ã€ŠThe Rogue Fiveã€‹


 Prologue

    Well, this place was huge. She was standing outside a lavish manor, not too far from Dilstone City. The woman in question was still young, only eighteen at the time. She had pale skin, long blonde hair, and blue eyes. She wore her usual work attire: a dark brown office dress under a black leather trench coat. Her name was Anna Zimbardi, but her work identity was the Huntress.

    Anna rang the doorbell, and while waiting for someone to answer, she took a look at the outside of the manor. It truly felt like the dream of every person in this city. It was a massive, sprawling estate. Intricate brickwork, large windows, four strong columns to support the weight of the second story, and a door that seemed large enough to host extravagant parties. It was as if the place were screaming "Come on in. There''s plenty of room!" However, her attention was drawn to a small splotch of red. Only a drop or two, on the steps. Blood.

    "Hmm... How interesting..."

    The door then opened, revealing a butler in a rather fancy suit. Anna''s attention was drawn away from the blood when he greeted her.

    "Ah, good evening, miss. Can I presume you are the ''Huntress'' we have been waiting for?"

    Anna nodded her head in agreement. She could already tell that the butler didn''t take her seriously, but that wasn''t her problem. He wasn''t her client.

    "Yes, I am. Is your master home?"

    The butler sighed.

    "Yes, I suppose so. I will warn you, miss. He is a bit... irritable, right now."

    Oh great. Surely, that wouldn''t be problematic at all. Either way, she had a job to do, and she was going to do it. With a deep breath, Anna nodded once more.

    "That''s fine. I''ve dealt with irritable clients before. I''m sure your master is no different. Shall I go see him?"

    The butler quickly gave a slight bow and led Anna through the manor. She could already see a blood trail on the marble floors. She wasn''t quite sure what she was getting into here, but whatever it was, it seemed juicy. For the most part, the trail of blood was just small splotches, and it continued most of the way through the manor. Eventually, the trail stopped and looked like it originated from the office. The butler, however, led Anna to a bathroom, where the manor''s owner was waiting. Richard Wood was your typical rich man, always well dressed and proper, except for the fact that there was now a big gash on the side of his face, which he was trying to clean up. He looked up at Anna, a grimace forming on his face.

    "You must be this ''Huntress'' character I''ve heard so much about. I would assume you''re here to learn who your target is, yes?"

    Anna had seen plenty of blood in her line of work, as well as injuries like this, but it still caught her somewhat by surprise. Usually, rich people were a lot safer when it came to this type of thing. Not wanting to annoy her employer, Anna answered him.

    Stolen novel; please report.

    "I am. I hear you want me to track someone for you?"

    Mr. Wood chuckled darkly and shook his head as if Anna had asked something ridiculous.

    "If I didn''t need you to track something, you wouldn''t be here. I don''t exactly hire bounty hunters for fun. Now then, I''ll need you to find my daughter and bring her back home immediately. Some beast took her and did this to my face."

    From the tone of his voice, Anna could tell he was pissed. But there were more important things for her to worry about. There was a kid involved, and it was starting to sound like Anna would have to kill whatever ''beast'' took this man''s daughter. Then again, such was life as a bounty hunter. She knew to never question her clients past what she needed.

    "Can you tell me what your daughter looks like?"

    Richard sighed, as if he were dreading this inevitable question.

    "She looks nothing like me or the wife. White hair, purple eyes. She sticks out like a sore thumb. You can''t miss her."

    Assuming that Richard was telling the truth, Anna could certainly agree with that. Those were quite interesting traits, especially considering that the girl''s father seemed pretty average in appearance, brown hair and eyes. She could only assume that Richard''s wife was in the same boat.

    "Right... and the last time you saw her was when this ''creature'' attacked you?"

    Richard responded with a simple nod before he went back to trying to clean his wound.

    "Yes, that is correct. I have not seen her since. Oh, and her name is Katherine. Go find her, ''Huntress''."

    Richard waved her away and just continued to try and clean his face. As annoyed by his dismissiveness as she was, Anna couldn''t really blame him for being an ass. The guy''s daughter was missing, and that gash looked like it was going to be permanent. Without another word, Anna turned and left, following the blood trail right out the front door of the manor. She was going to find this kid. One way or another, she would.

    As Anna followed the blood trail into the city, she noticed the rain clouds beginning to form on the horizon. She would have to hurry if she wanted to find Katherine before the storm hit. As luck would have it, the beast seemed to have made some pretty solid ground. And soon enough, the storm was upon her. Heavy rain, howling winds, and the occasional flash of lightning dominated the sky. The bustling city became a ghost town as the only light left was from the dim streetlights. Anna would have to rely on her innate tracking abilities to find Katherine. Because she was not going to risk letting a beast have her any longer than necessary.

    With the rain pounding this hard, it was nigh impossible to see more than ten feet in front of her. However, she didn''t really need to. It was like she just knew where to go. Even with the rain wiping the blood clean and removing any evidence of the horrible events that had taken place, it was as though she could still see the imprints of the blood trail, follow footsteps that were never there to begin with, and hear the rapid breathing of someone running or struggling.

    As the lightning continued to flash around her and the wind howled in her ears, Anna followed the non-existent trail, trusting in her abilities to see her through the mission. Dilstone''s normally bustling sidewalks were completely empty. A few streetside restaurants offered shelter from the storm, food, and warmth. However, Anna could not partake in their temptation. She knew that whatever had taken this little girl wouldn''t be stopping to rest in any of these buildings, so neither could she.

    Turning down an alleyway, she could almost feel the tension building in the air. It was only a matter of time until she found this thing and would most likely have to kill it. She was close now. She could sense it.

    Soon, Anna came upon a dumpster. It was under a small overhanging tarp, and she could see a bit of blood on the side of it that hadn''t been washed away by the rain yet. She could also hear sniffling coming from within the dumpster. This was it. Huntress drew her crossbow, ready to fight whatever this beast might be if it meant saving Katherine. With a deep breath, she threw open the dumpster lid and pointed her crossbow inside.

 Morning

    ¡°Ugh¡­ that dream again?¡±

    Swipe rolled out of bed with a stretch and a yawn, her fluffy tail flicking behind her. Swipe was a young woman, around eighteen years old, with long white hair and deep purple eyes. Most notable among her features were the two fluffy triangular cat ears on her head, and the slim, yet somewhat poofy tail behind her. She had always had them, and planned to keep it that way. Going through her usual morning routine, Swipe showered, brushed her teeth, and got dressed. It was a pretty typical outfit for her, an open black leather jacket over a purple tee shirt and a pair of skinny jeans. Ready to roll for the day, Swipe ventured past her room.

    The living room was pretty standard, although a bit larger than normal. A group of two couches and a recliner all faced a coffee table and a wall mounted television, which was currently on the news, showing a press conference from the newly elected sheriff, Richard Wood, explaining that after his daughter¡¯s disappearance, he was determined to make sure that no family ever suffered the same pain as him. Huntress, now in her early thirties, was sitting on the couch going over some finances and the day¡¯s plans. Beside her, with one arm wrapped around the very dangerous woman, was her husband, Kraken. Kraken was a tall, bald, dark skinned man with a short black beard and blue eyes. For most people, seeing the two leaders of the Rogue Five in their living room would be terrifying. But for Swipe, this was life as usual. The only thing that scared her at this point would be Blaze in the kitchen.

    Deciding to get some breakfast, Swipe headed to the kitchen, and to her horror, found Blaze there. Blaze was a massive man, his skin an ashy gray thanks to his fire powers. He had bright amber eyes, which almost seemed to flicker with an undying flame. Kind of like the flame that was almost always burning on his head. Wearing a thin red jacket with a thick collar over his plain gray shirt and cargo shorts, he looked the part of the group¡¯s tough guy. He was watching his bacon cook to ¡°perfection¡± with a smirk on his face. Seeing this, Swipe walked over and shoved him out of the way, taking the bacon off the burner.

    ¡°You¡¯re burning it, ya fuckin¡¯ dunce!¡±

    ¡°You know it¡¯s better that way!¡±

    Blaze butted back in, putting his bacon back onto the burner. The two stopped bickering when they heard Huntress¡¯s voice coming from the living room.

    ¡°Kids, would you cut it out already? Swipe, you know he¡¯s an idiot. Just let him have his bacon ashes.¡±

    ¡°THANK you- wait.¡±

    Swipe couldn¡¯t help but bust out laughing as Blaze realized he was, in fact, an idiot. As Swipe and Blaze continued their bickering, Zap walked in. He was the metaphorical middle child of the Rogue Five, being a very recent addition to the team, only joining about a month before Swipe. Swipe, however, had the advantage of already living with Huntress. Zap was only a couple of years older than Swipe, with scruffy brown hair and heterochromatic eyes. One was brown, while the other was gray. Slinking around Swipe and Blaze in his custom made steel armor, Zap shuffled over to the pantry to get some cereal. Spotting him, Swipe smirked and snuck up behind him, grabbing him from behind a little roughly, although she wasn¡¯t trying to actually hurt him.

    ¡°Mornin¡¯ rookie!¡±

    Zap nearly jumped out of his skin, turning back to look at Swipe and Blaze while they laughed at him. Before he could even respond, Huntress did it for him.

    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    ¡°Swipe, Blaze, could you let the guy go five minutes without trying to give him a heart attack? I¡¯d prefer to keep our healer alive and not mad at us, thanks.¡±

    Following breakfast, Swipe, Blaze, and Zap all returned to the living room. Blaze and Zap sat on the opposite couch from Huntress and Kraken, while Swipe sat next to Huntress and flopped into her lap. Huntress rolled her eyes, but didn¡¯t hesitate to start scratching behind Swipe¡¯s ears, knowing she loved that. This, of course, caused a big goofy grin to spread across Swipe¡¯s face as a giggle escaped her.

    ¡°Heh. What¡¯s the plans for today, mama?¡±

    Taking the remote from the coffee table, Huntress turned off the news to instead display her planned target. Dilstone Trust, the biggest bank in the city.

    ¡°We¡¯ll be striking at Dilstone Trust. This place is no joke. We¡¯ll need to be on our A-game at all times. Security cameras all over the building, outside and in, armed security guards at every junction, and a vault that alerts every hero in the city if it¡¯s opened without clearance. We have our work cut out for us today.¡±

    Raising an eyebrow at the notion of robbing Dilstone Trust, Kraken leaned forward and rested his chin in his palm.

    ¡°If I may ask, love, why strike there? If it¡¯s such a difficult job, why not just play it safe and pull one of our usual heists at a smaller bank?¡±

    There were murmurs of agreement from Blaze and Zap, with even Swipe questioning why in the world they would pull such a risky heist. Understanding the concern, Huntress explained.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been going over our finances. We¡¯re remarkably close to what we need in order to leave this life behind. If we strike at Dilstone Trust, we¡¯ll have exactly what we need in order to disappear into the night. Live comfortably for the rest of our lives without having to budget for food and bills. No more heists. We¡¯ll finally be free.¡±

    That certainly got their attention. Huntress had a point. If they went for the smaller banks like they normally did, it would take at least a few more jobs. But if they could pull off the Dilstone Trust heist, everything would be over. Huntress gave everyone a moment to think about it before leaning back in her seat.

    ¡°Well? What do you say? Are you with me?¡±

    Kraken was the first to speak up, nodding his head in the affirmative.

    ¡°I¡¯ll follow you anywhere, love.¡±

    ¡°Simp.¡±

    Swipe chuckled at her own joke, her tail flicking before she sat up.

    ¡°I¡¯m with ya, mama.¡±

    Blaze rolled his eyes.

    ¡°Suckup. Me and the rookie are in too, boss.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s settled then. We rob Dilstone Trust today and drop off the radar tomorrow.¡±

    Pulling up the schematics of the bank, Huntress pinpointed every security camera and guard checkpoint, as well as the rotations of the guards and how long that would take. The plan was starting to come together. It just needed a few finishing touches to make it solid.

    ¡°Here¡¯s the plan. I¡¯ll take care of the cameras as we go. Me, Kraken, Blaze, and Zap are going in the front. Swipe, your job is to get into the wiring and disconnect that alarm. Blaze and Zap will take care of the guards without burning any of them.¡±

    Huntress shot a quick glare at Blaze while he just chuckled.

    ¡°He was fine, just don¡¯t have no hair anymore. He looks better bald anyways.¡±

    Huntress rolled her eyes and continued her plan.

    ¡°Once you¡¯ve taken the guards down, stand watch. We need to know if anyone shows up. Me and Kraken will get the safe open. We grab a few carts to haul the money, get it out to the car, and we¡¯re out of there. High tail it to our new home, ride off into the sunset as the greatest villains who ever lived.¡±

    The rest of the Rogue Five seemed to be in pretty high spirits about this operation, especially Swipe. She could already picture it. A grand, opulent manor with a large yard out front, fountains and everything. Oh, and it was right on the beach! She could go stand out on the back deck, breathing in the salty air and watching the waves. It was perfect. Everything she¡¯d ever wanted. Sure, pulling a heist at Dilstone Trust sounded crazy, but if that¡¯s what it took to get the life she¡¯d always dreamed of, then she would do it. All she had to do was get into the wiring and make the alarm break. That couldn¡¯t be too hard. Right?

    Content to cross that bridge when she came to it, Swipe nestled into Huntress¡¯s lap, relaxing completely as her fluffy ears were scratched and petted by her leader.

    ¡°You¡¯re a genius, mama¡­¡±

 The Heist

    Okay, maybe she wasn¡¯t ready for this. It was the dead of night, but Swipe had to take a moment to just stare at this vent. That thing looked tiny! How was she supposed to fit through that?! After a brief pause, Swipe radioed in.

    ¡°Uh¡­ Mama, this vent is like a foot wide at most.¡±

    Her walkie clicked and buzzed to life as Huntress¡¯s voice came through.

    ¡°Swipe, you¡¯ve fit through smaller vents before. You¡¯re alright.¡±

    Not bothering to respond through the walkie, Swipe sighed and flicked out her claws, removing the screws from the vent.

