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Of Ice and Men (Young Justice. Icicle Junior SI.)

Discussion in 'Creative Writing' started by Flightless Man, Apr 19, 2022.

?

Location of Team's base.

Poll closed May 4, 2022.
  1. Missile Silo in Nebraska

    46 vote(s)
    42.2%
  2. Ski Lodge in Colarado

    23 vote(s)
    21.1%
  3. Lighthouse in Hawaii

    28 vote(s)
    25.7%
  4. Ranch in Texas

    19 vote(s)
    17.4%
  5. Summer Camp in Michigin

    12 vote(s)
    11.0%
  6. Junkyard in Washington

    17 vote(s)
    15.6%
  7. Rundown Hotel in North Carolina

    17 vote(s)
    15.6%
Multiple votes are allowed.
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  1. Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    It's funny because I was litterally addressing both comments with this chapter, before I even read them.
     
  2. Threadmarks: Chapter 4: Flurry Along
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 4: Flurry Along
    Redwood forest National Park, California
    July 7, 10:38 AM PDT

    Can’t risk taking the highway, better take take the logging roads instead. The thought of Cassie lifting what had to be a couple thousand pounds with such ease, is enough to convince me of who she really is.

    Once I take the time to think it through rationally, it’s pretty obvious who’s going to be looking for me soon. I just held Superman’s cousin hostage. My blood manages to run even colder than normal as I jog under the enormous trees.

    While being chased off by a ten year old was pretty emasculating, I’m just happy to escape any heat vision. But if I’m really expecting to fight Young Justice, I will need to practice more than my art.

    It’s easy to make a simple sword after such a long night, with the blade appearing fully formed in just a fraction of a second. Too easy to kill someone with this. Probably a good time to work on my image if I want to make an impression.

    Glancing at my shoulders, I focus on turning the spikes into something more like football padding. The sensation leaves my skin tingling as I check myself out in the reflection of my arm. Not bad, though it’s really starting to look like I skip leg day.

    Shaking my head at the idea of tearing a superhero open, I let the weapon turn back into a nearly liquid state. The next attempt ends up being an oversized hammer that I need to increase the ice on my legs to lift properly. And this one just makes me look ridiculous.

    While I keep experimenting with different weapons through the day, the closest thing I find to a favourite ends up being a pair of massive boxing gloves. “Still not quite right.” Grunting in frustration, the ‘gloves’ melt away with a splash. “But I guess it will do for now.”

    It’s only been maybe ten miles and I’m already regretting the choice to escape on foot. Wonder if Kakashi was right, and it really is hard to control energy with my feet?

    “No reason not to try.” It’s only going to be the birds who get a laugh at my expense.

    It takes a while to work up the nerve to just throw myself forward and it ends about as well as I should have expected. The track forms almost perfectly when I let the energy fly from my fingers, only for my to slide right off when my feet connect.

    “I’m going to be at this for a while.” I snort when the watching crows indeed start to caw in amusement.



    Alturas, California
    July 10, 1:44 PM PDT

    Emerging from the tree line with a look of ecstatic glee, I skate towards the road at what has to be nearly thirty miles an hour. After a few dozen failures at creating a slide I could ride, I discovered the Frozone approach was a better choice.

    He had skates in his suit. Once I remembered that, it was simple to turn my clawed feet into a pair of roller blades. It’s a little hard to focus on keeping the ice from freezing all the way but a heck of a lot faster than walking. And something I can actually take pride in.

    Junior never figured this kind of thing out and I can finally say that with confidence. Only a handful of his memories are still out of reach and it’s mostly just the ones forgotten naturally.

    The sight of the golden arches reminds makes me start to drool in anticipation. Three days of fish was more than enough and at this point I’d even rob a Subway.

    Though I wonder if I could get them to sponsor me. “Could always name myself McFlurry if they pay enough.”

    Ignoring the fact that I’d actually have to bring the company in more money than they pay me, I let my mind wander to other branding opportunities. Blizzard would let me work with Dairy Queen and claim the name is just a coincidence.

    I could get some of that Starbucks money and go with Ice Cap. That one doesn’t feel right immediately and I discard the idea. But Frosty is another good idea and Wendy’s has the best fries by far.

    As the road sign in front of me gets closer, I’m shocked at how fast I actually have to be going. The speed limit is fifty and I’m about to pass that truck.

    “Maybe I should just try out for the Olympics.” I don’t consider that idea for more than a few seconds. On second thought, how much money do they make?

