Read through the storyline, spearheaded by published author Daniel Peyton. Players too can submit fan fiction that can become canonized, and the storyline of the game is often impacted by player interaction with major events that happen within the game!
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“This is INN, International News Network. I’m Howard Miller, and these are today’s headlines. Perth, Australia, is still cleaning up after the recent incident with a giant robot that terrorized the town and resulted in serious damage to the beloved landmark, Kings Park. Officials of Perth are praising a team from BADGE who put their lives on the line to save the citizens and put a stop to this threat. In other news, another earthquake has shaken western Chad, Africa, leaving seismologist baffled as the quakes have all happened outside of the East African Rift System, where most earthquakes in Africa occur. In technology news, Renaissance Cell Technologies has announced that the new Renn Eye will be available soon. According to early reports, the new Renn Eye from Renaissance Cell Technologies will have a considerably low price, although they have not yet announced a specific price. Turning to sports, The Hero Olympiad is over and experts weigh in on the outcome of each event, .... “
“EB! I told you to check in the new recruits!” Nova stepped into the theater.
Sitting in the front row of seats, EB pressed a button on the armrest and the screen shut off. “Just seeing if there was any news on the Renn Eye. I’m so Jonesing for updates! I want one of those soooo bad. I mean, imagine the stuff you can do with it. It’s supposed to have the best camera on the market, and it will have two terabytes of space for games alone. I plan on downloading all the games, I will kick newbs right in the...”
“RECRUITS!” Nova bellowed.
“Oh, right. My job. Yeah. Sorry. On it.” EB bolted away at top speed to the docking bay where people were likely waiting patiently for him to greet them.
Dr. Henderson walked in with a tablet in her hand. “I could take your pulse and blood pressure just by looking at you. Must have been yelling at EB again.”
“You guessed it.”
“You need to cool it around him. You’re going to have a stroke.”
Nova sat down in one of the theater seats, “I am under so much stress every day. Having to work with him is sometimes more than I can handle.”
She took a seat next to him and started writing on a slip of paper she pulled from her pocket. “EB is like a child sometimes...“
“All the time.”
“Okay, so he has a childish mentality. But, you have to admit that he rarely makes a genuine mistake. He always gets his work done... though not always on your schedule. And he has saved heroes, BADGE, and the world on more occasions that most leagues can claim.”
Nova sat back, “You have a point.”
“I’m saying you need to cool off a little around him. A real friend is something to treasure, not scream at.”
Nova gave a half smile, “But I kinda like yelling at him.”
“Try to soften a little. And...” She handed him the slip of paper, “Here is an order from your doctor to take some time off and relax. You may be some kind of immortal being that defies all science, but you also are a tight ball of stress.”
“I will take your suggestion into consideration. Right now, we have even more new recruits to assess.”
She held up her tablet. “I got a list of twelve more people coming in today. That makes forty-seven this month alone. At this rate, every human on Earth will exhibit a morphon signature.”
“We have a ways to go to reach 8 billion. But this is a little alarming.”
Dr. Henderson sat back and looked at the names on her list. “If we don’t find the reason for this increase, we might face some serious problems. I worry that someone will gain significant powers who don’t have any moral compass.”
“My concern as well. Now, let’s look at that list.”
They sat in the theater and read over the initial reports before the recruits arrived to demonstrate their powers and start the assessment process.
***
The docking bay hummed with the voices of dozens of new people as they disembarked the special shuttles for unregistered morphonic people. BADGE agents, robots, and a few civilian workers helped organize the chaos.
Arx guided the new morphon infused people into place so they could get registered and processed before heading into the station for their initial assessment. “Okay, people, I need everyone to get in an orderly line. This won’t take long. Yes, this way.... no, don’t... that is an airlock hatch. Yes, right there. Thank you.”
Krystal Fae joined him. “You sound like an elementary school teacher trying to get a class in line.”
Arx huffed and then laughed. “Yeah, it’s kinda like that. You wouldn’t believe most of these people are adults.”
“This is a stressful and wondrous situation. I doubt anyone coming up here for this has ever even been on a space station, or even a shuttle.”
“True.”
“Do you always wear that toga?..”
“It’s a chiton. These things are comfortable and match my name.”
Krystal gave him a smirk. “And it lets you show off your hunky chest.”
“There’s that.” He admitted, “now, where’s EB? He’s supposed to be helping me. Or did Nova send you in to help?”
Krystal held her hands up. “Not me. I’m here to meet someone, and not a recruit.”
“Well, EB has all the arm badges and...” A white blur blasted by with a faint voice on the wind.
“SorryImLate.”
“Here you go, and you, and you, and you, and you, oh you are a big’n, you get two, and one for you, and you, and you...” EB zipped by everyone and slapped the arm badge on them that would help the computer keep track of them for their own safety. Each person also found a special chocolate egg in their hand just after the badge appeared.
After what seemed like four and a half seconds of dashing, EB stopped right next to Arx and declared, “I’ve tagged everyone.”
“Great. You didn’t have to startle them like that.” Arx saw the frazzled look on the people’s faces as they examined the badges on their arms with a touch of confusion.
“Well, I got sidetracked watching the news. They had a special report about the new Renn Eye. I thought it would be a full report with all the details. But it was just another blurb. When will they give us more info? Hey, next time Nova sends someone down to investigate those sphere thingies, how about I go down and do some snooping myself? I could look over the Renn Tech HQ for info and maybe take a moment to sneak a peek at the new Renn Eye. That baby is gonna be soooo cool, I can’t...”
“EB!”
“Oh, good one. You almost sounded like Nova.” EB grinned at him. He then jumped up on a table where a robot would check each person in. Speaking between his paws, his voice boomed through his powers, “Okay, all people with energy powers, lane one. All people with physical powers, lane two. Let’s get this show on the road!”
A man asked, while holding up his tagged wrist, “Do we gotta wear these all the time? They are annoying.”
Arx answered, “No. Just until you choose your path. Once you are part of a trainee team, your instructor will watch over you and you don’t need to be tracked. But, for now, that will help us keep you from entering dangerous areas of the station. Now, please get in line.”
Another shuttle lowered into the shuttle bay.
“There aren’t more recruits?” Arx looked at his tablet.
“I think that’s who I’m here to meet,” Krystal answered.
“Who is it?”
“Don’t know. Nova just said I was to meet them and then join him in his office.”
The shuttle door opened and Krystal beamed with a bright smile. “ALEX!” She ran over to her husband and gave him a big hug. They walked back over to Arx before heading out.
“Arx, this is my husband.”
Alex put his hand out. “Alex Fae-Murphy, glad to meet you. You’ve been doing a great job with the ATLAS program.”
“Thanks. Heard a lot about you and Gem.”
“Yes, the little one keeps us up at night. But she’s a treasure.”
Krystal smacked him on the shoulder. “I told you, no dad jokes.” With that, she said to Arx, “We need to get going.”
“I have a room full of pre-heroes to babysit.”
All three said to the other, “Good luck.”
Arx watched them leave and then felt a tap on his bare shoulder. He turned to find a woman standing there with bright green eyes, sandy blonde hair, and a cute smile. “Can I help you?”
“I, uh, don’t know where to go. I don’t know which line my powers belong in.”
He happily guided her. “Tell me what you can do and I will show you.”
A group of African native warriors crept through the bush, brandishing weapons. They ducked out of sight as an ATV raced by with men wearing strange uniforms. Using only hand signals and facial expressions, they moved quickly, catching no one’s eye.
Soon, they approached a large gathering of women, children, and a few elderly who were sitting together in a large, open part of the grassland. They seemed to be in a trance, with a smile as they all looked toward an empty stone throne. Men in garb that seemed to be partially religious and partially military walked around them carrying weapons.
One man gave the others a signal, and they ducked down, hiding in the taller grasses. He slunk through, avoiding being seen by the guards. He raced toward a large opening in their defenses and tried to get to a woman on the outside. However, one guard saw him and shot his weapon at him. He was able to avoid being struck.
Those hiding in the bush opened fire as well. The large, gathered captives dove to the ground with screaming and yelling while the two forces exchanged fire. One guard went down, but they had far more numbers than the men coming in to attack.
“STOP!” the man who came in first yelled in Swahili and his eyes beamed a red color.
The guards trained their weapons on him. “What are you doing?”
“I’m here to take our people home. Your leader is no god and I’ll not let you kidnap our people into this cult. I’m just as powerful as him, and I’ll destroy you if I have to.”
“Don’t be foolish, kid. You are nothing like Lord Antaeus!” one guard yelled.
The boy took in a deep breath and just as he released his breath and the energy from his eyes, his body sunk halfway into the ground, causing his blast to be diverted upward. The earth also trapped his companions.
The ground rumbled, and the guards bowed low. The women and children began to praise and sing as they knew who was coming. A figure rose out of the ground and stood taller than any person here. He was a muscular person with a body that seemed to be made of stone. His features were not that of an African, but more European.
“Who dares to challenge my divinity?” He called out.
The lead guard bowed low. “This whelp did so, your lordship. He has powers and pretends to be a god, like you.”
The young man yelled, “I do not pretend to be a god! I am a super human. I am...”
“SILENCE! I am Antaeus, Son of the Earth, lord of stone. A mere mortal will not challenge me. Are you alone? Do these other warriors you brought also brandish these powers?”
The boy sneered at him. “I’m the only one with powers. And I will be glad to show you what I can do with them.”
“I will not play your game. To your companions, I make the offer, worship me or die. To you, I make no offer. Mark, do you duty.”
The leader of the guards said, “At once.” He pulled out an old Anti-Morphon gun and used it to vaporize this poor kid. The others trembled at the sight of his death and the power of this man before them.
Antaeus declared, “I will suffer no interlopers who pretend to be gods. Let that be known. Now, BOW!” He commanded and all the gathered captives bowed toward him.
***
Krystal Fae and her husband, Alex, sat in Nova’s office on the station. Nova had not arrived yet, and both were silently waiting.
“Kinda feels like I was called to the principal’s office.” Alex said.
“Not something I’ve experienced before, but I suppose you're right.”
Alex frowned. “You never got called to the principal’s office?”
“Where I come from, we don’t have the same school system as Earth. So, no.”
“Right.” Alex asked, “What do you think he wants with us?”
“No idea. He said it had to be kept secret. That’s all I got from him.”
The door opened, and Nova walked in while looking over a tablet. “Oh, good, you’re here.”
“Still busy with all the new recruits?” Krystal asked.
“Just finished with the initial assessments. So many fresh faces. I’m going to have to get more instructors to teach at the rate this is growing. Not since the first wave of morphons came to Earth have I see so many meta-humans at once.”
Alex asked, “Is this bad?”
“Not bad or good, just... odd. I suspect there is something behind it, but we can’t figure it out. It might be some effect from the magic cloud that Lady Echidna covered the Earth with just before she perished. It might have something to do with all the temporal anomalies from Drocha’s messing with time... I just don’t know. Our best minds can’t figure it out.”
Krystal said, “With all these new people with powers, I worry that someone will realize they have powers and want to use them for evil purposes.”
Nova said, “My concern exactly. I have all the leagues on alert to be even more mindful of unusual morphon activity. So far, it seems to be normal out there. But all it takes is one.”
Alex asked, “Is that why you asked us here? To help keep an eye out for potential super-villains?”
“No. Actually, I need your help to investigate those Renn Tech spheres.”
Krystal said, “But I thought we determined they were just some cell phone tech. They haven’t really done anything bad.”
“I know. And I want that to be all there is to it. But, there is a part of me that can’t let this go at that. Anyone willing to put the kind of technology into something that can hide from all our best sensors has to have a reason deeper than just keeping it out of competition’s hands.”
“That could still be true.” Alex said. “Tech companies, especially trendy ones, are always working to be ahead of their competitors.”
“I know. And, if that’s the case, then I wish them well in their friendly market war. But I have to be sure.”
“Where do we come in on this?” Krystal asked.
Nova shuffled through papers and tablets on his desk and pulled out a file. He held it out to them. “This is all we know about the Renn Tech spheres, Renn Tech itself, and about Dr. Chorad. I want you to use your investigative skills out there to sniff around, see what you can find. Look at a few more of those spheres and the area they are in. See if anything is out of place, or abnormal enough to be worthy of note. Good or bad.”
Krystal looked at the file with Alex. She asked, “Why us? You have dozens of agents at your disposal. Chase is a skilled investigator.”
“And too well known as a member of BADGE’s inner circle. You, Krystal, are a well-known journalist. Alex, you are not a well-know BADGE agent, so you are not on most people’s radar. Together, you can work as a team to look into this without it looking like BADGE is getting nosy.”
“I know Renn Tech made it clear they didn’t want us poking into their stuff, and we don’t have any legal reason to bypass their privacy, since they’ve done nothing wrong.”
