CHAPTER SIX:

Bayport police Chief Ezra Collig sprang into action,quickly pulling the distraught Timothy Blake off Fred Jones. He was well aware from the size of young Fred that the boy could easily take the man on but Fred had been taken completely by suprise,not to mention he most likely felt that his "girl friend's" father was correct. Mrs. Blake screamed for her husband to stop but it was the soothing words from Daphne's best friend Velma Dinkley which finally managed to bring Timothy back to his senses. The short,auburn locked young woman walked up to her friends distraught father.  

"Mr. Blake please you know how Freddie feels about Daphne!" Said in a gentle voice, her hand went to touch his arm. Timothy turned to look at her, then back to face Fred who was rubbing his sore throat and coughing. Mr. Blake's own Brown eyes widened as the realization of his actions came to light. He looked down at his feet frowning, his wife immediatly came to his side to gently guide him to the Hardy's royal blue love seat then sat down beside him, her hand rested on his as he continued to stare silently at his feet. There was an awkward silence in the room until Laura quietly suggested that the group spread out to give them some time alone. But as they began to leave Mr. Blake's voice rang out.  

"No, please wait! I need to say something" He called out to them. Everyone froze and turned to face the man who squeezed his worried wife's hand before continuing. She nodded trying to reassure her husband of twenty years.  

"Go ahead dear," She encouraged earning her another loving Squeeze.  

Timothy Blake cleared his throat before continuing. "First I would like to apologize for my behavior,especially to you Freddie and to the Hardy's for my actions in their house hold." He apologized. 

"nonsense Mr. Blake" Laura Hardy replied coming over to sit on the full size couch. She reached out to place her hand on his slumped shoulder. Both Blake's smiled gratefully, they were suddenly full aware of this lovely woman's strength and kindness. Fred came over to join them and offered his hand which was taken by Mr.Blake who shook it vigerously.  

"Freddie I do hope you accept my apologies son, I am just upset about my little girl, oh and young Joseph as well of course." He added turning a sympathetic glance toward the Hardys.  

"Mr. Blake sir, I am so sorry I let you down, I had no idea that there was anything going on, we weren't even on a case sir honest, We heard about it after it happend. I don't blame you for being upset with me sir, But you have to know that there isn't anything I wouldn't do for Your daughter. " Freddie admitted. The Blakes could see that it was very difficult for the handsome teen to keep his emotions in check, They could also see that this young man before them clearly loved their daughter. Mrs. Blake smiled and reached over to take his hand in hers.  

"Thank you dear, we are quite aware of the many times you and your friends have been there for our little Daphne, It's just that we do

get so concerned about your...um..adventures and choice of careers." Catherine replied gently, Timothy shook his head in agreement. 

"Well, Fenton and I certainly know how you must be feeling, being the parents of not one but two detectives is not alway's easy. Not to mention the fact that my husband is one as well. But you must admit that it is quite exciting and it seems like your Daphne and her

um ..gang have given you so much to be proud of much like my own detectives have given me." She said with a proud smile. A hand reached down to lovingly grasp her own shoulder, Laura took it in hers and turned to meet her own husbands dark brown eyes, so much

like their oldest son's, Fenton met her blue eyed gaze both brimming with unspoken love and respect, they were also filled with worry

for the safety of thier loved ones and their wonderfull loyal friends. They looked at Frank who blushed at his parents obvious affection for him. This awkwardness was thankfully interrupted as Aunt gertrude,Callie,Vanessa,and Velma announced to the group that they

were ready to serve the food. Everyone marveled at the suprising speed the injurd Scooby Doo managed to muster up to get to the food. Shaggy quickly made his way before his pal, knowing full well that Scooby would more than likely have at least half the food consumed before anyone else even got neat the table. Everyone started to laugh, it was a glorius relief from the somber mood that

had been so stifling. Their lighter mood was interrupted soon however when the door bell rang. Frank ran to get the door. It was a

U.P.S delivery which Frank signed for. He accepted the medium sized cushioned envelope. Checking for an address. Fenton had well

trained his whole family to handle all packages very carefully, Especially since the horribly tragic events about a year ago which had

resulted in the premature death of Joe's first true love, seventeen year old Iola Morton, Chet Morton's younger sister.  

"Dad! " Frank called out to get his fathers attention. Fenton was just filling his plate when he heard Frank call out to him.  

"Be right there son" He replied, wondering who was at the door. His wife came over to her husband's side. She took his plate from him promising to fill it so he got some food before there was not a crumb left, she also asked him to assure Frank that she would do the same for him. Fenton kissed her and took off in search of his oldest son, his interest now greatly peaked.  

Dapne Blake was still exausted, despite the deep sleep she had managed to fall into. Her head felt groggy and her stomach felt as if it could empty it's contents any time now, she also felt an urgent need to use the bathroom not to mention to take a long shower. She wrinkled her nose at the combined stench of both her and Joe.."Joe!" She exclaimed to herself. She had finally felt him squirm behind

her. Dahne moved her body to sit up as much as possible in the single bed but when she did,she came face to face with a confused Joe Hardy, His gorgeous eye's widend in wary suprise when he realized that he was in a dark room,strange bed, but most of all he was in

said bed with Daphne Blake who was probably one of the most incredible women he had ever known. This though,made Joe jump up in startled suprise . 

"Oh, Sugar,honey,iced,Tea!" He exclaimed out loud causing Daphne to giggle a bit at the deepening blush which adorned his handsome

face. "Vanessa is going to kill me!" He added causing the girl to giggle once again. Joe shot her a funny look which she returned with a laugh. "What is so funny Miss Coast to coast with Daphne Blake?" He inquired trying not to get annoyed with the lovely red haired girl.

