"One Universe" RPG thread.

[Sparta*]

Lex Luthor smiled in response to Reed Richards' tirade, but his eyes narrowed slightly.

"Fortunately for us, there are no such people in attendance here tonight," he answered casually, "And as for your new age, I'm an optimist, Reed. I believe that the future will see the human race reach new heights, as we strive to continue our upward climb, to touch the stars. I do not want a new age where we hand over all our power and ambitions to...outsiders, a tainted few with unnatural gifts, unfair advantages over the average human being."

<Mister Fantastic>

"These 'tainted' people as you put it, myself included, are trying to help humanity reach that star you are speaking of Mr. Luthor. Sure there are some who will use their powers to benefit themselves, but that is no different from the non 'tainted' people...everyone, superhuman or not, is taunted by greed and injustice...most people don't let it overtake them, but there are some that do. Those are the people that you should be worried about Mr. Luthor...people like the ones behind the robot attack outside my home in New York this morning. The person behind that attack obviously has amazing resources, and an equally powerful motive to match it" Reed paused for a brief moment, and stared at Lex before continuing

"If it wasn't for Superman, Spider-man, and my team, who knows how many people would have been slaughtered by that monstrosity. What i'm saying is...human nature dictates that people are slaves to their own ambitions...whether it be ambitions to further themselves, or to help others...but as long as their are more people wanting to help others, then the heroes will always prevail" Reed said

 

[Keyser Soze]

<Tony Stark>

"He makes you weak if you let him, not if you accept your limitations Lex. Some men are born superior to others in certain ways. Superman is anything but a God. Trust me, I know that much. If we accept our roles in life, if we know our own capabilities, then there is nothing you can't achieve. Look at Queen for Gods sake. He survived on a island. Him. A millionaire play boy! We are what we choose to be. If you choose to be threatened by a man trying to help us, then I guess you've got every right to be scared. Because you're chosing a conflict that doesn't exist."

"Yet, Tony," said Luthor, forcing a smile, "A conflict that doesn't exist...yet."

Dinah tilted her head thoughtfully.

"Perhaps. However it seems that the JSA stayed pretty on course. But times have changed this Superman seems to be something unearthly.
The ones I find most interesting are the ones who don't seem to have any power or powers, such as this Green Archer seen around Star City.
The potential of unpowered people seeing him as an example seems dangerous. Who knows how many people could get harmed by fancying themselves as superheros because they can hit a bullseye with a rubber band."
Dinah said diplomatically trying to lighten the mood.
She looked again at Luthor. He was an attracive man in his own light, still he seemed heated about this and it wouldn't do to turn a social gathering into a debate room.

"I suppose their own inner community would be enough of a deterent for taking over the world. Perhaps a different radical opinion would be to arm everyone and allow them to be the deterent for a situation such as that."

Lex Luthor was very impressed with this young woman. She was certainly a cut above the bimbos Stark usually had hanging on his arm.

"You make an excellent point, Miss Lance," Luthor replied, "The heroes that I find very intriguing are those with no powers. Now that is true bravery, gentlemen. True heroism. It is men and women like that, people just like you and me who try to help the world, that we should all respect and admire."

Luthor smiled to himself. Best to plant this little seed in everyone's minds now. It would help in the development of what he was planning...

 

[Keyser Soze]

"Oh, you misunderstood me, Tony," Luthor explained, "I wasn't referring to Reed and Sue. They were heroes long before that...tragic addicent. Each of them is one of us. I was talking about...Superman."

Luthor had almost spat out the word. He realised he was taking this too far. He needed to draw back a little.

<Mister Fantastic>

"These 'tainted' people as you put it, myself included, are trying to help humanity reach that star you are speaking of Mr. Luthor. Sure there are some who will use their powers to benefit themselves, but that is no different from the non 'tainted' people...everyone, superhuman or not, is taunted by greed and injustice...most people don't let it overtake them, but there are some that do. Those are the people that you should be worried about Mr. Luthor...people like the ones behind the robot attack outside my home in New York this morning. The person behind that attack obviously has amazing resources, and an equally powerful motive to match it" Reed paused for a brief moment, and stared at Lex before continuing

"If it wasn't for Superman, Spider-man, and my team, who knows how many people would have been slaughtered by that monstrosity. What i'm saying is...human nature dictates that people are slaves to their own ambitions...whether it be ambitions to further themselves, or to help others...but as long as their are more people wanting to help others, then the heroes will always prevail" Reed said

"Well, I hope you're right, Reed," Luthor said, "For all our sakes."

