One Universe: Season IV IC Thread

[trustyside-kick]

Thor did not hesitate. He had not the luxury of time to do so. Mounting the sea horse, he and Aquaman took off, headed for Orm's lair.

After the destruction of his kingdom, the ruins of Poseidon had been untouched. No longer were there any riches for pillagers to try to sank, and no longer was great knowledge and technology obtainable from its great library and armory. Some fish and other creatures who dwell in the depths would dare not to wander into the waters of the dead city out of fear and believe it to have been cursed. But Orin with his deductive skils had his own theories. The few times he would visit his old, destroyed, Kingdom the purpose was because strange citings and occurrences had been originating from the dead city.

However each and everytime the Marine Marvel would wander into the cold and murky waters, he would find nothing. He dreaded magic, even though it has always been part of his life and his people and culture, and it felt as though there had been a strange dark and powerful magic that was casted over that city after it was demolished by the Fire Trolls.

It is to this location, that the Aquatice Ace guides Thor to. And this time, the presence of magic feels...abundantly stronger. Also this time...the one behind the mischievous and unknown deeds reveals himself.

"Orm."

"My dear brother Orin! I see you have brought the thunder oaf with you. Aha! It would appear that you are learning. Do you like the battle arena before you? I have been slowly making it my new home for quite some time. But I had to be quiet...and patient. Look at your former Kingdom, Orin! Do you like what I've done with the place?!?"

Dismounting Storm, the former King of Poseidonis and King of the Western Atlantean Kingdom walks along the sea floor. All around him is rubble, with magical runes and other symbols unknown to him carved in; glowly with an uncanny blue and green light. As Orin walks past a certain set of runes, he notices something peculiar, and falls down to one knee, cringing and trying to cover his ears as his eyes squint.

"Hahahaha! Now you bear witness to what I have been doing this whole time Orin. Too much for you to take! Feel your heart SWARM with the death and souls of the damned! Hear the cries of your dead and loyal subjects, demanding justice for your failure to save them! FEEL THE BURDENS OF A FAILED KING!"

 

[Karem-Knight]

"Excellent work, Spider-Man."

"Now if you'll allow me..."

My fist drives into Amazo's head as hard as I can throw it. The blinded android stumbles back just in time to recieve a screaming elbow from Kara.

"Keep pouring it on!" Captain America yells as he smashes into Amazo with his shield.

Green Lantern hits the android with a blast of green energy. Johnny Storm flicks fireballs at Amazo that are so hot, I can feel the heat on my brow from a dozen yards away.

"Keep pushing!"

Kara, Flash, and I deliver simultaneous punches at speeds approaching the speed of sound. Iron Man hits him with a volley from his repulsor rays.

"Don't give up an inch!"

I can feel my heart leap at Captain America's encouragments...I wonder what it was like fighting with him during World War Two...I'll make sure to ask Pa sometime.

S.H.E.I.L.D. Hellcarrier

Lex looked upon the scene at Stanford, which was little more than a battle zone now thanks to Amazo, with what seemed to be under reaction as the Justice League neared to their victory.

"Mr. President...his shields are down to 11.4% and failing!!! How do you expect to win this!?"

"I told you, Miss Waller...I don't!"

Moving the director of S.H.E.I.L.D. away from the main computer hub; the President then sat down in front of the computer screen manually controlling the android.

***

The sheer amount of force that came from the rest of the League was too much as Amazo could feel his systems failing and all the mechanisms becoming obsolete. The blasts and punches from the heroes kept knocking him back and his he couldn't muster up the smallest fight against them, his creator however; could.

"01010101.....systems failing.....10010010101010100101010101....zzzzzzzzzztttt SELF DESTRUCTION INITIATED."

The heroes watched in horror as the Green Lantern was the first to react trying to create a shield for them and other civilians near by but the explosion happened to quickly to save everyone else.

KABOOM!
And like that, an American city faced it's second catalyst in one day as the explosion managed to kill everyone in a one-mile radius, only those protected by Alan Scott's ring were saved.

***

Amanda Waller recoiled in horror at Luthor's actions and her initial response was filled with rage and hate as she screamed at him. "YOU MONSTER! YOU MURDERED INNOCENT PEOPLE...AGAIN!!!"

"Oh please, Amanda. Like you were any better, I recall the dead scientists that we had murdered a mere two hours ago?" Lex said with a smug attitude. "Yes, but you had people who had nothing to do with this operation killed!? I should testify to your crimes right now..."

"But you won't. See, Miss Waller...without me you'll lose not only your current position, you'll be jailed for your crimes as well as mine. So, please; just keep quiet and calm, I have a press conference to attend to." Lex walked away from his chair and patted her on the shoulder, Waller went silent knowing she was powerless against Lex again and so she overlooked the scene at Stanford with unease and restlessness.

Luthor then boarded Air Force One, his plans had succeed several U.S. citizens had died for this opportunity and he was going to suck the life out of it for the public's approval. The fear that the League could cause further destruction was too horrifying for any human being not to look for help, it was exactly where Lex wanted the world to be in.

 

[Optikal]

Spoiler

-WAR MACHINE-

The Navajo Nation.

War Machine landed in a cloud of dust just a few hundred yards from the white painted house. As he approached the porch, the screen door creaked open and an old grey cat stepped out, quickly followed by an elderly woman with a shotgun levelled at the War Machines head. "Now, I'm not sure who you are, but you'd best have a real good reason for stepping up to my home in my sons old armour!"

From behind his mask, Rhodey couldn't help but grin. "Well Ma'am, I do have a pretty good reason..." he began, moving his hands up to remove his helmet. Pulling the face-plate clear, he grinned widely "...because it's my armour".

Mrs Rhodes stepped back, her eyes widening and her hand covering her mouth. "James! T-they told me you were dead. T-they delivered me your uniform and medals. I've started arranging the funeral!"

Rhodey stepped towards his mother, arms spread. "Well I hope you're going to cancel it".

"B-but they told me..." Mrs Rhodes stammered. Jim stepped forward and she fell into his embrace. "I thought I'd never see you again"

"Shhhh, it's okay momma, I'm here now. I'm home". Rhodey held his mother close, cybernetic hands holding her tight.

"What have they done to you?" she asked.

"They rebuilt me momma. They saved me. There's a lot of replacement parts, but it's still me". As he spoke the words, Rhodey realised that despite holding his mother to his chest, he couldn't feel her against him. He couldn't feel her warmth or her hug or the tears that were soaking into his chestplate. In thast moment he had to wonder whther he was more machine than man and just how much of him was really left.

Mrs Rhodes pulled away and wiped tears from behind her spectacles. "Oh James, I think this sun is getting to me. Let's go inside and I'll put on some tea".

