Chapter Sixteen: Exposition.

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Mobster Marion and Master Revolver walked into the Misneach compound, towards the large group of about 100 men and women, all loyal to the Death Valley Mobsters.

“Hello our loyal followers.” Master Revolver spoke, silencing the crowd.

“You've probably noticed, but there seems to be a disease rampant in Pleasantville. That sickness is the Noble Knights of the Last Order and their little pals Chuckles and Giggles!” Mobster Marion began.

“It's time we fixed what has been wronged. Ever since the birth of Pleasantville the Death Valley Gang and the Mobsters of Misneach have ruled this city with an iron fist. The order MUST be restored.” Master Revolver punched his palm, inciting excitement amongst the group.

“That is why the Death Valley Mobsters have been born – because our word is law in this city, and they'd best not forget it!” Mobster Marion roared.

A great cheer went up.

“Tonight.” Master Revolver grinned. “Tonight, at midnight, we march on Pleasantville. Tonight, at midnight, we take back our city!”

The roar went up, and the two leaders grinned.

Those brats would pay.

–

Daniel grimaced. Sunny glared back. She quickly looked back over Daniels shoulder to Petunia, who nodded.

CRACK!

“MY LEG!” Daniel cried, limping away from the crease almost the moment the cricket ball hit his shin.

Meanwhile, Belle lifted one finger into the air. TJ and Sammy were furious.

“SHE DELIBERATELY AIMED FOR HIS LEG!”

“HOW CAN YOU GIVE THAT OUT?!”

Charlie watched the cricket game from the big tree, not particularly interested. He was filled with a mix of sadness and fury, both at his grand-father and himself. If he'd only been faster. If only his grand-father had just stayed home. If only he'd never donned the Chuckles costume. If only...if only...

It was no good thinking about what could have been, you couldn't change what had happened. You could only go forwards, and try not to make the same mistakes again.

Would he end up being as stubborn as his grand-father had been? Was he going to suffer a similar fate? Could Belle stop him, or would she end up failing like Joe had?

Or was he too much of a Begly? Would he end up like Grandpa Tim, who died peacefully in his sleep after saying good-bye to everyone?

It was doing his head in.

“Are you okay?” Belle was suddenly next to him. How long had he been thinking?

“No.” Charlie didn't see the point in lying to Belle. She'd know. She always knew.

She bent down and kissed his cheek. “It would have been the way he wanted to go, you know that.” She looked towards the creek. “Maybe I was wrong to try and stop him from joining us.”

“He still would have died.” Charlie pointed out. “And he wouldn't have changed anything. You saw that when Revolver and Marion were in gaol – Demon came to take their place.”

“I guess so. All we can do is try to keep them under control.” Belle sighed. “You're still going to try, right?”

Charlie looked up at the sky through the leaves of the tree. A tree that was over one hundred years old. A friendship that was over 500 years old. In all those centuries, not once had anyone given up.

Grandpa Charles hadn't given up.

“Of course.” Charlie looked up as his best friend fondly. “I won't let this stop me.”

“You won't try to get revenge on Demon will you?” Belle asked. “I will stop you if you try to kill him.”

“I won't. I might be his grand-son, but I'm not him.” Charlie reassured her.

She smiled at him. He smiled back.

“So who won the cricket game?” Charlie asked.

“No one. It turned into a brawl and Dad sent everyone home to cool off. They'll be back for dinner.” Belle giggled.

“You really shouldn't have paid that LBW.”

“Technically it WAS there.”

“You just like stirring.”

“I do.”

“Are you two going to come in for lunch?” Bill called from Belles room.

“Just a minute Uncle Bill!” Belle called back. She turned to Charlie.

“You're gonna be okay. I'll make sure of it.” She said.

“I know.” Charlie replied. It hurt, it would always hurt, but there was a light at the end of the tunnel now, the wound was going to heal.

The pair made their way inside where Bill had made a big pot of stew for lunch. Thomas, Betty, Izzy and Lizzy were there, and Woof was sitting with Meow.

Charlie looked at his mother, who looked away. He guessed that she'd never be able to fully forgive what had happened. He also guessed his sisters felt the same way.

A shame.

The meal was still pleasant enough, Bill and Peter soon got into a fight about the price of oil in Chyna, Betty rolled her eyes, Thomas laughed, the twins ate in silence and Belle, Charlie and Joe had an in-depth discussion about cricket.

It was a fun afternoon, especially when the rest of the Knights came back over and the group headed out to Lake Pleasant for a swim. Charlie could almost ignore the lingering pain in his heart.

–

It was late that night, and Belle was deep in sleep. She always slept well, even as a baby (pneumonia withstanding, then again I wouldn't expect anyone to sleep well with pneumonia). The three walls that bordered her bed always made her feel secure, and crawling in the end of her bed never bothered her.

She was snuggled into one of the corners, snoring peacefully, Meow purring away against her back, when suddenly she was woken up to Charlie shaking her.

“Get up! Something's not right!” He hissed.

“Go back to bed Charlie, it's 11.30 and I'm tired.” Belle rolled over. Meow glared at her before retreating to another corner at the foot of the bed.

“But Belle-,”

“Go. To. Sleep.” Belle mumbled. “You can even stay with me if you absolutely must.”

“BELLE!” Charlie whispered loudly in Belles ear.

“For the love of...WHAT?!” Belle snapped in hushed tones.

“Something's wrong. Will you do a patrol with me?” Charlie asked.

“NO.”

“C'mon Belle, I have a hunch.”

“A HUNCH?! You woke me up for a HUNCH?!” Belle was furious. Meow wasn't all too impressed either, and jumped off the end of the bed and headed out of the bedroom to go and sleep somewhere quieter!

“Belle, please, just come with me.” Charlie begged.

“Why haven't you hit your watch? If there's a problem, we're going to need everyone to help us.” Belle replied, irked that her sleep was interrupted.

“I don't want to wake up everyone just for a hunch.” Charlie replied.

“But you have no problem waking ME up?!”

“You're my best friend.”

“You're DEAD if we don't find anything.”

–

Chuckles felt nervous. Giggles was jabbing him in the back, and it was only a matter of time before the Lucky Seven Gun came out and he had no kneecaps left.

“We have been around the city TWICE. We have seen NOTHING.” Giggles growled. “You have thirty seconds to explain why I shouldn't eat you alive.”

“Because then you wouldn't have anyone to activate the Improbability Clause for you?” Chuckles tried. He knew the moment that he mentioned the Clause that he'd just signed his own death warrant.

It was only the sound of marching feet that saved him. Giggles grabbed him and flew him up to the top of a building.

“Is that...the DVG?” Giggles asked.

“There are WAY too many of them to be the DVG. And it's not the Mob either, they're all carrying handguns.” Chuckles looked down.

“Then WHO are they? Not Demons lot are they?” Giggles groaned. She hit the face of her watch, praying that at least one of the Knights was still awake enough to see it.

She looked down again and was horrirfied. Mobster Marion was walking hand-in-hand with Master Revolver!

