Badasses Of the Multiverse: Book 2: The Mastermind, The Gunslinger, The Magical Girl, The Martial Artist, The Maid, The Warrior, The Tyrant.

Chapter Nine: “Those You Meet Along The Way: Part One.”

By Paul Cousins.

Copyright Disclaimer: All copyrighted places, characters, items, and events, within the story, are held by their current owners. No profit is being made on this work of fiction.

(_)

Reality, alternate reality, on Earth, similar to most Earths of that time period, and cultures. Date, estimated late twentieth century. Place, in a mid-sized city in the southwestern U.S. Time, Nine PM local time, right after dark.

Inside a two-story bar, that was packed with people, country western music played in the background, as the group known as Bad Company, was enjoying drinks, as they sat in comfortable chair, around a large round table. Their table was located on the second story indoor balcony over looking the ground floor down dance floor and bar counter, and entrance.

The only member of there group, whom was not present, was Megatron, whom was in alt mode, parked in a near by parking lot,

The outside of the bar faced a paved three lane street was paned with windows on both floor.

There was a three story building across the street.

There were sidewalks running along the sides of buildings. Also, there were several street lights shaped to look like black, old fashioned gas lights. These streetlights provided plenty of illumination for the streets around the bar.

The buildings beside the building the bar were in, along with the buildings across the street from bar, were all two-story buildings, as well.

Presently Rock and her team had been talking and drinking for the last two hours. Though, they had kept the drinks to just beers, so they would not get drunk. And their discussions up to that point were just casual topics, as a way to unwind from the stress situation they found themselves in.

They found the beers in the bar were cheap, but both cold and good. Along with this, they were happy to find that the bartender of the bar accepted their debit cards.

Akira, Ranma, and Natsuru were currently women, and they had their weapon and uniforms. Though, it seemed the other customers were have so much fun, and the staff was so busy, that no one had even took notice of them.

It was then that Akira noticed they were running low on beer. As she stood up her chair, she said, “I will go get us some more beers. I will be back in a few minutes.”

Rock turned to her, as she replied, “Thank you, Akira.”

As Akira made her way down the stairs. Her first stop was the women's restroom, which was on the first floor, in the back of the building, by the men's restroom.

Fortunately, Akira found there wasn't a line for women's restroom, and she walked inside to relieve herself, and then wash her hands.

A few minutes later, she exited the women's restroom, and walked to the bar counter.

When she got to the bar counter, by the electronic cash register and card reader, she noticed that the counter was lined with both men and women. She looked over at the bartender, whom was behind the bar counter.

The bartender was dressed in a simple brown, long sleeved, button up shirt, with dark brown pants, and brown leather belt. He has graying hair, with a big bushy beard that hid his face

Akira continued to look at the bartender, as she calmly stated, “Bartender.”

Akira did not noticed the bartender do a double-take when he turned to look at her. Still, after he finished handing the drink he had made, to a man at the bar counter, he turned and walked over to cash register. When he reached the cash register, he turned to face Akira.

Akira handed the bartender, the debit card Megatron had made for her, as she “I need seven bottles chilled beer. A cold, good brands. Like before.”

The bartender nodded at his head, as he took the debit card.

As the bartender did so looked at the debit card, Akira turned to her right, and took closer looked at one of the men at the bar counter.

While Akira looked at the man at the bar counter, she missed the bartender looking at the name on the debit card, then looking hard at her, then back at the card.

A few seconds later, the bartender shrugged, and he used the debit card to ring up her order.

As Akira looked at the man at the bar counter, she thought, 'I know that guy from somewhere... But, from where?...'

Meanwhile, man the sitting at the counter bar man turned, and he saw Akira looked at him.

Akira then watched as the man get up from his stool, put a few dollars under his half empty bottle of beer, on the counter, and then he started to walking towards the double-doors to the outside of the bar.

Akira thought, 'Yes. He recognized me. And that means he knows me. And I have questions for him. Such as, where I have seen him before?'

Akira quickly turned to the bartender, whom was holding her card, a pen, and a receipt for her to sign.

Akira continued her thoughts, 'But first, I need to finish my order. Then, I will go after him.'

Akira swiftly took the card and pocket it.

Akira then gently grabbed the pen and receipt, she signed her name in english, and she handed the pen and receipt back to the bartender. Finally, she said, “I will be back for my beers in a minute.”

Akira turned and she watched as the man she had been looking at, exit the bar through the building's double-door entrance. She briskly made her wait through the crowd, as she followed him outside.

As Akira walked outside, she noticed the air was cool, but not cold.

Fortunately, the street lamps gave plenty of illumination for the area, and she saw that the man had turned to her right, as he started walking down the sidewalk.

Akira quickly turned and caught up with the man.

Akira ordered, “Hey, you. Stop.”

The man stopped in his tracked, and he turned around to face Akira.

Akira got a closer looked at the man, she stated, “I know you from somewhere.”

The man answered, “Yes. You have seen me before. Last time I saw you, you hit me in the jaw for no reason, in a bar similar to the one we just left. And I decided to walk away. And from the ruckus I heard, as I left, I believe I made the right decision.”

Akira thought over what the man said for a few minutes. Then she remembered, as she said, “The Yellowflag.”

Akira thought, 'When Revy offer my virginity to that mob. Still, I did kick there asses and then Revy's ass. Though, she, Shenhua, and Sawyer got back at me later. Still, I better apologize this man. And on that matter.'

Akira stated, “That was years ago, in another reality. By the way, I apologize for hitting you. I was forced into a position where I had to hit someone.”

The man flatly said, “Yes. I believe that was the bar's name.” His voice became softer, as he continued, “And I accept your apology. Still, I do not care who you are, nor how you hop realities. I have my own problems to deal with.”

Akira requested, “At least give me your name? And tell me what is going on with you?.”

The man responded, “No names. No locations. No reasons. No descriptions. They are always reading. Always viewing. Always hearing. I prefer to remain nameless for very important reasons, including your own safety. The enemies that I have been fighting for so long are still out there.”

Akira then heard him say under his breath, “I should have never read that book about the multiverse decades ago, back in nineteen eighty.”

Akira was shocked, as she thought, 'He is from nineteen eighty. He has lived for decades. Yet, he looks so young.'

Akira questioned, “But, you look so young?”

The man cracked a grin, as he said, “It goes with the territory. I have been waging a war with my enemies for a long time. My enemies are those who seek to prevent people from traveling across the multiverse, from reality to reality. Time to time. Place to place.”

“I know I am making a difference, and that I have already gutted their organization, because I keep meeting more and more travelers, as the years go on. Such as yourself. But, a few of them are still out there, and they want my hide.”

“Though, I do not understand why so many of the newer travelers I have met, in the last few decades, have gender changing abilities. Not that I really care. Anyway, good luck your journeys. May you find love and happiness.”

Before Akira could react, he turned around and walks away from her. As they man walked away from Akira, he literally faded from existence and into another reality.

Akira thought, 'Wow. What an exit. And I have realize clues as to who he is, or who is after him. All I know is that he situation surrounds a book that came out in nineteen eighty. What book about the multiverse came out in nineteen eighty?... Oh my god, this guy has been fighting them. No wonder we haven't run across them. I think I will say a prayer for him, before I go to sleep. We may own him a lot, and not even realize it.'

Akira was visibly rattled by what she realized, but not greatly worried.

Akira thought, 'I better head back inside, and get my friends those beers.' She then turned around, and head back inside the bar.

As Akira entered the bar, and she walked over towards the bar counter, where she saw the bartender at. As she did so, a few groups of people that caught her attention.

The first group were three adults at the nearby table, to Akira's left. One was a red haired, tanned skinned woman, whom was skinny, but not in an unhealthy way.

By the redhead, was a black haired, fair skinned man with a bushy beard. Across the table from the black haired man, and the redheaded woman, was a fair skinned woman with brown hair.

Both the red haired woman and the brown haired woman were just wearing pants and shirts. The brown haired woman wore a cloth jacket. While, the man with them wore a brown coat over pants and a shirt, under a brown long coat. He also wore shades over his eyes.

The other group that caught Akira's attention, was to her right. Akira, two individuals sitting beside each other, whom both looked like two, older teenage brothers. They had black hair and tanned skin.

As the two teenagers sat in their stools, their bodies were both facing towards each other, slightly away from the bar, allowing Akira to get a better look at them, as she passed by them. Both teenager boys wore shirts and pants. One of the boys was wearing a varsity jackets, the other boy had on a short white coat.

It was then that the bartender noticed her, and he pulled out a small circular brown plastic tray, from behind the counter. He placed seven beers on the tray. Next, he picked up and handed the tray, across the counter, to Akira.

As Akira casually took the tray, she said, “Thank you.”

The bartender nodded in reply. He then went back dealing with his many other customers.

Akira carefully took the tray upstairs to her friends table. She passed by a few waitresses, doing similar things for their customers.

When she reached the table, her friends looked over at her.

Natsuru politely asked, “What took you so long, dear?”

Akira set the tray an empty spot in the center of the table.

While Akira then handed each of them a cold bottle of beer, with her setting the last bottle by her empty chair, she answered, “I saw someone I knew.”

Natsuru said, “Interesting.”

As Akira sat down in her chair, she commented, “I will tell you later.”

Natsuru replied, “I look forward to it.”

Rock opened her fresh bottle of beer. She took a swallow of the cold liquid in inside. She then set the bottle back down on the table, in front of herself, as she stated, “Now, with Akira back. We have had our fun. And we have had a chance to relax. Now, we need to get down to business. We have to figure out how to get into Chang's Tower. And since we have one shot at this, I think we might as well go for the gold, and take Chang and his organization out, in one single attack.”

“But, we are only going to get one shot at this. So, we need to cover our asses in every way we can think of. So, let's put our cards on the table. And figure out what we have to work with. And what we need to do.”

Natsuru commented, “Chang is the backbone of his organization. When you have talked about him, and his organization. From what I can gather, nearly everyone else is either brainwashed, or just low level techs and researchers. Chang is the key. We take him out, and the whole organization falls apart. The problems is getting there, and dealing with him.”

John said, “Actually, I have done this before. Twice. It is not that difficult. This why you hired me.”

Akira stated, “We know. And both times it did not end well for you.”

John responded, “True. But, my friends and I are still breathing, So, I must have done something right with my plans. I just wish I knew what that was. Still, on the getting there, we will probably need to enter that reality and time from orbit. And then just dive right down on top of him.”

“Though, that means we will need a ship and crew that know what they are doing. We cannot do this by ourselves, and fly by the seat of our pants on this one. Like, you said Rock, we have to cover our asses on this.”

Annie pointed out, “If we are going to have to come in by ship, it will have to be a small ship. I would not be surprised if Chang parked a few Star Destroyers in geosynchronous orbit above his tower. Their defenses at likely gear for an invasion fleet, not a single ship. But, we have other matters to figure out first. Getting there will be the easy part.”

Fabiola stated, “Annie's right. We still have have to get passed Chang's boomer army. That is going to be a massive challenge, all by itself.”

Annie stated, “If Chang is anywhere as intelligent as we think he is, he likely has a single kill-switch for all the boomers. I have experience with such kill-switches as Vader. When I dealt the Separatists and their droid army.”

The others took note of Annie talking about her life as Vader in the third person.

Natsuru commented, “It is good to hear that you no longer consider yourself to be Vader.”

Annie looked around the table, as she stated, “I have recently done some soul searching, and I found that my personae as both Anakin and Vader were signs of my continued immaturity, and self-destructive impulses, went into my adulthood. I blame my personal tragedies on my poor upbringing by the Jedi Order. I have since sought to become more emotionally mature.”

Annie saw Fabiola smile back at her, after hearing her comment. Annie returned Fabiola's smile.

Rock said, “I consider your maturity to be a good sign that I made the right choice when I save you.”

Annie turned to Rock, as she kindly replied, “Thank you, Rock.”

John smiled, as he said, “It took you long enough. Just please don't flipped out, and start a fighting over lava, this time. Nor, kill all those you run across, when we get to Chang's Tower.”

Annie just looked over at John with scowl on her face, as she said, “I should have never shown you the prequels.”

John smiled widened, as he stated, “No arguments there. Between seeing you, former Mister Badass Darth Vader, as a cute little boy, made the entire first movie worth watching. And you now. It is something else. Still, why didn't you force choke Jar Jar at the first opportunity?”

Annie commented, “I did not realize he was that annoying, at the time. Remember. I was only a kid, then.”

John responded, “I can understand that. And I am sucker for young romance stories. Movie two had an okay one. I agree with you, Annie. If they included the romantic deleted scenes we also saw on the DVDs, we rented, into that movie. Those scenes would have been a great help to the romantic plot in that movie.”

Annie said, “Yes. Those were some of the best times of my life. I consider meeting Padme's parents, and them liking me, to be one of the highlights of my time with her.”

John commented, “And the hamminess of movie three has to be seen to be believed.”

Annie stated, “I realized you were a fan of hams, during our meeting with Chang. Still, I was there, in person. Remember. Both in the movies, and watching the movies with you. Now, that is screwed up.”

John smile turned warm, as he replied, “No arguments there, sweetheart. Even with the bad stuff in there. That trilogy gave me so much ammunition to tease and joke you about for the next month afterward. While we were in San F.”

Annie playfully said, “John, I do still have my force powers. Even though they are crippled at the moment. But, I am sure, if I concentrated hard enough, I could force choke you.”

John smirk widened, as he commented, “With this group, being force choked would likely increase my street cred.”

Annie just rolled her eyes, as the other five adults giggled at John's comment.

Rock had silently watched Annie and John, verbally spar, as she thought, 'John is the only person I know of, that is crazy enough to knowingly tease Darth Vader... Well, Annie, to her face. On a continual basis. Then again, John has done this before. John never let up teasing Scorpius, in the Farscape series. And Scorpius is about as dangerous a badass as Darth Vader can be.'

'Still, it is clear both of them consider this teasing to be playful. And I am not going to stay anything about this, because I don't want to encourage John to continue this madness.'

Akira commented, “John does have a point. We do not want to be reckless and take chances. Also, we would minimize the casualties. I do care about many of the others we will be fighting, including the girls. And so do the others here.” She turned to Annie, as she teased, “And you really were cute, as a little boy.”

Annie looked at the gunslinger, as she cautioned, “Don't start, Akira.”

Akira playfully stuck her tongue out, at Annie, for a second.

Annie could not hide her smile from the others. And thus, she showed that she was nowhere near as annoyed as she pretended she was.

Annie halfheartedly said, “Alright. I will try to restrain myself.”

Ranma stated, “I may not be the most technical person on the team. But, I agree with John. Chang has likely seen those movies too. Still, he has a kick-switch. I doubt Megatron will be able to hack his way into Chang's computers, to use it.”

Fabiola said, “Ranma is likely correct. We cannot just turn the boomers off before we get there. We are going to need to keep Chang's boomer army distracted, as we go around them. The question is how are we going to distract them?”

Akira grinned wickedly, as she commented, “The question is more of, who is going to distract the boomers? Or, offer a distraction, as a target, for Chang to send his boomers after.”

Rock understood what Akira was getting at. She stated, “I think I know where you are going, Akira. We are going to need to find people whom can provide a distraction for Chang's army, while we get into the tower, and personally take him down.”

Akira replied, “Correct Rock.”

John stated, “I get where you both are going. We need a distraction, to keep Chang's forces busy, while we sneak inside the tower. But, we do not need a distraction. We need distractions. We need big distractions. We need The Distraction. The granddaddy of all distractions. We need an army composed of one man armies.”

“People we know that could not be caught, nor stopped, no matter how many times our enemies tried. With this group put together, that Chang would be forced to send his boomer armies after. Or, he, and his organization would be crushed by them.”

Annie pointed out, “I agree. But, there is a minor problem with this plan. The best chance for us to make it to the ground is a single gunboat. And with one ship, we will have limited space. We will need to to limit the number of people we bring with us”

The rest of the group just looked at her.

Annie defended herself, as she said, “Hey. I watched the original trilogy. of my movies. Even though those events personally did not happen to me. And that plan, in episode six, worked for my kids. So, why not us?”

John took control of the situation, as he stated, “As Annie was saying. Yes. It has to be a small crew. I think we pair it down to four people. If we can get the right four people to do the job. The first person we need is the leader of the team. Someone with a good heart, and whom is used to dealing with psychos. Yet, he has to be an escape artist, who has taken whole armies down by himself. This person has to have no problem destroying boomers, but does not want to kill humans. And he needs to be able to keep the rest of the team in line, from going crazy and killing humans.”

Ranma suggested, “How about Vash The Stampede, from the Trigun series? He sounds like he fits your needs.”

The rest the group just nodded in agreement.

Rock stated, “Good idea. Though, I suggest we pull Vash, and the others we pick, out of their realities, after their series has concluded. Or, we rescue them from alternate realities that are already messed up.”

John responded, “Excellent point. The next member has to be a heavy weapons specialist. Personally, from all of the realities I know of, I would pick Duke Nukem, from his video games. That uses the same title as his name. With his custom rocket propelled grenade launcher, he can lay down an ungodly amounts of destruction. Save for creating a blackhole and nuclear weapons. He would put even most of my personal works of destruction to shame. But, I have no idea where to find him.”

Natsuru stated, “I think I know where one version of him is. When I talked to Futaba after our crazy adventure through the multiverse, he told me that as a girl, he to passed the time in the MIB reality, by playing video games they provided him. This included Duke Nukem. He said afterward that Nukem looked a lot like his P.E. coach at his old high school. Whom went by the name, Strike.”

“And given some of the crazy training, Futaba told me, that his P.E. coach put his students through. Along with the war stories Strike told Futaba, and the others, I would guess that the P.E. coach is Duke Nukem. The problem is this would be Duke Nukem after he retired. Though, Futaba mentioned that he wasn't that old. Maybe forty. Tops. And he was still in great shape.”

Rock commented, “That is a lead worth checking out.”

John agreed, “Yes. It is. Next, we need a close combat specialist. Someone that is skilled enough, crazy enough, and unkillable enough, to get close to these death machines without dying, while still being able to cause these killer machines some serious damage.”

Akira and Natsuru looked at each other for a second. Akira asked, “You thinking about the same person I am?”

Natsuru replied, “I believe so. He does have a healing factor.”

Akira commented, “And he is crazy enough.”

Natsuru, and Akira then turned to the rest of the group, as Akira said, “I believe that Deadpool would be the man you are looking for.”

John responded, “Right. Hmm. We just need to remember to bring plenty of earplugs, before we meet him. Now, the fourth member has to be able to fill the in the gaps, and be able to support any of the three other team members at a moments notice. But, he still has to have the skills and abilities to hold his own.”

Annie said, “I have someone in mind.”

Rock asked, “Boba Fett?

Annie replied, “Yes.”

Rock complimented, “Good choice.”

John stated, “And this brings us to one major problem. We got to find a small ship and crew, with the abilities, and willingness, to fly into a deathtrap. That involves getting through a Star Destroyer blockade, thought the atmosphere at high speed, without burning up, and landing right beside a city sized fortress, that is filled with an army death machines. Honestly. I do not have an idea of whom we find to do that. Especially, one that we could afford to pay.”

Fabiola said, “I think I have an idea of whom we could offer the job to. There was a short TV series and good movie, that Roberta, the young master, and I enjoyed to watch. I think the series was called, Firefly, and sequel movie was named after their ship, Serenity.”

Akira thought about it for a few seconds. She then complimented, in a kind tone of voice, “Fabiola, my dear, you have such wonderful tastes in fiction.”