Rhodey followed his mother into the little house and followed her into the kitchen. Mrs Rhodes busied herself with preparing tea, something she had always done to deal with stress. "So, are you going to to be staying? You have some clothes and things upstairs in the back room. Please tell me that armour comes off?

Rhodey placed his helmet on the table and took a seat."Some of it does, but this is who I am now. It was the only way to save me".

Mrs Rhodes peered her head out of the cupboard she was rustling thorugh to glance at him. "And what kind of life is that?"

"I don't know anymore. These implants... they cause me to see things momma. Twenty four hours day I'm gettting news feeds streaming right into my head, from all over the world. Rapes. Murders. Terrorism. I see it all, ma".

Mrs Rhodes brought a teapot and her best china to the table and took a seat herself. "Can't you just turn it off?" she asked, spooning sugar and stirring slowly.

Rhodey shook his head and and tapped his skull."I can't unsee it. And doing nothing is driving me crazy".

"James, you've done enough. Look at you right now. There are more than enough heroes out there to save the world. Leave it to Superman and Captain America and those other heroes, I don't want to lose you again".

"Momma, I can't just stand by, it's not in my nature".

Mrs Rhodes sipped at her tea and gave her son a sad smile."You remember Benny Carlin? The little Latino boy that Raymond Devin and his gang used to beat up? And then that day at school when you stood up for him...?"

Rhodey smiled at the memory. He remembered it like it was yesterday.

"...Two of those boys ended up in hospital, the other two were left rethinking the circles sociaslising in and I lost lost my boy to juvenile detention for 3 months".

Rhodes nodded as he recalled his time in juvie, it had been hard, but he'd managed to keep his nose clean whilst inside. "Some people just can't defend themselves. That doesn't give anyone else the right to beat on them".

Mrs Rhodes nodded solenly, wrapping her hands around her cup."You've spent your entire life fighting other peoples wars, James. Where will it end? How much more do you have to give before enough is enough?"

"I don't know momma, but I have to at least try and make a difference. I have so much power and there are so many people suffering out there, what kind of man would I be if I didn't at least try to help? Please, I need you of all people to understand what I've got to do".

Mrs Rhodes rose and moved around the table, planting a kiss on the human half of Jims face. "I might not like it, but I understand it".​

-WAR MACHINE-

​

Opal City.

It had been three days since Rhodey had visited his mother and made his peace. Now, as he flew through the skies, he had one person on his mind. Thanks to the War Machine satellite hovering just out of orbit, Rhodey had remote access to almosty every database in the world and right now, as he jetted through the clouds on a man the police scanners were reporting as causing mayhem in the financial district of the city.

Gigabytes of information flowed through the system, bringing up the most relevant on Rhodeys H.U.D. His scanners detected the main pulse of activity and dropped into a steep dive, hurtling past buildings and into the city below. The criminal known as BloodRage was in the process of swatting away a hail of police gunfire and assaulting the line of law enforcement mercilessly.

​

"GET OUT OF MY WAY, OR ALLA YOU BASTARDS ARE GONNA PAY!" He yelled, sending a nearby car hurtling into the side of a police cruiser.

His H.U.D flashed up the details as Rhodey landed infront of the villain.

DATA DOWNLOAD COMPLETE...

INITIALIZING...

SUBJECT: BLOODRAGE

IDENTITY: UNCONFIRMED

POWER: HAEMOVORE. ABILITY TO EXTRACT ENERGY FROM BLOOD OF THOSE IN CLOSE CONTACT. UTILIZES ENERGY TO GAIN SUPERHUMAN ATTRIBUTES.

CRIMIAL RECORD: TERRORISM. ROBBERY. PROPERTY DAMAGE. MANSLAUGHTER. MURDER.

KILL NUMBER: 926.

Rhodeys shoulder cannons and wrist mounted weapons levelled at the man calling himself BloodRage. "Kid, you just picked the wrong day to play this little game. Dead or alive, you're coming with me".

 

[Byrd Man]

The sheer amount of force that came from the rest of the League was too much as Amazo could feel his systems failing and all the mechanisms becoming obsolete. The blasts and punches from the heroes kept knocking him back and his he couldn't muster up the smallest fight against them, his creator however; could.

"01010101.....systems failing.....10010010101010100101010101....zzzzzzzzzztttt SELF DESTRUCTION INITIATED."

The heroes watched in horror as the Green Lantern was the first to react trying to create a shield for them and other civilians near by but the explosion happened to quickly to save everyone else.

KABOOM!
And like that, an American city faced it's second catalyst in one day as the explosion managed to kill everyone in a one-mile radius, only those protected by Alan Scott's ring were saved.

Captain America

I fall to the ground with a hard thump.
The flash of the explosion blinds me temporarily, unable to see anything besides shapes in the whiteness.

My ears buzz and ring so loudly, I can't even hear the voice of the man standing over me. I can

"What?!"

"...des....all.....own....de....ever...."

My eyes finally adjust. Alan.

"Destruction is all......it's our own fa...destr....everything...."

I shake the cobwebs loose from my head and actually manage to stand. All around me, the rest of the Justice League and Titans try their best to recover. Superman, hardly looking rattled, flies off into the sky.

"Where's he going?"

"He's going to search."

"For the rest of Amazo?"

"No, the survivors."

Alan's words catch me off guard. I look around the scene.

"Oh my God."

The entire town is gone. Leveled by Amazo's blast.

"It's our fault, dammit. We should have led Amazo out of the city!"

"Calm down, Alan. There will be time to play the blame game later. Right now, we have to help Superman search for those in need of help."

But Alan's right. We should have led the android away from any civilian lives that were in danger. It's not their fault, it's my fault. I'm supposed to be the great tactician, the great planner. I didn't see this coming. What was I thinking? This isn't some battlefield in France where all the warm bodies are German soldiers. Innocent people are dead...all because of me.

"Steve? You alright? You look a little green under the gills."

"I'm fine," I say as I fight the nausea that's building in my stomach. I turn back to the other superheroes.

"Justice League, Teen Titans. We need to follow Superman's lead. There could be survivors out there, our top priority is finding them. Let's go."

 

[wiegeabo]

"01010101.....systems failing.....10010010101010100101010101....zzzzzzzzzztttt SELF DESTRUCTION INIT-"

NO! The world slows to an utter crawl as realization dawns on me what Amazo is about to do. And how little time I have to act.

"-IAT-"

I have an entire street cleared out, and already starting on the next. At least a dozen families moved out of the city and harms way before they realize what's happened.

"-ED."

I finish clearing out the block and turn back towards the city-

Everything goes white.

I'm vaguely aware of my body being airborne, and then slamming into the ground over and over again. But my mind's effectively shut down by the world's biggest flash-bang.

By the time I can squint my eyes open again, my skull feels like it's been split in half. I touch my face and feel it's coated with a sticky film of blood. Half the bones in my body are trying to knit themselves back together, and every nerve burns like it's on fire.

