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Project Lobotomy

Discussion in 'Creative Writing' started by Flightless Man, Aug 21, 2020.

?

Changelings appearance red or green?

  1. Classic green. Found as Mojo Jojo

    63 vote(s)
    52.1%
  2. Intune with the Red. Found as Clifford the Big Red Dog

    58 vote(s)
    47.9%
Loading...
  1. Threadmarks: Episode 1: New Year, New Life
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Revision has begun Follow Threadmark to new version. Old version still available by scrolling down.


    Project Lobotomy
    Episode 1: New Year, New Life
    Jan 01/2010
    00:01 AM
    Coming to awareness is a gradual process, one I resist as long as possible. A warmth surrounds me fully, its embrace soothing. The harder I try to return to sleep however, the more my mind begins to wake. Sounds of churning bubbles get me to open my eyes in irritation. With sight available, I realize immediately blissful sleep will be an impossibility.

    My bedroom has become some kind of sterile lab. It contains a single desk with an off-white computer monitor. The room is a fairly spacious one with mint green walls and a digital clock with glowing red letters, displaying the time of zero zero zero two. The only other thing of note I see is a black man with a crew cut sitting behind the computer. My bed has also changed. It’s become some kind of cylindrical glass column. I'm floating inside, suspended by a very warm amber gel. Somehow I'm able to breathe unaided in this substance.

    The shock is keeping my panic suppressed for now. When I look down, I'm disturbed to find I have been changed from my warm flannel pajamas. Currently I'm wearing a full body white spandex unitard. With no discernible markings and only my hands, feet and head uncovered, I still feel naked somehow in this tight get up. Something is off about my hands so I bring one to my face for closer inspection.

    My once skeletal hands have become massive meat gloves of milk white skin tone. Coarse black hair sprouts thickly on the back of my fist. Clenching my albino fist, I can feel strength I had only ever dreamed of. Of course that would make sense, I’m clearly dreaming. My self inspection has drawn the man at the desk’s attention, getting him to quickly tap a few things into his console and rise to his feet.

    The goo I’m cocooned inside begins to drain though the floor extremely quickly. In seconds, in fact, I'm standing on my own two feet and shivering. The glass parts in the middle, exposing me to the frigid air. Stepping out of the tank on shaky but powerful legs, I come to a stop before the scientist. He pushes his glasses up his nose and pulls a pen from his lab coat.

    Project Lobotomy.” I'm addressed with clinical detachment. “Glad the third Starro finally worked. Mr Luthor was becoming… difficult.” Without waiting for an answer, he marks a few things down on a clipboard. Next, he pokes me a few times and I’m still too stunned to react. His name tag says Stockman and I focus on that until a syringe is revealed. He brings it towards my arm and I panic. I try to swat his hand away from me. Instead, I strike him so hard he’s lifted off his feet and flies across the room. Stockman slams in into the wall, cracking it. Staring at his unmoving body I begin to hyperventilate.

    Hours pass as I stand there freaking out over killing my doctor. A look at the clock reveals only six minutes have gone by since I woke up. Ok, I can see him twitching a little so he’s still alive.

    I'm not a murderer, that's good.” I mutter to myself in relief. Taking advantage of my chance to learn what the hell is going on, I rush around the desk and look at the screen. The open display shows an empty tank with my vitals grayed out. I minimize it and begin checking through a folder labeled ‘Photos’. Inside are a six pictures.

    The first shows me what looks like a round blue school bus with no wheels. It looks like it fell from the air and crashed through a forest canopy into a hillside. The second is a picture of a live action version of Mark Hamill’s Joker. It’s a mugshot of him grinning maniacally towards the camera. I'm confused now. What, is the doctor a fan of comics? I gag when I see the Joker again in the third picture. He’s been torn in half and his head is lying beside him. Clicking faster now, the fourth picture is of Harley Quinn, her whole jester get up and everything. Hoping not to see another body, I continue.

    Picture five is another Joker cosplay. This one looks like the version from the new The Batman show. He’s in an empty glass cell suspended in blackness. It kind of looks like a unicorn is in another cell beside him. Strange. Six is of Lobo, the real life version again. He’s floating in a tank of yellow fluid kind of like I was not long ago. He’s also wearing the same jumpsuit I am but he has waist length ebony dreadlocks floating behind him. And I have--. I reached up to calm my growing suspicions only to find the displayed hairstyle and something squishy and slimy.

    Grabbing it, I pull it from my head to get a look only to throw it to the concrete floor in horror. It’s a freakish pink starfish with a massive unblinking eye on one side and a mouth leaking a frothy white drool from the underside. I've seen these in that Batman Beyond episode. That’s a Starro, but it’s barely moving. My only way to learn more is on the computer so I return to the files. Why there’s pictures of Harley and the Joker, I have no idea.

    When I find journal entries I know I have found my goal. Reading them, however, leaves me with answers I don’t like all so much. An entity who became known as the Joker crashed in 1978 and went on a twelve year crime spree. After a battle with Batman in a sawmill, he fell onto a conveyor belt. The head regrew, becoming the one known as Joker Jr. whose actions so far, have him acting nearly the same as his father. Many believe Jr. is in fact the regenerated Joker.

    He has been contained in a separate facility. His torso and lower halves also regrew, each into a new unique body. Harlequin is much less violent so far far but has joined up with a crew she calls her Royal Flush gang. As of yet they have only targeted low profile targets like casinos, leaving no need to apprehend her while we continue to observe her actions in the wild.

    Having the torso here, we infused the third new body with DNA from Project Phantom. Lobotomy has become much more muscular and has an estimated strength in the range of fifty tons. This is greatly superior to his family’s barely above baseline human strength. So far, the project’s regeneration has caused two Starro to die from exhaustion. Fortunately, the third Starro's memory implants are working better. It is merging the fragmented knowledge of the earlier two attempts and the genetic memory of the Joker.

    I stop reading and frown in concern. Is this really saying my memories of my entire life are fake? I’m not even the first version they tried to make? I'm Kyle three point oh. Hell, is Kyle even really my name then? The longer I'm awake the harder and harder it’s getting to remember clear memories of my life. I think I was in my senior year of high school, but can’t remember any of my classes or even my friends’ faces. I can’t even picture my family now. I know I want my mom. I remember her being there and caring for me but I cant remember any specifics of her.

    I can remember watching versions of superheros on TV and reading about them in comics. Why are these files acting like it’s all real? Trying to focus on any memory of these is bringing me contrary versions with drastically different art styles. I'm going to have to deal with this once I'm out of here. Right. Escape now, crumble to tears over my identity crisis later. With the beginnings of a plan, I enter the elevator and press the button to go up a floor. One by one until I find a window or building plan, I guess. When the doors close with a whoosh of displaced air the elevator begins to rise.

    It’s a quick ride up with the doors opening showing me a near identical room, except one with maybe two dozen tanks instead of one. The scientist at the desk doesn’t notice my presence behind him. Not waiting for him to have a chance to react, I rush at his back with a mighty kick. His face smashes into his monitor leaving him unconscious at the desk and his computer with a smashed screen on the floor. That was not handled well, I can admit. So, time to see what’s in one of these tanks. Hopefully I'm not going to find a bunch more Joker clones, kids, or whatever I am.

    All but one of the tanks contains a white humanoid form like mine. Already not a good sign. Really, the men look like albino versions of J’onn J’onzz and even the children are bald and big headed. The females have more rounded heads like a human with stringy orange hair. Each has a Starro on their head and none are moving. A single pod holds a green martian. She’s not nearly as bright as I remember the Manhunter’s skin being. Hers is actually paling before my eyes. Not wanting to allow whatever is going on to finish with the girl, I smash an elbow into the glass allowing it to to drain.

    Quickly, I reach in and grasp the lavender starfish on her head and tear it free. It blinks up at me and begins to struggle so I toss it at the wall with a wet squelch. The martian inside stirs as the fluid empties, her skin tone already looking a more vibrant green. She brushes her cherry red hair from her face and her blue eyes focus on me.

    <What’s going on? Where’s my family?!> Her panic rises at the large albino man before her. <No, no, no! The White Plague can’t be on earth too.”> Her voice cracks in despair. I step back, hoping to relieve her panic at me and think in confusion. White plague? I know what the Black Plague is. Am I remembering it wrong? Her head tilts cautiously and I hear her voice again. <You don't have the White plague?> OK, her mouth didn’t move but I heard that. <And you aren't telepathic on earth?> she asks timidly.

    Not as far as I know.” I shrug and remember martians are psychic. Going to have to get used to having people in my head if I really am living in a world with superpowers. She’s way better looking then the Starro though, so it could be worse. “I was in one of these tank things a floor down when I broke out.” Grimacing, I explain, “Those Star things seem to be messing with our heads so I smashed you out. The ones in the other pods seemed finished so I chose to get you out first.” I declare, admitting my lack of any further plan.

    Finally she leaves the protection of her glass chamber, floating into the air. The martian girl becomes translucent and then passes right through the glass. I wonder if I can fly too? The files said I was spliced with a phantoms’ DNA and ghosts can fly, right? Can’t they also go through walls? Is she Project Phantom? My staring is making her self conscious. She blushes a jade color and asks,

    <Well, thanks then.> She frowns. <I don’t know how long I was in there, they kept trying to make me think what they wanted me to.> Yeah, I conclude.

    Definitely brainwashing aliens here then. They were doing the same to me.” I admit with some trepidation. “Most of my memories are implanted actually.” Widening eyes greet this, followed by her soft reply, finally out loud.

    I’m sure once we find my father he can help you sort them out.” She has such an adorably hopeful expression, I smile and nod choosing not to dash her hopes yet. “My name is M’gann.” she introduces herself. I have a decision to make, I realize. Do I give my remembered name and go for total honesty? Or do I try going with the amnesiac route since it’s so inviting. Is it easier to believe everything I know is make believe? Or do I accept everyone I have ever known is dead, or at least lost to me forever? I make up my mind.

    I guess you can call me Lobotomy. That's the name the doctor called me.” Yeah this will be easier then wallowing in the misery of my lost home, I conclude to myself. Really the only way I might be able to keep going once the shock is over. M’gann wraps my massive frame in a hug with her delicate arms. Think quieter if I want privacy, I note. Her voice in my head is full of sympathy.

    <I lost my home too, that’s why my family was trying to escape to Earth.> Releasing my tension, I pat her back softly a few times.

    Thanks.” my answer is chock full of emotion. “Let’s, uh. Lets see who's in these other tanks.” I offer, hoping to end this embarrassment I feel. She nods, her shoulder length hair bobbing along. When we look inside the nearest glass tank she gives off a horrified gasp.

    <K’hymm.> she mumbles, even in my head. M’gann hurries around the room in a desperation that continues to rise, each martian’s identity adding to her loss. <I need to get away from here.> her panic clear in my mind. <Please,> she begs, <they’re my family, and no one’s ever had their mind restored after turning white.> Nodding my agreement, I lead her to the elevator.

    Yeah, let’s find a way out of here.” I answer calmly. “Looks like we have a few more floors to check.” Embarrassed, I admit, “Please don't let me wreck any more computers. I'm not really very good with them” I receive a giggle, better then I was hoping really, all things considered.

    <I’l try.> is her reply. I'm stopped from answering when the doors part before us. Yet another identical room is before us. So far only the number of pods in each room has been different. I leap forward and grab the guard in a chokehold. He struggles but a gesture from M’gann has him sleeping in my arms. This room contains four tanks of apparently human occupants.

    Checking the files on the computer as fast as possible reveals this floor contains Project Phantom. Four Kryptonian children, obtained when General Zod attacked from the Phantom Zone. His three year old son, along with three other children ages seven to thirteen also retrieved upon his defeat. Something in the phantom zones very make up has modified these kryptonians.

    No longer reliant on solar light of any color, they can charge their cells with power from any known light source. This came at a trade off. Their maximum power levels and recorded strength are only at 60% of Superman and Supergirl’s own. Over time the older children have become attuned with their Starro. Kon-Zod, however, has not. His brain has been resistant to memory implantation.

    So far only general knowledge has been implanted, combat orders are to begin implementation in the new year. I get M’gann to take a look and we conclude only this ‘Kon’ should be released. When his tank drains he begins floating towards us. Seriously, can everyone but me fly? M’gann grabs the Starro with her mind and flings it away from the sixteen yer old teen. I step in front of him and get his attention cautiously.

    Hey there, are you doing alright? I'm Lobotomy and this is M’gann.” I gesture at the green girl. “We busted out of our own pods. We’re experiments, it looks like we’re being made to kill superheros.” Here my grin turns savage. “So, clearly were being held by the bad guys.” He nods slowly, coming to the same conclusion. “Let’s free anyone else who hasn’t been controlled yet and get the hell out of here!” Both agree enthusiastically. A loud speaker crackles on with a sneering voice declaring,

    Such a shame. We spent so much time and money and each of you.” The speaker takes a dramatic pause.” But if you insist on this escape plan I will have to declare you failures and begin anew.” We pause for only a second before Kon roars at the ceiling.

    I'm coming for you!” the raw fury gives the voice I now recognize as Dr. Stockman pause.

    If you insist. So be it.” His tone takes on a menacing growl. “Let us see if you have as much luck recruiting Project Firestorm.” And with that, his voices leaves us alone. M’gann worriedly declares,

    <Firestorm does not sound good.> While Kon grabs his head and winces at her voice, she admits. <My people really don’t do well with fire.> Glaring at her, Kon growls.

    I have had enough with things in my head telling me what to think.” He jabs a finger towards her in frustration. “Stay. Out. Of. My. Brain!” She squeaks out an apology and we enter the elevator, hoping to move past the awkwardness. This room is more like mine only a single pod. However, it has no scientist at the desk and no computer either. He must have grabbed it and escaped. Inside the tank floats an orange skinned buxom model. She’s in the same white unitard we all have on but she really fills hers out. Her hair flows around like a cape of flowing white, nearly reaching her feet. Unlike everyone else, her eyes are open and she doesn’t look pleased to see us.

    The woman I would call Starfire's sister, if only more physically mature compared to the version I remember from Teen Titans, begins to clench her fists and growl. In a flash her hair changes from an ivory white to a raging crimson, nearly blood red. Her eyes are now glowing the same color and red flames begin to wrap around her body. In seconds she stands imposing before us. Even my six foot two size only reaches her nose. Filling her tank with flames, it explodes, sending molten glass shards across the room. Several pieces of shrapnel embed themselves into me.

    Searing pain blossoms along my left side from the holes drilled through me. The molten glass cauterizing my wounds instantly, causing me hiss out in pain. M’gann avoided danger by phasing through the wall of glass sent towards her. Kon was able to tank the shards of glass easily. Reacting on instinct it seems, he rushes at her.

    She meets him in the air grappling at near even strength. Two well muscled bodies, both straining gloriously with the effort. In Project Firestorms blind rage, Kon is able to overpower her, slamming her back against the walls repeatedly. Each impact cracking the walls more. On her head, the Starro controlling her has become a charred black. the flames and color of her eyes have changed to a yellow as she begins fighting more frantically to free herself from his hold.

    Several swift knees to his gut do just that and with her newfound freedom rockets behind us. The Starro once controlling her falls from her head. Like an overcooked pastry it crumbles. Sending a wave of golden flames at the steel doors, they rapidly warp and give way. She escapes into the elevator shaft and propels herself upwards. She’s gone for now but will kind of be in our way later. Her flight... why can everyone but me fly? Wait, I have some of Kons DNA and he can fly. Maybe I can, too?

    Sucking in my pride, I jump as high as I can, willing myself to remain in the air with all of my might. I make a few more attempts before desperately flapping my arms like a goose in flight. My attempts to fly are met with a pair of shocked expressions. M’gann asks in concern,

    <Are you alright>? Kon doesn’t hear this and also asks,

    What are you doing, you look ridiculous.” Chuckling to mysel, I admit after a few seconds pause,

    I was, um... Trying to fly.” I defend myself at the raised eyebrow he gives me, “Hey, all three of you can. I had to try.” Sitting on my rear after my last attempt dropped me, I wryly finish, “I guess you can call me Fall-Down Boy.” M’gann gives me a giggle while Kon continues to stare before replying,

    Ok, Fall-Down Boy it is.” and begins rising after Firestorm. M’gann lifts me telepathically and follows after him, the elevator now a pile of smoldering scrap below us. With the shaft aflame now and with smoke filling it, she begins to falter. She reaches out mentally to explain,

    <The flames are so big,> Here she shudders, <I can’t go any higher.> While her mind’s voice is shaking I grab her hand and think as hard as I can, focusing on each word like a neon sign so she can hear me.

    <I’ll be our eyes, you be our wings,> I smile even though she can’t see it. <because if we don't get out now, the fire’s going to spread.> Her genuine laughter surprises me,

    <You don’t need to think each word at me, just clearly direct the whole message.> She gives me a big grin and teases, <Even children aren't so bad.> She does close her eyes, though, and allows me to guide us up. We don't get out on the next floor this time, instead passing dozens of doors on our ascent. Firestorms trail of flames rising hundreds of feet up. Its only at the shafts top she chose to leave.

    Melting her way onto the highest floor available, she didn’t go far into the lobby of the office building. Because instead of fighting, she has her hands on either side of Kon’s Face and her lips pressed against his.

    For his part, Kon stands stock still with both arms firmly against his side. He has a rigid back and eyes full of panic. Noticing our arrival, Firestorm - again with ivory hair and eyes - greets us in English.

    Many Apologies, fellow prisoners. My earlier actions were not of my own.” she steps back from Kon and looks at us contritely. “I was being controlled by the Fleshy Star. Once free, I panicked and fled.” looking embarrassed, she adds, “This one caught up to me.” she gestures to Kon. “I feared a fight, but you tried the talking with me.” tilting her head to one side she asks. “Why?” He frowns and considers the question before answering,

    We were all in a tank with one of those things telling us what to think and how to feel.” he admits to us all. “It was frightening. And I could see how scared you were when yours burnt off.” He holds out a hand and introduces himself. “My name is Kon-Zod.” She grasps his hand with both of hers and shakes it vigorously.

    New friends, I am Kori’andr. Princess of Tamaran.” Releasing Kons grasp, she sticks a hand out for M’gann and I. When we each grab one, she shakes then vigorously. I have to ask about what we floated in on, my curiosity needs to be satiated.

    What was with the whole lip lock thing?” The honest confusion in my voice has her laugh out an explanation.

    In Tamarans past, we warred amongst ourselves. Our sorcerors’ came together and enchanted our peoples blood.” Her look of pride at these ancients from her past speaks of a good reason. “Now when we kiss, we are exchanging languages. This was done so ours would end.” Kon chimes in, changing the subject back to our introductions.

    The green girl is M’gann, she’s a martian.” He points to me next, “And he calls himself Fall-Down boy.” I groan, “My name is Lobotomy.” I consider how to explain my reasoning for a name change. “I learned in my tank, on Earth people who battle crime use a code name and wear a costume. It inspires civilians and gives the enemy an appropriate target.” What kid doesn’t want to be a hero? I know I did. Here and now, when I'm in a world of aliens and superpowers I have a very good chance of doing it.

    If the files are right about my brain healing the memories they created, who knows how long I’m even going to exist. Might as well live out a dream before I cease. I stand a little straighter and announce, “If these people were trying to make me kill people who save the world, I feel responsible for stopping them. I can also admit it’s likely the only way I’ll ever know more about what they did to me.” Frowning, I explain I'm stronger then my species is supposed to be. Like, a lot stronger. Kori’andr smiles at me in empathy.

    Likewise, they did the changes to me. My kind lack the control over flames I have been given.” She looks down at her fists and green flames appear. “Now when I feel strong emotion I can do more then fly. I can reflect my feelings into fire.” She looks to us and nods. “I am of the agreement. If those who hold us wish for us to kill these heroes, we shall instead join them. As stars change fire over time, this shall be the name I wear for battles.” she finishes proudly. Kon has been nodding along.

    I'm pretty powerful.” he adds with a careful smile. “I think I’l be going by Powerboy.” Our smiles of encouragement settle it for him. M’gann agrees with us, finally looking like her strength has returned.

    These monsters turned my family into mindless savages,” her expression grim and voice stern, “they spoiled my family so I’m going to spoil them!” Making eye contact with each of us in turn, she declares, “Call me The Spoiler.” Our newfound good cheer doesn’t last long. Stockmans’ Voice crackles to life on the intercom once again.

    Children. I gave you a chance to return to your pods. Now, Mr. Luthor wants you alive,” the voice loses all warmth as he finishes, “but barely breathing is still alive. Plasmus, have some fun.” Crashing glass from overhead signals for us to jump away. A mass of brownish purple ooze pools on the floor before rising into a vaguely humanoid form. Towering above us at a good twelve feet tall, his ‘face’ forms a smirk and he sends a tendril of ooze towards each of us.

    I struggle all I can but its like being an ant in glue. I'm trapped and as the goo begins tightening around my body I check my comrades. Starfire has ignited into green flames, her eyes radiating raw will power as she struggles. All her efforts only serve to cook Plasmus around her sealing her with rapidly diminishing air.

    Powerboy is likewise unable to bring his strength to bear and his furious glares only leave small patches of hardened ooze. Spoiler has done as her name implies and phased free. She frantically catches sight of our trapped forms and dodges a new tendril, this one sharpened like skewer. Several more frantic stabs fly towards her before she goes intangible gain. She locks eyes on me and flies through my cage, bringing me with her into freedom.

    <We have to get the others free. Try and distract him.> are my instructions. I try my best but Plasmus is hurling globs of corrosive tar, sending them out in frenzied waves in every direction. Moving faster than a body with my bulk has any right to I dodge around his attacks. After the first few strikes, a pattern of swelling ooze became an obvious sign of where the next attack was coming from. I'm able to tear a door free from it’s frame. With my makeshift shield I’m able to charge straight into center mass of the monster.

    The force I crash into it with splatters the ooze all around me. Plasmus is able to reform itself fast with me inside him. Only my head and a single arm remain free from my corrosive cage. Pain burns across my body as Plasmus begins eating away at my skin. My only saving grace is how mild his acidity is, painful but not immediately fatal. Frantically I struggle to free myself but to no avail. With ooze pulling me deeper inside hoping to drown me, I gaze at my companions who are no better off.

    M’gann, only able to remain intangible for seconds at a time, has been grabbed and is being crushed against the floor. Kori was unable to free herself and is encased in a shell of hardened tar weakly struggling, her flames nearly extinguished. Kon has been grabbed by his legs and is being slammed between the floor and ceiling, the rapid impacts stopping him from countering. Alarms are blaring and smoke billows forth from the flaming elevator shaft. My last sight before being completely submerged is a window exploding inwards. Three teenage figures crash inside and roll to their feet, in costume and ready for action.
     
    Last edited: Sep 6, 2020
    Darkban, Wolfheart77726, 3ma and 12 others like this.
  2. Threadmarks: Revised. Arc 0, Chapter 1: New Life, New Year
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

    Joined:
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    Well Here is the revised chapter one. With the new forward.

    My friend died almost two years ago. I have had a really hard time getting over the senselessness of it. I chose to insert me and my friend when we were 17, the 2008 versions of us as a way of working through his passing. Combining every cartoon i remember us liking together and adding them to the Young Justice verse. I call it Earth Etc. The only thing you can know for sure is as long as it wasn't a marvel comic cartoon, it could be added.


    The setting is the bones of the Young Justice universe (about 60% of setting), the meat is an amalgamation of Hannah Barbara, Dexter’s Lab, Mummies Alive, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 80’s version and 2003, Archie’s Weird Mysteries, the DCAU (Batman, Superman, Justice League, Static Shock, Zeta Project and Beyond), Scooby Doo, Clifford, Inspector Gadget, Disney’s Atlantis, The Batman, Sabrina the Teenage Witch cartoon, MIB cartoon, Attack of the Killer Tomatoes, Godzilla and Kong animated shows, Alien, Predator, and Friday the 13th. I am definitely forgetting a few. And the skin/artstyle of my setting is live action.

    Like every Self insert, this is wish fulfillment. However by basing it on younger me I hope I am able to treat this more like writing about another character. For me the main fantasy is imagining doing all this with one of my best friends when we were careless and irresponsible teens.


    Edit: Wow, can't believe i forgot the thanks to Doggbertcarrol who's work for years has keep me going through the hard times. The Stories; With This Ring, A Subtle Knife, Assimilation, and Sunshine Superman have all been huge inspirations in motivating me to do something with my mourning.

    Project Lobotomy
    Arc 0: Leaving the Lighthouse
    Chapter 1: New Year, New Life
    ?????
    Jan 01/2010
    00:01 AM
    Coming to awareness is a gradual process, one I resist as long as possible. A warmth surrounds me fully, its embrace soothing. The harder I try to return to sleep however, the more my mind begins to stir awake. The sound of churning bubbles, is a constant melody. In this peaceful state I have no concept of the passage of time.


    Mechanical clanks from outside my room, get me to open my eyes in irritation. With sight available, I realize immediately blissful sleep will be an impossibility. My bedroom has become some kind of sterile circular lab, maybe twenty feet in diameter.

    My bed has also been changed in my sleep. It’s become some kind of cylindrical glass column. I'm floating inside, suspended by a very warm amber gel. Somehow I'm able to breathe unaided in this substance. The shock is keeping my panic suppressed for now.

    It contains a single oval desk with a red laptop. The room is a fairly spacious one with mint green walls and a digital clock with glowing red letters, displaying the time of zero zero zero nine. The floor is a dreary gray concrete with a central support pillar in the middle of the room.

    The only other thing of note I see is a Hispanic man with a crew cut sitting behind the desk. He is wearing a black suit with matching shades on his face. His dispassionate typing does not hold my attention for long.

    When I look down, I'm disturbed to find I have been changed from my warm flannel pajamas. Currently I'm wearing a full body white spandex unitard. With no discernible markings and only my hands, feet and head uncovered, I still feel naked somehow in this tight get up. Something is off about my hands so I bring one to my face for closer inspection.

    My once skeletal hands have become massive meat gloves of milk white skin tone. Coarse black hair sprouts thickly on the back of my fist. Clenching my albino fist, I can feel strength I had only ever dreamed of. Of course that would make sense, I’m clearly dreaming. My self inspection has been interrupted.

    The echoing sound of a chain being lowered ends and a pair of stainless steel doors slide open. Emerging from the revealed elevator, is two men. The first who enters the room, is a bald white man dressed in a fancy blue suit. His expression of arrogance is clearly visible.

    Beside him, is a black man with short cropped hair. He has a pair of square glasses on his face and has a white done up lab coat on his body. In his hands is a clipboard of some kind. They approach the man at the desk who jumps to his feet at attention. I can see he has a small silver gun holstered on his thigh.

    A few clipped commands to the guard, has him leading the new men to a tank identical to mine on the opposite side of the room. Inside is a black haired teenager, his hair flows around him in a shoulder length mullet.

    His pale skin still looks a lot healthier then my porcelain white tone, he only looks like he needs a few days of sun. On his skull is some strange purple starfish creature. It has a single black and yellow eye that stares unblinking at the men in front of its tank talking. Reaching to my own scalp I find a similar creature.

    Grasping it tightly, I pry it from my head with ease. It was grasping me only weakly, mine looks pale and sickly. It twitches weakly in the syrupy substance before me. On its underside is a leech like mouth, full of teeth and ringed and leaking a pinkish frothy fluid. I've seen these in that Batman Beyond episode. That’s a Starro but it’s barely moving.

    My motion does not go unnoticed like it had before. This time the three men hurry over to my tank and have a few muffled words with each other. When they finish the bald white man, clearly the leader begins to stare into my eyes.

    He says something to the scientist beside him who taps on the glass in front of me. He frowns when I reach a hand towards his on the other side of the glass. He clucks his tongue and taps a button on the tank.

    As electricity discharges inside my prison, I convulse in pain for minutes. When it finally relents, my oppressor is waving a finger at me with an evil smirk. Another command is input above my head, and the solution I am in begins to change to a green tint.

    Almost immediately I become drowsy. With my eyes slipping closed I can only curse these men futilely for now.






    ?????
    Jan 01/2010
    09:22 PM
    When I regain awareness sometime later, I frantically gaze around my room. Before I can even think ‘Man that was a weird nightmare’, I realize it was real. The solution I’m floating in is once again golden, while the glowing red digits of the clock display the time as nine twenty two.


    The guard behind the desk is dressed in the same black suit and tie combination as the previous one. The rather bland white guy almost looks like hes falling asleep at his desk in boredom.

    Seizing my chance before the bosses return again, I lift my legs to my chest. Pressing my back against my pod for resistance, I bring my feet to the glass in front of me and push. Barely using any of my strength, the glass shatters outwards.

    The amber liquid pours across the floor and the guard fall from his chair in surprise. Before he can climb to his feet I charge forward on unsteady legs. Calling on my years of chasing piglets, I hop over the desk with ease.

    As he reaches for his holstered fancy pistol, I crash into him with both feet. I can hear his ribs crack unpleasantly from the impact as he slams into the floor. Fearing the worst, I check for a pulse. I find one thankfully and the well dressed guard is groaning weakly on the floor.

    “I'm not a murderer, that's good.” I mutter to myself in relief. Searching him for anything of use, I find his tiny silver gun and a key card. Once I have both in hand, I Take advantage of my chance to learn what the hell is going on. Turning to the still open computer, I sit down in front of it and begin looking into what’s really going on.

    It only has a few albums of pictures and a few ongoing journals. One album is labeled Project Lobotomy, while the other is called Project Phantom. Flipping a coin in my head, I go with Lobotomy first.

    Inside are a six pictures that paint an unsettling scene. The first shows me what looks like a round blue egg with wings. It fell from the air crashing through a forest canopy and into a hillside. The damage to the craft is small and bloody foot prints leading away, shows their was a survivor. The time stamp shows this was taken in March 1976.

    The second, is a picture of a live action version of Mark Hamill’s Joker. It’s a mugshot of him grinning maniacally towards the camera. The date displayed is September 1st,1984. I'm really confused now. What, is the doctor a fan of comics?

    I gag when I see the Joker again in the third picture. He’s been torn in half and his head is lying beside him, a Batarang in the wood near the body. I click faster now, showing the fourth picture is of Harley Quinn. The picture taken on December 24th, 1990. The Joker died on my birthday? that’s pretty cool.

    Harlequin is wearing the whole jester get up and everything from the Batman Animated Series, except she looks like a disturbed ten year old. This picture is dated at October 31st, 1999. Hoping not to see another body, I continue in trepidation.

    Picture five is another Joker cosplay, dated at July 29th, 2007. This guy looks like the version from the new The Batman show, the whole wild man Rastafarian version. He’s in an empty glass cell suspended in complete blackness. It kind of looks like a unicorn is in another cell beside him. That is strange.

    Six is of Lobo, this one is dated for December 28th, 2009. Again the real life version of a cartoon character which is really weird, I have to still be dreaming. I had seen him from the Justice League cartoon when Superman was sent to the future. He’s floating in a tank of yellow fluid kind of like I was not long ago.

    Lobo is also wearing the same jumpsuit I am but he has waist length ebony dreadlocks floating behind him. And I have--. I reached up to calm my growing suspicions only to find the displayed hairstyle growing from my head.

    My only way to learn more is on the computer so I return to it. Today’s date is January 1st, 2010 and its nine thirty PM. I’m really going to have to read the files instead of skimming pictures to learn anything useful. Why there’s pictures of Harley and the Joker, I have no idea.

    Reading the entries, leaves me with answers I don’t like all so much. An entity who became known as the Joker crashed and went on a crime spree for years. After a battle with Batman in a sawmill, he was pushed onto a conveyor belt. The saw’s the joker went into, severing him at the waist and neck.

    The head regrew, becoming the one known as Joker Jr. whose actions so far, have him acting nearly the same as his father. He has been contained in a separate facility once he was captured.

    His torso and lower halves also regrew, each into a new unique body and personality. Harlequin is much less effective so far, leaving us free to observe her actions in the wild safely. She was grown from the torso of the Joker.

    We claimed the body grown from the waist down. Hoping to increase the weapons effectiveness, we infused Project Lobotomy with DNA from Project Phantom. Lobotomy has become much strong and has an estimated strength in the range of thirty tons. This is greatly superior to his family’s barely above baseline human strength.

    His DNA was likewise infused into Project Phantom, the regeneration has been doing wonders to stabilize the bizarre effects of being raised in the Phantom Zone.

    So far, the project’s regeneration has caused two Starro to die from exhaustion. Fortunately, the third Starro's memory implants are working better. It is merging the fragmented knowledge of the earlier two attempts and the genetic memory of the Joker has been nearly completely suppressed.


    I stop reading and frown in concern. Is this really saying my memories of my entire life are fake? I’m not even the first version they tried? I'm Kyle three point oh. Hell, is Kyle even really my name then?

    I can remember watching versions of superheros on TV and reading about them in comics. Why are these files acting like it’s all real? Are they? I guess the cartoons I saw didn't always show heroes in the best light. I guess my brain was interpreting the stuff they wanted me to know about the heroes as cartoons and comics.