Fabiola smiled at her in response.

Rock said, “Mal, and the crew of the Serenity, it is. But, the question is, can we afford to pay them.”

Akira stated, “Well, we do have access to advanced technology. And they are wanted fugitives in their own reality. In exchange for their services, we could offer to help set them in another reality, and allow them to have a fresh start. With some spending money, as well.”

“Though, I don't think they will go for Megatron hacking bank computer. We will probably have to pay them in gold. But, I am sure we find some gold, somewhere.”

“And we are not asking them to fight for us. Just drop us off, escape, and wait for us, elsewhere. Maybe a location we recommend. With a good plan, b, if we fail.”

Rock responded, “Akira. That is not a bad idea. I think Mal, and his crew, might go for that.”

Natsuru commented, “Besides. Chances are Chang is already after them.”

Annie inquired, “Then, could they already be caught?”

Natsuru answered, “Given what that crew has already been through. I highly doubt they have already been caught.”

(_)

At that moment, across the street, on the roof of a three story building, behind the parapet, Revy keeled on one knee, in her biker's outfit, was watching the her prey in the windows of the building.

Revy thought, 'I think it was a good idea, on Roberta's part, to lock the local cops up, in their own jail cells, before we came to this part of town. Now, no one will disturb us. We will just wait till our friends in there leave. And then we catch them. After which, Rock, we can finally have some real fun together. And I must say, Rock, you look so hot as a woman.'

Suddenly, someone walked beside her, to her right side. The person then keeled down against the parapet, next to Revy.

When Revy turned turned to her right side, to see who it was, she was shook at seeing herself, in her usual clothing. Of black crop top, blue short-shorts, green boots, and her semi-automatic pistol in their shoulder holsters.

The other Revy turned to Revy, as she greeted her, by kindly saying, “Hi sister.”

Revy said, “I have no memory of this.”

The other Revy replied, “That is because I am from your future. Don't worry. Just continue on your present course, and we will be fine.”

Revy asked, “So, who are you after?”

The other Revy used her right hand to point at group of three, one man, two women, on the first floor, at a table. The man had black hair and a full black beard. One of the women had red hair, and the other woman had brown hair. She replied, “I am after those three.”

Revy turned to look at the people she was pointing at. She turned responded, “Interesting. So, why are you after those three?”

The other Revy dropped her right hand to her side, as she turned to face Revy. She answered, “Long story. Though, you will find out someday. So, have you taken a good look at Rock now?”

Revy stated, “Yea. And girl, Rock has become one hot woman.”

The other Revy made a leering smile, as she replied, “Yep. And she looked like the Rock from that omake.”

Revy commented, “Well, I am happy that Rock and I are bi-sexual. Because I really want to continue our relationship. All I got to do is capture her, brainwash her, then it is a matter of popping her cherry. And I am going to show her a good time, when I do that.”

The other Revy giggled a little. She then said, “I wouldn't worry about our relationship with Rock. I cannot go into detail. But, I will tell you this. She still love you as much as you love her.”

Revy smiled, as she replied, “Good.”

It was then that both Revys heard a cling to their right side.

Both of the Revys turned to see two tanned, red haired, older teenage girls walked up to them, by the parapet. They looked like sisters around the same age, though they were not identical twins.

One of the redheads had just leaned her large machine gun, which created the clang. The large machine gun with beta c-mag style, double drum magazine attached to it, that could hold a hundred rounds in all, from both drums.

The other redhead had a part of sheathed long knives strapped to her back, like Akira did.

Both teenage girls turned to looked at the Revys.

Both Revy turned towards them, as they asked, in unison, “Who are you two?”

Both teenage girls smirked, as they said, in unison, “Hi mommies.”

Revy turned to the other Revy, as she asked, “You had some kids?”

The other Revy answered, “Yea. But, they are small children.”

The redhead with the machine gun stated, “We are from the future. Sorry about startling you, but this thing can get kinda heavy.”

The other Revy said, “Well, it looks like I did a good job with you rugrats.”

Both of them said, “You did.”

Revy interrupted them, “As much I love the lovey dovy, I have a question. Who is the father, since Rock is a girl?”

The other Revy, and the two girls just laughed.

The other Revy said, “Don't worry about it. Let's just you love life is going to get very interesting in the future.” The other Revy then turned to the girls, as she asked, “Daughters, are the other girls with you?”

The redhead with the long knives answered, “Yea. They are just waiting nearby for the word to attack. Just like your two groups.”

The other Revy commented, “We taught them so well. So, who are you two after?”

The girls pointed to two teenage boys at the bar table. The redhead with the machine gun stated, “We are after those two brothers.”

The other Revy asked, “So, who are the two brothers? And why are you after them?”

The redhead with the long knives stated, “We would love to tell you. But, you know the rules. No talking about the future. Except for the obvious.”

Revy stated, “Well, given none of us want to break reality, we are going to have to wait for them to leave and separate into their groups. Even I realize that attacking them now would be a very bad idea. This could take a while.”

(_)

A couple of hours later, the bar was closing.

The only ones left were the three groups of people, and the bartender. Even the rest of the bar staff had left.

Without realizing it, the three groups left in a row for the entrance doors.

The first group were the two women and the black bearded man.

The bearded man said, “So, where do you guys want to go to next?”

The group of three headed out the door, and started walking straight across the street.

(_)

The second group was Rock's group.

As the seven of them exited, Rock said, “At least we now have a plan.”

The seven of them then headed for their right, were they left Megatron in his alt mode.

(_)

The last group were the brothers.

The one in the jacket said, to the one in the short white lab coat, “We still got to figure out what is going on.”

The boy in the white lab coat agreed, “True. But now, we won't get lost.”

The boy in the jacket commented, “It is a step forward in our situation.”

The two teenage boys headed to their left.

(_)

Suddenly, everyone heard a strange, almost electronic voice say, “Ladies and Gentlemen. A moment of your time.”

That all turned to see that it was the alien, Star Wars bounty hunter, Cad Bane, in his usual clothing and weapons, including his two holstered blaster pistols, across the street from them.

Cad Bane said, “I want no trouble from any of you. I am only after the boys.” Cad then pointed at the two teenage boys.”

(_)

Bearded man, looked over at the boys, then at Cad. He brushed open his long coat, as he put his hand on his holstered pistol. He stated, “I don't know who those boys are, but you are not taking them anywhere, Bane.”

(_)

The brothers turned to look at the other two groups, and their eyes when wide.

(_)

Then, from Rock's group, Ranma asked, “You and what army?”

(_)

This time, the three people in the middle group turned to face Rock's group and their eyes went wide.

(_)

Cad Bane crossed his arms, as he smiled. He replied, “This one.”

Suddenly, an army of robots, with energy rifles in their hands, appeared right in front him.

Everyone looked at each other, and then made a run back into the bar for cover.

The bartender saw all this. He swiftly ducked under the bar table.

As Everyone made back into the bar, they rushed for cover wherever they could find it, just before the robots opened fire.

(_)

John and the teenager with the white coat had jumped over the bar table, and joined the bartender behind it.

When they looked over at the bartender, they noticed that he had pulled out his shotgun.

The bartender said to them, “Relax gentlemen, this isn't my first rodeo. Just stay down. I used to have to deal with this a lot in the city I previously lived in. That is why I left place. My old bar must have been trashed or destroyed over two dozen times. I lived through each time without a scratch to myself. The only reason I escaped that town when things started getting weird there. I am so glad I listened to the warning that kid the russian brought into my bar one night. I almost waited to long to leave.”

The boy in the white coat asked, “How weird?”

The bartender answered, “I started losing more male customers and gaining more hotter, younger adult female customers. That part I didn't really mind. Who am I to complain about some free eye candy. Until, I realized that many of the women similar to the men I use to serve. But, they were like their sexy, younger sisters. For some reason, I noticed that my chinese customers were first. And they even told the same jokes.”

“It was then and there that I decided it was time to bugout and leave. But, right before I left, the last person in the world I expected, walked into my bar, just after I had closed it for good.. It was a caucasian man named, Caxton.”

The boy interrupted, “Caxton? As in Shane Caxton?”

The bartender was surprised, as he asked, “You've met him?”

The boy replied, “Yea. Don't worry about him. He is doing fine.”

The bartender smiled, “That is good to hear. Anyway, I later learned that since Caxton had experience with the town before, the U.S. government sent him and a squad into to find out what was happening there. But, they were ambushed, with only him escaping. Even though it has been decades, we still recognized each other. And I owed him for helping get my ass out of my homeland.”

“We quickly realized that the exits to the island were cut off. And if we were going to escape, we were going to have to journey deeper into hell, and that damned tower. I had never fought so hard to escape somewhere since the fall of Saigon. And the horrors saw...”

“We just lucked out when we found that strange portal system. We were able to get it working. We randomized the coordinates. Caxton went first. I then changed the coordinates, and left myself. But, not before leaving a bag full of plastic explosives to destroy the machine and any record it had of where we went.”

“And I end up here. Now, I am starting to think I am cursed to face craziness like this.”

The boy in the white coat and John said, in unison, “Welcome to the club.”

The bartender stated, “Still, don't worry. The walls of this counter can take anything up to a fifty caliber round. If we keep our heads down, we should be fine. And you two look like the type who don't want to join in on the chaos unless they had too.”

The boy in the coat just nodded an affirmative.

John replied, “You got that right. Still, it does not hurt to be prepared.” He then pulled out his pulse pistol.

The bartender cocked his shotgun, as he stated, “That is why I keep this shotgun. Just in case the trouble gets to close to me.”

The boy then turned to John, as he greeted, “By the way, hi John.”

John was confused, as he asked, “Do I know you?”

The boy explained, “I just came from meeting you. Oh right, it must have been you from your future.”

John inquired, “How far in the future?”

The boy responded, “How old is your son?”

John stated, “He is still a baby.”

The boy responded, “When I meet you, your son is around ten years old. So, look on the bright side, you are likely going to get out of this alive.”

John just smiled at the revelation.

(_)

Meanwhile, Akira, the bearded man, and the boy with the jacket took cover behind a turned up table, with their backs facing the table.

Akira pulled out her pistols.

To her right, the bearded man pulled out his revolver. As he looked over at Akira, he cursed under his breath, “Crap.”

At the exact same time, the boy wearing the jacket looked over at the beard man, and he muttered, “Crap.”

Akira then noticed the bearded man's revolver. She asked him, “Where did you get that revolver from?”

The man smirked, “The same place you did, blondie. You got to admit that gunsmith makes quality weapons there.”

Akira admitted, “That's true.”

The man commented, “You are aware the gunsmith is Burt Gummer from the Tremors movies?”

Akira giggled, as she replied, “So, that is where I saw him from. No. I did not realize that. But, it makes a lot of sense. And to think I have customized firearms by one of the greatest gun nuts in the multiverse is a real treat.”

The man bearded smirked, as he said, “I know. That is one of the reasons I got my pistol from Burt, as well.”

(_)

Nearby, Rock, Fabiola, and the brown haired woman, took cover behind a turned up table.

As Rock pulled out her sonic shotgun, she look over at the brown haired woman. She inquired, “You look familiar. Have we met?”

The brown haired woman pulled out her semi-automatic pistol, from her shoulder holster, hidden under her jacket. She pulled back the slide of her weapon, to chamber a round, as she answered in english, with a heavy russian accent, “I just have that type of face.”

Fabiola pulled out her shotgun, as she stated, “It doesn't matter. What matters is we have another gun to aid us.”

The woman complimented, “Good attitude.”

Fabiola replied, “Thank you, ma'am.”

(_)

Behind another turned over table were Annie, Ranma, Natsuru, and the red headed skinny woman.

The skinny woman sat between Ranma and Natsuru.

Natsuru took a good look at the skinny girl. She looked to be in her mid-twenties, but her face, and hair style, were unmistakable.

Natsuru asked the girl, “Are you Ed from Cowboy Bebop?”

The woman smiled. She hugged both Natsuru and Ranma by the shoulders, as she said, “Yep. Ed has enjoyed the fun she has had with you two, and the blond. The others we face. Not so fun.”

Natsuru thought with fear, 'Oh crap! If she is from our future, and the others are, we could be facing a paradox of epic proportions.'

Natsuru turned to Annie, as she requested, “Annie, please use the force to tell us what the hell is going on?”

Annie eyes were wide. She stated, “Chaos.”

(_)

Outside, on the roof across from the bar, the two Revys and two teenage girls, watched what was happening.

The Revy in the red biker outfit said, “Whomever that guy is, he just screwed the pooch.”

The redheaded girl with the long knives pointed up at the sky, as she stated, “Look!”

Everyone looked up and saw that the night sky appeared to be breaking apart with energy.

Revy cursed, “Oh hell, this is getting a whole lot worse. Whatever is going on down there creating a paradox. We have to fix this now.” She turned to the other Revy, as she pointed out, “Since I am here, why don't you remember this?

The redhead with the machine gun said, “Mommy sometimes has a bad memory.”

The other Revy just shrugged.

Revy ordered, “Just great. Okay, everyone, go get your friends. We got to take care of those robots and fix this right now.”

The redhead with the machine gun, picked up her machine gun, leaning against the inside of the parapet, as all four women when get their friends to help clean this mess up.

(_)

Inside the bar, everyone could not make an offensive move, as the robots refused to let up on their weapons fire.

(_)

Outside, Cad Bane just laughed. He would have the boys, and collect his bounty.

It was then that he noticed something falling from above.

He looked up. He then cursed, “Oh damn.”

Cad Bane immediately used a device he had, to jump to another reality, right before he and the robots were attacked.

(_)

Inside, everyone noticed the weapons fire above their heads had stopped.

For about a minute, they heard the sounds of battle outside.

A minute afterward, everyone, but the bartender, peeked their heads over the table.

What they saw outside caused their jaws to drop.

The streets lights on the sidewalks were still mostly intact and functioning, as the lights provided plenty of light for the groups inside to see the groups standing outside.

Those inside saw the four Hell Sabers in their hardsuits, to their right, with Arcee, in robot mode, standing behind them, holding her flaming swords. In their hardsuits, Revy had her knuckle-bombers ready, Sawyer had her wrist blades popped out, Roberta's shoulder missile pods were popped up, and Shenhua had one of her ignited lightsabers in each hand.

In the middle were Sawyer, Revy, and Shenhua in their usually clothing, holding classic their weapons. Sawyer with her chainsaw, Revy with her semi-automatic cutlasses, and Shenhua with her two kukri long knives.

And to their left were eight teenage woman in sexy clothing. Of the eight girls, five were holding various weapons, the other three were barehanded, and they looked just as badass as the other seven.

The first of the ones with weapons, from Bad Company's point of view, from right to left, was a tanned skin redhead holding what looked to be two 1827 Russian Pioneer short swords, like what Akira used.

The girl next to her was another tanned redhead, that look to be her sister, but not identical, look to be holding a large machine gun up with both hands, with little effort.

The middle teenage girl was a dark skinned girl with brown dreadlocks. She had on two sci-fi looking gantlets on each of her hands, that went up almost to her elbows.

A short burst of flame harmlessly erupted from each of the two gantlets.

The next teenager girl had tanned skin with blond hair. She was holding two stainless steel semi-automatic pistols, similar to Revy's cutlasses, that were from her two shoulder holsters.

The final teenage girl with weapons was another blood girl with tanned skin. She looked like she was the other blond girl's sister, but they did look somewhat different. She held out a katana in front of her with both hands.

On the other side of the girl with the katana, was a girl with blue hair and black highlights. Her left hand was in a fist, as flames surrounded it. Meanwhile, her right hand was open, with her palm facing upwards, as a fireball was right above her open palm.

Next to the blue haired girl was a green haired girl, whom had her hands and fingers outstretched in front of her, with the palms of both hands facing six inches from each other.

Lightning laced between the green haired girl's hands and fingers.

To the side of the green haired girl was a purple haired girl, whom held up her left hand, with her left palm upwards. A floating globe of water stood less than an inch above her left open palm. In her right hand was a staff made of ice.

All of the women were standing above the destroyed remains of the robots that they had just attacked and destroyed without suffering any injuries.

(_)

The black bearded man said, “That is probably the most badass assemblage of babes in the entire existence of the multiverse.”

Both Akira and the boy in the varsity jacket just nodded in agreement.

(_)

Outside, after looking a the carnage they all had just caused, Future Revy, the Revy in the center of the group, in her usual clothing, turned to her daughters, as she said, “Mommy is very proud of you.”

The two redheads in the female teenage group smiled at her.

(_)

Rock heard the comment, as she thought, 'Revy becomes a mother. I do not like where is going. It is almost like what I saw at the...'

(_)

Outside, the red headed girl holding the machine gun asked, “Is it okay if I handle this?”

Both Revys said, in unison, “Sure.”

The teenage girl with the machine gun, let of the forearm of her machine gun, with her left hand, as she held her weapon by its grip, with her right hand. At the same time, she pointed her weapon at the ground, while keeping her trigger finger resting against the trigger guard.

The girl with the machine gun yelled, “First of all! Stop talking to each other! Reasons for this will soon become clear as to why you should not speak to each other! Now, we have no interest in attacking you right now, so don't make us come in there! It would not be pretty! Now, everyone get out here! Group back up, and come out! Rock and her group to your right! The group of three in the middle! The brothers to the your left!”

Everyone did as they were requested to do.

A minute later, they were outside and in their proper groups.

The redhead with the machine gun then pointed to the sky, with her left hand. She ordered, “Everyone! Look up!”

They did so and saw that the night sky seem to be literally breaking apart.

The teenage girl stated, “This is what happens when you have a paradox.”

She pointed at Rock's group, “Past.”

She pointed at the three people, “Present.”

She pointed at the brothers, “Future.”

The girl continued, “All of you are intelligent people. So, I think you have figured out what is going on here. All three of your groups need to leave and avoid each other in the future. Do not worry about answers. If things go the way they should, you will all live to have your questions answered in the fullness of time. And just because we are being nice, we are giving you all a head start. Consider this our good deed for the year.”

The Hell Saber members, both present and future, along with the teenage girls all laughed for a few seconds.

(_)

The groups looked at each other for a moment. Then, they looked back up at the sky. They all realized, as much as they wanted to talk to each other, they couldn't. Less than a minute later, each group went their separate ways.

(_)

As everyone else left, the girls all saw the sky starting to return to the normal dark night.

The Revy in her hardsuit said, “Well, that crisis has been averted. So, let us all go get a drink to celebrate saving existence. Even you teenagers can come. I was never one for that twenty-one years or older rule.

The other Revy agreed, “You got that right.”

The teenager girls smiled at them.

As they all entered the destroyed bar, the Hell Sabers removed their helmets.

The Revy in her usual clothing yelled, “Hey bartender! We know you're alive! We could use some service!”

(_)

Behind the bar counter, the bartender's eyes went wide, as he tightly gripped his shotgun.

He thought, with a combination of fear and rage, 'Not that demon woman's voice! Damn you! Damn you! Damn you! How could I be so unlucky?! I crossed entire realities to get away from you, and you still found a way to wreck my bar!'

He then heard Revy's voice, which was just above the bar, warned, “Don't make us pull you out.”

He immediately jumped up and pointed the barrel of his shotgun at the Revy he saw was wearing her usual outfit, as he yelled, “Damn you, Revy! You destroyed my bar, again!”

He then saw the group she was with.

There was a Revy, with her cutlasses, and a second Revy in power armor, pointing her gauntlet mounted railguns at the bartender.