I crawl to my knees and try to regain my bearings. The world finally comes back into focus, and all I see is-

"No..."

What used to be Stanford is mostly now a smoking, smoldering crater in the ground.

"No."

The air smells of burned ash, and everything is so quiet. Not a sound. Not a single sound of life.

"NOOO!!!!"

I drop my head in my hands and fall back onto the ground. I wasn't fast enough. I should have been fast enough. Why wasn't I fast enough?

"There wasn't enough time. Not enough time." My face feels wet in my hands, but I know it's not from the blood. "Why wasn't there enough time!" I shout to the sky in anger, making my voice raw until it's not much more than a whisper.

"There's always supposed to be enough time..."

 

[Byrd Man]

The air smells of burned ash, and everything is so quiet. Not a sound. Not a single sound of life.

"NOOO!!!!"

I drop my head in my hands and fall back onto the ground. I wasn't fast enough. I should have been fast enough. Why wasn't I fast enough?

"There wasn't enough time. Not enough time." My face feels wet in my hands, but I know it's not from the blood. "Why wasn't there enough time!" I shout to the sky in anger, making my voice raw until it's not much more than a whisper.

"There's always supposed to be enough time..."

"Flash." I touch down on the ground next to him, gently placing my hand on his shoulder.

"Jay..."

He keeps his head down, consumed by his guilt. It's a feeling we all share.

"Have you found any survivors, Superman?" Green Lantern asks with Captain America on his heels.

"No."

"We've got to keep loo-"

"No...I may not be as fast as Flash, but I was able to check out almost every part of the city...there are no survivors."

"The whole city?"

"Everyone within a three mile radius," I say with a sigh. "They're all gone."

"What have we done?"

 

[Optikal]

​

"A word of advice, if I may, Marc?" Frenchie offered, as he worked on retrieving the metal from his friends back. The wound was jagged, blood was everywhere, it didn't look promising.

"Go for it."

"Perhaps you should try not getting shot so much."

Marc laughed as he lay prone on a cold kitchen table. He used to have a whole setup with a cave and everything, but now he figured, why hide it? Who really cared? He wouldn't be throwing any parties anytime soon. So there was really no need to be underground.

"What's next on the agenda?" he asked, changing the subject. He was anxious to get back out into the field. There were plenty of scumbags that needed bustin' up.

"Let's see," he heard Frenchie say, immediately followed by the sound of him dropping a tiny piece of metal in a bowl nearby. "You've got a surveillance operation, which you should cancel, scheduled for 2230."

He groaned. "I'm not cancelling anything Frenchie. What time is it now?"

"2220."

"Damn it. Patch me up, we're running late."

 

[Carnage27]

One second. That's all it takes. One second, the League, the Titans, and I are pounding on Amazo, and the next an intense explosion blinds me, and sends me flying through the air. I hit the ground God knows how far away, and I bounce three or four times like a drive off of Tiger Woods's driver.

I black out for a few seconds, at least I think it's a few seconds. I attempt to regain my footing, but can only manage to get up on all fours.

My ears are ringing like I stood next to a speaker at an AC/DC concert for six hours, but all my other senses seem to be heightened. I can feel every spec of dusts and debris in the air as the brush against my skin, exposed from my tattered suite. I feel every drop of blood that drips from a gash on my forehead. I can distinctly see every brick, every girder, and every pane of glass fall off crumbling buildings.

But most of all I see the bodies. Bodies everywhere. They line the streets like snow in the winter. I've seen mass amounts of death before. The Galactus situation and Magneto's attack immediately spring to mind. But this is different. Amazo was an opponent we could have beaten easily, and one we could have drawn out of the city. But we didn't. We fought him here, and now these people are dead. And it's our fault.

I manage to get on my feet, and I begin to stumble through the streets like a drunken zombie, the sights too much even for me, Spider-man, to handle. Half way down a main avenue, I stumble and fall next to a teenage girl, one with a striking resemblance to a friend.

"She looks like Gwen..." I whisper to myself. I brush the girl's blond hair out of her face, and a striking realization is driven home. This is someone's Gwen. Someone's best friend. Someone's daughter. Someone's girlfriend. And the streets of Stanford are lined with them. Hundreds, maybe thousands of husbands, wives, and children lie dead around me.

And for the first time that I can remember, I let the overwhelming job that is being a super hero get to me. The sights of Stanford bore deep into my core, I put my head in my hands, and stream of tears begins to flow from my eyes.

"It isn't supposed to be like this!" I yell at no one in particular.

 

[Karem-Knight]

S.H.E.I.L.D. Hellcarrier

Lex looked upon the scene at Stanford, which was little more than a battle zone now thanks to Amazo, with what seemed to be under reaction as the Justice League neared to their victory.

"Mr. President...his shields are down to 11.4% and failing!!! How do you expect to win this!?"

"I told you, Miss Waller...I don't!"

Moving the director of S.H.E.I.L.D. away from the main computer hub; the President then sat down in front of the computer screen manually controlling the android.

***

The sheer amount of force that came from the rest of the League was too much as Amazo could feel his systems failing and all the mechanisms becoming obsolete. The blasts and punches from the heroes kept knocking him back and his he couldn't muster up the smallest fight against them, his creator however; could.

"01010101.....systems failing.....10010010101010100101010101....zzzzzzzzzztttt SELF DESTRUCTION INITIATED."

The heroes watched in horror as the Green Lantern was the first to react trying to create a shield for them and other civilians near by but the explosion happened to quickly to save everyone else.

KABOOM!
And like that, an American city faced it's second catalyst in one day as the explosion managed to kill everyone in a one-mile radius, only those protected by Alan Scott's ring were saved.

***

Amanda Waller recoiled in horror at Luthor's actions and her initial response was filled with rage and hate as she screamed at him. "YOU MONSTER! YOU MURDERED INNOCENT PEOPLE...AGAIN!!!"

"Oh please, Amanda. Like you were any better, I recall the dead scientists that we had murdered a mere two hours ago?" Lex said with a smug attitude. "Yes, but you had people who had nothing to do with this operation killed!? I should testify to your crimes right now..."

"But you won't. See, Miss Waller...without me you'll lose not only your current position, you'll be jailed for your crimes as well as mine. So, please; just keep quiet and calm, I have a press conference to attend to." Lex walked away from his chair and patted her on the shoulder, Waller went silent knowing she was powerless against Lex again and so she overlooked the scene at Stanford with unease and restlessness.

Luthor then boarded Air Force One, his plans had succeed several U.S. citizens had died for this opportunity and he was going to suck the life out of it for the public's approval. The fear that the League could cause further destruction was too horrifying for any human being not to look for help, it was exactly where Lex wanted the world to be in.

