Chapter 4

The punks chuckled at my remark. They started falling asleep so I had them unchain me.

They were reluctant but did so anyways. Pretty soon they fell asleep.

I slowly got up after a few hours. But I made sure to have Brat in my arms when I did so. Why? Because as soon as I moved they were all awake.

“Hi…” I say, still shocked at seeing them suddenly wake up.

“What are you doing?” Brat asks as she notices she’s in my arms.

“That chair is uncomfortable. I was going to go to a free bedroom or the couch. But I didn’t really think going by myself would be the smartest move after what happened.” I answered.

“That’s fair.” Brute says. Brat just moves to get comfortable in my arms.

“You’re not going to ask to be put down?” I ask Brat

“No.” She answers immediately.

“You’re going to carry us too just so you know.” Berserk says.

I look over and see her and Brute going back to sleep. I roll my eyes but carry Brat to a bedroom I found. I do the same for the other two.

After I moved them I went ahead and said I’m going to get some water. They all responded in their own sleepy way.

I did go to the kitchen to get some water. But instead of heading back to that room I went over to the computer.

They didn’t really hide what they did from me. So I just made sure to do what I knew would get me home.

Well more specifically into the professor’s lab. After that I set the computer to fry itself. I went through the portal and a couple of minutes later the portal blew up.

Which got the Professor’s and Ken’s attention.

They were even more confused to see me come out of the computer but hearing the explosion brought them back to reality.

“Buttercup!? What-?! How-?! Explain!” The professor struggled to get out.

“Get the others. Including family.” I say simply as I sit on the couch.

They don’t ask me anything else and just went to get everyone. My parents were confused to see me there already.

I didn’t say anything till everyone was present.

“So the Buttercup you thought was at home and that you saw after I was gone for a while wasn’t me.” I start off.

“What do you mean it wasn’t you!? We know our own daughter!” My dad exclaims.

“Shut it and let me finish.” I say w/ out raising my voice.

Which is how my family, the girls, the professor, Ken, Poochi, the mayor, and Ms Bellum knew not to interrupt me.

The others just went w/ along w/ what the group did.

“So I was kidnapped by basically evil us called the Powerpunk girls. Their names are Berserk, Brute, and Brat. Brute looks like me, Brat looks like Bubbles and Berserk looks like Blossom.” I explain.

“Like similar or..?” Ken asks trailing off.

“Seriously if we went emo you wouldn’t be able to tell us apart from them.” I state.

They all looked shocked at this comment.

“They wanted to take over New Townsville. But after like a week they gave up on that plan. Don’t know why. But they were going to keep me there but I managed to escape.” I finished.

“So.. what about our evil names?” The Professor asks.

“Uh…” I became visibly tense. They all noticed this.

“Just tell us.” The Mayor says.

“The Mayor is the Dictator, Ms Bellum is Ms Blood, The professor is the Oppressor, Ken is Killer, Poochi is Poacher. I didn’t meet their families.” I answered.

“Those names aren’t too bad. Why did you tense?” Ken asks.

“… So.. I believe our time moves the same so yesterday Brute came back. Well that’s when they said they weren’t going to let me come back. So I got up and went exploring. I went to a corner I hadn’t explored…” I say as I look away.

“What happened?” Ms Bellum asks.

“I hadn’t met their version of you guys till then. And they were beaten pretty badly and were in cages. The Oppressor told me the punks betrayed them. But before really anything else could happen…” I say trailing off again.

“Buttercup it’s ok. Just tell us.” Bubbles says.

“They punks for once actually glared at me but they glared at their version of them like they were the most disgusting things on the planet.” I inform.

“Why’s that?” The Mayor asks concerned.

“They told me after they spent hours torturing those guys. But before they tortured them, they locked me in a room that looked like it could hold multiple animals w/ cages and more all over it. The room was like on the other side of the lab there. But I could hear the screams.” I say remembering it.

“Really?!” Blossom’s dad asks.

“And the screams just kept getting louder. I thought I was in for it worse but they only cuddled me. And thinking about it they did tell me in front of those guys that they trusted them but they thought they were too powerful and the cells they were in were meant for them.” I correct myself.

“Oh wow…” Bubbles says.

“Well that about sums everything up. Also I’m still mad at everyone. The girls for not listening to me and what they said. You guys for telling my family w/ out my permission or knowledge and my family for siding w/ them w/ out knowing the full story.” I say before leaving.

Yes I left just like that. No I don’t regret or feel bad about it. I got my phone and made sure my bank account was still how it should be.

After that I got a hotel to stay at. No I didn’t say I was staying at a hotel. Nor do I plan on telling them.

I went straight to sleep after checking into my room. But I woke up to the shock of my life.

Apparently the news somehow got a hold of our conversation. Exposing the Powerpuff girl’s identities and everything. I groaned.

Especially knowing I have school tomorrow. I decided to drop it. Which was a mistake. When I got to school I was immediately swarmed.

The person in front of the swarm was of course the green Rowdyruff boy. I rolled my eyes and ignored him.

I got to my first hour and Ms. Keen actually wanted to make sure I was ok to be at school. But after that the last person I wanted to see burst through the door.

“Buttercup!” The person says.

“Hi… Miko….” I say begrudgingly.