“We are SO screwed!” Chuckles groaned. “If they're on the same page, Pleasantville is done for!”

Giggles stared at the pair, feeling helpless. Her hand dropped, hitting the Lucky Seven Gun on the way down.

She had a thought. She could take out the pair from where she was sitting. The Lucky Seven Gun could handle a bit of sniper action.

“Don't even think about disobeying the Code.” Chuckles warned in her ear. Giggles slapped herself mentally. How could she have even considered it?!

“We have to get them arrested again.” She whispered.

“Yeah.” Chuckles looked down. The Death Valley Mobsters were all standing in a formation, almost like an army. Master Revolver and Mobster Marion stood in front of them.

Suddenly Chuckles had an idea.

“We need to take out Master Revolver and Mobster Marion. If we can just hold them off until help arrives, we'll be fine!” He said.

“Not going to happen doofus. If we get into a fight with them, it's easily fifty to one. We'll be killed.” Giggles replied. Chuckles ignored her. “CHUCKLES!”

Chuckles leapt from the top of the building to a balcony below, and made his way down the building. Giggles groaned angrily and followed him down.

“Now, our loyal Mobsters, we are going to make this city pay for daring to try and defy – I'M TRYING TO GIVE A SPEECH HERE!” Master Revolver fumed as Chuckles landed in front of him.

“Let me handle this runt.” Mobster Marion glared at the newcomer to their little party. She charged at Chuckles and slashed downwards, but her sword was blocked by one of the Arm Scythes. Chuckles then swung back with the Lions Claw Blade, narrowly missing Mobster Marion but cutting off a fair chunk of Master Revolvers hair.

“What the-? DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG IT TOOK TO GROW THIS HAIR?!” Master Revolver was livid. Chuckles was still fighting Mobster Marion, and his back was turned to her boyfriend. Master Revolver grinned. He pulled out his gun

He would have fired had it not been for a bullet landing at his feet. Giggles was in the air, and was pointing the Lucky Seven Gun at him.

“You two are trying my patience!” Mobster Marion kicked Chuckles in the guts, sending him sprawling back. Giggles quickly landed next to her best friend, and pointed the Lucky Seven Gun at their foes.

“What on earth are you trying to do here?!” Giggles asked.

“We're seeking vengeance. Don't you see that?” Master Revolver grinned. “We've amassed our forces, and we're now going to remind Pleasantville of our might.”

“Will you just KILL them already?!” Mobster Marion groaned.

“Your might?!” Giggles asked incredulously.

“For two hundred years our families have had Pleasantville under our thumbs. Two little brats can't stop centuries of hard work. That is why we've decided to work together.” Master Revolver explained.

“So, you've laid aside a centuries-old rivalry just to deal with us. I'm flattered.” Giggles snapped.

“Yes, well, you two ARE a fair bit of a nuisance. You and your little Knights of the Last Order. I have to give you credit, you've certainly managed to scare us. But that's more due to our own complacency than any real talent you have. It's only an accident that you two ended up stealing our sacred weapons, that were forged for our forefathers so long ago. But now it's time for the balance to be corrected.” Master Revolver continued on.

“You're rambling.” Mobster Marion rolled her eyes. “Hurry up!”

“You're very impatient Marion.” Giggles pointed out. Chuckles looked up at her. What was Giggles doing?!

“Yes. Impatience has probably worked in your favour, but not tonight. Tonight, we're going to savour every last bit of your defeat. Our colossal triumph begins by making an example of you. To make sure that no one gets the foolish idea to try and take us on again. THAT is what tonight is about. Squashing any hope of resistance that these foolish peasants might have.” Master Revolver straightened himself up. “And furthermore-,”

What he would have said no one knew, because at that moment Sir Hyper bolted past, nearly knocking Master Revolver off his feet.

“What the-?” Mobster Marion looked around. The night then exploded in the colours of red and blue – the police had arrived.

“Chuckles, Giggles! Over here!” Called Sir Dark from a nearby street. Giggles lifted Chuckles up and flew the pair over to where the Knights were.

“What was THAT about?” Giggles asked Sir Hyper.

“When our watches started going off, we realised we'd probably need the police to back us up. Of course, I never realised we'd be THIS right.” Sir Lionheart looked at the many police officers who had now surrounded the small Death Valley Mobsters army. Many of the Mobsters had fled at the sight of the police lights, but a good many of them still got arrested.

Chuckles couldn't help but laugh.

“See? I told you we just had to hold them up!” He thumped Giggles on the back. “The Improbability Clause strikes again!”

Giggles was about to disagree, when she realised he was right.

“The power of exposition!” Chuckles continued to laugh. Meanwhile, Giggles had developed an eye twitch and was fuming.

She turned around and smacked Chuckles upside the head with the butt of the Lucky Seven Gun.

“We're going home. Good NIGHT you guys.” Giggles grabbed Chuckles, whose eyes were watering.

“G'night Giggles! G'night Chuckles!” The Knights waved as the heroes flew off into the night. Once Giggles was out of earshot, they too started laughing.

Poor Belle Masters!

Chapter Fifteen: Alliance

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Charlie sat by the gravestone, hugging his knees. Woof sat sadly beside his master, head bowed low.

He was devastated. If only he hadn't had the idea to go running around fighting crime in the first place, none of this would have happened. Of course, it didn't help that one of Grandpa Tims last suggestions had been to go out and save the day. Why did he listen to his Grandpa Tim? Why did he listen to the Begly blood in his veins, telling him that he was invincible and that nothing could stop him?

But you couldn't blame Grandpa Tim for this. Grandpa Charles had always followed Grandpa Tim, had always wanted to be like Grandpa Tim. Always wanted to be BETTER than Grandpa Tim. It had gotten him killed. A senseless, pointless death that proved nothing.

Grandpa Charles had been at war. He had so badly wanted the Howzat blood in Charles to win out against the Begly blood. To rebel against the Code and the Clause. As much as Grandpa Charles loved Grandpa Tim, he envied and hated him.

Charlie heard a noise and looked up. Joe Masters stood next to him, looking old and sad.

“I couldn't save him. Not this time.” He sighed sadly, tears falling from his eyes. “They were my brothers, and I was supposed to look out for them.”

Charlie could see even clearer now. It wasn't Tims approval that Charles was after – it was Joes. The big brother. The other vital ingredient in the Improbability Clause. The smart, strong one who always kept them out of trouble.

Charles had been jealous of the centuries old friendship between the two families.

“It wasn't your fault.” Charlie whispered.

“I know. But it will live with me forever.” Joe looked up to the cloudy sky above. The sudden crack of thunder barely registered in his psyche, but he knew it meant it was time to go home.

“Come on Charlie. We need to go.” He held out his hand to help the boy up.

“Oh Charles.” The old man thought as he looked back on his best friends grave one last time. “You meant just as much to me as Tim did.

“You were my brother too.”

–

That night, while the Masters and Begly families, along with their friends, celebrated the life of Charles Howzat, Master Revolver was stalking the streets of Pleasantville.

