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"Okay, Atlanta, art thou ready to rock?" I shout into the microphone.

"YEAH!" the crowd responds.

"A one, a two, a one, two, three, four!" I count out before we bust into song.

Sometimes when thy hopes have all been shattered,
There's no where to turn.
Thou wonder how thou keep going!
Think of all the things that really matter
And the chances thou have earned,
The fire in thy heart is growing!
Thou can fly if thou try leaving the past behind.
Heaven only knows what thou might find!
Dare!
Dare to believe thou can survive.
Thou hold the future in thy hands.
Dare!
Dare to keep all thy dreams alive!
It's time to take a stand!
Thou can win if thou dare!
Everyone's trying to break thy spirit
By keeping thee down!
Seems like it's been forever.
There's a little voice,
If thou will just hear it,
Saying that it's the last time.
Looks like it's now or never!
Out of the darkness,
Thou stumble into the light,
Fighting for the things thou know art right!
Dare!
Dare to believe thou can survive!
The power is there at thy command!
Dare!
Dare to keep all thy dreams alive!
It's time to take a stand!
Thou can win if thou dare!
Dare!
Dare to believe thou can survive!
Dare!
Dare to keep all thy dreams alive!
The power is there at thy command!
Thou can win if thou dare!
Dare!
Dare to keep all thy love alive!
Dare to be all that thou can be!
Dare!
There is a place where dreams survive!
It's calling thee onto victory!
Dare!
Dare!
Oooohoh!¹

After singing a dozen or so more songs, we head backstage to go to our next gig in Washington, DC. I sigh softly as I toss my brown hair, freeing it from the white hair wig. I start to undress when the door opens quietly.

"Who is it?" I call out as I grab a towel to wrap around my body.

"No one who you need to worry about," a man hisses as another man grabs me from behind.

"Hey!" I start to shout as a piece of tape is placed over my mouth.

"Hold still you," the man holding me growls as I struggle in his arms.

"I like my women with fire. Such a beautiful body. I think I will just take what I want from it," he hisses evilly after stripping my body of all my clothes.

Tears fall from my eyes as I try to separate my mind from the pain of my body. They treat me cruelly and leave me tied up to the floor. The upper part of my inner thighs is covered with blood and male fluids. I tug hard on my bonds, breaking free of them.

Then I get cleaned up, vowing vengeance as soon as I find those monsters. The tears fall again as I try to figure out what happened to my bodyguard. I sigh softly as I dress and head for the bus.

"Hey, She-cat, is everything okay?" Michael asks me as I climb slowly into the bus.

"Huh? Oh, fine, Michael," I reply as I slump into my seat. I do not have the courage to tell them that I was just violated, in fear that they would scorn me.

I gaze absently out the window, watching the miles roll away behind us. I remain in my spot for most of the trip to DC. I only get up to get a bite or two to eat, drink, sleep, and use the restroom. Whenever Calderon stops, everyone but I climb out of the bus to look around the truck stop. I rest my head against the one way window, looking at nothing in particular.

A light shake on my shoulder causes me to look up into the worried eyes of my band. I sigh as I wait for the questioning to begin. My wait is short as they fire off the questions at once at me.

"I'm fine. No, I am not sick. I am just doing some deep thinking, that's all," I reply over their voices.

They leave it at that as we set up the equipment at Wolftrap Stadium. While I wander around the stage, several men approach us. I look up at them, and my normally smooth fur puffs out in anger.

"My name is Mr. Creed, and we represent the Friends of Humanity. We came to see if the White Lioness and her band would care to speak about the threats caused by mutant freaks," the leader replies.

I rub my chin slightly as I think to myself, "Such a bigoted man. I would love to put him in his place right here and now. But why not do it in front of a lot of people instead?" I smirk as I answer, "I'll be glad to speak at thy get together."

"She-cat," Michael starts. I stop him by holding my hand up for him to be still.

"Good. We will send a limousine around 5 PM. It will take place at the Mall."

After they leave, I turn to my fellow band members. I see the anger and frustration in each of their eyes. I sigh as I shake my head.

"I did not say I would speak AGAINST mutants," I smirk softly.

It dawns on each of them as they in turn smirk. We finish preparing for the concert later that day. I help by directing some of the roadies to place certain props in certain positions.

At 5 PM on the nose, a white limousine pulls up to the stadium doors. We climb in and enjoy the ride. I smile softly as we stop in front of the flat lawn in front of the Washington Monument.

"As our guest speaker, here is the White Lioness," Creed replies into the microphone.

I mount the stage with my band behind me. The crowd applauds loudly as I bow to them. A faint smirk plays on my lips as Creed hands me the microphone.

"The Friends of Humanity say they are for normal people, but can anyone truly tell me or themselves what IS normal? Look at the people around thee, my friends. Does a normal person have brown hair and blue eyes? Then, over 75% of thee would be classified as not normal. Is it considered normal to be especially talented with an instrument? No, we call that gifted. What about the athletes? They can run faster and play the games harder and better than an average person can. Are they called freaks? No, and finally what about the movie stars and the entertainers of all walks of the show biz? They are just like thee and me. All of these people are just a cut above the rest. In nature, evolution decides which species remains and which dies. That is what is happening with the human race. There is no true meaning to the word normal, for none of us are normal. To say that I am for normal humans is to say that I am against all of humanity. I am not normal, and none of thee is normal as well. Think about it," I speak into the microphone.

The hypnotic powers of my singing voice work its way into my speech. I sigh as I hear struggling, and a young man with a scarf around his mouth is pulled onto the stage. There is cruelty in Creed's eyes as I realize my hypnotic voice did not touch his heart and mind.

"Oh yeah? Then what do you say about this?!" Creed shouts as he removes the scarf to reveal a furnace of pure energy where his throat, chest, and stomach would be.

I look around to see the fear in everyone's eyes. I shake my head softly as I move towards the bound teenager. I hear my band gasp as my claws extend and come down quickly. The next second, he is free, and I look up into Creed's angry eyes.

"Have we learned nothing from the Nazis? Nothing from the Klu Klux Klan? Hatred only breeds more hatred. Eventually it will engulf the world and everyone on it. I refuse to follow that path."

"Then you are a traitor!" Creed replies as he pulls a gun.

Quicker than any eye can follow, the gun explodes in Creed's hand. My hand is outstretched as everyone hears the screaming whistle of a flying object. Seconds after the gun explodes, I catch the object. I smirk as I twirl my shurken easily in my hand.

"No, Creed. It is thee who are the traitor. The Nazis persecuted nearly everyone but pure Germans. The Klu Klux Klan hunted African Americans and those who tried to help them. Thou are as bad, if not worse than they were and are. Thou hunt mutants just because thou fear what thou do not understand. I do not care what thou think or say, but the instant thou try to endanger someone who can NOT help how they were born is when thou become the traitor," I reply as I pick up his scarf and gently wrap it around his face.

"Why are you doin' this, gel?" I hear a voice inside my head speak.

