superhero fetish story

[lukecat]

chapter 1

The neon glow of Horizon City flickered in the distance, its sprawling skyline standing as a monument to both progress and corruption. Rain drummed against the rooftops, cascading down the steel and glass structures like a symphony of whispered threats. Aikan Li, better known as the vigilante Topaz Tiger, staggered to one knee atop a dimly lit parking complex. His breathing was ragged, his ribs aching from the repeated blows delivered by the brute known as Black Serpent.

 

Black Serpent stood before him, a smirk playing at his lips. “You put up a fight, I’ll give you that,” he drawled, his voice as smooth as the poison he trafficked through the city’s underbelly. His coiled whip, pulsing with a sickly green energy, crackled as he prepared the finishing strike. “But heroes who don’t know when to quit? They tend to end up dead.”

 

Aikan tried to rise, but his limbs betrayed him, heavy with exhaustion. His mind screamed at him to move, to do anything, but he knew he was moments away from defeat.

Then, a gust of wind. A shadow cutting through the rain. A streak of white descended from the heavens.

White Hawk.

 

A flash of silver talons sliced through the air, intercepting Black Serpent’s whip before it could land. The villain recoiled, cursing, as White Hawk delivered a precise, brutal kick to his chest, sending him skidding backward. The caped figure landed gracefully beside Aikan, his pristine white costume untouched by the storm. Even through his haze of pain, Aikan could see the sharp contours of the white Mexican mask that concealed his rescuer’s identity.

 

“Looks like you could use some help,” White Hawk said, his voice low and composed.

 

Aikan gritted his teeth. “I had him right where I wanted him.”

 

White Hawk chuckled. “Of course you did.”

 

Without waiting for permission, White Hawk grabbed Aikan and took off into the sky, the city blurring beneath them. Aikan felt a pang of humiliation but lacked the strength to resist. The world faded in and out of focus, the only constant sensation being the firm grip of his mysterious saviour.

 

---

When Aikan awoke, he was lying on a plush leather chaise lounge, the warm scent of cedarwood and expensive cologne lingering in the air. The dim lighting accentuated the grandeur of the space—polished marble floors, gold accents, and velvet curtains draped across towering windows. A grand chandelier cast a soft glow over a sprawling fireplace, where embers crackled in the hearth. It was a mansion—one befitting a figure of power and influence.

 

His gaze landed on White Hawk, who stood near an ornate bar, pouring himself a drink. His costume was gone, replaced with an extravagant velvet Dolce & Gabbana robe that draped over his broad frame. The only remnant of his heroic persona was the white Mexican mask, which still concealed his features.

“You’re awake,” White Hawk remarked, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. “You took quite a beating back there.”

 

Aikan groaned as he tried to sit up, but a sharp pain in his side stopped him. White Hawk set his drink down and approached, his movements slow and deliberate. “You’re hurt,” he said. “You should strip out of that costume so I can tend to your wounds.”

 

Aikan hesitated, his pride bristling at the suggestion. “I can handle it myself.”

 

White Hawk arched an eyebrow, though his expression was unreadable beneath the mask. “Really? Because from where I was standing, it looked like you were about to get killed.”

 

Aikan clenched his jaw. He hated feeling weak, especially in front of someone who had just saved his life. But the pain was real, and he wasn’t in any condition to argue. With a reluctant sigh, he reached for the tattered edges of his costume.

 

White Hawk stepped closer, his voice softening. “Let me help you, Aikan.”

 

Aikan met his masked gaze, searching for any sign of ulterior motives. But all he saw was patience—and something else, something unreadable. He exhaled and nodded slightly. Maybe, just this once, he could allow himself to be saved.

 

Aikan let down his guard, allowing White Hawk to unzip his suit, revealing a bruised, lean body. As the suit was peeled off, Aikan shivered slightly, wearing only his army-green briefs. "I'd like to keep the mask on."

 

"You learn fast," the muscular hero replied. "Don't worry, whatever you've been through, I've been there."

 

---

Aikan awoke to the scent of fresh linen and the lingering warmth of the mansion's luxury. His body ached, but he found himself lying on a vast, neatly made bed. The room was silent, save for the faint ticking of an antique clock on the wall.

 

He sat up, blinking groggily. His mask was still on. At least White Hawk had respected his boundaries.

 

Then it hit him—work. He was running late.

 

Aikan cursed under his breath, swinging his legs over the edge of the bed. As he stood, a neatly pressed dress shirt, slacks, and polished shoes caught his attention, laid out on a nearby chair. A small note rested atop the clothes:

Thought you might need a fresh start. – W.H.

 

Aikan hesitated for only a moment before grabbing the outfit. The material was high-quality, tailored to perfection. He dressed quickly, appreciating the gesture even as his thoughts lingered on his masked saviour.

 

He grabbed his phone, hurried out of the room, and managed to hail a cab outside the estate. The drive to the office was a blur, his mind racing with the events of the night before. White Hawk had saved him—twice, really. First from Black Serpent, and then from waking up without a plan.

 

As he stepped into his workplace, he winced. Pain flared through his ribs, a sharp reminder of his injuries. He gritted his teeth and kept walking. He couldn’t afford to look weak, not here.

 

Beth, his sharp-eyed coworker, was the first to notice his sluggish movements. "Jeez, Aikan, you look like you got hit by a truck. Rough night?"

"Something like that," he muttered, lowering himself gingerly into his chair.

Toph leaned over his cubicle wall, raising an eyebrow. "You sure you’re good? You’re zoning out, and we’ve got that client presentation in an hour."

Aikan blinked, trying to shake the fog from his mind. "Yeah, yeah. Just—" He exhaled. "Didn’t sleep much."

Beth smirked. "Don’t tell me you finally have a social life. Met someone?"

Aikan stiffened, memories of White Hawk flashing through his mind—the firm grip, the masked gaze, the smooth voice. He cleared his throat. "No. Just… too much on my plate."

 

Beth and Toph exchanged a knowing glance but didn’t press. As they dove into work, Aikan tried to focus, but his mind kept drifting back to White Hawk—the way his voice had softened, the way his presence had felt steady, reassuring.

For reasons he couldn’t yet explain, he wanted to see him again.

 

---

Later that evening, Aikan found himself at his Muay Thai gym, wrapping his hands as he prepared for training. His injuries were still there, but his superhuman abilities had already started healing him. He moved stiffly at first, but the familiar rhythm of training grounded him.

 

His training partner, Cheng, gave him a once-over. "You sure you should be here? You look like hell."

Aikan smirked. "And yet, I’m still gonna kick your ass."

 

Cheng laughed, shaking his head. "Alright, tough guy. Let’s see what you got."

 

But Aikan wasn’t at his best. Cheng took advantage of his slower reflexes, landing blow after blow. By the end of the session, Aikan lay on the mat, winded and bruised. As he walked home in defeat, he glanced up—and there, soaring above the city skyline, was White Hawk.

 

[lukecat]

chapter 2

The entrance to Dr. Aleck’s laboratory was hidden beneath Horizon City National University, concealed behind layers of security and sterile hallways. Inside, the lab was an eerie blend of advanced technology and unsettling secrecy—walls lined with vials of glowing liquids, screens displaying cryptic genetic sequences, and the hum of machinery that pulsed like a living entity.