 

[Sentry2005]

<Matt Murdock>

Idiots.

Luthor is playing them. Goading them. Trying to put seed of doubt in their minds.

Stark is overly protective of the... what did Bruce call them... Meta-Humans.

It's like he knows something. Like he knows we'll need them soon.

Miss Lance seems an intelligent woman. While Luthor plays Stark and the others, she plays him right back.

Richards is smart, but not that smart.

Stark would be if he wasn't so damn obsessed with being the knight in shining armour, argueing when he doesn't need to.

Queen. Well Mr. Queen wants everyone to have a good time.

Bruce doesn't want to be a party to the debate, but Stark is trying to drag him in.

Idiots.

The world needs heroes.

True heroes. People without gifts. Luthor is an idiot.

The world needs decent human beings, powers or not.

Not that he'd know a decent human being. No self comparison.

Suddenly. I can hear a heartbeat.

A desperate man.

His heart is beating well beyond normal.

He's drawing closer.

Seeking something here.

I can also hear... something not right.

A heart beating at way below the norm.

A rate that no human should be able to acheive. Not even somone trained like me or Bruce.

This party is going to get interesting...

 

[twylight]

Dinah let out and unaudible sigh.
This party was the worst she&#8217;d ever been at. She gazed longingly at the unused dance area.

&#8220;Virgin Martini?&#8221;
The waiter brought her her drink and handed it to her,

&#8220;Yes, thank you.&#8221; She murmered as she watched and listened to the men fight like roosters.

"You make an excellent point, Miss Lance," Luthor replied, "The heroes that I find very intriguing are those with no powers. Now that is true bravery, gentlemen. True heroism. It is men and women like that, people just like you and me who try to help the world, that we should all respect and admire."

Dinah looked up, smiled and nodded at Luthor&#8217;s comment.

&#8220;I shall take that as a compliment.&#8221; She glanced around the room agains, noticing a large shy man with glasses in the corner.
She raised her eyebrow.

&#8220;Now gentlemen, I&#8217;m afraid it&#8217;s time for me to depart from your company. The only way to liven up this party is to make it lively. Perhaps I can find someone interested in taking my dance shoes for a spin.&#8221;

She smiled at Sue Storm.

&#8220;Don&#8217;t let him forget to take you dancing.&#8221; She said aside to her as she moved away, again surveying the empty dance floor.

 

[Keyser Soze]

Winking knowingly at Tony Stark, Lex Luthor stepped away from the group and approached Dinah.

"It takes two to tango, Miss Lance," Luthor said, "Why don't I join you? I'm a bit out of practise, but I still have a few moves up my sleeve."

 

[MaskedManJRK]

"Bruce! Come join the party old man!"

Oh, Christ. And here I was hoping I could sneak past them. No matter.

I walk over to them, silently listening to their conversation about the super-heroes. I lay silent, hoping that I could sneak by. Then, an opportunity comes up by the brunette. Dinah, I believe.

&#8220;Now gentlemen, I&#8217;m afraid it&#8217;s time for me to depart from your company. The only way to liven up this party is to make it lively. Perhaps I can find someone interested in taking my dance shoes for a spin.&#8221;

I could have swore I heard a choir singing "Joy to the World."

"I'll take you up on that offer, Miss Lance."

 

[twylight]

Winking knowingly at Tony Stark, Lex Luthor stepped away from the group and approached Dinah.

"It takes two to tango, Miss Lance," Luthor said, "Why don't I join you? I'm a bit out of practise, but I still have a few moves up my sleeve."

Dinah smiled and gave a curtsy, handing her drink to Tony.

"It's virgin honey." she commented as she caught him eyeing it.

Dinah held out her arms and allowed Luthor to take them.

"It's nice to see at least someone was raised correctly."

 

[Sentry2005]

<Tony Stark>

"No fighting over my fiance you two!"

I lean towards Reed, and lose the smile.

"Reed, I need to talk to you about something serious."

 

[Keyser Soze]

Dinah smiled and gave a curtsy, handing her drink to Tony.

"It's virgin honey." she commented as she caught him eyeing it.

She held her arms out and allowed Luthor to take them.

"It's nice to see at least someone was raised correctly."

Luthor tensed slightly at the mention of his upbringing. Been a long time since he'd thought about his parents. That was one thing he wasn't going to dwell on. He brushed the thought away and began to dance with Dinah.