The Pentagon

It had been just under two hours since Amazo had caused the deaths of thousands of American citizens inside their own country in Stanford, Connecticut. Images of it had been broadcasting round the world now as millions saw Superman and the rest of the Justice League fail to stop a threat and the cost had been to great for anyone to imagine, the press were inside the Pentagon anxiously waiting the arrival of President Lex Luthor whose so-called flight from Paris had been directed away back to Washington D.C. for a response to the crisis, they were in panic, in fear and looking for the government for support as they saw their heroes failing them.

Luthor waited just backstage preparing for his speech as he over-looked it, the entire room was filled in silence as the panic struck them all inside as memories of events like Pearl Harbour, 9/11, the Darkseid and Galacticus' invasions all came flooding back into their minds. Upon seeing the image of Superman defeated, Lex tried to contain himself to gloat later and so kept the persona of a leader in mourning intact for the world as his make up was ready, his suit adjusted accordingly, he walked on to the main stage as he saw the cameras all shining on him and the journalists taking notes as he was about to show the world why they needed him.

"Good afternoon, my fellow Americans. I have just received word of the incident in Stanford, Connecticut that caused mass destruction, death and turmoil to the city with the android known as Amazo. We don't know the amount of casualties but we believe that many of the residents of the city have indeed lost their lives, I have already ordered for several army and emergency personnel to contain the situation there.

In accordance to whom has ordered this attack on American territory, our biggest suspects maybe involved with the Latverian government; however officials have said they do not know about the attack and their leader, Victor Von Doom has disclosed he knows nothing of the incident. But I assure you, whomever has ordered this will pay retribution and face justice for this uncalled for and complete disregard for human life!The Avengers, C.I.A., Secret Service, F.B.I., S.H.E.I.L.D. and many more have been given the task of researching and uncovering this plot which has now become a high priority for our government."

Luthor looked around the room as he saw he had everyone in the room paying close attention to him, Ben Urich from the Daily Bugle, Jack Ryder from the Gotham Gazette, Vic Sage from Hub news, Linda Park and even Lois Lane from the Daily Planet was desperate for guidance at this time.

"And though, I am shocked at this crisis...and remorseful, I cannot say that this was completely unexpected. Ever since the arrival of the meta-humans and mutants have arrived, it has caused a great amount of damage and burden on the common people like ourselves to contain and still feel safe. We think we can trust them, all of them, but I ask you; after today do you still feel safe? First it was Stanford, what after that? What if our enemies start getting more and more powerful and the next target is New York City? Metropolis? Even a small town where the super-humans can cause more damage, yes time and time again people like the Justice League have saved us from threats we alone cannot fight against, but there have been times like today where innocent lives have been lost. In a much smaller scale of course, but we still feel the same impact we did today!

Not all the battles they fight are dark Gods or aliens whom wish to obliterate the Earth, some are men whom have been gifted with special talents unlike those of us "normal folk", like the mutant known as Magneto. A man whom grew up in a Poland and experienced an atrocity and seeks to rein-act on human beings and nearly succeeded. And whoever has orchestrated the attack on Stanford, did it for one purpose only: to kill."

All around the room several faces seemed contempt with the idea that Luthor was going forward to and after what had happened, they seemed contempt with the idea. All except Lois Lane, who starred at Lex itching to get her point across.

"Before my campaign begun for this position, I had thought about a new and stricter approach to the meta-humans and mutants whom live inside our world and our country. My proposal for the Sentinels to be sanctioned by the American Government was not seen well with the public at first, but now I see the fear and panic that I have for this has now set with some of you now. The first part of my proposal includes the re-establishment of the Sentinel army once more and the second; a bill that has not been thought of before this sudden emergence but has been talked about the last few months; the "Superhuman Registration Act."

In order to explain the basics of the Act, it requires both the men and women of the world whom have super-powers, access to magic or advanced technology to register themselves as a living weapon of mass destruction. This may seem harsh, but as many men of history have said "desperate times, call for desperate measures" and believe me, I do not want to be the one to in force this to people whom have saved us countless of occasions, but this is a necessity.

In the coming months, I will look to it that the Senate takes a look into the bill and within the coming weeks a democratic vote will passed onto the public to decide for both bills. In the meantime, I will be having The Avengers and ourselves on strong duty watching over the American people,

Thank you for you time and I hope we can prevail as a nation over this difficult time."

 

[Keyser Soze]

After the destruction of his kingdom, the ruins of Poseidon had been untouched. No longer were there any riches for pillagers to try to sank, and no longer was great knowledge and technology obtainable from its great library and armory. Some fish and other creatures who dwell in the depths would dare not to wander into the waters of the dead city out of fear and believe it to have been cursed. But Orin with his deductive skils had his own theories. The few times he would visit his old, destroyed, Kingdom the purpose was because strange citings and occurrences had been originating from the dead city.

However each and everytime the Marine Marvel would wander into the cold and murky waters, he would find nothing. He dreaded magic, even though it has always been part of his life and his people and culture, and it felt as though there had been a strange dark and powerful magic that was casted over that city after it was demolished by the Fire Trolls.

It is to this location, that the Aquatice Ace guides Thor to. And this time, the presence of magic feels...abundantly stronger. Also this time...the one behind the mischievous and unknown deeds reveals himself.

"Orm."

"My dear brother Orin! I see you have brought the thunder oaf with you. Aha! It would appear that you are learning. Do you like the battle arena before you? I have been slowly making it my new home for quite some time. But I had to be quiet...and patient. Look at your former Kingdom, Orin! Do you like what I've done with the place?!?"

Dismounting Storm, the former King of Poseidonis and King of the Western Atlantean Kingdom walks along the sea floor. All around him is rubble, with magical runes and other symbols unknown to him carved in; glowly with an uncanny blue and green light. As Orin walks past a certain set of runes, he notices something peculiar, and falls down to one knee, cringing and trying to cover his ears as his eyes squint.

"Hahahaha! Now you bear witness to what I have been doing this whole time Orin. Too much for you to take! Feel your heart SWARM with the death and souls of the damned! Hear the cries of your dead and loyal subjects, demanding justice for your failure to save them! FEEL THE BURDENS OF A FAILED KING!"

Thor moved forward, Mjolnir raised overhead.

"Give me the boy and surrender yourself, or you shall feel the burden of my hammer on your skull!"

 

[Keyser Soze]

Hey, folks, make sure you get a good shot of this!

I kneel amidst the wreckage, smoke hissing off my armor. The explosion rocked me, but I've not got a scratch on me. I'm lucky enough to afford a multi-billion dollar suit of armor....

Hey, folks, make sure you get a good shot of this!

Men, women, children, all around me the charred corpses of the innocent litter the streets.

Hey, folks, make sure you get a good shot of this!

I could have saved them. I could have done something! I saw how crowded the area was, how densely packed it was with civilians. And my big brain processed that, and didn't think to move them to safety. All I could think about was how good I looked for the cameras.

