The "World of Heroes" DC RPG Season IX

[Batman]

Minutes Earlier...

Finding a secure vantage point, I take out my scope and watch as Bruce and Damian swing onto the roof of Wayne Enterprises, where the waiting crowd of the League's forces greet them. Even with my handle on the situation, looking out for any potential assassins waiting to flank the two, I can only smile to myself wondering one thing. How pissed off Ra's must be of the sight of his grandson decked out in a Robin suit. I almost consider zooming in just to catch the expression, but I've got orders. Look out for anything suspicious, find out how to deactivate the EMP, and hope to crap that Batman can keep the big man distracted long enough to allow me to do it. Piece of cake, no pressure at all.

I watch the surrounding buildings closely, looking for any of the tell-tale signs. Ra's isn't one to employ snipers, but considering he's been perfectly willing to change his tactics before, I can't rely on some half-baked psychological profile to tell me what's what. In the even that my theory actually is right, then the only thing he could have brought for an ambush that's as formidable as a sniper is a strike team. Suddenly, I switch to night-vision and do a quick scan of the skies. It'd make sense, The League has plenty of foreign military contracts - all stolen of course, but it gives them access to state-of-the-art choppers and para-unit copters. The lenses in my mask can pick up a faint trace of active cloaking, but I don't see anything here or on the way. Guess that means we're at a bust, as far as any ambush is concerned. Ra's must not have wanted to risk his pride and joy, otherwise Bruce would have already been up to his cowl in katana blades.

Yep, everything's as right as rain.

Now

"Dick, we need you down here as soon as possible. Things are getting hectic, to say the least."

Eyes wide as I drown Bruce's voice out of my ears, I lunge and roll under a fleet of Lady Shiva's shuriken, taking away a nasty little cut on my shoulder. Unfortunately, her arrival was definitely not apart of the plan. It's my own fault - should've seen it coming a mile away. Bruce trusted me to expect the unexpected and I let both him and myself down. "Gee, really?! I didn't notice!"

Shiva strikes me with a hard palm across the jaw. Which wouldn't ordinarily hurt as much as it did, but she's wearing some kind of steel brace on both sides of her hand, making it a tiny bit unbearable. Then she kicks me before I can even see it coming, slamming my head into the brunt of a solid brick ledge. My vision starts to fade, but I recover my senses just in time to roll out of the way of a giant sickle attached to a chain, which takes a chunk out of the wall behind me. Scrambling to my feet, I mock surrender.

"You know, the kids really hate it when we figh-... ARGH!"

She embeds a sai into my thigh and strikes me in three places, going up the side of my abdomen. All the while, never once breaking so much as a sweat, even in the ridiculously tight outfit she's wearing. This lady's serious trouble - I heard the stories as a kid about what she's done to men way more skilled than I'll ever be. Even Batman barely escaped some of his encounters with her. And she's chosen me for a one-on-one. I could be in better positions right now.

"Silence, young one. You are not to interfere with the master's ceremony. Only The Detective is allowed,"

By the time I've ripped the sai from my leg, she's struck me again across the face, using it to distract me long enough to reach into her belt for something. I try to regain my composure and fight back, even managing a poor kick in her direction, but she's produced it in her hand by the time I can even blink and realize what it is. A green powder - usually, and almost always, some sort of an airborne toxic substance. Got to get to my...

"And you are not The Detective."

The moment passes and I'm blinded by the cloud.

"Too late... too..."

I start to black out.

 

[MST3K 4ever]

Marvel continues to hover and then the Wisdom of Solomon shakes him out of his current despair.

Though the battle is over there is always the aftermath, and those who are in need.

With that Marvel descends back into the city and sees ambulances trying to get through blocked traffic.

Marvel then begins flying the ambulances to the hospitals.

After landing his fifth one the charge nurse comes out and says, "We appreciate what you're doing Captain Marvel, but right now there are more patients than doctors and we got people willing to come in, but they're also stuck in traffic."

Marvel replies, "Get the word out have them stand one theirs cars and wave me down. I'll get 'em here."

Marvel takes flight and begins to see people climbing out onto their cars and waving for him.

He then begins flying their cars to the Hospital as quickly as he can.

 

[Andy C.]

LUTHOR'S DEATH: THE AFTERMATH
QUESTIONS AND CONTROVERSY REGARDING THE DEATH OF FORMER PRESIDENT, SUSPECTED SUPER-CRIMINAL
By Clark Kent

Two weeks ago, in the wake of the wide-spread attack committed by the infamous Gorilla Grodd, the country was shocked by the sudden reappearance and equally sudden death of one of the most famous and infamous people in modern history: Alexander Joseph Luthor. Believed to have been killed two years ago in a confrontation with the robotic villain Brainiac, Luthor's survival had been suspected by many in the intelligence and metahuman communities. While those suspicions have been confirmed, his unexpected reemergence and demise have only raised more questions.

For most of his life, Luthor was known for both his incredible intellect and his ruthless business practices, the combination of which made him one of the richest and most influential men in the world. While he was publicly known as a philanthropist, years of secret projects and his very vocal hard-line stance against Superman and his fellow metahumans led many to suspect very sinister things going on behind LexCorp's doors. For every charitable donation or contribution Luthor made to the city, there were a dozen major crimes that many believed to be connected to him, ranging from money laundering to first-degree murder and attempted sedition. While never convicted, these allegations would follow him for years.

Despite the controversy that surrounded him at nearly all times, Luthor surprised everyone by announcing his candidacy for President, winning the election in a landslide victory. His Presidency, like most of his life, was marked by controversial decisions that sparked country-wide outrage, both in support and opposition of his views, particularly towards Superman and the Justice League. His term was cut short, however, when he resigned from office on live television, followed by a long period of seclusion, before returning to help the Justice League in their fight against Brainiac and his 'Dark Alliance.'

Even after his supposed death, Luthor's influence on Metropolis continued, as a powerful defense grid clearly designed by Luthor himself shielded the city from a planetary invasion during Superman's year-long absence. Whether this was put in place before his disappearance or after is still a subject of debate, as conspiracy theories have run rampant in regards to the motivations for faking his own death, his possible hand involved in the Dark Alliance, and his alleged influence behind the anti-Superman activist group KRYPTONITE. These theories, however, are purely speculation, with no evidence to back them up.

When Luthor returned to face Grodd, he inexplicably fell ill and was rushed to the hospital, where he demanded to speak with Superman. After the battle, Superman arrived, and during their conversation, Luthor died. Despite being examined by several medical and technological firms, the exact cause of death has yet to be determined. The fact that no one has been able to adequately explain just how or why he died is perhaps the final controversy in the life of a man who created it wherever he went.

Debates go on about whether or not the former President should be buried with full honors, as several protest groups cite the numerous crimes against humanity Luthor is suspected to have committed. However, since none of the long list of accusations has ever led to a conviction, his criminal record is still for all intents and purposes clean. His body is currently being examined by STAR Labs, and funeral procedures will be arranged as soon as his cause of death is confirmed.

*****

"Hard to believe, Smallville," Lois says as she reads the piece over my shoulder. "I mean, are we sure he's really dead this time?"

"I think so," I say with a sigh. "I looked over every cell in his body, every strand of DNA. No evidence of cybernetics, no traces of genetic abnormalities or accelerated growth. He wasn't a robot, or a clone, or another person in disguise. It was definitely Lex, and he definitely died. But there wasn't anything to show how or why."

There's another reason this frustrates us, one that both of us are too afraid to say out loud. Whatever killed Lex may very well be killing me, too.

