Zero: Maverick Hunter

by Tardispilot297

While struggling to adjust to a now peaceful life on Earth, Zero decides to take Chaud Blaze on as his student, training him in the ways of the Maverick Hunters to help him prepare for a special tournament in Las Vegas, Nevada where a special someone from Chaud's past will be competing. Meanwhile Zero is being hunted by an evil scientist bent on obtaining his power. Note: Ep.3 up!

2. Chapter 2

Episode 2: Having Each Other's Backs

Surprise guys, gals, and non-binary pals! Tardispilot297 here bringing you a new episode of Zero on a very special week! For which I mean my B-DAY week! WHOOOOOO! Now don't let this early posting discourage any of you, I'll still give special shoutouts for anyone who spots easter eggs from the first and this chapter as they come. And now with that said, ON WITH THE CHAPTER!

[Mountain range, night]

It's been several hours since I started following the bad guy's truck in the news van. I make sure not to follow too closely so as not to get spotted by them as we drive through some mountains. They eventually pull up to the front of a large ski resort while I park the van just a little ways away next to a large wooden sign. The words "IceCap Ski Resort" written in big yellow letters across it. I grab some binoculars out of the glove compartment and look through them to see the two agents step out of the truck and take a look around. I also whip out the small listening device and headset to listen in on their conversation. The lady agent, Ms. Madd starts talking to the other guy.

"Seriously, Zapp? You're telling me that the buyer wants to do the exchange in THIS place?"

"Yes, well he is the one who makes the rules here. Not us. Besides, as long as we get paid what does it really matter?"

Madd shrugs her shoulders as Zapp walks over to the back of the truck and opens up the trailer.

"Right then. Help me unload the robot and let's get him inside."

The two of them climb inside the trailer. After a few minutes I see them climb back out with each of them using what look like gravity guns to haul out a large metal box with see through energy walls out of the trailer. A currently unconscious Zero locked inside it. I watch them carry the box into the main building and walk out of sight. I lower the binoculars and take off the headset before letting out a small sigh. Alright, hang tight buddy. I'm coming for ya. I continue sitting in the van tapping my hand on the steering wheel. Definitely not feeling nervous or scared at all. Yeah, I can do this. I can totally do this. I may not be a warrior yet, but I still have the bravery of one. After all, I've been in waaay tougher scrapes than this and come back out A-OK.

And not just that time I helped save the city either. No, I mean some of the real gritty assignments I've taken on since first becoming a news cameraman. Heck, I daresay that I am without a doubt the best damn cameraman that has ever lived. I just need to remain calm, focused, and rely on my instincts. I'm prepared for this. Just like how I was prepared to cover that story about the ugliest dog in America or the one about the elderly pie eating contest. And let's not forget about the outdoor singles aerobics class last month…. Yeah, I am so incredibly unprepared for this.

[IceCap Ski Lodge, night]

I slowly begin to stir from my forced slumber. The sounds of whirring and buzzing coming into focus inside my audio receptors. I open my eyes to find myself confined inside some sort of metallic prison with walls of glowing green energy. The outside holds nothing but darkness as I stand and take in my new surroundings. I am however able to make out a few shapes thanks to my visual scans. Their walls, a floor, and a ceiling. Adorning one of the walls are a set of pointed antlers along with a number of decapitated animal heads. This place is no doubt a chamber filled to the brim with a number of various torture devices of nefarious design. I look forward and make out a lone figure sitting across from me in the shadows.

"I know not where it is you have taken me. However, I can assure you that no manner of dungeon or deep pit will be enough to break my spirit. I invite you to do your worst."

The figure raises one of their arms with a small device located in their hand. They push the button to activate it. Perhaps they intend to use electrical torture against me. I brace myself for the first volt to course through my body. Instead however the chamber becomes filled with light and illuminates everything around me. Instead of chains or torture devices, there is not but an assortment of comfortable looking furniture. Instead of cold and damp stone walls, there is a warm and roaring fire blazing within a cobblestone fireplace just behind me. And instead of the hallowing screams of prisoners, there is a soothing sound of music being played all around me. Overall, it is not quite what I was expecting.

"Oh, It is… actually quite nice."

"Damn right it is."

I turn back to the sitting figure revealed to be one of the assailants who attacked me. The Mad Woman. She sits on the large couch smiling and looking all around the room.

"You know, I always pictured living in a place just like this someday. Kinda like my partner Zapp used to. Guy's actually royalty, can you believe that? Some kinda Baron or Duke or something like that. Well anyway, I don't really know anything about skiing, but with a place like this, you can bet your shiny, metal behind that a girl like me can learn."

I know not what this "skeeing" skill is, but I am most certain that this woman will not live long enough to master it.

[Chaud's news van, night]

Come on man! You totally got this! All you gotta do is sneak inside, try not to get killed by the bad guy's sci-fi weapons, and then rescue your new robot best friend. Easy-Peasy. Nothing could possibly go wrong…. Then again, it might end up with me getting shot again. Or even worse. I mean sure I still have that pair of super gloves that Madd left behind, but is that really gonna be enough? No, stop it Blaze! Don't psych yourself out like that. Just think, what would Zero do in this type of situation? Obviously he'd come up with some kinda awesome rescue plan. And that's exactly what I'm gonna do!

[IceCap Ski Lodge, night]

Yes. My thoughts are beginning to come into focus. I am now visualizing my inevitable escape from this irksome confinement of mine. As well as the Mad woman's brutal and painful destruction with my own bare hands. The very imagery triggering hearty and glorious laughter from my mouth. Yes! The Mad woman walks up to my cage and looks at me laughing inside.