    Not enough to satisfy Father... Smirking as I enter the city proper, I cockily wave at the girls gasping in fright. Or myself if I’m being honest.

    I’m not going to settle for working some bog standard nine to five job. Not when I have the ability to create ice out of nothing and know how valuable fresh water is.

    Sirens are already sounding in the distance when I cut in line at the drive through. A single glance at me was enough for the driver to offer me his food instead of waiting. Very eagerly too, which I hope is a sign I’m going to be taken more seriously than Junior.

    “Thanks dude, have a cat.” With a grin at his panicked yelp, I point a single finger at the hood of his car. The nearly perfect Cheshire Cat acts as a perfect hood ornament and I decide the restaurant could do with some ‘gargoyles’.

    As soon as I finish the one on the last corner of the roof, my skates are already back around my feet. “Which way to Sacramento?” I have no plan to go back to the coast, but I hope it throws the heroes off for another day or two.

    “That way.” Stutters out the woman at the window even as her coworkers cower out of sight.

    “You better get a raise out of this. A babe like you doesn’t deserve the kind of stress this job brings.” My comment gets a string of confused blinking, followed by a few nervous coughs as I skate the way she pointed.

    It’s back the way I came but I can always just double back and walk for a few miles. Won’t be a good idea to leave a trail, not after I lose these guys anyway.

    As I start to strain from exertion, a pair of squad cars peel around the corner and start gaining. “Come on Glen, this is just like at the grad party.” I try not to get distracted by my memory of a world I may never see again and leap over the railing.

    The sudden change in direction and terrain is more than enough to lose the cops as I land on the river below. The ice my skates create is just enough to keep me dry as I give the cars both middle fingers. Skating back into the woods with a full belly, I’m not even upset about having to job off the calories.

    “A few more stops and I’ll be ready to end this road trip.” Talking to myself was all that kept me from killing every single crow and I see no reason to stop now. “Next stop, Las Vegas!” I really need to make a friend, because sometimes I actually think someone else is responding to me.

    It’ll give me a chance to make some contacts of my own and preferably legitimate ones. “If any city is going to like my kind of art, it’s the maniacs in Sin City.” And it gives me a few choices if I need to make another quick escape.

    Confident that Superman isn’t holding a grudge, the job ends up going better than I expected. “I might actually get in shape before I get locked up.” Which is something that boggles my mind until I realize Cameron only ever focused on shooting blasts of ice.

    Junior had really only ever been in maybe a dozen fights. With all of them against the archers or Black Canary, I’m not dreading the effort needed to be considered competent. I might even be able to pull off a few surprises, when I do have my showdown with Speedy and his team.​
     
  3. NightmareWarden

    NightmareWarden Versed in the lewd.

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    jog off.

    So we have proof that Cameron’s constructs can leave the “solid ice” phase without costing him control. Maybe he can pull off the move Katara used against Azula? I don’t know how well sound bounces off of thin ice walls, but he might have a way to beat Black Canary. If Cam winds up doing something that could be called “accidentally harmful” to get a trip to jail… Has anyone seen that trick of using salt and ice cubs to cause pre-frostbite? And do you remember the archers having sludge/gummy/foam arrows to restrain people (with an aerosol to remove it)? Imagine Cam freezing someone while they’re in contact with said bungie-gum. Amputation could happen.

    Guesses on what Cam’s big art project will be? I doubt it will involve bringing frozen sewer gunk to the surface for a critical statement, but a man can hope.
     
  4. Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    I think it's more realistic than running for miles and something I wish more stories specified.

    He can maintain a couple half melted/gel like constructs at a time. And I hadn't even considered that cushioning any ice walls from sonic attacks.

    All of his Art Attacks have caused some unintended consequences and they'll be listed in an Interlude with the team/confrontation with them/his trial. Like creating 4 cheshire cats that way over a thousand pounds nd sticking them all on the same roof. Ooh, freeze some as it's expanding and the persons chest would collapse.

    His grand finale for the road trip will be at another national monument. The obviously not evil stuff will have to wait until after the arrest, he can't create confusion in his trial(needs a quick conviction).
     
  5. SIDoragon

    SIDoragon Dragon of Story and Song

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    I look forward to Jr. turning into Sub-Zero. He is a villain, what does he care about trademarks.
     
  6. Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Maybe he should just switch his selling out idea to Midway instead of fastfood. See if he can get himself turned into an alternate skin for sub-zero in the next MK game and sell the rights to his face?
     
  7. Vanbers

    Vanbers Well worn.

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    "Seriously? Nobody likes you. Who'd ever want to play your character?"

