Operation: G.A.M.E.O.V.E.R.

[SAVE_US.WBTC]

Disclaimer: I do not own KND or any of its characters. They are the property of Mr. Warburton and Curious Pictures.

Operation: G.A.M.E.O.V.E.R.

Grifty
Adults
Make
Every
Outrageously
Violent
Entertainment
Restricted

Chapter 1

Numbuh 4 awoke to the jarring sound of his alarm clock, the ringing of the ringside bell from his wrestling ring bed, and the multitude of flashing spotlights bearing down on him that he installed as part of his wrestling-arena motif. This morning brought a milestone for the tough-talking young Australian, as, for perhaps the first time since his induction into the Kids Next Door, he was the first person awake in the treehouse. The grating noises and light show he prepared the night before made him sit bolt upright in his bed, initially startled, before grogginess once again set in. As he mustered enough strength to turn off his alarm system, he tried his best to search his memory for the reason he had been crazy enough to set his clock for the ungodly hour of 8:00 AM in the first place. Wally rolled over and tried to go back to sleep, but found himself face-to-face with the calendar he had strategically placed in his bed the previous night to remind him of the day's urgent business. He saw each previous day in the month marked out with a big red X, until today, a Saturday he marked as extravagantly as possible, using brilliant colors, glow-in-the-dark pens, and even Rainbow Monkey stickers to draw his attention to the critical event. "Oh, crud, that's today? I have to get the others up and ready!" In his excitement, Numbuh 4 forgot that he needed a ladder to reach the floor of his room, and landed with a hard thud that knocked the wind out of him. After catching his breath, he blazed down the hallway, still in his pajamas, attempting to roust his teammates from their sleep.

Numbuh 4's first stop was the aircraft hangar, which also doubled as Hoagie Gilligan's room. "Hey! Numbuh 2! Wake up!" Numbuh 4's voice echoed through the massive facility as he screamed up at the airplane that Numbuh 2 used as his bed. After several minutes of yelling, Numbuh 4's voice began to wear out, as he realized he could not penetrate the soundproof cockpit. In desparation, he began grabbing spare parts and tools from Numbuh 2's various projects, and hurling them at the plane's hull. The loud clangs produced by the metal objects striking the plane seemed to create their desired effect, as the cockpit doors raised, and Numbuh 2 peered out. "Whu...what's going on?" he slurred in a slow, disoriented voice. Numbuh 4, oblivious to the fact that his teammate was awake, continued throwing tools at the plane, until a wayward wrench struck Numbuh 2 squarely in the forehead, knocking him back into the cockpit. "Numbuh 2, quit lying there and get out here," Numbuh 4 commanded. "Hurry up, there's no time to lose."
"Numbuh 4, are you crazy?" Numbuh 2 snapped, fumbling for his goggles. "What's the big idea waking me up and hitting me in the head?"
"It's today, mate! It's today!"
"What's today?" Numbuh 2 asked, annoyed. Suddenly his eyes came to rest on his own calendar, also counted down to today's date, heavily marked and given top priority. "Oh, that. That's today? Woohoo! Let's go! Where's everyone else? We hafta get going!" A rush of glee overcame Numbuh 2 to the point where he also forgot his bed was elevated, and found his way to the floor with a painful tumble. Numbuh 4 barely allowed him any time to recover before "helping" him to his feet and taking off down the corridor.
Hoagie and Wally ran from the hallway into the communal lounge and briefing area, bouncing off the furniture, kicking and chopping each other, and howling as if they were possessed. They tried to discuss the upcoming event, but neither could form a coherent sentence in their excitement.
"They...it...here...now."
"So...much...wanting...now...here."
"We...get...today."

Suddenly, a calm, yet irritated voice snapped them both back into reality.
"What are you two babbling about so early? Go back to sleep or shut up. Numbuh Five is gonna enjoy her Saturday sleep one way, or the other."
"Sleep? Today? Are you crazy?" Numbuh 4 returned. "You can't sleep in today."
"And why not?"
"Because," Numbuh 2 interjected. "Today's the day."
"Today's the day for what?" Numbuh 5 asked.
"It...it...it's today," was all Numbuh 2 could say before laughing maniacally. Numbuh 4 could only join in the laughter and repeat, "It's today, it's today."

A sweet giggle emanated from down the hall, and Numbuh 3 emerged into the room. "Yay! It's today, it's today! Wheee!" she repeated along with Numbuhs 2 and 4. Suddenly she stopped. "What's today?" Numbuh 4 leaned over and whispered the event in her ear. She instantly perked up again and joined in the excitement. Numbuh 5 could only look on as her teammates jumped around the room, referencing the mysterious event for the day.

Finally, Numbuh 1's door swung open. "Uh...good morning team?" Sector V's leader addressed his teammates, not annoyed that they had awoken him as much as astonished that, for the first time, he was the last person in the treehouse awake. In fact, in an unprecedented feat, the kids had awoken in the exact reverse order they normally followed. "It's about time you're up," Numbuh 4 told him. "Why aren't any of you dressed yet?"
"Because we just rolled out of bed, brainiac," Numbuh 5 retorted. "Besides, where are you in a hurry to get to?"
"Isn't it obvious?" Numbuh 2 asked.
"Nooo," Numbuh 1 answered. "I would like to know myself what everyone's so excited about."
"Dude, we've had it on our calendars for months," Numbuh 4 said. "Today's the day the new video games arrive at the arcade. We gotta get a move on, so we can be the first to play. Everybody, move it!"
"Hold on there," Numbuh 5 said. We ain't goin' anywhere in our PJ's. Besides, those stupid games are still gonna be there after breakfast."
"Stupid games?!" Numbuh 2 cried exasperatedly. "These are only the hottest, latest, greatest titles the game magazines have been hyping for the last month with more fiery explosions..."
"And bloodier blood!" Numbuh 4 interrupted.
"Well, Numbuh 5 is staying here until she's had something to eat."
"Numbuh 5's right," Numbuh 1 added. "Besides, the arcade doesn't even open for another two hours. Just relax, eat some breakfast, and watch some cartoons." Numbuh 1 turned on the TV to show an attractive man in an expensive suit standing in a playground. "Hello, I'm Congressman Williams," the man began. "For the last three legislative sessions, I've been proud to serve our community, with the interests of our children first and foremost in mind. I've pushed for funding for playgrounds, built recreational centers, and worked hard to let kids be kids." Congressman Williams walked over to two children on a slide. "Think of me as a superhero fighting for our kids. Who wouldn't want to vote for a superhero?" Williams opened his shirt, revealing a Superman emblem with a "W" instead of an "S" to close the announcement before the Saturday morning cartoons started.
"At least we don't have to sit through tons of commercials," Numbuh 2 remarked.
"Yeah, and at least we get to see Congressman Williams still wants to help kids," Numbuh 5 added
"People like Congressman Williams make me relieved to know that there are at least some adults on our side," Numbuh 1 agreed.
"And he's kind of cute too," Numbuh 3 said.
"No he's not," Numbuh 4 quickly objected. "He's pretty cool, but, how can you say he's...er," he trailed off before shoving a wad of bacon into his mouth.

After breakfast, the kids quickly dressed and headed to the aircraft hangar, with Numbuhs 2 and 4 constantly barking at their teammates to pick up the pace, going as far as to physically lift up and toss anyone they felt was lagging into the aircraft (except for Numbuh 5, who threatened to break the arms of anyone who touched her). Numbuh 2 dove into the pilot's seat and thrust the ship into full gear, nearly tossing everyone to the rear as he had not allowed them ample time to find and fasten their seatbelts. As the plane zigzagged across the sky, Numbuh 4 relayed in the air all the moves he would soon perform with the buttons and joysticks on his much-anticipated fighting game.
"I'm tellin' ya, I'm absolutely going to rule at 'Crimson Slayer Blade City Bedlam,'" he declared. "I'm ready to blast alien terrorists out of the skies in "Interplanetary War of the Apocalypse Day III," Numbuh 2 commented, making machine-gun noises and leaning forward on the ship's controls, taking it into a frighteningly steep nose-dive. "And I'm going to play the coolest game of all," Numbuh 3 announced. "Rainbow Monkey Happy Go Cutesy Smilequest!" At this, Numbuhs 2 and 4 doubled over in laughter. "Well, at least I won't have to worry about you holding up the lines at the good games," Numbuh 4 remarked, pulling a gigantic battle axe from under his seat. "Whoa, these Crimson Slayer replica weapons get more realistic every time!" As he recklessly swung the axe around the room, he began to boast, "Any of you, or any cruddy teenager thinks they're gonna beat me, well, they can just Kiss My Axe!" At this moment, Numbuh 3 produced a second axe from under her seat. "Hey, where did this authentic Crimson Slayer replica axe come from?"
"If that's the replica, than what am I doing with..."
Suddenly, the head of Numbuh 4's "toy" flew off the handle, and wedged into Numbuh 1's seat, just above his head.
"Uh, guys," he said nervously, "I know you're excited about the new games and all, but remember to keep your eyes and ears open today. Adult tyranny can rear its head any time, anywhere."
"Don't worry, Numbuh 1," Numbuh 4 replied. "No adult would be so low as to mess with kids at the arcade. Numbuh 2, can't you fly this thing any faster?" he impatiently asked of the pilot.
"Well, I could put her in Light Speed."
"No, Light Speed is too slow. Go right to Ludicrous Speed (ed: Just as the real show gives us Star Wars references, I'll give you a Spaceballs reference).
"No, we are not going to Ludicrous Speed, we are staying at our normal speed," Numbuh 1 commanded. "And Numbuh 2, can't you at least make an effort to fly this thing straight?"
"Sorry, Numbuh 1. I need to practice all the skills I have for my game today. Barrel roll!" The passengers braced as the ship careened through the sky and approached the local arcade.