Mercifully, it was a slow number playing. If Luthor had to break out some faster, flashier moves before he could get warmed up, he may end up looking like some drunk uncle at a wedding. Luthor glanced up at Bruce Wayne, awkwardly standing just a little away from them. He suppressed a chuckle. Need to be faster off the mark next time, Brucie boy. He brought Dinah in a little closer as they slowly circled the dance floor.

"So tell me, Miss Lance," Luthor said, "How long have you known Tony Stark?"

 

[Sparta*]

"Oh, you misunderstood me, Tony," Luthor explained, "I wasn't referring to Reed and Sue. They were heroes long before that...tragic addicent. Each of them is one of us. I was talking about...Superman."

Luthor had almost spat out the word. He realised he was taking this too far. He needed to draw back a little.



"Well, I hope you're right, Reed," Luthor said, "For all our sakes."

<Mister Fantastic>

"You seem to be extremly interested in Superman Mr. Luthor...and I am curious as to why. He has done nothing to hurt others, actually, he has done nothing but help others in every way he can...how can someone dislike someone that noble and honest? Is it because his power is threatening to you? or.....desirable?" Reed said suspiciously

"None the less, Miss Lance is right, the dance floor isn't being used nearly enough as it should be, and my darling Sue deserves to be entertained...I bid you gentlemen adieu for now" Reed said as he was about to leave with Sue. Before he could move far, Tony told him he needed to talk

Edit - Sorry, can we just say this happened before everyone disbersed? If not, i'll edit

 

[Sparta*]

<Tony Stark>

"No fighting over my fiance you two!"

I lean towards Reed, and lose the smile.

"Reed, I need to talk to you about something serious."

<Mister Fantastic>

"I'm terribly sorry Sue, can that dance wait for a minute?" Reed said

"always business before pleasure with you Reed...i'll just take a seat at our table" Sue replied with a sigh. She loved Reed enough to understand the things he had to do for the greater good...but that doesn't mean she had to like it.

Reed hated doing that to Sue...she was a beautiful intelligent woman that deserved every ounce of his attention, but by Tony's tone, Reed knew this was of the utmost importance.

"I'm so sorry darling...it'll just take a moment" Reed said as he walked towards a hall with Tony

"What is it Tony?" Reed said "What is the matter?"

 

[Sentry2005]

<Mister Fantastic>

"I'm terribly sorry Sue, can that dance wait for a minute?" Reed said

"always business before pleasure with you Reed...i'll just take a seat at our table" Sue replied with a sigh. She loved Reed enough to understand the things he had to do for the greater good...but that doesn't mean she had to like it.

Reed hated doing that to Sue...she was a beautiful intelligent woman that deserved every ounce of his attention, but by Tony's tone, Reed knew this was of the utmost importance.

"I'm so sorry darling...it'll just take a moment" Reed said as he walked towards a hall with Tony

"What is it Tony?" Reed said "What is the matter?"

<Tony Stark>

I take a deep breath.

"Reed, I recently recovered an alien object. It was a computer. Now you have to trust me when I tell you this. You have to let me finnish,"

I wait. Reed nods.

"I have, for the past three years, been building a suit of Armour. State of the art. I was going to unveil it tonight. The truth of the matter is, i've interfaced the alien computer with my armour. Notice my extra body mass? It's the chest plate. Reed, when I interfaced the two techs... it showed me something. Something horrible. Somethings coming for Earth."

I grab a glass of wine.

"The armour... it's bonded to my flesh. I can't remove it. That's why i'm drinking so heavily, but i'm not that drunk. The suit is starving my body of moisture. I have to keep drinking to keep myself standing."

I put a hand on Reed's shoulder.

"I'm telling you this because I trust you. I've known you for years. And, while I hate to agree with Luthor, I don't know if we can trust all these new 'Super' humans."

I look around the room.

"I need your help Reed. Yours above all else."

 

[twylight]

Luthor tensed slightly at the mention of his upbringing. Been a long time since he'd thought about his parents. That was one thing he wasn't going to dwell on. He brushed the thought away and began to dance with Dinah.

Mercifully, it was a slow number playing. If Luthor had to break out some faster, flashier moves before he could get warmed up, he may end up looking like some drunk uncle at a wedding. Luthor glanced up at Bruce Wayne, awkwardly standing just a little away from them. He suppressed a chuckle. Need to be faster off the mark next time, Brucie boy. He brought Dinah in a little closer as they slowly circled the dance floor.