Shenhua, with her long knives, and a second Shenhua in power armor, holding two lightsabers.

Sawyer, with her chainsaw, and a second Sawyer in power armor, with wrist blades popped out.

The maid, Roberta, with cybernetics and in a power armor, pointing her wrist mounted firearms as the bartender.

Eight teenage girls that looked as dangerous as the rest.

There was a blond haired girl holding two semi-automatic stainless steel pistols, like the weapons Revy used.

There was another blond girl holding a katana.

By those two was a dark skinned girl with gantlets on her hands.

Then there was a redhead holding two long knives.

An other redhead holding a large machine gun.

A purple haired girl was holding a staff made of ice.

A green haired girl with lightning erupting from both her hands.

A blue haired girl with black highlights with fire surrounding her hands.

And behind all of them was a large pink robot, that barely was able to clear the ceiling, whom was hold two giant flaming swords in her hands, that were point towards him, over the heads of the other women there.

All of them were pointing their weapons, or powers, at him.

The Revy in her usual clothing asked, with curiosity, “Bao, is that you? It is you! We wondered what happened to you.”

At such a fearful sight right in front of him, a lesser man, facing these women alone, would have soiled themselves, and passed out. Bao just slightly wet himself.

Bao slowly lowered his weapon onto the bar counter, as he said in best calm manner he could in his nervous state, “Ladies. The drinks are on the house.”

The Revy in the power armor said, “Thanks Bao. But, you are still coming with us. Good bartenders are so hard to find. And trust me. You will like having your life extended, even at the price we are giving you.”

(_)

Five minutes later, Rock's team made it to the a parting lot, near the bar, where Megatron was park, in his car lot mode. The car had its side windows rolled down, and the roof lowered.

The team then got into the car, in their their usual places, among the seats.

Megatron asked, “How were things at the bar?”

John stated, “Weirder than usual? I met someone that knows my future self.”

Akira commented, “You are not the only one.”

Natsuru said, “Ranma and I met an adult Ed from Cowboy Bebop that knew us.”

Annie stated, “We almost had a paradox. But, fortunately it was averted.”

Megatron said, “That explains the weird energy readings I was getting, a few minutes ago.”

Ranma commented, “That was likely the possible paradox starting to form. Though, it didn't form. And it is nice that even our enemies know better than to risk the destruction of reality itself.”

Rock stated, “That is because they want to enjoy what they have, no crush it all into bits of nothing.”

Natsuru asked, “On another matter. How are we going to fit all four of those guys in this car?” She looked around at the three other girls in the backseat with her, as she commented, “We are already tightly packed in here.”

Megatron stated, “As long as they are nearby, and on myself, they will safely jump with us.”

Rock cracked a grin, as she said, “They can sit on the hood and trunk.”

Fabiola commented, “We need to also go pick up some environmental space suits. Before we looked the Serenity crew. Given they are in a spaceship.”

John stated, “Moya has plenty of them in all sizes. After we get the other four, we will stop by there real quick. They will not even know we were there.”

Rock complimented, “Intelligent thinking Fabiola and John. Now, let us get this ball rolling.”

Rock pulled out her reality key, and she then used it, in Megatron, to start the hunt for the new team they are creating.

(_)

Trigun Reality. Planet Gunsmoke. Noon, in the middle of the day, in the desert.

In the ruins of a long since abandoned two, Vash the Stampede, in his red duster and usual clothing, was in a running battle with three robotic monstrosities.

Vash was a slender man, in good shape, whom had fair skin, and short blond hair.

There were two blue human size armor cybernetic robots, and one larger brown cybernetic robot with a lance on the end of it's right forearm.

As Vash had been dodging weapons fire from the group of robots, he noted that the blue robots had heat panels on their chests, an energy cannon in their mouths, and claws that came out of their forearms. For the larger brown robots, Vash saw that the lance the brown robot had on its right forearm had a machine gun on the outer middle of the length of the lance. While, the brown robot also had a rocket launcher located at the tip of the lance, where the lance made a point, in the shape of a circular barrel.

Vash was usually against killing of forms of live. Especially people. But, these things didn't care about life, and they would kill anything that got in their way.

These cybernetic robots lacked compassion of any type for life around them, and they had to be stopped.

Vash also realized that whomever has sent these monsters after Vash expected a fight. They had originally sent six of the blue monsters and three of the brown monsters.

Though, Vash, with his six round revolver, and several speed loaders worth of rounds. Along with the ammo from his holdout gun.

Vash's holdout gun the was sub-machine gun that was located inside his cybernetic left arm. The weapon popped out of the front of his wrist, with his artificial left hand sliding down when the weapon. With his artificial left hand grasping the trigger and grip of the sub-machine gun, when it was ready for use.

With these weapons, Vash was already able to take down four other blue monsters, and two brown monsters, by using several well placed shots, between the chinks their armor in the chests, necks, and heads of the monsters.

Vash opened open the chamber of his top break revolver, using his second to last loaded speed loader to rearm his revolver. As he reloaded his weapon, he thought, 'Three to go. Fortunately, I got twelve more bullets left. That should be enough for these things. I do not want to use my angel arm. Still, once I am finished with them, I can find out who sent these things after me.'

Just as Vash was about to jump out of his hiding place, he heard the sounds of gun fire, explosions, and the twisting of metal.

When he popped his head up to see what was going on, he was surprised to find the monsters there were already destroyed.

The cybernetic robots were twisted piles of broken metals. Standing over them was a fair skinned woman, in a white blouse and dark pants, with a small looking gun in her right hand.

To the woman's right side, was a red haired woman wearing red clothing, with golden bracers on her forearmed. To the right of the redhead, was a blue haired woman in a white shirt, and a short black skirt. The blue haired woman had flames coming off her right hand, but it looked like the flames were not harming her right hand. To the right of the blue haired woman was a blond woman in a cowgirl outfit, holding a revolver in each of her hands.

To the black haired woman's left side was a brown haired woman in pants and a shirt, while holding an energy blade. To the left of the brown haired woman was a green haired woman in black leather clothing, whom was holding two semi-automatic pistols. And to the left of the green haired woman was brown haired man in black clothing and red vest jacket, holding a strange looking pistol in his right hand.

Standing behind the group of people, was a large chrome robot.

The blond woman said, “Judging from the remains we found around these ruins, this man took out six boomers. Four combat boomers, and two battle boomers with just a revolver, and sub-machine gun.”

The brown haired man said, “This looked like this is the guy we are looking for.”

The black haired woman, wearing the white blouse and dark pants, politely said, to Vash, “You look like you needed some help. And we could also use your help.”

Vash gave the group of people a warm smile, as he replied, in a kind tone of voice, “How can I be of help?”

(_)

Akira's reality. Residential area of Tokyo Japan. Middle of the day. A year and two months after Akira, Ranma, and Natsuru left Aspen Colorado, with Rock's team, to travel the multiverse.

Megatron mentioned that it was a year and two month after they had left that reality.

Before Ranma could get worried, Akira had commented that it was a small problem. That they would just return to their proper time period, when their adventure was over. And they would avoid the area they are in during this time, until then.

For Rock's team, finding Duke Nukem was not hard to find. When they got to the reality, Akira had called Futaba, and Futaba told them that she knew where his physical education coach lived.

Since Akira was from the past, she was careful with her questions. So, as to not learn to much about the future. And Akira was able to get the information, without learning anything about the future.

When their team reached the home of Mister Strike, they found the home was wrecked. With boomer parts in and around the home.

They realized that Chang's boomers had recently beaten them to Strike's home. But, from the looks of it, and the sounds of battle in the distance, the fight was not over, yet.

They also realize that this prove that Mister Strike was the man they were looking for.

To prevent outside interference, Megatron hacked the local government computers to falsify police orders to state the matter was being handled.

Vash stayed with Megatron, as the group pulled out two weapons from Megatron's trunk.

Vash and Megatron would stay behind, in case Mister Strike double-backed to his home.

If that happened, given Vash's personality, it would likely be able to talk Mister Strike down. With them then waiting for the other members of Rock's team to come back to meet them.

Meanwhile, Rock, and the rest of her team headed to find Mister Strike.

They realized that finding Mister Strike would not be hard. They just followed sounds of explosions, the wreckage of boomers parts along the streets, and yards of the houses nearby.

(_)

The retired badass mercenary, Duke 'Nukem' Strike, was having a very bad day.

Before today, Duke actually loved his retirement as the high school physical education coach at Komatane High School, in Tokyo Japan.

While there, he got to teach the younger generations to become stronger, better people.

He picked physical education because it allowed him to train both the students minds and bodies. He helped them train their bodies, while he used his war stories to teach them lessons, and inspire them to become badasses.

He had high hopes especially from the Shimeru family. His former student, Futaba, showed such potential at being a badass.

Though, Duke had to admit to himself, he was surprised when he learned the gender bending, back and forth was possible.

Duke first learned this, years ago, from his war buddy, follow mercenary, Alex Shimeru.

Duke and Alex had done many missions together for years. They were best friends, and drinking buddies. At the time, Duke just thought Alex was a guy, like himself.

Then, one night Alex had too many drinks and passed on out Duke, and Alex changed into a woman.

That was went Duke learned that Alex stood for Alexandra, and not Alexander.

No that Duke really minded. He seen a lot of strange things in his life. This was just par for course, for him.

The next morning, after Alex sobered up, Duke got the story on Shimeru family gender bending abilities, and the basics on how those abilities worked, and were triggered.

Alex was happy that Duke did not mind, and that Duke would agree to keep her secret.

As far as Duke was concerned, Alex had the best of both world. He could be the badass, action guy drink buddy, or the hot asskicking babe.

Also, this revelation opened up more job opportunities for the both of them. Missions required a man and woman, instead of two men.

When Duke finally decided to retired, Alex decided to continue his mercenary job, as a guy. While Alex kept her private life as a woman. Which Duke found to be a very good way for Alex to keep her civilian life secret.

Though, Alex did convince Duke to move to Japan. Alex even pulled a few strings in japanese government to get Duke a green card and a job at Komatane High School, as the P.E. Coach.

Fortunately, Duke knew a number of languages, including japanese. So, there was no language barrier issue. And outside of his mercenary work, Duke was a model, law abiding citizen, whom just loved high-powered weaponry.

Besides, too many people knew his face back in the states.

As time went on, Duke learned even more about the Shimeru family.

Duke learned the secret behind the real identity of super model, Iroka Kahoru.

Duke was even the best man at Alex and Iroka's wedding. Where Alex was the groom, and Iroka was the bride.

Duke found that to be a fun wedding. And he happy to hear, that while both the bride and groom were from the same family, they were distantly related.

And presently, Alex was married a super model, had two good kids. Which her husband gave birth too. While she maintained a secret mercenary career, as a man. Sure the gender bending made things weird, but Duke admitted that Alex was living the dream.

Alex even made Duke the godfather to Futana and Futaba.

Duke was truly honored that Alex would do that.

Duke even heard that Futaba was able to father two children from his spouses, which was suppose to be a physical impossibility for Shimeru born originally male.

Duke wondered if his teaches and inspirations help Futaba become so manly, even after giving birth to twins herself, to actually do the impossible.

Duke felt pride for his former student.

Though, on the matter at hand, Duke knew that if he was caught keeping his weapons in his home, by the Japanese police, they would have his ass, but his gut told him to keep them.

For he knew that someday he might someday need those weapons.

And that day finally arrive. For today, he needed those weapons, and he was glad he had them on hand.

The whole incident started that morning. Right before he was going to his job at school. When six blue combat boomer broke down Duke's front door.

Duke had already dress for his high school job. He was wearing a black sleeveless t-shirt, jeans, a black leather belt, army boots, his dog-tags as necklace around his neck, and he had his sunglasses on, over his eyes.

Along with his fair skin, his blond hair was styled into a crew cut.

This was not the first time he had fought boomers. Several years ago, during the times he had to fight off alien invasions, single-highhandedly, in one adventure, he got caught into a teleporter accident that sent him to another reality.

The reality of MegaTokyo, in early two thousand thirty-four.

There he met the armor babes, the Knight Sabers, and had some fun adventures with them, as he destroyed some boomers.

This was where Duke first learned japanese, and about Japanese culture. And though the language barrier was an issue at first, he was a fast learner, and he came to have a working understanding of the language by the time he left MegaTokyo.

Eventually, Duke found a way to return to his reality and time. But, he never forgot his time in MegaToyko.

And from that adventure, after he returned to his home reality, home country, and proper time period, Duke had gain an interest in japanese culture. And he soon master the japanese language.

Still, after Duke left MegaTokyo, he hoped that his advise to the boy with the Knight Sabers, Mackie, would help get that kid laid with the pink haired babe, Nene.

Fortunately, given Duke was still in peak physical shape, along with his experience and skills, these six combat boomers were not that difficult for him to handle.

Duke used a combination of small arms fire and hand to hand techniques. But, the resulting battle wrecked his house.

Then the monsters bigger brown brothers came to play, and Duke knew that his combat knives, pistols, shotgun were not going to cut it.

The battle boomers forced Duke to pull out of the heavy artillery, in the form of his RPG launcher.

Unfortunately, Duke could not use his RPG in his home, without both destroying himself, and his home. And Duke did not want to damage any of his neighbor's homes, nor endanger their lives.

So, what resulted was that Duke was forced to make a tactic retreat, in the from of a running battle down the street, with Duke leading the boomers away from the other homes, and towards less populated areas.

The first twenty battle boomers were not the difficult to handle.

The twenty battle boomers after that was went things began to get a little dicey.

Clearly, whomever was after Duke, knew him well enough to come after him with a literal army. Not that since an army against Duke would help that person, when Duke finally got his hands on him or her.

Though, now that he was in the thick of it, with the adrenaline pumping, he wondered why he ever retired from mercenary work in the first.

Then, Duke staring to have trouble.

The problem wasn't that he was tired, or running out of ammo. In the past, he was able incorporated alien tech into his custom, underarm, rocket propelled rocket launcher to give him infinite ammo.

It was that he was starting to get close to more populated areas. Her considered himself lucky that he was able to keep the fighting on empty streets. But, he was running out of room to maneuver.

Which is how Duke literally found himself, with his back to a concrete wall. Duke knew that one the other side of the concrete wall was a sidewalk, next to a busy road, with crowds people going about their daily business, on that sidewalk.

The one piece of good news that Duke had was that he was down to facing three battle boomers.

The bad news as that he was now corner, in a stand off with the three battle boomers. With the battle boomers standing, shallow semicircle, about thirty yards from him, in an open field.

All three boomers were pointing their right weapon lances at him. With each lance being armed with both a machine gun, and a rocket launcher.

There was a boomer to his left side, at ten o'clock. Another boomer was in front of him. And the third boomer to his right side, at two o'clock. With each boomer being just fair enough away, that one shot from Duke's RPG would only take out that single boomer, with the other two boomers taking himself down, in the immediate return fire.

And Duke was not just worried about the other two surviving boomer fishing him off. He knew the likely resulting gunfire and explosions, from the boomer's weapons, would result in either seriously harming, or even killing, the civilians on the other side of the concrete wall he was standing in front of.

Though, as Duke rotated his RPG launcher back and forth, between the three boomers, he was beginning to wonder what was going on.

The battle boomers were thirty yards from him, in an open field. But, they had not made a move toward him. They had not tried to kill him.

Duke thought, 'They must know they have me. But, why don't they just make the kill? They are programmed to sacrificing themselves, to complete the mission. So, this should be a not problem for them... Maybe they wanted me alive? But, with my RPG launcher, they know if they make a move against me, I fire. If I fire, they fire, and I die. Along, with likely several other people behind me.

Just then, Duke watched as two simultaneous blasts at the necks of the middle boomer and boomer to Duke's right side, decapitated both boomers.

Duke saw the blasts come from his right side.

A second later, two more explosions hit those two boomers on the undersides of their left chests, where their armor was weakest, around their chests.

The blasts caused the boomers to collapse and ceased functioning.

Just as the boomer to Duke's left side turned to face the new attacked, two more shots went out at the same time. One shot hit the boomer to Duke's right, in its right shoulder, blowing off the boomer's right arm, with its weapon lance, that had a rocket launcher and machine gun in it. The other blast hit it in its neck, decapitating the boomer.

Two more blasts simultaneously followed. Both shots hit the sides of the chest, where the two chest armor plates met the circular stomach armor plate.

The blasts shattered the chest plates, as the hits knocked the boomer onto its back, as it ceased functioning.

Duke turned to his right, and he saw a group of seven adults, about fifty meters away from him. The group was composed of six women and one man.

The two closest adults were two women. One was a green haired girl wearing black leather pants, jacket, and boots. Her jacket was unzipped, and he saw the woman wore a green blouse under her jacket.

The other girl was a blond woman wearing a yellow cowgirl outfit of a tank top, yellow cloth shorts, with a cowgirl hat, and shades. She also wore brown cowgirl boots, brown gloves. She had a set of revolvers holsters in a gun belt on the sides of her hips, and long knives sheathed to straps on her back.

Each of the two women were holding a Chain Lake forty millimeter, pump action grenade launcher, in their hands. With the butt of the stock of each weapon firmly set against their right shoulders. While their right hands were on the stock and trigger, and their left hands were under the fore-end.

(_)

As Bad Company had just saved Duke Nukem, both Akira and Fabiola turned their fingers off the triggers of their weapons, and they pulled their weapons from their shoulders. With each of them both pointing the barrel of their serenader launcher in the air.

Akira turned to look at Fabiola, as she said, “Fabiola. I can see why you like this weapon. Even though it has a kick, it also gives one hell of a punch.”

Fabiola winked at Akira, as she replied, “I know.”

Fabiola kissed the side of her China Lake grenade launcher. A second later, after she removed her lips from the weapon, she said, “I love my China Lake.”

Fabiola noticed Akira staring at her

Fabiola cracked a grin, as she said, “I called her, Josephine.”

Akira returned Fabiola's smile, as she responded, “I named all my weapons, as well. I just cannot say what their names are in polite company.”

Both of them giggled at Akira's comment.

Fabiola then turned to Rock, as she said, “Rock. I have said thank you again for replacing my China Lake. And thank you for letting me use it today.”

Rock replied, “Yes. You have. And that was not easy. Those things are very rare. Fortunately, Megatron was able to hack some military computers in one reality to get the blueprints, then we were able to find and pay a gunsmith with skills, means, equipment, and materials to make two of them. And it took him a couple of weeks to make them.”

Fabiola commented, “Still, it was worth it.”

Rock replied, “I agree. I just don't let you use it often because we don't want to kill the girls, and the grenades are almost as hard to come by as the weapons themselves.”

Akira turned to Ranma, Natsuru, and John. She posed for them, with the China Lake grenade launcher in both hands, though the barrel was still pointed upwards. She asked, “Guys. Is this me? Or what?”

Ranma said, “Whatever make you happy.”

John commented, “Honey, you should know by now, I love girls with guns. I married one.”

Akira giggled

Natsuru said, “I had a bigger one, the first night we got into mess. We just couldn't figure out how to fit it into Megatron's trunk.”

Akira just shrugged at Natsuru's response.

Meanwhile, Rock walked over to blond badass, in the crew cut, Duke Nukem Strike. Whom was holding his RPG in both hands. But, he pointed the weapon away form them.

As Rock walked towards Duke, she made sure to do so in a slow, casual manner. To make sure he did not accidentally shoot her.