    Trying to focus on any memory of these is bringing me contrary versions with drastically different art styles. I'm going to have to deal with this once I'm out of here. Right. Escape now, crumble to tears over my identity crisis later.

    With the beginnings of a plan forming, I try to decide what to do about my roommate in the other pod. I jump in shock when a snide voice crackles over an intercom.

    “Project Lobotomy, your up early.” the voice pauses for a second before ordering me with bored disinterest. “Get back in your pod, Agent R will be by soon to fix it.” I look around the room for a camera to address but find none. Being forced to shout at the ceiling, I defy the voice.

    “I never listen when my parents or teachers tell me what to do, what makes you think you have a chance.” My declaration has the voice stop in consideration before answering me with finality.

    “Fine then I need you alive for Mr. Luthor’s tasks.” His sneering voice is joined by hissing from across the room. The fluid inside the still filled pod is draining rapidly. Inside the glass tank, the Starro’s eye locks on to me. The human it is on top of opens his eyes and stares me down in tandem with his parasite.

    “Project Phantom, Deal with the unruly one as you see fit. I need him alive but barely breathing is still alive.” the voice goes cold in its hate towards me for daring to disobey. “Make it hurt.” and with those words my new opponent rushes across the room faster then a car.

    Barely able to react in time even with reflex’s twice as fast as I remember, I meet his charging form with a grapple. He is way stronger then me however, forcing me backwards and smashing my spine through the computer and desk behind me.

    On my back with the well muscled body of Project Phantom kneeling on my chest, I am fed mighty punch after mighty punch with mechanical precision to my face. I may still have a couple teeth left and I can kinda see through one of my swollen eyes but this really hurts. And I have only been in a few fights before this, I need to do something fast or I am done for.
     
    Last edited: Sep 7, 2020
  3. Threadmarks: Chapter 2: Project Phantom
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 2: Project Phantom​

    ?????
    Jan 01/2010
    09:45 PM

    Blinded by my own blood and swollen eyes, I frantically grasp above. With the last of my strength, I am able to grasp a fleshy tentacle between my fingers. Determined not to die here and now, I pull with all my strength.

    With a wet squelch, the Starro is ripped from my assailant’s skull. Almost instantly, the powerful blows to my face cease. As I feebly wipe the blood from face, my pain rapidly vanishes. Standing in a panic, the ebony haired teen begins to speak.

    “What’s going on?” His voice is desperate and stilted. From my place on the floor, I can him see staring at his blood covered hands in horror. “I don’t know why I was hitting you.” He gasps when he finally gets a good look at what he did to my face. “Oh god, I’m so sorry.”

    His guilt is palpable in the air, leaving the tension in the room thick enough to cut with a bowl. I don’t feel as bad as I did even a few seconds ago, seems like I really do have regeneration.

    “Dude, it’s cool.” I call up to the panicking Project Phantom. “You were being controlled by this.” I hold up the Dead Starro as I climb to my feet shakily. He gives it a look of pure loathing. “What’s the last thing you remember?” I ask, trying to find some information.

    “Had a new years party at my friends last night.” His words are slow and measured as he tries to think. “Left Kyle’s around three in the morning, walked home and crashed.” Wait what? I had a party last night.

    “Who are you?” I ask with cautious optimism. My response comes a few seconds later.

    “Zach.” With those words I begin laughing like a fool. Zach’s face is screwed up in confused irritation at my antics.

    “Dude, It’s me. Kyle” Finally understanding. he smiles and finally accepts the bear hug I’m trying to give him. He looks me over once I let him go and smirks.

    “You really bulked up. Not a scrawny little broomstick anymore.” His tone is mocking but I know hes as freaked out as I am. Sticking out my tongue, I cheekily blow a raspberry at him. It ends up splattering him in my bloody spit to my amusement.

    “And you still look like a redneck with that mullet.” I retort back, happy to find some form of familiarity at last. “Something really messed up is going on.” He snorts at my understatement. “I don’t even know if our brains got implanted or our bodies got changed.” I throw up my hands in frustration. “You smashed me through the computer before I could figure very much out.”

    “I said sorry already, sheesh.” He gets defensive, when he assumes I'm blaming him and not the situation. Our reunion is cut short by Stockman’s patronizing voice, once again coming over the loudspeaker.

    “Project Phantom, you failed.” The voice goes colder still, if that’s even possible. “This is your last chance to return to your pods before I have to get serious.” Zach grins at me fer ally hearing this and I nod back in agreement.

    “I’m going to feed you your spleen, you sack of crap!” My friend bellows at the ceiling. I grab whats left of the laptop and rush for the elevator doors behind him. Stockman seems unsuprised when he answers the challenge.

    “Very well. Prepare for conditioning.” With those final menacing words, Stockman’s voice cuts out. Were able to access the elevator easily with my pilfered card key. I pull out my tiny silver pistol and step inside with Zach.

    Only three floors are marked on the wall panel, with us shown to be in the basement. I press the button to go up a floor.

    “Once we find the ground floor we got to get the hell out of here.” My words are calm even though I should not be feeling so chill with everything going on. It takes almost an entire minute to reach the next floor. We were really, really far down. When we slow to a stop, we wait for the doors to open.

    .
    .
    .

    Any minute now. Getting nervous, Zach begins tapping frantically at the open door button to no avail. A hiss from above our heads has me jump in shock. A mustard yellow gas is being pumped inside the elevator.

    I feel drowsy for a second but I’m able to shake it off this time. Zach’s new body is less resistant to the gas, causing his eyes to water. While he begins hacking a lung up, I desperately try to force the doors open manually.

    The coughs behind me have turned into sneezes. Looking back for a moment, I can only gasp in amazement. Whatever Project Phantom was, it gave Zach the ability to sneeze gout's of flame.

    Increasing in frequency and size, the fire has begin spreading across the walls of the elevator. Dangerous patterns of red and orange dance across the paint, swiftly engulfing the entire area in a deadly blaze. The flammable fumes ignite above our heads in an explosion the rocks us back and forth in the shaft.

    “Brace yourself!” Is all I have time to shout in horror before a creaking groan from above snaps the cable keeping us in the air. As we drop away from the ceiling, Zach and I both leap upwards for any hand hold.

    We find none and as I begin to descend again after the falling scrap metal, I see Zach floating in place. He has a look of amazement on his face which turns to horror when he sees me falling.

    Somehow hes able to instinctively turn himself around mid air and rocket after me. With his arms outstretched before him, he is able to gain on me quickly. grabbing me before I hit the piling of smoldering wreckage, I can only clap him on the back in relief.

    “Nice save dude.” I thank my friend gratefully. He smiles back and replies mockingly.

    “You fly like a tank.” His words are flat, needing no emphasis.

    “Yeah, Just call me the Incredible Falling Lad.” I joke back as we ascend the smoke filled elevator shaft midst the blaring of alarms. When we make it back to the doors we were at before, were left stumped.

    We try prying them open but can find nothing to grip onto. Zach looks down at me in contemplation before asking me curiously.

    “You have a hard head right?” I realize instantly what he means and begun shouting no, which he ignores. He floats backwards until were pressed against the far wall. Once were out of space he narrows his eyes and warns me. “Close your eyes.”

    I do in time to feel our bodies slam into the stainless steel doors. Instead of knocking ourselves out cold, we actually force the metal to warp and bend. The doors are durable enough to remain standing but a man sized opening has been created.

    Bright artificial light streams onto my face as I gaze into our new surroundings. Were in another circular room. This room is massive, nearly fifty feet in diameter. Its almost completely bare except for an enormous telescope pointed at the night sky. It fills a third of the room, in its position in the center.

    We aren’t alone either unfortunately. Five more guards are dressed in the same uniform as the guy downstairs. Along the walls are three waist thick pipes running up to a large glass aquarium of some. It contains some kind of pulsating pink ooze, the consistency of toothpaste.

    Our sudden entrance catches the guards somewhat off guard, allowing Zach to spin in place and toss me at them. I slam onto one of them, his head cracking against the hard floor. When he doesn’t stir I look up.

    Zach has engaged two of the men in boxing match. His speed and strength are able to overcome any training these well dressed goons have with ease. My musings are cut short when a loud ‘CHIRP’ screeches from behind me.

    Something powerful slams into my back, sending me flying forwards and crashing into the wall. Agony blossoms across my entire body as I pat myself down. My hands come away from my side sticky and red, revealing a gaping hole in my side. Is that my liver?

    My defeat does not last long. Almost instantly my pain vanishes once again and my wound begins to seal before my eyes. Flesh knits itself back together as if by magic. leaving me as good as new before my life even had time to finish flashing before my eyes.

    “Kyle!” I hear my name yelled in rage from across the room. Zach has dealt with his foes. One lays with a neck bent at an unnatural angle while the other is slumped against the wall. He blurs into motion, all I see is a streak of white race towards me.

    Another ‘CHIRP’ announces a blast of blue energy. It strikes the form of my friend center mass but does nothing to slow him down. He barrels past me and slams the shooter into and partially through the wall.

    Standing unharmed in an observatory filling with smoke, my friend roars in defiance at those responsible. His white unitard has a burnt window exposing his chest, displaying his unmarked skin beneath.

    The final guard stares at both of us, his jaw wide open in fear at the powers we had displayed. Choosing not to face Zach’s rage, he turns and flees out the front door. Zach watches him go with a frown, his eyes seeming to track the runner even on the other side of the wall.

    Finally he smiles, a decision made. He cracks his knuckles and marches toward to base of the telescope. He inhales as deeply as he can before exhaling a torrent of blue flame from his mouth. It melts the metal instantly allowing Zach to strain against the weight of semi truck sized telescope.

    He barely seems to strain with the effort as he rises into the air. Winding back like were in football, he throws the telescope forward and out of the building. Seconds later it crashes into the water with a thunderous ‘SPLASH’ felt even this far away.

    ‘CRAAACCCKK’ sounds out from above us, heralding a new danger. Looking up, shows the glass containing the sludge has shattered. Shards of glass and dog sized globs of rancid ooze rains down around us.

    The mass of pink tar crashes onto me and buries me beneath its weight. Struggling to stand in the adhesive substance, I can only twitch in irritation. It begins to burn through my leggings and into my skin painfully.

    Zach is doing better, he was able to stay airborne and avoid most of the sludge. Or at least he had. The ooze has formed car sized hands, five in total. Each has three stubby fingers not well sited for dexterous tasks like grabbing a flying teen.

    His occasional burp of flame, will bake a portion of the ooze. This doesn’t slow it down for long, simply smashing off the hardened area and regrowing from the lake of ooze all over the floor. My struggles are noticed by the goo, a group of beady spider like eyes forming before me.

    Watching my struggle, the eyes show delight at my pain. Swelling around me, ooze begins forming an impenetrable cocoon around me. Once it has my arms immobilized and begins to creep up my neck, I really start panicking.

    “Hey! Get out of here before it grabs you to man.” My cry is ignored by Zach, instead he makes an attempt to free me. A heroic but futile attempt. Once his hands touch the ooze covering me, it jumps onto him and spreads.

    Rapidly covering him, tendrils rise up from the ground and wrap around him. Neither of our struggles seem to being anything but tiring us out. I can’t believe I'm going to die drowning in this cesspit.

    Healing does nothing against drowning as far as I know. I get superpowers and die the same day, how awesome am I? The ramblings of my dying mind decide to add earsplitting ‘SCREEEEE’s for some reason. Maybe it’s Stockman gloating over the loud speaker again?

    The next shriek is followed by a wave of force slamming into my shell. It cracks and crumbles around me, revealing our saviors. In a bulkier version of the cape less black skin tight mech suit from Batman Beyond, is Batman.

    His fierce gaze is focused on the enemy for now, his body tense and ready for action. The only color on his suit is a red membrane on his under arms, a gliding wing of some kind, and a crimson bat logo on his chest.

    His sidekick is in a near identical outfit although her uniform is accented by yellow instead of red. She is screeching, directing visible sound waves all around the sea of goo. I’m clearly an after thought for now. The ooze has completely ignored me to go after the ones who have actually managed to annoy or injure it instead.

    That won’t do. No one ignores me unless I want them to. I grit my teeth and decide on a stupidly awesome course of action. I draw my shiny little futuristic gun and take careful aim.

    “Everyone get ready to run!” And with those words, I fire the powerful peashooter into the ceiling a dozen times. The building begins crumbling around us, as the supports are destroyed.
     
  4. Threadmarks: Chapter 3: The Flying Graysons
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 3: The Flying Graysons

    Cadmus Observatory
    Bludhaven Bay
    Jan 01/2010
    10:37 PM
    My rash decision to bring down the building, had mixed results. We barely made it outside without being crushed by falling debris but nearly twenty minutes of careful observation, revealed no more living ooze.

    Batman had taken the remains of the laptop, pilfered from the room I woke in. He was trying to learn more then my brief description could explain, while we watched the rubble. Batgirl narrows her eyes when I mention my heritage and decides to spend the twenty minutes watching me instead.

    “Green Arrow and Dove will host you for tonight.” Batman’s gruff voice appears behind me, his approach unnoticed. My startled jump is ignored by him, choosing instead to direct us down to the beach were the Batplane is parked.

    “Who says we need your help?” Zach defiantly challenges. Batgirl really does not like that, aggressively stepping towards him with her finger raised towards his chest.

    “Alright smart guy, How much longer would you have lasted without us?” Zach can only scowl at that reply. “As far as were concerned we have the Joker’s kid and a Kryptonian.” Her words go hard and cold. “Last time we had Kryptonian’s with your powers.” She clenches her fist remembering the event. “We got invaded and lost a lot of good people.”

    “Oh.” Is all Zach can respond with, his voice has gone quiet in embarrassment. “I guess it makes sense to make sure then.” I can only agree with this, were clearly not in charge of the situation.

    “We get that your victims.” Batman cuts back into the conversation ending the discussion. “But you admitted they were trying to program you. Once your cleared, we can try integrating you into society.” He gestures to the impressively sleek jet on the sand before us. “Get in.”

    It’s a tight fit inside the top of the line cockpit. four black leather chairs sit in a row, which we all slide into. Once we strap in, the glass cover slides over our heads. We lift off the beach silently, rising into the cloudy night sky.

    “What kind of memories were they implanting?” Batman questions once were in the air. I consider this an answer.

    “Our whole lives.” gathering my courage I admit to myself and the Bat family. “They programmed an entire life where we grew up together. I’m Kyle.” I introduce myself. “Or Project Lobotomy as they named me. And apparently I was grown from the lower half of the Joker.” My admission has Zach choking on laughter.

    “So you really are a butt head then!” His glee at my situation is so genuine, even I begin to laugh.

    “I was only able to learn your called Project Phantom and they mixed our DNA to enhance us both.” He considers my words before declaring.

    “Blood brothers then.” Happily I agree with him. My limited knowledge has dried up, ending my explanation. Batgirl gives us a weird look.

    “You two really mind me of Zach and Kyle from ‘Smokey Valley’.” Her words end our amusement.

    “Never heard of it. What’s it about?” I ask her what she means.

    “A stoner comedy from the eighties. A high school grad class has hi-jinks in a valley of hippies, rednecks, and Russians.” My blood runs cold and I stare at Zach in horror.

    “That sounds scarily familiar.” Zach stutters out finally for us both.

    “It’s easier to have a base to work off of.” Batman adds with his gravely voice. “Seems like your memories were based off characters from the movie instead being original creations.”

    “We can’t be characters from a movie!” Zach yells with some heat. “You are!” Batman meets his gaze evenly, while the auto pilot handles the trip.

    “That’s what they made you believe.” His words have me reconsidering everything I know in silence for the rest of the trip.

    .
    .
    .
    .
    .


    Batplane
    Star City
    Jan 01/2010
    11:03 PM
    We soar over the glittering lights of Star City and quickly begin angling downwards. On the edge of the city lays an expanse of swampland. Slaughter Swamp stretches into the mountains miles away.

    A few clearings, one with a deadly looking green, yellow, and red space craft begin to reveal them selves. It has angled wings that curve forward and strike a fearsome profile from above. Three figures are present, watching our descent through a dome of blue energy.

    Nothing happens as we land, the force field bypassed somehow. The tallest figure watching us approach, looks like robin hood. Hes blonde with a forked beard and cocky grin. A longbow is strapped to his back beside a quiver of fancy looking arrows.

    His female companion is of a similar age, both are around forty. She however, carries her years with more grace. A red headed women with tan wings watches us with narrowed eyes. Her white and blue uniform looks good on her toned body. She begins to sing her mace dangerously when she catches us looking.

    The final member of our welcoming party, is Robin but he has scarlet hair like his mother to match his crimson wings. Instead of a single weapon, he has a pair of hand held cross bows strapped to his waist.

    He at least looks happy to see some more aliens. Finally a welcome face. Green Arrow because I recognize him from a few episodes of Justice League Unlimited, greets us once were all on the ground.

    “Found some strays did ya?” His Irish accent, is a surprise to me. Batman nods while Zach huffs at our description. I consider it an apt description, with what we’ve learned tonight.

    “yeah and your shield should keep Cadmus from finding them.” He looks Zach and I over in consideration for a moment before adding. “Or stop them from wreaking havoc like their families have.”

    “So you brought possible enemies to my home who may have someone sent to bring them back by force?” Dove’s voice is sweet but filled with the threat of violence if she is unhappy with her answer.

    “...Yes.” Is the eventual reply from the Dark Knight. Her whole face changes into an expression of pure glee.

    “Awe Bruce, it’s not even my birthday for another three weeks.” Her voice is full of excitement as she turns to me. “I’m Shayera and this is my Husband Oliver.” Green arrow waves when he’s mentioned.

    “Yo.” His voice is calm and easy going. “Glad you two managed to get out of Cadmus’ hands.” His son can’t wait any longer and butts in.

    “Yeah.” Vibrating with rage his voice rises. “Those creeps have been popping up all over the world, doing experiments on people like us.” People like us? Oh yeah, aliens. “Were looking for another lab in Nevada. You two should totally come with.” His excitement withers under his mothers unimpressed look. “Once you pass mom’s training that is.”

    “Better.” She’s amused at his embarrassment, leaning over to ruffle his short hair playfully. “If you want I can put you through your paces.” She offers. “Only way anyone living under my roof is allowed in the field.”

    “I need to get back to the cave, see what I can get from the files.” Bruce interrupts. “I’ll bring the girls by tomorrow once I know something.” Batgirl glares at me in warning.

    “You better be on you best behavior here.” Her words a menacing growl. “See you tomorrow Roy.” Her voice instantly warm and friendly as she addresses the teen who seems to be around fifteen. He confirms her words happily,. With a final wave, her and her father climb back into the Batplane and rise into the foggy night sky.

    Robin steps between us, throwing an arm around each of Zach and I’s shoulders.

    “Now that the grumps are gone, we can relax.” He offers warmly. “I’m Roy Queen, welcome to ‘The Flying Grayson Bird Sanctuary’.” Zach grunts in confusion.

    “Who are the Grayson’s then?” We get a chuckle from Shayera who explains.

    “My dad and I.” She throws her husband a warm smile. “At least until I married this fool.” Her husband mock pouts at her words. “Now let’s get you two cleaned up and into some new clothes.” Zach fingers the burnt hole in the chest of his white jumpsuit and agrees.

    ‘GURGLE’ Is the echoing interruption of my stomach as it declares its hunger. Roy laughs and adds.

    “Maybe some food as well.” His words are chilling at the implication. “Who knows how long it’s been since they ate food.” I shudder at the thought and agree.

    “Food would be awesome thank you.”

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    .
    .
    .


    Flying Grayson Bird Sanctuary
    Slaughter Swamp, Star City
    Jan 02/2010
    12:18 AM
    I spend so long washing all the gunk from my body, the water has long gone cold. Drying blood and bits of goo are rinsed from my dreadlocks, running down the drain in a swirl of rusty red water.

    I slip on the offered flannel pajamas. They have a plaid pattern of green and red, very Christmas. I take a final long look at my face in the mirror. My body is huge compared to what I’m used to. Several times I have bumped into someone, unused to my bulk.

    I have red eyes set in a massive square skull. I have a powerful jaw and coarse black stubble runs all across my chin. Broad shoulders strain against my borrowed clothes and the pants are more like Capris.

    I was always a pale guy but I look like porcelain colored in with Sharpie. The black star over my left eyes reminds me of KISS. I have patterns of black tiger stripes across the backs of my arms and the fronts of my legs.

    Across my entire torso, front and back is dozens of inky black rains drops, peppering my body with what looks like drops of black rain. I sigh in exhaustion. I may have only been awake for a few hours but I feel like my brain has never actually been asleep.

    Rallying my nerves I finally emerge from the relative safety of the pink bathroom. Robin and Zach are wait outside, leaning against the Rope railing surrounding the high tech tree house.

    “Took ya long enough princess.” Zach teases me in his borrowed black jogging pants and white muscle shirt.

    “Well I had a bunch of blood to wash off.” My retort silences him, remembering he’s partially to blame. Sensing the tension, Roy cuts in.

    “Lets go grab you two some food.” Were left no choice, when he begins pushing on our backs. Were lead across one of the many wooden bridges, suspended by rope from the countless trees that climb into the sky as high as redwood’s.

    One of the bigger tree houses is our destination. A beautiful log cabin made of red cherry wood, rests in the branches of the mighty tree. The rustic look from the outside, conceals a high tech interior.

    A top of the line kitchen takes up over half the room. A dinning table with a dozen bar stools and a wall mounted flat screen are the only other items in the room. The walls are some kind of high tech metal, the incandescent sheen is really trippy to look at.

    Dove is in her fluffy white custom bathrobe. With her wings poking out the back she kind of looks like an angel.

    “Dude, your mom is hot.” Zach whispers to Roy. Shayera’s sharp gaze turning to him and smirking, lets us know it wasn’t quiet enough. We shuffle into the dining room awkwardly. “Sorry.” Zach apologizes to Mrs. Queen, who wave it off with a laugh.

    “Don’t worry, I know I am.” She winks at Robin cheekily. “How else do you think I nabbed myself a billionaire.” She changes the subject, her teasing of us done for now. “Grab some leftovers and Roy can show you to the guest house. Have a good night and we can talk more tomorrow.” We wave goodnight, grateful the situation turned out alright.

    Roy serves us both a plate of reheated ham and potatoes, I turn down the offered pumpkin soup but Zach slurps it down. He lets us dig in to our meal in silence, only questioning us when we finish.

    “So what do you think? Want to go after Cadmus with Batgirl, Speedy, and I?” His excited tone makes him seem younger than the sixteen year old he was revealed to be. Zach and I don’t even need to look at each other, speaking in unison.

    “You Know it dude.” My voice is firm.

    “Try Stopping me.” Zach declares with conviction.

    Roy smiles and nods.

    “Good.” He grins mischievously. “Now Artemis sent me a text. It said you guys think your from a movie?” When we awkwardly shrug and confirm his question, he grins. Even wider.

    “Were going to watch it before we go to bed. It’s hilarious.” I can only feel some kind of karmic retribution at the fact that the people I thought were cartoons, have seen my life in movies.
     
    Snake21 likes this.
  5. Threadmarks: Chapter 4: Nature Walk
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 4: Nature Walk
    Flying Grayson Bird Sanctuary
    Slaughter Swamp, Star City
    Jan 02/2010
    11:25 AM
    My slumber is interrupted by the yells of combat from below me. A female’s aggressive voice is screaming war cries at someone who silently fights back. I try to flip myself off my bed, only to tangle myself in the hammock I’m in.

    I take a few minutes to settle my racing heart as the events of last night wash over me. The movie last night was freakishly accurate about so many things. I still can’t decide whats real.

    Below me snoring away peacefully, is Zach. Sometime during the night he began floating a foot above his hammock. He looks like a normal human mode and he can fly, what the hell?

    I stew at the unfairness of life for a while. Zach’s probably really a clone of Superman or something awesome like that. Wait a second, his DNA was infused into me. Maybe I can fly.

    Daring to hope, I carefully untangle myself from the ropes. Calling on all my experience of how to fly, namely think happy thoughts, I commit to my attempt.

    Throwing myself into the middle of the room I focus on how awesome it was to fly in the Batplane last night. For a second I can believe it worked. But only a second.

    Before I have time to even flap, I plummet to the floor. A solid ‘Thump’ has the sparring bellow stop momentarily, only to resume once I make no more noise. Zach, was able to ignore my embarrassing fall.

    “Stupid flying.” I mutter to myself in frustration. Staggering to my feet, I walk to to window overlooking the swampland. Trees that clearly are not from Earth, cover the domed sanctuary. Some trees are easily ten stories high, while others range down to a more reasonable five stories.

    Four main varieties are visible. The tallest ones, have a blood red bark, the texture of a birch tree. Massive sprawling branches that contain the suspended cabins are joined by a score of inter connected rope bridges. They have gorgeous white leaves that resemble maple leaves.

    All around the creek bank and handful of ponds I can see, is what look like Willow trees. These are four times the size of normal Earth ones however. The bark is a tarry black shade, while the leaves are a deep shiny indigo.

    The smallest trees, the fifty foot ones, are covered in a sickly yellow bark. Brown thorns cover the surface. They have orange leaves, concealing some kind of large red fruit that resembles a pineapple.

    The final alien tree is in the middle of the sizes. It has standard brown bark but its covered in red vines. Each vine carries bunches of berries, making a colorful view in the sunlight. These tree’s, have palm fronds of a magnificent pink sheltering the berries.

    Clothes have been left of again for us. This morning I get to wear a pair of black workout pants and a gray T shirt. I have been given a pair of custom made dark green boots, I have idea how they were finished in a few hours and without sizing me.

    They only look green in direct light, any other time appearing a solid black. Its not leather but some kind of similar material.

    “Must be Thanagarian.” I comment to no one before dressing myself. Climbing down the rope ladder outside my front door, I greet the chilly winter day. I can see the combatants below, are Dove and Robin. Green Arrow however, is nowhere to be seen.

    Robin is blindfolded in the middle of a dirt clearing. He is balanced on post maybe six inches across. His mother is flying literal circles around him and tossing egg sized rocks at him. His body is covered in welts and cuts but he never quits.

    Seeing him in action is a big difference from his attitude last night. He is focused and level headed, refusing to fall for any of his mothers taunts. He his dual crossbows in hand, firing arrows with blunted tips back at her.

    Each consecutive shot of Robin’s, comes closer and closer to his foe. Instead of being upset when he finally scores a direct hit giving her a bloody nose, she smiles and cheers encouragement.

    With his goal accomplished after what looks like nearly an hour judging by how many stones surround him, Roy removes his green blindfold. Panting with exertion, he wipes sweat from his from and calls up to me cheerfully.

    “Hey! How did you sleep. “I don’t have a chance to reply before he asks another question immediately. “Pretty Overwhelming view in the daylight right?” Mrs. Queen is interested in my response as well, looking at me with focused green eyes.

    “Yeah, its magnificent.” I pause, unsure of my boundaries before asking anyway. “Your going to have to show me and Zach around once he gets up.” Roy gleefully agrees while his mom takes her chance to address me. Bruce, Diana, and Clark will be coming over around six tonight to figure everything out.”

    “Why is she being so being so blase about everyone’s secret identities?” I think to myself. In fact she said Batman’s name last night too.

    “Because to be on the Legion of Super Heroes, we all had to publicly reveal our identities.” Her answer lets me know I said that out loud. “Once the World Republic finished dotting its I’s and crossing its T’s, the Justice League and similar groups were given the choice whether to remain regional or go public.” Ok that explanation is creating even more questions.

    “World Republic?” I ask confused.

    “Well after Eleven alien invasions in a century, the nations worldwide decided it was for the best.” Shayera rationalizes for me.

    “China was wiped completely off the map by Rann.” Roy adds proudly. “It’s why Mom and Grandpa are loved so much in Asia. Grandpa Hawk lead his Patrol ship after the invasion fleet.” He’s hopping in excitement now. “He snuck ahead of them and warned Earth. Him and his crew held off the landing party long enough for twenty three million Chinese people to evacuate.

    Okay wow, I was not expecting something so heavy. I really need to know what else is different from my knowledge of Earth’s history. Only one way to find out.

    “Did anywhere else get hit as bad?” I ask dreading the answer. Robin stops hopping as he frowns.

    “Yeah, we lost California and Oregon to the White Martians in the eighties.” His voice is steady as he lists major tragedies to me. “Russia and north eastern Europe were hit hard by Zod’s Kryptonian’s in ninety six. Brazil is half flooded still after Plankton and his army landed offshore.”

    He snaps his fingers remembering a few more big ones. “Oh and and Egypt is a literal dead zone ever since Imhotep woke up.”

    “Yes and that was why my father’s crew was searching this sector in the first place.” She sighs and explains further. “Imhotep was a Thanagarian Warlord who tried to over throw our Home world twelve thousand years ago.” She shudders at the thought, so Robin takes over for her.

    “Yeah the worm fled with a top of the line ship.” He scowls at the cowardice. “And our worlds entire order of Sorcerer Priests went with him.” With an amused chuckle, he adds. “He’s our families worst embarrassment but he did successfully bring worship of our gods to Earth.”

    “He deprived our world of magic for thousands of years.” His mother interrupts sharply. “He is the reason we are so reliant on our alchemical Nth metal. Without it we would have lost to the Necromancers of Rann centuries ago.”

    “Father came here with his siblings and cousins to finally remove our mark of shame and restore our nobility.” She admits with anger in voice. “We are as good as exiled without the artifacts he stole reclaimed.”

    “I know, sorry for bringing it up mom.” Roy apologizes quietly. She exhales sharply before grabbing him in a tight hug, all forgiven. And now I'm uncomfortable with the family tenderness, remembering how alone I really am.

    My melancholy barely lasts a few seconds before I shrug it off. What’s the use feeling bad about losing things that were never real?

    In fact I should try and enjoy my life while I can, I may wake up tomorrow in a different life. Or worse, cease to exist suddenly when my body heals the brain damage Cadmus inflicted.

    “You said if I trained with you I could go on the Cadmus mission with Robin?” I ask, interrupting the tender moment. Shayera steps away from her son after a moment and regards me carefully. Her stern examination of me feels like an X ray to my soul.

    “Yeah, need to make sure you aren't a liability.” Her words are measured and firm.

    “And can carry your own weight.” Robin chirps at me. I frown back at his challenge.

    “I intend to.” My words have more confidence then I feel. Seeing how bruised he is with all his training, I can tell Dove will not be peaceful with me. She grins feraly and acknowledges my request.

    “Once the meeting is over tonight. Me and Ollie can see what your made of.” I shudder at how menacing her words sound before retorting back awkwardly.

    “Well I saw what my ribs looked like last night and maybe my liver, I’m not sure.” They have shocked looks of disgust at my admission. “”Does that count?” Shayera laughs at my blasé attitude.

    “Were going to get along fine. Now go have some fun I'll send sleepy head after you when he wakes up.” She orders, waving us off towards to boardwalk. I don’t wait for her to change her mind, jogging towards it immediately.

    “Let’s go!” I call out behind me, not really caring if he decides to follow or not. He explained last night how the perimiter was secured by a force field and covered an area of four hundred square miles.

    The bird sanctuary was gifted to his father, Katar Grayson when he helped save the world. It was undesirable land, Slaughter swamp filling the land between Star City and Gotham. Many criminals had used the land as a place to dump bodies and waste of any kind.

    Roy follows behind me, flying along with nearly no sound. Mosquitoes swarm about but to my happy surprise, they drop dread shorty after flying away from me. I choose to ignore this and step off the boardwalk with Roy’s permission.

    A winding stream leads to a shallow pond, shoreline covered in bulrushes. Its right on the edge of the energy barrier. The contrast of Earth wildlife only separated from alien trees and strange violet grass. Bushes in shades of red, yellow, and orange dot the interior landscape.

    What looks like green ducklings follow their mother in a lazy circle while a reddish muskrat like creature, emerges onto the bank and shakes itself dry. Watching me from a tree branch is a flock of birds in Robin’s coloring. The songbirds look striking with the mix of red, green, yellow, and black plumage.

    For the first time since I woke up and learned my life is a lie, I feel calm and almost at peace with myself. Following the trail under an overhanging alien willow tree, I emerge into a clearing full of black Lilies, white Poppies, and red Lilacs surrounding a small spring.

    An elegant blueish black heron like thing stands stock still in the center of the clear water, stabbing at the water with its silver beak. Dozens of orange and gold speckled fish swim about its feet, jumping at the dragonflies skating across the ponds surface.

    I lower myself to the ground and lean back against the sturdy red tree. I raise my gaze from the indigo Lotus’ dotting the water and watch the force field flicker wherever a bug or leaf touches it. I let the sound of animals all around me wash over me, their desperation to get laid always makes me feel less pathetic.

    A large form moving through the thicker vegetation of the swampland draws my notice. Walking towards us and coming to a stop on the other side of the barrier is a massive figure.