    "Better question: How many people want to punch me in the face vicariously?"

    "...Sold."
     
  8. IsaacTheAutobot1229

    IsaacTheAutobot1229 Not too sore, are you?

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    That has to be one of the best ideas ever, a villain who won't come after you for making stuff based on them! I think it is pretty common for villains to go after anyone trying to make merchandise off them so I imagine a villain coming to you and saying "make stuff for people to hit!" would be a new one.
     
  9. Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Well I'm using that now. That's amazing.

    I completely agree and am stealing the line.
     
  10. Threadmarks: Chapter 5: Ice To Meet You
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 5: Ice To Meet You
    Las Vegas, Nevada
    July 13, 9:04 PM PDT

    Strutting down the strip with a confidence brought on by my recent string of good luck, I whistle a tune some might even call jaunty. Once I discovered how easy it was to burst open an ATM, I made sure to hit a good half dozen on my way into the city.

    I still haven’t counted my haul but I had more than enough cash on hand to buy the silence of the fleabag motel staff. All I had to do was ad a feminine tone to my voice and look like I think Superman is still hunting for me.

    It’s giving my neighbours the impression I’m on the run from a conservative family and gives me room to breath. Time which I used incredibly well too.

    Instead of stealing another vehicle, I paid for a beat up truck my second day in Vegas. Kurt’s List is a little more blatant about it’s use for the services Craig kept discreet. But at least I can be confident that the seller ain’t going to report me to the police.

    The new clothes probably help my self esteem. I’ve never been able to afford anything this nice before and none of the staff ran away in fear. It’s Vegas, I guess they’re just used to the freaky walking through the door.

    Knowing I’ll be in mid west for at least another week or so, I decided to embrace the cowboy aesthetic. Several pairs of blue jeans and wife beater, with a nice shiny brass belt buckle.

    In case I need to hide my face, a wide brimmed ten gallon white hate to contrast my black boots. And with the blue bandana, it really caps it all off.

    Glancing at the people walking around me, the families are starting to get out numbered by the young and dumb. Which means it’s finally time to get my tattoo.

    When I noticed that my skin was always numb except to the more intense injuries, finding a parlour that would work on me became a top priority. It took a nearly the whole day to find someone who would ignore my age. But Ariadne finally agreed if came back after closing.

    Winking at the red headed hottie about my age, I just smirk when her equally attractive friend chases me off. “You don’t know what you’re missing out on. I’m going to be world famous by year’s end and this is your chance to get in before it goes to my head.”

    That doesn’t get more than snorts of disgust from the raven haired girl in the tux. “Don’t waste your time on morons like that.” With that dismissal delivered, I get no further notice as she grabs her blushing friend by the hand. “We better get inside. I’m supposed to get sawed in half at ten thirty and I’m already going to be pushing Dad’s patience as it is.”

    “It’s really okay for me to be a volunteer?” Is the last I hear of the conversation and I get distracted by the next group of babes. Ooh, a bridal shower.

    The string of rejections continues all the way back to Pinxit’s place and I decide not to press my luck with the artist. I’m pretty sure I saw her tattoos moving around and I don’t want to find out it’s just the caffeine.

    They didn’t have any energy drinks I recognized, but the Zap stuff I tried was apparently approved by the Flash. Of course maybe that’s why it tasted like his piss?



    Las Vegas, Nevada
    July 14, 5:24 PM PDT

    Even though most of the people staying in the motel are nice and ordinary people, I ended up making another friend in Crazy Quilt.

    Well... friend is a strong word. More like a business partner really and one who can draw all the attention until I’m well outside city limits.

    When I got back to the motel, it’s to find him smoking beside the algae filled pool. “So Paul...” I drawl out slowly. “Decided to help me, or are ya going to wuss out?”

    “I just don’t see how it’s going to pay out,” The man admits with a guilty look on his face. “It sounds more like a giant distraction.”

    “We set it all up and hit any casinos we want.” My explanation is plausible enough to work. “Zatara will be too busy to stop either of us for at least fifteen minutes.” And I’ll be long gone by that point.

    “So why don’t we get more people in on this?” The light based criminal ponders. “We can’t hit every place in that amount of time and more bodies would help us slip away.”

    That’s actually not a bad idea. “Do you know anybody else in town?” He is from Gotham and hasn’t been here much longer than I have.

    “We are on the border of Painkiller and Adonis territory you know.” Pointing up at some graffiti on the building across the street, Paul is starting to look on board with the plan. “I could probably get them to hit a few places while you’re setting everything up for me.”