 

Dr. Aleck, clad in a white lab coat, observed Aikan with a calculating gaze. His hair was slicked back with cheap gel as usual, and thick black glasses framed his face. The familiar smell of expensive oud cologne greeted Aikan.

 

Before Dr. Aleck could say anything, Aikan felt a wave of shame and confessed like a pious Catholic in a confession booth. "I nearly lost my battle to Black Serpent. I was lucky to have White Hawk whisk me away."

 

“Depending on other heroes? Not on my watch. You’re growing complacent,” he said, his voice as cool as the steel tables.

A moment of silence passed between the two men. After some hesitation, Aikan broke the silence and said, "That's why I came to see you doctor. Can you enhance my abilities?"

 

The doctor adjusted his frames and replied, “It's been a good six months since we started the first phase. In general, you are reacting well to the powers, but perhaps it is time for an upgrade. However, the technology is still a bit iffy.”

 

"What's the iffy bit?" Aikan asked, as he paced around the room. "Recently, I keep wondering what it would feel like to have more powers." 

 

Dr. Aleck adjusted his glasses and coughed to clear his throat. “Well, usually I experiment with mice and some of them show signs of strength but for others, they seem frantic almost, unable to contain the surge in energy."

 

"That's nothing," Aikan replied cockily. "Remember how it was when I first became Topaz Tiger? I manage to manifest and subdue my powers within two weeks."

 

The doctor smirked. "That's my boy. I knew I didn't pick the wrong candidate. Well, you know what to do?"

 

Almost like clockwork, Aikan started stripping down, peeling off his T shirt and jeans to reveal his pale skinny frame. He stuck his fingers down the waistband of his boxers as he tried to stimulate his own cockhead. He knew the doctor needed another sperm sample to create something to take his powers to the next level. Blood gradually filled Aikan’s penis, making him semi-hard. 

 

Although Dr. Aleck was straight, he knew he had a job to do. After being in this line for a while. He knew the shy nerdy types like Aikan did best with some anal stimulation. The doctor friskly removed his lab coat to reveal well-sculpted biceps wrapped in his navy polo shirt. Aikan started moaning as the doctor twisted his left nipple, while using his other hand to stroke Aikan’s hairy anus, before plunging his index finger in. Aikan’s voice filled the room and the test tube was filled with three spurts of cum, before the doctor removed his finger and washed it in the basin at the corner of the room. 

[lukecat]

Chapter 3 - serendipity

The first thief rounded the corner, his gun raised and ready to fire. Aikan was faster. His tiger instincts kicked in, and he lunged forward, knocking the man’s arm aside. The gunshot rang out harmlessly against the marble walls, and with a single punch, Aikan sent the thug flying into a nearby pillar.

 

Aikan just got off work when he saw the orange flare go up from the city centre. Following the sounds of siren, he found himself at the National Museum of Horizon City where a crime spree had erupted. To his surprise, the White Hawk had arrived just seven minutes before him. 

 

White Hawk was a blur of white and silver as he moved with lethal precision, his talons flashing as they sliced through the air. One of the thieves tried to fire at him, but White Hawk’s reflexes were faster. He grabbed the man’s wrist, twisted, and disarmed him in one fluid motion. The thief dropped to the ground with a grunt.

 

Aikan could hear the chaos in the background—yells, the clatter of heels on marble floors, the shrill sound of security alarms echoing through the halls. But all that mattered was the fight before him.

"That’s what I’m talking about," Aikan said, his voice filled with adrenaline. "This is what we do best."

White Hawk flashed him a quick grin. "Stay focused, Tiger."

The two vigilantes moved in sync, a deadly dance of strength and speed. Aikan dispatched another thug with a powerful roundhouse kick, sending the man into a nearby display case, shattering glass. White Hawk darted past him, delivering a flurry of rapid blows to a pair of thieves attempting to flee with a bag full of jewels.

 

The museum was a battleground, each corner becoming a new opportunity for the duo to showcase their teamwork. White Hawk’s speed was unparalleled, his every move an elegant blur, while Aikan’s raw power tore through their enemies with devastating force. The thieves, though well-trained, couldn’t keep up with the combined might of the two heroes.

 

Finally, the last of the thieves dropped their weapons and surrendered, hands raised high in the air. Aikan and White Hawk stood side by side, panting from the intensity of the battle. The sounds of sirens began to fill the air as the museum’s security forces arrived, ready to take the criminals into custody.

Aikan looked over at White Hawk, who was brushing off his robe with casual indifference. "Not bad, White Hawk. We make a pretty good team."

White Hawk’s eyes glinted beneath his mask. "You did well. Maybe you’re not so bad for a rookie."

 

Aikan chuckled, feeling a rush of excitement. He’d fought alongside other heroes before, but there was something about White Hawk—a level of mystery, of grace, that made this partnership feel different. "So, what's next? Do we stick around for the afterparty?"

White Hawk’s smile was unreadable, but his voice was calm. "I don’t think you’ll find many thieves at the afterparty. But I’m sure we’ll run into each other again soon."

 

Before Aikan could respond, White Hawk was already airborne, soaring into the night sky, leaving Aikan standing amidst the wreckage of the fight.

Aikan looked up at the darkened sky, the roar of the city below him, and felt a strange sense of fulfillment. For the first time in a long while, he didn’t feel alone in this fight. Maybe, just maybe, this partnership with White Hawk could lead to something more.

 

The evening air hung heavy with humidity as Aikan made his way down the steps of the museum, his muscles sore from the tussle with the jewel thieves. He could hear the distant hum of police chatter as officers rounded up the criminals and began the clean-up process. The flashing lights of squad cars painted the scene in shades of red and blue, but Aikan felt no sense of triumph. He wasn’t here for recognition.

 

He turned to head toward the alley, ready to slip away into the shadows. But then a voice caught his attention.

"Topaz Tiger, wait up!"

 

Aikan stopped mid-step, stiffening. The voice had an air of enthusiasm that grated against him.

He turned, forcing a tight smile. It was Sergeant Don, the rookie officer he had seen during the museum raid. Don was still in his early twenties, wearing the standard police uniform. His youthful face was lit with an expression that seemed almost reverent, like he was meeting a celebrity.

 

"Thanks for, well... for everything tonight," Don said breathlessly, jogging up to him. He didn’t seem to mind that Aikan was still wearing the Topaz Tiger suit, his face concealed beneath the mask. "I don’t think we would’ve gotten those thieves without your help."

 

Aikan gave a noncommittal nod. "Just doing my part," he muttered, turning slightly to avoid eye contact. His eyes were trained on the exit, mentally already shifting toward the next task.

 

Don, however, seemed to have other plans. "No, I mean, really," he continued, his voice now laced with a sincerity that was hard to ignore. "You were amazing out there. I’ve been thinking about this for a while, but... I’ve gotta ask. How did you get your powers?"

Aikan’s brow furrowed slightly under his mask, though his posture remained relaxed. The rookie didn’t even realise it, but his question hit a nerve.

