Badasses Of the Multiverse, Book 3: “The Student, The Hacker, and The Soldier.”

Chapter Eight: “New York Rhapsody.”

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.

(_)

In an Alternate Marvel Comics Reality. Earth, New York City. Early Twenty-First Century. In the middle of the night.

There was a bar, whose main entrance was in a dark alleyway.

The bar was where many villains of that city came on their off hours.

Many of the villains that sat among the chairs, at their tables, and at the stools, on the bar counters, were still in costume. Though, some were in their civilian clothing.

The villains came there to relax, unwind, and have a drink. With them either talking to each other, or sitting alone, with their thoughts to keep them company.

Though, the bartender, bounder, and other staff, did not tolerate trouble. Causing trouble would have them thrown out, or banned from the bar.

While in costume, Shocker, AKA Herman Schultz, sat in a chair, at a table. He was enjoying a bottle of beer. He had the bottom of his mask pulled up to let him use his mouth.

Across from him, at the table, was the skull faced Taskmaster, whom sat in a chair, as he was enjoying a bottle of beer, as well.

Taskmaster's skull face mask allowed him to eat and drink, without partly removing his mask.

Herman looked at Tony, as he calmly thought, 'It is interesting who you meet in bars like this. And who would have guessed I would have develop such a good friendship with the Taskmaster.'

'And it all started in this very bar, one night, while my friends were in jail, or out of town. Both Tony and I were having drinks alone. And I decided to start a conversation with Tony. We soon found we had a lot in common.'

'We are both in it for the money. We believe we should be professionals, when doing this line of work. We both find revenge to be stupid. We like planning things through, before we act. And we are happy to run, preferably with the money, if things go south.'

'Soon after, we started calling each other by our first names.'

'Why we haven't met, and talked like this sooner, I do not know.'

Taskmaster inquired, “So Herman, what are you plans for tonight?”

Herman answered, “Well Tony, I was waiting for my crew. But, they are an hour later. And I do not think they are going to show up.”

Tony stated, “That is likely. Maybe they, decided to call off whatever you plans are, without telling you.”

Herman commented, “Perhaps. It would not be the first time. But, why would they?”

Tony said, “Well, the heroes mysteriously disappearing has got everyone spooked.”

Herman responded, “I wouldn't worry. This is not the first time. They will be back before everyone knows its, and it will be business as usual.”

Tony took a drink from bottle of beer. He then shrugged, as he commented, “I don't know. Something about this feels different. Like that feeling you get when you need to leave right now.” Next, he set his bottle of beer back onto the table.

Herman replied, “Yea. I know that feeling. On my successful jobs. Half time I guess away, is because I listen to that feeling.”

Tony said, “Well, I have now been getting that feeling all the time. Like I need to leave the planet, right now.” He thought, 'And with my connections. I could actually arrange that.'

Herman admitted, “You are not the only one.”

Tony asked, “Well, considering many of the heroes are gone, want to team up? Standard bank heist? Go for the vault, and deposit boxes inside?” He thought, 'After all. You are one of the best safe crackers on the planet.'

Herman answered, “Sure. But, I like to plan out my bank heist.”

Tony laughed. He then said, “Yes. You do.”

Herman stated, “And when the heroes disappear, the cops tend to be a little more trigger happy. And neither of us are bulletproof.”

Tony agreed, “True.”

Herman continued, “So, if we did anything, it would not be tonight.”

Tony responded, “You have a point there. And I have heard some interesting things about you. And I want to see how you measure up at work to what I heard.”

Herman guessed, “So, you think your photographic reflexes also copy bank robbery planning and safe cracking?”

Tony admitted, “Lord, I hope so. And even if I don't rob a bank, the safe cracking, and bank robbery planning would make a nice teaching lesson for instructor courses. When I teach my courses.”

Herman offered, “Now, that is an idea. And if you are just after my safe cracking and planning skills. I am more than happy to teach them too you, for a fair, up front fee.”

Tony questioned, “You don't want a percentage of my school's proceeds?”

Herman stated, “I learned a long time ago to take payment for a job, up front.”

Tony cracked a grin, as he commented, “I knew there was a reason I liked you. I will think about it.”

Herman said, “Take your time. I am in no rush. And the fee is negotiable.”

Suddenly, the outside door to the bar swung open, and the bouncer to the club was thrown into the room, and onto his back.

Tony and Herman looked at each other.

Herman said, “Trouble.”

Tony agreed, “Yes.”

Then, everyone, including Herman, and Tony, turned to see a strange man step into the bar.

The man was in good physical shape, and of average height. He was fair skinned man with black hair that went to his neck line, along with him having a full, groomed, bushy, black beard.

The man wore in a brown long coat, brown shirt, brown pants, black boots, brown cowboy hat, and sunshades. He had a leather satchel. The brown, leather strap of the satchel went from his left shoulder, to across his chest and back, to have on be sat on the right side of his waist.

The man stood there, as he looked around the room, at everyone.

The man then noticed some of the people at the tables about to get up.

The man pulled back the right side of his brown long coat, and satchel. He right hand then fell over his holstered revolver, as he growled, “Don't.”

Everyone saw that the man was serious, and considering they did not want a fight, they quickly backed down.

The man kept his right hand on his holstered revolver, as he walked across the room, between the tables, and chairs, where many of the people in the room were sitting, without giving the patrons of the establishment a second looked.

A few seconds later, he made his way to the bar counter, where the bartender what standing, on the other side of the counter, looking at him.

While the man did so, the customers at the bar counter immediately moved out of the way of the man.

When the man reached the bar counter, without warning, he used his left hand to grab the scruff of the front of the bartender's shirt.

He pulled the bartender down close to his own face, as he whispered to bartender.

Everyone else watched them quietly talk to each other for a full minute, but for the man let go of bartender. With the bartender leaning back up straight.

Then, the man said, “Thank you.”

While keeping his hand on his revolver, the man turned around, and he swiftly walked back, the way he had came, and out of the bar.

When the man reached the door way, he slammed the door behind him.

At the bouncer began to get back up, no one was sure what to make, of what happened.

At the table, where Herman and Tony were sitting, the took men looked at each other.

Tony commented, “No fighting.”

Herman added, “No questioning. Except the bartender.”

Tony added, “No threatening. Just a simple warning.”

Herman stated, “No long winded speeches.”

Tony requested, “I want to know who that man is.”

Herman agreed, “So do I.” He lowered the bottom part of his mask under his chin.

Both men got up, and they then headed for the door that lead to the outside of the bar.

(_)

Meanwhile, as Bob exited the bar, and into the alleyway, he left out the breath he was holding. He thought, 'That went better than I could have hoped. No threats. And no fights. Unfortunately, the bartender told me that mad scientists tend to stay away from the rank and file villains... Damn. I am getting desperate if I am looking to turn to a comicbook mad scientist to find a cure for Boris' cancer.... Maybe this isn't such a good idea. I did think of it while I was drunk at Quarks...'

From the corner of his eye, Bob glint of light from the roof across from the bar.

Bob quickly rolled to his his right side, with him coming to a stop, on his right knee, and left foot, as he drew his revolver, and shot one bullet from the hip, toward the glint of light.

Three seconds later, someone fell from the roof, with a sniper rifle, with scope attachment, landing beside him.

Bob stood up, took aim with his pistol, and he double-tapped the person, by firing two more shots into the person's skull.

Bob then looked at the body, as he thought, 'I know the comicbook rules. I am not taking any chances. But, I figure, at least two rounds in the skull is going to kill someone using a firearm. Now, who is this?'

Bob walk over to the body.

It was a man laying on his back. The face was still intact enough to be recognizable. But, the white skull symbol on his black t-shirt was the dead give away.

Bob thought, with concern, 'I killed the Punisher. Anyone else, I would feel guilty about. But, he is a hypocritical psycho on a level that makes the Lagoon women look sane.'

Just then, from behind him, Bob heard the door to the bar open, and then soon close.

A few seconds later, Bob also heard a male voice yell, “Oh my god! You killed the Punisher!”

Bob turned around to see the Taskmaster and the Shocker standing there. Even with their masks on, Bob could tell there were surprised expressions on their faces.

Bob thought, 'On the bright side, those two are known not to start a fight, unless money is involved.'

Taskmaster walked over to Frank Castle and looked him. He stated, “Yes. He is dead. The brain is gone. Not even Frankenstein could revive him, now.”

Bob mentally reflected, 'That storyline was interesting. Though, the ending to it was weak.'

Shocker looked over at Bob, as he said, “First, we are not angry. We are actually very happy about you killing him. But literally, how could you kill the Punish? He is like one of the most dangerous badasses in the city?”

Bob smirked, as he stated, “Frank Castle is a pussy compared to who I usually face.”

Bob heard, a familiar female voice, on the end of the alleyway to his right side, loudly say, “You got that right!”

Bob mentally whined, 'Not them. Not now. Them being here is like throwing a bomb into a fireworks factory.'

All three of them turned Revy, Shenhua, and Sawyer. In their usual clothing, with their weapons drawn. Revy was the center of their small group, with Shenhua and Sawyer to her sides.

The three women started walking towards them. All three of them had out there weapons. Revy had her semi-automatic pistols drawn. Shenhua had her long knives in her hands. And Sawyer was holding the back handles of her chainsaw, with both hands.

Taskmaster asked, “Friends of yours?”

Bob replied, “Not really.”

Bob though, 'And I only have three bullets in the chamber, no cover, and no time to reload. There is no point in having my pistol out.' Bob then holstered his weapon.

The men watched as the women stopped forty feet from them. Revy stood in the middle, with Shenhua to her right side. And Sawyer to her left side.

Revy stated, “Ah, New York, New York. It is so good to be home.” Revy then look over at the corpse, as she commented, “So, you killed the Punisher. I didn't know you had it in you, Bob.”

Bob responded, “That was in self-defense. I think we can all agree that if the Punisher is pointing a gun as someone, he is intent on killing that person.”

Revy conceded, “That is true.”

Herman turned to Bob, as he commented, “You're name is, Bob?”

Bob continued looking at the women, as he stated, “You are one to talk, Herman.”

Herman asked, “How do you know my name?”

Bob said, “I will tell you, later. When our lives are not in mortal jeopardy.”

The women giggled.

Bob stated, “Revy, given how much of a psycho killer Frank is, far more than you ever are. I don't think you would mind me killing him.”

Revy stated, “No. I am not really bothered by that. Actually, we watched you pull that move on. Very professional. Complete with the double-tap.”

Bob replied, “Thank you.”

Herman turned towards the women, as he asked, “Your name is, Revy?”

Revy turned to Shocker, as she answered, “Yes. My name is, Revy. And I live up to my name.”

Herman responded, “It is not that. It is just that you three look familiar.”

Tony took a closer look at the three women, as he stated, “Yes. You three do look familiar. And not in a good way.”

Sawyer commented, with her electrolarynx, “This coming from two men in spandex.”

The women laughed.

Bob said, “Fair warning girls. These two could put up one hell fight with you.”

Tony shrugged.

Herman said, “Thanks.”

Bob turned to Herman and Tony, as he stated, “No problem.” He looked back at the women, as he continued, “And gentlemen, welcome to the strangest day of your lives.”

Tony asked, “How strange?”

Bob answered, “Stranger than a night on the town with Deadpool.”

Tony agreed, “That is strange.”

Herman commented, “Come on. It has got to be coincidence of who those women look like?”

Bob pointed out, “In your line of work.”

Tony suggested, “They could be life model decoys. Would not be the first time.”

Revy stated, “We are not robots.”

Bob backed Revy's statement up, as he commented, “No. They are not.”

Herman commented, with concern in his tone of voice, “That would mean we would have to be insane.”

Shenhua requested, “Just say it already.”

Herman said, “You look like Shenhua, Revy, and Sawyer from the Black Lagoon anime and manga.”

Shenhua smirked, as she said, “That is because we are.”

Revy commented, “Actually, the anime, after the series ended. Way after the series ended.”

Bob turned to Tony and Herman, as he asked, “So, how do you two know about the Black Lagoon series?”

Tony and Herman turned to Bob.

Tony then answered, “Wade's anime collection. One of his better selections, too.”

Bob thought, 'Yea. Great to watch. But, you don't want to meet the cast in real life. I know this fact, first hand. Right now is a good example.'

Tony continued, “I watched the entire series. All the way to through the Roberta's Blood Trail Arc. That Bloodhound is scary. Even by our standards.”

Herman looked over at Tony, as he stated, “You got that right. I found the series on the internet, and I watched it. It has a good english dub. Besides, Black Lagoon is a fictional series. These women cannot be them.”

Bob commented, “Well... You know how Deadpool always talked about how this reality is a comicbook universe. Well, he was right. And from that point, sane went bye-bye. The girls here, and myself, are travelers of the multiverse. And all fictional realities are real.”

Herman commented, “Now, that is a scary thought.”

Tony stated, “Considering if you have to deal with these... ladies. It is no wonder that you could take down the Punisher.”

Revy, Shenhua, and Sawyer smiled at the Taskmaster's compliment.

Bob agreed, “Yes. It is. But, we need to focus on the matter at hand.”

Suddenly, from the other end of the alleyway, from Revy, Shenhua, and Sawyer, they all heard a feminine electronic loudly stated, “Hey. Save some for us.”

The men turned around to see four women in hard suits, in four different colors. Red, white, black, and purple. Standing at the far entrance to the alleyway, opposite to Revy, Shenhua, and Sawyer.

