Maple Goes Back To School (Transcript)

This is the 46th episode of Justice Squadron: Comicger

It was 6:00 A.M. at Maple's Petropolis apartment. She was in bed sleeping soundly when her "Lord of the Pigs" Eye of Lizauron alarm clock starts blaring, indicating that it's time for her to wake up.\*

Alarm Clock: "The Eye of Lizauron commands thee to awaken!"

Maple: (waking up groggy) Ugh. Fly, you fool. (turns off the alarm by pressing down on the eye, and starts getting out of bed)

\*Maple starts yawning like a real wolf, and she starts making her way to the bathroom to freshen up. She looks in the mirror to see that her hair is a mess, and she starts brushing it and spraying it to get it nice and shiny. After brushing her teeth, and washing her face, Maple goes over to her closet to get her white dress shirt, black skirt, and high heeled shoes. After grabbing her Platinum Turner, and putting it on her wrist, she goes over to her kitchen and fills up her coffee thermos, and packs up her bag to start another day at Crystal Comics.\*

Maple: Well, back to the salt mine for me. (grabs a fruit granola bar, and heads out of her apartment, and starts heading to work)

\*On her way to work, she walks by Petropolis High School, and sees the Comicgers getting off the school bus, ready for another day at school. Maple looks on as they were goofing around a little bit before class started, and starts missing her days in high school.\*

Maple: Aw, look at the kids just fooling around before class starts. ^^ Man, I miss my high school days. Good times. ^^(continues on her way to Crystal Comics)

\*Then, she eventually made it to Crystal Comics, and clocks in. She puts her apron on, and begins her duties at the store.\*

Big Louie: Morning, Maple. ^^ How're you doing this fine morning?

Maple: Eh, I'm alright. Just kinda groggy. (starts sweeping the floor of the store)

Big Louie: Why? What's wrong? Is it your mattress? Do you feel like you need to get a new one?

Maple: Oh, no! My mattress is fine. It's just that... sometimes I feel like being a grown up is pretty stressful. I mean, I wake up, fix myself up, go to work, come home, and worry about bills. When I was a kid, I didn't need to worry about ANY of that!

Big Louie: Yeah, I know the feeling, Maple. But, sometimes, we all gotta grow up. It sucks, yeah, but that's life for you.

Maple: Yeah, unfortunately. But, I gotta sweep up these floors to put food on the table. (continues sweeping the floor)

Big Louie: Yeah. (sips his coffee, eats his banana nut muffin, and starts reading the latest Quick Vixen graphic novel)

\*Throughout most of her day, Maple was sweeping, mopping, washing the windows, organizing the merchandise, ringing up customers at the register, and helping Big Louie unload the boxes from the back room. Then, the afternoon came, and Maple saw the Comicgers coming into the store to browse for all the latest pop culture merchandise. She was thrilled to see them because every time they came to Crystal Comics, it always put a smile on her face.\*

Maple: Ah, here are my favorite customers right here.

David: Oh, hey Maple!  How're things going over here at Crystal Comics?

Maple: Oh, same as usual. Not much has happened here, lately.

Steve: Well, Darkanos hasn't sent a new monster out to try and destroy us and the city in quite some time. So, in the meantime, things HAVE been pretty quiet. ^^

Maple: Yeah. (sits down in the reading lounge and sighs)

Katie: What's wrong, Maple?

Maple: Oh, nothing. It's just that... sometimes I wish I was a kid again. I feel like I'm getting a bit old doing the same thing day in and day out. You kids have it lucky. You just go to school, learn stuff, and not have to worry about bills or gray hairs and stuff like that.

William: Hey, don't be like that, Maple. (sits down next to her) You're still pretty young for your age. And, you've got one of the best jobs in the city here.

Monica: Yeah, you got it pretty easy compared to our parents.

Steve: And, me! I mean, having to spend all day chasing after trouble-making students? I'm lucky to get off at the three o' clock bell.

Maple: I know.

Paul: Well, if you feel that strongly about it, you can take one day off from Crystal Comics, and attend our classes for one day at PHS. Maybe THAT'LL mix things up for you a bit.

David: Yeah. I'm sure Big Louie would understand what you're going through. How else do you think he's able to connect so well with the kids here?  (shows Maple Big Louie helping a teenage giraffe girl from their class reach the Gamerman replica Gamer Master Robo on the top shelf)

Big Louie: (using his ape arms to reach the top shelf, grabbing the Gamer Master, and gives it to the giraffe girl)

Giraffe Girl: Wow! Thanks, Big Louie! You're a lifesaver. ^^

Big Louie: Yeah, I know. If I've got these lanky arms, I might as well use 'em. ^^

Maple: Yeah, he definitely would.  Alright, I think I'll take a shot at it. ^^

Steve: Very good. Classes at Petropolis High School begin at exactly 7:30 in the morning, and end at 3:00 in the afternoon on the dot! And, because you're attending for just a day, I'll give you David's schedule.

Monica: Oh, and one more thing, Maple. Try your best not to embarrass us by trying to be "hip with the younger crowd."

William: Yeah! 'Cause at YOUR age, the last thing you want is excitement.

Maple: Well, I ain't making any promises.  So, it's decided! I, Maple Howler, am going back to school!  (starts standing triumphantly)

Katie: (seeing this might fall on its face) I've got a bad feeling about this.

\*Meanwhile, at Darkanos' fortress, Orvomon was playing chess with one of Darkanos' latest monster. The monster was a female, Martian-looking monster with sand-colored skin, brown spots on her shoulders, long arms with three alien fingers on each hand and silver bracelets on each wrist, three-toed clawed feet, a small tuft of white hair on her head, blue and yellow eyes with light blue eye shadow, two holes for a nose, and big, puffy, red lips that showed some yellowing teeth. She was also wearing a bronze yellow futuristic outfit with a silver V-belt and a matching futuristic-looking neck collar, and lightning bolts on her pant leg hips. Her most prominent feature was a gigantic brain on her head, which allowed her to read the minds off her foes, and exposing their deepest, darkest secrets. Her name was Mind Trap, and she was considered to be the smartest monster in Darkanos' army. When she makes her move, she moves the rook to Orvomon's side of the chess board, and calls checkmate.\*

Mind Trap: Checkmate, fatso!

Orvomon: Darn it! How is it you're so good at this game?!?

Mind Trap: Well, I've studied the board carefully, and I figured that my first move should be e4, which is the best way to begin plenty of open games with a LOT of active play and combinations. Then, I learned that the principles of playing open, active, tactical-rich games first were best demonstrated in games that opened with the move e4! Later on, I can learn chess openings. Then, I use my big brain, and figured out that it can't be right to attack somebody who makes no mistakes, and has developed all pieces correctly. If I DID attack him, I won't develop my pieces fast enough, and will lose center control, and sooner or later the game! So, I always develop my pieces fast, and don't move any useless pawns unless the pawn move is a center-pawn-move that controls vital center squares, and is necessary for developing the pieces. In layman's terms, sometimes brains is more powerful than brawn!