    Almost nine feet tall, the creature is green and covered in vine like veins. It looks like a collection of plant matter and muck, molded into a vaguely humanoid shape.

    Glowing yellow eyes pierce into my form, evaluating me for any flaws. Minutes pass with both of us motionless, my bones scream at me to flee or burn everything insight. This thing can kill us, if it chooses to.

    I resist my screaming instincts, forcing them down with all my willpower. I out stubborned a DVD player, or at least I remember doing so. forty five minutes of open and close before I could finally watch Toy story 2 means I will keep the pieces of Joker inside me from ever coming to the surface.

    The Manic grin which threatened to take over my face washes away in the face of my determination. I remember sitting at the kitchen table until my dad woke up the next morning for work. I wasn’t allowed to leave the table until I ate my dinner. So I did not leave the table all night, scared my dad would punish me but determined not to eat the borscht.

    Tension slips from my body as minutes pass, turning into over an hour with none of us breaking eye contact. The creature going cockeyed to stare us both down. Finally we pass this green man’s test, seeming to accept I am different from the Clown of Chaos and Robin belongs here.

    It’s eyes close and its form shifts. Cracks spread across its body and it breaks apart, its mass rejoining the swamp as it’s attention is drawn elsewhere.

    Releasing the breath I hold in my lungs I close my eyes and enter a trance like state. I’m Unable to sleep so soon after waking but mentally drained from my experiences today.

    I hear Roy shakily say goodbye, he will be back later if I get lost out here. I don’t blame him, that was very eerie but for some reason I feel fine, happy even. Maybe passing its soul searching gaze meant more for my mental well being then I realized.

    Whatever the reason, I can’t deny the results. I sit here for hours, enjoying the warm light across my face and the cool breeze in my hair.
     
  6. Threadmarks: Chapter 5: This is Not an Interrogation
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 5: This is Not an Interrogation​
    Flying Grayson Bird Sanctuary
    Slaughter Swamp, Star City
    Jan 02/2010
    5:45 PM

    I was given a few hours to myself once Roy left. I enjoyed them to their fullest, taking in the alien wildlife all around me. He did return with Zach to grab me for lunch eventually. It was a quick meal of some kind of fish, it had a very spicy taste.​

    Zach laughed at Robin’s bruises, leading us back to the training yard for the rest of the afternoon. The middle aged mother with barely above baseline strength, proceeded to embarrass both of us.​

    Her moves lacked either of our strength but while we could deliver a good tackle and throw a proper punch, really we knew nothing. Her Thanagarian martial art style was able to dismantle any powerful moves we made with ease. avoiding our wind ups and countering every single time.​

    I learned once I take a few injuries, my body began to go numb for a while. This let me land a single punch to Dove’s side. I paid dearly for this, when she claimed one of my teeth as a prize, some tradition of her people where they claim a trophy of the first of every species they defeat.​

    We were given time to clean up before Batman and the others arrived for our ‘Not an interrogation’. New clothes again laid out by a returned Oliver Queen. Zach got a pair of black jeans and a white T shirt to go with his new cowboy boots and denim jacket.​

    I receive a set of clothing containing cargo shorts, a vest, and a safari hat from a laughing Green Arrow. Looking at myself in a mirror, it’s clear the beige clashes so horribly I Iook ridiculous.​

    I have nothing else, so this will have do do for now. I’ll get Roy to help me get payback on his dad later for this. I’m thinking of adding some kind of time delayed itching powder to his arrows.​

    Make sure it strikes once hes home from patrol and climbing into bed. I will have to warn his wife to have a headache that day however or I will really suffer. Shayera seemed sympathetic when she saw my clothes, I can probably get away with it.​

    Zach and the Queens are waiting for me in the conference cabin. It has a large wooden, triangle table in the center of the room. Four backless chairs, are arranged on each side of the table. One wall has a map of the world painted in very exquisite detail on its surface.​

    Across the room is a large flat screen monitor. Four smaller ones, with two on each side fill the entire wall. One wall is filled with dozens of photos. Images of more heroes then I can recognize over a time span of nearly fifty years cover that side of the cabin. The final wall is the one I entered just now, bare aside from the blue door and two oval windows overlooking the swamp.​

    Zach is looking at the map on the wall with Mr. Queen, discussing the differences I can now discern myself. Like where is Australia? I can’t fin Hawaii anywhere and I’m pretty sure there was a few countries between Mexico and South America. Not a Caribbean Sea that meets the Pacific Ocean. Antarctica is likewise absent from the map, only a handful of large islands were it and Greenland should both be.​

    It Looks like large areas of Africa, the Middle East, Europe, South America, and Canada are all underwater. I can see Star City on the coast of the inland Acadian Sea. Its on one side of Bludhaven Bay while Gotham City is across the water.​

    An island labeled Central City is halfway between both cities, connected by a bridge to both cities. A small island labeled Arkham is located along the coast of Slaughter Swamp. It’s almost smack dab in the middle of all three locations.​

    Metropolis is in Canada, Which throws me for a loop. On the East Coast shores of Newfoundland, is the city of Superman. I was always good at geography so I need to ask.​

    “Um, where is Australia?” My words interrupt the conversations already ongoing. No one answers me, only giving me blank looks of confusion. Pointing at the map where the landmass should be, I trace an outline of the missing continent. “You know kangaroos, spiders, and Didgeridoos?”​

    “Yeah I knew the map looked weird but I was distracted with the ocean in Canada.” Zach adds helpfully. Roy shakes his head and laughs at us.​

    “Man. They really did screw with your heads if your both so confused.” His words are playful, so I don’t need to give him a noogie like I would have one of my younger siblings. Good thing, his mom would have had to stop me. A new female voice interrupts from behind me.​

    “It’s concerning this Cadmus Organization has such a detailed location of Themyscira.” The voice is calm and forceful all at the same time. Twirling around, I’m presented with two figures. The speaker is the unmistakable Wonder Woman.​

    However instead of the classic armored bathing suit I was expecting, shes in a full set of armor. It’s a fusion between the swimsuit look and a full set of Spartan armor. The main coloring is Red and blue, with silver metal accentuating her look.​

    She Looks eternal in appearance, leaving me unable to even make a guess at her age. Her companion is no easier in that regard. In a dark green trench coat with a matching pair of nearly black green dress pants, is a faceless man.​

    He has a tie and hat, in the same green shade, only his dress shirt is a different color, a bright stainless white. The Question I believe his name is even if he has the wrong color of clothes.​

    “My people will have to look into this security breach after the meeting.” Wonder Woman decides firmly. The Black man with no eyes, mouth or nose nods in agreement.​

    <Reaching back to Ancient Egypt, there’s been a single cabal of powerful individuals directing the course of human history. It is likely they knew of Themyscira’s location before its concealment.> A voice echoes in my head silently. The voice is somehow twitchy and erratic even with no sound.​

    “Get out of my brain!” Zach’s angry yell is followed by his fist smashing against the reinforced wall. The man is able to display an expression of apology even with no features. A line distorts where a mouth would be on the black man’s face. Skin ripples and distorts, revealing a pair of lips that open.​

    “My apologies, I knew that would upset you.” He shrugs then finishes speaking with his jittery voice. “Had to be done. Your reactions, necessary.” Once his explanation is complete he slides into an empty chair and watches us all somehow.​

    The lack of any eyes is the really creepy part of him. When I think that, Question tilts his head in my direction and I get the impression of a wink in my mind. All of a sudden his forehead ripples like melting butter. A dozen compound fly eyes, yellow and reflective form across his brow.​

    “Better?” His voice is full of sick pleasure at everyone's discomfort. Well almost everyone. I barely had time to begin recoiling before I started appreciating the usefulness of the ability.​

    “Actually yes.” I admit, shocking everyone with my cheerful voice. “That is so cool.” I get an amused chuckle as the eyes melt away back into featureless skin.​

    “Stop scaring the kids J’onn.” Wonder Woman chides her comrade with an amused smile. Roy frowns at the description, while Zach mutters to himself.​

    “Who said I was scared?” We all ignore his denial, the several feet he had stepped back said enough. Superman is the next to arrive, Silver hair at his temples makes him look fatherly. He is wearing a cape less red body suit with a blue S on his chest.​

    With him is a brunette woman in revealing pinkish purple armor and kind of glowing. Her eyes are a solid violet color, which gives off a feeling of love when her eyes rest on me. She is middle aged like Superman, however her body does not show it.​

    Behind them is Batman and Batgirl. With them is a women in a wheelchair. Well hover chair. Some kind of Professor X chair of black high tech metal floats soundlessly somehow.​

    The blonde woman sitting in the advanced piece of equipment has a warm expression on her face as she jokes with her companion. She lacks a fancy costume, wearing a fancy navy blue pant suit and with an orange lens monocle on her face..​

    Batgirl greets Roy warmly with a half wave, while Zach and I get a stern look of distrust from her. Batman takes a seat at the table beside his wife, with their daughter on her other side. Superman and his wife claim chairs on the same side of the table as the Bat family.​

    The Question, joins the Queens and Wonder Woman on a second side, leaving Zach and I alone on the final side.​

    “And you said this wasn’t going to be an Interrogation.” Zach raises an eyebrow at the set up. The man of steel chuckles at the remark before opening the discussion.​

    “I promise you this isn’t.” His voice is placating and his hands raised calmly at the misunderstanding. “Batman found out enough to know the important things.” He gives us a reassuring smile as Batman takes over the discussion.​

    “Cadmus was in the process of giving you both artificial lives, based off of characters from a movie it seems.” His grim voice declares. “It seems to be incomplete. The memories implanted have not caught up to the current day.”​

    “Implying that the battle commands never had a chance to be inserted either.” The twitchy voice of the Question adds. He gets a nod from Batman who resumes his place.​

    “Correct. That was projected to begin by years end if all went according to plan.” His words set me at ease. I’m not going to be turned into a mindless assassin, that is good. His wife speaks up now, addressing Zach and I directly.​

    “This is about finding out what the two of you want from life.” Her warm words have me stumped but not Zach.​

    “Cadmus will end.” His words are final, brooking no argument. Dove smiles at this and savagely agrees.​

    “I put them through the paces today and they kept up.” Everyone looks shocked at her admitting such but those looks change to amused chuckles shortly. “For the first hour at least.” Her teasing tone is joined by a wink, removing some of the sting.​

    “Your wife is terrifying and I have a newfound respect for you after today.” Zach addresses Green Arrow with honest fear in his voice. “If anymore aliens are trapped in a lab like we were, they will be rescued.” Superman has an encouraging smile but Wonder Woman has to ruin the dramatic mood.​

    “And how will you do this?” The ageless warrior asks. “Were will you live? And how will you support yourselves?” Her questions bring the reality that were only staying at this amazing sanctuary short term, crashing down. “Most important, how will you keep Cadmus from reclaiming you?”​

    “With us.” Robin join the conversation with this firm declaration. “Well with Batgirl and Speedy and me I mean.” He adds defensively when he sees everyone looking his way. “Besides they can stay here, right?” Green Arrow and Dove give a noncommittal look, while Star Sapphire adds with a sultry tone.​

    “You always do say you wish more Kryptonian’s were on Earth.” The violet armored woman teases Superman. “We can always bring them home with us for a while. If Zach is a good fit he could even stay long term.” Superman contemplates her words while Robin adds more to his argument.​

    “Then Kyle can stay here.” His voice is eager in its desperation. “Swampthing gave it’s approval this morning anyway. I trust him.” Dove gives her agreement to her husband’s shock. I have been thinking all day about this so I better speak up now before it goes any farther.​

    “Um.” My voice is hesitant as I draw the attention of all these icons. “I’ve been thinking and I think I may as well embrace reality.” I get some sympathetic looks now. “I’m Project Lobotomy not Kyle. May as well go by my own name.” I forge ahead, before I lose my nerve. “Call me Lobo, Tommy Lobo.”​

    My statement is met by varying looks of acceptance around the table. Zach considers my words for a while before asking Batman.​

    “Well, do you know who I am?” His words are level but I can see his shoulders tense, expecting the worst. Batman takes a moment before the Question answers instead.​

    “You were recovered in the aftermath of Zod’s invasion.” Everyone turns to the faceless man at his words. “All evidence points to you being the son of General Zod and one of his wives.” Zach is confused, unsure of the names importance but aware it is.​

    “Yes, and being born in the Phantom Zone had effects on your physiology.” Batman retakes control of the debriefing with his gravely words. “Without Project Lobotomy’s DNA, your mental faculties would be drastically reduced.” He adds, almost as an after thought. “And your body would have broken down by the age of twenty five.”​

    “Your lucky.” The wheelchair bound woman adds. “All you seem to really have ended up with is a slightly reduced ability to store solar light. Your strength and speed are weaker by only fifteen to twenty percent.” Her words are all downside so far which sucks.​

    “But you never have to worry about Kryptonite.” Star Sapphire adds cheerfully. “It has zero effect on you. Cadmus checked. Really all you should notice day to day is a reverse in the heat vision and ice breath.” Zach frowns and asks directly.​

    “Do I have a name?” He gets a few awkward looks before someone finally answers.​

    “Only a last name.” Of course it was the Question, he has zero social skills.​

    “The Kryptonian version of your name would be Zak-Zod, with only one K.” Superman tries to be helpful. “And if you want I can bring you to the Fortress of Solitude later. We can get a better idea of whats going on with your genetics.”​

    And surprisingly he is. I was expecting aloof arrogance, not a cheerful support. Zak gives a cautious nod and accepts.​

    “Yeah and we should see what my DNA did to Butthead here.” He gestures to me while Robin snickers at my nickname.​

    “Well since we have that dilemma dealt with, I can go with the kids when they go after Cadmus.” He shrugs at everyone's looks of astonishment. “What? I have a stake in this too. Everyone IS out to get me.” his flippant tone is at odds with his serious words. “Besides I found the Nevada lab. I was going to go in alone anyway.” He looks us over with no eyes somehow. “I can work with them on this, they have proper motivation. Oh. And yes, I will ensure they return alive.” He adds at Doves stern look. “I mean relatively unharmed?”​

    “Better.” Shayera decides with a sharp voice. “I guess I will allow it.” Shakes her head in frustration. “Ra knows Roy will go anyway now that he knows where it is.” Her words are met by a commiserating laugh from the other parents and embarrassed fidgeting from Robin.​

    “Well I can get a hold of Speedy tonight and we can go after the lab tomorrow.” Roy chimes in, changing the subject away from his misbehavior. “We need a plan of attack we can all agree on before we go after Cadmus.” His caution is rewarded by a ruffling of his hair from his father who agrees.​

    “Good boy. Measure twice, shoot once.” His voice comes out in an amused Irish brogue. “Anyway. Now that we know their on the up and up, I can set them up with identities.” He gives his wife a warm smile, full of love. “Shayera still has major sway with the immigration office” He brags.​

    “Do that and get them some costumes made.” Batman orders. “A patrol or two would be a good idea first.” He addresses us all now. “Reschedule the attack for Monday. four days should give enough time for everyone to be able to work as a team.”​

    “Yeah. That does make more sense.” Robin admits with chagrin. And with that decided, the meeting devolves into an hour or more of ironing out the details. Were going to swing by the immigration office in the morning and Green Arrow will drop us off in Smallville once were done.



    Notes: Heres the end of the Prologue Arc. Next chapter will being going back to some action again. Toyman will make his debut as will Deathstroke and Katana with a little bit of Penguin. My versions of Starfire, Cheshire, Supergirl, M'gann, and Sportsmaster will also show up next Arc.

    Any opinion on how i set up my world, it is quite different. Any suggestions/challenges of any cartoon to add in some way? I am always on the look out for more villains to adapt and Items to add to my eventual Arsenal.​
     
  7. Threadmarks: Arc 1: Chapter 6: First Day On The Job
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 6: First Day On The Job
    Westside Mall
    Star City
    Jan 04/2010
    12:47 PM

    Zach and I have been rushed through the system, courtesy of Legion services. We even got a drivers license, once we took the test. At least one of the memories implanted was correct, neither of us had anything confused like red is go.​

    We had to post pone our visit with Superman. He had been called in on an emergency hurricane in Indonesia. With our newfound free time, Robin and Batgirl have decided we need new cloths. A limo ride later and were meeting with Artemis Wayne down town. With the Queen’s credit card, we are loaded with new fashion.​

    Artemis had taken over my style, claiming my sense of fashion was criminal. Zach had walked off with a mission as soon as we arrived, Roy chasing after him as he disappeared into the crowded mall.​

    “I think were finally done with making you decent.” Her words are delivered with no real heat, finally she seems to be accepting I’m my own person. Looking down at the eleven bags hanging of my arms, I can only blink.​

    “What else could we need?” I ask confused. Getting a once over from the blonde seventeen year old, she teases.​

    “Well for one you really need something done with your hair.” I grunt, not really considering it a priority. “It’s too long. Someone can grab onto it in a fight.” She explains when I don’t give her opinion the weight she knows it’s worth.​

    “If we have time I guess.” I placate her for now. “Why did you get me so much biker gear?” Asking once we get inline at the ‘Thai Titanic’ in the food court. She gives me an incredulous look.​

    “Seriously? You have the build for it and not much besides dark colors will go well with your complexion.” She explains before giving her order. “I avoided black and went with the so dark its nearly black shades of green, red, blue, and purple. It will look better mister albino, trust me.” She winks before jabbing a finger into my side. “Hurry up and order, I’m starving.”​

    “Ok fine.” I reply. When I turn back to the cashier, I find him staring at me in horror. His shaking finger is pointing at me. “What did I do?” I whine only for Artemis to grab my shoulder and twirl me around.​

    Emerging from ‘Sew it Seams’, are dozens of shambling mannequins. The animated figures are gaining mobility with every step. The screaming crowd is set upon by the walking plastic who have a surprising amount of strength.​

    “Cover me while I find somewhere to change.” Artemis firmly orders me. I nod my agreement and rush into the fray. While the shambler’s are able to easily overpower normal humans, my strength is far greater still.​

    The first on I reach, has a elderly Asian man pinned beneath its plastic frame. Grasping it by the legs, I lift it into the air above my head. Brandishing my new weapon, I charge forward and behind slamming their companion into the advancing horde.​

    While I hold the attackers off, more begin emerging from every store in sight. My frantic assault is working for now, allowing many to flee into the perceived shelter of the food court. Some of the more inspired civilians join me in holding the line.​

    Nothing seems to do more the slow these things down. Dismemberment only creates a crawling limb, leading to us being pushed backwards. Before we can be overwhelmed, I hear Batgirl yell overhead.​

    “Duck!” Her words are firm and commanding. Once everyone has dropped out of her way, she swings above us on a grapple line. Tossing a dozen Batarangs into the plastic platoon, they explode in some kind of yellow glue. Expanding swiftly, the foam hardens, trapping he scores of mannequins within.​

    “We need to get these people outside!” She barks down at me. “And then coordinate with the others.” Were stopped from doing anything as the mall announcements come on. Instead of the normal prerecorded message, we hear an angry German boys voice.​

    “Please, I have no time for your tears shoppers.” The voice is snide and arrogant. “This mall is now mine, the Toyman. Leave the premises in an orderly fashion and I will allow you to keep your lives.”

    “New plan.” Batgirl whispers to me. “Your going to cause a distraction, try and draw this guy out if you can.” She squares her shoulders. “I’ll go through the vents and try to sneak up on him.” I receive a pat on the shoulder in farewell. “Try and meet up with Robin and Zach.” She commands before grappling out of sight.​

    I grab on of the food court tables, brandishing it like shield and yell for everyone to get outside. My first task done, I begin jogging into to mall. Heavy footsteps announce my presence, as I barrel down the corridors. The straggling mannequins easily fall to my battering ram.​

    As I begin finding this too easy, I round a corner. The scene of Robin trying to avoid and army of model planes will Zach struggles against a swarm of animated beanie babies, has me stop in shock.​

    “Fire!” I hear from beside my head. Turning to look, I receive what feels like a cherry bomb to the face. The smoke and pain blind me for a few seconds before I can see my assailant. To my shock, it is a battalion of plastic army men.​

    The weapons are real, if not full power. Robin’s evasive maneuvers don’t seem so funny anymore now. The swarm charging out from the toy store’s is rapidly growing overwhelming. My body is peppered with hundreds of pinpricks of pain, as the soldiers unload everything on me.​

    Thinking fast, I bring my makeshift ram up over my head and with no hesitation, slam it down in the middle of the formation of soldiers. A few rapid strikes and I clear away most of the army men. Before I can relish my victory, I’m struck by several small figures​

    My next group of foes is a collection of heroic action figures. Dozens of miniature Dove’s and even a few figures of her father Hawk and son Robin swarm around me. Green Arrow action figures support them from afar, toy trick arrows are a major nuisance.​

    Zach has scorched away most of his stuffy attackers, leaving him open to engage the Remaining members of the Legion of Superheroes in action figure form. Sixty plus characters, with multiple copies of each battle the three of us with rapidly increasing odds.​

    Robin has managed to take down most of his pursuers with well placed arrows but with no breathing room, he is beset by something new. The Lego has had time to combine into a single massive foe. Standing twelve feet tall and with at least twenty visible weapons, its a rainbow mish mash of every set in the store.​

    It’s four arm’s each wield a Nerf gun, which begin firing darts of plasma towards us. Robin is able to strike it with a single arrow, causing the entire creation to break apart. He throws Zach and I each an arrow yelling out instructions.​

    “The toys are magic!” He does a barrel roll, avoiding a payload, before finishing his explanation. “Nth metal disrupts magic and my arrows all have some in the heads.” Finally having a way to do real damage I give a bellow of rage.​

    The fight begins to move even farther into the mall as we take out more and more toys. We follow a fleeing swarm between two rows of display vehicles. The eight vehicles arrayed are all contest prizes but most importantly, are all alive.​

    The headlights blind us with their high beams before roaring their engines. Eight different songs begin playing over their radios in a cacophony of discordant sounds. The vehicle closest to me is a green van, with blue waves on the bottom and a blue roof as well. It slams into my outstretched arms and super strength is awesome because I’m able to catch it mid air.​

    Barely feeling any strain in my muscles I flip the van upside down and drop it helplessly on its roof. An arrow whistles by my ear, striking into a red jeep sneaking up on me from behind. Energy crackles over the hood as the vehicle stalls, its artificial life gone.​

    Zach has forgone precision, instead jumping onto the hood of a blue Ferrari. With a powerful blow, he shoved a fist through the engine block. ‘Brain dead’, the car stopped instantly its lights fading into blackness.

    “You Imbeciles!” The angry German voice crackles over the loud speakers, filling the hallway with his taunts. “Why do you insist on interfering with my plans.” He mumbles something as we wrestle with his automobile army, that sounds like. “Your worse then my sister, sheesh.”​

    The taunts carry out while we battle, before being interrupted by the criminals startled gasp and a meaty thud as someone hits him hard.​

    “Batgirl here.” Our comrades voice let’s us know the worst is over. “”The Toyman has been dealt with. Finish up with the stragglers while I secure him.” Her voice orders firmly.​

    Panicked honks come from the still active vehicles, before they try to escape our presence. Robin is able to hit three before hes finally out of arrows. Zach just rockets into and through the back of the fleeing Jeep. Emerging from the smoking hood, he heaves the wrecked engine into the side of one of the cars.​

    “Your mom really knows her stuff.” Zach wipes some oil from his face as he declares. “I’m going to have to thank her when we get back for teaching me how to follow through on my charge.” As Robin claps him on the back excitedly, I turn to a sorrowful honk.​

    Behind me, still on it’s hood helpless, is the green and blue hippie van. It’s headlights have dimmed, creating an impression of sadness. The wheels spin uselessly as the van struggles.​

    “You going to behave if I flip you back over?” My question stops the vehicle for a moment before the radio crackles to life. The sound of "It Was All We Knew" begins to play. I hesitate before making a decision.​

    Putting the arrow Robin gave me away, I tense my legs and lift. Setting the grateful vehicle back on it’s wheels, it rolls ahead and “nuzzles” my leg.​

    “So what do I do with you?” I ponder aloud with my gravelly voice. "To Be Alive" begins to play at my question, changing to "Hold On" as its headlights flare to full power. Nearly blind, I have no chance to avoid the van as it drives past me and pops open the back doors. ​

    Before I can react, it rockets backwards slamming into me. I roll inside the van as the doors slam shut behind me. Happy, excited honks signal our movement. As we rocket past my friends “Take Me Home, Country Roads” begins to blare over the speakers. ​

    Crawling forward on my hand and knees, I eventually reach the driver’s seat. I have no control over anything, steering and the brakes both unresponsive. The song changes to “Why Can’t we Be Friends” and as we screech around the corner, I can see Batgirl now in costume, dragging a short red haired boy.​

    He has a white lab coat and a swollen black eye. Black boots and a pair of purple rubber gloves is the rest of his out fit. He shouts obscenities at her as she drags him by his collar towards the others. I cheekily give her a wave, deciding to roll with the situation for now.​

    “Tell Robin I’ll meet him and Zach at home!” I shout back at her as we roll around a final corner. With a straight line to the outside, the engine revs several times in excitement. "Onward" plays over the radio and we roar forwards to freedom and some kind of adventure.​
     
  8. Threadmarks: Chapter 7: Dashing Through the Snow
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 7: Dashing Through the Snow
    North Shore Bridge
    Star City
    Jan 04/2010
    2:15 PM

    Inside a news chopper following a most unusual chase, is a red headed woman in a yellow pantsuit. Her camera man is alternating between close ups of her and views of the action racing along below.​

    “For anyone now tuning in to Channel 8 News, this is April O'Neil live over North Shore bridge.” She catches her breath and continues her amused tone. “What began as an attack by a boy wizard known as the Toyman, has now changed into a high speed pursuit.” The camera pans downward, showing her words to the audience at home.​

    “Robin and Batgirl, along with two new allies of theirs stopped Toyman but one of their allies was captured by some kind of self driving van.” She shakes her head in disbelief and resumes her report.​

    “This ‘Mystery Machine’ has been making its way south and is now crossing the North Shore Bridge to Central City. We can only hope they can avoid the situation ongoing at Keystone Labs, where Speedy and Flower Child are engaged in battle with Mr. Freeze and his son.”​

    ---

    A picture of me obtained from my recent visit to the immigration office, shows my pale face with the black star marking on display over my left eye. The cameraman is getting a good shot of my ride along as the green and blue van dashes around cars, somehow doing well over a hundred and eighty kilometers and hour.​

    The magical vehicle I’m inside, has a flat screen on the ceiling, above a bed that takes up half the available space. It’s how I was able to learn my friends chose to leave the Toyman with the cops and come after me.​

    “They really seem to want me back dude.” I look away from the screen the shows Batgirl racing after me on a black and purple motor bike. Robin is behind her, his crimson wings unable to keep up on the straight away.​

    Most worryingly is Zach in blue jeans, cowboy boots, and a red flannel shirt rocketing towards us with a single fist stretched out before his swimmers pose. He is actually gaining on us as he becomes more comfortable with his flight.​

    “May want to pull over before he catches up eh?” I implore the now named Mystery Machine. The single defiant horn blare, followed by the frantic side to side of the windshield wipers has me convinced that was a failure.

    I look back at the screen to see Zach has nearly caught up. I can feel my muscles tense as his inches towards us, clearly trying to stop us with causing a wreck. When he is nearly 5 feet behind us and slowly gaining, I feel the brakes lurch below me.​

    “Argh!” I hear Zach yell as in a very familiar motion, the back doors swing open. Our sudden drop in speed, has my rescuer rocket through the van’s interior. He slams into the windshield beside me with not even a single crack forming. Oh yeah magic van and Kryptonian, one of his few weaknesses.​

    The slowdown was only momentary. Once Zach is inside, the doors slam shut behind him again. The tires squeal and we race off again, barely losing any of our lead over Batgirl and Robin. Zach groans and slides over into the passenger seat.​

    “Why haven’t you jumped out yet? We jumped from a higher bridge back home.” Zach questions me with a groan. I can only stare at him in amazement.​

    “In what way is this the same thing?” I yell in frustration. “A haunted van kidnapped me and is going almost two hundred, No way i’m trying to jump.” He raises his hands in defeat.​

    “Yeah sorry man, just mad I got outsmarted by a hippie van.” His words are contrite and it’s a weird situation, I can give him a pass I guess.​

    “Don’t worry about it.” I wave it off and change the subject. “were on the news.” Zach follows my finger to the TV behind us, still showing us being pursued.​

    “OK, that’s awesome. She’s calling you Star-lad.” He snorts in amusement. “She thinks your related to Paul Stanley from KISS. Ha!” I get a full body laugh from him that takes a while to subside.​

    “Whatever.” I mutter back defiantly. The radio changes stations suddenly, the static from before now gone.​

    “Chief Hawkins has cordoned of Keystone Labs but the army of snowmen are stopping them from entering.” A gruff mans voice fills the van, volume on max. “Speedy and his sister are inside handling the Freeze’s but Robin and his new Alien friend are on their way in some kind of haunted van.” The Reporters words are venom filled as he begins yelling.​

    “I always knew the Graysons were just like any other alien and here’s the proof! Their on their way to team up with Mr Freeze and Jr.” His words go solemn and his voice lowers its volume finally. “Bless Speedy and Flower Child, We can only hope back up is on the way for this cities heroes as well.”​

    The radio goes silent, allowing us to realize where were going. Before we can panic at the vehicles intentions, the radio begins to play ‘I’m Holding Out For a Hero’. Zach taps me on the shoulder and asks.​

    “Since when was this an Elvis song?” He’s as confused as I am though for different reasons.​

    “Dude, were aliens and everything we know is from a movie and this is what you find weird?” I question him in amazement. He shifts in his seat uncomfortably and shrugs.​

    “I like music, you know that.” He glares half halfheartedly at me. “I never called you a nerd in front of Superman when you noticed the map was different, so lay off.” Yeah he had a few chances to ruin my reputation if he wanted to and hes never done something like that.​

    “Yeah sorry, I know your always their for me. Like I am for you.” He nods before he narrows his eyes and points ahead of us.​

    Sometime during our heart to heart, we entered Central City. As we approached the government lab, we began to see signs of the Freeze’s everywhere. Snow golems of every shape in a zoo have been passed on our way. We even plowed straight through an aggressive snow bear without slowing down.​

    The street and buildings are covered in a thick sheet of ice, nearly a foot thick in some areas. This does nothing to our traction, the magic in the Mystery Machine enabling us to glide over the ice and sliding to a stop in front of Keystone Labs.​

    We are stopped between the police barricade and a horde of snowmen, both doors pop open and the van begins doing donuts in place. The frantic motion, flings us both out of the vehicle and into one of many snow banks that have formed.​

    As I struggle to my feet on the sleek ice, I witness the heads of the van shine to life. The light reflects of the snowmen as it races forward clearing a path for us. Swerving on a dime, the van crashes through foe after foe in a cloud of snow.​

    A rendition of ‘Let The Bodies Hit the Floor’ begins to play loudly drawing all attention to the Mystery Machine’s rampage. Batgirl and Robin swerve to a stop beside us, steel spikes are jutting out from her wheels for traction. Robin Gives us a sarcastic wave as he hops off the back of the bike.​

    “Had fun on your joyride?” He has no heat in his voice, realizing the van is the one who brought us here to save the day.​

    “Was great, heard some new tunes and we beat you to the action.” Zach retorts with no bite either. Batgirl interrupts the male bonding by reminding us were needed inside.​

    “Zach your with Robin, give Speedy a hand.” She addresses me. “Were going to help Flower Child. I’m banking on your healing overcoming her pheromones.” She narrows her eyes at me and growls. “If you can’t stay focused get clear and help the boys.”​

    “Got it.” I confirm. Zach glares at the building seeing something inside he does not like.​

    “Catch up, I may leave on for you.” With his arrogant words he races inside the lab in a blur of red and blue. Robin groans while Batgirl sighs.​

    “Their ready for speedsters.” Robin explains in frustration. “You have to be if your working in Central.”​

    “New plan, you help Speedy, I’ll get Zach out of whatever Freeze has done to him and Star-lad here can help Flower Child.” Batgirl issues commands so confidently neither me or Robin realize were following her orders for almost the entire trip.​

    “Wait who made you the boss?” Robin finally demands in irritation as we make our approach inside the snow filled building.​

    “Is anything I said different then what you would have decided on?” She asks him impatiently. “No? Then lets deal with this once we help our friends.” She shudders at the sight of a scientist who has been frozen solid. “Freeze Does not fool around, so focus.” Batgirl snaps back.​

    “I’m more durable then both of you. Let me tank whatever they have ready for us.” I interrupt the rising tension with a sensible suggestion. Giving them no chance to argue, I lower my shoulder and barrel into and the frozen door.​

    I emerge into a high tech lab in a hail of frozen metal shards with a roar. I can see a Zach encased in a hunk of ice, his frozen mouth not allowing his fire breath to melt him free. Aside from his capture he’s fine, so follow the plan and scan the room quickly.​

    In red leggings, boots, and gloves is Speedy. He has a yellow long sleeve suit with a red lightning bolt across his chest. A pair of goggles complete his outfit under a head of ginger hair. He stares at my arrival for a second before resuming his battle with Mr Freeze.​

    In a high tech battle suit of cobalt blue metal, only his head is visible. A bald head is encased in what looks like a fishbowl. The eight foot tall cryogenic criminal, is launching a subzero mist from one hand while the other fires blasts of liquid that freeze whatever surface it lands on instantly.​

    Behind and over turned table, I can see some thorny vines flailing desperately. A teen in a blue parka has a pair of pistols, bolts of ice shooting from each. His cocky approach was disturbed by my arrival and Vines being the closest thing to flowers I can see, makes him my target of attack.​

    Using the only battle cry that I can think of I charge at him with a fierce bellow.​

    “I’m going to feed you my fist through the back of your skull!” My threat and it’s intensity, has him stumble before he twists in my direction. He gives me no time to reach him before I'm struck several times with his blasts of ice.​

    It’s so cold it feels like my skin is burning for a few seconds before I go numb to my pain. Finally in what I’m now calling my battle mode, I ignore his attacks and leap onto him. My massive form crashes into his more regular sized frame, bring him to the ground with a crash.​

    The thud of his head slamming into the ice has him out cold. I disarm him of his ice guns and call behind the table.​

    “You OK? I took care of Kid Cold here.” My words have a head of green hair popping up from behind the table cautiously.​

    “He’s Freeze Jr. and thanks.” Her words are like honey on my ears as soon as I see her “Normally I avoid these two but Wal-Speedy wasn’t going to wait for mom or dad to get back from the hurricane in the Philippines.” Honestly she could tell me anything and I would agree, as long as she keeps smiling at me.​

    I frown in confusion as she rolls her eyes angrily. My mind feels fuzzy for a few seconds so I shake my head to clear out the cobwebs. When I do I can see the green haired girl with brown skin that has the texture of bark is cute but I can’t remember why I wanted to devote myself to her entirely anymore.​

    “Sorry, brain fart. I’m good now.” I apologize with not a small amount of chagrin at my behavior. “Batgirl was right. My healing factor did overcome your pheromones.” My words have Flower Child’s jaw drop.​

    Our meeting is interrupted by an explosion across the room. Robin has joined Speedy in his battle, sending out arrows way more deadly then the ones he had in the mall. Several explode in balls of fire, while others emit a high frequency shriek that shatters nearby ice.​

    Batgirl set several detonators on the block of ice trapping a desperate Zach, blowing all three at once and shattering the icy prison. Emerging from the blocks of ice and steaming mist, Zach roars in defiance before vanishing in a thunder-crack.​

    He slams into Mr Freeze’s battle suit so hard, it is embedded into the concrete wall behind him. The glass dome over his head has shattered, clouds of blue fog begin pouring out of his suit. His scream of fear is ended as the fog freezes solid​

    Entombed inside a suit ruptured from the expanding ice, I decide not to image what happened to Mr. Freeze’s body inside that mess. I give Flower Child a hand, helping her over the ice covered floor to the others.​

    “Nice to meet you two, I’m Tom.” I introduce myself. Robin chuckles and adds.​

    “Or as Miss O’Neil has dubbed him, Star-lad.” I shrug and finally nod.​

    “Better then my ideas of Falling Man or Tank. I can handle Star-lad.” I consider the rumors already spreading. “Hey I may meet KISS because of this, could be worse.”​

    Zach grabs the unconscious body of Jr and passes him to me. He begins pulling whats left of Mr Freeze from the wall.​

    “I’m going to bring him straight to the prison hospital Green Arrow told us about.” He awkwardly mumbles out an explanation. “I didn't mean to hit him so hard, I had no idea I could go so fast.” He finally admits.​

    “Yeah you were going almost half my top speed.” Speedy jumps in suspiciously. “Are you Superman's son or something? Him and Kara are the only two I know of who can almost keep up.” He demands impatiently only for his sister to elbow him painfully in the side.​

    “Shut up Wally. They saved our behinds when you decided you couldn’t wait for even grandpa to give us a hand.” she admonishes him like a small child even though they both seem to be around seventeen.​

    “Whatever” He mumbles out a halfhearted apology before he races off to let the police outside know it’s over.​


    -----​





    The Powerpuff girls are going t be coming about halfway through season. I want one to be long term while the other two are only temporary. Since you noticed Zach is not the clone origin, the three girls will be 5 year old "Galatea's"/Kryptonian clones.
    Do you prefer
    A: Bubbles.
    B: Blossom.
    C: Buttercup.
    As the one who is long term?
    If anyone has a request for any character or powers or item from any cartoon from the 50' to 2008, i will add it if i don't already have an idea for it.
     