Hey, folks, make sure you get a good shot of this!

Hey folks, make sure you stay right where you are. No need to run for safety. Ol' Iron Man's got everything under control. You can trust me, you'll be safe...

"Hey folks.... make sure you... make sure you get..."

OhGodImgonnabesick...

"BLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEUUUUUUUUURGGGHHHH!"

I pull my helmet off just in time before spraying vomit onto the street in front of me. I fall down onto my hands and knees, right there in the middle of the road, and start to sob like a child.

Hey, folks, make sure you get a good shot of this!

God, I could kill for a drink.

 

[Byrd Man]

Superman's words hit me like a shot to the stomach. No survivors...except us. Jay still stares off into space, shocked and mumbling about being too slow. Iron Man vomits on the ground. Even our youngest members, Spider-Man's Titans, are consumed with guilt.

"Do you hear that?"

It takes a few seconds before the noise can be heard by us all. The whine of engines. The whine of helicarriers. SHIELD Helicarriers.

"Attention Justice League," a voice in the helicarrier booms out.

"You are required to accompany us to the Pentagon for debriefing on the incident here."

Suddenly, all eyes turn to me. They all look towards me for answers. Why? What makes me so special? I got shot up with a super-solider serum and beat on a couple of goofy costumed guys while the foot soldiers really beat the Axis. I survived in a slab of ice for a couple of decades, while my best friend died. How does that qualify me to lead these people? To endanger their lives, and the lives of others.

"Cap?" Spider-Man asks.

"I...I don't know what to do....I just....don't know."
​

 

[Carnage27]

"Attention Justice League," a voice in the helicarrier booms out.

"You are required to accompany us to the Pentagon for debriefing on the incident here."

Suddenly, all eyes turn to me. They all look towards me for answers. Why? What makes me so special? I got shot up with a super-solider serum and beat on a couple of goofy costumed guys while the foot soldiers really beat the Axis. I survived in a slab of ice for a couple of decades, while my best friend died. How does that qualify me to lead these people? To endanger their lives, and the lives of others.

"Cap?" Spider-Man asks.

"I...I don't know what to do....I just....don't know."
​

Captain America's words shake me even further to the core. Possibly the greatest American hero ever born, one of the greatest leader of men the world has ever known, has no idea what to do. What's a guy like me supposed to do?

I look around at the Titans. My team. Kara has her head burried in her knees, sobbing slightly. Johnny and Bobby, two of the most talkative and cocky kids I've ever met are dead silent, Johnny kicking around a rock at his feet and Bobby just staring at the sky, not wanting to look at the destruction around him.

"What if it's a trap?" I mutter, and all eyes suddenly lock on to me. "Luthor wants us gone. That's no secret. What if this is a trap? What if we go with them and end up at some Gitmo for meta humans, never to be seen or heard from again?"

 

[Karem-Knight]

Hub City:

Vic Sage sat on his desk as the local news channel was about to broadcast the startling news story of the incident at Stanford, Connecticut; sitting patiently his camera man counted down the number of seconds till the show was live, on zero Sage then began.

"Hello and welcome to Hub News, I'm Vic Sage and tonight's top story: Disaster in Stanford. Just a few hours ago, the android known as Amazo returned unannounced to the city and provoked a fight with the Justice League of America. What looked like a simple super-powered fight ended in catastrophe as the machine combusted, leaving a disastrous explosion; the death toll is believed to be just under one thousand people.

In response to this, President Luthor issued a statement earlier today."

As the images of the carnage and war were shown they then cut to the President's speech which was given just under an hour ago.

"Good afternoon, my fellow Americans. I have just received word of the incident in Stanford, Connecticut that caused mass destruction, death and turmoil to the city with the android known as Amazo. We don't know the amount of casualties but we believe that many of the residents of the city have indeed lost their lives, I have already ordered for several army and emergency personnel to contain the situation there.

In accordance to whom has ordered this attack on American territory, our biggest suspects maybe involved with the Latverian government; however officials have said they do not know about the attack and their leader, Victor Von Doom has disclosed he knows nothing of the incident. But I assure you, whomever has ordered this will pay retribution and face justice for this uncalled for and complete disregard for human life!The Avengers, C.I.A., Secret Service, F.B.I., S.H.E.I.L.D. and many more have been given the task of researching and uncovering this plot which has now become a high priority for our government."

"And though, I am shocked at this crisis...and remorseful, I cannot say that this was completely unexpected. Ever since the arrival of the meta-humans and mutants have arrived, it has caused a great amount of damage and burden on the common people like ourselves to contain and still feel safe. We think we can trust them, all of them, but I ask you; after today do you still feel safe? First it was Stanford, what after that? What if our enemies start getting more and more powerful and the next target is New York City? Metropolis? Even a small town where the super-humans can cause more damage, yes time and time again people like the Justice League have saved us from threats we alone cannot fight against, but there have been times like today where innocent lives have been lost. In a much smaller scale of course, but we still feel the same impact we did today!

Not all the battles they fight are dark Gods or aliens whom wish to obliterate the Earth, some are men whom have been gifted with special talents unlike those of us "normal folk", like the mutant known as Magneto. A man whom grew up in a Poland and experienced an atrocity and seeks to rein-act on human beings and nearly succeeded. And whoever has orchestrated the attack on Stanford, did it for one purpose only: to kill."

"Before my campaign begun for this position, I had thought about a new and stricter approach to the meta-humans and mutants whom live inside our world and our country. My proposal for the Sentinels to be sanctioned by the American Government was not seen well with the public at first, but now I see the fear and panic that I have for this has now set with some of you now. The first part of my proposal includes the re-establishment of the Sentinel army once more and the second; a bill that has not been thought of before this sudden emergence but has been talked about the last few months; the "Superhuman Registration Act."

In order to explain the basics of the Act, it requires both the men and women of the world whom have super-powers, access to magic or advanced technology to register themselves as a living weapon of mass destruction. This may seem harsh, but as many men of history have said "desperate times, call for desperate measures" and believe me, I do not want to be the one to in force this to people whom have saved us countless of occasions, but this is a necessity.

In the coming months, I will look to it that the Senate takes a look into the bill and within the coming weeks a democratic vote will passed onto the public to decide for both bills. In the meantime, I will be having The Avengers and ourselves on strong duty watching over the American people,

Thank you for you time and I hope we can prevail as a nation over this difficult time."

The recorded tape of the President's response was shown as Vic continued his broadcast imminently with a stern look of sorrow at the announcement.

"Government officials have said that the Superhuman Registration Act will be given a vote to the Senate than the public in the coming weeks but that the President wishes the decision to be made sooner in order to prevent further catastrophes..."