The empty alleyway was dark and foreboding. Master Revolver smirked as he walked down it. Pulling his pistol from his belt, he fired into a dark corner. A loud “TINK” reverberated throughout the air, and the gunman grinned.

“So you ARE here. Glad you could make it.” He sneered.

“Of course I'm here, I've been on pins and needles just salivating for your arrival.” A sarcastic female voice replied.

“Oh I bet you have.” Master Revolver leered. Mobster Marion might have been the leader of his most hated rivals, but she certainly was attractive!

Within a split second he found a sword at his throat. It was no where near as long nor as intimidating as the Lions Claw Blade, but it was at least sharp enough to tear out his throat.

“Don't you dare mock me gunslinger.” Mobster Marion warned. “Or I will kill you.”

“What, after you sent one of your helicopters to rescue me? I was very touched by the way.” Master Revolver shrugged the blade off. “Not as fine as what you're used to wielding is it?”

“Neither is that little pistol you're waving around.” Mobster Marion glared at the pathetic little gun in the Gangsters hand. “However, it will make cutting you down all the easier.”

“Heh heh heh...you're on.” Master Revolver fired his gun, barely missing the Mobster who dodged quickly. She retaliated with a quick jab of the sword, nicking Master Revolvers coat but leaving him relatively unscathed.

Master Revolver fired again, twice. The first bullet missed, but the second one nicked Mobster Marions hand. Enraged, Mobster Marion slashed upwards, leaving a nasty cut on Master Revolvers chest.

Both of them glared at each other. It was on.

Mobster Marion retreated again to the shadows. Master Revolver fumed. Even if he DID retreat to the shadows as well, the gun going off would alert her to his presence. Instead, he dropped to one knee.

“Giving up already? I'll make this quick then.” Mobster Marion thought. She jumped down from the dumpster she'd been standing on, and landed right on Master Revolvers fist!

The wind flew out of her as his fist sunk deeper into her stomach. He pointed the gun at her head, and was about to pull the trigger when the butt of her sword smacked him hard in the side of the head. They separated, both regaining their composure.

“Not bad gunslinger.” Mobster Marion spat, trying to catch her breath.

“You're pretty sharp yourself swords woman.” Master Revolver replied, clutching his sore head. Mobster Marion traced his hulking frame with her eyes, watching his powerful muscles tense and relax.

Both of them look up a fighting stance again. Their eyes locked, the tension rising.

Master Revolver started firing again, each bullet being dodged with ease. Mobster Marion easy got up close and swung her sword, narrowly missing Master Revolver.

Their faces were close. They could taste each others breath. Master Revolver caught her lips with his as she pushed up against him.

–

“So.” Mobster Marion traced the hairs on Master Revolvers chest two hours later in her bedroom.

“I think we have a deal.” Master Revolver cupped his hand around her face. “Together we'll fix those Knights.”

“And we'll get back the Lucky Seven Gun and the Lions Claw Blade.”

“No wonder I've always liked you.”

“Everyone likes me.”

“So arrogant.”

“I have a right to be.”

Another kiss sealed the deal. The Death Valley Gang and the Mobsters of Misneach were no more. A far worse threat had been born of the union of the two most despised groups in the city.

Pleasantville now had to deal with the Death Valley Mobsters.

Chapter Fourteen: At Least We Tried

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 Charlie sat in the tree, looking out over Pleasant Creek.

“It's not your fault Charlie.” Belle tried to reason with him. “You tried to do the right thing, it's not your fault that he got sick.”

“How do you know?” Charlie replied, still staring at the creek.

“Because he was under stress despite you, not because of you. Even if he was out fighting, the stress of the battle would have triggered that heart attack. You heard him wheezing the last time he fought Demon. The next battle would have been his last.” Belle pointed out.

Charlie sighed. “Yeah, I guess you're right. You always seem to be able to think things through.”

“Family gift.” Belle chuckled. She hugged Charlie tightly.

“Thanks.” He murmured.

“You're welcome.” Belle replied.

“OI! ODD-COUPLE! DOWN HERE!” They heard TJ yelling down below.

“WHAT?” Belle shouted down.

“WE'RE GOING FISHING! WANNA COME?!” Sammy yelled.

“SURE!” Charlie replied.

The pair quickly got their fishing gear and headed out with TJ and Sammy to the fishing hole near Pleasant Dam. The others were already there waiting for them.

Daniel, being the tactful leader that he is, had made sure that Sapphire nor Charles were going to be mentioned that afternoon.

“Guys, before you two go and get Belle and Charlie, I'd like to talk to you guys about Charles.” He'd said.

“About?” Sammy enquired.

“Try and keep the talk of Charles and Sapphire to a minimum. Charlie already feels guilty about what happened, this fishing trip is so we can all relax and recover from our various injuries and injustices.” Daniel started moralising.

Sammy raised his hand.

“Very funny Sam.” Daniel glared at him.

“If Charlie brings it up-,”

“GO.” Daniel fumed while everyone else laughed.

“I do feel for poor Charlie though, it must be really tough.” Petunia sighed after the two boys had left.

“Tell me about it. Part of me is glad none of my grand-parents give a damn about me.” Sunny cast her line and settled down, having absolutely no intention of catching any fish, and every intention of spending the day relaxing.

Tammy looked sadly at Sunny. The bruises were becoming less frequent, but from the looks of things the connections that Sunny had with her family weren't improving.

“You have Joe. He looks out for you.” Petunia tried to lighten the mood.

“And you have us.” Daniel put a hand on her shoulder.

“Thanks guys.” Sunny smiled at her friends.

“My grand-parents are very much the doting type. If they knew I was out crime-fighting, they'd report my parents to child services.” Petunia told them.

“My grand-parents keep giving me history books about all the old wars. They think I might find something useful in them.” Daniel chuckled. “I guess they're right.”

“HEY! Caught anything yet?!” They heard TJ yelling.

“That was quick!” Daniel marvelled.

“Uncle Bill gave us a ride. He's off to the restaurant at the moment.” Belle told them as she settled down on the picnic rug. “He just lost an argument with Dad.”

“I wonder about your family sometimes.” Sunny shook her head.

“So do a lot of people.” Charlie laughed. “Dad was telling me back when HE was a kid that he used to hear them fighting all the time.”

“It works for us.” Belle shrugged. “They all love each other.”

“And that's what counts.” Petunia smiled.

“This is getting too sappy, can we move on to the fish now?” TJ complained.

“Awww, doesn't TJ wanna admit he wuvs his Mummy and Daddy?” Sunny teased.

“Oh rack off.” TJ snapped.

“Touchy.” Daniel laughed.

The two boys started wrestling, soon joined by Charlie and Sammy while the girls laughed. The sun was shining, the birds were singing, the fish were biting, and soon the friends were starting to pull in a good haul.

“Uncle Bill WILL be pleased!” Belle grinned as the ice box steadily filled up.

“Is he going to be able to use it all?” Sammy asked, throwing back a small fish that would have been illegal to eat.