    “Do it.” Eventually I give the go ahead and give him directions to the place I chose for the display. “Don’t be late though. We need to do this right at sunset for the best effect.”

    “I am a professional you know.” I don’t buy his affronted expression.

    “One who got chased out his home town by Batgirl and Robin.” Countering his response with a snarky one of my own, I smirk at his very clear annoyance. “Not even the big Bat himself.”

    “He was with the League in Australia!” The denial sounds weak to both of us and we share a look.

    Letting my expression melt into one of shared frustration, I extend an olive branch. At least you didn’t get scared off by a civilian.”

    “Really?” Crazy Quilt leans forward, eager to here about someone else getting embarrased. “What happened?”

    “... I’m pretty sure it was Superman’s cousin.” Eventually I sigh and reveal the juicy details. “Because that ten year old was stronger than Brick... Not like it will be much longer for ‘Cassie’ to be wearing the S.

    “Ain’t he in Bane’s weight class?” Gaps Paul at that bit of news and I don’t feel nearly as bad for making such a quick escape.

    “I keep expecting the Boy Scout to come out of nowhere.” I admit why I’ve really been so twitchy and don’t get any laughter from my friend. “It’s why I bailed on California.”

    He nods in understanding and offers me his pack, though I find I still haven’t had a craving. Perks of having fresh lungs I guess.

    “I don’t blame ya in the slightest.” His response is actually heartfelt and I’m starting to feel bad about the plan to ditch him. “That’s some shit luck you got.” Not enough to change my mind though, so I hope you get over it by the time I join you.



    Las Vegas, Nevada
    July 14, 7:10 PM PDT

    When Crazy Quilt joins me on the roof of the Palazzo, his eyes go wide at how large I made everything. “Aren’t you a little young to like disco?”

    The centre piece of tonight is a hollow disco ball almost twenty feet across and I’ve spent a lot of time making sure it will refract light properly. “Hope you aren’t claustrophobic, because it will be a tight fit in the middle. I kind of forgot you’re fat.”

    “Whose stick and bones without that ice armour?” He counters with a snort and approaches the steaming blocks of grey ringing the ball of ice. “What are these?”

    “Dry ice.” My explanation gets a thoughtful nod and I feel my body crave the approval. “I finally figured out that I can freeze more than just water.” And this stuff looks sweet as hell, so it’s going to become one of my signature moves going forward.

    “It looks awesome and will give you some cover to escape under.” I remind him that he’s going to alone up here.

    Taking a deep breath, Paul exhales and starts to climb inside the disco ball. “See you back at the motel. Good luck.”

    “You too buddy,” My words are tinged with guilt but my sacrifice doesn’t seem to notice.
     
  11. Vanbers

    Vanbers Well worn.

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    Really enjoying this, and also not sure if anyone mentioned, but the pun of 'of mice and men' you made the title from is great.

    "Sandbags! Baseballs! Dart boards! The merch I can make is endless!"

    "...Aren't you, I dunno, offended by people like the idea of hitting you in the face so much?"

    "I can dry my tears with the boatloads of money I'm making, friend."
     
  12. ArcanaVitae

    ArcanaVitae I trust you know where the happy button is?

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    Good to see the MC is expanding his powers and improving himself. I like how the MC is just gong his own thing and being very proactive. Also good for him for making a kinda sorta friend.
     
    Alejandro7u7 and Flightless Man like this.
  13. Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Thanks, I'm really proud of the title after taking nearly 3 hours to decide on it.

    I love the Sub-zero sellout idea and I think you named the final choice.

    Thanks, I really wanted to show he is improving, but not actually spend very long detailing the boring parts. I had a job at 12(bowling alley, cash under table.) I never really waited for adult instructions. I'm pretty good at making acquaintances but have a hard time maintaining the day to day aspect of friendships.
     
  14. Threadmarks: Interlude 2: Martians and Magic
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Interlude 2: Martians and Magic
    Las Vegas, Nevada
    July 13, 11:25 AM PDT

    “You said I was meeting one of the new teen heroes,” The younger Zatara gripes to her father as they wait in front of the Palazzo for their guest.

    “I thought you saw the news of the Terror Twins being arrested?” Giovanni smirks down at his equally well dressed daughter. “I thought that news of the Martian Manhunter’s new protege would have left a bigger impression on you.”

    Scrunching her face up in confusion, the magician in training tries to appear like she’s not staring at the approaching pair. “They aren’t green though.” It doesn’t help that the girl’s light skin and cherry red hair contrast with the dark skin of her uncle.