***

After the news was stopped, Sage then walked out into a rooftop with his trench-coat on wearing a fedora hat as he got out his journal looking through the various mysteries he wished to uncover; the last however made his top priority.

J.F.K. assassination and Beatles link?

Possibly.

Aliens have been broadcasting television sitcoms in order to dumb down American citizens for planned invasion?

No.

Illuminanti behind the rise of the Jonas Brothrs and Justin Biebeer?

Unlikely

9/11 caused by Bush Administration?

Star Wars trilogy remake in the works, to cause civil unrest and panic in America?

Highly likely.

Vic looked through his journal, all of these needed to wait as his next mystery needed to be solved in order for the entire world to be safe from unexpected reprisals, the villainous use of popcorn would have to wait.

Stanford attack and S.H.A. link? So close together, could Luthor Administration have planned in advance?

Need to find out...

Looking over his shoulder, Vic begun to think of the mysterious events behind Luthor's proposals; the public seemed to be on his side. But fear and panic are handy tools in a politicians arsenal, getting out his mask Vic placed it on his face as the gas sprayed everywhere and begun talking to himself.

"These are questions....."

"....that need answers!"

***

I stay a moment in pure concentration as a journalist and a detective, I know the task I'm about to embark on could potentially have high implications for the entire world, not just America. The first thing I ask myself is what could be Luthor's motivation for the S.H.A.? Before running for President, Luthor obviously seemed very concerned with containing the meta-human and mutant threat, especially with Superman's arrival and after the invasion from Darkseid gained more admiration from the public than he already had as C.E.O. of LexCorp. Also, Luthor's popularity didn't start to falter until the Kahndaq incident last month where The Avengers and Sentinel forces caused the deaths of several men, women and children; with backing from Tony Stark and Captain America a.k.a. Steve Rogers (a former employee of his) is what caused his brief fall in public popularity; an encounter with Superman happened a few hours shortly after Roger's appearance on the Daily Show (Could John Stewart also possibly be linked to the Justice League?). I then draw up a chart of my findings in order to make sense of it all;

Luthor's fall from public image.

Contempt for people with special abilities. (A near obsession?)

Thor leaving The Avengers in disgust of Luthor's handling?

The S.H.A. rumours spreading in between Kahndaq and Stanford.

Amazo 2.0's mysterious disappearance with no possible trace to his task?

"Hmmm.."

I'm going to need to take an absence of leave once more, find potential leads and use some of my allies to help me obtain information from Washington; the evidence seems solid only traces of it have disappeared for the Administration's benefit. Taking off my voice monitor, I call up my work station and speak in my normal voice. "Hello, Sarah? It's Vic here. Can you get Gary to replace me for the next couple of days; I'm going to Washington for the next couple of days to find out more about this Stanford thing; would that be alright?"


"It should be fine, Vic. But make sure you actually get the story this time; I don't want any nonsense to U.F.O.'s being responsible for the emergence of Playboy magazine..." Hanging up the phone, I then walk down the alleyway close by and notice something from behind; a gunshot as a woman screams. "GIMIE YOUR PURSE YOU ****E!!" I hear the voice of a man, obviously the one whom fired the gun cry out. Running towards him, he then notices me; pointing the gun I grab a near-by garbage can and throw it to his feet as I grab hold of his hand and break his nose with my fist. "Here you go, Miss."

Handing it to her she smiles and then is in confusion as to where my face actually is; "Long story." I answer her as I get my grapple hook out and launch myself to the skyscraper, making more notes on the subject of President Luthor.

 

[Keyser Soze]

Captain America's words shake me even further to the core. Possibly the greatest American hero ever born, one of the greatest leader of men the world has ever known, has no idea what to do. What's a guy like me supposed to do?

I look around at the Titans. My team. Kara has her head burried in her knees, sobbing slightly. Johnny and Bobby, two of the most talkative and cocky kids I've ever met are dead silent, Johnny kicking around a rock at his feet and Bobby just staring at the sky, not wanting to look at the destruction around him.

"What if it's a trap?" I mutter, and all eyes suddenly lock on to me. "Luthor wants us gone. That's no secret. What if this is a trap? What if we go with them and end up at some Gitmo for meta humans, never to be seen or heard from again?"

"The kid's right. They've given us no reason to trust them, and plenty of reason not to. All of us just giving up to them would be stupid."

I stand up, still feeling nauseous from shame. This is my fault. I was too wrapped up in this publicity war with Luthor, thinking about looking good, to do my job and protect innocent people.

"But on the other hand, it would be just as stupid for us all to run. Luthor does want us gone, and I think it's clear he'll use any excuse to go after us. If we all run, it'll be like some admission of guilt. No, I have a solution...."

I take a glance at Steve. Poor guy looks like he's got the world on his shoulders. But it's not his fault. He did all he could. Where was I when he was getting his ass handed to him by Amazo? Posing for the camera phones.

"...I'll surrender."

I can see the words of protest forming on the lips of some of my teammates, but I raise a hand to stop them.

"Look, I know what I'm doing. This isn't some martyr crap. It makes sense that I be the guy who hands myself over for questioning. I'm Tony Stark, the most famous man on the planet. It'll be hard to make me disappear. But one more thing..."

I open up a compartment within my suit, and activate an emergency release mechanism. My suit falls apart around me, leaving me standing there in my undersuit.

"Take my armor away with you, each of you take a piece of it. S.H.I.E.L.D. has already tried to steal my technology, and I'm not about to let them confiscate my suit so they can disect it."

 

[Byrd Man]

"...I'll surrender."

I can see the words of protest forming on the lips of some of my teammates, but I raise a hand to stop them.

"Look, I know what I'm doing. This isn't some martyr crap. It makes sense that I be the guy who hands myself over for questioning. I'm Tony Stark, the most famous man on the planet. It'll be hard to make me disappear. But one more thing..."

I open up a compartment within my suit, and activate an emergency release mechanism. My suit falls apart around me, leaving me standing there in my undersuit.

"Take my armor away with you, each of you take a piece of it. S.H.I.E.L.D. has already tried to steal my technology, and I'm not about to let them confiscate my suit so they can disect it."

Iceman and Johnny Storm begin picking up the pieces of Tony's armor.

"I don't agree with this, Tony...but I respect your decision."

"I should go too."

I turn to look at Steve.

"No, you can't."

"My identity is just as public as Tony's. Add to the fact I was just as belligerent in criticizing Luthor. If we leave, they'll come for me."

"You're not the only one who has a public identity. What abo-"

"Go, Superman."

He hands me his shield. It feels strange in my hands, a bit like kissing your friend's mom.

"That goes for the rest of you. As my last act as Justice League field leader," He slips his mask off and gives us a reassuring smile.

"I order a full retreat. Get out while you still can."