"I was chosen," Aikan said simply, not wanting to engage too deeply.

 

Don blinked, clearly fascinated. "Chosen? But you must have trained, right? There’s no way anyone could just become... like you, overnight."

 

Aikan felt a surge of impatience. He had worked relentlessly for months to get to where he was, learning to control his abilities, honing his senses. But to this rookie, it all seemed like an afterthought—like the powers could be something anyone could acquire with the right effort.

 

"I wasn’t lucky," Aikan said through gritted teeth. "It’s a bit more complicated than that."

 

Don seemed to chew on the words for a moment before his expression shifted to something more wistful. "I get it. But still, it must be incredible to have that kind of power. Makes me wonder..." He hesitated for a moment, his voice softening. "Do you ever think about what it’d be like if someone like me could do what you do? If I could have powers... I’d be able to do my job better, you know? I’d be able to protect people more effectively."

 

Aikan’s muscles tensed. The thought of someone like Don—a rookie with no real experience—believing that he could wield powers just as easily as someone like him felt wrong. And it made Aikan want to distance himself from the conversation even more.

 

He gave a polite but firm reply. "Not everyone can handle these abilities, Sergeant. It’s more than just about fighting crime. There’s a responsibility that comes with power—something you may not fully understand yet."

 

Don nodded eagerly, seemingly undeterred. "Yeah, I get that, I do. But still, if I could make a difference like you do..." He trailed off, his voice tinged with a yearning that made Aikan uncomfortable.

 

"You don’t want to be like me," Aikan said, his voice low but clear. "Trust me."

 

Don blinked, momentarily confused. But then, to Aikan’s relief, he let out a nervous laugh. "Yeah, I get it. I’m not cut out for that kind of responsibility."

Aikan didn’t answer right away. His heart beat a little faster. Good. Maybe now he’d leave me alone.

 

But Don, ever persistent, was still standing there, waiting for something more. "But hey, thanks again," he said, his voice now lighter. "You’ve got my respect, Topaz Tiger. I don’t know how you keep going, but I guess that's why you’re the hero, huh?"

 

Aikan gave him a polite but strained smile. "Glad I could help, Sergeant. Just keep doing your job the best you can."

 

With that, Aikan scanned the area for an escape. He couldn’t help the irritation building up inside him. A rookie like Don doesn’t get it. He doesn’t know what it’s really like. And he’s delusional if he thinks he can be like me.

 

As he walked away, the sounds of the police scene began to fade, the flashes of lights becoming distant, until only the steady rhythm of his own thoughts remained.

[lukecat]

Chapter 4 - an unwanted obsession

The morning after the museum heist, Sergeant Don sat at his desk in the police precinct, the harsh fluorescent lights flickering above. His coffee sat untouched, the steam rising as his mind replayed the chaos of the previous night—the way Topaz Tiger had come through for them with such ease, taking down the jewel thieves like they were nothing more than nuisances. The way his movements had been fluid, calculated, and almost inhuman.

 

It had been a year since heroes like Topaz Tiger started showing up in Horizon City. But only last night, Don managed to see them up close in action. Don ran a hand through his short hair, frustration gnawing at him.

 

"I could do so much more with powers like his," he muttered under his breath.

 

At the desk beside him, Officer Alice looked up from her paperwork, raising an eyebrow. "What was that, Don?"

 

He snapped back to attention, forcing a smile. "Nothing. Just thinking about last night."

 

Alice chuckled. "It was something, huh? Those heroes really do save our butts sometimes. I bet Topaz Tiger could've stopped the whole thing before we even got there."

 

"Yeah," Don replied, his gaze distant. "But, how do they get their powers? I mean... how does someone like him just become that way?"

 

Keith, who had been reading the latest crime report, turned to face him, an amused grin spreading across his face. "Ah, the age-old question. How do supers get their powers?" He leaned back in his chair, pretending to stroke his chin dramatically. "Some say they’re born with it. Natural born freaks?"

 

"Maybe," Alice said, tapping her pen on the desk. "But I think there’s more to it. Maybe they were in the right place at the right time. Some kind of weird accident or lab experiment gone wrong."

 

Keith scoffed. "Yeah, like those 'power suits' some of them wear. Maybe it’s all some kind of high-tech crap. Just depends on who’s funding the research, right?"

 

Don sat back in his chair, his mind swirling with possibilities. Right place, right time. Lab experiments. Technology. He couldn't help but feel the rising heat in his chest, an itch he couldn't scratch. He wanted to know the truth, wanted to understand how it all worked—how he could get his own powers.

 

"You know," Don said slowly, his voice barely a whisper, "I wouldn't mind having powers like Topaz Tiger. Imagine what I could do for the city, for the department." He glanced over at Alice and Keith, his voice filled with longing. "I could stop criminals before they even try something. Maybe even take down the worst of them."

 

Keith raised an eyebrow, looking at Don like he was crazy. "You? A superhero?" 

 

Alice, however, seemed to give Don’s idea more thought. She leaned forward, looking intrigued. "You really think you could be one of them? Like a vigilante?"

Don nodded, his eyes burning with ambition. "Why not? Everyone always talks about how the world’s better with supers around, but what about us? Why can’t a regular guy like me get a piece of that?."

 

Alice leaned back, her arms crossed. "Be careful what you wish for. Heroes like Topaz Tiger are dealing with a lot more than they let on. It's not just about saving the day. There’s danger. They’re targets. They have to live with that kind of weight."

 

Don's jaw clenched, but his determination didn’t waver. "I don't care. I can handle it." He stood, his chair scraping the floor as he paced. "I just need to find a way to get those powers. Whether it's through science, fate, or whatever it takes. I’m not going to sit around like some useless cop. If I could be like Topaz Tiger, or even more powerful..." His voice trailed off, but the hunger in his eyes was unmistakable.

 

Keith exchanged a look with Alice, both of them sensing Don's growing obsession. "Just don’t go getting any wild ideas, alright?" Keith said, his tone laced with concern.

 

Don’s gaze hardened, his mind already racing ahead. "I won’t. But I’ll find a way."

—

The evening was quiet at Kei’s apartment, with the soft glow of the TV casting shadows over the couch where Don and Kei sat. Kei snuggled against him, her hands on his crotch, but Don couldn’t focus on the movie. His thoughts were consumed with last night’s robbery and Topaz Tiger.

 

Kei noticed Don's distraction and nudged him gently. "You’ve been off all night. You sure you're okay?"

 

Don shifted, restless. "Yeah, just thinking about... last night."

 

Kei frowned, sensing his tension. "The museum robbery? Don, it’s over. The heroes handled it."

 

"I know," he muttered, but his voice was distant. "But they make it look so easy. I keep thinking—what if I could do that? What if I had powers?"

 

Kei stared at him, surprised. "Don, you’re a cop. You don’t need powers."

 

"But think about it, Kei," he pressed. "With powers, I could change everything. Make a real difference." His eyes gleamed, excited by the idea.

Kei sighed, her tone sharpening. "Don, this isn’t you. You’re doing important work already. Powers won’t fix everything."