Orvomon: Well, personally, I'd rather stick to fighting, if you don't mind.

\*Then, Darkanos comes in, and is very impressed with Mind Trap's progress.\*

Darkanos: (looking at the progress that Mind Trap made on the chess board) Very impressive, Mind Trap. You definitely ARE the smartest monster in my army. The reason why I picked YOU was because I believed that some of my previous monsters were pretty stupid, which is why they were sent back to the comics so easily. But, you, Mind Trap, are very special, which is why with your superior intellect, you could be able to defeat the Comicgers VERY easily.

Mind Trap: Thanks, boss! (points at her head) With this giant noggin of mine, there's no way the Comicgers can beat me!

Darkanos: Excellent! That's what I like to hear!

Infafre: (coming into the throne room) Oh, and master, there's one more trick she can do with her giant brain. ^^

Darkanos: Oh, really? What is it?

Infafre: With her giant brain, Mind Trap can read the minds of her foes, and learn their deepest, darkest secrets. Show the master what I mean, Mind Trap. ^^

Mind Trap: Gladly.  (starts using her mind powers to penetrate the mind of Orvomon, and starts reading his mind)

Orvomon: (in deep thought) "I sure hope Darkanos doesn't get mad when he finds out that I ate the last Danish from the kitchen."

Darkanos: (hearing what Orvomon thought) So, it WAS you, wasn't it? I should've known!

Orvomon: (realizing that his secret was revealed) Uh-oh! I'm so sorry, master! I didn't mean to! I thought it was up for grabs for anyone to take!

Darkanos: We'll talk about this later, Orvomon!

Mind Trap: But, let's see what's on YOUR mind, my lord!  (uses her mind powers on Darkanos)

Darkanos: (in deep thought) "That monster had better defeat the Comicgers soon. I wouldn't wanna miss the latest episode of 'Cougar Wives of North Carolina.' I mean, those cat ladies are completely savage to one another. I love it! I sure wish my minions were just as savage!"

Infafre: (hearing Darkanos' thought) You watch that stupid "Cougar Wives" show, my lord? That show is complete garbage!

Darkanos: Maybe, but at least those cougars are more savage than most of my soldiers.

Infafre: (trying to think of something to say, but couldn't do it) I got nothing.

Darkanos: I must say, that's very impressive, Mind Trap.

Mind Trap: Thanks so much, boss! Maybe I can use my mind-reading powers to dig deep into the Comicgers' psyches, and fish out their deepest, darkest secrets. And, with their classmates hearing EXACTLY what they were thinking, they'll be SO humiliated, they might not want to fight back against us! It's ingenious!

Darkanos: Ah, so if we can't destroy them physically, we'll have to destroy them mentally! I can't believe we didn't try this sooner!

Infafre: Oh, yes, master! So, it's basically a case of mind over matter!

Darkanos: Excellent. Now, tomorrow morning, I want you to head down to Petropolis High School, and spy on the Comicgers in their classes! And, make sure that they don't see you, otherwise the whole plan will be compromised!

Mind Trap: Right away, boss! I'll be sure to seek out each one, and expose their secrets to the WHOLE school! (disappears from the fortress)

Darkanos: If we're lucky, those twerps will realize that brains will definitely defeat brawn. (laughs evilly)

\*The next morning at school, the Comicgers have arrived as usual, and Steve was starting his daily shift as the school security guard. They meet up at David's locker, and they were discussing what's gonna happen on that day. However, little did they suspect that Maple's coming over as well to join them in their classes.\*

William: So, David. Are there any tests that we should be prepared for?

David: Well, not really. Although, I heard that Mr. Silverback is gonna give us a pop quiz on logarithms this afternoon. But, other than that, nothing much.

Monica: Oh, boy. I'm not really big with logarithms.  I sure hope I do pretty good on this, unlike last time.

David: Relax, Monica. I'm sure you'll do fine.

Katie: I doubt it. Last time we had a pop quiz in math class, Monica fainted.

Monica: Hey! I've learned since then!

David: Let's sure hope so.

\*As David closes his locker, standing right behind it was Maple wearing her old Japanese high school uniform, which surprisingly still fits her. She was ready to get on with her day at school to see what the Comicgers do there each day. Once the Comicgers saw this sight, they were completely speechless.\*

Paul:  What the....?

William: M... M... Maple? Is that you?!?

Maple: Yup. It's me, kids. ^^ So, whaddaya think? You like my old high school uniform?

David: (speechless) Y... yeah. But, it's kinda much, don't you think?

Katie: Well, I think it's kinda cute.

Monica: I can't believe that thing still fits you.

Maple: Me neither. I can't believe I still had this thing floating around my closet at all. Guess I was lucky. ^^

Paul: Yeah, I'll say.

David: Well, as long as you're not gonna embarrass us throughout the day, we should be good.

Monica: Especially during the logarithms pop quiz this afternoon.

Maple: Don't worry, kids! You have my word! Cross my heart. (makes a crossing motion across her heart)

William: Okay, let's hope.

Paul: (hearing the school bell ring) Well, guess we'd better get to class.

David: Okay, Maple. Try to follow my lead, and you should blend in with the rest of the crowd.

Maple: Okay! Let's do it!

\*Then, Maple follows David to his first class, which was Mrs. Ungerman's English class. As they went to class, Gerald and Harold see Maple following David to class, and think that she's up to something.\*

Harold: Hey, Gerald! Isn't that the wolf lady who works at Crystal Comics?

Gerald: (recognizing her) Oh, you're right, Harold! I wonder what she's doing here in school!

Harold: Maybe she failed outta high school, and is trying her best to make up for it by attending school this year!

Gerald: (thinking of something else) Or, maybe she's working undercover to learn more about our classmate's habits, so she can tell T.O.O.R. about them, and they can shape them into future soldiers! She DID say she was married to their leader, Wreckage.

Harold: Huh. She seems so nice and friendly at the store.

Gerald: It was all a cover, Harold! So, if we thwart her evil plans, and expose them to Principal Kensington, she'll have no choice but to award us special honors for services to the school! Just think! Special discounts at Crystal Comics! Appearances on talk shows! Why, the mayor might even give us the key to the city!!!

Harold: (picturing them getting a special award from the President) Oh, yeah!

Gerald: Now, c'mon! Let's follow her, and see what she's up to!

\*Then, Gerald and Harold start following Maple around to see what she's up to. Then, David and Maple (along with Paul) reach Mrs. Ungerman's English class, and she begins to ask them if they've read the current chapter of Romeo & Juliet for homework. But, before she got to that, she notices Maple, and thinks that she's an exchange student from Japan because of her uniform.\*

Mrs. Ungerman: Konichi-wa, students! My name is Mrs. Ungerman. And, the only reason why I said that is because it appears we have an exchange student from Japan here. ^^ (approaches Maple) Young lady, please tell the class what your name is. ^^

Maple: Uh....