"Vanessa is not the only one who is going to kick my butt ya know, Um...you do remmeber Fred Jones....Why are you still laughing?!"

He cried out in exasperation, Then for the first time Joe realized where they were and more importantly, they were fully dressed. He

blushed deeper and began joining Daphne in a fit of laughter.  

"Oh, Joe, You are so cool. I just adore how loyal you are to Your girlfriend. It's funny but that is not exactly what I heard." she teased

causing him to shoot her a nasty glance.  

"Oh yeah, and just why and how do you know so much about me?" He asked, his curiousity now peaked.  

" I never said I didn't know anyone in Bayport. I do however recall telling you that I heard of the famous Hardy Boys and their father the world reknown private investigator Fenton Hardy." She replied. pulling her wool blanket closer to her body. Joe saw her shiver and

pulled his own blanket around her feeling the same damp coldness. After a long pause she finally continued on with her explanation

"well, of course my friend here told me all about you guys and even suggested that we came up for a visit to check out the big 350th

Halloween Bash being held right here in Bayport. I thought it might be a great idea for a show, Plus she promised to introduce us to you guys since she happens to be a friend of yours I believe. " Daphne explained.  

"Oh, and who would that be?" He inquired. 

"Elizabeth Webbling, We met a few years ago at a newspaper convention, you see we both aspire to be investigative reporters"

"Oh cool you know Liz? She is one heck of a reporter actually on both the school paper and the Bayport times which is owned by her father. " Joe answered recalling fondly his pretty friend whom he considered asking out way before Joe even laid eyes on Vanessa Bender. But Liz had proven invaluble as both a friend and a investigative reporter,helping them uncover many important clues and information.  

"Oh I see," aphne laughed softly as she saw the admiration Joe had for her friend Liz. They were interrupted by the sound of vents opening. as well as what sounded like the door, Joe and Daphne both instinctivly braced themselves for confrontation however there

was a ominous hiss followed by a warm swriling sensation neither teen could fight off. They were now vaguely aware of the men who

had entered the room, Joe instictively moved in front of Daphne trying to protect her, But he was just too weak. They were too late to stop the men in gas masks from coming closer, too late to stop the swirling sensation followed by darkness. Too late to stop them from picking them up and seperating them as they carried their limp forms from the room.  

Chapter 7

Fenton Hardy motioned over for Collig and Con to join him as he followed his son into the living room where Frank carefully handed the package over to the Chief. Glancing back toward the unsuspecting crowd in the other room Ezra decided that for safety precautions they should take the package out into the back yard. On the way he quietly ordered Con to get on the horn to the bomb squad and have them send someone over there to examine the package just in case. The Sargeant nodded and quickly went to do as his boss instructed. Laura Hardy kept sneaking worried glances toward her husband and son,she was so worried about her family especially her youngest whom she missed dearly. It was obvious that something important was happening but that it something that her husband was not willing to inform the rest of the group who had invaded her household, Each with one purpose,one thought only, to bring their loved ones back home as soon as possible and of course safe and sound. Laura Hardy's petite frame involuntarily shook at that frightening thought. Her husband looked up suddenly in her direction. It seems as though the whole Hardy family was "gifted" with the same incredibly strong intuition and the often harrowing bond which alerts the others to the others pain or pleasure. Fenton came over to his blonde wife engulfing her in his strong arms and silently held her until the shaking had finally subsided. Laura desperatly wanted to be strong for her family and friends but there were also times when she resented that obligation. She was a mother first and needed to be able to express her feelings and her fears, or she knew she would simply go insane. Frank Hardy stopped on his way out to the back yard. He had witnessed the scene between his parents with both the awkward feeling that he was intruding and also the desire to rush over to them and just loose himself in their loving embrace. He sighed and decided to allow them their private moment. Frank turned on his heels and continued on his way out the back door.

Bayport police Chief Ezra Collig really did not want Frank Hardy or even his father Fenton for that matter,any where near the area where the Bomb Squad were going to examine the suspicious package. He wasn't even sure that it was an explosive device, however after what

had happend at the Bayport Mall when the secret organization known as the assassins decided to blow up the boy's car in order to "send "a message to Fenton and political candidate Philip Walker to stop his campaign against them. Thankfully Neither Frank nor Joe were in thecar when it went off however, tragically the event had changed their young lives forever,especially Joe's for it was the boy's first love who had become the victim of the terrorist's plot. Young lovely Iola Morton had been on her way to the car for some more campaign leaflets. She had been upset with her boyfriend for making a fool of her infront of another girl, Joe tried to follow her to apologize but the bomb had gone off before he could get any where near the car or poor Iola. Joe had never recovered from the loss and the guilt that was eating himup inside, even though he allowed himself to open his heart to pretty willowy blonde headed Vanessa Bender. Ezra Sighed deeply at the memory of Frank Hardy having to take his younger brother down with a choke hold before Joe could drag them both into the flaming wreck that was previously their yellow sedan. Over a year had passed and so much had changed, especially the Chief's own feelings both professional and personal for not only the Hardy brothers but towards their whole family as well. They had lost so much yet had also gained a lot as well, the mutual respect and trust they all now enjoyed suddenly blossomed into a strong bond which included Con Riley. Both Officers had become like an uncle to the boys and their friends and to their parents

they and thier spouses had become like brothers and sisters to each other as well.

"Ahem..Chief?" Con's voice called out barging through to his bosses thoughts. This snapped the chief back to the present and to the

no-nonsense head of the Bayport police that every one knew all too well.