"So tell me, Miss Lance," Luthor said, "How long have you known Tony Stark?"

&#8220;About a year, suprisingly. He decided that tonight would be a good night for my &#8216;coming out.&#8217;
Mr. Luthor, You are quite a dancer.&#8221; She commented as he lead her around the floor.

&#8221;How long have you known him Mr. Luthor?&#8221;

She noted the dark haired Mr. Wayne from the corner of her eye and she felt Luthor hold her closer as they gracefully circled the floor.
She sensed too many rivalries in this group. Things were simpler when she was younger. Still she&#8217;d made her choice and it was Tony, if she must endure being a trophy dance for one man.

 

[Keyser Soze]

&#8220;About a year, suprisingly. He decided that tonight would be a good night for my &#8216;coming out.&#8217;
Mr. Luthor, You are quite a dancer.&#8221; She commented as he lead her around the floor.

&#8221;How long have you known him Mr. Luthor?&#8221;

She noted the dark haired Mr. Wayne from the corner of her eye and she felt Luthor hold her closer as they gracefully circled the floor.
She sensed too many rivalries in this group. Things were simpler when she was younger. Still she&#8217;d made her choice and it was Tony, if she must endure being a trophy dance for one man.

"Oh, I've known Tony for many years now," replied Luthor, "Well, 'know' is a relative term. Sometimes I feel that, in our society, you never truly know anyone. And that's why reputation is so important."

Luthor could have gone on to make a little dig at Tony Stark's recent reputation. But he chose to bite his tongue. He spotted Stark talking to Reed Richards, a lok of grave concern on his weary face.

"Though I must say, Tony is behaving rather strangely tonight," he continued, "Stranger than usual, I mean. Is there anything going on I should know about?"

 

[twylight]

"Oh, I've known Tony for many years now," replied Luthor, "Well, 'know' is a relative term. Sometimes I feel that, in our society, you never truly know anyone. And that's why reputation is so important."

Luthor could have gone on to make a little dig at Tony Stark's recent reputation. But he chose to bite his tongue. He spotted Stark talking to Reed Richards, a lok of grave concern on his weary face.

"Though I must say, Tony is behaving rather strangely tonight," he continued, "Stranger than usual, I mean. Is there anything going on I should know about?"

Dinah let out a laugh at his comment. She felt the exact same way.

She let a worried look cross her face for a second, herself having noticed his odd behavior. One of which was him having her come seperate from him.

"Mr. Luthor, I doubt there is anything you should know about. However there is plenty I should." She stopped realizing her tone.
She smiled.
"I'm sorry. I'm as at a loss as you as to his behavior. He did request I come seperate from him tonight, which seemed odd to me." She smiled.

 

[Sparta*]

<Mister Fantastic>

"I believe you Tony" Reed replied sternly "We have been through a lot, and despite your superfluous exterior, you have proven yourself to be a trustworthy and loyal friend over the years" Reed said.

"Do not unveil the armour tonight...or at all until we can run some tests and figure out the origin of this alien technology...we don't want to cause panic and hysteria, that would only worsen the situation" Reed said, staying calm even though inside he was feeling dread...he knew there were higher powers in the universe...he never believed so before, being a man of science he only accepted what was proven fact, but since the cosmic storm in the shuttle he began to believe...there was no way that was an accident...

"If your body's moisture is being absorbed I suggest you drink some of this" Reed said stretching his arm down the hall and grabbing a bottle of water from a nearby table "As opposed to this" He said, grabbing the bottle of wine from Tony's hand

"Didn't all those years at college teach you anything? Alcohol dries your body out even more...if you want to replenish you fluids, stick to the water tonight...regardless of how unfestive it is...your health comes first" Reed said as his doctor side began to emerge

"You have to stop by the Baxter Building as soon as possible so I can get some samples and run tests on the armor and the alien technology. If we can track down where the alien technology is from, more light would be shed on our next course of action. For now though, I recommend you carry on with the party, and act normal...which might be hard with the water in your hand, but you'll have to make due...we can't let others sense that something is wrong" Reed said

 

[Sentry2005]

<Mister Fantastic>

"I believe you Tony" Reed replied sternly "We have been through a lot, and despite your superfluous exterior, you have proven yourself to be a trustworthy and loyal friend over the years" Reed said.

