The Assassin and the Frog RPG

The moaning of passing cars and police sirens littered the streets. The eerie lighting of street lamps flickered as they just began turning on. The sun was just about to set behind the roughage mountain peaks of Montana. Talon was too preoccupied to witness the beautiful array of colors dancing upon the fluffy white clouds that hovered above the monolithic structures. Her mind was locked on thoughts of the events that would transpire the following evening. In truth ever since she had received his letter she had been running all over the American State searching for the perfect apparel. She had literally run herself ragged and now on an old park bench in one of Montana’s many national parks.

With her head bent low and sweat growing on her brow out of frustration the young emerald eyed assassin hunched over staring at the tiny grains of sand that strayed onto the side walk. Laura the moment she received the young heroes invitation her heart had been stirring with in her chest the whole while. Beating faster until this ultimate climax that in truth at this moment seemed to end in just a mere whisper. Though so many questions of why he was showing her such great kindness toward her bewildered the young girl. Running her tired and aching hands through her hair she let out a deep sigh as her lips parted licking her dry lips.“All I wanted was a dress!”she thought in mental anguish. She had searched high and low through every freakin’ state of this country.

She had faced world wars, villains that towered against her, death in its many incarnations ever the loss of a love one, but nothing compared to the fear running through her for what laid tomorrow evening. Charles, the young hero she had first rescued in vine city…started a ripple effects of not just getting the Boyscout into trouble, but also weaving both of their hearts to the ultimate conclusion that they cared more for each other than first anticipated. She cared for him…she loved him, but admitting that was actually harder than she thought. It had been ages since she found herself so deeply caring for someone, and the fear of losing this now love of her life was a fear that she tried to ignore. But the constant reminders of the many lost loves in her life weight heavy on her shoulders, and really was the one thing keeping her from fully stating the way she felt.

As the sun set so did her hope for any success on the mission she had embarked on at the beginning of the week. Finally she gathered the strength to lift her head as she glance to finally acknowlage that the sun had set.   Dozens of stars were in the darkened clear sky but the thing that attracked her sole attention was the ghostly almost full moon that seemed to be staring at her, taunting her.“You must find it funny…” she mouthed as her voice was silenced due to the scar across her neck. “Playing with my emotions…manipulating my desires!” As she continued her conversation with the celestial body she noticed a long spiral of light appearing in the sky as they danced, similar to search lights but in colors of silver and gold. Her brow rose curiously as she got to her feet dusting off the leaves that had fallen on her lap.

She was dressed in a casual torn pair of jeans and a blue shirt that had the American flag on it. Ever since she well had gotten to know War Killer she had expanded her wardrobe so it contained a more patriotic feel to it, than just simple black shirts. Slowly she began to stroll down the side walk out of the park before entering the city, as she turned on a corner she was slightly taken aback by the string of Limousines that passed by her. It was only then that a certain string of aromas filled her nostrils as she instantly realized something: The British were coming. Brits had a very distinct smell, especially the royalty. They usually retained the scent of old clothing…or antique furniture. Whichever the scent occurred first didn’t matter, what mattered was that the Queen was here.

Now if it had been normal neutral day with Wolf Pack the thought of possibly killing the Queen and leaving that little insignificant island in chaos would have entered the mind of the well misunderstood minor but as fate had it, she had….more diverse and creative Ideas for her little “tea date” with England’s so called “Queen.” Her claws were out faster than anticipated, her heart was pumping and adrenalin rushing as the car passed by. It was a tricky situation, so many eyes would be on her, and if she was able to be Identified? No! She wouldn’t….she’d be faster than these old Brit’s guards.

She only had one shot at this, honestly she hadn’t through it too well out. She could have obviously waited for the limo to make its stop but there’d be to many people, to much time she only had an hour before she would start to head back to Champions Base. On the corner as the vehicle turned it was then with the guards heads looking elsewhere she slid herself under it. Because it was in mild speed she managed to unleash her claws half way then jab them into the metal of the car. She had studied mechanics and was well aware of the location of the air pipes and exhaust. Then slowly and silently she slid herself where she would be likely under the boot. With carful precision she located a non lethal part where she could cut out a small hole. One done she retained the metal cutting and slid in.

The conversations in the car were all heard by her but she wasn’t paying much attention, what she was really listening for was the ground. She had a good map of this city and if she had it right they were headed straight for an intersection. Quickly and without say she stabbed through the flimsy metal of the car straight into the passenger’s seat, Like a torpedo she didn’t stop there she continued to break through the shaded glass until she managed to get into the drivers front. With a kick she managed to breath the door and sent it rolling along with the previous driver. Now calling the shots she got her foot on the gas pedal hands on the steering wheel as she made a sharp turn to the right.

Now driving swiftly to avoid getting caught she glanced back at the Senator of Montana and the queen with a friendly smile before turning her eyes back on the road. It took some maneuvering but eventually she managed to lose the cops that were tailing her. Now in the silence of the forest the car burnt out sat as Laura let out a deep sigh. “What…what is it that you want?” The Queen said her voice shaking. Talon didn’t have times for pleasantries as she glanced back at the two before getting out of the car. Slowly she walked around to the boot and sliced it open with her claws. Gladly the hole she made was too small for any of her majesties suit cases to fall through.

Glancing all around she picked up the first opened it and looked through it….she did really the same for the remaining 5 and now slightly disorientated she walked back to the driver’s seat and considered riding the car off the cliff…she wouldn’t mind seeing an explosion. “Didn’t even kinds and queens have proper clothing!” she thought annoyed. Yet still determined to fulfill her acceptance to Charles’ invitation she glanced back once more noticing what the queen was wearing right now. The elderly woman just stared at her in fear as she stuttered helplessly “Wh…what is it?”

Now some would call it unorthodox stripping a queen others would say its well….madness. Gladly Talon was known for both hence why doing the action really didn’t bother her conscious that much. Though she did have one regret glancing back at the burning car, the semi stripped queen and the unconscious Senator….through all the commotion she had lost a button. With her midnight blue hair draped across her face dirtied face she knew a shower was definitely in order. She now had 10 hours before the moment of truth and the preparation for it no doubt would probably end up being more painful than what she had to do now. Yet a renewed sense of purpose filled her as she strolled into the forest the dress neatly packed away in an emptied suit case. She’d probably hitch plane, fly it back to Champion Island, and the base and frame COP for doing it….you really never knew what to fully except from her when she was in this mood. But one way or another Talon was making that Date with War Killer whether the world would be in utter chaos by the time only time would tell.

Champion City, the apartment of War Killer and Eclipse:

A low haze of warm steam flooded the hallway of the two young heroes’ apartment as Charles quickly stepped out of the restroom and made his way down the hallway towards his room. Wearing only his only his underwear, he began to dry off his soaked brownish blind hair with a blue towel as made his way into his room. A bright glimmer of light quickly shined in through his room’s window as the setting sun slowly began to disappear beyond the earthly horizon, causing the droplets of water that literally his white muscular body to sparkly as he made his way across the room. Drying off his head with the towel, he threw quickly threw it onto his bed as he began looking through his closet, waking the purple little dragon know as Larry who was just moment’s ago resting peacefully at the edge of the bed.

Digging through his closet, the young hero began setting out what he was going to wear that evening, making sure he would look presentable enough for what was sure amazing night that lay ahead. For tonight was not like other Friday nights, normally Charles would be spending tonight with his best friend Eclipse as they watch the newest episode of Doctor Who or one of Charles’ favorite TV shows, Chuck, which they had recorded on their TV’s DVR early that week and had began watching them every Friday night; but not tonight, no because tonight Charles had a date.

Pulling his closet door open slightly more, he began looking at himself in the long mirror that stretched from the top of the closet door almost to the floor, as he began to think back to early that same week. The team was still readjusting after the whole Skrull invasion, but early that week the whole team had been interrogated by the government and about their involvement in the invasion itself, but in the end the whole team was shocked as their leader, Mistress Redhead had been taken into custody. Charles had spoken to Eclipse, as well as the rest of the leaders including MR’s husband, Sovereign Son and they’re was talks of some short of rescue mission, but as far as he knew nothing was set in stone yet.

Pulling his black dress pants on, he grabbed the towel once more as he began to dry off the water which was still dripping down his beaten and scared chest. Looking into the mirror, he couldn’t help but notice the large scar that now ran almost dead center down his chest from where he had been stabbed by a Skrull posing as one of his friends. The young hero rand his hand down the scar, sending a small spark off pain through his chest as he remembered the creatures sharp blade slicing through him. But he couldn’t help but smile as he also remembered seeing Talon come to his rescue. He began to chuckle now as he couldn’t help but count how many times she had already come to his rescue in the past, even though he had never really told her in person, he couldn’t help but think of her as his little angel, arriving just in the nick of time like she always seemed to do now.

Pulling a white shirt over the scar, he shook his head violently causing his hair to puff back up again as he continued what had happened. After the invasion, he had taken her to get medical attention, not leaving her side until the integration and was forced to leave her, but not before leaving her a note asking her out. Slipping his arms into a white dress shirt, he began to button it up. It was after the interrogation that he arrived back to where he had left her, but to his surprise she had seemingly already awoken and left. But apparently not before leaving their good friend, Nurse Jane with his note that he had left for her. As he finished the last buttoning up the last button of his shirt, he glanced over at his small desk which a little lamp rested on next to his bed, seeing the white little note that he had written to her as it laid there next to his bed. He grinned as he walked over by the small desk, picking up the letter seeing where Talon had literally kissed the “yes” check box, leaving lipstick printed on the piece of partly crumbled paper.

Making his way back over the mirror, he laid the note down next to Larry who handed Charles his black clip-on tie. “Thanks buddy.” He said with a grin, patted the little dragon on the head as he clipped the tie onto his shirt. Finally putting on his black dress coat, he looked into the mirror, brushing back his brownish blond locks as he took one finally glance into the mirror. He was now wearing a white dress shirt along with a black dress coat to go over it, matching with a pair of black dress pants, and ending it off with a pair of new blue sneakers. Making one last adjust meant as he straightened out his tie slightly, he smiled as he took one long look in the mirror. “I can’t believe I’ve really got a date with her tonight.” He said with a bit of surprise in his tone. Honestly he couldn’t believe that he was going out on a date with Laura Chabot, but it’s funny how fate works he supposed.

It wasn’t really that big of a surprise though, ever since she saved him, their lives had become more and more intertwined with one another, all the way to the point that he honestly would admit that he had fallen--“--Oh my gosh.” His body froze as his eyes widened as the mind registered it: He was falling in love with her! And suddenly it was like being hit by a semi-truck as his body fell backwards, crashing into his bed’s mattress, causing Larry the Dragon to suddenly jump up into the air to avoid being crushed as Charles’ eyes glared up at the ceiling as his whole body trembled with panic, “I—I think I’m in love with her.” He whispered as his voice crackled slightly, feeling butterflies in his stomach as he remained froze in complete and totally shock at the thought that he was actually falling in love with her.

“Hey, Charles! You home--” Suddenly Eclipse came walking into his room. Walking in on his crunches, Jason found Charles lying on his bed, “--Oh, I thought you would have already left for your date with, Laura?” Looking at the petrified look that had overtaken his friends face, Jason’s braw rose with suspicion, “Hey…what’s the matter?” Leaning up, his eyes still wide with shock, “I have a date with Laura tonight.”“Uh, I know ….and shouldn’t you be heading over to her apartment to pick her up right about now?” Jason replied. “Yeah…but—but what if I screw up?” Charles asked as he got up off the bed, his hair now messed up due to him running his hand through it. “Wait, what? What are you talking about?” “The date! What if I screw the date up?!” Suddenly the freaked out hero began to pace back and forth from one end of the room to the other, “I mean what if I do something to screw it up? What if I say something stupid? Or make a bad joke? Or still something on her dress? Or--”“Has he been doing this all evening?” Jason asked Larry who shook his head up and down as they then both continued to watch watched Charles slowly turn into a nervous wreck.

“Or what if I--!” “Do you care about her?” Jason said cutting Charles off from his nervous breakdown. “Wait…what?” Charles asked, obviously caught off guard by Jason’s response. “Do. You. Care. About. Her?”“Of course I do! But what does that--”“Do you want her to be happy?”“Well….yeah, but I still don’t see your point--”“Then stop worrying about it.” Suddenly Charles just remained silent as he knew Jason was right. Slowly getting to his feet, Jason placed his hand on his best friend’s shoulder as to reassure him that everything was going to be okay. “Look, you care about her and she cares about you. That’s all that matters. So what if you mess up or do something stupid, it’s your FIRST DATE! You’re bound to both get into a little trouble. But at the end of the night, no matter what goes down or what happens, just make sure she goes to bed with a smile on her face and that she dreams about this night all over again.”