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t mean I gotta be happy about it¡­¡±

    Just before she could slip into the vent, a sound caught Swipe¡¯s attention. Her ears perked up as she tried to pinpoint its exact location, realizing that it was just an alley over. Swipe¡¯s tail flicked as she tried to decide whether it was worth investigating.

    ¡°... Two minutes¡­¡±

    She sprinted down the alley, ducking behind a dumpster to listen in on the screams and shouts for help. Not liking the sound of what was happening, Swipe looked down at her claws, her mind racing as she was faced with this decision. If she helped out, there was the risk that she wouldn¡¯t be fast enough to disconnect the alarm, but if she didn¡¯t help¡­ Swipe shook her head and stood up.

    ¡°Damnit.¡±

    Inside the bank now, Huntress had just taken out another security camera.

    ¡°Nice shot, hon.¡±

    Kraken patted her on the back. Motioning to Blaze and Zap, Huntress pointed out a pair of guards walking near the door to the back of the bank. Zap reluctantly followed Blaze, a wide grin on the larger man¡¯s face. Maybe Blaze was a little too excited. Zap¡¯s gray eye grew darker for a moment before sparks of neon blue started to dance across it. The guards chuckled to themselves while walking before one of them was hit over the head with a chair, collapsing to the ground thanks to the attack from Blaze.

    ¡°What the?!¡±

    As he turned around, the second guard had no time to react as a jolt of electricity was sent through his system, similar to the effects of a taser. He collapsed to the ground, a writhing mess. Sighing softly, Zap let go of the guard and motioned for Huntress and Kraken to join them.

    ¡°The guards are down, ma¡¯am. We¡¯re free to move forward.¡±

    Back in the alley, Swipe was standing on a man¡¯s back, holding out the recovered purse to an old lady. Her tail swayed slowly as a chuckle escaped her lips.

    ¡°Nice purse. Try not to head down any alleys alone next time, grammy.¡±

    Taking the purse from Swipe, the old lady softly petted her ears.

    ¡°Thank you, dear. You¡¯re such a sweet, wonderful young woman. I wish more people were like you.¡±

    Swipe sat back and watched the old lady leave before sighing heavily and shaking her head.

    ¡°It¡¯s always the old ladies. Poor thing has no idea what she¡¯s wishing for, hehe. Ah, shit. I gotta get back!¡±

    Running back to the bank as fast as she could, Swipe slipped into the vents, crawling like her life depended on it. It was a tight fit, but she had always been able to fit places she had no business fitting in. She figured it was probably related to the cat thing. Finding the electrical room, Swipe popped out of the vents and started reading every label.

    ¡°Lights¡­ Swivel doors¡­ Front desk? Why the hell do they have an entire separate system for the front desk?¡±

    This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.

    Whipping out her walkie again, Swipe called in.

    ¡°Gimme a second guys, I can¡¯t find the one for the alarm.¡±

    ¡°I bet I would¡¯ve found it by now. Sounds like a skill issue to me.¡± Blaze chimed in over his radio.

    ¡°Blaze, you couldn¡¯t have got your fat head through the vent!¡± Swipe retorted.

    Huntress facepalmed and shoved Blaze a bit.

    ¡°Alright, kids. No more fighting. This is important.¡±

    Taking her time to look around at every switch, Swipe was beginning to get frustrated. Everything else was so clearly labeled and marked. Where the hell was the vault? Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. That certainly wasn¡¯t a good sound. Turning towards the beeping, Swipe found the switch for the alarm¡¯s vault was also hooked up to the vent she had just popped out of. Attached to it was a sticky note, which simply read ¡°Good luck getting out of this one.¡± with a smiley face on it.

    ¡°... Oh fuck.¡±

    Swipe leapt through the air, grabbing a hold of the switch and flipping it right as it went off. She quickly radioed in.

    ¡°Abort! Abort! Somebody knew we were coming!¡±

    Blaze was already in the vault, grabbing everything he could. Kraken, Huntress, and Zap weren¡¯t far behind. Her eyes widening slightly, Huntress was quick to respond.

    ¡°What? That¡¯s not possible. Are you absolutely certain?¡±

    ¡°Yeah! They hooked the alarm up to the vent and left a note! We gotta get out of here!¡±

    Nodding, Huntress turned to the rest of her team.

    ¡°Alright everyone, we¡¯re cutting this one short. Grab what you can on this go. We need to get out of here. Now.¡±

    As each member of the group stuffed bags full of as much cash and gold as they could, Kraken overturned a gold bar, finding something underneath it. A small box filled with various documents. They seemed to be birth and death certificates belonging to an entire family. The Finnegans. Turning over the documents in his hands, Kraken tilted his head slightly and showed them to Huntress.

    ¡°This is pretty bizarre to find in a vault. What are these birth certificates doing here?¡±

    Taking a closer look at the certificates, Huntress seemed to recognize them.

    ¡°Don Finnegan? Alice and Bella too? They died in that blast a few years back. I remember the police thinking that Blaze had something to do with it. Of course, he didn¡¯t, but it¡¯s strange that these would turn up here¡­ No time to think on it now. Take them with us. Let¡¯s get out of here.¡±

    Huntress, Kraken, Blaze, and Zap, all took their loot and burst out the back door of the vault, getting into Huntress¡¯s old tan minivan. Meanwhile, Swipe was frantically making her way out of the vents, crawling as fast as she could.

    ¡°Gah. There¡¯s no way I¡¯m getting out of here before the heroes get here. Gotta hurry¡­¡±

    As she reached the vent and looked out, she seemed to be in the clear. Swipe cautiously poked her head out of the vent.

    ¡°... Phew.¡±

    As if on cue, a superhero that Swipe was very familiar with, landed in front of her. He was tall and broad, with a scaled black suit and wings on his back, reminiscent of a dragon. This of course, was why he had called himself Black Dragon, a very dangerous hero when he wanted to be.

    ¡°Well, well. Looks like we¡¯ve finally got one of you, huh?¡±

    Deciding it was the best course of action, Swipe ducked back into the vent.

    ¡°No thanks! I¡¯m good!¡±

    This drew a chuckle from Black Dragon, who opened the vent and reached in, trying to grab Swipe and drag her out.

    ¡°C¡¯mon out of there. We already have heroes on the inside too. There¡¯s no way out for you.¡±

    And then he got hit by a minivan. Black Dragon was tossed a decent distance by the hit, landing in the trash behind the bank.

    ¡°What the-?!¡±

    Swipe was quick to pop out of the vent and jump into the open door of the minivan as it sped off down the road, dozens of squad cars behind it.

    ¡°That was a close one! Thanks for not leaving me behind, guys!¡±

    As Huntress sped away from Dilstone Trust in her minivan getaway car, the group¡¯s new problem was in hot pursuit. There were at least a dozen cars behind them, lights and sirens blaring.

    ¡°We¡¯ve got company! Let¡¯s show them what we¡¯re made of!¡±

    Leaning out of the window slightly, Kraken extended a hand toward the officers in their cars.

    ¡°On it. They won¡¯t know what hit ¡®em.¡±

    As his concentration grew, the very ground started to rumble before a wall of water burst from below the streets, blocking the police in pursuit. Of course, they all tried to make the jump, soaring through the wave of powerful water. However, most of the cars lost control and spun out, crashing into each other. Only a handful made it through, five cars still in the chase.

    ¡°Nice work, Kraken. Looks like we still have a few more though.¡± Huntress said in praise of her husband.

    ¡°I got this one, don¡¯t worry one bit!¡±

    With a big grin on his face, Blaze leaned out a back window and created a fireball in his hand.

    ¡°Let¡¯s see ya get past this!¡±

    Cackling like a maniac, Blaze torched the road behind Huntress¡¯s car, the heat hot enough that it burned the rubber off the wheels of the first few squad cars. However, one car was left, driving up onto the sidewalk to escape the flames. Only seeming to speed up, that car was rapidly gaining on them. It was going to pull a pit maneuver on them. Realizing what was about to happen, Swipe reached for a little something special she had been working on.

    ¡°I really hope this actually works¡­¡±

    Standing up through the sunroof, she took aim at the windshield of the last car, right as it came up alongside them. It was now or never. This gadget needed to work. Throwing it as hard as she could, Swipe was delighted to see the windshield of the squad car covered in bright pink paint, causing it to swerve out of control, unable to see the Rogue Five escaping.

    ¡°Yes! Hahaha! That¡¯s what you get for messing with us!¡±

    The door to the now stopped car opened and out stepped the new chief of police. Richard Wood. For a brief moment, he locked eyes with Swipe and she could feel a sense of dread start to build in her chest. Even with the wind whipping her hair, her ears managed to fold flat against her head and her tail tucked firmly between her legs. She could feel her heartbeat accelerating rapidly, pounding away in her chest. She knew that face. She knew that scar. Knew where it came from. Ducking back into the minivan, Swipe grabbed Huntress¡¯s shoulder, her claws coming out unintentionally and digging into her.

    ¡°DRIVE!! DRIVE!! DRIVE!!¡±

    And drive, she did. As the Rogues sped away, simultaneously trying to calm the nerves of their youngest member, the chief simply watched. Finally, he leaned in and spoke into his radio.

    ¡°I want every unit we have on this case. Don¡¯t stop until we have them.¡±

 Revelations

    Bursting into the base, Swipe was still in a state of panic, desperately sprinting to her room with her tail tucked between her legs and her ears folded flat against her head. It felt like she was five years old again, hiding under her bed to get away from a monster. As her heart pounded rapidly in her chest, images flooded back into her mind. Images she had long forgotten, and would have preferred to keep that way. She could hear a stern voice calling her to the office, marching on instinct to appease him. She knew this man, but who he was to her had escaped her mind. Simply someone to be feared and respected, or she would face the consequences.

    Swipe remembered entering his office, seeing how neat and orderly everything was. It had been a long time since she had seen the office since she was locked in her room most of the time, so she took in the sight eagerly. It was nice to have a new place to imagine for a while. The scent of the pine air freshener mixing with fine wine filled her nose as she approached the man at the desk. A slight jolt of fear went through her body as the door closed behind her, turning to see a woman blocking her escape and walking toward her.

    ¡°Did I misbehave¡­? Am I being punished¡­?¡±

    With her own question, Swipe remembered numerous beatings she had received as punishment for various insignificant infractions. Starvation, whatever random object they could find, and degradation seemed to be their favorite weapons to use on her. She wasn¡¯t even human. She deserved it. At least that was what she had been taught to believe. What had been beaten into her every single day by these people. Swipe¡¯s eyes widened slightly as the man stood up and revealed a set of loppers obtained from the family gardener.

    ¡°Hold her down. I¡¯ll make her normal. We won¡¯t have to hide a freak anymore.¡±

    The woman was quick to pin Swipe to the floor, holding up her tail as the man got closer. Once again, Swipe could feel her fear building, beads of sweat rolling down her whole body as tears stung at her eyes. Acting purely on primal instinct to preserve her own life, mixed with raw terror, Swipe revealed a trait she had been hiding from these people who wished to harm her. Her claws came out and dug into the woman¡¯s arms, drawing a scream and making her let go.

    Jumping up just in time to avoid the lopper amputation of her tail, Swipe sprinted for the door, but found it to be locked. The only key, of course, was in the man¡¯s pocket. She knew it because she had seen it fall out once while he was beating her for chewing too loudly. As the man approached, taking a swing at her as if the loppers were a baseball bat, Swipe managed to duck under the attack, jumping up onto his chest and making a single slash with her claws. As soon as she saw the blood, she recognized who he was. Richard Wood. Chief of police. A panic spread through her system once more as he collapsed to the floor, clutching his eye and screaming.

    Swipe grabbed the key from his pocket and ran for the front door as fast as her legs would carry her. She was almost there. Almost free of this life. She could practically taste it. But just as she got there, a knock on her door snapped Swipe out of her trance. Huntress stepped into Swipe¡¯s room and it felt like the young catgirl was right back in that dumpster, the pouring rain drowning out every sound around them. It was just her and Huntress. No one else. Huntress knelt down, peeking under the bed with a soft smile.

    ¡°Swipe¡­ Are you alright? I¡¯m here. You¡¯re safe. Just tell me what¡¯s wrong, sweetie.¡±

    Huntress¡¯s tone was surprisingly gentle and soft for a woman of her reputation, and Swipe drew a familiar comfort from it, slowly crawling out from under the bed, out of the dumpster, and into her arms. Huntress, in return, cradled Swipe like a small child, as gently as she could, rocking back and forth slowly. A hand reached up to slowly comb her fingers through Swipe¡¯s hair as she started softly humming a lullaby. The very same lullaby from the day Huntress found her in that dumpster. Every moment of it seemed to bring Swipe more comfort and she slowly stopped hyperventilating, relaxing into her mom¡¯s embrace.

    ¡°Hush now, little one, let your tears all wash away¡­¡±

    After the song was over, Swipe seemed to finally be calm enough to speak. She wasn¡¯t that scared little girl anymore, even if deep down, she still was. Huntress pressed a soft kiss to the top of Swipe¡¯s head, soothing her further.

    ¡°Can you tell me what happened, Swipe?¡±

    Even now, her voice remained so soft and kind. It was a stark contrast to how cold and indifferent Huntress seemed to most people. She continued to gently pet Swipe, scratching behind her ears. As she was continuously showered in comfort and affection, Swipe nodded softly.

    ¡°I know him. From somewhere¡­ The chief.¡±

    The simple statement brought a knowing frown to Huntress¡¯s features, but she dared not stop comforting her daughter.

    ¡°How much do you remember?¡±

    ¡°He was cruel. I remember he wanted to¡­¡± Swipe spoke as her voice simply cut off, unable to finish the sentence. She didn¡¯t need to finish it. Huntress already knew.

    ¡°I know, dear. It¡¯s alright. You don¡¯t have to say it.¡±

    A heavy silence hung over the two of them in such a tender moment, neither wanting to break the spell. However, there was a question swimming around in Swipe¡¯s brain. The biggest one she had by far. She hated to ask it, having a feeling she may already know, but she simply couldn¡¯t bear it anymore. One way or another, she simply had to know.