    “John and Megan aren’t public like I am.” Explains the Leagues magical expert. “So I expect you to be careful while you’re out in public with her.”

    “Did anyone think to tell them they probably should have matched?” Zatanna finally shrugs off the disappointment and starts to smile.

    “She left one planet’s discrimination and said she has no intention of going through it here on Earth.” Explains her father with a low voice.

    Blinking at the words, Zatanna probes for more. “What, is she a few shades darker than her uncle or something?”

    “None of us felt comfortable asking,” He admits with a guilty shrug. “I should talk to J’onn about his past. Maybe even see if he wants to come to the show tomorrow.”

    “Greetings Giovanni.” Detective John shakes hands with one of the few public members of the Justice League and introduces his niece Megan Morse to the pair. “I truly appreciate you looking after Megan while I handle this case.”

    “It needs to be done and you have the best chance of doing it undetected.” Waving off the thanks, Giovanni talks around the subject of Santa Prisca. “But if you happen to finish early, I do have an extra ticket for the show tomorrow night.”

    Instead of denying the offer like Batman always does, the disguised J’onn accepts with a wide smile. “I thank you my friend. I have always wanted to see you perform without the threat of danger.”

    “Maybe I should try and work you into one of my shows.” The magician’s eyes shine with inspiration. “The powers you possess would be quite useful in a performance.”

    “I’m not much for showing off,” Admits the Martian with a nod towards his niece. “But I believe Megan might like a summer job.”

    “Really?” With a smile that could light up the entire strip, the redhead’s eyes dart nervously between the adults. “Thank you so much! I’m not red...” M’gann wraps Giovanni in a hug the moment he nods his approval. “So I never thought someone would give me a chance like this.”

    With his own eyes now wide with concern, Giovanni glances over to John. “Your welcome Megan. I didn’t think it would mean so much to you.”

    Once the goodbyes are finished and her uncle is gone, M’gann is practically dragged back outside. “Dad has some business meetings this afternoon so that means we get to do whatever we want until the show starts.”

    “What do you normally do?” With a shy voice, Megan hides her desire fora chance at something human.

    “Anything that will let a minor in the doors.” Answers the magical girl with a string of giggles.



    Las Vegas, Nevada
    July 14, 7:23 PM PDT

    The screams are what end the show early, with Giovanni creating a silver dome to shield the audience. “Stay in your seats until I know it’s safe!”

    While all eyes are on the stage, J’onn slips out discreetly and shifts into his normal form by the time he’s in the hallway. The chaos on the street has him rocket forward and catch a spiralling new chopper before it slams into the hotel.

    Mountains of cold smoke pour off the roof and blanket the streets around the martian. As he helps the news crew out safely, beams of multi coloured light leave the roof in a barrage.

    Anyone too close to the light beams ends up screaming about sudden blindness and J’onn finally has an explanation for all the crashed cars. <Zatara, I’m going to need your help out here.>

    He only hesitates a moment before repeating the message to his niece. Though with the addendum that she avoid any combat and stick to crowd control.

    <I’m going after the source,> Commands the martian as he rockets upwards, directing his fellow League member towards the violence back down at street level. <But you need to stop the robberies, I can see at least three taking place already.

    As he floats over the roof and finds the man inside the disco ball, J’onn barely avoids a concentrated volley sent right for him. <And do not look at the lights.> He calls out in warning and reforms undamaged optic nerves.

    The intensity and frequency of the blasts picks up for a few minutes and Crazy quilt manages too keep the Martian back. But once he starts to pant, the hero takes advantage of the bigger openings.

    Diving forward, J’onn phases through the sphere of ice and grabs the wheezing man. Bringing the criminal with him back into the fresh air, the Martian links his captive into the terror below.

    The C-lister sags in defeat and starts to shake from the exposure to his victims emotions.“How did you get to me so fast?” The confusion that’s leaking out of him, slowly shifting to feelings of betrayal. “Cameron was supposed to distract you.”

    “The robberies would have worked if Zatara was alone.” Explains J’onn as he questions the criminal several stories above the street.

    “I told him he had shit luck.” Peter Dekker scowls at having called it. “Shouldn’t have gotten myself involved in this mess.”

    Nodding at the comment, J’onn doesn’t bother listing all the crimes committed. “Now why don’t you tell me where this Cameron is?”

    “I doubt he’s waiting for me.” Groans the captive as he makes out Adonis being floated over Zatara’s head. “But he said he wanted to see the Grand Canyon. Maybe you can cut him off.”

