Prologue:

​A/N Finally rewriting one of my story. Enjoy and please leave a review.

Have you ever dream of begin a superhero? Maybe a superhero such as the Unstoppable Superman; flying through the sky of Metropolis at unmatchable speed, hearing the cheers and thanks you the people you save. Or maybe you’d rather by a vigilante, like the Dark Knight himself; saving the life of innocent people while striking fear into the heart of the bad guys.

As a kid, I’d remember watching these amazing heroes embrace on unbelievable adventure; hero like the web-slinging hero himself, Spider-Man, and how he would swing through the street of New York, kicking butts and saving lives. Hero like the Invincible Iron Man, and how he would make crime-fighting look like one of the most awesome it that ever exist. Even hero like the Mighty God, Thor, and how he would defeat the bad guys while still holding strong to his belief.

Watching all of these heroes, and all their amazing adventures, made me want to become a hero of my own. In fact, it convinced me to become my hero. That’s way, in the second grade, I begun training. To become a hero worthy of the DC and Marvel universe name.

Starting in elementary school, I would spend every recesses climbing and running around, from second grade all the way to fifth grade. To my friends, family, and everyone else, I was just a small, energizer kid running around and climbing on things I shouldn’t be climbing on. I’ll admit, a few times I got in trouble for “trying to escape the school”, but by the end of the fifth grade, I could run around the whole school, practically leap over the metal fences, and still have enough breath to do the whole thing over again. That was stage 1 done to becoming a hero.

In the middle school, I would secretly spend my lunch period shadowing-boxing. Imagining myself in certain situations, like as if I was fighting two guys or if I was fighting three guys, I would try and think about what they would do. And how I wound counter it. Imagining anything and everything from a straight punch to a full roundhouse kick, I self-taught myself how to counter them all. By my 8th grade graduation, I had learned how to kick butts and bust jaws. That was stage 2 done to becoming a hero

During the summer after middle school but before high school, I work of my “hero suit”. Learning to sew may have been painful, with all the little, sharp needles and never really knowing where they all were, and a little hard to do in only to months, but nevertheless, I did it. By the end of the summer, I have success sewed myself a simple, black suit with a ski-mask to hide my identify. It may not be the greatest hero suit known to mankind, but it was my hero suit. And I was proud of it. Plus, I had ran out of sewing equipment and bandages to use so I was could of stuck with it. Stage 3 done to becoming a hero.

In high school, freshman year, I took a class in metal shop so I could have the materials needed to craft my weapon of choose; a pair of strong, sturdy, batons, kind of like Nightwing himself but without all the extra accessories like begin able to shoot off a piece of itself or begin able to shock some bad guys. I figure I'd add that stuffs later in life. Anyway, back to topic, after crafting my weapons, I also added some metal covers onto my suit, to act as protection. But also because I thought it look awesome. Stage 4 done to becoming a hero.

By my junior year, I decided that I was really. I was really to become my own hero. I has the hero suit. I has the skills. I even has the weapon of choice. On May 5, 2013, I declare myself a hero. A brave, new hero known only as Thrill Rider. A masked man who will risk his life to save the people from all sort of evil threats. Like bad guys, and.... other bad stuffs.. like evil dogs.....Yeah....evil dogs.....

Anyway, today is August 25, 2014. My name is Micheal Steven Peterson. I live in Los Angeles, California, with my dad, mom, and two little brother. I'm now a medium-height, dark hair, senior, attending Los Angeles High School. I'm been the mysterious Thrill Rider for a little over a year now; stop many crimes in progress, been in a lot of fight, have actually been chase by the cops before, and surprising, am having the best time of my life.

2: Chapter 1: A Day in the Life of Micheal Steven Peterson, A Night in the Life of Thrill Rider

Chapter 1: A Day in the Life of Micheal Steven Peterson, A Night in the Life of Thrill Rider

Micheal Steven Peterson:
“If I were struck by lightning”, I thought, thinking about the DC's "Flash" origin, “Then could I become the fastest man alive? Or does that honor go to QuickSilver”

It was somewhere around 7:30 a.m when I first walk through the large, metal, orange gates of the Los Angeles High School. Pushing my way through the crowds of new freshman, second-year sophomores, exhausted juniors, and excited seniors, I was finally able to reach the rows and rows of newly-painted, bright-red, metal lunches tables. Jumping up and down a few times, I was able to see a table that wasn’t taken yet, near the men’s and women’s restroom that probably .

“Dips!!!“, I yell, ramming my way through the busying, talking crowds. After almost accidently pushing over a few students, but saying sorry afterward, I finally made my way to the empty lunch table. Leaping a little into the air, I sternly landed hard onto the bench of the table, my butt hurting a little.

“Ouch”, I said, rubbing my bottom. “Okay, not doing that again.”

Securing the table as my own, I took off my small, bright-red, double-stripped backpack and put in on the empty seat next to me. I then return to my previous question?

“If I were struck by lightning, then could I actually become the Flash? I mean, not actually, actually become the Scarlet Speedster himself, but if I lived in the DC universe, then I could I?”

While thinking about the question some more, I was suddenly caught off guard when I saw a pair of arms come out from no way.

“Gotcha!“, yell someone from behind me.

Thinking fast and out from instance, I nodded my head forward before moving quickly moving it back, striking the person behind me in the head.

“Ooff”, mutter the person, letting me go.

Once free, I place my hand on my fist and push down on it. With the added force on my arm, my elbow practically launch like a rocket, right into my attacker’s hip. Stumbling back a bit, I speedily turn around to see who it is that grab me, a pair of fists ready at the hand.

“Whoa there!“, said the man, putting his hands up. “Easy there Micheal! It’s me! Brian! I come in peace!!!”

Looking at the attack for a bit, I instantly recognize the man.

“Brain”, I yell, punching him in the shoulder. “Aw man! How many times have I told you not to do that?!”

The attacker, as it turn out, is one of my oldest and most dearest friends ever. Brian Wane is a dark-skin, completely bald, slightly shorter than me senior. Originally, he and I met back in the second grade, when I was still at phase 1 of my plan to becoming Thrill Rider. We met after he accidentally kick a soccer ball at me while I was climbing on the outside of the rails of the playground equipment. I didn’t see the soccer ball coming so when it strike me, I was so startle, I let go of the rail and fell onto the burning-hot rubber ground, which is a whole lot better than falling into a pit filled with wood chips ( by the way, thanks you to Los Angeles Elementary School for replacing them).

Now, before you said anything, I know that isn’t exactly a “normal” way to make a best friend, but just as the ball hit me and I fell, one of the teacher supervising turn her head and didn’t see where I was just a second okay. I had to thanks Brian for that. Ever since then, he and I have become best friend.

Lowering my pair of fists, I chuckle a bit before helping Brian to his foot. Looking around for a bit, I notice how everyone had stop what they were doing and were now looking at us funny.

“Uh......Nothing to see here folk”, I yell, “...Just two old friends, playing a game......called....... Surprise....”

“That was lame”, whisper Brian, tapping on my shoulder. “Really, really lame.”

“Shut up”, I reply, smiling at the staring crowd. After a few seconds more, everyone return back to their normal business. Eyeing Brian evilly, I return back to my seat, with Brian taking the empty seat next to me.

“Sorry about that”, commented Brian, slapping me on the shoulder. “Just wanted to see if you still knew how to brawl. Hehe....Looks like I got my answer....In a sort of painful though.”

Brian then rub the part of the hip where I struck him before.

“In my defense”, I chuckle, “I have warned you many times before never to sneak up on me like that. There are such things as a simple pat on the back, you know.”

“Why”, ask Brian, “Are you practicing to be Thrill Rider’s sidekick? Not that I’m saying he need one, but still, never hurt to have some backup.”

“Hmm”, I thought, “A sidekick, ah? I wonder what that would be like.”

I started daydreaming about Thrill Rider with a sidekick. A shorter, smaller me to help me with the bad guys; kicking their butts, breaking their jaws, stopping their evil crimes.

“Ah..no thanks”, I thought to myself, “I never been one for partners.”

“So anyway”, started Brian, knocking me back into reality. “What did you do during summer break? I mean, with me visiting my grandmother in Salt Lake City, you and Ash had a whole summer alone. Together.”

“I hope you’re not saying what I think you’re saying”, said a familiar voice from behind us.

Bumping the two of us aside, a light-skin, shoulder-long, light-brown hair, slightly shorter than Brian, friend took the now empty seat between us.

“Hey Brian”, said Ash in a funny mode, putting her arm around him. “What it is that you would talking about before?”

“Uh......“, sutter Brian with his mouth open and eyes wandering around wildly.

Ashley “Ash” Varson, like Brian, is one of my oldest and most dearest friend ever. Also like Brian, we originally become friends after a funny incident.

It was way back in the fourth grade when Ash and I first met, in Mrs. Vega’s class. Back then, we knew each other but didn’t really know each other. Or least, not until, Mrs. Vega made us partner to build a small shoebox float in honor of the state of California. Awkward at first, we surprisingly were making a lot of progress on the float; had the names and pictures of famous Californians glued to the sides of the float, with plastic sunflowers, the state flower, sitting on top of the float, and even a map of California with all the cities on it staple to the front.

A week into the project, that’s when the funny incident that made us friend happen. You see, while I was away, trying to find some markers, Ash accidently knock over the glue bottle we were using. Some glues spilled out a few seconds later and leaked all over the desks. Somehow, she was able to clean up most of the spilled glue before I return with the markers. Notice how I said “clean up most of the spilled glue”? Well she forgot to clean up the glue that had spilled onto the floor. Without realizing it, I had accidently step in the glue puddle. Two hours later, when class is about to end, I discover my foot stuck to the floor of the classroom. While funny to everyone else, I has just has my first ever panic attack. I had just learned how to tied my shoe. The problem with that though, is that I would always tied it too tight. So in case any of you would thinking “why don’t I just slide out of my shoe”, now you know.

Anyway, the school day ending with the school janitor having to cut the shoelaces just to free me, me splashing an ocean of cold bathroom water onto my face just to calm down, and finally Ashley Varson endlessly apologizing for the mess. To this day, I’m still not sure how that lead to a strong friendship between the two of us, but I can’t really say I stay up all night thinking about it.

“Sooo”, said Ash with a big smile on her face. “What it is that you would talking about before? About me and Micheal having a whole summer alone? Together?”

Practically sweating an ocean now, I figure I might as well save him.

"Ash and I didn't really spend a whole lot of time together", I answer, "She spend most of her summer at home, while I spend most of my summer...playing video games...hehehe."

Secretly giving me a thumb-up from behind Ash's back, Brian wipe of the sea of shiny sweats from his forehead before sighing.

"Now I wouldn't say I spend most of my summer at home", Ash declare, eyeing me evilly. "I did go out every once and in a while. Like to the mall to buy some new clothes."

"Hmm", murmur Brian suddenly. "Any chance you took Micheal with you?"

"Hey", I shouted, "What's that suppose to mean? I don't need new clothes!!! I like what I'm wearing!"

Out of nowhere, the happy, cheerful looks my two best friends had disappear. Now, in place of them are those two really weird looks. You know, like the ones on t.v. where a person said something, but then his or her friends look at that person weirdly because what's about to happen is quite literally the complete opposite of what that person just said. Yeah, that disturbing look.

Anyway, back to reality, Brian and Ash then look at what they're wearing, versus what I'm wearing; While Brian is wearing a thin, striped, gray and black, short-sleeves T-shirt with loose-fitting long, dirt-brown pant, Ash is wearing a thin, no-sleeves, plain, white tank top with some knee-length, tight blue short. Meanwhile, I'm wearing a one size too large, giant, short-sleeves, pink shirt with a picture of the powerful Star Warrior himself, Kirby, on it, eating a giant, green watermelon. Surrounding the adorable monster, Kirby, are the words "Pink Puff of Power" in a different shades of pink from the shirt. Beside the shirt, I'm also wearing a loose-fitting, many pocket, dark-blue short.

"I don't see what's wrong with the way I dress", I declare happily. "I like the way I dress."

"You like having an 8-year-old cartoon character on your chest", ask Brian.

"Yes I do", I reply, smiling and holding up my head high. "Yes, I do like having an iconic Star Warrior on my chest."

To symbolize my proudness, I pounded the little pink puff himself. Just as I did, the school bell ring, signaling the end of the free period and telling us it's time to head to class.

"Oh time to go", Ash said, quickly getting up. "Don't want to be late on the very first day of school."

Running away from us, Brian and I look at each other for awhile.

"Wow", said Brian, "Since when did Ash actually start caring about school?"

"No idea", I reply.

Before leaving and heading to our class, we give one another a quick secret handshake before disappearing. I can't really said the rest of the school day was as interesting as those last 15 minutes, sadly. Since it was a first day, practically all of the classes were just about introducing and about signing syllabus. Honestly, the hardest part of the day was just trying my best not to fall asleep, and I do mean "fall" asleep. You never really realizing how far away the desk are from the head until it's too late. Hehe...

"Oh I can't for tonight", I whisper to myself, rubbing a small, burning, bright-red, bump on forehead.

Tonight
6 Hours Later

"Oh yeah", I scream, raising my arms high into the air. "This is what I am talking about!!!"

Feeling so alive and energetic, I quickly grab the tip of one of the bodyguard's assault rifle and pull it toward me. The bodyguard, not wanting to lose his weapon, follow after me. As he came toward me with his gun, I lifted the gun's tip high into the air so that the gunman couldn't fire at me. With his finger still on the trigger and his refusal to lose his gun, I figure I'd use that to my advantage. Lifting the rifle's tip as high as my arms would go, the man's arm are now high above his body, leaving many "sensitive" soft expose. While distracted trying to get his gun back, I took the chance to knee him in the stomach with my brand-spanking, new, knee pad. Finally letting go of his gun, he fell down to the ground, clutching his stomach and moaning in pain.

"Should've let go", I joke, chuckling and taking out the clip of ammo attach to the rifle. I then toss the rifle one way and the clip the other way.

Now, you're probably wondering how I went from a boring first day at Los Angeles High School:
"And so", continue Mr. Hall, my new senior science teacher, passing out his syllabus, "I do hope that we can all  have a fun year here while learning plenty. In this classroom, we all have to respect one another. I respect you, and in return, I hope that you would respect me." By now, I've nearly lost my energy and is pinching my arms just to stay awoke and free of another tomato-size bump.

To.....This: 
As I toss the gun and clip away, I turn around just in time for someone to head butt me with the back of their assault rifle. "Ooff", I yell, stumbling back a few feet, stun and with one hand on the bump. "Oh come on!!!", I thought, "Serious!?! On the bump!!!" Shaking it off, I look up at the person who struck me. Standing not too far away, he had his rifle aim right at my head, and his right index finger on the trigger. 

Well, it kind of a long story, but since I doubt anyone really want to hear about that, here's the basic "10-ish" lines story: After finishing what felt like an endless first day of high school, I quickly said "Later!!" to my two best buds before dashing out of there before leaping into the front seat of my used, black-green, 2002 Lexus IS 300. Once in, I drove as straight as an arrow home, jump into bed, slept for about 2 hours, fix myself a quick snack of Honey Bunches of Oat, then going back out to suit up. Heading directly to my secret liar, I grab my new and improve Thrill Rider suit, now equipped with these awesome, store-brought, gray-colored, knees pads and elbow pads, and a layer of metal armor sewn to the chest and back area.

"Oh yeah", I said, closing my eyes as I put on the Thrill Rider's mask. "This is it..."

Now ready for my "hobby", I rush over to grab my jet-black motorcycle and zoom away, into the now, dark night of Los Angeles, looking for any bad guys in need of a buttkicking.

Not exactly having much of a plan, I was actually surprised when I somehow accidently rode into an old warehouse near the Los Angeles's Pier, and saw all of these guys standing around two van, one a light-ocean blue and the other a dark, blood red.

"Hmm", I thought, quietly walking my bike the rest of the way into the warehouse. "What's going on here?"

The warehouse, almost about the size of a whole football field and about two of them stack on top of one another (in your mind, make sure the football fields have those weird U-shaped goal thing), is made from rusted steel, pair with even rustier, web-covered I-beams attached to the walls of the warehouse and crossing each other above. Beside the crossing I-beams above are two rows of dirt-covered, broken windows, going the whole way around the building.  Back below, near the ground, where the vans, bad guys, and I are, are hundred if not thousands of thin, metal shelves filled with large, square-shaped, wooden boxes. 

Ignoring the boxes, I quietly and quickly turn off my motorcycle and left it lending against one of the many shelves before rushing over to see what was going on. Hiding in the shadow of the closest shelf, I slowly and quietly peek my head over a box.

"hehe", I thought, giggling. "Sucker...."

From where I'm standing, I could almost see everything! And even hear everything!!! Even better.

"Okay!", scream a tall, muscular man, wearing a massive, thin, brown coat with a strong powerful Russia accent. "We have what you want! Now you give us what we want!!"

"Wow", I thought, taking a closer look. "Man, is that guy bald. I mean, like literally, this whole meeting is begin shine upon from the light reflecting from his shiny, round bald man. Think he's actually blinding me a bit."

"Sure! Sure!", reply another man, grinning. Almost completely opposite to the Russia guy, this man is medium-height, thin, and has nearly-combed, dark-brown hair going to his right side. He's wearing a white shirt with a picture of a wolf on it, pair with muddy-brown shirt, and mix with a pair of sky-blue shoe. Instead of sounding scary or threatening, he instead sounded arrogant, like if as he's sure he's going to win the 25 million-dollar lottery one day.

"Ain't no need to get all "tough" about this meeting here. We're all friends here, now ain't that right?"

"Hmm...", I commented, shaking my head back and forth a bit.

"Enough!", declare the Russia guy, snapping his finger. Instantly afterward, the guards (Oh yeah, I forgot about the guards. Kind of hard to remember since they' re all kind of generic looking. Basically, Mr. Russia's guys are all wearing long, pitch-black coat and pants and are all armed with all I guessing is fully-loaded, very dangerous assault rifle

3: Chapter 2: The New Student

Chapter 2: The New Student

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review. Also, as you can probably tell, English wasn't exactly my best subject. So sorry about all the grammar issue. P.S. The video mentioned here isn't really so don't go searching for it on Youtube..

*snoring* *turning* *alarm ringing*

"What, what, what, what", I repeated as I woke up. I check my phone alarm. 6:15 A.M. "Time to get up", I murmur to myself.

I was sitting on my bed in the dark. The sun has partly risen. I slowly look around. My bed was in the bottom left corner of the small room. To my right was my desk and chair, my little gamer setup, my backpack, and my dirty laundry. Below the bed was the closet and above was the only window to my room. At the upper right corner was the door that lead out my room and into the rest of the house.

I slowly drag myself off my comfortable bed and enter the bathroom.

10 Minutes Later

I loudly went the down stair with my backpack and enter the dinner room. Sitting at the dinner table, eating breakfast was my father, mother, brother, and sister.

My father, John Peterson, was tall, has black hair, and work as police officer for the LAPD (Los Angeles Police Department), which I guess is could of irony since he was living with a semi-criminal. My father also has sort of a grudge against me. Well, not me exactly but Thrill Rider. Last year, I was trying to evade the polices and has enter a construction site.

One of the officer trying to catch me was my dad. He and three other officers has enter the construction along with me. Having no other choice, I has to lead them through the construction site and hope for the best. Construction workers rushed out of the way as we raced through the site. One cop car got trapped in a pothole. The cop car with my dad in it flipped over when I manage to blind him with the dirt coming from my motorcycle. He and his partner accidentally run over a small ramp. After it flip, his air bag went off and crush him. Unfortunately, there was kid who recording the whole incident. He put it on YouTube and I think it got about 10,000 views. That event lead toward my father hating Thrill Rider. He was currently reading the morning paper and drinking coffee.

My mother, Helen Peterson, was medium height, also has black hair, and work at waiter at Hatfield, which was a really fancy restaurant. She was at the table, eating some pancakes

My little brother, Henry Peterson, was short, has black hair, and was the small one of the Peterson family. He was attending Palms Middle School. Henry was the sort of person who really smart, despite only begin in middle school and was one of those people who really only get out when he has too. Henry was studying for a math test, next to him a soggy bowl of Honey Bunches of Oat.

My little sister, Alexis Alex Peterson, was tall, has black hair, and was more boy than girl. She prefer to be call Alex instead of Alexis and dressed so much like a boy that at first sight, you can't even tell she a girl. In fact, I can't remember one time I saw her wear a dress, Even during a formal occasion. She was eating a bowl of cereal when I came down the stair.

"Hey everyone", I said, seating myself at the table and making myself some breakfasts. "How life?"

"Hey Micheal", replied Alex.

"Life is simply wonderful", added Henry.

"Not for Los Angeles", complain dad.

"Another story about Thrill Rider", comment mom.

"Worst than that stupid vigilante." He then threw the morning paper onto the table.

We all look over it. Written in bold letters were the words "Run and Gun Strike Again." Beneath was a picture of a mask man, walking out a bank with what appear to be an automatic weapon and a backpack.

"Run and Gun? What kind of name is that?"

"It what the press call him. Bastard walk into a bank, rob the place, escape on a motorcycle. We try catching him, but as if chasing a motorcycle through Los Angeles with a car wasn't hard enough, bastard shooting us with his weapon.

"Ouch", I replied. "Was anyone shot?"

"No, thank heaven."

Before I has a chance to said anything, mom interrupt.

"Oh look at the time. You three have to get to school. Micheal, hurry up with breakfast and get going. The same go for you two."

The three of us quickly finish our breakfast and left for school. With dad driving Henry and Alex to school, mom staying at home since her shaft wasn't until 7 p.m., and myself driving to school, that was a typical morning at the Peterson.

After about four period of math, history, chemistry( which I fell asleep in accidentally) and P.E., I was hoping to enjoy a peaceful lunch. I has order a bowl of mac and cheese, pay, and went to find a place to sit. I find Ash, sitting by herself and join her. That when Brain came.

"Micheal! Ash! You're never guess what happen!"

Brain's voice could be heard at the other end of the lunch tables as he came running toward.

"Guess what happen! Guess! Guess!"

"Let me take a guess" smirk Ash. "You finally got that job at the morning paper you always wanted."

Stun, Brain ask "How did you know? Have you been following me?"

"I highly doubt she been following you", I comment. "I think it more about the new digital camera you have in your pocket, the morning paper you have in your hand, and the fact that you have letter in your pocket addresses to you from Mr. Wiston, who if I wrong, is chief editor of the Los Angeles Time."

"Well gee, thanks for spoiling the moment guy. Try and tell a couple of friends that Mr. Wiston accept you as a photographer and what do they do, they spoil the moment." Brian then sat angrily in front of us.

"Hey look on the bright side", I said. "You got the job you always wanted. I believe that call for a celebration." I grab my milk carton. I signal Ash to raise her milk carton as well. "To Brian, For getting the job he been saying he get since Freshman year." We then drink.

"Oh shut up", murmur Brian as he cover his head with his arm.

"Hey look", said Ash. She was pointing toward someone I never seen before. The student has nicely combed, blonde hair, was wearing a green jacket with a white shirt underneath and some dark blue pant. He was sitting by himself at the far end of the lunch tables. It wasn't the new student that caught my attention but rather, the fact that Tom Randle and his little "posse" (as I like to call them) was walking toward him.

Tom Randle was the everyday, high school bully. Tom was a light skin teen who wore a white shirt with tan pant but was mainly seen wearing the school jacket, which was blue and white.

For some unknown reason, just because he on both the footballs and wrestling team, he think he the greatest. He use to pick on me but of last year, he stop. Mainly because I punch him in the stomach so hard, he couldn't attend any games. Believe or not, he got so angry after that, he somehow got both football team AND wrestling team to came after me. I told them not to do anything stupid because I knew karate, which was a lie since I actually didn't know karate. I more of a self-taught student. Anyway, short story, they came and I defeated all of them. Ever since, he left me alone.

In Tom Randle's "posse", there were Ralph Wiam, a tan skin, fat teen who was also on the wrestling team. Ralph was bald and wore the same things as Tom minus the tan pant. Wore blue pant instead.

Now before you said anything, I know I make it sound like I insulting Ralph by calling him a fat teen, but he used his "fatness" to his advantage during wrestling. Not easy to defeat a man who know how to use his body as a shock absorber and how to pin you down with it. Trust me, I seen it happen before and I was both amaze and disgusted. Scenes like that I want to forget but can't

The next person in Tom's posse was Nikita Vance. Now Nikita Vance was a pale skin student who wore a black clothes, including a black beanie. Don't ask me how but Nikita somehow figuring out how to pick pocket. She once stole my wallet, Brain's phone, and even Ash's newly brought lock. She left us alone after the beating Tom got. Guess she didn't want her face smash against a car's window. Don't ask.

As they surrounding the new student, I got a bad feeling. "Gotta go", I said as I left Ash and Brian and went to stop Tom and the other. I was almost there but Tom got there first.

"Hello", said Tom to the student. "What do you want", ask the student, coldly. "I just wanted to know if my friend can steal some of your lunch." Ralph then went to take the student's boneless chickens but before he could, the student grab Ralph's wrist. He pull it hard, causing Ralph to fall onto the table. He then press Ralph's head into the table. "Try that again" he shouted. "and I broke your arm!" His shouting drew the attention of everyone around him. Including the school proctor.

The proctor rush over to the scene. "What going on here", he ask, attempting to free Ralph. "Fatso here try to stealing my lunch." The situation started getting even worst. He grab Ralph's fingers and started bending them. Ralph started to scream. The proctor finally manage to free Ralph. He grab the student's shoulder. "You're coming with me." The proctor drag him toward the principle. "Hey! What about fatso?! He attempt to stealing lunch!" The proctor hesitate for a bit, then grab his walkie talkie. "April, can you send someone to pick up an injury student? He at the lunch table." He waited for bit, then got a replied. "Sure, Mike. What happen?"

"A student with some broken fingers."

"What happen?"

"I don't know how to put into words."

The proctor with the student went to the principle while another proctor in a school cart show up. Ralph enter the cart and they drove away. Stun, I slowly made my way back to the table with my friends.

"Okay", I said, back with Ash and Brian. "That isn't something you see very often."

"What, couldn't take a picture of that", comment Ash, nudging Brian.

"I was not expect that", was Brian's only respond.

Lunch continued quickly and with no disturbance. As the lunch bell ring, we said "See Ya" and went to our different classes.

4: Chapter 3: To Run and Gun

C​hapter 3: To Run and Gun

A/N Enjoy and please leave a review. Let me know how I'm doing. Also, the song, Safe and Sound is Micheal's ringtone.

*snoring* *turning* *Safe and Sound*

"Who is calling me", I said to myself, half asleep in my room. I lazily pick up my phone and look at caller I.D. Brian Wane it read.

"Oh Brian, this better be a life or death situation because if it isn't, I going to kill you when we see each other at school."

"Brian, do you have any idea what time it is now?"

"Yes I do", shouted Brian from my phone. "It is time for you to help me meet Mr. Wiston."

"What? How came you can't meet himself?"

"Because from what I heard, Mr. Wiston isn't exactly the type of man who used his inside voice much. Come on Micheal, this will kind of help you in a way."

"In what way will getting up at 7 a.m just to see a man who yell a lot help me?"

"You get to see what it like to be a journalist."

"Yeah, I think Peter Parker already show me that. What else you got?"

"Come on Micheal, you own me."

"I own you? For what?" At this point, I was really just to hang up on Brian and go back to sleep.

"For... you know... that thing..."

"No I don't. Please enlighten me."

"Come on Micheal. Please!"

"Call Ash. I sure she wouldn't mind."

"Can't. Ash went to the mall to spend some time with her mother. Come on Micheal. I need HELP!"

"I know I going to regret this", I thought to myself. "Fine! I meet you at the Los Angeles Time headquarters." Something, being a friend you can rely on is a bad things.

30 Minutes Later

We were standing outside Mr. Jame Wiston's office, hearing him yell at one of his employers. The Los Angeles Time offices were full of reporters, some typing on a computers, others running around with armful of paper.

"I don't know about you but this remind me a lot of Spider man", I said to Brian. He was looking through the pictures he was taken.

"Yeah, sure. Spider man. Micheal what do you think of this picture?" Brian show me a picture of Thrill Rider standing in an alleyway. Around him were four unconscious men.

"It look okay, Brian."

"It can't look "okay", Brian replied with haste. "It has to look flawless. Mr. Wiston is really sensitive about his pictures." Brian continued to look through his pictures.

"Listen Brian", I yell, grabbing Brian by his shoulder. "Unless Mr. Wiston in there is somehow like Mr. J. Jonah Jameson, then you got nothing to worry about."

"Do you hear that yelling", replied Brian, pointing toward the office.