“Yup, business is booming at the moment, especially now with the crime rate dropping. People are more likely to leave their homes to go out to dinner nowadays.” Belle replied.

“It's great to know we've helped make this city better.” Daniel stretched himself out.

“You're not going to get all sappy again are you?” TJ groaned, lifting a rather large fish into the ice box. “I don't think we're going to fit much more in guys.”

“I'll call Uncle Bill and we'll get the load to the restaurant. Nothing like fresh fish to go with your chips!” Belles stomach began rumbling.

“You think Bill will let us have some?” Sammy looked hopefully at the catch.

“He'll have to, won't he?” Petunia was also starting to water at the mouth.

Soon Bill arrived to pick up the load, and not long after that the friends were digging in to freshly cooked fish.

“This is delicious.” Sunny wolfed down another mouthful of her fish stir-fry.

“Unbelieveable.” Petunia helped herself to another fish ball.

Sammy and Tammy were content with their fish and chips (battered and crumbed respectively) while Daniel, Charlie and TJ enjoyed their fish in a spaghetti marinara. Belle was making her way through a fish salad.

“It wouldn't be right to sell all these fish and not let you guys have some.” Bill looked out of the kitchen and smiled at the feasting heroes. Already people were starting to forward in, tempted by the delicious smells and the sight of the food. The sun was setting over Lake Pleasant, and the whole atmosphere was brilliant.

Charlie looked around the table. He wished his grand-father was there with them. Every time he'd been to visit the old man in the past week, the conversation had been frosty at best.

Charles Howzat didn't have much time left.

The children had just finished their meal and were about to start thinking about dessert when the sirens started.

“On a Saturday?!” Sunny groaned. She'd been looking forward to some cheesecake to wash down the fish with.

“Let's go – discreetely!” Daniel advised. They all thanked Bill for the meal, and shot out of the back door to get changed into their gear.

–

Like Master Revolver, Mobster Marion thought it was a good idea to have a celebration when she got released from gaol.

Her celebration however had been a bit more lawful. A nice party in her gated mansion hurt no one.

Until the Death Valley Gang arrived and all-out war had started, endangering the nearby populace.

“Just concentrate on getting people out of here!” Giggles said to Chuckles.

“Right!” Chuckles nodded. He ducked underneath a barrage of bullets, heading into a nearby home while Giggles helped a family out of the top-storey window of their home. They took them to the end of a nearby cul-de-sac where they would be safe, and where Lady Luck could look them over for any injuries.

The heroes were going okay until Mobster Marion sent out her bayonet squadron. It was a lot more difficult for the heroes to go unnoticed, especially when both Mobster Marion and Master Revolver declared them targets too.

“WHY did we get involved in this?!” Sir Dark yelped as he dodged another bullet.

“Because innocent lives and nobility and because we're freaking insane!” Sir Lionheart replied, nearly getting skewered with a bayonet.

“How many people left?”

“Too many!”

Sir Hyper ran screaming from one of the bayonets, while Lady Courage tried fighting fire with fire and was taking on two of the Gangsters.

“This is insane! I've seen skirmishes between the DVG and Mob before, but this is beyond that!” Giggles hid with Chuckles behind a house.

“Do you think this has anything to do with that Mobster helicopter saving Revolver last week?” Chuckles asked.

“It could very well do. Maybe Revolver took it as an insult.” Giggles replied, sticking her head out to check what was going on. She fired the Lucky Seven Gun at the feet of a few goons, trying to get them away from Lady Courage and Sir Hyper.

“This is way out of our league!” Sir Hyper yelped as he hid with the others.

“Where are Sir Lionheart and Sir Dark?” Lady Courage asked frantically.

“They're stuck over there with those people. They can't get them out of to the cul-de-sac without getting them killed!” Giggles groaned.

“We could provide a distraction.” Chuckles piped up.

“NO.” Giggles flattened his suggestion. “We'd get killed instantly, and then those poor innocents would get polished off. There simply wouldn't be enough time.”

“If they get distracted, then we've got to try.” Chuckles pointed out.

“Well isn't this a mess?” Said a booming voice that caused a temporary lull in the battle.

“Come on!” Chuckles grabbed Giggles, who was furious. Damn the Improbability Clause!

“So, you're Demon.” Master Revolver stepped forward from the group of Death Valley Gangsters, approaching the newcomer who had walked calmly into the fray. “You're the one who's been keeping the pests busy for us.”

“I don't approve of their meddling in things that children should stay out of.” Demon replied. “You'll understand I'm sure.”

“What do you want?!” Yelled Mobster Marion from one of the mansion windows.

“I want back up. I want to know I can count on the two most powerful fighting forces in Pleasantville to back me when I take on the Pleasantville Council.” Demon stated.

“Whatever.” Master Revolver rolled his eyes. “Get lost freak.”

“Do NOT mess with me Revolver. I will kill you if I must.” Demon warned.

“I'd like to see you try.” Master Revolver smirked, snapping his fingers. Four of the Death Valley Gangsters surrounded him, protecting their master.

“Hmm.” Demon smiled his sick smile.

Meanwhile, the heroes had almost gotten the last of the unintended hostages out of the danger area and back to Lady Luck.

“Almost there! Keep moving!” Sir Lionheart hissed, trying to keep the small crowd inconspicuous.

“Don't you “hmm” me. Show some respect for the most feared criminal in the city!” Master Revolver growled.

Loud laughter was heard from the mansion. Mobster Marion couldn't help herself after hearing that last declaration!

“Shut up Marion!” Master Revolver barked.

Meanwhile, the plan had worked. The hostages were free and the heroes were safe.

“I am NEVER doing anything like that again!” Sir Dark flopped onto the ground, head pounding.

“That was far too close for comfort.” Sir Lionheart agreed. “If it wasn't for the Improbability Clause we'd be in huge trouble.”

Giggles pouted.

“Yeah.” Chuckles wiped his brow. He looked back towards where the battle had been. “Oh NO!”

Sapphire had arrived and was standing close to where the battle had been.

“Grandpa no, you've just recovered from your heart attack!” Chuckles groaned.

He ran towards the old man, who was heading towards the battle armed with two knives.

Giggles ran after them, trying to get the Backpack to work. She pulled out the Lucky Seven Gun, hoping she wouldn't have to use it.

“Well look who else has arrived. Hello Sapphire.” Demon sneered as the old hero walked slowly towards them.

“GRANDPA NO! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!” Chuckles screamed.

“So that's why the rat has your arm thingies.” Demon looked down his nose at Chuckles.

Master Revolver backed off. He didn't want any part of this battle. He'd done what he wanted to do, and that was to put the Mobsters of Misneach on notice.

“I'll settle with you later Marion!” He roared.

“Up yours too sunshine!” Was the polite reply.

“Have fun with the old man.” Master Revolver sneered at Demon, before taking his small army and leaving.

Sapphire attacked first, but the heart attack plus his bad hips had slowed him down significantly. Demon dodged far too easily, and shoved Sapphire to the ground.