Her voice calm, as she said, in english, “Hello. We mean you not threat. We helped you because the same enemies that sent those monsters are you, are after us.” As she reached with in ten yards of Duke, she came to a stop, as she finished, “And we were wondering if you wanted some payback?”

Duke set down his RPG launcher, and pulled out a cigar, from a pocket. He bite off the end of it, spitting out the unused piece. He then put the cigar in his mouth.

Next, he put the cigar in his mouth, as he pulled out a box of matches, pulled out a match.
After which, he put the match box away, and he used the match, in his hands, to light the cigar.

Duke took a long drag from his. A few seconds later, he slowly blew out the smoke.

With the cigar still in his mouth, he turned to Rock, as he casually answered, in english, “Sure.”

By then, the rest of the group had walked up to stand beside Rock.

Natsuru took a good hard looked at Duke Nukem Strike's face. She asked, “Do I know you from some place?”

Duke looked over at her. A few seconds later, he answered, “The only person I know with a shade of blue hair like yours was a male cop from another reality.”

Natsuru's eyes slightly widen, as she accused, “It is you. I cannot believe that at the time. I didn't realize it was you.”

Natsuru then shifted to her male from, and was now wearing a white t-shirt and blue jeans.

Duke casually said, “So, there are others like the my buddy, Alex, and his family.”

Natsuru stated, with annoyance in his tone of voice, “Don't give me that. You stole my car with me in it. You then forced me into an insane high speed chase that results in a battle that involved, the AD Police, Genom combat and battle boomers, USSD mechs, and the Knight Sabers. Your actions resulted in the destruction of half an industrial district. You are lucky no one was killed.”

Duke smirked, as he responded, in arrogant tone of voice, “And I got away with it, too. This is a different reality. As such, you do not have jurisdiction here.”

Natsuru commented, “And you don't think those weapons, and this destruction will get you into trouble here.”

Duke chuckled, as he answered, “As far as I see it. This was self-defense, with extreme prejudice.”

Annie giggled slightly, as she thought, 'Sort of like aggressive negotiations. I think I could like this guy, as a friend.'

Fabiola was to Natsuru's right side. She gently placed her left hand on Natsuru's right shoulder.

Natsuru turned to face Fabiola.

Fabiola said, “Is not this reason we want him in the first place? It sounds like the reputation you claim this man has well warranted. Because, what better revenge than to put this guy in harms way.”

Natsuru shrugged, as she conceded, “You have a point there.”

Natsuru then shifted back to a her female form, with her white and black seifuku. She turned to Duke, as she stated, “I will be watching you.”

Duke continued to smirk, as he teased, “And I will be leering at you.”

John asked, “Duke. From what Natsuru and you have been saying. It sounds like you have already been to other realities? Is that true?”

Rock complimented, “Good catch, John.”

John turned to Rock, as he happily replied, “Thanks.” He then turned back to look at Duke.

Duke took another poof of smoke, as he smirked. After he blew out the smoke, he answered “Well, boys and girls, this isn't my first rodeo.” He then focused his gaze on Natsuru, as he stated, “I see that it is a small, little multiverse. But, if I am guessing correctly, your name is Natsuru.” He pointed at Akira, as he continued, “Your name is Akira.” And he pointed at Ranma, as he finished, “And your name is Ranma.”

Akira asked, “How do you know our names?”

Duke took another puff of smoke, and blew out it out. He then answered, “I am very good friends with Alex Shimeru, Futaba's mother... Well by their standards.

Ranma asked, “You know Futaba?”

Duke replied, “He is my godson.”

That caused the group's jaws to drop.

Akira thought, 'Well, when I think about, if I was going to entrust the safely of any future child I had to someone, that child would be in very, very safe hands with Duke Nukem Strike.'

Duke chuckled a little. He then commented, “Over some drinks, while Alex was a guy, Alex told me about the whole babyshower fiasco. I got to admit, that was funny.”

Akira replied, “Thank you.”

Duke responded, “You're welcome. Anyway, soon after that babyshower incident, Alex and Iroka, Futaba's father. Decided to get to the bottom of Futaba's disappearance. Eventually, they got Futaba to tell them the whole story of you girls getting lost in multiverse. And Alex told me... Fictional realities. What a wild concept. But, it does explain a few things. And Alex also mentioned that while we were having drinks.”

Rock inquired, “Why would Futaba's mother trust you with such secrets?”

Duke answered, “Well, since you know this much. I might as well tell you the rest. We have a past a good friends. Though, not lovers. Over the years, before I retired, we did several missions together. We trust each other. Brothers in arms, and all that.”

Natsuru questioned, “You're retired.”

Duke responded, 'As the moment, I am thinking of coming out of retirement to deal with this, than go back to my coaching career.”

Natsuru replied, “Okay. Just making sure.”

Fabiola asked, “So, Futaba's mother was mercenary?”

Duke corrected Fabiola, as he said, “Not, was. Is. And she is one of the best. She... Well, he is around as good as me.”

John suggested, “If this Alex is as good as Duke is, maybe we should ask for her help, as well?”

Rock stated, “Given how destructive Duke is. And Duke says Alex is as equally destructive. I don't it is a wise idea to have these pair together, on a mission. I would like us to survive this mission, in one piece.”

Duke conceded, in a casual tone of voice, “You are probably right. Besides, she will likely kill me if she learned I told you all this.”

Rock said “Fair enough. And we will keep your secrets”

Duke stated, “Thanks.” He turned to John, as he continued, “And to answer this man's question. I have been to another realities. Though, the one that the blue haired person here is talk about is an accident, during a mission that left me stranded for a little while in MegaTokyo, in their year, two thousand thirty-four. It was an interesting adventure. While there, I met some interesting powersuited women.”

Natsuru asked, “You met the Knight Sabers? I went out of my way to avoid them.”

Duke smiled, as he said, “Then, you missed out on a lot, then.”

Natsuru questioned, “You didn't sleep with any of them? Did you?”

Duke admitted, “Well, there was that one night stand with Linna. Which we both admitted was fun. But, we also both realized that it wasn't going to go anywhere.”

Akira let out a laugh. She then said, “I think Duke will fit in well with this crew. He is just as crazy as the rest of us.”

Duke turned to Akira, as he said, “I will take that as a compliment.”

Rock stated, “As much as it fun to watch this conversation play out. We have more important things to worry about. Duke, you stated you were interested in some payback? If that is true? Then, we could use your help?”

Duke dropped his cigar on the ground, and he put it out with his right foot. He turned to Rock, as he answered, “Looks like you are going to need help from one of the Badasses of the multiverse. And I am more than willing to help.”

Rock said, “Good. Please, follow us. Transportation from this reality, is back at your home. Along, with the rest of our team. And I think we fit your RPG into the trunk of our transportation.”

Duke picked up his RPG, which he was careful not to point at the others people around him. He inquired, “Okay. Besides, there are a few items I would like to pick up at my home, before we leave. Though, I take it you are looking for more help, than just little old me?”

John answered, “Our next potential member is nicknamed, the merc with a mouth.”

Duke flatly stated, “Him? I didn't realize that you were that crazy.” He cracked a grin, as he continued, in a slightly excited tone of voice, “But, I like your style of insanity.”

John replied, “Thanks. Now, let's introduce you to everyone. Then, we will head back to your home, to get out of here.”

Duke said, “Sounds good to me.”

John and Rock then introduced everyone to Duke.

Duke then followed the rest of the team, back to his home, where they met with Megatron and Vash. Soon after, they all left that reality, as they headed to get the next member, of the team they were building.

(_)

On an alternate, semi-post-apocalyptic Marvel Comics reality, Earth. Time, early twenty-first Century. In the partial ruins of New York City.

Though, given this Earth's track record, this was not the first time, in recent history that New York City, and the rest of the world has been wrecked, only to be rebuilt, with humanity rebounding a few years later.

Still, presently, a Wade 'Deadpool' Wilson, in his red and black costume, was being chased by three brown, giant, battle boomers, he was reflecting on how his life had reached this point.

He guessed that it all started a few years ago, when heroes started going missing. Soon after, one night, he got a strange phone call from Tony, AKA Taskmaster.

Tony had warned him that a group in the multiverse was kidnapping the major players from their world for something horrible. Something that he could not say over the phone.

Tony stated that he and Herman were leaving this reality for good as soon as possible. And if Wade knew what as good for him, he would leave this reality, as well.

Wade knew that given Tony's connections, that was not a bluff. The guy, and whomever Herman was, were likely gone from this reality, and into the multiverse.

Wade had traveled the multiverse a few times. Seen the sights. And come back home. As such, he was sure that Tony and Herman would have fun.

Still, even with heroes were disappearing, the earth's enemies were not. It was like small groups of aliens, and sometimes dimensional beings, taken small chucks out of civilization.

One town raided and destroy. Other town conquered, and their population kidnapped for slavery, or worse.

To Wade's surprise and delight, the most of the villains in the world took a, it's our world too, attitude to the situation, and they took up the mantle of protecting humanity.

Along with these groups of people, others with powers, that did not want to be a hero or villain, stepped out of the shadows to help, in their own ways.

Wade Deadpool Wilson gladly volunteered to be at the forefront of this movement. He was no leader, but he was more than happy to be part of the fight. He always wanted respect, and to be acknowledged as a hero. And he finally got his wish.

But, soon villains started disappearing, as well.

The governments, and even armed civilians, tried to defend themselves. But, they were like blunt hammer trying to do surgical work, and most times they did more destruction than the attackers.

Eventually, as more and more parts of humanity's economic infrastructure were destroyed by raiders of almost every type, society began collapse under the weight of constant attacks. And while it was not an apocalypse, it had its moments.

Though, humanity was not outright killed, due to the attacked being small raiding parties, and not one large scale planetary invasion.

Still, Wade knew that, over the years, the Earth's so called heroes had made so many enemies beyond the planet, that with them gone, eventually one of those enemies would just destroy the world outright. It was just a matter of time.

Currently, Wade had stopped another small alien group of raiders, that had landed a part of New York City, that was currently ruins.

When is came to New York City, it was hard to keep track of what was currently destroyed, being built, or rebuilt.

But, people did wonder why over half the time, the raiders attacked New York City, first. Though, the people that lived outside of New York City were not going to complain about that.

Wade guessed the raiders were their to test themselves against the heroes. And none of the raiders got the memo that New York City's heroes were mostly gone, now.

Wade preferred to face them here, in the ruins, so he could cut loose without worrying about killing civilians by accident.

Unfortunately, Wade finally learned who was kidnapping the heroes and the villains, when the came after him.

Wade did double-take when he saw a squad of eight large brown battle boomers come at him. Boomers that he had only seen in the anime OVAs known as Bubblegum Crisis.

And the boomers had caught him with his figurative pants down, given he had already used most of his ammo against the alien raiders.

Wade had to use what ammo he had left, along with weapons and his other explosives against the boomer.

He destroyed both of his katanas taking out two of the boomers.

Though, for Wade, the worst part was that the boomers seemed completely immune to the jokes and comment he made, at the boomers expense.

To that end, Wade knew he was in trouble when his ultimate diss did not work on the boomers. He one time used that diss on Thanos, and made the immortal shed a single tear.

Still, he was able to take out five of the boomers, until Wade ran out of weapons to fight with. Then, he had to resort to running.

But, the three surviving battle boomers used their hover jets, to keep pace with Wade, as they came after him.

Eventually, the boomers had cornered Wade against the wall of a partly collapsed building.

Wade stood, as he saw the three battle boomers approaching him.

Deadpool thought, 'If it wasn't for the fact I was unkillable, I would let them kill me. To be honest, being killed by cyborg monsters, that make the terminator look puny in comparison. From one of my favorite anime series. Is not a bad way to go in battle. But, since I cannot be killed, my worry is what they plan to do to me when they capture.'

As Deadpool watched the lead battle boomer use it's left hand to reach down at him, it and the other three cyborg monsters were suddenly hit by small energy shots, balls of fire, and large blasts of energy.

With seconds, the boomers were destroyed. Wade turned masked face to look at his rescuers, and for once in life, he was left speechless, at the group he saw.

Standing there were three women Wade could not recognize. The others he did recognize. Those five individuals being, Ranma, Natsuru, Fabiola, and John Crichton.

And several feet behind them was Vash the Stampede and Duke Nukem standing in front of chrome car. Vash had his weapons hidden under his long red coat. And while, Duke did not have his RPG. Which was in Megatron's trunk. Duke was carrying to semi-automatic pistols, in his shoulder holsters. With extra ammo magazines in those holsters, as well.

Among the group, a black haired japanese woman, whom was wearing a white blouse and dark pants, looked over at Deadpool. She said, in the most girlishly seductive tone she could make, in english, “Hi Wade. Would you like to have some fun?”

Deadpool looked at the japanese woman with black hair, in the white blouse and dark pants. He smirked under his mask, as he said, in english, “In any way you want honey. But first, I have to ask. Have I gone further insane? Or, has my life gotten more insane?”

John stated, “Anyway one else, that question would not make sense. But, you... Well... You're life has just gotten a whole lot more stranger.”

Deadpool turned to John, as he asked, “Okay. Well, are you guys who I think you are?”

John answered, “Yep. I know it is weird.”

Deadpool shook his masked head, as he replied, with happiness evident in his voice, “No. It is wonderful. I mean, you are John Crichton. I am a big fan. Your hamminess and pop culture references are only second to my own.”

John replied, “I completely agree. I just don't have true depth of insanity that you have, Wade. Can I call you Wade?”

Deadpool responded, “Sure, John. And you are right on the insanity part. But, you come close.”

John responded, “Thanks. And it is alright to call me, John. Still, you just don't want to overcook the hamminess.”

Deadpool agreed, “Too true. Most people forget you can overcook the ham. Though, you must be lucky to be surrounded by this many hot chicks.”

John shrugged, as he pointed out, “I am married. Besides, most of these women use to be men.”

Deadpool causally said, “Who cares?” Deadpool then looked at the women, as he asked, “Are any of you single?”

Akira stated, “Ranma, Natsuru, and I are together.”

Rock said, “I already have a crazy girlfriend. I don't need a crazy boyfriend, on top of her... And I didn't mean it in that way.”

Deadpool replied, “No problem. And thanks for the mental image.” He turned to look around at Fabiola, and Annie, as he questioned, “How about you?”

Fabiola commented, in a calm tone of voice, “I apologize. But, insanity is a turn off for me.”

Annie pointed out, “Once you learn who I am, you will be thankful I declined your advances.”

Deadpool replied, “Okay.” He turned to John, as he inquired, “So, John. What is with the cool chrome car? And is that Vash the Stampede and Duke Nukum by the car?”

John answered, “Yes. That is Vash and Duke. The car is Megatron, in his current alt mode. From what Rock tells me, Megatron is the IDW version of Megatron.”

Deadpool inquired, “Cool. If Megatron is here, that means. For once. I won't be the token evil teammate the group I am with... Wait... Rock is here? I see Fabiola here, but not Rock. Or, is that Rock from another series? Besides, Black Lagoon?”

Rock stated, “I am Rock. And yes. Fabiola and I, are both from Black Lagoon anime. Not the manga.”

Deadpool asked, “The omake?”

Rock responded, “Gender bent. Long story.”

Rock could tell Deadpool looked her up and down, as he commented, “Damn, Rock. They must have used to good stuff to give you breasts like those.”

Rock smirked, “They did. So, are you with us?”

Deadpool asked, “Yes. So, where do I sign up? Because, this sounds like fun. But, I will need weapons and pictured autographs from all of you. Lots and lots of pictured autographs.”

Rock smiled, as she responded, “We will see what we can do.”

Akira stated, “Before we leave, there are a few things we need to get straight with Deadpool. We know you have a big mouth. But, we need to have you stay quiet for the next to place we go to. We have some people to meet that would likely not find you sense of humor, funny.”

Deadpool asked, “Who are we meeting?”

Akira inquired, “Do you promise that you won't squeal like little fangirl?”

Deadpool flatly said, “I make no such promises.”

Akira shook her head, as she stated, “The next person we are meeting is Boba Fett.”

Deadpool squealed like a little girl in delight.

Most of those that were present, groaned at Deadpool's girlish response.

Fabiola walked over, to stand to Rock's left side. She whispered into Rock's left ear, “Is it too late to resend our invitation to him?”

Rock turned to Fabiola, as she softly replied, in a halfhearted tone of voice, “Yes.”

Fabiola and Rock then turned back to look at Deadpool.

Akira mentioned, “And the next people we are meeting, after stopping by Moya, is the Serenity crew, from Firefly reality. Post Serenity movie.”

Deadpool girlishly squealed even louder in delight.

Akira thought, 'Better to have him get this out his system now, than wait till later.”

Deadpool said, “I always wanted to meet River. It is a rare treat for me to meet someone crazier than I am.”

Akira offered, “Yea. But, that might not be a wise idea. Both your insanity and her telepathy. Plus, her own insanity. Sounds like a bad combination.”

Wade conceded, “I admit that you have a point there. I will try not to focus on River, when we meet them.”

Akira smiled, as she said, “Good. Still, we are willing to sweeten the deal for you. If you behave. Instead, of just replacing your weapons and dropping you off somewhere nice, in the multiverse. We will give you a pair of lightsabers, a pair of blaster pistols, and drop you off in a reality that is really nice in the multiverse.”

Deadpool thought her offer over for a few seconds. He then stated, “You have a deal. Why settle for a few cheap laughs, when I can end up in a paradise reality?”

Akira replied, “I am glad you are seeing the bigger picture, here.”

Rock thought, 'Intelligent thinking Akira. We were planning to do that for Deadpool, anyway. But, he doesn't know that.'

Deadpool inquired, “Still blondie, I don't recognize you. Which is saying something. I pretty much recognize everyone else. I am even beginning to suspect that the brown haired chick, by John, is a gender bent Anakin Skywalker.”

Annie thought, 'I might as well tell him.' She commented, “Actually, Darth Vader. But, you were close. And the name I go by now is, Annie.”

Duke looked at Annie for a few seconds, but he remained quiet. He then looked back at Wade Wilson.

Deadpool smirked under his mask, as he looked over at Annie. He stated, “Well, Annie. You were wrong. I would still date you, if I could.”

Annie said, “That is not going to happen.”

Deadpool replied, “Okay.” Wade looked over at Akira, as he continued, “Anyway, blondie. You definitely have the look that screams badass. You remind me of Izzy. And I do miss that woman. She was fun. And you clearly using the two guns, and two swords, style, that I pioneered. So, who are you?”

Akira answered, “I am Hatsushiba Akira, from the Gacha Gacha Secret manga.”

Deadpool questioned, “The gender changing teenage boy, whom was interested in the teenage cafe girl?”

Akira replied, “Yes. That is me.”

Deadpool stated, with delight evident in his voice, “I always admired you, Akira. You were the rarest of gender benders. You valued the pearls given to you, and you made the most of the situation. Unlike others, when their getting their gender changing ability, were like casting pearls before swine.”

Deadpool looked over at Ranma, as he stated, “I am looking at you, Ranma.”

Ranma replied, “I have since learned to appreciate my female form.”

Deadpool responded, “Good.” Deadpool then turned to Akira, as he wondered out loud, “Still, how you go from him to, well... You?”

Akira cracked a grin, as she answered, “I got dropped into Roanapur, of the Black Lagoon anime reality. Post series, for a few years. I arrived around a month after Robert's Blood Trail arc concluded.”

“I ended living with Shenhua, Sawyer, and Lotton, during those years. Shenhua, Sawyer, and Revy taught me to be a badass. Those three even took my virginities. As both a man and as a woman. At the Rowan Pigeon's Jackpot.”