    “Manhunter to Watchtower.” Wasting not even a second, J’onn activates his communicater with a tap of his finger. “Let Guardian know we have a lead on Junior and have him deploy the team.”

    “But Flash is closer,” Captain Atom disagrees from the orbiting satellite. “He can take care of it in no time.”

    “Batman wants the boys to handle this and I believe this gives me the perfect chance to introduce M’gann to them.” Overrules the martian with a look of pride at his niece. “She and Zatanna did well.”

    “You know Giovanni isn’t going to like that idea.” Points out the radioactive hero with a wry grin gracing his face. “He’s a little over protective.”

    Glancing down to see the magician throwing balls of fire at the goons approaching his daughter, J’onn is forced to agree. “True. But he is the one who voted to approve a training team for the boys, instead of the covert one Batman preferred.”

    “Can you...” Interrupts the incredibly pale Crazy Quilt. “Finish that call on the ground?”

    By the time they land, the cops have started to arrive on the scene. With the officers handling the gangs, it leaves the heroes free argue under the cover of magical silence.

    “Absolutely not!” Giovanni roars in concern at the suggestion. “Zatanna is not ready to be a hero.”

    “Which is something we all agree on,” Reminds J’onn with a calm, soothing voice. “But the boys already tried to go independent and we barely managed to get our foot in the door with Guardian.”

    “Do you really want me trying something by myself?” Cuts in his daughter, revealing she took down the silence charm at some point. “Because now that I got a taste of it, I’m not going to stop.”

    Placing her hands on her hips, Zatanna gives her father a disappointed scowl. “How come you never told me how exhilarating this is? All you ever do is say it’s hard work and dangerous.”

    “Because it is!” Giovanni snaps back at his little girl with a panicking voice.

    “So shouldn’t you be making sure I get the proper training first?” Seeing the fight in her father is weakening, Zatanna pounces. “And not just sneak out each night?”

    “I suppose...” He drawls out in defeat. “But I better not find out about you being too friendly with any of those ruffians.”

    “Or inform the boys of Guardians role as in between.” Reminds the stoic J’onn, getting a mouthed ‘thanks’ from his fellow adult.
     
  15. ThedudeManBro

    ThedudeManBro The Dudeliest Man on the block, Bro!

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    Now I'm wondering If Icypop said he wanted to see something different to every one of the patsies.


    Also I think that's almost a full house. Every chapter someone be it Brainfreeze or someone in the perifery got screwed, so maybe he should look to see if he can pull a Qrow and weaponize his absolute shit luck :V
     
  16. Akatsunami

    Akatsunami The Potatoist.

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    He should join the light properly and have them immediately self destroy by the sheer karma finally hitting them.
     
  17. Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    He just had Quilt tell the gangs when the distraction was going to happen. He also told quilt he would meet up later with the cash, but Quilt realized that wasn't happening (since the casino Iceicle said he was going to hit was still running fine).

    The SI really just needs to start thinking about what happens after. He thinks out a plan but not the fallout from it.

    They're probably ranking Junior as a l little more useful than they first thought. It's not completely unthinkable for him to get a job offer from one of them.
     
  18. SIDoragon

    SIDoragon Dragon of Story and Song

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    ...I am beginning to wonder if Jr doesn't really have a minor secondary power. Like the inverse of Dominio and her "lucky" power. I mean, seriously this kid isn't really trying to do anything and he is causing everyone around him and himself to have some really bad fucking days.
     
  19. ProfessorP.Hardraad

    ProfessorP.Hardraad Thread Necromancer

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    That's Qrow from RWBY's power. Misfortune. It affects everyone around him. Including himself.
     
  20. Threadmarks: Chapter 6: Hail and Highwater
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 6: Hail and Highwater
    Salt Lake City, Utah
    July 19, 12:16 AM MDT

    Tossing aside the newspaper with a snort of laughter, I take great satisfaction at learning about Brick’s arrest. Young Justice may not have found me yet, but the response time to my crimes is getting faster with each one.

    I don’t know why Red Arrow seems so mad whenever he’s on the news and snarling about me not escaping this time. I gave his team a free trip to the Grand Canyon, they should be thanking me.


    I don’t know if I’m actually going to make it all the way across the country. Not before they manage to finally corner me at least.

    The beaches here are just as packed as the ones back in Star City and give me a chance to blend in with the crowd. With the stolen wet suit on, very little is visible to mark me as different. And now that I have a big enough audience, it’s finally time to get started.