“My parents agreed to pay for you to stay w/ me. So come on we’re leaving.” She says.

“Not happening.” I say blankly.

“It’s not up for debate.” She says and tries to grab me.

“Nuh uh. Not happening.” I say moving away.

“Buttercup I don’t have a lot of patience for this right now. You leave my house and immediately get kidnapped? And now that you’re back everyone knows you’re a Powerpuff girl and that some psychos are after you.” She says.

Like geeze, save something for someone else to point out.

“True. But if I got kidnapped after leaving your house. Why would I go w/ you? That seems to be making it easier for them to find and take me.” I state.

Her eyes widened as if she hadn’t thought of that.

“I guess that’s fair. But I still rather you be w/ me.” She says.

“No.” I answered.

“Either you come w/ me or I stay w/ you.” She says crossing her arms.

“Ms. Keen she’s not actually able to stay here is she?” I asked.

“No. Not unless she has special permission for a specific educational reason.” Ms. Keen says.

“Which I do. I’m studying journalism. So I can follow Buttercup to all her classes and ask her all kinds of questions.” Miko says smugly.

“… Ms. Keen now that I’m thinking about it I really should take a day to rest and recover.” I say feigning being weak.

“Great. I’ll just take you-“

“Miko no! I wouldn’t want to get in the way of your studying. Ms. Keen please make sure she has a student she can shadow. I’ll just go home and rest now.” I add interrupting Miko.

“Clever girl.” Miko says.

I quickly leave the school. There’s no way I was letting her figure out where I’m staying at. I don’t have the money to move around.

But now after that day people are always double checking it’s actually me. And making sure I’m ok.

One day I had just escaped a crowd when I heard an argument. I peeked and saw the girls arguing with the RowdyRuff boys.

“Why didn’t you tell us?!” Brick yelled.

“Because it was none of your business!” Blossoms says.

“We dated you!” Boomer says.

“Yeah but that didn’t matter when you treated us like shit when we broke up!” Bubbles says.

“You lied to me! You knew we felt bad for how your and Buttercup’s relationship derailed and you didn’t think to tell me it was because she knew we were evil and didn’t trust us!” Butch says.

“But you didn’t really go around announcing you were the once evil RowdyRuff boys!” Blossom argues.

“Because we didn’t want people to know!” Brick says.

“And we didn’t want people to know we were the Powerpuff girls!” Bubbles argues.

“Except your families?” Boomer argues. I groaned.

“Enough!” I state. All of them turned to look at me.

“Buttercup!? How long have you been listening?” Butch asks.

Yes I knew their names. I just didn’t really want to use them but it was easier to use their names than saying red, blue, green RowdyRuff boy.

“Long enough. Now for your information they only told our families after you guys broke up w/ them because they wanted to back me into a corner and get me to forgive them.” I say.

“What?! That’s not cool!” Brick says glaring at the girls.

“And neither was how you treated the girls after you broke up! You’re mad because they didn’t think you were special enough to know their other identities. But you broke apart a team. I have a right to be mad at them you boys don’t!” I continue.

“But we dated them! We were trying to change and we had no idea why you hated us and they didn’t think to tell us!” Boomer argues.

“If they want to reveal themselves that’s up to them but why would it be ok to reveal who I was?” I ask.

He just stood there silently not being able to argue.

“But they lied to us! Don’t we get to be mad because of that?!” Butch asks.

“Like you haven’t lied. Besides if you told a secret to someone would you want them to tell it to someone else if it meant they didn’t have to lie?” I ask.

“No, but that’s different!” Brick argues.

“No, because it was my secret identity as a superhero. My secret that they knew.” I state.

“Well when you put it like that it sounds different than what it was.” Boomer says.

“How was it different?” I ask.

“They said you wanted to show me some skateboard tricks. When they knew you never said that. That had nothing to do w/ a secret.” Butch says.

“Yeah and then they said they didn’t know what we did. And said you just needed some time to get used to us.” Brick adds.

“The skateboard thing is valid. I’ll give you that. But how long ago was that? I’m sure they apologized too. But they also lied to me that day saying we had Powerpuff girls stuff to do. I think lying about the Powerpuff girls is a worse lie than saying someone will skate w/ you.” I start.

“But-.” Butch tries to argue.

“And yeah I guess they could have said maybe you guys ran into her before now and did something. But that still wouldn’t have made you happy to hear. And they honestly thought I needed time to see that you guys had changed. So that part wasn’t a lie.” I say.

“Yeah those are good arguments but you don’t act any better than we do. So why are you so mad about us after we broke up w/ them acting like we did?” Boomer asks.

“Because unlike you I’ve had a friendship w/ them and it was something that got through us having no sleep, being stressed over tests knowing we didn’t know anything, and lot of other issues caused by having to drop everything to save the city. But here comes some boys and now our friendship can’t last?” I rant.

“Well, ok that’s -.”

“Not only that but I’ve been there for when they had nightmares, when they were just upset, and the works! To help them and protect them. But then they wanna use some cheap shots and what makes me different against me. As if I was some great evil.” I continue.

“But you still-“

“So yeah I did give them the cold shoulder. In fact I’m not even here to defend them. I’m saying something because I can’t stand how you’re trying to play the victim when you’re not!” I add.