  9. Threadmarks: Chapter 8: What We’ve Been Training For
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 8: What We’ve Been Training For
    Area 52
    Nevada Desert
    Jan 05/2010
    08:21 PM

    Crouching around a mile wide crater, seven figures observe the last of the day staff drive away. concealed in the shadows of a rock formation, the adult of the group addresses everyone.​

    “Before we begin our infiltration, everyone has removed their aglets correct?” The faceless black man in a purple trench coat double checks. Looking around at the rest of the team, I can see everyone is as confused as I am.​

    “What the hell is an aglet?” Zach grunts out in frustration as he pulls at his new uniform. a solid black long sleeved jumpsuit with a silver U on his chest. Matching bronze bracers and boots of some more alien material go with the bronze standard issue utility belt we all have.​

    A jet black cape with a pattern of silver and bronze starbursts, completes his out fit. When he flew above me earlier, I could barely notice him against the starry sky behind him.​

    Superman was able to convince him to wear some Kryptonian material when he was on duty by sharing a story from his early days. Hearing how the first time Superman tried to save people from a burning building, ended in him nearly naked was enough to convince Zach he needed a costume.​

    For myself I really had no interest in fancy cloths getting destroyed all the time, so I had gone for bulk. At the mall I had selected a dozen dark leather vests and pants, which I may be regretting now with the desert heat. My dark purple utility belt has had a few extra things added for me beyond the usual kit, thanks to Green Arrow.​

    Without direct sunlight my dark purple leather getup becomes indistinguishable from black, some kind of fancy Wayne Tech invention. Since my brain seems to be the one thing I should not lose, I have a matching bikers skull cap made of Nth metal. It has been covered in a matching purplish black lacquer with a pair of Hippo ears, added by Dove in jest.​

    I have a dark green undershirt made of some kind of Thanagarian Kevlar like material. It also has Nth metal interwoven throughout the fabric, magical and energy attacks should be less effective against me. Finishing my look, is a pair of black biker boots with silvered toe spikes half an inch long.​

    “Aglets are the plastic ends of shoelaces and contain tracking devices implanted by Cadbury.” The Question frowns at us somehow. “We really don’t need anyone else knowing we were here.” A look at everyones feet shows five pairs of laceless boots, and a pair of brown barky feet bare against the sand.​

    “You’re the only one with shoelaces.” I speak up finally, unable to resist needling our escort. Looking down at his own feet I get a mouth less smirk.​

    “Made them myself.” Cocking his head to one side, he adds. “If you want to sleep tonight, don’t ask with what.” With that unsettling thought, we begin our final preparations.​

    “Speedy, you and Flower Child are waiting out here.” Batgirl gestures to the twins. “She can sense reinforcements approaching and you can get to either group if something goes wrong.” A cocky thumbs up from the ginger boy and a cautious nod from the green haired girl have her moving on to her next orders.​

    “Robin you’re with me, were going to hack some servers and grab everything we can on the place.” She gets an excited grin from her teammate in response.

    “I’m with Ultraboy and Question.” I point to the newly code named Zach and our chaperon. “You said two groups inside and were the leftovers.” Our dark squire narrows her eyes in annoyance and nods in confirmation.​

    “Yeah.” She flips my turnabout back on me. “So what are your objectives them mister I’m so smart?” Oh that is a good question. Good thing I paid attention in class when the Question told us what he found.​

    “Easy, Were going after the alien subjects being held inside. Question is coming with us to overcome any Starro’s we find and break their control.” My quick and accurate answer has her exhale slowly.

    “Correct, so I guess you don’t need any of the security codes I picked up already then.” I can picture he tongue sticking out at me clearly, even from behind her bat themed helmet. Fine, it’s on!​

    “Naw were good.” I strike a pose filled with more confidence then I have any right to feel. “I want to make as much noise as I can anyway. The more security I can get on me, the easier everyone’s jobs will be.” Artemis stares me down, looking for any sign of weakness. Something I haven’t been feeling much of lately.​

    “Alright, if were working as a team dad says I do have to learn to mesh my methods with others.” And if he can work with that loudmouth Shining Knight, I can handle you being our pain sponge.” Her voice really has me thinking I should have kept my mouth shut.​

    Roy and Wally were going to be using tonight as an audition for second in command, since it was obvious Batgirl was in charge. I seem to have unintentionally thrown my hat into the ring as well. I really need to learn to think before I speak before I volunteer for something worse like animal testing.​

    “Make as much noise as you can and Ultraboy will cover the Question. Speedy can back you up in seconds.” She glares at me, daring me to interrupt. “If you get in over your head, radio for back up. One Sir Gardner is all we need in this business.”​

    “No worries.” I confirm. “I know I’m only the distraction.” Pointing across the crater at approaching headlights, I add. “Besides I really only volunteered because it seems like they know someone is here already.” I square my shoulders, take a deep breath, and steady my nerves. Once ready, I take off running around the perimeter of the cliff side.​

    In the dim desert light I can see clearly. Lack of clouds and light pollution give me plenty of starlight to see by. Vaulting over a sandstone rock pile, I can clearly make out the approaching vehicle.​

    It’s a Cadmus security truck, with around a dozen men pilled into the back. Everyone of them has a purple mask with glowing yellow lenses for eyes. Their black ninja outfits go with their katanas but not so much with the assault rifles.​

    Once their headlights reveal my charging form, they open fire on me. I can feel multiple impacts, but don’t slow down, only drop onto my back and slide. Gliding over the loose sand, I go right underneath the raised truck.

    Kicking upwards with both legs, I brace against the ground. My kick is strong enough to flip the backside of the truck up into the air, sending the weird looking ninjas every which way. The nose of the truck slams into the ground extinguishing the lights as both are smashed.

    Remembering what Shayera told us in training, I keep my momentum going. I jump to my feet and grasp onto the rear axle of the truck. Pressing a foot against the bottom of the truck, I twist and pull. Tearing the axle away from the truck, I now have a weapon. Spinning my double sided staff like a broom handle, I step out from behind the truck.​

    Only four of the men are on their feet, the rest lay still scattered along the sand. Blood seeps from several of them, staining the sand beneath them. The ones standing react to my presence by drawing their blades and rushing at me.​

    I’m fast enough to slam one with a truck tire at the end of my staff, flinging him away from me and down into the crater below. The second one however slices an arm off right below my elbow when he got close. I feel no pain but I am shocked by how much blood is spraying everywhere even as my arm begins regrowing.​

    Reacting instinctively, I bring my knee straight up into his ribs, feeling them shatter on impact. When his broken body drops away from me, his allies move to surround me. One on each side they keep skating around my peripheral vision.​

    Before either can take advantage of my indecision, a massive cactus springs from the ground in front of each of them. Both plants grown rapidly to over nine feet in height and have six arms each, which quickly wrap the ninja up in a hug. A cloud of dust swirls to a stop beside me, revealing Speedy.​

    “Why are you covered in laundry detergent?” He asks with a frown, able to see me clearly once he turns on his goggles lights. Looking my self over, I see he’s right mixed in with my own crimson blood is a lot of blue fluid very similar to detergent.​

    The biggest portion of blue goo is on my knee, the one I hit the ninja with. Grabbing Speedy by the head I turn his face to the fallen enemies. Yeah I was right, each of the dead ones is in a puddle of blue goo. Each body is rapidly deflating as the substance leaks out onto the sand, refusing to absorb into it.​

    “What the hell are they?” He finally asks once he has a half second to process.​

    “Guys. I need you in here now.”Zach’s voice interrupts our musings, coming in over the earpiece radio we all have. “We got a lot of Martians and they aren’t friendly.”​


    Area 52
    Nevada Desert
    Jan 05/2010
    08:38 PM

    Standing inside the stainless steel elevator as we begin our descent, I can only hope the Kyle and the others wont need me. I got stuck with our babysitter, the freaky faceless guy. When I think this, he turns and gives me the impression hes smiling. How does he know when I’m thinking about him?​

    “Are you reading my mind?” I growl out, feeling my anger rise in my chest. “I had enough of the mind control in my pod!” Ignoring my anger, the Question only smiles wider somehow.​

    “No need.” He explains calmly. “You glare at me whenever you think of me, it’s rather obvious.”​

    “Oh.” Is all I can really say in response, I have always been an expressive person. “So what’s your story anyway why does everyone on the Legion act like your such a big deal?” I have to know how someone this weird can command so much respect from everyone.

    “Nothing big.” He shrugs and tries to brush it off like it was nothing. “Back in ‘78 I basically single handedly stopped the White Martian invasion by revealing their use of white chocolate as a mind altering substance.” “And I may have found and destroyed the cloaked mother ship with Hawk, Doves father by piecing together the clues hidden in the Ohio Fried Chicken’s fortune cookies.”​

    So much about that confuses me. OFC and Fortune cookies? White chocolate made people go rabid? I don’t have long to wonder, the elevator door’s open before I have a response ready. Inside the room is almost a hundred of the pods I was in with Kyle. Or I guess he’s going by Tom now, need to remember that.

    It’s an empty room nearly forty feet tall, more like a warehouse then anything. The pods are arrayed along the walls, stacked three high. In the middle of the room are three people facing us.​

    The one in the middle I assume is in charge, is a man in a mask of two solid colors. One half of his face is covered by a solid orange metal, while the other half is concealed behind an indigo fabric. The fabric makes up a military style combat suit, with several visible weapons. He has plates of the strange orange metal covering various weak points on his body and in a few places can be used as a weapon, like the knee and elbow blades.​

    On his left is a hunched scientist in a blue lab coat. He has pale blue skin and a greasy black ponytail. The final member of the group is a woman with mint green skin and a form fitting body suit of alternating black and green leather. She has waist length black hair hanging loosely behind her, striking a glorious figure.​

    “So it was more the the one we found on the perimeter?” The masked leader addresses his female companion with a firm and commanding voice. “Glad we decided to wait inside with the miserable Dr. Drakken now Karai my dear?”​

    “Yes father.” Her looks don’t match her contrite words, clearly unhappy having to apologize. “I am sorry for doubting your wisdom.”​

    “All is forgiven my dear.” His voice turns cruel and hard as he finally addresses me and the Question. “After all our missing subjects came home all on their own. And they even brought some friends for us to meet.”​

    “Your behind this!” I roar out in a blinding rage, only able to see red now. I can vaguely notice the masked man drawing a glowing green katana along with his daughter. This matters little however as I begin to rush forward.​

    Before this moment, no one I fought had been unable to keep up with me. This guy in the mask, can. As I rocket across the floor barely remembering to stay below the speed of sound, I hear mechanical grinding as he accelerates to match my speed.​

    His blade swings at neck height forcing me to drop into a roll, barely avoiding having my head removed. My ball form provides him with a perfect target, kicking my across the room full force. I crash into the wall and feel the concrete shatter behind me as I fall to the ground feeling pain for the first time in days.​

    Looking up, I can see the question has turned each arm into some kind of bladed whip. I had no idea he could do that. Swing each arm in furious patterns, he is able to force the two sword wielders back. I can’t let him do all the work, time to get back in their.​

    My second try goes way better then my first, catching the swordsman off guard with my recovery time. Grabbing him by the wrist, I twist it in an attempt to break his grip from his blade. He doesn’t stop struggling however and I hear the tear of a pop can as I tear his hand from his wrist.​

    Instead of flesh and blood, I see only steel warped from the pressure I exerted and some kind of clay-like fake skin. He kicks into my side and leaps away in my distraction, yelling to the missing Dr.​

    “Release the Xeno-Morphs!” A shrill voice comes from the orange assassin’s stomach instead of his unmoving mouth. All along each wall, dozens of pods hiss as the chemicals inside drain away, evaporating on contact with the air.

    “NO!” The frantic voice of the Question alerts me to the true danger posed. “What have you done to my family!” His angry wail has me reconsider what I know as from each pod emerges a white humanoid.​

    They look like those statues on that Easter island place, or at least their heads do. All are hairless with a large rectangular head and bulbous noses. Each has a lithe body with no sign of gender on their naked albino body. What has me worried, is that on the of head of each one is a Starro staring at us.​

    The bodies of the aliens begin to shift and melt, revealing sword length claws and massive fangs to go with the scorpion like tails growing form each back. Seeing the immobile state of the Question, I react.​

    “Guys. I need you in here now.” I take a breath as I remember seeing these things in a movie we watched with the Queen’s “We got a lot of Martians and they aren’t friendly.”​


    – – – – –​
    NOTES

    I hope it was clear the second half of the chapter was done in Zach’s PoV. I tried it out last chapter with the news opening and went full different PoV this time. Buttercup had two very convincing arguments for her to be the long term inclusion so I will make it so.​

    I tried to go classic Lobo with like a 10% twist by adding some color in the sun and a minor hippo theme to the helmet.​

    mce-anchor Now full props to Camalphaman, who made a suggestion for Dexter/Toyman. 6 or so chapters before I was going to add in his backstory and clues, they guessed basically 90% of his backstory and was only off on the last bit because the show I saw the character suggested in was not Supergirl but Robot Chicken. The part of their suggestion I am adapting is his long term role with the story, I had not been sure if he was going to join the team or not, now I know what the characters endgame is. So every chapter with Dexter is now dedicated to you as well as Zach.​

    Aku was a clear winner of one poll and will replace Trigon AND be a member of the Light somehow. Imagine how you will the things this will change.​

    What is going on with Deathstroke the Terminator? Since when can he go toe to toe with a Kryptonian? And what was up with the synthetic Foot clan ninjas?​

    Whats is going on with the Question? And uh-oh that’s a lot of mind controlled white Martians ready to attack how will we overcome this trouble?​

    Shego/Karai also makes her appearance in the story and Drakken has a cameo. He annoys me but it felt right for him to be present for her debut.​

    For M'gann, What show should have been programmed into her brain. I have good (in my mind) stories i can do either way butt can't make uup my mind. If no one tells me what to do, I'll flip a coin or something.
    A: Brady Bunch
    B: Three's Company
     
  10. Threadmarks: Chapter 9: I’ll Be Back
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 8: I’ll Be Back
    Area 52
    Nevada Desert
    Jan 05/2010
    08:48 PM

    I got no response when I made my call for help. Being forced to grab to still frozen Question and retreat back inside the elevator, I’m able to keep the swarm from getting inside. My fiery breath is forcing them back for now but each one is getting smaller then the last.

    I’m running out of time and air I think desperately. I need to make decision fast, coming up with only one echoing phrase from Shayera’s lesson.

    “Control the battlefield.” I can hear her stern voice in my head, demanding I do better. So I will. “Find out whats keeping the others and get back down here once your heads in the game.” I order with false bravado. Slamming a finger into the up button, I blur back into the room as the doors whoosh shut behind me.​

    Finally able to cut loose with no worry of hurting anyone I shouldn’t, I crack my knuckles in anticipation. A quick spin in place shoots a ring of freezing light at eye level all around me. Where the frigid air impacts the shape shifters, skin goes brittle and cracks away with a shriek of pain.

    With them forced back in surprise, I shoot past them and grab the wrist of the mint green girl. A light twist and she is effortlessly in the air and easy prey for my choke hold. My blur of motion had the Halloween colored ninja leap back, allowing me to grab my hostage.​

    “Back off or I snap her neck!” My barked orders are only laughed at.​

    “If my daughter cannot free herself, I have no need of her.” The masked ninja answers me with no emotion. Leaving me in a bad situation. Surrounded by what has to be nearly a hundred shape shifting aliens, I grin back defiantly.​

    “Man he’s worse then my dad.” I sympathize with my captive who struggles in my grip. She slams a spiked heel uselessly into the top of my foot before replying in frustration.​

    “Well your the one manhandling me, you aren’t such a nice guy either.” Her snarl startles me before I realize the Martians are attacking again. With the chance to catch my breath, I'm ready for this now.​

    I jump and hang in the air before I begin to spin again. Instead of my freezing vision, I breath out another torrent of flame. Wrapping my cape around the ninja girl’s with my arms firmly pressed against her chest, I keep her shielded from the cyclone of fire I create.​

    My fireball worked, several of the more aggressive aliens falling to the ground severely burnt. The flame has forced the rest of the scorpion tailed albinos against the walls hissing in anger. When I finally run out of steam I lower the to of us to the ground.

    When I look around I hear the grinding of metal rushing around my left side. I try to dodge whatever is coming for me but feel the agony of a jade blade pierce my side. It goes clean through my hostage as well, leaving us both impaled on the blade.

    “Your dad is way worse then me.” I grunt as my vision begins to fade, he must have gotten something important. My words are silenced by a very tight grip. Mr Halloween ninja, has a hand around my throat squeezing hard enough to hurt.​

    “No I am far superior to you.” An cold voice addressees me. “I shall have to show you how much better I really am.” I feel the blade slide free from my side and green girl removed from my hold, followed by a punch as hard as any I have given since waking in my new body.​

    He strikes me exactly where my stab wound is, sending an explosion of pain through my body. My assailant does not stop with a single blow, mechanically feeding me gut shot after gut shot. After I lose count of how many blows I take, I can barely comprehend being thrown across the room.​

    Laying on the floor in a barely coherent state, I hear more taunts from the inhumanly strong warrior.​

    “You must be wondering why Kryptonite has any effect on you?” Something I had not even considered. I actually forgot swords were not supposed to hurt. “This is actually an Anti-Matter blade from my home world.” Finally some emotion enters his voice. Unfortunately its sadistic glee.​

    “I may be trapped on this backwater planet but I am perfection. And you are weak flesh.” I can recognize how much danger I’m in when he lifts the sword for a finishing blow. “I would ask if you have any last words but I really don’t care.”​

    Before the blade can finish its downward arc, the elevator chimes open. A streak of yellow and red can only be Speedy, no one else is fast enough for me to lose sight of. Before I can even complete my thought, I feel his hand on my wrist. In a streak of motion, were across the room, in front of the elevator.​

    “Cavalries here buddy.” A cocky but friendly voice addresses me. “It’s our turn for fist contact.”​




    Area 52
    Nevada Desert
    Jan 05/2010
    08:44 PM

    Running full speed down the dirt road into the crater, I can only hope things are going OK for Zach and the Question. Flower Child or Iris West as she had introduced herself as yesterday, is right beside me. Her bark like skin is very durable, apparently knife proof at the minimum. She has a one piece unitard made of woven grass and leaf but far stronger then either have any right to be after some kind of sap treatment.

    Her hair looks like long wavy grass about shoulder length. When she gets emotional it starts to stand straight up like a porcupine’s quills, which happens nearly anytime her brother Wally opens his mouth.

    Speaking of Speedy, he raced ahead of us when we got the call from Zach. Hes waiting outside the doors to the lab, frantically tapping his foot.​

    “Took you long enough.” Were chided by the speedster. “Question says Zach is fighting a swarm of Martians downstairs and Deathstroke the Terminator.” Ok I can see the need for speed now.​

    “Why is he down their alone?” I demand from Speedy who raises his hands in defense.​

    “Not sure but Question seems to be having flashbacks or something.” He points inside were we can see the faceless man pace back and forth, frantically speaking to himself. “I guess he thought he was done with Martians and is having a hard time dealing.”​

    A door opens inside, revealing Batgirl and Robin who approach the pacing Question. Batgirl begins speaking to him while Robin waves us inside.​

    “More Martians with the White Plague. I thought all were gone.” A desperate voice greets us as the man pulls at his Jerry curls in frustration. “You don’t understand the horror of facing one of them. Martians are a very psychically powerful species.” He explains to those of us ignorant, mainly me I guess.​

    “When a martian goes white like the ones down below have, all mental faculties are gone.” He seems close to weeping at the thought. “They become feral lacking any will of their own. They are easy to bend to your will, if you are strong enough. But any who lack the raw power, become infected like the albinos.”​

    “When they invaded, it was really the last of the species trying to flee the sickness. But only one Martian made it to Earth uninfected.” His voice has grown angry as the explanation continued and with good reason.​

    “So Cadmus has the last Martians being experimented on?” I ask for clarification.​

    “Yeah and it seems we have more then a single green Martian on Earth.” Batgirl answers for everyone's benefit. “We found a female upstairs.” Her words have us all kind of stunned. “She has a Starro on her head but its a weird reddish pink one instead of the white one you had.”​

    “Show me. The rest of you aid Ultraboy.” Were ordered by the Question, who finally is back in the game.​

    “Got it, follow me.” Robin answers, leading our supervisor towards the stairs while the rest of us assemble before the elevator.

    “Speedy, when we get downstairs, I want you inside and grabbing Ultraboy if it looks like he’s in over his head.” Batgirl commands with her no arguments voice. “Flower Child, send out some KT’s and cover us. Star-lad, keep the elevator doors clear so we can get away.” As we shuffle inside she informs us of her objective with a savage snarl. “Deathstroke, he’s mine.”​

    “Got it Artemis, now chill.” Flower Child reassures our leader. Vines have begun growing from her wrists, forming tomato plants at the end of each one. Rapidly the red bulbous plants are the size of basketballs.​

    Peering at us with beady eyes, the tomatoes open their mouths and smile. A set of fanged jaws are inside each one of the tomatoes, who now snap free from the vines. As the doors of the elevator open, Speedy races into the room.​

    Following him into battle, is the squadron of killer tomatoes laughing with excitement. Batgirl charges in next followed by me shortly after. I have time to watch Zach’s bleeding form be deposited at our feet before battle is on us.​

    A swarm of albino aliens looking nearly identical to the thing from the Movie Alien, leap at us from every direction. I know not to take a hit if I can now, so I avoid the scorpion tail striking at me. Grabbing it with both hands, I wield it like a flail.​

    Slamming it against any of its kind who make an attempt to get past me, I keep the perimeter clear. Batgirl has rocketed right at the one handed ninja leading the aliens. Engaging him in a swift back and forth, it’s obvious she needs a hand.​

    The savage tomatoes have helped even the odds but Speedy is her only hope of back up for now. He takes his chance and streaks behind the swordsman. In his hand is a taser crackling with electrical energy.

    Slamming it into Deathstroke’s side, his whole body seizes up and crackles with electrical discharge. Instead of being a short blast meant to stun him, the energy continues to course along his body.​

    Soon his skin begins to blacken and smoke begins to rise from beneath his clothes. In no time they ignite in a burst of flame. A shrill yell from his belly is followed by what looks like a brain with tentacles emerging. Landing on the floor with a wet squelch, it looks around the room frantically.​

    “Karai activate the transporter and get me out of here!” The brain thing addresses us all now safely hidden behind more of the Martians. “Children, once I have an even better body, I’ll be back to finish what I started with the Kryptonian.”​

    “Yes father.” A pained female voice answers him before a woman around my age sprints by Batgirl and picks up her “father”. She inputs a command on the belt of her fathers body before running at the wall. “Bloody Mary, open the mirror now!” Karai yells into her own wrist.​

    A hidden panel slides up, revealing a man sized mirror. It glows a faint blue as Karai leaps at the glass, somehow appearing inside the reflection. A cheeky wave from her and she takes off in the mirrored elevator inside.​

    “What just happened?” I ask Iris beside me in shock.​

    “Bloody Mary is Mirror Masters’ daughter. Grandpa Scott and dad handled him but she is straight up deadly.” Iris explains. “She went on a murder spree killing models she thought were prettier whenever they looked in a reflective surface. I have no idea why she’s working with the Terminator, or that he was whatever he is.”​

    “We need to go. NOW!” Batgirl interrupts with a yell. “Deathstroke has a bomb in his body and It’s running out of time.” With no one giving orders, the white Martians are motionless.​

    “Don’t forget the blue guy.” Zach moans from the ground nearby. “He’s the scientist in charge here.” The fore mentioned blue skinned man is cowering at the back of the room.​

    “No I’m not!” he squeaks out, fooling no one. Speedy races over and grabs him, rejoining us in under a second.​

    “Lets go before these things start attacking again.” Speedy informs everyone unease clear in his voice. We ride up to the main floor, with Artemis checking Zach’s wound in silence.​

    “Hey, I’m not dead so stop acting like I am.” Zach orders. “Besides I totally kicked ass before you guys got down here.”​

    “You call getting stabbed in the liver kicking ass?” Batgirl teases him. “I hate to get a look at you when the other guy wins.” Tapping a receiver in her helmet she contacts Robin. “Meet us at the Javelin, this place is going to blow any minute.”​

    “Were already on our way.” Robin confirms his orders. “Question ripped her pod right out of the wall while I grabbed the files. We can decide what to back at my place.” I give the scientist with us a painful squeeze on the shoulder.​

    “That will give us time to ask the good doctor here some questions.” I smirk down at his panicking face.​

    --------
    Notes

    Which magic guitar should i acquire.
    A: Val Hallen's from the Justice friends​
    B: Ember's from Danny Phantom.

    And if anyone can guess the name of the Starro on M'gann, they get a free add anything not already going into the story coupon and no matter how ridiculous i have to fit it in somehow. As long as its from a non marvel super hero cartoon made before 2008.

     
  11. Threadmarks: Chapter 10: My Favorite Martians
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 10: My Favorite Martians
    Cloaked Javelin
    Nevada Desert
    Jan 05/2010
    09:12 PM

    Were barely on board the barely visible jet and rising into the starry sky, when below us the Cadmus lab erupts in a ball of fire. All evidence of any building is erased. The crater look like a recent impact with the smoldering flames scattered down below.​

    We rock on board with the intense shock wave. Wally loses his balance and falls to the floor with a pained grunt. I stumble into the wall, glad we strapped Zach into a seat along the side of the aircraft already.​

    Robin has been in the pilot’s seat since we got on board. Our babysitter is standing stock still in front of the hibernation pod he had torn clear from the wall. The occupant inside the focus of everyone.​

    “Speedy, I need you to go through the files as quick as possible.” The Question demands from the teen getting back to his feet in embarrassment.​

    “Anything I’m looking for in particular?” He asks while rubbing his elbow with a wince.​

    “What did they put in my daughter’s head?” The faceless man responds to my shock and it seems everyone but Batgirl and Robin are likewise confused. “It seems the need for secrets is gone, you have turned my greatest failure into hope tonight.” He continues with a shaking voice.​

    “I will always be in your debt for this service.” His skin begins to ripple and melt, his black skin changing to a color of deep emerald, only a few shades darker then the Martian within the pod. His head widens and elongates, while his curls shrink back into his skull.​

    His nose widens and grows, making him look like a green Easter Island stature. His purple trench coat, pants, and hat are a sharp contrast to his jade skin and bright red eyes lacking any iris.​

    “When my world fell to the psychic plague, I tried to bring my family to earth.” Solemn words begin to explain his tragic past while Wally goes over the files he was given. “Hundreds across my world joined our abilities and created the Zeta Gate. It was a way to transport the uninfected to safety here on Earth.” He twitches, remembering the horror of his memories.​

    “I went first to test the device. I arrived in the Atacama desert, far from my desired goal. In the time it took them to adjust the coordinates, something went wrong.” His entire personality is really making sense if he went through all of this, I would have gone a little nuts too.​

    “Instead of shutting off, the gate remained open, allowing an endless swarm of the infected to emerge on Earth.” He drops his eyes to to floor of the aircraft before finishing his tale. “By the time I had arrived only my brother was left fighting along with the heroes of the time. He entered the portal with Robin’s grandfather Hawk.” He looks at the named member of our team with sheer gratitude. “Whatever they did worked and the portal closed behind them. Until now I thought all had been lost.” He smiles finally in sheer joy as tears stream down his face. “My daughter M’gann is safe.”​

    “Yeah it seems she got the same treatment as Zach and Tom.” Speedy interrupts, already done his reading. “Cadmus is giving any alien they grab memories of a human life as a fail safe to keep them loyal to Earth.” He explains, lacking any sense of tact. “Instead of a stoner comedy, she got the life of Janet Wood.” When none of us react he fills in our ignorance. “From Three’s Company.”