Akira noticed that Wade Deadpool Wilson had stopped moving, and he had even gone dead silent for several seconds.

Akira asked, with concern in her tone of voice, “Deadpool?... Wade?” She thought, 'Oh, please. Don't let me telling him about my life, be the final straw that broke his mind completely. I would never live it down.'

Meanwhile, Ranma was standing by Natsuru to Natsuru's left side. Ranma whispered into Natsuru's left ear, “This guy is nuts. Why are we recruiting him?”

Natsuru softly replied back, into her lover's right ear, “Yes, Deadpool is very crazy. He even makes some of our more nuttier wannabe girlfriends look sane, in comparison. But, he is a melee fighter without peer. He could give you a run for your money, without his weapons. He is even more deadlier with his firearms. He will do the job, and do it well”

“He also has a healing factor that makes him unkillable. He got the healing factor to try to cure his cancer, instead it also dialed his cancer up to eleven. Due the battle between that healing factor and his cancer, he was driven him insane. And his body is horribly disfigured. That is why he is wearing the mask and full body uniform.”

“Though, unlike others we have met. This guy is always trying to improve himself, from a moral standpoint. And he knows that killing is not always the answer. He has a soft spot for children, as long as those children are not trying to kill him.”

“As such, Ranma, we should pity him. And give him the chance he deserves.”

Ranma quietly said, “Okay. I will give this guy a chance.”

Natsuru whispered, “Good.”

By then, Deadpool began to speak again, “Sorry about spacing out like that. I just had a poolavision moment, and it broke. My imagination just cannot do justice to you four having such a wild time... Oh, that's right. My imagination is not rate for ultra-porn.”

Deadpool turned to Rock, as he asked, “Moving on. So Rock, what is the plan? And who are we facing? You wouldn't bring me to this party, unless you really needed me. But, don't worry, I'm in, no matter what.”

Rock stated, “Our enemies are great in numbers. They have access to vast resources and other technologies, throughout the multiverse. First, there is an army of combat and battle boomers, between use and a Tower that is a ripped off of Genom Tower.”

Deadpool said, “Cool. I remember when I watched the english dubs and subs of that BGC OVAs. I loved both versions. Though, I hated the BGC remake though. Still, the OVAs had hot babes, cool action against cyborg monsters, a villainous corporation that I could respect, and a cowboy cop.”

Rock responded, “I am glad you did like the series. Next, there is Balalaika and her Hotel Moscow forces.”

Wade commented, “I always liked that Russian babe, and her boys.”

Rock went onto say, “Then, there are the ones we have had to deal with, whom are known as the Hell Sabers. Four women in Knight Saber hardsuits, and one insane autobot. The women are, Revy, Shenhua, Sawyer, and Roberta. The autobot is IDW Arcee. Also, the women have had supersoldier serum treatments. And Roberta has had cybernetics to replace the body parts she lost during the her previous trip to Indochina.”

Deadpool happily stated, “Nice. So, we will be facing, two-hands, the knifenut, the cleaner, the bloodhound, and the craziest transformer ever imagined. With the four human women using both supersoldier serum and powerarmor. With the bloodhound having a cool upgrade. Now that is what I call a challenge.”

Rock requested, “We would like for them to be taken alive, and unharmed.”

Deadpool replied, “No problem. I know you love the redhead, Rock. You got good tastes when it comes to crazy women. I am sure Fabiola cares for Roberta. And Akira is concerned with Shenhua and Sawyer. Considering she lived with them for a few years.”

Deadpool saw Fabiola and Akira warmly smile at him. Deadpool returned the warm smile, from under his mask.

Deadpool continued, “Also, I have to admit, those hardsuits are so cool. I never could get Tony Stark to admit that those hardsuits were sleeker, and more stylish, than his powerarmor. So Rock, I am sure you are saving the best for last. Who is the person behind all of this?”

Rock stated, “Chang is the leader of all of this. We take him out and the whole thing will likely collapse on its own. And it seemed that before even Akira arrived, Chang know we existed in a fictional reality.”

Deadpool commented, “I always suspected that Chang-boy knew he was in a fictional series. All the signs were there. Like going to see Garcia, instead of you guys, at Lagoon Company, when the Bloodhound returned to Roanapur. Chang always seems sort of like Benedict, from Last Action Hero. Only Chang has a better sense of humor. Or, me without the insanity, and horrible body disfigurement.”

Rock asked, “So, are you still in?”

Deadpool smirked under his masked, “Of course. I consider this mission to be the feather in the cap of my career, as a mercenary. And a lunatic. Now, what is the plan, chief?”

Rock thought, 'I might as well tell him now, while he is interested. I will tell the others later, after we have everyone in one place.'

Rock explained, “The plan is for the Serenity crew to fly there ship from orbit to the tower. Where they will dropped off two teams. One is my group, Bad Company.”

Deadpool interrupted, “I love that song. Five Finger Death Punch is my favorite version of it.”

Rock let Wade's interruption slide, as she continued, “The other group is called, The Distraction. You, Vash, Duke, and Boba, will be the Distraction. Vash is the leader. Your job is to keep Chang's boomer army, and maybe Hotel Moscow, busy while the rest of us sneak into the tower, and take out Chang. And try to save everyone else.”

Deadpool thought over Rock's plan for a few seconds. He then complimented, “Good plan, Rock. I excel at creating distractions. And thinking of working with those three just brings a smile to my lips. Let's retrieve the rest of the gang, so we can go kick some ass.”

Rock cracked a grin, as she said, “My thoughts exactly.”

Deadpool turned to Annie, as he inquired, “Since we are going to meet Boba Fett next. I take it you have the means to contact him?”

Annie replied, “Yes.”

Deadpool pointed out, “Good. Still, we need to decide where in the Star Wars reality we are going to meet him in. It is a big galaxy, in that reality. A real expanded universe. And since we need to pick a place, I always wanted to go to Cloud City, above Bespin.”

Akira commented, “According to the galaxy map, that is too far out of the way from the normal hyperlanes. How about, Nar Shaddaa?”

Natsuru countered, “Too dangerous, Akira. The Hutts control that place. It is like Roanapur, for the entire moon. We show up there, people will take notice of us, and spread rumors. And the Hutts will hear these rumors about us, within less than a day. And I refuse to wear a chainmail bikini.”

Akira agreed, “Been there. Done that. And those chainmail bikinis do not look good on me, either.”

Natsuru suggested, “How about Corellia?”

Fabiola countered, “While in San F, after seeing the Star Wars movies again. I decided to check out the internet on some Star Wars information. That is mostly a city planet, that is more an industrial planet, than a tourist spot. If we are going to a city planet. Let us just go to Coruscant.”

Annie pointed out, “That would be a very bad idea. Remember, Palpatine is the emperor of most of the galaxy, during the time we are going too. That Coruscant is the galactic capital, and where he lives.”

“The moment I set foot on that planet, he will sense my presence, through the force. He will want to know what happened to me. He will make finding me his number one priority. And given his galactic level resources, we can all agree that we do not want that man to find out about traveling between realities... And if he finds out I have been turned into a healthy, young woman, he might try to marry me. And force me to have children with him.”

Everyone went dead silent.

A few seconds later, Akira quietly said, “The sad part is I can actually see that.” Akira thought, 'I think it is best I not tell her the part where some internet fan theories state that movie three hints that he is Annie biological father. And even if that were the case, that monster is so twisted, that he still might try that with Annie.'

From the look on Annie's face, Ranma could see that Annie desperately wanted change the subject.

Ranma commented, “Well, after you showed me those movies, I suggest we go to where it all started. Tatooine.”

Annie realized what Ranma had just done for her. She turned to face the redhead, as she said, “Thank you, Ranma. But, as much as I would love to see my son, in person, it would be the same problem for me. If I go there. The moment I set foot on that planet, Obiwan will sense me. And I am nowhere near ready to face any force master. How about Alderaan? I know it is a tourist destination. I can still see my daughter, even it if is at a distance. And it is a good place to meet Fett.”

Rock pointed out, “That place is to risky, as well. Annie, we know you want to see your kids. But, now is not the right time. And I have no interest in risking us getting involved with the politics of royalty, nor the rebels.”

Annie admitted, “You're right, Rock.”

Deadpool turned to Annie, as he asked, “So, you have seen your own Star Wars movies?”

Annie turned to Deadpool, as she answered, “Yes. Is there a problem with that.”

Deadpool replied, “No. I've even read my own comics. Multiverse travel, and realizing that all realities are fictional realities, to other realities, is an old hat to me.”

Annie replied, “Interesting.”

Duke inquired, “When exactly when were you pulled out of your timeline, Annie?”

Everyone turned to look at Duke.

Duke cracked a grin, as he commented, “Everyone had seen the movies.”

Vash commented, “I haven't seen these movies that you all keep talking about.”

Duke shrugged towards Vase, as he responded, “Well, except him. And, if we have time, we can fix that problem.”

Annie answered, “Duke. I was kidnapped about ten years after the end of the third movie. About the middle of the timeline between Episode Three and Episode Four.”

Duke continued to smile, as he stated, “Good. Then, how about we go to Theed, the capital city of Naboo? Given Annie spent time there with Padme. Even walking down the streets. She knows that city, well enough. Overall, it is a fair location. Naboo is in the Mid Rim. Not in the core worlds. It has imperial influence, but not as much as other planets. We keep our noses down, we should be fine. Though, we may have to gag our new guy, Wade.”

Deadpool stated, in a tone of voice, that reminded a few of them of a lost puppy, “Don't worry. I will be good.”

Duke turned to Deadpool, as he said, “Fine.” He looked back at the rest of the group, as he commented, “Anyway, the capital city is built in, and by waterfalls. With very open roads, and high buildings. Just from watching episodes one and two, I can think of six different ways we could easily escape that city. If we had too. Even without Megatron's reality jumping system.”

Megatron complimented, “I like the way you think, Duke.”

Duke looked over at the chrome car, as he responded, “Thanks Megatron.” He turned back to the group, as he continued, “Also, in Theed there are narrow alleyways where we can sneak in undetected, with Megatron's teleporter device.”

“The overall inspiration for the culture, and buildings, of Theed, seems to be southern European. From Spanish, to Italian, to Greek. This likely means good food, and decent people. Annie, do you still have a few secret credit accounts in your home reality, that Palpatine does not know about?”

Annie answered, “Yes. I have plenty of credits for all of us to use, when we get there.”

Duke responded, “Good. It means we can rent some decent rooms, for a few nights. If we have too. As we wait for Fett to show up. Also, the planet is far enough away from Obiwan, Yoda, and Palpatine, that as long as Annie does not use the force, none of them will sense her. And our dresses, for the most part, will not attract to much attention.”

Deadpool cautioned, “You do not want to see me without my mask on.”

Annie asked, “Deadpool, how bad do you look under that mask?”

Deadpool stated, “Let's put it this way, Annie. While you are a nice sight to look at, right now. When you were Vader. If there was an ugly contest, between us, without our masks. I would likely win.”

Annie replied, “Ouch.”

Deadpool commented, “I know.”

Akira pointed out, “Fortunately, hooded cloaks are fashionable in the Star Wars reality. We will just get your a dark red cloak and hood.”

Wade said, “That will work for me.”

Akira replied, “Good.”

Ranma complimented, “Damn. Duke you have brains, and brawn.”

Duke cracked a grin, as he slyly pointed out, “You do not get to be my age, in my former line of work, without being intelligent.”

Ranma said, “Good point.”

Rock thought over Duke's suggestion. She stated, “I like it. Theed it is.” She turned to Annie, as she asked, “Annie, you said you could contact Fett? So, will there be any problems with you contacting Fett?”

Annie smirked, “No. You could say I have his personal phone number. Though, it might take a few days, to a week, for him to make it to Naboo. He likes to travel. Still, when he gets my message, we will stop what he is doing, to come see me.”

Rock replied, as she returned the smile, “Good. I think we can live with that.”

Deadpool walked passed Rock's group, and up to Duke. He inquired, “So Duke. You have seen the Star Wars movies. Have you also seen the Army of Darkness movie?”

Duke replied, “That is one of my favorite movies.”

Deadpool turned to Rock, as he suggested, “Yo, Rock. Can we stop by the Evil Dead reality and pick of Ash Williams? He would fit in with this group perfectly.”

Rock turned to Wade, as she flatly stated, “No. I am only allowing one wisecracker per group.” Rock then muttered under her breath, “Besides, that guy has been through enough already.”

Deadpool replied, “Damn.”

Duke turned to Deadpool, as he complimented, “It was worth a try, Wade.”

Deadpool turned to Duke, as he responded, “I know, Duke.”

Rock then started walking towards Megatron in alt car mode, she ordered, “Alright everyone. We know where our next destination, so let's go. Annie, you will use this key this time, just do as I do and think a good place to teleport to in Theed, at a time of, I suggest a few months after you left, then turn the key. Just think of the reality, place, and time. Hold that thought, and turned the key.”

Annie replied, “Yes, ma'am. And I even I have a place in mind, to teleport too. I was thinking a alleywall, by a court yard, in one of the residential areas of the city. Near where Padme's parents use to live. And we will do as you suggest. We will arrive a few months after I was kidnapped. With it being morning, local time.”

“That will give me time to arrange for my credit line to my secret accounts, and for us to find room, long before dark. Also, after we make arrangements with credits and lodgings. Which should not take long. We will get something to eat. I even know a few places there, if they are still open, that have some wonderful food.”

Rock commented, “I look forward to it, Annie.” Rock then turned to Deadpool, as she ordered, “Wade sit on the front hood, with Vash and Duke. You should be fine. Just don't jump off the car in mid-teleport.”

Deadpool nodded, as he stated, “I have had bad experiences with teleporters before. Trust me. I have no interest in repeating them. Body-slide by two, anyone?”

Rock, John, Natsuru, and Akira lightly laughed at Wade's joke.

Within a few minutes, Bad Company took their places in the car, with the other three adults present, sat on Megatron's front hood.

Annie was sitting the center of the front seat. Rock had given Annie her reality key.

Annie inserted the key into Megatron. She thought of the reality, place, and time, she wanted to go. She held that thought, as she turned the key and they teleported to Theed, the capital of the planet Naboo in her home Star Wars reality, a few months after she was kidnapped.

(_)

Reality, Star War reality. Place, somewhere in the galaxy, in hyperspace. Time, a few months after Darth Vader disappeared.

Boba Fett was sitting in his cockpit, as he flew his spaceship through hyperspace as he reflect on his life.

He was wearing his usual teal and white powerarmor, complete with his utlity belt, and blaster, in his right side holster.

It has been months since the Imperial government had officially announced that Darth Vader was missing.

Boba Fett quickly realized that with Vader gone, the fear of his wrath was gone, as well. And without Vader, things would start to slip out of the Emperor's control.

This was a good thing for Fett. Vader's absence meant more business for himself, as crime and vendettas across across the board increased throughout the galaxy.

Boba had to admire Darth Vader. Few people in galactic history were able to inspired such fear and respect across the galaxy.

And due to Vader being gone, Fett had even started to make a nice profit, from bounties.

When it came to bounty hunting, it was becoming a buyers market. Allowing, Fett to more easily pick and choose with bounties he wanted. And while Fett like a challenge, they were a few high price bounties, that was so easy, he had to take them, because the money was good, and the turn around on the bounty was fast.

Things were going great Boba until those strange blue and brown droids, from hell, started hunting him.

In the last month, Fett had numerous running battles with those droids.

So, far his blaster pistol, flamethrowers, and missiles were enough to destroy them. But, they always seemed to show up a few hours after he had docked his ship somewhere.

And Fett did not know where they were coming from, nor whom was sending them.

This was one of the reasons he was in hyperspace. It was one of the few places he was save, and he could think of a plan to deal with them. And at the same time, find whomever was sending the droids, and deal with them, as well.

Fett check his instruments on his cockpit dashboard. All his instruments stated his ship was good, and his course was fine.

Where Fett was heading was planet, on a major crossroads, in the hyperspace lanes. When he got there, he plant to just decide which way to go. Set the coordinates, and then head back into hyperspace.

Fett planned to do this, until he started to get low on either engine fuel, or food supplies. Both of which, he still had plenty of.

While Boda looked out of his cockpit window, at the white and blue swirling energy tunnel created when traveling through hyperspace, he thought, 'It is very clear from the tactics these droids use, that they want me alive. That is my only advantage. I have tried to use my contacts to figure out where they came from, but no one knows what the are. Let along, whom sent them.'

'I even gathered the remains of one of the blue corpses and showed tp a droid specialist. The specialist stated that it was not a droid. All the specialist could tell me was that it was some sort of manufactured bio-cyberdroid. The specialist also stated that these cyborgs are not made using technology found in the known galaxy.'

'I have even check the logs from my contacts as the spaceports I was attacked in. None of them had logs of anyone with these things showing up at any of the spaceports right before they attacked me.'

'It is like they just appeared out of nowhere, looking for me... Or, they teleported in. This would mean that those whom are after me after not from the known galaxy. This would not be the first time I had to deal with strange alien tech.'

'And why of all people, would they be after me. There are so many easier ways to come after me. If they wanted me for a job, they could have just contacted me. If they wanted to capture me, they could have still tried to hired me, and set a trap. Or, they could have tried to hire others to capture me.'

'And if they wanted me for by body. Well, sure, my skills are great. But, I am just a clone. If they wanted my body, they could have just gotten some unaltered DNA samples of my father, and made a clone. I know for a fact my fathers DNA is on the black market. You do not clone an entire army from someone without attracting people's attention.'

'It is obvious those monsters are not cheap to produce and maintain. That means they are no local. And they have no local contacts. Also, this means that whatever they had in mind for me is not good for my prolonged health and future.'

'Since I have no leads to track them down, I could be in some real trouble... Still, let's see if I have any good news on from my personal message data servers.'

Fett used the communication systems on his ship to patch into the galactic data network, to check his test message programs.

Boba quickly skipped through message topics, from job offers, by nobodies, including a low ranking Hutt, Fett noticed a messaged from one of the last people he expected to hear from, again.

It was from a coded signal that only two people in the galaxy knew of. Fett was one of them, and Darth Vader was the other.

Fett wondered out loud, with his helmet speaker on, “Now, where have you been, Vader?”

Fett read the message. The message read, “Bounty hunter, Boba Fett. This is Lord Vader. By the time you are reading this message, you are likely being hunted by those that have hunted myself. I am alive and well. I require your serves. Payment will be in the form of technological upgrades to your weapons, equipment, and armor. No disintegrations. Mission details and answers on whom our enemies are will be given after confirmation of acceptance of mission.”

Fett though, with mild amusement, 'No disintegrations... Ha... It's Vader. He and I have a running gag about that line. I disintegrated one bounty. Fortunately, not one of his. And I never lived it down. Let's see what else he has to say.'

Fett continued reading Vader's message, “You will meet with a group of six human women, three human men, and one large droid. The leader of this group is a human woman that goes by the name of Rock. She is a young, intelligent woman with fair skin, and long black hair. I have found her and her subordinates to be just as resourceful as you are. And I vouch for each of them.”

“The meeting location will be just after dark in Theed, the Capital of Naboo, in a residential district. This will be a long term, but rewarding mission. You have two standard galactic weeks to confirm this job offer.”

The mission gave the exact address of the meeting location.

Fett look at the date of when the message was sent. It was six hours ago. He then checked his navigation. It shows that he was less than three days from Naboo.