“But you were kidnapped and still didn’t even ask for help because you were being petty!” Boomer rushes out.

“One I had no way to ask for help they took away my way to communicate w/ anyone. Two they went behind my back exposing a secret that can put those I care about at risk. Three, they let some boys who we knew were trouble get in the way of us being a team. So how do you expect me to even trust them if I could communicate w/ them to save me?” I finish.

All five of them were silent. The girls were crying silently and the boys were shocked.

“Fucking grow up already and get over yourselves.” I say before I leave.

A week after that conversation the boys have been avoiding me and the girls like the plague. Meanwhile the girls have started leaving little notes and gifts of apology.

Which have all been ignored. Miko also had to go back finally. Which I was beyond happy about.

What? She’s annoying. And persistent. Not to mention crazy creepy in a really scary way.

I was going to head home. Aka to my hotel. When I stopped seeing my family waiting for me. I sighed.

“Come on Buttercup talk to us.” My dad pleads.

“We’ll talk at the lab if it’s so important.” I say.

“Then let’s go.” My mom says going to grab my arm. I step away.

“Have the professor call me when you’re there and ready to talk.” I say as I leave.

About an hour after I got to my hotel room was when I got the call. I then got ready and went down there.

“Cut to the chase and make it fast.” I say as soon as I arrive.

“Buttercup listen we’re sorry. They just told us who you were and.. we were hurt you didn’t tell us yourself especially since it seemed like they told their families. And we thought they told them a while ago. So we thought they were the better source.” My dad explains.

“And are you saying they let you keep believing that they told their families a long time ago?” I ask.

“Well no.. after a while it was clear that they only recently told them.” My mom says.

“Then how come you didn’t say hey we over reacted because we assumed and were wrong tell us your side of the story?” I ask.

“We.. uh..” My dad stutters.

“Well you see.. it was…” My mom tries to say.

“Dang sis! It was a mistake! You’ve made plenty! And this was a pretty big secret! How were we supposed to react?!” Dave asks.

“Yeah. But the thing is you put your two sense into a situation you knew nothing about. And given how little they actually told you about what happened and you to assume I was in the wrong makes me assume you think I can’t admit when I need to calm down and apologize. Like I don’t see it when I’m wrong and I blame everyone else.” I argue.

“Of course not Buttercup! We didn’t realize you felt that way. I promise from now on we won’t interfere in anything you don’t specifically involve us in.” My dad says.

“Look just leave me alone for a bit.” I say.

“How long is a bit?! It’s been weeks since you came back. And you haven’t even come home!” Dave asks.

“Because dumbass, the punks know where we live and know how to make a portal into our house. So going back there means they have easy access to me.” I explain and he shuts up.

“I.. didn’t think of that.” He says.

“None of us did.” The professor says.

“Wait if that’s why you haven’t gone home how come you still come here?” Ken asks.

“Because how much stuff is here to blow up that computer if they try to make a portal here?” I ask.

“Ok fair. But how much stuff do you have at your house to destroy a portal or fight back w/?” Ken asks.

“But this space is big. They can easily go after my family in my house as a way to threaten me and there’s less room to move and dodge an attack.” I argue.

“Ken you seriously aren’t trying to argue battlefield advantage w/ Buttercup are you?” The professor asks.

“But you have to admit if she was held in their lab coming here is the worst case scenario especially if they’re identical.” Ken argues.

“Ken, how fast could the girls and I get to the lab from anywhere in the city?” I ask.

“Uh… About ten minutes when you’re not rushing.” He says.

“And if we rush it’s almost instant no?” I ask.

“Yeah.” He agrees.

“So if I were to get attacked here the girls can be here no less than ten minutes if they don’t rush. That sounds like they can be here pretty fast so I just need to hold off for ten minutes or us four against three for ten minutes.” I say.

“Yeah that’s smart. But your dad is literally a pro wrestler. Plus there’s more in your family compared to us.” Ken argues.

“My little bro is like literally a toddler and my mom can’t fight. So it’s my dad and brother against three or two super-powered villains.” I point out.

“I didn’t see it that way.” He admits.

“But wait, what’s stopping the punks from attacking us and using us against you Buttercup?” The professor asks.

“They can’t stand you guys.” I answer w/ a shrug.

“No hesitation whatsoever.” My dad says.

“Well you saw how mad Brute was when she came and went off. The other two weren’t any happier.” I explain.

“That makes sense…” My mom says.

“Then w/ the professor, Ken, Poochi, the Mayor, and Ms. Bellum looking so much like their version of them… I doubt they could keep from hurting them which would then worsen their chances of getting me to just go over peacefully.” I add.

“Ok.. but then what about the girls?” Ken asks.

“They’re pissed about the girls choosing the boys over me and what they said to and about me. So yeah.” I state.

“But since they look alike it would be weird to beat themselves up right..?” The professor asks.

“Uh if that’s the case how do you think they were planning on taking over New Townsville and destroying us?” I asked.

“…”

Everyone was silent at my comment.

“Good point.” Ken says.

“Wait so how do you expect to fight or avoid them?” The professor asks.

“Well if they can’t find me then they can’t portal to me.” I answer.

“I guess. But let me see your belt and I’ll fix it to have a panic button. That way if they do attack you can alert us.” He says.

“I don’t have my belt.” I say casually.