"Yeah Riley,what's up?" He asked impatiently. the Sargeant explained that the bomb squad was there already. Collig clicked back into full Chief mode and began bellowing orders. "Great, have them go through the side gate and try to keep the team away from the house,

the last thing we need is a bunch of people running around in panic, but have a few officers ready to evacuate at a moments notice ok?

"Yes sir," Con acknowledged with a nod of his head before rushing off to relay the Chief's orders. Con snuck a quick look of concern back at the man who has become his hero and Mentor, Collig caught the look and shook his head in silent reply. Con knew that his boss was

just as worried as he was about Joe and Daphne and everyone in the area as well.

Lt. Maria Sanchez was perhaps one of the most experienced Bomb experts on the Bayport police department as well as one of the few

people whom Chief Ezra Collig could completely trust with his life, in fact he had and the petite dark haired officer had come through not

only saving his butt, but that of half the Bayport police department and many civilians as well. She was also unfortunatly no stranger to

the Hardy Family, having been instrumental in a few of their many cases, However the one which stands out most of all besides the Iola Morton case of course had to have been the "Delusions" case where once again poor Joe had been the victim of an evil revenge plot. She had been called in to figure a way into the "rubber room" the teen was being held captive in by the Assassins. A team of Sanchez,

the Chief and Fenton Hardy had managed to find a way into the room and snatch the only person out a secret exit and down into a long tunnel in the basement just before the bomb had gone off. Sanchez took one look at the way the bomb was wired and quickly ordered everyone out knowing full well that there was way to stop it from going off. It wasn't until much later that they finally discovered that the teen they pulled out was in reality NOT young Joseph Hardy but an almost perfect Clone!! They in true Hardy Fashion and devoted

determination managed to track the real Joe down with the surprising help of a an unlikely ally, a well known Jewel thief named Charity

who as it turned out happened to also be the step-daughter of the deadly leader of the Assassins known as Al Rousasa AKA the Bullet.

A man whom Joe Hardy had thought he killed during a showdown following his girlfriends death. *

"Hi Chief, what do you have for me this time" She asked tiredly, She hated it when these things happened to such good people. The man before her just shook his head warily.

"Actually, Maria I am not really sure what exactly is in this package but given the situation and the Hardy familie's rather extensive as

well as unfortunate history with enemy's and explosives, I thought it was best that we check this thing out first. She nodded agreeing

totally with his words.

"Ok, your the boss, But please try to keep the area clear, who knows, it could be just a delivery but then again it could be a bomb, I will let you know what I find A.S.A.P. She replied, while turning toward the package with her special Stethescope and the portable X-Ray

machine which she used to see into the box without having to open the parcel which could possible blow up if It was indeed a bomb. It

took her and her team only a few moments to determine that this particular article was definitly not a bomb, Just a video tape with a

letter addressed to The Blake Family. Sanchez handed the now open box to the Chief and after giving a full report requarding their findings the Squad packed up their equipment and left. On the way out Maria Sanchez said a silent prayer for the safe return of both Joe Hardy and Daphne Marie Blake as well as peace of mind for those who love and miss them so.

Daphne Blake awoke to the sound of elevator music, Elton John she realized. When her senses finally had completely returned fully. She looked around

her surroundings and found herself trying to sit up on what had to be one of the luxurious Goose Down comforter set that she had ever

seen or felt, or perhaps it had something to do with the fact that it seemed like forever since she had been able to sleep in a real bed. It

finally hit Daphne that she was alone. Where was she, she wondered, however even more important to Daphne was the question of where Joe Hardy was?!

The man had been watching the lovely teenage girl as she continued to sleep off the most recent effects of the gas his men pumped into her previous holding cell. It seemed as if she would never waken, but finally she began to stirr. She was so very lovely he thought to

himself. He had been a fan for a long time and almost regretted the actions he had been forced to take to fulfill his own bosses orders.

"I want the blake girl taken and held until her father agreed to our "terms", His employer had ordered promising a big pay off with the missions completion of an even greater punishment if they failed. It was not one of his favorite assignments and He honestly wanted to throttle those two idiots who had hurt her put that bruise on her beautifull face. But, atleast Joshua Baldwin had fulfilled one of his own

greatest fantasies, he had the girl he had been dreaming of since grade School right where he wanted her. Now if he could only get his boss to let him keep her after he had gotten what he was after. Joshua smiled as he noticed Daphne getting up from the bed, She was

now looking around and calling for anyone to respond, His smile faded however when he heard her demanding to know where they took

Joe Hardy. Joshua cringed as the memory of seeing his beloved in the arms of the handsome Joseph, as if it wasn't bad enough that it

was Freddy Jones who often held her in his arms while they danced, or even that skinny garbage disposal known as "shaggy" who she

had actually dated once. He had as long as he could recall, always wanted to be the one Daphne turned to for comfort when a scary

"ghost" or a creep with a mask even, But no!.. she didn't even seem to notice him whenever she came home from solving yet another mystery with the so-called "Scooby Gang"!! Joshua knew that the two prisoners should be seperated, if only for the fact that that damn

Joe Hardy had proven to be just too irresistable to his Daphne. Besides the somewhat unexpected appearance of Joe Hardy had been a

huge plus for their bank accounts, for obviously the Boss had even greater plans in store for that particular "prize" .

(* Hi guys, this is a spoiler alert, oh am I roo late? lol well, it is in reference to my stories "Delusions" and "Painfull Deceptions : Delusions Book 2 Moonie's got them both posted. One is still ongoing so please be patient. I love you guys, Thanks..Christine aka HardyboysgalpalC@aol.com please feel free to let me know what you think so far ok. thanks again bye!)