I haven't told anyone about it.

In fact, I still haven't been completely honest with the League about how much my powers have grown after the fight with Darkseid.

I haven't told them that Lois is pregnant, either.

I've been accumulating too many big secrets, because I honestly don't know what to do with them. I don't know how the League would react, what they would do about Lois or our baby.

And if Lex was telling me the truth on his deathbed.....what I don't know could kill me.

"It never gets any easier, does it?" I ask, a sad grin on my face.

"You're more powerful than you've ever been, your worst enemy just kicked the bucket, and you're saying it's not getting easier?"

"Lex wasn't the only one--GCPD's trying to keep a lid on it, but rumor has it that the Joker was killed not too long ago. Jimmy's contacts in the old 'Newsboy Legion' confirmed that Hank Henshaw recently died as well. Darkseid is gone, Doomsday is gone, Zod is gone......"

I feel a cold chill when I think about it.

"....and soon I might be gone, too. All of these new developments have this sense of.....finality to it. Like my life is winding down, coming to a close."

"Don't say that, Clark," Lois says sternly. "Whatever Luthor did to you, you're going to beat it. You've still got a long future ahead of you, with me, with our baby."

The future.....

Lex said I would have to choose between two terrible futures: to choose between the world I protect and the people I love. Something's going to happen that will either kill my family or plunge the world into a dark age, and I have to decide which one will happen.

I don't know what it could be.

I don't know what decision I'll make.

I just.......don't know.

Despite all of the uncertainty, there's one decision I do make.

"It's time I tell the League," I say. "About everything. Maybe they'll be able to help."

As I get up, though, I hear an all-too-familiar noise: the hypersonic distress call from Jimmy's Super-Watch.

"Guess it'll have to wait, though," I say, I kissing my wife and unbuttoning my shirt as I head out.

"I need to get back to work."

​

 

[wiegeabo]

Brother Hymn of Blue Lantern Corps floated in front of the massive power battery, meditating. Before the coming of the Blackest Night, Brother Warth had chosen Brother Hymn to be the next Blue Lantern. And Brother Hymn, after completing his training, had selected Sister Sercy. And then the Blackest Night had arrived and Guardians Ganthet and Sayd had decided to send temporary blue rings to every sector to help in the battle.

Now, the latest crisis had passed, and the universe was slowly returning to it's former state. The temporary rings were disappearing, dissolving back into blue energy and merging with the central battery. Those most worthy or most in need were allowed to keep their rings longer than others. But Brother Hymn knew that Ganthet and Sayd would eventually take all the rings back, and the Corps would return to their method of selecting new Blue Lanterns. And now they had a whole host of candidates to choose from.

But that would be Sister Sercy's burden to carry. Selecting the next Lantern.

Brother Hymn was more than content to spend the day in peaceful silence, the only sounds being those of the falling waterfall and animals in the forest.

And then he felt it.

His forcefield was only a second ahead of certain death. The force from the blow sent him flying to the ground below, but Hymn was able to stop himself of colliding with the earth.

His attacker presses the advantage.

Brother Hymn may not have been a Lantern as long as either Brothers Warth or Walker, but he has been fully trained. He knows how to defend himself and how to fight. Unfortunately, without a green lantern nearby, doing either is a difficult proposition at best.

Hymn's forcefield does an admirable job of keeping him alive against the attacks being landed against him. And he maneuvers with grace and skill. But without the ability to truly fight back, it isn't much of a fight at all.

Knowing he's being overwhelmed, Brother Hymn tried to flee. Tries to make it to help, and warn the others of his Corps. He is even able to make it into orbit...until his attacker catches up with him before he can jump into hyperspace. A massive blast of energy disorients Brother Hymn, and a massive blow sends him hurtling back to the word below. But unlike the last time, he can't stop himself from slamming into the surface of Odym.

Brother Hymn crawls out of the crater, his ring's field flickering as the first whisps of doubt enter his mind. He squints his eyes as he tries to focus his vision, only to gaze upon his attacker standing over him. It's the last image he sees...

The blue ring immediately leaves Hymn's finger in an effort to return to the Guardians, but the attacker snatches it our of the air. He tries to control it, but it resists. Knowing that the red ring he captured would be useless, he binds the blue ring in his own energy and takes it with him. Once he learns its secrets, he'll be one step closer...

"I'm surprised the damned Guardians didn't chain you immediately. I would have."

"You would have killed me on sight."

"...and then chained up your corpse. What's your point?"

I cross my arms. "You're nothing if not consistent, Atrocitus."

"And you continue to enrage me with every breath you take."

"Truce, remember?"

"Only for the moment," Atrocitus hisses. We stare off for a few moments before he speaks again. "What next?"

"Next I go where you cannot follow. Although, I doubt things will go much easier for me..."

***

The world of Odym is a beautiful orb. An idyllic choice for Ganthet, even though the colors are wrong, of course. No planet stirs the blood quite like the sight of Korugar. But that is in my past. I only focus on the future.

I descend through the atmosphere, surprised that I have yet to be intercepted. It is a strange thing indeed. And even as I break through and fly under the clouds, there are still no blue lanterns confronting me. The blue central battery comes into view and I shake my head, finding it hard to believe that they would let a yellow ring so close to their-

Power level at 90%

Power level at 85%

Power level at 77%

I should have known.

"Blue Lanterns!" I shout, diving towards the ground before they completely drain my ring. "Blue Lanterns, listen to me! I come in peace!"

Several blasts of energy strike me, and I spiral down, slamming into the ground. Very good, I think in the back of my mind. You're actually using sound tactics for a change.

Power level at 52%

I put my hands up. "I come in peace. I only wish to talk with-" I'm struck by blue energy again. This is getting annoying, I think as I pick myself up off the ground.

Power level at 24%

I'm running out of time. I'll be at their mercy soon, and they're obviously not in the mood to talk. Although, there is one gambit I can try.

I pull my ring off my finger.

"Will you listen now?!" I shout.

Blue chains wrap around my body, pinning my arms down, and preventing me from moving at all. Out of the forests, the various members of the Blue Lantern Corps emerge, looking none to happy. And from above-

"Speak, Sinestro. And be forewarned to make your words count." Ganthet and Sayd descend from the sky. He maintains his chains around me while she takes my ring from my hand.

"I know I'm not one of your favorite people in the universe, but this reception seems a tad extreme."

"Seeing as how you're the one who killed Brother Hymn, I think we're being more than fair."

...This is going far worse than I expected.

 

[sumowrestler]

All You Need is Love-Chapter 3 (cont)​

As Miri and Carol Ferris-Jordan sat there in the closest, Miri tries to blast the metal gauntlet off but to no avail. A few minutes pass and the door opens. Both women look toward the door and see a guy in a tan jumpsuit with the word janitor across his left part of his chest just over his heart.

"I'm here to help you two out. I do work here but detest how the owner treats the women. I'm not overly proud of what the women do either but my sister and girlfriend had to have work to pay the bills. What makes me even sicker is finding out that this is basically a front for illegal activites. I've been making a file of evidence but too afraid of taking it to the police. If the owner finds out what I've done, then he will harm the women. Mr. P has a bad temper and rather enjoys abusing the women that work for him. If you can take him out and at least give some time for the women to escape and get to safety, then I'll take the evidence I have to the police. It may even be possible for those who are brave enough of the women for them to come forward and testify against Mr. P but he has to be behind bars. I'm hoping you two can take him down long enough for everything to happen like I want it to. Are you two willing to help me and the women here out?"