“What!?” Everyone exclaimed.

“I.. don’t have my belt. They took it and I wasn’t risking getting caught escaping to look for my belt.” I answer.

“That’s understandable, but now how are you going to help the other girls?” Ken asks.

“I’ll just show up w/ a baseball bat and beat the villains.” I shrug.

“No.” The Professor says knowing I’d probably cripple someone.

“Well Poochi’s call used to be the only thing to get us to transform. So maybe if he does the call I’ll just transform?” I suggest.

Ken and the Professor looked at each other as if they were talking telepathically while thinking.

“That could work.” Ken says.

“But we’ll need to tell the other two. Otherwise they might panic at suddenly being called upon or transforming.” The Professor adds.

“Alright. I’mma take a nap while we wait.” I say jumping onto the couch and closing my eyes.

What? My family and the Professor, Ken, and Poochi are here to protect me or at least wake me up. And the girls are probably going to come here for this little experiment.

So the only people we’d be missing would be Ms. Bellum and the Mayor. Which they might show up as well simply because they’re always here.

Or video calling us. So yeah they’d probably be present in some way shape or form for this little experiment.

Which means if they’re not here they’ll be able to send in back up. And if they are then they’ll just call for assistance.

So yeah I’m perfectly safe.

“Buttercup the girls are here, wake up.” Ken says shaking me awake. I groan and sat up.

“So.. what’s happening?” Bubbles asks.

I look around and see that the Mayor and Ms. Bellum are present. But so are the girl’s families. I stretch and yawn.

“Because we’re going to try and see if I can transform.” I say.

“Why? Did something happen to your belt?” Blossom asks.

“The punks took my belt when they kidnapped me. I didn’t look for it or take it back when I left. So we’re trying to see if Poochi’s call will make it reappear on me and get me to transform.” I explain.

“Oh, well ok.” Bubbles says.

“Why didn’t you tell us sooner you didn’t have your belt!?” The Mayor exclaims.

“It’s not important that’s why.” I say casually.

“It is very important!” He yells.

“Buttercup! Show some respect to the Mayor!” My mom scolds me.

“It’s not really all that important. Shoot if I can never transform again great! I no longer have to wear a stupid skirt!” I say.

“But you agreed to follow the rules!” The Mayor argues.

“Hey without my powers I’m just a normal girl. And those rules only applied to us w/ powers.” I bring up.

“Professor let’s just see if we can still get her to transform!” The Mayor says upset.

“Poochi.” The professor says giving him the ok.

“Powerpuff girls we need-!” Poochi starts right before some weird rope muzzle wraps around his snout shutting him up.

“What the!?” Ken says.

We all turn to look where the net came from and see a swirl in the computer slowly getting bigger.

“Shit! It’s the punks!” I exclaimed.

“Language!” My mom scolds me again.

“Now’s not the time mom!” I argue.

Next thing we know a burst of green fire shoots past us. It melted the five layer reinforced steel wall! What the hell?!

“Buttercup! You’re so fucking dead when we get you!” I hear Brute yell.

I turned back to look at the portal and this is when I realized it doesn’t look the same as before.

“Looks like the portal isn’t complete yet.” I state.

“You’re right it’s not. But we’re close to finishing it. And when we get it done you’re going to regret running from us!” Berserk says.

“Oh come on show your faces cowards. I don’t like looking into the spinning circle. I’m not trying to get hypnotized.” I say rolling my eyes.

“…”

There was a moment of silence.

“That was actually pretty funny. Too bad we’re too pissed to laugh.” Brute says.

“Sucks to suck.” I say.

I had already moved over to Poochi to get the muzzle off him.

“Put the mutt down!” Berserk orders.

“I’m not holding you.” I say before I could stop myself.

“Buttercup that isn’t helping the situation.” The professor says w/ a sigh.

“I know. I said it before I could think. Leave me alone.” I say admitting defeat this time.

“Buttercup! For the love of all things unholy! Please just come back!” A familiar voice says through the computer.

It wasn’t the girls. It was more.. masculine.

“Oppressor..?” I ask hesitantly.

Suddenly the computer has picture now. Meaning we are currently looking at the punks.

Specifically Brute and Berserk. Brat was nowhere to be seen. But behind the two punks was the Oppressor looking like the actual crime scene.

“Uh.. is that me?” The professor asks.

“More or less.” I agree.

“You were right about them being your emo twins.” Ken says.

“Yep. I know. Poochi now.” I say.

“Powerpuff girls we need you!” Poochi says as I free him from the muzzle.

Suddenly there’s a glow from down a hallway of the punk’s lab. Next thing we know my belt comes soaring in and through the portal.

It stops w/ a snap as it fastens itself around my waists. Then me and the girls transform.

“Ugh.. this stupid skirt!” I complain tugging on the skirt.

“You little-! Oh Buttercup!” Brat says suddenly coming onto the screen behind the Oppressor.

She looks me up then down.

“Nice legs.” She says. I blush and the other punks look at my legs.

“Yeah, maybe we should dress her up when she comes back.” Berserk adds as Brute just nods.

“No!” I immediately argue.

“Yes.” Brute says.

“No way in hell am I letting that happen.” I say firmly.

“You won’t have a choice. It’s either dress up or we can get physical.” Brute says.