Bob said, “Oh crap. We are worse off than I thought.”

Tony asked, “Are they the Knight Saber?” Taskmaster realized what he just said. He continued, “Yes. Wade showed me the Bubblegum Crisis OVA series, as well.”

Bob answered, “No, Tony. They are more like the Hell Sabers. And when you find out who they are, and why they are here, you are going to realize how much trouble we are all in.”

Bob thought, 'The Hell Sabers can only be here for one reason. Also, even though they are villains, I admired Tony and Herman. And I going to have to save them for the fate worse than death, that is awaiting them.'

The Hell Sabers raised their helmet visors.

Hell Saber Revy asked, “What are you three doing here?”

Revy said, “Hi sis. It is a long story.”

Hell Saber Revy replied, “Hi future self. And I willing to listen.”

Tony asked, “Future self?”

Bob pointed at the Hell Sabers, as he said, “Past.” He pointed at Revy, Shenhua, and Sawyer, in their plain clothing, as he continued, “Present.”

Tony muttered, “I hate time travel.”

Bob said, “That is nothing compared to time travel over multiple multiversal plains of various realities.”

Herman commented, “This is getting weirder by the second.”

Revy said, “I would love to tell you, sis. Actually, I remember a bit of this, from your point of view. But, my memory is kinda hazy. Girls, do you remember what happened.”

Shenhua said, “Just bits and pieces. A lot has happened since then. Though, I do remember small robots.”

Sawyer stated, “Same here. I only recall a little bit. But, I know we had quite a chase.”

Revy continued, “Oh well. Anyway, if I told you, it would likely create a paradox. Short answer is...” Revy pointed her right pistol at Bob, as she stated, “I want him.”

Hell Saber Revy responded, “Fine. We are after the other two.”

Herman said, “This is not good.”

Revy stated, “Then, we are in agreement.”

Tony then noticed the face of the purple Hell Saber member. He asked, with worry evident in his tone of voice, “Is that Roberta with them, in the purple armor? With a cybernetic eye?”

Herman looked more closely at the purple armored woman. He answered, “Oh lord, I think you are right. And I remember at the end of the Blood Trail in the anime are, she lost her right eye, a left arm, a right leg, and two fingers on the right hand. Dear lord, the Bloodhound was already more dangerous than the Terminator. Now, she is the terminator.”

Bob continued to look at the Hell Sabers, as he stated, “Yes. They are from all from Black Lagoon anime timeline. And Roberta is a cyborg. Also, it is worse than you realize. They have all had some sort of super-soldier serum. Like Captain America has.”

“Yes. Someone upgraded the most dangerous bad girls in the multiverse to Captain America level dangerous. And then that person gave them power armor. Roberta being the most dangerous of them all. And that is not even taking into account that Roberta is also is now a cyborg. No offense intended, Revy.”

Revy said, “None taken.”

Hell Saber Revy commented, “It's okay. I am willing to admit when someone is more dangerous than myself.”

Roberta calmly stated, “The man clearly knows who he is dealing with.”

Tony stated, “I will be honest. I would rather face Wolverine, on one of his bad days, than face the Bloodhound.”

Herman replied, “I know. If I met her in a dark alley, I would run away, while screaming.”

Revy smirked, as she stated, “We are in a dark alley. So, start screaming boys.”

Bob, Tony, and Herman turned around to look at Revy, Shenhua, and Sawyer.

As soon as Sawyer saw that they had the men's attention, she held up her chainsaw, as she made her weapon roar to life. While Shenhua positioned her long knives in a threatening manner towards them.

Though, Revy kept her pistols pointed at a downward angle, because she did not want to risk shooing their past counterparts.

After Sawyer roared her chainsaw, the Hell Sabers lowered their helmet visors down, over their faces.

Then, the Hell Sabers, and the trio of women, started walking towards the men, from both sides of the alleyway.

Bob noticed their paced, as he thought, 'Good. They are taking their time. That means, I still may have a way to get us out of this mess.'

Herman turned to Tony and Bob. He quickly asked, “What should we do?”

Tony looked over at Hernan, as he questioned, “Do anything come to mind?”

Herman suggested, “Begging, is the only thing I can think of.”

Bob turned to Herman and Tony. He sternly said, “You do not want to surrender to these women. I will explain later. I am glad that of all the villains in this reality, it is you two that I am with.”

Tony turned to Bob, as he asked, “Why?”

Bob complimented, “Because you both know that revenge is suckers game. And you both know when it is time to run.”

Herman replied, “Good point.”

Bob stated, “I can get us out of this mess, if you do what I say.”

Tony and Herman said, in unison, “Okay.”

Bob ordered, “Grab Frank, turned him around, and follow me inside with him. And follow my lead.”

Tony and Herman ran over to Frank, each grabbed an arm, and dragged the corpse with them. Tony grabbed Frank's left arm. And Herman grabbed Frank's right arm. They turned him around, and started dragging the Punisher's corpse to the door.

Meanwhile, Bob was in front of them, as he headed for the door.

Just then, the door opened, the bouncer walked out and looked him. The bouncer then looked around, and he saw the seven women, four with power armor. He quickly walked back inside, Far into the building. Without shutting the door.

Bob smiled, as he thought, 'Smart man. And it also means I don't have to break down the wall. The door is armored. But, I doubt the walls are armored. Besides, I doubt that door could hold those seven women at bay.

Bob soon followed the bouncer inside, with Tony, Herman, and the corpse right behind him.

Once Bob was inside the room, he stepped to his right side, and out of the way to Tony and Herman. When Tony and Herman entered the room, Frnak's corspe, Bob whispered something to them.

A few seconds later, when they were all clear of the door, Bob loudly shut it, but he did not both to lock it, because he was sure those after them, would have no problems breaking it down.

As the door slammed closed behind the men, everyone in the bar turned to look at them.

Bob turned and saw that he had everyone's attention.

A few seconds later, Tony and Herman threw the corpse, onto an empty nearby table. With the corpse laying on its back.

Herman and Tony then took a few steps back away from the table, to stand by Bob, to Bob's left side.

While allowing everyone in the bar to see who the corpse was.

Bob thought, 'Now, for this to work. I have to place this to the hilt.' He smirked, as he stated, in a competent tone of voice, “Ladies and gentlemen. These fine men here have informed me that I have just killed someone that has been the bane of your existence for sometime. Take a look. That is the Punisher. Mister Frank Castle, himself. Stone cold dead.”

Herman and Tony looked at the other people in the room.

Herman said, “Yes. He killed him.”

Tony commented, “I will vouch for him.”

Bob saw those of the bar getting up and looking at the corpse, then they all turned to him.

Bob dropped his grin, as he requested, in a serious tone of voice, “Now, I just did you all a big favor. And I ask only a small favor in return. Seven ladies are about to walked in through that door, we just came through, looking for me.”

“All I ask is you delay them for as long as possible. I don't care how. Fight them. Offer them drinks. Proposition them, for all I care. Just as long as you delay them. Is that okay with all of you?”

Many of the people there just nodded, or shrugged. One person said, “For killing Castle. We would storm Avenger Tower for you. So, no problem. We will keep those women busy.”

Bob smiled, as he replied, “Good.” He then mentally added, 'I have likely sent these people to their deaths. If they are lucky. And I don't feel that bad about it. That worries me. Though, most of these people are not nice to begin with. So, it could be an argument of scum versus scum. Still, I need to get out of here.'

Bob whispered, to Tony and Herman, “Guys, please show me this back way out of here.”

Herman softly replied, “This way.”

As Tony and Herman led Bob though the bar, and to the back door, Tony asked, “What is the plan?”

Bob answered, “We walk out the back, find a car, and get the hell out of here.”

Herman responded, “Sounds like a good plan.”

Tony stated, “I have a convertible parked outside the back. Everyone knows it is mine, and they know not to mess with it.”

Bob replied, “Good. We will keep the top down. It will give us options. And I drive.”

By then, they were at the back part of the room, and close to the back door, that lead into the storage areas of the building, and the back door.

As they walked through the door, to the back hallway, Tony asked, “Why should you drive? We know the streets, far better than you.”

Bob answered, “Because I know these women after us better than you do. And I am open to taking directions. And neither of you can fight and drive, at the same time.

Tony conceded, “Good point.”

A minute later, Herman opened the back door to the parking lot. The back door was located on the opposite side of the building from the main door.

While the three men walked out into a parking lot, they could already start hearing the screams of pain and violence.

Herman held the door open, for Tony and Bob. Tony was the first to walked by him.

Herman stated, “I honestly feel sorry for our friends back there.”

While Tony made it outside, he said, “Better them, than us.”

Herman replied, “Good point.”

Next, Bob exited to the outside parking lot. After he cleared the door, he stopped, and turned to Herman. He commented, “Thank you. And Herman, if you feel like saying a prayer for your friends, go ahead. But, just keep in mind that you should pray they are not captured. Death would be preferable. You would not want them to be captured alive.”

Tony stopped in his tracked, as he turned to Bob. He demanded, “Why is that?”

Herman shut the door behind them, as he looked at Bob. He asked, “Yea. Why is that?”

Bob stated, “I will tell you when we are on the road, and moving. I don't want you two to lock up in fear, until we are escaping. That is one of the reasons I want to drive. So, you don't crash when you learn what is really going on. Now Tony, which is your car?”

Tony turned pointed out a blue, two door, convertible, with a back seat, that was only twenty feet from them, near the front of the parking lot.

Bob also noticed that the roof and windows of the car were rolled up

As they walked towards the car, Bob turned to Tony, as he requested, “Keys?”

Tony pulled out his keys, on the keyring, from one of the pouches on his utility belt. He then tossed the key to Bob.

Bob caught the keys, with just his right hand. He looked at the keys, and he sat that there was only a door clicker, and one key on the keyring, to unlock the doors, and to start the car's ignition.

Bob thought, 'Now, to move forward with my plan.' He turned to Herman, as he stated, “Herman, I need you to be in back.”

Herman asked, “Why?”

Bob answered, “You have the only weapons that can actually damage that power armor at range. I didn't need to remind you that many of these women like to jump onto moving objects. You are to keep them off our ass. Given your no killing rule, I trust you discretion on avoiding collateral damage and civilian causalities.”

Herman replied, “Thank you. And I can see your point.”

Bob responded, “No problem. Tony, I want you up front with me. You are to be navigator. I have never driven the roads here. You know the roads here. Which roads are not busy, at what times during the day. And you both know the quickest routes out of the city.”

“Also, you likely have sharper eyes than me. I want you to be on look out for any ambushes to the sides, or in front of us. Or third parties that might decide get involved.”

Tony said, “I have no problem with that. Though, you are expecting that some of the heroes of the city will show up.”

Bob replied, “We are dealing with Murphy's Law, here. If they don't show up, I am going to be disappointed.”

Tony commented, “Then, you are likely disappointed. Many of them have already disappeared.

Bob was quiet for a couple of seconds. He thought, 'Damn you, Chang. But, I don't have time to worry about that, right now.'

Bob stated, “Okay. Though, it is always best to be prepared. If they do show up. Be on your best behavior. Remember that some of the most dangerous women in existence will be chasing right behind us. We do not need more problems. Besides, we might be able to get any heroes that show up to fight these women. Which, at the very least, we buy us time to fully escape.”

Tony said, “Good idea.” He thought, 'This man is a good planner. He sees all the angles.'

By then, they made it to Tony's car. Bob used the key clicker to unlock the doors, and he let Herman in the left side, driver's side door, while Tony went around to the passenger door, and got into the front passenger seat.

A few seconds later, Bob got into the driver's seat, and sat down. Bob and Tony then shut the doors.

Bob then inserted the key into the ignition, and he turned on the car. Next, he rolled down the windows, while he let the top down.

As soon as the roof and windows were down. Bob set the car into reverse gear, and he backed out of the parking spot.

A few seconds later, Bob started driving forward, to the exit of the parking lot, and onto the street, he asked, “Guys, which way is the second quickest way out of this city?”

Herman inquired, “Don't you mean quickest?”

Bob replied, “Nope. Second quickest. The girls will guess we will take the quickest way out of town. And Revy grew up in this town... Well, an alternate version of this town. Still, she knows the roads better than I do. So, we are going to take the second quickest way.”

Herman complimented, “Smart thinking. You would make a hell of a villain. I mean so far, you have killed a killer of villains, then turned around and used the villains admiration to stall even worse villains after us, as we escape.”

As they reached the exit to the parking lot to the street, Bob responded, “Thanks. But, I already have a role that I love.”

Tony asked, “Which is?”

Bob looked both ways, for the street to clear. Bob smirked, as he said, “Tourist to the multiverse.”

Tony complimented, “That is a good job.” He thought, 'I think I might someday do that myself.'

Bob replied, “Thank you, Tony. Now, which way?”

Tony answered, “Turn right.”

As soon as his lane cleared, Bob turned to the right, and he drove down the street.

Herman looked over at Bob, as he said, “I envy you.”

Bob kept his eyes on the road, as he responded, “Don't be that way, Herman. After we escape, you guys have the resources and connections to get reality devices of your own, and leave this reality on your own terms. And trust me, it is worth it.”

“All of fiction is real. The places. The sights. The people. The experiences. The food. All worth it. Also, this place it getting a little hot for you. So, you got to leave anyway. And from what I know of what is in the rest of your reality, beyond Earth. You don't want to try to make a life in other parts of this reality.”