"Thinking amusing thoughts are we?"

I open my eyes and turn to her.

"That is correct. For I have just visualized myself snapping your arms from your body with the most satisfying crunch."

The woman smirks at me while resting her arm against a chair next to her.

"Is that right?"

She glances over the energy force field of the cage.

"Then it's a good thing that you're stuck inside that box there, big man"

She begins snickering at me until another voice shouts at her.

"What are you doing!?"

The Mad woman's laughter ceases as she turns around to face her comrade carrying the electricity rifle. The so-called Noble electrician.

"I told you NOT to talk to him!"

"He was the one talkin' to me first, Zapp!"

"Well stop talking back then, Madd."

"Fine by me. I'm gonna go find somewhere to just kick back and relax."

The Mad woman raises her hands up and begins to leave the room.

"After all, the job's done. And pretty soon we are about to be rolling in cash baby!"

The woman laughs while clapping her hands loudly as she leaves the room. The electrician however simply watches her and scoffs as he shakes his head disapprovingly.

"Perhaps I should've partnered up with Agent Match instead. He may have been a bit of a pyromaniac, but at least he knew how to act like a professional."

He then turns his gaze towards me and the two of us glare silently at one another. Out of the two of them, I'd say that this one is clearly the more formidable adversary. I am looking forward to crushing him upon my escape.

[Local liquor store, night]

It's a good thing I spotted this small store while I was tailing the truck. Now I can gather everything I need to enact my epic four step rescue plan!

Step One: Project Confidence, With a new badass pair of shades I stroll up in my cool ride and strut my stuff like the absolute boss that I am.

Step Two: Become One with the Shadows. Utilizing my expert ninja style acrobatics and cat-like reflexes, I sneak my way inside the building. I then use my van's set of jumper cables to short out the main fuse box thus killing power to the whole place. Under the cover of darkness I set an oil slick trap using actual motor oil. I then attract the attention of the crazy hot chick, utilizing my wicked powers of seduction, and make her slide across the slickness of my deception while also using my slick moves to incapacitate her.

Step Three: Lock n' Load. Using some dental floss, I repel down through the ventilation system and enter the room where Zero is being held from above. And with a combination of hairspray and a small lighter, I sneak up and cook the electricity guy's goose. Hehehe, that's gonna be awesome.

And finally, Step Four: The Grand Finale. In which I break Zero out, carry him in my arms running down the hall, jump from the balcony into an epic spinning front flip through the air, land safely on the ground, and that's when Zero acknowledges me as a truly amazing Maverick Hunter. Then, as is his clan's tradition, we celebrate our victory with an epic bro hug with fireworks lighting up the sky overhead in the background.

Oh yeah. It's all coming together.

"Will there be anything else, sir?"

The voice of the cashier bot on the other side of the counter snaps me out of my fantasy after hugging the supplies in my arms for the past several minutes. I clear my throat and awkwardly place the items on the counter. I then address the robotic employee with the coolest sounding voice I can muster.

"I'll also have a blueberry/cherry Icee, and some wild berry Skittles."

The robot hands me the last two items on my list and I pay for everything with my Capital One credit card. I then walk out of the store while confidently slurping on my Icee. Just hang tight a little longer, brochacho! I'm coming to get ya!

[IceCap Ski Lodge, night]

"Oh yes, Your screams of pain and agony shall be like music to my ears, while I grind your bones into dust, and–"

Oh dear lord, this oafish robot truly loves to hear the sound of his own voice doesn't he? And I thought Madd was irritating to be around. I clear my throat to get him to finally shut up even for a brief moment.

"Pardon me good sir. I'm so dreadfully sorry to interrupt you, but are you quite finished?"

The robot ceases talking and glares at me before slamming his fist against the energy barrier of the box and shouting his answer.

"NO!"

A brief silence falls between us as he continues glaring at me.

"All right. Now, I am finished."

Oh thank god. I don't know if I could bear another second of his obnoxious ramblings. I take a small breath in and out through my nose and lean forward a bit in my seat in front of him. I believe that now it's about time he heard me talk for a few moments.

"You know, we haven't exactly had the opportunity to properly get to know one another quite yet. The truth of it is, I am actually quite an avid enthusiast of your lifestyle."

Zero looks at me with a deep scowl.

"What could a pathetic being like you think to know about my life of battle and journeys across the galaxy?"

I stand up while brushing down my suit to walk along the energy barrier.

"Oh come now. I practically know everything there is to know about you, Zero. Studying beings like yourself, who you are, what you can do, and most importantly… where you come from. You see, that was all part of my job. What I lived for you might say."

I pace back and forth in front of the box.

"So I see. Then you no doubt know about my clan's victories over the treacherous Dr. Wily and vile Xander Payne!"

"But of course."

"Then surely you understand that if I can destroy villains as dangerous and powerful as them, that I can most easily destroy someone as weak and powerless as you."

I stop pacing and turn around to look directly at him. The sheer arrogance in his tone is almost enough to make me break out into a small chuckle.

"Is that truly what you believe? That I am in fact nothing. That I myself am no one of consequence when compared to the likes of the infamous Albert Wily and Xander Payne. Well, then allow me to assure you, that you sir are most definitely, and most direly incorrect."

I lean in closer as my grin widens across my face.

"For you see, while I know practically everything there is to know about you, I absolutely promise you that you know next to nothing about me. But once this is all over and done with, you will."

I smile silently at him as he just stares back seemingly unfazed by my little declaration. It hardly matters to me whether he believes my words. After all, in just a few short hours, I'm going to restore my family fortune ten times over. At which point I shall finally return to my place within high society as Count Jack Elecitel! And not one single person, man or machine, is going to stand in my way!