CHAPTER EIGHT

Joe felt his body ache all over, as his captors rather unceremoniously dumped him into what looked like yet another dark prison. The boy although still quite groggily, get to his feet. Joe wrinkled his nose as he became all too aware of a dirty stench only to realize that it belonged to himself. "Man what I would not give for a hot shower and some of Mom's hot cocao right now" He mumbled while his eye's did a quick assessment of the room, which thank god had consisted of a bed, a light and over in the corner, a fully functional shower. He was also now aware of the clean clothes carefully laid out on the bed. After closer inspection Joe found that all the clothes were exactly his size. That fact alone was enough to unnerve him. "Boy, someone did their homework" He muttered, wondering if the kidnappers were

really after Daphne or him,or both. The big question being of course Why? Before he could even begin to ponder that one any farther, He decided it might be best not to 'look a gift horse in the mouth ' as it were and take advantage of the opportunity to clean himself up, after all he did wreak, He thought wrinkling his nose once again. Joe carefully searched the room, yet could not find any sign of a camera, then

retreated to the bathroom, where he found everything he could possibly need, including his favorite shampoo, 'Suave For Men'. Joe was trying to stay alert but the hot steamy water just felt so damn good on his weary muscles. However, this did not stop him from worrying about Daphne and about what their captor had in store for her, for both of them. He finished scrubbing himself after a long while then got out and donned the clean out fit. Joe stood in front of the full length mirror and had to appreciate his appearance if only to commend the person who had picked out such cool clothes Of course the choice of such a formal suit for his attire did create yet another question. Joe did actually seem oddly and unusually comfortable, not to mention masculine in the 'Monkey suit" which he now so deliciously wore. Once e again Joe found himself wondering how Daphne was and even how she would like him all dressed up. Joe for a moment allowed himself to picture the lovely red head with her almond shaped Jade eyes and curvacious figure, also dressed to the nines, then another

face came into his thoughts however, a willowy blonde haired blue/grey eyed beauty who caused Joe's young heart to melt and to erase all images of Daphne Blake or any other woman for that matter, save one, who will always, have a special place in his heart. Joe loved Vanessa Bender and would never even think of hurting her the way he felt he had hurt the other love of his life,sweet Iola Morton, but he did also feel responsible for the young woman's safety. He had to krrp his wits about him, find out who it was that threatened him now and just what connection did this have to Daphne, However more importantly Joe Hardy wanted, no needed to know just what the hell did happened to his new friend Daphne Blake, and what was happening right now. That thought scared Joe, and also served to make him even more determined to get them both out of this situation. "Atleast Frank and the gang are probably going crazy trying to find them. Joe had heard all about Mystery Inc. and all their fascination adventures. He knew that they, especially Freddie Jones would also move Heaven and Hell to find their missing friends..Or so he hoped.

Daphne Blake hoped the very same thing although there was no way that she could inform her new friend Joe Hardy. She sighed in frustration then plopped again upon the bed. Her own 'prison' was by far alot better than the one Joe had found himself in. It had a

bright pale pink hue and the bed was adorned with a huge feathery quilt. Daphne wondered why she was there and why she was getting what she called the 'royal treatment'. What she worried about most of all of course was Joe and how he was being treated. She also wondered nervously, about why they had been seperated and why someone had seen to it that she had acess to a shower and a some clean clothes, very elegant clothes infact. A while later a much cleaner Daphne, came out into the bedroom from the bathroom, looking like a million bucks. From head to toe she was a true beauty in the amethyst colored mini dress she had been given to wear. The dress sparkled as it hugged her form. She slipped on the matching shoes and grabbed the also co-ordinating purse beside her on the bed and

proceeded to look inside. There was a brush and a few much needed supplies which she could not resist using. Daphne was so used to being in these precarious situations but they were honestly never like this and frankly it kinda creeped her out. Daphne's thoughts had turned to the tall muscular young man who had been there for her for so long, as her self appointed protector and of course her friend.

She sighed again, deeply and sadly this time for she really missed the rest of her gang. She no doubt knew however that they were all out there searching for both her and Joe. "Oh Joe where the heck are you! You just better be alright!" She said outloud. Daphne also added a silent prayer for her friends, for anyone to once again come to the rescue. That also happened to be a thought that the young entrapenaur had come to despise over the years. She hated being the "victim" or atleast having everyone believe she was a helpless

twit and she especially hated being reffered to as "Danger-Prone Daphne". Her thought's were interrupted by a sudden noise behind her. She jumped up and grabbed the first thing handy which might make a good usefull weapon, the hair brush, but the sound was a hissing noise as a panel slid open to allow a strange sickly odored gas. She instinctively placed a pillow from the bed over her mouth, but the gas had already begun to make her heard swirl and her senses dull. She tried to stagger off the bed and get to the bathroom, but her body betrayed her and soon she had sunk back down across the bed, only having a second to feel gratefull that it broke her fall before once again falling into oblivous darkness.