    ¡°Who is he? To me, I mean¡­¡±

    A soft sigh escaped Huntress¡¯s lips. She knew the question was coming, and the answer could bring Swipe more pain, but she couldn¡¯t lie to her. The time had passed from when she was content to let Swipe believe what she would. It was time for the truth.

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    ¡°He is your father, Swipe. Your biological father.¡±

    The news hit Swipe like a truck, her ears flattening again as her eyes widened in shock. She slowly shook her head, not wanting to believe it.

    ¡°No¡­ That can¡¯t be right. You would never be with a man like him, mama. I know that¡­¡±

    Her heart breaking, Huntress lowered her head slightly.

    ¡°That¡¯s true, Swipe. I was never with him. But he is your father.¡±

    Swipe was brought to tears, her whole reality crumbling around her. Her father was the police chief? Did that mean Huntress wasn¡¯t her mother? Who was she? Who was Swipe? Was she?

    ¡°I¡¯m adopted¡­?¡±

    ¡°While now may not have been when I planned to tell you, yes. You were more or less adopted, Swipe. I found you in a position of need, and I took you in. I¡¯m not your biological mother.¡± Huntress responded softly. However, she then leaned forward slightly to cup Swipe¡¯s chin in her hands.

    ¡°But that doesn¡¯t change how I love you. I may not be your mother, but I am your mama. I always will be, I promise you that, Swipe. There is nothing I wouldn¡¯t do for you. No matter what, I want you to remember that you are loved. You¡¯re still my little girl.¡±

    Melting under the affection, Swipe wrapped her arms tightly around Huntress, squeezing and holding onto her like the last lifeline in a dark, unending sea.

    ¡°I still love you too, mama.¡±

    Another moment of silence came to exist between them as they held and comforted each other. Finally, Swipe simply had to ask one final question.

    ¡°I¡¯m Katherine, aren¡¯t I? Katherine Wood.¡±

    A simple nod was all Huntress gave in response. It was difficult for both of them. Swipe was dealing with her past being violently shoved back into her life along with the horrific realization that her mama wasn¡¯t her mother. For Huntress, it was difficult to see Swipe so upset. Even if they were technically unrelated, Huntress loved Katherine as if she were her own daughter. She always had, and always would. Hurting her little girl was the last thing she wanted to do, but at the same time, she knew it was necessary. The only way to heal these old wounds was to address them properly. There was no other way.

    There was an odd peace in knowing. It brought Swipe comfort in a way, knowing that Huntress wasn¡¯t obligated to care for her, but had chosen to do so anyway. As she nestled into Huntress¡¯s arm, Swipe¡¯s tail came to rest on her mama¡¯s leg and she laid down on her chest. A moment or two later, she was out like a light. Just like she was still a little girl. A knock on the door interrupted the moment, and Huntress returned to her usual stoic self, standing up with Swipe in her arms.

    ¡°Enter. She¡¯s asleep.¡±

    Kraken, Blaze, and Zap all entered the room. Blaze chuckled to himself seeing Swipe asleep while Kraken stepped closer.

    ¡°How is she?¡±

    ¡°She knows now. I think I managed to calm her down.¡± Huntress replied flatly.

    Tilting his head a bit, Krakengently stroked Swipe¡¯s hair.

    ¡°What does she know?¡±

    Huntress only shook her head in response. ¡°You¡¯ll know when she¡¯s ready to tell you. I only know because I have to.¡±

    Watching from afar, Zap finally stepped closer, examining Swipe¡¯s sleeping form.

    ¡°Is she going to be alright? I¡¯m not sure what happened, but her reaction was pretty strong.¡±

    ¡°Heh. If I know our kitty cat, she¡¯ll be alright. ¡®Sides, she got us, ain¡¯t she? What more could she want?¡± Blaze chuckled while bumping into Zap¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°Time, Blaze.¡± Huntress stepped back away from Blaze as he reached out to pet her.

    ¡°She needs time, and she¡¯s going to receive it.¡±

    Taking the hint and not wanting to piss off Huntress, Blaze backed off and stood next to Zap. Kraken followed Huntress and Swipe out of the room, leaving Blaze and Zap behind. As they walked back to their room, Kraken rested a hand on Huntress¡¯s shoulder and turned her to look at him.

    ¡°You know they only want to help, dear.¡± He spoke softly.

    Huntress shook her head.

    ¡°Maybe they do. But they need to respect her needs right now.¡± She responded, her fingers still gently combing through Swipe¡¯s hair.

    ¡°Is this what she needs right now? Or is it what you want her to need, Anna?¡±

    Something about that struck a nerve within Huntress and her expression hardened.

    ¡°What are you implying, love? Of course I love having her close. It reminds me of when I found her. She was so small back then, but her heart was in the right place. It always has been. I may enjoy holding her, but I wouldn¡¯t dare do so if she didn¡¯t need it.¡±

    Sensing that he had lost this exchange for now, Kraken simply nodded.

    ¡°I don¡¯t intend to make her uncomfortable. If you¡¯re going to be keeping her company tonight, I¡¯ll sleep on the couch. Best that she only has her mama, right?¡±

    Huntress scoffed and stepped closer, grabbing a hold of Kraken¡¯s arm. Her grip was firmer than normal.

    ¡°You know she trusts everyone on this crew with her life. Get your ass in bed.¡±

    Kraken chuckled softly as the two of them entered their room, Huntress carrying Swipe in her arms.

    ¡°That she does, love. And I¡¯m honored to have that trust.¡±

    Blaze and Zap, meanwhile, had returned to the living room to watch a game of football. Zap, being the newest recruit, had the least idea of what was happening.

    ¡°Do you think Swipe¡¯s going to be alright? You know her better than I do, I¡¯m just worried. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever seen anyone react like that to something I can¡¯t even name.¡±

    Blaze simply shrugged and glanced back at Zap for a moment.

    ¡°If I know Swipe, she¡¯s gonna be fine. I give her hell, sure, but she¡¯s a tough kid. We may not know what made her spaz out like that, but I¡¯m gonna find out.¡±

    Later that night, Huntress was in bed, holding Swipe close to shield her from the nightmares she knew would otherwise attack her daughter. As she gently stroked her hair, she looked up to her husband, who was still pacing the room, looking at the birth and death certificates of the Finnegans. Kraken¡¯s face contorted in confusion as he tried to understand what purpose they had in that vault.

    ¡°I just don¡¯t understand. Someone knew we were coming and placed a trap for us. And these were in the vault? I know they blamed us for those deaths. You can¡¯t help but think it seems a bit too convenient to be a coincidence.¡±

    Nodding softly, Huntress simply continued to pet Swipe, being as soft and gentle as she could.

    ¡°I agree. Either it was planted for us to find, or someone didn¡¯t want us to find them. The question is, who would it be? Why don¡¯t they want us to find these certificates? And why did they have them in the first place?¡±

    As the pair considered the bizarre placement of the documents, Swipe stirred in her sleep, mumbling something incoherent about loving marshmallows before she started chewing on Huntress¡¯s pillow. Huntress simply observed her for a moment before gently correcting her, moving her away from the pillow.

    ¡°I guess that explains why her pillows keep getting punctured¡­¡±

    ¡°Yes, that would certainly do it.¡± Kraken remarked, scratching his chin.

    After a moment of thought, Huntress¡¯s head tilted.

    ¡°You know, I believe it was Black Dragon who worked during that incident. Perhaps he can help us.¡±

    ¡°You want to ask a hero for help with a case that we¡¯re believed to be responsible for?¡± Kraken asked, raising an eyebrow.

    Huntress simply chuckled darkly and shook her head.

    ¡°No. But I know where he lives. We¡¯ll get our answers the hard way. It¡¯s what we do, after all.¡±

 Dragons Lair

    The manor of Black Dragon stood before them, tall and imposing. The dark bricks stood out like a sore thumb against the otherwise pristine backdrop of the city. There were three stories at least, with multiple balconies for the hero to take off and land quickly when he needed to. A tall spire completed the manor¡¯s appearance, making it almost resemble a hodgepodge of medieval castle and modern mansion. As Black Dragon took flight from a balcony, heading into the city to fight crime, Huntress ducked behind the bush the group was using as cover.

    ¡°Alright. That should keep him busy for a while. Let¡¯s move. No lingering beyond what we need to do.¡±

    Not a single member of the Rogue Five questioned Huntress, moving forwards to reach the grand front door. Swipe¡¯s tail flicked as she extended a claw.

    ¡°Heh. Let¡¯s see if this works.¡±

    Jamming her claw into the keyhole, Swipe jiggled her finger around for a bit, listening to the clasps and mechanisms of the lock as she picked it.

    ¡°C¡¯mon¡­ I can hear you giving way¡­¡±

    Click. The door unlocked, allowing the Rogue Five to surge into Black Dragon¡¯s manor. Blaze and Kraken led the charge, each quickly turning to the sides, fire and water ready to wreak havoc if need be. However, they found nothing needing to be destroyed yet.

    ¡°Clear.¡± Kraken reported, stepping out of the way to allow the rest of them in.

    ¡°Clear¡­¡± Blaze grumbled in response, having hoped to burn something today.

    The foyer was huge, two sets of doors lining each of the side walls while a grand staircase lay before them, stretching into the unseen upper floors. A few bookcases and potted plants served as decoration in the room, cushioned benches taking up the space between them along the walls. It was too quiet. Too empty. However, this allowed a soft sound to reach Zap¡¯s ears.

    ¡°Wait. Someone¡¯s coming. Hide.¡±

    The rogues were quick to duck behind a bookshelf, however, this left Blaze with nowhere to go. Blaze grimaced as he searched the foyer for somewhere to hide, his usual cocky and arrogant demeanor giving way to a slight panic.

    ¡°Uh¡­ Aha!¡±

    To the collective disappointment of the rest of the Rogue Five, Blaze ducked behind a potted plant. This did basically nothing to conceal him at all and the flames on his head could very clearly be seen above the foliage. Soon enough, the source of the group¡¯s panic became clear. A young maid strolled into the foyer with a feather duster clutched between her wings. She was far from an ordinary maid, her mint green feathered wings matching her short bob cut hair. She had no arms. Only wings where they should have been. Her legs also seemed to be somewhat birdlike, complete with talons where her feet would normally be. Her brown eyes stayed closed most of the time as she danced to the cheesy pop tunes she was listening to with her earbuds. She wore a typical black maid outfit, and seemed to be completely oblivious to her surroundings while dusting off various pieces of furniture, humming along to her favorite tunes.

    Huntress sighed in exasperation as she glanced at Kraken.

    ¡°Ditzy harpy. Haven¡¯t seen any of them in a while. Wonder how Black Dragon managed to hire one as a maid¡­¡±

    As the maid continued to perform her duties, cleaning everything in sight, she picked up the pot that Blaze was hiding behind, dusting it off and remaining oblivious to his presence. However, after she set the pot down, her eyes narrowed and she studied the flames dancing over the plant.

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    ¡°Huh? FIRE!!¡±

    The poor girl quickly ran out of the room, allowing the Rogues a moment of reprieve. Blaze simply laughed at the harpy and turned to look at the rest of his team.

    ¡°Heh. You guys thought she was gonna see me, didn¡¯t-¡±

    Blaze was cut off by a fire extinguisher being used on him, the foam coating his entire head while the harpy girl yelled triumphantly.

    ¡°Take that, fire! Yeah! Boss is gonna be so proud of me!¡±

    Once the foam ran out, Blaze wiped it from his eyes and groaned, the flames coming right back on his head as he slowly stood up.

    ¡°Not your typical fire, chicken nugget.¡±

    Finally seeing Blaze, the harpy maid¡¯s eyes widened in fear as she stumbled backwards, her wings flailing as she tried to catch herself. This failed and she fell over, stammering in utter terror.

    ¡°Ahh! V-Villains! Villains! Help!¡±

    The harpy maid was soon silenced by Zap giving her a small shock and knocking her out cold. As her form slumped to the floor, Huntress smacked Zap in the back of the head.

    ¡°What the hell, Zap?¡±

    Flinching slightly from the smack, the newest recruit turned to face his leader.

    ¡°She was screaming! I thought we were supposed to be doing a stealth mission!¡±

    ¡°You idiot, there¡¯s no one else here.¡± Huntress scoffed, pinching the bridge of her nose in exasperation.

    ¡°Just heal her before we move on, okay? Maybe she can help us find what we¡¯re looking for.¡±

    Begrudgingly, Zap did kneel by the maid¡¯s side to begin healing her. Swipe squatted next to him and poked the maid¡¯s cheek, a smirk forming on her lips.

    ¡°Pretty little bird, ain¡¯t she?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d call her more of an inconvenience.¡± Zap sighed, continuing to heal the harpy.

    When she woke up, the harpy maid¡¯s eyes fluttered and took a look around at each member of the Rogue Five.

    ¡°Ow¡­ My head hurts. What happened?¡±

    ¡°You took a fall. Easy now.¡± Huntress answered in a softer voice than normal.

    This seemed to bring the girl back to her senses and she realized that she was surrounded by villains. With a rather pitiful little yelp, she tried to get up, only for Huntress to catch her shoulder.

    ¡°P-Please don¡¯t hurt me! I didn¡¯t see anything, I swear! I won¡¯t tell!¡± The harpy girl whimpered between her sobs.

    Huntress sighed softly and shook her head. ¡°Calm down. We¡¯re not here to hurt you. We just need you to help us find something, okay?¡±

    The rest of the Rogue Five watched tensely, ready to react if the harpy didn¡¯t respond well. Kraken stood directly behind the girl with Blaze by his side. Zap was prepared to zap her again if she tried anything, and Swipe was ready to chase her down if she ran, even if she felt a little bad about it. Fortunately, the harpy nodded in agreement, allowing the tension to be dispelled. Swipe helped her up.

    ¡°Good choice! I would¡¯ve hated having to chase ya.¡± Swipe joked while rubbing her thumb over the harpy¡¯s feathers.

    ¡°Hey, these are nice. Real soft too.¡±

    ¡°Oh, um¡­ thank you.¡± The harpy responded before looking to the rest of the group.