(POV Change)

I drive up to the very front of the ski lodge and park the van. This is it. I'm all geared up, and ready to rock and roll! I step out of the van, put on my shades, lay out my assorted tools, slip on the robo-gloves, and stand proud and tall. The only thing left is to put on the most epic heroic rescue soundtrack of all time. And I just so happen to have it queued up on the spotify app on my phone. I bring the glove up to hit the play button. Let's do this! I tap the screen…. I tap the screen…. IIIII TAP THE SCREEN…. Why isn't it playing? I look over at my phone and tap it again. Apparently the glove isn't touchscreen enabled. Well, crap. That's terribly inconvenient.

Okay, no problem. I'll just use the tip of my nose to play the music. I move my face over the screen to try and hit play with my nose. An act that I eventually succeed in. Hell yeah! Until I look back at the screen and discover that I clicked the wrong song. Instead of "Don't Stop Me Now by Queen" I had selected "I Gotta Be Me by Sammy Davis JR." At first I try desperately to change it, but then decide to just screw it and roll with it. Okay, here we go. It's hunter time. I slam the two metal gloves together. An act that I soon immediately regret. Because the moment the two make contact, it activates a huge burst of energy that sends me flying backwards off my feet through the air. It also launches the motor oil up off the ground which spills all over the place and through the open window onto the pile of fireworks stashed in the back of the van. The lighter also goes flying with the can of hairspray. Both of which collide with each other on the ground and ignite the trail of oil leading into the van and set off the fireworks. I lay on the ground covering my head from the fiery explosion and look up disappointedly at the fireworks display going off in the van.

And those were supposed to be for the grand finale. That totally sucks. During this whole thing I fail to notice Madd and Zapp, who obviously heard the loud commotion from inside, come out onto the balcony and watch in surprised confusion at my van blowing up in front of me. They also of course notice me and become even more confused.

"Hey, Zapp! Isn't that the idiot from the bowling alley?"

Now obviously I couldn't hear them but I can imagine that's what was said about me. Pretty soon the fireworks die down and everything goes quiet again. I take a good long look at the van, praying beyond hope that it was somehow okay even after all that. Despite the small amount of smoke coming from inside, it still looks okay to drive safely. Oh thank god, maybe my luck's changing for the better? The inside then immediately catches fire and is completely engulfed in a matter of seconds. I slump my shoulders in defeat. Well, serves me right for trying to be optimistic. And it only gets worse when I hear a shout from behind me.

"You again!"

I quickly turn around and stand up to see Madd and Zapp looking down at me. I straighten up my posture and try to put on my best tough guy act.

"Uh, Yeah! That's right! It's me again! And I'm here for the big red guy!"

Aw yeah. Nailed it. My act is short lived however when I start hearing a beeping sound coming from one of the gloves.

"Wait, what's that beeping noise? Is it supposed to be making that noise?"

I look over the glove and see a red flashing button on the wrist. Huh, I didn't see that button before. Wonder what it do- I quickly find out when I press it and start getting pulled along the ground screaming by a jet booster built into the glove. Madd and Zapp just stand there watching as I get pulled back and forth across the ground and then up into the air. I can honestly say that I have never been more terrified in my entire life. Well except for this one time when I was a kid, but that's not important right now. I go flying through the air and end up crashing through a window just above Madd and Zapp and crash somewhere inside the lodge. Well, things didn't go quite as I had planned, but I made it inside nonetheless.

(POV Change)

I have absolutely no idea what the hell just happened. One minute I'm chilling out in a swank bedroom. The next thing I know, there's this loud explosion going off outside. And when me and Zapp go out on the balcony to check it out we find the same idiot from before crouching in fear in front of a van blowing up before he goes flying around screaming like a little girl and crashing somewhere inside.

Frankly, I'm not sure whether to be astonished or annoyed. Actually scratch that. I'm definitely annoyed. I look over at Zapp and straighten up my tie.

"You stay put and guard the robot. I'll take care of the idiot."

I turn around and head back inside. I follow the vapor trail left by my glove until I end up inside the lunch area of the lodge. I look around the room but find no trace of the idiot. I do however find one of my gloves on the floor making a hissing noise before powering back down. I take another look around and feel a big smile form on my face. Might as well have a bit of fun with this guy before I smash in his stupid face. I start walking slowly toward my glove putting on my best Glinda the Good Witch impersonation.

Come out, come out wherever you are

I scan along the room for any signs of movement.

When I get my hands on you, You'll see nothing but stars

I eventually step up to my glove and reach down to pick it up off the floor. I put it on and power it back up as it expands and closes over my arm and flex my metal fingers. I close the hand into a fist and put it against the palm of my other hand. I stand there silently breathing in and out until I spot something out of the corner of my eye. I slowly turn around and look directly at the idiot trying to blend in among some display dummies wearing winter clothes. As soon as we make eye contact he lets out a high-pitched yelp and ducks down behind the pedestal. Oh he is just adorable. Almost makes me not want to brutally beat him to death. Keyword being almost. I start to walk over just as he starts crawling on all fours in an attempt to get away. Exactly how I prefer all my little boy toys. On all fours and whimpering like little babies. Just as I'm about to catch up to him he starts crawling underneath a bunch of tables. Tables which I quickly toss out of the way one by one.

Until finally I reach under and grab one of his legs to pull him screaming out and throw him across the room into a small display of polar bear plushies. Watching him turn over and struggle to get back up just makes me feel so giddy that I can't help but start laughing at the sight of him. I slowly walk over to him as he desperately tries throwing plushies at me with very little success.