Nova let out a long, annoyed sigh. “You see where I am at right now. I hate public relations. I would rather fight a leviathan with just my fists than have to tip-toe around PR nonsense. But, we need a good image with the public if we are to help protect that public. If we engage in unauthorized actions, it will once again damage our reputation. So, you two are going to quietly do this and if you are caught looking too close, …“
Krystal laughed. “I can blame the paper. Journalists are always sticking their noses where they don’t belong. The public expects that.”
“I’m glad we are on the same page.”
Alex asked, “Where do you want us to start?”
Nova held up his hands. “This is your investigation. You decide where the best place to start, where to go and what to look for. I want deniability on my part for your actions.”
“Understandable. We will let you know what you need to know. Otherwise, we will keep BADGE out of this.”
“Very good. Now, magic yourself down to the planet quietly and get to work.”
“On it.”
Arx struck a confident gait as he approached the new ATLAS sector of the BADGE space station. Originally, they had designated a refurbished meeting room and some extra storage space for ATLAS. Under Justin’s administration, the team completely rebuilt the section of the station for the purposes of ATLAS.
“Morning, Arx. Working with the new recruits today?” Marge, one of his team members, greeted him as she headed for the mess.
“Twelve new people, all ready to join our work.”
“Love it. Hope some choose to stay up here. We have plenty of extra room in the ATLAS quarters.”
“I’ll encourage them to think about it.”
“Nice to have company during down time.” Marge turned a different corner toward the mess hall, “Oh, they got some great roast beef at the Jacks Buffet and Grill, you should try it.”
“Will do.” He left her for the main meeting room.
He walked into a large room with screens all around it. Three robots with ‘ATLAS’ painted over their designation numbers worked at the computers. The large screens had maps of the Earth. Some were tracking weather, some were looking at ocean conditions. In the middle of the large, circular room was a set of computer stations that allowed communication access for ground teams. In the middle of that ring of computers were tables with holo projectors in the middle of them.
Seated at the tables were all the new recruits from the recent influx of morphon infused people. There were people of all ages and races. An elderly man using a cane smiled at him, seated next to an aboriginal woman who looked as nervous as a cat. It was not uncommon for these new people to be nervous. This was a strange place for most people to experience. There was the same girl he met in the shuttle bay here as well, and she was not nervous. She was smiling at him with a flirty glint in her eye.
“Welcome to ATLAS, I’m Arx. I lead these teams and will be your instructor and guide. Today, I’ll acquaint you with our operation and answer your initial questions. After that, we will give you a series of papers to read about our work so you can study and be ready for tomorrow’s first sessions with the trainers.
A young man stuck his hand up and spoke at the same time. “Sir, will you assign us quarters on this station, or will you move us back and forth each day?”
“You’ll have a room on the station. In fact, ATLAS has its own quarters for our heroes. If you choose to stay and make this a career, you will have the choice of joining one of the ground teams or the base team here. Both locations have designated space for ATLAS members to have a room.” He saw the nervous Australian girl slowly putting her hand up. “Yes?”
“Do we have to wear costumes of the heroes like you?”
Arx gestured to his loose chiton. “It is not a requirement of the ATLAS people to be suited like heroes. However, during your education, you will have the opportunity to try hero costumes. You might find that the costume is not just a fashion statement, it is designed for the strenuous work you will need to do. But, as ATLAS members, you have a choice. Now, let’s save any further questions for the end. I would like to introduce you to the primary operations center for Atlas.”
He went through his normal introduction session he has practiced and performed many times before. In explained the weather, seismic, and volcanic sensors on display. He showed them several videos of former ATLAS events in action. He finished by explaining the sort of training required to join and the training expected to maintain membership in ATLAS. With the last of the questions answered, he finished this seminar into ATLAS. Several of the permanent ATLAS residents of the station entered the room just then.
“Okay, on the table are computer tablets for you to use. We have assigned each person present an individual computer tablet. You’ll find your name on the screen and a waiting place for you to press your thumb into it. On that will be your room assignment, the reading required for tonight, and FAQs on ATLAS. The people in the back will help you find your rooms and show you around. Don’t be afraid to explore the station. There are restricted areas, but there are also many things to see and do. Enjoy. You’re dismissed.”
As the gathering retrieved their personalized tablet and met up with one guide, Arx went to check in with the robot, watching the main sensors. However, that same girl he had already met approached him.
“Mr. Arx, sir, can I ask you a question?”
He smiled. She was cute. “Um, sure. And, don’t call me mister. Arx is fine. We go by hero names first.”
“Oh, sorry. I was just wondering about the uniforms. I’d love to have a hero uniform. How do I get one?”
“That’s no problem. We have a special area where robots will fit you for a uniform. Lots of selection. You’re Adrianne, right?”
“Yes.”
“You were amazing in the assessment. The powers you have are better refined than most new people.”
She blushed, “Thanks. I only got them recently, but I had some time to practice. Someone I know already had powers and was teaching me before I got summoned by BADGE.”
“Oh, who? Another hero?”
“Just someone at the local Fight Club. You know, one of the trainers.”
Arx frowned, “That’s unusual. Fight Clubs aren’t supposed to train people before BADGE fully assesses them. But I guess no harm, no foul.”
“Well, I suppose I should... oh, the others are gone.” She looked back to find no other ATLAS members.
Arx said, “No problem. I can show you to your quarters.”
“What I’d really like is something to eat. I’m starving.”
“I haven’t had lunch either. Why don’t I show you to the mess first and then your quarters?”
“Sounds like a splendid plan.”
The robot near them announced, “Seismic activity registered: 15.4542° North and 18.7322° East.”
Arx looked up at the map. “What level?”
“4.1 magnitude.”
Adrianne asked, “Is that bad?”
“No. That might shake up a few people, but it seems to be centered where the potential danger is minimal at best.”
“So, there’s nothing to worry ATLAS about?” she said, keeping her eyes fixed on the dot indicating the earthquake. A hint of fear in her eyes.
Arx shook his head. “Not now. But, this is odd. This has happened on and off for several weeks now, in that area. Nothing bad, but enough to see it. I don’t know what to make of it. Robot, register a report for Nova to look over. I’d like his input.”
“Understood. Sending.”
“Now, I hear the buffet has... Adrianne?” She was still staring at that dot.
Shaking this off, she said, “Lunch sounds good.”
“Something wrong?”
“Oh, no. Just... tired, I guess.”
“ATLAS deals with natural disasters much worse than this. If you’re shaken up, it could be dangerous for you out there.”
She shook her head. “I’m not shaken. Don’t worry. Now, come on.”
He led her out of the room, dismissing the alert and her concern as he fought hard not to turn on all of his flirting.
Screaming children run around as they chase a ball through the street. Krystal dodged the kids several times as she and Alex make their way toward St. Patrick’s Park.
“I love Dublin, don’t you?” Krystal mused.
Alex, dressed in civilian clothing, checked a small BADGE sensor device. “Sure. It’s nice.”
“You aren’t looking. The city is around you, and all you do is stare at that sensor.”
Alex looked up. “We’re not here for the tour. We are here on a mission.”
“We can still enjoy ourselves. This place has a lot of ancient magic. Can’t you feel it?”
Alex took in a great breath and as he released it, his form relaxed. “Yes. It’s old, and very weak, but it’s still there.”
They stopped on a street corner that gave them a lovely view of St. Patrick’s Park and the surrounding ancient buildings. People milled about their daily activities, a small group played music on one sidewalk, and a Renn Tech sphere hovered above the ground near the center of the park.
“There it is, the sphere.” Alex pointed at it.
“Third one we’ve looked at since we started this investigation, and it’s always the same. Everyone around here seems to just be going about their lives and not even noticing it.”
“To them, it’s free wi-Fi and cell service. Why would it bother them?” Alex commented.
Krystal said, “I guess they don’t know how frustrating that tech really is. I agree with Nova. Anyone who puts that much into hiding something is hiding something dangerous.”
“And all we can do is look at them and wonder. What is Nova expecting us to find out?”
“Anything. And, this time, we might have some help. Come on.” She walked him across the street toward a strip of shops. In the middle was a storefront that had a familiar sign above the door.
“A Fight Club?” Alex frowned.
“Yes. Come on.” Krystal walked him inside.
Inside, this was just like all the Fight Clubs around the world. The front was work-out equipment where people could exercise for free. A ring sat off to the side where people could box or wrestle. Behind a locked door was another gym entirely.
Krystal walked through the sweaty crowd of gym rats and pressed her BADGE id into a reader. The door opened and let them through. Another gym was being used, but this one had uniquely designed equipment suited for super powered people. There was also a larger fighting area that had special surfaces that could take the impact of energy blasts or ten-ton punches. A few members of the local leagues were working on the equipment, while a couple were super-sparring.
“Get yer head in the game, potato brains! Come on! Don’t go whimpering like that. That punch is fair play!” a red headed older woman yelled from the side of the fight ring.
Krystal approached her. “Cara!”
The woman turned and beamed a big smile. “Krystal!” They shook hands. “Oh, and you brought your fella along.”
“Alex Fae-Murphy.” He shook her hand.
“Oi, I say. Krystal, you gotta fine husband. An a wee one back home.”
“Life’s good.”
Cara yelled at the heroes in the fighting ring, “Get to the showers! You both looked completely knackered! Get!” The two burly men hurried away is if their mother was calling them.
“You certainly know how to run this place.” Alex commented.
She laughed, “Aw, it’s craic every day. But these eejits need a firm voice or they’ll act like teenagers around here. Now, I’m up to 90 all day, what’cha need? Something fer BADGE?”
“Not officially.” Krystal said in a tone that explained everything. “I was just wondering, since that Sphere has been out there, have you noticed anything different around here?”
Cara nodded. “No sooner did that thing show up, but I saw this place fill up with prospects. Most were weaker than my da when he’s scuttered.”
Alex whispered, “What?”
Cara heard that, and she clearly said, “That means drunk. An, I mean it. The first group had only a few worth tell’n BADGE. Just gave them the power defuser pills and let them on their way. But, more an more, they were coming in stronger. Can’t say the sphere did anything, but it has to have done something.”
There was a great commotion outside in the regular gym. Then came loud, explosive sounds from outside. Cara was first to the door, with Krystal and Alex behind her. Several of the other heroes rushed after them as well.
Cara yelled at the normal weight lifters, “What’s going on?”
A woman said, “Someone is attacking outside, or something?”
Krystal rushed to the door and opened it. Screaming and screeching of tires met her as bright beams of light cut through the air.
“SHIELD!” Holding up her hand, a barrier formed in front of the Fight Club and a beam of energy met it and deflected upward into the sky.
Running into the street, Krystal, Alex, and five heroes ducked as another beam of energy swung over their heads. A woman crying and screaming came from the middle of the park. From her eyes, the beam blasted out, splicing trees in half and burning parts of buildings.
“Oh, my god! She isn’t attacking! She’s out of control!” Alex yelled.
Krystal swung her hands in the air and spoke a fae spell. A bubble of magic encapsulated the park and stopped the woman’s beams from destroying more of the town. “Get in there, help her. I have to keep this up or she’ll destroy half of Dublin.”
Heroes rushed through the permeable shield. They used their own powers to protect themselves from her energy beams. Several times, they got close, but then the strength of what she was doing threw them back. It was almost impossible to get to her.
Alex rushed in as well. He used his magic to stop the beams of light as he walked closer to her. “PLEASE STOP!” He yelled several times.
She cried out, “I can’t. It won’t stop. Please, help me. This hurts! I can’t stand the pain. Please help me!” Trying to cover her eyes with her hands, she burned her arms down to her elbows.
Alex pushed hard through her powers, but then it all stopped. He put his hands down and then closed his eyes. She was dead.
In moments, BADGE and local authorities contained the park and specialist were examining her remains.
Krystal stood with Cara and Alex half a block away from the activity.
“What happened?” Cara asked.
Alex spoke with a dryness in his throat, “She gained morphon powers, but couldn’t control them and they killed her.”
Krystal said, “This is what BADGE is worried about. Powers don’t always mean some amazing new hero is born. Sometimes, these powers are dangerous to the user.”
Alex said, “Normally, it takes practice and training to strengthen powers. This kind of instant strength is… troubling. I worry this will not be the first incident.”
“What actions can we take to prevent this?” Cara asked.
Krystal said, “We don’t know. But we will find out.”
***
“They are ready, my Lord Antaeus.” The zealous followers of this stone man pushed the group of warriors who had come to free the women and children.
Antaeus smiled, “How wonderful.”
The warriors, now dressed in colorful native clothing, sneered at him. One spit on the ground and declared he would never follow.
Antaeus laughed, “You will learn to obey. All will learn. I, your god, do not come to you alone. I have a prophet.”
A lithe, weak looking old woman approached, draped in layers of dark fabrics. Bones strung on strings wrapped around her neck, rattling as she moved. She had a dark complexion and stringy white hair.
“Mama Pepo! You deal with this witch!” The man yelled at Antaeus.
“You will respect my prophet,” Antaeus stomped and made the ground rumble hard under them.