Mean-while back in Bayport Fenton had quietly summoned Timothy Blake into his office along with his son, and the Chief who left Riley in charge of clearing out the back yard of the ahrdy home and curtailing any efforts of the press which had now clamored in front of the home. It seemed that when news broke out that not only had one of the town's local heroes had been kidnapped but also the star of a top rated show and not to mention the horrible attack on everyone's beloved animal star, the extremely popular and nationally famous scooby Doo, than all hell broke loose as just about every media outlet and worried fan had all converged at once right infront of the Elm Street home, in fact traffic had been almost at a stand still from the congestion. Con Riley left to deal with that mess while his boss the Chief, had his own hands full with the situation indoors. Following Con's exit, Fenton went over and locked the door to ensure as much privacy as possible. The men considered bringing their wives in to witness the mysterous video tape but then decided against it, only because the contents just might be too horrific for the two already very distraught mothers. Fenton turned and nodded to his eldest son, who slipped the video into the VCR and pressed play. Soon the screen whirred to life as an image of an apparently sleeping Daphne and Joe in a dark dungeon like cell. Mr. Blake had to contain his anger as the picture revealed the ugly bruise upon his lovely young daughter's face. 'No one hurts my baby girl like that and get's away with it!" he silently vowed, but returned his full attention to the video. A young man's voice could be heard over the tape, one that Timothy Blake could almost recall hearing before but it had escaped him for the moment he vowed, they will be found and would pay dearly!

The others in the room also had to stay their own anger as they continued to watch and listen to what the kidnappers wanted. But one thing was also strngely clear. The voice on the tape seemed to only reffer to Daphne, but there was not much mention of Joe at all. It was not as if they didn't have Joe, but clearly there was something else going on here. Fenton and Frank exchanged worried glances. They could see Joe and Daphne together on the video, in the dungeon asleep in each others arms, this of course made Frank hope that Neither Fred nor Vanessa witness that particular part of the video, in fact he had not missed the look angry looked which flashed across the girl's father as he witnessed his beloved little girl in tbe arms of Joe Hardy. Frank knew he himself would have to speak to his ;baby

Bro about that one once they got them safetly home of course. when the tape finally ended there was a deadly silence in the air until someone had finally alowed the deep breath they had collectively been holding.

"well, that was interesting" Fenton said.

"Fenton I will of course need this tape to run the standard tests on it." Collig said in his famous "That is an order" voice.

"I am aware of that Ezra but I ..."

" I will need a copy of the tape for my own people to investigate" Mr. Blake demanded.

"Mr. Blake I am know you don't want to spare any cost to get your child back, I feel the same way about my son, and we are doing whatever possible to accomplish that as soon as possible. " Fenton agreed, trying to assure the worried father.

"Mr. Hardy..Fenton if I may, I know your reputation and have heard about both your son's rapidly growing reputation, but I am also fully aware that being Joseph's father may cause you to falter or, and please forgive me for saying this, but do something irrational..."

"My father never does anything irrational Mr. Blake" Frank interrupted. He hated it when anyone talked to his father this way, However Fenton quickly raised his hand in the air in an effort to quelch the aurgument that he knew was coming an inevitable conclusion.

" Thank you son, But Mr. Blake has a point and a right to have his own people working on this case. It might actually be invaluable to have someone else's input on our findings. I just want the kids and some semblence of normalcy back into all our lives. " Fenton commented. They looked at each other and nodded.

"Alright, now can we get back to our discussion about the instructions those creeps left. Of course I never keep that amount of money laying around." Mr. Blake declared. "I will have to call my people and get them on it A.S. P. "

Collig the man had instantly picked up his cell phone and had begun doing just that when the rest of the men in the room looked at one another, each harboring the same yet unspoken sentence until Frank finally broke the silence with the question currently on all their minds. "Um..excuse me, but I could not have been the only one who noticed that the kidnappers demanded ransom for the return of Daphne and unless I missed something.. .only for Daphne. What about Joe? Why didn't they arrange one for Joe after all the video tape was addressed to both families? " Frank asked, the look of worry on his young face mingled with exaustion, caused his father's heart to break, but at the same time, it soared with fatherly pride for the Boy's keen observation.

"Son, I have as much a clue about that as you do, But I swear we will get to the bottom of this and we will bring Daphne and Joe both back home safetly where they belong" Ezra Collig declared. Fenton nodded his appreciation at his friends words of assurance. But even the seasoned detective and ex New York police officer knew that there could very well be a chance that his son may not be back.

Chapter 9

Sapphire eyes finally popped opened, as Joe Hardy once again returned to the land of the living. Beside him Daphne Blake remained out

of it,her lovely red head drooping forward just enough to hide her pretty face. Joe shot a worried glance in her direction which cost him.

His head swam as a wave of dizziness and nausea from the gas's after effects passed over him. Joe was not so sure he could keep the

nausea down but tried his best until he finally became aware of someone waving something under his nose. Joe instinctively tried to raise his hand to wave them away, but found that his hands had been secured to the arms of the large wooden chair he was in, by a pair of leather straps, his legs likewise were tied the same way. Joe began to struggle as his head continued to clear. A voice cut through the fog, a voice he was not familiar with but knew he soon would all too soon be.

"Mr. Hardy, I'd stop struggling if I were you, after all we wouldn't want you to injure yourself. Not when we have so very much planned for you. " the voice said somewhat cryptically, causing Joe's Blond head to pop up.

"Who are you, And what the hell are you talking about? I am not interested in any plans you or anyone else has for me. What I would like to know is what does this have to do with her? " Joe replied venonously. His gaze never leaving the now stirring form of Daphne Blake. His show of bravery however earned him a hard slap across the face. Joe felt the rough stinging sensation but held back from showing them any kind of reaction. He did catch the reaction from Daphne though as gasped in shock .

"Are you ok Joe?! " Daphne exclaimed. "Leave him alone you jerk!" She screamed at Ernie Macavoy who then turned to raise his hand toward her. However, before he could strike another hand shot up and grabbed Ernie's down. Ernie froze for a second as if shocked that someone would dare stop him. But the hand that did, not only continued to hold fast to Ernie's forearm but had also increased the pain which now throbbed straight down the older man's arm.