"Do not unveil the armour tonight...or at all until we can run some tests and figure out the origin of this alien technology...we don't want to cause panic and hysteria, that would only worsen the situation" Reed said, staying calm even though inside he was feeling dread...he knew there were higher powers in the universe...he never believed so before, being a man of science he only accepted what was proven fact, but since the cosmic storm in the shuttle he began to believe...there was no way that was an accident...

"If your body's moisture is being absorbed I suggest you drink some of this" Reed said stretching his arm down the hall and grabbing a bottle of water from a nearby table "As opposed to this" He said, grabbing the bottle of wine from Tony's hand

"Didn't all those years at college teach you anything? Alcohol dries your body out even more...if you want to replenish you fluids, stick to the water tonight...regardless of how unfestive it is...your health comes first" Reed said as his doctor side began to emerge

"You have to stop by the Baxter Building as soon as possible so I can get some samples and run tests on the armor and the alien technology. If we can track down where the alien technology is from, more light would be shed on our next course of action. For now though, I recommend you carry on with the party, and act normal...which might be hard with the water in your hand, but you'll have to make due...we can't let others sense that something is wrong" Reed said

<Tony Stark>

"Dammit Reed," I grab a hold of him.

People look over.

"I'm sorry Reed... But the world is at stake. The whole world. And at the moment, it's on my head. Me. I need someone to share the load. I've been going through the motions since it hit me. The download. I won't unveil the armour tonight, I won't drink booze, but we need to sort something out. Something to make a stand."

The party has carried on, despite my breif trip to insanity ville.

"The same words keep repeating in my mind... the Dark Seed. I don't know what it means, but what if this 'Superman' is that Dark Seed... what if its any number of the heroes that have appeared in the last few days?"

 

[Batman]

<Clark Kent>

Two Hours Late.

TWO HOURS LATE.

That's all I've heard for half of the flight to Star City.And,naturally,It's from the lips of Lois Lane.Oddly,half of the reason we're late is because,instead of changing on the plane,she had to make sure her hair and makeup looked absolutely perfect.

And why the effort,anyway?She despises half of the men in attendance.I've heard critiques about every one of them...

Bruce Wayne...A quote,unquote 'spoiled brat' who's only living by the reputation set by his father,who was one of the only decent human beings to ever live in the city of Gotham.

Tony Stark...A notoriously large consumer of alcohol,womaniser,and all around sleaze who,according to her,only gets women by laying down a wad of fifties.

Oliver Queen.Well,she didn't know much about him,but mentioned that he needed a haircuit and shave.

And of course...I don't need to say anything about Lex Luthor.Despite what Lois thinks about him,I have my own opinion about the man.If he was,like I suspect,behind the attack in New York this morning,He needs to be locked up.But,of course,he hides behind the morals this country was founded on.And,despite me being of alien origin,I have to abide by them.

Maybe it's for the better,considering I don't want to make a scene tonight.Infact,if all goes according to plan,I won't even need to reveal the costume underneath my tuxedo.

I look over at my watch.Two hours...and five minutes late.Perry would have our heads if he knew about this.At least we've got the report on the attack,if we turn up with nothing on this.

I've been waiting for fifteen minutes on Lois to change in the bathroom of the airport.I should be angry.Instead,the moment she comes out,I'm...speechless.

She's...stunning.Moreso than I've ever seen with her.She may be the most beautiful woman I've ever layed eyes on.

...It's almost too bad she's got one of the most annoying personalities of any human I've met.

"Wow...Lois,You look-"

"Yes,I know,I look horrible.Now come on...We've got to get a cab.We're already three hours late..."

I follow her,as she makes her way towards the front doors,while getting her notes ready.

"First of all,it's two hours late.Not three.And second..."

She looks at me.

"You look nice,actually."

She raises an eyebrow.

"...nice?"

She shakes her head,and walks out the door.

...Well...at least I tried.

- - - - -

We arrive infront of Queen's mansion,after dropping our things off at the hotel.

Now we're three hours late.

I step out of the car,taking a look at the rather...large,mansion.Infact,I don't think I've ever been this close to one.

"...Nice place."

"There are better.Trust me."

I give Lois a look as she keeps checking her notes.I believe this makes the fifth time she's checked them since we left the hotel.

We get halfway up to the door,when,she grabs my arm.At first,I would think it was an act of tradition.Then...I notice the squeezing.She looks up at me.

"Now look,Smallville...No matter what anyone says or asks,we're simply here on buisness.You're my buisness partner,nothing else.Not my date.Got it?Not.My.Date."