    ¡°What is it you need me to help you find?¡±

    Kraken produced the certificates they had found and held them out for the harpy girl to see. The first of these was the father of the family, Don Finnegan. Tilting her head a bit at first to read it, the harpy¡¯s face fell.

    ¡°What? What do you need to know about him?¡± Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes as the harpy looked down and away.

    ¡°He¡¯s dead anyways¡­ you killed him.¡±

    Kraken placed a hand on her shoulder, giving a soft pat.

    ¡°We found these somewhere they shouldn¡¯t be. It seemed like someone was trying to hide them. I know the public believes we¡¯re responsible, but we didn¡¯t kill this man. Nor the rest of his family. We¡¯re trying to figure out what happened to them and we figured your master might know something. Can you show us his lair?¡±

    Reluctantly, the harpy agreed and led the Rogues to the manor¡¯s staircase. Rather than going up the stairs, she pressed her wing into the third step, which beeped before the stairs slid into the wall, revealing a hidden flight of stairs going down. Blaze brightened the flame on his head, whistling sharply as he led the way into the dark.

    ¡°You know what? I take it back. This Black Dragon guy has some serious style points. How cool would it be to have one of these for ourselves, eh?¡±

    While the rest of the Rogue Five followed Blaze, debating on the practicality of having a hidden staircase and where they would even put it, Swipe stayed back with the harpy, walking a little further behind the group.

    ¡°You okay? I¡¯m guessing you knew Don, huh?¡± She questioned, her voice soft and understanding.

    The harpy girl looked at Swipe, somewhat perplexed.

    ¡°Of course I knew him. He was my dad after all.¡±

    This revelation stopped Swipe dead in her tracks, pulling the harpy to the side to whisper quietly.

    ¡°What? That¡¯s not possible. He only had the one kid. Who are you?¡±

    The harpy girl looked deeply into Swipe¡¯s eyes, a hint of vulnerability shining through.

    ¡°My name¡¯s Bella. Bella Finnegan.¡±

 The Dragon

    Following Blaze, Huntress, Kraken, and Zap soon found a large monitor. Delivering a small shock to the system, Zap was able to power it on. The screen lit up and came to life, displaying a generic computer background. A few folders sat off to one side of the screen.

    ¡°Heh. Guess Black Dragon don''t know how to change his background, eh?¡± Blaze chuckled, moving the mouse to one of the folders marked as sensitive.

    ¡°Wait. Look there.¡± Huntress corrected, moving the mouse back to an app with security cameras.

    Not only did it show the entire manor, including the lair, it showed cameras for the entire town. As Huntress and Kraken scoured the displays, finding cameras in every bank, on every street including their own, Blaze noticed the one looking at this particular part of the lair and made a face for it. Huntress whacked him on the back of the head.

    ¡°Very mature, Blaze.¡± she chided.

    As the rest of the group continued to search the cameras, Swipe came running up to her friends with Bella held above her head.

    ¡°Guys! You¡¯re not gonna believe this!¡±

    Blaze was the first to notice, raising an eyebrow.

    ¡°What? I¡¯m not gonna believe you¡¯re strong enough to pick up a harpy?¡± he joked, laughing to himself as Swipe approached.

    ¡°Not now, Blaze!¡±

    Swipe set down Bella in front of the rest of the Rogue Five, the poor girl a little shaken from just how easily she had been picked up.

    ¡°Tell them who you are!¡±

    Bella took a moment to hesitate before looking between each of the Rogue Five and giving a tiny wave with her wing.

    ¡°Hi. Um¡­ I¡¯m Bella.¡±

    ¡°Bella Finnegan.¡± Swipe finished.

    This naturally got the attention of the entire group and they all turned to her.

    ¡°That¡¯s impossible.¡± Huntress started, moving closer to the harpy.

    ¡°The Finnegans were all humans. And beside that, Bella died. We have her death certificate right here.¡±

    Kraken handed it forward for the harpy girl to look at, which made her blood run cold. A death certificate with her name on it? She wasn¡¯t dead. She was very much still alive. Yet, there it was. Clear as day. Bella Finnegan. Died four years ago. Age of Death was listed at sixteen, but she was twenty now.

    ¡°W-What? No. I¡¯m not dead¡­ Master saved me. I owe him my life.¡± She responded, her lip quivering slightly.

    ¡°Saved you? You mean Black Dragon?¡± Zap asked, stepping forward.

    Bella nodded in response, prompting Huntress to go back to the cameras.

    ¡°He has footage of all of Dilstone. If she¡¯s telling the truth, maybe we can verify it.¡± She explained, flipping over to the camera by the Dilstone energy plant. Of course, it was the only one that was down. It was in an explosion after all.

    Fortunately, rewinding the footage, Huntress put it about an hour before the blast that had claimed the lives of the Finnegan family. The whole group watched in silence as the family walked into frame. Sure enough, there was Bella, in all of her feathered harpy glory. She seemed so happy with her parents. However, the first blast soon took place off camera, causing the entire building to shake. When the second, much closer blast hit, a shadow could be seen making its way across the screen. Finally, as the third and final blast happened right in front of the camera, the last thing that could be seen before the camera went offline was a dark winged shape hurtling toward Bella. It was almost certainly Black Dragon.

    Thoroughly unsettled by this turn of events, Swipe glanced at her teammates.

    ¡°Hey guys. If Black Dragon saved her, why¡¯d he say she died? Seems kinda weird, don¡¯t ya think?¡±

    Scratching her chin, Huntress turned to face the young harpy.

    ¡°Even stranger that he didn¡¯t just claim she died in the blast, but that we were responsible. He knew no one would look into that claim. He knew they¡¯d all believe him. He¡¯s a hero after all.¡±

    Kraken nodded softly in agreement.

    ¡°Perhaps there is something special about Bella. Something our ¡®hero¡¯ wanted to keep to himself.¡±

    ¡°A maid? I mean, she¡¯s cute, but I doubt she does a particularly good job.¡± Blaze remarked, shrugging his shoulders. ¡°No offense. The wings just don¡¯t seem practical for holdin¡¯ stuff, ya know?¡±

    Bella frowned a bit as she looked down to the floor.

    ¡°Yeah¡­ I drop stuff a lot¡­¡± she answered shyly.

    Swipe smacked Blaze in the back of the head, as was tradition in the Rogue Five. Giving him a quick glare, she stepped over to Bella and softly patted her shoulder.

    ¡°There, there, don¡¯t listen to him, he¡¯s just jealous he can¡¯t fly.¡±

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    Her light hearted chuckle was cut short by Bella tilting her head slightly.

    ¡°But I can¡¯t fly either.¡± she said.

    ¡°What? All harpies fly. It¡¯s part of being a harpy. Why can¡¯t you fly?¡± Swipe asked, a hint of concern appearing on her features.

    ¡°Master clipped my wings.¡± Bella answered, as if that were a completely normal thing to say.

    A hushed silence fell over the lair of Black Dragon as the Rogue Five all processed what they had just been told. So not only had Black Dragon, a supposed hero, kidnapped Bella and claimed she was killed by the Rogue Five. He had clipped her wings, crippling her for life and depriving her of what was a basic bodily function.

    ¡°He what?¡± Huntress asked coldly, stepping forward to look down into the trembling harpy¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Let me see.¡± She demanded, not bothering to wait for an answer before she grabbed and examined Bella¡¯s wings.

    Sure enough, there were clear signs of damage. Thankfully, it didn¡¯t look permanent, but it would be a long time before Bella was capable of flying again. Maybe four to five years, based on Huntress¡¯s limited medical knowledge.

    ¡°That monster.¡± She seethed, releasing Bella¡¯s wing. ¡°We¡¯ll make your ¡®master¡¯ pay for what he did to you.¡± Huntress promised, looking to the rest of the Rogues.

    ¡°We¡¯re taking her with us.¡± she announced.

    Naturally, this got quite the reaction out of the ragtag group of villains. Zap was surprisingly the first to step forward.

    ¡°Huntress, if we take her with us, Black Dragon will know we were here. He¡¯ll hunt us down and he has the means to do it.¡± He countered quietly.

    Shaking her head, Huntress turned to Bella. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. He¡¯d find out one way or another. I¡¯m not leaving her to suffer. Bella, go pack your things. This man is not your savior. He is using you. To what end, I do not know.¡±

    With a shimmer in her eyes, the young harpy nodded softly and ran up the stairs to get anything she might need. At Huntress¡¯s request, Swipe followed close behind. Blaze and Zap started pulling camera footage to turn over to the authorities, proving their innocence and Black Dragon¡¯s guilt.

    Now alone, Kraken stood beside Huntress and placed an arm around her shoulders.

    ¡°Adopting another kid, are we?¡± he teased.

    Huntress sighed softly and nodded. ¡°You know I can¡¯t leave her here¡­ I already deal with three knuckleheaded kids. What¡¯s a fourth? At least she¡¯ll probably listen to me most of the time.¡±

    The pair shared a soft laugh and a quick kiss before joining Blaze and Zap in their efforts to grab as much as they could.

    Meanwhile, Swipe followed Bella through the halls of the manor, eyeing the opulent decorations. It felt imposing and familiar in all the worst ways. She could practically hear her name being called harshly from the office as they passed it. Finally reaching Bella¡¯s room, the harpy used her talons to hold a key and unlock the door, pushing it open. It was surprisingly barren for such a spacious room. A twin sized bed, a few shelves, and a chest of drawers was all that existed in here.

    Despite the spartan living arrangements, Bella smiled softly and stepped inside, starting to stuff some of her clothes into a plastic bag. After all, it was all she had.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it so nice that he allows me to have my own room? I mean, sure, he clipped my wings and I work as his maid, but otherwise, he¡¯s been good to me!¡± she chirped, an almost fake cheeriness easily detectable in her voice.

    ¡°Bella¡­ this place is empty. He hasn¡¯t been treating you as anything more than free labor. If he could¡¯ve, I don¡¯t doubt your room would¡¯ve been smaller. Hell, he probably tried to stick you in a closet somewhere.¡± Swipe reminded her, trying to keep her tone gentle since she knew this was probably a lot for Bella to handle right now.

    ¡°Oh, we tried. We couldn¡¯t quite get the bed to fit.¡± Bella confirmed, nodding softly.

    She stood up and walked over to a shelf. With an almost reverently gentle touch, the young harpy scooped up a small figurine that looked to be carved from wood.

    ¡°This belonged to my mother.¡± she spoke, softly. ¡°It¡¯s all I have left of my parents¡­¡±

    As Bella pocket the trinket, Swipe stepped closer and gave her a warm hug, her tail swaying slowly behind her. The cute little gasp from Bella didn¡¯t deter her, although it definitely didn¡¯t go unnoticed.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯re gonna bring this guy down for what he did to your parents. I promise you that. One way or another, we will.¡± Swipe said, rubbing Bella¡¯s back in a soothing motion. It was a move that Huntress had frequently used on her when she was younger, so she knew how effective it was.

    For a moment, Bella simply let herself be held, her forehead softly thunking against Swipe. It only lasted for a moment, but it was a moment that was well needed. And not just for Bella, either. Both parties benefited from a moment to feel the embrace of another.

    Soon enough, Bella and Swipe returned downstairs to find the rest of the Rogue Five waiting on them.

    ¡°What took ya so long?¡± Blaze asked, eyeing the plastic bag that contained anything of value for Bella. ¡°Figured you were bringing down a couple suitcases. That¡¯s all you have?¡±

    This comment earned Blaze another smack in the back of the head, this time courtesy of Kraken.

    ¡°It¡¯s alright. It¡¯ll probably be easier to travel light anyways. You can always find new things to call your own.¡± He reminded her, nodding politely.

    However, just as the Rogue Five turned to leave, the front door opened to reveal none other than the man of the hour himself. Black Dragon. As the superhero stepped into the manor, he sighed heavily to himself.

    ¡°Well, that was a wasted trip. You¡¯d think people would learn not to false alarm a busy hero.¡±

    He stopped in his tracks, however, as he noticed the Rogue Five standing between him and his living room, Bella placed behind them as if the criminals were protecting her.

    ¡°Ah, I see.¡± He started, stepping toward the band of criminals. ¡°Someone¡¯s been snooping where they shouldn¡¯t.¡±

    Black Dragon unfurled his wings, creating an intimidating sight.

    ¡°Maid. Go to your room. I will deal with these criminals.¡± he ordered, smoke already coming from his mouth.

    However, Huntress stepped forward, undeterred by the sight of the hero so aggressive. She drew her trusty crossbow and aimed it directly at his head.

    ¡°She will do no such thing. Bella will be free again.¡± She stated coldly, her determination unwavering.

    ¡°Then you will die.¡± Black Dragon answered, rearing back and shooting forth a blast of his fiery breath.

    Before the blast could hit Huntress, Blaze shielded her with his own body.

    ¡°Hahaha! Gonna take more than a little fire to put us out, Dragon!¡±

    Kraken pulled water from pipes in the walls to create a shield from the flames, keeping everyone safe. As he slowly worked his way forward, trying to match the intensity of Black Dragon¡¯s flames, he turned his attention to Zap and Swipe.

    ¡°Go! Get her out of here!¡±

    With no time to protest, Swipe grabbed Bella with one hand and Zap with the other. Smashing through a window, she led her companions to the relative safety of the outdoors. The further they ran, the worse it seemed to get. Dozens of patrol cars sped past them, forcing Swipe and Zap to lay low as much as they could. Finally, the group of three made it to the home that had served as their hideout for so long. But missing three of their own made the place feel lifeless. It had never been so quiet.

    ¡°Swipe¡­ What do we do now?¡± Zap hesitantly asked. ¡°With Huntress, Kraken, and Blaze gone¡­ you¡¯re our leader now.¡±

    Even Bella seemed to be looking to Swipe for some sort of direction. The catgirl, however, was having none of it. After taking a moment to catch her breath from all the running, she turned to the only friends she had left.

    ¡°We don¡¯t know that they¡¯re gone yet. Give them some time. I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll come back. M-Huntress never loses¡­¡±

    Taking a deep breath to try and calm her nerves, she turned to Bella. ¡°You can stay with me tonight. I¡¯d offer you a spare room, but it doesn¡¯t feel right when they aren¡¯t here. Besides, they¡¯re coming back, so there won¡¯t be any spare rooms. Don¡¯t worry, I don¡¯t hog the blankets.¡± she joked, trying to keep the mood light.