"Hey! what the he..." Ernie began but was interrupted by Joshua Baldwin who stared practically straight through him with a deadly serious look.

" If you even think of touching her I'll kill you!" Joshua promised with such venom that even Ernie was shaken to the core.

"Uh..Ok man ..." Ernie Stuttered, as the incredibly strong Joshua forced him to his knees.

"Ahhem?..." A female voice cleared her throat to get everyone's attention. Joshua turned to see Marsha Macabe holding a 45 at him.

"I suggest you let go of my brother right now before I shoot your freaking head right off your shoulder. " She declared aiming the gun right between Joshua's eye's. However the dark haired, blue eyed Joshua held fast to Ernie who struggled angrilly while trying to stay out of his sister's line of fire. Ernie was well aware of his sisters temper and even more aware of her acuracy with a weapon,any weapon

in fact. When Marcia clicked the trigger Joshua also knew she was serious.

" I am not stupid enough to stand up to a bullet but I will however not allow this brute to harm this girl. We need her in one piece if we are to get the money. " Joshua said calmly while tossing Ernie away like a rag doll. Ernie tried to maintain some semblense of dignity by starting to approach Joshua only to be interrupted by his sister.

"Ernie might be a brute but he is still my brother...." She began then saw her brothers movement. "Ernie, jesus man!! didn't this kid already make you look like an idot enough for today?" Marcia said causing her brother to stop in his tracks and turn around to glare at his sister.

"Gee thanks sis" Ernie replied before returning his own icy gaze toward Joe, Daphne and Joshua.

"Whatever, maybe you should go see what is keeping the boss, can you manage that Ern?" Again Ernie glared at his sibling but did as she asked but not before he mumbled a promise to make someone pay. After her brother left, Marcia replaced the gun into the holster

on her hip. "Ya know I am not too happy about you making my brother look like a fool. In other words a warning: Do it again and you're

dead." Marcia promised.

Joe and Daphne looked at each other trying to make sense of the whole volatile situation. Joe wondered just who this guy Joshua was and why would he go that far to protect Daphne,who he had just helped kidnap? Joe also wondered why Daphne looked as though this was the last person on earth she would see here of all places. He would definitly have to ask her about this guy starting with his name, but he didn't have long to find out more about his friends mysterious "hero" when he heard Daphne speak up.

"Joshua?...Joshua Baldwin is that you? " Daphne asked, not sure she was seeing correctly. This man who resembled a much thinner,

geeky teenager from her distant past, had now become a much healthier mass of tan and muscle. The handsome guy blushed at the fact that she actually remembered that he had even existed.

"yeah, it's me although I am a bit suprised that you actually remambered me Daphne"

"Of course I did , I am not like that Joshua, You were always a sweet kid"

"Excuse me? A sweet kid? He helped kidnap you remember?" Joe said incrediously.

"Yeah, and I also just risked my life to stop that ape from hurting her you jerk!" Joshua shot back.

" Well, thanks, and where were you when he was hitting my face?" Joe answered sarcasticlly.

" Oops, sorry I was a little late getting here..You look like you can handle it though "

"Gee, thanks for the compliment" Joe shot back

"well, I am gratefull, But Joshua why did you kidnap us? " Daphne asked.

" I have my orders, sorry guys,nothing personal" Joshua answered but the fact that he never took his eyes off of Daphne told Joe that he was not quite being honest on the personal part atleast. " I did however want to be here to make sure you are kept safe Daph" He replied sincerely. "Good thing I was too huh" He added with a brilliant smile directed solely at the lovely girl.

Joe was not sure what to think, He had a feeling that this guy was serious about his feelings for Daphne, but where would that leave him he wondered. Joe struggled with his bonds to try to stop an irritating itch on one leg.

Meanwhile Back in Bayport:

Fred Jones was growing increasingly restless. He had been in far too many situations where Daphne was the victim of some sort of sick

kidnapping by some stupid guy in a mask but this time was much different. This time they were dealing with someone who had wanted

Daphne's father to pay a million dollars or they would hurt her. This made Fred furious with rage. It also made him feel more helpless than he had ever remembered. Velma and Shaggy tried everything they could think of to cheer up their Blond friend but they were just

as worried as he was, with one exception of course, they were also well aware of the fact that Freddie loved Daphne with all his young heart. Shaggy knew how Fred felt for he too had harbored a crush on miss Blake, however when Daphne made it quite clear that she loved him as a dear friend as she did Velma and for that matter even Scooby as well, Shaggy knew that the attraction between his two

best friends Fred and Daphne was perhaps stronger than either one would admit to. Shaggy had also tried double dating with Velma but it just felt like he was dating his own sister, much like it had with Daphne. Shaggy however did find a connection with willowy Blonde

Maryanne. Whom he had met during the gangs trip to Spooky Island. Velma had also been in a relationship with a great guy who had to

leave on a tour with his band. Poor Velma was heartbroken, until now that is when she got a load of Phil Cohen. Since they met the two

had been practically inseperatable.

" How's the search going?" Velma Dinkley asked as she approached Phil Cohen. He barely looked up from his lap top but nodded his thanks as she handed him a fresh cup of latte. She rubbed his tired shoulders wondering if she was being too forward, however his pleased reaction to this action told her that it was not only alright but very much appreciated as well.