    “Oh.” Zach mutters quietly from his seat, clutching his side. “So when are we getting her out?” He demands everyone who awkwardly avoid eye contact with him. Well if her dad is going to be frozen in disbelief and everyone else won’t do anything, I will.​

    “Only people who have been in one of the tanks or are related to her get a vote.” I inform everyone and ask those involved. “So What do you two think? Were popping her out right?” I get a slow shaky nod from the Martian father, followed by Zach’s enthusiastic reply.​

    “Damn straight.” His words are resolute, sounding like any argument will be met with violence. Inside the tank on the nearly identical but more slender version of the Question, is a red Starro. Its eye has more emotion then any of the others. It follows my approach with an expression reminiscent of a puppy dog.​

    I smash the glass at the top of the tank, allowing it to evaporate into a green mist once exposed to the air. I reach inside the hole I made, catching her slumping form in my massive ivory hand. When her eyes open, the yellow eyes lock onto mine.​

    “Who are you?” Her voice is sweet and soft. As I pull my arm back out of the glass, her form shifts in a reverse of what the Question had done, ending with her as brunette white girl. Her Naked form has all of us gasping, startled. I turn away shielding her body from the others view.​

    “We have any spare clothes?” I ask as shocked as I am interested.​

    ---------
    Cloaked Javelin
    Nevada Desert
    Jan 05/2010
    09:18 PM

    Waking up is a strange sensation. I went to sleep in my bed but here I am standing, I think in a shower. I have an audience of odd looking people around me. Either I'm still dreaming or Cindy is pulling some kind of prank. Which is annoying, I have a shift at the flower shop this morning.​

    With a very muscular arm on my shoulder, holding me up, I see a very pale face with solid red eyes almost glowing in their intensity. A black star takes up a quarter of his face, centered on his left eye. Whoever Cindy grabbed for this did a great job on the makeup he’s wearing, it looks real.​

    “Who are you?” I ask quietly as my head clears from a massive hangover. My body shudders and I feel better, with a clear head. Or is that one clear head and one muddy set of memories? I remember growing up on Mars with my family but also have a lifetime hear on earth that is slowly fading in clarity.​

    “We have any spare clothes?” The good looking if oddly colored man in front of me asks, drawing my attention to a lack of clothes. Something I should not care about because Martians’ don’t wear clothes. Yet I remember growing up as a human as well and most care about nudity, like I do now.​

    “AHHH!” I shriek at the room in a panic, my voice shrill and high. “Get Out of my bathroom!” My orders go ignored even as the guy who I can see is wearing some kind of black leather vest and pants combo, gratefully turns around. If I wasn’t so exposed I would definitely have gotten a better look at that behind of his.​

    “Not a bathroom beautiful.” A cocky male voice calls out from behind my human shield. Shortly followed by the sound of a slap to someones head.​

    “Leave the girl alone Wally.” A stern but kind female voice admonishes the speaker. “She has to be freaking out enough.”​

    “Here M’gann.” A familiar voice speaks up. A purple trench coat is being presented to me by a green Martian hand. One that knows me. Grabbing the offered jacket I slide it on, tying it closed around my body. Once covered, I step out of what I first thought was my shower and around the milk white biker.​

    I’m surrounded by a very odd group of people, many I vaguely recognize from movies and comics my brother read as a kid. Batgirl is in a formfitting suit with no skin showing. Her bat logo is a deep purple and lacks any cape.​

    Some teenager in a red and yellow lightning themed outfit is giving me his best smirk. Beside him is a girl who looks like she is part tree. Bark skin and some kind of grass and leaf interwoven into a one piece bathing suit.​

    She has medium length green hair standing straight on end as she glares at the cocky boy who must be Wally, beside her. Based on what I have seen it looks like they are two thirds of a human relationship. I wonder if one of the others here completes heir triad?​

    <No daughter, they are siblings.> My father’s soothing mental voice explains privately.​

    Everyone knows the superman logo but the black haired teen with a mullet, is in a black version with silver and bronze accents. His cape is neat, looks like the night sky.​

    Robin but one with scarlet red wings is flying the plane. Wait, plane? Where am I?​

    “Were am I?” I demand firmly. The soothing voice I recognize but can’t quite place answers me.​

    “We have rescued you from the ones who held you captive.” When I look at the speaker, I’m shocked. My father is standing before me in a combination of both my memories.

    He is undeniably a martian, jade skin prominently on display. His human clothes, purple slacks and a green dress shirt have me certain this is a dream.​

    “Dad?” My voice is shaky and quiet again. He smiles and steps toward me, wrapping me tightly in his arms.​

    “Yes, its me.” His reply has me joining him in tears.​

    <Dad?> A slow dim witted voice asks in all of our heads. Reactions vary, Some like my dad and the albino guy fail to even flinch. Some like the lightning boy or the weird Superboy guy jump.​

    “I get that your freaked out.” A voice barely containing its fury comes from the black and metallic mullet man. “But I really don’t like people in my head. It was messed with my whole life apparently.” He explains seething.​

    “It was not her.” My dad jumps to my defense, glaring at my head for some reason. “It was the Starro.” Grabbing something on my head he pulls something slimy from my head. In my fathers hand, is a weird starfish thing. It has a massive eye and a large single yellow eye.​

    “Files said it was a new kind of Starro, supposed to be more effective then the older pale ones.” The ginger teen in yellow and red speaks up when no one else offers any information.​

    <These are what was used to give you memories of life here on Earth.> My father fills in my lack of knowledge again privately.​

    <Starro!> We hear happily in our heads in the slow voice from earlier.​

    “I think it has something wrong with if. The other ones were more aware.” The mullet guy grunts from his chair.

    <Friends?> The crimson starfish thing asks hopefully.​

    “Yes. I can be your friend.” The milk white biker answers with a voice full of pity which shifts to excitement. “Ooh we need a name for you if I’m keeping you. Any ideas?” He asks everyone. When no one answers him he looks up from the creature he has taken from my dad.

    “Fine then you have until we land to make a suggestion or I'm going with the name i have.” He mutters so i lightly touch his surface thoughts trying to cheer him up with a suggestion inline with his personality. The pride in his name overrides any other thought, he is so single minded.

    "Patrick is a good name." I offer quietly in support. The new pet owner smiles at me with his eyes but frowns with his mouth in a fake pout.

    "Spoiler!" He whines at me pitifully, which is a very odd look on such a tough looking person. "Next time make everyone else wait for the suprise even if you can't." His words are obviously in jest now, no hard feelings I can see.

    "Well meet Patrick Starro everyone." He holds the creature up to us all proudly. “What?” he defends himself when the others give him disapproving rejections. “He’s the only one of his kind we found who’s friendly.”

    “Oh, like you and your family?” the electric ginger asks tactlessly. Which even he recognizes when he winces and tries to back peddle. “I mean… Um… Patrick is a great name! Do you need any help finding out what he eats?” He shifts gears fully now.​

    “I’m more into chemistry but Iris is a whiz with biology.” He volunteers his sister beside him. “Once you know what he needs I can run all over the Tri-City area and pick it up for ya.”​

    <Friends!> The dopey voice gleefully calls out.

    “Yeah were all friends now.” Batgirl speaks up tersely, ending the playful mood. “Can everyone sit down and strap in. we need to get Zach patched up.” she ‘asks’ in a falsely calm voice.​

    “Yeah, this hurts a hell of a lot more then you make it look like dude.” Zach, the one with the mullet wheezes out, clenching his bloody side.​
    ------

    Notes:
    So another question i need to flip a coin over.
    All choices are valid and storylines will be used with other characters instead so don't feel like anything will be missing. I just really don't want alot of redundant power sets on the team, at least for season 1. I want to use Aqualass instead of Aqualad but still want Kaldur so am taking advantage of his dad being some regular pirate and going after a different target aside from Atlantis.

    Kaldur, should he and his story line be mixed with:
    A: Black Adam/ and my version of Shazam
    B: Dr Fate related
    C: A Street Shark
    D: a Member of Red Robo Family

    He is not being added until atleast three people weigh in combined on all three sites. I would rather hold him off and add him in way i know people want instead of rushing him onto team with something no one wants. I love his character but am very unsure of which way I actually wish to take him. Now if no one says anything as season is nearing end, I will flip a coin but do not wish to.



     
  12. Threadmarks: Arc 2: Chapter 11: Royal Firestorm
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 11: Royal Firestorm
    Flying Grayson Bird Sanctuary
    Star City
    Jan 20/2010
    11:28 AM

    “Oof.” Is my pained grunt as Shayera drives the handle of her mace into my sternum. I’m lifted a foot or so off the ground by her powerful blow, dropping to the dirt in the training yard. My audience of Zach, Roy, and Mr. Queen loudly cheer for my defeat.​

    “You done?” Shayera asks me with a smirk. Glaring up at her on from my back wheezing in the dirt, I refuse to answer. Instead I sweep my legs for hers, trying to bring her down to the ground with me.​

    “That’s what I like to see from my students.” She happily yells, leaping over my flailing feet. With her heel on my throat and mace raised above my head, she asks again. “Done now?”​

    Not even close. I need to get at least one hit in on her now that she isn’t holding back. I close my eyes, feigning acceptance of my lose.​

    Only to accept a broken windpipe to grab her leg with both hands tightly. Choking on my own blood, I swing her hard to the side before she can bring down her weapon. Shocked gasps from our crowd is my applause.​

    She slams hard on her side allowing me to throw my self on her in a grapple. Already my throat is fixed, each injury I have received, increasing my numbness to injury and speed of regeneration. Removing her mobility I slam my skull down hard against hers.​

    Once, twice, and three times should do it. My forehead drips blood down onto her face, who's blood it is I have no idea. She is dazed but smiling at my refusal to back down.​

    “Are you done?” I pant down at my mentor.​

    “Whoa, gnarly look man.” Zach calls from the bench when he sees my face.​

    “Yeah. Hardcore.” Roy concedes graciously. “I don’t have the muscle to power through her guard like that yet.”​

    “Not often someone can get a good shot in on my wife like that.” Oliver’s Irish brogue warns me. “Your in for it next session.” Man, am I glad this family is so cool. I bloodied the matriarch's face and here they are cheering both of us on.​

    “Hey I only ever beat her once in hand to hand.” Oliver admits. “And that was an accident. I told her to duck and she thought I was calling her names.”​

    “Well chicken and goose are used as insults, how was I supposed to know any better when dad and I had just arrived.” Mrs. Queen calmly replies from beneath me. I climb to my feet and offer her a hand, which she accepts.​

    Since you were able to do something neither of these two monkeys have done.” Shayera addresses me with respect. “I think we can lend you a weapon. And I mean a real one you hit get up close with.” She taunts her family with love. “You know a real girly weapon like a mace, Not one of those manly needle shooters.”​

    “Ha! You fight like a girl.” Zach jeers at me with a wide smirk. An expression he rapidly removes from his face when Shayera glares at him. “Which is better then I can fight.” He admits bashfully.​

    “That’s better, I heard from Lois that Supergirl is still kicking your ass up and down Newfoundland.” Shayera admonishes Zach. I am really glad we all got a mentor inline with our power set.​

    “How is M’gann and her dad doing?” Roy changes the subject for Zach’s benefit.​

    “Artemis and her sister are helping Janet, as she has decided to go by.” His dad explains. “Her dad found it easier to pretend to be a human for years.” He frowns sympathetically. “He sad it was really hard for him being closed off from everyone’s minds. He went a little wacky after a few years.”

    “What is that?” Zach interrupts, pointing above our heads with a worried look on his face.​

    A ball of fire is streaking across the sky, cycling between every color of the rainbow in a brilliant display. It descends somewhere into the swampland.

    A few seconds after it has passed from view, we feel impact. A massive shock wave erupts from beneath our feet, nearly knocking me off my feet.​

    The sound barrier being broken follows soon after with an incredible boom. Birds rise into the air enmass, panic filling all of them. Shayera looks us all over with a serious expression.​

    “Go find out.” She orders sternly. “Be careful and we can pick you out a weapon when you get back.”​

    “Well let me give Flash a call. If you three can wait ten minutes that is.” Green Arrow adds, sense of play gone.​

    Slaughter Swamp
    Star City
    Jan 20/2010
    12:41 PM

    “How can neither of us see were it landed?” Zach groans in frustration, floating above the waist deep muck I am forced to wade through. Robin is perched on a branch ahead, waiting for me to catch up.

    “Swampthing does not like any damage to the swamp.” Robin calls back to Zach. “He already grew it back, so whatever we find shouldn’t be a threat.” He smiles in excitement. “Or we would have heard Swampthing say hi.”

    “I saw a ship of some kind in the fire, it looked a gold egg.” Zach offers more information. I consider what Robin has said and look at the vegetation all around us.​

    “Were being guided somewhere.” I warn everyone. “Look the way ahead is actually getting less dense.” Ahead of us, my words are shown true. Bushes are pulling back, forming a trail even as roots are pulled into the ground before our eyes.

    “Yeah thanks for waiting for us.” A chiding feminine voice declares from behind us. Flower Child and her Twin are present, Speedy giving us a cheeky wave.​

    “Your dad told you he was calling our place. Why did you rush off before we could get here dude?” The speedster whines. “We’ve been looking for you for like forty minutes. Iris already knows were to go.”​

    “The swamp is telling me something alien but friendly awaits us.” Flower Child explains shyly.​

    “I may have thought he was asking your dad to take over.” Robin admits in embarrassment. “I wanted to leave before he could.”

    “Dude I overheard mom and dad talking a few days ago.” Speedy confides in everyone. “After Nevada, we aren’t getting sidelined anymore.”​

    “It sounds like some kind of junior team is being looked into for us.” Iris adds with a small smile.

    “Sweetness.” Roy cheers at the news. “It’s about time we got more action.”​

    “Everyone’s worried about what they learned from the blue scientist we grabbed.” She shrugs. “It sounds like something really big is going on this weekend. The Legion is going on high alert tonight.”​

    “So that’s why mom has us patrolling tomorrow.” Robin realizes aloud.​

    Soon we emerge from the muck, following Robin’s advance on the now dry ground. Instead of the hour it took us to go only a mile or two, were able to move quickly and in a straight line.​

    “that’s not me, I can’t affect so much at one time.” Iris admits to our curious looks. Maybe fifteen minutes of walking in silence has Zach call from behind me.​

    “Hold up. I hear someone singing.” And he’s right, someone is singing in an alien language. Or at least a human one I don’t recognize, which is many I admit.​

    “Be right back.” Speedy assures everyone before racing ahead in a streak of orange light.​

    “Lets stop him from getting Swampthing angry.” Roy shouts in a rising panic. “None of us want an angry swamp god thing!”​

    “Wally can annoy a monk.” His sister adds with a dread filled voice.​

    By the time we catch up, it’s to an astonishing sight. A statuesque women, maybe six and a half feet tall has Wall trapped in her grasp. The orange skinned woman has a mane of hair nearly reaching her feet. Its full of volume and curls concealing even greater length.​

    Her hair is a stark white color but not from age. The teenage girl looks happy as can be to have found anyone. She is nude with a very voluptuous figure. Although her modesty, if she has any is concealed from our view by the body of Wally.​

    She has the shocked ginger boy paralyzed in awe. Or maybe from the bone crushing bear hug he is in, either could be the reason really. Her rushed words come out in a babble, lots of R’s, T’s, A’s and M’s in her language as far as I can tell.​

    When no one responds to her greeting with anything besides confused looks, she shocks everyone further and probably sends Wally to heaven. Locking lips with her captive who’s arms are splayed to each side avoiding grabbing anything inappropriate, we all have varied reactions.​

    “Get off of her Wally!” from his angry sister, cheers of support from Roy and Zach, and my confused words.​

    “Why do we keep finding naked people?” I ask, rhetorically.​

    “Don’t question it until me and Roy find one too.” Zach shushes me while in the orange aliens grip Wally agrees.​

    “Yeah no complaints here.” he wheezes out. In slightly odd sounding English, the orange woman speaks at last in a language we can understand.​

    “Greetings new friends, we are so pleased to be meeting you all.” Her words are excited and full of joy. “We have escaped our captors at last.” Behind her I can see her golden ship is more of an escape pod. A flashing light is nagging at my mind but I can’t figure out why.​

    “Well here on Earth we were clothes in public.” Iris has fashioned a robe of woven grass and vines, handing it to our new arrival. “This will have to do for now.” Her words are clipped as she glares at her brothers skull.

    “Who is we?” Robin asks, catching something none of us had.​

    “I am Princess Koriand’r of Tamaran.” Her words give us half an explanation which has me wondering who else is here.​

    “You did say we earlier.” I point out helpfully. Now in her green robe, the teenage alien, sags in defeat.​

    “Apologies. My sister and I were experimented on by the Reach.” We all share confused looks as Kori continues her explanation.” My brother wished to be king, so he sold out our world.” Her eyes begin glowing red and her hair changes to a scarlet hue.​

    “He gave us and the heads of our parents to the Reach leader before a Red scarab was placed on him, as a reward.” She spits angrily. “We were held by the monsters for months as they looked for a way to make weapons of us.” Her red hair changes to indigo mixed with violet in the blink of an eye.​

    “My sister and I were merged into the Firestorm.” Her words are equally filled with love and sorrow. “I can feel her power merged with my own but I cannot hear her voice anymore.”​

    “When I emerged from my escape pod, I met the guardian.” She continues cheerfully, her hair now fully indigo. “He had me wait her for you while he fixed the damage from my crash.”

    Once she says this, I can feel myself being watched from every direction. The presence is overwhelming in its power before fading away.​

    “And why were you kissing my brother?” Iris demands with a hand on her hip.​

    “It is how the queens of Tamaran solved civil war in ages long past.” She shares with no sense of deception, a completely open and honest person even after her trauma. “A spell of translation was bound to our people. Now any language known is shared by kissing.” No more misunderstandings over language, would be a major shift in global unity I have to admit.​

    “Oh like grandpa Scott’s ring. It can do anything but affect wood.” He snickers mischievously at a memory. “Iris and mom were a handful for him as babies.”​

    “Shut up.” His sister flicks his nose in irritation. “At least we didn’t need a Legion food budget until our powers stabilized.” Sighing in defeat Wally goes silent for a few seconds at least.​

    “Anyway once we get you settled in I can totally give you a tour.” He confidently offers the princesses. Shocking everyone, she agrees.​

    “Oh yes, this would be most enjoyable.” She does know he was trying to flirt right? Because not even Wally expected that to work. “I would love to see much of your world as I seek allies to overthrow my brother.”

    “Babe, Consider me your second in command then.” The delusional ginger offers, clearly not considering what that would entail. I can see his sister considers warning him but the chance of being free from her twin has her remain silent for now at least.​

    “If you find a way, count me in.” How else am I ever going to find out more about where I come from anyway.​

    “Oh friends, I thank you.” Kori responds gratefully to the off the cuff offers. Above the trees, a metallic craft zooms above us. Her hair goes red again as she glares at the ship, a diamond shaped vessel of silver blue metal.

    “The Reach have found us. If you wish to keep war from your home, we must destroy the ship before it reports home.” She growls out, laying out the seriousness of the matter. We are found by some kind of tracking device on board the spacecraft, it turns towards us and opens fire.​

    Balls of blue plasma the size of golf balls, begin to impact the swamp all around us. Branches and even entire trees shatter from the blasts. It was an attack meant to reveal our location and it did that well. We stand in a nearly bare clearing only a few rocks and ditches allowed us any cover from the barrage.​

    “Earthlings. Return our property and we shall leave you further unharmed. Resist and I will level this entire area searching for her.” We hear a cruel voice announce from the ship. Before anyone can respond or even consider a course of action, the entire swamp roars in defiance.​

    From the smallest bug to the largest tree, nature screams at this invader. Heck even the mud is bubbling for all its worth.​

    -------

    Notes:
    I have seen everyone’s version of the green lantern rings and the guardians. My version are Magic space wizards. Which means Alan Scott’s ring is the standard version not a prototype. Hal Jordan is Cpt Atom, Guy Gardner is Shining Knight, John Stewart is Major Glory from Justice friends, Kyle Raynor is Rubberband. Which Means someone (well 2 someones) will be recruited eventually.​

    I will never have a light ring on my finger in this story so not me and Kryptonian's don’t need one either so it’s not us.

    Vlad, Imhotep, Dr Robotnik, Plankton, and Aku are all joining the Light along with the other changes. The Light has 24 members because the light touches the world every hour of the day, their influence being felt somewhere.​

    Question: Which filler villain should I use:
    A: Black Knight ghost : Scooby Doo
    B: Beebop + Rocksteady : TMNT
    C: Constructicons : Transformers
    D: Weather Wizard : Flash​
     
  13. Threadmarks: Chapter 12: When Nature Roars
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 12: When Nature Roars
    Slaughter Swamp
    Star City
    Jan 20/2010
    1:24 PM

    Emerging from the mud is a hand with each finger taller then I am. Made of vines, roots, and other assorted plant the arm extends into a fore arm and soon a second hand follows the first, rising skyward.​

    Rising beneath us, the ground shifts and cracks as the fauna comes together in defense of its territory. Our team is forced to move fast, or risk being joined with the mass of muck towering above us and rising beyond the trees.​

    Zach, Roy, and even our newcomer Koriand’r all rise into the air with ease, damn fliers.

    Beside me, Iris and Wally are equally unsure of a course of action. In seconds were already twenty feet or more in the air, so I react.​

    I grab Wally’s hand and throw him as high into the air as I can.​

    “Catch!” With a shout for one of our flier's, I break into a sprint. For such a bulky body I can still move far faster then I ever remember being able to as a human. Ooh, gym class would be so easy now.​

    I cross to dozen or so feet between Flower Child’s tense form and my starting position in seconds. Wrapping an arm around Iris, I lift her to my body cradling her.​

    Throwing us both off the edge of sky bound swamp, I rotate so my back is facing downwards. Remembering how sleeping people do better In car accidents, I call out my advice.​

    “Stay limp!” I warn Iris with a very manly bellow that was in no way a girly shriek.​

    Falling backwards off the rising landmass, I realize a giant head is forming before our eyes. The two hands beside it have formed into arms. Both hands are swatting at the blue diamond space craft, even as it fires a spray of plasma back.​

    Wally finds himself in a turnabout from what I assume are his usual heroics.​

    Looking up at him as we fall, I can see he was indeed caught. He had a far better landing then I’m about to as well.

    Descending from the sky gracefully, Koriand’r has Wally held in her arms bridal style. He really doesn’t seem to mind, playing it up for all he’s worth.​

    His arms are around her neck, as his body wracks with obviously fake terror. Why am I trying to plan everything out? Speedy is impulsive as hell and it seems to be working out.​

    Should I try going more with the flow like he does? Artemis always seems so stressed out and she’s planning for everything. I’m interrupted from my internal conflict as Iris, and I finally collide with the ground.​

    We actually land relatively softly in the muddy water beneath us with with a splash. It’s not to deep, allowing Iris to climb off of me onto dryish ground.​

    She offers a brown bark like hand to me. When I accept her hand, I realize two things.

    First thing is that even though she looks like she has rough and fairly thick skin, it’s texture is more like birch bark and the phloem of a tree. The softer inner bark that they make into rope and fiber.​

    The second thing I learn is she is at least a few times stronger then a baseline human. She easily pulls me to my feet with only a single hand.​

    Touching down beside us, Kori drops Wally to his feet. Maybe he wasn’t faking his fear of heights.​

    As soon as his feet are on the ground he drops to his knees, pressing his palms into the wet earth he whispers sweet nothings.​

    “Thanks. Both of you.” He finally speaks to us instead of his new love the mud. “I’m really not good with heights. I just froze up their.” He admits embarrassed.​

    “I should have known you could not fly.” Koriand’r admits. “Tamaranean men may be prettier by far then us females but they are weaker, lacking any ability to fly as well.” Iris chokes back some laughter as Wally indignantly rises to his feet.

    “Whoa, whoa, whoa.” He interrupts with his hand raised. “Only like half of us are human here. And none of us are what you can call normal.”​

    “Yeah we don’t know what I am.” I offer not really noticing the sympathetic looks. “It’s not so bad. I’m staying with Roy and his family for now.”​

    I do need to find something I can call my own eventually. Maybe Zach will get a place with me, if I can convince him I’m better then the Kent's that is.​

    Zach chose to go for a direct option it seems. Above us, he flew directly through the house sized ship.​

    He pierces a hole through the vessel. Slowing down enough, the two enormous hands of mud to clap it between its palms.

    Trapped inside the grasp of Slaughter Swamp and Swampthing controlling the defense, a blue glow begins to shine through the fingers.​

    The glow pulses several times before a sphere of energy emerges. Its tears through the surrounding swamp matter.​

    Bits of mud and pieces of vine rain down all around us. Showered in the debris, I can only groan. The alien vessel is still floating and has now learned we are a threat.​

    Like a swarm of wasps, nearly twenty figures emerge from he holes Zach punched through. From this distance all I can tell is they have some kind of rocket propulsion and energy weapons. I can tell because they rocket into the air and begin shooting at my allies in the sky.​

    “Scarabs!” The Tamaranean princess gasps in horror. “It was no accident we were able to escape near your world.” Her voice is filled with dread. We? Oh yeah, merged with her sister or something.​

    “Your world has been targeted for assimilation by the Reach.” She shakes her head in anger. Memories of the atrocities done to her and her people clear in her expression. “We must stop this ship from making contact with any who would sell this world out for power.”​

    Ok saving the world? This is huge. I signed up to get revenge on an evil corporation, am I really ready for this?​

    I don’t even have the negative thought in my head for a couple of seconds before I rally my nerves. Grinning with feral glee, I realize the truth.​

    “They aren’t ready for us.” I answer with all the confidence I have. Speedy and Flower Child beside us agree.​

    “We only have so long before reinforcements arrive.” Flower Child warns us. Robin definitely called this in.​

    “So unless we want to get sidelined we need to do this now.” Speedy declares with his chest puffed up. I consider everything I know of the situation before I make a rash decision.​

    “Iris.” She turns to face me when I address her. “You said you could hear the swamp earlier, right?”​

    “Yeah it feels a lot more human then any plant I know of.” She explains. Ok that works.​

    “Good can you talk to that?” I point at the behemoth that has now formed. Over fifty feet tall the creature swats at the still agile spacecraft.​

    “Yeah, he’s mad.” She answers hesitantly, unsure where I'm going with this.​

    “Speedy get Iris as close as you can to it and keep her from getting stepped on.” I address his sister once he agrees. “Iris, I need you to convince Swampthing to focus on the Scarab Warriors.”​

    “What of my duties?” Koriand’r demands, her hair and eyes flashing red before she can control her temper.​

    “Your getting me on board that thing.” I answer with a feral grin. “Were going to find out what we can and blow that thing up.”​

    “This is most pleasing.” Her eyes and hair have gone bright orange as her desire for revenge is near. She grabs me under the shoulders and rockets into the sky without another word.​


    Slaughter Swamp
    Star City
    Jan 20/2010
    1:31 PM

    I see the orange princess fly straight up past my mid air battle. She has Kyle in her arms because screw it he’s Kyle to me, I don’t care what he says. ​

    I lose sight of them when they enter the ship. I really don’t have time to get distracted anyway. I swerve to the left, a beam of yellow energy lances through my previous location. ​

    Rolling over onto my back, I retaliate. My beams of ice manage to strike one clean in its middle. The humanoid figures are all in some kind of black and blue mech suit, each with a variety of weapons. ​

    Choosing to act, I rocket back into the frozen one. A karate chop through its torso, has a shower of frozen bits shower down below. I hope Speedy and Flower Child aren’t below me. ​

    Robin Gives me covering fire with a quick volley of explosive arrows. For teens and heroes, we don’t seem as hung up on being non lethal as I would have expected.​

    Everyone on this earth has lived through at least one alien invasion, so I guess they don’t use kid gloves in these cases. ​

    “How long since you called Batgirl for help?” I yell at Robin who narrowly avoids another energy blast. ​

    “She should be here with help soon.” He shouts back. Ok more delaying tactics then I confirm to myself. Koriand’r emerges from the ship, trailing a mane of red flames behind her.

    Her clothes have burnt away as red flames dance along her skin, leaving her barely concealed by the liquid like flames. She gives her wardrobe no mind, laying waste to the warriors battling Robin and I.​

    Balls of flaming red plasma collide with several of our opponents, rapidly eating into and searing the aliens inside. The shrieks of pain, are thankfully brief.​

    “The Czarnian is inside the ship.” She informs us with a rage filled voice, which is kinda intimidating. “He is finding the facts so we can find any allies they are having.” Who’s the Sarneean? I think that’s what she said.​

    “Then lets take out out these pests while we wait.” My words are way cockier then I intended, we are outnumbered after all. ​

    Or we were I should say because one of the massive arms decided to lend a hand. Slamming downwards, it caught a few unable to dodge. Crushed against the ground by the unnatural force, that’s three down. ​

    “Thanks Jolly Green!” Robin happily call’s out to the goliath now helping us. His good cheer soon becomes an agonized expression and soon I know why.

    Shrill ringing and nails on a chalkboard combined into a solid wave of sound washes over me. I can feel my eardrums burst and vertigo set in. ​

    Tumbling from the sky, I smash into and through a massive willow tree. Robin and Koriand’r fell alongside me but were saved from impact by a outstretched hand of swamp flora. Their landing is only temporary however.​

    A massive blast of energy comes from the ship. Nearly the size of a cow, the crackling red energy strikes the wrist of the swamp thing. ​

    The Limb dries and cracks rapidly before exploding in a hail of wood and clay. Robin and Koriand’r falling again to the muddy ground.​

    I try to get back into the fray but I can barely stand. My balance is gone and I can’t hear a single thing besides ringing. I can only watch the battle of alien warriors and the massive swamp avatar.​

    From the south, I can see a new vessel rapidly approaching. As I’m considering how were going to pull a retreat with everyone so scattered, the new vehicle opens fire.

    A salvo of missiles are released from beneath each wing of what has to be the Batplane. They lock on to one of the alien warriors each, exploding in a ball of fire.​

    Not finished, the plane shifts its focus to the alien vessel. A pair of larger sidewinder rockets, shoot forward and crash into the interior of the alien spaceship. A series of explosions go off inside but instead of exploding like I feared, it begins to tilt. ​

    With one of its engines gone, the ship rapidly begins to drop beyond eyesight. It lands somewhere near the base of the mountains with Kyle on board, hopefully in a big enough piece to grow back from this.​


     
  14. Threadmarks: Chapter 13: Who’s Flying The Batplane
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 13: Who’s Flying The Batplane
    Legion Watch Tower
    Earth’s Orbit
    Jan 20/2010
    1:39 PM (EDT)

    In the conference room on board the space station housing Earth’s champion, just over fifty of arguably the greatest heroes alive today argue like school children.​

    “Why are we letting your kids and the lab rats deal with this?” Shining Knight angrily demands of the North American division, His emerald chain mail glitters as he slams his fist against the massive horseshoe shaped desk. “We formed to deal with invasion level threats and we have two unknown alien vessels in our atmosphere!” The Russian redhead growls in frustration.​

    “Calm yourself.” The faceless Question interrupts the outburst. “I checked the minds of both victims while we rescued my daughter.” His words are even and relatively quiet but everyone can listens. “Neither are an issue, both believe they are humans who woke up in alien bodies.”​

    “And I put Tom through enough training I am confident he won’t be a hindrance.” Dove snorts in amusement, her wings flare behind her white and blue costumed form. “He really doesn’t seem to get how fast he learns some things. It’s almost like his body is relearning how to do things his ancestors’ already knew how to do.”​

    “Genetic muscle memory was in the files he gave me.” Batman’s gruff voice adds. “All observation has shown he and Zod’s son are both very different from their fathers.” He pauses to allow everyone to let this sink in.​

    “Our best option is to keep guiding them as we have.” Staring around the table he continues. “Give them emotional ties and preferably heroic ones, guide their decision by limiting other observable options.”​

    “Let them choose to be heroes and just show them how?” Wonderwoman asks with a smile. “Your getting soft Bruce, maybe it’s time to consider retiring.” The Queen of the Amazons teases her old friend playfully.​

    “Hardly.” The Dark Knight replies without twitching. “I just know we need to focus our attentions on more important things.” His serious gravelly voice has everyone paying full attention, even the Flash brings his winged silver boots off the conference table.​

    “Indeed, I was able to learn Cadmus is in fact only one of many agents of a group known as the Light.” Oracle, once known as Black Canary joins the discussion from beside her husband. “Twenty four members as far as I can determine so far. And each one has different operations worldwide.”