"JUNK! JUNK! JUNK! Can't you get me any "GOOD" pictures! All I see here is WORTHLESS JUNKS! Bobby, you got five seconds to GET OUT OF MY OFFICE. 1, 2, 3, 4-"

"I surprise how that guy doesn't have a sore throat", I joke. Before we knew it, a large man with glass came running out of the office.

"Okay", I said, stun. "Well now I can see why you wanting me to come along."

"Thanks again Micheal."

We then heard some buzzing. It came from the desk right next to us. At the desk sat a thin, attractive woman with neatly combed brown hair. She has on a cyan shirt with an ocean blue skirt.

"Mr. Wiston. That new photographer you hire is here. Should I send him in?"

"Sure Miss. Band, send in the new guy."

"I think that you're cue", I said.

"Swell." Brian then inhale and enter the office. I follow after him.

"So you're the new guy, uh?", ask Mr. Wiston as we enter.

"He does look like J. Jonah Jameson", I thought.

Mr. Wiston has pitch-black hair comb in sort of circle, with a small rectangle mustache. He wore a tan vest with a yellow undershirt and some brown pant. He was sitting at a large brown desk, looking through many pictures of Thrill Rider(me).

"Name James Wiston, kid." Mr. Wiston offer Brian I handshake.

"Uh.. Brian Wane." Brian shook his hand.

During all of this, I just stood in the corner like some weirdo.

"So you tell me you can get me some pictures of Thrill Rider, right?"

"That right, Mr. Wiston."

"Good. The photographer who been taken the shots move a while ago. Show me what you got kid."

Brian took out the photos from his bag and offer them to Mr. Wiston. He begun look through them, throwing aside the one he call "junk".

Now I going to said now, the reason Brian has so many pictures of "Thrill Rider" is for two reasons. Reason one is because I don't really hide form photographer like Batman but don't really just stand there and let them take pictures of me like Super man. Basically, I go to a fight, beat up the bad guys, and ride away on my motorcycle. BUT if there a photographer there who lucky enough to take my picture, then awesome.

Reason two is because I something will call Brian and tell him where there can be some action. That probably against the rules of begin a vigilante and all, but sometimes, when a friend need help, you gotta do things you rather not do.

"Unless, unless, unless,... AH! This will do fine." From where I was standing, the picture look as if I was battling some thugs. I has toss one of the thug into a hot dog stand. Seeing the photo made me laugh since a hot dog fell into the thug's mouth.

"Aw man", I thought. "That was one funny fight."

"ROBERT", Mr. Wiston yell. A tall, dark skin man with enter the office. He has on a tan suit with a red tie.

"Yes Mr. Wiston." Mr. Wiston handed Robert the picture.

"Use this in tomorrow paper. Headline: Thrill Rider the Manic destroy vendor's stand."

"I keep telling you Mr. Wiston. Thrill Rider ain't a manic."

"AND I DEEP TELLING YOU THRILL RIDER IS NOTHING MORE THAN A IDIOT IN A STUPID COSTUME! LEAVE!" Robert angrily left.

Mr. Wiston then look at me. "Hey who are you?"

"Hello", I said. "I friend with Brian. Just pretend I not here."

"Sure. Whatever. Weird kid. You, photographer. Here 50 bucks." Mr. Wiston took out a checkbook and wrote out a check for fifty dollars.

"Thanks you Mr. Wiston. Also, I was wondering if I could have a job here."

"Hmm... Ah sure kid. We need a photographer for that fool, Thrill Rider anyway." I notice that Brian roll his eye.

"50 bucks per photos. Now LEAVE." Brian and I rush out of the office.

"Man, am I glad to be out of that place", I comment. We were leaving the Los Angeles Times building.

"Well, in my opinion, that went awesome. I got a job at the Los Angeles Times."

"Sure. Nothing better than a job with a guy who like to scream til your ears fall right off."

"Okay. Yes, so Mr. Wiston yell a lot. I sure after a while, you get use to it."

"Yeah. You either get use to it or you have to buy some earplugs. Your choice"

"Come on. Let's go to the bank. I got a check to cash in."

"Sure Peter Parker. Let's go."

"Stop with the Spider man reference."

"Hey, it would be a mega Shocker if I stop."

Before I knew it, Brian slap me behind my head. "Stop."

"Fine. Fine. Fine. Let's go."

20 Minutes Later

"Here we are Brian." We has park across the Bank of American.

"Sweet. See you." Brian got out and went to the bank while I stay in the car."

"Okay. See ya. I going to take a nap." I pull the lever and my seat fall back. Before I could take a nap, I saw someone peculiar enter the bank after Brian. He look oddly familiar. He has gotten off from a black motorcycle. Wore a pitch black motorcycle helmet with dark black clothes and has on a backpack"Oh no."

I recognize his picture in the morning paper. "Run and Gun. Brian!" I started running toward the bank but stop. "Micheal Peterson may not be appear to do a whole lot here but Thrill Rider can." I run into a close by alley and begun changing. Lucky for me, I kept for Thrill Rider suit underneath my street clothes.

After changing, I waited a few minutes for Run and Gun to exit. "Come on. I don't have all day." Run and Gun then left the bank. He was holding a SMG. He ran toward his motorcycle. I ran after him.

"THINK FAST", I yell as I tackle Run and Gun onto the floor. He fell to the hard, cold concrete, still gripping his weapon. We got off the ground.

"Thrill Rider", Run and Gun shouted. He aim his gun at me. I grab his weapon and headbutt Run and Gun.

"Ouch", I said, clumsy falling back. "Okay. Note to self. Don't headbutt man with helmet." I think I also stun Run and Gun with that attack but couldn't tell. I was too stun. Run and Gun attempt to hit me with his weapon but I dodge it. Unfortunately, he begun firing off his weapon again. I wasn't close enough to counter.

I jump to cover behind a car. Run and Gun continue to firing as he back up to his bike. He got on his bike and rode away. I try to run after him but it was too late. He rode off. "Okay. That could have gone better."

I then heard sirens going off. "Uh oh. Times to disappear." I ran back into the same alley and change.

5: Chapter 4: Crash

C​hapter 4: Crash

A/N Enjoy and please leave a review.

*heavy breathing*

"Okay, Micheal", I thought to myself. "You got this."

I was attempting to knock over the six, custom-build dummies I has made.

It was quiet Sunday morning and I was at my secret headquarters, which was an abandoned hotel, long forgotten.

I has found the hotel, only last year, when I was driving home from school and has decide to take a new route. The hotel was only about five blocks from my house and look as if the real estate agent even forgot about it. The hotel has a metal fence surrounding all four side. It stood tall and proud, despite all its broken window, rusted door, and darken, stone supports.

"Must have been a fire", I thought to myself.

I rode up to the fence and got out. Looking around, I didn't really see anyone so I didn't have to hide the car. I starting climbing the fence and soon, found myself in what look like the lobby. To my right was the counter where the receptionist would stand and greet guests. To my left look like some sort of fancy restaurant and next to it were the elevators. Up ahead were some dusty stairs. I decided to explore the place. }Hopefully, this place isn't haunted by a ghost", I murmur to myself.

After a bit of exploring, I find the basement. It looked untouched, as if no one has been here in years. Even while the hotel was running. The basement seen dustier than the rest of the hotel, with spider webs covering the doorway and most of the four walls. An idea suddenly occur.

"Maybe, just maybe I could use this as my secret base. I need one anyway since I can't really keep practice at home or school. Sure it going to take some works cleaning and some fixing up to my liking but it would be worth it." So I spend the next few weeks cleaning and modifying. By the time I was done, the basement was rid of all dusts and cobwebs, with some custom build dummies made from stuffs I found in the hotel. Ever since, I been using it as my secret base.

I threw my baton at the dummy, only to see it miss and hit the wall.

"I need a break", I said, getting my baton. I must have been here for half an hour, practicing my aim. I place my baton on a near-by table and went to tend to my motorcycle, hidden in the underground parking lot.

It a funny story of how I actually got my motorcycle, really. Before I could be Thrill Rider, I needed a fast way to get around and I decide to get a motorcycle. I has save enough money from work to buy one but then I realized I couldn't buy one. There was only one thing I could do. Late at night, I broke into a motorcycle store and took a jet-black motorcycle. In my defense, I left the money so I sort of semi-stolen it. The reason I "semi-stole" it was because I rather people not know I have this and so far, it work.

I got myself a bucket fill with water, a huge, round sponge, and some soap and started cleaning my motorcycle. While I wash, I thought.

"Going Micheal, what are you going to do about Run and Gun? Ideas? Ideas?" During this, I started hearing some singing.

"My phone." I stop washing and answer it.

"Hello. Micheal here."

"Hey Micheal, it's Ash. What are you doing?"

"Oh I'm...um... napping. Just wake up.

"Oh. I was wondering if you and I could get some lunch?"

"Sure. I pick you. Say, the usually place?"

"Sweet. I see you soon."

I quickly wash my motorcycle and went home to see Ash.

20 Minutes Later

"So any things happen", I ask, taking a sip of my soda.

"Not really", replied Ash, taking a bite of her cheese pizza.

We were at Rocky New York Style Pizza. A pizza parlor which was my, Brian's, and Ash's favorite place to hang out. We come so often that the people who work here actually know us.

"Everything fine. Just felt like talking to someone."

"Sure." I then had to think of something to said. "So how school?"

Probably not the greatest thing to say but I has to said something.

"Seriously Micheal? You ask about school."

"Pardon me for that but I can't really find a conversation starter that fit here. If you happen to find one, please tell."

"...Okay you win that one. Anyway, how do you think Brian doing as a photographer?"

"I don't know. It the job he always wanted yet, if you meet Mr. Wiston, you could of feeling like driving away from Los Angeles and never coming back."

"Wow he that bad."

"You ever seen Spider-man."

"Which one?"

"Anyone really. Anyway, Mr. Wiston is basically much like J. Jonah Jameson. Yell a lot and hate the guy who fighting bad guy."

"You mean he hate Thrill Rider?"

"Yeah but who care?"

"Well me for one. Thrill Rider been helping the people of Los Angeles and still, the paper describe he as a monster."

"Oh let something bad happen", I thought.

That a bad thing to think and all, but in situation like this, I look for anyway out.

"I mean like, sure Thrill Rider damage a few things when fighting but still."

"Ash, listen okay. The paper may insult Thrill Rider but no one listen, okay?"

"Sure I guess."

"Now come on. Let's try and enjoy a peaceful lunch."

The rest of the day went on smoothly.

Later that day

I sat up looking up the night sky, wondering when I should go to bed. It was about 1 in the morning and there hasn't been any action. Plus, my mask was stating to bother me.

"I have to sew a new mask", I thought. "Might as well do that now."

I went over the the fire escape and started climbing down it. As I got onto the ground, I heard two familiar sound. Police sirens and gunfire.

"Time to go", I said with haste. I rush over to my motorcycle and went after the sounds.

As I enter the chase scene, I saw Run and Gun firing off his weapon at a pair of cop cars. The cop cars couldn't go that fast since the driver and passenger would taking cover behind the dashboard. With its, Run and Gun zoom away.

I zoom after him. The sound of my motorcycle must have been heard by Run and Gun, as he started shooting me. I has to think fast. If one of Run and Gun's bullet would to hit me, I would crash and probably break every bones in me. I turn my attention toward the sidewalk. It was empty of people.

"Okay. Let this work."

I drove my motorcycle onto the sidewalk and use park cars, trashcans, trees, and whatever else to block the coming bullets.

"DON'T GET SHOT! DON'T GET SHOT" I replied.

The chase continued for a little while. Then Run and Gun stop shooting.

"Ouch. Out of ammo", I yell. Should have kept track of have must ammo you got."

I drove back onto the street. "Think fast!"

I drove right up to Run and Gun and threw my baton onto the wheel of Run and Gun. His motorcycle flip over and Run and Gun came flying off it. He crash onto the street. I stop a few feet away from him.

"Really to surrender", I ask.

"No I ain't", replied Run and Gun. He aim his gun at me.

"Oh come on. No ammo, remember?" That when I saw him reload. He reach into his backpack and pull out a clip.

He drop the empty clip in his gun and replace it with a fully loaded one.

"Time to go", I shouted, driving away.

Run and Gun starting firing endlessly at me. I took cover behind a park car. Bullets came flying through the car. Broken pieces of glass fell on me.

"Really hope the person who own this car has insurance." I then heard siren.

"Cops. Little late as you ask me."

I witness the cops exit the car but before they could pull out their pistol, Run and Gun firing at them. They took cover behind the doors of the cars.

"Okay. Micheal, you got one baton left. You got one shot at this. You practice this for 30 minutes."

I stood up and threw my baton at him. It spun around in the air before passing around Run and Gun's head.

"What the", he shouted.

Distracted, I ran toward him. Run and Gun notice me and aim at me. Before he could shoot, I grab his wrist and twisted it. Run and Gun scream in pain and I headbutted him. We both stumble back, both stun.

"Argh! You said you wouldn't headbutted a man with a helmet and the next, you headbutted a man with a helmet. I going to get a bump soon."

Like before, Run and Gun attempt to shoot me but I kick his gun out of his hand. I then punch him hard in the head. He fell over.

"Ouch", I yell, shaking my hand. "This had been one painful fight."

"Freeze", yell a police officer. He along with three other officers would aiming their gun at me.

"Oh come on! I just take out a wanted criminal!"

"You're under arrest", he yell. The four of them were slowly closing me on me. I smile.

"Okay you win." I turn around, place my hand on my head, and got on my knee.

As the officer started putting handcuff on me, I elbow him in the hip and bump him in the way of the other officers. I then grab Run and Gun's gun.

Separating the clip from the gun, I toss both at the cops and went to get my motorcycle. As soon as I reach, it drove away before the cops could figuring what happen.

"Well that wasn't so bad", I though. "Time to head home. Go to bed and or get some ice packs. I wonder that out later."

6: Chapter 5: Welcome James Westen

Chapter 5: Welcome Jame Westen

A/N I'm starting to wonder if I'm putting enough details in the story and what you think of the fight scene. Leave leave a review and tell. Thanks and enjoy. Also, Mr. Hall was an actually teacher I has. Mr. Hall, if by chance you read this, then hello.

It was a Monday morning and my head was on top of the counter in science class. I was still trying to recover from last night fight.

"Micheal, are you okay", ask Ash. She was sitting next to me.

"Not exactly", I replied.

"I feeling as if every bones in me is broken. Not to mention the bump I have on my head."

"What happen yesterday?"

"...Ash. I'm in too much pain to answer. Please ask later."

"Okay." Ash then went back to her work. I remain with my head on the counter.

At the moment, Mr. Justin Hall enter the room. Mr. Hall was tall, dark skin, wore glasses, and for some unknown reason, also wore a suit.

His classroom was big, with small counter that serve as students' desks and one long counter in front that serve as his desk. On the wall were mostly past students' works, with cabin above them. The cabins filled with equipments required to do fun science experiments.

"Hello students", he said in a bold, loud voice. "Today I have a special announce."

"The test is next week", yell Tom with enthusiasm.

I guess I forgot to mention Tom was also in this class too. He sit three seats ahead of me, between a pair of cheerleaders.

"No", replied Mr. Hall. "The test will still be on Thursday."

*angry groan*

"The real announce", he continue "is that we have a new student."

He then open the green door. A tall student then enter.

The student has neatly combed blonde hair, was wearing a blue and white shirt with some dark blue pant. He was on an angry face.

"Hey I remember you", yell Tom.

"Ash, please lift my head."

"What?!"

"Lift my head up. I want to see who it is."

"Uh. Sure."

Ash gently lift my head and I see the student. The same student who broke Ralph's finger.

"Students. I would like you all to meet Mr. James Westen."

Mr. Hall then notice us.

"Miss Varson, what are you doing?"

"Nothing", replied Ash with haste, dropping my head.

"Ouch", I yell.

"Oh, sorry Micheal."

Now I not really sure but for a second, I thought I heard James said something like idiot.

"Mr. Peterson, please get your head off the table. This is a bad impression for James."

He then turn toward James.

"I'm sorry about this Mr. Westen but I have only one seat available. It by those two."

"He pointing toward us, isn't he."

"Yep."

"Swell."

James angrily made his way toward us. As he got to our table, he drop his light gray backpack and sat by Ash.

Normally, when a new student came, I would usually said something to welcome that new student but I figure it would be impolite to said something with my head face down.

"What up with the idiot face down", said Jame, staring at me.

"Okay well has to be the worst way to greet someone", I thought.

I lift my head up.

"Well hello", I said, offering a handshake.

James did nothing.

"Okay. Well at this point, I was hoping you shake my hand. You know, it begin polite and all. A whole lot better than what you first said."

Still James did nothing.

"Okay. Well this is just getting awkward."

I slowly went back to my seat.

"A for effort", Ash murmur to me.

"Yeah. And for him, A for rudeness."

"I hope you know I can hear you", said James.

"Oh. Uh... Any chance you forget that?"

"Yeah sure. Knowing me and you, I could easily break your bones."

"Yeah, my bones are going broken. What else you got?"

"Leave me alone."

James then took out a pencil and a sheet of paper and started taking down the notes on the board.

"And I thought having Tom in this class was bad enough but now." *sigh*

I started copying down the notes on the board as well.

A While Later

"Seriously", ask Brian. "You have that kid in your class. The one who-"

"Broke Ralph's finger", I interrupt. "Yeah I know. I also know he isn't a kind man."

It was passing period and we would walking down the busy hallway.

"What I want to know is how he isn't suspense or even expel", I wonder.

"What I want to know is what is Ralph doing following Jame", Brian said.

"What?"

"Look." Brian pointed upward, pass the crowd of students and at Jame.

Jame was lending against a wall, just causal reading a hard cover book. He look as if he was waiting for someone. A few feet away from him were Tom, Ralph and a few any students. My guess, Tom's friend who wanted revenge for what happen to Ralph, who by the look of it, has his right hand in bandage.

"Oh Brian, I got a bad feeling about this."

"For Jame?"

"No. For Tom and his friends."

We stood there as we watch Tom grab the book from Jame's hand.

"Thanks for the bo-"

Before Tom could finish, Jame instantly punch him. Tom fell back toward the crowd. The students around gasp, stun at what happen. Jame then slowly pick up his book. He place his foot on Tom's chest.

"Try that again and I won't go easy on you."

One of Tom's friend attempt to rescue him but Jame saw what was coming and kick him. Stun, Jame grab the back of his shirt and shove him into the wall. He then came charging toward Ralph and the other two. He first grab the shoulder of one friend and knee him in the stomach. He then punch him and he fell onto the ground. The other swung toward Jame but he block it.

Jame strike the elbow of his attacker and swung his arm around. He started to scream but Jame quickly finish him off. He look around for a bit, at the crowd of students. They all look scream.

"That going to leave a mark", I comment, looking at the four students moaning in pain.

"He fight about as well as you do Micheal. Maybe better."

"Gee thanks. Well if for some reason, Jame start pounding on you, don't call me."

A proctor rush from behind us and went to confront Jame.

"What happen here", she ask.

Jame simply stood there, almost as if nothing happen. He cold, hearty spoke.

"I defensed myself. Pretty boy, tubby, and the rest attack me and I defend."

The proctor turn her attention toward the moaning students.

"I will said I defended myself quite fiercely."

"Any more fiercely and you kill them", I murmur to Brian.

"Shh!"

"Came to the office", the proctor demanded.

"Sure. What about them?"

"I call it in." The proctor attempt to walk Jame to the office but he stop her.

"I can walk myself."

The crowd move out of the way as Jame slowly made his way toward them.

I follow him, with Brian following me.

"What are you doing?"

"I going with Jame to the office."

"And can I ask you why?"

"Because I curious. For a guy who beat up four students and broke another student's fingers, and who now going to the office, he remaining freaky calm."

Brian just follow with his mouth open a little. I attempt to close it but its fell back down.

"Brian close your mouth. You look weird walking with an open mouth. Not to mention there a chance you may swallow a fly."

Outside the Front Office

"Micheal, passing period is going to end in two minutes. I think we should leave. I rather not be late for class."

"Not yet. I want to see what happen."

"Here a short summary of what going happen. We're going to be late for fourth period, Jame is going walk out there door, highly ready to punch someone, us, and we're going to the nurse office."

I was going to comment on that but Jame exit the office, looking cold. He stop when he saw me.

"I thought I told you to leave me alone."

"Well, pardon me for not listening. We just wanted to see how you're doing."

"Don't mention me", Brian whisper to me. "Pretend I ain't here."

I shook my head. "Fine."

I turn back toward Jame. That when he started walking toward me.

"I'm going to hate this", I thought.

Jame try and punch me with a right hook but I block it.

"Whoa! I came in peace!"

"I doubt that." Jame then hit me with his other hand.

The hit blind me and I fell back a little. Jame try to kick me but I grab his foot and pull it back. Jame fell onto the ground. Jame quickly got back into his feet. I was ready for a fight but Jame didn't look like he was going to fight me.

"Look like I'm not the only here who can fight. See you later Micheal." Jame then left.

Confuse, I look at Brian.

"Do you know what just happen?"

"Yeah. Here a hint. A minute and fifty-five seconds pass."

"What?"

The bell then rang.

"We're late for fourth period."

"Yeah and who fault is that. I see ya later." Brian then ran toward his fourth period. I was still confuse on what just happen.

I must have stood there for a another minutes before walking toward fourth period.

7: Chapter 6: Iron Fire

Chapter 6: Iron Fire

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review​

*police sirens* *yelling*

"Okay", I thought to myself. "This isn't how I picture my night to go."

Not more than 30 minutes did I suit up. I put on my Thrill Rider suit, along with the newly sew mask, and rode away looking for trouble. I only got about two blocks away from the hotel when I started hearing sirens. I turn around and saw two cop cars behind me.

"Swell", I murmur.

"Thrill Rider", I heard. "I order you to stop your vehicle and get on the ground!"

"Yeah well I order you to stop chasing me, yet I don't see that happening!" I then increase the speed of my motorcycle.

"I will NOT repeat myself, again! Thrill Rider, I ORDER you to stop your vehicle and get on the ground!"

I needed a quick escape. I could use the alley but the cops would just follow me through. Climbing a fire escape wouldn't work either. They just follow me and I couldn't leave my vehicle behind. It cost a lot to "buy" and beside, my fingerprints were all over it. No, I has to think of something. An idea then appear in front of me.

I was heading toward an intersection. I could easily dodge my way toward the cars while the cops get struck in traffic.

"Time to go", I yell, waving toward the officers. I drove at high speed toward the intersection. I felt the wind rushing past my head as I race toward the line of cars, away from the cops.

"Well this wasn't so bad. Now for some action."

I must have only drove for about 10 minutes until I heard siren.

"Oh, come on!."

I look behind me and saw four cops cars. I quickly took cover behind some trash cans and hope the cops would go away. Luckily, they did.

"Wonder where they going."

This is probably a bad idea and all but I follow them. Staying one street away and following the loud, flashing sirens.

Eventually, they drove up to what look like a gated community. Locked and abandoned from the look of it. All the officers exit the cars and went up to the rusted, black gate.

"What do we do now", ask one officer.

"Try and keep him here", replied another. "We're going to need reinforcement for this guy."

"What guy", I wonder, hiding only around the corner. I look around and saw another entrance. I was about to go but stop.

"To call Brian or not to call Brian." I call Brian.

"Mr. Wane, 462 Town Avenue. Far end of the street. Gated community."

"On it", Brian replied, hanging up.

"Now all I have to do is wait. Hopefully, Brian get here get SWAT."

15 Minutes

"Hello Mr. Thrill Rider", Brian said, camera around his neck.

"What took you so long", I replied.

"Never mind. Don't answer that. Come on, I find us an entrance."

We went around the side until we came to a brick walls. I got a running start and grab onto the wall. I extended my hand and lift Brian over. We enter some sort of courtyard. He started taking pictures of the scene.

I will admit, it kind of look like the hotel I use. The courtyard was surrounding by the walls of apartments. All of them appeared burn and cracks. The windows has long broke. On the ground were empty glass bottles, cardboard boxes flatten, and some empty packs of cigarette. In the center stood a destroyed fountain, cracked and darken with age.

"What do you think the cops are here", ask Brian. He was still taking pictures.

"I do not know. But whatever it is, it big. They mention something about reinforcement."

As we continued to look around, I heard a faint sound. As if someone was walking up some old, wooden stairs. I look up at the windows but saw nothing. I walk over to Brian.

"Stay on guard", I warn him. "I don't think we're alone."

"Who in their right mind would want to be here? Well, beside the two of us and the cops out there."

"Yeah. Why hadn't SWAT arrive yet?"

We then heard glass broken. High above us stood a man. He has on what look like a suit of armor, made completely from iron. It appear to be gold color. The man has on a wielding mask, with a huge, square sized window so he could see. He has something in his hands but I couldn't see.

"Thrill Rider", he shouted. "Oh this is even better."

The man then aim his weapon at us. Now I could see it was a SMG.

"Watch out", I yell grabbing Brian and pulling him behind the fountain.

"What going on", yell Brian, covering his head from the falling stone.

"Stay here", I said. I then rush toward the wall with the man. He stop shooting Brian and begun shooting at me. I felt the dirt and grasses hitting my face as I continued toward the wall.

As I reach the wall, the four officers rush in.

"They must have heard the gunfire", I thought. "Watch out!"

My warning was too late. The man saw the officers and begun firing at them. They all rush to cover. Behind the fountain, with Brian.

"Well bright side, none of them were shot."

While the man was shooting at the five, I look for stairs. I saw some stair and started running up them. I didn't stop until I was sure the man and I were on the same floor. I then follow the sound of the gunfire. At the end of a long hallway, I found him, shooting.

"Think fast", I yell, running toward him. Before I has a chance to attack, he spun around and shot off fire.

"Argh", I yell, falling back. The man begun walking toward me, aiming his flame thrower. "Call me Iron Fire", he said.

Before he could pull the trigger, I heard someone yell "OPEN FIRE!"

I then saw little bits of flashes came off the man's suit. "Thanks you SWAT team", I whisper. Disturbed by the flying bullets, I jump up onto my feet and punch Iron Fire's as hard as I can.

Now I will said, I Did Not know what I was thinking. Punching a man in a complete iron suit with my bare hand. Not my smartest move.

"Ouch", I said, jumping back. I was shaking my hand. Iron Fire then shoot some sort of liquid at me. It got all over me.

"Oh Gross! What is this?!" A bit got into my mouth. It taste like... like... corn oil.

"Corn oil", shouted Iron Fire. "Cheap and exactly flammable!"

Before I knew it, Iron Fire shot off his flamethrower and a trail of fire was rushing toward me. I ran with all my might away, with Iron Fire slowly follow behind.

"Coward" I heard Iron Fire yell.

Normally I replied with something like "Better to be a live coward than a dead one", but I was focus on not getting burn.

The fire continued to chase me. My suit was dripping oil. As I ran, I notice how the building was started to catch on fire.

"Now probably the best time to escape", I thought. I started running toward the stairs but stop suddenly. Ahead of me were hallways filled with fire. Smokes was starting to fill the hallways too. I started feeling weak. My lungs begun filling with smokes.

*coughing*

I then started hearing footstep. I look behind me and saw Iron Fire, easily walking through the fire and smoke filled hallways, weapons ready.

"Before you arrive, I spread the place with corn oil. This is how I fight." He then firing at me. I quickly hid in a small room.

"Can't fight in here", I thought. "Have to escape."

Looking for any form of escape, I saw a small window at the end of the hallways. Iron Fire was still shooting yet I couldn't stay here much longer.

"Please let this not be a mistake."

I took off running for the window. As soon as Iron Fire saw me, he begun shooting bullets and squirting oil at me. I has nearly fainted from the smoke, before I could jump straight through the window and onto some trashcans. Litters cover me as I look back at the burning building. Iron Fire look out the window and aim his weapons at me. He pull the trigger but nothing came out, expect for a bit of oil.

"Guess you use up of all your ammo", I smirk. I then slowly wobble away, injury.

8: Chapter 7: A Hot Battle

Chapter 7: A Hot Battle

A/N​ Please leave a review so I know how I doing. I feel like as if I not putting enough details in the story. Anyway, enjoy.

One Hour Later

I was coughing badly as I enter my bedroom window. I slowly crawl toward my bed and lay there.

"Who was that guy", I though, removing my mask. I only laid there for about five minutes before I heard footstep coming up the was a knock on my door.

"Micheal", said my mom, "Honey, are you okay? You sound sick." She then open the door.

Since I was still in my suit, I has to think fast. I cover myself with my bed cover.

"Mom! I'm not dress!"

"Oh!" Mom close the door. "Micheal, are you feeling okay?"