“Better yet mind telling me why did Brat come in yelling at the Oppressor?” I ask.

“Oh that’s because he decided to sneak away while I was busy beating up Killer.” Brat says.

“Why were you beating him?” I ask.

“Because she’s been a raging bitch since you’ve escaped.” Berserk says.

Suddenly a knife buries itself in the wall and Berserk has a cut on her cheek. I look back at Brat and she has this sickening sweet innocent smile on her face.

“What was that?” Brat asks.

“Damn she really is just like Bubbles.” I say.

That got both Bubbles and Brat to snap their heads towards me and glare at me.

“What was that Buttercup!?” They both chorus.

“Damn they’re identical!” I exclaimed.

Brutes laughing now.

“You’re trying to get yourself killed Buttercup!” Brutes laughs out.

“Shut up.” I say.

“How the fuck are you still able to talk?! Is this how you treat them all the time!?” The Oppressor asks.

“Uh.. yeah? And why wouldn’t I be able to talk?” I ask.

“Because the first time any of us said something that wasn’t respectful to them they almost cut our tongues out.” He says.

“Damn. Loser.” I say.

“You little stupid ass bitch!” He snaps.

“What the fuck did you just say to my daughter!?” My dad yells.

“So what? The little slut is probably whoring herself around and that’s why she was so happy to come back!” He adds.

Before my dad could say anything to defend me Brat had grabbed the Oppressor by the throat.

“Apologize now if you want to have a lighter beating.” Brat says.

She had no emotion in her voice and didn’t even hesitate to snatch him up by his throat.

“No way! The little slut probably got w/ you three and that’s why you want her so much!” He doubles down.

“We’ll be back.” Brute says.

Then she and Berserk stood up. They then helped Brat drag the Oppressor off screen.

“Ken cover your ears now.” I say.

He looked at me confused but did as I said. Not even a moment later the Oppressor was letting out stomach churning cries of pain.

Sometimes it sounded like he was gurgling something. Then after a moment or two he was back at his normal screams of pain.

And just like the last time it got louder as time went on. I looked around and saw that one Ken could still hear the screams even as he covered his ears.

Two, everyone was starting to look traumatized. I went over to the computer to see if I could cut the fee. Or whatever you would call this.

But about twenty or so minutes after I started trying things went quiet. I quickly went back to my original spot.

A couple minutes after I got back into position is when they came back covered in blood w/ a worse for wear Oppressor dragged along behind them.

“Ready to apologize now?” Berserk asks.

The Oppressor whimpered out the best he could of an apology.

“Not good enough. Maybe you need a harsher lesson?” Brute says.

The Oppressor’s eyes widened. He quickly sat up straight and yelled.

“I’m sorry Buttercup! I was and am an idiotic fool! Please forgive me!” His voice is filled w/ fear.

“Uh.. you’re forgiven…” I say feeling awkward.

“You got lucky this time.” Brat says grabbing the Oppressor by the hair to get in his face before throwing him to the ground.

“If that’s lucky I would hate to see unlucky.” I say to myself.

“But back to our main purpose of doing this. Buttercup you can decide right here and now whether or not you get punished severely or mildly.” Brute says.

“Oh and how would I choose?” I say playing along.

“Simple. You will get punished mildly if you come through the portal yourself when it’s fixed and apologize for running away.” Berserk says.

“And anything else would get me punished severely?” I add.

“Exactly.” Brat confirms.

“Now why would I go somewhere knowing I’m going to get punished there?” I ask.

They actually paused for a second as if just now realizing that their choices weren’t good.

“The same reason you eventually go home even after you did something you weren’t supposed to. Because you have to.” Brute says.

“I don’t have to go back to you girls.” I say nonchalantly.

“Yes you do. We took you fair and square.” Berserk says.

“And I escaped fair and square.” I argue.

“You ran after lying to us while we were half asleep!” Brat says.

“No, I did go to the kitchen and to get some water. I never said I was going to come back, you just assumed.” I argue.

“But still we were asleep!” Brute says.

“And you sneak attacked me as I was leaving a job, arguing w/ my family, and mad so not really paying close attention to details.” I counter.

“You’re a pain in the ass.” Brat says.

“Thank you.” I answered.

“Not a compliment.” Berserk says.

“To you it ain’t but to me it is.” I say w/ a smile.

“We’re going to get you and when we do you’ll regret being so damn stubborn.” Brute says right before they cut off contact.

“Welp, bye.” I say to everyone in the lab getting ready to go back to my hotel.

“You’re not going anywhere!” Blossom says.

I groan. I turn back around to look at everyone. They all look worried and on edge.

“Why can’t I leave?” I ask.

“Because there’s no way we’re letting you out of our sights to be off somewhere alone. Especially if they’re already this close to finishing their portal. What if they try to take you again!?” Bubbles says.

“They can’t take me if they don’t know where I am.” I argue.

“And how do you know for sure they don’t know where you’re at?” Blossom asks.

“Because I stay away from anything reflective.” I say.

“Why?” Bubbles asks.

“Because I figured out that if it can reflect then they can connect their portal to it. But can also use it to spy on us. That’s how they were able to find and take me the first time.” I explain.

“And you didn’t think to tell us this sooner?” The Mayor asks.