"Say, did I ever tell you about all the time I spent in the international underground fight league?"

He looks at me with desperation written all over his cute little face.

"You and I literally just met a few hours ago."

"See I spent most of my life participating in bare-knuckle cage fights and back alley brawls all over the world."

I slowly stomp my foot onto a plushie causing it to let out a long little squeak. The idiot soon backs himself up against an ice cream cooler and cowers into a ball like a scared little mouse. Of course I didn't want the fun to end just yet.

"Oh no no no no. Don't spoil things just yet gorgeous."

I reach down and grab him by the shirt collar and lift him off the floor before slamming him down onto the plexiglass display case. He lays there groaning in pain as I walk along to one side of the machine. I then charge up my glove and deliver a heavy punch to the cooler, sending it sliding and spinning across the room crashing through chairs and tables as he starts screaming again in terror. Man, this is fun.

(POV Change)

Well, it sounds like Madd is having quite a jolly good time. I almost feel sorry for the poor sod she's torturing. I look over at Zero with a cheeky smile.

"It would appear that your little rescue isn't going quite as well as you'd hoped, now isn't it?"

Zero looks between me and the direction of the noise and screaming.

"No. It certainly does not."

"Such a terrible shame."

Zero only growls in response.

"I do hope that you're sitting comfortably in there?"

I barely wait a few seconds for a response.

"Oh, you're not? Well nevermind then."

I allow myself a little giggle at my clever wordplay and get back to listening to the chaotic symphony coming from the other room. Of course I do wish that Madd would just stop playing around and get on with it already.

(POV Change)

Things are most definitely not going according to plan. Especially with this female psychopath throwing me around like a ragdoll and spinning me around on an improvised top across the room. A top which finally stops and tosses me back down onto the floor feeling dizzy. I try to stand up only to fall back down due to everything still spinning around in circles. When everything finally slows down I feel so relieved. A feeling which quickly vanishes when I look up to see that crazy chick looking down at me snickering with a sadistic smile on her face.

She reaches down with her gloved hand and grabs me by the throat. She lifts me back off the floor, choking me out as I start gasping for air. She moves her face close to mine still snickering evilly as she watches the life drain out of my eyes. Funny, I always wanted to die staring into the fiery gaze of an attractive woman. I just wish it was a lot less painful. Just when I think that my number's up I start to hear this buzzing sound like a phone going off. Madd's expression then goes from sadistic to slightly annoyed as she loosens her grip on my throat. She reaches for her back pocket and takes out a phone and looks at the screen. She lets out a loud sigh.

"I'm sorry, I need to take this. Can you gimme just a quick sec?"

Is she being effing serious right now!? On second thought, best not to look a gift horse in the mouth.

"No, no. by all means. Please take your time."

"See, it's my mom. And you know, she worries if I don't pick up when she calls."

"Oh hey, yeah totally get that."

Madd gets ready to answer but then to my horror she stops and turns back to me.

"Ohhh, it's actually a video call. Do you think I should answer anyway or let go to voicemail?"

Oh dear sweet zombie Jesus no.

"Yeah, I think you should go ahead and answer it."

"You think so?"

"Yeah, like you said she'll be worried."

"Yeah, you're right. In that case could you possibly? You know?"

I do not hesitate to play along with whatever she has in mind if it means staying alive.

"Hey, no problem. Whatever you need."

"Gee, thanks a lot. I really appreciate this."

"Hey, it's my pleasure."

She moves the glove from my neck to my shoulder and holds the phone up to our faces with her thumb over the accept call button.

"Okay. Here we go. Just act casual."

I nod my head as she hits the button. On the screen an image of a middle aged woman appears. Madd starts putting on a friendly smile as well as a bubbly personality.

"Hi, mom. Hey–"

Once again, this woman scares me. I look at the phone as her mom replies back to her.

"Well it's about time you answered your phone young lady. I have been trying to call you."

"Yes. Yes, I know that you've been calling. I've been meaning to call back. It's just that I've been a little busy right now."

Madd's mom looks over at me through the phone.

"Wait, who's that with you?"

Madd glances over at me.

"Oh! Um, well I've been meaning to tell you. You see this is my new boyfriend, um…."

"Chaud Blaze"

"Yes, right. This is my new boyfriend Chaud Blaze. Babe, this is my mom."

"Hi there. Nice to finally meet you, Mrs.-"

I quickly whisper to Madd.

"What's your last name?"

"Iroaya"

"Hi, Mrs. Iroaya."

"Oh! Well this really is a surprise. And he's so handsome. Much more so than the last boy you went out with."

Madd starts chuckling nervously.

"Yeah, he's a real cutie all right."

"Wait, you think I'm cute?"

Madd's grip on my shoulder suddenly tightens causing me to wince in pain. Her face says laughter but her eyes say murder. I silently begin apologizing until her grip finally loosens up. She turns back to the phone.

"So listen, Mom. I'm gonna have to call you back later, ok?"

Her mom smiles at her and waves.

"Alright, then Maddison. I love you."

"Yeah, love you too mom."

"It was lovely to finally meet you Chad."

"Yeah, it was nice to meet you too."

We all exchange quick goodbyes before Madd finally ends the call and puts her phone back in her pocket. She lets out a heavy sigh. And then proceeds to place her gloved hand back on my neck.

"Sorry about that."

"Hey, it's cool. She seems really sweet."

I start gagging in-between words.

"Again thank you so much for doing that. It was really cool of you."