 

[Carnage27]

I stand and attempt to compose myself. I'm a leader of a team now, and I need to act like one. I walk over and pick up Iron Man's helmet, and web it up on my back like a backpack. Looking up to the rest of the Titans I say, "You heard the man, Titans. It's time to get out of here. Kara," I say placing my hand on her shoulder, "I need a lift. We'll rendezvous at Xavier's Mansion and figure out our next move."

She nods and stands, and even her, the indestructible girl, seems knocked out by the events of the night, "Yea...okay."

"No need to fly," Bobby says, opening up a comm link. "Professor, have Blink open a portal up. We need to get out of here now."

A pink portal appears out of the blue in front of us, and my three teammates step in, but not before saying their goodbyes to the rest of the League. I turn to my other teammates, "Let me know what our next move is. I'll be waiting in New York."

I step through the portal and am instantly in the atrium of the Xavier Institute, and am greeted by the Titans, along with a pink mutant and Professor Xavier himself, "Hello, Spider-man. It is nice to see you again. I wish it was under better circumstances."

"Nice to see you too, Professor," I huff. "You may want to get ready for the government. Who knows what they'll do with you guys knowing Bobby was with us."

"We will be prepared, young man. I'm sure they'll have other reasons to come after us rather than just Mr. Drake. Now, if you want, Blink will be able to transport you back to your homes."

Kara goes first, and I make a mental note to call her and make sure she's okay tomorrow. Then Johnny and I are teleported back to New York. I look over at the Human Torch, "If they come after you, come find me. We'll hide you somewhere."

"Sounds good," he says, taking off and hovering in front of me. "I'll be in touch."

After he's gone, I swing back home and head into my bead room. I collapse onto the bed after changing into a pair of gym shorts. The fatigue overtakes me, and I fall into a deep sleep.

 

[Byrd Man]

​

I stand and attempt to compose myself. I'm a leader of a team now, and I need to act like one. I walk over and pick up Iron Man's helmet, and web it up on my back like a backpack. Looking up to the rest of the Titans I say, "You heard the man, Titans. It's time to get out of here. Kara," I say placing my hand on her shoulder, "I need a lift. We'll rendezvous at Xavier's Mansion and figure out our next move."

She nods and stands, and even her, the indestructible girl, seems knocked out by the events of the night, "Yea...okay."

"No need to fly," Bobby says, opening up a comm link. "Professor, have Blink open a portal up. We need to get out of here now."

A pink portal appears out of the blue in front of us, and my three teammates step in, but not before saying their goodbyes to the rest of the League. I turn to my other teammates, "Let me know what our next move is. I'll be waiting in New York."

Spider-Man and the Titans disappear through the portal. I'll have to remember to speak to Kara once she gets home. Besides Cap and Iron Man, only Flash, Green Lantern, and myself remain. The SHIELD herlicarrier inches towards us.

"I don't like this."

"You told me your father served with me, Superman."

"Yes. It's something he never forgot."

"Chances are he knew how to take orders. I trust you can follow orders as well."

"But-"

"Get moving, solider."

A fire that I've rarely seen flashes in Cap's eyes. This is probably the same look he gave all his old war enemies years ago. It's a look that shows that, while you may not agree with this man, either follow him or stay out of his way.

"I'll be keeping an eye on things."

"I trust you will."

I take off from the ground and head high into the air, going fast enough to avoid the jets and other SHIELD aircraft that are starting to gather in Connecticut.

*****

Superman leaves in the blink of an eye. Besides Tony, only the old farts are left. Alan hovers in the air, not quite sure what to do.

"Get going, Jay."

It takes every ounce of willpower to call up a smile for my old friend.

"Joan is going to be worried about you if you're not home soon. Get out of here, Jay. You got a team to lead."
​

 

[wiegeabo]

Superman leaves in the blink of an eye. Besides Tony, only the old farts are left. Alan hovers in the air, not quite sure what to do.

"Get going, Jay."

It takes every ounce of willpower to call up a smile for my old friend.

"Joan is going to be worried about you if you're not home soon. Get out of here, Jay. You got a team to lead."
​

I wipe the blood and grime from my face. My wounds have already healed. The physical ones, at least. The pain is gone. In fact, I just feel numb.

I nod absently at Steve as I pick up Tony's boots. Seems fitting, in a way. And then I realize what he just said. "Me? Lead the team?" I shake my head, trying to be sure if I heard right. "I couldn't even save these people."

 

[Byrd Man]

I wipe the blood and grime from my face. My wounds have already healed. The physical ones, at least. The pain is gone. In fact, I just feel numb.

I nod absently at Steve as I pick up Tony's boots. Seems fitting, in a way. And then I realize what he just said. "Me? Lead the team?" I shake my head, trying to be sure if I heard right. "I couldn't even save these people."

"Neither could I. I'm supposed to be this great strategic mind, and yet I didn't have enough sense to move the fight out of a crowded area. Listen, in the face of this tragedy, the community will look towards you for answers. That's what happened after they thought I died. You, Alan, and Ted were there to pick up the pieces. I'm asking you to do that again. Whatever happens to Tony and I, it's up to you to pick the pieces back up and move forward."

The words sound good. But I'm not entirely sure I mean them. Maybe, after what happened today, the Justice League should just disband. We seem to do more harm than good, anyway.

 

[wiegeabo]

What's left of Tony's armor, Alan grabs in a bubble of energy. "C'mon, Jay. Steve's right. We need to get out of here and regroup. We handled this completely wrong, and if we have to face the consequences, then we will. But the team still needs a leader, and you're the best man for the job."

Two of my closest friends are telling me that I can do this. A Leader. And it's the absolute last thing I want to be right now.

"We'll meet-" I clear my throat. "We'll meet back up at the Brownstone in a couple of days. Once you two figure out what the President wants."

I try to think of something more to say, to do. But I've got nothing. Some leader I am.

"Alan, go home and hide Tony's armor. And you two...good luck."

I sigh and look at my friends again. And then I run off.

***

The door slams shut.

"Jay?" Joan comes around the corner. "JAY!"

She wraps her arms around me tightly, but I don't have the strength to return the hug. When she lets me go, I drop Tony's boots and slowly walk into the living room.

"Jay? Talk to me."

I sit on the sofa. Joan's been watching the news, and the reporters have already descended onto the scene.

"-it was horrible. That monster just fell from the sky. All those people-"

"-it was the Flash. He saved me. I'm so grateful-"

"-I wish the Flash had left me behind. At least then I'd be with my husband. Why did he save me? Why couldn't he save him?"

Joan shuts off the television. "Jay, it's not your fault."

For the first time since getting home, I look at Joan. My eyes feel like they're on fire, and my insides feel like they're being crushed.

"Oh, Jay..."

"I...couldn't...I couldn't-" I can't hold it in anymore. The tears flow and I break down completely. Joan wraps me in her arms.

"...wasn't fast enough..."

