CHAPTER ONE: 

It was a beautifull crisp Autumn afternoon in the close-knit town of Bayport Massachusetts. The local mall had been bustling with the usual afternoon crowd consisting mainly of Students from Bayport's High School and Community College And it appeared as if they all had the same destination, "Mr. Pizza" the Italian restaurant owned and operated by Tony Prito and his family, who also operated "Prito

Construction," yet another successfull local Business. Tony and his family were once again swamped with orders from hungry patrons, and the dinner rush hadn't even started yet. Antonio Prito came out of the back office, as usual the place was hopping. He smiled at his success and glanced proudly at his two sons Tony and Mic who were working their butts off. Antonio was very proud of both of his boys, especially after his beloved wife Sophia had been taken away from them. She had discovered a lump in her breast and went to the doctors right away, tragically however the tests revealed that it was just too late to save her, the lovely dark haired italian woman had barely enough time to finalize her last wishes and to say a tearfull goodbye to her loved ones. Antonio had proven to be much stronger than even he imagined, with two young sons to raise alone, not to mention handling part ownership of not one but two companies which had all proven to be great sucesses. This of course, made Antonio a very tired but proud man who thankfully didn't have much time left over to let his grief overcome him, which he knew would. His blue eyes glistened as he realized that his wife would also be proud of him, in fact those words were exactly what she had told him just before she passed away at the young age of 36. He wiped a stray tear away, then took another look around at the busy resteraunt. He recognized many of the regulars most of them local students, then his smile brightened at the group sitting at a table at the back of the room. They were giving their order to a extremely good looking Blond boy with the most sparkling sapphire eyes. He turned right about then and smiled as his dazzling eyes met Mr. Prito's. Quickly the young man came over to the counter to prepare their order. Mr. Prito walked over to his employee deciding to show his appreciation to this boy who has become just like another son to him.  

"Hi Joey, how is everything going?" He asked as Joe continued to set up a tray with cups and a pitcher each of coke and sprite. He then placed a stack of napkins, plates and plastic silverware on another tray. Joe Hardy looked up and smiled at his boss who was like a second father to him and his brother Frank.  

"Hi ya Mr. Prito, everything is cool, so far " Joe replied with a good natured laugh. "Actually it has been an unusually uneventfull last few days." Joe added, obviously reffering to the lack of detective work being thrown their way. Joe only worked part time at "Mr. Pizza" to

help pay for expenses and to help out his friends the Pritos while Frank worked for a local computer company part time as well. But the

Hardy boys full time Job and their life long passion was to be detectives like their famous father Fenton Hardy. Mr. Prito was very proud

of the boys sucesses in solving cases, however he did share the same misgivings about the continued risks this kind of career would be

present to not only the Hardy Brothers whom he admired greatly but to his own sons and their other very close-knit friends like Chet Morton,Vanessa Bender,Biff Hooper and Callie Shaw. Anonio glanced over to the table which now held most of these "children" he just mentioned, They were now joined by Phil Cohen and a few others. " But if you please excuse me, I think the gang is starting to give me

dirty looks. That won't bode well for me when it comes for them to leave a tip ya know." He joked. Mr. Prito patted his back and sent him on his way. 

" Ha! don't let those cheapskates stiff ya my boy!" He replied laughing at Joe's humor then went to help Tony at the pizza oven. Joe winked and picked up both trays beginning to carry them over. He was half way to the table when he felt some one bump into him. It was helpless to stop the tray of sodas from splashing everywhere as Both they and Joe Hardy went down. All over the room people stopped doing whatever they were doing to stare curiously at the sight of Joseph Hardy sprwled out on the floor with a tray and half

empty pitchers of sticky soda all over him. Joe shook his head, trying to stop from screaming. It was humiliating sure, But that

famous Joe Hardy temper was threatening to erupt. All around his people started to laugh. Then he heard a voice, A female voice, It was like soothing music which Joe wanted to hear more of, problem was it wasn't his girlfriend Vanessa who belonged to it.  

"Ooh look what you did to my new dress!" The mystery woman exclaimed. Joe Hardy may have a fierce temper but he could never ever deny a damsel in distress. especially now that he got a good look at the most stunning pair of green eye's he remembered seeing in a

long time. Even better they were matched in beauty only by the young girls long luxurious red hair which had been accented by a green

head band that perfectly matched her eyes. She had also fallen to the floor, her bright purple mini dress was just as covered with soda as Joe was. "Hrmph!!" She huffed as she grabbed a napkin and tried to wipe herself off. "I am going to send you a bill for.. " She had stopped in mid sentence as her lovely almond shaped jade eyes finally met Joe's own sparkling Sapphire ones.  

"Hey, you bumped into me! But being the gentleman that I am I will apologize first, I'm sorry" Joe said taking off where she left off. He had almost forgotten where they were, But the sudden presence behind him brought that reality crashing back.  

"Joe? Are you alright?" A silghtly agitated Vanessa Bender asked. She had witnessed the whole scene and felt that her boy scout of a boy friend was gazing just a little bit too intensly at the red headed hussy who had just barreled into him. Joe Hardy looked sheepishly up at his willowy blonde girlfriend accepting her hand to get up.  

"Daphne! are you ok!" A concerned voice rang out.  

"Yes Freddie I am fine, Or at least I will be when I get out of this dress" The pretty girl assured the gorgeous Blond guy who had rushed to her side, He rivaled Joe in the looks department and it was clearly obvious from the muscles which rippled through his tight white

dress shirt that this guy could be tough competition even for the athletically gifted Joseph Hardy. Fred Jones was certainly not some one who most people would want to mess with. Especially when it concerned Daphne Blake. His self appointed girl. Fred and Dahne had

never officially commited to being a couple, however it was assumed by just about everyone they met in their own career as ace teen

detectives and co-owners of "Mystery INc. Which they, along with partners and best friends Velma Dinkley, Norville "Shaggy" Rogers,

and the Canine member of their famous group Scoobert "Doo" .  

By this time Frank Hardy had already came over to stand beside his brother just incase Joe needed him, But Joe's dark haired older sibling by a year, had also hopped to stop the situation before his seventeen year old Blond haired "baby "bro lost his famous temper.

Mr. Prito also came forth with a towel for Daphne who accepted it gratefully.  