"Anytime."

"Now, where was I?"

"Uhh, you were telling me about how you horrifyingly ripped some guys' arms off."

Madd snaps her fingers at me and smiles.

"Yeah, right. And you see that is precisely why I decided to sign up with Bastion. So that I could get paid beating the living snot out of superpowered freaks like your little robot friends."

Wait, holy shit these guys are Bastion agents!? I thought Bastion was supposed to be the good guys? Least that's what I came to understand from Proto-Man's explanation of them.

"And now, I don't have to play by the rules anymore."

Madd goes back to cackling like an insane person and squeezes my neck harder. I desperately feel around for something to help get me out of this. At this point, I'll take anything. Until finally I grab what feels like a bottle in my hand. I glance down to see that the bottle is one filled with hot sauce. Well, if this chick ain't playing by the rules…

"Then neither am I."

I bring the bottle up to her face and squeeze for dear life. A large spurt of it splashing her directly in the eyes. Madd screams in pain and finally lets go to try and wipe the sauce out of her eyes. I start cackling mockingly at her as she walks backwards and slips on a broken dish on the floor. She falls backwards landing on a metal food cart which I quickly kick hard against. The cart goes rolling at top speed across the room until it suddenly stops sending her flying through a glass window onto the floor on the other side knocking her out cold. Holy crap, that actually worked! I clutch my neck gasping heavily for air. I have never in my life come so close to death. That was way worse than when I got shot!

(POV Change)

Upon seeing his comrade lying defeated on the floor in front of him, The Electrician raises his weapon with an aura of fear cascading off his body. Good, he has every right to be afraid. He attempts to hide it but his quieter, higher-pitched tone of voice only shows further proof of his growing fear.

"Just who exactly are you working with?"

I look at him and answer his query full of confidence and pride.

"The man for which you are facing is my student and protege. A being so powerful of body, mind, and spirit that your final breaths will be filled with only pleas for mercy from the proud Maverick Hunter who is known as…. Chaud!"

As I speak these words, my student steps forth through the hole and stands tall like the warrior he has been trained to become. Never have I felt such pride as a teacher until just this very moment. That is until he starts panting heavily and nearly keels over like a newborn Kandarian Fluffle Bear. He holds out his hand and raises an index finger towards us.

"Sorry, just… gimme a minute here."

He takes a few more deep breaths and manages to stand back up still a bit breathless. He points his thumb to the hole behind himself.

"Just threw down pretty hard a minute ago. Honestly, you should see the other guy. Or technically the other girl I guess."

He turns around and finally sees The Mad woman he bested in combat lying on the floor closeby him.

"Oh. Wait, you can. There she is."

The Electrician turns back to me. Only instead of fear, his expression and aura is now one of confusion. In all honesty, I can actually understand that given Chaud Blaze's unorthodox entrance. Still, he is doing quite well for a hunter in training.

"Are you having a laugh? You mean to tell me that this is your proud Maverick Hunter? I half expected him to have died at this point in time."

I shrug my shoulders in his direction.

"It is but his first day."

The Electrician turns to Chaud who clears his throat and regains strength within his voice.

"Look, I get that I might not look like your usual maverick hunter, but to be fair you guys don't look much like hunters either."

Ah. He is now attempting to use his words to crush his enemy's morale. A cunning strategy indeed, Chaud Blaze. Well done. He gestures between the woman and the Electrician.

"I mean, for one thing SHE looks like a sexy female cross between a villain from Totally Spies and Powerpuff Girls, and YOU look like a crazed Bob Barker lookalike for a B-class version of The Price is Right."

I do not understand anything of what he has just said, but they sound like what Axel refers to as "Solid Burns". The so-called Bob Barker however does not appear to be insulted by such claims.

"Why thank you very much."

He then raises his weapon and aims it directly at Chaud Blaze.

"Now then, just before you die, tell me this. What exactly does a pathetic little simpleton such as yourself want with this particular robot?"

Chaud looks between his gun, him, and then to me. He lets out a quiet sigh and balls up his fist which is covered with one of The Mad woman's gauntlets. A battle trophy no doubt. He turns back to his opponent and smirks proudly.

"We're gonna go to Vegas and win a bowling tournament together."

He raises his fist and prepares to throw the first punch. It is truly a proud moment for any teacher who bears witness to their student crushing their much weaker opponent in glorious single combat. However the gauntlet flies off his arm as it fully extends and roars toward… Wait, why does it appear to be getting closer to me? Oh no. In the briefest of moments, the gauntlet collides with the energy barrier of my cage and triggers a massive explosion of energy. A bright flash fills the entire room and blinds me temporarily. As my vision slowly returns I discover my prison destroyed along with the wall that was behind me. I also feel a strange sensation. As if something is attempting to poorly squeeze the life out of me. I quickly discover what it is and my expression turns sour with slight annoyance and discomfort.

"Chaud Blaze, what is it that you think you are doing?"

I glance down to see my great and powerful student with his arms wrapped around my waist like a child embracing its mother.

"I'm giving you a brohug, as is your clan's celebratory and sacred tradition?"

I grumble in response to his explanation. Maverick Hunters within my clan do not "brohug".

"You have exactly three seconds to remove your arms from my body before I remove them from yours."

Chaud Blaze emits a small EEP sound like a mandossian mouse and immediately releases his hold on my waist. We both step away from each other and look around what's left of the room we reside in. Lying unconscious on the floor are both The Electrician and The Mad woman. It is rather unfortunate that they somehow managed to survive the explosion. Nevertheless, we cannot afford to remain here any longer. I turn back to my student.