Tony admitted, “You have a point there.”

Herman pointed out, “True. Still, don't you mean, if we escape?”

Bob commented, “The first rule of multiverse travel. You have think positive.”

Tony smiled, as he complimented, “I like your attitude, Bob. Though, back to the matter at hand. The second quickest way out of town is a tunnel this way, at the next light.” Tony pointed to their right.

Bob replied, “Thanks.”

A few seconds later, they came to a traffic light. The light was green, and Bob turned, onto another road.

Herman requested, “Now, that we are on the way. Why don't tell us what is going on? And how this situation effects us?”

Bob kept his eyes on the road in front of him, as he stated, “Fair enough. You have both been very helpful, and you both are owed an explanation. I don't know the full story. I was not present during what happened. And I only had second and third hand accounts of what happened.”

“Though, from what I can piece together, it all started when Chang, of the Black Lagoon anime reality, somehow learned he was in a fiction reality, and he gained the ability to travel between realities. He then quickly went off the deep end....”

(_)

Back in the bar, it was swift, and brutal fight, as the Hell Sabers and the Lagoon trio looked around at their spoils.

Fortunately, their victims were unconscious, but alive, and mostly unharmed.

Hell Saber Sawyer stated, with her electrolarynx, “They are not here.”

Sawyer said, “Not surprisingly. Our prey and yours know when it is time to leave.”

Roberta asked, “Do we have time to capture those those here?”

Hell Saber Shenhua stated, “No. Taskmaster and Shocker are our primary targets.”

Roberta looked at the men and women lying on the tables and floor, as she spoke, “Count yourself lucky that we are too busy to deal with you... For now.”

Nearby, Revy commented, “Well, look at this. It is still surprising to see him a second time like this.”

Everyone walked over and looked at the corpse of Frank Castle, AKA the Punisher, laying on the table.

Hell Saber Shenhua stated, “Ah, Frank Castle. Even I know of him. As a trained assassin, a killer, and a borderline psycho, I find him disgusting in his hypocrisy. He believed himself, and only himself, was worthy of being judge, jury, and executioner. And anyone else who tried, outside of government, he would hunt down, and kill, as well.”

Hell Saber Revy stated, “He also never killed a cop. He turned a blind eye to be brutalities and tyrannies of government. In some cases, he even murdered rebels trying to free themselves from such tyranny. And some cops deserve to die.”

Sawyer stated, “Given what happened to you, Revy. I can fully understand why you feel that way. And I support you for it.”

Hell Saber Revy replied, “Thank you, Shenhua.”

Roberta said, “And that is why Frank Castle is on Chang's kill list. I must say, I like Chang's kill list. It is very practical. And a person has to work to get onto it. To even be on the kill list, there must be nothing redeeming about the person. He or she cannot be used a servants. Nor, breeding stock, due to worry their mental defects are inherited. The person cannot be reasoned with. Even if the person is left alone, that person would hunt us. And the person has to be skilled and dangerous enough to be damaging to us. That is what constitutes being on Chang's kill list.”

Hell Saber Shenhua asked, “I wonder why Deadpool is not on the kill list?”

Hell Saber Revy stated, “Because he has a sense of humor. Chang values that. And so do I.”

Hell Saber Shenhua replied, “Point taken.”

Roberta suggested, “Still, given the fact that your future selves' prey killed Mister Castle so easily, perhaps we should take your prey to Chang, as well.”

Revy, Shenhua, and Sawyer stated, in unison, “No.”

Sawyer said, “He knows too much. And we want him alive. If Chang of the past gets him, it could cause a massive paradox.”

Hell Saber Shenhua asked, “What is so special about him?”

Shenhua smiled at Hell Saber Shenhua, as she answered, “As your future self, I can tell you that you will find out. And when you do, it will be worth the wait.”

Hell Saber Shenhua shrugged.

Roberta questioned, “Shall I do the honors?”

Hell Saber Revy said, “Sure. All those on the kill list have to have their bodies complete destroyed. And considering, from the files Chang has on Frank here. Frank has already been hacked up, and literally put together, again. We know better than to leave a body behind.”

Roberta grabbed Frank by his right ankle and quickly dragged him off the table, through the open door, and to the outside alleyway.

As soon as Roberta had laid out Frank's body in the alleyway, Roberta used gadget on the right wrist of the gauntlet armor of her power suit, to spray a liquid onto Frank's corpse. A few seconds later, Roberta finished spraying the liquid.

She then fired a single shot at Frank, which lit the liquid on fire.

Within seconds, the fire burned with such intensity that the Punisher's body was completely ash. And the fire soon burnt itself out.

After making sure the fire was out, and Frank's body was no more, Roberta turned around, and she walked back inside the bar. As she came to a stop, near her friends, she heard Hell Saber Shenhua inquire, “What know? How do we find our prey? They have already escaped.”

Hell Saber Sawyer used the electrolarynx gently set in the collar of her hardsuit, against the front of her throat, so, it would not choke her. She stated, “Simple. I have been in communication with Arcee during this entire time. She is currently tracking them. They are driving in a blue convertible, with its roof and windows down.”

Hell Saber Revy complimented, “Nicely, done Sawyer.”

Hell Saber Sawyer replied, “Thank you.”

Revy stated, “Okay. Here is the plan. My team heads to the back of the building, to find a car. While you four head back to the alleyway, and to Arcee, and the motoslaves.”

“In a few minutes, we will meet you on the street that we saw you four come from. Then, we will follow you four, to our prey. You have the better equipment and resources than us, so you take point.”

Hell Saber Revy asked, “Is that how you remember it?”

Revy responded, “No. But, I figure that is how we should do it, sis.”

Hell Saber Revy replied, “That works for me, sis.”

The Hell Sabers and Lagoon trio then in split up. The Lagoon trio headed to the back of the bar, while the Hell Sabers exited the bar, from the front door.

(_)

Five minutes later, and several city blocks away, Bob was taking the back roads that Tony and Herman pointed out to him. He was staying at the speed limit, obeying traffic lights, and stop signs. This was done so he would not attract the attention of the cops, anymore than having to supervillains, in in their costumes, riding with him would cause.

Now, Bob know the tunnel's name. And he was following the signs to the tunnel they were going to take, to leave the island they were on.

Bob finished his story, “And Chang ended up a babe, as well. Along with her becoming River's bitch. And the Firefly's seaman. Which is just a naval turn for janitor.”

Under their masks, Herman and Tony's jaws here hanging open, while their eyes were wide with fear. From the right corner of his eye, he could see Tony's reaction. And in his rear view mirrors, he could see Herman's reaction.

Though, Bob kept most of his attention on the road in front of him, as he thought, 'At least, they are taking what I have told them, seriously.'

Tony asked, “That is what happened to the disappeared heroes?”

While keeping his eyes on the road in front of him, Bob replied, “Very likely.”

Herman inquired, “And that is what these Hell Sabers intended to do to us? To brainwash, and turn us into women, for breeding stock?”

Bob answered, in a calm tone of voice, “Yes.”

Tony stated, “It is one thing to kill someone. But, that is a fate worse than death. That is fate I would not wish on my worst enemies.”

Bob responded, “I agree.”

Herman commented, “I am not going that way.”

Tony said, “Neither am I.”

Bob stated, “That makes three of us.”

Herman said, “Bob, thank you for getting us out of this mess.”

Bob responded, “No problem”

Tony inquired, “So, what do the other three women want with you?”

Bob answered, “A worse fate than what I told you.”

Tony questioned, “That bad?”

Bob replied, “Yes.”

Herman said, “I don't want to know.”

Tony agreed, “Neither do I.”

Bob thought, 'Good. I really don't want to have to explain to them that I am a latent gender bender, and the girls want to activate my ability, so they can corrupt me into a bad girl like they are... I admit that I might find that to be kinky, if it was not so damn scary for me.'

Tony asked, “Speaking of the multiverse. What other fictional characters have you met? And places have you been too?”

Bob smiled, as he kept his eyes on the road. He answered, “Counting present company. No offense."

Herman replied, “None taken.”

Tony said, “I am find with that. And I admit, even before tonight, a part of me always found Wade inane ravings, about this being a comicbook reality, to have a grain of truth to them.”

Bob stated, “Good. To be honest, I have been all over the place. I have met all sorts of interesting people. After my first adventure into the multiverse, which was by accident. I know, that is so cliche...”

Tony and Herman chuckled a little.

Herman then said, “You got that right.”

Bob said, “I learned that I lived in a fictional reality. Actually, several different series exists in my reality. But, most of them are anime, and manga, which are centered around Japan. While, thankfully, I lived in the U.S.”

Tony said, “Count yourself lucky.”

Bob stated, “Oh, I do. One such series I found that existed as reality in my world is the Ranma Half series. I have seen the series. Both, anime and manga. I found it hilarious. Have you seen that series?”

Hernan commented, “Sure. I have seen the anime, and read the manga. Internet and boredom make for interesting entertainment. Both are wonderful series to look over, at home, while drunk.”

Bob said, “I will keep that in mind. And you, Tony?”

Tony stated, “Wade's taste in anime and manga knows no bounds. I know of that series. Actually, Wade is crazy about that series, and he showed me some episodes. He says it is one of the few series that is wackier than his life is. And I have to agree. Also, that series is one of those series, that I realize that there are people that are more messed up than I could ever possibly be.”

Bob kept his eyes on the road, as he mentioned, “That is true. And it seems that in my reality, Ranma Half was a blend of both the anime and manga.”

Herman said, “That is interesting. So, a series can exist as a fusion?”

Bob commented, “Yes. I have even personally met the Ranma of my reality, post series.”

Tony questioned, “You have met Ranma?”

Bob answered, “Yes. I have. Interesting person, with interesting romantic tastes.”

Tony said, “I didn't see much interesting in those teenage girls he was usually with.”

Bob explained, “It was post series. And he didn't end up with any of them. Ranma ended up with two other gender benders, that are just as hot as Ranma, in both genders.”

Tony cracked a grin, as he said, “That thought would blow Wade's mind.”

Herman commented, “That thought is blowing my mind, right now. So, what is Ranma like, person to person.”

Bob stated, “She seems like an okay person.” He thought, 'Except for coming after me. But, you two don't need to know that.'

Herman corrected, “What do you mean, her? Ranma made it clear that he is a guy.”

Bob mentioned, “Actually, from what I learned, most gender benders. I have met a few. That even those that start out as guys, usually end up living as women.”

Herman shrugged, as he said, “That figures.”

Bob stated, “Perhaps. Though, speaking of what. I do find it interesting that Deadpool considers Ranma to have had a crazier life than his own. And I will admit that is debatable. But, that is saying something, coming for a man, who one time saved the world by kicking Captain America in the groin.”

Tony inquired, “That really happened?”

Bob said, “Yes. Come on. That claim would be to far fetched to lie about. It had to be true.”

Tony conceded, “Point taken.” He thought, 'I guess I owe Wade a drink. Anyone that would kick Captain America down there, deserves to have a drink bought for him.'

Bob inquired, “So, what is Wade's opinion of the Black Lagoon series?”

Tony stated, “Wade loves that series for the T&A, and the action. And the fact that most of the girls on it are crazier than he is. And I have to agree with him on that. Especially after personally meeting those women tonight.”

Herman said, “No arguments there. I guess our lives are over in this reality.”

Tony stated, “I know. And we are getting out of this reality, and running, as soon as possible.”

Bob commented, “I know what you guys are planning. Don't even think about stealing my reality device. It is more than just pushing a button. Besides, you have connections. Like those at AIM. That can get your own reality devices, and out of this reality. Also, I killed the Punisher, and I saved your manhood. Taking that into account, betraying me now would lack the professional that both of you worked so hard to garner over the years.”

Herman let out a laugh. He then stated, “He has got us there.”

Bob suggested, “Anyway, when you leave, you should do so together. You two would make a good team.”

Herman mentioned, “We have already talked about that.”

Bob replied, “Good.”

Tony inquired, “So, how do you see our dynamic?”

Bob stated, “Herman, you're range. Tony, you're melee. Herman, you're a planner and safe cracker, Tony, you're a security expert. Tony, if you could obey Herman's no killing rule, you two could become the greatest stealth bank rob team in the multiverse.”

Tony replied, “I like it.”

Herman said, “We will keep that in mind.”

Bob asked, “So, how far until the tunnel?”

Tony stated, “About a mile and half. Just follow the signs, and it is straight on to the tunnel. The next turn, show be at the next light, where you should be taking a right.”

Luckily, the next traffic light was still green, as Bob followed the signs. And Bob found that the next turn was at the next like. He then turned right onto the next street.

Bob kept his eyes on the road, as he asked, “Are we going to have to pay any tolls at a tollbooth?”

Tony answered, “Nah. This city has been evacuated too many times. With the tollbooths causing problems. And the city government finally decided to have the tolls removed, and raise taxes in other ways.”

Bob commented, “That makes sense.”

Herman inquired, “Bob. It does not take a genius to realize this is a dangerous reality to come too. So, why did you come to this reality, in the first place?”

Bob answered, “I am looking for a cure for a friend's disease.”

Tony complimented, “That is admirable.”

Just then, Herman was looking behind them, as he spotted some people coming towards them, from behind. He stated, “Heads up. They found us.”

Tony turned his head, as Bob used his rear view mirrors to look behind them.