"I am so sorry miss, why don't you go to the ladies room and freshen up, then I will bring you and your friends a pizza to make up for your trouble? Antonio Prito asked hopping to avoid any more of a scene. Everyone stared at Daphne Blake as she contemplated how to react. then collectively sighed with relief when the teenage girl finally shook her head and smiled at Mr. Prito.  

" Thanks, I am sorry too, I should have watched where I was going." She apologized then turned to Joe. "Um.." she began to ask him his

name but noticed his name tag and continued addressing Joe. Vanessa and Freddie observing the pair very closely. "Joe, um, Mr. Hardy, I hope we can start over with a much better greeting. I am Daphne Blake and this big guy is Freddie Jones, my sweet but often over protective body guard. " The two blond teens reluctantly shook hands. Next Daphne pointed to a short bookish sort of girl with shoulder

length brown hair and feckles, She wore a pair of nerdish looking glasses. Velma smiled shyly as she was introduced. Phil cohen who had just joined them smiled at her without even realizing it. He could tell that this was a woman of obvious intellegence and Phil liked that in a woman. He could also see that she was kinda cute even with the thick glasses. Daphne looked around for the last two people

in their group when they heard someone exclaim as the restaurant doors opened allowing access to a very tall, thin and very scraggly

teen dressed in a long faded green T-shirt which must have been at least two sizes too big, and a worn out pair of denim jeans which matched his sneakers in the worn out department. His appearance warrented some attention perhaps, but it was the huge Great Dane

straining at the leash held by the reddish blond haired teen.  

"Scooby!! Like knock it off man!" The tall thin teen ordered. The dog stopped, spun around and looked up at his pal. He made a wimpering noise. "I know you are hungry buddy, but we have to be very carefull not to get kicked out ok? " He wispered in the dogs ear.  

"ROray, Raggy" was the quiet response only heard by the the dogs "owner". These two were in fact both partners and best friends. They came right up to the small group which was forming in the middle of the restaurant.  

"Hey guys right on time!" Daphne said with a smile as she introduced her good friends to the others. They all shook hands with each other. Joe and Mr. Prito excused themselves to finish cleaning the mess and filling their orders. But not before Mr. Prito had admitted that dogs were not supposed to be in there for health reasons only, He would have no problems with the world famous Scooby Doo being in his establishment.  

"Like, I am sorry man, Scoob and I will clear out after we give our dinner orders if it is ok with you?" Shaggy answered in a none hostile way, he had been through this many times, Shaggy also knew that he could not ever leave his best bud stuck eating in his car all alone.

sure, it did tend to affect the social life, Not that Norville Shaggy Rogers had one outside his own tight knit group of friends and all the

people the gang at mystery inc have worked together to help out. What did they care as long as they were fed, they were happy.  

Daphne giggled a bit, knowing that her friends would no doubt manage to not only weasle their way in, But they were probably already planning to eat everything in sight. "It was a good thing I brought my gold card" she reminded herself before going over to the register to order. 

Joe apologized to Mr. Prito who shrugged it off, then returned to the front counter to replace the soda's and get the rest of his friends pizza order together. This time Frank,Chet and Biff all offered to take a tray back to their table so Joe could finally get himself

cleaned up and start on the next order which was for the scooby gang. He went to the back room to where his locker was. Joe silently

thanked his mom for her suggestion that he keep a spare clean uniform in his locker "Just in case of situations like this." She had told him. Joe smiled at the memory of his pretty,petite mother Laura who looked remarkably like her youngest son Joseph while eighteen year old Frank was a younger image of the boys father Fenton. Joe had just taken his dirty shirt off and was stretching his strong arms over his head to pull the bright red uniform shirt, when he suddenly became aware of a presence behind him. his detective instincts had

already kicked into high gear. Joe spun around to come face to face with a somewhat startled Daphne Blake.  

"Are you trying to give me a heart attack girl!?" Joe exclaimed. Daphne did did not answer him right away, she was too busy trying to stop her cheeks from turning a shade as red as Joe's shirt which by the way hung just over Joe's strong shoulders. She knew she had to

quickly compose herself and figure a way to get out of admitting that she had been returning from the bathroom and came across him

changing, His well defind muscles rippling as he lifted the dirty shirt over his gorgeously wavy blond hair.  

"You do paint a pretty picture" she teased, now it was Joe's turn to blush. He finished pulling the new shirt over his head and shut his locker after placing the old one in a laundry bag. Daphne let out a sigh and held out her hand to him in greeting. After a brief moment

Joe accepted it. "Look Joey.." 

"It's Joe" Joe corrected.  

"OH right, sorry again, anyhow Joe I was hoping that we could all start over with our greeting?" She sincerely pleaded. Joe sighed as well and then flashed that equally famous Joe Hardy smile which could brighten a room during a blackout. She could not help but return the smile.  

"listen Daph..I would love to get to know you and um..all your friends better too but right now I should get back to work or I could get

in trouble with the boss, not to mention a couple of unjustifiebly jealous people who happen to be right out front.." 

"Joe! I never said I wanted to date you, just get to know you and your friends. BY the way, you never did mentioned your last name."

she pointed out as he put his name tag on the new shirt.  

" My last name is Hardy" He answered.  

Daphne thought about this for a second but then her almond shaped eyes grew wide in recognition. Another smile crept back on her

pretty face. "Not the Joe Hardy as in the famous Hardy detectives?" She asked growing even more excited.  

"Guilty, and you are the famous Daphne Blake who hosts "coast to coast with Daphne Blake? " He inquired she shook her head.  

" yup, it pays the bills, but my greatest love is solving mysteries and then writing about them." She admitted.  

" SO mind telling me what brings you and your friends to a small town like Bayport miss Blake?" Joe asked as he moved to the sink to keep himself busy at least while he worked. He didn't really want Mr. Prito or anyone else to get the wrong idea or think that he was goofing off on company time. He was raised better than that.  

"hmm..I think I can do better than that Mr. Hardy. Oh, but please Joe call me Daphne alright?" she continued as he nodded and began to load the dishwasher.  

Joe Hardy's curiosity had now peaked. . 