Fett then started composing a response, sending it back along the same coded signal Vader had sent to him.

The message read simply, “Estimated less than three days to meeting location. Mission, accepted.”

An hour later, Fett came out of hyperspace, at an intersection in the hyperspace lanes. He then changed course with his ship for Naboo. And he had his ship re-enter hyperspace, for his new destination.

(_)

On the planet Naboo, in the city of Theed, six hours later, inside her suite, at the nice inn Annie had rented for this group, Annie was at her room's computer terminal, checking her messages.

It was early evening the morning after they had come to this reality. And they had all had a pleasant day. With some good eating, and them finding this nice inn to stay out. With each of them having their our suite.

Outside, Megatron was parked in alt mode near the inn. And when they had first arrive, Annie handed Rock back her reality key.

Annie read Fett's message.

She smiled. She then got up from her chair, at the desk, with the computer terminal, that she was sitting at.

Next, Annie left her suite, and went downstairs, to the hotel lobby, where the others were sitting, and talking.

Given the inn had a more old-fashioned feel to it, there were no elevators at the inn. Given the inn was just three stories high. Not counting the basement level. There was only way from floor to floor, was an ornate, dark brown, wooden stairwell. With the stairwell providing access to hallways, on the various floors.

Though, except for not having elevators, the inn had modern amenities, such as each suite having air conditioning and heating, a desk with a computer terminal, a bed, a bathroom, with running hot and cold water, toilet, sink, shower, toiletries, etcetera.

When Annie walked into the lobby, her friends stopped talking, as they turned to look at her.

Annie said, “He accepted. He will be here in less than three days.”

The others in her group just smiled at her, due to the good news she told them.

(_)

The next day, during the early afternoon, Rock was having lunch alone at a restaurant, while the others were looking around the city of Theed.

It was a sunny warm day, and Rock was wearing similar clothing, as to what she had been wearing the previous day.

As Rock ate her meal, she found the wine good, and the food strange, but tasty.

Annie had given them all some currency she had procured. With the team spending the day, enjoying the sights of the city.

Just then, someone came up from behind the chair Rock was sitting in, with the person saying, in a casual tone of voice, “Hi there, lover girl.”

Rock immediately recognized the voice as belonging to Revy. Rock watched the redhead walk out from behind her, to her right side.

Rock then watched as Revy sit down in a chair, across the table from her.

Revy was in her usual clothing, and she had were semi-automatic pistols in her shoulder holsters.

Rock requested, in a deflated tone of voice, “Hi Revy. Can you please let me finish my meal, before we start fighting.”

Revy said, “Relax Rock. I have no intention of capturing you, right now. Chang has given us direct orders not to commit any open violence in the Star Wars reality. We do not want to attract the Empire's attention.”

Rock asked, “That is wise thinking. So, where is the rest of your team?”

Revy answered, “Back at the tower. I came alone, to see you. Still, now that you have had your health returned to you, I am sure you are planning something against Chang, and us. While, I do not know what you have planned, I am sure it will be interesting. I have been following you most of the day, and I see you have some new people in your crew.”

Rock thought, 'It is is interesting that she came alone. And she knows me enough to have guess I am already planning something. Still, she likely does not know who Vash, Wade, and Duke are. Meaning, even if Revy told Chang what she saw here, it will take time for Chang to piece things together. That gives us breathing room.'

Rock coyly replied, “Yes. We both seem to have eclectic taste in friends.”

Revy shrugged, as she agree, “That's true.”

Rock thought, 'Now, to find out why she is here?' She inquired, “So, if you are not here to capture me, why are you here?”

Revy stated, “We all decided we should check on you, and make sure you did not lose your mind with the gender change. And I must say you look great as a girl, Rock. I am envious. But, only in good ways. So, how are you managing at being a girl?”

Rock honestly answered, “I am doing fine. I am still getting use to my breasts, and peeing sitting down. But otherwise, it isn't that much different than when I was a man. Even my emotional state is pretty much the same. I have been through a lot since the change. And I have not broken down crying, even once.”

Revy smiled, as she complimented, “That is good to hear. I am glad that when you changed, you were still able to maintain that inner strengthen, that I always found attractive in you.”

Rock shrugged, as she replied, “Thank you. Still, I am not looking forward to having my first period.”

Revy tried to comfort Rock, as she said, in a kind tone of voice, “Actually, it isn't that bad.”

Rock countered, “That not what the girls in my group tell me. But, thanks for trying to sugar coat it.”

Revy replied, “You're welcome.”

There was an awkward silence between the two of them, for several seconds, until Rock asked, “So, what now?”

Revy let out a breath, as she pleaded, “Just for one day. Let's just stop being at each others throat. And let's pretend we are still together.”

Rock said, “Revy. You act like we stopped being a couple.”

Rock's comment caught Revy off guard, as she questioned, in a slightly confused tone of voice, “What do you mean? Of course we are not a couple, right now. We have been fighting each other for so long.”

Rock lips curled into a wicked grin, as she said, “Don't be so sure. You have occasionally been trying to kill me since the day we met. Has that ever stopped me from loving you?”

Revy giggled, as she realized, “Oh lord, Rock. You're right. We never did stop being a couple. And you are just as crazy as I am.”

Rock maintained her wicked grin, as she replied, “You finally figured that out.”

Revy returned Rock smile, as she inquired, “I guess I have. So, are you thinking, what I am thinking?”

Rock continued smiling, as she answered, “Of course. I just need to pay the check before we leave.”

Revy smiled, as she said, “Take the time you need. We are not in any hurry.

(_)

Twenty minutes later, after Rock helped sneak Revy into her hotel suite, Rock locked the door, they then quickly disrobed, with both of laying side by side, nude on Rock's bed.

Fortunately, the bed was more than big enough for the two of them, with Revy laying to Rock's left side.

Revy lean over, on top of Rock, as she kissed Rock deeply. As she did so, she placed her left hand, on the bed, by Rock's right shoulder, to balance herself. And she slowly moved her right hand from Rock's chest to her stomach and finally below the way between Rock's legs.

Revy broke their kiss, she looked at Rock in her eyes. With Rock looked back at her.

Revy stated, “A girl losing her virginity is never painless. But, I will be gentle. This is going to hurt a little bit, but not too much. Also there will be a little blood, afterward. But, that is normal, as well. And then we are going to have so much fun. Are you ready, Rock?”

Rock look back into her eyes, as she answered, “Yes.”

While Revy continued looking looked at Rock's face, as she used the fingers of her right hand to reach deeper into Rock. Then, Revy used the fingers of her right hand to do a swift, jerking motion within Rock.

What surprised Revy, was she saw that Rock did not even bat an eye at having her cherry popped.

Rock giggled, as she commented, “That was... highly overrated. I have had insect stings more painful than that. I cannot believe that most girls make such a big deal from such a minor sting.”

Revy giggled, as well. She smiled, as she stated, “You continue to surprise me, Rock. Now, I want you to continued to lay back and let me do all the work. By the time I am through with you, your fingers will never be enough to satisfy you again.”

Rock admitted, “Actually, I haven't used my fingers down there yet. I just haven't had the time to enjoy my new body yet.”

Revy raised an eyebrow. Her smile widened, as she said, with delight, “Then, Rock, you are in for one hell of a treat.”

(_)

Two hours later, Rock laid nude on her bed. She was fully satisfied in every sense of the word.

Rock turned to Revy, whom was standing, on the right side of the bed.

Rock saw that Revy was getting dressed in her clothing.

Rock admitted, while having a lopsided grin, due to still being slightly high from the ecstasy of what she had just experienced, “Revy. I honestly forgot that women could have repeat performances over and over again.”

Revy got on her sports bra and panties, as she turned to Rock. She answered, “Yea. That is one of the perks to being a girl.” She grinned, as she teased, “And Rock. I never knew you could hit pitches that high with your new voice.”

Rock replied, “Neither did I. That was good. Different, than as a man. But, good.”

Revy had just put on her crop top shirt, and denim cut-offs shorts. As she clipped her leather belt together, with its hook and eye latch, Revy said, “Well, I am glad to hear that. I would hate for you to be unable to enjoy the pleasures of being a woman.”

Rock commented, “I hope my fingers were able to satisfy, you as well.”

Revy put on her green boots, as she grinned. She stated, “You did. Given this was your first time trying to satisfy a girl, as another girl, you did well with your fingers. You need some practice and experience. But, that will come in time. And I want you to know, as a man, you were a wonderful lover. So, I have no doubt that you will eventually become just a good a lover to me, as a woman.”

Rock finally found the strengthen to sit up, as she turned to Revy. She requested, “Be honest Revy. Do you prefer men, or women, more?”

Revy admitted, as she put on her shoulder holstered, “I have found that I have always been bi-sexual. I just don't have sex with that many people. And given what had happened to me in the past, it would be so easy to say that I sexually prefer women to men. Though, that is not really true.”

Rock commented, “I finally got around to seeing the Black Lagoon series.”

As Revy put on her shoulder holsters, with her pistols in the holsters, she asked, while she already knew the answer,“So, you saw what happened?”

Rock said, in a sad tone of voice, “Yea. It explains a lot about you. And if you want to jump realities, and kill that bastard, I am more than willing to help.”

As Revy put on her gloves, she smiled. She responded, “Rock, you always say the sweetest things. But, I have found that if I want a future, I have to leave the past behind.”

Rock inquired, “Does that mean leaving me, along with the rest of your past?”

Revy look over at Rock, with a serious expression on her face, while she calmly said, “No Rock. Whether you are a man. Or, a woman. You are the future I want.”

Rock smiled, as she replied, “Saying that brings a smile to my lips.”

Revy turned to Rock, as she returned Rock's smile. She walked up to Rock, leaned down, and lightly kissed Rock on her lips. Revy then stood up, as she said, “I appreciate that.”

Revy then walked way from Rock, and towards the others side of the room. Next, she turned around to face Rock.

Rock then noticed pulled something that looked like TV remote from a pocket on her shorts.

Rock asked, “What is that?”

Revy realized what she was asking about. She held up the remote device, as she posed like a woman, holding up the product she was selling. She answered, in a playful tone of voice, “This is the latest in reality traveling technology from Chang industries. No portals. No bulky teleport systems. This little devices does all the work for reality jumping, for a few people.” She then relaxed her body stance, as she continued, in a normal tone of voice, “This device also had a near infinite energy supply. Though, I have no clue on how the device works. All that I care about is that it works.”

Rock thought, 'Chang's techs are getting better with that reality gear. That device is at least two generations more advanced than the reality traveling technology Megatron uses. But, that is a matter for another time. I still want answer to my personal question for her.'

Rock asked, “Interesting. By the way, Revy, you never did answer my question about liking either men or women more?”

Revy said, “I will let you know when I have an answer to give you. But, don't worry. It changes nothing on the way I feel about you. Good luck attacking Chang. If you lose, we are going to have such fun at the tower, after you are brainwashed. If you win, we are going to have such fun elsewhere, after you figure out a way to deprogram us. Either way, I see it as a win-win for us as a couple.”

Rock stated, “Damn lover. I never knew you could have such a positive outlook on life.”

Revy gave Rock a warm smile, as she happily responded, “Honey, that is because you are such an inspiration to me.”

Revy then used the reality device, as she instantly disappeared. Leaving Rock to realize how much of a positive influence she had been on Revy's life.

Rock said, to herself, “I am going to save that woman from Chang. No matter what it takes.”

Rock then got out of bed. As she stood, she realized how sticky she felt between her legs. And she also noticed she smelled a little, from her sweat, and other bodily fluids she had on her person.

Rock thought, 'I better get cleaned up.' She then remained nude, as she headed for the bathroom shower, in her suite.

(_)

Ten minutes later, after Rock finished her show. She dried off, and got dressed. As she then headed to the exit of her suite.

Rock opened the door to the hallway, then closed it behind her. When she turned to head downstairs, when she was confronted by Annie.

Rock was not startled by seeing Annie. She thought, 'I forgot that Annie is very good a sneaking up on people, when she wants to. She just prefers not to do, because it is impolite.'

Rock then noticed that Annie was smiling like the cat that had just caught the canary.

Annie asked, in a casual tone of voice, “So, how is Revy?”

Rock slumped her shoulders at realizing she had been caught. She clearly knows that I just had sex, and who I did it with. I hope this does not cause me to much trouble.' She asked, “Still brainwashed. But, fine. She is gone now. By the way. So, how did you figure it out?”

Annie smile became mischievous, as she said, “I do not need to know through the force to figure it out. I came here to get a nap, after lunch. And my room was across from yours. Half an hour ago, I was awoken by the sounds of two different women screaming in passion from your room.”

“I did not sense danger from your suite, so I did not disturb you. And given the situation we are in, and you just changed into a girl less than a week ago. There is only one person in the entire multiverse that you would share a bed with, right now. That person being Revy... And it sounded like you two had a great time together.”

Rock inquired, “You're not upset that I just literally slept with the enemy.”

Rock noticed that Annie's body language continued to be relaxed.

Annie calmly responded, “No. I am not upset. You made it no secret that you are still in love with Revy. And with luck, very soon this mess will be behind us. And the two of you can be together again.” Annie's eyes the became unfocused, as she recalled her life. She said, “I remember when I lost my virginity on this planet, as well... Good memories. And I will keep this secret from the others, as well.”

Rock replied, “Thank you.”

Annie eyes came back to focus, as she looked at Rock. She suggested, “You are welcome. And since it is just the two of us, here. Right now. Would you like me to show you where Padme's parents use to live? Then, I will give you a tour of some of my favorite places in this city.”

Rock smile, as she accepted the offer, “Sure. What Star Wars fan would not take you up on that offer.”

Annie smiled in response to Rock's comment.

As they began walking towards the stairwell, they were side by side, with Annie to Rock's right side.

While they casually walked together, Annie asked, “So, how was sex as a woman? I have not done it yet, as a woman. But, I was wondering.”

Rock answered, “It was pretty good, actually. Different than a man, but good. Also, unlike as a man, we can do it over and over, back to back.”

Annie smile turned into a lecherous grin, as she commented, “I found that out, as I explored myself one day.”

Rock returned Annie's smile, as she said, “Good. Then, you have an idea of what I am talking about. And don't worry about losing your cherry. It is nowhere near as painful as some women make it out to be.”

Annie responded, “Good. That was only one of my only two major questions, I have about being a woman. The other being obviously what it is like to be pregnant.”

Rock stated, “Well, you will have to ask someone else. Because, I have no interest in becoming pregnant, any time soon.”

Annie shrugged, as she said, “Neither do I. But, my wife, Padme, had no complains about it. So, I figured it wasn't that bad.”

Rock pointed out, “Well, in such a case, I would be more worried about giving birth, than the pregnancy itself.”

Annie conceded, “I will give you that one.”

By then, the two women made it to the stairwell. They headed downstairs, and outside. Annie then gave Rock a tour of some of the more interesting places in the city of Theed.

(_)

Two nights later, just after dark, Fett landed his spaceship on one of the landing pads, of Theed's main spaceport.

Next, Fett the proper arrangements, and payments, to Theed's spaceport authorities, for possible long term housing of his ship. Which did not take him long.

Boba then made his way to the meeting location for his new job.

As he made his way to the courtyard that was the agreed upon meeting place, from the illumination of the street lamps, he saw, in the middle of the courtyard, four human men and six human women.

All the members of the group were strangely dressed. Also, the group was standing by a strange chrome, wheeled, land vehicle. The roof and windows of the vehicle were raised, so Boba could not see inside the vehicle.

A fair skinned, black hair woman, in a blouse, pants, and slippers, take a step forward from her group.

Fett turned to look at the woman, as he thought, 'I guess that is Rock. She does fit the general description.'

Rock smiled, as she calmly said, “Hello Mister Fett. I am Rock. I am happy you took up Vader's offer of payment, in exchange for a job that will help us both. My one question for you is, are you looking for a job and answers?”

Fett said, through the electronic speakers in his helmet, in galactic basic, which was very close to english, “I am open to both. As long as the payment is right.”

Rock responded, “Good. But, we have much traveling to do, before we will get to your answers. And the job we have requested you for. Is that alright?”

Fett stated, “As long as there is no deception, nor betrayal, I do not mind a little traveling.”

Rock continued to maintain her smile, as she said, “Then sit on the hood of the vehicle. And do not move off of it, until we tell you too. Because we are going for a ride, you will never forget.”

(_)

Farscape reality, Moya. Two hours after John left.

Megatron teleported to the shuttle bay he spent his time in, the last time he came to Moya.

The Bad Company were inside the vehicle, while Deadpool, Duke Nukem, Vash, and Boba Feet sitting on the hood of the vehicle.

Deadpool sat on the right side of the hood. Duke was on the front right side. Vash was on the front left side, and Boba Fett was sitting on the left side of the hood.

As Bad Company got out of the car, Pilot's voice was heard from the speakers in the room, “John. Were you able to complete you mission yet?”

John answered, “Not yet Pilot. Have the others been informed of my return?”

Pilot said, “No.”

John replied, “Good. Please, do not inform them. We will not be staying long. I just need to get myself and my group fitted with some environment space suits, and then we are gone again.”

Pilot stated, “You know where the suits are. Take as many as you need.”

John replied, “Thank you, Pilot.”

Rock turned to the four men on the hood. She asked, “Mister Fett. Is your powerarmor designed to be used in the vacuum of space?”

Fett turned to Rock, as he answered, “Yes.”

Rock responded, “Good. Then, please stay with Megatron. The rest of you, follow us.”

Duke, Deadpool, Vash, and Boba Fett slipped off the hood, to stand on the metal floor of the shuttle bay.

Fett asked, “So, who is Megatron?”

The car said, “Me.”

Boba turned to look at the vehicle. He then looked back over at the group.

Meanwhile, John took the lead, as he lead the group towards the exit to the shuttle bay, and where the environmental suits were kept.

As the group walked towards the exit to the shuttle bay, that lead deeper into Moya, Deadpool asked, “So, this is Moya. Do you think I could meet some of your friends, John?”

John flatly answered, “No. And if you try to meet with my friends. Especially, my wife and baby son, I will kill you.”

Deadpool teased, “Better men than you have tried. All have failed.”

John pointed out, “Better men did not have access to wormholes and black holes.”

Deadpool conceded, “Good point.”

Boba Fett then watched the rest of the group exit the shuttle bay, and turn down a hallway, to their left, and out of his eye.

Boba thought, 'I might as well find out what type of droid Megatron is?” He turned to Megatron, as he calmly inquired, “What type of droid are you?”

Megatron replied, “The humorous kind.” He then chuckled a little, for a few seconds.

Fett thought, 'His chuckle reminds me of when I heard Vader chuckled one. Not for the faint of heart. I think I will just silently wait here, for the others to return.

Half an hour later, the rest of the group returned all to Megatron. All of them wore environment space suits, and helmets, which John had fitted for each of them. Those with weapons had their weapons holstered, or attached, outside their suits.

Though, Rock kept her weapon hidden in her clothing, under her environment space suit. She did not planet to get into a fight, while in the environmental space suit.

It was then that Fett noticed one of the women, had a lightsaber attached to the right side of her suit.

Though, since Fett could not tell which woman was which, he did not ask about the lightsaber, nor the woman whom possessed it.

A few minutes later, they all reality jumped to their next destination.

(_)

Firefly reality. Edge of the Verse. Time, just over one month after the end of the battle of Mister Universe's Moon.