Looking Jason in the eye, he let out a deep sigh as he knew he was right. “Now where are you taking her out to?” Jason asked. “I found this new restaurant in New York that I thought she might like, plus I figured with Champion City still being rebuilt after he whole Skrull craze I might as well get her away from everything and just let her enjoy a night without nay super-villains or random clans of ninja’s for once in her--” He said with a chuckle. “Alright then…” Jason then threw Charles the keys to his hover car, “….go give her a night she won’t ever forget.” Nodding his head, he made his way out the door but not before turning back to Eclipse as he said good bye, “Thanks, E.” And with that he was out the door.

Pulling out a comb as tried to fix his hair back, he knocked on the door of Talon and Cell’s apartment. Holding between his arms were a group of purple roses that he had picked out for her. But as he tried to comb his hair, he could feel the roses beginning to slip from underneath his arm, causing him to quickly try to catch them before they scattered out onto the floor, leaving the comb stuck halfway in his hair. But as he tried to pick up all of the roses as quickly as possible, his heart stopped as he heard the door open, not even daring to look up at her as he knew he looked like a totally fool now….

The evening winds pillaged the Champions Apartments, their high stacks of concrete spiraled into the air. It was a very sound structure to say the least, but it was also hollow. Due to the young Lycan’s ability of hearing she was able to hear whenever someone entered the apartment, despite the fact she was almost on the top floor. Brushing her hands through her hair she ran up the stairs to terrified to use the elevator system. She had been in to many missions gone wrong, to trust any electrical mode of transport within a building, escalators were the closest she’d get. She was one trapped in an elevator box for three solid days, she was buried under ruble and couldn’t get out hence the fear of the thing was a bit more than the young assassin could handle, but since transport as such was not necessary to be a member of Shadow Squad her fear really hadn’t hit the radar.

As her hand slid across the banister she swiftly scurried to her room, the scent of War Killer filled the hall hallway like sweet aroma. Honestly he smelled very well kept for such a young man on a tight schedule. He was prompt in most areas like personal hygiene, he didn’t get dandruff easily but there had been times where she noticed a slight almost microscopic build up of it. Now standing before her door she glanced back over to the dorm of Jason, and Charles. Her brow rose in curiosity as she placed her ear against it. “Laura what are you doing?” Talon nearly jumped as she regained her composure to discover Blair standing before her. Placing her hand on her chest she looked at her room mates for a few moments before shaking her head, and walking through her own door.

Blair, of all the girls how could she have gotten roped into rooming with her, the girl was a child! The fact that she some how managed to lead the Young Champions was beyond her. Though Talon had seen the young woman in battle and in leading roles, and did think her adequate, but not enough to want to live with her! “So where were you last night? Oh! Did you find everything for your date tonight!?” The excited expression on the winged girls face made Talon realized an excuse was required. Shaking her head positively she then turned toward the bathroom. Closing the door a sigh of relief filled her lungs as she removed her garments. The dress she had required the previous night was already in her room. She had made a stop by at the Apartments before going on to the Shadow Cave. The Juggling of three lives was tricky, but the masquerade was well kept.

Turning on the shower she positioned the dial for be on the right setting before she drew the curtain closed. Still standing in front of the mirror she stared at herself, but really at the scare that slit across her neck. Sliding her fingers across it she couldn’t help but have the memories of the instant flash before her eyes. She tightened her fist slamming it against the before leaning her forehead against the mirror. “Hero.” Her lips moved but the words didn’t come out. Swallowing she shook of the feeling of nostalgia and soon walked toward the shower and entered it. But not even a second after her body hit the blast of water from the shower head did she literally dashed out. Her wed body shaking now doused in freezing cold water. As she attempted to regain her composure she happened to slip on the tiled floor and her back rammed into the ground.

Then a knock occurred on the door, followed by CPG’s nervous voice “Oh yeah Laura I had a shower just now so the water is probably still cold.” The young assassin bared on the floor just stared up at the ceiling, her body in utter agony and freezing cold. As the water dripped from her naked flesh to the white tiled floor the thought of how to kill Blair came swiftly. She would break through the door grab the girl by the throat stab her in the back and throw her out the window….yes that would work. Leaning upward she pulled her slightly damp hair out of her eyes as she glared at the shower that might as well have tried to kill her. Sliding her hands across her bare thighs she gained the strength to finally get to her feet.

Cautiously she walked toward the closed window which had curtains drawn upon it for privacy reasons. Though Talon as many things she was she liked the light, in her life there was enough darkness the light was something she enjoyed spending time with even for a moment. Pulling aside the curtain the whole room was flooded with the shimmering of sun light. Her whole body glistened as water droplets dripped off the tips of her fingers that laid at her side.  Her upper body then started to dry as the rays of sun gleamed off her chest. Flicking her hair she walked back toward the sink before running the water and splashing her face a little. Now fully composed she took one more look at the Shower of doom, cleaning herself was not really an option at this point. She was going to have to shower, even if it was to be her last.

A hour later, an almost blue Talon emerged from the bathroom. Her teeth chattering as her whole body was littered with goose bumps. Breathing in deeply she was glad that Blair was not here, for if the young girl was she’d no doubt be dead. As she made her way bare footed across the living room she couldn’t help stop at her own door again. Tying the towel across her upper body and letting it hang she slowly pushed her door ajar. Peeking through the small gap her eyes once again laid on the dorm of her two dear friends. For a reason beyond her she pushed the door open and was now standing in the hall way once more. Her emerald eyes focused on the door as her attempted to place the palm of her hand on it.

Yet like a reoccurring nightmare the voice of Blair rung through her senses. “Laura….what are you wearing?” Talon glared at the young girl, it was astonishing that she couldn’t even distinguish a towel from human skin. Laura would have replied in some formal gesture but instead found herself being dragged by Blair back into her own room. Once the door shut she found herself being glared up and all she could muster was a puzzled reply.”Laura! You have a date in like an hour and your still in a towel!?” shrugging her shoulder she turned back to her room until she found Blair’s hand tight against her wrist, with that same astonished look in her eyes. “Wait! What are you wearing!?”        

Letting out an annoyed sigh she lead Blair into her blackened room before turning the lights on to reveal exactly her attire for the evening. The girls eyes went big a moment as she then glanced over to Laura while blurting out. “Where in the world did you get that!?” Talon humbly shrugged shaking her head, and with a friendly push escorted her room mates out of her room. With the door shut she leaned her back against the door before glancing over to the clock. Taking in a final deep breath she walked over to her desk before turning on her MP3 player that she had linked into speakers in the corners of her room. Talon was often misjudged, just because she was a trained weapon didn’t mean that she was totally alien. While the son “Bleeding love” played in general volume she removed her towel and looked at the dress once more. Could she really get through the night in one piece?

Clutching the dress tightly she pulled it toward her bare chest as a tear slide down her check before a smile curled upon her lips. With that she discarded the undermined fears as she slid the dress on following with the brushing of her midnight hair as it rested upon her shoulders. Finally she walked over to her closet and pulled out a pair of black high heeled shoes and slid them on. Now staring at herself in the mirror she let out a deep only knowing how long she’d be able to keep up all these secrets. But her thought were swiftly interrupted with a knock on the door that instantly caused her heart to jump. She froze a moment thinking maybe CPG would get it, but alas her roommate was giving her the center stage.

Taking in a deep breath she exited her room and found herself standing before the front door. Her heart raced as she had no Idea how she’d act what she’d do what she’d say…oh wait she couldn’t say a word. Finally brushing her hair aside and putting a smile on her face she turned the knob only to find herself answering the door for the mail man. Clenching her teeth she glared at the man who now currently had a petrified stare on his face. Laura’s eyes finally lowered to a letter that had hand in his shaking hand. Ruthlessly she pulled it out and slammed the door in his faced followed with punching the wall. Officially humiliated she went to sit on the couch running her hands through her hair relentlessly.”Cool it Laura.” She thought to herself, this was only a date there was no assurance of anything that would follow this one night stand.

Laying on the couch she stared up at the ceiling a moment thinking back to how she met the young her. It seemed like so much had happened since then most people would have given up already but not Laura, she still desired that fairy tale ending. Maybe she was stupid maybe she was just too dumb to see the truth that she was a weapon and weapons like her never had happy endings, but despite hearing those words over and over in her life she had chosen to be rebellious. And each and every one of her rebellious acts hand ended in the dead of those she loved, and a part of her heart turning to ash.

Yet as her thoughts continued to swirl around in her full mind the knocking on the door once again caused her whole world to stop. Rolling her eyes she wasn’t going to go into total freak out state, so casually getting to her feet she took in a deep breath she swiftly swung the door open. Her eyes for a moment found nothing particular to star at except the door across from her own. Leaning forward she glanced down both directions of the hall way to find no body in either of them. For a moment she was very puzzled as she attempted to take one step but that soon resulted hitting her foot against something. Her eyes fell to the ground to find what appeared to be the frozen figure of her date.

Smiling slightly she noticed bouquet of roses that he held tightly in his hands. Crouching down so that their eyes met she moved her fingers to his chin pushing his head up so he could look into her eyes. When he finally did she smiled lightly at him, until she noticed the comb half way stuck in his well rural hair. Her brow rose in curiosity as she grabbed his free hand and brought him back to a standing position. Shrugging slightly a thoughtful expression showed on her face as she made the number one with her finger then reentered her apartment, suggesting that he stayed put. It wasn’t long before she returned with her own comb stuck into her hair which in truth matched her red silk dress perfectly. It had no sleeves simply wrapped around her chest and was very tight clinging to her breast. She had a blue toned shawl that wrapped around her shoulders sliding down her arms a bit. It draped under and around her curves till tucking into the top of her dress just between her breasts. The was quite long sliding down to her angles but it was easy to walk with. 

Having no intentions in saying any longer, incase Blair appeared out of nowhere like she always managed too. Taking his hand in her own she shut the door behind her and finally stared into his deep emerald eyes. He was adorable, his heart rate was quite accelerated but she didn’t need her sense to tell her he was nervous, for in truth she was equally scared. Letting out a deep sigh she stared at him a moment with her right brow raised in curiosity she was letting him make the moves. Too often did she drag him along, tonight she would let him do the dragging, and see what plans he had for her. She trusted him judgment and knew he was a very creative young man. She only hoped that her lack of speech wouldn’t make the night awkward. 

His body froze in complete and utter fear as she stood before him, his eyes closed shut as he knew that he must have looked like a fool to her now. Not daring to look up, he continued to stay frozen in that knelt position, waiting for her to simply walk back inside and shut the door. But as he felt his chin being slight pulled upwards, his eyes slowly opened to find themselves staring into her beautiful emerald green gems that glittered under the hallway lighting. His eyes continued to stare deeply into her own as she then gave him a light smile, and as she did, all his worries and fears suddenly disappeared just like that as he continued to be seemingly in traced by her beautiful face; her rosy cheeks along with her pretty eyes, her gorgeous eyes, and her lushes blue hair that flowed gracefully down the side of her head, just barely brushes against her cheek.

Pulling him back onto his feet, she then held up her hand, gesturing him with her index finger to hold where he was as she retreating back into her apartment. Moments later, she returned but now with a comb of her own sticking out from the side of her hair, reminding him of the comb that he had completely forgotten that still remained stick out of the side of his hair as well. As he saw this, he couldn’t help but start to blush out of embarrassment, he must have looked like a goofball to her. As he blushed, his eyes fell upon the roses that he was holding, “Oh! Um…yeah, uh, t-these are for you.” He said in a nervous tone as he handed her the purple roses. Taking the roses from him, he was caught off guard as she leaned forward, kissing him on the cheek as she took the roses from his hands and quickly returned to her apartment once more leaving him, his cheeks blushing even more red than before as his hand slowly brushed against the cheek her warm lips had just caressed.

He began to smile as she returned once again from her apartment, her cheeks blushing rosy red as she stood before him once more. Noticing her laces untied on her shoes, she quickly leaned down to fix them, picking herself back up as she then brushed her hair out of her face, revealing that nervous, but still lovely smile to be seen. Seconds soon past as they simply stared at one another, their eyes locking onto the others before Laura’s brow rose, giving him the impression that she was finally ready to go. Still smiling awkwardly, he put his arm to his side, allowing her to place her arm around his as he then lead her gracefully down the hallway. Making their way to the end of the hall, he started to lead her towards the elevator, only to feel her nudging him towards the stairs as she gave him a slight glare, “Um….I guess we’re taking the stairs?” He said with a slight smile, leading her past the elevator as he then opened the door, allowing her to enter into the stairway.

It didn’t take them long to reach the lobby of their apartment, leading her out to the front of the building they found his blue Pontiac Solstice parked out in front of the building. Opening the door for her, he then slowly shut it as she seated herself inside the vehicle before then quickly making his way to the driver’s side. Taking a seat behind the steering wheel, he buckled up his seatbelt as he started up the engine. And with a flip of a switch on the dashboard, the car instantly began to rise off the ground, the wheels turning themselves inwards towards the rest of the car as small blast of propulsion slowly caused the car to lift even higher into the air, rising just above the roof of their apartment. “Ready to go?” He asked her with a smirk on his face as he looked over at her, before then pressing the throttle, causing the whole vehicle to then glide off into the clouds.