DISCLAIMER:

Hi again guys! I hope you enjoyed my first attempts at F.F. I know it was a work in progress but I do hope you all at least realized how important these characters are to me. I think this one should be not only better but more light hearted and hopefully a lot of fun. You guys are very important to me for no one else I know has as much devotion and affection for these guys as I do. I do have a life in the real world lol. But It is so much fun just sneaking off to enjoy life in the Hardy Boy universe as well as other outside characters I treasure. Your own writing is a constant inspiration and pleasure for me too. So to you all I say thanks and to Moonstar I send my appreciation because if you read my last story "Delusions" and thought that the spelling and grammar got better as it went along..well..It was Staci who guided me. So thanks! Enjoy!! oh yeah, please feel free to E-mail me with any ideas or suggestions such as ..get some sleep or find a good dictionary..lol oh and my favorite have you seen your glasses lately..well, no I haven't actually I stopped looking last year. boy am I wacky or what. Anyway I am babbling again. bye for now. Christine oh yeah, I have absolutly no legal connection to most of these Characters just a somewhat s=creepy obsession lol

Earlier that afternoon, a black sedan had been trailing what in their opinion was quote "the funkiest van they had ever seen." And indeed they were probably right for this vehicle was not only painted a swirling combo of Bright Blue/green and yellow but it had psychadelic flowers and the words "Mystery Machine" emblazoned on each side. It was a large van as well. The two men in the black sedan could almost feel the pounding from the loud music coming from the van but could not make out the words. They were well aware of the "Mystery Machine" and it's famous occupants, this made their assignment even trickier because there might not be a good time to get their intended target alone, especially with that darn van just screaming for attention.

"Ya know we better not screw this one up" A heavy dark blond hair,brown eyed man spoke.

"Hey Ernie, why do you always assume that? I swear you say that everytime and we haven't messed up yet geesh!" The woman driving replied frustrated.

"Well for one thing Marcia, this job is different than the rest. This is the big time babe"

"Ya I know, I know, the boss wants this particular kid, question is why?" The blonde woman with brown eyes asked.

"I don't know but I bet money has something to do with it. We are not getting paid the big bucks to stick our noses in the Bosses business Marcia. You do recall what our instructions were along with the threats which went with it right?" He chided her.

"yeah, yeah, Don't ask any stupid questions, just pick up the prize and get it back to the drop off." Marcia replied. Ernie nodded in agreement. They kept

silent after that continuing to trail the brightly colored van until it turned off the exit which lead to the Bayport Mall where it finally came to a stop outside of

a restaurant which they surmized served Italian food from the bright red,green and white banners and signs which were the traditional colors of Italy.

They pulled the sedan into the nearest spot and casually went in to stake out the joint as well as pick up some dinner. They had been on the move for a few hours it seemed and realized they might not get another chance to fuel up. The place was crowded yet the pair somehow managed to find a couple of good seats close to the door just incase they had to make a quick exit. Ernie went up to order their food to go while Marcia kept her eyes locked on their prey. Ernie came back to the table a few minutes later with two bottles of soda which he placed on the table. He was about to inform his partner that the food should be ready in a few minutes when they heard a loud crash. Their heads simultaneously turned toward the scene. That was when the beautifull

red head they had been trailing had bumped right into some gorgeous blond guy with sparkiling blue eyes. They both sat sprawled on the floor with soda

all over them, a bit humiliated but unhurt. Marcia had to snicker at the scene along with most of the other patrons in the room who witnessed it then some

thing about this blond boy had bothered her, he seemed somehow familiar. She had to get a closer look at this guy. It was then that she heard someone

calling out to him .

"Joe are you alright?" A tall young blonde girl with blue grey eyes asked, she sounded as though she were both concerned and perhaps a bit jealous of the way he was looking at the red head. Thats when it hit Marcia McCabe like a ton of bricks..gold bricks that is. She quickly whipped out her cell phone and dialed a number.

"Hey, is the boss available? " She asked the person on the other line. Apparently they must have told her that the boss was not receiving any calls because she huffed and continued to insist that she speak to the boss. "Tell him it is very important, and that It just might be his lucky day. On the other end Marcia

could hear the sound of someone yelling at her causing her to hold the phone away from her ears for a second, then there was a brief silence. While Ernie went up to retreive their take out order, she waited, her eyes fixed on the two people who were now the obvious center of attention a tall skinny guy and a huge Great Dane who was trying to eat everything in site. The mess had been cleaned by now and first the red head and then the blond waiter seemed to

have disapeared into the back room probably to freshen up. This might be their shot Marcia thought, she got up from her seat suddenly, still holding the phone to her ear while motioning Ernie to grab the food and follow her outside.

Daphne Blake had the knack for coming up with great ideas, and this was one of her best she thought as she turned to Joseph Hardy with her most dazzling smile. He immediatly felt both in awe of her beauty and unfortunatly he also felt a pang of guilt and yes fear even, due to the fact that van would probably be furious if she saw them spending so much time alone, the fear was partly from the memory of the really well built muscle bound Fred Jones whom Joe deduced to be somewhat over protective if not possessive of this stunning beauty. Frankly Joe Hardy did not blame him Daphne Blake was just about everything you could want in a girl, beautifull,rich, smart and way too cool in the fashion department. Oh and it didn't really hurt that she was the host of her own top rated television show "Coast To Coast with Daphne Blake". But the best thing about her in Joe Hardy's eyes was that she was a detective like

he was.

"Ah, Joe, you know that I am the host of my own show right?" she asked sweetly, Joe nodded. "well, I just had a terrific idea, what if I did an interview with you and your brother Frank. Just think of the ratings..why I bet just the female audience alone would tripple." she added with a giggle. Joe's face blushed.

I don't know Daph..I will definitly have to confer with my brother Frank on that one. Besides, I'm not really sure that would be a healthy idea. " Joe replied. She flashed him a confused look.

"You know how inportant it is for a detective to keep his cover, especially on very dangerous cases. So if we are plastered all over the airwaves, then we might get recognized and possibly jeopardize not just our lives but others as well, "He explained while he finished the last pan in the sink. Daphne put a well manicured finger to her lips in contemplation before finally replying .

" You are right Joe, I understand completely. But it would have been one of my best shows" She replied shrugging her shoulders siging.

"Hey there girl, I never said no, I said I would talk to Frank" Joe consoled her with a laugh. Her head popped up as her face broke out in a smile.

"Excuse me paging Mr. Joseph Hardy!" A voice interrupted them. Joe and Daphne instinctivly jumped apart as Tall handsome Tony Prito came into the back room carrying a long plastic container which had once been filled with balls of dough.

"Hi Tony, sorry, I haven't been out front in a while. I did the dishes though" Joe apologized sheepishly as his friend and employer stared back at him. Then Tony broke out in a laugh.