“GRANDPA!” Screamed Chuckles, but it was far too late. Demon stomped on one of Sapphires frail wrists, breaking it easily. With the knife that had come loose from the old mans hand, he stabbed his prey squarely in the chest.

Finally the Backpack was going to behave! Giggles flew furiously towards Demon, ready to belt the living daylights out of the man. Demon ducked her first swoop, before throwing his boomerang after her. It clipped her arm, but she couldn't feel the pain over her fury. One boot to the chest had him sprawled on the ground

Realising that fighting Chuckles and Giggles alone was a bad idea, Demon quickly set off one of his smoke bombs and escaped.

“GRANDPA!” Chuckles was still screaming. He fell to his knees next to his beloved grand-father. “WHAT WAS THE POINT?! WHAT WAS THE FREAKING POINT?!”

Sapphire looked up at his grand-son. “At least...we were willing to try.”

The howls of pain from his devastated grand-son echoed hauntingly through the night.

Chapter Thirteen: My Best Friends.

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Charles lay in his bed, looking at the ceiling. He'd been allowed to return to his apartment, provided he stayed in bed and alerted the caretakers immediately if something went wrong.

He felt lonely and angry. Charlie hadn't needed training, it was only a ruse to keep his grand-father out of the way. The insult stung.

Charles could have turned on the TV. He could have read the twenty or so books that the twins had brought him. But he couldn't bring himself to even lift his head.

He WAS getting old. He'd just had a heart-attack, for pete's sake. His hips were constantly locking up and his reaction time was much slower than he had once been.

His thoughts turned to the past. Joe, Tim and him. They were unstoppable in their day.

–

“You're certain this is going to work?” Joe looked doubtfully at the go-cart, which Tim was 100% certain was going to work.

“Yup.” Tim grinned back.

“And you're going to beat those punks on the other side of town?”

“Yup.”

“With no injuries?”

“Yup.”

“And the cart left in one piece?”

“Yup.”

“Even though Pleasant Gorge is full of dangerous turns and covered with rocks?”

“Yup.”

“How?”

“The Improbability-,”

“Finish that sentence and I'll deck you.”

Charles laughed. “You're just jealous Joey.”

“No, I'm not. I just disapprove of using the Improbability Clause for every little thing that comes up out of the woodwork!” Joe fired back.

“Yup, jealous.” Charles continued to laugh.

The three boys had been challenged by another group of boys on the other side of the city to a go-cart race. It was the school holidays and the perfect time for young boys just in their teens to start causing mischief.

“This beauty will have no trouble getting down that hill.” Tim bragged. “And she'll have no problem beating Davis, Bull and Pitt.”

“This beauty” was made of old plywood and tape, with some old baby carriage wheels to finish it off.

“We're doomed.” Joe buried his face in his hands, his long hair falling around his face. As the oldest, Joe was usually the most level-headed and often kept the other two out of trouble. Tim was next, and was always IN trouble. Charlie was the littlest, and tagged along with whatever Tim wanted to do.

“You're such a spoilsport Joey.” Tim poked his best friend in the ribs. “We'll be fine!”

“Besides, the girls will be there watching!” Charles piped up, earning him laughs from the older two.

“Charles got a girlfriend has he?” Joe ruffled his friends hair.

“No!” Charles shoved him back.

“Well, I will by the end of the week. I reckon Denise likes me.” Tim smirked, proud of himself.

“Denise Fairweather? No way.” Charles frowned. “You're too fat!”

“Yeah, Tubby!” Joe gave Tim a good push. “You need to stop eating for a month, then you might have a chance!”

“Yeah, and you need to eat for a month and you might have a chance with Delilah.” Tim said slyly.

“You know that's an arranged marriage! I have no choice!” Joe groaned.

“You like her.”

“Do not!”

“The only thing stronger than your love for Delilah is your jealousy of the Improbability Clause.”

“GET BACK HERE YOU LITTLE RUNT!”

Charles roared with laughter as Joe tore after Tim, who ran off laughing.

–

The kids from the other side of the city had a beautiful new store-bought cart that looked stunning. It's metal exterior gleamed and the paintwork was exquisite.

Joe looked doubtfully at Tims cart. The thing looked perilously close to breaking apart, the tape looked ready to rip at a moments notice.

“Look at THAT! No way is that even going to make it to the finish line!” Bull laughed.

“She will too!” Tim fought back.

“Oh please, it's barely holding together as it is!” Pitt jeered.

“One weeks pocket money says otherwise!”

“You're on!”

“Hang on-,” Joe tried to intervene. He really didn't want to give up a weeks pocket money, especially when he was so close to finishing his model plane collection!

“Too late! Unless you're a wussy.” Bull teased. The others started chanting “Wussy!” until Joe gave up.

Four of the boys piled into the two carts, with Joe and Davis ready to push the carts down the steep slope that had been the bank of Lake Pleasant until it had been drained.

“On your mark...get set...” The weaselly, pimply Mitch from their class got ready to start the race. No one particularly liked him, but he was good for little things like this. “GO!”

Both boys pushed as hard as they could before jumping into the back of the carts. The two small vehicles tore down the slope.

“WATCH OUT!” Yelped Joe as the poorly-constructed cart rattled over a large rock. The other cart had dodged it, costing the driver a bit of time.

“Faster Bull!” Davis protested.

“I'm trying!” Bull roared back, dodging another bush that the other three boys had simply gone through.

Joe had never been so terrified in his life. The sides of the cart were starting to fall off, and he grabbed them tightly to keep them from flying away. Charles was whooping with joy and Tim was fully focused on steering the contraption...or at least pretending to, he hadn't thought about the actual steering side of things.

The end was in sight, and the newer, shinier cart was barely in front.

“LOOK OUT FOR THOSE LOGS!” Screamed Joe. Precision steering was needed to get between those two logs...and there was none.

“LEAN RIGHT!” Tim yelled back. The three boys leaned right. It was too late, Joe only just being able to grab Charles and pull him back before the cart smacked into the side of one of the logs and went spinning towards the finish line, the other cart barely avoiding getting hit.

Joe grimaced. Charles had nearly had his face scraped off by the sharp sticks that pointed out of the logs. The cart finally landed at the finish line, to the cheers of the other children who had come to watch.

“YOU DID IT TIM!” Denise yelled with joy. “YOU WON!”

“How in the-?!” Bull, Pitt and Davis pulled up behind the three winners as the cart completely fell apart.

“You were too scared to get your cart damaged.” Tim pointed out.

“I CALL IMPROPER USE OF THE IMPROBABILITY CLAUSE!” Joe roared furiously. Suddenly he felt a sharp pain in face. He grabbed his eye, and was rewarded with the sight of his own blood.

A nice big cut had opened up over his eye. Thankfully the eye itself hadn't been damaged, but stitches were going to be needed.

“Are you okay Joey?!” Delilah ran over to help her friend. “Come on, we need to get you home!”

“Cripes, sorry Joey. Didn't mean for you to get hurt.” Tim looked at Joe, scared. “You haven't lost your eye have you?”