"I'm fine Mom. I just take a little cough medicine. Now please go away."

"Okay."

I remove the cover from my face.

"I think I going to need a little more than cough medicine", I said.

The Next Day at School

"What up, Micheal", said Brian, patting my back.

"I'm okay", I replied, keeping my mouth shut. Brian's pat on the back send pain up my back.

It was only a day after the battle with Iron Fire and I felt dead. Pain in every parts of me and I think I even still have some smoke in my lungs.

"Micheal, look at what I got!" Brian then shove a bunch a photos in my face.

I looked through them. They show the abandoned building with all the litters, which is now destroy, Iron Fire firing off his weapons, the cops rushing in, and Thrill Rider running up the stairs.

"Can I get a high five", he yell, raising his hand high in the air.

I jump up and high five him. As I did, pain rush through my hand.

"Ouch", I whisper.

"Micheal, are you feeling okay? You look terrible."

"What?!"

"I not kidding, man. You look exhausted and beat up. What happen?"

"Oh, I uh... just stay up most of the night. You know, lot of homework and all."

"Okay, sure. Anyway, have you seen Ash? I want to ask her something."

I though for a bit. "Hmm. Not really. I didn't see her class earlier. What did you want to ask her? I could tell her."

"Oh, nothing that important."

"Okay. Sure. Whatever you said."

Brian then stop to get a drink.

As he drink, I look around. I was staring at a pigeon flying around when someone jump on me.

Out from instinct, I grab my attacker's back and toss him over. Brian stop drinking and cough up water.

"Micheal, what going on?"

I was about to attack my attacker but stop. I recognize him.

He has light brown hair, was thin and tall, and wore a plaid green shirt with dark blue jean.

I light punch him.

"Ah", he yell. Hey, it me! Easy Micheal!"

"George I know it you. I punch you because,like Brian, I has told you NOT TO GRAB ME!​"

George Ramley was both a friend of my and a neighbor who live only about a block away from me. Now like Nikita Vance of Tom Randle's group, George Ramley was the thief of my group. Sort of like Robin Hood, George steal to help people. When Nikita stole our things, George stole Tom's and his friends' things. Of course, he did return them but not before Tom got an F on a math test.

Now to this day, I still not sure how George learn all this but like me, I figure it best if I don't ask. After a while, George stop his thieving way but I ask him to use it again. I wanted to know what was going on with James. Guy about as cold as the North Pole. Doesn't smile, fight everything I see him and yet, he still here.

"Well Micheal, you sure send me on a quest. I ask around and couldn't find much about Jame. Beside knowing which classes he taken and that he has a sister, I find nothing about him. Keep to himself."

"Swell", I said. "Well thank for the help George. I see you Rocky?"

"If you're buying, then yeah, expect me there."

George causal walk away, leaving me stump.

"Wasn't what you were hoping for, isn't it", said Brian.

"Brian, you're dripping water."

"Oh sorry." Brian wipe his mouth dry.

"Later Brian", I said suddenly.

"I see you at Rocky. Maybe you see Ash there and you could ask that question."

"Yeah, maybe I could. See ya."

We went our separate way.

Later That Day

*yelling* *gunfire*

"Sorry but I don't think these belong to you", I said, tackling a robber onto the ground before knocking him out. I grab the money in his hand.

"Hold on mate", said the other robber. He was reloading the shotgun in his hand. As he finish, he aim at me and fire.

I was in a small store, saving it from begin rob by two mask men. One was armed with a shotgun while the other has an iron pipe. As the store owner was giving up the cash, I jump in and tackle one down. Now for the other one.

As he fire, I took cover behind a display of can foods. A shotgun shell destroy the display and I felt bit of can beans fall on me.

"Aw man. I hate bean." I took a damage can of bean and toss it at my assailant. Bits of beans fell from the can, catching the shooter's attention. As he watch the flying beans, I rush toward him and punch him. He fell onto the counter and before he could recover, I grab his back and uppercut him. He fell down, unconscious.

"Here", I said, offering the owner his money. "I think this belong to you. Feel free to call the cop now."

I ran out the store, jump onto my motorcycle and quickly rode away.

"Now that fight I can enjoy", I said to myself. "Not a fight with a man in an iron suit shooting fire and bullets. Wonder if I ever see him again."

I continued to ride around Los Angeles, looking for any sign of trouble but beside the previous fight, nothing.

I started riding at about 10 at night and it was about 11 when the action stop.

"Wow. This is a really exciting night."

I was really to go home and sleep but something caught my attention.

"FIRE! FIRE! SOMEONE CALL 911!​"

I left my motorcycle and ran to see who was yelling. I saw a man in what I think is pajama, running through the street. His face was darken, like as if he was running toward smoke. I stop him.

"Easy sir! Tell me what going on."

"A BUILDING ON FIRE! PEOPLE ARE TRAPPED INSIDE!"

"Go get help", I shouted. "I go to the fire and do what I can!"

I left the man and rush toward the burning building.

The second I turn the corner, I face a tall building, quickly catching fire. I heard people yelling from inside.

"HELP US!"

Without thinking, I rush in. Covering my mouth, nose, and eyes, I look around for anyone.

"No one", I though. I rush up a burning staircase, onto the second floor. Still I saw no one.

I continued the process until I reach the top floor. I saw no one the whole time. That when I realize something. I didn't hear any more shouting. There was no yelling. No shouting for help.

"What going on", I though.

I was trying to figuring what was happening but something interrupt me. Someone shot me from behind. I fell down onto the ground.

I look at my back and took a breath of relief. My plating save my life.

I look behind and saw my shooter. There stood at the far end was Iron Fire, weapons ready in hand.

"Ready for Round 2", Iron Fire shouted. He then aim his flamethrower at me. "Cause it time to feel the heat!"

Fire shot out from his flamethrower as he begun walking toward me.

I was trap. This time, there was no window I could jump out. I has to face the heat.

"Bring it on", I yell. I brought out my two batons and bang them together.

"You honestly think that hurt me! I'm protected!"

"Hoping it does!"

Without thinking, I charge toward Iron Fire with my batons. He continued with his attack, fire shooting out from his weapon, burning the building we were in.

As I got closer to Iron Fire, I jump and grab a light above him and swing over him. As soon as I was behind him, I attack his leg, hoping they were protected. The were protected.

"Okay. New plan."

I waited until Iron Fire face me before gripping onto his weapon and attacking his mask. Thinking maybe I could hit it right off and attack his face, I strike his mask with all my might.

My baton did nothing beside cause my arm to shake.

"My turn", said Iron Fire, blasting me with his flamethrower. I back up quick but bump into a crumpling wall.

"Whoa", I yell, looking down. Fire was causing the whole building to fall apart. I then got an idea.

"The fire is causing the whole building to fall apart", I thought. I turn back toward Iron Fire.

"Time I take you down, Iron Fire", I shouted. "By using the very fire you use."

"What", ask Iron Fire.

I then rush toward him.

Iron Fire started shooting me with both fire and bullets so I ran through the burning walls, smashing through them all. As I ran through the walls, the building around started fall apart even more. Parts of the ceiling was begin to fall, along with parts of the floors.

"Sweet", I thought. "Almost there. And NOW!" I charge toward Iron Fire. He turn to shoot me but latch onto him. Gripping onto his waist, I climb onto him.

"What are you doing", he yell.

"Bringing you down", I replied. "Literally."

As I grip onto him, the floor below us broke, and soon after, we fell down onto the floor below. As we fell onto the floor below us, it broke and we fell downward again.

We kept falling until we reach the last floor. As I reach the last floor, I got up and then started pulling the unconscious Iron Fire away.

"Place is going burn down and I get the feeling you don't want to be bury in the burning debris."

I manage to pull Iron Fire far from the building before it fully collapse.

"My weight plus my very heavy iron suit plus the burning floor equal an unconscious bad guy. Best math equation ever!"

It was only a short time before I started hearing sirens. I ran, leaving Iron Fire behind for the cops to find him.

"Well that was fun", I said running toward my motorcycle.

9: Chapter 8: First Impression

Chapter 8: First Impression

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

It was a wet and cold Friday for Los Angeles. The day has gotten off to a bad start and wasn't getting much better.

After my fight or fall with Iron Fire, I headed home and and took a shower. Afterward I slept until it was time to wake up. That when the bad luck started.

I had discovered that I has ran out of clothes to wear. With no clothes to wear to school, I has two options. Either go to school in my pajama or wear my middle school P.E. cloth to school since my high school P.E. cloth was also dirty. I decided to wear my P.E. cloth to school instead of going wearing my pajama.

They surprisingly fit me but still, it was embarrassing. Then an hour before school ended and the weekends started, it rain. I was refreshing though, after begin in a burning building.

I thought with the rain that the day was getting better but it just got worst. I was getting into my car to go home but as I was leaving, I got a flat tire. Now because Brian and Ash left, I has to call my mom and wait for a pick up. It was freezing in my P.E. cloth.

Now I was sitting under a tree across from the school, waiting. As I was sitting across the tree, I notice someone standing by a streetlight, in the rain. It was a girl.

She was tall with light skin, has wavy blonde hair, and has a pair of beautiful eyes behind a pair of cute glasses. She wore a thin blue jacket with white sleeves and has on some dark blue jean. I recognized her from before.

In was late in the morning and I was heading toward the library to see if I could use the computer there. I has to finish a presentation and with only 7 minutes per passing period, I has to run. On my way there, I pass George's classroom and stop to see if George was there. That when I saw her.

She was sitting in a desk in the back so I guess she was new to the place.

"Whoa", I though. "Who that?"

I then realizing that I didn't have that much time left so I continued with my run to the library.

Before I knew it, without thinking or planning, I walk up to her.

"Huh, excuse me but you know you can stand under that tree, right?"

Now I know that isn't much of a conversation starter but like I said, I wasn't thinking ahead and that was all I could think to said.

She turn around and face me with a smile.

"No thanks", she replied.

"Okay." I went back to the tree.

"Okay. Bad start."

I started thinking of something else to said but nothing came to mind. It probably wouldn't have work anyway since an SUV slowly pull up to the girl. The girl enter the vehicle and drove away.

I slowly wave at her.

She then wave back at me.

I stare at the girl til it was out of sight. I didn't even notice my mother driving up beside me. The car's horn brought me back.

"Come on Micheal", my mom said. "Stop standing in the rain. You get sick like that."

"Yeah, sure mom."

I grab my wet backpack and got in the car. We then headed home.

10: Chapter 9: The Black Archer

​Chapter 9: The Black Archer

A/N Enjoy and please leave a review.

The Next Morning

"Run! RUN! RUN!", I kept repeating. Ash and I would begin follow by a huge dog-like monster.

The creature was huge, with sharp claws and teeth, ready to kill us instantly. It has incredible speed and no matter what we did, it came running toward us with its teeth. It wasn't long before it has me in its grip. A second later, I was dead.

"Oh", yell Brian, falling back onto my bed.

It was a peaceful Saturday morning and to start the day, I invited Ash and Brian to my room so we could play some Resistance: Fall of Man.

"Micheal, you just got destroy", commented Brian.

I pause the game.

"In my defense", I plead", it isn't easy to throw a grenade behind you while running away from an alien dog wanted to eat you."

I then turn my attention toward the girl sitting beside me.

"Beside Ash, where were you? The howler was chasing me. You could have shot it or something."

"Sorry Micheal but I was more focus on keeping the other soldiers safe."

"Okay, let see how well that go."

I then press circle on my red PS3 controller and watch Ash, along with the five soldiers, run around shooting the howler.

While Ash was shooting wildly, I handed my controller to Brian.

"Brian, I heading downstairs for a snack. You want something?"

"Sure. I take some chocolate covered almonds."

"Okay." I exit my room and headed for the kitchen.

I was almost to the kitchen when I stop. The morning newspaper on the table caught my attention.

In bold lettering was the title "Thrill Rider vs Iron Fire. Battle destroyed building." Below was a picture of us fighting in the burning building. I started reading the article.

"Late last night, firemen and officers were called to the scene of yet, another burning building. When firemen and officers arrived at the scene, they were stun. Beside a pile of ashes that once was an old building laid the unconscious Iron Fire, now known as Danny Simpson. Danny is now in police custody and will stand on trail for attempted murders and for arson.

Police conclude that the only man foolish enough to have fought Danny in his iron suit was Thrill Rider."

"Foolish", I though. "Gee thanks." I continue reading the article.

"We may have caught the criminal wanted for the destruction of two building", said Officer John Peterson. "But we haven't caught the other criminal, Thrill Rider. Instead of calling 911, he rushed into a burning building and complete destroyed it."

"Pardon me for not yelling at Danny and asking him to surrender. I didn't exactly have about three other officers with me to look threatening."

I look at the name of the photographer, expecting to see Brian's name so I could offering him some chocolate-covered almonds along with a hit from the newspaper. When the saw the name, I grab the newspaper and ran up to Brian.

"Brian", I yell, bursting into my room. "Guess what!"

As I burst into my room, I saw Brian and Ash playing Resistance.

"Hey, what going on?"

"Sorry Micheal", said Ash," but you were taken a while and I has kill the howler."

"Sweet. How many soldiers survive?"

"Four."

"Wow. I remember there begin five soldiers."

"Don't said anything", she plead.

"Sure. Anyway, Brian look at this." I shove the paper into Brian's chest.

"Ouch. Easy there."

"Look at who took the picture."

Brian started scanning the paper until he saw the photographer's name. When he saw the name, he look as if he would faint.

Eventually, Ash took the paper and look at at herself.

Under the photo in bold letters was "Photo by James Westen."

"James Westen", she said.

"Look like you got competition", I said to Ash after slapping Brian a few times.

Brian woke up from his stun look

"Buy why? Guy arrived at school only two weeks ago and now he a photographer for the Los Angeles Times."

"You could ask Jame", Ash suggest. "I mean, Micheal could ask him."

"Hey, how did I suddenly get involve in this?"

"Brian told me about your last encounter with Jame. You seem to be the only one who may stand a chance of not going to the nurse office."

"Swell. Fine I go. But Brian, you're coming with me."

"Do I have much of a choice?"

"Nope."

"Okay."

Sunday Night.

"Think Micheal", I said jumping onto a nearby building.

"What are you going to said to Jame so he won't hit you? I could just ask him but he probably just punch me." I continued to think of a way to ask Jame.

It was a late Sunday night, only yesterday did Ash suggest me asking Jame about the whole photo situation. I kept thinking about what I was going to said.

Frankly, I was hoping either I or Jame would be sick that day so I wouldn't have to talk to him, but I get feeling that wouldn't happen. Mainly because, in my opinion, I have a strong immune system. Fun fact, I haven't been sick since I caught the flu back in fourth grade.

"Maybe I could offer him something? That could work. But why? Maybe a bag of cookies?"

I kept on thinking until something stop me.

I couldn't help but shake the feeling like someone was watching me. I look around but saw nothing but the usually building, fire escapes, and pigeons.

"I must be getting sleepy", I though. "Time I head home." I was getting feeling tired anyway.

I was heading toward the fire escape and my motorcycle when something flew pass by. I manage to dodge it but not before it left a small wound in my arm. Blood started leaking out.

"What the-?"

I then started hearing running and look up. A man in a black mask was running toward me. He has a black bow in his hand and a quiver filled with black arrows attach to his back.

Before I could react, he ran right up to me and punch me right in the face. I fell over. He then stomp on my chest.

"Surrender and I make this quick", he said, aiming a black arrow at me.

"Yeah, no thanks", I replied with haste. I hit the side of his bow with my right hand. Instead of killing me, the arrow hit the roof, beside me.

"Too close for comfort", I said. With my other hand, I grab the attacker's foot and roll away. The man fell. While down, I took out my batons and stomp on his chest.

"Surrender and I make this quick", I repeated, baton pointed at his face.

Now I could see his mask better. It was the type of mask biker wore when riding through rough terrain.

"Seen I underestimate you", he replied.

"A lot of people do", I comment with a smirk.

"Not anymore." He smile.

I didn't know what to expect. So as I attempt to knock him out, he counter his bow and retrieve the arrow he previous shot. He attempt to slice me with me but I jump back.

The archer quickly got up before I could knock him back down. As he got back on his feet, he ready his bow and arrow.

I stood my ground, clanging my batons together, ready for what was coming.

Time seen to slowly pass as I stare into the eyes of my foe. The air seen cold. Even the sound of the cars passing by and the pigeons watching stop. Everything seen focus on this fight.

With all my speed, I charge at him, baton high in the air. I was halfway toward him before he fire off a single arrow. It hit my baton and I drop it. Before I could retrieve it, the black archer rush toward me and strike me with his bow. I fell back. I slowly clear my head but as I did, the archer punch in hard in the stomach. Stun and wounded, he grab me by the shoulder and toss me to the ground, like I was a sack of potatoes.

I roll away before quickly giving to my feet.

"Okay", I said. "Was not expecting that."

The archer, without saying anything, fire another arrow at me. I has to use my last baton to block the arrow. It fell from my hand and I was defenseless.

Defenseless and clueless, I once again rush toward him.

As I charge toward him, he ran toward me. Within seconds, I was caught in the middle of a fist fight against the black archer. Well, fist and bow fight to be exact.

I was the first to attack. I try a simple straight punch but dodge it and smack me with his bow.

"Getting kinda of sick of that bow", I shouted, trying a right hook this time.

As the archer block it, I surprise him and kick him in the stomach. He stumble back and left him wide open for a attack. I grab his two shoulder and begun kneeing him hard in the stomach. I knee him about four times before finally letting go and attempting my right hook again. The archer stumble badly to the left.

"What, speechless?"

The archer quickly shook it.

"Cute", he said.

"Bring it on", I said, bringing up my fist.

"Haven't has a fight like this in a long time", he replied.

"What?"

"But now this has to end."

The black archer then quickly pull out an arrow from his quiver. This arrow, however was different from the rest. Instead of a pointed end, the look blunt. It also appear to be flashing.

As the archer shoot it toward me, it exploded. The explosion was so strong and unexpected, I fell to my feet.

My visions, seconds later, was blurry and my head hurt. I started to see the black archer prepare another arrow. This time, the ones with the sharp end. I was still stun and couldn't ready do much. But before he could fire, someone in white clothes appear out of nowhere and was soon battling the archer.

The person dressed in white started throwing these odd shaped things and the black archer. It wasn't long before he give up and disappear. He shot off three arrows before jumping off the building. That left me alone with his foe.

The man started walking toward me but lucky, I has regain my vision.

"Bring it on", I said, bringing up fists like before.

"I ain't afraid of you." I then brought up my knee and both of my hand.

The man just stood there, staring at me.

I could now see him better. He was tall, thin, and has on a white mask. On his chest was some sort of symbol. It like kinda of an ace. Similar to the ace on poker cards.

"Wow", I said. "You big on poker or something?"

The man remain silent.

"Not much of a talker are you?"

The man then spoke.

"I believe these belong to you."

He handed me my two batons.

"Uh... thanks?"

"See ya."

He then started running away, toward the edge of the building.

"Wait", I shouted. "Who are you?"

Before he jump, he look at me. "Name Ace. I'm your new help."

He then jump.

I run toward Ace as he jump but as I got to the edge, he was gone.

"Wish I could do that", I comment.

Feeling even more tired, I rush home for a nap before my "chat" with Jame.

While driving home, I was thinking.

"Ace", I repeated. "Who are you and what do you look so... familiar?"

Two questions that would be bothering through the entire night.

11: Chapter 10: Awkward Situations

Chapter 10: Awkward Situations

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

Monday Morning

Through all of the morning, from the time I wake up to now, I kept thinking about one thing. Ace.

My thought were disturb when Brian spoke.

"Okay", said Brian. "Micheal, what are you going to said to Jame when you see him?"

I stop thinking and told Brian about my plan.

"I was thinking of saying "I come in peace", I replied. "While offering him these."

I took out from my backpack a small, plastic bag filled with Oreo cookies.

"That the plan?"

Brian slowly shook his head.

"Hey, what wrong with it?"

"Micheal, that a crazy plan! How do you know he even like Oreo?"

"You can't be human unless you like Oreo. Beside, sometimes, crazy idea lead to not so crazy... things."

"Things?"

"You know. Things like... Okay, I not sure."

It was only a few seconds later before I bump into someone accidentally. Papers scatter all over the ground.

"Oh man! I'm so sorry!"

"It okay", said an oddly familiar voice.

I look up and saw her. It was the girl I met last Friday. The girl then notice me.

"Hey it you", she said.

"Hello", I said, awkwardly.

The girl was standing next to George.

"Pardon me", I said before grabbing George and pulling him a few feet away.

"George", I loudly whisper. "Who is that?" I was pointing toward the girl.

"Oh, that Juliet. She a new student here."

"Thanks", I said, pulling George back toward Juliet and Brian.

"Sorry for the interruption", I said with a smile. "Did I miss anything?"

"Yeah", whisper Brian. "You miss the part where you're suppose to gather the lady's papers off the ground, give them to her, and apologize for bumping into her." Brian then pointed toward Juliet.

She was holding a small stack of papers, a few with shoe prints on them.

I held my head in shame. I couldn't do two of the three things Brian said but at least I could do the last one.

"Sorry for accidentally bumping into you", I said. "I guess I should have been paying attention more."

"It okay", Juliet said. "It was a pleasure meeting you again."

Juliet then walk away, smiling.

We all watch her walk away with stun expression.

My two friends then turn toward me.

"Pleasure meeting you again", quoted George. "What was that!?"

"I do not know", I replied. "I'm about as confuse as if I has fallen off a cliff, landed on my head and somehow survive."

"Well no matter", said Brian. "We have a Jame Westen to find."

Brian grab me by the wrist and pull me away.

"Come on, Micheal. I need to find him."

I started walking with Brian so he would stop grabbing my wrist and as I was walking away, I thought I saw Juliet waving at me, like before. I thought about waving back but stop. A crowd of students block my view and a second later, she was gone.

It was only a few seconds later that I bump into a another person.

I fell right onto the ground.

"Oh this is not my day", I comment. Before I could look up, Brian grab me by the shoulder and pull me up.

He started whisper. "Micheal, you remember that bad plan you told me about?"

"Yeah", I replied. "Why?"

Brian pointed toward the person I bumped into. It was Jame Westen.

"Oh, hey", I said, smiling. "Oreo cookies?"

"What", yell Jame.

"Oreo cookies." I toss him the bag.

He caught it in his hand and stare at it.

I stood watching him for a few seconds before speaking.

"Jame, I don't know if you know this or not but when give cookies, people eat them, not just stare at them."

"I rather starve then eat them", Jame said, rather harshly.

He toss them back at me.

I pick them back up.

"Told you it was a bad plan", Brian whisper.

"Unless I had a plan", I replied. "A++ for effort."

"Yeah but F++ for fail", commented Jame.

"Anyway, what do you want?"

"Hey, uh... what do you mean?"

"I mean you probably wouldn't have spoken to me if you didn't want something. So what do you want?"

I thought maybe a complement would help right about now.

"Wow, you're really tall."

"What", said Jame. He then got in a fighting position.

"What", said Brian. "What was that?"

"I thought maybe a complement would help."

"That is probably the worst complement you could given."

As I turn back toward Jame, he was impatiently waiting, with an extremely look on his face.

*clearing my throat*

"Serious face", I said to myself.

"Listen Jame, we wonder how you got a picture of Thrill Rider fighting Iron Fire. With you just arrived only about two weeks only, and now a photographer for the papers, we're wonder how you knew where to be."

"Luck", Jame simply replied.

Before I has a chance to ask anything else, the bell rang and Jame ran away from us and toward his next class.

"Well that could have gone better", comment Brian.

I turn toward Brian with an angry expression.

"Where would you half the time", I shouted.

"I could have use your help during that whole conversation!"

"I honestly thought you had it."

"What part did you "honestly" think I had? I "honestly" think that whole conversation resulted in me looking like a completely idiot to Jame."

"No offense Micheal but I think to Jame, you're already a completely idiot."

"Okay, well now I look like a complete... complete... a complete something more insulting than an idiot."

"Fool. Halfwit. Moron. Simpleton."

"Okay, well I was thinking of something less harsh but I guess those work."

After a few more seconds of pointless talking, we went out separate ways toward our class. Hopefully, my teacher won't mind my tardy.

12: Chapter 11: The Bald Bomber

Chapter 1​1: The Bald Bomber

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave A Review

6:30 pm

The golden sun was slowly falling form the sky as the day started to end. The warm air was wonderful. The usually sounds of cars horking and people yelling didn't bother me a bit as I has going use to it long ago. In facts, it actually sound relaxing.

After a few more, long minutes of relaxing, I got up and went to the edge.

I slowly peek over the ledge of the roof building.

"Sweet", I thought. "No Jame Westen."

It was early in the night and since I has finish my homework early, I suit up early.

With nothing happen, I decide to go on top of the roof of a short building and laid there for a while.

While resting, I remember my talk with Jame and figure it was best if I avoid him.

"Where your luck now", I smirk, climbing down toward my motorcycle. As I got down to street level, I tip toe toward some trashcans and quietly pull my motorcycle out.

I started the motor and rode off, looking for troubles. Not words a person hear often but then, I ain't an average person.

I rode around the street for what felt like a long time before stopping again. I took off my mask and look around.

"This is one quiet night", I said. "Nothing happening."

I place my mask back on and continue to ride.

"30 more minutes", I said. "Before going home."

It wasn't look before I found myself on a empty street. I was about to go home but then, I notice a van headed my way. As it got closer, I notice it was an armored van.

Following it, however, would four bikers, all wearing mask.

Sweet. Armored car robbery." I know that probably a bad thing to said and all, but I never stop an arm cars robbery and it was something I always to try.

"Time to kick butts", I though.

I drove toward the soon to be robbery.

The pair of bikers drove right up to the two fronts doors of the vans, each covering a different guards.

"Hand up", demanded one of the biker. He pull from his back a SMG.

Both guards place his hands up.

While the two bikers caught their eyes on the guards, the remaining bikers focus their attention on the back doors. Both of them started putting explosions on the doors.

It wasn't long before I arrive at the scene.

"Think fast", I yell before riding right up to one of the gunmen and smashing him right was my baton. He fell over, covering the new bruise on his head.

"Don't worry", I said. "That bruise ain't to be gone by the time you're in prison."

I then turn my attention toward the second gunman, who was running toward me.

"I got you, Thrill Rider!"

He then started firing upon me.

"No you don't!"

I did a u-turn around the front of the van before zooming right and left, causing the robber to waste his bullets.

The seconds he has to reload, I drove right up to the robber and smash him with the baton, like before.

I look at the two guards.

"Don't worry. You're saf-"

Out of nowhere, a large explosion cause me to fall off my motorcycle and onto the ground.

"Okay. Maybe you're not safe."

I look at what cause the explosion. Standing by his lone self was a single biker. He has on a cyan jacket with brown work pant and a black backpack. For some reason he took off his mask. He was kinda of bald but has a small, round patch of dark hairs on top his head.

"Thrill Rider", he yell in an angry voice. "Do you know who I am?"

I thought about for five seconds. "One robber out of four robbers."

"Not just a simple robber", he replied. "My name is Robert Laxer. But you can call me, Detonate."

"Detonate", I repeated. "You mean like to cause an explosion?"

"Yes", Detonate said. He reach into his backpack and pull out a grenade.

"Think fast", he said.

"Uh oh", I said. I knock on the guard's door.

"I suggest you start running for your life."

As the guards exited the van and started running, a series of explosion ring through the sky.

I look back at the back of the van and saw the two broken doors.

Detonate turn toward his partner.

"Grab all the money. I handle with Thrill Rider." He then threw the grenade at me.

I take cover behind the van as the grenade exploded. The blast from the grenade blew up beside me and knock me over. It also tip over the van, which nearly crush me.

I launch forward so I wouldn't get crush by the wheel.

"Oh, this is bad", I said.

I got up back on my feet and ran on top the of the van.

"My turn to attack!"

I jump off the van and whack Detonate with my baton. He stumble back a bit before uppercutting him.

"Where your bomb now", I shouted with excitement.

As Detonate regain conscious, he smile.

"Under you."

"What?"

I look down under me and saw sort some of pipe bomb. I started running from it but it exploded and send me flying back onto the ground.

As I look back at Detonate with my dizzying head, he was walking back toward the truck. His partner has empty out all the money and toss them into two black duffle bags. He toss one of the duffle bag at Detonate and both of them then got onto their motorcycle.

That when something strange happen. Detonate and his accomplice then drove away, leaving me with a painful headache.

"From boring night to eventful one to painful one. Bet that doesn't happen every years."

I wobble toward my motorcycle and attempt to follow the thieving bikers but it was too late. They has gotten away and I was stuck trying not to fall off my motorcycles while driving to the hotel.