“It slipped my mind.” I respond.

“Slipped your mind? Slipped your mind!? The time can slip your mind. Forgetting to do something small like turning off a light can slip your mind. But you’re telling us that the way someone stalked and kidnapped you managed to slip your mind!?” The Mayor rants.

“Yeah.” I say.

“How does something that important, just slip your mind!?” He exclaims.

“Well I had just escaped. I just heard them torture a number of people for hours. And I was and still am mad at people. So I wanted to say what I needed to fast then go somewhere to rest.” I explain.

“But there’s that and then the belt. What else are you not telling us!?” He basically demands to know.

“My fucking shoe size.” I say getting annoyed and rolling my eyes.

“Be serious Buttercup!” He says.

“How about you calm down?” I say.

“Calm down?! How can I be calm when one of the city’s heroes was kidnapped and then is refusing to tell us important information because she wants to be a brat!?” He argues.

“Did you just call me a brat?” I ask.

“So what if I did?” He challenges me.

“Mr. Mayor, I think you’re forgetting something very important.” I say.

“Oh and what’s that?” He asks.

“The rules say I must show up to defend New Townsville. But it didn’t say how.” I inform.

“Obviously you will show up as the green Powerpuff girl.” He says.

“If we still had our secret identities but we don’t. So I could never transform again and just show up as me. Then put in minimum effort. All of which still technically follows the rules.” I say.

“You wouldn’t. That would put yourself in danger. Not to mention the girls and the citizens.” He says.

“The girls are big girls. They can handle it.” I say.

“You can’t be serious right now!” He exclaims.

“Of course I am. Why else would I say it?” I state.

“This is going too far Buttercup!” He declares.

“Oh well.” I say w/ a shrug.

“You need to get your act together!” He yells.

“My act is together. You just don’t like it. Too bad for you I don’t do refunds.” I say calmly.

“Enough!” The Mayor says slamming his fist onto the table.

“Let’s not forget something that’s also important.” I say.

“Which is?” He asks, still looking pissed.

“I can’t save the day if I’m sick or hurt.” I say.

“You are not honestly expecting us to believe some lie you make up?” He asks.

“Lie? Oh no. I’m more than willing to break an arm or a leg.” I say.

“What!?” Everyone gasped.

“Duh. The sports I do, have given me broken bones before. I can handle the pain. But can you handle the inconvenience?” I say smugly.

“I’m starting to think we should give her mandated therapy…” The Mayor says.

“No thanks.” I say.

“Uh.. Buttercup… We were wondering if you would be willing to have a team building sleep over at Bubbles’ place?” Blossom asks.

“Not really. I’m about to start taking some jobs again.” I answered.

“Buttercup you can’t be serious.” Ken says.

“Why not?” I ask.

“Because now that your identity is out the villains might attack the clubs you DJ at.” He argues.

“By that logic they also should have attacked the school, our homes, and the doctor’s office. I mean those would be better times to attack me.” I counter.

“Well.. I guess that’s true. Alright then.” He says accepting defeat.

“But who would honestly attack you at home Buttercup?” Blossom says.

“The punks, Him, probably Fuzzy, and definitely Princess or her sister.” I answered.

“Her sister?” Bubbles asks.

“Yeah. She was being a big time creep when I was working for her family right before I got kidnapped.” I explained.

“Really?” Blossom asks.

“Yeah, it was worse when we were on the yacht.” I add.

“What happened?” Bubbles asks.

“She tried breaking into my room.” I say casually.

“She what!?” Everyone exclaims.

“Well she tried that at the Mansion too. She also successfully broke into my bath the first night too. And made me play a private song. Which was recorded and probably posted which I’m pissed about.” I start to list off the things.

I got so caught up in what I was saying that I didn’t realize the tension in everyone else. Until the Mayor piped up.

“Seriously Buttercup! This is a lot that you’re hiding from us!” He yells.

“To be fair I kinda forgot all of this. I mean being kidnapped was more pressing.” I defend myself.

“I’ll give you that leeway. But at this point we’re sitting down and you’re going to explain the whole situation. From you taking that job to the time you escaped!” The Mayor declares.

“You’re funny. I’m out, later.” I say as I fly off.

I got back to my hotel and went to bed relatively fast. However in the middle of the night I woke up to my belt ringing.

“Hello..?” I say drowsy.

“B-buttercup… Can you come here please..?” Ken’s quiet voice asks me. Immediately I sat up now more awake.

“What’s wrong?” I ask.

“N-nightmare…” He says weakly. I sigh.

“How long?” I ask.

“Been up since Eleven. I fell asleep sometime after. Woke up just now from the nightmare… Poochi’s scared too.” He adds.

Typically that question would just to know if he got any sleep at all or has just been up all night.

“Is a window open?” I ask.

“Yeah.” He confirms.

“Be there soon.” I say, hanging up. I transformed and started flying to the lab.

I got there and flew into the open window. I de-transformed and went to his room.

“Ken I’m here…” I say softly.

“Buttercup!” Both Ken and Poochi say rushing to me.

“Shh~. It’s alright I’m here now.” I say soothingly.

I sat on Ken’s bed and held the two boys in my arms. I rocked them gently as I shooshed them.

“We both had nightmares of the punks torturing us.. well their version of us and images of the Oppressor flashed in too.” Ken explains quietly.