“NO. My dignity yes, but the rest of me is fine thank you!” Joe walked off with Delilah. Tim and Charles followed, feeling a bit sheepish.

“Maybe helmets next time?” Charles suggested.

“NO NEXT TIME!” Joe yelped.

–

Two tears fell from the eyes of the old man lying helpless in his bed. No longer racing go-carts down Pleasant Gorge, no longer fighting wars.

He felt useless. Impotent. Alone.

Bored.

Charles reached over and grabbed the remote. He flicked aimlessly through the channels.

There was a knock at the door.

“Come in!” He croaked. In walked Joe Masters, the old scar from the cart-race joined by two others. It made Joe look far older than he really was.

“Hard to believe you're older than me.” Charles smiled wryly.

“What does that matter?” Joe asked.

“One of those scars should be mine.” Charles said.

“Again, that doesn't matter. You have nothing to prove Charles.” Joe said sternly. “You're my friend.”

“If it wasn't you protecting me, it was Timmy.” Charles coughed.

“You did your fair share too. How many times did you stop Tim and I from killing each other?” Joe helped the other man sit up so he could have some water.

“When did we get old Joey? When did we stop mattering?” Charles sipped his water slowly.

“We still matter mate. We're still relevant. We're still loved.” Joe took the cup as Charles lay back down. “You shouldn't have been so upset with Charlie. He got a great deal out of your training.”

“It was a ruse.” Charles said.

“Because he loves you. He wants to protect you. He also wants to learn from you. He can't do that if you get yourself killed.” Joe tried to reason with his old friend.

Charles lay back. “I can't stop Joey. I need to be out there. I need to be doing SOMETHING!”

Joe sighed. Charles was never going to stop, that was true. He had always been ready to sign up to whatever stupid plan Tim had going. He was always the first to volunteer for a dangerous mission when they'd been at war. He'd scoffed at anyone who hung back. He was prepared to do anything. Any dare, any favour, anything to make himself noticed.

“You were always the oldest. You were the one who always protected us. Tim always had the ideas. And I was the lackey who followed along, because you two were the most awe-inspiring kids in the neighbourhood. Everyone wanted to be you guys. And you didn't mind that I tagged along. You made me your friend.” Charles coughed loudly again, prompting Joe to refill the water glass.

Joe watched helplessly as the younger mans coughing fit got worse. He reached up to push the red button that would call for help, but Charles stopped him.

“No, it's alright, I'm fine.” Charles coughed out, clearly NOT fine. Joe continued to pushing the button. “NO! Don't push that! I'm fine! I'm fine!” Charles coughing fit soon stopped him from talking. Joe pushed the button, and within five minutes a nurse had arrived to take care of the situation.

The glare that followed Joe out of the room would haunt him for the rest of his days.

Chapter Twelve: A Cunning Plan And A Sticky End.

http://gincdmon.tumblr.com/

It had been a few weeks since Sapphire had joined the fight against crime. Unfortunately due to his obstinacy and old age, his involvement in any battle usually ended up with one or more of our heroes getting hurt.

“This is insane. Surely he can see that he's just getting us in trouble.” Belle grumbled one day as she sat with Charlie in the tree.

“He says it wouldn't be an issue if we'd just him sort out the criminals his way.” Charlie sighed. “I can't let him become a criminal himself.”

Belle reached out and grabbed her best friends hand. “I'm sorry you're caught in the middle of this. It's not fair on you. You shouldn't have to choose between your family.”

“Grandpa is the one who's making me choose though.” Charlie looked away. “He's never been like this before. He's always been so encouraging and supportive of the Code and the Clause.”

“Maybe it's because he feels now that he's retired that he's not useful any more.” Belle had a sudden thought. “Maybe if you involve him more in your non-crime-fighting life, he might feel more valued and useful and lay off trying to get himself killed.”

Charlie perked up. “Did you REALLY just have a good idea before I had it?!” He looked stunned.

“What's that screaming noise?” Thomas asked Peter, who was helping him paint the front fence.

“I think that's my daughter killing your son.” Peter replied.

“Ah.”

–

“Hey Grandpa.” Charlie walked into the retirement home later that day.

“Hey Charlie. You're walking a bit gingerly aren't you?” Charles noticed Charlie wincing slightly as he walked.

“Fell out of the tree.” Charlie brushed him off. “I was wondering if you could help me.”

“Of course! Nothing's too good for my grand-son!” Charles closed the door behind them and went to get some tea while Charlie sat down.

“Now, what can I do for you?” Charles asked after they'd settled down and were enjoying the tea and shortbread.

“I was wondering...I really like the Arm Scythes. It's just...I wanted to know if you'd train me in how to use them?” Charlie asked. Both he and Belle agreed that it was important for Charles to feel like he was still involved with protecting the city, even if it was via proxy.

“Well, I...sure!” Charles agreed, pleased that his grand-son was taking an interest. “Want to start now?”

“Of course!” Charlie couldn't believe it had worked! The pair went out into the secluded back yard, where due to the over abundance of shrubbery, it was impossible for anyone to see in. Outside was a small outdoor gym which Charles used every day.

Charlie groaned inwardly. This was going to be PAINFUL.

–

And it only got worse.

“Move it!” Master Revolver ushered his men through the big bank doors and into the large black van that served as a getaway.

The first night of Dingbat's shift as Warden of the prison, Master Revolver had walked out of the door. Literally. Dingbat had foolishly walked past his cell with the keys hanging out of his back pocket and Master Revolver had simply walked out of there and straight back to the Death Valley Gang.

“Hmph. Too easy.” Master Revolver got into the back of the van as it drove away. He was relishing his freedom, and the robbery was merely in celebration of his escape.

Suddenly, the van lurched, throwing everyone in the back of the van into the wall.

“Let me guess. Giggles has shot out the tyres with MY gun.” Master Revolver groaned, pulling himself off the wall.

“YUP! Only it's MY gun.” Giggles poked her head in one of the broken back windows. “Hi hi! You've not finished your gaol term!”

“No. I haven't.” Master Revolver grimaced. “Where's the truck?!”

“Truck?” Giggles asked.

“BEHIND YOU!” Sir Hyper screamed. Giggles flew up just in time to avoid getting crushed as a large truck rear-ended the crashed van. Master Revolver and his crew quickly exited the side doors of the van and rushed towards the truck. The Knights and Giggles soon surrounded them, but they were outnumbered by the Death Valley Gang members. Most of them made it easily to the truck.

“GO!” Master Revolver commanded. “Leave the others!”

Giggles groaned. The tyres on the truck had huge metal plates covering them – no way could she shoot the tyres out.

She instead landed on top of the truck and held on for dear life as it sped through the streets of Pleasantville.

“Where's Chuckles when you need him?!” Giggles tried to keep grip, but it was hard, and the Backpack could only help so much. She'd pressed the button on her watch, hoping someone would be able to follow, but the Knights were too busy taking care of the remaining DVG goons to be of any help.

“She'll fall off eventually. DAMN them! At least that Chuckles kid isn't around as...” Master Revolver exhaled sharply. Chuckles was standing on the pavement, the truck speeding towards him. But this Chuckles was different.