"It's fine Joe, we have it handled, I really can't say I blame you for hiding back here." Tony joked. Daphne was not sure how to react to this handsome, olive skinned boy with big brown eyes, but after watching him playfully pat Joe on the back She decided that he wasn't trying to humiliate them any more than they already felt. "Actually, your friends are wondering where you two took off to. I think vanessa and Freddie are starting to compare notes." The italian boy teased as he placed the empty pizza container in the sink before heading to the large walk-in refridgerator to retrieve another one.

" Tony could you please tell my friends that I will be out soon, oh, and may I ask you a favor? " Daphne asked in her sweetest damsel in distress voice.

Tony took her in and sighed, She was quite a beauty even with soda all over her dress. Tony nodded, finding himself unable to deny her anything.

" Can I use the back door to sneak out to the "Mystery Machine" and get a clean outfit? I am just a bit too embarassed still to face the crowd out there" she asked. Tony sympathized with her. He nodded.

"Why don't I escort you, it could be very dark back there even this early in the evening. " Tony offered, However, before she could agree, someone called

from the front for Tony to get out there with the new batch of dough and to grab some cheese and sauce as well. Tony shrugged. "Duty calls, but hey Joe, why don't you take her. You can take out the trash while you are at it. That way you will actually earn some of your pay for once. " Tony teased. Joe stuck his tongue out at his friend and smiled.

"I am perfectly capable of doing this by myself, after all I have faced many scary situations this one should be a piece of cake. " She tried to assure them but was quickly vetoed that idea. So she reluctantly agreed. Tony then returned to the front end while Joe held out his arm to her which she gratefully accepted. Joe opened the back door then, always being the true gentleman that he was, he gestured for her to step through first. Joe than went to get the two brown bags of trash nearest to the door.

" I'll just be right over here waiting for you, that way you can change in the ladies room when you get back. "

"Thanks Joe I really do appreciate this"

"Hey, It is cool. Especially after what happened. now go before your friends, not to mention mine, decides to send a search party for us." He warned with a laugh as Daphne had already turned to go. Suddenly she stopped, ran back to a startled Joe and kissed him on his now blushing cheek before she once

again rushed off to the "Mystery Machine". She was just about to the end of the alley when the black sedan pulled up right in front of her. Dahne had no time to react or run, instead she found herself staring into barrel of Ernies Macavoy's gun. Joe had to think quickly, he hefted the trash bag in his hand, over his head and spun it around then flung it at Ernie causing him to drop his gun. "Hey, get away from her!" Joe warned as he raced toward the man. Daphne had already recovered though, and was just about to deliver a karate kick to the man's side when Marcia came behind her with cloth, She wrapped her arms around Daphne's throat then held the fowl smelling cloth over Dahne's mouth. soon the girls struggles were slowing until finally her eyes glazed over and she slumped into limply into Marcia's arms. Quickly Marcia shoved her prisoner into the back seat of the car and hoped into the drivers seat.

"Hey, Ernie come on, finish it, we have to get out of here before any of their nosey friends show up. " Marcia called out. Ernie ignored his sisters voice. He

was too busy struggling with Joe Hardy. Joe seemed to have the upper hand as his fist swung up and managed to connect with Ernies stomach causing

the big man to groan in pain. That was where Joe had made his first mistake. Joe knew his fist connected with the man and turned to go help Daphne. He

had moved toward the door of the car when something hard came crashing down on his head. Stars danced everywhere as his head began to swim. Then

as if that wasn't enough, Joe could feel the quick jab of a needle as it penatrated his flesh. It was all over in an instant leaving both Joe and Daphne deep within the confines of unconsciousness and the Black sedan was pulling out toward the high way.

DISCLAIMER:

hi again guys, I just wanted to once again thank you all for reading my work. Feel free to bite my head off and spit me out with your advice. lol I really am kidding. :) anyway, I regretfully do not have any legal rights to most of these Characters. Although I just might have to write myself in to one of my stories so I can make it legal with Joe. lol. ok..don't panic help is on the way! So with that nutty

nonsense behind us, I hope you are still reading and enjoying my little story after all it can only get better right? well, can't it?...oh..bye. ChristineC. the gal palC.

CHAPTER (3) THREE:

"Boy that sure was nice of Mr. Prito to give us this free pizza ay Scoob?" Shaggy commented as he walked beside his best friend. The tall slim boy held the lid of the pizza box open to get a good wiff of the "Deep dish everything but the kitchen sink special". Mr. Prito had been trying out new pizza ideas and fortunately, for them all, he had found the perfect guinea pigs for the experiment. Shaggy breathed deeply sighing as his nostrils appreciated the experience. Scooby stood beside him drooling with anticipation, looking kinda deprived. However, Shaggy also knew how clever his pal was when it came to thier favorite subject food. 'If I'm not carefull he'll gulp this whole thing down in seconds ' Shaggy thought to himself quickly closing the lid.

"Raww, ran't ry rav ra rook?" Scooby asked, Shaggy shook his strawberry blond head.

"Uh uh Scoob! Last time I did that you devoured the whole thing before I could even blink, sorry but you will just have to wait til we get to the mystery machine." Shaggy replied holding their "prize" firmly while he reached into his jeans pocket for the keys to the van. Meanwhile Scooby was doing his best,as usual to find a way to get the food from Shaggy's possession. Then suddenly he stopped walking and stuck his head up in the air. Shaggy was just opening the rear doors when he noticed the change in his dogs behavior. He knew that there had to be something awfully important to tear Scooby's concentration from food. He also knew that dogs had a special ability to sense and hear things that humans can't, this extra sense had helped Scooby earn the reputation of "Great Detective" as well as Great Dane. But what really bothered Norville "Shaggy" Rogers was that his pal was also well known as a scaredy cat who usually ran in the opposite direction from any sign of danger,Shaggy of course was usually always right on his heels or paws rather. But now there was something different about the way Scooby was acting. It was then that a terrible thought hit him, the only times Scooby reacted this bravely was when one of his friends were in danger. Shaggy followed Scooby over toward an alley usually serviced by delivery trucks for the few stores in that area including Mr. Pizza. Shaggy froze, He knew that there was trouble and like always it scared the heck out of him, but the thought that one of his best buds might be in danger was just too important to let his stupid fears overcome him again.

Shaggy had almost caught up to his dog when he heard a male voice call out, "Hey get away from her!!"