As Sector V disembarked from their aircraft, a daunting sight greeted them. "Oh, man, what a line!" Numbuh 2 moaned, acknowledging the line that ran out the door and snaked around the corner of the building. "I told you we should have gone to Ludicrous Speed!" Numbuh 4 said. "Pipe down guys," said Numbuh 5. It's not like you won't get to play these games at all today."
After what seemed like an eternity, the kids finally found themselves at the front of the line. "Step aside," Numbuh 4 ordered, cracking his knuckles. "I'll show you how a true pro plays...RAINBOW MONKEY HAPPY GO CUTESY SMILEQUEST?!" "Yay!" Numbuh 3 screamed jubilantly. "We finally get to play the greatest game ever!" "Oh, crud, you've got to be kidding me," Wally cried exasperated. "I've been standing in line all this time for THAT? Where are the real games?"
"Over there, in that back room," Numbuh 1 pointed out. "I see some really cool stuff back there. And look, the room's practically empty."
"Well, all right!" Numbuh 4 shouted, leading the charge towards the holy chamber of video mayhem. Just as they reached the doorway leading to the new games, a large, burly young man stepped in front of them, impeding their path. "Where do you kids think you're going?" he inquired intently.
"We were going to play the hot new games, so if you'll excuse us," Wally answered.
"I'm afraid not," the man retorted. "The arcade has a new policy that requires young children to only play age-appropriate games. The games in that room contain explicit violence unsuitable for anyone under the age of 17. The games in this room contain violent content unsuitable for anyone under 13. The games you children can play are out here in this front room." The man ushered the kids back to the room by the entrance, containing only the new Rainbow Monkey game (where Numbuh 3 was still intently glued to the joystick) and two others of its kind. "If you want to play any games here, you must abide by our ratings system." As the man turned to leave, an outraged Numbuh 4 immediately bolted back toward the restricted rooms. "Nobody keeps Numbuh 4 away from a Crimson Slayer game! I'm playing Blade City Bedlam one way or the other!" He charged the man directly, intending to blitz over or through him. However, the man was able to overpower him and force him back to the age-appropriate section. "A frontal attack won't work here," Numbuh 1 advised, "but we won't give up. Kids Next Door...Battle Stations!"
The team attempted several points of entry on the forbidden room, from climbing through outside windows to sneaking through the rows of arcade machines, to rappelling in through the ceiling. Each time, however, they were greeted by the arcade attendant, who placed them directly back into the underequipped kiddie game room. After several fruitless attempts, Numbuh 1 called a retreat. "Everyone back to the ship now!" he ordered. "But I'm about to get the high score on Rainbow Monkey Happy Go..." protested Numbuh 3, who, during the entire scenario, played her turn at the new console. "NOW!" the rest of the team simultaneously bellowed.
Back at the ship, Numbuh 1 stated, "Well, team, adult tyranny has surfaced here today. We need a new plan."
"Way ahead of you," Numbuh 2 replied, consulting a GPS device. "Let's see, the next closest arcade is two towns over. At Ludicrous Speed, we should get there at about..."
"Negative," Numbuh 1 interrupted. "We do not put our enjoyment of video games ahead of our responsibilities as Kids Next Door operatives. Adults have struck a blow against all kids today with this ridiculous new policy. We will not flee to the next arcade, which could meet with a similar fate at any time. Today, we stand and fight!"

-Transmission Interrupted

*whew*, that was a long-ass Chapter 1, but I wanted to put a plot derivative and villain in there, as well as some comedy at the beginning. So what do you all think. Read and review, flames are acceptable.

-I know my game titles suck, but it was the best I could come up with, and it would just seem weird having actual game titles in the KND universe.

[SAVE_US.WBTC]

Chapter 2

The team approached the restricted section and confronted the attendant again. "I've told you before," the man said, "Either you can stay in the designated gaming space for your age, or I'll have to ask you to leave."
"We're not here to play games anymore," Numbuh 1 countered. "We demand to speak with your manager. Where is he?"
"Hey, look!" said Numbuh 5. "That door behind the counter must be his office." "Hey, you can't go barging into..." the man started, but the team had already marched over to the office door, kicked it open, and confronted the arcade's owner, sitting nervously behind his desk. Numbuhs 2 through 5 flanked their leader as he addressed the problem at hand. "Sir, we, as members of the Kids Next Door, are outraged by your arcade's policy of keeping children under 13 from playing any game that contains even the slightest amount of comic violence. We demand that you overturn this policy before we are forced to take drastic measures."
The owner sat frozen in his chair under the hard stares of the Sector V operatives. Finally, he uttered in a timid voice, "I...I can't. We need this rule here."
"Why?" Numbuh 5 asked.
"Because, children need to be protected."
"Protected from what?" Numbuh 4 pressed. "I've been playing these violent games my whole life, and they haven't turned me into a killer or anything. I see way worse in TV, movies, and comics, not to mention the games I already own. And it's not like I won't think about these things if I never play video games."
"I'm sorry, but our age enforcement must stand," the owner said. "Terry, please remove these kids from the premises."
"You got it, sir," said the young man, who had by this time materialized in the doorway. Terry grabbed the kids by their shirt collars and brusquely escorted them out the door. "Stay away from the arcade unless you agree to stay in your designated age-appropriate section," he ordered.

The kids sat dejectedly in the doorway of their aircraft. "Man, this stinks," Numbuh 4 complained. "All I wanted to do was bust some heads and take some names, and now some cruddy adults think I shouldn't be allowed to do that?"
"What's the big deal? I don't even like these violent games," Numbuh 3 said.
"It's not about violent games, it's about adults trampling on the basic rights of children," Numbuh 1 replied. "Numbuh 135 predicted this day would come, and here we are, and he's not around to do anything about it."
"Who are you talking about?" Numbuh 2 asked. "I never heard of Numbuh 135."
"He was a great operative in the early and mid 90's. His specialty was fighting adult control over kids' favorite TV shows and movies. For years, he warned that adults would try to keep kids from playing video games with any sort of violence. He even argued before Kids Next Door Global Command for the formation of a special sector dedicated to protecting video games from adult tyranny. Unfortunately, nobody believed the adults would ever go to such lengths, and his vision never came to be."
"Whoa, sounds like I'd like this guy," Numbuh 4 said admiringly. "Where is he now?"
"Like all good things, his run in the Kids Next Door came to an end. He was decommissioned I believe in 1996. According to reports from those at the ceremony, he was extremely upset that nobody believed his warnings on video game restrictions. More sad than angry. He accepted his decommissioning, but closed by saying, 'If we don't act today, the next decade's gamers won't have a tomorrow.' His final words as a Kids Next Door operative. There have been several attempts to locate and recommission him as several cities and states tried to pass laws to outlaw the sales of video games to children, but so far, our efforts have been unsuccessful. Now it's up to us to preserve kids' rights to blow up zombies and put battle axes into ninjas' brains."
The rest of Sector V sat in awe of the legendary operative, some tearing as they heard of his failed dream. Finally, Numbuh 4 sprang to his feet. "Let's defeat these creeps, for Numbuh 135! You got a plan, Numbuh 1?" "I actually do," Nigel replied. "I think we could use a little help on this one."

Numbuh 2 guided the aircraft into the heart of the city's municipal district, and the team entered the city hall. They navigated the maze of departments and offices of public figures, until they came upon the secretary of their target. "Can I help you?" she inquired.
"We are here to speak with Congressman Williams," Numbuh 1 declared. Where is he?"
"Do you have an appointment?" the secretary pressed.
"No, but our business is urgent."
"I'm sorry, but we do not allow anyone, especially unsupervised children, to see the Congressman without an appointment."
"Listen, lady, this is urgent Kids Next Door business. I could easily call for reinforcements to come and book you in a pleasant stay in our Arctic prison."
"Well, I could easily call security and have you removed from the premises. How do you like that?"
Suddenly, Congressman Williams appeared in the corridor and asked, "Is there a problem here?"
"We have urgent business that jeopardizes the freedom of all children," Numbuh 1 stated.
"These children were trying to force their way into your office without an appointment," the secretary countered.
"It's alright, Mary Lou. I'm always happy to meet with my constituents, especially those I care most about," Congressman Williams said, looking down at the kids with a warm smile. "Come into my office and tell me what's troubling you." As the kids entered the office and sat down, Numbuh 1 began, "Congressman Williams, the city's arcade is trampling on the basic rights of every kid in town. They recently implemented a new policy forcing children to play only games that contain no violent themes at all. We ask that you order the arcade to reverse their policy immediately."
"How can I do that?" Congressman Williams asked.
Numbuh 5 pulled out a large book, donned a pair of reading glasses, and began, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people to peaceably assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances."
"That is the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. By enforcing this policy, the arcade is impeding the right to free speech of children by keeping them from viewing an expressive medium."
"How do we know these video games actually constitute speech?" Congressman Williams asked.
"It has been proven in legal precedent," Numbuh 5 continued, thumbing through the pages in the legal tome. "The cases of American Amusement Machine Association v. Kendrick, Interactive Digital Software Association v. St. Louis County, and Video Software Dealers Association v. Maleng have all ruled that video games contain ideas and messages that constitute speech."
"And by restricting children from playing these games," Numbuh 1 added, "they are violating the First Amendment. You, as a lawmaker, have the power to force the arcade to respect the Constitution."
Congressman Williams smiled. "I'm sorry kids, there's nothing I can do. You see, the First Amendment begins, 'Congress shall make no law...' It merely restricts government from infringing on free speech. The arcade is voluntarily restricting chidrens' access to games. This is an individual act, and with no coersion from the government, cannot be considered a violation of the First Amendment."
Numbuh 4 flew into a rage. "Cruddy adults! Always trying to ruin a kid's fun! Let's go back there and give that arcade worker what he's got comin'!"
"Hey, not all adults are bad," Congressman Williams interrupted. "Some really do have your best interests at heart. Some really want you to have fun, happy lives. Some want to be like superheroes to you."
"I guess your right," Numbuh 4 said, calming down. "The Kids Next Door are aware of your commitment to helping kids, and are really grateful. You have always shown that some adults really do want to let kids be kids."
"We have to go now," Numbuh 1 said. "Thanks for trying to help us."
"Don't mention it," answered Congressman Williams. "And remember, if there's anything else I can ever do for you, remember my policy is always children first!"