The truck was almost on top of him – suddenly he ran towards it, the Lions Claw Blade aimed below the tyre shields. The truck skidded and smashed into Lake Pleasant, leaving Master Revolver fuming.

Giggles landed beside her best friend. “Took your time.” She grumbled.

“Training with Grandpa again. Like my new decorations?” Chuckles grinned, showing off the Arm Scythes.

“You...filthy...little...BEAST!” Master Revolver rushed at Chuckles with a metal pipe. Instinct lead Chuckles to put up his arm to defend himself, where the pipe met its match in one of the Scythes.

“Seriously?” Master Revolver looked at the metal pipe, disappointed.

Chuckles grinned. Giggles laughed. Master Revolver fumed, until he saw a helicopter in the distance.

A helicopter belonging to the Mobsters of Misneach.

Chuckles and Giggles tensed up. What were the Mobsters up to now? A chain ladder was dropped behind Master Revolver.

“HURRY UP!” One of the Mobsters yelled at him.

Master Revolver glanced back at the two heroes before grabbing the ladder, which took off.

“Come back here!” Giggles yelled. She tried to take off, but the Backpack was out of charge. “Botheration.”

“I wonder why the Mob is suddenly helping Revolver?” Chuckles mused.

“Can't be anything good.” Giggles replied. “Still, it looks like Sapphire is out of the way now.”

“Yeah, this past few weeks he's been really good. He's been more than happy to train me up.” Chuckles said as the pair headed back to the tip. “It helps too that most of the crime has been petty stuff. Demon must have gone underground.”

“I hope he never comes back.” Giggles commented. “He scared me.”

–

Sitting in his lounge room, Charles was furious. He was watching the report which clearly showed Chuckles and Giggles letting Master Revolver AND the Mobsters of Misneach get away AGAIN.

Ooooh, wasn't he going to have a word with his grand-son when he next came over! Using the little “training” excuse to keep his grand-father out of the action!

“I bet that little Masters weasel had something to do with it too, the interfering little beast! Why can't they do these things properly?!” He stormed into the kitchen, grabbing the counter while catching his breath. He went to the fridge and grabbed a drink of water.

He sat down, his chest feeling tight. Why was he feeling so light-headed for?

He jumped as the glass fell from his hand to the floor, clattering loudly and spilling water everywhere. He went to reach for it, but his shoulders were burning and his neck felt tight too. The urge to vomit gripped him as breathing became harder.

He slumped to the floor. Not now. Not now.

Not a heart attack.

–

“You're very lucky to be alive Mr. Howzat.” The nurse said, taking the old mans pulse.

“Tell me about it. Why didn't you call for help straight away?!” Betty was beside herself. She'd already lost her mother, she wasn't ready to lose her father yet too.

Charles wasn't listening. He was too busy glaring at Charlie.

“How could you?” He growled at the young man.

“I did what I had to. To keep YOU safe, and to keep the Knights safe.” Charlie said.

“What happened?!” Betty asked.

“Your son lied to me.” Charles answered.

“I did not! I asked you to train me and I attended training faithfully.” Charlie felt insulted.

“You used your “training” excuse to keep me busy while YOU let the DVG and the Mob escape!” Charles yelled.

“Mr. Howzat calm down right now!” The nurse barked angrily.

“You and your little friend conspired against me.” Charles ignored her. “Your own grand-father.”

“It was for your own good. Look where you are now!” Charlie replied.

“Charlie, let's go.” Thomas reached out to take his son home.

“And YOU are going to sleep!” The nurse jabbed Charles with a needle.

The last thing Charles remembered before drifting off to sleep was being angry.

“I'm sorry Mum, Dad.” Charlie apologised as the family headed out to the car.

“It's okay son.” Thomas sighed. Betty glared at him.

“OKAY? He manipulated his grand-father and you think it's OKAY?!” She yelped as they got into the car.

“Dearest, please. He had good intentions.” Thomas started the car and they drove off.

“Yeah, look where the good intentions got him.” Izzy snapped.

“Didn't stop Grandpa from getting sick.” Lizzy added.

“Would you prefer to have him murdered?” Thomas snapped at his two daughters, who silenced. They knew not to mess with their father when he was REALLY angry. “At least if he has a heart attack at home he has a chance of being saved. If he's killed in the streets, he has no hope.”

“He's too old to be fighting. You guys should realise that.” Charlie added.

“You shouldn't be fighting either young man.” Betty scowled.

“Someone has to.” Charlie replied.

“Don't get smart with me young man. You're a hypocrite, just like your father and your little friends the Masters.” Betty folded her arms. “This discussion is over.”

“Mum-,”

“ENOUGH.” Thomas warned.

The car trip home was deathly silent.

Chapter Eleven: Sapphire

http://gincdmon.tumblr.com/

“YIKES!”

Giggles ducked out of the way as the car behind her exploded. “Demon this is enough! You're going to get innocent people killed!”

Demon stood atop a large truck, his ten foot-men throwing petrol-bombs at the seven heroes.

“Innocent people are being killed every day due to the negligence of our governments and law enforcement. Any victims today are a small sacrifice to pay for the greater good.” Demon said, watching as the carnage unfolded.

“EEK!” Sir Hyper cried as he grabbed an elderly senator out of the way of a petrol-bomb. “Watch out sir!”

Sir Lionheart looked at his watch. A text message from Lady Silent had appeared.

“Police are still twenty minutes away.”

“TWENTY MINUTES?!” Sir Lionheart cried. “How are we supposed to even SURVIVE twenty minutes, let alone keep the damage to a YIKES!” He rolled out of the way of another explosion.

The news didn't help Sir Dark either, who was trying to keep Lady Luck safe while she bandaged up another female senator who'd been injured.

“Lady Luck, we don't have time for this, we have to move!” Sir Dark growled at her, trying to keep one of the henchmen at bay. The man laughed at him.

“Just a little boy trying to do a mans work!” He taunted. Irate, Sir Dark smacked him across the cheekbone with his metal pole.

“Okay, I'm done. She can't walk though!” Lady Luck told Sir Dark as one of the other henchmen came to the aid of his comrade.

“I can't keep fighting them off!” Sir Dark protested.

Meanwhile, Lady Courage was in a bit of hurt herself. Now sporting a pair of purple daggers painted onto her armour, she had just sustained a nasty burn to her hand.

“We have to go to her!” Sir Dark pointed out.

“But if we leave Senator Lucy out here on her own, she's done for!” Lady Luck protested. Lady Courage was still holding her own against the henchman who had gotten her, but her hand was making it hard.

“There's too many of them!” Groaned Chuckles, swinging wildly with the Lions Claw Blade.

“And I'm running out of ammo too!” Giggles shot another petrol-bomb in the sky, exploding it harmlessly.

“We need to get to Demon. We get him, this ends. I'm going to try and get him.” Chuckles said as Giggles landed behind him.

“Like hell you are. You even look like you're thinking of taking him down and suddenly you've got henchmen to deal with.” Giggles pointed out.

