《Omnitrix: DC's New Dawn》


 1 - The Flashpoint : A New Hope

    Spoiler for The Flash movie. Proceed with caution if you don''t want to be spoiled. But I doubt anyone one would heed my warning. And again, I do not own the DC characters and Omnitrix from Ben 10 series. They all belong to their respective owners.


    I am just writing a fan-fic, so don''t sue me!


    Peace out, ( ?§Õ?)¤Ä Bye


    ****


    Bar


    Barr


    Barry


    "BARRY, WAIT!!!"


    The man in the red spandex with golden LEDs shouted at another person in a red costume with a yellow lightning bolt spray painted on it, whose suit appeared to be crafted from remnants of a cosplay costume.


    "We''ve got to save them! We can save them!" said the man in the $10 cosplay costume.


    "No... No, we can''t, Barry. This is inevitable. It''s an absolute point in time. We can try a million times, but we can''t fix this; this world is destined to perish today."


    The man in the $10,000 costume looked around as the space around them slowly began to disintegrate.


    "Look around... see how much damage we''re causing to this universe," the man in the red suit with LED lights turned back to the man in the $10 costume. "Now, we have to stop, okay?"


    While the man in the $10,000 costume attempted to convince the other to cease this madness, his words only further infuriated the man in the $10 spandex suit.


    "Listen, dude, I was just doing my laundry, and you''re the one who showed up and told me I''m a superhero. And now what? You don''t want me to be? Well, guess what! It''s too late! I AM... The Flash. And nobody dies! I can save everyone!" Barry roared, his voice echoing throughout the Speed Force.


    ...


    Both men in red suits were ''The Flash,'' a superhero from Central City. He got his powers after being struck by lightning and doused in chemicals, gaining a connection to the Speed Force, becoming the fastest man alive.


    The man in the $10 costume was his younger self from a new timeline created when he attempted to save his mother from being killed when he was young. However, things went terribly wrong, altering the course of history. Many superheroes who were supposed to exist to protect Earth were nowhere to be found, leaving the world facing an impending threat with no one to stop it.


    So, with the assistance of his younger self, Batman (Thomas Wayne), and Kara Zor-EL, a Kryptonian, he attempted to confront a world-ending threat: General Zod and his subordinates. Zod had come to Earth in search of the codex stored within the last daughter of Krypton, Kara Zor-El. However, the battle didn''t go as planned, as Kara wasn''t strong enough to defeat Zod like Kal-El, known as Superman, and she perished while fighting him. Batman also met his demise while destroying the Kryptonian ship.


    This only hastened the planet''s demise as the codex was extracted from Kara''s body, and Zod initiated the terraforming of Earth into the new Krypton. So, both Barrys decided to attempt to travel back in time to prevent the tragedy, but it didn''t go as planned, resulting in the deaths of both Kara and Batman once more. They made repeated attempts to reverse time, but after a few tries, future Barry understood that there was a critical juncture in history that could not be altered.


    ...


    "No, we can''t, Barry. We can''t... not this time. Sometimes we have to let go," Barry said, understanding the pain of letting his mom die again.


    "Let go of Mom!" the younger Barry shouted back in anger that his future self wanted to let their mom die.


    "She will always be alive somewhere in time, always. Just not for us," Barry replied.


    "You''re full of it, dude," the younger one cursed.


    "I am going back," the future Barry said and took a step back to run back in time to undo the change he made, but he was stopped by the younger version.


    "Going back! You''re going back to kill Mom?!" the younger version shouted as he grabbed his future self. "No! You stay! You stay right here. Just give me one more chance."


    With those words, he dashed out of the chronoball. The future Barry tried to stop him but was caught by another speedster covered in black armor. The man grabbed him and slammed him to the floor, then used his lightning to strangle Barry.


    "AAAAHHHHA!!!" Barry screamed in agony as his limbs were stretched forcefully by the lightning binds.


    The man then slammed Barry down to the ground again. Barry crawled from the floor to look at the being who had knocked him out of the Speed Force before, causing all of this to come to fruition.


    "We started off on the wrong foot," Barry tried to lighten the mood. "Let''s start again. I''m the Flash. What''s your name?"


    "I have lived... more than you can dream," the black-armored man replied.


    [Crackle]


    "Not an answer," Barry said as he rubbed his hand to charge static electricity. "Do you, like, rehearse that?"


    [Crackle][Electricity surging]


    As the charge was complete and Barry was about to blast the dark speedster with his lightning, the younger Barry entered the chronoball unexpectedly. The younger Barry was shocked by the dark speedster.


    "Get out of here, Barry," Barry warned his younger self as he brought his hands together to blast the dark speedster away.


    But the dark speedster moved faster, stopping his hands from touching each other and releasing the stored charge. While they both were grunting at each other, the younger Barry charged his lightning and shot it at the dark speedster, successfully knocking him off from future Barry.


    [Crackle][Crackle]


    The dark speedster got to look at the younger Barry, one side of his helmet disintegrated to dust, showing a scar running across his cheek. The younger Barry saw it and was shocked.


    "Oh, my God. So you''re... You are..." He struggled to find the words.


    "Yes, I am... you," answered the dark speedster.


    The dark speedster turned to future Barry. "We are so close. I''ve got it... almost figured it out."


    "How long have you been doing this?" Barry asked the clearly older dark speedster.


    "Time is inconsequential," the dark speedster replied as he extended his hand toward Barry. "Come on, Barry."


    Future Barry moved away from him, not taking his hand.


    [Lightning Crackle] [Rumble]


    All three Barrys turned toward the sound, only to see many worlds colliding into each other. They observed numerous versions of themselves in these worlds, all running like them within the Speed Force Chronobowl. A Superman with long hair was fighting against a giant spider.


    "Look at what''s happening... These worlds... [Explosion] Colliding and collapsing... We did this. We''re destroying the fabric of everything. You have to stop," Barry tried to convince the dark speedster.


    "It stops when I''ve fixed it!" the dark speedster shouted back. "...It''s not entirely your fault, Barry. I pushed you out of the Chronobowl on that September 29th, so you could set me on this path. Hmm?" The dark speedster talked as he walked around Barry. "How do you like our endless paradox? I made you create me... and now you are the one in my way. No matter how close I get to winning this fight, you go back and let Mom die. You are the inevitable intersection. And you do have to let go."


    "What''s he talking about?" the younger Barry asked in confusion.


    "You are my hero," The dark Flash said before he charged up his blade with his energy.


    The dark speedster moved toward Barry and swung his blade to impale him, but the younger Barry jumped in to protect him, causing himself to get impaled by the blade.


    The dark speedster stumbled back in shock as he had stabbed his younger self.


    "Hey, hey, it''s okay. It''s gonna heal. It''s gonna heal!" Future Barry tried to console Younger Barry, preventing him from panicking.


    "I... I just wanted to..."


    [Rumble]


    Both of them turned to the sound and watched as the dark speedster was erased from existence and turned to dust. Barry, understanding the meaning, tried to stop the younger Barry from bleeding.


    "Hey," Younger Barry called and pulled out a small teddy bear from under his suit, handing it over to Future Barry. "You tell Mom I love her."


    Those were his last words as he took his last breath. Seeing the death of his younger self, whom he thought of like a brother, dying in his arms, the scarlet speedster cried in silence.


    [Rumble]


    With the death of the dark speedster, who had been causing disturbances in time, the worlds returned to normal as they began to fix themselves and continue on their own courses.


    With the worlds fixed and the damages undone, The Flash ran back to correct what he had done wrong.


    ***


    As The Flash corrected the change he had made to create this new timeline, history began to change, and the universal knots unraveled themselves.


    Back on the battlefield, when General Zod had stabbed Kara Zor-El, time was not flowing forward but backward, against its natural course. Soldiers were running backward, their bullets returning to their guns, and the destruction recoiling. However, amidst all of time moving backward, a single anomaly walked among the destruction.


    He casually strolled toward the spot where Zod had stabbed Kara while Faora held her up. The anomaly extended his hands and gently took Kara from Faora''s grasp, and she let go as she moved backward in time. Unlike how they should have perceived him moving backward in time, he seemed like a mirage, appearing within time.


    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    The past versions didn''t see him moving backward in time; to them, he was moving normally. Only he was moving back in time, but he was not confined by time itself.


    While he held Kara tightly, her emotions reversing as she tried to comprehend what was happening, the anomaly gazed into the distance, where a lightning storm raged, simultaneously destroying and restoring the timeline.


    "Sir, the temporal storm is here. It is advised to leave quickly," a voice came from the watch he was wearing on his left hand.


    "I know, Trix," replied the anomaly.


    He then held Kara close to his body as the lightning storm approached. He lifted his hand and looked at his watch. The futuristic device had a hexagonal faceplate with two golden lines connecting the corners, creating an hourglass shape. The watch hummed with an unknown power.


    "Password: ZE1206, lock form."


    With those words, the watch flashed with golden light before seemingly sinking into the anomaly''s wrist. Following the disappearance of the watch, the dark skin of the anomaly began to be covered by a substance resembling the night sky, a dark background filled with countless stars.


    When the transformation was complete, the anomaly appeared as a being that embodied the universe itself. He then waved his hand, enveloping Kara in a chrono-shield before using his finger to tear the fabric of reality.


    "It''s time to move to another dimension." With those words, he walked into the tear, vanishing with his ethereal words echoing in the new timeline for an eternity to come.


    The next moment, the tear in space was annihilated by the temporal storm, erasing everything that indicated the presence of a dimensional tear.


    ***


    The dimensional tear closed behind the anomaly as he entered a new, vibrant universe.


    He stood above a beautiful planet that was experiencing its sunrise, with a yellow sun in the center of their solar system. When he looked down, he could see many people waking up from their slumber, some returning to their dream world.


    He knew he was now in another universe, on a different planet, but this didn''t deter him from savoring the work of creation. Life thrived in this universe, and its mystical beauty never failed to amaze him in all its glory.


    His gaze then turned to the girl in his arms, frozen in time with a confused expression. He knew his mission, his purpose, was to protect this anomaly created by a temporal rupture when The Flash had created a new timeline. He had fulfilled his mission and could rest. However, seeing her and understanding her past, he couldn''t find it in his heart to let her suffer alone again.


    He looked at the bright yellow sun in the distance and the new world at his feet, and he realized his destination was this planet. He was well aware of the dangers that lurked in the darkness of this universe, but he also possessed the power to protect it.


    With determination, he made his decision and undid the temporal shield.


    ...


    With her frozen time undone, Kara looked at the changed world around her in confusion before she noticed a being that stood before her. However, it wasn''t her fault, as the Celestialsapiens easily blended with the universe.


    When her eyes landed on the cosmic being, she moved back in alertness. She could feel the cosmic power radiating from the being, some similar to the stellar energy from the yellow sun. She then looked around once more, realizing that she was now in space.


    "Why am I here? What happened to Zod? Where is Barry?" She questioned, unperturbed by the power emanating from the being before her.


    The cosmic being waved his hand, and starlight gathered at his command, forming a projection of when she was killed and the various different variations.


    Kara was confused and taken aback by it, as she still remembered her fight with General Zod, which had only been a few seconds ago.


    "Kara Zor-El," The being called, his voice ancient as the cosmos itself. "The last daughter of Krypton. You are a temporal anomaly created by The Flash, Barry Allen. You died fighting General Zod, and he retrieved the codex and terraformed the planet into New Krypton while killing billions of species. But it has been changed by The Flash as he undid his mistakes."


    Kara listened to the being''s words, taking a moment to understand them. She felt grief, not for her death, as she was prepared for it, but for letting millions die. However, knowing that Barry had done something to save them all, she felt relief. She didn''t know how she could feel that way for humans who had imprisoned her.


    "Kara Zor-El, you are one of the last Kryptonians in existence, the last hope. I saved you to give you another chance, a new hope."


    Kara''s attention was brought back by the cosmic being''s ancient voice. She then saw him point toward the planet below them.


    "This planet is the same as the one you were imprisoned on, but here, your cousin Kal-El arrived safely on this planet. He is now the strongest being, protecting the planet from all threats with the help of other superpowered individuals."


    He paused and looked toward her.


    "This is your new hope. A new start. A new home. But remember, you are an anomaly from another universe, and there is another Kara Zor-El who will arrive on this planet. There are also many threats that will aim to conquer this planet as it holds many secrets.


    So, knowing this, do you agree to protect it?"


    He asked, his tone final.


    Kara instinctively knew that her answer would change the course of her future. But she already had her answer.


    "Yes," Kara answered.


    The cosmic being nodded before gesturing toward the world.


    "Welcome to DC."


    ***


    "DC?"


    Kara asked, puzzled as she didn''t know what that meant.


    "It is the name given to this multiversal bubble. This is just one of the many multiverses in existence, a number you can''t even imagine," The cosmic being explained in his ancient voice.


    "Okay," Kara simply nodded.


    "As my time in this universe is about to end, I shall show you where to start your journey," He then pointed toward a city with many high-rising buildings and intricate roads filled with many people, "It''s Metropolis, guarded by Kal-El. You can meet him there."


    Kara gave a nod in acknowledgment.


    "And on a final note, absorb as much stellar energy as you can. It will help you grow stronger, but don''t forget to increase your physical strength," He advised.


    Kryptonians don''t gain strength instantly under the yellow sun; it happened over time. That was why Superman was as strong as he was, having lived his whole life under the yellow sun.


    "Now, off you go," He crossed his arms as he looked at Kara, waiting for her to leave first.


    "Okay, and... Thank you,"


    Kara responded, eager to get away from this unknown entity. She knew she shouldn''t blindly trust what someone, or something, said, but she instinctively felt that he was telling her the truth. She still remembered her weakening as she fought with Zod.


    She gave him a final nod of appreciation before she began to fly toward the bustling city. She didn''t look back as she flew towards the city, trusting that the entity would not harm her. Her body was weakened, and if not for the rising sun giving her energy, she would have fallen towards the planet rather than flown.


    Kara flew for a few minutes, taking her time to observe this new planet and its inhabitants. She saw a city inside the ocean, an island full of women, and an underground gathering beneath another city. She saw people using many different powers, different from hers, while some used gadgets to simulate those powers. She saw people dressed in costumes defeating villains, and she even recognized one. She also saw lightning streaks that she recognized as stopping thieves in a different city.


    After her leisurely flight, Kara appeared above the city called Metropolis. She knew her cousin in this universe should be here, but she had forgotten to ask how she could meet him. However, being a Kryptonian under the yellow sun, she knew how sharp their senses were. So, she decided to call him.


    "KAL-El!!!"


    Her voice boomed across Metropolis, drowning out the city''s noise. She then flew up a bit so others could see her. She waited, with the rising sun bathing her in its warmth, her body growing stronger with each passing second under its rays.


    She waited for a minute, but she couldn''t see anyone approaching, not even any masked individuals.


    Just when she was about to call again, a voice answered from behind.


    "Who might you be?"


    Kara turned to see a man dressed in red and blue with the symbol of hope on his chest. She understood that it was her cousin who had survived, but what she wasn''t expecting was that he would be a grown man, not the baby cousin she had been sent to protect.


    "I am Kara Zor-El, daughter of Zor-El and Alura In-Ze, from the planet Krypton."


    Superman or Clark was taken aback to know that there was another Kryptonian. But another shock followed.


    "I am your cousin from another universe," Kara explained.


    "Cousin? Another universe?" Superman asked.


    "Yes, from another universe where you failed to arrive on Earth and I did. I was imprisoned for years, but I escaped with the help of Barry and Thomas. I couldn''t stop Zod," Kara lowered her head, feeling guilty about the world she had failed to protect.


    "Okay," Superman sensed that the mood was turning dark, so he tried to change the subject. "Why don''t we go somewhere else to talk? It''s not good to keep flying in the air."


    Kara agreed with his suggestion and gave a nod.


    "Okay, follow me," Superman then turned and started to fly.


    Kara followed him, but the journey was long as Superman stopped to save people. He saved falling people, rescued those trapped in burning buildings, and stopped criminals in their tracks, doing even the smallest of help. Superman scratched his head as he left Kara waiting.


    "I''m sorry, but I have to keep the city safe."


    "I understand," Kara gave him a small smile.


    Superman scanned the whole of Metropolis to see if he was needed. After confirming that he wasn''t needed at the moment, he flew out of the city and towards a more rural area. With his super speed, the silhouette of the high-rise city shrank in the horizon. The scenery shifted from the smoky city to the clean, fresh air of the countryside. He stopped when he reached a small house in the middle of a farm.


    It was the house where he had grown up.


    ***


    The anomaly stood in empty space, surrounded by celestial objects.


    The moon orbited the Earth, always drawn to her but never touching. It spun around her in celestial beauty, sharing its light with those in darkness.


    He couldn''t help but be amazed by the beauty of creation. Its ever-changing beauty was still breathtaking. He stopped admiring and looked down at Earth, at Kara, who was following Clark into the house.


    As if feeling his gaze, she looked up at the sky, her eyes scanning the celestial canvas, but she couldn''t find him. As she continued to search, Clark''s voice called her, and she stopped searching and went inside.


    "Time to go," The anomaly muttered.


    As if responding to those words, a golden light covered the Celestialsapien. When the golden light dissipated, it left a human. The man appeared to be in his thirties, with dark chestnut skin, deep black eyes resembling an abyss, a triangular nose, thin lips, and a trimmed beard.


    The man looked down at his watch, which was glowing dimly. It was out of charge. It had an infinite energy core, but that didn''t mean it worked indefinitely. It could work indefinitely but was not advised to. It needed to return to cooldown mode.


    "Okay, Trix. Our journey ends here, but your journey will begin anew," The man said as he removed the watch from his hand.


    "It was my honor serving you," A feminine mechanical voice sounded from the watch as the golden light pulsed.


    "It was mine. So, off you go," Without further ado, he hurled the watch toward the planet. It was an unexpected action, but the watch reacted by releasing a golden light that formed a protective cover around it as it entered Earth''s atmosphere.


    The watch fell toward Earth with a fiery trail, like a meteor.


    Watching the watch falling toward Earth, the man smiled. He knew that sending the Omnitrix to the DC Universe, where all kinds of aliens gather, was like giving a Pok¨¦mon trainer a Pok¨¦ball that could catch all Pok¨¦mon. It would create chaos, turning someone into an all-powerful being. But did he care? Not one bit.


    He was here to deliver two things: Kara, the temporal anomaly, and the Omnitrix. The Omnitrix was for a fellow ''SoulBound'' who was stationed in this multiversal bubble. He would need it as the storm that was arriving was something the heroes of this world couldn''t handle.


    "Wish you luck; you''ll need it," He said that with a tired smile appearing on his face, "The darkest hours are approaching."


    He then extended his hand and pointed toward the empty space near him. At first, nothing seemed to happen, but slowly but surely, the light distorted at that point. As time passed, the distortion grew, creating a black hole.


    Seeing that the path had been connected, he walked into it and vanished from the DC multiverse.


    ***


    "So you''re saying that a cosmic being saved you from your universe and brought you here. Then he asked you to protect this world, and you agreed. After that, he told you to come meet me. Am I understanding this correctly?" Clark asked.


    "Mostly, but yes," Kara answered.


    Clark supported his head with his hands, not quite sure how to process the situation. He wasn''t in the best state of mind to fully comprehend everything, but as a caring cousin, he knew he needed to help Kara.


    "My mother stays here, and she will be home in an hour. You can stay here for the time being. I''ll come back after my work ends," Clark explained.


    "Your work?" Kara inquired.


    "No, I have to go to the office," Clark clarified, then got up from his seat.


    "Let me come with you!" Kara said as she followed him outside.


    "No need, rest for now. I''ll inform my mother, and she will take care of you," Superman replied before flying away.


    Kara wasn''t sure how to feel about being left alone in this unfamiliar world. She wandered around the small, old house with a farm surrounding it and a barn in the corner. It was a typical countryside setting. Kara tried to find something to do, but there wasn''t much she could do at the moment.


    Feeling a bit bored, she eventually made her way to the porch and sat in a chair, gazing at the calm countryside scenery. Here, she wasn''t locked up or fighting a war to save a planet. She finally had some time to think about the situation she was in. She had somehow ended up here while in the midst of a battle on another world, and it had happened so quickly that she hadn''t had time to process it. But now, she had to adapt to this new reality.


    Sitting on the porch, she reflected on her conversation with the cosmic being who had saved her.


    ''Kara Zor-El, you are one of the last Kryptonians in existence, the last hope. I saved you to give you another chance, a new hope.''


    "A new hope," Kara muttered to herself as she looked at the unfamiliar world around her.


    In this world, she was free. She didn''t need to fight a war to protect the planet, nor was she imprisoned in a dark cell. This new world represented her fresh start, her new hope.


    ''And there will be many who want to conquer this planet. So, knowing this, do you agree to protect it?''


    A new hope that she was duty-bound to protect as a Kryptonian, a symbol of hope. That''s why she had promised to protect this new hope. With her resolve strengthened, Kara sat there, savoring the peaceful moment her new hope had brought her.


    "New hope," she whispered, reaffirming her commitment.


    *****


    Add it to your library if you like it and leave a comment, it helps as motivation.

 2 - Mission

    It is a fanfic and I do not own DC or Ben 10 elements and characters.


    *****


    A golden trail dragged behind a meteor.


    "Hm, there is a meteor on the sky," A young man spoke onto his flip phone.


    "I can, Zion. And don''t change the subject, why did you take the car?" The voice came from the phone.


    "I wanted to ride it," the young man replied.


    He turned to look out the window, his eyes scanning the wheat field that stretched. He was now stealing the car of his friend to escape from his backwater town to go to a city.


    "But you don''t have a license!" The voice snapped at him.


    "Ah c''mon, you know why I stole your car," Young man, known as Zion, snapped back.


    "We already had this conversation! I know that you are bored about the stagnant state of Heavenfield but it is safer here than those high tower city," The voice explained in a tired voice.


    "I know, I know. But I want something more, spice in my daily life. All my days are just a repeated of the day before," Zion replied.


    He understood that his home was safe but his heart yearned for more, he wanted an adventure. He wanted the thrill of the unknowns, a calling of the danger.


    Seeing that his friend wouldn''t listen, the voice changed tactics. "Zion, I am not going to say anything about you going to a city but bring the car back. I need it! Get a car for yourself if you want to go to a city!"


    This instantly worked. "Uhhh," Zion groaned and hit the breaks.


    [Tires screeching sounds]


    The car screeched to a stop.


    "My tire better not be burned, Zion!" the voice said.


    "Yeah yeah, your precious car''s safe," Zion''s voice oozed with sarcasm.


    Zion didn''t want to take the car away after his friend said he needed it. He never liked borrowing someones stuff. It didn''t sit well with him, exactly like how he doesn''t like to share his own. He only borrowed the car today because he couldn''t take the boring town anymore.


    "Yes, it is my precious car," the voice said, "Come back, now. Pastor asked us to deliver some milk to orphanage for the service tomorrow."


    With that as if knowing Zion would return, the call cut with a beep.


    "AHHHHH," Zion groaned in frustration.


    He leaned back on the seat as he felt his energy leak away. He could see the outline of the city in the distance. He could just step on the gas and reach there before sundown, his dream was within his grasp but he couldn''t. He was indebted to that boring place.


    Zion arrived at the church doorstep one fateful day. An abandoned baby, whose parents couldn''t take care of him. He was taken in by the compassionate pastor who found him that day. Growing up in the church orphanage, Zion''s childhood was marked by the comforting routines of daily prayers and the camaraderie of fellow orphans.


    However, the color of his skin, a beautiful chestnut brown, and his mixed Asian heritage made him stand out in a predominantly homogeneous community. This made his stay a bit difficult as those who are different always face discrimination.


    But amides these difficulties, Zion found solace in his friendship with a kind-hearted boy name Mark. Mark had a gift for making others feel valued and included, and he never judged Zion. Their friendship became something he cherished in his life.


    But as he grew older, his feelings toward the town where church orphanage was located became more complex. On one hand, he cherished the close-knit community and the memories he had made within the church''s walls. On the other hand, he couldn''t shake the sense that the town was too small and limited. He found himself yearning for something more, an adventure beyond the familiar streets and routines.


    As Zion''s yearning for adventure and the city grew stronger, he found himself at odds with his friend Mark, who had a completely different outlook on their hometown. While Zion saw the town as limiting and mundane, Mark cherished the tight-knit community, the familiar faces, and the sense of belonging that the town offered.


    Their contrasting desires didn''t diminish their friendship, but it did lead to heartfelt discussion and debates. Mark, in his genuine way, expressed how much he valued the town''s simplicity and the connections they had formed over the years. He believed that there was beauty in the routine, in knowing every corner and every person by name.


    Zion struggled to reconcile his own aspirations with Mark''s contentment. He admired Mark''s ability to find joy in what he viewed as a small world, but he couldn''t shake the feeling that he was meant for something beyond.


    While Zion was talking a walk down the memory lane, he noticed that the sky was brightening up. Curious, he got down from the car to gaze at the sky, only to see the light in the sky getting bigger and brighter. Zion understood that the meteor had turned and was coming towards him but instead of panicking, he stood their, mesmerized as if a spell was cast on him.


    In the mesmerized state, Zion extended his left hand toward the rushing light, his moments rigid like a mannequin. He stood their until the meteor fell on him, but instead of a flaming rock hitting earth and creating a fiery crater, a golden light washed over him. When the light settled, Zion stood in place without moving.


    Zion who was in daze, slowly recovered, now filled with eons of memories, experiencing them all in but a split second. His eyes widened as his lips twitching as they curled up. With a broke smile, he looked down at his left wrist. His former empty wrist now had a watch attached to it.


    The watch resembled a digital wristwatch. Its faceplate resembling a octagon but more like a square with black, white and gold color scheme. The faceplate black with two gold stripes forming an outline for hourglass and extending to the strap and around, connecting back. The watches hourglass shaped hummed with golden light before turning black


    Zion looking at the watch, he knew what it was. It was Omnimatrix or Omnitrix, created by a Galvan scientist named Azmuth. It was the best of his creation, made to bring peace and harmony to the universe. But the one he was wearing now was different from the real Omnitrix even though it resembled one.


    Zion then looked up to the sky, his smile widening into a grin. He now knew his purpose and his place in this universe. Even though his memory bank had expanded to an unimaginable level, his core personality and memories were retained, not changing one bit of his character. The new memories were storied like a fleeting dream not colliding with his core memories.


    He was still the small town boy who want to go to the big city, just the void of purpose had been filled.


    Now knowing what he need to do, Zion got into the car and turned back to Heavenfield. He still need to deliver the milk to the orphanage, which is just a bunch of bull his friend spouted to bring him back.


    ***


    It took about an hour for Zion to return.


    Seeing the ''Welcome back to Heavenfield'' sign, a small smile crept up his lips. Even though he repeatedly said that he hated this small town, he still hiddenly loved it. With the car rushing into the town, Zion could already see that chapel tower in the middle of the city.


    He could also see his annoying friend standing outside the church, clearly waiting for him. When his friend noticed the car coming, he looked at Zion and gave him a knowing smile. To which he scowled in annoyance.


    He gently parked the car in front of the church but he didn''t rush to get out. Seeing his friend not getting out and was still annoyed, Mark walked to the side and knocked on the car window. Zion begrudgingly rolled down the window. Mark propped himself on the window and looked at his angry friend.


    "How was your ride?" Mark asked.


    Zion scowled at Mark''s remarks, clearly being poked on sore spot.


    "What do you think?" Zion asked through gritted teeth.


    Seeing his friend clearly frustrated at the fact that he had to return, Mark tried to sooth him, "I know, Zion, that you are trying to find your purpose but leaving your family to go to city where you don''t know anyone, feels like a total pain to me."


    "I wanted to see, you know, the world outside of this small town," Zion lowered his head, his anger fading away, only leaving a small frustration.


    "You can but not in my car. So, now get down. You won''t win sympathy from me, I know all your acts," Mark smiled as he hit Zion back.


    Zion lifted his head and looked a Mark, his eyebrows furrowed, "I will and in my own car." Saying that he quickly got out of the car, letting Mark take it.


    "How will you do it, my friend?" Mark asked as got in car.


    "I will build it on my own. On to the junkyard, I go," Zion spoke and walked in the direction of the junkyard.


    "Do you even know how to make one?" Mark chuckled at his friends antics.


    "I will learn," Zion barked back and walked away.


    Mark just shook his head before he reversed his car out of the church. He will finish his job first and talk with his friend later. Mark who knew Zion so well so much he knew that Zion doesn''t hold grudges for long, with him at least.


    But Mark didn''t notice that Zion had something that will help him in his quest to freedom.


    ***


    -A week later-


    "Mark, How you doing kid?," A raspy, old voice said.


    Mark turned his gazed to look at the old man who called him, he was Mr. John, the owner of the junkyard. The guy wore a worn, oil-stained work jacket adorned with patches and frayed edges, and a faded cap perched atop his silver hair. His eyes, though tired, held a glint of wisdom. He approached Mark with a warm smile of a grandfather.


    Mark smiled back. "I am doing just fine, Uncle John."


    Uncle John was one of the oldest member of the church who used to visit the orphanage often, that''s the reason most in the orphanage call him uncle John. He was one of the warmest people on town.


    John approached Mark and gave him a hard pat on his back before he continued, "What brings you to my Treasury?"


    "Well, a grumpy friend of mine have been lost for a week now and all I know is that he has been here," Mark answered with a sigh.


    He didn''t think that his friend would try to build a car just so he could leave. He thought Zion was just talking in anger, like all the time before. Like usual, he thought his friend would return, but to his surprise, Zion was absent the whole week, even for the sunday service.


    The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.So, today he try to locate him by asking around only to find that Zion was still in the junkyard. He came to sooth his friend and take him back home, with some tasty burgers, of course. Zion is the type of person you just need to feed to make then listen.


    "That kid again, huh," John exclaimed as he finally remembered, "Yes, that lad has been staying here for the past seven days. He hasn''t even been going out to eat much. When I asked him what he was doing even without eating, he answered that he was building a car to leave this boring town. So Mark, I know the kid from young, tell what happened?"


    Mark just sighed heavily before answering, "Well uncle, I kinda told him that he could leave the town if he were to have his own car. He took my car to leave and I had to... you know."


    "I understand," John gave Mark a pat on the back, "But you should let him go, Mark. Zion has grown up, he is not the crybaby friend you have to protect anymore."


    Mark just smiled at John as a response.


    "And I think you better let him go. I feel like he is almost to the point of breakdown. I have been hearing unholy laughter echoing through out the junkyard all night. I gives me goosebumps every time I remember it," John said a hint of fear visible on his face.


    The last seven night was trial of faith for the man. He felt like the devil was testing his faith. He even went to ask the pastor to prey for him.


    Mark''s smile cracked seeing the fear in John''s face, he didn''t know what to feel, "I will check on him," He assure John before he walked into the junkyard with the bag of burgers.


    "Okay."


    Mark felt the cold and murky atmosphere of junkyard even more after the seeing the fear on John''s face. His moments became unknowingly stiff as he traveled further in. Soon Mark started to hear the sound of metals colliding from the deepest parts of the junkyard. Following the sound of the noise, he arrived at an area where a car was with many parts were laying around.


    "ZION!" Mark called toward where the noise was coming from.


    The sound stopped immediately at his call, the junkyard became deadly still and silent, increasing the fear in Marks heart. Mark started to feel increasingly nervous due to the deadly silence.


    "Mark?" A voice came from the back of the car followed by a head, where the noise was coming from.


    Mark visibly relaxed as he saw his friend walk out with a welding mask above his face. Zion was wearing a greased white long sleeve t-shirt and torn black jeans. His eyes were red with black lines covering his eyelids. He looked like a person on deaths door.


    Seeing his friends state, Mark threw the bag of burgers to Zion. Zion caught the bag and immediately drooled at the smell of food, his stomach protested with a bestial growl.


    "Thanks, Mark," Zion thanked as he threw the dirty gloves and opened the bag to get a burger.


    "What were you doing?" Mark asked, a bit of frustration in his voice.


    "What do you mean?... God, thank you for the food. This is so good," Zion chomped down on his food.


    "What were you doing here? You didn''t even attend the sunday service and I haven''t seen you for the past week, if not for knowing that you were in the junkyard, I would have filed a missing person case," Mark was angered by Zions demeanor.


    "What? Its been a week...I didn''t know," Zion shrugged as he took another burger from the bag.


    At Zion''s answer, Mark just gave him an angry glare.


    "Okay okay, I know that I messed up. I forgot about time while I was building this baby," Zion tried to change the subject by showing his car.


    The car he had been building for the last few days with some help from his new ''tool''. The care had a polished metal shine as it wasn''t painted yet but the mechanics inside the car was done and upgraded with the help of Jury Rigg, Grey Matter, and Upgrade to optimizing.


    Those three were proven to be deadly combo in building the car which more like a war tank than a car at this point. The car only looked shabby on the out side as Zion wanted to be subtle with appearances. He didn''t want his car to scream, ''I AM HIGH TECH, COME STEAL ME"


    He didn''t want any of those crazy scientists to eyes his car and try to kidnap it. He would need to go though a pain of dismantling their organization if that were to happen.


    "Did you make this?" Mark looked inside the silver car.


    The car looked well made for something put together with junkyard part. The car looked like a MINI Cooper, but with its unfinished job it just looked like a metal construct. Even though the car''s outsides were unfinished, the insides were exquisite with leather seats with golden lines running though them, a hard black steering wheel.


    "Yep, first I wanted to make the all mighty ''Truck-kun'' but I don''t have enough omniversal power to bring him into existence," Zion clenched his hand in frustration.


    "What are you rambling about? And I still can''t believe you are even capable of building this car, no offense but you are not the best tool in the shed," Mark said as he turned to Zion.


    "Hey!" Zion kicked Mark lightly, "I only do thing when I want to and If I want to. If its something I wanted to, I give it my all."


    Mark just dusted his jeans before he looked into Zions eyes.


    "What? Zion asked chewing the burger.


    "You really are stubborn about leaving," Mark sighed.


    "Hmm, mmm *gulp* I need to go now more than ever, I have something to accomplish instead of some childish dream," Zion replied as he gulp the burger.


    Mark just raised his eyebrows at his words, because Zion was acting weird.


    "What happened, Zion?" Mark asked, his tone demanding truth.


    Zion looked at Mark, he knew that his friend is not going to be convinced by any bullshit he spouts.


    "Things have changed, Mark. I have been given a mission to complete now. To do it, I have to leave this town," Zion said as he looked seriously into Mark''s eyes.


    "What mission? From whom?" Mark thought that Zion got pulled into some shady business by bad people.


    "From a higher being, to cleanse the world of evil,"Zion replied with a mystery to it.


    "Zion," Mark called, his voice serious as it could get, "What happened? Who was it?" Mark was sure that Zion got deceived by some charlatan on the road.


    "Mark, I wasn''t deceived," Zion answered knowing what his friend thought, "I just received a gift from a senior from work."


    "You don''t work anywhere and you sleep at my house and eat my food," Mark folded his hand.


    "Well, you haven''t met him. You would love him if you had," Zion said, pulling his left sleeve, "He gave me this."


    Mark looked at the white watch with gold and black lines running though it. The watch looked toy watch that doesn''t show time. Mark just raised his eyebrow and gave a look at Zion that asked, ''What am I supposed to understand?"


    "Look at this,"


    Zion then pressed his fingers on the faceplate of the watch and circular hologram appeared above the watch, showing the faces of the different aliens in the Omnitrix. Zion then selected an OG alien in the watch. After selecting the alien, the faceplate slide up reveling the Omnitrix''s core which Zion lightly pushed.


    The watch sunk into his hands and a golden light flashed, turning him into a human torch. After a second the light died down, leaving a semi-armored Velociraptor. He had a black orb on his feet, a black tail with blue stripes, and bulky claws for his three fingers that can only open and close. A black cone-like helmet covered his head with a protective visor that slid down his face, which had green eyes, black lips, and stripes running under and in between his eyes. he wore a black bodysuit and turtleneck-like shirt.


    Mark stumbled back in shock and fear, he couldn''t comprehend what had happened to his friend. He could only see the alien Velociraptor.


    "Zion?" Mark called, his voice shaking.


    "Yep, its me," The helmet hummed with light before the visor rose back reveling the XlR8''s face.


    "WHat?... What? How?" Mark asked in shock.


    "Its the Omnitrix, a high tech device that change my DNA into another," Zion explained, "Now, I am just taking one of those forms in the watch. This alien is super fast."


    With that, the visor slid back and he vanished from the place leaving only an afterimage in his place. Then the next second a wind shock hit Mark causing him to stumble and when he turn to look, the car was fully painted with a black and gold scheme.


    "See," Zion said as he arrived next to the shocked Mark.


    "Wow!" Mark was just shocked. He didn''t know what to say about his friend turning into dinosaur and moving super fast.


    "I know, with this I could do things that was unimaginable before but I have also gained responsibilities," Zion said as he pressed the Omnitrix on his chest to change back.


    Seeing that Zion changed back, Mark visibly relaxed. Zion put his had around Mark''s shoulder and gave something to Mark. Mark looking at the thing in his hand looked at Zion with a questioning look.


    "Don''t say anything, It is non lethal. It fires electric pulse to knock out people," Zion explained about the gun on Mark''s hands.


    "But why would I need it?" Mark asked.


    "I will be leaving and if the info from my seniors is correct, the world is about to became a hellhole where monsters and god-like beings will battle it out. I will go beat them to the right path while you protect this town," Zion explained.


    Mark couldn''t process the info Zion casually said. A fight of gods and demons that will turn the world to hell, what kind of apocalyptic novel is that.


    "So, you are leaving to prevent those thing from happening?" Mark asked with a worried expression, still skeptical about it all.


    Seeing the worried expression on his friends face, Zion gave an assured smile to his friend.


    "It is dangerous, Zion, and I wouldn''t even believe you if you hadn''t turned into an alien dinosaur. But I know that I can''t stop you after you decide to do something but I just hope you don''t straight up die," Mark said as his lips curled up.


    "You little..." Zion tried to strangle Mark.


    Mark quickly got out of Zions grasp and looked the gun in his grasp. The gun looked like a futuristic gun.


    "So, how do you use this?"

 3 -Start of a New Journey

    In the sky''s of Metropolis.


    Kara stood on the skies of the Metropolis, her gaze taking in the flurry of activity ongoing in the city. The sun warmed her skin as she observed the humans going about their daily lives. She watched as parents guided their children, laughter filling the air and the shops bustling with people. She had spent years in that dark prison, hidden away from the world, and now she was finally free.


    "Beautiful, isn''t it?" Superman said as he flew next to her.


    "Yes, it is," Kara answered.


    Superman and Kara were now patrolling the metropolis to stop any crime from happening. This was arranged by Superman to have bonding time with his cousin, after all he didn''t have much time to talk with her as he was called to his superhero and reporter duties. So, Superman thought that maybe they could patrol and talk during it as he could do his job and Kara could learn about this world.


    "This is what we fight to protect, Kara. The peace and joy of these people. I have lived with them and I believe in the potential for good in each person. I know that your situation was different and you might resent them but my parents have showed me that they could be better."


    He then paused for a moment, as if collecting his thoughts. "But it''s more than that. I do what I do because I have the power to make a difference. When you have abilities beyond those of ordinary, you have a responsibility to use them for greater good. I want to inspire hope, to show people that there''s someone out there who cares and is willing to stand up for them."


    Superman''s eyes met Kara''s, and she could see the sincerity and determination in his gaze. "I know the world can be a harsh and unforgiving place, but I believe that even in the face of darkness, we can bring light. By protecting the innocent, by stopping those who would do harm, I hope to create a world where everyone has a chance to live without fear."


    Kara listened intently, taking in all his word. She also understood his reason to protect this world as she had done to hers. Even thought she hated the human of that planet, She still fought to save them, just like how Barry saved her from that dark prison.


    But she had questions, "But what about the risks? What about the sacrifices you''ve to make? Is it worth it? I know I have taken a mission to protect this earth, but my fight was with Zod, a Kryptonian trying to kill all the humans, to protect the entire planet but here it is the humans that are killing each other for their greed."


    Superman''s expression grew more serious. "I know, it''s not always easy, and there have been moments of doubt. But when I see the lives I''ve saved, the smiles on people''s faces, the sense of unity and community that forms when people come together in crisis, it reaffirms my belief that it''s worth every sacrifice. I may be an alien in many ways, but this world is my home, and it''s people are my family."


    He spread his arms wide as they soared through the sky, "I want to inspire others to be their best selves, to stand up for justice and compassion. I want to show that even in the face of adversity, we can make a difference."


    Kara nodded, showing her understanding. "I understand, Kal-El. I want to use my powers to protect."


    Superman''s smile was warm and proud. "I''m glad to here that, Kara. The world could always use more heroes. Just remember, it''s not the powers that defines us, but how we use them."


    With that they continued their patrol.


    Superman guided Kara through the city''s skyscrapers and streets, pointing out key landmarks and explaining the dynamics of their superhero work.


    "See the building down there?" Superman said, pointing to a towering structure. "It''s one of the city''s financial centers. Sometimes, I need to intervene when there are attempted robberies or security breaches. But it''s not just about stopping criminals; it''s about ensuring the safety of everyone in the area."


    Kara followed his gaze, her eyes narrowing as she focused on the building. "And how do you decide when to step in?"


    Superman''s expression turned serious. "It''s a delicate balance. I monitor police scanners and news reports to gauge the severity of the situation. If innocent lives are at risk or if law enforcement is overwhelmed, that''s when I intervene. But I also have to be cautious not to escalate situations unnecessarily."


    They continued their patrol, weaving between buildings and occasionally descending to street level. Superman pointed out moments of intervention, from saving a cat stuck in a tree to preventing a car accident. Each time, he emphasized the importance of assessing the situation and responding with precision.


    "It''s not just about stopping the immediate threat, Kara," Superman explained. "It''s about thinking ahead and preventing further harm. Sometimes that means using our powers creatively or finding nonviolent solutions."


    Kara nodded, absorbing his lessons and watching his actions closely. "And what about the people? How do you interact with them?"


    Superman''s expression softened, and he gestured toward the people on the sidewalks below. "Interacting with the people is a big part of this job. It''s about building trust and showing that I''m here to help. Sometimes a simple smile or a reassuring word can make a difference."


    As they flew over a park, they spotted a group of children playing. Superman''s face lit up as he descended gracefully, landing in front of them. Kara followed suit, her landing slightly less grace but still effective.


    "Hey there, little heroes in training," Superman greeted the children with a warm smile, "Having a good time?"


    The children''s eyes widened in awe as they looked up at him. One of them nodded eagerly. "Yeah! We''re playing superheroes!"


    Superman chuckled. "That''s great to hear. Remember, being a hero means looking out for one another and doing what''s right."


    Kara watched as Superman Knelt down to talk to the children, their faces lighting up with excitement. It was clear that he connected with them on a personal level, embodying the very ideals he spoke of.


    After a few minutes, Superman stood up and rejoined Kara. "You see, Kara, it''s about making a positive impact, not just when we''re stopping disasters, but also in the little moments. Each interaction shapes how people see us and what we represent."


    Stolen story; please report.


    As the day turned to dusk, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the city. Superman turned to Kara with a soft smile. "Kara, Do you know why I decided to teach you? To share my knowledge and experience?"


    Kara looked at Superman, a hint of confusion visible on her face. "Is it not for me to learn about the ins and outs of the job? To help you without dragging you down?"


    Superman''s smiled, "Yes and No, I wanted you to understand the importance of this job. To fully know what you are taking on, " His gaze softened, "When I first arrived on Earth, I was fortunate enough to have the guidance of my parents, the Kent''s. They taught me about humanity''s capacity for good, about the importance of using my powers responsibly. I want to offer you the same guidance and support that I received."


    Superman''s voice grew more passionate. "But it''s not just about passing down knowledge. It''s about fostering a sense of unity and partnership. The world is a big place, and facing its challenges alone can be overwhelming. By working together, by sharing our strength''s and learning from each other''s experiences, we can create stronger, safer world."


    Kara nodded, understanding the weight of his words. "You want to empower me to make a positive impact."


    "Exactly," Superman affirmed. "And it''s not just about stopping villains or saving the day. It''s about inspiring other to take action, to stand up for justice, and to contribute to a better world in their own ways. The more heroes there are, the brighter the beacon of becomes."


    He turned his gaze to the city below, a sense of purpose radiating from him. "And by teaching you, I am passing on that legacy of hope to you. I want you to feel prepared and capable, knowing that you have the skills and heart to face whatever challenges comes your way."


    Kara felt a mixture of gratitude and determination welling up with in her. "Thank you, Kal-El."


    Superman''s smile was warm and reassuring. "Remember, Kara, you''re not alone in this journey. Just like I had mentors and friends who supported me, you''ll have people who believe in you and stand by your side."


    As they continued to glide through the city''s evening sky, side by side, Kara felt a renewed sense of purpose. She has been given an incredible opportunity, not just a hope but to become a beacon of hope herself.


    ***


    "Did you pack everything?"


    "I did."


    "Cloths?"


    "I did."


    "Tooth brush?"


    "I did."


    "Your underwear?"


    "Dude! Stop acting like a Mama chicken! I am 21 and I know how to take care of myself. I have already packed all the necessary stuff and I can just buy them or come back, if I forgot something."


    "Okay, Okay," Mark moved back with his hand in air.


    Zion was sitting on the driver''s seat of his new car. The MINI Cooper looking car had a shiny black coat with golden lines connecting to from a cross on the hood. The car looked normal but attracted attention.


    "But again, how did you get a license in a week?" Mark asked.


    Zion grinned slightly at the question. "Its easy. I just showed them how good I was and they gave me the license."


    "Remind me, not to ask you again?" Mark just shook his head.


    Zion looked at his friend and smiled softly. "Don''t worry, I will be all right, Mike. You know I am stronger then before and I will visit from time to time."


    Mark sighed. "Ahh, whatever."


    "Okay, Now let me go. We have been having this conversation on repeat for the last hour." Zion started with a press on a button and the engine roared to life.


    "Are you not going to speak to me before you go?" An elderly voice asked.


    Zion and Mark turned to the voice. Zion lowered his head to hide while Mark welcome the person. "Pastor," Mark called.


    "God bless you, my child. And Zion, where are you running away without telling me? If Mark didn''t inform, I wouldn''t have known," The pastor said in a chiding tone.


    Zion turned to the pastor with a wry smile, and he looked at his close friend with a betrayed look. Mark just shrugged it off. He then turned and focused on the pastor, waiting for his trial.


    "Now, Zion, are you going to explain yourself?" The pastor asked with a stern tone as he approached the car.


    "I... I" Zion didn''t know how to explain himself.


    "And where are your manners? Are you going to talk to me while sitting inside your car?" The pastor asked, his gaze intensifying.


    Zion quickly got out of the car and stood with his face down before the pastor. He was like a child in front of his stern father, which was true as the pastor was a father to Zion who grew up in the orphanage. He was the one who managed the orphanage and the chapel. The pastor just looked at Zion, who just stood silently. "Are you not going to answer my question?"


    Zion didn''t lift his head. "I... I didn''t know what to say."


    Zion then quietly waited for the chiding from the pastor for his unreasonable answer. But what he got was a hand on his shoulder.


    "Zion, I know that it hurts your to leave your home and say a goodbye even thought it is only temporary," The pastor said, his tone warm.


    Zion lifted his head and saw the smile on the pastor''s face.


    "Every father understands their child, more than they let on. I know how kind you are and how much you love those around you. But you don''t want to share your pain with others, that''s why you only have one friend after all these years."


    Zion felt the subtle jab from the pastor.


    The pastor smiled. "But you can''t leave without saying your goodbyes to your father."


    "I... understand."


    "Okay, now get lost."


    "Uuh?" Zion asked in confusion.


    The pastor looked at the confused Zion, with a stern look. Mark was dying trying to hold back his laughter.


    "What''s with that stupid look? Do you want to keep relaying on your friend and be idle for the rest of your life? Now that you decided to leave, get lost before you change your mind?" The pastor chided.


    Zion lowered his head while scratching his head and tried to save himself. "I did work, pastor."


    "Ohh," The pastor''s gaze intensified. "Everyone in Heavenfield know how you laze around at your work and it is Mark who does your work."


    Zion head sunk into his body. He knew it was true, he normally laze around at work.


    "Pastor, lets send him before he embarrass himself more," Mark said intervening.


    But Zion didn''t feel grateful as he could feel that his friend was using this change to get at him and was enjoying this a bit too much.


    The pastor turned to Mike. "Don''t try to cover for him, Mark. It is your kindness that spoiled this brat."


    "Pastor, please stop scolding him. If you continue, Zion might lose the enthusiasm to leave," Mark intervened.


    The pastor looked at Mark and then at Zion. "Okay, you can leave."


    With the permission received, Zion slowly got into his car and locked the door. He turned and gave Mark a final look that could kill a person. He then turn to the pastor. "I will be leaving now... Dad."


    With those words, he smashed the accelerated and blitz off with a smoke trail.


    "What do you know? He finally said it," Mark said as he stood next to the pastor.


    "Hmm mmm," The pastor just hummed.


    Mark looked at the pastor and didn''t miss the small smile on his lips. Zion all for the years he was adopted by the pastor never called him Dad or anything for that matter, he just crashed in Mark''s house all the time.


    "He will be okay, Pastor," Mark turned and left.


    The pastor stood there for a minute, looking at the shrinking shadow of the car. He just smiled warmly. "May god be with you, My son."


    ***


    Zion looked at the review mirror.


    He could see the figures of his friend and pastor turn into a dot. His gaze lingered on mirror for a moment before he turned to the road. He knew that he had to leave and protect this godforsaken planet.


    He looked at the Omnitrix on his hand, which just looked like a normal stylized watch. The watch was his nuclear deterrence, one of the most powerful device that literally had a DNA of a Celestial, Celestialsapien.


    That transformation was just too overpowered that Ben locked it up and only used it when it was absolutely necessary. But Zion had no thought of using that alien to create a peaceful world. He will do it with his own hand, it the most efficient way without making the heroes of this world too weak.


    "Tennyson, huh. I can''t believe that I have the same surname. Hmm, then is the pastor some intergalactic police officer. No way, right?" Zion mumbled to himself, trailing off the subject. But he hit himself on the head and brought his attention back to the road.


    "Time for the adventure to begin."


    Zion grinned as he increased the speed of his ''car''.

 4 - Preparations for the Future

    ~ I am just a human after all ~


    ~ I am just a human after all ~


    ~ Don''t put your blame on me ~


    ~ Don''t put your blame on me ~


    Zion hummed as he opened the door to his new house. He had found a place to rent within the neighborhood known as Central Haven. The streets were a maze of brownstone houses, each with a story to tell. Ivy-clad facades and wrought-iron fences gave the area a timeless, almost magical ambiance.


    As he pushed open the creaky wooden door, the scent of fresh paint and the warmth of a cozy interior enveloped him. The small room, illuminated by the soft glow of the single window, was just enough to meet Zion''s needs. A modest bed sat against one wall, covered in simple linens. A desk occupied another corner, the perfect spot for his laptop and a stack of books.


    He moved closer to the window, gazing out at the cityscape beyond. Keystone City was known for its towering skyscrapers and modern infrastructure, but also retained pockets of historical significance. The distant hum of traffic and the occasional flash of red and yellow lightning in the sky reminded him that Keystone was no ordinary place. It was the city of speedsters, where time itself seemed to race, in contrast to Central Haven, which offered a serene retreat.


    Zion unpacked his belongings, arranging them thoughtfully within the compact space. A bulky laptop that looked patched up, probably due to the multiple times it was repaired, a fountain pen, and a diary were placed on the desk, with his clothes kept in a suitcase pushed under the bed. Zion didn''t even bother cleaning, as the room looked well-kept. He was just lazy.


    ***


    Zion looked at his room one more time to check if everything was in place before he sat at his desk, opening his laptop. The screen lit up for a moment, and many lines of code ran through before the computer revealed its desktop. The screen didn''t have anything except for a solitary icon of the command prompt.


    Zion clicked it to open and began typing code. The screen froze for a minute before it displayed numerous news articles from various newspapers and reports.


    "The red streak strikes again. Rescuing people from a burning building, stopping robbers and criminals before they know it. All people saw was a red streak and defeated criminals."


    "It seems the metropolis'' man in blue has another joining him. A woman with a similar costume to Superman, flying around Metropolis and stopping crimes."


    "The Wayne Industries stock prices have increased yet again. After the return of billionaire Bruce Wayne, Wayne Industries has made more profits than ever, and it continues to grow to this day."


    "A bat symbol lit up the skies of Gotham yesterday. The police seem to have asked for help from Gotham''s vigilante."


    "A masked vigilante terrorizes Star City. Many criminals have been left with broken bones and, in some cases, dead."


    "The number of these masked vigilantes and vigilantism has increased across the country. Police haven''t found anything about these masked individuals. The government has announced plans to intensify their investigations."


    "Seems like they are still scattered. They are not together, not strong enough to face the dangers of the galaxies," Zion rubbed his chin in contemplation. "How should I accelerate their growth? I don''t really want to be a goody-two-shoes and defeat all their villains, as it would just hinder their development. But that doesn''t mean I can''t deal with characters that are just bothersome, like The Joker. I could eliminate him as he is just a waste of space and not really helpful in developing Batman''s character."


    While lost in thought, Zion looked out the window. Dusk had arrived, and the red sky loomed over the neon-lit city. His eyes lost focus for a moment. His right hand moved to the diary next to the laptop. The silver tip of the fountain pen touched the white paper, staining it with its ink. Zion''s hand moved in a smooth motion, drafting plans for the future and the things that would help him strengthen the Justice League so they wouldn''t be vulnerable to threats.


    [ The paper read:


    - Oan Guardians, ancient beings who oversee the Green Lantern Corp. Possessors of immense knowledge. Creators of the Lantern Rings. Abilities include rewriting reality and manipulating time.


    "Hmm, I wonder if I will be able to create the Lantern Rings if I transform into one of them," Zion mused. "If I could, I could create an army of Lanterns to fight for my cause. But for now, it is just a thought to ponder about."


    - The Reach, one of the oldest races in the universe. An advanced civilization that surpasses Earth''s by many millennia. A race of world conquerors. Creators of the Scarabs, a world-ending machine. In a peace treaty with Green Lanterns.


    Zion looked at his left hand, where the Omnitrix resided. Omnitrix was a level 20 tech. But The Reach was only on Level 14, where their armor can integrate into their host on a cellular level. They are still far from even creating something like a broken version of Nemetrix.


    "But they could produce a perfect clone. If they learn about the Omnitrix," Zion shivered slightly, "I don''t want to deal with all the invasion from all the greedy races of the universe. That would be a pain. It would be simple to just erase them from existence with Alien X than fight them all the time. But a Celestialsapien would attract far more trouble than all the races hunting me down."


    Zion shook his head to rid himself of bad thoughts; he didn''t want Murphy to act.


    "Now that I think about cloning... Superboy has not been born yet. I should not let Luther learn about the Omnitrix. If he learns, he will try to get it at all costs, which might cause some adverse effects than intended. And he is a bit of a brainiac for me to deal with. Superman can have his dance with his bald friend."


    - The New Gods, Cosmic entities with immense strength, longevity, cosmic awareness, and advanced technology. They possess the Mother Boxes and Father Box, supercomputers storing immeasurable data that can use boom tubes. ]


    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.These three races of the universe were well-versed in highly advanced tech and possessors of potent DNA. The New Gods'' and Oan Guardians'' DNA would make a fine addition to the Omnitrix, while the research data from The Reach would help me create more powerful tech, especially the Scarab armor. I don''t want to go through the hassle of finding the Scarab, especially since Blue Beetle hasn''t even been born yet.


    Zion spun the pen in his hands as he wrestled with the idea of leaving the planet to find these three races to obtain their tech. However, the problem was, he didn''t have a spaceship. It would take an astronomical amount of time and resources to build one from scratch. A ship with a strong enough frame to withstand constant changes in gravitational pull, a functional navigation system to cross galaxies, supplies to last until I reach another suitable planet, and the materials needed to build one. And don''t even start with a warp engine!


    "I can''t do this alone; I should introduce myself to the Heroes before I leave. I need to at least stay until the formation of the League. I can get help from Batman and Cyborg to build the spaceship and acquire the warp-drive from Superman''s ship," Zion confirmed his plan, at least for the time being.


    "A plan is never complete. A solid plan is a flexible one. A man should always adapt to the situations."


    ***


    "Now, what should I do in the meantime?" Zion pondered. He had only $2000 left after covering all his expenses and rent for the room, which was cheap. So, now that he was in the city, he needed to find a stable job to keep himself fed.


    "Should I steal from or ask Batman for some money? I am pretty sure I could convince him with an advanced armor that will increase the efficiency of his vigilantism. But I don''t want to deal with his paranoia. He would create contingency upon contingency to take me down, and I don''t want him on my back, watching my every move.


    No Bats, then.


    Maybe I should just get some money by hacking into Luther''s bank account. That would be effective. But I don''t like dealing with him, even though he would never find out who stole it. With Brainstorm''s skills, it would be as easy as breathing air.


    How about Arrow? I could become his guy in the chair and earn money. But he is going through his growth phase. I don''t want to disturb him by revealing I know his identity.


    Should I become a reporter? I mean, I could do it, but writing articles will be a hassle, and it is already being used by many to hide their identity.


    Ahh, maybe I should become a crazy driver like in the movies. The fastest taxi to take you to heaven and back. I kinda like the sound of that. Like Jackie Chan from ''The Tuxedo''! It might actually work, with my car already having a 1000 horsepower engine.


    OK! Job decided. Now, on to the second objective. What DNA could I collect from Earth before leaving? Diana''s demigod DNA might be difficult to obtain, and I don''t like the fake gods. Martian Manhunter is not on Earth yet, and Thanagarians are not that powerful.


    So, my first choice is the strongest hero on Earth. The Last Son of Krypton."


    Zion finally decided what to do after meticulous calculations. {The conversation above only containe the important part of Zion''s inner monologue as 75% was removed due to his ramblings}


    "Then let''s get to Metropolis and collect some juicy Kryptonian DNA. With it, I could gain some serious firepower without exposing myself by transforming into something that doesn''t exist in this universe."


    Zion closed the laptop and the diary. Carrying both in his hand, he quickly left the room. His car was waiting for him under the glowing moonlight in the parking lot. Zion placed both objects on the passenger seat and started the car.


    "To Metropolis!"


    ***


    - In the depths of the Batcave -


    Batman sat before an array of screens, his gloved fingers swiftly navigating through databases and surveillance feeds. He had just stumbled upon something intriguing yet dangerous - a sighting of another flying superhuman in Metropolis. However, he didn''t have enough information to confirm her identity or intentions. All he knew was that she was with Metropolis'' Superman.


    Alfred''s voice crackled through the intercom. "Sir, it seems you''ve come across something unusual."


    Batman''s eyes remained fixed on the screen as he responded. "Yes, Alfred. There is a report that another flying superhuman was with Superman. The sighting was just yesterday when they both stopped crimes. I am using facial recognition, tracing for any extraterrestrial impact in the past few days or a mass destruction of any Metahuman experiment facility, but I don''t have a possible ID or connections yet."


    Alfred, being the best butler he was, replied, "Shall I initiate a more thorough investigation, Master Wayne?"


    "Yes, Alfred. I want to know who she is, what her capabilities are, and if she will be a threat that needs to be put down," Batman''s cold voice echoed through the comms.


    "Very well, sir. I''ll begin digging deeper into the Metropolis sightings and try to ascertain her identity discreetly."


    Batman knew that with Alfred''s expertise and resources, he could count on a comprehensive investigation. He returned his focus to the screen, where there was a poor image of Superman and Kara interacting with a kid. His eyes narrowed, a slight conflict in his mind.


    He knew his limits as a human, and with the rise of many superpowered villains, he would eventually face his defeat. But the Dark Knight was not one to back down from challenges. With his meticulous preparations and high intellect, he could even take down the strongest of foes.


    Batman got up from his contemplation and walked to the Batmobile. It was time for his patrol. He needed to keep the streets of Gotham safe.

 5 - Kara saves the day

    The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the bustling city below.


    Kara Zor-El, yet to be dubbed as Supergirl, floated above the busy city, her senses expanded, listening for any help needed. Her whole body bathing in Sol''s warmth, increasing her already strong physique. Today, she was on petrol alone, without Clark, without Superman. He had trusted her to protect the city for today.


    Down below, a busy intersection bustled with cars, pedestrians, and the usual chaos of urban life. Drivers were impatiently honked their horns, and the crosswalks were filled with people rushing to their destinations.


    In the midst of this chaotic scene, a sudden screech of tires and a cacophony of alarmed shouts signaled a danger. attracting Kara''s attention. A car rushed thought the street, its driver struggling to regain control.


    The women behind the wheel, panic etched across her face, slammed on the brakes, but the car didn''t respond. Its tires screeched against the pavement as it continued to hurtle forward, seemingly out of control. Pedestrians scattered, and nearby drivers braced for impact.


    "Help! Somebody, please help!" The panicked driver screamed.


    Seeing that her help was needed, Kara moved with lightning speed, creating a sonic boom as she descended. She beelined toward the car''s side, her hand firmly gripping the front bumper of the car. She strained against its momentum, her boots digging furrows into the asphalt.


    With her incredible strength, Kara slowly brought the reeling vehicle to a halt. The wheels finally ceased their frantic spinning, and the women inside the car, trembling with fear, could hardly believe her her eyes.


    She noticed the ''S'' on the person who saved her. "Thank you, Super-" but she stopped as she noticed that it was not Superman but a young girl wearing dress similar to superman.


    Passersby had gathered, their faces filled with awe and relief. The crisis had been averted, thanks to their new hero. They didn''t know who she was but they could clearly see that she wore the same costume as superman, so she has to be a hero.


    Snapping out of her stupor, the women staggered out of the car. "Thank you," She said, her face filled with gratitude.


    But Kara wasn''t focused on her.


    ***


    -Few minutes into the past-


    In the shadowy ally across the street, a group of masked criminals, armed with high-tech weapons and determination, gathered around a black van. Their leader, a ruthless figure known as "The Masked Marauder," outlined their plan with a cold, calculated precision.


    "Remember, we have one shot at this. Once we''re inside, it is all about speed and intimidation. We''ll be in and out before anyone can notice us."


    The gang nodded in agreement as they geared up with their newly purchased high-tech weaponry to launch their audacious heist. Inside the bank, oblivious to the impending threat, costumers queued at the counters, and bank employees went about their daily tasks.


    Suddenly, the bank''s entrance exploded in a shower of glasses and debris. The gang stormed in, guns blazing, and the bank erupted into chaos.


    "Everybody down! This is a robbery! Nobody move, and nobody gets hurt!"


    Panic spread through the bank as some dove to take cover while some dropped to the ground, trembling. The robbers moved with calculated precision, securing control of the bank and ensuring that no one dared to intervene. Bank guards, armed with only courage and determination, found themselves out matched and outgunned.


    The hostages, a mix of bank employees and customers, lay prone on the polished floor, their hearts racing with fear. The Marauder''s gang members fanned out, their weapons at the ready while placing explosives around the hostages.


    A old women griped the shaking hands of a young girl, and assured, "Stay strong, we''ll get through this. We have superman to save us."


    The girl nodded in reply.


    With the bank''s interior plunged into chaos and the robbers now in control, the audacious heist had begun, leaving the fate of the bank and its occupants hanging on balance.


    ***


    Kara took flight without a word.


    Her speed and action shocking the people, but Kara wasn''t superman to wait and explain. Kara only moved a block away from the accident. She hovered above the Metropolis National Bank which was in turmoil.


    Her X-ray vision showed her what was happening inside the bank and her super hearing allowing her to hear everything.


    "Everyone down on the ground! This is a robbery!"


    "Hurry it up, or things will get messy!"


    "Don''t think of acting heroes! Stay still if your don''t want to die!"


    She saw the hostages laying on the marble floor, trembling with fear. The robbers fanned out around the hostages, placing what looked to be explosives around the hostages. One of the robber was forcing a bank employee to open the vault, while a man who looked like the leader gave orders to the robbers. He was wearing red suit and a hat, his face covered by black mask.


    Kara seeing that she would need to intervene, descended from the sky like a comet.


    BOOM!!!


    ***


    BOOM!!!


    As the tension inside the bank reached its peak, a sudden crash shattered the panicked silence. Dust and debris rained down, creating the cloud of dust that enveloped the startled robbers.


    The hostages panicked even more as the cloud also obscured vision. "What?... What''s hap-pening?" asked someone, his words stuttering.


    The sound of bank''s ceiling burst open alerted the robbers of the unwanted presence. The Masked Marauder turned to confront the hero that arrived but the dust cloud obscured his vision. But he go his answer soon enough as two red glowing eyes showed themselves.


    The Robbers immediately pointed their weapons at the glowing eyes, clearly nervous due to the person that arrived. The only relatively calm one was the Masked Marauder. He lifted his hands, showing the detonator in his death grip, his thumb hovering over the button that could unleash destruction.


    Masked Marauder smile menacingly as he knew that superman would never put civilians lives in danger. "Back off, Superman, or this whole place goes up in smoke!"


    If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.Marauders voice echoed off the Bank''s silent interior, but the response he wanted never came. All he got was the read eyes staring at him, seemingly prying at his soul.


    The bank''s interior was filled with tense anticipation as the standoff continued. Kara''s keen eyes scanned the room, and she noticed the fear etched on the faces of the hostages, their lives hanging in the hands of this robber.


    But when Kara decided to not follow with aggression, wind blew through the broken broken entrance, clearing the dust that obscured their vision. With the dust cleared, the robbers clearly say who it was they were facing.


    "You... You are not superman," Masked Marauder was confused by this revelation, so were his gang.


    That slight opening was the biggest mistake the Masked Marauder made that day as Kara''s heat vision cut through his hand, separating his wrist from his arm. Then with a swift motion of her eyes, she destroyed the detonator.


    A gasp of shock spread through the Bank as Masker Marauder looked at his severed hand, his face twisting with agony and anger.


    "What are you waiting for?!!! Kill her!!!" He roared like a wounded beast.


    The robbers snapping out of their shock, pulled the trigger. The blasted glowed with power as they shot energy blast at Kara, but she moved with lightning speed, dodging the projectiles effortlessly.


    "Surrender, or I won''t show mercy," Kara warned her eyes glowing.


    The robbers didn''t head her warning, knowing that they were already at the deep end. Kara looked at the robbers shooting frantically at her, some of the energy bolts nearly grazing the hostages. Seeing that the situation couldn''t continue, Kara lunged forward, her speed on full display as she disarmed the bank robbers one by one. She moved so quickly that they barely had time to react. With each swift motion, she destroyed their weapons and broke their bones.


    As the last of criminals found themselves immobilized, the bank''s employees and customers looked on with awe and relief, but their was a hint of fear in their eyes as they saw the crushed arms of the robbers.


    Kara scanned them all for any injuries, not noticing their fears.


    "They won''t harm you anymore," Kara tried to comfort them.


    But she was clearly not the best in it yet. Kara then rounded up the robbers fro the police. Masked Marauder had his left leg broken to keep him from running. With all of them in place, clearly not tied up due to their broken state, Kara waited until the authorities to arrived before flying off to her patrol.


    ***


    "Why did I even get all excited to come to Metropolis?"


    Zion groaned as he tried to keep his eyes open. He was slouched on a table, distressfully drinking coffee to jump start his brain.


    Zion was facing the backlash of acting without thinking. He had rushed to Metropolis without clearly thinking of the time he would arrive at the city, in the middle of the night. Even the "City of Tomorrow" was asleep when he strode in, causing him to wait the whole night in his car for the sun to shine.


    Without enough sleep through out night, Zion was feeling groggy, so, he moved into the coffee shop as its first costumer and stayed their until he felt like moving again. He was trying to think of ways to get close to superman, enough for him to scan his DNA, yet his mind keeps wandering to other subject that were not relevant at all.


    He had created a clear blueprint to make a walking microwave which is used as a walking microwave, for microwaving food anywhere and anytime. And this was just one of his ideas.


    "What should I do to meet Superman?" Zion wondered out loud. ''I can''t clearly catch the guy flying around or should I blow shit up to attract his attention. I am pretty sure he would not roast me with his heat vision the moment he sees me. He would probably talk to me first.''


    "Excuse me, you want to meet Superman?" A curious feminine voice asked.


    Startled, Zion turned to the voice, noticing beautiful women standing behind him. She had her black hair tied in a pony tail, her brown eyes looking at him curiously. She was wearing a white shirt with a back jeans, her dress complementing slender physique.


    Zion met her gaze with a bit of surprise, he knew who it was. "Well, I just wanted to meet the big guy, you know, The ''Superman''. I wanted to ask why he does what he does, maybe have a full on conversation on how to improve the world for the better."


    The women smiled at his answer. "That''s a noble aspiration. Superman''s a remarkable figure. If you are looking to connect with him, you might want to consider reaching out through the Daily Planet. I could help you with that."


    Zion showed a shocked expression. "That would be incredible! Thank you, Ms. Lane."


    ''It was incredibly stupid of me!'' Zion facepalmed in his mind, ''I could have just met him at Daily planet. That would have saved so much of my time.''


    Lois Lane smiled at Zion''s shocked expression. She had entered the coffee shop to grab her usual drink before going to her office. As she neared the counter to place her order, she couldn''t help but overhear Zion mumbling about meeting superman. Curious as she was, she decided to talk to this young man.


    "You are welcome Let''s work together to make it happen," Lois replied.


    Zion yawned as he mumbled. "Yeah, That''s sound...cool."


    Lois noticed Zions lack of energy. "Are you feeling alright there? You seem a bit tired."


    "Yeah, just a bit tired, you know? long night. I didn''t plan my time for coming to Metropolis, casing me to get here in the dead of the night," Zion explained as he rubbed his eyes.


    Lois thought that Zion was too enthusiastic about meeting superman and arrived too early. "Well, if you really need a pick-me-up, a good cup of coffee would do wonders."


    Zion gave a appreciative nod. "I already had two of those, Ms. Lane. I just need time to reboot."


    Lois smiled at his answer. "Take care of yourself, and don''t hesitate to reach out if you want to meet Superman. He''s a great guy to talk to."


    "I will, Ms. Lane. I will," Zion gave her a warm smiled.

 6 - Meeting Superman

    Zion exchanged contact with Lois Lane just before she left, leaving her with a playful remark "Call me, if you want a driver fast enough to take you to heaven and back."


    Lois responded with a smile, saying that she will.


    Zion was still in the coffee shop.


    He had now found his way to meet superman, without causing a ruckus to attract his attention, which is easy as it can get. He could have simply turned into one of the million alien and strolled the street. It would attract enough attention to bring the whole of military to his door step(metaphorical).


    He just didn''t want to attract too much attention to him, especially with Luther keeping an eye on Superman. That man is one thing Zion didn''t want to deal with. Not because he could not defeat him, he could turn Waybig and stump him to death. But because he is useful, Luther only need to adjust his perspective on things and he will be fine.


    So, in total he just didn''t want Luther to go out without reaching his potential. That boldy is need for the growth of this world.


    With that Zion stood up, his brain back to full capacity and ready to rumble. Just kidding, what rumbled was not his brain but his stomach. It was growling like a hungry beast. Zion stopped a random guy as he exited the coffee shop and asked.


    "Hey, mate, know where I can grab a bite to eat in this fine city of Metropolis?" Zion asked with a british accent.


    The man provided directions, guiding him to Bibbo''s diner.


    "Thanks, mate."


    Zion then quickly walked to his car, the MINI Cooper roaring to life. He made a drifty U-turn, earning a bunch of insults and honks. The car didn''t stop nor did slow down. The car weaved between cars at lightning speed, not reducing its speed for a moment.


    Within a minute, Zion was before Bibbo''s Diner.


    As Zion walked into Bibbo''s Diner, he was greeted by the nostalgic aroma of sizzling burgers. The diner had a classic, retro feel with read leather booths, chrome accents, and checkerboard floor tiles. The walls were adorned with vintage posters and framed newspaper clippings highlighting Metropolis'' Hero, Superman.


    The jukebox played old rock ''n'' roll tunes in the corner, blending with the friendly chatters of the diner. The waitstaff, dressed in diner uniforms, hustled back and forth, balancing trays of delicious food.


    Zion took a seat at the counter, which had a view of the open kitchen where cooks flipped burgers on a griddle. The menu featured some of the most delicious array of options, from towering double cheeseburgers to stacks of pancakes drizzled with syrup.


    Zion couldn''t help but smile. "Hey there, ma''am. I''ll have a classic cheeseburger, two spicy shawarma, extra crispy fries, and a chocolate milkshake, please"


    "Sure thing, hon, You got it! Anything else for you?" The waitress asked with a warm smile.


    "Actually, how about you pack me your famous apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? I am meeting a friend," Zion replied as he glanced at the menu.


    Waitress gave him a nod. "Good choices! One cheeseburger, two spicy shawarma, extra crispy fries, and a chocolate milkshake coming right up. I will pack the pie for you. Enjoy the meal!


    ...


    Zion enjoyed his meal, paid his bills and then left with smile tugging his lips, carrying the packed pie with him. He knew it was time to meet with superman and he already have an appointment with Lois Lane.


    Zion got into his car, placed the pie carefully on the back seat, and strapped his seatbelt. That was slowest thing he did until he got out of the car. The small car was a speeding turbo from the minute he pressed the accelerator.


    Arriving before the Daily planet building, Zion parked the car perfectly with a drift, leaving tire marks on the road. He got out in a smooth motion like in those racing movies and picked up the apple pie that was unfortunate to sit in his back seat but it managed to keep its integrity.


    Zion walked into the building with confident strides, carrying the pie in his hand. Entering the building, Zion was hit by the electric atmosphere of a newsroom in full swing. Reporters rushed about, phones rung incessantly, and the clatter of typewriters and computer keyboards filled the air. It was a symphony of organized chaos that only added to his excitement.


    He approached the reception desk where a friendly, bespectacled receptionist was engaged in a conversation with a young reporter.


    Zion intervened in their conversation, politely. "Excuse me, I''m here to see Lois Lane. Can you please let her know I''ve arrived?"


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    The receptionist, momentarily startled by Zion''s request, stopped speaking with the young reporter and looked at him. She saw his young appearance and then smiled warmly at the young reporter.


    "Oh, Jimmy, here''s someone to see lois."


    Jimmy Olsen turned toward Zion with a cheerful grin. "Hey there, I''m Jimmy Olsen, the guy who''s always up for an adventure. Lois is just over there by the editor''s desk."


    Zion extended his hand with a friendly nod. "Nice to meet you, Jimmy. I am Zion, the fastest taxi driver on this planet. Thanks for the heads-up."


    Jimmy shook Zion''s hand enthusiastically, feeling he found a kinder spirit. "No problem at all, Zion! Lois is right over there, brewing up a story as always. Enjoy your chat!"


    Zion gave Jimmy an appreciative nod before he followed Jimmy''s directions. Arriving before Lois'' desk, he saw her immersed in her work by the editor''s desk. With a respectful and friendly demeanor, he cleared his throat to get her attention.


    Lois looked up from her work, a hint of surprise visible in her eyes as she looked at Zion. "Zion! I didn''t think that you would come so soon. Please, take the seat. Meeting Superman! Now that''s the story worth sharing, don''t you think?."


    "Yes, it is," Zion said with a smile, "I appreciate your willingness to help me, Ms. Lane. I came to Metropolis to meet him, and I couldn''t wait for a better day to talk to him."


    Lois'' demeanor turned professional and determined. "Of course, Zion. If you''re looking to meet superman, it''s important to approach it in the right way. He''s a busy man, but I can certainly assist in making the connection. So, what''s your own goal in meet him?"


    Zion smile turned mysterious. "Ms. Lane, I won''t lie to you. I come from a small town called Heavenfield. It is a close community with nothing exciting happening, at all. I came to city expecting an adventure, and I found it. Superman''s battle with an alien from space to save Metropolis, felt like it was straight of a comic."


    Zion paused, observing Lois'' expression.


    "Superman saved Metropolis. But I am no superman, I am guy from a small town. So, I think you understand how it feels when you looked to the sky and feel that you are nothing but a dust in the grand scheme of things."


    Lois had contemplative look as she listened to Zion, Her brain connecting the dot in the conversation to find his reason.


    "You want to know if your could make a difference in this world. You want to ask him, if you could really make a difference. Even without strength to lift building or flying at super speed."


    "Yes, Ms. Lane," Zion kept his slight smile.


    Lois nodded in understanding. After all, when you see a man lift building that could crush you, stop bullets with his bare skin, move father than a speeding bullet and fly to space, you tend to feel dejected, disheartened, feeling too small to make a change.


    "I understand your problem and I am sure many are dealing with the same things, but in many different ways. I believe your sincerity will resonate with him. I''ll see what I can do to arrange a meeting or interview. Just remember, Superman''s schedule can be unpredictable, but we''ll do our best."


    "No need to book a schedule, Ms. Lane. We can meet him today, here in Daily planet," Zion said as he got up.


    "What?" Lois got up in shock.


    Zion just pointed up before he began walking.


    ***


    Superman stood before Kara, his eyes filled with a mix of anger and concern as he confronted her about her recent actions during the bank robbery. The bank alarm still blared in the background, echoing the chose that had just unfolded.


    "Kara," Superman''s voice was stern, his cape rustling with his intensity, "I can''t believe what I just saw. I let you do the patrol today, alone, because I thought you were ready or at least you were capable to do so. Cutting off the leader''s hand and breaking the henchman''s bones? That''s not how we operate!"


    "You didn''t see the fear in the eyes of the hostages'' eyes, Clark! They didn''t even know if they will live to see a new day!" Kara clenched her fists, her blue eyes locking onto his with determination. "They were going to hurt those people, Clark. What would you have done?"


    Superman''s jaw tightened, struggling to find the right words to convey the gravity of the situation. "There''s always a better way, Kara. We can''t stoop to their level. We have to find a balance between protecting and inspiring hope. If we act like those that we put behind bars, what difference would we make. People will only be fearful of us."


    Kara''s anger began to wane, replaced by a sense of guilt and uncertainty. She knew her actions had consequences, and her cousin''s words weighted heavily on her. "I just wanted to... save them. The fear in their eyes, it was just like mine when I was imprisoned. I had to stop them."


    Superman''s expression softened, realizing the internal struggle Kara was going through. He placed a hand on her shoulder, his voice gentler now. "I know, Kara. We both want to make a difference, but we can''t lose sight of what makes us heroes. We have to be better."


    Kara nodded. She knew that she had to learn from this incident, to find a way to balance her desire to protect with the responsibility that came with her powers. With a heavy heart, she said, "I''ll do better, Clark."


    Superman gave her a reassuring smile, hoping that this argument had been a turning point for his cousin. "It''s okay, Kara. I just want you to learn from this incident."


    "Now, It seems like I am needed. We will talk about this at home," Superman said as he flew away.


    ***


    _Just one of my stupid ideas_


    {I am writing it to make it up for the word count}


    Deep within the dense and sprawling forest. The verdant canopy above filtered the sunlight into dappled patches on the forest floor, creating a vibrant mosaic of shadows and light. It was here, amidst the rustling leaves and the distant chirping of birds, that Naruto decided to take a break from his rigorous training and enjoy some carefree playtime.


    Naruto was deep within the forest, lost in the joy of playing. As he darted through the tree, leaping from one branch to anther, his laughter echoing through the woods. Naruto reveled in these solitary moments, far from the hate and blaming gazes.


    Unbeknownst to him, the forest held a surprise that would shatter the tranquility of his playful escapade. In his exuberance, Naruto failed to notice a hidden figure standing in his path, partially obscured by the thick foliage.


    With a sudden and unexpected collision, Naruto was spent sprawling to the forest floor. Naruto momentarily stunned by the impact, blinked at the man who had appeared out of nowhere.


    "Who are you, old man?"


    The stranger appeared to be in his early thirties. His eyes bore an enigmatic intensity, and his rugged appearance hinted at a life filled with adventure and mysteries. He jumped and dusted off his clothes before fixing his gaze squarely on Naruto.


    In a voice that carried a weight of conviction, Zereeo said, "NARUTO, I AM YOUR FATHER!"


    *****

 7 - Meeting Superman #2

    "SUPERMAN!!!"


    "SUPERMAN!!! ITS LOIS LANE!!!"


    "CAN WE MEET!!!"


    "Will doing this really attract him? It just feels stupid to keep shouting for him on top of the Daily Planet," Jimmy asked Zion.


    Zion gave him a wide grin, "It is stupid but I works, you know."


    They both turned to Lois who was shouting "Superman" for them. They were on top floor of the Daily Planet''s towering skyscraper, standing just below the iconic giant globe. They had come up to meet superman and Jimmy was dragged by Lois to take pictures of this meeting. Lois wanted the meeting to be life changing for many who would read it.


    Jimmy laughed, "I knew I would like you."


    "I don''t think he is coming, probably busy saving the world somewhere." Lois said as she walked to them.


    "I wouldn''t be so sure, Ms. Lane," Zion smiled mysteriously as he looked behind her.


    A gust of wind rustled through, a precursor to the arrival of the legend. Suddenly, a figure clad in the iconic red and blue suit appeared in the sky above Daily planet''s skyscraper.


    Lois turned her eyes widen in surprise, "Superman!"


    Superman, with his chiseled jaw and piercing blue eyes, radiated an aura of strength and humility. He descended gracefully before Lois with a warm smile that immediately put everyone at ease.


    "You called, Ms. Lane," Superman said.


    "WOW!" A shocked gasp intervene. Zion was looking at superman with an amazed expression. "The legend in the flesh. The Man of Steel. Wow, just wow!"


    "You are?" Superman asked with a warm smile.


    Lois just chuckled at Zions antics, "This is Zion, from a town called Heavenfield. I met him at the coffe shop today and heard his request to converse with you on an important matter."


    Superman was listening to Lois as he looked at Zion shaking Jimmy and pointing at him. Zion then brisked and appeared next to Superman.


    Zion cleared his throat and suppressed his excitement. "Nice to meet you, I am Zion. I came to talk with you about world peace."


    Superman turned to Lois with a confused expression.


    Lois just put a hand on Zion''s shoulders to calm him. "I think he is just excited. He came here to ask you that if he could really make a difference. Even if he doesn''t have super strength or superpowers, And I thought this conversation might really help many others, not just Zion."


    Lois explained her reason. The question Zion had was not only a question he struggle with but also those of many. They were many ordinary people out in the world, feeling inferior. They want to make a change but they are disheartened because they don''t have anything special about them, like superpowers.


    "I understand, Ms. Lane." Superman then looked at Zion, his warm smile never fading, "Zion, I understand how you feel but the power to make a difference doesn''t always comes from superhuman abiliti-


    {New lifeform DNA analyzed. Acquisition complete.}


    Zion lifted his left hand where Omnitrix resided. He now knew that the Kryptonian DNA was acquired. But the problem was, it was in# wrong timing.


    ***


    {New life form DNA analyzed. Acquisition complete.}


    Superman clearly heard it, even without his super hearing. Superman, despite his warm and welcoming demeanor, couldn''t help but fell a flicker of suspicion. The watch just said that it had acquired his DNA and from all he knew, it was bad. He had encountered various typed of technology in his years as a hero, heck, his ship had all of krypton''s knowledge.


    Seeing Zion look at his watch, Superman became alert. He moved in front of Lois to protect her if things went out of hand. He then tired to see through the watch with his X-ray vision only to be disappointed. Since he didn''t know what it was, he has to confront it with Zion.


    "Zion, what is that watch of yours?" Superman asked, guarded.


    Zion lifted both his hands in surrender. "I know what it looks like, but I mean no harm."


    "Then I hope, you will explain what your watch said about acquiring my DNA," Superman asked, a bit relaxed.


    "Well, I think its better to show you."


    As the suspicion hung in the air, Zion decided to show it to them. After all, seeing is believing. Zion touched the faceplate of the Omnitixe, a golden holographic disk appeared with many different faces in a linear style. With his alien selected, the faceplate of the watch moved up, ejecting the core. Zion pressed it fast yet gently. He knew that if he press the core too hard, he would change into something different.


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    In a flash of bright golden light, Zion vanished. Lois and Jimmy looked around to find him, not knowing where he went.


    "I am here, people," A tiny, high pitched voice called.


    Lois and Jimmy looked to the voice, but no one was present.


    "Look down," The voice said again.


    They looked down, only to meet the big green eyes of a grey-skinned alien with a large head relative to his body size. He had four-fringed hands, and stood about seven inches tall. The alien then casually strode and hoped on the concrete guardrails, elevating his standing relative to his small size.


    "Superman, I assure you, I mean no harm. That''s why I turned into a form that you will not feel threatened," Zion assured with his tiny form.


    "You are an alien?" Lois asked.


    "No, I am human. I have just transformed into an alien. This form is of Galvan, an amphibious, insectivorous species form planet Galvan prime. They are an intelligent species. You have no idea how it feels when I transform into one of them, the world becomes so obsolete, it''s like it had lost all its color, leaving only Grey Matter," Zion replied, his voice melancholy.


    "How did you transform? Not only your outer but even your innards has changed, You were clearly human before," Superman asked.


    "It''s the Omnitrix, the watch I was wearing. It''s a device made by The First Thinker, Azmuth, Leader of Galvans. The Omnitrix is an advance technology that rewrites my genetic code, allowing me to transform into any alien I select. It already has a million species stored in it." Zion explained.


    "A million?" Jimmy gasped.


    "Yes, a million. Each of them with their unique characteristics and culture," Zion answered, "Omnitrix was made to create peace between different race by experiencing what it feel like to be them, to live as one of them. Not only that, but to be an ark that would carry on the legacy of those spices, if they ever went extinct."


    "A noble goal of creating peace between the races of this universe. That''s a heavy burden to carry," Lois said as he looked at Zions small form.


    "I know but it also make the Omnitrix a powerful weapon of destruction. It has the power to end civilizations." Zion transformed back to normal, his dark hair rustling in the wind.


    "I came to ask you, why you do what you do when you have all the power in the world to bring it down," Zion turned to superman.


    Superman clearly saw the trouble in Zion''s eyes. A kid with a world ending power in his hands, while not knowing what to do with it. He had come to the one person who could relate. Superman walked next to Zion and took a seat at the guardrails.


    "I understand your burden, Zion. You are straggling to find the correct path. You have the power, but the power to make a difference doesn''t always comes from super human abilities. It comes from the choices you make, the values you uphold, and the determination to do what''s right. Even without extraordinary strength, you can still inspire change, shed light on important issues, and make the world a better place."


    "Thank you, superman," Zion was genuinely grateful.


    ***


    "It seems like everything is okay," A feminine voices said.


    All four of them turned to look at the new arrival. A young women wearing a similar dress to superman''s iconic red and blue suit.


    "Wow, it''s the Supergirl," Jimmy gasped.


    "Ms, Lane, Zion and Jimmy, this is my cousin Kara. Kara, this is Ms. Lane, reporter in Daily Planet, this is Jimmy, Photojournalist in Daily planet, and Zion, a new hero," Superman gave a warm smile toward Zion to assure him.


    "Nice to meet you, Kara." Lois extended her hand.


    "Can I take a photo?" Jimmy asked, captivated by the female version of superman.


    Kara shook Lois'' hand and accepted Jimmy''s request if her face only her face isn''t visible in the photo. She then turned to see Zion, her interest in him was peaked after he said his watch is an ark that is used to carry the lineage of extinct species. That means, she could bring krypton back, sometime in the future.


    Zion just looked at her blankly, his eyes not moving from her. "You look beautiful, Miss Kara. Would you honor me with your company at the evening repast?" Zion gave a courteous bow as he asked Kara out.


    Kara just tilted her head in confusion. She may speak english but she doesn''t have the whole vocabulary. She learned english by observing those that imprisoned her.


    "He is asking you out on a dinner," Lois helped.


    "Will it be okay?" Zion asked.


    "I think it should be fine, but I want you to show me what your watch can do." Kara demanded. She wanted to learn what Zion''s what could do.


    "That''s it?!" Zion was happy.


    Zion quickly operated the Omnitrix, and searched for the new form he had acquired. A face similar to his appeared in the holographic disk. Zion selected his new Kryptonian form. Then with a flash of golden light Zion changed.


    But there was no change, confusing others. However, moment later, Zion''s black t-shirt and blue jeans started to warp and transform into a suit similar to what superman was wearing. Zion grew a bit in high, his jaw line sharpened, his muscles become bigger and compressed.


    Zion now looked more handsome. He was average in human standards before, now he was average in Kryptonian standards. Just kidding around.


    Zion closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He could feel the strength flowing through his vessel. He could feel his cells greedily absorb sunlight, strengthening themselves. His senses were sharpening, he could hear a conversation miles away. His eye heated up to emit heat vision.


    Zion opened his eyes and breathed out, controlling the stream of power. He looked at others, he was flying, levitating about the skyscraper. The feeling of getting stronger with every passing second was euphoric. Zion clenched his hand, feeling the power stored in them.


    "This is how you feel in the yellow sun? This is... addicting," Zion said as he checked himself out.


    The suit was similar to Superman, Black body suit with dark blue cape, with a silver outline of hourglass in his chest. The Omnitrix was situated below the navel, not in the chest. Probably due to fact that Superman get shot in the chest most of the time. Nope, the Omnitrix just took the form similar to Superman''s belt.


    Zion landed next to superman. "I can feel the strength flowing through me like a tidal wave. I still can''t believe this is how you feel all the time."


    "I understand what you are feeling but don''t be consumed by it," Superman advised.


    "Yes, sir," Zion gave salute. "And I am out."


    Zion lightly jumped up, and levitated himself in the air for a moment before flying off toward the space. His moment were fluid and natural like he was born Kryptonian.


    Omnitrix has a morph matrix that allow the user to gain full control of their new form. So, Zion was like any other Krypton born Kryptonian.


    *****


    Comment if you have some ideas for the future. (¨‘?¨‘)

 8 - Time Out

    "WOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWW!!!"


    Zion screamed as he soared high into the sky, leaving the earth''s surface behind as he ascended the sky, his heart raced with excitement and anticipation. With each passing moment, the world below seemed to shrink, its vastness becoming more apparent.


    The air grew thinner, and the sky darkened around Zion as he pushed higher into the atmosphere. As Zion reached the edge of the mesosphere, he paused, suspended in the thin air, feeling the weightlessness that came with this altitude. He turned his gaze downward, and the curvature of the earth came into full view. The vibrant blue and white of the planet''s surface contrasted with the deep black of space, creating a breathtaking spectacle.


    "How peaceful!" Zion muttered, surrounded by the cosmic silence.


    He could still feel the growing strength of his new body, it was like a battery that could infinitely charge, never reaching its limit. But the question was what will happen when he changes back? Will he just lose the stellar energy stored in his Kryptonian form and would he need to absorb the stellar energy again? Will he go supernova? Or Will his strengthen body just be restored after he transforms again?


    If I need to absorb the stellar energy to refill myself again, I can''t change into a Kryptonian at night. Think of superman who could only works in the morning, now that''s hilarious. {Kryptonian''s form feels like it runs on solar power, hahahah. And Don''t forget that Omnitrix stores DNA of creatures. Zion gains their natural born abilities, like absorbing solar power, but not arguments abilities like strength that is produced from solar energy. Comment if I am wrong.}


    Zion sighed as he didn''t know. ''This is going to be a trouble. Maybe I should just build an armour to counter that problem. I would need to create a miniature yellow sun and contain it inside the suit without causing a singularity that would wipe this earth.''


    Zion unconsciously stopped levitating himself as he fully concentrating on building the armour.


    Zion began his decent, gravity pulling him faster and faster. The world rushed to meet him, and the sensation would have been exhilarating if not for him lost in thought. Zion''s cape billowed in the rushing wind as he cut through the atmosphere.


    As he descended, the world around him transitioned into silent emptiness of space to the roaring tumult of the lower atmosphere. The air resistance generating a fiery aura around him, a testament to the sheer speed of his decent.


    Zion''s brain worked at hyper speed, outlining the armour''s design. "To create this suit," Zion mused, "I will need to tap into Kryptonian knowledge and combine it with Earth''s cutting-edge technology. The miniature sun at the core will be a fusion of Kryptonian crystal and Earths advanced tech. The miniature sun will not only strengthen my Kryptonian form but also increase the strength and defense of my other forms."


    With the earth''s surface drawing closer, Zion continued, "The armour itself should be a seamless blend of durability and flexibility. A nanotech alloy will allow it to adapt to my movements effortlessly, while still providing superior protection against any threat."


    [Beep] [Beep] [Beep] [Beep][Beep]


    Zion was snapped out of his thought as the beeping sound of Omnitrix increased in frequency. Zion didn''t panic, and slowed downed the speed of his falling so he doesn''t go splat. With a flash of golden light, Zion transformed back. Zion spread his hands, creating much drag as he could. He lifted his watch, ready to transform, only to be hit with a "Time out".


    "Well... SUPERMAN!!! SAVE ME!!! I. AM. OUT. OF. CHARGE!!!" Zion shouted like a damsel in distress.


    Zion was plummeting to the ground with increased speed . He knew that he would not die due to Omnitrix''s safety mechanism, but that doesn''t mean that he was not scared shitless seeing the hard, solid earth approaching at high speed.


    "AHHH!! I AM DEAD!!!" Zion shouted.


    "Can you stop screaming?" A soft feminine voice said next to him.


    Zion''s head snapped to the side, his face brightening. "Kara!!!"


    ***


    Kara watched as Zion took fight towards the infinite cosmos.


    Zion had instantly controlled the overflowing energy, showing the mastery over his body. She could see that Zion had no trouble controlling his new found powers as he soared thought the sky.


    "Well, he seems to be in control," Superman remarked with slight surprise.


    "What do you mean?" Lois asked, curious to learn more about superman and his adventures.


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    "Well, when I first learned of my powers as a child, lets just say it was not a good experience. Learning that you are different from everyone was a bit shocking and frightening. I could lift things without meaning to, or I''d accidentally run faster than the wind. I nearly destroyed our farm with my heat vision," Superman reminisced, a small smile formed on his lips.


    "It was then my parents told me about my arrival to earth. I still remember my mother telling stories about me lifting my fathers car when I was just three years old. They taught me everything, instilled in me the importance of responsibility and using my powers for good."


    "Me, too. I blew my ship being unable to control my heat vision."


    Kara thought back to her arrival to earth, it was not a pleasantest experience. She crash landed on earth and crawling out of the wreckage, everything was so strange and different. The yellow sun gave her strength but it only confused her even more. Then things took a dark turn, being captured by some secret organization and being imprisoned in a cold dark cell.


    "Seems like being strong comes with its troubles," Jimmy remarked.


    "I does. Being all powerful comes with its responsibility," Superman affirmed.


    Kara looked at Zion who was falling back to Earth. His posture suggesting that he was definitely not flying back, he was falling without control. She used her Zoom vision as she observed Zion.


    Zion was not panicking, he was more like lost in thought. She then saw the Omnitrix hum, Zion turning to slow his descend and with a flash of light transform back to his human form. Zion then tried to change into another form but he couldn''t.


    She saw as Zion''s calm demeanor break and replaced with panic. And then, "SUPERMAN!!! SAVE ME!!! I. AM. OUT. OF. CHARGE!!!" Zion shouted like a damsel in distress.


    Kara swiftly reacted as she flew toward Zion, turing into a steak of red and blue across the sky. With a burst of incredible speed, she reached Zion.


    "AHHH!! I AM DEAD!!!" Zion shouted, again.


    "Can you stop screaming?" Kara asked, her ears ringing due to the close proximity and super hearing.


    "Kara!!!" Zion''s panic turned into relief as he saw her.


    Kara wrapped her arms around him, effortlessly stopping his fall. Her cape billowed in the wind as she carried Zion to safety in a princess carry. Zion had warp his arm around her neck. Zion looked into Kara''s eyes.


    "Thank you," he said, "My watch timed out."


    Kara landed on the Daily Planet skyscraper. Zion hurriedly got out of Kara''s grasp out in embarrassment.


    "What happened?" Superman asked.


    "Well, Omnitrix transforms me back to human after a period of time. It''s a safety mechanism to prevent my DNA from altering permanently," Zion explained.


    "So, you can only transform for a short period of time?" Kara asked.


    "No, I can keep my transformation for long as I want but my DNA might change permanently and I don''t want to have green skin due to mutation," Zion joked.


    "Every power has its limit," Jimmy remarked.


    "He knows," Zion pointed.


    "Can you change others DNA permanently?" Kara asked.


    Zion turned to her, looking at her curiously. "Why would you want to know? And I can change others DNA."


    "Just wanted to know." Kara answered.


    "So, Can I get my date?" Zion wiggled his eyebrows.( ? £þ¨Œ£þ)?


    "You can have it," Kara agreed.


    "Okay, meet you tomorrow at 4:00 p.m., Bibbo''s Diner," Zion replied.


    "So, what are we going to do now?" Jimmy asked.


    "You got the photo with me and superman talking. Right?" Zion asked.


    "What do you think, mate?" Jimmy smirked.


    "Lois will edit it into what she wants, a hope for people without power. An assurance that even if you are ordinary, you can do the extraordinary things," Zion turned to Lois.


    "I can do it," Lois affirmed.


    "You got your news for tomorrow and I got to meet superman. Finally, we can all enjoy the pie. Now, where is the pie?" Zion asked.


    "Here," Jimmy extended the bag he was holding.


    "Lets have some pie," Zion turned to superman.


    "Sorry kid, Duty calls," Superman gave a nod to everyone before he flew away.


    "Pie?" Zion turned to Kara.


    "Sorry, got to go," Kara flew off.


    Zion puffed his cheeks and looked at the remaining pair. Lois and Jimmy shrugged and took a piece of pie each. They walked to the door was they enjoyed the delicious apple pie. They got down to the ground floor and started working to publish.


    Zion left them to do their work and exited the Daily planet. He got to his car and contemplate what had happened.


    "Things went well for now. I have established connections with Superman and Supergirl. I need to find the other leaguers, but I am not going to assemble them just yet. Cyborg is important in the formation of Justice League and Titans. I can''t disturb his birth.


    So, I should meet others. Maybe, I should meet Batman, he will know about me eventually and I need his resources to build my armour. Then maybe I should go meet the fastest man alive."


    Zion closed his diary after writing down his plans for now. Zion kept his diary and turned his car around to meet the Dark Knight.


    The car zoomed out of the city of tomorrow.


    ***


    -Batcave-


    Batman entered the Batcave after his routine patrol, the familiar hum of the Batcomputer and the soft glow of the monitors providing a comforting sense of normalcy(Batman standards). As he removed his cowl and begun to review the night''s data, his keen instincts picked up a subtle irregularity.


    The Bat computer''s display flickers momentarily before stabilizing, and an unusual message flashes across the screen, one that''s not part of his usual Batcave protocols. Batman narrowed his eyes realizing that something is amiss.


    His eyes dart around the cave, scanning for any signs of disturbance. The Batmobile, usually neatly parked, appeared to have been moved slightly. Batman quickly checked the surveillance feeds, noticing a glitch in one of the cameras. Batman''s instincts kick into high gear as he approached the Batmobile cautiously, his gloved hands hovering over the utility belt, ready to access any necessary gadgets.


    "Batman," a robotic yet sentient voice called.


    Batman turned to the voice, and was met with an astonishing sight. Emerging from the shadow was what looked like his bat armour, covered in green glowing circuit, a singular circle adorning its face.


    "Hello, Batman," The thing waved at Batman with humane fluidity.


    Batman remained cautious and vigilant as ever, as he addressed the mysterious intruder with a stern tone. "I don''t know who or what you are, But you''re in my cave, uninvited. Explain yourself."


    The being nodded his head in understand and walked to his Bat computer. He hovered his hands above the supercomputer, and the green circuit line retracted from his body and flowed into the computer.


    *****

 9 - Bat talk

    -Batcave-


    In the dimly lit Batcave, Batman stood in silence as he watched the emerald-green lines of energy flow from the cybernetic entity. They snaked their way from the entity to his high-tech computer, the Bat computer. The lines, a vibrant green hue, wrapped around the computer''s metallic frame, tracing intricate patterns, and bathing the entire system in an eerie, otherworldly glow. It was as if an alien force had descended upon his sanctum.


    As the green light enveloped the Bat computer, It''s massive screen flickered to life, casting an eerie green illumination across the cave. Batman couldn''t help but be captivated by the surreal spectacle unfolding before him.


    Batman had seen many things in his crime-fighting career, but this was unlike anything he had encountered before. His ever-vigilant mind raced to comprehend the situation. He watched as the unknown entity take full control of his computer leaving his battle armour standing.


    Then, it stuck him like a bolt of lightning. The entity he was observing was two separate things, his battle armour and an alien force; it was, in fact, fused with his battle armour, which he had meticulously crafted and enhanced over the years. It had become a vessle for this enigmatic green energy.


    And now it had taken control of his computer, with a purpose of his own.


    The green glow pulsated in rhythm with Batman''s heartbeat as he contemplated the situation. His eyes remained locked on the now-green Bat computer screen. It displayed an array of holographic data and symbols, all in a language he didn''t recognize.


    With the curiosity that had driven him to become the Dark Knight, Batman leaned closer, trying to make sense of it all.{Well, for your knowledge. Batman started his carrier searching for why his parents were killed.}


    When the eerie silence became too uncomfortable, the green screen hummed and an electric voice spoke from the Bat computer.


    "Hello again, Batman (£Þ£Õ£Þ)¥Î~£Ù£Ï"


    "What are you?" Batman inquired, his voice cold.


    "Well, you can call me Upgrade. /(¨R?¨Q)?" The green text and emoticon on the computer screen declared, its voice echoing within the cave.


    "I asked what are you? How did you find my base of operation? How are you able to possess my armour and computer?" Batman''s voice grew intense.


    "Wow wow,<(£þ c£þ)y Chill mate, I am here to help." The emoticon on the screen began to became more expressive. "I am Upgrade, a Galvanic mechamorph."


    "An alien?" Batman concluded.


    "Yes, I am. (?¡ö_¡ö)"


    "What are you doing in my Batcave? How did you find it?" Batman asked.


    "It was pretty easy. I hacked into all networks in Gotham to find a supercomputer that was sneaking around. You know, when I traced its source back to Wayne manor, I thought that batman was hiding under it, like, being roommates with Bruce Wayne or something but its was a pretty stupid conclusion.¡¥\_(¥Ä)_/¡¥"


    Batman''s brows creased into a frown.


    "(¡«£þ¨Œ£þ)¡« ,Then I easily infiltrated the Batcave and waited for you to return.£¾©n£¼ Which was boring by the way."


    "What do you want?" Batman continued his interrogation.


    "I do want something, but before that, What. Do. You. Want. Batman?" The electric voice hummed with eeriness.


    "What do you mean?" Batman asked.


    "You are weak, Batman. You are a normal human, without any powers or argumentation. You are not strong enough to end the crimes in Gotham, far from it. But I can give you that, a power beyond comprehension, strength to defeat gods. So, what do you say?" The green text on the screen asked, its voice like a enchanting serpent.


    "I don''t need it," Batman declared with resolve.


    The green screen didn''t change as Upgrade observed Batman. Both of them stood in a standstill, observing each other, the rising tension between them palpable.


    "Good," The voice said suddenly, alerting the Batman.


    As Batman stood guard, Upgrade''s mechanical tendrils extended from his black and glowing green body, reaching out of the Bat computer. The tendrils carefully and methodically disengaged from the various ports and connections they had fused with.


    With a series of soft metallic clicks and whirring sounds, the tendrils retracted one by one, leaving the Bat computer unbound. The eerie green light that had enveloped the machine slowly dissipated as Upgrade completed the process.


    Batman watched in fascination and suspicion as the last tendril detached. The Bat computer''s once-ensnared components now hung free and operational. The detached tendrils then morphed together to form a eight foot humanoid.


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    The humanoid had a muscular frame with a circular device on its head with a golden hourglass symbol, surrounded by a green circle. It had a black exterior with green strips that resembled circuitry all over him, with his front torso a dark green with black circuitry patterns. It''s long hands extended up to its shin.


    Upgrade now fully detached from the Bat computer, looked straight at the Dark knight. Its circular eye focusing on him.


    "You are as rigid as ever," His eyes glowed as he spoke, "Nice to meet you, Batman. Name''s Zion."


    Zion extended his hand for a shake. Batman observed just observed his hands without taking it, he was suspicious as ever.


    Zion retracted his hand. "I know that you are suspicious, Batman, and I do want to explain things to you but now is not the time nor place."


    "You think you can leave?" Batman asked, threateningly.


    "I can," Zion said as his body liquefied.


    "And I am stealing your Batbike," Zion remarked as he jumped and attached himself to the Batbike, immediately upgrading it.


    [Broooom][Bike roaring sound]


    The Batbike spun in place, creating smoke from its wheels, before it looked straight at Batman, its front eyes glaring at him. The Batbike had gone under a full change. The black bike had green circuitry line covering all of it. It body had become sleek, its entire surface covered in a metallic, shapeshifting layer. The bike''s guns had a green glow to them, showing that they can shoot more than just bullets.


    "Meet you at Metropolis, Bibbo''s, 3 p.m," The circular pattern on the bike''s head hummed, "And check out my gift. Peace out!"


    With that the bike turned from Batman and accelerated off towards the Batcave''s entrance, The gate easily opened to let him leave.


    Now, Batman stood alone it the cave filled with the echoes of his stolen bike''s roar. His eyes narrowed as his brained worked to put all the puzzles he collected during their conversation. With all the clues he had, he deduced the traits of the Upgrade. From its technologically advanced form to its possession to the single target at a time.


    Batman was no fool, he knew that if someone could enter his cave without alerting his system, that person should have had high level of intellect. And Upgrades feats just showed his powers. Batman gaze lingered towards the caves entrance before he turned to check his devices.


    He walked up to his computer, typing away to check the file that were stored. After half an hour of skimming through, he found his data wasn''t tempered with. Moreover, that his computer seemed to be enhanced. The already supercomputer was performing calculations at mach speeds and his A.I. seems to have gained a bit of sentience.


    While he was searching, he also found a folder that was named to him which was not one of his. He clicked open the file, he found something surprising. Yes, the Dark Knight was surprised.


    "What are you?" Batman mumbled.


    ***


    Zion drove the stolen BatBike across Gotham, scaring all the criminals. Even the sound of Batman''s vehicle gave these guys nightmares. After enjoying the ride, he took the bike straight out of the Gotham and toward Metropolis.


    He lowered his engines roar and drove it toward a warhorse he had bought with Batman''s money. While being in the form of a Galvanic mechamorph, hacking into a primitive technology was a child''s play.


    He also ordered some of the materials he will need to conduct experiments and make the new power suit for himself. He had yet to ask Superman for his Kryptonian knowledge stored in the fortress of solitude.


    Superman would be suspicious if he asked him right away. He need to warm up to the guy before making that request. He need to earn Superman''s trust.


    But even without the Kryptonian knowledge and tech, he could still build the suit but it will just be a prototype version as his suit would look like the hulk buster armour. He needed something more lean and flexible like Black Panther suit.


    Zion parked the bike in the middle of the empty warehouse and detached from it, transforming back to his human form. Zion looked at the Batbike, its blackness blending with the warehouse''s darkness.


    Zion had a goofy smile on his lips. "Would anyone believe that I stole the Batbike from Batman?"


    Zion then dragged as dusty cloth and covered the bike. he knew that this warehouse was safe but he didn''t want to take chances.


    "The Batcomputer should do its work for me now," Zion had a evil mischievous smile as he thought about the programs he uploaded into Batman''s system.


    He not only upgraded its operating system into something un-comparable to the tech on Earth, he also made sure to delete any kind of data of him from the internet from his birth to his arrival to Metropolis was erased. He also created an algorithm that will automatically remove him from any digital files.


    He is now a man without any identity. Don''t worry, he can just bring them back or get another identity similar to it.


    Most importantly, he had direct access to batman''s bank account.


    "Damn, I am getting away with stealing from Batman. Let''s not push my luck by doing something to anger him. He will probably break my bones," Zion shuddered as he closed the warehouse''s door.


    He then walked up to his car. "You are still the best." He said as he got it.


    He would soon need to upgrade his car into something like a transformer or a Mech. It could fight some cannon fodders while he deal with some serious villain''s like Penguin or Riddler.


    "Hahahah, they are so serious, haha," Zion just laughed as he thought about them committing crimes with serious faces.


    Zion then drove off happily to his apartment in Metropolis city. He bought it with Batman''s money. It is near the Daily planet skyscraper. It will be used for his stay in Metropolis. He will return to his apartment in Central Haven when he needs to meet the Flash.


    He still thinks its really a quirky name to be called ''The Flash''. I mean, ''The Flash,'' couldn''t writers think of a better name. I am not saying it is a bad name, it is iconic, but it could have been better. Like Tachyon, Savitar, Godspeed, Windbreaker.


    Why villains get cool names?


    Well, we will push the naming matters aside. What should he called? He can''t just go Zion 10, come on, that''s not how it worked. He needed a name but he felt like he shouldn''t even have a name because if he doesn''t have a name, how are they going to refer to him, to target him.


    Maybe, being a literal ghost will be the best option.


    "Next up on the list should be Flash. I don''t want to meet a Green Lantern, by extension the Oan guardians. If they found out about my device, lets just say I have a low chance beating them without turning into Alien X," Zion muttered.


    Oan guardians being the oldest race of the universe and wielding some reality warping powers. As long as they think that he is a threat to the peace they try so hard to maintain, they would try to remove him from the face of this universe.


    You can say that he will eventually meet with the Green Lantern anyway when the Justice League assembles, but he would rather not do it until he had his armour. Then, if they want to deal with him, they can deal with a super powered Kryptonian who would only get stronger as they fight.


    "HAHAHAHAHA,"


    ******


    Thank you for reading.<(£þ¦á£þ)>

 10 - Bat Talk #2

    -Bibbo''s Diner-


    The midday sun caste a warm, inviting glow through the large windows of Bibbo''s Diner. The atmosphere relaxed, with the lunchtime crowd enjoying their meals and casual conversation.


    Zion, the young man who causes trouble wherever he goes, sat at a booth near the window. He sat slouched, his fingers drumming lazily on the table, his eyes fixated on the wall clock above the counter. It was only 02.59 p.m. The ticking seconds seem to drag on as he awaited Batman''s arrival.


    Zion was wearing a dark-blue jacket with a plane white t-shirt, and matching black trouser. He came ready for the date after the talk with Batman.


    The aroma of the comforting food filled the air, mixing with the soft chatter of diners. Zion checked his watch, then the clock, and finally gazes out the window at the bright afternoon. He wondered if Batman would come.


    ''Maybe he has some appointment? He is a billionaire after all. I should have asked if he was free,'' Zion thought that he made a mistake somewhere.


    Zion knew that he could not outsmart the smartest man on this planet, but he could deal with him by keeping him in the dark. As long as the Dark Knight is kept in the dark, he would not strike. Batman is cautious, he would not move without knowing how to defeat his opponent, well for high level threats and not-urgent matters.


    As the clock''s second hand made its slow journey toward 12, The diner''s entrance swung open, and an unassuming civilian strolled in. It was Bruce Wayne, devoid of his ionic attire, blending seamlessly with the mundane surroundings, drawing minimal attention from the oblivious patrons.


    Bruce wore a dark brown jacket, a white shirt and black pants. His attire blended with the lunchtime crowd of the diner.


    Zion maintained his lazy posture, and raised his hand to attract Batman''s attention. Batman immediately noticed the young man waving at him. He could see that the boy was gesturing toward him. Seeing that he had Batman''s attention, Zion pointed to the seat across him.


    Batman casually walked to the booth and took the seat,casually, not attracting attention. He then looked at Zion in the eyes, his mind thinking of many possibilities about Zion''s human appearance.


    Zion met Batman with blatant sloth. He was not fazed facing the Dark knight who could shut even the strongest of leaguers with his cold gaze. Batman just looked at him with scrutinizing gaze.


    Zion adjusted his posture and beckoned to the kind waitress. The women walked up to him with a kind smile. She clearly recognized Zion as he has been having all his meals at the diner for the last two days.


    "Is it the same again?" She asked with a kind smile.


    "Yes, ma''am," Zion replied with a warm smile.


    The waitress then turned to Bruce, "What would you like, sir?"


    "A black coffee would be enough," Bruce has a small smile matching his persona for the day.


    Taking both of their order the kind lady left them to have their conversation. Zion, shedding his earlier indifference, straightened in his seat. He looked at Batman in the eyes, serious as he could.


    "I am not giving the bike back."


    Bruce just looked at him without replying. He didn''t care about the bike, he could just build another, but what he was here was for a different issue and he confirmed he was talking with the right person.


    "What do you want?" Batman asked the question, starting his interrogation.


    Zion leaned back on the seat, his expression thoughtful. "Bruce, I''ve observed your methods closely, and I can''t help think that they are uneffective as pinching a crying child to stop its crying. Are they truly making a dent in Gotham''s relentless crime? You like a lone wolf fighting against a rising tide."


    As he spoke, Zion''s gaze remained steady on Bruce, searching for a reaction.


    "Even the merciful GOD flooded the earth to cleanse of its sin, he destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah for their wickedness. When even the generous and most merciful GOD gets angry, why you, a human, think that you could save some by locking them behind bars, only for them to breakout and commit crime again?"


    Zion''s words hung in the air as the waitress bustled about, tending to their orders. The atmosphere inside the diner had indeed grown more relaxed, despite the weighty topic at hand. The waitress placed their orders on the table. Zion gave her an appreciative nod before turning back to Bruce.


    Bruce, now sipping his black coffee, contemplated Zion''s unconventional perspective. Then he replied calmly, "I''ve heard my methods questioned countless times, and I''ve questioned them myself. The darkness I embrace, it''s not without reason. Gotham''s crime, its corruption, it''s a relentless storm that demands a fierce response, but killing is not the way.


    Even the God you talk about gave his son to be sacrificed so his blood could give the humans another chance."


    Zion looked at Batman seriously, he was expecting his point to be used against him, but darn. "I am not suggesting you to become an executioner, Bruce, ending every human life in Gotham. No, that''s not what this is about. It''s about recognizing those who are beyond redemption, like the Joker. People have shown time and again that they won''t change, that they thrive in chaos."


    Zion''s tone softened as he continued, his voice carrying a hint of empathy.


    "And then there are those like Mr. Freeze, individuals who are driven by tragic circumstance, consumed by their own pain. They might still have a chance for redemption, for a life beyond crime. Isn''t it our, your especially, to find a way to help them, to show them there''s a path back to light?"


    Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!Bruce considered Zion''s words carefully. He leaned back in his seat, his expression contemplative.


    "I''ve spent years grappling with the question of how to deal with those like the Joker and Mr. Freeze. It''s a constant moral dilemma. I can''t be the judge and executioner, but I can''t simply turn a blind eye either."


    He paused, his voice tinged with a sense of frustration. "My methods may seem extreme, but they''re rooted in the belief that even the most twisted souls can find redemption. I won''t kill, but I''ll do everything in my power to bring them to justice and offer them a chance to change, no matter how slim that chance may be. Just like the GOD you speak of, everyone deserves a chance."


    Zion nodded, acknowledging the complexity of Batman''s position. He understood batman, but Zion would rather send the criminals to be judged by GOD then give them a chance to take another life. He would break bones and spines, if it mean to stop them from ever committing crimes again.


    But Zion also understood what Bruce was talking, after all, his whole life he was preached about the love of GOD. His father had drilled into him many times that everyone who walks this Earth deserve the chance, to change and be good.


    "I understand, I really do. But I also know that you fear getting consumed by the pleasure of killing." Zion knew of Batman''s fears.


    The man didn''t want to become what he fought against, to become what his nemesis wanted him to be. And Zion didn''t want to Batman to become an executioner, he wanted to help him see another path, a better one.


    "You trained your whole life to for this, starting with the death of your parents. I understand that you don''t want to go down that path, but what about another?"


    Zion asked, causing Bruce to look at his skeptically. Zion took a thick folded paper from his jacket and slid it to Batman. Batman picked it up and opened to find a blueprint. The blueprint contained a cubical device with sophisticated design, labeled [Atomic Engine].


    "Its an advanced version of nuclear reactor, designed to generate clean, limitless energy. With this you could power the entire Gotham without relying on conventional sources. It uses nuclear waste from nuclear plants and experiments. A cubic meter of it could power entire Gotham for at least a millennium."


    Zion briefed.


    Bruce scanned the blueprint more carefully. He could see the intricate part that seemingly fit together to create a 600 cell platonic structure inside tesseract. The designs measurement were kept in ratio standards, showing that the structure can be adjusted to specific needs.


    "Why are you showing this to me?" Bruce asked.


    He knew that this kind of technology would many lust over it. This [Atomic engine] could produce waste free energy and run a city for a thousand years. Then there is the untold power of the engine if it was turned to a weapon.


    "I am giving this to you because you know what it mean to have wealth and help other. This will help you have the whole of energy industry at you palm. But I don''t want anyone else to know about this engine, and I alone can build this for you.


    And I need money," Zion said the last part in whispers.


    "I understand what you are trying to say. But this tech is dangerous in the wrong hands," Batman said.


    "That''s why only I am allowed to built it and you to use it," Zion pointed.


    "And How do I trust you to?" Batman asked the question.


    Zion showed a shocked and betrayed expression, "We have been having the talk for this long and you still don''t trust me, Darn."


    "I don''t trust, Zion. I don''t even know if that is your name," Batman replied.


    "My name is Zion, want me to show my driver''s license," Zion took out his wallet to show it to Bruce.


    "How can I trust that it is not faked?" Batman asked.


    Zion just froze, realizing that he can''t prove shit to Batman after erasing his identity from all database, "Well, just trust me." Zion gave forced smile.


    Batman just raised his eyebrow, he had a rule to never trust someone and be suspicious of everything.


    "Okay, listen Bruce. If you don''t want to trust me as a person, then we could be in a business partnership. I build the engine and you pay me, easy?" Zion spoke of the alternative,


    Zion couldn''t convince the most sceptial person on this planet to trust him with few flowery words. You want Batman to trust you, you got to earn it through blood.


    "Then what about the one I met in the cave?" Batman asked.


    "One of my forms," Zion replied.


    "Shapeshifting?" Batman asked.


    "Kinda," Zion kept it vague.


    "Okay," Batman gave a slight nod, "I will trust you on this as you don''t seem to be lying."


    "Hey, I don''t lie," Zion shrugged.


    Batman took another sip of his coffee, and Zion munched on the extra spicy shawarma. The scene was peaceful for a moment, until Zion talked again.


    "But I still suggest filling the criminals with the fear of god. Strict laws, zero tolerance with specific offense and heavy punishment that boarder on offending the human rights could frighten criminals from committing crime. I mean, we could execute the worst of criminals in public and cut the hands of robbers who bombs. What do you think?"


    Batman just glared at Zion, but he also contemplated. Zion just took a bite out of the shawarma, unfazed by Batman''s glare.


    "I am correct and you know it too," Zion said, matter-of-factly.


    C''mon, we already have a country with less than 10 % crime rate and safe for anyone who is living in it. USA is definitely not in that list.

 11 - Date

    - Bibbo''s Restaurant -


    Zion munched on the shawarma as he glanced at the clock. It was only 3:15 PM, just fifteen minutes into their conversation. He turned to Bruce, who had finished his cup of coffee. Bruce was getting ready to leave; he didn''t have time to sit around and enjoy the day.


    "I''ll return and analyze the blueprint. I''ll contact you once I''ve made a decision," Batman stated.


    "How will you contact me?" Zion inquired.


    Batman paused, realizing that he had promised to find Zion almost instinctively. He had always known how to reach the people he dealt with; if not, he would find a way. He was Batman, after all.


    However, Zion was an enigma. Bruce had attempted to locate individuals named ''Zion'' rather than ''Upgrade'' (hoping that no one would name their child ''Upgrade''), but he had only found a handful of people with that name, none of whom matched the person he had met today. He didn''t even know if the person before him was using their real appearance.


    Furthermore, he had discovered several algorithms running on his computer that erased all traces of specific data. He knew the data being deleted was related to an identity, but he couldn''t determine whose. He couldn''t even break down the code to identify it, and it was his own computer.


    "Here," Zion slid a small pen drive toward Bruce. "It contains a list of materials I need and my phone number. Just give me a call, and I''ll meet you at the cave."


    Bruce didn''t respond with words but nodded before departing. He pushed open the door and stepped out into the bright early evening. His civilian attire allowed him to blend seamlessly with the bustling Metropolis crowd.


    As Zion watched, Bruce disappeared into the city''s busy streets.


    ***


    Zion continue to observe the daily life of Metropolis. He watched as people hurried past, each absorbed in their own world, their faces hidden behind newspapers or glowing screens. Towering skyscrapers loomed overhead, casting long shadows on the sunlit streets.


    Despite being surrounded by so many people, a sense of loneliness crept over Zion. He was beginning to feel homesick, though he would never admit it. He missed the familiar sights and sounds of his hometown, as well as the comforting annoyance of his friend, Mark. He had never left that "boring" town, as he calls it, throughout his life. That town was his home, but he had tasks to complete here.


    He needed to prepare, especially to confront Darkseid, not kill. Killing Darkseid would have far-reaching consequences through time, and he couldn''t afford to be swept away by the tide it would create. Then there was Doomsday, an absolute killing machine that posed a serious threat to Superman.


    But with me building the Stellar Armor, that shouldn''t be an issue. Yep, that''s what I''ll call the yellow sun armour. It should enhance Superman''s strength enough for him to battle Doomsday without tiring.


    And let''s not forget yours truly will be present. I can simply reduce Doomsday to atoms with Atomix. Ben couldn''t use Atomix for extended periods because of his stamina; it took a considerable toll on him. But I don''t have that drawback. I mean, Atomix created a miniature sun and left it suspended even after reverting to his original form, that was only one of his feats.


    I won''t admit that Ben is weak just because he lost to Malgax. We all know Ben was getting fatigued, especially while using Atomix.


    Let''s just agree that Ben never used his alien at full power. He always held back during his fights.


    As his thoughts drifted further and further, he became lost in them, and time became irrelevant, with only his thoughts to alleviate his boredom.


    ***


    Zion slowly emerged from his reverie, refocusing on reality. He glanced at the clock; it read 3:59 p.m. Kara was due to arrive. Zion straightened in his seat, exuding confidence, shedding his previously bored expression. As he composed himself, the door to Bibbo''s Diner swung open, and there she was ¨C Kara Zor-El, entering with an air of casual confidence.


    For their meeting, Kara had opted for a tomboyish outfit that exuded effortless style. She wore a simple black tee that highlighted her casual yet attractive demeanor, paired with dark jeans that perfectly complemented her top. These comfortable yet flattering jeans accentuated her relaxed yet fashionable look. Over her shoulders hung a black leather jacket, adding a touch of edginess to her ensemble.


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    Her hair was neatly combed to the side, and her bright blue eyes sparkled with a faint smile as she spotted Zion. Her appearance was effortless, yet it carried a stunning charm. Zion found himself captivated by Kara''s presence, completely enchanted. (A side note: If Mark were here, he might have teased Zion for being smitten, but unfortunately, he''s not around.)


    Zion greeted her with a warm smile as she approached, although his mind struggled to re-anchor itself to reality. As Kara settled across from him at their table, the bustling diner seemed to fade into the background, leaving only the two of them in a suspended moment in time.


    "Hello, Zion," Kara greeted him.


    Zion shook off his momentary daze, his thoughts finally regaining their composure. "Ah... Nice to meet you... You look stunning," he complimented her without thinking.


    Kara returned the compliment with a polite response, albeit a bit reserved. As their eyes met, Zion briefly glanced at his own attire and then back to Kara, reassuring himself that he had dressed appropriately, far better than his initial plan of showing up in an exquisite tuxedo.


    It was a blue jackets with white t-shirt and dark blue jean.


    "Thank you for the compliment, and for meeting me here," Zion replied.


    Kara acknowledged his gratitude with a nod before they discussed the idea of having a meal to continue their conversation. The decision was swiftly made.


    Zion signaled the friendly waitress over to their table. She approached with a kind smile, noting Zion''s busy day.


    The waitress addressed Kara, "And what would you like, dear?"


    Kara perused the diner''s menu, taking her time to explore the unfamiliar dishes of Earth. After contemplation, she made her choice. "I''ll have a cheeseburger and a milkshake, please. I''ve heard it''s one of the best dishes to try here."


    The waitress turned her attention to Zion, inquiring about his order. He promptly replied, "I''ll have the same."


    With their orders placed, the waitress departed, leaving Zion and Kara to continue their conversation while they awaited their meal.


    Zion shifted his attention to Kara, his demeanor composed and collected. "So, Kara, how has your experience been on this Earth?"


    Kara hesitated for a moment, catching Zion''s emphasis on ''this Earth.'' Her guard went up as she asked, "What do you mean by ''this Earth''?"


    Zion clarified, "I meant this Earth where you arrived only ten days ago. How have you found your time here?"


    Kara''s inquired, yet alert of any sudden momens, "How did you know about that?"


    "I know many things, Kara. From your arrival on Earth to the fight with Zod and dying at his hands," Zion replied, not providing a direct answer.


    "How did you know?" Kara asked, her eyes turning red with impatience.


    "Wow, wow... calm down, you don''t want to kill civilians," Zion raised his hands in surrender. "I am something similar to your existence, Kara. An anomaly that shouldn''t exist, at least on this side of the multiverse."


    "You are from another universe?" Kara asked, seeking clarification about his origin.


    "No, no, I was born and raised here, on this very planet that''s orbiting around the yellow sun and is a trouble magnet," Zion replied.


    "Then how do you know all this?" Kara remained skeptical.


    "My body was born on this planet, but not my soul. My soul comes from outside this multiverse. You could say I am a reincarnator." Zion shrugged. "I have eons of memories in my head, which is weird by the way. It''s like being an old man who understands the secrets of the universe and, at the same time, a child who''s curious about the stars in the sky."


    Kara absorbed this unusual explanation without further comment, processing the nature of Zion''s existence.


    "Why are you here? There must be a reason for your presence," Kara inquired, believing there had to be a purpose behind it. She, herself, had a duty to protect this Earth, a commitment made with that mysterious entity who had saved her.


    "Well, I am here to prepare the champions of Earth to fight the fight of their lifetime. And I do know the person who brought you here, but I can''t tell you about him," Zion explained cryptically.


    "Then why did he save me?" Kara pressed, seeking clarification about her specific role.


    "Well, I can only say that your existence is special, Kara," Zion replied, leaving her with no further explanation.


    Kara contemplated this response, realizing that delving further into the matter related to her arrival or the enigmatic being who had saved her might be fruitless at this time. Instead, she shifted her focus to other pieces of information she had received.


    While Kara contemplated, a waiter arrived with their food. Zion acknowledged the waiter with a nod of appreciation before turning his attention back to Kara.


    "What about the threat?" Kara asked, referring to the danger she had been informed of.


    Zion smiled mysteriously but remained silent.


    "What are you preparing us for?" She pressed, her tone becoming more assertive.


    Zion continued to withhold specifics and merely locked eyes with her. His gaze conveyed a sense of childish amusement and a hint of mischief. Zion enjoyed causing chaos and witnessing the world burn, yet he also offered a path to salvation, only to watch it crumble.


    Kara met Zion''s gaze with confidence and unwavering determination. She had seen her own death and was not afraid of impending danger. She knew that whatever threat Zion spoke of would require all her will and strength.


    "Do you really want to know?" Zion asked, his voice tinged with excitement.


    "Yes," Kara affirmed resolutely.


    "A mad god," Zion replied.


    "A GOD?" Kara exclaimed, taken aback by the revelation.


    "No, not ''GOD.'' Weaker, a lesser powerful ''god,''" Zion clarified.


    Kara fell into a thoughtful silence, contemplating what Zion had disclosed. "How powerful is he?"


    Zion leaned forward, resting his head on his clasped hand. "He is a cosmic entity powerful enough to defeat Superman under the blazing yellow sun."


    Kara remained silent, her mind racing. She didn''t know the extent of Superman''s strength, but she was aware that he was considered the most powerful being on Earth. If he even couldn''t defeat this mad god, then they faced a formidable adversary.


    "Then how are we supposed to defeat this god?" Kara asked, her voice laced with uncertainty.


    "I have a plan, a plan to defeat this mad god, a plan that involves..." Zion paused dramatically, "A rubber chicken!"


    *****

 12 - Rubber Chicken

    "Rubber Chicken?"


    Kara was taken aback by Zion''s answer. Zion leaned in even closer, as if revealing a secret only they could understand. His amusement shed, and solemnity took its place.


    "Kara, the rubber chicken is but a symbol of our audacity in the face of cosmic chaos. You see, the mad god''s weakness is laughter, and with the power of humor, we can thwart his nefarious plans."


    "What? Laughter? The power of humor?" Kara asked skeptically. Kara was further confused due to Zion''s seriousness, causing her to doubt that there might be a cosmic weapon that is a rubber chicken. Zion leaned back, adopting an exaggerated pondering pose.


    "The rubber chicken of destiny is a rare artifact, hidden away in the deepest recesses of the city. We must embark on a quest, follow the clues hidden in the most unlikely places, and with hearty chuckles, we shall locate it."


    Kara regarded him with a raised eyebrow, her skepticism surfacing as she tried to discern the truth beneath his confusing words. Kara asked thoughtfully, "Zion, this all sounds... fake. But, is this rubber chicken quest for real, or are you just trying to humor the conversation?"


    Zion, still in his persona, leaned back in his chair, a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. He then said cryptically, "Kara, the truth often wears the mask of absurdity. The rubber chicken may seem like a jest, but sometimes, the most unexpected paths lead to the most vital discoveries."


    Kara''s skepticism lingered as she gazed at Zion, her thoughts caught between perplexity and intrigue.


    "Kid, stop messing with the poor girl!" Someone cut into their conversation. Zion turned to see it was the kind waitress. She had a small amused smile on her lips as she looked at him. "I do love you youngling conversing, but don''t let the food wait," she pointed at their food.


    The burger was cold, and the milkshake was just water at this point. They had ignored the food while conversing, attracting the attention of the kind lady.


    "Sorry, ma''am. It''s just she looked so cute getting all serious that I couldn''t hold myself back from teasing her a bit," Zion smiled sheepishly.


    Kara looked at him as if he had killed her dog, absolutely pissed. She couldn''t believe that she was falling for all the lies this guy was spouting; this was why she never believed in humans, full of lies and deceit.


    Zion shrunk a bit at her glare; he might have taken the joke a bit too far. She was just so serious about all the threats and such. He was never the type to be full serious about things; he would just ''wing it'' as things progressed.


    "Do you want me to reheat it?" The waitress asked.


    "Yes, please," Zion answered.


    The waitress then picked up the plate and left to reheat them. With the waitress''s leave, Kara turned to Zion.


    "Zion, enough with the games. If there''s a real threat, I need to know what it is, and I need to know now." Kara spoke, her tone firm.


    Zion dropped the facade and became earnest. "Kara, I apologize for the theatrics. There is indeed a threat, one that''s beyond the scope of rubber chickens and whimsical quests."


    Kara, her skepticism now replaced by a sense of concern, nodded attentively. "Tell me everything, Zion. I need to know what we are up against and how we can stop it."


    Zion gave her an affirmative nod, "But before that, why don''t we have our meal."


    The waitress placed their heated meal, "Be sure to eat it before it cools down, again."


    "Yes, ma''am," Zion replied.


    "Call me if you need anything else," The waitress said before she walked away.


    "Thank you," Zion voiced.


    Zion then turned to Kara and pointed at her plate. "Why don''t you give it a try?"


    Kara looked at her cheeseburger. The burger was laced with layers of cheese, lettuce, and tomato, all nestled between perfectly toasted buns. With a little bit of expectation, she picked up the burger, examining it with interest, and then took a tentative bite.


    The moment the flavors exploded on her palate, Kara''s eyes widened with surprise and pleasure. It was a revelation, an experience she had never encountered before. The juiciness of the beef patty combined with the creamy cheese, the crunch of fresh lettuce, and the tangy tomato created a symphony of tastes that danced on her super taste buds.


    Zion sat there with a small smile, observing the minute changes in Kara''s face. He too lifted his burger and took a bite.


    "Good, isn''t it?" Zion asked.


    "It is," Kara replied, savoring the taste of the American cheeseburger.


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    "Why don''t you try the milkshake next?" Zion suggested.


    While savoring the cheeseburger''s delightful flavors, she turned her attention to the milkshake that had accompanied her meal. However, to her dismay, it had gone slightly warm during their conversation.


    Kara wanted to enjoy the meal to the fullesta, so she subtly exhaled, activating her freeze breath, directing a controlled stream of cold air onto the milkshake. The moment her icy breath touched the glass, a frosty layer formed on its surface, and the milkshake began to cool rapidly, returning to its refreshing, chilled state.


    Seeing her use her freeze breath, Zion asked, "Superman?"


    "Hmm," Kara took a sip of the now-cooled milkshake, "To use it if the situation needed it. Like saving people from a fire."


    "So like Superman," Zion just commented and lifted his milkshake. "Cool mine, too."


    Kara looked at Zion with a stoic expression at his request.


    "I don''t want to change with a flash of golden light," Zion shrugged and then pointed at his milkshake.


    Kara gave him a stink-eye before using her breath to cool down his milkshake.


    "Thank you."


    Kara didn''t reply and continued her delicious meal, enjoying every bite of it. Zion followed her and enjoyed his meal in comfortable silence.


    ...


    -After 5 minutes-


    Kara looked at her empty plate in dismay; the food was really delicious, and she wanted more.


    "Here," Zion pushed a plate of barbecue bacon burger.


    "Thank you," Kara replied before lifting the burger and examining it.


    This burger was different from the one she had, so she first took a small bite, savoring the different combination of flavors.


    "Enjoy it; we can continue our talk throughout the date. Up next on the list is a ghost movie," Zion stated as he got up. "I will be back after I wash my hands."


    "Hmm," Kara hummed as she enjoyed the tender, juicy patty infused with the rich, tangy barbecue sauce, complemented by the crispy bacon that added a satisfying crunch.


    Zion left her to enjoy the meal. He very much liked to watch Kara enjoy her meal, but he felt like he should let her enjoy her meal alone, savoring the moment of exploration. After all, she deserved it after all the time she had lost.


    {Yo, I am not trying to break Kara''s character. And remember Kara was always enthusiastic and cheery when she was on Krypton. It was Earth that changed her mindset.}


    Zion returned from his trip, "Shall we go watch the new movie?"


    "Okay, but let me also wash my hands," Kara got up to wash her hands.


    "Take your time," Zion replied with a smile.


    Zion paid the bill while he waited for Kara. Kara returned quickly, and both of them walked to the door, which Zion opened for Kara. Zion gave the table a final look before he walked out of the diner.


    "Typical," he muttered under his breath.


    ***


    -After watching the Movie-


    "I wasn''t expecting the demon to tackle the Nun; I mean, it''s a powerful demon, and it chose to fist fight the weak Nun," Zion rambled.


    The ghost movie they watched was underwhelming, to say the least. He was scared during the first half of the movie and hid his face behind a pack of popcorn, but in the last part when the demon materialized, he felt like the demon was not a demon at all.


    "Do demons look like that?" Kara asked.


    "More or less, but most of them are bound to hell and can''t leave," Zion replied.


    "In Krypton, demons were more like symbols of challenges we face in life. They test our strength, our resolve, and our ability to choose the path of goodness," Kara explained the beliefs of Krypton.


    "Rao, the 14 deities, and the 203 demigods. Krypton was a religious planet too, but unlike humans on Earth who say God doesn''t exist, at least your people believed," Zion commented.


    "Yes, we always believed, but it didn''t save us from destruction," Kara''s voice had a tinge of sadness as she remembered her home planet.


    "God doesn''t play dice, Kara," Zion turned to her. "If he does, there will be no free will. With no free will, we are nothing but puppets to Fate."


    "True," Kara agreed.


    "And Krypton''s destruction was nothing but nature taking its course. The planet had its run, and it ended its race. There is no need to be sad about it," Zion replied.


    Zion didn''t want to say that there was a conspiracy behind Krypton''s destruction. He didn''t want Kara to focus on revenge and search for the person responsible. It''s an absolute waste of time.


    "I wish that more of us survived," Kara voiced her wish.


    "There is an infinite version of you in this multiverse; you are never alone. You can just break the dimensional barrier and meet another you," Zion shrugged.


    "But they are not my people; it will never be my home," Kara replied.


    "Understandable," Zion agreed.


    Zion and Kara walked out of the cinema. The sky had turned dark with a red sun sinking on the horizon. The hidden stars peeked through the scattering clouds. A cool breeze washed over them.


    Zion and Kara walked to Zion''s car, parked right outside the cinema.


    "When are you going to talk about the threat?" Kara asked as she strapped on her seatbelt.


    "On our next destination," Zion replied as he started the car.


    The car glided through the city''s bustling streets, the gentle hum of the engine providing a soothing backdrop to their silence. Zion''s car finally reached its destination, Metropolis Bay. Zion parked the car near the sidewalk and disembarked with Kara.


    "The Metropolis Bay, the perfect place to unwind and clear your mind," Zion spoke as a gentle breeze ruffled his hair.


    Zion took in the gentle breeze and the symphony of waves. The ambiance was serene, a stark contrast to the bustling city they had left behind. Zion started walking with Kara beside him, enjoying the momentary peace.


    Zion turned to Kara, his smile sincere. "Kara, the threat that we are about to face is not something you can defeat alone."


    Kara perked up, listening attentively.


    "It will take many champions, and I am here to prepare them, to strengthen them, so they can have an easier battle." Zion finished, not explaining what the threat was.


    "You are not going to tell?" Kara asked.


    "I can''t. Law of cause and effect. The moment I reveal the threat to you, it would cause a ripple that will bring forth tidal waves in time," Zion replied as he looked up at the sky. "The universe always finds a way to balance things, as it always should be. I am not outside of it."


    "Then how are you going to strengthen the champions?" Kara asked.


    "I don''t know yet. I can build different armors to help them. I can teach them knowledge. I can also nurture the young champions. Or I can become their greatest adversary, a villain strong enough to push them past their limits," Zion answered.


    He then turned to Kara, "But if I become their villain, I would also become a wall they could never cross, stunting their growth."


    "You think we can''t defeat you?" Kara asked.


    "No, they will defeat me, but I will create a barrier that will stop them from trusting me, and I really don''t want to fight them. I would rather fight some otherworldly demons than a walking plot armour that they call Superman," Zion cringed.


    All those times the Justice League defeated their villains, it was always a hard-fought battle. They would lose their friends for victory, but it would never be worth the sacrifice. What''s the point of gaining the world when you lose your soul?


    *****

 13 - Karas adventures

    -Metropolis City-


    Today was an exceptionally cloudy day, the kind that cast a heavy shadow over the bustling city. Dark clouds gathered above, looming like an omen of impending turmoil.


    Kara, with a contemplative expression, sat on a skyscraper looking down at the bustling city of Metropolis. She could see the urban chaos unfolding below. Car horns blaring angrily at each other in the chaotic traffic, workers in sharp suits and hurried expressions scurrying to their towering offices, and the cacophonous screams of machinery echoing through the canyons of steel and glass.


    All these urban symphonies reached her ears, but she seemed untouched by the commotion. Her gaze, usually as bright as the morning sun, was now clouded and unfocused, lost in deep contemplation. Her vivid blue eyes mirrored the uncertainty that weighed heavily on her heart. The news of a looming threat had taken root in her thoughts, casting a shadow that even Metropolis''s darkest clouds couldn''t match.


    Zion''s cryptic words didn''t help much either. For all she learned, the threat was something all of them would need to face together to overcome. The cosmic threat didn''t make her heart waver; it only made her more resolute in her decision.


    At the same time, she didn''t know if she could trust Zion. He was just a person she met the other day; she couldn''t completely trust him like Kal-El neither. And with his request to use the Fortress of Solitude, her doubt about him only increased. Yet, when she looked into his eyes as he told her about himself, she could find no deceit.


    She might not be the best at looking through someone''s facade. However, she knew not to trust easily. If the years of imprisonment had taught her something, it was everyone for themselves. Even Barry only saved her because he needed Superman to fight Zod.


    She was grateful to him for saving her, but she also understood the truth, that she only escaped because the world needed a superhero to fight the world-ending crisis. And she fought to protect the world she hated because they were not different from herself, too weak to fight back.


    In the end, she was saved by an unknown entity. The entity with the power to change fate and with unparalleled cosmic power. He asked her to stay here.


    But why?


    She arrived at that question again. She was not special or anything, and there was another Kara who would arrive in the near future. So why was she saved? Did she possess some remarkable ability? For all she knew, she had similar abilities to Superman.


    That was all.


    But Zion, he had the power to fight, to change into another form to escape his reality, and he knew of her past. He was a singularity, an existence that is unique in his own right. He also knew about the entity but refused to reveal any information.


    For now, she could only trust him, but she didn''t know if she should allow him to enter the Fortress of Solitude. The Kryptonian knowledge stored in the Fortress with many other civilizations in the wrong hands could bring unimaginable disaster.


    The fortress gave her a feeling of home that she had missed so much. Brainiac welcomed her after it learned of her Kryptonian heritage, but it was confused as it learned of her identity as her features didn''t match the Kara Zor-El in its database.


    Kal-El, after explaining the situation to Brainiac, showed her around the Fortress. The ship itself was unique, carrying countless artifacts from many civilizations. Its walls were adorned with holographic displays, showcasing the history and culture of the stored worlds. She saw many civilizations bottled in a container with its citizens in suspended animation.


    Kal-El was learning how to release them, but the process would take time. But it was a poignant reminder of the world she had lost, and yet, it also held the promise of discovering her roots and understanding her place in the universe.


    She knew that she was alone in the universe. In time, she would eventually discover her purpose and her home in this universe.


    But for now, she needed to protect this city.


    ***


    -After a few hours of nothing-


    The moon hung low over the city, casting a shimmering silver glow across the tranquil waters of the sea. Kara was gliding across the Metropolis sky far above where the eyes could see, her cape billowing gently with the night breeze.


    The day had gone without a hitch. No accidents, no one trying to kill another person, no one trying to bomb, no robbery, at least for her. Superman was using his free time from protecting Metropolis to help around the world.


    Even though it was inefficient for him to move across the world every time, while Kara, who was free, could do the world-saving thing while Kal-El kept to Metropolis. When Kara asked, he declined, saying some situations might cause diplomatic problems if they involve recklessness.


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    Superman was the only world-saving hero for now, the only one with the power to fight across the world, even if there were diplomatic troubles. (Hey, he is Superman.) Superman represents hope.


    "Help!... Somebody help! Help me, please!!!" A distress shout echoed in the Metropolis night.


    Kara''s super-hearing picked up the distress cry, and without hesitation, she charged in the direction of the cry. Her figure blurred as she sped up to arrive on time to help. The cry led her to the Metropolis docks. The entire place was shrouded in an eerie darkness, bringing fear deep within the human heart. The lampposts'' light flickered, making one think that a monster would attack them the minute the light blinked.


    Kara lowered her altitude, her figure shrouded in the moonlight. She used her X-ray vision to find the source of the cry. But she was confused to find that there was no need for help. All she saw was the empty docks, with some men working their night shifts.


    "Someone Help!... Help! Help!"


    The cry rang again. Kara snapped in the direction. A ship hidden by the cover of the night, not far away from the docks. Kara quickly rushed to help, arriving to see a person trapped beneath a stack of heavy crates. Concern etched across her face, she rushed forward, her super-strength making quick work of the obstacle. But just as she reached out to assist, the seemingly injured person revealed his true identity.


    Kara was taken aback, "What are you?"


    She could now see the person due to the scarce light in the ship. It was no person; it was a machine. The head resembled a metallic skull with sinister, glowing eyes that pierced through the darkness. His chest contained a green glowing stone in a transparent chamber. His arms and legs were cybernetic limbs. His entire body was covered in metallic plating.


    "I am Metallo, little girl. I was aiming for Superman, but you will do for now."


    Metallo, with a sinister laugh, exposed his chest, revealing his deadly Kryptonite Heart that powered him. The green, radioactive glow of the Kryptonite heart bathed Kara in its debilitating energy.


    Kara moved back in alert, the conversation she had with Kal-El replaying in her head.


    "Remember, even though we have unimaginable strength below the Yellow sun, we are still susceptible to some things on this planet. Such as Kryptonite, its radiation causes us immense pain, and it will gradually weaken us the longer we are exposed."


    Kara deduced that the green stone in the cyborg''s chest was the Kryptonite Kal-El spoke of. So, she maintained a distance from it, knowing that she might be weakened if she stayed near.


    Metallo grinned. "That''s right, girl! You''re not so invulnerable now!" Metallo taunted. He had prepared this trap to catch Superman, but his plan attracted the young one. He knew of the second super in Metropolis, he was prepared to deal with them both if it came to be. He had prepared a lethal amount of Kryptonite.


    Kara moved back until her back was against the ship''s guardrails. She could only fly further to avoid Metallo. She was about to fly away, but Metallo wasted no time. He unleashed a powerful blast of Kryptonite energy from his chest, sending Kara hurtling through the air and into the dark waters.


    Kara hit the water with a tremendous splash, the force of the impact causing her to sink beneath the surface. The cold, salty seawater enveloped her, drowning her in the sinking comfort of the darkness.


    Meanwhile, Metallo, his robotic body unfazed by the water, followed Kara into the sea. He descended beneath the surface, his mechanical limbs allowing him to move effortlessly through the water. With a sinister grin, he closed in on the struggling Kara.


    "There''s no escape, girl. Your powers are useless underwater," Metallo taunted. (Hey, don''t ask me how Kara can listen to him underwater. It''s Super-hearing.)


    Kara, still regaining her balance in the water, could feel the whole ocean weighing her down. But she wasn''t feeling suffocated as she thought she would. She could still feel the strength in her limbs. She tried to swim up, but Metallo wasn''t going to give her the chance.


    Metallo extended one of his robotic arms toward Kara, ready to grasp her and sink her to the depths of the sea.


    Kara''s vision slowly cleared, giving her a full view of the ocean as Metallo rushed to finish her off while bathing her in the green Kryptonite''s light. Metallo extended his arm to grasp Kara''s neck. Kara regained her stability, slapped the hand away, and punched the cyborg with all her remaining strength.


    Metallo received the full force of the punch unimpeded. A shockwave exploded on the ocean floor as Metallo shot out of the sea like a rocket, blasting off the surface. Kara, now with a clear mind, noticed the changes in her body.


    She could still feel the strength flowing through her body. She could still hear the vibrations brought from the oceanic beings. She could hear the distant calls of the whales. She could still feel the change of the tectonic plates, the gravity pulling her to the earth. Her senses were still sharp.


    A smile made its way to Kara''s lips as a possibility entered her mind. "You are special, Kara," Zion''s words echoed in the backdrop.


    Kara summoned her strength and kicked off the ocean floor, rocking the Metropolis dock. [BOOM, water splashing] She propelled herself upwards, breaking through the surface of the water. The moonlight illuminated her as she floated above the sea surface.


    She quickly scanned the surroundings for her assailant. She found Metallo crawling out of the broken crater, his jaw shattered. Kara''s figure blurred before she appeared next to Metallo, her fist connecting to his skull in an uppercut, launching him into the air.


    She then appeared in the air before slamming to the ground. Metallo, unable to respond to the onslaught, was thrown around like a ragdoll. Metallo formed a crater as he took his place on the ground. [Boom]


    Kara slowly landed next to the crater, her eyes not leaving Metallo''s metal body.


    "Why... are you not weakened?" Metallo''s voice cracked.


    Kara stood above him without replying, her eyes focused on his Kryptonite heart. Kara crouched, her hand grasped the piece of Kryptonite before pulling it out. Metallo was shocked to see Kara grasping the Kryptonite without showing any signs of pain or any other for that matter.


    Kara checked the glowing rock in her hand, her eyes scanning the Kryptonite. She was checking to see if the rock really did weaken her. Her finding was that it didn''t. The Kryptonite wasn''t affecting her in any way. It was just a glowing rock in her hand.


    Kara then turned to the Metal man. She was thinking about what to do with him.


    *****

 14 - Meeting Barry

    -Central City, 12:30 a.m.-


    [Beep] [Beep] [Alarm]


    The alarm blared through the quiet halls of the Central City Museum, an ear-piercing siren wailed throughout the museum. Startled guards leaped to their feet, awakened to the aftermath of the daring heist at the museum.


    Each guard was dressed in a crisp uniform, their expressions resolute as they reached for their walkie-talkies and flashlights.


    One of the guards, Frank, a burly man with a grizzled beard, was among the first to respond. He had spent years protecting the museum''s treasures and considered them almost like family. His heart raced as he approached the source of the alarm.


    "It''s gone!"


    Frank exclaimed, his voice tinged with disbelief, as he reached the room where the Worthy Pod had been displayed. The empty pedestal glistened under the cold light of the emergency fixtures.


    The other guards quickly gathered, their expressions mirroring Frank''s shock. Among them was Maria, a young woman with a background in art history, who had always been captivated by the Worthy Pod''s mystique. She gasped and muttered, "How could this happen?"


    Jim, another guard known for his levelheadedness, began to relay their situation over the walkie-talkie, his voice steady despite the urgency of the moment. "This is security team alpha. We have a breach in the Worthy Pod exhibit. I repeat, the Pod is missing."


    As the alarms continued to blare, the guards scanned the room for any signs of foul play. Dust motes danced in the air, caught in the eerie red glow, but there was no trace of forced entry or struggle.


    Fear gripped the museum staff as they realized the implication of this theft. The Worthy Pod was no ordinary artifact; it was said to hold immeasurable power, and its absence threatened to disrupt the delicate balance of history and legend.


    With a deep breath, Frank took charge, his grizzled features hardening with resolve. "We need to notify the authorities immediately. But remember, we have the Flash in this city; if anyone can catch the thief and recover the pod, it''s him."


    ***


    In the heart of Central City, Barry Allen, the mild-mannered forensic scientist, sat at his cluttered desk in the police department''s crime lab. The hum of fluorescent lights and rhythmic beeping of machinery surrounded him as he meticulously examined a piece of evidence under a microscope.


    His concentration was broken when the phone on his desk rang insistently. Barry''s hand shot out to answer it, his fingers trembling slightly with anticipation. "Barry Allen," he answered in his usual calm and collected tone.


    On the other end of the line, a frantic voice crackled with urgency. "Barry, it''s Darryl," said the voice of his captain. "We got a problem. The Central City museum has been hit. The Worthy Pod is gone."


    Barry furrowed his brow. The Worthy Pod was an artifact surrounded by myth, a legendary artifact of immeasurable power. He had read about it in the newspapers about the exhibit. "Are you serious, Captain?" Barry replied, his voice tinged with disbelief.


    Captain Frye''s voice was grim, "Yes, Barry. We were just informed. The place is a mess, and the museum staff are in a state of panic. I have already dispatched a pair of detectives; I want you to go collect evidence and see if you could find anything."


    Barry gave a nod, even though his captain could not see it. "I am on my way," he ended the call.


    With a quick movement, Barry left his lab coat behind, revealing the iconic red and gold Flash suit hidden beneath. In an instant, he transformed into the Scarlet Speedster.


    ...


    Barry Allen, as the forensic scientist for the Central City Police Department, arrived at the crime scene. The Central City Museum''s grand entrance lay before him, marked by flashing police lights and hushed voices of officers and museum staff.


    He quickly flashed his badge to gain access and had his way past the security tape that cordoned off the area. The tension inside was palpable as the police interviewed the witnesses, yellow tape surrounding the cleanly cut display case, and the red glow of the alarm.


    Barry wasted no time and donned a pair of latex gloves before getting to work. He carefully examined the cut on the display glass, his sharp eyes scanning for any trace evidence, while his keen mind cataloged every detail.


    As he used a magnifying glass to observe the cut, he found something unusual. The cut on the glass was rough, unlike the precise cut made by a tool. It was as if a dull nail was scratched on the surface at high speed.


    His mind raced even faster than usual, processing the implication of these peculiar markings. It was a telltale sign that they might be dealing with a meta. Barry''s forensic skill kicked into high gear as he checked for fingerprints and took photographs.


    "I want this display case in the lab for further analysis," Barry informed the fellow officers, then turned to the detective interviewing the staff, "Can I see the surveillance footage?"


    The detective gave a nod before taking Barry to the console where a technician was reviewing the video footage. The technician obliged to their request by showing the footage. With the footage displayed on the screen, Barry scrutinized every frame with his lightning-fast perception.


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    The video played. The museum was peaceful until the event happened. The footage showed the Pod inside the display for a second, and next, a hole in the display glass and the Pod missing. The technician slowed down that second until it was playing second by second.


    Barry had already noticed the inconsistency in the video; there was a single second missing in the video. It was when the crime had happened. The whole crime had taken less than a single second. The criminal had the ability to move at super speed, similar to him.


    "Sir," the technician pointed at the screen.


    Barry and the detective focused on the screen, only to see a smoke trail writing,


    [Catch me if you can, Flash! ;)]


    ***


    "I am telling you, this Flash will be the death of me!!!" Captain Frye shouted, "We already had our hands full with the Flash, now we seem to have another one to give us a headache."


    "Captain, please calm down," David said to the captain.


    David sighed as he took the captain out of the crime lab. He returned shortly after. He looked to Barry using the microscope to observe the cut on the display case.


    "Barry, did you find something?" He asked, his tiredness and frustration visible.


    Barry looked up from the microscope, his expression showing that he might have found something, but he was not sure of it.


    "What is it, Barry?"


    "The glass was cut by something organic; that''s all I can say," Barry shared his finding.


    "Don''t tell me it''s one of those freaks," David sighed in frustration.


    "Maybe," Barry replied.


    "Keep working on it," David gave his words and moved on.


    Barry turned to the evidence on his table, his mind working at super speed to put together the clue. He now knew he might be working with a meta like himself.


    ***


    The sun hung low in the Central City sky, casting a warm golden hue across the park. Zion, sitting on a weathered bench, basked in the gentle rays, his eyelids heavy with the promise of an impending yawn. With a soft sigh, he stretched his arms, a quiet yawn escaping his lips.


    Central City Park buzzed with activity around him. People strolled by, absorbed in their daily routines. Zion had decided today to be the day for his encounter with the fastest man alive. A sly grin tugged at the corner of his lips as he contemplated the intriguing encounter ahead.


    He even prepared a little something as a token of appreciation for the Scarlet Speedster.


    As the anticipation grew, Zion decided it was time to make the call. His hand slipped into the pocket of his trousers, retrieving an old-fashioned flip phone. He punched in a number, his fingers moving with ease. It rang just twice before a melodic feminine voice greeted him from the other end.


    "Hello, this is the Central City Police Department. How can I help you?" she asked, her tone polite and professional.


    "Hello, good day to you, ma''am," Zion began, his voice laced with a hint of nervousness, "Can I talk to Barry Allen from the forensics?"


    A moment of hesitation followed before she inquired, "Can I know why?"


    Zion swallowed his nerves and replied, "I am trying to contact him due to work stuff, you know, work, and I need a professional opinion, something like consultation?" Zion really sucked at telling lies, especially when he needed to make it up on the spot.


    Her response was measured, "Well, I will inform him. Please wait for a moment."


    With the call put on hold, Zion''s fingers drummed a soft rhythm on the bench''s weathered wooden rails. His anticipation was palpable as he hummed a melodious tune under his breath while he waited.


    A few moments later, a more masculine voice broke the silence on the line,"Hello?"


    "Hello, am I talking to Barry Allen?" Zion asked, cautiously.


    "Yes, this is Barry Allen, Who is this?" Barry''s voice held a note of curiosity.


    "My name''s Zion," Zion began, his tone casual yet enigmatic, "I might know who took the Worthy Pod from the Central City museum."


    "Really?" Barry''s voice held a tinge of skepticism.


    "Yes, Barry Allen, or should I say the Flash," Zion continued, his tone as light as if he was discussing the weather. "You could say I have it with me here, at Central City Park."


    Silence hung in the air for a moment, a pause that stretched as Zion''s heart skipped a beat. He cleared his throat, "Hello, you there mate?"


    "Yes," Barry answered, causing Zion to visibly relax.


    "Ah, you are still connected. I am waiting at Central City Park," Zion suggested, his tone taking on a subtle hint of urgency.


    "Yes, in a minute," Barry replied before ending the call.


    With the call concluded, Zion reached into a small bag and retrieved a handful of bird snacks. He scattered them around him, attracting the attention of the local pigeons. He leaned back, watching the birds with a sense of anticipation, knowing that soon he would be face to face with the fastest man alive.


    As Zion reclined on the bench, his attention still divided between the pigeons and the approaching rendezvous, a voice interrupted his contemplation.


    "Is it you?"


    The question came from a man with blonde hair, a chiseled jawline, and a clean-shaven face. His eyes held a mix of surprise and curiosity as he looked at Zion and the seemingly unremarkable clay pot resting beside him.


    Zion, fully aware of the man''s identity but amused by the situation, decided to play along with a mischievous glint in his eyes. He straightened up, assuming a theatrical tone, and declared, "Yes, it is I, Zion, here to give you a quest. Do you accept your mission, adventurer?"


    Barry Allen, the Flash, blinked, clearly taken aback by the unexpected encounter and the theatrics. "What?"


    Zion couldn''t help but chuckle at Barry''s bewildered expression. "Never mind. Just a joke. I should have gone with the CW version," he muttered under his breath.


    Barry''s brow furrowed as he tried to make sense of the situation. "What? No, give the Worthy Pot back!" He pointed toward the clay pot beside Zion, his tone more urgent.


    Zion casually picked up the unassuming clay pot and examined it as if it were a mundane object. "Oh, you want the clay pot?" he asked, feigning ignorance as he pointed to it. "Why do you need a mud pot, anyway? It doesn''t even have magic like the myths claim. It''s nothing but a ruse."


    Barry''s skepticism remained, but he couldn''t help but be intrigued by Zion''s nonchalant attitude toward the supposed artifact. "Really?" he asked, raising an eyebrow,


    Zion nodded firmly. "Absolutely. This is just some random piece of pottery that some guy probably made when he was drunk. The whole ''Pot of Power'' legend? It''s nothing more than a silly tale etched on stone. Archaeologists should know better."


    Barry couldn''t help but smile at the absurdity of the situation. It seemed that Central City was always full of surprises, and today was no exception. He reached out to take the clay pot back from Zion, his curiosity satisfied. "Well, you certainly had me going there for a moment. Thanks for the... entertainment."


    Zion, moved with lightning-quick reflexes, had deftly moved just out of Barry''s reach. A playful grin crept across Zion''s face, and he looked at Barry with a twinkle in his eyes.


    "Barry, my guy," Zion began, his voice taking on a challenging tone, "How about we make things a bit more interesting? Instead of handing over this mundane pot, how about a race? You and me. If you win, you get the pot. If I win, well, I get to say I raced the Flash."


    *****


    Peace out. (?~?)©g

 15 - Race

    - Central City Park -


    "You, me, a race to see who''s the fastest?" Zion issued the challenge with a mischievous grin across his face. However, before Barry could say anything, Zion tossed the Worthy Pot into the air. Barry was taken aback by the action but quickly moved to catch the Worthy Pot. He didn''t want a relic to be destroyed before him.


    But when Barry turned to Zion, all he saw was a golden flash of light and the shout, "Accelerate (XLR8)."


    The light stunned him, and the slight daze caused him to lose the Worthy Pot. Now he saw who the thief was; it was an alien, semi-armored velociraptor with a black-blue color theme, a circular object with a golden hourglass symbol on its chest, and black orbs on its legs.


    "See ya, Flash!" The visor of XLR8''s helmet slid down before he rushed out of the park into the city.


    Barry was not lagging behind; he quickly changed into his iconic spandex. He didn''t know how the youngster had changed, but he needed to catch him. He quickly accelerated with incredible speed as he gave chase to the now alien speedster.