As the team left the building, Numbuh 2 said, "Well, I guess it's back to the arcade, and time to put the squeeze to that arcade owner." "Actually, I don't think he's the real enemy," Numbuh 1 objected. "I looked into his eyes, and he looked scared. Yet he remained firm in his commitment to the age policy. I sense that he's being manipulated. Someone wants this rule to stick."
"I bet it's that jerk who works for him," Numbuh 4 declared. "We have to hit him with all we got!"
"We don't know that yet, Numbuh 4," Numbuh 1 countered. We should search the supervillain database and see who would have a vendetta against the arcade to make them do something like that."
Suddenly, three men in dark suits and sunglasses approached the kids, and closed in a circle around them. "We're gonna make sure none of you interferes with that policy," one of the men began. "Our boss said to keep you meddling Kids Next Door out of trouble and away from those graphically violent games." As the men backed the team into the wall, a mysterious figure in a Crimson Slayer costume dropped out of the sky behind their assailants. He quickly knocked two of their heads together, knocking them unconscious. The third man charged at him, but the superhero imitator sidestepped the attack, grabbed the man's arm, and spun him into the wall. "Hey, who are you?" Numbuh 3 asked, but their savior quickly vaulted over a fence, and disappeared into the mist as the sun set in the distance.
"Who were those guys?" Numbuh 5 asked.
"And why did the Crimson Slayer suddenly show up and rescue us?" Numbuh 2 added.
"That obviously wasn't the real Crimson Slayer, since he doesn't actually exist," said Numbuh 1. "But whoever he is, he knows something important. If he ever shows up again, we need to get a hold of him." The team boarded their aircraft and set a course back to the treehouse.

-Transmission interrupted.

Editors note: Who is the Crimson Slayer? I made him up. He's supposed to be an anti-Rainbow Monkey, a comic book/video game character whose media contains over-the-top, almost Tarantino-like violence, and would be a character Numbuh 4 would like. As for what he looks like, basically picture a poor man's Spawn, only with a red costume, black around the eyes, and a black cape. He also carries around an oversized axe, with his catchphrase, "Kiss my axe!" before he puts it into his enemies. He is the star of several Mortal Kombat-like games that Numbuh 4 is obsessed with.

A certain event was supposed to happen today that got postponed that was meant to coincide with the release of this chapter. In fact, I had hoped to unveil Chapter 1 against its backdrop, but it's taking too long. That event got postponed again today (Tako might know what I'm talking about, or anyone else who lives in Illinois). I can't say what that event is right now, as it might reveal major spoilers. I will explain it once the game-hating mastermind of my story is revealed.

So, how do you like it so far?

[dragonmasterhawk]

I'd like to read this, but it would really, really help me out if you put two spaces in-between paragraphs instead of just one. If you have Word, it's really easy to do; just go to Find/Replace, use the "Special Characters" tap to find carriage returns or whatever they're called, then replace them with two of the same.

[dragonmasterhawk]

Okay, I finished reading it.

First off, good job with spelling and grammar, although there are a few instances where you don't start a new paragraph when someone new begins speaking.

I'm feeling kinda half'n'half about this. I like the idea, but I'm not so sure about its execution. There are a few points of major OOCness, like:

"I guess your right," Numbuh 4 said, calming down. "The Kids Next Door are aware of your commitment to helping kids, and are really grateful. You have always shown that some adults really do want to let kids be kids."

Actually, now that I think about it, it's the second chapter I have the most problems with. Since when would the KND go to an adult for help, especially this early in the game? For that matter, it seems fishy that all five adore this same adult on TV. We know Nigel is vehemently against all adults (although the events of KNOT should be considered). But that's not really the big issue.

The big issue is the major amount of soapboxing this fanfic seems to be doing.

"Protected from what?" Numbuh 4 pressed. "I've been playing these violent games my whole life, and they haven't turned me into a killer or anything. I see way worse in TV, movies, and comics, not to mention the games I already own. And it's not like I won't think about these things if I never play video games."

That might have been fine...had Abby not started quoting the First Ammendment or Court Cases.

Love the idea of the Crimson Slayer, though. I'm a tad disappointed you gave us a physical description OUTSIDE the story, but not INSIDE, where it really matters.

Last, references are great, but don't TELL us when you're referencing something. Half the fun is when the reader comes across a reference and says to himself, "Hey! I know where that's from!" When there's a parenthetical remark just after it saying, "This is a reference to _____," it kinda kills the effect.

I think this fic has a lot of potential, but it needs a bit more ICness and subtlety.

[SAVE_US.WBTC]

Chapter 3

Upon docking back at the treehouse, Sector V immediately set to work researching the potential culprits behind the arcade's restrictions. Numbuh 1 turned on the main computer console, and browsed through the different files until he reached the villain database. He began to scroll down the list of dossiers he and his team compiled from each of their battles since joining the Kids Next Door.

"I'm telling you guys, this is a big waste of time," Numbuh 4 whined impatiently. "We know that guy who works at the arcade has something to do with this policy. Let's bring him in, and I can give him a first-class interrogation, Numbuh 4 style."
"Remember how badly we did against him trying to get into the arcade?" Numbuh 5 reminded him, "Well, attempting to capture and detain him ain't gonna be much easier."
"Besides," Numbuh 1 added, "this is standard Kids Next Door procedure to explore all alternative options before we make our move. If we capture nothing more than a pawn, the mastermind behind the plan could simply replace him with another, and another, keeping us going in circles, and never undoing the adults' treachery."
"Still, this is going to take a lot of time," Numbuh 2 observed. "How many files have we got in that database? We're gonna have to investigate 40 different villains. That could take weeks."
"Don't worry, Numbuh 2," Nigel replied. "I know a little shortcut. We can eliminate right off anyone who doesn't have the will to regulate video games." He pulled up a file to demonstrate his point. "For example, Stickybeard only cares about stealing kids' candy. He doesn't have much of a stake in keeping them from playing video games." He struck a large red X through Stickybeard's file, indicating he has been eliminated as a potential suspect."
"Speaking of candy-crazy villains," Numbuh 5 added, "it's pretty safe to say Heinrich von Marzipan isn't behind this, either."
"And Knightbrace only wants to scrub our teeth," Numbuh 2 offered.
"King Sandy just wants to marry me," Numbuh 3 chimed in.
"And the Common Cold just tries to make everyone sick," Numbuh 4 said.
Each of the kids mentioned how previous enemies would not have thought to prevent kids from playing violent video games, exonerating them from investigation.
"That Mr. Mogul just tries to hurt those poor Rainbow Monkeys!"
"If Count Spankulot didn't want kids playing certain video games, he'd just spank the ones who did end up playing them."
"The Soccer Mom only cares about winning soccer games."
"Robin Food just tried to steal my lunch. And Grandma Stuffum only cares that we eat tons of her food."
"The Proper Patrol just tries to make us dress differently."
"All Rupert Puttkin tried to do was beat me at mini golf."
"Mr. Fizz is probably too busy trying to keep kids from drinking soda."
"The Crazy Old Cat Lady mainly keeps to herself. If it was her, we would have at least seen one cat in the arcade."

One by one, the kids' enemies were stricken from the list, until only a small pool remained.

"We should check out Cree," Numbuh 5 suggested. "I wouldn't put it past her to try something this low."
"I doubt it," Numbuh 1 countered. "Remember, there were two levels of regulation. Some games were suitable only for teens 13 and over, and others were only suitable for people 17 and older. The teens wouldn't restrict themselves from playing the games. We can also take Chad off the list as a potential suspect. In fact, we can eliminate anyone still on the list under 17." With this newfound revelation, the kids were also able to strike President Jimmy McGarfield, Laura Lumpkin, and Big Brother from their suspect list, further narrowing their focus. When these villains were all eliminated, Numbuh 1 began again.

"Let's see, here's the Toilenator..."
Upon hearing his name, the other four kids burst out in laughter.
"You honestly think the Toilenator could pull off something this huge?" asked Numbuh 2.
"As if he could intimidate the arcade owner!" Numbuh 3 giggled. "He couldn't even intimidate Mushi!"
"Fine, I'll take him off," Numbuh 1 continued, stifling laughter himself. Once everybody had calmed down, they searched through their remaining suspects.
"Father is one we must look at closely," Numbuh 1 stated. "He has been leading the charge for adult tyranny for as long as anyone can remember. He's also evil and soulless enough to enforce adult tyranny at an arcade. The Delightful Children from Down the Lane may be doing his dirty work here. They could possibly have something on the arcade owner."
"I thought you said it would have to be someone over 17," Numbuh 3 commented.
"The Delightful Children don't think like other kids or teens," Numbuh 1 answered. "They would never enter an arcade personally, so they wouldn't have any qualms about turning other kids away either. Other suspects include Mr. Wink and Mr. Fibb. Time and again, they have kept kids away from their favorite activities, from extending adult swim hours to every waking moment to destroying playgrounds with their super chair. To them, an arcade would be a nuisance and a threat." Numbuh 1 opened the next file. "Mr. Boss has repeatedly tried to purchase the land for the arcade to tear it down and build new office buildings for his corporation. This policy could be an attempt to turn away business and force the owner to sell the arcade to him. Finally, we have the Parent Teacher Organization Of Eradicating Youngsters. They have complained that video games have encouraged violence among children and led to lower grades. They are prime candidates to force an arcade to adopt an age-appropriate policy. We have to interrogate each of these sources, and determine who is responsible. We can put the arcade attendant on the list as well. If none of our other leads produces anything, we will move against him as our top suspect. In the meantime, we have work to do. And I say it's easiest to work our way from the bottom up."