 

[Byrd Man]

What's left of Tony's armor, Alan grabs in a bubble of energy. "C'mon, Jay. Steve's right. We need to get out of here and regroup. We handled this completely wrong, and if we have to face the consequences, then we will. But the team still needs a leader, and you're the best man for the job."

Two of my closest friends are telling me that I can do this. A Leader. And it's the absolute last thing I want to be right now.

"We'll meet-" I clear my throat. "We'll meet back up at the Brownstone in a couple of days. Once you two figure out what the President wants."

I try to think of something more to say, to do. But I've got nothing. Some leader I am.

"Alan, go home and hide Tony's armor. And you two...good luck."

I sigh and look at my friends again. And then I run off.

With Jay and Alan gone, only Tony and I remain. The Justice League reduced to fleeing away like thieves in the middle of the night. Although, with what happened, who's to say we aren't criminals.

The helicarrier touches down and SHIELD agents begin to pile out.

"Well," I say as I turn to Tony. "The ban's striking up a tune. Time for us to face the music."

 

[Optikal]

​

Thesurveillance op actually consisted of him crouching on a rooftop, eavesdropping on a poker game. The game was being hosted by one Mishenka Kazakov. Kazakov was a lieutenant in one of New York City's various Russian crime syndicates, and hosted a bi-weekly poker game in one of his safe houses. Only his closest friends were invited. To Moon Knight it seemed like as good a place as any to gather intelligence, which is why he placed a small listening device in the 1200 square foot apartment two nights before.

Frenchie dropped him a half a mile away from the place, then returned to base. There was no sense in him staying, it was going to be a long night.
They had been playing for more than half an hour by the time he arrived and got set up. The first transmission nearly shattered his ear drum.

"Dimitri is so full of ****!"

"No, no. I swear to you. This mother****er goes there every Tuesday and Thursday, and delivers the package. Sometimes even on Saturdays!!"

There was riotous laughter.

"Screw you Dimitri. You talk to much."

Moon Knight wondered what the hell they were talking about. It wasn't the Russian they were speaking. He was fluent. He just needed more time to put the pieces together.

"It's not I who talks too much, but your little bomba."

Laughter all around.

His little bomb?

"Or perhaps I should say, your big bomba!"

There was even more laughter.

Big bomb? What the hell were they talking about?

Finally, there must've been someone new to the party, because Moon Knight heard him ask about the bomba.

It was Kazakov's husky voice that answered him. "They call her the big bomb, because if she got any bigger…she would explode!"

Everyone laughed again.

They call her the big bomb…

It was somebody's girlfriend.

That's what they had been talking about.

It really was going to be a long night.

 

[Optikal]

-WAR MACHINE-

​

Opal City.

"Kid, you just picked the wrong day to play this little game. Dead or alive, you're coming with me".

Bloodrage grinned at War Machine, cracking his knuckles. "I don't think so, chump!" With that, he launched himself at the armoured warrior.

CRACK!

A meaty fist connected with War Machines jaw, sending him reeling backwards. Before Rhodey could recover, he was hit twice more, the last strike removing him from his feet.

POWER LEVELS AT 83%

INTERNAL DIAGNOSTICS SECURING OPTIMAL CONFIGURATION

Rhodey growled to himself as the HUD flashed up layers upon layers of information. He'd been arrogant enough to take this guy lightly. Not anymore though.

CIVILIAN SAFETY PROTOCOLS IN EFFECT

WEAPONS ARMED.

As BloodRage advanced, Rhodeys shoulder mounted cannon rotated, fixing on the target. With a faint mechanical whir, the gun blazed into life, pounded round after round into the threat. As Rhodey made it to his feet, the gun adjusted it position, mainting the pressure on BloodRage.

"Alright pal" Rhodes grunted, "Let's see what you've really got!".

The cannon rotated to a halt as Rhodeys jets kicked in and propelled him forward into the villain. Both men slammed into the side of a nearby stationwagon, crashing through the metal and glass onto the sidewalk beyond. Rhodes knelt atop the downed opponent and levelled his wrist cannons at BloodRage. "It's over. I'm taking you in".

BloodRage spat a thick wad of blood out and grinned. "You think I'm done, tin man?! I've not even warmed up. See, I have this power..."

Rhodes screamed and fell back, it felt as though the life was literally being drawn out of him.

WARNING!! ORGANIC SYSTEMS UNDER ATTACK

TECHNICAL EMERGENCY BACK UP INITIATED

EVASIVE ACTION REQUIRED

POWER LEVELS AT 75%

"...When I get mad, it ain't my blood that boils..."

Rhodes screamed inside his armour as the life was leeched from him.

POWER LEVELS AT 42%

SYSTEM RUNNING EMERGENCY PROTOCOL ALPHA NINE TWO ZERO ZERO EPSILON

"...it's theirs!"

Rhodes noticed the he wasn't the only one writihng on the ground. All around him, police officers, civilians and the like all writhed in agony as BloodRage sapped their lifeforce.

"System. Convert all power to weapons. Concentrate everything we have on the target".

CONFIRMED.

REROUTING POWER.

Rhodes lifted himself to his knees. and raised his arms. Suddenly, every system he had onboard flared to life and assaulted BloodRage. The villian roared his pain and fell back under the barrage. Rhodes staggered to his feet. "There's one thing you didn't take into account..." he snarled, closing the distance as he blasted the villian backwards into the side of the building. His weapons roared at full effect as his HUD began to flicker.

POWER LEVELS AT 21%

TOTAL LIFE SUPPORT SHUTDOWN IN 4 MINUTES.

Rhodes ignored the warning and closed in on his target. "...I'm not all human. You can put me down, but you damn sure can't keep me down".

BloodRage was crushed into the wall, as Rhodes weapons finally relented his assaulted. A metal fist cracked into the jaw of BloodRage, rendering him unconcious.

Turning to the still recovering crowd, he dropped the still form of BloodRage in the street. "I'll leave you boys to finish the job".

With that, Rhodes took to the skies, setting a course for the orbital War Machine satellite.

 

[Byrd Man]

"Barbara..."

This looks like the end for me. Tied up in the warehouse with my ex-wife, the Joker has finally won. Both Barbara and I will be blown sky high by Joker's bombs. My life starts to flash before my eyes.

Four years old, scraping my knee after falling off my bike.

Graduating high school.

Meeting Barbara in Chicago.

Joining the force.

Being transferred to Gotham after standing up to corruption.

Barbara and Jim's births.


Meeting Batman

Being named Commissioner.

Harvey's scarring at Maroni's hands.

A whole lifetime, summed up a few seconds. I'm not ready to go.

"Barbara, can you hear me?"

I struggle with the rope holding me down. Batman's coming, I know that much. But I can't count on him getting here in time.

Come on, Jim. Time's wasting, get the hell out of here!
​