As the car flew through the air, rising high above the clouds so that it was if they were riding on a wave of heaven’s ocean, he couldn’t help his eyes from staring over towards her. But as he did, they fell upon the scar on her neck, reminding him that she couldn’t talk. Which in truth he wasn’t really bothered by, it wasn’t her fault, he just hoped that she didn’t feel uncomfortable about it or think that it was putting a damper on the evening; and she was, he would just have to find a way to show her that it wasn’t. His eyes then slowly began to look downwards looking at her lovely figure, only to then rise up to her face. But as he did, he found her eyes looking over at him, causing his head to jerk back to where he was now looking forward once again, his cheeks blushing slightly again out of embarrassment. “Oh, um, sorry…I, uh, I didn’t mean to stare….I was just--Oh hey, look! It’s a radio!” He shouted nervously as he quickly turned the radio on.

But as he did, his eyes grew wider as he heard the words playing, “…Your hair is dancing in the wind, your eyes are burning up my skin….You are my light in the dark, you are the beating in my heart…You’re my angel in the night--” Quickly he then turned the radio off as he began to blush even more now, “Um…yeah. Sorry about that, uh…um…that was an accident and, well uh, I--” But as he continued to ramble on awkwardly, his eyes glanced over to look at her, only grow wide as he found the bright light of the moon shining through the front window, causing Laura’s dress to glimmer in the moon light as her emerald eyes lit up brightly as well, “Wow, you look….you look beautiful tonight, Laura.” E said as he could tell that he was blushing even more now.

Which in truth she was very beautiful; he couldn’t help but notice how gorgeous that dress looked on her. How nicely its red fabric clung to her body, completing her lovely form nicely, as well as showing her beauty off brilliantly. How it matched her curves for curves, running up her body elegantly all the way to her breast which were covered with pretty blue shawl that was perfectly wrapped around her upper body. Really if he had to be truthful with her, he would say that he was turned on just by looking at her. Blushing even more obviously now, he forced his eyes forwards again, keeping his mouth shut.

About an hour later, they soon arrived in New York City, a place Charles was very familiar with due to growing up in his world’s New York as a child. Gliding the car down from the sky, maneuvering between the buildings, he flipped another switch on the dashboard, causing the car’s tires to unfold as the vehicle landed onto the street. “We’re here.” He said with a grin on his face as he unbuckled his seat belt and quickly made his way to the passenger’s side, opening the door for Laura as he then held out his hand to help her out. He had parked them right outside of the new restaurant he had heard one of the other Champions talking about, “ Le clair de lune”.

Holding out his arm like before, he slowly lead his beautiful date in through the doors of the building and into its wonderfully decorated lobby area. “Bienvenue sur Le clair de lune. Avez-vous une réservation avec nous ce soir? [Welcome to The Midnight Moon. Do you have a reservation with us tonight?]” a male waiter asked, speaking with a French accent. “ Oui , il devrait être mis sur Barnes , Charles Barnes . [Yes, it should be under Barnes, Charles Barnes.] ” Charles said as he began to speak French as well. Checking his list, the waiter looked back at He and Laura, “Ah,M.Barnes,table pour...deuxpas? Bon, le droit de cette manière s'il vous plaît. [Ah, Mr. Barnes, table for…two correct? Alright, right this way please.]” The waiter said as he then escorted them to their table. “Votre serveur sera juste avec vous dans un instant , s'il ya quelque chose que je peux faire pour aider , vous et votre date de beau ici soir mieux, s'il vous plaît faites le moi savoir . [Your server will be right with you in a moment, if there is anything I can do to help make you and your lovely date here’s evening any better, please let me know.]”“ Je vous remercie , mais je pense que nous serons bien pour le moment . [Thank you, but I think we’ll be fine for now.]” And with a slight nod and smile, the waiter made his way back over towards the lobby.

Looking at the menu that were placed in front of them on the table, Charles look up at Laura with a smile, “Hey, before we order anything I just wanted to make it clear that this is your night. If at any time you start to feel uncomfortable, just let me know and we--” But as he began to finish, he suddenly felt a striking pain in the pit of his stomach. Pushing his chair back slightly, he began to clutch his chest with his hand. “Ugh, sorry. But could you excuse me for just a moment.” He said with a bit of strain in his voice as he quickly got up from his chair and headed towards the restroom. Making his way into the restroom, still clutching his stomach he made his way over towards the sink. His body leaning against the mirror as he continued to feel sharp pains in his running rampant with his chest. But after a few seconds, they slowly faded as quickly as they came.

“Come on, Barnes…” He began to tell himself as he turned the sink on, filling both his hands with a puddle of water as he then splashed his face a few times, “…pull yourself together man.” Looking into the mirror, he looked at his reflection. He couldn’t deny that he was nervous, but he couldn’t be this nervous could he? Sure, he had never really gone out on a date before, but he’s dodged bullets with this girl…so why is having a nice dinner with her so hard?! He began to wonder to himself this, but as he did, he could feel himself becoming a bit dizzy. Looking at his reflection as it started to become disordered and wavy as he then fell backwards to the floor.

Moments later, his eyes slowly started to open as the room finally stopped spinning. “Uhhhh…what happened?” He thought to himself as he looked up at the ceiling. “Feels like I just got hit in the head by a baseball bat…” Looking, he was confused as he found the sink he was just standing before much taller now, “….wait, how did the sink get so, tall?” He wondered as he got to his feet, now rubbing his aching head. But as he began to look around, he suddenly started to realize that it wasn’t everything else that had gotten bigger….but that instead it was he who had gotten smaller! “Wait….what!” He thought as he quickly looked at his hands, finding them now green and slimy. “Oh no….no, no, no, no.” He thought as he ran towards the sink, leaping up to where he was now standing next to the sink, which to him was now the size of a small swimming pool. “You have GOT to be kidding me…!” He thought as he looked into the mirror, seeing the green slimy skin that now covered his whole body, along with he green webbed feet and hands, quickly realizing the shocking truth, “I’VE BEEN TURNED INTO A FROG!!!”

Seconds ticked by but truthfully it felt like time was at a standstill. War Killer stood before her, brave and bold star spangled hero who had fought bravely for his country, team and friends, and now he was taking the world’s most deadly assassin on an evening of pleasure. The most she could deduct from this moment was that at least by the end of the night if he had to lack something it certainly would be his shining reputation. Brushing aside her hair she smiled slightly as her brow rose in curiosity as to why they were not moving. Watching him snap out of his gaze caused the emerald assassin to shake her head, honestly fate couldn’t have made things more awkward.

Sliding her hand around his arm her escorted her toward the elevator, which instantly on realizing this she stopped dead in her tracks. Her heart raced slightly on due to her childish phobia of Elevators itself. It was silly she knew this but ever since her Wolf Pack mission where she spent several days with in the metal mouth of this machine she really had started to become very claustrophobic. Pulling on his arm her jade eyes gazed at him a moment glaring as she really didn’t know how else to express her undesired to take that infernal machine down. “Um….I guess we’re taking the stairs?” He said slightly bewildered but she didn’t except anything else, even if she could speak she wouldn’t have told him she had a fear like that, it was silly and no doubt he would find it amusing and laugh at her.

It didn’t take the teen couple long before they managed to make their way down the stairs into the lobby. It was a strange thing the lobby, since most of the time Talon either jumped out her window or well used the helicopter pad on the roof, never really taking the care as to coming all the way down. Being the gentleman he was he got the door for her and not desiring to cause conflict she seated herself. She had never been in his hover car before it might have seemed strange considering she did help build it but really she found no need for it. Buckling herself in she took in a deep breath as she watched him enter the vehicle before starting up the car. She was nervous and because of that her hand was slightly trembling. She had never been on any official date before, it was just sex in a hotel room no real romance or glimmer of affection, this all new for her and slightly scary.

“Ready to go?” His voice snapped her out of her daze as she realized that they were already hovering several feet off the ground. Glancing out her window, very impressed she was knda astonished that the two of them had built this. Considering her short patience and him constantly being distracted it was amazing that they hadn’t torn each other to pieces before they even decided on the color. When she finally reached the conclusion that they wouldn’t fall into the ocean due to the manufacturing faults, her eyes glanced over to her driver. Slightly a back as she followed his stare she looked at him curiously. On making eye contact once more her jerked back focusing his eyes on the sky “Oh, um, sorry…I, uh, I didn’t mean to stare….I was just--Oh hey, look! It’s a radio!” He blurted out as he began playing with the dials.

Curiously she watched as his whole faced seemed to light up with embarrassment. on the hearing of the lyrics of the song that was playing. She silently chuckled before biting her lower lip, not wanting him to feel out of place or embarrassed at all. Frankly she found it cute. “Um…yeah. Sorry about that, uh…um…that was an accident and, well uh, I--” He paused in mid sentence as he just stared at her. Not knowing how to reply she diverted her eyes with a shy like smile curling upon her lips. “Wow, you look….you look beautiful tonight, Laura.” As she heard him say that her eyes slowly rose to meet his and replied with a deep star and a warm smile, wishing she could say more but having to be content with this for now at least.

Time flew by swiftly as before she knew it they were back on the ground. They were in New York City she could hear the buzzing of street lamps, and engines of cars as she could smell several expensive varieties of caviar, and Champaign. Not that she had either often but she had spent her time among the higher monarchy. Opening the door for her she saw her handsome date extend his hand toward her. Taking in a deep breath she pushed her nervousness aside as she devoted herself to having a good time.  Locking her arm with his, she looked around admiring the posh décor of the restaurant that Charlie had chosen. As they entered into the nicely heated lobby she felt very out overwhelmed. Sure she had been to many exotic, and presidios dining areas for assassination attempts, bomb settings and even food poisonings but just to actually have a good time, never.

But her admiration of his fine choice in location was cut off as she heard a man speaking in French address War Killer. Her eyes were on him as she couldn’t reply and wasn’t exactly sure how to translate what the man was- but before she could get any further, the language of love was spoken by none other than Charles Barnes himself. She did her best not to stare but really she couldn’t help it, she watched as the young teen hero spoke….not just spoke but fluently communicated with the waiter about the reservation, the night and the table they were assigned. Her mouth was agape as she quickly shut it before breaking into a near blush. She had certainly underestimated him to say the least, he was….superseding her first impression of himself which was very unique.

They were seated at the designated table and Laura slowly slid her red dress in the appropriate position so she could seat herself comfortably. Getting herself comfortable Charlie began to speak “Hey, before we order anything I just wanted to make it clear that this is your night. If at any time you start to feel uncomfortable, just let me know and we--” but then mid sentence once more her stopped. She noticed the buildup of sweat on the brow as she gave him a concerned stare. “Ugh, sorry. But could you excuse me for just a moment.” He said as she noticed he was cringing slightly. Still worried she nodded her head and watched him exit for the bathroom. Sitting in her chair she waited a few moments but he didn’t return. Eventually she was getting worried and just before she got out of her seat she was approached by one of the waiters.

“Is everything to your liking madam?” Trying to gain her gaze, since her emerald eyes were focused upon the bathroom door. “Miss?” He said once more. Snapping out of it, she turned to look at him sing that he was one of the waiters. Slowly her hands slid under the table as her claws slowly unsheathed. Then with in a second her right hand grabbed the crimson table cloth pulling it from the table as she wrapped it around his right arm, her claws cut through his left wrist and dug themselves into the wall pinning him there. Letting out a cry of pain she looked deeply into his eyes a moment before unleashing her foot slammed on his as she held onto the table cloth that was now keeping his other free hand at bay. With that she released her claws and jabbed her shoulder into his neck rendering him unconscious.

Breathing heavily a moment she wiped the blood off her claws while she breathed deeply. He didn’t speak French, all the men in his establishment spoke French only, and he spoke with an English accent. Turning she realized all eyes were on her, while police sirens could be heard coming down the street. Moaning in annoyance she swiftly darted off toward the restrooms, one good thing about the French they had no backbone, they wouldn’t fight her, that’s what the American Police were for and the bad thing about them was, In NYC, she was a wanted fugitive. Many times had she rubbed shoulders with the Police Inspector and she really didn’t want to face him, especially when mute.

Now standing in front of the door that lead to the men’s rest room she could hear the police cars pull out to the front as the flashing lights danced in the darkness outside. At first she thought she’d knock but because of time she disregarded that suggestion and entered the bathroom. Taking in a deep breath she turned to face the handle as she severed it and bent the metal creating a makeshift lock. Resting her back against the door she slid to the floor her head bent in disappointment. “Of all the no good, confounded, idiotic, supercilious….” She whispered under her breath her anger rising. Yet all her thoughts were suddenly caught off as she heard her own voice echoing off her ear drums.