    Despite the attempt to remain confident and calm, Swipe knew all three of them could practically feel the tension in the room. The fear, the regret, the pain. This was a completely unprecedented event for the Rogue Five. None of them had ever been anywhere near capture before. And now they didn¡¯t know if the rest of the group was even still alive. It was horrible.

    Later that night, Swipe lay in bed with Bella off to the side. She made sure to keep plenty of distance while the harpy slept, no matter how much she wanted to cuddle up in those fluffy wings and let the warmth take away all of her problems. As she watched the news of the day¡¯s events on the television, her heart sank with despair, her ears folding flat against her head.

    ¡°Breaking news!¡± The reporter declared in that annoyingly overdramatic voice that Swipe had always hated. ¡°Rogue Five members Huntress, Kraken, and Blaze have all been arrested today following an incident at the Black Dragon Estate. Initial investigations suggest a break in, either a heist gone wrong, or the group was searching for something specific. However, their misdeeds were once again thwarted by our city¡¯s great hero. The three villains are being held in Lockly County Jail while they await trial. Measures have been taken to prevent their escape. Swipe and Zap are still at large, however. We ask everyone to be on the lookout. They are armed and danger-¡±

    The reporter was cut off by Swipe turning off the television and letting her head fall back against the pillow. She wasn¡¯t sure how to feel at this point. On one hand, the police had apparently arrived in time to prevent Black Dragon from killing them, but on the other, her mama was jailed in a place specifically designed to hold superhumans, along with the rest of her team. Millions of questions swirled around in her mind. Would it even be possible to save them? Would they be sentenced to life in prison? Worse? How was Swipe supposed to lead an operation like this? With a heavy groan that seemed to almost be halfway between a sigh and a choked out sob, she stared up at the ceiling in defeat.

    ¡°What am I gonna do?¡± she asked herself, quietly, as she slowly drifted off into a night of restless sleep and nightmares.

 Jailbreak

    The morning was as somber as the small band of criminals had ever experienced. With no leader, missing over half of them, Swipe found herself in a position she had never expected to be in. Suddenly she was the one who had to take charge and make decisions. And all she had was Zap to help her. Technically Bella was also there, but Swipe didn¡¯t plan on forcing the poor harpy girl into a life of crime. With a heavy sigh, she finished her breakfast and stood tall at the table.

    ¡°We¡¯re gonna get them out of there.¡± she declared, her voice resolute.

    ¡°How?¡± Zap asked, reasonably. ¡°The place is specially designed to contain superhumans, so we won¡¯t be having any help from the inside, and they¡¯ll be surely expecting us to try something.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Swipe admitted, her tail flicking in agitation. ¡°But we can¡¯t just leave them behind.¡±

    Zap sighed heavily and pushed his chair back, standing up.

    ¡°Swipe, if there was any way we could pull it off, I would. But it¡¯s impossible. Armed guards twenty-four seven, they know we¡¯re coming, and there¡¯s only two of us. And you know Black Dragon¡¯s gonna be monitoring that call line like a vulture. I¡¯m sorry, but Huntress has told us before that if anything happened to her, we should lay low and use what we have to live a better life. That¡¯s the whole point of the Rogue Five.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you lecture me on the ¡®point¡¯ of this team. I was there when it was formed.¡± Swipe spat, her hands gripping the table. ¡°After everything they¡¯ve done for you, you¡¯re content to let them rot in prison. Who helped you learn to control your powers? Blaze did. Who was the first person to actually show any respect for you or your abilities? Huntress was. And who helped you every single day with even the small stuff that nobody else would have cared about? Yeah. Kraken did. So either you can help me save them, or you can run away. Leave us all behind. What¡¯s it gonna be?¡±

    A tense silence filled the room, neither Swipe nor Zap backing down. Their eyes bore into each other with an intensity never before seen in either of them. Finally, Zap pushed his chair in and sighed, shaking his head.

    ¡°If it were possible, I would help you, Swipe. But it isn¡¯t. And I didn¡¯t sign up to die. I¡¯m sorry. I wish you good luck. You¡¯re going to need it.¡±

    With that, Zap turned and walked right out the front door. He was gone. Zap had left the Rogue Five. No. Without him, they were the Rogue Four. Worse yet, Huntress, Kraken, and Blaze were all in jail. Swipe found herself as the only Rogue remaining. There was no group. There was no team. Zap had just dealt the death blow to this team. Once she was sure he wasn¡¯t coming back, Swipe finally slumped into her chair, her face in her hands, and started sobbing. In less than twenty-four hours, she had lost everyone she had ever cared about.

    As her body heaved with emotion, unable to hold back the flood any longer, Swipe felt a pair of soft wings wrapping around her, like a warm, comforting blanket. Bella made sure to be as close as possible to Swipe.

    ¡°It¡¯s gonna be okay¡­¡± she whispered softly, trying to soothe the catgirl¡¯s frayed nerves. ¡°We can figure this out. I¡¯ll help you. Promise.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to figure out¡­ I¡¯m not going to make you do that¡­ You deserve a better life.¡± Swipe managed to reply softly between her sobs.

    She slowly leaned into the embrace of the sweet harpy, finding a comfort in her sheltering wings that she had desperately needed. Swipe¡¯s ears flattened against her head and her tail curled up between her legs as she lay her head on Bella¡¯s shoulder. A moment of peace, of solace, where there had been none for so long.

    ¡°You¡¯re not forcing me.¡± Bella stated, gently rubbing Swipe¡¯s back with her silky feathers. ¡°You guys saved me when I didn¡¯t realize I needed saving¡­ You didn¡¯t have to take me with you, but you did. I¡¯m so grateful for that. I want to do everything I can to help you.¡±

    Time was running out. It would only be a day or two before Lursec came to collect the villains. And once they were in the super prison, there would be no getting them back. No one had ever escaped it. Even with outside help. Taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, Swipe finally sat up and looked into Bella¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Alright. If we¡¯re gonna do this, I¡¯m gonna need to know you¡¯ve got my back. I¡¯ve got yours too.¡± she said, her voice soft, but determined.

    Bella nodded softly, her big blue eyes looking directly into Swipe¡¯s to show her sincerity.

    ¡°I promise.¡±

    With that, Swipe and Bella got to work, planning an audacious jailbreak. Just two girls with animal features planning to break into a heavily guarded jail for superhumans, which was also being monitored by a hero that wanted them dead, and escape with three hardened supervillains. What could possibly go wrong? Nothing. If anything went wrong, they were both dead or worse. The plan was simple enough. All they needed now was the time to execute it.

    Approaching the jail from the rooftops, Swipe and Bella peeked out over the side at Dilstone¡¯s Superjail. The city hadn¡¯t exactly been creative in naming it. As the group of guards stood around outside the front entrance, Swipe gave Bella the signal, the harpy girl flying over and starting a friendly conversation with the guards.

    ¡°Hello, sirs!¡± she cheerfully greeted, drawing their attention to her. ¡°I came to visit my papa. I heard he¡¯s in jail here. I hope he¡¯s okay. He¡¯s never done anything like this before.¡±Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

    The guards were understandably very confused by this girl talking to them so casually. Visits weren¡¯t allowed. Everyone knew that.

    ¡°Uh, kid? You can¡¯t come in here. Not safe for you. Besides, we¡¯re working with superhumans here. Anything could be enough for them to escape.¡± he answered, professionally. The other guard nodded in agreement to his statement.

    ¡°But everyone¡¯s supposed to be allowed a visit! He¡¯s been good, I promise!¡± Bella whined, intentionally playing up the distressed kid angle.

    This proved a perfect distraction as Swipe slipped in right past the guards while they were distracted with Bella¡¯s whining. The vents were probably some of the cleanest Swipe had ever been in. Even the banks weren¡¯t this clean. Then again, someone probably cleaned them to make sure every aspect of containment was working. Swipe quickly smacked herself to stay focused. She had a mission and she needed to be quick about it. No time to admire the vents, even if they were super clean.

    Crawling her way through the jailhouse, Swipe soon found the cells, each with something different about them in order to contain the separate members of the Rogue Five. Kraken¡¯s hands had been placed in anti-power cuffs, covering his whole hand and making it impossible to use his gifts. The cell was exceptionally dry too, but surely he would be able to find some water if his hands were just freed¡­

    Blaze was certainly worse off by far. His ¡°cell¡± if it could even be called that, was more of an aquarium. He was completely submerged in water and chained in place, only a helmet on his head supplied with oxygen to allow him to breathe. Blaze didn¡¯t need his hands to summon fire, just somewhere to summon it. Only he couldn¡¯t do that without risking drowning.

    Finally, she found Huntress. Everything about her was dangerous. She was well known for her incredible fighting skills and how she could turn anything into a weapon. She was more or less in a full body straightjacket. Her arms and hands were restrained, and so were her legs. Her eyes were the only thing visible on her, as she could theoretically wield something in her teeth if she had to. And no one doubted she would.

    It made her sick. Swipe could almost feel herself throwing up at the sight of the treatment her family had received. She needed to get them out of here. No time to waste. Finally, she found what she was looking for. The chief¡¯s office. And there he was. That sick bastard of a man, fast asleep in his chair. Even the sight of his face caused Swipe to recoil in fear, retreating back into the vents where he wouldn¡¯t be able to see her. She could feel her heartbeat speeding up again, the sensation familiar to her by now. As Katherine relived her pain once more, she found herself in her own mind. She needed to be strong. For her family. For her mama.

    Steeling her resolve, Swipe opened the vents and silently slipped out into the chief¡¯s office. A thought crossed her mind to get some grand revenge on him for all the pain he had caused her. Maybe tie him down and lop off his ears like he had planned to do to her. Scratch and claw at his face until even his own mother wouldn¡¯t recognize him. But no. Unlike her father, Swipe wouldn¡¯t inflict such pain without reason.

    Besides, she had more important things to worry about. Swipe quickly ducked down by his side, taking the keys from his belt extra slowly to make sure they didn¡¯t jingle and wake the chief up. However, those plans were shattered by Bella running by the window and screaming her little harpy head off as she was chased by the same two guards she had talked the ears off of. Stirring from his slumber, chief Wood watched Bella fly away through the window, muttering something about blasted kids before noticing the catgirl with his keys.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll be damned.¡± He spoke darkly, his hand darting out to grab Katherine by the throat. ¡°I had a feeling you¡¯d be here, you worthless excuse for a criminal.¡±

    He quickly pulled Katherine to her feet and pinned her to the wall, paying no mind to her choked protests, her hands prying desperately to get him off despite the futility. Tightening his grip, the chief slowly drew his gun and held it directly to Katherine¡¯s head.

    ¡°I should have done this the moment you were born. You¡¯re no child of mine. You never have been and you never will, you worthless bitch.¡±

    In that moment, every fear Katherine had ever had, returned to her in an instant. Her father had always wanted to kill her. And now he finally had a good reason to. She would die here, at his hands, her family left to rot in prison. Just as the tears started to prick at her eyes from a lack of oxygen and the intense sorrow she felt, Katherine found herself right back in that manor. This was no different. The loppers had become a gun, but the intent was the same. To harm her. But his words stuck out to her this time. She wasn¡¯t his daughter. Katherine had never been his daughter in his eyes. For almost two decades now, she had been worried about what he thought of her. Desperately seeking his approval in some way. But why? He would never accept her. She wasn¡¯t his daughter and she never had been. No. Because she wasn¡¯t Katherine Wood. She wasn¡¯t his perfect daughter. She was Swipe.

    ¡°You¡­ got that¡­ right. I¡¯ll never¡­ be¡­ yours.¡±

    Finding her strength, Swipe snarled and dug her claws into the chief¡¯s arm, wrenching the gun away from her head just as he fired and he let out a guttural scream. Prying his hand off of her throat, Swipe tossed him to the ground, just outside the door to his office. Still holding onto the gun, he rolled back onto his feet and raised his weapon at Swipe. However, just as it all seemed over, his body spasmed and twitched, writhing on the floor as the gun clattered away. As the electricity coursed through his body, Zap stepped into view.

    ¡°You son of a bitch, I thought you were gone!¡± Swipe yelled, rushing over to give the guy a hug, her tail flicking to the side.

    As Zap finally stopped his electrocution, he chuckled softly and a bit nervously. He wasn¡¯t used to this kind of affection. Usually Swipe would just punch him or something. Not knowing what to do, he patted her back awkwardly, like the idiot sibling he always had been to her.

    ¡°I just couldn¡¯t leave you to do this alone.¡± Zap answered. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s get this done. I don¡¯t think we have much time. I heard the Lursec guys would be here in a couple hours. We need to not be here by then.¡±

    Finally finding something to agree with Zap on, Swipe nodded in affirmation and quickly took the chief¡¯s keys. She stopped for a moment to look down at the man she had once believed to be her father.

    ¡°I just want you to know one thing. That I¡¯m better than you. Better off without you. And you have no power over me anymore.¡±

    After that bitter farewell, Swipe found herself racing away down the hall with Zap by her side. Kraken was the first stop, Swipe entering and using the keys to remove his cuffs.

    ¡°Swipe? Zap? The hell are you doing here? Your orders from Huntress were to lay low.¡± He questioned.

    ¡°Missed you too, Krak. Blaze is underwater. Let¡¯s get him out.¡± Swipe replied as the cuffs fell to the floor.

    Feeling his power resurge through his veins, Kraken took a deep breath in and pulled every drop of water from Blaze¡¯s room, flooding the jailhouse aside from the cells to wash out any potentially remaining guards. Almost instantly, a blast could be heard from Blaze¡¯s cell as his flames roared back to life.

    ¡°I FUCKING HATE WATER!!¡± could be heard for miles, most likely.

    Finally, using the fire that had been so long constrained, Blaze quickly broke free of his restraints and blew down the door to Huntress¡¯s cell, Kraken quickly following. Huntress still lay on the floor, looking up at her team.