“I will...I... I will not...” The militia leader rebuked the idea of obedience, but a strange green energy bathed him and his companions. It came from the mouth of Mama Pepo as she spoke in a foul language of a witch. In moments, all the men looked upon Antaeus and then bowed. “My Lord.”
“Yes. Bow low and grovel. Prove your obedience by eating the dirt. Then, perhaps I shall forgive you of your sins and set your with my others. My new nation. My chosen.” He bellowed a hideous laughter while the men started shoving handfuls of dirt into their mouths.
Arx ran along a cliff that looked down at the ocean. Great waves of water ripped across the surface and bashed into a town in the distance. An entire harbor was already in ruins, debris floating in the thrashing water.
“Watch it! I need you to protect that town!” Arx yelled at two of the trainees.
A young man ran and let out a powerful scream. The shockwaves of his voice cut the power of an incoming tidal wave until it only washed ashore. An older man ran beyond him and quickly lifted both hands into the air. An energy barrier raced out away from him and surrounded the town. Another wave came through and hit the barrier, splashing around the town, but not engulfing it.
Arx looked up. Three of the heroes flew people to safety. “Good! Remember, time is at a premium. MOVE!”
While his people rushed to defend the town and evacuate the citizens, Arx tapped a button on his wrist comm. The waves turned horribly violent and came in three and four at a time. The barrier around the town burst apart, and the young man couldn’t scream any longer. Then, the waves seemed to settle. However, they saw an immense wave rising and rushing toward them, covering the sun in the distance.
Adrianne ran out across the surface of the ocean. Where her foot met the water, a small patch of ice would form for her to bounce off of. She created a surfboard of water and sped along as a fog of blue came from her hands. The massive, catastrophic wall of water turned to ice as far as the eye could see. It slowed and then stopped, the new iceberg bobbing in the waters of the ocean. Behind it, more waves crashed into it, but the ice stopped them from reaching the sand.
“Enough!” Arx tapped his comm again, and the room faded into an empty space.
The trainee ATLAS members approached and stood in front of him.
“You all did very well. You and team B are neck and neck for points in the training simulators.”
The boy, who spoke with a hoarse voice, said, “We wouldn’t be doing so well without Adrianne. She’s good.”
While Adrianne blushed, Arx smiled and said, “Yes. But that isn’t cheating. I put a person on each team with top-class powers. They’ll do some of the heaviest work, but they would fail alone. Being a BADGE hero team or an ATLAS team doesn’t mean everyone is equal in power, but that everyone does what they need to do so that the world is still safe. Now, hit the showers and get some dinner. I hear EB has some big announcement he is just dying to tell you.”
The others left, but Arx stopped Adrianne. “That was amazing. Where did you learn to do that?”
She said, “I told you, I did some training before coming here. Plus, I have been working in the RAID simulators with a few of the teams. I want to be my best.”
“You’re better than your best. Most ATLAS members don’t train with the heroes. I like the initiative.” He cleared his throat and carefully pulled out a card from his pocket. “Here, this is my extra key card.”
She took it, which had his picture on it. There was a moment of surprise with some worry on her face. “What’s this?”
“That is a BADGE official key card. Only command level heroes and ATLAS members have one. This will let you use the simulator on your own. I thought do some extra training.”
“Oh, good.”
“You sound relieved?”
She laughed, “I thought you were being incredibly forward and giving me the key to your quarters or something like that.”
He launched into defense right away. “No, no, not at all. I mean, sure, that can unlock my quarters, but that is not the reason. I just think you would like extra training and I didn’t want you to get bored and there is a lot more down time for ATLAS trainees and I mean, you are nice to be around, but I am not that kind of guy, and....”
“Stop stumbling around. I get it. You were being nice. I jumped to the wrong conclusion. I’m sorry.”
“Good. Now, don’t tell anyone I let you borrow that. We get two and they are supposed to be for us alone. I trust you will be honorable with it and not get me in trouble.”
“Scout’s honor, I will behave.” Adrianne walked toward the exit with him. “So, when do we get to do fieldwork? How long are we going to be stuck in simulators? We’ve been here for two weeks.”
“Soon. The next ATLAS crisis that arises, I’ll bring all the trainees along to assist the regular teams. But we have no way of knowing exactly when that will be. Or, for that matter, what kind of crisis it will be.”
“What about Africa?”
Arx paused and gave her a funny look. “What about it?”
“I know there has been some strange earthquake stuff going on there. Shouldn’t we go take a look?”
Arx shook his head. “No. Nova agrees with me. The severity of the situation does not warrant our attention. Besides, the local authorities have said that it is nothing. The Global Geological Survey is monitoring things.”
“Oh. I still think we should look into it.”
“I will keep an eye on the situation.” Arx changed the subject. “So, how about we have dinner?”
“Sounds great. I’m starving.”
“I mean, not with the group. Just... you and me. In the mess hall, but not with the group.”
Adrianne smiled at him with a sweet look in her eyes. “You asking me out?”
“In a way.”
“Then, it’s a date. And, you know something... you’re cute when you are nervous.” She patted him on the side of the face and walked away.
Arx let out a tightly held sigh as he watched her leave.
***
Nova stood in front of the main monitor in the Operations Center. Behind Nova was Gar, looking over a computer tablet with Chase seated off to the side. On the screen was Agent Justin in a BADGE tent with doctors and scientists around him.
“How bad was it?” Nova asked.
Justin said, “Bad. But, fortunately, mostly property damage. No civilians were seriously harmed, only the poor girl.”
“Was there any sign that she had powers before this incident?”
Justin shook his head. “I have spoken with her friends and family. I also visited her workplace and her church. No one said she mentioned anything at all. Just before it started, her boyfriend said she was mentioning her head hurt and her eyes were burning hot. We will know more after the autopsy, but I believe this was sudden.”
“I don’t like this. Morphons are still on the rise and this means more people will gain powers. Some who can’t handle them.”
Justin said, “There was one thing we determined.”
“What?”
“She complained about her head hurting just after going extremely near the Renn Tech Sphere.”
Chase said, “Then we have a good reason to crack those damn things open and find out what’s inside.”
“No, we don’t.” Nova said.
“It caused a woman to explode. I think that’s good enough reason.” Chase replied.
Nova answered, “We are drawing conclusions without enough evidence. The moment we break one of those open, we open BADGE up to legal problems. If there isn’t anything dangerous inside, then we are in a public relations debacle and legal trouble.”
Justin said, “So, we don’t pursue the investigation into the possible link with the sphere?”
“Do what you can within our legal rights.”
“Which will provide no answers,” Chase said.
Nova replied, “Don’t worry. I’m not sitting on my hands about this. For now, do what you can and get the data back to us.”
“I will. Justin out.” The screen went back to the standard read outs.
Chase stood up and protested. “Sir, I know you don’t want PR nightmares again. But this is ridiculous. There has to be a connection to Renn Tech and this morphon spike. We just need to break one of those spheres open and find out what they are truly up to.”
Nova said, “And the moment we do, we prove to the world that BADGE will flaunt local laws, not to mention protected privacy, when it suits our purposes. If there is nothing inside the sphere that is bad enough to make it worth it, we lose the trust of every nation on this planet. We can’t operate like that.”
Chase said, “Seems like a perfect position for an enemy. Bind our hands with the risk of PR and legal troubles. It’s just too convenient.”
“I have had the same thought. But, if they are, they have played their cards well. Our options are limited. However, I’m not ignoring this problem. I just can’t tell you what I am doing about it.”
It finally seemed to sink in to Chase as her entire posture changed. “I see.”
“Good. Right now, our concern has doubled. I was worried that someone would gain high-level morphon powers and use them for evil. I had not expected the powers taking lives like this. Chase, you and Gar reach out to the Leagues and tell them to be on alert. Work with the Fight Clubs and send out all our BADGE radiation detectors. We have to be aware of people with powers before they are aware themselves.”
“Is that even possible?”
“I don’t know. But we need to make it possible. That girl didn’t deserve to die and I don’t want more bodies.”
“We’ll get on it.” Chase took Gar by the arm and walked him out of the room for the League Communication hub near the conference room.
The elevator opened and Arx came in. “Director, I have a report on the new ATLAS members.”
“Then report.”
“All are doing extremely well. They are about ready for a field test when one arises.”
Nova let out a little smile, “Good news, which is needed right now.”
“Oh? What’s happened?”
“A woman gained powers just long enough to kill herself with them, accidentally.”
“Good god... how?”
“I’d like to know that myself.”
Arx said, “Well, I will head back. I...” He stopped himself before leaving. “Uh, sir. I have a question.”
“What is it?”
Arx pondered his words for a second. “Um, well, I know the BADGE rules for heroes and agents forbid romantic fraternization. Do those rules apply to ATLAS?”
Nova turned and gave Arx a funny look. “Why?”
“Just curious.” That did not sound sincere.
Nova said, “ATLAS is technically a volunteer organization that is funded by the governments for natural disaster management. It is not actually part of BADGE direct. So, I suppose our rules don’t fully apply. You, as head of ATLAS, can determine the interpretation of the rules.”
“Oh....” Arx mulled that over, “So, you’re saying ATLAS members can date?”
“Yes.”
“Good, uh, thanks.” Arx left a little faster than was called for.
A hot wind cut through the busy streets while cars rushed around in the heavy noon traffic. Alex and Krystal walked close together, so the thickly populated sidewalk didn’t separate them.
“I wish we had more time to just look around. I love the ancient ruins here in Tripoli,” Alex said.
Krystal patted him on the side of the face. “Honey, after we get done with this mission for Nova. Let’s take a long overdue vacation from BADGE and just enjoy a world tour. Magic travel is cheap and there is a lot to see.”
“And we’ll get to spend time with Gem.” Alex smiled.
“Yes. For now, though, let’s focus. The Fight Club is over there, down that alley.”
They turned down an alley that wasn’t nearly as packed as the street and followed it to a large Fight Club. Inside was the biggest club they had seen so far. It had dozens of machines, private trainers, a protein shake bar, and aerobics class in the back corner.
“Are you sure this is a Fight Club?” Krystal asked.
Alex nodded, “Yup. It’s one of the biggest in the world. Look back there, near the men’s locker room. There is the door to the superhuman part of the club.”
Krystal stopped a young man with an official Fight Club shirt on. “Where is the head of the gym?”
The boy pointed toward the shake bar. “Geoff’s back there.”
They saw a short, stocky, overly muscular bald man mixing shakes for customers.
“Wait, is that Rocket Fists?” Krystal asked.
“I think it is. Looks like he’s not playing hero any more. Come on.”
They walked back and met the bald, excitable man. He greeted them with his signature deep voice. “Krystal, Alex! Good to see you guys. What brings you to the finest Fight Club in the world?”
Krystal took a seat on the stool at the bar. “Doing some research for an article. What are you doing here? Last I heard, you were in the Bears league in Michigan.”
“I’m taking a break from being a full-time hero. They needed someone to run this place and I love gyms. Besides, who better to deal with untrained superheroes than someone who can take a hit? Would you like a shake?”
“No, thanks.”
Alex sat down as well. “We’ve been following clues and information across the world about the current spike in Morphon people. This Fight Club has sent more new members to BADGE than just about any other. Do you have any idea why?”
Geoff wiped down the bar, “We have ten times the number of people coming through here than any other Fight Club. Makes sense to have more than most.”
“True.”
Krystal asked, “Have you seen any that are abnormally powerful? Have any rejected the offer for BADGE and been resistant to the suppression requirements?”
“I had one couple here who were both extremely powerful. This guy and a girl with him. Both had new powers, but were already skilled with them. He was amazing. His body was slowly turning to stone, but it didn’t seem to hurt him. In fact, the more rocky he got, the more powerful he became. I told he me had to go to BADGE for assessment, but he hated the idea. I gave him the info, but they were just passing through. Another Fight Club nearer to him will be of better help.”
“Passing through? What were they doing here?”
“They worked with an anthropological team. It was a comprehensive study of local tribal customs and superstitions. He talked my ear off about it. Someone here pointed them to a place down toward Central Africa where there were practicing witches. I told him to be careful. There are a few of those witches who are dangerous.”
Krystal let out a huff. “Don’t worry. Most human superstitious magic is just smoke and mirrors.”
Alex asked, “Do you know if this couple is still out investigating?”
“Probably. They were excited to get deep into this study.”
Krystal typed into her phone. “We could make a quick swing through the Central African area and just see if they’re still there.”
“What kind of article is this?” Geoff frowned at them.
She answered, “How the spheres are affecting people.”
“Oh.”
Alex asked, “Where is the Renn Tech Sphere here in Tripoli?”
“Beach Park has one.” Geoff pointed in the general direction.
“Thanks. We’ll go take a look.” Alex got up to leave.
Krystal asked, “what about the woman? Was she as powerful is him?”
“Close. She had some skills. Her powers weren’t as strong as his, but she they were impressive.”
“What were they?”
“She could manipulate frozen water and freeze things. Kept this place cool for a while.”
“Do you have their names?”