"I do it because it is the right thing to do. I am sorry that thou had to go through this," I state aloud, knowing that it is the teenager in front of me talking to me via telepathy.

"But you could have gotten hurt, or worse," he continues.

"That may have been, but that was a risk I had to take. If our positions were switched, what would thou have done?" I ask as I lead the way through the crowd to our limousine.

"I guess I would have to say the same," he replies as I notice a group around the vehicle.

"May I help thee?" I ask them.

"Man, that was so sweet in the way you put him in his place and helped Jono as well," the California accented black hair teenage girl replies.

"Jubilee, please. Thank you for saving Jonothan," the Irish accented blond hair man states as he holds his hand out to me.

"Thou art welcomed, Mr.…?" I start as I shake his hand.

"My name is Sean Cassidy. This is Emma Frost. Jonothan Starsmore, you have already met. Jubilation Lee greeted you. These are Paige Guthire, Angelo Espendoza, Monet St. Croix, and Everett Thomas."

"I am pleased to meet thee all. Do any of thee like my music? Now, be brutally honest," I reply.

"Yeah!" all of the reply save for Monet.

"Hey, Bri, do I still have those freebies?"

"Freebies? Oh, yeah, here they are," he replies as he hands me a packet.

Very carefully, I open it and hand the teenagers and the two adults front row tickets and backstage passes. I smirk as the teenagers beam with happiness. I nod as we get into the limousine.

"I will see thee at the concert tonight. We'll be looking for thee," I reply as the vehicle pulls away from the Mall.

"Thanks! We'll be there!" Jubilee shouts back to us.

A very small smirk plays on my lips as we head back to our hotel room. A short time later finds us heading to the stadium. I wander around, waiting for the start time. I lift up my right hand and flex it. Five white and sharp claws snap out of the fingertips. At my hip resides the shirakin from the truck driver, Mac. It looks like a decoration vice an actual weapon.

"Hey, She-cat, it's almost show time," Aieo replies as she tweaks her instrument.

"So it is. So it is," I reply as I head for the stage.

"These dudes and dudettes are ready to rock, She-cat," Ryder replies as he peeks out the stage curtain.

I lower my head, and we sing and dance to the music. I let the pain slip away from my body and allow the joy of the music fill my heart and soul. Towards the end of the concert, I lower my head again.

"These next two songs are songs that my band asked if I could write about. I hope everyone enjoys them as much as we do playing them."

Now the seats are all empty
Let the roadies take the stage.
Pack it up and tear it down.
They are the first to come
And the last to leave
Working for that minimum wage
They will set it up in another town
Tonight, the people were so fine
They waited in line
And when they got up on their feet,
They made the show.
And that was sweet.
I can hear that sound
Of slamming doors and folding chairs,
And that's a sound I'll never know.
So roll those cases
And get them up those ramps
Because when it comes to moving us,
Thou know thou art the champs!
But when that last guitar has been packed away,
Thou know that I still want to play.
So be sure thou have it all set to go
Before thou come for my microphone.

Rahimi and Ryder play over a dozen or so notes while the rest of us wait with our heads slightly bowed. Then I grab the microphone and lift my head. The rest of the band plays along side the two while I sing.

Put the band on the bus,
And only then will I be ready to go.
We’ve got to drive all night
And do the show in New York
Or Detroit, I don’t know
We do so many shows in a row.
These towns all look the same.
We just pass the time in our hotel rooms
And wander around backstage.
Until those lights come up,
And we hear that crowd
And we remember why we came!

Then Michael, Bryan, Jeanine, Ryder, and Aieo play together as I move next to Rahimi. I wait a few beats and then nod to Rahimi. I move back to center stage and pick up the song.

Now we’ve got country and western
On the bus

"R and B," Rahimi sings.

We’ve got disco and eight tracks
And cassettes and stereo.
And we’ve got rural scenes and magazines,
And we’ve got truckers on CBs,
We’ve got Richard Pryor on the video.
We’ve got time to think of
The ones we love
As the miles roll away.
The only time that seems too short
Is the time we get to play!
People, thou have got the power
Over what we do.
Thou can sit there and wait,
Or thou can pull us through,
Come along,
Sing the song.
Thou know that thou can not go wrong!
Because when that morning sun
Comes beating down,
Thou art going to wake up in thy town,
But we’ll be scheduled to appear,
A thousand miles away from here.²
People, stay
Just a little bit longer
We want to play
Just a little bit longer
Now, thy mother won’t mind
And the union won’t mind,
If we take a little time
And we leave it all behind
Sing for one more song!

Then I look to Ryder and nod. He smiles as he leans closer to the microphone. He picks up the song where I stopped.

"Oh, won’t you stay just a little bit longer. Please, please, please, say you will!"

I then join him as we finish the song. The crowd cheers as I look in the front row to see not only the teenagers from the Friends of Humanity rally but also my younger brother, Charles. I nod to him as we end the song and the concert.

Oh, won’t thee stay
Just a little bit longer
Oh, please, please stay
Just a little bit more.
Now, thy father won’t mind
And the roadies don’t mind
If we take a little time
And we leave this all behind
Sing one more song!
Thank thee all again.³

We take our bows and head backstage. There the young teenagers chatter noisily about the concert with the band members. I notice Charles by himself off to one side of my dressing room door.

"Excuse me, everyone. I need to talk to someone. I will be right back," I reply as I make my way to my dressing room.

"Hey, sis. You haven’t written us or even called. Mom’s getting worried," Charles reprimands softly after we are safely in my room.

"Sorry, a lot’s happened," I reply as I check my artistic work on my face.

"Care to share?" he asks as he places a hand on my shoulder.

"I need to talk to someone. What I have to tell you, bro, doesn’t leave this room. Understood?" I look at him through the mirror.

"Compliance," he responds with a slight smirk on his lips.

He sees the seriousness in my facial features and realizes that I mean business. He sighs and sits down in a chair. I pull my own chair to face him.

"I mean it. You tell no one else, understand?" I growl softly at him. His nod enables me to continue. "At the Atlanta concert, my guard was lured away, and two men came into my dressing room, and…" I lower my head before continuing, "raped me. I smelt the alcohol on their breaths…" I stop as I hear Charles slam his fist straight through the dressing table near his chair.

"Why didn’t you report it to the police?" he growls at me.

"I was afraid that they would reveal who I really am. I could not take that risk. Besides, it happened so quickly that I was unable to get my mind straight to do so."

"That is no excuse," he storms towards the door.

"Wait! Where are you going?" I ask.

"I figured something was wrong, and I did my own snooping. Turns out that the guard was there when you were raped, and they were even bragging about how they got a sweet bit of singer a week or so ago. I listened, and their information coincided with that concert. I am going to teach them some manners," he storms away to his vehicle.

"Don’t do anything…," I pause and wince as he slams the door in my face, "hasty."

I shake my head as I wipe the tears from my face. Then I head back to finish with the teenagers and their questions. I flex my claws instinctively as I feel a cold chill dance down my spine. I look around and see no one.

"Are those claws real?" Jubilation asks as she notices my flexing claws.