I nod,before she yanks me forward.Somehow,I don't think it'll be that hard to remember...

As we approach the door,it opens.Behind it stands an elderly man,in a tuxedo and white gloves.Queen's butler,no doubt.

"Do you have your invitiations?"

"Oh,sure.They're right..."

Lois checks her purse.

"...here?"

She expresses a look of worry,as she keeps checking her purse.I reach into my pocket,take both of our invitiations out,and hand them to the butler.Lois looks up at me.

"Very good,then.I shall notify Master Queen that you have arrived."

As we walk in,Lois looks up at me,with somewhat of a smirk.

"And here I was beginning to think you were useless..."

I raise an eyebrow,as we enter what looks like the ballroom.Hundreds of people are here.Hundreds of rich people.If I weren't just starting out at The Planet,I'd probably be able to fit in.

...Now that I think about it...Fitting in has never exactly been one of my stronger traits.

 

[LibrarianThorne]

He couldn't stop thinking about her. Dinah Lance, the future Mrs. Tony Stark. She was amazing. Charming, beautiful, intelligent, nothing like the aloof and austere Diana Prince. Not as statuesque or prizeworthy as Ms. Prince, but there was something else in her. Something more, and something far more alluring than the mystique that surrounded Diana Prince.

The group had dispursed, gone their separate ways leaving Queen to his thoughts. What troubled him most was that Luthor had a point. If people expected their superheroes to save them, what would happen? He was no God, not like Superman. A bullet would kill him just as dead as anyone else, green spandex or no. Would people wait for their problems to be solved by a man from the sky? Or a bat from the shadows? Or an arrow in the night?

He was far more troubled than he would admit to. He kept up the happy appearance, swapping nothings with big shots from across the country, when he spied Lois Lane enter. She looked stunning, though of course she wouldn't think so. Lane was one of the best reporters in the world, but far too uptight for Ollie's tastes. She was with a man who looked about as uninteresting as anyone Ollie had ever seen. Having nothing particularly better to do, he strode to Lois, drink in hand.

"Lois, Lois, Lois, just what has ol' Perry got you dragging around now?"

 

[Batman]

He couldn't stop thinking about her. Dinah Lance, the future Mrs. Tony Stark. She was amazing. Charming, beautiful, intelligent, nothing like the aloof and austere Diana Prince. Not as statuesque or prizeworthy as Ms. Prince, but there was something else in her. Something more, and something far more alluring than the mystique that surrounded Diana Prince.

The group had dispursed, gone their separate ways leaving Queen to his thoughts. What troubled him most was that Luthor had a point. If people expected their superheroes to save them, what would happen? He was no God, not like Superman. A bullet would kill him just as dead as anyone else, green spandex or no. Would people wait for their problems to be solved by a man from the sky? Or a bat from the shadows? Or an arrow in the night?

He was far more troubled than he would admit to. He kept up the happy appearance, swapping nothings with big shots from across the country, when he spied Lois Lane enter. She looked stunning, though of course she wouldn't think so. Lane was one of the best reporters in the world, but far too uptight for Ollie's tastes. She was with a man who looked about as uninteresting as anyone Ollie had ever seen. Having nothing particularly better to do, he strode to Lois, drink in hand.

"Lois, Lois, Lois, just what has ol' Perry got you dragging around now?"

Lois and I both simultaneously look over,to spot Oliver Queen himself,walking towards us.

I'm surprised,actually.This is his party...You'd think he'd have something better to do than greet us.Of course,I may be underestimating Lois' status as a celebrity,here...

Lois folds her arms,with a smirk.

"This?Oh,nothing...Just a farmboy from Kansas who wants to get into journalism.We call him Clark."

...

Well,glad to know my self-esteem can always get a boost around her.

I extend my hand.

"Clark Kent."

I don't believe I spoke loud enough.Infact,Queen's not even paying attention to me.He seems more interested in Lois.Which is good,I guess...considering that's what I wanted my disquise to do:Take attention off of myself.

"It's been some time,Ollie."

She looks at his hand,which holds a drink.

"...Glad to know you haven't changed."

...Does Lois WANT to get us kicked out of here?

Wait a minute...Do these two actually know eachother?

"I'm only kidding,of course.I'm reserving that comment for Stark,over there."

...It seems Lois is smarter than I thought.Of course,she could've just said that because Queen's the host.

I look around the room,after hearing Stark's name.

"So,Ollie...How has the boring life of being rich and famous been treating you,all of these years?"