    “Yes and what I learned from Dr. Drakken was not good.” The Question adds. “Each member of the Light is looking for ways to gain power of any kind.”​

    “Several more Cadmus labs have been identified.” Batman takes over again. “Each is trying to weaponize a different species of extra terrestrial.” Everyone around the table frowns at this bad news. “I will continue to send Artemis with this new team they have formed.” He finishes his report, awaiting input from his peers.​

    “I’m fine with that.” Alan Scott, the Green Lantern speaks up with approval. “They gave my grand kids a hand when everyone else was tied up with that hurricane.”​

    “I know Kara is looking forward to having more people closer to her age when she replaces me in a few years.” Superman volunteers, Star Sapphire beside him agreeing. “May as well make their team official then.”​

    “Indeed, that would make their dealings with the authorities easier.” Wonder Woman confirms with a thoughtful look on her face. “William may like to join with them. He has been complaining bout being the only boy on Themyscira.”​

    “Kida has been growing restless as well. “Queen Mera of Atlantis offers in support. “This could be used as a way to manage which missions we send our children and proteges on.”​

    “Agreed, Zatana has been itching for more action but my new foes as Dr. Fate are fare beyond her and her brothers current skills.” Giovanni Spellman now on board, approves the plan.​

    “We have a few others who could use experience either on a team or using their abilities before being ready for a seat at this table.” Ted Kord speaks up. “Why don’t we all consider the options and come back to this later.”​

    “Yeah, what emergency required all hands on deck?” Green Arrow asks. “Me and Shayera should be down their in case anything goes wrong. So this better be important.”​

    “It is, I assure you all.” The Question confirms calmly. “Simultaneous action is being planned by criminal organizations Beginning shortly after midnight tonight and will continue for several days.” Silence meets his declaration for several moments before finally someone speaks.​

    “So were going to be run ragged. Good time to have these kids coming on board then.” Sir Gardner the Emerald Russian concedes. “And I can see why we aren’t being sent down yet if it’s only one aggressive ship.”​

    “I’m concerned about why the enemies we can see on screen have armor so much like yours Blue Beetle.” Lois Kent, the Star Sapphire notices and says so.​

    Ted Kord, the second Blue Beetle is in a very similar set of armor to the alien warriors on the holographic display. Black metal armor with a texture similar to insect carapace covers his lover half, while blue metal plating covers his shoulders, chest, and face.​

    A pair of blue spikes protrude from each of his shoulders, concealing a rocket enabling flight. He has dozens of weapon configurations in his mech suit but it seems Kord Industries stole from aliens this time.

    “Well my predecessor may have found this robot bug thing in Egypt.” Ted answers finally. “Was hard as hell to sneak it out past Imhotep and his army. But when he slept the Scarab bonded with him, said it had no memory after a battle with the Sorcerer.” He shrugs in confusion.​

    “I never found anything after any of my tests to say otherwise and so after Dad died, I bonded with Blue a year later.” He frowns at the hostile force on screen. “Guess we can’t point fingers at the new kids if Blue’s from a bad family too.”​

    “We have reports that Arkham, Belle Reve, and the Hive Juvenile Detention facility are all experiencing oddities among prisoner behavior.” Dinah Wayne, the Oracle adds from her high tech wheelchair. “We are going to need to be on high alert.”​


    Slaughter Swamp
    Star City
    Jan 20/2010
    1:39 PM

    Watching the ship my only tie to my old life is on, crash in the distance fills me with dread. The explosion that follows its crash landing, has me even more worried. It was a big blue light, even if I can’t hear anything.​

    I don’t have time to go check. If he lived he’ll be fine, if he died. Well I can deal with that if I have to later.​

    Rising from the mud like angry wasps is a dozen or so of the surviving enemies. The black and blue insectoid armor is damaged by the missiles. However each still presents a deadly threat with the array of weaponry on display from them.​

    Wind whips past my face, kicking up some swamp debris and flinging it around. Above me the Batplane hovers long enough for two figures to drop to the ground before flying off after the downed spacecraft.​

    Batgirl and someone I don’t recognize descend from the air land beside me. The stranger is wearing a form fitting purple body suit with a darker cape that comes to her waist. Her face is concealer by a violet hood the same shade as her body suit.​

    Beneath her hood is a dark purple mask, nearly black it’s so dark. She has dark blue boots and gloves to go with her blue utility belt. She gives a shy wave upon landing to go with Batgirl’s nod.​

    Batgirl opens her mouth, I assume to either give orders or to find out what I know but I can’t read lips.​

    “I CAN”T HEAR.” I explain at what feels like a normal volume. “ROBIN ME AND THE ORANGE PRINCESS WERE TOO CLOSE TO AN EXPLOSION.” Both of the covering their ears and flinching, tells me I was way to loud.​

    <Artemis, I mean Batgirl say’s we need to make sure none of the invaders get away.> I hear a shy female voice in my head. <Our Father’s have entrusted this task to us while they prepare for a greater threat.>​

    “OK.” I reply at half my earlier volume, which is still to loud.​

    “Let’s find the others and take care of these guys.” I respond, finally at an appropriate volume. Third time’s the charm.​

    <The one known as Speedy is hiding behind that tree waiting for us to finish so he can scare you.> The purple garbed girl answers once Artemis points at something behind me.​

    <Hey no spoilers!> I hear an indignant Wally’s voice in my head.​

    <That is actually a pretty good code name for you Janet.> Artemis’ confident and alluring voice fills my head. Maybe she would be down for some one on one time when things settle down.​

    Everyone turns to look at me.​

    “Did I say something?” I ask cautiously. Wally snickers behind his hand, finally having joined everyone.​

    <Batgirl asked me to link everyone psychically since you and the other two are deafened.> The now identified Janet explains. <Your thinking a little loud.>​

    <Oh.> I think, aiming my thoughts outwards consciously now.​

    <Yeah we all heard that.> Wally teases me with a cheeky grin on his face.​

    <Doesn’t matter right now.> Artemis saves me from further embarrassment. <We got some invaders to take down. Speedy and Ultraboy, go fast and keep them unsteady.> She orders firmly.​

    <Robin I want you to keep them from going airborne. No Escapees> Artemis thinks to the two above us. <Spoiler, were going to be engaging directly with our new friend. Princess can you join us for combat, we can really use your fire power.>​

    <Affirmative leader Girlbat.> The excited voice of the new ally joins the mental dialogue. <We will be bringing the heat.>​

    <What do I call you by the way?> Wally asks with interest clear in his mind.​

    <Call us Blackstar.> The princesses answer. <We will not answer to the name the Reach gave us.>​

    <Aggh!> I hear Wally scream in pain. His body goes flying into the shrubbery behind us.​

    The Reach warrior who carried out the attack, aims his energy cannon at Batgirl next, forcing me to act.​

    “Let’s see what happens if I try to squish you!” I roar in anger. Kid gloves are off, I don’t care how much I hurt any of these freaks. Two of my friends may be dead, I’m not letting anyone else get hurt today.​

    My roar and leap over the girls head’s, draws attention to me. Changing my leap into a guided flight I strike to shooter in the face with punch going well over four hundred miles an hour.​

    I feel if not hear the helmet collapse along with anything inside, leaving me free to rocket after the next alien bringing a weapon to bear.​


    Reach Ship
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    1:38 PM

    Standing over the unconscious body of the only alien on board, I try to find something of value on his computer.

    Of course having zero experience with the language and style of technology has let me open a single file. I think, maybe I closed on.​

    Batman’s getting another computer I guess. He really has to get me something good for Christmas now. I reach for the base of the system and lift, remembering to bend my knees.​

    Tearing it free from the floor, I realize I have no way down now. Maybe Koriand’r should have stayed. Well no use whining over milk I already drank, or something like that.​

    Rallying my nerves I get ready for another fall. Man I really should have gone with the name Falling Boy.​

    Getting a proper grip, I begin to haul the alien computer system back down the silver blue hallway. It’s only a short trip to the exit Zach punched in the ship, I may even be able to flag a flier down when I get there.​

    When I finally to make to the section of the ship with the metal torn through, I see I may be in for more trouble then I assumed.​

    Good news. Reinforcements have arrived. Bad news. Looks like whoever is flying the Batplane has no idea I’m on board. Really bad news, that looks like missiles are incoming.

    The rockets impact the ship with explosive force. I can hear one engine sputter and die, causing the ship to tilt but thankfully not explode. Beeping from above has me notice on missile carried a bomb instead beeping faster and faster.​

    Looking out the hole, in preparation of my escape, I realize the ship is angling dangerously close to the Sanctuary. Not going to happen on my watch.​

    Decision made, I toss the computer from the ship before racing back to the flight deck. I slide into the pilots chair and replicate what I saw the Reach soldier doing.​

    Slipping both hands inside an arm hole on the console before me, I find a cold blue gel. I continue and find a bar inside each for my hands to grasp. Once I do, I can feel the ship react to my slightest tough.​

    Slowly, since I only have one engine, I manage to angle to listing diamond ship towards the mountains and a lake I can see at the base of them. Deciding it’s better to have a captive for answers if the computer is useless, I grab the pilot and fling him over my shoulders.​

    Running down the now very familiar hallway, I emerge back were I began. Watching the ground approach, I prepare to leap once we’re over the lake. If I was able to aim correctly that is.​

    Oh and before the bomb goes off, can’t forget that. Clenching onto the torn metal I can only wait in suspense for the water to show. And hopefully soon, the beeping is going so fast it’s become a buzz.​

    NOTES:
    Well that's a few hints for future members. All three will be added in arcs immediately after each other but i have no clear preference on order.
    So what order do you want to see the the appear.
    A: Zatana Zatara/Sabrina Spellman fusion
    B: Billy Trevor(Batson). Son of Wonder Woman.
    C: Kida(from Disney's Atlantis) as a daughter of Aquaman and Mera
     
  15. Threadmarks: Chapter 14: Cadmus in the Woods
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 14: Cadmus in the Woods
    Crystal Lake
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    1:42 PM


    Ignoring my hatred of getting wet, I am barely able to keep my hostage’s head above water. Furiously paddling for shore, I rock in the wake the ship creates crashing into the crystal clear water.​

    Seconds after the alien craft crashed, it explodes in a massive detonation. The lake is able to contain most of the blast thankfully.​

    The waves generated propel my shaking body towards shore. Crashing into the sandy beach with the still unconscious alien, I can only groan in relief.​

    My captive is a thin, four armed, hairless humanoid with slimy greenish brown skin. It’s tall and looks like if it had more room to maneuver on the bridge of the ship, it would have been a challenge.​

    Wringing out my sodden hair, I toss my leather jacket on a tree branch. The Batplane descending, has me take a good look around the shoreline.​

    A dock with several canoes is not far from me. Just up the bank is two rows of five cabins bracketing a large A-frame lodge. On the side of the cabins opposite me I can see the Batplane landing in the center of an archery range.​

    Why does this place seem so familiar? Ever since I hit the water, I have been able to feel the presence of something watching me. Whatever this is doesn’t feel nearly as friendly as Swampthing did, I need to be on the look out.

    Grabbing the four armed alien, I sling him over a shoulder and begin walking towards the landing aircraft. Artemis is going to get a scolding, telling us to be careful and she shot me out of the sky with out radioing.​

    Remembering I have a radio I tap at the receiver in my hippo skull cap. When I get only static in my ear, I can only blame being submerged in the lake.​

    “Yo! Star Guy!” A guy in a hockey jersey for the Gotham Bat’s. It’s got a black background with a yellow circle and black bat inside it on the chest. Very classic Batman in my mind.​

    It goes well with his goalie mask and long black pony tail hanging down to his waist. In one hand he carries a hockey stick, resting it on his shoulder for balance. He waves while his companion only raises her head in greeting.​

    “Sorry for shooting you down dude.” He apologizes for her since it’s clear she won’t. “Jade has an itchy trigger finger.”​

    “You shouldn’t have been on board by yourself in the first place.” The women in a black body suit with a white stripe defends herself. “The Batplane detected no humans on board so I took my shot.” She crosses her arms across her chest in protest, long purple gloves covering her forearms.​

    “It’s all good.” I assure them. “Needs of my friends out weigh the needs of me. And they were the ones getting shot at before you showed up.” Really no way Artemis’ older sister had any idea I was up their, so why hold a grudge?​

    “Good to see you got one of them for interrogation.” Jade changes the subject. Her facial expressions behind her purple mask that extends into a spike over each eye, have softened visibly in relief at my response.​

    “Yeah, Question will get all the good stuff out of this goon.” The hockey enthusiast agrees before introducing himself. “I’m Sportmaster, nice to work with you.”​

    “Yeah whatever Jason.” Huntress teases her companion. “Code names are really only to keep confusion down in battles now. With four John’s on the Legion its kind of necessary.”​

    “And for marketing our likeness.” Jason grunts out in his defense. “We don’t all have a billionaire family.”​

    “Let’s get this guy on board and get back before my sister and your friends finish with the fun.” Jade commands in a tone that is a more refined version of Artemis’ no arguing voice.​

    “We may have a problem with that.” Jason interrupts with a voice rising in panic. “Looks like someone came to say hi.” He points behind me with his hockey stick.​

    When Jades eyes widen and she drops into a fighter’s stance, I feel my blood begin to pump in excitement. I quickly turn around and see what has both of them so freaked out.​

    A teenage girl with a ponytail of blue hair kind of like glowing fire, approaches. She floats a few feet above he ground, wearing an orange shirt and skirt combo. Her skin is pale but unlike mine hers is more of a deathly pale grey.​

    She has thick black mascara covering her eyes behind her thick round glasses. In her hands she carries a red guitar that has a design of twin blue fire balls.​

    She gives us an eerie grin once she sees we all notice her. Lifting her guitar she begins to strum.

    An unearthly chorus begins to play, filling my head with emotions and thoughts I was completely unaware of having.​

    Rip of Jade’s arm and beat Jason to death with it. Why would I do that? Fighting against the urges rising in me, I can only struggle in silence.​

    No longer able o even speak of my own accord, I am forced to watch helplessly as Jason walks down to the dock. With no hesitation in his stride, he walks over and off the end.​

    As I wait for him to surface in vain, I lose coherence amid the rock anthem of ‘Nothing’s gonna stop us now’.​



    Fear Facility
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    1:49 PM

    I regain awareness if not control of my body, as I am being walked through a hallway. On each side is a glass cell with most containing a frightening occupant.​

    One of the inhabitants is a silver unicorn with a bloodstained horn. Beside it is an amphibious creature that looks straight from the black lagoon, oddly it is wearing human clothes. A white long sleeve shirt and torn blue pants. I think it even has an orange scarf or the remains of a cape around its neck as well​

    On the other side of the hallway I catch a glimpse of one of the dolls from the mall. A three foot tall red haired replica of a boy, wearing blue overalls over a red sweater.​

    The final prisoner i see before exiting the hallway, is a werewolf in shredded brown corduroy pants and a likewise ruined green T-shirt. It has a blue dog collar on its neck with a gold tag I am unable to read.​

    I walk alongside Jade’s dazed form into a new corridor, one of concrete floors and plain brown walls. The Ghost girl who reminds me a lot of Velma, leads us into a door at the end of the hallway.​

    We enter a science lab that contains a wide array of horrific looking tools. The concrete floor slopes into the center of the room were a drain is surrounded by bloodstains. Two operating tables are on either side of the floor drain, both with heavy duty straps.​

    Along the far wall is around twenty flat screen monitors, half or so remain as black screens. The other half are on and displaying some figures I recognize and others I only assume are equally powerful.​

    Lex Luthor’s bald head is easily recognizable on one screen, while the screen above him displays the face of Plankton. The tiny green creature glares at the screen arrogantly.​

    Also on display that I recognize is Vlad from Danny Phantom, the vampire ghost dude. From the picture I saw at the Grayson’s, I can tell that the ancient looking guy with gold wings is Imhotep.​

    I see a female Nick Fury in a blue bodysuit and with an eye patch. On the screen below her is the grinning face of Dr. Robotnik. His massive red mustache is easily recognizable. I can also point out the brain like body of Krang, his pulsating form as gross now as when I saw it in Nevada.​

    An Asian woman in a black and red ninja outfit, A Greek woman in gold and green robes, A middle eastern woman with a gold crown and a very fancy pant suit, An old white woman in a tweed suit, some kind of robot thing made of black metal with two massive glowing red eyes, and a hairy savage looking man in a suit are the ones I can’t identify.​

    An emaciated male figure watches the screens. The man has a burlap mask and wears a set of old blue overalls over a yellow plaid shirt. On one hand he has a glove with syringes in a Freddy Krueger style.​

    “I understand Governor Luthor.” The twitchy man answers one of the three screens that show a glaring face. “I have reacquired Project Lobotomy, as well as the Huntress. Her paramour I dealt with, I had wanted a zombie in my collection for while now.” The bald head of Lex Luthor nods in consideration.​

    “Well done. Once the other young heroes arrive raise the force field until Operation Fireworks is over.” Luther smiles deviously as he waves of any concern of intervention. “We only have to move the Operation forward by a few hours to keep the Legion from interfering.”​

    “Agreed.” Vlad Masters, a silver haired man in a red suit of equal quality to Luthor’s speaks up. “To ensure this opportunity does not slip through your shaking fingers, I will be arriving shortly.” He glares at the shaking man before all the screens. “Since you already made a sacrifice of Sportmaster, open the portal now Scarecrow.”​

    “Of course Minister Masters.” The now named Scarecrow assures his boss hurriedly.​

    “Send the alien you acquired to me when the drama is over, I want to see what’s in his head.” The elderly white woman demands.​

    “Who say’s you get the Reach captive, this is our first chance to acquire one of our ‘allies’ undetected.” Plankton yells, his tiny form quivering in indignation. “And it was supposed to be my turn to get an alien next.”​

    “Yes Ocean Master, this is a matter we need to discuss but it can wait until we have transferred to Reach captive to a more secure facility.” Imhotep agrees with Plankton. He frowns at his allies for their behavior. “We do not have time to bicker among ourselves on the eve of our complete and total victory over this worlds supposed heroes.”​

    “Well said Imhotep.” Lex Luthor takes control of the squabble. “Your forces are ready to move on Atlantis correct?”​

    “Yes, yes, I know.” The inch tall green bean shaped thing responds arrogantly. “My new pet’s will provide all the fire power I need TO CRUSH ATLANTIS!” He trails of with mindless cackling for a few moments before coughing into his elbow.​

    “Sorry about that, got carried away.” Plankton apologizes to his peers.​

    “Circe. Your ready to take Themyscira before the Amazons can rally?” Lex continues as if the outburst had never occurred.​

    “Of course and once I do I will be able to find the Rock of Eternity.” The Greek sorceress calmly responds. “I only need a single surviving royal to reveal it’s location after all.”​

    “And our people are in position at the meta-human prison’s, We are ready as soon as our mole in the Legion begins to Operation.” Lex ends his words by giving a curt goodbye and having his screen go black.​

    “Splendid, then I will also be coming to the Facility.” The Asian woman cheerfully responds. “Bruce may have kept my daughter from me but Jade will fulfill her destiny tonight and rejoin me.”​

    “Yes Mistress Al’Ghul. I will have everything ready for you and Minister Master’s arrival.” Scarecrow’s shaky voice assures the members of the Light. “Project Lobotomy will be prepped for his procedure once you have arrived”​

    This really does not sound good. I need to do something and fast. Mustering every ounce of my willpower, I raise my left arm.​

    Slowly and shaking the entire time I bring my arm up behind the Scarecrow’s unaware form. I close my hand into a fist, preparing for action.​

    “Dr. Crane, behind you.” Circe warns the scientist. Yeah, I guess I overlooked the fact that all of them were looking at me the entire time.​

    “Naughty boy, I’m going to have to show you why none of my pets resist anymore.” The scientist whirls to the side and jabs his outstretched pinkie at my neck.​

    I feel a small prick before my entire body locks up. It feels like lightning is coursing through my body while each of my bones is shattering repeatedly.​

    “I find fear is a great teacher.” My captor taunts me sadistically as I writhe on the floor in agony. “And fear of pain is even better.” He gazes over my form before asking rhetorically. “Now what shall I do with you? I think you should survive having your head turned around.”​

    As I pass out from agony, I only hope I wake up recognizable.​
     
  16. Threadmarks: Chapter 15: Beach Brawl
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 15: Beach Brawl
    Crystal Lake
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    4:07 PM

    <Where the hell are they?> Zach’s frustrated mental voice comes from the beach, Kyle’s vest held loosely in his grip. So far, that’ been the only sign anyone survived the crash.

    <Good question.> Artemis responds for everyone, prompting me to volunteer my services.

    <I can try to find them.> I offer with some hesitance, still unsure of my place on the team.

    Getting agreement from Artemis, I expand my awareness looking for the minds of or missing allies. I feel the minds of the team and push my self beyond them. The mind’s of the wildlife is easy to ignore, allowing me to narrow my search.

    I don’t find any of them in the camp, not in the cabins or hiding in the woods either. When I expand my senses even more, I do find one of them. Beneath the lake I can sense the mind of Kyle shrieking in agony.

    <I found Kyle.> My words have everyone stop their fidgeting and focus on me, no pressure or anything. I’m happy to know who I am again but the blissful fake life from in the pod was a lot less intense.

    <He’s under the lake.> Faces around me drop, fearing the worst. <He’s not dead!> I hurry to assure everyone. <He is in a lot of pain but I can try to connect with him.>

    <Do it.> Zach orders firmly. <Were not leaving my buddy down there.> He stares at the lake, scanning his vision back and forth across the water.

    I extend a mental tether towards Kyle, bringing him into our group link. This was a very bad idea, instantly the pain coursing through our missing friend is shared with all of us.

    “YEAAARRGGHH!” Echoes from the lip’s of someone, maybe me or maybe all of us. The shriek of pain is brought forth by the unbearable agony surging through the mental link.

    Wally is on his knees, clenching his temples as tears stream down his face. Beside him his sister Iris has gone near catatonic from the pain, laying on her side in the sand with barely a twitch of motion.

    Roy fared only slightly better, clenching his head as if experiencing a migraine. Zach and Blackstar are barely even flinching, only offering a grunt and trying to gain their friend’s attention.

    <Dude! It’s me> His words are filled with worry. <I can’t see you in the lake, where are you?> The desperate pleas continue, while Artemis signals for me to cut the worst affected from the link.

    Fear Facility
    Crystal Lake
    Jan 20/2010
    4:08 PM

    When I regained awareness the first few times, it was only for a few seconds before the agony overwhelmed my every nerve again, bringing me back to the land of unconsciousness.

    This time, the pain is still present but I can sense someone’s gentle and caring presence. Before I have time to warn the person, my pain is shared with her. Yeah that’s definitely a female mind based on the memory feedback I’m receiving.

    So Janet remembers her fake life as well as me and Zach do. She’s having a harder time time then Zach is at adjusting. Her twin set of memories must be harder to distinguish then we figured. Once they get me out of here we need to invite her over more.

    I’m able to sense multiple other minds sharing in my drug induced torture but only for a moment. Shortly after being linked with the others, I feel half their minds dropped from the connection.

    <Dude!> That’s Zach. He’s going to get me out of here, he’s never let me down yet. He ran with me in gym instead of actually getting a good grade, no way he’s leaving me down here with these freaks.

    <Where are you?> Oh, well that’s not good. I have no idea where I am.

    <Be careful.> I choose to warn instead. <They have some freaky monsters locked up here and I heard them talking about an Operation Fireworks.> Opening my eyes, I chance a glance around my surroundings.

    Vlad and Talia, the ninja lady arrived somehow since I was knocked out. They stand around Jade’s body on the other lab table in the room, discussing some kind of ritual. Ok, going to need to do something about that.

    “Raising force field now.” The Scarecrow’s deranged voice informs his bosses from across the room.

    “Good, deal with them as you see fit.” Vlad orders, barely even turning to acknowledge the Scarecrow. “We can’t have the children interfering with the ritual.”

    “Yes, nothing can interfere with bringing my dear Jade back into the family business.” Talia agrees with Vlad, her eyes glowing red and an aura of shadowy flame surrounds her briefly before vanishing.

    “Excellent, releasing subjects nine through thirteen now.” The Scarecrow cackles in glee. I’m begging to overcome whatever drug I was pumped full of, the pain fading already without a refill of my IV drip.

    <Some of those monsters are coming your way, get ready.> I warn my team. <I’m going to try and learn what I can and stop them from doing whatever they’re doing to Jade.>

    <What about Jason?> Batgirl notices my omission. She really is Batman’s kid if she caught that.

    <He didn’t make it.> I admit after a short pause, remembering his trance-like walk off the dock.

    Crystal Lake
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    4:09 PM

    The blood chilling howl of a wolf comes from the woods beyond the archery range. Fog begins to swirl around the grounds soon blanketing us all.

    “What’s going on?” Wally groans from his knees. “This is starting to really freak me out.”

    “We got hostiles incoming.” Artemis informs those who were dropped from the link. <And it sounds like they look monsters, so be ready.” Her orders are firm and emotionless.

    Our leader hides her unease well but being linked still, I can feel her nerves.

    <Do not worry Batty-girl.> Blackstar offers her support, feeling Artemis’ worry rising as well. <We will rescue your sister and vanquish whatever evil is set upon us.>

    <Yeah but this seems bigger then were ready for.> I voice my concerns. “Dad said to call things like this in before we investigate.”

    <Mom and dad are probably wondering what’s taking us so long anyway.” Roy agrees begrudgingly. “I’ll call this one in.”

    “Look ou-” Zach tries to warn us as a humanoid form charges from between the cabins.

    A hulking man-wolf nearly seven feet tall barrels towards us. Loping swiftly on all fours, the creature rushes at the princess from behind.

    Blackstar can’t react fast enough, the outstretched claws inch as if in slow motion towards her unprotected back. A twisted grin spreads across the werewolf’s snarling maw as it nears its prey.

    “Getawayfromheryoumangymutt!” Blurts out Wally as he accelerates faster then any of us had seen him do so far.

    He twists around Blackstar’s body and leaps into the side of the snarling beast. His outstretched palms crackle with electrical discharge as he slams them into the wolf mans shredded green T-shirt.

    Both tumble along the ground, rolling a dozen yards down the beach from the impact. The arcing electricity keeps the savage from tearing into Wally, who lays pinned beneath it.

    Blackstar’s worried expression changes to a determined one. Her white eyes begin to glow green, while her ivory mane changes to a shimmering emerald flame. Her second set of gifted foliage robes burns away, leaving her body only concealed by a flaming green aura in the shape of a bikini.

    “THIS ONE IS OURS.” She informs us all. She’s clearly forgotten half the team is deaf and that she’s one of them based on her lack of volume control.

    She rocket’s towards the recovering werewolf, slamming her flaming fists into it before it can fully recover from it’s shock. Focused on their fight as we all are, no one is ready for the reinforcements to join the fray.

    A purplish-gray, demonic looking creature with blood red shoulder length hair glides silently down at us. The reptilian-bat woman, is wearing a torn and stained purple dress. She grabs Roy and only his yelp of pain alerts us he’s being carried off into they fog filled sky.

    Artemis flings herself into the sky after the fleeing creature with her rocket boots and under arm wings. The fog is doing nothing to hinder her mask’s high tech vision but the rest of us are nearly blind here.

    A splash comes from the lake as a bear sized form leaps onto the sand beside us. It unleashes a fierce roar and in this thickening fog I can only vaguely make out a body shape that looks like the creature from the black lagoon.

    It’s arm’s snake down and grab Iris by her hair before a second mighty leap sends it back into the water with Flower Child in his webbed claws. Her scream of pain is drowned out by the mountain lake swiftly.

    Zach vanishes in a blur, a trail of fog swirling after him as he dives into the water in pursuit. On my own, I struggle to decide who to help.

    My indecision doesn’t long, a pale girl in an orange dress descends through the fog before me. Her flaming blue hair is tied back in a ponytail but her ratty orange sweater and red skirt do not go with her eerie glow.

    Her eyes narrow at me from behind her glasses and she snarls. She lifts an electric guitar and begins to play.

    Hauntingly sweet music has me begin to sway in the wind, my earlier concerns of fighting the monsters is long gone.

    <Janet!> I can hear some guy faintly as he tries to distract me from the concert.

    <Get rid of your ears now!> What? Why would I do that? As I choose to ignore the voice in the back of my head, the voice chooses to be hear.

    <This is the song that never ends!> The voice begins singing. If you can call what sounds like a sack of piglets drowning in molasses crossed with an orangatang getting lucky with an orca, singing that is.

    <Get rid of your ears before she kills you like she did Jason.> The voice in my head was Kyle, still linked and waiting for his chance to help. I do as he advises, my ears melting away leaving me deaf but immune to this phantom girls music.

    Ignoring my rising nerves, I do like dad taught me. Shaping my hands into whips, I charge through the fog at the ghost girl. My sudden flight towards her has her stiffen in shock, allowing my left hand whip to wrap around her guitar.

    Yanking it from her grasp, I continue spinning in the air. As my arm stretches gaining momentum with each rotation, I bring the stolen guitar hard against my foes face.

    She slams face first into the sand, stunning her momentarily before her blue hair begins to flare. Struggling to her feet, she snarls at me from behind a shattered pair of glasses.

    “Oh jinkies, I can’t see a thing with out my glasses.” Well this got a whole lot easier it seems.

    “Good thing I can smell the scared skank from a mile away!” Her angry shriek has my confidence vanish. Her hair explodes in a pillar of blue flame, surrounding her in a cloak of fire.

    I remember fearing fire on Mars but my memories of life as a human are more recent, allowing me to fight through my blind panic somehow. The Girl pulses intensely before streaking towards me too fast to dodge.

    Changing my molecular density to a gas, my foe goes right through me and continues on like a rocket. She goes clear over the lake, burning a tunnel through the fog.

    The view through the fog, allows me to watch an energy wall like the one around the bird sanctuary shimmer into existence and discharge a blast of energy into the ghost. She twitches and writhes for a few seconds before the energy build up overloads her body.

    A small explosion of neon blue light signals her end. Only a small cloud of ash blowing away in the wind, marks her existence. I pant and drop to my knees, unable to believe I had just killed someone.

    <Hey, don’t worry about that.> Kyle reassures me even as he endures his own torture. <She was a ghost, so all you did was help her pass on instead of being trapped here on Earth.> Yeah, that’s true.

    Getting back to my feet I can hear the others engaged in the own battles in the fog. As I try to link up with everyone again, I can sense a muted mind approaching from the lake bed. Only pure rage can be sensed in whoever approaches.

    Staring at the lake’s surface, I desperately search for any sign of the approaching threat. I feel relieved for a second when I see Jason’s hockey mask emerge from the water.

    My relief is short lived however, a few more steps reveal the dead skin behind the mask and no conscious thought can be found, he’s only mindless fury now.

    He focuses his gaze on me before raising an arm from the water, a machete clenched in his grip. His eyes promise solemn and painful death, His grunty roar agrees.
     
  17. Threadmarks: Chapter 16: Born on a Wednesday
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 16: Born on a Wednesday
    Crystal Lake
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    4:11 PM

    Surging through the crystal clear water, I pass the submerged body of Sportmaster laying on lake bed. I notice he’s beginning to move and kind of looks like he’s standing.​

    That movement has to be from my wake. Right?​

    Ignoring the morbid sight for now, I continue to pursue the swamp monster and Iris. I can’t afford to let them get away or we’ll have no idea were their coming from. Narrowing my gaze on the fleeing amphibian man, I pick up the speed.​

    As swift as I am, this creature is faster. Damn cape is aerodynamic, not aquadynamic it seems. A steel pipe big enough for a car to drive through, rises from the silty ground at the deepest portion of the lake.​

    Watching Iris’ green hair vanish into the lead lined opening as the creature drags her in feet first behind it, has me make a quick decision.​

    <Frog-man brought Iris into a pipe.> I inform whoever is still linked up. <I’m going in.> Giving Artemis no chance to dissuade me, I enter the dark pipe before it can finish retracting into the silt.​

    <Be Careful.> Artemis offers instead of the expected call to regroup. <We’ll find a way down once we deal with ours.> I can feel the tension in her words and her stress at always needing to be the one with an answer.​

    <No worries.> I assure her. <I’ll grab our friends and bring Jason’s body up for his family. We got this.> I can feel her mind relax even just a little bit so I’m going to count that as a win.​

    <No need!> Janet, M’gann, or whatever she’s going by interrupts frantically. Really, her and Kyle should get together and discuss why they both seem so ready to abandon our lives. Fake or not, it’s the lives we lived.​

    And what is it that philanthropist guy says, I think therefore I am. So if we remember those lives, they’re at least real to us. So why just throw them away like they both are?​

    <He got out of the lake himself.> Spoiler for now I guess, continues. May as well take advantage of the code name thing since I’m getting confused again. <And he looks very dead.>​

    As I descend through a snaking tunnel of pipe I have to ignore their fights for now. In front of my is my prey, Iris nowhere in sight.​

    Oh. she better be fine, I growl in anger before launching myself like a torpedo at my amphibious foe. It rolls around me gracefully, slashing at my side as I pass by.​

    Searing pain surprises me as his claws score a blow. Blood seeps from my the shallow wound just below my ribs. If it was any deeper, I may have been disemboweled.