    ¡°Kraken? Blaze? How have you escaped? You were in cells specifically designed to counteract your abilities.¡± She questioned, incredulous.

    A soft smirk tugged at Kraken¡¯s lips as he stuck the key into Huntress¡¯s straightjacket, unlocking it.

    ¡°We may have had some help.¡± he answered slyly.

    ¡°Who the hell would help-¡± Huntress¡¯s words died on her lips as she sat up and saw Swipe and Zap standing in what was once the doorway to her cell.

    Silently standing up, she walked over to her two youngest recruits and pulled them into her arms.

    ¡°... Does that mean she¡¯s not going to kill us?¡± Zap asked hesitantly.

    ¡°Oh no. I¡¯m absolutely going to kill both of you. But I¡¯m glad to see you too.¡± Huntress answered calmly.

    ¡°Eh. Kinda figured. Worth it though.¡± Swipe grinned, returning Huntress¡¯s embrace.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go home. I wouldn¡¯t kill you in a jailhouse.¡± Huntress ordered gently, leading her little family of ragtag criminals away from their most recent crime.

 Meeting

    With the full group gathered around the kitchen table just like old times, Huntress gestured to Swipe and Zap, asking them to explain what had happened while they were incarcerated. Zap could practically feel the sweat rolling off of him as he tried to figure out what Huntress would do when she found out about his little desertion. Of course, Swipe would naturally tell her.

    ¡°Nothin¡¯ much. Me, Zap, and the bird came up with a little somethin¡¯ and we busted ya out.¡± Swipe offered with a shrug of her shoulders.

    Slowly realizing that he was not about to be eviscerated, Zap calmed down, definitely feeling grateful to Swipe for not ratting on him. Maybe they really did stick together.

    ¡°Bella?¡± Huntress inquired with a slight tilt of her head. ¡°And where is she, exactly?¡±

    As if on cue, the harpy walked down the stairs, looking a little ruffled, but otherwise not worse for wear. A bright beaming smile spread across her face as she descended the final few steps into the kitchen.

    ¡°Hey! It worked! I¡¯m glad you guys got out okay!¡± She exclaimed.

    ¡°Thank you, Bella. Your assistance is greatly appreciated.¡± Huntress answered, watching as the harpy walked over to stand next to Swipe.

    ¡°So. What¡¯s this news you have to share, boss?¡± Zap asked, folding his arms to appear more casual.

    Taking a moment to sigh, Huntress glanced between each of the members of the Rogue Five, her gaze lingering on Kraken slightly. Maybe appreciatively? It was hard to tell sometimes.

    ¡°After we had the three of you escape, the police didn¡¯t take long to arrive. They were able to subdue Blaze and Kraken, although he gave me the opening I needed. I fled deeper into the manor, hoping to lead them to his base, perhaps show them what he had done. But¡­¡± her voice trailed off.

    It was unlike her to trail off. She was usually so calm, so stoic in the face of anything that came her way. A chill ran down Swipe¡¯s spine as she noticed Huntress shiver.

    ¡°I found something else. His lab. I¡¯ve never seen anything like it.¡± Huntress continued.

    ¡°Hundreds of cages, each containing at least three harpy children. Research on his computer about a sort of serum. What for, I don¡¯t know. But it can¡¯t be good. Only Black Dragon followed me in. I had to flee back to the officers and surrender. I barely escaped that hellhole with my life.¡±

    Naturally, the mood had dampened quite severely. Bringing up experiments on children tended to have that effect. Kraken in particular seemed disturbed by the concept of it, reaching out a hand to place on Huntress¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°Children? I¡¯m sorry you had to see that, dear.¡± He soothed, beginning to softly rub her shoulder.

    ¡°And why should you be sorry?¡± Huntress asked, rhetorically. ¡°You¡¯re all going to see them too. We¡¯re going back to get them out.¡±

    ¡°Uh, boss? You sure about that? Now that Dragon knows we¡¯re onto him, he¡¯s gonna be all over that mansion. We¡¯d be fried to a crisp before we even made it to his lair.¡± Blaze cautioned.Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.

    There were murmurs of agreement from Kraken and Zap, neither wanting to be burnt alive or potentially worse. A hint of frustration hit Swipe and her tail lashed because of it before she stepped forward.

    ¡°There has to be somethin¡¯ we can do. We can¡¯t just leave the kids to die or get tested on like lab rats. Maybe there¡¯s a time he¡¯ll have to leave the house. Somethin¡¯, anything.¡± she protested.

    ¡°Actually, there might be.¡± Bella offered, still trying to be helpful.

    ¡°Master- I mean, not master Black Dragon mentioned something about accepting the key to the city in about¡­¡±

    Bella turned and strained her neck to look at a calendar on a far wall.

    ¡°... three days?¡±

    ¡°Well, seems like it¡¯s settled then.¡± Huntress declared, standing from her seat.

    ¡°Alright, Rogues. The plan is simple. While everyone¡¯s least favorite hero is busy playing up the act and accepting his big award, we raid the manor. Free the kids, take as much evidence as you can carry, and we¡¯ll expose this creep for who he really is.¡±

    Cheers of agreement went up from around the table, all in favor of this plan. As the group broke, however, Blaze stopped Swipe and pulled her aside. This was unusual for him to say the least, but there was trust between them, so Swipe didn¡¯t mind.

    ¡°Eh? What¡¯s up?¡± Swipe asked casually, leaning against the wall.

    Blaze, not particularly versed in how to handle sensitive topics, glanced around for a moment to make sure they were alone before turning his attention back to Swipe.

    ¡°Just noticed that you kinda reacted to somethin¡¯. Not really sure what it was, but it seemed like it scared the shit out of ya. You know, when you stormed up to your room after the heist and closed us out. What was up with that?¡±

    The question hit Swipe like a facepalm. Of course he was curious. Why wouldn¡¯t he be? Nobody else knew besides her, Huntress, and probably Kraken. And frankly, Swipe wasn¡¯t sure about whether he knew.

    ¡°Ah. That. Well, it¡¯s not really a thing I like talkin¡¯ about, ya know. Kinda personal.¡±

    Blaze nodded in understanding, joining Swipe in casually leaning against the wall. He crossed his arms over his chest, wanting to pursue further information, but not wanting to cross a line.

    ¡°That¡¯s alright. Just worried, I guess. I mean, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever seen you scared. Much less that scared. I ain¡¯t gonna force it out of ya, but if you do want to talk about it, I¡¯m always around. You know where to find me.¡±

    Blaze patted Swipe¡¯s shoulder and started to leave, only for Swipe to stop him, her hand holding onto his jacket.

    ¡°No. It¡¯s not right to keep you in the dark. Not right to keep anyone in the dark. The sheriff is what scared me.¡±

    ¡°The sheriff?¡± Blaze asked, turning back in surprise to face Swipe. ¡°I don¡¯t get it. He just seems like a guy with a scar to me. Kind of a creepy scar, but that¡¯s it. What makes him so scary?¡±

    There was a long pause of silence as Swipe tried to decide whether or not to finally tell the truth.

    ¡°... He¡¯s my father.¡± she whispered softly, her ears flat against her head.

    ¡°Your father?¡± Blaze questioned, not believing it. ¡°But he didn¡¯t have any other kids after the one that went missing.¡± he pointed out, completely oblivious.

    Swipe just stared at Blaze for a moment in genuine shock over what he had just said.

    ¡°Blaze. That missing kid was me, you idiot.¡±

    Yeah. Blaze felt like an idiot. However, he was glad to see Swipe throwing insults at him again. Didn¡¯t feel right without them.

    ¡°Oh. That makes a lot more sense. Heh. Don¡¯t know why I thought you were some secret mystery child of his or somethin¡¯. But why are you so scared of your dad? Thought you¡¯d be glad to see him. Leave our sorry asses behind and go live it up with the rich people.¡±

    ¡°Blaze, my father hates me.¡± Swipe responded.

    ¡°He tried to- well, it isn¡¯t important on the specifics, but he was a violent man when I was a kid and he still is now.¡±

    Blaze¡¯s expression darkened at the mention of Swipe¡¯s father harming her and he gritted his teeth.

    ¡°Well, looks like your father has someone else that hates him. I ever see him, I¡¯ll light him up like the fourth of July.¡±

    ¡°Blaze, that won¡¯t help. You don¡¯t win by torchin¡¯ everyone that makes you mad, you dunce.¡± Swipe retorted, shaking Blaze¡¯s jacket slightly.

    ¡°It¡¯s better to prove him wrong. Show him what we can do. Don¡¯t forget we have to stop whatever Black Dragon¡¯s up to. Make the city realize he¡¯s been the real problem all along. Clear your name on the death of Bella¡¯s parents. Don¡¯t add another body to the list.¡±

    With a heavy sigh, Blaze nodded and turned, looking back toward the living room.

    ¡°Alright. I get it. No torchin¡¯. But hey, game¡¯s on. Wanna chill out for a bit before all hell breaks loose?¡±

    Grinning, Swipe followed Blaze to the living room.

    ¡°Heh. Sounds good to me. But you know the rule. Every time we score a touchdown I¡¯m gonna slug ya.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll see if I feel it this time.¡± Blaze retorted, chuckling to himself.

    ¡°Oh you¡¯re on, dumbass.¡±

 The Takeover

    It was surprisingly easy to break into Black Dragon¡¯s Manor for a second time. The door locks once more proved to be no match for Swipe¡¯s claws, opening with a soft click. As the Rogue Five cautiously entered, they kept their eyes collectively peeled for anything that seemed off. Any security systems added. Anything. However, there didn¡¯t seem to be anything new in the home of the corrupt hero.

    The descent into the basement lair was silent and tense, with Bella especially on edge. She fidgeted with her wings, wringing the feathers to try and soothe herself. Checking the cameras allowed confirmation that Black Dragon wasn¡¯t here. He was all too busy accepting that award. It made Huntress sick. But now wasn¡¯t the time for that. They had work to do.

    Finding that the door to the lab was sealed shut, Huntress turned to Blaze.

    ¡°Alright, do your thing. Don¡¯t overdo it. We need to make sure we don¡¯t hurt them.¡± She ordered.

    Blaze was all too happy to oblige, stepping up to the door and flaring his fire bright.

    ¡°Heh. You got it, boss. One door, comin¡¯ up.¡±

    Blasting the door with a wave of heat, the metal started to drip and deform, liquifying with the force of the inferno unleashed upon it. Soon enough, the fire torched through the heavy metal door and horrified gasps could be heard on the other side. As Blaze¡¯s burn ceased, he stepped through and opened the door from the inside.

    ¡°Ta-da!¡±

    If nothing else, it got a chuckle out of Swipe before everyone else stepped into the lab. The inside was a very minimalist design, meant to be as ruthlessly efficient as possible in achieving Black Dragon¡¯s goals. A front desk to the lab was seemingly the only furniture aside from a station near the back, which was likely only there because the desk didn¡¯t have enough space for more equipment. Lining the walls were dozens of cages shaped almost like test tubes. Each cage contained at least three harpy children, although most held five or more. None of the children looked to be any older than fifteen and all of them were very clearly frightened by the sudden invasion.

    ¡°What the hell¡­?¡± For once, Kraken was at a loss for words, his own wisdom and guidance failing him.

    Walking over to one of the cages, Swipe slowly stuck her hand through the bars.

    ¡°Hey. It¡¯s okay. We¡¯re gonna get you guys outta here¡­¡± She soothed, hoping they¡¯d understand.

    Zap, meanwhile, had gone to the desk, checking for any sort of keys to unlock the cages. What he found, however, was Black Dragon¡¯s research. A vial of blood was stored in a small desk freezer to preserve it, the label of ¡°subject 0¡± prominently taped onto it. Standing next to Zap, Bella tilted her head slightly at the find.

    ¡°Hey, that¡¯s me. He took that when he brought me here¡­ He was going to check for diseases¡­¡±

    ¡°Looks like he checked for a lot more than just disease.¡± Zap answered grimly, looking over the research notes.

    ¡°Apparently he¡¯s been using your blood to alter human DNA. So that means¡­¡±

    The unsettling implications hung heavy in the air as Huntress joined the pair at the front desk.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to bring him down.¡± She reassured, looking over the notes as well.

    Soon enough, the point behind his research became clear. A highly detailed document relating to an object Black Dragon had created, capable of controlling harpies. All it would take was a simple press of a button on his remote to activate a latent part of their biology with microchips, making them serve his will unquestioningly.

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    ¡°That bastard.¡± Huntress muttered under her breath. ¡°When and how does he plan on using this?¡±

    ¡°Never.¡± Swipe answered, extending a claw to use as a key again. ¡°Not if I¡¯ve got anything to say about it.¡±

    However, there was no keyhole on the cells. The lock seemed to be controlled via fingerprint. Only Black Dragon could unlock it. As Swipe muttered a few colorful curses under her breath, Blaze stepped up.

    ¡°Well, we got options. Let¡¯s gettem out of there!¡± Blaze declared, his inner fire heating up to melt through the cage.

    However, Kraken stopped him with a hand on his shoulder.

    ¡°Wait. You can¡¯t. You¡¯ll harm the children.¡± He warned, gesturing to the small size of the cages. The newly harpied children would have nowhere to escape the heat.

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯d really rather not leave here with a bunch of roast chickens, Blaze.¡± Zap commented, looking for anything that might be helpful.

    ¡°Ugh, we need somethin¡¯ to break through! Bella!¡± Swipe called, looking over her shoulder at her feathered friend. ¡°You know this place better than we do. You think ol¡¯ Dragon¡¯s got any power tools?¡±

    ¡°Oh! There¡¯s some in the attic! C¡¯mon, I¡¯ll show you!¡±

    Swipe and Bella left the laboratory, leaving the other rogues to guard the place and gather evidence. As they made their way through the manor, up flights of stairs and down long hallways, the various busts of Black Dragon made it feel like they were being watched at all times. A calculated move to keep anyone from trying anything. Every turn felt like he could simply appear and rain down his trademark righteous fury upon an unsuspecting maid. A fidgeting ruffle of feathers caught Swipe¡¯s eye and she reached an arm around Bella¡¯s shoulders to provide at least some semblance of safety.