I raise my hand and motion a roadie to me. Everyone gasps as my claws easily shred the stainless sheet of steel to ribbons. I lift and eyebrow at them with a very small smirk playing on the side of my mouth.

"Any other questions?"

"Why are they so sharp?" Everett asks as he eyes the shredded steel.

"In this day and age with all that has been happening everywhere, need thou ask?" I reply.

"Good point, gel," Jonothan replies mentally.

"Well, time to get on the road. Good luck to each of thee, and I hope to see thee again," I reply as I shake their hands.

Our drive is long as we head to the core of the Big Apple. Everyone oohs and ahs as I just shake my head. My mind wanders back to the stories Master Splinter and the Ninja Turtles have told me about the big city. Quite frankly, I was unimpressed.

Soon we sign in at the hotel. I unpack my things for the concert in a few days when there is a knock at my door. I sigh as I walk over to the door, my claws ready for an attack.

"Yes, who is it?" I ask through the door.

"Hey, She-cat, want to go sightseeing with the rest of us?" Aieo asks from the other side.

"No thanks. Thou go ahead. There are things that I need to do on my own. Don’t worry about me," I reply as I crack the door to look at them.

"Okay, She-cat. We’ll see ya’ later," Jeanine replies as she and Aieo tug Michael, Bryan, Ryder, Rahimi and Calderon out of the hotel.

I sigh as I close the door behind me. I quickly change into my street clothes and easily make my way to the parking garage. In the designated spot is my red truck. I snap my fingers as I start him up easily.

"To remind me of my own love for the music, I will call you from here on Rock ‘n Roll, Rocky for short. I feel like visiting some friends. Man, I know I need someone to talk to who won’t do anything rash. At least, I hope they don’t."

Soon I park near an abandoned manhole. I make sure that I am legally parked, my truck locked, and the alarm system is on before I lift the heavy manhole cover. I turn on my flashlight after I land on the side of the running sewer line.

I shine the light in one direction and then the other. I nod as I head in the direction my flashlight shone in second. Soon I hear the sound of people moving ahead of me. I turn off my flashlight and prepare for the worse. I quietly draw my double-edged sword and turn the ring at the top of the hilt. I let the sword become two katanas as I ready to fight if needed.

"I think there is someone in the shadows ahead of us," a familiar voice whispers.

I release a sigh of relief as I catch the flying sai. I put it under my arm as I sheath my sword. I flip on my flashlight and light the cement as the air fills with ninja stars.

"Hey, dudes, chill!" I shout while covering my head with my hands.

"Christal? Is that you?" Donatello asks as the stars slowly die down from flying.

"If I was the Shredder, you would not be having this conversation with me," I retort as I brush the dirt off me.

"She’s got a point," Leonardo replies.

"Sorry, dudette, but a lot has been happening," Michaelangelo states.

"Tell me about it. On your way home?" I ask as I take Leonardo’s offered hand as he pulls me to my feet.

"Sure, we’re also having pizza. Care to join us?" Michaelangelo asks.

"What sort of pizza?" I ask as I hand Raphael’s sai back to him.

"Thanks. Just what ya’ would call super supremes," Raphael answers as he sheaths his sai on his belt.

"No weird toppings?" I smirk as I lift an eyebrow at them while we continue on our way to their den.

"Nah, April’s buying, and she wants some regular pizzas. So we thought to give it a try," Donatello comments as we enter the den.

"Welcome back, guys. Who is this?" a woman in a yellow jumpsuit asks as she takes one pizza carton.

"April O’Neil, this is Christal Falcon. We met her while looking for Master Splinter," Donatello replies through a mouthful of pizza.

"I see they haven’t changed," I reply as I take the offered plate and napkin. "Thanks."

"No problem. What brings you to New York?" April asks as she takes a bite out of her pizza slice.

"The White Lioness tour and to speak to Master Splinter if he is here?"

"Yes, I am here, child. Finish your pizza, and we can talk," Master Splinter replies as he finishes his sushi roll.

"Yes, sensei," I reply as I eat two pieces and then wash my hands.

"Please, sit and tell me what is on your mind," he coaxes.

I listen for a second, hear the sounds of the TV in the next room, and smirk a little. Knowing that we could not be interrupted or have unwanted listeners, I begin my tale. I watch Master Splinter’s reaction as I speak.

"Four weeks ago, I performed at the Atlanta Superdome. I sang several suggestive songs. One man came into my dressing room. They smelled of cheap beer and were able to get my guard to betray me. I was pinned and brutally raped," I sob as I lay my head against his furry chest.

My tears slowly soak his fur. I feel his fur ruffle in anger as he places his arms around me. I feel some of my pain and sorrow slip away from my heart. I turn my head as I hear someone clear his throat.

"Who did it, and where are they?" Leonardo asks as he tightly grips his katana blades.

"Charles has already gone after them. I don’t know where they are. I was hoping that I could talk to someone who wouldn’t, um, fly off the handle," I reply as I wipe my eyes with Master Splinter’s offered handkerchief.

"Sorry, Chris. It’s just that they had no right…," Leonardo starts.

"They had no right of what?" April asks as she peeks in on us.

"Can she be trusted?" I ask Master Splinter.

"Yes, she can," he answers.

"Then you can tell her, and make her swear to secrecy. The last thing I need is my secret revealed," I answer as I get up and move away from them.

A short while later, April places a hand on my shoulder. I look back at her. Tears shine in my eyes as I lower my sadden gaze.

"I know that there is nothing I can say or do to ease your pain, but we are here for you, whenever you need, okay?"

"Okay."

"And in other news, the Autobots are currently in New York trying to defeat the latest in schemes by the Decepticons," the newscaster replies over the TV in the next room.

"Autobots? Oh, great. The Decepticons are at it again," I sigh as I head to leave.

"You leaving so soon, dudette?" Michaelangelo asks.

"Yeah, my band is going to send out search parties if I am not back in time," I comment as I leave the sewers.

"Safe journey, Christal," Leonardo calls out after me.

"Safe journey to unto all of you as well," I return as I climb inside my truck.

Rocky rumbles to life with the turn of the ignition key. I drive easily through the crowded New York streets. Soon I stop near the area where the reporter said the Autobots were last seen. I pull my double-edged sword and shiriakin out and strap them into place.

"Ready to shake up ‘em Autobots, Rumble?" the twin Decepticon cassette, Frenzy, asks his partner in crime.

"Let’s shake them up!" Rumble returns evilly.

"Oh no, you two don’t!" I call out as I let my shiriakin fly at them.

Sparks fly off their arms from the shiriakin. I catch it easily in one hand. Seconds later, both sets of their arms fall off in the middle of transforming into pile drivers.

"Who are you?" Rumble cries out as I turn to face Ravage.

"Bring it on, Ravage!" I exclaim as I hold my arms out in front of me with the palms down towards the pavement.