They saw that the Hell Sabers, on their motorcycles. They about a hundred yards behind them. With no vehicles between them. Hell Saber Revy was on a pink motorcycle, while the other three Hell Sabers were on blue and black motorcycles. Behind them were the Lagoon trio in a red, four door car, with Revy driving, Shenhua in the right front passenger seat, and Sawyer sitting in the middle of the backseat.

They were only going a few miles over the speed limit, to Bob going at the speed limit. So, they were slowly gaining on Bob, Tony, and Herman. Though, not by much.

Bob mentally cursed, 'Damn it. Being from New York. Revy knows the roads, and short cuts. And she caught up with me. Or, should I say, they caught up with me. And I know those blue and black motorcycles are likely Typhoon II motoslaves. One of those would be a handful for us. But, that pink motorcycle worries me for some reason.'

'At least we are going at a low speed chase, with the Hell Sabers, and the trio only slowly gaining on us. I guess they know better than to attract to much attention here, as well.'

Tony stated, “Oh great, webhead is heading right for us.”

Bob asked, “Where is he?”

Tony stated, “He is webslinging at five o'clock high.”

Bob continued to look at the road in front of him, as he ordered, “Both of you, wave him down.”

Herman asked, “Why? I hate him.”

Tony commented, “I am not crazy about him, myself.”

Bob said, in a comforting tone of voice, “I know you hate him, Herman. For a lot of good reasons. He not only stops you, he also insults you, and your sense of professionalism.”

Herman muttered, “You got that right.”

Tony realized, as he stated, “You know who he is?”

Bob admitted, “Yes. I do. And when you travel the multiverse, look for the comicbook titled, Spiderman. And you will find out his identity too. Also, after you read the comics, you will be laughing your ass off at him. Because, you will realize that his life is more of a wreck, than either of your lives. He is the type of guy that if he was not laughing and joking around, he would be crying.”

Herman inquired, with curiosity in his tone of voice, “Really?”

Bob responded, “Yes. Though, the quickest way to start a fight with a costumed hero is to call them by their real name. Which is why I am not going to tell you. Because you would be to tempted to call him his real name. And then we will have a fight break out in this car. We do not want that to happen.”

Herman admitted, “You are probably right.”

Tony said, “Yes. I can see that happening.”

Bob stated, “Besides, if you reality travel. You will find out on your own, soon enough. Now, there are three reasons why I want you to wave him down. One, he is coming here, anyway. Two, we don't need to get into a fight with him. And waving him down will decrease the chance of him starting a fight. At the very least, he will want to know why you are waving him down. Three, waving him down would confuse the hell out of him.”

Herman complimented, “You have such a devious mind.”

Bob responded, “Thank you. And be polite. No name calling. And I know he is going to bait us. Just stay be polite, or stay quiet. Given some of the lunatics you deal with every day, that is not a difficult request. Deadpool alone could out insult Spiderman.”

Tony stated, “We will try.”

Herman replied, “No promises.”

Bob reminded them, as he said, “Keep in mind, if we get into a fight with him, you three are all likely going to wind up in a vat, as breeding stock. That thought should keep you polite, or quiet.”

Tony admitted, “Very good points.”

Herman commented, “When you put it like that, I guess I can be polite.”

From the corner of his right eye, he saw Tony begin waving Spiderman down, while with the rear view mirror, he saw Herman also begin waving Spiderman to come down.

Thirty seconds later, Tony stated, “Incoming.”

Bob then saw at Spiderman land on the front of Tony's car hood, right in front of Tony, while he faced them.

Bob did not allow the landing to effect his steering and speed. As he continued driving as he had been.

While he drove, Bob thought, 'I know what this man is capable. I really do not want to upset him. I hope he is really Peter Parker. If not, this could get very interesting, in a lot of bad ways.”

Bob kept his eyes on the road, as he politely greeted Spiderman, “Hello Mister Spiderman. Please, we do not want to fight.”

Spiderman calmly suggested, “Then, how about you guys stop the car.”

Bob thought, 'I have to keep this vague, but honest.' He replied, “We would love, too. But, as you can see behind us, those four armored women in motorcycles, and that car with the three women in it, are after us.”

Tony stated, “Spiderman, you know my reputation. I would not be running unless these were some serious badasses after us.”

Herman said, “Please Spiderman. We are not joking here. We could use your help. You know me. I hate you. And I would not be asking for your help unless we really needed it.”

Spiderman continued standing on the car hood, as he looked at the three men sitting in the vehicle. He said, “You are all serious.”

Tony responded, “Yes. Listen. If you call in the Avengers, we will peacefully surrender to you. I would rather go to the Raft, than suffer what the women intend for us.”

Spiderman explained, “That could be a problem. Most of the Avengers have disappeared. And those that are still here are stretched thin.”

Herman cursed, “Damn it.”

Bob requested, “Spiderman, since none of us want to fight, can we please continue this conversation with you sitting in backseat. I may have to start driving like crazy, in a minute. And Herman is going to have to fire his weapons at the women, if they get to close to us.”

Spiderman looked more closely at Bob, as he inquired, “You interest me. What is your name?”

Bob answered, “Bob.”

Spiderman said, “Well Bob, since you have been polite and civilized, I will comply with your request.”

Herman and Tony had overheard the conversation. Herman moved over to sit behind Bob.

A few seconds before Spiderman jumped into the backseat, behind Tony, to Herman's right side.

Bob continued to look at the road in front of him, as he said, “Thank you, Spiderman.” He thought, 'This man does not sound like Peter. That worries me. But, I have greater worries to deal with, right now.'

Spiderman then said, “Now, let us see if we can see can solve your first problem, by putting some distance between us and them.”

Spiderman turned around. He then swiftly used both his wrist mounted webshooters to create a massive web that stretched between the buildings on both sides of the street. The web when all the way to the ground, and was twenty feet into the air.

Spiderman stated, “That will slow them down”

As the Hell Sabers approached the web, three of them activated their motoslaves into robot mode, with them inside, as they flew over the web.

Hell Saber Revy, jumped over the webbing, just as as Arcee, in one fluid motion, transformed into her robot mode, while she pulled out her flaming swords, slicing through the webbing like it was tissue paper.

Arcee then transformed back into a motorcycle, just in time for Hell Saber Revy to land back on her seat.

As this went on, Hell Saber Shenhua had her motoslave transform back into a motorcycle, right beside Hell Saber Revy and Arcee, to their right side.

Hell Saber Sawyer just kept her motorslave in robot mode, and flew low, and right behind Hell Saber Revy, Arcee, and Hell Saber Shenhua.

Roberta flew off into the distance to their left.

Meanwhile, the Lagoon trio followed right behind their past counterparts, in their red car.

The guys saw all this happening. With Bob seeing this events in his rear view mirrors, while the rest just look behind them, as it happen.

Spiderman commented, “On second thought. I guess my webbing will not be enough.”

Herman shouted, “They have transformers with them?!”

Tony stated, “Actually, those are motoslaves. Exoskeleton armor for BGC hard suits, that can also act independently, as robots.”

Bob kept his eyes in front of him, as he stated, “You are right, Tony. Except for the pink one. That is a transformer. And from the weapons, I know which one. It is Arcee. And that is very bad for us.”

Tony said, “Arcee was not that bad in the original cartoon... Wade's collection is quite large.”

Bob thought, 'And it is clear, Tony, that you have more than just a passing interest in Wade's collection. But, this is not the time, nor place to mention that point.'

Bob commented, “I bet. Still, wrong Arcee. This is IDW comics Arcee. She had her gender bent against her will. Long story short, the experience made her very pissed off, very dangerous, and quite insane.”

Herman inquired, “How pissed off?”

Tony asked, “How dangerous?”

Spiderman questioned, “How insane?”

Bob answered, “When Arcee is really going at it, she is as dangerous as Roberta, when she is pissed, with the cybernetics, super-soldier serum, and power armor.”

Herman said, “Oh hell. We are screwed.”

Bob responded, “Not yet. I have been in tighter spots than this. We just got to keep moving.”

Bob then noticed they were entering a tunnel. He said, “And here comes the tunnel. This is good for us. I do not think anyone is going to do anything down here. None of us want to risk being buried alive. So, keep you eyes open. But, take a breather, and relax for a few moments.”

Spiderman commented, “That is good advise, and assessment, for the situation.”

All four of them let out a breath.

Over the next few minutes they were silent. With nothing really to say to each other.

It was eerie, but none of the men in Tony's car complained.

Though, they all noticed that those chasing them had stopped gaining on them, and instead they maintain a distance of eighty yards from them.

Herman looked back at their pursuers asked, “Do you think they are planning something?”

Bob kept his eyes in front of the road, as he stated, “Probably. And we will friend out soon enough.” He thought, 'They Hell Sabers have radios, and Roberta is somewhere else. So, she will likely be the one to spring the trap. But, I want to get the guys a few minutes to relax, before we are thrown back into the chaos.'

A few seconds later, they reached the exit to the tunnel.

Bob thought, 'Besides, here is the end of the tunnel. Now, I need to figure out what to do next. Before Roberta shows up.'

Just then, Roberta, in her power armor and motorslave, in robot mode, flew, and came to a stop, while hovering about a hundred feet from the tunnels exit, right in front of Tony's car, which was fast approaching her.

All four men saw the woman in front of them.

Bob thought, 'Damn it. Roberta showed up sooner than I expect.'

Herman commented, “Oh hell. It is the Bloodhound. The worst of them.”

Spiderman calmly stated, “They seem to be using a pincer attack. From both in front of us, and behind us.”

Tony said, “This is not good.”

As they approached Roberta, Bob did a quick mental assessment of her weapons and armor weak points. He quickly thought, 'Those two horizon, circular pylons on the top back, above and behind the shoulders, are her major weak points. Along with the cameras.'

Bob kept his left hand on the wheel, as he used his right hand to pull out his revolver from his holster. With his gun in his right hand, Bob ordered, “When we get about fifty feet from them, we attack. Herman aim for the head. Do not miss! Spiderman, web those pylons on its back!”

Herman immediately fired his air compression weapons at the motorslaves head, while Spiderman webs the pylons, and Bob aimed above the windshield, as he fired at the camera on the large rifle.

The robot head exploded, as the flying pylons were webbed, and Bob got a hit, that took out the rifle camera, from the three remaining rounds in his revolver.

As the motorslave fell, Bob thought, 'Good. At the moment, with the head and rifle cameras taking out, Roberta is blind. And with the pylons webbed, her robot cannot fly.'

Bob complimented, “Good job, gentlemen. But, be wary.”

While the motoslave fell, exploded, to allow Roberta freedom of movement.

As Roberta was about to land, Herman tagged her with an air compression blast that knocked her to her back.

Bob veered around her, and continued driving.

Bob requested, “Tony, take the wheel.”

Tony grabbed the wheel.

Bob used both his hands to opened the top-break of the pistol. As it folded out, the chamber automatically discards the spent rounds. He then pulled out a speedloader from a coat pocket, and used it to reload his pistol. Next, he straighten the pistol back in place, with his revolver now load. Finally, he holstered his weapon, and put the empty speedloader back into one of his coat pockets.

As Tony saw Bob take the wheel, with his hands, Tony let go.

From the rear view mirrors of the car, Bob could saw that Roberta had gotten up. With Hell Saber Shenhua slowing down long enough, by Roberta, to allow her to get onto on Hell Saber Shenhua's motoslave, right behind Hell Saber Shenhua. Hell Saber Shenhua speed back up, just in time to prevent the Lagoon trio from paying them, in their car.

Hell Saber Shenhua then gunned the engine of her motoslave, like it was a motorcycle, with her quickly catching up to riding beside Hell Saber Revy and Arcee, to Hell Saber Revy's right side.

Hell Saber Sawyer being in her motoslave, in robot mode, with her flying right behind her team.

And the Lagoon trio followed behind the Hell Sabers, in their red, four door car.

At the moment, in Tony's car, Spiderman stated, “It is unwise to continue this chase. We need to find a place where we can fight.”

Bob continued to look in front of himself, as he stated, “I am willing to listen. But, with all due respect, I have a general idea of what we are facing. Compared to the resources at our disposal, I do not think we can take them in a straight fight.”

Spiderman asked, “How dangerous are they?”

Bob answered, “Individually, they are all Wolverine level dangerous. They are all skilled killers that can, and will, fight dirty. All of the human women have been given a type of super-soldier serum. The one in purple armor has cybernetics. They are from the other reality in the multiverse. They have a general idea of your capabilities. They know about your spider sense, and they will compensate for it.”

“Also, as we have all seen, they have weapons that cut through your webbing like it is nothing. And their power armor is likely strong enough to break your webbing. Along with the power armor coming close to matching your speed, reflexes, and strength.”

“And that is not counting Arcee, nor those in the car.

“Also, as Taskmaster pointed out, two other robots are just basic robots, called motoslaves, can be used an exoskeleton for the power armor the women are. But, each robot can fight by itself. The A.I. of each robot allows it to put of a decent fight. In addition, large rifles those motoslaves came pack a punch.”

“Taking all this into account, even just one of those motoslave robots can give Ironman a workout.”

“And it gets worse. We must be careful. Those in the armor are the past versions of those in plain clothing. If they die, it may destroy the multiverse, in a paradox.”

Bob then overheard Herman say, under his breath, “Dear lord. I did not realize it was that bad.”