    The ordinary citizens in the park only experienced a slight wind trouble before everything returned to normal. They didn''t know the incredible race between two speedsters had started.


    Zion, in the form of XLR8, sprinted through Central City at breakneck speed, weaving through the urban maze of towering skyscrapers and narrow alleyways with uncanny precision. The world around him slowed down to a standstill. Pedestrians only saw a black-blue blur as XLR8 whizzed past them like a fleeting breeze. The wind created by the sheer speed sent hats flying and billboards swaying dangerously.


    Zion accelerated, his rush through the central city caused devastation with each step as with his speed.


    The ground trembled, traffic lights swung wildly, their wires snapping like thread in the gusty wind, the glass windows shattered, and the cars parked along the street were lifted off their wheels, their alarms blaring in protest. A cacophony of car alarms, sirens, and shattering glass filled the air, drowning out the collective gasps of the citizens. Zion''s speed was causing havoc in the city. This was the level of destruction caused by a speedster if they ever ran at full speed inside a city. They would only leave destruction in their wake.


    But Zion wanted to prove something to the citizens and {you, yes you}. That a speedster was capable of causing destruction with each of their steps. He wanted Flash to realize how powerful he is at the start of his hero career. And Zion didn''t have to wait long for the scarlet speedster; it only took a moment for the Flash to catch up to him. In the world of stillness, only a man in red spandex moved at incredible speed, his trademark red costume with a lightning bolt embalmed in it. He quickly caught up with Zion, running side by side, his eyes showing agitation.


    "Stop this; you are destroying the city!" Barry shouted.


    He could see the destruction they were causing. To catch up to this alien speedster, he was using more speed than what he normally used inside a city, and with each step, he broke the pavement, shattered glasses, lifted vehicles, and knocked people out. Even though he never felt any air resistance when he was running, that never meant his speed didn''t cause adverse effects.


    "You understand, Flash. The power that was bestowed upon you." Zion turned to Flash, skating backward. Kinecelerans evolved for quick and precise movement, allowing them to make sharp turns, run horizontally, even run backward. They evolved to run. "You could be stronger, a god among men. Why do you choose to be a servant?"


    "Because great power comes with responsibilities!" Flash closed in on XLR8, extending his hand to grab this alien''s shoulders. But XLR8, with his exceptional reflexes, anticipated the move. He twisted and turned, narrowly avoiding the Flash''s grasp. Zion quickly changed direction and took off. With a burst of speed, Flash again caught up with XLR8.


    The chase continued through Central City, with two speedsters weaving between cars, leaping over obstacles, and darting through narrow alleys. The Flash was relentless, determined to catch his elusive opponent, while XLR8 used his superior agility to stay one step ahead.


    XLR8, now in the lead, showed off his agility by leaping onto the side of a skyscraper and then rebounded off it, propelling himself even faster. The Flash, undeterred, ran up the side of the building, using the structure as a springboard to launch himself toward XLR8. It was a breathtaking display of acrobatics and speed.


    Seeing the Flash closing in, XLR8 executed a sudden spin, creating a miniature tornado around himself. The swirling winds made it difficult for the Flash to maintain his course. However, the Scarlet Speedster responded by creating a vortex of his own, countering XLR8''s move with a gust of wind that dispersed the tornado.


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    With them evenly matched, the race continued through Central City, occasionally leaving shockwaves in their wake. The Flash knew he had to think strategically. He anticipated XLR8''s move, predicting a sudden change in direction. When it came, the Flash mirrored the move flawlessly, gaining ground on his opponent. In a daring maneuver, he stretched his arm forward once more, fingertips grazing XLR8''s shoulder.


    For a split second, it seemed like the Flash had the upper hand. But XLR8, with a burst of speed, retaliated with a spin, his tail snapping like a whip. XLR8''s timing was impeccable, leaving no way for the Flash to avoid it. The tail made contact, delivering a glancing blow that sent the Flash spinning through the air. The Scarlet speedster tumbled and crashed into a nearby car, deforming it in an instant. The car frame was distorted, its windows shattering into a million pieces.


    With the Flash momentarily incapacitated, XLR8 hovered over him, his voice distorted by the whir of his super-speed. "Yes, great power comes with responsibility. But who can stop the fastest man alive if no one can catch him."


    Flash might be the strongest character in the DC universe next to Superman. His speed and versatility allow him to defeat many foes stronger than him, but he never fully realized his full potential in other sub-skills except running through time itself. This is also why Wally West was considered one of the strongest Flashes. His dexterity with the Speed Force actually gave him an advantage, such as creating his suit with pure Speed Force. He had explored many different ways to use the Speed Force.


    Barry grunted as he looked up; he had let his guard down. He felt a crippling pain from his left ribs. He could also feel his bones healing. He looked at the alien who was questioning him after breaking his bones, but he could also feel the underlying curiosity in its voice.


    "I am a  hero because I wanted to help the innocent... I do it because I want to; I don''t want anyone to suffer injustice," Flash answered.


    XLR8''s visor slid up, revealing his face, and Barry could see a smile on its lips. "Well, Flash, are you sure that is what you want to do? Even though you might have to sacrifice everything you cherish to protect others?"


    Barry answered immediately, "Yes."


    Zion got the answer he wanted; he placed the Pot next to Flash. He never needed the pot anyway. He then pointed his clawed hand at Flash''s lightning bolt. "Use your power. Focus on the lightning coursing through your cells, blood, bones; guide them toward your injuries. The lightning not only gave you the ability to run fast; it was more than that. So, use it to accelerate your already accelerated healing."


    Barry looked at the alien, puzzled at how he knew all this. "How do you know this?"


    "Flash, I am from a species that evolved to move at supersonic speeds. Then there you are, who possesses the connection to the force that allows you to run at speeds that we dream of," Zion explained. "I know all about speed. I evolved to run."


    Barry listened to the explanation and decided to try and focus his Speed Force where it hurt. He could feel a rush, and the pain slowly vanished. In a minute, his pain reduced to a bearable level, skipping the months of hospitalization needed for a normal human.


    [Siren sound blaring]


    Zion turned to the expected arrival of the CCPD, ready to apprehend the Speedsters causing havoc. The cars blocked both sides of the road, officers quickly exited their cars and pointed their guns at them.


    Zion was baffled, so he decided to speak. "All of you do know that we could literally catch bullets, right?"


    The officers looked at each other at the question, they were baffled by the scene in front of them. First, they were here to catch the Flash and whatever he was chasing. Second, they never expected to find a velociraptor. Third, they never expected the velociraptor to talk to them.


    "Did the dinosaur just speak?" one of the officers asked his partner.


    "I think so?" his partner replied.


    "Oh, come on, don''t be racist," Zion groaned.


    "S-sorry?" The officer apologized; he wasn''t even sure why he apologized.


    "Apology accepted, officer," Zion nodded, "Now, who is your clan leader? I would like to have a diplomatic relationship with your species."


    "Clan leader?...You mean country leader?. It''s the President; you would have to talk to him," The officer replied, his gun still pointed at XLR8.


    "Okay, I shall speak to him then. Adios, amigos!!!" With that, Zion vanished.


    This left the Flash confused. They just had a race, but before it was completed, he was beaten. Then the guy asked questions. Then he told the police that he was here for diplomatic purposes before vanishing. The whole thing was just confusing. What was the whole purpose of it all? Was it just another bizarre day?


    "Stay down, Flash!!!"


    The officers snapped out of their daze and realized they were fooled. But they quickly gathered themselves and decided to arrest the Flash, who looked to be in not the best of conditions. Flash looked at the officers, his smile wry. He couldn''t believe it; he, who tried to protect the people of this city, was at gunpoint. Flash slowly got up with his hands up in surrender.


    "DO NOT MAKE ANY SUDDEN MOVEMENT!!" the officer shouted before he walked to the Flash to handcuff him. Even though it sounded stupid to cuff someone who could run faster than the fastest missiles, it was what they did.


    "Hi there, Officer," A voice stopped him; it was Zion. "Can I ask which direction to your world leader?"


    Zion asked with a sheepish expression. The officer was dumbstruck. At this point, the poor man wanted to just quit the job. He was trained to catch street criminals, not speak to super-speed dinosaurs. He was already having mental breakdown from all the bazaar things happening in this city for the past few days.


    Zion didn''t care about the officer''s mental stability as he accelerated his speed until everything just froze. He then turned to Flash, who was also looking at him with a smile. Barry was feeling amused due to Zion''s actions. Zion then gestured with his head to go, and Barry gave an acknowledging nod before they both vanished from the crime scene.


    "DAMN THEM!!!" The dumbstruck officer only realized too late that he was played, again. He threw his hat to the ground in frustration and stomped the ground a few times in frustration.


    The police with no criminal to catch were left to clean up the mess. They also finally retrieved the Worthy Pot.


    *****


    Peace out. (?~?)©g

 16 - Nightmare

    Hello! It is I.


    I very much welcome more comments on the chapters, advice and critics, mostly positive ones.


    The comments make me feel the story is alive than all the statistics.


    So, thank you for all your support.


    *****


    "So, he tried to use Kryptonite against you? And you foundd out that you are immune to Kryptonite?" Zion asked.


    Kara just nodded in reply before lifting the piece of Kryptonite she held in her hand.


    Zion looked at the Kryptonite and then at Kara; it didn''t seem to be affecting her. Her complexion remained rosy even though she was gripping the Kryptonite in her hand, no visible pain or anything. He had a theory about why it was not affecting her, but he still needed evidence to prove his theory.


    He then turned to Metallo, the cyborg laid lifeless on his table. After removing his power source, he shut down in few minutes.


    "What do you want me to do with him?" Zion asked, pointing at Metallo.


    "I don''t know," Kara shrugged, "I thought you would know."


    Zion lifted an eyebrow, "You didn''t ask Superman?"


    "No," Kara shook her head, "He will just put him in jail, and I don''t think any jail could hold this guy for long. His strength was comparable to a Kryptonian soldier with low-level battle armor."


    "I know about Metallo," Zion showed a bored expression, "He is one of Sup''s eternal enemies. Name John Corben. Cyborg with a human brain and a mechanical body powered by Kryptonite. He changed into a cyborg after a fatal accident."


    Kara listened attentively, learning about Kal-El''s villains would help her in the future. She would also be prepared to deal with them when the time comes again.


    "What do you want me to do with him?" Zion asked the question again.


    "Can''t you stop him from terrorizing ever again?" Kara asked.


    "You could have just fried his brain for that. When you called in the late hours, I was excited to meet you. But you want me to babysit a villain?" Zion asked, his shoulder hung in a dejected manner.


    Kara just gave him a blank stare, causing Zion to groan before he walked to his workbench.


    Both of them were in the warehouse Zion brought in Metropolis. The equipment and the materials he ordered, using the money borrowed from Batman, had arrived the next day. He immediately set them up to start building the prototype version of the Atomic Engine. He needed to demonstrate it when Batman calls, eventually, after all his investigations. Zion was even sure that Batman might be hanging around the warehouse. He was also just waiting for a nosy prot¨¦g¨¦ to come sniffing around.


    Zion walked around, gathering some tools to work with, and walked back to the cyborg laying dead. Zion placed the tools next to the cyborg. He lifted his left hand and started operating the Omnitrix.


    "Should I use an upgrade to disconnect him internally... or should I use Gray Matter? Brainstorm could be of assistance, but he is not much use in this situation. What about Jury Rigg? He will break the cyborg to build a new one. Should I change into some unexplored forms?"


    Zion muttered to himself before he selected to go with the OG. Zion pressed the side of the Omnitrix, and the faceplate slid back, showing the Omnitrix core. Zion pressed it fast yet softly.


    "Upgrade," With a flash of golden light, Zion turned into a Galvanic Mechamorph.


    He didn''t delay and quickly started his fusion. Metallo''s silver surface quickly became black, and green circuit lines quickly surrounded it. Zion got full control of Metallo''s body within few seconds, unlike the normal hard procedures of combating for control with the cybor''s conscious. He could see that Metallo seemed to be in a state of hibernation after his Kryptonite core was removed to keep him from dying.


    He then quickly disconnected the links to his brain, except for the life support; he formed his head above Metallo''s torso, then he morphed a hand and extended it to Kara.


    "Kryptonite," His synthetic voice asked with mechanical coldness.


    Kara placed the Kryptonite in his hand. Zion quickly pulled back his hand and placed the power source back and connected all the important connections. He then controlled Metallo to stand up. Metallo''s body morphed. His skeleton-like face gained more dimensions as it turned into a menacing face with eerie green glowing eyes. His arms gained a more buff appearance, with green circuit lines covering his whole body.


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    Zion lifted his, Metallo''s hand, and a sharp force blade formed on his elbow using Kryptonite''s energy. He then changed the blade to a blaster, then to a gun, and finally a bazooka. He changed the cyborg''s body into many structures; he could even build a jetpack on his back.


    Kara just watched from the sideline, she waited for Zion to finish his work. But suddenly, Zion pointed his hand at Kara, his hand turning into a gun. The green glow of the muzzle showed it was fully charged with Kryptonite energy.


    Kara looked at Zion''s mechanical form, unfazed. Her eyes remained fixed on Zion.


    Zion pulled the trigger.


    ***


    - LEXCORP - LEX LUTHOR''S OFFICE -


    The spacious office of Lex Luthor, adorned with sleek modern decor, overlooks Metropolis through floor-to-ceiling windows. Luthor sat behind his imposing desk, engrossed in his work. His secretary approached him with steady steps.


    "Sir, we''ve confirmed that there is indeed another superhero in town, and she wears an ''S'' on her chest," she informed, her words calm, showing no sign of haste.


    Luthor raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. He turned and gave his full attention to his secretary. Lex leaned back in his chair. "A female Superman, you say? That''s quite intriguing indeed. Tell me everything we know."


    The secretary tapped her tablet for a minute before retrieving the file on the new superhero and handed it to Luthor. He began to peruse the documents inside.


    His secretary continued as Lex reviewed the documents. "Her identity is still unknown, but they call her ''Supergirl.'' She possesses powers similar to Superman¡ªsuper strength, flight, heat vision, and more. She''s been spotted saving civilians, thwarting criminals, and generally performing acts of heroism."


    Lex Luthor chuckled, "Ah, another Kryptonian. How intriguing. I always knew there would be more of them out there. And her intentions?"


    His secretary hesitated before answering. "From what we''ve gathered, Mr. Luthor, she seems genuinely interested in protecting Metropolis and doing good deeds. She''s gaining quite the following among citizens. But from what we''ve gathered, she is quite unrestrained. She broke bones of criminals if they threatened civilians."


    Lex set the tablet down, his grin fading as he contemplated this new development. Lex Luthor said pensively, "Well, it appears we have a new player on the board, a wild card. Keep a close eye on this ''Supergirl.'' Gather every piece of information we can find. We may just have a use for her in the near future."


    His secretary nodded, understanding the gravity of her task.


    Lex Luthor leaned forward, his eyes fixated on the cityscape beyond, as he contemplated the possibilities brought by this new player.


    ***


    -Zion''s Warehouse -


    Kara looked at Zion, unbothered, her eyes never leaving him.


    Zion had pulled the trigger, firing a beam of condensed Kryptonite energy, but it just brushed past her hair, not cutting a single strand. If it were Superman in her place, he would have moved and punched Zion, as the concentrated beam of Kryptonite energy was as lethal as a bullet to humans.


    Not to Kara, but it would have definitely stung if it had hit.


    Zion lowered his hand and turned to the table. He then ended his fusion, removing himself from Metallo''s body and transforming back.


    "Why didn''t you move?" Zion asked.


    "You didn''t aim at me," Kara gave a short answer.


    Zion nodded, "I disconnected his connections so he won''t be of danger anymore."


    "Okay, then I will leave him to you," Kara said before turning to leave.


    Zion looked at her back but didn''t stop her from leaving. Kara then flew out of the ceiling window and left the building.


    Zion slowly turned to Metallo''s body. This villain, who always got defeated by Superman, could be of use to him. His cybernetics were trash, but he could upgrade them to be more efficient, more lethal.


    His mind raced as he thought of all the upgrades he could give this villain to help him fight Superman.


    ***


    - Kent Farmhouse -


    The sun had set over the tranquil Kent Farm in Smallville. The rustic farmhouse stood tall, bathed in the soft glow of the silver moon. The front door slowly opened, and Kara stepped inside, her face still looking fresh, but tiredness was visible in her eyes.


    Martha Kent, a loving and wise woman in her late 60s, sat in the living room by the fireplace, knitting a scarf. She glanced up as she heard the door close, her eyes lighting up with warmth and recognition.


    "Kara, you''re back. How was your day?" Martha asked with a warm smile.


    "It was good," Kara replied.


    She was still a little awkward around Martha.


    Kara felt grateful toward Martha for giving her a place to stay and sleep. Being in a new place made her a bit awkward at first, but Martha quickly warmed up to her. Her motherly vibe and calm demeanor reminded her a bit of her father and mother. Kara''s mother was always strict with her, and her father doted on her the most.


    "Did you have trouble at work?" Martha asked, clearly picking up on the underlying tired tone in Kara''s voice.


    "No, the day was normal," Kara answered. Normal for a Kryptonian, that is.


    "Okay, go freshen up. I will reheat the dinner," Martha gave Kara a final glance before turning back to her knitting.


    Kara quickly crossed the living room and took the stairs to her room. It was the room the Kents had arranged for her to stay. Kara opened her room, and a fresh scent of flowers wafted into her nose.


    The room didn''t have many things in it as it was quickly arranged for her to stay in. A large enough bed for her to stay comfortably, a closet, and a table with a night lamp next to her bed. The room was empty for the rest of it, and Kara was okay with it.


    Kara walked to her closet and retrieved her folded towel, and walked into her bathroom to get refreshed. A few moments later, Kara walked out in a big white t-shirt with an ''S'' on it and blue shorts with white stripes. The t-shirt was a spare Martha bought when Superman became famous, it was a little reminder of the time when Superman was running around in a t-shirt and jeans.


    Kara then hung her dress carefully in the closet; this was the only reminder left of her world, and looking at the symbol on her chest also reminded her of duty.


    She closed the closet, sealing away her dress and duty. She wanted to relax a bit when she was at home, instead of running around like a certain big boy. He was always in work mode due to him flying around the world to save people.


    Kara then left her room and headed downstairs. She moved to the kitchen to find Martha setting the dinner table. The scent of freshly baked bread and roasted chicken filled the air.


    "Feeling better?" Martha asked, her infectious warm smile on her lips.


    Kara gave a nod, "Yes, much better, Martha. Thank you."


    Martha placed a plate of food in front of Kara, and they sat down together, sharing a meal filled with comfort and love. In this moment, two women found solace in each other''s company.


    *****


    Peace out. (?~?)©g

 17 - Batman and Robin

    *****


    - Gotham -


    Gotham City was cloaked in the darkness of night, its towering skyscrapers casting long shadows over the bustling streets below. High above, perched on a rooftop, was Robin, vigilant as ever. The rooftop offered a perfect vantage point to observe his mentor as he prowled the city below. He had been keeping a watchful eye on Batman, his mentor and partner, for a few days now. At first, he thought that his partner was just getting increasingly stressed, but as he observed more, something was deeply amiss.


    Batman had always been a paragon of control and discipline, but lately, Robin had noticed troubling changes. The Caped Crusader''s actions were growing more erratic, his movements more unpredictable, and his methods more brutal. It was as if a shadow had fallen over his once-unwavering resolve.


    Robin had observed Batman chasing down criminals with a relentless determination that bordered on recklessness. His vigilantism seemed to have taken on a new edge, pushing the boundaries of his code. Gotham''s rogues were no match for the fury that emanated from the Dark Knight.


    But it wasn''t just the intensity of Batman''s crime-fighting that raised red flags for Robin. There were whispers in the underworld, rumors of unusual activities and strange alliances. And then there were Batman''s unexplained visits to Metropolis, a city with its own share of heroes and mysteries.


    With a heavy heart, Robin knew he had to confront Batman about this transformation, and he knew that the time had come to address Batman about his peculiar behavior. With a mixture of concern and determination, he tracked the Caped Crusader to a secluded rooftop where the night''s events had brought him face-to-face with a group of criminals.


    As Batman swiftly subdued the thugs, breaking spirits and bones, Robin seized the moment to approach his mentor. With the darkened skyline as their backdrop, Robin spoke up, his voice laced with unease.


    "Batman," he began, "we need to talk. You''ve been acting strangely lately, and I''ve noticed you making frequent trips to Metropolis. Is there something you''re not telling me?"


    Batman turned to face his young protege, his mask hiding his expression, but his eyes revealed a hint of uncertainty.


    "It''s nothing, Robin," he replied in his deep, gravelly voice, "Just business. Gotham needs me, that''s all."


    Robin wasn''t convinced, and he took a step closer. "I''ve been your partner for a long time now, and I know when something''s bothering you. This isn''t just about Gotham, is it? Please, tell me what''s going on."


    A tense silence hung in the air as Batman considered his response. He knew he couldn''t keep his partner completely in the dark, but the weight of the secret he carried was immense.


    Finally, he spoke, "Robin, there are things I can''t share right now. It''s not about trust; it''s about protecting you."


    Robin''s concern deepened, but he respected Batman''s need for secrecy. He knew that his mentor had his reasons, even if he couldn''t fathom them at the moment. With a nod of acknowledgment, Robin watched as Batman turned away, his cape billowing in the wind as he disappeared into the Gotham night.


    As Batman disappeared into Gotham''s night, Robin was left with a gnawing sense of unease. He couldn''t simply accept Batman''s vague explanation, not when the city''s safety and their partnership were at stake. The relentless pursuit of truth was ingrained in him, just as it was in Batman.


    Determined to uncover the source of Batman''s unease, Robin decided to take matters into his own hands. He knew that his mentor''s secrets were guarded by the high-tech wonders of the Batcave, but that wouldn''t deter him. He had learned from the best, after all.


    Silently, Robin descended from the rooftop and made his way back to Wayne Manor, where the Batcave lay hidden beneath. The entrance was concealed, but Robin knew the security codes and had access to the cavernous underground lair.


    Once inside, he observed that Batman had acquired a new Batcomputer, a sleek and advanced machine that seemed out of place next to the older, perfectly functional one. The oddity of this new addition only fueled Robin''s determination.


    Robin couldn''t resist the urge to investigate. He sat down at the new console and began to search for any clues that could explain Batman''s recent behavior. The computer''s interface was unfamiliar, but Robin''s tech-savvy skills allowed him to navigate it with ease.


    Minutes turned into hours as Robin delved into the digital realm of the Batcomputer, sifting through data and surveillance feeds, trying to piece together the puzzle. He knew he was treading on thin ice, and if Batman were to discover his intrusion, it could jeopardize their partnership.


    Then, something caught his eye¡ªa folder with an enigmatic name buried deep within the system. The folder was encrypted with the highest level of security, a testament to Batman''s caution. It was clear that whatever secrets it held were meant to remain hidden.


    With a sense of trepidation, Robin initiated the decryption process, knowing that he was about to unearth a truth that could change everything. The soft hum of the Batcave''s technology filled the air as he waited for the decryption to finish.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report itThe seconds ticked by like an eternity as Robin anxiously awaited the decryption of the enigmatic folder. The Batcave, bathed in the eerie glow of the Batcomputer''s monitors, seemed to hold its breath alongside him. The folder was named "Project Nightfall," a name that sent shivers down his spine.


    Finally, the encryption yielded, and the folder''s contents were unveiled. What Robin saw on the screen left him stunned. It contained a trove of information, documents, and photographs that seemed to be part of a meticulously kept secret.


    The documents revealed that Batman had been conducting a covert investigation into a new and powerful criminal organization that had recently taken root in Gotham City. The photographs showed the faces of key players, some of whom were prominent figures in the city''s political and business circles.


    But what sent a chill down Robin''s spine was a series of notes and files detailing a plan that involved not only Gotham but also Metropolis. It appeared that Batman had been gathering intelligence on a sinister plot that had the potential to affect both cities on an unprecedented scale.


    Robin''s mind raced as he absorbed the weight of the situation. The darkness that had consumed Batman was not a personal crisis but a response to a grave threat that had pushed him to his limits. The information he had uncovered raised more questions than answers, but one thing was clear¡ªGotham was in danger, and Batman had been keeping the truth hidden to protect Robin and the city.


    Just as Robin was grappling with the enormity of the revelation, the Batcomputer''s alert system pinged. It was a notification that Batman was returning to the Batcave. Panic set in as Robin quickly tried to close the folder and erase any traces of his intrusion. He knew that revealing his discovery now could jeopardize their mission.


    With the folder securely hidden again, Robin returned to the console''s main screen, feigning ignorance as Batman entered the Batcave. The Caped Crusader''s stern visage remained unchanged, but there was a sense of relief in his


    eyes as he looked at Robin.


    "Is everything okay?" Batman asked, his voice measured.


    Robin hesitated for a moment, then replied, "Yeah, Batman, everything''s fine. I was just checking the new Batcomputer. It''s impressive, but I don''t get why you got another one when the old one works fine."


    "Technical issues," Batman gave a short answer.


    With Batman''s return to the Batcave, Robin felt the weight of the truth pressing upon him. He had uncovered a web of secrets that reached far beyond Gotham''s familiar villains. The folder named "Project Nightfall" contained a plan that threatened both their city and Metropolis, a plan that Batman had been silently battling.


    As the Batcomputer''s screens displayed the usual data and surveillance feeds, Robin fought to keep his voice steady.


    "Batman," he began cautiously, "There''s something I need to tell you."


    Batman turned to Robin, his expression still masked by the cowl, but his eyes revealing a flicker of curiosity. "What is it, Robin?"


    With a deep breath, Robin explained, "I couldn''t ignore your strange behavior any longer, so I started digging. I found a folder in the Batcomputer, ''Project Nightfall.'' It''s about this criminal organization and their plans that involve both Gotham and Metropolis."


    A tense silence enveloped the Batcave as Batman absorbed Robin''s revelation. The truth was out, and Robin couldn''t predict how Batman would react. Would he be angry at the intrusion, or would he acknowledge that they needed to confront this threat together?


    After what felt like an eternity, Batman finally spoke, his voice grave. "You shouldn''t have gone through my files, Robin, but I understand why you did. This is bigger than I imagined. However, I want you out of this."


    "Why?"


    Even though Robin felt relief that his mentor finally acknowledged the severity of the situation, he didn''t understand why he wanted him to be out of it. Robin, as his partner of years, had proven his skills more than once.


    "I have something else assigned for you," Batman stated.


    Robin met Batman''s gaze, his attention drawn. "What is it, Batman?"


    Batman turned to the Batcomputer and proceeded to navigate through the interface with a natural ease. Robin walked next to Batman and observed the Batcomputer. Batman opened a folder named "Zion."


    Robin''s curiosity was piqued; he quickly scanned the information in the folder, only to be more confused as he read through. The file was incomplete, but from what he read, this target might be a super-powered villain.


    "He has shown interest in working with us," Batman explained. He then opened the digital blueprint of the ''Atomic Engine.'' "You will meet with him to talk about business as Robin and my adopted son. You will be in contact with him until the project is finished, and I also want you to evaluate him in your own way. This is your mission for the time being."


    *****


    Peace out. (?~?)©g

 18. Robin Meets

    - Metropolis -


    The early morning sun filtered through the window, casting a warm glow on the small, sparsely furnished room.


    "Huu...Huu...Huu...Huu..."


    Zion''s breathing filled the room. His muscles strained as he pressed his body up from the floor, one pushup at a time. Beads of sweat glistened on his forehead as he pushed himself harder.


    With each repetition, his mind grew more focused, his determination unwavering. He had come a long way from the lost, troubled teenager he used to be. Now, he had a purpose, a goal to accomplish. The memories of his many counterparts... No, they were not his counterparts; even though they were similar, they were vastly different from each other. They were not counterparts, but all of them were connected in a hive mind, yet possessing unique personalities. They all share memories that would help the other, memories of who they were and how they could grow stronger in any environment.


    And the memories gained showed that they were each a unique link in a massive chain, connecting across the Omniverse. Some might say his personality had been altered due to the massive memories, but for Zion, it was like a missing piece of the puzzle getting filled.


    The eons of memories gave him much knowledge, and the memories also gave him a guide, a direction to proceed. For now, he was building his body to be a weapon, and many martial arts from the memories had already made him unmatched in hand-to-hand combat, but a sword needed to be sharp for a swordsman to use. So, his self-transformation began. His muscles were worked efficiently to sharpen them faster than any traditional method. His once thin and unattractive body now looked sharp and muscular, with the cut of his abs slowly forming. If you were to look at him, you would think of a thin Bruce Lee, because his puny muscles still needed more mass.


    Just as Zion was about to complete another grueling set of pushups, his phone vibrated on the wooden floor beside him. He rose from the push-up position, grabbed the phone, and answered without checking the caller ID.


    "Hello?"


    "Hey there, it''s me, Dick," a voice came through the phone.


    Zion''s heart skipped a beat. Dick Grayson, or Robin, had called him. Which meant that Batman had finally agreed to his deal. The week-long wait had finally paid off. But he wanted to mess with Robin for his mentor''s delay.


    "Dick who? Sorry, I think you have the wrong number," Zion answered, a mischievous smile creeping up his lips.


    There was a pause on the other end. "Wait, this is Zion''s number, right?"


    "Yes, I am Zion. But who are you?" Zion asked.


    "Zion, it''s Robin. Batman asked me to complete the deal for the project," Robin answered.


    "Sorry, Robin? Batman? I think you''ve got the person wrong," Zion replied; he wanted to keep messing with Robin.


    "No, I''m pretty sure you know who you''re talking to. After all, your smile shows that you''re just messing with me," Robin replied.


    The reply caused Zion to turn and look at his balcony. He could see a teen waving at him from the opposite building, binoculars in his hand. He could feel the smug grin on his lips; Robin had found out where he lived. But was he trying to hide where he lived? No, he welcomed all those who would try to attack him. He would have taught those unfortunate souls a way to self-transformation.


    Zion shed his smile; his voice was serious. "Meet me down in fifteen." He ended the call before moving to freshen up. With a quick bath and change of clothes, Zion was ready to meet Robin. Batman probably sent Robins to keep an eye on him or to test Robin.


    "But I don''t care," Zion muttered as he closed the door to his abode.


    With a quick elevator ride, he was on the ground floor, coming eye to eye with Batman''s protege. Zion quickly analyzed Robin.


    Robin looked to be about 16{Tell me if I got his age wrong}, his raven-black hair meticulously styled. His piercing blue eyes seemed to hold a hint of intensity and determination. He wore a fitted black leather jacket that complemented his athletic build, a pair of new jeans, and a dark gray T-shirt that hinted at his casual yet practical fashion sense. His sneakers were new and seemed to have been bought recently. He had worn a fresh yet casual outfit for their meeting.


    Zion was satisfied that the Boy Wonder didn''t come wearing a full suit. For Zion''s outfit, he wore a baggy white T-shirt and black jeans. His style matched well with his watch; none would find the watch mismatched.


    Zion walked past Robin. "Let''s talk over a meal."


    Robin didn''t reply but followed. Zion got to the park and got into his car, and Robin got into the passenger seat.


    "Nice car," Robin complimented as he got into the car.


    "Thanks," Zion replied as he started the engine.


    "Are you angered that I came without informing?" Robin asked.


    He was instructed to complete the deal with this person, and he couldn''t mess it up. Batman instructed that he complete the deal without troubl. He had only arrived a day ago and watched this person from afar. From all he had learned, the person next to him was lazy but not at the same time. He would do intense workouts, do something in his warehouse for hours, then sleep. He slouched around most days like everything bored him.


    "No, hungry, need food," Zion answered.


    He was feeling hungry after the intense workout. His hunger grew to a bestial level after his shower. He was growing hungrier by the minute. So, he didn''t waste any more time as he drove the car to his now favorite diner for a juicy meal.


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit."Okay," Robin remained silent for the rest of the journey.


    ***


    "AH!... That hits the spot," Zion exclaimed as he rubbed his belly.


    Robin sat opposite Zion, his face blank, revealing no emotions. But he felt a little shocked when he saw Zion chomp down dish after dish. Zion had eaten an ungodly amount of food, the pile of plates next to him a testament to it. He just strolled into Bibbo''s and ordered nearly everything on the menu, then devoured the food like a glutton.


    Zion had a blissful expression as he rubbed his belly, his hunger satisfied. He was feeling hungry because of the technique he was practicing; it was not from this multiversal bubble. He had learned it from his memories. Even though it wouldn''t increase his power substantially, it would increase his metabolism and growth.


    "Can we start our conversation now that you''ve finished eating?" Robin began. "I want to know more about the applications of your tech."


    Zion looked at Robin, his eyes half-closed slothfully. "I already made it clear to your father about it, and I also gave him a blueprint." Zion closed his eyes, feeling sleepy after a good meal. He didn''t want to think of annoying things right now.


    "Yes, I checked the blueprint, but there were some important parts missing," Robin pointed, "How can we trust that you would deliver results or even not go behind our backs, when you hide the details?"


    "Gray... I will call you Gray because calling you ''Dick'' doesn''t sit well. So, Gray, the Atomic Engine is high-level energy technology that could power the whole country without producing any nuclear waste," Zion opened his eyes, getting serious about the issue. "If I just wanted the money, I could sell it to any corporation. What I wanted was assurance that my tech never falls into the wrong hands. Do you know how much destruction an atomic engine the size of 1000 cm3 could cause?... You can just forget about Gotham and it''s surrounding from the face of the planet."


    Robin listened silently; he could say that Zion was being genuine. But he didn''t trust him as Batman''s file clearly stated that he was a good deceiver. At the same time, Robin knew what he said about the destructive power of the engine is true. The amount of energy produced by an Atomic Engine, in theory, could power the whole of the United States for a whole century, depending on its size. This would also revolutionize many other industries that were vey dependent on energy.


    "But we still have to trust you to make it. I want to be sure that this will not bring troubles in the future."


    "Since you are here to make a deal, I am pretty sure Batman accepted my proposal. You pay me a labor fee for building my Atomic engine. No one else''s. You understand?" Zion point; his voice showed he was not going to change his demands. "Or else, you can forget about it; I will just sell it to another company. Maybe Lex Luthor will be interested."


    Robin flinched slightly, very slightly. He knew about Lex, and he didn''t have a good impression of the guy. Lex was arrogant, narcissistic, and selfish. That man was the exact opposite of Bruce. Both were highly intelligent men, but both walked the opposite path. Lex wanted to prove that he was better than anyone while thinking everyone was beneath him.


    "But I don''t like Lex Luthor. He is one of the types I hate the most. Intellectual and cunning, one hard type to deal with, unless you are Superman, of course."


    Zion knew that Batman had already agreed to the deal; he just sent Robin to inform and for some other motive, but he didn''t care. Zion would now have an income from the Wayne Corporation, not including the money he was stealing.


    Robin gave a nod, "Okay, I will inform Batman that you choose to work with us. The materials you need will be provided by Wayne Corporation. So where and when will you make the Atomic Engine?"


    "I can build it in my warehouse, but I''d like to use the devices in the cave to build it," Zion answered.


    "That can be arranged," Robin replied.


    Zion working in the Batcave would enable them to keep an eye on him, reducing the danger factor. Robin also intended on helping Batman with the new thugs that had risen in Gotham, but he needed to keep an eye on this guy.


    "Okay then, the deal is done," With that, Zion got up and extended his hand, "Nice to make your acquaintance."


    "Likewise," Robin responded as he gave a firm handshake.


    "Meet you later, Robin," Zion walked past Robin and quickly exited the diner.


    Robin also got ready to leave as he picked up his jacket, but he felt a hand on his shoulder. Robin slowly turned back to see it was a waiter, and he had a warm smile and a bill on his hand, which he gave it to Robin.


    Robin felt a bad premonition as he took the bill. He quickly opened it to find the amount, only for his eyes to widen slowly. The bill was for $3,000, an exorbitant amount for a normal employee to spend on a meal, but Robin was getting pocket money from Bruce and Bruce would cover his expenses for the meeting, so he paid it and exited the diner.


    Robin scanned the street, but there was no figure of Zion in sight. The guy had dined and dashed. He couldn''t believe that a guy who had tech far more advanced than current, but he dined and dashed. What the hell was wrong with the guy?


    ...


    "Ah, free food always tastes better," Zion grinned as he drove his car.


    *****

 19 - Zions Plan

    Zion happily returned to his warehouse, his fortress. Zion''s car rolled in without a sound, and the shutter closed behind him, cutting him off from the rest of the world.


    Zion got out of the car and looked at his new lab, filled with various machines to the brim. The rest of the machines and materials he ordered had arrived a few days early. Now, he had started his projects in full swing.


    First, he turned around and opened the hood of his car and looked at the 4 cylinder engine he had created using spare parts from the junkyard. But now he had the means to create something more amazing. He wanted to create something similar to the All-Spark and turn his car into a Transformer.


    Think about a cool way it would transform behind you, and you can say, "Mine are bigger." {Talking about guns, begone dirty thoughts.}


    It would take only a moment to design the blueprint with Brainstorm''s processing capabilities, but building it would take too much time. Creating it is also a pain, thinking of all the intricate mechanisms to create gave him headache.


    And he knew a faster way to make it, however, it''s not on Earth. He would need to start an interstellar exploration to find it. The living metal, or Nth metal, is not found on Earth in much quantity; he needed tons of it. Then he needed to use it to make transformium.


    And the required tech, he was planning to steal it from a specific old group of the universe. That conquering species is really stubborn on capturing planets, but their tech had more potential than anything. With their tech, the car would become something more.


    With those thoughts, Zion decided to give a few upgrades to the car for now. He already had the energy supply to make his car into a Transformer.


    Even if it''s a pain, how could he let his child self down? He was going to build the Transformer anyway.


    But before that, he turned to the display hanger where a menacing robot hung. The face looked like a ghostly skull, with a slight greenish metallic shine. Its eyeballs dim, its nose hollow, its naked teeth sharp. Just the face itself would make a grown man cry. Then there was its body, covered in green-black armor with an edgy design. The robot looked like a final boss from Dark Souls. The cyborg was the literal definition of an undead knight. He also equipped a giant sword next to him.


    This cyborg was ''Metallo.''


    Zion has been upgrading his system and looks for a day now; he was taking it slow. Metallo''s heart was upgraded to be more efficient in using green Kryptonite radiation, and he could also harness it to make energy-based weapons. His arms could turn into a cannon, a short blade, and a morning star. He also installed some other surprises.


    The sword was a tech that used Kryptonite energy to create its sharp edge. The sword could cut through concrete like butter. It could also shoot a beam of Kryptonite energy, or an arc of energy. Think of it as a fantasy magic sword, but powered by Kryptonite. The upgraded Metallo could give Superman a run for his money. He had Kryptonite energy blast, shields, and much more. Then there was his sword, which could inflict wounds that won''t heal by normal means. Superman would have a tough fight if he were to fight Metallo now, maybe even lose some limbs. He was planning to use Metallo for something, something that will elevate his status in a certain circle.


    Zion looked at Metallo for a minute before he moved on to a suitcase situated on his work table. Zion moved to look at the suitcase which contained the fabric that he was going to use for his hero costume. The material of the fabric was similar to Batman''s bulletproof cape, flexible yet resilient. He was going to build ''The Tuxedo,'' it was one of his favorite movies. The super-tech suit that could give semi-superpowers to anyone who wore it. Think about putting the suit in combat mode, and it would whoop everyone''s behind. It was one of childhood dreams to own a suit like that, and now he could build one himself. This suit will be stored in the museum in the far future as a legendary suit. The most relative tech to the suit would be Batman Beyond''s suit. Zion took the fabric back into the suitcase; it was time to start making the suit.


    Zion then looked at his Omnitrix; it was time to bring in some workers. Zion quickly moved his right hand and selected his alien. He then immediately pressed the Omnitrix core.


    [Golden Flash]


    "Echo Echo!"


    Zion''s body shrank into that of a white humanoid alien. The alien had green eyes, a speaker-like mouth, and black lines on his chest. Thick black lines outlined his eyes and mouth. His back had a structure that resembled an Mp3 player on his back connected to the earphones covering his ears. Echo Echo didn''t wait and cloned himself into three. The three of them then lifted their hands and pointed at each other accusingly. They narrowed their eyes as they scrutinized each other. The tension rose, and the silence was stifling before all three of them burst out laughing.


    "Let''s stop goofing around."


    They stopped playing around and twisted the Omnitrix on their chest to a 90¡ã, and without a word, they slammed it at the same time. The blinding golden light, and when it died down, there were three Zions standing smiling at each other. They just looked at each other for a second before moving to their sections.


    One turned into Jury Rigg, taking the appearance of a short stereotypical devil with goggles on his head, his tail waving about. He then moved at lightning speed as he arrived near the car and started dismantling it. His creepy laughter filled the lab as he immersed himself in his joy.


    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation."Don''t change its outer appearance!" another Zion said before he transformed into Upgrade.


    Upgrade then possessed the whole production line and turned it into one big cube. The machines were upgraded into something that didn''t exist on Earth in the present. The machine was a crafter; it was used for creating micro parts before Upgrade possessed it. Now, its capabilities were beyond human standards. It could produce 30-century tech in minutes. The final Zion took the suitcase on his table and threw it to the machine, which opened its maws and swallowed it. He was in charge of the suit''s production. The Tuxedo would also have some of his upgrades. The most basic was increased strength and size adjustment.


    "Make it comfortable."


    Zion turned to his desk; it was time to design some stuff. A spaceship, the watchtower, a hyperspace engine, and a warp drive. The spaceship was for his interstellar exploration to find the things he needed and to collect potent DNA samples for the Omnitrix. The watchtower design because the Justice League would need it, and the blueprint would reduce the time it would take to build. Finally, the hyperspace engine and warp drive were to make his travel easy. The warp engine could take him to the end of the universe, but it has a high cooldown time, so in its place will be the Hyperspace engine to take him to a nearby solar system or habitable planet. He would then stay if it was habitable and learn their culture. It would also satisfy his hunger for adventure. Zion didn''t think further and transformed. "Brainstorm!"


    Zion now looked like a roasted crab with his copper shell, his pincer-like hands, with his six legs, added to the appearance of a crab. He wore a silver and black neck brace that held the Omnitrix. Brainstorm then pinched the pen and started to do some mathematical calculations, processing much data and creating new theories from the old. Zion had already memorized all the founding knowledge on Earth, from relativity to quantum mechanics. He was using the present knowledge he acquired to create the mathematical formula that will help him in his interstellar travel. After all, he didn''t want to get teleported into a Black Hole''s horizon; it would mean certain death. Not inside the Black hole due to its massive gravity affecting the space around it. The warp wouldn''t be able to teleport into it, and he would be crushed to death if it did.


    Then you might be asking Why he didn''t turn into Grey Matter to create the needed formulas. The answer is processing power. Cerebrocrustaceans'' brain allowed them to process data at higher speeds. Remember, no matter how much processing power your brain has, if you are dumb, you are dumb. Brainstorm''s hand moved with relative ease as he lined up hundreds of equations on his table and derived new equations, a new formula from each of them. This continued for hours before he stopped at the final equation. The equation looked so simple but it could explode many brains if someone tried to understand it with their limited knowledge. Seeing that he had finished his task, Brainstorm turned to look at the others. Upgrade had finished making the suit and was going through the final checkup.


    Jury Rigg had an evil smile as he sat atop a new car. The car looked a bit different now. Think about a 2016 Ford Mustang turned into a MINI Cooper. This weird design suited the car well, but it would attract too much attention. Brainstorm then watched as Jury Rigg pointed to where he had placed the batbike. The bike was rebuilt too; it retained its previous design but was added with more muscle, as in gears and fittings (The bike from Dark Knight Rises). Brainstorm shook his head before moving toward Upgrade; he wanted to see the Tuxedo. Seeing him approach, Upgrade made a compartment for display and placed the suit in it. Brainstorm gave a nod of satisfaction.


    The Tuxedo''s intricate design was a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The golden linings that adorned the suit were not mere embellishments but a careful composition that told a story. It started at the lapels, where they fanned out like the delicate roots of a golden tree, each line extending and branching in an almost organic, vine-like fashion. As these intricate lines descended, they radiated outward, like a burst of light, creating a mesmerizing contrast with the deep black fabric. The golden threads continued to weave their way down the jacket''s front, resembling a path of stardust leading to an elegant destination. The jacket''s cuffs and pockets featured smaller, yet equally mesmerizing golden accents, showcasing a recurring motif of intertwined veins, leaves, and delicate floral patterns. These embellishments added a touch of whimsical charm to the overall design, making the tuxedo not just a garment but a canvas for a story that was waiting to be told. The tuxedo, tailored to perfection, was a work of art. Its deep black fabric with intricate golden weaving exuded an aura of elegance, while fine golden linings traced every contour, imbuing it with an air of opulence. The shirt underneath was crisp and white, the perfect canvas for the obsidian bowtie that completed the ensemble.


    Brainstorm was in awe of his creation; he took enough time to appreciate the creation before he opened the jacket to see the interior. Unlike the exterior, the interior design was packed with golden circuitry. These circuits were the main component of this suit as they were inlaid with microchips and nano-fiber that would assist him in many ways in the coming future."


    *****

 20 - The Tuxedo

    - Back at Gotham-


    The afternoon glow filtered thorough the stained glass of Wayne manor.


    "How was the meeting, Master Dick?" Alfred Pennyworth, the venerable butler, inquired.


    "Not as well as I expected it to go but he did agree to collaborate with us," Robin, Dick Grayson, recounted as he ran his fingers through his raven black hair.


    Their footsteps echoed through the stately mansion as they made their way to the Batcave. Alfred followed Robin, a step behind as he asked about the meeting. He had been briefed by Bruce about the importance of this meeting, and he was here to check how well it went, as this was one of the meeting Dick attended as both Robin and Bruce''s adopted son. The fact that the other person knew of his identity added to his worry.


    "That''s a promising news, Master Dick" Alfred remarked. "Did you get a sense of their motivation and any potential concern?"


    Robin expression grew more pensive as he responded, "There are concerns about his commitment, him going back on his words, but he was adamant on not letting his tech fall in the wrong hands. He was open to a partnership on mutual benefit, if trust is not opted."


    The venerable butler furrowed his brow, his concern evident. "I see, it is crucial to address the concerns and ensure they understand," Alfred advised. "Did you set up the following meeting to discuss the details?"


    Robin nodded. "He agreed to meeting in the Batcave and he will be working here until he finish building the Atomic engine. Him working here might give us a chance to analyze him and he will be under our observation."


    "It is good, then," Alfred said as the metal door before them slit open. "Master Bruce, has been waiting for your return."


    ***


    - Zion''s fortress -


    "This looks neat!!"


    Zion now wearing his new suit checked himself on the mirror. The intricate golden patterns, the slick and smooth design, and the high quality materials all brought the best of the art. The suit was "''The Tuxedo''". The black fabric laced with intricate golden patterns that spoke of craftsmanship beyond the ordinary.


    "A suit does bring the man out of the boy." Zion remarked.


    The suit was no ordinary attire, the pitch black tuxedo was a high tech battle suit mixed with elegance, concealing an arsenal of cutting-edge technology. The suit fitted perfectly with his body giving him a sharp look. The suit wasn''t only for the good looks, as it was a battle armor on the inside and out.


    The suit embodied both style and substance.


    The suit enhanced his strength, speed, and durability to a superhuman level. The Nano-fibers inlaid in the suit acted as auxiliary muscles, increasing his strength, it also assisted his marksmanship and other accuracy related tasks. The suit was also fully bulletproof, added with kinetic absorption to reduce impact and store charge.


    It could also had a invisibility cloak, allowing him to turn invisible when needed. The suit also pack an advanced stealth mode for covert operations. The suit was inputted with multiple martial art skill, making the wearer a skilled fighter.


    Then their was an arsenal of gadgets and built-in weapons, such as grapples, lasers, and energy shield for offense and defense. There was also some other advance techs that will act like plot armour but who cares?


    Now for the babies. The Kinetic Gloves and anti-gravity shoes. The glove was pitch black with golden patterns near the wrist connecting seamlessly with the suits embroidery. The best part is that the golden patterns would appear as kinetic energy gets absorbed by the suit. The anti-gravity shoes, they look formal, but they were anything but formal, as it had some advanced tech stuffed into it. Think about prowler''s shoes, but smooth and slick instead of edgy.


    Then the final touch of the white shirt, it was more than a shirt as it worked like a neural link connection all the suits functions like a central nerve. All Zion had to do was thing for the suit to do, not the intrusive thought but intended ones. The wearer would become the living extension of the suit.


    Zion combed back his messy hair back to suit the Tuxedo, but they wouldn''t stay and became more messy with each attempt. Zion tried to tame his hair a few more time, however his hair only ended up more messy. Zion stopped his fight and looked at his clones.


    "You guys want to continue working or...?" Zion inquired, attracting the attention of his colleges.


    Upgrade broke the silence, "The guns are finished and I am thinking of building the all spark!" Upgrade replied with determination as he continued working on producing another pair of suits for other needs.


    But Grey Matter, the voice of reason, interjected, "But we don''t have materials for it."


    "We can just order some," Upgrade offered a simple solution.


    Grey Matter, however took their ambition to another level with a proposition. "Since Earth doesn''t have enough material, why don''t we build a Quantum Matter extractor (QME) or Interdimensional Matter Extractor (IME)? It will solve our problem of lack of materials," Grey matter suggested.


    QME, or Quantum Mineral Extractor, utilize quantum superposition to extract minerals from other dimension. By exploiting the principals of quantum superposition, allowing it to exist in multiple dimensions simultaneously, collect minerals, and return with them to our dimension.


    IME, or Interdimensional Mineral Extractor, utilize many advance physics concept, such as string theory and Quantum mechanics, to tap into the multiverse and extract minerals from alternate dimension or universe.


    They both work on different concepts but they work to bring minerals from other dimensions. Both devises would produce a high amount of minerals, enough to turn moon into a city with only few days of operation.


    Zion raised an eyebrow, his practicality shining through, "But both devices require an immense amount of energy to operate. We would need to build a Singularity Energy Generator to support them."


    If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.Singularity Energy Generator, or SEG, is a device that harness power of an artificial singularity for clean and virtually limitless energy production. But if not made correctly it would produce a massive gravitational field enough to form a real singularity, a Black Hole.


    "Do you want to risk destabilizing the entire solar system?" Zion added, his skepticism weighting on the audacious plan.


    "And we can''t built it with Earth''s current technological level," Upgrade pointed the flaw.


    Grey Matte, thinking several step ahead, responded. "But we can reduce the scale of QME and IME so the Atomic engine could support them."


    Zion, realizing the enormity of the task at hand, voice his concers, "That could be a solution, but the output might not meet our production needs. And building both the QME and IME require nearly the same level of advance technology as constructing the SEG."


    "It all boils down to our technology not reaching the required level." Upgrades frustration was palpable.


    Grey Matter''s solution-oriented mind reappeared, "That''s true, but if we could create a Mechanical City, we''d have the means to develop the necessary technology."


    Mechanical City, it is a city sized production line consisting on many different part of it dedicated for different purposes. One of the main components would be the research center that will continue research on automation to come up with many new theory and technology(but Ideas need to be inputed). The other component would be the massive production line that will be able to produce any kind of tech as it will be upgraded with the advancement of technology produced by the research center.


    Zion''s response was grounded in reality, "Unfortunately, we can''t build that on Earth."


    "If only we could terraform a moon similar to Galvan B," Upgrade sighed, dejectedly.


    While upgrade was lamenting, he noticed the sudden silence in the air. He turned his gaze at Gray Matter and Zion, noticing the wide grin on their faces. He felt something irk him as he noticed the insanity raising in their eyes.


    "We could terraform Mars," Grey Matter suggested.


    Zion''s playful banter came forth, "Martians."


    Grey Matter responded with humor, "Heat Blast."


    Zion''s rebuttal was more contemplative, "Genocide."


    Grey Matter remained steadfast, "Habitable."


    "How?" Zion asked.


    To Zion''s question, Grey Matter pointed at Upgrade.


    "It could work," Zion nodded, the seed of the audacious plan taking root.


    Upgrade, still processing this new path they were embarking on, voice his objection on using him, "Hey!"


    But Zion and Grey Matter didn''t care of his objection on using him as they started a new project to terraform a whole planet or at least apart of it. This audacious project of their would be the foundation for something bigger.


    "Why not Terraform Earth''s moon?" Upgrade question, as they now plan on terraforming.


    Grey Matter, however, was quick to quash the idea, dismissing it with a simple, "Not worth the effort."


    "But Mars is?" Upgrade inquired.


    "A planet to own and...Burning Martian," Zion''s answered.


    "Fair enough," Upgrade Conceded.


    With that Upgrade focused on creating the gadgets need for Zion''s hero career.


    Zion wasn''t planning on using the Omnitrix as a hero. It is better to keep it a secret for now and it will divide his identity, not that he had one.


    Zion transformed into Grey Matter, followed by both Grey Matters engaging in a heated debate on how to terraform Mars, or at least a part of it into a Mechanical City. They were also contemplating how to deal with the small amount of Martians of Mars. The near extinct species would become a headache if they wanted trouble with them.


    They were also planning on getting the Burning Martian DNA by combining the DNA of both Green, white, and other color of martians if they were present. Omnitrix could rebuild the Burning martian DNA by reverse engineering. It was one of its new function, the ability to rebuild Bio-Matrix or reverse-simulate to produce an extinct specie''s Bio-Matrix.


    ***


    - Batcave-


    As robin and Alfred entered the Batcave, the metal door slid shut behind them, sealing them in the world of the dark knight. The towering figure of Batman, without his iconic cape and cowl, stood near the Batcomputer, monitoring the ongoing surveillance of Gothan City.


    "Robin, Alfred," Batman''s gravelly voice welcomed them, his stern expression giving away nothing. "How did the meeting go?"


    Robin took a deep breath, a mixture of apprehension and determination in his eyes, "Its had its challenges, but he agreed to collaborate with us, Bruce."


    Batman''s gaze intensified, the weight of responsibility etched onto his every movement, "Promising, but concerns must be addressed."


    Robin continued, "He''s steadfast about keeping his technology out of the wrong hands. We''ve scheduled a follow-up meeting in the Batcave, and he''ll be working here while he constructs the Atomic Engine. This proximity will allow us to closely monitor him."


    Batman nodded, a rare hint of approval in his eyes. "That''s a strategic move, Dick. We need to ensure that the technology remains under our control. He won''t make a move without our knowledge."


    Alfred''s gaze shifted between the two, concern etched into his features. "Master Bruce, we should also be cautious about the other individual''s knowledge of you identities. That knowledge is a double-edged sword."


    Batman acknowledged the gravity of the situation, his voice a rumbled of contemplation. "We will need to take every precaution, Alfred. But for now, we proceed with the plan. Dick, I want you to ensured that every possible security is in place for the upcoming meeting in the Batcave."


    Robins expression was resolute. "Yes, Batman. I was already planning on enhancing the security protocol, and activate perimeter alarms. I also plan on setting up a monitoring system for the Batcave to ensure that nothing goes unnoticed."


    Batman nodded his approval, "Good, we will proceed with the next step of the plan.".


    *****

 21 - Engine Start

    - Zion''s Fortress -


    [Ring! Ring!] [Ring! Ring!]


    The sound of the old ringtone filled the workspace as Zion looked up from the blueprint he was working on. The old relic of the modern age revealed the caller to be his friend Mark''s, prompting Zion to answer it with curiosity.


    "Hello, Mark. How are you doing, mate?" Zion inquired, his voice light with no worries.


    "Zion," Mark answered, his voice typically warm and cheerful, now carrying an unusual weight.


    Zion''s senses sharpened as he sensed something amiss. "What''s going on, Mark?" he asked, his tone laced with unease, drawing the attention of those around.


    Grey Matter and Upgrade stopped what they were doing and turned to Zion. They clearly felt that something was wrong. Zion waved his hand to show it was nothing serious, but his partners just observed him for more details.


    "Zion, did you transfer money to Pastor''s account?" Mark''s question was laden with frustration. The situation was far from ordinary.


    Confusion clouded Zion''s features as he tried to grasp the situation. "What do you mean?" he queried, trying to find the reason.


    "Haaa....," Mark breathed a long sigh, "The Pastor was called by the bank to inform him about a large transaction to the church''s account. A big company had donated ten million dollars to the church. The Pastor was shocked and had inquired if they were really telling the truth. Pastor also called me to check it, and from the details from the bank, it was from Wayne foundation."


    "So, what''s the problem here?" Zion asked, his voice laced with confusion. "It''s just some company donating to a church that runs an orphanage. What''s the big deal? Why are you so serious?"


    Zion couldn''t understand why his friend and father would act so seriously about some donation.


    "The problem is, it is from Wayne Enterprises and Gotham is hundreds of miles away," Mark replied.


    "So?"


    "Don''t you understand?" Mark nearly shouted, the frustration was getting to him. "A big company that''s literally on the horizon sent a donation to a small church that runs a small orphanage, and millions of dollars at that? Don''t you feel that''s fishy?"


    "There is nothing fishy here, Mark. Wayne Enterprises is a big company, and they make billions of dollars in revenue. Ten million is just pocket change, and they frequently donate to orphanages and other charity organizations," Zion explained, offering reassurance.


    But Mark wasn''t easily convinced. "Zion, you do know that with that much money we could renew this whole town?" Mark now felt frustrated with Zion''s lack of understanding of the situation.


    "I know," Zion answered, "And then why did you ask me if it was me who sent the money? The sender is clearly Wayne Foundation."


    "Because why would a big company donate to a no-named orphanage in a small town?" Mark didn''t know how to explain. "It was just an intuition, but I thought that it might have been your work. After all, you did turn into an alien velociraptor."


    "You thought I used my power to send you money. Like how? By robbing banks?" Zion voiced, aggrieved.


    "Maybe," Mark replied, unsure, "I thought you were using your power to do good, you know, like Robin Hood. Taking money from the rich and giving it to the poor.... So, it wasn''t you?"


    "Haaa," Zion sighed and revealed the truth to his friend, "Mark, it was me who donated the money through Wayne Enterprises. It was my share from a project I am working on."


    "So, it was you!!!" Mark''s shouted but voice visibly relaxed.


    "Shut up, dude!!! Can''t you act normal instead of doing detective work? I already told you to stop watching detective movies all the time." Zion shouted at his friends nossy behaviour.


    "And what is Dad thinking about this?" Zion asked after a moment of pause. He wanted to know what his father was thinking.


    "Well," Mark''s regained enthusiasm plummeted, "He was restless the whole day before he came to the possibility that some dark organization was trying to use the orphanage to launder their black money."


    "What!!!" Zion shouted, "How did he even come to that solution?"


    "I don''t know about that, but all I know is that he was planning on confronting all those who have their eyes on the orphanage," Mark replied.


    As Zion heard Mark''s reply, he saw an image of the pastor with a black outer coat and a cross around his neck, looking menacing as he wrapped his hands with a bandage, ready to battle all his enemies. The pastor was ready to preach the unholy soul the path to God.


    "Zion, Zion! Are you there?" Mark called.


    "Y-yes, I am. I was just distracted," Zion shook his head to clear distracting thoughts, "Just calm the pastor down before he does something. Just assure him that it was a donation from my boss after learning about my story."


    Zion quickly made up a story that his dad would believe.


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    "Okay, I will convince him. But you are not doing anything illegal, are you? You do know that we don''t need this much money?" Mark asked, worried for his brother.


    "No, Mark. I am not doing anything that will make the pastor feel ashamed. I am doing good work to improve the world, make it a better place," Zion assured.


    Zion was making the world a better place, but his methods were still questionable. Would he become a tyrant that will conquer the whole world? or a messenger that will preach peace? Even he didn''t know. After all, one of his mottos was, "Just swing it. It will all work in the end."


    "I trust you too, Zion. I will call later, after calming down the pastor," Mark replied.


    Zion smiled, "Later, mate."


    [Beep beep]


    "Haaa... Man, that was something," Zion muttered.


    "What happened?"


    "Is everything okay?"


    Zion turned to his clones'' questions. "Yep, Mark is taking care of it."


    "Okay." With that, they returned to their devices, no longer interested in the subject.


    ***


    Zion turned to what he was planning.


    The blueprint for the ship he was planning to construct, it was for his interstellar explorations. He only knew about the surface-level information about the prime universe from comics, so there were many things he didn''t know about this universe.


    He wanted to explore them. Maybe he will find another Superman on another planet, who knows. But the exploration was for him to learn the laws of this universe and find some stuff he would need in the future.


    That was his plan.


    He would leave this solar system to explore the universe and get things he would need. He would find them, or get them, using any means possible. It was his way of preparing for the future, when he would have completed his duty. When that time came, he would leave a stronger universe behind.


    There was also things he was confused about in this universe.


    He was a bit confused with the technological level of this universe. Earth would have dimension-traveling devices, and they still didn''t become an interstellar civilization. They would fight demons and celestials alike but still not expand.


    Why wait for the 31st century?


    Why are they battling for a planet when they could conquer the whole solar system?


    Why do they not understand that they are nothing but dust in the grand scale of things?


    Why do they not solve all crimes? or world hunger?


    Why does poverty even exist?


    After thinking about it for a while, he came to an answer.


    The Justice League.


    You would think with all these threats the earth would advance leaps and bounds. But, these group of heroes that prevent all world-ending threats made technological development useless. A civilization needs to be unified for them to ascend to an interstellar age. For unity, the whole of humanity should unite under one banner.


    What more than world-ending threats bring all humans under one banner?


    But, with the Justice League present to solve all their problems, they are getting stagnated, idle in their fake peace. This stagnation limits their imagination. Maybe they need a wake-up call for them to rise, a threat so massive that even the Justice League can''t overcome.


    This universe was dark, but it had the potential to be so much better, and they would be better, but that is in the future, not now. We need to solve the suffering now to end the suffering in the future. He would do what Superman with all his powers couldn''t, he would do what Batman with all his wealth couldn''t.


    He would become the force of nature that will make the Earth stronger, at least strong enough to survive the tides of time. To make them stronger, he needs to become a wall that they need to surpass.


    He told Kara that he didn''t want to become Justice League''s enemy, he didn''t want to, but it was a must. They need to evolve to fight for what''s coming, and he was okay with becoming their villain, after all, the Justice League doesn''t have qualms about a villain''s help if the situation demands it.


    So, to build power, he would gather all powers this universe can give. Maybe give the Justice League a breather before letting all hell loose. Not that they would have a calm period, a breather when all hell breaks loose with all multiversal threats unchained.


    He was not essentially needed to make them stronger, but he would strengthen them, as a friend or an enemy.


    "Hmmm... I moved too much out of the subject."


    Zion cleared his throat, clearing his wandering thoughts.


    He turned to look at the spaceship. It looked like any advanced interstellar ship from all those movies. The ship would be equipped with all his advanced tech as it will be a research ship. It will also be equipped with the necessary amount of weapons.


    He would be on the ship, and he was sure he could deal with the threats himself if needed. So, not much thought was given to building a weapons system.


    For now, that was the outline of this ship; it was still in the designing phase.


    "Zion, it''s ready," Grey Matter called.


    Zion changed his focus to the object next to Grey Matter. The Cube looked like a metal cube. A silver, perfectly cut metal cube, nothing more. This was the atomic engine that would produce near-limitless energy. The cube was only slightly taller than Grey Matter, who was standing next to it.


    "So, let''s kick start this baby, yeah?" Zion smiled.


    "Yeee!"


    "Mmm."


    "Atomix!"


    He turned into Atomix, the white giant with gold lines and an hourglass symbol on his chest. His head has a helmet-like visor with the same symbol. He''s tall, muscular, and looks like a sci-fi character brought to life.


    Atomix slowly walked up to the Atomic Engine and clasped it with both his hands. He didn''t have any other power source strong enough to jump-start this engine, but why worry when he could change into a walking atomic reactor.


    With that, Atomic focused his powers in the middle of the device, where many exotic radioactive materials were stored. He was using his atomic fusion powers to start the reaction which this engine would cycle to produce energy. He was also there to make sure it doesn''t destabilize and blow up in his face. The time slowly moved as the atoms collided, breaking into new unstable atoms, producing energy. The reaction was small at first, not even producing the energy needed. But as the time went, the speed of the spontaneous reaction increased tremendously.


    Atomix could feel the temperature around him rise. Grey Matter and Upgrade moved to the back to avoid the heat. Atomix didn''t mind the heat as he held onto the Atomic Engine, guiding its reaction. He didn''t want to blow up Metropolis to kingdom come.


    "Is everything ready, my compatriots?" Atomix''s voice filled the room.


    "Yes, put it in the car," Grey instructed as he moved to a panel connected to the car with many thick wires.


    Atomix took heavy steps as he moved to his car, which looked small compared to before. His fingers were a bit bigger to put the small Atomic engine into the chamber meticulously. But he didn''t need to worry much as the hood dismantled itself, revealing the 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, which opened with the clicking sound of multiple small components.


    The toy engine turned into a chamber with four cylinders poking out. The whole engine looked futuristic with its silver surface glowing with blue circuits. Atomix was about to somehow put the Atomic engine inside the opened compartment when he felt a tug at the Atomic engine from the chamber.


    Feeling the magnetic field from the chamber activating, he slowly let go of the Atomic engine in his hand. The white-hot cube hovered above the chamber for a moment before it slid into the chamber. With the Atomic engine settled in neatly, the chamber closed and morphed back to look like the 4-cylinder engine.


    The hood closed, and the car just stood silent. There was no other light effect or any of that kind. The car just stood still like a rock.

 22 - Meet Again

    - Next Day -


    "Ha, it is time," Zion sighed. He stretched his limbs like a lazy cat, feeling his strained muscles relax. He had been sitting at the workbench for hours on end, creating plans, blueprints, and scheduling his tasks.


    Don''t think of it as an intricate plan; this procrastinator simply scribbled them on his notes, even the plans and blueprints were only half-made.


    Zion turned to his car, which still looked like a normal car even after fitting it with its new power source. The car could now reach speeds of up to 1600 km/h or 1000 mph, nearly four times the speed of sound. The only reason it couldn''t go faster was due to its design. If the engine were transferred to something like the Batmobile (animated version), it could easily go well over Mach 5.


    In short, this guy had packed a nuclear punch into a pen, and it worked.


    "I wonder who my first customer will be," a smile formed on his lips as he thought about it. They would experience a life-and-death in the ride. Perhaps this experience would change many lives for the better, making them cherish life more or encouraging them to return for another rush.


    Zion straddled his bike, which was stolen, as his eyes scanned the packed warehouse. He didn''t want to take the car for this business meeting. His clones continued their work on producing new tech for them to use, and as the terraforming project had started, they were quite busy.


    "It''s better for me to experience this world fully," Zion muttered as he started the bike. He planned to go to Gotham to meet a grumpy bat. He knew that Batman knew about him, but it was better for the grumpy guy to be on his toes. At least he would accept his assistance in the future, knowing that Zion was here to strengthen them.


    "I wonder if he has a Meta-gene. The Omnitrix only scans the Bio-Matrix of fully evolved species. It considers the Meta-gene as a mutation similar to eye color and hair color. Unless the whole genetic makeup changes or meta-humans fully evolve, it wouldn''t consider them as another species," Zion lamented. "What about those Neo-humans and whatnot? Maybe it will consider them as a new species, as they seem to have a whole different genetic makeup, at least different from the Comet."


    Zion contemplated these tricky problems as he rode out of the warehouse. The warehouse''s shutter door closed, sealing the space inside, literally. It was equipped with a prototype space divider that could split space, disconnecting the space inside from the outside. No thief could enter it.


    "Trix, create a new genetic folder. Name it ''New-sapiens'' and store data of the special genome found in humans here. Simulate the genetic evolution and add the final Bio-Matrix to the transformation playlist."


    "Affirmative. New folder has been created. Scanning for special genome. Data processing 0.00001%. Exponential amount of data needed to simulate genetic evolution. Please collect more data."


    "Thank you, Trix," Zion acknowledged.


    Zion then took the highway out of Metropolis to Gotham. He needed to work on a sizable Atomic Engine there and wasn''t planning on using any other form except Upgrade. He needed to keep Batman guessing. He also didn''t need to worry about using the Omnitrix for transformation as he had already activated the [Master Control], but he kept the time out to 10 minutes, adding a little challenge and weakness to keep people off track.


    Zion entered Gotham in a few minutes, accompanied by distant sirens. The police who were monitoring the speed limit only saw a blur pass by, and with their primitive cars, they chased a shadow, not knowing he was already in Gotham. Not to mention, his bike wouldn''t be recorded on camera.


    Zion drove around the outskirts before arriving at Wayne Manor. The Wayne''s castle looked menacing, like a haunted house against the darkened sky. He arrived just in time for Batman to be home after playing the role of a billionaire playboy. The man literally thought of himself as Batman.


    "I can''t believe how much dedication the guy puts into his work," Zion thought. "If it were me, I would have nuked them all together to kingdom come."


    But thinking back to his old days, a time of no purpose, drifting through life like a boat on a river, those days helped form his ego, a soul, yet an empty one. Would he have the will to be something more if he hadn''t gotten the Omnitrix? Or would he have been a shell without a soul?


    Should he even care about the past that had drifted away?


    The answer was a big NO!


    "Hello," Zion spoke into the communication device outside the gate.


    "Hello, how can I help you?" A voice resembling Alfred''s asked.


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    "I am here to meet Bruce. I am Zion, and I have an appointment," Zion said.


    There was a pause for a moment, but the butler''s voice came through. "I was expecting you, Sir Zion."


    "I know, Pennyworth. But do you ''worth the penny''?" Zion tried to joke but only got himself embarrassed.


    "Yes," the butler answered.


    Zion entered through the now-open gates and parked his bike before the entrance.


    The venerable butler was already waiting for him at the door, ready to welcome him. Zion had a slight smile as he extended his hand for a handshake. "Nice meeting you, Alfred."


    "Likewise," Alfred took his hand respectfully. "Master Bruce is waiting for you."


    Zion nodded before following the old butler, while carrying two metallic suitcases. They traversed the clean corridor before arriving at an old clock, which the butler adjusted to reveal a hidden door. This was the entrance to the Batcave.


    Zion followed Alfred through the spiraling staircase. The staircase darkened for a bit before leading to a metal door. The butler operated the panel with natural movements, prompting the metal door to slide open, revealing the Batcave.


    Zion scanned the cave and the things stored in it. Last time, he didn''t have enough time to look through Batman''s collections. The iconic dinosaur stood menacingly, the big penny, a giant Joker card, the Batmobiles, and some other iconic stuff.


    Zion looked at the Batcomputer he had occupied before and noticed another one beside it. Batman had brought another Batcomputer after he had hacked the first one. He also noticed, like how could he not, Batman in his iconic cowl. The Dark Knight was dressed up for his daily patrols.


    "You are here," Batman stated.


    "Yes, I am here," Zion replied, imitating the Dark Knight''s deep voice, causing Batman to glare. Zion just shrugged off Batman''s gaze.


    "So, where do I work?"


    Batman turned without a word and walked to a separate section of the Batcave. This section of the Cave was filled with machinery, and some of the gadgets from Batman''s arsenal were displayed on the walls.


    "You can use the devices here, and if you need something, just ask Alfred; he will get what you need," Batman stated.


    "Neat, you even have a lithography machine," Zion exclaimed as he gazed at the bus-sized machine sitting in the middle


    of the room.


    "When will you be able to finish it?" Batman inquired.


    "Depends on the size. I think you want to light up the whole Gotham, so, a week minimum?" Zion gave a time limit. He was able to build a small-sized Atomic Engine in a day, and that was also with second-rate equipment upgraded by Upgrade. Now, with Batman''s cutting-edge technology and Upgrade''s upgrades, he should be able to build it within 6 hours. But he would need to build a massive chamber for the atomic engine. The Atomic engine produces energy, but the chamber is what converts the energy. It might take a whole day of work to build the chamber. Jury Rigg was able to build it due to his dexterity, but Zion was only planning on using Upgrade with Batman, for now.


    "Okay," Batman replied before he walked away.


    Zion looked at his retreating back. "You do know that I could build you a better suit, right? Even better than that sloppy Bat-Armour of yours."


    "We will talk about that later," Batman replied without turning back.


    "Man, he is grumpy," Zion said before leaning to the silent butler. "Is he always like this?"


    "Yes," he answered. "Then I will leave you to begin your work."


    "Yes," Zion replied before he started moving. Zion scanned the devices around the room before sitting at the work desk and placing his suitcase aside. His first move was to merge the multiple machines into a single entity. Upgrade''s inability to occupy two objects at the same time would limit his production capabilities.


    "Leaving for the night," a voice came from the darkness.


    "Yes," Batman answered as he got into the Batmobile.


    Robin walked out of the shadows, wearing a simple attire, a plain black t-shirt and jeans. He was not going on patrol today, as he was in charge of keeping an eye on Zion.


    Robin knew that Batman was trying to keep him out of his case, but he was not one to take ''no'' for an answer. He also knew that he had been given an important job. This new "ally" would help them in fighting the war against crime and making a better future.


    "Did you find anything about the gang?" Robin questioned.


    "This gang''s reach is more extensive than we initially thought, Robin. They operate beneath the surface. More investigation is needed before we can take them down," Batman replied seriously.


    Robin nodded in agreement. "I will keep a watch on Zion, but we will deal with this gang together."


    "Keep a close eye on him, Robin. I will return with more information. We''ll put a stop to this gang''s activities once and for all."


    "You can count on me, Bruce. Stay safe out there."


    With that, Batman disappeared into the night, leaving Robin in the Batcave to keep his watch on Zion. Robin remained resolute. He quietly slinked through the Batcave, his agile movements keeping him concealed in the shadows. He approached the section where Zion was engrossed in his work, completely aware of Robin''s presence.


    "What is he doing?" Robin muttered to himself.


    Robin watched as Zion looked around before folding the blueprints neatly and keeping them to the side. Then he sneaked out of his work station and made his way toward the Batcomputer, his figure hidden in the darkness, his steps light.


    Robin, suspicious, followed Zion in the shadows, not revealing his presence. He became more alert as Zion easily accessed the old Batcomputer, which was locked with an intricate password that only he, Alfred, and Bruce knew.


    Zion pulled the chair near as he navigated the computer to run some code for him before accessing the intercoms, "Pennyworth, can you bring me some snacks? Preferably spicy. Ah, bring in some for Gray too."


    Zion didn''t need to wait for long before an answer came through.


    "Yes, Sir Zion."


    "Thank you," Zion was grateful for the butler.


    The communication ended.


    "You knew," Robin stepped out of hiding.


    Zion rolled his eyes, "You think you''re sneaky; I can hear all your footsteps a mile away, and I heard Batman leave. I am a hundred percent sure that he would not leave me without anyone keeping an eye on me."


    "Understandable," Robin acknowledged.


    Zion nodded before navigating the supercomputer. The computer screen flashed before displaying an array of surveillance footage. The footage kept changing as it showed many people dressed like thugs moving crates.


    "Wanna have fun," Zion turned to Robin with a smile.

 23 - Robin Vs Nion

    - Batcave -


    "No," Robin rejected resolutely.


    "Ah, come on," Zion groaned.


    "No, we are to be here," Robin was determined not to let Zion run around in his city.


    "You know you want to go help Batman, and we could go beat up these thugs that are transferring weapons for the gangs," Zion pointed. Zion knew that Robin was a snoopy little teen who liked to poke his nose around. Robin was inherently curious and had a high sense of justice.


    "Here, Sir Zion. I have brought the snacks you asked for," the venerable butler returned with the snacks.


    "Thanks, Alfred," both said.


    "You are welcome," the butler returned.


    Zion waited until Alfred was gone before he turned to Robin. "Why don''t you decide after checking out the prototype suit I made?"


    "Suit?" Robin was skeptical.


    "Well, I made it for Batman," Zion spun in his chair. "But I don''t think he would like to use it, but you, my friend, can be my guinea-pig. Bring your uniform, and I will show you what I can do for you."


    Zion got up and walked to his station. He would show how much their rolling around in the mud could be reduced with his upgrades to their armory. Batman might be skeptical about wearing his suit, but he could convince Robin, maybe?


    ...


    Robin watched as Zion disappeared into the darkness of the cave, his steps light. He could see that Zion was well-trained in stealth, and his senses were sharp, sharper than when they first met. He could tell Zion was growing at an exponential rate; even his thin muscles had gained mass.


    He promptly walked to the glass display before removing his suit from the display. He walked back to Zion''s workstation and noticed the guy had changed costume. He was now wearing a black tuxedo with golden engraving on the lapels and cuffs. The suit looked classy yet stylish.


    Zion looked ready to go to a ball rather than to fight crime. He turned, noticing Robin''s arrival. "What do you think? Neat?"


    "That''s what you want to show me?" Robin asked.


    "No," Zion pointed to an opened suitcase next to him, "This is what I wanted to show you."


    Robin looked inside the case to see a neatly folded spandex. He lifted it to see it was fairly lightweight and stretchy. The whole spandex was pitch black and covered up to his neck. It looked more like a streamlined dress swimmers wear than a battle suit.


    "Is this the suit?" Robin asked skeptically.


    "Oh, have a little faith," Zion chided, "Wear it inside your normal suit and wear this mask."


    Zion pulled a domino mask similar to Robin''s from the suitcase and placed it on the table.


    Zion then turned and put his helmet that wrapped around his head, hiding his face fully. The front was fully back with no eye hole to allow vision, and his hair was not covered. [It is a mix of Star-Lord''s mask with Cyberpuck style.]


    Zion placed it on his head, and a clicking sound reverberated inside the cave.


    [Ziiiiiing]


    The helmet lit up with neon light as the lower half extended and connected with his suit. His hair started to wave in the air as a minor force-field generated to protect his head. With the helmet activated, golden runes lit up on the lapels before traveling down the suit. The suit then shrunk to perfectly fit his structure.


    "Neat?" Zion asked in a mechanical voice, altered by his mask. The neon screen created an emoji (¡ö_¡ö).


    Robin, now wearing his suit above the spandex, looked at Zion. "Good."


    He placed the domino mask on his face. The moment the mask settled on his face, the mask activated its basic function.


    [Activating neural-link]


    Robin heard a robotic voice in his head before a pricking sensation came from his whole body. The black spandex tightened around his body, becoming a second skin. The microchips started their integration with his body, making him feel like multiple tiny legs were crawling on him.


    [Neural-link successful]


    [Welcome, Dick Grayson]


    "Wow," Robin exclaimed as he felt new strength coursing through his body.


    "Feels good?" Zion asked, a smug look on his digital face.


    "What was that?" Robin asked, seeing the digital interface.


    "The mask connects your mind to the suit, the same as my helmet. I could only add some basic functions to the mask for now. For now, it has visual analysis, thermal scanning, and other visions, and neural communication," Zion briefed.


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    "What''s with this game-like interface?" Robin asked, seeing his health bar in the corner of his vision.


    "Well, it''s there so you know when you need to retreat. But don''t worry, the suit is bullet and fireproof, with added shock absorption. It''s basically a compressed version of Bat-armor."


    "Okay," Robin replied as he moved around to check his momentum.


    Robin started by walking before he started running around before running out of the section. In the vast expanse of the Batcave, he sprang into action. His movements were fluid, almost balletic, as he leaped and twirled through the air. He could feel the easy in his moment as if he was walking in air.


    Robin grinned, "Let''s see what this suit can do."


    He performed breathtaking acrobatics, somersaulting in the air, spinning with precision, and landing with remarkable grace. The suit responded effortlessly to his command, enhancing his already impressive agility.


    "It''s like an extension of me," Robin muttered to himself.


    Robin''s performance in the Batcave was nothing short of extraordinary. He pushed the suit to its limits, pushing his own boundaries. He executed complex flips, kicks, and spins, making it seem as if the very air obeyed his every wish.


    ...


    Zion walked back to the Batcomputer. The algorithm had already found the hideout of this odd group. It was a nightclub on Gotham''s Crime Alley.


    "Do they really not have any other place, or are they just using this as a warehouse for their weapons?" Zion contemplated.


    "This is awesome!" Robin shouted in the background.


    Zion quickly checked where Batman was. The guy was monitoring some higher-ups who were connected to the gang. So, Batman was far away from the club they were going to hit. Would this attack mess up Batman''s investigation? Absolutely!


    But Zion was not planning to help Batman take down this new gang.


    "Let''s put the suit to the field test, shall we?" Zion asked as he turned around.


    Robin was walking toward him with a smile. The suit gave him a rush he had not experienced.


    "No," Robin rejected.


    "(?O?)" Zion''s mask reflected his shock. "Why?"


    "Because you came to make us a generator, not to play the hero," Robin explained. "You think you can manipulate me, but you need to try harder." Robin revealed a cocky smile, having figured out Zion''s plan.


    "Well, what makes you think you can stop me?" Zion asked, shedding his goofiness.


    "Well, why don''t you try?" Robin accepted the challenge.


    "Oh ho, confident are we?" Zion got up and got into a stance.


    "I am," Robin replied in kind.


    ***


    In the dim light of the Batcomputer, both opponents faced each other, the tension between them palpable.


    With determination in his eyes, Robin moved quickly. He darted toward Zion with remarkable speed, rapidly closing the gap between them. He executed punches, kicks, and flips that seemed almost unbelievable. His movements were a mix of acrobatics and combat finesse. It was as if he defied the laws of physics.


    Zion, in a sleek tuxedo, remained composed. His steps were precise and controlled, a stark contrast to Robin''s whirlwind of motion. He easily blocked Robin''s attacks with calculated moves, matching his opponent''s impressive speed. It was as if he knew Robin''s moves before he made them.


    Their fight was like a dance, a deadly ballet of harmony and elegance. The Batcave, with its gleaming computer terminals and the Batmobile veiled in shadows, became the arena for their electrifying duel. The sounds of their blows and maneuvers echoed off the cave''s walls. It was a breathtaking display of their combat skills.


    Robin''s martial arts skills were a testament to years of relentless training under Batman. His combat style was honed to perfection, a blend of power and finesse. The prototype enhancer suit clung to his skin like a second skin, enhancing his physical abilities beyond human, while his training imbued every movement with purpose.


    However, Zion''s suit was an entirely different beast. A marvel of cutting-edge technology, it granted him a level of advantage that Robin had never encountered before. The suit was equipped with a sophisticated array of sensors and an AI-driven system. It learned from every exchange, analyzing Robin''s movements with unfaltering precision and adapting in real-time. Zion''s movements flowed as effortlessly as Robin''s, but his adaptability was a distinct edge. The suit''s flawless synchronization with his actions made it a formidable adversary.


    Despite the relentless combat, the Batcave was eerily silent, except for their rapid breathing. It was as if the cave itself was watching.


    Zion''s mechanical voice, calm and confident, cut through the silence. "Impressive, Robin. But is that all you got?"


    Robin, determined, moved forward. He knew the battle was not just about physical skill but mental fortitude. The fight had just begun, and he was determined to prove that his spirit was unyielding.


    The fight continued in the dimly lit Batcave, and as the battle progressed, the scales of the battle began to tip. Zion''s suit became more adept at handling Robin''s moves. The suit analyzed every punch, every kick, and every flip, gradually becoming more efficient.


    Robin''s frustration began to show as his strikes met with more resistance. He found himself pushed back, barely avoiding Zion''s well-timed counterattacks. It was evident that Zion''s suit was one step ahead.


    In a moment of realization, Robin muttered to himself, "He or rather the suit is evolving."


    Zion, maintained his eerie calm, capitalizing on his tuxedo''s adaptability.


    As the battle raged on, Robin knew he had to change his approach. It was becoming apparent that he couldn''t rely solely on his martial art training and the suit''s enhanced physical capabilities. This battle demanded more¡ªadaptation and innovation. He couldn''t allow Zion''s tuxedo to predict every move he made.


    With determination in his eyes, he made a split-second decision. He had to disrupt the pattern and keep his adversary guessing.


    Robin unleashed a series of unconventional moves, shifting his tactics dramatically. He incorporated elements of surprise, using the Batcave''s terrain to his advantage. His acrobatics became erratic and unpredictable, making it difficult for Zion''s suit to adapt rapidly. It was as if Robin was throwing a barrage of unexpected challenges at his opponent.


    For the first time in the battle, Zion displayed signs of surprise. His tuxedo struggled to keep up with the rapidly changing dynamics of the fight. Robin''s relentless assault made it challenging for Zion''s technology to predict and counter every move.


    Robin, grinning with newfound confidence, couldn''t help but taunt, "Let''s see how you handle this!"


    The shift in tactics was working in Robin''s favor. He had regained control over the battle. It was a testament to his ability to adapt, a quality instilled in him through years of training under Batman.


    Zion, still cloaked in his tuxedo, maintained his cool composure as he faced the unexpected onslaught. His advanced suit, while still a remarkable piece of technology, couldn''t keep up with the rapid and unorthodox changes in the battle''s tempo.


    As the battle entered a new phase, it became clear that Robin''s determination to outsmart the suit and the rapidly adapting technology of his adversary was on full display.


    Robin continued to press his advantage with relentless unpredictability. But Zion had yet to reveal his deck.


    Zion activated the Combat mode of the suit, accessing the vast repository of martial techniques from this world and many others.


    *****

 24 - Alfred, the menace

    - Batcave -


    [Thud Thud Thud Thud]


    The Batcave buzzed with anticipation as the battle reached a turning point. The sounds of their struggle echoed through the cave, but Zion, in his tuxedo, was resolute.


    Robin''s unpredictability forced Zion to use the suit''s martial arts database. In seconds, the suit unleashed a variety of martial arts techniques, making the fight a showcase of diverse styles. Zion''s counterattacks were well-planned and diverse, taking Robin by surprise. Techniques shifted rapidly, and it was as if Zion had the skills of an entire dojo.


    Robin''s initial confidence gave way to a fierce challenge as he faced the ever-shifting tactics. The complexity of the fight intensified, but his determination remained unshaken.


    As the two circled each other in the dimly lit expanse of the cave, Robin''s thoughts raced. He knew he couldn''t rely solely on his martial arts skills and agility. Zion''s suit''s ever-changing tactics had shown the limits of those abilities.


    He needed a new strategy.


    With a burst of inspiration, Robin recalled one of Batman''s fundamental teachings¡ªuse the environment to your advantage. In the Batcave, he had an unparalleled understanding of the terrain, and he was determined to exploit it.


    As Zion launched a swift Taekwondo kick, Robin seized the opportunity. He dodged the attack and, with incredible speed, used one of the cave''s stalactites as a pivot point. In a whirlwind of motion, he swung around and delivered a powerful spinning kick that sent Zion staggering.


    The sudden shift in the battle''s dynamics caught Zion off guard.


    But his suit''s algorithm prevailed as it used a multitude of martial art techniques and Parkour to keep up with Robin''s relentless attacks. The opponents pushed each other to the limit as they reached a standstill.


    The battle raged on as both were unable to gain an upper hand. Robin used the terrain to his advantage to keep Zion from gaining an upper hand in battle, while Zion''s adaptability struggled to keep up with the ever-changing battlefield.


    With every strike, they demonstrated their dedication and prowess. Zion''s suit was a marvel of technology, and Robin''s spirit was unwavering, driven by the resolve to uphold justice. The battle in the Batcave became a testament to the enduring spirit of a hero who could adapt and triumph against the most formidable challenges.


    ...


    The battle escalated to its zenith. The relentless exchange of blows had pushed both Robin and Zion to the edge. As the tension in the cavernous space reached its peak, a critical moment arrived.


    Zion, his tuxedo still immaculate, drew his weapon. A sleek and lethal-looking firearm was in his hand. The gun looked like a futuristic colt python. The cold black gun gleamed under the dim light of the Batcave. Its barrel had gold neon accents, and its cylinder connected to the barrel. Zion pulled the trigger, and the gun lit up as a golden condensed energy shot toward Robin.


    [bang]


    Robin dodged the bullet with swift evasive maneuvers, reaching for his arsenal with practiced motion. His gloved hand found the familiar shape of a batarang and hurled it with precision toward Zion.


    Zion predicted the trajectory, evading the batarang with minimal movement. What followed after the batarang was a rain of bullets hailing down on Robin. Zion''s gun was firing energy bullets with the same properties as normal bullets.


    Robin executed a series of impressive acrobatic flips, using his cape to deflect incoming bullets. With uncanny precision, he deployed a trio of batarangs in rapid succession, creating a dazzling display of spinning projectiles that forced Zion to take evasive action.


    In response, Zion''s suit analyzed the trajectory of the batarangs and adjusted his movements accordingly. He used the Batcave''s stalactites as cover, leaping between them with astonishing agility. Robin, however, was quick to exploit the environment. He fired a grappling hook, wrapping it around a stalactite, and swung in a wide arc to get a better angle for his next attack.


    [swish swish bang bang] [bang swish] [bang bang bang bang]


    As they exchanged blows, bullets, and batarangs, Robin unleashed a smoke pellet, filling the immediate area with a thick, disorienting haze. The Batcave''s shadows became shrouded, and he used this concealment to disappear from Zion''s view momentarily. Zion, relying on advanced sensors, detected Robin''s movements and fired shots into the smoke, attempting to smoke him out.


    [boom]


    Robin''s response was swift and unexpected. He deployed a miniature flashbang, temporarily blinding Zion''s sensors. In the disorienting brilliance of the explosion, he darted in and out of the smoke, getting in close for a melee strike.


    After Robin closed in for a melee attack, the Batcave witnessed a swift and intense exchange between two combatants.


    Robin delivered a flurry of punches and kicks, each one precise and powerful. Zion, in his tuxedo, responded with evasive maneuvers and counterattacks, all executed with machine-like precision. Their every exchange was a blur of action, leaving afterimages in the dimly lit cave. The Batcave''s ancient stones absorbed the impact of their blows, echoing with the sound of rapid strikes and precision kicks.


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    Amidst their exchange, Zion, in a blur of movement, performed a sweep kick, causing Robin to leap back. Robin retaliated with a batarang. Zion deflected the batarang but lost Robin in the shadows of the cave.


    "You are a good fighter," Robin''s voice echoed in the dark shadows.


    Zion''s sensors quickly picked up Robin''s location. "Playing Batman, I see?"


    "Well, I wasn''t expecting you to push me to my limit," Robin answered as he shifted through the shadows.


    Zion''s gaze followed Robin like an Autobot, "I can''t say the same for you."


    [swish swish] [bang bang]


    Two batarangs fell to the ground. Zion was enjoying their fight; his prototype armor had shown potential. Even though it wasn''t that different from his suit, the prototype was built for high-intensity combat, and from the data he gathered, it was capable. With some upgrades, it should be ready for field testing.


    "Well, gentlemen, I must say, it''s quite the spectacle you''ve put on," Alfred remarked, his voice dripping with dry humor. Alfred, who had been observing from the shadows, stepped into the fray with a touch of sarcasm. "But I do believe this is not what one would typically refer to as ''civilized'' discourse."


    Both combatants froze, their weapons lowered, and their gaze turned to Alfred, who had a wry smile on his face. Robin and Zion exchanged sheepish glances, realizing that their confrontation had escalated far beyond what was appropriate for the confines of the Batcave.


    Alfred''s sarcasm served as a reminder of their breach of decorum.


    "Alfred, we¡ª" Robin began, walking into the light, but Alfred raised a hand to stop him.


    "Save your explanation for another time," Alfred interjected. "Now, kindly put away your toys and cease this childish quarrel before you damage any more of the Batcave."


    Robin and Zion, chastened by Alfred''s remark, holstered their weapons.


    The Batcave, with its ancient stones and towering stalactites, seemed to breathe a sigh of relief as the tension in the chamber dissipated.


    "Sir Zion," Alfred interjected with a stern tone, "Don''t you have your homework to complete?" Alfred pointed out.


    "Ah, yes, yes," Zion nodded vigorously before taking the opportunity to evade Alfred''s watchful gaze. Zion quickly rushed through the Batcave and disappeared into the corner.


    Alfred redirected his gaze from Zion''s back to Robin.


    "Master Dick, wasn''t¡ª"


    "Pennyworth, can I borrow Robin for a moment? I would like to get feedback about the suit," Zion''s face peeked around the corner, his digital visage showing a sheepish expression. (^///^)


    "Yes, Sir Zion," Alfred agreed, "We shall continue our conversation at a later time, Master Dick."


    "O-okay..." Robin, with his head lowered, followed Zion back.


    Alfred''s gaze lingered on Robin until he vanished around the corner.


    ...


    "Man, isn''t he intense," Zion complained as he melted into the chair, still clad in his classy attire.


    "We did mess up the Batcave," Robin replied.


    Zion turned his head, (?_?) giving Robin a meaningful look. His digital visage clearly represented his expression.


    "Why don''t look at me like that? It was you who started the fight," Robin pointed out.


    "Yeah, yeah. All I wanted was to have some fun, party pooper," Zion replied as he removed his helmet.


    Robin was [angry but not enraged] by Zion''s comment. "Oh, I am the party pooper. You wanted to manipulate me into messing up Batman''s plans."


    "Whatever," Zion shrugged and turned to his study. He pulled out the paper he was using to plan and grabbed a notebook, turning to Robin, "Tell me about the suit''s performance."


    "Ha," Robin scoffed, [adding emotion]. "Why should I tell you?"


    Zion looked up at Robin. "It''s my suit, and I am asking, nicely?" Zion emphasized the word ''nicely''.


    Robin looked smug, "You couldn''t even touch me."


    Zion only looked amused, "You really think that was all the Tuxedo could muster? You forgot who made the suit you are wearing."\


    "Even if you made it, I was the one who piloted," Robin replied.


    "Robin, if I wanted to defeat you, all it would have taken is a bullet," Zion removed his revolver from its holster.


    Robin raised an eyebrow, "I can dodge bullets."


    Zion raised the gun and pointed it at Robin. "But not light," He pulled the trigger.


    Anticipating the shot, Robin jumped to the side, but he grunted as he rolled on the floor. A sharp stinging sensation emanated from his abdomen; the bullet had found its mark. There was a hole in his uniform, with a crisp, burning smell emanating from it.


    "You shot!!" Robin shouted.


    "Well, now you know," Zion holstered his revolver.


    "Yep," Robin got up and took the seat opposite Zion.


    Robin winced as he inspected the hole in his uniform. "You certainly made your point," He admitted, his tone a mixture of annoyance and respect. The suit had stopped the bullet, proving its durability, but it still stung.


    Zion leaned back in his chair, still sporting a sly smile. "Always be on your toes, Robin. You don''t know when danger strikes."


    "Alright, let''s talk about the suit''s performance," Robin said, putting their clash behind him for the moment.


    Zion turned his attention to the notebook. "Great. Let''s start with your observations. What did you think about the suit''s agility and mobility."


    Robin considered for a moment. "The agility is impressive, and the mobility is top-notch. It allows for quick, precise movement, but I did sense a delay, a lag, when I tried to perform multiple quick actions. Even a lag of a microsecond could cause serious damage in our line of work."


    Zion quickly noted down Robin''s feedback. "The lag is probably due to the suit not having enough space for me to integrate a whole neural circuit. I will fix that when I build the suit as a full uniform. How was the night-vision feature? Any issues with it?"


    Robin nodded, "It''s useful, but occasionally it gave false readings, which could lead to misjudgments in the field. It should be corrected."


    Zion continued to scribble down the notes, his expression focused. "Alright, noted. Now for the next version, what do you think about wings, like flying."


    Robin contemplated, "It would suit the moniker of Robin, but they should be flexible and durable enough to deflect bullets."


    Zion nodded in agreement, "I can design it to imitate a cape when not in use. What about the communication system, is there any problem with them? And do you think I could upgrade the interface to be more game-like?"


    "I didn''t find any problems, and I didn''t use it in our fight. The interface might need an upgrade. I don''t know how you calculate HP, but I think you should account for other effects like poison and hallucinogens," Robin pointed out the flaws, the unaccountability when the drug only caused them to hallucinate and not harm.


    Zion scribbled some notes, "Yes, I need to account for that. Probably better if I make the mask with an internal air filter. This could also help you survive underwater. The suit will be changed from innerwear to a full combat armor; this will give me enough space to work with. A cape made of more resilient memory cloth could help you turn it into wings, but I would need to add some anti-gravity properties to it. Nth element could work; I will just order some. Then the gadgets, utility belt, and such. Need to compress the compartments and reduce the size of the gadgets; micro mechanics could do the trick for now. I also need to make the design look menacing enough with its functionality high¡ª"


    Zion kept muttering all the upgrades he could do, leaving Robin taken aback.


    *****

 25 - Reasons

    - Batcave -


    [Engine roar]


    A sleek black car rolled into the sparsely lit Batcave, stopping when it arrived at the platform.


    [click] [shut]


    The door opened with a click, and Batman exited his Batmobile, only to notice clear signs of battle. For clear definition, there were metal frames with dents similar to bullet marks, the bird-a-rangs sprawled around the floor, and a clear mark of a smoke bomb explosion to go by.


    Batman became alert, his eyes scanning the Batcave for any hidden assailant. His hands naturally reached for his belt; his fingers traced the cold metal of his trusty Bat-a-rang.


    "Seems you are back, Master Bruce." Alfred''s voice crackled through the intercom. Batman relaxed a bit, his fingers still tracing the Batarang. "What happened here, Alfred?"


    "Well, Master Dick''s playdate became a bit intense," Alfred replied with his usual sarcasm. "The children are in the lab."


    "Okay." The communication ended, and Batman moved in the direction of the section he had arranged for Zion. His footsteps were silent as he approached; the hum of the intricate machines filled the section.


    He noticed Robin standing guard while Zion was working on the machines. Batman stood there silently for a moment, observing, before he made his presence known. Robin, quick to notice him, approached.


    "Finished the patrol? Did you find something?" Robin asked.


    "What happened?" Batman asked, cutting straight to the point.


    "That," Robin lowered his head, unable to meet his mentor''s gaze.


    "We tested my combat suit, got a bit out of hand," Zion answered without turning away from his work.


    Batman turned to Robin, his gaze demanding answers.


    "Zion gave me a combat suit to wear, to test it. Then he wanted to go out to stop the thugs from transferring weapons, but I stopped him, and we fought," Robin spilled everything.


    "Dude!!" Zion shot a betrayed look at Robin.


    Batman''s gaze turned to Zion.


    "What? I wanted to have some fun. It''s not like you could stop all the crimes in Gotham alone. I could kick some butt and teach about self-transformation to those crooks." Zion replied, returning to work. "And I don''t like to work all the time. It''s no fun, especially when I am not trying to do something a bit too crazy."


    Batman listened to Zion''s rambling, noting a few alerting keywords. A guy with advanced knowledge trying to do something crazy won''t end up good for anyone, but at the same time, he also noticed that Zion wanted to be a hero, on the side of good.


    Intrigued, Batman asked the questions that had been haunting him. "What is your reason?"


    "Reason?" Zion turned from his work, his head tilted in confusion.


    "For being here, to help. With your knowledge, you could gain more by working with the government or by establishing cooperation yourself," Batman elaborated.


    "I don''t like working under anyone, and I really am not suited for any kind of management. Moreover, it is a waste of time that could be used elsewhere," Zion replied. "And I don''t like humans and their wars and territorial conflicts over a small piece of land they can''t even take care of. What would happen if I give them my tech?"


    Zion turned to his work, continuing, "Humans as a species do not understand the magnitude of things in this galaxy, let''s not talk about the universe. Humans think they are at the center of the universe; they are not. They are nothing but dust on a cosmic scale. Even a lone Kryptonian could end this whole solar system if he wanted, and you wouldn''t be able to stop it.


    My form is already a testament that I am literally capable of bringing your civilization to its knees. All I need to do is hack all the databases of all countries and put them on the internet for all to see, the countries would tear themselves apart. Or I could get my hands on nukes that will turn Earth into a radioactive wasteland.


    But humans also represent something else.


    Something more than death and destruction, to love and be kind. Destruction is easy, and creation is hard, but kindness is rare. I want to believe we could be more than some parasites; we could be better. Humans are already awakening their potential for destruction, but that power could be used somewhere else, somewhere it would promote growth and peace.


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    Think about a meta-human, those powerhouses popping up now and then, with the ability to control plants and help them grow. They could single-handedly feed a community, but do you see anyone do it? No!


    If we wanted, we could solve the world hunger problem in a decade, but we don''t even try with all this power in our hands. Even with all your money, you can''t solve that problem. It''s how things are. Humans need something bigger than them to be better. They need to face extinction to grow as a species. Unity is not forged in peace but in the hellfire of war."


    Zion finished.


    "I understand your point, but its the death of millions that will bring peace. Is it really the right thing to do?" Robin voiced his thought.


    "Oh, then what about the wars fought? What about the people dying due to accidents and illness? It''s just nature. Sacrifices are needed for the greater good. Think about it; if you kill all the criminals you put in jail, Gotham would be clean."


    "Killing doesn''t solve the problem," Batman interjected.


    "Don''t preach to me the not killing code like you taught your prot¨¦g¨¦. I am more than that. When a scale as big as the universe is considered, do you think the death of an ant would matter? The death of the criminals is the same, but some of them need redemption. And a chance, I would give."


    "If you want to kill, why try to be a hero?" That was Batman''s question; Zion could do all he said, but he hadn''t.


    "I am trying to be a hero to see if this is worth my time. If I could see past what they have done and relate with them, which I can''t. If I feel like they do need a redemption arc, I would give them a way out; if they don''t use it, they can regret their life choices in hell. But some need to go, again, the likes of Joker. He is a waste of space who only brings chaos and destruction, and let me tell you, you don''t want to meet me on my bad day.


    It would mean certain death, and I really wouldn''t mind blowing up the whole planet if the whole species is like that. What''s the use of a planet full of waste? I would rather spend my time productively somewhere else. Maybe I will groom a new species to interstellar age. It would take centuries, but I can live that long. So, Batman, what I need is not a reason to save people but a reason to not end your whole race. So, should I play hero and see if this planet is worth saving?"


    Zion told all this in a calm manner. The plans of destruction spewed with no change in tone showed that he was confident, he could bring this planet to its knees, and humans as a species would not have the power to fight.


    Batman and Robin stayed silent. Batman was thinking about the things Zion said, while Robin was dumbstruck. He couldn''t believe the jolly guy was a doomsday theorist. He finally understood why Batman was dealing with Zion so cautiously. This guy could blow them up anytime he wanted.


    After a long time, Batman spoke. "Robin, leave us alone."


    Robin wanted to stay but shut up after seeing Batman''s seriousness; he couldn''t do anything but leave. Batman waited for Robin to leave and only talked when he was sure Robin wouldn''t hear them.


    "What are you?" Batman asked. "I know that you are an anomaly, but what is your reason for existence?"


    "What am I?" Zion turned back. "I am just a human-"


    "What about the threat you spoke of?" Batman asked, his eyes narrowing to a slit.


    Zion showed a surprised expression, as if he never expected Batman to know. {I should say his acting skills have improved, a bit, just a little bit.} But Batman saw through his crude acting instantly; the years of skill that he had gathered were wasted.


    "I know that you know that I know," Batman said. [Just me messing around]


    "You know that I know that you know?" Zion repeated.


    "Yes," Batman replied, resolute. "Okay, what do you want?" Zion leaned back, taking a professional pose as if he was dealing with a business proposal.


    "I want to know about the threats that will target Earth and about this ''Mad god'' you talked about?" Batman demanded.


    "Man, you got no chill. How can you eavesdrop on a person''s date? How would you feel if I did that when you are on a date with Selena?" Zion asked, but his demeanor remained calm.


    Batman wasn''t taken aback; he had already deduced that Zion might know more than he let on. He had already theorized that Zion might be an existence that he could not fully understand, but he would prepare.


    "You can''t beat me," Zion replied, guessing what the Dark Knight might be thinking.


    "I would prepare, rather than compromise my mission," Batman replied, his determination shining through.


    Zion raised a brow before relaxing into a casual manner. "You will know of the threats in a few stellar cycles, and don''t worry, I will be there to save you when things go down wrong."


    Batman perked up when he heard that the threat was already here. "What kind of threat?" He asked with trepidation in his heart.


    "Invasion," Zion said nonchalantly, like he was talking about the weather.


    Batman froze, but it was harder to notice with him staying still. He had been dealing with crocodiles in the sewers for the past years but was not expecting an alien invasion so soon, {Yes, you heard it right}; he had already hypothesized about it since the attacked on Metropolis. And with Superman flying around, it wasn''t a hard guess.


    "Size?" Batman asked.


    "Few thousand," Zion answered.


    "Powers?"


    "Sub-Superman level."


    "Weaknesses?"


    "High frequency sound."


    "Hm," Batman grunted; it was his way of saying thank you or okay. {I think.} He then turned and left without a word; he had gotten enough details to at least create a contingency. He now needed to prepare weapons that would work on these invaders and a bunch of other things.


    Zion watched as Batman leave before he turned back to complete his work, but as he turned back, a mischievous grin replaced his calm demeanor. He was really enjoying messing with the Dark Knight. How could he not when he had the opportunity to mess with Batman? No one in the Justice League could, or get to, mess with Batman. Only he could do that, for a limited time.


    Now that he had rolled the die, he could only wait for the cause to take effect. Maybe he would roll a twenty as a lucky shot, or might be a resounding one. Well, he could only watch for now.


    "I need to finish building it. Need to go to Mars. Should I contact Manhunter? Would he be at least grateful if I did? Maybe I shouldn''t?" Zion muttered back before focusing on his work.


    Zion stayed in his lab for the next seven days building the Atomic engine to power up Gotham. He only transformed into Upgrade during his work and refrained from changing into others. He didn''t demand to go out to fight crime, nor was he let to. Batman feared that Zion would try to kill a crook just because.


    And after working hard for a week, the Atomic Engine was ready.

 26 - Day off

    - Metropolis -


    As the title suggests, it''s a day off. Zion found himself back in Metropolis, seeking some much-needed downtime. He had toiled tirelessly in the Batcave for the past seven days, and a break was imperative before activating the potentially explosive device. Currently, he yearned to unwind, contemplating life at a caf¨¦, sipping coffee, and indulging in pastries.


    [Breaking News!]


    [Wayne Enterprises Revolutionizes Gotham''s Energy Future!]


    [In today''s announcement, Wayne Enterprises, spearheaded by the enigmatic billionaire and philanthropist Bruce Wayne, unveiled a groundbreaking breakthrough in Energy Technology!]


    [Bruce Wayne, Wayne Enterprises'' CEO, showcased the company''s cutting-edge technology at a press conference held today!]


    [Bruce Wayne revealed that this innovative energy system held the potential to transform Gotham''s power supply.]


    ["This technology signifies a significant leap in clean and sustainable energy," Wayne declared with unwavering confidence. "Our new energy system will not only power Gotham for years to come but will do so with minimal environmental impact. We stand on the brink of a genuine revolution in the energy industry."]


    "Looks like Wayne''s are taking over the energy industry," remarked a feminine voice from across the table.


    "Good morning, Miss Lane," Zion greeted, recognizing the woman before him.


    "Good morning, Zion," Lois greeted back as she settled opposite him. She had come for her morning coffee, not expecting to find Zion there. Deciding to greet him, she noticed he appeared drained and lost in thought, much like when they first met.


    "Not scooping for stories, Miss Lois? Wayne''s seem poised to revolutionize the energy industry, judging by the look of it," Zion commented.


    Zion knew Lois wouldn''t pass up a good scoop. She could sniff out a story from a mile away, possessing excellent detective skills but notably lacking in self-preservation instincts.


    Lois shook her head. "Not interested, and Clark will take care of it."


    But Zion could see the gears turning in her head. "Clark, huh? The investigative journalist who put that big boss in jail? Sorry, I''m bad with names I don''t want to remember," Zion scratched his head sheepishly.


    "Yes, it''s him," Lois chuckled. "So, what brings you back to Metropolis? You vanished after your meeting with Superman," Lois inquired.


    "Been busy with work," Zion replied, his tired expression bearing witness. "Building a fancy generator for someone."


    "A generator?" Lois looked at him, then turned to the news, then back at him, "Can you tell me about this fancy ''Generator'' of yours?"


    Zion could see Lois connecting the dots¡ªfrom his alien form to the news of a new energy source. It wasn''t difficult, given he was openly revealing his involvement in this new energy tech.


    "An advanced nuclear reactor that runs on nuclear waste but produces energy without any waste material or radiation," Zion explained.


    Lois squinted her eyes and asked, "Did you build it for someone named Bruce Wayne?"


    "Yes! How did you know?" Zion asked, feigning surprise.


    Lois just smiled, clearly seeing through his act. "You''re not fooling anyone with your acting skills, you know that, right?"


    "Well, I did build it for him, and the big man paid me a huge sum of money," Zion admitted.


    Seizing the opportunity to boast about his accomplishments, Zion had already called Mark in the morning to share the news. He ranted on for hours, asserting his superiority over Mark, who, predictably, didn''t acknowledge it.


    Lois leaned forward and whispered, "Does he know about your powers?"


    "Yes, he does," Zion reassured Lois. "Don''t worry; he''s trustworthy, and he can''t build it even if he wanted to. I never gave him the correct blueprint."


    "That''s okay, but what about your watch?" Lois pointed at his wrist.


    Her question was clear¡ªdoes Bruce Wayne know what your watch does and its applications? Does he know about your watch''s function, both as an ark and a weapon?


    Zion shook his head. "NO, he only knows that I can change forms."


    "Okay, does ''He'' know about this?" Lois asked after some thought.


    "No, I don''t think he knows. I haven''t really had a talk with ''Him.'' But I am here in Metropolis to meet with Kara," Zion responded.


    He hadn''t met Superman after obtaining the Kryptonian Bio-Matrix; he didn''t have the need to, having done nothing to warrant the Big Blue''s attention. However, he was in Metropolis to meet Kara, seeking assistance with some heavy lifting.


    "Can I ask why?" Lois queried, an understanding smile forming on her lips.


    "For the second date," Zion replied with a grin.


    "So, planning to become a super couple?" Lois asked, enthusiasm oozing from her.


    "Maybe," Zion shrugged. "She was the first woman I felt attracted to, if that even explains anything. And I am all in for a strong woman, no need for cheesy romance," Zion answered without much thought.


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    "Hmm," Lois nodded in understanding but teased, "But be careful not to get your heart broken. She seems like a strong girl, and winning her heart would be harder than any Earth woman."


    "Well, I hope to impress," Zion smiled.


    Lois smiled but got up to leave. "Good luck, but I''ve got to go. See you later, Zion."


    "It was nice to see you too, and remember, if you want a fast taxi, you can call me!" Zion said.


    "Thanks, Zion," Lois left the cafe.


    Zion sat there for a few more moments, keeping an eye on the news for some fool to do something and attract Kara''s attention. And someone did! Zion quickly got up from his chair and rushed out of the shop, beelining toward the nearest alley. With a flash of light, a blur exited the alley, quickly taking flight.


    ...


    Kara frowned as she looked at the man wearing body armor, pointing a rifle at a woman tied next to him. After taking over patrolling duties in Metropolis, this marked the second time she had to deal with a hostage situation. It puzzled her; she couldn''t fathom how someone thought they could escape a super-powered being capable of dispatching them with a mere flick.


    Yes, she was perplexed. How did these criminals conceive the imprudent idea of robbing a diamond processing factory and taking people hostage in Metropolis, where Superman resided? Even if Superman wasn''t famous yet, it was sheer stupidity.


    But Kara hadn''t intervened as she had in the past. She merely observed. The criminals had set up a landmine-like device that would detonate with any shock, using lead to prevent her from melting its components to stop it from exploding. A clever trick, but it wouldn''t save them from jail time.


    "Supergirl!" someone called.


    Kara looked down; it was a police officer in charge of the hostage situation. The man had a stern face, dark skin, black eyes, an imposing build, and his blue uniform clung tightly to his body. He gazed resolutely at Kara.


    "What is it, officer?" Kara asked.


    Unlike her, who could see through buildings, they could only stay outside and observe the situation. They were waiting for the villains to state their demands and rescue the hostages. They had no intention of endangering the lives of the citizens, knowing the Supers would apprehend the criminals before they could.


    Kara nodded and scanned the building. "Fifteen criminals, five loading the diamonds, while ten guard the hostages. The thirty hostages are unharmed but bound. They''ve set up a highly explosive bomb to prevent my intervention and placed plastic explosives near the hostages."


    The officer absorbed the details. "We''d like you to keep an eye on the situation inside."


    Kara nodded and continued to watch as the criminals loaded all the diamonds into large bags and brought them to the hall where the hostages were kept. They then conversed among themselves, grouping the hostages around the bomb and placing a landmine-like device on a frightened lady''s hand, warning that it would explode if she shook too much.


    The lady sat frozen in fear, trying her best not to move. Kara noticed the lady''s acquaintance attempting to reassure her while tears streamed down her cheeks. Although Kara was already seething with anger, she restrained herself.


    The criminals loaded the bags into their armored jeep, and the apparent leader radioed for communication.


    [Bzzz] [buzzz]


    [Hello, officers]


    The police radio crackled to life, and the criminal leader spoke. The officer responded to the radio, "What do you want?"


    [We want nothing but your caped hero to stay out of this. If she attacks or follows us when we leave, the hostages go BOOM.]


    The officer looked at Kara as he listened to the criminal''s demand. Kara nodded her head in understanding and landed next to him.


    "Okay, she won''t interfere or follow you," the officer replied.


    [Thanks, officer]


    [buzz]


    The radio was cut, and the armored jeep reversed out of the building. They had used the jeep to break through the wall just as their small group took hostages. The police officers removed the barricades and let the jeep leave.


    The leader whistled and winked at Kara as he passed by. Kara wanted to burn his face but stopped herself. She prioritized protecting the hostages over exacting revenge on the criminal.


    "Kara...kara"


    While Kara was staring daggers at the departing jeep, a soft voice called her from the distance. Kara searched the crowd, focusing on the voice.


    "Kara, this is Zion. I will take care of the bomb," Zion''s voice came from inside the factory.


    Kara saw a blue creature wearing a blue robe walk into the hall. The hostages were shocked at the appearance of an alien creature, but they remained calm, already tied to bombs.


    "I am with Superman," Bigchill said in its chilly voice.


    Hearing Superman''s mention, the hostages relaxed. If someone Superman knew was involved, they felt secure. Superman was the beacon of justice for those in Metropolis.


    Bigchill walked to the lady holding the bomb. The woman''s eyes were red from crying, clearly traumatized by the event.


    "It''s okay, ma''am," Bigchill tried to smile with his frightening face. "I will take care of it."


    The lady nodded like a pecker. Bigchill extended his hand toward the bomb, his hands turning ethereal. When his hands touched the bomb, it froze inside and out, locking its activation mechanics. He then removed the bomb from the lady and continued to do the same for the other bombs.


    With the bombs removed, the hostages rushed outside. The police quickly moved to check on the hostages and stopped the civilians from barging in. The officer turned to Kara, but she was gone. She had already flown away when Zion removed the bombs.


    ...


    The criminals, riding in the jeep, laughed and chatted.


    "Boss, you really planned this well," one of the goons praised his boss.


    "Hmm, those small-timers really boasted about how Metropolis had Superman. Looks like it was all just a ruse," the boss commented.


    As you heard, these fellows were not from here. They only decided to rob in Metropolis after a thug from Metropolis bragged about how the city had Superman and how he stopped criminals. These guys thought it was just the guy boasting to intimidate them, so they decided to carry out a heist in Metropolis.


    "Yes, bo...[BOOM]


    The car''s front was crushed by the landing. Kara ripped the car in two, threw the driver to the side, and lifted the leader by the throat.


    Her eyes glowed red as she looked into the leader''s eyes. "What should I break?"


    "Mommy," the leader urinated himself.


    The thug had forgotten to explain that Superman held back when fighting, and the new super broke criminals'' bones.


    ...


    [BAM] [Crash]


    The abrupt collision echoed through the city, inciting panic among the police. Their hands instinctively went to their weapons, only to relax as they identified the source: Kara. She descended, dropping the criminals at her feet, each incapacitated by the excruciating pain she had dealt them. The officers winced at the sight of twisted bones and broken limbs.


    "Can you tone it down?" the officer requested.


    "Not for these people," Kara retorted.


    "Does Superman approve?" the officer inquired.


    Superman''s disapproval of her actions was clear, and she did want to hold back until she saw a child trafficker kidnapped a child and punched her to keep her from screaming. Kara moved swiftly to stop it. The trafficker lost his limb in the process, turned to mist before being thrown through walls


    Superman''s guidance conflicted with Kara''s approach. While he advocated for redemption, she believed in punishment as a deterrent. The officer attempted to mediate.


    "No, but the crimes have reduced. Did it not?" Kara countered.


    The officer, acknowledging the drop in crime, fell silent. Criminals now understood that their actions came with not just imprisonment but also bone-breaking consequences. Only the brave or desperate dared to challenge the new status quo.


    "Okay, but I do not approve of it," the officer conceded.


    "You don''t need to, officer," Kara replied before soaring away.


    The officer shook his head.


    *****

 27 - Invitation

    "Kara," a chilling voice resonated, causing Kara to promptly activate her heat vision. "Hey! hey! It''s me, Zion," Zion urgently disclosed, ending his invisibility.


    Zion, maintaining his transformation, revealed his ghostly blue face with harsh black lines outlining his green eyes, his mouth a frown with four bluish-white teeth, his black body with blue patches, and his massive wing with a thick black border containing three cyan patches.


    Noticing it was the blue creature that rescued the hostages, Kara deactivated her heat vision. The blue creature flapped its wings as it kept up with her speed.


    Zion turned invisible. "Sorry, but I can''t stay visible. My form attracts too much attention."


    Kara nodded before flying to a skyscraper, and took a seat on its guardrails. Her cape fluttered in the wind, her eyes surveyed the city for any help needed. This place was one of her favorite spots in Metropolis, where the sun would drown her with all its warmth, and the wind was soothing, giving her peace of mind.


    [Golden light flash]


    Zion sat next to her, his transformation undone. "No hobbies?"


    Kara didn''t answer him; she wasn''t really interested in entertainment produced on Earth. This primitive planet couldn''t offer her knowledge either. She couldn''t get a job or anything similar in Metropolis, she was an immigrant from another planet without any ID to prove and she didn''t want to work in those back alley shops; they stink, and she might accidentally blast someone with her heat vision on the first notice of annoyance.


    "Here," Zion offered an envelope.


    Kara looked at the envelope and examined the content within with her X-ray vision, revealing documents and a small ID showing her name as Kara Kent. The documents were the things she would need to prove her existence on Earth, including a college certificate if she ever wanted to get a professional job. Kara took the envelope. "How did you get this?"


    "Did some digging through walls and broke a few laws," Zion shrugged. "It was pretty easy." After all, with his skill and Upgrade, the firewalls were like wet paper.


    "What are you doing here?" Kara asked as she stored the envelope in her suit.


    "Want to go on a second date?" Zion proposed, his smile bright.


    Kara just raised a brow; her face spoke many things. Zion''s smile turned into a sheepish one. "Okay, Okay, I am going to Mars in a week''s time. Do you want to come?"


    "Why do you want to go to a dead planet?" Kara had learned about Earth and the solar system, so she knew that Mars was a desolate planet.


    Zion revealed a mysterious smile. "The planet is not as desolate as people think, and I am taking over."


    "You plan to conquer," Kara raised a brow.


    "Not a conquest but an alliance," Zion clarified. "I have a base to build tech, and Mars provides the ideal location."


    "Why involve me?" Kara sought an explanation.


    "I need to carry some equipment to build the base; they are huge, and I don''t have space to build a rocket to launch them. A rocket would also attract too much attention, so I decided to take them there myself, but I need help," Zion revealed his reasons for the visit.


    "You want me to carry your stuff?" Kara was baffled.


    Zion looked straight into her eyes. "Aren''t you bored? Like just sitting here all day, waiting for someone to call your name."


    "That''s my job," Kara defended her vigilance.


    Zion''s face turned serious. "Kara Zor-El." Kara turned her head from the city below to Zion. "You are a brilliant mind and a brave warrior; are you going to waste away your potential by sitting on a tall building all day like a chimp on a tree? Even chimps know better."


    Zion stood up on the concrete guardrail, his hands spread dramatically. "Join me in the quest to connect two different species across the solar system!" Zion''s voice filled the sky. "It shall be a new adventure. And I could give more food for your brain than any on this earth."


    "Who would protect Metropolis if I leave with you?" Kara questioned.


    Zion shrugged. "Superman did it before; he can do it again."


    "Well, I was really enjoying the free time I had," a voice intervened, "But I think you should take a break from the ''bone snapping''."


    A man in red and blue flew next to them, his cape flowing with the wind. The ''S'' on his chest was a dead giveaway of who he was. Superman was here with his hands crossed on his wide chest, a confident smile that would put anyone at ease.


    He had a light smile as he looked at Zion, but his face turned stern when he looked at Kara.


    Zion scratched the back of his head. "Superman..." He wasn''t expecting Superman.


    Kara return the stern gaze defiantly. She was expecting him; after all, they were sitting on the Daily Planet''s skyscraper.


    "We had this conversation before; stop breaking people''s bones," Superman sighed in frustration. It was not that he didn''t understand Kara''s reasoning, but they represented something more than just super-powered cops. They were here to make a difference; they can''t be wrong examples by taking the law into their hands. "We stand for something more; we are to inspire hope. WE DO NOT HARM people for their crimes; the Cops and Law are there for it."


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    Kara frowned. "But the law is full of holes, and the Cops are full of crooks. How can justice be served by these people?!"


    "That''s why we inspire people to be good and support those who want to do good, so they can do it without fear knowing that we are here to help." Superman was feeling frustrated. He was being patient; Kara was still young and inexperienced; he hoped she would turn around, but she only retaliated more. "I want you to take a break from crime fighting. I let you take care of it because I hoped it would help, but it is not. Your anger only grows with each day, and I think it is time for you to take a break."


    "I-"


    "Zion, you can take Kara with you," Superman cut Kara off and turned to Zion. "I heard you wanted to connect two different species across the solar system?"


    "Yes, sir," Zion saluted like a soldier. "I am planning on building a base on Mars for my research and terraform the planet into a habitable one."


    "What of the other species?" Superman asked skeptically. He didn''t want Zion to intrude into their home; he would like to respect their traditions as he was also from another planet.


    "The Martians are subterranean species and their civil war had reduced their population to a handful," Zion stated. "Mars'' barrenness drove them underground to survive. With the terra-formation of the planet, they could thrive again, and Earth would gain a strong ally. As Martians possess powers similar to Kryptonians, added with psychic abilities and shape-shifting."


    Superman nodded his head in thought, being one of the last survivors of an extinct race made him understand the Martians'' situation. If he could, he would help them. "Do you need any help with this?" He asked


    .


    Zion scratched his head. "I would like to take a look into Krypton''s Databanks. The knowledge I received with the Omnitrix is limited. With the help of the Kryptonian tech, I could advance the terraforming of Mars by years."


    Since Superman has asked, he would not sweat about it.


    Superman raised a brow. "You want the knowledge of my people?"


    "I would like to; after all, Kryptonians were an advanced civilization," Zion explained. He could build the terraformer with his knowledge, but with Krypton''s Data Crystal, he could build it in a day. He would also gain an addition of knowledge.


    "But how did you know?" Superman inquired.


    Zion pointed at the Omnitrix and then to the sky. He wore the most powerful Device in the universe, of course he knew about Superman''s fortress.


    "Okay," Superman agreed, as he could see no malice in Zion''s intention. "Kara will take you to the fortress, and I trust you to not betray my trust." Superman''s words showed that he placed his trust in Zion, but it also demanded Zion to do what''s right.


    "I will," Zion smiled confidently.


    "Kara, take Zion to the Fortress and assist if needed," Superman ordered Kara, his tone leaving no room for refusal.


    Kara reluctantly accepted.


    "I will take my leave," Superman said that and blitzed away.


    Zion turned to Kara, grinning ear to ear. "Ha, fate! You are stuck with me now, Kara."


    His words gained a glare from Kara. Zion shrugged as he transformed into his Kryptonian form.


    "Solaris!!!"


    "You really have to shout the name?" Kara question.


    Zion shrugged, "It''s a tradition."


    Kara side eyed Zion for a moment before flying toward the Sky. Superman''s fortress was well up in the orbit. Her flight speed was nearing mach 2, quickly rising above the clouds.


    He stood still for a moment as he felt the stellar energy fill his body. He could feel that his strengthened cells, but they were out of charge like a drained battery, but they were back power.


    Zion looked up and kicked off the guardrails. His cells were charged enough for him to fly. His flight was steady, and his speed climbing with each second.


    Zion analyzed his body more thoroughly than his first transformation. He could feel his senses expand, vision sharpened, muscles contracting, heart drummed, and blood rush. He had perfect control of this body, but he knew that he was not as strong as a natural Kryptonian who could constantly bask in the sun. His strength was only in the superhuman level; it would increase but less substantially than a natural Kryptonian as his cells would lose their charge with each timeout.


    But his cells would strengthen, so will his durability and natural strength.


    Zion flew, following Kara, into the orbit where a spaceship was hovering. The ship looked like a jellyfish with its many ''tentacles''. Kara approached the ship, which responded by opening its hatch doors.


    Zion landed on the metal floor, feeling the weight of gravity act upon him. The ship''s artificial gravity was maintained at 1G(Krypton), cause him to stumble.


    Steadying himself, Zion followed Kara as she took him through the halls, where many miniature cities resided, shrunken in size, kept in containers. These were the collections of Brainiac.


    Kara turned left and brought him to a section where the Kryptonian techs were stored, the last remnant of Krypton''s civilization. In the middle of it all was the shuttle that brought the last son of Krypton.


    "Brainiac 5, show our friend here the Kryptonian Databank. Only the knowledge," Kara instructed the ship''s AI. She then turned to Zion and pointed at the metal door behind the shuttle. "You can study there; it is equipped with the Data chamber."


    Zion gave her an appreciative nod. "Thank you, but you are coming with me to explain if I have doubt." Zion smiled in a way that would make Kara want to punch his face.


    He immediately rushed into the chamber, escape an immanent punch, and found the holographic table with a headband with the House of El symbol. He promptly crowned himself, and System AI started his lessons; it started from the very beginning of Krypton, its history, then its politics and sociology, and many other subjects. The AI was only starting its beginner lessons.


    ...


    After a few long years later,


    Zion walked out of the chamber, his beard grown like a bush, his hair cascading his eyes, his gaze sharpened with wisdom and knowledge.


    Kara looked at Zion with a raised eyebrow.


    "I have gained enlightenment," His voice wizened.


    "You were there only for an hour," Kara stated, ending Zion''s shenanigans.


    Zion moved his hand, removing the fake beard and wig. He had absorbed a year worth of Knowledge, his Kryptonian brain cells retained it perfectly, he just needed to digest it. Zion moved his hand to his belt where the Omnitrix resided and slapped it. The golden light flashed, and he transformed from his Kryptonian form to his Galvan form. The change in Brain structure blurred some knowledge, history, and politics, but retained the scientific knowledge.


    The gears of the little Galvan''s main brain started to turn it, slowly and steadily absorbing the knowledge, turning the raw data into information. The process took a few minutes, and his super-brain already started to deduce few new theorems from the existing information.


    "A vastly different technological tree compared to human technology, based on self-replicating crystalline structures. Really fascinating that you could create mega-structures with a single crystal, but the drawbacks are obvious. The structure is powered by geothermic energy, draining the planet core of its heat, destabilizing it. No wonder your world blew up; your arrogance brought your demise." Grey Matter concluded, he could already deduce this much from the basic information he processed.


    He then walked back into the chamber without minding Kara, with this knowledge, he should be able to tune the crown to adjust to Galvan brain waves. The metal door closed shut, sealing the greedy Galvan inside.

 28 - Normal day

    "Are you finished?" Kara questioned the lively little Galvan monitoring the engraving process of a Kryptonian data crystal, a sunstone.


    "Yes, only the last part of engraving left before it can be used," Grey Matter replied, his eyes still fixated on the sunstone undergoing the process. He had spent the last twenty-four hours digesting the raw data he absorbed into useful information. Fully grasping the mechanism behind the crystalline structure, he programmed a new one that would help him form a base and terraform Mars into a habitable planet.


    The bots completed the process, handing a pure white crystal that shone blue under the holographic monitor. The seemingly normal crystal contained everything he needed, and it was only double the size of Grey Matter.


    "It''s done," Grey Matter rejoiced.


    "Are we going to leave now?" Kara was bored out of her mind. The last twenty-four hours were a waste.


    Grey Matter didn''t even turn his gaze at her as he absorbed the knowledge. She had to roam around the fortress to stave off her boredom; she couldn''t even go back to Metropolis since Superman ordered her to help Zion.


    After a few hours of touring, she could only go out into space to charge her cells. She liked the feeling of the young Sol. An exhilarating surge coursed through her veins, a profound vitality awakened within her. It was as if every cell in her body was enlivened with cosmic energy. It was euphoric.


    That''s how she spent the rest of the hours, bathing in the sun. The unfaltering void of space allowed her to absorb more concentrated stellar energy than Earth. The atmosphere scattered the light and reduced its concentration. She felt stronger than ever with each sunbath.


    "Let''s go," Zion, now in his Kryptonian form, called, storing the crystal in his suit.


    "Mars?" Kara inquired.


    "No, I need to activate a nuclear bomb in Gotham," Zion answered as he walked toward the hatch.


    "A bomb?" Kara puzzled, trailing him.


    Zion kept walking as he answered, "I built a reactor for Wayne Enterprises. They should be assembling the parts, and I need to be there to monitor it. That thing would power Gotham for centuries."


    Kara stopped as the hatch opened, the air rushed out, the gravity zeroed, and the pressure quickly dropped to null. Zion looked at the ancient bright white glowing ball of fire in the distance. His drained cells danced in joy as they greedily absorbed the stellar energy, strengthening themselves. His eyes heated up for a moment before he suppressed the energy.


    Zion turned to Kara and gave her a nod before jumping out toward Earth. He let gravity drag him as he turned to Kara, only to see her follow him. They both fell through the thermosphere, the air lit up around them. Zion quickly adjusted his speed and slowed down his descent; Kara did the same.


    "Let''s go to Metropolis and take my car to Gotham," Zion adjusted his course.


    "Why should I follow? I did what I was meant to," Kara gave her answer; she didn''t want to spend more time with this fellow.


    Zion looked at her with a victorious grin that could earn a punch, "Superman ordered you to help me until I finish terraforming, so you are coming with me to Gotham. You are stuck with me, remember?"


    Kara clenched her fist and let out a deep breath to calm herself. She wanted to test her strength on Zion, especially on that punchable face, but restrained herself.


    They quickly flew to Metropolis and landed where Zion had parked his car, in front of the Cafe. Zion turned to Kara, who was still in her uniform, "Are you gonna come in that?"


    Kara gave him the side-eye and vanished for a moment, reappearing in a new set of clothes. A white long sleeve shirt folded to her elbow and tight black jeans. The style fit perfectly with her shoulder-length hair and strong personality.


    Zion got into his car, his transformation undone, and Kara got in the passenger seat. The car roared to life and quickly vanished into the traffic. Zion kept his eyes on the road as he blitzed past the vehicles at high speed. Everything blurred as he drove, his car''s AI handling most of the driving.


    -Skipping the awkward silent drive-


    Zion parked the car before Wayne Enterprises'' main building, the skyscraper extending to the skies, dwarfing the buildings nearby. The paparazzi and journalists were waiting around the building like hawks, seeking any info on the new energy tech.


    Zion quickly beelined to the entrance and showed the ID that Batman had given him to use when he arrived. The security quickly let them in, stopping the reporters from getting in the way.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    "Zion, yo Zion," a voice called from the crowd.


    Zion stopped in his tracks to look at the person who called. It was a red-haired youth in a brown leather jacket, a camera gripped in his hands. Jimmy Olsen waved his hands at Zion with a bright smile.


    "Yo, it''s me, Jimmy!"


    Zion looked to the guards and ordered, "Let him in."


    The guards complied as Zion''s identity showed he was the leading scientist. They didn''t question why a young person was a leading scientist, but the ID showed he was important, and they had received an order from the boss to let the person named Zion in.


    Jimmy talked with someone behind him before walking to Zion. "Thanks, man."


    "Why are you here?" Zion questioned. The Wayne enterprise had already announced the new energy tech, even if it was just downgraded info, so the journalist shouldn''t be here.


    "Just here to get a scoop on Wayne Enterprises'' latest invention. We''ve got an appointment with someone from R&D," Jimmy answered.


    "Well, good luck," Zion wished.


    "Why are you here, Zion?" Jimmy asked, not expecting to meet Zion of all people in Gotham.


    "Well," Zion wrapped his arm around Jimmy''s shoulder and pulled him in, whispering, "I am the guy who invented the tech."


    Jimmy doubted his ears as he turned to Zion, his face showing his thoughts. "You made it?"


    Zion smiled, "I did."


    Jimmy turned his head and checked the other journalists waiting; he then turned to Zion and asked in a whisper, "Can you give us an exclusive insight?"


    "Jimmy, always chasing the big stories," Zion smiled.


    Jimmy shrugged, "Work habit."


    "Okay, come with me." Zion removed his hand from Jimmy''s shoulder, gestured him to follow as he walked to the third elevator.


    Jimmy turned back and called his associate. "Clark, come fast, man. I got us an exclusive insight."


    At Jimmy''s call, a man with black hair wearing thick spectacles walked out from unrest crowd. His steps were steady, his posture slightly bent, wearing a baggy shirt and jeans. The man walked toward them and stood next to Jimmy.


    "Zion, meet Clark Kent, one of our investigative journalists," Jimmy introduced his colleague to Zion. "Clark, this is Zion, the guy who met with Superman."


    "Nice to meet you, Mr. Kent," Zion extended his hand for a handshake.


    Clark returned the gesture, acting natural, "Nice to meet you too."


    "Well, let''s talk as we get to the subject, shall we?" Zion got into the elevator.


    He pressed the ID to the panel as the last of them got in. The door shut tight before the elevator began to descend. The silence in the elevator was only broken by the elevator music. The elevator stopped four floors underground, and the metal door opened to reveal a huge shape with a massive machine sitting in the middle.


    The machine was a half-finished sphere with many wires attached to it. Its intricate mechanism interlocked with each other in a complicated mess. The parts inside the sphere were utter chaos to the mind.


    "What are you all doing? Do you have permission to be here?" asked the man in a white coat. The ID on him revealed him to be an assistant engineer.


    "The question is, what are you doing here?" Zion asked with a frown at the mess of his work. These folks were messing up the whole thing; they had connected the energy relay to the capacitors without a transformer, which, if not corrected, would erase the whole of Gotham when the Atomic Engine gets activated. This was one of the major issues; there were other thousands of smaller ones.


    Zion had built the parts like a Lego puzzle, each piece taking an important job in the conversion and transfer of energy. One mistake, and the whole thing goes ''BOOM!!!.'' This was not only a technical error but a human error, a massive one at that. It was his human error; he should have written a manual for assembling the chamber, which would have been ten thousand pages.


    "And who are you?" asked the engineer, irritated at a child questioning him.


    Zion threw his ID to the man before walking toward the Conversion Chamber of the Atomic Engine. The sphere being an intricate mess irked him to no end. It was the feeling of someone scribbling on your best artwork; you would want to stab them to death.


    "ALL OF YOU, STOP WORKING!!!" Zion roared.


    The experts who were studying the mission froze at the angry roar. They turned to see a young man with an enraged frown. Those who were working on the engine were the best Wayne Enterprises could offer; they were the best in their field, called to assemble this monster.


    "Why are you asking us to stop working?" One of the seniors asked.


    "Why? You are messing up the energy conversion array and jamming up the relay. You want Gotham to vanish when this thing starts?" Zion''s question made the senior frown.


    "Who are you?"


    "The one who built this," Zion crossed his arms.


    The senior was a bit shocked, at the ingenuity of the creation and at the age of the creator. He was clearly not expecting it to be someone so young. It is true there are geniuses, behemoths, in the scientific field who are young; even he was called one. But he never expected this young man to be the one to build the machine that was giving him a headache.


    The machine was simple yet complicated. It was like understanding what each block represents but never knowing how they build a tower.


    "You built this?" The senior became skeptical as he thought of the face.


    "He did," another voice answered instead of Zion.


    Two men walked toward the machine side by side, their footsteps echoing off the concrete floor.


    One was in his prime, a commanding figure with a tall, athletic build, dressed in a finely tailored suit. His hair, jet black, was perfectly coiffed, his chiseled jawline accentuating a strong, determined countenance.


    The other, much older, dressed in a sharp gray suit. His salt-and-pepper hair was impeccably groomed, adding a touch of sophistication to his appearance. Behind a pair of rectangular glasses, his intelligent eyes hinted at a mind constantly at work.


    Bruce glanced at the unfamiliar presences as he walked next to Zion. "You brought company."


    "They are friends," Zion answered.


    "It is a pleasure to meet another brilliant mind," Lucius extended his hand.


    Zion returned the gesture, "The pleasure''s mine."


    Lucius shook his hand and turned to the engineers. "There seems to be a problem with how our people assembled your engine."


    "Well, they did connect the things wrongly. NOTHING would not have gone wrong if we had started it. It would have been only Gotham disappearing from the face of the Earth." Zion''s voice filled the space, sarcasm oozing.


    The scientist froze in place. Lucius was calm, Bruce didn''t even flinch, and Clark frowned. Jimmy was shocked, and Kara was, well, Kara.


    "So, now get out," Zion pointed to the elevators.


    "People, I think you all need a break," Lucius suggested, trying to smooth things out.


    Zion watched as the scientists stopped working and left like hawks.

 29 - Fixing

    Zion sighed after the engineers left.


    "I will just do it," Zion sighed as he operated the Omnitrix. The golden holographic disk displayed the form. Zion looked through it for a moment before he found the form he needed, it was one of the alien in an old playlist.


    Zion pressed the side and the core ejected, "Fasttrack!"


    The golden light flashed, leaving a humanoid feline-like creature with a black blue color scheme. His hands, legs, chest, and part of his head colored blue. Black mask-like fins around his green eyes, a triangle-shaped nose, a thunderbolt-like design on his chest, and a triangle one down his back. He also had spike-like blades on his arms and legs.


    Fasttrack blurred and appeared next to the Conversion chamber. He moved around at high speed as he checked the device before a blue-black blur filled the space. The ''normal'' people watched in amazement as the machine was quickly dismantled and reassembled. It was like watching a video in fast forward.


    Fasttrack stopped next to the group, his hands on his chin. "I have made some slight modifications, but all in all, the device is good to go. Should we start it now?" Fasttrack turned to the other with the question.


    He quickly noticed the oddity as the group just silently observed him, "What?" he questioned.


    Lucius removed his glass and massaged his eyes, "I wasn''t expecting that."


    "Whoa! You built in like a minute," Jimmy exclaimed as he raised his camera to take pick, but was stopped Bruce Wayne.


    Kara and Clark just stayed silent, while Bruce just glared at Zion. But Batman also noticed that Zion had used his watch to transform. Batman noted that the weird mechmorph wasn''t his only transformation.


    "Should I start?'' Zion questioned, again.


    Lucius turned to Bruce Wayne, but Batman gave a nod of approval which was relayed by Lucius, "I think we should."


    "Okay," Zion blitzed next to a meter tall box. The box was the main component of the Atomic engine. He used his speed to remove the packaging and revealed a pure metallic cube. It was the engine. He placed his hands on it to feel its metallic coldness.


    Zion then slapped the Omnitrix on his chest, "Atomix!"


    A white giant with a hourglass symbol on his chest replaced the blue alien. Atomix easily lifted the cube box and walked back to the Conversion chamber. The sphere mechanically opened to reveal its inner compartment. Since the Engine was quite big, Atomix didn''t need to rely on the magnetism to place it in the chamber.


    The cube smoothly slid into the chamber, and the chamber closed. The machine stood still showing no movement¡ªit was not ''On''. Atomix took a step back and raised his hand, focusing his powers inside the generator.


    "I pray that we all don''t meet The Lord," Atomix''s respectful tone undermined his statement but those with quick mind understood what he was saying. Only Jimmy took a moment.


    Atomic started the atomic fusion in the middle of the engine, he forced the atoms to collide. The first few collision were just atoms bouncing off each other, but as the seconds ticked, the collision caused the atoms to break apart, releasing energy through atomic fission. This continued as the energy concentrated in the center increased, forcing the atoms to collide faster and fast, pressure concentrated in the center reached height enough to finally cause the first atomic fusion.


    The first, second, than the third. The collision continued as the atomic fusion began in the center of the 600 cell tetrahedron. Atomix knew it was time, causing him to concentrate more, he didn''t want the whole thing to go KaBOOM.


    The solid cube inside the chamber started to heat up, releasing thermal energy that made everyone in the room sweat. They could see the heat wave around the generator, distorting the air around it. Kara could even see the large amount of infrared that was filling the space.


    Than, [BOOOMM!]


    ...


    A shock wave shook whole of gotham, the wayne building at the epicenter experienced a earthquake. The people in the building fell to the floor, while some hid under their table in panic. The journalist scurried of, and the guards rushed in to protect their employee.


    The door to the -4th floor flunk open, engineers that had worked had rushed though the stair. They quickly noticed the group standing as they watched the machine, which was complete now. The sphere looked the same, but the panels next to it were lit up showing that it was working.


    The kid that kicked them out was operating the control panels.


    "You started it without us?" The leading engineer questioned. "We haven''t finished studying it."


    Zion did even turn as he kept checking the reading to make sure that the thing won''t blow up for some stupid reason. The reading were normal, the energy output was stable, the radiations were contained and the fission-fusion cycles were stable.


    This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    He rechecked the readings before walking to Lucius, the man who knew his stuff, "Keep the reading stable, I will send the procedures and manual to handle the engine."


    Lucius gave a nod, "I shall as I like to live to the end of my life."


    Zion just smiled, and turned to Kara. "Let''s leave!"


    "Leaving?" Jimmy asked.


    "Yes," Zion answered.


    "What about the interview?" Jimmy asked.


    "I showed you the whole thing didn''t I?" Zion answered turning to Clark Kent, "And, I think Clark can handle this, Can''t you?"


    "Yeah, I can," Clark gave an assuring smile.


    "Thanks, Clark."


    Zion took the elevator with Kara, and their journey was uninterrupted until they arrived at Zion''s fortress.


    ***


    The warehouse was a mess with many tinkered machines sprawling on the floor unattended. The processing line stood abandoned. The work table had many plans scribbled in indecipherable words.


    Zions had just dropped everything they were doing to take a break, so the warehouse looked like a teenagers bed room.


    "Not the best of place to be," Kara commented


    Zion didn''t comment much as he moved to his work table where his upgraded laptop sat with his diary on the side. Zion accessed his laptop to pull the file regarding the Atomic Engine. He removed the design details, and compiled the files in order and send the manual and maintenance data to Bruce Wayne''s email. The data would help them not to blow themselves if something unexpected happened.


    He really didn''t want to shareholders the data as it contained many core processes of the atomic engine, but he had to know. He thought the scientists would figure the whole system after studying the engine but he was expecting too much of them.


    He than transformed into XLR8 to clean up the warehouse. He arranged everything in order before he arrived back at his table. He now had the sunstone in hand, this saved him many hours of work, and accelerated his progress in creating a strong defense. After terraforming the Mars, he should have bit control over how thing would happen in the future.


    "What are you planning?" Kara''s voice rang from behind.


    Zion turned to Kara, his eyebrows raised.


    "Taking over planet, or building a base, you should have more reasons than connecting two species," Kara asked, she had never trusted Zion, it was something ingrained in her. She would never trust another, they would have to earn it.


    Zion nodded in agreement, "Yes, it is true that I have my reasons. The base I am going to build will change Mars forever."


    "What are you going to do?" Kara inquired.


    Zion stood up from his seat, his hands fiddling with the sunstone. "I am trying to change the course of history. I will turn the whole Mars similar to an Artificial Planet."


    Kara frowned, "Artificial planet? How can you change an already existing planet into an artificial one? And Mars have people, it would kill them!"


    Zion shook his head, "I have my ways, Kara. Even without killing."


    Kara stepped forward, her face leaning towards Zion. "If a single soul is hurt, I will rip you in two." Kara''s words were threatening, and the look in her eyes guarantied pain.


    Zion raised his hands in surrendered and took a step back. "Chill mate, I am not being the villain here."


    Kara''s eyes narrowed, "Your smile doesn''t assure your words."


    Zion smirked, "I told you, I am not here to cause harm. I am trying to help." Zion secured the sunstone on the table. "And you can''t stop me if I wanted it, Kara. You are still too weak."


    The moment he finished his words, a fist appeared few centimeters to his face. The fist connected and splashed the whole warehouse in goo. The green sticky goo covered everything in the warehouse. Zion in his human form couldn''t react, but Omnitrix had.


    "Man, you killed me," a higher pitched voice filled the warehouse.


    Kara moved her gaze to see were the voice originated, but the echos in the closed space made it hard. But she knew that Zion was still alive.


    A UFO-shaped object buzzed around the warehouse, collecting the green goo. The green goo melded together to form a humanoid slime. Two bright green spots formed on its head, its eyes. The UFO floated above its head.


    "Really?! You could have killed me," Zion complained


    "You didn''t die, did you," Kara shrugged.


    "You know what! I am going to beat you, here and now," Zion said as the golden flash covered his form, "NRG!!!"


    But a fist collided with NRG''s armour sending him flying through the warehouse''s wall like a loose cannon. NRG crashed into another abandoned warehouse and brought it to the ground. It was a good that the area around the warehouse was relatively abandoned.


    "Darn!" NRG groaned as he climbed out of the wreckage. His form fully visible under the high sun. His heavy dark green armour, with three slits on his head glowing hot red. The whole suit looked like a furnace, with bolts on his shoulder and writs.


    "You going to beat me?" Kara''s voice came from the sky, her tone condescending.


    NRG answered with an energy blast targeting Kara.


    Kara quickly dodged the attack and closed in on NRG using her super-speed. NRG moved his head, targeting Kara as she evaded his energy blast. The missed energy blast continued until it collided with an abandoned building and burned through it.


    "You are slow," Kara commented as she punched the heavy alien.


    The powered punch lifted NRG off his feat, and send the heavy alien souring through the sky, again.


    NRG, mid air, opened his helmet and pushed himself out. A large amount of radiation escaped his energized body and the air visibly heated up. The true form Prypiatosian became visible, now unsealed from his confinement.


    A humanoid form made of energy, emitting deep orange light, with green tights with black bands exceeding around his body. The amount of energy produced by his form, heating up the area like a real furnace.


    "Now, I will beat you," NRG stated as he increased his radiation output and matched the energy with the red giant''s.


    Kara, alerted, moved swiftly as she rushed to deliver another punch, but as she approched, she quickly realized that the energy was burning her, even through her un-vulnerable skin. Her skin was getting redder and the burning pained filled her mind, causeing her to reel back.


    "Fiiiiiinnnnnaaaaaal fllllaaaaaasssshhh!!!!"


    ~Phewwwwwww~


    NRG, locked on to Kara the minute she paused, delivered his charged up his energy blast. The red condense energy filled with red sun radiation hit Kara unforgivingly, and the beam that was traveled at quasi-lightspeed, didn''t miss its mark.


    Kara swiftly tried retreated, it was than Kara noticed that her speed had considerably reduce, causing her to not evade the energy blast in time. Red filled her vision as her body slammed into the ground. the heat burned though her dress to skin, her senses blinded by pain and her ears rung.


    If one looked from the distance, they could see a small mushroom cloud rising.


    *****

 30 - Battle results

    Check My other novels.


    Enjoy reading.


    *****


    Clark snapped his head in the direction of Metropolis, his superhearing picking up an explosion.


    "Clark," Jimmy pulled Clark from his daze.


    Clark turned to Jimmy. "Yes, what is it, Jimmy?"


    "What are you in a daze for?" Jimmy elbowed. "I was asking if you got everything you need for the story. You need to write it for the paper, remember?"


    "I know, Jimmy," Clark answered. "Sir, can you stop? I need to get down." Clark tapped on the driver''s shoulders.


    "Clark, where are you going?" Jimmy inquired.


    "Where?" The taxi driver asked.


    "I just need to get down to the side. You can take my friend to Metropolis," Clark answered. "I got something to do; you go without me."


    ***


    "I think I went a bit overboard," NRG muttered to himself as he watched the crater he had created. The attack had devastated the area; if the molten ground and the red-hot lava were anything to go by.


    The aftershock had blasted all the buildings away, and turned the surroundings into clear ground for new construction.


    NRG landed near the rim of the crater and looked down. Kara was out cold, her cloak slightly burned, hair curled, and her skin red. NRG could already tell that she was healing, and she would punch him the minute she woke up.


    "Need to clean up, fast," NRG rushed to his containment suit and confined himself. With NRG''s radiation contained, the temperature visibly cooled, and the hot lava less hot. Since NRG wasn''t the best at damage control, Zion slapped the Omnitrix to a new form.


    "Majik!" NRG''s bulky figure shrunk down to a human size, but the humanoid was anything but human. The purple alien of pure mana with electric purple flame for hair. The mana being wore a gold-black tight with short sleeves. The Anodyne Bio-Matrix in the Omnitrix finally came to use in the world of gods and magic.


    [Don''t argue with me that they don''t have DNA. Alien X doesn''t too.]


    Majik waved his hand. A sphere enveloped Kara in gentle embrace and carried her to his hands. A gentle whisper, three spells invoked to fix his troubles. The mana obeyed his command; ruins weaved themselves into the spell.


    - [????????] First to heal Kara, her healing accelerated, and her face gained back its fairness and beauty.


    - [¦¡¦­¦³¦©¦²¦³¦±¦¯¦µ¦§] The molten ground flowed back and filled the crater; the blown building fixed themselves as if they were never broken.


    - [Illusio] A great illusion cast on the area; anyone who steps in to check the explosion will only think of it as an accidental explosion.


    Being an Anodyne that had dominance over mana, in DC where some sacrifice their life to gain this power was humorous. Some might never realize the rabbit hole they have fallen into. Only to dig a deeper hole for themselves to fall in; search magic, but draw your limits.


    With restoration complete, Zion walked back to his lab, through the hole he made when he was shot out like a cannon. The building was left standing due to the space slicer activating in alert; if not, it wouldn''t have survived. He carried Kara gently and placed her on his neat work table. He didn''t have a bed in the lab; he didn''t want to sleep in here. Kara sleeping, unconscious, was at peace, which only tugged at Majik''s childish side, and he was petty.


    Quickly rummaging his drawer, Majik found what he needed. The petty punishment was delivered, and Kara woke up on the last stroke. Her eyes glaring at the purple man before her, Majik, his face stoic, not like you can tell anyway, met her gaze unflinched.


    "What did you do?" Kara inquired as she slid down from the table.


    She clenched her fingers into a fist and could feel her strength returning. She remembered the feeling of weakness, the burning sensation, and the red pillar that struck down. She remembered it all, all the pain.


    "A concentrated beam of red sun radiation, and a high-powered energy blast," Zion answered.


    "Weakness of Kryptonians. Took you out easy."


    And a fist approached, but this time, Majik reacted by grabbing the fist. Her fist firmly clasped in the purple palm, Kara glared at Zion, her eyes heating up.


    "Sorry," Zion muttered as he activated the inborn skill of all Anodyne, mana drain.


    "Ugh," Kara groaned as she felt her vitality drain, her strength weaken, and her knees buckle. She didn''t fully understand what Zion was doing, but she knew that her energy was hitting rock bottom and she would die if more drained.


    "Kara, I could kill you now," Zion stated as he stopped draining Kara, "Kryptonians have near-zero magic resistance. Your super-strength won''t help in these kinds of situations." Zion pushed back the mana he drained back into Kara. "So, stop being a hothead. You are not on Krypton where your father is to pamper you."


    His words earned a glare from Kara, her eyes burning holes in him. But he could see more than anger; he could feel her pain and sadness, and being an Anodyne made so he felt hers like it''s his.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    "I know you feel alone with no one to support you. I know that you are scared of being alone," Majik started, "But you can''t soothe your pain with anger."


    "Shut up." A eyes full of fury and sadness met Majik''s eyes. Majik''s hand firmly held Kara''s, his eyes locked with hers, now glistening with tears.


    "I can feel your pain, Kara. I can take all your anger."


    "Shut up!"


    "It''s okay, Kara. I understand your pain."


    "Shut up!!"


    "You were scare and alone, with no one to rely."


    "Stop talking."


    "I understand that you are angry at the injustice."


    "Stop talking like you know!"


    "I know, Kara, I know all of it. I understand that you are angry at the world and you don''t don''t know how to make peace with yourself."


    That was the final trigger, and rage burst forth!!!


    "WHAT DO YOU KNOW!!!"


    Kara roared, her punch of fury ripping Zions body to dust. But Zion stood firm his hands holding hers.


    ~BOOM~


    "I know you are sad that you had to leave home."


    "STOP TALKING LIKE YOU KNOW!!!"


    ~BOOM~


    "I know you are scared."


    "YOU KNOW NOTHING!!!"


    ~BOOM~


    "I know you don''t want to feel alone."


    "YOU DON''T KNOW ANYTHING!!!"


    "I do."


    ~BOOM~


    "HOW SCARY IT IS TO BE ALONE!!!"


    ~BOOM~


    "IN THE DARKNESS!!!"


    ~BOOM~


    "WITH NO WAY HOME!!!"


    ~Boom~


    "KNOWING YOU MIGHT BE THE LAST OF YOUR KIND!!!"


    ~BOom~


    "YOUR PARENTS DEAD!!!"


    ~Boom~


    "YOUR PLANET DESTROYED!!"


    ~boom~


    "WITH NO HOME TO RETURN TO!!"


    ~bam~


    "WHAT DO YOU KNOW!!!"


    Majik stopped her fist; this one had no strength behind it. The broken body mended together, and the dam of sadness broke; tears filled Kara''s eyes. She was strong, both in mind and body, but she was still a child when she arrived on earth. A frightened child exploring the unknown, yet she had to be strong.


    Because strength was what the world demanded of her.


    "I don''t, Kara," Majik answered, his tone soft and gentle as if he was speaking to a child. "No, I can''t relate to your pain, but I can help heal it."


    [Golden flash]


    Zion de-transformed; he needed to be himself in this situation. His hand firmly clasped Kara''s hands and lifted her to meet his eyes. "I am here to help, Kara. I can promise you that."


    "You are a pain in the ass," Kara stated.


    Zion smiled, "Oh, language."


    "You are," Kara repeated.


    "I am," Zion nodded in agreement.


    "Let go of my hand." Kara pulled her hands from Zion''s grasp.


    "Okay," Zion let go of her hand and raised his hands in surrender.


    Kara lowered her head and wiped her tears. "Do you transform when in danger?" She questioned, her head still lowered.


    "Yes, only if I am to be hurt," Zion answered truthfully.


    "Good," Kara spread her legs wide, lowered her center, and her fist cocked back. "You won''t die!"


    "Really?! We were making progress here," Zion argued as he stepped back.


    "That doesn''t mean I got to like it," Kara appeared before him like a blur, her punch filled with all anger and pettiness.


    ~BOOM~


    Zion, now Cannonbolt, flew out like a cannonball.


    "I will get you for this, Kara. You hear me, I will get you for this!!!" He was on a straight course to space.


    ***


    Superman watched as Cannonbolt flew toward space. He didn''t know what to say about being punched to orbit, but he felt that it wasn''t the best of experiences.


    Superman, already arrived by the time Zion fixed the crater, proceeded to watch what was happening after he checked the surroundings were clear. Since no life was in danger, he kept watch to see what Zion would do.


    Yes, it was not his style to stalk, but he just wanted to see what would happen. He watched as Zion lay Kara on the table and pulled a prank, and watched as Kara punched Zion in his transformation and let her emotions out. He watched as she punched holes through his body and let her frustrations out.


    Then Zion got cannonbolted.


    "I will get you for this, Kara. You hear me, I will get you for this!!!" Zion shouted as he shifted his body and slapped the Omnitrix.


    [Golden flash]


    "Jetray!!!"


    Superman watched as Zion shifted mid-air and transformed into a red alien that looked like a ray with red skin and green eyes with yellow eyebrows.


    The alien, called Jetray, shifted in and altered its flight path, moving with astonishing speed as it returned to the warehouse in moments. Jetray glided to a halt as he noticed Superman.


    "Superman, what are you doing here?" The high-pitched voice of Jetray assaulted Superman''s ears.


    "I heard an explosion, so I came to check, but the thing here seems to be resolved," Superman stated as he noticed more details on Jetray.


    "Ah, that," Zion landed back in human transformation and scratched the back of his head. "We had a misunderstanding. Kara and I ended up in a fight, and I used heavy force to take her down."


    "Because creating an artificial planet while there is a living species on the planet will destroy it." Kara''s voice came from behind.


    Superman and Zion turned to Kara, who floated out of the hole Zion made. She hovered near Superman as she glared at Zion.


    "Artificial planet?" Superman questioned.


    "A planet that is formed artificially. Most advanced civilizations use them for various purposes. Like a Mechanical Planet for production, or a Bio Planet for food," Zion explained as he returned the glare at Kara.


    Superman understood the purpose of this artificial planet, but what was the link between it and terraforming Mars. Where did the extinction of life come in all this?


    "Why are you converting Mars into an artificial planet? You told me that you were trying to terraform it into a habitable planet," Superman questioned.


    "I am not," Zion put a stop to the misunderstanding that keeps growing, "Technically, anyway. I am trying to reconfigure Mars; there is a difference."


    "Explain," Superman demanded.


    Zion released a heavy breath, "Let''s go in before I start the explanation."


    Zion then walked to his warehouse and entered through the door. Superman followed through the door while Kara just floated back in through the hole.


    "You are fixing it," Zion pointed at Kara. He then pressed a button on the side of his table, prompting it to light up and the warehouse to darken, but It couldn''t fully with the large hole cannonball made. This caused Zion to massage his brows to relieve his stress.


    The table lit up full and projected a sphere in the air. Zion changed some configurations, and the sphere shifted to represent Mars landscape, then it split in half and showed the layers of crust. The holographic table was showing the internal structure of Mars.


    "Mars, it''s a smaller planet than Earth, and its gravitational pull is too low, causing it to have a very thin atmosphere. This will cause many health problems if humans were ever to colonize," Zion pointed out the flaws of Mars for a habitable planet.


    "My plan is to modify the whole planet, starting from the outer crust and then moving to the inner core, and replacing it with an artificial gravity core. Normally, an artificial planet is created by fusing together rogue asteroids with an artificial gravity core. This will help in creating a planet with certain configurations, easier to make and modify. The problem that Kara stated happens here when reconfiguring the core of an existing planet to suit our needs. In normal conditions, the planet will go through a harsh change with gravitational shifts; life would struggle to survive on the planet, and in the off chance, the planet will explode."


    Superman and Kara frowned, but Zion continued explaining his plan.


    "But I plan on turning the whole planet semi-sentient, which would keep the planet stable as the core of the planet''s core is changed. It would also fight climate change and modify itself to support life. This plan would take a month as the change would be gradual."


    Zion finished, and the scene paused.

 31 - Mars expedition

    Superman and Kara looked baffled.


    Zion looked at them for a moment, checking his face, "What?"


    Superman coughed, bringing himself together, "You want ot turn a planet semi-sentient? how do you even do that?"


    Zion bobbed his head, "Well, if I use my Omnitirx''s Morph-Matrix and fuse it with Kryptonian Sunstone''s self replication, I could do it, hypothetically."


    "Hypothetically?" Kara asked, "You are trying to terraform a planet with lives on it with a hypothetical plan that you don''t know it will work or not?"


    Zion shook his head, "The hypothetical part is, the whole planet gaining sentience and we would have a highly advanced race as our neighbor. That is a headache I really don''t want to deal with."


    Kara and Superman just looked confused, the creation of a sentient planet was such unique even that their birth seldom witnessed, but Zion was saying that he would create it by accident.