Both Miri and Carol shake their head yes. John, the janitor, uses oil based lubricant to break the magnetic bonds of the rounded gauntlets from the chairs. Once the arms were free, he uses the lubricant to very slowly remove the gauntlet from one of Miri's hands. It happen to be her ring hand. She then grabs a hold of the gag and gently removes it from her mouth.

"Thanks, sir. I can tell that you love your girlfriend very much even without this ring. You can now go while I free myself and my partner. It may be wise to gather what evidence you have and head towards the police station. We will take care of your boss."

John leaves the closet as Miri uses her ring to crystalize the chairs. With the magnetic field broken, both her and Carol gets up. Miri ungags Carol who then tells Miri to make a knife to cut open the gauntlets. It takes Miri a few tries to get the knife formed but once she does she releases Carol's ring hand. With both women completely free, they go and hunt down the new Dr. Polaris. As they take a few steps outside of the closet, they here a man screaming and see John being yelled by Dr. Polaris.

"What the world do you think you are doing with that can of lubricant? You aren't anywhere close to where you would need that. You aren't up to something, John, are you? Remember that I have both your sister and girlfriend as my 'favorite' dancers. I've been nice to them for your sake but if I find out you betrayed me, they will get the full treatment of my attention."

"I do believe, Dr. Polaris, that we should be more of your attention."

Before Dr. Polaris could do anything, Carol encases him in crystal. She then lifts him up and takes him outside. The women dancers sees this and gasps as they watch their boss being taken outside like a bag of trash. After Miri and Carol walk outside, the women regain their compsure for a second and then scream about freedom. The joy and celebration ends then the violet crystal goes flying from being shattered by Dr. Polaris.

"You think that construct would defeat me so easily? I didn't want to struggle while being inside of my place. The insurance company may have to wonder how big of a bar fight I had if we went at it in there. Now I'm free to do what I want. If you are wondering how I did that, I always have a very tight magnetic field around me and I simply expanded it. I've also got a few light poles out here to wrap around the two of you. Once I recapture you, I'll make sure that no man would want to two of you after I have my way with you."

Miri looking around realizes that the best way to help defeat this very sick and twisted man is to keep him away from metal. She then remembers that there is a wilderness only a couple miles outside of town. While Dr. Polaris continues to gloat, she makes a giant golf club and swings it at Dr. Polaris. He goes flying catching him unaware.

"You b----, you will pay for that."

Without saying a word, both Miri and Carol goes after the airborne. They watch as he lands against a tree and falls down onto the grass. He then very slowly gets back up to his feet.

"Be glad that protective shield is practically an unconscious thought. I detest golf since I can't really control the ball after I hit it even with a metalic golf club. Even if I don't have too much metal around, you two will surely pay for this."

This time Carol formed a buzz saw blade and sent it at Dr. Polaris.

"You think such a simple construct would defeat me. I laugh at your direction. You don't even come close to the Green Lantern."

He levitates just high enough to have the disc fly beneath his feet. Carol then brings the blade up behind him and into the tree. It cuts a large branch the thickness being of a normal human leg. The branch falls knocking Dr. Polaris back down to the ground and unconscious. The branch rolls off of him to his right side.

"He was all talk and no show. I guess he prefers the women who he can easily overpower. Hopefully our rescuer does take the evidence to the police. They might look at us funny if we drop him off at the station. It isn't like you or I are recognized as heroes. Too bad we didn't have a Green Lantern then it would be much easier."

"Don't worry, Miri, we could simply leave him at the station after we strip him of his clothing. Last Dr. Polaris that Green Lantern fought had most of abilities tied into his clothing. This one probably has something similar."

Miri looks supsciously at Carol as she approaches the unconscious man. She then proceeds to strip the cloths and takes them to Miri. Then she shows the tiny circuits in the clothing to Miri explaining that was the source of the guy's powers. After they get done, they take the barely clothed Dr. Polaris and his magnetic suit to the police with both being in a crystaline bag.

Later that evening, Carol and Miri head back to Carol's apartment.

"Thanks again for letting me stay here with your, Sapphire Ferris-Jordan. I've learned a lot of what love looks like but want to explore other cities of this planet and see what else I can learn especially about love."

"Any time you are back in town, please look up Hal and myself. We get all sorts of visitors and usually it is Kyle, Stewart, and Gardner even though Gardner might be dealing with his white ring still. As much entertainment it was to have Gardner as a Sapphire, I think he belongs to the GLC if he can keep his cool."

Miri flies off once again but this time away from Coast City. She heads out east away from the sunset.

 

[trustyside-kick]

OOC: Previously...

Hy-Brasil
Atlantis

The dark and extremely dangerous city of Hy-Brasil is one of the original Lost Cities of Atlantis. Many years ago Aquaman first ventured into the location in one of the deepest parts of the ocean and but a few years ago he returned yet again to unite the cities under 1 banner. When Garth was handed the throne, the denizens of Hy-Brasil remained loyal. However when Garth had revealed his Atlantica Proposal, as was their choice they removed themselves from the 3 cities that ended up joining together to become what is known as the Atlantica Region. The type of union and relations that Garth had wanted to spread to all the Altantean cities with the surface world United States Government were just not of their interest. They chose to retain all of their culture and political ways.

And one of their customs is that one Hy-Brasilian, out of the entire lot, is to prove himself battle worthy to defend the city as its champion and the Queen's King. Forever until the end of their days are they to guard the entrance to the city and protect its denizens from the would-be potential invaders that dare cross their waters.

That chosen protector left this plane of existence about an hour ago, and since then The Fisherman has ravaged through the city of Hy-Brasil without mercy. Killing all that oppose him, what he seeks is somewhere within the limits of the city.

None shall stop him from advancing in his quest to please his Masters of Olde. So long as the xenoform is in control, as it finally has been for the first time since it was sent to this planet, The Fisherman will search high and low. As he advances through the city to the Queen's Palace, entering her throne room, The Fisherman spots what it is he desires so dearly.

"You've made quite the ruckus, coming into my waters. I admire such forte and ferocity, what is it you have come for?"

"That which is owed to me. To my masters. I willhave it. And I see it now. Step aside or parish before my blade."

The Queen of Hy-Brasil looks at what the Fisherman is pointing at with his sword and smirks as she gets up from her throne. She walks up to the Fisherman, in a seducing way and lays her hands upon his chest, looking up at him.

"The only one to ever dispatch a Guardian of Hy-Brasil was the former Sea King Orin...yet you managed you not only kill his replacement but many of my guards and people along the way. I...love to bear witness to such power. And you do have quite the amount of power."

"You waste your time. Step aside or I kill you now where you stand."

"You wish the Golden Eel, yes? For your masters, you say? You know of the power...don't you? Why not keep it for yourself? Forget your masters...I'm now in need of a new lover to safeguard this place and be my King. I will give you that which you seek freely if you become my--"

"ENOUGH!!"

Pushing the Queen of Hy-Brasil away, The Fisherman backhands her knocking her into the wall. Retrieving the item, and holding it in his hands, the Fisherman rejoices.

"O masters! O Gods from outside! I have done what you set me to!"

"I sought so long, slept so deep...but I found it. I found it."

The Fisherman starts to laugh, as it would seem that half of his task is over. But as he revels in victory, the wounded Queen of Hy-Brasil basks in his stupidity as she too begins to laugh. She stands up, wiping the blood from her mouth, and elegantly walks over to her throne which the Golden Eel's pedestal lay next to. She takes her seat proudly and confidently, with the confused villain turning his attention over to her.