    As the pair ascended the steps into Black Dragon¡¯s attic, the air chilled slightly. The attic itself was well maintained at least, with several neatly lined shelves of boxes. Each box had a different label on it, marking old papers, clothes that were out of season, and other possessions of the manor¡¯s lord. A toolchest sat in a corner of the room, precisely what they were looking for.

    Meanwhile, down in the laboratory, while Zap was scouring the research notes, and Blaze and Kraken were looking for safe ways to free the captives, Huntress¡¯s attention turned to the monitor near the desk, which was tapping into local news and recording. Recording? Was he really that vain to record his own award? Probably. His smug face said it all while the mayor was giving his speech.

    ¡°While the Rogues may have escaped our jailhouse, we have no doubt that our mighty hero, Black Dragon, will capture them again. Once retrieved, Lursec is waiting to pick them up. And now, it is my great honor to present our esteemed hero with the key to the city. Maurice, if you will.¡±

    Huntress bit back the urge to gag at Black Dragon¡¯s smirk. She really wished she could be doing something else right now, but sadly, this was about all she could do for now.

    With the big fake key in his hands, Black Dragon turned to address the crowd, although he was clearly focused on the camera.

    ¡°Yes indeed, my good mayor. I will capture these fiends and bring them to face the true might of justice. And greetings to the governor and city council as well. It¡¯s so nice to have everyone all right here, together in one place.¡±

    He wasn¡¯t wrong. Pretty much every important person in Dilstone was there. Hell, there were even some state level politicians like the governor. It was an impressive turnout. And that¡¯s when it hit her. He wasn¡¯t recording to get footage of him accepting an award. Black Dragon was recording what was about to become a hostile takeover.

    ¡°We need to get them out of there. Now.¡± Huntress ordered, picking up the nearest chair and bashing it into one of the cages to try and force it open. The cage was stronger than it looked, however, and didn¡¯t budge at all.

    Behind her, on the screen, Black Dragon¡¯s smirk turned from cheesily heroic to downright sinister. He gestured broadly with his arms to the audience.

    ¡°I must thank you for the award. It¡¯s quite touching to be entrusted with the key to the city. But of course, we all know this key is little more than a trophy. Something to be given out for doing a good job. It doesn¡¯t actually unlock any gates or do anything of value. This, however¡­¡± The fallen hero started, pulling out a small remote.

    ¡°Now this is what a real key to the city looks like. Don¡¯t bother trying to run. The blockades for this event have you all trapped in. My army will be here within seconds of me pressing this button. Those who resist will be eliminated. I¡¯ll be taking this city for myself. And Huntress? I know you¡¯re watching. Don¡¯t keep me waiting. Let¡¯s finish our fight this time.¡±

    With that, he pressed the button. Kraken reached out, attempting to control the hydraulics of the cages as they were lifted into tubes for launch. However, he soon found that they ran on pneumatics instead. Black Dragon had already thought of that plan.

    ¡°We need to move. Now.¡± Huntress ordered, racing up the steps, trailed closely by the rest of her team. As they burst out the front door, all they could do was watch as an army of harpies was released from above, flying straight for the main city.

    Meanwhile, in the attic, Bella had found the tool they were looking for. An angle grinder.

    ¡°Hey! I found it!¡± Bella chirped, holding up the tool with one of her talons.

    ¡°Nice one.¡± Swipe answered, stiffening as she heard a series of screeches. Turning and looking out the attic window, she was horrified to see the harpies flying straight for the center of Dilstone.

    ¡°Son of a bitch, he actually did it. Bella, we need to get down there. Forget the tools!¡± She ordered in a panic.

    Turning, however, Swipe¡¯s eyes widened and her ears flattened against her head when she saw that Bella¡¯s eyes had glazed over. The once bubbly girl was now eerily calm and unresponsive, simply staring at Swipe like she was studying her. Sizing up her new opponent.

    ¡°Bella? Ah shit, not you too¡­ Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll save you. I promise you, Bella.¡±

    Bella turned on the angle grinder.

 Fight for the Future

    Dilstone City Park was a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. The tranquil atmosphere and pleasant greenery attracted many families and city events alike. These trees could tell all sorts of stories. Or at least they could when they weren¡¯t on fire. As Huntress, Kraken, Blaze, and Zap arrived, the scene was very different. Apparently some poor soul had tried to run and Black Dragon had made an example of them, explaining the now scorched trees. Everyone in attendance from the award ceremony was currently huddled up together in the same spot, but Black Dragon was nowhere to be seen.

    ¡°He¡¯s above us!¡± Huntress shouted, her team scattering just in time to avoid a massive blast of fire raining down from above.

    Black Dragon landed right in the center of the flames, a rogue on each side of him. Standing up to his full height, he towered over everyone. Even Blaze seemed almost short compared to the dragon¡¯s might. A wicked grin spread across his face as he slowly turned and looked between each of the rogues, completely unconcerned by their presence. This grin faltered for a moment once he turned back to Huntress.

    ¡°What? No kitty cat today?¡± He mocked in an almost baby voice. ¡°Sure hope she can deal with a few birds¡­¡±

    Before Huntress could act, a blast of lightning hit Black Dragon, Zap¡¯s power flaring to dangerous new heights. The hero was brought to his knees, a grimace forming as he noticed Blaze charging up a fireball and Kraken clearly drawing from the sewers below. A tendril of water burst from the nearest manhole before flying at Black Dragon and rapidly crystalizing into ice. With a mighty yell, Black Dragon shot forth a massive fireball of his own, melting and evaporating the ice spear before it could reach him.

    Blaze¡¯s fireball was quite intense as it crashed down over its target, resulting in a loud boom, hurling most of the group back. Out of the ashes, however, Black Dragon stood calmly and approached Blaze, grabbing his shoulder.

    ¡°Not bad. But you¡¯re not the only one who¡¯s fireproof.¡± He warned before lifting off the ground and slinging Blaze into a nearby wall. The fiery Rogue crashed straight through it, falling unconscious in the rubble.

    Kraken and Zap also seemed to be hurt, but not quite to the extent Blaze had been. Seeing how quickly this fight was spiraling out of control, Huntress fired her trusty crossbow, the bolts bouncing harmlessly off of Black Dragon¡¯s armor. A bolt did find its mark in his cheek, however. With a snarl, Black Dragon ripped out the crossbow bolt and slung it into the dirt, flying at Huntress with incredible speed.

    Her sword flew from its sheath in a flash, deflecting the fallen hero and sending him hurtling into a nearby picnic table, which splintered under the heavy impact. As Black Dragon stood, a fresh dent in his armor could be seen where the blade had impacted. The once mighty and fearless hero didn¡¯t seem so invincible anymore.

    Kraken rejoined the fray, choosing to go hand to hand with his opponent. Coating his fists in continually supplied ice, he threw punches like a professional boxer. Going blow for blow with Kraken, Black Dragon spewed flames to try and catch his opponent off guard. This worked, forcing Kraken to block the otherwise deadly attack and leaving him open to a punch in the gut.

    As Kraken stumbled back, Huntress surged forward, taking a swing with her sword and forcing Black Dragon back onto the defensive. Now recovered from his temporary unconsciousness, Blaze leapt into battle just in time to serve as a shield for his leader. The fiery criminal grinned and laughed like a madman. He lived for fights like these.

    ¡°Let¡¯s see what you got, bitch!¡± Blaze challenged, charging forward and slamming into Black Dragon.

    Kraken came back into the fight with a nice shot to the lower back with his ice cold punches, leading to a sort of back and forth game of Black Dragon catch between him and Blaze. With Zap having also recovered, the rookie once again locked Black Dragon down with a continuous stream of electricity, forcing the former hero to his knees.

    A few miles away, the fight was very different. Black Dragon¡¯s attic was in a state of utter chaos. Shelves were overturned, holes had been punched in the walls and ceiling, and a brainwashed harpy had just inadvertently discovered that most power tools can double as highly effective weapons.

    Ducking under a flying angle grinder, Swipe grimaced and ran circles around Bella, trying to figure out how to address this situation. The thrown power tool promptly crashed through the window, at which the harpy seemed to temporarily regain some of her mental agency. Her master would be very upset with her for breaking that window after all. Not one to pass up a golden opportunity, Swipe pounced, tackling Bella to the floor and hanging onto her with all four limbs.

    ¡°Bella, snap out of it!¡± She yelled, trying to force her friend to see reason. ¡°This ain¡¯t you! Fight back!¡±

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    Bella did in fact fight back. Just not against Black Dragon. With surprising strength, the harpy stood and slammed her back into a wall, forcing Swipe to take the brunt of the impact and earning a grunt of pained protest. Free from the grip of her feline enemy, Bella found and revved a chainsaw, swinging it around wildly in her wings. It wasn¡¯t a particularly difficult thing for Swipe to dodge, but it did present other issues.

    ¡°Bella! Put that thing down! You¡¯re gonna hurt yourself!¡± Swipe shouted, ducking under a particularly clumsy swing.

    Sure enough, the chainsaw soon slipped from Bella¡¯s gripless wings, and it bounced a good distance thanks to the spinning blade before embedding itself in a far wall.Grabbing the end of a long piece of rope, Swipe pounced on Bella again, pinning her friend once more to the floor.

    ¡°Sorry, Bell! I¡¯ll come back to getcha when this is over, okay?¡± Swipe promised as she tied up a very squirmy harpy.

    Bella, of course, was having none of it. However, with her wings and legs now tied, she couldn¡¯t do much of anything besides roll around on the floor and screech. That screech turned into two screeches. Then four. Then ten. Suddenly, harpies were crashing through the attic from the outside, further complicating matters for Swipe. Sure, she had managed to restrain one harpy relatively safely, but she was woefully unprepared to deal with almost a dozen of them.

    ¡°... Ugh. I think I¡¯m gonna be late to the party.¡± Swipe grumbled, tying her rope into a lasso at one end. ¡°Welp. Always wanted to try this lasso thing. Might as well.¡±

    In Dilstone City Park, Black Dragon continued to struggle against Zap¡¯s electric hold on him. Meanwhile, Blaze and Kraken continued to throw punch after punch until Huntress gave the word and they instead focused on holding him down. Raising her sword, Huntress¡¯s gaze never left her target. She had never killed a man before, but sometimes, exceptions had to be made.

    ¡°This ends. Now.¡± Huntress declared, bringing the blade down.

    However, in a flash of motion, Black Dragon flapped his wings, soaring into the sky just as his head would have been severed. Silhouetted by the sun he blocked out with his body, he took a moment to catch his breath before grinning like a madman.

    ¡°You¡¯re strong. I underestimated you, I¡¯ll admit to that.¡± He mused. ¡°But you are right about one thing¡­ This does end now.¡±

    Swooping back down, Black Dragon rained fire from above, forcing Kraken, Zap, and Huntress to roll out of the way. Blaze, for one, was undeterred and jumped up to catch Black Dragon midair, slamming the dark hero back to the ground and splitting the sidewalk with his armor. Unbothered by the fiery punches being thrown his way, Black Dragon stood tall, tossing Blaze off of him. As Huntress warned Blaze not to fight alone, Black Dragon caught one of the punches and quickly snuffed out the flames. Twisting his opponent¡¯s arm, a sickening crack could be heard as Blaze snarled in pain and the former hero grinned wickedly.

    ¡°There¡¯s only one fire themed superhuman in this town, Blaze. And that¡¯s me.¡± He whispered before flying again and tossing Blaze into the side of an office building, straight through the windows.

    Down to only three fighters, Huntress quickly ducked and rolled to reach the rest of her crew, narrowly avoiding another pass from Black Dragon¡¯s flames.

    ¡°We need a plan and I think I have one.¡± Huntress said, dumping her supply of crossbow bolts. ¡°Kraken, use your water to get these bolts in the air. Space them out evenly if you can.¡±

    ¡°What should I do?¡± Zap asked, watching as Kraken started creating almost a grid pattern in the skies above.

    Clapping the young man¡¯s shoulder, Huntress smirked. ¡°Light them up, rookie.¡±

    Realizing what Huntress¡¯s plan was, Zap concentrated and that familiar neon blue returned to his eye. Focusing his power on the nearest bolt, he unleashed the full might of his electricity, watching the current spread from one bolt to another to form what may have been the world¡¯s deadliest net.

    ¡°Bring him down, love.¡± Huntress ordered, to which Kraken quickly complied.

    The net started to shrink, limiting where Black Dragon could and couldn¡¯t fly. Slowly, but steadily, he came close enough to the ground for Huntress to look him in the eyes.

    ¡°Now!¡± She commanded, the bolts darting toward Black Dragon at lightning speeds. In a burst of fire, the net was gone, but it had done its job. Black Dragon was on the ground, allowing Huntress to charge in with her blade. Forming an ice spear, Kraken was close behind, stabbing at the hero as Huntress took aim at his face.

    Between the vicious attacks, Zap would hurl bolts of electricity, attempting to throw Black Dragon off his game. However, he managed to grip and then crush Kraken¡¯s spear before bellowing fire into his face. Kraken kept up his defensive wall of water for as long as he could, but it wasn¡¯t enough. Huntress¡¯s attempted beheading of Black Dragon was the only thing to save Kraken, who was forced to dodge. Heavily burned, Kraken stumbled backwards and collapsed into the grass.

    Zap didn¡¯t fare much better. Flying toward his less experienced opponent at mach speeds, Black Dragon grabbed a hold of him and blasted through a nearby tree before unceremoniously dumping Zap into a trashcan. Enraged by what she was seeing, Huntress realized she was the last one who could stop him. She charged forward, but instead of grabbing a blade or a crossbow, she leapt onto Black Dragon and grabbed a grenade.

    Finally, after way more failed attempts than she would like to admit to, Swipe managed to lasso one of the harpies. The fact that they were all screeching and divebombing her definitely didn¡¯t make things any easier either. Once she had that one tied down, she got to work, quickly managing to lasso and secure each of the ten harpies that had been sent after her.

    ¡°Whew.¡± She sighed, looking over the near dozen harpies she now had tied up in a madman¡¯s attic. She never thought she¡¯d be doing that, but here she was.