    Kara and her dad did say magic was one of the few things able to hurt us, so I have my first clue.​

    <Magic is responsible in some way.> I warn the girls. <Mine got me good, I’m bleeding.>​

    <Oh.> Artemis responds, realizing how few things could do that to me. <Do you need to pull out?>​

    <No, just keeping the boss lady informed.> I assure her, she has her own freak to deal with in the sky and I need to stop distracting her. <Besides, I always bring protection.>​

    I grin as I remember another reason we have these capes, near indestructible shields for civilians. Reaching behind my neck, I tear as hard as I can and rip my starry sky cape free from my back.​

    Holding it in front of me like a matador, I begin to spin like a top.​

    Faster and faster I go, drawing my enemy towards me in an inescapable undertow. Keeping my eyes closed as I create a whirlpool inside the narrow pipe, I manage to retain my orientation long enough.​

    The creature collides with my arms and the cape held between my hands. Quickly stopping my spiral, I wrap the creature in my cape.​

    Restrained as it is, I easily subdue the creature with a choke hold and continue deeper into the black tunnel.​


    Fear Facility
    Crystal Lake
    Jan 20/2010
    4:15 PM

    Feeling my system clear of the serum finally, I begin my self examination. Pain free and clear of head again, I gaze down at what parts of my body I can see.​

    Some kind of metallic rod is sticking out of both sides of my neck, my fingernails and really my whole finger to the first knuckle has been replace by a metal that looks like green oxidized copper.​

    More of the green metal protrudes along back of arm in the shape of inch long goth spikes. I can see some metal contraption sticking out of my chest. It looks like an electric bug zapper is in my chest.​

    The glowing blue light is in a green metal cage. Even as I watch my flesh regenerate and attempt to grow over the embedded device, I see most of my new skin crackle and burn away before it can.​

    Well that’s really not a welcome sight, I think I can see my lungs breathing behind the cage. How do I get out of here before the do anything else to me?​

    “We have a problem!” The hacking cough of the Scare declares as he drags Iris’ twitching body into the room. “Subject 10 is defeated and Project Phantom is inside the facility.” I knew Zach wouldn’t leave me down here.​

    “Release the rest of the subjects then.” Talia orders without turning from Jade’s body on the table.​

    “Yes, they should keep him contained.” Vlad agrees with the ninja woman.​

    <Zach, incoming!> I desperately warn my friend.​

    “It seems Project Lobotomy is awake.” Vlad notices my alertness but hopefully not the telepathy. Turning to stare down at me he smiles.​

    “It seems we wasted our time with the Starro’s and you.” His voice purrs in pride.​

    “Your new improvements will ensure you aren’t just muscle anymore.” He’s leaning over me now, whispering in my ear.​

    “Surely we can offer more then the heroes who shelter you.” Laughing softly he continues. “What is it you dream of, we can provide it.”​

    “Do you want money? Power? Or is it women that you desire?” The silky smooth Eastern European voice inquires. “Anything you desire can be yours, if you only join my service.”​

    “Your teammates don’t care about you, a relative stranger to them who only brings trouble to their plate.” His voice is hypnotic in it’s persuasiveness.​

    His words have me considering what would it take have me join them?​


    Crystal Lake
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    4:20 PM

    Step by methodical step, Jason walks across the dock towards me. I find no mental essence to try and reason with, despite my frantic efforts.​

    <I could use a hand. Jason doesn’t look friendly anymore.> My call for help, is answered shortly after.​

    A streak of red and yellow light races to my side, revealing Wally in a torn and bloody uniform. He gives the approaching threat a frown and growls.​

    <We aren’t letting that happen to Iris.> He blinks in remembrance and adds in embarrassment. <Or Jade and Kyle.>​

    <Agreed.> My words are equally as determined. <Kyle stopped responding so we need to deal with this fast.>​

    <Try and restrain him if possible.> Artemis cuts in. <Dr. Fate may be able to figure out a way to at least bring his awareness back once we get the others free.> Oh, finally some good news.​

    <Got it Artie.> Wally’s words have regained his cocky charm <One gift wrapped hockey player coming up.>​

    <We can lead him towards the volleyball net down the beach.> My suggestion is met by a thumbs up from the Speedster.​

    <Nice catch.> His enthusiasm is contagious and I can feel my self grinning along with him behind my mask. <Since the Princess took my dance partner, it’s only fair if handle Jason.>​

    Vanishing in a cloud of sand and a swirl of fog, Wally races down the beach. With the volleyball net in hand, he casually ducks under an awkward slash from Jason’s machete and hooks the outstretched arm with it.​

    Before the zombified body of our friend can react, Wally darts around him a dozen times in quick succession. Before we can celebrate an easy win, Jason begins to strain.​

    Wrapped from head to toe, the sound of tearing let’s us know how much stronger he’s gotten.​


    Crystal Lake
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    4:22 PM

    Above the lake, the dome shape of the force field stand out both because of the cloud of thick fog contained behind a shimmering blue energy and the three figures engaged in aerial combat near the top.​

    “Go, left!” Robin calls out to Batgirl who’s engaged in deadly ballet with the gargoyle in a shredded purple dress. Hearing the yelled warning, the demonic looking woman darts to the left.​

    Rolling to her right in a graceful barrel roll, Batgirl avoids the volley of arrows launched at the creature. Shrieking in pain as her wings are pierced, the gargoyle begins to tumble from the sky finally defeated.

    <I did not think that was going to work.> Robin admits after a few moments of shock.​

    <Told you so.> Batgirl's smug response has him grumbling under his breath. <Now lets grab her before she drowns.> Robin frowns and begins to plead.​

    <Spoiler.> Batgirl gets the Martian’s attention. <If Roy gets his wings to wet he’s not going to be able to fly and I don’t have my aquatic suit. Were going to trade, I need you on lifeguard duty.>​

    <On it.> Spoiler confirms her orders.​

    <Hurry up you two!> Speedy’s urgent words have both flying heroes descending as fast as their able. <Jason’s been doing some serious Bane level steroids.>​


    Crystal Lake
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    4:22 PM

    Across the lake, Blackstar’s flaming green form trades powerful blows with the werewolf’s frantic slashes. The hulking form of the lupine man has begun to run out of steam.​

    “Don’t quit on us now!” Blackstar roars savagely as she delivers an uppercut to her foes face.​

    Rising several feet into the air from the force of the blow, the man wolf yelps in pain before slamming hard onto its back.​

    “We only just started warming up!” Ax kicking downwards, the werewolf is only barely able to roll away from the ground shattering blow.​

    A double kick from it’s back catches the orange alien in the gut. Being thrown into the air by the force of the blow, she smiles in delight.​

    “Excellent! I knew you had more in you.” With eyes glowing orange and her hair a matching flaming mane, Blackstar begins to throw orbs of condensed flaming gas.​

    Each attack, strikes the sand near the narrowly dodging monster. Blackstar is able to corral the lycanthrope towards the water’s edge and charge.​

    Colliding with the beast, she slams it back first into the water before she shoots a torrent of now green flame at surface of the lake.​

    Bubbles and steam rapidly rise from the surface, followed by the severely scalded body of the beast. Leaping from the churning waters, the werewolf collapses hard on the sand at the feet of the triumphant princess.​


    Fear Facility
    Crystal Lake
    Jan 20/2010
    4:22 PM

    Tossing the body of the merman onto the floor I drop into the room after him. It’s a ten by ten foot room with 6 clear glass walls and a white marble floor. I can see other inhabitants are in similar cells all around me.​

    The Cell across the hall from me, contains a unicorn. What the hell?​

    Beside the unicorn is a naked man as pale as Kyle’s new body. Except this guy has stringy green hair instead of the jet black Kyle does.​

    The naked albino is also as scrawny as Kyle was growing up. An anorexic twig has more meat then this dude does. He watches me with obvious interest, a sadistic grin spread from ear to ear.​

    Ignoring the freak, I unleash my ice vision on the glass in front of me. Watching it shatter is satisfying, like smashing frozen puddles while waiting for the school bus.​

    I step into the hallway and try decide which way to go first. Each side of the corridor has 5 doors leading who knows were, since my X-ray vision is blocked by lead lined everything.​

    “If you can make me laugh, ill tell you which way they took your friend.” The naked albino offers and his sick grin fills me with with unease. “If you can’t.” All of a sudden he’s not in the cell anymore.​

    Looking around frantically I hear tapping on the glass beside me. The naked anorexic is revealed to be in the cell with me instead, his sadistic smile somehow spreading even farther​

    “I kill you.”​
     
  18. Threadmarks: Chapter 17: Making the Hard Choice
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 17: Making the Hard Choice
    Crystal Lake
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    4:27 PM

    “Jason.” Batgirl pleads with the hulking dead man in a goalie mask. “It’s, me Artemis. Do you hear me?”​

    Jason chooses not to respond verbally but with a hammer fist descending towards Batgirl’s head.​

    <Spoiler.> The mental voice is lacking any of her vocal desperation as she rolls to the left. <Any reaction from him?>​

    A cloud of sand erupts where Batgirl had just been standing. The force of the dead man’s blow cratering the ground several feet deep. Searching for some thread of Jason’s mind, I manage to find a flicker of personality.​

    <I can barely feel him but he’s in there.> My words fill the others with renewed hope.​

    The few minutes it had taken me to fish the red headed gargoyle woman from the lake had pushed Robin, Speedy, and Batgirl to their limits. Time to work with an audience. Yay.​

    Descending from the fog above the towering figure, I harden my skin and crash into Jason. Considerably bulked up in death, he manages to resist my surprise attack by meeting both my fists with a single open palm.​

    Instead of being forced into the sand up to his chin, he manages to drive his other fist into my face before I have him buried waist deep with my momentum.​

    Pain explodes in my head as I am tossed through the air.​

    <Spoi-> I feel my mental link with everyone drop suddenly as I collide with the ground a few dozen feet away from the fight. Fighting off the second wave of pain coursing through my whole body, I struggle back to my feet.​

    Speedy’s clearly exhausted form is circling the silent form of Jason. A cyclone of sand kicks up and finishes my work.​

    With Jason now buried up to his neck, I can try to reach him now. Re-linking my mind with the other three, I take my eyes of the buried dead man for only a second.​

    But a second was all it took it seems. Panting on his hand and knee’s, Speedy is unaware of the danger. Without showing a single sign of struggle, Jason grey hand shoots forth from the sand tomb. Grasping the exhausted speedster by the throat, He begins to squeeze.

    Forming my arm to narrow and thin, I soar towards the struggle and swing. My now blade sharp arm slices through the zombie limb at the elbow, to no avail. Even dismembered, the grey hand has Speedy’s throat in a death grip.

    <Got him.> Robin informs me as he grab’s Speedy’s choking body from the sand and carries him away from the battle. <Be careful you two and don’t do anything Tommy would do.> His teasing does carry some truth, we won’t grow back from the damage Star-lad seems to relish soaking up.​

    <Worry about that arm.> Batgirl orders as she narrowly avoids the tackle from Jason who freed himself from his sand trap easily. <We got this.>​

    Do we? All our big hitters are elsewhere right now.​

    <Uh, Janet.> Batgirl addresses me as she screams at Jason's back. <You are our big gun right now.> Her sonic screech causes a wave of sand and visibly distorted air to slam into him, flinging him heels over head into the closest cabin.

    <When did I become the big gun?> My frantic demand has the Batgirl chuckle in my mind.​

    <When you got hit in the face by roided out Jason and didn’t get knocked out.> Her response makes sense I have to grudgingly admit. If I was still as delicate as I was in my fake human memories, I would have lost my head.​

    <Your not wrong.> I finally admit to the rich girl. I guess that means I need to take my dance partner back then.​

    “Girls like the strong silent type.” My taunt sounds way more confident then I feel. “But Jade’s going to be mad when she hears you’ve been hitting on us.” Oh theirs more activity in Jason when I said Jade’s name.​

    Landing between Jason and Batgirl as he emerges from the collapsing cabin, I jab into the dead mans gut. Surprisingly, he staggers back about half a foot from the force of my blow.​

    Giving neither myself or him the time to question it, I begin to unleash everything I have on his imposing frame. Each blow gaining strength as confidence fills my body.​

    <Ok maybe I am a big gun.> I admit to Batgirl. <Keep thinking memories of your sister while I keep him busy.>​

    My cockiness leads to a moments distraction that Jason seizes. Even though I had forced him back into the debris of the cabin, he wasn’t dazed at all.​

    His remaining hand encloses my face and before I can shift my density, I am lifted into the air and forcefully slammed into the wreckage.

    Once, twice, three times and soon I lose count of how many times I have been slammed into the ground. As my vision begins to blacken, I hear a very welcome war cry.​

    “By the three suns of Tamaran.” Blackstar announces her arrival by colliding like a comet with Jason’s now 8 foot form. “You shall release our friend you fiend.” Released from Jason’s bone breaking grip, I tumble to the ground.​

    Each punch is too fast for the admittedly slow zombie to do anything about. The roaring red flames mixed with indigo, creates gloves of searing intensity.

    Each impact sears the dead man’s skin and seems to drain the fight from him. After an intense struggle, Jason finally lands heavily on his back.​

    As Blackstar races towards his downed form for the finishing blow, Jason groans a single word.

    “Jaaade.”​


    Fear Facility
    Crystal Lake
    Jan 20/2010
    4:27 PM

    Fear seeps through my bones as the naked man intrudes on my personal space. Eyes up. Oh god that’s gross, all his hair is the sickly green color.​

    ALL of it, and he hasn’t seen a razor in a decade at least. Judging by the stench he hasn’t had a bath either. Super senses are not always a plus, I have now learned.​

    Well I remember Kyle said that Joker was locked up in a glass cell. Looking around, I can confirm I’m indeed in a glass cell. He also said a unicorn was in the picture.

    Considering a unicorn is in an identical cell in front of me, I think this is Kyle’s dad. Time to improvise.​

    “What’s black and white and red all over?” my quick reply at first pleases the Joker but my bad opener may have sealed my fate, judging by his devilish frown now growing across his pale face.

    “Your son after I kick his ass for making me go through this.” That seems to have stumped the clown, his blood red lips hang low as his mouth gapes in shock.​

    “Ha.” It’s not much but I’ll take what I can get right now. “Well you got a choice to make then.” The clown’s voice goes eerily quiet as he whispers to me.​

    “The plant girl got dragged through the far right door.” The whisper has become a disturbingly sensual purr. “Scaredy-Crane looks like he had some kind of plan for her.” Ok I know were to go at least, better hurry.​

    “Of course, the other two got brought through the one one the left.” The madman’s quiet purr suddenly becomes a clockwork orange inspired discordant melody.​

    “Tick tock, times on the clock.” He jumps in the air and his body twists and shifts, suddenly he’s upside down standing on the ceiling. His dangley bit’s are now dangling at eye height.​

    “This isn’t what me and Roy meant.” Desperately keeping my eyes averted, I try to ignore to musical number that is now describing the graphic procedures each creature here received.​

    How did a chihuahua get turn into a unicorn, that had to have been excruciating for it. The four unleashed on us were campers who went missing in the 70’s.​

    Thinking about the Half man, half bear, half pig I can only shudder in horror. That one is by far the most evil thing locked up in here.​

    I need to make a decision fast, who do I rescue first? Before I can decide, alarms and red lights begin going off. Soon each cell opens as the doors on each side of the Hallway open as the doors have multiple metal barriers rise before them and the prisoners.​

    Hissing draws my attention behind me. A massive snake easily 60 feet long lunges towards me snapping its jaws closed around me.​

    Inside the foul smelling beast’s mouth I exhale all the air from my lungs even as I feel myself being swallowed.​

    My torrent of flames sears a hole through the roof of the reptiles mouth, allowing me to emerge in a shower of blood and blackened flesh.​


    Fear Facility
    Crystal Lake
    Jan 20/2010
    4:29 PM

    Lack of responsibility for one thing, that is a reason to do what Vlad says. I may not agree with everything he’s whispering into my ear as he maintains eye contact but he’s offering me things I hadn’t realized I wanted.​

    A fake life of being responsible for children day after day while my pretend family worked, left me with a dread of being in charge but somehow always being forced into the role.

    “Is Dr. Crane done with the girl’s sedation” Talia impatiently huffs. “We need to leave before the other teens find a way down here. I would like to finish Jade’s ritual before we begin Operation Fireworks.”​

    “Yes, he released the rest of his projects to by us some more time.” Vlad’s response is charming and calm even as my team overcomes the monsters.​

    Scarecrow wheels Iris into the room in wheelchair. She’s sedated and unresponsive me calling her name.​

    Vlad shushes me before plunging his clawed hand into the chest of the surprised Scarecrow. Ripping the heart free, Vlad sinks his fangs into the still beating heart and drinking.​

    A few chants in some kind of Russian sounding language and soon a shimmering portal of blood forms before us. Talia pushes Iris’ wheelchair through the portal and follows with Jade immediately after.​

    “Have you made up your mind yet Tommy?” Ok I could probably survives him ripping my heart out and stop him from following Talia but why?​

    Vlad’s offer sounds so genuine. I can have my own island, with no one but some robot servants to bother me. No responsibilities except the jobs I want to accept.​

    Making a decision, I tense my finally regenerated body and snap free of my restraints.​

    <Janet.> I hesitantly reach out to the Martian. <Jade and Iris have been taken. And Vlad Masters offered me a deal, he’s one of the ones with real power. Like how Talia is the reason Jade was captured.>​

    <What?> Her worried voice fills my head and soon shes joined by everyone but Zach’s thoughts.​

    <I was given an offer and I’m going to have to accept it.> I offer my apologies to everyone. <I could never forgive myself if I don’t go with them now.> While the others begin cursing the situation and trying to convince me I am making the wrong choice, I say my goodbyes.​

    <Tell Zach to look after my van.> I hesitate and finally end the group chat with some final words. <And tell him I’m sorry I couldn’t wait for him to save me.>​

    <Can you look after Patrick for me.> I ask Janet privately.​

    “Yeah I’d like to be on the winning side.” I take Vlad, or I guess I should call him Mr Masters now since he’s my boss.​

    Shoving all my insecurities and fears into a ball of emotion, I shove the memories to Janet, someone needs to explain to Zach why I felt this was the best choice for me. I want someone to understand how powerless we are.​

    Crystal Lake
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    4:30 PM

    <Get out of there!> Memories from Kyle slam into me. <NOW!>

    Ultraboy thankfully responds in time, able to sense the desperation in my words. Rising from the lake in a shower of water, he had to have flown straight up when I called him.​

    The ground vibrating and rolling beneath us, has me fall to my backside with a hard thud. As a column of steam billows from he lake behind Ultraboy’s escape.​

    The fog begins blowing away almost instantly as the energy barrier vanishes. We can see the winter sunset reflecting off the snowy peaks in the distance under the clear starry sky.​

    Looking up in dread, a growing ball of blue light begins to spread in the night air. The star that was the Legion Watchtower, grows to dozens of times it’s size like a supernova star.​

    As fast as the horrifying sight is, it’s over in barely a second. With all of us horrified, everyone frantically tries and fails to reach their mentors via the now working radios.​
     
  19. Threadmarks: Arc 3, Chapter 18: Operation Fireworks
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 18: Operation Fireworks
    Crystal Lake
    Slaughter Swamp
    Jan 20/2010
    4:42 PM

    “So what we’re-” Wally tries to ask from in front of me, as he scarfs down some emergency power bars stowed away on the Batplane. “Just going to leave these three at the Sanctuary when Janet is done with her mental magic?”​

    Artemis silently lifts, refusing to respond while she flicks through the Com channels. Jason sits silently beside me, holding his severed arm to his stump as I sort through the mental domination on the three surviving victims of Cadmus.​

    “Mom what’s going on up their?” When only static answers, she tries Batman instead. “Dad, are you okay?” With the battle over for now, everyone had asked me to end the mental link, so I can only assume Artemis is handling this better than I am based on her unwavering and steady voice.​

    “Batgirl to Watchtower.” Since it’s clear she will not answer Wally who is being torn up over the worry for his sister, I’m going to have to.​

    “Viic-Tuumss.” Jason speaks up for only the second time since his awareness returned on the beach. “Suff-urred. Wuurrs. Thaan. Mee.” He slowly turns to gaze at me from behind his mask with glowing green eyes. “Thaa-nnk. Yoouu.”​

    “You never stopped fighting the mind control.” Giving him a warm smile I can remember how hard he was trying to save Jade. “It’s why I was able to bring you back so easy.”​

    “Demona, Shaggy, and Gill are strangers who have been locked up for nearly 40 years.”I guess Wally has decided to name the werewolf, lagoon creature, and gargoyle woman. “Who says you can find the person inside anymore, Or that they are even decent people?” Okay, that is a good point.​

    “Tommy went with Cadmus as soon as the going got tough.” His angry growl is not so understandable. “Who knows when these three will stick a claw in our back.”​

    “I get it.” Trying to defend our missing friend, I speak up. “I felt how hopeless everything was in his shoes, he did what he thought was best.” Ignoring the scowl on Wally’s face I continue. “We’re going to have to get him and your sisters back from Cadmus.”​

    “Yeah, I guess.” Looking out the window past our other friends flying alongside us at the now lightly snowing sky. “Once Artemis gets through the interference blocking the radio, we’ll know what that light show was.”​

    “Denial won’t help.” Artemis chooses now to join the conversation. “No one is responding and the Watchtower’s light is gone from the sky.” Coldly she finishes her explanation, the stress is finally seeping through her calm facade. “You know what the light show was.”​

    “But how?” The desperation in his voice is palpable.​

    “Once I know, you all will.” Artemis mutters in frustration. “Now quiet. I’m going to keep trying to reach someone and Janet has some minds to find.” Her order is followed as Wally moves onto another ration bar.​

    Reaching into the sandy blonde lycanthrope’s mind, I begin pulling memories up from the depths of his brain.​

    Vandal Keep
    Savage Islands
    Jan 20/2010
    10:52 AM (HST)

    Walking through the portal of shimmering crimson, is less messy then I assumed it would be. When I emerge on the other side in a windowless room of black polished stone, I am thankfully clean of blood.​

    Iris and Jade get wheeled from the room by two well groomed neanderthal looking men in simple white robes as soon as we arrive, Talia Al’Ghul promptly follows after them.​

    When I attempted to follow them also, Vlad’s well manicured hand on my shoulder, stops me in my tracks. The shockingly firm grip forcing my obedience is removed, once I comply with the unspoken demand.​

    “Good.” His calm voice approves, my lack of action. “You will be easier to train then Stockman described.”​

    My new master, walks from the room silently. I clomp after him in a hurry, my boots echoing off the masonry devoid of any decoration.​

    “We need to test your loyalty before you are reintroduced with the girls of course.” Vlad declares as we cross the hallway into torch lit stairwell. Makes sense, we have been messing with a few plans already.​

    “Of course.” Pondering how I will do so, I am lead from the stairwell into a room with two occupants. One is a black guy in a lab coat, while the other is the very recognizable Lex Luthor.​

    “It’s so good to see you came to your senses.” Luthor’s words are laced with threat even behind his charming smile. “Doctor Stockman believed you were a lost cause. A waste of resources is not something I enjoy.”​

    “Well sir, I heard enough of what you had planned and I knew where I belonged.” Seriously how did they sneak a mole onto the Legion and trick them into getting ninety percent of the on board the Watchtower?​

    “Yes, the winning side is appealing isn’t it.” His knowing smirk makes me feel dirty, evaluating me for what I can provide him.​

    “I believe I was also offered an island with servants?” That is something I have wanted for years. A nice beach to relax on and a jungle to explore when the world has responsibilities for me to shoulder.​

    “We do have one little problem however.” Lex interrupts my fantasy with a dose of reality.​

    “You lead to my son’s imprisonment.” When did I do that? I remember the few fights I have been involved in and I don’t remember fighting any Luthor?​

    “Toyman is his son.” Vlad answers as if having read my mind.​

    “Yes and Dexter was only acting out.” Lex’s eyes lock onto mine as he finishes his plea, the lack of emotion makes it hard to judge the sincerity. “I can discipline my boy much better at home.”​

    “So your test of loyalty will be undoing your earlier heroics.” Vlad informs me of my task with a cheerful smile. “Your team will be infiltrating HIVE and releasing the inmates willing to work for the Light.”​

    The Light? What kind of villains are they? I was expecting a name that actually sounded threatening.​

    “Yes and once Stockman awakens his latest successful Project, we can introduce you to the rest of the team.” I can hear the capital P in Lex’s voice. What kind of alien is in the pod now rising from the floor.​

    A tank nearly identical from the one I first woke up in contains a dark pink, nearly red skinned humanoid. Closely shaved blonde hair and a slender frame have me drawing a blank on where he could be from.​

    He has dark blue, skin tight pants and a metallic red undershirt. A closer look at his face shows a rather slender face with many sharp angles. The alien looks to be near my age, maybe a year or two younger if his species ages like a human.​

    “The alien adolescent we found four years ago, has been since identified as being from Korugar.” Stockman’s explanation is really not much of one for me. All I know is he looks kind of like the guy from Justice League with the yellow energy powers.​

    “The staff we found embedded in his ship still allows no living creature to touch it without lashing out.” The Starro on the Aliens head blinks curiously at me, as I continue to ponder Stockmans ongoing discussion.​

    “We have implanted a set of memories successfully, from the show Smart Guy.” How can Stockman sound so happy about rewriting our minds like this? Even if I’m working with these guys now, I will never like Stockman. “We selected the friend Mo as the personality, in hopes he will follow a chosen leader without dispute.”

    “Good, Tommy here can do so for this mission and hopefully many more once his loyalty is assured.” Vlad pats me on the back, nearly knocking me off my feet from the force. For a normal looking man he really does have some impressive vampiric strength.​

    “Enough delays Stockman.” Lex orders the doctor. Awaken him now.​

    Grayson Bird Sanctuary
    Star City
    Jan 20/2010
    5:02 PM

    “Supergirl, Steel, and Red Tornado was the only ones I could reach.” Artemis wearily declares over the ear piece radio, once she lands the Batplane at Roy’s place. Finally some good news. “She’s on her way to Arkham and Steel is going to the Belle Reve prison break.”​

    “Yeah and Red Tornado said he was dealing with some kind of flying nuclear train with a big payload in France.” This is way bigger then I thought, it really does sound worldwide.

    “Guys!” Roy shouts for our attention from one of the balconies. “Supergirl is going crazy and smashing Arkham to pieces.” His grim words have me go still.​

    When Kara trains me, she’s always on the top of her game. Living up to Superman has to be nearly impossible but somehow she deals with the pressure. I can’t let her do this, she told me how long it took the world to forgive her dad when Queen Bee got control of him for 6 hours.​

    “I’ll meet you their!” I bend my knees and leap skyward. Ignoring the shouts from below to wait, I rocket towards the bay and tap my radio. “Sorry but no one else I care about is going to change sides today if I have anything to do about it.”

    “How are you going to do that?” Artemis demands in my ear, the worry in her voice is only barely noticeable even with my amazing hearing. “You can barely even get her to break a sweat in training?”​

    “Good old fashioned stoner ingenuity will have to do I guess.” I respond grimly, knowing I’m only going to be able to buy time for the others to arrive.​

    Vandal Keep
    Savage Zone
    Jan 20/2010
    11:13 AM (HST)

    As sleep slides from my grasp, I awaken cold and shivering inside some kind of glass tank.​

    “Marcus! Get me out of here!” He has to be behind this oh so funny prank. “Teej?” I weakly ask. Maybe he got roped in on this?​

    “Kaldur’Ahm.” Memories I don’t actually recall having before now begin flooding into my head, a loving male voice saying goodbye. “Your mother and I will always love you. To keep you safe we have to send you away my little space explorer.”​

    I think someone was mad I was born. It’s hard to recall as the surge of memories conflict with my life on Earth. Dad and mom lived with me in shelter in the desert. We were hiding from my grandfather I think.​

    On my fifth birthday, we were found by a patrol. Mom tried to lead them away, while dad strapped me into the ship he had been constructing for our escape.​

    “Now don’t worry about us.” I can barely remember his voice as he assured me they would follow, once a new vessel was finished.​

    “What did you put in my drink Marcus?” I call out for him one more time. “I had the craziest dream.”

    “It’s alright Mo.”A charming man’s voice comes from behind me. “We can explain everything.”​

    Grayson Bird Sanctuary
    Star City
    Jan 20/2010
    5:42 PM

    As the Batplane and the Warwing rise into the sky and split up, three groaning monsters watch the news. The news on the TV show riots occuring all over the Tri city area.​

    “I know they said to stay here and rest but zoinks, this looks like more then they can handle alone.” Norville the werewolf whimpers at the devastation on screen. On either side of him his companions weakly agree.​

    “We could help.” Daphne the gargoyle suggests hesitantly.​

    “Yeah!” The lagoon creature, Fred enthusiastically responds. He rises to his feet and pumps a fist. “I saw a van I’m sure I can hot wire.”​

    “But like, won’t they be mad we left and stole from them.” Norville asks terrified of another beat down from Blackstar.​

    “Not if we’re helping people the whole time they’re at the prisons.” Daphne agrees, now on board with Fred’s plan.​

    “Nope. No way am I going to go fight an angry mob with torches.” Norville’s desperate denial is dismissed by the other two monsters.​

    “Would you do it for an all you can eat dinner at my dad’s restaurant?” Daphne bribes her frightened friend. And in a blur of fur, Norville is at the door.​

    “Okay, let’s go save some civilians!” Laughing for the first time in decades, Fred and Daphne hurry after Norville as he races to the van outside.​

    “Do you think he realizes your dad is definitely retired by now?” Fred’s whispered question is met by a snort from Daphne.​

    “Wait! What’s going on!” Norville yell’s frantically in terror. “The van’s haunted!”​

    “Norv, were monsters too.” Fred calls out to the werewolf being chased in circles by a driver-less green and blue van. “Have you tried asking it for help?”​

    “Like fine man, I’ll try.” Norville’s indignant tone becomes soothing like someone talking down an aggressive dog. “Nice van, we’re only trying to go save people from the rioting. We were going to bring you back, I promise.”​

    With those magic words, the van stops chasing the werewolf. ‘Hero’ by Enrique begins to play from the radio and both doors pop open with a happy honk.​

    “This is going to be so awesome you guys.” Fred joyfully cheers as he slides into the drives seat. “We’re going to be super heroes like Hawk and Green Lantern.”​
     
  20. Threadmarks: Chapter 19: Terror Titans
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 19: Terror Titans
    Ultraboy/Zach Zod
    Arkham Island
    Tri City Bay
    Jan 20/2010
    5:10 PM

    Forcing my body forward through the chilly winter air, I do my best to ignore everything besides my upcoming battle. For a day that began so great, it sure has gone to shit fast.​

    Iris and Jade have been taken by Cadmus, Jason is a zombie now, and Kyle chose to go with them. We’re alone in this screwed up world we woke up in and he decides to leave me to save the world?​

    I was content to get used everything and let Kyle take the lead, he knows way more about the heroes then I do. That’s not going to work anymore, I have to step up. Everyone just lost their parents, I guess we all do.​

    I really hope it’s easy to snap her out of this, Kara is really good at kicking my ass.​

    Arcing downwards when I catch sight of the asylum, I scan the area for hostiles with my thermal vision. It functions very close to the Kent’s X-Ray vision but it does have a few differences. I can tell a living body from a dead one without motion and that distinction is coming in handy right now.​

    I can see dozens of motionless bodies scattered all across the island. A few are growing cold and already dead but most seem to only be unconscious.​

    Clenching my hand tighter around the guitar given to me by Janet, I take some comfort from familiar feel of strings beneath my fingers. A deep breath to focus myself, before I continue my aerial scan.​

    No sign of Kara anywhere or any inmates for that matter. The only movement I can see is coming from the office at the top of one of the towers. I think that’s Warden Strange’s office, She’s supposed to be a pretty ruthless British woman.​

    Descending to her shattered window, I can feel an intense pressure bearing down on my mind all of a sudden.​

    <Halt.> Are the firm and demanding words forcing me to comply. It feels like when Question or Janet talk to us, only instead of politely asking it’s demanding hooks sinking into my brain.​

    They said single minded focus could overcome mind control, for a little while at least. Repetition of a mantra? I can do that.​

    Lifting the guitar before me, I focus on ‘The song the that never ends’ and begin to strum.​

    The simple and repetitive song is surprisingly effective. I don’t know if it’s the annoyance factor or if the guitars special powers but the music has stopped the voice from getting in.​

    Chancing a quick glance, I can see the still bodies scattered around have also begun to stir. Alright time to deal with the warden and find Kara.​

    Before I have a chance to do anything, I’m struck from above with all the force of a runaway freight train.​

    The impact knocks me straight down, crashing through the roof of one the cell blocks and several floors after. Laying on my back buried in rubble, I reach up to my ear and press.​

    “Ultraboy here.” I inform my friends with a groan. “I will keep her busy as long as I can.” Instead of going up to meet her waiting fists, I slam my skull and elbows downwards, shattering the floor.​

    As I tumble through the air, I right myself and blast through the window nearby, hoping to get at least one good hit in.​




    Kaldur’Ahm/Mo Tibbs
    Vandal Keep
    Savage Islands
    Jan 20/2010
    11:20 AM (HST)

    “I was found in this?” I ask, leaning against the spaceship. It’s small and looks kind of like a dragonfly with no wings. A blood stain on the front marks were I impacted someone on my journey to earth.​

    Embedded in the front of the craft lays a golden staff. It is slightly taller then I am, maybe six feet long. It has strange runes covering its entire shape and is topped by what looks like a shooting star.​

    “Yes.” Mr. Luthor explains cheerfully. “You were found by our host’s servants a few years ago.”​

    “Why do I remember living on Earth then?” Something isn’t adding up.​

    “Earth has been invaded more then a dozen times.” Luthor’s tone has gone chillingly cold. “The Light will not tolerate threats to Earth.” He gestures to the guy who looks like he’s in KISS. “Tommy here went through the same process.”​

    “Yeah, my dad was kind of a psycho, they had to make sure I followed in someone betters shoes.” Tommy admits with an awkward wince. “Here I can do some good.” Considering that, I take a moment to lean against the ship as it allows me through its force field.​

    I’m an Alien. Wow, T.J. would have loved that.​

    Except he’s not real is he? No one I remember is.