"Hahaha. My dear, what you have found is merely 1 of many. There are seven of these idols spread out all across the waters of Atlantis. Or at least goes the legend."

Not wasting any time, The Fisherman draws his sword raising it to the Queen's throat as he demands for more information about the apparently Seven Golden Eels of Atlantis.

"What else do you know of it, woman? Tell me and I shall consider sparing the life of you and the rest of your wretched people."

"I--I...simply know that...there are supposed to be seven in total, each granting its user with a different uncanny ability. W--when united, they are supposed to be the gateway or...key to something. Mere le-le-legend...of course. I've only seen this one Golden Eel in all my life...I swear."

Believing the now finally frightened Queen of Hy-Brasil, The Fisherman holsters his sword. He takes out a fishing hook from one of his pouches and dangles it in front of her face for one final threat before he departs.

"Should I learn that you led me on a wild chase when I have already been on this one for so many years...I will gut you using this. It will be slow. It will be painful...and it will be more than enjoyable for me personally. Now...in what waters does the legend suggest the rest could perhaps remain?"

 

[Byrd Man]

A League footsoldier rushes towards me. I crouch down into a defensive stance and prepare for what he has.

"Pardon me, Father," Damian says as he runs from behind me, jumps, and launches himself off my back and on to the League ninja. Damian grabs the man by the neck and puts his weight on the man's neck. He falls forward and my son slams his face into the rooftop before handspringing up on his feet. The ninja starts to pull himself up before Damian slams his foot into the back of the man's head, smashing his face back into the rooftop and knocking him out

"These are the best the old man has to offer? -tt-"

Damian springs away to fight someone else. Off to the right, Talia and Ra's struggle against each other while a League underling prepares to detonate Ra's EMP device. I toss a batarang at the ninja and drop him to the ground.

Ubu charges me, I sigh and step back as he swings at me. I grab his elbow, twist it behind his back and kick his legs out from under him. He falls to the ground and I charges towards Talia and Ra's.

"You will not take my son!"

Talia swings at Ra's with her right leg. He counters and tries to land a backhand when I step in, grabbing his arm and pushing him away.

"Give it up, Ra's, you can't beat both Talia and I."

"Maybe not, Detective. But I can eve the playing field."

That's when I feel the powerful hands wrap around my neck. Ubu jerks me off my feet and slams me into the rooftop. His massive hands tighten around my neck and his knee buries itself into my chest.
​

 

[wiegeabo]

"I'm surprised the damned Guardians didn't chain you immediately. I would have."

"You would have killed me on sight."

"...and then chained up your corpse. What's your point?"

I cross my arms. "You're nothing if not consistent, Atrocitus."

"And you continue to enrage me with every breath you take."

"Truce, remember?"

"Only for the moment," Atrocitus hisses. We stare off for a few moments before he speaks again. "What next?"

"Next I go where you cannot follow. Although, I doubt things will go much easier for me..."

***

The world of Odym is a beautiful orb. An idyllic choice for Ganthet, even though the colors are wrong, of course. No planet stirs the blood quite like the sight of Korugar. But that is in my past. I only focus on the future.

I descend through the atmosphere, surprised that I have yet to be intercepted. It is a strange thing indeed. And even as I break through and fly under the clouds, there are still no blue lanterns confronting me. The blue central battery comes into view and I shake my head, finding it hard to believe that they would let a yellow ring so close to their-

Power level at 90%

Power level at 85%

Power level at 77%

I should have known.

"Blue Lanterns!" I shout, diving towards the ground before they completely drain my ring. "Blue Lanterns, listen to me! I come in peace!"

Several blasts of energy strike me, and I spiral down, slamming into the ground. Very good, I think in the back of my mind. You're actually using sound tactics for a change.

Power level at 52%

I put my hands up. "I come in peace. I only wish to talk with-" I'm struck by blue energy again. This is getting annoying, I think as I pick myself up off the ground.

Power level at 24%

I'm running out of time. I'll be at their mercy soon, and they're obviously not in the mood to talk. Although, there is one gambit I can try.

I pull my ring off my finger.

"Will you listen now?!" I shout.

Blue chains wrap around my body, pinning my arms down, and preventing me from moving at all. Out of the forests, the various members of the Blue Lantern Corps emerge, looking none to happy. And from above-

"Speak, Sinestro. And be forewarned to make your words count." Ganthet and Sayd descend from the sky. He maintains his chains around me while she takes my ring from my hand.

"I know I'm not one of your favorite people in the universe, but this reception seems a tad extreme."

"Seeing as how you're the one who killed Brother Hymn, I think we're being more than fair."

...This is going far worse than I expected.

"I suppose you won't believe me when I say I had nothing to do with you're fellow Lantern's death?"

"We just found his body, and you're here," Sayd says.

"I just arrived!"

"Do you expect us to believe you just have horrible timing," Ganthet replies.

I shrug. "Apparently I do."

They look at each other. I glance at the Blue Lanterns, and there's revenge in their eyes. It's rather an unsettling thing to see for a group that is usually so committed to hopefulness.

I sigh. "Will you at least allow me to explain myself?"

"Yes, explain why you killed Brother Hymn!" the larger Lantern demands.

"Not what I meant. Nice try though."

Ganthet stares at me. I notice Sayd examining my ring, scanning it with blue energy. "Good luck with that. Plenty of security measures."

"Explain your presence here," Ganthet says, crossing his arms behind his back.

"Someone is killing Lanterns-"

"Obviously!"

I ignore the outburst. "-so, I am bringing an offer of truce to each Corps and am putting together a team to find and stop them."

"What kind of team?"

"A representative from each color of the spectrum. Myself, Atrocitus-"

"-Atrocitus?!"

"-if I could be allowed to finish?" I glare at each of them. They say nothing. "Myself, Atrocitus, and a representative of the Green Lanterns."

"Which Green Lantern?" Sayd asks.

"I do not know. I was supposed to meet them at Qward after gathering the other representative. But, if this is the reception I can expect, I think the next order of business will be to meet them now."

"You assume we will let you leave?" another Lantern says.

"I assume one of you will come along. There are still three other Corps to meet with, and it will be easier if we are all together."

Sayd floats next to Ganthet. "What do you think?"

"It may be worth investigating."

"And if we send one of our own, they can ensure his ring remains minimally powered."

They ponder their choice for a few seconds. I patiently wait, knowing what their decision will be.

"We will send a representative with you to Qward. If a Green Lantern is there, consider a true between our Corps to be in effect. And they will join you on your quest."

I nod. "Very well. So...who is coming with me?"

 

[MST3K 4ever]

​

Marvel continues flying doctors and ambulances to the Gotham General E-R.

After safely landing an ambulance in the bay the charge nurse Evie Saunders approaches Marvel.

She says, "Captain Marvel we really appreciate what you're doing right now, but we're at capacity we're gonna have to implement our Mass Casualty protocols. Meaning we need to start setting up triage centers in the city."

Marvel asks, "What can I do to help?"

Evie smiles and says, "You have no idea how sweet it is to hear you say that!"

She pulls out a map with various locations marked on them and says, "The National Guard needs to get it's personnel and equipment into the city but again the traffic situation is what's keeping them from getting here."

Marvel replies, "Basically fly them into these locations and help them out where I can."

Evie says, "You got it Captain!"

Marvel takes the map and studies it. He gives it back to Evie and says, "I'm on my way get word to them to be ready for me."

Evie replies, "Will do Captain oh I thought you might want this."

She hands Marvel Harvey Bullock's badge.