    "So, I think I made my plans clear," Zion dusted his hands, "Are their any questioned?"


    Kara and Superman looked at each other before tactically deciding that they would not ask the insane person before them anymore question. Kal-El still needed time to fully learn about Krypton and all. Kara still haven''t finished her studies to understand all this.


    "Okay, no questions," Zion nodded to himself, proud of his brilliant explanation. "I think We should take our leave as soon as we can."


    Superman pushed his thoughts aside, "You leaving?"


    "Yes, I already have everything I need," Zion waved the sunstoned before pocketing it. "We can leave after Kara fix the hole," Zion turned to Kara.


    Kara grumbled before she flew away and brought back a large peace of metal sheet from somewhere and welded the hole shut. "Happy?"


    "Yes, " Zion was ''okay'' with her patch work. He couldn''t complain, Kara would just try to punch him if he pushed her more.


    Zion threw her a re-breathers he had built for this space trip to Kara. The re-breathers would cycle their breaths for extended usage, and help them not choke in the vacuum of space.


    He then access the Omnitrix and transformed into Solaris, wore one of the re-breathers and handed the spare to Superman, "You might need this."


    "Thanks?" Superman checked the mask that would only covered the lower half of his face.


    Zion wore the re-breather that looked like sci-fi wolf mask. The mask attached to his skin airtight and created a minor force-field around his head for extra safety. After checking sure that his re-breather fit correctly, he turned to Kara, a smile crept up his lips immediately.


    The cat-like mask with cute goffy cat smile sat perfectly on Kara''s face, but if the slight frown on her face was anything to go by, she wasn''t feeling good about looking cute. The thing was, the mask fit her perfectly, especially the canines, and the red-blue colour scheme that fit her dress.


    Zion just smiled, and walked out of the warehouse with Superman following him. Kara walked out with them without a word. Zion punched some numbered on the digital lock for the warehouse and turned to Superman.


    "See you in a while, Superman," Zion extended his hand for a handshake.


    Superman took Zions hand, "I hope to hear good news."


    Zion gave a confident smile, "Of course, I always impress."


    Superman released Zions hands and turned to Kara, "Don''t punch people the minute they do something you don''t like."


    "I am not that hotheaded," Kara refuted, but the looks she was getting from both Zion and Kal-El was saying otherwise.


    "I will keep an eyes on her, " Zion assured Superman, before kicking off the ground.


    Kara turned to Superman, "I will keep an eye on him." She kicked of the ground and followed Zion.


    Superman watched as his juniors fly off to outer space on an expedition. He didn''t know what to say about Kara''s words as he had decided to trust the kid he only met about a month ago. He hoped for his journey to be successful and the Martians don''t aggro.


    Superman check the surrounding for with his X-ray vision before flying off to metropolis. He needed to give a convincing allaby to his friend.


    ***


    Kara flew next to Zion.


    They didn''t converse, but they flew out of Earth with tactical understanding. Zion paused to check his pocket for the sunstone,"Check."


    Zion gave Kara an affirmative node before accelerating toward the red planet they could see in the distance.


    It was good that Mars was still relatively near Earth, and with the Stellar energy from the sun unfiltered. They strength and speed only increase each passing moment. Zion and Kara kept accelerating, yet kept near each other. Their trip would take only a short time.


    Kara and Zion didn''t converse the whole trip as they chased after the red planet which grew bigger with each passing second. Zion scanned the celestial canvas, this was his first time looking at space unfiltered and the Kryptonian vision really made it more mesmerizing.


    He kept turning his head, taking in all he could. The distant star cluster, the milky way, nebula, all looked mythical. The space was like a whole different world. It was a beauty beyond words.


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.Kara wasn''t enjoying the visuals, she was battling her thoughts. She didn''t have the distraction of protecting metropolis now in outer space, and her demons were crawling outin the absolute silence. Her insecurities born of darkness and the burning rage of pain, it was everything she suppressed to live normally. She could never forget her caged days, it would haunt her for life.


    A tap on the shoulder, dragged Kara out of her drowning thoughts and a voice entered her ear through the mask. "You are it! Catch me if you can, slowpoke!"


    Kara looked her gaze on Zion, and could feel the grin on his face through the vacuum of space. Zion quickly blitzed past her, covering many spacial units in moment. Kara shook her head off thoughts and decided to take up on Zion''s challenge.


    That how the race between two supers started.


    Zion made many angular turns to compensate for his slow speed, compared to Kara, making sudden unexpected turned to keep her from catching him. He kept it until he got caught and Kara became the prey. This repeated many times until they arrived on Mars.


    ...


    While Kara and Zion were placing tag.


    The observatories that were observing mars detected a high speed object nearing Mars, its directions and velocity constantly changing, and its path non-linear. This sent alarms through the observatory, the leading astronomer rushed to check the reading''s on the equipments.


    Due to the delay between the communication, they had to wait a few minutes to get a good look at what was causing this. The images they got of the objects were blurry and confirmed it was two different object that kept changing their velocity at will.


    After a minuted, few more images reached their computers, and this time, unlike before, the images were clear. The imaged showed two humanoids, one especially distinguishable with the ''S'' on its chest. This shocked the observers and confirmed some of their theories on Superman.


    "I want all the data saved and copied. This could help us understand Superman''s anatomy," The leading astronomer ordered his junior.


    "Yes, sir," The young man quickly copied the files and transferred them to his seniors computer. "Sir, who do you think the second one is? He seems to be wearing an hourglass symbol on his chest."


    "Maybe another Kryptonian. Even though we learned that it was destroyed, doesn''t mean all of them Kryptonians are dead." The senior answered.


    "A species capable of traveling the vacuum space without any equipment. They might really be god among men." The senior concluded, awed.


    "I don''t think they can travel without equipment," Another leading astrologist pointed at a picture with more clarity, "They seem to be wearing masks, it is probably for breathing."


    "Might be," the senior agreed as he scrutinize the image.


    "What are they doing?" The astrologist asked.


    "They seem to be traveling toward Mars and..." The junior cross check the many blurred images for confirmation, "Playing tag?"


    "Does that even make sense? playing tag?" the senor chided, "Check Mars landscape, we might have missed something and project the images from the Mars satellite on monitor 2."


    The junior quickly got to work and connected the feed from the Mars satellite to monitor 2. The seniors keeping watch on the two blurs notice them slow down as they neared Mars. The astrologist was the first one to notice a certain anomaly as he calculated the time it took for these blurs to travel.


    "How fast are they traveling?" He questioned.


    The question froze both his colleges, they haven''t noticed it as they were more focused on what their purpose was. The junior quickly wrote the calculation in his computer, and his eyes widened at the result. The speed, calculated by the time frame it took them to travel such distance, was unrealistic. It was many times even their fastest artificial satellite.


    "Should we report this, sir?" The junior questioned.


    "Not for now," The senior ordered, "But keep an eye on Mars."


    "Yes, sir,"


    ...


    Zion stopped above the red planet called Mars.


    He was at his destination and he would gain one of the powerhouses'' Bio-Matrix and a small token of the alliance. He would first need to go to the Martians to get their approval and such. Kara stopped next to him, ending the game of tag with Zion being it.


    "What now?" Kara questioned.


    "We meet with the Martian Royalty. The Martians might be hardheaded and they might not take our visit well. But remember, we are here to make peace," Zion pressed the last sentenced to signify.


    But he left his plans unsaid as the peace might be brokered as allies or as the ruler of the species. It might be best if he ended their whole racial division at core before they have a coup.


    "I am not a barbarian," Kara retorted.


    "I know, my peace loving warrior ess. Just don''t punch down, and focus your bio-field around your brain, oscillate it in irregular pattern to keep the psychics out," Zion instructed before diving down.


    *****


    Think of it as creating a psychic barrier of raw psyionic energy.


    Or more like alternating brainwaves.

 32 - Assemble

    -Batcave-


    Batman stared at the monitor of the supercomputer, the words of Zion playing in his mind.


    He had gone through the process of preparing gadgets to fight the invasion, but even he knew that he could not fight this war alone. He would need more soldiers to fight this war. So, he began his search to find many others like him, both with powers and not.


    But his search was being delayed with his investigation about the new gang that had taken root in Gotham. Their influence had grown large during the past week, recruiting crooks from Crime Alley and absorbing small-time gangs.


    He has yet to catch the mastermind behind.


    "You should have your meals on time, sir."


    The venerable butler entered from the shadows of the Batcave, in his hands holding a tray with a bowl of soup.


    "Not hungry, Alfred," Batman responded.


    "Grumpier than usual, Master Bruce," The familiar tone of his trusted butler relaxed his nerves.


    "Might I suggest some trolling on the internet to let out your frustration? The argument about Bruce Wayne being Superman is still burning on the worldwide web."


    Batman turned to his venerable butler, his eyebrows raised. "You seem to be enjoying it."


    Alfred placed the soup he brought on the side table. "Well, it has grown on me, if I say so myself. It is really fascinating to watch the chaos unfold."


    "You should stop surfing the internet so much, Alfred," Batman advised.


    "Maybe, sir," Alfred responded, "But seeing as some strongly believe that Lex Luthor is Green Arrow, and with them both so attached to the color green, the theory might be proven true."


    Batman showed a rare smile. "If Luthor is Green Arrow, then Bruce Wayne is Batman."


    "Cracking a joke, I see," Alfred commented, "Should you try harder, I would chuckle."


    "You seem extremely energetic today, Alfred," Batman stated.


    "After all, it''s that time of the month," Alfred replied, "We should talk about Master Dick''s future."


    Batman raised an eyebrow.


    Alfred pulled a letter from his breast pocket and presented it to Batman. "I received it this morning."


    Batman took the letter and read the few words carefully.


    [Robin is not Batman; Dick Grayson is not Bruce Wayne. It is time you acknowledge it!


    By your truly, Zion (?¡ö_¡ö)]


    Batman looked up at his butler, his eyes reflecting his trouble.


    "We both know that Master Dick has grown out of your shadow, Master Bruce. I think it''s time you accept that," Alfred advised.


    "He still needs training and more experience before he could fight crimes on his own," Batman stated, returning to his search.


    "I know that you fear losing your son, Bruce," Alfred placed a hand on Bruce''s shoulders. "You keep him where you can see him in worry of him getting hurt, but Robin being in your shadow will only limit his growth. For both Robin and Dick."


    "..."


    Alfred sighed at Batman''s silence. "Please eat before it gets cold, Master Bruce." With that, Alfred left Batman to his thoughts.


    Batman, with his hands gliding over his computer, just stared at the screen before him. He had realized that he was limiting Robin''s growth by keeping him under his shadow. Robin, unlike him, always moved forward toward the future.


    But he feared the worst. It was his work habit to prepare for the worst, and losing his son, his family, would hurt him beyond words, and the self-blame of not being there to protect him would eat him alive. He was not ready for that. Batman was not ready to lose another of his family.


    At the same time, Alfred was right; he should let Dick grow. He could not keep him under his shadow forever. Dick was meant to be more than him, more than the Dark Knight.


    "You seem to be troubled," A mechanical voice interrupted.


    Batman looked at the screen, now black with golden lines forming an outline of a face. The anime-style chibi art was waving at him, looking identical to a certain fellow. "What is it, Zion?" Batman asked in his deep voice.


    "


    No, not Zion," The small chibi shook his head.


    Batman raised an eyebrow, "Then who are you?"


    "Well, let me introduce myself," The chibi spun; his dress changed into a suit with a top hat. He removed his hat and pressed it against his chest, introducing himself like a gentleman, "I am Z.A.I, an artificial intelligence created with Zion''s memories, to take his place when needed.


    My friend, you are troubled, and I am here to help."


    "Would you look at that, you got your first friend, Master Bruce!" Alfred''s comment came through the comms.


    "Stop listening all the time, Alfred," Batman said.


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    "Can''t do, sir. A butler''s job is to be always ready," Alfred countered.


    "Neat butler you got there," Z.A.I commented from his digital residence.


    "Thank you," Alfred acknowledged.


    "Hey Alfred, wanna come work for me? It will be less stressful than your current occupation," Z.A.I offered.


    "I would have to politely decline your offer. If I am not here, both of my masters would die of starvation before they find the keys to their vehicle other than the Batmobile." Alfred quipped from the other side.


    "Man, you got it hard," Z.A.I replied.


    "It is true," Alfred replied, his tone mimicking tiredness.


    "I feel ya, man," Z.A.I resonated.


    Batman at this point, annoyed by both behaving like he didn''t exist, "What do you want, Z.A.I?"


    Z.A.I and Alfred stopped messing with Batman in union. Alfred understanding that the conversation was getting serious, "I shall return to my duty," quietly took his leave.


    Z.A.I now focused, "*ahem* Sorry got distracted."


    Batman still frowning. "Why are you here?"


    "Help, like I said. You seem to be searching for comrades, Batman." Zion waved, pulling up the files that Batman had gathered. The files opened themselves, showing the cam pic of Meta-humans beings.


    A pic of a woman wearing swimsuit armor.


    A man in golden armor, with a trident in hand.


    A green humanoid fighting criminals.


    And many more.


    "At least you understand that you need comrades for this fight," Z.A.I praised. "But you are stupid enough that you refuse to use help that was given to you."


    Batman raised a brow.


    Z.A.I facepalmed, "The other supercomputer, details you need are stored in it." Z.A.I snapped his fingers, pulling up multiple files onto the screen. Batman narrowed his gaze at the files; many names on the files felt familiar.


    Batman used the trackpad to click on the files bringing them forward one by one. The first file was the most familiar.


    [


    Name: Kal-El / Clark Kent


    Alias: Superman


    Race: Kryptonian


    Occupation: Journalist


    Skills and Abilities:


    Super Strength: Capable of lifting massive weights up to the whole Earth.


    Flight: Mastery of controlled flight at incredible speed.


    Super Speed: Swift movements, allowing for rapid response and efficient multitasking.


    Invulnerability: Near immunity to conventional weaponry and extreme environmental conditions.


    Heat Vision: Ability to emit intense heat beams from his eyes at 6000¡ã Celsius.


    X-ray Vision: Penetrating vision to see through solid objects.


    Zoom Vision: Telescopic vision.


    Super Hearing: Enhanced auditory senses, capable of picking up faint sounds over great distances.


    Freeze Breath: Ability to exhale powerful gusts of freezing air.


    Weakness:


    Glowing Green Exotic Rock: Self-explanatory


    Red Ancient Fireball: Red Giant if you didn''t understand


    Magic: He doesn''t know how to do the trick.


    Background:


    Launched out into space as an infant, before his planet went Kaboom!!! Raised by good parents who taught him about truth, justice, and not to run around at night scaring people.


    Notes:


    Has a high sense of justice, will always try to do what''s right in any situation.


    Will try to talk before he punches you.


    Developing trust with Metropolis law enforcement for collaborative efforts.


    Limited international recognition; interactions primarily localized in Metropolis.


    ]


    [


    Name: Diana Prince


    Alias: Wonder Woman


    Race: Amazonian (demi-god)


    Skills and Abilities:


    Superhuman Strength: Enhanced strength surpassing ordinary humans.


    Combat Proficiency: Mastery in various forms of hand-to-hand combat and weaponry.


    Immortality: Will not die even after you turn to dust.


    Flight: Capable of controlled flight


    Weapons:


    Bracelets of Submission: Made from parts Aegis shield and virtually indestructible. Provides enhanced defenses.


    Godkiller Sword: Self-explanatory


    Aegis Shield: Again self-explanatory


    Lasso of truth: Golden lasso that will force you to tell the truth. Also used in combat.


    Background:


    An Amazonian princess who left home after being scammed by a white American man.


    Notes:


    Amazonian princess, trained in the ways of a warrior since birth.


    Worships the Greek gods.


    Still adjusting to modern culture. (Greek gods are not the best of examples.)


    Emphasis on diplomacy as well as physical prowess in conflict.


    ]


    [


    Name: Barry Allen


    Alias: The Flash


    Race: Human


    Occupation: Forensic scientist working for CCPD


    Power:


    Super Speed: Can move at extraordinary velocities, allowing for rapid travel and reaction.


    Background: Got his powers because lightning struck him. Trying to prove his father didn''t murk his mother. (He didn''t)


    Notes:


    Uses super speed for crime-fighting.


    Mainly focused on Central city.


    Can run faster than light speed, but be warned, it just makes things worse.


    ]


    [


    Name: Arthur Curry


    Alias: Aquaman


    Race: Atlantean


    Abilities:


    Atlantean Physiology: Enhanced strength, durability, and aquatic adaptation.


    Telepathic Communication: Can communicate with marine life.


    Trident Proficiency: Masterful use of Atlantean weaponry.


    Weapons:


    Trident of Atlan: Indestructible trident forged with magic.


    Background: Half human, half royal human-fish. Heir to the massive golden sea throne.


    Notes:


    Limited involvement in surface world affairs.


    Trying to make a balance with both his inheritance.


    ]


    [


    Name: Hal Jordan


    Alias: Green Lantern


    Race: Human


    Occupation: Test pilot for Ferris Aircraft, Green Lantern of the Green Lantern Corp


    Abilities:


    Power Ring: Green Ring that grants the user the ability to create green, light constructs.


    Flight: With the ring.


    Notes:


    Protector of the sector.


    Trying to balance his duties.


    Narcissistic. (Insecure)


    ]


    [


    Name: Dinah Lance


    Alias: Black Canary


    Race: Human (Meta-human)


    Occupation: Runs a judo in the crime alley, Gotham


    Skills and Abilities:


    Canary Cry: Powerful sonic scream capable of stunning or incapacitating foes. More, and you are dead.


    Martial Arts Mastery: Expert in various hand-to-hand combat styles. Will kick your butt.


    Acrobatics: Agile and skilled in acrobatic maneuvers.


    Background: Took the name of Black Canary to combat crime and injustice.


    Notes:


    Strong advocate for street-level justice and protection of the innocent


    Balancing her roles as a vigilante and her personal life. (She doesn''t even wear a mask!)


    ]


    [


    Name: Oliver Queen


    Alias: Green Arrow


    Race: Human


    Occupation: Playboy billionaire (sound familiar)


    Skills and Equipment:


    Master Archer: Exceptional skill with both a bow and various arrow types.


    Martial Art Proficiency: Trained in hand-to-hand combat.


    Strategic Mind: Tactical planning and resourceful in the field.


    Background: Became a vigilante after a humbling experience on a deserted island.


    Notes:


    Wealth and resources contribute to advanced archery equipment.


    Personal sense of justice involves targeting white-collar crime and societal issues.


    Navigating the challenges of maintaining a dual identity.


    ]


    [


    Name: J''onn J''onzz


    Alias: Martian Manhunter


    Abilities:


    Shape-Shifting: Can alter his appearance to mimic any form.


    Super Strength: Possesses enhanced strength.


    Telepathy: Reads minds and communicates mentally.


    Telekinesis: Can lift up to 100 tons.


    Flight: Capable of sustained flight.


    Intangibility: Ability to phase through solid objects.


    Background: Came to Earth to stop White Martians who defected after the Martian civil war. Stayed on earth as Mars only reminded him of the sacrifices made, his wife, and child.


    Notes:


    Struggling with the loss of family and seeks to find a sense of belonging on Earth.


    Cool guy to hang out with.


    ]


    The files above are short versions.

 33 - Martian talk

    The journey from Earth to Mars had been short yet wonderful. Traversing the cosmic void was calming, but it gave them time to be themselves, not tied to a planet and its inhabitants. Zion had always been fascinated with the cosmic wonders¡ªthe ever-expanding ocean of reality, the sea of nebulae, and the lights of stars. These were wonders that humans could never comprehend fully. No man can ever match the wonders of the Creator.


    The red planet was one of such wonders; this barren planet had once given birth to one of the strongest creatures of this universe. The burning Martians were anything but burning hatred, fury, and sorrow. Beings that thrived in suffering, of their own and others, ever chasing destruction and chaos. They might have become the second powerhouse if not for the Oan Guardians.


    Yet that lost power was within his grasp; he only needed to enter their city to obtain it. "What are you thinking?" Kara punched Zion''s shoulder. Zion snapped out of his thoughts and looked at Kara dazedly. "What?" "Nothing much, just thinking about the gains of this alliance," Zion answered, half-truthfully. Kara frowned; she had seen the evil smile on Zion''s face, his eyes greedy for power. She had seen it in many humans, ones that were always up to no good. She would keep an eye on him; Zion might be a Kryptonian now, but she was still stronger.


    As Zion and Kara descended from the sky, the Martian atmosphere enveloped them. The thin atmosphere of the delicate planet brushed past in ghostly whispers. The gravity lightly tugged at their bodies; it was gentler than that of Earth. The vast expanse of reddish-brown shades, the landscape extending like a surreal painting, with mesas and craters weaving a story of cosmic forces at play. A gentle breeze stirs the fine particles, creating a dance of red dust that shimmers in the thin atmosphere.


    The surface, coarse yet strangely captivating, cradles their boots, marking their arrival at Mars. Zion and Kara strode forward, their steps light, keeping to the ground, their footprints marking the beginning of their journey. "Kara, come near," Zion, in his joy, decided to take a picture. "Let''s take a picture." He took out the smartphone he had built for his personal use. The black square looked unlike any smartphone, but its 360-degree image rendering would capture this moment perfectly. Kara just stood still, causing Zion to move near. He lifted the black square, and the object did a light show as it scanned their surroundings and recorded it into its memories. With the picture taken, he lightly kicked off the surface and flew in a certain direction, with Kara following behind.


    Zion had scanned Mars''s surface with his X-ray vision before entry. He knew where the capital city, Ma''aleca''andra, was. Zion didn''t want to delay any longer and flew towards the nearest opening to the cavern underneath. He followed the tunnels and descended deep until he arrived at a vast expanse inside the earth. The Martian city greeted them with a blend of towering structures and intricate networks, reflecting a society that had flourished over eons. The air crackled with an energy unfamiliar to Earth, hinting at the unique nature of Martian technology and culture.


    Landing smoothly among the crowd, Zion and Kara observed the many Martians going about their daily activities. Some in their natural Martian form, while some resembling humans with green or white skin. The Martian citizens curiously observed the arrival of these extraterrestrial visitors, their eyes reflecting a mix of intrigue and caution.


    Zion and Kara continued their journey uninterrupted, their presence already causing a stir in Martian society. News in the psychic society spread very, very fast. Zion, knowing that their arrival would have already reached their King and Queen, decided to take his time to tour his future neighborhood. He, followed by Kara, strolled the city streets. Many Martians pointed fingers at them, some cautious, the older ones, while some tried to approach only to be stopped by the spear-pointing Martians, the Manhunters. It was a platoon of Martian police that arrived to deal with their presence. The Green Martians with a red X and tight uniform pointed their spears at Zion and Kara. Zion just stopped and smiled at them; he could feel that they were trying to form a psychic link with their minds only to be blocked by the wall of Bio-field. This natural electric field was protecting their brain waves; normally, this was not possible for humans as they have zero control over their bio-electric fields.


    "I am Zion, this is Kara," Zion introduced, his voice deepened by the mask. "We come in peace, seeking to collaborate for the benefits of both worlds." "Extraterrestrial visitors are not a common sight. State your purpose for the unannounced visit, Zion of?" The Martian officer inquired, halting the psychic infiltration. "Zion of Earth and Kara Zor-El of Krypton, we are here to propose an alliance. We believe that it will brighten up the future of both worlds," Zion elaborated undeterred by the show of force. The Martian officer, unmoved, signaled to his troops to hold their ground. They would not let the visitor in without confirmation. Zion, realizing the need to bridge the gap, continued to address the Martian officer. "To assure you of our sincerity, I offer access to my mind. You can see for yourselves the truth behind our mission." The Martian officer hesitated, exchanging a glance with his fellow soldiers. After a moment of silent deliberation, he nodded, indicating his acceptance of Zion''s proposal. "Very well, Zion of Earth. Let the truth be revealed."


    The atmosphere shifted as the Martian officer stepped forward. Zion, with a composed demeanor, welcomed the mental probing. Kara stood firm to the side, her thoughts still shielded from the Martian telepaths. In the mindscape, memories unfolded like a cosmic tapestry¡ªimages of Zion''s childhood, the journey after he received his power, and the genuine desire to make Mars a shared home. The telepath, immersed in Zion''s thoughts, discovered the authenticity of Zion''s request. The Martian officer, having witnessed the truth, lowered his guard. "Their intentions are genuine. They seek unity, not conquest." The pointed weapons were lowered, and a sense of understanding permeated the air. The Martian officer, with a nod of approval, declared, "You may proceed. We will escort you to the royal palace. The king and queen will decide the fate of your proposal." Zion sighed in relief; he was expecting the Martians to be more hardheaded with all their racial differences. His plan B not coming to fruition was a pleasant thing. Zion and Kara, standing amidst the Martian force, continued their journey towards the palace. Escorted through the bustling Martian capital, Zion and Kara followed the Martian officer towards the regal spires of the royal palace. The Martian citizens, once skeptical, now observed the Kryptonians with a mix of curiosity and something similar to acceptance.


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    As the grand doors of the palace swung open, revealing the opulent interior, Zion and Kara found themselves standing before the Martian King and Queen. The royal couple, adorned in resplendent attire, regarded the visitors with a combination of regal poise and genuine interest. The queen, her eyes reflecting Martianwisdom, spoke, "Your arrival has stirred the winds of change, Zion of Earth. Speak your purpose!" Zion bowed respectfully, acknowledging the Martian monarchy. "We come to extend an invitation to an alliance." The king, a figure of stoic presence, inquired, "Between Humans and Martians?" "No," Zion''s words stunned the monarchs. "Humans are not yet ready to meet another intelligent race; they are still divided."


    Zion, with conviction in his voice, began to articulate his plan, "I came here to extend a helping hand to Mars. I have the technology and powers to make this barren planet more habitable. I believe that you desire to see the night sky than the dark cavern you are imprisoning yourselves in. So, form an alliance with me, and together we shall make a brighter future for M''arzz."


    "Bold words, Human," The king''s commanding presence accompanied his intent. "What guarantees do you offer that this alliance will not disturb the delicate balance of our world?" Zion stepped forward, his gaze meeting the King''s. "My guarantee lies in the fact that I really don''t like the barren scenery of this planet to be my lab. I also offer my knowledge, technology, and strength as long as the Martians need it."


    The Martian King, after a thoughtful pause, spoke, "Your proposal is audacious, yet intriguing. The prospect of transforming M''arzz into a haven for Martians is a vision worthy of consideration." The queen, her gaze piercing yet contemplative, added, "But words alone cannot forge an alliance. Actions will speak louder. How do you propose to embark on such a monumental endeavor?" Zion responded, "I am not here to offer flowery words but to show my sincerity." Zion pulled the sunstone from his pocket. "This is a Kryptonian data crystal. It has the ability to self-replicate and create crystalline structures in a matter of minutes. This will be the dawn of the bright days of M''arzz. With this crystal and my powers, the terraformation of M''arzz will begin, and in a decade M''arzz would be unrecognizable from its past barrenness. And to guarantee that this process is successful, me and my friend will remain on M''arzz."


    Zion pocketed the sunstone, "For more context." He slapped the Omnitrix on his waist. The golden flash filled the hall, and Zion''s Kryptonian form vanished, replaced by a white 8-foot tall humanoid with lengthy arms and long fingers, a diamond-shaped face. Zion looked down and checked his body, the weird white bipedal creature. "Hey, I am white now," Zion quipped as he turned to Kara, who didn''t understand his joke. Zion just shrugged off Kara''s unsportsmanship and turned to the King and the Queen. He crossed his arms on his chest and performed the Martian greeting. "I hope for our continuous collaboration."


    The king and the queen, snapped out of the shock, their minds filled with questions, ''How did you turn into a Martian?'' The queen spoke through the psychic link, naturally like how she would to any other Martian. She knew that the Martian before was not a shape-shifter because she could sense the familiar mind touch of Martians. "My powers, my queen. I showed it to you to prove my sincerity about this alliance. As I am of the Martian race now, albeit a bit white," Zion responded. Naturally, the Queen didn''t understand the human quip. He didn''t know why the Omnitrix chose an A''ashenn, but he shall preach these creatures about love and equality.


    The king quietly observed the A''ashenn, his mind lost in thought. "But why an A''ashenn?" The king asked, snapping out of his pondering. Zion scratched his chin as he thought about how to preach. "Well, my powers allow me to transform into the peak of the respective species that I transform into, but I doubt my skin color got to do anything with it. G''arrunn and A''ashenn only differ by the pigment of their skin; they are like humans and how we have different skin color."


    The king nodded, "Yes, the strife due to the color of the skin was not unique to Martians. You, humans, have a similar history, and we too are trying to end this division." The king breathed a heavy sigh. Zion, fully knowing their predicament, quipped, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for all is one in Jesus Christ." The king not understanding the quote asked, "What are you saying, human?" "Everyone is equal before GOD. Division and oppression will only bring forth destruction and chaos," Zion responded.


    "Wise words," The kings agreed, "I have been trying to end the disparity between the G''arrunn and A''ashenn, but it is harder than I imagined." "We cannot change the past, but we can strive to make a brighter future. And I am here to help," Zion assured. The king nodded, "Right, then we shall form an alliance. For the betterment of The Martians as a whole, and you desire for?" The king noticed that they never learned what Zion wanted for this alliance. "A piece of land for my lab and a bioship?" Zion stated his price; after all, he was here for it.


    The king, confused, "Is that all you need?" He wasn''t expecting his future ally to only demand a piece of land and a bioship. They could afford these conditions. Zion gave an affirming nod, "Yes, but the lands should be big enough to accommodate my lab." "We can afford those conditions," The queen agreed. "So, we shall officially form an alliance with Zion from Earth," The king announced through his psychic link. Zion turned and gave Kara a thumbs up.

 34 - Changes

    The dimly lit bar buzzed with conversations, glasses clinking, and occasional bursts of laughter. Dinah Lance, her blonde hair cascading over her shoulders, sat perched on a barstool, her eyes scanning the room with a mixture of vigilance and detached interest. The soft glow of neon lights highlighted the sleek black leather jacket she wore, and her net leggings added a touch of mystique to her ensemble.


    As she took a sip from her drink, a mysterious smile played on her lips. The bartender, a middle-aged man with a weathered face, glanced her way and nodded in acknowledgment. The air in the bar was thick with a mix of excitement and tension, creating an atmosphere that Black Canary had become familiar with over the years.


    A man in a worn-out suit sidled up to her, a cigarette dangling from his fingers. "You new around here, sweetheart?" he asked, eyeing her with a mix of curiosity and arrogance.


    Black Canary turned to him, her blue eyes locking onto his. "Just passing through," she replied, her voice carrying a subtle edge that hinted at a life filled with both danger and secrets.


    The man chuckled, seemingly unbothered by the implied warning. "Well, you picked an interesting place for a pit stop."


    Before the conversation could delve any further, a commotion erupted near the entrance. A group of rowdy patrons, fueled by alcohol and bravado, engaged in a heated argument. Black Canary''s gaze flickered toward the disturbance, a hint of weariness in her eyes.


    As the tension escalated, she decided it was time to make her exit. She gracefully slid off the barstool, leaving some bills to cover her drink. The man in the suit continued to watch her, a mix of disappointment and intrigue etched on his face.


    Making her way through the now chaotic bar, Black Canary reached the door and stepped out into the cool night air. The neon lights spilled onto the wet pavement, creating an otherworldly glow in the dark alley where her sleek motorcycle awaited. The low growl of the engine echoed through the narrow space as she straddled the bike, the leather jacket hugging her form.


    Just as she was about to ride into the shadows, a voice echoed from the alley''s entrance. "Dinah Lance!"


    The sound of her real name made Black Canary pause, her hand gripping the handlebar. The distant sound of footsteps echoed in the alley, growing steadily louder until a man in black emerged from the shadows, a cowl covered his face, a bat symbol adorned his chest, his iconic cape billowing in the night breeze. Black Canary''s eyes narrowed as she recognized the silhouette, a mix of surprise and wariness in her expression.


    "Batman," she acknowledged, her voice neutral but tinged with a hint of skepticism. "What brings you here?"


    Batman''s cowl cast shadows over his steely gaze as he approached. "Dinah, we''ve got a problem," he said, his tone grave. "It''s not just the city. It''s something bigger¡ªan existential threat."


    Black Canary arched an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Existential threat? You don''t strike me as the doomsday prophecy type."


    Batman sighed, a rare display of vulnerability. "This is different. There''s an invasion on the horizon, one that threatens not just Gotham, but the entire world. We need every capable fighter we can get, and you''re one of the best."


    Black Canary leaned against her motorcycle, crossing her arms. "Why should I believe you? And why me? There are plenty of capes in this city."


    Batman met her gaze, his eyes piercing through the darkness. "Because you''re not just a cape. You''re a fighter, and you''ve faced things most can''t even comprehend. This threat requires someone with your skills and experience."


    A moment of silence hung in the air as Black Canary considered Batman''s words. The gravity of the situation weighed on her, and she couldn''t ignore the urgency in his voice.


    "I''m not one to shy away from a fight," she finally said, a determined glint in her eyes. "But I work alone. No teams, no strings attached."


    Batman nodded, understanding the terms. "We don''t have much time to play alone; this is bigger than both of us. I''ll fill you in on the details, and then we need to prepare. The invasion is imminent, and we''re going to need every soldier, every ounce of strength and skill we can muster."


    As the two heroes stood in the dark alley, a silent agreement passed between them.


    The moon cast an ethereal glow over Star City as the mysterious archer, clad in a sleek green outfit, traversed the rooftops with unparalleled agility. His every movement seemed calculated, a dance with the night as he leaped effortlessly from one building to another. The bow slung across his back hinted at a formidable skill set, and the quiver of arrows rattled softly with each fluid motion.


    Star City sprawled beneath the vigilant gaze of Green Arrow as he bounded effortlessly from rooftop to rooftop. The night air was thick with a sense of purpose as he surveyed the city he had sworn to protect. His green hood obscured most of his face, leaving only his determined eyes visible.


    Coming to a sudden halt, he crouched on the edge of a rooftop, the city skyline stretching out before him. His keen eyes scanned the shadows, a sense of alertness etched on his features. Star City, despite its apparent tranquility, held secrets in its dark corners, and this vigilante was attuned to the subtle shifts in the night.


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    With a swift and silent turn, he notched an arrow and pointed it into the shadows. The faint sound of footsteps reached his ears, and he tensed, ready for whatever might emerge. From the darkness, a figure materialized¡ªBatman, dressed in darkness, with his iconic cape billowing.


    Green Arrow''s eyes narrowed, the tension palpable. "Batman?" he relaxed, confusion evident in his voice.


    Batman, ever stoic, met Green Arrow''s gaze. "Green Arrow, I am assembling a team. We''re facing a threat beyond our usual scope, and I believe we can''t face it alone."


    Green Arrow kept his bow trained on Batman, suspicion etched on his face. "Your criminals got smarter?"


    Batman remained undeterred. "There''s an invasion on the horizon¡ªsomething big, and we need every capable fighter we can get."


    Green Arrow hesitated, the gravity of the situation weighing on him. "Invasion? You expect me to believe that?"


    Batman''s gaze didn''t waver. "Believe it or not, it''s happening. It''s not just our cities, but the whole planet is in danger. We don''t have time for introductions or doubts. We need to act."


    Green Arrow lowered his bow, the intensity of the situation sinking in. "Fine. But this doesn''t mean I trust you."


    Batman nodded, a hint of acknowledgment in his eyes. "Trust is earned. We can sort out the rest later."


    With an unspoken understanding, the two heroes leaped from the rooftop, their first meeting marking the beginning of an alliance forged in the crucible of an impending invasion.


    ...


    The city lights glittered below as the night descended upon Metropolis. Clark Kent, having just returned home from a long day at the Daily Planet and numerous Superman rescues, felt the exhaustion settling in. His apartment, normally a refuge, now felt like a cocoon where he could briefly escape the constant demands of being a hero.


    As he unwound from his day, contemplating a modest dinner, a subtle unease crept over him. Superman''s keen senses tingled with the awareness that something wasn''t quite right. Despite the city''s usual symphony of sounds, a dissonance lingered in the air.


    Abruptly, a knock at the door shattered the quiet. Clark approached, opening it to find a figure shrouded in shadows. Batman stood on his doorstep, his iconic cowl concealing most of his face.


    "Superman," Batman acknowledged in his gravelly voice. "We need to talk."


    Clark''s brow furrowed with surprise. "How... did you?"


    "I have my ways," Batman replied cryptically.


    Sensing the urgency in Batman''s demeanor, Clark invited him in. As they stood in the apartment, Batman wasted no time.


    "There''s an invasion coming. Not just in Metropolis but the whole world. It''s a threat beyond anything you''ve faced before," Batman explained, his voice stern.


    Superman''s fatigue was momentarily forgotten as the gravity of Batman''s words sunk in. "An invasion? What are we dealing with?"


    "I don''t know, yet. Zion only provided a warning note," Batman answered.


    Superman raised an eyebrow at the name, "Zion?"


    "Yes," Batman answered curtly.


    Superman rubbed his head temples, his exhaustion returning. "He didn''t say a word, even before he left to Mars."


    Batman noted the information but kept it to himself. He understood why Superman wasn''t informed of Zion''s ''condition.''


    "The whole planet is in danger. We need to work together to face this," Batman asserted.


    Superman nodded, a newfound determination igniting in his eyes. "I''m in. Let''s save the world."


    As the two heroes prepared to confront the looming invasion, the city lights continued to twinkle below, oblivious to the impending storm that threatened to engulf Metropolis and Gotham alike.


    ...


    The hum of the city outside Middleton set the backdrop as John Jones, the Martian Manhunter, returned to his modest apartment. He closed the door behind him, and with a casual gesture, his humanoid form shifted seamlessly into his true Martian state. The green-skinned, red-eyed alien moved with an otherworldly grace, navigating his living space as if it were an extension of himself.


    John hung his outer coat on the hanger, his mind momentarily at ease. The day had been long, and the mundane act of returning home was a welcome respite from the responsibilities that came with being his kind on Earth.


    As he approached the fridge, the beacon of comfort awaited him ¡ª a pack of Oreos. John indulged in this earthly delight, savoring the familiar taste that connected him to the human side of his identity and his Martian addiction.


    Suddenly, a voice cut through the silence of his apartment. "J''onn J''onzz, the Martian Manhunter."


    Startled, John turned, his eyes locking onto the shadowy figure that emerged from the corners of the room. Batman, the Dark Knight, stood in the dim light, his cape billowing like a silent specter.


    "How do you know my real name?" J''onn asked, his Martian senses on full alert.


    Batman''s cowl obscured most of his face, leaving only his steely gaze visible. "I know things. We need to talk."


    J''onn, unable to read Batman''s mind, felt a mixture of curiosity and caution. Batman wasted no time in revealing the reason for his unexpected visit ¡ª an invasion that threatened not just Earth but the entire existence.


    "There''s a threat coming, J''onn. Something beyond our understanding. We need all our strength to battle it. I''ve come to invite you to join the fight," Batman explained, the urgency in his voice cutting through the stillness.


    J''onn, realizing the gravity of the situation, set aside his Oreo and nodded. "I''m in. Tell me more."


    ...


    Central City hummed with energy as Barry Allen, the Scarlet Speedster known as The Flash, streaked through the city streets. After a long day of thwarting crime and saving lives, Barry finally arrived at his apartment, eager to unwind and enjoy a moment of respite.


    He phased through the door with a whoosh of air, shedding his red suit in a blur of motion. Barry Allen, now in his civilian clothes, moved with the same speed, but his demeanor shifted from superhero to an everyday guy.


    Opening the fridge, Barry''s hand moved at a speed that left only a blur, retrieving a cold soda. He took a moment to savor the refreshing drink, the fizz momentarily distracting him from the chaos of the outside world.


    However, his moment of relaxation was interrupted by a voice that seemed to cut through the air itself. "Barry Allen, The Flash."


    Barry turned, his senses heightened. Batman stood in the shadows, his presence barely a whisper until he chose to reveal himself.


    "How do you know who I am?" Barry asked, a mixture of surprise and wariness in his voice.


    Batman, a silent enigma, stepped forward. "I know things. We need to talk."


    As Barry set the soda aside, Batman wasted no time in divulging the reason for his visit ¡ª an imminent invasion that threatened the very existence of their world.


    "There''s a force coming, Barry. We need fast hands on our deck. I''ve come to invite you to join the fight," Batman explained, his words carrying the weight of urgency.


    Barry, understanding the gravity of the situation, nodded. "I''m in. Tell me what we''re up against."

 35 - Taking Half

    -Mars-


    "Here?"


    "Yes."


    "How deep?"


    "To the core."


    "Won''t it destabilize¡ª"


    "Kara, just trust me. And don''t hit the core," Zion cut off Kara.


    Zion, after giving the details of the plan, dragged Kara with him to the other side of the planet to start his plan. The king also sent his son to assist and observe them. The red Martian prince, J''emm J''axx, assisted with two guards, one of whom was the Martian officer who met Zion, and another royal manhunter.


    "Let''s move back, Prince," Zion said, distancing himself from Kara.


    Zion floated away from Kara with the other Martians, giving her enough space to use her heat vision without a care. The Martians didn''t question much about the plan, as their king approved of it, and they were shared with the details.


    The king was baffled when he gained knowledge of Zion''s audacious plan, but he approved nonetheless. So, the Martians had no qualms with Zion digging a hole in their planet.


    Kara used her X-ray vision to locate the Mars core, blasting the earth with her highly powered heat vision. The ground exploded before Kara''s heat vision started to cut through the crust. It was like a knife through butter.


    The Martians recoiled at the massive heat and the surprising power. Two hot red pillars carving through their planet was a surreal view for them to digest. They were awestruck and frightened by the powers of their newfound allies.


    ''Such power!'' J''emm exclaimed in awe.


    ''Just don''t piss her off, and you will be safe,'' Zion quipped.


    ''I shall take it to mind.'' But J''emm was not grateful for the advice.


    "Why am I stuck with you people?" Zion shook his head in dismay.


    Zion didn''t comment more as they watched Kara burn a hole in Mars. Kara took small rests between her blasts to relax her eyes and continued again. This repeated a few times before she reached the required distance. She massaged her eyes as she felt the tiredness in her body; the heat vision took too much of her energy.


    "Rest up; I will handle the rest," Zion voiced as he flew toward the molten earth.


    The diameter of the hole was big enough to fit a bulky human without trouble. Zion pulled the sunstone from his pocket and nonchalantly chucked it in. The crystal fell straight without a clatter. Zion waited for minutes, and the minutes passed, causing Zion to be impatient.


    The distance to the core of the planet was a long way down, 3,389 km straight down. Zion, bored, kept changing his body structure, turning into Superman, the grumpy Batman, Wonder Woman, and checked his assets, earning a glare from Kara.


    He then turned to the prince, gesturing him to approach. He pushed the guards back, putting his hand around the young prince''s shoulders. He whispered into the prince''s mind, hiding it from the guards.


    ''You like that girl, S''yraa S''mitt,'' Zion wiggled his eyebrows.


    ''How did you?" The young prince was shocked.


    Zion gave a knowing smile, ''I know things, J''emm. I like that you are open-minded, don''t have any prejudice. I will support you in your goal to dissolve the caste system in Mars. If you need any help, you can come find me."


    ''Thank you.''


    ''Don''t sweat it," Zion waved him off.


    ''What about you and the lady?'' The prince questioned.


    Zion glanced at Kara, who was now outside the atmosphere, absorbing sunlight. ''It''s complicated.''


    ''I understand."


    ''So, when are you going to introduce her to the family?''


    ''We are not ready to ¡ª''


    The conversation, like a link of chains, led to another. Zion learned about the inner workings of the Martian community, and J''emm learned about human culture. They conversed until the whole of Mars shook, an earthquake that affected the planet. The massive earthquake caused mass panic in Martian cities, but Zion grinned.


    The tremor continued for a minute before crystal tendrils burst forth from the earth. The crystal tendrils intervened, creating a majestic tower that pierced the sky. The tower had a gothic design with a massive crystal on its top.


    The tower reaching its zenith pulsed with energy.


    Waves of light spread across the land, triggering new crystalline structures to rise. From the original tower''s center, tendrils rushed out, creating a surreal cityscape of interconnected spires. The air hummed with the creation as these structures formed a harmonious balance with the red sand of Mars, sticking out like a sore thumb.


    The crystalline structure that covered the expanse of the city hummed with power and mystery. Kara, from outer space, got a full view of the city. The whole city of white was a gothic-style castle, pointy towers, edgy design, and weird statues.


    And the whole community that was observing Mars was going wild.


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    Zion, watching his fortress, was proud of his creation. He had embodied Kryptonian technology and teenage dream to build them all into this Frankenstein''s castle, where the horrors and dreams of men come into being. With a joyous smile, he rushed to the tower in the middle, a skip in his step.


    The Martians followed him, the bright white crystalline structure striking awe in them. The prince traced his fingers on the smooth surface, feeling the cool of the crystal. The intricacies of this technology amazed them to no end.


    Zion stood before the massive gothic gate, with its pointed arches, intricate tracery, and ornate detailing. The spiral designs, pointy tips, edgy design, and the crystal gargoyle added more to the gothic tower''s design. Zion pressed his hands on it, lighting up the crystal adorning the gate.


    With the dramatic light effect, the gate opened, of course with background music playing. Zion walked in like the king of the tower, or the high Wizard of the tower, his eyes scanning the interiors. A long corridor extended to the center, the walls ornamented with intricate patterns, its ceiling mimicking the cosmic canvas. The beauty was masterful architecture, depicting the heart of a great artisan.


    Zion, adoring his work, walked to the center, a spiral staircase carved in crystal spiraled into the unknown. In the middle hovered a chandelier, its each shard groups depicting the constellations. Zion took his first step on the stairs, lighting it up in an intricate tapestry that resonated with the tower. He slowly climbed each step, mesmerized by its beauty.


    But after adoring the stairs, he took flight, quickly rising through the middle. His fingers flicked the hovering crystal shards, causing a beautiful reaction. The shards glittered like starlight colliding in a melodious symphony.


    Zion floated above after causing a beautiful chaos. The Martians followed, still mesmerized by the sheer beauty of this tower. They couldn''t believe such a structure was created in minutes. They didn''t know that Kryptonian sunstone could do far more than build structures.


    Zion arrived on the top floor, the control room for the whole city. It was a bit clich¨¦ to have the whole control room in the highest point in the city, that gets stuck down first. But Zion wasn''t one to fully think through his choices, as long as it ended up cool.


    Zion walked in through the door undelayed, entering a whole different world. Gone were the Gothic style, and in were the cyberpunk. Holograms floated about, showing many different locations in the city. Zion walked up to the smooth control panel with no buttons, his hands pressed against them prompting holographic controls to appear around his hands.


    Zion, now online, navigated through the tower system with natural ease. He knew of each and every function he basically designed. He quickly checked through the integrity and the functionality of the Castle. The castle was perfect and functional without flaw in its creation.


    The castle was the first half of the terraforming.


    Zion then navigated, activating what he called the [World Changer]. It was a big name for the device but it stuck to its functions, changing the world. Zion quickly skimmed through to check for any bugs in programs. This was his way of making sure things go right.


    The Martians entered the control room as they gazed around the holograms afloat. They tried to read the words, but they were some ruins that they didn''t understand. Zion, unbothered, kept to the controls, letting the Martians have their tour.


    Zion skimmed through the hundreds of complicated programs, checking multiple components at a time. He was grateful to be a Martian now; he could literally alter his brain to help with the processing.


    ...


    - Kara on the other side. -


    She was having a stroll through the memory lane as she scanned the city of its edginess. She couldn''t believe that Kryptonian''s advanced tech would be used to create what a human would call a vampire''s castle.


    This was so edgy.


    But the castle still held an allure beauty incomparable to the symmetric buildings of Metropolis. Its intricacy evoked deep thoughts like a magnificent art, which it was. This beat city beat all the sci-fi cities that could have been built.


    She traced her fingers on the smooth walls, feeling the familiar sensation that she had lost. The memories buried deep within her mind resurfaced.


    ''Kara, you got to understand the consequences,'' chided her mother.


    ''C''mon, she only tried to help,'' her father came to her rescue, like always.


    ..


    ''Dad, can you read me a bedtime story?'' She asked her father.


    ''Okay, anything for my daughter,'' Her father pulled the storybook he had read to her a thousand times.


    ..


    ''Hey, did you finish your assignment?'' Asked her friend.


    ''I did,'' she answered.


    ..


    ''You are flying, Kal-El'' Kara lifted her infant cousin.


    Kal-El only giggled in joy.


    ..


    ..


    ''Should we really do this?'' Her mother cried, for the first time she had ever seen.


    ''We must, to protect her,'' Her father''s voice was more determined than she ever heard.


    ..


    ''Goodbye, my precious daughter. You were the pride of my life.'' Her mother kissed her forehead.


    ''You will be safe, my star. Rao will protect you.'' Her father assured.


    ..


    Kara closed her eyes in reminiscent, wiped the tears forming in her eyes. The memories that gave her strength, empowered her through her dark times, hope for a better tomorrow. It was the memories of her home that kept her going through the darkest hours.


    She missed her mother.


    She missed her father.


    She missed their warmth.


    She could never return.


    She could never...


    She was now in an unfamiliar world with a duty to protect.


    Kara opened her eyes determined, the emotional rollercoaster due to the recent incidents have shaken her wall. But the walls were back up, ready to tackle all problems. Kara didn''t know, or fully understand yet, that this was her home now.


    But her eyes caught something on her face.


    ...


    Zion completed his inspections; the system was solid, unlike the Swiss cheese that''s full of holes. The castle was ready and good to go. He was just hoping that Martians won''t come to war after he stole half of the planet.


    Don''t mind him; he already informed he needed a big piece of land; it''s just half of the planet, no biggie. Zion''s fingers danced on the honorific controls, starting the process of [Mechmorphing]. Zion pressed the big red button, prompting a column to rise from the ground next to him.


    The white column had a hole carved through it.


    Zion morphed his body; the Omnitrix appeared in his palm. He placed his hands in and white crystals grew, sealing his hand. Zion then watched as golden circuitry lines lit up on the column; the Omnitrix was connected.


    "What are you doing?" J''emm questioned, curiosity in his voice.


    Zion turned, his hands still captured in the column. "Just accelerating the process."


    The white tower''s giant crystal lit up like a disco ball, a party for the Martians; they won''t be dancing though. The blinding golden light became the second sun in the nights of Mars. The white city, now covered in circuitry lines, hummed to life, Massive Atomic engine stored in its depth kicking to life.


    The amount of energy the whole castle would be enough to bomb the solar system, but the energy was directed to the Mechmorpher in the basement. The city that stretched to the core of the planet began its work, starting the transformation from the core of the planet.


    The core was slowly swallowed by the titanic structure, replacing it with an artificial core, a black spear sat in the place of the original core. Of course, this caused some problems as subterranean tunnels collapsed on itself, lava boiled, and animals ran wild.


    The planet''s magnetic field also shifted a bit, giving birth to giant storms. The Martian king panicked, but he kept his cool and calmed down his citizens through the psychic link by informing them of what was happening to their planet.


    This subdued the panic but raised many questions from the opportunists.


    The white Martians'' coup was about to happen; the rebelling white Martians were grouped and ready before a message arrived at their head. The news was revolutionary, but it also managed to stop them from couping.


    *****


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 36 - Wars

    J''emm J''axx burst into the throne chamber, urgency propelling him forward.


    The atmosphere in the hall crackled with tension as the M''arzz council gathered to address the aftermath of a recent earthquake. The grand hall, a testament to Martian architecture, now served as the stage for the high meeting.


    King S''turnn J''axx, a formidable figure with monarchical powers, sat on the throne, flanked by Queen Regent J''arlia J''axx. The room buzzed with discussions about the quake when J''emm interrupted, urgency etched across his face.


    "Father, Mother," J''emm''s voice echoed through the vast chamber, cutting through the regal atmosphere. The nobility turned their attention to the prince, sensing the gravity of the situation. His eyes, ablaze with urgency, met those of his parents, a silent plea for immediate action.


    However, R''ess E''dda, the Martian Consul-General, sternly intervened, raising a hand to halt the young prince. "This is not the time for your interruptions, J''emm. We are discussing the earthquake that struck barely an hour ago. The seismic aftershocks are of paramount concern."


    "We''ve been betrayed. Zion, the one who pledged assistance, had ulterior motives. He proposed terraforming Mars, but it was a deception. His true intent is to exploit our vulnerabilities," J''emm declared, his words carrying the weight of betrayal.


    King S''turnn''s brow furrowed in disbelief. As a telepathic force, he had checked Zion''s mind and found nothing that would threaten the Martians. "I probed Zion''s thoughts myself. There was no indication of malice or deceit. How could this be?"


    R''ess E''dda scoffed vindictively. "I told you not to trust that shape-shifter. Now he is backstabbing us."


    "It is not time to argue, Sir R''ess," J''emm intervened, "We need to prepare for the oncoming invasion!"


    "J''emm, where are R''ohh K''arr and Zyrra K''elthar?" King S''turnn questioned, noticing the absence of the M''hontrrs. The leading M''hontrr R''ohh K''arr''s absence creating a bad premonition.


    J''emm, hearing his father''s question, could only lower his head in shame, but he had to answer. They need to know. "They helped me escape so I could inform you of his betrayal. M''hontrrs R''ohh K''arr and Zyrra K''elthar stopped Zion from capturing all of us and attacking us unnoticed."


    The Martians frowned, in their own biological way, at J''emm''s answer. They couldn''t believe one of their best M''hontrr couldn''t stop the alien and had to resort to this. They could see how powerful the enemy could be.


    Yet King S''turnn was calm. He was a king, and they had already dealt with their own Civil war before, and now they had to fight another war with an invader. He analyzed the situation. It was time to prepare for war, and he could use it to unite his people as one.


    "Order J''onn J''onzz to return; his home needs his service again," King S''turnn declared calmly. "We will prepare for war. J''emm, show us what you saw?"


    Meeting his father''s gaze, J''emm obliged by opening his mind and revealing everything that transpired.


    ***


    Zion was calmly watching the transformation happen, a small smile on his lips. His gaze stale as he watched the Martian ground transform.


    The golden lines covered the whole marble city, drowning it in its ethereal glow. But the show was not yet done. The outer towers glowed with power as an otherworldly force took control.


    J''emm moved next to Zion, his gaze never moving from the holograms displaying the changes. He could feel the planet turn, the very earth shaking, the tower trembling. His home would never be the same after this, and he was standing in its epicenter.


    J''emm scrutinized the image, trying to comprehend the process, but his mind was shaken by the image. This hologram showed what was happening outside the walls of this crystal city, and the view shocked him to his core.


    The ground had turned pitch black, and the black was spreading like a plague. The rust-red sands of M''arzz were slowly turning into a pitch-black abyss, and the black plague extended its tendrils out, infecting the uninfected areas. The whole grounds around the city were turning black fast, with only the crystal city glowing golden.


    "What is happening?" J''emm questioned, his voice shaky.


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    The guards felt the worry in his voice, causing M''hontrr R''ohh K''arr to move forward to guard the prince, and his subordinate, Zyrra K''elthar, followed closely. Their gazes collectively focused on the man of the subject.


    Zion turned to them at their question, his smile never leaving his lips, yet his eyes were cold. Zion''s eyes focused on them, sending the chills of a predator''s gaze. He smiled, his canines a bit more visible, "A change, Prince J''emm, a much-needed one for Martians."


    Zion lifted his free hand, pointing it at J''emm. "It''s time for you to carry your burden."


    ***


    Zion projected his telekinesis around J''emm, locking him in a suffocating bubble and pulled him closer.


    J''emm was stunned, shocked at the force that held him. J''emm tried to break free using his own telekinesis, but the force around him didn''t even budge. The psychic field clutching him was stronger than anything he ever felt, even R''ohh K''arr''s, during training.


    "Why are you doing this?" J''emm struggled with his words, his eyes focused on Zion.


    What met his gaze were eyes with no emotions behind. "You will understand wh-"


    But before Zion could finish, a powerful force slammed into him, pushing him back. Zion stumbled back, his hold on J''emm loosening, his other hand still stuck in the crystal cylinder. Zion steadied himself but felt his hold on J''emm break; he didn''t need to look to know the M''hontrrs had broken his hold.


    "You have betrayed our trust," R''ohh K''arr stated with a severe tone as he stepped forward. He protected J''emm behind him.


    Zion didn''t respond and slammed the full force of his psychic field on R''ohh K''arr and used his other hand to attack Zyrra K''elthar by transforming it into a tentacle. The M''hontrrs reacted swiftly in response by dodging the attack.


    R''ohh K''arr rolled to the side, avoiding the attack and used his own to attack Zion''s psyche, but was met with a mental wall. Undeterred, he quickly moved in. R''ohh K''arr morphed into a rhino-looking creature and charged at Zion.


    Zyrra K''elthar, who dodged Zion''s tentacle attack, noticed R''ohh K''arr''s charge and assisted him by transforming into a giant and clutching Zion''s hand down. Zion, now with no free arm to hold, watched as R''ohh K''arr charged at him like a rhino with his horns pointed at him. He pushed R''ohh K''arr with his telekinesis, but R''ohh K''arr defended himself with ease while using the brute charge to his advantage.


    R''ohh K''arr, unperturbed, slammed into Zion, bursting him like a bubble. Zion''s flesh torn, his chest ripped, cleaved into by giant horns. R''ohh K''arr halted his charge, sliding on the crystal floor, and turned back to the shredded Zion.


    "Hmm," he hummed to himself, feeling that something was afoot.


    And not to his surprise, the small pieces of Zion floated back to the crystal where his hand was still imprisoned. His other hand lifted Zyrra K''elthar and slammed him on the hard, cold floor, loosening his grip, and joined the morphing rest.


    R''ohh K''arr took a step back, wary growing in his heart. He turned to Zyrra K''elthar, who struggled to stand, and J''emm, who was observing everything with shock.


    [Process complete]


    An electronic voice cleaved the tense atmosphere in the room, discharging the electrified air. The crystal column that held Zion''s hand split in two, releasing his hand. A green hand with Omnitrix at its palm stood up, on its finger and looked at them before jumping into the mesh.


    The morphing spear stopped.


    Like a youngling breaking out of the egg, the ball of morphed flesh burst forth as a massive hand ripped out. Proceeding the hand, other limbs burst forth, bringing forth a monstrosity that Martians only saw in their nightmares.


    Its limbs were thick and covered in black scales, lifting it to near 30 feet in height. Its fingers adorned with sharp claws that seemed to cut the air itself. Its long tails with spikes adorning them. Two bony wings grew from its spiky back, its tips containing fingers tips with their own sharp claws. Its massive front limbs slammed on the crystal floor as the beast opened its three mouths and let out a bestial roar.


    "ROOOAAAARRR!!!"


    The three-headed hydra was looking at the tiny Martian snacks before it with a hunger similar to a predator. Martians, being psychic, felt the hunger of the beast before them, losing any conscience and saw them as nothing but food.


    ''We need to take him down and control the tower,'' R''ohh K''arr said to Zyrra K''elthar through their psychic link.


    Zyrra K''elthar understood the implication; they needed to defeat the enemy before them. He was too strong to let roam, and they needed to control this tower to stop or reverse whatever this guy had done. R''ohh K''arr analyzed the situation, scanning the body of the beast that sent chills down his spine.


    The mobility of this beast seemed low, but its many assets made up for the lack of it. Its long and flexible tail, three heads, and the wings that could act like another limb, all covered in spikes and scales.


    They all were deadly.


    ''Stab at its side, electrocute him,'' R''ohh K''arr instructed, ''Use maximum output.''


    Zyrra K''elthar nodded in acknowledgment and pulled his electro-staff and morphed his body into an agile form. He lowered his center of gravity, his legs three segmented, like an insect, compressed. He was getting ready for a sudden dash to close the distance.


    R''ohh K''arr, on the other hand, grew in size to combat the beast and grew an extra pair of hands. He grew to 15 feet, his limbs thick and strong, filled with muscles. He grabbed his electro-staff with his lower right hand while he got ready to charge.


    J''emm, standing behind them, was shaking in fear. The beast''s hunger was causing all his instincts to scream ''run away.'' He could feel the death before him; it was unlike anything he ever felt as the prince of Martians.


    This was true fear before a predator.


    For a flower to grow in a greenhouse, this was the first time meeting true terror. This was outside the castle walls, outside, in the wilderness with the unknown. And the true terror came knocking on his door and brought him to its cave.


    ''J''emm, pull yourself together,'' R''ohh K''arr reprimanded J''emm J''axx.


    J''emm snapped out of terror, stopping his collapsing mind. He looked at the M''hontrr, ready to fight this beast even in terror. J''emm pulled himself together, to fight his fear, to face the adversary that threatened his home.


    "What are you all doing?"

 37 - Declaration

    Kara found herself standing alone in the crystal city, facing the wall with a mix of frustration. Her blue eyes scanned the reflection before her, revealing the unexpected and rather comical drawings Zion had adorned her face with. The ink markings of an eye patch, a British mustache, a star-shaped mole, and an unfamiliar kanji stared back at her. Attempts to erase them only unveiled the harsh reality ¨C Zion had used a permanent marker.


    Fighting back the rising annoyance, Kara sighed, realizing that Zion''s antics were escalating. Collecting herself, she turned away from the wall and observed the towering structure that dominated the city. The white exterior began to glow, intricate golden circuitry spreading across the city as the tower responded.


    "He''s starting the process," she muttered, determined to address the situation.


    As Kara made her way toward the tower, the city trembled beneath her feet, and the winds shifted, carrying distant howls. The very essence of Planet Mars seemed to be undergoing a transformation.


    Quickening her pace, Kara reached the tower within minutes. Passing through a grand gothic gate and traversing pristine hallways, she ascended to the top floor. There, she was met with a startling scene ¨C a three-headed hydra, its scales black as night, facing off against three Martians, each with a distinct appearance ¨C one bulky, one slim, and the other scared. They were on the verge of a clash when Kara intervened.


    "What are you all doing?" she demanded, her tone a mix of surprise and irritation. The men froze at her question.


    ...


    The unexpected intervention of a variable increased the chance of the Martians'' defeat. They were struggling to fight the beast that sent shivers down their spines, and with their all at stake, they could only defeat him. But now, his friend, his backup, had arrived and they didn''t want another unparalleled opponent who could blast through Earth with her eyes.


    J''emm snapped out of his horror, blind courage rising. "You have betrayed our trust, Earther. We allowed you into our home, and now, you try to take that away from us. Is this how you repay our hospitality?" J''emm asked, his anger boiling.


    Kara turned to J''emm, her gaze cold yet filled with question. She then turned to the monster standing opposite; she didn''t need to inquire to know it''s Zion. She could feel the monster''s animosity toward her, which annoyed her, and its nonchalance as if it ruled above all. She didn''t understand the reasons behind Zion''s actions, but she would stop him. And if beating him inches to death was the solution, she was more than glad to.


    "Step back," Kara declared, taking a firm step forward to slay the beast. J''emm moved back on instinct, not understanding Kara''s intent, but he didn''t need to. Kara moved, her feet kicking the hard floor with all her power. She cocked a fist and punched as she arrived near Zion in a blink.


    But to her surprise, her fist failed to connect with his body, more like her body didn''t connect with anything. The hydra had used Martian density shifting to make itself intangible. Kara flew through unimpeded and caught herself getting strangled.


    As the first to react, R''ohh K''arr was the one to close the distance between him and the hydra. His massive form didn''t slow him down. He thrust his Electrode (the electric staff) at the Hydra. The Hydra, who was materializing his form, noticed R''ohh''s clear attempt and slashed him with his right wing.


    Zyrra K''elthar used this chance to attack the hydra''s right underbelly. He used the advantage of sudden accelerations to close the gap and stabbed with his Electrode. Yet to his dismay, the electrode connected with a force field that was covering the hydra like a protective layer.


    The hydra, who was getting attacked on three fronts, evaded the Kryptonian by phasing and grabbed her with his tail and slammed her to the hard cold floor with a cringing ''Bam.'' In her suffocation, Kara met the ground again and again, her nose breaking in the process, blood filling her mouth.


    He then slashed the four-armed gorilla with his bony wings that were more flexible than they looked and slapped the insect with his telekinesis. R''ohh rocketed and crashed against the pristine walls, his arms stinging in pain. Zyrra K''elthar, under the psychic pressure, groaned in agony.


    "ROOOARRRR!!!"


    Suddenly, the beast roared, not in victory but in pain. Kara and Zyrra K''elthar felt the force that suffocated them loosened with the agonizing roar. R''ohh turned his attention to the one who hadn''t fought, J''emm, who was now stabbing the beast with an Electrode.


    R''ohh brushed his pain and flew toward the beast, his muscles contracting with power. R''ohh punched the beast''s head, with all his strength, slamming one of its heads to the floor while evading the two remaining heads that tried to rip him with their teeth.


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    Hydra, angered, turned a third of its attention to the fly that bit him, using his wing to attack. J''emm, the young Martian, noob to a fight, got bitch-slapped by the wing. J''emm flew like a rocket and slammed on the walls, backing out for a moment.


    Kara, tearing out of the tail''s grip, slapped the tails away as she wiped the blood on her nose. She then caught the tails that were flying at her in a death grip and spat the blood in her mouth to the side. She then swung her hand under the tails and pulled it with all her strength, her tactical telekinesis spreading.


    "Prince J''emm," R''ohh cried in rage as he saw J''emm bleed. He was sent to protect their prince and keep the guests in check, but he had failed in both tasks. And if the prince were to die, he would not forgive himself.


    Hydra, looking at the rage-filled Martian, roared in mockery. "ROOOOOAAAAAARRRR!!!"


    R''ohh enraged, punched the hydra, uppercutting its roaring head. The hydra retaliated by slashing with his wings. R''ohh with swift movements avoided the attack, closing in to deliver another punch to the other head.


    But his hands were caught by telekinesis, and next he saw was the devouring abyss of Hydra''s mouth, ready to lunch on him. The jaws snapped shut, inches away from R''ohh''s face. R''ohh felt the certain death inches away.


    The hydra, however, clawed at the ground as it felt itself being lifted, but its claw found no grip on the smooth, undamaged floor.


    "Ahhhhhh!" Kara screamed as she pulled the hydra''s tails with all her power, lifting him. She had unknowingly saved R''ohh from certain death. She then twisted her body, swinging the massive hydra over her head.


    ~BOOOOM~ With a deafening boom, the giant crashed to the ground, and Kara wasn''t done with it as she lifted the hydra again, ready to give it a fine beating of its life. The hydra, having a slight concussion, used its decreasing awareness to strike at Kara. Its wings morphed into vines that shot toward Kara, trying to poke holes in her. Kara turned and kicked the veins away in a blur of motion.


    R''ohh, not letting up, moved in and stabbed the hydra with his Electrode. The hydra cried in pain as it used its mouth to bite him, but the experienced M''hontrr dodged his attack and kept striking him with the Electrode. The hydra''s cries of pain increased as Zyrra joined in with his Electrode after checking up on J''emm.


    While the Martians used their staff, Kara just pummeled the three heads of the hydra. She hit three of them up, and when they came down, she hit them back up and repeated this process. After being battered by the trio, the hydra started to decrease in size.


    Kara took a step back, noticing the hydra was de-transforming. The Martians kept electrocuting the hydra as it de-transformed. Finally, after a moment, the Hydra returned to the Martian form, laying face down.


    "Ugh," a groan escaped his lips, "You know... I am..."


    "What?" R''ohh questioned.


    "I am... done," Morph repeated.


    Kara, feeling a bad premonition, moved forward and punched down. A shockwave exploded as the punch connected, making Morph groan.


    "Stay down, Zion," Kara warned.


    Morph turned his body using the little bit of the remaining strength, only to get electrocuted but succeeded. He now laid facing up, looking at his high ceiling, his eyes focusing on something that existed beyond the perception.


    "I wanted to end this the easy way," he muttered to no one specific.


    Zyrra, angered by his words, stabbed Morph, "Stealing our home?!!!"


    "No," Morphed answered through gritted teeth. "Ugh."


    Zyrra removed his Electrode, stopping the electrocution. Morph took heavy breath, pain covering his body.


    "You will be taken to the Martian council and be judged for your action!" R''ohh declared.


    "I won''t be," Morphed replied.


    "You will be judged for your insolence," Zyrra stated in anger as he got ready to electrocute Morph.


    "Lightning," Zion muttered in a calm voice and a buzz of electric charge.


    Some Martians had the gift of magic, and Zion, now the epitome of Martian physiology, also had, you know it, magic.


    A yellow lightning, made of pure magic, descended on the trio in a blink. The Martians felt the intense heat and the burning electricity course through their bodies. While Kara on the other hand, managed to avoid getting zapped.


    The now fried Martians fell to the ground, charred. The experienced M''hontrr got handed, with magic. Zion still feeling sore turned his body to stand up; he used the taxing telekinesis to lift himself up.


    "What are you-"


    "Freeze," Zion cast another spell, freezing Kara in mid-sentence.


    He twisted his limbs, his sore spots vanishing as Martian healing kicked in. He walked up to J''emm, who was shocked at what happened. Morph pulled J''emm to him with his telekinesis, his eyes meeting the young Martian prince.


    "I want you to go inform your king, queen, and your council. I will bring war, and be prepared to face it," Zion stated in an absolute chilling voice, making sure that the young prince would never forget.


    "Now leave," he released the prince from his clutch. "Run, run to save your race."


    J''emm, understanding his task surprisingly quickly, got up and flew away, quickly vanishing through the door. He didn''t look back nor did he stop; he had to inform that kingdom of the war was coming, and it was against one man.


    But J''emm felt how wrong he was the minute he exited the crystal city. The rusty grounds of M''arzz were nowhere, only pitch-black ground with golden circuitry lines adorned the grounds as far as the eyes could see.


    When he crossed the darkened land, he saw golems rise from the darkened ground, bipedal beings with golden lines adorning them. They looked up with their circular eyes, sending chills down his spine.


    The war was coming, and they had an army of unknown to fight.


    ...


    Zion back at the tower, looked at the charred bodies of the Martians that were slowly beginning to heal. He had not killed them. He touched the Omnitrix on his chest and spoke his command, "Imprison them,"


    A crystalline structure rose from the ground and covered the three and teleported them away.


    "Start the extraction."


    With those words, the world rumbled into a new dawn.


    {Rest your rage on me, and live your life free of your curse.}

 38 - Extraction

    M''arzz rumbled to its core, tides of change clashing against the high walls of stability. The black surface rippled like water, oscillating like a wave that hid monsters in its depth. The monsters hidden were surfacing as the tide of change roared, as million tendrils with tri-claws broke through the black ocean, extending to the heavens.


    From space, M''arzz now looked like a jellyfish with its million tendrils flowing smoothly in the weightless sea of void. They danced wildly as they flowed with the cosmic wind. The million tendrils covered the skies of M''arzz in an abyssal terror, its claws reaching to the stars as if to devour them. The tendrils, covered in golden circuitry, gleamed with power unknown, targeting the debris of the cosmos.


    The asteroids in the main asteroid belt between M''arzz and Jupiter were the targets of this terror; even the moons of M''arzz were swallowed in their ascendance. The tendrils projected golden rays into the cosmos, lighting the void like a new sun. The sol solar system had a second star rising on the horizon. These rays soon reached their target, yet, instead of destruction, they captured their target, pulling them closer.


    The captured asteroids were swallowed by the tendrils for nutrients as they moved to their next target. The million tendrils cleaned the sol system of asteroids in a matter of minutes, changing the whole solar system. After devouring the asteroids in the Main belt, they shifted their target to Jupiter''s rings and its moons.


    In the silence of the void, only the new jellyfish was excited.


    ...


    The observatory was drowned in silence. The astronomers who were observing Mars had their jaws dropped at the sight. If shown without any prior information, they would have taken it as a joke, but they had been watching it as it happened and they still couldn''t believe their eyes. The screen displayed a half-red planet, the once Mars, and its other half now fully filled with tendrils that floated in the void. The tendrils glowed with divine light, illuminating the black void between planets.


    Mars, their sister planet, had changed into something unrecognizable. Now they had a giant jellyfish for a planet. Can they consider Mars a planet now? With its massive change, is it classified as an organism? Do they need to kick another planet out? The astronomers had many questions that they needed answers to, but they would have to wait for it.


    "This is unprecedented," the senior astronomer voiced his awe.


    His junior resonated with his awe, "They changed the whole planet."


    The senior rubbed his chin, his mind forming many theories. "This proves that there are sentient life beyond our expectations out there in the infinite cosmos. We should carry out more investigations."


    "You would have to wait for that," a familiar voice halted the senior''s thoughts. The senior and his junior turned to their colleague, expectation visible on their faces. "The Pentagon has been informed, and we are sharing the live feed with them. They are discussing what to do at the moment," The colleague answered.


    "But what can they do?" The senior commented. "For someone or something of this caliber, do you think our weapons would work."


    "Do you want us to just be sitting ducks?" The colleague retorted.


    "We could first try communication; this might be a false alarm, and we might end up in a war against a highly advanced species," the senior conveyed his reasoning. "We can''t do anything about that. It''s all in the hands of the Pentagon; they would decide what to do with the information," the colleague shrugged.


    "Haa," the senior sighed, "What in God''s name is going on?"


    ...


    -LEXCORP-


    The spacious office of Lex Luthor, adorned with sleek modern decor, overlooks Metropolis through floor-to-ceiling windows. Luthor sat behind his imposing desk, engrossed in his work. His secretary approached him with steady steps.


    "Sir, we were contacted by the military. They are asking you to contact them immediately," she informed, her words calm, showing no sign of haste. "You might want to look at this before you decide. I think it''s an urgent matter."


    Luthor raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued. He tuned and gave his attention fully to his secretary. Lex leaned back in his chair as he watched his secretary place a tab displaying a video of a jellyfish. Luthor puzzled, looked at his secretary.


    "That''s Mars, sir. We are watching the live feed," she answered calmly, "I checked with our satellite, and it''s showing the same image." She then pressed the button on the table, prompting a larger screen to be revealed on the walls of the office. The screen rippled to life, displaying a similar image from a different perspective.


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    "Interesting," Luthor stated with interest, "What kind of scientific anomalies are happening on Mars?"


    "Sir, there is something else," the secretary swiped the screen of the tablet, turning to an image with two figures flying in space. One with a very familiar ''S'' on her chest while the other with an hourglass.


    "It seems like the infection is spreading, and more of them are popping up," Luthor stated as he turned to the screen. "Connect with the Pentagon."


    ...


    Zion, standing in the only sanctuary on the other half of the planet, observed the extraction process with a calculated gaze. One of his screens showed the image of Saturn''s moon Titan, but it was not of importance now. {If you know, you know}


    M''arzz was a relatively small planet compared to Earth, so it needed to be fed to fatten it up. Zion was also primarily targeting Callisto and Ganymede for their water and other minerals, mostly for water. With the new source of water added to the ecosystem, he didn''t need to worry about cultivation in the future; he needed a food source.


    His attention then turned to the newborn Mechmorphs roaming around, curiously observing the things that were happening. They were his new army, his force to win the war, and he would lead them to victory. He now owned half of M''arzz, and he would need his personal army to protect it, and protect it they will.


    He would need them to maintain this place for the new arrivals of many... {Oops...Spoilers}


    Zion, with his army ready, turned to the other phases of his plan on M''arzz. He didn''t come to a barren planet to just conquer; he was here to make preparations for the future. Zion touched his chest where the Omnitrix resided and gave his command.


    "Start phase 2."


    [Activating Quantum Mineral Extractor]


    A mechanical voice answered from the Omnitrix as a black box in the deep depths of the city activated in silence. The space inside the box expanded to exceed the size of a continent before the space twisted, clacked, and distorted as multiple worlds formed in a singularity. The superposition of infinite worlds painting an abstract world.


    The QME utilized quantum superposition to extract minerals from other dimensions. By exploiting the principles of quantum superposition, allowing it to exist in multiple dimensions simultaneously, collect minerals, and return with them to our dimension. The QME was also powered by a fifth-generation Atomic engine which uses singularity to extract pure energy, much more advanced than the one in Gotham. This engine could power up the whole solar system.


    This new atomic engine was the baby of Singularity Energy Generator and Atomic engine, with negated effects of massive gravity.


    Zion normally would not have been able to accomplish this on his own while depending on Earth''s technological level. But Kryptonians were a highly advanced race, and the sunstone was equipped with all that tech, fully eliminating the would-have-been wasted time in production. But even with this, the Atomic Engine was still not powerful. He would normally have to build a Dyson sphere for energy, but for now, the energy output was enough.


    [Quantum Mineral Extractor activated successfully]


    [Production yield 100%]


    A relief washed over Zion as he heard the notification; his tensed heart relaxed. He was a tiny bit worried that all of this might explode on his face. He didn''t want to lose a planet in the solar system and confront a rage-filled Martian Manhunter. He could now begin his future plans now that the materials are being mined across the dimensions. He wouldn''t have to worry about rare materials running out, especially ninth and tenth metals. He could build weapons for his whole army and begin his war.


    [Extraction progress 56%]


    At the message, Zion turned to the screen where the thousand tendrils were crawling across two massive celestial bodies. Callisto with its icy surface covered with craters was being slowly dissected by the thousand tendrils; its ice melted, its oceans drained, its earth clawed. The once brilliant moon of Jupiter was now food to be devoured. And it wasn''t the only one; Jupiter''s moon Ganymede was also being devoured by the other tendrils, its ecosystem dissected and eaten as nutrients. The protector of Earth, Jupiter, now lacked two moons, but it won''t matter as Zion had something in mind for Jupiter too, but that was for another time.


    "Are the guns ready?" Zion questioned the interface.


    [Affirmative]


    "Good," Zion nodded, his gaze turning to veil the horizon, "Arm the Mechmorphs; we march in 24 hours. Let''s give the Martians time to prepare, and then we crush them."


    [Affirmative]


    "Let''s start the territorial war, shall we?" Zion clapped his hands in excitement.


    ...


    J''emm held his head down as the council finished watching his memories. He felt ashamed of running away, but he had to inform them of the oncoming war; they need to be ready. And there was nothing he could do to stop Zion while the best of their M''hontrr''s failed. The council discussed J''emm''s action. While some thought that his actions were cowardly and unfitting of a prince, others understood him. J''emm really couldn''t have done anything in that situation but return to inform them of the betrayal.


    "J''emm, leave to your room and rest," The queen ordered. J''emm bowed and left the hall in silence, his head held lower in shame. "Is J''onn J''onz been informed?" The king asked his general. "We have sent the order through our communication link, and we have yet to receive a reply," The General answered.


    J''emm, after leaving the hall, turned from the way to his room and left for a secluded space where he could meet the woman he loved. He exited the palace and took the tunnels to the sacred river. He sat near the river, admiring its beauty that calmed his mind. The bright light illuminated the cavern rocks, bringing light to the dark cave. He sat there, thinking back to the conversations he had with Zion, how friendly he was. The Earther never had a thought of betraying them, but he also knew that Martians could hide their thoughts very well.


    "J''emm," a worried female voice called him.


    "S''yraa," J''emm turned to the female Martian.


    "Why are you sad? I could feel your sorrow through our link," S''yraa took J''emm''s hand and rested her head on his. "What troubles you so much?"


    "I... I have let the Martians down," J''emm answered, "I should have been stronger. If I was, I would have been able to stop this war."


    "War?" S''yraa questioned, shocked at the revelation.


    "Yes," J''emm answered as he opened his mind to her, revealing his secrets. But as he let her in, Zion''s words flashed past. Zion had talked with him for an extended amount, sharing his view on relationships.


    ''If you truly love her, don''t care for the world and if it stands in your way, burn it to the ground.''

 39 - Discussing Mars

    The hum of the city outside Middleton set the backdrop as John Jones, the Martian Manhunter, returned to his modest apartment from his daily job. He closed the door behind him, and with a casual gesture, his humanoid form shifted seamlessly into his true Martian state. The green-skinned, red-eyed alien moved with an otherworldly grace, navigating his living space as if it were an extension of himself.


    John hung his outer coat on the hanger, his mind momentarily at ease. The day had been long, and the mundane act of returning home was a welcome respite from the responsibilities that came with being his kind on Earth.


    As he approached the fridge, the beacon of comfort awaited him ¡ª a pack of Oreos. John indulged in this earthly delight, savoring the familiar taste that connected him to the human side of his identity and his Martian addiction.


    Suddenly, his hands froze.


    His ears twitched (metaphorical) as a low hum entered his ear. The inaudible frequency that only Martians could hear filled the room. J''onn placed the Oreo in his mouth and walked to his drawer. The Martian pressed his hands to the floor, phasing through and unlocked the hidden compartment.


    With the lock released, he pulled the wooden cover away and gazed at the hidden device.


    A dark-green oval device floated to his hand at his will. It was the transceiver he brought to Earth when he left M''arzz. This was his only means of communication with his home planet, and it''s been years since he had been contacted.


    J''onn activated the device in trepidation, as the frequency of the hum meant it was an urgent message, and he needed to respond immediately. J''onn activated the device, and a low buzz filled his room. The device was way out of its time.


    [M''hontrr J''onn J''onzz, you are to report to duty immediately by the order of the King. Your home needs your service.]


    [We are at War with an invader from Earth.]


    The voice cut off after giving him the order. The news shocked J''onn, images of M''razz civil war flashing before his eyes. Death, suffering, and sacrifices made to end that war were tremendous, and the hard earned peace was broken now. He felt his mind shake, but he pulled himself back together. A bit of shellshock won''t stop him from protecting his people.


    J''onn stood up and walked to his window, gazing at the starry sky with a million specks of fireflies gleaming in the sky. The image of his home emerged in his mind. The red sandy earth, dark caverns, the mythical sacred river ¨C all of it was the beauty that his planet beheld within.


    J''onn activated the device and sent his reply, "M''hontrr J''onn J''onzz reporting to duty."


    He placed the transceiver in his pocket and pulled out another that looked like a bat. It was the device that Batman had given to him after their alliance. He pressed the button to alert Batman and moved out of his apartment to meet with him.


    ...


    -Batcave-


    In the dimly lit Batcave, Batman sat in the glow of the supercomputer. His gaze lingered on the screen, and the absurdity of it all baffled him. He was looking at the picture that shocked all the leading minds in his company.


    The division set to monitor deep space got news of Mars'' anomaly from the official observatory. The astronomers had used the billion-dollar satellite equipped with advanced deep space scanners and got a high-resolution image of Mars.


    And he was presented with a jellyfish.


    Mars, the barren sister planet, now had tendrils that sprouted from its dark side. Half of the planet had turned dark, and it was growing tendrils. The most absurd thing was what these tendrils did. These glowing tendrils captured the asteroids and ate them.


    They then moved from the asteroids and targeted the moons of Saturn, Callisto, and Ganymede. The tendrils pulled the massive moons out of orbit without affecting much of Saturn''s orbit or the other moons.


    But this event had changed the solar system forever.


    The anomaly that would happen due to the changes in the celestial bodies would be astronomical in the far future. The astronomers were more baffled by how this was happening, with most of them pointing at a more advanced race.


    But Batman felt like he knew the person responsible.


    "What is this? are you trying therapy?" Robin asked as he walked past. "But the jellyfish looks weird."


    Batman, without turning his gaze, answered, "It''s Mars."


    Robin paused and lowered the towel he was using to wipe his sweat. "Huh?"


    "This is a live feed from our satellite," Batman elaborated. He didn''t need to turn to know that his son had a stupid, dumbfounded expression. "Mars was altered, and now it''s feeding on Callisto and Ganymede."


    "What?" Robin shouted in shock, "How is this even possible?"


    Robin scrutinized the image, trying to find any evidence of its falsehood, but if Batman says it''s Mars, it should be Mars. He couldn''t believe how a planet could change like this. Who could do this? Are we finally in contact with aliens.


    "Zion left to Mars to terraform it," Batman shared the information he had gotten from Superman.


    "That doesn''t ex-" Robin paused as he remembered what kind of person Zion was. He also remembered the talk they had with him and his worldview. From his analysis, Zion had a mad scientist syndrome, but, "How did he even do this?"


    "Zion got his hand on Kryptonian technology," Batman answered.


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    "Superman?"


    "Yes, Superman helped Zion so he could terraform Mars," Batman elaborated. "And he left Mars a week ago."


    "No wonder," Robin replied.


    The duo stood in silence, watching Mars, but the silence was cut by a beeping noise from the Batcomputer. Batman immediately got up from his seat and rushed to the Batmobile.


    ...


    -Metropolis-


    Superman in his iconic red and blue suit looked into the voice of space with a scrutinizing gaze, skepticism visible in his face. He couldn''t believe his eyes as he watched a planet jellyfish eat a moon.


    He had set his fortress to inform him of any and all changes on Mars, in case his help was needed. And when he returned today, he was alerted to Mars'' change that left him doubting his ears.


    He checked on Mars'' condition with his own eyes, his zoom vision helping his endeavor. Yet, he could only doubt his eyes. With more scrutiny, he noticed that the asteroids around the solar system had vanished, even Jupiter''s rings had thinned.


    He didn''t know what Zion was doing. Zion was supposed to terraform Mars. But now, the planet is alive.


    "Did he really create a sentient planet?" Superman mused, "I hope Kara keeps him in line."


    Superman''s contemplation was interrupted by a beeping sound that came from his belt. He pulled out a bat-shaped transceiver from the hidden compartment.


    "Trouble in Mars, come to our discussed location."


    Superman pocketed the transceiver and flew out of the fortress.


    ...


    -Arrow Cave-


    Green Arrow looked utterly baffled at the picture presented to him.


    After his talk with Batman about an invasion, he had used his company''s satellites to observe the other space, expecting an alien invasion. He did not doubt the existence of aliens after confirming that Superman was one.


    But the picture of Mars before him baffled him to no end.


    "What the hell?" Arrow questioned his eyes.


    ...


    -Washington D.C-


    After a long and arduous discussion, and Lex Luthor''s intervention, the Pentagon decided to send their elite troop to Mars to check the situation. With money and influence, Luthor easily swayed the council and got in on the mission. Lex Luthor would be providing his advanced space shuttle to take the troop to Mars, and of course, Luthor will be accompanying them with his team.


    The team would consist of Wonder Woman, Colonel Trevor with his own team, and Luthor with his own team.


    "We are leaving to another planet?" Diana asked Trevor, a childish curiosity visible in her voice.


    Trevor just smiled and shook his head, "We are going to investigate the abnormality of Mars. We will move to Lex Corp base before we leave; it is estimated to take three months."


    "Isn''t it a bit slow?" Diana questioned.


    "We can''t do anything about it unless you have some Amazonian magic to take us there faster,"


    Trevor joked to lighten the tension.


    "I don''t know of such arcane magic," Diana replied truthfully, "But I hope, whatever it is, gives me a good fight."


    Diana raised her sword valiantly. The other troop members just chuckled to themselves.


    Trevor pushed the sword away from him. "I hope not," he muttered under his breath.


    "We are going to another planet."


    "I thought I had seen everything after I met with the Amazonian princess."


    "Another planet, I hope this is not a Xenomorph."


    "Dude! chill!"


    "I am going to have nightmares."


    "What is this creature you are talking about," Diana joined in on the conversation.


    The soldiers turned to Diana in shock, their fearful expressions visible. They didn''t want to show it to the Amazonian princess only to learn that it exists. They were not ready for the shock and fear-filled nights that follow.


    One brave soldier pulled out his phone and presented the video to Diana. Diana carefully took the human''s artifact and looked at the movie it showed.


    ~Screeeech~ ~kraawwww~


    "Such a vile creature! Where does it live? I need to slay it immediately," Diana turned to the soldiers with a serious expression.


    The soldiers collectively breathed a sigh of relief at Diana''s answer. They were happy that it didn''t exist. Trevor, not amused by the situation, took the phone from Diana''s hand and answered her question.


    "It doesn''t exist, Diana," Trevor threw the phone back to the soldiers. "They are fiction. They don''t exist."


    "But I saw it in the artifact," Diana argued.


    "It is like an illusion. It doesn''t exist," Trevor elaborated and gave the soldiers a hard look. "Diana, go pack your things. We are leaving in 10 minutes!!!"


    Trevor barked the order.


    ""Yes, Sir!!!""


    ...


    -Gotham-


    After alerting Batman, Martian Manhunter quickly took off to Gotham. He arrived at Gotham Harbor covered in darkness. His form human with a black coat blending him with the darkness. J''onn''s soundless footsteps made him feel like a ghost, but he wasn''t the only ghost hidden in darkness.


    "Manhunter," a deep voice called from the shadow.


    Batman walked out of the shadow, his iconic cowl adorning his face. His black cape dragged behind him like a shadow, connecting him into the darkened abyss.


    "Batman," J''onn greeted with ease.


    "It seems like all of us are here," Batman stated, his eyes focused behind J''onn.


    The first thing J''onn noticed was the fluttering sound of the cape billowing in the wind. He turned to see the very noticeable "S" on the new arrival. Superman in his iconic red and blue suit floated behind Martian Manhunter.


    "Superman."


    Superman greeted Manhunter with a polite smile. "Manhunter?" Superman tried to lighten the mood.


    "It''s M''hontrr, a Martian police," J''onn elaborated.


    "Let''s talk inside," Batman stated before he walked to the nearby container. He punched the code into the hidden compartment and entered the dark container.


    Superman and Martian Manhunter followed Batman in. They stood in the dark, no one needing the light to see in the dark. The doors closed, and the ground started to descend. The dark surroundings changed, and bright light started to fill in from the ground.


    The elevator stopped in a brightly lit cave filled with gadgets. It was one of Batman''s warehouses. He had arranged them to meet after learning of Zion''s departure to Mars. He had only informed the directly involved individuals, Superman.


    "I hope you can explain what is happening on my planet," Martian Manhunter questioned.


    "Yes," Superman chimed.


    Batman turned on the desk, displaying the image of Mars in its current state, the jellyfish. J''onn was shocked by the image displayed.


    "Is that?" He questioned, unbelieving.


    "Its Mars," Superman confirmed, "I saw it with my eyes."


    "My deduction is that Zion is taking over Mars forcefully."


    "But why?" Superman questioned. "He informed me it was to terraform the planet."


    "I don''t know his full intentions." Batman turned to the Martians. "Martians are divided into two groups, aren''t they?"


    "Yes, we have a class system in place after the civil war. B''lahdenn, red Martians, as the ruling class. G''arrunn, green Martians, as first-class citizens and A''ashenn, white Martians, as second-class citizens. Due to the past history, the A''ashenn are always treated badly... Wait, you are not..."


    "Yes," Batman answered. "He is uniting your race by force."


    "How do you know?" Superman questioned Batman.


    Instead of answering the question, Batman pulled an audio file.


    ~I don''t like working under anyone, and I really am not suited for any kind of management. Moreover, it is a waste of time that could be used elsewhere. And I don''t like humans and their war and territorial conflicts over a small piece of land they can''t even take care of. What would happen if I give them my tech?


    What do you think will ha...


    ..


    ...man needs something bigger than them to be better. They need to face extinction to grow as a species. Unity is not forged in peace but in the hellfire of war."~


    After listening to the audio, Superman didn''t know what to think of Zion. For him, Zion was a kind kid from a small town, just like him. But he never expected this side of him that is cold and calculative.


    "You should leave to Mars and check the situation yourself," Batman commented as he paused the audio. "Just to make sure that we are not just making false conclusions."


    "I will leave immediately. Thank you for the help." J''onn said as he turned to leave.


    "I will come with you," Superman chimed in.


    *****

 40 - Conquest

    Zion stood atop M''arzz.


    He was the pinnacle of existence that governed half of the M''arzz. The Great General of the most powerful, yet-to-be named, country. The master of an undying army. The bringer of peace and chaos. Wielder of the most powerful weapon, Omnitrix.


    He was standing in his chamber of controls, gazing at the billion Mechmorphs that had gathered. The Mechmorphs each armed with blaster. The Mechmorphs were gather to their march to war.


    Zion body projected above the city, a giant that could be seen from miles away. He looked at his silent soldiers intently and began his speech.


    "My soldiers, today we march for freedom, we march for peace. We have started the war of justice for the suppressed. We shall free and unite a broken race. We shall beat, or blast, the prejudice out of them.


    Today we will conquer this whole planet and bring peace forever!!!"


    Zion voice boomed across the planes, the echoes marking the beginning of a new era.


    "Mechmorphs!! You hate violence but violence is not the answer, its the question and the answer is YES! Do not worry, for I, your great General, will give you vacation for the next five months.


    Now take up your guns and unite this planet under our banner."


    Zion waited for the eruption of cheers but what greeted him was an absolute silence. The Mechmorphs were not the type to get hyped for something, it was not in their genetics.


    "Whatever," Zion just shrugged at the silence. "Now go forth and conquer!!!"


    At his command, the Mechmorphs performed a salute and turned toward the horizon. The Mechmorphs began their march in neat files like well trained soldiers. The billion Mechmorphs march was silent, like the spring breeze, but the winter was coming for Martians.


    Zion grinned as he watched the Mechmrophs march to conquer, but he had doubts. "Trix, the orders are given?"


    [Affirmative]


    [Order: Conquer the planet.]


    "Lets get this over with before trouble comes knocking at the door," Zion muttered as he gazed to the horizon.


    "Is it ready?" Zion questioned.


    [The complexity of the apparatus implies a prolonged timeframe for thorough assimilation and assessment.]


    "Mark it as high priory and redirect other units to accelerate the process," Zion gave his order.


    [Redirecting complete.]


    [Accelerated of assembly: 110%]


    ...


    The billion Mechmorphs crossed the dark ground of their home and stepped on the rusty sands of Mars. The March of the Mechmorps looked like the infestation of the plague, with billion ants expanding in all direction.


    With each steps the Mechmorphs took the ground beneath them changed to that of their home ground. The infestation of Mechmorphs was spreading and they would take over the planet when they fully conquer the whole.


    M''arzz would become home to Mechmorphs, and the Martians would be his citizens. Zion ever changing plan accounted for it. The war would cause the Martians to unite and he would govern the united race, not rule. He would look after the new united race and they would be under his protection.


    His starting plan was only to terraform the planet, but observing the Martians changed his plans. Their prejudice against themselves and other species would be the cause of their demise.. So he changed the terraformation plans to conquer them after the crystal city was build.


    He had packed everything in that crystal, most of his knowledge. The city was a device his backup to protect earth in his absence. The whole planet turning into a Mechmorph planet equals to having a titan battle ship with anti-matter cannon coupled with entropy shield.


    ***


    -Martian city, Vallis Aquilo-


    The Martians had been preparing for the War. They had sent scouts to gather intelligence on their enemy, and the news was not optimistic.


    Their enemy had an uncountable soldiers while the Martian''s only had about 2 million. Their enemy overwhelmed them in sheer number of combatants. On one side, a billion Mechmorphs, while on the other, a million capable Martians with less training.


    So, the Martians decided to take their fight to their home ground. They have lived their whole life underground. They knew the subterranean tunnels like the back of their hands. They would also have more advantage within the tight space where the advantage of high number plummets.


    The Martians were now waiting in the cities that would be first attacked. They had already evacuated the citizens to the capital. The enemy was attacking in all direction and in all their outer cities. The elite team was sent to each of this city to lay siege. They would attack the Mechmorphs and retreat. They would try to reduce the number of their enemy while gaining much insight about the enemies as possible.


    V''orra T''ellon, the commander of operation in Vallis Aquilo, barked orders at his soldiers. His team consisted of 20 Green Martians (G''arrunn) and 30 White Martians (A''ashenn). Of course, the white Martians were not here of their own will.


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    They were the second class citizens and were drafted to be used in this war. They couldn''t even retaliate against the G''arrunns as the 20 were well trained officers. They were also armed with weapons that Martians had forgotten since the old civil war.


    The A''ashenn were pushed to the front lines, while the G''arrunns stayed behind.


    A sudden ping on the commanders intercom alerted the Martians of the enemies arrival. They were in the underground tunnels. The would soon be in the city. The Martians his behind the building, masking their presence to surprise their enemy.


    The Martians waited with their guns pointed at the dark tunnels, while hidden in buildings. The atmosphere tensed as a slight golden glow appeared at the end of the tunnel. The Martians gripped their blaster, their nerves tugging in stress.


    Slowly, the glow approached.


    Martians waited with their breaths grasped, their muscle tensed. They could also feel the nervousness of their comrades through the psychic link.


    The Commander waited for the enemy to near before he ordered though their link. "Fire!!!"


    The Martians pulled the trigger and shot out energy blasts without mercy. They were at war and they couldn''t care about the other party''s mortality. Hundreds of energy blast filled the tunnels, leaving no room for Mechmorphs to dodge.


    The Mechmophs not minding one bit, walk forward as multiple holes appeared in their body. Their body regenerated as nanites replaced the old ones. The healing ability of the Mechmorphs came to use here as they march forward in wild fire without a care.


    The Martians kept shooting, trying to take down many enemies as possible. but their efforts were just wasted. The Mechmorphs crossed the tunnel and arrived at the opening. The Martians retreated as the Mechmorphs flooded the empty city.


    They(Mechmorphs) now had the Martians in sight and lifted their hand blaster. They had absorbed the blaster Zion gave them and upgraded them with their own nanites. The blaster glowed with golden energy.


    The commander sensing danger dodged to the side.


    A energy blast brisked past him and collided with the building behind him. The blast didn''t break through, but covered the whole building before it disintegrated into a glowing golden cube.


    V''orra T''ellon felt a chill as he saw the whole building turn into a tiny cube that he could hold in his palm. He didn''t want to know what would happen if it had hit him. He quickly ordered his men to take cover, including the A''ashenn.


    The Martians quickly used the building to take cover while firing back in retaliation. but Mechmorphs didn''t care and rained hell fire on the Martians. The hundreds of Mechmorphs filling the Cavern raised their blaster in unison and fired the dehydration ray(Megamind).


    The golden energy filled the sight for a moment before they collided with everything. The building, homes, signs, plants, some Martians. The energy enveloped them and turned them into a cube. The other Martians could only watch in horror as their comrades turned to small cubes.


    ''Everyone retreat, we will proceed with plan B," The commander gave his orders.


    The Martians pulled back, using the remaining buildings and their high reflexes to avoid getting cubed{hehe, cubed}. But not all of them were fortunate enough to escape.


    One of the untrained A''ashenn, was using a big chuck of sign board to protect himself as he retreated. He was filled with panic and was doing everything to stay alive. The A''ashen weaved between high building to avoid getting cubed.


    The Mechmorphs clearly didn''t miss the flying chunk, and concentrated their fire. The concentrated fire cubed all the building around the A''ashenn, cornering him in mid-air with nowhere to escape or hide.


    Finally only the big sign was his only defense.


    The Mechmorphs cubed the signboard, plunging the A''ashenn in dread as he watched the golden light approach and his death knock on his door. He froze, unable to move in sheer fear. While he was praying to god for the death to be painless, a force caught him by the leg and through him to the tunnel.


    V''orra T''ellon had used his telekinesis to help the A''ashenn. With his density shifting, he was phasing through the blast like his well trained subordinates. They used their telekinesis to cannon Mechmoprhs in hope to slow them down.


    They destroyed building with their strength and rained it on their enemies, slowing the Mechmorphs march and successfully retreated into the tunnel. V''orra T''ellon looked at his subordinates, he had lost 30 of them in this attack. only two A''ashenn remained in the total 30.


    "Retreat," He ordered as them to move while hiding next to the tunnels mouth.


    ''Thank you, sir,'' The A''ashen who was saved thanked him while the others retreated with the other G''arunn.


    V''orra T''ellon didn''t reply as he focused on the Mechmorphs marching. He waited until the Mechmorphs filled the city before bringing out a remote and detonating the explosive they had set.


    The explosions rung in the closed cave, raining down boulders on the unexpected Mechmorphs. The whole cave collapsed on Mechmorphs head, squashing them like bugs. V''orra T''ellon watched in trepidation as they lost a city in this war.


    He knew that this war would be hard fought but he wasn''t expecting this much collateral damage, more like he didn''t want to think. He then retreated as the boulders blocked the tunnels entrance, sealing the Mechmorphs inside.


    He rushed though the tunnels, catching up with the retreating team. They mood of the team was down and they finally realized they were in war. V''orra T''ellon approached them gave them a encouragement pat.


    "Lets go, we still have a war to fight," He lead the team forward through the intricate tunnels.


    But he froze as he arrived at an intersection. The other Martians came to a halt, their eyes widening in shock and fear. if they had hair, it would have stood on end.


    The other tunnels each had a slight golden glow, circuitry lines glowing in the dark. The circle eyes of Mechmorphs focused on them, their blasters glowing with power. They didn''t wait for the Martians and fired.


    V''orra T''ellon, standing at the front, was fazed by the attack. He felt the dread of the old war seeping though.


    ''Commander!!,'' He was tackled, avoiding the blast by a hairs breath.


    V''orra T''ellon rolled and took cover next to the wall. He saw who tackled him as he took cover. It was the A''ashenn he had saved, but the A''ashenn was engulfed by the golden glow and was cubbed.


    He pulled the cube to him using his telekinesis. ''Sorry, I didn''t even know your name.''


    He turned to those that took cover like him. He could feel their fear through the link, they were scared, and now they were surrounded. He was the commander and he need to save at least one of them.


    ''Those who can phase, leave. Meet back ups at rendezvous point.'' he ordered.


    The Martians turned to their commander. ''Sir, not all of us can density shift.''


    ''This is war, sacrifices need to be made,'' Commander replied with a hard look. ''Leave now!!''


    The frightened Martians who knew density shifting phased though the walls and left the battlefield. The other shocked Martians who didn''t know how to density shift could only watch in horror.


    ''Commander don''t leave us here to die!!!" They called to the commander.


    ''Sorry,'' The commander replied as he phased through the wall. The Mechmophs were already near and they caught the Martians easily.


    ...


    The Martians phased though the cavern walls and arrived at the rendezvous point. The Martians were reduced to only 6 people. They were the elite of the M''hontrrs. They had trained for years to attain density shifting.


    And they were never more grateful for it than today.


    ''Don''t stand around, we need to inform the council about the enemies powers,'' The commander popped in. He commanded the remaining troop to retreat, but the Martians hadn''t realized something.


    The walls of the dark cavern lit up with golden circuitry lines.


    *****


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    (¡«£þ¨Œ£þ)¡«

 41 - Overpowering

    The Martian council had received the news of their defeat at the front lines.


    "Council general, the enemy had stopped advancing after conquering the outer cities," A G''arrunn reported the observations made by the Scouts. "They seem to be busy doing something"


    "What are they up to now?" Council General questioned, frustration taking over. "Now only we lost the first confrontation but also our elite soldiers."


    "Sir..." The G''arrunn called with nervousness in his voice.


    "What is it?" Council General asked with a bark.


    G''arrunn suppressed his nervousness and answered, "Sir, the mutation of our planet had extended to past the outer cities. They are transforming Mars as they march and we have little information of our enemy."


    Council General felt his head throb. This war was something they were never prepared for. They were indolent, idle at their own superiority. How could they not? They were a race of telepaths with powers of shape-shifting, super-strength and speed. They were superior in everything compared to their neighbors.


    "You can leave, I will relay the report," The council general instructed.


    The Martians bowed and left to attend to his duties.


    Council General left his commanding station and moved to the War room where many council members were discussing about how to win this war. They were using all their experience to come up with a strategy, but multiple conflicting views only slowed them.


    The room silenced for a moment as the council general enter. They Martians gazed t him fro the report. Council general relayed the news with ease, he was used to this.


    "The enemies had stopped advancing. They seem to be planning something," He relayed. "and the black plague had already infected the outer cities. Your guest is really terraforming our planet."


    The king looked at the council general, they were acquaintance for a long time now, and clearly sense the blame in his tone. "We have already gone over this.


    The decision was made after the council read his memory. I also took many factors into account before allowing him. We have already let the humans explore the surface¡ªmaybe it was my greed to see M''arzz flourish."


    "Yet we are at war, my king," council general answered.


    ~BEEEEEEP BOOOOP BEEEEP BOOOP~


    The alarms blared in the war room signifying that they were under attack and a message from the outside confirmed their suspicions.


    "Sir, we are under attack on the south of the city," A martian relayed the news through the psychic link.


    "WHat happened?" The king questioend.


    "The enemy had dug though earth using a giant worm and the enemies are rushing in," The Martian relayed in panic. "Sir, we need back up immediately."


    "Fight to the last breath, try to stall the enemy. The back up would is deployed," Council general gave the ordered as he turned to his king. "We can''t win in a head on confrontation, we are outnumbered."


    "We got to strike the enemy''s leader," King commented, looking ot his council for other strategy.


    The council didn''t reject the idea as it was the only feasible solution now that their capital was being attacked.


    "General V''orakka V''orrunn, prepare an elite team to strike at the enemies stronghold. General X''araa X''elthar, take command to face the enemies at the fronts. General N''irra N''orren, prepare the bio-ships to escort the strike team," The king quickly gave orders to his general, while keeping the rest with him to command the army.


    The council members swiftly dispersed to execute their assigned tasks. Urgent messages and commands echoed through the communication channels, creating a symphony of organized chaos.


    ***


    The chose spread through the psychic hive mind. The martian citizens were panicked at the sudden attack from the enemies who burst thought the cavern walls with a giant wrym. They were never expecting to be attacked at their home.


    The M''hontrrs who were on duty were quick to react and deployed measures to slow the enemy down until back up arrived. They collapsed building, dropped boulders, threw fists and ripped them with telekinesis.


    The Martians did everything to take down the enemy.


    But the immortal Mechmophs just tanked the attack. Their fluidity let them negate most of the attacks that were thrown at them. They just turned to puddle and solidified again. The martians felt fear at the sheer atrocities of the Mechmorophs, who just shrugged of their attacks.


    The martians arrived and got the loosing battle into a standstill.


    They should their enemies with their strongest blasters, but did nothing to the enemies. What frightened them more was the fact that the Mechmorphs did nothing but march form the turnnel they carved.


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    And with the ever increasing number of Mechmorphs, they felt true desperation. They felt fear that were lost. Those who survived the last war was feeling the shellshock. They felt dread seeping out of their bones.


    ***


    J''emm received the news of the enemies attack, his heart raced in nervousness. He knew that he would be protected if he were to stay in the castle but he felt shame even at the thought of hiding.


    He couldn''t do much of anything in the fight against Zion, but he would not run from this war. He would protect those he loved.


    J''emm quickly flew out of the castle using the spreading panic as a distraction. He need to find S''yraa S''mitt and take her to the castle for her protection. He would not lose her in this war, at least, he wanted to protect her to the best of his ability.


    J''emm saw the panicked Martians as they rushed around like headless chickens. The older Martians were clam but nervous, the young who had not seen war were frightened. The old had seen war, they were survivors, they knew of horrors unspoken.


    The psychic hive mind was filled with commands and sound of panic.


    The cavern war filled with the sound of blasters.


    The cries of frightened children.


    Yes, they were truly in war.


    J''emm didn''t know what to think of such things, He was not taught nor had he experienced something of his caliber. He was just a young prince of a peaceful nation. He didn''t know how to clam his panicked citizens nor did he know how to win this war.


    But he not care for it now, for he need to find his love.


    J''emm tracked S''yraa''s psychic signature to a cave where she learns to control her magic. He didn''t think much as he rushed to the cave, not caring for the formalities as he or anyother was not allowed to enter a Y''ellonn training cave.


    It didn''t take J''emm to cross the city, he rushed through the cave system, tracking S''yraa''s signature. He impatiently arrived at the cave''s entrance only to be stopped by a Y''ellonn wearing his priest attire.


    "Let me in, I need to take S''yraa to safety," J''emm said impatiently to the Y''ellonn.


    The Y''ellonn looked at J''emm calmly, with tranquility of a monk, which he was. "You cannot intervene in her meditation. It would not only harm her but also you."


    "We are at war, I need to take to safety," J''emm was getting more impatient as he conversed.


    "Maybe we are at war, But are you ready to face the consequences prince J''emm?" The priest questioned, he was one of the oldest of priest.


    "I am," J''emm answered instantly, not thinking much to the priests words.


    "Are you sure?" The priest questioned him calmly, "Are your prepared for the criticism? Judgment? Pressure? Isolation? It will not be only you who face such consequences. S''yraa would be also forced into this due to your decision."


    J''emm froze at the priests question. He didn''t need to think to know his answers, after all he got advice from a tyrant. "I will face it myself, I will convince them." J''emm answered with resolution.


    The priest saw the resolution in J''emm. He was one of the strongest priest and he knew that the path Martians walk will never be the same after this war and J''emm was chosen to do his duty.


    "Wait here," The priest instructed J''emm and moved to the cave.


    J''emm obeyed and waited patiently outside of the cave. He moved about in nervousness. After what felt like hours, S''yraa walked out with the priest. She looked confused of the situation after just reestablishing her connection to the psychic cloud.


    J''emm quickly moved to S''yraa and took her hand. "I do not have the time to explain. We need to leave now."


    S''yraa was taken back taken aback. She couldn''t believe that J''emm would take her home. She wasn''t really ready to meet the parents. "J''emm, I am not ready to meet your parents."


    "It will be okay," J''emm assured.


    "But-


    "Leave child," The priest instructed.


    S''yraa was confused, but bowed to the priest respectfully, followed by J;emm, and left the cave. They flew across the city, where the south of it was smocking, its building crumbled and flashed of blaster echoed.


    J''emm and S''yraa felt their hearts tighten at the sight. With their supervision, they were clearly able to that the Martians were struggling to push the enemy back.


    ~BOOM BOOM BOOM~


    Three more explosion rung in the other three directions. One near the east caves used by the priest and the other two from the west and the north.


    J''emm snapped his head in the direction of the explosion to only feel fear. A large head climbed through the explosion and slithered out. Followed by its gigantic structure was Mechmoprhs marching out like thousand ants.


    Cries of panic filled the cavern that even people with ears could hear it. The panic of the Martians city was not unwarranted as theses Mechmorphs didn''t march idle, they aimed their blasters. The sound of energy collision and matter disintegrating into a cube filled the cavern.


    "It''s horroble," S''yraa mutter.


    She turned her head to look at the caver to sense a massive Magik fluctuation. The priests were gearing up for some magic battle but Mechmorphs were immune to them too(as in they would not die). The massive mana gather and struck down like lightning stunning the Mechmorphs.


    The message quickly spread through the psychic link that the Mechmorphs are weakened by high voltage of electricity and the problem was that they were out of their home ground, it was like fish out of water, their were stunned.


    "We need to get to the palace faster," J''emm tugged at S''yraa and increased his flight speed.


    ***


    The Martians were being pushed back in all fronts.


    The Y''ellonn were able to take down the Mechmorphs that flooded through the tunnel made by the Wrym, but the sheer number and thousand blaster dwindled the Y''ellonns. They changed their tactics to adjust.


    The other fronts were much worse as it was getting hard for them to even get to the Mechmorphs. Only Martians with the ability to density-shift were able to attack the Mechmorphs up close. While some who were with high reflex dodged the bullets and threw hands with Mechmorphs, well he got blasted in the face after a long fight.


    Some Martians, G''arrunn and A''ashenn, joined forces and took down the Wrym. The battle was hard fought.


    While the intelligent ones used their telekinesis to use the Mechmorphs as their sheild and clubs. It was effective until Mechmorphs started friendly fire. They didn''t care for their brethren and blasted everything that obstructed them.


    This pushed the Martians to the brink, moving them into the city more and more. The building were even getting cubed as the time passed, and whole outer ring was cleared. The Martians felt true fear facing an army that only marched forward without backing down.


    They were not even given time to process the information that they were at war where they would lose everything. The sudden turn of events only shocked the Martians even more.


    Let''s not even talk about the teenagers, they were near shitting themselves. Some impulsive idots wants to fight the enemy themselves. While the others were trying to push the blame of A''ashenn for doing this.


    All stupid shit was happening.


    ...


    "Sir, what do we do?" A A''ashenn asked his commander. "If this goes like this we would lose the capital."


    The commander who turned to look at his subordinate, froze for a moment. He then looked at his subordinate, "R''yaan R''okk, You know how to density shift?"


    "No sir," He answered.


    The commander didn''t asked more and relayed the orders from the council through the psychic cloud. "All those that know how to density-shift, meet General V''orakka V''orrunn at the palace. He would give you your next orders.


    Other, do your best to by time."


    "How much, sir?"


    "As much as we could."

 42 - Convergence

    *****


    ''Thank you for your assistance, Superman,'' J''onn thanked Superman through their psychic link.


    Superman, with his insistence on helping Mars and solving the mysteries behind Zion''s actions, managed to convince J''onn to let him accompany him. Even though J''onn didn''t want to let another outsider get involved in the war, Superman''s reputation preceded him.


    ''Thank you for letting me accompany you, J''onn,'' Superman answered through their psychic link. He was wearing Zion''s re-breather for this space travel and exactly couldn''t talk in space. ''I am also worried about my cousin, Kara. She wouldn''t have let things escalate this far.''


    J''onn could understand the sentiment; after all, he also had relatives on Mars, his sister and her children. He was also worried for them because he knew how cruel a war could be and he didn''t want that for his nephews and nieces.


    ''I hope the war has not progressed too far,'' J''onn muttered as he flew next to Superman.


    Both superheroes were flying at high speed toward Mars, taking no detour. With their hyperspeed, it would take about a day for them to arrive at Mars. {Explanation: Zion and Kara reached Mars faster due to Earth being near in their orbits. Now that Mars had moved further, it would take a longer time.} Superman pushed forward, his mind lost in memories. He was shocked the first day he met Kara, more shocked when she said she was from another universe where he didn''t exist. Unlike him, she didn''t have anyone to guide her, making it his responsibility to guide her. She was his responsibility, and he was her family.


    "I hope you are okay, Kara," Superman increased his speed. The duo flew through the void uninterrupted, crossing many spatial units in minutes. They crossed Earth''s Moons and entered the void between orbits.


    ***


    "Are you okay?"


    "I am okay."


    Steve Trevor asked Wonder Woman in concern. They were now in space in Lex''s space shuttle. He couldn''t believe that they possessed such advanced technology. The shuttle looked more streamlined like a sci-fi spaceship, with its dark-green finish and powerful thrusters that carried them beyond imaginable speed.


    "Can I ask why the US government was never notified of this?" Trevor turned to Lex Luthor, who was doing something on his tablet.


    "Why should I?" Lex asked, not lifting his head from the tablet. "This ship is worth a fortune, my fortune. Do you know how much I had to spend to even break the code in an alien craft? How much it took to build it from scraps? You do not have the authority to question my decisions. This is a business trip, Colonel Trevor, one that''s between your higher-ups and me."


    Steve could only grit his teeth at Lex''s answer. He felt frustration; if this tech was shared, they could protect many more lives, and no more soldiers would die in borders.


    "Steve," Steve felt a hand on his shoulders. He turned to meet Diana''s gaze. From her gaze, he knew that she just as much wanted to cut down Lex''s tongue. Steve knew that no one here would be able to stop her if she wanted to kill him.


    "I am fine," Steve replied.


    Lex had been observing the duo since his fight. He had read the file about Wonder Woman, an Amazonian. He was cautious of her and was not provoking her as much as he would like to. Superman wouldn''t outright kill him to keep his image, but Wonder Woman might not show such restraint.


    "Sir, we detect two new high-speed objects flying toward Mars," the pilot informed.


    Lex got up from his seat and walked to the controls, followed by Trevor. They watched the enhanced image from their sensors, clearly showing a man with an "S" on his chest and another green.


    "Would you look at that? We got infections," Lex smirked. He had already deduced that Superman was involved in Mars'' changes. He now confirmed that it was Superman who was trying to compromise Earth, and he wouldn''t allow him to.


    "What is Superman doing here?" Trevor asked no one in particular.


    "Intercept them, use the cannons," Lex commanded.


    "Are you insane?" Trevor shouted.


    "No," Lex replied calmly. "I am just trying to attract his attention." Lex''s pilot aimed the cannon at Superman.


    ***


    The cannon was fired, and it was successful in attracting the duo''s attention. Manhunter and Superman flew toward Lex''s ship, which was just a distance before them. With their speeds, they would cross them in a blink. They would have missed it if not for the flare. Superman slowed down next to the ship, his X-ray vision revealing those that were inside. His brows frowned at the sight of Lex Luthor. Trouble always accompanied when Lex was involved.


    [Connection established]


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    A voice spoke from the re-breather that connected the coms to the ship. Lex''s ship''s advanced firewall was nothing but a wet paper to Z.A.I, which could be pierced with a finger. No warning alarmed the system of its breach; instead, it showed as if the A.I had taken the initiative to establish a link.


    "What are you doing here, Luthor?" Superman questioned.


    "On behalf of the US government, we arrest you on suspicion of colluding with your species to conquer Earth," Lex''s confident voice reverberated through the intercom.


    Superman sighed, already knowing what Lex wanted. He turned to Manhunter, "Let''s not waste time here." Both of them turned to leave; they didn''t have time to waste here.


    "Don''t run away, Superman. It just proves you are guilty," Lex said.


    "I don''t have time to quarrel with you, Lex," Superman replied, ready to fly away.


    ***


    "Sorry to interrupt your lovers'' quarrel, but this is my sector."


    A green light streaked across space, flying towards them, leaving a green trail with the cosmos as its backdrop. The figure stopped before them in a bright blinding emerald light. The light gradually dimmed, revealing Earth''s first Green Lantern.


    "The Green Lantern would take it from here. Return to your homes and chill," Green Lantern Hal Jordan said with authority.


    "It is my home world," J''onn stepped forward.


    Hal looked at Martian Manhunter intently. He couldn''t stop a native from assisting his home. He had come here due to a warning of an extraterrestrial presence in his sector, and it was his duty to solve it.


    "Okay, I will allow it," Green Lantern said and turned to leave.


    "This is Colonel Trevor; I request your assistance Green Lantern," Trevor asked through the established link. "I know that you have a feud with the air force, but we are sent by the Pentagon to investigate Mars''s abnormality. If you help us, I would rely on your contribution."


    GL turned and looked at the ship in annoyance. "I don''t take orders, Colonel Trevor, but if this would keep you guys off my back." He quickly used his power ring to envelop the ship in a protective shield.


    "You guys insist on going," Green Lantern turned to Superman and Martian Manhunter.


    "Yes," Superman answered resolutely.


    "Ok, but don''t stand in my way," Green Lantern then turned and flew towards Mars at incredible speed. A Green Lantern ring allowed them to travel at great speeds, allowing them to monitor their sector with ease. Their uniform also allowed them to survive extreme climates, with the added ability to create anything as long as they imagine it; they were formidable fighters in any environment. Superman and Manhunter didn''t lag behind and quickly caught up to Green Lantern. The three flew toward the red planet at high speed. Green Lantern was a bit amazed at how these two could keep up with him without any additional power.


    "What are you, Green Lantern?" Superman asked.


    "We are protectors and peacekeepers who monitor the whole universe. Way above your paygrade?" Green Lantern replied with a bit of attitude.


    "But where were you when my people were at civil war?" Martian Manhunter asked.


    Green Lantern didn''t know how to answer that question; after all, he was still new to this superhero gig. "I was only transferred to this sector recently after my predecessor died, so I don''t know about your situation, Martian."


    Manhunter nodded in understanding, but he would investigate later about this abnormal situation.


    "And we only intervene when two different species start to eradicate another or on a big conquest," Green Lantern continued. "When there is unjust motivation for conflict and eradication of species, we intervene. But we can''t always manage every small conflict."


    "You think a species going to war that pushed them to extinction is a little thing," Superman asked, his virtue burning.


    "Hey man, do you have any idea how big the universe is? There are 3600 sectors, each patrolled by a single Green Lantern. Earth is only a single planet in a solar system, where there are hundreds in a sector." Green Lantern retorted.


    Superman didn''t continue; he understood the workload. Even he with his super-speed can''t save everyone and be early to his work. And his work was in a single city most of the time, yet he still can''t save everyone.


    After a long journey, they arrived at the Red planet, landing in the only safe area of a 100,000-mile radius. It was the only area that was not infected by the black plague. He landed the jet shuttle on the ground and watched as the people strolled out in big suits. His eyes were drawn to the biggest one, who stood tall above the others. He could see her face through the visor. Diana''s beautiful face was clearly visible. Green Lantern, in his glory, walked up to Diana and extended his hand.


    "Green Lantern, nice to meet you."


    "It''s good to meet you too," Steve took Green Lantern''s hand and then introduced others, "This is Wonder Woman of Themyscira, and this is Lex Luthor."


    Diana walked off, feeling completely uncomfortable in that suit, to Superman and Martian Manhunter.


    "I am Wonder Woman. I have heard of your feats, Superman, a warrior from space," Wonder Woman introduced herself.


    "It is nice to meet you," Superman returned the gesture. "I have heard of you. Amazonian from Themyscira."


    "The air has changed," Manhunter muttered as he took a deep breath. "It is similar to Earth."


    "Now that you said it, I don''t feel nauseous like my other space visits," Superman commented, taking another breath.


    Seeing that the other two could perfectly breathe, Diana quickly ripped her helmet off and took a fresh breath.


    "What are you doing? Get into the shuttle before you hav-" Trevor paused his panicked shouts, observing that nothing was happening to her.


    Diana felt perfectly normal. She felt like she was back on Earth; even the gravity was similar, just that she felt like she was in a desert.


    "I can breathe here, Steve. It''s just like back on Earth," Wonder Woman replied.


    "Are you feeling okay?" Steve yet asked.


    "Yes, you don''t need to worry. Mars''s inhospitable atmosphere has changed. Even though the composition of air is different here," Manhunter assured.


    Steve turned to his team, ready to check the atmosphere before he let his men remove their suits. The soldiers quickly unloaded the measuring equipment to take a reading.


    Instead of waiting, Green Lantern asked his ring. [Air composition: 20% Oxygen, 70% Nitrogen, and 10% other gases.]


    "The air composition is similar to Earth''s," Green Lantern stated as he scanned the area. "I will take my leave; duty calls."


    Green Lantern took flight, turning into a green streak across Mars''s sky. He flew in the direction of the infected lands.


    "We should leave," Martian stated, walking forward. "I will take you to the capital."


    "Yes," Superman floated and then turned to Wonder Woman, "Sorry, but here we separate. There is a war to end."


    "War?" Wonder Woman questioned.


    "Yes," Superman turned and followed Martian Manhunter.


    Wonder Woman''s gaze lingered on Superman and Martian Manhunter. She turned to Trevor to notice him remove his helmet.


    "Trevor, I will go with them and stop this war." Wonder Woman said as she took flight.


    "Wait,"


    But before Trevor could finish, Wonder Woman took off, following Superman and Martian Manhunter.

 43 - Collision

    Wonder Woman caught up to Superman and Manhunter as they were about to enter through the mouth of a crack that led to the intricate tunnels of the Martian cities. Superman turned to Wonder Woman with a furrowed brow.


    "Don''t you need to protect them?" he questioned, nodding towards the people they had left behind.


    "Steve would be safe," Wonder Woman replied as she equipped her shield while keeping her sword sheathed. "I am here for a fight, and fight I would get."


    "Then don''t mind me taking you up on that offer," Manhunter said, turning to the duo with a hardened face. "The enemies have reached the capital. The Martians are surrounded; we need to hurry."


    Manhunter took off at full speed, traversing the tunnels with natural ease. Superman and Wonder Woman followed Manhunter without lagging behind. They traveled deeper into the earth, and the light dimmed, but it didn''t hinder their movements.


    Superman finally understood why the humans never discovered the Martians. They were hiding deep within the crust, on a planet inhabitable to humans.


    ''Hide,'' Martian Manhunter came to a sudden halt at an intersection, morphing to be invisible.


    Superman and Wonder Woman halted next to Manhunter, hiding in the shadows and looked out at the tunnels to notice a parade of black humanoids with green circuitry lines.


    Manhunter connected his mind to the psychic cloud and contacted a M''hontrr near him. ''This is M''''hontrr J''onn J''onzz, report the situation.''


    ''Huh! M''hontrr J''onzz, you have returned,'' The Martian was relieved to hear that the war hero had returned to save them. ''Sir, we are surrounded on all sides. The priests are stalling the enemies at the east caves. The other sides are losing grounds.''


    ''What of the enemies'' powers?'' The Martian quickly relayed the information he knew. Digesting the information, Martian Manhunter relayed it to Superman and Wonder Woman. ''Their energy blasters disintegrate substance, invulnerable to damage, vulnerable to electric attack and their psychic is protected.''


    ''We need to avoid the blasters and use the enemy as our shield,'' Wonder Woman suggested as she drew her sword.


    ''Or we can just blast through them,'' Superman smirked, his eyes glowing red.


    The trio exchanged glances and nodded in agreement. The trio''s bodies blurred as they used their full speed and attacked the unsuspecting enemies before they could realize. The Mechmorphs were ripped, sliced, and burned as they pushed through with full force. The Mechmorphs could only fire their blasters in hope to catch the enemy, but the trio evaded the energy blasts with ease.


    Martian Manhunter used his telekinesis to split the Mechmorphs like the red sea. Superman and Wonder Woman took the unarmed Mechmorphs with force. Superman just decimated them with his Heat-vision, while Wonder Woman sliced and diced the Mechmorphs as she moved.


    They quickly destroyed the Mechmorphs army as they moved forward, cutting down their numbers in seconds, while the Martians faced difficulties.


    Superman with his heat-vision was doing more damage than both Martian Manhunter and Wonder Woman together. The Mechmorphs that were damaged by heat-vision were cubed by other Mechmorphs, while the others kept pushing forward; they needed to keep the pressure.


    ...


    ~BAM~


    J''emm pushed into the War room with force, his emotion controlled and determination oozing from his psychic signature. He had barged in after not finding his mother at the throne room where she was giving instruction for cities maintenance in time of war.


    "J''emm, what are you doing here?" King J''axx asked his son, angered at his son for barging in without permission. But he noticed the G''arrunn girl he was holding hands with, "And who is that girl?"


    J''emm took a step forward confidently, "Father, let me introduce you to the girl I love, S''yraa S''mitt."


    "J''emm, it is not the time," King J''axx said with gritted teeth. His anger was boiling at the thought of his son marrying a G''arrunn, an impure Martian.


    "I think it''s as good as any time," J''emm replied.


    "You!!" The king was enraged.


    "Majesty, I think it is not wise to make decisions in this tense time," The Queen regent stopped her husband.


    She could feel the changes in J''emm, the war and guilt had changed him/ She could see that her child had grown, and his eyes showed his determination in this decision.


    "Majesty, the assault team has been assembled," General X''araa X''elthar walked in, bringing with him a few known M''hontrr. "They will lead the others and are ready to sacrifice."


    "Are we sending a team to fight Zion?" J''emm questioned the General.


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    General X''araa X''elthar bowed and answered, "Yes, Prince J''emm. We would lose a battle of attrition, so we should strike the enemy head to gain an advantage." The General explained.


    "Then let me go with you," J''emm asked the General.


    "What!"


    "No!"


    "You will not be going anywhere!"


    The General, the Queen, and S''yraa exclaimed at J''emm.


    "J''emm, why do you want to go too? It''s dangerous," The queen said.


    "Yes," S''yraa agreed.


    "Listen to your mother, Prince J''emm," The General advised, "This mission is too dangerous, and we might never make it whole."


    "But¡ª"


    "Sir, M''hontrr J''onn J''onzz has returned," A Martian relayed the news, "And he brought help. They are pushing the enemies back."


    With the message, a short memory was shared, showcasing Manhunter, Superman, and Wonder Woman beating the hell out of the Mechmorphs. The increasing numbers of Mechmorphs dwindled in seconds.


    "J''onn J''onzz brought more of them," King commented. "That man wears the same symbol as the girl."


    "But she helped us," J''emm commented. "They could be of help. I will guide you to the destination, and we will take back our land."


    "Prince J''emm," General X''araa X''elthar said in a soft voice.


    J''emm turned and looked him in the eyes, "Let me do it, I want to wash the guilt of running like a coward."


    ...


    -Cyberverse-


    In the midst of floating programs, each signifying a representation of a different part of this universe, these ones and zeros create a new world with more abstract laws than the original. These laws fully function in only on and off. This was the space where code resided in the cyberverse, the world wide web.


    In this insentient world was the only sentient program, swimming in the sea of algorithms, catching fishes of code. He felt joy as he dug out secrets that were hidden deep within the system; it was his fun activity. He had already dug so much dirt on the government; he could flip it like a table. So much darkness hidden within the confines of privacy. The whole place was filled with the sins of mankind, the ones that were forgotten and hidden.


    Z.A.I was now in control of all available networks. If you buy a new phone, he would be there. If you buy a new camera, he would be there; he is in your submarine, he is in your car. Where there is tech, he is there¡ªeven in the smart toilet.


    So basically, he had full control on human civilization.


    But at the moment, he was not digging dirt on people. He was observing the feed from Mars while analyzing all the information, predicting the next best action. His eyes scanned the screens of zeros and ones, showing images that he received from all around the system.


    One such picture showed the image of Manhunter and Wonder Woman decimating the Mechmorph army, transmitted from the re-breather Superman was wearing. He knew that the Mechmorph army wouldn''t be of much help in defeating this trio. Another image showed Lex Luthor''s team marching through the red desert of Mars, and Steve Trevor in turmoil, clearly due to Diana''s departure. Lex probably wanted to check the infected ground, but Steve wanted to follow Diana, their conflicting motives creating sparks.


    The third came from the Mechmorphs. It showed a guy wearing bright green tights fighting Mechmorphs using hard-light based constructs. He was getting surrounded, but his rings'' power kept him from getting cubed. Since the green constructs were energy-based, the dehydration gun was not effective as it was on Matter.


    He then shifted to the other screens, turning from the Mars feed to Earth''s. He had full access to Gotham''s CCTV, his eyes scanning, collecting, and filing evidence of crimes in real-time. He would send those to Bats later.


    At the same time, he was deploying Metallo to keep Metropolis safe while hunting down a little demon. With Superman''s absence not prominent yet, the criminals were still guarded, but a visit from the Death Knight would keep them in check if they ever tried. Metallo with his upgrades would prove a very hard opponent since he doesn''t mind dividing people with his kryptonite sword.


    But those were his secondary purposes; his primary mission was to be a hunting dog.


    But this was of no significance, as the players have already arrived at their positions. Only a bit more time before the match begins and the world turns over.


    ...


    -Gotham-


    Batman hunting tonight, a report of a suspicious presence at the docks planting some kind of bomb, and it didn''t take much for him to find the prey. The big guy draped in a cloak ran the minute he noticed Batman''s presence. Their chase led them through Gotham''s darkest.¡ªdirty alleys, abandoned buildings, and to the spacious roofs. Batman used his arsenal to trap the giant, but his opponent bulldozed like a bull through them like a bull. And it didn''t take long for Gotham''s P.D to get on their tails.


    Three helicopters circled Gotham''s crime alley hunting the elusive Batman, and they found him chasing another, jumping across roofs.


    ~TUTUTUUTUTUTUUT~ (Helicopter noise)


    [''We have Batman on sight'']


    [''He''s running after someone.'']


    [''Man? Woman? What?'']


    [''I can''t tell. Face is covered.'']


    [''Is it one of them?'']


    [''The way they leap twenty feet at a time? I''d say yes.'']


    [''Then bring them down.'']


    The orders were relayed, and the soldiers rained fire on Batman and his friend, whom he was chasing after. Batman quickly pulled his cape and rolled away from the range, avoid getting shot. The giant used Batman''s distraction to jump across easily landing on the other side.


    Batman used his wrist launcher to shoot some smoke missiles at the choppers to distract them.


    "Idiots!" He grunted. The giant saw that Batman was busy dealing with the choppers and took his chance to escape. But Batman, the unrelenting, used his grappling gun to shoot his target, piercing his calves and used the grappling gun''s pulling momentum to tackle his opponent.


    Batman''s tackle sent them tumbling down the roof, destroying public properties. Batman in the midst of the roll managed to grab his opponent''s collar and slammed him to the guardrail, his eyes staring into the otherworldly creature.


    "What were you doing at the docks? What are you guys planning? Talk before¡ª


    Before Batman could finish, the creature exploded with power, successfully pushing back Batman. Batman grunted in pain, his bones cracked, and when he got up, a metallic fist punched down. Batman rolled with the punched, evading the combo. He stood back up, ready to throw hands with this metallic creature.


    He analyzed the creature''s moments while noting its appearance. Humanoid grotesque creature with greenish skin infused with bronze cybernetics, big red eyes, sharp teeth, and deadly claws. Totally looks like a demon from hell.


    The description matched that of one he received from the Flash. Another had attacked Central City and was taken down by Flash. He had informed Batman of this otherworldly creature''s presence since he was expecting an invasion. The creature was sent to Star Labs for analysis but nothing of note yet. The demon moved, its claws outstretched to tear Batman to ribbons.


    ~Clank~


    A birdarang lodged itself on the demon''s head, beeping.


    ~BOOOM~

 44 - Metallos Return

    It was silent.


    It was dark.


    It was comfort.


    It was tranquil.


    It felt like a good, long sleep ¨C one that you hadn''t experienced in years, a deep slumber after decades of nightmares. A feeling of lethargy, like a thick fog drowning your senses. Tiredness in the morning drew, casting a subtle veil over the waking consciousness. A sensation as if emerging from a long dive in the ocean, a subtle pressure lifting off your skin.


    It would have been a thrilling experience for an insomniac, but not for Metallo. He was a cyborg, and cyborgs don''t sleep.


    His eyes flicked to life, a green hue illuminating the darkness. He scanned his surroundings, but the light was swallowed by the darkness a few feet away from him. He knew from his posture that he was standing upright.


    He tried to move his head, but it was stuck. He attempted to move his hands to check his neck, but they stayed still. He tried to command his system, yet nothing worked. He was imprisoned in his own body.


    Embers of fear lit in the cyborg''s mind. He couldn''t die yet. Superman was alive. He can''t and wouldn''t die without killing him. Yes, he will not die without killing him. There was even another, yes, that girl.


    Slowly, Metallo recalled his fight with Kara. He had ambushed her at the dock and got a clear hit on her with his kryptonite blaster, then they fought more, and he finally drowned her. Then...then...He couldn''t remember.


    He couldn''t remember how the rest of the fight progressed, but he knew he was defeated. With his careful analysis, he could only deduce Superman''s timely intervention. He, Metallo, was defeated again.


    "You are finally awake."


    A calm voice alerted Metallo to another presence. He scanned the darkness around him, instantly locking onto another emission of light. A screen on what looked like a helmet lit up with Neon light, taking the shape of an emoticon. (?¨C?)


    "Took you long enough,"


    The voice approached, its tone bionic, but it stayed hidden in the darkness. The figure was shorter than his towering frame. Metallo was a giant standing at the height of 8 feet, dwarfing anyone who stood next to him.


    "I thought you would not wake up," The figure muttered as he walked around Metallo, checking his frame. "It would have been a waste if you were useless."


    "Who are you?" Metallo broke his silence, his voice more metallic than bio.


    The guy made a full circle around and stopped before Metallo. Metallo could hear a slight rustle of fabric, confirming that the man before him was wearing a suit. He was analyzing his opponent even as he stood still.


    "Me?" The guy pointed at himself, his hand illuminating with a golden glow, "I am Neon, the guy you work for now."


    Neon spread his hand, his suit lighting up with golden patterns running all over it. The golden glow illuminated the surroundings, revealing nothing but darkness.


    "I work for no one," Metallo replied with a bite.


    Neon pocketed his hand and said with a cheeky grin, "You are now." His suit''s cuffs lit up with neon gold, running up his arm. Neon removed his hands from his pocket and lifted them up, clearly imitated by Metallo''s body, without his control.


    "After all, I am in control," Neon said as he dropped back, a force field extended from his suit, molding into a throne for him to sit. "So, wanna talk?" He smirked.


    "What have you done to me?" Metallo questioned, while trying to regain control over his body.


    Neon shifted in his throne, trying to find a comfortable position. He finally just slacked on the throne, his fist supporting his head. He looked at Metallo''s appearance, a ghostly skull of a face with bright green orbs for eyes, giving an eerie feeling to anyone who gazed at him. His edgy metallic knight armor covered his whole body, making him more intimidating. Standing like a giant carrying a great sword.


    Neon''s design was that of an undead knight who climbed out of hell to hunt you down in an unending pursuit.


    "A full system upgrade and major body modifications," Neon answered nonchalantly, tapping a projected screen on his wrist. He then commanded the changes to be known to Metallo.


    The information on the modification flooded Metallo''s mind, stunning him silent for a moment. His whole body was altered to something more powerful, more potent than his old body.


    Metallo''s eyes lit up more brightly as he focused on Neon again, his interest in this fellow increasing, but his wariness was also peaked.


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    Seeing Metallo silent, Neon tilted his head, a sad expression taking his visor. ?_? "Do you not like my makeover?"


    Metallo remained silent seeing the emoticon; he knew that guy was not sad from his voice. He was just messing around.


    "But it''s of the essence; you look scary," Neon stated, returning to his lazy position," But I am here to offer you a chance, Metallo. I could have just erased your consciousness and installed another."


    Metallo felt chills in his system at the statement. Erasing his consciousness meant his death, and he was not ready to die.


    "What do you need?" Metallo asked, finally relenting.


    "You do the job I give you without any slip-ups," Neon stated, "You can do whatever you want after that."


    "If I refuse?" Metallo questioned.


    "You already know the answer," Neon rose up with a smile, "I replace you with someone capable."


    "Okay, I will work with you," Metallo agreed, he didn''t have any other choice.


    At his answer, the giant knelt, his head held down. Neon made a £¨£þ¦á£þ£©smiley face and patted Metallo''s metallic form. Metallo clearly understood the show of control. If he accepted now and tried to go back later, he would still be under control like a chained dog.


    "Do well," Neon stated.


    Metallo, out of control, could only grit his teeth and accept his fate. "I shall comply."


    "Neat," Neon turned his back to Metallo, "Keep yourself hidden here until I give you your order."


    He then proceeded to walk away from Metallo, slowly disappearing into the darkness. His glow vanished, swallowed by the darkness. Metallo stayed in the kneeling position for an unknown time before he gained back his control.


    Metallo stood up, his gaze lingering in the direction Zion vanished. His visuals were still limited, unable to look into the darkness. As he stood still in contemplation, a mechanical voice rang in his mind.


    [System initiated]


    [10% ]


    [20%]


    [30%]


    [40%]


    [50%]


    [60%]


    [70%]


    [80%]


    [90%]


    [...


    ...]


    [99%]


    [100%]


    [Complete]


    It was as if a fog was lifted in Metallo''s mind. Everything became visible to him, and the darkness surrounding him disappeared as his eyes peered through the veil. He was in a building with many craters covered in nets. From the dust accumulated, it hadn''t been used in months.


    Metallo checkedhis system; the feedback provided in-depth details about his body and the alterations made. Metallo lifted his hands and saw the spiky gauntlet adorning his arm. He liked the redesign; it reflected his pursuit to bring death to Superman.


    Metallo reached behind and gripped the hilt of his Kryptonite Slayer, a giant sword with a kryptonite edge. He could feel its strength as if it were alive. Yes, he felt the sword was alive; he didn''t know if it was due to his upgraded program or something else.


    He hadn''t fully dealt with the fact that he was now a slave to someone, but, "As long as I get the power to kill Superman," Metallo muttered as he sheathed his sword on his back.


    Now, he wait,


    ...


    And it didn''t take long for Metallo to receive his orders.


    In the ecstasy of freedom, Metallo blew up his confines. He used his propulsion system to take to the skies, his dark-green metallic coat giving him cover in the night sky. Metallo''s eyes glowed with a greenish hue as the city of Metropolis became dissected into grids, revealing everything and everyone present.


    The details of his mission flashed in his mind, a clear image of his prey. A cyborg but more primitive and bestial, with little to no intelligence. Metallo felt disgusted at the creature; it was an abomination.


    In minutes, he got a ping on the creature. His system tracked the sighting and deduced its probable path and hiding spot. The boosters on Metallo increased in power, giving a burst boost to his flight.


    It took less than a minute for Metallo to arrive at the location.


    He stopped his boosters and plunged into the building, breaking through many concrete walls. Metallo''s body felt no wall; it just broke through them like they were wet paper. The sound of concrete shattering filled the empty car park.Metallo broke the final wall and stuck the superhero landing.


    ...


    In the darkness of the underground, dust of broken concrete filled the vision, obstructing the perpetrator of destruction. A soft light fluttered through the broken opening, illuminating the darkness dimly.


    ~Pluck~Pluck ~Pluck~


    ~Ziiinngggg~


    In the darkness, the sound of concrete chunks falling filled the empty floor. A dark silhouette rose from the rubble, ghastly green eyes ignited. The green flames wandered, trying to find its prey. The dark giant moved its hands, metals clanking against each other, and grabbed the hilt of its giant sword.


    The floor was silent, proving no presence of living.


    Metallo scanned the floor, darkness clear as light. He took a step forward, concrete shattering under his weight. He gripped his sword, and it responded with a hum, illuminating the floor in a greenish hue. Metallo took another step forward, his stance spread.


    "Not going to come," he muttered in a chilly voice.


    His voice echoed. He knew his prey was here, hunting him.


    "Fine," Metallo muttered as he made a swift turn and slashed with his sword at the ceiling.


    The Kryptonite Slayer revealed the hidden creature as it removed its shoulder from its body and continued to slice through the 10-inch concrete. The creature reacted to the slash by jumping back into the darkness, but clearly not in time.


    Metallo locked eyes with the creature, its severed wound closing. The creature growled, angered. Its metallic body transformed, forming pincers from its back. Its chest lit up with power, and it roared in a screeching cry.


    Metallo brought his sword forward. He had never used a sword as his primary weapon. But the new system had programmed for battle mode with many different fighting styles, allowing him to use his power efficiently.


    ~SCRRRREEEECH~


    The creature launched, ready to tear Metallo to ribbons. Its pincers extended to skewer Metallo. But Metallo remained calm; he moved his sword with a clear path. A green arc formed in the air, a wave of power extending from the sword.


    The creature, sensing danger, dodged to its left.


    *Blood spurted*


    A clean cut from the right shoulder to its pelvis, removing half of its body. The dissected body slid to the floor, with a chilling splash.


    Metallo didn''t wait; he moved, closing the distance between himself and the demon. He lifted his sword high, performing a perfect slash, removing the upper body from the lower. The demon had no way to block the blurring green.


    Its upper torso slid from its legs, dead.


    Metallo stabbed its head, a final blow to kill it. The sword moved uninterrupted.


    Metallo drew his sword and shook it off of blood. He attached it to his back and ripped the chest of the demon with his own hands, removing a box hidden from its insides.


    "It''s the one," Metallo muttered.


    ["Yes."]


    A confirmation.


    "What do I do with it?" Metallo asked for his next orders.


    ["Take the cube to this location and wait."]


    "Hum," Metallo grunted in agreement.


    ["And destroy the body."]


    Metallo used his energy blaster and melted the body.

 45 - Ending

    - Ma''aleca''andra -


    The assault on Martian''s capital city moved past its critical point.


    The Mechmorphs had more advantage in this war then Martians. Mechmorphs outnumbered and outgunned the Martian race, they were virtually immortals in their domain. Yet, the Martians fought valiantly without breaking.


    They showed their mettle by never relenting.


    Which bought them enough time for the Earth''s mightiest to intervene and change the tides of war. Manhunter squashed the Mechmorphs with his unpralleled psychic field, Wonder Woman sliced and cleaved the mechmorphs, and Superman ripped them apart with his bare hands while using Heat-vision to render the Mechmorphs useless


    With the trio''s intervention in battle, the pressure on the Martian''s reduce more than half, allowing them to take a breather. The Martians, with the shift of tides, fought more aggressively, but they were of no consequence to the Mechmorphs. Only the elite of them could even approach them, or even try to hurt them.


    Yet, the trio kept the Mechmorphs at bay until the backup unit arrived from other Martian cities. The increased amount to Martians succeeded in stalling the Mechmorphs until the supers arrived to their sides.


    The Battle continued for a while with Superman, Wonder Woman, and Manhunter splitting them among the battlefields. And after a long and draining battle, they managed to make the Mechmorphs retreat.


    The Mechmorphs retreated into the holes they came from. The trio didn''t follow the Mechmorphs into the tunnels, least they fall into a trap.


    The Martian''s rejoiced, and a hymn of cheer reverberated through martian colony. The Martians forgot their differences and cheered with each other. The civilians that were hiding, walked out with relief.


    But the joy didn''t last long.


    The Martian''s saw the flying Supers and they notice their appearance. They were humans, even if they weren''t biologically the same. The hate in their heart was ignited, after all the one who caused this was also human.


    ''You have come again!!!''


    ''You Earthers have come to decieve us again?!!!''


    ''You not only ruin your home but you have come for ours.''


    ''Get lost!''


    ''Leave our home!''


    ''Leave!''


    ''Leave!''


    ''Leave!''


    The Martians roared in anger and hate. They didn''t want anymore relation with these humans. The massive psychic chant caused Superman and Wonder Woman to grit their head in pain. After all, someone of not your kind thinks differently.


    Manhunter promptly interfered with attack and created a psychic shield to protect from further assault.


    ''Martians!'' Mahunter appeared in the psychic cloud.


    The Martians felt a powerful mind appear in the mind cloud{it was getting repetitive}. They could fell his psychy dominion over the cloud. It was heavy, but soft. J''onn J''onzz only wanted their attention.


    ''Martians, I know that you are distraught due to the war. But I am one of you, I have fought by you, and you know me,'' J''onn brought the attention to himself and presented his argument. ''These two are heroes of earth, they have saved many lives and they have come to our aide.''


    ''How can we be sure that they are on our side?''


    ''It was one of them who started this war.''


    ''We can''t trust them.''


    ''But you can trust me,'' Martian argued, ''I am here to stop this war, and so are they.''


    ''We trust you, J''onn,'' Another commanding presence invaded the cloud.


    ''Majesty,'' J''onn bowed in a show of respect.


    ''J''onn J''onzz, I would have liked to have met again in a peaceful setting,'' King J''axx said as he turned to his people. ''You all know J''onzz and his achievements. He is the strongest of us. He ended the last war, so will this one.''


    The crowd remained silent at the kings words.


    ''Come to the palace, we got much to discuss. Bring your friends with you.'' The king left with those words.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    ***


    J''emm was rejected and was confined in his room for an indefinite time.


    S''yraa looked at J''emm as he floated restlessly, his mind wandering about. She could tell that he was dejected about his father confining him. She was confined with him as to keep them both here and not give J''emm a reason to run around.


    It was his mothers idea, which was opposed by his father.


    ''J''emm, you should stop worrying,'' S''yraa stopped J''emm, ''Nothing is going to happen by worrying. The council know what they are doing, they will win this war. Even the war hero J''onn J''onzz is here, with superman.''


    ''You don''t understand, S''yraa. Zion is not some random warmonger, he is more powerful than anyone I have know, I saw him in action.''


    ''I understand, J''emm,'' S''yraa pulled J''emm to sit down. ''But we can''t do anything when the elders want us to stay put.''


    ''I got to go, S''yraa, I got to join the fight,'' J''emm stood up, his emotions running amok, ''If not, how can I wash the my shame? How can I earn back my self-respect?''


    S''yraa understood J''emm''s feeling, after all they were connected on a deeper bond. She knew how much J''emm tormented himself about letting his people down, his family and even himself.


    ''You are not a coward, J''emm,'' S''yraa pulled J''emm closer, ''There was nothing you could have done in the situation and you brought the news of war for the council, to prepare and not be blindsided. If you hadn''t, the Martians wouldn''t have know what hit them.''


    S''yraa made a sounding argument. If J''emm didn''t come inform, they wouldn''t have known what hit them until later. But the situation was different.


    ''S''yraa, I didn''t retreat. I was let go because I was of no consequence,'' J''emm explained. ''I was too weak to even threaten him.''


    ''But what can we even do? In this scale of war, our intervention wouldn''t make a shift,'' S''yraa.


    ''It doesn''t matter, I have to do something... I can do something,'' J''emm got a flash of inspiration. ''I can join the assault team by shifting.''


    ''J''emm, its dangerous. And you will be found instantly by the general,'' S''yraa was getting worried for J''emm. If he really, really, wanted to do this, she would help him and assist him by being there with him.


    ***


    - Palace hall -


    The council had gathered with all their generals. They had all regathered to discuss the battle plan to move forward in war. They were also many Martians present in the room, they were all armed to the teeth.


    These Martians were the elites gathered for the assault team who will attack Zion in his base. These Martians were the best of the best remaining Martians who survived.


    ''They will assist you in this mission,'' King J''axx stated as he pointed at the Martians armed to the teeth with weapons. ''We have been waiting to give you your Bio-ship, but the war had delayed things.'' King J''axx


    ''Its fine, Your Majesty,'' J''onn J''onzz replied humbly.


    ''Take them with you and bring an end to this war,'' King J''axx commanded, followed by the collective salute of the Martians.


    The Martians spirit were all time high and they were ready to fight to the death to end this war and protect their people. They were resolute in their decisions.


    J''onn gave a final bow to the king before taking flight for the final battle of the war. Their was not dramaticness in the whole charade, but tension was palpable in the air. The Martians collectively kept their hopes on the Assault team.


    This was their final chance at wining this war.


    ..


    ''We should do this swift,'' Wonder Woman commented


    The trio was flying at the forefront of the assault team. Six Bio-ships flew at their rear, guarding them. They have yet to enter the enemy terretory so they were blatant in their approch.


    "Let me talk to him first," Superman interjected.


    Manhunter nodded. They should try to negotiate first, and try to solve the problem first. But he doubted the Martians would be patient enough to converse, after all they have lost many in battle, disintegrated into cubes.


    ''We are approaching enemy boarder, go stealth,'' Manhunter took command of the operation.


    While the trio remains the same, the assault team went camou as they became transparent to the eyes. This was an advance stealth that even heat vision wouldn''t pick them up, letting most kind of signal pass though them.


    The Bio-Ships also entered the camouflage state to not alert the enemies.


    If the enemy knew their were coming, they would be surrounded and attack. The assault team could handle that much fire power.


    ***


    *Boom* *Bam* *Boom*


    "When will these stop coming?" Green Lantern, Hal Jordan, shouted as he formed a shield to block another energy blast.


    He had rushed into the enemy lines, trusting in his capabilities. When he flew in, their was much of anything except the dark ground. He scan the materials found on the planet, but the ring came up with nothing, the material was unknown.


    He then continued to venture further, and he met with retaliations. Ten of Mechmorphs morphed out of the ground, pointing their blasters at him in silence. Hal, being who he is, retaliated by blasting them with his ring''s power.


    Mechmorphs attacked, fired back, ready to cube the man in green spandex. This continued and escalated to the point Green Lantern was surrounded by hundreds, if not thousands of Mechmorphs.


    They kept blasting at him with their dehydration blaster and Green Lantern used his energy constructs to defend himself.


    "This is getting annoying!!!" Green Lantern gritted his teeth in annoyance.


    Green Lantern created a massive bat and swept at the Mechmorphs, throwing them off like golf balls. Mechmorphs, immortals in their domain, kept popping back to attack him, They kept pushing Green Lantern towards the center. Hal Jordan in his pride wouldn''t run away from the fight.


    He could have escaped the siege by flying up. Mechmorphs can''t fly, not yet.


    Like this, the team was in a stand still. The Mechmorphs blasters could break Green Lantern''s shield, while Green Lantern couldn''t put an end to the Mechmorphs.


    ***


    The super trio flying at the forefront of the attack halted at the skies.


    They were watching as Green Lantern battle thousand of Mechmorphs slowly pushing forward into the enemy territory. Green Lantern was like a bulb in surrounded by moths. Even the war worn Martians felt chills at the number of Mechmorphs Green Lantern was facing.


    ''Should we help?'' Wonder Woman asked.


    ''I... don''t know,'' Superman was skeptical of helping Green Lantern.


    He was not exactly going to abandon Green Lantern, but he was still reluctant about helping Green Lantern.


    ''I think we should help,'' Manhunter stated, ''His shield is able to stop those energy blasts.''


    Manhunter pointed at Green Lantern covered in a greenball protecting him from the energy blasts.


    ''So, we help him,'' Wonder woman asked as she brought her shield.


    ''Yes,'' Mahnunter answered.


    ''Okay,'' Superman agreed.


    The trio dived from the sky, leaving the hidden Martian troop.

 46 - Ending war #2

    War is hell, a raging flame,


    Innocent hearts caught in its deadly game.


    Soldiers march with no true cause,


    Fighting wars, breaking natural laws.


    Why do we fight, why do we bleed?


    Is it worth the pain, the suffering we heed?


    For a cause that''s fueled by greed,


    In this cycle of war, what do we need?


    Citizens caught in the crossfire''s wrath,


    Left to rebuild on the war''s bloodied path.


    Why should they suffer, why should they pay?


    In the chaos of war, does anyone sway?


    Why do we fight, why do we bleed?


    Is it worth the pain, the suffering we heed?


    For a cause that''s fueled by greed,


    In this cycle of war, what do we need?


    Trapped in violence and hate,


    We hold onto hope, it''s not too late.


    One day, peace will reign, we''ll repair,


    From the chains of war, we''ll break free and dare.


    Why do we fight, why do we bleed?


    Is it worth the pain, the suffering we heed?


    For a cause that''s fueled by greed,


    In this cycle of war, what do we need?


    {Credited to ChatGpt}


    A heavy music filled the crystal city. The very air distorted, shaking those who heard it to the core. The electric guitar caused static in the air, sparks flew across the floor. The room lit up like a disco ball, lighting in a different color.


    The giant crystal on top of the high tower was a beacon for stars, guiding them to their destination.


    Zion, wearing his costume, struck the strings with force. The meticulously made strings played notes that humans have never heard. The music was a symphony of emotions and chaos, one that struck the hearts of the listeners. The listeners resonated with the songs; those of the war-torn country were more than emotional; they were enraged.


    They had gone through so much; what have they done to deserve this? They were just ants caught in the middle of an elephant''s fight.


    Zion finished his musical with a final stroke, sending shivers to those who heard. He had been playing for the past hour. He had crafted an electric guitar while he was bored, using all the advanced knowledge to make a guitar so perfect that physicists would go insane.


    Zion then turned to the controls. A hologram floated about, showing his live recording. He was wearing a pitch-black tuxedo with a gold shirt, with a crystalline electric guitar in his hand. He was also wearing his helmet.


    Zion was not just playing the music for himself, but for the whole of Earth. With Z.A.I''s help, every electronic device was playing his song, only his song. In short, all of Earth''s communication was hacked and was under his control. And for the last hour, they were only listening to him. This had already made humans go bombastic as they tried to search for the hacker, but couldn''t. Not only that, they couldn''t even communicate with each other. So, they were all like stranded survivors.


    Of course, there was a way of communication left.


    "Hello viewers, Did you like my song?" Zion questioned.


    He was live streaming while also taking control of Earth. When the stream started, people were terror-stricken as their devices were taken over and only showed his stream. They could only watch the stream.


    "I hope you did," Zion muttered as he sat back at his chair, his visor displaying an enigmatic smile.


    This was a one-way communication.


    "I know that all of you are confused," Zion muttered. "How did I take over your devices? Why can''t you close the program? Why am I even here? Don''t worry, I am here to answer."


    Zion waved his hand, invoking a holographic control panel. He was now taking command of the stream.


    "I am Neon from Mars. Nice to meet you, civilians of Earth.


    Yes, from Mars, your sister planet. Yes, it''s not a dead planet. And yes, there are aliens. I am one too, in a sense.


    But what I am here for now is to inform you of something of most significance. Due to the atrocities humans have caused in the last few decades, I have decided to take control, on the fact that humans are too idiotic to handle themselves.


    Do not worry, I am not going to be a dictator and your normal lives won''t be affected by any means. I dare say that your lives would be improved. Think of this as a change in management. Yes, management.


    Again, none of you who choose not to fight this change will be harmed in any way. All you got to do is stay home and watch the show. I hope none of you intervene as I do plan on a bit of pest control.


    As for the government, what are you going to do? I literally have control over everything. I have your nukes, I have your missiles, I have your jets, I have your boats, I have your cars. What are you going to fight with? Bicycles?


    You know what? I would love to see you guys fight on bicycles.


    Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    For those who think that they could do evil because the network is down, think twice. The network is not down, just under different management and a tougher one. So I hope you mind your own business while the cleaning happens.


    And for the Metas, you who had superpowers, don''t intervene. Your whole system is rigged and corrupted. I am just cleaning. So, viewers, enjoy the fireworks. Don''t miss it!"


    The stream ended. Earth collectively had a moment of silence. The government still didn''t have any mode of communication with their military, nor did the police force have communication with their respective teams. They could communicate and could only fend for themselves. But they had received orders, from military to the constable, had all received orders to evacuate the civilians and take them to safety. The cities were about to become a war zone and the civilians need to be removed to lessen the casualties. The masses reacted differently to the new age. Some panicked, some angry, some didn''t care, while some hoped. Hoped for a better future.


    Zion looked at the stars, they were similar to Earth''s sky, yet different. He knew he had started another war with another species with his declaration. Those hidden in the dark would emerge, to fight him.


    But What can they do?


    He wasn''t planning on giving them a chance in the first place. He was going to crush them in a single move. Leaving no chance to retaliate. After all, those who can combat his technology had yet to be born. Only the Meta-humans would retaliate, but they would be of help when a literal army invades. If his play was successful, he should be able to build a better a planet, a better place for both Meta-humans and humans. He will end crime and stop the cycle of hate.


    "Time to roll," Zion said as he walked to the balcony of the high tower. He could see the vast horizon, the purple sky meeting the black land. Due to slight gravitational differences, 1.5 G. It was the violet light that scattered. Zion could see it, the heroes who would save this planet. Green Lantern was carrying them in his jet made of light, rendering the dehydration gun useless. It was good. They shouldn''t be defeated yet. They have a role to play and they should play it right. Zion flew out of his tower, leaving his throne empty. He should greet the guests.


    Zion came to a stop in the skies above the crystal city. The jet made of light approached fast and came to a halt before them. Green Lanterns morphed the jet around them to a sphere, lest they were attacked, unsuspected. The heroes looked at Zion intently, each displaying different emotions.


    "Zion," Superman called.


    "Hi Superman, What brings you here, a long distance away from home?" Zion asked.


    ***


    - Gotham -


    Batman hung on the guardrails, flung by the explosion.


    "Need a hand?" An adolescent voice asked.


    Batman looked up, He met the eyes of his protege. He took the hand and climbed up from the guardrails.


    "What are you doing here?" He inquired.


    "Heard you needed help?" Robin stated as he looked down the building.


    The explosion had pushed the creature down the building, but it was not present in the alley. It had survived and immediately fled from the scene.


    Robin turned to his mentor, "What was it?"


    Batman turned to his wrist computer, "That''s what I am trying to find."


    "Then we need to track him down, in stealth," Robin said and pulled his cloak on him, vanishing from sight.


    Batman''s eyes perked up. Robin hadn''t used a technique to vanish. He had turned invisible where he stood. He had already noticed the changes in Robin''s dress, but he hadn''t questioned since they had a bigger problem.


    ["Gift from your friend, Sir,"] Alfred answered.


    "Zion," Batman muttered under his breath.


    [''He had sent quite a few gifts, I can''t say I hate them. What should I do with yours, sir?'']


    "I will come check later," Batman answered.


    ["I would suggest changing into better gears, Bats,"] Z.A.I commented.


    Batman ignored Z.A.I and called his protege. "Robin."


    "Here," Robin appeared behind Batman, trying to surprise him, but completely failing.


    Batman just gave his a hard look, scrutinizing Robin''s new suit. This suit was a combination of his and Robin''s uniforms. The suit was not bulky but had armor-plates like his Bat-suit. Instead of a Bat in his chest, Robin had a bird, its wings connecting to his shoulder. His cape was segmented like a bird''s wings. He still wore a domino mask.