Swiftly getting to her feet she slid her hand across her neck only to discover that her scar was gone. “Charles…we have to get out of here“ she said slightly absent minded but trying to regain her composure. Her emerald eyes slowly lifted from the floor as she walked deeper into the men’s bathroom. “Sorry for the intrusion but we have a slight-“ Her sentence was cut off as she found herself face to face with an amphibian. Rubbing her temples she let out an irritated sigh “What the health department would say…” she mumbled but her awkward encounter was cut off with the banging of Police officers  on the door. “Open up!” she could hear them shout. It didn’t take the emerald eyed assassin long to discover that War Killer was no longer within the vicinity, even though she had not seen him exit, or picked up his scent he was no longer here, and that worried her.

“Open the Door!” They persistent banging continued as she let out a deep sigh before unleashing her claws she slicing off the bottom of her dress making its length that of a mini skirt. Tying back her hair with the severed fabric into a pony tail she entered one of the bathroom stalls before hitting one of the roofing panels off that lead to a ventilation shaft. Standing onto of a toilet she removed her shoes, and with the remaining fabric she formed a belt and wrapped her shoe straps around it. Turning her eyes back on the floor check something she saw the same little green frog staring up at her. Slightly freaked out she tried to ignore it as she lifted her leg and crawled into the air shaft. It was very minutely spaced but due to her enhanced flexibility she could manage.  

Turning herself around so that she could close the roofing up she let out a gasp as the same frog was attempting to climb into the air system. The banging on the door grew louder as she had no doubt that in moments time the room would be filled with officers. “What do you want!” she finally asked with a perplexed expression on her face. She couldn’t believe she was at an actual point of desperation that she was trying to communicate with a frog. “Ugh…never mind.” She growled grabbing it by its belly and placing it on one side before reaching down for the roofing tile she had removed and forcing it shut. Her jade eyes moved up once more to meet the stare of the green little frog. “Shoo!” she hissed hearing the door brake below her. The frog didn’t make any sound as she ran rubbed her forehead before “I can’t leave you here can I? You might know something…” She whispered. “Oh! Fine…I’ll get you out of here but you’re not staring at my butt the whole time!”  She said before grabbing it again and placing its slimy body on her back as she slid through the shaft.

It was several minutes later before the two emerged from the air pipes into the neighboring alley way. Crawling awkwardly out of the hole she finally managed to place her feet on firm ground. Putting the frog on a nearby trash can she brushed off the dust from her now torn dress. “I need help.” She whispered her eyes wandered down the alley way both sides attempting to hopefully catch a glimpse of the star spangles hero. Clenching her fist she could hear the voice of police of coming around the corner. Swiftly she ran off into the darkness. Honestly she looked like a hooker as she put her shoes back on her feet, the good thing about these high heeled footwear was that foot prints was no option. Sniffing the air continuously she desperately began searching for any scent of the young hero who seemed to disappear into thin air.

Eventually after what seemed an eternity of searching the perimeter and avoiding the police, the young mercenary pulled one of her contacts and scheduled a meeting with her. She was hooker, a friend of Laura’s. Last time she had seen her was when she woke up in the care of the young hero War Kill in that motel room several months ago, how that seemed like years now. Once again she came upon the broken door that she had literally shattered on her last visit, but this time she knocked. The young blond, blue eyed girl answered the door with shock on her face. “Oh gosh…Laura…you knocked” she said with a joking smile. Shrugging Talon grinned back and entered the apartment making herself at home, before she prepared once more to go out and search the city for her lost hero. 

Suddenly, a shrieking scream could be heard. “What in the world?” The green skinned patriot wondered as he hopped off the sink to the floor…. “Are you serious?! I can’t even WALK now!” Frustrated, the little frog hopped near the door, placing his hands on it as he began to puss the door open. But as he did, the door quickly opened from the other side, slamming into Charles, sending his slimy little body sliding across the floor and under one the restroom stalls. “Okay…Ow.” He thought, rubbing his head as he picked himself up off the floor. Looking up, he found himself standing next to one of the toilets, being reminded of how small he now was. “Charles…we have to get out of here” His heard quickly turned towards the sound of her voice. “Laura..?” He thought in surprise. “Sorry for the intrusion but we have a slight-”Looking up at her, he found her eyes staring down at him surprised. “Uh, yeah….let me explain.” He thought to himself as he looked up at her with an awkward grin on his face.

“Open the Door!” A knock could be heard at the door as a man’s voice could be heard shouting from outside. Looking up at Talon, he watched as she began to slice part of her dress off, as the pieces of cut fabric land on top of him as she quickly climbs onto the toilet, “Hey, I liked that dress…wait, where are you going? Laura, wait!” Hopping up onto the toilet, we hopped after her as she lifted her body into the ventilation system. “Where is she going?” He thought, as he thrusted his legs back, sending his small body up into the air, into the ventilation system as well. Pulling his tiny body up into the air system, “Would you please slow down for five seconds!” Turning his eyes up towards Talon, she looked back, finding him sitting there. “What do you want!” She shouted at him with annoyance.

“To be human again…duh!” He thought sarcastically. “Ugh…never mind.” She said as she picked him up, placing him to the side as she closed up the hole they had both just climbed through before turning back towards him. “Shoo!” She said as she stared down at him. Looking up at her with a dead stare in his eyes, “You shoo!” He thought, sticking his tongue out at her. “I can’t leave you here can I? You might know something…” He rolled his eyes as he heard her, “You have noooo idea.” Suddenly the sound of a door being broke down from below could be heard, most likely being whoever it was that was shouting before.

Crawling past him, he sat there and watched as she began to crawl away, “*Sigh*…Always on the move, are we?” She then glanced back down at him, looking at him with that same annoyed look still on her face, “Oh! Fine…I’ll get you out of here but you’re not staring at my butt the whole time!” She said, picking him up and putting him on her back. “But I like your butt…?” He sighed lightly as she then began to climb through the air ducks. It wasn’t too long before they made their way into the alleyway next to the restraint. Looking towards the street, he watched as police cars drove by, lights flashes along with sirens blaring. “Laura…what on earth did you do?” He thought, knowing that for the two minutes he was gone she probably killed one of the waiters because he spoke English or something like that.

She sat him on a trash can as she dusted herself off, noticing a small American flag sticking out of the garbage, “That’s it!” Quickly hopping over towards it, he began to wave it back and forth hoping that it would maybe catch her attention. But ignoring him completely, she began to search the alleyway, sniffing the air, most likely looking for him, knowing that she probably thinks he chickened out on her. “I need help.” She whispered quietly. Throwing the little flag down, his head hung in front of him as he sighed deeply, “Tell me about it…” But without a second thought, she swiftly took off down the alleyway, “Laura….wait!” He thought, quickly hopping after her.

Chasing her down the sidewalk, he found himself losing her as she began to slowly gain more distance on him…not to mention that hopping was much harder than it looked. “Laura! Please…wait….up…!” Slowing down as he began to run out of energy; trying to catch his breath, his eyes stayed fixated on her body as she began to move further and further away from him. “Great….now how am I going to catch up with--” Turning his head back, he was instantly hit bay a large bag as a woman rushed by him, not even noticing his tiny green body. Falling through the air, his body bounced against the cement sidewalk, rolling over a sewer drain and splashing into the marking waters below.

“And again I say…‘ow’!” Picking himself up out the disgusting sewer water, he began to climb up back onto the sidewalk. “Stupid lady, with her stupid bag, and the stupid sewers, with its stupid nasty water, and the stupid city, with its zero respect for amphibians!” He began to mumble in his head as he began to look down the street, not seeing Talon anywhere now. “Oh great…now how am I going to find her now--?” But looking straight in front of him, he began to smile as he saw it lying right across from him, “Hehe, boo…”

Moments later, zooming down the sidewalk at raging speeds of….5 miles per hour! The citizens of New York City watched in amazement as before their very eyes, a little green frog zipped by them on none other than, a freakin’ skateboard! “..Yah! Bow this is what I’m talking about!” Kicking his little webbed foot off the ground, he continued to gain momentum as he flew down the sidewalk, the wind rushing past his body as people quickly jumped out of the way, both scream and pointing if surprise, shock, and utter confusing as Frog Killer skated past them all….now tearing up the cement at speeds of 6 miles per hour!

“So….you finally meet prince Charming…get your voice back…and you lose him on your first date?”   Lilia said with a joking smile on her face as she leaned her head back on the crouch. A glass of beer resting on the table as Talon sat across from her hunched over. Her midnight blue hair hung over her solemn faced as her emerald eyes searched with in her mind trying to piece together this enigma called War Killer. “Yes.” She said absent minded as she got to her feet letting out a deep sigh. Her eyes darted to the window as she glanced out the window of the 12 floor of one of the many buildings that littered NYC. She could see the car rushing by violently, people going somewhere having somewhere to go someone to meet, mean while Laura had nowhere to go and the one person she had met she had managed to lose.  

Pressing the palms of her hands against the clear glass she peered down at the 50 foot drop below her as despair consumed her like a cloud. “Chill girl you’ll find what’s his name.” Lilia said glancing at her trying to console her best she could, but the fact was when Laura was like this there was no getting her out of it. Now her jaded eyes staring out into oblivion Laura played her last moments with him over and over in her mind. She had photographic memory there had to be something she missed. Maybe she was endanger, and War Killer was black mailed faking the stomach cramp only to get away and fulfill whoever it was wishes. Maybe COP needed him urgently and he had left a note but it got shuffled in all the commotion. Maybe…Maybe…Maybe but nothing for certain.

“Where are you Boyscout…” she murmured her hot breath now fogging up the window. Taking a step back she wiped it away only to see commotion below. Her feral instincts kicking in her eyes flashed bright yellow as she continued staring down below, trying to get a lock on what was going on. She could see several people parting, some letting out cried of shock, but she couldn’t see what was causing it. Sliding the glass door open Laura stepped into the midnight cooling air as her eyes remained fixated below her. Sliding her hands upon the bester she leaned slightly forward trying to get a better look. “Laura be careful! I knows you got a healing factor and all but seriously this is taking it a little too far don’tcha think?”

Talon wasn’t listening her attention consumed her as the Lycan blood flowing through her began to race through her veins. Her heart began pumping faster and faster, as her canines increased in size. She could finally see it, a green little object seemed to be upon a skate board, and steering it as well. Her breathing became heavier as she felt some kind of connection but couldn’t be sure what it was. As she continued watching her heart skipped a beat as she realized that the little green thing was about to hit a head on collision with a nearby car on the road. She didn’t have time to think she just acted. In one swift movement she leapt off the banister leaving Lilia to faceplam the young immature assassin’s actions.

Laura’s body soared through the air as she dug her claws into the slid of the building to sloe her fall. Her midnight blue hair was tossed aside by the wind as her bright yellow eyes seemed to glow in the moonlight. Eventually now only a few feet away from the ground she spiraled into the air spinning before landing upon the vehicle that was headed into a collision with the small green object. Making a dent on the hood on impact the driver freaked finding the teenage assassin pirched on it. Digging her claws into the roof to anchor her she leaned over the side slicing the left hand tire causing the car to swerve to the right.

With that done she grabbed the man inside the car through the hole she had made in the roof and leaped forward landing several feet safely away from impact. The man shaking in his boots staggered to his feet and took off running, the car combusted into flames and Laura stood there on the ground brushing her hair out of the was as she straightened what was left of her torn dress. Letting groan ignoring the glares and stares from the public she turned her eyes to the little green creature that was seated upon the back of the skateboard and staring right up at here. Placing her foot on the front of the board she stepped down upon it which caused the back to jolt up which propelled the frog into the air and into the palm of her hand.

Letting out a deep sigh she held him in her hand as she picked up the skateboard and slowly walked into the park beside them, which happened to be central park. After walking deep enough into the shadow dancing woodland she sat herself down on a bench placing the frog on the ground beside it. Leaning over again she ran her hands through her tangled hair as her eyes slowly faded back to emerald. Slowly her breathing leveled as well and before long she was back to her same old self. “I need to find War Killer” she moaned rubbing the back of her head, from the obvious impact that falling several feet caused. Leaning back on the bench her arms resting on the sides she stared up at the crystal clear sky above. The twinkling stars littered the midnight blue blanket that hung perfectly in place. But out of the corner of her eye she could see the full moon’s dull light illuminating the wood.

Shadows dances, bird’s squawked and bushes rustled; yes central park wasn’t exactly the place you wanted to be at the dead of night. Gladly the police sirens, and car motors averted pure silence to fully take over.”What am I going to do with you.” She finally said turning her attention to the green frog who had hopped upon the bench beside her. It was sitting right there, staring at her with that cynical expression which made her think there was more to it that met the eye. “Twice in one day? That’s no coincident. Are you following me?” But just as she whispered that question she got to her feet sniffing the air. She could already feel that a squads of police had been unleashed too look for her, and she knew sitting here she was a dead duck. Her eyes started to fade slowly to yellow as her fist tightened her claws slowly unleashing. Yet just like that she blinked tightly and when her eyes opened they were back to their emerald, and her claws were back in her hand.