"Come Chaud Blaze, we must leave this place at once."

He nods his head in agreement with my instruction.

"Yeah, we should definitely get outta here before these two wake up."

He turns and heads straight for the hole in the wall made by the explosion. At last, a wise decision on his part. We both walk up to the hole and look down to see the incredible height that we find ourselves at. Chaud looks down and gasps in fear.

"Oh! Ohhhh yeah, Nope!"

His hesitation is understandable. As a fleshy human, it is unlikely that he could survive a jump from this height. Very well, as his teacher, the task of our escape falls to me. I turn to Chaud to reassure him with my calm words.

"No matter what happens next, do not let go."

Chaud looks at me confused.

"Don't let go? What's that supposed to mean?"

I turn and take a few steps away from the ledge. I take a deep breath in and quickly turn back around running at full speed towards Chaud and launch us both through the hole. As we fall through the air, Chaud screams loudly while taking hold of my shoulders. The ground below racing closer and closer as we descend quickly. Until at last the compartments in my lower back and legs open allowing the thruster jets to fire and allow us to move upward and across the sky. Chaud holds on tight and gasps in shock at seeing us going up instead of down. Then he begins laughing and shouting in excitement.

"We're alive! Holy crap, Zero! We're alive!"

He continues to laugh and cheer as we soar through the air. Obviously we would still live. Did he honestly believe I would so easily jump off a cliff without a means to ensure our continued survival? It does not matter. Soon we shall be safely on the ground below. I then hear Chaud shout a question at me.

"Hey Zero, why didn't you tell me you could fly!?"

I shout back my reply.

"Because I cannot. I can boost."

I hear a confused noise come from Chaud. I quickly clear up his confusion.

"And only across very short distances."

At these words my boost jets quickly shut down with their compartments closing back up allowing us to fall again towards the ground. I go into a rolling spin and land expertly on my feet onto the ground below. Chaud on the other hand falls flailing and streaming into a large metal container filled with trash. I stand up and turn to see Chaud groaning and coughing as he climbs out of the trash container.

"Owww. Okay, that really hurt."

He falls to the ground and turns over onto his back as I walk over to look down upon him. His expression dazed as his vision begins to clear up from the fall. He looks up calling my name in a groggy tone of voice. Unfortunately now is not the time for rest.

"Rise, Chaud Blaze! We are still in danger. We must move quickly!"

Chaud manages to quickly sit up as I scan the area for a mode of transportation for which to make our escape from this location. I soon discover a black truck waiting a few feet away. I reach down and help Chaud to his feet as I point the way to our escape chariot. He shakes his head and finally returns to his senses.

"Sweet ride."

Indeed it is. We run towards it without fail and make our way inside. Chaud sits behind the wheel while I take what humans refer to as "shotgun". I turn to Chaud to give him his next instruction.

"Now, drive us out of here."

To my confusion he simply turns to me looking unsure. Perhaps even slightly irritated.

"Oh yeah? And how am I supposed to do that without any keys?"

Ah. Of course. In my haste I neglected to recall that earth vehicles require activation via a slot under the wheel to transfer energy into. An easy thing to forget. I quickly plunge my finger into the slot to transfer some of my own energy and turn it slightly to activate the vehicle which soon roars to life. I pull my finger back out and sit back into my seat. Chaud looks on in slight surprise before nodding his head.

"That works too."

He places both hands on the wheel and proceeds to stomp his foot down on the pedal to drive us away from here. A few hours of driving later Chaud lets out a deep tired sigh.

"Man, I don't know about you, but I'm starving."

Hmm. Now that I have had a few moments of silence I too find myself in need of sustenance.

"As am I. We must find food for ourselves."

Chaud nods his head in agreement. I am just about to tell him to stop the vehicle so that I may hunt down a local beast to cook for our meal when he looks over at a building ahead of us and brightens the expression on his face.

"I think I may have found just the place."

I look ahead with curiosity and spot a large yellow sign with red glowing letters that reads "Sonic". A peculiar name for a food tavern. However, if Chaud believes this is where we shall find sustenance for our journey, then Sonic it is. In no time I sit at our table outside under a set of bright lights as Chaud brings over our food. His mood greatly improved.

"You know, bud. I'd say after all that running we did that you and I deserve a little celebratory feast."

He lays the two food trays out onto the table. One in front of myself and one in front of him. I find the assortment laid out before to be rather unappetizing looking to say the least.

"The only things that I eat are grapes and Ranch Pringles."

Chaud looks at me with slight surprise and understanding.

"You know in a way that actually explains so much about your behavior."

I am unable to understand the meaning of his words. He gestures back to the food in front of me.

"Come on, don't knock it till you try it."

I look back to the food on my tray and pick up the first item. I believe that these are what humans call "Bergers". I shrug my shoulders and proceed to take the first bite. I chew it slowly to become accustomed to the new flavors in my mouth. I actually find the combination of meat, cheese, assorted vegetables, and different sauces to be rather enjoyable. I utter a small Mmm noise which earns a nod of approval from Chaud.

"See? Tastes good right?"

I must admit that these earth "bergers" are an excellent source of sustenance. Chaud reaches for his own food and begins to eat as well. Speaking in-between bites.

"So anyway, I was thinking about how I rescued you earlier during the drive."

I pause my next bite to give Chaud my full attention.

"Just on a scale of one to epic hunter, how would you choose to rate my performance?"

I stare at him silently with only a subtle growl as a response.

"Okay, no big deal. We can discuss that after we eat. For now let's just enjoy our little victory feast, huh?"

Is that truly what he believes that was back there? I feel my frustration slowly rising.