I sighed.

“You better not tell the others about this you two.” They looked at me confused.

“That you comforted us?” Poochi asks.

“No… So they punks liked to be all clingy as a way to punish me but I think they were also just touch starved. Well.. Brat went to punish me and I was kinda zoned out. And because I’m used to comforting the girls and you Ken I… patted her head and asked if she had a nightmare….” I admit.

“What!?” They both exclaimed giggling.

“We didn’t tell the other two that. But she did start putting my hand on her head for head pats depending on her mood.” I finish telling them.

“That’s really funny. Do you think that’s why she’s more mad than the other two that you escaped?” Ken asks.

“Maybe. I’m not sure though.” I answered.

“Why was saying she was like Bubbles so.. maddening for her but funny for the green one?” Poochi asks.

I sighed again.

“When I was there I think it was after I wrestled w/ Brute. One of the other two said it was crazy how we’re polar opposites but get along so well.” I start.

“Ok..?” Ken says.

“But well eventually it was just they were basically comparing us and whatnot. And I eventually said ok. Shocking them. But what shocked them more is that I said they and Bubbles and Blossom would be amazing friends then ran.” I sum up.

“Why did you run?” Poochi asks.

“Because they’ve been watching us for a while. And all of them were annoyed w/ the girls. And w/ how I said it I basically made them sound like simps towards the girls.” I explained.

“Oh. They probably didn’t like that.” Ken says.

“Nope. I got tackled by three people and Brute was laughing at my comment still while the girls were pissed.” I informed.

“Wait three? Why did Brute tackle you too?” Poochi asks.

“I thought that was weird too. But thinking back I was running towards where they were keeping the Oppressor and them.” I say thinking out loud.

“How.. how was it?” Ken asks.

“How was what?” I ask wanting clarification.

“Being w/ them?” Ken adds.

“Kinda fun, a bit scary, but most definitely kept me on my toes.” I say.

“Fun?” Poochi asks.

“Well Brute the green one had to train to act like me. Which was ok for a bit until she had to be nice. So watching her trying to be nice was funny. Even though I couldn’t laugh.” I explain.

“Why couldn’t you laugh?” Ken asks.

“Because they were getting frustrated. So those clingy punishments a lot of times came from me laughing when they were frustrated.” I elaborated.

“Oh. Then continue.” He says.

“Then before they were about to leave to enact their plan I played a prank on Brute because she called me princess. Which threw them off their schedule. They weren’t happy about that.” I continue.

“How many fun times were there?” Poochi asks.

“In all honesty breaking down the time I was there into percentages. I would say it was like 70% was fun, 10% kept me on my toes, 15% was uneventful and 5% percent was scary. Roughly anyways.” I state.

“Really?!” They both exclaimed.

“Then.. why did you…. Why did you come back?” Ken asks.

“What do you mean?” I ask.

“You’re fighting w/ the girls, you’re mad at your family, we’ve only added pressure; rules; and stress to your plate, and so much more. Yet you’ve mainly only really had fun w/ them. So why did you choose us, still?” He asks.

I sighed again for who knows how many times.

“I’m mad because I care. I had to stop myself from comforting the girls when the RowdyRuff boys eventually hurt them. And my family was put into danger now and to top it off they felt betrayed I didn’t tell them my secret.” I start.

“Which.. honestly sounds like more reason to leave us and stay w/ them.” Poochi says.

“But I understand their point of view. If my family hid something from me. And instead of telling us the secret themselves I had to find out from someone else. I would be hurt too. Especially if it looked like others had the same secret but their family knew meanwhile I was kept in the dark.” I point out.

“Yeah. Then how come you didn’t tell them this?” Ken asks.

“Because they immediately started assuming the worst instead of talking to me. Granted I might have done the same or I might not have. I don’t know because I wasn’t in the situation. But it hurt that they couldn’t even think that I might have a valid reason or that there’s more to the story.” I explain.

“Then how come you didn’t make them understand?” Poochi asks.

“Because angry people don’t listen to reason. And right in that moment it would sound like an excuse. Not to mention I’m petty. I would have made them figure it out themselves. Then I would hold however much time passed over their heads too.” I state.

“Isn’t that a bit much?” Ken asks.

“Anyone who doesn’t know me or isn’t close to me maybe it would have been. But Ken.. would you honestly accuse the Professor of something so out of character for him w/ out proof?” I ask.

“Of course not. Even w/ the proof I still might not believe it.” He says firmly.

“Exactly. If they truly knew me then once their anger subsided or maybe even w/ their anger they should have known that I had a reason.” I finish off.

“Buttercup.. one more question.” Poochi says.

“Go ahead.” I encourage.

“Can you hold us the entire night? Even while asleep?” He asks.

I smile softly.

“Sure. But let’s finally get some sleep ok?” I agree.

“Yeah.” Ken says agreeing w/ me.

Ken rubs his eyes and Poochi curls up on my lap next to Ken. They both soon settled down and fell asleep.

The next day I woke up and saw the Professor and Ms. Bellum taking pictures of me holding the boys as we all slept.

“Not a word.” I say slowly.

“Of course.” The Professor says chuckling.

“I hate you both.” I say.