Shaggy could have sworn he he heard a familiar voice call out as well, but before he could react another voice rang out.

"Hey Ernie come on finish it,we have to hurry up and finish it before any of their nosey friends show up!" The unfamiliar female voice rang out.

Shaggy and Scooby barely had time to jump out of the way as a large black sedan barreled past them, It's tires screeching loudly as the

car flew past. Shaggy who was still slightly behind Scooby had managed to get to the sidewalk but Scooby wasn't so lucky, Before he could react the car came by and clipped the poor animal without even stopping. Shaggy landed on the ground panting, still unaware of his companions fate. when he was finally able to catch his breath, he called out Scooby's name but heard only a soft wimper. His head

spun around toward the sound, but what Norville shaggy Rogers saw, was perhaps the most traumatic experience in his young life. His

dog,his pal,his best friend in the whole world was lying almost motionless on the ground, his big brown "puppy dog" eyes were half shut

Shaggy's own brown eyes were wide with shock yet filled with salty tears as he crawled over to where his beloved dog lay. Shaggy had

been quietly calling out Scooby's name hoping no pleading for any kind of response which finally came in a low pain filled wimper.

"Ra..ggy relp re!" Was all shaggy could make out. Shaggy was barely aware of his own voice as it screamed for help. He would have run to get help but fear and devotion to the large Brown and black creature before him was keeping him rooted to the spot. Finally Shaggy had begun to hear voices all around him followed by the distant sound of sirens which seemed to be getting louder as they got closer, But Shaggy's attention was only on the animal lying before him, His heart was breaking like never before.

"It's going to be ok pal, buddy o' mine" he whispered in Scooby's ear trying to assure the dog that he would not leave him. Scooby managed to turn his head to face Shaggy's tear streaked one.

"Ra..ggy? "

"shh..don't talk buddy, help will be here soon." Shaggy looked around to see if he could locate any of his friends.

"Ra..ggy.." Scooby began again, bringing his friend's attention back to him.

"yeah Scoob?" Shaggy sniffled. Wondering where the heck the help he promised was.

"RI rove ru ri rest riend." Shaggy said in a barely audible voice, Shaggy's voice caught in his throat as a lump started to form.

"I love you too best friend, But please try to hold on ok, promise me?"

"Ro ray ...rut ra rout raphne?" Scooby asked weakly. Shaggy glanced around again anxiously, never more helpless than he had before,

his best friend in the whole universe was hurt badly while another good friend had been kidnapped by some creeps in a black sedan, this

made the usually quite passive young man more angry than he ever felt in his life.

"Don't worry about Daphne ok Scooby we'll find her we always do, You just concentrate on holding on ok?" Shaggy ordered him gently.

"rokay raggy ri rill ror rou" Scooby answered breathing deeply, this really worried Shaggy but for Scooby's sake he tried his best to hide this fear.

Shaggy heard the sirens getting even louder and knew they were just about there, He had to find the guys and report what had happend

He just hoped that Daphne and the guy who had tried to help her were alright, He would have to report that as well of course. There was a commotion as the medical services had pushed through the ever increasing crowd. One woman identified herself to Shaggy as Norma Haskings the local animal control officer. She tried to assure a terrified Shaggy that Scooby was in good hands and that he was

being sent to the local animal hospital to be checked out. Shaggy wanted to go with him of course, There was no way he was leaving his

side. Finally he heard Fred Jones voice as the tall muscular blond boy pushed his way through the crowd, He was followed by Velma Dinkley of course, along with a very worried Frank Hardy.

"Oh my god shaggy what the heck happend here!?" Velma asked as they watched the EMT's gently lift the injured Scooby into the wagon. Shaggy explained as much he could then turned toward the wagon himself when Frank Hardy stopped him.

"Wait, please shaggy I am so sorry about your dog, but have you seen my brother Joe?" Frank asked anxiously.

"Yeah, and where is Daphne for that matter?!" Freddie asked.

Shaggy looked at him sympathetically but also realized that he really needed to get to Scooby. But Daphne and Joe's lives were at stake too. He turned his head back to them "Sorry guys, but they were kidnapped by the same jerks who ran Scooby and me down!"

Shaggy replied anger seething in his usually mellow voice, This shook both Freddie and Velma to the core, They knew that they had been in situations where Daphne had been kidnapped for some reason or other too many times before, however this was definitly different for them. They had never faced almost loosing a member of their team before. And now they had to worry about Scooby,Daphne and Joe Hardy's fates. But what worried Freddie and Velma the most was the look of pure hate on Shaggy's scruffy looking face, one that promised revenge on whoever tried to destroy their family!

A bout a half an hour earlier:

When Tony Prito returned to the pizza station he was assigned to that shift, He replenished the cheese,sauce and Dough containers, But his thoughts were elsewhere at the moment. Tony had snuck a peak at the table usually occupied by his best friends. One of them a tall willowy blonde girl with blue/grey eyes had been sitting in a corner seat slightly away from the rest of the gang which now included the Big blond guy and his much shorter companion whose dark auburn hair was cut in a an almost boyish bob, she had a sprinkle of freckles and wore thick black glasses but Tony could see that there was actually something kinda cute about her, it was almost as if she was trying to hide her attractiveness, But It looked like Phil Cohen had seen it too. For his usually shy friend was now deep in a no doubt complex conversation of all things technical. She wore an orange turtle-neck sweater over a brown skirt which once again made Tony

believe that she was hiding her beauty. Tony thought about how different the girl named Velma was to her somewhat more vivacious

friend Daphne who seemed to ooze sex appeal. This made him think of Vanessa once more, He wondered what she must be thinking. It

was no secret after all that her boyfriend Joseph Hardy was quite a flirt and although Joe had tried to prove to her that she is the only girl for him, the one who held his heart, Vanessa still seemed to have her nagging doubts. Tony's thougts were interrupted by the call for more slice pies and the oven buzzer announcing that the very first "Everything but the kitchen sink " pizza was ready to come out.

Tony could hear the sound of someone or something licking their chops or at least he thought that was what it sounded like anyway,

But then he heard something which proved the last thought.

"Rooby Rooby Roo! relicious!" Scooby Doo said, everyone stopped and stared at the world famous pooch who could actually sound like he was talking,except that every word started with the letter R it seemed. At first the dog was so into the pizza he was scarfing up that he didn't notice the whole restaurant staring at him then he shrugged "Rut rant a ruy reat ris rizza rin reace? " He asked,people quickly

turned back to their own lives.