    Or at least it should have been. But the amount of times something has gone wrong the last couple weeks, has me on a razor’s edge.

    The sight of two blondes with a striking amount of similarities strutting down the beach, is enough to make me pause. They aren’t normal.

    Where do I know them from? I know I’ve seen their faces before but can’t quite put my finger on it.

    Not everyone is in a bathing suit today, so that on it’s own wouldn’t be an oddity. But the pair are definitely wearing some kind of matching costume. And I think they’re casing out the marina right now.

    “That’s not going to work.” Scowling at the unaware pair about to cause a scene, I make a beeline for them. “I called dibs.”

    With as much bluster as I can manage, I slam my shoulder into the brother with full force. Instead of the cold getting the reaction I wanted, it’s me who is sent sprawling onto the sand. And with barely any effort.

    Ignoring the chuckles as I scramble back to my feet, the ice begins to thicken beneath the wet suit. “You two aren’t locals. I checked.”

    That comment gets a surly scowl from the brother and I finally realize he may only have a couple inches on me. But at least a few weight classes.

    I’m not going to get a great rep by running from every single fight. And this one is at least going to be on both my terms and relatively even odds.

    “You better apologize to my brother,” Demands the girl with a thick southern drawl, crossing her arms for intimidation.

    “It was mighty rude of him,” Her brother agrees with a menacing snort. “So why don’t you get back down on your knees and start begging. I might accept it if you make it convincing.”

    The crowd senses something is about to go down and starts to give us space, with my eyes darting back and forth between the twins. “Well I had come over here to hit on the total hottie...”

    With that I stand straight, cracking my neck in preparation for violence. The ice around me strains the wet suit and gets the duo to step back startled. The costumes finally strike a chord and I recognize the two from the news. The Terror Twins.

    “But I’m fine just hitting you instead.” With that cocky remark, I swing my right fist right into the male Terror’s jaw.

    The siblings had been chased of by just Kid Flash and Superboy, giving me a shocking amount of confidence in my chances. His head snaps back as he gets sent stumbling backwards, though I have to regrow the ice on my hand before I throw a second punch.

    While the twins exchange looks of feral excitement, I decide not to wait. A solid beam of blue overtakes the girl, leaving her frozen under nearly an inch of ice.

    “This is my turf!” I need to build a rep somehow and I’d much rather begin with nobodies like this.

    “You’re really going to regret that!” Tommy as I believe the news called him, roars as he charges towards me. And I do.

    The icy strip that I create under his feet sends him tumbling over. But unfortunately, the momentum makes sure it’s right into me.

    With an angry smirk the blonde meathead snarls down at me. “My turn.”

    “Save some for me!” No matter how fast I regrow the ice, he sends nearly all of it crumbling with only a single blow.

    The momentary pause as Tommy turns back to his sister is all I need. Instead of protecting my face, I focus everything into a single point.

    The ice around my chin tears through the wet suit with an audible rip, getting Tommy to turn his head back towards me. When he feels the pressure on his throat, the Terror realizes what I’ve done.

    “I win.” The smugness I feel as his eyes lock onto my frozen beard is enough for me to forget my string of complications.

    Extended into a needle sharp points, my icy hairs press right against his jugular. Fear flashes in his eyes as I let them puncture his skin enough to draw blood and I decide that’s probably enough.

    “Unless you want to keep pushing this...” The words come out with a hint of cruelty and I try not to revel in it. “You two work for me now.”

    Having Paul take the fall might have bothered me for a few days. But after so many close calls with the sidekicks, I’d rather have some meat shields. I’m starting to think Red Arrow might try and make it look like an accident.

    “What are you waiting for Tommy, smash that piece a crap into paste!” His sister snarls from behind, unaware of how close she is to being an only child.

    The crowd has had more than enough of the action by this time though. The entire beach starts clearing out in droves, with calls for the police already filling the air.

    “Tuppence...” The defeat in Tommy’s voice is palpable and I revel in such a complete victory. “He’s got me dead to rights.”

    “... You sure?” Most of the fight is gone from her voice, wariness replacing it as she waits for my next move.

    “He so much as twitches in any direction,” My words are as cold and emotionless as I can manage at the moment. “And I’ll find out if twins really can feel each other’s pain.” I really hope they don’t call me on it, because I have no idea if it was a bluff or not.

    “What are the choices again?” Tuppence snarls at me, while her brother just tries not breathing too hard.

    “Work for me and get paid well...” I let the words hang in the air for a few seconds. “Or die whenever I decide.”