“Careful or else these photos might end up on your school’s website.” Ms. Bellum says.

“That’s evil.” I pout.

“But effective.” She argues.

“Anyways let’s just make some breakfast.” The professor says changing the subject.

“What’s for breakfast?” I ask.

“Pancakes.” The Professor says.

“What type..?” I ask again.

“Uh.. just the normal ones…” He hesitates for a moment.

“Bubbles’ making her famous pancakes isn’t she?” I ask.

“Come on. We all love them! And she even prepared the batter the night before so that she could cook them right away when she got here!” The Professor argues.

“Sorry bu-“

“Bubbles’ grandma also came. She even made those bacon and eggs dumplings you like.” Ms. Bellum adds.

“Ken, Poochi! Wake up!” I say immediately already out of bed.

“Waah?!” Poochi screams.

“Are the punks attacking?!” Ken exclaims.

“No.” The Professor says holding back a laugh.

“But if they tried to I’m pretty sure Buttercup would kill them.” Ms. Bellum chuckles.

“The bacon and eggs dumplings huh?” Ken says already assuming that was what made me suddenly wake them up.

“Yeah.” The Professor confirms.

“Rude.” I say looking at them.

“Come on let’s go before the food gets cold.” Ms. Bellum says.

“Don’t need to tell me twice!” I say running out of the room.

I entered the living room and saw the Mayor, the girls, Bubbles’ grandma, my family and Blossom’s family.

I was still in my Pj’s but I didn’t care. I just sat on the couch and waited for Bubbles and her grandma to allow us to eat.

“Looks like those two already trained you huh?” My dad teases. I looked at his slightly swollen hand.

“Looks like you’re in the process of getting trained.” I say smirking at him. He laughs.

“There’s my daughter.” He says patting my back. But with how light his touch is it was more like a light pat.

“Buttercup. How did you survive in your house? We went to get them so that we could all be here and they were already up and your brothers were fighting your dad!” Blossom asks.

I laughed. It took me a bit to calm down.

“That’s normal. Actually it was the guys against me for a while. But that obviously stopped after I got kidnapped.” I say when I could breathe again.

“Really?!” Bubbles exclaims.

“Yeah. And I was about to beat them too but then I got the Moorebucks job and yeah.” I say with a shrug.

“How are you even this strong?” Blossom asks.

“Talent.” I say flexing my muscles.

“Don’t get cocky now Buttercup. The professor and I can easily get you off your high horse.” Ms. Bellum says.

“I’m going to break your phones one of these days.” I mumble under my breath.

She and the professor just laugh at me.

“What dirt do they have on you?” My dad asks.

“I don’t want to talk about it.” I grumble.

“Now I really wanna know.” Dave says.

“Not happening.” I shut down.

“Enough arguing or you’re getting served last.” Bubbles’s grandma says.

I immediately shut up.

“Just how good is her food to where you shut up like that?” Dave asks.

“Very.” I respond.

After that it wasn’t long till we were allowed to eat. My family’s eyes lit up at the food. Yes we’re practically a family of foodies.

Then after our breakfast I went and got ready for school.

“Good morning class! Today in gym class you will be tested on your physical health one by one by the gym teacher! Blossom, Bubbles and Buttercup. You three will be last because we’ll also be testing whether your powers have affected you physically in an unfair way.” Ms. Keen announces.

“Why the sudden test?” I ask.

“Some parents have expressed concerns about how you play sports with the other students. They wonder if your powers might activate and hurt the other students by accident.” Ms. Keen explains.

“But our powers are basically turned off unless we transform.” I inform.

“Are they? Or are they just weakened?” She asks.

“They should be. But we never tried using them before without transforming though.” I answer.

“Then they might be active still. Which is why we’re just doing this test ok?” She says.

“Yeah I guess it makes sense.” I relent.

The day goes by pretty fast. And next thing I know it’s gym class. The test went from stamina, speed, endurance, and strength.

The class went quickly enough. I think it’s because no one was trying to beat any records like usual or anything.

They just wanted to see what the girls and I could do with and without our powers.

First Blossom went. Her scores were about the same as everyone else’s just a bit below though.

Then Bubbles. Her scores were more average. Then they did it again powered up and their scores improved drastically.

Then they did it again after transforming and their scores were about the same maybe a bit less than their first scores.

So it was determined that their powers didn’t affect them unless they transformed. Which leaves it now as my turn.

It’s been about 20 minutes since I started and I’m still going. And this is my first go still. So I’m not even powered up. I was actually shocked that my strength and stamina improved this much.

It was after school and I was still going. They stopped me and told me to get cleaned up. They didn’t want me out at night unless absolutely necessary.

So that’s what I did. I went straight to the locker room and started cleaning up. When I got out of the shower and went to change into my normal clothes I started to get a bad feeling.

I pulled my clothes out of my locker and shut it only to see right there next to me was Brute.

“Gah!?” I stumbled back.

But a set of hands caught me.

“Hey there Buttercup. Long time no see.”  Berserk says into my ear from behind me.

“This is creepy as fuck.” I say.

She and Brute chuckle.

“Brat’s waiting for us to come back with you. Let’s not keep her waiting.” Brute says and Berserk starts dragging me.

“Hey let me get dressed!” I complain.

“No!” They both say right before I’m pulled through the portal.