“Why did I save you.” Her gaze was back on the frog as she was slightly bewildered at her own actions. Leaping out of a building to save a small amphibian? It was unheard of! Letting out a deep sigh she extended her hand once more to the little green creature a serious look on her face. “Do you trust me?” Obviously it did, because it leaped into the palm of her hand. “Good….thing.” She said giving a nervous smile. With that she dashed off deeper and deeper into the wood, dead branches snagging on her already torn dress. Ignoring the scratches upon her arm she finally found herself in a much more concealed, yet darker location of the park. Finally she sat herself beside a little brook that ran through the park wetting her face.

Her scarlet dress still clung to her, and the blue shawl she had previously carried she now used to tie her hair back. She was still barefooted, but the little purple flower, that she had acquired from the bouquet  of flowers War Killer had given her was still somehow lodged in her hair. Slowly pulling it out she stared at the purple rose, and brushed its petals slightly. It was already starting to wilt, yet in truth it didn’t surprise Talon. What surprised her was that through everything she had gone through it was still here. “I’ll find you”. She whispered a single tear running down her bright red exhausted cheeks. With that she put it back in her hair and once more turned her attention to the frog beside her. “Alright Mr you chose the wrong night to tail me you know that?” She said in frustration getting to her feet. “I lost the one man I care about and I don’t even have a strand of evidence to tell me where he is. So unless you’re my dinner you better start contributing to my mission or else I can assure you I will eat you for dinner.”

Glaring down at the small frog she let out a sigh while rubbing her temples. By now Inspector Cain had probably made his men surround the area, and she could already hear MI6 helicopters that had taken air. She was trapped, and unless she figured a way out of this place soon she’d be the one eaten for dinner. 

The eyes of the little green creature opened widely as they looked forward as two blinding bright lights quickly made their way towards the powerless green frog as it sat helplessly upon the skateboard. With no way to get to safety in time, the little hero held his arms up, covering his eyes as he awaited to become road kill in just mere moments. But suddenly screeching could be heard, causing Charles to lower his slimy green arms; his eyes looking forward to find a young black hair girl perched upon the hood of the approaching car. “Laura…?!” The little frog thought in surprise as he continued to watch the young Lycan quickly pop her claws, slicing the front left tire of the car. Tearing the driver from his the driver seat, with her superhuman agility she leaped from the front of the vehicle as the car then swerved out of control, crashing into a tall street poll.

Letting the man go, he quickly ran off in fear. Turning his attention to the surrounding crowd who starred on at Talon in complete astonishment, he watched as she made her way in front of him, her eyes now bright yellow and her body in her more feral form. Putting her foot on the side of the skateboard he was resting upon, she swiftly pushed it down to the ground, using it as a catapult and sending the small frog flying straight into the air. “Hey! I…Am… Not... A... Flying… Frog!” He thought as his little green body flipped and spun in the air, until his slimy body came flopping down in the palm of Laura’s hand.

Picking up the skateboard, he felt as her hand clasped around his small body as she began making her way towards Central Park. He noticed she was moving deeper and deeper into the forest, most likely to get as far as way from the crowd or anyone who might have seen the incident, and thankfully the park was normally empty at this time of night. Finally she stopped running; sitting down on a nearby park bench as she sat him on he ground. “I need to find War Killer.” She moaned, rubbing the back of her head. “Hello, I am…” Charles began to think as he hopped up onto the bench next to her, but quickly realized that yelling it in his mind would be pointless at this point, “…oh never mind.”

Resting next to her, he noticed as her focus turned up towards the sky, her green emerald eyes sparkling brightly as the full moon’s light beamed down upon her, her eyes shining brightly like the stars high above. And as they looked up at the moon, it only made him realize how much he wish he could wrap his arms around her, his human arms, and just enjoy this beautiful night. He had to find a way to change back, to somehow find a way to get her to realize that it was him, to get back to normal, and to not miss these moments that they could be spending together!

”What am I going to do with you.” She said to him as she turned her attention from the stars and back down towards the little guy. “Twice in one day? That’s no coincident. Are you following me?”She continued to ask questions, and as Charles turned his attention towards her as well, his notice taking of the police sirens sounding off in the distance, he wished he could answer them for her. “Why did I save you.”She questioned him once more. “Because…wait, why DID you save me?” He began to ask the same question. Sure she saves him on and almost daily bases, but how did she know to save him? Why would she have saved a worthless little green frog if she didn’t know it was him?

But before either of them could ponder the question any further, the sound of a helicopter could be heard from up above, causing Charles to become a bit curious now. Why was there a helicopter looking for them, he understood the police, but it’s New York City, random people fall out the sky and crash on top of things every day, what made this so different? “Do you trust me?” He turned his attention back to her as she stood up, her eyes looking down at him as she held out her hand. “Always.” He thought, and with a smile on his face, he quickly hopped into her hand as they began to make their way even deeper into the moonlit park.

Coming to a stop just a few moments later, her hair clinging to her sweat drenched body, her once beautiful dress torn and now covered in leaves and dirt.  “I’ll find you.” She whispered as she began to take deep breaths after running so far. Looking up at her face, Charles could feel the annoyance building inside of his little body as he noticed a single tear begin to run down the side of her cheek. He wished he could simply place his hand upon her soft cheek and wipe the tear away with his thumb, to gently lift her face to where her eyes were staring straight into his, and so he could tell her that everything was going to be alright. But he couldn’t, he could do anything, he was in a useless frog body and was powerless to do any--“Uh…what was that?” He thought as he suddenly heard something moving behind Talon.

“Alright Mr you chose the wrong night to tail me you know that?” Randomly, she began to speak to him in frustration, not even noticing an armed man dressed in black moving up behind her. “Uh…Laura…baby..?” He needed to find some way to get her attention before. “I lost the one man I care about and I don’t even have a strand of evidence to tell me where he is. So unless you’re my dinner you better start contributing to my mission or else I can assure you I will eat you for dinner.”His eyes growing wide as the man aimed a gun at the back of her head, “LAURA LOOK OUT!” Without warning, he leaped forward, jumping off her shoulder and onto the gunman’s face, “What the--?” The gunman shouted as the slimy creature slammed into his face, causing him to stumble to the ground backwards.

Thinking quickly, Charles spat his long tongue out, grabbing a hold of it as he began to swiftly wrap it around the man’s neck, tightening its grip, causing the gunman to squirm and jerk back and forth as the air to his lungs began to get cut off.  Within seconds the man stopped, slurping his long slimy tongue back into his mouth, the little green Champion rested on to of the gunman’s dead body, “No one messes with my girl!” He thought as he sat on the man.

Looking back at Talon, he saw as her eyes were locked onto him, shocked at what she had just saw, which in truth made him begin to hope that would be a pretty darn good sign. But before she could even say anything, more men could be heard moving around, moving through the branches, most likely trying to block them in. Looking over by the bench, he noticed a sewer hatch right under the bench they were sitting on. Not wasting any time, War Frog quickly hopped over to it, “Come on, Laura. We need to get out of here now!” He thought, trying to get her attention as he began to point at it so they could make their escape.

  Was he even listening….she was talking to a frog for heaven’s sake he wasn’t supposed to be listening, these were the thoughts as the little green frog jumped off her shoulder. Running her hair behind her ear the emerald eyed assassin turned to see where the creature had hoped to, instead as she turned her eyes locked onto a masked sniper that had no doubt snuck up on them while she was ranting. But before she could react she saw the little green hopper leap upon the man’s face causing him to fall backward. She was about to take a step forward in attempt to help but then the little reptile stuck out its long slimy touch and wrapped it around the gunman’s neck suffocating him. With her out agape she single handedly watched as a little green water based animal literally strangled a MI6 agent on the ground…with his tongue.

 As the man’s lifeless hand fell the ground, now sitting proudly upon the dead caucus was the little emerald creature now staring at her with eyes almost glowing out of pride. But as her mouth was about to open the little thing jumped causing Laura to jump to out of right. Staring at the creature in astonishment she saw how it was directing her attention to a sewer line not to far ahead. The footsteps of well trained soldiers and agents began resonating in her ears causing her to follow the little green menace as it hopped along into the dark dang cylindrical pipe line that ran under the city. As they continued walking the light of the moon started to fade as only a dim amount of light entered from the above hatches though tiny holes.

“You…you killed him.” She shouted franticly her eyes dropping to the little green slime ball as he hopped along. Her feet were soaked in who knows what and the smell was repulsive but she had experienced worse, so she didn’t really take much mind to it. “You just…right there….killed him.” She said again the image playing through her mind over and over like a broken tape. “No one just does that….no animal! I mean a wolf yeah….a tiger…understandable but… a frog!?” Her breathing began uneasy as she was starting to get a little overwhelmed by all these shenanigans. Trying to regain her composure she attempted to think about something else but the image haunted her. Finally she put her foot down and stopped running.

“Alright…what are you! Did Hydra send you!? Shield…?....who made you what organization!?” Breathing heavily she could hear that the men tailing them were getting close. “Oh screw this.” She muttered as she stared down at the little green amphibian once more. “Stay here…and…no more killing!” She scolded as she ran the opposite direction toward the guards. Gunfire could be heard echoing through the tunnel as Laura using her agility avoided several bullets aimed for her. Unleashing her twin talons she attacked one of the soldiers ignoring the bullets that lodged themselves in her skin. After slicing the man’s the removed his gun and started running back toward the frog firing violently behind her at the rocky ceiling. When the little green bother got into view she scooped him up and stood her ground. She could see shadows dancing at the guards approached them, but she didn’t flinch. Her emerald eyes remained locked upon a single crack on the ceiling until one of the men appeared in eye sight. With that she fired one round of pullets toward the crack which caused something short of a cave in.

The dust settled to reveal the way they had came blocked by several chunks of broken stone and now the darkness almost seemed supernatural. Unable to see her hand in front of her face, she relied on her feral senses to avoid bumping into a wall. Grabbing a hold tightly to the frog which she wouldn’t dare put him down. Despite the fact she hated him, thought he was repulsive last time she checked Frog’s didn’t have the best vision in the dark, under the water yes but not in the dark. And as much as she hated to admit it…he had proven to be an admirable partner along being frightening.

Eventually moonlight began to appear ahead of them as relief fell over Laura like an April shower. Her stride soon turned into a sprint as eventually she emerged from the dark tunnel, now she was basking in the moonlight. Placing the frog down she sat down glancing around curiously. It appeared that they were at some type of rocky beach. No doubt a harbor from the amount of ships so saw ahead them. The crystal water shimmered in the lunar rays of light as they crawled timidly upon the shore before returning back from where they came from. Breathing in deeply the salt air she glance over to the frog that sat beside her as she shot him a smile. “I still think Hydra sent you.” She whispered with a vague smile slowly approaching the water, as she let it swirl around her ankles.

With that she removed her tattered dress and raped it over the rocks as she walked deeper into the water. Her nude body was soon submerged in the crystal clear shimmering water. Wiping the dirt and mud from her skin and leaves from her hair she freshened herself up. Occasionally ducking for on coming boats that passed by. Eventually when she was fully washed and now needed to get better attire on herself. Swimming back to shore she remained waist deep in the water as she stared at the frog. “Alright follow or not, I need to get new clothing. You can stay, go or follow I don’t care but I am not walking around New York City in a shredded up dress.” With that she turned toward the nearest ship and started swimming toward it. It was a Yacht that appeared to have a very wealthy look to it. It was simply cursing along the deeper water, making it not to hard for Laura to catch up with.

Once she was near it she simply popped her claws and dug them into the rear of the vassal. With that she silently scaled it until she managed to climb upon the deck. Obviously naked, she didn’t want to waste much time in the open air. Creeping silent above deck she managed to climb into the front window as she entered the drivers area. No one appeared to be present so Laura silently continued to explore the lower deck. To her surprise no one seemed to be on board which should have calmed Laura’s fears but only caused her to become more and more skeptical. “Something’s not right.” She whispered realized the craft was practically empty. With no other option she grabbed one of the bed sheets and with a bit of slicing and fastening tied it around her waist to drop down to her knees.

With that she prepared to return back to the shore when she stopped in mid stride. Standing still for a moment her highly trained ears began picking up an almost sonar ticking from the belly of the craft. Seconds later her body dashed from the bottom stair well as she raced through the window in the control room. As she was making her way to the bow of the ship it instantly ignited into flames as a detonation device placed in the engine of the sear fairing vassal burst into flames, causing the whole ship to explode. Laura’s tiny body was tossed aside by the explosion into the air, as the force of it rendered her unconscious. With that her body was thrown into flame invested water, due to the gasoline leak that now caused the surrounded water to have patches slightly ablaze.