"Scoob, when are you going to face the fact that you are just not like any other dog?" Shaggy said with a good natured laugh, soon shared by the rest of the group except for Vanessa Whose eyes were fixed on the entrance to the back room. Both Fred Jones and

Frank Hardy had noticed this and began to also wonder what was taking Daphne so long to clean up and just what if at all, did Joe have to do with the pretty girl taking so long. Finally, Frank could not take it anymore, He really did not know this Daphne Blake but

he did trust his brothers vow of love to his girlfriend Vanessa. Frank sadly recalled the way his "baby" brother had blamed himself for the way he had teased his first true love Chet Morton's younger sister Iola, just before she died in a car bomb meant as a warning to the teen detectives and their ace investigator father Fenton Hardy to stay away from a very important case. Joe vowed to never put both Vanessa and himself through that kind of guilt and pain again and Frank believed him. He also shared a weird almost physchic bond with his brother which now screamed to him that Joe was in danger once again. Frank got up and walked to the front counter just as Shaggy and Scooby were picking up their special pizza and heading for the door after chatting with their friends for a moment. It was

still kind of busy but after a moment Tony came up to him sensing that his best friend was worried about something. Tony as well as all the Hardy's friends and family were well aware of the bond between the two brothers and could always tell when one or the other were

reflecting the others thoughts, fears,and especially pain.

Hey Frank, I know that look buddy, you are wondering where is Joe and that girl Daphne right? Frank nodded glancing back at Vanessa who was looking at the gold watch Joe had given her for her birthday, Frank could see the anger flashing in her eyes.

"actually, yeah I was, can I speak to Joe please for a second?" Frank asked. Tony sighed. He was begining to worry that a jealous fight might break out. So he felt he had to try to avert it with the truth.

" He is out back doing the trash and helping miss Blake" Tony explained, at the mention of Daphne's name Fred Jones came over to the counter to join them while Velma and phil still seemed deeply absorbed in their conversation and each others eyes.

"Please forgive me for being nosey guys, But why does Joe need to help my girl...um I mean Daphne? Is she hurt?"

"No She is just wanted to get some cleaned clothes and change them before she came back out" Tony explained. Fred thought about this for a moment then his eyes went wide with understanding.

" I should have realized, our Daphne is probably taking forever doing herself over" Fred said with a chortle. The guys all laughed but

appreciated the obviously sucessfullness in keeping herself looking so beautifull. They were interrupted by a police officer who had

come up to where the boys were chatting. The others at their table had just noticed the officers arrival.

" Oh hey Con how are you today? " Frank Hardy asked in greeting, He introduced Freddie and Velma to the man. Then Con turned his attention toward Frank. Mr. Prito instinctively moved closer hoping this was not bad news.

"Hi Frank, Listen can I have a talk with you, it is very important."The police sgt. informed him. Frank Hardy nodded.

"Why don't you use my office Sgt. Reilly." Antonio offered, the officer stole a glance around at the crowd then nodded his approval and gratefullness.

"What's this all about Con? Do I need a Lawyer?" Frank had to ask. Con shook his head no and guided him to the office. Frank took a look around the back room before entering the office, then his eyes fell on something which seemed way out of place. The back security door had been left Open. Frank could hear a siren getting louder and could almost swear that it was just outside the back door.

Frank's eyes grew wide with realization and fear as all the color drained from his cheeks. "JOE!" He screamed. Frank then knew he was

right something indeed had happend to his brother Joe. Before Con could stop him he raced back out to the front and told the others who had just heard from another friend that a dog was hit by a car. They all jumped from their seats and headed outside as fast as they could. Vanessa Benders pretty face took on a look of both horror and guilt as the realization that perhaps Joe was not aviding her or flirting with someone else but perhaps once again he was fighting for his very life and she was again unable to help him.

Disclaimer: I own nothing but the rather large shirt on my back. lol. ya know I think lol is my favorite word now and probably the most annoying too. lol. :) I do however own my devotion to these characters. I did want to point a few things out after rereading my own story so far and finding a few things which just didn't seem to add up..so what do I do to get my big baby got back butt out of the frying pan? well, I guess I have to improvise and find a way out of it hopefully before my butt burns. lol. ok here goes.

1. Daphne did get Joe's name but he didn't actually mention it, but I guess that would be grasping huh, ok let's try this, in all the excitement she only forgot that he mentioned it , or even more realisticlly, Daphne really wnated to make conversation with our boy (who wouldn't) and that just popped out..later she can admit to it being a dumbass question.. can I say that? If not then Moonie can delete that sorry lol. see! anyway...

2. I narrated that there was two MEN in the black sedan when introduced. Oh alright I flubbed that one but hey, we can fix that by saying that Marcia who was

actually pretty masculine looking at least from the dark windows of a black sedan. silly people! :) oh yeah I also need glasses anyone have a cheap pair to sell?

3. Marcia Macabe is the womans name while I said Earnie's last name was Macavoy right? yet they are supposed to be brother and sister? I should have clarified that they were actually step-siblings.

4. um..I think that was everything right? please feel free to send me E-mail or a post on Moonies board if you have any problems or ideas and I appreciate the patiance and the imput. Thanks,- Christine.

CHAPTER 4:

Fred Jones paced across the thickly carpeted floor in the animal hospital's waiting room, It had seemed like hours since they took poor Scooby into be examined. Fred was also worried for Daphne and Joe Hardy of course, He didn't get to know the guy or his friends too much yet, But the gang was alway's making new friends where ever they went and these guys seemed to be pretty cool.

even though Freddie did seem just a tad concerned about the time Daphne and Joe had spent together in the back room. But He was

more concerned of course about the time they shared now as prisoners of who the heck knows. Fred stopped pacing long enough to look over at his other friend and associate Velma Dinkly who met his gaze with an equally concerned one. Beside Velma, Phil Cohen

had been trying to provide as much support as possible. Phil it seems had discovered that even though they had just barely met, there

was definitly something special about the petite auburn haired teenage girl beside him. Phil had volunteered to drive the teens to the

clinic, while shaggy insisted on going with Scooby Doo in the ambulance. Phil was so lost in thought and worry for his good friend Joe Hardy that he did not even seem to notice that his hand was still interlocked with Velma's. She turned from Freddie and looked down as if Velma herself had jjust become aware of their hands. Blushing she slowly went to move her hand when Phil in a suprising move had

gently taken it back. She finally looked up at him, noticing with some relief that he was blushing too as he continued to hold her hand.