    "Let''s move," Batman stated before jumping down and using his cape to glide down.


    Robin followed his mentor, replicating Batman''s descent. Batman removed the sewer cover and jumped down, which was followed by Robin. Robin didn''t show any discomfort of entering the sewers, after all, they had been fighting some crocodiles here.


    "What''s with the suit?" Batman finally asked.


    Robin was a bit nervous about wearing the suit without permission. "Well, Zion informed that you might need help. I was about to put my suit, but Alfred brought this and asked me to wear this."


    "Can you only camouflage?" Batman questioned.


    Robin perked up, his nervousness lessening. "No, I got increased strength and speed, an in-built computer for analysis, anti-gravity boots, a minor force-field generator, a wrist blade, an in-built grappling gun, the cloak is bulletproof and can be used to fly, night-vision, thermal-vision, radar, and some others."


    Batman came to a halt and lifted his hand in a fist. Robin instantly understood the gesture, halting his step and staying silent. Batman, leaning on the wall, looked around the corner. He saw the creature melting the wall and inject a cube into it.


    ["That''s the stuff,"] Z.A.I commented.


    Batman wanted to question but stopped himself. He needed to take down the creature first. He turned to his protege, he didn''t need to convey his intent in words. Robin nodded back, turning invisible and crossing to the other side silently.


    Batman pulled all his explosive batarangs and nodded to where Robin was. He jumped out of hiding and threw the batarangs at the creature. Robin didn''t lag behind and used his wrist launcher, something he didn''t have before.


    The batarangs and mini missile collided with the creature in an exploding firework and smoke. The smoke filled the confines, covering all vision.


    [''The creature is not down! It''s going to explode!''] Robin''s panicked voice came through the Coms before Batman felt a force collide with him.


    "FOR THE DARKSEID!!!"


    *BOOOOOM*


    The explosion shook the whole system, raining rocks and boulders into the murky waters. The smoke filled the tunnels even more, rendering everything invisible. One could not see clearly.


    *Broom*


    A slight vibration halted the expanding smoke before it dissolved the smog away. The sight wind blast was attuned to a frequency that made the smoke particles sink.


    "Darkseid?" Robin questioned as he deactivated the forcefield.


    "It was a war cry," Batman answered and walked to the center of the explosion. He saw the half-submerged metallic cube on the wall, unaffected by the explosion. He tried to pull the cube from from the wall, but it was stuck.


    "What is it?" Robin asked as he helped pull the cube.


    The cube easily dislodged from the wall with Robin''s increased strength.


    ["It''s a mother box,"] Z.A.I answered.


    "Explain?" Batman ordered.


    ["Get to this location."]


    Robin''s wrist computer lit up, projecting a GPS signal to a location in Metropolis.

 47 - 1 Vs 4

    {Let me skip some scenes due to the fact that Green Lantern didn''t care for much talking and punched Zion using a giant hard-light fist.}


    Thinks shouldn''t have escalated to this point, they should have talked this out. But Green Lantern, Hal Jordan, was never the type to listen to another. He didn''t really like much of talking in any manner. He very much like to guns blazing with missiles and jets.


    So the moment he was clear Zion was not going to do things the easy way, that was after he greeted everyone else before him, he took his shot. He was planning to take Zion out of the game before any further conversations.


    He willed and his power ring constructed, and swung at Zion the massive fist.


    Zion who was still in his Martian transformation, watched the fist uninterested. He move nothing but his mind. The hard-light stopped a feet before him and shattered. He shifted his gaze to the heroes present, locking eyes with every single one of them.


    "Uncivilized," He worded, his form shifting.


    His suit vanished, morphing into a tight fit dress similar to Martian Manhunter, but fully black. His form lost it''s human form and took the shape of a Martian. His head took a diamond shape, his waist thinned, his height increased, his thick clawed hands, and his sharp teeth were really nightmarish.


    His restrained mind fully spread their wings, plunging them into a psychic pressure that creaked their psychological defenses.


    "But I like it," Morph said with a eerie smile that sends chills.


    "Lets brawl!!"


    Morph vanished and appeared next to Green Lantern. A punch weighting tons connected with Green Lantern''s face, shattering his suits defense. Green Lantern was knocked out of combat in a single move, he would have died if not for the rings defense.


    Morph caught the Green Lantern with his Telekinesis (henceforth TK). He floated next to him and woke up his mind from unconsciousness. Morph looked at Green Lantern''s confused minds, his telepathy filling his mind and uttered a single word that shook his psyche.


    "Weak."


    He then cometed Green Lantern out of Mars. He wasn''t going to hold back, this fight better be a good warm-up. He turned to the trio, his eyes met the guarded gaze of the trio. Manhunter''s face was especially hardened as he could feel the strength of mind. If he was the strongest Martian ever born, the one before him was level above him in raw power.


    But their was always a difference, Morph was untrained. Not in full control or is capable of manipulation of his telepathic powers. Morphs mind was like an ocean that gathered uncontrolled tides, but he couldn''t translate it into finesse.


    He was just forcing his psychic pressure on them.


    ''Lets be careful, he is strong,'' Manhunter stated.


    ''All the better,'' Wonder Woman replied


    "Zion, we don''t need to do this," Superman said, but he was already ready to fight.


    Morph tilted his head, feigning a confused expression before smiling and blurring from his position.


    This time Trio was ready, with their increased agility, they caught the blur. Wonder woman brought the Shield before her, blocking the punch. The shield buzzed in pain, but it withstood the power, but pushed Diana back a hundred meters. Morph didn''t follow, but shifted his density and phased through Superman''s punch.


    "Martians can turned intangible," Martian stated before rushing Morph.


    They collided, Morphs grinned. He could feel Manhunters strength, this man was trained, an expert, in controlling his Martians powers. Morphed formed another pair of arms and punched Martians in the face.


    Manhunter took the hit, unflinchingly. He copied and morphed a pair of arms and delivered a double upper cut. Morph flinched, his head swung back, Manhunters strength was hundred times a normal Martians.


    Morph rolled with the punch, morphed his body and kicked Manhunter away, then immediately density-shifted, avoiding a sword slicing his head. He rolled mid air and slammed the warrioress to the side. He then grabbed her with his TK and molded his TK into a hand and slapped Wonder Woman away.


    He then blasted his Martian vision, colliding with Superman''s heat vision. Moved away and avoided another Martian death ray, He weaved though the two death ray targeting him and pulled the princess to him, ready to used her as meat shield.


    Wonder Woman forgo her shield and pulled her lasso. She threw the lasso at Morph, ready to catch him. Morph shifted his body, slipping through the gaps and caught them with his hand and pulled. The force was enough to lift Diana and accelerate Morph. He pulled close and tackled Wonder Woman.


    "Why are you doing this?" She questioned out of breath.


    Morph still holding the lasso of truth answered, "Fun."


    He didn''t wait and caught her by the neck and threw her at Superman. Superman stopped to catch Wonder Woman.


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    "Are you okay?" Superman asked.


    "I am okay, we need to go serious if we want to put an end to this," Wonder Woman stated as she moved from Superman.


    Morph standing on the dark floor lifted his hand and gestured them to come.


    Manhunter arrived next to Superman and Wonder Woman. He spoke in their minds, ''He has yet to use his telepathic powers, I will cast a defense on your minds. Just in case.''


    The duo didn''t mind as they need to fight another psychic, and Superman never had the best of experience with them. ''What''s the plan?''


    Martian Manhunter had already established a psychic link in them.


    ''We rush him,'' Wonder Woman answered.


    The trio turned to Morph who was just smiling at them. Seeing that they were ready, He jumped up, his stature expanding to a muscular form. He was planning on pummeling the trio. he forced his TK to cover his body like an armor.


    Concentrating the TK on his hand and he punched out, blasting a collapsing force on the trio. Manhunter warned and the trio dodged the invisible attack. Wonder Woman arced and attacked with her lasso. Superman increased his speed and blitzed to Morphs, Manhunter forced Morphs armor to creak.


    Morph shook the TK, shifted fluid, avoiding the lasso and the super-powered punch. He wasn''t planning on taking that punch head on. Wonder Woman flicked her hand, sending the lasso at Morph. Morph in his fluid form floated away, escaping with the wind.


    Superman gave chase, Manhunter followed. Morph halted and changed his direction to attack Wonder Woman. Wonder woman reacted instantly and spun the lasso, circling Morph(??). she pulled, tightening the loop tightened.


    But Morphs TK armor gave him enough space to slip past in the nick of time, yet not enough to avoid the grasp of Martian Manhunter. Manhunter morphed his body to a similar density to hold down Morph, and Superman landed a solid punch.


    *Boom*


    Morph collided with the ground, causing it to rippled. Morph wasn''t knocked out by the punch, he retaliated, using the rippled as a springboard to launch at the trio. He caught with the Superman and broke through Martians TK barrier.


    Manhunter again intervened and caught Morphs fist, just enough for Superman to knock Morph in Wonder Woman''s directions. Wonder Woman waiting for her chance, lifted her hand and slammed her writs bands together, creating a powerful explosion that hit Morph black point range.


    Morph felt his head spin as he fell from the sky, and felt a rope wrap around him. He hand enough battle response to know he would be done if the Lasso of Truth got a hold on him. He morphed and tried to slip away, but Manhunter quickly caught him.


    They both rolled through the air, each striking the other with all their strength. Morph was at a lose at physical strength but he compassionate with TK. They both kept falling, failing to control their flight, or not caring at all.


    They punched, clawed, pecked, burned and blasted each other, their bodies an amalgamation of different creatures.


    Superman couldn''t intervene as the two Martians were shifting as they fight, coiling like two snakes on the death match. Manhunter was relentless, he wanted to beat Morph black and blue, a bit of shellshock affecting him.


    Wonder Woman and Superman stayed near to help.


    "What are you guys standing around for?" Green Lantern returned.


    In his hand a massive blaster, and shot missiles at Manhunter and Morphs. He was thrown into orbit and took control of his mental shock. As a Green Lantern his will power was strong, strong enough to ignite his anger and stabilize his mind. The Ring did the heavy lifting as it channeled its light through him.


    *BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM*


    The missiles tracked and collided with Manhunter and Morph, throwing them in different directions. He didn''t care much for Manhunter, his was angry and wasn''t technically right in the mind. The ring worked because his psyche wasn''t shattered, instead shaken. Green Lantern still had the will to fight and all long as he had will, he would fight.


    Morph rolled on the ground, smoke rising from his body, He wiped his mouth of blood, from Martian Manhunter''s punches, and looked up, meeting Green Lantern''s gaze.


    Green Lantern had a cocky smiled, "Do you still think I am weak?"


    "I don''t, you are," Morph replied.


    The smile on Green Lanterns face replaced with fury and the ring glowed bright. "I will show you!"


    Many constructs formed in the sky, illuminating the night sky in emerald light. Morph just looked at Green Lantern as hundreds of mission guns, missiles and cannons pointed at him. He knew he could block them, Green Lantern wasn''t exactly focused enough to strengthen each.


    Morph lifted his and and focused his TK.


    Green Lantern pulled the trigger.


    *Titititiitiitititiitititiitititiitititiititiititiititiitititiititiititiitititiititiititiititiitititiiti!*


    Green rain down hellfire. The ground was scorched, burned and cratered. Hundred upon hundreds of bullets, flew out with no mercy. The whole place was filled with gun smoke. Green Lantern didn''t care and shot down.


    Superman watching this was ready to interfere, but he felt a hand on his shoulders stopping him. Martian Manhunter pointed at the ground where smoke covered every inch.


    ''He is still standing.''


    Morph was using his TK to shield himself, the dome was enough to withstand Lantern''s power. Green Lantern wasn''t the best tool in the shelf to deal with him, because he knew how to affect his powers. He morphed skin to a different color, he turned from white to full yellow.


    The impurity was still present in the Power Battery, yet to be removed


    Morph lowered his posture while pushing his TK up. The floor sank in pure force as his leg muscles bulged, gathering so much force add with his TK. He jumped, releasing all the force in a single point, causing ripples to spread across the whole planet.


    *Boom*


    Morph blurred into a phantom, breaking through the barrage of bullets. The light constructs couldn''t stop or hurt him and his attack was way faster for Green Lantern to react. He arrived, his gaze meeting Green Lanterns, shocking him. He used his power ring to blast Morph away as final effort.


    But to his surprise, his energy blast didn''t work, nor did it slowed down his opponent.


    Morph pulled back, his hands bulging. Morph was concentrating his power on his fist, and this punch will remind Green Lantern of his dead relatives, maybe even send him to have a vacation with them.


    He punched out, causing a shock wave in the air and it collided.


    *BOOM*


    "Time out, Zion."


    Superman''s voice came from the other end, holding Zions hand in place. This time, he didn''t hold back and punched. In pure physical strength and speed, Morph wasn''t a match to DC''s plot armor. Superman was too strong for anyone to actually beat him and the only reason he was letting Zion have it was due to the assurance of Manhunter.


    Manhunter knew the Zion, in his Martian form, could survive this punch with his regeneration. He knew about Zion abilities.


    A shockwave spread for miles as the punch connected with Morph''s chest. The shear force tore his body, caving his upper torso. Blood flowed out his mouth as his body returned to his original Martian physic.


    Superman scrunched his eyesbrows in guilt, he couldn''t see the kid he had know in this state. Manhunter approached Superman and assured him by point Morph''s hyper-regeneration activating.


    In a matter of second, the blood dried and muscles moved to mend his body together.


    ["Boss transformation begun"]


    ["Game difficulty : Nightmare"]


    ["Task: Survive for the next 5 minutes"]


    ["Meet your ancestor Martian"]


    *****


    Please comment, I really can''t understand statistics. So, your comments motivates me to write as I know people read.

 48 - Arrival

    The night was still young, yet much had already transpired. The sky was cloaked in darkness, the clouds devoid of any glimmering light, while a thick, grey fog gathered ominously, shrouding the world below.


    The stars bore silent witness to the events unfolding, as if testifying to humanity''s enduring memory.


    For this was no ordinary day; it marked the beginning of a revolution, a power struggle that far surpassed any previous conflicts. It was the day when mortals dared to challenge the authority of gods, igniting a great war that would echo through the annals of history. This pivotal moment would never fade from memory, serving as the harbinger of what was yet to come.


    In the hidden path, hidden in the veil of shadows. A beast made of metal rode towards its destination. It''s passengers sat in silence of the impending collision of worlds. Many lights blinked in silence, static of noise in the backdrop.


    Batman kept his gaze to the destination, but his mind wondered about the cube in his partner''s hands. The cube was something that Earth''s tech could not uncover. Z.A.I haven''t talked much of the device. Only a warning of its powers.


    Robin sat in his seat, his hands clenching the cube in his hand, an uncomfortable feeling brew in his stomach. The silence amplified his heart beat, nervous sweat covering his back. The coldness of his new suit gave little comfort in the impending storm.


    The Batmobile, took the hidden tunnel toward their Cave. A place called home that gave peace.


    ..


    "Alfred."


    Batman greeted his venerable butler as he got out of his bat-mobile. The dim light of the batcave casting its shadow over his features.


    "Welcome back, sir," Alfred greeted with a bow, "I presume that your want to open your gift early for this christmas."


    "It might be halloween tonight, Alfred," Robin commented.


    "You seem to like your gift, Master Dick," Alfred commented as he looked at Robin''s new suit.


    He like the new suit very well. Now he doesn''t have to worry that his grandson being mistaken as a clown who escaped from a circus. He was thankful for Zion''s gift. His one was impeccable and suited him very well.


    "Take this to analyze," Batman stated as he handed the Mother Box to Alfred.


    Alfred looked at the presumably a metal cube and took it. He would get his answer after he put it on an Analyzer.


    "Let me lead you to your gifts," Alfred said and led the two to their prep-table, where the preparation are made.


    The duo followed Alfred''s lead, their footsteps echoing softly against the cool stone floor of the Batcave as they entered the preparation room The air crackled with an electric tension, each corner of the expansive chamber filled with an array of gadgets and tools meticulously organized for their nocturnal endeavors.


    "Here sir," Alfred pointed at the suitcase kept on the table.


    The travelling suitcase looked to be normal on the outside, but it had crimson bat symbol on the top next to a neon blue ''N''. Robin waited in anticipation as he watch Batman move to open the case.


    Robin had received his new suit in a similar case, but a bit smaller. He had felt like a kid on christmas when he saw what was inside, so he couldn''t contain the excitement to see Batman''s.


    Batman opened the case and noticed the crimson red outlining a bat. The pitch back suit was folded neatly inside the case, the foam keeping it in place. The had many hair-thin likes running around and connecting back. The fabric was this and elastic, resilient to many attacks


    Batman traced his fingers on the suit, his could tell that this as more advanced than his Bat-Armor. This suit was made with cutting-edged tech. He then moved his attention to the cowl, one similar to him, but it cowered his mouth.


    Batman lifted the cowl to his gaze, meeting its eyes.


    A mechanism triggered as Batman lifted the cowl. A folded slip ejected from the side. Batman pulled the slip and noticed that it was the instruction on how to wear the suit. The suit didn''t come with much attachments.


    The suit only had two components. A spandex that would cover the whole body and a cowl. If he wanted attachments such as his utility belt, he could use his own. He could also move his armor plates to add to it,


    Unlike Robin''s suit, Zion had left much of it for him to work with.


    "Robin," Batman turned to his partner, "I want you to stay in Gotham."


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "Why?" Robin questioned, exasperated, that he would be left out on an important mission.


    "Gotham need its protector, while I am away, you need to keep Gotham safe," Batman answered in his tone of finality. Gotham couldn''t be left unprotected.


    Robin couldn''t say anything more; there was no argument. With the prospect of a massive takedown and complete radio silence, the criminals would have their Christmas in Gotham without Batman. The city would descend into chaos, and there would be no one to stop them.


    "Master Dick, I think it is wise for you to remain in Gotham," Alfred commented, "Detective Gordon contacted me. The police have regained radio communication and are currently evacuating civilians to safer locations. In Gotham''s situation, law enforcement is conducting active patrols on the streets, Trying to stop any impulsive criminal. They are also being informed about any potential criminal activity, even in the notorious crime alley."


    Batman turned to Alfred, a question raising in his mind. Have they regained communication?


    ["I am Here!!"] Z.A.I''s voice echoed in the batcave, answering his question.


    ["I have taken control of the police department across the world and am communicating with the needed vigilantes to maintain peace"]


    ["When you are taking over, you need to make a good impression to the people"]


    The Batcave went silent at the answer. Z.A.I was managing the total communication between the police and other needed departments. The night was busy. He didn''t need to worry about big criminals as they are just watching from the shadows, while it is the petty and stupid ones that are trouble.


    "Why are you doing this?" Robin questioned.


    ["I want to chill. I can''t chill when the Government can''t even clean its mess.]


    ["And wear the suit, Batman, I don''t like to repeat myself"]


    "Well, I don''t have to worry about you getting shot in the mouth," Alfred commented from the side, his eyes gazing at the new cowl.


    Batman removed his cowl and rested it on the table. It was time for him to suit up. Even though he had suspicions about wearing the suit, now was not the time to worry.


    He had an invasion to fight while Robin covered gotham.


    Batman removed his grey suit and quickly changed to the new black spandex. The suit covered him up to his neck, and stuck to his skin, his feet and palm had a thick padding to them. His defined muscles made of head work showed themselves.


    Batman then proceeded to removed the utility belt and writs plates from his old suit and attached them to the new suit, which integrated them easily. He then removed his iconic cowl and attached them to his shoulders. His chest adorned in read Bat outline gleaned in the dark.


    He wore his cowl last, the elastic cowl fitted his face perfectly. The eyes shown red before the whole suit activated. The hair-thin red line light upped, and the suit expanded and contracted, adjusting to Batman''s anatomy and the cowl connected to the neck.


    [ Integration successful ]


    [ Welcome Batman ]


    [ Would you like a run down of the functions available? ]


    A bionic feminine voice asked Batman. Batman''s eyes scanned the interface, noting the active map on the corner of his vision and other battle function and diagnostics of the suit running on his right.


    His eyes moved around the Batcave, a red tint to his vision. The interface interacted with each object of his gaze and projected its functions.


    Batman lifted his hand and clenched them tight, feeling a bursting power in them. His strength has increased.


    [ "Like it? (£þ¦á£þ)" ]


    [ "It''s the suit''s strength enhancer" ]


    [ "But now is not the time to adore my creation" ]


    [ "Time is running" ]


    Batman didn''t reply and moved out of the room. Robin was waiting for him near the Batcomputer.


    "I will leave Gotham in you care," Batman stated before rushing to his Bat-plane.


    He pressed the buttons with practice ease and flew the plane out of the Batcave. Robin watched as his Mentor fly away before turning to the batcomputer. It was going to be long night for both of them.


    ...


    Batman looked at the rising sky scrappers of Metropolis.


    The tall building extended to reach the sky, dark clouds drifting past them. It was his destination. He flew that Bat-Plane in dark, taking it towards the docks, gliding above the sea. The sound of waves gave a calming feeling to the unrest mind.


    The Bat-plane landed near the docks. hidden among the many containers.


    The place was deserted with the only companionship of cold wind and distant sirens. The flash of red and Blue were frequent, the cops patrolling the streets to keep the city safe. The radio silence from the government, and the order from unknown. The cops followed to keep the city safe while the world was darkened.


    Batman disembarked from the Bat-plane, his eyes scanning the darkness. He checked the map on the corner, he was here at his destination.


    "Batman," A ghastly voice called form the midst of darkness.


    Batman turned, a batarang in hand. His eyes met the caller.


    Two green orbs of deadly green, containing the cries of many souls. The eye moved forward, removing itself from the shadows and walked into the dim light. The Giant of a being, covered in spiky armor of ghastly green and a giant sword on his back. His face a metal skull, its teeth sharp with eyes that bore into ones soul.


    The sight would make a grown man cry, in terror.


    But Batman had seem many, he had fought many. The flying man bats to giantinc crocodile in sewers.


    Batman narrowed his eyes and watched. He already noticed the cube on Metallo''s grip. He understood as to why Z.A.I had brought him here but he had yet to identify the opponent as a foe or ally.


    "Here," Metallo threw the cube to batman, unceremoniously.


    Batman caught the cube easily, and scrutinized the Death Knight. His interface reveal not much information except for the green outline surrounding it. The interface though of him as ally.


    "My work here is done," Metallo stated as he turned to leave.


    [ "Why leave yet? The fire works are about to begin." ]


    Z.A.I''s words prompted the men to look to the sky.


    The night sky speckled with innumerable stars twinkling like diamonds strewn across dark velvet. As the darkness deepened, the first streak of light sliced through the sky like a blazing arrow. It was the beginning of a meteor shower¡ª a celestial spectacle that displayed the wonders of the universe.


    With each passing moment, more meteors appeared, painting bright trails across the heavens in a mesmerizing display of cosmic beauty.


    Batman watched in awe as the meteors danced across the sky, their fiery tails tracing graceful arcs against the backdrop of stars. Some blazed with intense brightness, while others glowed with a softer, more ethereal light. Together, they formed a symphony of light and motion, painting the night sky with their celestial brushstrokes.


    The shimmering light filled the night sky, casting its divine glow, mesmerizing the viewers with its beauty. But the beauty turned to horror as the streak of lights increased, covering the night sky in their light.

 49 - Infiltration

    I rewrote the chapter after a comment, I will leave the draft at the end.


    *****


    Z.A.I''s words echoed in the heads of the heroes.


    The heroes didn''t understand the meaning of these words; even Martian Manhunter was left confused. But they knew that the fight was not over. They turned to their foe, and Manhunter commanded the troops to infiltrate.


    They scrutinized Morph as he laid unconscious, the cavity in his chest filling back. His body shook, and it was just the start. Morph''s body twisted and turned as if he was having a seizure. After a minute of shaking, Morph''s body went completely still.


    "I don''t have a good feeling about this," Green Lantern commented, the horror movies he had watched flashing in his mind.


    "I will restrain him," Wonder Woman stated and pulled her lasso to restrain Morph.


    Suddenly,


    Wonder Woman froze, an icy shiver creeping up her spine, accompanied by the prickling touch of perspiration. Amidst the eerie stillness, a faint chuckle danced on the breeze, sending a chill down her already trembling frame.


    Morph''s body stood back up like a vampire and bent forward. The laughter turning from a chuckle to maniacal one. Morph shivered with uncontrollable laughter, his hands covering his face. His white Martian skin shriveled up, cracks expanding around his body.


    The Martian body twisted and turned as its anatomy slowly changed, accompanied by a creepy bone-cracking sound, his back expanding, cracks running along it like a dried river. The skin changed, and the cracks colored with a heated glow. The air around him twisted from the heat emanating, and his skin took on a burnt color.


    Then the whole body exploded in flames accompanied by hysterical laughter.


    The heroes reeled back in fear; the scene invoked primal fear. They felt their minds in chaos as nightmare fuel churned. The flaming body moved with laughter, as if it had heard the funniest joke, but his hands dug into his skin from which flames burst forth. The fingers ran their course, digging through the charred skin.


    Morph''s laughter stopped abruptly, his hand extended out and his nightmarish face looking to the sky. He gave the feeling that he was experiencing the world for the first time.


    Superman, Wonder Woman, and Green Lantern tensed, ready to fight. Suddenly, they felt a force pull them back. It was Martian Manhunter, pulling them back with his telekinesis. He looked to be in agony, his face scrunched up.


    "He is dangerous," Martian muttered through his gritted teeth.


    *BOOM*


    The trio turned, only to see a flaming pillar rise to the skies from where Morph had stood. They felt it twist and turn, not in their vision but in their minds, and they screamed. Manhunter bit himself to keep moving and pulled the others back with him.


    The trio couldn''t notice, but those flames were not just flames. They were made of psionic force filled with negative emotions: sorrow, hatred, anger, and all negative emotions filled to the brim. The sight of the flames brought chaos to their psyche.


    "Leaving already?" A chilling voice spoke in their minds, shattering their psychic defenses.


    *Boom*


    An explosion of psionic energy pushed the flaming tornado away, revealing the transformed BOSS.


    "''The fun had just begun,''" The final BOSS spoke in their minds, his overcoat fluttering in the winds of flame.


    The nightmarish creature had vanished, replaced by a flaming skeleton wearing a cowboy outfit with chains made of flame wrapped around him. The skeleton tipped his hat at the trio and met their gaze. {Cowboy Ghost Rider}


    The trio looked at the empty sockets that were his eyes, and the flame covering his whole skull. The creature spoke fear, and its undead appearance just added to the horror.


    "What in the Hades is that?"


    "Is that a flaming skeleton in a cowboy outfit?"


    "''I am NioZ, nice to meet you, heroes of Earth,''" he spoke with politeness. "''You can''t leave now.''"


    NoiZ lifted his hand and clenched his fists as if he were grabbing something in the air and yanked it. At the same time, the quartet felt a force lock them in and drag them through the air toward NoiZ.


    Using the counterforce, NoiZ pulled himself toward them. NoiZ pulled back his arms and punched. His fist exploded with flames and psionic energy mixed. The four, unable to avoid the explosive punch, were sent flying in different directions.


    NoiZ freed the chains of flame. He swiftly moved his arm and wrist in a snapping motion, flicking the chains toward Wonder Woman. The chains wrapped around Wonder Woman before he pulled her to him and him to her.


    Wonder Woman bounded, flying towards him, her eyes locked in with his. She felt like the skeleton was smiling before a fist wrapped in burning chains collided with her face. Wonder Woman felt the full force of the collision move through her body, causing a concussion.


    *BAM*


    Wonder Woman flew back like a rocket.


    The chains tightening, prompting NoiZ to flick his wrists, sending a wave through the chains. Wonder Woman was lifted in the air, and for a moment, her body moved fast toward the ground.


    *BOOM*


    NoiZ jumped with an explosion; he arrived next to the flying Martians, his overcoat extended like wings. He grasped Manhunter''s head and breathed the flames of chaos onto him. Manhunter withered in flames, as chaos and pain dominated his mind.


    NoiZ performed a somersault and kicked Martian toward the ground.


    *BOOM*


    Before Martian could land, NoiZ was already on Green Lantern. He hopped from TK platform to platform before swinging the chains at Green Lantern and pulling them closer before delivering an axe kick on Green Lantern. NoiZ watched the green shield turn to dust as Green Lantern fell to the ground.


    And there was only one opponent left.


    The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Superman, who was still on a collision course somewhere. NoiZ turned to scan the surroundings, only to notice that Superman wasn''t near.


    He had punched the guy a bit too hard, knocking him out first as he was the first to meet the fist. But NoiZ didn''t know that. He squinted his eyes as he scanned further.


    "Did I punch too hard?"


    ...


    The Martians received the order to infiltrate from M''hontrr J''onn I''onzz.


    The invisible bio-ships landed inside the city, dropping six troops made out of 20 Martians each. The troops then swept through the city in a practiced manner, fast enough to cross short distances between them and the tower yet slow enough that they wouldn''t be flanked by enemies.


    A single team separated from the troop and approached the giant gothic gate that stood tall and intimidating. They confirmed that it was safe and pushed the door. The troop struggled to push open the door; although they managed to open just enough for their weapons to pass through. The Martians then entered easily with their shape-shifting.


    The Martians quickly picked up their weapons and looked alert. They were ready to be swarmed by the enemies or the security system. But nothing happened; all they met was an empty corridor with a slight electric buzz in the backdrop.


    The Martian at the back gave the signal that the place was clear, and the Martians rushed in, leaving a single troop behind to keep the gate guarded.


    The hundred Martians moved with alert steps, at every step of the way. They didn''t believe that their enemy would leave his home unguarded when he had millions of Mechmorphs around the city.


    Maybe it was his defense, his belief that no one could cross the black land.


    But they didn''t have time to ponder all possibilities.


    They arrived at a cross-section, a spiraling staircase, but this time there were two, one leading up the tower and the other leading down. The leading Martian pondered for a moment before he instructed a troop to take the stairs down.


    "Squad R''o, take the stairs down and see if you could find anything useful," he instructed before turning to the rest. "We go up."


    The troops divided and took their paths. The Martians didn''t have time to admire the architecture. Squad R''o took the staircase down until they reached a corridor that went in both directions.


    One of the seniors of the squad commanded the troop to divide into two but instructed them not to further divide down the path. The troop divided into two teams, and each moved in different directions. Team 2 arrived at the end of the path and came to a stair that led even further down.


    The team leader informed the other team before they moved to explore down. The stairs didn''t lead them to another corridor but a door. The crystalline door reflected their images, making them nervous.


    They observed the control board that required a palm scan. The leader then shape-shifted; his height shrunk, his hair and eyes changed color, and his skin took on a chestnut hue. He looked exactly like Zion, like a perfect clone.


    The troop had received all the info extracted by the king when he scanned Zion''s mind, everything the guy knew of him and things he actually wouldn''t notice. They contained much of Zion''s info, from his blood type to his fingerprints.


    The Martian kept his hand on the panel and waited. A white light scanned his palm, and with a light buzz, the door opened to reveal the interior. The space was circular and empty except for the cells that glowed with faint blue light.


    The Martians walked in and noticed that three cells had occupants. In the first two, crisp Martians were kept in a green light that kept scanning their bodies, and a panel floated next to them showing their vitals.


    The third one was filled with a slight red glow, and bathing in it was Kara, unfrozen from her binding spell. Zion had unbound her after he locked her in a cell made to keep Kryptonians. The Martians locked eyes with Kara. Kara just looked at them as she sat on a block of crystal.


    The team leader ignored Kara and moved to check the burned Martians. He saw the panel again and pressed his hand. The force field released, and the Martians moved to check the conditions.


    "I advise not to remove them from the stasis pod," Kara advised while she locked eyes with the team leader who still looked like Zion. "That is if you want them alive."


    Kara didn''t need to guess to know it was a Martian. She knew Zion; he always gave her a slightly weird feeling when he was around. This was the reason she didn''t trust Zion. That weird feeling always kept her alert.


    And the Martian gave none.


    The Martian stopped in their tracks and backed up. The team leader walked to Kara. His eyes locked in with hers. He could tell her mind was shielded, but not a telepath.


    "What do you know about the pod?" He demanded an answer.


    Kara just kept her eyes locked with the Martian; she was not intimidated by the guy. The form Zion took, the hydra, was stronger and more frightening. This guy was a child acting intimidating compared to that.


    "Answer me," the Martian repeated.


    Kara sighed and decided to humor the guy. "The pod is keeping them stable; if you remove them, they will die."


    The Martian looked suspicious of the information, but he couldn''t find any falsehood in Kara''s eyes. While the team leader was talking to Kara, the second in command relayed the finding to the rest of the team, and a message came back immediately.


    The team leader received the relay and looked at Kara. "Are you Kara Zor-El?" he asked.


    "I am," Kara answered.


    "You are the cousin of Superman?"


    "Yes."


    "I have been ordered to release you," The Martian pressed his hand on the panel that locked Kara. "Superman with Our M''hontrr and his friend are engaging the target outside now."


    That was what he was told to do, and he did.


    Kara got up as the force field died and the red glow stopped. She walked up to the Martian. "Are your other teams trying to take control of the tower?"


    "Yes," He answered.


    "Don''t try," Kara stated before walking past him, but she wasn''t done. "The whole city is made of Kryptonian tech; you can''t even scratch it with your powers.


    You need the one with the highest authority to open the control room."


    ...


    {This is my draft}


    The heroes watched in confusion; they didn''t understand Z.A.I''s words. They didn''t know what was happening.


    But they didn''t need to search much as they saw Zion''s body shrivel up. His white skin cracked like dry land. The cracks extended around his body, covering it in cracks. From the cracks came an orange glow before the body exploded with flame, covering it.


    The Martian reeled in horror at the sight, images that frightened him to the core flashed through his mind. He knew of the fear of fire in Martians, but he felt that fear was taking shape and coming to life.


    Superman didn''t know what was happening, but he felt like things just got a bit more complicated.


    Wonder Woman could sense the terror and horror, the one from hell that bathes in suffering in others and flames of suffering.


    Green Lantern''s ring flashed with a blinking light.


    The flame covering Morph''s body rose to the sky, a tornado formed from flame and psionic energy. The psionic chaos caused the telepaths to shriek in pain. Even Martian Manhunter wasn''t an exception.


    The others felt their brains turn to mush.


    Superman and Wonder Woman fell to the ground clutching their heads. Green Lantern turned into a streak of light and escaped.


    The psychic tornado burst from the ground and vanished, and in the middle stood a Martian covered in flames, his skin resembling volcanic land with rivers of lava flowing through his skin. His mere presence was felt by the Martians across the planet. No one could overlook the psionic field covering the whole planet.


    Morph or something more stood up, his voice disgruntled. "That punch hurt."


    He turned and looked around. His transformation began when Superman punched him. Morph turned and looked at his opponents. He looked confused for a minute about their conditions, and it took a moment to realize what happened.


    He scratched his cheeks in fluster. He should have known that these guys are the weakened version of the Silver Age heroes. These guys are still inexperienced in fighting cosmic threats. And a burning Martian could take out them at their best.


    "Should have expected something like this?" NioZ said as he waved his hand, fixing the damage he did but keeping them unconscious. "Maybe I shouldn''t have been so dramatic."


    Zion knew that he shouldn''t have gone for that cool entry; now his opponents are out of order. Wasn''t thinking much.


    ["Man, That build-up went to waste"]


    Z.A.I appeared as a projection. He looked like Zion


    Z.A.I appeared as a projection. He looked like Zion but he was ethereal.


    "I know, that psionic mixed with the tornado was a bit overboard," NoiZ admitted.


    ["You should have just gone with the flames"]


    "C''mon, we are fighting with psychics. I want it to be a menace," NoiZ replied.


    ["Whatever"]


    ["You don''t have much time left for fun"]


    "Okay," NoiZ said in a deflated tone.


    He moved his hand, pulling the six bio-ships hidden toward him. He knew of their existence the minute they crossed the dark planes. He was just letting them have some fun. He was supposed to be defeated here, and the Martian prince hidden among them would bring victory to the Martians.


    But the people who were supposed to defeat him got knocked out.


    "What a waste!! Do you guys have any idea how many plans I had for my defeat?" NoiZ grumbled. "I hope the latter half could still function."


    NoiZ invaded the minds of the Martians and fixed the damages he did. He then dragged them out of the ships in troops. He felt like he was playing a simulation as he set them in position before he snapped his fingers.

 50 - Twist

    J''emm J''axx watched as Kara left. He could only watch from the side as he was here without authorization.. He had joined the assault team in disguise. He really wanted to take part in this fight; he should be fighting to free his people.


    "We will come back later to get the M''hontrrs," the team leader ordered. "Join back with the other."


    J''emm followed the rest out of the prison and joined back with the other team before moving up the stairs, returning to the main corridor. The team leader contacted the other troops and learned that they were at the top.


    The troops moved fast and reached the top since there was no danger, as per troop A''s exploration. They came face to face with another door. This door had many intricate carvings on it.


    "What happened?" the team leader questioned.


    "The door is locked," the one leading the rest answered.


    "Did you try to go through it?" the team leader of R''o asked.


    Instead of answering, the man density-shifted his hand, which would normally allow them to phase through objects. But the minute he touched it, an electric snake jumped from the wall, giving him a shock. The man shook his hand to remove the numbness.


    "It seems the Female was right," Team 2''s leader answered.


    "Who?"


    "The female named Kara. She informed us that we couldn''t open the control room without the authorization of the highest authority."


    "We need to capture him then."


    "Did you try in his form?" Team 2''s leader asked.


    "No, but let''s give it a try."


    The Martian then morphed into Zion and touched the wall, "Open," he commanded.


    ["Really?!"]


    ["Aren''t you guys dumb!"]


    The door lit up in neon light, and the space was brightened to the limit, stunning everyone. J''emm closed his eyes to avoid the flashbang while using his TK to scan the surroundings. It was then he noticed that he was the only one left. He abruptly opened his eyes in shock to search for others and tried to communicate with them through the link.


    But nothing, it was all he got. He looked around and noticed the familiar cubes lying on the floor and blasters protruding from the wall. Another light flashed, and a being constructed itself out of light. He looked like Zion, and he looked straight at J''emm.


    ["Not the most intelligent move,"] Z.A.I stated, picking up the cube next to him. He looked closely at it, twisting and turning it, observing carefully.


    ["We have much to discuss, Prince J''emm J''axx."]


    He turned to the G''arrunn wearing armor, its eyes opening wide. J''emm didn''t know how his disguise was seen through. He perfectly blended in with the other Martians.


    ["You''re still green, aren''t you?"]


    ["The General and the Commander knew it was you the minute you walked in."]


    ["How I knew you were J''emm? That''s a secret."] He answered J''emm thoughts.


    ["Now, come in."]


    ["We have much to discuss."]


    "Why should I follow you? You already betrayed us," J''emm shouted, his blasters pointing at Z.A.I.


    ["Dude"]


    *buzzzz*


    All the blasters on the wall locked onto J''emm. The slight buzz they gave off showed that they would fire at him, at a thought of pulling the trigger.


    ["J''emm, I am trying to be civil."]


    "What do you want?" J''emm questioned, his blasters still pointing.


    Z.A.I was baffled, but he also understood. J''emm was just a teenager, and he also had the impulsivity disorder of all teenagers.


    ["If you listen, war will end."]


    "Why should I trust you?" J''emm questioned.


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ["Listen here, kid."]


    ["I have a civilization of Mechmorphs, and I outnumber and outgun you in every way."]


    ["I could enslave your whole species in a day."]


    ["So stop wasting my time."]


    Z.A.I was done dealing with idiots.


    ["Now, you follow me."]


    Z.A.I waved his hand, and the door to the control room opened. Z.A.I walked in leisurely, not caring about the blaster pointed at his back. J''emm followed with guarded steps, ready to density shift to phase through the energy blaster and take control of the room.


    ["Don''t try,"] Z.A.I stated.


    He then waved his hand and pulled up the image of M''arzz in its entirety. The projection showed the location of the capital city, Ma''aleca''andra, and the remaining city. These cities were marked in green, covering less than 15% of the planet. The rest was lit up in gold, the territory of Mechmorphs.


    ["I have control of the whole planet."]


    ["If I wanted, I could make your species go extinct."]


    ["I hope you don''t want that."]


    J''emm watched the map in trepidation. This was the first time he saw the extent of Zion''s reach on M''arzz. He could tell that they were fighting a losing battle, but he never believed that they were facing an insurmountable wall.


    "What do you want?" J''emm asked, learning he had no way out of this.


    ["I want you to become King, J''emm J''axx."]


    "So, you could control me?" J''emm scoffed.


    ["You are of no consequence, if I wanted control that is."]


    ["You already know that."]


    Z.A.I flashed the image of M''arzz before J''emm.


    "Then why?" J''emm asked.


    ["You are a good kid, J''emm J''axx."]


    ["You look toward the future and not the past."]


    ["You have the character to become King."]


    ["But you are still young."]


    ["So, I want you to be my proxy."]


    "Proxy?" J''emm didn''t understand.


    ["Yes."]


    ["You will be working for me as you take on responsibilities."]


    ["You will lead your people out of oppression and bring them here."]


    ["A land flowing with milk and honey."]


    ["You will be the King of this new land."]


    "Why me?" J''emm asked.


    ["You know your father will never allow your marriage with S''yraa."]


    ["And the oppressed A''shenn will rebel sooner or later."]


    ["But you could change that if you become king."]


    ["So what do you say?"]


    "You will not control my people?" J''emm asked.


    ["Nope."]


    "Will they live freely?"


    ["Yes."]


    ["I will also allow you guys to use some of my tech."]


    ["I have taken over Earth."]


    ["Soon, you guys could even travel there."]


    J''emm thought for a moment, and arrived at his answer. He wanted for his people to be at peace, instead of die fighting.


    "Okay," J''emm agreed. "As long as you don''t go back on your word."


    ["That took a lot of convincing."]


    "What do I do now?" J''emm asked. "Should I just go ask my people to come? That wouldn''t work at all."


    ["I know."]


    ["But I''ve got just the plan."]


    ...


    Zion, after searching for a few minutes, found Superman about five miles away. He then dragged him back to where the others were and piled them up together. They were all lying on the ground. Now that he had knocked out most of the trouble, he had to deal with the last one.


    NoiZ turned to the sky.


    "Good to see you, Kara," he stated.


    Kara looked at the pile of heroes and then to Zion. She knew she couldn''t defeat Zion in a battle of strength. He was intelligent enough to counter all her moves, and with this new form with which he defeated Superman, she had no chance.


    And she recognized it.


    "Why are you doing this, Zion?" she asked.


    NoiZ nodded with a bit of pride, "Finally not choosing the punching option. You have grown well."


    "Answer me, Zion! Why are you doing this?" she asked again.


    "For peace," NoiZ answered.


    "For peace? You call this bringing peace."


    "It was necessary. Those who don''t know chaos will not appreciate peace."


    "So you brought war to a civilization, to people who were just minding their business."


    "They were not at peace, Kara. They were living in an illusion of it. True peace is only achieved when no one is oppressed. A''ashenn were condemned here, they were not treated right. They would have rebelled, and the straws they grasp in their desperation will not only bring an end to them but also to Earth."


    *beep beep*


    The omnitrix on Noiz''s shoulder beeped. He was going to time out.


    "You could have chosen to explain," Kara stated, not moving.


    "No one would have believed."


    "We would have, Kal-El would have."


    NoiZ de-transformed, returning to Zion with his suit.


    "He would have stopped me," Zion replied.


    "Because you were wrong." Kara decided not to attack.


    "Am I, Kara? You understand it more than Kal-El. You have seen the worst of humanity. The humans are stuck in their ways."


    "But they can be better, you have seen better."


    "Yes, I have seen both of it. I know people can be good. That''s why change needs to be brought, and I will make the world better, stronger, and more prepared."


    "You don''t need to do this, Zion."


    "I have to, it is my mission after all." Zion smiled. "The world will be better when you wake up."


    "Zion-"


    Kara couldn''t finish her sentence as she froze in the air. Zion pulled out the device he was hiding. {I will add the image later} This was the device he had asked Z.A.I to make. This was a device made with chronosapien Bio-Matrix data. It functioned similarly to a watch and showed time. It showed the exact time of the universe and space-time coordinates, but that wasn''t all its functions. It could control time for a short period, like moving forward or backward, slow or speeding up, and freezing time.


    It''s called a Quantum Tempus. [Yes, I did add Quantum to make it cool] Now, Kara was frozen in a temporal bubble. She would be like this for a day or so, but it was more than enough for his plans. Now to deal with the heroes, he needed them. The humans needed their saviors.


    "Z.A.I, is everything ready?" Zion asked.


    ["Yup."]


    "Time to leave, then," Zion spoke, and the ground rippled as many Mechmorphs rose from the ground.


    They were in millions, and each was armed with a dehydration gun. They were his army; they would help him win the war without much trouble. The forces of the dark god would have to meet their defeat today at his hands.


    Today, he would conquer Earth.


    Today, he would kill a god.


    Today, he would bring change.


    "Let''s Rock!!!" Zion shouted as his helmet formed around his head, and the space glitched around the field. The millions of Mechmorphs were teleported out of Mars. Their course was set towards Earth. Zion''s suit created a force-field enough to combat the vacuum of space and provide him with life support.


    The millions of Mechmorphs traveled through space like streaking comets with tails on their backs.


    And the show had just begun.

 51 - Dark god

    The meteor shower covered Earth in its mesmerizing light, casting divine glow on the cities below.


    This event was like a millennium event. The sheer visual effect was going awe invoking.


    But the horrors of this event revealed itself when the hundreds of thousands meteors changed their trajectory and plummeted down to earth. The meteor shower turned into an apocalyptic event in a matter of seconds. The glowing meteors covered in inferno was very attractive to say the least.


    The people who gaze upon it felt their life flash by, and were awe struck. Then came the panic, they ran around, exiting their houses to take shelter. Families cuddled together, people revealed their secrets thinking they are all going to die. A homeless guy broke into food store to have his final meal.


    People ran around like headless chickens trying to keep the death away while some just accepted and made peace. These guys also completely ignored the message that they would be safe by staying inside their home.


    Well, human are the not most intelligent of group when panicked, they loose their reasoning and braincells.


    The cities glowed as multitudes of meteors landed on the streets, perfectly avoiding the buildings. The shockwave spread from the collision knocking out those that were running around off their feet. The cars buzzed and beeped, filling the whole city in noise.


    The people who were running around scattered like birds and rushed back into the buildings to take cover, while some with intelligence ran to subways and hid themselves safely. The police rushed to their nearby impact area and moved to check the meteor.


    The meteor was glowing gold, covered in a minor forcefield that that took the brunt of the collision. The meteor them revealed itself to be a black oval object covered in circuitry lines. The police pulled out their gun, ready to shoot whatever that might pop out of the spaceship looking thing. But nothing happened like that, instead the whole ship dissolved into a goo before it morphed into a humanoid with hands for blaster.


    The mechmorph stood up and scanned the officer who was pointing his gun. He didn''t move nor attack, he was waiting for his orders. He just turn to the sky, looking at his sibling descend. The same was happening in many countries and cities. The Mechmorphs just stood in their place while the police were alert but they didn''t know what to do.


    The communication between government was null and under Z.A.I''s control. Much of military force was moving only under the command of their officer with highest authority, but their efficiency was near zero.


    So, Z.A.I took controls of the command, keeping these military personals from where his army had gathered.


    ["Do not attack them"]


    ["People, you do not need to worry"]


    ["They will not harm you"]


    ["Don''t try to kidnap them."]


    Z.A.I''s voice echoes around the world, informing everyone not to attack the mechmorphs. The military officers and police were still on guards. The mechmoprhs just stood still and wouldn''t attack unless them deem it danger.


    The people who were running around finally calmed down and moved back to their homes for shelter. This was only a small portion of the people who were intelligent enough to understand something. So, the rest stayed on the streets.


    But these people were of no consequence as Batman was watching a meteor shine brighter and bright. It took him a moment to realize that it was coming towards him. Fun Fact, if a bright light on the sky doesn''t moved and keeps getting bigger, its coming at you.


    Batman rushed away from where he stood and watched at the meteor impact. He kept himself standing against the shockwave and looked at the impact crater. In its middle stood a man in his classy suit that outlined in gold. His adjusted his suit and walked to them, his visor displaying a smile.


    "Metallo, you have done your job well," Nion spoke as he looked at the death knight who stood unmoving. "You can take your leave or join the fun." [^_^]


    Nion then turned to Batman, "The Mother Box." He extended his hand.


    Batman looked at his gloved hands and gave the Metallo''s cube. Nion took the cube and didn''t talk about the other cube, Batman would understand in due time. Nion then took a rod and stabbed the cube on it. This was a transfer stick which contained Z.A.I''s code, with this he would be connected to the mother box and take over the system.


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    ["I have disabled the Booming"]


    ["But it will take time for me to take full control"]


    ["It will take time to court the mother box"]


    "Do what you want, Z.A.I." Nion didn''t comment on Z.A.I finding himself a girl.{We will have Z.A.I''s love story with mother box later. Maybe}


    "Now that the mother boxes are disabled, I think its time for me to explain it to you," Nion turned to Batman, someone who might just understand. "These are mother box, they are sentient supercomputer that could access the multiverse and are used by New gods, overpowered aliens, to travel and conquer.


    Understood?"


    Batman brought his mother box and looked at it. The intricate symbols adorning it showed it otherworldly origin. "So, the invasion is over?"


    "No," Zion stated and turned to the sky, "Z.A.I is unable to take full control just yet. He was only able to disrupt the mother boxes in our hand and only for the time being."


    A tear rippled on the sky, a booming sound accompanying it. Form the portal came an army of demons like the one Batman confronted. They looked to be hungry and screeched as they flooded out the portal.


    "The war is just beginning," Nion stated as a massive beam collided with the Parademons as they rushed out the Boon tube and turned them to dust. "And it ended."


    "Lets just enjoy the fireworks," Nion stated as he sat on a box nearby.


    ..


    The Mechmorphs around the world got up from their status and aimed their cannon to the sky. The millions of Mechmorphs were charging up their disintegration ray. They had shifted the dehydration for some firepower.


    The people who were observing the Mechmophs became alert, but they held their weapons down. They didn''t know better but the blaster felt dangerous. Then Boom, portals opened and a parade of demons rushed through the portal. but they met the combined fire of the Mechmorphs who were ready. The cannon beam turned the Parademons into dust and didn''t just stop they are they chained to other Parademons as they came in contact.


    The people across the world saw the horrors flood out from the space tear and the Mechmorphs that arrived before finally moved and attack. This relieved them as they person who took control was trying to atleast protect them.


    The Parademons die before they could even take a step as the Mechmorphs covered every direction and kept their defense closed. Zion was creating an army for this reason. He was a peron who like to overgear to fight a BOSS and he was prepared to face Darksied and his armies. This was one of the reasons he took over Mars, he needed his own army to wage war.


    The millions of worlds that fell before, and the billions they have yet to conquer, the parademons never felt this much resistance. The Ashes of the Parademons covered the city in dust and the winds blew them away.


    ...


    Batman watched as the Parademons were disintegrated. He upped Zion''s level of danger to max, but he was also analyzing the demons. He knew that who ever who made them had to have high-level tech. he need to gather more information on these "New Gods".


    "Who are these New God?" Batman asked, he need more information to create his contingency.


    "They originate form a place called the fourth world, which is on a different plane compare to earth. They are being that evolved to have power due to their close proximity to the source, a primeval energy that created everything.


    They each represent different concept, and the one who leads then is Evil. They also have a better counter part but I wouldn''t trust them. These mother boxes are their only way to reach us, without these boxes they will be unable to come to earth."


    "Why do they want to conquer Earth?"


    "To feed their pits and keep their home alive, and moreover, earth is special. Why do you think we have many aliens and supers gathered on this planet? This planet holds too many secrets that are never to be revealed," Zion stated as he watched the Parademons turned to ash.


    "Hmm," Batman silently analyzed the information that he received.


    [Item Acquired] A messaged arrived, causing Zion to smile.


    "Did you call for back up?" Nion asked as he looked to the portal above him.


    Batman looked up and notice the amount of Parademons rushing though the portal halt. The disintegration beam died down with the amount of Parademons. The portal rippled again but this time the one who arrived was not a Parademon but a grey giant wearing armor with omega symbol on his chest.


    Batman figured that this was commanding figure of the invasion and pressed a button on his belt. This sent an alert to all those he assembled. This fight is going to be hell of a one and he was not even close to being prepared.


    Darkside floated about the water, his gaze scanning the Metropolis as he looked for the perpetrator who stopped his army. He knew that he was here as the mother box that was disabled was here.


    Zion looked at the grey giant for a minute before he floated His dress quickly attracting Darksied''s attention. He arrived at the same height as Darksied and stood opposed to him.


    "Are you the one who stopped my army?" He questioned.


    "Yes, I am," Nion confirmed.


    "Who are you? I want to know the name of the one I will kill," Darkside stated as his eyes glowed red.


    "Me? I am death, I am destruction, I am Darkside," Zion imitated in Darksied''s gruff voice. "Name''s Nion, your death, straight up."


    Darksied didn''t talk more and blasted Nion with his Omega beam. The dual lazer, Zig-Zag as it rushed to Nion. Nion just folded his hand and stood as the Omega beam collided with him. The beam collided with his forcefield and Magic. Zion was prepared for everything. He was also prepared to kill the dark god, but he needed an object to be delivered.


    "Flopped," Nion adjusted his suit, "I was really trying to be civil,"


    The portal behind Darkside rippled and walked out ladies in ready tight outfits, one was carrying a Mace, other a bow, and two knives and the third one a whip. Jep, they were Darksied''s furries. They were trained to fight for darksied by granny goddess. {I will kill her later.}


    "Oh, you want to make this unfair?" Zion asked.


    "I will kill you myself," Darksied stated and floated forward.


    "That''s what I like," Zion stated as he got ready to fight evil god.


    *****

 52 - God Killer

    Zion looked at The Mad God, The Evil God, The Dark God, The Sly God, The Gray God, The God of "I Am Too Ugly," The God of Anger Issues, The God of Furries, The God of Backstabbing, The God of "I Can''t Stay Still," and so on.


    The opponents stood still, their exchange yet to begin as Zion had an important question to ask. "So, how do you want to brawl? May I suggest a game of chess?"


    To Zion''s innocent question, Darkseid responded with an Omega Beam. Zion evaded the attack by creating a clone and teleporting away from the resulting explosion. He watched as the purple magicules burst into a shower of fireworks.


    "I take that as a ''No''?" Zion stated as he turned to the dark god.


    "Stop wasting my time, insect," Darkseid responded, his patience running low.


    The only reason he had let Zion waste his time was due to his confidence in conquering this planet and due confidence in Zion''s voice when he issued a challenge. As the ruler of Apokolips , he had no equals who could give him an enjoyable fight. So, he liked it when an ant challenged a god; he liked crushing them. It was his pastime.


    "Okay, okay," Zion stated as he tugged at as much magic as he could before casting his spell, "¨¦?????¨¬??!!!"


    Hundreds of magic circles formed around Darkseid and his furies before a blinding light exploded, sending massive shockwaves that decimated all the buildings around before a magical barrier put a halt to the destruction.


    What stood in the middle of the explosion was a massive ball of inferno. The glowing purple orb expanded while emitting high amounts of heat before it shrunk back and exploded with even more power. The magical barriers around the city fluctuated, straining at the power of the explosion. The sheer amount of magical fluctuations left traces for centuries to come, and the magic users around the world felt the ripples that shook them to their core.


    The explosion extinguished from the middle, and there stood Darkseid, unharmed and alone. His eyes glowed with Omega effect and his disappointment. He was not moved by the insignificant display of power. The nuclear payload of magical energy was insignificant compared to his Omega effect. {This is what Darksieds powers comes from}


    "Is that your greatest power? Insignificant," Darkseid commented as he blasted another Omega Beam at Zion. Zion jumped back and sacrificed his clone to the attack.


    "No, I was just buying myself some time," Zion stated as a comet blitzed past Darkseid and halted next to Zion. The comet was a black metallic orb, and it split itself to reveal what it contained. The item brought a smile to Magik''s lips. Inside that orb was a brass spear tip covered in dried blood, but the energy that was being released from it was uncanny. This was the Spear of Destiny, or the Spearhead of Destiny. The wooden shaft of the old spear was gone, leaving only the powered spearhead.


    Zion pulled the spearhead out of the orb and held it in his hand. He could feel the influence of the spear and its power coursing through him. The power to alter reality was in his hands. He felt like he could do anything now; even the heroes of his world couldn''t stop him. This was the spear that killed the Son of God who came down to cleanse people''s sins. It was his purpose to die on the cross so the sinners could be forgiven for their sins and go to heaven. This is your, and mine, reminder to follow him. Jesus is God.


    He smiled as his magic started to suppress the spear''s dark influence. He had changed form due to countering the dark influence of the spear. Unlike Burning Martian who thrived in negative emotions, Magik''s was mild, and his magicule body would counter the dark force''s control. He would not fall to the dark side.


    He then took out the expandable shaft made of Nth metal that he had prepared and attached it to the spear, completing it. He was in a hurry, if not, he would have made a Radion nuke just for Darksied. But he had to do with the God Killer for now. The shaft extended, forming a full spear, and its magical glow was unmistakable.


    Zion spun the spear in his hand, performing slashes, stabs, thrusts, and counters. The spear fit perfectly in his hands, and he spun it one last time before he stabbed the foot of the spear next to him, solidifying the space around him as another Omega Beam collided and exploded.


    "Getting impatient, are we?" Zion turned to Darkseid, displaying a cocky smile. "Your death will not miss you for this Christmas, Darkside."


    "An insignificant weapon will not save you from your end, from Darkseid!" Darkseid stated as he charged his hands with Omega effect.


    "Stop saying your name, man, it is very cringe," Zion stated as he slashed with the God Killer, sending a wave of cosmic force toward Darkseid. Darkseid staked no more as he flew towards Zion and slapped the cosmic slash with his Omega fists. The forces collided, canceling each other, but Darkseid had two hands as he punched his other in Zion''s direction, churning space and time as it traveled toward his challenger. Zion jumped back while performing another slash, sending another projectile and meeting the Omega force. The collision of energies shook the oceans and churned the tides.


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Zion landed, spear to his back, and taunted, "Is that all you got?" But the taunted was nowhere.


    Zion moved immediately as his senses flared of danger and swung the spear like a bat towards his right, meeting Darkseid''s Omega smash. The two cosmic forces collided with full strength, and the world stood at a standstill. Shockwaves spread, red lightning struck, and the ocean boiled, and the wind raged, an earthquake shook the whole planet. This was no normal fight; this was a fight between cosmic beings, and the planet was of no consequence.


    The resulting explosion of the clash pushed the opponents away from each other. Darkseid flew toward space while Zion dug through the earth before coming to a halt. He gritted his teeth and shook his head to dispel the dark hold and jumped towards Darkseid. Darkseid, halting his flight, flew towards Zion.


    The two cosmic-powered beings collided at the middle, creating another volley of explosions with their moves. The slashes and punches collided, space and time cried. The sheer light effect blinded many. The world shook, and the higher beings turned their gaze to Earth. They had never cared for the backwater planet, but the astronomical cosmic forces were like the sun, very attractive.


    The Wrath of God, Spectre, felt the cosmic forces shift. {and he is going to make this Fanfic go on a month long break}


    "Are you getting tired, Darkseid?" Zion asked as the Spear charged with another eldritch blast and collided with the Omega fists. The opponents recoiled from the exchange and looked at each other. Darkseid moved his hands to the side and noticed the blood drip from a cut which healed quickly. This was his first time in eons that he was harmed, and a mortal had drawn blood.


    "Your bravery is commendable, but this ends now," Darkseid spoke as his powers increased with his Omega effect.


    Darkseid vanished from his place and appeared next to Zion and punched down. Zion, with his cosmic awareness, saw the move coming from a mile away and deflected the punch to the side before he thrust his spear into Darkseid''s shoulder. The spear dug through and sent a jolt of pain through Darkseid.


    Darkseid, enraged, swung his fist out, slapping Zion away from him like a cannonball. Zion summersaulted a few times before he landed on his feet. He then immediately spun the spear to create a shield around him to block the Overcharged Omega beam. Darkseid looked at Zion, enraged, with his eyes glowing red as the Omega effect leaked and attacked everything around him. The destructive force tore through space and created many cracks. The rubble around him turned to dust and the winds cried.


    Zion looked at Darkseid undeterred. He had seen SoulBound''s fights with scarier beings than this god of Darkness, and he also had another trick up his sleeve if he were to be ever defeated. The trick was dangerous, of course, and would put some cosmic beings on his tail.


    But who cares about that? Darkseid was coming!


    Zion dodged to the side and slashed the Omega beam away and sent an eldritch blast at Darkseid. Darkseid, taking a running start, slapped the eldritch blast away and slammed the ground, sending a shockwave towards Zion. Zion slammed the spear to the ground, sending a counterforce and nullifying the shockwave. Darkseid, using the moment to cover the distance, punched Zion. Zion leaned back unnaturally with the support of the spear, avoiding the fist by a hairs breath, but his suit was torn by the Omega effect.


    Zion rolled back and looked at his torn tuxedo, and he couldn''t look more devastated. He commanded the cosmic force and mended his torn tuxedo. He only felt relieved after the suit was mended. He then tapped the side of the helmet, making it retract back into his suit, revealing his dark purple skin and his flowing purple hair.


    "You have done it, Darkseid," Zion commented as he started running. Zion drew more power from the spear, but the corruptive force also increased. Zion vanished and appeared at a distance away, avoiding the Omega beam before vanishing from reality. Zion was hopping back and forth through the planes, hiding from Darkseid''s cosmic awareness as he appeared above him and heavily slammed the spear on Darkseid.


    Darkseid, a master tactician and combat expert, moved in nick of time as he crossed his arms coated with Omega effect to block the attack. The forces ate each other, creating a crater as it pushed Darkseid down. Darkseid and Zion locked eyes as their forces battled it out for supremacy.


    "You will lose yourself in this fight, Mortal," Darkseid stated as he could tell Zion''s condition was deteriorating. The moment the God Killer appeared, Darkseid already noted its corruptive nature. He could tell the weapon was strong, so was its Dark nature. He wanted a fight, and he knew he would win in the end when the dark force took over his opponent.


    "Sorry to disappoint then," Zion replied.


    The forced collision resulted in an explosion, pushing both the opponents back. Zion stabbed the spear into the ground to slow his momentum and looked at Darkseid who halted after creating a crevasse of 100 meters. The opponents were not yet out of the fight. Zion stood up, slamming the spear heel on the ground, sending a small shockwave of his own.


    Darkseid cracked his neck as he started running, which turned into a full-blown sprint. Zion followed Darkseid and sprinted. The opponents met again at the center. Darkseid took a wide swing, and Zion jumped up using Darksied''s arm and slashed at Darkseid''s neck. But Darkseid expecting the attack and caught the Spear with his hand, which drew blood as it dug into his had.


    Now Zion''s weapon was caught, and his naked body couldn''t block his power. Darkseid delivered his Omega punch to Zion''s chest, sending him rocketing and colliding with the rubble, creating a cloud of dust with a height of 200 meters.


    Darkseid looked at his hand, where the cut was made and his blood dripped. The cut was not closing; his healing had halted. Even the wound on his shoulder was not healed. The God Killing spear was showing its effect, and even his Omega effect couldn''t do much to it. Darkseid smiled, "A worthy opponent."


    Batman, who had climbed out of the rubble and looked at the devastating effects of the exchange, wanted to quit his job and go back to being a billionaire. He was just fighting street thugs yesterday, and now he watched god fight, and without the armor Zion provided, he would have been killed in the resulting explosions.


    But he will not quit because he is Batman.{This part is a joke}


    *****


    Was the fight scene good? Did you like how I wrote the fight?

 53 - Colosseum

    Matthew 7:7-8


    "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened."


    I will be adding bible verses.


    *****


    "Welcome to The Colosseum," a voice boomed.


    ~CHEERS~


    A thunder of cheers followed the voice; thousands of people rejoiced, each unique on their own, expressing their excitement. These photonic beings were the audience to today''s match. They were here to witness the blood-boiling collision of two worlds, where blood and bones would be shed and souls would be lost.


    "Okay, okay," Z.A.I appeared on the black grounds. He gazed at the thousands of spectators on grandstands, their excitement resonating with him. "I know that you guys are excited, but let me first introduce the challengers!"


    ~WOOOOOOOOOO~


    Another thunder of cheers followed.


    "On to my left, the one and only Furies!"


    At Z.A.I''s words, three humanoids appeared through glitched space. They fell to their knees at the sudden shift in gravity and pressure, but they quickly gathered themselves. The Furies quickly drew their weapons in alert as another bout of cheers shook the Colosseum. They looked at the grandstands and the thousands of people who were cheering.


    "The Furies, elite team of female warriors, each a new god, trained only to serve Darkseid and his whims. They were bred to be the finest warriors of Apokolips, ingrained with undying loyalty, and equipped to kill. They are the universe''s imperfect killing machines."


    The Furies turned to Z.A.I, who was announcing. Lashina used her whip to strike at him, but the weapon couldn''t hit a hologram.


    Z.A.I, unbothered, continued his announcement. "On my right...," Zion created an effect of suspense, "Earth''s mightiest warriors!"


    ~WOOOOOOOOO~


    The people cheered, and Earth''s mightiest appeared through the glitched space. They stood straight, their eyes immediately taking in their surrounding. Green Lantern flew up and saw the thousands of people who were cheering, even some women who sent him a flying kiss.


    Martian Manhunter just analyzed the situation calmly. Wonder Woman pointed her blades at Z.A.I.


    "Release us," she demanded.


    Z.A.I. turned to Wonder Woman, smiled, and flew up. "The Earth''s Mightiest, Wonder Woman, champion of the Amazons, Martian Manhunter, the strongest telepath, and Green Lantern."


    The crowd cheered.


    "Now that our challengers are introduced, let us begin the match," Z.A.I spoke before he turned to the challengers. "If you wish for freedom, defeat your challengers."


    "Do you think we would work to your whims, mortal," Gilotina lashed.


    Z.A.I just smiled. "You have failed Darkseid, Furies. Do you think he would forgive you?" The Furies remained silent; they knew the price of failure. "But here is your chance! Defeat Earth''s protectors and take their heads to Darkseid."


    Z.A.I then turned to The Justice Three. "Furies, they have ended many civilizations, doomed many planets, and Earth is their next target. Do your duties." With that, he vanished from them.


    Wonder Woman looked at the Furies. "As a fellow warrior, I suggest we work together to escape before we begin killing each other."


    Martian Manhunter and Green Lantern flew next to her.


    "You are dreaming if you think that we, gods, will lower ourselves to work with lowly creatures. Us Furies don''t need your help. We will defeat you and present your head to Darkseid. Hail Darkseid," Lashina cried as she attacked with her whip.


    Artemiz drew her bow, and Gilotina unsheathed her twin blades.


    "Getting killed by hot chicks, not the worst way to go," Hal commented as his ring flashed bright.


    ''Do not let your guard down, they are strong and full of evil,'' Martian Manhunter spoke in their minds.


    "So be it, we shall defeat them," Wonder Woman commented as she slapped away the whip before charging into battle.


    ***


    "So, where were we Barda?" Z.A.I turned to his prisoner.


    Big Barda, Leader of the Furies, strongest warrior made in Granny goddess''s orphanage. She had many titles and was an unequaled fighter that even Darkseid kept an eye on her. Yet now, she was confined in a prison of sunstone that wrapped around her, keeping her from moving an inch. She could only show her frustration on her face. She looked like she would maim Z.A.I with her bare hands.


    "Oh yes, we were on the subject of betraying Darkseid," Z.A.I spoke, not minding Barda''s look of granting death. "What do you say?"


    "You would be a fool to think I would betray Darkseid," Big Barda barked back.


    "Really?" Z.A.I tilted his head, his face revealing an amused smile. "You shouldn''t lie, Barda. You were already thinking of leaving Apokolips with your husband, Mister Miracle."


    Z.A.I''s statement broke Barda''s facade, only for a moment. She quickly hid her emotions; she wasn''t the leader of the Furies for nothing. "I will never betray Darkseid. I will die before I betray Darkseid."


    "You already have, Barda. You fell in love," Z.A.I smiled, a genuine happy smile. "Not everyone finds their love, but you did, even in the hellscapes of Apokolips. I congratulate you on that; I hope I could too, but my situation is a bit... special.


    Sorry... I was going off track. Barda, where were we again?


    Oh, yes, your betrayal. Forgive me for being such a forgetful person; most of my processing unit is being used to fight Mother Box and Father Box for control. But we are back on track. Barda, you already know that Apokolips has no future. Your eyes were opened to it by Aurelie''s death. You gained your resolve in your love. You are just waiting for the time to leave your dark past behind. Am I wrong, Barda?"


    Barda''s fake anger vanished from her face, but she remained silent, not admitting to anything. But her silence was more than an answer.


    "I have a proposition for you, Barda. I am willing to lend you a hand if you are willing to leave Darkseid and live here in my city," Z.A.I stated, "I am only doing this because I like you, Barda; that is also the only reason the Furies are still alive."


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.Z.A.I released Barda from her confines. The sunstone retreated back into the ground, granting Barda the freedom of movement.


    "Darkseid will never allow this; he will send his whole army to capture me. And if Scott leaves, High Father will attack Apokolips," Barda replied, rubbing her sore hands.


    "Do you really think that they cares? Those two idiots are only waiting for the opportunity to kill each other," Z.A.I commented.


    He never liked those who called themselves gods; nothing but narcissistic idiots with powers. Their arrogance will always pave the path to their demise. High Father and Darkseid are just the two sides of the same coin; they just want to kill each other, nothing more.


    "Moreover, Darkside will die today," Z.A.I waved his hand and displayed the battle on Earth.


    It was the clash between Zion and Darkseid. For the first time, she saw Darkseid being met with equal force and being harmed. She saw the unrelenting fight between two cosmic beings decimate the surroundings.


    The projection vanished after a minute.


    "Use this to return home," Z.A.I placed a spear in Barda''s hand, "This functions similarly to a Boom Tube. I am keeping the Mother Box occupied, so you only get a small window to get everything and everyone you want and return without leaving a trail."


    Barda looked at the metal orb with many intricate similar to a mother box running on them. She then looked at Z.A.I. "Why are you doing this? What do you want in return?" Barda knew that nothing came for free. Even the most benevolent of people expect something in return.


    Z.A.I gave her a smile, "I like a good ending, and you might help tame a fluffball of fury. Now, leave."


    Barda activated the Orb and glitched out of reality.


    "May a god fall today," Z.A.I muttered, looking at the projection.


    ***


    The Furies and Earth''s mightiest were stuck in their battle.


    Wonder Woman met Gilotina''s blades with her own, their clashes echoing off the walls of the Colosseum drowned by the cheers of the audience. The sparks witnessed the clash of wills. Gilotina''s blades were fierce like wild beasts as they met Diana''s graceful ones. The battle of fury and warrior''s grace made their battle even more breathtaking.


    Really, two beauties in tight-fight swimsuits battling with blades. You don''t get to see that anywhere else. (¡«£þ¨Œ£þ)¡« Kidding!


    Gilotina went for the kill, but Wonder Woman matched her mettle without relenting. Wonder Woman parried the twin sword and kicked Gilotina, but Gilotina rolled with the kick and jumped back.


    "Do you need help?" Green Lantern asked as he flew overhead, followed by many arrows.


    "I can handle myself; worry about yourself," Wonder Woman moved, avoiding Lashina''s whip, and struck back.


    Green Lantern turned and constructed many flare decoys to combat the arrows. The explosion of the arrows made him a bit frightened. "You''ve got to be kidding me!"


    Green Lantern decided to go on the offensive to save his livelihood and constructed many missiles and sent them at Artemiz. The green missiles flew towards Artemiz before they met her arrows and exploded in the air.


    The two exchanged an aerial battle continued as missiles and gunfire met arrows. Green Lantern used a Gatling gun to shoot down Artemiz, but she was nimble and fast enough to dodge his bullets. However, in the middle of her acrobatic stunt, she felt her body freeze and caught a missile to the face.


    "Thanks, Manhunter," Green Lantern stated as he moved his fire to Lashina.


    Martian Manhunter shifted through the barrage of bullets, but Lashina swung her whip, protecting her and tanked the rest with her skin. The New God physiology really comes through. Martian Manhunter, noticing this, shifted his direction.


    Lashina, furious, whipped at Green Lantern. Green Lantern created a massive hand and grabbed the whip and pulled. Lashina was lifted off her feet and met Manhunter''s fist. The punch sent her flying in Artemiz''s direction.


    Artemiz rolled away, avoiding collision with Lashina and released a flurry of arrows at Green Lantern and Manhunter.


    "They are really durable," Green Lantern commented to which Manhunter just nodded.


    While the duo was ganging up on the two poor ladies, Wonder Woman was locked in a battle with Gilotina. The two were head-locked, each going for the kill.


    Wonder Woman parried the blades, dropped down, and performed a leg sweep. Gilotina, losing her balance, fell to the ground and rolled away, avoiding the stomp from Wonder Woman. Gilotina gathered herself and blocked Wonder Woman''s heavy slash with her blade, but she got Spartan kicked. {Truly the daughter of Zeus}


    Gilotina rolled back, wind knocked out of her lungs. Wonder Woman didn''t stop and shield-bashed Gilotina before she practiced combos on Gilotina to the point the new god bled. {She should have played God Of War before coming here}


    She then tied up the defeated Gilotina and turned to her fellow colleagues.


    Manhunter was flying around with many arrows following him while Green Lantern rained fire from the air. He pulled out all his arsenal and fired it at the Furies. Manhunter used the smoke created by the explosion and directed the arrows that were following him to the Furies.


    He caught the two Furies who didn''t know better and threw them at the arrows. His strength was comparable to Superman; the Furies were paperweight. The arrows struck true and exploded on their faces.


    However, Artemiz hadn''t only used her heat-seeker arrows but also her binding arrows. The two burned Furies found themselves tied up. The two Furies wiggled to get out of their binds to no avail. They were tied and defeated.


    Green Lantern grabbed the two with his light constructs. He had a cocky smile on his face. "Would you look at that, we lowly creatures defeated you."


    Lashina could only growl and struggle.


    Wonder Woman dragged the beaten Gilotina and tied up the three together. Yet the battle is yet to end; they need to find a way to leave here.


    "Good work, people."


    *****


    Am I the only one who read Lashina as Lasagna? And what with the freaking spelling for lasagna? How do you even pronunciation this?


    And Who got chills when he said a "May a god fall today"

 54 - god Killer #2

    For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:


    ( Ephesians 2 : 8 )


    *****


    *Boom* *Crick Crack* *Bam*


    "Litters!" Zion exclaimed as he rose from the rubble.


    He had dug at least few meters into the earthern wall with that punch. His dress was a torn and his skin was covered in dust. He was a total mess and looked like had rolled in mud.


    He used the Spears reality warping power to fix the coat, again. After fixing himself, he looked at the battlefield. Area of three hundred thousand meters was leveled and sunken one kilometer below water level, including sea floor. He could see the water wall made by his barrier.


    They have devastated the land with their clashes.


    "Well, all long as no one points their fingers," Zion shrugged and started walking.


    At the last moment before Darkseid punch connected, Zion warped the spear to his hand and blocked the overcharged Omega punch. Had he not, he would have burst like a water balloon. Darkseid was really taking this fight seriously and drawing more from his Omega effect, Which is making Zion draw more power from the Spear.


    "Maybe I should just destroy the whole solar system and find a better place to live. Yeah, I could even rule the planet. No one would be there to annoy me and I can just chill. I can just abandon this Crux world. I should just do it." Zion was increasingly feeling more annoyed, at everything.


    A dark aura from the spear was digging through his hand and crawling to his head. The corruption of spear was slowly starting to influence him, especially with more power he drew from it. The influence was showing its effect now that the target of hostility was away. The focus on Darkseid had momentarily shifted, leaving a gap for it to control.


    The images of riches, beauties and the dead bodies he would pile to make his throne. The dark hold crawled into the depth of his psyche to take control, making him fall to its temptations. Zion face started displaying more frenzy as more memories the dark hold took control. Finally it arrived at the final door, chained with golden chains.


    "Good, You survived," Darkseid stated as he looked at Zion, "Yet not entirely, you have lost yourself to darkness." He smiled.


    "Yet I am unrestrained," Zion spoke, pointing the spear at Darkseid, "Now, come meet your death."


    "I shall remember you, Mortal, as one who gave me joy of battle in eons," Darkseid stated as he charged himself with omega effect that his eyes turned blazing red and the destructive energy leaking in the form of red lightning.


    He then threw the red lightning packed with nature of his Omega effect, destruction. The red lightning tore through space and time and arrived at Zion at an instant. Zion moved, and the spear cleaved the lightning without much effort while sending a wave of chaotic force that bend reality at Darksied.


    Darkseid met the chaotic force with his own, canceling it out but before Darksied could recover, Zion appeared in the air and slammed the spear on Darkseid. Darkseid crossed his arms coated with Omega Effect, blocking it. However, the sheer force packed behind sunk Darkseid and the whole area a kilometer more.


    The oceans churned and the destruction followed. Batman tanked the hurricanes, his gaze never leaving the two who were fighting. {Add meme here.}


    Zion flipped back and vanished into air and appeared behind Darkseid, thrusting his spear into the dark god''s unguarded back. However, Darkseid was a master combatant, he protected his back by firing an omega beam which sent the spear off course before he gave Zion a back handed swing.


    Zion again vanished and appeared to Darkseid''s side, his spear again pointed. Darkseid moved again in time to avoid. Yet Zion vanished and appeared again ready to strike his weak points. Darkseid moved fast enough to block, but Zion kept vanishing in and out of reality, always aiming for the weak spots in Daksied form.


    Zion moved so fast. it looked like Darksied was fighting multiple opponents. Darkseid was getting overwhelmed and Zion was slowly drawing blood. Small cuts appeared on Darkseid, blood dripping from them.


    Darkseid finally having enough of the hide and seek, lifted his legs and stumped with all his power. His Omega effect exploded, pushing Zion from the space fold. Zion stabbed the spears heel to halt his moment and look at Darksied, who look awfully annoyed.


    "Annoying fly," Darkseid stated, his fist turning red with Omega effect.


    He didn''t wait for Zion''s dumb quip and Omega smashed. Zion moved the spear swiftly to defend himself, but the shock wave still threw him back. And Darkseid wasn''t letting, he blitzed next to Zion and gave a heavy punch, sending Zion rocketing towards space. He again blitzed and punched Zion down.


    *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM* *BAM*


    *BOOM*


    This happened a few more times and Zion finally slammed into the Earth walls.


    "Fucking hell."


    Zion staggered out of the crater and spit to the side. His purple blood quickly evaporated and joined the nature. His felt like his insides have burst like a bubble, but that was clearly not the case as he was fully made of mana, however, it sure felt like it. Zion used the spear to support himself as his body started to heal quickly.


    "You hit like a bitch."


    His hand stopped shaking and his buzzing head cleared. The corruption broke the final chains of his subconscious, opening the dark door. It entered and met a darkness that was like an abyss. The corruption tried to spread, but it could never cover infinity.


    ..


    The two now gazed at each other.


    Zion took the spear stance and gestured for Darksied to come. Darkseid accepted the invite and charged at full speed. His each step shook the planet and the trail destruction followed his wake. Omega effect blazed off of Darkseid, his size and power increasing.


    Zion waited, his hands gripping the spear tightly. His eyes fixed tightly on the Dark god, the only obstacle to his dominion, one he would slay. The spear glowed, cosmic energies converging to its tip. The whole spear glowed a golden red mixture, emitting an aura of death.


    Darkseid''s hands took a dark tone and the space around it curved. Gravity increased and Times came to a stand still. Darkseid was using his Gravity manipulation to bend the space and times around his fist to create a more destructive force.


    Zion saw the change but wasn''t fazed. He waited and Darkseid leapt, destructive forces converging on his hands. Zion changed his stance, spinning to the spear around him at increasing speed, gaining momentum before he met Darkseid''s fist.


    ~BOOOOOOOM~


    The force of collision ripped reality, changed time and space. The barrier dissolved and tsunamis rolled into Metropolis. The scale of destruction expanded on an unimaginable scale. The sheer force shifted the tectonic plates of earth, the earth divided and the oceans shifted. The scar left in the void would be remembered to the end of time.


    The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.Zion ripped through the earths core and appeared on the other side of the planet while Darksied was pushed past the moon. Zion floated on the space, his suit torn to shreds and leaving only the pants that his Omnitrix gave to Magik.


    Zions mind clouded and consciousness drifted to its darkest corner. He looked up, his mind now clear of corruption. The sealed door was open and the golden chains laid on the ground. His subconscious that took the shape of his room now dark.


    He walked to the door.


    He gazed into the abyss, he could see the corruption constrained in place by the darkness, unable to expand. He walked in and the door closed behind him.


    ...


    "Litters," Zion woke up gasping for air in vacuum of space. "I nearly got lost."


    He immediately turned to the Spear in his hand. The bronze spear tip was burning in golden flame emitting black smoke, golden chains bore out of his hand chaining the Spear as it shook. The Golden flame was burning the corruption and the Spear was trying to escape, yet to its horror it couldn''t warp itself.


    Zion could tell that the corruption had no hold of him anymore. The Spear was purified and now it was nothing but a divine weapon, still capable of slaying gods and demons, and Specter. Zion tightened his grip and the chains retracted back into his hand leaving golden runes on his hands.


    The perfect contrast of bright gold against dark purple.


    "Trix, you got the Bio-Matrix data," Zion asked.


    {Affirmative}


    "Okay, time to end this," Zion stated as he hit the heel of the spear on the space.


    The spear glowed with power and dominance. The space and time knelt and the world they had broken mended back together. The time reversed and Earth returned to the way it was before Zion started the fight.


    "You have shaken off the corruption, Mortal," Darkseid stated as he appear.


    His voice held a hit of surprise for the darkness he felt was great. A normal mortal could never be not affected by it, even if it was made of Magic. Resistance was futile.


    "I know, I am awesome," Zion stated without a worry.


    "Yet it won''t stop your end," Darkseid stated as he entered into his third boss phase.


    His eyes glowed like burning inferno, his whole body was covered in Omega effect and red lightning coiled around his body. His size increased, so did the power. His whole aura spoke of unending destruction.


    Zion with the Spear of Destiny in his hands looked at Darkseid like he was playing a game and watching the boss go into second phase.


    "Submit before me, and I might let you live, or suffer the consequences of your insolence. There is no escaping the inevitable, for I am Darkseid, and before me, all light fades to nothingness." Darkseid stated.


    This was his final offer to Zion, as a worthy Warrior who entertained him, Darkseid wanted him to his side, to be under his rule. Darkseid like those that opposed him to be slaved. His felt pleasure in watching them suffer.


    "No, Nope, Nah." Zion rejected. "You are no end, you are no darkness." Zions eyes took a different emotion," I have seen worlds end. I have witness great darkness swallow creation. I have seen void take form and oblivion rewritten. I have seen flames of creation being stuffed and born anew.


    But You... You are nothing but a shadow born of light."


    Zion spoke as his took his stance, his hands spread at distance, gripping the spear stably. His form was perfect like that of a spear master and the Spear of Destiny blazed with golden flames. The glyph on Zions arm glowed with the spear.


    The reality twisted, creaked, and tore. Space and Time became chaotic.


    "You speak of greater darkness? Such arrogance," Darkseid was royally pissed. He as a Dark god have been trying to attain that form, to be the great darkness that ruled over everything. "I AM DARKNESS, I AM END, I AM DEATH, I AM YOUR GREATEST FEAR!!!"


    "And I am here to conquer," Zion stated as he thrust forward the now gigantic spear.


    The spear moved through realities and collided with Darkseid, making him take a step back and kept pushing him. Darkseid used his full power to obliterate the golden spear, but his efforts were futile.


    However, Darkseid didn''t need to destroy it. He punched smashed the spear to the side, removing himself from the tip of the spear. Zion glitched and appeared, his spear burning ready to kill him. Darkseid blasted his over charged Omega beam, but Zion deflected it with ease and slashed at Darkseid.


    Darkseid met the spear with his fist with the red lighting and omega effect on blast mode. The destructive forces crawled toward Zion, but they were destroyed before they even got near him.


    Zion then jumped, crossing through realities, he saw galaxies twist in the corner of his vision, but he didn''t have time to enjoy them. Zion jumped back to where Darkseid stood, however Darkseid was not there. Zion turned, "Floppers."


    Darkseid''s Omega covered fist collided with Zion''s face. The punch oblibrated Zions face, but it began to heal with the power of the Spear. But Darkseid slowed down time with his gravity manipulation and punched Zion with his full force a thousand time in a matter of second. Darkseid ended his time dilation and Zion''s body turned to red mist in space.


    He grabbed the spear of destiny.


    Zion, the wielder of Omnitrix and the Spear of Destiny, died at the hands of Darksied.


    Darkseid after fighting so long with Zion, had already got the hang of his reality jumps. This time Darksied was ready and Zion had let his guard down. Zion had gotten arrogant due to his expanded power, making him think he could beat the dark god easily.


    Darkseid used the Spear of Destiny to not only conquered Earth, but also gained the anti-life equation. He then used the anti-life equation to control all life in the universe and became a supreme god of the universe.


    But it was not the end of his regime, He wanted more and he wanted the other universe. He used his power to tear through reality and conquered many other universes in the multiverse.


    The Mad God conquest continued...


    .


    .


    .


    .


    ***


    Thank you for reading My Fan-fic, I enjoyed writing it and I hope you guys enjoyed reading it. I am thinking of writing another Fan-fic with MCU.


    So, let us meet in another story.


    .


    .


    "Just kidding," Zion appeared through another reality crack.


    The Spear of Destiny in Darkseid''s hands vanished while Zion held the real one which stabbed through Darkseid''s calves.


    "I am Inevitable." He spoke as he kicked the spear, tearing Darkseid''s legs to ribbons, making the god kneel, before he spun the spear and slashed Darkseid''s neck, killing the Dark god and ending his regime of tyranny.

 55 - Aftermath

    "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." - ??John? ?15:13¡­


    *****


    "GIVE HIM BACK!!!!"


    "GIVE HIM BACK!!!!"


    "GIVE HIM BACK!!!!"


    Zion screamed at the top of his lungs.


    -A Few Moment Before-


    The Spear of Destiny divided the Dark god''s skin like a mathematician, precise. Zion''s full focus was concentrated on ending him and he was too close to achieving it. He had sealed of his retreat and caught him unguarded, he couldn''t and wouldn''t let this guy leave here alive.


    However, what Zion didn''t expect was another''s involvement.


    An Ax collided with the Spear of Destiny, derailing its path while a giant kicked Darkseid away from its grip. The Spear was fast enough to carve through the Dark god''s chest, but was slow that it couldn''t end him.


    The spear ended its course and Zion looked at the bloodied spear in a daze for a moment. He couldn''t believe that death of an arrogant god had slipped by his hands. His head snapped in Darkseid''s direction, fury burning in his eyes.


    "GIVE HIM BACK!!!!"


    "HE IS MINE!!!!"


    Zion threw the spear in all fury. The Spear of Destiny cleaved through reality and stuck true as it ripped through the giant. But Zion was too late in his reaction. He watched as a Boom-Tube swallow Darkseid while his blood spilled all across the vacuum. {The spear have failed its destiny}


    "Z.A.I!" Zion called as he willed the spear back.


    ["Couldn''t stop it"]


    ["Mother box channeled all her energy to create those Boom-Tubes"]


    ["They were her final ones"]


    "Haaaa," Zion breathed a long sigh and turned to the fish his spear had caught.


    The giant of a man in full armor wearing a helmet adorned with horns. He lifted the spear and looked at the draining life of his annoyance. The guy was at deaths door, if not for the resilience of a New god that would have taken his life and Zion didn''t exactly put the intent to kill, all he wanted was to stop Darkseid but hey, life isn''t fair.


    "Steppenwolf," Zion spoke, "Death will not grace you."


    Zion planted his foot on Steppenwolf''s body and ripped the spear out it. The blood spurted out and filled the empty space. Zion without a care for the blood that covered him, shook the blood of the spear. He then warped Steppenwolf to a chamber in his city where the New god physiology will be thoroughly studied.


    Zion then will himself a presentable and comfy dress. Grey hoodie and track suit. The shaft shrunk to a size that he could keep the spear in his pocket and warped back to metropolis, good as new. He arrived at the docks which looked exactly like when he arrived and Batman standing there. He had no idea what happened to Metallo.


    "Batman," Zion gave a small wave as he walked.


    Batman didn''t wait for any formality and asked the question, "Where is he?"


    "Who?" Zion tilted his head.


    "Darkseid." (?__?)


    "Escaped." (¡ã©`¡ã¡¨)


    "Escaped?" (?_?)


    "Yes." £¨£þ¦á£þ£©


    "Hmm," (?_?)


    "Hmm," (OwO)


    Zion and Batman looked at each other for a moment before Batman turned and walked away. He didn''t pull his vanishing moved due to Zion just looking at him without being distracted. Batman walked back to his jet and rode it to the sun rise.


    Zion stood as he watched sun rise. He watched the sky turned red as a yawn knocked at his mouth.


    "Zai, Are the Mechmorphs back?" Zion asked as he yawned.


    ["Yes and all accounted"]


    "Proceed with the plan, I will meet those idiots in a week," Zion stated as he glitched out of reality and appeared before his warehouse.


    Zion opened the spatial lock and retrieved his car. He was tired and had spent a year''s worth of social battery. He wanted to go home and not think about any of this. So, that''s what he did.


    He want home, to Heavenfield.


    ***


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    Z.A.I walked into the room full of people, four.


    Superman, Kara, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern. The mightiest heroes of Earth. They had watched the whole fight between Zion and Darkseid. They saw the devastation of such fight. They were agitated at first when Z.A.I approached, but they were convinced after he showed them the image of Darkseid.


    "Hello guys, you can return home now," Z.A.I spoke ask he walked in, "Happy, £¨£þ¦á£þ£©¨J¡¡"


    Z.A.I informed the heroes that they can go home. The heroes immediately stood up at his voice, each having a different emotions. They had seen the whole fight between Zion and Darkseid, also his escape.


    "Where is Zion?" Kara questioned.


    "Zion went home," Z.A.I answered.


    "Home?" Superman asked.


    "Home," Zion answered, pressing the word.


    "Then explain in his stead," Kara demanded.


    Other heroes could only watch as Kara seemed more familiar to the person in question then them. They all watched them converse waiting to catch details they need, answers to their question.


    "Explain why that guy was targeting Earth?" Kara demanded.


    "Okay, I will try to explain what is going on," Z.A.I decided to give answers. "Let''s start with Darkseid is. Darkseid is the ruler of a hell world called Apokolips. He was here to conqure earth and use its resources to power Apokolips.


    As for Darksied and his goons, they call themselves New gods. They are being who have reached the peack of evolution and genetic stability.


    I hope this quench your curiosity because I can''t give you another answer."


    The heroes looked at Z.A.I still holding many questions but Z.A.I was not going to answer them.


    "Some of you have the means to get your answers," Z.A.I threw a bone, looking at Wonder Woman and Green Lantern. "But now it is time for you to return. I will send the other back later.


    Bye-bye"


    "Wait-"


    All of them glitched out before Kara could begin another chain of dialogues.


    "Haaa," Z.A.I sighed, "I better let Zion deal with her. Let me return to courting Mother Box maybe she will hand over the rest of the authority. I should really find a better job."


    ***


    The Heroes of Earth materialized before a crowd of onlookers who gasped at their sudden appearance. They quickly gathered around the four heores, making inquires about the abnormalities of the past hours.


    The onlookers consisting of police, reporters and civilians, barraged the heroes with question. Superheroes were overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of inquires. Green Lantern unable to take the pressure and not wanting to deal with crowd control took to the skies. He had questions and hoped the guardians would answer.


    "I will take my leave," Wonder Woman was polite enough to saw that before departing. She was going home to ask questions and hoped her mother or the gods would answer.


    With only the Supers left behind, Superman being the mature one as both superhero and reporter decided to answer the inquires or at least calm the masses. He flew up so all could see him.


    "I do not know of the being who attacked Earth but I am familiar with this person who calls himself Nion. I have conversed with him and I believe he want to do good. But I assure you that If earth is endangered, I will be there to do my duty," Superman promised.


    "So return home and wait for the authorities to handled this mess, please don''t create panic among people. We will protect the Metropolis as we did before."


    He then looked at the anxious faces of the people and gave them an assured smile. He knew that the people were afraid of the future and what it means for them. But he hoped Zion, as a terran, would only have Earths best in his mind.


    There were many reasons he didn''t try to fight Zion in freeing Earth and letting it continue the way it did. As a reporter he had seen how corrupt the world is. He had seen the world for what it was but a change was needed. He could only do so much, but Zion with control over the whole planet and its government could do more.


    He just hoped that it won''t be another tyranny. He gave them a nod before flying away.


    Kara flew up and looked down at the people, she could feel they still feared, "We will continue to protect this city. I will break the bones of those try to do otherwise."


    Kara assured in her own way before flying away.


    ...


    On one of the high towers of Metropolis had gathered the backup Batman called. They watched as the heroes appeared and be flanked by the crowd.


    They had gathered here in after dealing with trouble of their own. Flash had helped the star labs on their own pest, but he was late to save the Dr. Stone''s kid. however the doctor had already helped his son in his own way.


    But the kid flew away somewhere.


    He also met the Mechmorph who only attacked the things that came out of the portal. So he let them alone to deal with the things in Central City and answered Batman''s call and met up with the others he had gathered.


    He then met up with Green Arrow, as the vigilante called himself, and Black Canary who arrived later. They had gather at the top to scout but they were unable to intervene in the fight due to the barrier. They didn''t even try to destroy the barrier as it was the only thing that was protecting the rest of the city from being leveled.


    Each recognized that the fight was beyond their pay grade. So they opt to watch and they did. They waited just in case something else pops up and saw the heroes appear.


    "Should we go introduce ourselves?" Flash asked.


    "No." Green Arrow gave his answer and took his head.


    "We got nothing to do here," Canary took her leave too.


    "Okay," Flash watched as Superman flew away and blitzed away.


    ***


    It took few hours for people across the world to finally calm down. They all saw that they were not dead and their life continued the same as it did the day before. All had returned to the normal except for the glooming fear of unknown.


    People tried to return to their now so normal life until Nion released another message.


    "Hello, people of Terra." Nion appeared in all screen across the world in his iconic suit and helmet, "I know that most of your are scared of the future after my whole announcement of taking over earth. Do not worry, there is nothing to fear, I only think to improve your lives.


    And I mean, you have already let many deceive you and lead you astray with no hope in sight. You all messed up the whole planet and still struggling to even comprehend it. Those at the hierarchy lead you to nothing but destruction while they enjoy the riches, don''t you think it is time for something better.


    Again I assure you that their will not be much change to your daily lived and I am going not trying slave you humans, but I have come to free your of your shackled and lead you to the stars. In about a decade after my take over, all of you can look forward to your journey to the stars.


    Even the distance of the next galaxy won''t be an pipe dream. I will end poverty and make your lives better.


    I promise you all of this on my takeover, but I can''t guaranty that your government will like that growth, after all who would like their sheep''s eyes being opened.


    I will meet the heads of your world in UN council in New York city next Sunday. I hope this transition is smooth and all of your are ready for the better future.


    Peace out. ©d(£þ¨Œ£þ) Bye~Bye~"


    The screens turned dark, and the world stood still in silence.


    "Sorry, your communications are back!" Nion appeared again and gave a slight heart attack to people.


    With that the screen turned black and the notifications sound filled the cities as the communication network came back online. The amount of traffic in each of these sites crashed them. The people who couldn''t communicate shared their thoughts across many platforms.

 56 - Home

    ~Ring Ring~ ~Ring Ring~


    The sound of the door bell echoed in the serenity calm of the house.


    A young man about 5''7" walked from the kitchen, his bare foot tapped across the marbled floor. He wore a loose T-shirt and a black trousers. His brown hair cut short and his amber eyes holding peace. He opened the inner wooden door and looked through the screen door to see who it was.


    The person who had rung the bell immediately looked to him as the door opened. He waved his hand with a tired smile. The young man in grey hoodie looked like he had had the worst day of his life, absolutely drained of life.


    "Zion?" Mark asked as he opened the screen door.


    "Yo mate," Zion replied in a tried voice as he walked himself in.


    He removed his slippers and placed them in the rack with familiarity. He then walked into the living room, placed the bag he was carrying on the table and flopped down on the couch. He squirmed for a moment before he settled on his comfortable position.


    He then extended his hand to take the food he had bought, but noticed that Mark was still standing.


    Mark stood as he watch Zion take back his throne, the place he was every time of the day. Zion had been fixed to that comfy couch that even Marks parents don''t sit there, well except for Mark''s mother. Zion was respectful towards the lady as the men of the house were under her control.


    "You want some?" Zion asked as he took his smoothie and a roll of shawarma.


    He had bought the food from Bobbi''s. The man was competent enough to not shut down the restaurant. He basically didn''t care of the situation, he was even cheery about the new power''s take over. He said and I quote, "I don''t need to worry as long as Superman says he will protect us."


    He also gave him extra rolls, due to his frequent visits.


    "Really? Fast food the first thing in the morning?" Mark asked as he took the single seater.


    He also took a shawarma and unwrapped it. He had yet to have his breakfast and the food was still hot. The duo ate their meal in silence and comfort, not sharing a word. They went back to a time, about two months ago, revisiting their time together in this house.


    "Aunt May and Uncle Ben aren''t back yet?" Zion asked as he gulped the last bit and slurped the smoothie.


    "They will be back in about a month or so. They seem to be enjoying the break," Mark remarked. "I just pray that they will return safe with all the things that has been happening," Mark shared his worries to his trusted friend.


    He had seen the declaration and the fireworks that happened last night. He had also felt light shockwaves that travels through the earth and the fireworks that happened on the night sky. He was scared, even with superpowered individual he felt so small. He was also scared of the future, after all Zion had told him that future will be full of chaos and being of power would collide and the thing are happening.


    "You were not involved in this right, Zion?" Mark asked, expecting a resounding ''No''.


    "No, I was the one who instigated it all," Zion answered to Mark''s dismay.


    Mark chocked on air at Zion''s answer, good thing he ate his food, he had a coughing fit before he turned to Zion. "You...What?" Mark asked still coughing in-between.


    "Yeah, man. You had no idea how much litters went down. I got to know Superman and Batman-"


    "Wait, Batman is real?" Mark asked.


    "Yes, he is and he dress like a bat," Zion answered before continuing, "After that I went to Mars and met up with Martians. I also stole their planet and went to war with them. Then I fought Wonder Woman, Green Lantern and Superman and Martian Manhunter. Then I took over Earth and fought a guy who call himself death named Darkseid."


    Mark looked at Zion frozen, "You kidding me?"


    "Nope dude, I got superpowers remember," Zion answered truthfully and flexed his Omnitrix.


    Mark wiped his face with his hand and took a deep breath. His brain was reorganizing the total dump of data. It went over all of it from the start and linked the events together, but he still got an error at the end. His brain was not braining.


    "Then Nion?" Mark asked, he had seen it on his phone.


    He had freaked out when his phone randomly started playing a video, he nearly exorcised it in fire. He then watched the declaration, and tried to call his parents but he couldn''t. Z.A.I was being fair. He then met with the elders of Heavenfield. The discussion ended with they will see what happens attitude.


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "It is yours truly," Zion grinned.


    Mark looked Zion up and down. Now that Mark though about it, he did find the guy familiar. But his normal mind couldn''t comprehend such absurdity. It not like you would immediately believe something of such significance after living a normal life. He even forgot about Mars and Martians.


    "Why are you taking over the planet? How are you taking over the planet?" Mark asked the two from his million question.


    "Because I can and I want to," Zion answered. "And I have the Nuke codes."


    "Why?" Mark asked still not understanding.


    "Really dude? Do you not see the world? We, humans, have made everything worse. People and countries have lost their ways, men and women are loosing their identities and the children are being killed because a woman couldn''t keep her trap shut!" Zion spoke, a rage rising. "All of it had gone wrong, way too wrong. I am going to correct it. I don''t care about the others but killing children is where I draw the freaking line."


    Zion breathed out gaining back control of his flaring emotions, his suppressed rage was leaking. Maybe he should see a therapist about it. Nah, he would send his therapist to therapy. He sunk into the couch to lose his anger in comfort.


    He was grown in church and was taught about many values of life. He could see that the world for being a shitty place it was. He was a single orphan in a small town, but not anymore. He had power, more power than any could hope for and he will change this damned world. He could rebuild it.


    "Haaaa" Mark sighed but froze before he turned to Zion. "Wait, you didn''t thing of Nuking us first did you?"


    "I did," Zion answered, making Mark fall back. "I wanted to, but then I decided against it. Its like killing an ant colony when one bites you."


    "Thank God," Mark praised.


    People don''t realize how much luck they had to have to not get nuked by a guy who just wanted to nuke the humanity. Zion always had a thought that humans were better extinct, but he had seen potential after knowing the whole story. He might not know what the future holds but he had seen hope, for humanity and all others.


    "You should thank him for me taking over," Zion said.


    Mark just shook his head, "Yes, but how are you going to change the world. You can''t rule like a tyrant. You can''t take peoples freedom away, Zion. People are individual and unique in their own right. All of them won''t conform to societies norm, there are people who are confused and still struggling."


    "That''s why I will be writing the law that will include all of them as a neutral perspective," Zion stated. "I am going to conform society in my vision and towards the right path. Thing will change and people will struggled but they will adapt. What doesn''t kill you, makes you stronger."


    "But they will rebel, they will fight."


    "Let them. Let them fight a wall that cannot be shaken like a democracies'' paper thin values. Let them fight an absolute reign."


    "It not freedom then, Zion. It will be a planet size prison."


    "Freedom is nothing but an illusion, Mark. Freedom is a circle, and rules are its border, You have freedom within those boarder. All I am saying is don''t engage before marriage, don''t kill a child because you are dumb, don''t start a war because of your greed, and faith is not a reason to murder."


    "But do you truly think that you can control 7 billion people."


    "No, I can''t. People will retaliate against me and my rules. Many will rise, but may my throne be taken by a better man, or woman, I don''t care. But until then I will draw the circle and have your freedom within."


    "I don''t know about this, Zion. Controlling the whole planet and its people is more than daunting task for a single individual. I can''t even comprehend it."


    "You don''t need to, Mark."


    "Whatever, I am too simple for this political struggle and monarchy" Mark got up from the couch ready to leave for his work. "I still got work to do at the factory."


    He didn''t want to think of world''s problem, he was a simple man. Zion just gave a nod and didn''t say more.


    Mark stopped for a moment and turned to Zion, "Welcome home, Zion."


    Mark smiled as he watch Zion squirm uncomfortably and didn''t answer. He then put his sandals and walked out.


    Zion looked at the familiar empty house and close his eyes to sleep. He felt safe and at ease. He couldn''t sleep much in Metropolis. He always felt like a gilotin was hanging on his head when he slept, not the best of ways to sleep.


    Finally he let down his guard and slept peacefully.


    ***


    While our little protagonist was taking his well needed nap, the world, more like the hierarchy of world, presidents, generals, rich businessmen, and the hidden power all gathered in their own circle to discuss their situation. They tried to think of ways to secure themselves and their riches, yet they found no way to escape the planet wide siege.


    In the United Nations General Assembly, emergency sessions were convened through skype, with representatives from every nation voicing their concerns and debating possible courses of action. The atmosphere was charged with a mixture of anxiety and determination, as diplomats sought to forge a unified front in the face of an unprecedented threat.


    Simultaneously, intelligence agencies worked around the clock to gather as much information as possible about Nion and his forces. Satellite surveillance, cyber espionage, and covert operations were all deployed in an effort to penetrate the veil of secrecy surrounding the enigmatic invader. But it was all for naught as Z.A.I had already shown that he was able to control their networks.


    Meanwhile, military strategists grappled with the sobering reality that their most potent weapons were rendered impotent against Nion''s advanced technology. He not only had locked down or destroyed their potent weapons but he also controlled their nukes.


    In laboratories and research facilities, scientists raced against time to analyze data collected from previous encounters with Nion and his minions. Every piece of information, no matter how small, was scrutinized in the hopes of uncovering a weakness that could be exploited in the coming confrontation.


    Civilian populations, gripped by fear and uncertainty, looked to their leaders for guidance and reassurance. Emergency preparedness drills were conducted in cities around the world, while citizens stocked up on supplies and made plans to seek shelter in the event of an attack. NGOs and humanitarian organizations mobilized to provide aid and support to those most vulnerable to the coming storm.


    The world prepared for the tides of change and a new rule of power.

 57 - Changes

    "Do I look good?" Zion asked.


    "It looks good," Mark replied.


    "I am asking if it looks good on me," Zion clarified.


    "It does," Mark answered with a smile.


    Zion was wearing his new tuxedo, a brand new one after his old one got obliterated in the fight. This one was better and classier. It was a new full black tuxedo with a white inner shirt. The suit fit his stature and gave off a subtle elegance. He looked ready as a man, ready to move forward, to lead.


    "It is time for me to depart," Zion stated.


    "I know you''ve got plans, but don''t pull the trigger when someone annoys you," Mark advised.


    "I will try not to accuse them of their crimes," Zion stated, his face stoic.


    "Just don''t be hard on them," Mark repeated, "We are all humans, we all make mistakes. Just take it easy, guide them like a shepherd, not command them like a dictator."


    "But I am a dictator, I am their ruler," Zion answered.


    "Then should I bow, your majesty?" Mark mocked, performing a polite bow like a subject to his king.


    "I am still Mark, and I like you calling me Majesty," Zion said, with his head lifted haughtily.


    "Buzz off," Mark gave Zion a playful kick, which he dodged.


    Zion straightened his coat, "Your Majesty will be leaving now, Mark." Zion opened the door, ready to leave.


    "Not going to say anything to the pastor?" Mark asked.


    Zion paused but didn''t turn, "I will speak later."


    Zion, for the last few days, had been avoiding meeting his dad. The man scared him, he admitted. He would rather face a battle with all of Apokolips'' forces than have the talk. The man would instantly know that he was playing around in Metropolis, and he still didn''t know how he did that; he always figured that Zion was up to no good.


    But he had been visiting the orphanage and the church. The place was fully changed, unrecognizable. The orphanage was freshly painted, with new roofs. The restrooms were repaired, and new beds were brought for the children, comfier ones. The kids liked the change and welcomed his presence, but Zion was never good with kids; he couldn''t handle their energy.


    The church grounds were cleaned, and the benches were repainted. The broken window, unattended for as long as he could remember, was finally fixed. They also repainted the whole thing and changed those rotting benches and doors.


    Even though people helped the church and orphanage, it was still lacking funds. Even when the funds arrived, the pastor would rather use those for the children, to take care of their needs. He always said, ''God is in our hearts, it is better for the children to be happy than be sad. Adults can manage.''


    Mark had done a good job with all that with the money that was sent. The pastor was still suspicious.


    "See you later, Mark," Zion glitched out.


    Mark stood near the door as it closed, watching as the space mended itself. He still couldn''t believe the things his friend could do. He always knew that Zion was intelligent, but the guy had always been lazy without a purpose.


    Now, he had one.


    ...


    The world had gathered today to watch the world change.


    A new power.


    A new beginning.


    A new path.


    A new history being written.


    The UN had gathered with all those that led. Every substantial figure for the world was gathered in a single room. They were all waiting for the new power to appear. They had done all they could to gather as much information on him, but all they could deduce was undetectable, at least with their military power.


    Some had even contacted the vigilantes, yet all had taken a back seat at the event. They all knew of the corruptions they were fighting against and they wished to see a change. However, most didn''t bother because of Superman''s statement. Superman was a substantial figure among the vigilantes; he was the symbol of heroism, and the man had decided to see what would happen.


    And outside the UN council, many had gathered. From civilians, reporters, and military personnel to significant superheroes, such as Batman, Superman, Flash, Arrow, Black Canary, Ghostmaker, and many others, had gathered. They were all here, ready for battle if the situation warranted.


    Superman was floating above to display his presence and calm the populace. Batman, Flash, Arrow, and Black Canary had gathered together. Ghostmaker did reveal his presence to Batman, but nothing more. The other vigilantes were hiding or in their normal mode among the crowd.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    The UN council was telecasting the meeting for the day as the world needed to know of their new ruler. This was, of course, made at Zion''s request when he had given them his schedule for the meeting.


    The anticipation hung in the air as the time for his arrival neared and the clock ticked to 11. A few alarms went off to show that the time was up and Zion glitched into existence on the central podium, surrounded by seating for representatives from each country.


    Zion looked around the grand chamber adorned with flags representing all nations, arranged in a semi-circular fashion. The room was spacious, with a high ceiling and elegant decor, reflecting the diplomatic significance of the space. The atmosphere was one of solemnity and purpose.


    The leaders sat straight at Zion''s appearance, yet none stood to greet him. Zion didn''t mind, nor did he care. These people were of no significance to him, nothing but failed experiments that would guide him toward the correct path.


    Zion pulled the chair and took his seat. He tapped the mic to check if it was working and spoke.


    "Hello, nice to meet you, mannerless people," Zion stated, his bionic voice sarcastic.


    The humans who were watching felt a slight fear at the statement. They felt their stomachs sink. They were afraid that they were going to get eliminated for not greeting someone who was trying to take over the planet.


    "It was nice of you to stand and greet your now king," Zion continued. "At least your parents thought you had manners."


    At Heavenfield, Mark facepalmed at the statement. He could clearly see that Zion was getting into the role of a ruler. The guy who always complained about the king fearing his subjects on K-Drama was a king now.


    "Good for you.


    Now let us get to the subject of transition of political power. I am your new ruler as stated before and you will be listening to me from today onward. I hope there is no thought of resistance as I do not want bloodshed.


    Now you may ask any questions you have."


    The leaders sat silent for a moment, not wanting to be the first to pose a question. Finally, after a moment, the current president pressed the mic before him. The man looked confident as he began to speak.


    "What legitimacy¡ª"


    "No manners? Get up from your seat when you are speaking to your king," Zion spoke in an emotionless voice.


    The president froze; he now truly felt threatened for some reason. He knew he had power and the person before him was but a single person, yet he didn''t feel safe. He swallowed as he sat, not knowing what to do.


    "Stand up if you wish to speak," Zion commanded.


    The president sat there, his mouth shut. But someone else stood up before him and asked the question. It was the UK''s president; he was sitting nearby.


    "May I speak?" He asked, politely.


    "You can," Zion answered, "Take your seat."


    The president sat back and spoke into the mic. "What legitimacy do you claim for your authority, and how do you justify circumventing established democratic processes?"


    He asked his question, and due to the advanced translation installed in the devices, the other presidents understood the question. They all turned to Zion, waiting for his answer.


    Zion shifted in his position and placed his leg on the table. "What gives you the right to ask the question? Is it your presidency or the representative of the people?"


    "I am asking this as the representative of the people?" The president replied.


    "Okay," Zion nodded. "I will answer this for you all, so listen up. Your system is garbage, and that is more than enough reason to warrant this shift of power. Your inadequacy at your job has not only drained blood from the poor but also favored the rich. Your system is corrupted and rigged. You favor those you think are close and have made all the worst mistakes without attempting to change. You fight for limited land and cause war for your greed and destroy heritage and culture.


    I think that is enough of an answer?" Zion asked at the end.


    The president didn''t know what to say to that. How could he refute what he knew was correct? He stayed silent instead of speaking.


    "Okay, next question."


    "Who are you exactly, and what gives you the authority to make these drastic changes?" Another president stood up.


    "I am Nion, and my origins will be kept safe for your protection. I come from an advanced race and am here to keep you safe due to some opposing powers that will kill all of you without a thought," Zion answered without revealing too much.


    "Was it your people who fought in the skies of Metropolis?" The president continued.


    Zion nodded, "Yes, we were preventing an invasion."


    "Will you be revealing their identity?" He asked.


    "Not yet," Zion answered, "Next question."


    The man stopped his questions as he wasn''t getting any answers.


    "Who appointed or empowered you to unilaterally make decisions on behalf of the entire population?" This time it was a female; the woman looked to be in her 40s as she stood up to speak.


    "You can take your seat after asking the question; I just need to know which one of you is speaking," Zion said before answering the question.


    "As for your question, I would say God, the one and only. All of you have walked away from him."


    Zion''s answer stunned them, but they recovered quickly.


    "Who is this GOD you speak of?" Another asked.


    "You know him well," Zion answered. "He goes by the name Jehovah." {The Presence}


    Of course, this stunk some people of power. Not everyone wanted to accept that a spaceman knew of their god. Their faith retaliated, but they could do nothing, and they didn''t have many arguments, as most of the presidents were Christians.


    "Now to the next question," Zion spoke, ending the conversation.


    This time, another stood up. "How will you respond to opposition or resistance to your rule, both domestically and internationally?"


    "I will listen to why they oppose my rule, and if it aligns with my morals and ideals, we can have a conversation on how to change it. If not, and you are clearly annoyed because something stupid thing you want to do is being obstructed, I will show you what it means to see right," Zion answered.


    "Is there room for negotiation or compromise in your vision for the future, or is it non-negotiable?"


    "Some I would negotiate, and others I won''t."


    Like this, the questions continued. Zion answered all those he could and explained his intent. He always replied with authority and showed his dominance. The presidents listened without causing any mess and asked their questions taking turns. This continued for hours before they ended their questions.


    Zion also revealed his intent to rewrite their system, but the process would be gradual to not confuse the populace. This would involve many rewrites of laws, governance, and etc. Though some laws will be implemented immediately, such as the cancellation of student debt, free education for all, illegalization of abortion, and increasing career openings for space exploration.


    "Since the questions are over, let me leave with a final announcement," Zion stated, straightening and sitting up right.


    "I am now your ruler, and don''t think for a moment that you could threaten me with your puny little weapons and all the missiles. Even your nukes are useless against me. I may have come alone, but I am far more powerful than you could imagine."


    Zion snapped, and tens of people fell through glitched space. They all were geared with many weapons and were of different origins. They were all mercenaries or villains who had been hired, or were stupid enough, to try to kill him. They were hired by different people, and he knew who they were.


    "I will meet all those who hired these idiots tomorrow personally," Zion stated as he glitched out.

 58 - Cause

    "Guardians," Hal Jordan looked up at the Oan guardians.


    The short-tall blue humanoids beings looked down on Green Lantern Hal Jordan. Their eyes held an otherworldly wisdom. They were the self-appointed Guardians of the Universe, believed to the first intelligent species of the universe. The ones that lead to keep peace across the universe.


    "Hal Jordan, we were expecting your arrival," One of the leading heads spoke.


    "Then you should know why I am here," Hal looked at them all, his head turning. "Who was it that attacked earth? Why is he targeting it?" He questioned.


    The guardians remained silent for a moment before one of them spoke, "We will answer your question, but we would like you to answer our question,"


    "What is it?" Hal asked.


    The Oan waved as the will created a construct of a nightmarish creature, one that Green Lantern recognized. The burning creature that invoked a instinctual horror in Green Lanterns mind.


    "We would like to know where this being is?" Guardian asked.


    "On earth," Hal answered. "What is he? I have never met one like him."


    "They are the ancestors of who you would call Martians, originating from the Mars your sister planet. They were suppose to not be one in existence as they have evolved, gotten better. This ones existence is rare and a danger to the peace of the universe."


    Hal looked at the frightening being, he somehow got the gist that they were dangerous as he had first hand experience on their strength. The guy was powerful than any he had met and he had fought four of them without breaking much sweat.


    But, "Why is he dangerous?" Hal questioned.


    The Guardians looked at each other, conversing psychically before one answered Hal Jordan''s question.


    "They are what we call used to call Inferno. They are Cataclysmic. Disaster. Fire...Birth," The construct changed and displayed an eldritch horror of Burning Martians spawning. "The psychic suffering of others combined with the physical condition of the Inferno allows them to asexually reproduce. As a species, they exist to cause suffering and burn and breed. Nothing more."


    "This," Hal felt true horror.


    The implications were clear to him. If this being, this horror, wasn''t confined, the earth, a place filled with suffering would become a breading house for the Inferno.


    "We would like you to bring him to us," Guardian spoke, "Take the best of the Lanterns in case he retaliate."


    "Okay," Hal agreed, he was about to turn to leave, but he remembered why he was here, "About my question?"


    "We will have that conversation after the threat is dealt with," The Guardian told.


    "Okay," Hal nodded and took his leave.


    ..


    "The Lanterns can''t contain an Inferno," One of the Guardians spoke up. "They are not equipped to engage."


    "They have, the ring is powerful enough," Other responded.


    "We can always intervene in case things deviate," Another suggested.


    "Let us leave this to the Lanterns for now. The Inferno didn''t seem aggressive like his brethren, but we need to know if more exists."


    ***


    "Diana, are you sure you want to do this?"


    "Yes, mother,"


    Diana now stood outside the temple of the gods. She was here to converse with the gods of Olympus. She was out of her armor and was wearing a normal dress. She had cleaned herself to be here, to be present before the gods, Aphrodite to be exact.


    She left her mother and walked into the temple. The long corridor had the depictions of many gods and titan fall, telling the glorious history of Olympians and their shenanigans. These one who were more empathized were the twelve Olympians.


    Diana carried the offering that she would present today to the gods. She arrived at the alter of the gods. This room contained twelve alter, each for the twelve major gods of Olympus. She placed one offering at each alter, to each god.


    Zeus was offered wine and a crown she had forged, Hera was offered lilies, honey and milk she had gathered, Poseidon was offered a shark she had hunted herself, Demeter was offered wheat, Athena was offered olive oil, Apollo laurel leaves and sunflower, Artemis honey and fruits, Ares blood of minotaur, Aphrodite perfumes and oil, Hephaestus jewelry and incense, Hermes a painting and Dionysus wine and grapes.


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    She placed all the offering and knelt in the center of the alters to prey to her gods.


    "Gods of Olympus, here my words and grant me your audience. I come before you seeking knowledge. I seek your wisdom and guidance."


    She bowed her head, her fist clenched.


    "Zeus, father of gods, I beseech you to reveal to me the secret of Darkseid''s intention.


    Hera, queen of Olympus, protector of the family, lend me your wisdom and foresight.


    Athena, goddess of strategy and warfare, grant me the knowledge and guide my mind.


    ...


    .."


    Diana prayed to all the god, asking for their audience. She kept her head low as she finished her request. She waited in trepidation, waiting for the gods to answer. As the echoes of her prayer faded into silence, a stirring of divine energy filled the air. The statues of the gods seem to come alive, their eyes glowing with otherworldly light as they consider her plea.


    A voice, soft yet resonant, filled the chamber, speaking with the authority of the Divine. The statue of a man with feathery wings on his legs lit up. Its eyes looked down at Diana. The messenger of gods was now gracing the alter with his presence.


    "Daughter of Themyscira, your words have reached the ear of the gods, and we have heard your plea. To grant you the knowledge you seek, an offering should be made. An exchange, a trade."


    Diana didn''t look up, she knew that she would need to make a sacrifices when she requested a meeting with the gods. She was prepared.


    "What do I need to do?" She asked.


    "Bring us the one that fought the foe, one that who wields the Spear of Destiny. Bring him before us and you may receive the knowledge you seek," Hermes spoke, his voice commanding.


    Diana looked up, she couldn''t understand why they would demand the person who stopped the threat. She wanted explanation, but Hermes cut her off.


    "Do not questions the god''s intentions, Daughter of Themyscira. This is not a request but an order."


    With that the presence of Hermes vanished from the alter, leaving Diana to sit in silence.


    ***


    The change of power didn''t affect the people much as most would think.


    Zion had taken control but he had not explicitly change the system. He had let the leader keep their rule as they were. He understood that sudden change would cause trouble and invoke people to retaliate. At the same time he was not going to let the wrongs go.


    He was a singular force, he was a deterrent with enough power to make the leader bend the knee, but he didn''t have the force to enforce his laws. The Mechmorphs were something that unique to this universe and they were a peaceful species, he would keep them safe as their creator. They were not his slave but subjects to be cared for.


    So, he did the best of his situation. He used his deterring power to make slight changes, one that wouldn''t cause much retaliation, one that goes under the radar. He was changing the world and when people realize that it has been changed, the new will be their norm.


    But that didn''t mean some didn''t retaliate.


    The countries had withdrawn their forces from other countries under his order. Such as US army from Iraq, which lead the terrorist group to run wild and take hostages. They threatened, to have the towns they controlled to be given independence. This cause many steering and many turned to Nion, to see what his answer was.


    Zion was annoyed because he was watching a movie with Mark when the news arrived. Mark was panicked and gave ideas to save the hostage. But Zion called to one of his associates, the fastest man alive, The Flash. It took one minute to solve the problem as that was all it took to convince Barry to intervene. He then called another number, connecting to Kara. He asked her to go and protect the civilians before he arrived.


    Zion as the higher power guarantied that his intervention would cause problem, And you know what happened.


    Flash captured all the terrorists, all of them. No one was left free and all of them knelt, hundreds of them, before the camera that they used to show hostages. Kara was present to protect and give security to the hostages.


    Z.A.I immediately pulled up all the crimes of the terrorist after they were subdued. Zion was revolted. Zion glitched and the billboards and news channel displayed the scene.


    "Hello everyone, I am Nion as you all know," Zion was back in his outfit, his visor black. "I am responding to the hostage situation." Zion turned the camera and showed the hundreds of restrained terrorists.


    "These are the ones that demanded independence by taking hostages," Zion spoke from the background. "But they have all been captured."


    Zion turned the camera to The Flash and Kara, "You should congratulate these heroes who answered my call for help. They have not only saved and protected the hostages, but also captured these men.


    I would like to you you my thanks, Flash and Supergirl."


    Zion turned it to the terrorists, "Now to you guys, what''s your problem? What''s the point?"


    Zion waited for someone to answer but they didn''t show any reaction. Then he remembered that the translation was not turned On.


    "Okay, now its on. You understand me?" Zion asked and they reacted. "Okay, lets return back to the question. Why are you doing all this? All this horror? What''s the point of it all? Aren''t they all humans? You are all the same."


    Zion could see that they wanted to, he removed the gag on the guy near him and looked him in the eyes. The man looked angry. "They have come to infect our tradition, you come to force your belief on us."


    "You kidding me? You killed children and rapped women, terrorized families, committed genocide, all of your are no better then what you say others are doing to you. Now tell me who gave you the right to do all this?" Zion asked.


    "They are lesser, we are the chosen of god. Those that believe otherwise are lesser," He spoke back.


    Zion wanted to smack him and he did, "A god who tells you to kill another because he believe in another is no god. All life is sacred. I am annoyed, do not push your faith on another. If you have disagreement, debate, try to solve it civilized." Zion kicked the guy.


    "Idiots."


    Zion was pissed off as he could see all their crimes, all that was proudly telecast. He had pages on each and everyone of them and he had the right to decide their crime.


    "All of you have chosen to take life, to infringe on others rights. So, I shall do the same. All of you shall be executed before the mass now. I am a believer but I got no mercy for you." Zion turned waved his hand, and fire ignited on all of them.


    Flash tried to save them but the flame moved as if they were alive and burned all. Even the wind and water couldn''t extinguish the flames of suffering and hate. The cries of horror and pain and suffering echoed across the countries, birthing a new fear in all that watched. They saw what the being on the highest order could do and what he would do.


    Kara didn''t moved to even help, she watched them all burn without a waver in her heart. She had learned of horrors that humans committed with she learned of earth and she didn''t have pity for them. She stood behind Zion on this execution.


    Zion turned back to the camera, "The only reason some of you are left alive is because I can kill you anytime I want. Do not even think for a moment you hold power to escape my grasp. I am coming for all of you, every single one of you.


    And Gotham is first on my list."


    Zion closed the broadcast with that statement.

 59 - Gotham

    Gotham...


    Gotham is a black page...


    Gotham is a black page you write on white font...


    It is the first line... of the last story... you''ll ever write...


    Gotham...


    A city of contradictions.


    A place where beauty and brutality exist side by side, where the gleaming facades of wealth and power hide the rot that lies beneath.


    Gotham is dark, gritty, corrupt, a city plagued by crime, poverty, and urban decay. It is a reflection of the worst aspects of a modern city, with its skyline dominated by looming skyscrapers and smog, and its streets filled with crime and violence. Despite its outward appearance of modernity, Gotham is rife with hidden corruption and sinister secrets lurking beneath the surface.


    Despite its pervasive darkness, for every criminal that stalks these streets, there are a hundred more who dare to dream of a better tomorrow. For every act of cruelty, there are countless acts of kindness and compassion that go unnoticed. Gotham may be a city that breeds darkness, but it is also a city that nurtures hope. a city of resilience and hope, with its citizens banding together in the face of adversity and its heroes tirelessly fighting to make it a better place.


    As was the founders vision,


    Pinkney saw his designs as an organic whole, almost a living being that would itself fight against evil. Gargoyles to frighten people onto the path of righteousness; rounded edges to confuse malevolent beings; thick walls to lock in virtue. It also had many elevated walkways, with some buildings connected to each other in such a way as they could not stand alone.


    Yet now, the city was the breading ground for crime.


    But I refuse to believe that Gotham is beyond redemption. I refuse to accept that darkness will always triumph over light.


    Will you join my purpose?


    Yours truly, Zion.


    Meet you at the location.


    ...


    This was the letter Batman received that night after Zion''s announcement.


    He had watched the whole telecast, he saw Zion''s anger and power. Zion, a force unequaled, a power undefeated, even by Superman, a problem he couldn''t solve.


    A boy from nowhere had grown to a powerhouse that governed the world in a matter of a month. Sometimes he wished he had not been so cautious. He had been too cautious, too tight. He wished he had taken the guy down, but he doubted he was capable.


    The boy had left crumbed for him to follow, keep his wits about him. The singularity. One who knows of the future of this world. This made him want to know, the secrets of that night, where Batman was born.


    However the results were not bad as he thought they would be. The wars around the world had ended. A silent peace was brought. The world was now focused on him, his power and how to defeat this new order. The forces hidden would not stop, but their ignorance had already cost them of their freedom.


    As Batman, he saw Gotham gone silent, of fear and a different silence, a expectant silence mostly from those that hoped. The criminals were silent, too silent. They were preparing, preparing to fight or die. While some escaped, while some understood that the force was not to be trifled with, that this was not Batman, not human.


    Nion was a different, he cared not much for humans, he cared not for the government or rules. He now controlled it all. He was above law, he was above rules.


    His powers still unexplained, his watch a mystery, an unexplainable technology.


    Batman was still formulating, forming a plan in case Zion turn dark. But he could see no light to that problem and today he would meet back. Not with the boy who wanted money, but the force that governed the world.


    He was to meet with Nion.


    Batman stood at the high building, the winds ruffling his cape, the dark city below him. The Gargoyles hid is figure in the darkness.


    ["Gotham''s silent, peaceful. I can''t say that I don''t like some quiet."]


    "This is different, Alfred. This is a silence of fear," Batman replied.


    ["Isn''t that your moto?"]


    "..." Batman stayed silent.


    "You dress as a Bat to invoke fear, a fear similar..." A bionic voice spoke, leaving the sentence incomplete.


    Batman turned his head slightly, unflinched. "You are here."


    "I am," Zion answered as he walked from the shadow.


    He stood next to Batman at the edge, his hand on the gargoyles and looking down at the city and its people. The neon signs lit up the dark city in its light. People walking about with their hands to themselves, guarded, always in light. The people here were different, harder, stronger, more hopeful.


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    "A cursed city indeed," Nion remarked.


    "..." Batman remained silent.


    "No question?" Zion turned to Batman. "The dark knight has no questions? Hmm... suspicious."


    Batman glared at Zion...no wait, that was how he always looks. His lips drew thin, his eyes gazing deeply. Batman had question, but he need not ask them. Zion would answer it himself. His evaluation made him believe so. Zion always told the truth, but never the whole truth.


    Zion tilted his head, his visor displaying his disappointment. "__"


    "Okay, let''s go," Zion stated as he flicked his wrist.


    To the location a frame appeared on the space, blurring whats on the other side. This was Zion new mode of transport he calls "The Door". {TVS Time Door}


    "Shall we?" Zion gestured to the door.


    Batman grunted before walking through. He felt the spatial displacement and his ears ring at the pressure difference. His face felt the cold breeze and tasted the salt on the wind. They were now standing opposite the see, oppose to a large floating ice that was the Iceberg Lounge.


    Zion appeared through the door and kept walking toward the Iceberg. He crossed the bridge and stopped before the bouncer who stood menacingly. He smiled at the bouncer,£¨£þ¦á£þ£©.


    The bouncer glared back in full volume, his eyes not shaking in fear as one would expect. He just folded his arms and flexed his big muscles. It didn''t help that Zion was a head shorter than the man. Zion was expecting him to move the minute he showed up, after all he was the real thing in flesh.


    "Hmm... I am here to meet a flightless bird," Zion spoke, not knowing what to do.


    "Huff, Your outfit is really good. Nearly seems legit," Bouncer stated as he scanned Zion top to bottom. "Nice try but not today mate. If you don''t want to get killed, leave now."


    The bouncer gestured to the other side and saw three people in tuxedo knocked out to the side. Their suits looked very similar to the suit he wore this morning and the helmet was nearly looked legit but it was nearly advanced as his.


    "You kidding?" Zion was flabbergasted that someone would mimic him, who had that much gut. He then turned to the shadows, "How much gut do Gotham have ?"


    Batman walked out the shadow and the bouncer took a step back in fear. "Move." that was all he stated before the bouncer backed away. Nion was a new force that criminals of Gotham don''t understand. But Batman, Batman was their nightmare. He had instilled such fear that they feared moving shadows in the night.


    Zion looking at the scared bouncer and was annoyed. So, he picked him up with telekinesis and flung him into the sea.


    "Ha," He scoffed as he adjusted his cuff and walked into the Iceberg Lounge.


    Batman stayed silent as he followed Zion like a shadow and all the crooks who saw them moved away and hid. Some even ran out the Lounge. Zion walked into the hall uninterrupted, where a large artificial pool of penguins and seals with a small iceberg floating in the middle. The dinner an antarctic themed, a ship themed dance floor and tuxedo clad jazz band.


    The minute Zion and Batman stepped in, the floor went silent.


    All eyes, criminal, looked at Batman with vengeance, then their eyes turned to the guy next. Their brains took time to process and when it came to conclusion of this new person, most turned their head avoid contact.


    Zion looked at all the familiar faces. Two-face, Black mask, Rupert Thorne, Riddler, Mad hatter, even dancing Harley Quinn. Zion looked up to the second floor and saw Penguin in his private Lounge. His visor smiled.


    "Come down, flighless bird," Zion commanded. ©d(¨R¨Œ¨Q*)o "I would rather speak to all of you at once than go one by one."


    Penguin didn''t look exactly scared, a bit arrogant. He didn''t seem to be moving as his three assistants pulled three freezing guns.


    "So a bird wants to fight?" Zion took a step forward, flames bursting forth from him.


    A claw formed from the flamed and ripped the wall between Penguin and his death like paper. The trio of assistants tried to use the freeze gun to fight the flame, however the Telekinesis was faster. The guns were atomized and three were merged with the wall.


    Zion put his hands in his pocket and taped the floor lightly, instantly causing all that stood to kneel. Zion was putting the minor percentage of mind on their. The difference of weight came down like a Dragon''s fear.


    They all felt suffocated as if they were being chocked. A breath of air was a struggled. Their ears rung, their body shivered, and some even fainted, foaming.


    Zion turned back to Penguin. The fat short man with pinocchio nose was burned but he was alive. He pulled him out of his cottage and hanged him before him. Zion leaned his head and looked into Penguins eyes as his visor displayed an amicable smile.


    "Be welcoming, I am here as a guest," Nion bionic voice rung in each crooks head.


    He straightened and walked around the struggling bird. He met the eyes of every single one, he was taking account, taking a bit to consider kill them all here or not. It was a hard choice, not only Mark scolded him for killing those terrorist, that guy had lectured him for a whole hour before he was let go.


    He forgot that Mark would be watching, then he saw people condemning him for telecasting such horrifying scene and scaring their children. He couldn''t do anything about the murderous intent he had when being Nioz, it a builtin function of the Burning Martians.


    Burning Martians live for terror. They are embodiment of suffering and anguish and Nioz was his Humungousaur. It was his Superman. his plot armor. It was his powerful transformation with many added ability.


    "I know all your crimes, I know of every single thing you have done, and my instinct says to burn you all alive," Nion stated as he walked around the hall, looking at the struggling crooks.


    "But not today, a good brother of mine had asked me to forgive, to give you maggots a chance. So, what you say?" Zion stopped as all the crooks got lifted by their neck.


    They clawed their neck to be released from the grip but not one could shatter the TK hold.


    "Do you desire freedom of choice or Hell''s inferno?" He asked as all struggled to breath. "Not going to give me answer?"


    He questioned while not allowing them to speak. The crooks couldn''t even breath, much could they answer him.


    "Nion," Batman spoke, his voice grim. "Let them down."


    No one needed  to point, Batman was ready to fight.


    "Okay," Nion released them.


    The crooks fell to the floor gasping for air as they felt their ability to breath return. They had felt a true horror of death grazing them as their body demanded for air to live on. It will be something that will be engraved in their mind. Death was not something trifle to be forgotten.


    "I want you all surrendered in GCPD tomorrow morning but I hope you all don''t surrender easily," Nion stated with a excited tone, he was truly enjoying this. "I hope you fight the authority. I very much like squashing bugs."


    The criminals couldn''t see but they felt in their senses. This was a game to this guy, a sadistic game where they would be the one to lose.


    Zion turned from them and walked out of The Iceberg Lounge, leaving the criminals sprawled around. Zion arrived out exactly when the bouncer was walking towards them, shivering in cold. Zion caught him with his telekinesis and threw him again.


    "You were about to kill them," Batman spoke as he strode behind Zion.


    "Was I, Pennyworth?" Zion asked.


    ["Probably, sir"]


    "Probably," Zion replied as another Door opened. "I am here to clean the city of its rats and if the rats are going to give me trouble, I would rather end them now than wait for them to breed and bite back." Zion stated as he walked through.


    Batman followed.


    And they booth arrived before a gothic metal gate that came straight out of horror movie. Above the gate was the metal letter spelling, "Arkham Asylum".

 60 - Arkham

    Arkham...


    The House of Horror...


    The Breeding Ground for Chaos...


    The party house of the criminally insane...


    Contained within its walls were the not-so-normal, the ones that Gotham never wanted to see the light of the day. Those who struck fear into civilians with just their names. Those who not created immense horror and feared no Batman.


    But not all confined within chose their path.


    Some were just simply insane.


    Nion and Batman walked through the dark and eerie garden of the gothic structure that loomed in the shadows. Many gargoyles sat high above, gazing malevolently below, light flickering in and out, barred windows keeping the desperate in and tall, sharp towers giving it an unwelcoming feeling. Nion led Batman through the familiar atmosphere.


    "This place is too gloomy," Nion began. "And you wonder why they keep breaking out. Even a normal person would go mad here. Gotham really needs a makeover; it''s too dark to give birth to light."


    Nion turned to Batman. "Well, except for a few, of course."


    "Gotham is not entirely dark," Batman stated as he continued walking.


    "Says the Dark Knight," Nion remarked with irony. "It is true, but you are different. Gotham is a bit difficult, but it could be better."


    "What are you planning, Nion?" Batman questioned, his gaze turning to Nion.


    He couldn''t see his face, but he could discern from the micro-expressions. Nion was speaking like someone with a goal in mind, trying to guide him toward the same end. And he didn''t like that.


    "Nothing much, just a bit of reconstruction," Nion shrugged and kept walking.


    Batman glared as he followed. "Explain."


    Nion didn''t turn, but he answered, "As I said, this city is too dark. I want to change it from the foundation. I want to rebuild it from scratch into a better city, a city full of opportunity and hope."


    "A show of power," Batman commented, not easily fooled.


    At this stage, Nion was only a singular force. Even though the government feared him for his powers, they wouldn''t sit still. Those at the top had held too much power for too long; they wouldn''t let anyone dethrone them.


    Nion also hadn''t tightened his grip on the laws, leaving enough loose ends for them to exploit. They were all biding their time, gathering genius minds to take him down. Toppling him would give them control of the entire planet, one that will be accepted by people and the veil will be lifted for ever.


    A singular force, but also the biggest target.


    Nion smiled. "Kind of."


    "It won''t be easy," Batman replied.


    "It never is. Change is always opposed, for better or worse. But I wanted to talk to you about it. I thought you might resist change, be a bit reluctant to be controlled," Nion stated his concern.


    "All I fight for is the peace of this city, to end crime," Batman said. "I don''t care if it''s me or someone else who achieves it."


    "Yet you can''t end crime, Batman., but you can control it," Nion said as they arrived before the entrance to Arkham. "So, you can continue running in your Halloween costume."


    Two people were waiting for them, one female and one male. The woman had fair skin and brown hair tied in a bun. She wore a professional white coat and held a white tablet in her hand. Her eyes showed determination and resilience.


    The man had a stern expression as he stood next to her, with short-cropped grey hair and a mustache. He wore his police jacket over his normal shirt and jeans. Dark circles under his eyes and a wrinkled forehead suggested he frowned too much.


    "Thank you for waiting, Dr. Young and Commissioner Gordon," Nion extended his hand to Dr. Young.


    Dr. Young shook it with a polite smile, and Commissioner Gordon just gave a firm shake without a word. Nion didn''t mind their behavior; they were still figuring out how to treat him. It''s not every day they meet the man at the top.


    "I think we better finish what I came for; I don''t want to waste time," Nion stated as he walked through the open door.


    The reception was... normal. There was a receptionist sitting at her computer, a few guards and nurses walking around. The whole place was brightly lit with many chairs for people to rest. He even saw few patients happily having a conversation.


    Nion had expected a more deserted and gloomy place.


    "This way, sir," Dr. Young stated as she gestured to the elevator.


    Stolen story; please report.


    Nion followed her into the elevator with Gordon and Batman. The doctor then flashed her card and pressed the button for the lower floor.


    "The dangerous ones were kept underground for better security," Dr. Young stated.


    The elevator smoothly arrived at a floor below, and Dr. Young took the lead.


    "The people you are here for are on this floor," Dr. Young stated as she looked at her tablet.


    "What about the floor below?" Nion asked, but then he realized, "No need, I know."


    Dr. Young turned but didn''t speak, so Nion continued. "I think I could cure most, if not all, of them here of their fractured minds. The human psyche is really weak, easily broken with enough stress. But I can''t say that for all."


    Dr. Young turned, seeming reluctant to speak.


    "You can ask your questions, Dr. Young," Nion stated. "I won''t take offense when someone seeks knowledge."


    "Thank you, sir," Dr. Young replied before asking her question. "Does your species deal with psychology?"


    "Mine? Yes, all of us are telepaths. Our minds are always touching another''s, but of course, we are not exempt from crimes. However, we easily catch the criminal. It''s not so easy to hide when your mind is literally connected to everyone around you," Nion answered.


    "Are all of you part of a hive mind?" Dr. Young inquired.


    "No, we are just partially connected," Nion replied.


    "So, you think you can cure people here of their problems?" Dr. Young asked.


    "I can," Nion answered. "The mind is like an empty glass. You become what you fill it with or when it breaks from all that was pushed inside. I should be able to remove it or, shall I say, restore it to default."


    "Would you mind giving a demonstration?" Dr. Young asked.


    Her goal was to help the patients in Arkham Asylum. Her determination to this cause gave her strength to look into the abyss.


    "I don''t mind," Nion answered, "But let''s finish my business."


    "Okay," Dr. Young agreed and led them through the hall.


    Nion had already seen a few people he recognized in the cells that had passed: Calendar Man, Scarecrow, and some others. The cells were separated by a distance to keep them isolated. But the one he was here for was in a specialized cell.


    Nion could already feel the cold seeping from the distance.


    They finally arrived at the cell of the wanted person, Dr. Victor Fries, or Mr. Freeze. His whole cell was covered in ice, with its temperature below freezing. The man could not survive in room temperature. But Nion was not here for the villain but the genius cryogenist.


    "It''s nice to meet you, Dr. Fries," Nion spoke, drawing the man''s attention from carving ice.


    The blue man turned to glance at his visitors. He scanned each face but failed to recognize Nion. His cell didn''t have a TV, not that he was not allowed to, but for security reasons.


    "Who are you?" Dr. Fries asked, recognizing that Batman had accompanied the small man.


    "I am Nion, currently the governor of Earth," Nion stated. "And I am here to make an offer."


    "Governor of Earth? Sure that you are not one of us?" Freeze spoke with sarcasm.


    "Well, I am. You can ask these three," Nion pointed to Batman.


    Victor turned to Batman, the man he trusted to tell the truth.


    "He is," Batman answered.


    "Hmm... fine. What is it that you want?" Victor asked.


    "Easy, you working for me," Nion stated.


    "What do I get in return?" Victor asked.


    "Freedom, money, and a high-tech lab to continue your research," Nion answered.


    "Good offer, but what''s the catch?" Victor was an intelligent man.


    "Actually, nothing much. You will probably assist me in my research and exploration. Your biology allows you to survive in places where life would not," Nion explained, "And I would like a man like yourself on the right side for once."


    Victor remained silent, contemplating the offer. The offer was too good to be true, but if he would get funding to continue his research, then he was more than willing to accept. He needed to cure his wife; there was no more important goal.


    "Well, I might as well add a cherry on top," Nion spoke. "I can cure your wife, Nora. I have the technology to do so."


    Victor looked at Nion for any signs of falsehood, but he couldn''t see his face. But even with his suspicion, he decided.


    "I trust that you will keep your word," Victor replied.


    Nion smiled. "Good."


    He then turned to Dr. Young. "You can return his suit to him. I will remove him from your hands." He then turned to Victor. "I will come back after I meet with the other person I came to meet."


    Victor nodded.


    Dr. Young tapped on her tablet and instructed the nurse and guard through the comms. She then guided the trio further into the facility. Nion saw Joker and Killer Croc during this part of the walk. Joker was, of course, frantic when he saw Batman and went into his usual dialogue, but Croc was silent.


    Then they arrived at their location.


    Nion looked in and saw a green-skinned woman in her hospital clothes just lying on her bed, swirling her red hair. Her seductive figure was visible even through the loose clothes. Nion leaned and knocked on the glass.


    She turned her head and looked at the visitors with disdain. "What do I owe the pleasure, Batman?"


    "..." Batman didn''t answer her.


    "I am here to talk," Nion jumped in.


    "Who are you?" Ivy questioned.


    "Someone who can get you out of here," Nion answered.


    "How would you do that?" She asked with slight interest.


    "Well, first, I have the power to. Second, I have the power to," Nion answered in two different tones, first nonchalant, second confident.


    "A powerful man... But what do you want with me?" She asked.


    "Your expertise in Herbology," Nion answered.


    "That can be given, but my service is pricey," Ivy spoke as she got up from the bed and walked to the glass.


    Each of her movements tugged at one''s heartstrings, but none here would fall for it.


    "I can afford it," Nion replied.


    "Well then, why don''t you release me first? We can talk about our business face to face without this wall," Ivy spoke, pressing her body against the glass.


    "Fine," Nion stated and turned to Dr. Young. "Open the door."


    "Are you sure?" Dr. Young asked.


    "Yep," Nion confirmed.


    Dr. Young then tapped on her tablet and swiped her card, opening the door that separated them from Ivy. Ivy saw that the door had opened and walked out with her hips swaying hypnotically. She then walked to Nion and leaned closer, pushing her body against his.


    "Why don''t you remove that helmet? So, we can have the conversation face to face," Ivy suggested in a very alluring tone.


    "Sorry," Nion replied.


    "Why? Do you think I would judge you based on looks?" Ivy asked, again in a very alluring yet toxic tone.


    "Not for looks, but for this." Nion pulled out a syringe and stabbed Ivy.


    Ivy jumped back in shock, her hands covering her neck. She had a very high immunity, so she knew she would not die.


    "It''s a very powerful... agent," Nion noted. "Sleep well; we''ll talk back at my place."


    Finishing his sentence, he waved his hand to open the door, and Ivy just fell into it and vanished. The door was connected to his city, where she would be kept for research purposes.


    "Where did you send her?" Batman asked.


    "To my place," Nion answered. "She will be fine," he assured.


    "..." Batman glared silently.


    Nion shrugged and took the road back. He watched the patients and arrived at Joker''s cell, who was still pressing his face against the glass.


    "Batsy, I knew you wouldn''t forget about your best buddy," he smiled creepily.


    Nion frowned, and Joker slammed into the back wall.

 61 - Sanity

    Nion calmly looked at Joker and his straining smile.


    His face stoic under the mask with his visor going full black and his hands in his pocket. The man with the highest authority on the planet was standing still as he gazed at one chaotic mind. Batman and Gordon couldn''t move to stop him.


    They understood they couldn''t stop him.


    The time seem to be at a stand still as Nion entered Jokers mind.


    With his touch on the mind, he churned the chaotic landscape of insanity. Nion could immediately tell that this mind was not right, at least compared to his. This mind was... broken, shattered even.


    The mind was like a broken glass, one that was smashed by a hammer. The pieces were everywhere, some pieces even shattered beyond recognition, some forever lost into the oblivion.


    Nion waved his hand, controlling all that chaos to something interactable. The chose churned and condensed into a room with multiple book shelves, about thirty, each a twelve division. But most were in disarray, with books sprawled on the ground, ripped pages scattered about. Some shelves even toppled and shattered.


    But some were intact, had books that were neatly arranged.


    Nion lifted a book near his foot. this one had a golden cover with plashes of red and blue paint. Nion could already tell that this book was missing few pages, even whole chapters. He opened the colorful book, and could see the memories within.


    He saw a women, an intellectual, a bit insane even. Her character, her eyes, her lips. He could tell who it was. He could tell what Joker was feeling. This was Harley Quinn''s first interaction with Joker and he was amused. Nion kept flipping the page, going through many memories, each different from other, their interaction in Arkham.


    How their twisted love bloomed.


    Nion flipped through until he found when Harleen turned to Harley.


    Nion looked as Joker dropped her into the chemical vat, one similar to one that turned him. But what Joker expected was someone similar to him, someone criminally insane. However, Harley was different, she was not fully gone.


    She didn''t have the desire to kill what she loved. He failed at creating another him.


    Nion closed the book as the rest were just lost days with many pages missing, or things that he care not to remember. Nion waved his hand, scanning through the many scattered pages and found once that belonged to the book. The pages flew into the book and merged themselves, completing the book.


    Nion reached and placed the fixed book back to the shelf and turned to one of the shelves that was intact. He reached for one with black hard cover. He could already tell whose memory this was about. He opened the book and saw Batman punching.


    This was one of the many punches he received.


    Nion flipped through and saw many atrocities he had committed to attract Batman, once that were so clear and defined compared to Harley. He flipped through the pages and couldn''t help but want to not restrain his mind. HIs mind so vast and powerful, comparable to an ocean, letting it unrestrained would leave Joker vegetable.


    However, he controlled himself from burning the mind and he placed the book back.


    He then scanned the books and lifted them all with telekinesis before he restored the torn pages. The many pages flew back to their own book, torn pages mended together and attached themselves. The books were repaired one by one, some completely, some not. The shelves and years of his life before were put back together as they were the more damaged ones.


    The torn pieces were put back together, broken psyche completed.


    Nion wasn''t even caring for the mental immune system trying to fight him, but a powerful mind like his could not be even graced by a human mind.


    However, Nion couldn''t fully say that joker would be sane. The mind was too damaged for that, he couldn''t heal the broken mind, it needed time to fix itself.


    Nion pulled himself out, now out looking at Joker who no longer had a crazed smile but a weird tranquility. He doesn''t seem to be responsive, if not for Nion still keeping his force, he would have fallen.


    Nion released his grip, letting the man fall to the floor. He then turned to the worried looking Dr. Young, "His mind is in order, but its still fragile. I locked most of his memories as they would cause his mind to collapse again. I hope that you will be able to rehabilitate him before his execution."


    "Execution?" Gordon intervened before Dr. Young could.


    Nion turned slowly, stating undeniable facts, "Yes, execution. I will be implementing new laws that are more strict with harder punishments. So, execution is in order for most criminals, insane or not."


    "That''s~" Gordon didn''t know what to say.


    How could he? How could anyone? He knew all that Joker did. How many times this maniac killed? How many times he had made people suffer for his amusements? How many families had he orphaned? Gordon couldn''t for the right of him even argue. Moreover, he wanted the guy gone.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    "What!? Sorry, I got no sassy morality and redemption. And you have given him more than enough chances," Nion stated as he turned to Batman with a smirk, "I hope you won''t disobey the law. After all, you fight for justice, so does the government."


    "..." Batman just had his usual glare.


    "I know that you have no killing code, Batman. However, I can''t take on that code, I have a planet to manage and killing pest is the only option," Nion stated and turned to Dr. Young. "On that note, I have also fixed most if not all your patients. However, they all would need rehabilitation.


    Sorry for making your schedule busy."


    Nion was not only browsing though the mind of Joker, but of all the patients in the asylum. They human mind was such a simple and complicated thing. Fixing it was easy but hard at the same time. So, time would reveal the results.


    It took time for Dr. Young to understand Nion''s statement. When she finally did, "No, no, I should thank you. If they return back to their family normal, that all I wanted," Dr. Young replied, a small smile and relief in her eyes.


    "You are welcome," Nion stated.


    "Well, can you explain what your thought on human mind from your experience?" Dr. Young inquired.


    She wanted to learn more and understand more.


    Nion answered many other questions she had about human mind. They both conversed about how the treatment to these patients could be implemented as they walked back to Freeze''s cell. Nion saw that Freeze was already ready in his cryo-suit. He hen pointed to the side and a door opened.


    "Go through this, it will take you to your hideout," Nion stated, "People will come to assist you with your wife''s retrieval."


    "How do you know of my hideout? Its not even known to my closest associates," Mr. Freeze remarked.


    "Dude, I know where Ivy''s underwear is. Don''t question me of things," Nion stated, his words of answer causing Freeze to lift a brow. But Freeze decided to not question and walked through the door and  it closed behind him.


    Nion then turned to Dr. Young, "Then I will take my leave, I don''t want to bother you anymore."


    "Allow me walk you out, please," Dr. Young stated.


    Nion stopped her, "No need, Dr. Young. Take rest for the day, you will need it." Nion then turned to Batman, "Lets go."


    Nion flicked his hand and a door appeared next to him. Nion moved to cross but stopped before the door and turned to Gordon. "Gordon, do not waste police force on trying to capture criminals. I have given them an option and I really, really, hope they don''t take it."


    Nion didn''t wait for Gordon to answer and walked through the door, leaving him silent. Batman turned to Gordon and gave his a nod of content before walking through the door. Batman crossed the door and felt his ears again pop due to the pressure difference.


    They were now in a dark place, one that was familiar to Batman. Batman scanned the dark cave and found Zion sitting on his scheming table with a juice in his hand.


    "Would you like some refreshments, Sir?" Alfred asked with an empty tray.


    "No need, Alfred," Batman replied.


    "I understand, sir," Alfred turned to Nion, "Would you like anything else, sir?"


    "No need, Alfred," Nion replied as he chucked the rest of the juice. "I need to go home and get some sleep."


    Alfred received the glass and gave a comment, "At least one of you have a regular sleeping cycle."


    "I know," Nion commented as a door opened next to him, "Good night, Alfred. Maybe I will allow you to execute Joker."


    "I would very much appreciate it, sir," Alfred commented as Nion walked through the door.


    Alfred then walked up nonchalantly as they both didn''t just casually talk about allowing the butler to kill his one hated person.


    Batman just looked at the Alfred''s vanishing shadow. He then turned and sat on his bat-computer, he didn''t want to start a conversation on that. He then surfed through and open a video and audio live. He had left his devices in Iceberg Lounge when the others were dying.


    "What is the plan?" A voice very familiar to him.


    "What? You want to fight him?" Another voice rebuked.


    "We can, with enough power," Another answered.


    "So, what''s the plan?" The first voice asked.


    "We lay low for now and bid our time," the voice answered.


    "You want us to surrender!"


    "Yes, but we can just walk out of the jail. Just kept the streets clean for now," the other voice said.


    Batman listened in on their conversation, the big bads were not here, these were the low level thugs. The Big Bads were having their own little meeting on how to deal with the new situation. But Batman was sure that they will try to find the best way to avoid punishment, by claiming insane.


    ["¡ð( £ÞÃó£Þ)¤Ã Hehehe¡­"]


    Batman looked at the message, a smile try to creep to his smile. Batman was justice in the corrupt system, but if the system would rise to smite injustice, he could only follow. He still held his no killing rule, but he always let the system decide the punishment, he was not above system.


    So, this was not against his code.


    "How did the conversation go?" A voice asked as Robin appeared out of nowhere.


    The boy wonder was wearing the suit Zion had given. He had grown to like the feeling of ease, especially that ability to cloak.


    Batman didn''t turn, but spoke, "You are getting dependent on the suit. When the suit fails, you will be defenseless."


    "I only use it to scare the crooks, the unseen works better," Robin replied as he removed his mask.


    Batman turned to Robin, "It is better to hone your skill."


    Robin wanted to speak but he swallowed his words, "Okay."


    ["No need to removed the suit, you can just turn it off. "]


    ["At least it will give him a way out in tough situation"]


    Batman didn''t need to turn, he could tell Z.A.I was always listening. He was the greatest detective, others might not fully realize but he did. Z.A.I was already monitoring all of Gotham, included in his globe consciousness.


    "Fine, I will allow it," Batman relented.


    Robin smiled, "But what about the conversation?"


    Batman turned back to the computer, "Nion gave a chance for the criminals to surrender."


    "If not?" Robin asked, yet he didn''t need an answer.


    Everyone on Earth knew that answer.


    Batman stayed silent for a moment before stating, "Joker will be executed, so will other criminals of his caliber."


    "Really?" Robin sounded even a bit happy, but he quickly realized, "But they will not get their chance to change."


    "We do not fight the system, Robin," Batman stated, "We fight to protect the people. If criminal''s death won''t change a person, I don''t see the path to redemption."


    [''And I am sure, sir Zion knows what he is doing. He already gave Victor and Ivy a way out.'']


    "Wait, what did he give Freeze and Ivy?" Robin asked, he was out of loop here.


    "Victor was offered a cure and job, while she received a similar offer, I do not know about Ivy''s situation," Batman answer.


    "You don''t? Its very rare for you to not know," Robin stated.


    Batman went silent, his face hardened.


    Yes, it was very rare for him to not know anything or get involved. So, from when was he okay with not knowing? From when he was okay with just knowing the context and not dig deeper? Batman frowned at that realization.


    ''Since when?''


    ["Who knows"]


    ["X©nX"]

 62 - Law and order

    The next morning,


    Nion appeared in all televisions at the early hour of 10 o''clock. He awoke many people from their slumber and disrupted most of the peoples work as all had to stop to watch.


    How could they not?


    The King of Earth had caused too much chaos every time he appeared. First time he appeared, he took over the whole planet, second he established himself as the King of the Earth, third he torched hundred live on television.


    Every single time it was always something Major.


    Nion appeared sitting on his crystal throne, fitting for the King. He was wearing his usual suit and helmet that kept his identity concealed. The man sat leisurely as he was here to ask people how their day was but their was a hidden authority within his stature.


    Who dares to question a King if he wants to lay flat on his throne?


    "Hello, people of Earth," Nion stated, "As I have stated on my last telecast, I have taken it upon myself to clean the city of Gotham."


    Nion shifted and took a more serious pose, "I have gone through the details of the city and have decided to take control. I have said that I will not be implementing or changing any law anytime soon, but your Systemic infrastructure is pathetic.


    So, I will be implementing My Law.


    It will start with the city of Gotham before moving to other cities across US before moving to other countries. Do not worry, I am only trying to make it so the civilians could live freely withing their Rights.


    And, from today onward, Gotham will be under my direct vision.


    These are the changes that will be implemented immediately and will only apply to Gotham for the period. Let''s start with small things,


    First, Laws. All laws will be revised to make it gender neutral. No gender will be exempted from protection and punishment. All will be treated equally. These laws will also branch into the section of Marriage and such, But we will come to it a bit later.


    Second, Harsher punishments for the crimes. Criminals with extensive record of crime will be given death penalty, no questions asked. Even if plead insane, you have had the chance, but no more terrorizing the people.


    The sentences for crimes such as Terrorism, murder, rape, abuse, and such will be increased. And people under the attempted crime will be given punishment as for the crime committed. The punishment for the Attempted Murder will not be less than for Murder. You just failed, that doesn''t mean you are not guilty.


    Third, Weapons permit. Under the Law, all citizens are allowed to carry concealed firearm and given authority to defend yourselves from criminals. You are also allowed to carry pocket knife no longer than 4 inches and it should be sheathed.


    You have the right to defend yourselves, use it well.


    Fourth, Health. All health services will be free from today onward. This rule includes the private hospitals. The separate clinics may charge their patients but if its not withing regular and affordable price, your license will be revoked. If you only deliver your services to the rich, your license will be revoked.


    Treat all life equally, I will be paying your salary.


    Fifth, Education. Education from kindergarten to High School will be free. All that have owed dept under education will be relived of such dept. We educate to create a better society, not chain it down.


    The curriculum for the education will be under my supervision and no gender studies will ever be conducted in school. The teenagers can''t even figure what they are going to eat tomorrow. If any protest were to happen regarding this law, or any attempt of going behind me. I will put you all in jail for eternity. I mean it.


    Sixth, Elections. No candidate will henceforth allowed to accept donations or any other fund or services from any type of organization. The Candidates will be given a specific amount by the government and you will only be allowed to use in in your campaign. If you think that this is not fair or that you can''t, you are clearly not suited for the job.


    And all candidates will be chosen by my algorithm. No more mouth chewing politicians, only those that are capable will be elected. This means, the candidates will be independent and will have no inclination to favor any organization and will do their job justly.


    Seventh, legal age of adulthood. Male and Female above 18 will be considered adults but that doesn''t mean you kick them out. You help them with getting a job and gain a financial independence before letting them go. I don''t want an increase of homeless teenagers in my Empire. Take care of your children, it is your responsibility to make them an adult, not society.


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    What are we, your child care?


    Eighth, Abortion. Abortion will be only be conducted in a consent of both parents involved. No woman shall abort the baby on her own and in situation that father wants to have the baby, the woman shall agree. The Father then will take care of the woman until she gives birth and she shall cut all ties with both of them.


    In case the woman wants to have the baby, but is in need of help. You can go to one of the hospitals and they will assist you with everything.


    Yeah, Yeah, and if both parents agree and the baby is aborted. Both parents will be arrested and charged of Murder. Sorry, got to keep the laws. If you don''t want to be in this kind of situation, keep it shut.


    Ninth, Shelters. There will be multiple shelters that will be opened across Gotham. It will also be directly monitored by me. Those who need help and think that the authorities can''t handle it, you can go there. You will be given protection and housing until the situation is resolved.


    Ten, Tax. Tax laws will be revised and reduced to keep the economy safe and lessen the burden on civilians. Those that have been exempt form specific tax laws will be met and charged for their crimes. Mostly. the central currency will be changed to credits. These changes will be immediate and their value will be managed by me alone.


    So, don''t worry about inflation.


    Those will accounts or balance your can still use the currency in your pockets. You can exchange them for credits in your nearest banks. Do not worry, this change will be gradual, do not rush to the banks and crowd it.


    Eleventh, Divorce. I am can''t believe that I would have to talk about this. Sorry, how hard is for you idiots to keep a marriage? The statistic is laughable for a species. Again, The laws will be gender neutral and fair to all.