Spiderman calmly stated, “I see. Thank you for the information. It is very rare to get such combat information in a calm and orderly manner, during a situation, such as this. I take it you have experience in such situations.”

Bob thought, 'Still no jokes. That has me worried. But, there is nothing I can do about it, right now.' He answered, “Yes.”

Spiderman stated, “Then, I believe I have an alternative. The next exit leads to an abandoned factory, with a large field. I believe we can make a victorious stand there.”

Bob saw the exit, and entered the exit lane, as he said, “Okay. I will trust you. Just lead the way.”

Spiderman replied, “Good.”

They then reached the exit.

Spiderman then started to direct Bob on where to go.

Meanwhile, the Hell Sabers and Lagoon Trio right were behind Tony's car.

Though, unlike in New York City, Bob ignored the traffic lights and stop signs, but he was careful to avoid other vehicles, as he maintained the speed limit.

In the rear view mirror, Bob saw the Hell Sabers and the trio were maintaining their distance.

Bob thought, 'They must realize we are planning to stop somewhere.'

Within a few minutes, Spiderman lead them to an abandoned factory, with a field large field nearby.

They were far enough from the city lights that the moonlight and stars, of the clear night sky, provided plenty of light to see with.

Spiderman pointed at the field, as he ordered, “Park in the field. My plan will require an open space.”

Bob inquired, “How long will your plan take?”

Spiderman cryptically said, “It is already being implemented.”

Tony commented, “No cover at all. If this goes bad, we are screwed.”

Bob said, “Not really. If this goes back, just get near me. I will take care of the rest.”

Spiderman asked, “Teleporter?”

Bob replied, “Something like that.”

Herman said, “It is always nice to have a plan B.”

As Bob drove them into the middle of the field, Tony requested, “Let us put some distance from the car. So, they don't destroy it. I don't feel like walking back town, nor calling for a cab.”

Herman said, while looking at their pursuits, behind them, “Good idea. But, they are literally right behind us.”

Tony stated, “Fifty feet will do. Straight in front of the car.”

Bob said, “That works for me. Keep in mind that the super-soldier serum they have, gives them excellent hearing. So, watch what you say. Also, I am leaving the key in the ignition. And leave the car doors open. Everyone get ready to get out, and meet in the field. I am stopping in three. Two. One.”

Bob immediately stopped the car, put it in park, and turned it off. Spiderman and Herman jumped out of the backseat, and onto the ground, as Bob and Tony quick opened their doors, and got out. With them leaving the car doors open.

The four of them then ran fifty feet in front of the car.

Just as they reached there intended distance, the Hell Sabers reached them.

Hell Saber Revy, rode one Arcee, along with Hell Saber Shenhua riding a motorslave in motorcycle mode, with Roberta sitting right Hell Saber Shenhua, and Sawyer flying in her motorslave in robot mode.

The Hell Sabers encircled the men, in a wide circle of a diameter of thirty feet, with the men in the center.

Bob looked back at Tony's car, and he saw the Lagoon trio parked by the Tony's car. They got out of their, pulled out their weapons, and they calmly walked towards the men.

Bob ordered, “Back to back.”

The men when back to back with each other. They stood, in clockwise order, Herman, Bob, Spiderman, and Tony. With Bob facing the Lagoon trio.

Bob pulled out his pistol in his right hand. Herman had his wrist mounted air compressor cannons held out in front of him. Spiderman had webshooters aimed in front of him. And Tony activated his yellow, solid energy weapon in the form of Captain America’s shield, on his left forearm. With Tony holding the shield in a defensive stance in front of him.

A few seconds later, the Hell Sabers stopped. Hell Saber Sawyer landed, in her motorslave, in front of Taskmaster.

Hell Saber Revy got off of Arcee. Arcee then transformed into her robot mode, as she pulled out her flame sword. They faced Spiderman.

Hell Saber Shenhua and Roberta got off the motoslave they were riding. The motoslave then transformed into robot mode, with no one inside it. Hell Saber Shenhua and Roberta faced the Shocker.

Revy, Shenhua, and Sawyer walked up, and came to a stop. With them facing Bob.

The women surrounded the men by about thirty feet, from all side.

There was silence for several seconds, as both the men and women stayed quiet.

Bob thought, 'We just got to stall them until whatever Spiderman has planned, happens. I hope this works, because Revy could probably shoot me faster than can go for my reality device.'

Hell Saber Revy stated, “I thought you all had better sense than this. Lead us out here, and then run into the middle of a field. That is just an act of stupidity.”

Bob looked behind the women, in the distance, and it looked like the ground was moving.

Bob thought, 'Well, that answers which Spiderman I am with.'

Revy agreed, “Yes. It is a complete lack good planning. This is not like you, Bob.”

Herman leaned over to his left side, as whispered into Tony's ear, “Don't you just love it when they monolog?”

Tony softly replied, “I rarely get the chance to see it from this angle. But, when I do, it is fun. I am so happy I learned a long time ago not to make this mistake.”

Herman quietly responded, “Me too.”

As Bob, and the other men, saw what Spiderman has sent to help, get within forty feet, behind the women, in all direction.

Bob commented, towards the women, “Ladies. To quote. Do you know the difference between a villain and a supervillain?”

The Sawyers shook their heads. The Shenhuas shrugged. Roberta and Arcee did not responded.

Hell Saber Revy asked, “What is it?”

Revy commented, “Just tell us.”

Bob said, “Please, inform them, boys.”

Tony, Herman, and Spiderman smirked under their masks, as they yelled, in unison, “Presentation!”

Bob overheard Spiderman mutter under his breath, “Great movie.”

Bob thought, 'It figures you, of all people, would love that movie, Considering you are living a variation of it, Doc Ock. I know you are possessing Peter's body. But, given the number of heroes that have disappeared, a villain trying to turn hero is better than nothing.

'Considering all the problems this New York City has almost every week, you are actually do a pretty good job of being a hero. You are just brutal hero. I could leave New York City in worse hands. And you seem to care about the job. So, I will leave this job in your hands.'

Bob calmly requested, “Look behind you girls.”

Hell Saber Revy stated, “You expect us to fall for that old trick?”

Revy wretched, as she said, “Crap. He is not joking. I just remember how this ended.”

The women looked behind them. And in the moonlight they saw literally the entire field filled with six inch long spider-bots.

Spiderman firmly stated, “My spider-bots will attack you, if you attack us. The reason I have not attacked any of you, yet, is because I am informed that harming you may harm existence itself. So, I am allowing you this one opportunity to leave this reality, and not come back. Though, if you do still attack, I will destroy you.”

Bob hid his smile, as he thought, 'These bad girls just go school by the best.'

Hell Saber Revy said, with her electronic voice, “You four are not worth it. Girls, we are heading back home.”

A few seconds later, the five Hell Sabers, and their two motoslaves disappeared, as they jumped back to their home base, Chang's Tower, in another reality, and time.

Revy gave Bob a feral grin. She said, “Until next time.” She then holstered her pistols. Next, pulled out her reality device, as Sawyer and Shenhua stepped closer to her.

A few moments later, the three women disappeared, as they jumped to another reality.

With the danger gone, the four men walked a few feet away from each other, and turned to look at one another.

Tony shut down his energy weapon.

Bob turned to Spiderman, as he complimented, “Good job, Spiderman.”

Spiderman looked over at Bob, as he replied, “Thank you. I enjoy it when a plan comes together.”

Bob holstered his pistol. He turned to Tony and Herman, as he asked, “So, what are you two planning to do know?”

Tony and Herman looked at each other for a few seconds. They then looked at Bob.

Tony said, “I think we will take your suggestion.”

Herman stated, “We are going to warn our friends, then we are getting out of this reality.”

Bob reached into his front, left pants pocket, with his left hand. He placed his fingers by the red travel button of the reality device, as he thought up another reality, place, and time. He said, “Well, good luck Herman and Tony. You are going to need it.”

Bob then press the red button, and he instantly disappeared from the view of the other three men, as he jumped to another reality.

Herman commented, “Well, at least he wished us luck before leaving.”

Tony replied, “I don't blame him for leaving so abruptly. He clearly knows us, too well.”

Spiderman stated, “Now, that things have calmed down. You two will tell me what is really going on?”

Tony and Herman turned to look at Spiderman.

Tony stated, “We will make you a deal. We tell you, you let us go, you never see us again.”

Spiderman inquired, “Why should I do that?”

Herman answered, “Because after we call our friends, to warn them, we are then leaving this reality for good. And chances are some of them will leave, as well.”

Spiderman conceded, “Okay. I will listen to what you have to say.”

Herman started, “Well Bob, told us that these women are from another reality. And what they are behind the heroes being kidnapped. To make matters worse, is what they are doing to them...”

A few minutes later, Herman finished his story, “So, as you can see. We have every reason to leave this reality. Because, I am fairly that Chang will send his forces to come back looking for us.”

Spiderman questioned, “I can see why you want to leave. Yet. Are you sure that Bob is not insane?”

Tony answered, “Yes. Everything he has said so far has checked out, due to the actions of those women.”

Herman stated, “If Bob was going to lie, he would have said something more believable.”

Spiderman surmised, “True. Still, from what I understand, you said that Bob stated that Chang was defeated, and her organization was destroyed. Yet, we just faced them. But, this is likely due to time travel by Bob, and the three women group after him, into their past, though they are from another reality, or realities.”

Tony asked, “Meaning?”

Spiderman explained, “It is possible, that given the branching out nature of the multiverse, that realities closer to each other, move along time by the same basic duration of time.”

“Even thought, given the natural laws of energy, matter, and gravity's effects on time, from reality to reality, can vary. With the passing of time in some realities faster, and some being slows than other realities. Though, the difference in time becoming more noticeable, the further out one goes from one's home reality.”

Herman commented, “Like having several clocks and watches that are set to the same time. But, over time, some of the devices will be faster, some will be slower, when compared to each other.”

Spiderman responded, “Exactly. And if we exist long enough on this current timeline, we will reach the moment that Chang was defeat, and we will not have to worry about our forced. Though, time travel would correct this the time discrepancies, from reality to reality. Still, for our situation, these multiversal time discrepancies should not effect us very much, along this timeline.”

Tony looked Herman, as he inquired, “What is he say?”

Herman turned to Tony, as he answered, “If we able to keep from being capture, long enough, they will eventually stop hunting us.

Tony replied, “Oh, good.” He thought, 'Herman is clearly a lot more intelligent than I thought he was. That is nice to know.'

Herman looked around at the spider-bots, as he asked, “So, are you letting us go?”

Spiderman answered, “I am. Just do not let me see you two, again. I already have my hands full. And I now know why. Unfortunately, I cannot keep this world safe, and go rescue my compatriots. But, since I know this Chang will be defeated. I have hope they will return in some form, someday.”

Herman and Tony then noticed that the spider-bots were moving away from them, and further into the back sides of the field. With the spider-bots soon disappearing from sight.

Tony and Herman then turned back to Spiderman.

Tony said, “Thanks.”

Herman inquired, “Spiderman, are you planning to leave this reality?”

Spiderman stated, “No. Someone has to stay and protect this world.”

Herman responded, “Okay. For the first time in my life, I wish you success. Because, I am out of here.”

Spiderman commented, “As long as you are not here. I could care less. And as you pointed out. Since you are calling your friends. It is likely they will leave as well, freeing up my time for more important matters.”

Herman replied, “I am glad we can see eye to eye on this.”

Spiderman inquired, “By the way, who does the blue convertible, we rode in, behind to you?”

Tony answered, “It is mine. I can show you the paperwork in the glove box that proves my ownership of it. I am just happy those women are gone, with my car still in one piece, and in good shape. That is a rarity in this line of work.”

Spiderman replied, “No need. I will take your word for it. Though, I will alert the authorities to the other car.”

Tony said, “That is fine.” He turned to Herman, as he stated, “Herman. Let's get out of here before he changes his mind.”

Herman replied, “Good idea, Tony.”

A few seconds later, they were in Tony's car. Tony was in the driver's seat, as Herman sat at the front passenger’s seat. With the doors close.

With the key in the ignition, Tony had not problems starting the car, He then brought the roof back up, and rolled up the windows. As soon as he was done, doing so, he turned to Herman. He asked, “So where too?”

Herman looked over at Tony, as he said, “My apartment. We will call our friends there. Then, we will start making plans to getting out of this reality, before those women, or any of Chang's other forces show up.”

Tony agreed, “Good plan. And once we go to an alternate Earth, which is parallel to this time, I look forward to finding out some things about this reality. From a comicbook shop.”

Herman responded, “You and me both.”

Tony then looked forward, as he put his car in drive. He then drove his car back towards New York City.

(_)

Half an hour later, Herman and Tony were inside the living room of Herman's apartment.

They were both still in their costumes

Herman was sitting in his couch, while Tony was sitting in a nearby chair, with the cordless phone to his ear.

Tony was talking to Deadpool on the other of the phone line.

Tony stated, into the phone, “Yes Wade. You got to listen to me. We found out who is behind the kidnappings the heroes. And they have started going after villains. Herman and I barely escaped. The people doing it was from another reality, in the multiverse. And they are some serious badasses.”

“I cannot tell you who over the phone. And I cannot tell you over the phone what is being done to those that are kidnapped. But it is horrible. Just take my word for it...”

“Yes. Herman and I are planning to leave this reality after we finished warning all our friends...”

“Yes. I consider you a friend. Don't read to much into it...”