This made Velma smile.

"Thanks" She said quietly. Nodding in appreciation toward their still connected hands.

"My pleasure..I hope I am not being forward" Phil asked still blushing.

"No infact I am pretty sure that it is providing me with great comfort" She replied smiling shyly.

"Cool..Velma?" Phil began softly His own smiling face had again returned to a mask of concern. Joe was one of his closest friends and

it was quite obvious that Velma felt the same affection for her friend Daphne Blake. Phil's thoughts turned Frank Hardy his very best friend, He had been through this crap so often, But there must be a breaking point and Phil Cohen fearfully realized that his friend just might be reaching it soon.

Velma watched his face turn from a shy smile to sadness and concern, She had the feeling that her own freckled features held the same look. Velma gave his hand a gentle reassuring sqeeze nothing less than he had offered her when it seemed as though her life was begining to unwravel,for that Velma was extremely gratefull, But she had also experienced something

else when she met Phil Cohen who she discovered was so much like her, Velma had realized just how lonely she really was and how Daphne and Fred must be feeling toward each other. Velma was not jealous of her best friends on again off again romantic relationship

She herself had dated a few times, even double dating with Shaggy once in a while. Velma tried to stifle a giggle as she thought about

all the rumors that were running rampart requarding the Scooby Gang and their many adventures. Some of the rumors and inuendo was so ludicrous,especially all the crap about the gang doing drugs and having wild parites in the mystery machine. Velma had to laugh

at the fact that most people assumed that Shaggy and herself were a couple. Sure she loved Shaggy as well as Daph and Freddie and

she loved Scooby as well. Velma thought about her canine friend Scooby Doo and all his irreplaceable quirky nature, He was far from a

mere 'Mascot" Scoob was just like one of them, so smart and special in fact that they all often seemed to forget that he was in fact a

dog and not a human being like themselves. But Scooby, even with his fear of practically everything except food of any kind, was a

crucial part of their team and could never ever be replaced. Velma's thoughts and heart went out to Shaggy Rogers, Who she knew would not for a moment leave his best bud's side, not even to eat, Which had also been Shaggy's favorite pass time.

"Velma..Hello are you with me here?" A familar voice asked, jarring her thought's back to the present. She looked up and met Fred's

gaze. He looked exausted but for some reason a look of pure relief had washed over his handsome features. Velma stared at him for

a second longer in confusion until the door to the examining room opened revealing a wary Norville Shaggy Rogers. Fred and Velma both turned toward their friend in anticipation. Shaggy just stood there with a blank look on his face which broke into one of the widest grins he could muster as he opened the door wider to let someone go through. Velma, Phil, and Freddie's eyes all widened as well as their smiles as none other than Scooby Doo came through the door, His back leg covered in a rapidly drying cast which was making a

weird thumping noise as he walked. Everyone ran up to Scooby and took turns gently hugging him and each other. The group waited while Shaggy was given a prescriotion for Scooby and some last minute instructions than headed to the Hardy home where Frank had

asked them all to meet him so they could get going on the case and find out who would dare do this to all of them and make them pay. But most of all Frank's words had been echoed by the thoughts of everyone involved, They had to get Joe and Daphne back as soon as possible!!

While her friends were frantically searching for them and helping Scooby, Daphne Blake had begun to revive. She had no idea how long she had been out of course, for the creeps who had kidnapped her must have stolen the Rolex watch her dad had given her on her 18th birthday this made her blood boil. Daphne Blake had had her share of being on the victim end of a kidnapping and she hated that wih a passion. It was then that she became aware of Joe Hardy's presence beside her. Daphne was growing more worried about Joe who had not revived yet, Then she fuzzily recalled that Joe was injected with something, while she was just given chloroform, at least that was what she thought she remembered. She looked around the cold dimly lit room which was lighted only by a dim bulb hanging on the ceiling. She sat up on the small bed,scratching her legs from the wool blanket which had been placed over her. She gingerly got off her bed to make her way to sit on the other bed which held the still unconscious Joe. Daphne frowned worriedly taking in her new friends deathly pale complexion. She instinctivly reached over to feel his forehead when Joe's hand shot up and grabbed on to her own. His

eyes sprang open. Daphne jumped back with a startled gasp.

"Jinkies!" She exclaimed. But the relief in her lovely almond shaped eyes was apparent. she composed herself by taking a deep breath

and turned her attention to Joe, who looked like a zombie as he continued to lie on the bed, his eyes wide open as if he were still staring

up at Daphne but at the same time it was like his mind was somewhere else all together. Joe's pasty complexion which looked ghostly

in the dim light had begun to terrify Dahne who suddenly felt more alone and cold than she had in a long time, even though she had a

long track record of being in these situations. Daphne carefully inched her way closer to Joe's side as she did she noticed with a sigh of relief that Joe's chest was thankfully moving up and down at a steady pace which could only mean that his breathing was normal. He was begining to revive she hoped.

"Joe?" she asked softly rubbing his arms and legs before making sure he is completely covered with his own blanket. She reached over to her own bed and retrieved the other dull green wool blanket which she wrinkled her nose at. Daphne was on the road alot with the gang but she had still insisted on sleeping in satin sheets and thick plush down comforters, She even kept a set in the Mystery Machine

for when she felt the nned for them. She sighed loudly "Well, this will have to do I am certainly not going to freeze to death trying to make a fashion statement she said out loud admittingly being suprised by her own change in attitude. Daphne came over to Joe's bed and gently climbed in next to him making sure the blankets covered them both. She was too cold to ignore the need for warmth and the

pang of guilt she felt about the fact that Joe might not have been involved with this mess if he didn't try to help her. But now it was her

turn to protect him, at least while he was still out of it. Daphne was soon lulled into a restless sleep, tossing and turning until she had

ended up snuggled against Joe's muscular chest. she was also unaware of the sickly sweet smell of gas being pumped into the dark room or for that matter, aware of the fact that a camera had been capturing the whole scene on film.