Rings of energy emanate from my hands and hit the street. The street in front of me begins to shake as Ravage launches towards me. I raise my hands up to shoulder height and then lower them down to my waist. As I repeat the moves, the ground ripples, and chunks of pavement pin the inky metal gray jaguar cassette to the cement.

"Yeah, just who are you?" Frenzy asks as they try to stand.

"My name is Christal Lynn Falcon. I am a friend of the Autobots, and," I drop my voice to sound sinister, "your worst nightmare, Decepticons."

"Pathetic human, I will crush you like an insect," Starscream growls as he raises his foot to step on me.

My hands instinctively go up to block. I catch his foot and push up to throw him completely off balance. He lands heavily on top of Ravage, Frenzy, and Rumble. My hands glow as I make a sewing motion in front of me. Seconds later, titanium steel coils tightly bind the four Decepticons to the ground, disabling them.

"There. That will keep you four out of mischief for a while."

I turn in time to dodge a falling Autobot. His gun lands next to me as I look up to see an angry Megatron. I grab the fallen Autobot and shout the only thing that comes to my mind at that very second. A mere second later, Megatron fires his fusion cannon at us.

"Teleport!" I shout.

A crater is all that remains. I wipe sweat from my brow as I look at the Autobot that I just saved. I sigh softly as a small smirk plays on my lips.

"Oh," the white sports car Autobot moans softly as he sits up slightly. "Man, what happened to Megatron?"

"Shh, Jazz, we’re behind him. Look down," I reply as I point to the Decepticon leader releasing his minions from their titanium steel chains.

"Whoa, how’s come he isn’t finishing the job with me? That’s not his style."

"Of course not. He thinks you are already destroyed with me. I just, um, teleported us to safety. That’s all."

"How did you do that? For that matter, who are you?" he asks me as he picks up his gun.

"Name’s Christal Lynn Falcon, and as to how, let’s just say it is something I am gifted with," I reply while shrugging my shoulders.

"Christal, huh? Now, where have I heard that name before?" he teases.

"This is from where," I casually comment as the wind slowly picks me up. "Now, to dish out some major punishment." Jazz smirks as I raise my hand up into the air. "Lightning strike!" I hiss as I bring my hand down towards the rooftop.

A streak of white lightning crashes down onto the unsuspecting Decepticons. Their screams of terror, pain, and anger bring a slight smirk to my lips as I concentrate and cause a giant electrical storm to appear right above them. Further curses and swearing floats up to our ears and audio receptors.

"You’re bad," Jazz comments as he offers me a lift to terra firma.

"Hey, times change. I had best change or get out of the way," I retort as we land easily on the other side of the building.

A strange sensation sends shivers up and down my spine. I shake it off me and look around the area after jumping out of Jazz’s arms. Seeing no one, I shrug and follow the Autobot to his comrades.

"Hey, Jazz, I thought for sure Megatron got ya’," the boom box styled Autobot comments as he fires at a Decepticon jet.

"I would have been if it wasn’t for Christal here."

"Hey, Christal, I’ve heard about you. I’m sure there’s a lot of guys who will be happy to see ya’," Blaster replies while dodging the Decepticon’s laser fire.

"Hold still an’ fight," Iron Hide complains as he tries to hit one of the flying Decepticons.

"Allow me, Iron Hide," I comment casually as I step in front of the Autobot.

"Ah don’t believe it. Ma’am, ya’ had best git back before them…," he starts; however, laser fire strafes around me. All the Autobots gasp as the smoke clears, and I turn to smirk at them slightly.

"Christal Falcon, I don’t believe it," Optimus replies as he knocks a Decepticon Stunticon backwards.

"Right as rain. Now, let’s see. Mmm, I think these ‘cons need to be grounded," I easily reply as I raise my hands. Then I clench my fists and jerk them down to the ground. Seconds later, the flying Decepticons crash into the ground. I smirk again as I motion to the Autobots.

"Thanks," Iron Hide replies as he fires at the now nonflying Decepticons.

"I think… Yeah, I want to test my mettle," I smirk as I mentally start my truck up and drive it to me.

I climb in the front seat and go after one of the Stunticons. Ignoring warnings and concentrating on my target, I smash headfirst into the car. Rocky roars as he sinks down on top of the car. Then I use Rocky’s engine to push the car into the Stunticon truck rushing towards me. Both car and tractor-trailer crush together, and steam breathes out of the two devastated vehicles. I smirk as I look at my handiwork.

"Nothing like American titanium steel to take the punch out of fiberglass and foreign steel," I comment as I shift into reverse to avoid the side collision from the formula one Stunticon.

He rams directly into his fellow partners as I chuckle. The Autobots shake their heads as I swerve again to dodge yet a second stunt car. He vaults over the formula one racer and lands upside down on his roof.

"Wow, I didn’t know a normal vehicle could bang up Stunticons," Bumblebee comments as the Decepticons flee.

"I cheated too. I used my gifts to enhance his abilities."

"His?" Prowl asks as I climb out of Rocky.

"Yeah, Prowl. Rock and Roll here, Rocky for short, is my new truck. I used some of my training to create a super strong force field." I shrug my shoulders as I smirk.

"You should not take on so much," Optimus chastises me.

"Don’t be so hard on ‘er, Optimus. She helped us in ways that she only knew how to," Iron Hide intercedes.

"Very well. What brings you to New York, anyway?" Optimus asks. Spikes stands next to Bumblebee with a pretty blonde woman.

"Well, you know that I am with that White Lioness group, right? We are having a concert here in New York City for several nights."

"Why that long?" Spike asks me.

"It is because we were having problems with our fans not being able to attend at certain times and dates, so by increasing the number of concerts to the size of the city, we increase the chances of all our fans seeing our concerts," I explain.

"Oh wow, I’ve been trying to get tickets to one of the White Lioness’s concerts, but they’ve been sold out each time. Do you think there is anyway that you could get me some tickets?" the blond woman asks.

"And you are?" I ask as I lift an eyebrow at her.

"She’s Carlie. She’s a, um, friend of mine," Spike responds hesitantly.

"And a friend of the Autobots too, I wager," I smirk as I wink. "For a friend of the Autobots who are STILL my friends, regardless of what anyone may say or do, sure. How many do you need?" I ask as I go to my truck to pull out my concert tickets that I reserved for my friends and family.

"Well, could I have two?" she asks timidly.

"Sure, and two backstage passes, right?"

"How did you know that I wanted to go there?" she asks as I hand her two tickets and two passes.

I shrug my shoulders as I smirk. "Never did knew how I know. Something I was born with, I guess."

"We’ll see you at the concert then," Carlie calls after me as I drive away from the waving Autobots.

"Nah, Carlie. You won’t see Christal Falcon, but you’ll see the White Lioness," I chuckle to myself.

I hide Rocky in a parking garage and sneakily make my way into my hotel room. I feel the cold shivers dance up and down my spine. I ready my shirakin and crouch low to the ground.

"I was wondering when you would show up," a voice states as I flip on the lights in my hotel room.

"Who are you?" I growl softly as I notice a bald man in a wheelchair in the room.