I notice Bruce Wayne.

...I thought He'd be taller,in person.

A little ways away from him,I can see Tony Stark.Oddly,the man is...bigger,than I imagined.It's as if the he's a professional bodybuilder...only even more muscular,it seems.Odd.Very odd...

Not far from Stark,I can see Reed Richards.He could,quite possibly,be the only person I have something in common with in this room.Unless you count being a journalist,like Lois.

But Richards has powers.He's different from everyone else...Just like me.Infact,I've noticed some people looking over in his direction,almost the same way people have looked at me as Superman.

I notice Sue Storm,aswell.That makes two people.

Wait...What if I'm wrong?

I mean...any other superpowered people I've heard of either wear masks,or have the power to change their form.What if...some of these people are the other costumed heroes?

No...I'm jumping to conclusions,now.Over half of these people are constantly busy,which wouldn't give them time to be costumed heroes.And the other half are too selfish to actually take on the life of defending innocent people.

Speaking of defending innocent people...

I notice a blind man here,aswell.I...know who he is,but I don't quite know the name.He's an attourney.A famous one,at that.But,what is his name?Mur...something.Mur...der?Mur...dark?Mur...dock!Murdock.Matthew Murdock,the blind attourney from Hell's Kitchen of New York.Of course...

Well...at least I know one thing.Murdock surely can't be one of those costumed heroes...

 

[LibrarianThorne]

Lois and I both simultaneously look over,to spot Oliver Queen himself,walking towards us.

I'm surprised,actually.This is his party...You'd think he'd have something better to do than greet us.Of course,I may be underestimating Lois' status as a celebrity,here...

Lois folds her arms,with a smirk.

"This?Oh,nothing...Just a farmboy from Kansas who wants to get into journalism.We call him Clark."

...

Well,glad to know my self-esteem can always get a boost around her.

I extend my hand.

"Clark Kent."

I don't believe I spoke loud enough.Infact,Queen's not even paying attention to me.He seems more interested in Lois.Which is good,I guess...considering that's what I wanted my disquise to do:Take attention off of myself.

"It's been some time,Ollie."

She looks at his hand,which holds a drink.

"...Glad to know you haven't changed."

...Does Lois WANT to get us kicked out of here?

Wait a minute...Do these two actually know eachother?

"I'm only kidding,of course.I'm reserving that comment for Stark,over there."

...It seems Lois is smarter than I thought.Of course,she could've just said that because Queen's the host.

I look around the room,after hearing Stark's name.

"So,Ollie...How has the boring life of being rich and famous been treating you,all of these years?"

I notice Bruce Wayne.

...I thought He'd be taller,in person.

A little ways away from him,I can see Tony Stark.Oddly,the man is...bigger,than I imagined.It's as if the he's a professional bodybuilder...only even more muscular,it seems.Odd.Very odd...

Not far from Stark,I can see Reed Richards.He could,quite possibly,be the only person I have something in common with in this room.Unless you count being a journalist,like Lois.

But Richards has powers.He's different from everyone else...Just like me.Infact,I've noticed some people looking over in his direction,almost the same way people have looked at me as Superman.

I notice Sue Storm,aswell.That makes two people.

Wait...What if I'm wrong?

I mean...any other superpowered people I've heard of either wear masks,or have the power to change their form.What if...some of these people are the other costumed heroes?

No...I'm jumping to conclusions,now.Over half of these people are constantly busy,which wouldn't give them time to be costumed heroes.And the other half are too selfish to actually take on the life of defending innocent people.

Speaking of defending innocent people...

I notice a blind man here,aswell.I...know who he is,but I don't quite know the name.He's an attourney.A famous one,at that.But,what is his name?Mur...something.Mur...der?Mur...dark?Mur...dock!Murdock.Matthew Murdock,the blind attourney from Hell's Kitchen of New York.Of course...

Well...at least I know one thing.Murdock surely can't be one of those costumed heroes...

"Oh, Lois, the usual. Wine, women, dancing, thrilling plane crashes onto deserted islands. Speaking of, how'd you like the exclusive? I considered giving it to Wolf Blitzer, but not only are you a much better reporter, you're much better looking. So what do you say?"

 

[Sparta*]

<Tony Stark>

"Dammit Reed," I grab a hold of him.

People look over.

"I'm sorry Reed... But the world is at stake. The whole world. And at the moment, it's on my head. Me. I need someone to share the load. I've been going through the motions since it hit me. The download. I won't unveil the armour tonight, I won't drink booze, but we need to sort something out. Something to make a stand."