Twenty minutes ago, Malcolm Reynolds landed his ship, the Serenity, on a near barren rock, that had a barely breathable atmosphere. The planet was on the very outer edge of the Verse. Like every moon and planet in the verse, humanity had tried to terraform this rock, but this time it did not take. But, a person could survive a few minutes outside without an environmental suit, before the cold killed the person.

It was day time on the side of the rock they were on. Though, the light was so far from the nearest star, that it was at best like twilight, compared to most of the more livable planets the crew of Serenity have been too.

Mal was standing in the cockpit, with the rest of his crew elsewhere on the ship.

Mal silently reflected on the last month of their lives. After they revealed the reavers origins to everyone in the Verse. And in so doing, they had embarrassed the Alliance.

Things had already started going downhill before that with the loss of both Wash and Book. Along with the destruction of practically every port and friend he had in the Verse.

But, that was only the beginning the Serenity's problems.

Their downhill incline went even steeper after they left Mister Universe's Moon.

Though, the operative let them go, many in the Alliance started going after them. With Mal and his crew were constantly be hunted.

Then, those strange blue and brown robots, along with those weird large pie shaped ships, started showing up. With Mal and his crew finding out that the robots and the crews of those ships were looking for them.

Given they had nowhere to hide, since the operative had literally bombed all their old watering holes, they were forced further and further to the edges of the Verse.

More than once, Mal was seriously considering loading up on supplies, and taking his chances outside of the Verse. But, running kept him from getting the supplies he needed to do so.

Mal knew he had to tell his crew the truth. They were low on supplies, and had literally run out of sky to run too. All they could do now was to make their last stand here, and pray for better prospects in the their next life.

The only good news they had was celebrating River's eighteenth birthday. Which was last week.

Just then, he noticed something outside of the cockpit window, in the front of the ship.

Mal turned and looked through the window, down on the group.

Mal saw a group of people, all in environmental suits, except for one that looked like armor, outside of the ship. They were all waving at him. Including, a giant chrome robot. To come in.

Mal thought, 'Oh hell. Why not? The worst case scenario. They kill us quick, and I don''t have to explain how much trouble we are already in.'

(_)

A few minutes later, the crew of the Serenity was in the cargo hold, near one of the air locks.

Mal, Zoe, and Jayne had their weapons draw, and pointed at the air lock, as one of the people outside were let in.

After the airlock pressurized, the inner airlock door opened and a brown suited figure slowly walked into the room with their hands up.

From the curves of the suit, the person was a woman.

The woman slowly put her hands on her helmet and twisted it slightly, before removing it.

Under the helmet, he saw the face of a young, fair skinned, black haired woman.

The woman calmly spoke in clear english, through her helmet speakers, “I am known as, Rock. My associates and I have come a long way to see you, Captain Malcolm Reynolds, and your crew. We know much about you. We have an offer for you. Though, much of what we have to say is unbelievable. But, I do believe that the woman here known as River can verify that I am speaking the truth.”

Mal asked, in english, “Rock? Are you armed?”

Rock answered, in english, “I will not lie to you. I, and my crew are armed. But, if you decline our offer, we will simply leave.”

Mal lowered his weapon, as he ordered, “Lower your weapons. I don't think she came here to fight.” He mentally added, 'And we have our backs to the corner. So, let us hear what she has to offer us.'

Zoe and Jayne lowered their weapons.

Mal turned to River, as he requested, “River, please come here.” He then turned back to look at Rock.

From behind Inara, Kaylee, and Simon, Rock watched as a young, physically fit, redheaded woman approach her.

Rock turned to look at River, as she thought, 'I honestly forget her hair color. Still, I wonder. Why does it always have to be a redhead?”

River giggled, as she answered, in english, “Because it is fun that way. Though, I started to dye by hair red. My natural hair color is brown.”

Rock cracked a grin, as she agreed, “Oh. And it funny that way. Try not to look to deeply in my mind. I have seen some horrible things.”

River said, “I will try not too. But, I am not trained. So, some things might leak out. Besides, I can only read what you are thinking about... Well, that is interesting. So, what is it like, both ways?”

Rock smiled grew slightly wider, as she said, “Read my mind and find out.” She then thought of the answers to River's question.

River started giggling, again.

Jayne whispered to Mal, in english, “Captain, I have a feeling we are a part of conversation we really do not want to know about.”

Mal softly replied, “I agree.” He spoke up, “Ladies. If we could get down to business.”

Rock look at Mal, as she inquired, “Okay. I have one question. Have blue and brown robotic monsters been attacking you?”

Mal answered, “Yes. You know them?”

Rock responded, “Yes. They were sent by our enemies. They, and us, are not from the Verse. We are from other realities. We also know that due to events beyond your control, you have been pushed to the edge, without any options left. This is quite apparent.”

“As I said, Captain Reynolds. I will not lie to you. My offer is this. If you are willing to do an extremely dangerous delivery job. In exchange, afterward, we will relocate your ship, your crew, and yourself, to another reality with far better prospects for all of you. A reality much like the verse, but where none of you are hunted.”

Mal looked at River.

River turned to Mal, as she said, “She is not lying. Trust her, Mal.”

Mal and River turned to look back at Rock.

Mal asked, “How dangerous is this job?”

Rock answered, “We need you to fly through an orbital blockade of warships. Then, drop through a planetary atmosphere at high speed. For you to land right by a city sized fortress, filled with an army of walking death machines. Finally, for you to drop off the delivery and escape.”

Mal inquired, “What are we delivering?”

Rock answered, “Us. You drop us off, and then escape. And you do so, we will deal with our enemies, ourselves.”

Mal questioned, “Will we be expected to fight?”

Rock replied, “Not for you, if we can avoid it. We do not want you for your fighting skills. It is your god damn, balls to the wall, delivery skills that we want from you.”

Rock's comment made many of the Serenity crew snicker some.

Rock though, 'You guys had pulled crazy delivery jobs than the previous crew I was with.'

River said, “Thank you.”

Rock thought, 'You're welcome.'

Mal asked, “And where is the location?”

Rock stated, “An alternate Earth, in the early twenty-first century.”

Mal looked over at Zoe, his second in command.

Zoe turned to Mal, as she commented, in english, “Sir, I always did want to go to Earth.”

(_)

Meanwhile, Kaylee whispered to Simon and Inara, in english, “Now, that is a straight forward girl.”

Inara casually said, in english, “Maybe. Maybe not. I have a feeling there is a lot more to her than meets the eye. Simon, could other realities exist?”

Simon answered, in english, “Yes. My schooling briefly covered the theoretical work, the Alliance had done in the field. All the formulas they had shown pointed to, yes. That it is possible.”

Kaylee responded, “Then, even if the job is dangerous, we still might want to take it. Because, I don't see any other options.” Kaylee then thought, 'Only the captain and I know how low on supplies we are. We are all staring death in the face, in a couple of months.'

Inara said, “I agree with you, Kaylee.”

(_)

Nearby, Mal stated, “Okay, Rock. You have a deal. But, I want answers first. Then, we will do the job.”

Rock stated, “No problem. Given the way reality travel works, there is no rush. We have time to prepare. But first. May I bring the rest of my crew in? Once we are together, I will answer your questions and more.”

Mal looked at River.

River looked at him, as she answered, “It is not a trick. She really does want to help us, and answer our questions.”

Mal said, “Alright. Let us get your people inside.”

(_)

Half an hour later, everyone was inside the cargo hold. Everyone was in their usual clothes, and out of their environmental space suits. Save for Boba Fett, whom wearing his armor, and helmet.

To save space, Megatron was in alt car mode, and he had rode into the cargo hold, after the cargo door was opened up for him.

After Megatron rolled inside the cargo bay, the door was closed behind him, and the room was pressurized. This took a few minutes, along with the rewarming the air inside the cargo hold.

Rock's group was on the left side of the room. The crew of the Serenity on the right side of the room. With Megatron being between the two groups.

Rock had noted that Deadpool was keeping his word. As he not even looked over at River, from across the room.

Rock thought, 'Very good, Deadpool. You realize how important this meeting is to all of us.' She turned to look out at the people in the room, as she continued her thoughts, 'Now, to explain what is going on to everyone.'

Rock then explained the situation to them all.

Basic name introductions were made for everyone. Though, this was only names. Not, anyone's past. Such Annie introduced herself as Annie. She did not inform any of the other's about her past. Nor, did her friends mention her past, to the rest of those people that were present.

After introductions were concluded, Rock spent the next hour informing everyone of what was going on. From who Chang was. What his organization was. What technology they faced. To Chang's goals. To the revelation of their realities being fiction.

While, the Bad Company crew knew what was going on, the rest of those present, did not realize the extend of the situation they all found themselves in.

Rock finished her statement, by saying, “So, as you can see Chang not only knows a lot about us, and that we are all from fictional realities from each other. But, he wants to us, in his eugenics projects, to create an army of badasses. And those he does not use a breeding stock, will be brainwashed into his loyal servants.

For the Serenity Crew, and to a degree, the Distraction Crew, it was a lot to take in.

Jayne stated, “Do you expect us to believe this load of crap? That we are just entertainment to you. And let's not go into the dudes getting turned into women.”

Rock turned to Deadpool, as she requested, “Wade, do your work?”

Deadpool looked at Rock, then at Jayne. He casual requested, “Jayne, could you please show me Vera sometime?”

Jayne's eyes widened. He turned to Mal, as he stated, with worry in his tone of voice, “Captain. I think we are in trouble.”

Mal retorted, “When are we not in trouble?” Mal raised an eyebrow towards Deadpool, as he challenged him, “You are going to have to do better than that, to convince me.”

Deadpool smirked under this mask, as he happily responded, “Well, Mister Former Leeroy Jenkins. I accept your challenge. The Sheppard Book. God rest his soul. All who know of him considered him a wonderful man. His fans included. And he is the only black man in existence to pull off the Einstein fro and make it work. But, Book was able too. Though, Book hid his hair's potential, most of the time, by pulling his hair back into a ponytail.”

Everyone then heard River whimper, “The hair. Please, don't mention the hair.”

Mal turned to River, then back to Deadpool. He inquired, “How do I got the feeling the longer this goes on, the more embarrassing it is going to be for us?”

Deadpool chuckled evilly. He said, “Don't be that way Mal. We love when you aim to misbehave. To that end, I can regal you with your own tales, all day long.”

Akira interrupted, “Trust me Captain Reynolds. Don't tempt him. He can. The man lives to talk.”

Deadpool turned to Zoe, as he stated, “For the record Zoe. All us fans wish to have a few words with your series creator, over killing off, not only Book, but Wash. We loved you guys, being together.”

Zoe sadly smiled, as she said, “I appreciate that.”

Mal asked, “So, there is a god? And he is as twisted as everyone else?”

Deadpool replied, “Yes. And trust me. Compared to the cheerleaders and the spies, you guys got off really lucky.”

Mal pointed out, “Every where we know of has been destroyed. And we are being chased by a near unstoppable fleet, to the edge known space. And you consider that to be, lucky?”

Wade explained, “Yes. His other series dealt with literal gates to hell, and mind screwing, at a level that makes what was done to, River, over there, look sane, in comparison.”

River piped up, “You are one to talk, Mister Crazy Pants. At least I have better fashion taste than you.”

Wade looked at River as he shrugged. He said, “That goes without saying.” Wade turned back to Mal, as he explained, “Look on the bright side. Your series has ended. We are here. The future is literally wide open for you. We are even opening the door for you. All we are asking you to do is to step through the door.”

Mal asked, “Why do I feel like Alice, from Wonderland?”

John spoke up, “Better than being Dorothy, from Kansas.”

Rock calmly spoke, “Captain Reynolds. We both know your back is to the wall. We are not asking you to fight, nor die, for us. All we are asking of you is something you have already done before. You drop us off. We take care of business, and signal for your return to us.”

Mal replied, “And what if you lose? And we never get that return signal?”

Rock said, “In that case, I have a plan B for you, that I will tell you later. Sufficed to say, even if we fail, you will end up in a situation that will offer the possibility of far better lives than you presently have, right now. Either way, you problems with the Alliance are over. They will not be able to reach you.”

Mal took a hard look at Rock, in her eyes for a few seconds. He then stated, “You have a deal.”

Mal held out his right hand.

Rock walked over a shook his hand, with her own right hand.

Both noticed that the other's hand shake was firm, but not tight.

As they shook hands, Rock stated, “Good.”

As second later, they broke their handshake.

Jayne commented, “Captain. Not to interrupt this lovey dovey moment. Though, you may have a point with the reality angle, but even I do not believe in that gender bending garbage.”

Duke spoke up, as he sarcastically said, “Well, Mister Macho, I know it is a little hard to swallow. When I first saw someone change their gender back and forth in front of me, I thought I had too much to drink. But, it is real.”

Simon defended Jayne, “From a medical standpoint, What they are claiming would be very difficult. If not outright impossible. Just from a stand point of DNA alterations, would take months, if years, to do. Certainly not seconds.” He turned to Rock, as he continued, “Such a quick change, in the way you describe it, Rock. Would burn out the person's metabolism and kill them instantly.”

Duke turned to Natsuru, as he requested, “Show them, Miss Blue.”

Natsuru rolled her eyes, as she said, “Fine.”

Natsuru looked over at the Serenity crew, as she walked out closer to the center of the cargo hold, where Megatron was.

Natsuru then used her bracelet to change from a slender woman to a more buff guy, as her clothing changed from a white and black seifuku, to pants, a shirt, and shoes.

The sight surprised the Serenity Crew, and Boba Fett.

After watching the change, Inara was the first to speak, as she said, “I think our lives have just got a whole lot more interesting.”

Fabiola commented, “You have no idea.”

Jayne visibly paled, as he thought, 'Dead lord. Everything they said was true.”

Natsuru then changed back to a woman, with her clothing changing to her white and black seifuku.

Mal immediately turned to Simon, as he ordered, “Simon. I want you to do every medical scan on her, as quickly as possible. I need an answer in three minutes.”

Simon said, “Yes Captain.”

Simon looked over at Natsuru, as he requested, “I believe your name is, Natsuru.”

Natsuru replied, “Yes. Doctor Tam.”

Simon requested, “Thank you, calling me doctor. If you do not mind, I would like to run a couple of tests on you.”

Natsuru commented, “As long as it doesn't involve needles, nor medical instruments inserted into my body. I will consent to your tests.”

Simon said, “Just a couple of quick scans, while you change back and forth.”

Natsuru responded, “That will be fine. And to answer you first question. I was born male.”

Simon commented, “That does answer that question. Thank you. If you will please follow me.” He then turned towards one of the exits to the cargo bay.

Simon then lead Natsuru out of the cargo bay, and to the medical bay.

As Simon and Natsuru left the room, Jayne turned to Mal. Jayne stated,“Captain. My momma said once that pretty girls might some day lead me to Hell. But, I didn't know she was being literal. I say, we take our chances leaving this system. Before today, I thought the worst possible fate was being captured by reavers. But, what they are talking about is far worse. Cold and lack of air is not that bad way to go compared to the alternatives.”

Mal turned to Zoe.

Zoe shrugged, as she said, “Jayne does have a point, sir.”

Mal replied, “Fine. We will keep that as Plan B”

Nearby, John overheard them. He stated, “Nice idea. But, the those after all of us won't stop. And nothing is impossible for them to do. They will eventually find you find your frozen corpses, reanimate you back to the living, and then you are screwed. Literally.”

“We might as well fight them. If we die. Fine. But, from those I see here, there is a good chance we all might live through this. We just need proper planning and preparation, beforehand.”

Mal turned to John, as he agreed, “That is true.”

Jayne commented, “Looks like we are stuck on this ride.”

John turned to Jayne, as he responded, “I agree. I suggest we strap in, and pray.”

Jayne replied, “Wise words.”

(_)

While conversation continued, Fett just stood silently, by one of the walls. He watched the insanity around him unfold. He thought, 'I just want to go back to my simple life. My really simple life. Take a job. Protect, capture, or kill targets. Get paid. Have fun. Why did I get dragged into this mess?'

Across the room, River turned to Fett, as she commented, “We ask ourselves that question a lot.”

Fett turned to River, as he inquired, “Telepath?”

River answered, “Yes. And your secrets are nothing compared to some of the people here. I do not even want to go near the one known as Deadpool. The one in the black and red costume. His boxes scare me.”

Fett looked over at Deadpool, than back at River, as he asked, “What boxes?”

River replied, “You do not want to know.”

Fett decided to change the subject, as he inquired, “Who is the pilot for this ship?”

River answered, “I am.”

Fett thought, 'Just great. I have put my life into the hands of lunatics... Again...'

River took offense to Fett's thought. She replied, in an annoyed tone of voice, “Hey. I will have you know I have gotten much than the way I use to be. I have worked though many of my personal issues, with the help of this crew.”

Fett questioned, “And how were you before?”

River winced, as she admitted, “Half the time catatonic. The other half, violently crazy.”

Fett deadpanned, “You are not helping your case.”

River quietly said, “I know.”

Fett commented, “Still, in my experience, the crazy pilots tend to fly fine. It is just their occasional choices of landing styles that you have to worry about. Many of them consider, landing safely, to be only a suggestion to them.”

River firmly stated, “I promise that your feet will safely touch the ground when we get to the target location. I cannot promise the ship will be in one piece at the time, but you will arrive safely to your destination.”

Fett shrugged, as he replied, “I can live with that.”

River just smiled towards Fett.

(_)

Meanwhile, Kaylee, and Irana were standing near each other, as Kaylee turned to Vash.

Vash looked over at Kaylee, as he noticed her looking at him. He kindly asked, “Is there something you need miss.

Kaylee asked, “So, Mister Blond. What is your story?”

Vash gave Kaylee a genuinely warm smile, as he answered, “Me? I am just along for the ride.”

(_)

Nearby, Mal turned to Rock, as he asked, “Is Natsuru the only one that can do that trick?”

Rock answered, “No.” She looked over at her team, as she asked, “Is it okay if we tell them?”

Akira, Ranma, and Annie nodded.

Rock requested, “Akira, you start.”

Akira stated, “I was originally male. I can change from woman to man and back with a sneeze. I just won't do it while wearing this.” She used her hands to gesture at the sexy cowgirl outfit she was wearing.

Mal said, “We thank you for your modesty.”

Akira giggled, in response to Mal's comment.

Ranma said, “I was born a boy. I change into a man with hot water, and back into a woman with cold water. If you want to provide the water, I can show you.”

Mal said, “Maybe later. I don't feel like pulling out a mop and bucket, right now.”

Akira mentioned, “Ranma, Natsuru and I are also in a relationship.”

Inara commented, “Your love life must be very entertaining.”

Akira smiled at Inara, as she said, “We never get bored.”

Akira and Ranma then giggled for a few seconds.

Soon after, Annie softly spoke, in a sober tone of voice, “I was once a man, as well. I have been known by two names. Anakin Skywalker and Darth Vader.”

On the outside, Boba Fett was silent, as he turned his helmeted head to face Annie. On the inside, he thought with shock, 'Okay. Now, I am scared. If they can turn Vader into... Her. I do not want to think about what would happen if these monsters got their hands on me. Still, Vader being Skywalker explains a lot, about the mysteries surrounding the fall of the Jedi, and the rise of the Empire.'

Annie continued, in the same sober tone of voice, “When I was rescued, I was already brainwashed. Fortunately, I was not impregnated, yet. But, the brainwashing did effect my personality. I was brainwashed to be subservient. Though, with time I was able to breaking my programing. And if any of you are wondering. Yes. The change is complete. I am reminded of that fact, once a week, per month.”