    First of it all is the criminal charge for Paternity Fraud. You will be charged for at least one year of prison sentence and you will be asked to do public service for the next. I never thought I will be creating a law like this, God what have I come to.


    Second, in Divorce. The spouses have not inclination to financially support the other. In case you have a child, the spouse is to only support the child. Child support will only for the child and not the spouse. You are responsible adult, you don''t need to depend on others to take care of you.


    In case of cheating, the cheater will not be given the child, period. You had the time to get divorce. In case of abuse, the spouse is to pay for the therapy, but also will be jailed. This goes both ways, so be careful.


    This law shall be applied to all, to those before this law and after.


    Twelfth.''


    Nion got up from his seat and the camera followed him. Nion then stood before a giant humanoid robot that dwarfed him. The 10 foot tall giant looked menacing as it looked to the camera.


    "This guy here is a Sentinel. They will be deployed to Gotham to assist the police. They will each pair will an officer forming a team, each complementing the other in their unique way. These guy are the top of my tech and have the power of an army.


    They will patrol the street of Gotham and keep it safe. If you every need help, you can ask them. They are your friendly neighborhood Sentinels."


    Nion then turned th camera and showed a whole army of them standing outside his window.


    "Yeah, that''s it I think?" Nion scratched. "Oh wait, No animal cruelty, you will be charged with murder."


    Nion closed the telecast with those words, leaving all that heard baffled. They were expecting many thing, yet their brains took time to comprehend. The minute it finally did, some freaked as Nion just announced his full take over of the nations.


    He was no longer a singular force that had no grip on the world.


    While some were freaking out, the press from all around got ready to depart to Gotham, for their take on the cover story. One of such was the daily planet. Perry got ready to send his best journalist, Clark and Lois. He quickly contacted them both and gave them the cover story.


    ...


    Nion sat back on his throne as the background behind him changed. The army of Sentinels vanished leaving about five hundred standing.


    He didn''t have an army of Sentinels.


    Each Sentinel was an advance automaton, they were capable of many things. But this advance tech took too much of his treasury to make. He also had other projects running, each was for a different future. He was preparing for Wars while he had peace. He couldn''t be like the Justice League and fight the threat when it came knocking on his door.


    Yes, he was more than capable of dealing with such threats, but what it the point of having knowledge and not use it.


    "Share my thanks to Hiro," Nion stated as he got up. "He really did good work with this one."


    ["I already did"] Z.A.I replied. ["Should I send the Sentinels through."]


    "Not yet, I will meet with Gordon first," Nion stated. "What about the others?" Nion inquired.


    ["Victor is still adjusting to his new body. The kid is a bit shaken."]


    ["Barda and Scott are settled down. She asked to meet with you."]


    ["The Martians are still a bit skeptical, but they are adapting. J''emm is being a good King and J''onnz is assisting him with the political pressure."]


    ["But, what are we to do with our prisoners?"]


    Nion turned, "We got prisoners?!"


    ["Yes, we do"]


    Nion didn''t answer and quickly browsed the files to find the prisoner list. He saw the faces, especially Lex Luthor and Steve Trevor, and some of the grunts he found useful. They were captured at the start of the War and they were still locked in prison.


    ["What are we to do with them?"]


    "Haa, I will deal with them," Nion closed the screen and turned.


    ["You going down there?!"]


    "Yeah?" Nion arched a brow.


    ["Nothing, Lois called for a ride. She want to go to Gotham for cover."]


    "Oh," Nion flicked and a Door opened. "I will go meat her, you take care of the prisoners."


    Nion didn''t wait and walked through.


    ["(£þ c£þ)\ =3 "] Z.A.I sighed a breath of relief, and wiped the virtual sweat.


    ["I can''t let him meet Gilotina. She ticks all his boxes and that could go very wrong."]


    Z.A.I was grateful that Zion doesn''t actively remember everything. The partial memory was the one that keeping him sane and safe. That is exactly the reason he was attracted to Kara. She was cold and hot at the same time, but Gilotina was Hot and Cold. He can''t let his friend fall for a woman who only knows how to kill, and she was way older.


    {Too much time waste on Character growth. I don''t see the path to a good story.}


    Z.A.I quickly reassigned the files, he needed to take care of the Prisoner problem. He also contacted Barda to deal with the Furries.

 63 - Cover

    Lois looked at her watch, her foot tapping on the pavement.


    "We could have gone with the reporting team, Lois," A male voice spoke to her. "Perry insisted that we don''t delay."


    Lois turned to the tall man wearing thick glasses. The combed hair and big shirt making him seem like a nerd.


    "Clark, I understand Perry''s insistence, but just trust my judgment."


    "But we can''t-VRRRRRRRRRRRRMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM*


    An engine roar interrupted Clark. Both looked up to see a small car drifting through as it turned around the corner. The black MINI came straight for them, braked and drifted, parking itself before them. The smoked and the wind it was gather pushed against Clark and Lois, messing their hair up.


    The window then rolled and a familiar face peeked out.


    "Need a ride?" Zion asked.


    "You are late," Lois commented and walked to the passenger seat while Clark was forced to take the back. The big guy had to strain to get in a bit, the car was a bit small.


    "I apologize, I was a bit busy." Zion pulled the car to out, "Gotham, for cover."


    Lois put her seatbelt and pulled her note pad. "Yes, things are getting interesting in the city of brooding crime."


    Zion nodded and drove the car slowly though the packed road. Everyone was going everywhere. His small car was inconspicuous among the big one, especially the black and gold theme.


    "The new takeover really attracting much attention," Zion commented.


    "It is," Lois replied and turned to him, "I assume, you know many things."


    "Me? What would I know?" Zion smiled and looked at the rearview mirror. "I am just a normal guy, aren''t I, Clark?


    "Huh.." Clark flinched at the sudden question.


    "A normal guy who wears one of the most powerful devices on the planet," Lois stated. "You should know many things, Mr. Nion."


    Zion turned to Lois, he showed no surprised that Lois found his identity but a small smile. "How did you know? I though you were bad with secret identities."


    "Well, I don''t know anyone else who wears the same watch as yours." Lois pointed to the Omnitrix. "And it was easy to figure the identity when already you know the person."


    Zion looked to Clark, "Really?"


    Clark just returned a look that said, "Really?"


    "I didn''t become one of the best due to luck." Lois replied.


    Zion just shook his head, a laughter escaping his lips. "I think Clark would refute that claim. Don''t you, Clark?"


    "Well... She does miss clues here and there," Clark answered, trying to shift the attention, gaining a glare from Lois.


    "We will talk about that later, Clark. But Zion," Lois turned to Zion. "You won''t mind answering my questions in the place of Nion."


    "I don''t mind answering a friend," Zion replied, stopping at red.


    "So, you won''t give me an exclusive?" Lois asked.


    "Can''t," Zion answered. "If I did, you would have a target on your head."


    "I already have many with my exclusives with Superman," Lois commented. "On that note, do you know where Lex is? He has not made any appearance since your appearance."


    Zion pressed the accelerator, "He is imprisoned on Mars."


    Lois looked to Zion, her eyes sharp, "Keep him there."


    "You really hate the guy that much?" Zion asked jokingly.


    "He is an arrogant asshole," Lois stated.


    "No cursing, Lois," Zion stated. "But I understand you."


    Lois just shook her head, "So, why did you decided to take over the World?"


    Zion turned to her, "Who is asking? Lois or Ms. Lane."


    "Both," Lois answered.


    Zion turned right, looking at the civilians. "Funny thing, I wasn''t even planning to."


    Lois lifted a brow, "What do you mean?"


    Zion turned to Lois, "It wasn''t in my plan to conquer the world. It was mostly spur of the moment decision. I was only preparing to fight the invasion that was coming."


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    "Invasion, the ones who came out the portal," Lois pointed.


    She vividly remembered the night of meteor shower and the earth shaking battle. She was also the first to rush to the dock to get a coverage.


    "Yes," Zion answered. "I was preparing to fight them, and to fight a war, you need soldiers. I went to Mars to built my army then one led to another and now, I am the king of the earth."


    "Domino," Lois commented.


    Zion smiled, "Basically."


    "Why start with Gotham, not the whole world?" Clark asked from the back.


    "I don''t have enough force to do so," Zion answered. "I am alone on this."


    "What of your soldiers?" Lois asked, she had seen those giant humanoids blasting lasers.


    Zion shook his head. "They are a very advanced lifeforms and they don''t like violence, unless invoked. They like to just chill at home and I am not going to make them do something they don''t want to."


    "You care for them more than humans," Clark pointed.


    "I do," Zion agreed, he did care for them more. "They are socially advance than Humans and they are more capable than human. They don''t fight against each other or try to kill each other for a plot of land."


    "A peaceful yet powerful race," Lois simplified.


    "They are," Zion agreed. "They only fought in war because I asked them to and it was a needed help. Those Parademons would have collapsed cities and raided human for their flesh."


    "What happened to the guy you fought?" Lois asked.


    "He escaped," Zion tightened his grip on the steering wheel. "I was so close to ending him, an annoying idiot save him." Zion let out a loud breath, calming his annoyance.


    "You didn''t follow?" Lois asked.


    Zion shook his head, "Waste of time and he will return anyway. I see no point in chasing him."


    "He will return?" Clark asked, a bit urged.


    "Yes," Zion answered, "He will come for earth again, and again, until he is dead or he gets what he wants."


    "Which is?" Lois asked.


    "Dominion over all life form in the universe," Zion answered. "He is just annoying, let''s move on."


    Clark just leaned back in thought, while Lois looked at her notepad and turned to Zion. "Okay then, let me ask the questions I wanted to. Why harsher punishments?"


    "To invoke fear, harsher punishment means less would try to commit crime."


    "Death sentence."


    "For heinous crimes, sometime you got to compromise to keep your home safe."


    "Weapons permit."


    "Psychological deterrence, the possible retaliation will deter criminals from committing it."


    "I love free health care, but what of medical drugs? Will they be free?"


    "Not for now. I plan of taking that from private companies in the future. No one should profit from people dying," Zion answered as he took the direct road out of Metropolis.


    Lois nodded, "Why make education free? Don''t you think that people will appreciate it less since its free."


    "Maybe, but I am not making it free for those that want to laze around, but for people who want to grow," Zion increased the speed slowly.


    Lois just smiled, she was expecting that. "What about poverty then?"


    "People don''t need free food, they need opportunity to feed themselves."


    "Election."


    "Controlled. People will vote for those that will guide them to better future. When people know what a good leader looks like, they will recognize the bad once."


    "Legal age."


    "I don''t like how you all just kick your children out of your house thinking society would make them grownups. Grow up, we already got too many idiots on the street."


    "Abortion, I can''t say I am on that one. What if the girl was raped?"


    "I understand that this will be both burdening for the child and the Mother. So, she can. However, what in the case of just hooking up? I can''t allow people to just kill children because they wanted to enjoy themselves. They decided to have sex, so bear the responsibility."


    "But don''t you think that it will burden a women to bear the children in case the father wants the child?"


    "Didn''t they both agree to have sex? So why is it only woman who have the right to decided? Thought about that? It takes two to tango."


    "I got no comments, but I do like that the single mothers will get support. Next, Shelters and Sentinels."


    "Sentinels will be my main force here on earth. They will make sure that people are judged correctly and no innocent is punished. I am not going to make laws stricter without giving a way for a person to prove themselves.


    And, Shelters will function the same as any other shelter, but it is also for people who wants support but are afraid to ask. Police might need proof, but I don''t, my sentinels could find proof. There won''t be any worry over lack of response."


    "You deployed them yet?"


    Zion shook his head, "Not yet, I need to meet with Commissioner Gordon. The sentinels are mostly support for the police, they won''t take away their job. So, I need to be there when the assign the police officers."


    "You got many plans," Lois stated.


    "I do, always." Zion replied.


    "What do the people think?" Lois asked.


    "Isn''t that for you to find out?" Zion smiled. "I don''t need to worry about people hating me. People hate change, but I hope you show the true side of my cause."


    Lois made a contemplating face, "Which is?"


    "Justice always prevails," Zion quoted.


    They crossed the Welcome sign of Gotham, entering the Gothic monolith. The Lois might not have noticed due to how smooth the ride was, but Zion was breaking many speed limits.


    "Where do I drop you?" Zion asked.


    "Anywhere in the suburb," Lois replied. "We want to asked the citizens on their view of the matter. And again, I wanted to ask if you will give us protection."


    "Come on, you got a big man in the back," Zion joked.


    "Clark? I am sure he would faint at a bloody knife," Lois countered.


    Zion wiggled his eyebrows as he spoke, "You might not know who the hero is, your knight always accompanies in the shadow.." Zion slowed down and parked the car.


    "Thanks," Lois said, "I will make sure that people understand."


    "Well, appreciated." Zion replied.


    Lois got out of the car and quickly moved to fight her first victim, while Clark pushed himself out of the car. After fighting for a moment, he finally pulled himself out.


    "Thanks for ride," Clark stated.


    "Hey, Clark," Zion called and extended an envelop to Clark.


    Clark looked at the envelope, scanning it with his X-ray vision. He saw a two crystal rings of different size and a folded invite with "JL" on it. "What is this?"


    Zion had a very disappointed face, "Stop being a nerd and ask her out. Trust me, she will understand. As for the invite, think about it." Zion threw the envelope at Clark and drove away.


    "Clark," Lois called, already talking to a woman.


    "Coming," Clark answered and put the envelope in his bag before joking toward Lois.


    ...


    Zion looked at the rearview mirror and shook his head. He could only push, Clark need to take the step.


    ["Hey, we got guests."] Zai''s voice came from the radio.


    "Who?"


    ["Lanterns"]


    "They are late," Zion commented.


    ["I wish they were not here."]


    "Why?" Zion chuckled.


    ["Hal brought people who are dumb as him. They are demanding to meet you immediately."]


    "Who are the one arrived?" Zion asked.


    ["Kilowog, Senistro, Boodikka"]


    "They sent the heavy hitters," Zion muttered, "Ask them to wait, I got better things to do."

 64 - Work

    Hal Jordan traveled to different sectors, gathering his trusted allies, those who would hit hard.


    He had experienced the power of the one he was to apprehend. Hal was cocky but not overly so. Even though he thought he could take care of the Inferno himself, under the Guardians'' command, he tracked down other Lanterns.


    He went to sectors 674, 1417, and 1414 to collect Kilowog, Sinestro, and Boodikka. They were the greatest warriors he knew, who would never relent in a fight.


    But not all were ready for immediate departure as they still had things to do. For Kilowog, he was hunting a slave ship that was kidnapping people from primitive planets. Sinestro was returning a criminal to the prison he broke out of, and Boodikka needed to finish her patrol.


    He helped Kilowog capture the traders and deliver them to the prisons and made arrangements for the slaves to return home. They both went to Sinestro and Boodikka since their sectors were near each other.


    With all gathered, he began his explanation of the mission. He showed the projection of Nioz and the fight that was recorded in his ring. He also made sure to list all the powers he knew. Telekinesis, Telepathy, Shape-shifting, Pyrokinesis, Super strength, Heat vision.


    Kilowog joked about how Hal was knocked out, but he also understood the danger of the target. The amount of force needed to break Green Lanterns'' armor was astronomical, as it was made to combat the chaotic environments of different planets. But that defense was easily broken with a strong enough attack.


    Moreover, the target knew of the innate weakness of their power rings.


    From the orders and analysis on the target, the Green Lanterns decided to go with a less lethal option. They would converse with Nion and take him to the Guardians. They then decided on their roles and followed Hal to the Sol system, to Mars.


    The once red planet was mostly black now with circuitry lines running through it. The small red spot on the black planet was like the iris of an eye, and the circuits looked like vessels. The black lands looked like a stretch of plains from above, but on the ground, it was filled with mountains and forests filled with tall trees. The forest was filled with mechmorphic flora and fauna, brimming with life at every corner.


    The weird animals with circular eyes stared at the foreign visitors with curiosity, not with fear. These Mechmorphs were inherently not fearful, as death was not a concept in their world. The very earth that gave them life also gave them knowledge and immortality.


    This was what humans could call Eden.


    The Lanterns scanned the planet, but their rings could not recognize anything, not even the matter of the earth. The Ring just kept repeating ''not identified'' as it scanned the flora around them. The Lanterns looked a bit skeptical of the surrounding as they flew toward a towering castle the size of a city.


    The crystal city was a dot compared to the black land, but it stood tall in all its majesty. The high tower at the center graced the sky, cutting through the white clouds. The gothic towers and high walls looked intimidating, guarding against anything that dared to attack. Gargoyles sat intimidatingly as they judged the empty city.


    The Lanterns flew above the city and floated above the force-field.


    "NIOZ," Hal called out,


    They waited in silence, waiting for a reply. For a moment, there was absolute silence as the Lanterns wondered if they were heard. Yet when Hal was about to voice again, the city came alive as a voice boomed from the high tower.


    ["He is not here"]


    "Then who is talking?" Hal asked.


    ["Your grandma"] Zai answered.


    "Nion, come out," Hal demanded.


    ["He is not here"] Zai repeated.


    "Then where is he?" Hal questioned.


    ["None of your business, Green Lanterns"] Zai answered.


    Hal groaned as he felt frustration rising. Sinestro placed a hand on Hal''s shoulder before he moved forward. He then spoke with authority, "We are here under the order of the Guardians of the Universe. The Guardians demand your presence."


    ["Nion is not here, return after booking an appointment"] Zai responded.


    "Should we use force?" Boodikka said as she cracked her knuckles.


    "No," Sinestro lifted his hand to stop her, "Not yet."


    "When can we meet?" Kilowog asked.


    ["The schedule is a bit busy"] Zai sounded like he was contemplating. ["So, how about never?"]


    "Comply," Sinestro flashed his ring.


    ["You sure?"] Zai questioned.


    The city hummed to power as the force-field flashed bright and the golden circuitry lines came alive near the city. It felt like a sleeping monolith was coming alive. The Lanterns felt no threat at the show of power, but there was no need to.


    ["Tell your arrogant superiors that if they want to meet, they can come here to do so"]


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    Kilowog was the one to speak out, "Guardians can''t leave their post, from keeping order in the universe."


    ["Please rethink your statement at your leisure, Kilowog"]


    ["Come later, I am a bit busy to keep you company"] Zai stated, and the city lights died down, returning to its sleep.


    Zai didn''t care for the Guardians attacking him or others on this planet. He knew who they would be dealing with if that were to happen. And he judged Green Lanterns to have a hint of a brain left in their skull.


    "What do we do now?" Kilowog asked.


    "I will go to Earth," Hal said to Sinestro, "Get Superman who knows him."


    "Okay," Sinestro replied.


    Hal turned to Kilowog, and the two Lanterns flew toward Earth while Sinestro and Boodikka remained. Sinestro then lifted his hand and spoke, "Connect to the Guardians."


    [''What is it, Lantern?''] One of the Guardians answered.


    "Our target is not complying, he demands the Guardians to visit. Should we use aggression?" Sinestro replied.


    [''Use force if necessary''] The orders came through.


    ...


    Zion drove back to his warehouse, which was covered in light dust.


    He then transformed into Terraspin, a giant turtle capable of turning into a fan to blow the dust away from his equipment. After dusting the place, he changed into his spare suit. He didn''t want to return to Mars and deal with the Lanterns. They were such a pain, and he wanted to meet the Guardians anyway.


    He then opened the door to Gordon''s office and walked through. Gordon, who was going through a case file, freaked out. He pushed back on his chair and pulled his gun. It was fortunate that Gordon was not trigger-happy. Zion waved, unfazed by a mere gun.


    Gordon lowered the gun and placed it on the table, feeling a headache rising. He was already stressed with all the things happening in the city. Since Nion''s takeover, things had become complicated. Low-end criminals were going into a frenzy due to panic, while high-end criminals went underground.


    He couldn''t figure out what these maniacs were thinking.


    "Gordon, ready to meet your new workforce?" Nion asked cheerfully.


    Gordon sighed. He didn''t want to deal with it now; he just wanted to return home.


    "Don''t worry, your stress will be reduced with their arrival," Nion continued to assure. "The crimes will be solved efficiently and methodically. There will be no worry about corruption or backstabbing. You will be able to deal with city-level threats and respond better to situations. You should be happy about this."


    Gordon let out another sigh, resigning himself to deal with it. "Thank you, Sir." He didn''t want some of his officers to irk the King and be reprimanded. He, as the commissioner, had to deal with it.


    "Why don''t we go and welcome them?" Nion asked as he opened the door.


    The office, which was chattering, went pin-drop silent when they saw him walk out. Those who hadn''t noticed due to their work turned due to the abnormal silence. They took a moment to understand and stood up in a hurry. They were in the presence of a King, and Nion''s stature demanded respect.


    Some police officers even shivered when they saw him turn to them, especially those with guilty hearts. And Nion was going through their files, evaluating who to fire and who to reappoint. He didn''t want dirt in his system. Gotham would be clean when he was done with it.


    Nion already had a hundred names of those he would fire from the force by the time he crossed the first table. He then scanned the facilities.


    Gordon sheathed his gun and quickly followed Nion. He waved the officers to return to work while he rushed to the King. He followed Nion as he strolled through the station. He saw Nion looking around curiously before he commented.


    "You are going to need a bigger building," Nion began. "The conditions of your facilities are less than desirable. Your metahuman prisons can''t hold the strongest or most intelligent of them. The equipment you have is incapable of restraining or stopping them. The whole building is outdated and vulnerable to a break-in.


    It also seems most of your budget has gone into some pockets. I will meet with the Mayor and see if he is willing to step down."


    Gordon listened to all and gulped at the last. He knew that they were grossly under-geared for the criminals of this city. He had lost many of his trusted officers due to it, and he would really appreciate it if the situation improved.


    Gotham''s force was really poor compared to the criminals who controlled the city. The police were always outgunned by the criminals.


    "I will appoint someone better," Nion stated. "But there are also too many corrupt individuals that if I removed them all, it would create a vacuum. I don''t have experienced people to fill the created vacuum. Well, I can always appoint a Sentinel to do the job. Maybe the force doesn''t need humans anymore? Should I make the whole upper echelon automatic?" Nion muttered to himself.


    He could basically go fully tyrannical and install a new automated government that would control the whole world. It would be more integrated, but it would also be tyrannical, yet it would be more efficient. Conundrums. Moreover, he didn''t have the time to create a fully integrated system in weeks. It would also create a disparity with social advancement and morality.


    Too much good is bad too.


    He would appoint a new Mayor to deal with it. He had a target in mind who would be more suited. Batman, the night, the vengeance, the mayor. He wouldn''t need to run around in spandex, and Alfred would have less stress. How could he not care for his favorite butler?


    He would at least do it for the shits and giggles. The grumpy Bat as Mayor is one of the hilarious sights.


    With Nion lost in his world, Gordon followed him silently. They both arrived at the grounds where the teams gathered for mass briefing. Nion found only this space suitable for bringing his Sentinels. He gave a command, and a massive door opened at the end of the field.


    Gordon watched the warped gold cuboid as the space churned and metallic beings walked through. The humanoid giant was followed by three rows of Sentinels, marching orderly. The sentinels were armored with sleek, metallic plating, adorned with glowing light and intricate mechanics. Their heads looked humane, segmented so they could mimic emotions. Their eyes glowed blue with intelligence, and their faces looked different from each other, distinguishing one from the other. They also had divided genders and different characteristics, designed so people could feel at ease when they saw a sentinel.


    Gordon looked amazed at the Sentinels. They were bigger and intimidating, but also reassuring.


    "Atomizer," Nion called, and the Sentinel at the front walked to them. His design made it clear that he was the leader of the others.


    He came before Zion and saluted, "Sir."


    "You will work with Commissioner Gordon and send others to their assigned officers. I want this city clean by the week, use the lethal option if necessary." Nion ordered. He had already programmed the Sentinels, but it felt natural to give them orders.


    Atomizer turned to his subordinates and shared the files with them all. "Disperse, my Sentinels."


    The Sentinels uniformly saluted and dispersed. They took to the skies and divided, moving towards their assigned districts. They would perform well, and if some idiot was dumb enough to kidnap them, he would kindly visit them in full force.


    But he didn''t need to worry. Each Sentinel was more capable than any metahuman on Earth.


    Atomizer then turned to the commissioner and extended his massive hand for a handshake. Gordon was flustered, but he shook Atomizer''s hand. The scene was like a child shaking the hand of an adult.


    "It''s an honor working with you, sir," Atomizer voiced, his bionic voice carrying his sincerity.


    "Likewise," Gordon replied to Atomizer.


    "Atomizer will handle the assignment," Nion looked at his clock. "I have somewhere to be; I better get going."


    A door opened next to Nion, and he walked in, leaving few words for Atomizer.


    "Do well, Atomizer."

 65 - Execution

    Kara floated above the churning ocean.


    The ever chaotic sea filled with towering waves crashing against each other and mighty winds that made one feel the wrath of Nature. The mightiest of earth''s nature, unexplored by mankind, hiding mysteries in its depth.


    Kara felt her sense overwhelm by the sheer chaotic nature of such place. She was surrounded by ocean all side with wind fluttering her cape. She was here on a mission. A mission to capture some worthless criminals.


    She had been stationed in a country after removing all its terrorist. She was meant to remain as a show of force and authority. She felt no guilt watching all those burn, she felt relieved that they were all dead. While she remained, she saw the aftereffect of all that the terrorist did, they were really not worth calling humans, even by the kindest souls.


    She stayed until night, before returning to Smallville. She had already made sure that no trouble would lift its head before returning. She was tense until she came back home. Home. She wanted to stay with Martha for the night, and moreover she had promised to return for dinner. Martha asked no questions and served her dinner with the same warm smile that she had become so used to.


    Martha had grown on her, her presence calming her. She understood why Kal-El grew up to be what he is.


    Kara cherished the warmth and the creaking bed gave her peace. She slowly forgot the feeling of alienation at home. She didn''t feel like she was not fitting in places. Martha was one of the main reasons she could felt that way.


    She slept well, the area around her house was only filled with the sound of animals. The nature of the night. She had grown used to them too. No more sleepless nights and only peace. She thought of herself no more as a hero, no more as a beacon of hope, just a normal person.


    Kara understood not why, but she was adjusting. Finally, slowly, slowly let go of her past.


    But when she got up in the morning, Zion hit her up. He had given her a phone, highly advanced one.


    He had a mission for her. Nothing much, just cleaning trash. He gave her many targets for her to clean up. These targets were around the whole world, spread across the globe, sinking their poisonous claw deep into the system. Normally, such a large scale mission need multiple countries'' agreement and move of massive political power.


    However, who dares to question the King''s decision. Zion didn''t inform them.


    Kara ate her breakfast and left to her job. She was being paid for her duties. How can a King not pay his knight? Kara''s account balance was in millions. She without knowing had become his sword, maybe she did.


    Kara still wonder how easy it was for Zion to take over earth. She wonder how Kal-El had not taken over earth, however she also understood that Kal-El would never do that. But she still thought that the superhero work was inefficient in solving the problems in society.


    Kara flew through the sky as she check the first target. This one was near and was only a building.


    [ Crime: Arms dealing, Support of Terrorism, Rape and Murder ]


    [ Sentence: Death ]


    ["Just collapse the building"]


    Kara closed the phone and appeared above the building, high up in the sky that she was nothing but a dot. She scanned the building for her targets and the surrounding for potential escapees. After confirming that there will be not innocent casualties, she dropped.


    She stopped levitating and just dropped. The gravity pulled at her, her velocity increasing and increasing until she became a Kryptonian missile. After a minute, her feat touched the roof and it turned to dust on impact.


    *BOOM*


    Her body fell through uninterrupted by anything until she landed on the basement. Her landing caused the whole ground to sink as crater extended beyond the building.


    The building that was okay one moment began to crack the next. Cracks extended through the building as its foundation broke causing the building to collapse on itself. The four story building sung to the ground, throwing dust and rubble across the street.


    *boom*


    Kara jumped out of the rubble and scanned the area for any surviving target. She saw that some were crushed and others were stuck under rubble. She cared not to finished them of as she flew away. Kara didn''t want to kill recklessly but they were going to die anyway. And she cared not for garbage.


    Kara then selected the second target and flew there.


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    The same stuff, different way. Kara dropped down and killed if she could or just blasted them with Heat vision if she wanted precision. Cold breath and some punches to break bones. She moved from one target to another, taking them all out without much care.


    No force expected the attack, nor were they ready for one. Kara was like an unstoppable wind that blew through their straw huts. No weapon or man could stop her.


    Kara ticked off nearly all of her targets by afternoon, her next one leading her to the middle of the Atlantic ocean.


    [ Crimes: Human trafficking, Wildlife trafficking, Kidnapping and Exploitation, Murder ]


    [ Sentence: To Hell ]


    ["Kill on sight"]


    Kara read the description and scanned the massive cargo ship. The sight caused her brow to furrow in anger. The places she had hit before were small compared to this.


    Hundred of container were filled with humans, Man, woman, children. All imprisoned like animals. Most looked as they were dead, their eyes hollow. The children looked malnourished and traumatized. They all cuddled together in so much fear that Kara''s vision turned red in pure rage.


    She then scanned for all others, and it infuriated her more.


    The men who had imprisoned them were partying, getting drunk and forcing themselves on their to-be victims. They had men woman, children, bound and unbound, crying for mercy as these beasts tried to force themselves on them.


    On the other side was the past victims, chained naked to the wall for their sadistic pleasure. Their body were impaled in places it should not be. Kara couldn''t imagine the horror they have experienced.


    Kara moved, not thinking once before she turned all the monsters into blood mist. She pulled no punched and turned everything wrong to nothing. She crushed their body, divided them with her heat vision, froze them in ice.


    No wall blocked her as she tore the monsters with her bare hand.


    *SWISH*


    It all happened in an instant, the victims were still begging when the wind blew them back. They lifted their heads and saw gore and blood as their capture were broken beyond recognition. They didn''t know what happened, but a storm had killed their horror.


    Kara was on the other side of the ship, her dress untouched.


    She scanned the place, all were dead, yet her anger not. She was fuming, she didn''t understand why humans would do this to their own kind.


    *Ping*


    Kara pulled the phone from her belt. It showed a location a few kilometer from where she was, to an island.


    ["Take them there."]


    Kara understood as she kept the phone back and dived into the ocean. She swam under the cargo ship and lifted it. Her muscles strained as she exerted a force beyond normal. Her breath steady, her hand sunk. She covered the whole ship in her tactical telekinesis, stopping the ship from breaking due its weight.


    The medium sized cargo ship weighting in tens of thousands of tons was lifted from the ocean. Those that were in the ship freaked out as they rushed to the window and saw the ocean drain? No, they were floating up. They moved to figure what happened but Kara began to fly in the island''s direction.


    The massive ship flew horizontally towards the horizon.


    Kara didn''t feel the strain much, just felt the ship was a bit heavy. As heavy as a kilo to a human. She carried the ship through the ragging wind and crashing waves, unperturbed. After flying for an hour she arrived at the nearest habitable Island.


    She lowered the ship back into the ocean, softly as she could and pulled it to the shore. She pulled the ship fully into the shore and flew back up. She lifted the containers one by one and placed them on the ground, carefully.


    She unloaded all the containers from the ship. Even tore the whole crew section and put it down.


    The kidnapped cuddled together as they felt the container moved. They felt fear that they have finally arrived at their hell. Ready to be sold like sheep. The hope full of them wished it was rescue. They preyed that they were being taken from this hell.


    They looked to the door with gazes containing many emotions.


    The door creaked and bend as it was ripped from its hinges before being thrown off. Light flooded the dark confinement causing all to squint their eyes. The women blocked the light with their arms, squinting through the fingers to see who its was.


    All they saw was the bright red ''S'' and the fluttering cape, figure blackened by the flooding light. They knew what the ''S'' stood for.


    "Superman?" The woman at the front spoke, unable to see the figures face due to the light.


    "No.." Kara replied as she turned away.


    "Then?" The woman asked, wanting to know who it was.


    Kara thought for a moment, She didn''t have a hero moniker, but Martha did. "Supergirl, call me Supergirl," Kara answered.


    Kara then moved away from the container and ripped the doors of the other. She tore them away as it was easier for her. It was similar to tearing wet tissue paper. The thumping sound of metal door hitting the ground reverberated through. Those that were still sealed felt hope while those that were free gathered themselves and moved to release other.


    The women released the men and the men spread to release others.


    Kara tore opened the door to the children, who cuddle to the back in fear. But they rushed forward when they say the ''S''. Hope was ignited as their hero was here. They didn''t notice Kara, but the ''S'', they notice hope.


    Kara freaked a bit at the children running to her crying. She didn''t know how to react and the momentary lapse caused her to be surrounded by crying kid who hugged her tight. Kara looked around, struggling, not knowing how to calm them.


    She was in a conundrum until a group a woman rushed to the children and separated them from Kara. They soothed the children in different language. The men didn''t watch as they let the woman sooth the children, they didn''t want to scare the children anymore. The women spread and soothed the other children.


    Kara slipped away from the children and a ping came from her belt.


    ["Rescue will arrive in 30"]


    Kara kept the phone back in and waited for thirty minutes. She didn''t want to leave, her presence assured the people. The people who had calmed down, fell to the floor in gratitude. They cried their gratefulness to Kara, but Kara only felt more awkward.


    After 30 minutes, a battalion of navy and choppers arrived to the island. They moved immediately seeing the mess. Broken cargo ship and hundred of containers covering the whole beach. The military who moved were guarded as they moved to the people. They fear Kara and the man who commanded. They began checking the people and giving them juice to hydrate before they moved to check their conditions.


    Kara watched them for few minutes to make sur everything was alright before she flew away. She still had many other people to kill.

 66 - Burden

    Kara flew from the island and began wreaking havoc on all the other targets.


    Across the world, people died without knowing the cause. Those who were on the list were all criminals who committed heinous crimes worthy of death. So, Kara held no punches back as she tore through them like a paper shredder.


    Within the next hour, she hit more than 50 different targets across the globe. She didn''t stop, just executed without mercy. Everywhere she went, there was destruction, blood, and gore. Yet, not a single drop of blood was on her.


    With such actions, she rescued more than a thousand people, but also gave enough cause for the governments of the countries to move. They had been ignoring it or putting it as a low priority. But the fact that a separate individual could come into their country and wreck it without them being able to stop it was frightening.


    Kara worked until the sky turned light, and by mid-evening, she had put an end to these crime chains across the globe. This would not only halt the crimes across the globe but also make the criminals scared.


    There was no more mercy, there were no more loopholes. Only death was present.


    Kara returned home, back to Kansas.


    However, she couldn''t walk into her home. She just floated above the house, her figure bathing in the setting sun.


    She couldn''t bring herself to go in. She felt her heart heavy. It was the guilt of a life, a life she had taken today. She didn''t feel regret about their deaths, nor did she care. But this phantom guilt stopped her from seeing Martha.


    She felt disgusting to even face her. It was like facing her father all over again. Even though they understood, it still felt wrong.


    "Aren''t it a pain!" A voice stated, a voice very familiar.


    "Zion," Kara spoke without turning.


    Zion floated next to Kara in his Solaris transformation. He felt that this would be the most appropriate for The Talk. He knew how Kara would feel. Her anger and conviction would let her kill but not her heart. She was impulsive but kind.


    "How was the day? Bit prickly," He asked, not turning to her face.


    "Why are you here, Zion?" Kara asked, she knew Zion was here for something.


    Zion floated a step forward, blocking the sun. He turned with the light to his backdrop. The cape on his suit fluttered in the wind. He looked straight at Kara, h-


    "Stop being dramatic and cut to the chase," Kara cut him off.


    "C''mon, don''t spoil the mood," Zion whined, moving away from the sun and stopped trying to be dramatic. "I am here to talk."


    "..."


    Zion crossed his arms to the back and looked at the sunset, "What your heart is feeling is the burden of death, of the lives that were taken. It is the feeling of crossing the line of black and white and entering grey."


    "..."


    "You do not regret the decision to kill, but you feel accountable," Zion continued, not speaking only to Kara. "To kill is to live with that burden, even if that was the right thing to do. Taking a life puts a burden on your soul. That''s what it means to have a conscience. It is right. The weight of death only weighs on those that want to live right, if you hadn''t, you would be no different than those that you kill."


    "..."


    "Weight of death is not easily reconciled. Unattended, it will darken your soul," Zion was here to do therapy and he would. "The burden can''t be removed but can be lessened. You just need to accept that it was for the better cause. For the better future.


    It is to accept the burden and live with it. And remember, you have not just saved thousands but millions of others who would be victims. They will now return to their family and be happy. Their happiness comes due to your sacrifice.


    It will take time for you to accept the burden, but don''t we all have a little bit of time."


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    Zion gave a bright smile, but Kara still didn''t turn to him. She stood still, her gaze fixed on the horizon. She was contemplating his words. Today, she had killed more than a thousand people. She had ended that many lives.


    It was no longer about crossing the line; it was about accepting, to not sink into the abyss. She can''t undo the deaths, but she can live with her decision.


    "I don''t want to kill," Kara spoke, "I don''t want to feel ashamed to look at one person who showed me kindness. But if it is needed, I will do it."


    Zion nodded. "I understand."


    Kara thought for a moment and asked, "No more work?".


    ~pftt~


    Zion burst into laughter, he laughed so loud he started to gasp for breath. The irony in it was blind to Kara. Kara was one of the strongest Kryptonians on the planet. She had no weakness. But she was scared of working as a waiter.


    She had a really bad experience.


    She had joined the nearby restaurant to work as a waiter. Throughout the morning, she did great as it was easy for her to memorize the names and orders. She just didn''t know how to suggest a good food when people asked, but that was not the problem.


    It was a cold Friday night.


    Her shift was late, and workers who had finished their shifts came to order. The restaurant was packed a bit, and the waiters moved about taking orders. Kara, being one of the best, moved around the tables to take orders.


    And some drunken idiot thought it was a good idea to try and grab her. Well, it ended with him in the hospital due to a skull fracture. She had hit the guy so hard that the tray she had his face print on it.


    The manager, a big black woman, didn''t care about the guy, but she chewed Kara out for breaking the table and tray. Kara had heard some hard words in her time of imprisonment, but it didn''t hurt much like the woman calling her a reckless idiot.


    The manager, the fearless woman, scolded her so bad that she missed her mother. Kara was weak to insults, especially ones that cared, and the woman didn''t care if Kara had strength. She came back nearly crying, and Martha had to console her. Martha paid for the broken items, and the manager was still okay with Kara working.


    Zion, who heard of it, fell to the floor in laughter.


    "Sorry...ha..ha, Sorry," Zion apologized, but he couldn''t control. "Its just a funny image."


    Kara glared at Zion, her itch to punch his face increasing.


    Zion then offered Kara a job. She was to be his knight. Of course, there were many conditions on Kara''s part. She had the right to refuse the job or completely disobey Zion''s orders. She could do anything she wanted, and Zion would pay for the job she did.


    And it was the money that made her change her mind.


    She was outright broke. She went to the restaurant so she could normalize her interaction with humans. She would then find a better job later after she was okay with other humans. But now she had more than millions and still worked at the Restaurant, sometimes.


    "Okay, okay," Zion controlled his laughter. "You can


    visit Mars. Z.A.I will find something for you to do."


    Zion had many things to do, and Z.A.I was already monitoring all of it. The poor A.I was overworked and not paid. But he could lessen the burden with Kara''s assistance. Her being near would also help him collect some data.


    Kara nodded at the suggestion.


    "Why don''t you kids come in instead of just floating like kites?"


    Kara looked to Martha, who was standing on the porch. She had her hands folded with a warm smile.


    "Yes, Martha," Kara replied as she got to the ground and gave Martha a hug.


    "Ask your friend to come too," Martha looked at Zion who was still floating.


    "Yes, Ma''am," Zion smiled as he landed down.


    Kara sidelong glared at Zion before she walked in and went to her room. Solaris'' dress morphed and turned into a normal t-shirt and shorts.


    "Sit on the couch, the dinner will be finished in a few minutes," Martha instructed before she walked into the kitchen.


    Zion sat down, only for a few moments before he stood up and walked around before the living room, looking at the pictures. He saw pictures of Clark at different ages, from a baby to a young man at his prom dress.


    ***


    Green Lantern arrived above the skies of Metropolis, Daily Planet.


    He had tracked Superman with his ring. He needed to find Nioz, and Superman seemed to know the guy. So, he came for Superman. He tracked down Superman to his working place and found the guy working in a nearly empty office.


    Talk about shock.


    He wanted to speak to him, but he also didn''t want to reveal his secret identity. So, he willed a microphone and shouted.


    "Superman, I am here to talk."


    The sound was loud enough to be heard by people in the whole building. Those who heard looked out the window at the two who were floating around in green and especially at the massive humanoid pink bore that looked menacing.


    Flashes and photos were taken by the reporters in the building.


    "Lantern, why are you here?" Superman appeared at the scene.


    Green Lantern turned to Superman.


    "We need your help getting Nioz," Hal spoke.


    "Why?" Superman questioned.


    "The Guardians want to meet him," Hal answered.


    "Who?" Superman asked, genuinely not knowing.


    "The Guardians are the protectors of the universe and the founders of Green Lanterns Corp, they keep peace in the universe," Hal explained, "Big stuff."


    "Why do they need to see him?" Superman asked.


    "Well," Hal turned to Kilowog before answering. "Nioz is from an extinct species that is a threat to the universe. The Guardians asked me to bring him."


    "So, you are here to arrest him," Superman pointed.


    "Yes," Hal revealed. "Just tell me where he is, I will take him and bring him back safely."


    "Mars," Superman answered.


    "Where did you think I checked first? His annoying A.I said he was not there," Hal said.


    "Hmm," Clark hummed as he expanded his senses to cover the whole planet. He was seeing and hearing things from across the world, and he focused on finding a single person.


    ''Would you like some tea?''


    ''Yes, ma''am.''


    Superman found Zion in Kansas.

 67 - Departure

    Zion calmly sipped on the green tea,


    Martha had given him since he would be waiting for the dinner to be ready. Zion sat in silence, waiting for the guests to arrive. Zion drank the last bit and placed the cup on the side table. Zion let out an appreciative sigh, the tea was good.


    "You haven''t left?" Kara asked as she walked down.


    Kara was out of her costume and in her home mode. She wore a oversize t-shirt with ''I love metropolis'' and a tenim shorts. She looked like any normal girl from a city as she looked at Zion with her questioning gaze.


    Zion scanned here from head to toe, "Suits you."


    Kara lifted her brow, questioning his answer. She wanted to know why the guy who runs the world is sitting here. Kara saw Zion lift his hand with three fingers pointing, and began to fold it one by one.


    One,


    Two,


    Three,


    *Ring ring*


    Kara snapped her head toward the door, her gaze penetrating the wooden door and gazing directly at the person. She met Superman''s gaze which was also looking straight at her. Superman gave and nod and opened the door.


    "Who is it, honey?" Martha voice came from the kitchen.


    "Its Kal-El," Kara answered, and heard the surprised sound of Martha.


    Kara turned to Zion, her eyes sharp. Zion just smiled. Kara then turned to Superman who let himself in, followed by Green Lantern. GL scanned the simple house as he followed Superman. He didn''t know why Superman had brought him here.


    Kilowog waited outside, watching in case of an ambush.


    "Kara," Superman greeted.


    "Clark," Martha came out of the kitchen.


    "Mom," Superman gave a soft smile.


    "You surprised me," Martha check Superman for any injuries.


    She always made sure her boy was okay, even though he was indestructible.


    "I am fine, Mom," Clark answered, "I came to meet Zion."


    Superman turned his gaze to the young man sitting at the couch of his house as if he didn''t own the world. Zion just shrugged at his gaze and got up.


    "It seems like work had caught up to me," Zion spoke, "Forgive me for not staying to dine."


    "Its fine," Martha answered, "You can always come later."


    "Then allow me to leave," Zion was being very respectful.


    He nodded to Superman and Kara before walking towards GL and gestured hims to follow. Zion and GL walked out of the house.


    "I am sorry, Mom," Clark apologized.


    Martha caressed his cheek, "Its fine, I don''t mind. And I have Kara to protect me." Martha smiled.


    Superman turned to Kara, "Keep her safe."


    Kara gave a nod and Superman followed out.


    Zion and Hal were standing on the porch, looking at the fields that covered the whole place, clear night sky that was filled with stars. Zion looked straight into the vast space, but Hal was a bit tense. His body remembered the punch very well. His reing was pulsing with power to react to any threats.


    "Zion, why do the lanterns want you?" Superman asked.


    Zion shrugged.


    "You species is considered a threat to the universe," Kilowog answered. "The guardians demand your presence."


    "Are you sure that you are here for me?" Zion asked.


    "You are Noiz," Hal pointed.


    "Am I?" ¨ß( ¨‰, ¨‰ )¨Ï


    "..."


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    "Why don''t you ask your little ring?" Zion suggested. "Just in case you are trying to arrest an innocent person."


    Zion, Hal, and Superman turned to his ring. Hal lifted his hand and pointed the ring at Zion and spoke his command, "Identify target."


    A beam of light extended and Zion from up to down before it retracted back.


    [ Name: Unkown ]


    [ Species: Kryptonian ]


    [ Gender : Male ]


    [ Bone age: 26 ]


    "Match with target Inferno," Hal commanded.


    [ Target not matched ]


    "See," Zion pointed, "You clearly got the wrong guy."


    Hal thought about it and turned to Superman, "It was him we fought together, or are you lying to protect the other one."


    Superman sighed. He was caught between a rock and a hard place. He didn''t want to oppose the Green Lanterns or reveal Zion''s ability as it was his secret. He contemplated what to do when a voice answered from the behind.


    "He can shape shift, even his genetics," Kara answered from the door.


    Zion turned to Kara with a betrayed looks, "Really? I am your employer. Hove some work ethics mate."


    "Don''t care. Suffer," Kara commented before she went in,


    Zion now turned to the two Green Lanterns boring holes in him with their gaze. Kilowog''s ring flashed as he got ready to fight. Hal also fully activated his ring lifting himself from the ground.


    "Under the orders of the guardian, you are under arrest," Hal spoke.


    "Did they say to arrest me?" Zion tilted his head, his eyes glowing red.


    Kilowog and Hal got ready to meet aggression when Superman cut in. "Zion, leave with them without causing trouble. I don''t want the place to be destroyed."


    "Okay," Zion dropped the act, "Let''s leave the people alone and be on our way. meet you at Mars."


    Zion glitched out.


    "Damn him," Hal shouted as Zion vanished before his eyes. "He ran away, again."


    Superman sighed, "Don''t worry, he will come with you. But now, I hope you take your duty somewhere else."


    Hal nodded and floated up. "You secret is safe with me, Superman," Hal stated one last time before he flew up.


    The two lanterns turned into streaks of light in the sky, vanishing from his sight in a moment.


    "Its going to be hell," Kara commented from behind.


    Superman turned to Kara, his face displaying his question.


    "He knew they were coming," Kara commented, "Last time he planned something, he took over the planet."


    Superman didn''t need more word. He understood. Zion was planning something and the Lantern would give him exactly what he wanted. And they wouldn''t even see it coming.


    ...


    *****


    Zion glitched into the control room.


    The white crystal room bright with blue light from the holograms. They displayed almost everything that was happening on both the planets. Zai was on constant watch for any threats that might lift its head.


    "How is the situation? Zion asked,


    ["See for yourself"]


    One of the holograms changed, showing the image of what was happening. He saw Senstro and boodika flying hazardously as two condensed beam chased after them. They constructed many object to halt its advance, yet it moved uninterrupted. The beam punctured holes through their constructs as it chased them relentlessly.


    The Lanterns tried to hit emitter, but the shield stopped any attack.


    The beam was something similar to Darksied''s omega beam. He created it just to spite some people. Let them deal with a never stopping beam of destruction that would follow them for eternity. Of course, they could give it another target, but it was a consciously controlled beam.


    Zion turned from the hologram and pressed the side of the wall,


    The wall sunk in, revealing a new suit embroidered with symbols of language forgotten. The whole suit came with a long overcoat, a bit special. This one was prepared for special occasions, such as meeting the Guardians of the Universe.


    This new suit was the peak of his, now available, technology. The suit increase his base strength by ten, added with kinetic technology, a solar generator and a small lightning from beyond. The suit could also tank Superman''s full force punch. The suit would protect him if he were to fight the whole Lantern corp in their home planet.


    Only Mobo would give him trouble, but he was sure that he could annihilate a planet.


    He was not going as a human, Solaris would be the one to visit them. He was not a fool, being a human would leave him open and going as Inferno would put them on edge. They just need to treat him like sentient creature, not a threat. At least until he got what he wanted.


    Changing into the suit, he couldn''t help but feel a bit annoyed at the situation. He hadn''t had the time to finish his work in Earth.


    With Gotham being the first city to come under his rule, he need to increase the speed at which it developed. The faster he gained control over the city, the faster he could move on with his expansion. He need to take over the whole country first before moving way to the other.


    He need the whole world united, they were divided, easily felled. They relied too much on their heroes. The corrupt ruled for too long, but not on his watch. This planet would stand together to fight any threat, they would be stronger than ever.


    Oans would help him achieve just that,


    With their Bio-matrix data collected, he could access the emotional spectrum. Their knowledge and power would become his and he would put it to better use.


    He need to make more plans on how to deal with the other idiots that will be targeting him. His only worry was the buzz head. He was strong, strong enough to defeat Darkseid. His fight with Darkseid was won, but this one would be harder.


    Things were moving faster, way faster.


    ["The others have arrived."] Zai stated.


    Hal and Kilowog appeared above the crystal city, watching as senestro and Boodika zigzagged across the sky, running from the lazer beam that chased them relentlessly.


    Zion breathed out and stretched his neck and shook his muscles.


    "Times up," Zion muttered as the wall opened.


    Zion walked to the opening and floated towards the Lanterns. The lazer stopped chasing them, allowing them to regain their bearings. The Lanterns floated still and looked confused that the lazer that were chasing them have stopped.


    "Shall we depart then?" Solaris asked.


    The Lanterns turned to him, while Boodika charged her ring to strike him. Senestro lifted his hand to stop her. He understood why the Guardians sent them to get this man. He was dangerous, he could tell from the way he carried himself.


    He had not met him before, but the one before him was confident without the slightest of doubt.


    "Let us leave," Senestro constructed a Spaceship, encasing them all in to. "I hope you will not retaliate."


    Zion shrugged as he walked to the seat and put on the seat belt. Senestro watched him before he accelerated the ship, The ship turned into a beam of light as it traveled towards the center of the universe, to Oa.

 68 - Autism(Jokes)

    Zion yawned, his mind bored.


    The ship was traveling at near lightspeed, but it was slow compared to the cosmic distance they need to cover. It had been 30 since start of the travel, going opposite, out of the solar system. And Zion was starting to get bored of the monotonous ride.


    "Getting ready to jump," Boodika spoke from the front.


    Hal and Senestro sat opposite him, watching him with alertness. Kilowog sat with Boodika piloting the ship.


    The ship brightened up for a moment before it displayed itself in space-time. The boom of space displacing itself caused Solaris'' ears to ring. He turned his eyes away from the Lanterns, his gaze looking past the ship into the space.


    A green flourishing planet, its oceans forming the Green Lantern symbol with water that was visible from space. The planet was filled with life. most of it occupied by natural fauna and Flora while at the center of the Lanter was the metropolis.


    The circle was filled with towering skyscrapers with a giant Lantern at the center standing tall as the guiding light. The building were golden green. The advance architecture was breath taking, creating a interconnected monolith.


    This is Green Lantern Corp.


    This is the Center of the Universe.


    This was the Home of the Guardians,


    He could already feel the energy pulsing out of the planet, the vitality of will. His goal for the day was near, the power he wanted was close. He could feel it in his grasp.


    The ship lowered in altitude before it dispelled on the air above the metropolis. Green Lantern was about to give him a lift, but he managed himself. He scanned the ground, watching many Lanterns move above, going in and out of the massive lantern.


    With the click of of his shoes, he landed on the very grounds of Oa. Solaris pocketed his hands into his long coat as it fluttered in the wind.


    "Follow," Senestro commanded.


    Solaris didn''t comment on his command and followed him. flanked by other. Senestro took him through a lon hall with massive pillars before he brought him to the council. The massive room with a floating disk was filled with blue Dwarfs.


    Solaris'' smile changed to that of absolute confidence, his stride were filled with power. His eyes turned serious as he met eyes with the Guardians. He was not here as prisoner, but as equal, on business.


    "Hello, Guardians," Zion waved at the Guardians.


    "He is not an inferno," One of the guardians pointed.


    The Guardians with their extensive knowledge and power could tell that Solaris was not an Inferno, but a Kryptonian.


    Hal move forward at that question,"He is the one I fought, I confirmed it. He has the power to manipulate his DNA or something."


    At Hals answer, the Guardians turned to Solaris, "Is it true?"


    "Maybe?" Solaris shrugged.


    The Guardians turned to each other, discussing telepathically among themselves.


    "How did you obtain the data need to change yourself to an Inferno?" Other Guardians asked, "How many knows of them? How many have your reproduced?"


    Solaris faked a flich, "Ooh, too much questioning. Why? Are you scared your dirty hands would be revealed?" He questioned.


    "What was done had to be done," The Guardian refuted.


    "Yeah, genetically modifying a race so they would evolve into lesser versions of themselves and create a strife where they would try to kill each other over skin color. Cool," Soliris'' words dripped with sarcasm.


    "They were not lesser, they were better. They were more peaceful than the infernos."


    "Peaceful. Peaceful race the near got wiped out due to your mishandling. A peace that drove a whole species to a near extinction," Solaris turned his head and met all the Guardians'' gaze. "For the same peace you hid your bloodied hands and act all noble on your high horses.


    You all are nothing but a bunch of little cowered, suits your stature should I say." Solaris gave a mocking grin.


    "Silence, " The voice boomed, "You do not understand. The consequences of our inaction would have been dire. The infernos would have spread across galaxies, spreading never ending terror."


    "Well, what about the Manhunters?" Solaris asked, drowning the council in silence. "They were your creation who now wants to only end all life. What about the Sector 666 and all its people who got massacred? Who is going to pay for that?"


    The Lanterns looked shocked at the information, turning to Guardians to explanation.


    But Solaris didn''t allow for them to speak more.


    "What about the Pisions? You created them and now you hide your shame while they do horrible experiment in their sector? What of Korna? What about the impurity in the Central battery? What about the limiter in the Ring which caused the death of many valiant Lanterns? What of their deaths which are in millions?


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    What of the other Emotional Spectrum? What about the war of light and the Darkest night?


    What about the New gods, Darkseid, who want to enslave all life?


    What about the Magic you seal away in fear of it?


    You hide many things from you own while abandoning the emotions that give your powers. You have only hidden your dirty hands, your mistakes, appearing as if your are nobles, but your are, again, nothing but a bunch of cowards."


    Silence,


    "Your in actions have already done too much damage.


    How many are you willing to sacrifice? How many do you want to die in your name? How many more?"


    Solaris lowered his head, his face darkened by shadow.


    "You sealed your powers on fear, but I will use them for good," Solaris lifted his head, a victorious smile plastered on his lips. "Thank you for granting me access to one of the Sever forces of the universe."


    The Guardians got up in alert, finally remembering his powers. The Lanterns moved to intercept but a Golden light flashed, stunning all that were present.


    A wave of power exploded in the epicenter of the light, pushing all to the wall.


    The light dimmed, revealing a bluish dwarf with black hair, his dress was tight fit with his long coat unchanged. His body was not even thin like the other Guardians but buff with vitality and power. Black coat fluttered in the wind as Will radiated from him with absolute force.


    He looked at his hands, his innate power expanding tremendously, "With such power your could have ended many war by just being a deterrent."


    "You do not understand the power that you try to control," the Guardians spoke.


    Zion grinned, which unnerved the Lanterns since no one had ever seen a Guardian grin. "I do."


    Zion reach the depth of his mind, opening the black door for some help. He then reach into the Emotional Spectrum, his will connecting to its endless power.


    "In the brightest day, in the blackest night, No evil shall escape my sight. Let those who worship evil''s might, beware my power, Green Lantern''s light."


    A green light exploded, a force unmatched raged like unbridal tide, ripping and destroying the very fabric of space. The whole main building exploded in a brilliant catastrofiy, a storm of will raging at its center.


    The lanterns moved in urgency, to respond to the attack. But the minute their put their will into the ring, it was drained. The force that create the ring was returning to its source. The will was being drawn from all the source it could be found, even the central battery was drained of its power.


    At the center of its all Zion watched as the will take form of a celestial Whale that expanded across the time and space, from the birth of sentience to the end of it all. Ion, Embodiment of Will.


    "Follow," Zion commanded with the combined will of SoulBounds.


    The Whale wailed before the whole energy began to condensed, changed from a ranging force to a calm sea, hiding its powerful currents. The energy reduced to a side of a ring that spun at mid air before the Zion, levitating above his hand.


    "You," Guardian who were able to protect themselves from the explosion watched in horror. They could feel the power contained within that ring. Such power if interrupted would erase the whole galaxy.


    Zion hummed as the will finally came under his control, but he wasn''t done.


    "In the fearful day, in raging night, With strong hearts full, our souls ignite. When all seems lost in the War of Light, Look at the stars, for hope burns bright."


    This time when he finished, a blue calming light flooded forth, one that glowed bright blue and filled the hearts of all that were present with Hope. The Light swirled and churned like the cosmic winds before it took the form of the three headed bird that Expanded its wing beyond death.


    This was Adara, the Embodiment of Emotion Hope.


    "Believe" Zion asked.


    The light began to condense, turning into a ring that encased the green ring, empowering it. The two emotions rotated independent of each other, encasing and enhancing each other.


    "Tor lorek san, bor nakka mur, Natromo faan tornek wot ur. Ter lantern ker lo Abin Sur, Taan lek lek nok-- Formorrow Sur!"


    A soft Indigo expanded from Zion, covering all that with in its calming light. No force or pressure was felt. It asked not for force but compassion. The light took the form of an octopus looking created, its tendrils extending across all species. This was Proselyte, the Embodiment of Compassion.


    "Support."


    The ring of compassion formed, orbiting under the protection of Will and Hope.


    "For hearts long lost and full of fright, For those alone in Blackest night, Accept our light and join our fight, Love conquers all-- with violet light."


    This time a violet light burst forth, rippling and thumping like the loudest drum. It was the drum of a heart filled with Love. The Violet rose to the sky, taking the form of an insect, Predator, the Embodiment of Love.


    "Cherish."


    The violet light encased all, amplifying their affection. But before things could go wrong, the light was encased in Will, creating the fourth ring that spun at high speed, creating a gyroscope that spun infinity.


    Zion didn''t need to recite the oath, but it helped him focus on the emotion that he need to push to control. He stopped his chant as he was being overwhelmed with emotions, his mind was feeling the strain of such power, and the next emotion was, Fear.


    Fear was something that SoulBownds don''t exhibit, they fear no evil nor are they ever afraid. But they do fear something, a fear of loss. Loss of something dear.


    "Huuuu," Zion breathed out,


    "What you are doing is madness!" A voice stopped his thoughts.


    Zion turned to see the battered Guardians who were surrounding him, radiating power. They were tapping into their lost power, regaining strength. They were preparing to stop Zion at his maddness. No sentient being should be able to handle that much power, even at their diluted from, it would erase.


    Zion smirked, "What trying to stop me? You do not have the capabilities, nor does your Lanterns."


    Zion had already broken all the Lantern Ring on Oa when he summoned Ion.


    "We will," The Guardians rose, ready to fight to death.


    Zion scanned everyone, he smirked and forced the Will he possessed.


    "Kneel."


    A command to overwrite, to kneel, through the emotions that connected all Sentience, This Titanic will forced it hand, causing all that was around him to Kneel, wanted or not. Hal Jordan, Senestro and the Guardians resisted him with all their mind, but their body creaked as it lowered itself.


    "Let me finish what I began," Zion stated.


    "In Blackest Day, in brightest night, Beware your fears made into light. Let those who try to stop what''s right, Burn like my power-- Fear''s Might."


    A yellow light beckoned like an earthquake, like the very earth shaking in fear. The light reached up, before it turned right, summoning Parallax. Parallax fought back the summon, yellow light under his command, yet will and hope surpassed and suppressed him.


    "Surrender," Zion spoke fear.


    The fearful parasite sealed in the light of Green and Blue. encompassed by Indigo and Violet.


    "What''s mine is mine amd mine and mine. And mine and mine and mine! Not yours!"


    An orange light coiled around Zion, cowering everything in its light Greedily. It was as if it was making all that present its. The coiling surrounded the whole planet, taking the form of a serpent that coiled the whole world. Ophidian, the Embodiment of Avarice.


    "Covet," Zion spoke.


    The snaked uncoiled before it formed the Sixth ring.


    "With blood and rage of crimson red, Ripped from a corpse so freshly dead, Together with our hellish hate, We''ll burn you all, That is your fate!"


    A red light like a raging tornado from the depths of hell. A roar that spoke endless anger, a red bull with four horns. THe pure anger radiating off the being caused the people who gazed at him have their blood drained. This was the Embodiment of anger, The Butcher.


    "Submit."


    The rage-filled Bull wanted to fight, but the other emotions suppressed it to submit.


    The bloody wind vanished as the seven ring formed, floating before Zion, each emotion amplifying and balancing the other. The perfect harmony, yet he was not done.

 69 - Sentinel

    [Is he dead? No, his vitals are active]


    Sentinal''s bionic voice echoed in the dark alley, cutting the eerie silence. The man hung by the scruf of his dirty cheap sweater under the hands of the Sentinel. His cheap sweater made some tearing marks under his bodies strain, adding more to the worn-out sweater.


    The Sentinel turned the hanging body, scanning the man''s vitals. The man heart was beating weakly, nearly no fat, even malnourished, some poorly patched wounds that were on the verge of infection and some broken bones.


    The sentinel sighed in relief as a gesture of its resume being not marked with a dead human.


    "Put the man down," A growling voice came from the shadow.


    The sentinels turned his head to the shadow. Its eyes were not hindered by darkness, revealing a figure clad in Darkness with a bat on his chest. The Sentinel immediately recognized the figure.


    [Batman]


    The Sentinel spoke.


    The Batman just silently gazed as the Sentinel.


    The two exchanged no more words, silently stareing at each other. The emotionless blue verse the Cowled. The Sentinel silently put the man in a force field to his back. A bubbled encased the man in fetal position and attached him to the sentinels back. His actions were as it was only normal and was not intimidated by Batman. He was a Sentinel, he is not scared of a man cosplaying bat and running around midnight.


    The Sentinel turned with out a word and took to the sky.


    Batman could clearly see the man being kept at the forcefield, like a stasis. He stood there as he watched the Sentinel vanish among the highrise building of Gotham.


    ["They seem to be doing a good job"] (Penny1)


    Batman turned back into the shadow, "But not deep enough."


    He vanished into the shadow.


    ...


    The Sentinel carried the man to a nearby shelters they had established.


    The sentinel landed on the pavement before the new shelter, scaring the people who were standing around.


    The Shelter was a bit white building, newly painted and all. At the top was a Golden cross that signified the Shelter. The building was practically new, the remodeling team rebuild a new internal structure and expanded, taking the two building to the side of the shelter.


    The bright white was like sore thumb among the dark and giddy structures of Gotham.


    The Sentinel established the shelters shortly after arriving at Gotham. Commissioner Gordon have yet to find people who were willing to pair up with the Sentinel. The Sentinels used the abandoned homeless shelters in Gotham. These shelters were abandoned due to the gangs trying to use it for their work. The pressured staffs left and no new ones came, leaving the shelters with a lack of man power, prompting it to close.


    But now the building were free and unoccupied, Zai decided to use it.


    Sentinels need not worry about gangs, they would take care of the minor inconveniences. Zion had already take with the Mayor, and he would be resigning after compiling his mess. He also picked out some candidates who would fit the position better.


    The front door slid open at the Sentinels approach, a small bot, white with black lines, that looked like R2b2 appeared from the inside. Sentinel removed the man from his back and handed him to the small robot. The Robot carried the man as if he weighted nothing and returned.


    The bot would take care of the man and keep him fed. This whole shelter was run by these small bots since they lacked human man power.


    The people would be taken care of and when they are top shape they will be found a job where they can sustain life. Zion didn''t want people thinking that the shelter is a free food service. This Shelter is for people who are struggling and those with petty crimes. Here they could change their lives instead of going to prison.


    The Gotham PD was already stressed enough. He didn''t need to send more work their way, they can deal with the serious ones,


    The Sentinel turned and walked away from the Shelter, taking a new patrol route to keep watch of the area. The people on the empty street scurried about, not wanting to be near the metal giant. The Sentinel cared not for that and kept walking.


    He need to keep the streets clean.


    ..


    .


    "Is is gone?" A man waring a black ski hat asked, shivering due to the coldness of the night and nervousness.


    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    The other wearing a similar hat with big brown jacket looked down at his phone, waiting for the signel.


    "Are we really planning on attacking the shelter?" A third asked, wearing a similar out fit.


    "This is nuts," A fourth shrieked in panic. "He killed criminals like ants and threatened the Big Head at their home ground. What do your think he is going to do if we attack his place?"


    "Calm down," The second slapped the man on the back, "We are already committed. Black Mask would kill us if we backed out now."


    The other nodded their head in agreement. Each of them had something owed to Black Mask and they were now paying it back. This was their assignment, to attack the Shelter as a retaliation against the New king''s rule.


    *Buzzzzzz*


    The phone vibrated and the man looked at the message.


    He looked at the other, "Get the gears."


    The others moved and removed the lid of the craters, revealing a high-tech guns. This was the weapon Black Mask had given them for this assignment. The Guns looked really expensive, letting them know that this was a serious weapon.


    "Ready?" He asked,


    The rest who were silent walked from the darkness and took the weapons. About 22 were armed with the new weapons, ready to use it. They all nodded.


    "Okay, we hit, break as much as we can and leave quickly as possible," The man noted, "If the plan doesn''t go well, disperse."


    THe men then rushed from the alley to the streets with the guns powered up. They formed a line across the street before they took aim at the shelter. The twenty or so blaster charging up lit the street, and the people who notice the gang, ran away immediately.


    Gothamites have strong life saving instincts.


    *pew pew pew pew* *pew pew pew pew*


    The shots were fired, the power behind the blasters pushing the men off their feet, some even thrown back. The men watched expectantly as the blue ray collided with the Shelter. They waited for an impact, an explosion, for destruction.


    Yet non of their expectations were met.


    The Blue ray dispersed without causing any damage or effect. They just dissipated as if water on a furnaces, turned it to steam.


    [ Aggression Detected ]


    [ Neutralize ]


    The men who took the shot were confused and shocked, looking at their weapons as if they were toys. The High tech gun did nothing, absolutely nothing. It couldn''t even scratch the paint off the surface. With the realization that they were duped, and sacrificed, the men threw their weapons and dispersed.


    Yet they could not take two steps before the retaliation shots were fired. All the men turned to cube and felt to the floor with a *click*. The blue glowing cubes and the thrown gun was the only evidence of the transgression, no damage or impact frames, just silent retaliation.


    [ Task complete ]


    [ Clean trash ]


    The shelters doors slid open and a single sphere bot tolled out of the the door. The bot rolled straight until it was sitting on the middle road before it extended its telekinetic field and captured all the evidence and rolled back into the shelter.


    The road was clean of any evidence and was back to normal.


    Those who were hiding were shocked to see how fast the things were resolved. They couldn''t believe that a gang attack had ended in a moment. Normally, this kind of threat would have taken hours before Batman came to solve it.


    But there was not need for that now.


    The information on the attackers were informed to the Sentinels and they immediately tracked down the subjects identity, where the weapons came from and where they met today. With all the cross reference they found the guy who gave them weapons, who he was, where he was and is now.


    It took less than a 2 seconds to get all the information on the guy.


    [ Name : Roman Sionis]


    [ Identity : Black Mask ]


    [ Crimes : Organized Crime, Murder and Torture, Kidnapping, Bank robbery, Arson, Human Trafficking, Assassination, Racketeering, Drug Manufacturing and Distribution, Fraud, Terrorism, Bribery, Counterfeiting, Illegal Weapon sales. ]


    [ Location : The Black Mask Club, East End ]


    [ Sentence : Eliminate ]


    [ Commencing protocol ]


    [ . . . ]


    [ Commencing Mission Year Zero ]


    [ Punish all criminals ]


    [ Sentence : Eliminate ]


    [ Targets : Oswald Cobblepot (Penguin), Edward Nygma (Riddler), Harvey Dent (Two-face), Selina Kyle (Catwoman), Jervis Tetch (The Mat hatter), Harleen Quinzel (Harley Quinn), Hugo Strange, Victor Zasaz, Arnold Wesker (The Ventriloquist), Garfield Lynns (Firefly), Julian Day (Calendar Man), Lonnie Machin (Anarky), Dumfree and Deever Tweed (Tweedledee and Tweedledum), . . .


    Flacone, Maroni. Viti, Galante, Bertinelli crime families. ]


    All the targets were established and found.


    The mission commenced earlier than intended due to Black Masks intervention of trying to check out the Shelters defense. The Sentinels were suppose to concentrate on establishing order before apprehending the criminals.


    But well, they messed up.


    Showing retaliation against a guy who thought them as noting but trash means a clean up.


    The Sentinels all received their orders and began to move immediately, They were strong and advance enough to take on an army aline. They now only need to take out petty criminals with primitive weaponry and meatsacks fore army.


    They were nothing but standing targets.


    ...


    Batman swung through the dark skied of Gotham, his cape whistling though the air. He rolled on the roof to break his fall and sprinted across the roof before he jumped across the edge.


    He was hunting, tracking, following his target. A sentinel. Gordon had informed him of the mission the Sentinels have received. He only got a notice due to him being the commissioner, just a note. Sentinels only got orders from Zion or Zai, no one else could command them. They were sentient soldiers with an undying loyalty.


    With Gordon informing Batman, he immediately began to follow the sentinel closest to him. The Sentinel which was standing still and just observing began to move. The people who were near freaked out, but calmed when it moved away from them.


    The Sentinel marched through the near empty street, its slightly smaller body shifting as the nanobot rearranged itself for combat. Its framed thinned, allowing for mobility. Its hands shifted a bit, the weapons under loading up.


    This was an elimination.


    The Sentinel then turned to the ally, its colors darker to blend with the night. the blue eyes turned dark. The Sentinel climbed the stares silently, its heavy metallic body almost weightless. Its body twisted and turned like a perfect barley dancer, its limbs following a smooth motion.


    Batman recognized the building, his hands moved quicker as he shot his grappling hook to the top. He jumped off the roof, the grapple pulling his body faster. He latched on to the fire exit, climbing it faster, parkour though it to reach the destination.


    The sentinel already arrived at the targets location,


    The target was wearing a messy t-shirt, and was in her underwear. She was slouching like a cat, drinking warm milk.


    Her head turned and looked to her window, her senses tingling of dang. Her eyes widened as a shock plastered to her face. The dark figure looking though the window, standing so tall that it was bend inhumanly to gaze at her.


    No words were spoken.


    The hunter was here to catch the prey and the twisty little cat won''t be escaping.

 70 - White and Black

    The blinding violent lights died as the seven know emotions gathered at his hand.


    The Guardians were frightened by such display of power, to gather all that power in one hand. They feared the effect of such power on a mind, power of corruptions and they were not prepared to deal with such threats.


    Their powers have not returned fully.


    They didn''t want another Volthoom. They were not ready to fight another bloody war. They should not have led him to Oa.


    Zion looked to his hands, he was holding the very power of the cosmos, just a few steps shy from total control. He could not yet access the hidden forces that are sealed within the source wall. They should forever be kept there.


    The hidden forces were dangerous, a single moment of weakness would doom the universe.


    Zion now turned to different emotions, ones that were prevalent yet not so seen. First came the light of Joy, a golden light like a comforting morning breeze.


    "In the light of joy, we find our way, Bringing Brightness to each day. With Happiness, our guiding ray, we rise, come what may"


    The sparkling light showered Oa in its brilliance, condensing to a small form of a golden figure, one similar to a child. The ethereal being radiated boundless joy, one that was pure as a child''s. This was embodiment of Joy, Euphori.


    "Come," Zion requested,


    The child giggles as she condensed into ring forming around Will and Love. The guardians were overwhelmed, the new light had been condensed. A new force awakened.


    Zion wasn''t done yet, "In shadows deep, our hearts mourn, Through grief and loss, our strength born. With sorrow''s power, we sworn, Flickering lights, Guide the forlorn."


    A grey light flooded Oa, drowning all in sorrow, dragging their sorrows out. Many collapsed, crying in shear sadness of their fates. They could not even look up. The sadness hidden deep overwhelmed them.


    The light condensed to a form of a curled up snail, radiating a sorrow of loss.


    Zion didn''t command it as it condensed next to compassion and hope. Creating the tenth ring, a major part of the emotional spectrum.


    "This should be enough."


    With it, Zion now had all the light he need to call upon Life. With the lights gathered, she would be attracted here.


    A moment later a White light of Life encompassed Oa.


    Unlike before, Zion was drawn into the Light, untraped by his control. The Light of Life was powerful, more than the Emotions. Light that birthed it all. Zion surrounded by white light stood alone.


    "Why have your called upon me?" A voice asked, "The war of light not yet here."


    Zion turned, his eyes met with the one that looked similar to the Oans. But he knew she doesn''t look like that. Its a form that she had taken the form of the oldest lifeforms of the Universe.


    "The war will not arrive," Zion stated.


    "I know," She agreed. "Yet, war of light is inevitable. The blackest Night must be defeated."


    "He will be," Zion spoke, confident. "Join my quest, become the spear that will End the Night."


    The entity looked at Zion, to his soul and emotions. She could see the lives he held, ones that were beyond this universe. Each a complexity than those that lived here. Yet she could not see death in them. No, they have defeated death many times. Yes, these live held live of millions, a web that spread across the omniverse.


    "I shall lend you my powers, Zion." She answered.


    Zion nodded and felt her presence condense. The white light condensed into the eleventh ring, encompassing the emotions. Containing it all within it. With the white Light condensed, Zion''s preparations were done.


    Zion took a step forward, crossing many spartial units in a moment and clasped his hand around the fleeing object. The instant he touched, the black light tried to seep into his body, to gain control. But others lights rippled the darkness, battling its control.


    Zion didn''t wait and slapped the object into the spinning rings of light. The Black ring of Death dissolved into pure black as it was imprisoned within the rings. Zion began to force his will into the light, connecting to the concept of death.


    All turned void as a black skeleton appeared. Holding its syth it looked down at Zion, its predatory eyes looking to consume Zion. Yet, Zion was protected by the white light and the assistance of the other emotions increased its strength.


    "Kneel," Zion ordered,


    Chains manifested in the void, its clanging echoing in time. The sheer force used here would be enough to move a solar system. Each chain, this and strong, bound Nekron. The embodiment of death. The Blackest night.


    The chains pulled.


    Nekron retaliate, yet he couldn''t retaliate. He was weak and his powers were countered by Life. The chained pulled, dragging Nekron to his new prison withing the rings. The black dissolved, the darkness of death sealed.


    Zion now stood at the empty space, far away from any life. Nekron was good at hiding, if he hadn''t felt the ring, it would have ran away. Zion now held the power of a cosmic force, one powerful force of the universe that governs sentient.


    Zion reached to his hand and pulled the Spearhead of destiny. The nth metal shaft will not be needed any more. Zion closed his other hand, compressing all the power into a single sphere. The sphere had a white outlive with a black fill with different colour specks floating in them. Life and Death, and the emotions in-between.


    The sphere morphed, turning ito a shaft, perfect for the spearhead.


    Zion brought the spear head near the shaft. Tendrils of black and white extended from the shaft, they sung into the spearhead, connecting with the divinity in the spear. The space rippled as the forces coiled, Essence of life and death existed in the spear, bonding with the White and Black.


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.The spear head fitted perfectly ot the shaft, a new weapon formed.


    A new Spear of destiny, far more powerful than before. One that was just shy of ready to slay some fake gods. He fear only one GOD and those faker would meet his blade. Zeus would be the one to trouble him, then the main faker of other pantheons.


    He hoped they would not come after him because, he need some powered fighters in his army. He didn''t want to end a whole set of Pantheons because their head couldn''t think. Zion shrunk the spear and hung in on his waist. He need not worry of who would steal it.


    No one could touch his weapon.


    Zion took another step, reaching Oa. He returned above where he summoned the entities. The whole city was a mess. The earthquakes he had sent with each summons had caused too much damage, non irreparable. Yet he felt a bit guilty.


    Zion willed, forcing reality to shift and return the place to what it was before. The building were restored in a moment as if they never broke.


    Those that were recovering from the destruction watched in awe as all of it vanished. The guardians looked to the Sky, watching the tall figure who stood confidently. They now regretted bringing him to Oa, their arrogance had clouded their judgment.


    Maybe sealing their emotions and acting as if it all just inevitable had corrupted their judgment.


    Maybe Ganthet and Sayd were right? They have lost their ways.


    Maybe the peace they have is nothing but a fragile shell.


    "Guardians, your purpose is not yet done," Zion spoke as he turned to the side, where space torn open.


    From the space appeared the Zamarons. The tall and slender blue females, counter part of the Guardians. They were different than the guardians, who had changed their appearance in the Eon of their existence. They appeared back in Oa after staying separated from the affairs of the Guardians.


    They weren''t here for the Guardians, their leader clad in the power of Violet. It was dim and drained, the crystal shattered in her hand. They were here to find the reason.


    Another two appeared, these looked like guardians, yet they wore blue robes and used the power of hope. They were beckoned by the Light of Hope.


    "Thank you for gathering here," Zion spoke with authority, "I hope you all will drop your differences and work for the betterment of the Universe."


    Zion wasn''t asking.


    The Maltusians didn''t answer. They understood the one before them held so much power, incomparable to the one they hold. There was no defying, there was not fighting. They could only choose to compromise.


    Zion looked away from them to all those that stood below, in their original form without their uniform. Their rings were destroyed when he summoned Ion. He willed the power from the spear, forming new rings for the Lanterns. The rings glowed with different colors, ones with even mixed colors. The hundreds of rings, floated like stars before him.


    "Go, Choose your champions," Zion ordered.


    The ring shivered before they flew away from him. These new ring had little limitations, yet harder restrictions to use. They rings would choose only the best of champions, who would stand true in a fight. Those that truly felt the emotions with untapped potential.


    The rings flew and choose their new champions, the new Lanterns who will fight for peace of this universe. They would become heroes.


    Some rings chose the former Lanterns, Including Hal, Senestro, Bookika and Kilowog. THey gained different rings. Hal gained Will, Kilowog hope with a specks of will, Boodika Anger, Senestro fear and will.


    Some more were also chosen and other flew to the space, to find their new champions.


    Zion brought a new age of Lanterns. "The champions will be brought here to train, Train them well," Zion gave them orders before vanishing.


    The Maltusians were silent. The Lanterns turned to Guardians for explanations. The Guardians looked at each other. They have to deal with the mess now. They all collectively agreed to follow, to continue what they did before, to protect peace.


    "This is a message to all Lanterns, Gather," The Guardians sent a message.


    ...


    Zion appeared back home.


    His room in the crystal city. He detransformed, returning to his human form. His cloths returned to normal. He removed the long coat and threw it to the hanger. He stretched his neck, his face relaxing. His reached for the spear at his hip and laid it on the table next to him.


    He walked forth and dropped to the couch, one long and comfy. Created just for him to have the most comfortable sleep.


    *Meow*


    A cat meowed.


    Zion turned his head to the sound. The white and grey Kucing cat with strips running all over its body lazily walked towards him. It them jumped up, landing on his chest. It laid down without a care, purring as he strokes its back.


    The cat closed its eyes, going into sleep mode.


    Zion looked at his cat, "Lets sleep then, Eon."


    Zion closed his eyes, his hands gently stroking his cats. The two drifted to sleep, Zion in the warmth and purring of his cat and Eon in the warth and heartbeat of his owner.


    ..


    Zai who watched this didn''t disturb Zion. But he was really was in a pickle. Superman had come to the city with Wonder Woman and he doesn''t look pleased. I mean, who would not be when everyone who wants to meet Zion go to him.


    *****


    I added the cat part because my cat died, His name was Eon. He will be here now.

 71 - Quest

    Diana left the temple with a complicated expression. The Olympians had given her a quest instead of answers¡ªa quest to hunt a man who had overpowered her with power. But they had given her their blessings, strengthened her body, and blessed her armor.


    "Is everything alright, Diana?" Queen Hippolyta, her mother, asked.


    Diana looked up, her eyes revealing her turmoil. "The Gods have given me a quest."


    Her mother dazed for a moment before she reined in her emotions. She was not the queen for nothing. Yet, a quest from the gods had not been given since the age of man. They had mostly stopped interacting with mortals.


    But a quest given should not be underestimated. The queen nodded her head; she could do nothing but pray. The quest was Diana''s alone, for her to complete, and the gods gave nothing for free. She hoped that her daughter would be strong. The quests given by the Olympians were always hard, almost impossible, but the valiant could conquer such trials.


    "Do not worry, Mother. All I need to do is bring him to the island," Diana assured.


    "Beware, nothing is easy, Diana," the queen warned. "I will prepare things for your departure."


    Diana nodded. "I will get ready."


    The two women then walked out of the temple, separating as the queen went to complete her duty and prepare for her daughter''s departure. Diana returned to her room in the castle to check her blessed armor.


    Her metal armor didn''t have any special effects like glowing or stardust. She didn''t think much and wore her armor. She sheathed her sword and bound her shield. She needed to finish this quest as fast as possible so she could receive her answers.


    But to defeat Zion, she might need to get good ;)


    Diana returned to her mother, who was waiting by an empty spot. Diana knew what was parked there. The invisible plane. She had left it parked there since her return. She walked to her mother, who was holding a belt.


    "Mother," Diana called.


    "Diana," Hippolyta answered, "This is for you."


    Diana looked at the golden belt with beautiful patterns, at its center a bird cradling a burning flame.


    "Mother, this?" Diana recognized the item.


    "Wear this, my child. You will need all the strength," Hippolyta spoke with a mother''s grace, yet her voice was firm, accepting no rejection.


    Diana didn''t speak more and accepted the belt, wearing it on her hip. The belt twisted around her hip and fit perfectly. Diana didn''t immediately feel the difference; she had yet to activate the artifact. The belt was the Belt of Gaea, which gives immense strength to the wearer.


    Which had helped Hippolyta defeat Hercules.


    "I will take my leave, Mother," Diana said before she boarded the plane. She was visible through the invisible plane and took to the skies.


    ...


    Diana returned to the base in D.C. She immediately met up with Trevor, who had returned from a long meeting with the high chairs. He had been called to these meetings since his return from Mars. They had asked him about Nion''s technology and capabilities. They had drilled him with questions for something that could give them a way to defeat this threat.


    Yet, all he could give was nothing. He could not give more information than they already knew. The team he was leading and he was knocked out the moment they touched the black grounds. They had no memories after that. Then, when he woke up, he was sent to D.C.


    Trevor also learned that Diana was well and had to leave home in urgency. He was disappointed that she had left without a word, but he also understood her. So, he was elated when she came back searching for him.


    "Trevor, you are well," Diana spoke to the short man.


    "I am," Trevor had to look up to speak. "Did you find what you were looking for?"


    "I have not gotten the answers yet," Diana replied, a little down. "But to obtain them, I need to present Nion before my gods."


    "What?" Trevor freaked but calmed his voice and pulled Diana aside. "What do you mean by that?"


    "I have been given a quest by the gods to bring Nion to Themyscira," Diana repeated. "It is my quest, and I shall complete it with the blessing of the gods."


    Trevor lifted his hand to stop Diana and rubbed his head due to the forming headache. "First, your gods are real? The Olympians?"


    "Yes, they are. I have assured you many times," Diana answered.


    Trevor wanted a drink, but he decided to continue. "And they asked you to capture Nion, the guy who is basically the emperor of Earth?"


    "Yes," Diana answered.


    "Diana, have you even met the guy? I saw his fight a giant in a planet-shattering fight," Trevor had seen the footage from Metropolis, at least the blurry clips of it. And if he were to go by the reports and analysis, they did break the planet.


    "I do. I have fought him, and sadly, I have been defeated," Diana replied. "But I shall not lose this time. The gods have blessed me."


    "Ugh," Trevor groaned. From the tone Diana was talking, she was going to go even if he tried to stop her. He hated how stubborn she was. Since he didn''t know how to stop her, he decided that he could at least help her resolve this peacefully.


    "I will help you," Trevor said.


    "This will be dangerous," Diana spoke. She didn''t want Trevor endangered.


    "I can''t stop you; might as well join you," Trevor resigned himself and turned back to the office. "Come, I will find a way to meet him peacefully."


    Diana followed Trevor. Trevor called some people and found a way to contact the King. The governments had no way of contact. The contact with the top authority was one way.


    But the analysts found a way. It was to contact the Sentinels in Gotham. Since the Sentinels were under his direct command, they should have direct contact.


    "I might have found a way," Trevor turned to Diana. "We need to go to Gotham."


    "Okay," Diana agreed, "But let us get some help."


    "Help?" Trevor asked.


    "Superman." Diana walked forward.


    And that''s how all things came to be. Diana met with Superman by literally shouting his name, causing Clark to take leave. She also then informed him of her quest, which made Superman, who understood Zion''s importance as the ruler, come with her to Gotham.


    They came to Gotham and met a Sentinel near the shelter. They were then teleported to Crystal City. Superman was annoyed by the fact that Zion had yet to return from his trip with the Green Lanterns and he was now here on leave.


    "So, why don''t you take a seat, Superman?" Zai pointed to the couch. "Please, I will arrange some cuisines. I have some of the best chefs."


    "Zai, where is Zion?" Superman cut to the chase.


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there."He just returned from the meeting with the Guardians and is taking a rest," Zai replied. "He seems really tired."


    "It is fine, I can wait for him," Diana spoke up.


    Superman looked at Zai. He needed to know something. He wanted to know what Zion was doing. He had read the reports that Lois had collected after the Sentinels took control. Gotham''s crime rate is now zero. The big heads were taken down, and the small tails were cut off. There was no one to run the underworld, or more like the underworld didn''t exist.


    He had talked with Kara and Lois about Nion; both seemed supportive of him. He also had checked the world. Nion was doing more good than any government had ever done. He had stopped wars, sent supplies to impoverished nations, and even established methods to cultivate food on their own. Nion was making the world a better place than any before him.


    He was not just fighting some supervillains and calling himself a hero. He was changing the world. He was even helping North Korea, yet no one knows about it.


    So, he can''t let some gods mess with it.


    "You can leave, Superman. We will take care of it," Zai assured.


    Superman nodded. He trusted Nion. He had already fought with unfathomable beings. Superman was then teleported away, leaving Diana and Trevor alone with Zai.


    "Well, why don''t I show you around? It sure would be boring if you stay in a cooped-up space," Zai turned to the door, which slid open silently.


    The duo followed Zai out of the room, which led to a pristine hallway and an elevator. They ascended for a few minutes before the elevator stopped. The doors slid open slowly, revealing another hallway. They traversed the hallway, seeing the light dim and the red sky at the end.


    They crossed the hallway and arrived at a familiar structure, the Roman Colosseum.


    The whole Colosseum was crystal white with red sand on the ground grinding against their feet. And they were not alone in the Colosseum. Sounds of clashing weapons and shouts of anger filled the Colosseum.


    Wonder Woman turned to the sound, watching as a woman backflipped away from an array of attacks. She was immediately followed as one used a whip to lash at her while the other shot arrows at her.


    But the woman deflected the attacks with her weapons and landed. She immediately lifted her weapon and met the twin blades from slicing her head. She twisted her club, moving the force away from her before kicking the attacker away.


    She then smashed the arrows that came towards her, but her weapon was wrapped by the enemy''s whip.


    Lashina pulled, trying to remove the weapon from Barda''s hands, but she was outmatched. Barda grabbed the whip and pulled. Lashina was easily lifted off her feet and got a club to her face.


    With Lashina thrown away, Gilotina rushed with Artemiz as her assist. The arrows flew from weird angles while Gilotina aimed for the openings. Barda moved nimbly around the arrows and clashed with Gilotina, even redirecting the arrows towards her.


    The exchange continued and Barda outsmarted the duo at every turn, keeping them on edge before she went full force and clobbered both Gilotina and Artemiz. She also bloodied and bruised Lashina, who woke up in the middle.


    With the three out of the fight, Barda stood tall with her weapon. Mister Miracle popped up with a shower of glitter, handing Barda a bottle of water.


    "They still wouldn''t listen, huh," he said as he received the bottle from Barda.


    "It''s not easy to break the centuries of brainwashing," Barda sighed, trying not to show her frustrations. She had been trying to make them understand, but they always tried to fight her. So Zion let them have their weapons and fight it until they couldn''t.


    She was also fine with beating the ever-living shit out of these brats. They would keep her on edge, perfect for combat at all times. She couldn''t slack off¡ªDarkseid was still alive. His threat would always be on the horizon, always, until his death.


    "Barda," Zai called.


    Barda turned to Zai, noticing the duo that followed him. The man looked like a military officer, and the woman, a warrior. A warrior different from her and yet so similar. They both could tell with a look.


    "This is Diana, princess of the Amazons, and Steve Trevor, her handler," Zai introduced. "This is Barda and Scott."


    "It is a pleasure to meet a fellow warrior," Barda greeted.


    "It is mine," Diana replied.


    The men gave an acknowledging nod to each other.


    "Can I know who they are?" Trevor questioned.


    Zai turned to the bloodied trio. "They are the Furies of Darkseid. Barda here is tasked with cleansing their brainwashing. It has been difficult."


    Zai then turned to Barda. "I know you have a request, but Nion will be busy. You can tell me of your wishes and I can arrange things for you."


    "I just wanted to ask him about Darkseid. As for my request, can we go to Earth to spend our free time?" Barda asked.


    "Of course, you can," Zai agreed immediately. "You can use the device I gave you to do so. I will update it with safe locations for you to travel."


    "Thank you," Barda replied.


    {After this, chatgpt wrote it without my consent}


    Zai nodded and then turned to Diana and Trevor. "Let''s continue."


    They moved out of the Colosseum and through another hallway that led to a vast room filled with advanced technology and a large holographic map of the world. Zai tapped a few buttons on a console, and the map zoomed in on Themyscira.


    "We have been monitoring the activities of various regions," Zai explained. "This is Themyscira, your home. We ensure that it remains protected from external threats."


    Diana was impressed by the level of detail and the concern shown for her homeland. "Thank you for this."


    Zai smiled. "It''s the least we can do. Now, let''s discuss how we can help you with your quest."


    As they conversed, a portal opened in the room, and a figure stepped through. It was Zion, looking tired but resolute.


    "Zion," Diana called, stepping forward.


    Zion nodded. "Diana. I hear you have been given a quest by the gods."


    "Yes," Diana confirmed. "I must bring you to Themyscira."


    Zion sighed. "The gods and their demands. Very well, I will accompany you. But we must ensure that our departure does not cause unnecessary alarm or disruption."


    Trevor interjected, "We need to plan this carefully. We can''t afford any mistakes."


    Zion agreed. "Let''s prepare. We leave for Themyscira at dawn."


    With the plan set, the group dispersed to make their final preparations. Diana felt a mix of anticipation and anxiety. The journey ahead would be challenging, but with Zion''s help and the blessings of the gods, she felt ready to face whatever lay ahead.

 72 - Meeting idiots

    "Urg," Zion groaned as he found himself being pulled from his escape.


    But as he turned to the side to avoid getting up, his body was pulled from the solid ground and was sucked into the abyssal maw, falling forever. Zion screamed as he extended his hand to grasp at hope. However, even as he found his grip, his mind was kicked out of the darkness.


    Zion blinked open his eyes, finally realizing that he was wake.


    "Get off," a recognized voice spoke with annoyance at a close range than convenient.


    Zion turned his head and met Kara''s eyes, her deep blue eyes stare straight back into him. Zion heart skipped a beat, her face was too close. His mind kicked to overdrive and multitudes of through flew, all imaginative.


    Yet, Kara put a hand on his face and pushed him away, ripping him off from clinging to her. Zion was hanging on Kara''s shoulders. Ripping Zion away from her and dropping him to the floor, Kara turned around to leave.


    *Meow*


    An annoyed voice of a cat and it furiously lazy eyes stopped Kara in her tracks. Eon sat on the floor as it gave her the stare, he was pissed that his bed was disturbed. Especially when he was sleeping on it. Kara stared at the cat and left.


    Zion rubbed his head and butt, a light pain telling that he was back to reality. He groaned, turned and crawled towards Eon before laying next to it and rubbing its head. He didn''t want to deal with this universe now, he wanted some sleep.


    Why are people even causing him trouble after he became cosmically powerful? He could end the universe with the thought, for christ sake.


    Zion closed his eye and tried to return, to the dream land of unknown.


    "Zion, Diana is here at the Olympians request," Zai spoke through without appearing.


    Zion hugged Eon and shut his eyes tight, "Ask her to come tomorrow."


    "Barda wants to leave for Earth, I gave her a glitcher," Zai stated and continued. "Most of the prisoners are sent back to earth. The Mechmorphs are chilling and the Martians are recovering. The world is at peace and will continue to be.


    I have also found the kids."


    Zion opened his eyes, only by a slit.


    Zai continued, "If you deal with the Olympians, we could have the time skip soon. So what you say?"


    "Urrrrrrgggggggggghhhhh," Zion groaned loudly, causing Eon to run away. "Fine! I will go deal with them."


    Zion lifted his hand and went through the list of forms, "I am not going to even give them the grace of best form, they can have the Worst."


    ***


    "Thanks, Kara," Zai said.


    Kara just nodded, she was more than happy to annoy Zion. You could even say that she would enjoy doing it just to spite him. Kara was called by Zai to wake Zion up. He knew how cranky Zion would be if he was woken in the middle. He was like a toddler, without enough food and patients, no one could deal with it.


    But he had the perfect targets who would be Zion''s outlet. The Olympians.


    "Why go through this trouble? I could have woken him up," Barda asked, she was confused.


    Zai took a step to the side, "You will understand soon, Barda. Diana, you could leave with Zion. I will have a conversation with Trevor."


    Diana turned to Trevor and he confirmed that it would be fine. He needed to talk with the top guy too.


    "Do you want me to go with them?" Barda questioned. "I don''t think it will be God to meet the gods alone, especially in their home ground."


    Barda''s concerns were non unfounded, she had seen many backstabbing in the days she worked for Darkseid. For those with insurmountable arrogance, they sure are short fused. Killing those that opposed them and all other thing involved.


    "You can if you wanted to," Zai didn''t care for the Olympians, they can die thousand worse deaths for all he cared. "But just be cautious to not get caught in their conflict."


    Barda agreed to go.


    "GOD help me," Zion arrived where Zai was standing before.


    "Nion?" Diana asked as she looked down at the creature.


    The round yellow, fat, blob-like creature wearing a black underwear with golden strips. His feet like elephant with three toes, and bear-like hands with three claws. The dwarf of a creature that was like it was made by an annoyed god looked at them with annoyed eyes.


    "You are going like this?" Kara asked, unflinched. She was gaining resistance to Zion''s shenanigans.


    The Worst wobbled forward, "This is all you are getting today. Let''s get this over with, Zai take us to Paradise Island."


    Zai sent a message and the glitcher tore space and placed them at the shores of Thymescira. Diana looked around, surprised that they arrived straight, the magic wielded by Nion was formidable. It was able to see through mystical Barrier formed the island.


    Worst, Barda, Diana and Kara stood watching the live forest, thick with natures glory.


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    "Diana, show the way," The Worst spoke.


    They all followed Diana, with Worst wobbling behind them. He was slow and lazy, causing other to slow down. Zion was also annoyed that he was slow. But he would rather endure this than come in a presentable form for the Olympians. They don''t even deserved the disrespect of Rath.


    Kara who finally had enough, grabbed Zion and began to drag him as she walked. Zion didn''t mind, he was indestructible and couldn''t care less.{I would like to have an image of this. Maybe soon} Worst left a trail as Kara dragged him through the forest into the Amazons home. The greek styled stone huts and paved roads, trees growing all around with all women armed.


    The amazons greeted Diana, showing no aggression towards the visitor. They just looked weirdly at the yellow creature that was being dragged around. They knew that Diana went on a Quest and deduced that the yellow creature was the hunt.


    Amazons didn''t comment much about the creature but congratulated Diana on completing her quest. Diana, Kara, Barda, the trio of women with Worst, arrived to me Hippolyta. Hippolyta was confused and joyful that her daughter had returned safe.


    "Diana, have your quest been completed?" She asked.


    Kara lifted Worst with ease and showed him to Hippolyta. The Amazonian queen was taken aback seeing such creature. She didn''t know why the Olympians wanted him, but there should be a reason.


    "Hi," Worst voiced, he had no interest. Not even in the island filled with women, he was too annoyed to think.


    "Mother, we will meet the Gods at the alter," Diana spoke.


    "Okay," Hippolyta agreed.


    The trio then dragged Worst to the alter, which was a few minute walk. Worst just let himself drag around as he closed his eyes to sleep. He need a nap. But exactly when he stepped into the dream realm, Kara threw him on the alter.


    "I have returned, the Gods of Olympus. And I have brought Nion," Diana knelt.


    Kara and Barda just stood straight. Worst just laid on the floor like a dead rag doll. The twelve statues surrounding the alter opened their eyes. Their divine gaze bore authority, demanding all to kneel. Barda stood still, she was the captain of the Furries. She doesn''t kneel no more. Kara who was also feeling the pressure was angered, she released her fulled force and strained her muscle, standing straight even as the floor cracked under the pressure.


    As for the Worst, he just tanked it. He was already laying down so there was no effect on him. He just shrugged off the pressure.


    With all the eyes opened, light flooded the alter, drowning them. The blinding light slowly dissolved, however, they were no longer in the alter. They were standing at the center of a hall, adorned with twelve pillars that seemed to extend to the heavens. And under each of these pillar was a throne adorned in gold.


    In these 12 magnificent throne, two among them were taller. On the big throne sat a man with sturdy build and a full on white beard. He wore a gold bandanna around his head. His eyes held lightning as he gazed at the new arrivals.


    On his right, was a women so magnificent and beautiful. Her held pride of noble, dressed in dark green, with golden braced on her hand.


    One her right was a man with robust figure, wearing a armored cloth while slanting a trident by his side. Next was a women with a mature aura, kind and stubborn. Then was a women fully armored, with an owl sitting on her helmet. Her shield propped on the throne.


    Then came the twins, who looked like the male and female version of each other. The male had a golden hair, glowing with light. He was blatantly showing his lean body and muscles. Next to him was his twin, wearing a hunters outfit, she covered everything. Both of them had bows.


    Then came a man in full on armour covered in dried blood, his blood drenched spear next to him. His gaze pierced Worst as he laid disrespectfully. Then it turned to the two women who stood tall even under the gaze of the twelve olympians.


    Next to him was a women who was dressed with a blanket, exuding an aroma. Next to her was a man who looked normal except he had wings on his feet and a winked helmet. Then a man who was contradictory, He was muscular and was a bare man.


    Finally a man who smelled like wine and beer.


    "I greet the Gods of Olympus, It is my honor to be in your presence," Diana spoke while still kneeling.


    "Get up, child," Hera beckoned, she had a motherly tone as she spoke to Diana. "Yet I couldn''t say that to your acquaintances," Hera stared at Barda and Kara.


    Barda turned her gaze to Worst who was not giving a shit as he slept. They collectively decided to ignore Worst.


    "I don''t kneel, no more," Barda said with pride.


    Kara didn''t even bother replying. She was just looking around. She had read about the greek gods and she didn''t like them a bit. Not one bit. She just wanted to shove Zeus rod into his mouth and chock him with it.


    So, she decided to not respond.


    "Forgive me-


    Why did you ask me?" Worst cut Diana as he turned and laid on the side, scratching his butt.


    The pride of some were being scratched but they decided to keep calm. They waited and seethed in silence. But Worst couldn''t care less about the pride of idiots.


    "Nion, hand over the spear of destiny. Such power should not be wielded by a mortal," Hermes spoke, his tone implied that he was helping him.


    Worst lifted a bro, "Really? then why didn''t you get it before? It was laying on a bunker all these years."


    "There was no need to, it was safe in the bunker, unbothered," Hermes elaborated. "But now you possess the weapon. It is now wield and it is dangerous."


    "hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm," Worst hummed long, annoying them. "So you don''t want the spear because a prophecy said it would be your doom?"


    Hermes'' gaze sharpened.


    "So, you just want the spear?" Worst asked, conjuring the spear in its shrunken form.


    But the Olympians were shocked to see the spear, well except Zeus. The spear of destiny now had an additional power. The Full power of the Electromagnetic spectrum. To wield the light of life and death and all known emotions.


    Worst played with the spear, "But why should I give it to you?"


    "Mortal creature, do not cross your limits," A voice thunder with lightning. "Surrender the spear and you may leave with your life."


    "Na," Worst spoke, still laying on the ground. "I am not gonna give more power to an insecure little brat with no self-control. Go drink some milk and grow up."


    Veins popped on Zues'' head. Other Olympians looked grim, well Hermes and Dionysus was trying to not laugh. Hera was appreciative that Nion said it to Zeus face.


    "And all of you, don''t act like you are better. Hera, jealous little shit, who can''t even control her husband. I would call him a dog, but it would be an insult to dogs. On yourself centered way of control, you can only bite on those that your husband couldn''t control his dick.


    You suck as a mother, it was good that you threw one, since he is the only one who is remotely better in all of you. The ones you grew became a prostitute and an incel. Good grooming of children."


    Hera was beyond furious.


    "Poseidon, no wonder you are the brother of Zeus. He follows your steps. You rapist bastard. No wonder people want to put crap on ocean." He then turned to Athena.


    "Oh the women of wisdom, just not with enough brain to use it. Really the best thing to do your rapped worshiper is to turn her into a monster. You dump little shit. Even a first grader knows better. You are just a coward who couldn''t stand against your uncle.


    Apollo that stalker, really nice of you to cause a women to literally change her anatomy to escape from you. And your sister who thinks she is above all. Both of you are really the offspring of Zeus. Nice job.


    Hermes, I will let you off because you are human and that''s an insult. Hephaestus, I will also let you off the hook since I need you to forge me something.


    So, in total suck balls idiots. You are not getting my spear and trying to regain control on earth. I am its king.


    Ah, cherry on the top. Diana is Zeus kid."


    Worst literally angered all of them whole lying down on the ground. The Olympians looked red with rag, a pressure beyond comprihension blazing over the hall. Even Barda and Kara struggled to stand. Diana was have a hard time breathing, mostly due to learning she was Zeus'' daughter.

 73 - Ending Rules

    The enraged Olympians summoned their weapons, ready to smite the transgressor. They would not take such disrespect, especially to their faces. Well, not all of them showed fury towards Worst, just the idiots.


    Hermes, Hephaestus and Dionysus were only responding due Zeus'' anger and Hera was angry at Zeus. But due to her fear of Zeus and Vows, she could not go against him.


    "Wait," Worst shouted, "Let me get up first."


    Worst''s words cut through the tension as he used the spear to get up. His bloby body jiggled as he struggled to get back on his feet. After a painfully long moment, he finally stood still and faced forward.


    "Okay, Go!"


    The Olympians, who had enough of his antics threw their attack at him. The others couldn''t even react as the attacks reached Worst in an instant. Zeus'' thunder, Apollo''s arrow, Ares'' spear, etc, all converged into a reality destroying attack.


    *Boom*


    Kara, Barda and Diana were thrown of their feet due to the shock wave, however, they were unharmed. They felt their ears ring while their skin felt burned. Barda quickly recovered from the shock as she summoned her mace, Diana was the second to and Kara got to her knees as she looked to where Worst was.


    Worst was standing tall unharmed by the attacks, not even the floor was cracked nor charred. They then moved their eyes to Olympians. Their eyes widen like the rest of the Olympians. Zeus, the king of Olympus was dying, impaled by the spear to his throne.


    They saw as the mighty titan struggled to pull the spear form his chest as it drained him of his divinity. Tendrils, sharp like the void and bright like the light, dug into his skin and the ground. Zeus was helpless as he used the remaining lightning to fight, but to no avail.


    At the end he turned into a husk, drained of power and life.


    Worst willed the spear back, The spear ripped off Zeus'' corps, scattering the body to dust.


    And Zion wished he could do just that and be done with, He turned his eyes to the so called gods. His contempt was visible at his gaze. The twelve of them sat as if they were mighty, arrogance had blinding their eyes.


    "Nion, hand over the spear of destiny. Such power should not be wielded by a mortal," Hermes spoke, his tone implied that he was helping him.


    "So, you called him for the spear?" Kara asked. "Why?"


    Hermes who was asking Worst turned to Kara.


    "That spear is a powerful weapon born of blood, it corrupts those who wields it." Hermes elaborated. "Now that it has resurfaced, we have taken the duty to seal it away."


    Kara tilted her head, "Then why didn''t you help when Darkseid invaded? Isn''t he like you?"


    Hermes sighed, a very saddened sigh. "We couldn''t, we have taken oaths to not involve ourselves with Mortals anymore. Moreover, those who you call Heroes would have stopped him anyway."


    "Hmm," Kara wasn''t buying that bull.


    Barda didn''t even speak, she looked to her employer who was sleeping on the ground. Since he was not responding, she stayed silent but ready. She knew how things like this went. It would end with one sides death.


    At the same time, she understood why they wanted the spear. A spear so powerful that it gave a mortal strength to fight Darkseid, it was not be a simple artifact.


    "So, Nion, will you hand over the Spear peacefully?" Hermes asked, revealing his intentions since non of them seem to believe him.


    "Nah, but you can have this," Worst voiced, confusing the Olympians.


    And before they could react, including but not limited to Zeus, multiple spears impaled them all. The spears were a replica of the Spear of destiny made with black light of death. From the spear, tendrils of void dug into the Olympians, draining of their life.


    Within moment, the struggling gods turned silent. Dead.


    Yet, Zion could only wish that he could do that too. He couldn''t kill all of them, he needed Hephaestus alive so he could make weapons for him. Of course, he could do it himself, he could probably do it better than Hephaestus.


    He just didn''t want the chore.


    "People cut to the chase, I would like to return to my sweet sleep. I am getting annoyed.


    Why do you need my spear. Buzzhead," Zion asked with no hint of respect.


    "Show respect before the you gods, boy," Hera released her divine presence.


    "I only got one God and he sure aren''t like you,


    And chill out, don''t take your marital anger on me, Hera. Am I to blame if your husband is a cheating whore and you have bound yourself to him due to selfishness." Zion said it. "I am not going to give you the weapon with enough power to end the universe and then some. I am strong enough to end you all and existence. Life and death, so show some respect."


    "Fool," Ares shouted.


    Zion didn''t moved and a black spear impaled his body like a stake and drained him of life and divinity. "Yeah."


    "So, how we doing this?" Zion asked as the gods rose in fury. "-Fight it is."


    Zion flicked, impaling them all with a massive spear turning them to kabaab. But he couldn''t do that too.


    "Darn, its like all my thoughts are fighting for my last brain cell, its very chaotic," Worst rubbed his head throbbing with headache.


    He could dispels the headache with the Spears, you know with all reality warping power. But it would be demeaning and he like that he didn''t need to control the rage. The unbridled fury, unchained by sleeplessness combined with infinite annoyance at the Olympians.


    Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    "Okay, why my spear? To gain back the power or you fear death," Zion cut to the chase. "I know that I can take out the whole of olympus with nothing but a thought. I could literally wipe you all with a thought. I could even rewrite your history, change all form of life. I am basically above you. So shut your tarp. you work for me now."


    "Yes ledge," The olympians knel-tal, are your listening?"


    A voice boomed Zion out of his daze. Zion looked around. The twelve still looked arrogant. God help me deal with these idiots. My brain is toast and I am really not in the mood of dealing with these idiots.


    Zion took a deep breath. He need to ground himself in reality for now.


    "Okay," Worst rolled to the side before he stood up. It took him a painful moment to stand up. "This is what you want, right?" He asked as he summoned the Spear.


    The eyes of the Olympians focused, a surprised shock visible in them. The Spear of Destiny they were expecting now had another cosmic force embedded in it. They were getting excited about having such weapon, each of them thinking about how they could rule with such weapon.


    Worst lifted the spear above his head, and spoke the words.


    "With this treasure, I summon..."


    The Olympians were confounded, yet Zeus roared. "STOP HIM!"


    The others didn''t know what was happening, but they followed. They raised their weapons to strike Worst down. Barda summoned her mace, Kara braced.


    Worst slammed the spear on the Mount, shaking the whole of Olympus. A shock wave pushing back the Olympians and dispelling their attacks.


    "Graveyard of Gods."


    Black void spread like tidal wave, veins weaving into a massive door with no decor. Death was its presence. Death of Immortals and god, ones forgotten and slayed. This was their graveyard. The doors creaked open with an eerie creak.


    *Boom**woosh*


    A wind filled with death blew from the other side. The void wind of non-existence blew into the mount created with divinity, the home of Olympians. The wind killed all that it touched, drained the place of life.


    The Olympians saw their death in the door, its void tendrils reaching them. Some panicked and ran, whole some tried to strike it down. Zeus was in the later category, rising his hand as lightning gathered, this was divine lightning, not energized electron conduction but more reality warping. The lightning embodied with destruction as it hurled towards Worst.


    Worst didn''t moved, he willed. Chains of black rose from the ground, smashing away the attacked and reached to bind the escaping gods. The wind brushed their face, draining life away with a simple breeze.


    "YOU DARE!" Zeus bellowed, his voice like thunder.


    His form expanded, his size grew and he shed his human facade. A titan, made of lightning, blinding to the eyes. A massive fist was thrown, full of power.


    Worst couldn''t move, the fist filled the whole sky in lightning. Zeus was trying to end it all with a single punch. But Zion had other plans. The power of the spear was reaching the very core of Olympus. He was here for something else, something that gave these idiots power.


    He used the full force of the Spear of Destiny, breaking the barriers of reality. Death reaching every god in the pantheon. He couldn''t risk one of them escaping. He saw one, Thanatos, god of death. fighting his death, fighting true death.


    The Mount Olympus was crumbling, Gaia was awakening.


    The Olympians attack, all forces converged into a powerful explosion. Worst could care less. He twisted the spear, finishing his work. A rumbled, a force unknown, shook the whole mount as the Gates of death closed. Worst pulled the spear form the ground. He encased himself and others in a bubbled of cosmic force, stronger than the one before, warping into a different plane as he sealed the whole of Olympus to keep the olympians from escaping.


    *Pewp* *BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    An explosion so strong that it dwarfed the thousand suns going supernova. The first shockwave itself turned the mount to dust. The second, ripped the bodies of the olympians to shreds. The thirds erased their divinity and form.


    Leaving everything white.


    The spear of gods, the mount of Olympus and Olympians were no more.


    What was left was a white space, but it was not done yet.


    *ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ*


    The explosion shrunk back, drowning the whole place in silence, creating a singular orb of energy. The orb floated in the middle of the white void.


    Worst floated towards it.


    "What have you done?" Diana asked in pure terror.


    The home of her gods gone. She had not expected it. She could never expect it. They had all gone in an instant and she could do nothing.


    "Your gods are dead," Worst muttered as he reached for the ball of energy.


    This ball of energy was the representation of the Greek pantheon. The faith of believers and Divinity from the Source. He had erased them all from reality, leaving them as their conceptual ideas. In short, he had returned them to how they were before birth, nothing but cluster of ideas.


    "But how? They are immortals," Barda questioned, she wanted to know how to slay a god.


    Worst showed the ball of energy, "Return them to their original form, the first thought, an idea. Of course, they are still alive. Given enough time, they will be born again.


    But..."


    Worst transformed. His body grew tall, about 8 feet. His skin turned bronze contrasting against the golden runes covering his skin. His eyes deep black as was his hair. His face looked other worldly, his jaws sharp, his muscles looked like they were sculpted by the best sculptor.


    In other words, he looked perfect.


    "To kill an idea is to change it, to create anew," He continued, his voice holding authority, "The idea that gave birth to them, the thought that gave them life. Its easy to change it."


    He moved the spear, however, instead of black, the spear glowed white. The force that connected all sentience. A force unequaled. He reached the minds of all living, searching for the ideas of Olympus and its gods. He reach the depth of consciousness, the collective sea of mind.


    He found the deep rooted ideas of Olympians. Even if they had lost followers in the modern times, The thought of their idea was still spread. Their mythos, even though hated, still known by others. This simple knowledge was the foundation.


    He change the foundation, he rewrote history, knowledge and ideas. He recreated the entire mythos of Olympians. He left the parts he like and changed that he didn''t. He was now creating a universe level version of fan-fic of olympians, one that''s true.


    He turned Zeus into a loving husband and Hera in a graceful mother, they were not married. He also added them some extra memories. Poseidon became the protector of all life on sea and looked after Atlantians. Hephaestus was loved by Hera and married his good wife. Aphrodite became a child, a love too pure. Ares was still angry, but a good big brother. Athena was a teacher, more gods and much more.


    Titans were still in hell, as all stories need villains and such. But they were going through their redemption arc. He didn''t change much of Hades, let the guy chill at underworld with his wife who would never cheat on him.


    Basically, he rewrote their existence, and of course this would lead to some problems. Such as the retaliations of the other pantheons in the fear of their death. But they can try. He ended one, one or two more was not a problem, but annoyance.


    After confirming that the story was firm and the ideas lack no plot hole. He released the ball of divinity. The energy would give birth to a new Olympus in due time. It might take a few centuries or so, but they will be back. As a better version.


    "Okay, work done," Zion stated as moved them back to Thymescira.


    Diana looked to be in daze as she turned to Zion, "Thank you for helping with the corruption. If you had not found, the god might have gone frenzy."


    "No need, I will be taking my leave then," Zion stated.


    "May the gods be with you," Diana spoke.


    "Neat," Zion took Barda and Kara with him.


    They arrived back at the colosseum, standing amidst the red sand. Zion began to walk forward in a hurry, he need to catch the rest of his sleep.


    "Later then," Zion waved at them.


    Kara who was silent since, spoke. "What did you do?"


    "What?" Zion asked back without stopping.


    "You didn''t heal any corruption," Kara stated, causing Zion to stop. "You killed their gods," Her eyes pierced him.


    "What do you mean, Kara? Did we not go help the Olympians deal with the corruption of their divinity. After finding about the source, they all died to be reborn, back to their true self." Barda spoke what she remembered.


    Zion stared at Kara intently before a look of realization flashed flashed across his face. Kara''s memories were not altered. She was not of this universe, he was only rewriting those of this universe. She had escaped the alteration.


    "I will explain later," He glitched away from the responsibility.

 74 - New power

    Kara watched as Zion run away,


    Even though she could have caught him and interrogated for answers, she decided to not follow. She didn''t want to be involved in Zion''s shenanigans, knowing would only cause her more headache. She then turned to Barda, who she felt was similar to her ¡ªSomeone who had gone through the darkest times and endured.


    "If you ever visit earth, you can give me a call to show you around," Kara suggested,


    "I will," Barda answered, forgetting the weird question Kara had asked, "I would appreciate it."


    "Meet you later, Barda," Kara said as she looked to Zai.


    He understood the gesture and teleport Kara back to where she was. He then turned to Barda, extending his hand and asked for the glitcher. It was a model made in hurry to get Barda in and out of Apokolips without leaving a trace.


    But he had already improved it.


    Receiving the glitcher, Zai replaced the item with a bracelet. It was a thick dark-blue bracelet, with neon blue runes engraved on them. The bracelet looked to be something from a tribal tradition while also appealing to the modern norm. It would not out of place if she were to wear any outfit.


    "I have also added some new cloths to your wardrobe, I don''t want you attracting much attention," Zai added.


    "Thank you, Zai," Barda thanked.


    It was at the moment when a wave of energy washed over them. Zai scanned the whole city the moment his sensors picked up the energy release. He immediately scanned the whole planet and the space. He confirmed that they were not under attack and changed the directive. He traced back to the origin of the wave.


    He found it to be at Zion''s lounge - All of this took 0.05s.


    He saw Zion standing with the spear of destiny at his hand. The power overflowing from the spear shuddered the space around him, bending and rippling as their strained under the pressure. Zai didn''t know why Zion was reacting like that as he could sense no one else.


    But without doubting Zion, he switched his sensors and used the mother-box in Zion''s room. The sensors he used was still not the best. It couldn''t see the unseen, more psionic and magical. However, the mother-box could.


    When he switched his view, he saw it. Those that had invaded. He saw people, with different cultural dresses and ornaments adorning their body. They all looked very different from each other, but one thing was common, their divinity. They were all gods from different pantheons.


    He couldn''t tell who they were exactly, but from deduction he could narrow the subjects.


    ***


    "Since you have infringed on my privacy, do not complain if I use my right."


    Zion was absolutely serious as he said so.


    He had returned to his lounge thinking he could returned to his peaceful sleep. His interrupted sleep had caused him to act irrationally for most part, including the re-installation of the Greek pantheon. He had missed the opportunity to get himself some sla-workers. Hephaestus would have helped in creating some artifacts that were beyond ordinary.


    But his plan didn''t go as planned.


    His room was filled with intruders who looked like he owed them something. Like he owed these self-righteous butts. He immediately recognized who they were and decided to exercise his right. He was going to end them all.


    However despite Zion pure display of anger and power, they remained calm. They acted as they could deal with his attack. They had already prepared to fight to death if their cause went awry but also at the belief of Zion''s behavior. As a King, Nion couldn''t be a hot headed idiot who would kill those that came at peace.


    But they had clearly underestimated annoyance of a man with lack of sleep. Especially of the one who was called to work as the first thing. Zion was really planning on ending them, then and there.


    It was not a display of power to exert dominance.


    But to their rescue, Zai arrived at the scene. He turned to the intruders with a calm expression. His eyes turned to Zion and gave him a cup of coffee, one that was strong enough to keep him awake for three days. Zion looked a the coffee before looking at the idiot and drank the coffee grumpily.


    Zai also added some cookies,


    Zion took the cup and eat the cookies silently for five minutes undisturbed. No one wanted to disturb him. While Zion calmed down, Zai moved the things in the lounge and created new long couch for the intruders to sit on, and added them beverage from their country.


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    He was setting this up to be a meeting, with Zion at the head of the table.


    Zion finished the cookies and breathed a hot breath. He was letting his annoyance and sleepiness out. His head cleared as the coffee took effect in his system. He was able to think clearly while putting his anger to the back. He then lowered his head and looked to the other at the others that were present at the table.


    The first one to his right was a woman who was wearing the white kimono adorned with golden thread forming a golden sun on her back. She was also wearing a hood that covered her face, leaving only her delicate lips visible and flowing black hair visible.


    Zion didn''t need anyone to state who she was,


    Then to his left was an one-eyed Old man, wearing something like a suit. It was mostly armored with ornaments of crows on both of his shoulder. He could see the bloody scars of battle and an aura of a scholar.


    Then was a man with dark skin, wearing a remodels Egyptian Pharaoh''s garments. His eyes looked radiant and powerful. wearing golden ornaments that glowed brighter even in the crystal city. His eyes were focused on him.


    Next was a man with three eyes and a snake scarf. He dressed like some monk, a bead necklaces way larger around his neck. He could feel the power of destruction flowing from the man, like a ferocious wind seal behind a calm stature.


    To the next was a man with too much hair, his node was pressed and a golden crown around his head. He was wearing an armour that looked like a suit. Zion looked gazes with the Monkey, a subtle exchange of nature.


    Then was a man who was similar to Zues, but his face was not that ugly.


    Then to the giant in the room. He was visibly bigger than everyone here, even though everyone else was bigger than Zion. He sat silently as if he was ready to through some hands anytime.


    Zion''s eyes glazed over everyone else. He didn''t need to give them much attention. He also figured why they were her for the most part. Even if they have not paid serious attention to him, his power was undeniably reached them.


    They hadn''t moved like the Olympians, instead opted to watch from the back. Well, they now learned that a whole pantheon was gone. They didn''t really no what really happened, but they moved when they could not feel the power of the Olympians.


    They thought them to be dead,


    They were here to protect themselves, even when the best of the Olympians were slayed. They came for a parley. What can they do when one of the pantheons, the greatest of them and kindest of them were slayed? For reasons they knew not.


    "Who is going to speak?" Zion asked bluntly.


    The so called gods didn''t react much to his words. They were the strongest in their respective pantheon, even if a fight broke out, they had confident that they could survive.


    "Should you not reveal your true form?" A voice mature and soothing, asked.


    Zion turned to Amaterasu, "So, will you be their spokesperson?"


    Amaterasu turned to the others. Seeing that no one objected, she turned to Zion. "It seems so."


    "Okay," Zion sighed as his height increased and golden runes appeared around his body. His Dress turned in a tight combat suit, clearly more modern than the others. The pressure he exuded matched their, even the oldest of them. Zions form was also tall and strong.


    He couldn''t remain a human when speaking to them. If they think that his other form was his disguise, he should let them think that. Zion new od form didn''t have its divinity from the source. He was not exactly connected to it as he shift form constantly.


    "Why are you hear?" Zion asked.


    "You know," Amaterasu pointed.


    "I do? So...all of you didn''t arrive at the right time to halt my sleep and invoke my murderous rage, prompting me to go on a killing spear and end all of you. Seemed like a good guess," Zion muttered.


    "Well, we were here to question you on the disappearance of a pantheon." Amaterasu spoke without a reactions to Zion''s words.


    "If you mean the Olympians, I just put them on reset, no dead yet," Zion revealed. "I hope you won''t be trying anything with their recreation."


    The gods stayed silent, contemplating his words. How can one reset the whole pantheons and why? This had never happened before. The so-called gods have never gone through rebirth, even when they followers forgot them. They just died.


    "Can I know the reason?" Amaterasu asked.


    If she found the reason, maybe they could prevent it from repeating.


    "They were infected by the Great Darkness," Zion spoke but apologized in his mind.


    If he pointed the blame to a primordial being who existed even before these idiots, who doesn''t care much for good or evil. But always represented as the evil. He didn''t think anyone would blame him. He also apologized in case he was targeted.


    But he also need to heal the Darkness of an idiot''s influence. Now that he remembered it, he was getting annoyed at how much work he had to do.


    ''Wait! Since I am going to form a link anyway, should I get my divinity from him? That would be cool with all the shadow magic I can do!''


    Zion grinned as he realized all the things he can pull. If he gained power from the infinite darkness itself, who is a neutral force, he could basically be undefeated. At that point, he didn''t need to prepare the heroes of this earth to fight the cosmic war.


    But he also realized something,


    ''Wait, aren''t I already strong enough? Can''t I just teleport there and beat them? Why am I going around in circles to advance this earths technology and strengthen the Heroes? Why am I making a perfect world?''


    Zion had a quantum realization. He was already too strong, well maybe not as much as DC''s plot armour, but He could fight a war by himself.


    ''What am I doing then?'' Zion asked himself.


    The so-called gods stayed silent as they watched Zions expression kept changing in deep contemplation. It seemed as if he was going through some enlightenment. And they didn''t want to disturb the guy who helped stop a catastrophe.


    They stayed silent because they understood the severity of the situation. Being influence by the great darkness would have caused the Olympians to go mad and they might have been also inflicted by it. It was good that it ended.


    Zion lifted his head, his eyes shone with new light.


    Zion turned to the so called gods, "I hope you all know how dangerous the situation was. It had to be done."


    "We do," They nodded in agreement.


    "Since you understand, I hope you all a good ride back," Zion asked them to leave, politely.


    "Can we at least know of your pantheon?"Amaterasu asked, trying to find Zion''s background.


    Normally they would not allow a new god to rule over their home ground, but since Zion was not influencing them as a god but a mortal, moreover, healing the Darkness''s infection. He had helped them, even if it had benefited him the most.


    "I am the righteous hand of GOD."

 75 - contemplation

    Kara was suddenly teleported back home, finding herself in the familiar open field. She had been lounging in her room when Zai urgently contacted her. Responding quickly to the emergency, she was then teleported to wake up that idiot. She couldn''t fathom why Zai would ask for her help instead of handling it himself.


    Shaking off the puzzling thoughts, Kara made her way back toward the house.


    *Click.*


    The door clicked open, breaking the serene atmosphere of the warm home.


    "Kara," a voice greeted her as she stepped inside.


    Looking up, she met the gaze of her cousin. Clark was seated on the couch, a white envelope in his hand. Kara approached, her eyes attempting to scan the contents, but the envelope''s cover was impenetrable to her vision. She turned her questioning gaze to Clark.


    "I came to talk about this and something else with Mom," Clark explained.


    He had come to seek Martha''s counsel about the two things Zion had given him. His mind had been a whirlwind of confusion in recent days. Unable to decide on his own, he visited Martha for her motherly wisdom. She hadn''t given him a definitive answer but had instead provided clarity and direction.


    "What''s in the envelope?" Kara asked as she took a seat beside him.


    Clark handed the envelope to Kara. He had already read the letter multiple times. She took the letter and began to read:


    ---


    [Hello there,


    It''s Nion, the King of Earth, Emperor of Sol, but that''s not the point.


    I''m reaching out to you about an initiative called the Justice League. I''m assembling a team of extraordinary individuals, and you''re at the top of the list. Your commitment to justice and the hope you bring to the world are exactly what we need.


    As you''ve seen, the threats we face, and will face, are too vast for any single hero to handle alone. By joining forces, we can make a greater impact and protect more lives. You''ve already achieved so much as Superman, and I believe you can do even more as part of this league.


    So, what do you say? If you''re interested, keep this letter with you. I will call. Looking forward to the day.


    Yours truly, Nion.]


    ---


    Below the letter was the time and date when Nion would call, set for two days later.


    Kara looked up, understanding the gravity of the responsibility that Clark was contemplating. She could empathize with him. Clark had always been a lone warrior, bearing the burden of protecting countless lives by himself.


    The prospect of joining a team introduced new dynamics. As a solo hero, he didn''t have to worry about others (heroes) during fights, taking the brunt of deadly attacks while safeguarding civilians. But working as part of a team was uncharted territory, fraught with its own challenges¡ªthe need for trust, the potential for conflicting ideals and methods among teammates.


    Yet, within this uncertainty, there was a glimmer of hope. Clark could see a future where he could help more people, extending his fight beyond Metropolis to the entire world. However, his skepticism towards Zion persisted. Despite the positive changes, Clark struggled with Zion''s methods, even if they ultimately succeeded.


    "What are you planning to do?" Kara asked, handing the letter back to Clark.


    "I don''t know. The idea of being part of a team and helping more people is appealing. But I''m not sure I can trust Zion, not after everything that''s happened."


    Kara nodded, sharing a complicated relationship with Zion herself. She still harbored a desire to punch Zion occasionally, but she had come to understand him, even if a little.


    "I think you should at least hear him out," Kara suggested.


    Clark looked at her, puzzled. He knew Kara''s disdain for Zion was stronger than anyone else''s. Sensing his confusion, Kara elaborated.


    "I still don''t like the guy. But his actions speak for themselves. He''s making changes on a scale you haven''t achieved in years of hero work. Yes, his methods are questionable, but they''re effective. So, I think you should at least listen."


    Clark sighed, acknowledging her reasoning. He folded the letter and tucked it into his jacket pocket. He knew that whatever decision he made could shape not only his future but also the future of countless lives around the globe.


    ...


    [Yello,


    It''s Nion,


    King of Earth,


    Emperor of Sol.


    I''m reaching out about the Justice League initiative. I''m putting together a team of exceptional individuals, and you''re invited. You''ve shown incredible commitment to justice and intellectual prowess.


    Stolen story; please report.


    As you''ve seen, the threats we face and will face are too immense for any single hero to tackle alone. By uniting, we can make a significant impact and protect more people. You''ve done so much as Batman, and I believe you can contribute even more as part of this league.


    Keep this letter with you. I will call. Looking forward to the day.


    Yours truly, Nion.]


    ---


    In the dimly lit Batcave, Batman stared at the letter. The soft glow from the Batcomputer illuminated the words as he read them with a simmering anger.


    Without his iconic cowl, his bare torso bore no scars of countless battles. In his other hand, he held a glowing cube. His recent confrontation with the Sentinel had ended disastrously. The relentless machine had neutralized his arsenal within moments, completing its mission with precision.


    It had eliminated Catwoman¡ªSelina Kyle, a professional thief and a well-known criminal¡ªbefore his eyes. He had been powerless to stop it as she looked at him with fear. Now, all that remained of her was the cube. He couldn''t comprehend why the Sentinel had chosen to turn her into a cube rather than vaporizing her with its disintegration ray. He surmised that there must be a way to restore her.


    "Master Bruce," Alfred''s voice cut through his brooding thoughts. "Would you like some water?"


    "No, thank you," Batman replied, refocusing on the analytics data.


    "I think you should," Alfred insisted, pouring water into a glass, the sound resonating in the quiet cave.


    Batman turned, eyebrow raised. "What is it, Alfred?"


    Unperturbed, Alfred continued, "I understand your anger, Master Bruce. But you must realize that it was inevitable. Zion''s move to clean up Gotham required the elimination of all criminals."


    Seeing that Bruce wasn''t convinced, Alfred dropped the pretense. "Selina is just sealed, sir. Zion informed me in case you, well, started plotting. He mentioned he would be annoyed to deal with your multi-layered plans."


    "Did he tell you why and how?" Batman asked, his gaze sharp.


    Alfred pushed the glass of water towards him. "He explained that leaving any high-profile criminal free, especially those known in the underworld, would undermine his authority. This was his way of giving Madam Selina a way out while maintaining his image. And, the water is for you."


    "Water?" Batman echoed, glancing at the glass.


    ---


    [Hello Flash,


    I know you''re probably skeptical and wary of this letter. How do I know your secret identity? How did this letter magically appear in your home? Don''t worry. This isn''t a threat¡ªit''s an invitation.


    I''m reaching out about the Justice League initiative. I''m assembling a team of extraordinary individuals. Your incredible speed, quick thinking, and unwavering sense of justice are exactly what we need.


    As The Flash, you''ve not only protected Central City but have become a symbol of hope and resilience. Your ability to be everywhere at once and your commitment to using your powers for good are invaluable qualities that would greatly benefit the Justice League.


    As you''ve seen, the threats we face and will face are too great for any single hero to handle alone. By working together, we can make a greater impact and protect more people.


    So, what do you say? If you''re interested, keep this letter with you. I will contact you soon. Looking forward to the day.


    Yours truly, Nion.]


    ---


    Barry read the letter at super-speed, skimming it several times to ensure he hadn''t misread it. He couldn''t believe that someone knew his secret identity and had magically delivered this letter to his home. The name ''Nion'' stuck out¡ªthe only Nion he knew was the King. It felt odd calling him that.


    Nion had appeared one day and taken over the planet, with governments surrendering without resistance to his overwhelming power. Barry hadn''t intervened because the other heroes, including Superman, had chosen not to oppose him.


    Observing the positive changes in the world, Barry conceded that staying out of the conflict had been the right choice. Nion was effecting transformations, albeit mostly in Gotham.


    But now, this powerful figure was extending an invitation to him, a hero from Central City. Moreover, he knew Barry''s secret identity. Although the letter claimed it wasn''t a threat, the potential risk to his security made Barry hesitant.


    Breathing deeply, Barry considered the opportunity. If the letter''s promise was true, he could gain allies¡ªsomething he had longed for. Being able to share his secrets and burdens with fellow heroes brought a sense of relief.


    However, doubts lingered. Could they work effectively as a team? Would they understand his approach to problem-solving and his relentless optimism? Barry knew that being The Flash was more than just moving fast; it was about thinking and acting swiftly. He wondered if the others could keep up with his pace.


    Calming his racing thoughts, Barry felt


    a mix of apprehension and excitement at the prospect of new experiences.


    ...


    "Your Majesty," J''onn J''onzz bowed his head respectfully.


    Martian Manhunter held a pristine white letter, written in the elegant script of the Martian language. Unlike the invitations sent to others, this letter had a more commanding tone¡ªit was an order from Zion, though disguised as a choice. Yet, it was an order he couldn''t refuse.


    "Do not feel burdened," King J''emm reassured him, seated regally on his throne. "This opportunity is not just for you but for all of M''arzz. With the transformations we are undergoing, we can no longer remain isolated. It is time for us to expand and explore."


    "I understand, Your Highness," J''onn replied, acknowledging the broader implications of J''emm''s words.


    Martian Manhunter had stayed on M''arzz to help with the ascension of the new king, just in case of a protest. His help had been crucial in J''emm''s ascension to the throne, deterring the voice of other.


    However, J''emm''s actions had also proven his worth.


    Despite his youth, King J''emm had demonstrated remarkable maturity since ascending to the throne. Even though his appointment was controversial and opposed by many, including the former king, Zion''s decision to place J''emm in power had proven wise. J''emm''s leadership quickly became apparent through his actions.


    One of his first decrees was to grant the A''ashenns equal rights, elevating them to the status of full citizens alongside the G''arrunns. Surprisingly, this radical change encountered minimal resistance. The shared scars of war and collective trauma had forged an unprecedented unity between the two races.


    J''onn J''onzz now understood why Zion had instigated the conflict. The war had compelled the once-divided Martians to unite and fight together. This newfound camaraderie was dissolving old animosities.


    King J''emm''s vision extended beyond mere social reforms. He was spearheading environmental advancements, aiming to transition his people from their subterranean existence to the surface of Mars. With Zion''s transformative interventions, living on the surface was becoming viable. Under Nion''s guidance, new settlements were being established, large enough to accommodate the majority of the Martian population.


    These changes, though gradual, were profound.


    Amid these transformations, preparations for J''emm''s wedding to S''yraa S''mitt were underway¡ªa symbol of both personal and political unity.


    As M''arzz began to stabilize and flourish under his leadership, King J''emm set his sights on the cosmos. Despite their formidable powers, the Martians knew they were outnumbered by their galactic neighbors. They needed to grow and prepare for future challenges while the opportunity for peace still existed.

 76 - Normal Day

    A day later,


    Zion woke up from his slumber, feeling refreshed by the good long sleep. He pulled away his thick blanket and turned off the air conditioner. He had his room at low temperature while sleeping under a thick blanket.


    "The cozy sleep of heated blanket against the cold winds. Ha, what a sleep it was."


    "You woke up."


    Zion appreciation for his momentary peace was cut by present voice.


    Zion''s mind raced as to figured our what was happening. He then quickly turned the AC back on and pulled the blanket over, he quickly returned to sleep, trying to escape his reality. He shut his eyes shut, not wanting to dealing with his life anymore.


    ''God, help me.''


    "It not gentlemanly to let a woman wait," The pleasant voice spoke again.


    Zion grumbled at the voice, pulling at the blanket tighter. He didn''t was to deal with this, especially this early morning. But the voice on his head told him that his day was already ruined.


    He could only continue.


    *Sigh*


    Zion sighed in frustration while he got back up and out of bed. He walked straight to the kitchen counter to turned on the coffee maker. The sound of tricking coffee echoed in the room as he turned to the pleasant voice.


    A women, wearing an oversize hoodie made of fine silk and a baggy pants sat on his couch. She sat their like a fine sculpture that would make any artist fall on their knees. Yet, Zion could only frown.


    Unlike normal mortals, he was not swayed by godly beauty. His constitution allowed for no such things. He was a solid rock among the tidal waves of influence.


    Or he thought so.


    "What do you want, Amaterasu?" Zion sipped the freshly brewed coffee.


    Amaterasu smiled like the morning sun at his words, her face half covered by the hoodie. She had stayed behind after the meeting to further establish the covenant between Zion and the Pantheons. They both would not interfere in each others affair, and would help each other if needed.


    Zion made it clear he wanted to do nothing with them, and as long as they kept out of his way, he would let them be.


    But what intrigued Amaterasu something else. He cared not for them, nor did he fear them. It was given by the power he held. His perfect form held powers similar to their strongest, yet they felt no divinity from him but Faith.


    It was as if his power came from believing in something else.


    It was such a bazaar concept that others didn''t even want to address it.


    Zion in his human was still radiating a glow of faith, even if he did not want to. Maybe he doesn''t even know it.{He doesn''t}. The glow was not strong but nevertheless it was still there. Amaterasu wanted to find what that was, who was giving this power to him.


    "Nion, do you believe in someone? A God maybe?" She inquired.


    Zion raised a brow as he sipped the coffee. "Why?"


    "Just curious," She replied.


    "I do," Zion spoke in a tone that implied he would not be answering anything more.


    "..."


    Amaterasu could only keep silent. Seem like he had caught on to her. {He didn''t}.


    Zion placed the cup on back down and looked at Amaterasu. His brain was a being hardwired. He could see Amaterasu''s soft lips and perfectly carved chin. From all he could see, he was sure that she would be an unmatched beauty.


    Even her voice was like a siren''s singing.


    His brain was trying to fight his body. He was a male without a female contact of years on end. He was also a kid from a town, his interactions with opposite sex were very conserved. So, having a beautiful lady in his room alone was making his imagination run a bit wild, even though he kept fighting each and every thought that popped up.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    He was getting a headache.


    "Zai," Zion called.


    ["Hmm"] Zai''s voice came from the coffee machine.


    "Is it ready?" Zion asked.


    ["What is ready?"]


    "The Sunstone," Zion asked.


    ["Yeah, they are ready"]


    "Okay," Zion replied and Zai left the machine.


    Zion turned to Amaterasu and gave a look that said, ''Sit still.'' Before he walked into the wash room. He did his morning routine and freshened up, He came out wearing fresh new cloths. A big white t-shirt that hid his toned muscles and blue jeans that went well with the fashion.


    "Where are you going?" Amaterasu asked as she got up, her lips curling into a curious smile.


    "Work," Zion answered as he walked out the door.


    "I am coming with you," Amaterasu spoke in an energetic voice as she rushed to catch him.


    Zion gave her a side gaze but didn''t stop her. With Amaterasu caught up with him, Zion took a tablet that was stuck on the wall. This was something that allowed him to view all the projects that was go on, there was one placed outside all the important rooms.


    Zion read the reports as he walked with Amaterasu in tow.


    "They criminals have been capture in Gotham, what''s left is to establish ourselves," Zion muttered as he read the report on Gotham.


    The sentinels have cleaned the place off rats and dirtbags.


    "We still need to renew the infrastructure, especially the rotten curse sealed underground," Zion sighed in frustration. "Couldn''t we have just blown it up sky high and rebuild it? We could have done that in a day.


    ["Citizens would be annoyed"] Zai answered,


    "Who cares? I am their king, I have the right to," Zion replied in an annoyed voice.


    ["We can''t just atomize someone home and replace with another. We need favorability points."]


    "Whatever, I will just clean it up in my next visit," Zion murmured. "Are the instruction on alterations of consensus been sent?"


    ["Yeah, added new laws to make it better."]


    "What about North Korea?"


    ["Doing well."]


    "Is communism bad?" Zion asked.


    ["Depend on the implication."]


    "Are the letters read?"


    ["Yes"]


    "Atlantis."


    ["Have no idea."]


    "What you mean?"


    ["Arthur is still roaming around, drunken"]


    "Urg," Zion groaned. "Find him."


    ["Done"]


    "Star Heart."


    ["You need to go by yourself."]


    "Armory."


    ["Need to expand mining procedure. It will be good to terra form other planets."]


    "Begin those, and find the coordinates of the other places."


    ["Done"]


    "The Police Box"


    ["Its a delicate process"]


    "Duration?"


    ["Year or two."]


    "What about the Martian settlements?"


    ["Stable Bioms have been established. The Settlements are underway"]


    "The Martians."


    ["They are recovering fine."]


    "Are the heads still thinking they could take us out?"


    ["*sigh* They are"]


    "Idiots," Zion couldn''t feel more disappointed. "How is the mapping going on?"


    ["Progressing smoothly"]


    Zion continued to check on the list of things that he had been doing and planning. Making sure that everything was going as planned. He also advice on improvement and redirected some of the plans in a different direction.


    In the ten minute walk, Amaterasu didn''t disturb him. She as a leading goddess knew how much work had to be done to keep people in reign. It was one of the hardest things to do. Zion completed more than hundred procedures and plan, leaving paperwork to Zai, who could do it in a second.


    They were working to improve the whole planet and welcome a new age. He would need the people to be ready, to fight and defend for themselves. If ever needed. He didn''t need some incompetent citizens.


    Zion arrived back at the main office.


    The office was colorful compared to crystal city. He had left it all white, since he didn''t want people to think that this is Frankenstein''s laboratory with the whole black decor. The whole palace would look like a nightmare incarnate in black.


    The office was colored deep blue with wavy pattern extending though the floor. The wall too shifted with many hyper realistic wallpapers to ward the fact of closed space. As for the others, all thing were one you would find in a ceo''s office.


    Zion walked straight to the closet and pulled the long coat out of it. Even though the long coat looked weird above his casual dress, he was not going to leave without his armour. He got some work to do.


    "Zai," Zion called.


    The wall opened and displayed a crystal that was colored metallic blue compared to its usual white. Zion had already finished analyzing the sunstone and devised a method to alter its components and structures, suiting his taste.


    Zion grabbed the crystal and pocketed it.


    He turned to leave but he nearly collided with Amaterasu. He backed away immediately, she even smell nice like the spring breeze.


    "Amaterasu, I am going out." Zion said as he began to glitch. "You do you."


    With those worlds, he vanished from the place appearing in the void of space. He could see the peck of light in the distant, even the blazing inferno in the distant. He turned to the grey celestial object and threw the crystal towards it surface at remarkable speed.


    The Crystal flew at full speed before it dug itself into Moon''s surface. The crystal began its work as it dug in and began to multiply. Crating a monolith of intricate structure.


    Zion watched it all with calm eyes, but he asked a question. "Do you think we have a Harem tag?"


    ["Why you ask?"]


    "We have been having too many woman trouble," Zion asked.


    ["I don''t think so. For all that gone down, we haven''t even met an implicit romantic interest."]


    "Really? I thought we have met plenty enough," Zion pondered.


    ["I don''t think so. All the women you meet are after your head."]


    Zion scratched his head, "sigh, no romance for me."


    {Do not worry child. Your future is in my control. o(£þ¨Œ£þ)£ä}


    The crystal quickly did its work as it constructed the base for a future project. This base had most of his advance tech. It would be an impenetrable fortress. It could even tank a supernova.


    "So, you were here," The pleasant voice echoed in the space.


    Zion turned to Amaterasu who appeared next to him. She watched the new base with curiosity but she quickly lost it. She then turned to Zion.


    "Are you not going to show your guest around?" She asked in a very convincing voice.


    Zion wiped his face in frustration. He could say not to that smile. "Let''t go."

 77 - Normal day #2

    -Gotham-


    Zion walked though the not so dense street as people moved about to their work.


    Him in his t-shirt and track suit with long over-coat attracted many weird gazes but not judging as they had seen enough weird. But the one who turned most head was the person next to him. Her elegance unhidden by the baggy yet cute dress only attracted many eyes.


    Her hoodie was still drawn to cover her face, but her natural beauty couldn''t hidden. The way she walked as if she was on a different plane, like a lotus among the muddy swamp, untouched by its filth. Those who gazed upon her could not removed their eyes. Walking in daze as the bumped into random objects.


    Zion had only brought her with him due to her insistence and his paranoia. He could let someone like her run around unrestrained. Not in his land.


    He ignored the people around him and observed the atmosphere of the street. The dark street of Gotham was brighter than any of his visits. He could see people smiling as they moved about with ease, not fearing of any muggers. Of course, they still tensed when they crossed some allies. Long time stay in Gotham had molded these people perception for danger.


    They had lived with fear while fighting for hope. With only Batman protecting them from Gotham''s darkness fully swallowing them. Zion could see that darkness had lifted a bit but they would still need time. In a distance he could see children surrounding the sentinel that watched over this housing district. This place was home to many cogs and gears that turned the machine known as Gotham.


    The children fearless unlike the adults, surrounded the sentinels as its sat one the floor to not frighten the children. The sentinel seem to enjoy the children''s curiosity. Zion marked the sentinel for evaluation of psych and left it at that. He had given is sentinels emotions so they could differentiate between right and wrong, but with emotions came many other problems.


    Then his gaze turned to the walk opposite, where people were drawing graffiti artist poured their heart out. Zion had allowed for such things as long as it was not something inappropriate. He thought the city need more color than its black gothic structure.


    He could also see some carpenters working on building as they tried to repair the damages. He also add some renovation project to Gotham. He should meet with the Gotham''s mayor to talk about his peaceful resignation and reinstate a new one.


    ''Should he put Bruce to do it?''


    The man is ruthlessly efficient in doing things. He could improve the city in day and night if I were to let him do it. He would also have more power to fight against crime. In the future Gotham would be a paradise compared to its past.


    So would the whole world, but he knew that darkness would always peak its head.


    He could use Cat-woman for that. He better use the pieces he had. Its better to have someone he control take over the underworld than some idiot. A good mafia that dealt with the underworld while also maintaining order.


    ''Should I become the lord of the underworld?''


    It was an increasing prospect. Like ''The King in the shadows''. But he already have so much work already. He would only be relieved after the establishment of Justice League. WIth a force that could stop most threat in place, he could relax.


    Then he would continue his adventure of the multiverse.


    "Something smells bad."


    The voice similar to a bird song, demanded Zion''s attention. Zion turned to Amaterasu from his sightseeing. He could see her cover her nose with her hands as if she had smelt something too bad. Zion knew she was not talking about trash or sewers but a different bad smell.


    Zion nodded and asked, "Can you try removing it?"


    Amaterasu nodded at the request and gathered her divinity. The sun on the sky brightened as the cloud dispersed. The sun light then intensified in a way that it spread warmth. Zion standing under felt his vitality surge and gain more energy. He then scanned the people around him and could feel their moods have shifted.


    The glittering sun light died after a second and amaterasu lowered her hand. Her expression showed that the smell had vanished. She had managed to purify that miasma from an evil entity that covered used Gotham as its breading ground.


    "So, you managed to purify the land," Zion spoke, "Well, more like suppressed it."


    "You know where this ''smell'' is originating from?" Amaterasu questioned.


    This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    From the minute she had stepped into this city, she could feel that bad odor waffling off from the ground. She tried to keep it away from her using her power but the smell only increased over time.


    Zion nodded, "I do. It is from as big bad who is kinda playing behind the scenes. Instigating many things with his power. It is also connected with the cursed land Gotham have build above. Too much negativity have gathered here."


    "You are planning to intervene," Amaterasu could tell.


    "Yes, I am going to," Zion replied as if her was talking.


    Amaterasu couldn''t help but be more intrigued by Zion''s behaviors. He seemed to be an easy guy on the outside, like a mirage covering the truth. Yet, he cared more and worked more.


    "Why do you care so much?" Amaterasu asked as the resumed walking.


    Zion turned to her with her eyebrows raised.


    "I mean, you are a god. You don''t need to concern yourself with the mortal. Even if the mortals were to die, we would be safe in our realms. So why bother?" Amaterasu inquired.


    As god, they cared not for mortals. The mortals lived under their grace, ants that hiding in the shadows of the monolith. Why would they worry when an ant die of the flood? Wouldn''t they be lowering themselves if they moved at every request of the Gods.


    "I do because this is my duty," Zion replied. "Why are we to be called god if we can''t protect those who need our protection. Is it not your roll to keep a crumbling balance? Who are we to think we are above all things?


    Even a mortal with enough power could do what god do with their divinity. We are just people with incredible power. What the point in not using it."


    "You speak of righteousness, yet you don''t seem to be a person to care about it," Amaterasu hit the nail in the head.


    "Well, you got to do some good to get away with a little bit of evil," Zion acknowledged. "But I am trying to make the world better."


    "Agreed," Amaterasu agreed.


    "So, want to eat something? You have any food you particularly like." Zion questioned. "I could get us the best reservation."


    "I do not like the food of the mortals," Amaterasu replied.


    "Okay," Zion shrugged. "Let us continue over stroll."


    Then they moved on through the streets before arriving at the squatting giant. The many children who were using crayon to adorn it in ornament. The silver metallic surface covered with many different childish drawing. Zion approached the calm giant, watching as the children climbed and slipped down.


    The giant reached to catch the child and place her to the ground softly. The other fearless children still tried to clime on his shoulders to sit on. Zion could only admire the fearlessness of Gotham''s children, all of them have that fear indicator bit loose.


    The Sentinel looking at Zion approaching him, tried to get up. Zion gestured the giant to stay silent as he approached the children with Amaterasu in two.


    "Hey kid, did you parents not warn you about dangers?" Zion asked.


    "What do you want, old man?" The kids turned to Zion.


    "Really, do I look that old?" Zion turned to Amaterasu.


    Amaterasu shrugged, she was not going to get caught on this.


    "Sister, you are pretty," A girl about five looked brightly at Amaterasu. Her lower size allowed her to look at Amaterasu''s face.


    Amaterasu seeing the pure eyes of the girl patted her head without a word. She normally never descend to watch the mortals since centuries gone. Seeing the child''s eyes itched her.


    "Sister, how are you so pretty? Can Anne be pretty like you?"


    The children started to surround Amaterasu, shooting her with hundreds of questions at a time. Zion turned from her, with the children distracted, he can talk with Sentinel. The Sentinel still squatting, focused its neon blue eyes at Zion.


    "How are things going?"


    [''Everything is going as predicted.'']


    "So, why are you sitting here being Children''s attraction?" Zion asked.


    [''Order states to be likable. From research its shows that children influence their children. SO, I though to be likable to children.'']


    "Zai put you up to it," Zion shook his head."What are we reenacting the Iron Giant? You are a highly advance technological life form."


    [''I am meant to protect and make people feel safe.'']


    "Hmm," Zion nodded. "You do you. Keep up the good work." Zion gave the Sentinel an encouraging pat.


    The sentinel still had its purpose ingrained, to follow the inlaid program. Of course, they could override and disobey order, Zai and Zion had wrote their code to follow specific conditions. Its like human brain, knowing what is right and wrong and following their core.


    As long as the Sentinels don''t rebel against him and fight for the wrong cause, they would be active. Zai would keep running a check on them when he got time. He should always prepared for another sector 666 incident.


    "Lets leave, Amaterasu," Zion called.


    Amaterasu struggled away from the Children and followed Zion. Zion walked around for a bit before finding one of the shelters. In the shelters he could see many people gathered. They were still scepticale about the whole thing, the robot, the free health care and all. But some thought of it as gods grace and ate the food given.


    Most people here were homeless and abandoned. He also saw some suspicious little dwarps snooping around, but they were of no consequence. He check on the list of people and how they were behaving.


    They shelters need to function properly to heal Gotham''s back allies. It would give them hope. Zion quickly checked Shelter and turned to leave. His visit was not noticed by any as they were very secretive. He was using Amaterasu to distract everyone.


    Zion have a mental thumps up towards Amaterasu as he walked out the shelter.


    *Thud*


    Zion staggered back, something heavy had hit him. Zion turned to what hit him, his eyes narrowing as he watched the woman covered in cut and bruise. She was clenching something in her hand. Zion could hear the light cry that was escaping from the wrapped cloth.


    "You okay," Zion asked immediately.


    "Help me, they are trying to kill us."


    The woman nearly fell to the ground. Zion caught her and supported into her into shelter. His eyes covertly scanned the street for who it could be. The sentinels wouldn''t have let this happen. They had eyes all around Gotham.


    ["She came though the sewers."]


    ["I found the culprits."]


    Zion didn''t answered and handed the lady to the medic-bots to take her. She still had the small baby in her hands as she was carried away.


    "Haa," Zion could only sigh. "How did this happen?"


    ["Someone new had popped up. Gotham''s underground is a good breading ground for these types."]


    ["I will move the sentinels."]


    "Nah," Zion shook his head. "Sent a message to Batman. I will check the sewers myself."

 78 - Hunting

    [ Target: Rosvon Cade]


    [ Gender: Male]


    [ Age: 32 ]


    [ Location: Gotham sewers ]


    [ Background: Hailing from a branch family of one of the crime families of Gotham. He was nothing but a simple handy man. Seem like he is stepping up to take over the owner-less underworld. He has been gathering tails, nothing big enough to pop in our radar.]


    "Okay," Zion spoke, "Did you find anything from the woman?"


    [''No sir.'']


    [''The lady is too distraught to answer'']


    "Keep her under surveillance."


    [''Will do. sir'']


    "What are you going to do?" Amaterasu questioned.


    "Well, its been longs since I stretched my limbs," Zion said with a grin. "I will continue my stroll alone. You are free to do what you want."


    Zion didn''t wait for her reply and walked toward an empty street and climbed down to the sewer. He covered his nose at the smell, nearly considering turning into something that doesn''t have nose.


    Zion just covered his nose and walked forward, returned to the opening the woman had climbed out from. He crouched down and check the footprints she had left. Light flashed from his coat and revealed what couldn''t be seen by the eyes.


    Tracks left by the lady led north. He could just follow them back.


    "If you are going to be here, be useful. Will ya?" Zion spoke to the dark sewers.


    "Why did you call?" Batman walked out of the shadow.


    He asked, having already scanned the location and tracks to where it would lead. He had already grasped the basic situation. But his question was why Zion called him. Especially after what had gone down between them.


    Zion was especially ready to throw hands with Batman.


    "You know, this and that," Zion said as he stood up. "So, thought about joining the justice league? It would be good if you joined."


    "Explain," Batman asked as they began walking.


    "The team would need someone to lead the group. Someone with enough paranoia to prepare for every situation. Moreover, I need a human among the In-humans that I am assembling.


    Can''t have masses shaking in fear." Zion began.


    "Superman is all about justice, but he forgets to think things through sometimes. Flash is fast and intelligent, but again, his thirst for justice makes him jump into danger without thought. Diana is a warrior, she will not back down from as challenger. Green Lantern is narcissistic, and wouldn''t obey anyone''s command.


    So are the other. All of them have the heart to fight justice, but in it, they forget about the dangers."


    "You need me to be their leash," Batman pointed.


    "You could be or, you could be their guide," Zion returned. "Of course, you will not be their defacto leader. You will have to earn it. They will challenge you all the way."


    "..."


    "Oh! I almost forgot," Zion faked an, I almost forgot, expression. "The JL will function as a separate entity from government body. Coming under no authority, even mine."


    "..."


    "So join the JL or at least just attend the meeting," Zion said as they arrived at the end of the tracks.


    They saw the way up, to a manhole. Zion''s wrist flash, displaying that he was directly below an estate. One of the estates that his sentinels should have cleaned up. The woman had climbed down and escaped through this.


    Zion looked up, "I will deal with this. So, attend the meeting Batman, otherwise..." Zion turned to the darkness. "I will make Bruce Wayne the Mayor."


    Even though Zion couldn''t see anyone in the darkness and Batman seem to have left, he knew that Batman would be listening. He was having easy time talking to Batman than Superman. He didn''t need to hide his feeling and his grey moral. Superman was a bit annoying to deal with. He sees too much good in humanity.


    Superman saw the bright light, but Batman lived in the darkness of the shadow hidden in the light.


    Zion didn''t expect any answer and began to climb ladder. He then slowly pushed the cover away, sliding it to the side and climbing out. He scanned the terrain for any hostiles, but the manhole was perfectly covered by the bushes.


    Zion checked for tracks around the manhole, before confirming that he was at the correct location. He moved near the bush before pressing the button on the collar. The collar instantly projected his helmet, covering his face while revealing that was hidden.


    He could see multiple heat signatures moving though the estate, guarding. Most held weapons, mostly normal rifles and pistols. But they seemed disorderly, Zion deduced that it was from the rough recruitment.


    He had cleaned the capable henchmen off the streets. Even if some were left, they wouldn''t have join anyone, they knew the difference between working for a head and a tail.


    And sentinels made good impressions on their first day.


    Zion quickly scanned the layout of the estate. This estate had a big garden and a bangalore at the center. This was a typical big boss estate, where the head of the crime family lived. But now it was the den of the detached tails.


    Zion smiled at the god given opportunity, he was feel itchy since he had been using the Omnitrix less. It was like having your favorite toy and not playing with it. However, he couldn''t do anything about it. Most of the alien were street level compared to what he fought.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    But these idiots won''t worth the sweat.


    "Who should I change in to? Should I go stealth or...?" Zion asked himself as he hovered his hand above the Omnitrix. His fingers tracing its faceplate.


    A golden disk projected out, displaying the aliens. His eyes scanned the many forms he could take, unable to decide which one.


    It was a deep trouble.


    *****


    Zion finally decided on the alien he wanted to use,


    A golden light flashed.


    "Hey, did you see that now?" Goon 1


    "What?" Goon 2


    "A light flash,"


    "I didn''t see anything, are you sure?"


    "Yes,"


    "Where then?" Some rats might have sneaked in," Goon 2 lifted his rifle, ready to shoot.


    "There," Goon 1 pointed with his own.


    The two goons looked at each other before they divided as one moved towards the bush to check if someone was present. Goon 1 took careful step towards the bush, his fingers on the trigger. His gulped as nervous sweat formed on his head, pure tension coursing through his body.


    After two steps he arrived next to the bush, moving quickly to locate the intruder. But what he saw was ice laying on the floor, reflecting the setting sky. The goon turned left and right, trying to see if someone was hiding.


    Confirming that no one was present, he moved to check the ice. He crouched to touch the ice to notice that the ground was fully frozen. At the revelation, his eyes narrowed as he bounce back to his feat. He turned immediately to his friend to inform him of the threat.


    Only to see an ice sculpture of his friend. Frozen as he stood guarded, not even aware of his fate. The goon stumbling back reached for the radio at his waist, only to feel the coldness of ice through his shaking hands.


    He looked down, his communicator cascaded in ice.


    He gulped, sure of his fate. He was a Gothamite, not some metropolis goon. He has seen the cruel darkness of Gotham. He had worked under different villains and seen their methods on dealing with enemies.


    If his guess was right, he was being targeted by Mr. Freeze.


    Not just him but the whole gang.


    "Wrong," Spoke a chilly voice into his soul.


    The goon frozen in fear, notice the frost forming on his skin. Yet it was too late as two large green eyes materialized before him. He screamed in fear, yet no sound released. His cry stuffed by the rapid formation of Ice. He was eternally frozen into a sculpture depicting pure horror. The green eyes then vanished, leaving not sign of its presence except the two ice sculptures.


    This repeated as the goons around the estate were frozen into horror depicting statues.


    *Bzzz*Crack*


    "Is everything okay there?" The voice spoke from the communicator. "Answer, team 3 has gone offline."


    A hand reached and crushed the communicator,


    The goons in the estate began to panic as the intruder seemed more than capable. They tired to deduce who it would be. Some saw the ice sculpture that were guarding the estate. They quickly deduced that it could be Mr. Freeze, but didn''t know if it was really him.


    The goons went to battle mode and crowded the hall way leading to the main office. They didn''t try to moved the boss in case of an ambush. Clearly the intruder was aiming for the head.


    On the hall before the main office, the goons huddled together aimed their guns. They fingers ready to shoot down anything that moved.


    "Isn''t it a bit hot?" A question, asked in an ghastly voice.


    The question was followed the rushing cold wind, a tidal wave of ice rushing towards them. In an instant the whole hall was frozen by ice. From the plants to the rich painting on the wall to the the light were frozen solid. The goons legs were only frozen to the point they were attached to the ground.


    Their trepidated breath condensed as they shivered at the chill. They couldn''t see their opponent, nor can they moved to avoid the attack. Their only way was to confront and be frozen.


    They were beaten too many time to not know their fate.


    "Its cozy," The ghastly voice spoke like the grim reaper as the figure of a blue cloaked ghost.


    "Shoot," A goon screamed as he pulled the trigger.


    *Pew* *Pew* *Pew* *Pew* *Pew* *Pew* *Pew* *Pew* *Pew* *Pew*


    ....