"You call what just happened a victory? We have won nothing this night!"

Chaud looks at me and shrugs his shoulders.

"I mean, technically we won a little something."

My frustration rises ever slightly further.

"In the last few hours I have been captured due to your failures in battle, we were nearly killed at least a dozen times, and about the only reason that we were able to successfully survive any of it was pure luck. None of these events would be used as an example for victory. Especially not for a Maverick Hunter."

As Chaud listens to my description of tonight's events, he slowly nods his head in agreement of the outcome of each one of them.

"Alright, so maybe some of all that stuff did actually happen, but the thing is that you're looking at things from the wrong perspective here, Zero."

I raise an eyebrow at his reasoning. What part of any of what I have just said could be seen as a misinterpretation?

"See, my dad used to tell me to take any win you can in life. And above all, enjoy it to the fullest."

Hmm. Actually there is a modicum of wisdom within those words.

"Now I'm not sure how a real Maverick Hunter would see it, but I personally think that at least Nine outta ten of them would call what happened tonight a true victory. It might've not looked pretty, but that doesn't necessarily mean that it wasn't a…"

"Glorious Triumph!"

"Exactly! Now you're getting it!"

Yes. It all makes sense to me now. Throughout the history of the Maverick Hunters there have always been battles then ended in both victory and defeat. However, some battles, no matter how unorthodox or strange, are still fought and won by the hunters who take part in them. Yes, our victory tonight was not won by standard maverick hunter battle tactics, but it was a victory without question! Perhaps over the course of our journey together Chaud and I might just learn a few more things from one another.

[IceCap Ski Lodge, night]

This cannot be happening right now! Just as we were so close to closing the deal it all blows up in our faces by some small town hooligan! I violently kick open the doors with a loud growl to allow myself and Madd to walk through back outside. I just cannot believe that this is all happening right now.

"This whole thing is beyond buggered!"

"Yeah, this really sucks. So much for getting paid."

I stop in my tracks and turn towards Madd.

"What are going on about?"

"Well I mean what's left for us to do? The Bot's gone. So that means the deal's off."

Oh my god. She can't be serious right now.

"No! You don't understand! The deal is in no way off!"

She looks at me confused.

"What are you talking about? We lost the robot. So we have to back out."

I slowly start to panic as I try to make things more clear to her.

"You don't get it do you? There is no backing out! Especially not with him! For the past several weeks we have been secretly selling weapons and technology to one of the world's largest and most dangerous criminal organizations, a group that makes the likes of the Emerald Spears look like bloody cub scouts, and led by a complete and absolute sociopath! A man that we are now screwing over on a deal we made with him!"

My voice takes on a slight mocking tone as if to illustrate Madd's naive stupidity.

"We can't just take our little toys and go straight home! If we show up empty handed to him, He is absolutely going to murder us! And without a doubt in a very gruesome and terrifying way!"

I pant heavily as I allow Madd a moment to let everything I just said sink in. Judging by her nervous expression I dare say she's finally got the picture.

"Okay, yeah. That definitely doesn't sound so hot."

No. As a matter of fact it doesn't.

"Not great for us. At all!"

Right now we need to get both the robot and the buffoon back. And we need to do it as quickly as possible.

"We need to find them, before He finds us."

The only question is, how the hell do we exactly do that? I start pondering for a solution when Madd's eyes widen and she taps my arm to get my attention.

"Hey! I think I might have an idea."

Oh great. Now we really are screwed. Then again a possibly bad idea is still better than having no idea at all. Let's just pray that whatever it is works.

[Sonic, night]

Zero and I continue eating when a small group of kids walks over to our table. One of them goes right up to Zero.

"Excuse me, Mr. Zero?"

Zero stops eating and turns to the kid with curiosity.

"Can we take a photo with you?"

Zero swallows the food still in his mouth.

"A Foto? What is this?"

I quickly jump in and explain the concept to him.

"It's basically a digital portrait they wanna make with you in it."

Zero looks between me and the kids for a few seconds until he seems to understand.

"Ah. A self portrait. Very well. You have my blessing, human child. Proceed."

The kids start to get in close around Zero. One of them hands their phone over to me.

"Hey, mister. Do you mind?"

I nod my head and take the phone.

"Sure. No prob."

I open the camera and hold the phone up to look at the group. I ask them each to strike a pose and say "Maverick Hunters". I push the button to take the picture.

"Yeah, that looks awesome. Hey you guys wanna take one with me too?"

The kids look at me confused.

"Who are you exactly?"

"Oh. I'm Chaud Blaze. I'm actually Zero's student."

They still look at me confused.

"Also helped Team Mega-Man save Silicon City?"

Still nothing but silence.

"Took down the leader of the Emerald Spears?"

Still confused silence. Okay now I'm starting to feel sorry for myself. I think even Zero recognizes how awkward this is getting.

"You know what? Nevermind. Here ya go."

I hand them back the phone as the kids smile and wave goodbye to Zero before walking away. To my surprise Zero smiles and waves back at them. Never would've taken him for the type to enjoy taking a pic with a few fans. Guess there's a lot more to the big guy than most people think. I turn back to my food until Zero looks over my way and asks me a question.

"Chaud Blaze, you desire to be a hunter. Yet you choose to remain in Silicon City. A place no longer filled with battles to wage or foes to fight. Why do you choose to remain in such a place?"

Wow. That's a deep question. I take a minute to think up a good answer for him.

"I suppose that I choose to stay in the city because… it's always felt like home."

Zero gives me a serious look as he leans in slightly.

"And you are certain of this?"