Everyone knew what she was talking about.

Rock stated, “Much like Annie, I was changed into a woman by the same process. Only, unlike her, I was not brainwashed. It is a long story.” She pulled out her wallet from her pocket. She pulled a picture from her wallet, as she said, “This is a picture of what I looked like as a man. I am the one in the business shirt and tie.”

Rock handed the picture to Kaylee first.

While Kaylee and Inara looked at the picture of a male Rock, a asian redheaded woman, a dark skinned man, and a blond young man, Kaylee commented, “You were cute... Not saying you are not now, but still...”

Rock made a weak smiled, as she said, “It's okay.”

The next few minutes were quiet, as the picture was passed around from Kaylee, to Mal, to Zoe, to Jayne, to River, to Duke, to Wade, to Boba Fett, to Vash, whom returned the picture back to Rock.

Rock put the picture back into her wallet, and she then pocketed her wallet. She looked around the room, as she said, “As you can see. We are very serious about what we are claiming, is going on.”

Before anyone could reply to Rock's commented, Simon and Natsuru walked back into the cargo hold.

Natsuru was still a woman, in a white and black seifuku.

Natsuru walked over to join Akira and Ranma, while Simon headed over to Mal.

When Simon came to a stop, beside Mal, he turned to face his ship's captain.

Mal turned to Simon, as he requested, “Your results, doctor.”

Simon stated, “I will study the scans I made of her, later. In more detail. But, I cannot make heads, nor tails of how the gender changing is done.” He turned to Natsuru, as he continued, “Natsuru here can change her gender at will. It is not an illusion. The change is complete. Skin, tissue, bone structure, organ changes, genitalia, even minor alterations to her brain. When she is a woman. She is physically woman. When he is a man. He is physically a man.” He turned back to Mal, as he went onto say, “While there, Natsuru informed me about Ranma and Akira's abilities, and their relationship together.”

Mal replied, “We know. They told us, about that, as well. Also, we have just been informed that Annie and Rock use to be men.”

Simon looked at the trio of Akira, Natsuru, and Ranma, as he stated, with excitement in his voice, “I cannot even begin to imagine the long term physiological effects of being able to change back and forth, would do to someone. Let only three different people sharing an intimate relationship with each other.”

Ranma, Akira, and Natsuru, all had the decency to blush.

Meanwhile, Mal noticed a wild glint in Inara's eye. He thought, 'If I did not know better. I would think she was envious of these three.'

Simon continued to look at the three gender bending lovers, as he stated, “Listen. I am not a mad scientist. I am not going to ask to physically study you. But, I would like to get you three, as they say, each on the couch sometime. And not in that way. Just so you can answer a few questions. Along with expressing your views and thoughts in how you deal with your gender bending. And how such experiences have changed your lives. We would break new ground. In psychological research. In so many ways.”

Ranma said, “I think I can speak for the three of us in saying that we will have to decline your offer. We just don't have the time.”

Simon commented, “Mores the pity.”

Rock looked around the room, as she asked, “Any other questions?”

Vash inquired, “I have a question. If they are after you, for breeding. Why did they come after me? I am actually not human. I am a plant.”

Akira commented, “I guess Chang would want to study your angel arm.”

Vash agreed, “That would make sense.”

Jayne asked, “What is an angel arm?”

Deadpool turned to Jayne, as he answered, “Vash's right arm can turn into a nuclear cannon, that has the power to destroy entire cities in one shot. His left arm probably could do the same. Except he lost that arm a while back, and he has an artificial left arm, now.”

Vash looked over at Deadpool, and frowned. He then turned dropped his frown, as he turned back to look at Jayne.

Jayne hesitantly said, “Okay.”

Mal looked at Vash, as he asked, “Am I going to have to worry about you, over this?”

Vash turned to Mal, as he answered, “No. I abhor killing. I would rather die, than use that weapon again, to harm another life.”

River said, “He is telling the truth.”

Mal asked, “Then, while are you here?”

Vash answered, “To keep everyone else from going too far. While, I don't like killing. I am very good with my guns.”

Mal questioned, “How good?”

Vash coyly said, “Good enough to be here.”

Mal replied, “Okay.”

John turned to Vash, as he said, “Just so you know. You are not the first plant person I know of. And one of them was good friend of mine. Very nice, and caring woman.”

Vash looked over at John, as he replied, “That is nice to know. Did the look like me?”

John answered, “Actually, they are bald, and with blue skin. But, I have a question... Do you feel... Pleasure, when out in the sun, like they do?”

Vash was quite for a couple of seconds, until he understood what John was asking. He cracked a grin, as he said, “Why do you think I where a full body coat in the middle of a hot desert day?”

John returned Vash's smile, as he joked, “So, that is why you are in a good mood almost all the time... Love and peace, indeed.”

John and Vash both laughed at John's joke.

Those that got the joke, also laughed with them.

As they calmed down, Boba asked, “I have an inquiry, as well. What I do not understand is why come after me? I am a clone? My father's DNA can be bought very easily on the black market, from the galaxy I come from.”

Akira turned to Fett, as she answered, “Because you have the most unaltered, pure DNA of your father. And Chang could not go after your father, because it would royally screw up the timeline of your reality...” She looked over at Annie, as she commented, “More so, than he had already done.” She then turned back to Fett, as she continued, “Also, you are a badass in you own right. That is why Chang is after you. He does not just want to use your DNA. He also want your soul, which makes you a badass.”

In response, Fett just silently nodded towards Akira. He thought, 'Well, that answers my question. I always wanted to be judged for my skills, but not in this way.'

Jayne asked, “I have a question. What is with the vehicle?” Jayne then pointed at Megatron with left hand, due to his right hand still holding his pistol. A few seconds later, Jayne dropped his left hand back to his side.

Megatron spoke, “I am not just a vehicle. I am Megatron. I do not change into my robot mode due to the tight space. But, do not refer to me as an inanimate object.”

John turned the Serenity crew, as he explained, “Megatron is a tyrannical leader of an army of million plus year old robotic beings, that locked in a war with another army of same species. Though, all in all, he has been very good about his situation.”

Mal questioned, “Do we need to worry about him?”

John replied, “Nah. As long as you don't antagonize him, we should be fine.”

Mal replied, “Good.” He looked around the room, as he stated, “It looks like this meeting is over. As your host and Captain, I would be remiss not to offer you something to eat. Though, our supplies are somewhat limited, right now.”

Rock smiled, as she commented, “No problem. We have reality jumping technology. We can just jump to any reality we need to go to find the supplies we need. Also, in many cases, Megatron can hack local bank servers to allow us to have the funds to buy what we need.”

Mal looked down at Rock, as he returned Rock's smiled. He said, in a genuinely happy tone of voice, “I think I am going to enjoy our business relationship, together.”

Rock continued smiling, as she replied, “I hope so.”

Mal looked over at everyone else, as he said, “Okay, people. Everyone start making lists of what we need. We are going shopping, as soon as possible.”

Zoe asked, “Shopping for what, sir?”

Mal turned to Zoe, as he smirked. He answered, “Everything we need.”

Jayne inquired, “Since we now have access to some funds. Is there any chance we would also be getting a few items we don't necessarily need, right now, but would like to have?”

Mal turned to Rock, for the answer to Jayne's question.

Rock noticed Mal looked at her. She answered, “It depends on the item. We will talk about it, on a case by case basis. But, these will not be Christmas list shopping trips.”

Mal replied, “Fair enough. Now, everyone, let's get a move on.” He turned Simon, as he requested, “Simon. Inara. Show our guests to the living area. And keep this entertained, until I can speak to them.”

Inara said, “Sure.”

Simon replied, “Okay.”

Inara and Simon turned to their guests, as Inara requested, “If you will please follow us.”

Rock replied, “Sure.”

Inara and Simon then lead Rock's group to the living area of the ship.

Meanwhile, Jayne, Zoe, River, and Kaylee, headed out of the cargo bay, to do check lists on what they need.

As the room started to clear out, Mal stopped his engineer, Kaylee. He whispered to her, “Kaylee, while we are getting prepared for this job. I want you to rig the engines to explode at a moments notice. If we have a stall out, and we are overrun during the mission, I want to make damn sure none of us live through what they told us about.”

Kaylee turned to Mal, as she replied, “Aye captain.”

Kaylee and Mal then left the cargo bay, to carry out their jobs, as well.

As the room emptied out, Megatron enjoyed the quiet, as he slowly recharged his energy reserves.

(_)

Four days later, after much planning, preparation, and several supply trips to other realities, the various badass crews, in the Serenity spaceship, were ready.

Though, preparing for the battle took time. As Rock and Bad Company had fill a very large list of items that everyone had made for the battle. Along with a few other items and supplies.

They bought most of it, and they stolen the rest. It was when they had to steal items that Rock learn how skilled at thievery Ranma truly was.

Among the lists of items, was finding Megatron enough compatible energy to hook his reality jumping system into the Serenity. So the entire ship, along with the armor outside the ship, would jump with them. Then, there was getting weapons, ammo, and equipment for everyone. Also, there was the issues of refueling and resupplying the Serenity, itself.

But, by the middle of the third day they had finally finished preparing. And they took the rest of the day off, and had a good night's sleep.

The next morning. After everyone had gotten ready to face the day and had eaten breakfast, they were ready for battle.

(_)

Inside the cargo hold of the Serenity, Rock and the others in her group were strapped inside Megatron in alt car mode, with the car's wheels locked in place, to the floor, until they were ready to leave the cargo hold.

Vash, Fett, Deadpool, and Duke were strapped in their seats, which were place by the side of the wall, to Megatron's left side. The chairs were welded to the floor and wall.

The Serenity Crew were strapped and ready, at their places within their ship.

In the cockpit, River was at the helm. Mal and Zoe were to seated behind her.

The seats that Mal and Zoe were in, were added, some time between the battle on Mister Universe’s Moon and meeting Rock and her group. With the two chairs being welded, and bolted to the floor.

Zoe was sitting to Mal's left side.

Presently, Mal used the intercom system, which was to his right side, on the panel. He stated “This is your captain. As soon as Rock is ready, we will be beginning our flight, with a reality jump by Megatron and Rock. I hope you all enjoyed your stay, and I wish you luck in you endeavors.”

Mal turned off the speak to the intercom, as he waited for Rock's reply. Mal then noticed Zoe smiling at him.

Mal turned to Zoe, as he said, “Since they are likely going to their deaths. or worse, I figured I might as well be polite. If nothing else, we have already gotten a lot from them. So, we at least owe their this, as a courtesy.”

Zoe replied, “I agree, sir.”

River stated, “I have a feeling we are embarking on a grander journey than we realize.”

Zoe commented, “You may have a point, River. After this, we may be able to get the choice of traveling to any reality we can imagine.”

Mal said, “I can imagine a lot.”

Zoe stated, “So can I.”

River cautioned, “I would suggest we go to a reality like the Verse. We do not want to go to a paradise reality.”

Zoe asked, “Why not?”

River stated, “Because we would likely become too bored.”

Mal shrugged, as he conceded, “I can see your point. The one thing you cannot do in paradise, is misbehave.”

River replied, “Exactly.”

Zoe admitted, “You're probably right... I wonder why it is taking Rock so long?”

Mal said, “She is likely checking with her crew. Just like I do. Before takeoff. It is a sign of good leadership.”

(_)

At that moment, inside the cargo hold of the Serenity, Rock was sitting in the driver's seat of Megatron. She look over at every one in the car. She asked, “Ready?”

They all nodded.

Rock then rolled the window down. She turned to the Distraction Team. She questioned, “Are you guys ready?”

Vash said, “Whenever you are?”

Duke stated, “I was born ready.”

Deadpool looked over at Duke, as he whine, “Damn, Duke. You stole my line.”

Duke just turned to Wade, as he smirked.

Wade turned to Rock, as he said, “Rock, let's just get this show on the road.”

Boba Fett coldly said, “I am not paid to wait.”

Rock rolled up the window. She then strapped herself, securely, in her seat. When she was finished with her straps, she pulled out her reality key.

Rock inquired, “Megatron, how are your energy levels? Do you have enough power to pull this off?”

Megatron stated, “Yes. But, let us only do this once. Any more and it will drain me back to where I have been.”

Rock responded, “I only need one shot at this. Still, are you going to be able to fight after this?”

Megatron answered, “I should be fine. Just be happy we found a way to recharge my energy reserves.”

Rock commented, “Yes. We are going to need you in this fight.”

Megatron stated, “I look forward to showing you what I can do on the battlefield, when I am not hampered by low energy reserves.”

Rock stated, “Then, let's see that first hand.”

As Rock insert the key into Megatron's dashboard, she thought of going to her home reality, in orbit over Thailand, on the day after Revy had returned from Revy's visit with Rock on Naboo.

Rock then turned the key and Serenity, the armor outside it, everyone and everything inside ship, disappeared, as they all instantly jumped to another reality.

To be continued.

(_)

Author's Notes:

While, you may not yet realize it. In this chapter, from the bar scene, to after the battle, when everyone left, and the bad girls went to get some drinks at partially destroyed bar. That was the most complicated scene I have written, to date.

This was the most intricate set of scenes I have had ever worked on. The scenes had eleven separate points of views, from individuals to groups. It required a lot of effort to make the story work.

I am very proud of the finished work. Because of how complicated these scenes were, it required real skill to pull off.

Though, this is only part one. After you read all the parts, you will understand what I am talking about.

Though, those parts do not come until later. The next chapter of this book is not the next part.

Also, these scenes offered a lot of clues, about where I am going with my anthology. So, here are the clues to many of the mysteries in my anthology.

(_)

Fun fact. One of the first internet game mods invented for a game was a game mod that added Bubblegum Crisis OVA elements to the original Duke Nukem game. So, Duke and the Knight Sabers have unofficially cross paths a few times. And yes. I even remember that mod. Around two decades after it was released.

(_)

In the Futaba-Kun Change manga, the character was known as P.E. coach was known as Mister Strike. The series strongly hints that he is a retired, Duke Nukem.

It should also be noted that is a lot of Street Fighter background jokes in the Futaba-Kun Chang manga. Including, the Street Fighter characters being shown as plushy dolls, in a teenage girl's bedroom.

This is one of the reasons I included the Street Fighter characters into the reality that Ranma, Akira, Natsuru, Futaba, and their friends, are from.

Anyway, I figured. What if Strike really was Duke Nukem? Then, everything else fell into place, with Duke.

Also, if Strike is Duke's last name. With Nukem being a nickname, then, Duke's full name is hilarious.

Because then, Duke's full name is, “Duke 'Nukem' Strike.” As in, 'nuke strike'. LOL!

(_)

On the matter of the Firefly-Serenity timeline.

I honestly like Wash. And I respected Book. I did not like that I had to use the post-Serenity movie timeline. But, I had to for a couple of reasons, to make the plot work.

First, for those wondering, I not using the post-Serenity movie comics. So, Zoe is not pregnant. But, as a tradeoff, Inara is not dying.

The reason I am not using the post-Serenity comics is that when I think about it, the comic series comes into conflict with the plot of the Serenity movie.

The Serenity crew was really boxed in at the end of the movie. They had nowhere to go.

Here is why. At the beginning of the movie, it is pointed that the Serenity crew's 'sky' was already closing in on them. With their options already being limited on where they could go, and make a living.

One of the reasons for the bank robbery at the beginning of the movie, was because they had no other options left to make money to survive. They were already on the ragged edge as it was.

This is probably the reason Book left. He could not stand the moral situation the Serenity crew found themselves in. And Book did not want to be a part of it. That is one of the reason I respect Book.

So, as the 'sky' was closing in on them, then comes the Operative, and he had bombed and destroyed every place, and nearly everyone, connected to the Serenity crew, to keep the Serenity crew from going to ground.

Think about what I am saying. Think of the horror of what I am saying. Every place. And almost everyone.

And before any of you question what I am saying, let us look at the Operative, as a character. Along with his personality.

The three words that be describe the Operative is, 'blind, thorough fanatic'. He is also an idiot. But, more on the in a minute. Still, he is thorough at his job.

Depending on how important the communications systems were on Mister Universe's moon, when the Serenity crew dived for Mister Universe's moon. Followed closely ships full of reavers, a sane man would have escaped on his ship. While he ordered his other ships to either jam all signal frequencies coming from the moon. As the same time, the person in charge could just left the reavers kill the Serenity crew. Or, just bomb the moon into rubble. What is one more destroyed moon, after all the bombings the Operative already ordered.

But, the Operative had to go that extra mile, and he when down the moon, to personally make sure the job was done.

And if the Operative had left things alone, either the reavers, or the Alliance squads would have killed the Serenity crew. With the Alliance squads arriving just after River killed all the reavers that came after the Serenity crew, on foot.

So, as you can see, given the Operative's personality. He does not do things in half measures. When he goes after everyone and everything connected to a person, or group. He likely means everyone and everything.

The only survivors to the Operative's scorched Earth policy were due to his Alliance subordinates missing them in their bombing attacks.

This is why I feel that the post-Serenity movie comics conflict with the movie plot. Because there is literally was nowhere left for the Serenity crew to go to.

Also, the end of the movie shows that the Serenity crew knows they can do the job that Rock wants them to do. And at this point, the Serenity crew are boxed in and cornered. As such, they have not choice but to take Rock's offer for a second chance in another reality. And Rock realizes this.

As you probably figured out, by now, Rock is a real magnificent bastard/bitch when it comes to getting people to do what he/she wants them to do.

Now, onto the effects of the Operative's actions. Due to the Operative's scorched earth policy, he has pretty much doomed the Alliance.

There no question who did all that destruction. Considering the Alliance is the only military power left after the war. They are only ones that could pull it off. And no one can hide that level of destruction from the rest of the civilization of the Verse, for long.

Those places and people that the Serenity crew were connected to ran the gambit from former Browncoat territories, to Alliance worlds. And while those that were bombed did not survive, their enraged and grieving families, whom were elsewhere, did survive. For these families, their lose is personal.

Once word got out about these crimes against humanity, on top of the revelations of genocide on the planet, Miranda, and the creation of reavers, the Operative likely not only restarted the Unification War, but he also probably started a bloody civil war within the Alliance, itself.

The worst part is that by all accounts, he did not have to do anything. Miranda and the reavers would have come down to River's word, against the Alliance’s word. And the Alliance controlled the police, the courts, and the press. Even Simon, River's brother, and a trained doctor, admitted that River is insane. Though, she has gotten much better, by the end of the Serenity movie.

If the Operative had made an offer for Mal to continue to take care of River and Simon, and keep them quiet, in exchange for a large sum of money, and a full pardon for by the Alliance for him and his crew. Those bombs the Alliance used against the Serenity crew's allies probably were not cheap. And given the dire straights Mal and his crew were already in. As much as Mal loathes the Alliance, Mal might have taken the deal.

(_)

On the issue of Simon wanting to put Ranma, Akira, and Natsuru, on the couch. While, due to what happened to his sister, River, Simon would be against experimenting on people. Simon would likely have no problems with simply asking someone some questions. With the people in question, first consenting to being questioned.

(_)

The love scene between Rock and Revy was to show that they still cared deeply about each other. Even though Revy is brainwashed, and Rock is now a woman.

I tried to keep that scene as clean as possible. I hope it was okay with you, the readers.

Also, Annie catching Rock, after Revy leaving, was to show, that Rock would not get in trouble with having sex with Revy, due to the fact that Rock made it very clear that she still loved Revy.

Until next time. Have fun.