 

He couldn’t let it go. "But I could be more than just a cop. I need to be more."

 

Kei’s face hardened. "And what, Don? You think being with me isn’t enough? You’re obsessed with something you can’t have, and you’re forgetting what you do have."

 

Don’s frustration flared. "I can do more! I can be more than just this."

 

"You’re forgetting you’re already enough," she shot back, standing up, her voice cutting through the tension. "You’re here with me, Don. And you’re not even seeing it."

 

He opened his mouth to respond, but his phone buzzed—a night patrol alert. His stomach dropped, the urgency pulling him away from the argument.

 

Kei crossed her arms, her voice cold. "Go. Go play hero."

 

Don hesitated but then grabbed his jacket, guilt twisting in his gut. "Kei, I—"

But she was already turning away. "Just go."

 

With a sigh, Don rushed out of the apartment.

 

The high-speed chase was in full swing by the time Don arrived. A gang had stolen a truck and was weaving through traffic, with the police struggling to keep up. Don joined the pursuit, his gun drawn. His hands trembled, but his focus was sharp. This was his chance to prove himself.

 

The criminals veered onto a narrow street, crashing into a barricade. Don sprinted toward them, gun raised, adrenaline surging. But as he approached, one of the criminals aimed a weapon at him.

 

Don barely had time to react, firing a shot just as the criminal fired first. The bullet grazed his arm, but Don didn’t flinch. He charged, determined to finish what he’d started. But just as the thug lunged at him, a shadow swooped in—White Hawk, his wings slicing through the air.

 

With a powerful swoop, the superhero knocked the criminal away and pulled Don to safety, his wings shielding him from further danger. Don gasped, chest heaving as he caught his breath. White Hawk looked at him, his voice steady but serious. "You’re lucky. Next time, be smarter."

[lukecat]

Chapter 5  - At The Docks

The docks erupted into chaos. Smugglers scattered as Black Serpent weaved through the fray, his twin daggers striking with lethal precision. Crates shattered, spilling stolen cybernetic parts and weaponry onto the wet ground. Then, a sharp gust of wind. A streak of white cut through the darkness. White Hawk had arrived.

 

“You again,” Black Serpent muttered, dodging as White Hawk’s foot slammed into the dock.

“You always seem to be wherever there’s trouble,” White Hawk shot back.

 

“Trouble follows me,” Black Serpent said, flicking his wrist. Twin daggers spun toward White Hawk, but he deflected them with a burst of energy.

They clashed fiercely—White Hawk’s raw power against Black Serpent’s agility. Blades met reinforced gauntlets, sparks flying as the fight raged across the docks. White Hawk adapted quickly, pressing the attack until a brutal elbow sent Black Serpent reeling.

“Tch.” Black Serpent wiped blood from his lip. “You’re getting better.”

 

White Hawk lunged to finish it, but Black Serpent twisted away, throwing a smoke bomb. By the time the air cleared, he was gone.

Don pressed forward through the dimly lit docks. Ahead, the battle raged—White Hawk moving like a blur, his strikes precise as he clashed with Black Serpent. The smuggler's operation had been thrown into chaos, crates smashed, their illicit contents spilled onto the damp concrete.

Don had arrived just as the fight tipped in White Hawk’s favor. White Hawk didn’t give chase—his job was done, and the smuggling ring was in ruins. But Don wasn’t about to let the villain slip away so easily.

 

He ran after Black Serpent, his gun drawn but steady at his side. The chase led him through a maze of shipping containers, the clatter of hurried footsteps echoing between them. Then, without warning, Black Serpent stopped. Turned. Faced him.

“You’re persistent,” the villain mused, his voice smooth as silk. “Tell me, officer—how long do you plan to chase men like me when you could be standing beside us?”

 

Don narrowed his eyes. “Not interested.”

 

Black Serpent chuckled, tilting his head. “Oh, but you are. I’ve seen it before—the hunger in men like you. The frustration of being just human while the world is ruled by those with power.”

 

Don’s grip on his gun tightened, but he didn’t fire. Black Serpent took a slow step closer.

 

“I can give you that power.”

 

Temptation flickered. The words burrowed deep. Every struggle, every moment he’d felt weak or helpless on the job flashed through his mind. If he had power, he wouldn’t have to rely on superheroes. He wouldn’t have to watch from the sidelines. Don forced his expression into one of reluctant interest. He took a step forward, appearing to consider the offer. Black Serpent smiled knowingly, sensing victory.

 

Then Don struck.

 

In one fluid motion, he lunged forward, yanked a pair of cuffs from his belt, and snapped them toward Black Serpent’s wrist. But the villain was faster. Before the cuffs could click shut, Black Serpent slammed his forehead into Don’s, sending the officer staggering back with a sharp grunt of pain. His vision swam as he hit the ground.

 

A second later, Black Serpent was gone, his laughter lingering in the night air. Don groaned, pushing himself up. That’s when he saw it—a small black card resting beside him. No name, no logo. Just a number embossed in silver. An invitation.

Still reeling, Don tucked the card into his pocket. He wouldn’t use it. He told himself that.And yet, even as he stood, he couldn’t ignore the fact that Black Serpent had seen something in him.

[lukecat]

Chapter 6: Dashed Hope

Aikan barely had time to think about his vigilante work. His day job had consumed every waking hour, leaving no space for patrols, no room to chase criminals in the night. Weeks passed without him donning the Topaz Tiger suit. Tonight, he finally had a moment to breathe. And there was only one place he wanted to go, Dr. Aleck’s lab to get the power upgrade he had been yearning for. 

He arrived expecting answers. Instead, he found devastation.

 

The lab was ransacked—cabinets overturned, shattered glass coating the floor like ice, papers strewn in careless disarray. Aikan’s gut twisted as he stepped inside, scanning the wreckage. There were no signs of struggle—no blood, no body—but that didn’t mean Dr. Aleck was safe.

Someone had come for something. And they had found it. Aikan’s fingers twitched. If it were anyone else, they would assume all was lost. But Aikan knew better.

 

He moved past the obvious destruction, heading straight for a small maintenance panel behind a filing cabinet. Years ago, Dr. Aleck had jokingly told him that if anything ever happened, the real secrets wouldn’t be in the computers—they’d be where no one else would think to check.

Aikan pried open the panel, and there, tucked away in the cramped space, was a neatly folded pair of briefs. He exhaled sharply. This wasn’t just any clothing. Dr. Aleck had left this behind on purpose.

 

Carefully, Aikan retrieved them, brushing off the dust. Aikan’s fingers flew across the keyboard of the nearest working terminal to hopefully find more information, but most of the files were corrupted and fragmented code was blinking erratically on the screen. He was no stranger to digital forensics—he’d spent enough late nights debugging impossible systems to know that with enough effort, something could still be salvaged.

Plugging in a portable drive, he initiated a deep scan, piecing together whatever data hadn’t been completely wiped. The process was slow, frustratingly so, but eventually, he managed to extract a handful of damaged files. He pocketed the drive, took one last look at the ruined lab, and exhaled sharply. Whoever had done this wasn’t just after research.