Mrs. Ungerman: Come now. Don't be shy.

Maple: (whispers to David) David, she thinks I'm an exchange student! What do I do?

David: Just act naturally. I'm sure you'll get through this!

Maple: Okay. (gets up to introduce herself) Konichi-wa, everyone. I'm Maple Howler, and I'm here as part of an exchange program between the USA and Japan. And, don't worry, I can speak perfect English very well, even in my own home country. ^^

Mrs. Ungerman: That's very impressive, Miss Howler. I take it that's your American name?

Maple: Yes, it is. My Japanese name is WAY to hard to pronounce, so I'm not gonna bother with THAT!

David: So far, so good.

Paul: Let's hope this doesn't fall flat on her face.

\*Back outside the classroom, Mind Trap has appeared in the hallway, and starts sneaking around to find the Comicgers. She eventually finds Mrs. Ungerman's class, and sees David, Paul, and Maple in the class, and Maple was telling everyone about herself.\*

Mind Trap: Ah, here are a couple of them. Now, let's see what lurks in those fresh young minds of theirs.

\*Unbeknownst to her, Gerald and Harold were sneaking up to the classroom inside of a garbage pail, hoping to get the scoop on Maple herself.\*

Gerald: There it is, Harold! (sees Mind Trap) Hey! There's monster there! I wonder what she's doing here!

Harold: I dunno. Maybe, she's looking to finish high school, too.

Gerald: Or maybe she has an ulterior motive, too. C'mon, let's check it out!

\*The two of them get closer to Mind Trap as she begins to read the Comicgers' minds.\*

Mind Trap: Just a little closer...

Gerald: (popping out of the garbage pail) Not so fast, you crazy monster! You're not kidnapping our classmates on OUR watch! >: )

Harold: Uh, Gerald! We're not wearing watches!

Gerald: Figure of speech, Harold! (turns to Mind Trap) Now, prepare to meet your maker! (tries to do some karate moves on Mind Trap)

Mind Trap: (stopping him by using her mind powers to levitate Gerald in the air) Is that all you got? I'll show you who you're messing with.  (tosses him around like a rag doll, and throws him into the girls' bathroom)

Girls: (running out of the bathroom screaming)

Gerald: (coming out water-logged) Okay, didn't see THAT coming! (pounds his head, getting the water out)

Harold: Uh, listen. I can go if you'd like...

Mind Trap: Nonsense! Stay, and let me know what's on your mind. (uses her powers to look into Harold's mind)

\*Unfortunately, because he was so dumb, all that Mind Trap could hear was 8-bit music.\*

Mind Trap: What the...??? All I'm hearing is 8-bit music!

Harold: Yeah, I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed.

Mind Trap: What a rip-off! (uses her mind powers to levitate Harold, and throw him down the hallway) Now, to get to the REAL reason why I'm here. (peaks into the classroom)

\*Inside the classroom, Mrs. Ungerman was going over the Hamlet chapter that she assigned for homework.\*

Mrs. Ungerman: Now, class, who here can tell me the text in Romeo & Juliet Act 2, Scene 6?

\*A couple of students, including Maple, raise their hands to give her the text.\*

Mrs. Ungerman: (picking Maple) Ah, Miss Howler. Care to share it with us?

Maple: Gladly, Mrs. Ungerman. ^^ (starts reading the text) "In Friar Lawrence's cell. So smile the heavens upon this holy act, That after-hours with sorrow chide us not! Amen, amen! But come what sorrow can, It cannot countervail the exchange of joy That one short minute gives me in her sight. Do thou but close our hands with holy words, Then love-devouring death do what he dare, It is enough I may but call her mine."

David: I didn't know that Maple knew Shakespeare.

Paul: Yeah, who knew?

Maple: "Conceit, more rich in matter than in words, Brags of his substance, not of ornament; They are but beggars that can count their worth, But my true love is grown to such excess I cannot sum up sum of half my wealth. Come, come with me, and we will make short work, For by your leaves, you shall not stay alone Till Holy Church incorporate two in one." (bows to Mrs. Ungerman)

Mrs. Ungerman: (impressed by her recital) Very impressive, Miss Howler. I take you're quite a Shakespeare buff. ^^

Maple: I wouldn't say "buff," but I DO enjoy his works. ^^

Mrs. Ungerman: I see.

\*Then, the class was over, and David, Paul, and Maple head to their next class. The next class Maple was attending with the Comicgers was gym class, where she changed into the school's gym clothes to partake in the class. Unfortunately, Mind Trap was unable to read their minds because they were heading to the door to leave the classroom, not to mention Gerald and Harold interfering with her first attempt, but she thinks that she might have better luck with this class.\*

Coach Icebear: Now, students! You're all here to climb up THAT rope, and ring the little bell at the top of the ceiling!  (points to the top of the ceiling where the bell was at the other end of the climbing rope)

David: (raising his hand) Uh, coach? That's about 50 feet above the floor.

Coach Icebear: Yeah, I know! Which is why not a lot of students were able to accomplish this task! Not even Keiko himself!

William: Yup. It's true.

Maple: (thinking that it's nothing) Oh, c'mon, guys! It doesn't look so tough.  I can probably climb the whole thing with my eyes closed.

Coach Icebear: I appreciate your enthusiasm, Miss Howler, but I believe my students have what it takes to pull it off.

\*As Coach Icebear continues to give the details on the rope climb, Mind Trap listens in, waiting for the right moment to read the Comicgers' minds.\*

Mind Trap: Okay, this might be my big chance here. (begins to charge up her mind powers)

\*As she was trying to do so, she fails to realize that Steve was coming up right behind her, and notices that she was one of Darkanos' monsters.\*

Steve: Hey, wait a minute! Aren't you one of Darkanos' monsters?

Mind Trap: (quickly turning around to see Steve) What the? A Comicger!!! You weren't supposed to see me!

Steve: Well, now I did! Now, I'm gonna have to ask you to leave the school premises! (holds up his Liberty Turner, and pushes a button on it) Liberty Powers! Turn On! (morphs into his Ranger form)

Mind Trap: No matter! I'll dig deep into YOUR psyche, and see what I can find! (charges at Steve, and starts fighting with him)

\*Then, Steve draws his Holo-Shield, and starts fighting with Mind Trap. As Steve came at her with his martial arts skills, Mind Trap was able to catch him with her mind powers, and picks him up. She threw him towards the wall, but Steve was able to find his footing, and bounces off the wall, throwing a lunging punch at Mind Trap. While that was going on, the other Comicgers were trying their best to climb the rope to ring the bell, only to screw up a couple of times.\*

Alyssa: (trying her best to climb the rope, only to fall down it halfway up) Rats!