Geoff shook his head, “Since I didn’t think I would be turning them over to BADGE from this club, I didn’t get the file work prepared.”
“Don’t worry, we’ll find them. Thanks.”
***
Arx sat down across from Adrianne at a table in the Mess Hall. She had a tray of Chinese food while he had a pile of pulled pork and potatoes.
“It’s always a little cooler near you. I like it.” He commented.
She laughed, “Everyone says that.”
“So, tell me more about yourself.” He dug a fork into the barbecue.
With a smirk she said, “Is this another interview, or a date?”
“Just getting to know each other.” He said.
“Well, I grew up in Oklahoma, went to OSU to get a degree in cultural anthropology. I was working on my doctoral thesis while on the field when I realized my powers. I tried hard to balance training and learning while finishing my school work. But I couldn’t keep up with both.”
“Why did you choose BADGE over the suppressors? You could have had your powers suppressed while you finished your doctorate?”
She said, “I enjoyed having powers. I didn’t want to suppress them. I was afraid that if I did, then I would never get to use them again.”
“That’s now how the suppressors work...“
“I know that, now. Besides, where I was doing my work was excessively hot, and my powers kept my team cool.”
“So, why stop working on your education like that?”
Adrianne gave that some thought before her answer. “Being in college is one thing. You learn about cultures and peoples from books and lectures. But, being out on the field, you see the world firsthand. Yes, I still want to finish my doctorate. But, I also want to help the world. Protect it. I don’t want to be a superhero. That’s just not me. But, I loved seeing ATLAS in action on the news. I made the choice to come here and join.”
“You were pretty insistent about joining ATLAS. Most people take time to consider their options. You were ready day one.” He laughed and added, “Don’t get me wrong. I loved the enthusiasm. And I really wanted you to be on my team.”
“Really?” She gave off a flirty smile.
“Yes. You have the perfect powers for several of our situations we normally encounter. Also... well... I admit, I found you... interesting.” He was searching for the right words.
She reached over and put a hand on his. “I find you interesting as well. You don’t need to fumble around with your words. You’ve sat exclusively with me for lunch every day for a week. I think I am getting the obvious message.”
Arx put his fork down and let out a heavy laugh. “You know, once I was a preening, flirty boy who had no trouble asking every girl out. I rarely faced rejection. Look at this body, these pecs, this smile! I mean, who could resist?” His tone was comical enough to get the point across he wasn’t being arrogant. “But, since I’ve been up here, working in ATLAS. I’ve been a different person. I haven’t asked a girl out and now I find myself nervous to say it.”
“Don’t worry, ask away. I promise I’ll say yes.”
He gulped and then said, “Would you be my date to the dance?”
“Dance?”
“Oh, right, EB hasn’t made the announcement yet.”
Just then, a white blur zipped up to the table. “Are my ears burning or is someone talking about me... oh, wow, she’s hot!”
While Adrianne giggled at that, Arx looked positively embarrassed. “EB, have you announced the party yet?”
“Oh, I was just about to. The Hero class is coming in. Here, take this. You can tell her. If she’s your date, congrats. You got a babe. If she’s not.... my room number is...” EB was firmly kicked away from the table by Arx.
Arx showed her the paper. “EB is organizing a dance event for all the new heroes and ATLAS members. A mix and mingle time for everyone to get better acquainted. I was going to ask you to be my date.”
She said, “I would be honored.”
A brown Jeep rumbled through the dried grasslands in the middle of Africa. Alex drove while Krystal looked over some information on a tablet.
“Remind me again why we aren’t flying, or using portal magic?” Alex asked.
Krystal set the tablet down and relaxed. “Because this is the first real time together, away from BADGE, the newspaper, or anything like that. I want to enjoy the view and spend some time with my husband.”
“We are still on the clock.”
“I know, the mission. But, we can still enjoy ourselves. This is the vast open lands of Africa spread out before us. Enjoy the view.”
“It is nice, if you like dried grass and barren land.”
“It’s hardly barren. Just different. Now, back to the mission. If all my information is correct, there was some kind of settlement near here. Five reports of morphonic human activity have come from the vicinity, which is unusual considering the sparse population.”
“That is odd. I wonder where the nearest Ren Sphere is. Look at the map, the nearest large city is... “ The earth moved, and the Jeep went up on two wheels on the right side, almost crashing. With a quick spell, Krystal pushed it back on all four wheels. There was a moment longer of shaking before everything settled down.
Alex slammed on the brakes, and they sat there for a moment, dazed. “Was that an earthquake?”
Krystal nodded. “Yes. That was no ordinary earthquake. Some kind of morphon power created that. Extremely strong morphon power.”
“Can you sense a direction?”
Krystal closed her eyes and held up a hand flat to her chin. She blew across her palm and a purplish blue cloud spread out for a moment. “Yes. Not exact, but a general direction. Head south east.”
***
Arx carefully fixed his tie as he looked at himself in the full-length mirror. He turned to the side, then the other side. With a quick little swipe of a polishing cloth, he shined his shoes one more time. Despite being satisfied with the arrangement of his outfit, he wore a worried expression on his face.
The door of his quarters buzzed.
“Come in.”
Chase walked in, dressed in a beautiful black sequined dress. “Arx, your people are... wow. You look amazing.”
He turned, revealing a sharp tuxedo with a red carnation. His hair was carefully done and his shoes glistened in the soft light of the room. “Somehow, it felt familiar getting into this.”
She laughed at him. “You spent a lot of time at balls, banquets, and award ceremonies... at least in your former life.”
“Too bad I remember little about them.” His tone wasn’t humorous or even remotely happy.
Chase approached him. “Arx, you look depressed. Is something wrong?”
“No.” Seeing that look in her eyes, he said, “That wasn’t convincing, was it?”
“Not in the least. What’s up?”
“I have something important I want to do tonight. But, I’m scared about it.”
“What?”
He looked back into the mirror again. “There’s someone I think I’m falling for.”
“Don’t tell me the glorious Arx, who shows his body off to everyone around, is nervous about asking a girl out.”
“That’s not the issue.”
“What is it then?”
Arx turned back around to say something, but the sound of music flooded around the station from the Mess Hall. A grand waltz played, voices outside the room followed the footsteps of the people heading for the festivities.
“It is nothing. I don’t want to be late.” Arx walked out of his own quarters, leaving Chase behind.
“Wait, you can’t leave me hanging like that.” She ran after him.
Following a crowd of new and old BADGE heroes and ATLAS operatives, Arx and Chase stood at the door to the Mess hall. The staff cleared the center floor of tables to make way for dancing. A crowd of people lined the edge of the floor. A full orchestra played a lively waltz while the guests all waited.
“At least tell me who it is?” Chase asked.
Before he could say anything, if he was willing to, Nova stepped in front of the orchestra with a mic in his hand. He also wore a fine tuxedo, his usual attire for official functions.
“Welcome all, those who have been with us for years and those who have recently joined. Tonight, we would like to have a welcome party for everyone. As leader of BADGE, I welcome all the new heroes who are joining the training program. Tonight isn’t simply about making connections, but friendships. I turn the floor over to Arx, leader of the ATLAS program.”
Arx walked through the applauding crowd and took the mic. “Yes, welcome to everyone. All the new members of ATLAS, thank you for joining the program and choosing to use your skills and talents to protect the world. You will work with heroes often, so tonight is a great opportunity to get to know them. Enjoy.”
EB jumped up and down, yelling, “LETS ALL HAVE A GREAT TIME! THERE’S LOADS OF GREAT FOOD AND GREAT MUSIC! SO GET ON THAT DANCE FLOOR AND DANCE. WE WILL BEGIN AT THE REQUEST OF NOVA WITH A TRADITIONAL WALTZ. DON’T WORRY, THERE WILL BE SWING MUSIC LATER!!”
The conductor tapped the podium, and the symphony struck the first chords of a grand waltz. Most of the people looked as nervous as mice at the idea of dancing in front of others.
Just then, across the room, stepped out Adrianne in an amazing red dress with roses embroidered over the surface. Her hair was up, her lips glistened a rose red, and her eyes smoked. She looked at Arx, and the room fell away. All he saw was her standing there, glowing.
Walking across the way, he held out his hand and said, “May I have this dance?”
“Of course.” With a white gloved hand, she accepted.
All eyes were on them and the music played alone. With skills he didn’t know he had, Arx led her around an empty dance floor in an amazing waltz. She followed with equal skill. As if all had become Cinderella’s stepmother, staring in utter amazement, there was no one else who joined them.
When the music finished, Arx found her face near his. He said nothing. There was so much he wanted to say, to erupt with joy at simply holding her in his arms. Yet, all he could do was stand there.
“I can feel your heart racing,” she whispered.
“I know. I haven’t felt like this in a long time.”
“Me neither.”
Finally, they heard the applause from the room as they had become quite the spectacle. With grace, Adrianne and Arx turned, holding hands, and bowed to the people and then the conductor.
“Come on, I’d like some punch.” She said.
“Yeah, and I’d like to not be in the center of attention right now.” He led her off the floor.
The next waltz began and this time Nova escorted Chase onto the floor. Justin danced with Dr. Henderson, and more of the other heroes and ATLAS members finally found the courage to join.
“Wait, I hear someone coming.” Krystal led Alex along, slinking through the tall grasses. She prepared a spell in her hand in case this was bad news.
Alex checked his mp meter. “I’m not detecting any spikes nearby. Just an enormous one in the distance.”
They had ditched the jeep to scout the area on foot. There had been several more tremors, and that was making it hard to drive. The further they scouted, the more the mp meter was pinging something big ahead of them.
She let the spell dissolve as she whispered, “Probably just travelers or herders. Come on, lets...”
Someone shoved a gun in her face and five more aimed at her. She vanished and reappeared to the side of the group of fighters. She swiftly swiped her hand, throwing their guns to the ground. Alex popped up out of the grasses and spoke a word of magic that sent the front man slamming backward through the others.
A young man grabbed up his rifle and pointed it at Krystal. “Where is my sister?” He yelled in Swahili.
Krystal twisted her hand in the air and the top half of his rifle tied itself in a knot. “Don’t be an idiot. This is a fight you can’t win.”
By now, the other men had retrieved their weapons as well, but were too afraid of trying to use them. An older man with white hair spoke with a softer, more pleading voice. “Please, our children, our families. Where are they?”
Alex walked over to Krystal and said to the man, “We don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“You have powers. You must be with the tyrant. Tell us, please.”
Krystal pulled out her BADGE insignia as did Alex. “We are not with anyone here. Our superiors sent us to this area for another investigation. We’re not your enemy. If someone has kidnapped your people, it is not us. And, BADGE will send help.”
“BADGE does not know.” The young man with the twisted rifle spit these words out.
Alex asked, “What do you mean?”
The elder answered, “The tyrant, a man calling himself Antaeus, has a horrible witch working with him. She controls minds with unnatural powers, like yours. The witch uses her unnatural powers to brainwash any authorities who try to get close. We would not come near here if they did not have our families trapped in her spell.”
A woman said, “They make them worship Antaeus as some kind of stone god.”
Alex said, “Looks like Nova was right to be worried about potential problems. A morphon infused person is setting himself as a god.”
Krystal said, “Not on my watch. A witch, you say. Well, I think I can handle that.”
Alex put a hand on her arm. “You aren’t going to go into this alone and fight this battle?”
“No, I have you.” The look on his face was enough protest for her to say, “Look. It’s two morphon people who probably hardly know how to use their powers. I’ve been dealing with false magic for centuries. I can handle some local morphon infused witch.”
Alex said, “Fine. First, we scout and get info. If it doesn’t look that simple, we won’t intervene yet. We will contact BADGE and let them send in a league.”
“Agreed.”
The old man had a smile as he said, “You mean to aid us?”
“Yes. Show us where this witch and god are.”
***
Arx escorted Adrianne through the Arboretum, which was set to night mode. This allowed the fullness of the stars and moonlight to bathe the trees and grasses of this pristine, artificial garden. A few other heroes and students were enjoying the quiet of the park instead of the boisterous swing music rattling the walls of the mess hall.
“Where did you learn to dance like that?” Adrianne asked.
Arx said, “It’s a long story.”
“I’d love to hear it.”
He reached down and took her hand. “It is a story I don’t know if I’m ready to tell you.”
“Oh? Whatever the story, you are an excellent dancer.”
“So are you.”
Adrianne held his hand as they walked. “I wanted to be a beauty queen when I was younger. Started on the path to Ms. America once. My talent was going to be dancing. I trained and worked for months. But, at my first show, I lost. I promised my dad if I lost, I would reconsider college. So, now I’m near the end of a doctorate. But I still remember a few things.”
“I’m surprised you lost.” He casually said.
She laughed, “That was corny. But... I like it.”
Arx started to speak, but then refrained and simply walked with her.
“Are you worried about something?” She asked.
“Why would you say that?”
She said, “You have almost said something five times now. There’s something you’re struggling with, and I think it has to do with me.”