"mmm..." Phil began, his head back slightly as he gave in to Velma's shoulder massage. He lifted the caramel latte to his lips and took a careful sip of the steaming liquid then placed it back down on the table. " I was searching through the files Mr. Blake gave me. He thinks this has to be someone whom he has dealt with in the past." Phil began looking up at her. Velma blushed and stopped her hands

mid massage. Phil caught the frown on her cute freckled face. "Hey, Velm I wasn't complaining hon, that was exactly what I needed just now. You are so incredible you know that?" Phil said sincerely and smiled as he watched Velma's frown turned to a smile that was

so bright he could have it lit up the room. She blushed again and ruffled his dark blond hair. Phil suddenly jumped up and kissed her.

Taken completely aback Velma didn't know what to do except of course blush even deeper. Finally it was Phil who was perhaps even more stunned by his own romantic display that broke the awkward silence which followed.

"Ahem..anyway..um where were we..oh yeah..um,we I was just about to access the file of one of Mr. Blake's most frequently used clients." Phil said hoping to break the tention Velma stiffled a happy giggle behind his back as she watched him attempt to turn all serious again. She glanced at Freddie and felt a sudden pang of guilt, for feeling so happy when her friends were so miserable. Plus she missed her best friend most of all. Velma missed Daphne so much and would do anything to get her home safetly. She hoped to god that both she and Joe were alright, and that they came home soon.

Frank Hardy came into the room. He had been also going crazy but the Cheif had forbid anyone to leave the Hardy home atleast until the crowd had been dispersed. Frank was not too happy at all, neither were any of his friends he realized, especially, fred,Velma and Shaggy who wanted to take Scooby for his walk. Scooby actually seemed to enjoy the attention he was given. Mrs. Hardy and the other ladies all doted on the injured pooch, feeding him very well. But he too missed his friend and the usually reluctant Great Dane

had also felt that he needed to be doing something to help in the search. Especially when he saw the look on his best-friend-in-the -whole-world's face. Shaggy looked miserable. Scooby knew he blamed himself for not getting to the back alley to help their friends, but most of all for the fact that he was helpless as the car hit Scooby. The dog gingerly got up and walked toward his bestest pal and laid his head in the teens lap where Shaggy proceeded to pat it. Frank took the whole scene in and sighed frustrated that there was nothing

they can do to do what they all did best, solve this mystery. That was perhaps until he heard his own best friend Phil Cohen Exclaim.

"Aw Crap! Frank get over here, you are not going to believe what I discovered. " Frank raced over to peer over Phil's shoulder, Velma who stood on the other side looked a little perplexed. while the others all clamored around as close as possible not sure what to expect

but they knew it must have been big because of the gasp which escaped from Frank Hardy's lips.

"What! for crying out loud you guys mind letting the rest of the room in on what you found?!" Freddie demanded. The others nodded in agreement. Phil and Frank exchanged worried glances. It was Frank who spoke first however. The handsome young detective simply

had to say the name of the person, in order to get a stunned reaction from most of the crowd.

"Victoria Butler!"

Chapter 10

Note: HI guys Christine here. I just wanted you to know that if you are following my story "Painful Deception" than you should by now know just who the heck Victoria Butler is, but as I am not done with that story quite yet, I will try not to give it away.teehee..anyway, I

just want you to know that she is going to be an ongoing character and not a very nice one either. nasty, nasty whitch actually, and she has big plans for my boys. oh yeah and she is the mother of Charity and paul Butler. But you will just have to read "PD" to know more about that now won't you. ..love alway's me. Oh yeah and I don't own any of the old characters in these pages never did, someday perhaps when I hit the lottery but not now. bye.

"Whoa! You've got to be kidding!"Fred exclained after hearing the story of how Victoria Butler entered their lives. He had also earned a new respect for both the Hardy's for their bravery and endurance, especially Joe who once again had to deal with the likes of this mad

woman. Fred looked at the image on the screen. A striking mature woman with auburn hair and dark green eyes, almost like her own

daughter Charity, a young woman who first made the boys aquaintence years ago when she was living as a jewel their, one of the best infact. Joe had been particularly affected by Charity, but that was way before he met and fell deeply in love with Vanessa Bender. It was later revealed that Charity was actually the step daughter of the man who ordered and led the terrorist group known only as the

Assassins to plant a bomb in the boys yellow sedan. A bomb that we all now know was responsible for taking the life of Iola Morton. it was Joe who had finally put a stop to the terrorist known as AL Rousassa or "The Bullet", who also slayed and took over the name of Charity's real dad Sam Butler long before coming to Bayport and changing all their lives forever.

"Aw Man, that really bites." Shaggy said then turned to Chet Morton who was quite during whole story. "I am sorry about your sis Chet

It was not right"

"No kidding," Was Chet's only reply.

Realizing that this might be dredging up painfull feelings for his friends, Frank tried to change the subject. "Hey Phil, think you can print me out a few copies of this info. I want to show dad and ask Mr. Blake a few questions about what he knows."

"Sure thing best bud, just give me a moment" Phil answered. Mrs. Hardy walked in the room just then to announce that the police have secured the area and that it was alright for them to finally leave. But she also passed along a warning for them to let the police do their

jobs and a promise that they will be kept up to date on all findings. Of course Laura Knew full well that atleast a few of the young faces in this weary crowd had already disreguarded that last part. quite possible her own son who would not hesitate to do anything it took to get his younger brother back.