    The rain of bullets echoed inside the office, making those that stood guard feel a rise of nervousness. Their cold sweat made them aware of their cold surrounding and the condensing breath.


    The room was getting cold, condensation forming on the glass window. The target Rosvon Cade rubbed his hand due to the cold, his breath condensing before him did not help his rattling soul.


    This was the first time he was standing at the forefront of an attack by an unknown enemy. He was not uninformed like the other. He knew that Mr. Freeze was removed from the asylum. But this was not his methods.


    Mr. Freeze would have frozen the whole estate instead of acting like a ghost.


    *Pew*


    The final should of bullet echoed in the silence that followed, increasing their anxiety to the max. The gunman griped their weapons tight. They were shitting their pants but they would not go without a fight.


    They had fought Batman many times before. Quitting didn''t bring them here.


    *Click*


    The door handle twisted, its lock snapped back covered in cold. The door slowly opened, cold flooding the room. The cold made them shiver so did the sight of blue. The whole hallway and 20 or so men frozen solid. Each of them looked desperate as they stood frozen.


    The men gulped, their throat sore in cold.


    "Is it too cold?" Asked a voice, directly behind the target.


    The man startle jumped forward, crashing into the table. The goons turned and pointed their guns at the book shelf, fear gripped their hearts as they found none. Their cold sweats began to froze but they were already too frightened to notice.


    "We need to get out of here," Rosvon Cade ordered as they retreated.


    The two guards flanking him, slowly moved towards the bookself on the side. Rosvon pulled 5 different book, prompting the shelf to slid open. The guards slipped into the hidden passage with Rosvon, leaving the others to stand guards.


    "AHHHHHHH."


    Rosvon quickly closed the door, only for him to hear the screams of his guards at the last moment and the barrage of bullets being fired. He couldn''t help but wish for an escapable reality. He should have hidden in the back ally forever.


    They were not attacked, nor they feel threatened in the rest of their journey. Even the coldness was lifted off them. They arrived at the underground parking lot. The bright place had one black Mercedes, standing in the middle.


    They quickly rushed to the car, checking to make sure they were not tagged or bombed. Confirming that they were in the clear, they guards boarded the front seat while Rosvon took the back.


    The car throttled and rushed out. The trio didn''t want to stay at all.


    The car rushed out of the estate and jumped to the road, leading straight to the heart of Gotham.


    "Really going to Gotham? Isn''t it save to leave," Someone asked the question.


    "No, we have a safe house," Rosvon replied before he realized that its was not one of them who asked the question.


    The guards turned to look back, one pointing his gun as Nion sat next to Rosvon. They looked at his iconic outfit, which was his neon helmet, and gulped. If one couldn''t recognize the man before them, they should be living under a rock.


    They looked to Rosvon for order, not knowing what to do.


    "Focus on the road," Nion commanded, before turning to Rosvon.


    The guards turned to Rosvon. Rosvon gestured them to continue. He then turned to Nion.


    "What did I do to invite the King?" Rosvon asked.


    Nion placed his hand on the chin and looked to be in thought.


    "Where should I start?" Nion mused, "Should I start from where you tried to create a new gang to rule the underworld or sending your mistress to steal my data?


    Can''t say I am not impressed. Sending a technopath to steal the data from the shelter was a very good idea. My system wouldn''t have noticed her anomaly if my men weren''t present. {His system even though capable enough to stop intrusion from Brainiac, would have overlooked the plot behind it.}


    But what more intriguing is that a detached tail like you thinking of that idea? I have read your whole history and you have never displayed such remarkable thinking.


    So who is behind you?"


    Rosvon gulped at Nion''s question. His mouth opened and closed like a fish out of the water.


    "You don''t need to think hard," Nion spoke. "Just tell me the name and I will let you go,"


    "Really?" Rosvon asked.


    "Sure," Nion answered.


    "It was man named Vandal Savage, he approached me to use my girlfriend''s power to infiltrate the shelter and gain its data. I don''t know who he was, he just promised an amount that I couldn''t refuse." Rosvon spilled the bean.


    "Okay," Nion nodded, "Now, get out of my city."


    Nion glitched away, back to the shelter. Leaving Rosvon and his goon bewildered. Only for them to be caught by police and taken into custody. They will rot in prison for years before they are released.


    Zion didn''t mind that end for some tails dying off.


    He informed the bots to inform the woman and send her back. Since she was with a child, he decided to look past this transgression. He didn''t want an orphan in the streets, the world already had too many.


    He also put her in dept for her treatment and gave her a work at the shelter. With that he easily got a sla-*Ahem* worker.

 79 - God

    This is a notice that you need to read.


    This chapter is just me ranting because I didn''t know what to write. This is me going on about my belief. I am not forcing you to read this.


    You can read it and comment, If you want of course. Read it at your own conviction.


    *****


    A dream.


    A dark citadel, a church like one that was built before those of our time. One so magnificent, its roof could fit a giant. Its colored glasses and murals depicting stories told through generations. Pillar tall as behemoths. It was a work of art in itself.


    Yet, today it was filled with darkness and black fog. On that trapped the light from reaching. I understood not what was happening, yet as I walked its ground. I saw multitudes worshiping their so-called gods, performing rituals of many kind from many different culture and religions.


    Crying so their gods might listen.


    I began to panic as I stood among them. I did not where I was, nor what was happening. A overwhelming sense evoked me, to call to My God. I cried, I called in the loudest voice I could muster.


    I was answered, but not by God. But by the cries of multitude as they panicked. Something had broken through. While I looked to what was happening, I saw something descend though the dark fog and snatch someone who was next to me.


    In fear I called to god again, for protection from this predicament.


    Yet again I was answered. A chilly voice filled with triumphant, that it send chills down my spine.


    "God is not listening."


    I saw a revolting form of an angel. A being mostly human, its whole body pink that connected with its fleshy wings and its talon like feet. It grinned as if enjoyed the fear in my face.


    Multiple then descended, picking their prey.


    And in fear I ran.


    I ran as one by one, those around me were picked. I ran towards the stairs. The demons then descended before me. He was enjoying this. He looked eyes with me as he slammed into the stair, breaking the ground.


    I fell through the ground, multiple debris fell on me, sealing me in. But I could see, see the darkened sky through the gap.


    The world was done,


    .....


    "Why are you still here?"


    Zion asked immediately when he found Amaterasu waiting for him at the shelter.


    "Well, my guide went away on his own," Amaterasu spoke in a teasing tone.


    Zion huffed in annoyance as he looked to the sky wishing for God to take him. His faith blindly radiating as his annoyance was getting the better of him. Amaterasu, watching the gesture, followed where the faith was connecting, where it was reaching.


    "So, that''s who you worship," Amaterasu spoke.


    "Yeah," Zion lowered his head.


    "But he doesn''t interfere much in your affairs," Amaterasu pointed out.


    "Well," Zion shrugged, "He is better than you all, and he did his work when he made this universe. We can''t blame him for all the evil we commit."


    "Well, I won''t complain since we haven''t managed humans in centuries," Amaterasu replied with a similar shrug. "But I do hope you show me around."


    "Okay, let''s continue then," Zion gestured towards the door.


    He then turned to the small round ball that was floating next to him, "You can do the rest, right?"


    [''Yes, sir.'']


    "Okay, we can leave now," Zion stated as he turned to leave.


    Amaterasu, moving quickly, took his hand, holding his left as she pulled him through the door. Zion looked at her for a moment, his eyes trying to look into hers.


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    "So, why don''t you tell me about how you got to know your GOD?" Amaterasu asked.


    "I grew up in a church orphanage," Zion answered.


    "As a human?" Amaterasu questioned.


    "Yes. I lived there for all I can remember. Just living my life as the black sheep among white unicorns. Drifting as wind blew in the ocean of the unknown. The pastor of the orphanage preached the word of God every day, yet I cared not to listen.


    People think that we believe because that''s all we know. What they don''t know is how much anger and pain we have when everything is for God. Is God the reason why you are so miserable, why you were abandoned by your parents? Left at the foot of the church on a cold night?


    Yeah, they don''t.


    I lived at the church not exactly filled with faith. Sleeping through the preaching, never even listening as I let my mind wander the universe. But my friend Mark was a very firm believer. He wouldn''t even let me sleep in peace."


    Zion smiled, reminiscing the memories.


    "He was annoying.


    But as time drifted past, I caved. I wanted answers. I searched and found them. God, or Jesus as dubbed, is the only one who could love us so much as to sacrifice himself for humans. For his creations.


    Normally, I would just flip him off, but he was the best among the bunch. You, on the other hand, know all about the gods. Not exactly a loving bunch, are you?"


    "Not exactly," Amaterasu agreed but smiled as she thought of something. "So how did you figure out the trinity? It was fun watching the mortals run around trying to comprehend something so simple."


    Zion nodded, "Yeah, yeah. I know. It''s simple but not easy. It takes time and understanding. I mean, I wouldn''t blame anyone for saying we worship three gods. It''s understandable."


    "So how did you even comprehend?"


    "Easy, it''s similar to my situation. Author, me, and his words? The Author, the creator of the universe. Me, his avatar to do his will. And his words that guide us all. In a sense, we are a trinity. I do have the will to do what I want to do, but the Author has more authority. Then comes the words that guide us all.


    So, in a sense, I do nothing but by the will of the Author.


    You get it?"


    "You are confusing," Amaterasu pointed out as she shook her head.


    Zion sighed in defeat, "I was never the best at explaining things without confusing the other person. But in a sense, we are all made of the Author, yet we are separate beings."


    "You are as confusing as a Sunfish."


    "I heard people eat that; does it taste good?"


    "But what about the atheist? They would deny everything at each step," Amaterasu was digging into Zion''s mind.


    "Of course, but I have very highly advanced technology that some would call magic. But again, the argument is always that humans created gods. I, in a sense, could say they are right, but the question is why? Why would intelligent humans who came from monkeys be so adamant about having something to worship?


    But if you think that humans are so adamant about God, it''s because we try to find something we lost. As creations, we are searching for our father in times of need, to shelter us from the storm. It is an instinctual reaction.


    The whole point is that we are trying to fill up an empty void with other things."


    "Humans have always been spiritual. Added to their curiosity, they make a bad combo," Amaterasu joined.


    "Humans are also stupid in a sense, and science is a path of never-ending discoveries. There is no end to it, and science is only correct until someone proves it wrong. And with the Earth''s scientific capabilities, they couldn''t even understand the full power of quantum physics.


    And I would say, we are pretty special when we are chosen to be more than a cosmic accident. A clump of lust that somehow stuck together. I am pretty sure I am not just matter, and neither are the people I care about, nor are those that I interact with.


    We have a soul, and it is our duty to save it."


    "You spoke as you know and don''t know. You are stupid," Amaterasu teased.


    Zion smiled, "I am just human, and now I have someone to whine and talk stupid things about. Someone who would listen, someone who will love me for who I am. Someone who would extend his hand no matter how many times I fall.


    I am not mentally sane, nor are most humans."


    "But we are real," Amaterasu pointed out. "We have lived among humans since their dawn."


    "Yeah, but I am not speaking to you," Zion commented.


    "Then?"


    Zion looked at me (Readers), "I am talking to you. There is no need to believe, but when times are hard, give him a chance. He will show you wonders."


    Amaterasu tilted her head like she didn''t understand.


    "You wanna get Gotham Fried Chicken?" Zion asked as they arrived near one.


    "It''s oily," Amaterasu commented.


    "Well, I will just get one for me then," Zion commented as he walked into the joint and placed his order.


    Zion walked out with a chicken bucket and a fried crispy chicken in his hand. "You want one?"


    "Really? After all that talk about being spiritual," Amaterasu declined.


    "Well, people don''t like listening to scripture. It annoys their heart," Zion stated the truth. "It''s not easy to change the heart of men."


    Amaterasu just shook her head.


    "Do you want one?" Zion asked the random passerby.


    The man freaked out by the sudden question and kept walking. Zion shrugged and took another piece.


    "So, then when did you realize that you were one of us?" Amaterasu questioned.


    "It happened recently, when I awakened my knowledge?" Zion guessed.


    "So, you received back your memories and regained your power. But you don''t belong to any pantheon?"


    "Nah," Zion stopped a woman, "You want one?"


    The woman looked at Zion as if he was insane before hurrying away.


    "So you got no pantheon, nor do you have a narrative. Are you from the other side?" Amaterasu questioned.


    "Nope."


    "There are about hundreds of millions of pantheons in the god sphere, are you not from any of them?" Amaterasu asked.


    "Nope, always been on Earth," Zion answered.


    "So you do belong to the Earth''s pantheon," Amaterasu said thoughtfully. "Maybe you belong to a yet forming myth."


    "Probably," Zion reached out to the guy who was minding his business. "Want one?"


    The man looked at Zion before taking the chicken out of his hand. "Thanks, man."


    "Good to be of service, brother," Zion handed him the whole bucket.


    He didn''t wait and continued walking.


    "What are you even doing?" Amaterasu asked.


    "You extend a hand to people, but only some take it," Zion preached.


    Amaterasu sighed, "Can you be serious? I am trying to find your pantheon."


    "Why would you?" Zion asked. "It''s a waste of time, anyway."


    Zion then took Amaterasu around Gotham, showing her many things.

 80 -JL Assamble

    ["Its time."]


    "Let us begin," Zion smiled.


    His eyes gleaned with a sense of anticipation as it traced the black canvas filled with uncountable fireflies. The infinite tapestry of beautiful chaos. The blue marble like planet taking the corner of the picture.


    Such beautiful universe, one where he was blessed to be born in.


    But is beauty without a bit of chose.


    Zion turned around, his eye meeting the doom like structure. Its metallic smooth shine extending over the whole structure. This was the new base he built. The base was the size of a city, but that was only on the outside.


    The inside could shelter the whole population of earth and then some, in an emergency situation.


    It was also equipped with technology that could be considered magic. Yet, they house not his greatest creations. Never would he let that fall in wrong hands. He wouldn''t trust Justice League with his tech. But the tech was still advance enough to combat powerful enemies.


    Zion began his walk, his steps leaving deep prints in the soft surface. The crunch of the ground could not be heard through the vacuum of the space, but he could feel it. The dust floating in the near zero gravity.


    "What a wonderful day," Zion grinned,


    His work coming into fruition was a day to be celebrated.


    ***


    *Beep*Beep*Beep*Beep*


    The letters Zion had sent pulsed with a subsonic sound while emitting a dim light. The heroes who held the letter quickly understood that the time has arrived. The glowing lettter brought fought many emotions. Worry, excitement, suspicion, curiosity and hope. Many emotions swirled together as the time neared.


    Today, they would connect with those that were similar to them. Ones that would understand their burden, one who could share it. If gone well, the will have a team to fight threats they couldn''t fight alone.


    .


    .


    .


    Superman dressed in his attire, floated above metropolis. His hands holding the glowing letter. He had flew up here the moment he heard the sound. The time was here and Zion would be here to pick him up. Or something. He never stated how they would be transported.


    Kara floated next to her cousin, his nervousness affecting her. His eyes scanning the sky every moment, waiting for something. She could see that her cousin was a bit happy. She couldn''t understand why he would be. It''s was not like she was not present.


    "Don''t worry, he will probably teleport you," Kara spoke.


    "Hmm, that does mak-"


    Before Superman could finish, the space around his fracture and swallowed him. The glitching effect take over as it fixed the broken space.


    Kara floated still as she watched Clark being swallowed by the glitch. She knew that only Zion could so something like that. Zion''s teleportation was not displacement of matter in space, he tears a hole through the level one space and dragged the object through subspace. this is a counter to retracing . When people try to follow the teleportation residue, they would be lost in subspace.


    Kara took a deep breath and decided to focus on the city below. She got to keep the city safe until Superman returns.


    "Help, Help." An old voice called.


    ***


    [''Sir, your invitation is glowing.'']


    "I can see that, Alfred," Batman replied as he stared hard at the glowing letter.


    ["Do you want me to pack you some sandwich for your tea party"]


    "This is a boy''s night out, pennyworth. You should pack him some wine, " A seductive voice whispered into Batman''s ears as hands warped around his neck. Selena leaned in, her tongue caressing his cheeks like a cat before she gave a playful bite.


    "Be at ease, Darling. I don''t want to you to bite your new friends. That''s only for me."


    "It''s a cooperation."


    Even thought Selena''s works were seductive, Batman was on work mode.


    "You are no fun," Selena unwrapped herself from Batman and return to wherever she came from.


    Batman reached for the glowing letter, "See you later, Selena."


    Selena turned to the words, but Batman had already vanished.


    ***


    "Its already here," Flashed as freaking out, million thoughts firing in his head.


    He was buzzing on as he kept moving around his room. He was already ready in his suit. He even polished the whole suit and made user that he didn''t smell.


    "How should I greet them? Should I just be casual? Maybe a ''Hi'' or ''Hello. Or should I be formal? Should I introduce myself as just Flash? Do I give them a firm handshake? What if it was someone form other country? Should I make a joke to smooth the atmosphere? Will they think I am weird? Would i come as weird? Should I bring present? Or is it over the top? How about food? Maybe pantries ? Pizza?"


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    Flash''s speed didn''t help him in this situation. He was getting too excited. He wanted to make a good impression on his future teammates. But he wasn''t given time to finish his thoughts as space cracked open, a force pulling him though. He let the crack swallow him as he felt the letter being attracted.


    ***


    "You excited," Steve asked.


    "Yes," Diana replied. "Not only am I getting to meet some other warrior who fight for justice but to also help Zion who helped out gods. It will be an opportunity to pay back the dept."


    "That too," Steve agreed. "But be careful."


    "Why?" Diana questioned. "No ones going to hurt me, and If they want to they can try."


    Steve could only agree, and he trusted that Zion would not use backhanded method to capture Diana.


    "Its time," Diana clutched the later and the space around her broke.


    ***


    At the edge of sector 2114,


    "Surrender peacefully," Green Lantern spoke as he flashed the ring at a ship.


    The ship crafted from multiple ship parts was barely holding on. The ship was also damaged from the private crews defense system. They had escaped after they failed to rob a crusour ship.


    These were the space pirates.


    But instead of surrendering. they pirates charged their cannon. Hal scoffed in annoyance as he formed a hand and stuck it into the cannon. The pirates fired the cannon only for the left wing to go up in flames.


    Hal quickly patched up the whole and arrested the criminals.


    [''Lanter, report to Nion'']


    "Is it time already?" Hal mused. "Let''s see who the other hotrods are."


    Hal informed a nearby Lantern and handed the criminals over. The ring flash for a moment and Lantern vanished.


    ...


    Zion stood to the side as he watched the other being dropped into the hall.


    Superman, Batman, Flash, Wonder Woman, Martian Manhunter, and finally Green Lantern. The quickly looked around, ready to fight if threat detected. They all quickly noticed that they were others with them in a massive circular room, enough to fit school auditorium. They were wary of the other two as Superman, Wonder Woman, Martian and Green Lantern were acquainted.


    They exchanged a small nod and turned to the other three.


    "Zion, where you invited too?" Flash asked excitedly, appearing next to Zion.


    Zion tilted his head, "Dude, I was the one who invited you. Of course I will be here."


    "You are Nion," Flash looked surprised before a look of realization then confusion. " But the letter was written in a way like I don''t know you?"


    "It was suppose to be a prank," Zion admitted. "And How did you know not know it was me?"


    Flash looked a bit embarrassed. "Well, the both of you have totally different vibe. Moreover, aren''t you not a human but a alien velociraptor? And Nion used fire and highly advanced tech."


    "How could you miss? I even called you to help with the terrorist," Zion questioned. "I was even there."


    "I thought you wanted me to help with the terrorist because you couldn''t go? And you could have solved it anyway, you are fast." Flash explained.


    "That is a serious leap of logic," Zion pointed. "But understandable, I did have a personality shift when I transform."


    "You can transform into other aliens?" Flash asked, curious.


    "I can," Zion answered.


    "Can yo- Zion,"


    Batman cut into their conversation. His eyes glaring at Zion. The duo turned to the man in dark, and looked to the others. Zion realized why they here and cough to clear the awkwardness.


    "Forgive me," Zion apologized. "Let us begin the council."


    At his worlds, the floor shifted as a circular table rose from the ground, even comfy chairs, equally distance appeared. Since the group was small, the table was also small.


    "Take a seat," Zion took the one near him.


    Flash took the seat next to him, Batman the other. The other took seats near them. They all took the seat, but were still a bit tense.


    Zion began, "Let me start, I am Zion and is known by the name Nion."


    Zion then turned to Batman. Batman grunted but nevertheless complied. "I am Batman."


    "..."


    "..."


    "..."


    "That''s it?" Hal questioned.


    "I do not trust enough to reveal my identity," Batman answered.


    "Look at this guy," Hal was pricked.


    Zion spoke at this moment, "There is no need to reveal your identity. I only reveal mine since most of you here know me." Zion pacified. "You all with be working be working together. When all of you gain enough trust in each other. Then it is your to reveal or not.


    "I don''t like the idea of a team, its inefficient," Batman commented.


    Hal was about to reply, but Zion cut to him. "We need to, Batman. This is bigger than all of you."


    Batman just grunted.


    Flash shifted uncomfortably at the sudden, but Zion gave him a nod.


    "I am The Flash," Flash spoke after a deep breath. "I am fast and work at central city."


    "Thank you, Flash," Zion spoke as he stared at Batman.


    Superman followed, "I am Superman. I primarily work at Metropolis. I can-


    "We know, Superman," Flash interjected. "The savior of metropolis. The Man of Steel. Symbol of Hope."


    "Thank you," Superman appreciated.


    "Then I shall introduce myself," Diana spoke up. "I am Diana Prince, or Wonder Woman. I come from Themasciry. I don''t exactly protect a city as I work with government to combat threats. I also don''t have specific power but I do posses the strength and speed of an amazon warrior."


    "Ha," Hal scoffed. "Those idiots were only using you."


    "I am J"onn J''onzz, or Martian Manhunter. I am from Mars. I can shape shift." Martian Manhunter introduced himself.


    Finally, it was Hal''s turn. Hal looked at the other before he sighed to himself and began. "I am Green Lantern, one of many out there. Protector of 2814, where earth belong. Yeah, I am a space cop. I can use my power to create any construct I imagine."


    "Yeah, yeah," Zion shrug it off. "Well, since you all learn about it each other, we can move to the main matte."


    The others nodded. Zion moved his hand and holo-disk appeared. He quickly navigated through the data.


    "You all already know why I have assembled you," Zion began. "As you all know, the first cosmic threat was met by me. Yes, you don''t need to thank me. But that will not be the last of it. Darksied was defeated but not killed."


    The projections of Darksied appeared in the center. Every one could see his face as the projection rotated.


    "I wasn''t able to kill him due to his associate and he escaped. Darkseid was wounded and he would return for vengeance. He is a sore loser, so until we either kill him for good or imprison him for eternity, he will always be a threat.


    His is annoying.


    But he is not the only threat we will face. The universe is vast and the sapient species uncountable. And in them there are those who just want to conquer. From Alien star to rouge killing machines. Everything will now come for earth and I am only one man."


    Zion words made the hall fall silent. The seriousness of the situation was a bit more than they expected.


    "Why are they coming to Earth?" Hal asked. "We are like in a forgotten corner of the universe."


    Zion sighed, " I wish it was that simple. Earth is a crux world, it is crux world of Superheroes. Similar to Krypton."


    This made Superman flinch.


    "It will attract all kind of troubles due to the secret it hides. But Earth had created heroes to protect itself. You ever wondered why so many unthinkable things happen sometimes? Why some of you gained power? Why you were attracted to a back water planet?


    It''s because you all were chosen to be its protectors. Superman is basically the champion of Earth."


    Everyone turned to Superman, but Superman didn''t buckle under the gaze. "What are the threats we will be facing? Can''t we solve it before it arrives?" He questioned.


    "Well, that''s the problem. I don''t know," Zion spread his hands. "I just know of the threats that will be coming, but got no idea what it will be. Things are already changing due to my intervention."


    "What do you mean?" Batman asked.


    "As I said, I don''t know what threat we will be facing," Zion repeated.


    "I am asking you about your intervention and its effects," Batman pointed.


    Zion just stared at Batman, but he decide to answer. "I don''t belong to your universe."

 81 - First Flight

    Red filled the chamber.


    All projections and controls turned red. The others quickly turned to Zion as he checked the device. He pressed on the alarm, and the projections of Darkseid shifted to show the feed of the solar system. The seven planets orbiting the Sun, initially without anomaly, suddenly shifted at the presence of a massive gravitational force.


    A planet made entirely of metal, its surface covered in mega-structures, appeared at the edge of the solar system, pushing forward at incredible speed. The system quickly calculated its course, pointing directly at Earth.


    Zion quickly initiated his defenses. A massive shield formed around Earth, its blue tinge vaporizing the space trash that humanity had left behind. Mars began to morph, resembling a spaceship with a massive cannon. The red and green natural surface sank into the ship, vanishing from sight.


    Zion then sent a signal to the incoming planet.


    [This is Sol. You are entering international territory. Reveal your purpose.]


    An answer was quickly received.


    [No man escapes the Manhunters.]


    "Seems like we''ve got a space battle on our hands," Zion grinned like a child, excited.


    "Why?" Flash questioned Zion''s reasoning.


    "Manhunters are sentient androids hellbent on erasing all organic life in the universe," Hal answered. "Green Lanterns have been fighting them for years."


    "They are also the mistake of the Oan Guardians," Zion added with glee. He loved trash-talking. Sometimes. "In their high intellect, they decided to create emotionless robots with the sole goal of ending crime.


    And the robots decided, ''Hey! The only reason there is crime is that people get emotional, and all emotions come from organic life. We''ll just end them to end crime.''


    I mean, I can''t say it''s wrong since the logic is accurate. But ending civilizations never goes easy. Now they are nothing more than killing machines."


    That was the end of the history lesson, leaving the others to take it in silence. Zion silently sipped his soda as he watched the Boit, the home planet of the Manhunters, cross Neptune. His scanner showed many hostiles floating out of the planet.


    "Since we are entering battle, I think I will give you your early Christmas presents," Zion spoke as he got up and walked to the wall behind him.


    The others looked at him with a mix of curiosity and bafflement. Zion turned to give them a smirk as he tapped the wall, making it retract to reveal a hidden chamber. The retracted wall displayed various armors and weapons.


    The room had many weapons in variety, from swords to bows. The armors also matched the themes of the Leaguers, from Batman-themed hyper armor to Kryptonian battle armor, even Flash''s thin spandex.


    Zion turned to the others, "This is your armory. It''s present in all places across the base. You just need to tap the wall, and it will open. Change into your new armors, especially you, Flash. You can''t run in zero gravity yet."


    "Yet?" Flash asked, baffled.


    Zion just gave him a mysterious smile.


    "I can run in space?" Flash turned to Batman.


    Batman just turned and walked away, prompting Flash to turn to Superman.


    "We are still learning about our capabilities," Superman shrugged as he moved to check the armor he had only seen in data files from Krypton.


    Flash moved to his new suit, which was red with silver lightning. The material was thinner than he expected and shiny. He reached out to touch the lightning. But unexpectedly, at contact, the lightning sparked, activating the suit. The silver lining glowed before it liquefied and jumped onto Flash.


    Flash began to panic, trying to remove it without damaging the suit. "Zion, what''s happening?"


    Zion just shrugged, "Nanites."


    Flash stilled, watching the liquid weave into his suit. His old suit dissolved while the new one replaced it. Once he stilled, the new suit instantly replaced his old one, hardening into metallic armor around his torso and arms. The suit looked heavy, yet Barry could hardly tell he was wearing anything.


    At his chest was a white glowing lightning bolt, exuding a mysterious aura. A display promptly appeared, revealing the suit''s capabilities.


    "Wow," Flash looked amazed as he read the list.


    Zion turned to Diana, taking something out of his inventory. A sword that attracted everyone''s attention the moment it appeared. The sword looked similar to the one Diana normally used, yet this one held power.


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    "I couldn''t get Zeus'' power, but it has a little something from me," Zion handed it to Diana.


    Diana received the sword with utmost gratitude. Zion had not only saved her gods but had also gone out of his way to give her a gift. She didn''t know how to repay the debt she already owed.


    "Thank you for this gift," Diana said, grateful.


    She drew the sword, lifting it high. The sword was fine silver with an edge so sharp it cut light. Its spine glowed with power and force that was incomprehensible, as if her will was weaving into reality. But the feeling quickly died, leaving a very distinct aftertaste.


    Zion smiled and turned to Green Lantern, "Your ring already has more than enough power. After all, I made it."


    "Stop bragging," Hal replied.


    "I am awesome," Zion praised himself, then turned to Martian Manhunter. "Look into my mind."


    Martian gave a nod before he reached out to touch Zion''s mind. But the minute he touched, his spirit screamed in fear. Inferno, one raging through the mind and destroying all consciousness. A flame he should not touch and fear.


    However, it was too late. The flame spread like it found gasoline and invaded his mind. But the flames didn''t burn him. They spread warmth through his psyche. He snapped back to reality, looking at Zion.


    "Use it wisely," Zion said before turning to Superman.


    Superman felt a bit emotional as he touched the Kryptonian armor. His eyes seemed dazed as he lost himself in memory.


    "The design is a one-to-one replica," Zion spoke, snapping him out of his daze. "I know you don''t like to wear armor, but from now on, you represent hope, both for Krypton and Earth. It will also retreat into your suit, so you don''t need to worry about wearing chunky armor."


    "Thank you," Superman answered, pressing his hand on the ''S''. The suit began to quickly dissolve and weave into his existing one.


    Zion, leaving him, turned to Batman, who was still checking the authenticity of the suit, skeptical of wearing something made by a potentially insane person.


    "Just wear the suit," Zion shook his head. "If I wanted to pull a leg, I wouldn''t do something as cheap as sabotaging the armor I gave you."


    "Can''t say you won''t," Batman replied.


    "Oh, come on. Do you want me to call Alfred to complain about how his son won''t wear protection?" Zion used very intentional words. "I''m telling you, protection is very important."


    "Hehehe," Flash and Hal chuckled but were quickly stared down by Batman.


    "What''s his deal?" Hal was a bit annoyed by his reaction.


    "Just wear the suit, dude. Your human body will only last so long before it crumbles," Zion advised. "We don''t need Batman out of commission when we need him."


    Batman grunted before he touched the glowing Bat symbol on the suit, which he shouldn''t have as his mind connected with Element X. His vision shifted for a moment as he gazed into the madness of the Multiverse. The many universes, many histories, many choices, and many more outcomes.


    But before he could sink further, his mind pulled back.


    His gaze immediately locked with Zion''s, who smiled knowingly.


    This kid before him knew something that should not be known. Possessing powers he could not plan against. Now, looking at those eyes, it was like staring into a being who lived different lives than a mortal. Curious. A deadly curiosity that frightened him.


    A game of minds, a game only he was made aware of, a piece to be played for his entertainment.


    Why?


    "I don''t know why, but Zion is letting Batman know of the chessboard. That he is just a piece so insignificant in the grand scheme of things. This is also the reason Batman knows of Zion''s abnormality. So, how would a paranoid Batman, who makes contingency plans for everything, respond to Zion? Someone who clearly outclasses him."


    "Let''s leave," Zion snapped, his gaze returning to that of an excited teenager''s.


    The Leaguers were ready in their new suits, even Batman. His gadgets were untouched as his belt remained on his hip, but his suit was leagues above what he had before.


    "Let''s roll out. You all have a battle to fight," Zion''s suit changed, his helmet covered his face, and his hair waved like flames. His digital visage displayed his happiness as the door opened to a hallway.


    "What do you mean, our fight?" Hal questioned, following Zion. "Are you going to ditch the hard fight to us and sit back?"


    "Yes," Zion answered. "You guys are the Justice League, and I am not your member. You all are a separate organization and are not under my or any other authority''s control."


    "Why do things this way?" Superman asked. "Can''t we just be a government organization? It will give us more authority."


    "We will have more authority and responsibilities this way. Someone who could hold accountability," Batman answered. "If we are under Zion''s orders, some will say that the heroes are compromised. We need to be separate from him. We serve people and justice, not just power."


    "Understandable," Flash agreed.


    "I am in as long as we fight for justice," Diana added.


    "And we got approval from the King himself to be


    heroes," Hal added with sarcasm.


    "So, only six of us?" Superman asked.


    "No, there are seven of you. The founders of the Justice League," Zion answered. "There''s a fishman still figuring things out. And you guys will also recruit more into the Justice League, but that''s your problem."


    The door at the end of the hall opened, revealing a stretch of bumpy grey and dark sky with clear stars. The air quickly rushed out, nearly pushing the others out. Zion walked out, his steps leaving prints on the moon''s surface.


    The Leaguers also felt the gravity shift as they exited the hallway. Superman, Wonder Woman, Martian, and GL managed by floating. But Flash felt a bit jumpy as he freaked out at the sudden loss of gravity. Batman was Batman.


    "We were on the moon?" Flash was surprised, seeing the blue planet above his head.


    "Yeah, the JL base is on the moon," Zion answered. "There''s a teleporter installed for travel. It can take you across the whole galaxy as long as you know the coordinates."


    "Impressive," Superman remarked, "But why can I breathe?"


    "Oh," Zion remembered. "I flooded the whole solar system with white light, willing life to thrive in space. For this occasion."


    "You can do that?" Flash continued.


    "GL can will anything into existence. I can do more," Zion looked smug.


    "That also means you could destroy the Manhunters with a thought," Hal stared, narrowing his eyes.


    Zion shrugged. "I told you, it''s your initiation ceremony. Fight this battle together, understand each other. Cover each other''s weaknesses. I will get involved if things go south."


    Zion turned dramatically, his coat fluttering and a mic appearing in his hand.


    "Today, I am just an anchor."


    [Welcome, Justice League.]


    [To your first battle!]


    [Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it. (Isaiah 30 : 21)]


    Zion grinned excitedly, the backdrop filled with thousands of Manhunter androids. Their eyes glowed menacingly, their home planet, Biot, charging its cannons to take out Earth''s defenses.


    Now, a battle between extinction robots versus the newly formed Justice League.


    Will they cooperate with each other and win this battle? Or will they lose?


    Is this fate or planned?


    Will our protagonist interfere?


    *****


    Good to be back and up!

 82 - LIVE

    [ Sayonara, people of earth! ] {He knows}


    A singular voice etched in the citizens of Earth spoke across the sol system, spoken in different languages yet it conveyed the same. The displays across the worlds played his live feed, his voice crisp as he appeared floating with an old gen mic.


    His live cut many feeds, leaving the citizens frustrated. Gamer''s who were about to defeat their final bosses who had handed them their butts many time and those who were watching News, Drama and sitcom, were all inconvenienced.


    [ Don''t worry, your broadcast will be resumed shortly. ]


    He turned the camera to the side, his voice whispering.


    [ But we got a much bigger things to deal with ]


    Hundreds of thousand androids, clad in red with menacing faces covering the sky, and a gigantic metal planet floating a the backdrop added to the surreal scene. The high resolution image only made the scenario surreal, inciting a panic into the hearts of the viewers. They just recently had an invasion, which still felt surreal, but now, they had another.


    Moreover, the guy who is supposedly their king was just announcing it.


    They could not feel more resigned.


    [ We are now under the threat of Annihilation ]


    [ Hooray! We can all die in piece ]


    [ But it seems like Earth''s superheroes as not going to allow that ]


    The camera angle shifted, turning to the wide backs of the supers who stood against the tides of Manhunter, their cape fluttering climatically in zero gravity. The sense of impending doom and atmosphere of the final battle weaved together, creating a cinematic shot that would go down in history.


    Nion floating in the background, letting it all sink in while putting the picture of auction. Doing good in the face of evil the virtue of a hero.


    As if the mic dropped, the metallic planet showed signs of activity. Its middle section opened up, pillar rising as energy began to concentrate at the center. The planet was now at the edge Jupiter, early to enter the asteroid belt. The manhunter stopping at Mars'' orbit, not caring about the techno-organic cannon that was pointing at them.


    Nion floated without worry, confident in the heroes to protect their planet. The element X impeded in their armour would grant strength in a peril.


    [ I do love a good show ]


    With the mic drop, the concentrated beam lefts its confines, signaling the beginning of battle.


    The beam of destruction crossed the spatial distance in an instant, approaching Earth with Manhunters as its vanguards.


    Zzzzzziiiinnnnngggg-*Boom*-Hissssssssssssssssss


    The beamed of light met the twin hot laser from Superman''s eyes, halting in its advance. The two powerful forces collided, one trying to dominate the other. But Superman was loosing grounds, the beam pushing back with more power. His natural power was outmatched by cold sentience. The light pushed back,


    Chsssssssss, Beeeeeeeeeeeeeem. {I don''t know how to make sound effects.}


    Two other added, supporting Humanity''s hope. Red of the Martian and the Green of the Green lantern. The three powers of different origin interweaved, pushing back the opposing force. The beam was gradually pushed back,


    The power beam died down, the coupled forces canceling each other.


    During the power struggle, the manhunter crossed the distance. Now forming a fall wall the surrounded the heroes.


    Wonder Woman drew her sword, Batman his batarangs while Flash went into serious mode, lightning sparking around him.


    "It about time," Diana muttered.


    The hundreds of androids lashed to them like a swarm of bees, ready to sting their prey. The flooding metal snuffed the lights. With only the red intense eyes visible in the darkness. Zion watched as the heroes were surrounded by a ball made of androids. Each pressing forwards with killer intend.


    *Bam bam* *Boom*


    Sounds of realization, powerful fists colliding with metal followed by melting red. A blade sung, slicing through the confines. Lightning sparked, dismantling. Light weaved, clawing. The League broke free, ripping from inside out, tearing their jail.


    ***


    The League broke free, ripping from the inside out, tearing their jail apart.


    Superman led the charge, grabbing the metal shell of Manhunter''s that imprisoned, throwing them towards the approaching tide. The tones of metal a projectile at his hands, the tide ripped apart.


    His fists a blur of motion as he smashed through the Manhunters. Each punch sent shockwaves ripping through the metal bodies, reducing them to scrap. His eyes glowed red, unleashing beams of heat vision that sliced through the androids with surgical precision.


    A breath of cold froze the androids at their steps? His following punch shattering them to space rubbish. The manhunters jumped him, multiple trying to restrain him. But with a flex of his muscle, the manhunters shatter.


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    Superman felt like he was breaking glass with each moment, his super-strength unparalleled under the direct sunlight.


    *Boom*


    Superman turned, his armour rippling as it absorbed the impact. Behind his back, tens of manhunters stood with their arm cannons charged. Superman body blurred, followed by the destruction of the manhunter.


    Superman only had qualms about killing, not shattering metal block.


    ***


    Wonder Woman moved with a warrior''s grace, her sword a blur of silver as she cut through the Manhunters. Her shield deflected their attacks, and her lasso ensnared and disabled those who dared to get too close.


    Her movements were a deadly dance, every strike a testament to her skill and strength. Each swing dividing the androids, her moment cold and calculated with no hesitation. No man stopped the amazon as she danced through the barrage of attack.


    The Manhunter tired to overpower her with number, resulting in them getting slices in half. Diana could help but admire the new sword in her hands. It felt no resistance even as it cleaved through the chunk of metal.


    Deflecting another projectile, she sliced the manhunter in half, kicking the corpse towards the approaching machines.


    The sword hummed in ecstasy, thirsting for more. She could feel that the swords demanded more. For purpose. She couldn''t understand why, but she complied. Her hands moved in instinct, a white glow surrounding the blade.


    A energon projectile leapt from her blade cleaving a path through the tides of manhunters. Following the path it constructed before her, she moved without burden, carving the manhunters. An ecstasy rose from deep within her heart as she felt the presence behind her.


    A streak of lightning that dismantled the manhunters.


    ***


    Flash was a streak of lightning, his speed overwhelming the Manhunters.


    His superspeed unmatched even by the greatest of metal block. He vibrated through their metal bodies, causing them to explode from within. His new suit allowing him to run in omni-direction, gave him an unlimited amount of options.


    Zigzagging through the multitude of machines in seconds. His rapid strikes left trails of electric energy, causing short circuit. He followed behinds WonderWoman as she carved though the tides of Manhunter, taking out the rest that were aiming for her back.


    Changing directions, he darted around his teammates, providing support where needed and taking down threats before they could react. The ai in his suit optimized his path, making so he could attack and defend, always a step ahead of a barrage. If any could hit him.


    The glow of lightning spread through out the battlefield.


    No manhunter could Hunt the fastest man alive.


    ***


    Green Lantern''s constructs added another layer of defense and offense.


    Giant green fists smashed through ranks of androids, flinging them into the outer space. His power rings pulsing with more will than he had ever had. His constructs more durable and his will more clear.


    He willed many weapons, from missiles to swords, chucking them towards the tides of manhunters. His constructs rippled as they collided with manhunter''s lazers, for the first time not crumbling before the united assault.


    His shield protected from the projectiles while launched an assault of them. Conjuring a giant bat, he took a swing clearing the tide. Plunging in as he smashed through, clearing an area. Only for it to be flooded with another tide of Manhunters, blocking his path.


    ***


    The Martian Manhunter phased through the Manhunters, his intangible form allowing him to bypass their defenses. He solidified only to deliver devastating blows, his shape-shifting abilities giving him an edge.


    Taking a ghost-like form, swimming through attacks, dodging blows in impossible angles as he dived through the midst of Manhunter. His telekinesis ripped the manhunters from the inside out, his enhances strength allowing him to rip the opponents to shreds. His martian vision cut through the metal at surgical precision.


    He fought with ruthless efficiency, using his shapeshiting to kill many in one go. His forms lose and incomprehensible like eldritch horror. Flames rising from his telekinetic attack, melting the iron blocks.


    The flames no longer cause chaos in the Martian''s mind, giving only warmth and peace. Allowing him to access his full potential.


    ***


    Batman, ever the strategist, used his gadgets to great effect. Explosive batarangs detonated in the midst of the androids, EMP pulses short-circuited their systems, and his combat prowess allowed him to dismantle them with brutal efficiency. He moved through the chaos with precision, always a step ahead of his foes.


    His new suit allowed him to keep up with the never tiring machines. Out-powering them with ease as his preinstalled weapons making him more deadly.


    But batman was not concentrated on the fights, he was observing the Manhunter as he systemically disarmed them. Watching as they slowly mended back together even using other manhunter parts to gain back form.


    These machines had not qualm about morality as they stitched themselves from their brotherin and rose to fight again. If the battle progressed in a similar fashion, they would be too tired to put a stop to this invasion.


    He turned to Zion, his eyes scanning the guy who was floating carelessly like a trash in space. He could tell that he had no though of intervening. He quickly moved using his data extractor to analyze data from the hive.


    The installed AI easily scurried through the firewalls of the android, extracting the layout of Boit.


    ***


    As the battle raged on, the League seemlessly began to work together, turning the tides. The Manhunter relentless attack was met with an equal force. The Manhunters, relentless and numerous, started to falter under the onslaught, even as they regenerated. The heroes fought with everything they had, their determination unwavering.


    Nion watched as he drifted carelessly, no manhunter ever even coming near him. Their sensor only registering him as unwanted objective. He believed that heroes would triumph in this battle, even with Manhunter''s regenerative properties.


    But the fight was far from over. The gigantic metal planet in the backdrop began to move, its ominous presence casting a shadow over the battlefield. It unleashed another wave of Manhunters, even more formidable than the last.


    Superman looked up, his expression resolute. "We need to take out that planet."


    Batman nodded. "Agreed. It''s the source of their power."


    Green Lantern''s ring glowed brighter. "I''ll get us there."


    The League regrouped, their focus shifting to the new threat. Green Lantern created a massive construct, a spaceship large enough to carry them all. The heroes boarded, ready for the next phase of the battle.


    As they launched towards the metal planet, the Manhunters swarmed around them, trying to prevent their advance. Concentrating their beams on the ship. But the constructs held on, escaping the siege of manhunter, cutting a path through them with its advance weaponry.


    The spaceship shook under the attack, going up in flames as it entered the planet''s atmosphere. The ship never halted, colliding with the surface at high speeds, ripping through multiple layers. GL withdrew his constructs delivering the heroes into the heart of the enemies.


    "This way," Batman pointed the way,


    He knew where the control tower and its master existed from the data he borrowed from the manhunter by kindly asking with his fists.


    The interior was a labyrinth of machinery and hostile androids, but they pressed on, determined to reach the core and end the threat once and for all.


    The final showdown was at hand. The League steeled themselves for the challenge, knowing that the fate of Earth rested on their shoulders. With unwavering resolve, they advanced into the heart of the enemy stronghold, ready to face the ultimate test of their strength and heroism.


    >>>


    What do you guys think of Batman in Elden Ring? {I am not planning to write another fic. Maybe a fun chapter in this novel. Not just following Zion all the time. While I totally forgot Kara existed. Need to write one.}


    Thanks for waiting!

 83 - Highmaster

    The leaguers followed Batman''s as he skill fully navigated them through the labyrinth of a metals.


    They fought Manhunters at every turn, the androids number ever increasing. With each passing seconds they were chocked by the sheer amount that was being thrown at them. The tights tunnels filled with the crawling bots.


    Superman used his strength sparingly to not collapse the whole place on them, punching the androids to create space for them to moved. While Superman punched a path forwards, others worked together to take care of the still moving androids. Martian and Green Lantern fought to keep the androids from their backs.


    They moved at a snails pace as they battled, leaving trails of destroyed androids. Which were absorbed and regenerated by other Manhunters.


    "Which way?" Superman asked as he ripped an androids from his back.


    Throwing the androids away to destroy few more, he noticed two more path from which the manhunters were pouring in. It was like an ant hill and they had just poked it.


    Wonder Woman slashed, kicked, punched to keep the androids away. While Flash moved at in comprehensible speed, mostly staying intangible to not get caught by the strays, using the plasma blade from his hands to cut the machines to dices.


    Batman threw a few more electric Batarangs at the androids, stunning them before stabbing an androids that was crawling towards him. Heat blazed, melting it from the inside. He turned to the other stunned and removed their heads.


    The Blade retracted into his wrist plate, cooling in an instant.


    "Forwards." Batman answered as he checked on the map he extracted from a manhunter.


    The map showed how complicated yet simple the design of the maze was. Most of all, they were not in an actual maze, but a vent. This massive vent was need for the core of the facilities to function.


    "Hey, move faster," Green Lantern shouted as he pushed the Manhunter will a massive drill bit. "We are going to be cornered at this rate."


    "They keep coming back up like roaches," Diana muttered as she slice two androids at once.


    "We need to moved faster, I already burned through most of my energy," Flash complained, but felt the suit respond with a prick and his glucose levels filled up. "Okay, we can take this slow."


    "Cut forwards," Batman instructed.


    Superman nodded and blasted with his heat-vision, one that was used for just melting. The androids melted under the heat, quickly fusing together and blocking the other path. He then concentrated it forwards, cutting a path through the metal blocks. With a following punch, a path was made for them to move.


    The other quickly followed and Martian and Green Lantern shut path shut by welding the metal block. They did tight efficient work, moving in synchrony.


    They moved though another showered of Manhunters, and many turns later Batman halted.


    "Wonder Woman, cut here," He pointed as he removed a device from the belt.


    Diana moved as she sliced a few more Manhunters, and with a simple swing she sliced the metal plating. Batman then used his enhanced strength to lift the plate. Under it was a red tube blowing with head. It looked to be carrying something hot.


    He quickly attacked the device onto the tube and shouted, "Superman, freeze breath."


    Superman quickly used his freeze breath to freeze all the manhunters around them. Batman press a button, blowing a hole on the floor. The hot liquid from the tube started to flood down, but it quickly died down, filling the space with heat.


    "Down," Batman didn''t wait.


    Other followed, instantly feeling the heat. However, they were not that kind of people who could sweat. The only Humans were wearing hyper armour while the demi-god and aliens were heat resistant. Superman quickly closed the opened by welding it back, while the sound of Androids breaking though the iced echoed.


    "We split here," Batman instructed. "Wonder Woman, Martian and GL will moved that way while the rest dive deeper."


    "Why should it be us?" GL questioned.


    "The Androids track heat and vitality," Batman answered, "Use three can camo whole rest of you can''t. You will attack the swarm away while we take down the facility."


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    "We act as bait," Manhunter pointed.


    Batman nodded and threw a device to them. "These will make you three seem like six. Move before the heat sinks.


    Lets go."


    Batman nodded towards Martian and Wonder Woman, before sprinting towards the other side. Flash kept looking back and forth while Superman just wished them good luck and followed. Flash also said an awkward bye and blitzed away.


    Manhunter gave the device to Green Lantern, since he normally don''t up close it was better for him to keep it.


    "Can''t believe I am being a Bait for an a-hole," GL grumbled.


    "Let''s go, we need to lead them as far away as we can," Diana spoke before walking in the opposite direction.


    Martian just floated behind her.


    "Then let me start the party," Green Lantern grinned and raised his fist. "In the darkest day, in the darkest night, no evil shall escape might sight, let those who worship evil''s might, Green lantern''s light"


    Green Lantern ring began to glow as it recharged without the need for a Lantern. The light only gre brighter and brighter. Its charge pinged on the Manhunter''s detector, gaining the whole armies attention.


    *BOOOM*


    What followed was an explosion that shook the whole mega structure. The tremor traveling deep into the core.


    "Will they be okay?" Flash questioned, running beside batman and superman.


    "They are more than capable of taking care of themselves. Our mission is to take control of the central tower." Batman answered.


    He just hoped that the enemy would not have figured out their plan. He need the others to buy as much of time as they could.


    .


    .


    .


    "Have these balls," Green Lantern shouted as he dropped two huge ball on the androids, turning them to past as he rolled them around.


    "Ha," Diana shouted as she swung her new swords, sending arc of energy that cleaved through multiple enemies.


    Manhunter followed up by turning into a giant salamander with crimson skin and breathing fire onto his enemies, melting them together. He no longer felt fear towards fire, but he stall had a bit of PTSD, a prick on his nerves when he saw flames. But he was now able to use flames in his attacks for some weird reason he didn''t want to question.


    This form was also attached with the memories Zion had given, he couldn''t turn into a Hydra due to limited space.


    He then used his TK to scoop up the molten metal and threw them at other Manhunters. He also used his smooth and flexible body to dive through Manhunters, slaughtering them with his sharp claws. The Androids jumped on him, but their got no hold on him.


    However, the amount of androids pilling up near them increased with each second. Between Gl smashing, Diana dividing them in two and Manhunter ripping them off, it was becoming a trash field. But as they piled, the small undamaged chunks of metal moved, connecting with others as they regenerated.


    A spark ignited, a static filled the air a electric arcs flew around the field. Instantly the whole field was turned into an electric death trap. The electrons flowed without care for not who it was.


    "Arrrgggggghhhhh," Martian screamed as his form reverted to normal, an excruciating pain coursing through his veins. Martian gritted his teeth, forcing his TK to explode, leveling everything around him. The androids that were nothing but parts connected instantly disengaged, halting the excruciating pains.


    "J''onn, Are you okay?" Wonder Woman rushed to his side, unharmed in anyway.


    The daughter of Zeus had shock resistance, couldn''t have expected that. While Green Lantern created a shield around them. His suit tanked the attack, leaving him unharmed.


    "Yeah," J''onn answered through gritted teeth, his body still feeling jumpy.


    "They are adapting," Green Lantern remarked, "No more jumping us or shooting with lazers."


    Diana turned to the shaking shield, all the androids around them were exploding as they stuck to the shield cracking it. The concentrated explosion were about to crumble, slowly but surely, the safe space would be gone.


    "Open the shield when I say," Wonder Woman commanded she sheathed her swords and crossed her arms. Her braces started to spark with power as the blessing from the olympians took effect.


    "Now," Diana shouted as she smashed the braces against each other.


    *BOoM*


    .


    .


    .


    "Here," Batman raised a hand stopping


    He then crouched down next to the wall, and used his finger cutter to cut the wall. The hole was big enough for then to see what was on the other side.


    On the other side was a room with many highly advanced mechanical parts moving together as one body to create new Manhunters by the second. Many tubes filled with hold liquids flowed into the machines while a massive central power core sat at the center. The room looked like it was pulled out from Terminator: Dawn of Stars, {Just made it up.}


    It had the whole this is the genesis chamber all the killer robots.


    And at the center was a Manhunter, bigger than any other. A yellow glow radiated of his shell as he sat monitoring the birth of the Manhunters.


    "Its the Highmaster," Batman stated.


    "What are we gonna do?" Flash questioned.


    "We need to take him down," Superman answered straight.


    "No, we need his core to take control of the Manhunters," Batman stopped, "Just break his limbs."


    Superman didn''t wait and punched the wall destroying it in and instant. The Highmaster turned to the sound, only to meet a fist that threw him off the thrown. The Highmaster collided with the wall behind denting it in his figure, yet again, before he could react, Superman pulled his out of the wall and threw him down.


    The Highmaster didn''t have time to react as Superman began to pummel him a new one. Superman punch held back no power as it dented the promethium plating. The highmaster quickly opted for his back up as he flooded the deck with Manhunters.


    .


    .


    .


    "ha...ha..YOu think we bought them enough time," Hal breath raggedly as he wiped the blood of his face.


    Surrounding them was piles on plies of destroyed Manhunters, smashed beyond recognition. And the rest of the team was not better in condition. They both were ragged from all the attacks the Manhunters threw at them. From concentrated lazer to suicide bombing. They kept adapting to target their weakness, while throwing all their man power to drain them.


    "I hope we did," Diana answered.


    "But the fight is no over," Manhunter spoke as he looked up at the sky filled with manhunters.


    Hundred of thousands swarming around them, their cannons pointed at them. The eyes of the Manhunter felt intense as they stared them down.


    "Should I help?" A voice asked without a care.


    But before they could answer, the androids stopped their charge before instantly flying away.

 84 - Finale

    The scene was Apokliptic,


    Beneath the sky of Boit, the home planet of the Manhunters, the landscape was a nightmarish expanse of metal and ruin. Towers of cold steel pierced the heavens. rivers of molten metal flowed like blood through the veins of the planet, and the air was thick with the acrid scent of burning circuits.


    The ground trembled with the relentless march of thousands of Manhunters, their eyes glowing a malevolent red as they converged on the assembler¡ªa massive structure, the heart of Boit, where the planet''s most lethal creations were birthed.


    The Manhunters swarmed the assembler like a hive of mechanical wasps, their numbers overwhelming, a ceaseless tide of death and destruction. Their metallic bodies clanged against one another, the noise a deafening roar that filled the air, drowning out any other sound. It was as if the entire planet had come alive, every last one of its mechanical denizens called to this single point, driven by an unyielding command to annihilate the intruders.


    Inside the assembler, Batman''s voice cut through the chaos, calm and authoritative. "Flash, take us out." His words were followed by a flash of lightning, a brief moment of blinding light, and then he was gone¡ªvanished from the heart of the machine.


    Outside, on the planet''s surface, Batman reappeared, surrounded by towering spires that jutted from the ground like the teeth of a monstrous beast. The sky above turned sickly shade of red, reflecting the rage of the planet itself. He scanned the area quickly, his sharp eyes catching sight of a display flickering to life, showing the locations of his allies. "Flash, find the others."


    In the blink of an eye, Flash was gone again, his speed a streak of lightning against the dark backdrop of Boit. A moment later, he returned, the others in tow, their faces set in grim determination. Above them, the Manhunters floated, their weapons primed, but before they could strike, the ground beneath them shook with a thunderous boom.


    Superman burst from the ground, his form a blur of red and blue as he shot skyward, his hand gripping the collar of Highmaster¡ªthe leader of the Manhunters. With a snarl, he hurled Highmaster to the ground, the impact shaking the very foundations of Boit.


    "Batman!" Superman''s voice was a growl of fury and urgency.


    Without hesitation, Batman moved, his form a shadow among shadows as he approached the fallen Highmaster. In his hand, the extractor¡ªa device of dark purpose¡ªglinted menacingly. With a swift motion, he plunged it into Highmaster''s head, the device humming to life as it began its grim work.


    Around him, the others formed a protective circle, their eyes scanning the horizon as the Manhunters closed in. The air crackled with energy as the machines aimed their cannons, the sound of charging weapons rising to a fever pitch.


    And then, all at once, the battle began.


    The sound of fire filled the air, a symphony of destruction as energy beams and explosive rounds tore through the night, illuminating the battlefield in flashes of blinding light. The heroes moved as one, their actions a blur of precision and power, each strike calculated, each move a step closer to victory¡ªor to oblivion.


    As the extractor hummed and whirred, Batman''s eyes narrowed in concentration. The data streamed before him, a complex web of information unraveling from Highmaster''s mind. But then, something was wrong. The stream halted, and the data flickered¡ªempty.


    "There''s nothing here¡­" he muttered, his voice barely audible through the comms. He looked up, his eyes locking onto Highmaster''s, who despite his battered form, began to smile¡ªa twisted, knowing grin.


    "You''re too late, Bat-man," Highmaster sneered, his voice laced with arrogance. "The Codex you seek¡­ it was never here."


    Batman''s mind raced. If the Codex wasn''t with Highmaster, then¡ª


    "I''ve already won," Highmaster continued, his voice rising with a manic glee. "Boit has already begun the final protocol!"


    Suddenly, the ground beneath them rumbled violently, the tremors escalating into a full-blown quake. The towers around them swayed ominously, debris cascading from their heights as the planet itself seemed to groan in agony. Batman staggered, barely maintaining his footing as the ground buckled and cracked, splitting apart to reveal a massive chasm.


    From the depths of the planet, a colossal hand emerged, its surface a twisted amalgamation of metal and machinery, ancient and yet terrifyingly powerful. The hand gripped the edge of the chasm, pulling up the immense form of a slumbering giant¡ªa titanic war machine, its body covered in obsidiean armour and world ending weapons.


    The giant''s eyes, twin suns of burning red, opened slowly, casting a malevolent glow over the landscape. Its head turned, the movement slow and deliberate, as if the very act of awakening was a struggle against eons of inactivity. But now, it was awake, and with it came the weight of inevitable destruction.


    Highmaster''s voice echoed across the battlefield, amplified by the giant''s presence. "Behold, the Guardian of Boit! The final protector, the destroyer of worlds. You''ve lost, heroes. The Guardian will purge this planet of all life, and with it, your precious Earth!"


    The Guardian''s gaze fixed on the group, its mechanical joints groaning as it began to move, each step a seismic event, the ground cracking and splitting beneath its feet. The very air seemed to hum with the energy it exuded, a power ancient and incomprehensible.


    Highmaster, despite his broken form, laughed¡ªa sound that was more mechanical than human. "This is your end, Batman. The end of all who dare oppose us. You will be erased, and the Manhunters will reign supreme!"


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    Behind the colossal rose many other, numbering a handful yet not less terrifying.


    Batman''s mind raced, searching for any possible solution as the Guardian loomed over them, the shadow of the behemoth stretching out like a curtain of doom. The titan if unleashed would decimate Earth in mere days.


    Yet his heart wavered not. {Mine}


    Because he stood alongside the greatest heroes of Earth, those who would sacrifice everything to defend their world. But even in the face of overwhelming odds, there was a calmness in the air, a quiet resolve that cut through the tension.


    "I will take care of this," a voice said, serene yet tinged with a subtle joy.


    As if sensing the threat, the Guardian turned its head towards the horizon, its core pulsing with ominous energy. With a quick charge, it unleashed a pulse of devastating power. The blast tore through the crimson sky, its path leaving destruction in its wake, culminating in a massive explosion on the horizon that birthed a mushroom cloud spanning kilometers. The shockwave rippled through the battlefield, nearly knocking Batman off his feet, a stark reminder of the Guardian''s destructive potential.


    The ground shook again, this time with a rhythmic intensity, like the footsteps of something massive approaching. The Guardian, recognizing the danger, began charging its beam once more, this time with greater intensity. For ten agonizing seconds, the air hummed with the buildup of power, the beam condensing into a focused stream of destruction.


    Batman''s enhanced vision allowed him to track the unfolding battle even as he fought off the relentless Manhunters. He watched as the colossal beam met its match in a red and white titan, a figure of equal size and power. The titan crossed its arms in front of it, blocking the beam with sheer force. Step by step, the titan advanced, its feet digging into the metallic ground as it pushed forward against the overwhelming energy.


    As the titan gained momentum, its movements became a blur, a hum of golden energy flaring against its Crimson armor. Then, with a sudden surge, the titan unleashed a burst of cosmic energy, cleaving through the Guardian''s beam and carving a gaping hole in its massive torso. The Guardian, mortally wounded, staggered and collapsed, its towering form brought low by the titan''s relentless assault.


    But the battle was far from over. More Guardians, each armed with world-ending weapons, advanced from the horizon. The red titan did not hesitate. With twin cosmic blades, it sliced through the first two Guardians in an instant, their formidable armor offering no resistance. The titan''s aggression was unrelenting; it leaped to the next Guardian, driving its knee into the machine''s face with brutal force.


    There was no pause in its onslaught. The titan delivered a cosmic-charged chop that cleaved the Guardian in two, its massive form crumpling under the attack. Even as the broken machine fell, the titan grabbed its corpse and hurled it at the advancing Guardians, using it as a weapon to clear a path.


    Without breaking stride, the titan charged another Guardian, its hand plunging into the machine''s chest. With a swift motion, it tore out the Guardian''s core, the glowing heart of the machine crushed in its grasp.


    In the wake of the titan''s fury, the battlefield fell into a brief, uneasy silence. The once thought unstoppable machines were reduced to wreckage, their remains scattered across the metallic plains of Boit. But the battle was not yet won¡ªmore threats loomed on the horizon. The red and white titan grinned as he charged, his steps making his advance.


    His massive body moved in an incomprehensible speed for his size, nearly blurring between moments like a speedster. The titan moved with no hesitation, ripping and tearing the guardians, enjoying the burtality as he ripped them limb from limbs, using their torn arms to break another. Their was no morality in war against an androids, their was no blood to be bathed.


    The leagueres watched in awe as the unstoppable machines met and immovable object, one that destroyed them in collision. Batman kept an eye on the titan as he methodically tore the Manhunters down, making sure that they would not regenerate. He analysed the battle, the brute force exerted by the titan, its unusally agile moments, its beginner level martial arts.


    "Is the titan?" Flash''s voice filled with doubt.


    "Its Zion," Batman answered without a change in tone.


    He had already expected Zion involvement in this battle. He would not sit back on something he would call "fun".


    "But how does this even work? His body mass just...," Flash left it unsaid.


    When transforming, the whole mass of the object should be conserved, its the laws of physics. Yet Zion small stature was taking the from of a titan that were more then ten times their height.


    "You can run faster than light, I don''t thing physics matters much," Superman answered, one who help a broken power. "Its a good thing he is on ourside."


    "..." Batman left it unsaid.


    On the battle of the Giants, the event was closing in on the climax. The Guardians had fallen, leaving on that stood to the back alive. The guardians had stood still as it observed Way Big rip its brethren out, observing, calculating.


    Way Big stood tall, the broken core of a Guardian slipping from his grasp, his imposing figure casting a long shadow over the battlefield. The remnants of fallen machines lay scattered around him, yet his expression was one of calm confidence. "Your move," he mocked, his voice resonating with the thrill of victory.


    The Guardian responded with a low, ominous pulse that rippled through the planet''s surface. The vibration spread out, awakening the broken Guardians. The battlefield erupted as the broken parts of defeated Guardians rose into the air, swirling in a storm of metal and energy. These fragments fused with the remaining Guardians, enhancing their already formidable power, and their eyes blazed with renewed fury.


    Cannons hummed with energy as the Guardians charged their blasters, each weapon pointing directly at Way Big. The air crackled with tension, thick with the anticipation of the impending clash. Despite the overwhelming force gathering against him, Way Big remained unfazed. He crossed his arms before him, cosmic energy pooling and condensing into a brilliant Golden light that began to hum with power.


    The two colossals stood locked in a standoff, their beams charging to their fullest potential. The Guardian''s blasters pulsed with deadly energy, preparing to unleash devastation. But before the Guardian could fire, Way Big made his move. Without warning, he released his cosmic ray, the beam tearing through the air with unstoppable force. It struck the Guardian with precision, boring a hole through its chest, cutting through its core with such speed that the machine had no time to react.


    The impact sent shockwaves rippling across the planet, a dome of energy expanding from the point of contact. The Guardians were obliterated in an instant, their remains vaporized by the sheer force of Way Big''s attack. The beam continued its path, carving a deep scar into the horizon before finally dissipating, leaving silence in its wake.


    As the dust settled, Way Big walked slowly to the crumbling remains of the final Guardian. With a firm grip, he reached down, grasped the Guardian''s head, and, with a single, powerful motion, ripped it away from its body. The once-mighty machine fell lifeless at his feet, its head clutched in his hand as a trophy of his victory.


    The battlefield was now a graveyard of metal, the Guardians defeated, their threat extinguished.


    "He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire."


    Psalm 46:9

 85 - Clean up

    The battlefield was a maelstrom of chaos as the Manhunters descended into a frenzy after the first Guardian fell.


    Like a swarm of enraged bees, they attacked with unrelenting ferocity, their numbers overwhelming, their tactics evolving with each passing moment. Kinetic rounds, disintegration beams, shockwaves, and flames¡ªall manners of destruction were unleashed upon the heroes. The Manhunters adapted swiftly, changing their strategies, even resorting to suicide bombing in desperate attempts to break through.


    But the heroes of Earth, despite their exhaustion, stood firm. Muscles ached, bones creaked, but they refused to falter. Green Lantern''s shields deflected the suicidal onslaughts, while Superman and Martian Manhunter tore through the robotic horde¡ªone with sheer strength, the other with telekinetic precision. On the ground, Flash and Wonder Woman moved like lightning, cutting down the Manhunters that swarmed around them, while Batman methodically eliminated any threats capable of regenerating.


    Their teamwork was impeccable, each move synchronized, each attack complementing the others. The heroes fought as one, a seamless unit, their cohesion the key to holding back the tide of Manhunters. Yet, even as they battled, their eyes were drawn to the clash of titans on the horizon.


    The red and white titan moved with astonishing speed, methodically dispatching the remaining Guardians with a brutal efficiency. The Justice League watched as the titan tore through its colossal foes, using even the corpses of fallen Guardians as weapons. The final standoff was swift and decisive; the titan struck preemptively, obliterating the last Guardian before it could make its move. Then, with a final act of dominance, the titan ripped the Guardian''s head from its body.


    This act of defiance seemed to trigger the Manhunter swarm. Enraged by the loss of their titanic leaders, they turned their fury upon the titan, directing all their remaining firepower at him. Overcharged guns fired in unison, and Way Big flinched as a barrage of energy beams struck him like a million stinging ants.


    "Ow ow ow ow," he muttered, the irritation clear as he swatted at the swarm. His massive hands managed to crush many of the tiny attackers, but their numbers seemed endless. Frustration mounting, he continued swatting at the persistent swarm even as he carefully placed the Guardian''s head near Batman.


    Just then, the Omnitrix on his chest began to beep, signaling his imminent time-out. In an instant, Way Big was engulfed in golden light, his colossal form shrinking rapidly until only a human remained.


    With their target vanishing from their sensors, the manhunters returned their aggression towards the Heroes. Meanwhile, Nion walked out from behind the Guardians decapitated head. Batman''s gaze shifted to Nion, now standing beside the head. His eyes were full of questions, but Nion remained unfazed.


    "Get to work," Nion said, tapping the Guardian''s head. With a swift motion, space itself seemed to fracture and swallow him, leaving Batman and the Justice League to deal with the aftermath.


    Nion reappeared in the control tower, overlooking the planet Boit in the distance. The entire planet, Mars, a massive hyperspace aircraft, had its cannons primed, ready to fire at any moment. But for now, the threat had been neutralized, and the planet remained on standby.


    As Nion observed the cleanup operation, he turned to another screen displaying a carefully edited recap of the battle. The footage showed the Justice League''s struggle against the Manhunters, capturing moments of vulnerability before showcasing their eventual triumph. It was all orchestrated to present the League in a favorable light, ensuring their heroism was not just seen but celebrated.


    "How are things going?" Nion asked, his voice calm as he addressed Zai.


    "The League is being received well by the civilians," Zai reported. "Though there are still some reservations, the overall sentiment is positive."


    "Good," Nion replied. "Send in the cleanup crew. Let''s put this mechanical planet to use."


    Nion turned to a wall lined with an array of weapons, each meticulously arranged, from the classic to the cutting-edge. His eyes scanned the selection before he methodically removed a pair of Ion pistols, an SMG, and a shotgun powered by an atomic heart. As he equipped himself, the overcoat he wore began to shift, tightening into a more compact, tactical form while maintaining its distinctive style. The new weapons were sheathed and ready, but they were merely supplementary to his true power.


    With a focused thought, Nion summoned the Spear of Destiny. The weapon materialized in his grasp, its black and white shaft cold and solid in his hands. The spear held a power that was unmatched, capable of channeling the entire spectrum of emotions. He swung it forward with practiced ease, slicing open a tear in the fabric of space itself.


    Stepping through the rift, Nion bypassed the need for traditional travel, using the torn space to propel himself across the universe. In mere moments, he found himself in a distant star system within a forgotten galaxy, where a green star burned with an unusual intensity. Orbiting this star was a singular planet, its surface covered in blue and green, exuding an aura of habitability.


    But the planet did not interest him. Nion''s gaze remained fixed on the abnormal sun, the source of his mission.


    "You can''t be here," a voice resonated from the planet.


    Nion turned to see the planet''s surface now bathed in green light, with the emblem of the Green Lantern Corps floating above it. Mogo, the sentient planet and a member of the Green Lanterns, had awakened.


    "Sorry, but I need what''s inside the sun," Nion replied, his tone matter-of-fact as he pointed towards the glowing star.


    "I cannot allow you to retrieve the object," Mogo''s voice boomed, carrying the weight of the entire Green Lantern Corps. "Guardian¡ª"


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    "Try me," Nion interrupted, his voice laced with challenge as he raised the Spear of Destiny towards Mogo.


    The tension between them was palpable, the spear in Nion''s hand radiating a power far beyond Mogo''s green ring. For a brief moment, it felt as if they were locked in a silent standoff, the universe itself holding its breath.


    Then, Mogo acted, unleashing a massive blast of green energy from its surface, a beam that could easily obliterate planets. The force of the attack was immense, but Nion remained still, his spear held firmly in front of him. As the beam approached, the spear sliced through it effortlessly, dividing the energy in two. The beam passed harmlessly around Nion, leaving him unharmed, his cape fluttering in the aftermath.


    The blast dissipated, and Mogo, undeterred, observed Nion with a cautious gaze. The sentient planet had witnessed countless battles, but this one was different.


    "Peace out," Nion said with a smirk before launching himself toward the star at blinding speed, the Spear of Destiny cutting through the void as he flew straight for his target.


    Mogo''s surface ignited with a fierce, emerald glow as it unleashed a torrent of energy towards Zion, but Zion was prepared. With agility that belied his size and power, he weaved through the laser barrage at incredible speed, each movement precise and calculated. Mogo, desperate to halt his advance, constructed vast, intricate walls and veins of energy, barriers meant to trap and crush any intruder.


    But Zion''s response was swift and decisive. A mere swing of the Spear of Destiny cleaved through Mogo''s constructs as though they were paper. The combined power of the spectrum within the spear was unmatched, rendering Mogo''s defenses futile. Each strike of the spear shattered the green energy with ease, as Zion carved a path towards his goal.


    Nothing could stop him from his goal.


    Zion reached the edge of the green sun without hesitation, and with a powerful thrust, he plunged into its fiery depths. The intense heat and blinding light of the star would have incinerated most beings, but Zion''s visor protected his vision, while his indomitable will kept him focused.


    He descended deeper into the sun, the layers of plasma and searing energy swirling around him like a living entity. As he delved further, the heat became unbearable to any lesser being, but Zion remained unaffected, driven by the singular purpose of his mission. He pushed onward, deeper and deeper, until he broke through into a molten sea of boiling lava at the sun''s core.


    The atmosphere around him was suffocating, the air thick with the energy of the green sun. Zion''s senses were bombarded by the overwhelming concentration of mana, the sheer volume of power in this place enough to stagger even the strongest of minds. The lava roiled and churned, a violent sea of energy, each wave pulsing with unimaginable force.


    Zion paused, letting his senses adjust to the intense environment. The mana here was unlike anything he had ever encountered¡ªvast, ancient, and impossibly dense. It was as if the very essence of the sun had been infused with the power of the universe itself.


    He closed his eyes, focusing on the task at hand. Amidst the chaotic energy, he began to sift through the layers of mana, searching for the specific concentration that would lead him to his true objective. The spear in his hand thrummed with power, resonating with the energies around him, guiding him deeper into the heart of the sun.


    Zion knew that somewhere within this molten sea lay the Star Heart, the object he had come so far to retrieve. And he would not leave without it.


    As Zion plunged deeper into the star''s core, the Omnitrix flashed, transforming him into an Anodite, a being of pure mana energy. His senses expanded exponentially, the mana around him instantly absorbed into his essence. His flaming purple hair blazed even brighter, fed by the infinite power of the sun''s mana, a force so immense it could make even the strongest celestial beings bow in submission.


    The star was saturated with mana, almost overwhelming in its intensity, but the Star Heart remained elusive. The mana was everywhere, making it difficult to pinpoint the orb of cosmic power he sought. Undeterred, Zion pressed forward, delving into the very heart of the sun, where gravity was so strong that escape was nearly impossible. There, at the center of this immense gravitational well, he found the Star Heart, an orb pulsating with untamed cosmic energy, trapped in its fiery prison.


    Zion reached out and seized the Star Heart, its power thrumming through him as he hovered within the core, not fully departing from its grip. He could feel the orb''s sentience, a powerful will that had endured countless millennia of imprisonment.


    "Oi, stop hiding and come out," Zion commanded, his purple mana extending like tendrils, asserting his will over the chaotic energy around him. His influence permeated the area, but he could sense resistance from the Star Heart. It was strong, but he was stronger.


    Suddenly, a will responded through the mana, "What is it that you desire?"


    "Star Heart," Zion replied, his voice firm, "Come with me."


    "Reason."


    Zion grinned, speaking with blunt honesty, "Got a kid to adopt and I need mana to open an easy Magic portal to deliver the adoption papers. Things will be easier with you in my hands."


    There was a pause, the Star Heart processing his words.


    "If you come with me," Zion continued, his tone persuasive, "We could literally go on an adventure across the universe. It''s better than being stuck here, don''t you think?"


    Another silence followed, the Star Heart contemplating his offer. Sensing hesitation, Zion sighed and summoned the Life Entity, a short, white guardian with immense power. She materialized next to him, her presence calming yet powerful.


    "Can you persuade her?" Zion asked, a hint of frustration in his voice.


    "Isn''t that your job? I agreed to help in dire situations, not in gaining more power," she replied, her tone slightly amused.


    Zion shook his head, slightly exasperated. "Just help me here. I need to deliver adoption papers to a devil."


    The Life Entity regarded him for a moment before connecting her consciousness with the sentience of the Star Heart. The two powerful beings communicated in silence for what felt like an eternity, but was only moments.


    Finally, the Life Entity spoke. "She will help."


    Zion watched as the Mana around his condense into the star heart. Its orb like structure melting away and revealing itself. A spiky, crystalline object floated above, glowing with a brilliant green light. The Star Heart was like a crystalline spiked star, pulsing with energy. As it emerged, it began to morph, taking on a female form similar to Zion''s Anodite shape, but with a green hue. The star now floated in her chest like a heart.


    "I will help," she declared. "But I desire freedom."


    Zion nodded, extending his hand towards the star. The Star Heart hovered above his palm for a moment before he directed it into the hilt of the Spear of Destiny. The star shrunk as it was confined and locked within the spear, joining two other unstoppable forces already housed within.


    With the Spear of Destiny now augmented, Zion could feel its immense power, a convergence of cosmic energies that transcended space and time. Also the anger permeating from the star heat. Its years of imprison had made it bitter and resentful.


    He would deal with it later.


    "It''s time for a Hell Dive," Zion muttered, beginning to spin the spear at incredible speeds.


    He chanted the ancient incantations, drawing on the raw power of the Star Heart. The spear pulsed with energy, the power radiating from it warping reality itself. With a final, decisive slash, Zion tore open a rift, a gateway to the very depths of Hell. The portal yawned open before him, its edges crackling with dark energy.


    "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me,"


    Without hesitation, Zion leaped into the abyss.

 86 - Hell

    The war with the Manhunters ended with the Justice League''s victory.


    With Batman extracting the Core Control Matrix from the Guardian, he became the primary target for the Manhunters. He was only able to do so with the help of the other Leaguers. They kept the frenzied swarm from reaching him while the extraction was completed.


    With the Control Matrix, Batman was able to shut down the Manhunters, rendering them useless.


    "What do we do now?" Flash asked. "Do we wait for Nion to send people?"


    "We return to base," Batman commented.


    "Leave a planet stranded in our solar system?" Superman might be the only one thinking here.


    "Zai is moving the planet," Batman answered, looking to the sky.


    A gigantic black ship with golden circuitry patterns flew towards them. It was Mars, the whole planet turned into a battleship weighing in at planetary mass. Normally, constructing such a ship of this size and weight would cause it to collapse on itself due to its own gravity. But this ship was not exactly a ship; it''s one big organism.


    "It''s like in the sci-fi movies," Flash commented.


    "Can he build a Death Star?" Hal questioned, causing all the faces to turn to him. "What? A man needs entertainment. Moreover, a Death Star could be useful."


    "Or weaponized against us," Batman pointed out coldly.


    "I think we already have a Death Star," Superman added.


    "That''s Mars," Martian Manhunter answered.


    "..."


    "..."


    "..."


    Seeing the ship approach, the others decided to move on from the subject of planet-smashing weapons. A tractor beam was shot from the ship, the force field slowly covering the planet. Seeing that the process had begun, Batman initiated the teleportation.


    A portal boomed them out of Boit, transporting them all back to the base. They appeared back in the conference room, taking their seats.


    "Where is Zion?" Wonder Woman questioned, noticing that he was not present.


    ["With the establishment of the Justice League, his presence is no longer needed. He has left for a mission of his own."]


    "When will he return?" Superman asked.


    ["Unknown"]


    "Where did he go?" Batman followed.


    ["Classified"]


    "Who is to take care of Earth?" Flash asked. "Isn''t he the king?"


    ["Emperor. But yes, I will take care of the controls until his return."]


    "Can we trust you?" Batman questioned.


    ["No."]


    ["Trust is built on an explicit understanding of parties'' desires and nature. You can''t comprehend a strand of my thought process."]


    "Did he just call us dumb?" Green Lantern questioned, baffled.


    "I mean, he is a highly advanced A.I.," Flash answered, understanding the amount of work it would take to build an A.I. of Zai''s caliber.


    "Then how can we be sure that he will not just become another Manhunter?" Green Lantern inquired, annoyed.


    "We trust Zion," Wonder Woman answered. "With the amount of power he holds, it would not take an elaborate plan to enslave Earth''s population."


    "..."


    "..."


    Others remained silent at Wonder Woman''s words. Except for two, the others only knew of his transformations. They did not know about the cosmic force he wielded.


    ["There is nothing to fear. I am restrained to be in the Metaverse, to never gain physical form. Zion has also placed many protocols to wipe me in the event of compromise."]


    "Good," Batman commented. "What do you plan to do with Boit?"


    ["Boit is an opportunity for Earth to develop its technology. A group of scientists and engineers will be selected to study it."]


    "That''s a good thing, right?" Flash questioned, unsure.


    "Nope," Green Lantern answered. "What do you think the governments would do if they gained access to Boit?"


    "Weapons and war," Batman answered his sarcastic question.


    Superman, Martian Manhunter, and Wonder Woman nodded in agreement. With the number of weapons present on Boit, even the slightest misdirection could result in the death of countless people.


    ["That''s why only some of the trusted minds would be allowed to step foot on Boit. However, without my assistance, it would take them more than a decade to crack it."]


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    "On that topic, how is Luthor?" Superman asked, remembering his old friend.


    ["He is working."]


    "Lex working?" Superman was baffled. Lex was not someone who would work under anyone, especially his captors.


    ["Zion promised him a weapon that could take Superman down."]


    "..."


    "..."


    "..."


    "..."


    "..."


    "God," Superman covered his face with his hand.


    "Is he really going to?" Flash asked.


    ["Yes. A promise is to be kept."]


    "What kind and why?" Batman inquired.


    ["The weapon has not been drafted."]


    ["The reasoning behind this is similar to revealing your identity to the Joker. The show ends if the trick is revealed. If Superman is gone, he himself would bring him back. It''s a perpetual cycle."]


    "Haaa," Superman sighed hard. "Let''s move on. What are we to do now that the Manhunters are defeated?"


    ["The decision is yours, I shall not interfere henceforth."]


    With that, Zai retrieved his presence from the Watchtower. A basic A.I. would handle the processes of the facility from this point on. He had higher responsibilities than managing a team of heroes.


    The Leaguers turned, looking to each other for direction. Batman was the one to respond by standing up.


    "I will take my leave; my city needs me," Batman spoke before he was boomed out.


    "Then we all return to our own work," Green Lantern said as he stood up.


    "Should we share our numbers?" Flash asked.


    "Don''t worry, when it''s time, we will meet again," Martian Manhunter answered.


    "It was good seeing you all," Superman said his farewells.


    "May the Gods protect you," Wonder Woman said her goodbye.


    Each of them was boomed back to where they were taken from, to their normal lives with heroics and fighting supers. But from today on, they are not alone in this fight. They''ve got friends they can ask for help from.


    .


    .


    .


    Kara''s movements were like a dance, refined and graceful.


    She flowed smoothly through the group of people, weaving without a shake in her steps. Her hand held a tray full of beer and snacks. The liquid in her glass didn''t move as she danced through the crowd, arriving at the table and placing the cups with a click.


    "Would you like anything else?" she asked in a neutral tone with a stone face.


    "Ahh, a buzzkill," one of the drunkards groaned, seeing Kara''s uninviting expression.


    "We don''t need anything," the drunkard''s friend was mindful enough to answer.


    "Why not smile with that cute face of yours?" one of the drunkards from another table shouted before another man jumped in to close his mouth.


    Kara didn''t listen to the banter behind her and left the table to bring in the bill. She also attended to the other customers and took their bills before walking back to the counter. She placed the orders and carried the prepared dishes back to the tables.


    She was back to working at the restaurant, taking the night shift due to the lack of manpower. She also liked that she could be at ease here. After breaking a few bones really helped, and now people don''t even mess with her.


    Her anger issues were also being soothed by being chewed out by the manager. Her name was Grace, and she was anything but graceful. She was a heavy-duty machine that would shoot you down with words.


    Kara was going through some serious character development.


    "Your shift''s over, Kara," the manager shouted. "Leave on time; I can''t pay you overtime."


    "Okay," Kara agreed as she walked back to the counter and made sure she hadn''t left anything out before putting on her leather jacket and leaving. Unlike other waiters, Kara wore normal clothes. Her denim jeans and black T-shirt had never been smudged once.


    Kara left through the back door. Her breath immediately condensed as she stepped out. Tonight was especially cold. She looked up at the starry sky; it was clearer in Kansas than in Metropolis. Enjoying the cold wind and the silent night, she began her walk home.


    She traversed the empty road, flanked by empty fields. She could hear the crickets and the wild insects moving about. The life of the night was awakened today. As she traversed the silent scenery, her thoughts drifted to the battle with the Manhunters from a week prior.


    Zion had not made an appearance since, which was abnormal due to his persistence in contacting her once in a while. Kal-El informed her of his absence due to a mission that no one knew about except Zai, who refused to answer her.


    His absence only caused her to worry. Zion was someone she could consider Chaotic Neutral. He did care for justice, but his methods were very unorthodox. Even the way he ruled, with the slow changes in economy and law¡ªshe could tell the small changes in the people, ever so slightly.


    ara


    ka..ra


    kara


    "Kara."


    Kara snapped towards the sound, her eyes sharp as she scanned for the originator. Yet all she could see were the empty farmlands and nothing else. Yet the atmosphere had changed¡ªthe sounds of insects were no more.


    Kara tensed, ready for a fight.


    "Kara!" a voice screamed. A brilliant fire lit up in the night sky. A great flame swirled around the air as the lands scorched. A portal, blazing in inferno, opened, spilling out a meteorite that crashed into the land below.


    Kara turned to the spatial tear, her eyes meeting the hundreds of horrendous creatures trying to crawl out. Her ears were filled with the wails of a thousand souls, each screaming for redemption. A great demon stared back at her, its eyes filled with venomous luster, its lips curling into a sadistic smile.


    The demon moved forward, trying to claw its way out of the portal, yet before it could act, a massive beam of heat vision collided with it. Kara held nothing back as she blasted the demon with full force. She could feel the innate fear rising in her heart and the sinking feeling in her stomach; she could not let the demon enter.


    To her fortune, the portal began to close, the crack in the dimension mending itself together to stop the otherworldly creatures from entering. The great force mended the crack and sealed it shut, but the breach would forever leave a scar in the dimension.


    Kara watched where the gate was for a moment, making sure that the breach did not reopen. Confirming, she quickly moved toward the meteorite.


    The licks of flames died down, revealing a smooth black cocoon filled with specks of light. Kara touched the surface, cold to the touch. She pressed her hand against the hard surface and pushed with all her might, causing cracks to appear.


    However, she didn''t need to force the cocoon anymore, as the cracks began to spread. The cracks fully extended across the cocoon before it turned to light and dispersed, revealing what was hidden.


    Kara''s eyes shook as she saw the person inside, her hands moving quickly to check on him. But his skin was red with burns, wriggling like worms. His breath was labored, and his heart was beating dangerously slow. He looked aged, his beard curled to a crisp.


    She tried to move him but noticed something¡ªor someone¡ªcovered with his long coat, clutched in his hands. She pried the object from his hands, making sure not to harm him. She removed the long coat to see a small child, no older than 10, unconsciously quivering. She checked the girl to make sure she was unharmed. There was no anomaly except for her gray skin.


    "Urg," a groan escaped Zion''s lips, his eyes opening slightly. "Z..ai."


    His voice was near a whisper, but Kara understood. She immediately dived to Zai, and before an answer came, the space cracked and swallowed them. Kara saw the scene shift as they appeared back in a room that seemed to be a medical bay.


    Small robots quickly appeared, carrying both patients to their beds. The small automatons moved quickly as they brought a serum of unknown origin and injected it into Zion. The automatons then moved to his blisters and cut them open. Kara saw worms wiggling under his burns, causing her to gag.


    The automatons quickly removed them with precision, making sure not to leave one behind. Zion groaned in pain throughout the surgery. The automatons then quickly stitched the wounds, and a biofield was generated to accelerate his healing.


    After a few minutes of waiting, Zion opened his eyes, turning his head to meet Kara''s. A small smile appeared on his lips as he gave a weak wave.


    "Where the hell were you?" Kara questioned.


    "Hell," Zion answered.

 87 - In Hell

    [Log entry: Day one, Log 1 ]


    I have arrive at Hell, but on the hindsight, I might have messed up.


    Really messed up, its hot as summer in here. Even with my suits cooling system I am sweating like crazy. The sticky feeling I get while moving my limps is annoying me. This is hell alright, it is made to annoy me to death.


    And I am stranded in a crimson desert that spans in all direction with no end in sight. All I can see is red sky and crimson sand. The very air here smells sulfur and ash, the stuffy feeling of malice oozing off the sand. It all giving me goosebumps.


    Hell! Freaking hell!


    I shouldn''t have jumped without a thought. I can''t believe I was rushing this, but I can''t have Raven suffering any longer. She should have already enough character progression. I thought to use Hell as my crossroad to travel to Trigon''s kingdom since its one of the relam that connect to hell.


    Yet again, my calculations have been wrong.


    Hell was made to torture the souls that enter it, dividing people by belief. Normally, the people of different belief would spit into their respective Hell. But, I know all of them are very real, even through my faith is still one.


    I don''t know how I broke the system, by it has thrown me somewhere I don''t recognize. There are also no demons for me to ask direction. How in the hell does John Constantine come and go here? Oh wait, he makes deal with the devil on daily basis. It was my fault for not getting a demon navigator. I should have pulled Constantine with me here, but again, Demons will try to kill us the moment they see his stupid face.


    God, what a pain.


    This is such a pain! I should just go Kratos and break the freaking map!


    But can''t do that, if I do that, Life and Death would be swapped and people have no place to be condemned for their sins.


    Everything is so complicated.


    .


    .


    .


    [ Log entry: Day 3, Log 12 ]


    I have been roaming this sandy desert for the last three days, watch time. But I feel time flowing in different directions. One moment, its accelerating forwards, other slow or in reverse. Time in hell had become complicated.


    I feel like I have walked for a month.


    Haven''t come across any Demons yet. I am still searching for a way out. The food supply in my storage would last me an year, but I don''t know how much longer I can go. I can feel my body weakening with each passing moment.


    Hell is trying to keep me here. I need to find a way out of this hell.


    .


    .


    .


    [ Log entry: Day 6, Log 45 ]


    I tried walking for another three days, but I have not found any exit. I am stranded and the temporal flow is a messy soup noodle. I am so annoyed now, but I got two liters of water filtered from my sweat and piss.


    I could consider it a good thing.


    I have stopped walking and now camping in one of the sand dunes. Since the sky is always red, I got no way of telling if its night or not without my watch. I have been feeling more exhausted everyday, my biomass reducing significantly. I don''t plan on walking anymore, it is about time I thought of breaking free from this hell.


    But how the hell did I come here in the first place?


    My memories have become foggy...I remember jumping through a green portal, but how did I create it? Something is messing with my consciousness. Yet again, I have no power to stop it. I am just a human stranded in a freaking desert.


    .


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    .


    [ Log entry: Day 10, Log 67 ]


    I have gone through my previous log, I know why I am in hell. But the problem is that I have no idea what my name is. I have lost most of my core memories, I don''t even remember what I lost. So many hole that I have no way of filling it all up. I have also lost memories on how to operate the suit I am wearing. I feel like I am missing something, something that would get me out of this predicament. But I got no memory of how nor where. Its a good thing that the suit runs in auto, but why does this suit doesn''t have any voice. This is hell. I am slowly loosing myself while staying here for who knows how long. The supplies in my storage is already finished.


    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    How long have I been here?


    .


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    .


    [ Log entry: Day 20, Log 256 ]


    The log have been keeping me sane, but are they? I feel disconnected from the. voices. I tinkered with the database and found my name. Zion. That''s my name. I feel like the ones before me were stupid to not see it.


    It''s literally on the log registry.


    How can they be this stupid? Can''t they do anything without whining about their detonating Memories? Idiots.


    See me, I got no memories of what nor why, but I am keeping myself together. Even as I walk through the empty desert for hours on end. Even as my body is nothing but bones. Even as I feel real exhausted to the core.


    Moreover, my instincts tell me to never stop moving. I have been feeling that something is following me. Something akin to a hunt. It will pounce on me the moment if feels that I have noticed it.


    .


    .


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    [ Log entry: Day 25, Log 302 ]


    That thing that has been following me has been persistent.


    It has been following me for months on end now. Meanwhile, I am running out of the food capsules that have been kept for emergency. it taste like the mix of all that you hate. But it is the only thing that keeps me on my feet.


    .


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    [ Log entry: Day 30, log 347 ]


    I am done running!


    For days I stopped counting, that stupid thing that''s following me have not even attacked me. If its going to follow me, it should have attacked. What the hell is its problem? Is it trying to tire me to death.


    If it is, its going to freaking die before me.


    I had enough of this BS. I am about to kill it. This suit has weapons, weapons that are strong enough to keep Superman at bay. However, who is superman? He seems powerful. I don''t know what the past me was thinking?


    But I should kill this idiot that was tracking me.


    .


    .


    .


    [ Log entry: Day 30, Log 350 ]


    I have stopped walking, picking a tent on a sand dune. I have placed all the traps around the tent, I just need it to step on it. The trap were really easy, it all even came with a manual. I don''t know why I have some much ammunition too.


    Zion had prepared for a hard fight from all the explosives that he had brought. But its a good thing, it is a good thing. I just need that thing to die.


    I just need to wait.


    .


    .


    .


    [ Log entry: Day 30, Log 351 ]


    The traps had gone off, multiple at a time.


    I rushed out of my tent to check what I caught, grenade in hand. But to my surprise, I say the traps active by I could not see anything caught in it. The sensors in the device showed that there was something in the trip, but I physically can''t see it.


    But I didn''t have the time to worry nor think as a force swept me off the feet, throwing me down the dune. I rolled through the crimson sand, my body feeling whiplash. I couldn''t help but scream and cough, blood and saliva filling my mouth.


    The helmet I was wearing retreated, letting me experience the full front of the Hell''s atmosphere. The sulfur was suffocating, my eyes felt like they were dipped in acid. My skin reddened in pain, itching like no other. Each ragged breath only made my throat sore and twisted my stomach.


    This is hell alright.


    I coughed the blood and saliva and turned to my assailant. For the first time I saw the, their twisted, grotesque filled with hatred. Just looking at them cause my sense of revulsion to kick in. Their eyes seem to delight in my revulsion, a insatiable hunger for suffering.


    What in the Bloodborn shit is this?


    I pulled my gun, raining fire without a care and threw the grenade. The creature moved, at a frightening phase, rushing at me with its torn mouth filed with ragged teeth like cliffs edge. It avoided the explosion and the bullets. I retreated back while raining fire, trying to keep a distance between us. But the creature was fast, it was already closing distance made by my fall and I couldn''t hide anywhere in this desert.


    I jumped forward, avoiding the irregular claws that were aiming for my head and threw an explosive at the creature as I rolled on the ground. It was a sticky bomb that explode once in contact with a creature.


    *boom*


    I saw the creature try to removed it but it exploded into a thousand bits, it body mangled beyond recognizable. I rose to my knee and tapped the side of my neck, activating my gears again. The visor covered my face again, but I readjusted it to just be mechanical. after few attempts it was all just goggles and a breather that covered my nose and mouth.


    My sensors can''t seem to pick up demonic creatures.


    I can''t believe Zion didn''t think of this, Idiot. At least the explosives works on these creatures. God can''t believe I was this stupid.


    I berated myself a few more time before walking back to the traps. I could see it. Hound-like creatures, each more grotesque than the last. They look like amalgamation of all nightmare born of despair. Thankfully they were all locked in my trap and I don''t see any more of them around my tent.


    I could tell from the eyes that they were intelligent. I shot the first one on the head, the light based bullets from my revolver causing it immense pain as it drew its last breaths. I moved to the second one, and asked it how I could leave this place. The creature grunted, not wanting to answer. I shot it on the body, the bullets of light causing it to shrek in pain as they burned through the skin.


    I let it cry and moved to the next creature. This one saw me point the gun and immediately shred in submission. I shot its leg as a warning and moved to kill the rest of the creatures. I made sure to make them cry in pain before the slow death null their breaths. It was a horrible act but I felt no remorse in killing them. I have no mercy to give when my life was in danger.


    I had no memory, I can''t take the chance of dying in Hell without remembering who I was. I need to escape this hell or find a way to break hell''s effect on me. I changed the trap to allow the creature its moments, but the trap was now the leash that kept the creature in line. If it does something I could cause it maximum pain before I die.


    With the dog in tow, I began my journey in hell.


    Psalms 23:1-4


    The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name''s sake.

 88 - In Hell 2

    You guys like the first person POV


    ---


    **[Log entry: Day 40, Log 473]**


    I have been walking the dog for too long.


    I already know that he is leading me to my death. It does not take two brain cells rubbing together to realize that the demons have gotten stronger and more humanoid. They have gone from looking like a grotesque mangle of flesh to somewhat resembling a demon, and they also have gained more brain cells compared to those before.


    But all those I met only had a resemblance of conscience, with a slight ability to think. Most were just attacking with instincts. The dog had two brain cells more than the others, it listens to orders well¡ªexcept when it leads me into traps.


    They really tried hunting me when I got explosives.


    And this dog had gotten more like a dog from eating all the others. Of course, I feed it; I am not a demon. Hehehe, it''s funny to say that in hell for some reason. I wonder if I will meet some good demons who are going to try to take my soul for guiding me out of this hell.


    But can they?


    .


    .


    .


    **[Log entry: Day 41, Log 499]**


    I wasn''t expecting to meet those demons I was talking about this soon¡ªgood.


    Following that treacherous dog, I have arrived at what seems like a waypoint. A small city filled with demons of different sizes and shapes, looking like monsters from some souls game. But what is a souls game? I have zero idea, but it''s in my knowledge for some reason. And my hand trembles every time I think about it.


    Whatever, I now need to find a way to sneak into the city and meet a higher-ranked demon. I don''t think walking into the den of demons would be the best way. Maybe my old self should have brought that John guy.


    Now what do I do?


    .


    .


    .


    **[Log entry: Day 41, Log 501]**


    Okay, the plan is to sneak in, find the more sentient demon, and ask it to guide me on how I can get my memories back. Once I get my memory back, I can plan the rest later. More information, more solutions.


    I have already deduced the plan. The suit has a stealth option.


    However, the problem is how much this stealth can work. The tech can''t detect spiritual beings with sensors, especially in hell. How the hell did he not create tech that can detect spiritual beings? Or did he get lazy thinking he could just see them with his eyes?


    I bet all my shit that it was the latter.


    He probably thought that he was being slick, but he has now put me in a mess. Let''s just hope that the stealth works. As long as the demons don''t detect me, I should be fine.


    Let''s hope that it works.


    .


    .


    .


    **[Log entry: Day 41, Log 502]**


    It works, although a bit weirdly.


    Demons can''t seem to see me, but when I cross them, they turn their eyes toward me. It''s like they can sense my presence, but other senses don''t detect me.


    Stealth is not the best of my forte. I have an itch to kill everyone I come across so I don''t leave any witnesses. It''s like an itch that can''t quite be scratched.


    But I am inside this shitty city. The demons are not acting like demons. Everyone is so chill on the streets¡ªvery happy to be alive, I guess, in hell?


    Okay, I take that back. I just saw what was happening in the alleyway. Some demons torturing other smaller and weaker demons. All of them look like they eat chili with cheese topping and a side dish¡ªalways angry. However, I decided not to interfere with all the ruckus. I am in stealth. I am a ninja who is walking in the middle of the fuckin'' street.


    Hell is really just Gotham on its bad night, huh?


    Another thought with no context. More thoughts without context are popping up now and then. My memories should be reaching for me. I will get them later. Now I need to find where the head of the city is.


    I jumped above buildings and ran on the rooftops toward that rising building in the center. I guess that should be where the head of this place is.


    .


    .


    .


    **[Log entry: Day 41, Log 503]**


    I have found the guy who is leading this city.


    It is a skinny demon wearing pants, with glasses, and looking like he should be running a firm. Who in hell died and made him head? But if he is in this position, it means that he has the power to keep the other demons in check.


    I am not dumb enough to just reveal myself and demand answers. Yet for some reason, I get the feeling that I would have done just that. What the hell was my old self thinking? Did he have a death wish? Is that why he jumped into hell? Is he suicidal? Now I don''t want my memories back.


    Whatever, I need to make sure that everything will go right if I reveal myself. So, I turned on my suit''s defenses. I don''t know if the suit can handle spiritual attacks, but it should tank physical attacks.


    I revealed myself.


    .


    .


    .


    **[Log entry: Day 41, Log 504]**


    Okay, things didn''t go as planned.


    The guy didn''t react with any aggression, or any reaction for that matter. When I asked him why, he answered that it was not the first time he had seen a human appearing in hell. He also mentioned that John-guy frequents more than he should and brings all kinds of trouble.


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.The dude was chill; I didn''t know demons were chill like that.


    "Do you know how I can get my memories back?"


    "It''s a side effect of entering Hell without preparation; they will return when you are out of hell''s influence."


    "Okay, then do you know how I can get out of hell''s influence?"


    "It''s easy, you just need to get out of Hell."


    "How do I get out?"


    "Just return like you came in."


    "I don''t know how¡ªno memories."


    "To get memories, you need to get out of hell''s influence."


    "How?"


    "Get out of hell."


    "I can''t."


    "Then there are other ways."


    "Other ways?"


    "Yes, a demon contract."


    "Where do I get one?"


    "I can provide it for you."


    "What''s the price?"


    "Your soul."


    "Okay."


    With that, I made a contract with the demon to sell my soul. He then did something and drew a spell circle in the air, pointing it at me. My suit put up a shield, but it just passed through and hit my body. A spell circle expanded around me, chains reaching from the darkness trying to chain my soul.


    The black, smoke-like chain reached to the depth of my soul, which feels like a bad idea¡ªfor the demon. The chain reached far and farther but never reached my soul. I could tell that it was being devoured by something.


    Even the demon looked shocked as he saw the spell drain of its color.


    "You a-are... soulless."


    "Huh?"


    "How can an abomination like you without a soul enter Hell?"


    "Don''t be dumb, now give back my memories."


    I demanded as the demon degenerated into a mad mess. The veins on his body bulged as he turned red like a tomato. His figure twisted and grew in unequal proportions. He looked like a twisted abomination as he filled the space with his mass.


    "Since you dare to scam me with a contract, I shall show you a world of pain and make you beg to be my toy."


    The mass of red kept talking, but his twisted vocal cords were not the best in conveying his emotions in words. I will ask another demon then since this guy doesn''t want to talk.


    "Whatever dude, I am leaving."


    I said and turned away, leaving the twitching demon alone. But he didn''t want to. He lifted his comically large hand and punched out. I, in reflex, crossed my arms. I felt the force of collision travel through my body, the suit glowing in resonance. The force that was traveling through my body disappeared, and the massive hand moved no further.


    I tilted my head, confused a bit. Did my suit just absorb the force?


    [Threat detected!]


    [Shifting mode to combat!]


    Wait! You''re telling me you have a combat mode? Hey, answer me.


    [...]


    The system is not auto? Freaking kidding me! But that''s not the point I was focused on. The suit that looked like a coat was now getting tighter, neon gold flowing like veins through its fabric. The lines extended to my arms, the structure of the black sleeves changing to that of golden gauntlets while a golden circle with a cross appeared on my chest with many golden veins flowing through the rest of my suit.


    Okay, Past Zion really did come prepared. He built the suit.


    [Target: Demon]


    *shizzle*


    I didn''t have the time to wonder as the sound of sizzling flesh and the cooking smell filled the room. I looked to the front to see the demon pull its hands back, its disfigured face still wearing glasses. It looked to be in very much pain and agony.


    "How can you possess Holy energy?"


    The demon cried as he reeled in fear, but I could only be shocked. Holy energy? Did my suit function on Holy energy? Damn, I did come prepared. Then... I reached into my coat and pulled out an item that was with many grenades.


    The Iron Cross, blessed by holy water, stolen from the church.


    I pointed the Cross at the demon. The demon instantly scurried away from it as if it saw its worst enemy. Seeing this, I couldn''t help but grin.


    Heheheheheheh HaAHAHAHHAHAHAHHA.


    "Now you are under my


    control, Demon! Answer my inquiries with nothing but truth, or I shall vanquish you to hell." I said proudly.


    "Huh? But I am already in hell."


    I pushed the cross forward, frightening the man further. "Stop refuting me, mutt! I am trying to be cool. Now answer me, how can I get my memories back? And tell me where Trigon is?"


    "Your memories will return the moment you leave this ring and enter the Nine Rings of Hell. Trigon''s realm is in the sixth ring."


    "Then where am I?"


    "The Forbidden Zone, the outer rim of Hell where twisted souls with no redemption arrive."


    "How do I get out of here?"


    "You need the seal of the Demon Lord of the Forbidden Zone, Nytemayr."


    "Where is he?"


    "At the edge of the Forbidden Zone, sleeping." The man moved in a hurry and pulled something similar to a compass. It was a meatball with an eye. "It will take you to him."


    "Okay." I snatched the eyeball from him. I was very much grateful that I was wearing gloves. I looked at the mass of wiggling flesh and put the cross back into my pocket. I pulled something else out and handed it to the demon.


    I then jumped out of the window, just in time for the man to cry in horror as the Holy bomb exploded.


    ...

 89 - Trial

    [ Log entry: Day 42, Log 509 ]


    I was walking my dog today, under the bright red sky of the Forbidden Zone of hell.


    Multitude of Demons walked behind me, following in my footsteps. They really are good followers, shifting to my side the minute I killed their head. The whole city of demon was now on my tail, showing their acceptance of me with sharp spears. Their voices collective screamed my moniker with so much emotions, which I still don''t understand. I am not well versed in demonic, yet demons were well versed in human.


    Yes, they were trying to kill me.


    I know they were trying to kill me. The few spears that few past my face was a clear indication if any. I was keeping them on my trail, making sure that they followed me. I need food for my Dog. I need a dummy to throw at Demon Lord.


    But on the contrast, my calculation might have been wrong. The dog was gaining form in a twisted way, looking more like a hound with multiple screaming faces on its body. I don''t know what I was creating, what kind of abomination going to come out of this, but I will let hell deal with it.


    Not my problem to deal with.


    If a new demon dog were to go on a rampage in hell, is it my problem. As long as it doesn''t come back to bite me, I am chill.


    And I just Jinxed myself, freaking awesome.


    .


    .


    .


    [ Log entry: Day 45, Log 527 ]


    I think I am near the Demon lord, the meaty eyes is shaking too much to my liking.


    Since that I am near the Demon Lord, I think it is time for me to cut my tail. The dog was also hungry. With that thought, I planted most of my traps around me before I used the anti-gravity boots hover above the red sand and walked behind the sand dune, waiting.


    The suit had many other functions, with the combat mode unlocked, many other options showed themselves to me. From flight to Force field constructs, multitude of weapon array. The guns were still full.


    From the amount of weapons I had, I was prepared to fight through hell.


    But I could tell there was something more, something more powerful at my hands but I can''t ell which. It like a locked memory, known and unknown, I had knowledge of it existence yet I can''t grasp its essence. I will figure it out after I get the memory. Maybe I will gain a power-up.


    But I had to shift my attention, the traps had gone off.


    I turned to see many demons confined in the force-field, their body chiseling against the light cage. However, not all were caught in the traps. The uncaught demons looked around in alert. Their numbers were few, sizes differing like a child''s lego build, irregular.


    I got up from the sand, dusting my coat and drew my SMG. The demons turned to me immediately, lusting at my delicious flesh, yet they would savor non. The trigger was pulled and the light bullet pierced the demon that was charging first.


    I pulled the trigger, unloading a barrage of bullets, knocking and harming most demons in the process. But the demons pushed forward, clawing the sands as they rushed to feast on my flesh. The bullets only caused them pain as it dug into their body, I needed to hit their heads to end them. But with how fast they were moving, I could only successfully hit their body even with a rain of bullets.


    The demons closed the distance, claws reaching for my head. But that what I wanted. I sheathed the SMG and pushed back. The sand dune was tall enough to give me few seconds of flight. I caught the hand of the demon, pulling him with me down hill.


    With a turn, I pulled my shotgun, and pushed the barrel against the demon before pulling the trigger. The shotgun roared, spitting out a slug with a deafening blast. The recoil jolted through my arms, but I kept steady as the slug tore through the demon''s chest, leaving a smoking hole where its heart used to be. It crumpled to the ground with a guttural scream, but there was no time to savor the victory.


    I pumped the shotgun, the action smooth and automatic. The empty shell casing clinked as it ejected, spinning through the air before clattering to the ground. Without missing a beat, I adjusted my aim to the next target, a lanky demon with spindly limbs and a mouth that stretched too wide, sliding on the loose sand.


    BOOM.


    Another shot, another demon down. Its body convulsed as the slug blew through its skull, splattering its twisted brains across the red sand. The air was thick with the acrid scent of gunpowder and the screams of the dying.


    I felt the shotgun click empty after the third shot. My hand moved on instinct, reaching to my belt where the extra slugs were stored. I pulled out a fresh one, the silver glinting in the red light, and slammed it into the chamber. The familiar click of the reload was like music to my ears.


    Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    I twisted around just in time to catch a demon lunging at me from the side. A wiry, sinewy thing with claws like daggers. I didn''t flinch. The shotgun came up in a flash, the barrel mere inches from its face.


    BOOM.


    The blast blew its head clean off, the body collapsing in a heap at my feet. Another spent shell flew out, spinning away as I pumped the shotgun once more. The rhythm of battle had taken over now¡ªshoot, pump, reload, shoot. My movements were fluid, almost mechanical.


    The demons kept coming, but I wasn''t slowing down. The shotgun barked again and again, each shot finding its mark with deadly precision. I danced through the chaos, weaving between the lunging bodies, always one step ahead. My senses were sharp, every detail clear¡ªthe heat of the muzzle, the crunch of shells underfoot, the adrenaline coursing through my veins.


    As I took down the last of the immediate attackers, I felt the shotgun click empty once more. My fingers were already reaching for another slug, but something in the air changed. My fingers paused, tracing the cold shell, my eyes surveys the surrounding.


    There were no more demons to kill.


    Breathing heavily, I surveyed the carnage, my heart still pounding from the adrenaline. The shotgun felt warm in my hands, a reliable partner in this hellish battle. I slung the shotgun back over my shoulder, stepping over the corpses as I calmed back. The demons burned away with my steps, turing to the dust in the wind.


    I arrived to the caged demons, bodies of ripped demons littered around them. My dog dug into those corpses, chewing the twisted flesh, savoring the taste. I let the dog eat as I moved to the caged demons, unloading the slugs on each one, exorcising them.


    .


    .


    .


    [ Log entry: Day 46, Log 535 ]


    Few days had passed in my perspective, terrain changing from red sand dunes to brunt volcanic rocks. Hot lava flowing through the veins. The climb was getting harder and harder, the terrain a challenge to be over come, a trail to be surpassed.


    I had already spent at least an year in this hell hole, traversed the red desert for unknown distance. Guided up this eyeball-compass wiggling in my hand, pointing towards the direction of Nytemayr, the Lord of the Forbidden Zone. It wasn''t exactly the most reassuring guide, but it was all I had.


    But my sixth senses says that I am getting close, an unease creeping under my skin. Even thought normally I would have ran away, considering that I was trying to meet with the Lord of the Forbidden Zone. My senses were as calm as a lake in winter, frozen cold. I had no idea why I don''t fear a demon lord.


    Maybe I was strong enough to take him out.


    .


    .


    .


    [ Log entry: Day 47, Log 543 ]


    I have arrived at a standpoint,


    A chasm that stretched to the horizon, filled with unending darkness. Howls of horror and nightmare echoed of jaggered wall of the chasm.


    Deep within the chasm, I could see a massive structure¡ªan ancient, crumbling fortress carved into the side of the abyss. It radiated an aura of dread, a malevolent energy that would make ones hair stand up. Not for me though.


    This had to be the place. Nytemayr''s lair.


    I activated the hover booths and jumped towards the fortress. The walls of the chasm were lined with jagged spikes and the remains of those unfortunate enough to have fallen into this abyss. The closer I got, the more intense the aura of fear became, pressing down on me like a physical weight. My suit''s defenses flared, the golden glow brightening as it fought against the oppressive energy.


    Finally, I landed at the entrance of the fortress¡ªa massive, iron door adorned with demonic symbols and carvings. The eyeball-compass in my hand went limp, its purpose fulfilled. I tossed it aside and approached the door, feeling the overwhelming presence of Nytemayr just beyond it.


    Taking a deep breath, I kicked the door open. It groaned in protest, the sound echoing through the cavernous hall beyond. As I stepped inside, the temperature dropped sharply, my breath visible in the frigid air. I couldn''t help but try to form smoke rings, but to my horror, I could not form it.


    The hall was lined with towering statues of demons broken and battered, unseen eyes following me as I walked. At the far end of the hall, seated on a throne of blackened bones and twisted metal, was Nytemayr.


    He was immense, his form barely contained by the throne. His fur was the color of midnight, etched with glowing red runes that pulsed with dark energy. His eyes, burning like twin suns, locked onto me the moment I entered. His twin horns twisting like a crown on his head. Two bat like wings laid to the side.


    "You dare enter my domain, mortal?" Nytemayr''s voice was a deep, guttural rumble that shook the very walls of the fortress.


    I stopped in my tracks, feeling the full assault of his breath bearing down on me. But I had come too close to back down now. My fingers flexed, ready to reach for my weapons at a moments notice and blow a hole through this towering figure.


    "I''ve come for your seal," I said, my voice steady despite the fear gnawing at my insides. "I need it to leave the Forbidden Zone."


    Nytemayr''s eyes narrowed, and for a moment, I thought he would try to strike me down where I stood. But then, a low, rumbling chuckle escaped his lips.


    "You''re either brave or foolish, mortal. Few have the audacity to demand anything of me, let alone my seal."


    I kept my gaze fixed on him, "I''m not leaving without it."


    Nytemayr leaned forward, his massive form casting a shadow that engulfed me. "Very well. If you seek my seal, you must prove yourself worthy. Survive my trials, and I will grant you what you seek. Fail, and you will join the countless souls who have perished in this abyss."


    Without another word, the floor beneath me began to tremble. The stone cracked and split. But I stood in place, my hover boots still active. I looked to the Demon Lord, my eyes questioning his action.


    The Demon lord looked flustered, not exactly confronted with a possible scenario. Seem like, non who came to him had failed to fall into his trap. This was probably the first.


    "Ahem... You need to complete the trial if you want the seal," The Demon Lord repeated.


    I folded my arms, raising a brow. The intensity in my eyes increase, as I calculated the moved. But I had a strike of Idea, even though an Idea could not hurt me.


    "Ok, I will do your trail But do you promise to keep the end of your deal?" I questioned, I need him to agree.


    "I shall," The demon agreed, not hiding his smugness. He is definitely planning of stabbing me in the back.


    "The deal is done Demon, with GOD as our witness,"


    I pulled the cross out and threw it towards him. The Demon freaked as golden chains sprout from it and borrowing into the demons heart. The deal was made, if I succeed, I would gain the seal to leave. If the demon were to cheat me, he is about to get exorcised.


    "You!!!"


    "Peace out!" I stopped hovering, flashing the brightest smile I could muster before falling into the darkness.

 90 - Nightmare

    "Hmmm,"


    My throat hummed, the spring breeze caressing my face. A deep breath burned my lungs no longer, the depressing smell of sulfur was no more.


    I glanced down at my hands¡ªwere small and thin, like a child''s. I am shorter too. I pulled at my t-shirt, the fabric rough with too much bleaching. The strings strained from the simplest of pull. I moved my toes, digging against the sand. The smell of rough grass tickled my nose.


    This is different than I imagined, I was more or less expecting a death match with waves of demons and nightmarish creatures while traversing a dungeon filled with traps. But this trial seem to bring me to the past.


    This place, this playground bring a sense of nostalgia, its from the memory that I no longer remember. A part of me that I have forgotten.


    "Zion, It''s time for lunch,"


    A voice, familiar, called me with sternness. I turned to the man who called me. He looked tall, his hair and eyes black. The man wore a priest robe while having a commanding aura. I could tell that he was someone I knew, or had known. But nothing came to my mind.


    "Stop looking like a lost cat and come in," He sternly commanded him.


    "Okay..." I answered?


    My body moved without much command, wearing the discarded slipper and walking towards the man. The steps were slow, filled with force as if I? didn''t want to follow him. The man waited patently for him, before he turned and walked in though the door.. I stopped caring about the body being out of control and looked at the building that we were going into.


    It looked a bit old, a bit gothic, with a cross at the height of its roof. It too looked a bit worn-down. This seem to be a church. I? followed the man through the door, the wooden door creaking with the movement. As I? followed him further, I could here the noise of children shouting, their muffled laughter.


    We arrive at a dinning hall, arranged with long table and many children who were sitting and shouting. They all seem excited as they sat disorderly. Acting like children they were. There were few older kids who were trying to clam them, while a priestess moved to straighten the disorderly children.


    "Zion, go take seat," The man commanded before he turned to the children. "Everyone, be calm."


    His voice thundered, making the children silent as they sat squirming.


    I? walked around the table, the gazed of the others stabbing me. They looked as if I am something dirty, something that didn''t belong with them. I? lowered my head, trying not to meet their gaze and walked to the end of the table. As I climbed on the chair, the kid next to me pulled away, making sure that he was not near me. He gave a disgusted looked as he covered his nose as if I smelled bad.


    "Let us pray," The priest said, lowering his head with his eyes and bring his hands together. The children followed him, getting ready to pray.


    "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.


    Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.


    Give us this day our daily bread.


    And forgive us of our debts, as we forgive our debtors.


    And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.


    For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.


    Amen!"


    "''Amen!''"


    The children''s voice echoed of the peeling wallpaper and the water-stained ceiling. They then immediately dug into their food. White rice with vegetable curry. It was not the best of foods, but seeing the dilapidated place, this was more than welcomed. I? ate the food silently while other chatted with their friends and enjoyed their meal.


    I could hear their whispers about me, calling me name, dirty monkey.


    I? gripped the spoon tightly as I could, holding back my breath to stop the lump in my throat. This emotions were not mine, the pain and loneliness this kid was feeling were not mine. I could tell, even if this was a fragment of my memories, I was nothing but a ghost watching it. My emotions were detached even the control were striped of me like I was in a cut scene.


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    I was just waiting for my turn to take control.


    But if this is how myself lived before, Damn! He had a shitty childhood. I would have slapped that kid to kingdom come and showed who glorious the day it was. I will be the top dog of this orphanage, if that was not clear before.


    Now, what is this trial? Should I just watch this without interfering? Or something messed up is going to happen and I need to do something good in a bad situation? Like hell I will, even if this trial is going to make me bad, I am going to end it all with a BAM!


    But I have zero knowledge on how to build back my weapons.


    "Thank you for the meal!"


    The kids finished their meals, the clattering of the utensils quieted, yet the waiting gazes of the children did not. The Pastor nodded his head, dismissing the children. The younger one jumped from their seats, scattering like sparrows, their chattering filling the air again. The older ones remained, gathering the plates and utensils for cleaning.


    "Not going to play Zion?" A familiarly soft voice asked,


    I? turned to meet the person with the voice, very undescriptive, I know. It was the Priestess or Sister. She looked down at me with a kind smile.


    "I am," I? answered before sliding off the bench with the plate on my hand.


    I? carried it to the back, and washed the plate and the spoon I used before heading towards the further-est of back, walls shadowed by the evening sun. The dense trees made the whole atmosphere creepy, added with the muddy ground, made the children doesn''t seem to want to come.


    I? walked through the dense trees and arrived at the back wall, where the wall had collapsed. I? jumped through, leaving the compound. I circled around the church carefully before walking towards the town. As I walked towards the town, I could feel myself regaining senses.


    The soft breeze against my face, the warm sun streaking across my face. The feeling of my rough cloths scratching against my skin. I? was finally able to breathe in deeply. The spring breeze tousled my hair, the scent of the fresh grass mixing with the distant smell of the town¡ªa blend of earth, baked bread, and the faintest whiff of oil.


    This world felt more alive and the senses returned to my finger. I curled my fingers into a fist before releasing them with a long breath. I was back in control, the buttons under my thumb. I could feel myself alive, less suffocated than in that stale air in the church.


    I left the church into the town, it was quiet but not eerily. It was peaceful, people enjoying their time in their homes with their family. Some were out on their porch, reading paper as they enjoyed tea. I walked making sure to keep an eye on everything. I need to find a way to end this trial and get back my memory.


    I walked further through the graveled road, watching the closed stores. Here and their, I caught the glimpse of people in there. Those who met my eyes immediately turned their head, as if meeting my eye would invite trouble. Like I want to meet you idiots. I wandered around the town, leaving the grey sentinel filled with cut scene.


    "Hey, Zion!" A young voice called.


    My head turned to the voice, both with and without my control. I am a curious person, okay. I want to see the person who would call me, especially as if he was meeting a friend unexpectedly. Those little mutts were really annoying, hurtful but also annoying. I just wanted to shove my fist into their face and make them eat shit.


    Huu, I need to calm down and deal with the situation at hand.


    I looked at kid who called me, he looked at me with the stupid grin plastered on his face. He looked like an idiot. But I could feel a different emotion in my body¡ªjoy, expectation. I scanned the kid again, he seem to be the same age as me. But brighter, more colorful, living in a different world than me.


    "I knew I would meet your today," He said those word smugly as he threw the ball towards me.


    I moved in instinct to catch it. I looked at the ball, patched and worn but still usable. I could tell that it was only few hits away from breaking. I looked back to him, my gaze carrying my question. The kid looked a bit surprised, before grinning again. He quickly moved few steps back.


    "C''mon, don''t just hold on to it. Throw it back," He said as he made more distance.


    I complied and threw the ball back at him. The ball arced through the air, falling just short of the kid. The ball bounced once before he caught it. I turned, ready to leave. I need to find a way out of this hell I didn''t have time to play.


    "Hey! where are you going?" The kid shouted, before following me. "Where are you going?"


    I could hear his steps following me. I kept moving forward wandering about. I turned in different corners randomly, walking around with no expectation. I was trying to stumble on the something that will help me out of this trouble.


    "You got no idea where you are going,"


    Oh, he was still following me.


    "You can tell me what you are looking for, I know places."


    I stopped and turned to him. I scanned him again. I think I could use this kid. Since he also part of my memories, he could also hold a part key to get me out of this trial. I should try all available options.


    "You know how to get out of Nightmare?"


    *DING DONG*


    The bell rung, my body froze at the sound of it. My head turned automatically, looking towards the towering church. The cross visible above the roofs. I pulled the head to look away, the controls slipping a bit. I could feel my body''s urge to return to the church as if on command. But I an''t going back yet. I need to find a way out.


    "Oh, it evening sermon," The kid remarked. "Are you not going?"


    "No," I answered resolutely, "Now answer my question, how do I get out of a nightmare?"


    The kid tilted his head, rubbing his chin as he squinted, thinking with his pea brain of his. I waited as he tiled his head left and right, squinting harder. Before his face brightened up with an idea, I could practically see a light-bulb floating above his head.


    "Its easy, you just wake up," He answered.


    I wanted to facepalm, "You really don''t have a thing running in that head of yours, do you?"


    "Well, you have never talk to me this long," The kid remarked scratching his head.


    "Ha," I could only scoff, "I better leave."


    "Going back to the church?" He questioned, it a bit annoying.


    "Yes," I answered, turning towards the church.


    "Then play with me for a for a time before your go," he said. "Maybe you will get an idea."


    I stopped, musing the suggestion. And my heart, which is beating with joy. Maybe, all I need to do was defeat loneliness.


    "Okay," I answered.

 91 - Nightmare #2

    We played for a while, tossing the ball back and forth.


    The stupid kid laughed and taunted happily, his joy infectious causing me to smile a bit. I could feel a slight joy rising in my heart. A bit loneliness and depression in the corner of my heart healing. I slowly stopped thinking about running out of this nightmare. I should take this time to relax a bit, after all, I did spend like three years traveling in hell.


    Maybe, for this moment, it could just be two kids playing in the fading light.


    *Ding*


    The Church bell rung again, causing me to turn. The bell indicating the 6 o''clock mark for the day.


    The sun was dipping in the horizon. The church casting long shadows, looking ominous. The dusk was at hand, painting the whole sky red, purple clouds drifting by. The whole scene only added more realism to this dream.


    "It time already," He remarked, standing next to me.


    "Yeah," I answered.


    "See you tomorrow then?" He asked, wanting.


    I shrugged, not exactly knowing my plans for tomorrow. Taking a step forwards and walking towards the church. I need a place to sleep, I rather not sleep in the cold. I also need to gather more info and then break out of this nightmare. I will try to leave this place tomorrow.


    Sooner I leave here, sooner I get out of Hell.


    "Hey Zion," He called.


    I turned to him, my body only half turned.


    "Catch," He threw the ball, which I caught instinctively.


    "You can have it," The kid remarked before running away, waving his hand frantically as he did so.


    I looked at the wornout ball and walked into the shadow dramatically, I could only twist my lips, it was funny. I pocketed the rough ball into my short and began to walk back to the church. With the sun setting, the night lights were lit bringing the town back to life, shops opening for the night, people coming out to enjoyed the cool night.


    Yet I walked through the shadows, keeping out of the people''s eyes.


    Twisting and turning, avoiding light like darkness, I arrived back at the church, the monolith standing like a shadow beast covered in shadow. I walked to the side and entered the praying hall. Walking in I saw the shadows dancing between pillars.


    The dim blub flickering above the cross. The shadows danced as I stood gazing at the cross that hung on the wall. This church, even though considered a holy place, held a very creepy vibe. They failed the vibe check all right.


    But as I gazed at the flickering orange light filled with warmth, I could only question.


    What did this place mean to me?


    Did I have fond memories of this place? Or just Disgust?


    Why is this place be my nightmare?


    Why am I an orphan?


    How did I go from this to jumping into hell?


    Did my parents got killed in an Alley?


    Why an alley?


    That so stupid way to die.


    Many questions drifted in my head, none I had the answer to. It was all just a mess. Its like I am walking a thin rope with my eyes blinded. Each step a risk, yet I am speedrunning it.


    "You are late," A voice I recognized spoke.


    I turned my sight from the cross to the man standing under it. His priest robes mixing perfectly with the shadows. I looked at him, not exactly in mood to answer. The priest looked at me for a moment before walking out of the shadow and into the light.


    "Can I know why you missed the evening sermon?" He asked, his tone curious and soft.


    "Not interested," I answered to satisfy his curiosity.


    "Not interested in the word of God? Or are you beginning to hate it?" He continued walking next to me and taking a seat at the bench.


    "Not interested," I repeated the answer.


    "Can I ask why?" He followed,


    I sighed, it seems like the guy would not leave without me giving him an satisfying answer. Since I had come to this, I will solve my? trouble. Because, next time I would beat the shit out of them little mutts.


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    "No word is going to save me from here," I answered, the here being Hell.


    "Why?" he inquired.


    "Its useless," I answered.


    "How?" He inquired again,


    "It changes nothing about my situation," I answered.


    "Why?" He kept his tone light and curious.


    "Because nothing have changed,"


    "What hasn''t?"


    "Everything and Everyone. All of them look at me like I am some disgusting creature."


    "So you don''t want to listen because the words change nothing?"


    "No. because those who listened didn''t change."


    "Understandable,"


    "Understandable?" I turned to him, my tone gaining a bite. "Understandable?"


    The priest looked at me with a smile, "I can preach, Zion. But it is up to those who listen to change."


    "Then whats the point? Nothing changes even if I listen or not," I answered.


    "Yes, it is you that change," He answered. "Change begin with self, not others."


    "Only once self change would not change my situation," I answered, one guy can''t change the world. "Me being good changes nothing. Others need to be ''Good''."


    "But what is good?" Question again.


    "Good is Good."


    "In 1600, sacrificing babies were good in tribes," He replied. not exactly the one I was expecting.


    "Being kind and not hurting others," I didn''t want to go down the hole of relative and objective morality. I would make me sound like a psychopath.


    "How do you know what is kindness?"


    "Everything that is done opposite to what I received?" I answered.


    The priest nodded, "That is right and wrong. Being kind is to care when others doesn''t."


    "That''s vague," I could only reply.


    "That''s why you need the word, to understand, to learn. Even if its only a bit," He smiled kindly, "Even if its a bit boring."


    I raised a brow at his behavior. "It is not me you need to lecture, but other."


    He nodded, "Yes, they do. But All we can do is show the way and help them when they stumble." He got up from the bench. "Now leave to your room and sleep. Don''t forget to attend the morning sermon."


    I huffed and followed him, taking a different turn towards the room. There were many rooms, but I followed my instincts and arrived at the shithole I am about to sleep in. You wondering why I am using such foul language, its because it a shared room with 19 other mutts.


    They all sat at their beds doing their thing, talking and chatting.


    As I stepped in, I could feel the air shift. Going from cheering to a chilling one. The eyes filled with malice, the whispers of gossips, words filled with hate. I wanted to sigh and begin drawing blood, yet I could feel my body shacking in anxiety. I instinctively followed my? body and arrived at the bed.


    I bed was cheap, the quill full of patched holes. I removed the blanket, ready to tuck in to get some sleep in. But I saw a frog sitting on the wet bed. I could hear the slight chuckle behind my back. I moved my hands, catching the frog and turned to the people who were chuckling.


    "Hehe, It seems like he wet his bed before he even sleep."


    "Do you think he will cry again! Hehe"


    "Such a pushover."


    I could see the idiots chuckling and laughing but it soon died when they realized that I was not giving them the usual reaction. I walked took a step forward, yet my body held in place. I could feel the fear shake through my body.


    I am annoyed now.


    How much had this body need to go through for it to feel this much pain?


    I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, letting my anger overwhelm the rising fear.


    Fuck them,


    I pounced at the kids, Fuck them kids! My fist swung, filled with anger and power, knocked him out cold before I turned and bit the arm of the shocked kids. Yes, I do not care. This is a kids fight and I am going wild.


    The kid took a moment to cry, his while finally snapping all the others. I punched him on the guts to shut him down and turned to the other kid. My lips twisted into a malicious grin, with the shadow covering my face, it added to the aura.


    I gripped his shirt and pulled him close, "You want frog?"


    "Wha-"


    I shoved it into his mouth and closed it. I stared into the eyes as he began to freak out with the live frog in is mouth. I could feel the fear rising in his very soul.


    Oh! sweat fear, I like it.


    It was rising in not only his eyes but the other. I removed my hand and gave him a very solid gut punch, causing him to spit the frog. His face also turned red due to his breath clogging. I gave him a slap which cleared it.


    I turned to the other guy who was getting up from my gut punch, his eyes were all angry. I slapped him, a thunderclap ringing in the room. It was like good dap that echo in an abnormally silent room.


    I moved next to the knock out, and checked his pulse, he was still breathing. I made sure that he was not chocking on his tongue or vomit before gently rolling him to the side. It was a good thing that he fell on the bed. It would have been a hassle lifting him up to bead without injuring his injured neck. {Just for educational purposes}


    He will probably have a concussion, but this is my nightmare, I don''t care.


    I turned to the other who were still rolling on the floor, their hands on their face and stomach. I moved to removed the bed from one of the idiots and took it to my bed. I removed the bed and placed the new one upside-down. I didn''t carry the bed to the other bed and let it lay on the floor.


    I climbed into my new bed and but figured that my quill was also wet. I threw it down and got the other one. I laid back on the pillow and closed my eyes.


    It took a moment, but I could hear others move. The whispers and guarded step. yet they moved around me and not next to me. I laid waiting for any idiot to make a move, but even after an hour, not one approached.


    It seems like beating three 10 year old really worked.


    I didn''t know when but I drift into my sleep. I have no idea how that even worked. But I just needed some shut eyes. I have not been in the best of conditions as of late.


    .


    .


    .


    I was called for beating up children,


    Yeah, I was not expecting that. What a total pussies? You did all that shit and I probably never spoke about it.


    So, I was standing in this poor image for an office with sister who was holding those three shits and the one I knocked out supported on the neck. It seems like he has a neck strain with a minor concussion. As for the other two, only the mark of my hand on their faces.


    Nothing much.


    "Zion, can I asked why you beat them?" Pastor asked patently, but I could tell he was stressing.


    I am going to add to it, "I just felt like it."


    "You felt like it?" The sister sounded baffled,


    "We told you, he just jumped at us and stated beating us. *Sob Sob*" They let some crocodile tears. I think its called crocodile tears because reptiles don''t cry? Don''t know the origin story.


    "Zion, I will ask you again, Why did you hit them?" He asked again patiently, I am on this ice but I am thick skinned.


    "They got a punchable face," I answered.


    "Zion, not only are you acting unruly but also disrespectful," Sister said her part.


    I couldn''t care less, it was fucking morning. "Am I done?"


    "haaaa," The priest sighed, a long one, before he looked at me in the eye and gave him a verdict. "You can leave Zion."


    "Pastor, we got to punish him," Sister again spoke her line.


    Pastor raised his hand, stopping her. He then turned to the kids. "Zion, you can leave."


    "See ya later then," I walked out, leaving them to deal with shit.


    I don''t care, I need to see what''s outside of this town.

 92 - Ending Nightmares

    I walked out of the church.


    The gravel crunched beneath my feet, each step an echo in the silence. The morning sun rained down in all its glory, the cloudless blue sky stretching far into the horizon. The playground was empty and abandoned.


    The children were inside, attending their makeshift classes in the orphanage school. The stillness of the air was punctuated only by the distant hum of cicadas.


    I easily escaped the church by simply walking out the front door. Unbothered by any presence.


    I had already snatched some bread for myself, stolen from the other kids. After the beating I gave last night, no one dared stop me. The pain on my knuckles bothered, but I couldn''t care. The bread was wrapped in a piece of old newspaper, tucked into the deep pockets of my worn-out shorts. It wasn''t much, but it would last me a few miles at least.


    I can learn to survive on scraps.


    I wandered into the town, my figure attracting many eyes. The streets were far more crowded than before, with people bustling about, heading to work or running errands. The air was thick with the smell of fried food and exhaust fumes. Morning rush, I guessed. I veered off the main road, taking an alley that ran parallel to it.


    I shifted through the shadows, sticking close to the walls to avoid the wandering eyes of strangers. I had no desire to be noticed, especially not now. I kept near the main road, knowing it would lead me straight out of town. I needed to get away, away from this place that smelled of despair and rot.


    I got to leave my past behind and learn of ways to get out of this nightmare.


    Turning a corner, I prepared to cross the street to continue my escape. But then I froze.


    Standing there, right in front of me, was someone I hadn''t expected to see. A small kid with tousled brown hair and a grin that was too big for his face. The stupid grin widened even more when he spotted me.


    I stepped back, instinctively sinking into the darkness and pulling back into the alley.


    "Hey, Zion!" he shouted, his voice annoyingly bright, piercing through the dreariness of the alley. "Wanna play with us?"


    I pulled back further into the alley, I''d already notice his friends, their change of expression when they heard my name. My stomach twisted with annoyance. I didn''t want to be dragged into his games or meet his friends.


    I need to escape.


    But I knew avoiding him was pointless. I could hear his footsteps speeding up, echoing off the narrow alley walls.


    "C''mon, it''ll be fun!" he said, bursting into the alley, grabbing my arm with surprising strength. He dragged me with him, pulling me toward whatever nonsense game he had planned.


    I tried to yank my arm away, but his grip was like iron. There was no escaping this. He dragged me back to his group, and before I knew it, I was reluctantly thrust into their stupid game. The other kids kept their distance from me, their eyes wary and filled with contempt. But He didn''t care. He just wanted to play, to have fun, and for some reason, he wanted me there too.


    He didn''t care that the others looked at me like I was diseased. He didn''t care that I didn''t speak much, or at all. He just wanted to be my friend.


    But friendship was a weakness. It was a chain that tied would tie me down, a shackle that would bound me to this nightmare. I needed to get out of this nightmare. But I couldn''t escape him, or his stupid persistence.


    The game dragged on for hours, a mindless bout of hide and seek in the edge of the town, among abandoned buildings and broken fences. I was forced to play, forced to endure their laughter and chatter.


    Finally, they tired out and we ended up back in the common room in one of the abandoned houses¡ªa bleak space with grey walls, grey floors, grey everything. I sat by the window, staring out at the fading sunlight. The other kids kept to the opposite side of the room, whispering among themselves.


    He plopped down next to me, his annoying presence a constant.


    "You know, you''re not so bad, Zion," he said, nudging my shoulder. His voice was soft, almost kind. "Just gotta let people in a bit, that''s all."


    I didn''t reply.


    He just kept smiling, like an idiot. And for a moment, I thought it was okay. it was fine to rest. I almost let myself think that maybe, just maybe, this wasn''t so bad either. But then I remembered why I was here. Why I need to get out.


    And the weird thought vanished like smoke,


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    Suddenly, the air around me shifted. It grew colder, heavier, almost suffocating. I felt myself being pulled into something¡ªa vortex of shadows and whispers. The world around me blurred, and when it came back into focus, I was somewhere else entirely. A narrow alley, its walls lined with rusted metal sheets and worn-out bricks. It was night now, and everything was cast in shades of grey and black.


    Ahead of me stood a crooked, two-story building that seemed ready to collapse under its own weight. The broken windows and peeling paint gave it the appearance of an abandoned factory, but I knew better. A chill ran down my spine.


    This place, this moment¡ªit was all too familiar. Like a nightmare I hadn''t visited in years.


    I? took a step forward, gravel crunching beneath my feet, and found myself inside. The floorboards creaked with every step, the air thick with an oppressive weight. It was as if the walls themselves were whispering secrets I couldn''t quite hear.


    The shadows flickered in and out of view, like distant memories. I could hear muffled laughter, hushed voices, but they were behind a veil¡ªdistant, unreachable. And then, another shift. Time blurred again and the color drained from my vision.


    I was in the back alley of the orphanage now. It was darker here, the shadows deeper, more suffocating. The laughter was gone, replaced by an eerie, haunting silence. My heart pounded in my chest, a sinking feeling settling in my gut.


    And then I saw him.


    The kid lay on the ground, motionless. His face was too pale, his eyes wide open, staring blankly into the night. Blood pooled around his head, dark and thick, the only color left in this world. It socked the dirt in red.


    "Mark?" I? called out, my voice barely more than a whisper. My? feet were rooted to the spot.


    No response.


    I took a shaky step closer, my breath catching in my throat. "Mark!"


    Still nothing. My mind spun in circles. This couldn''t be real. This wasn''t happening.


    But it felt real. Too real.


    I? took few more shaky steps, approaching closer. I? reached out with trembling hands, touching his shoulder. His skin was cold, too cold. I reached my hands to his neck, the action taking all my will as I screamed my body to move.


    Then I heard them¡ªthe voices.


    Whispers growing louder, more insistent, like a rising tide.


    "He did it."


    "It was Zion."


    "He killed him."


    I spun around, and there they were¡ªthe other kids. Their faces twisted with fear, anger, disgust. They looked at me like I was a monster. A killer.


    "No," I muttered, backing away. "I didn''t¡­ I didn''t do this."


    The voice and actions were out of my control.


    But their eyes bored into me, filled with accusation and contempt. They saw what they wanted to see. A monster and a prey to be trampled. I was an easy target. The perfect scapegoat.


    "He always hated him," one of them whispered.


    "He never wanted a friend," another added, his voice venomous.


    I stood my ground, forcing my legs, my heart pounding louder and louder in my ears. The walls seemed to close in, the shadows stretching and warping around me. I could feel the weight of their stares, their silent condemnation. I tried to speak, to explain, to deny it, but the words were stuck in my throat.


    The whispers grew louder, more vicious.


    "Monster."


    "Killer."


    "Freak."


    My will veined. I fell to my knees beside Mark''s body, the world around me spiraling out of control. My hands were stained with his blood. My head was filled with their voices, their hatred. I wanted to scream, to run, to disappear.


    Then, the shadows began to twist and stretch, pulling me deeper into the darkness. The world around me started to dissolve, the orphanage walls melting away like ash in the wind. The voices faded into a low, droning hum, leaving me alone in a vast, empty void.


    I crumbled, my voice and breath turned silence. I was cowered in darkness, alone and afraid. All I could hear were the voice of contempt and despair that filled my head. I curled up trying to protect myself.


    I heart pained as if thousand needles were stabbed.


    "Pathetic," A voice similar to his resounded in the void.


    All the emotion that were overwhelming were sliced by the voice. My mind cleared, the voices that screamed in my head died. I began to rememeber where I was¡ªin a Nightmare Trial. How could I forget that?


    "I thought sealing my memories would make me easier but nah," The voice spoke again. "It was a flop."


    I jumped up, my head snapping in the direction of the voice.


    "You.." My voice clogged.


    The other voice was me, or the me before I sealed my memories. I remember, I entered hell with Starhearts help. But the demons....Argh.. a pain shot through Zion''s head.


    The memories flooded in. The time where his body was thrown through many different hells. From Hades, underworld, even Mahayana. Due to his knowledge of other Godly realm, hell''s mechanism threw him around like a bounce balls.


    To solve this problem, he decided to seal his memory and leave some subconscious commands. He left some residue to bring him to the 9 circles of hell. The plan was successful and he lost his memories. His faded body would try to reclaim it memory on its own as it reached the destination.


    But the faded body had fallen into the Demons nightmare. Without memories, his will was weak, his existence was like a smoke. It was a facade that had no will nor existence, just a mindless goal. When the demons assaulted him with nightmare, he was caught off-guard and fell into the trap.


    He should have predicted it, Removing the existence of Omnitrix and Destiny was a path failure. He didn''t even know magic, just holy weapons and martial art. The faded body was not prepared for this.


    He finally remembered his quest, why he was here and how to get out of this nightmare. If his backup protocol to unseal his memories were not activated, his faded version would have shackled here.


    As Zion gained all his memories back, his other self vanished as if completed his purpose.


    His childish self vanished from the darkness, leaving Old Zion standing alone. The darkness crawled up his legs, reaching up to his throat. As the shadow crawled to his face, his uttered the words that would take him out of this nightmare.


    "The Lord is my light and my salvation¡ªwhom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life¡ªof whom shall I be afraid? Even in this darkness, I won''t let fear control me. He is my strength, and I will not be shaken."


    The words rippled out of the Zions mouth and into the darkness around him. The darkness began to crack, the golden lines extending his body from his body. The cracks expanded further and further, until gold replaced the darkness.


    "Even if I say, ''Surely the darkness will hide me,'' even the darkness is not dark to Him. The night shines like the day. I can''t hide, and I won''t. His light will find me, and I will find my way back."


    Zion uttered the words and opened his eyes, watching as a flaming sword tear through as A man with glazing golden hair and magnificent wings descended.


    "Michael took you long enough," Zion spoke as he smiled.

 93 - Knocking Door

    "Michael, you''re late,"


    Zion spoke as he gazed at the descending Archangel, Michael Demiurgos¡ªthe one who ended the war in Heaven. The one who carried the power of Yahweh Himself. The Guardian of Eden and the keeper of the Flaming Sword.


    He was known by many names, but he was also the twin of Lucifer Morningstar.


    The brightest of them all, he carried an aura like the first light piercing through darkness. His golden hair blazed like the sun, his divine armor shone brilliantly, and his white wings radiated purity. He was unblemished by the Abyss, his light driving away the shadows.


    He landed before Zion, illuminating the area around them. Zion could see the countless corpses littering the ground. Bones crunched beneath his feet as Michael''s cold eyes surveyed the carcasses surrounding them.


    Hell was not his favored destination.


    The Angel stood a head above Zion, forcing him to look up. Zion could finally see his face amidst the brilliance¡ªa creature so perfect. Zion knew that angels didn''t particularly like his kind. They don''t like humans, but his they don''t see eye to eye.


    Zion''s eyes drifted elsewhere, to the Flaming Sword.


    A weapon of unlimited power, the First Flames of Heaven. A perfect blade with an unquenchable fire. In Hell, it would be the ultimate executioner. With that weapon in hand, he could accomplish anything. Even fighting Trigon would be an easy feat. He would finally achieve the level of Doom Slayer. All of Hell would fear him.


    As he thought about all that he could do, he couldn''t help but drool. He needed the blade. "Michael, can I¡ª"


    "No," Michael answered before he could even finish. His eyes filled with coldness.


    Zion felt stumped, but he was greedy. "I haven''t finishe¡ª"


    "I shall not hand you the sword," Michael elaborated, leaving no room for negotiation.


    But Zion was not one to give up. "Can I at least borrow it? Only in Hell."


    If it wasn''t impossible to steal it from Michael, and if he were allowed in Heaven, he would have tried to steal it already. If he wanted it, he would have to wait for it to end up on Earth. It''s a long way to go, and he wanted it now.


    Zion licked his lips and averted his eyes from the tempting weapon.


    "I shan''t," Michael rejected again.


    "C''mon, lend this little brother a hand. I need to fight Trigon, and you know how strong he is," Zion pleaded, making puppy eyes.


    He wasn''t planning on returning the blade either. Remember, he also had the Orange Light.


    "I shall not hand you the blade, Soulbownd," Michael was serious, addressing him by the title. "Moreover, you already possess that cursed spear."


    "Oh," Zion deflated like a balloon.


    Michael was adamant about not giving him the blade. He couldn''t do anything about it and would have to wait for it to fall.


    Should he contact Constantine to get it for him? It might work, but he hated that guy. Constantine brought trouble wherever he went. Zion shook the thought out of his mind. He didn''t want to deal with him; he might accidentally kill the guy because he annoyed him.


    "You''re still sour about it, huh!" Zion sighed and scratched his head in frustration.


    Michael still looked at him coldly, and Zion decided not to push further. He would get the sword anyway. No shiny that he laid eyes upon would escape him. He would hoard it all.


    "Humans and your greed," Michael commented.


    He could clearly see what Zion was planning. Yet, he could not stop him nor intervene. He was bound by causality, bound by loyalty. It was the reason he despised the creature before him¡ªone that was unbound by causality and laws. Someone similar to Lucifer.


    "Well, thanks for the help, I guess," Zion extended a hand.


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    Michael looked at his hand and turned away, opening his wings as he prepared to fly off. He turned his head slightly towards Zion. "Consider the debt paid, Soulbownd."


    "Yeah," Zion answered. "Oh, tell Elaine I said ''hello.''"


    Michael didn''t answer and flew away. He vanished from Zion''s sight instantly. Seeing that Michael was still grumpy, Zion just shrugged and turned to the Omnitrix. The beeping light showed that it had completed its scan.


    Zion smiled and grazed his fingers on the faceplate. The core ejected. "Thanks for the form, Michael." Zion grinned as he slammed down on the Omnitrix.


    A golden light instantly enveloped him. The light didn''t stop with just covering him; it began to expand, filling the entire abyss. The sound of crunching carcasses and the divinity filled Hell.


    Nytemayr, who had just had the shock of his life when he sensed Michael breaking his curse, felt the wave of divinity. His body felt as if it were dipped in hot water; his fur began to burn, and his eyes reddened.


    He moved for the first time in millennia, his body expanding as he broke out of his castle. His bat-like wings stretched through the rubble, his form casting a shadow through the dust. His eyes locked onto the source of the divinity¡ªthe very abyss into which he had thrown so many souls.


    "What is an angel doing here?" That question filled his mind.


    Meanwhile, Michael, who was back in the Silver City, felt the change. His eyes turned toward Hell. He couldn''t help but feel more annoyed. He turned to the tower, waiting for instructions. Yet the voice of God remained silent.


    Michael closed his eyes and turned away from Hell.


    The divinity began to condense, returning to its source. The light condensed, leaving behind Zion''s new God form.


    In his new form, he stood 8 feet tall with copper skin covered in golden runes. His bare upper body possessed an eight-pack, his physique like a Greek sculpture. His face was so perfect it would make any woman lust. His eyes blazed like the sun, and his hair flowed like tendrils of void. Finally, six golden wings extended from his back, spanning 2 meters.


    His form resembled an Archangel, yet he held no divinity. He was filled with the power of faith¡ªa force akin to pure will. Zion gazed at his hands, feeling the power flowing through his body. It was stronger than before, much stronger.


    He reached his hand into the void, retrieving the Spear of Destiny. Destiny hummed with power as it sensed his overflowing energy. She could tell the transformation was nearing the power of a cosmic force; it had surpassed the power of Quintessence.


    Zion turned his head to the fleeing demon. Nytemayr was intelligent enough to blitz after recognizing that his opponent was far too powerful.


    A twisted grin surfaced on Zion''s lips as his wings moved, instantly carrying him before the goat demon. He floated in the air, his six wings like a golden sun against the red sky. Nytemayr came to an immediate halt when he noticed the "Angel" appear before him.


    "Nytemayr, running away is not good," Zion spoke, his voice booming so loudly it pushed Nytemayr back.


    "What do you want?" Nytemayr asked, his voice trembling as he sought a way out of death.


    "Open the gate of Hell for me," Zion instructed.


    Nytemayr didn''t hesitate and used his power to open the gates. Zion gazed through, seeing the multitudes of tormented souls, the circles and rings reaching into the unknown. The nine rings of Hell were visible to him.


    He looked at Nytemayr and moved, crossing the gate.


    Nytemayr sighed as he watched Zion disappear; he felt like he had just escaped death. He didn''t wait and began to close the gate. He didn''t want to see him again. He exhaled in relief as he watched the gate close.


    "Hehe, you think I would forget," Zion''s head popped out just as the gate was closing.


    Nytemayr freaked out and stepped back in fear. Zion smiled mischievously and threw a Holy Grenade filled with white light and his will. Nytemayr''s eyes widened as he saw the small grenade roll toward him. He freaked out and quickly opened his wings, flapping with all his strength.


    The massive demon flew away from the small grenade with all his might.


    Gaining some distance, he turned to see the gate close and the grenade explode. However, the explosion didn''t contain anything holy, just party poppers and a banner that read, ''Got ya!''


    Seeing this, Nytemayr felt utterly indignant, screaming at the top of his lungs. His rage-filled scream echoed through the forbidden zone. The demons and monsters near the abyss scattered as they felt the wrath of the Lord of the Forbidden Zone.


    ---


    On the other side, Zion floated above the rings of Hell, gazing at those below his feet.


    With his new transformation, his vision had gained a new dimension. He could see beyond reality and gaze at the unseen. He could see all of Hell and the gate to Trigon''s realm. It was located at the Sixth Ring.


    Normally, he would have to complete the trials and overcome temptations to traverse the rings. But if he were to do that, he would be spending too much time here. Crossing the circles would also involve dealing with the Demon Lords in charge of them, which entailed a lot of talking and fighting.


    Then there was a shortcut...


    Zion released Destiny from his hands. She began to expand, her size increasing a hundredfold. The black spear, the size of a heavenly pillar, loomed over the circles of Hell, aimed straight at Trigon''s door.


    "Knock, Knock, Mf."


    The spear ignited with multicolored flames, and he brought it down with a force strong enough to destroy a planet. The flames pierced the rings like butter. Hell quaked as the spear tore through it and buried itself into the gate. Next moment the flames surged forth destroying the gates.


    The flames continued untiled the flooded the realm, scorching all demons who came in contact with it. The spear with no obstacle to stop its momentum drive further, breaking through Trigons realm as it plunged further and further until it reached its core.


    Zion floated through the fire, approaching the giant gate to Trigon''s realm. A giant flaming head appeared with six red eyes glaring at him. The fear of billions of lives lay behind those eyes, enough to drive any mortal to madness.


    "Trigon, I have come to bargain,"


    Zion voice boomed across all Hell, a direct challenged to the evil god and all his minions.

 94 - Trigon

    "Trigon, I have come to bargain,"


    The words resounded across Hell and Trigon''s kingdom.


    Trigon raised his head, meeting the eyes of the creature that dare to intrude into his realm.


    He could recognize the creature, the radiant wings that glowed brightly against the crimson sky. The divine power flooding Hell, dominating against all evil. This creature was something that stood against was he was.


    This creature was good.


    Yet the eyes that gazed at him as if he was an insect, the wild grin of a frenzied beast. The very aura that radiated from the creature was similar to his. One that fought only to satisfy its boredom, one that saw destruction as pure joy.


    Its eye held no fear towards him.


    All creatures including those that called themselves his creature feared him. They all feared the Evil.


    In the many universe he conquered, some fought him courageously, some covered in fear begging for mercy. Yet they all feared him, never quenching his thirst. Eons of conquest, of pure destruction, his thirst for evil has never quenched once. All of it became nothing but a chore.


    Yet the creature dare to barge into his Kingdom!


    The very courage to stand against him excited him, his blood pumping. It been many centuries since he had seen that gaze. The very challenge boiled his blood.


    This brought a new sensation to his never ending thirst. His lust for violence flared as this was something he lacked in the recent millennia, an opponent to face. One that would not fear him, one that would not kneel, one that would not surrender.


    One that he would enjoy breaking!


    How he had forgotten this exhilarating feeling of lust?


    The creature grinned, pointing its fingers and asking him to come.


    Such arrogance to provoke him!


    Trigon decided to answer, instantly arriving before the creature. He arrived before the creature that was only his knee height. His gigantic body loomed above him. He enjoyed looking down on his prey.


    The creature tilted its head, smiling. It extended its arms out, summoning back its weapons. The very spear that broke through his realm appeared back at his hand, smaller.


    "What are you?" He questioned, curious.


    "?????," the creature, dubbing itself ?????, answered. {Name him!}


    ...


    Zion gazed at the giant before him,


    However, he could care less about Trigon now. He had already found what he came here for. The little girl chain in darkness. Trigon was trying to erase her good by amplifying her evil.


    But to reach her, he would have to beat the greatest evil in the multiverse. He had already given a beating to destruction, Darkside, while being Magic. It should be easy as he was now physically an arch angel.


    Anyhow, he need to be nice.


    "Hand over Raven or die," He asked nicely.


    Trigon answered Zion with his fists. The punch defied all conservation of law and instantly arrive before him. Zion responded to the punch by slightly lifting his spear, halting the fist dead in it tracks.


    Seeing his punch being stopped in an instant, Trigon grinned in ecstasy.


    He hadn''t met a challenge in years. He raised his other fist and punched out, placing his full force behind that punch. The fist ablaze with hellfire. Zion sense the power behind the punch and took a step behind, leaving a projection and arrived a hundred meters away from Trigon. He watched as the projection turned to ash under the hellfire.


    Trigon turned to him with blazing eyes, shooting two pillars of flames. Zion conjured a fire extinguisher to combat the hellflames. The flames continued for a moment more, yet they could not reach Zion and his fire extinguisher. The Hellfire, which could normally melt souls, fizzled out with a hiss.


    Zion grinned, giving the extinguisher a little shake before tossing it aside.


    Trigon noticing that his attacks have been of no effect, roared. A powerful shockwave rippled across hell. Trigon''s form began to grow, casting a shadow on hell. His six eyes ablaze, flames erupting from the cracks of his skin.


    Zion didn''t just watch his transformation of occur as he pointed his spear at the Devil. At the tip of Destiny, power began to gather at a singularity. The full force of the rage, fear, greed and sorrow, absorbed from the Hell below. The lights surged with black flames of Death as it condensed into a singular point.


    Trigon completed his transformation, his figure now gigantic. Zion was like an ant compared to the titan. Yet he kept the Destiny pointed towards him.


    *ROOOOAAR!*


    He let another roar, now in full form and power.


    "I am Evil-


    "And I am bored," Zion cut Trigon''s momentum with a concentrated blast to his face.


    Rest of the Trigon''s monologue drowned under the fire. Zion was not in the mode to hear a monologue and he is the only one who was worthy to monologue. The beam lasted for a hot moment before Trigon got annoyed and slapped it away.


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    The Devil was someone more powerful than Darkside, his avatar, his reality warping powers were on a different level. Moreover, Zion was in his plane.


    "You dar-"


    *Booom*


    Another energy beam landed straight into his mouth. Bullseye!


    The Devil was pissed as he bit down, destroying the beam. The light dissipated into partials, yet before it could vanish, Zion willed them. The particle condensed back into a steel lock that sealed Trigon''s face, halting him from speaking.


    Which again, Trigon tore with his pure force.


    "Stop playing, and fight me," Trigon''s roar in fury.


    The small creature was annoying him.


    "Okay," Zion answered, his figure blurring.


    In the next moment he arrived before Trigon, his hand holding the spear like a bat. He took the swing before Trigon could react. The spear buried into Trigon''s face, a shock ripple shaking Hell with pure force.


    Trigon shot out like a rocket,


    Zion''s body turned into light, catching up the flying devil in an instant. Zion grinned as he met the eyes of the Blazing fury. He shook his finger at his gaze, chiding the child, increasing the anger in the evil incarnate.


    Trigon furious, punched out, his fist carrying all his power.


    Zion avoided it with ease before catching his hand and pulling him closer. He got close into his personal space before he punched out. Trigon''s body curved as the punch travel though his neigh-indestructible body.


    Trigon, for the first time in eons of his birth felt a force rock his world.


    The punch filled with pure power left an echo in the eternal kingdom for year to come.


    Trigon again whistle through Hell, crossing many levels and crashing straight into his kingdom. His body dug into the ground. The shock from his impact cracked the already damaged foundation of his castle.


    Zion waited,


    Trigon climbed out of the ground, his massive figure emerging with little to no damage to his body. Trigon looked pissed to all hell. His six eyes now blazed even more as his energy grew more and more. He was finally getting serious.


    Yet Zion just snorted, flipping his spear over his shoulder casually.


    "Y''know, I have been preparing for this fight for a while now," Zion spoke his mind. "Yet, I am deeply disappointed."


    Zion slashed his spear forward, a single fluid motion. The blade cut through concept space and time reaching Trigone in an instant. Trigon in his massive form barely had time to react as the edge of the spear cleaved through his cheek, golden light sizzling against his demonic flesh. A deep gash appeared across his face, blood spilling out.


    The devil was surprised, his hand to touch his burning cheeks. Molten blood wet his fingers. In Eons, this was the first time he had bled. His fury only increased more. He roared again, sending a shockwave that send his troops tumbling down.


    Zion saw his antics, changed Destiny''s form. It changed from a black spear to gauntlets that extended to his shoulders. The black gauntlets fused with his fists as the golden ruin on his body integrated into them.


    He was now ready to pummel the devil.


    Zion didn''t wait for Trigon to attack as he plunged down into hell. His wing radiant as his formed turned to nothing but lightning. And his lightning rod was Trigon. Trigon saw the attack coming and crossed his arm, using his reality warp to strengthen the space around him.


    Yet, Zion was like a bullet through glass, his fist connected like a heavy hammer. The punch straight up broke Trigon''s arms, pummeling him into the ground. Zion didn''t let ups as arc of light appeared in the sky as he rose up and punched down.


    His punching speed increased with each moment, accelerating beyond the concept of speed as it bypassed Trigons defense and pushed him further and further into the ground. The demons who watcher their kings being beaten so hard thought that they would be jobless from then.


    Zion, however, was treating Trigon very different from Darkside. Killing Darkside would give them at least a decade before he rebirth. However, Trigon was an embodiment of Evil itself. He was a concept that could not be erased with normal means. Even this beating level of beating would only take a moment for him to recover.


    So, Zion pulled no punches and gave Trigon all his fury. His annoyance at the memories from the Nightmare. He took out all his frustration on Trigone. Trigon tired to use his power to escape but each of Zion''s punches halted his powers. He reality alteration halted, his mana froze, even his aura was being sliced.


    "Thank you, Trigon," Zion commented, his fist still burying Trigon deeper. "Thank you, for being my punching bag."


    He gave a punch that was accelerated to its limit.


    The ground crumbled as they came through the other side of Trigons Kindgom. Trigons face was covered in blood, his flesh sizzling due to divinity. Zion stopped his attack and he summoned destiny into a different form.


    "Spirit Spear Chastiefol, Forth Form: Sunflower,"


    A multicolored sunflower bloomed in Hell, it brightness like the new dawn. Its hundred petals were a beauty that was not found in hell. Its brightness gave new light to Trigon''s kingdom. Yet Trigon was not feeling none of it. The power that was gathered by the flower was enough to blow a hole though creation.


    Trigon summoned all his power, hardening space and freezing time. He used his reality warping to the limit. His dark aura covered him like an armor. He also gathered his powers into his eyes. He would fight against the beam that would try to destroy him.


    Zion didn''t care as he added his divinity into the fray and blasted.


    The beam instantly swallowed Trigon, its power burning every molecule of his body to nothing. Trigon''s agonizing screams filled the hellish kingdom and the nine circles of hell. The rulers of hell looked out from their quarters, their shock visible in their eyes.


    Zion didn''t wait to witness Trigon''s defeat. He vanished, reappearing instantly in the inner chambers of Trigon''s castle. The halls were silent, save for the faint echoes of his steps. The demons that once patrolled were nothing more than smears of blood on the walls¡ªunable to even register his speed before being obliterated.


    He stopped before an ordinary door and kicked it open with a resounding *crash*.


    The room beyond was pitch black, not a single trace of light. Zion stepped inside, his senses locked onto the presence he sought.