“Yes. I have the connections to leave this reality. And I plan to cash in those favors tonight. I am just saying that you need to look into leaving this reality, as well. I am sure you are on their list...”

“I understand. Thank you for listening to me, Wade. And good luck.”

Tony then hung up the phone, and set it on the coffee table that was set by chair he was sitting in, and the couch Herman was sitting in.

Herman asked, “So, what did he say?”

Tony turned to Herman, as he answered, “Wade is staying. The guy is a lunatic. But, he does not deserve what is in store for him, by those women. So, I felt I had to warn him.”

Herman replied, “I agree that it was best to warn him. The thought of him having children is terrifying.”

Tony responded, “I fully agree.”

Herman inquired, “Do you need to call anyone else?”

Tony answered, “No. Wade was the last person I plan to call.”

Herman responded, “Good. Thanks for letting me called my friends first, to warn them to leave this reality. And with you having finished calling your friends to warn them. Now, the question is. How do we get out of this reality?”

Tony stated, “Bob was correct. I have some connections and favors that I can pull with AIM. If anyone can make us workable reality devices, to travel the multiverse with, it is them.”

Herman replied, “Yes. They are smart enough to do that. I suggest we rest for a few minutes. Then, we can head out, and start the ball rolling on getting out of this reality, while the getting is good.”

Tony stated, “My thoughts, exactly.”

Herman cracked a grin under his mask, as he commented, “I think this is the start of a beautiful friendship.”

Tony returned Herman's smile, as he responded, “I agree.”

The two supervillains then rest for a little while. Soon after, they got up, and made arrangements to leave their home reality. Within a day, they had the means to do so. With them packing some of the belongings they wanted to take with them. Then, they headed out into the multiverse, for adventures, and fun.

(_)

Reality, Star Trek Reality. Date, a few months post series. Place, inside the Habitat, of the inner, ring of Deep Space Nine. Time, local time of day was early evening.

Bob teleported into the bedroom of personal quarters, inside of Deep Space Nine.

Bob had set the lights in his quarter to be dim. So, no matter what place he teleports from, his eyes could easily adjust to his quarters, and he could still see his way around his quarters.

Bob looked around, as he said out loud, “Ah. Home sweet home. Now, to report in to the Commander. But first, I need to remove some items, before I leave this room.”

Bob walked over to his chest of drawers, by his bed. He took off his hat, leather satchel, coat, shades, necklace, boot knife, his ammo, his speedloaders, and his gunbelt, with his holstered revolver. He left these items neatly on the top of the chest of drawers, in his quarters, near his bed.

He left his reality device in his left, front pants pocket.

Bob then opened one of the chest of drawers, and pulled out some small bars of gold pressed latium that he had.

He looked at bars in his hand, and the bars left in the draw. He thought, 'Strange. I thought I have a few more than this. Oh well.'

Bob put the bars into his right side pants pocket. He then closed the drawer he pulled the bars from.

Next, Bob exited his bedroom, walked up through his quarter, to the exit door, that lead to the rest of the station.

Bob thought, 'I am glad they made it so that the lock to my quarters is keyed to my voice. Though, there is a manual release right beside the door, on this side of the door.'

Bob said, “Open.”

The door slid open, and he walked through it.

A second later, the door closed by itself, as Bob made his way to the Promenade.

A few minutes later, after walking through some hallways, he found himself on the second floor of the Promenade.

As Bob continued walking, he thought, 'Not having my weapons makes me feel naked. But, it is part of the deal I have, to be allowed to stay here. And I left my other items behind because. Should I get drunk. I do not want to have to worry about them, should I get drunk.'

'I only kept my reality device, just in case I need to make a quick getaway. With me making a quick stop in my quarters, to gather my things, before I leave for good.'

'Fortunately, Boris' comment was right on the money. And the girls have yet to find me here. Which is good.'

Then, something caught Bob attention.

Bob came to a stop, as he turned to his right side. He looked out through the windows, by him, as he watched the wormhole, located outside of the DS9 station, which lead from the Alpha Quadrant to Gamma Quadrant, opened up and then closed, as a spaceship exited the wormhole.

Bob smiled, as he thought, 'Seeing that in person, never gets old. Another thing about this place that, does not get old, are the universal translators, located through the ship, I can use english, and everyone understands me. While, I understand what they say, as if it was english. And there is no swear censor, like translator microbes, of the Farscape reality, have.'

'Unfortunately, when I visited the Farscape reality, I did not want to get translator microbes, because I was not sure if it was safe. Should I ever end up having my gender bending abilities activated.'

'But, that is a matter for another time. Right now, I need to see the woman in charge.'

Bob then turned, and walked across one of the catwalks, which railings, on itself. He was heading for an elevator lift, which located closer to the center of the Promenade.

After Bob reached the elevator, he took the elevator to the bottom floor of the Promenade. He then started walking towards the security office.

A few minutes later, he entered the front room of the security office.

Bob came to a stop in front of the desk. Across the other side of the desk, from Bob, there was security officer on duty, whom was sitting in a chair. The security officer, currently on duty, was a middle aged Bajoran woman.

Bob patiently waited for the officer to acknowledge his presence.

A few seconds later, the security officer, looked up at Bob, as she kindly greeted him, “Hello Bob.”

Bob thought, 'Months of being polite to the locals, does pay off.' He calmly requested, “Hello. Please inform Commander Nerys that I have returned. If it is okay, I would like to wait here until she can see me.”

The security officer stated, “That will be fine.”

Bob then turned around and walked across the room, and towards some chairs that were set by the wall. As he did so, he overheard the classic sound of the woman using her badge com. She said, “Ops.”

A man on the other end answered, “Yes.”

The security officer stated, “Please inform the Commander that Bob has returned. And he is ready to see her are her earliest convenience.”

The man responded, “Will do.”

Bob turned around, and sat down in the chair. He looked over at the officer, as he kindly said, “Thank you.”

The woman turned to Bob. She smiled at him, as she replied, “No problem.”

Bob then looked at his watch, to time himself.

Bob then waited, until he heard the room's speak beep.

The man said, “Please inform Bob that the commander can now see him now.”

Bob looked at his watch. He had been there for twenty-two minutes. He then turned towards the woman. He quietly nodded towards her. He then got up, and walked out of the security office.

The security officer responded, “He is coming, right now.”

Bob soon made it to the elevator lift that would take him to the operations center of Deep Space Nine.

He waited a minute for it to come down. As few of the crew personnel got off. He then got on. He saw that not one was was getting on. He pushed a button on the interior side of the elevator, and the elevator then started moving towards the operations center.

While Bob waited to reach the operations center, he took a few moments to mentally reflect on the deal he had with Commander Kira Nerys and the Bajoran Government, 'Living in Deep Space Nine has been an interesting experience. I remember the day, several months ago, when I first came to the station. Boris stated this was the only place he knew of that I could hide at. I agree. All the other places like this, are a lot more dangerous. Still, when I teleported onto the Promenade, I tripped several security sensors. Working from the explorer angle did help keep me out of the brig.'

'Though, they did take my revolver, knife, and reality device. Until, their commander, Bajoran Commander Kira Nerys, could sort out this mess. And I complied fulling, in being temporally disarmed.'

'Soon after, I met with Commander Nerys, in a private meeting room with her. We both sat in chairs, across from each other, at a table, in the room.'

'I don't dare call her, Kira. I don't know her that well. And we talked. I knew that the discussion would end in one of two ways. She would make a deal with me. Or, she would likely kill me.'

'And after convincing her to not record out meeting, and for me to only talk to her in the room. She kept a security detail outside, if I caused trouble. I then told her everything I knew. I had too, to convince her.'

'And I mean everything. From Chang, and her actions across the multiverse. To the reasons I was here, at DS9. To the fact that in my home reality, this reality was a work of fiction of the Star Trek franchise.'

'This took a few hours.'

'Of course the first two claims were validated when they scanned my reality device. I think the techs scanning it experienced a slight bit of fear on learning the fact that the technology to travel anywhere in the multiverse was so damn simple. I guess it would be like finding out a way to make nuclear weapons from the things found in a poor man's kitchen cabinet.'

'I did mention to Commander Nerys that I knew about the worries that Iconian gate technology, and how the technology I had was far more versatile. And that I had no problems keeping this technology quiet.'

'I think the only reason they let me keep my reality device was that I told them the truth, that the technology was already out in the multiverse. Also, that my friends, or more likely my enemies, would eventually track me down. And that it was best that I just keep moving. Commander Nerys agreed.'

'Thought, Commander Nerys found it difficult to believe the last claim that she, and this reality, was a work of fiction in my reality, and several other realities. She started believing me, after I mentioned some of the more embarrassing things I know about her past.'

'Her as exact words were low and dangerous. She said, if I ever breath those words again, it would be my last breath. And I believed her.'

'Commander Nerys did comment that Benjamin Sisko had been right. I asked if she was talking about the time that Captain Sisko lived part of a life of a writer in nineteen fifties New York City. From the look on her face, I would say, her reaction was a, yes, to my question.'

'Finally, I made my offer to her. In exchange for sharing technology and knowledge I found across the multiverse with her, and the Bajoran government.'

'I knew that Star Fleet would not go for this, but the Bajoran government might.'

'That she would let me used DS9 as a base of operations. Meaning, she would let me stay here, and use some of the services here. Like the medical services, when I have been injured.'

'My reality device does come in handy. I have literally dropped in to the DS9 infirmary when I needed immediate medical attention. Like after, I fought and defeated a dragon. I did not kill him, because I did not want to upset his family.'

'Fortunately, Commander Nerys saw the advantages of my offer. The technology I already had, and the potential for other technologies and knowledge was too great. She let me go, with my reality device, weapons, and other items. So, I could come back with more proof.'

'I left for the private meeting room, with Commander Nerys still there.'

'I left this reality for about a day, my time. Five minutes, their time. When I returned to that same private meeting room, Commander Nerys was still there. And I came back with bags of proof. I returned with the DVD copies of the end entire Star Trek Franchise. All the series, and movies. Even the ones from the new timeline.'

'I even mentioned to her that this was the tip of the iceberg, with stories on her reality, in other formats, such as books, comic books, and video games. I also, bought back the equipment to watch the videos with.'

'It took about twenty minutes for the techs to get this equipment working. They had to jury rig both the connections to the wall monitor, speakers, and the power source. But, they got it work.'

'Commander Nerys ordered everyone, but myself, out of the room. Then, as she sat in a seat at the table. Next, she requested that I select one of the discs for her to watch.'

'I selected the first disc of the season one to Deep Space Nine. And I show her the two part pilot episode. I then sat down, and we watched that episode.'

'Given the universal translator technology the Federation used, it did not matter if it was Japanese or English dialogue. We would understand it. Though, I now know both those languages, along with Spanish, Russian, and Chinese. Ed and Boris were a great help in teaching me to speak, read, and write those languages.'

'As Commander Nerys watched the episode, her only verbal comment was that she could not believe she looked that young back then.'

'An hour and a half later, after that episode had ended, I asked her how she was handling the situation, she found herself in.'

'She stated that she would be fine.'

'I did not press the matter, further. Though, I did state that I also brought copies of various series, from other realities, about some of the series that existed in my reality, to help prove that I came from a fictional reality, as well.'

'To help show that in some ways, we were both in the same boat, when it came to the world as myth theory... Well, world as myth fact.'

'I offered to show her some of those episodes.'

'She said that she would like see some of those series. I showed her a few episodes of Ranma Half and Birdy Decode. She found those series to be funny.'

'Commander Nerys then got up from her seat. she ordered me to stay in the room. That she was had to contact the Bajoran government about this.'

'She then collected the all of the bags, discs, and equipment, I had brought. And she left the room. I later learned she took them to her personal quarters. By now, she has probably watched everything I gave her.'

'Though, by my digital wrist watch, close to three hours later, she came back to the room. And she said that her homeworld's government was interested in making a deal with me.'

'The agreement we settled on was fair to both parties. In exchange for room, board, food, supplies, clothing, ammo, and repairs on DS9. I would share any technology, or knowledge I ran across, in the multiverse, during my quest to find a cure for Boris, with the Bajoran government, through Commander Nerys.'

'I would be paid for this technology and knowledge with small bars of gold pressed latium. This let me have some spending money, while on the station.'

'I was not allowed to take my weapons outside of the personal quarters assigned to me. And I would teleport to my quarters. I guess the sensors in my quarters were set not to flag and raise the alarm when I come and go from the room, to other parts of the multiverse. Though, I one time accidentally teleport into the hallway by my quarters, and there was no problems. So, I guess the area around my quarters is also set not to raise in problems, with reality traveling.'

'Though, there were exceptions in my teleporting here. If I was injured, I was allowed to immediately teleport to the infirmary. Also, there was a continence plan if I needed to return to the station, during a time I think I was infected with a disease.'

'And finally, every time I came returned to this reality, I had to first check in with Commander Nerys.'

'I had to admit. The terms were generous. And I gladly agreed to them. The deal has worked out well for all of us.'

'In addition, when it comes to computer records, on the station's computers, the records state that I am just a human trader that comes and goes from the gamma quadrant, to sell technology I find to the Bajoran government.'

'That work for me. That works for them. And that keeps Star Fleet from butting into our little deal.'

'And speaking about Star Fleet. What I guessed would happened, came about. And later on, I learned that right after out first meeting, when Commander Nerys talked to her homeworld's government, that they ordered her not to tell Star Fleet about me, and what I showed her.'