13: Chapter 12: As the Saying Goes

Chapter 12: As the Saying Goes

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

"Want that", ask Brian, pointing toward my slice of pepperoni pizza.

It was a day after the armored truck and the three of us were at Rocky.

We has ordered a pepperoni pizza and while Brian and Ash would chatting, eating, and drinking, I was trying to figure out how to take out a bad guy with a bag filled with bomb. Frankly, I was thinking about what the Green Arrow would do.

"Now if I was Oliver Queen, I just shoot off one of his trick arrow. Problems with, I ain't Oliver Queen, I don't have a bow and tricks arrows, and even if I did, then I just miss every single shot. I am horrible when it came to range attack."

"Micheal", Brian yell.

"What? What? What?"

"Do you want your slice of pizza or do you want me to shut up?"

The tone in Brian sounded a little annoy.

"Brian", I replied in a calm tone.

"There are three slices still on the plate. Why do you want my?"

"I don't. I want to know what up with you later."

"What do you mean?"

"One. For the past weeks, you been showing up extremely bruise. Two, you been completely ignoring us of late. And three-"

"You been vanishing a lot", said Ash, finishing off Brian's sentence.

"Oh, come on guy... and girl. I just been working."

Brian still look annoy.

"Sure I guess."

Brian went for another slice of pizza.

Probably knowing that Brian wouldn't want to talk to me, I talk to Ash.

"So Ash, how life?"

"Life okay. How your?"

"Oh you know, busy."

"Yeah busy", murmur Brian, chewing his pizza.

"Pretend you didn't hear that", said Ash, shooting Brian an angry look.

"It okay Ash. Remember the fact that I have a little sister will never smile at me."

"Point taken."

After that little phase, there was a few minutes of silent. I took a few sips of my Dr. Pepper, quietly looking at Brian and Ash. The silent was broke when Brian wipe his mouth and left.

Before Brian left Rocky, he said "I see you two at school."

The little, rusty bell above the door of Rocky rang as Brian left, leaving me and Ash.

"Okay", I said. "What wrong with Brian?"

"I don't know", replied Ash. "I better follow."

"Sure. Go ahead."

Ash quickly follow Brian, leaving me alone with the tab.

I finish my soda and was about to leave but shortly stop. Juliet has just enter the pizza parlor.

Now what happen next, I don't really know how to explain but Juliet saw me siting by myself and ask if she could join me. I said yes.

"Hi", Juliet said, offering me a handshake.

"Hello", I said, returning the handshake.

"I seen you at the school. Your name Micheal."

"Yeah. How do you know?"

"George."

"Oh yeah."

"But then, you probably know my name is Juliet."

Juliet then smile.

I started feeling uncomfortable.

"Okay Micheal", I thought. "Talking to Juliet isn't going to be hard. Just try and stay calm. I face a crazy man with bombs and laugh about it. So hopefully, I can face this."

"So", I started "...How life?"

Juliet simple giggle.

At this point, I felt like face-palming.

"Life wonderful. How about you?"

"Same. Well, beside the fact that I let a bomber and and his accomplice get away."

"What?"

"Oh nothing."

"Here, have you seen the news later?"

"No and I rather not."

Juliet look around at the other tables before reaching over and grabbing a newspaper from an empty table.

She handed it to me and look at the front page.

"Thrill Rider let robbers steal thousands from armored trucks. Robbers use explosions to defeat vigilante."

"Now I know how Spider-man feeling."

I shook my head.

"Now in Thrill Rider's defense, how do you beat a guy using bombs?"

"That an easy one" comment Juliet.

"Really? Any chance you could help enlightenment me?"

"As the odd saying goes, fight fire with fire. In my opinion, all Thrill Rider has to do is use one of bomb to knock the bad guys."

"Wow", I thought. "How come I didn't think of that?"

I then look at the phone. It read 6:05 pm. (or 18:05)

"Sorry Juliet but I have to go now. I see you at school?"

"Sure Micheal. I think it I head home too."

I took out my Spider-man 3 wallet and left a tip before leaving. I escort Juliet until I reach my car. Juliet continue without me as I drove toward the hotel, looking for Detonate.

"Well Detonate, it time I fight bomb with bomber."

A Day Later (11:46 pm or 22:46[your choice])

*yawning*

"Hey Micheal", my dad said, entering the house. He look extremely tired.

"Hey dad", I replied, getting out of my chair and offering it to my dad. He lazily sat in it.

"Micheal, what are you doing up at this hour? You should be bed."

"Oh yeah", I thought, rubbing the back of my head. "I should be bed."

I was out looking for Detonate, hoping to use Juliet advice on how to beat him. After about two hours of searching, I give up and headed home. I just got home.

"What to said? What to said?"

"Dad, I was in bed but I was a little hungry so I went downstairs to have a snack."

"Didn't you have dinner", dad ask with a confuse look.

"...no...yes. I did have dinner but I still hungry."

"Okay. Mind if I join you?"

"Sure dad."

I went into the kitchen and made us two bowls of Honey Bunches cereal.

I give one to dad and enjoy the snack beside him, despite begin full.

"So Micheal, how school?"

"School fine. A and B and staying out of troubles. Kinda."

"What do you mean by "kinda"?"

"Oh you know. High school students. Enjoy fighting and all." I was mainly referring to Jame.

"Well, you stay out of it, right?"

"Yes dad. I do stay out of the fight. Kinda."

"Micheal", he said, strictly.

"Dad, relax. Everything okay."

He return to normal. "Micheal, I just want what best for you."

"I know dad. I do."

At that moment, dad's radio spoke.

"John", the officer yell. "We need your help!"

I recognize the voice. It belong the Officer Nicholas Page, a odd friend of my father.

"Nicholas", my dad yell. "What wrong?!"

"It Laxer!"

"Detonate", I thought.

"He attacking me and Shawn! Bring reinforcement!"

We heard gunfire, then nothing

"Nicholas!" Dad was shouting at his radio. Static

He quickly left the table and went for the door.

Before leaving, he yell to me "Clean the dishes! I'm be back!"

He left with a loud thud.

"Sorry dad", I said, "but something tell me you're going to need help. And I know who that help."

I dump the bowls into the sink, fill them with water, and headed out again.

Empty Street of Los Angeles (12: 13 or 00:13)

*boom* *shouting* *gun shoots*

As I enter to the fight, I could easily tell things wouldn't going so well. Many of officers were behind the corner of stone building, shooting aimlessly at Detonate.

He, along with some hired muscles, were tossing bombs and and shooting pistols. I could see Nicholas beside Shawn. They were behind a badly shot up police car. From where I was standing, Nicholas look badly wounded. He been shot. I has to stop this.

"Here the plan", a voice shouted.

"Ah", I yell, nearing falling over.

I turn around and face Ace.

"Pardon my rudeness and all, but are you trying to kill me?!"

"If you want to die, then go down there. If you want to help, then listen."

"What the plan", I ask, defeat.

"While the cops distract the hired muscle, I go and take them out. You can focus on Laxer."

"He call Detonate", I inform.

"Cute." Ace jump off from the top of the building and ran toward the chaos.

As he inch closer toward the fight, he took out what look like small, metal aces and toss them at Detonate and the others. They explode a few seconds, causing they all to stop attacking.

"Awesome", I said, following Ace.

As Ace started beating on the armed thugs, Detonate started running. While chasing Detonate, I help knock out a thug.

I kept chasing after Detonate but with his bag full of bombs, he was hard to chase. A few minutes, when we were about a block away, Detonate open the door to a red sedan and drove away. As it drove away, I ran after it and grab onto its back.

It drag me across the street of Los Angeles as I try and hold on.

"Oh awesome", I said. "Can't wait to spend the night sewing back my suit."

At that moment, Detonate open the door and drop out some bombs.

"Oh come on! Like I don't have enough issues!"

The bombs Detonate kept throwing out were loud, obnoxious, and was causing me to lose my grip.

"Going", I thought. "Need a plan."

I was now holding onto the car with only one hand, quickly losing my grip.

"Plan! Plan! Plan! Plan! Plan!" I kept repeating it to myself until I notice Detonate's bombs bag. It was sitting in the front passage's seat. I then got a plan.

"As the saying goes, fight fire with fire. Or in this case, fight bomb with bomber."

I swung forward with all my might and slowly climb up onto car's roof.

"Really hope I don't swallow any bugs while I'm up here."

Within a few minutes, I was above Detonate. As he was about to toss out another bomb, I grab the bomb out from his hand.

"Thanks but if you don't mind, I just going to borrow this for a few seconds." I roll over to the other side and toss the bomb back into the bomb bag.

"You idiot", yell Detonate. "You kill both of us!"

"No I didn't!"

I roll back above Detonate before grabbing him and pulling him out from the moving sedan.

The sedan drove about another half block before exploding and turning into a moving, flaming, black car.

"You better have insurance", I said to a pin down Detonate," cause I ain't paying for that."

"Get off of me", Detonate yell, attempting to free himself.

"Wow. If you think I going to do that, then you're a dumber idiot than me."

Before either of us could comment, two police cars pull right up to us.

"Hand up", said one of the officer getting out.

"Me or him?"

"Both!"

"Okay. Well, I rather not go to jail so yeah. See ya."

I pick up Detonate and toss him toward the oncoming officers.

As they caught him, I ran away. Two out of the fours officers chase after me. Then, out of nowhere, Ace came running out on a white motorcycle and rode beside me.

"Get on" he yell.

"Thanks for the ride!"

I jump onto the back, behind Ace, and the both of us rode away. We were driving back toward where the fight first started.

"Why are we heading this way", I ask.

"Do you want to retrieve your motorcycle or leaving for someone to steal?"

"Um. Thanks Ace."

"Yeah, your welcome. Now shut up."

The rest of the night smoothly, with me in my warm and comfortable bed.

14: Chapter 13: The Man in the Black Hood

Chapter 13: The Man in the Black Hood

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave A Review

*chocking* *pounding* *shouting*

"It time for you to die", shouted Vengeance. He was tightening his grip, chocking me out.

I was grabbing at anything and everything I could. Vengeance started picking me up and smashing me hard onto the cold, stone floor.

I was starting to feel dizzy. My visions was started to get blurry. I had to think of a way out. Fast.

48 Hours Ago

"Brian", I said. "Come on, what wrong?"

"What wrong", ask Brian, angrily. "What is wrong is you."

It was a busy Thursday afternoon for L.A., but for me and Brian, it was a relaxing Thursday afternoon. We were both finishing with school and were on our way to meet Ash at her house. We were about halfway there before I notice how Brian seen a little upset. I has ask him what wrong but he didn't said anything.

"Whoa", I said, a little surprise by Brian's harsh tone. "What do you mean "what is wrong is me"?"

"Micheal, I trying calling you last night. It kept going to voice mail."

"Uh oh", I thought. Brian did call me last night, repeatedly. I didn't even notice until I woke up to check the time.

"10 miss calls", I read. All from Brian.

"Brian listen. I was busy, okay?"

"Oh yeah. Of late, you been busy all the time. Believe it or not, I actually call your mother. She said you has already finish working. Mind telling me where you were?"

"Brian..."

I couldn't think of anything to said, beside the truth. But how do I said that.

"Hey Brian", I said to myself. "You want to know where I was last night. I was trying to stop a crazy bomber from blowing up a friend of my father. Now that how my night went. Now how did your night go?"

No. That were just make me seen like an idiot beyond idiots.

We has enter at Ash's house. She was standing out in her front yard. Brian suddenly change his mood. A little.

"Hey guy", she yell, waving toward us. She give the both of us a hug.

"Hey Ash", I said.

"Hey Micheal. Hey Brian."

She hug the both of us. She then notice Brian.

"Brian", she said. "What wrong?"

"Nothing", he replied. "Anyway. What are we going to do today?"

"You two could help me clean my room", suggest Ash.

"Thanks", I said ,"but I was thinking something for fun."

Brian then shot me an angry look while Ash shot me a sad look.

"What?! Oh come on guy... and girl. It rare the three of us actually finish our homework early. Let's go somewhere and enjoy the day."

"Sure", replied Ash. "Where?"

"I do not know but if you give me sixty seconds, I think I can come up with a few places."

Exactly Sixty Seconds Later

"Okay, I can't think of anyplace", I said, defeated. "Sure Ash. We help you clean your room."

Before I knew it, I was in Ash's room, sorting out her dirty laundry.

"This is not how I saw my day going."

"Then how did you see your day going", question Brian. He was picking up some a pile of Ash's dirty socks.

"I'm not sure how to answer that question."

"Thanks for your help", said Ash. "It mean a lot."

"Okay, serious Ash. How do you live like this?" I was picking one of Ash's shirt. It was cover in all sort of weird stains. Most of which I couldn't tell what it was.I toss it into Ash's laundry basket.

"I think we're done", suggest Brian, clapping his hand.

"Oh, yes", I shouted.

I rush toward the door to leave but Brian grab me by my shirt collar.

"Where do you think you're going?"

"Uh...it begun with an h and rhyme with...with... Wait. Is there a word that rhyme with home?"

Both of my friends shrug.

"Why are you headed home", ask Ash.

"Well after spending an hour cleaning a friend's room, I figure I spend enough time with my friends. See ya."

Once again, Brian grab me by my shirt collar.

"Okay. You have to stop that. My shirt collar going to rip off."

"Not so fast, Flash. You and I are going to have a chat. See ya Ash."

Brian pull me out of Ash's house and down to the street.

When we were at the end of the block, I stop.

"Brian, spill. What is going on? You're acting like a complete jerk."

"I'M acting like a complete jerk. What about you?!"

"What about me?"

"You're the jerk!" Brian then calm down.

"Micheal. For the past few days, I have needed your help. But when ever I call you, you off doing something. Something possibly crazy."

"You're right about the crazy part", I commented.

"Shut up", said Brian, harshly.

He then rudely bump me before walking away.

"Wait", I yell. "What do you need me for?!"

"Too late!"

"What just happen", I thought.

Later at night

"Don't do it", I plead with the man.

It was about 9 p.m and while riding around the loud street of L.A., I was thinking.

"What did I do wrong", I ask myself. "What did Brian need from me?"

I didn't have much time to think as I has stumble upon two men in an alley. One of which has a knife pointed at the other man. The man without the knife look scare and has his wallet out.

When I arrive, the scare man ran while the other man pointed his knife at me.

"Come on", I plead again. "You do want to do this."

"I aren't afraid of you", he said.

Now that was an obvious lie. It was kind of obvious that the man was lying. The pocket-knife in his hand was badly shaking.

"Give up", he yell. I simple roll my eyes.

I started walking toward him at a leisurely stroll, admiring the trashcans and litters everything.

"Stay back!"

As I got closer to him, he lurch for me. I move out of the way before the knife could hit me and the robber fell to the ground.

"Told you not to it", I said.

The robber, looking angry now, attempting to attack me again. This time, I grab his knife and launch his forward.

"Thanks for the weapon", I smirk, closing the pocket-knife. Instead of attacking me a third time, the man got to his feet and ran away.

As I started to chase him, someone jump onto him.

"Didn't see that coming", I commented.

The man smash the criminal's head onto the ground and knock him unconscious. He then slowly got up and turn toward me. The man was dress in a black raincoat and his face was covered by the hood. The really attention grabber was what he has in his hands. A pair of machetes.

I got into a fighting position. "Bring it on", I though.

Surprisingly, the man did not attack me. Instead he just stood still, like as if he was a statue.

Confuse, I slowly walk toward him. I kept expecting him to lash out at me, but he just stood there. Even when I got right up to him.

I has thought of poking him to see if he or a real person or some kind of top-secret military robot.

"Hello", the man said.

"Argh", I yell, jumping back a little.

"Wow. The thrilling Thrill Rider scare by a simple hello. Glad to know the city of Los Angeles is safe."

"Hey", I replied. "In my defense, I was not expect you to talk."

"What? Did you think I was some kind of top-secret military robot?"

"...No. I knew for a fact you were a man."

I turn my back toward the man for a few seconds before I thought about something.

"Who are you", I ask.

"My name is Vengeance. And I want to help you get rid of the criminals of Los Angeles."

"Wait, what", I said, with a confuse face.

Now I guess I should feel happy and energize that someone else want to help me and all, but really, I think I rather not have a partner. Especially a partner who named is Vengeance and who weapons are really sharp machetes. Yeah, someone watching my back and helping me take out the crazy bad guy like Detonate and Iron Fire would be awesome and all, but frankly, I notice I have always work better alone. Yet, I didn't really feeling like hurting the feeling of a guy with a pair of machetes so I has to think of something.

"I said I want to help you", said Vengeance. As a symbol of peace, or at least that what I think, he place his machetes back in their sheath, which he has on his back.

"Sure", I said, offering a handshake. Vengeance firmly return my handshake. So firmly, I think a few small bones may have broke. I felt like saying "Ouch!" but decide to keep my mouth shut.

After the handshake, Vengeance hastily turn away.

"Follow me", he said.

I didn't ready know how to handle this so I follow.

"Listen, Thrill Rider. I need your help."

"Sure. With what?"

"We're going hunting. Go and get your cycle. We're meet at 23 Street, House 47."

"23 Street", I thought. "House 47? What do that location sound familiar?"

During my thought, I has notice that Vengeance has disappear. It was only seconds later that I heard the screeching of a tire.

"Well. See ya at House 47 I guess."

I run to get my motorcycle and rode toward the meeting place.

15: Chapter 14: A Parntership Gone Wrong

Chapter 14: A Partnership Gone Wrong

A/N For anyone living in L.A., I fake the gang mention in this chapter is fake. Okay? Anyway, enjoy and please leave a review.

"Oh, this is bad", I thought. I has arrive at the rendezvous point and instantly recognize it. It was a simple, yellow, one-story house, with a front yard filled with dead grass. This house belong to the 23rd Street Gang.

The 23rd Street Gang is a ruthless gang, focus mainly around smuggling and ransoming. Dad has try and busted them many times, but he never seen to have enough proves.

I look around for Vengeance. I didn't see him anyway. I did however see a black motorcycle, like my but a different model.

"What going on?"

I cautiously got off my motorcycle and walk toward the house. As I slowly approach the front porch, I saw a sicken sight. Lying on the floor of the porch was a member the gang. I remember seeing him in pictures dad brought home. What was sicken was that the man has a bloody bruise on his head. I check his pulse. The man has a weak pulse.

"What do I suddenly get the feeling I arrive a little too late?"

It was seconds later when I heard a loud crash. I rush to the door and kick it in. As I enter the house, there on the ground laid two other unconscious gang master. They also has bloody bruise on their head.

"Oh man. Vengeance, what are you doing?"

I started hearing yelling from a doorway. I rush to the doorway but shortly stop at the enter. I peek around the corner and saw Vengeance standing above a frighten man. They were both in the kitchen.

"Where is he", Vengeance yell, grabbing the man by his shirt. Vengeance then knee the man in his stomach and smash his head into the cupboard.

"Where is Mike Cutler?!"

The man spoke frighten.

"You think I'm afraid of you? Do you know who I work for? If he knew I snitch on them, I be a dead man!"

Vengeance took out one of his machete and place it right up to the man head.

"Not if I kill him first. Now tell me where he are!"

Vengeance release his grip to grab the man hand. He place his weapon the man's wrist.

"Okay. Okay. I give up. Cutler can be found at the dock. Warehouse 23."

Vengeance let out an evil smile. He smash the man in the cupboard again and toss him onto the ground.

Vengeance started walking toward the doorway but I stop him.

"Glad to see you arrive."

"What was that", I yell. "That was insane!"

"Shut up and listen", Vengeance said. "As you probably heard, we got a location for the gang leader."

Vengeance started walking toward the exit but I stop him.

"Pardon my intrusion and all but like I calmly ask before, what was that!"

"I getting some revenge. Now follow me."

"Wait! Revenge?! What does revenge have to do with any of this?"

"How stupid are you?! Take a guess! 23rd Street Gang!"

Vengeance then shove me out of the way. Before he could leave, I grab him by the shoulder.

I was about to ask Vengeance if he has some sort of personal issue with the gang but before I could, Vengeance swing at me with his weapon. I barely has time to dodge it, as the attack slice through my suit. A little part of my stomach could be seen.

"Okay", I though "All of a sudden, I feel embarrass."

I look back at Vengeance. Now he has both his machete out.

"Help me or still out of my way", he threaten, a machete pointed at me.

"Vengeance, don't do this", I plead. "I heard the whole conversation. I heard about what you're going to do. You don't want to kill."

"Yes I do", Vengeance replied. "And like I said before, help me or still out of my way!"

There was a few minutes of silence. Between me and Vengeance. Vengeance's eyes may have been covered but I could still see all the angry in them.

"What happen", I said.

Vengeance kept silence. Yet, I heard little murmur. Like as if he wanted to tell me but refuse.

Vengeance lower his weapon and continue toward the exit. I was about to stop him like before but this time, he kick me in the stomach and send me back to the wall. Vengeance then lurch at me with his machetes. I jump onto the floor before the attack could interact. The two machetes ended up in the wall. Distracted by the struck machetes, I tackle Vengeance.

Once both of us hit the ground, I started punching Vengeance repeated, in an attempt to knock he out.

During the beating, Vengeance grab my shirt and pull me downward. Before I could do anything, Vengeance punch me and I fell to the ground beside him. Once free, Vengeance rush to retrieve his weapons. I ran after him.

Vengeance pull out his weapons before I could stop him.

"This partnership is over", Vengeance said.

"In all honestly, I think the partnership ended about two minutes ago."

Seeing as I was outmatch, I pull out my batons.

"Thought I even out the odds."

I attempt to attack Vengeance with a downward baton attack. Vengeance block with his weapons and strike me with his elbow. I stumble back and Vengeance slice me across the chest. I look at my chest and notice a little cut.

"Argh", I yell, covering the cut before blood could flow out. Looking back at Vengeance, he was smiling.

"Oh yeah. That isn't freaky at all."

Vengeance ran forward and jump, trying to attack from above. I jump out of the way. As Vengeance hit the floor, I try to kick him but Vengeance grab me by the foot and lifted it. I fell on my back and Vengeance started twisting me leg.

"Arghhhh", I shouted. I was pounding on the floor.

Vengeance was standing too high for me to hit but not to high to kick. I kick him in the leg as hard as I could. Vengeance fell down to his knee and I kick him in the face.

Vengeance lost his grip and I got up. Standing all the way up, I felt an unbearable pain in my right leg. The leg Vengeance twisted. I couldn't stand up fully. I felt down to my knee.

*heavy breathing*

I look back at Vengeance. He was slowly getting back up. Weapons in hand. He was slowly walking toward me. I got back up on my feet. Trying to ignore the pain, I readily for a fight.

Before either of us could attack, we started hearing sirens. Vengeance look at the windows as they sudden flash blue and red.

"Look like we continue this later."

Vengeance ran toward the backdoor and without even opening it, broke right through it and left me with the polices. The polices, along with S.W.A.T, came rushing in. All their guns were aimed at me. I was trap.

"Hand up", one of the officer yell.

I didn't know what to do. My leg was injury, I was surrender by cops and S.W.A.T, and without help, I was heading toward prison. Not a place I wanted to end up since I has sent a lot of "acquaintances" there.

Everyone started closing in on me. I didn't see any other option. I place my hand up and allow the cop to cuff me. They started escorting me out of the house.

As I left the house, I notice all the knock out gang members entering ambulance.

"Look at what you done", said one of the officer. "Most of them nearly die thanks to you. You're no hero."

"I wasn't me", I replied calmly.

"Oh yeah? Then who?"

"A man named Vengeance. He was angry at the gang."

"Yeah right."

The cop shove me into a cop car and went to the driver seat. As I enter the car, I heard an explosion.

"What the-?!" I turn around and face the back window.

Running on top the many cars was Ace. He was jumping from car to car, tossing his little aces at the cops and S.W.A.T. Within a few minutes, Ace has arrive at the car with me. He grab the officer's hand before he could pull his gun and knee him in the stomach. The officer fell to the ground and Ace got into the driver seat.

"Curious", I said. "Should I buckle up?"

Ace didn't answer. Instead, he step hard on the gas and launch me backward. My back hit the seat hard.

I grab the front passenger seat and look forward.

"Listen", I said. "We have to-"

"Get down", Ace said suddenly.

"What?"

"Look forward."

I look forward and notice the road block ahead of us. In front of the cars were officers, all with their gun pointed at us.

"Turn around", I shouted.

"Too late", replied Ace, lifting his foot and stomping hard on the gas. I launch back again.

"Please stop doing that", I ask.

"Please get down!"

Ace took cover behind the steering wheel while I took cover at the car's floor.

Bullets started flying toward us. The sound of bullets shattering through the windows ring in my ears.

As we kept on driving, I heard the polices stop shooting and they yelling at each others to get out of the way. That could only mean one thing.

I brace for impact as Ace crash into the road block. The impact shook the whole car as little pieces of glasses fell on top of us.

"And to think. Mom and dad said I needed to improve my driving skills. Now if they could only see Ace now."

I got up from the floor and dust off the little pieces of glass. I look back at the road block and saw the many damage cop cars.

"That going cost the city a few hundreds bucks", I though.

I turn my attention toward Ace.

"Listen Ace. We need to head to the deck. Warehouse 23."

"Warehouse 23? What there?"

"Mike Cutler. Leader of the 23rd Street Gang."

"What?! How do you know that?"

"Long story. You really want to hear it?"

"No but I rather know what I going to encounter instead of going in blind."

"Okay. I try to make it short. Anyway, I met this guy named Vengeance, who as name suggest, want revenge against the 23rd Street Gang for some currently unknown reasons. We made a partnership and went to the gang's hideout. There I saw Vengeance lash out on many of the gang members, nearly killing they in the process. One of they confuse to knowing where their leader was, and now, Vengeance is on his way to possibly kill Mike."

There was a few minutes of silence before Ace spoke.

"I thought you were suppose to help me understand the situation at hand. You just make me more confuse."

"What was so confusing about it? I told you the whole story in the shortest way. I think."

Ace shook his head.

"Hang on", said Ace.

"Oh no."

Ace turn hard toward the dock and sent me toward the door.

As I slowly got in an upright position, I buckle up.

"Note to self, always wear seat belt."

16: Chapter 15: Just Keep on Getting Worst

Chapter 15: Just Keep on Getting Worst

A/N Now, regretfully, I please blood in this chapter. Please leave a review and tell me if you think the blood fit or if I should take it out.

"What didn't you tell me", Ace whisper angrily.

"Because I think stopping Vengeance is a lot more important than my leg."

Only did a little while ago did we arrived at a large, rusted warehouse. Warehouse 23. In front was a large, open door. Beyond the door was pure darkness. We couldn't see the inside

When I exited the vehicle, I fell down to my knee. Ace ask what happen and I told him about my fight with Vengeance and how he twisted my leg.

"You can't fight with an injury leg."

"You wanna bet", I said. I rise my fists into a fighting position.

"Bring it on!"

Ace cross his arm and tap his foot.

I attempt to punch Ace with a straight but Ace grab my arm and swing me around. Until he let me go and I fell onto the hood of the destroy police car.

I can't believe I going to said this but I think this car was beaten me more time than I beaten criminals in this week alone.

Ace, once again, cross his arm and tap his foot impatiently.

"Okay. I still guard out here while you go in there. Yell if you need me."

"Thanks you."

Ace walk toward the doorway of the warehouse before peeking in. He then ran in.

While he was in the warehouse, I thought of an excuse for my leg.

"How am I going to explain this to mom and dad?"

I barely has time to think before I heard tapping coming from the inside of the warehouse. I slowly made my way inside the warehouse.

As I enter the warehouse, I was shock. There in the middle of the warehouse laid about a dozen thugs, each with a weapon by their side. All of there badly wounded from cuts. Cuts on their waist, on their arm, on their leg. They were all around two vans.

"Your friend, Vengeance, do this?"

"No. It can't be."

I turn and face Ace.

"While at the house, Vengeance simple hit them in the head. Look around! All these guys were cuts!"

I didn't know why I was telling Ace this. I knew this has to be Vengeance, yet I didn't want to believe it.

Ace remain silent. He started walking toward the injury thugs. On his way, he bump me.

Ace check the wrist of one of the thug.

"Still alive", Ace said. "But with a weak pulse."

Ace then check the other thugs. They all has weak pulse.

I look around. I suddenly got a feeling. A feeling like something was wrong.

"Where Mike", I ask.

"What?"

"Mike Cutler. I don't see him anywhere."

"You know what Mike Cutler look like?"

I remember seeing picture of Mike Cutler from files Dad brought home.

"Don't ask. Anyway. I don't see Cutler anywhere."

We look around for any sign of Cutler. We couldn't ask of the thugs since they were all unconscious.