The Parent Teacher Organization of Eradicating Youth sat gathered in the basement of Gallagher Elementary. "So, we're agreed," the Principal was saying, "Heavier textbooks, more homework, and shorter recesses will improve childrens' academic performance."
"We don't know that," Midwestern Mom retorted.
"Maybe not, but hey, we're not the ones having to do all that work," the Terrible Tutor remarked, evoking laughter from all five members. At that moment, the team burst through the door and confronted their adversaries.
"At least I'm not gonna fail P.E.," Numbuh 4 remarked as he floored Mad Dad with a flying kick.
"Wheee, you can't catch me!" Numbuh 3 called happily, dodging Heli-Teacher's attacks. Her erratic movements caused the teacher to lose control of her flying device, sending her crashing to the ground.
The Terrible Tutor sent a flurry of books hurling Numbuh 2's way. Hoagie, however, was able to duck behind a nearby bookshelf. As the Tutor peered over the shelf to investigate, Numbuh 2 sprang up again, driving a book over his adversary's head. "About time I started hitting the books!" Numbuh 2 declared, eliciting a smirk from Numbuh 5. "Or, in this case, the books hit you!"
"You should have quit while you were ahead!" Numbuh 5 said to him as she tripped a charging Midwestern Mom, who shook the entire building as she landed. "The bigger they are, the harder they fall."
"And the smaller they are," Numbuh 1 exclaimed, tossing the Principal onto the heap of defeated opponents, "the farther they fly." P.T.O.O.E.Y. looked up to see the angry operatives glowering down at them. "Now then," Numbuh 1 began, "Tell me what you know about the arcade's age policy."
"We support it wholeheartedly," the Principal announced. "Young children should not be exposed to graphic violence!"
"So that's why you forced the arcade to turn kids away from the new games!"
"No, we didn't. We only support it. We didn't even know about it until it took effect. We didn't have anything to do with its implementation."
"They're telling the truth," Numbuh 5 stated. "Besides, when was the last time these jokers did anything that really threatened us?"
"I guess you're right," Numbuh 1 admitted. "That eliminates them as suspects. On to our next target."
"Thanks for the warm-up," Numbuh 4 called mockingly to his downed foes as he exited the basement.

The team crash-landed on the lawn of their next targets. As their afterburners scorched the perfectly-trimmed grass, two faces peered out the window, bearing calm anger.
"Those Kids Next Door have no respect for our property, Mr. Wink."
"Let's point out the damage they've done, Mr. Fibb."
The curtains drew once again, and the kids braced for battle. Suddenly, a gaping hole blew through the front of the house. When the smoke cleared, Wink and Fibb were seated atop an enormous armored device with enough lasers and missiles to start World War III.
"These children will not escape this time, Mr. Wink," droned the man with walrus tusks.
"Of course they won't," added his bison-featured companion in a similar monotonous voice.
Mr. Wink pushed a button on the arm of the couch that topped the instrument of destruction. "Kids Next Door...Battle Stations!" yelled Numbuh 1 as the iron beast fired in all directions. The team scrambled to avoid the myriad bullets, laser beams, and warheads that the device hurled at them. The operatives attempted to fire back, but their weapons merely bounced off the reinforced armor, without creating even a scratch. Numbuh 1 finally signalled his team to launch a multi-stage attack to disarm their adversaries. Numbuh 3 lept out from the bushes, evading the firepower that Wink and Fibb sent her way. When the two villains finally could focus their weapons on her, a small model airplane dove down on them, piloted by Numbuh 2. As Wink and Fibb struggled to find their quick, agile targets once again, Numbuhs 1 and 4 jumped down from two nearby trees, and descended on them. Numbuh 5, meanwhile, used her sneaky, silent skills to creep around to the back of the machine, expose the rear panel, and disconnect the circuits that powered the robotic leviathan. As Wink and Fibb's latest super chair shut down, Numbuhs 1 and 4 tossed them from the control seat and landed hard on their sternums.
"Now then," Numbuh 4 pressed, "Arcade! Violent games! We can't play! Talk!"
"What do you mean?" Mr. Fibb asked, gasping under Wally's hard stare and even harder foot in his bread basket.
"We mean, you have two seconds to prove you aren't keeping kids away from the good video games," clarified Numbuh 1.
"We didn't touch your games...yet," answered Mr. Wink. "Mr. Fibb and myself would have paid your arcade a little visit later this week."
"What makes you think we should believe you?" snarled Numbuh 4.
"Because," Numbuh 5 interrupted, "With these guys, the sword is mightier than the pen. They would have used the chair, not an age policy. Their M.O. is to destroy everything a kid loves, like they do to the playgrounds. They would have taken all the games with them, not just the violent ones."
"You make some good points," Numbuh 1 admitted as he stood up and dusted himself off. "You have been eliminated as suspects," he told Wink and Fibb, "But let this serve as a reminder to you what would happen should you cross the Kids Next Door again."
"And just to be sure," Numbuh 2 added, flying his plane into the super chair via the exposed panel, "We should take your toys away!" Numbuh 2 pushed a button on his remote, detonating a massive explosion that obliterated the chair.

The team's escape pods crashed directly through the ceiling of Mr. Boss' mansion, in the middle of his great hall. As the protective barrels peeled away, Sector V looked up to see their target standing at the top of the stairs.
"So, you brats want a fight?" Mr. Boss taunted. "I'll be happy to oblige. Just you, me, and my GUARDS!"
Immediately, the corrupt Tasty Taste Ice Cream Men stormed into the room from every door in the massive hall, and Mr. Boss took off up the stairs. The power-hungry CEO kept his distance on the upper level, as the Kids Next Door battled his minions below. Despite outfighting the ice cream men easily, the kids could not make their way through the massive crowd to reach Mr. Boss.
"Numbuh 3! Try to get to him! We'll take care of the ice cream men!" Numbuh 1 shouted to Kuki, who had managed to reach the railing of the stairwell.
Numbuh 3 was able to mantle over the railing and began to ascend the stairs, when one of the ice cream lackeys grabbed her leg and began to drag her back down. "It's no use!" she cried. "I...can't...hold on!"
Numbuh 5 quickly schemed to motivate her teammate. Finally, she realized what would light a fire under Numbuh 3. "Pretend he's holding all the world's Rainbow Monkeys hostage up there!" she yelled.
Numbuh 3's eyes instantly went red, and, after landing a powerful mule kick to the henchman's jaw, she tore up the stairs, knocking over several ice cream men who had appeared from the upper level, and charged Mr. Boss with intense fury. The heavyset man became so surprised at this unbridled rage that he hurled himself over the railing, spilling onto the main floor below. The rest of the team immediately descended on him, and forced him to order off his cronies.
"We know you want the land for the arcade," Numbuh 1 stated, "And that you'd do anything to acquire it."
"It's like I've said before," Mr. Boss answered, "Video arcades are the biggest waste of real estate around. If I had my way, I'd have them all razed and replaced with decent, adult-oriented places of business."
"That's why you're trying to keep kids out," Numbuh 1 continued, "To drive down business."
"Are you kidding?" Mr. Boss answered. "That would take way too long. If I was going to take over the arcade, I could've had the bulldozers knock it down at any time. I'm a man of action."
Suddenly, a new revelation entered Numbuh 2's mind. "If it was Mr. Boss, wouldn't he have sent the ice cream men after us downtown? Those suits didn't look like anyone he has on his payroll."
Numbuh 1 considered this observation and replied, "It looks like he's in the clear now. We'll have to try our last options." The team boarded their airship and set out for their final, most daunting suspects.