'I completely agree with that order. Given, Star Fleet can be real tight asses when it comes to situations like this. For them, it is either their way, or they will destroy everything. Like the Iconian gateway technology.'

'Still, even with the secrecy, there were some Star Fleet officers that learned I was from another reality. Such as Lieutenant Nog. Whom I had found to be a really nice guy. Though fortunately, since I knew better than to give any of these officers any real details. Besides, what they were handling. As far as these officers were concerned, Commander Nerys was handling the situation.

'And everyone knew better than to try to go over Commander Nerys' head.'

'Later, Commander Nerys did inform me that she checked on some things, to make sure Chang was not involved in this reality, and she found that no one was missing. I told her that Chang is not an idiot. She would likely not risk crossing the major players in this reality.'

'Besides Commander Nerys, and the upper levels of the Bajoran government, the only other person that knows the truth about this reality is Quark. Because I got drunk one night at his bar, when were were the only two people left in the bar, and told him the truth. I think he believed me, considering some of the more embarrassing things I told him about himself.'

'The next morning, we came to an understanding. He won't sell me out to Ferengi Alliance, and I will keep my mouth shut about him. And I would tell him about some of my adventures, while I am at his bar having a drink, and getting something to eat. Since then, it has been a good working relationship, between us.'

The elevator lift then reached the operations center. When the elevator came to a stop, Bob exited the lift, and entered the operations center.

As Bob walked towards Commander Nerys' office, he noticed that he was passing by Lieutenant Nog.

Bob came to a stop, a few feet from Nog, as he said, “Hi Nog.”

Nog, whom was much shorter then Bob, turned to look up at Bob. He smiled, as he said, “Hi Bob. Back from your latest adventure?”

Bob answered, “Yes. I am just checking in with the Commander. And it was a really screwy one. I tell you about it later. Or, you can get the story from your uncle.” He thought, 'Nog is one of the few people on the stations I cannot really kept this secret from. He has to many connections on this stations. And I am not talking about wires.'

Nog replied, “I look for to it.”

Bob inquired, “How is the commander, today?”

Nog stated, “She just spent two hour talking to her superiors. What do you think?”

Bob replied, “That bad, huh? Okay. I will just stay on my toes.”

Nog cracked a grin, as he said, “Good luck.”

Bob responded, “Thanks. I think I will need it.”

Bob then turned and walked towards the commander's office, as he thought, 'As cool as it is to be here. I am basically living a Trekkie's wetdream. I also realize this is probably the most dangerous part of the day. Commander Nerys could do a whole lot worse things to me than Revy and the girls. The good news is at her core, she is a nice woman, and a professional at her job. It is just that she is very stressed out from said job, and she cracks the figuratively whip, with her authority, to relieve that stress. Though, she only does so on those that deserve it. Which fortunately, I am not one of said people.'

As Bob walked up to the office entrance, the door to the office slid opened.

Bob then walked inside.

A few seconds later, office door closing behind Bob.

Bob came to a stop, in front of the desk in the room. Bob remained standing, as he looked down at Commander Nerys, whom was sitting in a chair, across from Bob, behind her desk.

Bob chose to remain silent, as he thought, 'So many commanders for this station, over the years, and that desk has remained the same. If that desk could talk, the stories it could tell...'

Kira finally looked up at him. She stated, “Hello Bob.”

Bob said, “Hello Commander Nerys. I reporting in, as per our arrange.”

Kira asked, “Anything to report?”

Bob stated, “Quite a bit. It was interesting. I went to what is called a, superhero reality of an alternate Earth. It is hard to explain for those without the background knowledge. Long story short, on these Earth, a percentage of the population have strange and fantastic abilities. A number of these people's powers are destructive. Some abuse their abilities, others fight these people that abuse their abilities. And that is only the tip of the iceberg.”

“While there, I not only met those three women I told you about, but their past counterparts as well. When they were working for Chang.”

Kira raised an eyebrow, as she inquired,”Really? What happened this time?”

Bob replied, “Double trouble. And then some.”

Bob then spent the next ten minutes telling Kira about his trip to New York City, in the alternate Marvel comics reality.

Right after Bob finished, Kira cracked a grin, as she said, “Bob, you are constantly breaking new ground with temporal mechanics that span multiple realities. I know for a fact that even Star Fleet doesn't have contingency plans for half the stuff you go through. I know. I have looked.”

Bob smiled, as he responded, “Yea. And it keeps life interesting.”

Kira commented, “True. Like being a fictional series.”

Bob said, “Don't feel bad about that. I am from a fictional reality, as well. I will have you know, you could do a lot worse than this reality.”

Kira responded, “I know. But sometimes, I have my doubts about our arrangement.”

Bob defended, “Oh, come on. The blackmail material alone on Quark alone, from the series I gave you, justifies my deal with you.”

Kira let out a laugh. She then said, “True. And that is a card I plan to play on him, when he least expects it. Also, because of you, the Bajoran government now has leverage on just about every major group we know of. The others just don't know it, yet. In addition, we have access to technology that no one else has. Which is why I continue to support this deal. You have shown that you can deliver on your end of the deal.”

Bob inquired, “Have you built you own reality devices, yet? Have you started traveling the multiverse?”

Kira answered, “I am not at liberty to say.”

Bob thought, 'Meaning, yes. I don't blame them for keeping it quite. The rest of the galaxy would throw a fit if they know the Bajorans had that technology.'

Kira stated, “Another reason I continue to allow this deal, is your manners. You are polite to everyone. And you treat me with the respect that someone of my authority deserves. I like that. You are refreshing breath of fresh air to my stressful life. Many people here, and elsewhere, see me as just as caretaker of this position. Just someone filling in after Sisko disappeared. On the other hand, you clearly do not.”

Bob commented, “They don't know what you are capable of. I do. You are not perfect. But, no one is. All you lacked eight years ago was patience. And that was something you learned well, under Captain Sisko.”

Kira responded, “Yes. And at least we now know what happened to him. I thank you for that.”

Bob replied, “You're welcome.”

Kira commented, “I am still trying to figure out how to tell his family, without telling them how I found out.”

Bob admitted, “I honestly don't know how to help you on that. Though, if nothing else, you can say that the truth came to you in a dream.”

Kira agreed, “That might work.”

Bob added, “Well, when you do, you at least know where to forward his mail too.”

Kira giggled. She then replied, “True. If his family does ever need him. I will take runabout into the wormhole, kick open the gates to the celestial temple, and drag Sisko back here.”

Bob said, “Good luck with that. I think you are one of the few people in this reality that could actually pull that off.”

Kira stated, “Thank you. So, how has your search for your cure for your friend gone?”

Bob answered, “I struck out, again.”

Kira replied, “That happens. That is a rare cancer your friend has. My medical chief says that it would be difficult to treat here, even if caught is it early.

Bob sarcastically responded, “Yea. He won the lottery on diseases that suck.”

Kira questioned, “No kidding. So, what are your plans, now?”

Bob answered, “Go to Quarks. Figure out where to go look to next. Which is starting to get a bit limited. All the while, I get drunk, and try to forget who is after me, and what they want to do to me. Then, I go to bed, wake up, get cleaned up, get dressed, have breakfast, and start the adventure all over again.”

Kira said, “I have had those days. Have a pleasant night, Bob.”

Bob responded, “Thank you, Commander Nerys. I hope you do the same.”

Bob then turned, and walked towards the door to the office.

As he approached the exit, the door automatically slid open, and he walked through it.

The door slid closed a few seconds after Bob had passed through the doorway.

Bob continued walked towards the elevator lift, with the intent to get to the Promenade, and then to Quarks.

(_)

A few minutes later, Bob walked into Quarks, and he headed for the bar counter.

Bob saw the bar was half full of customers that evening. Though, he also saw that his usual seat at the bar counter was not yet taken.

As Bob walked to the counter, he thought, 'At the end of the series, Kira had really cracked down on Quark's bar. No holosuite experiences that involved questionable actions. And no gambling. But, she was eventually forced to relent on the alcohol ban, after much of the station's population protested over it.'

'So, to make ends meet, Quark also is now a restaurant that serves food. And he made the situation work for him. The replicator food here is not that bad. Also, the selection is good. Though, I am here for drinks. Not food.'

While Bob continued walking to his usual seat at the bar counter, he passed by Morn.

Bob stopped, as he turned to Morn. He said, “Hi Morn.”

Morn turned and nodded in his direction, before turning back to his drink.

Bob then continued heading for his seat, as he thought, 'Ah, Morn. Such an interesting person. He did not say word on screen, in the DS9 series. But, I did get a chance to talk to him. I had a very interesting conversation with him. And I found out why the ladies like him. It is his voice. Ladies dig his voice. He has a very masculine, yet romantic voice.'

'And Morn is one hell of a smooth talker. No wonder he is a ladies man in this reality. And a little while back, on karaoke night, at Quarks, I found out that Morn is a very skilled operatic singer. He is likely the best male opera singer I have ever seen in person... Now, to get myself a drink.'

When Bob made it to his usual seat at the bar counter, he sat down.

A few seconds later, from behind the bar counter, Quark walked up to stand across the counter from Bob. He asked, “What can I get for you, Bob?”

Bob stated, “Wild Turkey.”

Quark pulled out the bottle of the whiskey, and a glass. He poured the glass, as he said, “I see you are starting early, tonight.”

Bob pulled out from his pocket, and then set a small bar of gold pressed latium onto the counter. He then said, “Yes. And please leave the bottle.”

Quark set the bottle down. He then picked up the bar of gold pressed latium, as he replied, “No problem.” He set the bar of gold pressed latium into his right pants pocket, as he thought, 'At least, you are a nice drunk. Still, I do need to talk to you.'

Meanwhile, as Bob took a sip of whiskey from his glass, he thought, 'I have been half way across the multiverse, and still the best whiskey I can find is good, old Kentucky bourbon.'

After Bob set his glass down on the car counter, Quark said, “The only reasons I let you drink here is that you are a polite drunk that knows when to leave. And your stories get wilder, the more you drink.”

Bob cracked a grin, as he stated, “You still don't fully believe me, Quark?” He feigned being emotionally hurt, as he sarcastically continued, “That hurts me feelings.”

Quark leaned over the counter towards Bob. He whispered, “Between you and me. I have seen a lot. But, outside of changelings, I don't believe that humans, with curses, or genetics, could switch genders, back and forth with water, or a sneeze, in an instant. It a little too much. And the claim you made that all this, from the Alpha quadrant to the Gamma quadrant, is a work of human fiction. Is just too much to swallow. My pride in my species, alone, demands I deny it.”

Quark then stood back up straight.

Bob replied, “I understand where you are coming from. I hope your sanity doesn't break when you realize I am telling the truth.”

Quark responded, “I hope not. I have too many things going for me. Sure, my bar has been castrated by her royal highness. But, my brother, Rom, is Grand Nagus, and I am trying to talk him into throwing some business my way.”

Bob inquired, “How is that going?”

Quark admitted, in a sad tone of voice, “Not good. His wife, Leeta, and the new Congress of Economic Advisors, are giving me trouble. Leeta is demanding I reform my ways, and act more... Honest... And less greedy... If I had known that she would turn out to become my brother's wife. The wife of a Grand Nagus that listens to women, especially his wife. I would have paid her more when she worked for me as a dabo girl.”

Bob shook his head, as he responded, “Hey, man. I feel for you. I am American. Our motto is. Greed is good, and apparently legal.”

Quark laughed.

A few seconds later, as Quark calmed down, he said, “Bob, you are not like any of the other humans I know.”

Bob calmly explained, “That is because most Federation humans are raised with no wants. No worries. Most of them don't even had a clue of what a bad day is, until they reach adulthood.”

Quark nodded, as he stated, “True. Very true. But, you do.”

Bob responded, “Yes. I come from a time a place where there are still hardships. It is not horrible. But, neither is it paradise.”

Quark commented, “I see your point, Bob. And it seems your experiences as a child have given your personality a darker edge, when compared to these Federation humans.”

Bob calmly pointed out, “Quark, take my word for it. You don't even know what you are talking about. I am just a nice guy. Yet. I have had the unfortunate displeasure of having personally met sadistic, and very violent sociopaths, that would send hardened, seasoned klingon warriors running away, while screaming in terror. Human women can be especially terrifying and dangerous.”

Quark wondered out loud, “I don't know how human women could be that scary and dangerous. I know a few Klingon women that could fit that bill. But, no human women.”

Bob strongly replied, “Pray you never find out.”

Quark commented, “I have no desire to find out. Speaking of klingon warriors. Do you remember that time you had that drinking contest with that klingon warrior?”

Bob answered, “Yea. And I almost beat him. From what I understand, he collapsed ten seconds after me.”

Quark said, “True. And the next morning you two met, after you both sobered up.”

Bob stated, “Yes. He said he considered an honorable battle, and that I was a worthy opponent. I considered that a good compliment.”

Quark commented, “As you should. I have been in a similar situation before.”

Bob thought, 'Yea. You are likely the only person in this reality that showed courage, earned respect from the klingon government, and beat a klingon, by choosing not to fight.'

Bob replied, “He even offered me a rematch. The reason I turned down was that Klingon blood wine gave me wicked hangover.”

Quark pointed out, “Yes. It does for most people. And that is why most non-Klingons don't drink it often. Still, even though I don't believe everything you claim to have seen, I do believe that you have lead a crazy life.”