After a few minutes of searching, Ace call for me.

I rush over to him. On the other side of the warehouse, by a wall of broken windows, was Ace holding a small, gold chain. There was a little bit of blood on the chain.

"This look bad", I said, breaking the silence.

"This belong to Cutler?"

"Yup."

"Well. From the look of it, Cutler put up a fight but lost. If that truth, where the body?"

"I going to take a guess and said Vengeance took him."

"How can you be sure?"

"Well, for one, there no body. Two, there a trail of blood over there."

I was pointed toward door next to the window wall. By the door was a trail of dark, red blood drops, leading out toward it.

We follow the trail and it lead us directly to a parking lot.

The trail continue to lead us to an empty parking lot space. After that, the trail stop, but in its place lay a pair of skid marks.

*sigh*

"Look like we lost", Ace claim.

"Guess we just arrive too late", I said. "Now what?"

"Now we call it a night. There nothing we can do now. Come on. I drive you home. Or where every you want me to drop you off."

"Thanks."

We started heading back toward the car, defeated and miserable.

The Morning After

"Oh come on", I said, falling back onto my pillow. I has left my motorcycle back at the house. If the cops had find it, they would transport it to an impound.

It was the morning after my fight with Vengeance and things won't looking up.

My leg still hurt, my motorcycle was in an impound, and Brian was still angry was me. And to make matter worst, I still didn't have an excuse for my leg. As soon as I got home, I change and went straight to bed.

I check my phone. It read 6:17.

"Time to get up", I said.

I left my bed and slowly wobble toward the bathroom. Within ten minutes or so, I wobble down toward the kitchen. As I enter the kitchen, my whole family yell. Guess I should have expect that.

"Micheal", my mother yell, "what happen?"

"I fell", I replied.

Dumb excuse, I know, but it what I could think of with the time given.

"Fell", repeated my dad.

"Yeah. I fell. Down. In the bathroom."

"I didn't hear anything."

"It was a quiet fall."

Mom left her seat and went to examine my leg.

"Must have been one serious fall", my mom said, lifting my leg.

"Ouch", I said, nearly falling over.

"Sorry Micheal but it doesn't look like you're going to school today."

"What?! Mom! It okay. I can go to school."

Now, as surprising as this is, I rather go to school today instead of relaxing in my wonderful, amazing, confronting bed. I needed to find out what was wrong with Brian and was hoping Ash would know.

"Well I'm sorry but you can't. Your leg is badly injury. Sorry Micheal but you're staying."

"Swell", I thought.

"Lost my motorcycle. Lost a fight with a psychopath who twisted my leg. And now I can't figure out what gotta Brian so mad at me. Could this get any worst?"

"Don't worry", my mom said. "I still at home with you."

"And that answer my question."

I waddle toward the table and try to enjoy my breakfast.

Later in the Day

"Thanks mom", I said, resting on my bed.

It was about noon and I was in my room, with my leg on a pillow. My mother was putting on it a small bag on ices.

"Does that feel better", my mom ask.

"Yeah mom. Thanks."

"Okay. I be downstairs if you need anything. Just call."

Mother exit my room and left me alone.

As soon as she was gone, I got up and started walking around, thinking.

"Vengeance. Man, what happen?! What turn you into a madman?! And can I save you?"

Around my fifth laps, my phone started ringing.

I wobble over and check my phone.

"A new message?"

I didn't recognize the number.

Attach to the message was a video. I tap it and saw Vengeance.

"This is a message to Thrill Rider", he stated.

"This is your odd bud, Vengeance. And I have something you want. Or someone."

Vengeance move out of the frame and reveal Mike Cutler. He was tied to a chair, all cuts and bleeding.

"Let me go", he yell, struggling to get himself free.

"I kill you! The second I'm free, you're dead!"

Vengeance reappear in the frame, machete to Cutler's throat.

"Keep talking and there be a thin line across your throat. A thin line slowly leaking blood."

Vengeance face the camera.

"Listen Thrill Rider, and listen well. At 10:00 pm sharp, me and this piece of trash here will be at the Grammy Museum. Considering that you're some kind of idiot that want to save everyone, even the piece of trash here, I give you one shot to save him."

The video then ended.

I was sicken. Horrify. Disgusted.

"I have to stop this", I said.

"But first, healing."

I wobble back to my bed and place the ice on my leg.

10:00 P.M.

I was in the parking lot of the Grammy Museum, hiding behind a car.

Ahead of me was the front entrance to the Grammy Museum, and standing in front was a whole lot of police officers.

"Vengeance must have somehow send the message to everyone", I said.

"Yeah he did", said a voice from behind.

"Ah", I shouted.

I turn my head and face Ace. Ace crouch down next to me.

"Will you stop doing that?! I rather not die of a heart attack."

"Cute", he said.

"Anyway. What the plan, Thrill Rider?"

"Plan? I was suppose to have a plan."

"Tell me you're kidding", Ace said angrily.

"You don't have a plan! What were you going to do? Just walk right in and hope for the best?"

"...No ...My plan was...to..."

Ace lower his shaking head.

"Follow me."

Ace started walking toward the side of the museum. I follow after him.

We had barely taken a step before Ace stop me.

"Wait", he said.

"What?! In cause you forgotten, we got a crazy psychopath with a hostile and a pair of machetes."

"How is your leg?"

"Pardon me?"

"Your leg. How is it?"

"It fine. Let go."

I attempt to move forward but Ace punch me in the leg. I fell over, gripping my leg.

"Ouch! What was that for?!"

"Checking to see if you can fight."

"Would it kill you just to ask?"

"No but if I ask, you probably would have said yes. Wouldn't you?"

"Probably but I have to. Vengeance want me. Not you."

"With your leg, Vengeance would surely kill you."

"Well that a risk I willing to take."

"Well, is that a risk everyone you know is willing to take?"

I stop.

"Is that a risk everyone I know is willing to take? The risk of me dying? Leaving behind everyone I know and care about? Mom. Dad. Henry and Alex. Brian and Ash."

I never once thought of it like this.

I then felt a hand on my shoulder.

"Listen", Ace said.

"Vengeance may want you but you need my help. Vengeance doesn't know about me so we have the element of surprise. Now let go."

Ace stealthy cross the parking lot and made his way to the side of the museum. I follow after him.

As we got to the side, Ace pull from his back pocket another "throwing ace" but for some reason,this "throwing ace" has what look like a metal rectangle attach to the bottom.

"Grab on", Ace command.

"To what?"

"Wrap your arm around my waist."

"I'm sorry. What?"

"Just do it."

"Okay but just to be clear. There is nothing between us."

I slowly wrap my arms around Ace's waist.

"Well this isn't weird at all."

"You ready?"

"As ready as I willing to be."

Ace pointed his ace at the museum roof and before I knew it, the ace shot upward. A second later, we were getting pull up.

"Okay", I said, climbing up onto the roof. "You watch too much Batman. A grapple ace?"

Ace completely ignore my remark. He was more interest in the museum. As Ace approach the sunroof, he knee over it.

"Think. If you were Vengeance, where would you hide?"

"Especially in a place like the Grammy Museum", I stated.

"Do you know how many people came here?"

"I do. And because of all the people coming and going, that leave only one place."

I knee next to Ace, looking down through the sunroof too. There were a group of officers below us. All chatting.

"Hey, mind talking me what you're thinking? Sort of lost here."

"Basement", Ace said.

"Basement? Oh. Basement. Slight problem, thought. How do we check the basement if the cops down there?"

"I can solve that."

Ace walk over to the front of the museum. He threw one of his ace and a few seconds later, it explode in the parking lot. The explosion caught the attention of all cops and send them all running toward it.

"Okay. Would have just use something like a rock but I guess that work too."

Distracted, Ace lifted a panel and drop down. I follow after him.

"To the basement", I shouted, pointing before running off.

Ace grab me before I could continue.

"The basement is this way." Ace was pointed in the opposite direction.

"You sure?"

"Positive."

Ace pointed to a sign on the wall. Below all the other places to visit in the museum, there read maintenance. With an arrow pointed in the other direction.

"Okay. Let head that way." I turn around and head toward maintenance with Ace.

As we reach the door to the basement, I cautiously peek inside.

"It's clear", I said to Ace.

I slowly open the door for both of us and tip toe forward.

"What are you doing", Ace ask.

"Tip toeing forward so I don't make so much noise. You should try it."

"Yeah no."

The basement was dark with pipes everywhere. Waters cover most of the floor and some was dripping from pipes all over the ceiling. As we got to the floor, steam burst from a pipe and hit me. I fell to the ground.

"So much for stealth", Ace said.

"Maybe he didn't hear that", I replied, looking on the bright side.

"Thrill Rider", Vengeance yell.

"Or maybe he did."

I took out my batons and Ace took out his throwing aces. We were back to back, circling. We couldn't see Vengeance anyway.

"So you came. You stupid fool! Now you will die!"

Vengeance then came running out from the darkness before kicking me to the ground. Before he could disappear back into the darkness, Ace knee him and punch him across the face. He stumble back into some pipes.

"Who are you", Vengeance scream.

"Name Ace."

Ace kick Vengeance back into the pipe and threw one of his ace. It cut Vengeance's shoulder.

"He wouldn't work with me but he work with you! Arghhh!"

Vengeance came charging toward Ace. Ace attempt to punch Vengeance but he dodge the attack and ram right into Ace's chest. Vengeance force Ace right into a stone wall. Once Ace was pin, he started punching him repeatedly.

Once up on my foot again, I ran to Vengeance and pull him off Ace. We started battling each other. Vengeance with his machetes and me with my batons.

I swung my baton at Vengeance but he dodge it and I hit a pipe instead. As my hand hit the pipe, Vengeance grab my hand and slice my wrist. I took back my hand and look at the cut. While I was looking, Vengeance try to stab me in the chest but I fell back onto the ground. Vengeance lurch forward with his weapons and before he could move any further, I lift my feet and threw Vengeance over me. He drop his weapons. While on the ground, I rush over to him and started strangling him, hoping to knock him unconscious fast. In ten seconds, my plan would work.

Before I could fully knock Vengeance out, he poke me in the eyes. I lost my grip and stumble back. Stun, Vengeance ram me onto the ground.

"It time for you to die", shouted Vengeance. He was tightening his grip, chocking me out.

I was grabbing at anything and everything I could. Vengeance started picking me up and smashing me hard onto the cold, stone floor.

I was starting to feel dizzy. My visions was started to get blurry. I had to think of a way out. Fast.

Before I knew it, Ace pull Vengeance off and allow me to regain my breath.

Ace attempt to punch Vengeance but he block the attack and threw Ace onto me.

"First, I grab your waist. Now you're on me. Thanks for the offer and all but I not really looking for a relationship."

"Shut up", said Ace, harshly.

He got up off of me and so did I.

As we got to our feet, we look for Vengeance. He has vanish. We look on the ground for Vengeance's machetes but they too, vanish.

"Think we won this fight", I ask.

"Doubt it", replied Ace. "Keep your guard up."

I rush over to pick up my batons. As I grab them, I started hearing muffling.

"Do you hear that?"

"Yeah."

We follow the muffling sound. It lead us toward the far back of the basement. At the far end of the basement was Mike Cutler. He was still bloody and tied to a chair but he was still alive.

I walk up to Cutler and remove the rag in his mouth.

"Where is that man! Tell me where he is! If you don't, I-"

I has knock him out.

"Please shut up", I said.

"Come on", Ace said. "Let get out of here."

We walk back to the stair, leaving the basement.

"Shouldn't we inform the police about him?"

"Leave that to me."

Ace drop an ace by the basement door.

"You may want to run."

"What?"

Ace didn't answer. Instead, he grab me and ran. Kind of grateful now since the ace Ace dropped explode.

We got up from the ground, dusting off the little pieces of rubbish on us.

"Now we really need to run."

"I ain't going to question you this time."

I follow after him.

A/N In case you read this and have actually been to the Grammy Museum, then let me said sorry. I never actually been to the Grammy Museum so again, sorry if I insulting the museum somehow.

17: Chapter 16: A Friendship in Ruin

Chapter 17: A Friendship In Ruin​

A/N Enjoy and Please leave a review

*sigh*

I has just driven up to the school. It been almost two weeks since my battle with Vengeance and so far, nothing.

While trying to find out more about the 23rd Street Gang and who Vengeance really is, I been trying to fix my friendship with Brian. I trying calling him and I trying visiting him at his house but like before, nothing. He isn't answering my call nor was he at home when I visited.

Today, I decided I has to do thing the Thrill Rider's way.

I was leading back in the driver's seat, wondering.

"What are the chances I going to regret this?"

I didn't have much time to think since someone has knock on the window of my car.

"What!? What!? What?! What?!"

I turn toward the right and saw George knocking on the window.

"Micheal", George started,"what are you doing?"

"Would you believe doing something so dumb it could ruin my friendship with Brian forever?"

"No."

"Well, that probably what going happen."

I got out of my car and went out toward the lunch tables. George follow after me.

"Wait, what?! What are you going to do?!"

"I going to have a chat with Brian."

"You sure? Cause from what I heard, Brian doesn't exactly want to "chat" with you."

"Yeah, well, Brian and I going to have a chat. Like it or not."

"Probably not", commented George.

The both of us arrive at the lunch tables. The tables were filled with students eating breakfast and chatting.

"Now where Brian?"

"Well I don't see Brian anywhere but I do see Ash over there."

George was pointed over by the far end of the lunch tables. There sitting by her lonesome was Ash, reading a book. I rush over to her.

"Ash", I scream, pounding on the table.

"Whoa", Ash said, leading back. "What's wrong?"

"Where is Brian? He and I need to have a chat. Now!"

"Easy Micheal", George said. "You need to calm down."

"Sorry", I said. I then took a breath, calming down a bit.

"I just want to talk with Brian. That all."

"Well, I'm sorry Micheal but I don't know where Brian is. I haven't seen him yet."

"Swell", I said.

I smash my fist onto the table, before running off to find Brian.

Juliet:

I was leaning over the railing when I saw Micheal running toward Ash.

I has thought about going over and greeting him but stop. Something was wrong with him.

He has pounded hard on the table with his friend, Ash.

"What the?!"

I stay where I was and watch.

Apparently, from what I could hear, Micheal was looking for his friend, Brian. Micheal wanted to have a talk with Brian but Brian was nowhere to be find. After pounding the table again, Micheal ran off.

"What was that all about?"

18: Chapter 17: Identity Crisis

Chapter 18: Identity Crisis

A/N Enjoy and please a review.

Later in the Day

*heavy breathing*

I was bending over, hands on both of my knees, sweating, and soon reaching for a bottle of water.

I was at my hideout, the abandoned hotel, trying to improve my speed and stamina whiling trying to calm down.

Earlier, I has stay after school for about 30 minutes, waiting to talk with Brian. It turn out I has actually wasted my time. George found me later and told me Brian was absent.

I realized I was going to need something to calm me down so I headed toward the hotel and started running.

I took a large drink of water before dumping some on my head.

"Ah", I said. "Just what I needed."

I place down the bottle and went to get out the dummy and my batons.

Before I could even attack the dummies with my batons, my phone started ringing. I check the caller ID.

"Mom?"

I press the green, answer button.

"Hey Mom. Do you need something?"

"Yeah Micheal", my mom replied. "It about your sister."

"Sister?... Oh Alex! Uh...what wrong with him...her?"

"I'm busy helping out with your father. Can you pick up Alex from school."

I check the time on my phone.

"Alex got after school detention again?"

"Yes."

"Sure Mom. I go pick up Alex."

I hang up the call, put away the dummies, and place my batons under the driver's seat before driving off to get Alex.

25 minutes

"So wait", I said, waving my hand. "What happen?"

"For the last time", Alex said, "I just place some gums in Macy Victor's hair."

I shook my head.

Alex sat in my four door, blue sedan, wearing her causal gray jacket with black jean and a blue, blackish cap. We're were talking about how Alex got another after school detention.

"So why did you put gum in Victor's hair?"

"Because she such a brat. She always showing off and saying how "wonderful" she is. Well it time I show her the truth."

"Listen Alex. I not saying I don't approve of what you did, cause I do sort of approve it. But that doesn't mean you can put gum in Victor's hair."

"Come on Micheal. You done worst things than stick gum in a girl's hair."

"Please don't Alex", I beg. "Don't bring that up again."

Alex was about to replied but my phone ring.

"Probably mom", I said.

I look at the caller ID but instead of it reading mom, my phone read unknown.

"Who this?"

I answer the call.

"Hello?"

"Listen", the voice said.

"You are being following, okay? I need you to follow my direction."

"What?! Who is this?"

"It's Ace. Now listen Micheal. I know you're Thrill Rider."

I froze, always dropping my phone. Alex must have notice my suddenly change.

"What wrong with you", he ask.

"Nothing", I replied quickly. I turn my attention back toward Ace.

"How did you get this number? How do you know who am I? What do you want?"

"Do me a favor and calm down."

"Calm down?!​"

"YES! CALM DOWN!"​"

Ace's sudden impulse scare me a bit.

"I will not tell you how I receive your phone number nor will I tell you how I discovered your identify but I Want To Help You."

"What do you mean?"

I look back toward Alex to make sure he wasn't paying any attention. Lucky, he has on earplugs. For once, I actually happen he isn't paying me any attention.

"Listen Micheal. You're begin follow, okay? The person following you is two cars behind you. In the red Forte."

I look in the rear view mirror.

Ace was right. Exactly two cars behind me, pass a blue Optima was a red Forte. The driver wore a tan, fishing cap with a pair of sunglasses.

"Cute disguise", I thought.

"What should I do?"

"First thing first. Do you have suit with you?"

"Yeah but I can't use it."

"Why not?"

"My...brother is in the car with me. I change from Micheal to you know who, he know I'm you know who."

"Just said Thrill Rider."

"Rather not. Anyway, got another plan?"

Ace remain quiet for a while. During his thinking process though, the light turn green.

"Ace. The light turned green. Where are you?"

I think Ace smile. "I'm right next to you."

I look toward my left and saw an elderly lady in a brown Lexus.

"Wrong side", Ace said.

I look toward my right and saw someone in a black Lexus instead. The person was wearing a dark blue jacket and and black and blue cap. He lifted his cap and show me Ace's mask.

"Turn right."

I follow Ace's direction without hesitation. Ace, along with the stalker follow behind me.

"Where are we going", Alex ask.

"Uhhh...We're taking a different way home."

"Why? But aren't we about 15 minutes from home?"

"Yeah but still. Just go back to your music."

Alex shrug and place the ear-buds back in her ears.

"What now?"

"Continue two blocks ahead. Then, on my signal, turn sharply into the alley on your left and speed right through it."

"Okay. And that help how?"

"I take a turn after the the first block and when you drive through the alley, I block off the stranger. Got it?"

"Got it!"

I drove ahead two block and watch as Ace turn left. The stalker follow after me.

As I started to approach the alley, I steer a hard left and jump on the pedal. Alex and I turn hard into the alley and drove fast through the alley. The stalker follow after me.

"What are you doing", Alex yell.

"Hold on", I yell back.

We drove right through the alley and as plan but Ace didn't block off the exit as plan. He was stuck behind traffic.

I look behind me. Now that the stalker knew I was on to him, he pull out a gun and started firing upon us.

I lower my head to avoid the oncoming bullets.

The street suddenly full with people screaming and running. Cars trying to get out of the way.

As soon as the shooting started, Ace started chasing after us. The three of us then drove through the busy streets of Los Angeles.

"What going on", Alex yell, covering her head.

"I don't know", I yell back, "but I plan on getting some answers!"

I look in the side mirror and saw Ace attempting to catch the stalker. He couldn't quickly catch up with us since the citizens kept getting in his way. That meant I has to do this up myself. Yet, with Alex with me, I couldn't change into Thrill Rider.

"Ideas! IDEAS! IDEAS!" I look around for any ideas. Nothing was coming to mind. All I could do was just keep driving! I step hard on the gas and hope for an idea.

After what felt like forever, I started hearing police sirens. Out of nowhere came two police cars. In the front one, was dad.

John Peterson:

"Just keep driving", I said. I press hard on the gas and as I inch closer to the gunman, I pull out my pistol.

"Don't ever think about", my partner yell.

"Shawn! I have to!"

"NO YOU DON"T!"

Instead, Shawn pull out his pistol.

"Just focus on driving and let me do the shooting!"

Shawn open his window and started pulling himself out.

"Try and drive carefully so I don't die!"

Within seconds, he started firing onto the gunman.

For some reasons, the gunman paid no attention to us and kept firing upon my children.

As the chase continue, my worries just kept getting worst. The thought of me losing two of my children.

"Hurry Shawn! Hurry!"

For only a second did I look away, that the street ahead of me filled with even more chaos.

My son suddenly stop his car and with it, the gunman crash right into him. I step hard on the brakes. We probably stop before crashing.

I quickly got out and went to check on Micheal and Alexis.

The gunman rush out his car and started running.

My worry suddenly increase. Micheal has left his car and started running after him. I couldn't worry about him yet. I has to check on Alexis.

I look into Micheal's damage sedan. The back of his car was badly damage, with the two back doors damages a little. Everything else was fine. Alexis was knock out but look okay.

I grab the door and try to pull it loose. The whole door come off and I reach in.

"Call 911", I shouted. I has Alexis in my arms. Shawn come toward me.

"Don't worry John! Medics are coming!"

"Thanks Shawn."

I then look back toward the street. Toward where Micheal and the gunman ran.

"Please", I beg. "Please don't let it happen again."

Ace:

When the polices arrive, I has to stop chasing after Micheal and the stalker. I turn onto a different street but kept on following the stalker.

As I left my car, I witness the crash, I went to check on Micheal but stop shortly. The stalker has started running, with Micheal following right behind him.

"Odd", I thought, considering that his brother, Alex, was still in the car.

Since Officer John was checking on Alex, I left with Micheal to provide backup.

After a few minutes of running, the stalker turn into an alley. Micheal quickly his pace and went straight into the alley. I couldn't catch up with them and before I could enter the alley, I heard two gunshots.

I enter the alley with haste but quickly stop and hid. The scene I has expected to find was completely different.

In the darkness laid an unconscious stranger.

"He must be the gunman."

He wore a tan pant with a camouflages jacket. His skin was pale and has messy brown hairs. Close to his hand was a pistol.

Standing before the man was Micheal. For some reason, he was breathing quite heavier. Must have been from the running.

I left my hiding place and went to approach Micheal.

Before I could get to him, he ran.

"Hey! Wait up!"

I went to get him but stop. I was beside the unconscious man. Upon closer inspection, I notice how part of the his clothes was rip and also how the man's skin seen badly bruise. Unlike the many other times I seen him fight.

"What happen to you?"

I check his pulse. Extremely weak.

I look toward his pistol. I grab his pistol's clip. Not a single bullets.

With nothing to do, I carry the man to the entrance of the alley and left him to be find by the cop.

I then left to find Micheal.

19: Chapter 18: Family Issue

Chapter 19: Family Issues

A/N Enjoy and please leave a review

Micheal Peterson:

It was about 9 pm when dad, Alex, and I enter our home. The second we enter, mom came rushing out of the kitchen. She has heard of the gunman and the chase and everything.

"Micheal! Alex! Are you okay?!"

"Mom", I shouted repeated. "Mom! Mom! Mom!"

Mom stop suddenly.

"Mom. We're okay. A little shaken up and fine."

"Speak for yourself", yell Alex. He headed upstairs. Toward his room I think.

"You won't the one who nearly die."

"What are you talking about", mom ask.

I rub the back of my head. I didn't know what to say. Beside the truth. I took a large gulp of breath.

"To help dad, I stop the car suddenly. It cause the crash. And Alex was in the back seat when the crash happen."

"What", my parent yell.

I remain still. There was absolute nothing I could do.

"But why", my dad ask.

"..."

I lower my head in shame. I went past my parents to my room.

John Peterson:

I turn toward my wife.

"What are we going to do Helen? It happening again.

"I don't know", Helen replied. "All we can do is hope that it end fast."

I hug my wife and watch our son walk toward his room, angry.

Micheal Peterson:

Once there, I went to my desk and hid my head.

"I made a horrible mistake", I thought to myself. "I made a horrible mistake. I made a horrible, stupid mistake!"

I slam my fists onto my desk.

"What happen?! What made me risk my sister's live?! Could be it be happening again?!"

There was nothing I could do. I decide I would just go to sleep. Hopefully, this whole nightmare would end by morning.

20: Chapter 19: A Single Shot

Chapter 20: A Single Shot

A/N Leave a review to tell me about this chapter please. Since I rated this a kid book, I worry this won't fit in.

Ace:

I stood high on top a building, looking out toward the darken city of Los Angeles. The many little, bring lights sparkling. I knew there was going to be troubles next times I saw Thrill Rider. He would desperately want some answers. Like how I discovered who he really is.

I shook my head.

"How can I possible explain this to Micheal? It not like I can tell him we both go to the Los Angeles High School."

I started walking in circle.

"I can't let him know my secret identify. It too risky. I don't know if I can trust him yet. Or whether I can even trust him. "

It wasn't long before my thoughts were disturb by a loud crash. I rush to the ledge and look over. Far below me was a car crash.

"What going on?"

From what I could see, a gray car has crash into a police car. The two officers, along with a prisoner, were taking cover behind their wreck car. They were shooting at someone hiding behind the gray car.

As he rush out from cover, I could see him better.

He was tall, wore a black and gray jacket with white work pant. In his hand was a revolver. The "gunman" rush from one cover to the next. Now, he was on the other side of the wreck police car.

As one of the officer appear from cover, the gunman shot him in the arm. He fell back. His partner went to check on him but as he did, the gunman climb up on the car and tackle him.

The two of them suddenly enter a fist fight. The officer attempt to strike the gunman with a right hook but he counter and punch the officer with a straight in the chest. Once the officer started stumbling, the gunman grab the shoulders and knee him in the stomach. He fell down to the ground.

After the fight, the gunman went to pick up the prisoner and started carrying him away. I shot off one of my grapple ace at the building and jump off. I swung right into the gunman.

"Argh", the gunman yell, falling hard into the ground.

"Drop the weapon", I yell, tossing one of my ace in the air.

The gunman stood back up.

"Leave me alone", he said. "I don't want to fight you."

"Well, too late for that", I said. "You beat up two cops and are attempt to kidnap a prisoner."

The gunman lower his head, like as if he was shameful.

"I not kidnapping a prisoner. I killing him."

Once the prisoner heard what the gunman said, he attempt to free himself. The gunman shot the prisoner in the leg. He fell down to the ground, screaming.

With the gunman's back to me, I rush and started choking him out. I thought I has him, but before I could fully knock him out, he elbow in the hip and force me to release him.

He then quickly turn around and grab me by the shirt, tossing me onto the wrecked police car. As I fell onto the car, the gunman started beating me. Striking me all over. Head, stomach, and even the hips. To escape, I grab one of his fist and twisted.

It mean not have hurt since the gunman didn't even make a sound. He just stumble back a bit.

Free, I took out one of my exploding ace and toss them right at the gunman. The ace exploding and send the gunman flying toward the ground. I rush off to check on the prisoner. He manage to crawl away a few feet.

Before I could get to him, someone has shot me in the shoulder and I felt. I look behind me and saw the gunman. He may have been badly wounded but he was still standing. In his a hand was the revolver I has forgotten about.

With me down, the gunman started limping toward the prisoner. Once the gunman got to the prisoner, he pick up him up and drag him toward his damage car. I try to follow after them but the gunman drove off before I could get to him.

"New plan", I thought.

I got up as fast as I could and ran toward my motorcycle.

I drove around, looking for the damage, gray car. I kept looking around, hoping to save the prisoner before the gunman could kill him. I caught a glimpse of hope, for I saw the gray car. It was parked outside a alley.

I quickly rush in and look around. Beside the usually trashcans, there was nothing. However, there was a fire escape.

I didn't see how the gunman could have carry the prisoner up there but still, I has to check.

I climb up the fire escape and look around.

"Oh no", I said.

Right in the center of the building's roof laid a dead man. The dead prisoner. Close to him was the gunman.

He was standing near the building's ledge, holding his revolver.

Quietly, I started tip-toeing toward him.

"You're too late", the gunman suddenly said.

"He dead."

He started looking at the gun in his hand.

"A single shot to the chest."

Out of nowhere, I felt nothing but angry.

"What did you kill him!"

Instead of answering my question, he said some random gibberish.

"The gun in my hand right now is a .38 caliber revolver. It hold five rounds. Three of which have already been use. That mean I still have two bullets left."

"What?! What does that have to do with killing the man?!"

The gunman remain silent. For some reasons, he open his revolver and let the two bullets fall out.

"Bye."