Marvel looks at it for a moment and pins it to his tunic. He nods at Evie and takes flight.

As he approaches the first truck he looks at the badge.

This is for you Harvey!

With that he scoops up the truck and flies it to it's destination.

 

[wiegeabo]

"I suppose you won't believe me when I say I had nothing to do with you're fellow Lantern's death?"

"We just found his body, and you're here," Sayd says.

"I just arrived!"

"Do you expect us to believe you just have horrible timing," Ganthet replies.

I shrug. "Apparently I do."

They look at each other. I glance at the Blue Lanterns, and there's revenge in their eyes. It's rather an unsettling thing to see for a group that is usually so committed to hopefulness.

I sigh. "Will you at least allow me to explain myself?"

"Yes, explain why you killed Brother Hymn!" the larger Lantern demands.

"Not what I meant. Nice try though."

Ganthet stares at me. I notice Sayd examining my ring, scanning it with blue energy. "Good luck with that. Plenty of security measures."

"Explain your presence here," Ganthet says, crossing his arms behind his back.

"Someone is killing Lanterns-"

"Obviously!"

I ignore the outburst. "-so, I am bringing an offer of truce to each Corps and am putting together a team to find and stop them."

"What kind of team?"

"A representative from each color of the spectrum. Myself, Atrocitus-"

"-Atrocitus?!"

"-if I could be allowed to finish?" I glare at each of them. They say nothing. "Myself, Atrocitus, and a representative of the Green Lanterns."

"Which Green Lantern?" Sayd asks.

"I do not know. I was supposed to meet them at Qward after gathering the other representative. But, if this is the reception I can expect, I think the next order of business will be to meet them now."

"You assume we will let you leave?" another Lantern says.

"I assume one of you will come along. There are still three other Corps to meet with, and it will be easier if we are all together."

Sayd floats next to Ganthet. "What do you think?"

"It may be worth investigating."

"And if we send one of our own, they can ensure his ring remains minimally powered."

They ponder their choice for a few seconds. I patiently wait, knowing what their decision will be.

"We will send a representative with you to Qward. If a Green Lantern is there, consider a true between our Corps to be in effect. And they will join you on your quest."

I nod. "Very well. So...who is coming with me?"

"I shall volunteer."

"Ah, Saint Walker is it?"

He ignores me to focus on the Guardians. "I fought alongside Sinestro against the Black Lantern rising."

"Which was shortly after he betrayed the Green Lanterns for a second time."

"You call it betrayal, I call it trying to save the universe. Might have been able to avoid the entire Black Lantern mess...but that is neither here nor there now."

"You will join his quest?"

"To get justice for Brother Hymn, and protect other Lanterns...yes, I will."

"Then let's not keep the other Lanterns waiting. So...if you'll just return my ring...and unchain me..."

 

[Batman]

"N-Not... going down."

Despite the pain, despite my injuries - hell, despite having particles of a poisonous concoction hit me straight in the face - I'm pushing through all of it enough to throw a heelkick right into Shiva's pompous looking face. She stammers a bit backwards, giving me the leeway to dodge her next attack before it can take out another one of my ribs. There's a vial of a multi-purpose anti-toxin that Tim invented in the cave a few years back that I still carry in my gauntlet. If I can reach it in time, I can beat this before it reaches my nervous system. I just have to work through the enormously ridiculous task of staying alive in the presence of one of the most skilled assassins in the world to do it. Popping open the compartment, I grab the vial with my teeth and rip out a pair of smoke capsules, tossing them towards Shiva as she vaults forth on the attack.

I don't even see it because she's going so fast, but I can hear the sounds of metal ripping through metal as she slices through the projectiles like they were paper before the black powder inside can ignite and create the cloud. Shiva's not just trained at this, she's pretty much mastered the art of combat in itself. And she's coming right at me with a blade that's about to have alot more of my own blood on it.

Stuffing the vial between my gum line with my tongue, I weakly manage another backflip as she slices down at concrete, leaving sparks flying as she parries against one of my gauntlets. Even with my strength zapped, I try the best that I can to hold the sword down. She simply smirks back at me like she's amused.

"Impressive, young one. I can see why The Detective prizes you as his most adept squire."

Leaving me no time to react, she drives her knee into my chest and tries to force me to break grip. I only barely disappoint her, holding back the blade just inches above my neck. If she can manage to press it down just a little more, I'm about to spend the rest of my life in bed with a feeding tube.

"Well... you know. Always... hate to... disappoint."

This isn't working. Whether it's Shiva's perserverance or the toxin going to work on my cerebral cortex, I'm beginning to lose my focus. My vision's blurring again, ears are starting to ring, and my other senses are burning. And even still, the blade's coming at me even closer. I can tell that I've got only a couple more seconds left, and the odds are far from in my favor. I'm about to die and there's nothing I could do but make a couple of bad puns about it. Bruce is gonna have to disable the device himself, if Ra's hasn't killed him and taken Damian's soul already. Sorry, Barbara. Guess I'm not gonna make it down the aisle with you after all.

And then...

And then the blade's gone.

Through either a little bit or luck or some divine intervention, the sword is knocked clean out of Shiva's grasp. I watch it fly out of reach and fall over the ledge of the rooftop, giving me the proper advantage. A freshly tossed batarang embeds itself into the concrete. I smile wide to myself, realizing that I've been given a second chance. Bruce must have got to me before Shiva could deliver the killing blow. I swear, that man avoids close calls like I avoid Roy's taunts about my pixie-...

"No! It's not possible!"

"-tt- Not even a challenge. Let him go and surrender, she-witch."

What the hell?!

Both of us turn to the small figure that's joined us, in clear shock of who just managed to save my butt. In my current state, I can only see a blur of red and green hit at Shiva like a rocket, but it's enough to tell me what I'm looking at. For a moment, I can only stare in disbelief at Damian... hell, not even that. As Robin takes Shiva on like she was a rank amateur, striking at her abdominal muscles and delivering a hard spinkick across her jaw. Usually it wouldn't make sense, but I guess Damian's age and height give him a bit of an edge when it comes to combat. It's like Shiva is Dooku and he's Yoda - you can't fight him so easily, because he's so small that he's everywhere.

"D-... Damian..."

Leaping up onto her face, Damian starts beating the tar out of her as he locks his legs around her neck. She struggles to get him off, but he's the one winning this fight. Through his attacks, he turns to me and starts barking orders. Like father like son, I guess.

"Grayson, stop acting incompetent and help my father! Before we all get killed thanks to you!"

Still weary, I nonetheless give him a smirk and spit out the vial of anti-venom. Popping the top, I swallow it and let it do it's work. It takes about a minute, but I'm feeling pretty much like my old self in no time. Robin vaults off of Shiva and starts blocking her attacks with precision, putting that League of Shadows training to good use.

"Thanks for the save, kid. I owe you one."

"I'm painfully aware of that."

Firing a grapnel at the looming tower of Wayne Enterprises, I swing off and following Damian's instructions. The fact that I'm even doing so is something I'm just gonna credit my current delirium-induced state of mind, nevermind the fact that I'm allowing him to take on a world class assassin like Shiva by himself. Barbara's going to give me an earful about the cuts, but it was worth it just for the story. The day I got saved by the midget Robin from hell. Bruce chose his new partner wisely.

By the time I arrive, Batman and Talia are already holding Ra's off. Leaving the EMP machine in the distance, being guarded by a couple of League of Shadows alumni. I toss batarangs at them and head in, narrowly avoiding Ra's blade as it swings at me in recognition. He knows my part in this, and he's trying his damnedest to make sure I don't pull it off. Luckily, I kick him back and avoid his retaliation, leaving Bruce to finish him off.