"Remember team," Numbuh 1 briefed his charges, "Father and the Delightful Children will have the most sneaky, underhanded tactics up their sleeves. Always expect the unexpected with them."
The team's rocket crashed through the window, landing in the middle of a large office. The Kids Next Door deboarded the aircraft to find the Delightful Children From Down The Lane sitting at a desk, poring over their extra homework.
"Well, well well," they chanted in unison. "What do you Kids Next Dorks have to amuse us with today?"
"Cut the chit-chat," Numbuh 1 ordered. "Why is the arcade keeping kids from playing the best games?"
"Because those games you consider 'the best' have graphic violence and possibly explicit sexual content," the Delightful Children replied. "We hate that sort of thing, and are happy the arcade is doing something about it."
"The arcade wouldn't have done squat if you hadn't scared the owner into enacting a policy," Numbuh 5 retorted.
"Oh, no, not us," the Delightful Children declared. "This policy goes far beyond anything we could fathom. Someone far more powerful must be pulling the strings. Now that you're here, though, we could always spend a quick study break kicking your butt."
The Delightful Children reached for a sword that lay on their desk, but Numbuh 4 had snuck up behind them and dumped a large wastebasket over their heads.
"What is the meaning of this? Let us out!" the Delightful Children commanded. Numbuh 4, however, whistled happily as he rolled the basket over to the open doorway and sent it bouncing down the stairs.
"Nice going, Mr. Strategy," Numbuh 5 remarked. "We were just about to get those Delightful Chumps to sing."
Suddenly, the kids heard applause at the front of the room. A large chair swung around revealing their greatest enemy.
"Bravo," Father said. "I believe you were inquiring about the arcade's new age policy. I'd be happy to tell you all I know!" With that, he hurled a fireball towards the team, sending them scattering behind desks and quickly returning fire. Unlike Wink and Fibb's weaponry, which had to reload and refocus, Father spread a perfect blanket of flame across the room, not allowning any operative to emerge and take him on.
"Come out, come out, wherever you are!" Father taunted. "Remember wooden desks are flammable. You can't hide forever!"
Suddenly, Numbuh 2 appeared to launch up from behind his hiding spot with the aid of a jetpack. He began to circle Father overhead, who spent his efforts attempting to bring Hoagie down. His flames eventually caught Numbuh 2's leg, and quickly shot up his body. He crashed into a chandelier, bringing the massive structure down on Father, trapping him underneath it. The rest of the kids immediately ran out, weeping for their fallen comrade.
"I'm sending you straight to hell," Numbuh 4 snarled at Father, "And the game did not make me do it!"
A familiar voice emanated from behind a bench, and Numbuh 2 stepped out from his original hiding spot. "Whoa, that inflatable flying decoy really worked! I'll have some made for all of you soon."
After the relief and joy set in that Numbuh 2 was alive and well, the team turned back to their foe, still trapped in the rings of the chandelier. "Now then," Numbuh 1 said triumphantly, "You said you would answer our questions about the arcade's policy."
Father let out a sly laugh. "You want the truth? The truth is, it wasn't me! All I know is, the policy's in effect, and it's keeping you snot-nosed kids miserable! I love it, and hope it continues forever!"
"We're calling your bluff," Numbuh 4 declared. "We're bringing you in, and as soon as the arcade owner sees you're gone, the policy will disappear too!"
"Fools," Father retorted, "How many times have I broken out of your silly kiddie prisons? Maybe this time I'll humor you and stay in for a week or even a month. I need a vacation anyway. You can take me in today, but the policy will still be there tomorrow. And the day after that. And the day after that. You know it as well as I do."
"Okay, let him go," Numbuh 1 ordered, frustrated. "He's not our man this time, and he's right. We can't hold him, and bringing him to one of our top secret bases could mean disaster if he escaped." The kids slowly backed away and out the door, never taking their eyes from Father.

The kids walked down the street disappointed. "Man, we've explored everyone," Numbuh 5 said, "And we just come up empty-handed. Something just ain't adding up."
"I'll tell ya what it is," Numbuh 4 interjected. "We missed the biggest suspect all along. It's that arcade worker. We gotta move on him now!"
"You're probably right," Numbuh 1 answered. "But we need a plan first."
Out of nowhere, five of the mysterious men in suits surrounded the kids and reached for them. "I told you to leave the policy alone!" the apparent leader growled.
"Kids Next Door...Battle Stations!" Numbuh 1 yelled. "We have to take these guys down! They'll lead us to the mastermind!"
The kids attempted to fight off and subdue their attackers, but the mysterious men proved too fast and strong to neutralize. Within seconds, the kids were taken off their feet and thrown into a pile on the ground. The leader produced a small club from his jacket and brandished it menacingly. "Here's what we do with brats who don't obey the rules," he threatened.
Suddenly the kids looked up to see the Crimson Slayer impersonator on a nearby rooftop. With inhuman agility and stamina, he lept from the building to the floor, and kicked one of the assailants unconscious. Another charged him, but he produced a large Crimson Slayer axe, fell backwards, and tossed the attacker over the handle. He tossed the axe into the air, cutting support beams off a nearby overhang, forcing the structure to collapse onto the remaining three men. The man who fell over the axe quickly rousted the others, and dragged their unconscious teammate into the shadows. The vigilante helped the kids to his feet before gathering up his axe.
"Wait, we must speak to..." Numbuh 5 began, but the superhero jumped back onto the roof and disappeared over the other side.

-Transmission Interrupted.

-Thanks to DragonMasterHawk for reviewing what I have so far. I hope you and everybody else likes this chapter and the rest of my story, to come soon.

[SAVE_US.WBTC]

Chapter 4

The team returned to their aircraft and arrived back at the treehouse. As the kids walked down the hall to the main room, Numbuh 4 slammed his fist into the wall in frustration.

"These last two days just stunk!" he yelled. "Yesterday, we get banned from the best games to hit the arcade in months, and today we spent the whole day looking at files on our computer, battling enemies for no apparent reason, and running around in circles, coming no closer to stopping the policy and its enforcer. And all this time, I haven't played a single game. I guess I'll have to go to my cruddy old games." He picked up the joystick to the game console on the floor, and started through his old Crimson Slayer game, which he had beaten time and again before. The rest of the team huddled together, and sought the next step.

"So, what options do we have left?" Numbuh 5 inquired.
"We have exhausted our list of potential suspects based on previous encounters," Numbuh 1 stated. "The person or persons behind this policy are obviously someone we are not familiar with. We must adjust our strategy to accomodate a new enemy. Unfortunately, we were unable to detain any of the men who attacked us. They obviously did not want us to interfere with the policy, and work directly for whoever is behind it. We were also unable to question whoever it is who keeps saving us, and has an interest in stopping the policy himself. Our best option right now is to take in that arcade worker. He's the one who is actively enforcing the rule, so he must know who is directing it, or may even be the driving force behind it, as Numbuh 4 suspects. Tomorrow, as he arrives for work, we ambush him and take him to Kids Next Door Arctic Prison for questioning."
"Are you crazy?" Numbuh 3 blurted out. "That guy scares me. He's stronger than the five of us combined!"
"And, he's fanatical about enforcing that rule," Numbuh 5 added. "He'll die before he lets a kid put a quarter into a restricted machine."
"You're right," Numbuh 1 responded, "This may be the toughest opponent we have encountered yet. We need every bit of 2x4 technology in the armory, and I'll contact Moonbase Command to inquire about possible reinforcements."
Suddenly, they heard a cry of anguish from the couch. The team turned to find Numbuh 4 entering his initials into the high score slot, but as he turned, his face showed no satisfaction with his accomplishment.
"How many times have I beaten that stupid game? I'm stuck here killing the same enemies, using the same axe combos, battling the same lame drug lord, because some dork won't let me face the new challenges!"
"Relax, Numbuh 4," Numbuh 3 assured him. "We'll get this guy tomorrow."
"If I have to wait that long, you might as well put an axe in my brain!"
"Uh, I think Numbuh 4 and I will go on a little reconnaisance mission to prepare for tomorrow," Numbuh 2 declared. He grabbed Numbuh 4's arm, and led him back down the corridor towards the hangar.

As Numbuh 4 strapped into his seat, he turned towards his partner. "I say we should go all the way and get this guy now," he proclaimed. "What kind of mission do you have in mind anyway?"
"I was thinking of a little morale booster," Numbuh 2 grinned. "Something to remind us of what we're fighting for." He marked out a course for two towns away, and thrust the ship into Ludicrous Speed.

As they passed City Hall, Numbuh 4 looked down to see a maintenance crew erecting a gigantic video screen in front of the building. "What's going on down there?" he asked.
"Congressman Williams is making some big speech tomorrow for his reelection campaign," Numbuh 2 answered. "He's going to show how he's worked for us kids for the last six years, and what he wants to do for us for the next two."
"Man, I wish he could do something about that policy. I like all he's done for us so far, but that would make him a real superhero."
"I know, I know. Unfortunately, sometimes even superheroes can't save everyone all the time. That's when us Kids Next Door have to step up." The airship exited the city limits and headed off towards their destination.

"What are we doing in this cruddy place?" Numbuh 4 looked up at the dingy building before him. "This is the dirt arcade. No self-respecting gamer comes here!"
"It'll have to do," Numbuh 2 replied. They have the same games that the arcade back home does, and as far as I know, no policy to keep kids away from the violent ones. We'd better hurry up. There are only a few hours before the place closes, and it's bound to be jammed."
Sure enough, when the two boys entered the building, they looked out over a sea of people, many of them kids their own age. Through much elbowing and finagling, they were able to reach their destined target of Crimson Slayer Blade City Bedlam. Numbuh 2 reached the first control, but as Numbuh 4 approached the second, another boy cross-checked him from behind, nearly knocking him to the ground.
"Hey, why don't you try that again, kid?" Numbuh 4 barked furiously.
"Back off," the boy replied. "I'm playing this game tonight."
"You have no idea what I had to go through to play this," Numbuh 4 said. "Besides, you wouldn't know the characters' axes from their..."
"Alright, alright, you can have my spot," Numbuh 2 told his comrade. Numbuh 4 quickly slipped into Hoagie's spot and, after two rounds, dispatched his challenger.
"How do you like that?" Numbuh 4 smirked. "Anyone else want to Kiss My Axe?"
Suddenly, another boy pulled the vanquished foe from his place at the console, and inserted another quarter. Numbuh 4 also defeated him easily, including a perfect round. Kid after kid grabbed hungrily at the second spot, but none could match Wally's skill. "Whoa, you guys must really enjoy me kicking your butts," he addressed the mob who fought for the joysticks.
"Really," Numbuh 2 mulled. "I know this is a great game and all, but why is everyone so grabby?"
"Didn't you hear?" Wally's first opponent called to him. "Tomorrow, the arcade is implementing a new 'age-appropriate' policy. We won't be able to play these games because they're too violent."
"Oh, no," Numbuh 4 moaned from the console. "Not this place, too."
"It seems lots of places are trying out this rule," another boy stated. "I hear that by the end of this week, every arcade in the Tri-County area will enforce an age policy, and it may spread throughout the state by the end of the month."
"Time is running out," Numbuh 2 gasped. "We gotta get moving. Other arcades might still be open after this one! Tomorrow may be the last day for us, but tonight we have the ultimate video game bender!"