Before I knew it, the gunman rush toward me. I quickly took out a handful of my throwing aces and toss them right at the gunman. Despite the cuts they left, the gunman still ran right toward me.

I didn't have a chance to block or attack before the gunman grab me and punch me. Stun, the gunman punch me again and I black out.

James Westen:

"Come on", I said. "Wake up."

I took off the Ace mask and started slapping my sister.

"Come on Juliet."

My sister started waking up.

"Ahhh", my sister said. "What happen?"

"You got knock out", I replied.

I help my sister up and we started walking toward the fire escape.

"What are you doing here anyway", Juliet ask.

"When you wouldn't answer, I got worry and rush over here as fast as possible."

We were about to climb down the fire escape but stop. My sister started limping toward the dead man.

"What are you doing?"

"There something I have to check."

Juliet Westen:

I reach the body of the prisoner. I can't believe I never notice this before but... but the prisoner was the man who chased Micheal earlier today. I turned toward my brother.

"Jame", I said. "I think it time Micheal know who Ace is."

21: Chapter 20: Ace's Identify

Chapter 21: Ace's Identify

A/N Okay, some a few issues. One, I notice the chapter numbers are a bit off so I hope you don't mind. Two, yesterday, I finished watching Legend of Korra and the ending suck. Sorry for anyone who hasn't seen it yet but that just my opinion. And last but not least, I thinking of typing my "Legend of Korra" story. Leave a review and please tell me what you think of my idea.

Micheal Peterson:

I splash some cold water in my face as I stare into the mirror.

It was early in the morning, almost 6:30. I had just waken up and went to the bathroom. Feeling a little hot, I splash some cold water in my face.

"Okay", I thought,"Just keep calm."

I started taking heavy breaths. Frankly, I think they were just making thing worse. I took one last deep breath.

"Time I face them."

Putting on a cyan shirt with a pair of tan pant, I left the bathroom and went down to the diner table. As expected, everyone was there. Mom, dad, Henry, and sadly, Alex.

"Hey everyone", I said, running down the stair. "How life?!"

"Life amazing", replied Alex. "Especially when one live."

Alex is usually in a grumpy mode, but today, she was in an extra grumpy mode.

I sat at the table and made myself a small bowl of Honey Bunches. Looking around, I notice how no one was looking at me. Dad was reading the morning paper, mom had gone to wash some dishes, Henry was busy reading, and Alex was staring at her bowl of Honey Bunches.

I took my time eating my breakfast, in hope that someone would break the awkward silence between us.

Eventually, I just finish my cereal and left for school. On the way there, I felt lost. Just completely and utterly lost. I was caught between two different feelings. Should I be feeling grief or angry. Grief for the lost of one of my friend and the lost of my family. Angry because Brian was acting like an idiot and because if it wasn't for me, dad wouldn't have caught the man after me and Alex.

I arrive at my school earlier than expect, and just as I was getting out of my car, I felt a strong grip on my shoulder.

Thinking fast, I crouch down and turn around. My assaulter lost his grip and I was just about to grab his neck but before I could, the assaulter grab my hand. Because of this stalemate, I could now see my assaulter. It was James Westen.

"Hello Micheal", Jame said. "Glad to see you're in a fighting spirit."

"What do you want", I ask.

As Jame was about to talk, I attempt to attack him with my other hand. He saw what I was about to do and block it. Before I could escape, Jame kick me in the stomach and I fell back onto an adjacent car.

Down, Jame stood over me, looking angry.

"Cute", he said. "Next time we fight, I may actually try a bit."

Angry, I got up and rush toward him. Jame simply move to his left and dodge my charge. Instead, I ran right into my car.

I turn around to face Jame, but when I face him, he push me back onto my car and punch me right across the face.

"Done yet?"

"Not yet."

I grab Jame's hand and pull it toward me. Suddenly, it was me who has the upper hand.

Jame stumble toward my car and I quickly move past him. I grab Jame's chest and got into a striking stand.

"I said it once, and I said it again. What do you want?"

"Just one thing. I wanted to show you am Ace."

"What?"

"Are your ears filled with wax or something? I am Ace, you moron. You know, the person who been helping Thrill Rider or should I said "the person who been helping you."

"But... but... why?"

"My father was a soldier in the army. He taught me everything I know. Plus, I taught myself a few things. Like how to do this."

Suddenly, Jame grab my hand and bend it backward. He then stomp on my leg and I fell down onto my knee. Jame then quickly move past me and started choking me out.

"Believe me now."

After a few seconds of this, Jame finally release me.

"I see you later, partner", Jame said, waking off. Like as if nothing ever happen.

After I was done gasping for air, I got up and follow after Jame.

"Not so fast", I yell, getting in front of Jame. I let out my arms and spread out my legs.

Jame stare at me with a blank expression.

"You want me to kick you in the private spot or something?"

"...No. No, I rather you never do that."

Jame roll eyes and push me aside.

"Please leave me alone."

"Hey! Wait up will you?"

"No."

"What no? We're partner. Or are we?"

Just as I said those words, Jame instantly stop.

"I am Ace."

"Then let me ask you something. Something only the real Ace would know."

"What?"

"When did Ace and I first meet?"

"We first met on to a roof. Trying to stop a mugger."

"Hey! Wrong! You're not Ace!"

"What are you talking about?"

I lean over and whisper to Jame what really happen.

"WHAT!"

"Yeah. You're not Ace."

Somehow, my meeting with Ace made Jame angrily than before.

"There someone I need to see."

Jame shove me out of the way and started running.

Before I could do anything, Jame was already gone.

I then started thinking.

"You're not Ace, yet he pretend to be Ace. Why? What could he possible gain from pretending to be someone he isn't?"

Nothing came to mind. Until I remember his sister.

If it true and Jame did learn how to fright from his dad, then there a chance Juliet too learn.

That would mean only one thing. Juliet Westen is Ace.

22: Chapter 21: Fixing a Friendship

Chapter 22: Fixing a Friendship

A/N Sorry about this chapter begin really short. I was really busy when I started typing it. Anyway, enjoy and Please Leave A Review

Ashley Varson:

I wandering around the school courtyard, thinking of a plan. I has to fix the friendship between Brian and Micheal.

They been friends since elementary school and now, they acting like they been enemy since birth. Honestly, I think this fight between they was going out of control. With the men fighting like children, it time for the woman to take charge.

I don't know who really started the fight. Micheal isn't the fighting type but neither is Brian. I figure I could ask one of them what happen but I haven't been able to see either of them in a while.

Now at school, I knew this could be my only chance to talk with them.

"Where are you two", I thought, stopping to look around. Normally, on days like these, Micheal, Brian, and I were be sitting at the lunch tables. Talking. Chatting. Playing games like rock, paper, scissor or thumb war. I miss those days.

Walking by the school library now, I saw Brian. He was sitting by the doorways, staring aimlessly around.

"Brian", I yell, running to him.

"Huh? Ash!"

Brian quickly got up and we hug.

"Ash", he started. "Hey. Aw man. Where have you been?"

"What do you mean by "where have I been"? I been looking for you and Micheal. What happen between the two of you?"

Brian started scratching the back of his head.

"What do you mean? Micheal and I are getting along just fine."

"Serious? Serious? Brian, we been friend since middle school and I knew when you're lying."

"I not lying."

"Brian", I said in an angry voice, crossing my arms.

"Fine. So Micheal and I haven't exactly been getting along."

"Yeah. That I know. What I don't know is WHY you two aren't getting along. Mind telling me."

"It personal."

*sigh*

I grab Brian's hand.

"Brian. I just going to ask you once. Okay?"

"Huh...Sure?"

"Whatever the problem is between you and Micheal, please fix it fast. I can't stand watching you two fight, and bicker, and see your friendship fight apart. You two are the best of friends, and because of that, I believe you and Micheal can fix this. But only together."

I then release Brian's hand and started walking away.

As soon as I got far enough, I quickly hid behind a corner.

*heavy breathing*

"Wow", I thought. "That felt really uncomfortable."

I spend a few seconds recovering before going to find Micheal.

Brian Wane:

I stood still, thinking about what just happen. For once, I never consider what this argument between me and Micheal was doing to Ash. Seeing us fight, despite our long history.

I started pretending like Ash was still with me.

"I'm sorry Ash. I guess I forgot about you. Maybe it time I tell you."

I stood still for a few seconds, thinking of what to do next.

"But first, I think it time Micheal and I have a much needed talk."

I grab my backpack and quickly left to find Micheal.

23: Chapter 22: Morning Mayhem

Chapter 23: Morning Mayhem

A/N Enjoy and Please a Leave Review

Juliet:

I was peacefully drinking from a water fountain, when suddenly, someone grab at my shoulder and pull me back.

"What the-!?"

The person who grab me force me around, and I saw Jame.

"Why didn't you tell me you met him?!"

Jame's angry voice grab the attention of everyone around us.

"Calm down", I said, looking around. Everyone's attention was still on us.

"What are you talking about? What do you mean by "I didn't tell you I met him?"

Jame then pull me closer. As he did, he started whispering.

"I know you and Micheal fought the Black Archer. The Black Archer. Why didn't you tell me? You know I been looking for him since the day dad die."

I was shock. How did Jame ever figure out my encounter with the Black Archer. I never mention it to him or anyone. I then remember one very important detail.

"Micheal", I thought.

I has to think fast. I didn't want my brother to know about the Black Archer since, if he did, I would lose him.

I couldn't think of anything, but lucky, Micheal suddenly grab me by the shoulder.

"Juliet", he said. "I need to talk with you. Now!"

Before I could said anything, Jame interrupt.

"Too late halfwit. We're talking now."

"This is important."

"Yeah, well so is doing your homework. Yet I doubt you actually do any! Juliet!"

Jame pull me toward him. Before I could get any closer, Micheal got in between us.

"What I have to talk about is probably more important than what you have to talk about."

Jame push me aside and started arguing with Micheal. Both of them started yelling at one another. I was about to break them apart when one of Micheal's friends join.

Ash:

"Micheal", I said, grabbing at him.

"Where have you been? I been looking for you."

"What do you mean?"

"You and Brian need to fix thing between you two."

"Ash, what are you talking about? Brian and I are getting along finely."

Micheal then smile.

I roll my eyes.

"Micheal. I'm not idiot. I'm also not blind."

"Excuse me", Jame said, waving his hand in my face.

"In case you didn't notice, your boyfriend and I were having a very important chat."

Jame then eyes Micheal, with a hint of angry in them.

"Micheal is not my boyfriend."

"Yeah. Whatever you want to think."

I has thought of slapping Jame across his face but stop. Brian has step in.

Brian:

"Micheal", I yell. "We need to talk."

"Serious", yell Jame.

"What? Micheal and I just need to have a talk. This has nothing to do with you."

"Micheal and I are already talking. Now go away!"

"I need to talk with Micheal. This is very important."

Jame push me away.

"Hey", Ash shouted. "Do that again and I hit you."

Everyone around us was a little stun by that comment.

"Okay", Micheal said. "Did anyone see that coming?"

Micheal:

"Okay, I lost. Someone help me else here."

"What do you need help with", Juliet ask.

"Who need to talk with who?"

Jame first started, pulling his sister next to him.

"I just wanted to talk with my sister. Somehow, out of nowhere, three morons show up."

I then went up.

"I need to talk with your sister."

I grab at Juliet's arm and pull her toward me.

Ash went after me.

"I wanted to talk with Micheal."

It was then Brian's turn.

"I also wanted to talk with Micheal."

Brian and Ash pull me, along with Juliet, toward them.

"Okay", I said, breaking free from their grip.

"Brian, Ash. What do you two to talk about?"

Ash started talking before Brian could.

"You and Brian have to fix thing. You two have been friends since elementary school."

Brian was about to speak but Ash place her hand on his mouth before he could.

"Not yet."

"Whatever is wrong between you two, just hug, make up, and forgot about the whole thing."

Ash then place her hand down from Brian's mouth.

"Okay, I'm done. Your turn."

"Thanks", Brian said awkwardly.

Brian then started.

"Micheal. Let me start by simple saying sorry for the past few weeks. I admit, maybe I was begin too much of a jerk."

"Jerk", whisper Ash. "Try arrogance bastard."

"Pardon me", Brian said ,"but I believe it my turn."

"Sorry."

"Anyway, I'm sorry for begin a "jerk" to you Micheal, but in my defense, you have been acting strange."

"Strange? Strange how?"

"Strange as in how you been showing up with strange bruises on you. You even once show up like you're been in a fire. You were covered in soot."

"Uh oh", I thought.

My fight with Iron Fire with weeks ago, yet I guess it was still fresh in Brian's mind. I has to think of something to said. Something that would make Brian forget what he said.

"..."

I couldn't think of anything to said. My mind just went blank.

"..."

Juliet:

I stood beside Micheal, waiting for him to said something. He stood there for awhile, with his mouth open.

After watching Micheal a little longer, I felt like helping him.

"Oh look", I said.

"It almost time to go."

I grab Micheal and ran.

As soon as I was out of everyone's view, I stop and face Micheal. I slap him as soon as I face him.

"Ow. Why did you do that?"

"Because it was either that slap or the hardest punch to your eyes ever!"

I started to shake him.

"Why did you tell Jame about our fight with the Black Archer?!"

"What? Why can't Jame know about our fight? Wait. Our fight? You are Ace!"

Thinking fast, I charge Micheal into a wall.

"Be quiet, will you? If you don't mind, I rather the whole school not found out about my little secret."

"Opp. Sorry."

"Anyway. Why did you tell Jame our the Black Archer?"

"What wrong with Jame knowing about the Black Archer?"

"I rather not said right now, okay. Just please. Promise me one thing. Will you?"

"Yeah. Okay. What?"

"Never mention the Black Archer to Jame. Promise?"

Micheal look a little confuse at first, then he promise anyway.

"Okay. I have to go now. Bye."

I left standing alone. I now has to find Jame and explain something to him. Hopefully, he understand.

24: Chapter 23: Information Needed

Chapter 24: Information Needed

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

?:

It is extremely late at night, almost 3 in the morning. I'm in dark alley. The alley is narrow, wet, and is filled with trashcans.

There's a medium-height man, wearing a black coat and blue jean. He has ugly, black hairs that was uncombed and hanging.

"ARGHHH", he yell. He ran toward me and try to punch me.

Before he could punch me, I grab his shoulder and knee him in the stomach. I then toss him into a row of trashcans. The trashcans all fall over, some landing on him.

​"I WON'T ASK AGAIN! WHEN AND WHERE IS IT GOING TO HAPPEN!?"

Scare, the man got up and ran to me. I quickly pull out my gun. He stop, holding up his hand. I walk up to him and place my revolver right against his forehand.

".38 caliber revolver. Hold five rounds. I need only one to kill you."

The man is now breathing heavily.

"I know who you are. You're Karmen Richen. A member of the 23rd Street Gang. You and your idiot pals are planning a break out for your boss, Mike Cutler. I want to know how and when.

"How...how do you know that? Only certain members of the gang know about the break up."

"I got way of knowing. Like how I going to know about the whole operations."

I move my revolver down toward his leg and shot him.

"ARGHHH!"

Karmen fell down, covering his wound.

"YOU...YOU...YOU SHOT ME!"

Angry, I shot Karmen in his other leg.

Karmen scream even louder.

"ARGHHHH!"

He started to breath heavily, covering both his bullet wounds. Blood quickly ooze out as he roll back and fore.

I spoke calmly, moving the gun back to his forehead.

"Tell me what you know about the break out and I get you to a hospital."

Crying now, Karmen slowly spoke.

"I...I can't tell you. If I do, the others will kill me."

I couldn't help but smile an evil smile. I place my gun back into my pant.

"They won't kill you."

"Why not?"

"Because I going to kill them all."

Stun by my remark, I got up and shot Karmen one last time.

"Waste of my time", I said angrily.

I walk causally over to my stolen, black sedan. Once inside, I open the glove compartment and took out a small notepad.

"Karmen Richen. Useless."

I cross out his name before letting a sigh.

"Five names and still nothing. NOTHING."

I punch the steering the wheel.

"Almost out of names. Alex Moore and Zack Read."

I step on the gas and went to find Alex. From what I could gather, he can usually be found at McHalen's Bar.

"Well Mr. Alex Moore, I hope you enjoy your time at the bar. Cause it's going to be your last. "

After awhile, I finally arrive at McHalen's Bar. Honestly, the place was a lot more worst than I expect. From the outside, the place was wore down. The paint was peeling off the wall. There was bags of trash everywhere. The windows were even broken.

I park around the corner and walk into the alley with the bar's backdoor. I then lean against the wall and waited.

During the wait, I reloaded my revolver.

".38 caliber revolver", I thought. "Hold five rounds. Need only one to kill."

I place the gun back in my back pocket and cross my arms.

*20 Minutes Later*

Alex Moore, who is wearing a blue jacket and brown jean, stumble out of the backdoor into the alley.

"Hey pal. Do you have a li-"

I walk up to him and punch Alex across the face. Alex fell over.

"WHAT...WHAT WAS THAT?"

With Alex down, I started kicking him in the stomach, repeated.

After a few minutes of constant kicking, I grab his shirt collar and slam him into a wall. I then pull of my gun.

"WHOA, WHOA PAL! EASY! WHAT EVERY IT IS YOU WANT, I GIVE IT TO YOU! YOU WANT MY WALLET!"

Alex quickly pull out his wallet and offer it to me. Without a second thought, I shot his wallet. It drop out of his hand.

"I don't want your money", I said coldly. "I want some information."

"Information? What information?"

"Mike Cutler's breakout."

"..."

"I know your gang is planning on breaking Cutler of from prison. I want to know how, where, and when."

Like Karmen, Alex was now scare. He was shaking in his pant.

"I don't know about any breakout."

"Yeah, why don't you tell that to someone who will actually believe you."

I then pistol whip him. Within seconds, he started bleeding.

Before I could pistol whip him again, the door to the bar open. A tall, fat man with a bald head and orange beard walk out.

"Must have heard the gunshot", I thought.

"Hey! What going on here?"

I wasn't going kill an innocent bystander. I has to "interrogate" Alex elsewhere. Looking around, I smash Alex's head into the wall. He fell down. With Alex down, I grab a piece of junk from the ground and toss it at the fat man. It hit him, stunning him. Stun, I ran up and punch him.

Lucky for me, it didn't take much for me to knock the fat man out. I then turn back to Alex. He was still leading against the wall.

I walk over to him and drag him to the car. After tossing Alex into my cars, I got in the driver's seat and went to find Zack Read.

Interrogating Alex was going take awhile. I didn't have all night. However, interrogating both Alex and Zack would save some time.

"I see you soon, Zack Read."

25: Chapter 24: Partner?

Chapter 25: Partner?

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

Micheal:

The Day After

I was sitting at one of the table in the hotel's dining room, gently tapping my hand on the table. Brian and I were now okay, but now, I has problem with my family.

Yesterday, Alex started feeling a little sick so my dad drove her to the hospital. It turn out that, because of the crash, Alex injury her head a bit. Now she in the hospital and I'm in trouble with my whole family. I'm been trying to think of a way to fix all of this.

"What to do", I thought. "What do I do now?"

I felt lost and confuse. For two whole days, I been avoiding my family the best I can. Showing up only during meals or for sleep.

Deep in thought, I didn't notice someone walking into the dining room.

"What are you thinking", ask Juliet suddenly. She then sat across from me.

"ARGGGHHH", I yell, my back hitting the seat.

It took a few seconds, but I was finally able to get my bearing.

"Juliet? What...How...You..."

Juliet then laugh a cute laugh.

"Don't worry. I'm not here to cause trouble. I'm just here to talk."

"Talk? Talk about what?"

"Talk about a possible partnership. You know, between Thrill Rider and Ace."

Surprise, I think I spend a more few seconds staring into space with my mouth wide open.

"You okay", Juliet ask.

I snake my head.

"Yeah..Yeah, I fine. I'm just...a little confuse."

"Confuse about what? We're kind of already working together. And, not to mention, I did saved you a bunch of time."

"...Thanks you", I said awkwardly. I started to scratch the back of my head.

"Remain calm", I thought.

"You've been in way worst situation. You face a guy who shot fire while wearing a completely suit of iron. You face a guy who threw bombs at you. You recently face a crazy, psychopath man with a pair of machetes."

I took a deep breath.

"You got this."

I look at Juliet and was about to speak.

Juliet:

I don't know why but for some reasons, Micheal stare into space again. With his mouth open, again.

I let out a sigh before getting out a piece of paper from my pocket.

"Here", I said. I offer he the piece of paper.

"What is this?"

"It's my address."

"Your address?"

I roll my eyes.

"Yes, my address. Normally, a girl would give a guy her phone number, but unfortunately, I don't have a phone number. So this is the next best thing."

Micheal look at the paper.

"What are you giving me this?"

"Call it a show of faith."

I then got up and left Micheal in the dining room.

Before leaving the dining room, I stop and look at Micheal. He was still surprise by me giving him my address.

"I see you later."

I then left the hotel and went into a car park across the hotel.

"I still don't approve of this", my brother said as I enter the car.

"Yeah well, I think we will need him. Just trust me, will you?"

Jame let out a grump before driving off.

26: Chapter 25: 38

Chapter 26: 38

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

Micheal:

I look back at the piece of paper Juliet gave me.

"748 Downer Avenue."

I then look at the building. It was a two-story house, painted white with red roofs. The house has a large garage door, with a huge, silver SUV in the drive. By the front door was a small but beautiful rose garden.

It hasn't even been a full 24 hours yet before I decided to take up Juliet's offer to be my partner.

Mustering up some courage, I walk up to the front door and ring the doorbell. I waited awhile before someone open the front door. The person who open the front door was a man.

He was tall, muscular, and has handsomely, combed, brown hair. His face was oval-shaped, with a sharp chin and he has some evil-looking eyes. He wore a blank, gray shirt with some wore-out jean.

"...Hello."

The man then started to lend against the door frame. Honestly, if I has any common sense, I think I would have run back to my car and drive as fast and as far as possible.

"Hello", the man reply coldly. "Who are you?"

"I..am...Micheal. I..am..looking...for your daughter, Juliet."

"Juliet Westen", repeated the man. "Daughter?"

"Uhh, yeah. Your daughter, Juliet. She give me this piece of paper."

I handed the..."scarcely" man the piece of paper.

He took the paper from me and stare at it for awhile.

"Um", the man said. "Sorry kid, but Juliet ain't my daughter."

"She not your daughter? But she give me this address."

"This is foster house, kid. Juliet, and her brother do live here. Along with five other kids."

"Foster home?"

Before the man could said anything else, Juliet interrupted.

"Sorry Joe", she said, brushing the man aside.

"Joe, this is my friend, Micheal. He here to help me."

Juliet then grab my shirt and pull me inside.

I follow after Juliet through the house, passing a few small kids playing with some toys. They must be the other kids Joe mention.

As we "walk" through the house, Juliet and I finally stop in a small room. The room was square-shaped, with a large window across from us. The room has bunk beds on two of the walls.

Juliet shut the door behind us and went to one of the bunk beds. She lifted the higher mattress and reach under it. A minute later, she pull out a thin folder.

"Here", she said.

I grab the folder and look in it. There were picture of a tall man. He wore a gray jacket with white work pant. What I really notice was the gun in his hand. It was a .38 caliber revolver.

"There a reason what I asking for your help now."

I stare at the picture.

"38", I said.

"38?"

"It what I call him. You know, because he use a-"

".38 caliber revolver. Yeah, I know. I fought him before."

"Really? How well did that go?"

"He knock me out."

"Uh, luck you."

"Lucky me?"

"Yeah. Last time I fought 38, he knock me out and shove me into the trunk of a car. Spend a full day in that trunk and by the time I come out, my legs felt like jelly."

"Wow."

"Yeah, but that wasn't the worst part. The worst part was trying to explain to everyone what happen."

Juliet and I chuckle.

"Anyway", Juliet said. She stop laughing.

"I really need your help. Recently, "38" has been killing people. Shot."

"I know. The odd thing, I haven't seen 38 in about a year. He basically disappear."

"And now he back", said a voice from behind.

"What the-", I shouted, turning around. Jame stood in the doorway, looking at me with his usually evil eyes. Only a lot worst than Joe.

"Hey Jame."

"Micheal."

Jame then notice the folder in my hand.

"Which folders is that?"

"Folders? There more than one."

"We have folders on all the villains you fought. Ryan Fix. Danny Simpson. Robert Laxer. Malcolm David."

"Ryan Fix? Malcolm David?"

"Ryan is Run and Gun and Malcolm is Vengeance", Juliet said.

"You have folders on all these guys?"

"You don't have a single file on the people you fight", ask Jame.

"..."

Jame started walking toward me.

"You just walk into a battle, fight the bad guy, and walk away, don't you?"

"..."

Jame then look at his sister.

"And you want me to "trust" him?"

Jame let out a huge sigh.

"Who is he reading about?"

"The gunman. Or as Micheal called him, 38."

"Cute name. Do you know anything useful about him?"

"Uhh,...No."

"Swell."

Jame grab the folder from me and place it back.

He then left the room, stopping in the hallway.

"Come on. We're need to know more about 38 if we're going to stop him."

"Where are we going", I ask.

"The Los Angeles Police Department."

27: Chapter 26: The Plan

Chapter 27: The Plan

Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

Jame:

"So please explain to me something", I ask, trying my hardest not to smash Micheal's head against the car's window.

"Your dad work as a police officer for the LAPD, right?"

"Yeah", Micheal reply.

"So why can't you just walk into the station and get what we need?"

"Because there are a few issues between me and my dad. Actually, there issues between me and my whole family."

"What happen", Juliet ask.

"I did something really stupid. Something that isn't going to be easy to fix."

"Hm", I murmur.

"Well, don't worry", Juliet said. She place her hand on his shoulder.

"I"m sure you find a way to fix this."

"Thank", you reply.

Wanting to stop this, I quickly speed up a little before stepping on the brake. While Juliet stay in her seat, Micheal flew up and slam into the front passenger seat.

"We're here", I said, opening the door and getting out.

I then went to Micheal and "kindly" pull him out.

I then escorted him quickly over to the station's entrance. Before entering, I whisper to Micheal.

"Listen Micheal. Do me a favor and leave my sister alone."

"What?! What are you talking about?"

"Don't play dumb. You're already too much of an idiot. Just leave her alone."

I shove Micheal aside and went into the station.

Juliet:

I watch from a distance as Jame and Micheal started talking about something at the station's entrance. Whatever it was about, it was short and annoy Jame. He shoved Micheal out of the way and went into the station.

I ran up to Micheal as he was about to enter the police station. Micheal held the door open.

"What was that about?"

Micheal shrug.

"I do not know."

We then enter the station.

Micheal:

I felt nervous enter the police station. I knew my dad was going to be here, and under normal circumstances, I would be happy to see him. But now, I'm more than willing to give up my life as Thrill Rider if it meant my dad WOULD BE ANYWHERE BUT HERE.

As I walk into the station with Jame and Juliet, I kept a close eyes on my surrounding. We quietly walk into a small corner so no one would see us.

The Los Angeles Police Department, or LAPD, is usually busy. Normally, there would be the annoying sound of ringing phone, struggling criminals, and shouting from Captain Stan to his fellow officers.

The buildings itself, is tall, cube-shaped, with about a hundreds windows on three sides, and there was another rectangle-shaped building attached to the cube. There's a huge water fountain, just outside the front door, and a small grove by the fountain.

"Okay", Jame said.

"Here's the plan. You're going to distract everyone while Juliet and me grab the file of 38."

"What?! NO!"

Suddenly, Jame punch me.

"Owww", I shouted, stumbling around.

I face Jame.

"What was that for?"

"Keep your voice down. We're not exactly doing something "legal"."

"Yeah, well...How am I going to distract everyone here? I mean, do you even know here the file is."

"Yes. And as for distracting everyone, that's easy."

Jame then grab me and knee me hard in the stomach. He then toss me onto the station's floor, right in the open for everyone to see me.

"Micheal", shouted almost all the officers.

When I was little, I often come here with dad. That how most of the officer knew me.

Anyway, as Officer Frank and Officer William help me to my feet, I saw Jame and Juliet sneaking toward...

"Micheal", said a voice from behind.

"Uh-oh", I whisper. The voice sounded too familiar.

I turn around and face my dad.

All of a sudden, I started feeling nervous,... and scare,... and... and... and just plain terrified.

"Hey dad", I said, waving.

"Hey son", he reply.

He stood still, with his arms folded. He didn't look angry, or disappointed to see me. Instead, he just look at me with a plain expression.

For the few first minutes, it was just awkward silent. Then, my dad started talking.

"I don't see you at the house that often."

"Uhh...yeah. I'm been busy the last few days."