"My name is Professor Charles Xavier of the School for Higher Learning in Salem Center, New York," he responds.

"So why did you come all this way to speak to me?" I reply.

"I came to speak to the White Lioness. Instead of her, you come into her room," he replies as I grab my stuff and take it to the bathroom.

"Just wait a few minutes, and you’ll regret entering this room unbidden," I growl softly.

"We don’t take kindly ta’ threats, darlin’, so don’t try anythin’," a second voice calls out to me.

"That is no threat. It was a promise," I growl as I leap out of the room.

The white fur of the costume shines gently as I growl and flex my claws for battle. I hear a growl to one side and quickly sidestep a man in a black and yellow costume. As he passes me, I rake my claws along his side. He roars in anger and pain as he is instantly immobilized.

"Wolverine, enough. We did not come here to battle, child. We merely wish to speak to the White Lioness," the Professor comments.

"Thou art looking at her. It is unfortunate thou learned who and what I look like," I growl menacingly while moving towards them.

For a brief second I feel as though an invisible wall blocks my path. I shake my head as I look at the Professor. Somehow, I know he uses some sort of power to stop me.

"We came here to learn about you," a blue furred man replies as he jumps through my window.

"And thou art?" I ask while lifting an eyebrow.

"Doctor Henry Hank McCoy. Have you ever been tested for the mutant gene?" he asks as I stop moving forward on my own.

"Not to my knowledge. If that is what thou art after, thou should have just asked vice breaking into my room," I comment as I sit down in a chair.

"We are mutants. It is sometimes hard to approach anyone without them going into fear," the Professor replies softly.

"Understandable. Mankind fears the unknown, and thus mutant kind is an unknown factor in their lives," I reply as Dr. McCoy takes a quick blood sample.

"Do you study philosophy?" Dr. McCoy asks as he places my blood into a slide.

"No. My passions have been singing, writing, and doing art. I only study the academic side in order to better write my stories, sing my songs, or add flair to my art."

"Well, Hank?" Wolverine asks.

"There is no trace of the mutant gene," is Dr McCoy’s sudden reply.

"Hmm. That is strange. I can sense her power, and Synch even told us that she has some sort of power," the Professor replies while rubbing his chin.

"Why art thou so interested in whether or not I have the mutant gene?" I ask as I look at them.

"There are those who have such strong powers who are mutants. They would use those powers for their own purposes," Professor Xavier comments.

"Every concert and every song I have performed, people who attended or listened to my songs have come out for the better. I use my singing to promote peace and goodwill towards all; however, there is no true way to get over many people’s greatest fears," I sigh as I shake my head softly.

"So you do have powers," Dr. McCoy replies.

"To a degree. There is only so much I can do with them. Besides, I am not using my voice to attack or cause harm," I reply.

"What is your real name?" Professor Xavier asks me.

"If I told, would thou use that information against me?" I ask while flexing my claws.

"Your name is safe with us. We will never tell," Professor Xavier promises.

"Very well." I close my eyes and take a breath. "My name is Christal Falcon."

"It is nice to meet you," Dr. McCoy replies as he shakes my hand.

"Wait. Is your school related to the Massachusetts Academy?" I ask.

"Yes, it is. Why do you ask?" Professor Xavier asks.

"I met some of their students while in DC," I turn to hear the door knock. "Coming! Best leave. I hope to see thee around," I reply over my shoulders as I open the door.

"Hey, She-cat, are you okay? I thought I heard voices," Ryder asks as he looks around the room behind me.

"Thou probably heard the TV. These new sets make it really sound like there are people in the room," I comment casually.

"Good point. Come on. We have a concert to play," Ryder replies as he moves to the elevator.

"I’m coming. Just let me lock up here!" I call after him.

I notice on my bed an envelope with my name on it. I look around and see my visitors are gone. There is no other trace of them in the room.

"Dear White Lioness,

Emma Frost, headmistress of the Massachusetts Academy, has told me how you saved Jonothan Stratsmore from the Friends of Humanity. We thank you for your kindness and wish that there were more people like you.

Sincerest wishes,

Professor Charles Xavier," the letter read.

"Not a problem," I mutter to myself. "I rescued him because it was the right thing to do. Not because I wanted a reward. Hmph, the most I ask is friendship. One never knows when one needs a helping hand in a strange or unusual situation." I shrug as I lock my door after hiding the letter.

"What took you?" Michael asks as I stride to our limousine.

"Hey, I had to make sure my room was secured. This is, after all, New York City," I comment as we climb into the white limousine.

"So what song are we going to start the concert with?" Jeanine asks as she looks over her drumsticks, which never leave her side.

"Mmm. Good question. How about "the Touch?" Ryder asks as he looks out the window.

"I was thinking about "the Power of One" to start out," Bryan supplies.

"What do you think, She-cat?" Michael asks me.

"Mmm. How about "Holding Out For a Hero"? It would be appropriate," I comment as I face them.

"In this town where cries fer help go unheard, and there’s more crime each day, that sounds good, mum," the driver replies as everyone nods their approval.

"Then "Holding Out For a Hero" it is," I finalized.

Once we are on stage doing our last checks, I wander around backstage. There are several new guards and various fixtures all around. I look at one to see that it is a gargoyle statue. I shrug my shoulders as I turn and bump into a woman with long raven hair and medium dark skin.

"Excuse me, White Lioness," she states as I help her regain her balance. "My name is Detective Eliza Mazda. I’ve been assigned to add extra security to your concerts here in New York. Nearly every performer who came to the Big Apple has mysteriously disappeared."

"Anything I can do, Detective Mazda?" I ask.

"Just keep your eyes and ears opened," she replies as she makes her way to the tied up gargoyle statues.

"Sure thing, Detective Mazda," I turn to get on stage.

"It’s show time," Rahimi replies as the band starts the music.

I lower my head while the curtain rises. On either side of me, Aieo and Michael play their instruments. Jeanine plays her drums and starts the lyrics. Out of the corner of my eye I see the rest nod to each other. That simple nod is my queue to begin.

"Dodododoo. Dodododoo. Dodododoo. Ah, ah!" Jeanine sings.

Where have all the good men gone?
Where are all the gods?
Where’s the streetwise Hercules
To fight the rising odds?
Isn’t there a white knight
Upon a fiery steed?
Late at night,
I toss and I turn
And I dream of what I need!
I need a hero!
I’m holding out for a hero
‘Til the end of the night.
He’s got to be strong
And he’s got to be fast
And he’s got to be fresh from the fight!
I need a hero!
I’m holding out for a hero
‘Til the morning light!
He’s got to be sure,
And he’s got to be soon,
And he’s got to be larger than life!
Larger than life!

"Dodododoo. Dodododoo. Dodododoo. Ah, ah!" Aieo and Jeanine sing.