Laura’s body then slowly submerged into the blazing water as she started sinking deeper and deeper preparing to meet its end at the bottom of the sea. 

 “Alright…what are you! Did Hydra send you!? Shield…?....who made you what organization!?” She shouted, demanding answers from him. “Yeah, see I can explain--” he began to think as he looked up at her rage filled eyes, but before he could finish, their attention instantly shifted towards the way they just came, as the sounds of footsteps could be heard splashing through the sewers, most likely more soldiers searching for them. “Oh screw this.” She muttered under her breath as she stared down at him once more, “Stay here…and…no more killing!” She then ordered, before popping her claws as she started making her way back down the tunnel towards the soldiers. “Party pooper!” He thought annoyingly at her as he stuck his tongue out towards, before then listing as he could hear gunfire echoing off from the darkness before him, short screams of men as they realized just what they were facing.

But as the gunfire continued to echo off the sewer tunnel walls, he could hear the splashing of feet moving through the water, getting closer to where he was. Bending his legs in, he readied himself to pounce on one of the soldiers as soon as they were close enough, but he suddenly stopped himself as it was Talon, her body now littered with gunshot wounds, who appeared from the shadows. Not waiting another second, she reached out her hand, picking him up out of the sewage water before then turning around and swiftly opening fire upon the ceiling above them. Chunks of rocks violently came crashing down, sending dust everywhere, but luckily blocking the oncoming soldiers from reaching them now.

Within seconds the lights flickered off, casting the whole tunnel in utter darkness, allowing only the sound of feet splashing through the water to be their guide. Still clasping onto Laura’s hand, even though he couldn’t see in the dark, he remembered that Talon could see clearly thanks to her feral abilities. But soon the darkness began to flee as a bright light could be seen shinning from at the end of the tunnel. As they reached the end, they found themselves at the edge of one of the city’s harbors; the moon’s light now beating down on them once more. Looking at Talon, he could see that her wounds were already beginning to heal as she sat him down on a rock. “I still think Hydra sent you.” She said with a smile as the ocean’s gentle breeze rushed around them, bringing the smell of salt through the air.

Facing palming, his little hand slowly slid down his face as his eyes looked up at her as she slowly walked over into the water, before to his surprise, removing her torn and tattered dress; letting it float in the water as she allowed her naked body to bath freely in the moon’s light as it glistened upon her skin. “Wha--Laura, what are you--?!”  He thought as he quickly put his green hand over his eyes. “I’m not looking! I’m not looking! I’m not…” Slowly he slid part of his hand away, allowing him to get a slight glimpse of her as she began to bath, “…okay, maaaaaaybe just a…” but then covering his eyes hastily once more, “…nope! Still not looking! I’m still not looking!” He continued to tell himself as he fought off the temptation.

But after a few moments of covering his eyes, he cautiously lowered his hand down just a bit, allowing one of his eyes to peek out. Finding Laura now standing waist deep in the water to where most of her body was covered, he put his hand down as he looked upon her as the moon’s light glimmered down upon the top parts of her body; her wet hair sticking to her soft skin, allowing only her emerald eyes to be seen.  “Alright follow or not, I need to get new clothing. You can stay, go or follow I don’t care but I am not walking around New York City in a shredded up dress.” She said to him as she turned around, beginning to make her way out into deeper water. “Yeah, like I’m going to let my girlfriend wonder around Manhattan without any clothes on.” The little frog thought as he leaped forward towards her, causing a small splash as his tiny green body hopped into the water.

“Where is she going?” Looking ahead as he swam a few feet behind her he could see that she was heading towards a large yacht that was just a little off shore from where they just were. Dunking his head under the water, Charles thrusted his legs back, sending his small amphibian body through water as he. One advantaged to being a frog was that it now made him an excellent swimmer….even though Talon always said he couldn’t swim to begin with. Turning his attention up towards the surface of the water, he could see the belly of the yacht not too far off, but thanks to her more animal-like abilities, Laura had already reached the boat. Floating back up towards the surface, he looked on as she dug her claws into its hull of the boat before than starting to climb up the yacht’s side. “What is she doing?” He wondered as he continued to swim after her.

BOOM! Before he could get any closer, the little frog was caught within a large wave of water as the whole yacht suddenly went up in a ball of fire. “LAURA!!!” His body swirled and spun with the wave as he was pulled underneath the water due to the explosion. Kicking his legs back, his small head poked back out off the water just seconds later, watching pieces of the ship scattered in the water. Searching frantically, he quickly stuck his head back into the water as he began to swim closer to the remains of the ship, his eyes going in every direction; they finally locked onto her body as it was sinking deeper and deeper towards the ocean floor. Like a torpedo, War Frog’s body shot through the water, his legs kicking backwards, sending his tiny body streaking through the watery depths.

Clasping onto her arm, with all the strength his little body possessed, he pulled her up back towards the surface. Bursting from the water, he quickly looked for something they could float on; spotting a life preserver that somehow managed to survive the explosion, Charles sent his tongue out, wrapping it around the preserver before then reeling it over towards them. Hopping up out of the water, using his amphibian strength, he pulled her body up onto the life preserver. But as he did, they were suddenly engulfed by a bright light from overhead. Holding his hand over his eyes, he looked up towards the bright light to find a helicopter hover above them; its propellers spinning above causing the water to ruffle around them. And as it did, they were then surrounded by a group of boats which seemed to have appeared out of nowhere. “It was a trap.” Charles thought as one of the boats pulled up next to them. Pulling Talon’s unconscious body onboard, he quickly noticed that the men who were driving were all dressed like the gunman who attacked them before in Central Park.

Not waiting another second, War Frog instantly leaped into action, diving onto one of the men’s face, sending him scrambling backwards as the heroic frog then spat out his tongue, swinging it around before then slamming into one of the other men’s face, causing him to fall backwards into the water. “Grab the little freak!” the driver of the boat shouted as Charles was then over powered by one of the men who quickly wrapped his hands tightly around Charles body, almost squeezing the life out of him. Throwing him into a small metal cage, Charles began to violently bounce against the metal bars of the cage like a super bouncy ball, but as he did his body was sent backwards as he was unable to break through.

Turning his attention towards his and Talon’s captors, he started to listen to what the two remaining men on the boat were saying. “Here, radio the boss and tell him we’re making our way back to the docks…” the driver of the boat ordered as he handed the other man a radio, “…and that we have the girl in custody.” As the boat pulled into the docks of the harbor, Charles was curious as to why NYPD were there waiting for them. Throwing the cage to one of the men, Charles’ body spun and bounced against the inside of the cage, “Hey! Ever heard of ‘handle with care?!’” he thought angrily as his head started to stop spinning. “Here she is, sir.” The driver of the boat said as two other men pulled Talon out of the boat.

Looking over at the man the driver was talking to, Charles noticed that he was NYPD, seeing that he was the Police Inspector, he could only wonder what the inspector wanted with Talon….or more confusingly why they would keep a random frog alive instead of just leaving him. “Something else is going on here” Charles began to deduce as other city police officers loaded both Talon and Charles into the back of an armored police transport. “Well I have to say that this is a surprise…” the inspector began to say as he looked at Laura, “…but it’s good to have you back Talon, I’m sure Madame Velguh will be happy to see the both of you.” And with a wicked smile on his face, he slammed the door, casting them both in complete darkness as the transport began to move. “Okay, I have no idea who that guy was….but I already hate him.”

“War Killer” She moaned within the entrapment of her own dark cold mind. His last words echoed in the back of her mind “Ugh, sorry. But could you excuse me for just a moment.” She replayed that moment over and over in her mind studying everything, and anything she saw. The people, the way the tables were set, the lighting, the plants, the shadows that danced in the corner of her eyes, she observed everything. Nothing threatening was stated, nothing seemed out of the obvious, it was like he just vanished off the face of the earth. And with ever time she replayed the moment she wanted to call out to him and tell him to stay, or to go with him but that was the problem with replaying a moments, you had to replay your actions as well. She had to constantly nod her head and pretend he was going to return when she knew he was not.

“Charlie.” She cried her body remained numb and her mind continued being active. Once again she watched him get up from his seat, that look of discomfort in his face, his golden locks of hair draped delicately across his clear completion, his deep jade eyes so softly staring back at her, as if she was the world to him. Pausing a moment the surroundings faded into the darkness as a thought crossed her mind. “What if it was before that?” Suddenly the scene shifted to the two of them getting out of the car and approaching the restaurant, being greeted by the man at the desk and Charles astonishing her with his fluency in French. Her mind froze the moment as she looked at the waiter, studying his posture, his heart rate, his eyes. He didn’t seem to pose a threat so she moved to the door man, glancing at his pockets seeing if anything was bulging, but there was nothing.

Running her hands through her hair she resumed the moment watching as the two of them hands locked walked to their table. But as she did she couldn’t help but star at Charles face, he was beautiful so perfect. How could a man like that have chosen her for a date? She would have thought CPG a better date. Snapping out of her love struck star she continued replaying the moment, and when she couldn’t find anything her mind went further back, to the air filled drive. She laughed as she once again watched him fiddle with his radio, she smiled as she saw him blush and she couldn’t help but reach out to him, only for the memory to fade and return to the darkness that lingered with in her mind. “What happened to you….”   She said rubbing her hands over her eyes in frustration.                          

Suddenly a wave of light consumed her as the darkness was obliterated and she found herself laying flat on her back. Bright lights shone down upon her, while her arms burnt due to the silver constraints wrapped around her wrist. Her breathing was low and she was still naked but had a white sheet draped over her, as if she was a body in a morgue.  Her neck turned as she looked around finding herself in a small metal walled room. Her heightened senses seemed to be switched off as she attempted to pick up any scents in the room. Fear suddenly coursed through her veins as she began wondering what happened to that little green frog. Last she remembered she was waving him good bye at the docks.

Suddenly the two metal doors before her parted slowly as a woman dressed in a purple cloak entered slowly. Her black hair could be seen draping down her shoulders, while her facial features remained concealed. “Well my little pet it appears I’ve finally caught you.” The words slithered through her lips like a viper’s tongue as she slowly slid her hand across the stone cold table. Laura’s mouth remained shut as she attempted to get a lock into her opponent’s eyes. The woman continued circling around her like a vulture now sliding her hand across Laura’s chest. Finally the emerald eyed assassin spoke “Where is the frog?” She said through clenched teeth. The woman laughed in pleasure as she pulled back. “Your boyfriend goes missing and you’re worried about a frog?”

Suddenly Laura’s placid eyes filled with rage as they darted over to the lady in the purple robe. “Oh calm down my darling, they are both fine.” She chuckled deeply her hands placed flat over Laura’s forehead as she began to press upon it. “What do you want with me?” The lavender lady leaned forward as she whispered “Your life.” Talon’s eyes went wide as she tightened her fists now glaring up at her oppressor. “Do whatever you want with me…but let them go!” Once again her laughing voice filled the empty room as she pulled herself away retreating to a chair in the corner. Crossing her legs and folding her hands upon her lap she shook her head. “Them? You mean that little pest?” And with that the clanking of machinery could be heard as slowly from the roof a cage was lowered to reveal the little green slime ball.

On seeing him Talon pulled with all her might at the silver restraints that caused her skin to burn. Pain coerced through her body but she ignored it. “Fight all you want dearly but you will not escape this time.” Breathing heavily with blood drenching her hands Talon laid her head back against the stole cold table. Her emerald eyes staring at the little green frog, that had seemed to cause her nothing but trouble. “How about I make a deal with you.” She said slowly getting up as she brushed her finger tips against the cage of the innocent creature. “I’ll give you back your boyfriend…if you leave this little frog with me. You no doubt have noticed it’s not just any mere animal. It is of great value to me, and…who I work for.”

With those words Talon’s restraints released as Laura instantly the young assassin was inches away from the woman clothed in purple. With her claws outstretched pointing directly at her opponent. As she leaped forward about to slice her adversary in pieces some sort of field appeared and Laura’s body was shot back against the wall. Laura’s body flew against the wall, slamming so hard that a dent was formed. Letting out a silent cry the silver clawed assassin fell flat on her face, blood running down her back. Scrounging on the ground the teen tactician leaped forward once again, her resilience so strong it could be seen in her eyes. Yet once again her body was flung into the air causing more dents in the wall.

Finally with blood stained hands, and scarred back the young vigilantly staggered to her feet, her finger nails digging into the table before her. “No.” she rasped, through bloody broken lips. Breathing deeply Laura dropped to her knees, her midnight blue hair draping over her sweat drenched forehead. Agony filled her bones as she could feel her healing factor attempting to compensate for all the damage made to her exterior. “I won’t!” She shouted, her exhausted voice echoing against the stone cold metallic walls. The Lavender sorceress   sneered a devious smile as she approached the broken rebel. “There’s no other option my pet. Its either the frog or the life of yourself, and your lover.”