"Sorry, gramps, but I've got no time to tango. Maybe next round."

With that, I begin to engage his ninjas, coming closer to the EMP machine with each strike.

Whoever said what we do is boring?

 

[trustyside-kick]

"I sought so long, slept so deep...but I found it. I found it."

The Fisherman starts to laugh, as it would seem that half of his task is over. But as he revels in victory, the wounded Queen of Hy-Brasil basks in his stupidity as she too begins to laugh. She stands up, wiping the blood from her mouth, and elegantly walks over to her throne which the Golden Eel's pedestal lay next to. She takes her seat proudly and confidently, with the confused villain turning his attention over to her.

"Hahaha. My dear, what you have found is merely 1 of many. There are seven of these idols spread out all across the waters of Atlantis. Or at least goes the legend."

Not wasting any time, The Fisherman draws his sword raising it to the Queen's throat as he demands for more information about the apparently Seven Golden Eels of Atlantis.

"What else do you know of it, woman? Tell me and I shall consider sparing the life of you and the rest of your wretched people."

"I--I...simply know that...there are supposed to be seven in total, each granting its user with a different uncanny ability. W--when united, they are supposed to be the gateway or...key to something. Mere le-le-legend...of course. I've only seen this one Golden Eel in all my life...I swear."

Believing the now finally frightened Queen of Hy-Brasil, The Fisherman holsters his sword. He takes out a fishing hook from one of his pouches and dangles it in front of her face for one final threat before he departs.

"Should I learn that you led me on a wild chase when I have already been on this one for so many years...I will gut you using this. It will be slow. It will be painful...and it will be more than enjoyable for me personally. Now...in what waters does the legend suggest the rest could perhaps remain?"

Poseidonis, Atlantica
The Royal Courtyard

As Vulko swims with Garth through the city, discussing recent Atlantean developments in their plans for the year, the two are approached by one of the guards.

"Dak, what are you doing leaving your post. The shifts do not change until--"

"I'm sorry to interrupt, Lord Vulko, but we just received word from Hy-Brasil. There was an attack on the city. I know that they had succeeded from our Kingdom when Atlantica was founded but they are still allies of the greater Atlantis."

"What sort of attack, Dak?"

"They said it was a man...at least it looked like a surface dweller. But he was wearing what looked like some sort of crustacean work of armor and he wielded dark powers of unknown origin. He tore through the kingdom a one-man army. Oh, and a yellow helmet shaped like this."

With his two hands, index fingers joined and then separated as he 'drew' the shape of the helmet in the water around his head, Garth looks at the guard with a look of confusion. Not because he cannot tell what the helmet somewhat looks like, but because he can.

And The Fisherman was never that powerful.

"Crustacean looking armor?"

"Aye."

Which causes the young King of Atlantica to dive deeper into his memories. The list of villains that had crossed Garth's past during and after the days of Aquaman and Aqualad was long and each of different calibers in terms of threat and strength so there are some who could have done such an incredibly feat but...no other in his mind seemed to match the vague description that the Atlantean guard before him speaks of. The Fisherman was never this powerful though.

Powerful enough to give Aquaman a hard time with his death traps and other deadly gadgets, sure, but...only until Aquaman easily faced the villain face to face and when it came down to that it was a sure win. The protective armor he wore allowed him to absorb a few blows here and there from Aquaman but he was never strong enough to do what the guard explains had happened in Hy-Brasil.

"Plus there was some mention of a...Golden Eel that was taken from the Palace."

"Golden Eel?"

"Yes. Nothing else was taken, say for the lives the monster took with glee."

"Vulko, do you know anything about a Golden Eel?"

"Afraid I do not, my King."

"I hate to do this but send word to Orin. He has been residing in the waters around the Old Lighthouse in Maine lately per his vacation with Mera. I do not see how who I think could be behind this could be behind this but...what haven't we seen that didn't make sense in our lifetimes?"

 

[Carnage27]

As I float in the space above Qward waiting for Sinestro, my attention is drawn to another sector of space, where a red star seems to be approaching at a rapid pace. As it grows closer, I quickly realize that it's no star or comet. It's a Red Lantern.

"Rayner..." the Lantern seethes as his red glow subsides, revealing Atrocitus. "Of course it had to be you."

"Relax Atrocitus, we're here to work together, not fight," I respond sternly. Like that's actually going to happen here. Getting Lanterns to work together is like mixing oil and water. And Atrocitus is one of the worst. He'll stop at nothing to destroy the Guardians.

"Yes, I know. No need to lecture me," he snarls. "Where is our gracious host and leader? I hope he's not playing us for fools. If he is I'll rip his head off."

He brings up a good point. I've been waiting here for quite a while, and there's no sign of Sinestro. If this is a trap, I'd hate to think what it's going to turn in to. Atrocitus will be on his own side, and I can't fight of Sinestro and him at the same time...

 

[wiegeabo]

Power levels 10%

"I wish you would stop crippling my ring, Walker."

"I would think it obvious why I am," he replies. "You have enough power for the jouney to Qward."

"Yes, I'm aware of that. But if I need the full power of my ring, if we are attacked, for example..."

"Do you expect us to be attacked?"

"I always expect an attack. It's how I stay alive."

"That philosophy didn't seem to serve you well on Odym."

I just stop dead in space. Walker continues on for a second before realizing what's happened, and flies back towards me.

"If we are going to work as a team, you are going to have to trust me."

"But I do not trust you."

"So much for having hope." Walker obviously does not appreciate my statement. "Your Guardians have trusted me thus far." I cross my arms and wait for Walker to think things through.

It takes Walker several moments to consider this. He sighs slightly. "Very well."

Nodding my head, I open the pocket dimension and remover my battery.

"In Blackest Day,
in Brightest Night,
Beware your fears
made into light.
Let those who try to stop what's right,
burn like my power Sinestro's Might."

Power levels 100%

I place my battery back into it's safe place.

"Your oath does not instill me with much confidence."

"It's not meant to."

It does not take us much longer to reach Qward. I had ordered my Corps away previously. No need to stress a truce that only your side has invoked. And upon reaching orbit, my ring indicates the colors green and red residing on the surface.

"Well, this should prove interesting..."

 

[sumowrestler]

All You Need is Love-Chapter 4
​

Miri flies across the United States and lands in a town called Star City. She looks around and sees a young man running away from a woman screaming at him. It takes only a second for Miri to realize that the young man was what Carol would call a purse snatcher. Miri creates a 10ft tall wall right in front of the young man who smashes into it a second later. He falls on his back unconscious. The woman comes up to Miri thanking her.

"No need to thank me, it is hard to spread love when you lose something important to you like your hand bag. If people would spread love instead of fear and greed, things would be much better in this world."

As the woman continues to shake Miri's hand to Miri's surprise, a couple of officers come up and pick up the unconscious young man.

"Thank you, miss, this juvenile been running around causing trouble ever since he got out of juvie hall. We can only keep track of so many criminals even though this one been on our survelliance for a while. He isn't known as The Snatcher for any good reason."

"I would think that crime would be down if you showed love to the criminals and teach them that if they would love instead of following greed and fear that they would be more productive in society."​

 

[MST3K 4ever]

Marvel finishes setting up the last of the Triage centers in Gotham.

One of the officers asks, "Excuse me Captain Marvel?"

Marvel turns and replies, "Yes officer what can I do for you?"