"Well, yeah. I mean, there's gotta be a place like that somewhere for you, right?"

Zero leans back with his gaze to the ground. His face almost looks sad.

"From The day my clan was lost, I traveled across almost every corner of the galaxy."

He looks up at the stars hanging overhead.

"I have seen planets and stars the likes of which a humanoid like you could only dream of. But through all that time, there has never been one place that I could truly call home."

Zero looks back down at the ground. So this whole time he's traveled across the stars and never once felt like he'd found a home? Man, that's gotta be rough. Even for a tough space robot like him.

"That must be pretty tough for you, huh?"

Zero closes his eyes and slowly nods his head.

"Yes. It has."

Dang. I want to give him a hug but I'm worried he might threaten to rip my arms off again. Zero opens his eyes and lifts his head up looking more confident than he was just earlier.

"I made a solemn promise to my fellow hunters to find the Andromeda Key and to protect it. And that shall continue to be my goal until my dying breath. When I eventually join my people within the great battlefield in the sky."

Wow. That sounds pretty heavy. Also what the heck is an Anthromeeda Key?

"One thing that I have truly learned in pledging my life to this honorable task is that I have been betrayed again and again and again."

"Damn dude. Now that really does suck. Sorry you went through that."

"You are aware of this feeling as well, are you not? A feeling of deep betrayal."

I nod my head. Yeah, I definitely know how that feels.

"Specifically by your own father, who abandoned you like a piece of common scrap metal."

"Okay, ouch. But I get what you're saying. Thanks."

The two of us exchange looks.

"Well, hunter or not, I'm definitely strong enough to know that I would never do anything to betray a friend."

Zero smiles and nods his head at me.

"You are much stronger than you realize, Chaud Blaze."

I shrug my shoulders and scoff.

"I mean, I did technically take a bullet for a friend a little while ago…"

"I do not mean just that. In fact if I were to rate you on a scale from one to epic hunter, I would say you are a four."

"Wait, no kidding?"

Zero shakes his head. Wow. I think I might just add that to my dating profile on Tinder. Chaud Blaze. A solid four. I'm aware of how that sounds but I don't care right now. I'm into it! We finish up our food and proceed to hit the road. Along the way I turn on the radio which starts playing The Touch by Stan Bush. And I think this time Zero really gets into the music because the two of us start bobbing our heads to the beat. He's even laughing and cheering alongside me and telling me to crank up the volume. I feel like we're really starting to bond as best friends. We continue to rock out until the music gets cut off by a radio announcer. An announcer that talks about a huge manhunt for some guy named Chaud Blaze. Huh, what a weird coincidence. Somebody with the same name as m– Wait, SAY WHAT NOW!? I turn the volume up to max on the radio.

"I repeat, Authorities have a nationwide manhunt for a man by the name of Chaud Blaze. There is currently a one million dollar bounty on him. And frankly if I was this Blaze guy? I'd be on my knees praying right now. Because as it currently stands, he is royally scre–"

The broadcast is interrupted by Zero smashing his fist into the radio. Seriously, he just loves doing that doesn't he? Wait, no that's not important right now! What is important is that I am now apparently a wanted fugitive! How could this have happened? I mean we didn't do anything illegal right? All we did was go to a bowling alley that got trashed. Broke into a ski resort that we blew up. And also stole some guy's tru…..Okay actually yeah we have done at least some pretty illegal stuff. Okay, just don't panic. It's only several thousand miles to Vegas. If we drive the whole way there without stopping, we should have no problem. Right. Just keep driving no matter what. The perfect plan.

"BLAZE!"

Zero's shout snaps me back awake just in time to avoid crashing into a semi-truck. Okay so maybe driving non-stop isn't such a good plan after all. I mean that's gotta be like the fourth or fifth time that I've fallen asleep behind the wheel and almost crashed into something. And that was just one night. Zero looks out the window at the sky now turning a light yellow.

"Dawn is upon us. We must find safe harbor."

On that we can both totally agree on.

"Somewhere that we may remain hidden and secure."

Yeah, but where? The only place I can think of between here and Vegas is….. Oh man. Now that is a scenario that I would very much like to avoid. Unfortunately we don't have a lot of options open to us at the moment.

"I actually know a place for us to lay low for a bit, but it's gonna involve going somewhere that I haven't been to in a very long time."

Zero stares at me with intense curiosity. A feeling that I sure as heck don't share. In what feels like a few short hours, we're both walking up to the white colored door and I reach out to ring the doorbell. I get this very bad feeling down in the pit of my stomach. I take a deep breath as I start to hear footsteps from inside coming towards the door. The door opens up and there she stands. She's still wearing the same maroon sandals, green dress, and a purple shirt with a white stripe and a yellow lining on top of the stripe. Just like she always does. Her skin of course is a slightly lighter tan, and she has her brown hair shorter now than it used to be. Just about to her ears. As soon as she sees me she gasps in surprise as I hold my arms out to her. I then finally work up the nerve to actually say something.

"Hiya, Mom. I'm home."

At my greetings her eyes nearly roll to the back of her head as she falls back and faints onto the floor. Ohhh boy. Well, so far so good I guess.

GASP! WHAT A TWIST! Now I'm not gonna lie, I am having SO much fun adapting this story for you all. Of course the next chapter will be a bit tricky if some of you have seen the original this story is based off of, but hey, I've never backed down from a challenge before! Anyway I hope that you all enjoyed reading this surprise posting and are looking forward to seeing where I take this story next.

And now, replies to story reviews!

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So everybody until next time, this is Tardispilot297 saying… ALLONSY!