Somewhere after midnight
In my wildest fantasies,
Somewhere just beyond my reach
There’s someone reaching back for me!
Racing on the thunder
And rising with the heat,
It’s going to take a Superman
To sweep me off my feet!
I need a hero!
I’m holding out for a hero
‘Til the end of the night.
He’s got to be strong,
And he’s got to be fast,
And he’s got to be fresh from the fight!
I need a hero!
I’m holding out for a hero
‘Til the morning light!
He’s got to be sure,
And he’s got to be soon,
And he’s got to be larger than life!
Larger than life.
Up where the mountains
Meet the heavens above,
Out where the lightning
Splits the sea,
I could swear that
There is someone
Somewhere watching me!
Through the wind
And the chill of the rain,
And the start of the flood,
I can feel his approach
Like the fire in my blood.

"Like the fire in my blood. Like the fire in my blood. Like the fire in my blood. Ah, ah!" Aieo and Jeanine add musically.

I need a hero!
I’m holding out for a hero
‘Til the end of the night!
He’s got to be strong,
And he’s got to be fast,
And he’s got to be fresh from the fight!
I need a hero!
I’m holding on for a hero
‘Til the morning light!
He’s got to be sure,
And he’s got to be soon,
And he’s got to be larger than life!
I need a hero!
I’m holding out for a hero
‘Til the end of the night!
He’s got to be strong,
And he’s got to be fast,
And he’s got to be fresh from the fight!
I need a hero!
I’m holding on for a hero
‘Til the morning light!
He’s got to be sure,
And he’s got to be soon,
And he’s got to be larger than life!
I need a hero!
I’m holding out for a hero
‘Til the end of the night!

"Ooohoohoh! Oohooohohoo! Ooooooooo!" Aieo and Jeanine end the song.⁴

Everyone applauds at the end of each song as I smile softly. Soon the concert is over, and we help the roadies prep the stage for tomorrow night’s concert. I stretch as my tail brushes against someone lying on the floor. I turn to see a creature with wings on his back. He has white hair and red skin. Fear lies in his eyes as I quickly look around the area. I grab him quickly and pull him into an unused storage room

"Who art thou?" my musical voice asks him.

"My name is Brooklyn," he replies. "You’re not afraid of me?"

"For thee, yes. Of thee, nay. May I ask as to what thou art?" I lift an eyebrow as we hear screaming.

"Oh, no. My friends…," he starts as I rush out to see a light green creature and a large blue green creature try to escape.

I finger a pouch and let a smoke bomb fly into their mist. I rush through the smoke, grab the two by their wrists, and haul them into the same room with Brooklyn. The two cough lightly as I listen to everyone outside the storage room try to clear the smoke.

"Shh. Stay here, and I’ll be right back," I whisper.

"Where did they go?" Ryder asks.

"I saw them go that way," I point towards the stairs.

"Let’s go!" Rahimi shouts as the backstage clears completely of people. I sigh softly as I shake my head.

"I don’t like telling lies, but to save another’s life, a price hast to be made," I comment to no one in particular as I open the storage room door. "It’s all clear. Thou can come out now."

"Why are you helping us?" Brooklyn asks.

"Let’s just say that I have other friends who are physically different than me," I reply as I lead the way to the rooftop. "Those are wings, and thou can fly, right?" I ask.

"We can glide and use air currents to fly," the smaller of the three comments.

"And thy name?"

"Lexington, Miss Lioness," he answers as I shake his clawed hand.

"You’ve already met Brooklyn, and my name is Broadway," the biggest of the three supplies.

"It is a pleasure to meet thee. Are thou some form of mutants?" I ask politely.

"No, we are gargoyles," a large violet creature with black hair replies as he lands next to us.

"Lads, what be ye doin’ around here?" the elderly gargoyle asks as I note a sword at his side.

"We just wanted to listen to her concert and nearly were discovered, Hudson," Brooklyn answers shyly. "Oh, White Lioness, why are you not afraid of us?"

"I know that thou may appear strange than what would constitute as human; however, thou art flesh and blood. Thou can think, speak, and feel; therefore, thou art sentient. This makes thee worthy of the same treatment I give all those I hope to be friends with," I reply.

"Unfortunately, not all humans see it that way," the large gargoyle replies.

"There you are," Detective Mazda starts as she notices me among them.

"Thou know them, Detective?" I ask as I look at her.

"Yes, but please don’t reveal them," she pleads on their behalf.

"Me? Reveal who they are? That is inviting trouble itself. No way, I will not reveal anything about any one unless they become my enemy. I do not want enemies," I reply as I look at them.

"Goliath, she saved our lives. All she wants is our friendship. Nothing more," Brooklyn adds.

"Why should we trust you?" Goliath asks.

"What cause have I given thee NOT to trust in me?" I counter.

"The lass has a point," Hudson comments as Goliath sighs.

"Very well. We must be going," Goliath replies.

"Um, Goliath, could I stay behind, and um," Brooklyn starts.

"Yes, you may, and be careful," the leader replies as they glide off the building.

"Art thou familiar with New York, Brooklyn?" I ask as I move closer to him.

"Very familiar. Hey, do you want me to show you around New York? Give you a bird’s eye view of everything?" he asks as he holds his claw out to me.

"Yes, please," I reply as I slowly take his claw, and we dive off the building.

He opens his wings, and we soar high above the crowds. I look around in awe as his claw goes around my waist while one of my arms go around his neck. He chuckles softly as we fly around New York. He shows me all the sights. Finally, we land on the hotel room terrace, and I look towards the horizon.

"It is beautiful, is it not?" I ask him.

"Yes, it is, but full of problems," he sighs.

"No matter where one goes, there will always be problems," I reply softly.

"I have to go. I hope to see you again," Brooklyn replies as he opens his wings.

"Thank thee for the wonderful night, Brooklyn," I call out to him as he takes wing.

I slowly open the door and go inside. The other two concerts are uneventful, and I do not see Brooklyn or his friends again. Soon, we are on the road again heading towards Fission City. I stretch as we pull up to the Fission City Marriott Hotel.

"Man, do we have to play here?" Ryder asks as he waves the air pollution away from his face.

"Yes, Ryder, we have to as a promise to our fans. We have a little time before the concert needs to be set up, so we can look around here if thou want," I explain as I lead the way to our rooms.

"And what about you, She-cat?" Michael asks.

"Don’t know yet. I do know I need to get in some exercise," I comment as I pose in front of the floor to ceiling mirror.

"I say you look great," Bryan whistles.

"Nah, I need the exercise to keep looking great. Now, shoo. I need to change, and so don’t bother me," I push them out of my room and lock the door.

I quickly change into my normal street clothes and carefully climb out the terrace to the ground floor without being seen. I move silently to a nearby gym and look around to see that I am not alone in there. I choose the leg curl weight machine and start working.

A half-hour later finds me at the 75-pound punching bag. Suddenly, there is an explosion as several creatures walk into the gym. I sigh as they start taking prisoners.

"Grab that one as well," the lobster creature yells to the swordfish.

"Yeah, Dr. Paradigm wants a girl to experiment on," the swordfish hisses as he lunges for me.

"Whoa, I am out of here!" I exclaim as I rush out into the street.