    “What’s stopping us from killing you once he’s back on his feet?” She sounds like the slightly smarter twin and so I focus on convincing her.

    How ‘truly’ lethal I am is something I don’t want anyone to be sure of and so I stretch the truth with the next threat. “You know how much of the human body is really just water? Because unless you can solve that little problem, I can freeze it in less than a second.”

    “So why didn’t you?” She proves that some brain cells are rubbing around in her skull and cautiously doubts my claim. “You just let Tommy wail on ya.”

    Trying to act as cold as the memories of Senior show him throughout Junior’s entire life, I think it works. “I need a crew and not corpses and that way kills you too fast. But I can probably make do with just one of you if I have to.”

    “I vote yes.” Whimpers Tommy, his eyes not having moved from my beard since it touched him.
     
  21. Jkript

    Jkript I trust you know where the happy button is?

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    So he is dc aokiji lite and also a c rated villan kid so he is a d rate villan.
     
  22. Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    The Si has already caused more damage than his father has. Almost 20'000 people got blinded in vegas and lots were driving at the time (J'onn only caught the closest helicopter.).
     
  23. Visual Pun

    Visual Pun Reawakening Revenant (i.e. 'Venant'?)

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    Interesting wrinkle.

    So when Superboy and Miss Martian infiltrate Belle Reve…..

    Well, I’m looking forward to how that all pans out.
     
  24. ArcanaVitae

    ArcanaVitae I trust you know where the happy button is?

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    Damn he is getting notorious real quick.
     
  25. Vanbers

    Vanbers Well worn.

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    Huh, is he accidentally creating a Kid Villain Squad opposite the Young Justice Team? Hah.
     
  26. NightmareWarden

    NightmareWarden Versed in the lewd.

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    Was it publicly known that Quilt Man’s blasts blind people? Or did the disco ball enhance his powers? Because even 5000 seems insane for such a short attack. I can believe thousands getting injured, but crippled to that degree? Presumably from one blast each? No. Especially not when Martian Manhunter responded so quickly.

    I understand you’re building up Junior’s rap sheet for an eventual court scene or guilt-based confrontation with heroes, but try to keep the numbers in the realm that we audience members can picture.
     
  27. Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    It may not be Superboy and M'gann.

    All about the timing and placement of the attacks. People really like national monuments/parks.

    Not intenionally.

    I actually did keep the numbers believable. I may have actually understated it. The Palazzo is in the top ten tallest buildings in Vegas (so very little to obstruct the view. It's Nevada (almost nothing to stop the light beams.).

    Las Vegas has a population of 660K, with a metropolitan population of 2.27 million. Vegas had 1.06 million https://www.lvcva.com/research/visitor-statistics/ visitors in june and it averages out to 122K per day.

    Anyone who looked up at sunset had beams of light cascading at them for 4 minutes before J'onn interfered (sunset that day was 7:21).



    Edit: 20k/800k (so we low ball it and don't use the full 2 million.) is only .025 percent of the possible victims at the time.
     
    Last edited: Apr 26, 2022
  28. MudkipSage

    MudkipSage Versed in the lewd.

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    Agreed, those numbers would be high for a Joker plot. An elaborate one. Compare the injuries to a natural disaster. The number people who SAW was probably high, the actual injuries probably way lower.
     
  29. Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    It's only .025% of the possible victims and a good chunk of them will recover eventually. J'onn just couldn't wait a few days/weeks/months.
     
  30. NightmareWarden

    NightmareWarden Versed in the lewd.

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    Right, but Crazy Quilt’s main strategy is hypnosis. And misdirection for illusions. I could imagine Doctor Light, the malicious ass, blinding people without a care to prove his superiority. Crazy Quilt intentionally terrifying people and injuring cops and heroes who try to stop him? Sure. Some direct civilian injuries and some caused indirectly by stampedes? Sure. Property damage? Yeah. But raw cornea damage from his “performance of a lifetime,” with batteries full power, doing that much damage in so little time? Your reasoning just doesn’t satisfy my skepticism. I don’t have a better complaint than that…

    Icicle Junior’s disco ball enhancing the strength of Crazy Quilt’s blasts? Sure, I could see that being a factor. But gangsters were rampaging the heart of the city and cars were apparently crashing.

    It is just… the scale is no laughing matter, if 20k are the actual numbers. DC comics and shows rarely put firm numbers on civilians harmed by a villain plot. There are cases in Young Justice specifically where millions of civilians were likely hurt, absolutely, but it is hard to imagine someone ever making up for harming that many people.
     
    LordBeats and Flightless Man like this.
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