Arx didn’t answer right away. He walked with her over to a bench on the edge of the central open area. He sat down with her and collected his thoughts. “You have brought something out in me I thought I lost.”
“What is that?”
“The desire to be with someone. To know them, care about them, want to be around them all the time.”
She said, “I wasn’t sure either. I liked you from the moment I met you. You’re nice to look at and I thought maybe I was just enjoying the view. Yet, there was something more.”
“We might just be both feeling a spring flirtation.”
Now she looked worried. “Maybe there is something deeper. But I don’t know if I’m ready.”
Arx said, “I want to at least try. But I can’t even hope you will want to be with me if I am not open and honest about myself.”
“What?”
“I’m Arx.” He said this as if that was profound.
“I know.”
“No, not just the leader of ATLAS. I’m the former celebrity, Arx. The one who went crazy with power and ultimately caused a lot of death and destruction.”
“You can’t be him. He died.”
Arx’s head hung lower. “That’s what the world believes. And I should have died. My own morphonic powers give me a strong invulnerability and mildly heightened strength. I added artificial powers to that through some illegal procedures. Combined, I was strong enough to survive what should have killed me.”
“I thought Arx was silver. Or, am I mistaken?”
“I was. Part of the artificial enhancements to make me look better. I was an idiot. To defeat the people who used me as a puppet in their evil plans, I let BADGE do a procedure on me that tore out my memories and the artificial powers. My actual powers saved me from death during that procedure. I woke not remembering much of my life for the past ten years. No memories about being a celebrity or a villain. Now, I only have flashes of my life during that time. The ability to dance, that was buried in the former Arx and I somehow recalled it.”
“Oh, I... I didn’t know.” She grew more depressed as he spoke.
Arx said, “I’m not that man. I’m no murderer. My life is now devoted to protecting people. Even if the world thinks Arx is dead, I’ll make amends for my atrocities. I promise.”
She stood up. “I don’t know what to say. You trust me enough to admit this. I... I can’t... “ She left, but he took her hand.
“Please, don’t run away from me. Don’t be afraid of me. I live in fear that the world will find out, that people will hate me. Not since I woke from the procedure have I allowed myself the luxury of romance. Until I met you, I didn’t think I was worth it anymore. Now, I want to try. I want to believe there could be something there.” He stood and held her gently by the shoulders. “Give me a chance, please.”
Adrianne wept. “I... “ She ran away from him, tears flying from her eyes as she left the arboretum.
Arx was broken inside. His fear had come real. He reached out with his heart and told the truth, but his past was a poison that would forever taint his present. He sunk back down onto the bench and put his face into his hands and felt tears falling through his fingers.
Arx couldn’t bring himself to look up. His whole body felt as if lead had poured through his veins.
“Arx?” The gentle, deep voice of Nova approached.
He didn’t want to see or talk to anyone right now, and Nova was at the top of that list.
“Sorry, sir. I need to go.” He stood to leave, but Nova stopped him with a hand on his shoulder.
“Son, sit down.”
“I really don’t want to talk right now.”
Nova said nothing. His commanding presence was enough for Arx to sit back on the bench. There was a moment of silence between them as Nova slowly walked around and sat on the other side where Adrianne had been.
“There is a wisdom to some rules we apply to the heroes. This wisdom, I’m afraid, probably needs to be shared with the ATLAS teams.”
“This isn’t the time to discuss rules and procedures.”
Nova continued, “The reason most organizations find it logical to deny romantic fraternization is that it creates unnecessary divides that prove problematic to the operation of the job you intend to do.”
Arx asked, “How did you know?”
“Logical deduction of why you asked me about the rules before. Also, EB followed you guys out here. He is a nosy little imp, but he also is a concerned friend. He came to me a few moments ago and told me what happened.”
“Great. I’m broken and now everyone will be...”
“I told EB to not spread it around and he knows when to listen to me.”
“Thanks.” Arx let out a heavy sigh. “I should’ve listened to the wisdom of the BADGE rules and applied them to myself. I made a damn fool of myself and might have pushed away one of the most promising members of ATLAS I’ve ever met.”
“This isn’t about losing a good team member.”
Arx nodded, “No.” He leaned back and looked up at the dark, starry heavens. “You know, I hold a deep pain in me all the time. It started the moment I first saw those news broadcasts of who I was before. Watching myself murder innocent people because of my inflated ego hurt me in ways I can’t explain. And don’t tell me I’m not that man. He is responsible. I am not. That’s not fair. Justice is not that blind. That pain haunts me like a walking nightmare. I speak with the BADGE therapist every week, trying to come to grips with this.”
Nova nodded. “I can’t say that your past will ever go away. But you’ll find peace in time.”
“I found that peace,” Arx quietly said. “For a few fleeting moments, when I was with Adrianne in the training room, or having lunch with her, or just talking after lecture sessions, I found joy, peace, happiness in her eyes. I fell in love with her. But when I sobered up from the euphoria of love, I knew I had to tell her the truth. If she found out the truth any other way, it would seem that I was hiding my dark past. Maybe it was too soon. Maybe I should have let you or Chase tell her.”
“You had to be the one to tell her.”
Arx nodded, “Yeah, you’re right. But I should have never fallen for her in the first place. The pain of her rejection is almost as bad as the pain of realizing my past. Now I know I will never have love in my life.”
Nova said, “Son, I don’t know everything. I may be ancient and have lived many lifetimes. But, in reality, love remains a deep mystery to me. Don’t give up. Focus on who you are now and what you do best. That is all I can say.”
Arx stood up and looked back at the ongoing party. “I suppose we should get back in there. I’m the leader of half of the attendees.”
“You don’t have to go back. I can make the apologies for you and let you go back to your quarters.”
“I won’t hide. I am the leader of ATLAS. But I will take a few more quiet moments to myself and then get back in there. Besides, I enjoy a party far more than you.”
“True...” Nova stood and was about to say something when his comm activated. “This is Nova.”
Gar spoke, “Sir, we have a strange message coming in from Krystal Fae. You should come up to Operations and hear it.”
***
Two hours before the party:
Alex and Krystal worked with the small militia as they slunk through the underbrush near Antaeus’s encampment. They used the cover of night skies to make their approach.
In a low whisper, Krystal asked, “How far?”
The elder answered, “Just beyond that thicket of trees.”
Alex quickly held up his scanner. “I’m picking up a morphon signature. It’s weak, but moving. Someone is approaching.”
“It’s Antaeus!” A young woman cried out in fear.
Before Alex could shush her, the leader of Antaeus’s security pushed aside the grasses and held a gun in his face. “More intruders. Good, my lord wishes more worshipers. You’re coming with me.”
Krystal stood up, magic filling her hand. “Threaten my husband one more time and you will spend the next five hundred years in an inter-dimensional rift.”
“Another false god!” He turned his gun on her just as she blasted him with a bolt of magic. His body flew backward and tumbled across the ground, the gun flew free.
The militia rushed over and retrieved his gun and held theirs on him.
“Careful, he’s got powers.” Alex said, showing them the sensor readings.
“No. Only Antaeus and his witch have powers. They execute all others who have abilities.” The elders aid.
Alex held up the sensor again, scanning the man more directly. “No, this is clearly showing that he has active morphons in him. He has powers.”
“Do not touch me! Antaeus will destroy you!” The man yelled at them.
“Lets kill him. He helped raid our village.” A young man shoved his gun into the man’s chest.
Krystal held out her hand. “No. We need answers. Besides, killing him won’t help rescue your families. Revenge is a poison, not a solution.” Her words cooled the boy down a little, but the rage was still boiling in his eyes.
She knelt down and cast a spell over him.
“What are you doing to me? Antaeus!”
“Stop his yelling. He will wake every follower in five kilometers.” The elder said.
Two of his men rushed over and held the man by the head, shoving their arms over his mouth so he could speak and holding him down.
“Do you see something?” Alex asked
Krystal nodded. “He has powers, but he also has one of the most sophisticated brainwashing spells or powers I have ever seen. He is not in his own mind. It is like he’s a drone of someone far more powerful.”
“Could this Antaeus do this?” Alex asked the Elder.
“I honestly don’t know the extent of our enemy’s powers. He is terrible and strong.”
The ground under their feet shifted hard as the world shook. Alex caught Krystal before she fell over. Then both sunk into the ground as a hole opened up under them. Individual holes that partially swallowed each person to their chest, leaving their shoulders and head exposed.
A deep, confident voice spoke as a strong footstep approached. “I am indeed terrible and strong. I am a god, born of earth, master of all. You will worship me.” The stone figure of Antaeus stepped out of the darkness.
Krystal let out a short laugh. “Another impostor god. I’ve dealt with your kind before and I’ll be happy to do so again.” She blasted out of the hole and hit Antaeus with a powerful spell that sent the stone man stumbling back. Before he could regain any footing, she hit him again, this time with a far greater spell. He landed on his back.
With a strong slam of his fist against the ground, Alex and the others cried out in pain. “One more attack and they will all breathe their last.”
Krystal landed and said, “Fine, we negotiate. But, I won’t back down. This little divine kingdom you are setting up ends tonight.”
Antaeus slowly got to his feet and smiled. “I don’t negotiate with lesser beings.”
“Listen, rocky, you’re nothing compared to what I have destroyed in more universes than you can imagine. Don’t pretend to... to..“ She wavered and slowly fell to her knees.
Mama Pepo walked out of the brush, a wicked word on her lips and that greenish fog rolling around them.
“What... what is... this?” Krystal held up her hand to cast a way this strange spell, but she was too far gone. With a hard slam, she hit the ground face first.
The captain of his security hurried to his feet and then knelt down in a bow. “Should we execute these inferior gods and take the others to your congregation?”
“Yes.”
Mama Pepo approached, “No. These two are far more important than you know. I think we have an opportunity.”
“Report!” Nova called out the moment the lift doors opened.
Gar, in charge of Operations, answered. “Krystal Fae reported in. I didn’t know she was on a mission.”
“She isn’t, technically. That alone makes this odd. What else?”
“The message is weird. Something about it doesn’t seem right.”
“Play it.”
Gar pointed at a robot, and the viewscreen activated. Krystal stood in the middle of an empty field, smiling at a camera recording this. “Alex, are you ready? Good. This is Agent Krystal Fae reporting in. We have found nothing of note in the brush. I just wanted you to know that. I’ve sent you a series of coordinates which mark the area we have searched for days. There is absolutely nothing here. I will keep moving and looking. Tell EB that I’m fine and he doesn’t need to worry about me. Agent Krystal Fae out.” The video ended.
Gar said, “That was strange. Why contact us to just say nothing is wrong? And what was the part about EB?”
Nova’s expression had changed from confused to concerned. He pressed his comm. “EB, get to operations now. I need your...”
“At your service!” EB zipped up to him with a paw held up like a salute.
“...help.” Nova finished his sentence. “We have a situation, and I need you to watch a video.”
“You called me away from that cool party to just watch a video? Aw, you want to do a movie night? Hey, I can conjure up some chocolate-covered popcorn, and we can use the main theater...”
“Not that kind of video. Just watch.” Nova pointed at the robot.
Krystal Fae’s video started up. “Alex, are you ready? Good. This is Agent Krystal Fae reporting in. We have found nothing...”
“STOP!” EB yelled, and the image paused. He moved closer to the screen, gazing at it.
“What is it?” Nova asked.
“This is bad, really bad. Like, the baddest of bads.”
“WHAT?” Nova was growing impatient quicker than normal.
EB said, “Krystal told me she would have a special emergency spell ready in case something terrible happened to her. It would be imperceptible to most people, even other magic aligned people. But, since I’m so strong, I can sense it.”
“What is the spell?”
“It is in her eyes. It forces her to get my attention, even without her knowing she’s doing it. And, using a deciphering spell, I can draw the information out that she really wants me to see or hear.”
“Can you do it from this video?”
EB said, “I think so. Can you put it on one of the smaller screens? I need to get close and work on this. This is one tricky spell. Has to be. Otherwise, whoever has bewitched her could sense it.”
“Bewitched? Are you saying she is under some kind of spell?” Gar asked.
EB nodded, “Yes. I don’t know much about what’s going on with her now. But, what I can see... what you can’t see... is that it is morphon enhanced magic. Really freaking powerful, morphon magic. Wherever she is, she is in danger.”
Nova said, “Get to work on that deciphering spell. Robot 10915, get the nearest league to those coordinates that she sent us. I want that scouted yesterday. Tell all the Leagues within the area that they are on red alert status.”
“Understood.”
Gar asked, “Should we call the party off?”
Nova looked at the still image of Krystal. “No. Let them have their fun tonight. No reason to panic any of the new recruits over something that we aren’t even certain about the details. However, let Arx and Chase know what’s going on.”
“I’ll find them.” Gar left Operations.
***
Mama Pepo leaned in and put her hands on Alex’s closed eyes. She pushed them open and stared deeply into his face. He could see her, hear what was around him, but he couldn’t move.
She spoke to someone whose shadow loomed ominously over them. “This one has magic as well, but not as strong as the other. Both have morphon powers, but their true power source is not morphons.”