Numbuhs 2 and 4 spend much of the night hopping from arcade to arcade at Ludicrous Speed, taking in every game they possibly could before each establishment's closing time. Fueled by one last rush of graphic, gory content, the two operatives ensured that they had their fill of guns, axes, fire, missiles, and bare-hand brawling and mayhem. When the last arcade closed, they staggered out of the building bleary-eyed and barely able to stand. "You sure you can fly tonight?" Numbuh 4 slurred.
"Yeah, I just gotta find my keys," Numbuh 2 replied, dropping them on the ground. He looked up to see no less than ten dark-suited men surrounding him and Numbuh 4.
"I thought I told you to stay away from those games," one of the men said sharply. "Now you, and every other game-loving kid will pay!"
Numbuhs 2 and 4 sprang into their fighting stances, but several hours plastered in front of video screens did not help their coordination and alertness. A few sharp blows to the head and stomach snapped them back into reality, but by then it was too late. The men gazed down at them through their dark sunglasses, and the boys prepared for the absolute worst.
Suddenly, a small hatchet fell down from above, missing its human targets, but knocking over a stack of crates that floored three of the men. The remaining goons turned around to see the Crimson Slayer standing behind them. Two charged him, but he was able to overpower them, and, grabbing one in each hand, threw them back onto their comrades. The Slayer then produced his trademark battle axe, with the moonlight reflecting over the stainless steel. At the sight of this ungodly weapon, the men fled like frightened rabbits down the street.
Numbuh 4 sprang to his feet. "You!" he shouted. "You stay there. We need to ask you something." The Crimson Slayer, however, vaulted back onto the rooftop, and began hopping from building to building. "Oh no you don't!" Numbuh 4 exclaimed. "Not this time!" He began taking off alongside the Slayer on the ground below.
"Stay on him!" Numbuh 2 shouted as Wally and the Slayer ran side by side down the road. Finally, the Slayer ran out of rooftop space, and Numbuh 4 began the climb up the side of the building. The Slayer suddenly reversed directions, and Numbuh 4 managed to swing onto an overhang and mantle up onto the roof alongside him. Just as the Slayer was about to disappear once again, Numbuh 2 swerved the ship right in front of his path, throwing him off balance. The vigilante hero turned once again and came face to face with Numbuh 4's S.P.L.A.N.K.E.R. He tumbled off the roof and landed in a heap on the ground below.
Numbuh 2 brought the ship down to the ground before leaping out and checking the man's pulse. "He's alive," he said. But we'd better get him back to the treehouse before he wakes up."

Back at the treehouse, the mysterious costumed figure sat bound in a chair. "Nice work, guys," Numbuh 1 commended his teammates. "Your reconnaisance mission has truly paid off."
"Uh, yeah. Thanks," Numbuhs 2 and 4 said simultaneously, hoping that their teammates would continue to believe they indeed set out on a serious mission.
"It's time to see who's side everybody is on," Numbuh 1 said. "Solving this mystery will hopefully take down the others." He reached for the Crimson Slayer's mask. When its wearer's face was exposed, Sector V let out a simultaneous gasp of amazement.

-Transmission Interrupted.

[SAVE_US.WBTC]

Chapter 5

The team stood in amazement as they stared at their secret savior.

"I can't believe it's him!" Numbuh 2 whispered.
"How could he pull it off?" Numbuh 5 mused.
"Why was he doing it?" Numbuh 3 wondered.
"He obviously wants to see the age restrictions eliminated," Numbuh 1 observed. "But why?"
"I...I don't know," Numbuh 4 stammered. "But...of all people...him. I can't believe it...it's...it's...that guy from the arcade!"

Sure enough, the entity who battled the minions of the shadowy figure behind the arcade's age policy was the man who enforced that very policy with an iron fist since its implementation. The Kids Next Door gazed in shock, dumbfounded that they had captured the next day's target prematurely, and, while they regarded him as an enemy, he had inexplicably moonlighted as an ally. The man groaned and turned his head.

"Hey, guys! He's coming to!" Numbuh 5 pointed out.
The arcade worker opened his eyes and stared at his captors. "Whu...what's going on? Where am I? Hey, I know you kids. You tried to get past me and play the violent games!"
Numbuh 4 immediately sprang into the man's lap and stared straight into his eyes. "Alright, bub, listen up! I want answers, and I want 'em now! What are you doing in that Crimson Slayer costume? You got some sort of trick going on with your little Slayer gig, don't you? Who are those guys who keep attacking us, and why do you show up every time they do? They work for you, don't they?"
"Take it easy, kid. I'm on your side," the arcade attendant said defensively. "The name's Terry. I hate this age policy every bit as much as you, and am doing all I can to stop it."
"A likely story!" Numbuh 4 retorted unconvinced. "You give us the boot every time we enter the arcade, and you have your boss scared to death. Why should we believe you?"
"It's not me who's behind it," Terry replied. "I'm just forced to play along."
"Tell me something," Numbuh 1 inquired. "You're an adult. What do you have against this policy. You can still play these games, and so can other adults. Why do you care what happens to us kids?"
"I don't remember much from my childhood," Terry began, "But I do remember that when I was your age, my happiest memories were spent at that arcade. I spent so much time and money at those games, challenging my friends. And the best times were with the most violent games. We had never seen anything like it before! We had something the adults would never show us, something we loved while they loathed. Every time we hacked up a warrior or blew an enemy base back to the Stone Age, we got this incredible rush that we had our own crazy fantasies that were all ours. We heard our parents complain about the 'horrible violence' in the games we liked, but we didn't care. We had something that the adults couldn't take away from us. Or so I thought. I got a job at the arcade because I still loved playing video games, and I loved seeing kids' faces as they pump quarters into the machine, and feel what I felt back then. When I have to chase kids away from the games that give them that rush, I feel absolutely sick, and want to be anyware else and do anything else but work there."

The kids listened intently to Terry's story, still suspicious, but also moved by his apparent sincerity. Finally, Numbuh 5 continued the interrogation. "So, if you hate this policy so badly," Abby questioned, "Why do you act so crazy trying to keep it in place?"
"I have no other choice," Terry admitted. "They say they're watching us. They are adamant that we follow the policy flawlessly. They tell us that if anything goes wrong, and we let any kids get through, they will have the arcade shut down."
"And who exactly are they?" Numbuh 1 pressed.
"I don't know. All I know is, the person behind it comes to the arcade every week. My boss pays him a hefty sum of money. Some sort of protection to keep the arcade running."
"Who is this guy?"
"I don't know, I've never seen him. The only ones I ever see are those guys in the suits. They take me out of the building, and their leader comes in through another door. It's always just him, his henchmen, and my boss in the room. I swear, I never see anything else."
"When will this man arrive again?"
"He's going to come first thing tomorrow to check on the enforcement of the restrictions, and collect his money. I'll try to see if I can get a glimpse of him."
"We'll take care of that," Numbuh 1 assured him. "We are the Kids Next Door. It's our duty to take on adult tyranny such as this."
"Kids Next Door? Where have I heard that before?" Terry mulled. "Anyway, I'm glad to see someone cares about kids' rights. After all, if we don't act today, the next decade's gamer's won't have a tomorrow."

The team gasped upon hearing Terry's words. Numbuhs 2-5 switched their glances between the arcade worker and their leader.
"Isn't that what he said?" Numbuh 3 asked.
"It is," Numbuh 2 shot back. "Is that..."
"It is," Numbuh 1 said in amazement. "That's Numbuh 135." He turned back to the former operative. "Terry, I will make this simple. You were once part of the Kids Next Door, a global organization dedicated to battling adult tyranny. You were known as Numbuh 135, and were the greatest at maintaining kids' rights to play whatever video games they wanted before you were decommissioned at the age of 13. We do not have the time or resources to recommission you, but we can provide you with basic knowledge of 2x4 technology so you can aid us in our quest." He handed Terry the standard-issue Kids Next Door weapon. "This is a S.P.L.A.N.K.E.R. It works by..."
"Hmm, it looks like you press this," Terry said, holding the weapon up to his face. His fingers found the release switch; unfortunately, he was holding the S.P.L.A.N.K.E.R. the wrong way, and it struck him squarely in the nose. "Ow! Of all the stupid, lousy..."
The kids reloaded the weapon, and placed it back in his hand the right way. "Now, be sure to hold that away from your body," Numbuh 1 instructed him. However, Terry again hit the release switch, once again injuring himself with his own weapon, this time striking himself in the wrist. As he hopped around in pain, the kids looked at each other both in amusement and worry.
"Maybe we should recommission him," Numbuh 3 observed.
"We don't even know where that recommissioning device is," Numbuh 5 said. "Or even if it truly does exist."
"He certainly hasn't lost his fighting spirit," Numbuh 2 said, "But his skills could use some brushing up."
When Terry had finally calmed down, Numbuh 1 said to him, "We appreciate your help, but you can leave the fighting to us."
"What do you mean?" Terry responded. "I can master this like nothing."
Just then, the S.P.L.A.N.K.E.R. released yet again, striking Terry in the face and the wrist before falling down his pants. Everyone heard the final snap, and the muscular arcade worker folded like a lawn chair on the floor. "Numbuh 1's right," Numbuh 4 told the gasping Terry. "Let the current operatives handle this."

The next day, the team headed over to the arcade to carry out their plan. They remained in the under-13 section, pretending to be enthralled with the Rainbow Monkey games. They looked over to Terry, situated across the building at the 17+ section, and he gave them a confirming wink. As the arcade's owner emerged from his office and entered the restroom, Numbuh 4 made a mad dash for the mature section. "Oh no you don't!" Terry yelled. "Stay in your section!" Terry chased Wally around the arcade, as the other four operatives used the opportunity to sneak into the owner's office. When Terry finally caught up with Numbuh 4, he led him into the office to join his teammates. The kids cowered in supply closets and closed the doors not a moment too soon, before the owner returned with the dark-suited men, who shoved Terry out the door. The team waited until they heard a door open on the other side of the room, and observed an expensive pair of shoes stop in front of the closet.