“SOMEONE has to take him out.” Chuckles protested.

“Who?”

Demon chuckled at this little exchange between the heroes. They were stuffed.

Suddenly there was a loud clattering behind him. He spun around just in time to dodge a blue ninja wearing a blade along each arm.

“Oh no...Grandpa!” Chuckles groaned while Giggles proceeded to chuck a temper tantrum. “Stupid, stupid, STUPID!”

“Who are you? You're not a Knight.” Demon glared at the blue ninja.

“My name is Sapphire.” The ninja lifted his arm, pointing one of the blades at Demons throat. “And now you die.”

Demon gulped as Sapphire struck. Fortunately for him a Giggles bullet landed at the feet of the ninja, sending him jumping back.

“What is your problem Giggles?!” Sapphire roared furiously.

“WE. DO. NOT. KILL.” Giggles growled. Three of the henchmen had come to Demons aid, allowing Chuckles and the Knights to get the upper hand against those who were left.

Sapphire knocked two of the henchmen away, going for Demon. Giggles took on the last one, finally subduing him with some rope.

Demon, who had composed himself, fought against Sapphire. He was barely holding his own.

“Chuckles, who is that?!” Sir Hyper asked quietly after the rest of the henchmen had been taken care of.

“My grand-father. Those are his Arm Scythes.” Chuckles sighed in frustration. He ran over and climbed up the side of the truck to help Sapphire.

“This is too easy, you're pathetic Demon.” Sapphire gloated. “The only reason you're still alive is because the others are too weak to end your pathetic life.”

He stood over Demon, who had fallen and was now at the mercy of Sapphire again. Sapphire again aimed one of the Scythes at Demon. Suddenly pain ripped through his hips and lower back.

“Argh! Not now!” Sapphire groaned as his legs locked up. Damn his hip complaints!

Demon saw his chance. He grabbed his boomerang and was about to attack, when the Lions Claw Blade appeared in front of him. One look at Chuckles and Demon slipped off the roof of the truck, knowing he stood no chance against the combined might of Chuckles and Giggles.

His henchmen had slowly made their way back to the truck, and now the group made their escape. Chuckles quickly leapt off the moving truck, while Giggles saved Sapphire from a certain fall.

“See you guys back at HQ!” Giggles placed Sapphire down on the ground, before heading off.

“Ugh.” Sir Dark groaned, pulling his sore body off the ground where he'd been resting.

The group scattered and made their way back to the tip.

Just then, the police arrived. Timing.

–

Sapphire groaned. His hips were still sore, but at least he could move. He'd finally gotten to the tip, now it was just a matter of finding the headquarters of the Knights of the Last Order.

Meanwhile, the others had hurried back and heard the story of what had happened at the barbecue earlier that week.

“So your grand-father thinks he can help us?” Sunny asked.

“Yeah, but as you saw, he doesn't really conform to our ethos.” Belle pointed out.

“Plus his age. If you hadn't stepped in when you did Charlie, Demon would have killed him.” Daniel pointed out.

“The whole situation stinks.” TJ folded his arms. “I don't envy you one bit Charlie.”

“I don't envy me either.” Charlie sighed. Tammy put an arm around his shoulders.

“I wish there was some way we could convince him to stand down, but I doubt he'd listen to us.” Petunia finished tending to Sammys burnt cheek.

Charlie perked up.

“Hey, maybe we could-,”

“ONE use of the Improbability Clause per day is enough for me thanks.” Belle said dryly. Charlie laughed.

“So, what are we going to do?” Sammy piped up.

“What are we going to do about what?” Another voice popped up.

“ARGH!” The eight friends squealed in fright.

“Oh, Grandpa, it's just you.” Charlie was the first to recover. Sapphire removed his headgear to reveal Charles Howzat.

“What on earth were you thinking?!” Belle fumed.

“I was just going to finish what YOU started.” Charles scowled at the young lady. “And I suggest you be more respectful towards your elders.”

“Grandpa...” Charlie trailed off. “You could have been killed.”

“Not the first time.” Charles grinned at his grand-son. Daniel frowned.

“If you're going to work with us, then you need to subscribe to our ethics. You were going to murder Demon.” He said.

“Yes. I was going to end his little reign of terror and make sure no one else got hurt.” Charles eyed off the younger man.

“We can't have that.” Daniel replied.

“You're the leader of the Knights aren't you? Sir Lionheart?” Charles asked.

“Yes.” Daniel looked warily at the old man.

“And you call yourself a leader?” Charles frowned. “I have half a mind to take the leadership of the Knights myself.”

“We'd never follow you!” Sunny leapt to Daniels defence.

“Not ever! Dan is our hero!” Sammy jumped up angrily.

“Dan is the best leader we've got. He's always looked out for us!” TJ was angry too.

“You'd throw your weight behind an inexperienced leader instead of being smart and following me?” Charles looked disappointed. “I was hoping you guys were intelligent.”

“You are SERIOUSLY deluded!” Belle yelped. “We've been doing fine without you! You're old, slow, and breaking down, you're ideas are so out of touch it's not funny!”

“How DARE you!” Charles rounded on Belle, who was fuming. “Insolent little brat! I'll teach you to speak to your elders that way!”

Charles lunged at Belle, who easily side-stepped. He attacked again, and Belle side-stepped again. This happened four or five times until Belle finally took to the sky.

“You pathetic little coward.” Charles shook his head. “You children have no idea. You're letting these people get away with horrendous crimes, and they'll keep getting away with it.”

“Last time I checked, both Marion and Revolver were arrested. Both are currently in gaol. If they break the law again, they'll get arrested again. They'll learn.” Belle said, arms folded.

Charlie sat silently.

“Grandpa, you nearly got yourself killed. If I hadn't stepped in when I did, Demon would have killed you.” He said quietly.

“Only because your 'best friend' stopped me from killing him in the first place!” Charles rounded on his grand-son.

“There is a process for punishing wrongdoers, and that process needs to be followed! We're simply here to stop them from hurting others!” Belle yelled furiously.

“THE PROCESS IS FLAWED!” Charles yelled back.

“THEN THERE IS A PROCESS TO HAVE THAT FIXED!” Belle retorted.

Tammy looked at the pair, before noticing two men walking towards them. She waved.

“Oh dear.” Thomas looked at the scene he'd just walked into.

“Charles, Belle, what's going on?” Joe asked.

“None of your business Joey.” Charles scowled.

“I'll tell you on the way home.” Belle landed beside her grand-father.

“Okay then little one.” Joe put a hand on her head. “Get changed then let's get home, it's going to rain soon.”

“Yes Pa.” Belle skipped off to the hideout to get into her civilian attire. Charles glared after her.

“Back off Charles.” Joe warned. “Leave my grand-daughter alone.”

“If she gets in my way, she'll get what's coming to her.” Charles replied, before walking off angrily.

“Grandpa!” Charlie tried to run after him, but was stopped by his fathers hand on his shoulder.

“Leave him be son.” Thomas said softly. “You can't help him now.”