Sitting with his limbs tied so tightly caused Joe's muscles to painfully tense up. He had been trying for what seemed like forever to loosen the slack on the straps. From the frustrated look on Daphne's face, Joe realized that she must have been doing the same. But

it was not easy with Joshua and Marcia standing constant guard over them. Joe again wondered who it could be that would have such

an interest in both Daphne and himself. He tried to mentally think back to all the people who both Joe and Frank had encountered, there

was just so many he realized with a frustrated sigh. Then he heard the door open and caught the scent of a woman's perfume. He froze

instantly recognizing the scent and who it belonged to. Joe had also remembered the wearer bragging about how the fragrence was a

one of a kind perfume, a gift from her late husband. Daphne watched Joe's _expression turn to one of shock and she could swear she had

also seen fear in his dazzling sapphire eye's as the stunningly sophisicated auburn haired woman moved closer to him. The woman had

her face now as close to Joe's as possible so she could barely hear the words oozing from her crimson lips. But she could hear the slap

which the woman delivered after Joe's also barely audible reaction. Joe's head snapped back but suprisingly he returned it to it's place

staing as if right through the woman. Daphne was at once in awe of his strength but also more scared for anyone's safety than ever before in her young life!

" Hello Joseph" Victoria began icily. Her face now almost touching his. Joe sat in stoic silence. He had never expected to see her, well, not that he didn't expect some sort of form of retrobution however, the last time he heard the woman who was now breathing down his handsome neck was rotting away in a maximum security cell, for kidnapping, murder and well, a whole lot of other charges.

"fancy seeing you here Viper, I thought you were safetly locked away, let me guess you slithered under the gate like the snake that you try to emulate? Joe said defiantly. This earned him a hard slap in the face, her well manicured fingers scrating his cheek causing a drop

of blood to ooze.

"Shh...Joey, You really should learn to keep that tongue from flapping or you just might end up loosing it. " She spat. Victoria let her lips brush against Joe's causing him to jump back startled. His reaction caused her to lick her own lips and smile. "mm..you are a sweet young thing now aren't you!"

"Get away from him you witch!" Daphne protectively cried.

Victoria straightened up almost amused by outburst. But annoyed as well. No one tells her what to do, or insults her, even the spoiled rich brat who was key to attaining over a million dollars from said brat's father.

"I am not quite sure if you guys are incredibly brave or just damn stupid! I mean just think about the situation here children, I am here

in charge while you two are all tied up and as Joseph is already well aware of, I can and will eliminate anyone who pisses me off! Oh and

I must admit to the fact that you both are getting just a little too close to that point. Ok, so if we are clear on that little note, I think we should have some quiet time in the class room while the teacher finishes the lesson of the day, pain 101.." Victoria threatened pacing back and forth between her two "guests" waving the knife she now held in her hands. Joe had indeed seen her this way before and he had to admit to himself that maybe this time he just might have gone too far. This woman had killed before and would not hesitate to kill again if she felt the desire. This made

Joe shiver with a fear he had not felt since the first time he had to deal with Victoria Butler. He tried not to let anyone else see just how terrified he was, especially Daphne, But right then Joe said a silent prayer. "Please atleast get Daphne out of here safetly." He prayed to himself, then quickly added "...And please let my brother Frank know where we are so he can save us!, Oh Frank where are you?!"

Joe sighed. Then regretted that part of the prayer. Joe then realized that if that part came true than Frank would be walking right into a

trap and perhaps certain death. Joe Shuddered again. This was followed by another burst of pain as a fist suddenly came crashing into his face.

"Aurgh!" It was Frank Hardy who screamed out in pain in response to his younger sibling being repeatedly hit in the face. Frank was however no where near his brother though. Callie Shaw was by her boyfriends side in an instant.

"Frank! What happend?!!" She exclaimed, but she along with the others there already knew full well what had happend. Something terrible was happening to Joe and Somehow, through the special bond the brothers shared, Frank was feeling the effects as well. He

had grabbed his face a few times almost falling over from the sudden dizziness which had threatened to over take hime once again.

Callie tried to wipe away the frightened tears which began to fall, before Frank could see them but it was too late. He looked up at his

pretty girlfriend, the one person who even came close to comparing to Joe in his heart and his painfilled eye's now took on one of guilt

for upsetting this girl he loved so much. Callie helped Frank to sit down in the passenger seat of the Hardy's Police van. Then climbed in and sat next to Chet. Biff volunteered to drive.

"Sor..sorry guys, don't know what just came over me. I do know this, more than ever I have to get to Joe. I have to find where that evil Witch has taken my brother. " Frank vowed as Biff Hooper pulled out of the Hardy drive way. They were being followed by the Mystery

machine which held the scooby gang and of course Phil who immediatly jumped at Velma's suggestion that he ride along with them. A

still distraught Vanessa Bender volunteered to stay and help the other women and to remain by the phone incase the police or anyone

called to discuss the ransome. Frank knew how much she wanted to help find her boyfriend but he was also grateful that she wasn't there to see his reaction to whatever must be happening worse to the young man she dearly loved.

The crowd had decided to split up. Frank,Freddie and Velma each wanted to check out the back alley where Joe and Daphne were kidnapped from. They knew that the police had already gone over the area with a fine tooth comb but they didn't earn their reputations

as sucessful detectives by ignoring the fact that there was usually alway's clue or piece of evidence the police may have over looked

which might be instrumental in their search for the truth. This lucky break came in the form of a piece of paper. and a copy of the security tape that Mr. Prito had handed over to the police which not only captured the whole incident but the license plate as well. It was a start Frank thought, still reeling from the pain to his face. He just could not stop worrying about the condition of his brother. He

knew that Joe had been hurt and that left him feeling both helpless and ever more determined to get a hold of whoever hurt his brother

and make them sorry they ever messed with the Hardy Boys or for that matter their friends!!!