The deep voice of Antaeus asked, “Are you sure you can keep them under your control?”
“Yes. They were ill prepared for my attack. They cannot remove the power I have over them unless they have full control of their faculties. These two will prove useful in your new empire.”
“I don’t like that. I don’t want them to challenge me.”
“Don’t be paranoid. I will keep them obedient. Soon, they will forget they even have powers. Only when I control their bodies will their powers be of any use. Just like all the others in your army who we have taken away and brainwashed, these will think they are just humans serving a god.”
***
Adrianne sat behind the thick trunk of a tree in the arboretum. She never left, merely hid after she lost her nerve. She could clearly hear the conversation between Arx and Nova. Through a muffled crying, she forced herself to reconsider what she would do next.
“This was supposed to be so easy. Why did he have to be so cute and nice... damn it.”
Arx was still on the nearby bench, looking as glum as a lovesick puppy. If she stepped out of this shadow, he would see her. What had begun as a great evening had turned into a terrible mess.
“Maybe I should explain myself.” Her thoughts rolled around how she would try to mend this situation.
Before she could try, someone walked through. It was that strange statue hero that worked with Nova.
Gar approached Arx and said, “There’s a problem. Nova wanted you to know about it.”
“Something big?”
“Yes. But, don’t tell the others. He doesn’t want to scare the trainees right now.”
This caught her attention. She leaned in closer to the tree and focused on hearing their words.
Arx asked, “Is it something for ATLAS?”
“I don’t know. Krystal has sent a strange message that EB is magically reading. It has something to do with Africa.”
Arx said, “Africa? Wait, we’ve got a lot of random reports about something going on in Africa. Is it near Chad?”
Gar nodded. “Yeah, I think so. The place she said was around that, I think.”
“I showed Nova some early reports, but I haven’t brought up the rest. These small to medium earthquakes that ATLAS sensors keep picking up around there could be connected.”
“Come on, let’s go tell him.” Gar walked away with Arx behind him.
In order to avoid being noticed, Adrianne slid around the tree as they passed. There was a throbbing in her chest and a panic washing over her skin.
“I have to tell them.”
Adrianne waited in the operation room of ATLAS with a few of the other trainees. The others looked a little disheveled after last night’s party, but were in good spirits. Adrianne appeared as though she were going to be ill.
“Hey, didn’t see you much last night after that amazing dance,” A young man said.
Adrianne didn’t catch anyone was talking to her.
“Musta had one hell of a night.” He nudged her arm.
She jumped and then looked at him. “Sorry. Did you need something?”
“No. I was just wondering what happened to you last night. You danced with Mr. Arx and then disappeared.”
A woman across from them slyly said, “Arx vanished as well. I saw him leave and not come back.”
Adrianne said, “Look, don’t get any wild ideas. He and I... are working friends. That’s all. He was called away for some BADGE business and I didn’t feel much like doing more dancing.”
“Where is he, anyway?” The young man asked.
Adrianne said, “I was just wondering that myself. I really need to talk to him.”
“Sure you do.” The pestering tone of the woman across from her made Adrianne want to give her a real icy chill right about now.
The screen in the table came alive with Arx’s face. “Hey, everyone. I’m called away for some important business in the main Operations. So, for today, there’s a list of standard training programs. Each person will pick two from the list and run them in simulator seven. Work at your own pace for now. You’re all doing great. Arx out.”
“Damn.” Adrianne whispered under her breath.
The computer on the table displayed a long list of simulated disasters for ATLAS to cover. The others were selecting their two for the day, while Adrianne grew more nervous by the moment.
“Look, honey, he has a great chest and cute butt, but you have work to do. Stop fussing and pick your two.” The girl rudely stated.
The young man said, “Becky, you don’t have to be like that. This isn’t High School.”
“I know what it is. But even up here, drooling over the teacher is not cool.” She snickered.
Adrianne was about to tell her where she could stick her opinion when the seismic sensor went off again. The others didn’t notice it, but she recognized the sound from when she was in here before. On the smaller screen on the left wall, two distinct earthquake signatures were showing in Chad, Africa.
“I have to find him before it’s too late.” Adrianne rushed out of the room.
***
Nova left the Operations center for the conference room at the back. Inside were Arx, EB, Torrik, and Chase. All poured over information on tablets, while three videos played on monitors around the room.
“What have you found? Torrik, what are you doing here?”
Torrik almost spoke, but EB answered, “I asked him to come. This is some serious magic to untangle. Normally, I’m really good at this. Like, a total pro. But, this is big trouble, and I didn’t want to make any mistakes. I know, it’s not like me to call in help, but even I can need help. This one time, I went to Bavaria when I was trying to figure out this new cake candy bar... sorry...” EB shrunk down in his seat at the withering glare from Nova.
Torrik said, “Krystal Fae is powerful and clever. This spell she used proved to be extremely complicated. In a strange way, it keeps track of important things for the past few days before it becomes active. Apparently, it is always there, and it works only if she’s in deep trouble.”
“Good to know. What did she send us?” Nova sat beside them.
Arx pointed at the video monitors. “EB and Torrik were able to translate what she saw into these videos. Snippets of what she saw each day, important things. There are several of her and Alex investigating those orbs, then going to a Fight Club in Tripoli and talking to the gym leader there. Then... well, look at this.” He pressed a button, but nothing happened.
“Oh, sorry. This is magic, not technical.” EB waved his paw at the screen.
They were looking at the world around Krystal from her eyes. It showed Krystal and Alex join forces with the small group in Africa. They saw the capture. While Krystal lay on her side, they witnessed the conversation between Antaeus and Mama Pepo. They even watched as the witch cast a spell over Krystal and she stood and spoke for a camera being held by the chief of Antaeus’s security.
When the images stopped, Nova said, “I want to know who this Antaeus is.”
Arx said, “We had the computers run searches across the globe and couldn’t find any information. Other than historical data about the Antaeus from Greek Mythology, we have nothing. The facial recognition program cannot seem to find any information. His stone face seems to cause the program some issues.”
Nova said, “Don’t tell me this is the real Antaeus, son of Poseidon and Gaia.”
Torrik said, “You can’t dismiss the possibility. Though doubtful he is a demi-god, he could be something like EB. An ancient alien who has only revealed himself again. Or something like that.”
“I have been around for a long time...” Nova started.
EB added, “A LOOOOOOOONG TIME. I mean, Nova is really, really, really old. Super old...”
“Thank you, EB.” Nova cleared his throat. “I have never encountered any Antaeus.”
Arx said, “We found some information on this woman.” He pointed at the witch. “Born Arafa Izou in a small tribe in Chad, Africa. She gained a reputation as a threat among the locals for her early involvement in forbidden tribal witchcraft. Locals accused her of cursing cattle, crops, and other women, but the justice system could not intervene because of the lack of tangible evidence. The locals started calling her Mama Pepo, or mother demon. BADGE registered that three years ago she gained morphon powers and has used them to enhance her witchcraft. She has been off our radar since she has done nothing to require the attention of BADGE... until now.”
Torrik said, “Apparently, from what I could tell, she is using some kind of morphonic magic to brainwash people. Through Krystal’s eyes, I can see that several of the surrounding people are currently being brainwashed. I doubt they know what they are doing.”
Nova said, “I don’t like this. If it were just this Mama Pepo, then we go in. But, I want to know more about this Antaeus. What kind of threat is he? Is he another puppet of hers?”
“No.” EB said, “Torrik and I checked every glimpse we could. He has no magical influence over him. He’s clean.”
Arx said, “But he is a threat. More than once, we witnessed earthquakes from Krystal’s eyes. I know ATLAS has been following minor quakes in that area recently,... a lot of them. I thought it was natural and nothing to worry about. But, now I believe he can do this. We could see he has a lot of control over the ground and rocks, so it adds up. But that also makes him a dangerous threat.”
Nova said, “Then we have little choice. This Antaeus and Mama Pepo have kidnapped BADGE agents, countless hostages, and others. They are a threat to that region and could present far-reaching dangers outside of that. So, I am going to authorize a full strike. EB, Torrik, I want you to help prepare our heroes for potential mental attacks. I don’t want any more brainwashed heroes. All leagues near there will be alerted for a full atta…”
“No! Please, don’t!” Adrianne rushed into the room.
Nova shot up and had his gun out, aimed right at her. “What the!”
She slid to a stop and found her arms being held by vines growing up from the ground under Torrik’s control. EB had two eggs ready to throw.
“Adrianne?” Arx got up and approached her.
“Please don’t attack him.”
Nova demanded, “How did you get in here? This is the most secured location on this station.”
She said, “I... had a card.”
“Oh, no.” Arx realized where this came from. “I gave that to you because I trusted you.”
“Please, understand. I had to come. I can’t let you do this.”
“Do what?” Nova asked, still livid.
She whispered, “Please, don’t kill my brother.”
Adrianne stood with Arx right next to her. While seated at the table, Nova glared at Adrianne with seriousness as he calculated his anger and curiosity.
“Tell me why I shouldn’t have your put in a cell right now,” Nova quietly asked.
Adrianne said, “I came to this station under false pretense... well, not entirely false. Okay, so this is what happened. My brother and I both gained morphon powers at the same time. I got ice powers, he got extremely powerful stone powers. We were both working with the universities’ anthropological survey teams and I wanted to finish my doctoral program before turning myself in for evaluation by BADGE. Wynn, my brother, realized just how powerful he was. As we traveled around the tribal parts of Africa, he enjoyed the way he scared the locals. Some of the more isolated tribes called him a god, naming one of their various gods. I told him to stop encouraging them, but he thought it was so much fun.”
EB said, “So, he set himself up as a god. Great. Another power mad idiot.”
“It wasn’t like that!” Adrianne yelled and then controlled herself. “Wynn has always had a desire for power. Not in the evil villain sort of way. As in, he always got elected class president, he desired to be the head of his fraternity, he became captain of the football team, he simply had a stronger inclination towards positions of authority than most. But it was harmless... until we encountered that damn witch.”
“Mama Pepo,” Nova said.
“Yes. She came to us and said she knew what we were, morphonic humans. She was one as well. Mama Pepo offered to help us realize our potential as gods over the ignorant tribes... she called them ignorant, which is far from true. I found her offer disgusting and bigoted. The offer intrigued Wynn, but he turned it down. We asked her to help us understand tribal superstitions better. In that time of learning from her, she slowly fed my brother more and more ideas of superiority. One night, he left with her. I didn’t know about it. They went, and she used her own powers to brainwash people and he presented himself as a god. Even chose that stupid name he got from Greek myth. When I found out, I was furious. I tried to reason with him, but he said it was better this way. We could unite all the indigenous people and build a society out of them. Turn the impoverished African continent into a world power like nothing before. He had gone power mad.”
Nova said, “This is all fascinating, but how does this bring you to us?”
“I knew he had to be stopped. I feared that any day BADGE would send in people to take him down. But you didn’t. I guess their plot to fly under the radar worked better than I expected. So, I turned myself in to the nearest Fight Club and asked to be brought here for training. I wanted to join the ATLAS team and work with them so I could convince them to come down and stop Wynn.”
“Why ATLAS?” Arx asked.
She looked down, not at him, “ATLAS helps, they don’t fight. BADGE sends in soldiers and Leagues to take villains down. I was afraid. My brother might be a little crazy right now, but he is still my brother. I wanted to have him come to his senses and let BADGE deal with that horrible witch. But things went sideways. I couldn’t convince Arx in time to investigate those tremors Wynn is causing, and now he has alerted BADGE. I just don’t want to see him hurt or killed. He’s not a horrible person, I promise.”
There was a long silence as Nova absorbed this.
Arx said, “I know what it means to get a second chance. I think we owe it to Adrianne to at least try this her way. Send in a smaller force to bring in this Wynn and capture Mama Pepo. Then we can get Krystal and Alex back and free the people they have brainwashed.”
Nova looked up at them, studying them for a moment. He then inclined his head toward EB. “What is the threat level right now?”
EB looked at a tablet and then said, “Right now, they are containing their little growing empire to a small group of indigenous people. Other than capturing our people, they haven’t done anything to challenge BADGE. So, low. I guess they aren’t really trying to conquer the world yet. They could soon, though. I mean, with what they are doing, it could get back quickly. But if we go in and stop them now with a small force, then it won’t be so bad. I…”
Nova held up his hand and EB went silent. “Fine. I will allow this. Arx, you take the lead. Bring Adrianne with you and a small team of your best.”
“And me,” Torrik said. “Knowing the power this Pepo is using, I can prepare counter magic to stop her from getting to us. And I have the best chance of breaking her curse.”
“I could do it too!” EB protested.
Nova said, “No. Torrik goes with them. EB, you stay here and get ready. If this goes sideways again, and we need to send in more people, we will need your power to counter her brainwashing.”
“Can do.” EB gave off a quick salute.