 

Aikan’s grip tightened. The answers weren’t here anymore. But he had some clues that might lead him to them.

[lukecat]

Chapter 7: Sting

 

Sergeant Don sat at his desk in the precinct, flipping the sleek black card between his fingers. Across from him, Sergeant Jae leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, his biceps bulging in the tight navy police uniform. Unlike Don, who carried himself with quiet resolve, Jae was a rising star in the department—athletic, sharp-minded, and known for his no-nonsense approach to police work. He had a reputation for moving through the ranks quickly, his instincts often sharper than those of men with twice his experience.

 

"You know we should just turn that in, right?" Jae finally said, nodding toward the card.

 

Don sighed, setting it down. "I know. But Black Serpent didn’t just leave this for me as a taunt. He wants something. That means we have an opportunity."

 

Jae narrowed his eyes. "An opportunity or a trap? He’s not some small-time thug, Don. He’s the kind of guy who always has a plan."

Don hesitated, then nodded. "That’s why we take it straight to Ash. If we do this right, we could take him down."

Jae exhaled sharply, then reached for the card. "Let’s go."

 

Captain Ash studied the card in his office, turning it over in his hands. His expression remained impassive, but Don could see the gears turning in his head. Ash had always prided himself on leading from the front, a decisive man who hid his ambition beneath a mask of duty.

 

"You’re suggesting a sting operation," Ash said, finally looking up. "Black Serpent wants you to meet him. We use that."

 

Jae stood with his arms crossed. "Sir, this is dangerous. Serpent isn’t just another gang leader. He’s calculated, and if we’re not careful, this whole thing could backfire."

 

Ash leaned forward. "Which is why we make sure it doesn’t. You, Don, and two more officers will run point. SWAT will be positioned nearby for backup. We make the arrest clean and decisive."

 

Jae’s jaw tightened, but he nodded. Don, however, had an uneasy feeling creeping up his spine.

 

---

The operation was set at an abandoned warehouse near the docks. Don stood under the flickering lights, his heartbeat steady but his muscles tense. Jae, along with Sergeants Reyes and Koh, hid in the shadows, awaiting Ash’s signal. The SWAT team was stationed outside. Footsteps echoed from the darkness.

 

Black Serpent emerged, dressed in a simple white tank top and khaki pants, with a cleanly shaven head and a serpent tattooed across his forearm. The gaunt man was a stark contrast to his infamous name. But his presence alone was enough to set Don on edge. There was something about the way he moved—too smooth, too confident.

 

"Sergeant Don," Serpent greeted, his raspy voice laced with amusement. "I had a feeling you’d come around."

Don kept his posture firm. "I want in."

 

Serpent studied him, then smirked. "Smart man. But if we’re going to work together, you’ll need this."

 

He reached into his pocket and tossed Don a small black earpiece. Don barely caught it, his fingers tightening around the cool metal.

 

"This will keep us in touch," Serpent continued. "You’ll be my eyes and ears in the force. Simple, right?"

 

Don barely had time to react before Ash’s voice cut through the silence. "Now!"

 

The warehouse doors burst open as officers stormed in, weapons raised. But Black Serpent didn’t flinch. Instead, he moved with terrifying speed, grabbing Don and pulling him close as a shield.

 

"Bad move," Serpent murmured. Before Don could break free, a blade flashed in the dim light. Jae let out a sharp gasp as the knife buried itself into his side. He staggered, blood spreading across his shirt. Don’s stomach dropped.

"JAE!"

Reyes and Koh charged in, but Serpent was faster. A brutal strike sent Reyes crashing into a stack of crates, unconscious. Koh barely had time to react before Serpent landed a bone-shattering blow that knocked him out cold. Don struggled against Serpent’s grip, but the villain was impossibly strong. "You played your part well," Serpent said quietly. "But you were never going to win."

 

Then, out of nowhere, a blur of white and gold crashed into them. It was the vigilante, White Hawk. The superhero struck hard and fast, forcing Serpent back. But even he wasn’t quick enough—Serpent’s blade found its mark, stabbing White Hawk in the chest. The vigilante faltered, blood dripping onto the warehouse floor. Thankfully, before Black Serpent could finish him off, another figure joined the fray—a hero clad in sleek yellow and black armor, his movements fluid and deadly.

 

Topaz Tiger had appeared, after weeks of inaction in the crime-fighting scene. With razor-sharp reflexes, he intercepted Serpent’s next strike, his claws raking across his arm. "Not so fast," he growled, his voice firm with authority.

 

Serpent hissed in frustration, but now the fight was turning against him. Even with his speed and cunning, he was outmatched. White Hawk, despite his injury, launched himself forward, striking with precise, brutal efficiency. Topaz Tiger mirrored his movements, weaving in and out of combat with calculated precision. Sirens wailed as more backup swarmed in, and officers rushed forward, securing Serpent in reinforced restraints.

 

Don collapsed to his knees, gasping for breath. His gaze darted to Jae, who lay motionless as paramedics worked to stabilize him. White Hawk stood over them, gripping his wound but still standing tall. Topaz Tiger glanced at him, his amber eyes sharp with concern. As Black Serpent was taken away, Don clenched his fists. This wasn’t a victory.

 

White Hawk exhaled sharply, rolling his injured shoulder. Topaz Tiger stepped closer, brushing his gloved fingers against his arm. "You’re bleeding."

 

"So are you," he muttered, noticing a fresh cut along his cheek.

 

Aikan smirked. "Guess we’re even."

 

White Hawk held his gaze for a moment, something unreadable flickering in his expression. "You’ve improved."

 

Aikan’s smirk deepened. "Miss our night together?"

 

White Hawk didn’t answer immediately, but the way his fingers lingered on Aikan’s arm spoke volumes. Then, with a final glance, he turned away, disappearing into the shadows. Aikan wanted to give chase but before he could, a sharp pain jolted his guts, leading him to fall to the ground.

[lukecat]

Chapter 8: vulnerable

The golden-armored hero stumbled forward, his footing unsteady, as if the ground itself were shifting beneath him. His usually powerful frame trembled, his hands clutching at his side. Don rushed forward instinctively.

 

"Topaz Tiger!" Don called out, reaching for him. "Are you alright?"

 

The hero barely managed to lift his head. His visor, cracked from the battle, revealed just enough of his face for Don to see pain etched into every strained breath.

 

"Poison…" Aikan’s voice was barely a whisper. "Black Serpent’s venom, it’s slowing me down. My body is shutting down…"

 

This was bad. If the poison was as lethal as its namesake, Aikan wouldn’t last much longer without medical attention.

"We need to get you to a hospital, and now."

 

Aikan let out a weak whimper. "I can't walk. My muscles are failing me." He took a shallow breath. "Help me, but please don’t… don’t unmask me." His gloved hand feebly clutched at Don’s sleeve. "Please, don’t let anyone see me like this. Bring me out to the forest so I can heal."

There was something desperate, almost fragile, in his words. Don hesitated. One of the city's most elusive hero was practically collapsing in his arms, yet he still feared exposure more than death itself.

 

"Fine," Don relented. "But we have to move. Fast."