"Do you have my money?" the smooth voice asked.
"Right here," the arcade owner responded quickly.
"Just keep it coming."
"Yes, sir. Please keep our arcade open."
"That all depends on how committed you are. Keep the cash flowing, and I'll remember you as a friend."
"Absolutely, sir. Thank you for being so understanding."
"You also have another end of the bargain to hold up. How are you doing keeping the kiddies away from those horrible violent games?"
"So far, they haven't even touched them. Terry's the best at enforcing that policy."
"Good. Keep it that way. We don't want you corrupting children with those games. If you do, I'm closing you down so fast, it'll make your head spin."
The owner of the new voice turned and exited from where he came, and the footsteps of his henchmen followed. When the arcade owner also left the office again, the kids spilled out onto the floor, and quickly bolted back out into the arcade, where Terry was waiting.
"What are you kids doing out here?" he bellowed loudly. You know this is a restricted section. 13 and over only. Come with me, I'll take you to your age-appropriate level." Terry escorted the kids out of the building, where they quickly boarded the aircraft and flew back to the treehouse.

"Did you see the guy?" Numbuh 4 asked Terry.
"Nah, the suits made me go right back to my post."
"All I could see was the wall," Numbuh 5 said.
"It was too dark for me to see anything," Numbuh 3 added. "Numbuh 1, did you see anything?"
"Just their feet," Numbuh 1 said disappointedly. "We lost out again."
"Not quite," Numbuh 2 piped up. "Hey, guys, remember the fly that came into the treehouse that one day?"
"Sure I do," Numbuh 3 giggled. "Numbuh 4 got stuck in the wall trying to catch it!"
"Yeah, well, what's your point?" Numbuh 4 asked quickly, trying to divert attention away from that embarrassing moment.
"That wasn't any ordinary fly. That was a surveillance device the Delightful Children used to spy on us."
"Aw, crud. I knew I should've squashed it!"
"What does that have to do with us?" Numbuh 5 asked.
"I found out how they built it, and came up with my own:

Kids Next Door F.L.I.O.N.A.W.A.L.L.

Flying Little Interloper Observes Neatly All Workings And Low-profile Locales

I put this little guy in the room to be our eyes. Let's see what he gave us."

Hoagie placed the microchip from the fly into the computer. Indeed, the fly recorded the meeting and its participants in crystal-clear quality. As the culprit turned his face directly into the camera, Terry and the kids sat frozen with disgust, hatred, and disbelief.

-Transmission Interrupted

[SAVE_US.WBTC]

Chapter 6

"Sir, those kids from yesterday are back," a voice sounded over the intercom. "I told them you were...excuse me...you can't go in..." the snap from a S.P.L.A.N.K.E.R. cut the speaker short. The office door swung open, and Congressman Williams looked up to see the Kids Next Door standing in the doorway.

"Hello, kids," the Congressman said cheerfully. "How can I come to your rescue today?"
"You can can the superhero nonsense and call off the age restrictions at the arcades," Numbuh 2 snapped angrily.
"I told you before," Congressman Williams replied. "The arcades adopted a voluntary restriction system. I have nothing to do with it."
"Voluntary my foot!" Numbuh 4 shot back. "We saw you at our arcade yesterday, taking money from the owner and threatening to close the place down if he doesn't keep the rule in place perfectly."
"And we have recorded proof," Numbuh 1 added. "Don't try to lie your way out of this one. We, as members of the Kids Next Door, order you to reverse your policy, or we will take drastic measures."
"You order me?" Congressman Williams echoed indignantly. "You brats can't tell a U.S. Representative what to do."
"Actually, we can," Numbuh 5 cut in. "As an elected official, you are accountable to the voters."
"Since you're under 18, you can't vote," Congressman Williams replied mockingly. "Besides, I am catering to the voters. I made it a priority to work towards improving the lives of their children. And one of the ways I am going to do that is to protect them from the graphic violence found in today's video games."
"Where have I heard that before?" Numbuh 1 asked. "Spend some time walking around the arcade, rather than just dropping into the office to accept your kickbacks. See the excited faces on the kids you care so much about. See how their eyes light up when they wield the power of their characters, how they assert themselves, how they have a culture of their own. Then tell me these kids need to be 'protected' from playing these games."
"What I have seen," Williams remarked, "are dozens of studies that show that violent video games cause violent behavior. That in itself tells me to keep kids away from these harmful influences."
"Those studies don't tell us anything," Numbuh 5 countered. "Most don't even show that the games cause violent behavior, but that there is just a correlation between the two. Second, those studies are completely unrealistic. They are conducted in a laboratory situation. Who plays video games in a laboratory while being watched by men in white coats? Third, they don't even measure violence. Just stupid behavior like hitting dolls or popping balloons. Finally, people in the study feel like they have to act in a certain way, that they have to act 'aggressively,' to show the researcher is right. We have people doing silly little things in a flawed, biased setting, scientists are labeling that 'aggression,' and people like you use it to justify restricting kids from playing video games. That method has more holes than Swiss cheese. You have no proof that video games cause violence."
"The electorate doesn't know that," Congressman Williams replied smugly.
"You mean, you don't really care about helping kids?" Numbuh 3 asked.
"Sometimes I have moments where I think of the children. But in the end, it all comes down to what the voters think of you. Right now, I'm in the middle of a reelection campaign, and I'm running on a platform that kids come first. It wouldn't look too good if I say kids can play video games with harmful violence now, would it? I have an image I have to convey to my constituents, and showing how video games are harmful to our children, and that I am willing to protect them from that harm is part of that image."
"You no-good, double-talking..." muttered Numbuh 4 as he approached Williams' desk.
"If you'll excuse me," Congressman Williams interrupted, "I have a speech I have to make shortly, and I have to go out for lunch first."
"Well, I happen to deliver," Numbuh 4 declared, "And it looks like you ordered a knuckle sandwich."
As Numbuh 4 advanced on the politician, Numbuh 1 noticed that Williams' face was eerily calm. He mulled Congressman Williams' words, and the exchange he and his team had with their enemy. Nigel mulled why Williams would maintain a confident smile in the face of a painful beating from Numbuh 4 and detainment in the Kids Next Door Arctic Prison. Finally, he remembered Numbuh 5's last words: "You have no proof that video games cause violence." Suddenly, the revelation hit him straight in the face. "NUMBUH 4, STAND DOWN!" he screamed, forcing Wally to freeze in his tracks.

"What's the big idea?" Numbuh 4 asked, astonished. "I was just about to pound the policy out of him."
"That's exactly what he wants," Numbuh 1 declared.
"So, I say, let's give it to him. Look at him. He's literally begging for a butt-kicking. He should have a few scars when he goes out to make his speech."
"If you lay a hand on him, you'll just prove him right. He can use your attack to say that video games cause violence, and justify the arcade's age policy."
"Or worse," Congressman Williams chimed in. He rummaged through his desk before producing a piece of paper. "I hold in my hand a bill I could possibly introduce next legislative session once I am reelected. This bill would make the age policy the arcade has now an official law. I gave the arcades a chance to restrict kids from that violent trash voluntarily, and if they fail, I could pass this through Congress, and the arcade owners can be prosecuted criminally. If one of you even touches me, I'll definitely put this on the House floor, where it will absolutely become law once my colleagues learn how I was accosted by several hooligan children who were corrupted by video games. As you can see, the pen is mightier than the...whatever it is you kids got there." Sector V marched out of Congressman Williams' office deflated, dragging a red-faced Numbuh 4 with them.

In the lobby of the building, Terry stood waiting. "How did it go?" he inquired eagerly.
"No dice," Numbuh 1 responded. "Williams is untouchable. I can't believe I'm saying this, but, it appears this is a battle the Kids Next Door can't win."
"There has to be a way," Terry mused.
"If we move to kick his butt," Numbuh 5 said, "Those games are banned to kids under law."
"Face it, Williams dropped the big one. We're done for," added Numbuh 2.
"I can't believe you're saying this," Terry cried. "You are the only ones who could stop this and save our games!"
"No we can't," Numbuh 3 shot back. "That stupid congressguy got us good! He's just going to turn all the adults against the games so we'll never play them again, right?"
"Wrong!" Terry declared, as Sector V stood and stared. "I've ruled that arcade for 12 years now, and it belongs to you kids! It's there for your fun, for your happiness, for your escape from reality. That place was everything to me when I was your age, and I'm not going to let it be taken away from those who deserve it most. If we can't overcome this, I'm not showing up to work there and chase kids away from their games ever again! But instead of it coming to that, I say we find a way to bring this joker down!"
"He's right," Numbuh 4 exclaimed, springing to his feet, once more recharged. "This is my arcade, and no lousy congressman is going to tell me what I can and can't play there. "Adults have taken away candy, toys, and soda before, but when they take away my video games, they go too bloody far! The Kids Next Door never accept defeat, and we're not going to start here, with the worst case of adult tyranny we've ever faced. Congressman Williams' reign is over! Who's with me?"
The team let out a cheer, before falling silent once again. "But how do we get to him?" Numbuh 2 asked. "You heard what he said. If we attack him to take him to Kids Next Door Arctic Prison, he'll use that as an excuse to ban our games."
"That may be so," Numbuh 1 smirked. "So I guess he'll have to go to a real prison."