Bob chuckled. He then said, “You are one to talk. Would you like to know how crazy even this reality is?”

Quark replied, “Sure. You always have some interesting tales to tell.”

Bob explained, “Let us talk about, the book. You know the general human term? The book someone wrote, when it comes to a set of loose rules and guidelines?”

Quark answered, “Yes.”

Bob responded, “Good. Well, here is the insanity. Archer wrote the book, that Kirk rewrote, that Picard amended, that Sisko followed, that Janeway broke. And Janeway ends up, or will end up, an admiral. Now, that is crazy.”

Quark lightly chuckled, as he agreed, “Yes. It is. I got other customers to serve. But, I will be back later to talk.”

Bob smiled, as he replied, “I look forward to it.”

As Quark went to serve his other customers, Bob picked up his glass and took a sip, as he overheard some people behind him.

Bob set his glass down on the counter. He then turned around, and he saw two people sitting at a near by table, whom looked to have just finished their dinner.

He saw that they were older male teenagers, in their late teens, in age. Not old enough to be men, but not boys, either.

They had tanned skin, but their facial features seemed to lend to a mixed racial parentage. Their black hair was cut short, above their necklines.

They had roughly the same large physical body builds, and looked to have some decent muscle tone.

They did not look identical, but they are very close to one of another.

Both wore tennis shoes, blue jeans, and a white t-shirt. Though, one wore a short white coat, that looked like something a scientist would wear. And the other wore what looked to be a high school varsity jacket.

Bob thought, 'They are probably brothers. Something about them reminds me of myself. They seem to be familiar, but I can not place their faces. I don't want to be rude. It would best if I turn back around, and faced the bar, instead of stare at them.'

After Bob turned to face the bar and get a drink from Quark, he mentally admitted to himself, 'Besides. After today. I am just to tired to care about them. All I want to do is get drunk, and then sleep off another strange, bad day that I have had... I miss Ed and Boris... I miss my family... Mom and Dad... My siblings... Hell, I miss Rico.'

Bob didn't pay attention as the two teenagers continued their conversation.

The one with the varsity jacket said, “Well brother. We are so screwed. I mean, we are in deep as possible, and going down.”

The one with the lab coat replied, “You're right. Our parents should have told us years ago what was going on. But, they wanted us to live a normal lives. Yet, anyone with a IQ of above room temperature could have guessed that wasn't going to happen.”

The one with the variety jacket responded, “I completely agree. Still, I am annoyed at you for screwing up my life. I was heading to college, on a sports scholarship. I was dating the hottest cheerleader in school. Even the damn quarterback envied me. And she was in the bag to be prom queen. I could have taken the prom queen to prom.”

“Do you know how lucky someone would have to be to have that happen to them? That is the type of social achievement that is so great that a century from now, on my death bed, and I mention it to people, and they would still be jealous of me. But, no. You just had to convince me to help you complete that damn formula, back home. Now, our lives are ruined, half of existence are hounding our asses, and we have no real answers so far.”

The brother with the lab coat pointed out, “I know. I know. I had a science scholarship lined up, as well. Besides, you were the one that opened the door to those three strange girls at home.”

The brother in the varsity jacket replied, “How was I suppose to know?”

The one in the lab coat responded, “My point exactly.”

The varsity snapped at his brother, “Teacher's pet.”

The brother with the lab coat insultingly replied, “Jock.”

The jock accused, “Nerd. Besides, you owe me more than I owe you. I always got you a hot date when I went out with my girlfriend.”

The nerd conceded, “Yes, you did. And I am still thankful for you doing that.”

The jock responded, “That is nice to hear. But, on top of what you did, you made things worse by telling your physics teacher.”

The nerd replied, “I admit it. She had me fooled... She had us all fooled.”

The jock flatly said, “Yea. Now, we have nearly every type of bounty hunter imaginable after us. And we also have to deal with our crazy trio of crazy distant cousins, and those five teenage women. God, I never knew someone could be that violent. Let alone a woman. And we have had to deal with five such women.”

“That it would probably not have been so bad if we had previously not literally dropped on top of them, from out of nowhere. While they were having their bikini party. With their dozens of equally violent female friends. If those front doors to that mansion we rushed into, with those nutcases chasing right behind us, had not been unlocked, and steel reinforced, with us locking them out, behind us. And the walls were steel reinforced concrete. And the windows being bullet proof. All giving us just enough time to get our device to jump us to another reality, we would be dead, or worse.”

The nerd admitted, “Very true.”

The jock complimented, “You know, until that day, I didn't know you could run as fast as me.”

The nerd shook his head in disbelief, as he replied, “Neither did I.”

The jock stated, “I think we broke the men's speed record for the fifty yard dash on that one. Though, the worst part is I don't know how we ended there in the first place. I mean, when you have a planet destroying energy cannon pointed out at you, you are not very picky about where you want to go. Our luck is not that bad? Is it? All I wanted to do was see our mom and dad. What went wrong?”

The nerd explained, “Well, in the ensuing chaos, I thought I saw mom and our... aunt?”

The jock sighed, “Remember, that was not our aunt.”

The nerd commented, “Oh god, that group picture, of women in bikinis, in mom and dad's bedroom. That was them.”

The jock grumbled, “Business trip, my ass.”

There was an eerie silence between them for the next a few seconds.

The jock commented, “I can see how this type of life could drive a man to drink.”

Nearby, at the bar counter, a fair skinned man with black hair, and a full, bushy beard, had just finished his first bottle of alcohol, and the bartender has just gotten him another bottle of alcohol to work on.

The nerd agreed, “I am with you there, man.”

The brothers said, in unison, “Crazy chicks.”

The nerd commented, “Still, that nice, teenage, dark blue haired girl from Tokyo wasn't too bad. She has good taste in science fiction.”

The jock said, “Dude, after everything that has happened, I will bet you five dollars that girl is weird in some way.”

The nerd replied, “I will take that bet. And look on the bright side. We are still ourselves, and we got each other.”

The jock admitted, “Yea. I hear you, bro. At least we got that going for us.”

The nerd stated, “Anyway, after thinking about it, I think got lead on the man that used to fight our physics teacher on a regular basis.”

The jock asked, “Where did you get the lead from?”

The nerd answered, “From that TV series that girl from Tokyo showed us. The spaceships on it, and the ones we personally saw, look identical.”

The jock agreed, “Okay. We got nothing else to go on. It is work a shot.”

The nerd said, “I am glad you agree. Though, I think this guy is kinda crazy.”

The jock pointed out, “What part of this situation we find ourselves in, isn't crazy?”

The nerd complimented, “Good point.”

The jock got up from his seat, as he inquired, “So, what are we waiting for?”

The nerd got up as well, while he answered, “Nothing, but to pay for the dinner.”

As they walked by the bar counter, they dropped the two bars they had found, to pay for their drinks and meal.

They then the passed by the bearded, black haired, fair skinned man, whom was on his way to being drunk.

As they were about to exit, the immediately realized who the man was, as they turned around and took a good hard look at him.

The jock whispered, “Oh my god. That is him. He is so young. So manly. And I love his beard.”

The jock was about to walk over to the man, but the nerd stopped him, by placing his hand on his shoulder.

The nerd quietly stated, “You know the rules. Or, do you want to screw the space time continuum even worse than it already is for us?”

The jock softly admitted, “You're right. Still, I say you are the one in dealing with with that one question we really need an answer to.”

The nerd let go of his brother. Both teenagers then turned around and started walking towards the door.

The nerd responded, “Nah. I got the brains. You got the muscles. It doesn't take a genius to figure which is which on that question.”

The jock suggested, “Keep dreaming. And let's just find a way to fix this mess, so we can get back to blue skies and red soil.”

The nerd agreed, “Amen to that brother.”

Both brothers laughed, as they left Quarks.

To be continued.

(_)

Author's Notes:

Now, you know who Tony and Herman are, from book three, chapter four. Though, for Tony and Herman, that is a little bit in their future.

Recursive writing, and all that.

One point about comic book villain team ups, that I have never understood, is there are rarely in team ups of pragmatic villains. The types that are just in the money.

Such as Tony/Taskmaster, and Herman/Shocker. Both of them are in it for the money. They both know when to run, instead of fight a losing battle. Both try very hard not to not to allow themselves to get sucked into the revenge angle. Both try to be professional in their jobs. And both try not to be jerks.

Except for Herman preferring not to kill people. Both of them work on the same level And Tony is practical enough, to follow that rule, if it makes him money.

I think if those two one night, just has the chance

I really like how beginning to the end of the Marvel section of the chapter turned out.

Bob just walks in, and walks out. He then kills the Punisher in self-defense. Which is poetic justice towards the Punisher.

And Bob does not even angst over it, because he knew it was in self-defense. Though, Bob does not like killing. This is a way to show, that is more than willing to do so, for the proper reasons.

The bar scene, to the alleyway scene also worked a few levels. In the bar, it was from the villains point of view. For Bob knocks the bouncer into the bar. Bob then walks into the bad guy bar, he holds his right hand by his holstered pistol, while he warns, “Don't.”

Next, when after he exits the bar, with him shooting and killing the Punisher, it shows that Bob was not bluffing. And he has the skills to back up his warning.

Also, this scene with Bob killing Punish showed how quick a draw Bob was, and how accurate Bob was. He saw only a glint of metal for a split seconds. He moved out of the way, while drawing a firing a pistol. Taking down a person from a roof.

This is why I made Bob's peacemaker, and Akira's peacemaker modified revolver. The original Colt peacemaker was 'single action', Where the hammer has to be manual pulled back at every shot. Where as double action revolvers don't have to have the hammer manually pulled back at every shot. The trigger will pulled back and release the hammer.

This allows Bob and Akira easier use of their revolvers.

And by Bob killing the Punisher, it make him instant friends with all the villains in the bar. So, of course the would gladly delay the women for him. They didn't realize that the women were more dangerous than the Punisher.

Then, the bar scene, with the Hell Sabers destroying Frank's body.

To the chase scene, with Bob explaining to Tony and Herman, on what is going on. And their reactions.

Then, with the Superior Spiderman showing up. Leading to the rest of the chase scene, and finally the resolution of the chase, in the field.

On using the Doc Ock/Superior Spiderman, instead of regular Peter Parker/Spiderman.

This is an alternate reality of the Marvel Comics reality, and I wanted to throw in a surprise, or two. To remind both Bob and the readers, that not everything they know is correct.

Plus, that Mastermind film injoke scene made it worth doing so.

Though, I used Superior Spiderman's original modified spidersuit, with the clawed fingers and toes. No extra mechanical limbs.

And Superior Spiderman is smart enough to come up with a theory, that I am using. That the multiverse, or that section of it, all travel a long a similar course in time. That is why there is only a section of the multiverse that Chang's forces are using the kidnap people, instead of all times and places.

Though, that rule for the multiverse is not set in stone, and they will go to other times and places, in various realities, to kidnap people. But, most times, it is the same time, where they are kidnapping people, for their vat processing.

Also, I gave hints at the last part with Tony and Herman, on how they are getting out of their home reality. And how they were going to warn their friends. Such as Wade, as in Wade 'Deadpool' Wilson.

And in book two, chapter nine, it is mentioned that Tony did warn Wade.

On the matter of Chang's kill list. It makes sense that Chang would have a kill list. But, for someone to get on, they would have to be evil in a way, that make them both useless to get anything from, and too dangerous to allow to roam free.

Even someone who, though extremely dangerous, and is useless to Chang, would not get on Chang's kill list, if they were open negotiation. Or, if they are will to take a warning seriously, from Chang's forces.

As such, Chang's kill list is a very, very short list.

And Frank Punisher Castle is an evil person. He just happens to go after people that those in power would like to see dead. So, he is allowed to roam free.

Revy made a point about this. Revy was wrongly jailed, and raped by a New York Cop. And the Punisher never kills cops, no matter what evil actions cops commit.

Revy took great delight in having Roberta destroy the Punisher's body, for Frank Castle's hypocrisy.

In addition, Chang realized that a rabid dog like the Punisher will eventually turned on everyone.

Chang realizes that the Punisher would kill his target even it if meant ending the world.

That is why the Punisher is on Chang's kill list. And those in Chang's kill let, are not only checked to make sure they are dead. Their bodies are also destroyed.

On the Deep Space Nine scenes, it gave me a chance to show where Bob goes on his down time, and what he did on his downtime.

Also, I had a chance to explain the events surround Bob first coming to Deep Space Nine, and the deal he made with Commander Kira Nerys.

I found the arrangement I created between Bob, Commander Kira Nerys, and the Bajoran government.

Kira knows what is going on. With her and her government realizing gold mine that Bob could provide.

With all Bob really asking for is aid shelter. It is a good deal, all around.

And Bob pays Kira the respect that your authority and position is due. That helps him a lot in his dealings with Kira.

Also, the scenes with Quark and Nog were fun to write, as well.

On Morn. It would be ironic if the reason Morn regularly gets women, is that he has a wonderful voice. Considering, he never talked in the Deep Space Nine series.

Yes. Bob has been hitting the drinks a little hard. But, that kind of life can cause a made to start to drink. But, Bob only drinks when he gets back from his adventures. And he sleeps off the booze before he goes back out, the next morning.

On the cameo of the two brothers, that you have been seeing in this anthology of insanity. We will eventually get to the back-story on them, and their own journey will then made sense.

Until next time. Have fun.