"Too busy to visit your sister in the hospital? You know, the sister you put in the hospital."

I didn't know how to reply, so I just continue to causally talk.

"...Yeah. Been really busy with school, and work, and a few other things."

"Um. Your mother and little brother miss you."

"Okay. I...I'll been sure to come by the house later."

"Thanks."

"No problem."

We then reenter the awkward silent. Before any of us could speak, there was a crashing sound. Someone had toss the coffee machine, which normally was in the center station, across the room.

All of the officers were simply standing around, surprise by what happen.

During this, someone grab me by the shirt and pull me away.

I look behind me and saw it was Jame.

"Thanks for the distraction", he said.

He, along with Juliet, pull me out of the station.

"Thanks to you, we were able to get this."

Jame pull from his pocket a large, tan wide. It seen thin.

"That's how much the police have on 38."

"Yeah", Juliet reply.

"Apparently, the police don't have that much information on him either."

"What information do them have on him?"

"See for yourself."

Jame then gave me the file.

I open it and find nothing but a few sheets of papers.

"This is all they have?!"

"Yep."

"This can't be right."

I then got an idea.

"Hey! Maybe there is more."

As soon as I said "more", the three of us stop walking.

"What do you mean", Jame ask.

"There's a chance maybe the officer trying to solve the case is keeping some information hidden. Whose desk did you get this from?"

"The desk closer to the windows."

"Closer to the window", I repeated.

"Wait? This desk didn't happen to have a pistol under the desk, a pistol under in all the drawers, and a pistol hidden in the paperwork, did it?"

"Well, we don't know about the pistols in the drawer, but we did found the pistol under the desk and in the paperwork."

I let out a sigh before hitting myself.

"AAARRRRGGGGHHHHH!"

"What! What! What!"

"JULIET! That's my DAD'S desk!"

I then started walking around in circle.

"It has to be my dad, didn't it?"

I guess Jame must have gotta tried of my pacing because he walk right up to me and punch me, again.

"Get a hold of yourself!"

"Okay", I shouted. I took a few deep breathes.

"Okay. So what the plan?"

Jame thought for a few minutes.

"I got a plan. Follow me."

Jame started leading us toward his car.

"So what's the plan?"

"Two words. Family dinner."

28: Chapter 27: The New Plan

Chapter 28: The New Plan

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

Micheal:

"NOOO", I shouted, slicing the air with my hand.

"THERE IS NO WAY I'M GOING TO A FAMILY DINNER!"

It was late in the afternoon, only about an hour after stealing the polices' file on 38, Juliet, James, and I were all sitting in the lunchroom of the hotel.

We were here trying to figure out our next plan. James wanted me to have a family dinner with my father, just in the HOPE that he knew something about 38 that wasn't mention in the file. I wanted to avoid the whole situation, and found some other ways to know more about 38. A way that didn't involve my dad.

Completely ignoring my burst of rage, James spoke.

"Listen Micheal. I know all about you and your family issues. BUT WE DO TO STOP 38. He is too dangerous."

I got up from my seat and started walking around the lunchroom.

"What are you doing", Juliet ask.

"Pacing help calm me down and help me come up with new idea."

"Like how to find out more about 38 without having to attend a family dinner?"

"Exactly."

"So do you have any ideas yet?"

"...No."

I return to my seat with shame. I knew we had to somehow stop 38, but we couldn't just suit up and go out looking for him. He's practically a ghost. Disappearing the second he is done with whatever he needed to do.

"But what happen if he doesn't know anything?"

"You're the one who said that officer something hide thing", reply James.

"If your father doesn't know anything, then we have to come up with a new plan. But for now, starve."

I was about to comment on James' suggestion to starve, but before I could, my phone started ringing.

"Hmm."

I took out my phone and look at the caller ID. Brian was calling me.

"Excuse me", I said. I rush toward the exit of the lunchroom.

"Hello?"

"THRILL RIDER", Brian shouted.

"Thrill Rider", I thought to myself. "What?"

"Listen! You really need to see this!"

I then receive a message from Brian. The message was nothing but a bunch of police records. The police records was show five different men.

"What is this?"

"All these men were found dead early this morning. Shot in the chest by a .38 caliber revolver. I thought you might want to check it out."

"Okay. Thanks"

"There something else you might need to know. All these men would part of the 23rd Street Gang."

"23rd Street Gang?"

"Yeah. You know, the 23rd Street Gang. You left their leader, Mick Cutler, in the basement of the Grammy Museum."

A million thoughts were rushing through my head.

"Mick Cutler. The 23rd Street Gang. 38."

"Call you back."

I hung up the phone and went back to the Westens.

"Look like I'm going be having some of my mother's meatloaf tonight."

"What are you talking about", Juliet ask.

"Look at these."

I show James and Juliet the pictures Brian sent me.

"Each of these men were members of the 23rd Street Gang."

"What do you mean by "were members of the gang"?"

"Last night, 38 shot and killed all these men."

"Why?"

"No ideas. But I guess it up to me to find out."

Checking the time on my phone, I once again headed for the exit. Just before I could leave, I was stop by James.

"Hold on", he said. "We're coming along."

"What", both Juliet and I said.

"Juliet and I are coming along to provide backup support."

"Backup support?"

"Yeah. You got a problem?"

James didn't even let me speak before answer.

"Glad to see you're problem-free. Let's go."

James then bump me out of the way and left for my house.

"Oh, I can already tell I'm going hate this."

I then left the hotel, with Juliet following after us.

Two Hours Later

Micheal's House

I stop right before the front door of my house to look back at the car James and Juliet was sitting in.

"I will never forgive you for this", I said, speaking through the earplug James had given me.

After leaving the hotel, Jame suggested that we go back to his home to pick up a few equipment. At his home, we pick up a few small earplugs for communication. Supposedly, we need them. But if you ask me, James just want to listen to when I said something so bad, it somehow get my family to hate me even more. Now whether or not that actually possible.

"Yeah, like I actually care whether or not you forgive me."

I lower my head.

"I really, really hate this day."

Lifting my head back up, I open the door into my house.

"Open", I said, looking around.

The place felt different without Alex. Normally, "he" would be in the living room watching t.v. The volume would be up so high, even a deaf man could hear it.

As I took a few steps into the house, I heard a familiar voice from the kitchen.

"Henry, is that you?"

"No mom", I reply. "It's me. Micheal."

"Micheal", my mom reply. "Micheal!"

My mother then came rushing out of the kitchen. Beside wearing a hot pink shirt and some jean, she has on a pair of oven mitts and a flower-cover apron.

"Micheal", she said again. "Sweetie."

She gave me a warm hug.

I hug her back.

"Hi mom. It's awesome to see you again."

We hug for a long while, before letting go.

"Where have you been", my mom ask.

Searching for the right words, I wave my hands around.

"I been... sort of busy. You know, "with work, and school, and Brian and Ash. Brian especially"."

All of sudden, mom's happy tone and mode just disappear.

"Oh", she said.

"What's wrong", I ask.

"It's nothing. It's just that, according to your father, you haven't visited Alex."

I stop my mother before she could say more.

"Listen mom. I know I haven't been to the hospital to see Alex and all, but like I said, I'm busy."

James:

"Yeah, keep telling yourself that", I quietly said to myself.

While Micheal kept on lying to his mother, I kept my eyes on the door. I was waiting for Micheal's dad to arrive. He should have arrive by now.

"Where that is crazy father of Micheal", I said aloud.

"Shut up", Juliet said suddenly.

"Mr. John is not crazy."

Shaking my head, I "calmly" reply.

"The man has four different guns hidden in his desk. One hidden under his desk, one hidden among all the papers and files on his desk, and two hidden in the drawers."

"He's a officer."

"Yes. He's an officer, not owner of a "Guns R Us"."

Juliet was about to said something but before she could, a voice came from behind.

"What the-"

"Shhh", I scream suddenly before grabbing a radio from the back.

Ignoring everything else, I was listening for two main words. Black bow.

"Code 90. Madman on the loose in the Scion Tower. Armed with a black bow. Proceed with extreme cautious."

"I finally got you, you rat bastard", I said.

I step hard on the gas and quickly went to the Scion Tower.

"WHOA", Juliet shouted.

"Where are we going?!"

"Scion Tower!"

"What at Scion Tower?!"

"The Black Archer! Finally, after 10 years, I get the chance to kill him!"

29: Chapter 28: Old Enemy

Chapter 29: Old Enemy

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

Micheal:

"Did I hear that right", I thought to myself.

"Did James just said he's going to kill the Black Archer?"

"Excuse me", I said to my mother.

I quickly run out of the dinner room and headed for the bathroom. Checking to be sure no one was around, I took James's earplug out of my ear.

"Okay. How does this work?"

I started tapping the little earplug.

"Hello? Juliet, can you hear me? Hello? Anyone there?"

"MICHEAL", Juliet shouted, almost bursting my eardrum.

"Juliet", I shouted back.

"Please. I only have two eardrums."

"MICHEAL! WE'RE HEADED TO SCION TOWER!"

"Scion Tower? What?"

Scion Tower was the main headquarter for Mr. Lincon Scion. Mr. Lincon Scion is one of the wealthy businessman in all of Los Angeles. He is also one of the kindest businessman in of Los Angeles. Always donating to schools and pet shelter. He also donate to the police stations, which make him friends with the police chief and the mayor. Why would James and Juliet want to go to Scion Tower?

"Juliet! What are you and James going to Scion Tower?!"

"THE BLACK ARCHER IS THERE!"

"So I did hear that", I said to myself. "Swell."

And unfortunate, I heard the other part.

I didn't want to leave the family diner, and disappoint my mother, but if I didn't, someone would would end up, almost... would end up badly injury. And just for the record, I wasn't talking about the Black Archer.

I quickly left the bathroom, and rush toward the front door. Before I could grab my car keys, mom stop me.

"Micheal, where are you going? Aren't you staying for diner?"

"Sorry mom but I HAVE to go. Brian... is... uh... doing something that... Brian and Ash are doing some homework and need my help."

"But Micheal, you-"

"BYE MOM!"

I grab my car key, rush out the front door, and got into my car.

"Oh, that's going haunt me for a really, really long time. Jame, you better appreciate this."

Juliet:

"If Micheal show up", James said. "I'm going to kill him."

I slowly shook my head.

"James", I said in my best, calm voice.

"Micheal is coming."

"I don't need him. He'll just screw things up."

"No he will not."

"Yeah, well. Either way, I HAVE to do this alone. Which make me sorry for doing this."

James suddenly stop the car and shove me out. I fell out from James's car and onto the sidewalk. As I was getting up, James quickly drove off.

"JAMES", I shouted, running after him. I didn't get far before giving up. James was already too far ahead.

Thinking of what to do next, I use my earplug to call Micheal.

"MICHEAL! WHERE ARE YOU! I NEED A PICKUP!"

"Hold on", Micheal shouted back.

"I'm on Li-...Wait, did you just say you need a "pickup"?"

"SHUT UP AND HELP ME, MICHEAL!"

"Okay, okay. I see you now. Hold on."

I watch as Micheal pull up in his car.

"Get in", he shouted.

I quickly got into Micheal's car as he quickly drove off.

"Okay Juliet! I need some answer! Like why James is heading to Scion Tower? And why did he throw you out of his car like that?"

I spend about a full ten minutes explaining the whole situation to Micheal. I explained to Micheal about the Black Archer begin at the Scion Tower. James's plan for revenge against him. I even told Micheal about James's throwing me out of the car for my own protection.

"Wow", Micheal said after my explanation.

"Okay. Well that almost explain everything."

"Almost everything", I repeated.

"Yeah, almost everything. You didn't tell me why James want to kill the Black Archer."

I started to nervously rub my head.

"Yeah, you see, I actually don't know."

"What?!"

"It's just that whenever I try and bring up the Black Archer, James either just walk away or ignore me."

"Hmm."

I was about to ask Micheal what he meant by "hmm", but we had finally arrive at Scion Tower.

Micheal:

Scion Tower is one of the tallest building in all of Los Angeles. Almost a hundred stories. The building is oval-shaped, with black, one-sided windows covering the whole building. At the very top of the building, is "Scion Tower" in italic.

As Juliet and I pull up to Scion Tower, I saw James's car, park a few feet ahead of us. From the look of it, James was in a rush. His car's door was left wide open.

"Okay", I said, getting out of the car with Juliet.

"Here's what going happen. Okay?"

Juliet nodded.

"Okay. I'm going in through the front door as Thrill Rider, and look for James."

I then started to take off my shirt.

"Wait! Wait! Wait", Juliet repeated.

"That's the plan? Serious?"

"No", I reply strongly. "That is MOST CERTAINLY NOT THE PLAN."

"Then what is the plan?"

"I don't have one. Notice, I said "Here's what going happen". Notice I didn't said "Here's the plan"."

After explaining my "logic" to Juliet, I quickly left her in the car and rush toward the building's front door.

Before heading in, I look back at Juliet. She was still in the car. I show her a thumb-up, as a sort of symbol for "I got this". I then went into the building.

Now I actually been to Scion Tower before, so I know under normal condition, the lobby would be crowded. Even at night. There would be these people in suits constantly running around. The secretary would be busy answering the many phones she in charge of. Even the people sitting down would be busy on their laptop. Now, the lobby was empty.

The lobby was dark, the only light coming from the front entrance. Cautiously, I slowly took a few steps into the lobby. I didn't get far into the lobby before seeing someone on the ground. He look unconscious. Forgetting my cautious approach, I rush to see if he was okay, only to slip a few seconds later.

"ARGHHH", I shouted as I fell onto the marble floor.

I quickly got up to see if my "yelling" has attaching anyone. Everything look the same. Dark, scary, and really, really creepy. I look back to see what I slip on. It was a piece of paper. Now looking around, I saw that the lobby's floor was covered in papers. From the look of it, the people that were normally here, ran. Dropping the papers as they ran for... "the elevator"?"

"Why would people panicking run deeper into the building instead of running out?"

I didn't even have a second to think about it before hearing a bunch of small explosions. It sounded like it came from above.

Thinking fast and carefully, I look around for a stairwell. If I remember correctly, there was one located in the far corner. I rush toward the door leading to the stairwell and look up.

"Oh swell", I murmur. From what I could tell, the explosion were coming from... the 25th floor. Taking a deep breath, I started running up the stair.

James:

I slowly turn around a corner, bow and arrow ready in hand.

"Where are you", I thought.

I was about to run toward a wall for hiding, but as I did, someone kick me in the arm. I accidentally fire my arrow at the floor as it exploded. I look to see who kick me. There standing right before me in a black, hood and mask was the Black Archer.

"Hello", the black archer said in a cocky voice.

He then hit across me the face with his bow so hard that I fell back onto one of the wall of the office space.

I didn't have time to recover before the Archer stomp hard on my chest. He then aim one of his arrow at me.

"AAARRRRGGGHHH!"

"Did you really think you can beat me? We fought this battle before, and every time we have, I HAVE BEATEN YOU! The only reason I have not kill you is because you're worthless."

Angry now, I scream before grabbing my bow with both of my hand and strike the Archer in his ankle. Instead of giving me the opening I needed, the Archer counter and grab my bow.

"Pathetic", the idiot said.

He lifted his foot a bit only to stomp down again. He then continue to stomp on my chest. I try stopping him every ways I could, but he would keep countering. I didn't know how much longer I could last.

Juliet:

I has to save my brother. I didn't know how much longer James could hold out. Thinking fast, I took out one of my exploding ace and threw it at the Archer. Busy stomping on James, he didn't notice I or my exploding ace. It blew up right in front of him. He may have been stun only for a few seconds, but that was all James needed.

James:

"What is Juliet doing here", I thought.

"She shouldn't be here!"

Noticing my stun enemy, I forgot about Juliet. I grab the Archer's foot and twisted it. He scream in pain. Now more stun, I grab my bow with both of my hands and smash it across his face. He stumble back, and I wastes only a second before charging him into another office's wall. With the position change, I started hitting the Archer in his stupid face.

"AM I PATHETIC NOW?!"

I only manage to hit him a few times before he grab my shirt and punch me in the nose. I fell back as blood started to run my face. Distracted, the Archer took out one of his arrow from his quiver and stab me in the arrow with it.

"JAMES", Juliet yell.

Falling over, I starting breathing heavy.

Juliet:

Rushing to save James, I threw some of my aces at the Archer. He was able to block all of them, but I didn't care. Distracted by my aces, I rush to aid James.

"James", I said.

"Come on! Come on! Stay with me!"

Blood started flowing out of James. Thinking fast, I place my hands around his wounds. The plan was to apply pressure. I didn't know what applying pressure did, but supposedly, it what a person should do if someone is bleeding. I didn't get much time to apply pressure before the Archer grab me and pull me off.

Getting up as fast as I could, I enter a fighting stance. There, standing between me and my dying brother, was the Black Archer.

"Got any more surprises", the Archer ask.

"Yeah", said a voice.

"Just one more!"

Out of nowhere, Micheal came rushing out and punch the Archer right across the jaw.

"Thrill Rider", I shouted.

"Hey", Micheal reply.

"How's life?"

30: Chapter 29: Some Bad History

Chapter 29: Some Bad History

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

James:

I look at the arrow struck in my hip.

"Aaaaahhhh."

I then look at the Black Archer and Juliet. Somehow, the Archer was laying on the ground, slowly trying to get back up.

"What", I thought.

What was even more shocking was Micheal.

He was talking to Juliet. They talk for awhile before splitting up. Micheal went over to deal with the Black Archer, who now was standing. As for Juliet, she rush over to me and started helping me up."

"Come on", she shouted.

"We're leaving!"

"WHAT", I scream.

"NNNOOOOO!"

I attempt to break away from Juliet but when I did, she "bump" the arrow.

"AAAARRRRRRGGGGGHHHHHH!"

"Wanna try that again", Juliet ask.

Micheal:

Taking out my two batons, I charge toward the Black Archer.

I rose my two batons high above my head before bringing them down onto the Archer. Unfortunately, he was able to block my attack with his bow. Still, I continue to push down on the Archer.

I don't know why, but for some reasons, the Archer started laughing.

"Look like I might be able to collect that bounty after all", he said.

"Bounty", I thought.

"What bounty?"

"The 10 million dollars bounty the Raven place on you."

"Raven", I repeated.

Before I could ask about the "Raven", the Archer quickly jump back. I fell, face first, into the carpet floor. I look up as the Archer took out one of his arrow. Thinking fast, I roll away. Just as the arrow pierce through the floor. After my narrow escape, I look toward the elevator as Juliet and James slowly walk in. She then press the button, closing the elevator and escaping.

"YES!", I thought.

Now it's was my turn to escape. I got up as fast as I could and rush back toward the stair.

On my way to the stair, I notice the Archer preparing another arrow. Hoping this would work, I toss one of my baton at the Archer. He may have be able to catch it in time, but while he was showing off, I started my journey down the stair.

"Here I go again."

Juliet:

As James and I continue down the elevator, he started yelling at me.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?! WHAT IS THAT IDIOT, MICHEAL DOING HERE?! WHY DID YOU TAKE ME AWAY?! I COULD HAVE TAKEN HIM!"

Trying my best to ignore James, I started calling Micheal on the ear pieces.

"Hello", I said.

"Micheal, can you hear me?"

For awhile, all I could hear was heavy breathing. I then heard Micheal and one of his silly comment.

"Next time we battle someone on the 25th floor of a really, really tall building, can I PLEASE TAKE THE ELEVATOR."

Trying my best not to giggle, I ask about the Black Archer.

"Micheal, is the Black Archer behind you?"

"Uhh... No. It look like he gone."

"Gone?"

"Well, not exactly gone, but not following me."

I didn't give much thought to the Archer not following Micheal. James had my full attention. He stopped screaming a few minutes ago so the blood lost must be getting to him.

"OH NO. NO! NO! NO!"

"Juliet, what going on?! What wrong with James!?"

"HE BLEEDING! I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO?! SHOULD I PULL THE ARROW OUT?!"

"NOOOO", Micheal shouted.

"DON'T PULL IT OUT!"

"Why?!"

"It's important NOT TO PULL OUT THE ARROW. If you pull out the arrow, blood will come flooding out. Just leave the arrow, laid James against the walls, and apply pressure to the wound."

Not completely understand Micheal, I decide to follow him. I carefully laid James against the wall of the elevator. I then place my hands against his wound.

"Okay Micheal. I'm laid James against the wall, and now, I'm placing pressure. Now what?"

"Now we take James back to the hotel."

"The hotel?"

"I keep some supplies at the hotel, in case of emergency. Meet me there when you and James get in the car."

"Got it!"

I then let Micheal get back to his "jog".

I waited another few minutes before rushing out of the lobby into James's car. I then quickly drove off, heading for the hotel, and leaving behind Micheal and the Black Archer.

The Black Archer:

Smiling, I stood looking out the windows of Scion Tower. From where I was standing, I could see two cars, one of which had their door open.

I watch as two out of the three "vigilante" came rushing out. One of them has my arrow in his hip.

"Don't fix that soon", I chuckle, "and he going to die."

The two of them got into one of the car and quickly drove off. A few minutes later, Thrill Rider came running out and enter the second car. He follow after the two.

"Shame", I thought.

"I almost had him."

Smiling even more now, I look at the silver baton in my hand.

"Still, he did left me a little something. I wonder if I can get a fingerprint from this."

Micheal:

Arriving back at the hotel almost 30 minutes later, I rush through the front door and found Juliet with James on the floor.

"Come on", I said.

"Help me carry him to the basement!"

I grab James's legs while Juliet grab his shoulder. We carry him down the stair toward the basement as fast as we could. As soon as we enter the basement, we "threw" him onto a nearly, dusty table.

I then left Juliet with James and rush to get my first-aid kid.

"Okay Juliet", I said.

"Be ware, if you have a weak stomach, there you might not want to look."

I'm guess Juliet must not have a weak stomach since she stood where she was.

"Okay", I said, now breathing heavier.

"Here go nothing."

First, I broke off part of the arrow. Only about a hand-length of the arrow remain. After breaking it off, I grab it and slowly pull it out.

"AAAARRRGHHHH", James yell.

Ignoring James, I took out a bottle of hydrogen peroxide and pour it into his cut. Again, he scream.

Now that James's cut was clean, I took out from the box a small needle, some stitches, and a roll of bandages. Needing only a few minutes, I sew James's wound together and wrap the bandages around waist. After all of that, Juliet made James take a much-needed nap. With James sleeping, Juliet and I decide to head upstairs. We somehow ended up in the lunch room, sitting in the table closest to the exit.

"Wow", Juliet said, breaking the awkward silence.

"That was scary."

"Scary", I repeated.

"That wasn't scary. That, my friend, was horrifying."

I chuckle for a bit afterward.

Instead of chuckling with me, Juliet just stare at me.

"...So anyway, what happen?

Instead of answering right away, Juliet sigh and shook her head.

"Where to start", she said.

"Well", I reply.

"Maybe you can start by telling me why you become Ace? And why James become the... "White Archer"?"

Juliet stare at me again.

"Bad name, I know. Give me at least two days to think of a better name."

This time chuckling, Juliet started telling me her life story.

"Well", she started, "The story of Ace begun when she was about six. Back then, James and I lived in a small house in Little Rock Arkansas."

"Little Rock, Arkansas", I thought. "Wow, that's far."

"We lived with our parents, who really didn't pay much attention to us. Except when they needed a drinks or a smokes. To be honestly, James and I spend most of our childhood just trying to survive our parents. They didn't provide us with much foods and hardly any cloth."

As Juliet continue with her story, I started noticing a few tears. Thinking fast, I place my hands on her hands.

"Juliet", I said.

"I think I heard enough. You don't have to tell me anymore."

"No! No! No! It's okay."

Wiping a few tears from her eyes, she went on.

"Still, despite all of that, they still sent us to school. We somehow managed to get through the first grade and all the way to the fifth grade. That's when our teacher, Miss Vega started to take notice."

"Why", I ask.

"Because after nearly 12 years of abuse, James finally broke. He started getting angry. He started getting into fights with everyone. He would get into fights with students. With the proctors. Even with the principal. Eventually, he got into a fight with Miss Vega. Arguing over something stupid. Yet it was that stupid argument that turn our whole life around. That's when Miss Vega noticed how dirty James was. She noticed how old and outgrown his shoes were. She even noticed how little school supplies we had. She ask if our parents were having financial troubles. Here what he reply."

She clear her throat for a bit.

"OH YEAH TEACH, THEY'RE HAVING FINANCIAL TROUBLES. APPRANTLY, THEY DON'T HAVE ENOUGH MONEY FOR LIQUIDS OR SMOKES. SO WHAT DO THEY DO. THEY LEAVE ME AND MY SISTER TO DIE!"

Juliet then clear her throat again.

"Those weren't his "exact" words", Juliet state, "but some of words he actually use are probably words you don't want to hear."

"Thanks you", I said.

"Anyways, after that, social security started investigating. It didn't exactly take long before the both of us ended in "the system". We spend nearly five years in an orphanage while our parents went to prisons for child abuse. After the five years in the orphanage, we were finally adapted. By an old man."

"Hmm. Was it better than living with your parents?"

"Yeah", Juliet reply, giggling.

"George, the old man who adapted us, was sweet. I mean, at first, we didn't really know him so we were could of rude to him. Yet he didn't care. No matter how rude, or harsh, or just plain mean we were, he still care about us. He taught me..., now I know this is probably going sound weird, but he actually taught me how to play poker."

"Poker?!"

"Yeah. Beside teaching me how to play poker, he kind of also taught me how to... get an advantage."

Just for the record, I'm going assume that that doesn't mean cheating.

"So is that why you became Ace? Because George taught you poker?

"Kind of. When George first started teaching me, I would somehow always drew in ace. What are the chances, uh?"

"4 out of 52, I think."

"Yeah, well, still. Our time with George with the best. Until the Black Archer killed him."

Juliet:

I watch Michael as he started to stare at me with a blank expression.

"The Black Archer killed George", he said.

"Why?"

"I don't know. It just happen. One day, after nearly two years of living with George, he decided to take us on a camping trip in California. I guess it was sort of like an anniversary things. Anyways, after we finished pitching the tent, we went for a hike through the wood. That when we first met the Black Archer. An arrow came flying out from behind us. The arrow kill George instantly. We were so stun, we didn't even notice the Black Archer walking up to us. James was first to noticed the Archer. He try to attack the Archer, but the Archer counter. He knock James out and walk away. It was after that that we went back into the system. Since we were in California, I guess it was easily for them to find an orphanage here. That how we ended in Joe."

"And that brought us to now, doesn't it?"

"Almost. After begin transfer to Joe, we started training. We spend the last four years of our life training for when we would meet the Black Archer again. Only two years ago did we complete our suits."

There was a few seconds of silence between me and Juliet. Mainly, I was busy trying to understand everything Juliet just told me. About her parents. About George. Especially their first meeting with the Black Archer.

"Wow", I said.

"Just...wow."

"I know. Yet, somehow, James and I survive."

Not knowing what to do next, I stood and offer Juliet a hug. At first, Juliet stare at me like I was crazy, but got up and hug me anyways.

"Thanks for listening", she said.

31: Chapter 30: The Talk

Chapter 31: The Talk

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

Michael:

With James in the basement, Juliet and I decided to spend the night in the hotel. Surprisingly, sleeping in a old, dusty dining room isn't as bad as it sound. Anyways, the night went by quickly.

As the morning approach, I felt the sun's ray burning my tired face. Yet, that wasn't what woke me up. Instead, the sound of someone moaning, groaning, and collapsing woke me up.

"Ahhh... what is that?"

I was about to go see what was making all that noise when I noticing something really, really disturbing. For some reasons, Juliet was SLEEPING ON TOP OF ME. Her head was laying on my chest, and I found my arms wrap around her stomach.

Trying my best not to wake Juliet, I started to slowly pick her up. I grab her two arms and slowly push her off. Failing, Juliet suddenly woke up.

"Arghhh", she said, rubbing her head.

She then notice my arms around her.

"Sorry", I said, trying not to blush.

Shaking herself free, Juliet got up from the dining seat.

"It's okay. It's okay."

Juliet then heard the weird sound.

"What is that?"

"Uh", I reply, shrugging.

Ignoring what happen, we rush toward the basement to check on James. Before even reaching the stairs leading down to the basement, we found James crawling along the wall. I guess he was still in pain, considering he was breathing heavy and was gripping the part of the bandage where his wound is.

"Hey", Juliet said, rushing to his side.

"Easy. Easy. Easy there."

Juliet grab one of James's arm and place it around her head.

"Take it easy, James."

As James started to lend on Juliet, both of them started to fall

I try to help the two, but James quickly place his hand in front of me.

"We got this."

Looking at Juliet, she shook her head. Deciding it was best to follow, I took a few steps back, clearing the way for the two.