The team burst back into Congressman Williams' office with renewed vigor. "You were right," Numbuh 1 addressed their foe. "Not all adults are bad. We did find one who is willing to fight to let kids be kids." The team parted to let Terry through, and he walked directly up to the congressman, until they stared face to face.
"You're not going to fool me with your act," the arcade worker stated. "I know about your little deals. If you think you can buy this district's votes, think again. You won't get mine, and once I tell everyone about your platform, your landslide victories will be a thing of the past."
"Go ahead and try it," Congressman Williams challenged. "The problem with people in your position is, you don't vote. I got this district locked up. People here love me, and I'm not going anywhere until I decide to retire. First, I think, I'll move to the Senate, and then perhaps..." Congressman Williams did not finish his sentence, instead opting to hum the first few bars of "Hail to the Chief." When he finished, he turned back to the kids. "I have to prepare for my speech. I'll let my staff show you the way out."
Several of Congressman Williams' lackeys emerged from the door, and moved toward the kids. Terry, however, diverted their attention, and fought them off as Williams fled out the hall, with the Kids Next Door pursuing close behind. The dark-suited goons dragged Terry out of Williams' office, and threw him out the front door of the building. Terry quickly crawled over to the podium, removed one tape from a VCR beneath the cabinet, and inserted another tiny device. He pulled out a communicator and contacted the team. "It worked," he whispered into the transmitter.
"He's in," Numbuh 2 announced to his teammates, who had backed Congressman Williams into a corner.
"Give yourself up!" Numbuh 1 demanded. "Your campaign will never work!"
Congressman Williams snapped his fingers, and four more henchmen appeared out of the dark hallways, surrounding the team. Numbuhs 1, 2, 3, and 5 each battled one of the men, while Numbuh 4 took off after Congressman Williams up a spiral staircase. As they reached the roof, Wally shouted, "It's over, Williams! I got you now!"
"Touch me, and your games are gone forever!" Congressman Williams retorted. "Anyway, I'm late for my little engagement. Don't worry, I'm sure you'll grow to like Rainbow Monkey video games in no time." With that, he grabbed onto a nearby cable, and swung down to the podium to the thunderous applause of the massive crowd that had gathered to hear his speech.
"Now that's a super entrance," Congressman Williams smiled. "Fellow Americans and beloved constituents, it has been my honor to serve you and your children for three legislative sessions, and I look forward to continuing for a fourth. I'd like to present a little video to remind you what I've been busy doing during my time in office, and what you can continue to expect of me."
Congressman Williams heard a furious scream from overhead, and he looked up to see Numbuh 4 swinging down the cable, with his foot bearing down on him. As Wally landed, however, he missed Williams' head, instead hitting a button beside the his target.
"You missed me, you little brat," Congressman Williams whispered to Numbuh 4, turning away from the crowd.
"Wasn't aiming for ya," Numbuh 4 returned.
The button triggered the curtain behind Williams to rise, exposing the large video screen. On cue, Numbuh 2 pressed a button on his own remote-control device to activate the video. However, instead of the planned photo ops and sound bytes Williams had created for the occasion, the crowd was met with the footage gathered from the F.L.I.O.N.A.W.A.L.L. that showed him accenpting money from the terrified arcade owner. The crowd gasped in horror as they watched their beloved elected official engage in blackmail, bribery, and extortion.
"Um...er...I did this for our children," Congressman Williams addressed the crowd, tugging at his shirt collar. "I did this because the video games these arcades exhibit contain graphic violence not suitable for young children. That is why, next session, I plan to introduce a bill that will criminalize the distribution of video games containing explicit violence..." Congressman Williams gradually raised the volume of his voice, struggling to be heard over the increasing amount of booing and insults heard from the crowd."
"Liar!"
"Thief!"
"Crook!"
"Charlatan!"
Several police officers approached the stage, and notified Congressman Williams of his arrest for his indiscretions. The rest of Sector V joined Numbuh 4 onstage as they waved goodbye to the Congressman, as he was led in handcuffs into a police car. The team located Terry, who had by then melted into the crowd, as he gave them a triumphant nod of approval.

At Kids Next Door Moonbase Command, Sector V stood in front of their fellow operatives, as Numbuh 362 extolled their efforts.
"These five operatives went above and beyond the call of duty in battling one of the harshest forms of adult tyranny. Thanks to their efforts, Congressman Williams has been forced to vacate his public office, was exposed not only as an oppressor of children, but a common criminal, and the age policies of arcades throughout Sector V's area have been reversed. The Kids Next Door wish to bestow upon you the highest honor an operative can receive!" After Numbuhs 1-5 received their medals, Numbuh 362 continued, "There is one operative in particular who has demonstrated extreme commitment to the cause of the Kids Next Door, and the triumph of kids' rights in a certain realm. Would Numbuh 4 please step forward." As Wally approached the podium, the KND supreme leader declared, "Numbuh 4 has shown immense dedication to a kid's right to free access to any and all video games. He has a passion for gaming that few could match. This passion is perfect for a new post that is to be created in light of these recent events. Long ago, the great operative Numbuh 135 called for a division of the Kids Next Door dedicated to preserving kids' rights to play video games, protect our arcades, and monitor those who would interfere with that right. Today, we make his dream a reality. Numbuh 4, I want you to head up a new, elite branch of the Kids Next Door: the Video Game Protection Unit."
As the crowd erupted in applause, Numbuh 4 turned to his soon-to-be former teammates. "That's quite an honor," Numbuh 1 remarked.
"This post requires long hours and tedious work, here at Moonbase Command," Numbuh 362 announced.
"Well, I'm glad we got to serve with you during the time we did," Numbuh 1 said.
"Try not to get overworked, OK?" Numbuh 5 told Numbuh 4, ruffling his hair.
"This post is extremely important, and requires a great leader," Numbuh 362 continued.
Numbuh 4 turned next to Numbuh 2. "I'll miss those games of Crimson Slayer Bloodfest," Numbuh 2 said. "Without you, there's no challenge."
"Don't worry," Numbuh 4 assured him. "I'm sure I'll get to come back and visit sometimes."
"I wouldn't count on it," Numbuh 362 countered. "With the work you'll be doing heading up the Protection Unit, you may only get one chance a year to even play a video game yourself."
"Well, at least I'll try to beat your high score then," Numbuh 2 said.
Numbuh 4 grinned weakly. "That's never gonna happen. My score will stand forever."
He finally turned to Numbuh 3. He stood for what seemed like an eternity thinking of his final words to her, but could only stand silent. Finally, she whispered, "I'll really miss you, Wally."
"Uh, yeah, me too," was all he could say as he approached the podium.
"Fellow operatives," Numbuh 4 began. "It is a great honor to accept this new position. I will do everything I can to make sure we can all play the best video games on the market. I will take on this tough new job because I care that we can all play the games we love, even if I can't anymore. I will make myself work harder than ever, with the best the Kids Next Door has to offer...." As he looked out over the crowd, he scanned his old teammates one last time. "I know we will...never give up...because...I will make sure...I will be the best...oh crud, I just can't do this. I'm sorry, Numbuh 362, but I have to turn your offer down. You have the wrong guy to lead a squadron. I always thought I wanted to be a leader, and that I could do it. I found myself in that position a few times before, and every time I did, it was a complete disaster. I just made a huge mess out of everything, and the rest of my team had to clean it up. With something as important as the Video Game Protection Unit, I can't risk something like that happening. You need someone who actually knows what he's doing. Also, I don't mind giving up my free time for the Kids Next Door. I can work hard. I can make sacrifices. One thing I can't do, however, is abandon my team. Those four are the best friends I ever had, and I can't just walk out on them. I need them, and we know how to battle adult tyranny our own way. We'll take on anyone who tries to take our video games away, and we'll do it Sector V style."
Numbuh 362 took the podium back. "I understand," she said. "I will find someone else who will lead our new Video Game Protection Unit to battle."
As Numbuh 4 rejoined his teammates, Numbuh 1 said, "Thanks for your decision. We need you too. You may make mistakes sometimes, but we don't mind cleaning them up."
"Don't worry," Numbuh 4 assured him. "You'll be cleaning up my messes for a long, long time."
"Uh...thanks?"
The assembled crowd gave one last cheer to Sector V as they boarded their rocketship and headed back to their treehouse to continue the fight against game-hating adults and other villains who would dare cross their paths.

-End transmission

Editor's notes: So that's why it was so important that the KND trust Congressman Williams. If any doubt was cast on him, the ending would probably be way too obvious.

-I created this fanfic in response to the multitude of real-life bills that have cropped up around the country trying to ban minors' access to certain video games. Most do go after sales of console games rather than arcades, though (the policy was based on an ordinance the City of Indianapolis passed in 2000, that was overturned in the case of American Amusement Machine Association v. Kendrick).

-I tried to get Chapter 1 up the day the Governor of Illinois signed into law a bill that would prevent minors from buying games with "explicit violence." However, instead, I put it up the day Hillary Clinton proposed such a bill at the federal level. Chapter 2 coincided with Governor Blagojevich signing his bill.

-So who was Congressman Williams based on? He was Rod Blagojevich. He was Joe Lieberman. He was Hillary Clinton. He was Joe Baca, Ken Messerle, Sam Brownback, Bob Dole, Mary Lou Dickerson (notice his secretary's name?), and anyone else who tried to censor video games past or present. He was also based on several non-political advocates like Brent Bozell, David Walsh, Daphne White, and Jack Thompson. In short, he is an amalgamation of all censor monkeys past and present who represent this facet of "adult tyranny."

-Is Williams a Republican or Democrat? As Mr. Warburton would say, Nooobody knows. Because game restriction is not a partisan issue, and people from both parties rail against the industry, I deliberatiely avoided giving Congressman Williams affiliation in one party or the other.

I hope you guys liked this story. I have a few more ideas where I can bring back the now-Former Congressman Williams. I'd like to hear your feedback, though. Please read and review this story. Thanks.

[numbuheightbitstar]

hakewari said:

Very dumb fanfiction you have, why do you even bother writing fanfiction for a show that doesn't even make sense?

KND makes perfect sense. What are you talking about?

Or is your mind another factor in the "Drainage Ratio"? ^__^

Also, don't be jealous just because others are more popular than you. It's really sad. Actually, it's kinda funny, but still.