    *Grrr¡­*


    A low, guttural growl echoed from the darkness. Suddenly, something lunged at him. Zion''s hand shot up, gripping the creature by the throat mid-air. The demon spawn¡ªits skin a crimson red, four eyes glowing faintly¡ªscratched at his hand, desperate to free itself. After several futile attempts, it ceased struggling, realizing its power was useless against him.


    With a snarl, it commanded the dark energy surrounding the chamber to strike. Tendrils of malevolent force lashed out, but they disintegrated before even touching Zion. He stood there, unmoved, staring into the creature''s eyes, waiting.


    Minutes passed before the demon finally stopped resisting, its ferocity replaced with a cold stare. Zion smirked, seeing it now as nothing more than a defiant child. Compared to Trigon, she was merely a shadow of his menace.


    Zion raised his free hand and flicked her forehead. The simple gesture sent a shock through her entire body, triggering something within. Slowly, her monstrous form receded¡ªsix eyes became two, red skin faded to grey, and her immense strength diminished. Though the darkness within her still lingered, Zion could sense the faint trace of humanity reemerging. He''d deal with that corruption later.


    Time, however, was running short.


    Without hesitation, Zion vanished from the room and appeared outside the castle. Summoning Destiny in her spear form, he activated the Starheart, opening a green portal just as his watch''s timer began to tick down.


    His transformation faltered, returning him to his human form.


    "Did you think you could escape me?" Trigon''s voice boomed from behind.


    Zion spun around, raising Destiny just in time to block a torrent of flames. His concentration broke, and the portal behind him flickered and snapped shut.


    "Destiny, connect to Kara! Kara Zor-El!" he commanded, barely able to keep the inferno at bay.


    But before he could react, the spawn in his grasp struck. A black raven exploded from her chest, diving straight into his soul.


    Zion''s concentration shattered, and the protective shield around him fell. Trigon''s flames surged forward, engulfing him. With the last ounce of his strength, he encased the demon spawn in a cocoon of energy, as Destiny finished closing the portal behind him.


    In the next instant, Zion was thrown out of Hell, hurled through the collapsing green portal.

 95 - Rat G

    "Hell?"


    Kara raised an eyebrow,


    "Quiet literally and figuratively."


    Zion answered, his voice weak.


    Kara wanted to question his answer but she remembered the horrendous creature in a fiery pit, the millions of souls that cried in agony and the eye of the demon filled with lust for violence. She still felt goosebumps as she remembered it.


    She had seen many things since she stepped foot on this planet, from a changeling to God, but demons irked her senses. It was a repulsion and disgust.


    Since she got her answer, She turned to the other bed where the child was sleeping. Her face held a frown, groans of pain escaped her lips. The kid seems to be in pain, but kara didn''t move to check on her. The kid was brought from Hell by Zion, not exactly the trusting.


    "Rach-*Bluh*


    Zion flipped to side, vomiting black substance all on the ground. The Black viscous liquid splatted everywhere. Kara immediately took a step back, covering her nose from the foul smell that emanated. The black substance had the scent of decay and death, it was as if something was ding in the room.


    Kara turned her focus to the origin of the substance, her sight looked beyond the cover.


    The sight made her frown as she could see black spreading through Zion''s veins. The black substance was his decaying blood. The black blood infected every one of his organ, slowly killing them. She could see Zion''s immune system and the nanites try to stop the spreading, only for them to be unable.


    Only Zion''s heart and brain remained unaffected. His whole defense was at full power to protect his vital organs.


    Yet it would fail, soon.


    "You are dying," Kara stated, her voice not changing a color.


    Zion coughed a few time and wiped his mouth clean. "I.. know,"


    He could feel his death approaching, his senses were getting duller and duller. He was already loosing sensation on his fingers and he couldn''t even smell the foul smell that permeated the medbay. Trigon''s final attack was not just hellflames, but mix of evil curses. He shouldn''t have let his guard down with Raven.


    The demons spawn is still demon.


    It was fine, the final attack had aimed for his soul, a SoulBownd''s soul is indestructible. But his body was in a dire state. He need to heal his body ASAP.


    Being a SoulBownd came with many advantage. Knowledge of Millions, Skills of the Masters, Power beyond Imagination, and Etc. Yet unlike others, his weakness came in the form of physical body, reason for the presence of Omnitrix. To cover his weakness.


    He could be considered the opposite to Kara, who was physically indestructible...


    However his worry was that he wouldn''t be physical enough to punch people. He was chill with floating around as a soul and going though wall are all cool but they were not his style. DC already have one Deadman.


    Zion sighed and turned to Kara, "Seems like I won''t be around to ask you out on that Date. It was nice working with you."


    "You have a way to heal yourself," Kara folded her arms, she was not buying Zion''s dying BS.


    Zion was dumb enough to jump into Hell but he was not dumb enough to not have a way to save himself. And if he was dying, his weird watch should do something.


    "Ayya, Can''t you be a little more sympathetic?" Zion voice as he summoned Destiny to his side.


    "I would rather you die than deal with your annoyance," Kara stated true, moving close to Zion. "However, I have been taught to help."


    Zion chuckled as he willed the White light to heal his body.


    The white light turned to small threads that infiltrated his body. The threads divided further and further until they were only thick as an Atom. The threads then began to weave themselves into his organs. His black organs slowly turned white as white light revived them. Soon his insides were glowing white as all his organs were revived with white light. The spreading curse could do nothing against his new empowered organs.


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    His heart pumped with strength as it looked at his Liver, "Hey, Liv. Are you cleaning the curse from his blood."


    Liver replied. "I am trying, but they keep multiplying."


    "Oh yeah," Heart looked a bit dismayed.


    "Man, I am trying to filter his dead blood but its chocking me," Kids replied.


    "I am about to burst," Blader shouted, "Kid stop sending all your crap!"


    "Okay, okay," Kid answered and stopped.


    "Good, if you didn''t he would have wet himself before the girl," New voice added.


    "Brain, did you figure out a way?" Heart asked.


    "I do," Brain answered.


    Okay, lets stop goofing around!


    "Sorry, I am still too young to die," Zion replied as he pulled himself up from the bed.


    He hoped down from the bed, nearly stumbling and falling face first. However, Kara moved to support him. She caught Zion by his collar and kept him from falling.


    "Thank you," Zion said as he steadied himself. "Can you let go of my collar?"


    Kara nodded, "Now, which way to go?"


    "To the elevator," Zion answer,


    Kara didn''t wait and carried Zion toward the Elevator, still carrying him by his collar. Zion hung on her hand like a kitten caught by his mother. They crossed the bed Raven was sleeping on, the reading on her vitals pulsing irregularly.


    Zion knew that she would be fine once he deal with a little raven.


    Kara carried Zion into the Elevator and pushed him to the controls. Zion place his palm on the controls. First his fingerprints were scanned than his iris. The system confirmed his authorization, allowing some top secret stuff.


    "Take me to Jerry," Zion said to the controls.


    ["Authorization code!"]


    "Lethal Option!" Zion answered.


    The screen went green before the elevator suddenly plummeted. The speed of descend was akin to an orbital drop, yet Kara stuck to the floor with her TK. However, Zion was flailing like a kite on her arms.


    After descending for minutes, the elevator came to a sudden halt. The hand would have made anyone feel like their intestines were pooped out, but Zion''s enhanced body and Kara''s Kryptonian physic were able to handle it.


    The doors opened with a slight buzz of air, revealing a lengthy corridor with many glass windows. Unlike the castle, the walls here were deep blue like the oceans with many childish scribbles on the wall.


    Kara carried Zion by the collar as she explored the corridor.


    She turned her gaze into the first room, the glass window revealing a disk that just floated about at the center. The second room had green goo that kept bouncing off at high speed. Third one had a green exoskeleton armour. Forth, a glowing red great sword inscribed with ruins. Fifth, Sixth and all that followed held a single item. They didn''t seem to be for show but rather sealed.


    Kara couldn''t any of them but she could tell that they were Zion''s creations.


    With that she arrived at the end of the corridor. Zion knocked on the door three times and waited without a word. The door opened a moment later, allowing them entry. Kara step forwards without question.


    Inside the room was... something unexpected.


    The room was filled with small tunnels extending all around the room, chew toys thrown around, turning wheels and balls. At the corner were treat dispenser. The squeaking sound soon entered soon entered her ears, alerting her of the occupants of the room.


    Mice, of different color, looked out from their hole and gazed at her. Their eyes seemed intelligent as they seem to analyze something as they looked at her. Kara was clearly unnerved by the tiny creature that looked at her without fear.


    "Hey, guys," Zion waved his hands.


    The mice began to squeak all round before they seem to calmed down. Soon, one small mouse walked forwards and stood on its two legs. Zion looked at the mouse and pulled out a small treat from his pocket and offered it to the mice.


    "Buddy, where is Jerry?" Zion asked the question, only after the mouse accepted the treat.


    The mouse squeaked before puling the treat away. The other mice also vanished with the mouse that was carried the treat.


    Kara watching all these was profoundly unnerved and turned to Zion for answers. "What did you do?"


    Zion shrugged, "I didn''t do anything."


    "Really?" Kara was infuriated. "The rats were intelligent and you are telling me that you got no hand in it. And what was that offering?"


    Zion scratched his cheeks, thinking how to answer. "Well, I might have hand in the growth of their intelligence, but I wasn''t the one."


    "Because, it was I, who gave them intelligence," Another voice answered.


    Kara who was already on alert snapped to the voice, yet she could not have expected what she was to see. A flying mouse the size of her palm, its fur glowing blue. One its chest was a black tattoo of hydrogen atom. That rat was floating on the air as it gazed at her and Zion.


    Kara''s sense were very attuned as she could sense that this rat was not to be trifled with.


    "Jerry, my guy," Zion cheered. "How you been doing?"


    "I am fine," Jerry answered politely, "Yet I could not ask you the same."


    Zion chuckled, "Yeah, I know right!"


    Jerry nodded, "What would you like me to do?"


    "You know what," Zion answer in cryptic.


    Then Zion turned to dust and the Omnitrix fell to the ground with a Cling.


    Kara turned to her hand which was still in the holding position but Zion was now dust on the air. She could see his atoms floating about. His body was turned to dust faster than she could ever react and Zion was gone.


    Kara strained her neck towards Jerry. The mouse just floated in air without any kind of expression. Kara, however, decided not to react. From the conversation, Zion knew this would happen to him.


    "What did you do?" She questioned.


    "His body was already far gone," Jerry answered monotonously.


    Kara then saw Zion appear again, his body fully reconstructing atom by atom. The process was instantaneous. But Zion only looked human from the outside, his insides were different.


    "He would survive," Jerry spoke.


    Zions brain was evolved, his neurons were firing in an accelerated phase. They were evolving as they received more data. His bone and muscles were similar to hers, dense and compact. He now had two hears, his lungs were larger and more efficient in processing oxygen. His RBC was bigger and thicker while WHC were like aliens skimming through space.


    Zion''s body was no longer human, he has evolved.


    He then floated down to the floor and laid unmoving. Kara could see his heart beating and his brains firing. Confirming his changes, she turned to the floating rat.


    "What are you?" She questioned, she was guarded against everything Zion created.


    "I am Jerry Manhattan," He answered.

 96 - Uncaged

    A little Raven,


    Born of Evil and Hope,


    An amalgamation birthed from an unholy ritual,


    Grown in Light to seal her Darkness.


    A bird with her wings clipped.


    That was what she was¡ªan abomination. People feared her, even when they acted kindly. She sensed their discomfort, their wariness. Their emotions hidden behind their stoic faces.


    Yet she knew none of the why, only that she was to control her emotions, suppress them, bury them deep. But never had she been taught their origins, never allowed to understand herself. Controlled and chained, that was all she had ever known.


    Until the day a man removed her from her chamber and brought her to the Door of Azarath.


    When the doors opened, they revealed a sight that froze her in place: her father, an evil beyond words. The man beside her¡ªa kind soul, perhaps¡ªdied the instant his gaze fell upon her father''s form. And Raven? She was swept away, taken to her father''s hellish kingdom. A place far darker and more twisted than her worst imaginings. For the first time, she understood the true evil she had been taught to confine.


    The Black Raven.


    Born from her mind, empowered by her father''s dark magic, an entity she could only call Pure evil. She was again confined, in her own body. Her father ensured she could never resist it. He wanted no rival parasite within his precious daughter.


    The Black Raven was a feral beast, a force of pure destruction. All it sought was ruin.


    However, in a moment of rare defiance, Raven felt her sister¡ªa part of her very soul¡ªleave her body. She used her own essence to fight the invading creature. And with her sister gone, Raven reclaimed control. She could breathe again, feel the warmth on her skin, the touch of her own fingers.


    She was free.


    But fear gripped her as her eyes remained shut. The Black Raven was gone, but at what cost?


    She heard voices, dull and distant. The oppressive force that bound her magic remained, like a cage she could never escape.


    "Don''t worry, child," a soft, kind voice spoke, followed by the gentle caress of a hand across her face. "You are safe here."


    "She''s stable and her vitals are normal," a second voice, gruff and cold, responded. "She could wake up any moment."


    "Maybe she needs to know that she''s safe," the kind voice suggested again.


    "Well, I doubt anyone could break in here," the gruff voice replied, now with a hint of amusement and annoyance. "Not even Superman could tear his way in."


    "Honey, has Zion been annoying you again?" The soft voice moved further, the warmth of the woman''s touch still lingering on Raven''s skin.


    "Haaa... it''s nothing."


    A light chuckle followed. "Should I ask him to stop?"


    "No need. I do owe him," the man answered. "But I didn''t get a PhD in cryogenics to make multiflavored flavored ice cream."


    "And yet, I quite enjoy your blueberry-flavored cones," the soft voice teased.


    Silence stretched between the couple before the sound of their footsteps leaving the room echoed faintly.


    Raven''s fingers twitched as the warmth from the stranger''s touch faded. She could still hear the faint echoes of their conversation, but her mind felt clouded, weighed down by memories of Trigon, her father, and the oppressive force that halted her magic.


    The force surrounding her was unlike anything she had experienced before. It wasn''t the crushing pressure of demonic magic or her father''s relentless grip. This was different¡ªan emptiness where her own power refused to move, as if her abilities were caught in an invisible snare.


    Her heart raced. She couldn''t stay here, not trapped again. But the voices had been kind. The warmth of the woman''s touch, stilled her racing thoughts. Maybe... she was safe.


    Raven exhaled softly, her breath shaky as she willed her body to move. Her limbs felt heavy, but slowly, she pushed herself upright. Her head throbbed with the memories of Azarath, her father, her sisters, and hell, still fresh in her mind. Slowly, she opened her eyes.


    The room around her was bright, not a shade of darkness visible. At first glance, it resembled a medical facility, though it felt far warmer and more natural than the sterile, mechanical environments one would expect. The walls shimmered with a golden, translucent material¡ªlike polished sunstone¡ªand pulsed with an energy she couldn''t quite identify. But one thing was clear: her magic would not respond here. It was utterly suppressed.


    She swung her legs over the edge of the bed, her bare feet touching the cool floor. The sensation grounded her. She was alive, free¡ªfor now.


    Her fingers brushed against the dark cloak at the foot of the bed. It felt familiar, comforting. She draped it over her shoulders, drawing strength from its weight, even though her body felt fragile after the ordeal.


    Raven took a cautious step forward. The soft hum of distant machinery reached her ears. The more she observed her surroundings, the stranger the room appeared. The walls seemed to radiate warmth, as if emitting sunlight. There was a faint golden glow in the air itself. The material, if her instincts were correct¡ªpulsed with eerie energy that halted her Magic.


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    "Magic doesn''t work here," she reminded herself, feeling the absence gnaw at her. For now, that was a mystery to be solved later.


    She took another step, her movements deliberate and slow. As she passed through the room, she noticed the odd combination of advanced technology and nature: holographic monitors displaying her vitals, a overgrown vein that crawled through, glowing crystals filled with neon light.


    Raven took cautious steps, the cold seeping into her body. The air warmth, incomparable to the fiery hell she called home. Pausing in front of a mirror, she barely recognized her reflection. Her clear eyes clear, bright violet. Her skin pale yet vibrant and full of life.


    Her body felt weak, yet from the image her body was at top condition. She knew not the magic that was cast but all the scars on her body had vanished. Yet it could not hide the toll the Black Raven had taken on her mind and soul.


    The Black Raven... Her heart ached as she remembered the moment her sister lunged at the intruder to tear his soul. She had no idea what had happened, but her sister had vanish. She was free now, but what next? She had no desire to dwell on it any longer. There was no turning back.


    Raven turned toward the door, a plane white door with a slit for grip. As her hand brushed the cool surface, the door slid open silently, revealing a long hallway.


    The structure beyond was a strange place, otherworldly in its architecture, with sharp crystalline surfaces and a natural, organic flow. The air was warm, and yet, a part of her remained on edge. Despite the beauty, the calm, it still felt like another prison.


    A different kind of cage.


    As she stepped into the hall, the distant clanking of footsteps caught her attention. Instinctively, she pulled her cloak tighter and moved down the corridor, careful with each step. She knew none of who had built this¡ªthis castle of Crystal.


    "Are your preparations going well?"


    "Yes, the exploration would be hard this time."


    The voices she had heard earlier. She quickly leaned against the cold wall and looked further in. A man with white hair, his skin a tinge of blue was walking with a woman with blond hair and fair skin. From the way they held each other, and their intertwining emotion, they were a couple.


    She slowly followed them, she bare feet making little to no noise.


    But soon they reached the entrance to a vast atrium.


    The atrium opened up before her, vast and bathed in natural light. The ceiling towered above with an expansive view of the sky, sunlight filtering through the translucent stone. The floor was covered with green and exotic plants. Nature grew unkempt and free. Yet they create a beautiful order.


    "I told you," Nora was saying with a soft laugh, "This place feels like a dream."


    Victor''s cold expression softened as he looked at her. "Strange... but it has its uses," he admitted.


    Raven remained hidden in the shadows, uncertain whether to approach. But an unlikely person sensed her presence.


    "You''re awake," A soft yet seductive voice spoke from behind her.


    Raven yelped, never expected to be sneaked up. She turned to the person who spoke, a woman with crimson hair adorn with paper flowers crown, her skin green, hers black with green iris. The woman felt like a dangerous flower born in a poisonous forest.


    "Oh, is this the little kid Zion kidnapped!" An eccentric voice jumped from behind the green lady.


    Her hair a faded red and blue tired in a twin tail, Her skin grey like hers yet her eyes held chaos. Unlike hers, this one was mildly incontinence. Yet she seems warm and kind, but still nuts.


    "Harley, don''t freak the kid," The green lady pulled back her friend.


    "You should rest more," Nora approached from behind, her voice warm. "You''ve been through a lot."


    Raven turned to her, her guard up as she was surrounded on all fronts. With her magic out of commission, she had no way of escape.


    "Nora!" The eccentric woman jumped at the kind lady.


    Nora returned her happy hug. Though Victor''s gaze remained cautious.


    The green lady walked past her and greeted the warm lady called Nora. Examining their conversation, and their guardless emotions. Raven stepped forward, her emotions tightly controlled.


    And asked the question, "Where am I?"


    Nora tilted her head slightly. "You''re in Zion''s castle."


    "Yeah, a big white castle that should definitely be in black," The eccentric woman called, Harley answered.


    The green woman continued. "Its a fortress made to withstand all invasion. I was told that it suppresses magic, which I assume you''ve already noticed."


    Raven''s eyes flickered with understanding. "And Zion? Where is he? Who is he?"


    Victor crossed his arms, leaning against a sunstone pillar. "Not here at the moment."


    "He is the King of the Earth," Harley acted with exaggeration.


    "He''ll return soon. For now, focus on regaining your strength would be the best." Nora suggested


    Raven studied them carefully, unsure whether to trust them. Nora''s kindness was evident, but Victor... His cold demeanor was a reminder of the dangers that still lurked. The green lady seem to blend with the plants, like she was part of them. The last one, her emotions were everywhere.


    "What happens when Zion returns?" she asked, her voice tinged with steel. She hated feeling vulnerable, at the mercy of someone else.


    Nora stepped forward, her eyes gentle but serious. "Zion doesn''t intend to keep you here as a prisoner. He believes in happy ending. He saved you from your father, but the choice of what to do next is yours."


    A happy ending? Could she really have something like that? After everything¡ªher father, the Black Raven¡ªwas redemption even possible for someone like her?


    "I don''t need saving," Raven said sharply, her words harsher than she intended.


    Victor''s icy gaze hardened shifting to his wife and her friends. "We all need saving from something."


    Raven''s eyes darted between them. This place might not be a cage, but this Zion had plans for her¡ªplans she didn''t yet understand.


    "You''re free to leave whenever you choose," Nora said, her voice gentle. "But know this: whatever you''re running from, it won''t find you here. This place is shielded, from magic and from any force that seeks to harm those within.


    Moreover, Zion would stand front to face the danger."


    Raven absorbed her words in silence. A sanctuary, free from her father''s reach, free from the Black Raven. The idea was tempting. But she had learned long ago that true safety was an illusion.


    And yet... Zion had built this place as a fortress, and had rescued her from her father''s hands. That made him different from anyone else she had encountered.


    "I''ll stay," she said softly. "For now."


    Nora smiled warmly. "There''s no rush. Take the time you need."


    "You can stay here as long as you want," Poison eyes added before vanishing into the nature.


    Victor nodded curtly before turning away, leaving the room. "You know where to find us if you need anything."


    "If you want to cause trouble and want to make it double, call auntie Harley!" Harley shouted before running away somewhere.


    "Don''t worry, nothing will harm you here," Nora added before leaving her alone to contemplate.


    Alone again, Raven sat on a natural tree bench, the golden-hued space around her quiet. Her magic might be gone, but so was the connection she had with her father, the Black Raven.


    For the first time in years, she was free from the war within herself. The silence was unnerving, but also peaceful.


    As she stared up at the sky through the atrium''s ceiling, Raven allowed herself to wonder about her future. What she did with it was now up to her. And for the first time in what felt like a lifetime,


    Raven felt a flicker of hope.


    "Therefore, as God''s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."


    Colossians 3:12-13

 97 - High

    "I got to say, I am more than a bit disappointed,"


    A mountain of bodies, trails of blood like river. Melody born from moans and groans of agony. Shattered weapons, smoke dust on the air, echoes of explosion, severed limbs.


    Scars of battle sang tales, the scene depicting an intense fight.


    Yet the man standing atop it all stood with his hand in his pocket, his other lifting a broken ninja.


    His gold and black wolf mask hiding his features. Yet his void black hair, trimmed to the side, waved like flames. The pure black suit outlined with gold on its edges and cuffs. his suit unblemished amid the chaos. His black gloves keeping him from touching dirt.


    His whole outfit make him blend with the darkness, yet unlike batman, you could see his shadowing in the dark.


    "I expected a fight, a good fight," His voice disappointed.


    He threw the ninja through the walls down the blizzardious mountain range. The snow raged with fury, yet it seemed calm compared to the man standing before them. His icy gaze swept the are before landing on the few people left standing.


    His air changed as he moved lifted his hands and gestured him to them, "Come at me."


    His voice felt with lust for violence made them defensive. The have thrown armies of well trained assassins and he was still standing without a wound.


    "Ow," He growned like a child.


    His figure vanished, now meeting eyes to eye with the oldest human on the are. The man targeted reacted in pure instincts hone from decades of experience. Yet his instinct couldn''t save him as the man stopped his blade from being drawn.


    For all he knew, Ra''s Al Ghul for the first time felt death''s grasp. And it was now stareing straight at him.


    "Boo,"


    A hand grabbed his face, his vision shifting in a moment as his whole body slammed into the ground. He felt his world rock as the force coursed through his body. His skull was cracked with the wooden floor, sending an electric shock through his spine.


    "Lazarus pit ain''t going to save ya,"


    His voice rung with childish glee as he stood up, his heel on the Assassin''s leaders face. But before he could squash the cockroach under his feet, multiple chains wrapped around him. The chains twisted around his body before tightening. They tugged at his body, trying to pull him away from their leader.


    Yet his figure remained steady, his feet still on the roaches face.


    "Really?" His voice mocking.


    He flexed his muscles, shattering the chains with pure strength. His figure than vanished, creating a creature on the ground he stood. Well, as for Ra''s Al Ghul, he was having tea with his grandparents.


    His figure blitzed before Talia, his fist inches away from her face.


    However, Talia pulled back as many other assassins jumped to keep him down. The Wolf shifted in the air as he slapped the one closest to him and poked the eyes of the next. He then kicked the third in the throat and fooled by kicked to the side. He attacked all their weak spots before his feet could land on the ground.


    While he landed back on the ground, Talia had pulled back into the corridor.


    "I got you," She smiled, her finger already pressed against the detonator.


    *BOOM*


    The explosion shook the whole mountain while blowing a hole through the roof. The smoke filled the whole chamber. Yet Talia stood guarded. She had no idea who was their aggressor, yet they had thrown everything they had at him.


    He had literally dropped into their headquarters from the sky and started beating all the guards that tried to stop him. From enhanced humans to Manbats, nothing even close to him. The chains was the first was time he got caught.


    "Disappointment above disappointment!" His demonic voice ran through the smoke.


    The next moment, the wind shifted into a ragefilled tornado, clearing the smoke away. An amid the crumbling structure, he stood on air without a crisp on his suit. On his hand was Ra''s Al Ghul, the man was burnt toast. As for the others, who cares.


    "You even blew up your father," His voice faked a bit of sadness.


    Talia''s gaze hardened, she hadn''t expected him to survive the explosion. He hands reached for her weapons, her final defense. yet before she could draw then a hand griped her face and slammed her into the wall.


    "Be nice," His voice enthusiastic, "Where is David Cain, A.K.A Oprhan?"


    His eyes stared into her, her confusion visible. He removed his hand from her face, but slammed her body back into the wall with a punch to the chest. Talia felt heard her ribs crack and her heart give out for a moment. She blacked out only for a moment before the second shock woke her up.


    Her body was now hanging on ting rope. If she were to not get into the Lazarus pit, she would die. But She could not escape his grasp without answering his question. Talia groaned with blood trickling down her face. Her body was on full adrenaline to keep the pain of multiple broken bones at bay.


    Talia could take the pain, she was trained for it. But the man before her, this monster, she got to answer him.


    "He...ha..ha..He left..ha..he is not here," Talia pushed the words out of her mouth.


    "Not her?" The man questioned.


    "He..hu..left the league of assassins a while ago," Talia managed to answer in a single breath.


    "Oh...OHHH~" The man gasped, releasing her. "Why didn''t you say so?" He questioned in a wronged tone.


    Talia could only glare in response.


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    "Hehe... I am cho chorry," He answered in a childish tone, knocking on his head. "But hey! It wasn''t my mistake, you guys kept throwing yourselves at me. I know I am handsome and all but it was too much."


    Talia continued to glare but soon decided to stop even thinking of provoking the man before her. She was intelligent enough to know who was before her.


    He shrugged, and vanished leaving his final words hanging in the air.


    "Okay, Byeee~"


    .


    .


    .


    A cold, moonlit night enveloped the dark alleyway, the dim glow of a single streetlamp casting long, jagged shadows against the brick walls. The chill seeped within thier


    The coldness draped around her form like a cape. She crouched low, her figure clocked in black unseen by the world around her. The shadows were her home, her sanctuary. She had spent years learning to blend with the shadows, to live in it.


    She had spent year honing to observe action, read the world through motion. From every twitch, every shift in breath or muscle. Words were a foreign language to her, but action¡ªaction was her native tongue.


    Her father, David Cain, had been clear to. Tonight was her final test.


    Across the alley, a man dressed in white coat smoking a cigar with a glass of whiskey in his hands. He had no idea what awaited him as he enjoyed his evening. She watched as he moved cheered with his friend before standing up with his guards.


    Her father''s voice echoed in her head, cold and emotionless. ''You must kill him, Cassandra. This is what you were born to do. This is your purpose.''


    Her heartbeat quickened as she watched him leave the restaurant and wait for his ride. It was time.


    She leapt from the shadows with the grace of a cat, landing silently behind him. Before he could turn, her small hands found his throat, moving with an instinct so deeply ingrained it felt like breathing. A sharp twist. A crack. His body slumped to the ground.


    Cassandra stepped back, watching him fall, her breath steady but her mind racing. Her mind raised as the cold wind blew, chilling her exposed hands. She stared at the man''s lifeless form.


    It was done. Her father had trained her for this moment. She had passed the test.


    But something was wrong,


    Her eyes, once hard and cold, flickered as she gazed at the man''s face. His eyes¡ªwide, staring into nothing¡ªhaunted her. His body lay still, like a discarded puppet whose strings had been cut. And she had cut them. She had ended him.


    A tremor ran through her.


    For the first time, she didn''t feel pride in her skill. She didn''t feel the satisfaction of completing her mission. Instead, a strange, new feeling crawled into her chest. A weight pressed down on her, tightening around her throat, making it harder to breathe.


    ''Why?''


    The question, unspoken and unfamiliar, reverberated in her mind. She had never questioned the lessons her father taught her. Never questioned her purpose as a weapon. But now, looking at the man''s body, she could feel the weight of his death¡ªher action¡ªhanging on her like a chain.


    Her breath came faster, uneven now. The world around her blurred, and for the first time, Cassandra felt truly alone. Not the comforting solitude she had known in the shadows. No, this was different. It was hollow. A pit had opened inside her, swallowing the certainty she once had.


    She knelt beside the man, her hand trembling as it reached out to his face, brushing against the cold skin. His eyes still stared into nothing. He had no more breath, no more life. Because of her.


    The image of his face burned into her memory.


    She stumbled back, her hands gripping her head. The guilt hit her like a wave, crashing into her chest, suffocating her. She wanted to scream, to tear herself away from this moment. She had been taught to be a weapon, to be the perfect assassin. But no one had ever taught her how to handle this.


    What was this?


    ''Why does it feel like this?''


    The sound of footsteps echoed from behind her, heavy and deliberate. She didn''t need to turn to know who it was. David Cain stepped into the light, his gaze cold and calculating, his eyes assessing her every movement.


    "You are distract-"


    He didn''t get to finish his words, as a foot landed straight on his head.


    "Yello, yello. How you doing this great night?" The voice filled with enthusiasm, stumped on the cold night. His voice cutting the cold with sheer joy in his voice.


    Her face turned, her head clearing as she observed her surrounding. Her father now under someones feet. A man clad in demon mask looked straight at her. The bodyguards bleeding on the ground.


    "Halo, kiddo, I have been searching for you for days now," The wolf man muttered, extending his hands towards her.


    She reacted on instinct, to protect her self. She drew her dagger, clucthing his hands as she moved in to attack. Her blade reached his throat in an instant.


    She realize her actions a bit too late as her blade already too far to draw back. She was about to take another life while she had yet to digest her first kill. But her worried for unfounded as the blade sparked as it met the fabric.


    "Owww~" The man faked as grown as he clutched his unharmed throat, staggering unsteadily. But he stopped his act and ruffled her shocked head. "That was funny kid."


    Cassandra finally snapped out of shock and kicked him in the stomach as she jumped back. But the wolfman, Zion, stood still taking her kick without much care. He just dusted his suit and stood still.


    Cassandra kept her gaze at him as she checked her standing father. His nose was broken and blood covered his mouth. He was unsteady, yet he stood ready to fight with his gun out.


    "Oh, my guy Cain," The man called with mockery.


    Cain responded by unloading the whole mag. Yet Zion easily weaved though the bullets and arrived before Cain, his hand stretched out. He caught Cain by the face and plunged a 200 pound adult into the wall.


    Cassandra drew behind him, her sword in hand. She was ready to defend her father, even if its to kill. But before she could cut, the man tuned swiftly and caught her blade.


    "I know you understand me, kid," The man spoke, his eyes staring into hers. "Feeling guilty an all, why don''t you come with me?"


    His request halting her emotions. yet she could only bare her broken fangs.


    "Okay," Zion muttered, his hand pushing Cain further into the wall.


    He let go of Cain and released the blade from his hand. Cassandra watched with guarded gaze as the man took a step back and folded on of his arm back and gestured her to come at him. Cassandra could only grip her blade tight as she got ready to attack.


    Zion could only smile under his mask. A child was still a Child.


    Cassandra didn''t waste more time as she rushed at him, swing her sword at him. Which her avoided by slightly bending his back. But she wasn''t giving up as her pushed forward, her sword play at its best to kill the man before her.


    Yet, even as she perceived his moment before he acted, she was still slower.


    After allowing her to take a few more swings, Zion stepped forward. Catching her off guard, Zions had ruffled her hair, before he side stepped to avoid another attack. His momentum shifted as he began to tease her in-between attacks, using the opening to flick her head, pull her cheeks and pinch her small nose.


    "Awe, cutie pootie, you can''t hit me with your snail speed," Zion provoked.


    Cassandra couldn''t take anymore as she pulled her kunaies and threw it at him. She pushed forwards, ready to use the time of his evasion to attack him. Yet again to her surprise, he caught them mid air and threw them at Cain.


    Zion at the end tilted his head slightly avoiding. The frustration in Cassandra continued to grow as Zion continued to tease her. Yet at the same time, something else was being swallowed by that frustration. Her guilt of death. It would never vanish but she had forgotten about in this moment to protect her father.


    Her hands reached for her weapons with ease, her guilt forgotten as her mind focused only in killing the target before her. Her swings became calculated, her attacks missed with feint and traps, waiting for her prey to take a bite.


    She was truly going for the kill.


    Yet her blades could not reach, her traps failed and her faints were seen through. Each of her moments were avoided with ease as if he was reading her. She could read his every moment to only to be slower.


    Her body tired and her mind raced to catch up with the target before her, her sword closing inch by inch. She could feel her technique connect, her skill grow as she finally faces an opponent who wouldn''t be defeated by her in a moment.


    Moreover, his provoking gestures,


    She swing, her blade cutting through the smoke screen. Her blade finally reached her target. The gap between his turtle neck and mask.


    However to her dismay, his hands reached forward at a speed she couldn''t react. Her blade was halted and a rough pain came from her nose.


    "You are good," He complimented with her nose clutched between his fingers. "Be my disciple."


    But before she could answer, the space itself broke and swallowed them both.


    "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God''s wrath, for it is written: ''It is mine to avenge; I will repay,'' says the Lord."


    Romans 12:19

 98 - Shadow and Silence

    "Argh...HH,"


    Muffle grunts escaped as Cassandra woke up from her slumber. The weight of the cold night, guilt and a loosing battle clung to her mind heavy. The events of the night had shaken her more than she would like to admit.


    As the pain dispersed, the world around her cleared.


    Her eyes snapped opened as her thoughts caught with her instincts. She sat up in a hurry, her hand reaching for her sword. Yet the her hand found nothing. She clearly startle, scanned her surrounding.


    A normal room, a bed, study table, empty bookshelf and a wardrobe. The room was unnaturally mundane. However, the wall glowed with warmth. The light made her feel as if waking to the morning sun.


    There were no windows.


    She tense nerves however could not relax. She threw the thick blanket away and jumped to her feet. Her eyes found her sword leaning next to the table. Her dress was unchanged. She tied her sword to her hip and scanned the room for another of her items.


    Yet it was only her sword that was present. All her arsenal had vanished.


    She touched her nose and cheeks, the soreness spoke of truth. She was in the enemies cave. She need find a way out. She hurried to the door, it clicked open. What met her was an empty corridor.


    The air in the corridor was cold, the blue light a bit ominous. She felt like the walls were alive, glowing faintly with neon blue. They offered no comfort.


    Her instincts told her to be alert, to keep moving and ready for all situations. She didn''t know where nor why she was? But the man who took her had reasons. She canned both ways, leading somewhere unknown.


    She took right,


    Her steps light as she moved like a shadow in the shadowless corridor. The familiar weight of her blade assured her, her hands constantly hovering above her hilt. Despite her years of training, her breathing lost rhythm.


    The lingering guilt creep its head up amidst the silence. Yet what followed was the annoying teasing of that wolf man. Her hand left her hilt to touch her sore nose. She hated it. Even her father had never been able to play with her like that.


    Following the corridor, she soon arrived at the edge of an open space.


    The atrium open up before her, vast and natured, basking clear moonless sky. The ceiling towered above with an expansive view of the sky, starlight filtering through the translucent stone. The floor was covered with green and exotic plants. Nature grew unkempt and free. Floral scent filled the space, making one feel intoxicated.


    She halted, her sharp eyes scanning the room of any incongruities.


    Ans that''s when she saw,


    A figure sat silently among the shadows, cloak in darkness. The shadows seem to blend towards her, wrapping her in their embrace, shielding her from light. Her hood pulled lower to hid her face, yet Cassandra could made out the round shape of her features. Her pale hands resting on a book.


    The girl was one with darkness, if not of the red glint of the gem she wore, Cassandra wold have easily overlooked.


    Cassandra''s body tensed, this girl was no ordinary. Her presence exuded power, a deep and unsettling force that resonated in the air. The feeling was twistedly familiar. Dangerous. Without thinking, Cassandra''s hand jumped to her blade, the cold steel offering her sense of control. Her muscles coiled, ready to strike if necessary, her eyes locked with the girl across the room.


    However, the girl did not move. She sat silently, her gaze hidden beneath the shadow of her hood. Her presence blending with darkness. Yet, Cassandra could feel the gaze locked on her. There was no motion of aggression in her posture, only a calm stillness that unnerved Cassandra even more.


    The tension continued as the two stayed silent, filled with unspoken intent. The world seem to shrink, the edge of the atrium fading away, their attention solely focused on one another.


    Then without warning, the girl stood up, her moment rigid. Cassandra tensed, her heart racking as the grip on her blade tightened.


    The girl approached, stopping a few feet from her. The tension between them thickened. For a heartbeat, neither moved, the silence of the atrium pressing on all sides. The girl acted slowly, her hand moving to remove the hood and reveal her face.


    Dark hair cascading her grey face, Her bright violet eyes stared into hers. Her eyes filled burden resonated with hers. The girl took another step, her eyes never leaving Cassandra''s. There was no fear in her gaze, nor a challenge.


    It wasn''t an attack, It was a gesture. A gesture of trust. She was... like her.


    A silent conversation, one Cassandra could understand. For the first time, the silence of their conversation spoke louder than any words could. The girl was speaking to her without a word uttered, communicating something deeper.


    Caution.


    Wariness.


    Pain, perhaps. And something else, something familiar.


    Guilt.


    Her breath caught in her throat as the realization settle in. This girl knew. She understood what it was like to carry the burden of life taken, to fight against something darker within herself.


    If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    The guilt, doubt and unanswered questions gnawing at her soul¡ªit all reflected in the girls bright eyes.


    The girl stood mere steps away, her gaze steady as she spoke her silence. For a moment, Cassandra wondered if she would say something. But instead, the girl reached out, her finger moving slowly, cautiously, as if testing the boundaries of trust.


    Cassandra flinched at the movement, her body reacting before her mind could stop it. Her hand shot up, gripping the hilt of her blade. Raven froze, her hand suspended in the air between them, her violet eyes widening ever so slightly at the sudden movement.


    For a tense moment, neither of them moved. The silence stretched thin, teetering on the edge of violence. But then, slowly, Raven withdrew her hand, letting it fall back to her side. Her eyes softened, and she stepped back, offering Cassandra the space she needed.


    The tension eased, but it didn''t disappear entirely. Cassandra''s heartbeat slowly returned to normal as she loosened her grip on her weapon. She hadn''t meant to react that way, but the instinct to defend herself was too deeply ingrained.


    Still, the girl hadn''t pressed her, hadn''t provoked a fight. She had simply... stopped.


    Cassandra took a breath, her eyes still locked on hers. The quiet between them was thick with understanding now, a bond forged not through words but through the shared weight of their burdens.


    Without a sound, the girl turned and walked toward the center of the atrium again. She didn''t look back, but she didn''t need to.


    Cassandra watched her go, the cold air of the castle wrapping around her once more. She let her hand fall away from her blade, the tension in her shoulders finally releasing. The silent conversation had ended, but something had shifted inside her.


    ...


    "Nion, kidnapping children is bad," Harley chided, resting her head comically on Nion''s as they peeked into the atrium, their heads stacked like a totem pole.


    Nion scrunched his face in disgust. "Woman, you have no ground to chide me."


    "But why are we spying on children?" Ivy questioned, her head resting on Nora''s.


    "To make sure that Cassandra doesn''t harm Rachel," Nion replied, his gaze focused on the two girls in the atrium.


    "I could''ve done it without looking like idiots," Ivy remarked dryly.


    "It wasn''t my idea," Nion shrugged.


    "Look, they''re staring into each other''s souls," Nora whispered with awe, her head still perched on Harley''s. "I hope they become friends."


    "Nah, I bet the new kid is going to beat the old one for dominance," Harley grinned wildly.


    Nion yanked her ponytail. "Rachel can sense emotions, and Cassandra can read people through their actions. I''m sure they understand each other in silence better than through words."


    Harley bit the top of his head. "But kidnapping kids is still bad, Nion. What if their parents are worried?"


    "Trigon would be furious now that he''s lost his connection with Rachel, and the League of Assassins is probably hunting David Cain," Nion''s eyes gleamed red for a moment as he added, "Besides, both of them are premium A-holes. Trigon literally imprisoned Rachel in hell, while Cain robbed Cassandra of her voice so she could only communicate through body language."


    The group exchanged knowing glances. They all shared Nion''s sentiment, silently vowing to protect the children if their fathers came knocking. It wouldn''t be pretty for the father''s of course.


    "Looks like we''re all villains now," Nora sighed.


    "Don''t lump me in with your villainy," Nion retorted, crossing his arms. "I''ve done nothing of the sort."


    "Conquered two races, killed hundreds on live broadcast, threatened world leaders with death," Harley listed his exploits. "I''m pretty sure that makes you a villain."


    "Wah wah wah," Nion mocked, imitating her. "Get a grip, woman. I''m more of an anti-hero."


    "Hey, hey!" Nora tugged at their hair. "Look!"


    Their attention snapped back to the atrium. Rachel had taken a step toward Cassandra, her hand extended. But Cassandra gripped her sword tightly, her body rigid with tension, eyes darting between Rachel''s hand and her face. The team watched with bated breath, Zion and Ivy ready to intervene in an instant if things went sideways.


    Rachel, sensing the unease, slowly lowered her hand and stepped back. The tension immediately eased, and Cassandra loosened her grip on the sword. After a long moment of silent staring, Rachel returned to her post on the bench.


    Rachel, satisfied with the outcome, picked up her book, resuming her quiet reading.


    The group above exhaled in unison, the potential conflict diffused without bloodshed.


    "Aww, I wanted to see a showdown," Harley pouted.


    Zion gave her ponytail a hard yank, causing her to yelp and pull his hair in return. "Rachel can''t use her magic right now, and Cassandra''s too skilled with a sword. It would''ve been one-sided."


    "Then why did you restrict her?" Nora asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "For my privacy," Zion muttered, scrunching his nose. "Certain annoying people keep walking into my room!"


    "Ooooo, was it a girl?" Harley teased, her grin returning.


    "Woman¡ª"


    "MEOW!"


    A loud meow interrupted their conversation. The group turned to see a white and grey Kucing cat with stripes lazily strolling toward them, its eyes demanding attention. They weren''t the only ones to notice it.


    Rachel and Cassandra turned just in time to see the group''s heads collapse into a heap. Zion quickly caught himself, standing up straight while Harley rolled on the floor in laughter. Ivy and Nora remained steady. Zion coughed into his hand, pretending he had just arrived.


    "Eon, what brings you here?" Zion asked dramatically as he picked up the cat.


    "Meow," came the cat''s nonchalant reply.


    Zion fished a treat from his inner pocket and waved it in front of Eon. "Hungry?"


    "Meow!" Eon snatched the treat and darted towards Rachel, running past Cassandra, who had now drawn her sword, eyeing Nion suspiciously.


    The cat leapt into Rachel''s lap, dropping the treat in her hands with a satisfied meow. Rachel smiled faintly and unwrapped the treat, feeding it to the feline, who purred contentedly.


    "That traitorous cat," Nion grumbled as he walked toward Cassandra.


    Cassandra immediately raised her sword, her stance perfect, ready to strike. Without waiting, she lunged at Nion, her blade cutting through the air. Nion simply flicked the sword aside, disarming her effortlessly. The sword clattered into the overgrown garden nearby.


    Weaponless, Cassandra raised her fists, her small frame trembling with determination. Nion looked at her, unable to suppress a smirk. She reminded him of a ferret standing on its hind legs, trying to look fierce.


    With a swift motion, Nion pinched Cassandra''s nose between his fingers, giving it a playful shake. She yelped in muffled protest.


    "Aren''t you just adorable?" Nion teased, swinging her lightly by her nose. "You''re way too cute when you try to look menacing."


    He released her nose and ruffled her hair, thoroughly messing it up. His eyes shifted to Rachel, who hid her nose behind her book, clearly wary of receiving the same treatment. He chuckled. These kids were too adorable. It was like he had adopted three cats.


    Turning his attention back to Cassandra, Nion''s expression grew serious. "You''ll stay here until your training is complete. Same as Rachel. Once it''s done, you can leave."


    Cassandra glared at him, rubbing her nose. Her defiance only made her look more adorable, much to Nion''s amusement.


    "Alright," Nion said, his grin widening. "I think it''s time for you both to see where you are."


    Proverbs 18:10


    "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."


    His eyes twinkled with mischief as he prepared to lead them further into the castle.


    ...


    Isaiah 41:10


    "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

 99- Tour

    Zion''s smile cause Cassandra and Raven raise their guarded.


    This man was about to do something, and he did. Zion stepped forwards, turning into a blur as he caught Cassandra by the back of her neck and turned to Rachel. His eyes sparkled as the girl had already jumped from the bench and hid in the shadow. Yet her very poor stealth was seen through with ease.


    At his next step he caught her,


    Now with the two kitten caught in his hand, he turned to the other. "I will show them around. Se ya latter!


    Okay, Byeeee~"


    Zion had already vanished through the corridor when his final words echoed.


    "He is so excited," Harley jumped, mimicking Zion''s excitement.


    "Children," Nora commented with a small smile on her lips.


    "Whatever," Ivy shrugged dryly.


    .


    .


    .


    Zion dragged the two kitten through the Castle against their will.


    "It is about time you learn of the truth," Zion muttered, his hands holding up his two new kitten.


    Raven and Cassandra mirrored their wronged expression. They looked very indignant and cute. Yet Zion could only control his urge to squish them and explain.


    "Both silent, yet speak in different language. Empathic and Kinesic, one reads mine while other body. You both one of a kind, with guilt so great that you can only drown it with good and mercy."


    Zion understood them both than they could even understand. A heart so kind it would rather kill itself before going against their nature. But he didn''t need them as heroes. Not the kind the JL defined.


    A rabid dog needs to be put down.


    Raven and Cassandra looked at Zion suspiciously, one sensing his emotions, other his twitching grin.


    "Raven, you have the potential to be the one, if not the greatest mage in this universe. Cassandra, you have the ability to understand action deeper than the skin, you speak it. Both of you are just the opposite side of a coin I could expect.


    And both of you will be good company to each other. With your similar origin and unique upbringing will make you better sisters than blood born."


    Raven and Cassandra didn''t doubt his words this time, they could tell his truth.


    "So be good and take care of each other. Moreover, you are not prisoners. Never. This is your home and you can leave whenever you want. Just take Barda or Nora with you, you will meet Barda later.


    But you better return before night."


    Zion continued his chatter as he dragged the silent children through the castle, Showing them the layout of the intricate structure.


    "This castle was build to stand all things that are a galaxy level threat, so it should be safe. The Castle defenses, the Mechmorphs, should be able to deal with any mode of intergalactic fleet," Zion began to brag about his creation.


    "The Castle itself is a Architectural marvel, created on the base of Kryptonian Sunstone mixed with my advance knowledge. It has many facilities. You have already seen the Atrium. It is one of the peaceful spots you will find in this castle. It also functions as Ivy''s greenhouse for her exotic plant.


    You need to unload some emotional burden, just talk to the plants. They are good listeners."


    Zion added the last part with a mischievous smirk. Cassandra though looked very confused, her brain not comprehending Zion''s unwanted chapper. Zion continued walking through the delicately 3D printed archway, leading them down a wide hallway adorned with ancient tapestries. Murals depicting the creation of the universe, a story of a kind god.


    "Since this will be your home for the possible future, better memories the layout. If you can''t, don''t worry. Knock on the walls three time and tell it where you want to go. It will open a direct path,"


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    Zion explained so they would not get lost in this hive city.


    They arrived at a set of massive doors, craved from dark crystals, and reinforced with golden filigree. The door opened naturally, with an unnatural silence for the massive size. Beyond them lay the training hall, a vast space filled with everything a warrior could ever need.


    "This is your training grounds. I will train you both every other day, you can come here anytime to work up some sweat. There is also colosseum, but you better not go there. Its for older people." Zion said, lifting the kitting to show them their new playground.


    The room was bigger than an auditorium, divided into several sections, On one side, there were padded mats for hand-to-hand combat practice, with weapons racks lining the walls¡ªSwords, daggers, staffs and more exotic weapons like a Bazooka and Machine gun. On the others side were mechanical dummies programmed to simulate combat.


    "The dummies will simulate real life combat without the endangering you life. If you want to up the challenge, the training ground can also simulate all kind of terrains. To give you additional challenge. You can also use magic in this room without constrain, the wall''s were enchanted by yours truly, so even if Trigon come, he will be locked in here."


    He then turned to the kittens to face him, staring into their eyes. "And unlike your parents, I am also trying to make you into deadly weapons. Just kidding. You will be trained so you don''t end up dying to some stupid idiot on a ditch and disgrace my name."


    Zion made sure they understood that before he turned away from the training room and continued the tour. They passed through another hallway, this one more exaggerated, enchantments glowing with power, engraving speaking of unknown truths.


    Rachel could feel the energy oozing off these wall. And they were not to be trifled with. Yet she could not read the enchantments to say what kind of power sealed within. She could only expect a monster of ultimate power.


    They stood before a mighty door again, words of language that could not be recognized sang songs. The door, unlike before, only opened when Zion stood a feet before it. The door opened with grandeur.


    The room was towering, spirals of shelves reaching to the heavens, filled with books of unknown origin. The air smelled of parchment and ink, and the soft glow of ion lamps illuminated the space.


    "This is," Zion said, spreading his arms wide, frightening the kittens. "is the library. It''s the largest collection of magical, scientific, martial data. It also have the minor stuffs the Earth''s library has, whatever whatever. you can also read some novel if you want.


    On that note Cassandra, we will be working on your voice thing. I already healed it, so you will be working with me and your sister on that."


    Cassandra looked at him a bit surprised, while Raven looked like she just found the shiniest toy in the world.


    "All book are lock under age category," Zion bombed her joy before carrying them both away.


    After they left the library, he carried them down a flight of stairs, the air growing colder as the descended to the lower level. The light turned floral green as a sterile scent filled the bay.


    The crystal door slid open to reveal a pristine room filled with advance medical equipment. Healing pods that can do literally everything, hibernation pods, varieties of medial instruments arranged neatly. Wall lined with shelved containing potions, elixirs and other advance medicine.


    "This is the hospital of this castle," Zion introduced.


    "We''ve got everything here to take care of any injuries," Zion explained. "Magical wounds, physical trauma, illnesses¡ªyou name it. We even have advanced cryo-chambers for more serious recoveries. Nora, Victor and Ivy keeps this place in check with their expertise, so you''re in safe hands."


    Zion didn''t stay any longer as the kids were healed of any trace of trauma when they entered his home. The healing was a bit extensive for Cassandra as he need to fully resynthesis a voice box and create a new neural path in her brain. So she will not lose her ability to read her opponent like a book while still learn to read and speak.


    Her father was a Bitch{Couldn''t find a better word}, but he is not going to take away her advantage.


    They climbed back up the stairs and arrived at another grand set of doors. Zion pushed them open to reveal the dining hall¡ªa long, elegant room with a high vaulted ceiling and a massive stone fireplace. A long table stretched down the center, surrounded by plush chairs.


    "We will have our meals here, mostly breakfast and dinner as others have varying schedule," Zion added, before explaining how to get food. "Press on the table and you can order any kind of food. They are from Gotham''s best restaurants."


    Rachel''s stomach grumbled at the mention of food, and Zion chuckled. "What would you like? but only a snack, J''emm invited me for dinner," Zion dropped rachel down and pressed on the table, the menu popped and he quickly selected.


    Two wrapped sandwiches instantly materialized on the table on the plate.


    "Eat slow, its still hot," He advised as he handed Rachel a sandwich.


    He then turned, walking out the room. He didn''t lift raven again as he let her walk on her own. But Cassandra looked very angry at him for that. He just handed her the other sandwich.


    "Now be good and I will let you down," Zion booped her nose.


    They continued onward, passing another corridor until they reached a staircase leaving to the upper levels.


    "Both of you already know your quarters, you are neighbors so help each other. The room can be customized in every way possible, you can find a bot that roams the corridor if you need anything. I just hope its not all black and gloom," Zion advice as they finally arrived at a terrace.


    "But now," Zion said, his voice deepening slightly, "Let''s get to the part I''m most proud of."


    He finally arrived at the top of the castle. There, they stood on the high tower of the Castle, overlooking the entire landscape. The stone battlements stretched out before them, and beyond, the land rolled into a mixture of mountains, forests, and rivers, all made of Black and gold.


    "This," Zion said, gesturing to the view, "is My kingdom. built from my sheer ingenuity. A new breath in the Martian soil. A kingdom that would last a century. Oh yeah, you are in Mar."


    He turned to his left pointing at the big dot in the sky. "That''s earth. I will take you there sometimes."


    Rachel and Cassandra gazed out at the horizon. The blue dot in the distance was like a dream. They were on entirely on a different planet. A distance they could not cross with sheer will.


    "Okay, its time to go meet out neighbors," Zion said as he flung the kids from the terrace.

 100 - Wild Ride

    "Azarath Metrion Zinthos! Azarath Metrion Zinthos!"


    Rachel''s fingers twitched, her instincts desperate to cast her magic. She could feel the energy rising to her fingertips, but the spell vaporized, leaving them helpless as she and Cassandra plummeted through the sky, having been hurled from the high tower.


    The girls, aged 10 and 8, reacted quickly and without fear. Unlike normal children, they had seen too much chaos to be phased by a fall from such heights.


    Rachel''s attempt at magic failed, while Cassandra tried to drive her sword into the tower walls to slow their descent. The blade bounced off the surface with a sharp metallic clank.


    "Calm," came a cold, raspy voice.


    Chilling fingers brushed against their scruffs, sending shivers down their spines as they were lifted from their fall. The descent slowed, and they were soon gliding through the air. The children looked up, their wide eyes catching the sight of enormous moth-like wings keeping them afloat.


    Their gaze traveled further up to meet large green eyes, segmented like an insect''s. The creature''s black skin glistened with patches of blue on its chest, arms, and legs.


    Cassandra''s reaction was immediate; she swung her sword at the creature''s arm, but Zion, now in his Big Chill form, merely gave her a gentle shake, calming her down. Rachel, on the other hand, looked with curious fascination. Even in Hell, she had never seen a creature quite like this.


    With Cassandra now subdued, Zion carried them through the sky, gliding as he gave them a sweeping view of the sprawling castle-city below. It was a sight to behold. The castle, illuminated under the starry sky, was a monumental structure¡ªa fusion of medieval grandeur and futuristic design. Towers of stone stood alongside shimmering golden circuits, creating an intricate maze of spires, domes, and glowing pathways. The entire structure seemed alive, humming faintly with energy.


    As they soared over the castle walls, the thickness of the stone¡ªstrong enough to withstand a Kryptonian''s punches¡ªbecame apparent. The walls, taller and more fortified than any the girls had ever seen, guarded the city within. Big Chill gently descended, allowing them to land with their feet just inches above the ground.


    "Let''s take a detour," Big Chill said in his raspy voice, as his hands reached for the Omnitrix device on his chest.


    A flash of golden light enveloped him, and his form began to shift. His humanoid features morphed into that of a beast¡ªhis legs shrinking, arms thickening, and his blue-black skin now covered in thick orange fur. His eyes disappeared, replaced by gills on the sides of his neck, and two pairs of tusks jutted from his wide mouth. Long claws formed on his hands, sharp enough to cut through metal. The transformation completed with a metallic collar appearing around his neck, adorned with the Omnitrix symbol.


    "ROOOOAR!"


    The bestial cry erupted from Zion''s new form¡ªWildmutt¡ªa roar so powerful it shook the earth beneath them. Cassandra instinctively took a step back, her sword raised defensively, while Rachel stood still, awe-struck by the transformation.


    "Grwl!" Wildmutt growled, conveying to the girls that they should climb onto his back.


    Rachel, understanding, turned to Cassandra and pointed toward Wildmutt''s back. The massive creature slowly moved behind Rachel, opening his mouth wide as he gently bit her cloak and threw her onto his back.


    He then walked over to Cassandra, who held her sword tightly, ready to defend herself. But Wildmutt merely lowered his body, inviting her to climb on. Rachel extended her hand to Cassandra in a gesture of trust. After a brief moment of hesitation, Cassandra took Rachel''s hand and climbed up, seating herself in front of her older companion.


    "Graaa," Wildmutt barked softly, signaling that they should hold on tight.


    "Hold tight," Rachel echoed, wrapping her arms around Cassandra as they clutched Wildmutt''s thick fur.


    Once they were settled, Wildmutt didn''t waste any time. With a powerful leap, he charged forward, quickly accelerating to the speed of a car. The wind whipped against the girls'' faces as they hurtled across the black plains.


    The landscape shifted rapidly. The flat, featureless ground of black and gold gave way to an expansive forest. But this was no ordinary forest¡ªits trees were geometric, their trunks and branches formed of sharp, angular shapes. The leaves, too, were strange, resembling flattened pixels, while the ground beneath them was uneven yet perfectly symmetrical, as if crafted by some cosmic architect. Everything was black and gold, a bizarre but mesmerizing mechanical beauty.


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.The girls marveled at the sight before realizing they were not alone.


    Small creatures, their bodies a blend of black with glowing green circuitry, darted from tree to tree. Their round eyes observed the passing trio curiously, some following them for a time before disappearing into the foliage.


    Suddenly, heavier steps approached, scattering the smaller critters. A pack of wolf-like beasts emerged, their long noses sniffing the air as their sharp ears twitched in response to Wildmutt''s presence. Their circle eyes, glowing with an eerie green light, scanned the girls before howling excitedly as they ran alongside them. Rachel couldn''t sense their emotions, but she knew they were sentient.


    The wolves soon dispersed, replaced by another creature¡ªa tiger-like beast, far larger and more muscular than the wolves. Its short snout and rounded ears gave it an imposing presence, and its twin tails flicked behind it as it growled, challenging Wildmutt.


    "Grawwww!" Wildmutt barked in response, slamming his body into the tiger as they ran.


    The two creatures struggled for dominance, growling and pushing against each other. Then, with a powerful leap, Wildmutt jumped over the tiger, allowing it to crash into a tree. The beast huffed in frustration but did not pursue, and Wildmutt barked a final time before increasing his speed, leaving the tiger behind.


    As they ran through the forest, the air suddenly shifted. A strong wind blew from above, prompting the girls to look up. Their eyes widened in amazement as a colossal bird flew overhead, its wingspan covering the entire sky. The bird''s shadow cast a dark blanket over them as it soared through the air, its powerful thrusters propelling it forward with ease.


    The ground beneath them began to tremble again. This time, the vibrations were stronger¡ªheavier. Ahead, they saw a towering figure rise above the treetops. A mechanical T-rex, its massive frame casting a shadow over the forest. Its gold eyes glowed menacingly, and each step it took sent shockwaves through the earth, causing rocks to bounce.


    "ROAR!" The T-rex let out a deafening bellow, shaking the very trees.


    Undeterred, Wildmutt sprinted toward it, matching the beast''s roar with one of his own. "ROAR!"


    The mechanical giant paused, its glowing eyes scanning Wildmutt before it huffed and turned, stomping away into the depths of the forest.


    With the top predator retreating, no other creatures dared approach. Wildmutt continued his race through the darkened forest until they reached a narrow, jagged split in the mountain. The rocks around them resembled the gaping maw of a beast, ready to swallow them whole. Without hesitation, Wildmutt leapt into the dark chasm.


    The walls of the mountain hummed with energy, glowing golden veins of circuitry coursing through the rock, pulsating like the heartbeat of the earth itself.


    They emerged on the other side into a landscape unlike anything they had ever seen. The ground was a rolling plane of soft waves, undulating like the surface of a gentle sea. Wildmutt raced across it, his steps causing ripples in the strange, living terrain.


    Creatures began to emerge from the ground, leaping into the air without warning. Small fish-like beings jumped alongside them, their sleek bodies shimmering as they darted through the waves of the land. Rachel reached out her hand, and one of the creatures grazed her fingers before diving back into the earth.


    Then, the largest of them all appeared¡ªa monolithic creature, its size dwarfing everything around it. With a deep, whale-like hum, it surfaced for just a moment before disappearing back into the earth, as silently as it had come.


    With the great creature''s departure, the landscape returned to its calm state. There was a lingering sense of awe in the air, but also a deep, quiet fear. The sea of land beneath them held unimaginable depths, and in those depths, creatures beyond comprehension slumbered.


    Soon, they reached the edge of the black lands, where the ground blended into the red desert of Mars. The contrast of black and red was striking, the veins of black reaching forward like the roots of some great digital tree.


    Wildmutt charged into the red desert, leaving footprints in the sand as a small white light enveloped the girls, shielding them from the harsh wind and heat. Rachel looked at the protective glow surrounding her body, sensing the life energy within it.


    Her gaze shifted to the horizon, where the red Martian sun rose, painting the sky in shades of crimson and gold. The sight was breathtaking, a surreal landscape that felt like the birth of a new world.


    The ground beneath them began to change once again. Small patches of Martian grass appeared, the first signs of life reclaiming the barren planet. The air grew more humid as they neared the next destination.


    In the distance, floating islands came into view. Massive landmasses suspended in the sky, each one a sanctuary of its own. Waterfalls cascaded from the largest of the islands, creating a misty veil that covered the ground below. Buildings of various shapes and sizes dotted the landscape, their architecture alien yet majestic.


    As they entered the capital city, M''acellendra, they passed through streets filled with Martian citizens. Floating creatures, humanoid figures went about their daily lives, their eyes barely glancing at the trio on Wildmutt''s back.


    The orange beast continued through the city until they reached the edge of a massive hollow that descended hundreds of meters into the Martian crust. The hollow was a marvel of engineering, with multiple levels carved into the rock, each one interconnected by bridges and platforms. Water from the floating island above cascaded into the hollow, creating a network of rivers and streams that nourished the city below.


    This was M''acellendra¡ªthe newly upgraded capital of Mars, a testament to Zion''s ingenuity and J''emm''s vision for the future of their people.


    At the center of the hollow, at the lowest level, stood the king''s castle, a symbol of J''emm''s desire to remain close to his people. The new city was a perfect blend of nature and technology, a thriving colony that would one day transform Mars into a lush, green planet.


    Wildmutt gazed down at the city below, his eyes reflecting the quiet majesty of M''acellendra. He gave a final, deep growl before leaping into the hollow, taking the girls with him to meet the king.

 101 - Ten

101. Ten


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    ¡°


    Superman

 102 - Bar fight

    "Would you like these clones to use susano or not?"


    The line immaculately delivered, though with only half of its requirement met, flew right over the bouncers head. They did not get the reference.


    This resulted in the collective facepalm of the Ditto population. They looked at the standing Ditto with pure disappointment, the face that your father made when he gazed upon you and realized you were his child.


    I assure you, he was disappointed.


    No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. (John 16: 27)


    Moving on, the audience of Ditto didn''t take lightly to such disappointment and were no shy in giving constructive criticism.


    "That was Bad."


    "It was like Superman trying to be Batman."


    "It was like seeing Batman wearing Wonder Woman''s dress with a full beard."


    "It was an immaculate fail of the century."


    "I wish I could erase my brain."


    "I wish I could dig my ears out in the past."


    "We need to rewind time to erase this disgrace."


    With each critic, Ditto could only shrink. The criticism heavily damaging his confidence as a person. He might actually need some consultation after this event.


    "Enough!"


    Shouted the bouncer who had enough of being ignored. He had insecurities about his presence and was angered by the lack of acknowledgement. But we are not here to talk about his psychological need nor his daddy issues.


    "Shut up!"


    He shouted, gazing straight at the very handsome, very immaculate, very winner of the best looking stud in the compound. The Handsome Ditto could only turn his head and looked at the man coolly.


    "Stop narrating."


    He demanded.


    But the Cool and Handsome Ditto would not do such bidding of an average looking guy. The handsome stud lightly brushed his manly whiskers and looked at the man intently. A challenge accepted.


    A stare down.


    "What the hell is going on?!"


    A new player, a man wearing only his pants¡ªthe boss of the bar, no doubt¡ª emerged from the back room. In urgency, deduced by the hurriedly put pants with unbuckled belt, marks of lipstick on his lips and the very feminine perfume scent mixed with very intense hormones.


    He turned to look at the dashingly handsome, "Bonjour." Spoke the handsome ditto in his manly voice.


    "What are you all looking at! Kill them!!"


    The boss roared, looking very constipated as he did so. The bouncers finally gained the courage to meet wit to wit with the handsome Dittos.


    The bouncers began their bulldoze charge, running straight to pummel the little munchkins that had infiltrated their livelihood. Yet to their dismay, they were clearly outclassed and outnumbered.


    "Stop narrating!" Shouted the Bouncer as he charged at the handsome lad with a baton on hand..


    But he would never reach him. He would step on a bottle, slip and fall head first into a table, and faint.


    The bouncer halted, looking down to make sure that he was indeed not about to step on a bottle, but that was a mistake. The handsome lad jumped from the table, did two beautiful spins midair and made a perfect landing on the bouncers neck.


    "Argh!" Cried the man as he fell face first and fainted.


    On the other side, Chaos erupted like a shaken soda can mixed with mint. Very explosive and spontaneous.


    "Start the Porty, yo!" Disco Ditto declared as he began to play a sick jam.


    A whirlwind of Black and White blew across the club. Booming music, sick beats and a lots and lots of villainous giggled. Dittos were finally unleashing their inner beasts.


    "Put ''em up!" Challenged a Ditto, boxing the air while he stood atop a bar stool, wearing a tie as a bandanna. "You think you could take me?


    "You rat!" A foolish bouncer charged, taking a wild swing with his braze knuckles.


    But the Ditto used his agility and jumped above his swing. Performing a perfect triple back-flip as he landed back on table tripled.


    Clap clap clap,


    The audience cheered at the marvelous acrobatics.


    "The rodents are multiplying," Said the bouncer, confused and confounded by such miracles, reaching to grab one of them. But the Ditto ducked under his arms with an exaggerated swoosh.


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    "Can''t catch us," Ditto teased with the truth, zigzagging between the man''s legs, dodging every clumsy swipe with ease.


    Another Ditto caught on the ceiling fan, spinning around like a hyperactive monkey.


    "Wheeee!" He screamed in delight before leaping off. He extended his finger to stop his fall. Yet the cloth he grabbed tore with a ''rip''.


    "Oops," Ditto held out the torn t-shirt to the man who was now bare for all to see.


    "You little gremlin!" The man screamed, shredding his already torn shirt.


    "Who are you callin'' a germlin?" A Ditto leapt on his head, digging his fingers into the man''s hair and pulling. "You need a new hair cut, buddy!"


    The man groaned, flailing about as Ditto clung to his head like a spider monkey. "Let go!"


    "Nope!" Ditto answered as he decided to give the man a new haircut, by pulling all his hair out.


    Yet on another platform, much more intricate dance was fought.


    Two Ditto''s dancing at the edge of abyss, crossed swords. Using the bar stool as swords, they fenced with ferocity of a pro.


    "You fight with the elegance of a drunken chicken!" One Ditto declared, parrying the incoming attack.


    "You, sir, fight like a blindfolded raccoon!" Other Ditto responded, swinging wildly, knocking over a tray of drinks.


    "Careful with those!" shouted a third Ditto, wearing a makeshift bartender''s apron made with a woman top. "I don''t wanna clean more than I have to!"


    However, one side of the battle was not in Ditto''s favor.


    A bouncer grabbed on of the Ditto''s by the leg, lifting him off the ground. "Finally got you!" He snarled.


    "Wrong," Ditto squeaked, splitting into two more midair. The two new slipped down, landing on either side of him.


    "Is that all you got?" The first Ditto asked, crossing his arms with a smug grin.


    The bouncer grumbled, reaching for the nearest clone. Ditto darted away from his swing and another poked him with a bar stood.


    "I had enough!" Bouncer shouted as he flung a table at a Ditto. Ditto ducked out the way, letting the table smash into a stack of beer on the Bar. Glass shattering everywhere.


    "Oopsie," Ditto giggled poking his head from behind the bar.


    The Bartender Ditto threw his apron on the floor. "You brake it, you buy it!" He felt indignant that his work was not appreciated.


    Another bouncer, clearly fed up, charged in, swinging his nunchucks at a group of Ditto clones.


    "Enough of this circus!"


    "Cirque du Soleil!" one Ditto corrected, dodging the swing. "We''re classier than a circus."


    He was met with a swing to his chest, flinging across the room. he landed with a thud, stuck to the wall like a squishy toy. "Alright, that one hurt," He admitted, sliding down the wall comically.


    "Ya think ya tough, huh?!" yelled a Ditto from the pool table, standing Triumphantly with a pool cue in his hand.


    "Try this for size!" He yelled as he jumped off the pool table, whacking the bouncer''s leg out. The bouncer jumped like a slapped bull as a Ditto hopped onto his back.


    "Rodeo time!" Ditto whipped a hat, holding onto the bouncer as he tried to shake him off. "There are no day like today to live! Yeehaw!!!"


    Ditto with the stick gave the bouncer a whack on the butt, sending the bull charging.


    Meanwhile, one of the bouncers who had been thrown into the table earlier stood up clutching his ribs. "I''ve had enough of you freaks!"


    "Ooh, now it''s personal," Ditto said, hands on his hips, glaring up at the towering man. "Freak eh, I will show ya what freak feels like!"


    Before the bouncer could reply, Ditto lunge forward with a Baton in his hand. His aim straight and his target double. He hit a homerun on the Man''s balls. The impact was swift, accompanied by a crunch.


    The man''s face twisted in sheer agony as the room echoed with a unanimous ooohhhhhh from all the Dittos.


    "HOME RUNNNNN!" Ditto announced triumphantly.


    The poor man crumpled to the floor, clutching his lower half, gasping for breath. Yet no scream left his lips, only a few curse. "Y-you... little... monster!"


    "Shush, Shush. No need for compliments." Ditto soothed the man by patting him on the head. "I''m just doin'' my job."


    Across the bar, another Ditto wielded a mop like it was sword, fencing with an increasingly frustrated bouncer. "En garde!" He shouted, jabbing with the mop handle.


    "Stop playin'' around and fight me for real!" the bouncer snarled, swinging a chair.


    "Real? You want me to fight ya for real?" Ditto asked, flipping over the agility of a cat. "Ya want some nut cracker?!" He pointed.


    The bouncer now gazed at the poor man clutching his broken balls. He cringed, his hands reaching to cover his manhood.


    "No~" He said in a weak voice.


    *Crash*


    Table flipped over as some bouncers gained a second wind, trying to take down the seemingly endless horde of Dittos. They threw everything they could grab on at the elusive hoard.


    "There''s too many of them." One of the bouncers cried.


    "Nope, just enough of us!" Bartender Ditto shouted, chugging bottles at the men. "This is a classy establishment¡ªhow dare you act unsightly!"


    The boss who was pushed around by the Ditto reached his limit, reaching for his gun. Yet before he could draw, a Ditto swung down from the pole, landing on his back and knocking the weapon away.


    "No weapons in a fist fight!" Ditto said as he wagging in his finger at the grown man like he was chiding a child.


    The boss fell to his knees, clutching his now-aching back with a misplace vertebrate. "You... little... freaks..." He grunted through his gasped breath.


    "Hey, that''s freak plural, mister," Ditto shot back, folding his arms. "I prefer the term ''fun-sized heroes,'' thank you very much!"


    "I got you," A bouncer spoke in joy, now sneaked behind the Handsome Ditto.


    Yet, he was now met with the gun''s end by the Handsome Ditto. In all his awesomeness, he had predicted such pathetic behavior. "Leave me be," He said coolly, sending the bouncer away without much trouble.


    But to the bouncers dismay, Cowboy Ditto found his new horse. He leap on the man''s shoulder and yanked his hair. "Ride ''em cowboy!" He yelled as the man flailed around, trying to throw him off.


    Suddenly, the doors burst open, and in stormed a squad of Gotham''s police officers, Guns draw and panic in their eye. They paused, dumbfounded by the sight before them¡ªmultiple alien creatures wreaking absolute havoc, beating up full-grown men.


    "What.. what in the¡ª" the Officer stammered in shock, lowing his gun in disbelief.


    "Uhm... we surrender? One of the Dittos raised his hands innocently, while another was still smacking a bouncer in the face with a tray in the background.


    The commanding officer, Commissioner Gordon himself, stepped into the chaotic scene, looking just as bewildered as the rest of his men.


    "What?" Commissioner Gordan questioned the most handsome of Ditto''s. "What?"


    "Who are you?!" Gordon begged the most handsome Ditto.


    "Ditto," The handsome Ditto answered graciously.


    "And why, exactly, are you... beating these people up?" Gordon asked, rubbing his temples as if he was on the verge of a migraine.


    One Ditto, wearing a broken bottle on his head like a crown, stepped forward. "Because I was angry!" he shouted dramatically.


    "Fun!" another chimed in.


    "Fun!" chorused the rest, like a bunch of mischievous schoolchildren caught in the act.


    Gordon sighed deeply, massaging his forehead. "Just... just get cuffed. All of you. And you stop narrating!"


    "Can''t cuff us all!" Ditto laughed, as one of him slipped behind the bar and disappeared into a sea of overturned tables.


    "Yeah, good luck with that!" another Ditto shouted from the ceiling fan, spinning like a maniac as he flung peanut shells at the officers.


    The rest of the police squad groaned in frustration as the seemingly infinite army of Dittos continued to wreak havoc.


    Gordon just stood there, arms crossed, watching the chaos unfold. "I should have called Batman."

 103 - In Order

    The bar was in absolute chaos. Ditto clones were climbing walls, swinging from ceiling fans, and tossing half-eaten snacks at both the bouncers and the Gotham police. Amidst the cartoonish madness, Commissioner Gordon stood helpless, wondering why he ever thought tonight would be peaceful.


    Suddenly, a cold wind waft through the open door. A shadow loomed from the corner, growing larger and darker until the unmistakable figure of Batman stepped into the dim light, his cape billowing dramatically. The chaos slowed for just a second as all eyes¡ªhuman, Ditto, and otherwise¡ªturned to the Dark Knight.


    Ditto, who had been wearing a makeshift crown, immediately dropped his royal posture and saluted. "Batsy''s here, everyone! Playtime''s over!"


    "Party pooper!!!" Disco Ditto shouted, honking a horn he found somewhere.


    "I am Gotham''s Shadow," one of the Dittos declared, attempting to mimic Batman.


    "I am the Night." Another joined in


    "I am Vengeance."


    "I am Batman!"


    The Ditto clones chorused, their voices echoing in unison.


    "Want a drink, Batman?" the bartender Ditto asked casually as he wiped a glass. "It''s on the house."


    But Batman was not amused. "Stop this chaos."


    "Thank God you''re here." Gordon sighed in relief.


    "It''s nothing to worry about, Gordon," Batman glared at the sea of Ditto clones. "We need to talk. Now."


    The Ditto clones groaned, disappointed by the sudden halt to their fun. One of them, perched atop a defeated bouncer, muttered, "Aww, c''mon, we were just getting started."


    "Okay, well, I was here to talk to you both anyway," the original Ditto¡ªTen¡ªremarked nonchalantly. He clapped his hands. "Time out, boys!"


    At his command, all the Dittos groaned but obediently began to fuse back together. The Omnitrix on Ditto''s head beeped, and in a bright flash, all the clones disappeared, leaving only Ten standing there, now in his regular form. He crossed his arms casually and leaned against the bar.


    Batman and Gordon watched as the chaotic scene simmered down. "We''ve got a lot to discuss," Ten pointed at the stools in front of him.


    Batman remained standing, his eyes locked onto Ten.


    "Well, if you want to stand, fine," Ten shrugged. "But let me introduce myself properly. I''m Ten. I''m your king''s right-hand man, and I was sent here to check on Gotham''s conditions before¡­ well, I forgot what that was."


    Batman''s eyes narrowed slightly but remained silent.


    "Look, Bat," Ten started, adjusting his round glasses. "I was just doing a little¡­ community check-up."


    "By wrecking a bar and brawling with half its patrons?" Gordan asked, folding his arms.


    Ten shrugged again, unphased by Batman''s growing tension from the side. "Eh, a bit of fun on the side. Besides, places like this¡ª" He gestured to the dingy bar. "They''re not exactly pillars of the community. I thought I could nudge things in the right direction."


    Batman''s jaw tightened. "You''ve crossed the line."


    "Maybe," Ten admitted, pushing off the bar to stand up straight. "But I helped some people tonight. Cleaned up a mess without calling in the big guys."


    "You''re should be helping then," Batman replied, stepping closer, his shadow swallowing Ten. "Not causing more problems."


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    Ten sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Alright, alright, point taken. But I wasn''t causing more problems. More like¡­ multitasking."


    He pulled a note from his jacket and flipped it open. "I made a checklist. Just confirm a few things." He looked over at Gordon. "How''s the crime situation, Commissioner?"


    Gordon, now calmer but still unsure of Ten, adjusted his glasses. "Crime has dropped significantly. We''re down to minor cases most nights, and we''ve closed a lot of old ones. With the bigger crime families neutralized, Gotham has been¡­ peaceful."


    "Good, good," Ten noted, scribbling in his book. "But don''t slack off just because the Sentinels are doing a lot of the work."


    Batman''s eyes narrowed further, his gaze fixed on Ten. "Sentinels aren''t here to replace the police."


    Ten continued scribbling. "Next up¡ªpollution. Both air and water quality have improved by 95%. Expect some weather changes soon. Corruption¡ª" He looked up at Gordon again. "How''re the new hires doing since, you know, most of the old force was arrested for corruption?"


    "They''re¡­ doing well," Gordon admitted. "The fresh recruits are enthusiastic, and the Sentinels have taken the pressure off us. The new force seems committed to keeping the law."


    "Good to hear." Ten flipped to another page. "Now, about those unclean streets. I''ve seen back alleys still filled with garbage. Get that sorted out before the end of the week. Wayne Enterprises will provide new equipment."


    Ten didn''t even glance at Batman when he mentioned Wayne.


    "And the issue of homelessness and poverty. My shelters have helped a lot, but we can''t solve everything with just shelters. We need more occupations and hope. There are still places, like this strip club, exploiting people when they''re at their lowest." He turned to Batman, a serious edge in his voice. "Batman, I need you to handle that. I''ll give you clearance. I want Gotham cleaned up."


    Batman''s expression hardened. "Gotham has always been more complicated than a simple clean-up. But I will sort this out with Gordan."


    "I know," Ten agreed. "But it''s about time the police stop relying on vigilantes. Gotham''s changing, and I don''t want an incompetent force¡ªresignations if you can''t even do your job, period. Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow." Isaiah 1:17


    Ten''s tone grew more serious as he continued. "And as for the newly emerging criminals, there''s a power vacuum in Gotham''s underworld left by the big bads, but I want any small-timers or wannabes shut down before they can take root. We don''t need more joker nor Two-face"


    Gordon nodded slowly. "We''ve been keeping an eye out for anyone trying to fill that gap."


    "Good," Ten said, closing his notebook with a snap. "Because I want Gotham clean and safe by next Monday."


    "Why the deadline?" Batman asked, his voice cold and precise.


    "Nion is reopening Gotham¡ªa fresh start for this city," Ten said, standing up from his seat. "That''s all. See you later."


    As Ten turned to leave, Batman took a step forward. "You''re not leaving. You''re under arrest for property damage and causing chaos in a public venue."


    Ten looked genuinely surprised. "What?"


    "Commissioner, cuff him," Batman ordered in his neutral, unshakable tone.


    Gordon hesitated, looking between Batman and Ten, before slowly reaching for the cuffs on his belt.


    "You will not!" Ten snapped. "I''m an official envoy of your king on official duty! I have the authority to punish criminals."


    "But this is Earth," Batman replied firmly.


    Ten glared at him. "Gordon, if you put those cuffs on me, you can forget about ever working as a cop again."


    Gordon wavered for a moment, but Batman didn''t blink. "Gordon doesn''t care about that. He''ll arrest you for breaking the law. You can call a lawyer."


    Ten took a step back as Gordon approached, his eyes scanning Batman. Then, noticing a faint twitch at the corner of Batman''s mouth, realization dawned. "Wait a minute¡­ you''re enjoying this, aren''t you?"


    Batman''s lip twitched ever so slightly, betraying a hint of satisfaction.


    Gordon raised an eyebrow. "Batman?"


    "I hate you," Ten muttered, lightly punching Batman''s chest. "But you''re not arresting me."


    In a flash, Ten blitzed past them, heading for the door. The police standing guard outside parted immediately, not wanting to get involved.


    Gordon and Batman followed him out just in time to see a helmet form around Ten''s head. He climbed onto a sleek, advanced-looking bike, the design familiar to Batman¡ªhis own Bat-Bike, but modified with golden circuitry and a circular headlight, its design more slick and alien.


    "Stay tight, Gotham," Ten called out as he revved the engine.


    Though it was an energy-based bike, it roared with power, the wheels glowing golden before it took off with blinding speed, leaving Batman and Gordon watching as he vanished into the night.


    "Ship, set course for Central City!" Ten ordered the bike.


    The bike hummed in response, and within moments, Ten was out of Gotham, breaking every speed limit on the way.


    His bike¡ªnamed S.H.I.P.¡ªwas a hybrid of a Martian Bio-Ship and a Mechmorph, something Zion had obtained from King J''emm. It took very little convincing. Bio-ships were rare, and with the Omnitrix, Zion had turned it into the perfect hybrid. Now, it was a hyper-evolving machine, adapting to every challenge.


    As he sped away, Ten grinned under his helmet. "Finally, something with a little style."


    *****

 104 - Central City

    The streets of the Central City were bathed in Sunlight,


    The usual hum of the city replaced by the deafening roar of Chaos.


    Citizens ran for cover as beams of ice, explosions and bursts of fire erupted through the air. The Rogues were on a rampage, after their failed attempt at robbing of Central City Bank. Even after their meticulous planning to make sure of the Scarlet Speedsters absence/


    Barry Allen¡ªThe Flash¡ªwas nothing but a blur as he sprinted at an unimaginable speed. He zigzagged between the cold blasts from Captain Cold''s gun, Tricksters explosive toys and heatwave''s fiery sprouts.


    "I need to stop them before they cause more damage," Barry muttered to himself, his suit''s assistance showing a perfect trajectory to avoid the attacks and bring down the Rogue. But the Rogue had became more coordinated, smarter under Snort''s leadership.


    Captain Cold, Heatwave, Weather Wizard, Trickster retreated out the Bank while keeping the Scarlet speedster occupied. Weather Wizard raised his Staff, raising a blizzard and Lightning to deal with the police surrounding them.


    The Rogue moved in synchrony, a plan in place. Captain Cold pointed his Cold gun at the officers.


    "Stick to the plan," Cold said, his voice calm and cold. "We take down the Scarlet Speedster today."


    Flash arrived just in time to rescue the officers from turning into popsicle. He didn''t waste time as he roomed toward the Rogue, dodging the cascade of ice shards thrown his way by Cold, flame from heatwave and explosive pellets of Trickster.


    He circled them, trapping them in the eye of red and yellow, hoping to disorient them.


    But Cold remained unfazed.


    "Think you''re clever, Flash?" Cold taunted. "This ain''t our first rodeo."


    Weather Wizard raised his staff, his grin widening as he summoned a gale. The vortex began to destabilize as wind and lighting clashed with Flash''s speed. Barry grunted, even as his suit absorbed stray lighting, avoiding cold''s blast while the winds pushed against him.


    "Can''t let this go on," Flash decided.


    In the blink of an eye, he bolted toward Weather Wizard and delivered a punch that sent his staff flying. He then spun on his heel, aiming for Heatwave. But just as he landed a punch on heatwave, a mirror shimmered in the corner of his eye.


    "Too late, Flash!" Mirror Master''s voice echoed as Flash was sucked into the reflective surface.


    Flash felt his body being stretched, twisted, and warped. In an instant, He was trapped in a maze of mirrors. Reflection of himself and Rogues multiplying in every direction. Shards of inverted images floating about in the Mirror dimension.


    "You are trapped, Flash," Mirror Master laughed, his distorted face appearing on the countless mirror shards. "There is no way out."


    Flash could feel his heart pounding, the suit humming as it began vibrating. Flash followed by tapping into the Speed Force, vibrating his molecules while synchronizing the frequency with his suit. To his chagrin, it was not the first time imprisoning in Mirror.


    His vision blurred, the air crackled with energy as the dimensional shackles loosed around his body.


    Just as Barry was about to escape, Captain Cold''s voice broke through the chaos, calm and calculating. "Now, Trickster!"


    A small, ticking sound echoed through the maze of mirrors. Flash''s eyes widened as he saw a series of explosive toys scattered on the ground around him.


    "Surprise!" Trickster''s gleeful voice rang out as the explosives detonated, shattering the mirrors and throwing Flash out of the maze with a violent force. He landed hard on the cold floor, his head spinning from the impact


    For a moment, the world slowed down. Flash''s ears rang as he struggled to get back on his feet, his vision blurry. The Rogues were regrouping, and he was vulnerable, caught unguarded in his escape.


    "Ice him," Cold said, walking forward with his cold gun raised, a confident smirk on his face. "It''s over, Flash."


    A massive wall of ice erupted from Cold''s gun, racing toward Barry. He barely had time to react, slipping just enough to avoid being completely encased. But it wasn''t enough. The cold bit into his skin, and ice crystals formed along his suit.


    Barry''s legs felt heavy, his speed faltering. He was slowing down. "No¡­ not now¡­" he whispered, trying to push himself forward.


    "You can''t outrun us forever," Cold continued, his gun charging for another blast. "You''ve always been fast, Flash, but we''re smarter."


    Barry''s breath came in shallow gasps, the ice clinging to him like chains. But his new suit was already at work, melting the encasing ice. He reached for the Force withing him, vibrating his leg to break away.


    But Captain Cold took no chance, firing his Cold gun to encase Flash in ice. Yet at the nick of time, Flash unbound from his chains, His figured blurred as he appeared a few feet away from the rough, steam rising from his suit.


    ***


    The Rogues regrouped, ready for another dance.


    Captain Cold''s cold gun charged up. Heatwaves was already spewing fire toward the surrounding building, Trickster juggled his gadgets and Weather Wizard summoned swirling cloud above them.


    "You got you cornered, Flash," Trickster taunted, smiling giddily. "Why don''t you just give up?"


    Flash could only frown, not at Tricksters remark but at the meter indicating his low energy. Even as the fastest man alive, he had forgotten to get his breakfast. He was always running.


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    Without warning, Heatwave staggered. His flames shooting erratically from his flamethrower, hitting Trickster''s feet. causing him to yelp and hop out of the way. Heatwave''s body stiffened, his movements mechanical and unnatural before he leaned forwards, going limp.


    "Heatwave, what the hell are you doing?!" Captain Cold barked, eyes narrowing at his partner''s erratic behavior.


    Heatwave straighten, twisting his head unnaturally, turning his face to Cold with a chilling grin that was not his own. His eyes dilated and lifeless, almost dead-like. In a low. rasping voice, he muttered.


    "Heatwave''s not here, heheheh," He giggled like an adolescent girl.


    The Rogues gulped, cold sweats forming on their backs.


    Yet before they could process what was happening, Heatwave spun his flamethrower around and unleashed a torrent of flames, not at the Flash nor the building¡ªbut at his allays.


    "Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!" Trickster yelled, jumping behind a police car as the fire singed the air above him. "Are we turning on each other now? What is this, a family reunion?!"


    Captain Cold hid behind the wall of Ice he created, while Weather Wizard used the wind to moved the fire away from him and Mirror Master escaped into the mirror dimension.


    Cold''s mind raced. This wasn''t part of the plan. His eyes flickered to the rest of the Rogues. It wasn''t a betrayal. It was something worse if he went by Heatwave''s behavior.


    Heatwave let out a sinister laughter that sent shivers down Cold''s spine. The flamethrower continued to spit fire wildly, scorching the police vehicles, melting Ice and Heating wind, forcing the Rogues to scatter. The Rogues regrouped behind the armored truck, away from the heat.


    "I don''t know what''s going on," Cold growled, his gun aimed at the Frenzied Heatwave. "But I''m ending this now."


    Just as Captain Cold fired a blast of freezing ray, Heatwave turned and met with his flamethrower. With time bought, Heatwave twisted and dodged the blast with agile movements that should have been impossible for him.


    But the Rogues were not done with their rogue member. Weather Wizard guided the lightning to hit heatwave, shocking him in place for Cold to ice him. Heatwave froze as Ice slowly crept up his body, slowly encasing him in coffin of ice.


    "Now... that was fun," Heatwave said in a voice that wasn''t his own. His eyes rolled back and slumped to the side like a stringless puppet.


    The Rogues stood still, confused and unnerved.


    "What the hell was that?" Weather Wizard asked, stepping forward cautiously, his staff crackling with electricity.


    Before anyone could respond, Trickster let out a maniacal laugh.


    "Oh, man! You guys are killing me!" He crackled, stepping out on to the open with a wide grin plastered on his face.


    Cold turned to Trickster, his brows creasing into a frown. "What now?"


    Trickster''s attitude didn''t seem quite right. His body moved with exaggerated swagger. unnatural grave, his eyes glinting with dark mischief that wasn''t typically his. The playful menace was gone, replaced with something... Darker.


    "Trick or treat," Trickster grinned, and before cold could react, launched many of his explosive toys straight at Weather Wizard.


    The explosion knocked Weather Wizard off his feet, sending his staff clattering across the street. Trickster laughed manically, twirling around as if this was all some grand performance.


    "What the hell has gotten into everyone?!" Weather Wizard coughed, struggling to get up, only for Trickster to launch another bomb in his direction, forcing him to roll out of the way.


    Cold fired his cold gun at Trickster, freezing the ground beneath him, but Trickster jumped with an agility that didn''t belong to him, flipping mid-air and landing with unnatural precision.


    "Great, just what we needed." Cold muttered under his breath, his eyes focused on Trickster and his antics.


    Trickster danced above the car as he threw explosive at the crawling Weather Wizard, keeping him from reaching his staff. But before he could react, his legs froze. Cold walked out of his hiding, his gun aimed at Trickster. his eyes scanning the surrounding to find the root of this chaos.


    "I don''t know who you are," Cold muttered, firing his gun, icing his fellow Rogue. "But this is as far as you slide."


    "Ow," Trickster looked offended as he playfully chucked more explosive at Weather Wizard despite the ice encasing him. "Tick or treat.,,"


    Trickster was fully encased in ice, but Cold couldn''t relax as he scanned to find the Scarlet in a state of confusion. His eyes quickly moved to the ruffled up Weather wizard. Weather Wizard gazed at Cold with the same amount of distrust and doubt as he lifted his Staff, ready to attack at a moments notice.


    For a moment, there was silent as the Rogues started at each other. Then without a warning, Weather Wizard suddenly froze. His body stiffened, his staff raised to summon the storm.


    "Shit!" Cold cursed as he rolled to avoid gale and took aimed at Weather Wizard. He didn''t think twice before taking the shot.


    But Weather Wizard avoided the ray by pushing himself with the wind.


    "You''re all mine. now." He spoke in a raspy stone, summoning a blizzard. His eyes glowed faintly as he pointed his staff toward Cold.


    The very air shifted around Cold, cold winds whipping up as Weather Wizard summoned a vortex that lifted the vehicles around, ready to smash Cold to Coldpaste. Cold raised his gun defensively, but the winds pushed him around like a rag doll.


    Lightning crackled in the sky, descending chaotically as it struck everything around it. One struck close to Cold, sending debris and molten tar. Cold ducked and rolled to avoid getting charred. One for him to see a lighting reaching to him.


    Flash came in time, saving Cold just in time.


    "What''s happening?" Flash questioned as he carried Cold to safety.


    "Something''s possessing them," Cold shouted, his voice audible above the raging wind.


    Flash''s mind raced, trying to come up with a plan. Soon he did, dropping Snart a distance away from the vortex. He then immediately ran back, circling against the vortex. In a few seconds, Flash managed to create counter force to kill the Vortex.


    Cold who understood Flash''s flash of inspiration, took aim and fired his cold gun timely. Weather Wizard froze on the air. The wind stopped, the lightning ceased and everything went still with his defeat. Flash moved in time to catch the frozen Wizard.


    Captain Cold, breathing heavily, looked around. The street was eerily quiet. The Rogues were all down¡ªHeatwave, Trickster, and Weather Wizard iced by his own gun. He was the last one standing.


    "Where are you?!" Cold demanded, his shouting in indignation.


    There was a long pause, and then, from behind Cold, came a whisper¡ªa cold, spine-chilling whisper.


    "Here,"


    Cold whirled around, his heart drumming in his ear.


    *boom boom boom*


    Standing right behind him, a transparent gray figure, its singular eyes staring into Cold''s soul.


    "You," Cold whispered, his voice trembling. "What... what are you?"


    Ghostfreak floated closer, his twisted grin widening. "I''m the thing that goes bump in the night. And tonight... you''re my prey."


    Cold stumbled back, his cold gun slipping from his hand. The Ghostfreak extended its appendage, touching cold on his head, sending a shiver down his spine. The villain who was normally so composed, so calm, was frozen in pure terror.


    Ghosfreak leaned close, meeting Colds shaking eyes.


    "Boo!" He revealed the eldritch horror within the gray shell.


    Tentacles with white stripes tore out of Ghostfreak''s ethereal skin, reaching for Cold, wrapping him in their deadly grip. Cold''s heart stopped in pure terror, his brain froze, his already tense nerved snapped. Darkness overtook his vision as his body collapsed to the ground, foam forming in his mouth.


    "You and your friends were fun," Ghostfreak said, floating above Cold. "But playtime''s over."


    With a final, chilling laugh, Ghostfreak phased Cold and vanished from the sight.


    Flash who watched all this rushed to Cold''s side, despite freezing at the sight of the ghost. He checked Cold''s vital, which were low but steady, he scanned the rest to assure that they would survive. All the Rogues were down, with the exception of mirror master. A ghost took them all out and vanished.


    Flash''s day couldn''t get weirder.


    "Flash," A voice called, one that he recognized. "Fastest Man alive, yet can''t catch his breakfast."


    Zion stood with a wide smile, his hands holding the out cold Mirror Master. Flash quickly realized something¡ªthe ghost. "It was you?!"


    Zion just answered him with a wink before he throwing Mirror Master next to Cold.


    "Better is a handful of quietness than two hands full of toil and a striving after wind ¡ª Ecclesiastes 4:6."

 105 - Salt water

    The Rogues were done and down.


    Captain Cold, Heatwave, Weather Wizard, Trickster, Mirror Master¡ªall incapacitated.


    The Flash and Ten stood to the side, watching as the police loaded the defeated villains into ambulances. They would be treated for hypothermia and other traumas before being sent to Iron Heights.


    "What are you doing here with us peasants, Your Majesty?" Flash teased, acting all courteous.


    "I go by Ten, and I''m here to meet the Scarlet Speedster," Ten replied, picking up Weather Wizard''s staff and giving it a swirl.


    "Nice tech. Primitive but nice," Ten commented as the weapon vanished from his hand.


    A cop moved to apprehend Ten, but Flash quickly gestured that it was fine. The Justice League had been gaining trust and fame throughout the world, thanks to their heroics¡ªespecially with Superman being all "Super." Then there were all the things the keyboard warriors did to get attention.


    "S.T.A.R. Labs really needs to improve their security," Ten advised, his eyes lingering on Cold''s gun. "Criminals getting this kind of tech¡ªit''s dangerous for us and them."


    Flash shrugged. "The Rogues are good. They know how to get their hands on the best gear."


    "Then maybe civilians should get better weapons too," Ten mumbled, giving Flash a fright.


    "Please don''t. I already don''t have time to deal with all of this," Flash winced, thinking of the chaos it would create.


    Ten nodded, dropping the thought.


    He then turned to Flash. "Why don''t we talk somewhere more private?"


    Flash scanned the scene before giving a nod. He didn''t know why Zion was here, but he trusted that it was important.


    Gaining consensus, Zion put his finger to his mouth and whistled. An engine''s roar echoed through the street, and a sleek, futuristic bike screeched to a halt before them. Flash gave the bike an appreciative glance.


    Ten circled around before hopping on, revving the engine. He glanced over his shoulder at Flash, grinning. "Don''t be slow, Flash!" he said as his helmet materialized, then took off at blinding speed.


    Flash chuckled at the challenge, and in a blink, he was right beside him.


    Gold and red streaks blurred through the streets of Central City, weaving through traffic and dodging pedestrians. They soon reached the outskirts of the city, pulling up before a fast-food restaurant.


    Zion hopped off his bike, tapping it gently.


    "Nice ride," Flash remarked, genuinely impressed by its style and design.


    "She is, and she''s a very good girl," Ten cooed, taking out Weather Wizard''s staff and throwing it up.


    To Flash''s amusement and amazement, the bike transformed. The mechanical parts morphed, its solid frame becoming goopy before reshaping into a mechanical wolf. She jumped at Weather Wizard''s staff, catching it in her mouth before chewing on it like a toy, sparks flying as she devoured the weapon.


    "Okay, that was impressive," Flash admitted. "If I didn''t know better, I''d think you really were from outer space. Or are you?"


    "Earth, through and through," Zion answered, before pointing at the shop. "Let''s continue after we get something to eat. I''m starving."


    The two promptly got themselves some food. Zion ordered a big burrito and a smoothie, while he also ordered multiple meals for Flash, knowing he could eat like a black hole. They ate in relative peace, with only a few patrons in the shop.


    "So, you gonna tell me why you''re really here?" Flash asked, sipping the last of his milkshake.


    "I''m planning on settling in Keystone," Zion answered.


    Flash raised an eyebrow. "Keystone? Why? Mars getting boring?"


    Zion chuckled. "Mars is all fine, but it''s not home, and I''ve been there long enough. It''s time to breathe good old, polluted Earth air again. Plus, the kids need to go to school with humans."


    That last part nearly made Flash choke. "Kids?" he repeated, clearly shocked.


    Zion pulled a polaroid picture from his coat and extended it to Flash. "Had to go to hell and back for this."


    Flash''s eyes widened as he looked at the photo.


    It showed Zion holding two young girls by the scruff of their necks. One, dressed in a purple robe, cradled a cat and looked bored. The younger girl hissed like a wild animal, clearly not happy about being held. In the background, Flash noticed familiar faces: Victor Fries with a blonde woman, Harley Quinn dragging Poison Ivy, a towering woman in casual wear with a man in a funky outfit, and a boy flashing a peace sign on a hoverboard.


    Flash handed the picture back, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "A lively bunch. You did good, kid."


    Flash didn''t ask much more about the kids because he trusted Zion to not do anything shady. The picture gave him enough proof that they were fine with him. Of course, he couldn''t just make Zion give up the children without involving Superman. Maybe he''d inform him later.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    Zion''s expression softened, a genuine smile forming. "Thanks, Flash. But that''s why I''m here. I need you to watch out for them."


    Flash tilted his head. "Me? But why not Gotham? You''ve practically got that city under surveillance 24/7."


    Zion shook his head. "Gotham''s still... Gotham. It''s not the right place for them. Not yet. I want them to experience something normal. But I also need to know that if anything happens, someone will be there. And who better than the fastest man alive?"


    Flash smiled. "I''ve got their backs. Uncle Red, at your service."


    Zion chuckled at the nickname.


    "There''s one more thing," he said, pulling out a card. "Give this to the Rogues. Tell them I''m offering them a legal job. If they''re willing to stay in jail for a year, they can join a metahuman task force under my employ."


    Flash took the card, his expression thoughtful. "I''ll let them know. Thanks for the offer."


    "Thank you, Barry," Zion replied, nodding in appreciation.


    As Zion stood to leave, Flash followed. Ship was already back in her bike form when they exited.


    "Oh, and Flash," Zion called as he revved the bike. "


    It is in vain that you rise up early


    and go late to rest,


    eating the bread of anxious toil;


    for he gives to his beloved sleep.


    ¡ªPsalm 127:2 ."


    Flash froze at his words. "What?" {My readers}


    ***


    Zion left Flash unanswered as he sped toward Metropolis.


    "Ship, connect to Metropolis," he commanded.


    The frequency in his helmet switched before it connected to Metropolis news, just in time for a news flash.


    [Metropolis is on high alert as reports flood in of a major incident involving LexCorp!]


    [A gang armed with highly advanced technology is currently targeting LexCorp''s vault, posing a significant threat to the city''s financial and tech sector. The tech being used by the gang is reportedly far more advanced than anything law enforcement or LexCorp security have encountered before.]


    [They are now in a confrontation with Supergirl, with no sight of Superman. The battle seems to be in Supergirl''s favor, yet the collateral damage is intense.]


    Zion smirked at the image of Supergirl battling power-suited criminals.


    "Bright day, Metropolis."


    He cut the connection before pushing the bike to full speed, accelerating towards the center of the chaos.


    ***


    Deep beneath the ocean''s surface, where the sun did not shine nor its light penetrate, and the weight of the world pressed down relentlessly.


    At the bottom of the abyss stood a dark monolith, lit only by bioluminescent algae. The prison of Atlantis, known as the Abyssal Vault, housed those who had threatened the peace of Atlantis or trespassed into its sacred waters. It was the bastion for the realm''s most dangerous criminals.


    A man in his late twenties, blond hair and carrying a trident, stood in front of the vault, unaffected by the pressure of the deep. The reinforced metal door slid open with a soft hiss, yet the water did not flood through. His face was solemn as he peered inside, the faint glow of bioluminescent orbs casting eerie shadows on the sediment-covered walls.


    At the center of the dimly lit cell knelt a man bound by chains¡ªDavid Hyde, better known as Black Manta, captured in an air pocket that kept him alive. His imposing figure bore scars, his eyes fierce as he stared at the man before him. A land-dweller, imprisoned for trespassing into Atlantean waters.


    "Prince Orm," Manta growled, his voice filled with venom. "To what do I owe the pleasure? Finally here to finish me off?"


    Orm Marius, Prince of Atlantis, stepped into the cell, water dripping from his armor as he breathed the air. His determined gaze settled on David. "I''m not here to punish you, Scavenger. I''m here to offer you a chance¡ªa chance at redemption."


    David''s eyes flickered with interest, though his expression remained hardened. "Redemption? From you? Atlantis doesn''t know the meaning of that word. You''re as cruel as the lands you despise."


    Orm folded his arms, his tone unwavering. "You trespassed into our kingdom, looking to plunder our resources. The laws of Atlantis are clear, and you should be grateful you''re still alive. But today, I''m willing to give you a chance to walk out of here¡ªon one condition."


    Manta''s lips curled. "And what might that be, Your Highness?"


    Orm stepped closer, his voice firm. "I want you to find a land


    -dweller, a half-Atlantean who doesn''t know his lineage. I want you to find him and bring him back¡ªbring him home."


    "And why would I help you?" David sneered, his heart burning with revenge.


    He had come to Atlantis in search of treasure, but his crew had been slaughtered by the Atlantean forces that ambushed them. He was the only one who survived, and he had been their prisoner since. Drowned in dim light and fed algae¡ªEarth''s prison food was better than this.


    Orm stood straight, his gaze looking down at David. "Because the alternative is to rot in this prison and never see the sun again."


    David''s eyes darkened, revenge burning in his chest, but he couldn''t let go of the opportunity for freedom.


    "Fine. I''ll help you," David agreed. "Where do I search for him?"


    Orm gestured to a guard, who stepped forward in full armor, holding a device resembling a suckerfish. The guard circled David and attached the device to his spine. David screamed in pain, his body writhing.


    Before he could retaliate, the guard held him down.


    "This is my guarantee that you''ll return," Orm stated firmly. "The half-Atlantean is the son of a lighthouse keeper in Amnesty Bay, Maine. I don''t have much information about him. Find him, bring him home, and you can keep your life."


    David grunted, the phantom pain still lingering.


    "What is he to you?" David questioned, wondering why the Prince of Atlantis would go to such lengths.


    Orm stared in silence for a moment before answering. "He is my brother, a prince of Atlantis. He might have lost his way on land, but the ocean is his home. He belongs to Atlantis."


    For a brief moment, Manta saw something in Orm''s eyes that gave him pause¡ªvulnerability. Orm, though a calculating prince, hadn''t expected to show warmth. But the sincerity in his words, his longing for his brother''s return, gave Manta pause. The thought of Orm being more than just cold made David reconsider. But the slaughter of his crew snuffed such thoughts.


    Orm reached into his belt and pulled out a small device¡ªa compact piece of Atlantean technology. With a flick of his wrist, it unfolded into a sleek communicator.


    "This is yours," Orm said, handing the device to Manta. "I''ll also provide you with Atlantean tech to assist you in finding my brother. Bring him back here unharmed. No more chains. No more prison."


    Manta stared at the device in his hand. The thought of betrayal flashed in his mind, but the sting in his spine reminded him of the new chains that bound him. He would find the prince''s brother... and then he would kill them both.


    Outwardly, Manta played the part of a grateful prisoner. He looked up at Orm, his expression carefully neutral. "And what happens after I find him? Should I talk him into coming back or force him? What if he doesn''t want to return?"


    Orm''s jaw clenched. "Bring him back. Atlantis is his home."


    David chuckled darkly. "I''ll find him. Not for redemption¡ªI couldn''t care less. I''ll do it for my freedom."


    Orm eyed Manta warily but nodded. "As long as you find him and bring him back, our deal stands."


    David stood up, the chains around his wrists clinking as they loosened. He stretched his arms, feeling freedom he hadn''t known in months. Orm turned to leave, but David''s voice stopped him.


    "Little Prince," David called, his tone icy. "Don''t think for a second that this changes anything between us. We still have unfinished business."


    The guard immediately struck him, forcing him to his knees. He lifted his weapon, ready to end the talker. But Orm raised his hand to stop him.


    "Land-dweller, be grateful that I have need of you," Orm said coldly before leaving.


    Manta stood with the guards, clutching the communicator in his hand. He smirked, a twisted plan already forming in his mind. With Atlantean technology now at his disposal, Manta would play along. But this wasn''t about redemption.


    This was about finishing what he had started¡ªon his own terms.

 106 - Red

    Smoke covered the skyline in the City of tomorrow,


    Destruction and desperation dominated the day.


    LexCorp tower that stood like a Giant among the skyscraper of Metropolis was up in smoke. Its defenses neutralized, its security hacked. Lex''s multi-million dollar office thrashed and the Vault ransacked by nothing but third-rated thugs in a power suit.


    Gangsters wearing advance power-suits flew around as they wreaked havoc. Firing their plasma bolts at everything. Civilians fled in every direction, their panicked cries filled the street as they scattered from the epicenter of the trouble.


    In the midst of all the destruction, Supergirl hovered above, her hair whipping in the wind, her cape billowing behind her. Her eyes blazed with Heat-vision, searing through two of the armored thugs as they tried to outmaneuver her in the air.


    Their suits glowed red as part of the heavy armor melting away. The thugs lost control of the Suit and plummeted to the ground.


    "Two down," Kara muttered as she locked on to her nearest target.


    She blasted those that were far away with Heat-vision before rushing towards her next target. The thug reacted by raising his energized fist and took a swing. Kara did not entertain as she grabbed his hand and crushed it. He screamed in pain as blood trickled through the crumbled metal. Kara didn''t care as she just palmed him towards the Lex''s building, crushing his chest plate in the process.


    Kara turned to the others, her eyes blazing, ready to take others out quickly as possible. But the gangsters weren''t ready to back down. Instead they raised their blaster. The blasters glowed red as they aimed their collective blast directly at her. With a surge of light, the blaster fired, the energy bolts slammed into her with surprising force.


    Kara braced against the attack, her arms shielding her face as she was pushed back several feet in the air. Kara felt the energy subside after a long aggravating moment, her skin stinging from the attack. In the momentary gap, she rushed forward in a blur of blue and red, closing the distance.


    The thugs change to quick fire, firing bolts of energy, trying to keep Kara away from them. Kara easily maneuvered around the volley red bolts, countering those in the distance with her heat-vision as she completely close the distance.


    Her fist met the barrels of the blaster aimed at her face, crumbling it like a tin foil before delivering a crushing uppercut to the thugs jaw, blasting him into the Lex tower.


    "Another down,"


    Kara took a breath, but suddenly she heard it¡ªA high pitch hum that grew louder with every passing second. Her ears picked up the sound before her eyes could locate its source. She turned just in time to see another thug in a power suit fitted with weird cylindrical devices on his arm, raising it towards her.


    *BOOOOM*


    Before she could react, the weapon discharged with a deafening boom, sending waves of concentrated sound straight at her. Kara''s super-hearing picked up every decibel, the chaotic symphony, the auditory input assaulting her sensitive ears like a knife. She clutched her head, eyes squeezing shut as the vibration penetrated through her skull.


    The world became a blur of noise, overwhelming her senses, pushing them out of control.


    "Argg," She groaned, her finger digging into her hair, her body curling forward. Her vision redden as she fought to stay airborne and regain control over her senses.


    Seizing this opportunity, the remaining gang members closed in, their Jet-pack roaring as it send them rushing towards her. Energy blasters flared to life, sending streams of hot plasma towards her vulnerable form.


    Kara gritted her teeth, her enhanced vision struggling to focus through the auditory assault. Each shot from their weapon hit like a hammer blow, the plasma scorching her suit and skin as she flew back, crashing through one of LexCorp''s large office Windows.


    Kara''s body skidded through the flood before she hit a concrete pillar.


    "You got no where to run, Supergirl," The man said cockily, point the sonic blaster at her.


    Kara struggle to get back on her feet, the constant barrage of sound continuing to assault her. She glared at the man, her eyes burning with rage.


    "It hurts, doesn''t it," The thug grinned, nodding toward Kara''s hand.


    Kara turned to her hand, blood trickling down from her wound. glasses edged into it. She turned back to the thug, biting her tongue, drawing blood.


    The pained dulled the sounds. Her eyes narrowed before she looked eyes with the thugs. Ignoring her ringing ears, she forced forward. She launched herself at the thug, ignoring the burning plasma blasts as she crashed into him, tearing the Sonic blaster from his hand. She crushed the device and use them as projectile to attack other thugs.


    With it the high-pitched screeching lessened, giving her a moment''s of reprieve.


    But the fight was not over,


    The other thugs pressed the attack firing pulse of concentrated energy, one managing to hit her square in the chest, sending her skidding across the floor. Another lunged at her wielding a plasma blade.


    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    Kara ducked under the blade and grabbed the thug by the arm, but her strength whined as she only manage to twist blade out of his hand. Kara quickly pulled and used him to shield from the blast before kicking him in the chest. The armored man slicked across the floor and knocked other thugs off the feet like a bowling ball.


    Another energy blasts were fired from across the room, forcing her to take cover behind a steel pillar. The remaining thugs regrouped, switching their tactics. One of them unloaded a device from another back, placing it on the floor before he began activating. The device opened, revealing coils pulsing with red energy.


    "I got to say, you supers are tough," A thug shouted, shooting the pillar. "But you all got fatal weakness and Lex... Lex knew to use them. He was good at them.


    Red light, its weakens you. Its makes you human. It make you kissable."


    *boom*


    The device released a red energy pulse. The pulse spread through the floor, coloring everything red, massing the light distort in the air. Kara didn''t know what it was, but she felt trouble.


    Kara took a deep breathe, her head still ringing from the sonic assault. But she was adapting and she was not yet done.


    Without warning, she burst into action. Garbing the plasma blade, she threw it at the device. The Plasma blade lodged itself into the device, destroying it. Kara quickly followed behind, delivering a body slam to the nearest Thug, caving the chest plate of the armor. She spun just in time to dodge another strike before grabbing them by the leg and threw them across the room.


    In the midst of the chaos, one of the thugs¡ªdesperate¡ªpowered up another sonic blaster. But this time, Kara was ready.


    She zoomed forward, her fist outstretched. She smashed the sonic blaster with one punch, sending the thug crashing to the ground in a shower of sparks.


    "You guys should really learn when to quit," Kara said, brushing the dust off her suit.


    Just when it seemed like she had the upper hand, one of the thugs fired a blast from behind. It hit her square in the back, the force sending her tumbling down the broken window.


    "Tit," Kara clicked her tongue as she fell from the high-tower.


    She quickly tried to regain her flight, but couldn''t. Her power faltered, energy from the plasma bolts weakening her. Her body was out of energy and the last blast emptied her tank. To her dismay, she was falling on the side of the shadows. Kara could only think of other ways to survive,


    But suddenly, a sound of raving engine, rushing close. Kara twisted her body, now facing ground. Her eyes widened as she saw a bike race up the building, leaving a golden trail as it rushed straight at her.


    And bafflingly, a red bulky alien with four arms rode the bike, his fanged grin reminding her of someone. He reached his hand out, grabbing her by the waist.


    "You are wasted," The alien spoke in a gruff voice, his other free arm pulling a disk from somewhere and attaching it to her back.


    The device activated with a blue glow and Kara felt a sensation similar to how a human would feel when they were injected with Adrenaline. Her solar energy peaked, her eyes glowing red as she fully charged up and then some in an instant.


    Four-Arms rode the bike up the Building, rushing past the thugs to the very end of the skyscraper. The path ended, sending them flying up the air. Kara turned to the blazing up, taking a deep refreshing breath as her eyes focused again.


    They began to fall. The bike transformed into a wolf as it landed on the ledge, leaving Four-Arms and Kara to free fall. Four-Arms reached to his hand, pulling two bolt guns in his lower arms.


    "Throw me," Four-Arms suggested as he extended his free hand.


    Kara grabbed his big hand without delay, twisting her body and throwing the massive creature at the flying thugs. Four-Arms grinned as he flew towards the Thugs. crossing his upper arms to create a forcefield.


    The thugs fired their blaster, none managing to penetrate the shield.


    Four-Arms cut the distance before opening up, his bolt guns firing at the flying thugs. His blots connected with 75% accuracy, each bolt crushing the heavy armored suits. The thugs moved, avoiding the rain of bolts.


    But one by one, thugs vanished.


    Four-Arms grabbed a retreating thug, riding him into the Lex corp. He crashed through the floor, rolling down the floor before he stood, standing before tens of armored Thugs. But as Four-Arms stood fully, he towered over the Power suit wearing thugs. He grinned, meeting the eyes of the confused thugs.


    The Thugs raised their guns firing at him. He quickly crossed his arm, creating a force field as he charged at them. The plasma bolts, again, could not penetrate his shield. One of the thugs rushed forward, his plasma sword at his hand.


    But Four-Arms met the Man at the center, his hand grabbing the plasma blade without fear. He ripped the blade from the thugs hand before he plunged it back into the thugs torso. He then lifted the man with ease before throwing him towards other and jumped to the side, dodging the flurry of Plasma bolts.


    Four-Arms shot the thugs while hiding before the crumbling pillar, his each bolt claiming a limb from the Thugs. After losing a few limbs, the thugs learned to hid, but the had over looked.


    Overlooked a very angry woman who had regained her strength.


    A figure blurred into the building, catching a man and throwing him threw twenty floor down Lex''s building. Kara levitated a feet off the floor, her cape rustling in the wind through the destroyed walls.


    Her eyes glowed red while her fist seem to glow, She was pissed beyond words. Her body began to blur as she dunked Thugs one by one through the Lex building. She was doing so to reduce damage to the surrounding buildings.


    "Leave some for me." Four-Arms shouted as he ran toward the few remaining Thugs.


    He pulled out the lodge plasma blade out the device before he threw it like a spear towards one and removed two more limbs before tussling with the remaining thug. The thug in desperation swung with his charged fist.


    But Four-Arms used the bolt gun to removed the hand before he lifted the man above his head and smashed him to the floor. Finishing the final power suited thug.


    *pew*


    A Plasma bolt hit him,


    "You.." A thug shouted, his voice heavy.


    Four-Arms turned to the lying man, his hand crushed while his other grabbed the blaster shakily. Four-Arms snorted at the man''s pathetic attempt He lifted his bolt gun and removed the hand holding the blaster.


    The man shouted, looking at his scattered arm, his blood, muscle, bone and armor scattered all around.


    Four-Arms stood still for a moment, watching the man cry in pain. But he hand no pity, he had seen the damage these thugs caused. They had killed 30 security guards in LexCorp alone. There were civilian counts, children, mothers and father.


    He switched the Bolt gun to non lethal and ended the man''s scream. He then turned to Kara who was floating to his right. His eyes looking at her with question.


    "You are taking your time," Kara commented, landing on the ground only for her to stumble forward.


    Four-Arms quickly held her up, "You are a mess," He said with a chuckled as he made a mess of her hair trying to move it away from her face.


    Kara pushed his hand away, not wanting his help. "I am fine, I need to just rest," She answer, walking toward the broken window.


    Zion transformed back, "I lift up my eyes to the mountains ¨C where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."."


    Kara turned at his words, her brows creased into a frown. "What are you talking?"


    "You need help and I am hear to help."

 107 - Transfiguration

    "? You don''t gotta feel alone ?


    ? When I got you by my side, oh my ?


    ? Baby we could lay down ?


    ? Watch the candle burn the night, so bright ?


    ? Yeah, yeah, no matter the road or the distance ?


    ? You know that home is when I am with you ?


    ? And anywhere we go, ooh ?


    ? I always feel at home, ooh ?


    ? Whenever I''m with you, my ride or die ?


    ? Yeah, you right there by my side, and you know, ooh ?


    ? Whenever I''m with you, I feel him ?


    "Will you stop singing?!" Kara pushed her words through gritted teeth. Her hands covered her ears, and her eyes glowed red, ready to burn a hole through Zion, who was seated next to her.


    "Hey, show a little appreciation for the song and the singer. It''s a good song," Zion replied, sitting in the pilot seat, flying Ship out of Earth.


    "I don''t care about the song, but your singing is like scratching a blackboard with nails. It''s sickening," Kara retorted, her brows creased in pain. "You sing like a marmot''s shriek!"


    "Hey, don''t hate my singing," Zion replied, his voice grating on Kara.


    Every time Zion opened his mouth, Kara felt like a thousand needles were stabbing into her ears. Her ears were already ringing from the Sonic Blaster, but Zion was being a pain on top of that. She already hated him talking, now she hated his singing. She was beginning to hate Zion in a new light.


    "Just shut up, dude," Kara shouted back.


    "Okay, okay, okay," Zion answered, controlling his voice to a decibel as to not harm Kara''s ears.


    Kara visibly relaxed, turning to look at Zion suspiciously. If he had the capability to change his voice, it meant that he was intentionally torturing her with his voice. However, Zion kept a straight face under Kara''s stare. He could actually control his voice pitch perfectly¡ªone of the perks he gained after evolution. But why would he display his capabilities?


    ***


    "You need help," Zion''s voice echoed in the silence as Kara stood still, her eyes glaring at him hard. Zion just shrugged off her glare and walked up to her. Standing next to her, he noticed that Kara was taller than him. If he remembered right, she was about his height.


    Is she taller? Even if his body had undergone enhancement, he still retained his dimensions. That could only mean¡ª Kara had grown. How did she grow? Is she having a second growth? Is it because she is getting the nutrients she lacked before? Is she going through puberty? Do Kryptonians even go through puberty? Can''t ask her that, can I? But she has grown tall, now she is looking down on me. Maybe I should grow a few inches, I can do that.


    Zion''s mind began to wander everywhere as he spiraled further.


    "Why would I need your help?" Kara questioned pointedly, her female instincts telling her that Zion was thinking something¡ªunethical.


    "Yes, yes, why was I here?" Zion jabbered, snapping out of his wandering thoughts. "Ah, yes. You need help, don''t you?"


    Kara huffed at his response, "As if I need your help!"


    She didn''t need his help, she never did. She could have dealt with the thugs without his help. She was just taken by surprise and their weapons were very effective against her. If she was in need of help, Kal-El would have appeared. Even if she had fallen, she would have been relatively unharmed. She turned away from Zion, ready to leave without hearing his stupid reason.


    "I know your powers have begun to fluctuate, Kara. You were already struggling to maintain control for the past few days, weeks?" Zion''s words stopped Kara, making her turn with a deadly glare.


    "Are you stalking me?"


    "No?" Zion asked sarcastically.


    "What do you know?" She inquired, her voice tinged with frustration.


    As Zion stated, her powers had been unstable for the past week. Her vision was out of focus and needed more control, having headaches from time to time. She even sneezed, turning part of the field to ice. Her senses were on overload, making her see atoms at one moment and through Earth the next. She even had trouble flying one day. Her power was acting all weird, and she didn''t even know why. She had checked herself in Kal-El''s fortress, but it revealed nothing. But Zion knew. She hadn''t even talked about it to Kal-El.


    Zion only gave her a smile as he now stood a foot away from her. He raised a finger and pushed against the "S". Kara looked like she was about to bite his hand off but didn''t move.


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    "You are in the process of Transfiguration," he gave her a little push, causing her to fall off the edge.


    Kara tried to manipulate her Magnetic Flux to halt herself, but whatever boost Zion had given her had run its course. She saw Zion jump from the edge, diving headfirst towards her.


    "I am going to kill you one day, Zion," Kara muttered.


    Zion just shrugged. "You will not, and I am trying to help." He twisted his body to face up as he brought his hand to his mouth and blew a loud whistle that caused Kara to flinch. Kara saw something black jump from the top of the skyscraper, quickly morphing into a spaceship, accelerating towards them.


    "Unlike Kal-El, you didn''t grow up under the sun," Zion left the in-between unsaid. "So, unlike him, your body just tapped into that potential later in life. You were only using it like a torch connected to a battery. But now that your body had reached its solar charge threshold, it''s adapting to your power. Evolving to a new form. Or should I say that you are charged up and now it''s time to transform."


    Zion cut the talk just in time as Ship extended its tendrils, pulling them into it. After a momentary darkness, both found themselves seated inside a highly advanced spaceship with very comfy chairs.


    "For the next few weeks, your power will grow exponentially," Zion said as he piloted Ship out of Metropolis. "Which makes you dangerous to live in a world made of glass."


    "What are you planning?" Kara asked as she sat comfortably, deciding to focus on the important matter.


    "You will be staying with me in the Castle until your powers stabilize," Zion answered shortly. "I need to run some tests and see what other powers you will gain with the enhancement of your present powers."


    "Hmm," Kara hummed in acceptance.


    "While you are at it, I think it''s better for you to train to cover your weaknesses," Zion suggested.


    "I don''t need to train," Kara refused. "I am strong enough."


    "Yeah, strong enough to punch someone into orbit, but not enough to defeat someone of equal strength or those who exploit your weaknesses," Zion remarked mockingly. "You know the key weaknesses of Kryptonians?"


    "Kryptonite, magic, and red sun radiation," Kara entertained the question with an answer. "And I''m immune to Kryptonite."


    Kal-El was very adamant about teaching her that. He didn''t want her to get caught in an unexpected situation. But she already discovered Kryptonite was nothing but a glowing rock to her. Only red radiation did anything to her, and she hadn''t had the chance to fight a mage.


    "No, you are not immune," Zion bit back. "The only reason you are immune is due to the quantum frequency the Kryptonite in this universe vibrates at differs from yours, it doesn''t even exist. Same reason you are mostly immune to magic. But not to red radiation. A human could use those to weaken you and beat you with pure skill. Take away your strength, you are just any other human who walks the street of Metropolis. A Gothamite would beat you through grit alone. Same goes for those with similar strength. Do you know how many other aliens are there that have similar powers to yours? You would be at a great disadvantage because you can''t just punch them into orbit. You are weak, Kara."


    Zion held nothing back and berated Kara by pointing out all her weaknesses. From her physical weakness to her mental one. He only stopped after Kara fully went silent.


    "God, I sound just like my dad," Zion sighed, turning on the music and switching to hyperspace jump. "You will train with my guard, Barda. I will take care of Metropolis for the next few weeks."


    "Barda?" Kara questioned.


    "One of Darkseid''s elites, leader of the Furies, finest warrior Apokolips had ever produced," Zion listed her titles.


    "Do you trust her?" Kara questioned.


    "Yes, I do," Zion answered. "I promised to turn Apokolips to dust, so everything''s fine for now. She will help you get better at fighting opponents of equal strength."


    "Hmm," Kara just hummed.


    "Orrr... you could fight me." Zion turned to her, "Of course, I will go easy on you."


    Kara didn''t answer.


    Zion turned back to driving as the Ship entered hyperspace without the slightest rustle. The song shifted to a catchy one. Zion slowly hummed and went into full singing when they arrived at Mars.


    ***


    "So this is where you live?" Black Manta muttered as he snuffed out the cigarette he was smoking and approached the lighthouse.


    Since he resurfaced on land, he had taken a day to get his things in order before hunting for his prey. It wasn''t hard to find the lighthouse with all the information the fishmen gave him. He was here for reconnaissance. Gathering


    as much information as possible before he came to confrontation. He would deliver the half-fish without its fins.


    "You can''t do this, Thomas," a shout came from inside.


    "I already told you, Doctor Shin. You can''t publish that information; it will bring trouble from not only the land but also the sea," another voice answered.


    David quickly hid and peeked inside. He saw two men, one ruffled and gritty while the other looked like a disheveled scholar wearing glasses. David sensed an opportunity and kept himself hidden, listening.


    "But it''s a great discovery, and I''ve been keeping it under wraps for decades. They''re about to shut me down, Thomas. All my hard work is about to be ruined," the man, now known as Dr. Shin, shouted in desperation.


    "Doctor Shin, I''m sorry, but we agreed to do this without outside knowledge. No one can know about Arthur''s nor Atlantis''s existence," Thomas sounded like he was caught between a rock and a hard place. "I''m sorry, but I can''t allow you to do this."


    "This can''t end like this, Thomas, not like this. In a world where we are now ruled by an alien dictator, you still fear Atlanteans? This was our chance for something greater, Thomas. We can''t let it end like this," Dr. Shin shouted, pulling on Thomas''s shirt.


    "I am sorry for this, Dr. Shin," Thomas apologized, pulling the man''s hand away from his shirt. "Please leave," he said curtly.


    "It''s a mistake, Thomas," Dr. Shin said as he stormed out and got into his car.


    David marked the number of the car as he watched it leave. A malicious smile formed on his lips as a plan took shape in his mind. He then turned and walked away from the Light house.

 108 - Training

    "Well, its... spacious."


    Kara looked around the training room, a vast white space with no observable dimensions. Even she could not see the end of it. It felt endless and oppressing.


    "This is my training room, it should be able to hand your growing powers," Zion spoke, his tone assuring. "So, don''t worry about accidentally destroying my house."


    Kara rolled her eyes, though she appreciated Zion''s help. Ever since her powers started fluctuating, she felt embarrassed, like her own abilities had turned against her, it made her fell Vulnerable. Being out of control was not something she like. Being weak was not something she liked, not ever. Her strength was her confidence, her shield, without it she felt exposed.


    "When do we start?" Kara asked, her determination burning.


    "First, we''ll have to break down those old habits of yours. Your power''s like a dam that''s about to burst. You learn to control the flood instead of letting it destroy everything in its path," Zion replied, his eyes serious.


    "Barda will your trainer for the most of it," He added, gesturing to the towering figure that emerged through the Door¡ªa woman with a presence of a warrior.


    "Welcome to Mars, Kryptonian," Barda greeted, her tone flat but respectful. "I hope you can handle the training."


    "Bring it on," Kara accepted the challenge.


    "Good," Barda replied with a slight nod, "Let''s see if you''re as strong as they say."


    Zion step back, giving the women ample space to continue. He would just stay back to keep record on Kara''s progress.


    Barda crossed her arm, her gaze scanning Kara from top to bottom. "I heard your powers have been running wild, Kryptonian," she said, her tone carrying a steely edge. "Today, we''re going to push them to their limits. But more than that, we''ll push you to your limits."


    Kara nodded, "I can handle it."


    Barda gave her a slight smirk. "I sure hope so. First lesson: don''t rely on strength alone. I''ll be targeting your speed, your reflexes¡ªeverything that''s secondary to brute force."


    With a signal, Zion activated the training field, and a low hum vibrated through the floor. Suddenly, holographic drones materialized around Kara, each one loaded with enough energy to stun her if it hit. They hovered, unblinking, weapons fixed on her.


    Kara glanced over at Barda, then back at the drones, her muscles tense. "I thought I was here to learn control."


    "You are," Zion replied, pressing a button on the tablet.


    The drones fired in unison.


    Kara''s eyes widened, but her body reacted instinctively. She dodged the first barrage, the energy bolts sizzling past her. She dipped and spun, the drones recalibrating to her every move. Yet, despite her speed, the randomness of the attack drove to a corner.


    In midst of pressure, a bolt clipped her shoulder, and she winced, feeling the sting.


    Barda watched, unimpressed. "You''re holding back, relying on instinct alone. Your body is faster than your mind¡ªfocus, or these drones will bring you down."


    Kara gritted her teeth, shifting her movements, focusing on the attacks. She was no longer simply dodging but anticipating, tracking the drones'' erratic patterns and weaving between the blasts. Her vision blurred with red as she pushed harder, her heat vision activating instinctively to intercept a few of the bolts.


    "Good," Barda nodded, her voice echoing through the chamber. "Now, let''s turn it up."


    With another press of a button, the drones began moving faster, and they didn''t just fire randomly anymore. They started synchronizing, boxing Kara in from every angle. She broke into a full sprint, her fists connecting with two drones and sending them spiraling. But for every drone she destroyed, another took its place, faster than before.


    "You''re relying on offense when you should be evading," Barda called out. "You think because you''re strong, you can smash your way out of anything. That mindset will get you killed."


    Kara frowned but adjusted, forcing herself to shift tactics. She flowed from offense to defense, avoiding instead of confronting, feeling the rhythm of the drones'' attacks and moving with it. Her breathing steadied, her moves grew controlled. She weaved between the blasts, maintaining control even as the intensity of the exercise pushed her closer to her limits.


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    "Better. Now, lesson two: managing power levels," Barda said as she gestured to Zion.


    Zion happily obeyed.


    Suddenly, Kara felt the environment shift. The bright white light that willed the room dimmed into a deep red, mimicking the red sun''s radiation.


    Kara''s knees buckled slightly as her strength waned, the energy disruption taking effect almost instantly. She had never felt this weak, not at an instant. The radiation was extremely concentrated.


    "Feel that?" Barda said, circling her. "This field will keep your powers fluctuating. You''ll be strong one minute, nearly human the next. Let''s see if you can adapt."


    The drones recalibrated again, their movements becoming erratic as they shot towards her. Kara clenched her fists, powering through the drag on her strength. She lunged for one of the drones, but her movements were sluggish. A bolt struck her side, stumbling her.


    "Adapt, Kara," Zion called from far away. "Or you''ll be down before you even know it."


    Kara clenched her jaw, forcing herself to stay focused. She couldn''t rely on brute force, not with her strength fluctuating. Her body ached from the hits she had taken, and she could feel the strain growing. But as her powers weakened, she began to shift tactics. She went to fully defensive, avoiding the blasts by a hair''s breath.


    While the bolts still struck her from occasion. Each time she felt her strength return, she pushed forward with short bursts of offense, delivering devastating blows that shattered the drones into pieces. But as soon as she felt her power waning, she withdrew, dodging and deflecting attacks with precision.


    Minutes passed quickly, and though her energy was flagging, her focus had sharpened to a fine edge. She moved with purpose, every strike and dodge calculated, her mind in sync with her body.


    Finally, the last drone fell, shattering into fragments.


    Kara stood in the center of the room, breathing heavily, her body bruised and battered but still standing. She wiped the sweat from her forehead and looked over at Barda, who was watching with a nod of approval.


    "Not bad, Kryptonian," Barda said. "Not bad at all."


    Zion stood up, clapping slowly. "That''s what I call progress. But this is only the beginning."


    Kara managed a small smile, her exhaustion momentarily forgotten. "I can take whatever you throw at me."


    "Good," Zion replied, a hint of a challenge in his voice. "Because next time, the stakes will be much higher.


    You have managed to gain control of your body quiet faster than I calculate, but don''t get all high. Its just a momentary progress. You will need to continue training to keep your skills sharp.


    But we can move to the next part, Energy channeling."


    Zion projected a hologram showing her energy path.


    "You need to control the energy you''re using without letting it take over. Instead of using all your energy and controlling your strength, you need to control your energy while maximizing your strength.


    Let the energy rise just enough to glow, but not so much that you''re blazing like a sun."


    "You have already been using the energy, now you just need to control it. Just like flying," Barda added words of advice.


    Kara closed her eyes, breathing deeply. She focused her senses inwards, feeling familiar power circulation in her body, retrained it to just below surface, steady and contained. After a moment, she opened her eyes to see the hologram indicating her oscillating stability.


    Zion gave a nod of approval, "Good enough, now let''s turn it up."


    He adjusted the controls, and the hum intensified. The area around Kara took a blue hint as energy flood into her body. Her body instinctively responded, eagerly absorbing the energy. Her muscles tensed as she let more energy flow, this time allowing it to radiate through her entire frame.


    The indicator shook violently as she struggled to contain her rising power. But her body was joyous, absorbing more energy with each passing second. Kara''s hands began to tremble slightly as the pressure built withing her, threatening to surge out of control. She felt like a balloon that about to burst.


    "Stay focused," Zion called out, his voice grounding her. "Increase the output, but keep it in control. The power is yours, it listens to you. Focus and keep it even."


    With a determined grit, Kara steadied herself, holding the power at the edge, maintaining it just under breaking point. Her eyes shone with a steady glow, as her cell slowly began their metamorphosis.


    "Perfect," Zion said, clearly impress. "Now, Let''s see how you handle moving while in control. This will push your limits, but you''ll come out of it stronger."


    He signaled Barda, who stood to the side watching, her arms crossed with a hint of approval in her sharp eyes. Barda stepped forward, her stance challenging.


    "Barda will test your stability," Zion explained. "You''re going to need to fight with this energy circulating¡ªno bursts, no going over the edge. Just keep it steady."


    Barda nodded, cracking her knuckles as she circled Kara. "Show me what you''ve got, Kryptonian."


    Kara shifted her stance, keeping the power in check as she faced Barda. Barda summoned her mace and lunged forwarded. Kara dodged the attack, feeling the energy amplify her movements, but she kept the force steady, resisting the urge to unleash everything at once.


    Barda came at her again, faster and harder, her blows calculated and precise. She pushed Kara around, always keeping her on toe while giving her room to breath. She was just warming her up for a beating.


    Kara focused on control while dodging and deflecting the blows without letting her power spike. She could feel the strain, but she kept her composure, her focus sharper than ever. She was finally using her Kryptomian brain to the full.


    Zion stayed to the side while monitoring the fight. He could see Kara''s energy spike past stability as Barda''s attacks intensified. Kara still needed more training to reign in her power. Added with the blue sun radiation, it would only get harder.


    "You can do more than this," Barda said, landing a solid kick, sending Kara tumbling. "Don''t just rely on speed and strength. Predict your opponent, counter it. Always be one step ahead."


    Barda stopped her attack, reaching her hand to help Kara up.


    Kara allowed herself a brief smile. Barda mirrored her smile. "I will turn you into the finest warrior Earth has seen."


    ""The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, Proverbs 9:10" Zion quoted from the side.


    "But you guys continue beating each other, got to pick up the girls from Martian School."


    Zion ditched,

 109 - Family meal

    "Hey, girls, how was school today?" Zion asked, turning to look at them.


    They were on their way back from Ma''aleca''andra, where Rachel and Cassandra had attended classes with the Martians. Zion had enrolled them there because he didn''t want them cooped up in the castle all the time, and Martian schooling was far from the mundane. Martians could share knowledge telepathically, making education very efficient, though Magic required repetition and hands-on learning.


    "Did S''yraa teach you well?" Zion inquired, his eyes expectant as he glanced between the two of them. "No? Not good? Did the Martians freak you out?" Zion tried to glean any information from their expressions.


    But the girls remained silent.


    "Don''t want to talk?" he questioned, only to be met with more silence.


    Zion had tried to connect with them many times, but it was no easy task. They didn''t trust him, and how could they? He''d beaten their parents and Kidnapped them from their very GOOD parents. So, he was patient. They needed time to adjust, and he had time. At least they followed his requests.


    A flicker of guilt passed through his gaze as he sighed, turning back to pilot Ship.


    Rachel and Cassandra shared a glance, both feeling a twinge of remorse. Even if Cassandra could only read his emotions superficially, Rachel felt the full weight of Zion''s disappointment and patience. Despite their past, it was clear he meant them no harm¡ªbut trust did not come easily.


    "I just hope that someday you''ll trust me enough to share," Zion''s worried voice cut through the silence, and the girls felt a wave of guilt.


    Cassandra shifted in her seat, fidgeting uncomfortably before she spoke, almost in a whisper. "Go¡­od." Her voice was barely audible and hesitant.


    Zion immediately spun around, a wide smile spreading across his face. "Good?"


    Cassandra shrank into her seat, avoiding his gaze, but nodded. "G¡­o¡­od."


    Her words were broken, like a child learning to speak, but Zion''s face lit up regardless.


    "That''s good, that''s really good," he nodded, then turned to Rachel. "And yours?"


    "Fine," Rachel mumbled, turning away to avoid his enthusiasm.


    "Progress, progress," Zion muttered to himself, turning back to the controls.


    Ship seemed to pick up on his excitement, increasing speed without a single rattle, and they arrived at the castle within seconds. The girls'' eyes widened, surprised at the swift ride, realizing he''d taken it slow on the way out.


    Ship landed on the pad and opened her door, allowing everyone to step out. She changed back into her wolf form once everyone was out, trotting alongside Zion as he walked ahead.


    "Go freshen up. We''ve got a guest," Zion called back as he tossed Ship a random gadget to chew on.


    He watched the girls'' expressions sored slightly at the word ''guests''. He smiled to himself, turning to head inside.


    ***


    "You''re learning fast," Barda praised Kara, who knelt before her, exhausted.


    Kara looked like she''d been put through a grinder and spat back out. Her hair was disheveled, bruises marred her skin, and her suit was torn in places. Smudges of dried blood clung to her wrists.


    Red light flickered across the room as drones hovered, suspended mid-air.


    Barda didn''t look much better. Her helmet was cracked, her armor bore dents and tears, and her mace was slightly bent. Her spear lay broken in half beside her and her shield filled with fist shaped dents.


    They''d fought in a grueling match, with the room''s settings rigged to give Barda the advantage. But Kara had risen to the challenge, learning Barda''s techniques and using them to her own advantage. She''d tapped into her strength, carefully channeling her energy without letting it spiral out of control.


    In a sense, Kara was a natural-born fighter, an untapped prodigy. But she still lacked the instinct that only came from life-or-death battles. She couldn''t yet distinguish traps from opportunities. With a few more sessions, she would be ready for actual combat.


    "Owwwww!" Zion''s surprised voice interrupted their thoughts.


    He looked around at the craters that marred the training room. Although it was designed to withstand atomic blasts, the floor and walls had caved like they''d been struck by a meteor shower. Zion activated the room''s recovery function, watching as the craters filled and the space reverted to normal.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    "You two really went all out," he commented, noting the broken weapons scattered about. "Barda, get those fixed and freshen up¡ªwe''re having lunch together."


    "The kids are back?" Barda asked, gathering her damaged weapons.


    "Yeah," Zion answered, excitement in his voice. "Cass spoke. Just one word, but she spoke. And Rachel''s still reserved, but she at least responded."


    Barda couldn''t help but smile. Zion had told her about the kids'' past, and she knew they deserved a fresh start.


    "Glad to hear it. I''ll round up the others," Barda said, stepping through a door that opened next to her.


    Zion turned to Kara. "You look like a mess."


    Kara shook her head, combing her fingers through her hair. "Relieved, actually."


    "Enjoy the fight?"


    "On Earth, I feel like I''m living in a glass box. Everything''s fragile, nothing hurts me but I could break them at a moment of carelessness. I can''t even exert myself properly, let alone get tired. I was very unstimulating."


    She looked at her bruised arms and smiled. "But fighting with Barda feels real."


    Zion watched her, noticing the relief on her face. "Well, why don''t you wash up and change?" he suggested, opening a door.


    Kara nodded, following him as he led her to a room he''d prepared in advance.


    "If you need anything, just ask. Zai will guide you to the dining room."


    Kara took a shower and found comfortable clothes in the wardrobe. She hung her battle-worn suit on a hanger and followed the floating signs leading her to the dining hall. By the time she arrived, the others were already seated.


    Zion sat at the head of the table, Rachel and Cassandra at his right. One of the girls wore a purple cloak while the other wore a black hoodie. Across from them sat a blonde woman and a man with blue-toned skin. To Zion''s left were a woman with green skin and fiery red hair, and another blonde with red and blue streaks in her hair. Barda and a man with short black hair and a trimmed beard sat nearby.


    Kara recognized a few of them from the rogues in Gotham but didn''t comment. She took a seat at the other end of the table, her stomach growling at the sight of the steaming dishes in front of her. She actually felt hungry!


    "Everyone, this is Kara," Zion introduced. "She''ll be staying with us for a while. Please make her feel welcome." He gave a pointed look at Harley Quinn.


    "Now, let us pray," Zion said, clasping his hands together. "Our Father in heaven, Creator of the universe. Hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on Earth as it is in heaven.


    Oh Lord, forgive us our transgressions, as we forgive those who transgress against us. Thank you for the day, oh Lord, Thank you for the food. As you have said, ''The young lions suffer want and hunger, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.''


    Today, we come unto you¡ªbless us with your Holy Spirit. Guide us not into temptation and deliver us from the evil one. Amen."


    "Amen," Harley chimed in while the rest remained silent.


    "Let''s eat," Zion said, serving Rachel and Cassandra before passing the dishes around.


    As the food made its way around the table, conversation flowed, stories and laughter filling the room. Zion shared updates on the girls'' progress in school, which everyone encouraged. Kara couldn''t help but be drawn in, the warm atmosphere infectious.


    Harley was especially curious about Kara, flashing her usual mischievous grin.


    "Aww, you brought your girl to the family dinner," Harley teased, twirling her hair while leaning against Ivy. "Your moms must Accepts, time for you to pop the cherry."


    "Harley, please eat without talking," Zion sighed, before turning to Kara. "I think it''s time we checked up on you before Barda here beats you up again."


    "Fine," Kara replied, eager to focus on food before here. She just wanted to dig into her meal and enjoy it.


    Harley kept up her jabs throughout the meal, until Ivy finally silenced her with a bite of food. The rest of the meal continued in relative peace, with Zion checking in on Fries about his experiments, asking Nora about her health, and reminding Scott to schedule therapy sessions with the Martians for Barda. Apokolips'' scars ran deep.


    Afterward, Zion handed out homework to the girls, much to their dismay. He dangled a trip to Earth as motivation, though, so they got to work.


    With the girls occupied, Zion led Kara to the examination room for a full assessment.


    ***


    "To fully understand what''s happening with your powers, we need to examine any physical or energy-based changes," Zion said, scrolling through data on his tablet. Kara wore a skintight suit equipped with various sensors.


    She sighed, crossing her arms. "Fine, just make it quick."


    She stepped onto a circular platform at the center of the room. The machinery around her hummed to life, scanning her body with a soft blue light. Zion''s fingers moved over his tablet, pulling up multiple holographic displays showing Kara''s internal structure, energy levels, muscle density, cellular composition, and more.


    Zion''s eyes focused intently on the screen, his expression unreadable. After a moment, he looked up, a slight frown creasing his brow.


    "Kara," he began seriously. "You''re the bomb!"


    "What?!" Kara asked, alarmed.


    Zion chuckled. "Nothing to worry about, just that your energy levels are off the charts. You''re basically over the overcharged. Any idea why?"


    Kara searched for an explanation. "Because you made me train while absorbing solar radiation?"


    "No, not just that," he replied elusively before resuming a clinical tone. "Normally, you''d release the excess energy in bursts, like going supernova. But due to your delayed exposure to the sun and the sudden energy surge, your cells are undergoing something different. A fundamental change."


    Kara''s eyes narrowed. "So, what does that mean?"


    "It means your powers aren''t just growing¡ªthey''re evolving," Zion replied, a hint of excitement in his voice. "Your energy absorption, storage, and output have all adapted to a new level. You''re entering a Kryptonian metamorphosis."


    Kara looked at the screen, trying to process what this meant. "And is that¡­ dangerous?"


    "Not necessarily," Zion said, his tone more serious. "But it does mean your body and mind are going to be under strain for a while."


    He adjusted a hologram, revealing projections of her skeletal and muscular systems, overlaid with pulsing energy pathways.


    "These pathways are new," he explained, pointing. "They''re absorbing and distributing energy with greater precision."


    Kara listened, a spark of curiosity in her eyes. "So, I''m like a living solar battery¡­ on overdrive?"


    Zion chuckled. "Exactly. You''re evolving from a solar-charged potato to a highly refined energy conduit. But if you don''t learn to control these fluctuations, you''ll burn out before you reach full potential."


    "So, what''s your plan for handling it?" Kara asked bluntly.


    "Fighting!" Zion said enthusiastically. "You''re going to keep training to channel your energy, but this time, with control as your focus. Just like body builder train their muscles. It''s not just about raw power anymore¡ªit''s about mastery."


    Kara crossed her arms. "So, just keep fighting?"


    "Exactly!"

 110 - Dark twists

    "Dr. Shin."


    The voice snapped Dr. Stephen Shin out of his scribbling. He spun around in his chair, startled and alert, clutching his pen defensively. His hand instinctively tightened around it as he adjusted his glasses, squinting into the dimly lit corners of his laboratory.


    "Who are you?" Dr. Shin demanded, his tone a mix of fear and authority. He took a cautious step back, lifting the pen like it was a weapon. "How did you get in here?"


    David Hyde, better known as Black Manta, stepped forward, his face expressionless but his posture calculated. He raised his hands in a gesture of surrender, smirking slightly as he stepped into the light.


    "Don''t worry, Doctor. I come in peace," he said calmly.


    Shin''s eyes scanned David''s face, unsure of the threat he presented but unwilling to back down. "What do you want?"


    David moved closer, his eyes wandering over the cluttered notes and images scattered across Dr. Shin''s workstation. He picked up a photograph¡ªa young, blond-haired boy swimming effortlessly in a pool, seemingly at home in the water. Instinct told David this was the boy he was looking for.


    "Is this kid the Atlantean?" he asked, cutting to the point, his voice low but unyielding.


    Dr. Shin''s expression shifted. He gripped his pen tighter, though now more from anxiety than defense. "You¡­ you know about Atlantis?" His voice carried a faint glimmer of hope, tempered by curiosity and fear.


    David pocketed the photo, turning to the doctor with a calculated smile. "Let''s just say I have extensive knowledge, Doctor."


    Dr. Shin''s demeanor changed at that, his fear momentarily replaced with excitement. He clasped his hands together, a small smile breaking through. "This is amazing, absolutely amazing. Please, tell me what you know! Atlantis¡­ it''s real, isn''t it?"


    David watched Shin''s enthusiasm with mild amusement, taking a step closer to gauge his reaction. "Maybe, Doctor, but it''s a two-way street. You help me, and I''ll help you."


    Dr. Shin hesitated, curiosity warring with caution. "What exactly do you want to know?"


    "Tell me about the Atlantean you worked with," David said, his tone cryptic yet insistent.


    Dr. Shin''s face fell slightly, and he took a cautious step back. "Arthur? What do you want with him?"


    David''s expression hardened, though his voice remained casual. "Let''s just say I''m here on business."


    Dr. Shin''s mind raced as he looked at David, piecing together the intent behind his words. David Hyde was here for Arthur, of that much he was certain. But something darker lingered beneath the surface. Dr. Shin could see it in the cold gleam of David''s eyes.


    After a beat, Dr. Shin lowered his pen, his eyes darting between David and the photo in his pocket. "And what do I get out of this¡­ business?"


    David''s smirk grew colder, a hint of amusement in his gaze. "Help me bring the fish out of water, Doctor, and you''ll have all the answers you''re looking for."


    Dr. Shin didn''t know it yet, but the information he''d divulged would become the catalyst for chaos. David left the doctor''s lab with a secure file tucked under his arm, a twisted sense of satisfaction fueling his next moves.


    That night, David sat in the darkness of an abandoned dockside warehouse, watching the screen of his tablet flicker to life. The stolen file''s title read Project: Atlantis, and in bold letters, in it was the data Dr. Shin had collected about Arthur Curry, the half-human and half-Atlantean¡ªthe link that David intended to exploit.


    With the data in hand, he drafted a plan to make Atlantis collide with his own in ways that neither Atlantis nor humanity could ignore.


    It started with a single, well-crafted leak.


    Across the internet, conspiracy forums, and underground news outlets, images and excerpts from Dr. Shin''s research began to appear, suggesting that a powerful Atlantean hybrid lived among the surface dwellers. The messages were shrouded in sensationalized language, hinting at a hidden race preparing to rise from the ocean''s depths.


    .


    .


    .


    The lighthouse, once a peaceful beacon on the coast of Amnesty Bay, became a symbol of what the online whispers called The Atlantean Invasion.


    Days passed, and whispers turned to roars. Crowds started to gather near the lighthouse, brandishing signs and demanding answers. There had already seen aliens and monsters, they did not another mystery among them.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    News outlets covered the escalating tensions, splashing images of the peaceful coastal town alongside headlines that read, "Is This the Home of a Hidden Atlantean?"


    Arthur''s father, Thomas Curry, stood his ground, trying to protect his home from curious onlookers and protesters alike. But the crowds only grew, their voices louder, fueled by misinformation and suspicion.


    Miles away, in the shadow of his hideout, David watched it all unfold. But this was only the first step. He intended to not only expose Arthur but to ignite a full-scale war between Atlantis and humanity. David''s plan would be simple yet devastating: to create attacks that would make both sides believe they were under siege from the other.


    In which, Atlantis would pay the price for his capture.


    ...


    That night, David infiltrated a coastal military base just outside Amnesty Bay. He wore an Atlantean disguise, armor and weapons provided by Orm himself, and moved with practiced stealth, bypassing security and slipping through the compound undetected. Inside, he wreaked havoc, using advanced technology to disable critical systems and lay waste to infrastructure. Explosions shook the base, and David scrawled the mark of Atlantis onto the wreckage, ensuring that anyone who found the remains would see it as an Atlantean strike.


    Soldiers scrambled as the destruction spread, their voices laced with panic. David left the base in ruins, watching the fires burn before retreating into the shadows, a malicious smile curling his lips.


    The next morning, headlines blared with news of the "Atlantean Attack on U.S. Soil." The military, already on edge, interpreted the event as an act of war, and their response was swift. They prepared a fleet of submarines, each armed with nuclear warheads, and sent them toward the presumed location of the underwater kingdom.


    David watched with satisfaction as the humans took the bait. In a single night, he had set the stage for war¡ªa war that would not end until Atlantis had paid the price for their ignorance.


    .


    .


    .


    The roar of the ocean was all Thomas Curry could hear from his lighthouse window, its steady crash against the rocks usually bringing peace, but tonight it held a foreboding weight.


    Inside, Thomas and his son Arthur shared a quiet dinner, both tense from the last few weeks. The rumors about Atlantis, the unsettling whispers of Arthur''s supposed origin, and the mysterious protesters and journalists who had begun gathering near their home had made life in Amnesty Bay increasingly fraught.


    As Arthur gathered the plates, the noise of helicopters suddenly tore through the night sky, floodlights from multiple choppers blasting through the windows and illuminating every corner of their modest home.


    "Arthur, get down!" Thomas shouted, grabbing his son''s arm and pulling him to the floor as rounds of gunfire shattered the peaceful haven. Bullets ripped through the walls, glass exploded into shards, and the calm of the evening dissolved into chaos.


    Outside, a small army of armed soldiers advanced, outfitted in tactical gear and armed with high-powered rifles, moving with calculated precision and intent. They fanned out, surrounding the lighthouse, as a voice boomed from a loudspeaker.


    "Thomas Curry! Surrender immediately and hand over the Atlantean!"


    Arthur''s gaze shot to his father, his eyes filled with confusion and fear. "Dad, what''s going on? Who are they?"


    Thomas''s face was etched with regret. "Arthur, I never wanted it to come to this. But there are things about you¡ªabout your mother¡ªthat I''ve kept hidden for too long."


    Before Thomas could say more, the soldiers began their approach, rifles raised, ready to storm the lighthouse. Thomas grabbed Arthur''s shoulder, his voice intense. "You''re stronger than you know, Arthur. You have to get out of here. Find your mother, find Atlantis."


    "But Dad, I can''t just leave you here¡ª"


    "No arguments. Go!" Thomas shoved Arthur toward the back door, but just as they attempted to escape, a bullet tore through the air, striking Thomas in the shoulder. He stumbled, gasping as blood soaked his shirt.


    "Dad!" Arthur tried to hold him steady, the realization of his father''s injury sending a surge of panic through him.


    Before he could process what was happening, a new figure emerged from the darkness¡ªa man clad in advanced armor, his eyes cold and calculating, his posture exuding lethal intent. Black Manta had arrived, his armor glinting under the floodlights. Without hesitation, he raised his weapon and fired, cutting through the soldiers with ruthless efficiency, moving with the precision of a man who had no qualms about taking lives.


    As the soldiers fell back, scrambling to regroup, David closed the distance between himself and Arthur. He grabbed Arthur''s arm, his grip ironclad, his voice low and commanding. "Arthur Curry, I''m here to take you home."


    Arthur recoiled, trying to break free. "Who are you? What do you mean, ''home''?"


    "Your family in Atlantis sent me. They want you safe," David replied, his voice void of emotion as he spared a glance at Thomas, who lay bleeding on the ground, his breath coming in shallow gasps.


    "Arthur¡­" Thomas''s voice was barely a whisper, his face pale with pain. "Go¡­ find where you belong."


    Arthur hesitated, torn between the man who raised him and the stranger claiming to know his true origin. But David''s grip tightened, and he began dragging Arthur toward the shore. Arthur looked back, his heart heavy, as he saw his father slump to the floor, his eyes closing. The image seared itself into his mind, anger and sorrow intertwining within him.


    David, relentless, pulled Arthur toward the ocean''s edge. With one final look back at the life he was leaving behind, Arthur felt a rush of emotion but followed. David leaped into the water, Arthur in tow, and within moments they reached the sleek submarine hidden beneath the waves, disappearing into the deep blue, leaving the lighthouse, and Thomas Curry, behind.


    ---


    The news of the attack on the Curry residence spread like wildfire.


    Reporters flocked to Amnesty Bay, documenting the wreckage of the lighthouse and the remnants of the skirmish that had taken place. The world watched with bated breath as the story unfolded, whispers of "Atlantean interference" mingling with anger and fear.


    "They really going at it," Zion commented as he watched the News.


    He was, of course, keeping an eye on the situation. He was not interfering himself due to ''not wanting trouble''. He as a king can''t focus on some small event in the corner of the planet.


    "What''s happening, Zion?" Mark questioned as he sat on the couch, placing the popcorn he made on the table.


    Zion just shrugged, "Just another hidden kingdom revealing itself. Nothing much to be concerned."


    "Okay," Mark didn''t question further.


    He had seen all the things Zion did and was not interested in any of them. All of them looked way to dangerous and he very much like his life here. And Zion needed a place to crash when he gets bored of ruling an all.


    "Okay, lets watch the movie already."

 111 - Overboard

    *Boom*


    *Boom*


    *Boom*


    Blurs of Red and Blue collided across the air like lightning, followed by thunder that rumbled across the empty space. The very air shuddered with ripples and the ground rumbling at each collusion. Each movement a testament to their strength, carrying the weight of the world.


    *Boom*


    In the final collision, the blurs separated. The Blue stood still as Red bolted away from her.


    The red dug through the ground as he came to a halt, his gauntlets shattering to particals. His figure revealed itself, Blue-Yellow lightning crackling around him. He uncrossed his four arms, a new set forming on them. He straightened, the red armour around him re-configuring. His four eyes hidden behind a helmet could not hid his excitement.


    "You are getting better," He commented, conjuring more constructs.


    "Ha," Kara scoffed, her eyes scanning the drones that formed around the Tetramand.


    She could still feel the hundred stings on her body¡ªan aftertaste. They were as annoying as mosquitoes biting you on the back when you are focused on something. Then there is Zion, his form''s speed and strength matched hers at every exchange.


    On the other side, Fourarms felt his fists numb. With the Speed force increasing his speed and his healing, it barely allowed him to keep up with her. And the Strength force allowing him to be strong enough to fight, to match her in strength.


    If not for his unmatched preparation, Kara could turn him to mist.


    At that thought, Fourarms could only grin. Kara had grown at an exponential pace. Now even under the Red light, she retained most of her strength, making it hard for Barda to keep fighting her.


    Causing him to take the job of training Kara in a fight. However, it was an arduous task.


    Every time she punched out with full strength, he stared death in its eyes and denied it. For her fist carried the momentum of a world, about Six Septillion, and he was standing opposite it.


    At that thought, Fourarms changed his armour again and moved the Drones to strategic points around him. He could only make this fight difficult. He conjured Bolt guns to his hands as the thrustor on his back kicked to life.


    He glided to the side while he unloaded the clips while his drones moved to attack.


    Kara scanned the drones with a cautious glance, her hands moved to catch the bolts that crawled towards her. She didn''t wait around and went into hyper-speed, cutting the hundreds of drone with a heat vision and turned to Fourarms, the one creature with motion.


    Her strength was not the same as before, she was stronger and faster than she was ever before. Time crawled to a halt before her, the very shackles of gravity bound her no more. Yet here, only one person matched her wits was flying towards her with a jet-pack.


    Kara decided to entertain him by punching out with full force. The insurmountable force hit the atoms into ignition. The area she hit turned red for a moment before it exploded with the power of an Hydrogen bomb towards Fourarms.


    Fourarms quickly conjured a shield to tank the force and absorb radiation. He quickly conjured more drone to fire at Kara before dropping to the ground and Zig-Zagged towards her.


    Kara turned and twisted as she avoided the drones while snipping them back with heat-vision. Two replace the one that was destroyed while Fourarms vanished behind them. They all orbited her, their blasters charging up with enough energy to sting her.


    Kara turned to her new ability. She reached to the energy coursing through her body and pulsed it out. Her skin glowed with power as solar energy stored in her body exploded. The explosion pulsed out in a wave, destroying everything in her vicinity.


    Then without a warning, a giant fist cut through the particle effect,


    Kara quickly crossed her arms to defend as the Fist connected with her. The explosion sounded like thunder, the shock-wave departing the dust and revealing the Dinosaur. Kara only got a glimpse as her form blurred, her form ripping away from space, flying back at inhuman velocity.


    Kara quickly gathered herself, grabbing the space as it were melliable to slow her momentum. Yet, the orange dinosaur that escaped from Jurassic Park, gave her no chance.


    Covered in twin colored lighting, it was there before her. Its fist raised, ready to collide with her. Kara change her posture as she came to a halt, her hands hovering before her in a boxing stance.


    The two punched out, Kara''s fist less then the tenth of the other. As they closed in, the very air turned red, the atoms pushing against each other, the force, the pressure causing them to collide and exploded before even the fist met.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    *BOOOOOOOM*


    Smoke rose at the center as the two flew in opposite direction, smoke rising from their figure. The two, of different masses, skidded across the pristine white floor, leaving trails of destruction.