I spot my route to safety. I jump and slam my foot on the edge of the manhole cover, causing it to spin in the hole opening. (Kids don’t try this at home. I just happen to know where to hit on a manhole cover. Thanks.) I land on my feet in the sewer and move away from the wobbling manhole cover. Minutes afterwards, I see the two monsters climb down after me. I run smack into a well-muscled body, and I fall backwards on my rump as I look up to see a blue and white creature with sharp teeth. I gulp nervously as he holds a hand out to me.

"You should be more careful. What are you doing down here anyway?" he asks as he pulls me to my feet.

"There she is!" the lobster shouts behind me.

"Trying to get away from them," I explain as I thumb over my shoulder.

"Seismic slam!" the white speckled on orange shark wearing football pants shouts as he clobbers the cement.

A wave of pavement ripples under our feet as I jump and twist over the great white’s head to avoid falling on top of him. The monsters behind us curse and swear as we make our way to safety. I pant heavily as I try to keep up with them.

"Hey, guys, wait up. She’s not doing too good," the striped violet and light blue shark replies as he skids to a stop on his roller blades next to me.

"Don’t know why I am out of breath all of a sudden," I pant.

"Streex, could you carry her?" the brown hammerhead shark asks.

"No problemo. Climb on behind me," he states as I hold onto his dorsal fin. I rest my head on his back as we race away from the sewers.

I wake up a little while later on a couch, and a blond college student sits near me. I sit up slightly and moan. My head spins crazily as I grip the couch to steady my world. The great white hands the student a cup who in turn holds it to my mouth.

"Here, drink this. It will take way the queasiness," he states as I take a drink and make a face.

"Oh good, she is awake," an African American woman wearing a lab coat replies as she enters the room.

"Well, what’s wrong with her?" the hammerhead asks.

"She’s pregnant, Jab," she replies softly.

"Say what?!" I jump off the couch and immediately regret it.

"Take it easy," the great white replies as he watches me.

"I can’t be pregnant," I reply weakly.

"Who’s the father?" Jab asks.

"A good for nothing drunk rapist who I hope has suffered terribly for what he did to me," I reply as tears run down my face.

"Do you love him?" the great white asks me softly.

"Ripster, if she loved him, she wouldn’t have wished him to suffer at all," Streex replies as he places a clawed hand on my shoulder.

"Good point, dude," the student replies.

"Where are our manners? My name is Doctor Lena, and this is Ripster, Jab, Big Slammu, Streex, and Bends," the woman states as she motions to the great white, hammerhead, spotted, and tiger sharks and the college student.

"You’re not from around here, huh?" Jab asks.

"Gee, what gave you that idea?" I retort as I take another sip of the foul tasting drink.

"We’re the wanted criminals known as the Street Sharks," Jab jokes as I lightly shake my head.

"Bad press, that’s all," I reply while rubbing my temples. "I have to get back home."

"What brings you to Fission City anyway?" Ripster asks me.

"Well, you know that the White Lioness is on tour here, right? I work for the band," I partially lie.

"Oh, wow. Could you get us tickets?" Bends asks.

"I don’t think so, Bends. We wouldn’t really blend in," Jab points out.

"Mmm. If memory serves, tonight’s concert is a costume concert. Then the best costume gets to have a date with one of the band," I reply as I rub my chin.

"Aw, come on. Guy in the Sky would have said something about the concert," Jab retorts.

"Don’t believe me? Turn on the radio," I retaliate.

"Fine," Jab states sourly as Streex turns on the radio.

"That’s right, folks. For the first time in the history of music concerts, the White Lioness and her band has a special prize. A date with one of them. There’s a catch though. In order to win a date, you must be at tonight’s concert. Not only that, but you have to be in the best costume. The band will judge based on originality and creativity. In other news, because of the concert, costume stores throughout the tri state area have become bare of their wares. If you don’t have a costume by now, good luck trying to get one in time for the concert," Guy keys as music comes on after he finishes his report.

"Wow. That means we can go," Streex replies.

"Won’t someone recognize you guys?" Dr. Lena asks them.

"Not if we do something about certain things," I reply.

"Like what?" Ripster asks.

"Let’s see. Add a black or a blue vest to your current ensemble and a bit of fake makeup to your eye or even an eye patch. Anything you like to change your appearance a little," I respond.

A short time later, I am dressed, ready to perform, and judge. In the front row are the Street Sharks with their 2 human friends. I smile very lightly as I let the curtain fall back into place.

"So, we’ll be ending with the "Power of One," tonight," Michael replies as I listen with one ear.

"Mmmhmm," I nod as I lean against the wall. My hands wrap around my stomach as I think of the life within me. I sigh softly as we move into our positions.

Towards the end of the concert, we invite those dressed up in costume onto the stage. First we get the crowd’s reaction to each, and then we pull those who got the best reactions out of the group. Those who didn’t make the cut got secondary prizes. I smirk softly as I recognize Ripster and Streex with the new group of finalists.

"So, what do you think, She-cat?" Michael asks in a whisper.

"Well, that shark’s costume looks like a lot of work went into making it," I reply in the same hushed tones.

"Which one?" Ryder whispers.

"Not the striped one, that’s for sure," I chuckle.

"We should change the big prize," Aieo whispers.

"Oh? To what?"

"Make it where there is a winner for each of us," Jeanine adds.

"But we would have to ask them who they want to have a date with," I reply.

"Good point. Let’s ask," Bryan replies as he grabs a microphone. "As part of the contest, you will each be asked one question. Answer it truthfully. White Lioness, will you care to do the honors?"

"I’ll get thee for this, Bri," I hiss at him under my breath.

"Not in front of everyone, and you’ll never do something to ruin your perfect image," he whispers to me as he hands the microphone to me.

"The question is simple. If thou could go on a date with anyone of the band, who would it be and why?" I ask. "I will let thee think about it for a moment. When thou art ready, just step forward."

Soon the group is divided among the seven of us. Ripster and Streex are in the group for me. Then the band rehuddles to discuss whom to pick. Personally, I have already made my choice, and I wait until after they are done discussing their choices before I clear my throat.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we have come to an enpass. What that basically means is we can not come to a final decision on 7 people. They are the blue shark, the wolf man, the fairy princess, the warrior, the mermaid, the black cat, and the demoness. Since we can not come to a conclusion," I pause for effect while the crowd sighs sadly, "we have decided to allow 7 prizes versus just one."

The crowd cheers as the seven named look at us in surprise. I move to stand next to Ripster while Michael stands next to the fairy, Bryan next to the mermaid, Ryder next to the cat, Rahimi next to the demoness, Jeanine next to the warrior, and Aieo next to the wolf. Ripster looks at me as I wink at him and smile softly.

"Now for our final song," Rahimi states as guards escort our dates to the front row.