Chapter 5

CHAPTER FIVE:

Laura Hardy sat at her kitchen table, her head in her hands, nursing yet another migrane. She had it seemed been plaqued with them for quite some time now, But thought she had finally learned to cope with the pain each one brought her. But this time, as with all the other far too numberous times one of her loved ones was in terrible danger, the pain just seemed to get worse and worse. Laura hated taking medicine but after weighing the pros and cons of it's bennefits namely sweet relief from the throbbing in her skull, she decided to

go for the meds. After popping a few aspirins with water She sat at the table to wait for hopeful relief. Pretty petite Laura Hardy though

had a different kind of pain,this one radiating from her broken heart. She knew that no amount of medicine could cure this hurt infact the

only cure for her broken heart would be for her to wake up to see the beautifull saphire eyes of her youngest son shining down on her. She loved and supported both her children and their father Fenton's career choice However, She also inwardly hated it as well. It

was bad enough that her husband perhaps the worlds most successful private investigator took off to all parts of the planet often at a

moments notice and then not returning home for days or weeks, But her beloved son's insisted on following in his footsteps. They all gave

Laura many reasons to be very proud and she was, But the problem was that she was so sick of being in situations where she might have to prematurely bury one of them. Laura Hardy had made a vow that she would not bury either of her babies before her time. Something

most parents vow but far too many times it doesn't work that way. Laura sadly recalled dear Iola Morton and her heart broke once again.

The poor girl was the unintended victim of a car bomb meant for her sons. Iola's mother had sadly admitted that she too had hoped that her children outlive her and their father but that was not to be. Laura heaved a guilty sigh of relief, followed by remorse because of it. It

brought her back to the thought that she may concievably loose her youngest son. Laura absolutely detested when she got like this. It

was not as if she had no warning that her husband would enter this profession Fenton had from the moment they met made his intentions

perfectly clear, and While it was not really her first choice that her boys follow their father in the "family business" She still had to marvel along with their father, just how apt they both were at not just detective work but practically everything they set their mind to. Laura had no qualms about feeling proud of herself for her parenting as well as Fentons, But still she could not help but worry that they were perhaps

not doing enough to protect them. She lowered her head to the table burying them in her hands and cried. She wanted the pain to stop,

wanted her to stop feeling sorry for herself, But most of all at that moment Laura Hardy just wanted her "Little Joe " back in her arms.

Fenton Hardy was about to enter the kitchen to refill the old tea pot in his office, But stopped abruptly as he caught sight of his dear

wife sitting at the kitchen table her head buried in her pretty hands. His heart went out to the woman he loved more than life itself. He

knew she must be having yet another painful migrane. Fenton could have sworn he heard a muffled sob. He wanted so badly to race over to his wife envelope her in his strong arms and rock her until she was feeling better but he also knew that until Joseph was back home safely with his family and friends where he belonged, that neither Laura nor anyone else who loved Joe would be able to find any

comfort or an end to the pain they all felt. It was physically and emotionally draining them all. Fenton hoped that young Daphne Blake was alright of course as well. He had never met the young woman but he was well aware of her father Timothy Blake and his sucessful

business. Mr. Blake was a classic rags to riches story with all the excitement worthy of a "movie of the week". Fenton recalled when his daughter who hosted one of televisions top rated and extremly popular Talk show had her father on the show as a special guest. It

was fascinating to hear how the man had began amassing a fortune at a very young age by investing in a few stocks which had brought

a huge return. Fenton could tell that the man was obviously very intellegent for he did not lean his entire future hopes on the often too

unstable market, The man had spent many hours researching what was not only popular at that time but what was consistantly at the

forefront of society and thus started his own business using the money he earned from his returns as well as a loan. He was very proud

of his sucess but it was nothing to him compared to the pride he clearly felt for his young beautifull little girl and from the way he doted on her, it was apparent that Daphne Marie Blake was definitly daddy's little girl. As if on cue the door bell chimed, Laura's head popped

up, she was vaguly aware of her husbands presence behind her, Getting up from the table she walked to the front door calling out to whom ever it was to please hold on. Fenton finished filling the pot with water and then followed his wife out into the family living room to greet their guests.

Laura Hardy breathed deeply smoothing her blue dress and quickly checking her appearance in the mirror which hung on the wall by the

front door. She opened the door to reveal a middle aged couple who she surmised Had to be Timothy and Catherine Blake, If only from

the concerned looks on their face and the fact that Mrs. Blake looked remarkably like her daughter. Laura had never met Daphne Blake in person but she was a reguar viewer of "Coast to coast with Daphne Blake". Catherine had the same red hair but she was much bigger than her daughter, plump actually, However there was still the same natural beauty shared between mother and daughter. Timothy Blake had dark auburn hair and brown eyes, while his wife had green ones like Daphne. He was a distinquished man who was

much younger looking than his age of 43. He wore a brown leather blazer over a black turtle kneck and stylish blue Jeans with a pair of expensive leather boots. Laura noticed how stylish they looked, but knew that they were not here for a regular social event. The sad,

concerned _expression on their faces mirrored the ones worn by both Laura and Fenton who had quickly raced to put the tea pot on the burner in his office. Laura gratiously motioned them in to her home followed by the shaking of hands all around. The hardys ushered the Blakes to have a seat in the living room and offered them some refreshments which they readily accepted. The ride had been a long one even though both families lived in Massachusetts, although the Hardy's lived just along the border between Massachusetts and the

state of New York while The Blakes had a winter home in the heart of Boston as well as a summer home on Cape Cod. They had been

returning from closing the summer house when they got the call from the Bayport Police department. Mr. Blake had instructed his limo driver turn on to the Massachusetts turn Pike and from there it was straight through to Bayport. After finally reaching Freddie on his cell phone and getting the Hardy's number and address from Frank who tried to assure the worried parents that they would find both their

daughter and his brother Joe as well. Once they had arrived at the Hardy home and all four adults had gotten settled, they began to discuss their options begining with the Blake's asking for Fenton Hardy to investigate and of course the ace detective was already on the case. His own child was out there somewhere with the Blake's daughter. Fenton Hardy had already assured the three people who

now looked up to him expectantly, that he was not about to sit by and let the police handle this. He was interrupted by a knock on the door. Laura excused herself before getting up to answer it. She opened the door to reveal Chief Ezra Collig and ushered their friend in

just as Frank was pulling up in his car followed by the Mystery Machine. The parents all turned to greet the crowd.

"You!" Mr. Blake screamed, suddenly rushing over to the muscular blond headed boy and wrapping his hands around the startled Fred's

kneck. "This is all your fault! You promised to take care of my little girl!" The distraut father bellowed!