William: (trying to climb up the rope thinking that his strength would be a big key factor) Okay! I think I can do it! (starts sliding back down, burning his hands in the process) OWOWOWOWOWOWOWOWOW!!!!!!! (blows on his hands to cool them off)

David: (trying to climb the rope as well, but falls down on the mat underneath it afterwards) Oh, darn it!

Coach Icebear: (getting annoyed) Oh, boy. Can no one accomplish this feat?

Maple: Well, I can take a crack at it. ^^

Coach Icebear: Okay, Miss Howler, give it a shot. ^^

Maple: Alright. ^^ (jumps onto the rope, and begins to climb up the rope)

\*Surprisingly enough, Maple was showing no sign of giving up, and was continuing her way up the rope. In fact, she actually did a lot better than the other students, and successfully reaches the top of the rope. After she rings the bell, and climbs back down, David, William, and Alyssa get buzzes on their Comic Turners, indicating that Steve is fighting with Mind Trap just outside the gym.\*

David: (approaching Coach Icebear) Uh, Coach, I gotta go to the nurse to have the burns on my hands looked at.

William: Yeah, me too. And, Alyssa needs to have hers looked at, too.

Alyssa: Yeah!

Coach Icebear: Well, okay. I guess it won't hurt to have those rope burns looked at.

David: Thanks, Coach. (leaves the gym with William and Alyssa)

\*When they got outside, they saw Steve fighting against Mind Trap, and trying to break out of her mind powers.\*

Steve: Oh, thank goodness you're here, kids!

David: (recognizing Mind Trap) Hey! Isn't that Mind Trap from Comicgers Issue #16?

Alyssa: Yeah! What's she doing here at school?

William: I dunno. But, she's gonna get a crash course on hiney-whoopin'!

David, William, and Alyssa: (holding up their Comic Turners) Comic Turners, activate! (the Comic Turners convert to their original forms) Comic Powers! Turn On! (flicking the on switch on their Comic Turners, and morphing into their Ranger forms)

David: (drawing his Sketch Blade) Hang on, Steve! We're coming! (charges in at Mind Trap)

\*William and Alyssa draw their Sketch Weapons, and charge at Mind Trap as well. As they started fighting with her, they start using their Sketch Weapons to strike at her, and help Steve out.\*

Steve: (feeling relieved) Oh, thanks for the assist, kids. (throws at side kick at Mind Trap)

David: No problem, Steve! (swings his Sketch Blade at Mind Trap)

\*But, as soon as the Blade comes close to Mind Trap, she levitates it using her mind powers, and throws it at the wall. As it goes flying, David runs over to get it. Alyssa tries to shoot a jet of water from her Sketch Trident at Mind Trap, but she uses her mind powers to stop it in its tracks, and flings it back at her. Steve jumps in front of her, and blocks the water with his Holo-Shield. While that was happening, William comes in with his Sketch Hammer, but Mind Trap projects a force field, and blocks the blows from the Hammer.\*

William: She does force fields, too?!? Why doesn't anyone tell me this stuff?!?

Alyssa: (approaching William with her Trident) Did you even READ the comic she was in, Will?

William: Okay, so I missed THAT issue! I had a game, Gosh darn it!

Alyssa: (rolling her eyes) Football players.

Mind Trap: Okay, enough horse-play! Let's see what on your minds, Comicgers! (begins to use her mind powers to read the Comicgers' minds)

\*Then, Mind Trap starts reading the Comicgers' minds, and she finds some very juicy secrets about them.\*

William: (in deep thought) "I hope the others don't find out that I still sleep with a night light because I'm afraid of the dark."

Steve: (in deep thought) "I still can't believe I used to wear newspapers in my shoes to make myself look taller back in the 40s."

Alyssa: (in deep thought) "I'm actually half Jewish on my mother's side."

David: (in deep thought) "I have a deep and secret fascination with ladies that wear hoods covering their faces."

Mind Trap: Oh, wow!!!! This is incredible! I'm sure this'll be great info that'll be sure to destroy you twerps!

David: (not believing what happened) What happened? Did we just blurt out secrets we didn't want anyone else to know?!?

William: You're half Jewish, Alyssa?

Alyssa: And, YOU'RE afraid of the dark, Will?

Steve: (not believing that his secret was out) Oh, God! I can't believe one of my secrets was let out!

\*Then, the Comicgers start to run away to try and recuperate, and Mind Trap believed that she did a good job. Just then, Maple comes out of the gym to see what all the noise was about, and sees Mind Trap about to leave the school.\*

Maple: Hey, what's goin' on out here? (sees the Comicgers de-morphing, and trying to repress those secrets) What the...??? (sees Mind Trap) Hey, you! What did you do to my friends?

Mind Trap: (turning around to see Maple) The same thing I'm gonna do to you, honey! (uses her mind powers to read Maple's mind, and finds something she tried to hide from the others)

Maple: (in deep thought) "I have a bit of a fangirl crush on Wolfagorn from 'Lord of the Pigs.' I mean, can anyone blame me? The dude is such a hunk."

David, William, Steve, and Alyssa: HUH?!?

Maple: Yeah, I know! I've got issues.  But, sometimes I can't help myself.

Mind Trap: Well, I guess my work here is done. ^^ I'll be back for the others later! Have fun wallowing in your not-so-deep secrets, Rangers.  (disappears from the school, and returns to the fortress)

\*After that, Paul, Katie, and Monica show up, and after seeing that the others have all fallen victim to Mind Trap, and ran over to help them out.\*

Paul: What happened to you guys? You look like you've seen something that mentally disturbed you!

David: It was Mind Trap, you guys! She got into our heads, and fished out our deepest, darkest secrets!

William: Now, thanks to her, you guys know that I'm afraid of the dark, and that Alyssa's half Jewish!

Steve: Not to mention, David's little interest in hooded girls.

David: Oh, my God!

Alyssa: But, all THAT was nothing compared to Maple's big secret: she actually has a crush on Wolfagorn from "Lord of the Pigs"!

Monica: After seeing the way she was drooling over him at Crystal Comics, I'm not TOO surprised.

Maple: I'm sorry, you guys. But, you know how I am with that franchise.

Steve: Anyway, we gotta stop Mind Trap before she gets to you guys as well!

Katie: Oh, yeah! C'mon, let's contact Mr. Chippendale! He'll probably know what to do!

David: Yeah, if Dad doesn't have the answer, we're screwed!

Katie: Yeah! Let's go!

\*Then, they duck down into a nearby corner to contact Stanley, and tell him what's been going on.\*

Katie: (contacting Stanley) Mr. Chippendale! We have a situation here at school. One of Darkanos' monsters, Mind Trap, is here at school.

Stanley: "Oh, dear! She didn't try to read your minds, did she?"

Katie: She didn't get me, Paul, and Monica, thankfully. But, as for David and the others, well....