Adrianne almost fell to the floor. “Thank you, thank you. I... “
“You are lucky I was willing to listen. Never think you can just barge into secret meetings or secure locations ever again. Next time will not fare so well. I am only sending you on this mission because I believe you have the best chance of resolving this with your brother with no conflict. But do not think you aren’t under our authority. You will do what Arx says, which may include attacking your brother if he refuses to listen.”
“I understand. He is my brother, and I will do everything I can to protect him. I will not let him hurt innocent people for his power lust. You can trust me.”
“Trust is earned, and you will have to regain my trust. Don’t fail me. Now, get down to the ATLAS center and be ready to move out with the team.”
She turned to leave but found a hand on her shoulder. Arx pulled her into a hug and whispered into her ear, “We will do everything we can to save him.”
“Thank you.” She whispered back.
“Now, give me back my card before Nova kills me.”
She pulled out his card and handed it back to him, then left with a security robot to escort her back to the common area.
Arx turned around, more scared now than when he was facing a meteor bombardment for the first time. “First, I told her never to use this other than to get into the simulator. And, furthermore...”
Nova hit his fist so hard against the table that everyone in the room jumped, especially EB. “This will never happen again. You’re treading thin ice right now, Arx. We carefully vet those command cards and NEVER give them to anyone who hasn’t been registered in the computer. I never wanted to put tracking on all the people on this station, so to be certain they didn’t break the security rules. But, I guess that level of trust must be violated, thanks to you. Next time you violate BADGE rules like that again, you will find yourself looking for work planetside. Is that understood!?”
“Yes, sir.” Arx stood up straight.
“Now, go prepare a team and get to this mission.”
Arx’s departure from the room was so quick that even EB would be hard pressed to move faster.
Only the hush of the air conditioning and mild beeping of the pilot’s equipment made any sound inside the cabin of the BADGE shuttle. Arx was next to Adrianne, with Torrik behind them. Each sat in a captain’s style chair while Torrik required a bench with his goat-like lower body needing more room.
“So... any thoughts on the mission?” Torrik ventured.
Arx said, “I have activated the ATLAS members nearest our landing site. We will go in and see if we can find Krystal and Alex first. As long as you can inhibit the brainwashing element on us, we can force this Wynn and Pepo to listen.”
“Are you sure they will listen?” Torrik asked. “Brainwashing isn’t their only power. This Antaeus... or Wynn... is apparently strong enough to cause earthquakes. And a witch has more magic in her arsenal than just mind control.”
“I just need a chance to speak with my brother.” Adrianne said her first words since they left the station.
Arx coldly asked, “Do you think you can convince him to stop being a tyrant?”
“I know Wynn, at least I did once. There has to be something in him that is kind and will understand.”
“Let’s hope you can get through to him,” Arx said.
Torrik said, “So, the plan is to go in, see if we can free Krystal and her husband while you two attempt to change our enemy’s mind.”
“That’s about it,” Arx replied.
“Okay, well, I’ll prepare the counter charm to be placed on you two.”
Adrianne asked, “Are you sure it’ll work?”
“No.”
“No?” Arx blurted out.
“Magic, including your morphon style magic, is complicated. I’ll be using a more broad spell to counter her magic, but I could get wrong. However, don’t worry. This will probably work.”
“It better work, or we’re in trouble.” Arx said.
“Now, give me a few moments. I’ll have to concentrate and I won’t be able to hear you if you talk to me.” He put his hands in front of him and a blob of energy formed between them as he focused his eyes directly into the magic.
There was that silence again.
After a few moments, Adrianne whispered, “Thank you.”
“For what?” Arx asked.
“For convincing Nova to give my brother a second chance. I was so scared that no one in BADGE would listen to me. Wynn might be an egomaniac some days, but he’s still my brother. He taught me to ride a bike, punched the bullies that pulled my hair, and even scared away a few creeps that wouldn’t take no for an answer. There is a good man under all that brash arrogance.”
“You know full well why I said what I said. I believe in second chances because I was given one, and I have put my heart into being a better man, even when people refuse to see it.”
Adrianne looked down at her tangled up fingers as she said, “Look, Arx, what I said back there. I...”
“Ready.” Torrik looked up and held up both hands, each filled with this energy. “Hold still, this might feel funny.” Without warning, he put his hands on their heads and they had a wash of warm energy rush over their bodies.
“Oh, that’s making me feel dizzy,” Adrianne said as she leaned to the side with his hand still on her head.
Torrik said, “It can do that. It won’t last. Just breathe normally and imagine a peaceful place, and your mind will relax.”
With a quick release, Torrik let go and sat back down. “Wow, that was harder than I remember. Then again, I’m better with nature magic than normal magics. How do you feel?”
Arx said, “I don’t know. I felt the warmth on my skin, but not inside me. Is that normal?”
“No. You should have felt something in your head. Dizziness?”
“Nope.”
Adrianne said, “I’m still a little dizzy, but it’s passing.”
The robot at the helm announced, “Landing in three minutes.”
Torrik said, “No time to ponder this. Let’s hope it works.”
The shuttle jostled for a second and then the engines cooled down.
Torrik jumped up and went for the door. “I’ll scout ahead of you. This is my specialty.” He leapt through the door with the grace of a deer. Arx could see him almost vanish into the brush, his nature magic camouflaging him in the tall, brown grasses.
“We shouldn’t let him get too far ahead.” Arx got up and went for the door.
Adrianne stopped him before leaving. “I want to say this now, in case something goes horribly wrong.” She pulled him closer to her. “I didn’t run from you because of you. I was ashamed that you revealed your pain to me while I kept such a dark secret from you. Arx, you are a goofy, sexy, brave, honest hero and I think I love you.” With that, she gave him a passionate kiss.
With a goofy smile, he looked at her. “Really?”
“I’d prove it with a lot more kissing, but we don’t have time. My brother is out there and I have to save his life.” She went through the door ahead of him.
Sorting his jubilant excitement and his focused determination, he gathered his senses and clicked his comm, “Arx to the African Atlas team, you have your coordinates. Stay there until I signal you. I have landed. Going in to inspect the situation.”
***
Dried grasses crunched underfoot with each slow step. Arx lowered himself as much as he could and watched Adrianne in the distance. A glorious moon set on the horizon while warm rays of first light broke in the distance. Twinkling stars dotted the cool night sky above.
“Torrik?” Arx whispered as low as he could.
The grasses near him wavered, and a figure appeared in them. Torrik tapped his head near his eyes and then pointed forward. He walked slowly ahead. With each step, he would blend further and further into the grasses until he was once again invisible.
Arx lost sight of the moving grasses and was again wondering with their satyr guide was. He found Adrianne nearly laying on the ground.
“Do you see anything?” He whispered.
She shook her head. “My brother is stone colored. In this light, he’ll be almost invisible against the ground.” She returned his low tone.
Both nearly screamed, but held their voices when a hand met each of their backs. Torrik stood behind them and said, “I found Krystal. She is just ahead. Follow me.”
He walked around them and then led them without vanishing into the brush. Shapes of shadowed people sleeping on the ground came into sight. Hundreds lay in an area twice the size of a football field. A monument stood before them, a huge stone throne with torches around it.
“Look at all those people, that throne. Did my brother do all this?” Adrianne asked.
“Can’t say for certain, but it fits what EB said.” Torrik replied. He then pointed, “Look, that guard standing there.”
Arx saw a familiar form in the deep shadows. “Krystal.”
“What do we do?” Adrianne asked.
Arx said, “She is by herself. I think we can sneak up on her. Torrik, do you think you can break the mind control on her?”
“Not sure, but it is possible. If I can’t, we can capture her and take her back to the shuttle. Have her returned to the station.”
“Good plan.” Arx looked back, “Adrianne, stay here and watch our backs.”
Torrik blended into the grasses again and walked around the area to get closer to Krystal. Arx chose a more direct path, hoping to get her attention and let Torrik have a clear shot.
“Krystal?” Arx whispered in a louder tone.
Her head snapped to the side, and she pulled up a weapon. “Who goes there?”
It saddened Arx to see a gun in her hands. This was just not her, “Krystal. It’s Arx, your friend. Come on, we need to get out of here.”
She pulled up a walkie talkie and pressed a button on it, but before she could speak, a vine sprung up out of the ground and yanked her arm down. Her weapon and walkie both flew free from her. More vines trapped her, wrapping around her mouth and binding her to the ground.
Torrik stood over her. “Hey, Krystal. Time to come back to us.” He held up his hands and cast a spell. A cloud of pinkish purple energy hit her head and dissipated. “This isn’t right.” He tried again. “I need to know more about this magic. I can’t get it to break.”
“Then we take her back to the station.” Arx said.
“ARX!” Adrianne came running toward them.
He turned, and then the ground shook. He fell over.
Antaeus walked toward them, stomping as he moved. Each stomp created more tremors. “More BADGE pests.” He made a great big stomp, which created holes in the ground that were meant to absorb all three.
Arx jumped out of the way, recognizing this attack from the visions EB translated. Torrik went down, but then jumped clear out of the hole right away. Adrianne went down and then Arx quickly pulled her free with a yank of his hand.
Arx stood strong before Antaeus. “This will end. BADGE knows of this operation and the power behind it.”
“Wynn! Please stop this and turn yourself in. You can’t win.”
He looked over at her. “I’m so much more than your pathetic brother. And you’re hardly my sister. I would offer you the world, but you run to these people instead. A traitor is no sister of mine.”
“Brother! Please!”
Arx said, “The full force of BADGE will be on you if you don’t listen to your sister.”
Antaeus nodded. “I knew it would eventually come to that. Fortunately, I have my force of powered humans, which will include you three.”
“No likely.” Torrik said.
A green fog rolled in around them. Flecks of green light raced through it like lightning in a summer storm. Mama Pepo approached from behind Antaeus, that fog rolling out of her mouth and hands.
“This won’t work on us!” Arx proclaimed, but then fell to his knees. “It can’t... work...”
Adrianne fell over and gasped and gagged. “I can’t... think... I don’t know... Torrik... please...”
Torrik fell on his side and grasped at his throat. “No...it...it is...too strong.”
Nova stood before the large view screen in Operations while the robots monitored every sensor focused on Africa.
“All sensors are showing nothing out of the ordinary.” 10915 stated as it processed the collected data.
EB zoomed in and stopped with a paw up as a salute. “All heroes and BADGE agents are currently enchanted with an anti-brainwashing spell. Sir!”
“Stop saluting. That isn’t a BADGE thing.”
EB smiled, “It should be. It should be something unusual, not what everyone else does. Or, what if it was a secret handshake, or dance... ooh, a dance. Like the bunny hop, and everyone has to know it and do it before every official meeting. No, even better, a song with cool lyrics and a great guitar solo...”
“Is this conversation necessary?” Nova muttered.
“Just trying to make BADGE more interesting.”
“Alert: Contact missed.” One of the communication robots announced.
Nova said, “Report?”
“Scheduled contact has not been made.”
“Then send a request.”
There was a pause and then the robot stated, “Pilot robot reports no contact with agents since the departure of the shuttle.”
“Get me the ATLAS team members and the leagues in the area.”
“Contacting. “
A buzzer echoed in the room and the geological map of Africa had several red dots appearing with warnings. The computer announced, “Seismic activity rising in designated area. One hundred million people in danger zone.”
“I want boots on the ground! Activate all leagues and ATLAS teams. MOVE!”
Moments before:
Mama Pepo walked around the trio of fallen people. They were face down, simply breathing. Antaeus chortled as he stood over Adrianne.
“I told her not to come back unless she wanted to join me.”
Pepo looked back at him with a critical gaze on her wrinkled face. “Do you have feelings that will interfere with your plans? She is your sister.”
“She hasn’t been my sister since I became more than human. She has betrayed me and even brought BADGE goons to hunt me down. They are all fools, and she will join my ranks with your help.”
Mama Pepo smiled and leaned over Arx. She swished her hand in the air and a green cloud formed. “This one is resistant to my powers, but he will succumb. Your sister is already under my control.”
“What about that one? I’ve never seen a superhuman with goat's legs before.”
Pepo moved over Torrik and touched the horns on his head. “This one isn’t human. I don’t know what he is. There is great power in him, but I cannot connect to him like the others. No matter, he fell, he will rise under my command soon enough.” She did the same, swishing over him and let the cloud form. Once it was in place, she stood and walked back toward Antaeus. “Your army is powerful, and you need to be ready. BADGE will not give up now that we have captured even more of their agents.”
“I have a legion of human shields. BADGE won’t cut down women and children. Even if they do, they will be surprised by the army of morphonic humans under my control.”
“Good. Now... AHHHH!” A vine grabbed Pepo by the leg and yanked her off the ground.
More vines sprung up and picked Antaeus up as well, holding him aloft.
Torrik pushed himself up, his eyes and horns glowing with a golden hue. “Thanks for letting me sense your powers up close. Now I know what I’m dealing with.”
“WHAT THE HELL!” Antaeus struggled against the growing vines.