With that Talon could hear the doors behind her part, and slowly she turned her head. As her emerald eyes focused upon the figure behind her, they went wide with shock as her mouth as a gape. Her broken hands tightened into fists as her emerald orbs flashed yellow. It was Charles, his bare chest littered with scars, and his physical health in dire state. He was being hung by the wrists and ankles chained to the cell that held him. A dead silence was eventually interrupted by the jaded animal that seemed to be bouncing in his cage. For a moment Laura’s deep lush eyes turned toward the frog remorse obvious due to the tears brimming on the edges of her eyes.

“So what will it be dear Laura?” Every moment spent with the small slimly creature flashed before her, from the moment she met him in the bathroom to where she had left him by the docks. From the moment where he killed the MI6 Guard to where she saw him trapped in the cage. It was silly really, caring about an animal, it was actually foolish and the fact that she was so hesitant to sacrifice its life for her lover’s which could only make her wonder. Snapping out of her thought she looked away from the frog forcing the tears to stop. With that she staggered to her feet as she glared back at the witch. Approaching War Killer she unleashed her twin talons as she sliced through the metal that bound his wrist.

“Baby…” she whispered as she brushed aside his hair gently staring deeply into his emerald eyes. Holding him in her arms she steadied herself as she draped his limp arm over her shoulder. He was badly beaten and half conscious, but he still attempted to stand to his feet, even though his legs gave way. Holding her Boyscout in her arms she turned to the lavender witch as she said with a growl “Where is the exit or must I make one.” With that a cocky smile curled upon her lips, as despite her previous defeat by this woman’s powers, she refused to let her have the upper hand. With a wave of the hand the woman pointed her finger to an opposing wall and with that a portal seemed to appear leading back to the restaurant bathroom where this all began. Talon in most cases wouldn’t trust magic, yet with Charles badly beaten she was willing to take the risk.

With that she grasped Charles hand as she prepared to walk through the portal. But just as she was about to her neck turned as her tear brimming emerald eyes glanced back at the little green handful. “I’m sorry.” She voiced attempting to clear her throat. Stepping through the portal she turned once more and mouthed the words “Do you trust me?” And with that her body disappeared into the fluctuation of the portal that lead her back to New York City.

The sounds of metal clacking and cracking together screamed around the little green frog, causing his eyes to shoot open as his body literally jumped violently as he awoke. “W-where am I?” He wondered as he held up his head, allowing his eyes to wonder. He found himself still within the same cage he was thrown in before, surrounded by complete darkness except for a dim light below his prison that was beginning to get brighter and brighter as the cage itself slowly began to lower downwards all on its own.

“…Do whatever you want with me…but let them go!” A voice suddenly yelled out, causing Charles to scurry over to the side of the cage as he knew whose voice it was, “Laura…” Staring down below, he found Talon on the ground of an empty chamber, her naked body clothed only with a white sheet. “Who is that?” He thought, noticing the woman dressed in purple as she stood before Laura. “Them? You mean that little pest?” The woman said as she directed Laura’s attention to Charles as he remained looking down at the two from his steel confinement.

Upon seeing him, he watched as Talon pulled at the chains that restrained her. “Fight all you want dearly but you will not escape this time.” The woman said demeaningly as she began to make her way around the table that was placed in the center of the room; circling around Laura who’s eyes looked up at Charles’, causing her to pull and struggle to break free once more. “How about I make a deal with you.” The woman said as her fingers slid against Charles cage, “I’ll give you back your boyfriend…if you leave this little frog with me. You no doubt have noticed it’s not just any mere animal. It is of great value to me, and…who I work for.” Glaring over at the woman, he tried to figure out what game she was playing with Laura, “I am her boyfriend!” Kicking his feet back, his body leaped forward towards the woman, only to slam into the bars of his cage.

But as her words left her lips, Talon’s chains vanished into black smoke. Extending her twin talons, Laura lunged forward towards the witch, only to collide into some kind of force field that protected the purple clad woman. “LAURA!” His eyes grew wide with fear as her body was flung backwards, slamming into the stone wall behind her. Seeing the blood running down her back, he could only watch helplessly as her body was then flung back once more into the wall, before then dropping to her knees. “No…I won’t!” she shouted in reply at the woman, causing her to smile down at Laura devilishly.

 “There’s no other option my pet. Its either the frog or the life of yourself, and your lover.” And as her words left her mouth, Charles turned his head to find the only doors to the room opening as a figure walked into the chamber. It was the inspector who was at the docks when he and Laura were captured. “So what will it be dear Laura?” The wicked sorceress asked of Talon. Staring at the woman as she continued to slide her fingers against the metal cars of the cage, he could only wonder what kind of game she was trying to play. “Baby…” As he heard this, his hands wrapped around the bars of his cage, literally almost pushing his head through them as he watched Talon place the man’s arm around her while he continued to simply stand there with a grin on his face, “Wait, Laura…t-that’s not--that’s not me??”

“Where is the exit or must I make one.” She then growled at the woman who then used her magic to open some kind of portal. “Laura, wait!” Wrapping both his hands and webbed feet around the bars of the cage, he began to pull and shake; trying anything he could to simply break free, to stop her! “Laura! Stop, that’s not me! Wait, that’s not me!!!” Looking back just before she entered the portal, her eyes looked at him as her lips slowly parted, “I’m sorry.” Only to step slowly into the portal, looking back one more time as the light, “Do you trust me?” before then being fully consumed by the light as the portal closed.

Stilling clinging to the bars, he slowly began to calm down, breathing more heavily as he now stared on at the woman with rage. “Finally…alone at last.” Her lips curled inward slightly as her eyes fell upon her little aquatic friend. Smiling deviously, with a snap of her fingers Charles found himself engulfed within a cloud of black smoke, only to find both his arms and legs suddenly chained to the stone table in the center of the room. The echo of her heels filled the chamber as she circled the table, her hand sliding across its stone surface as she simple looked down at the defenseless green amphibian as he glared up at her, his eyes still raging with anger.

“Now, let’s find out where I went wrong with you, my new little interest.” She said in a low voice as her body leaned over his, her hand slowly grazing his slimy green skin as they began to glow with a pinkish purple aura, causing his eyes to roll back as he fell into her trance. Flashing back as she slowly used her magic to open the doors of his mind, Charles found himself looking into the restroom mirror back at the restraint he had taken Talon to. “Come on, Barnes…pull yourself together man.” He said to himself as he filled his hands with water, splashing the puddle slightly against his face. But as he lifted his face, he suddenly saw the woman standing behind him in the reflection. “Who are y--” but before he could finish, her hands began to glow with a green aura as a wicked smile grew across her cheeks before then zapping him with a bolt of energy.

Falling to the floor, his body jerked and squirmed as pain shot up and down. Cringing as the surge of energy continued to dance around inside of him violently, his eyes slowly looked at his hands, watching in shock as they slowly began to change green and began to shrink. Jerking his head up, he eyes stared up at the woman as the room started to spin, seeing as the woman looked down at him with a look of confusion upon her face. “W-ha…what d-did…you do t-to me…?” He managed to ask her as another burst of pain surged through his body once more. But she simple glared at him with anger, before her body disappeared within a cloud of black smoke.

His eyes quickly shot back open as the trance ended, finding the woman looking down upon him with curiosity. “From what I can tell, I did everything right…but something happened, something altered my spell.” She said out loud as she tapped her finger against the table before then holding her hand over Charles small body. Closing her eyes, she began to whisper in what sounded like gibberish to Charles only to cause him concern as a dark black aura engulfed his body, “Yeeeeesss….sooooo….thhhhaaaaatttt’s…whhhaaaaat…iiiitttt….wwwwaaaaassss…” Feeling something pulsing deep within, he looked up at her to find her eyes flickering erratically to reveal her pupils now completely black. He then jerked back as the plus became stronger, causing him to feel a darkness inside, almost demonic even.

But without warning she jerked her hand away from him, causing his little green body to fall back onto the stone table. Placing both her hands on the table, she began to breathe heavily as she leaned against the table; using it to prop herself up as if she appeared almost unable to on her own. Slowly lifting her head, her hair hung partly over her face, covering half of it but still allowing him to notice that her eyes had returned to normal. Smiling devilishly once again, she literally slid her body against the cold, stone surface; sliding her head next to his tiny body as her eyes closed, “Heee….does your little girlfriend know what kind of darkness you have hiding away in there…” her sickening smile remained as her eyes then opened, looking over into his as he simply glared at her awkwardly, “…or more importantly, do you?” She said wonderingly.

“Okaaaaaaay….you have officially reached my creeped-out level.” And with that he sent his tongue flying onto her face. Screaming, her body jerked back in disgusted, causing his chains to vanish into smoke. “Yes!” Leaping to his feet, he slung his tongue around once more towards Madame Velguh. “Why you little--!” She muttered; her complexion filled with rage now as she grabbed War Frog by his tongue, sending him slamming into the stone wall. Quickly lifting his body off the ground, he shook his head slightly as the dizziness began to subside, “Ow…baaaaad idea.” Looking up, he found Madame Velguh looming over him, her hands and eyes now glowing with a bright black and purple with rage, “Die you wretched toad!”   She roared, sending a blot of energy towards the tiny hero.

Feeling as the bolt of energy coursed through his body, he was sent flying back into the stone wall once more, causing his body to slam against the cold hard floor. Lifting his body back off the ground again, ignoring the pain that was running through his body, he stood to face the witch once more. Blood ran down his lips as he stared up at the sorceress who was preparing to deliver the final blow. “Do you trust me?” Talon’s words echoed through his mind as he stood before certain death. Staring up at the witch, he stood his ground as she slung another bolt of dark magic towards him, slowly he closed his eyes, holding his arms….but as he did, his body began to glow blue, causing her attack to dissolve on impact.

“What?! How can this be?!?” Velguh looked up in complete shock as the little green frog glowed with bright blue aura. Looking down at his hands, a smile grew across his green face as he knew what it was. It was Gemini. “I trust you.” Holding out his hand, Charles felt as the energy around him began to flow through his body and to his hands, forming within them the mighty blade. “Boo-yah! Time for you to face the epic might of War Frog and…” but his grin faded quickly as his eyes grew wide as he looked at the blade that now rested in his hands, “….oh come on!” To his horror, instead of being full size, the blade had shrunken down to the size of a toothpick! Sighing deeply as he found Velguh preparing to hit him with another blast of energy, he clutched the sword tightly as he readied himself for her attack, “Alright, Jiminy…let’s do this.”

“Well well boys look what we got here” his confidence voice was the first thing that rang though her as her emerald eyes flickered under the street lamps. Shooting up she attempted to reach for him but was instantly electrocuted by the chains around her wrists causing her limp body to crash back into the pavement. Her sweat drenched midnight locks draped across her face as blood began dripping from her nose. Coughing several times over she shifted her body so she was flat on her back, her jaded eyes glaring strait at her adversary. His cocky smile and blond neck length locks and blue sapphire blue eyes made her know instantly who it was. “Cain you…you…rascal!” She growled once again attempting to get on her feet only to receive a brutal kick in the stomach. Gasping in pain blood spewed out of her mouth as her head made contact with the pavement.

Moaning in agony the emerald eyed assassin pried her eyes open as she found herself still in the city of New York. Blood seeped out of her scared arms and hemorrhaged skull. Gasping for air as her healing factor desperately attempted to compensate for her wounds. “How….dare you…” she rasped through battered lips as her anger fumed out of her very soul. Cain remained standing there, his beady blue eyes staring down at his newly won prize with his arrogance lingering all around him. “What can I say X? Old habits die hard.” With that he grabbed her by the color that was wrapped around her neck and threw her into an specially armored containment vehicle. As her shoulder slammed into the opposing wall she a silent cry.

As her body sunk into the corner her head cast down Talon’s emerald eyes slowly became iratic. “No…Cain…wait” she groaned clenching her first. Cain only looked at her with that crooked smile and laughed. “Sorry Laura you won’t be escaping this time…”  With those   words he slammed the metal doors in her face causing the lights from the street lamps to go out. The only comfort was the iridescent moon beams that slowly began filling the whole cubical. Eventually she could feel the vehicle begining to move and with each bump in the road Talon’s inner struggle became futile. “Must….remain…in control…” she gasped for air shutting her eyes scrunching herself in the corner to avoid the light of the moon.

As time passed Laura’s teeth began to sharpen to a point, her emerald eyes almost became nonexistent under the feral ferocity that her bright flaxen colored eyes gave off. Her body began to convulse   as she desperately attempted to stay in control. Curling herself up in the corner with her head on her knees and arms wrapped around her legs she tried calming down her breathing but nothing helped. Slowly her heart rate began to increase as she practically began slamming her body against the metal wall causing dents. Her nails sharpened to a point as she began growling vigorously.