 

Sergeant Don carried the hero a good two miles, his tough police training had come in handy. Despite his lean frame, Sergeant Don had natural strength and endurance, but Topaz Tiger’s healing factor was no match for Black Serpent’s venom.

 

Aikan's fingers trembled as he reached for the buckle of his belt. "The belt… it's where my power comes from." His voice was laced with hesitation, as though the thought of revealing this truth was more painful than his injuries. "You need to wear it. It'll give you the speed and the strength to get me out of here and into a hospital or something."

 

Don blinked in shock. "Wait, you're saying this thing actually gives you powers?"

 

Aikan’s replied through bated breath, "It’s not something I give lightly. But right now, I have no choice. If you don’t put it on, I won’t make it."

 

There was no time for debate. Don’s hands went to the golden belt, hesitating only for a moment before unclasping it. The second the buckle came undone, something incredible happened. Topaz Tiger’s signature battle gear—began to dissolve. It shimmered, and quickly faded away into nothingness. In an instant, the powerful, enigmatic hero was gone.

 

In his place, Aikan lay slumped against a tree, stripped of his legendary guise. Without the armour, his true form was shockingly vulnerable—a lean, pale figure clad in nothing but a pair of grey briefs. His skin, damp with sweat, glowed under the moonlight, the faint rise and fall of his chest the only sign that he was still alive. Don swallowed hard, shifting his gaze. This was the Topaz Tiger? The hero he’d seen take down entire gangs with ease? Right now, he looked more like an ordinary young man than an unstoppable force of justice.

 

But Don didn’t have time to dwell on it. He fastened the belt around his own waist. The transformation was instant. A rush of raw energy surged through his body like lightning crackling through his veins. His muscles coiled with newfound strength, his senses sharpened, and the world around him seemed to slow. Every fiber of his being felt supercharged, as if he had just stepped into a reality where gravity had no hold on him.

Don exhaled, flexing his fingers. The agility, the power—it was unlike anything he’d ever felt before. He was faster. Stronger. Every movement felt effortless, like his body had been fine-tuned to perfection.

 

His heart pounded with exhilaration.

 

"This is insane," he muttered under his breath. It was everything he had ever dreamed of—the speed, the ability, the rush of power that made him feel truly unstoppable. Aikan groaned weakly, reminding Don of the urgency of the situation.

"Right," Don muttered, refocusing. "Hospital. Now."

 

He lifted Aikan into his arms with ease, surprised at how light he felt. Then, with a single leap, he shot forward, his body moving at an unbelievable speed. The world around him blurred as he dashed through the forest, weaving between trees with the precision of a predator. Every movement was instinctual, natural—like he had been born to wield this power.

 

Within minutes, he reached the city limits, the neon glow of the hospital sign guiding him forward. He sprinted through the emergency entrance, his arrival a whirlwind of motion that left the nurses stunned.

 

"Help him!" Don barked, his voice carrying the weight of urgency. "He’s been poisoned—he needs immediate attention!"

The medical staff sprang into action, rushing Aikan onto a gurney and wheeling him away. Don stood there, his breath steady despite the incredible feat he had just performed. His hands instinctively rested on the belt around his waist. He had saved a life tonight. And he had gained something else in return.

[lukecat]

Chapter 9: Reprimanded

The room was cold. The panelists’ faces were half-obscured in shadow, but their voices cut like razors. Captain Ash stood at attention in his neatly pressed uniform, his spine straight, his hands clenched behind his back. Although his uniform was spotless, it did little to protect him from the barrage that followed.

 

“This wasn’t initiative. This was recklessness.”

“You had no authorization. No backup. No clearance to deploy that way.”

“You dragged your team into a death trap and got two officers nearly killed.”

 

Ash’s eyes flickered, but he held his tongue. He had rehearsed this. He knew what they’d say. But still, hearing the disdain aloud hollowed him.

 

“You're not a lone wolf, Captain. You don't get to go rogue and call it valour.”

“You made a decision with lives you weren’t prepared to lose.”

 

The words came one after another, building like a storm. He didn’t argue. There was nothing to say. The sting had worked — Black Serpent was behind bars. But Jae is now in the hospital and White Hawk was injured. 

 

“We can’t trust your judgment. Not anymore.”

“Effective immediately, you are suspended from active command until further review.”

“Dismissed.”

 

The words hit harder than he expected. Ash’s breath caught in his throat, but he saluted silently and turned toward the door. It was already open — as if they couldn’t bear the sight of him a moment longer. Waiting outside was Superintendent Josh, arms crossed, jaw tight. His eyes didn’t move as Ash stepped out, but his voice was low.

 

“Come with me.”

 

Ash followed him down the corridor in silence. Every footstep echoed with shame. They walked in silence down the narrow corridor, the fluorescent lights above humming faintly. Captain Ash kept his gaze low, his boots thudding against the sterile floor. Josh didn’t look at him. At the end of the hall, Josh pushed open a nondescript door and ushered Ash inside. It was a private office — all glass walls and muted furnishings. The blinds were already drawn.

 

The door clicked shut behind them. Josh leaned against the desk, arms crossed, studying Ash with a gaze that finally softened.

“You’re not suspended,” Josh said flatly.

 

Ash blinked. “But—”

 

“They wanted your badge. I gave them your temporary removal from command instead. It was the only way I could keep them from sinking you.”

 

Ash stared at the floor. “I don’t care what they do to me.”

 

Josh’s eyes narrowed. “That’s the problem, Ash. You throw yourself in the fire like you don’t matter. Like none of this matters.”

 

Ash’s jaw clenched. “It did matter. We got Black Serpent…”

 

“You didn’t think. Period.” Josh’s voice cracked like a whip, but then he sighed and ran a hand through his hair. “But I know why you did it. I know what it’s like to feel like to want to achieve something big, to build your career on. How do you think I got here? 

Josh let out a smirk and Ash looked up — and for a second, their eyes met. Long enough for the air to shift. Josh stepped forward slowly, his voice lower now, rougher.

 

“I vouched for you, you know. Not because of your record. Not because of the brass. Because I’ve seen what you’re like when no one’s watching.”

 

Ash’s mouth parted slightly. There was something behind those words.

 

“You think I’d pull you out of the fire just because you’re good at your job?” Josh asked, voice tight. “You think I haven’t noticed the way you—”

 

Ash took a step back, heart pounding. “Sir…”

 

Josh laughed once, bitterly. “Don’t ‘sir’ me now. Not after everything. Turn around and bend over the table.”

 

After being shamed by the panel, all Ash knew to do was to obey. Before he knew it, Josh’s hand was unbuckling his belt pulling his pants to the ground.  Ash lowered his gaze again, his throat tight. “I didn’t mean to mess everything up.”

 

“You didn’t.” Josh’s voice gentled. “You just… need someone to remind you who you are when the armour comes off.”

 

Ash felt a tight slap over his butt and Josh admired his beautiful glutes through his yellow briefs. Before he knew it, a warm sensation cuddled Ash’s tight hole. Josh had given into the temptation of rimming his favourite understudy.