Thou must always remember
Life can be a challenge.
Life can seem impossible.
It’s never easy
When so much is on the line.
But thou can make a difference,
With courage thou can set things right!
The gift to dream
And make dreams real
Is thine and mine!
The power of one
Begins with believing!
It starts in the heart
Then flows through the soul
And changes the world!
Image how life will be
When we stand in unity!
Each of us holds the key
To the power of one!
Each of us is chosen.
There’s a mission just for thee.
Just look inside,
And thou will be surprised
At what thou can do!
The power of one
Begins with believing!
It starts in the heart
Then flows through the soul
And changes the world!
Imagine how life will be
When we stand in unity.
Each of us holds the key
To the power of one!
Then one by one
We can make the world
A much better place!
The power of ONE
Begins with believing!
It starts in the heart
Then flows to the soul
And changes the world!
Imagine how life will be
When we stand in unity
Each of us holds the key
It’s inside of thee and me.
Each of us holds the key
To the power of one!
The power of one!⁵

After the concert, we head backstage to our dates. They each make arrangements while I lead Ripster to my dressing room. He fidgets slightly as I take off my more dresser clothes for a streetwise look. I step out from behind the blind to smile softly at him.

"Thank thee for waiting, Ripster," I reply as we make our way to his motorcycle.

"How do you know my name?" he asks as I climb behind him.

"Thy brother, Streex, carried Christal Falcon to thy hideout."

"She told," he hisses as we head to a burger joint.

"She did nothing of the sort. She kept her word. I kept my word," I hint to him as we order enough burgers to feed an army.

"Hey, you going to keep her all to yerself?" Jab asks as he sits down next to us.

"And here I was foolish enough to believe that I could get to know one at a time," I sigh while smirking a little.

"Hey, Ripster, you just got lucky," Streex replies as he chomps down a handful of burgers.

"No, he didn’t," I retort as I grab a handful for myself. "I happen to like him since he was the first one I bumped into after my workout."

"Whoa, you’re…," Jab starts as my tail snakes around his mouth.

"Hush. I don’t need that revealed," I state as I release him.

"Street Sharks! Get them and that singer," a man in a metal suit shouts to his two minions.

"Great. We can’t fight them here. People could get hurt. Follow me," I exclaim as I unsheathe my claws and deeply scratch the lobster to distract them.

"She’s right. Come on," Ripster replies as they rush behind me through the blocked door.

I smirk as I slide between the swordfish’s legs and run. Behind me, I hear Slammu lift up the metal man and toss the man over his head. I chuckle as we get out to an abandoned area of the city.

"This will do just fine," I reply as we turn to face our pursuers.

"Shark attack!" they shout in unison.

I smirk as my claws pop out of my fingertips. I fight fiercely as the sharks make quips about the enemy. I use my tail to balance as I maneuver a spin kick to the one called Paradigm. I cry out in pain as I feel an electrical shock pulse through my body.

"Surrender, Sharks, or she dies," the electric moray replies wickedly.

They look at each other then at my panting form. Luckily, my body took most of the shock, leaving my child unharmed. I am weaken by the blast and thus kneel on the ground.

"Well, Street Sharks? What’s it going to be?" Paradigm asks.

"Death before dishonor!" I shout as I throw my shurken over the moray’s head.

"You missed, girl," he comments evilly.

"Did I?" I retort as the shurken cuts through the chain that holds up over a ton of steel girders which fall directly on the moray.

"That is a good one," Streex replies as I dodge out of the way to avoid a poison dart and to grab my shurken at the same time.

"Anyone else want to try their luck?" I ask as my fist clench in rage. Sparks fly from my fists as the squid fires another poison dart. "Fine by me." I dodge the dart and raise my hand up high. "Lightning STRIKE!" I roar as I bring my hand hard down to the ground.

Suddenly the air crackles with electricity. Then streaks of lightning flash above our heads. The squid screams in pain as lightning shears through his body. The enemy flees for their lives painfully as I pant heavily. Not one bolt hits the sharks as the storm passes over head.

"Woah," they exclaim in unison.

"I need to get into a new line of work. This is just too much," I whisper as I collapse.

I wake up many hours later in a soft bed. I try to sit up, but the world spins to fast for me. I place my hand on my mouth as a garbage container is placed in front of me. I bring up what feels like my last 5 meals and dry heave. A gentle hand rubs my back as I look up with tears in my eyes.

"Easy does it," Ripster replies as he hands me some crackers and clear decarbonated soda.

"Thanks," I croak. "I think I'll quit being a singer for now."

"But why?" Streex asks as I gulp the flat soda.

"This is helping calm my queasy stomach. The reason for that, Streex, should be clear. If I am pregnant and have this type of morning sickness now, I won't be able to pull off some of the things I do to sing and perform."

"She's right, but shouldn't you tell your band why you're leaving?" Ripster asks while I cautiously nibble on a cracker.

"They can never learn the truth. If they do, they won't stop until they find those who did this to me or they are killed themselves. It is better to wish them well, and tell them that problems have risen up, and I can no longer be their leader. I had also hoped to make a difference, but I see very little of my work revealed."

"So what will you do?" Jab asks as I write a note.

"Don't know yet. I have enough money to support the baby and I for quite a while. I will have to lie low for a while until the storm from people's comments and cruel remarks has passed. In oh, say," I pause as I lightly scratch the back of my head, "in 10 to 15 years."

"That long, huh?" Jab asks.

"Afraid so," I answer sadly.

"So where will you head to?" Slammu asks as they all look at me.

"I'll head back west. I can't head east and run the risk of seeing my family. This is something I have to do on my own."

I write a quick note, hop into Rocky, and head west. I sigh wistfully as I think about the new life in my body. A single tear falls as my active imagination takes me to the hotel room after my band returns from looking for me.

"Where could she be?" Bryan exclaims in my mind's eye.

"Hey, check it out. All of her stuff is gone," Aieo replies as she looks in the closet.

"Where did she go? There's no ransom note…," Ryder ponders.

"Hey, look at what I found," Jeanine replies as she hands Michael my neatly folded note.

"Dear Michael, Bryan, Ryder, Rahimi, Aieo, Jeanine, and Calderon. I know thou guys and gals are worried about my whereabouts. Please do not be. I do not want to do this; however, a situation has arisen that I must take action now. As per the contract that each of us signed and agreed to, if one of us wishes to leave the band, he or she may do so. I need to leave the band. I do not know if, when, or where I will return to the singing industry. It is with heavy heart that I resign as leader of the band. I wish thee all well in any and all endeavors thou may take. Please try to forgive me for my actions. Sincerely, forever and always, the White Lioness," Michael reads.

"Why would she leave us?" Rahimi asks as each of the women wipe the tears from their eyes.

"She must have her reasons. We have to respect that. Maybe someday she'll return to tell us why she left," Calderon replies gruffly while wiping his own eyes. Each one nods as the scene fades to the back of my mind.

Onto Chapter 6.

¹ Stan Bush "Dare" Transformers: The Movie soundtrack

² Jackson Brown, "The Load Out," Running on Empty

³ Jackson Brown, "Stay," Running on Empty

⁴ Bonnie Tyler, "Holding Out For a Hero," Footloose soundtrack

⁵ Donna Summer "Power of One" Pokemon: the Movie 2000 soundtrack