The party has carried on, despite my breif trip to insanity ville.

"The same words keep repeating in my mind... the Dark Seed. I don't know what it means, but what if this 'Superman' is that Dark Seed... what if its any number of the heroes that have appeared in the last few days?"

<Mister Fantastic>

"Get a grip of yourself Tony, and stop making a scene" Reed said.

"Losing your cool isn't going to help this situation, and it's only going to draw more attention to us...which is exactly the opposite of what we want right now. What you told me has the potential to be a serious problem, and we can't let others know about it...it would only lead to hysteria, and knowing the people in attendance at this party, someone would try to find a way to use the situation to further their own personal goals" Reed said.

"I don't think Superman can be this 'Dark Seed' you speak of Tony...I've met him up close and he had such a powerful aura of honor...and innocence about him...like no other person i've ever met. I'm not cancelling him out as a possibility but I really, really, don't think its him. Plus, this 'Dark Seed' doesn't even necessarily have to be a person, it could be an artifact, or a weapon of some kind. Thats why I have to analyze the alien technology you found so I can learn everything I can about it...and possibly find a potential origin" Reed looked over and saw Lois Lane and Clark Kent walk in...he recognized them from this morning's press conference. He stared at Clark for a second...he looked very, very familiar...then the realization hit him.

"Tony, go back into the party, enjoy yourself, drink lots of water...and if anyone asks just say its Vodka...but act normal and don't tip anyone off anymore then we have already...we will find a solution to this problem, I promise you that. I'll talk to you a little later, theres something I need to get off my mind" Reed said. He walked up to Lois, Clark, and Oliver who were exchanging words.

"Hello Miss Lane.....Mr Kent...I'm Reed Richards. With the commotion of press conferences and all, and of course, the giant robot attack, we never got a chance to be formerly acquainted" Reed said as he shook both their hands.

"Mr. Kent, I am a huge fan of your journalism...can I ask you a few questions about some of your articles?" Reed said, trying to get Clark away from the others so he could talk to him alone.

 

[Batman]

"Oh, Lois, the usual. Wine, women, dancing, thrilling plane crashes onto deserted islands. Speaking of, how'd you like the exclusive? I considered giving it to Wolf Blitzer, but not only are you a much better reporter, you're much better looking. So what do you say?"

...

Did he just...

...

Wow.Even I have to admit,that was...unexpected.Lois,however,doesn't seem as surprised.Happy,but not surprised.

"Why,Mr.Queen...After that last compliment...How could I say no?"

...I'm almost tempted to say 'Hey,I complimented you too'...But...The first compliment came from a 'kansas farmboy'...The second one came from a millionaire.Or billionaire.I don't even know,quite honestly.But I can see why she'd take his compliment over mine.

Just then,I notice Reed Richards coming towards us.

"Hello Miss Lane.....Mr Kent...I'm Reed Richards. With the commotion of press conferences and all, and of course, the giant robot attack, we never got a chance to be formerly acquainted" Reed said as he shook both their hands.

Mr. Kent, I am a huge fan of your journalism...can I ask you a few questions about some of your articles?" Reed said, trying to get Clark away from the others so he could talk to him alone.

I raise an eyebrow.

...He's read one of my articles?A huge fan of my journalism?

Something isn't right about this.Especially considering,when you take my full career as a journalist you'll only find one worthwhile story.And that was one I shared with Lois.Which...strangely,was the arrival of Superman.

So...Why would he say that?

Unless there's something bigger,here.Something that I'm not getting...

I nod anyway.It's not like Lois needs me,here.

"I'd be happy to answer any questions,Dr.Richards."

Whatever his true motive...I'm interested,to say the least.

 

[Sparta*]

<Mister Fantastic>

Reed and Clark slowly made their way further and further from Oliver and Lois until they reached a hall with no one else around.

"I found your article on Superman.....extremly interesting to say the least Clark. I find him to be very fascinating...I have never seen anyone in my life, or even heard of anyone that could manage the feats he pulls off. The speed he can travel at...and the other things he can do...I don't even fully suspect him to be human. What do you think Mr. Kent? You and Lois seem to be the only people he somewhat confides in...do you know where he might be from...or the extent of his powers? Scientifically he is an anomaly, and being a scientist myself, I find myself entoxicated by what I cannot understand" Reed said with an underlying tone in his voice