[lukecat]

Chapter 10: Echoes of the Tiger

It had been six months since the Black Serpent was apprehended in the sting operation that left the unit rattled and broken in ways no one wanted to talk about. Six months since Topaz Tiger disappeared into the forest, clutched in the arms of a Sergeant Don, who wanted nothing but to help rid his city of evil and supervillians. And now, Topaz Tiger walked the streets once more — but with broader shoulders and a different voice under the mask.

 

Don moved like he was born for the mantle. His steps were confident, his strikes calculated, his presence unmistakable. The suit responded to him, clung to him with familiarity. The city embraced his version of the hero, unaware that its heart no longer belonged to the original.

Aikan Li’s muscles ached from yet another early morning training session at his muay thai gym. He had healed, mostly. The poison had left his system. His wounds had closed. But something deeper hadn’t. Every day he rose with a tightness in his chest, a hollow weight in his belly. Without the belt, without the suit, without the mantle of Topaz Tiger — who was he? To make things worse, he had no idea where Dr Aleck had been all this while. He would do anything to make himself feel worthy again. 

 

Aikan hadn’t been able to track down Don since the day he passed the belt. That moment burned in his memory — not with regret, but with longing. For the strength. For the purpose. For the version of himself that didn’t flinch at his own reflection.

 

Captain Ash kept his head down. He had returned to active duty, though his authority had been clipped. He answered more. He stepped more lightly. He obeyed protocols like scripture now. Superintendent Josh loomed over his every move. Their relationship had settled into something tense, coiled — something that didn’t quite have a name. Behind closed doors, Josh’s voice softened. His touch lingered. There were moments, quiet ones, that bordered on tenderness. Then came the sharp turns. The reminders.

 

“You wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for me,” Josh had whispered the last time they were alone.
“Don’t forget what they wanted to do to you.”

 

Now Ash’s freedom was narrower than the badge on his chest suggested. And every time Josh pulled him into a corner with those eyes and that quiet intensity, Ash followed — part guilt, part need, part resignation. He didn’t know what to call this thing between them. He only knew it kept him in uniform. And for now, that had to be enough.

 

Rain traced lines down the windows of the precinct's recovery wing, a quiet corner reserved for those still mending—physically, or otherwise. Jae sat hunched on the gym bench, absently rolling a stress ball between his fingers. His once-coiled strength, the agility he’d prided himself on, had become a phantom sensation. The damage Black Serpent left behind wasn’t just physical; it was a theft of control. His body had healed enough for light duties—desk work, supervision, review files—but he yearned for motion. For the feeling of flipping through the air, for the rush of combat, for the tension of pushing himself beyond human limits.

 

The door clicked open. Captain Ash stepped in, a man who looked like he hadn’t slept in days. His posture was tense, like he was bracing for something. Jae looked up, surprised. “Didn’t think I’d see you here.”

 

“I needed some air,” Ash said. “How’s your recovery?”

 

Jae just shrugged, not knowing what to express. For a moment, neither spoke. The rain filled the silence between them.

 

“You ever feel like you’re still fighting,” Ash continued, “just not the fight you trained for?”

Jae let out a short laugh. “Every damn day.”

 

Ash looked away. His jaw tensed, the muscles in his neck straining against words he had long kept to himself. “I thought surviving that sting would be the hardest part,” he said. “But no one talks about what comes after. The quiet orders. The strings.”

 

“Josh?” Jae asked softly. Ash hesitated, but the weight of the name didn’t need repeating. He just nodded.

 

“He pulled me out of the fire,” Ash continued. “If he hadn’t intervened, I would’ve been discharged. Stripped of rank. Maybe worse. But now... I owe him. Every day I wear this uniform, I’m reminded it’s only because he said I could.”

 

“That’s not freedom,” Jae murmured.

 

“No,” Ash replied. “It isn’t. But it’s all I’ve got.”

 

Jae squeezed the stress ball tighter. “Feels like we’re all just ghosts of what we used to be.”

 

Ash leaned forward, resting his forearms on his knees. “You miss it?”

 

“My body remembers what it was capable of,” Jae said quietly. “But when I try… it’s like the signal's been scrambled. Like I’m underwater.”

 

They both sat in the soft hum of fluorescent lights and rain. Two men who had once been unshakeable, now cracked in private ways.

 

Ash finally said, “Maybe it’s selfish, but it helps, talking to you.”

 

Jae gave a small, wry smile. “It’s not selfish. We’re not machines. Even tigers have to rest.”

 

Ash looked at him, eyes filled with something raw. “You still believe in us?”

 

Ash felt a surge of gratitude towards Jae. He couldn't believe how understanding and empathetic he was being, despite all the dressing downs he had given Jae in the past. It made Ash want to use him, to let go of all his frustrations and anger.

 

Without thinking, Ash wanted to feel like the Captain he once was, and ordered Jae to strip into his briefs. Jae's eyes widened in surprise, but in this tender moment, he quickly did as he was told. Ash couldn't help but stare at Jae's toned body, his muscles rippling with every movement. Jae's bulge in his underwear smelled of sweat and musk, and Ash couldn't help but breathe it in. It was intoxicating, and it only made him want Jae more. He ordered Jae to do the same as he pulled off his pants, and soon they were both standing there in just their briefs, their bodies only inches apart.

 

Ash reached out and touched Jae's chest, feeling the heat radiating off of him. Jae's breath stopped, and Ash could see the desire in his eyes. He ordered Jae to take off his briefs, and Jae quickly complied. Ash's cock was already hard, and he couldn't help but stroke it as he looked at Jae's naked body. Jae's dick was already erect, and Ash couldn't help but reach out and touch it. Jae moaned as Ash stroked his cock, his hips thrusting forward. Ash couldn't help but lean in and kiss Jae, their tongues exploring each other's mouths.

 

Ash broke the kiss and ordered Jae to get on his knees. Jae did as he was told, his eyes fixed on Ash's cock. Ash couldn't help but smile as Jae took his cock into his mouth, his tongue swirling around the tip. Ash groaned as Jae sucked on his cock, his hips thrusting forward. He could feel his orgasm building, and he couldn't help but hold back. He wanted this to last as long as possible.

 

But eventually, Ash couldn't hold back any longer. He shot his load into Jae's mouth, and Jae swallowed every drop. Ash couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction and relief as he came, his body trembling with pleasure. Jae stood up, a smile on his face. Ash couldn't help but feel grateful for Jae, for his understanding and empathy. It was exactly what Ash needed to feel better.

[lukecat]

Chapter 11: Nocturnal Games

 

Bastion’s sneakers echoed along the empty footpath, the soft thud of rubber soles against concrete the only sound keeping him company in the late evening gloom. His backpack weighed heavy with textbooks. He shouldn’t have stayed late after tuition. Not in Horizon City. Not with all the recent disappearances of children and teenagers. He turned the corner near the underpass and saw the glint of eyes in the midst of the darkness. Before he could react, a shadow swooped down from above, leathery wings cutting through the air with brutal force. The scream never made it out of his throat.