    ¡°Right. I gotta go get you guys back to normal. Eh, well mostly normal. You guys be good birds now, okay?¡± She naturally didn¡¯t get a response from the brainwashed harpies, but there was little she could really do about that here.

    ¡°Cool. See you in a bit.¡± With that, Swipe tore through the manor and out the front door on all fours for maximum speed. Her claws provided extra traction as she sprinted through the city streets, eventually reaching Dilstone City Park. As she took in the destruction around her, the burning trees, and her fallen teammates, she ran to their sides.

    ¡°Kraken?! What happened?! Talk to me!¡± She demanded. In his current weakened state, however, Kraken only looked toward Huntress.

    Swipe¡¯s eyes widened in horror as she noticed the grenade, knowing what Huntress planned to do. This plan was quickly derailed by Black Dragon throwing off Huntress and slamming her to the pavement of the sidewalk. He planted a foot on Huntress¡¯s chest as a cruel smile spread across his face.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting to roast you alive since our first-¡± He drawled coldly before being cut off by Swipe.

    ¡°HEY!! You thought your harpies could stop me?! Do it yourself, ya worthless wannabe!¡±

 The Dragon and the Cat

    The raw tension hung in the air between Swipe and Black Dragon, clogging up their lungs and making it hard to breathe. It all came down to this. Swipe was the only person left to stand between Black Dragon and the start of his new empire. Intrigued by the tenacious catgirl, he stepped off of Huntress and took a step toward his opponent. He couldn¡¯t afford to underestimate her. Not now. Not when victory was his for the taking.

    ¡°A bold choice for you to show up now. I suppose even the scared little kitten hiding in a vent shaft needs something to die for.¡± He taunted, wings unfurling in preparation.

    ¡°We¡¯ll see who dies today.¡± Swipe responded, launching herself forward on all fours like a rocket.

    Leaping skyward, Black Dragon easily vaulted over Swipe, staying airborne with his mighty wings. As he laughed at the pitiful attack, he bellowed fire from above. This was precisely what Swipe had been hoping for. She easily outpaced the flames, sliding right under him to grab Huntress and the grenade. Just barely, she managed to duck into a small snack booth, where she lay Huntress to get some well earned rest.

    ¡°I gotcha. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m here now.¡± Swipe soothed, taking a moment to treat some of Huntress¡¯s more serious injuries. ¡°Just try to stay calm for me. It¡¯s gonna sting a bit.¡±

    This earned a slight smirk from the usually stoic leader, slowly shaking her head.

    ¡°That¡¯s my line¡­¡± she protested weakly. ¡°We need to retreat¡­ regroup¡­ He¡¯s stronger than we thought¡­ We can¡¯t beat him¡­¡±

    Swipe sighed softly and shook her head. She could hear the beating wings as Black Dragon searched for her. ¡°We can¡¯t do that, mama. He¡¯ll only get stronger¡­ If we want to beat him, it has to be now. And I know I can do it.¡±

    ¡°Swipe, please¡­ He¡¯ll kill you¡­¡± Huntress countered. ¡°We can start over¡­ find somewhere safe¡­ Please¡­ I can¡¯t lose you¡­¡±

    ¡°... I know. But it won¡¯t last. He¡¯ll come for us eventually. I know he¡¯d kill me if he got a hold of me¡­ but I know I can do this.¡± Swipe reassured her, brushing a strand of hair out of her face.

    ¡°You saved me all those years ago. It¡¯s about time I returned that favor, don¡¯tcha think?¡± She teased, trying to keep the conversation light since she knew it may be their last. ¡°I just need you to believe in me¡­ Can you do that?¡±

    There was a long beat of silence, only interrupted by the occasional beat of Black Dragon¡¯s wings as he searched for his prey. Neither woman showed any weakness. Finally, Huntress nodded feebly, unable to stop Swipe anyways.

    ¡°I¡¯ve always believed in you¡­ and I always will¡­ Just be careful¡­¡± She relented reluctantly.

    ¡°I won¡¯t letcha down, mama.¡± Swipe promised before taking Huntress¡¯s weapons.

    ¡°Just gonna borrow these.¡± She assured with a wink, stepping out to face what would undoubtedly be the fight of her life.

    ¡°Hey, pinhead!¡± She shouted, immediately drawing his attention. ¡°Lookin¡¯ for someone?!¡±

    Black Dragon didn¡¯t bother to respond to Swipe¡¯s snide comments and immediately dive bombed her, spewing fire that ignited the grass along the sidewalks. Rolling to the side, Swipe¡¯s agility allowed her to easily evade the attack. She got up quickly and threw a dagger, which stuck into a chink in the fallen hero¡¯s armor. A pained snarl tore itself from his lips as he fell to the ground, wings unfurling just in time to catch himself.

    ¡°Not bad.¡± Black Dragon grumbled, pulling the dagger free and snapping it in two. ¡°I see Huntress taught you some tricks.¡±

    He lunged forward at mach speed with his wings slicing through the air, aiming to tackle Swipe to the ground and end things quickly. However, the catgirl was quicker and had just enough time to bring up Huntress¡¯s blade, deflecting the attack and sending Black Dragon tumbling off to the side. Swipe also staggered from the sheer force of the impact. She was good, but she was far from being on the same level as Huntress.

    ¡°I learned a thing or two.¡± She agreed, rushing toward her fallen opponent with a vicious leaping slash.

    The clang of steel on steel rang out as Black Dragon deflected the swing with his armored forearm. Rolling back to his feet, he landed a vicious uppercut and launched Swipe halfway across the park. Tumbling through the dirt, she finally managed to catch herself with her claws and skid to a stop. Huntress¡¯s blade embedded itself in the grass by her side.

    ¡°Alright.¡± She grumbled, wiping the blood off her lip. ¡°Lucky shot.¡±

    Swipe yanked the blade free from its resting spot and charged again, swinging wildly at her opponent. A wicked gleam shone behind Black Dragon¡¯s eyes. His victory was upon him and he could feel it. Deflecting each swing, he started to gloat.

    ¡°You can¡¯t do this forever, kitty cat.¡± He taunted, catching Huntress¡¯s sword by the blade. ¡°You¡¯ll fall soon enough. And when you do, I¡¯ll kill your whole team right in front of you. There¡¯s nothing you can do to stop me.¡±

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    Continuing to press the sword as if it would suddenly break through Black Dragon¡¯s grip, Swipe snarled and drew a dagger, stabbing at his face with wicked speed. While his reaction was swift, it wasn¡¯t fast enough to fully save him from the attack. A raspy scream escaped the fallen hero as blood splurted and oozed from the jagged hole where his eye used to be.

    Swipe pressed her advantage like a vicious wild animal, taking stab after stab, although none of them connected since Black Dragon was prepared this time. His iron grip on the blade of Huntress¡¯s sword tightened to the point the metal warped and he tossed it aside. With a pained snarl, he caught the dagger between his teeth and bit down, shattering the weapon like glass. Swipe, of course, was not unarmed and was quick to extend her claws for close combat.

    Her opponent, however, was having none of it. Rearing back, he spewed fire in all directions, forcing distance between them. Just barely able to outrun the inferno, Swipe ducked behind a tree for momentary cover. There was no escape, however, as Black Dragon continued to bellow his flames.

    ¡°... I¡¯m sorry, guys¡­¡± Swipe whispered to herself as her imminent demise slowly burned through the oak protecting her.

    Just before it could reach her, however, a rock hit the back of Black Dragon¡¯s head. Furious, he whipped around to find Huntress, barely on her feet, with another rock and a crude slingshot she had created moments earlier.

    ¡°This isn¡¯t over yet, Dragon.¡± Huntress declared raspily.

    Kraken, using an ice spear as a crutch, also rejoined the fight, a defiant glare cast to the hero despite the knowledge they couldn¡¯t win.

    ¡°We fight together.¡± He agreed, water swirling in the air around him.

    Zap was next, picking himself up out of the trash and limping over to the battle.

    ¡°No more running.¡± He added, electricity sparking weakly from his fingertips.

    ¡°This ends now.¡± Blaze chimed in, emerging from the building he had been hurled into. He was barely standing and his arm was still broken, but a flame flickered to life in his other hand.

    Black Dragon took a moment to watch the members of the Rogue Five as they prepared for this final confrontation. Finally, he simply shook his head and laughed.

    ¡°Yes, it does indeed. I¡¯m going to enjoy this.¡± He sneered, opening his mouth to once again shoot fire.

    ¡°NO!!!¡± Swipe wailed, flying out from her hiding place and latching onto Black Dragon from behind. Her claws dug into his wings, wrenching a scream from his throat once more.

    ¡°You miserable brat! I¡¯ll show you true power! Let you bask in your helplessness!¡±

    With a mighty flap of his wings, the fallen hero soared into the sky at breakneck pace, Swipe hanging on for dear life as the Rogues watched helplessly. There was no one to save Swipe now. She would have to do this alone.

    High above the clouds, where it was hard to breathe, Black Dragon finally managed to get a hold of Swipe, ripping her off of him and holding her out by the throat so she couldn¡¯t reach him. With a triumphant gleam in his eye, he reveled in watching her struggle.

    ¡°Do you see it now?!¡± He gloated, gesturing to the open air around them. ¡°See how pointless it was to defy me?! I¡¯m going to crush your throat and let your body fall to your friends! I¡¯ll watch their horror and laugh! Then, I¡¯ll burn them alive and Dilstone will be mine! No one will challenge me and my empire will grow! And there is absolutely nothing you can do to stop me!¡±

    As Swipe struggled to draw breath, she knew what she had to do. With a shaky hand, she pulled Huntress¡¯s grenade from her jacket. Black Dragon beheld the sight with a mix of dismissal and begrudging respect for her tenacity.

    ¡°Ah yes, the grenade. Go ahead. Blow yourself to bits hundreds of miles in the sky!¡± He urged, a sadistic cackle following close behind. ¡°My armor has been specially crafted to resist blasts and burns!¡±

    ¡°You won¡¯t leave a scratch on m-MMPH?!?!¡± He started to brag before being gagged by the grenade being shoved into his mouth. His eyes widened in horror as he realized what was about to happen.

    ¡°That ain¡¯t¡­ blast proof.¡± Swipe pointed out before pulling the pin and kicking away from him with all her might.

    Far below, Huntress watched helplessly as the pair disappeared into the clouds. Desperately, she turned to her team for any hint of a solution.

    ¡°Kraken! Use your water! Get me up there!¡± She ordered, only for him to shake his head.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, love.¡± He responded. ¡°I couldn¡¯t get water that high right now if I tried.¡±

    ¡°Blaze!¡± She shouted, turning to the fiery strongman. ¡°Use a fireball or something! Blast me into the sky if you have to! I don¡¯t care!¡±

    Blaze, like Kraken, shook his head.

    ¡°Boss, that¡¯d just kill ya. I can¡¯t do anything either¡­¡± he trailed off dejectedly.

    ¡°Zap?¡± Anna asked desperately, turning to the rookie. ¡°Something? Anything? Please¡­¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t have anything I could do either, ma¡¯am.¡± Zap responded softly.

    A massive fireball lit up the sky, high above the clouds, a grim seal on their friend¡¯s fate. A wailing sob tore itself from Anna¡¯s throat as she screamed into the heavens.

    ¡°SWIPE!!! NO!!! SWIPE!!!¡±

    In this moment, she was no longer Huntress, the fearless leader of a band of criminals. She was Anna Zimbardi; a desperate mother who had just had her daughter ripped away from her forever. Anna fell to her knees and wept as Kraken knelt by her side and pulled her into his arms.

    The citizens of Dilstone who had been trapped by who they once thought to be a hero, slowly emerged from their hiding places, looking into the sky in awe and mourning for the hero they never knew. Things would be different now that they owed their lives to a very different group of protectors.

    As Swipe fell, she found what was almost a sense of peace. It didn¡¯t matter that she couldn¡¯t feel her hand. The blood trailing away from her  and all over her seemed almost celebratory. She had done it. Black Dragon was gone. Her friends were safe. Her city was safe. It may have cost her life, but that was a price she had always been willing to pay for the rest of the Rogue Five.

    Just as she closed her eyes and accepted her fate, however, it felt like she got hit by a truck. A very feathery truck, but a truck nonetheless. Eyes flying open in shock, Swipe sputtered as she beheld the last thing she expected to see.

    ¡°Bella?!¡± She exclaimed in disbelief. ¡°But I thought you couldn¡¯t fly!¡±

    Bella giggled brightly, hanging onto Swipe with her talons while her wings were outstretched.

    ¡°I can¡¯t! But I can glide! Probably!¡± she answered cheerfully. ¡°Thanks for the lift, guys!¡±

    A few other harpies dove away, leaving Bella to slow the descent.

    ¡°Of course¡­¡± Swipe murmured. ¡°The remote. It musta been destroyed in the blast!¡±

    Far below, gasps and shouts erupted as Bella¡¯s stylish crash became inevitable and visible to everyone.

    ¡°Boss?¡± Blaze spoke, gesturing above him with his good hand.

    As Anna gazed up, she realized what she was seeing and sprang into action, directing her team with practiced efficiency. They were there to cushion the fall, leading to minimal harm for Swipe and her gliding backpack, Bella. Relief surged through the members of the Rogue Five as their youngest was safely returned to them. Huntress in particular, was quick to wrap Swipe into a tight embrace, terrified by the thought of losing her. Bella, pulled into this hug by proxy, was more than fine with it.

    A few months later, after countless rounds of treatment, The Rogue Five were watching Swipe¡¯s limb replacement therapy. She flexed the robotic muscles to absentmindedly wiggle her new fingers.

    ¡°So? What do you think?¡± Huntress asked, resting a comforting hand on her shoulder. ¡°Ready to see what we can do without all of Dilstone coming after us?¡±

    With a flick of her wrist, the claws extended on Swipe¡¯s mechanical hand. A familiar grin spread across her face, one that her team knew all too well.

    ¡°Oh yeah.¡± Swipe agreed, marveling at her new arm like it was the greatest thing to ever exist. ¡°Let¡¯s see what this baby can do.¡±

    The End