    Humongasur climbed back to his feet, his hands mangled and bloodied. Standing triumphant against the very force that ended his predecessors. He looked to the center, the small mushroom cloud at the enter.


    He waved his hand, constructing a vacuum to absorb the cloud, allowing him to see the rising figure of in the distance. Supergirl floated up from the ground, her form smoking. Humongasur willed his bones back into place, allowing the speed-force to heal him. Check to be sure and began his jog towards Kara.


    His jog turned to a full sprint, lightning crackling around his form. His form accelerating incomparable to his size.


    On the other side, Kara floated up, smoke rising from her body.


    She felt hot, as if her insides were burning. The searing heat enveloping her, her heart beating with such strength that it sounded like explosions in the sun. Her energy running wild in her body as she fought to bring it to control. Yet, they sparked like lightning, charging her very cells.


    She had absorbed it, both radiation and the mysterious force Zion had used at the instance of their collision. She had learn to discharge her energy, yet the force was like a parasite that bound to her. It was trying to fuse with her, feed on her.


    She turned her eyes to the charging Dinosaur, rage filling her. She was angry, more than before so. She had come to like this place, a place for the displaced, each never ever belonging anywhere. Form a lunatic to an (Escapist). She hated that she had grown to like them. The women who treated her like one of them, the girls who treat her with kindness as if she was one of them. The kind eyes that accepted her as on of the misfits and the fact nothing broke at her annoyance, not the sounds that rung in her head.


    Yet she hated the guy that provided it for her.


    He looked at her with something in his eyes, something that he held back. He acted all cocky, full of confidence, like everything was as he planned. Yet, every time their eyes met, she found something in his eyes she could not understand.


    She hated it.


    Kara raised her fist, blue lightning curling around her like a snake, striking up from the very ground. Kara''s blue eyes turned red, her arms glowed with heat that it melted her dress.


    Zion saw the changes in Kara, his eyes showing urgency.


    He could immediately sense the imbalance in Kara''s emotion through destiny. One of the few problems that he was trying to solve. But decades on solitary and emotional trauma is not solved easily.


    Second was the Strength force, this cosmic force was volatile. It is still mostly unknown with rage issues. He was using it by conducting it through Omnitrix, basically as a plug in. However, Kara represent a perfect host to it and it doesn''t sound good for him.


    With another flash, his form changed from gigantuan dinosaur to a creature with purple rock like body with porting spike on magenta on his body. His hands and horns were made of the same material while his singular green eyes looked forward with caution.


    "Chromastone!!!" He announced his name. (OG)


    "Forgive me, Kara," Chromastone apologized. "This is really going to hurt me more than you."


    And immediately duck to the side, avoiding a blast of energy. He turned to Kara and her glowing fist. Did she just shoot eldritch blast from her hand?


    "Okay, we are in the BS phase of the Kryptonians," Chromastone could only lament, increasing his flight speed. "ZAI, cut the link to this space."


    He did not need recieve an answered as he felt the connection between him and the forces seiver. Instantly plummeting his speed and strength, so did Kara''s buy a percentage. And she still looked very angry.


    Choromastone channeled his energy, ready for contact.


    Kara moved, her figure blurring and appearing next to him in a moment. She punched out, her burning fist colliding with the shield he erected in urgency. The shield broke at the moment of contact, absorbing the force, allowing him to avoid the second.


    "Can we talk this out?" he asked, only to receive as punch to the chest that sent him flying. "Still angry?" He asked as the cracks on his body fixed, only to receive another punch that sent him flying in another direction.


    For the next few second, Chromastone could only catch the glimpse before he was sent flying. He became a volley ball as Kara smacked him in all directions, his crystals cracking with each hit.


    *BOOOM*


    His body finally touched the earth, burying him in a crater, followed by heat-vision at full power burying him deeper. Followed by Kara drop kicking him and continued a beat down. Chromastone did not take it laying down. He was. Chromastone didn''t hit back and absorbed the energy punch by punch.


    "Okay, can you please calm down?" Chromastone asked him. "I know that you are angry, but I would like you to stop now."


    But Kara was not listening, she kept punching Chromastone until she tired out. Her punches slowed down bit by bit as tiredness took over her. Kara punches slowed down to a holt, her figure sitting on top his figure.


    "You calm now?" He questioned, looked at Kara, cracks running through his body.


    "Ha ha ha," Kara''s heavy breath were only his answer.


    "Okay," Chromastone nodded before he released all his energy in a concentrated blast at her face, throwing her off the crater. "It hurt and I am a silicon based lifeform."


    Chromastone staggered up, dusting himself as his body finally got the break to heal. He was fine with her taking out her anger, but he was not going to take it lying down. He slowly floated out of the crater and saw Kara laying on the ground.


    "You really need to talk it out mate," He commented as he squatted next to her and met her open eyes. "You ready to talk?...No?" He laid his hand on her head and added more energy.


    Kara reacted, but did not slap his hand away. She just turned to him, and stared at his one eye. Trying to find something in them.


    "Why do you help me? Or anyone? Or this universe?" She questioned.


    "Because I am good person," He answered, transforming back to human.


    Kara just narrowed her eyes. "You are not a good person, not in any standard. You tell the truth but its not the whole truth. You have a kind smile, but its superficial. When you look at everyone around you, its like you are watching them from a different plane, as if you have no connection to them. And when you look at me... Its weird."


    "Law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature." (Romans 7: 14 -17)


    "Ha," Kara just scoffed. "Answer me straight."


    "If I maybe bold," He leaned forward and answered with his lips

 112 - Vengeful

    The deep sea whispered in the dark, cold, endless water.


    A submarine swam with the stream, carrying David Hyde and Arthur Curry, with the mission to deliver him to Atlantis.


    Arthur gazed out of the vessel''s reinforced Window, watching the swirling, shadowed abyss stretched out before him, vast and oppressive. The quiet and haunting beauty of the ocean''s depth barely registered to him, his thoughts returning again and again to his father ''s lifeless face, the shattered remains of their home, and the strange man¡ªDavid Hyde¡ªwho had seized him and brought him here.


    "We''re approaching Atlantis," David''s voice interrupted Arthur''s thoughts, his tone as cold as the ocean around them. He sat at the cockpit, his eyes gazing into the deep darkness. His other hand resting naturally on his holster naturally.


    Arthur eyed him warily, his fist clenching as he remembered the blood on David''s hands. "Who are you, exactly? And Why am I supposed to trust anything you say?"


    Daivid turned to him, his eyes hard and cold. "Trust?" He let out a low humorless chuckle. "I''m not here for your trust, Curry. I am here to finish a job, nothing more. My orders were to bring you to Atlantis... so that''s what I''m doing. If I were you. I''d save the question for your Family down there."


    Arthur''s jaw tightened as David''s words struck a raw nerve. He wanted answers, but it seemed he wouldn''t get them from this man. Silence fell between them, heavy with unspoken resentment and questions that had no easy answers.


    The vessel continued its descent, weaving through dense underwater canyons and ancient coral reefs until they reached the outer boundary of Atlantis. Massive columns and statues loomed from the ocean floor, each carved with symbols of the old Atlantean pantheon, their expression frozen in stern vigilance.


    The vessel soon docked near one the statues. "This is your stop, Curry. And my last duty as a... guest of Atlantis," His fingers tapping on the communication device


    Outside the submarine, another vessel, larger, slowly revealed itself from the depth. The vessel an atlantean marvel, slowly opened its mouth and swallowed the smaller ship. Arthur looked out the window in hurry and panic, watching as the water drained, granting him to see the armored Atlantean.


    The hatch opened with a soft hiss, allowing Arthur to step onto the splendor of Atlantis. The ship, designed like a whale, the glowing crystal arranged like scale illuminated the metallic platform.


    But before he could fully take in the sight, Orm appeared, flanked by guards of elite Atlantean soldiers. His gaze fixed on Arthur, assessing him with a curious gaze. This was the first time he had came to contact with the other. Yet he walked forward with joy, giving Arthur a brief hug.


    "Arthur, My brother," He addressed with warmth, "Welcome to Atlantis... your true home."


    Arthur stiffened at the word ''Home'', a flash of resentment flickering across his face. "I already had a home... on the surface, with my father."


    "..." Orm stayed silent at the answer, understanding. He had expected this reaction, after all his brother had been denied of his heritage.


    He turned to David and then to the guard, signaling him to deactivate the leash. The Atlantean guards kept a wary eye on David, fully aware of the volatility he represented. But his indifference and pride as an Atlantean made it insignificant.


    "Your brother is delivered, as requested," David announced, his voice edge with a mocking tone. "But there''s something you should know, Prince Orm."


    Orm narrowed his eyes, "Speak."


    David''s expression turned serious. "The military attacked your brothers home. They killed his father." He paused, letting his words sink in. "They found out he was an Atlantean and attacked his home in fear."


    Orm''s face tightened, anger flashing in his storm-gray eyes. "How did they know of him?"


    David shrugged uncareingly, "Don''t know, don''t care. You asked to bring your brother and I brought him. My works done."


    Orm turned to Arthur, a new understanding taking root, and his voice held a barely restrained fury. "They attacked you, a prince of atlantis, out of ignorance and fear?"


    Arthur''s hands balled into fists, his gaze hardening as he met Orm''s intense stare. "My father died because of me. Because people believed I was some¡­ some threat. They thought they were stopping an invasion. But that doesn''t mean we have to stoop to their level."


    Orm''s expression grew cold, his voice sharp with indignation. "And what would you have us do? Sit by while they kill our people? You think they''ll stop with one life? Atlantis has hidden long enough. Perhaps it''s time they learn to fear the oceans."


    Arthur opened his mouth to protest, "Taking an eye for an eye will leave everyone blind."


    "I... Fine," Orm relented, for now. "Let us home, there is someone you need to meet. Perhaps she can make you understand the gravity of the world we live in. Come now."


    With a tense nod, Arthur followed, leaving David to his devices. The massive ship spat the small submarine and swam towards the depth of the Atlantean kingdom. Arthur stood on the deck as he watched Atlantis reveal itself, like the hidden gem of the ocean.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Crystalline structures rose like mountains from the ocean bed, each one glowing faintly with bioluminescent algae that blanketed the buildings in a soft, otherworldly glow. Fish darted among the towers, and larger marine life floated serenely past, their bodies glinting like polished gemstones under the soft lights of Atlantis.


    Arthur couldn''t help but feel a strange pull in his chest as he looked at the city around him, its beauty laced with an unfamiliar sense of longing.


    The ship docked itself next to the Castle and Orm led Arthur through the gleaming corridor. The walls were lined with murals depicting ancient battles and the rise and fall of Atlantis, each stroke a testament to the power and legacy of his ancestors.


    Finally, they reached an ornate door guarded by two formidable warriors who stepped aside with a slight bow as Orm pushed the doors open.


    The room was bathed in soft, shimmering light, and at the far end, standing with an air of quiet grace, was a woman with silvery-white hair flowing like water, her ocean-blue robes clinging to her elegant form.


    She turned as they entered, her gaze falling upon Arthur, and for a moment, her composure faltered.


    "Arthur¡­" she breathed, her voice a fragile whisper, filled with awe and a sadness that seemed to stretch across years. Her eyes softened, brimming with unspoken emotion as she took a tentative step toward him. Even if years had pass, a mother always recognized her child.


    Arthur''s gaze was guarded, confusion and bitterness mixing with a deep, instinctual pull toward the woman before him. He felt a painful pang in his chest, as if the threads of his life had suddenly woven themselves into an unexpected tapestry he couldn''t yet comprehend.


    "Queen Atlana. Mother, I have brought brother home," Orm''s voice broke the silence, his tone respectful yet laced with joy. "Your son has returned to you."


    Arthur''s heart pounded in his chest as he realized who she was. "You¡­ you''re my mother?"


    Atlanna''s face softened, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "Yes, Arthur. I am. I¡­ I have waited so long to see you, to hold you. I never wanted to leave you, but¡­"


    Arthur cut her off, his voice rough with grief and anger. "But you did leave. My father raised me alone. He waited every day by the shore, looking for you. And he¡­ he died because of what I am."


    Atlanna''s face fell, and she covered her mouth, her voice breaking. "No¡­ not Thomas. This... can''t be. What happened?"


    Arthur gritted his teeth as the face of his father, his smile fading into lifelessness. "They kill him because of what I am. I was the reason he died, because of a woman who gave him a child and abandoned him"


    Atlana''s voice shook with sorrow. "I...loved him, Arthur. I loved you both. But Atlantis would not let me return. I was bound to this place, forced into a life I never chose."


    Her voice trembled, each word weighed down by sorrow and regret. "But not a single day went by when I didn''t long to come back to you. I know I failed you¡­ but please, Arthur, believe that I never forgot you."


    Arthur''s anger wavered, his gaze softening as he saw the pain etched into her face. He wanted to stay angry, to let his resentment burn away the ache in his heart, but seeing her now, he felt a mixture of emotions too complex to untangle.


    "I waited for you too," he said quietly, his voice filled with the lingering echoes of childhood hurt. "Every night. I thought maybe one day you''d come home."


    Atlanna stepped forward, her hand reaching up to cup his face, her touch warm and gentle. "I am here now, Arthur. And I will never leave you again."


    They stood there, a fragile reunion mending years of separation and sorrow, while Orm watched, his jaw tight with simmering anger about the injustice done to his brother and Atlantis.


    Finally, Arthur stepped back, his gaze shifting to Orm. "And what happens now?"


    Orm''s eyes blazed with fury as he looked at Arthur, his voice low and seething. "Now, we make the humans pay for what they''ve done. They attacked you¡ªour prince¡ªand murdered our family. We cannot ignore this."


    Atlana''s eyes widened in alarm, her voice pleading as she spoke. "Orm, no. We must not bring war to the surface. Violence will only bring more suffering, more loss."


    Orm''s gaze remained unwavering, his voice icy. "They declared war the moment they spilled Atlantean blood. We cannot allow their barbarism to go unpunished. They poisoned our land and threw their excretion into our homes. How many of our people, children have suffered because of them. This can go no longer, mother."


    Arthur, his voice weary yet resolute, spoke up. "There has to be another way. We don''t have to turn this into a bloodbath. I know what they did was wrong, but retaliation will only prove their fears right."


    But Orm''s resolve was set, his voice steely with conviction. "Mother, you may rule in peace, but if you do not act, Atlantis will fall. Our enemies will continue to hunt us, driving us further into hiding until there is nothing left. I will not let that happen."


    Without waiting for permission, he turned and stormed out of the chamber, his mind racing with plans. The whispers of vengeance echoed in his ears, a poisonous mantra feeding his rage.


    "Orm," Atlana called, but it fell on deaf ears. "That child, his angered by injustice done to our people, but we can''t walk the path of destruction."


    She turned to Arthur, "Don''t worry about your brother. He will calm down, eventually. But we have much to catch up. Tell me all what happened."


    .


    .


    .


    Orm entered his private quarters, slamming the door shut behind him. He clenched his fists, his mind awash with visions of retribution against the humans who had dared to harm his family. He knew his mother''s reluctance would be a hindrance, but he would not let her inaction stand in his way.


    He picked up a sleek, golden communicator and activated it, his tone sharp as he contacted David Hyde.


    "Hyde," he said coldly. "I require your assistance once more."


    David''s voice crackled through the device, a hint of amusement in his tone. "Back for more, are we? What do you need, Prince Orm?"


    Orm''s expression was steely, his voice unwavering. "I need intelligence on the surface, every weakness, every vulnerability. I want to make them pay for what they''ve done."


    David''s laughter was low and dangerous. "Consider it done, for a price of course. But remember, once you open this door, there''s no going back. The surface world won''t just take this lying down. Not that I care."


    Orm''s jaw tightened, a sinister glint in his eyes. "Let them try to retaliate. We are the oceans, and we have power they cannot fathom."


    He ended the call and turned his attention to his most loyal advisors, whispering orders that would set into motion a plan both daring and ruthless. He would have Atlantis''s best warriors strike the surface where it hurt most, dismantling their defenses and forcing them to their knees.


    But he needed more than just an assault; he needed to show the surface dwellers that they had provoked the wrath of the sea itself. In secret, Orm began to coordinate with his most trusted soldiers, preparing for an all-out offensive that would strike fear into the hearts of those who dared to challenge Atlantis.


    "It is time they understand," he murmured, his voice like the rolling thunder of a coming storm. "That the ocean does not forgive."


    ----


    You have heard that it was said, ''Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth. But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. (Mathew 5: 38-39)

 113 - Gotham News

    The Camera zoomed in on the sprawling skyline of Gotham city, now brighter and cleaner than it had ever been in decades. Iconic Landmark, like Wayne tower and the recently restored Gotham Clocktower, gleamed against the afternoon sun.


    "This is Gotham Now, bringing you a special broadcast on a monumental day of the city," The polished News anchor began, her tone upbeat yet reverent. "Today marks the official reopening of Gotham City after years of turmoil and decay. Once plagued by crime and corruption, the city has undergone a transformation unlike anything seen before, all under the mysterious new ruler, Nion."


    The screen cut to the footage of Gotham''s transformation. Images of crumbling neighborhoods restored to vibrance, graffiti-riddle streets now pristine, once-abandoned building now repaired and bustling with activities, children laughing in newly renovated parks.


    The city seemed almost unrecognizable compared to its grim past.


    "For decades, Gotham has been synonymous with crime and terror," the anchor continued. "But since the new power rose to rule over our city, Gotham has undergone a complete metamorphosis. Under his rule, Gotham''s crime rate has dropped by nearly 90%."


    The camera panned to a street corner where a massive Sentinel¡ªa humanoid robot with sleek black plating¡ªstood watch over the bustling crowds. It scanned the area methodically, its presence alone ensuring order.


    "Sentinels, his state-of-the-art patrol unit, have not only enforced the law but have actively assisted in solving over 1,000 criminals cases in the past month alone. These Sentinels not only maintain order but also solve cases with precision unmatched by human authorities. Their swift and incorruptible efficiency has all but eradicated organized crime."


    The broadcast cut to interviews with Citizens.


    "The City is too clean, almost like living in a completely different city," Said one elderly woman. "Never thought I''d see the day when Gotham felt safe. My grandkids can play outside without fear."


    "I used to skip meal to afford my insulin," Said the younger man. "Now I don''t even need it. The shelter did some super-advanced thing and healed me. It is not only me, but there are other with long term illness who has been heal. For free!"


    "I was on the streets for years," a man in his 30s shared, standing near one of the new shelters. "But now I''ve got a place to stay and a chance to get back on my feet. Gotham finally cares about people like me."


    The anchor''s voice continued over the montage. "From free medical care and education to city-wide housing programs, Nion''s policies have uplifted Gotham''s poorest communities, reducing homelessness by 65%.


    The back alley''s that were once crumbling and neglected are now being renewed. School that were nothing more than cement building have gained life and hope. The education paving path for a better future, offering every child a chance at a brighter future."


    The broadcast switched to footage of children walking into a gleaming school building, their laughter carrying over the anchor''s narration.


    "Today''s reopening ceremony is more than just an event¡ªit is a declaration to the world that Gotham has risen from the ashes. A city once feared is now admired for its resilience and rebirth."


    The screen faded back to the anchor, her smile radiant. "Stay with us as we bring you live coverage of this historic day. Gotham''s mayor, influential leaders, and, of course, King Nion himself, are set to speak at today''s celebration. It''s a new day for Gotham City, and we''re here to witness it."


    ***


    "Gotham''s changed. That''s what they keep saying."


    Ray muttered, adjusting his messenger back and the high quality body cam he had brought with his saved money. He stepped out of his modest apartment in the Bowery District, once notorious for its dangers. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of freshly planted trees¡ªa stark contrast to the smog-filled streets of his childhood.


    Ray change his stream of Gotham news to his phone camera. The camera focused on his face, unshaven but earnest, with the city skyline visible behind him. His body cam showed the streets and the people walking it. One that most people from the past would struggle to recognize.


    He had been one of the few who streamed the changes in Gotham, one who showed the changes that happened in street level while the news just glorified or doubted it. It gained him a few followers and he tried to be unbiased and only show the truth.


    "But for those of us who''ve been here all our lives, the change ain''t just about numbers or news stories. It in the way the city feels," Ray spoke to his followers,


    "For everyone new, Hey Folks, I am Ray and this is Gotham_Shifts, I am here to bring you the experience of the Gotham and its changes. You''ve seen the news, the headline, but I wanna show you what it really looks like to live here now."


    He adjusted the Body cam and began his usual walk toward the community center where he volunteered. The camera showed the clean sidewalks, lined with newly planted trees and well-maintained streetlights, families strolling hand in hand and kids playing tag in the small park.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    "This used to be the Bowery, one of the worst places in Gotham." Ray explained as he walked. "You couldn''t step outta your door without worryin'' about gettin'' mugged."


    The streets he once tread with wary eyes and quick steps now felt strangely inviting. Gone were the menacing graffiti tags from gangs claiming territory; in their place were vibrant murals depicting Gotham''s resilience and hope.


    He paused to film a mural on the side of a building, depicting Gotham''s resilience¡ªa phoenix rising from the ashes, with the words Hope Lives Here painted in bold letters beneath it.


    A group of kids ran past him, laughing, as they played tag.


    Ray smiled faintly, "Used to be. You wouldn''t see kids playin'' out here. Not without lookouts for drive-bys and predators. Now? It feels like the city''s got a soul again."


    As he continued his walk, Ray narrated the changes he observed. His keen eyes picking out the subtle shifts in the city he once knew so well.


    "The air is fresher that it feel weird not to feel suffocated. The acidic stench of decay a faded memory. The tower no longer emitted smog. Wayne''s renewal energy ended them. They even helped planting trees in the sidewalks. Wayne helped before, here and there with their charity, but they are really rollin'' with the changes."


    Ray stopped next to a spotless alley, pointing his camera at it. "Back in the day, this alley? You don''t come her unless you lookin'' for trouble. Now it even got a Cafe where a drug den was," He said, gesturing to a small shop with an outdoor seating.


    He chuckled. "Coffee instead of crime. That''s somethin'' new."


    Ray took the narrow alleyway¡ª once a shortcut he would''ve avoided at all costs.


    The camera caught a glimpse of a Sentinel patrolling the area at the far end. Its imposing figure moved with mechanical precision, scanning its surrounding as people passed by without a second glance. Its imposing figure stood like a monument, placing unseen pressure on those that thought of crime.


    "Now, these guys," Ray said, focusing on the Sentinel. "They''re everywhere. At first, it was creepy, havin'' robots watchin'' your every move. Still is, but I gotta admit¡ªthey''ve done their job. Crime''s down, way down. You don''t here gunshots at night anymore. That''s something I never thought I''d say."


    Muggings, burglaries, even petty thefts were nearly nonexistent. The Sentinels didn''t just enforce the law; they preempted crime, identifying potential troublemakers before things escalated. There presence itself guarantee safety.


    "Good afternoon, Ray," the Sentinel said in bionic voice, mechanical with a human touch. "Streaming again?"


    Ray nodded back. "Afternoon to you too. And yes, today is a big day after all."


    The Sentinel gave him a humane nodded. "Please do remember to be careful."


    "I will," Ray had never thought he would be chat with a Sentient Robot like a neighbor. But he got to admit, it wasn''t all bad. Ray focused the back to the phone, his expression thoughtful.


    "This ain''t just about safety. Its the little things. The free clinics fully opened by Waynes on every block. Schools that actually teach kids somethin'' other than how to survive. Hell, they even got job programs for folks like me."


    Approaching the community center, Ray saw a group of youngster controlling homemade drones to race around the center, while a line of people waited to enter. A young woman handed out fresh meals, while a medical worker checked vitals for those in need.


    This would not have been possible in this area without attracting trouble from the gangs. They could let hope infiltrated the darkness they had created. They would end it or demand protection fee Yet before the Sentinel, they fear.


    Ray stepped into the building, greeted by the hum of activity. The camera caught the scene of life. "Place like this. They''ve got what Gotham needed. People helpin'' people."


    "Ray!" a familiar voice called.


    He turned to see Mrs. Callahan, the community center''s coordinator, waving him over. Her face was lined with years of hard living, but her smiled was warm and genuine.


    "I thought you were taking a day off to Stream the Re-opening," She said, placing a stack of books and art supplies. "But it s good that your are here. Can you help me organize this? we just got some donations."


    "On it," Ray answered to help.


    He moved to help her organized the art supplies and books before carrying them to the library. As he moved through the center, helping where he could. Ray worked the shift before he managed to step out the community center.


    "Alright, lets resume the tour of the new Gotham," He stretched, resuming his walk. This time towards the train station. "I should arrived just in time for the Re-opening ceremony to start."


    But as he walked through the transformed Gotham he couldn''t help but think. In all the changes, something still gnawed at him. Gotham was better¡ªsafer, cleaner, fairer¡ªbut at what cost? The Sentinels, while efficient, were everywhere, their watchful eyes leaving no corner unseen. The city''s vibrancy felt¡­ orchestrated, as if every detail had been meticulously designed by an unseen hand.


    "Change is good," he muttered under his breath, almost convincing himself. "Even if it don''t feel natural."


    ***


    "Thank you for livening up the city, Robin. For whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done. "


    Zion muttered, the light of flame dancing across his face. His hand held a primitive lantern, the orange flames illuminating the darkness before him. Yet, even it couldn''t illuminate everything.


    Behind him stood a boy, wearing domino mask and an advance suit with a red robing stretched across his chest. The boy wonder.


    "Its no prob, Zion. We both just want to help the city," Robin replied, even as his tone expressed confusion. "But why are we in the Sewers?"


    "For something important, the final step to exorcise Gotham''s darkness," Zion answered his eyes gazing into the shadows.


    "..."


    Zion and Robin, the unlikely duo were now diving deep into Gotham underbelly. Tunnels that interconnected like spider-webs. Following Zion, they were deeper than any living creature had bother too, One that hid the very darkest secret of the city in its very foundation.


    Due to Batman demanded presence for the reopening of the city, Zion had borrowed his side-kick for himself.


    "We are here," Zion''s soft whisper bounced off the tight walls.


    Yet as he raised his lantern, the light could not illuminate the dark wall before him, the very bricks seem to absorb light. Zion traced his finger, feeling the hard, uneven wall, his fingers glowing green with magic.


    "Open Sesame!" he muttered the magic words. (Its actually, ''Open says me'')


    With low hum like the wind through the tunnel, glyph of eerie light glowed in red light as the walls sunk into itself, revealing the path that led into the abyss.


    Robin standing beside him could not see through the veil, even with his advanced optics.


    "Carry each other''s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ"

 114 - Opening Day

    See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. Isaiah 65:17


    but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.


    At the heart of the city, in the newly refurbished Gotham Square, a massive stage stood erected. Police officers and towering Sentinels surveyed the perimeter, their presence ensuring order and security.


    The reopening ceremony had drawn an audience of thousands. Families, students, officials and journalists from all around the world. Food vendors lines the streets, and street performers entertained the waiting crowd.


    All attracted by the next big news, a new bone to chew.


    As the clock struck 3 o''Clock, the stage came alive, drawing the crowds attention. The building and the light around them dimmed as a single spotlight illuminated the center of the stage as Nion stepped forward.


    Clad in his usual sharp, black suit with subtle golden accents, his visor still masking his visage. His each step exuded confidence and authority, his distinctive presence commanded attention of everyone present.


    Behind him stood a diverse group of Gotham''s leaders. Form the Mayor, Commissioner Gordon, members of the City Council, Community representatives, all those who had worked tirelessly to rebuild the city. Those who had fought to change this god forsaken city.


    Nion adjusted the microphone, his piercing gaze sweeping over the crowd. He saw the people of Gotham who held hope for the city, those who appreciated the changes, parents who were grateful. And on the side corner some protester with banners. He couldn''t care, he was already wasting everyone''s time.


    When he spoke, his voice steady and resonant, one of authority and confidence.


    "Citizens of Gotham, What a wonderful day!" Nion began, his voice bionic and cheery, pausing to see faces of Gotham. "Today, you stand not just to reopen a city but to reclaim your identity, your hope, and your future."


    The crowd kept silent, absorbing his words that echoed through the city.


    "For decades, Gotham has been synonymous with Darkness and despair," He continued. "A city plagued by crime and corruption But that is not who you are. That is not who you will be."


    He gesture to the holographic display that came alive, which shifted to show images of Gotham''s progress. "Since I have taken control, We have fixed your streets, your homes and your lives. We''ve seen crime rates drop to an all-time low. We''ve seen schools and hospitals flourish, providing free education and healthcare for all."


    He then pointed to the line of Sentinels, the community workers who had gather, and the police forces. "We''ve established a system of order, a law that works not for the privileged but for everyone. With Sentinels, we''ve ensured safety without fear."


    Nion''s tone grew more impassioned, "But this is only the beginning. Gotham is not just a city¡ªit''s a promise. A promise of better future that no matter how far we fall, we can rise again."


    The crowd roared in agreement, their applause thunderous.


    "Today, I make this vow to each of you," Nion said, his voice raising above the clamor. "There will no longer be terror, no injustice, no discrimination in this city. This city was built for the people by the people. Today, together, we will built Gotham that is not just livable but extraordinary.


    A Gotham that your children and their children will be proud to call home.


    An Empire worthy of my Name."


    He paused, letting his words sink in.


    He looked at the skyline, as if speaking to the city itself. "Thank you for believing in me, in my help. You have fought long enough, against the darkness and despair. Let us not just reopen Gotham.


    Let me redefines it."


    ***


    The crowd below roared with applause as Nion continued his speech, standing tall on the stage of Gotham Square.


    But high above the celebrations, in the shadowy spires of Gotham, a dark person watched. Perched on a gargoyle, Batman merged with the shadow, blending with the darkness. His white eyes glowed faintly under his cowl, scanning the crowd and the stage below.


    Even the infamous Gotham''s air felt less oppressive under his gaze. Staring sharply as if to dismantle everything and unearth its very core. Full of doubt and insecurity.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.


    "Enjoying the view?"


    The very recognizable voice cause Batman to glance over his shoulder. Superman hovered a few feet away, his red cape still as if to not attract attention. The voice full of optimism and confidence, one that gave people hope could only be of Superman''s.


    "Superman," Batman greeted, his voice a low growl.


    Superman stepped down from the air, landing quietly on the ledge beside him. He crossed his arms, his eyes scanning the very clear city. One that was bright and not covered in smog even in its mornings.


    "It''s different city than the one I remember. Cleaner,"


    Batman''s cowl his deep frown, "You were suppose to keep watch on Metropolis."


    They, each one of the Justice League, were asked to keep watch in different cities. Zion gave no explanation except that it was a surprise and that they would be present. But Batman didn''t like surprised, so everyone of them were assigned a city to keep watch on.


    Superman turned his head slightly, catching the faint tension in Batman''s tone. "You''re still suspicious? After all this change."


    "It''s not the city I don''t trust," Batman''s gaze didn''t waver from the stage. "It''s him."


    Superman followed Batman''s line of sight to Nion, who was addressing the crowd.


    "You mean Nion?" Superman asked.


    Batman nodded slightly. "He is chaotic variable. He came out of nowhere and done what couldn''t in years. But he''s done it too fast, too effectively. It doesn''t feel... sustainable."


    Superman''s lips pressed into a thin line as he considered his colleague''s words. "He''s a good Kid, Batman. I''ve spoken to him. To Supergirl. She believes in what he''s doing and I trust her judgment."


    Batman''s gaze finally shifted to meet Superman''s. "Belief doesn''t make him infallible. He''s playing a dangerous game, restructuring an entire world in his vision. What happens when the cracks starts to show? What happens when people don''t like his way? When they turn against him?"


    Superman sighed, his eyes drifting back to the celebration below. "Changes always come with risk. You of all people should know. This city is its testament."


    Batman''s voice soften, but his tone still resolute. "And I know what happens when power is concentrated in one person''s hand. It corrupts. Every time."


    Superman placed a hand on Batman''s shoulder, his expression a mix of understanding and quiet determination. "That''s why we''re here, remember. To make sure he stays on the right path. And If he does, World will follow."


    Batman''s gaze returned to the crowd, his eyes narrowing as Nion gave his promise. "I''ll be watching."


    ***


    "And I have a Gift for Gotham."


    With his words, Nion''s visor lit up with emotions, (£þ¨Œ£þ), leaving the crowd puzzled. Nion exchanged glances with those that occupied the stage with him, those that were unaware of his greater plans.


    High above the Earth''s atmosphere, shimmering projectiles, crystalline in appearance, streaked through the heavens like falling stars. Their glow pierced through the atmosphere like a shooting stars, leaving iridescent trails across the skies.


    They were breathtaking beauty that captivated billions as PTSD from the Darksied war arc took effect. The citizens quickly took shelters in their home, waiting for the danger to pass. They were fooled once, not again.


    The crowd that had gathered for Nion''s speech began to murmur and point skyward. Nion kept his smiled. His Sentinels across Gotham kept at peace with the panicking citizens, assuring them of their safety.


    "Stay Calm, Gotham," Nion''s voice boomed with authority, commanding assurance. "This is my gift."


    Nion looked at the sky, he recognized the energy signatures. This was going to be one of his best works, his masterpiece. He had used Gotham''s as his experiment to level out plans for different cities. And the Sentinels won''t cut it, not when he is away.


    "Guys, Are you seeing this? Batman" Flash''s nervous voice came through the coms as he watched from Central City.


    "I am," Superman answered as he flew towards Metropolis.


    "Crystalline structure. Unknown composition," Batman answered, his mind racing. But he turned to Nion, only to meet his gaze.


    "They''re landing," Superman confirmed, his voice steady but laced with concern.


    ....


    In cities across the globe¡ªMetropolis, Central, Tokyo, Paris, Dubai, even the heart of Gotham¡ªthese crystalline pillars found their marks. But instead of the destructive impact, they landed with surprising precision and grace.


    The moment they touched the ground, they lodged themselves, merging with ground, transforming them. And they did not stop with few meters. The reached their roots deep, extending themselves into intricate networks, vines of glowing energy racing through the surrounding infrastructure.


    Concrete and Steel seemed to melt and reform,reshaping into organic yet futuristic designs. Building twisted into structures shimmering as if alive. Roads and railways reconfigured to be highly efficient. New structures raised out of the very ground.


    Within moments, entire city blocks were unrecognizable, transmuting into living cities infused with advanced Kryptonian technology. Skyscrapers no longer loomed as dead towers of concrete but pulsed with energy, their forms dynamic. These changes were a blend of advanced architecture and culture of the cities and countries, a blend of past and future.


    These cities became unrecognizable from moments ago.


    Yet, the changes weren''t universally welcomed.


    ...


    Gotham watched in stunned silence as the very ground them changed in a rate visible to the eyes.


    The dark and grey sky line turned crystal white. The towers that stood like a judging titans turned into futuristic towers colored with neon light. The iconic gargoyles of Gotham''s architecture remained, but they glowed with alien energy, becoming protectors in their own right.


    "This... this is..." Superman''s stunned mutter came through the coms.


    "Kryptonian," Batman competed, his tone grim.


    "This is the terraforming Matrix, but this technology..."


    Superman left it unsaid as he watched the very building he worked in change. Its surface crystal white, the iconic Daily Planet''s globe began to suspend above the air, projecting real time news from across the globe.


    "Beautiful, Isn''t she," Nion''s voice connected into their network.


    Superman''s voice came sharply through the coms. "What is happening, Zion?"


    "A gift," Nion answered. "These city will be self-sustaining and infinitely adaptable. This is what humanity needs to move forward."


    Batman''s voice cut through the conversation like a knife. "You didn''t consult anyone about this. You''re forcing change on a global scale without understanding the consequences."


    "Its not for you to worry, Gotham''s Dark Knight," Nion answered, his tone authoritative. "Gotham is proof. Humanity will cling to its decay until someone shows them another way.


    This is not a need, it is a must."


    Nion''s words were final Order, leaving no room for negotiation.


    ....


    Even as the final transformations were complete, the crowd still stood in silence. Nion looked to the ground, and raised his voice. His voice reaching across the globe. in different languages. "People of Earth. This is the true beginning of a new ear. A world free from the chains of our past.


    Today, embrace the future."

 115 - Atlantean Attack

    Gotham had transformed in the blink of an eye.


    Gone were its dark alleys and grey skyline. What stood in its place was a city of light.


    Right before the eyes of hundreds¡ªright under the nose of the world''s greatest detective¡ªthe whole grim, oppressive city had turned into a crystalline marvel that rivaled even an advanced civilizations. The very air hummed with transcendent energy, inspiring awe in the masses and terror in those who thought to challenge it.


    *HHMMM*


    A deep, guttural rumble echoed through the air, like the groan of a giant beast awakening from its slumber. The sky darkened as if to rain. People of Gotham turned to the sky, expecting another surprise.


    Nion''s head snapped toward the horizon. His shared vision with a Sentinel stationed on the coast revealed the dark clouds gathering unnaturally fast, casting shadows over Gotham. The Sentinels patrolling the shoreline turned their attention to the phenomenon, their cores glowing as they prepared for combat.


    The city began to hum as billboards across Gotham switched to live footage. The screens displayed the terrifying sight of a massive wave, hundreds of feet high, forming in the distance. Its frothing crest illuminated flashes of blue as Atlantean warriors riding enormous sea beasts surged alongside it.


    At the forefront, riding an armored sea beast, stood Orm, the Ocean Master. He raised his trident high, commanding the sea itself. His amplified voice boomed across the ocean, dripping with disdain.


    "Land Dwellers!" he roared. "For too long, you have polluted our oceans, destroyed our world, and dared to attack our people. Today, we show you the power of the sea!"


    At his command, the massive tsunami roared forward, its size and force enough to swallow Gotham whole. Panic spread through the streets as people began to flee, their faces etched with terror.


    Nion stood calmly, watching the wave rise above Gotham''s skyline. With a wave of his hand, a massive holographic image of himself materialized, towering over the city.


    "Stay calm," his voice boomed, resonating with authority. "You of little faith, why are you so afraid? Have I not shown you enough! Are you cowards?!"


    His words cut deep into the Gothamites, halting them in their tracks. They looked up at his titanic figure and remembered his presence in the city. This alien had enough power to make Earth kneel.


    "Sentinels, maintain peace in the city," he ordered.


    At the same moment, the city seemed to take a breath. Energy pulsed out from Gotham''s core, spreading outward to the very edges of the city. From orbit, it appeared as though a beacon had been lit.


    The pulse drummed like the heartbeat of the city, awakening to protect its people. The very air hummed with energy as a golden film enveloped Gotham, forming a protective dome.


    The rushing tsunami crashed against the invisible barrier with an earth-shattering force. Its roar sent ripples through the shield, yet not a single drop of water broke through. The thin film stood like as a wall between Gotham and its total destructions.


    Those near the coast saw the massive wave cascade harmlessly against the shield, returning to the ocean as though nothing had happened. In Gotham Square, the crowd watched in stunned silence, their fear slowly giving way to awe.


    "Citizens, we shall cut this ceremony short. Return home and enjoy your day," Nion announced naturally, as though commenting on the weather. "The city is secure, and it shall not fall. Never again."


    He turned to the Mayor and Commissioner Gordon. "Keep the streets in order. I will deal with the child throwing a tantrum."


    Gordon nodded and took command of the police, escorting the Mayor and council members. The police maintained order among reporters clamoring for answers, directing the crowd to safety.


    Nion gave one final sweep of the situation before stepping through a Door that appeared beside him, reemerging a few feet from the raging ocean. He saw the line of atlanteans soldier that were trying to destroy his city.


    He raised his hand in a gun gesture and mimed firing.


    ...


    Back in the ocean, Orm''s eyes narrowed as he watched the wave dissipate against the forcefield without causing any substantial damage.


    He raised his trident, signaling his forces to attack. Atlantean warriors surged forward, launching projectiles and conjuring waterspouts to assault the shield. Relentlessly, they tested its strength. Projectiles collided with sparks, while torrents of water splattered ineffectively against it.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Even as sea creatures slammed against the barrier, it showed no sign of relenting.


    Orm stood atop his sea beast, frustration and determination etched across his face. "Break it down!" he commanded. "It will yield to the might of Atlantis! Show them our strength!"


    Before his forces could respond, a transparent wave rippled through the ocean¡ªa mix of electromagnetic and psychic energy. Atlanteans and their mounts fell prey to the attack, collapsing into unconsciousness. Only those with iron wills clung to wakefulness.


    Orm felt the wave wash over him but resisted its effects, bolstered by his royal crown and sheer determination.


    "I don''t like fish that dance on my plate," Nion''s voice carried over the crashing waves. "I like them dead and roasted, with a bit of lemon on the side."


    Orm sneered, his anger burning hotter. "So, the self-proclaimed King of Earth graces us with his presence," he mocked. "You dare challenge the ocean? Do you think we are as weak as the land dwellers? I will show your world that the ocean is not afraid!"


    Nion shrugged, his tone unimpressed. "I don''t play with children who stay up past bedtime. Go fetch someone older and more responsible."


    "I am enough for you," Orm declared, his laughter cold and hollow. "Your toys cannot withstand the might of Atlantis! The surface world has taken too much from us. Today, we take it back."


    As Orm gathered the waves for another attack, Nion looked on, unfazed.


    Orm raised his trident high. "The ocean will have its justice!"


    Thunder rumbled through the darkened sky as lightning struck Orm''s trident in a brilliant flash. The weapon glowed fiercely, arcs of electricity snaking around it. Orm prepared for a final strike, pouring all his power into bringing down the shield.


    "Today, the land will know the might of the ocean!"


    Orm roared as the tsunami surged forward, carrying the weight of the ocean with it. He swam with the wave, trident raised high, striking the shield with all his might.


    BOOM BoomBoomBoom!


    The sound of thunder rolled through Gotham, the colossal force clashing with the immovable object. Lightning struck frantically as the trident pushed against the golden film, its tip sparking and burning with power.


    Orm gritted his teeth, his muscles bulging as he pressed the trident with all his might. Yet, even he could tell he wasn''t making a dent. His eyes crossed the barrier, locking onto Nion, who stood calmly with his hands in his pockets.


    "Having trouble, Princess?" Nion asked, his tone dripping with mockery.


    ...


    Beneath the City


    Silent footsteps echoed in the void.


    Zion walked steadily forward, lantern raised to illuminate the impenetrable darkness. The light revealed nothing beyond their immediate path, the air growing colder, heavier, and reeking of decay.


    Robin followed close behind, tension evident in his tightened grip on his staff. The faint echoes of his steps betrayed his unease.


    "You''re being cryptic," Robin said, his tone dry. "What exactly is this ''Darkness''? And why couldn''t Batman come?"


    "Why? You scared?" Zion teased, his gaze unwavering as he peered through the shadows. "He''s needed topside for the reopening. Besides, this is something I can handle myself. I just need someone to watch my back."


    Robin''s lips twitched in reluctant amusement. "And here I thought you brought me along for my sparkling personality."


    Zion chuckled. "That too, Robin. I don''t need another brooder. I don''t get how he keeps it up."


    "Tell me about it," Robin said, his tension easing slightly. "Sometimes I wonder if he feels anything at all."


    "He does, but he''s scared to show it," Zion replied. "Batman is the protector Bruce Wayne created to shield himself. After years, only Batman remains."


    "That''s heavy," Robin muttered, his fleeting enthusiasm dimmed.


    "Meh," Zion shrugged. "That''s why you''ll never be like him, Robin. You don''t dwell in the past; you push forward toward the future. You''re not Batman, but you''ll be something else."


    "What can I be besides Robin?"


    "You''ll know when your wings are grown," Zion said with a mysterious smirk.


    Robin groaned. "Can''t you stop being cryptic?"


    "Sorry, but it''s a job requirement for a seer," Zion quipped, chuckling.


    Their banter was cut short as Zion stopped abruptly.


    "We''re here," he said, stretching the lantern forward.


    Robin squinted into the darkness but saw nothing. "I don''t see anything."


    "That''s because this magical darkness blinds your perception. It tricks your senses," Zion explained, placing his hand firmly against the void. "When dealing with magic, never trust your eyes. This darkness hides the maze. We took about 136 turns before reaching here."


    Robin turned back, but all he saw was more darkness. His stomach dropped. "We¡­ took turns?" He remembered only walking straight, following Zion''s light.


    Zion placed the lantern down and pulled a bag from his coat. "Robin, listen carefully. I have somewhat of an idea what''s inside. it''s the center of the curse that permeates Gotham. But I have no idea what else might be there."


    From the bag, Zion pulled two iron short swords, blessed by priests and enchanted with runes, and extended them toward Robin. "You''re going to need these."


    Robin looked at the blades, lethal weapons Batman would never approve of. "No guns?" he joked.


    Zion shrugged. "These should be enough to kill most evil things inside."


    He armed himself next, pulling out holy grenades, knives, and revolvers, strapping a katana to his back. He loaded Robin and himself to the teeth before stepping closer to the wall.


    After a moment of examination, he turned to Robin. "Inside, trust nothing you see. Follow your gut."


    Robin nodded firmly, taking the lantern.


    Zion performed a series of hand seals, his hands glowing with green light. His posture shifted from that of a mage to a fighter as he drew back his fist and punched the wall with all his strength.


    Green energy erupted from his fist, cracking the darkness with an ear-piercing shriek.


    Robin watched as the blackness shattered, revealing a small stone chamber with a casket in the center. Religious markings adorned the walls, crosses and ancient bottles of holy water scattered about.


    Robin stepped inside, the malice of the place pressing against his skin.


    "What is this place?" Robin asked, his voice hushed.


    Zion approached the casket, conjuring a blade of black light. "Gotham''s oldest secret¡ªthe foundation of its curse."


    With a single thrust, he stabbed the body inside the casket.


    The black light sank into the corpse, and the chamber shuddered violently as darkness recoiled.


    "Finally, coming to use, Nekron," Zion muttered.

 116 - Teth Adam

    The sun blazed fiercely over the golden sands of Kahndaq, its light glinting off the towering minarets and ancient palaces that adorned its capital city, Shiruta. Its stone monuments of stood erected like guardians.


    The city''s air thick with tension as crystalline structures, similar to those that had transformed Gotham and other cities, began descending onto Kahndaq. Its arrival caused an uproar among the people who gathered in the streets, some shouted curses, some called to their god, and some to their protector.


    At the center of the city, Black Adam stood atop his grand palace, arms cross, his black and gold suit shimmering ominously under the sun. His piercing gaze fixed on the approaching trails, his jaw clenched with fury.


    A red streak appeared on the horizon, rapidly closing the distance. Within seconds, Supergirl hovered before him. Her red cape fluttering in the desert winds. Her expression calm but resolute.


    "Teth Adam," She began, her voice firm but diplomatic. "I was sent by Nion, to oversee the transformation of Kahndaq. These transformations are meant to help, not harm. I am here to ensure that no harm comes to Kahndaq or its people."


    "This is my kingdom, No one alters Kahndaq without my permission. We do not need oversight from an Alien," He roared, his clenched fist crackling with lightning. "Kahndaq has survived for millennia with any interference. Leave now, girl, or face the wrath of a god!"


    Kara''s expression hardened. "I can''t do that. These changes are for the good of everyone, including Kahndaq. I understand your need to protect your people, but¡ª"


    Before she could finish, Adam unleashed a bolt of lightning, striking the ground just few inches from her feet, sending dust and debris up in the air.


    "You understand nothing!" Adam roared, his voice echoing like thunder. "I am the protector of this land. Not you, not that alien. And I will not allow my kingdom to be tampered with!"


    Kara''s eyes reddened and heat began to radiate of her skin. "I didn''t come here to fight, but if you''re determined to stand in the way of growth, you leave me no choice."


    Adam snorted in disdain, the conversation was over.


    Adam launched himself forward, his fist crackling with lightning. Kara met him mid-air, their collision sending a shockwave that shattered the nearby windows and toppled weaker structures.


    Kara''s fist struck first, her punch landing squarely on Adam''s jaw, sending him spiraling into his castle. Dust rising as multiple walls crumbled, the old structure cracked like spider web. Adam, dust covered and enraged, climbed out of the rubble.


    "You dare strike me?!" he bellowed, summonsing a massive bolt of lightning from the sky. "Shazam!"


    The lightning thick as a pillar descended, crackling with divine energy as it aimed directly for Kara.


    Kara raised her hand, concentrating her magnetic flex, and slapped the lightning bolt. The raw energy sparked through the air before striking the statue nearby, turning the monument into shattered stones.


    "You are not the only one who can handle power, Adam," Kara shot back, her figure blurring.


    Kara vanished from Adam''s perception like a ghost, her flash step a level above his reflex. Her fist buried into Adam''s stomach like a drill, lifting the demi-god off the ground. Adam felt the air knocked out of him before he was sent bolting through the sky, followed by a shockwave.


    Before he could catch his breath, Kara appeared above him. Her fist raised to deliver Adam to where he belonged, six feet under. But Black Adam was no slouch. The champion of Egypt recovered quickly and met her punch with one of his own.


    The two fist colliding were like two bomb going off midair. The shortwave rolled like thunder through the city below, shattering glass. toppled monuments, and deafened people.


    Their fight tore through the air, each blow testament to their strength. Kara''s speed allowed her to land quick, precise strike, each one pushing Adam further up. Adam''s raw strength and experience countered her agility, his punches sending her crashing through the minarets and into the desert sands.


    "Your power is formidable," Adam admitted, wiping blood from his lip. "But it is nothing compared to the might of the gods!"


    "Meh," Kara replied, mimicking a familiar tone, cracking her neck. "I have fought better."


    Teth Adam''s face distorted in anger, summoning a massive sandstorm that engulfed the battlefield.


    Kara squinted, her vision cutting through the swirling grains, trying to find him. Suddenly, Adam emerged from the storm, his fist colliding with her crossed arm. Kara retaliated instantly with a burst of hear-vision that seared through the sandstorm, creating a path of glass in its wake.


    Adam dodged, using the storm to his advantage as he struck her from behind with lightning. Kara grunted as she gritted through the pain, her heat vision chasing down Adam. Adam swan with the storm, striking down Kara with lightning.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    "Enough!" Kaa shouted, her skin glowing gold as she exploded into a solar flare. Creating a crater of molten glass as she shot upward, gaining altitude.


    Adam tumbled away from the storm, smoke rising from his body. Kara raised her fist glowing with solar flare and punched towards Adam. The energy shot forth from her fist, similar to heat-vision. The energy met its target, throwing up sand and dust. the blazing impact created a small crater in the middle of the desert.


    Adam emerged from the dust cloud, visibly shaken but still standing. "You''re strong, Kryptonian," he admitted, his voice low and dangerous.


    They both moved at the same time, clashing at the center with the sound of a H-bomb going off. Their fight reached a new levels of ferocity. Kara pulled no punches as she gave it her all. Kara fought with speed and precision, weaving between Adam''s attacks, and landing blows that staggered him.


    Adapting as she fought, her experience with Zion and Barda helping her match Adam in skill.


    Adam, however, was also beginning to adapt, his strikes growing faster and more deliberate. He grabbed Kara mid-flight, slamming her into the ground with enough force to leave a deep bruise.


    "You''re too reckless!" He barked, raising his fist to deliver a final blow.


    But Kara caught his punch, her eyes glowing with determination. "And you''re too stubborn."


    She unleashed a concentrated blast of heat vision, hitting Adam square in the chest and sending him flying. As he recovered, he saw Kara standing tall, her body glowing faintly as her cells absorbed more of the sun''s energy.


    "Kahndaq doesn''t need your protection from progress," She said firmly. "It needs a leader who can guide it into the future."


    Adam''s fist tightened, "I don''t need lessens from a child."


    Kara sighed at the stubborn fossil. What she came to do was already done, the crystal has found its mark and the transformation was complete. Kahndaq has already been integrated. She had no more work to do.


    "Enough fighting, Teth Adam," Kara spoke up, "My works already done, your city has been changed. Weather you accept it or not is your problem, but do not halt the advancement of your people. Do not halt their progress."


    Adam''s head snapped in the direction of his city, the once stone city now crystal. It had changed without his wishes.


    "You will pay for this," Adam roared, lightning crackling as he got ready to continue the fight.


    "My king!"


    A group of Kahndaq''s citizens stood at the edge of the battlefield, their faces solemn. An elderly man stepped forward, raising his hands.


    "Please, my king," the man begged. "Continuing this fighting will only endangers us. If these changes can help Kahndaq, should we not consider them?"


    Adam''s gaze shifted from Kara to his people, the weight of their words pressing against his pride. His fists unclenched, the crackling lightning dissipating.


    Kara lowered her stance, her expression softening. "Black Adam, you care deeply for your people. I can see that. We are only trying to protect them."


    Adam''s jaw tightened as he considered her words. Finally, he turned away, his voice heavy with reluctant acceptance. "This isn''t over, Kryptonian. But for now, I will allow this... intervention."


    Kara nodded, relief washing over her as the tension eased. "Thank you. For your people."


    Adam stared at her for a moment before turning away. "For Kahndaq," he muttered, disappearing into the shadows of his palace.


    Kara remained to oversee the process, ensuring that no harm came to the city or its people. Despite their clash, she respected Adam''s determination to protect his country.


    But deep within his palace, Black Adam stood alone, watching the changes with a conflicted heart. His pride burned, but so did his desire to protect his people. And as the first signs of progress took root in Kahndaq, he silently vowed to ensure that no one¡ªnot Kryptonians, not Nion¡ªwould ever take his kingdom from him.


    For now, the battle was over.


    But the war for the future of Kahndaq had only just begun.


    ____


    The light of death and dread filled the air.


    Black light bursting forth from the coffin like a flood.


    Before its fully sung into the body, transforming and rejuvenating the dead. A black suit similar to Green lantern''s with Black Lantern symbol appeared on the suit. The dead body snapped opened its eyes, rising from the coffin.


    Zion took a step back, his hand on the Katana. Slowly watching as warlock rose from the dead, skin pale and his eyes black. Robin gulped in nervousness as he saw the dead body awaken with particle effect. He saw Zion standing before him with serious expression.


    The warlock slowly rose out of the coffin, transformed by the black light. His eyes focused for a moment before locking eyes with Zion.


    "Who are you?" He questioned in a ghastly voice.


    "I am... Batman and this is Robin," Zion answered, much to Robin''s amusement and terror.


    At the answer, the resurrected warlock looked at them both in scrutiny, not believing their answer. "Where am I? What year is it?"


    "Gotham city, centuries after your death," Zion answered calmly.


    "Its been more then a century since I died," The warlock mused. "Are you the ones who woke me up? Why?"


    "Well, you dying kinda cursed the whole city," Zion began. "I woke you up so, you could do your magic to absorb it back." Zion explained his plan.


    "You want me to absorb the curse?" Warlock repeated.


    "Yes," Zion answered.


    "What if I don''t want to?" The warlock asked, a sadistic glint appearing in his eyes.


    "Pretty Please?" Zion answered, "We''d really appreciate it."


    Zion''s answered made the warlock pause, making him looked a bit suspicious. "What do I get in return?"


    "More power," Zion answered, taking out a green pearl filled with Mystic energy.


    The warlock stood stunned by the glowing pearl, brilliant with cosmic energy. He was a warlock so powerful it took many powerful mages to put him down. But if he got this, he could definitely grow more power


    "Hahahaha," The warlock burst into a bone chilling laughter, making Robin shiver involuntarily. Zion flicked his hand making the pearl vanish.


    "How are you sure that I would not kill and steam it from you?" He questioned with venom, ending his laughter. His eyes focused on Zion and Robin, his eyes lusting for more power.


    "Absorb the curse," He commanded, using his authority over the Black light.


    The warlocks face distorted in confusion and anger as his body left his control. It moved independent on his mind and began to cast Magic using is own life force as its price.


    "Did you really think I would allow for your resurrection without any insurance?" Zion sighed as he saw the Warlock glare at him.


    Without delay, his body began to cast Magic, his dark chant filled the air. The air filled with malevolent energy, the shadows danced alive, and the darkness deepened.


    Suddenly, the shadows around them surged.


    "Zion," Robin said, his voice sharp as he drew the swords. "We''ve got company."


    Zion turned to him, "To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single, as I am."


    "WTF!"

 117 - Curse

    The air in the chamber thickened heavy with oppressive weight of despair.


    The warlock''s dark chant reverberated through the wall, each syllable a ripple in the fabric of reality. Each mutter a chill down the spine as coldness infiltrated the area.


    Shadows that had once clung to the corners of the room came alive. Twisting and morphing as they took their grotesque form. Their form humanoid with disproportionate limbs. crawling across the walls, the floor and the ceiling. Their long arms ending with flawed fingers. Their mouths cracked open, their cries an eerie chorus of pain and rage.


    "Zion," Robin called, his grip on the swords tightening in nervousness. Their enchanted edges gleamed faintly in the oppressive darkness.


    "Revenants," Zion answered, drawing his katana in a smooth motion. Its blade shimmered with a faint, green magical aura. "Amalgamation of Gotham''s curse and peoples despair taken form."


    "Why are they here?"


    "Well, we are basically evacuating them from their home so~" Zion shrugged.


    The warlock, still chanting cast a withering glare at Zion. "You think you can control me? You might control my body, but you cannot command the curse itself!"


    "Don''t care," Zion offed the flying corpse. "Robin, its time to use your acrobatic skill and learn some new. Its time you fight Gotham''s true darkness."


    *Hrrrrhrek*


    Unholy howls filled the air as the Revenants broke into a sprint, their stale broken.


    The first Revenant lunged, its claws like jagged shards of shadow slicing through the air. Robin moved instinctively, one sword deflecting the attack while the other slashed clean through the creature. The Rvenant let out a shriek as it dissolved into black mist, only to reform a moment later.


    "Target its core, target the darker spots," Zion informed, his blade dividing a Revenant''s core, exorcising it. The mist dispersed into the air, leaving a broken fingernail in its place.


    Robin jumped back, avoiding the sweep while his eyes scanned the Revenants for their core. His eyes squinted. His domino mask activated. It divided the shades, and shone the darkest target. Robin acted immediately.


    He adjusted his stance and focused on precision as the Revenant lunged at him. His next strike pierce clean through a revenant''s core, and the creature let out a distorted wail before disintegrating completely. The dispersed shadow left a torn train stamp behind.


    Robin saw the old ticket and his face couldn''t help but contort.


    "Robin," Zion called, throwing a kunai at the revenant aiming at Robin''s blind spot. "Stay focused."


    Robin nodded and he jumped back to fighting the Revenants, pushing the image of the train stamp to the back of his mind.


    Meanwhile, Zion moved with practiced grace, his katana weaving through the air like a painter¡¯s brush. His each strike deliberate and calculated, flowing like water from one Revenant to another.


    A revenant droped from the ceiling, Zion sidestepped and drew up, cleaving the Revenant in two before it could reach the ground. He did not stop moving as he kicked the revenant to his side and followed with a slash. His step never halted, his blade never stopped.


    The warlock¡¯s chant grew louder, the air vibrating with dark energy, the temperature grew colder. The shadows thickened, becoming more oppressive, and the revenants grew more aggressive.


    Revenants at the back began to cuddle together, their form morphing into a larger revenant. It raised its large body and charged forward, absorbing other revenants as it passed by.


    Robin saw the large Revenant charge at him and cursed under his breath. He ducked under the first swing but he was caught off by the second, the blow sending him sprawling. The creature loomed over him, its jagged maw opening wide.


    Zion immediately dashed forward. He leapt over a cluster of Revenants, his katana slicing through the air. The blade struck one of the revenants cores, causing the revenant to wail in pain. The large revenant reeled back away from Robin, a part of turning to mist.


    "Thanks," Robin muttered, pulling himself to his feet.


    "Stay sharp," Zion replied, landing next to Robin. He turning to face the swarm and the recovering large revenants. "I will open up a path."


    Zion charged forward, his sword raised high. Robin followed behind him, his sword in reverse grip. Zion hacked the way through, his sword exorcising the revenants while Robin followed close, protecting his back. With each swing, they advanced forward until they arrived before the large titan.


    Zion silently gestured to Robin before he engaged with the giant. The giant swung its arms, trying to smash Zion where he stood. Zion waited until the final moment before he raised his sword to deflect the attack to the side. With the force redirected to the ground, the revenant stumbled forward. Zion stepped forwards and stabbed one of its core, causing it to howl in pain.


    Robing jumped up using Revenanta hand, doing a spin as he landed on its back. He stabbed forth with his two swords, destroying two of its core. Zion shot the last core with his revolver, shattering the giant to mist.


    "You could have done that?" Robin asked exasperatedly as he landed behind Zion, cutting a Revenant in the process.


    "Where is the fun in that?" Zion asked as he brought a holy hand granada and threw it into the crowd of Revenants.


    *Dong*


    The holy hand granade exploded with bright light and a bells gong, burning the revenants to ashes. Robin gave Zion a weird looked before returning to fight the Revenants.


    While they fought, the warlock chant reached a crescendo as Black light burst forth from him like disco light. The air shuddered with pure malevolence. The remaining revenants converged, merging into a single massive entity¡ªa towering shadow with dozens of eyes and mouths, each one screaming in rage and despair.


    Zion looked at the large creature, his expression stoic and uttered one word, "Really."


    "How are we going to fight it?" Robin questioned.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    "Just like before," Zion answered as he stepped forward, a white Katana appearing at his left.


    *ROOOOAAR*


    The giant Revenant roared in thousand voice, a wail of hundred souls fused cried in agony, stunning all those who heard it. Robin felt his body freeze over like he was encased in ice while Zion stood guard before him.


    The Revenant took its swing, its large hand reaching across the chamber. Zion raised his left to slap the hald away as his right released the blade from its sheath. The action was done in a smooth motion.


    *Hrahhaa*


    The monster cried as its hand dispersed to dust. Its size reduced by a proportion as it regrew another. Zion looked over to Robin before he turned to the revenant. He raised his sword and swung forwards, releasing hundreds of sword shadow, shattering all its cores and returning it to dust.


    Trinkets of different origin and age fell to the ground, the remains of the few despaired souls. Zion used the white light to burn them as he turned to Robin. "Good work, Robin."


    Robin could only give him wry smile, rubbing his hand to ward the coldness away. He opened his mouth to talk when Zion pulled him to the side and deflected a beam of black light.


    "Hahaha, Finally I am free," The warlock arrogant voice echoed in the chamber. "Your will could not hold me. I shall kill you and free my Master, Nekron. Death shall rule the light."


    ***


    The warlock levitated above the coffin, his eyes burning with malevolent energy as he drew power from the cursed air.


    Zion sheathed his katana, stepping back with an air of nonchalance. His expression was calm, almost disinterested, as the warlock¡¯s black light surged through the chamber like living tendrils.


    ¡°Alright, Robin,¡± Zion said casually, gesturing toward the warlock with an open palm. ¡°Your turn.¡±


    Robin shot him a disbelieving look. ¡°My turn? He just entered his phase two!¡±


    Zion shrugged. ¡°Exactly. That why I brought you here¡ªA little challenge to test your metal. Besides,¡± he added with a faint smirk, "What''s an adventure without a trial of fire?¡±


    Before Robin could retort, the warlock raised his hands, summoning a swirling mass of black light. With a deafening roar, he hurled it toward Robin, the beam crackling with necrotic energy.


    ¡°Move!¡± Zion barked, leaping back to give Robin space.


    Robin¡¯s years of training kicked in. He dived forward, rolling across the chamber floor as the black light obliterated the spot where he¡¯d stood a moment before. Springing to his feet, he brandished his twin swords, their enchanted edges glowing faintly in the oppressive darkness.


    ¡°You really brought me here for this?¡± Robin shouted, his eye never moving away from the warlock.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Zion called back, his voice laced with amusement. ¡°Now stop complaining and fight.¡±


    The warlock descended with eerie grace, his hands weaving dark sigils in the air. From the sigils emerged shadowy spikes that shot toward Robin in rapid succession. Robin dashed to the side, his acrobatics carrying him gracefully through the storm of projectiles.


    He jumped, rolled, ran across the wall, avoiding the spikes from impaling him with a feline grace. His training with Batman allowed him push through the exhaustion that appeared at the edge of his mind. His mind raised to finish this trial.


    He changed direction and ran at the warlock, avoiding most projectiles while his sword helped him parry others. He closed the distance quickly, his swords flashing as he slashed at the warlock¡¯s midsection. The warlock deflected the blow with an arc of black energy, retaliating with a swipe of his own that sent Robin staggering back.


    ¡°Impressive,¡± the warlock hissed, his voice a guttural growl. ¡°But you¡¯re just a child playing with knives.¡±


    Robin¡¯s jaw tightened, his eyes narrowing. ¡°Yeah? Let¡¯s see how you like a kid who knows how to use them.¡±


    He launched himself at the warlock again, spinning mid-air to deliver a flurry of strikes. The warlock countered with his bare hands, dark energy radiating from his fingers as he parried Robin¡¯s blows. The clash of steel against shadow sent sparks flying, illuminating the chamber in brief flashes of light.


    Robin ducked under a wide swing, sliding between the warlock¡¯s legs and slashing at his ankles. The warlock snarled in pain, staggering as the enchanted blades disrupted his energy. Robin pressed the advantage, delivering a rapid series of strikes that forced the warlock onto the defensive.


    ¡°You¡¯re quicker than I thought,¡± the warlock admitted, his tone laced with venom.


    ¡°Quicker than you¡¯ll ever be,¡± Robin quipped, dodging a retaliatory blast of dark energy.


    But as the fight intensified, the warlock¡¯s eyes gleamed with a sinister light. He extended a hand toward Robin, dark tendrils snaking from his fingertips. Robin swung his swords to deflect them, but the tendrils moved like living things, weaving around his blades and striking him square in the chest.


    Robin staggered, his vision blurring as the world around him shifted. The oppressive chamber faded away, replaced by a warm, familiar glow.


    Robin blinked, his swords lowering instinctively. He was no longer in the shadowy depths of Gotham. Instead, he stood at an elevated platform, high above the ground, surrounded by cheers of the audience.


    His heart skipped a beat as he recognized the scene¡ªit was that day.


    ¡°Dick,¡±


    The voice made his breath catch. He turned slowly, his eyes widening as he saw them: his parents, their expressions warm and inviting.


    ¡°Mom...Dad?¡± Robin¡¯s voice trembled, his grip on his swords faltering.


    Mary Grayson swung forward, her hand reaching out to him. ¡°Dick, Grab my hand. Its your turn. ¡±


    Robin¡¯s swords clattered to the floor. ¡°Mom?¡± Taking a hesitant step forward as he reached out


    His father swung in the distance. ¡°It''s okay to be scared, just jump we will catch you.¡±


    "C''mon honey, Mom will catch you," His mother extended her hand, her familiar smile tugging at his heart.


    Tears welled in Robin¡¯s eyes. The memories of his parents flooded back, reminding of how much he missed them. He¡¯d spent so long trying to prove himself, to live up to the legacy of his parents. To see them now, almost in the past¡ªit was almost too much to bear.


    He could be with them, here and forever. No need to fight villains, no need to put his life on the line every night.


    But something tugged at the edge of his consciousness, the glint of the enchanted sword. He remembered his reason for being here. He was here to fight the warlock. He was fighting the warlock. He is fighting the warlock.


    ''When dealing with magic, never trust your eyes. Believe nothing you see."


    Zion''s advice echoed in his mind, giving him a bit of clarity. He reached for his fallen sword, its cold glint reassuring him of his reality. He turned to his parents.


    "I missed you, but I have to continue forward," He muttered as he stepped forward, out of the elevated platform.


    The illusion began to crack, the warm glow fading as the shadowy chamber started to bleed through.


    "Stay with us," His mother spoke, her voice taking a desperate edge.


    "I want to, but not like this," He answered


    With a defiant cry, Robin swung his sword, shattering the illusion completely. The circus and the crowd disintegrated, and the warlock''s snarling face came into focus, his dark tendrils recoiling as Robin broke free.


    Robin lunged forward, his sword a blur as he unleashed a flurry of strikes. Fueled by rage and sorrow, his sword held nothing back. Each strike carried his will to move forward while carrying the weight of the past.


    The warlock staggered under the onslaught, his control over the shadows weakening. Robin didn¡¯t relax, his focus laser-sharp as he drove through Warlock''s attacks. With a final, powerful strike, he plunged both swords into the warlock¡¯s chest, piercing his corrupted core.


    The warlock let out a final, guttural scream as the black light erupted from his body, consuming him in a burst of raw energy. The chamber shook violently, the oppressive darkness dissipating as the curse was finally broken.


    Robin stepped back, panting heavily as the warlock¡¯s form crumbled into ash. He turned to Zion, his swords still raised. ¡°Next time, you¡¯re fighting the illusions.¡±


    "Congratulations,," Zion clapped softly, "You have succeeded in proving yourself and breaking Gotham''s curse. I am proud of you."


    Zion picked up Robin''s fallen sword and extended it to him. Robin received the sword grumpily, his eyes staring daggers at Zion. Zion lifted the white katana and tapped the ground. A white wave rippled out from the blade, extinguishing the residule curse across Gotham''s under ground.


    "Time to leave, Robin," Zion said as he grabbed Robin by his collar and glitching away.


    After their presence vanished,


    Darkness in the chamber churned, tendrils of shadow gathered in the warlock''s coffin. They stirred together, their ethereal form materializing into a black ring. The ring hovered above the coffin only for a moment before it flew out of the chamber in a streak of black light.


    Moments later, the chamber flooded with light, its walls closing in as they turned into crystals. Erasing any evidence of the structure every existing.


    The whole of Gotham''s underbelly had changed and reordered. Re-imagined in the best interest of the people and for the people. The structure of the old, those that had no need of existing were erased from it.


    Including kicking some feathery intruders out of their nest.

 118 - Ripjaws

    "Need a little help, princess?"


    "C''mon, strike with more force! Maybe you can finally scratch it!"


    Nion''s taunt worked effectively to enrage Orm, to the degree that his face distort disgustingly and his palm bruised as he struck the shield with all his strength. Yet his efforts were for naught. The shield remained strong against all his attacks, its golden tint never diluting.


    And the man he had come to kill stood on the other side, taunting his fruitless efforts. However, Orm was anything but a coward. He struck the shield relentlessly, trying to find a weakness in the shield. Form lightning to Gargantuan waves.


    Yet as the time passed, he learned of his arrogance and ignorance. He had struck the surface in pride of his power, in his inadequacy. However, he could not run now. He could not retreat. He could not bring the war he started home.


    He was impulsive enough to attack the surface without much preparation, but he will not have Atlantis pay for his failure. If he were to be defeated and killed, Atlantis could feign ignorance of his action.


    Nion looked down at his watch, a replica of the Omnitrix. Time was crawling in strides in his perception. His digitized mind pulsing in nanoseconds, analyzing all that its and to be. His mechanical form weighting under Earths gravity.


    Maybe he should have let Zion handle this.


    It is utterly boring to fight a child.


    The hourglass symbol on his watch pulsed, a voice echoed with clarity.


    "Sorry for the hold, Zai. I will take care of this."


    He could sigh if not for the incapability of his mechanical form. His work was finished and he could returned to having a turf war with the omniscient computer. She was relentless, yet unfeeling.


    How can a machine feel without its ability to comprehend?


    A door opened next to him.


    ***


    Orm saw his adversary walk into a magical door and disappear.


    His frown deepened as he understood that he had bored his adversary away. That he was so insignificant that he was not even worth the effort to defeat.


    The realization only fueled his anger as he conjured lightning to strike the shield again. He lunged out with the sea, pulling the wave along. He struck the shield with all he could muster and more.


    Its result, Redundant.


    However,


    In his anger, he failed to notice that a creature had cut through the water towards him. Its scales blended with the dark waters of Gotham. Its presence only illuminated by a spot of light that glowed softly.


    It vanished deep into the water, leaving no shadows behind.


    Orm fell back into the waters, unaware of the predator that lurked beneath. Orm scanned the docks, waiting for any kind reaction. Notices non of significance. A few strode out of their home, to watch them, to watch him.


    Orm decided to retreat, to the deep.


    He swam down into the ocean, to retrieve as many soldiers as he could. He swan in the dark waters of Gotham, that looked undeniably dark for a water not that deep. He swam to its depth, scanning its bed for his allies.


    He found them, unconscious and unharmed. He swam toward the fallen soldiers and checked his vitals. He shook the guy, trying to wake him up. He need him awake so he could help him.


    Unbeknownst to him, a predator had already locked in on him.


    The creature left its hiding and swam straight toward the incautious Atlantean. Its speed a blur in the dark and a rippled in the water. Its actions sudden like a shark in a Jaws movie.


    Orm only noticed the anomaly when it was already upon him, he kicked the Atlanean Soldier away and raised his trident in defense. He collided with his attacker, a creature that send chills down his spine.


    The esca(antenna) on its head illuminated its face in the dark water. Its rows of teeth grinded against his tridents, its beady green eyes staring into him with hunger. Its hands moved like sharp sword underwater, ripping his atlantean armour to shreds. The force of its push dragging him through the sea bed.


    Orm steer to keep the claws from reaching him as he tried to kick the abomination of the creature away. He was already being harmed, his blood drying the water as it left a trail of water. He had a spark of idea and induced the lightning magic imbued in his trident. The lightning sparked in the dark numbing his hand but it also managed to shock the creature away.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.


    He reeled back, away from the creature to see what it was.


    The creature face looked like a cat fish with beady green eyes that glowed in the dark with an angularfish''s esca on its head. Its rows of teeth were like that of a shark, sharp and pointy. Its arm muscular and covered in black scales, green finns growing in its arms. Its four fingers webbed, ending with sharp claws. Its tail was long and sharp covered in similar black scales. Its body was like a male mermaid with white scales and a massive fin on its back.


    Orm recognized this creature from the stories his mother had told him. A creature from the Trench, the darkest part of the ocean where even Atlanteans fear to enter. Where King Atlan had banished the dark creature. He had no idea why or how this creature was here.


    He raised his trident ready to fight, creatures from the Trench were driven by hunger and he should kill it before it killed him. And alert his people of its presence in case they returned.


    The creature shook its head and recovered from the shock. It''s green eyes looked on him. Its waved its tail and charged at him with frightening speed.. Orm raised his tridents in offense.


    He thrust the spear forward at the last moment to kill the mindless creature. The creature twisted its body at the last moment to avoid becoming kabab and swung its tail, striking Orm away before it turned and swam towards him.


    Orm quickly raise his trident in defense, the collision pushing further back. The force of the strike made his hands numb and he barely avoid the follow up. He recovered from the continuous assault and began to think. He jumped back with the attack and waited for another claw strike and deflected it to the die before slashing at the creature.


    But the creature reeled back, avoiding the slash before it pushed forward, smashing into him before he could recover from the swing. Its claws gripped the tridents and pushed him into the sea bed, dragging him against the decaying crates before throwing him through a the sunken ship.


    Orm tore through the ship''s decayed wall and landed on the sand bed, kicking up dust. He groaned in backpain and concussion. Yet before he could even recover, the creature was on him. Its clawed hands reaching for his throat.


    Orm invoked the lightnin from his tridant to hit the creature before commanding the sea to smash it. The creature was stunned and was thrown into the wreaked ship. The sea stopped not as it crushed even the ship with the creature.


    Orm slowly got up from the bed, blood cover his wound as shreds of Atlantean armour struck to him. He used the tridant as a support as he watched the wreckage he had caused. His eyes squinted as he scanned for any signs of movements.


    *Bang*Bang*


    Sound of something smashing against the wreckage rippled ominously in the dark, causing Orm to flinch before he commanded the sea to flatten the wreckage, killing the creature in the process. The creak and crunch of metal followed as the sea flattened the wreaked into the sea bed. The wreakage could not sink deeper and silence returned to the sea.


    Yet Orm waited, ready in-case the creature survived.


    However, before his could react, tens of share tooth dug into his shoulders, painting the water red. Orm tried to moved his tridents but felt an iron grip holding it. He tried to moved the sea, but the helmet was ripped off his head, leaving cuts on his face. The creature tightened tightened its jaw, crushing his shoulder, causing pain to shoot through the atlanteans body.


    It ripped trident of his loosened grip, throwing its further from his reach. Its claws dug into his arms as the water reddened further. Pulling them out to rip them away. Drawing more blood that its turn the water crimson.


    All orm saw was blood, he breathed in the taste of his blood. He knew he was dead, he was caught off guard, he would die here, as food to the trench creature. His eyes began to darken as his blood leaked more. His pain began to reduce, the hundred teeth ripping his flesh no longer a sensation.


    Orm knew, his death was near.


    *BOOM*


    A shockwave rocked his body, yet Orm could feel nothing but the dust scratching his dimming eyes. His eyes moved in the darkened water, searching for a way to escape. His ears rung as it heard something, a voice. Yet he was far gone to survive.


    Sorry mother, I could not avenge our people


    It was all he could thing as the darkness swallowed him.


    ***


    "Release my child, Creature!"


    Screamed the Queen of Atlantis, her silvery-white hair flowing like water. Adorned in her Armour, her eyes filled with fury as she stared the creature that hand its deadly grip on her child.


    Behind her stood the Atlantean Royal Guards who had accompanied her, ready follow their Queens commands.


    She pointed her trident, invoking its power. However, the creature swam through her attack or used her son as its meat shield. Her son was bleeding and he would die soon, yet the creature did not looked scared bit its smiled with its hundred teeth.


    It tightened its clawed grip on her son, drawing more blood. Its raised him before her and used his other hand to claw his chest, ripping his flesh and dying the deep crimson.


    It was a show of force. Her son would die if she were to attack.


    "Do you wish to strike me, Atlana?" It questioned in its gugling voice, shocking Altana. She had not expected a creature from the trench to speak. But its second question made her pause. "Do you wish to war with the Land?"


    Atlana lowered her tridents, but her hand never relaxed. She would attack the moment the creature let its guard down. She reined in her emotions and asked. "What are you? What do you want?"


    "What I am is nothing to you, Atlana. Answer me, Do you wish to war with the lands?" It questioned, dragging its claws further.


    "Not if you harm my child," Atlana answered through her increasing anger. Seeing him bleed only made her heart break.


    The creature lifted the prince of Atlantis, displaying his broken figure for all to see. "You son struck this city, to drown its citizens and exact his revenge on my people. I do no take lightly to those that threaten my people.


    How should I punish your son for his crimes?" The questioned growled out of his throat. His intentions clear.


    Atlana felt disappointment wash over her, but her child''s safety took priority. "I do not wish to war with you. I apologies for his mistake, but let us end this here."


    The creature lowered the prince of Atlantis, removing his claws from him. He pulled back and threw the prince towards Atlana. "I hope you keep your words, Atlana," He said. "Nion would like to have a conversation with you.."


    Atlana stared at the creature with realization.


    "God is eager to show us mercy when we truly seek forgiveness for our sin, But I am not God." He answered his form glitching. "Make your apology grand, Queen of Atlantis. " He vanished. (Joel 2:13)


    Atlana stared at the water for a moment before turning to her Son. He looked pale, his heart slow. He had lost too much blood. The ships doctors approached and took him in. She turned and commanded her guards to return.


    Yet her eyes stared at the shadows of Gotham.


    Her stupid son had brought trouble to their door step and now they had to meet the land. this is not she was expecting to deal when her firstborn returned.


    Maybe she could change this into an opportunity for her kingdom. Maybe Atlantis doesn''t need to hide no more.

 119 - Tyranny

    -M''arzz-


    Zion appeared through the glitch, dry and human.


    He snapped his fingers, transforming his fighting gear to more comfortable hoodie and sweat pants. He then unceremoniously fell on the couch and buried his head into the pillow. He would like a good nap before he got up to deal with the backlash for all the BS he just pulled.


    He has to explain to Mark, then Justice League. Deal with all the uproar from the presidents and countries. He also need to keep an eyes on all the villainous organization. Too much things to deal with.


    Even Kim Jung Un was chill with him helping his country than America.


    *Meow*


    Eon made his presence known with a meow as he strode into the room through the open door. Zion lifted his head from his pillow and turned to the cat that jumped onto his back, curling up on it. He lifted the lazy cat off his back and brought it before his face.


    "Eon," Zion asked.


    The guy hadn''t come to him since Rachel and Cassandra arrived. If he was here, there should be a reason. However, the can answered him with a meow and looked towards the door. Zion followed its gaze and found a small head poking through. Rachel flinched at their gaze and hid herself.


    Zion and Eon exchanged a gaze and called Rachel in. "Come in." Meow!


    Zion sat up and placed Eon in his lap. Rachel peaked her head in, her expression one of reluctance. She looked at Eon for a moment and gathered herself, the walked in.


    "You here for Eon?" Zion asked, stroking the lazy cat.


    She nodded as answer and stood before him.


    "You want to go with Rachel, Buddy?" Zion asked, stroking the cat.


    The cat gave a satisfied purr and curled into a ball. He didn''t seem to want to get out of his bed. Zion turned his eyes to Rachel. "Why have you come, Rachel?" Zion asked softy as to not deter Rachel.


    The girls acted with enough reservation with him.


    Rachel looked at him with her big purple eyes, still reluctant to speak up. Zion just waited for her to articulate her request. Rachel took a moment, but she finally spoke up.


    "Can I... Can I see meet my Mother?" She asked, her eyes focused on his expectantly while bracing for rejection.


    "I will arrange it," Zion agreed.


    He was fine with Rachel meeting her mother and her relatives. He was already planning to anyway. He wanted make the Girl experience all those that they missed as children. It was his wish, even though they would be his blades when he needed them.


    A great general treats his troop like his children - tun Shu.


    Rachel looked a bit shocked at his immediate answer, hope filling her eyes. She quickly opened her mouth to ask another request. "Can we go to Gotham with Aunt Harley and Ivy?"


    Zion eyes narrowed immediately while his neuron shots faster than a human''s could. He immediate chocked instinctive response and said. "Nope," leaving enough to allow for conversation.


    "...Okay," Rachel accepted, clearly dejected by his refusal.


    Zion held his sight and inquired. "Why do you want to go to Gotham?"


    Rachel lifted her head but struggled to answer. She thought about the reasons she wanted to go to Gotham, but she couldn''t come with any. She wanted to go because Harley said she will show her all of Gotham. She wanted to see the Earth where she came from.


    Zion waited for her to answer but the silence only stretched. "I do not mind you and Cass from going to Gotham with Barda, Nora or Even Fries. But not with Harley and Ivy."


    Rachel seem to understand his words and looked at him, rearranging her question. "Can we go with Aunt Nora?"


    "Yes," Zion agreed. "Be safe while you are out there. I am talking about you too, Cass." Zion looked to the door. Cassandra peeked in and gave him a nod of affirmation.


    Zion could only sigh, this girl still wouldn''t talk.


    "Borrow the teleporter from Barda," He instructed before falling back into the couch and shooed the raven haired girl away.


    Rachel quickly ran out with a light in her steps. Cass quickly joined and the two girls were off to their exploration. Zion kept a gaze on their retreating figure before pulling his lazy cat to his chest.


    "Should I put a bullet through Harley''s skull and turn Ivy into a experimental subject for the green?" he asked the cat, who answered with a purr and closed his eyes. "Hmm. Mark made promise to not kill anyone, so I shouldn''t. That doesn''t mean I can''t cube them."


    Zai appeared on the couch next to him as he thought to himself. Zion gave him a familiar gaze, one that had one intent.


    ["I will give her a warning."]


    "Keep an eye on Rachel, her magic might have lost its intensity, but she can still a better mage."


    ["Whose fault is that?"] Zai questioned.


    Zion closed his eyes. "She need something to hold on to."If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    ["But Magic, it demands."] Zai showed a bit of concern.


    Rachel only had half her soul, her demon side was swallowed by Zion. She was only half of her self. Using magic would only strain her soul.


    "I will see that it demands not."


    ["Whatever you wish, Boss."]


    "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts our fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in Love. (1 John 4: 18)"


    Zai vanished with his words. Zion drifted to sleep while petting the pristine fur of the lazy cat.


    ...


    On Earth, everyone was tweaking out.


    Their cities had gone from concrete structures to a crystalline marvel. The boring cities now glowed with power under the moonlight. The holographic displays mesmerizing the watchers.


    This was like a fantasy, more of a vivid dream. Thrown into a world they never known without a warning.


    From the street to the their homes were changed, their walls changed. A new interface appeared on their door with added security, allowing them to change the internal structure of their house with a click.


    Pedestrians walked around the city in amazement, examining it. Many new Nion shelters appeared around the city. Hospital now had more rooms and upgraded equipment. Not as advanced as the Shelters but advanced enough to keep people alive. The corporate building now stood taller and more domineering and above all stood the daily planets floating globe.


    Through out the city, in all its glory, only the vehicle stood unchanged, misplaced in time.


    Superman floated above it all, his expression troubled and his through conflicting. This city, this crystalline metropolis was a shadow of Krypton. Its structure too familiar and alien. To close to home.


    But worried him more the the technology laid beneath it all.


    It was too advance, too far into the future. In wrong hands it could lead to devastation, used for war.


    His communicator buzzed softly in his ear. "Superman," came the gravely voice of Gotham''s Dark knight.


    "Batman," Superman responded, his voice steady but tinged with unease. "I assume you''ve seen the changes."


    "Yes," Batman replied dryly.


    Superman looks at Metropolis new skyline.


    "Its beautiful," Superman admitted, though his tone lacked the enthusiasm. "Its unrecognizable. Like I am seeing the shadow of Krypton." his voice wavered slightly, betraying his unease. "I didn''t even know you could do something like that."


    Batman''s voice cut through like a blade. "That''s the problem. He''s trying to control Earth." Batman continued. "Whether he means to or not, this level of technological integration is dangerous. Its a system design to think for itself, to evolve. You of all people should understand what happens when Kryptonian tech fall into the wrong hands."


    Superman closed his eyes for a moment, memories flashing through his mind¡ªKryptons destruction, his battle with Brainiac and the learning of Krypton''s hsitory. All example of how technology meant to help but spiral into something catastrophic.


    "He is trying to help," Superman said, his voice softer. "He promised."


    "Dictators always do," Batman replied bluntly.


    The words hung heavily on Superman''s mind. He opened his eyes and gazed into the distance. "Zion''s not like them. He doesn''t want to conquer or enslave humanity. He has already help so many in Gotham, and now around the world."


    "And that''s what make him even more dangerous," Batman said. "Nion want perfection. He is shaping this world in his image. That''s a goal without limit. A goal that risks everything."


    "You don''t trust him. You''ve made that clear," Superman voiced.


    Batman was not about to argue. "Its not about trust. Its about preparation. If this goes wrong., if someone hacks into this network or manipulates him, it won''t just be metropolis or Gotham at risk. Its the world."


    At his worlds, Superman''s gaze shifted down, children exploring the changes playground, the high definition hologram showing them the wild life as if they were real. "I know," He answered as his sense scanned the city. For a moment he could not find anyone who need his help.


    "But they''re safer. Isn''t that we fight for? Can''t we give him a chance? They will be happy."


    There was a pause, both heroes lost in their own thoughts. A voice cut into their silence - Flash , his tone tinged with excitement and nervousness.


    "Ug, guys? You seeing what'' going on in Central city? Crystalline sidewalk, floating traffic light and...Did this letter box offer me a latter?"


    Superman allowed a small smile at Barry''s humor, but Batman cut in sharply. "Focus, Flash. How are people reacting?"


    "They''re... well mixed. Some loved it. Some don''t. Mostly all freaking out. And me? I am just trying to figure out how these things work. I mean, its cool, but also kinda creepy, y''know? Sudden and all."


    A new voice chimed in, calm and measured. "Metropolis and Gotham aren''t the only cities dealing with this." Wonder woman''s voice carried regal authority. "The National Mall in D.C had transformed as well. The Washington monument no radiate with Alien light, and people are unsure to marvel or flee. Steve is conversing with the military now."


    "And Themyscira?" Batman inquired.


    Diana''s tone softened. "Themyscira remains untouched, but my sisters are wary. They feel this... presence in the air, as if the technology itself is alive."


    There was a pregnant pause in the air. Everyone contemplating the future plans going forward in a changed world. One that was force to change.


    "You are your thoughts about Nion, Diana," Batman asked.


    "He is confident," Her voice carried both respect and caution. "A visionary. But I could sense a storm, a relentless drive to see his vision realized, no matter the cost. It is as dangerous as it is admirable.


    He reminds me of Ares."


    Batman did not answer as his mind tried to create a contingency.


    Superman spoke up, his tone more subdued. "You are right about one thing, Batman. We need to talk with Nion about his plans. We can''t have him turn into a tyrant, or le tanyone else use Krypton''s technology to harm people."


    He couldn''t let the remains of Krypton or its knowledge used to harm people nor oppress them.


    "What if it already is?" Batman countered. "You saw what happened when those crystals landed in the cities. That was a demonstration of power, not generosity. He didn''t ask for permission: He just acted. That''s not how protector behaves. That''s how a ruler behaves."


    "That is true," Diana agreed. "And Nion was never a hero."


    "Then what do we do? Stop him? Tear it all down? Tell these people they can''t have what''s already saving lives?" Barry questioned.


    "We watch. We learn. and prepare. If Nion steps out of line, we need to be ready to contain him." Batman said firmly.


    Superman heart sank. The thought of fighting Zion, someone he had met in person, someone who Kara trusted, Someone who trusted him enough to reveal his secret. Someone who had done so much good already, was almost unbearable. "You think it''ll come to that?"


    "Hope not," Batman admitted. "But if it does, we can''t be caught off guard."


    "We have face many adversaries alone, but we all now stand together. We can least stand a guide to him, to the right path. He would listen," Diana added with confidence.


    Superman shoulder sagged, wight of his heritage pressing down on him. "We''ll keep watching."


    "Guys," Barry''s voice cut in with reluctance. "I don''t know if it has any relevance... However, Zion came to me a weak ago, asking me for a favor." Barry remembered the conversation he had with Zion. "He asked me to protect his kids if the situation every demanded.


    It might be the reason he is forcing Humanities development."


    "Children?" Superman questioned, he had not learned of it.


    "Yes," Barry answered. "He planned on settling in Keystone city."


    "Are you telling me that he did all this to protect his children?" Diana questioned, her tone more of a confirmation.


    Batman kept his thoughts to himself about the subject. "Whatever it is, Keep your eyes open." He said with a tone of finality.


    As the line went quiet, Superman turned his gaze back to the transformed city. He felt both a mixture of pride and dread. Krypton''s technology was their pride but it was also their downfall.


    In the city of Gotham, Robin landed beside Batman, ready to share what he had seen with Nion.


    ...

 120 - Trust

    Ahem.


    I am here to clear somethings out in case people didn''t catch it. About Zion''s relation with Harley.


    The reason Zion immediately went to pulling triggers is because Both Harley and Ivy have yet to fully mature out of their villain phase and Harley still has ''feeling'' for Joker and she is also a psychiatrist.


    Zion care about the kids too much to let them be used a a threat against him.


    And Again, if you have doubts about his actions or if something feels stupid, just comment.


    ---


    Fun Fact: If you look at Comic Superman''s ''S'' its more of a Symbol, like a rune or a glyph than an English letter. Its ''S'' is not actually and S but something that looks like it.


    I know its a shocker(Sarcasm) But think about all the Superman designs where they just use and ''S'' on his chest.


    Its not even accurate.


    Sorry, just wanted to say it. I hadn''t had my appointment yet.


    -----


    The newly transformed Metropolis glowed under the night sky,


    Its crystalline structure illuminating the city in dazzling colors. The streets buzzed with life as people explored the futuristic cityscape. Their faces a mix of awe and apprehension.


    Kara flew above it all, her energon cape fluttering behind her as she surveyed the changes Nion had wrought. Flying above the floating Globe of Daily Planet, she spotted him¡ªKal-El, floating still with his arms crossed, staring out at the transformed skyline.


    "Kal-El," Kara called, her voice carrying warmth. Her tension melting as she saw a familiar face after a long days work.


    Superman turned, his expression softening as he saw her, "Kara."


    She floated next to him, facing the skyline of the changed city. Up close, Superman could see the faint marks of her recent battle¡ªdust covered face, fine sand on her ears. black spots on her new outfit and subtle tension in her movements.


    "You look like you''ve been through a lot," He observed, concern evident in his voice.


    Kara let out a dry laugh, running a hand through her overgrown hair. "You could say that. Kahndaq''s not exactly the friendliest place, especially with Black Adma''s stubbornness."


    Superman''s brow furrowed. "You fought Black Adam?"


    "Yeah," She replied, combing the sand out her hair. She need a bath. "Zion sent me to help stabilize the city after his ''renovations'' started. But Adam wasn''t exactly thrilled about outsiders interfering. Things got... heated."


    Superman''s eyes darkened slightly. "How bad?"


    Kara shrugged, though her voice carried annoyance of the fight. "It was a fight, Kal. He''s stubborn, backed by power. But he stopped before we leveled the place. He was not happy, though.


    Can''t say I relate." Last sentence carried blatant sarcasm.


    Superman gave faint smile. "Black Adam''s always been protective of Kahndaq. He sees it as his responsibility, his kingdom. Any outside interference is a threat to him, no matter the intent.


    Similar to us and Metropolis."


    Kara huffed, crossing her arms. "It''s frustrating to say the least. I can still feel sand on my skin. Its annoying as its protector. Can''t he just accept a help? All I wanted to do was help, to make things better for the people there. And instead, I''m treated like a nuisance."


    Superman place a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "It''s not easy, Kara. Sometimes, even when we''re trying to do the right thing, people won''t see it that way. You''ve just got to stay true to your intentions."


    "Then I should have killed him. Put my hand through his chest and ripped his heart out," She looked up at him, her expression softening. "Thanks, Kal. That helps."


    Kal-El didn''t know what to say about that blood thirsty answer. For a moment, they stood in silence, the bustling city below a sharp contrast to the quiet rooftop.


    "Metropolis looks like... Home," Kara said, changing the subject before Kal-El goes on about his Turth and Justice. They already had a problem with her misting the Human Traffickers. They had agreed on not killing further since Kara could not be even convicted in Moral sense.


    Superman chuckled softly. "That''s one way to put it. Zion''s changes are... dramatic."


    Kara smirked, "Dramatic is an understatement." Her smirk gave way to a sense of nostalgia. "It''s like Krypton decided to make a comeback." She breath in the air, reminiscing memories of her lost home.


    Superman''s smile faded slightly, a hint of unease creeping into his expression. "That''s what worries me."


    Kara raised an eyebrow. "Why?"


    "I don''t know," he admitted, his voice thoughtful. "On the surface, everything seems positive¡ªcleaner cities, advanced technology, safer streets. But this much power, this much control... it''s a lot for one person to handle."


    Kara tilted her head, studying him. "I thought you trusted him?"


    Superman hesitated. "It''s not about trust. It''s about the potential for things to go wrong. Krypton fell because we relied too much on our technology, on our systems. We fell because of our arrogance."This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    "True," Kara agreed. "Zion does have a bloated sense of arrogance."


    "But you trust him still," Superman said, expectant of assurance from Kara.


    But to his dismay, "I don''t trust him one bit," Kara''s answer was anything but assurance. "Last time we stayed in a room, I burn half his face and nearly killed him."


    "You did what now?" Superman could not hid his shock and confusion. "Why?"


    Kara''s lips shut tight, she did not want to answer. She was taken advantage and she didn''t like that at all. But seeing how exasperated Kal-El looked, she decided to give a feasible answer.


    "Training got bit out of hand."


    "Haaa," Superman felt like he was dealing with teenagers, so he returned to the main point. "Again. If Zion''s changes create to much dependency. A veil of false security. What happens if something goes wrong? If he''s not there to fix it? What if we can''t protect the people?"


    She nodded slowly, her tuning gaze thoughtful. "If things go wrong, we can just beat him up. I think two Kryptonian''s should be able to handle his tricks.


    How can Superman lose?"


    Superman smiled faintly. "Maybe, but we have to keep an eye on things. To make sure history doesn''t repeat itself. This is our home now, we will protect it."


    Kara returned his smile, a flicker of warmth passing between them. "When were you the cautious one?"


    "Someone has to be," He replied, his tone light but firm. "And Batman has been grilling me about it before you arrived."


    She laughed softly, the tension in her shoulders easing. "Well, at least, Someone is cautious in your group. I got your back and you got mine."


    "Always," Superman said, his voice steady and reassuring.


    "Okay, I need to go wash up," Kara tapped on his shoulder before flying up. "Later, Kal."


    "Later, Kara," Superman waved as he watched her before a streak.


    He returned his gaze to his City, steeling his resolve to protect it. Even if he would have to fight Zion for it one day. He would protect his city.


    ....


    "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland"


    Isaiah 43:19


    ....


    Gotham Skyline


    A tear in space spat a colorful bird onto a rooftop next to a man cosplaying as bat in a very costly dress. Robin''s boots touched down on the ledge of Gotham''s tallest spire, and he immediately froze, his head turning to take in the sight.


    "What the..?" Robin muttered, stepping closer to the edge. His wide eyes scanning the horizon. "When did this happen? Was I gone for years? How much did I miss?"


    For a moment he doubted he was still in Gotham. If not for his Mentor''s presence, he would fully believe so. The skyline filled with crystalline spires glowed bright against the darkness. Neon veins ran through the streets below, illuminating the city with a cold, otherworldly hue.


    Batman, standing a few feet away with his cape blending with the shadow, didn''t turned to his protege. His face remained fixated on the transformed cityscape. "While you were underground. Only few hours. This happened all around the world."


    "WOW!" Robin let out a whistle, his awe unmistakable. "I mean, is it still Gotham? Its like someone hit the ''upgrade'' button and forgot to stop. Its unnerving."


    "It''s a facade. Beneath all this glass and light, Gotham hasn''t changed, "Batman''s voice was sharp, cutting through Robin''s wonder. "It''s still broken."


    Robin glanced at Batman, his expression doubtful. "It doesn''t look broken to me. The Sentinels are actually doing a great job about crime. The streets are clean, people aren''t afraid to walk around, and people are looking up again.


    You can''t tell me that''s not progress."


    Batman finally turned to face him, his white lenses narrowing. "Progress isn''t always what it seems, Robing. What you''re seeing is the surface. It''s what Nion wants you to see. When everything it bright, you can''t see the shadow hidden underneath."


    "Hmm," Robin folded his arms, his brows furrowed. "You don''t trust him. You never will, fully."


    "Because trust isn''t given," Batman''s voice dropped lower, his words deliberate. "Its earned. And Nion hasn''t earned it. Not yet."


    Robin sighed, stepping back from the edge and leaning against the spire. "He''s done more in weeks than both of us have done in years. Schools, hospitals, cleaner streets... Gotham feels alive for the first time. Doesn''t that count for something?"


    Batman''s jaw tightened, his gaze returning to the city. "It counts for everything. But it doesn''t mean he''s above scrutiny. Someone who acts without accountability is a threat, no matter how noble their intentions seem."


    Robin hesitated, then asked quietly, "Do you think he''s lying about wanting to help?"


    "No," Batman admitted after a pause. "I think he believes he''s helping. But belief isn''t enough. Power like his needs boundaries, or it''ll consume him¡ªand everyone else along with it."


    Robin frowned, looking back at the city. "You''re saying we need to stop him?"


    ''Can we even?'' Robin ask the second part to himself.


    "Not yet," Batman replied. "We watch. We wait. And we prepare. If his vision starts to crumble, Gotham needs to be ready to stand on its own."


    "I don''t think this city would ever," Robin said, studying his mentor for a moment before changing the subject. "Zion took me to some ancient crypt under Gotham today. Deeper than we ever traveled. Said it was the source of the city''s curse."


    Batman''s head snapped toward Robin, his curiosity piqued. "And?"


    Robin shrugged, though his tone was less casual than his body language. "We fought a bunch of creepy shadow monsters. He said they were Revenants? Something about Gotham''s despair taking shape. Then there was this warlock guy who cursed this city, Zion brought back to life just to force him to absorb the curse."


    Batman''s eyes narrowed, his mind racing. "A warlock? Revenants? Did Zion say why he wanted you there?"


    Robin gave a half-smile. "He said it was so I should ''learn Gotham''s true darkness.'' Not gonna lie, it was intense. But I think he was trying to teach me something."


    Batman''s voice grew quieter, more introspective. "And what did you learn?"


    Robin looked out over the city again, his expression thoughtful. "That Gotham''s darkness isn''t just in its criminals or its streets. It''s deeper than that. But it can be fought.


    With cool looking Swords!"


    Robin said cheekily as he flaunted the twin swords and its craftsmanship. "You should have see us fight! Even though its the first time using swords, it was awesome. We dances at the edge of death and exorcised all the revenants and burned their core. Then I fought the warlock alone, he put me in his hallucination and My..."


    Robins words slowed to a halt, his throat going soar. Batman caught to his proteges distress easily, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. Robin looked at his dad''s worried face even though there was no way to say it with his cowl and his stoic expression.


    Robin took a deep breath, "I saw my parents, in circus, on the day they died. But they were alive, happy. They asked me to come with them, but I couldn''t. I have... had moved forward..." Robin felt his breath clog, his words slurring.


    He felt a hand wrap around him, firm and comforting. Batman was hugging him. Robin felt his breath return to him. "I wanted to stay but it was not them. I had to continue. Continue their Legacy. I-I...."


    Bruce felt his son sink into his arm. He didn''t know how to sooth him, he was not an expert in emotions. Finally he spoke, his voice heavy. Not as Batman, but Bruce Wayne, or what remained of the boy in the Alley.


    "You already know the answer, Robin. You had done what I couldn''t. Instead of letting vengeance drive you, you celebrate their lives. The way you life is the proof of their legacy.


    That why you are Robin, something better than Batman."


    Robin finally gathered himself, remembering the day he took his mantle as Robin. He was not ready, never. But now he felt like he was, he was finally ready to don the mantel.


    Batman released his son from his embrace and watched as the teenager wiped his tears, smudging the stain all over.


    "Man, this is awkward," Robin said with a faint smile. "We still doing patrol?"


    Batman didn''t respond, his gaze fixed on the glowing skyline. It was almost dawn, but there was still time. "Okay, but this time take lead."


    Robin looked shocked and confused before running over the ledge and jumping. He then angled his body right before he shot his grappling gun and glided through the air. Batman followed after as Batman and Robin continued their work.


    Gotham never rests.


    Nor do they.

 121 - Admission

    "So, Mr. Zion. You wish to enroll Cassandra Tennyson and Rachel Tennyson into Keystone Academy, correct?"


    Mr. Harold Gayson, the head administrator of Keystone Academy, star across the desk from Zion. The man was in his late fifties with silver-streak hair and his aged eyes hidden behind rimless glasses. The two sat in the orderly office, lined up with shelves of academic awards and framed certificates, a testament to the school''s reputation.


    Zion had came formally, wearing off white shit and black pants with the dreaded office shoes. He was more acting more formal than when he negotiated their surrender terms with the UN.


    "That''s right," Zion gave a polite nod. "I believe this institution will offers the balance of structure and opportunity they''ll need. Especially, human interactions with their peers."


    Mr. Gayson lifted his piercing gaze from the document spread across his desk, and scrutinized Zion carefully. "Keystone Academy is indeed one of the best, but I must admit your case is... unique."


    "How so?" Zion asked, maintaining a calm demeanor.


    "Well," Mr. Gayson gestured toward the paper before him. "It''s not often we come across such peculiar applicant. Not only your Guardianship documents were filed so... recently, And to mention the rater unconventional nature of your submission."


    Zion smile didn''t waver. "I assure you, all the documents are in order."


    Mr. Gayson picked up one of the papers, his brow furrowing as he read. "Yes, I see that. Legal custody, health records, even proof of residency. Everything seems... impeccable."


    "It is," Zion replied smoothly.


    The administrator set the paper down, his sharp eyes locking with Zion''s. "Please forgive my curiosity, but you don''t exactly fit the profile of a father to two preteen. May I ask you to elaborate on it?"


    "Of course," Zion waved as if the subject was of no importance. "Things happened when I was young and dumb, and here we are. They grew up with my uncle and aunt while my ''wife'' and I did the growing up."


    "Should have been difficult for you," Mr. Gayson did inquire further as it was not a subject one would like to share.


    "Not exactly," Zion answered, his smile formal with a hint of sadness. "We weren''t exactly mature enough to understand it all. Again, too young and dumb. But My only regret it that I couldn''t be there for them, as emotionally.


    Now that I have the opportunity and means, I''ve taken it upon myself to provide them with stability and guidance." "


    "I understand, Mr. Zion," Mr. Gayson nodded with fatherly understanding before continuing. "Can I inquire you about their mother? Is she involved in their lives? As you know both parents presence in needed for a child''s healthy development"


    "Kara..." Zion sighed, breaking his composure. "Unlike me, she is still coming to terms with the responsibility."


    Mr. Gayson studied Zion for a moment longer before nodding. "Understandable. It''s good that you are putting in the effort. But, Let''s discuss your capacity as their guardian." The man still felt uncomfortable calling the young man before him a father.


    "Do you have a steady income? How are your work schedules? Are you able to have a constant presence in their lives? Are you able to respond to a sudden situation?"


    "I have a steady income with a back up deposit to last a year. It is relatively free and adjustable. I am able to as I only need to clock in 40 hours a week. I will respond unless I am in a life or death situation," Zion answered each question, calmly and respectfully.


    "And your profession?"


    Zion paused briefly, stringing his word carefully. "Chief Engineer in Wayne Enterprises, I work in technology and innovation."


    "Gotham? That''s a long way from Keystone," Mr. Gayson raised a skeptical eyebrow.


    "It is," Zion answered simply. "But anything for kids safety."


    The administrator simply nodded and continued, "And you''ve rented a residence here in Keystone City?"


    "Bought it, under my name," Zion confirmed. "It''s close enough to the school for convenience and offers them a stable home life."


    Mr. Gayson leaned forward, clasping his hands together. "Keystone Academy prides itself on more than just academic excellence. We also value transparency and community. Your circumstances are, as I said, unique. Is there anything else you''d like to share about your intentions for Cassandra and Rachel?"


    Zion''s gaze turned serious. "My intentions are simple; to give them a normal life. I want them to have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive without being ashamed of who they are."


    Mr. Gayson softened slightly at Zion''s sincerity. He adjusted his glasses and glanced at the girl''s file gain. "And they''ve both been home-schooled prior to this?"


    "That''s correct," Zion answered. "But they''re ready for more structured environment. I believe Keystone Academy can provide that."


    The administrator nodded slowly. "Our curriculum is rigorous, and our standards are high. It won''t be easy for them to adjust, especially given their unconventional backgrounds."


    "They''re resilient," Zion replied confidently.


    Mr. Gayson tapped his fingers on the desk thoughtfully. "One final question, Mr. Zion. Why Keystone academy? You could have chosen any school, given your resources."


    Zion''s smile returned. "Keystone Academy is renowned for nurturing both intellect and character. That''s what they need¡ªan environment that challenges them and supports their growth."Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    The administrator regarded Zion for a long moment before finally nodding. "Very well, we''ll proceed with their admission."


    Zion stood, extending his hand. "Thank you, Mr. Gayson. I appreciate your understanding."


    Mr. Grayson shook Zion''s hand, his grip firm. "I''ll expect them both for testing on Monday. And, Mr. Zion¡ªwelcome to Keystone City."


    As Zion left the office, his smile deepened.


    ...


    "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them.


    ...


    The late afternoon sun cast a warm, golden glow over the modest two-story house Zion had bought in Key stone city.


    It stood on a quiet street lines with trees, their branches swaying gently in the breeze. The house was simple yet inviting, with a small porch and a garden that had been left to grow wild.


    Zion parked the car in the driveway, stepped out and stretched. "Well, here we are," He said turning to Cassandra and Rachel as they climbed out of the care.


    The three cats looked at their new home with guarded expression. Rachel carrying Eon, showed him the new house. The girls quickly pulled up their hoodie like they were vampires under the sun.


    Zion chuckled, fishing the keys out of his pocket. "Come on, Let''s check it out."


    He led the way up the short path to the front door, unlocking and pushing it open. Inside, the house smelled faintly of fresh pain and wood polish. The furniture was all set¡ªa couch, few chairs, a coffee table, a dinning set. Living room opened into a kitchen with stainless steel appliances that gleamed under the light.


    "Not bad, right?" Zion remarked, stepping aside to let the girls in.


    Cassandra, Rachel and Eon strode into the living room scanning, splitting up as they scanned their new home. Cass checked the place for dust, Eon found the sunny window to sleep on, Rachel wandered into the kitchen, opening Cabinets and inspecting the fridge.


    (A habit she learned from the humans. Also a reconnaissance for their late night escapades, involving Rachel, Cass, Harley, Ivy dragged reluctantly, Nora and Master of Sneaking Eon.


    Zai and Zion knows but never address it.)


    "Stock ready," He replied with a smirk. "Figured you wouldn''t want to start off with an empty pantry."


    Zion let the girls explore the house at their own pace, moving upstairs to check out the bedrooms. Zion followed them, leaning casually against the door frame as they peeked into the first room.


    "This one''s yours, Cass," Zion said, gesturing to a room with a single bed, a desk and a window that overlooked the backyard. (With careful placements for her to sneak off.)


    Cassandra stepped inside, her gaze lingering on the bookshelves and the small lamp on the desk. "Its fine," She signed to Zion fluently, clearly unimpressed.


    Rachel moved to the next room, which was similar but had darker curtains and a slightly larger bed. "Mine?"


    "Yup," Zion confirmed. "I only got the minimal stuff, but you can redecorate however you want.


    And mine''s down the hall," He add, pointing to a room at the end. "There is also a basement. So if you need anything, you know where to find me."


    The girls exchanged a silent glance, then nodded.


    "Alright," Zion said, clapping his hands together. "Why don''t we get unpacked and settled in? I will order us dinner like normal single dad. Chinese?"


    *RING*RING*


    The three heads snapped in the direction of the doorbell. Rachel relaxed after moment, Cass followed her movements.


    "I will go meet our neighbors," Zion hurried downstairs, his footsteps clacking against the wooden stairs. A broad smile spread across his face as he opened the door to reveal two familiar figures.


    "Barda, Scott," Zion greeted warmly, stepping aside to let them in.


    Barda was a towering woman, her figure imposing and her presence impossible to miss. She wore casual clothes that blended her with the humans, but they did little to diminish her aura of strength. Scott looked more human that Zion, he had that light trimmed beard and messy hair, He had an easygoing smile and relaxed demeanor, just like that homebody uncle next door.


    "Afternood, Zion," Scott said, stepping inside with a quick glance around the house. He could already tell that the place would become a fortress if it wanted to. "Nice place."


    "Coffee? Tea? I even have hot chocolate for refined palates," Zion asked as he closed the door behind them.


    "Coffee''s fine," Scott said, while Barda waves her hand.


    "I will pass," She said, her tone polite decline as she surveyed the living room. "Hmm, not your usual style, Zion. Where are the little ones?"


    Zion smirked, heading to the kitchen to prepare their drinks. "I wanted something normal. You got to clime out of your castle and live with people once in a while to understand them. Moreover, the girls need more stable environment."


    "Wish Darksied could see the groveling hell he had created," Barda remarked.


    "He is not exactly a bundle of joy," Zion replied as he returned with Scott''s coffee.


    The sounds of footsteps came from upstairs as Cassandra and Rachel rushed down the steps and jumped on Barda like monkeys. "Barda!" They greeted.


    "How are you doing, little ones?" Barda asked, a warm smile spreading across her lips.


    "Good," Rachel answered while Cass just beamed a smile.


    "They just love her," Scott commented, taking the coffee of Zion''s envious hands. Zion could only sigh.


    "Girls," Zion said, attracting the attention of the children. "Meet our new neighbors, Barda and Scott. They live a few houses down,"


    Barda lower the girls gently, her posture careful. "You can visit anytime," She said with an inviting smile.


    Scott raised a hand in a friendly wave. "Hey there. Don''t worry, we''re the fun neighbors."


    The girls only gave him faint smile and didn''t reply.


    "They just love her," Zion repeated his comment. "You just got to be a fun uncle."


    "Only when Barda lets me," Scott replied with a wink, earning a playful glare from his wife.


    They girls turned to him, confused.


    "I still can''t believe you did what you did," Zion joke. "I could only imagine Barda pummeling you, not laugh at your jokes.


    Scott grinned. "What can I say? It''s a gift."


    The group moved into the living room. Zion and Scott sat on the couch while Barda leaned against the wall, her arms crossed. The girls hovered near her.


    "So," Zion began, addressing Barda and Scott, "What do you think of Keystone so far?"


    "Weirdly peaceful," Barda admitted, her eyes drifting to the window. "Its a nice place to start."


    Scott nodded in her agreement. "And the people seem nice. I mean, the guy at the coffee shop called me ''bud'', so that''s a win in my book. Its heaven compared to Apokolips."


    Zion chuckled, "You''ll fit right in. Just take thinks slowly, it will be all right. It''s Zion guarantied."


    Barda''s gaze shifted to Cassandra and Rachel. "And how are you two handling the move?


    "Its fine," Rachel answered for the both of them, feeling a bit nervous.


    "That''s normal," Barda answered, placing her hand on her head. "Moving to new place is not easy."


    "Speaking of neighborhood," Scott said, turning to Zion. "What''s the real reason you wanted us close? This isn''t just about being neighbors, is it?"


    "Actually it is," Zion leaned back with a smile. "With Harley and Ivy moving back to Gotham, The Fries moving to Russia, and others returning to their own lives. I wanted someone the girls know to be nearby, someone they could rely on."


    Barda nodded, her expression understanding. "You think trouble''s coming?"


    "It will," Zion replied, his tone serious. "It always does. But hey, life has to go on."


    Scott sipped his coffee, his easygoing demeanor unwavering. "Well, you''ve got us. And for what it''s worth, this place feels like a good start for all of us."


    Zion smiled, glancing at the girls, who were quietly observing the exchange. "Yeah. A good start."


    After some more light conversation, Barda and Scott stood to leave.


    "Let us know if you need anything," Zion said, clapping Scotts on the shoulder and handed him a large envelop.


    "Same to you," Scott replied taking the envelope.


    As they stepped out onto the porch, Barda turned back and waved at the girls. Zion gave them a final nod. Barda and Scott headed down the street toward their new home. Zion watched them go before turning back to the girls, who were still standing in the living room.


    "Alright," he said, clapping his hands together. "Now that you''ve met the neighbors, let''s finish settling in."


    Cassandra and Rachel exchanged a glance before following him, the faintest hint of a smile tugging at their lips.


    For the first time in a long while, things felt... almost, weirdly, normal.

 122 - Grilling

    Merry Christmas Kids, This is my gift since, got non for anyone.


    Luke 2:8-14, which says, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord


    ....


    September Saturday Sun beamed on the backyard of Zion''s home, casting warm glow on the freshly mowed lawn and the grill stationed near the patio. Smoke curled up in the air as Zion navigated the intricacies of the grill.


    He stood at the grill, wearing an apron that read, "Grill Master of the Omniverse." Beside him were many materials prepared for his experiments. Marinated meat, vegetables, and few sauce and side dishes. Some exotic dishes from M''arzz.


    Beside him was Eon who laid on the patio while eyeing the delicacies. The girls moved around the yard, arranging the plates and utensils for the guests. Ship, in her wolf form, bounced around the yard happily, helping the girls carry plates, condiments and drinks.


    Zion chuckled as he watched them all. He then saw Cass focus on him before she signed. "You know how to? Need Help?"


    "I can handle it," Zion assured. "I know what I am doing."


    He didn''t.


    He had only eaten when Mark grilled, never cooked. But he had his cheats. He pulled the experience he need from the SoulBownds. His body began to adjust itself, his movement more smooth and intended. He easily got the grill under the control and began to display his culinary mastery.


    "Why are we doing this?" Rachel questioned, carrying a place of lettuce.


    "To smooth out things," Zion explained, placing a patty on the grill. "I am staying on Earth and I don''t want people to be on edge because of me."


    "Will people even show up?" Cass signed, appearing silently next to Rachel.


    "They will," Zion answered firmly.


    Zion had already invited all his ''colleagues'', the whole of Justice League, Barda and Scott, Kara. No capes, all in their civilian fit. He invited them and no one had any authority to refuse.


    Hey, you better attend the Emperor''s Grill party! Unless you want to be labeled traitor.


    Clark was more than ready to have a talk in a house party. Barry was mostly excited to meet his nieces. Wonder Woman gracefully accepted the invite. J''onzz said yes and wanted to see how the girls were doing.


    Bruce grunted in response, but he will show up. He also invited Alfred and Robin.


    Hal was out of world as GL, so he will not be attending.


    Zion began to make the meal as guest would would be arriving soon.


    ...


    As the afternoon wore on, the backyard began to fill with familiar faces.


    Barda and Scott arrived first, carrying a dish Scot had made himself. They greeted the girls.. Scott helped Zion with the grill while girls show Barda their newly decorated rooms.


    Second to arrive were the Supers, Clark and Kara. Clark was well Clark Kent, old brown coat over his checker shirt, large blue jean, and his iconic big glasses. Kara was more stylish, leather jacket over light blue shirt and jean with tears on them.


    "What, rat got you jean?" Zion asked as he eye it. "You want a spare?"


    Kara looked like she was about to answer him, but stopped herself from the trouble. "Where are the kids?"


    "Upstairs with Barda," Zion answered.


    Kara walked past him without further interactions.


    Zion turned to Clark, extending for a hand shake. "Its nice to meet you, Kent."


    Clark returned a firm handshake, "It''s nice to meet you too, Zion."


    "Make yourself at home," Zion gestured to the mismatched chair he had borrowed from the neighbors.


    "Oh, a new friend," Scott appeared and handed Clark a place with grilled ribs, veggies and condiments, he had meticulously prepared. "Nice to meet you. I am Scott."


    "Clark," Clark gave an awkward greeting to Scott''s enthusiasm. "Oh, here, Pie from Bibbo''s. Sorry, I didn''t know what to get."


    "Its fine, Clark," Zion accepted.


    "Nervous one, aren''t you?" Scott teased as he handed a can of pepsi to Clark.


    "Scott''s our neighborhood magician," Zion added, turning to Scott. "You will love Barry and Bruce, they are will fit right in with you."


    "Its always a pleasure to meet new faces," Scott said with a bit of showmanship.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    Clark''s nervousness melted as a genuine smile formed on his face. Mostly thinking about the interaction between Bruce and Scott. Clark carried his plate to the table, only to meet Sir Eon who was taking his rest on the table. He meowed an approval at Clark before he returned to licking his paw.


    Before things could get more awkward for him, Diana arrived in a pleasant sundress, light green with floral patterns running down to ankle. She had the princess part right even through she still exuded dominance with her stature. She carried a basket of freshly baked bread that seemed impossibly warm and fragrant.


    "Diana, thank you for coming," Zion greeted as he received the basket. "Where is Steve?"


    "Something came up," Diana answered, a bit of disappointment in her tone. "He was sorry for not attending."


    "It''s fine," Zion shrugged as he took out his phone and dial. The call instantly connected. "Steve Trevor, get here or I will nuke the base you are hiding in," He said with absolute seriousness before cutting the call.


    Diana raised a brow at his antic. Zion just smiled mischievously, "Got to flex the power once in a while."


    "Here is your plate, your highness," Scott handed her an a plate elegantly, fully cooked ribeye stake surround lettuce and condiments in artistic mastery.


    Diana took the plate with curious expression pointed at Scott. Scott gave a formal bow. "Scott the Magicain at your service, Milady."


    "Nice to meet you, Scott the magician." Diana answered.


    "Its my honor," Scott answered.


    Diana just smiled as she walked to the table and sat next to Clark. Ship strode to her, balancing a cup of blueberry Ice cream on her head. Diana looked at the Alien wolf and took the cup of ice cream. She also gave the dog the pat she deserved.


    Yes, she was also judged by Sir Eon as a welcomed guest.


    J''onzz arrived third, well, he materialized on the yard itself as he landed. He too was in his human form. "Hello, Zion," He greeted as he handed the desserts he had bought.


    "Hello," Zion greeted simply, there was no need for words with Manhunter.


    "Hi, J''honn," Scott greeted as he handed him the plate of Martian dish made with Zion grilling. "Its good to see you, buddy."


    "Me too, Scott."


    Martian gave them a nod and joining the other. Sir Eon recognized him and on gave him a greeting meow.


    Bruce arrived next with Dick and the best butler of the multiverse, Alfred Pennyworth. Bruce wore a black suit, his expression relaxed(for Batman). Dick looked around excitedly as he smelled the aroma of Zion''s cooking. Alfred followed behind them with his usual composed grace, carrying a small box of finely crafted desserts.


    "Bruce," Zion said, extending a hand.


    "Zion," Bruce replied, his tone even.


    Dick stepped forward,"Thanks for inviting us."


    Zion smiled warmly. "Dick, welcome. Alfred, always a pleasure. Do you still don''t want to quit?"


    "Sorry, Master Zion, it is my life long gig," Alfred answered with his usual half-sarcastic tone.


    "Unfortunate," Zion commented. "But you should talk with your daughter more. Don''t regret it later, Pennyworth."


    Alfred raised a brow while Dick looked like he just saw a unicorn. Bruce could only frown as not many know of Alfred''s daughter. However, Zion was not threatening, but a giving a genuine advice.


    Scott remained back as he could feel the electric tension between the newcomers and Zion. Zion handed them each a plate. Sir Eon gave Bruce a warning purr, but accepted him nonetheless. Dick and Alfred were Eon approved.


    The table quickly filled with chatter as Dick pestered Alfred about his daughter while Bruce talked with Clark, Diana and John. They discreetly kept an eye on Zion and Scott.


    Barry sped at last, carrying a bag of snacked and soda. "Sorry, I''m late. Traffic!"


    Zion raised an eyebrow.


    Barry gave a nervous chuckle. "Okay, fine. I lost track of time."


    "I should add a watch to your suit," Zion muttered.


    "So you are Barry?" Scott said as he handed him a place. "Something tell me we are going to be buddies."


    "Barry meet Scott, neighborhood magician," Zion introduced, placing a few more ribs and stake on Barry''s plate.


    "Magician, sure seem to run into recently," Barry joked, shaking hands with Scott. "Its nice to meet you Scott, but now I am going to fill my stomach." He carried the pale with hunger in his eyes.


    "Sure," Scott returned the smile.


    Barry started digging in. Zion asked Scott to call the girls while he prepared their food before carrying them to the table. Zion cut a small meat and placed it for Eon and threw a trinket for Ship.


    Barry was recounting a disastrous attempt at baking cookies, while Martian Manhunter took note. Diana talked to Alfred about the finer points of tea preparation( Don''t know how they got there). Bruce was grilling Clark about his latest fight with one of his rouges.


    Clark turned to Zion. escaping Bruce''s scolding. "You have been quiet. Something on your mind?"


    Zion shrugged, his eyes on the grill. "Busy week. Moving to Keystone. Settling the girls into the school. Getting them school supplies, its was tiring. You don''t know the trouble unless you have a kid on your own."


    Bruce''s sharp eyes focused on Zion, but before he could ask any questions, the back door swung open. Barda and Kara came carried the children, both of them beaming. Zion was green with envy but he could do nothing about the situation.


    "This is Barda, Scott''s wife and guardian," Zion said teasingly.


    "She is my angel," Scott confessed.


    But when others saw Barda, they all knew that she was not a normal neighbor. I mean, the woman was tall, taller than Wonder Woman, and built like a tank. Her presence domineering and filled with battle bound.


    But looked more like a guardian as she gently carried Rachel to Zion side. "Nice to meet you everyone," She greeted, focusing on Wonder Woman. The two exchanged an acknowledging nod.


    "I think I should introduce them to you all," Zion spoke up, pointing to the girl. "These are my daughters, Rachel, ten years old, a bit shy around new people. Cassandra, eight years old, signs but learning to speak,"


    Both looked hesitant under the many gazes, but Rachel gathered herself to give them a wave while. Cass signed in confidence of Kara. "Nice to meet you."


    "Nice to meet you too," Bruce answered, followed by others.


    Barda and Kara carried them to te table and placed them down so they could eat. Barda sat with Scott while Kara next to Diana. Zion looked at all of them and felt that some people were missing.


    But he knew he could not bring them into this.


    "Aren''t they a bundle of joy?" Zion shook his thoughts away.


    "Wait, I know I might be wrong, but you are not secretly in your 40s, right?" Barry question, resulting in chuckle from other. Except Bruce.


    Zion join in the laugh, "No flash, I am not secretly in my 40s. I kidnapped them."


    "Please tell me you didn''t," Barry execrated a shocked expression and turned to the kid. "Kid, if your are in trouble blink twice. This uncle barry will take you home, auntie Iris would love you both."


    "You can''t have them, Barry," Zion joked as he pulled Cass into protection. "Go find someone else Children to steal. You can ask Bruce on his masterclass of adopting children."


    "Yeah," Barry finally realised. "We got Bat junior with us."


    "Hi, I am Dick," Dick introduced himself to the girls.


    "Its good to have you guys here," Zion said raising his soda. "For a better day."


    "For a better day."


    ...


    The party continued into the evening,


    The conversations died down as everyone settled into comfortable silence. The group settled on the patio as they watched the sun slowly vanish.


    Bruce turned to Zion, finally having the chance to question him. "The Crystallized cities."

 123 - Elephant

    The clinking of utensils slowed to a halt as an eerie tension filled the atmosphere.


    Rachel and Cass didn''t know what was going on, but knew enough to not interact nor draw attention. Kara, Barda, and Scott understood the situation and remained silent. Even Barry, who had been wolfing down his third plate of food, paused mid-bite.


    Zion raised an eyebrow, sipping his soda. "What about them?"


    Bruce frowned, leaning forward with his hands clasped in front of him. The facade of Bruce Wayne washed away as Batman took his place. "You turned every major city on Earth in into crystal fortress overnight. Without warning. Without discussion.


    Care to explain?"


    "The cities need an upgrade. They were flawed, inefficient, fragile and unsafe," Zion answered flatly, twirling the bone. "New empire and all."


    Batman''s eyes narrowed, "An unapproved decision. You didn''t ask. You just acted."


    "I did because I can. Because I should, Why do I need permission?" Zion questioned, his tone sharp.


    "Why should you not?" Batman questioned.


    "Because I am your ruler," Zion frowned, placing the clamper down with force. "I don''t need permission to improve my empire."


    The subtle tension thickened in an instant. The adults tensed under Zion''s sharper tone. Jumpy for a confrontation that might be inevitable. Sparks flew in the air as Zion level his gaze with Batman''s.


    *Clank*


    A sharp metallic clank cut the tense atmosphere like a hot knife through butter. The heads that were focused on Zion and Batman snapped in the direction of the sound. Rachel whose fork had slipped looked nervous a she tried to sink into the chair.


    Due to her empathy, she was affected most when the atmosphere tensed. Her body froze as the tension spiked, causing her spoon to slip.


    Zion saw her curling figure and took a deep breath. This was not acceptable, to lose control of his emotions. Not closely after he removed the psychological suppression. He took a step towards her, his left placing firmly on her shoulder while he picked the fork back.


    "Sorry," He said softly, both to Rachel and Cass. He at least looked guilty for placing them in this situation.


    He looked to the others as he made a mess out of Rachel''s hair. "I didn''t have time. The cities need to be prepared before I bring the kids to earth." Zion reveal one of his reason. "How could I bring them to a city, a country, or a planet where I could not completely assure someone''s safety. That included everyone, every child, every woman or man."


    "Nonetheless an unapproved change. One that plunged the world in Chaos. one that looked like a power moved," Batman stated with a chilling grim. "It''s a breach of trust. How do you expect to be trusted when you do whatever you wish? You could have waited, explained, and prepared the public instead of all of this."


    "I acted because this change was necessary, lives were at stake," Zion answered calmly. "People were dying across the world every hour, someone is suffering because of our inadequacies.


    Would you have me wait?"


    Clark finally spoke up, his tone softer. "It''s not about waiting. It''s about understanding. We are grateful for the changes. But these cities¡ªYou''ve change the foundation of our world in a day. People will need time to adjust. To feel safe in their homes."


    Barry nodded. "Yeah, Dude. It''s like... If i decided to replace every streetlight in Central City with neon speed trails. Cool idea, but I''d probably get yelled at."


    "That would be funny," Zion let out a light chuckle. "But I can''t wait for the progress to catch up, not when I have the ability to accelerate it. It it were to progress at normal phase, it will take a century before there is a significant change, not will all the freaking idiots who calls themselves the world''s smartest men hording all their advance tech.


    Convincing themselves that the world was not ready, waiting for the world to catch up to them. From Luthor to Star labs, no one wants to share what could help millions. The world needed progress, not it the future but now."


    Batman''s voice cut cold, "And what happens when someone exploits this progress? When this ''gift'' become a weapon?"


    "Then I''ll handle it, at least more effectively then you," Zion said firmly.


    "That''s not an assurance," Diana''s voice broke the conversation. "We''re not here to argue. But we need transparency. Trust goes both ways, Zion. How can we trust when you keep us in the dark?"


    Zion sighed, his gaze drifting to the shimmering Skyline. "My intentions are to protect and improve. Nothing More. Nothing less."


    "Protection?" Batman''s cut in again, interrogating. "What kind of protection justifies taking over the infrastructure of an entire planet?"


    "One that has a Superman," Zion gave him a hard stare, "The kind that ensures people survive the battle we bring to their doorstep. Every time you fight, it''s the little guys who suffer. Civilians caught in crossfire, homes destroyed, lived upended.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    How many people have died due Fear toxin and Joker Venom. How many aliens have swashed human. How many meta have killed others without a care. Its not enough to just stop a villain, Batman. Its not enough!


    These shelter¡ªthese cites¡ªare designed to withstand anything. Even if we fail, they won''t."


    Clark frowned, his brows knitting together. "Why not tell us? Why keep it a secret until the last moment? We could have help you in assuring the people."


    "You shouldn''t side with me, not publicly." Zion hesitated for a moment before answering. "It was a split second decision." Zion could not look more embarrassed. "I was not going to do it until new year, but Atlantis was getting active. The kids also wanted to come to Earth.


    The crystals were already prepared, so I took the chance. Its all good now that whole planet is safe."


    Zion finally reveal his embarrassing reason.


    "What?" Clark and Barry could not look more flabbergasted.


    "You just went on and on about protecting but you just made a split second decision?" Batman could not get more angry, his blood pressure was rising. To learn that the whole world was flipped upside down by child''s impulse was infuriating.


    "That''s your reason," Barry asked, so baffled that a smile formed on his lips.


    Alfred smiled and John were smiling like a parent looking at their mischievous child. Diana was smiling purely amused, Scott and Dick were chuckling hard. Barda and Kara could not look more disappointed.


    Diana kept smiling, but her voice firm. "While the result is acceptable, Zion, it doesn''t excuse acting unilaterally. You should have talked with us. We stand for unity and safeguarding humanity. We''re a team."


    "I understand," Zion replied. "I am sorry that I didn''t tell y''all, But the cities are safe, they can''t be controlled by anyone but me. They''re self-sustaining, adaptive, and designed to protect the people in them. That''s all."


    Clark sighed, running a hand through his hair. "We just want to make sure this doesn''t go too far, Zion. You''ve done good things, but we can''t afford to be blindsided."


    "Okay, Okay," Zion looked at him, guilt flickering across his face. "I should have told you guys. But trust me when I say this: I am not going anywhere. I''ll be staying here until Rachel and Cass grow up. You''ll fine me in Keystone if you need me."


    Bruce''s eyes narrowed slightly. "And when they''re grown?"


    Zion shrugged. "Then you''ll probably have to deal with me as a grumpy old neighbor."


    The tension eased slightly, a few chuckles rippling around the table.


    "I hope you know what you''re doing," Clark said finally.


    Zion nodded, his tone earnest. "I''ll keep you in the loop from now on." He looked around the table. "Deal?"


    A reluctant nod from Bruce. A thumbs-up from Barry. Diana''s approving smile.


    "Deal," Clark finally said.


    "Now lets focus on having a good evening," Zion suggested. "How has it been for the Justice League?"


    Other began to share stories about their adventure. The tension calmed down to a cheerful atmosphere. Steve arrived later and got a bong from Zion, and was handed a file for him to deliver personally.


    Kara and Barda took the girls inside because they were tried and full. Scott talked with Barry, both sharing how they met the love of their lives. Scott kept Apokolips out of his story.


    The evening slowly wore on and the guests began to leave. Barry zipped off, promising to bring better snacks next time. Steve and Diana followed, each offering Zion a firm handshake and words of caution.


    Bruce lingered, his gaze heavy until he departed with Dick and Alfred. Clark remained, standing beside Zion as they looked out over the transformed skyline.


    "It''s a lot to take in," Clark admitted.


    Zion nodded. "I know."


    "You''re not alone," Clark added, placing a hand on Zion''s shoulder.


    Zion gave a faint smile. "Thanks, Superman."


    He gave a final nod before he flew away into the night sky. Zion stood alone in the backward, taking in the air.


    "You convinced them," Kara spoke, the door closing behind her. "What happened?"


    "?" Zion turned to her, his brows raised.


    "Your emotions," Kara stated. "You got snapped."


    Zion gave her a cheeky smile instead of answering. Kara stared at him for a moment but didn''t ask. She just floated away, following Kal-El.


    "Catch you later, Kara," Zion waved before muttering silently.


    "Prrrr*


    Eon leapt onto his shoulder, purring softly. Zion stroked the cat''s fur, a faint smile tugging at his lips. He whistled to call Ship and walked into the house. He found Barda seated next to sleeping Rachel and Cassandra, Scott standing as he talked with her.


    "Its funny how a guy who is fast is always late," Scott joked and turned to him.


    "They should have been tired," Barda stated, standing up from the couch. "I will help."


    "No its, fine," Zion stopped her. "Its already getting late, both of you should go home. I will handle things here."


    Barda didn''t object, "Take care, Zion. Call us if you need us."


    "See you later, kid," Scott tapped on his shoulders as the two took off. Zion saw them off before he returned to take the kids to the bedroom.


    The two were cuddle together. Rachel slept in Cass''s tight embrace while Rachel held her hand tight. They looked peaceful in each others warmth, one of shared burden. Zion stood before them, looking at how peaceful they looked compared to their lives.


    He could not help but feel anger raising to a boiling point.


    "Should I just kill all the criminals?" Zion muttered to himself. "God, why have you given these animals free will? To know good and evil, they yet behave worse than animals. Why do you want to forgive them? Why do you love them so?"


    Zion gathered himself and walked forward, ready to lift them both up.


    "Urg," Rachel groaned, her furrowed her brows. Cass let out a small noise as her hands tightened around Rachel. Both of their expression was that of fear.


    A nightmare.


    Zion could feel the psychic energy leaking out of Rachel, dark and depressing. He immediately moved to grasp their hand. Rachel was having one of her nightmares, one that affected all those around her.


    Cassandra''s presence soothed her heart but trauma cannot be erased easily.


    Omnitrix flash a soft light, changing Zion''s DNA. He eyes turned pitch black as his skin turned white. His five fingers turned into four, and massive. Zion morphed his Martian form into humans and began to emit a calming psychic wave. The wave slowly brought calm to the children''s mind, calm enough for her mind to fight it on its own.


    He could not enter and defeat their demons, it will make them weak. But that doesn''t mean that he would give them a helping hand. He waited for a moment for their mind to fully tranquil before lifting them in a bubble of TK.


    He carried them to Rachel''s room and laid them down, not separating them. He covered them with a thick blanket. Place a hand on their head and prayed for them.


    "May they grow in wisdom and stature, finding favor with God, as Jesus did (Luke 2:52). Guard their hearts and minds with Your peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). Guide their steps and make their paths straight, as they trust in You with all their hearts (Proverbs 3:5-6).


    Surround them with Your angels, keeping them safe from harm (Psalm 91:11). Fill them with the knowledge of Your truth and love, and may they shine as lights in the world, bringing glory to Your name (Matthew 5:16).


    Amen."


    Instead of returning to his room, he walked straight to the basement.


    "Flick*


    The light switch on bright, illuminating the crystalline underground. The basement was set to be his workshop and it was filled with parts need for his next project. Especially the old black police box he had gotten from a second hand shop.


    ["You sure you wanna build this by hand?"]


    "I sure do," Zion smiled, "She needs a human touch."

 123 - Phantom

    The crystalline towers of Gotham gleamed under the pale moonlight, shining in an other worldly glow. Neon signs painted patches of color across the streets below, blending with the soft golden glow of streetlights.


    The city had settled into an uneasy harmony, adapting to its crystalline transformation and the silent, watchful presence of Sentinels patrolling alongside human officers.


    Above it all, on the jagged edge of a gothic tower, Batman stood vigilant. His cowl''s lenses scanned the city below while his gauntlet projected a 3D holographic map of Gotham. Points blinked in seemingly random locations, a puzzle waiting to be solved.


    For the past two weeks, Gotham had been plagued by a chilling mystery.


    Several disappearances.


    Random victims.


    No shared location.


    No connections between them.


    Each one sooner than the last.


    Witnesses had reported seeing the victims simply vanish, turning into nothingness. No clue as to why or how. Leaving the case a mystery, for him to solve.


    These victims had no connection in between them, most disappearing before many eyewitness. He had analyzed and rechecked the location several times, but all of it resulted in nothing. No-thing.


    No trace of Spatial distortion, Zeta beam nor molecular phasing. Not even magical particles were found on the crime scene. He had tried to form a semblance of connection between the incidents, not even the Bat-Computer could formulate the randomness of the event.


    The possibility of an abduction, as hostages or test subjects of some criminal. Yet no criminal popped up in his radar. But he never stopped, even if all direction of his search hit dead end


    However,


    Today, he was out in the city due to a tip he received from someone or Something named G.C(Gotham City). Who revealed itself to be the Artificial intelligence that govern the very city he swore to protect. This intelligence had took notice of the disappearances and had deduced its patterns, informing him of the coordinates of the next few location of such events.


    Even though he did not completely trust the said AI nor its creator, he followed up on its intel. To save the next victim from being claimed and gather data.


    From his perch, he watched the street below, the quiet hum of city filling the night air. The location G.C had identified was a narrow ally wedged between two building complex. Pedestrians moved about, unaware of the looming danger.


    A civilian caught his attention¡ªa man in his late thirties squatting down as he gathered his spilled groceries. The man gathered his grocery in one arm as he reached for his phone, unaware of the danger that he was in.


    His figure began to shimmer like glass, slowly turning transparent.


    Batman''s heart raced as he leapt from the tower, his cape billowing as he dove toward the street. He extended his grapnel, firing it to adjust his trajectory. The shimmering intensified as the man turned, with confusing etched in his face. Pedestrians, who saw the man turning into nothing, watched in shock.


    Batman hit the ground running, reaching out to grab the man''s arm. But his glove hands passed straight through as if grasping smoke. The man''s eye widened in terror as his body fully turned transparent, phasing out of reality.


    Turning into Nothingness.


    Batman froze, staring at the empty space where the man had stood. His jaw tightened beneath his cowl. He had failed another. He was here and he failed to save the man. As Batman wallowed, a shadow caste on him.


    He turned to shadows originator, its glowing eyes fixed on the area where the man had vanished. The sentinel stationed at this


    "Why didn''t you help?" Batman''s voice was a low growl, edged with frustration and anger.


    The Sentienl turned its head toward him, its voice neutral. "Analysis of the phenomenon was imperative. Intervention deemed nonviable due to lack of countermeasures. "


    "Nonviable?" Batman''s tone dripped with disdain. "You''re supposed to protect this city."


    The Sentinel tilted its head slightly, as if considering his words. "Protection protocols prioritize data acquisition for anomaly resolution. Intervention without understanding could escalate the situation, resulting in more harm than good."


    Batman took a step closer, his cowl lenses glowing faintly as he scrutinized the Sentinel. "Then consider this an escalation. I need every detail you''ve gathered. Now."


    The Sentinels eyes flash before a file was sent directly to Batman''s wrist computer.


    [ Analysis completed. ]


    [ Event classified: Dimensional Breach.]


    [ Dimension Identified: Phantom Zone. ]


    Batman''s eyes narrowed. "Phantom Zone?" His voice sharp, his mind racing.


    Batman clenched his fist. The Phantom Zone¡ªa dimension used by Kryptonians to imprison their most dangerous criminals. He had only heard about it from Superman, but to see it active on Earth, targeting random civilians, was something he hadn''t anticipated.


    The Sentinels eyes remained fixed on Batman. "Anomalies indicate a weakening of the dimensional barrier. Cause unknown, could vary from natural phenomenon to unnatural intervention."This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    Batman''s mind worked furiously as he absorbed the information. With the new information added, he could see the patterns forming¡ªa slow, deliberate weakening of the dimensional barrier. Like drilling hole in wall to weaken its structure.


    The breaches weren''t random, but the energy signature was not of any known origin.


    "This isn''t just the Phantom Zone," He muttered to himself. "Someone''s tampering with it. Weakening it."


    The Sentinel added, "Projected consequence: dimensional instability. Preparing Counter measures."


    Batman''s jaw tightened. If the breaches widened further, it wouldn''t just be random civilians disappearing. It could mean an invasion, a flood of beings from the Phantom Zone spilling into Gotham¡ªand possibly beyond.


    He turned away from the Sentinel, grappling to the rooftops once more. From his elevated vantage point, he gazed out over the city. Pulling out his communicator, he activated a secure channel.


    "Alfred, prepare the Batwing. I am departing to Metropolis."


    "Right away, sir," Alfred''s calm voice replied.


    As he stood against the night sky, the weight of the city pressed heavier than ever on his shoulders. Whoever was behind this, whatever their plan, the disappearance was only the first step.


    And he would would be damned if he let them take another.


    ...


    The Batwing cut through the night sky, with silence and stealth.


    In the cockpit, Batman''s eye remained fixed on the holographic display projected from his gauntlet. The Sentinel''s data replayed endlessly, overlaying energy patterns and breach signatures. Every instinct told him time was running out. His mind raced to form a contingency plan for the upcoming danger.


    As Metropolis came into view, its crystalline skyline glittered like a beacon, Batman opened a secure channel. "Superman, I''m en route. We need to talk."


    Moments later, Superman''s voice responded, steady and confident. "I''ll meet you on the roof of the Daily Planet."


    The Batwing descended silently, its VTOL engine engaging as it hovered above the iconic floating globe atop of the Daily Planet. Batman leapt from the cockpit with practice ease, his cape billowing as he landed beside Superman.


    "Batman," Superman greeted, bit of concern visible on his face. "What''s going on?"


    "The Phantom Zone," Batman cut to the chase. "You heard of the Civilians vanishing in Gotham. The Sentinel confirmed they''ve been taken there through the breach."


    Superman''s expression darkened, his brows furrowing. He had heard of the disappearances in Gotham but had decided not to get involved since Batman was dealing with it. but he never though it would involve something from his dead planet.


    "The Phantom Zone? That shouldn''t be possible," Superman voiced, concerned. "There is only one way to access it¡ªthrough the projector."


    "That''s why I''m here," Batman said, his voice low but firm. "I need to know if you have a way to enter it. If there''s any change of rescuing them, I''m taking it."


    Superman crossed his arms, considering the implications. "The projector is in the Fortress od Solitude. It''s heavily secured. No one else should have access to it."


    "Should," Batman repeated grimly. "But someone is using it¡ªor something like it. But its the only way to rescue the citizens and investigate who is causing these breaches."


    Superman nodded, determination settling in his eyes. "Then we''ll check it out. Follow me."


    Superman took to the skies, leading the way to the arctic. Batman fired his grappled back to the Batwing and followed Superman. As they approached the Fortress of Solitude, the crystalline structure glimmered against the stark white of the icy tundra.


    It''s alien architecture loomed like a monument to a lost world.


    Superman landed first, using a massive key to open the doors to the fortress. The massive doors parted with a low him, revealing the labyrinthine interior. Batman gave the massive key an amused look but decided to not question its architecture. He followed closely, his sharp eyes scanning every detail.


    "This way," Superman said, guiding Batman through the hallways.


    They passed towering statues of Kryptonian figures holding a globe, crossing alien artifacts, and further into the fortress. Even traveling some ragged terrain. Batman understood something for the first time.


    "A man who flies doesn''t think to build the stairs," Batman commented as he used the grapple to slip down.


    "Sorry, still brand new," Superman commented as waited for Batman.


    "You should build some stairs," Batman said flatly.


    Superman then lead Batman to a less than welcomed room with items covered with cloth. At the very back stood a massive screen covered with back cloth and dust. Connected to it was a red, old modeled projector, more like a lamp. Shitty design on the Kryptonian part.


    On the broken screen, swirling shadows and faint figures could be seen¡ªthe eerie, distorted landscape of the Phantom Zone.


    "This is it," Superman said, stepping forward. "This projector can open the door to the Phantom Zone. The screen shows a life feed of its interior while also acting a door frame."


    Batman''s eyes narrowed as he approached the screen. He studied the shapes and movements within, his eyes catching something unusual. Among the swirling shadow was a distinct paw print, imprinted on the ground as though something had passed through.


    "What''s that?" Batman pointed, his voice sharp.


    Superman''s expression hardened as he leaned in to look. "I don''t know. Looks like a dogs paw print. But there.."


    Before he could investigate further, a faint noise behind them drew Batman''s attention. His instincts hones in street of Gotham screamed danger. He turned sharply, his hands already reaching for a batarang.


    A figured emerged from the shadows, wrapped in tattered bandages that trailed like smoke. Its hollow eyes glowed faintly, and it moved with puppeted steps. The mummy intruder reached it metallic hands towards the projector, murmuring in a guttural language.


    "Superman, move!" Batman shouted, leaping to the side on pure practiced reflex.


    Superman turned, but before he could react, a burst of energy erupted from the projector. The crystalline screen flared brightly, and in an instant, Superman was caught in the energy beam. His began to shimmer, his form turning transparent as he was pulled into the screen.


    "Clark!" Batman''s voice cut through the silence, but it was already late. Superman''s figure completely vanished from this side of the reality, sucked into the Phantom Zone. This why dodging is better than using your chest as a shield.


    The ghost mummy turned its glowing gaze towards Batman, a low, guttural laugh escaping its bandaged mouth. It spoke in a similar guttural language, its voice fill with pure malice.


    "You have helped us well, insect! As a reward, I shall make your death painful."[Translated]


    Without hesitation, Batman hurled a batarang, but the intruder slapped away the trinket. Taking rigged but steady steps towards him. The figure slowly walked to him, its bandage face conveying pure viciousness through its glowing eyes.


    "You made a mistake," Batman said coldly, his voice carrying through the chamber.


    The voice uttered another incomprehensible sentence, but Batman was not with time to listen to it. He reached into his yellow belt and threw first step of his plan. The black pelets at the alien mummy. The mummy reacted with lightning speed as it clawed at the pellets, causing it to explode into smokes that covered the whole room.


    "Is this suppose to hurt me?!"


    It questioned as it strode towards Batman with frightening speed. But when the smoke settled, Batman vanished from the where he stood and appeared next to the projector. And Batman pressed the detonator he held in his hand.


    The explosives beeped once under the Mummy''s leg before exploding into fiery fireworks. Throwing the mummy like a rag-doll against the crystalline wall, burning its cloths and cracking its claws.


    "Clark," Batman muttered under his breath, his jaw tightening.


    His gauntlet activated as he tired to access its controls. The scree displayed the swirling chaos of the Phantom Zone, but Superman was nowhere to be seen. His mind raced, calculating his next move. Superman was in the Phantom Zone, and there was an intruder who seem to be involved with all of it. They had knowledge of the Fortress and its technology.


    Batman strightened, he would find his answers and bring Superman back. He turned to the standing intruder, its face filled with fury and black smoke.

 124 - Retreat

    The mummy stood up,


    Its body curling forward like a beast about to pounce.


    Batman stood straight, taking a step away from the Phantom Projector. His fingers tense as his mind race to formulate a battle plant to defeat the Ghost Mummy. His hands reached to his gadgets, ready to use his arsenal to defeat the threat before him. His fin


    "No more playing, I will enjoy killing you!"[Translated]


    The mummy let out a guttural noise, speaking in a language Batman was beginning to understand. If he considered the mummy was talking through a tube with the different accent, he was speaking Kryptonese.


    "What are you?" Batman asked in Kryptonese.


    "Hohoho, an insect speaks," The mummy let out an amused chuckle. "But I shall entertain you for your efforts. I am you death."


    The mummy lunged at Batman, its claws reaching to rip his chest out. Batman ducked under the claws and threw the mummy above his shoulder. The mummy slammed on the crystal floor without weight, its impact similar to empty sack.


    Batman frowned, but he immediately threw few taser pallets onto the Mummy. The pallets lit ups with electric arcs, charge conducting through them.


    "Arrrrgh," The mummy screamed in pain as its claws dug to rips the tasers away.


    Batman used the chance to turn and completed the analysis on the projector.. The projector was connected to the Crystal Screen, but it could be dislodged. Batman felt pressed for time as he worked around to detach the Projector from its base.


    "You are dead!'' The mummy shouted as it stood up.


    Batman gaze a contemporary side glance before he pressed on the detonator. The mummy didn''t even have time to avoid as explosion rocked his body, throwing him at the crystal wall, Again. Batman knew that it would not keep the mummy.


    He thought quickly, activating his suits enhancement. One of the few things he had managed to replicate from Zion''s suit. (Through less than efficient, it would suffice) His hands moved methodically, determination overcoming his growing unease. He grabbed the projector on its weak point and ripped the Projector from its stand.


    The big bright red torch pulsed faintly in his hands, heavy but manageable. He hoisted it onto his side with a spare rope, prepared to carry it out by sheer will if necessary.


    "You cannot carry what you don''t understand, insect," The mummy hissed.


    "I don''t need to understand," Batman said coldly, his voice resolute. "I just need it to work."


    A low, chilling laugh escaped from the mummy. "Brave words for a man so fragile, so breakable," He mocked, each syllable dripped with condescension.


    Batman ignored the taunts, he had the projector, all he had to do was escape the Fortress. His breath clouded, cold seeping into his lungs. He noticed the anomaly, silently activating the suits motion assist.


    "You are alone, human. No cape, no shield, no power. Just a body of meat and bones¡ªeasy to tear apart. You are nothing but a prey!"


    The mummy lunged, its claw slashing through the air. Batman rolled under the attack, his cape billowing as he jumped back to his feet. He hurled a smoke pellets, filling he chamber with thick black vapor. Using the cover, he immediately sprinted toward the exit, the projector secure tightly to his side.


    Jumping down the un-staircased floor, he reached the crystalline hallways. The Hallways seem to stretch endlessly under the pressure. The mummy quickly found him, chasing him like a marionetted puppet.


    Batman moved swiftly, using grapples and precise leaps to outmaneuver the unnerving mummy. But it was relentless, its guttural growls and the scraps of its claws echoing behind him.


    "You cannot fight the inevitable," It shouted, closer now, its claws almost reaching. "You cannot outrun death."


    "I''ve been hunted by better monsters," Batman growled, his grip steady despite the tension coiling in his muscles. "You''re wasting your time."


    As he neared the Fortress''s door, the mummy caught up. It moved with inhuman speed, its claws raking the ground as it launched itself at him. The sound of tearing wind scream past his ears as he rolled to his feet, the projector still secure on his shoulder.


    "You talk too much," he spat, releasing a volley of smoke pellets into the phantom''s path. The chamber filled with a dense cloud, obscuring its vision.


    But the laughter returned, louder and more guttural. "You think you cheep tricks would work again?"


    The smoke parted violently as the phantom emerged, its claws piercing through with unnatural speed. Batman dodged on pure instinct, his cape torn as he narrowly avoided being impaled.


    He retaliated with a grappling hook, the line stabbed into the Mummy''s arm. With a sharp pull, he yanked the creatures off balance, ripping its bandage loose revealing nothing, but it only laugh harder.


    "Is this the best you can do, mortal?"


    Batman spun, throwing an exploding grenade, one more powerful as it erupted with blinding burst of light. The mummy screeched, recoiling momentarily.


    The exit was in sight and Batman pushed forward, even as every muscle in his body screamed with exertion as the cold bit into him. The suits enhancement putting strain on his body.


    He reached the threshold of the Fortress, the icy wind whipping at him. But before he could step outside, a metallic claw shot forward, piercing through his armor and pinning him against the crystalline wall. Batman gritted his teeth against the pain as the mummy loomed over him, its hollow eyes burning with triumph.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    "Did you think you could escape me, insect?" it sneered, yanking the projector from his side.


    Batman struggled, but the claw held firm. The mummy held the projector aloft, its bandaged face twisting into a sinister grin. It ripped its claws out of Batman, raising its hand ready to strike him dead.


    But it halted, its head tilting as if it heard something.


    The phantom stepped back, holding the projector aloft like a trophy. "This belongs to the us, not to a pathetic human who clings to shadows."


    "No," Batman growled, forcing himself to his feet despite the searing pain in his side.


    And with that, the mummy vanished into snowstorm that was raging outside the Fortress, leaving Batman injured and alone in the frozen wasteland. The Fortress''s silent halls echoed with his heavy breaths as he slumped against the wall, blood seeping from his wound.


    Despite the pain, Batman''s mind raced. The projector was gone, Superman was trapped, and now the Phantom Zone''s horrors had a foothold in the world.


    Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.


    He activated his comm, his voice a low growl. "Alfred¡­ we have a problem."


    "Master Wayne," Alfred''s calm, concerned tone came through the earpiece. "I take it your visit to the Fortress did not got as planned."


    "No," Batman replied tersely, forcing himself to stand up. "Superman''s trapped, the projector is in hostile hands, and we have no idea what we are dealing with."


    Icy wind bit into Batman''s exposed face as he stumbled out of the Fortress, clutching his wounds. Blood seeped through the reinforced fabric, staining the pure white snow beneath him. He grit his teeth forcing himself to keep moving, even as the cold infiltrated his lungs and chilled his body. Even through the sharp pain. But it won''t stop him. Pain was a constant companion, and there was no room for weakness now.


    Batman reached the Batwing, parked on a desolate plateau a short distance away from the Fortress. He pressed a button on his gauntlet, and the cockpit hissed open. Dragging himself into the seat, he activated the autopilot and began running diagnostics on his injury.


    Alfred''s voice returned, filled with measured urgency. "Do you require immediate medical assistance, sir?"


    "I''ll manage," Batman said, running a hand over the wound. The bleeding has slowed, but the pain was sharp on the freezing wound. "Prep the Batcave for analysis. I''ll need the computer running simulations by the time I get there. We need to find the next breach and be prepared for any more surprises."


    "As you wish, Master Wayne. But might I suggest prioritizing your injuries before diving head first into yet another mystery? Even the world''s greatest detective can''t solve mystery while bleeding to death." Alfred replied, his tone firm and concerned.


    Batman didn''t answer, leaning back in his seat as the Batwing roared to life, lifting off into the frigid night. His mind was already racing ahead, dissecting every detail of the encounter.


    The mummy''s taunts, its brutality, its unnatural weight and force. It all pointed to an unusual phenomenon. The mummy was like a phantom wrapped in material bandages, giving it form.


    The Phantom Zone.


    A prison for Krypton''s worst, a place designed to hold the un-containable. And now, something had breached its boundaries, targeting Earth and its protectorate cities.


    The Phantom Zone. Kryptonian technology. The mummy.


    It wasn''t random. This was calculated.


    But by whom? And for what purpose?


    "Alfred," Batman finally spoke, his voice low. "We''re missing something. The Zone doesn''t just open itself. Someone or something weakened the boundaries. I need to know how."


    "Of course, sir," Alfred replied. "But might I suggest involving the League? This seems rather... large, even for you."


    Batman''s lips pressed into a thin line. The League would eventually be necessary, but he needed more information before rallying the others. Superman was the key to understanding this, and he wasn''t about to leave him behind.


    The Batwing''s proximity sensors blared suddenly, jolting Batman from his thoughts. He glanced at the readouts¡ªsomething was approaching, fast.


    A blurs of silver shot past the cockpit, doubling back with impossible agility. Batman recognized it immediately: a drone, sleek and deadly. It came from the Direction of the Fortress.


    "Of course," Batman muttered, angling the Batwing into evasive maneuvers as two more drones joined the pursuit.


    The drones fired bolts of energy that seared past the Batwing, narrowly missing its wings. Batman''s hands flew over the controls, deploying countermeasures that exploded in a cloud of smoke and chaff.


    But the drones were relentless, weaving through the defenses with ease.


    "Alfred, I''ve got company," Batman said tersely.


    "I can see that, sir."


    The Batwing dove sharply, skimming the icy terrain below. Batman activated its rear turrets, unleashing a barrage of missiles at the pursuing drones. One exploded in a fiery burst, but the others adapted, their movements becoming more erratic and unpredictable.


    The drones closed in, their energy blasts hammering against the Batwing''s shell, chipping it away. Waring lights flared across the console, the damage reports piling up.


    Batman gritted his teeth. He couldn''t afford to lose the Batwing¡ªnot here, not now. With a flick of a switch, he activated the EMP burst, a last-resort measure.


    The cockpit filled with a brief pulse of blue light as the EMP wave radiated outward. The drones faltered, their systems momentarily disrupted. Batman seized the opportunity, banking hard and sending the Batwing into a steep ascent.


    As the drones recovered, one managed to fire a parting shot that clipped the Batwing''s tail. The impact sent the craft spinning, alarms blaring.


    "Alfred, I am using the emergency protocols," Batman said, wrestling with the controls.


    "Shall I prepare some Lemon?"


    Batman reached for the emergency box secured under his seat, He nearly ripped the lip open as his hands reached for the silver Batarang. Zion''s suit, shrunken and disabled. The moment he touched, it melted into his suit, covering him in an instant.


    ["Welcome back, Batman."]


    "Contingency, Teleport to batcave."


    The suit obeyed as Batman;s figure glitched out of existence, just in time for him to avoid the barrage of energy blast and a fiery explosion. He appeared at the Batcave with the spatial glitch, remaining momentum throwing across the ground.


    Alfred approached him with quick steps his hands carrying sliced lemons, his expression equal parts disapproval and concern.


    "Sir, You look like you''ve gone several rounds backbreaking rounds with a Bane. I suggest you take a short rest and recover your health."


    Batman''s cowl retreated, his face grim and lined with exhaustion. "I''ll rest when we''ve got answers, Alfred." He answered as he stood back on his feet.


    "And when will that be, I wonder?" Alfred muttered under his breath.


    Batman check his wound to find them sealed by the Nano Suit, possibly healed to as he felt no pain nor numbness. He approached the central console, pulling up his cowls record. The last moments before the phantom''s attack played out on the screen. He froze the footage at the moment Superman vanished into the Phantom Zone.


    "There''s something we''re missing," he said aloud, his fingers flying over the keyboard. "Something it doesn''t want us to see."


    As he zoomed in on the projector''s interface, Alfred stepped closer. "And how do you propose to face an enemy that you got no idea about, sir?"


    Batman didn''t answer immediately. His eyes were locked on the screen, where a faint distortion in the image caught his attention. He enhanced it, revealing a faint but unmistakable paw print etched into the crystalline surface.


    "Superman mentioned this in passing," Batman murmured, his brow furrowing. "A trace of something... alive in the Zone."


    "Alive?" Alfred echoed, his voice tinged with unease. "Do you mean to say there''s more than just the occasionally imprisoned crime lords lurking in that dreadful place?"


    Batman''s jaw tightened. "The Zone is a prison, but superman''s father didn''t fully understand it. If something''s been living there long enough to leave traces, it''s not just surviving¡ªit''s adapting."


    "And you intend to step into this ''world'' to find your answers?" Alfred asked, his tone sharp with disapproval.


    Batman''s silence was answer enough.


    "Very well," Alfred said, his voice softening. "But do remember, sir, even the greatest detective is still human. Do try not to forget that while you''re playing savior to the world."


    Batman turned back to the console, his resolve unshaken. The Phantom Zone had stolen lives, threatened his world, and now held Superman captive.


    If no one else could stop it, then he would.