Paul: We've learned that your son loves hooded women thanks to her.

Stanley: "Oh, I was afraid of this. Well, if she's still running around, you'd better make sure she doesn't try to get to the rest of you, as well. She'll try to break your psyches until she digs out your deepest, darkest secrets, and you might be humiliated for the rest of your lives."

Monica: Is that what Darkanos had in mind?

Stanley: "I'm sure it is. Although, I'm mostly concerned if those secrets were heard by anyone other than you all."

Katie: No, I don't think so.

Stanley: "Well, I'm sure you'll all handle a little bit of teasing and what not. Just try to carry on with the rest of your school day as normal. I'll look through the comics, and figure out how to defeat Mind Trap. I'll be in touch, kids."

Katie: Okay, Mr. Chippendale. (cuts the feed) He's trying to find a way for us to beat her. In the meantime, we should try to get on with our school day as normal.

Maple: Okay, good. 'Cause I'm not gonna let one silly little secret stop me from spending one day back in high school. I even got to the top of the rope during gym class. ^^

Paul, Katie, Steve, and Monica: WHAT?!?

Monica: Nobody's been able to accomplish such a feat!

David: But, she did it no problem. ^^ Will, Alyssa, and I just got burned. :/

Steve: I had no idea. But, anyway, you all better get to class. I'm sure we'll shrug off this whole thing once Mr. Chippendale finds out how to beat Mind Trap.

Maple: Okay. What's my next class?

David: Science with Dr. Frankenshell. ^^

Maple: Oh, sweet! That'll be fun! Let's go!

\*Then, after changing back into her school uniform, Maple accompanies David to his next class. At the science class, Dr. Frankenshell was going over the tides and the phases of the moon with everyone.\*

Dr. Frankenshell: Okay. Who can tell me how the phases of the moon effects the tides on the beach?

\*A couple of students, including Maple, raise their hands to give him the answer.\*

Dr. Frankenshell: (picks Maple) Hmmmmm. Miss Howler. How about you?

Maple: Tides are created because the Earth and the moon are attracted to each other, just like magnets are attracted to each other. The moon tries to pull at anything on the Earth to bring it closer. But, the Earth is able to hold onto everything except the water. Since the water is always moving, the Earth can't hold onto it, and the moon is able to pull at it. Each day, there are two high tides and two low tides. The ocean is constantly moving from high tide to low tide, and then back to high tide. There is about 12 hours and 25 minutes between the two high tides.

Dr. Frankenshell: Very interesting, Miss Howler. But, could you tell the class why there are two tides each?

Maple: Gladly, sir. ^^ When the sun and moon are aligned, there are exceptionally strong gravitational forces, causing very high and very low tides which are called spring tides. When the sun and moon are not aligned, the gravitational forces cancel each other out, and the tides are not as dramatically high and low. These are called neap tides.

Dr. Frankenshell: Very good, Miss Howler! I see you've been studying. ^^

Maple: Yeah, well. I did a lot of it last night. ^^

Dr. Frankenshell: Well, it's paying off, I must say.  Now, could you kindly explain to the class the spring tides and the neap tides?

Maple: Well, when the moon is full or new, the gravitational pull of the moon and sun are combined. At these times, the high tides are very high and the low tides are very low. This is known as a spring high tide. Spring tides are especially strong tides. And no, they don't have anything to do with the season Spring, unfortunately. They occur when the Earth, the Sun, and the Moon are in a line. The gravitational forces of the Moon and the Sun both contribute to the tides. Spring tides occur during either the full or new moon. As for neap tides, they occur during the moon's quarter phases the sun and moon work at right angles, causing the bulges to cancel each other. The result is a smaller difference between high and low tides and is known as a neap tide. Neap tides are especially weak tides. They occur when the gravitational forces of the Moon and the Sun are perpendicular to one another. Neap tides occur during quarter moons.

David: Well, so far so good. No one's noticed about our secrets.

\*After science class, it was time for lunch. On their way to the cafeteria, the Comicgers decide to use this time to head over to the studio to see if Stanley has any information on how to stop Mind Trap from destroying the city.\*

Monica: Well, did anyone say anything about your secrets?

David: Thankfully, no. But, you never know for sure.

Steve: Well, let's quickly get to the studio. And, if anyone starts whispering to each other when we walk by, just ignore it, and walk away.

Maple: Good idea, Steve! Let's get going!

\*Then, the Comicgers quickly made their way to the studio, trying to avoid any gossip regarding their deep, dark secrets. Once they were able to get to the studio, they check to see if Stanley has made any progress, and look out the window to see if anyone's following them.\*

Alyssa: Well, I think we're safe!

William: Yeah, I think so! Although, that one turtle lady gave us a funny, though. But, we got outta there very quickly.

David: It's a good thing we did.  (turns to Stanley) Well, Dad? Is there a way for us to beat Mind Trap?

Stanley: Well, David. In order to weaken Mind Trap, we'll have to outsmart her with some kind of mathematical equation. If there's one thing she prides herself on, it's her incredible intelligence. She likes to be challenged with something that exercises that big brain of hers. And, because of this, she believes that there's nothing she can't figure out. So, if we give her an equation that's nearly impossible to solve, she might get frustrated with trying to solve it, and get weak as a result.

Monica: Yeah, it's a good thing that you found that out. I'm sure that there's an equation that might stump the likes of her. Not everyone is THAT smart!

Katie: Yeah! I'll look for something in my math book that I'm sure will be able to stump her no problem.  (takes the math book out of her book bag, and starts looking through it for an equation for her to try and solve)

Stanley: Good for you, Katie. In the meantime, I'd like to know what exactly Mind Trap revealed when she got to David and the others.

Steve: Well, aside from David's hooded lady fetish, we've also learned that William's afraid of the dark, and that Alyssa's half Jewish.

Alyssa: Not to mention that Steve used to wear newspapers in his shoes.

Steve: >///////<

William: But, without question, the craziest thing we've learned is that Maple actually has a crush on Wolfagorn from "Lord of the Pigs." However, considering that she might've hinted at it a couple times at Crystal Comics, I'm not as surprised to learn that.

Stanley: Is this true, Maple?

Maple: Well, yes. It's true. Wolfagorn is such a hunky character, and Viggo Howlenson portrays him nearly flawlessly. Every time I read about him in the books, or see him in the movies, I just... (sighs) Get taken aback by him.

Stanley: I see. But, what were you doing at school when Mind Trap attacked, Maple? Were you applying for a part-time job there?

Maple: Actually, I was getting a little bored of my usual routine at my job at Crystal Comics, so the other Comicgers decided that I should mix it up a bit by having me relive what high school was like. Hence why I'm wearing my old high school uniform from Japan.  I was actually enjoying it TOO much, showcasing my knowledge of things so much because I was older than the kids in class.  Guess I'm ahead of the pack.