 

The warehouse was dark, just enough for the city lights to dance around its walls from kilometres away. White Hawk’s boots landed with a soft thud on the dusty floor as he tailed BatFreak, careful, controlled. He’d caught glimpses of the villain dragging the terrified teen — Bastion — into the building moments ago.

 

“Let him go,” White Hawk’s voice echoed low, sharp.

 

BatFreak hissed from the rafters, legs coiling like rope. “Or what? You’ll flap your pretty feathers and cry?”

Before White Hawk could draw his baton, BatFreak dropped from above, flipping mid-air, legs wide and locking around the hero’s neck. The impact slammed White Hawk into a beam, and before he could react — the villain's groin pressed tight against his face. There was something chemical. Heavy. A stink that wasn’t just sweat but something more insidious. White Hawk gagged. His limbs felt like jelly. His strength bled out in seconds. The world spun as BatFreak tightened his thighs, rubbing in with sadistic glee. Somehow, it made White Hawk hard in his tight costume, but his strength was quickly draining from the smell. 

 

“You like that, bird-boy?” BatFreak sneered.

 

But before the villain could finish gloating, the warehouse wall exploded. It was Topaz Tiger who stormed through the dust cloud, glowing and furious. His armored fist connected with BatFreak’s side in a sickening crack. White Hawk collapsed as BatFreak shrieked and flew across the warehouse, slamming into crates. Topaz Tiger didn’t wait. He lunged, raining blow after blow, until BatFreak’s breathing turned into gasps. The villain’s limbs trembled, and a spatter of blood hit the ground. Before long, the freak let out a shriek and flew out into the night sky, upset he had lost his prey tonight but at least he lives to hunt another day. 

 

“No mercy for freaks,” Topaz Tiger growled, barely holding himself back from delivering the final punch. Bastion, who had been curled in a corner, stared in awe. His mouth hung open, trembling not with fear, but reverence.

 

“You’re real,” he breathed. “You’re—heroes.”

 

White Hawk, still shaken, but his strength slowly regaining since fresh air replaced the smell of BatFreak’s musky crotch, used the wall to push himself upright. He looked at Bastion with softness in his eyes. “You’re safe now. And one day… I think you’ll be one of us.”

 

Topaz Tiger scoffed, turning away. “He doesn’t have what it takes.”

 

The boy’s gaze flicked between them. “I… I want to be like you.”

 

White Hawk shot a sharp look at Topaz Tiger, quiet and knowing. “You’re not the same,” he said. “You’re not the Topaz Tiger I knew.”

 

“We’re done here,” Don muttered under his mask, and stomped out without another word. White Hawk watched him go before turning to Bastion.

 

“Come on,” he said, voice softer now. “Let’s get you home.”

 

Before Bastion could say anything, the muscular hero lifted the young man in a fireman carry and took to the sky. Bastion peed a little in his jeans from the sudden height gain but knowing he was safe in the hero’s arms quickly comforted him.

The city lights glowed gentle amber as Bastion directed White Hawk to his home, while the hero secretly sniffed Bastion’s curly hair. 

 

“You really think I could be a hero?” Bastion asked, eyes wide as they landed in front of his apartment. White Hawk looked at him, noticing the scuffed knees, the courage it must’ve taken to stay strong in a kidnapping. He smiled. “You already are one. You got through tonight.”

 

There was silence for a moment as they both stared into each others’ eyes, a mysterious connection that evaded the formulation of words. 

 

“Do you know who Topaz Tiger really is?” Bastion asked, breaking the silence. 

 

White Hawk hesitated. “I used to.”

 

Bastion tilted his head. “He’s scary. But also… kinda cool.”

 

White Hawk chuckled. “Yeah. That’s how it starts.”

 

Bastion made his way, bid the hero goodbye. And White Hawk for some unknown reason, took note of his address. 

—

The night air was thick with the scent of damp leaves and old stone as Aikan scaled the mossy hill that led to Dr. Aleck’s old lab. The metal doors groaned slightly as he slipped through the broken latch, the once-pristine research center now a skeleton of what it used to be. The air had been stirred recently and the faintest impression of muddy footprints led down the corridor toward the tech vault. Aikan’s eyes narrowed. Someone’s been here.

 

He moved silently, navigating the scattered files and unplugged wires until he reached the core room. The vault — once sealed — had been pried open slightly. Just enough for someone to slip through. He pushed it open gently. Nothing was missing. But on the floor was a small trail of crumbs. Energy bar crumbs. A wrapper tucked under the console.

His heart pounded. He wasn’t alone. Or at least, someone had been returning regularly. Who could it be? Don has the belt, but he wouldn’t have known of Topaz Tiger’s origin, unless the belt could speak. Or was it a scavenger trying to find leftover tech?

 

Aikan reached into his coat pocket, pulling out a compact device — a custom micro-drone camera with a motion-detection alert system. He climbed the back panel near the ventilation shaft and mounted it perfectly — hidden from sight. Then he pulled out a burner phone, synched it to the feed, and tested it. A grainy, green-tinted image of the lab’s interior blinked to life. Perfect.

 

"Let’s see who you are…" Aikan whispered.

 

Before he left, he looked around the lab once more. The broken furniture. The cracked whiteboards. The faint scent of soldering still clinging to the walls. This was where Topaz Tiger had been born.

—

The blinds were shut, the room dim — only a desk lamp cast light across Superintendent Josh’s polished shoes. Captain Ash knelt at the center of the rug, stripped down to his navy jockstrap. His breath was steady, trained. He’d been through this before. Josh paced behind him, quiet, controlled. Then he spoke — not harsh, but deliberate.

 

"You’ve done well lately," Josh murmured, his fingers running through Ash’s thick and wavy hair. “Your report on the Red Titan sightings in the outer district was meticulous. You’re good at your job.”

 

Ash didn’t answer but the compliment made blood rush to his groin. He knew the drill. But his fists trembled with excitement and precum wet his jockstrap as Josh teased his erect nipples. Josh circled to face him, almost kissing him, voice softening. “Don’t look so tense. I only ask this of you because I know you can handle it.”

 

There was a flicker of something in Ash’s eyes — not quite shame, not quite pride. Josh crouched before him, brushing a knuckle along Ash’s cheek. “You're not just some pawn, Ash. I don't let just anyone kneel here.”

 

A smirk tugged at Ash’s lips. Josh leaned back, unbuckling his belt slowly, more ceremonial than crude — until a sharp, urgent beep pierced the quiet. He froze. His comm tablet blinked red. Priority One. Josh’s expression hardened in an instant. He crossed the room, tapping the alert.

 

The dispatcher’s voice crackled:  “Skele Grow gang sighted at the Horizon City Central Bank — multiple hostiles, gold vault breach confirmed. Requesting immediate tactical response.”

 

Josh snapped into action, swiping on his holster and grabbing his comms gear. “Ash, get up. Get suited! We have to go!”

 

Ash rose quickly, already halfway into his pants. “We going in full force?”

 

Josh nodded, his voice clear and commanding again. “They’re not getting out with a single ounce of that gold.”

He glanced over, seeing his beautiful Captain emerge from the shadows in his neat uniform, a spectacle in his eyes. Ash paused, and replied tenderly, “Yes, sir.”