“Inspector Cain? Do you think we should pull over” One of the lackeys said trying to keep his tone stable as his hands tightly clutched the steering wheel. Cain’s eyes were bent down as the ruthless officer was deep in thought. “Could those two teens be responsible for all of this?” he whispered as he scanned several sheets over paper piled upon his lap as she sifted through them. “Sir!” the young man said almost shouting as the vehicle seemed to be shaking due to their captured passenger in the back. Cain’s eyes slowly glanced up at his young lieutenant as he rolled his eyes.

“That container is pure silver. The energy she is exerting against it will only bounce back at her…there is no way X-23 at her current physique could she even hope to-“ but just then a hole was blown through his brave statement as the whole car violently shook and eventually flipped over. With lightning precious Cain kicked open the passenger door as he climbed out grasping his gun with his fingers. His blue eyes darted from one location to the other but all he could catch was a vague shadow running into the dark wilderness that surrounded them. Placing his weapon back in its holster he helped his lieutenant out before circling around the vehicle.  “How do you think she did it sir” the young man said coughing slightly. Cain rubbed his hand against the broken containment holder and sighed. “Not her, lieutenant.” He whispered before taking one final look into the darkness “It...”

“Well well little man looks like your lucks all run out.”   Velguh said pantingly as she brushed her pail hand against her blood red lips. “You’ve put up a good fight but all things much come to an end.” The whole room was littered with burn marks as if bolts of lightning had crashed against them. It was truth that the little frog had put up a very admirable fight, but the lavender sorceress wouldn’t be beaten by this little pest. Focusing her hands before the green little pet she summoned the dark arts as a mist of darkness began filling the whole room causing the little frogs vision to blur. Now cloaked in her veil of the night the witch slowly pulled from her belt a dagger as she approached him from behind.

 Slowly she raised her arms the blade read to slice into the small amphibians back when -  a bone chilling howl could be heard piercing through the ventilation system. Velguh’s eyes darted all around her as a crashing sound could be heard coming from somewhere within the room, but due to her own cloud of darkness she could not see anything beyond her face except for two sunset colored eyes glaring back at her and coming closer. Holding her blade tightly she her fingers began to shake. “Stay back!” She called out her voice shaking. As her predator approached and the dust settled sharp teeth could be seen glinting in the moonlight. Just then all lights went out and only the brightly glowing fire fueled eyes could be visible in the darkness.  

Snarling and clawing against the walls could be heard as a battle of night progressed, the victor bathed in the darkness of their own souls. Without warning the lights switched on one more to see a large hulking black wolf upon the metal table, its claws digging into the silver at its feet and its teeth ready to bite the old hags head off. Its fur shimmered with silver strikes that looked as if the moon was resonating from it. Its bright yellow eyes cast down at the witch as she scrounged on the ground trying to get to her feet. Finally she mustered the strength to stand again as she shook her head with the same wicked smile curled upon her lips. “Well…well my little pets, it appears you have won this battle. But never forget appearances can be deceiving.” And with that the canine leaped from the table its claws poised and ready to strike at the witch. But just then the sorceress draped her black cloak around her and disappeared with a puff of smoke.  

Gracefully the wolf landed on all fours as it turned its head toward the little green frog that had been watching all the commotion. Slowly paw in front of paw it approached him head bent down to retain eye level. Lightly she rubbed her nose against the frog’s slimy surface and then pulled away swiftly brushing her paw to get the mucus off. “Hop on Boyscout, we have a long way to go.” She said attempting to smile but not fully knowing how it would come across due to her sharp canines. No words were exchanged as the little green frog hopped on her back, she could see he was tired so she started no conversation. With that she leaped back through the whole and began running under the moonlight. In truth she had forgotten how she found this place, all she remembered was being outside the wall and detecting War Killer’s scent, which turned out to be the frog.

After a few miles were covered she finally stopped to rest upon a tall hill that overlooked the whole of New York city. War Killer in his green body dismounted from her fur upon the cool emerald grass. Laura attempted to figure out how to sit in this newly gained wolf like body but eventually her legs gave way due to the exhaustion of running all the while. Taking in a deep breath she slowly shut her eyes as the light of the moon started to engulf her whole body. Soon light fully consumed her. Within seconds the lights faded and Laura’s clothed human exterior her midnight blue hair blowing in the light breeze and her emerald eyes staring at the little frog Killer. A small smile curled upon her lips as she extended her hand toward him.

“I knew it was you.” She whispered as the little frog leapt into the palm of her hand. “You want to know when?” She said bringing him in front of her eyes. “Ever since I heard that witches voice. I remember hearing it in the diner a few tables away from us, she was speaking to one of the bar tenders and well….yeah…sorry it took so long…um baby.” She said blushing slightly. Staring at him a while soon a nervous smile crept upon her lips as she brought her hands a little closer to her face. “We I’ve only seen this in the movies…so sorry if well I mess up. Hopefully I won’t turn into a frog.” She chuckled slightly swallowing deeply. With that she brought him closer and finally pressed her lips against him.

Most people would have cringed in disgust others probably gag but not Talon. No, she wasn’t kissing just any frog, she was kissing the lips of the man that she loved, frog or not he was War Killer. What happened next was out of a fairytale. As her emerald eyes slowly opened she wasn’t face to face with a frog, she found herself staring into the emerald eyes of Charles Barnes, his lush brown locks tangled in her fingers as their lips were locked. Slowly Laura pulled away as she looked at the ground her cheeks bright red. Before the young Boyscout could speak she placed her fingers on his lips shushing him. “Before anything else happens Charles, I need to tell you something.” Running her hands nervously through her hair she opened her mouth as “Charles I…I think I…” but just then a striking pain coursed through her chest as the light of the sun pierced over the city that never sleeps its rays brushing against her skin.

Clutching her chest she cringed in pain but only for a moment as a deep sigh escaped her lips. In despair she glanced at the uprising sunset tears welling up in her eyes as a smile curled upon her lips. “Can’t live with you can’t live without you moon….” She mouthed as her voice one again was lost with the dawning of a new day. Turning back to Charles she lowered her head shaking it and shrugging her shoulders as she prepared to get up, her moment was missed and like usual she had managed to lose her one and only chance to admit the truth. 

“Well well little man looks like your lucks all run out.” Listening to her as she spoke, Charles stood his ground within the battle torn room. “You’ve put up a good fight but all things must come to an end.” Clutching his tiny hands around the mini-Gemini, Charles waited for the witch to make her next move. Breathing heavily, the young green hero knew he couldn’t keep this fight up much longer. The fact that he wasn’t in his own body, he could feel that his current form was built to participate in such battles as this. If he was going to make out of this alive, it was going to take a miracle.

With a wicked smile, Velguh’s hand began to glow once more as she motioned it in front of her slightly. Suddenly the whole room was engulfed by a thick mist of darkness. “Crap, can’t see a thing.” Continuing to hold what ground he could, Charles looked around in every direction as the sorceress vanished within the misty cloak that surrounded him on all sides. His hands clutching the hilt of his blade tightly, without moving a muscle, the young Samurai took in a deep breath as then closed his eyes. Going back to his masters teachings years ago in his world, he was taught that in some battles, the best way to find an enemy is to not rely on your common senses like seeing, but  taking advantage of your other senses as well; like hearing for example.

With his eyes closed tightly, taking in a few more deep breaths, the young hero put all of his focus on his hearing, pay attention to every sound around him. In this world, there are things we see every day but truly noticed them, things that we are unable to see with our eyes but can only be seen through our other senses, through smelling, touching, tasting…and hearing; things that the average person never sees, not unless they actually start to look for them. Calming his body down with every deep breath, Charles could feel his heart beating slower, his body beginning to stiffen up as he moved less and less, as all his energy was being put into hearing the silence that circled around him.

And within the longing silences, his attention turned to the sound of feet gliding across the cold stone floor. “Gotcha.” With a grin on his face, Charles knew she was right behind him. Clasping his hands around the hilt of his sword, he began to slowly loosen up the muscles in his arms and legs, readying himself to block her attack which was sure to come at any mo--but like a cold chill entering into the room, the young hero froze in place once more as the dark silence that surrounded him was interrupted by the howling roar that echoed through the chamber.

A crashing sound could then be heard as he could tell something else had entered into the room with them. Continuing to keep his eyes shut, he did his best to try and focus on where it was, but finding himself unable to keep up with its erratic moments…he knew that whatever it was, it wasn’t human. “Stay back!” He heard Velguh scream from within the black mist given her position away completely. Quickly his eyes shot open as he turned to where her scream came from. Trying his best to see through the thick darkness, he remained where he stood as he could begin to hear as if something was clawing against the stone walls, along with a low growling snarl echoing all around.

But with a flash, light filled the room, causing the lean green hero cover his eyes with his arm from the blinding light. As he lowered his arm, he found the darkness fading only to reveal the ferocious beast as it snarled at the witch from on top of the metal table. “Talon?” The young hero thought as he saw silver streaked wolf, her yellow eyes piercing through Velguh’s fear filled soul. Only once before had Charles ever seen Talon in her Lycan form; when she was forced to transform to save a little girl who was trapped within a burning motel.

“Well…well my little pets, it appears you have won this battle. But never forget appearances can be deceiving.” Velguh began to say as she stood got to her feet. Talon not given Velguh another moment to speak, leaped from the table. But with a devilish smile on her face, draping herself within her black cloak, Velguh vanished within a cloud of black smoke, avoiding Talon’s claws as they sliced into the floor. See as she turned her attention towards him, Charles began to wonder how much of Laura was in control while she was in this form and how much was pure Lycan. But as she approached him, he could see it in her yes. “Laura.” He thought with a smile as she rubbed her nose against him.

“Hop on Boyscout, we have a long way to go.” Hearing her soft voice within the beastly growl, the young green hero leaped up onto her back as she then swiftly took off on all fours. Minutes quickly passed as with great speed Talon took them to tall hill, overlooking the whole city of New York. Hoping off her back onto the grass, noticed as Talon’s legs gave way, most likely due to her be exhausted from all the running. Closing her eyes, Charles then watched as her body began to shift from her Lycan form back to her human one. He looked up at her as she gave him short smile, her emerald eyes staring down at him as her blue locks moved with the light breeze that flowed over the hilltop.

“I knew it was you.” She whispered to him as she extended her hand towards him. “Oh, now you tell me.” He thought jokily as he hopped into her palm. Lifting him up, she made it to where his eyes were looking into hers. “Ever since I heard that witches voice. I remember hearing it n the diner a few tables away from us, she was speaking to one of the bar tenders and well…yeah…sorry it took so long…um baby.” He smiled at her as she began to blush; he figured she was probably embarrassed but in truth he was simply thankful she knew it was him finally.

She continued to stare at him; a nervous smile could be seen move across her rosy red cheeks. Moving her hands slightly closer to her face, “Um, babe, what are--” He began to wonder what she was doing, “Well I’ve only seen this in the movies…so sorry if well I mess up. Hopefully I won’t turn into a frog.” And with a slight chuckle, she pressed her lips against his. Closing his eyes, Charles felt as her lips pressed against his, feeling as a small aura of energy began to form around his tiny body. Opening his eyes, he found himself standing! Standing on his own two feet, his eyes still looking into hers as their lips slowly parted. “I can’t believe that actually worked!” He thought surprisingly.

But before he could say anything, he found the tips of her fingers pressing against her lips as she shushed him. “Before anything else happens Charles, I need to tell you something.” He couldn’t help but blush as she began to speak, watching her as she ran her hands through her hair. “Charles I…I think…” but before she could finish, she suddenly began to clutch her chest. Looking at her with concern, he noticed as she mouthed something under her breath, and as she did, he knew that she had lost her voice again.

Seeing tears beginning to build up in her eyes, he watched as she quickly turned from him and began to walk away as she shrugged her shoulders. Looking down towards the ground, he couldn’t help but feel guilty for this; it because of him that she had lost her voice in the first place; and it was now because of him that their first date was ruined. “No.” He thought as his he clutched his fist tightly. She had been through too much, too much pain, too much heartbreak…he knew because he had seen her life once. He knew the pain she carried with her, the love, the death, the feelings of never truly being loved. How every time it seemed she had found happiness, it was suddenly taken away by something random…but not today, not now, he wasn’t’ going to let this night be ruined.

“Laura…” He said as he reached out towards her. Grasping his hand around her wrist, he quickly pulled her back, causing her body to literally spin backwards until finally she wrapped within his warm loving arms, and her lips now pressing against his. Her lips pressed softly against his as he slowly slipped his tongue into her mouth as he entangled it with hers. Sliding his arms around her waist and sliding his hands up around her back, he pulled her gentle in closer against his chest as his lips continued to press against her. Pulling away slowly, he opened his eyes so that now both emerald eyed teens were staring into one anothers souls. A smile grew across his face as he noticed her beginning to blush, shocked by the action he had just preformed, his lips parted as he spoke to her one last time, “…I love you too.” And with that he pulled her in closer, finally once more wrapping his arms around her, as they both looked on towards the rising sun of a new day.