Stanley: Well, Maple, I'm glad you're mixing things up a bit by attending high school again. It's good to change up what you do from time to time. But, I personally don't think this is a good way to do so. I mean, you have YEARS of experience beyond those kids, so having you answer all the questions perfectly KINDA makes your classmates feel a bit discouraged. I'm not saying this is a bad thing, it's just that, for future reference, try not to do anything that MIGHT make you "hip" with the younger generation.

Maple: Yeah, that's what everyone keeps telling me, Mr. Chippendale. Don't worry, though. I'll remember that for future reference. ^^

Stanley: Very good, Maple. (admiring her uniform) Although, I must say, you look absolutely adorable in your school uniform. ^^

Paul: Yeah, Mr. C. She kinda looks like Princess Galaxy in that outfit.

Maple: (feeling embarrassed) I do NOT!

Monica: (looking at Maple more closely) She's right, guys! She doesn't. All she needs is a few meatballs on her head, and she'll be good to go.

Maple: MONICA!!!! >////<

Monica: Hey, I'm only trying to help!

Katie: (looking through her math book, and finding a good equation that they can use on Mind Trap) A-ha! Here's a good one we can use on her. (shows the equation to Stanley)

Stanley: (looking at the equation very carefully) Hmmmmmm. This is a very interesting equation, Katie. I think it'll do her in no problem. ^^

David: (looking at the equation as well) Yeah, Katie! I have a feeling that she won't solve it in any way!

Paul: (looking as well) Yeah, totally! (hearing the tracking system go off) And, not a moment too soon! 'Cause it sounds like Mind Trap's causing trouble in the city!

Stanley: (going over to the tracking system, and bringing up an image of Mind Trap getting into the minds of various people) Well, she's in the downtown area, exposing more secrets of more people!

David: Don't worry, Dad! Once we give her that equation, she won't be doing any of THAT anymore!

Monica: Hang on! Aren't you guys worried that she might try and read your minds again?

David: There isn't much for her to get at, now! And, besides, we're not gonna let that big-brained floozy read our minds anymore!

Monica: I hope you're right, for YOUR sake! Right now, we gotta move!

Paul: I'll be sure to bring a giant chalkboard with us so we can right the equation down on it!

David: You do that, Paul!

Maple: C'mon, guys! Let's knock a couple of IQ points off that monster!

David: Say no more, Maple! (holds up his Comic Turner) Ready, guys?

Steve, William, Paul, Alyssa, Monica, Katie, and Maple: (holding up theirs) Ready!

Comicgers: Comic Turners, activate! (the Comic Turners convert to their original forms) Comic Powers!

Steve: (pushing a button on his Liberty Turner) Liberty Powers!

Maple: (flicking the on switch on her Platinum Turner) Platinum Powers!

Comicgers: Turn On! (flicking the on switch on their Comic Turners, and morphing into their Ranger forms)

\*Then, the Comicgers quickly get on their Sketch Cycles (with Alyssa sharing Paul's ride), Steve gets on his ATV, and Maple gets on her Platinum 3-Wheeler, and they start making their way to the downtown area to stop Mind Trap. While there, Mind Trap was digging deep into people's psyches, and exposing some deep, personal secrets about them. Orvomon and Vistosam were looking on while scarfing down on some hot dogs.\*

Mind Trap: Oh, goodie! I've been getting so many secrets out of these poor souls! It's a great day for me!

Vistosam: I must say, Orvomon. This monster's REALLY doing a good job on the people of Petropolis.

Orvomon: Yes, she definitely is the smartest monster in the master's army!

\*Then, the Comicgers quickly pull up on their Cycles, and Paul and Alyssa start pulling a giant chalkboard in front of the bad guys in hopes of goating Mind Trap into trying to solve the equation.\*

William: This better work, Katie!

Katie: It's the only chance we got, Will!

David: Well, we'll distract those two bozos over there! (points at Vistosam and Orvomon) You guys focus on Mind Trap!

Paul: You got it, David!

Maple: Let's do it, guys!

\*Then, Paul and Alyssa pull the chalkboard right in front of Mind Trap, and she stops in her tracks to see what was going on.\*

Mind Trap: Oh, the Comicgers again!  Ready for me to expose MORE of your secrets?

Paul: Actually, Mind Trap, we know for a fact that you're the smartest monster in Darkanos' army. So, let's see how you handle a little algebraic equation? Alyssa?

Alyssa: (turning over the chalkboard, revealing the equation to Mind Trap) Alright, Mind Trap! Let's see you solve THIS bad boy!

Mind Trap: Are you kiddin', me? I'm the smartest monster in Darkanos' army. So, there's NO problem I can't solve! Lemme at it! (grabs a piece of chalk, and begins to solve the equation) Watch the master at work!

\*As Mind Trap tries her best to solve the equation, Orvomon and Vistosam suspect that there was something going on, only to be stopped by the other Comicgers.\*

Orvomon: Out of our way, you little brats!

Vistosam: We know what your friends are trying to do!

David: Well, by the time she figures it out, it'll be too late!

David, William, Monica, and Katie: Astro Gold! Turn On! (pushing down on their Comic Turners, and the Astro Gold Armor appears on them)

Maple: (drawing her Platinum Rifle) I'll take the girls, and deal with Vistosam! You guys take the piggy!

David: You got it, Maple!

Orvomon: PARAXIS, ARISE!!!!

\*Then, the Paraxis materialize in front of Orvomon and Vistosam.\*

Vistosam: Get them, you fools!

\*Then, the Paraxis draw their laser spears, and attack the Paraxis.\*

David: Let's go, guys!

\*The Comicgers charge towards the Paraxis, and they begin to fight with them along with Orvomon and Vistosam. Steve was blocking the strikes from the Paraxis' laser spears with his Holo-Shield, and pushes them back with it. As he proceeds to fight with them, David flips forward to avoid the blasts from the Paraxis' laser spears, and fires at them with his own laser spears. As he clashes his spear with theirs, William was dealing with the Paraxis by thrusting his spear at them. Then, Orvomon starts coming at William with his mace, and he quickly dodges the strike by using his fancy footwork.\*

Orvomon: Why can't you just hold still so I can hit you properly?

William: Oh, Orvomon, where's the fun in THAT?  (dodges another swing of Orvomon's mace, and uppercuts him in the gut)

\*While William and Orvomon were fighting it out, the girls were fighting their way through the Paraxis, and eventually heading towards Vistosam, who comes at them with his laser rapier.\*

Katie: How about some girl power?

Monica: You said it, girlfriend!

\*Then, Katie and Monica double team against the Paraxis who fire their laser spears at them. After dodging the blasts, they started coming in with their laser spears, and knocked them to the ground. While they were handling the Paraxis, Maple comes at Vistosam with her Platinum Rifle, firing it at him while he fires lasers from his rapier at her.\*

Vistosam: Well, you're not Comic Pink, but you're VERY high-spirited, and I like that.