The Officer says, "We just got a report that there's a gang taking advantage of the current situation in the Narrows. The Mayor is considering declaring it a No Man's Land and cutting it off from the city to teach them a lesson. We were worried that it would reflect badly not only on us but Gordon has worked so hard to bring order to that area and it's no secret the Mayor would love to see Gordon taken down a peg or two. Could you..."

Marvel with steely resolve says, "Say no more."

Marvel takes flight to the narrows and just before reaching the narrows he sees a National Guard unit setting up a barracde around the bridge leading in and out of the Narrows.

Marvel lands and approaches the commanding officer who is yelling, "Get the barracade on line and then the electronic fence around the area! I want it all ready in two minutes!"

Marvel says, "Excuse me Major."

The Major turns and says, "Captain Marvel never thought I'd see you here."

Marvel says, "I was hoping I wouldn't have to be here but it appears my pressence is needed."

The Major replies, "Captain Marvel by order of the Mayor no one goes in no goes out. The Narrows is now off limits!"

Captain Marvel says, "But they'll tear themselves apart Major! They're human beings Major not animals!"

The Major says, "I can't argue with you Captain, and I agree with you the Mayor is taking advantage of this and it's wrong on every level. But I have my orders."

A Warrant Officer approaches the Major and says, "Sir we're ready."

The Major nods and says, "Very well cut the fence on in 60 seconds. Give the order no one in no one out. Shoot on sight and shoot to kill."

The Major turns to go but he turns back to Marvel and says, "If you were to go in there and settle things down. I couldn't stop you but you'd have no back-up or any help you'd be on your own and you got about 20 seconds to get in there."

Marvel takes flight and makes it in before the fence is activated.

 

[sumowrestler]

Saint Walker sees two individuals on Qward, both very familiar to him.

"Green Lantern Rayner, Red Lantern Atrocitus, it is nice to see you again. I'm glad that you haven't tried to tear each other's heads off. Where are the other representatives? I hope we can find whoever is doing this random killing and that it isn't anyone of our respective Corps. I know it isn't any of the Blue Lanterns and would be surprised if it is a Green Lantern even though they've been known to go rogue."

At this time, Rayner's ring starts charging slowly up to 200% Saint Walker's ring brightens up a bit as well.

 

[Byrd Man]

By the time I arrive, Batman and Talia are already holding Ra's off. Leaving the EMP machine in the distance, being guarded by a couple of League of Shadows alumni. I toss batarangs at them and head in, narrowly avoiding Ra's blade as it swings at me in recognition. He knows my part in this, and he's trying his damnedest to make sure I don't pull it off. Luckily, I kick him back and avoid his retaliation, leaving Bruce to finish him off.

"Sorry, gramps, but I've got no time to tango. Maybe next round."

With that, I begin to engage his ninjas, coming closer to the EMP machine with each strike.

Whoever said what we do is boring?

"No!"

"Yes."

Ra's attention on Dick gives me an opportunity, I come in hard and grab his wrist, twisting it until he loses his grip on the sword and it clatters on the roof. He recoils in pain and Talia lays into him with her boot. Ra's stumbles back and growls.

"I will not lose! I will not lose the boy!"

"He's not yours to lose, Father. He's our son."

"The only reason I allowed that whelp to even be born is because he was supposed to be my vessel, he was supposed to willingly accept his destiny and become me."

"There's one problem with that, old man."

Damian swings on to the roof and hand springs into Ra's, roundhouse kicking him in the face.

"I'm better than you could ever be."

Ra's stumbles back and teeters off the roof.

"No!"

I rush across the rooftop and prepare to leap off, but stop short at the edge of the roof.

Ra's is nowhere to be seen, only a chopper rising up into the sky. It rushes up from the street and rises into the sky rapidly.

"He's getting away."

"Let him."

I turn to Damian and nod.

"You have the one thing he cares about the most. All the senior League members are here in Gotham. He doesn't have anyone out there who would hide him. Give the order, Talia. Call the League off."

"But Damian-"

"It can wait. The city comes first. Call them off."

Talia looks at me, then Damian and waits a moment before finally nodding.

"Very well."
She walks away just as Dick walks up.

"Ra's got away, but Talia is pulling the League back. Damian is safe. I assume the bomb has been disabled?"

 

[Batman]

Talia looks at me, then Damian and waits a moment before finally nodding.

"Very well."
She walks away just as Dick walks up.

"Ra's got away, but Talia is pulling the League back. Damian is safe. I assume the bomb has been disabled?"

"You even have to ask?"

Ra's forces are dangerous, but they're hardly adept at tech wizardry. Didn't expect it to take more than a pair of pliers and a couple of hail mary's to get the thing demobilized. Luckily, I always adhere to the one rule about disarming a bomb - when in doubt, go with the green wire. I pull the very coil that I cut from the circuit and produce it in the palm of my hand, giving Bruce a sly grin. On the scale of victories, it's League of Assassins, 0. Team Batman, too many to count.

"And he would've gotten away with it, too. If it weren't for us meddling kids."

Damian scoffs at the reference. He's about the only ten year old I've ever encountered that would put down anything from Scooby Doo. I don't know whether that's a good thing, or... just scary.

"The old man flees like a girl. He'll be back."

I look out at Gotham, knowing how lucky we were this time as the lights begin to flicker back to life. Power's coming back to the city, and not a moment too soon.

"Maybe, but your dad isn't about to let him pull a stunt like that again. At six thousand years, your grandfather's beyond the point of senile."

For a moment, I can swear I see Damian smile. Then he quickly changes face and crosses his arms, acting all pouty again. Heh, like father, like son.

"-tt-."

I place a hand on Bruce's shoulder as he looks out at the city aswell, content enough to breathe a sigh of relief.

"What now, boss? Think Talia can round up her troops faster than we can?"

 

[MST3K 4ever]

Marvel begins working his way through the Narrows and notices the group making trouble is the Golden Dragons a local street gang, and Marvel is puzzled by all of this.

This doesn't make any sense. For thugs to be this well organized and not to mention with weapons that are clearly not within their price range. The Mayor to be involved directly too risky even for him.

A couple of thugs take shots at Marvel that he evades with little effort.

Well if I want to know the answers it's time to ask the right people.

Marvel swoops down and notices one just standing of to the back just watching. Marvel smiles for a moment.

I'll bet he's the leader of the pack. Watch the pawns do the work and stand back and admire one's handy work.

He grabs the leader by an ankle and says, "Let's talk!"

Marvel begins climbing higher and higher to the top of the Electronic Fence and holds the now screaming thug upside down and very close to it.

Marvel says, "Now the voltage in this fence is not bad enough to kill you, but it will hurt a lot, and it will hurt me as well which means I could drop you."

The thug asks, "What do you want to know?"

Marvel replies, "Everything! Who hired you and why? Tell me what I want to know and I'll let walk away!"

The thug says, "We got the weapons first and we were told we'd get paid once the Narrows was reduced to rubble! The instructions came through e-mail!"

Marvel notices the leader with his eyes closed and mumbling a prayer.

He says, "I believe you, and I'll bet your benefactor is here. He or she would want to make sure that the job is done right."

Marvel scans the city quickly and sees the tallest apartment building is unscathed.

He says, "I think I know where to look next. Get your gang together and meet at that apartment building over there. Figure out what room I'm in and be outside the front door. If you're not there in the next 5 minutes. I assure you I will find all of you and keep in mind I know Batman personally!"

He sets the leader back on the ground and speeds off to the Apartment Building.