I then watch slowly as the Westen slowly (but surely) made their way up the stairs and back into the dining room. Juliet sat James in the table closest to the doorway. She then sat with him while I sat across from them.

Still breathing heavily, James started "talking".

"What happen", he ask in his usual emotionless tone.

Juliet was the first to speak.

"Shortly after the Black Archer stab you, you fainted. I carry you down from Scion Tower into the car and drove you here. Micheal here, who surprisingly knew a lot about first-aid, was about to fix your wounds. We then laid you down in the basement until you recover."

"Which I guess is now", I commented.

Suddenly, I felt a sharp pain in my leg. It was almost like someone kick me. Instead of screaming, I just kept my mouth shut.

Looking at the bandages around his stomach, James press down on his arrow wound.

"What", he said.

"You couldn't have taken me to a hospital? This look like a two-years kid did it."

Again, I deciding to keep my mouth shut.

"So now what? How do we stop the Black Archer?"

"What", Juliet and I ask.

"Again. How do we STOP the Black Archer? After all, he's a dangerous man and we need to stop him."

"Hey! Hey! Hey!", I repeated.

"What about stopping 38? I mean like, you also said he's a dangerous man that we need to stop."

"Screw that idiot,38! We have important things to do! First, we need to find where the Black Archer. Then, we need to-"

"What we need to do is slow down and come up with a plan", Juliet suddenly said.

"Stay out of this", James scream.

"Hey", I shouted, pounding my fists.

"Calm down!"

Out of nowhere, James stood up and punch me right across the face. I fell face first into the wall of the dining room.

"MICHEAL", Juliet yell.

"JAMES!"

Recovering from the hit, I slowly return to my seat, rubbing my cheek.

"If you two don't want to help me, then I would gladly go by myself."

James try to get out of the dining seats, but Juliet stop him.

"Don't do this, Juliet. You may be my sister, but if you get in my way, I will hit you."

"Try it and it be me who hit you!"

"EASY", I shouted.

I rush in between the two and spread out my arms.

"Please calm down."

I look at the two, reading them and making sure they weren't going to hit each others.

"Listen, you two. Before hitting each others, let talk about what to do next-"

Before I could finish my sentence, James once again punch me across the face. I fell down onto Juliet and James slowly walk out of the dining room.

"Ouch", I once again said.

Noticing Juliet under me, I quickly got up and help Juliet to her feet.

"Juliet", I said.

"What?"

"Listen. Now that I know what James is always angry, I'm willing to let the fact that he punch me twice go. But not this! We can't let him go after the Black Archer alone."

"I know! Come on!"

Juliet grab me and started pulling me toward the cars. Literal. Let me said, if I wasn't wearing one of my favorite shirt, I probably weren't be out of breath when we reach the cars.

"Where's James's car", Juliet ask.

"...Take...a...guess."

"Oh no!"

All of a sudden, Juliet started reaching into my pocket. Before I could said anything, she pull out my car key.

"Yes!"

She grab me again and "toss" me into the back of my car. She then started my car and drove off.

"Where do you think he is?!"

"You...want...my...advice? Try... Scion... Tower..."

"Of course!", Juliet scream.

She stomp on the gas, heading directly to Scion Tower. In the process, my face smash into the back of my seat before falling down to the car's bottom.

"You okay", Juliet ask.

"Three fourth", I reply, trying to show her a thumb-up.

To be completely honest, I can't really be sure what happen next. I think Juliet's driving may have actually knock me out, considering when I woke up, I felt a small bump on the front of my head.

"MICHEAL", Juliet scream, "WE'RE HERE!"

She grab me by the neck and drag me out of the car. My bottom half fell hard onto the sidewalk.

"OUCH", I scream, rubbing my butt.

Juliet:

I couldn't pay attention to Micheal now. James needed me. I started running to Scion Tower, but stop shortly after. The entrance to Scion Tower was block by cops.

About five car cops were surrounding the entrance to the tower, with a dozen cops in the building alone.

"What's going on here", I said.

"Why are all these cops here?"

"Cops", Micheal repeated. He then quickly got up and look at all the cops.

"Micheal, what are they doing here?"

"I don't know", Micheal reply, "Most likely, they're here to investigating what happen last night. We weren't exactly quiet during the fight."

I look angrily at Micheal.

"I'll shut up now", Micheal said.

Annoying Micheal and looking back at the cops, I started to plan.

"How do we get past them", I thought.

"How did James get past them?"

Searching my pocket, I took out some of my throwing aces. Luckily for me, I always carry of few of them with me.

I started walking toward some of the cars when Micheal stop me.

"I distract them, you sneak through. Okay?"

He hurry away before I could said anything. I knew that Micheal and his dad had issues. It was like watching a mouse walk into a lion pit.

Micheal:

I walk right up to the police tape and went under it. Annoying everyone and everything else, I went right up to my dad.

He was busy talking to another cops.

"Hey pop", I said.

There were a few moments of silence between us. My dad just stood there, staring into the blank space.

After a few more moments of silence, he finally spoke.

"Hello Micheal", he said.

He then slowly turn around.

My dad and I then stare at each other. Even the cops and detectives around us stop what they were doing to stare at us.

"It been awhile since we last talked", I started.

"Yeah", my dad reply, "Haven't talked since that time that you went to the police stations."

"Yup", I said.

My dad then cross his arm. I started to lift one finger one by one and gently place them back down.

"Have you been to the hospital to see your sister yet?"

Taking a deep breath, I reply "No".

"Well maybe you think about visiting her soon. After all, she is family."

"I know, pop."

Watching from the corner of my eyes, I saw Juliet quickly but quietly sneak into Scion Tower. I stay where I was. Sadly, this conversation was way overdue.

Juliet:

I felt bad for leaving Micheal alone with his dad, but I had to find my brother. After all, he needed me.

Most of the cops were outside so I didn't have must trouble on the inside.

"James", I whisper.

"James. James. Where are you? We're here to help."

I didn't see James anywhere. Checking off the lobby, I decide to rush up to where the three of us fought the Black Archer. Maybe he was there. I quietly crawl to the stair and started my journey up to the 25th floors.

Micheal:

Letting the other get to work, dad and I went over to a corner and started talking.

"What happen Micheal", my dad said. He sounded disappointed in me. Frankly, I don't blame he a bit.

"Like I said before, I wanted to try and stop the gunman. That's why I stop the car. That's why-"

"That's not what I mean", my dad said, stopping me.

"I mean what happen to you."

I almost automatically stop talking. What did he mean by "what happen to me"?

"You used to care about your family and friends. What happen to that?"

I was about to say something about that but my dad stop me.

"You haven't been to the hospital to see Alex, and I haven't seen Brain or Ashley around the house later. They use to come by the house every Saturday morning and play some games with you. Now, I rarely see them. What happen?"

I was at a totally lost for words. I mean like, what was I suppose to said.

"Hey dad, guess what. The reason I haven't been to the hospital to see my sister is because I was busy taking care of some guy who really hate me. Oh, and as for my friends, I was busy putting on a mask and fighting crime."

Instead of saying anything, I just hung my head in shame.

My dad let out a huge sigh. He then shake his head and cover his eyes with his hand.

"Alex is at Promise Hospital."

He started returning to the crime scene without looking at me.

"That's on the east side of Los Angeles. Her room number is 208. Bye Micheal."

"Bye pop. See ya."

32: Chapter 31: To the Hospital

Chapter 32: To the Hospital

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review. Also Happy New Years! Best of Luck in 2017 -M. Peterson

James:

Here I was, at Scion Tower, on the 25th floor.

I toss aside some unless papers, looking for some sign of where I could find the Black Archer. He come here for a reason, and I want to know why.

Walking to the desk of some random employees, I pull out one of the drawer. All that was inside was a bunch of stupid toys.

"Arrrgghhh."

I pull out the entire drawers and toss it against the wall.

"JUNK! JUNK! JUNK! USELESS JUNK!"

I kick the desk over. The computer, files, and other junks on top of the desk fell over. Stomping over some of the stuffs, I walk to another desk.

I quickly open the drawers, only to find boxes of half-eaten cookies.

"What the-?!"

Once again, I grab the boxes and toss them aside.

"Hey, watch it", a girl yell.

Out of instance, I grab a close-by pen and got into a fighting stance.

"Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!", Juliet repeated, hand in the air.

"Easy James. It's me."

Juliet was standing next to the stairs of the building.

"Swell", I thought.

"Just who I needed."

I drop the pen and resume my search.

Juliet:

I watch as my brother toss around everything in the room. Computers. Files. Basically anything but the desks. He would kick those.

After watching him kick down a few more desks, I angrily walk over to him. I then grab his shoulder and slap him hard across the face.

"STOP!", I scream.

"STOP PLEASE!... Please."

I started to feel tears slowly falling along my face. I wipe a few of them away.

"James, stop please. You're sick. You are sick. You're tossing office supplies. You're kicking desks. This isn't you. You are sick. You're... You're sick."

Pausing a little to check James's temperature, I place my hand on his forehead. It was hot. Looking more closely at James, I notice his burning red face, covered in sweat. I then remember his wound.

"Sorry about this, James", I said before lifting his shirt.

"What are you doing?!", James said, trying to stop me.

Putting up his shirt and looking around, I found his arrow wound. It was bleeding. The bandage and wrapping Micheal use was almost completely red.

"James", I said scare, "You're bleeding."

Pushing me aside and putting down his shirt, James wipe the sweats from his face.

"I don't care", he reply.

"I don't care. I do not care. I don't care if I'm bleeding. I'm don't care if I have to fight my way through you. I don't care IF I HAVE TO TRAVEL TO THE END OF THE WORLD, I WILL FIND HIM AND KILL HIM!"

I didn't know what to do next. James was determine to find something in here that might lead him to the Black Archer. Yet, if he didn't get some help soon, I was afraid he might die of blood loss. I didn't want to hit him, but I had to think of something. Looking around, I rush to another desk and started looking.

"What are you doing", James ask.

"Helping you", I reply, "You need to see either a doctor or Micheal, but you won't leave unless you find something useful. SO either you accept my help or die here."

James didn't thank me for my help, but I didn't really care. James is my brother, and he needed help.

After searching a few more desks and founding nothing, my earpieces started ringing.

"Juliet", I heard.

"Micheal", I said, "Is that you?"

"Yeah", he reply.

"Listen, my dad and a few other cops are coming to your floor. Did you found James?"

"Yeah, I did. But can you try and stall him."

"Sorry Juliet. I can't."

Out of nowhere, Micheal told me even more bad new.

"Juliet, I'm sorry. I... I have to go."

"What?!"

"Juliet, I am so sorry I have to do this, but I have to go."

"Why?! Where do you need to go?!"

"I'm overdue for a visit to my sister. She's at Promise Hospital and it is high time I go see her."

"Wait! Wait! Wait! Micheal! You're going to a hospital!?"

"Yeah. Why?"

"Micheal, listen! James is bleeding badly. He NEED to see a doctor. An actually doctor! Micheal, can you pick us up?"

"On it", Micheal reply.

"Thanks you."

I look back at James. He was looking through some papers. He was still red and sweating. Only this time, he looked pale and he was having trouble standing.

"Come on. Come on", I thought, looking through more papers.

"Please let there be something. Please let there be something."

It was no use. There was absolute nothing in here about the Black Archer. The only things here were a bunch of papers, telling us all about Scion Tower's shipments. We're were about to look through another desks when we heard the elevator ring.

"Get down!", I shouted, tackling James down onto the ground and behind a desk. Afterward, I cover his mouth so he couldn't scream back.

"sssshhhhh. There are cops here."

Letting go of James, the two of us peek over the desk. About a group of five cops, including Mr. Peterson, were swarming in here.

"Okay", Mr. Peterson said.

"This is where the fight between Thrill Rider, a Black Archer, and two other masked assailants happen. In the process of the fight, one of the assailants capture about a dozen of the employees and force them into an elevator."

"So that explain all the papers scatter around the lobby", said a voice from behind.

Out of instance, the two of us quickly turn around and tackle the person behind us.

"Easy", Micheal said, "It's me."

"Micheal", I whisper, "What are you doing here?"

"I'm here to get the two of you out of here and to Promise Hospital. Come on."

"...Micheal", I started, "How...how did you get up here?"

"Turn out there was a window wishing cart on the side of the building that we miss. I took it and got up as fast as I could here."

Micheal then pointed to an office nearby.

"That's Mr. Lincoln Scion's office. The cart lead there. Come on!"

"No!", James quietly scream.

"I haven't found anything yet. I won't leave until I found something."

"Don't worry", Micheal reply.

He pull out some files from the back of his pant.

"I found these in a drawers in Mr. Scion's desk. There're about some shipments that disappearing. I think they may have been meant for the Black Archer.

"Let me see!"

James try to take the files but Micheal stop him.

"You can see them once we get to Promise Hospital. We don't have time to look through them. You're bleeding badly and there are cops here. Come on!"

Seeing no other choices, James reluctantly arrive. The three of us left the building on the cart and flee to the hospital.

"Don't worry Juliet", Micheal said, "Everything is going to be alright."

33: Chapter 32: The Final Fight

Chapter 33: The Final Fight

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

Micheal:

As the three of us arrive at Promise Hospital in James's car, we quickly carry him to the front desk.

From the outside, Promise Hospital appear to be a simple tall and long building with many floors. From the inside, it was a lot more complex. The tiled, white hall of the hospital were full of nurses and patients of all ages and sizes. Standing in the hall near his bedroom was an elderly man, walking around with a cane. Near a pair of doors we pass, we saw a young girl in hospital robe, sitting next to her mother I think. Nurses in light, green uniforms were constantly running around, from rooms to rooms, patients to patients.

"Hello!", Juliet shouted at the front desk, her voice echoing through the halls.

"Yes", reply the nurse at the front desk, "How can we help you?"

"My brother! He's bleeding! BADLY!"

We lifted James's shirt to show her the wound. It was even worst than before. Now the bandage was completely red, with blood quickly oozing from it. James couldn't even stand by himself.

The nurse practically jump from her seat once she saw the wound. She ran from her seat to examine James's wound more closely.

"What happen?!", she scream.

I could easily tell Juliet hasn't think this through. After all, we couldn't tell her James was stabbed by the Black Archer. That would bring a lot of "unanswerable questions". There a reason why we vigilantes can't go the hospital for help.

"He was in a car accident", I said, turning to Juliet.

"Yeah!", commented Juliet, "We were on our way to a friend's and out of nowhere, a car crash into us!"

Believing us I think, the nurse ran back to her seat and press a button on the desk.

"Code Red! Code Red!", she said, "Patient is bleeding. Showing sign of pale skin and is fatigue!"

Not too soon after, a group of nurse came up to us with a stretcher. They took James away and into a different section of the hospital.

"Wait here", declare one of the nurse.

Not exactly knowing what to do next, Juliet and I went to sit down in two empty seats. They were near another pair of doors.

"Juliet", I started, turning to face her, "I hope you don't mind, but I going go see if I can find Alex, okay?"

"Okay", Juliet reply, a few tears in her eyes.

Not wanting to leave her, I regretfully left Juliet to seen out room 208.

As I wonder around the maze of rushing nurses and doctors, I started getting this weird feeling. It felt like as if something bad was going happen.

"Like as if I didn't get that feeling enough", I thought to myself.

Juliet was crying, James was bleeding, and I was going to go see my little sister. The sister I put in the hospital. By now, the "bad feeling" was an everyday thing.

I had just gotten off an elevator and was on my way to visit Alex when, out of nowhere, alarms started ringing.

"What going on?!", I shouted.

As soon as the alarms started ringing, everyone stop what they were doing. They all then started fleeing the hospital. Nurse and doctors started helping their patients by leading them to the stairs and out of the hospital.

During all of this, the sprinkles also started going off. Water pour from them, wetting everything and everyone in their path. Somehow, the water was gathering on the floor. Within only a few minutes, there was flooding.

Confuse and lost, I started thinking of what to do next, though I didn't have to think much. There, walking among the doctor and nurses and patients, like as if he didn't have a care in the world, was the Black Archer.

"Hello... Thrill Rider", he said.

34: Chapter 33: What We Care Most About

Chapter 34: What We Care Most About

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

Micheal:

I felt a sudden chill rush down my back. Somehow, the Black Archer knew who I was. And now, here he was; Bow ready in hand. Quiver loaded with arrows. Empty hallways with nothing to help me.

There was no one in the hallways so I didn't have to worry about anyone hearing my secrets nor the Archer using them as target practice.

Scare, I didn't know what to do. I was completely expose. I'd left my suit and batons in the car, and even if I had them, I doubt I be able to do much with them. I can't take him one on one. And even in some miracle I did beat him, what to stop him from telling everyone who I was. Everyway I look, I was trap.

"Who would have though", the Archer started.

"The mysterious vigilante himself, Thrill Rider, is nothing but a young kid. Still in high school."

He then laugh.

"And to think, the Raven himself place a bounty on you for 10 million dollars. You! A kid!"

"The Raven", I thought.

"I heard that name before but where? And what this about a bounty? 10 million dollars?"

"Way", the Archer said, still laughing.

"This is what I call easy money."

Taking only a second, the Archer quickly pull out an arrow from his quiver and place it in his bow. He shot it off a second.

I barely had time to duck. I leapt from my right side and duck into one of the room. Falling into the small flood, I slam the door with my foot.

"Like that going to help you", shouted the Archer.

I could actually hear him preparing another arrow. Readying myself, I grab a close-by pink vase. Once the door exploded, I toss it at the Archer. Almost expecting it, the Archer counter and broke the vase. Still, it left me a small opening.

Using the bed as a launching pad, I leap from it and tackle him. My attack work! Tackling him down into the ground, we roll around until I was on top of him.

I then started beating on him. One punch. Two punches. Three punches. I was going for my fourth punch when he grab my shirt and pull it toward himself. Once close enough, he punch me hard in the face.

I stumble off of him, and with that, he kick the back of my legs and I fell back into the water.

Wiping the water from my face, I had time to see the Archer kick me in the stomach. I fell back down in pain, gripping my stomach.

I didn't have time to fight back. Already, the Archer was picking me up. He grab my head and smash it into a wall.

"How you ever survive this long as Thrill Rider, I never understand", he said.

"I was expecting a challenge. An actually challenge. I filled my quiver with exploding arrow, thinking I would actually need them."

I was struggling to escape the Archer's hold, yet it was no use. He had my head pin against the wall, with my arms twisted behind my back and my legs knee. I was at his mercy.

"You want to know how I find you?", the Archer, smashing my head back into the head.

"Last time we fought, you threw one of your baton at me. Calling in a few favors, I ran it for fingerprints. Found your at one of the end. PATHEIC!

He then smash my head into the head. I started feeling dizzy. I started losing feelings in both my arms and legs. All the smashing had left a cut in my head. Blood was flooding out. Waters and blood was started to get into my eyes.

"Once I'm done with you, I'm going after your family. The Raven is offering an extra million for everyone I kill. By the time I done, I be able to buy my own island."

I felt a sudden urge of angry in me. Going after me is one thing, but going after my family is another. My family is important to me. Friends and family. They're what I care about most. You can break my arms and legs. You can tell the wide world who I am. You can even take my favorite yugioh cards, Obnoxious Celtic Guard, and rip it into pieces. But no one, and I mean no one, threaten to harm my family."

"In fact", the Archer continue, "I hear your sister is in this hospital. And all because of you."

Focusing on my family and Alex, I started twisting my ways out of the Archer's grip.

"AAAARRRRRRGGGGGHHHHH!"

Using my new found rush of adrenaline, I twist out of the Archer's grip, breaking one of my arms in the process. Once free, I use my other arms to elbow him in the stomach. The Archer wobble back. Getting up as fast as I could, I charge toward the Archer. Seeing what I was doing, he quickly prepare an arrow. As he place the arrow in his bow and ready it, I jump at him. My back hit him and the both of us fell into the water. My attack knock the bow from the Archer's hand.

Picking him up with my one strong arm, I knee him in the stomach and toss him into the wall.

"NO ONE TALK ABOUT MY FAMILY LIKE THAT!", I scream, my voice echoing through the water filled hallways.

Getting up from my attack, I ran toward him knee him against the wall. The impact was so much, a hole appear in the hospital wall. Now with him against the all, I started punching.

"NO ONE TALK ABOUT MY FAMILY LIKE THAT! NO ONE!"

I kept on repeating those words until my fist started turning bloody red. Even after, I kept of punching him.

I guessing, because he saw no other way out, the Black Archer had to use one of his exploding arrow. He took one out from his quiver and set it up so it would explode. The shockwave sent me flying back into floor.

"No one talk about my family like that! No one!"

I kept on repeating those words to me, hoping that it would fuel me, yet it didn't. I was too tired. Every parts of me was burning hot, despite begin in cold water. I try to get up but fell down almost instantly. Water splash onto my face and into my eyes. Breathing heavily, I look around to see where the Archer was.

I found him, unconscious I think, by the damage wall. Seeing an opportunity, I use what even strength I had left to get up. When I did, I went looking for Alex's room. I had to see if she was okay. I could never forget myself if she wasn't.

Slowly wandering down the flooded hallways, I check the room numbers of all the rooms I pass.

"No", I repeated. "No. No. No."

I finally find Room 208. It was located near the end of the hallways, by the fire escape. Slowly and painfully, I walk in.

"Alex", I weakly said.

Seeing the bed, I walk to it before falling onto it.

"Alex", I started.

"I am so sorry for what I did. I cause your accident. I put you in the hospital. And I never came to visit you. I am so, so sorry."

Taking a break to catch my breath, I continue.

"I was... I was just ashamed. Ashamed of what I did. I know you're not the forgiving type, and I not asking you to forgive me. Honestly, I not sure if I were even forgive myself, but I am asking you to understand me."

I then started hearing footsteps in the puddle. They were getting closer and closer.

"Anyway kid, I just wanted to wish you the best of luck. For you. And dad. And mom. And Henry. And Brain and Ash... And especially for Juliet and James. Best of luck to you all."

Getting off the bed, I watch as the Black Archer walk into the room.

"Bye-bye Thrill Rider", he said.

Rushing to me, he kick me down and force my head underwater. Already, I felt my lungs readying to burst. I struggle to get out but the Black Archer's grip was too strong. Before I knew it, I fainted.

35: Chapter 34: The End

Chapter 35: The End

A/N Enjoy and Please Leave a Review

Micheal:

As I started to slowly gain conscious and my eyes started to open, I was blinded by the bright lights.

I was about to close my eyes when all of a sudden, three black... "things" block the blinding lights. The "things" also started talking.

"Micheal", one of them said slowly.

"Are you okay? Can you understand me?"

"Brain", shouted one of the other things.

"Stop talking like that. Micheal is going to be okay. He be through worst."

"What worst than this", ask the last thing.

"For he personally, dying on Minecraft with an inventory full of diamond equipment. Believe me, compare to this, that was a real near-death experiences."

"Hey! Hey! Hey!", scream Brain, "He waking up."

Slowly regaining the feeling in one of my arms, I painfully lifted myself. Now with my eyes open, I could see I was in the company of friends. By me were Brian, Ash, and Juliet.

"Easy there", Juliet said, placing her hands around me.

"Easy there. You been through a lot last week."

"Last week", I repeated, "What do you mean by "last week"?"

"Last week", copy Ash.

"You don't remember."

"Remember what?"

"Remember your fight with the Black Archer."

"My fight?"

The same chill I felt when I heard the Black Archer called me Thrill Rider was once back.

"Yeah", Ash continue.

"How you help Thrill Rider take out that Black Archer? Serious, you don't remember that?"

That I was totally confuse, especially with the "helping Thrill Rider" part.

Before I could talk, Juliet interrupted.

"Yeah Micheal", Juliet started.

"You "helped" Thrill Rider defeated the Black Archer last week. In order to protect Alex, you fought beside Thrill Rider, against him. When your dad arrive with help, he found you and the Black Archer unconscious in Alex's room."

"Alex", I scream, remembering her.

Again, Juliet calm me down.

"Don't worry Micheal, Alex is fine. In fact, here she is now."

Rushing into my hospital room were Alex, Henry, and my parents.

"Micheal", they all shouted.

Alex, who was the first in, came up and punch me in the chest.

"Owww", I scream.

"HAHAHAHAHA", she laugh.

"That for not visiting me."

"Okay", I said weakly, "I guess I deserved that."

"You also deserved this", said my mother.

Almost out of nowhere, she put out a wrapped sandwich.

"It's a roast beef sandwich. Leftover from last night. You miss the last few dinners."

"Thanks mom."

Taking off the plastic wrap, I took a big bite of the sandwich.

"Your welcome honey. We know hospital foods aren't the best."

After finishing my sandwich, my family and I started talking. About how I risk my life to save Alex. About how I fought beside Thrill Rider, despite hating him (that more dad than me). Even about how they heard about my hearth-felt apology.

"How did you hear about that", I ask.

"Juliet told us", answer my mother.

I then look as Juliet. Instead of saying something, she just wink at me.

Afterward, I spend some time playing Resistance: Fall of Man with Brain and Ash. Turn out you can actually play the game if you play the controllers, game consoles, and game itself. We spend our time trying to kill a stalker, only to have Brain give up a few minutes later.

What time I had left for visiting hour were spend alone with Juliet. I saw Brain and Ash leave with smiles.

"Note to self", I thought, "Tell them there is nothing between her and I."

Once the door was close and we were sure we were alone, we started talking. Juliet sat next to me, on the bed in fact.

"So", I started.

"So what", reply Juliet.

"So how did I fought along side Thrill Rider, oh brilliant one?"

"Well, I was still inside when the sprinkle and alarms went off. I was helping some of the patients out when I heard an exploded. I rush up to see what was going on. Using the stair, I bump into Alex. I guessing she was ready to go since she had on street clothes. After "telling" her to go to the front of the hospital, I ran to her room to see you."

"Oh, you wanted to see me, huh?"

"Oh shut up. Anyway, that where I find you and the Black Archer. He was holding your head underwater. He didn't see me so I take a chance and knock him out. Now he's at a maximum security prison."

"But, Juliet, he know my secret. He know that I'm you-know-who."

"Don't worry, I thought of that. After all, he wouldn't have fought you unless he knew who you were."

"Serious? How did you do that?"

"Well actually, it more like the three of us together took him out."

"Three?"

"You, me, and the Black Archer. Turn out, the exploding arrow he used to escape you combined with my attack to his head actually cause a bit of short-term memory lost. He can't remember who Thrill Rider is."

I felt a sudden joy of relief.

"YES!", I shouted, lifting by my arms, but only for a few seconds.

"Ouch! Ouch! Ouch"

I look at my arms and discover one of my arm in a cast.

"Hm. Look like Thrill Rider is going to be out of commission for awhile."

"A few weeks at most", commented Juliet.

"Hey", I also scream, realizing something.

"What happen to James? How is he?"

"He's okay. Course', when he heard of the arrested Black Archer, he sort of flip out.

"Go figure."

"Yeah, but I wouldn't worry. Actually, I could of glad he didn't get to fight. After all, all that stress can't be well for him."

Out of nowhere, Juliet hug me.

"Thanks Micheal. For saving my brother."

Sudden at a lost for word, I just sat there.

A few minutes later, Juliet got up and walk out of my room.

"See ya soon."

Now this I knew what to do.

"See ya soon. And best of luck in protecting Los Angeles."

After watching Juliet walking out, I rest my head.

"Well", I thought, eyes close.

"This is certainly one for the history book."

Before falling asleep, I let out a small chuckle.

Top of Scion Tower:

"Mr. Scion, sir", said a voice on the phone.

"Yes", reply a tall, man with pale skin and white hair.

He wore a completely black suit, with a simple blue tie.

"Our sources have confirmed that the Black Archer, Antony Vance, is in custom."

"Hmm", Scion murmur.

"Does he know who Thrill Rider is?"

"According to medical records, he substance injuries to the head. The doctors believe it may have cause short-term memory loss. No sir, he does not know who Thrill Rider is."

"Shame", Mr. Scion simply said.

"That is a real shame."

"What do you suggest we should do, sir?"

"Nothing, for now. Leave him in prison for a bit."

"As you wish, sir."

The man then hung up.

Getting up from his seat, Mr. Lincoln Scion walk to the edge of his window.

"Well, Thrill Rider. It seen like you survive the Black Archer, one of the best bounty hunter in the world. Hmm, no matter. I never really like him."

Walking back to his desk, he open one of his drawer and pull out a file. Opening it, he grab a photo of a hooded man.

"Well Vengeance, let see if you're really for a rematch with your own pal, Thrill Rider."

The End

A/N Please Leave a Review for my first finish book. If you're lucky, I may start Book 2 of Thrill Rider.