Maple: Sorry, pal! I'm spoken for! (throws a roundhouse kick at Vistosam)

\*Then, Vistosam thrusts his rapier at Maple, which she blocks with her Platinum Rifle. She then hits him in the chin, and sweep kicks him underneath. Vistosam comes at her with a right hook, but she blocks it, and elbows him in the chest. While all that was going on, Mind Trap was still hard at work trying to piece together the equation, and she's starting to struggle a bit with trying to figure it out.\*

Mind Trap: So, the logarithm didn't work! But, I DO know that z = x - 17 + y2. But, THIS corner isn't part of the equation! What was the highest total I got so far again?

Paul: 26.

Mind Trap: AUGH!!! Too high for x! But, hold on! That means x is half the value of the sum of both corners! And, y can't be negative, so it has to be above 0! And, x = z + 17 - y2, and since 26 is TOO high for x, but 26 + 23 = 49... so... 7!!! (realizes that something's off) No, wait!!! That's not right!

\*As Mind Trap continues to figure out the equation, her mind powers begin to weaken as she continues to get it wrong. Paul and Alyssa look on, and see that it's working.\*

Alyssa: Paul, it's working!!!

Paul: I sure hope she doesn't find out that we outfoxed her.

Mind Trap: (still trying her best to solve the equation) No, that can't be right! z can't equal 27, so I might have to carry the 2 over a bit! (continues working on the equation trying to solve it) Hang on! That's not right, either!!! (tries to solve for x again, but keep manages to come up short) Oh, dear! What am I doing wrong here?

\*As Mind Trap continues to try and figure out the equation, her mind powers begin to weaken, and she starting to get more and more frustrated by the second. As she tries to piece it together, Paul and Alyssa start to notice her weakening powers, and decide to take action against her.\*

Mind Trap: (eventually giving up on the equation) I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE!!!! You twerps have stumped me!!!  (suddenly catches onto it) Wait! You two expected me to screw up on this!

Paul: Well, if you'd like to know the right answer to this equation, then it's actually an overly complicated version of THIS!!!! (turns the chalkboard and reveals the answer was actually 1 + 1 = 2) See?

Mind Trap: (realizing that she was tricked) Why you insolent, feeble-brained children!!! (starts attacking Paul and Alyssa)

Paul: Astro Gold! Turn On! (presses down on his Comic Turner, and the Astro Gold Armor appears on him) Now, that we beat her with brains, let's beat her with brawn, Alyssa!

Alyssa: (drawing her Sketch Trident) Oh, yes! Let's!

\*Then, Paul and Alyssa begin fighting with Mind Trap now that her mind powers have been weakened from that equation. Paul thrusts his laser spear at Mind Trap, and she tried to project a force field to protect herself, but because her powers have been weakened, Paul was able to break through it, and strike at her. Then, Alyssa thrusts her Sketch Trident at her, and lands a good enough hit on her. Mind Trap tries to levitate them off the ground, but she could only be able to lift them a few inches off the ground.\*

Mind Trap: No! It can't be! My powers are getting weaker because of that stupid equation!

Paul: Yup. Just like we'd hoped!  (points his laser spear at her) Now, think fast! (fires his laser spear at her)

\*The laser blast caused Mind Trap to let go off them, and drop on her backside. After getting back up, she decides to read their minds again, and try to mentally humiliate them again.\*

Mind Trap: Now, let's try and see if I can read your fragile little minds again! (begins reading their minds)

\*However, the only thing that Mind Trap was able to get out of them because her powers weakening was them believing that they got her beat.\*

Paul: (in thought) "A-ha! We got you, Mind Trap!"

Alyssa: (in thought) "You bet we do!"

Mind Trap: WHAT?!? I can't dive into your feeble brains, either!!!

Paul: That's right! So, now, you're finished!  (aims his laser spear at Mind Trap) Astro Gold Laser Spear! Power Up! (powers up the spear) Ready! Aim! FIRE!!!! (fires a green blast at Mind Trap)

\*Then, Mind Trap gets sent flying backwards and lands flat on her face. The other Comicgers quickly see this, and join up with Paul and Alyssa.\*

David: Well, did it work?

Alyssa: Like a charm.

Monica: And, don't worry about Orvomon and Vistosam! Steve and Maple are still dealing with them. ^^

Paul: Oh, that's good.

Blaludon: (appearing next to Mind Trap as she tries to get back up) Alright, then! Let's increase this monster's IQ, shall we? (blows one of her magic kisses at Mind Trap, making her grow)

Mind Trap: Alright! Now, I'm gonna give you a piece of my mind!

William: (seeing how big Mind Trap got) Whoa! That's a whole lotta grey matter!

David: Well, we got the firepower to match! (contacts Stanley) Dad! Send the Astro Gold Flyers!

Stanley: On the way, son! (uses his gemstone to bring the Astro Gold Flyers to life, and sends them to the Comicgers' current location)

David: (seeing them coming) Okay! Thanks, Dad! (cuts the feed)

Alyssa: I'll stay behind, and help Steve and Maple out! (runs off to help Steve and Maple)

David: Good idea, Alyssa! C'mon, guys! Let's bash some brains in!

\*Then, the Comicgers leap into the Astro Gold Flyers, and begin to log on.\*

David: Astro Red Alpha, standing by!

William: Astro Blue Beta, standing by!

Paul: Astro Green Gamma, standing by!

Monica: Astro Yellow Delta, standing by!

Katie: Astro Pink Epsilon, standing by!

David: Okay, guys! Let's form the Astro Gold Space Robo!

\*Then, the Astro Gold Flyers come together to form the Astro Gold Space Robo.\*

Mind Trap: My mind powers may have been weakened, but I can still do THIS! (starts levitating the AGSR into the air)

David: This isn't what I meant when I said I wanted a raise!

\*As Mind Trap was levitating the AGSR in the air, Alyssa joined Steve and Maple when they were fighting Orvomon and Vistosam. She thrusts her Sketch Trident at the two villains, and even shot a couple of water blasts at them in the process. This made Steve and Maple very relieved for her help.\*

Steve: Oh, thanks so much for your help, Alyssa. ^^

Alyssa: Anytime, Steve. ^^

Orvomon: Ah, a third Comicger, eh? Well, that makes bashing them even MORE fun.

Vistosam: Whatever you say.

Maple: C'mon, guys! Let's kick their hand-drawn butts!

\*Then, Steve, Maple, and Alyssa start fighting Orvomon and Vistosam while the others were trying to deal with Mind Trap. Orvomon and Vistosam tried their best to land a hit on the Comicgers, but they were too much for them, and were defeated very easily.\*

Orvomon: Boy, they're getting better and better with each encounter!