Now which room is this person in? How about the one without lights on. Not attracting attention just watch everything with night-vision glasses and leave when it's over.

Marvel swopps into a hardware store and grabs a lantern.

He says, "I'll bring it back when I'm done."

Marvel is a matter of feet away and he sees a rifle poke out the drapes.

Bingo!

He cuts on the Lantern and the rifle drops away and he hears someone scream, "MY EYES!"

Marvel breaks through the window with the lantern and several people are now grabbing their eyes.

Marvel sees three thugs rolling on the floor. He grabs some lead piping and wraps it around the thugs. Marvel then sees the Leader of the group.

He picks up the Leader and says, "Hello Oswald or should I say Penguin!"

The Penguin says, "What are you doing here Marvel?"

Marvel says, "I can ask you the same thing Penguin!"

The Penguin replies, "So I have nothing to say to you. You're not the law anymore than that pointed ear freak! Face it even if you can't tie me to this at all. It's just another street gang making trouble in the Narrows! They're nothing to me! Just more gutter trash! There's nothing you can do hero! I've got friends in high places, and you can hang me out a window all you want I'm safe!"

Marvel says, "I know you've got protection and trying to nail you for this and other crimes is at best difficult, but who's going to save you from..."

Just then Marvel opens the door and standing there are the Golden Dragons just glaring at The Penguin.

Marvel says, "Them! I'm guessing by their expression they heard it all."

The Dragon Leader says, "Gutter Trash? We're gonna have fun with you Cobblepot!"

The Penguin cowers behind Marvel and says, "I'll do anything! Save me Please!"

Marvel looks at The Penguin and then to the Gang Leader and says, "Leave now the sewer system should be clear. You leave now I see no reason to pursue you. Otherwise you will take the fall for him."

The Leader looks at his gang and nods as they all walk away.

Marvel looks at the tied up thugs and says, "You all are talking the fall for this one."

He then looks at The Penguin and says, "You have a Yacht in Gotham Harbor. I'm taking you there and you're going to sail away and never return to Gotham. I'm sure Batman will now how to sever or at least monitor your morally questionable businesses ties."

The Penguin glares at Marvel and Marvel says, "It's either that or I'm sure I can catch up with The Golden Dragons."

The Penguin says, "So be it, but know this Marvel I will one day have my revenge!"

Marvel says, "SHAZAM" and side-steps the lighting bolt that comes very close to The Penguin.

The Penguin cowers and Marvel says, "I'll leave the light on for you."

He bundles up The Penguin so he can't be seen. Marvel then takes flight and sees the Major of the National Guard.

The Major smiles and says, "Things have settled down it seems. What's in the bundle."

Marvel replies, "Just some gutter trash that I need to throw out to sea."

The Major nods and says, "Take the fence down."

Marvel takes flight to the dock and drops Cobblepot on his yacht.

Marvel then watches as the Yacht pulls away from the Harbor.

Good Riddance to bad rubish.

Marvel looks at Harvey's Badge.

He says,"That one was for you Harvey".

Marvel then turns and heads back into the city.

 

[wiegeabo]

Saint Walker sees two individuals on Qward, both very familiar to him.

"Green Lantern Rayner, Red Lantern Atrocitus, it is nice to see you again. I'm glad that you haven't tried to tear each other's heads off. Where are the other representatives? I hope we can find whoever is doing this random killing and that it isn't anyone of our respective Corps. I know it isn't any of the Blue Lanterns and would be surprised if it is a Green Lantern even though they've been known to go rogue."

At this time, Rayner's ring starts charging slowly up to 200% Saint Walker's ring brightens up a bit as well.

A yellow wall springs up between Rayner and Atrocitus, separating them.

"What are you doing, Sinestro?!" Atrocitus demands.

"Just being cautious," I state. And subtlety letting you know who is in charge.

I let the wall drop as Walker and I land.

"I hope we didn't keep you waiting long. There was an...unexpected delay."

 

[Byrd Man]

For a moment, I can swear I see Damian smile. Then he quickly changes face and crosses his arms, acting all pouty again. Heh, like father, like son.

"-tt-."

I place a hand on Bruce's shoulder as he looks out at the city aswell, content enough to breathe a sigh of relief.

"What now, boss? Think Talia can round up her troops faster than we can?"

"I'm certain of it. Talia knows I'll never listen to her demands for Damian if she doesn't."

I turn to Dick and hold my hand out.

"Thank you for the help. I know I don't thank you enough, but I certainly do appreciate all your help."

 

[MST3K 4ever]

"I'm certain of it. Talia knows I'll never listen to her demands for Damian if she doesn't."

I turn to Dick and hold my hand out.

"Thank you for the help. I know I don't thank you enough, but I certainly do appreciate all your help."

Marvel makes his way back through the city and sees Batman and his "family"

He lands nearby and says, "Good evening everyone. I hope I'm not interupting anything important."

Marvel with the speed of Mercury removes Bullock's badge as he moves towards the group.

He says, "I figured since this is, for lack of a better term, your city Batman you might want to know what I dealt with this evening while I'm sure you were doing equally important work if not more so."

Marvel then pauses and says, "First off is there anything else that might require our attention because if there is my report can wait."

 

[Byrd Man]

He says, "I figured since this is, for lack of a better term, your city Batman you might want to know what I dealt with this evening while I'm sure you were doing equally important work if not more so."

Marvel then pauses and says, "First off is there anything else that might require our attention because if there is my report can wait."

Captain Marvel.

I heard he was in town, but this is actually my first time meeting him since he's set up shop in Gotham.

The old me would have been distrustful, telling Marvel off and reminding him that this is my city. That was the old me, though.

"The League is retreating. There may be some looting and panic, but any major problems will come across the network. Thank you for the help, Billy. I have quite a few people that help out here in this city, but nobody like you."

 

[MST3K 4ever]

Captain Marvel.

I heard he was in town, but this is actually my first time meeting him since he's set up shop in Gotham.

The old me would have been distrustful, telling Marvel off and reminding him that this is my city. That was the old me, though.

"The League is retreating. There may be some looting and panic, but any major problems will come across the network. Thank you for the help, Billy. I have quite a few people that help out here in this city, but nobody like you."

Marvel says, " I'm just trying to help where I can Batman. Once the Gotham Bureau of the WHIZ Media Center is online within the next 6 months I'll be heading back to Fawcett City. From what I've seen tonight though it looks like you could use a hand."

He looks out at the city and says, "I can see why you fight so hard for the people of this city. There are some very good people here. The medical staff at Gotham General and the men and women of the GCPD."

Marvel looks back at Batman and says, "Sorry I got caught up in a moment there. Good news and bad news seem to go hand in hand here and tonight was no exception."

Marvel pauses and says, "The good news Oswald Cobblepot is on his way out of Gotham City for good."

Marvel explains the situation in The Narrows to Batman.

Marvel can tell that Batman is waiting to hear the bad news.

Marvel says, "The bad news this may hit a little too close to home, but..."

He shows Batman Harvey Bullock's Badge.

Marvel says, "We were dealing with the situation in the downtown area. Harvey was fighting them as hard as anyone, but I noticed his breathing was starting to become somewhat erratic. I got him to the E-R but within 5 minutes he was in full cardiac arrest. They did everything they could but in the end it was his time."

Marvel wipes a tear away and recomposes himself and says, "One of his last thoughts were of you. He said, 'Tell Bats it was never personal.' If there isn't anything you need I'm going to take this Gordon if you don't mind. He has the right to know before the media gets wind of it."