    “Alright, I’m in.” I finally accept the offer. Reaching for the staff, the energy shell around my ship once again allows me to bypass its protections.​

    I feel a slight tingle at first but once my hand is around the unbelievably warm metal, a surge of energy shoots into me.​

    “YEARRH!” I begin screaming like a little girl.​

    This really hurts, is my last thought as I lose consciousness.​



    Star-Lad/Kyle/Tommy Lobo
    Vandal Keep
    Savage Islands
    Jan 20/2010
    11:21 PM (HST)

    Watching Mo writhe in agony is uncomfortable. No one moves to help him. Stockman, Luthor, and Vlad dispassionately observe his pain and I won’t be the first one to react with this crowd.​

    “Excellent.” Stockman gleefully claps. “The field is finally gone. Now I can begin studying the vessel.”​

    “Sorry doctor, we’ve had a change in plans.” My Lex informs the celebrating scientist with a cruel smirk. “I shall be bringing this home with me, Dexter should enjoy the homecoming gift.” “While you are being transferred to Krang’s facility in Iceland.”​

    “But you promised me access!” The petulant whine coming from my original tormentor, brings a cruel grin to my lips.​

    “Talia should be done soon, lets get you ready for your mission.” Vlad, grabs my attention. We slip out unnoticed as Lex crushes Stockman’s plans.​

    “I have selected your equipment, it should accommodate your new ability.” He’s taking about whatever the green metallic implants I have embedded in my flesh I think.​

    “Your power core will allow you to conduct and store unfathomable levels of energy my little Frankenstein.” Vlad’s excited grin is contagious, I have to admit. “It should grant you greatly increased strength. Enough that the magical source should allow you to overpower your wayward friend.”​

    “All that just to make me stronger?” I’m unimpressed if that’s the case, I thought these guys were super villains.​

    “No.” My new boss rushes to assure me with smarmy charm filling the room faster then a fart in a job interview. “Your implants will also allow you to channel and unleash this energy. The discharge may hurt but that’s why we I tried this on you.”

    “Because I can take it.” I finish for him. Vlad gives me another one of those proud grins from earlier, weird. What do those looks mean?​

    “Exactly.” As our conversation comes to a pause, Vlad presses into an unmarked brick. The grinding of stones, soon reveals a hidden room filled with weapons and armor.​

    “Now let’s get you geared up my boy.” Considering I’m only wearing my jeans, I have to agree with him.​

    “Now the biker look has been out of style for years but everyone should be able to make their own fashion disasters.” He cheekily winks at me. “It makes the more fashionable, namely me, look even better.”​

    “Uh, thanks?” My words barely get a nod of acknowledgment, as I am lead to a table already loaded with my equipment.​

    A black muscle shirt made of some kind of high tech mesh alloy should keep my glowing heart concealed. On top of the shirt, is a pair of silver finger less gloves each with a forearm guard. I assume hey are to channel my electricity in the right direction.​

    “The right arm has an anti-matter blade, while the left has had one of our more advanced computers installed.” Vlad informs me as I slide the shirt and gloves on.​

    “Your new utility belt, also comes with a much more specialized load out.” He passes me the mentioned belt, a high tech silver one. “Sedatives, poisons, a thermite detonator, and a few more goodies for you to discover.”​

    “Sweet.” I mutter aloud, as I struggle to clip my belt on. A new pair of matching silver boots and a sash filled with gadgets straight out of the Predator movie, complete my new uniform.​

    “Since your working for me now, your going to need a proper code name.” Vlad assesses my new look with an approving smile. “lets go introduce you to your team of Teen Terrors, my little Monstar.”​

    He’s treating me like I’m his kid or something, was he getting jealous that it seems like everyone important has a child or two? I may be able to milk this for a while, if I can perform as expected that is.​

    Vlad leads me through the maze like castle, once again using the stairwell to go down a floor. After I know for sure I’m lost, we arrive at our destination. Inside a lounge like room, complete with black leather sofas and a mahogany table await the Terrors.​

    Three people all around my age, give or take a few years are inside. A pair of blonde twins both the male and female both rippling with muscle, bicker with a girl in red and grey Megaman armor.​

    I can’t tell if she is wearing a skintight grey body suit or if her skin is really artificial. Her left hand has been replaced by an arm cannon made from a shiny red metal. Her right arm has the same red metal covering her forearm with a heavy duty power glove.​

    She has boots as well as pelvic casing and a breastplate in matching crimson material. Her blond hair peaks out from under a helmet with a black visor.​

    “I know Miss Luthor can be rather excitable but you shouldn’t argue with your employers family.” Vlad shuts down the argument immediately as he strides into the room.​

    “Sorry sir.” The muscled twins mutter in stereo.​

    “Just don’t let her dad hear you speak to her like that or they wont recognize your bodies, even with a genetics test.” Vlad waves off the apology as none of his concern.​

    “Now let’s get you all up to speed on your mission.” Vlad’s words have the armored girl shriek excitedly as she hops into the air.​

    “Finally Mr. Masters.” Her childlike voice is unsettling, coming from a nearly adult woman. “We’ve been waiting for hours.”​

    “Yes Dee-Dee.” Vlad smiles indulgently at her. “I’m sure the wait was dreadfully boring. But now its time to go rescue your brother, so please be patient a little longer.” Turning to address me, he explains the mission.​

    “Once Lady Talia arrives with her daughter, she will bring you as far as HIVE juvenile detention center.” Vlad’s smile is hiding something. “Her mission will take her farther but she has volunteered to drop you off on the way. I hope None of you are scared of heights?”​



    Spoiler/Janet/M’gann J’onzz
    Belle Reve

    Tri City Bay
    Jan 20/2010
    5:51 PM

    Giving a final farewell to Artemis and Jason in the Batplane, I watch them veer off towards Gotham in the south.​

    “Sounds like Belle Reve is being hit by an army.” Wally growls out angrily from his seat, his hand pressed to his ear as he listens to a radio station.​

    “This is pleasing.” Blackstar does her best to console him. “We shall turn our grief into pain for our enemies.” Throwing an arm around his shoulder, she pulls him in for a hug.​

    Her new uniform lent to her from Roy’s mother’s things, doesn’t do a great job of concealing her figure. A green scale mail tank top, dark purple armored leggings, and green combat boots was all that fit her, not that Wally seems to mind. Leaning into her embrace, Wally agrees.​

    “Yeah, all I have to do is imagine everyone I hit today is Tommy.” He grins savagely as he loses himself in the daydream of revenge.​

    “Steel is holding off Dr. Robotnik and his gigantic robot animals.” Roy calls back to us from the pilot’s seat of the Warwing. “Reports say were going to be dropping in on a 30 foot bear, wolf, moose, beaver, and falcon.”​

    “The battle shall be glorious.” The orange princess cheers in excitement. “We each shall have an enemy to vanquish.”​



    Notes:
    Had a good comment that had me remember the Cosmic Staff/Star Rod. Kaldur was going to have crashed into a freshly inducted Indigo Lantern originally but Cosmic staff I agree is way better.​

    Artemis/Batgirl, Roy/Robin, Wally/Speedy, Iris/Flower Child are all going to become PoV’s when a “real” world/Sitcom character’s memories get implanted by end of season. Blackstar will become PoV when her sister’s personality is awakened.​

    Amalgamated Zatana/Sabrina, Billy/Donna, Kida/Tula, and Red Changeling are the only Team members left to recruit this season and will also have false memories. If anyone has a suggestion I wold love to here which characters should be used as memories for each Member.​

    Notice I only listed characters who are/have been/will be on good Team. Members of my new villain Team(I’m thinking Teen Terrors with an Evil looking T Tower), may or may not become PoV’s later depends on how hard balancing 14 PoV’s is. I may stick with Kaldur, Iris, SI, and the one secret one who will be added as bad PoV’s.​

    Should I add a label of who’s perspective it is when I change PoV’s? It would be easy enough to go back and add the labels as well. Realizing I will have 14 PoV’s, the labels might be helpful.​

    Hints for upcoming arcs in no special order. I figure if I give the hints I might get a few helpful comments or messages with suggestions I can pilfer. Expect about 40-50 chapters from this for most of season one.
    -Santa Prisca Takeover
    - Tower of Fate/Shadow Crest (Set in Machu Pichu since Tower moves) attacked by Jade/Aku.
    - Disney’s Atlantis besieged by Plankton/Ocean Master.
    - Circe’s army attacking Themyscira/Australia.
    - Krang, Stockman and the making of Mutagen.
    - Imhotep, Cleopatra, and the Mummies Alive.
    - Mt Justice and Red Tornado + Miss Twister.
    - Two Worlds split over something besides age.
    - Lex and Cadmus Head Office
    - Vlad, Ghost Zod, and Phantom Zone
    - Mom Robotnik and Amazo
    - Dr Strange’s long reaching Plan
    - Joker, Joker, Joker (you all think this is reference to 3 Jokers but its not. Its a reference to a different white skinned, green haired, funny guy.)
    - Harley and the Royal Flush
    - Waller and the Suicide Squad
    - Head to Head between the Teams.
    - Someone on the Team will die this season(A PoV character) and a PoV character will also be mutated by the mutagen.
    Feel free to guess which one will be final arc of season, Who will be mutated and into what animal character, who will die, Who the 14th PoV will be, or If I really am evil or not. Really haven’t decided, me going to work for Vlad was a surprise I have had to adapt the story around. I was supposed to be rescued with Iris and only Jade was to be kidnapped. Which is why updates are a day or two slower then before.​
     
  21. Threadmarks: Chapter 20: How Deep is too Deep?
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 20: How Deep is too Deep?
    Ultraboy/Zach Zod
    Arkham Island
    Tri-City Bay
    Jan 20/2010
    5:28 PM

    Blocking an overhead blow from Kara with my raised forearms, I’m sent crashing through what remains of Arkham’s north wall. Smashing through the dark stone, I roll and tumble along the brick and dirt.​

    Pushing myself into a crouch, I fling myself underneath her follow up kick. As she impacts the ground behind me with a mechanically perfect ax kick, a cloud of dust erupts around her.​

    Gaining some distance, I soar upwards a hundred feet or so. Once again above the remaining buildings, I roll in the sky until I’m facing the ground again. Just in time too it seems.​

    Kara Kent’s full body white uniform, is covered in the grime of our battle and a dingy grey. The crimson S on her chest and of her cape stand out, giving me my target.​

    When she reaches my height with an outstretched fist and a beastly snarl on her lips, I roll over her and grasp her flowing cape. Gripping tightly, I yank her backwards into my knee.​

    With her breath expelled in a pained wheeze, I fling her higher into the sky and rocket after her in pursuit. I slam an elbow into her jaw, before attempting a headlock on the blonde. This does not go well.​

    Aware of my plan, she delivers a back handed strike to my nose, rocking my vision with stars and sending a spray of blood across Supergirl. As I tumble through the air, I hear music to my ears.

    “Stay down Ultraboy!” Artemis warns me in her beautifully welcome voice.

    A pair of rockets emerge from the clouds and slam into Kara from the front and the back, covering her in a cloud of red dust that remains after the explosion. Screaming in pain for the first time since our fight begin.​

    I’m too slow to react to her shooting upwards, to the now visible Batplane descending from the clouds. Someone on board is ready however. Dropping from the aircraft, the dead man Jason falls towards Kara with his arms outstretched for a hug.​

    Covered in the dust, Supergirl struggles to gain altitude. I can see her visibly staining to rise any higher. This proves to be enough for the zombie enhanced strength of Jason to collide and pin her arms to her side.​

    A few quick headbutts to her face and both fall towards the waves below in a tight embrace. As I try to adjust my course and meet them, a lance of red shoots from Kara and strikes the wing of the plane.​

    The rocket underneath overheats, exploding in a shower of shrapnel. Artemis and whoever else is on board begin spiraling towards the island, forcing me to abandon Jason and Kara for now.​



    Kaldur’Ahm/Mo Tibbs
    Vandal Keep
    Savage Islands
    Jan 20/2010
    11:28 AM (HST)

    “Get up.” Are the words I hear when I wake, soon followed by a painful kick in the ribs. “I don’t have time to coddle you.” A man’s voice orders me. I think his name was Stockman. “Get on your feet, now!.”​

    “I’m awake!” My frantic shout has me spared from his follow up blow. Opening my eyes, I have the last half an hour flood back into my mind.​

    “Good.” Stockman sneers down at me. “Now get on your feet and follow me, Were going to Iceland.” I really hope whatever kind of alien I am is good with the cold. Cause Mo Tibbs or whatever my name really is, ain’t.​

    I grunt out an affirmative and pull myself to my feet with the frame of my ship. Holy crap. I have a spaceship. “I’m an alien”​

    “Yes.” I get an exasperated reply from the black doctor. “That is what I told you.” He expects me to follow and walks from the room. “The brain better not have been damaged.” I overhear him mutter to himself as I hurry to catch up.​

    “Where did everyone else go?” I ask once I do catch up to the power walking scientist, Still clenched in my left hand is the strange Star rod.​

    “Getting ready for their own operations.” He answers without even glancing back at me. “Now hurry up. Krang does not like to be kept waiting and we have a long flight.”​

    After a winding route through the black rock hallways, we arrive in what has to be the hangar. Eight jets along with a dozen high tech choppers and five one of a kind advanced aircraft fill the massive chamber.​

    “Hey. Mo!” I hear my name called from underneath on of the fancy planes. “Glad your back on your feet so soon dude.” The milk white guy with the black star on his face, cheerfully waves at me. The green claws and neck bolts, have me wondering what he can do.​

    “Me to.” I finally callback to Tommy who is waiting with a brother and sister pair of blonde lookalikes and a girl in red and grey armor. “It really hurt.” Once Stockman enters the jet we are going to be taking, Tommy calls out a warning.​

    “Be careful with Stockman.” His words are light but laced with seriousness. “He’s only in this for himself, so you need to be to.” He nods to the jet and waves me off. “Have fun and I hope to see you soon.”​



    Monstar/Kyle/Tommy Lobo
    Vandal Keep
    Savage Islands
    Jan 20/2010
    11:55 PM (HST)

    Now geared up and with my new squad, we wait for our ride in relative patience. It was good to see my fellow memory implanted alien back on his feet. It was not so good to see he was going with Stockman, it’s going to be harder to keep an eye on him now.​

    I remember the show he’s from, I loved it as a kid. Well I know the show as long as it’s not as altered as it turned out my memories of Janet’s show turned out to be.​

    Three’s Company, was a lighthearted sitcom about misunderstandings. Here it turns out the show and her memories, actually are about a three way relationship. Seems like she grew up in a show as hippie themed as I did.

    It is a relief to know I don’t really know everything about everyone’s lives or them my own history. The changes makes everything really feel real, well and the brief bouts of pain I keep going through.

    “Finally.” Dee Dee Luthor, interrupts my thoughts with an excited squeal. “You were taking forever. Let’s go save Dexie!.”

    “Patience my dear.” Lex chides his daughter as he strides into the hangar beside Talia and Jade. “You will soon be off.”​

    “What impertinence is this?” Jade steps in front of her mother and Lex, her frame now covered in flowing black robes with red dragon embroidery. “Who dare question me?” A cough from Talia has her hasten to correct herself. “I mean us.” ​

    “My daughter is simply eager to rescue her brother.” Lex for some reason, rushes to assuage Jade and her glowing green eyes.​

    “Well for your aid in my return, I shall forgive her this once.” Jade’s voice has an otherworldly echo that I can feel seek to impose its will on all of us. A tangible aura of fear, rage, and desire has coalesced around Jade in the form of black ethereal energy cloaking her body.​

    “Dee Dee.” Lex addresses her sternly. “Be good and try not to get to distracted.” His stern look slips and he pats her fondly on the head.​

    “Of course daddy.” The armored girl cheerfully chirps. “I know that my job is to grab Dexter and Mary.”​

    “And our job is to handle the guards.” The twins speak as one, Tuppence cracking her knuckles with a fierce smirk and her brother rolling his shoulders in excitement.

    “And this is my test, Keeping them on task.” I conclude, staring into Lex’s cold green eyes.​

    “Yes and it’s up to you, on who else you bring back with you.” His evaluating gaze is trying to force me to look away but If I do, I know he owns me forever. “Your going to need to expand your team of Terrors, if you hope to continue being of use that is.”​

    “Enough chatter!” Jade’s demanding tone, silences everyone. “Now how long will this trip take?” Her tone says it better be fast.​

    “Three hours.” Lex assures her swiftly. “Fastest plane on Earth.”​

    “Oh.” Jade’s displeased face has me on edge. “That won’t do.” She looks us over one by one before settling her gaze on her mother, who begins to shift uncomfortably.​

    “I was going to save you to breach the Rock of Eternity.” Talia’s eyes widen in shock and she takes a step back. “But you don’t have enough juice left in you. The Lazarus pit has stretched your soul far too thin to of use in anything besides a simple portal.”​

    Before anyone has time to comprehend her words, she raises a hand and Talia is consumed by black flames. Her terrified shriek morphs quickly to agonized wailing that ceases in seconds.​

    An ashy replica is all that remains of Talia Al’Ghul, who begins to crumble blowing away in the wind. The horrified expression of the squad has managed to remain free of my own face thankfully.​

    “Hurry up and go through the Ash Well.” Jade orders, pointing to the ash that was once her mother. It has begun swirling in a spiral on the floor, a vacuum of wind sucking anything loose inside.​

    “I have my own task to attend to.” She scolds us for continuing to stall. “Bah! I say bah!” Her expression has flipped back to flaming fury. “Get in you cowards. Now!” And with that demand, Dee Dee performs a perfect ballerina leap into the vortex.​

    “You first Tuppie.” Beebop begs his sister with panic filled eyes.​

    “Boss a little help with this chicken.” Rocksteady, the more level headed of the twins asks me for help. Aid I am all to ready to provide my squad.​

    “Cowabunga!” I call out in an attempt to ignore my own worry. I rush forward and with my best tackle force Thomas Terror or as he prefers, Beebop, into the swirling vortex on the floor.​

    As soon as we are through the portal, I realize the error of my plan. We are at least a few thousand feet up and rapidly approaching terminal velocity. As we drop through the sky above what looks like New York, I can only wonder which invasion tuned Manhattan this.​

    It’s a rubble field encircled by hundred foot walls with only a few dozen buildings still standing at all. Lady Liberty, has clearly been repaired after being severed nearly in half. The head and torch arm have been replaced by a helmeted head and a raised saber.​

    At the feet of Liberty, lays our target. HIVE Juvenile Detention center, sits protected by nearly 2 dozen patrol boats. Tuppence Terror’s scream from above, informs me she has joined our air drop.​

    Our descent lasts long enough that the sheer terror is able to abate long enough for me to really consider what I am doing. Infiltrating the Light to rescue the girls, doesn’t seem to be working out so well.​

    I’m enjoying the prospect of choosing my own team and the idea of ruling my own island a little too much. I know I joked about it in high school all the time but this is reality.​

    I’m breaking into a high security prison, to break out someone I helped put in there. Can I even comeback from this?​

    <Yes.> I finally hear the voice I have been screaming for since emerging in the sky. <Your the only chance we have right now of getting the girls back.> Janet’s warm and comforting mental voice sinks into my skull.​

    <I’m being tested already.> I rush to inform her of what I have learned and what my objectives are. <I had no idea your range was so far.> New York is pretty far from the alternate Florida the Tri-City area is in.​

    <We’re on our way to Belle Reve.> Janet responds with a laugh. <We just passed Manh---.> And like that her voice cuts out again. If i’m going to remain undercover, I will need a way to contact the Team.​

    Once we are only a few hundred feet up, I realize I have zero fear and in fact I am really enjoying the experience. I Have always wanted to skydive and this is close enough, I’ll survive. What is wrong with me?​




    Spoiler/Janet/M’gann J’onzz
    Belle Reve
    Labrador Canada
    Jan 20/2010
    5:58 PM

    “Tommy said Jade is possessed right now, he’s going to find out by what.” I hesitantly speak up, finally in contact with our informant. “Iris is awaiting memory insertion. He wants to know what her favorite show is and her favorite character.” Asking Wally is challenging, the new information is conflicting with his earlier rage. “If he does well he gets to pick.”​

    “Anya from Buffy.” The speedster finally mutters in frustration. “How come I’m only learning of this now?” Blackstar and Roy agree with his lack of knowledge in irritation.

    “We needed it need to know at the lake, we may have been watched.” I finally admit sheepishly. “Artemis said keep it quite till we where all safe.”​

    “Secrets should not be kept among friends.” Blackstar chides the decision.

    “He only got a hold of me because we flew by.” My words have everyone wondering why he was in New York. “He’s hitting HIVE while everyone is occupied.”​

    “Well as long as someone is keeping an eye on Iris.” Wally grudgingly concedes at last. “I may get some sleep tonight.”​
     
  22. Threadmarks: Chapter 21: Free Falling Frankenstein
    Flightless Man

    Flightless Man Versed in the lewd.

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    Chapter 21: Free Falling Frankenstein
    Ultraboy/Zach Zod
    Arkham Island
    Tri City Bay
    Jan 20/2010
    5:34 PM

    Accelerating quickly, I rush to catch the spiraling Batplane.​

    Not everyone can fly, I consider on my approach. How many are on board?​

    A scan with my thermal vision shows only a pilot is present. Has to be Artemis, since Roy will be flying his own vehicle.​

    She isn’t getting up from the cockpit and ejecting, I think she’s trying to get the plane to crash in the bay.​

    “Coming in from below.” I call out a warning with a tap at my ear. “Brace yourself!”​

    Metal crumples around each hand on impact with the aircraft, burying my arms up to the elbow.​

    My upward motion does stop the spiraling descent of Artemis, thankfully. I really haven’t found out how big something gets, before it breaks apart in an attempt to manhandle it.​

    “Thanks for the catch.” I hear the grateful words of Artemis in my ear. “We did not want to see what the other Anti-Kryptonian rockets would have done to Arkham.” I glance at the two remaining rockets, on the wing beside me and frown.​

    “How powerful are they?” I barely refrain from whimpering. She senses my discomfort and gives an honest laugh.​

    “It’s more that we don’t want to find out what red Kryptonite exposure will do to any remaining inmates.” I can hear the frown in her voice as she explains. “That’s how Shego got her powers, same with Radioactive Man.”​

    “Like from the Simpsons?” Snorting in disbelief is all I can really do when she says that.​

    “The what? No, never mind that now.” She ignores my comment. “Have you found out what’s controlling Supergirl?”​

    “Nothing concrete, but when I arrived all the guards were in a trance.” I consider my words carefully, not wanting to give any wrong details. “I saw someone in the warden’s office. And when I started playing the ghost girl’s guitar, the guards woke up.”​

    “And Kara attacked?”​

    “Yeah, almost instantly.” I grunt out my answer, as I finally place the plane in a relatively clear courtyard.​

    “Then we don’t have long.” She informs me, as she descends from the ramp. “Jason will only be able to hold her for so long.” She pauses for a second doing some calculations. “We have maybe eight minutes before the red Kryptonite wears off.”​

    “No time to take the long way then.” I agree with a smirk. Artemis pauses and nearly reacts fast enough to avoid my arms.

    Grasping her bridal style, I ignore her attempts to free herself. Once I shrug off her last ditch eye gouge, she ceases her struggling.​

    “Explain. Now.” She glares long swords at me and the placement of my hands.​

    “Your too slow, too noisy, and way too bright with your rocket boots.”

    “And the reason your grabbing my ass?” The challenging stare from her, only encourages me. She hasn’t said stop yet.​

    “It’s a nice one.” My smirking response has her at a loss for words at my brazenness. “Besides, I knew you were going to demand we keep me carrying you a secret from Wally and Roy. “We can keep this part a secret too if you want.”​

    She readjusts herself in my grip after a few seconds of intense eye contact and silence.​

    “Well if you keep impressing me with thinking like that, I’ll consider it.” I begin to give a cocky reply before she cuts me off with a stern glare.​

    “A lot of us lost family today and with all the chaos, a lot of civilians are going to die.” She is not wrong, I saw how many fires and riots were going on my way here. We all need to step into the big leagues today.” Her words go hard as I bring us closer to the warden’s office.​

    “I really don’t have time for something half-assed.” The tone is teasing again, leaving me unsure. “My mom always said, you better show you’re worthy if you want this goddess.”​

    “The entire office is hot, I can’t see the warden anymore.” I let myself get distracted, and now I can only see a box of orange obscuring anything within the room.​

    “Drop me and go in the window.” Batgirl orders, back in mission mode instantly. “I’ll glide in after.”​

    Doing as instructed, I release my grip on her and charge into the office in a spray of broken glass and iron bars. Only to find a room temperature office and nobody insight.​

    Artemis lands beside me a few seconds after I enter the tower. We don’t see the warden so something is definitely wrong. The Overbearing presence from before has returned in a flood.​

    The firm command to sleep begins to sink its claws in my skull. Artemis is already beginning to waver in place and I know I’m not far behind her.​

    I lift both hands above my head and bring them down to the floor in a mighty blow, that should have shattered the cement. Instead the ground warps and distorts before every surface in the room, takes on a vibrant green hue.​

    <YARRRGH!> A mental bellow of pain echos in my head and Artemis’ as well, based on her now alert expression. The green material rises into the air, swirling into a consistently tighter shape in the middle of the room.​

    The overbearing presence, increases the pressure being exerted on the room. As a vaguely humanoid form begins to reveal itself, I wrangle every ounce of my willpower.​

    Surging towards the figure, I crash into them and bring the two of us crashing through the wall and into the open sky. Rolling with the green man through the air, I realize this is a Martian. I thought they all died?​

    Refusing to let him send another mental assault my way, I open my mouth and exhale. A gout of flame scorches his face and has the Martian emit a terrified shriek before slumping in my arms, motionless.​

    “Good, you remembered the pyrophobia.” Artemis congratulates me with a warm smile as she lands from her own descent. “Let’s get him restrained and we ca-.” Cutting off whatever she was going to say, Artemis grabs my shoulder and flings us to the side.​

    I manage to right myself in the air, wondering how I was supposed to restrain a Martian. Spinning to face the threat, we are presented with a dripping wet Supergirl glaring down at us.


    Monstar/Kyle/Tommy Lobo
    HIVE
    Statue of Liberty
    Jan 20/2010
    5:38 PM (HST)

    Wind screams past my face as I plummet to the earth. Trying to aim for the ocean, I enter a divers pose and begin to gain on the twin I pushed through the portal before me. Beebop, right?​

    It’s not the wind screaming, I realize as I pass the flailing blonde. Beebop is wailing like a banshee and Dee Dee is cackling like a witch.​

    She almost dances in her descent. A thruster from her back armor plating, lets her control her fall. Her cannon arm has been pointed below her and she smiles maniacally at me as I catch up to her.​

    “Wanna see my new dance?” She calls out at me with another cackle. “I call it the Stomping Unicorn!”​

    Dee Dee twirls in a deadly pirouette, sending a barrage of green lasers pulsing down mercilessly upon the patrol boats below. Before we can impact the sea below, some force gabs onto us.​

    Our descent halts instantly. Claws of shadow grasp around our waists, leaving us suspended in the air. The twins have caught up to us, held aloft by a limb made of dark flame.​

    “Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!” Between us, floats Jade with an aura of the shadow fire. “That was a close one! Mother really didn’t have much juice in her, if the portal opened that low.” She shrugs with false apology. “Sorry.” Not a trace of truth in her echoing voice.​

    “This is sooo much fun.” The Luthor heir squeals. Her assault on the ships never stopped. Nearly half of the fleet is carrying smoking wounds and a few, even look to be sinking. ​

    “Save some for me!” This is supposed to be a test. If I want to get anymore information, I need to prove my worth. Vlad said focus my anger to charge my new electric core, so I do.​

    I think of what has been done to me and my friends. What I’m going to do to Stockman when I finally have him alone is what finally gets my finger tips to begin crackling.​

    Blue arcs of electricity dance along my fingers, as I point them towards the helicopters moving to engage us. When I release my rage with a roar, the lightning flies from my hands and crashes into the lead aircraft.​

    My chest constricts painfully, as I continue to channel the power contained inside me. the faint odor of burning flesh wafting into my nose, is of little concern in the moment. ​

    My lightning engulfs the helicopter in a cage of electricity. It shudders in the air, before shutting down the electronics on board. Moving my clawed hands separately now, I aim at two different vehicles this time.​

    Soon the entire squad of choppers, is falling from the sky with stalled engines. The chest constrictions have turned into unexpected heart pain, as I channel my new power. My rage is not at the men on board, which is definitely impacting how much power I have to use.​

    “Whoa, so angry.” Jade’s possessor, comments with a chuckle. “Be careful. Too much strain may give you a heart attack.” She pauses to cackle for several seconds before resuming a fairly calm demeanor. “Oh who am I kidding? I don’t care what happens to any of you.”

    My lightning cuts off suddenly as the shadow fire fully surrounds me. With a blur of motion, all five of us, are on the head of the Statue of Liberty.​

    “Find your own way home. I have my own tasks to attend to.” We are ordered by whatever being is inside Jade.​

    “Not a problem, Mary will get us home.” Dee Dee’s determined smile, is more reassuring then her earlier manic one. “Thanks for the ride.”​

    “Oh? Such manners.” Jade purrs. “I hope you survive” And with those parting words, she vanishes in a swirl of ash.​

    “You all, are supposed to break anyone you think will be useful out.” Dee Dee reaffirms our orders. “Once I have Mary and Dexter free, we will meet you in the cafeteria.”​

    “Oh yeah!” A now recovered Beebop cheers. “Let’s make some noise!” Dee Dee spins a dial on her arm and a red hot flame emerges from her cannon. She points it at the statues head and unleashes a tight red flame. She shears through the metal easily, with he makeshift blowtorch.​

    “Beebop and Rocksteady, were going straight for the armory.” I issue my first command as leader of my new squad. “Once we have it secure, we can begin arming the inmates.”​

    Rocksteady and her brother acknowledge my order and leap into the head.​



    Spoiler/Janet/M’gann J’onzz
    Belle Reve
    Labrador Canada
    Jan 20/2010
    6:11 PM

    “Hold on!” Roy warns everyone from the cockpit.

    We do a barrel roll, revealing a giant blue bird. Narrowly avoiding the robot eagle’s talon, Robin retaliates with a cloud of pink.​

    The cloud expands and solidifies rapidly on contact with the bird. Soon the wing joints have completely locked up, bringing the bird crashing into the beach below us.​

    “Robin?” A deep male voice comes in over the intercom. “Am I ever glad to see you. Robotnik has an entire menagerie of these Ani-bots.”​

    “Yeah, I’m deploying the Team now.” Robin turns back to us with a grin. “Be careful.”​

    “You too dude.” Wally claps Robin on the back. A nod to me and a cocky wave to Blackstar later, and Wally jumps from the open hatch. His chute opens perfectly and the Princess and I, follow him into the sky.​

    <Link open.> I inform the team, scanning the area for more enemies.

    <Blackstar, take out the four legged one with antlers.!> Roy identifies the robot moose, as her target.​

    <With much pleasure.> She confirms, blazing off with a trail of green flame behind her.​

    <Dibs on the wolf.> Wally unexpectedly offers. <Dad told me how to handle something like this.> That’s a relief.

    <Janet, Can you find Robotnik while I cover Steel?> Our half Thanagarian leader asks. <He’s dealing with the bear and beaver.>​

    <Yeah. I can do that.>​

    Now where is he? I don’t sense anyone inside any of the animals. No one alive, is still in the rubble of the prison.

    <Its either all being done remotely or Robotnik is shielded.> I finally have to admit my failure. No one but the five of us are still present.​

    <But he was seen here.> Robin gives a frustrated huff. <I don’t get were he went.>​

    Looking over the battlefield, I can see Wally did indeed have a plan. He’s racing along the wolf in a streak of yellow. As he finishes with his lap of the neck, the head falls loose and lands on the ground unmoving.​

    <Screwdriver and a wrench are some of a speedsters best friends.> He crows in success, as the rest of the wolf follows suit in its collapse.​

    <Something is coming out of the ocean. Something big.> The grim voice of Roy cuts the celebration short.​
     
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