Vistosam: True. But, one day, we'll be able to beat these twerps! (turns to the Comicgers) We'll settle this later, Comicgers! (disappears back to the fortress with Orvomon)

Maple: Hmph. What a bunch of scaredy cats!  Now, to help out the others!

Steve: Good idea, Maple! Let's go! (runs off with Maple and Alyssa)

\*Back with the others, they decide to use the AGSR's thrusters to break free from Mind Trap's mind powers.\*

Monica: Alright, guys! Let's use the thrusters to try and break free from her mind control!

David: Good idea, Monica! Let's do it! (engages the thrusters)

\*Sure enough, the AGSR uses the thrusters to break free from the mind control, and flies towards Mind Trap, knocking her over with some flying punches. As Mind Trap gets back up, she tries to trap them again, but gets hit by the Liberty Comic Rider Robo, who was using the Platinum Blasters on her.\*

Steve: Hey, kids! Need some help?

William: You bet we do!

Paul: And, we could use some extra firepower!

Alyssa: You got it, Paul! Let's send this big-brained weirdo back to the comics!

\*The LCRR speeds past Mind Trap, and damages her in the process. Then, the AGSR draws its Twin Astro Gold Blades, and starts striking at Mind Trap with them. Mind Trap tries to protect herself with her force fields, but they kept on shattering every time the blades made contact with her. Then, the LCRR fires the Platinum Blaster at her, and it destroys her force fields, and knocks her back a bit.\*

Mind Trap: Oh, this is NOT good!

Maple: Okay, kids! Time to end this!

David: You've read my mind, Maple!

\*Then, the AGSR to fly up into the sky.\*

Comicgers: Twin Astro Gold Blades! Final Attack!

\*Then, the AGSR starts flying down as the Twin Blades start glowing a bright gold glow. It spins around to perform its final attack, and as it comes back down to the ground, it slashes through Mind Trap, slicing her straight across the middle.\*

Mind Trap: NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! This ain't what I had in mind at all! (falls down and explodes, sending her spirit back to the comics)

\*Back at school, Dr. Frankenshell was teaching a freshman class about basic science, and one of the students was secretly reading Issue #16 of the Comicgers comics. Once Mind Trap's spirit finds the copy, she gets zapped into it, which caught Dr. Frankenshell's attention.\*

Dr. Frankenshell: Where'd that flash of light come from?

Class: (pointing at the kid reading the comic)

Dr. Frankenshell: (approaching the kid) Mr. Anderson, are you reading one of those Comicgers comics while I'm trying to discuss the science of probability?

Anderson: Uh-oh.

Dr. Frankenshell: Hand it over.

Anderson: (giving him the comic)

Dr. Frankeshell: You can have this back at the end of class! (goes back to his desk) Now, where was I?

\*Back at Darkanos' fortress, Darkanos wasn't really happy to hear that Mind Trap has been sent back to the comics.\*

Darkanos: WHAT A FOOL I WAS!!!! Mind Trap wasn't the smartest monster in my army!!! She was just as stupid as all the others! And, I was stupid enough to believe it!!!!

Orvomon: Please, master! We're sorry! I'm sure we'll get those twerps next time!

Vistosam: Oh, yes, my liege! We will!

Darkanos: We had better! My patience with those twerps is growing thin! (starts walking off) Those brats have definitely gotten stronger this year! But, it won't matter. One of these days, they will surely suffer! (clenches his fist in anger, making it glow purple)

\*After school, the Comicgers all regrouped at Crystal Comics, like they always do, and Big Louie begins to ask them about their day at school.\*

Big Louie: So, how was school today, kids?

David: Not bad, Big Louie. ^^ Although, that logarithm pop quiz was hard as heck!

Monica: Yeah. I told you so.

Katie: Well, you definitely had a point there, girl.

Big Louie: (turns to Maple) And, Maple. How was your first day back at high school?

Maple: It was actually very fun, Big Louie. It was exactly what I needed to break it up from my usual routine. I definitely was the top of the class that day!

Paul: Yeah, she knew all the answers before any of us could answer! It didn't REALLY seem fair.

Maple: Yeah, I know. Principal Kensington eventually found out that I actually wasn't an exchange student from Japan, and have been living in America for quite some time.  She let me continue the school day, but I had to leave the school once it was over. And, I think that was for the better, since I kinda preferred to stay here and work at Crystal Comics.

Big Louie: I think that's a good move, Maple. It was kinda lonely here without you.

Maple: I know. But, while I was at school, I felt like I was closer to these kids than I ever did before. It was like I was actually one of them. ^^

William: Awwww, get outta town, Maple.

Maple: No, really! In some funny way, I actually felt like a kid again. But, it's one experience I probably won't be doing again. For the sake of you getting your education.

Alyssa: Yeah, that's probably for the better.

Steve: Besides, Big Louie needs you here. Ever since you got the job here, his workload has definitely decreased. ^^

Big Louie: It's true. ^^

Maple: Fair enough. Starting tomorrow, I'll be back to Crystal Comics.

David: Good for you.

\*As the Comicgers made their way to the reading lounge, Gerald and Harold come in, and try to tackle Maple, thinking that she was a spy for Wreckage.\*

Gerald: Get away from our classmates, you traitorous witch!!! (puts her in an arm lock)

Harold: I got the bindings, Gerald! (binds Maple's ankles with a twisty tie)

Steve: Gerald! Harold! What on Earth are you...?!?

Gerald: YOU'RE WELCOME!!!! We saved you all from becoming potential T.O.O.R. soldiers!

Harold: I mean, think about it! She's married to their leader! So, it makes sense that she would be sent undercover as a student to try and get you all to join!

David: Maple was attending school with us because she wanted to mix things up from her daily routine.

Katie: Yeah, just because she's Wreckage's wife, it doesn't mean that she joined his organization! (starts questioning it) Did you?

Maple: No way! I may love him, but I'll never join his villainous organization! The poor guy basically chose world domination over raising a family with me.

Monica: So, set her free!

Gerald + Harold: (looking on with dumbfounded looks) .......

Gerald: Oh, yeah!  We didn't think you actually WERE T.O.O.R. material.  Harold, set her free!

Harold: (cutting the twisty ties off of Maple)

Gerald: We are SO sorry, Miss Howler. It was just a case of mistaken identity.

Harold: Yeah! In fact, I think I hear my mom calling, so Gerald and I are just gonna go.

Gerald: Yeah. Well, see ya tomorrow, you guys! (runs out of the store with Harold)

Paul: Those guys just don't learn, do they?

William: Nope.

Maple: But, no harm done. ^^ Now, let's get back to our normal lives. ^^

Monica: (looking at Steve funny) So, WHY did you put newspapers in your shoes again, Steve?

Steve: It's a long story.  But, it all started on a cold, wintery day in Brooklyn. Y'see...

\*Then, the Comicgers sat down in the reading lounge to listen to Steve's story on why he wears newspapers in his shoes.\*

THE END