Mama Pepo called out a few words of magic and a blast of green energy shot at Torrik.
He put both arms together and deflected the attack with easy. “I have been fighting dark magic users for years, trained by the best in Yohan. You’re an ancestor of one of the few witches who stayed behind when the rest of the magical kinds left this world long ago. There is real magic in you mixed with this morphon stuff. A bad combination, but nothing I can’t fight.” He side stepped another blast and then threw his arm out. A new vine grew out of those around her and wrapped her face to keep her from speaking. “Enough word magic.”
A blast of energy hit Torrik in the back, and he staggered forward. Turning, he had Alex dashing toward him with an anti-morphon gun. “Oh, great. Good thing I don’t use morphons for magic. Here, enjoy a nice rest.” He whispered something in the wind and a blue energy hit Alex in the face, who skidded to a stop and flopped over, fast asleep.
“My minions are nothing compared to me. No one can stop me!” Antaeus struggled, and the ground beneath Torrik shifted and shivered.
Torrik wobbled, but kept his footing. “Nice. Your control is impressive.”
“Glad for the review. Now, try THIS!” Antaeus yelled and a fissure split under where he was dangling and sped toward Torrik, attempting to swallow him.
Torrik stomped on the ground just as the fissure got to him, and he stopped it. “I’ve fought rock golems, sand golems, and earth elves. Don’t bother.” He flipped his head back and his horns glowed extra bright. Several hundred vines joined the first batch and plants nearly mummified Antaeus.
“As for you.” Torrik casually approached Pepo and put a hand on her forehead. “I know exactly how to stop you.” Pulling his hand back, he spoke a spell and a green ball of energy came out of her as her eyes rolled into her skull. With a motion like squishing a bug, he destroyed the ball of energy. She screamed under the vines and a cloud erupted out of each person in the area that was controlled by her power.
Arx groaned and pushed himself up. “What... what happened?”
Adrianne got up to her knees and held her head. “I could hear everything. But I couldn’t control my body.”
Arx looked around in the early morning light. The people scattered all over the area were in the same state of bewildered awakening. Men, women, children, and even the guards who worked for Antaeus.
“It’s over,” Torrik triumphantly announced, but his announcement was cut short by screeching old women and then yelling men.
“What’s happening?” Adrianne asked.
Antaeus laughed, “Insurance. My followers weren’t just obedient, but also had a deep connection with me. This could not control the super powered, but it could control the normals. The power that enchanted them tied their very souls to it. Now that you took away the control, Mama Pepo’s spell will rip their bodies apart. Give me back control or watch thousands of innocents die.”
“WYNN! NO!” Adrianne cried out.
“I AM NOT YOUR BROTHER!” He struggled, the vines around his body snapping and ripping apart.
Torrik ran over to Mama Pepo and yelled, “Stop this!” She cackled under the vines around her face, delighted at his fury.
Arx said, “BADGE Will send a legion after you, Antaeus. Free these people.”
“It’s too late. I can’t free them and I won’t try. I want to watch BADGE endure this suffering, knowing they could have avoided it if they just let me be.”
“Your a monster!” Adrianne said.
“Your a traitor.”
Torrik spent a second watching Antaeus freeing himself and then at the agonized people. He glanced back at Arx. “Take him down. I’ll give you time.” Without explanation, he rushed into the thick of the writhing mass of innocent victims and got to his hands and knees. His body emitted a glowing white light that spread out. The people stopped crying and wailing, but they were still in obvious pain.
Antaeus hit the ground when the magical vines all evaporated. The earth trembled at his impact and he stood, growing in size as he got back up to his feet.
“If I can’t have this world, I will destroy it. I am the Earth, I am the heart of this planet. I can rebuild it in my image. You will rue the day you tried to stop a GOD!” He was now several stories tall, and the ground rocked and cracked at his steps.
When Antaeus reached down to crush his sister, Arx body slammed his massive hand, deflecting it, and then quickly grabbed her and bolted. “We have to get help!”
“It’s too late. BADGE can’t get here fast enough.” Adrianne said.
A blinding blast of energy hit Antaeus, followed by dozens of smaller bolts of power. A tree flew by and nailed him in the head while a dirigible blasted out missiles.
Nova’s voice came over their comms. “BADGE to ground teams. This is a full alert. Arx has lead, follow his orders. GO!”
“How did they know?” Adrianne watched hundreds of heroes spilling out of rifts and aircraft.
Arx laughed, “BADGE watches over this planet for a reason.” He clicked his comm, “All heroes, focus all your attacks on Antaeus, the big stone guy, hard to miss. Bring him down. ATLAS team alpha, I need a civilian extraction at my location. Bring medical teams. All other ATLAS teams, you’re on civilian watch, get to nearby towns, cities, and any other inhabited location and evac. MOVE!”
Antaeus stomped with his behemoth foot and the ground shook across a five-mile radius. The quaking overtook heroes who were running or walking. Flying heroes buzzed by him, showering his stone form with blasts of energy. Nothing seemed to get through as he laughed at their onslaught.
A hero rushed toward him, transforming into a cheetah as she went. She was able to jump up and bound off of rocks, limbs, and other heroes instead of being rattled by the shaken earth.
“Not today!” Antaeus bellowed, and a hole opened where she was about to land.
With a sickening crunch, the earth consumed the poor hero in a massive slam that buried her remains in an instant grave.
Swinging down to hit the ground with his fist again, two strength heroes rushed in and caught his fist, holding him in place.
“NOW!” One yelled and they both used their super powers to fling Antaeus over them and slam his enormous form into the ground.
A quick bounding woman jumped up and flung her hands out, throwing small globs of purple goo. When it reached Antaeus, it puffed into massive mounds of sticky substance that bound his arms and legs down.
“FOOLS! I AM THE EARTH!” He bellowed, and the world shook yet again, this time with giant spikes of rock jutting up all over the place in random attacks. Several heroes suffered gruesome evisceration. As heroes contended with the prickly ground, Antaeus ripped himself free of the goo. He got back to his feet, a wicked laughter on his lips.
Arx stood to the side, giving orders and listening to the reports as people said what they were experiencing while fighting.
A hero reported from the middle of the fight. “We just lost Giga Morphina, and Thunder Flare was cut in half by a spike.”
A man yelled through his comm, “We need someone like Midgard. He would pound this man into rubble!”
Arx said, “We don’t have anyone like Midgard. He was one of a kind.” The Earth shook again, and he had to keep his footing. Once that passed, he said, “All ground heroes, pull back. Get to a safer location. We have a back-up plan coming in! Once he is tethered, take him down.”
“What?” a voice asked through the comm.
“You’ll understand when it happens. Just pull back. I don’t want any more deaths.”
Adrianne, waiting with Arx, asked, “What is your backup plan?”
“He’s coming in now.”
“Will it kill Wynn?” she asked, still hesitant to say this.
Arx said, “We have no choice but to use whatever is necessary.”
“There has to be another way.”
Arx said, “He has already taken so many lives and he won’t stop. We have to put him down for good.”
She said, “I... I can’t. Please, I know it doesn’t make sense, but I can’t watch him die today. Take him to the station, get him away from the Earth. Maybe that will stop his powers. Do something... just don’t kill him.”
Arx wanted to launch into a sermon on the mass murder her brother was guilty of. However, his mind flashed with all those news reports of what he did before, how many people he killed in L.A. when he was Arx the villain. If he said Wynn should die, then he should also face execution.
Just then, Furious Squirrels dirigible flew over them. A massive chain weapon blasted out from the front of it and wrapped around Antaeus several times. A blast from the energy weapon followed this, stumbling the bound enemy back a few steps.
Arx clicked his comm. “Heroes. Bring him down, but don’t kill him. I... “
A purple blast of light flew over him. Krystal Fae said, “Sorry, he doesn’t get mercy.”
“NO!” Adrianne cried out.
A green blast of light hit Krystal, and she slammed into the ground. That green light continued to glow around her as it lifted her up and then flung her back against several trees.
Mama Pepo, battered and disheveled, stood off in the distance, controlling this display of wicked magic. With Krystal Fae recovering on the ground, Mama Pepo muttered her magic and a green fog rolled out from her.
“Stop her!” Arx ran for the old woman.
Krystal spoke a word of magic, and a purple flash of light shoved the cloud to the ground. Another blast hit the old witch. Pepo was far sturdier than expected and withstood the attack. She returned with a counter spell of her own. The two magical beings fought back and forth with one another. Each was moving so fast that Arx couldn’t get close enough to be of any help.
Krystal threw a bolt of magic and then yelled, “I have her! Stop Antaeus!”
Arx looked back and watched Antaeus struggling against the exotitanium chains they had bound him with. Speaking into the comm, Arx ordered, “Heroes, bring him in. I want him lifted off the ground and moved as high as possible.”
Flying heroes joined by the Dirigible flew over the writhing Antaeus. They tethered him with energy bindings and more cords. The heroes who could lift him off the ground carried most of the energy bindings while attaching the chains to the dirigible.
Like a toddler tantrum, Antaeus started flailing his legs and body around, kicking the ground and screaming in fury. Each time his heel met the earth, rocks exploded up, or the ground quaked.
“Stop him!” Shinobi punched his fists into the ground and tried to use his own powers to stop the onslaught. The quake rushing toward him stopped, but then an explosion erupted under his feet and threw him through the air.
Heroes struggled and more than one started fighting him again as before, but it was all worthless. His flailing made the quaking earth break and shatter. Great fissures were forming. The ground consumed forests, and cracks that broke deep into the mantle spewed up lava.
Krystal dodged a blast of magic, as well as several random rocks, and was about to reply when Mama Pepo staggered and stumbled with the shaking earth. The ancient witch took up a firm stance and was ready to continue her fight when a fissure formed under her feet. All she left was a look of horror as the world swallowed her and the fires of the mantle extinguished her evil.
Arx fell to the ground and held the earth for dear life. He couldn’t get back up, it would only bring him down to his knees again. Antaeus fell back to the ground, all the energy bindings broken, only the massive chains still binding him. His psychotic rampage grew exponentially by the moment.
Nova’s voice came over his comm. “Arx, what’s going on? We’re reading a class 10 seismic reading. The East Africa Rift is about to split apart.”
Arx rolled across the ground and then kicked a boulder away from hitting him. “Antaeus is going to destroy this world. We can’t stop him.”
“You have to!”
The shaking and quaking slowed down and then stopped. A new silence filled the area, only cut by an odd whistle.
Arx slowly rose, resting on his knees. A bright blue glow glistened off everything as one hero hovered in the air, weeping as she emit a beam of cold blue light. Adrianne held out one hand and touched Antaeus’s heart with her power. The monster, still on the ground, was hardly moving. His stone body had become dark, with a thick frost growing in places. His head fought hard to turn, but did so that his eyes could look at his sister in both terror and utter disbelief. In an instant, his rock body exploded into billions of shards of earth and dust, scattering his remains across the fractured land he once ruled as a god king.
Adrianne remained in the air, a goddess of ice stoically hovering as she observed the results of her actions.
“Report!” Nova’s loud request made Arx jump.
He said, “Antaeus is dead.”
“How?”
“I will get back to you on that. Arx out.” He clicked his comm off, while Nova protested. With tender, timid steps, he approached her. “Adrianne?”
She lowered to the ground, her glow dimming with each second. She let herself sink into a half laying position, resting her hands on the earth with tears running down her face. “What have I done?”
“You have no choice. We would all have died.”
She whispered, “He was my brother. I loved him. I... I killed him. What have I done!” She started wailing and sobbing.
Arx knelt down and held her extremely cold body in his arms, knowing no words could help her right now. All he could do was let his heart beat with hers. Arx understood this pain uniquely. He was the monster once. He took innocent lives for fun, and now he knows exactly how the pain looked in all the minds, hearts, and souls of those left behind. There were no words to help, they simply do not exist.
Krystal Fae and Alex left the docking bay and found their way into the mess hall. Torrik got up from his table and hurried over to them.
“I’m glad you’re here.” He greeted them.
Krystal smiled. “I thought you would be. You’ve sent me five messages asking when we would be back.”
Torrik said, “I’m so sorry I used such a powerful sleep spell on you, Alex. I didn’t know it would stick for so long.”
Alex shook his head and gave a shooing motion with his hand. “Don’t fret. Three days of sleep did a lot of good. I haven’t felt this refreshed since before the baby was born.”
Krystal said, “I was far more worried. I tried every counter spell I know. What kind of magic was that?”
“Old wizard spell. I don’t know too many wizard spells, but the ones I know are powerful.” Torrik gestured for the lift. “I assume you’re here to give a report to Nova.”
“Yup. What little we can tell him.” Krystal stopped at the door and swiped her BADGE authorization card.
Torrik asked, “What does it look like on the ground in Africa?”
“Pretty messy.” Alex stepped into the lift with Krystal and Torrik. “The earthquakes and fissures shredded a ten square mile area. The ground consumed entire forests and several small volcanoes erupted.”
Krystal added, “Fortunately, once Antaeus’s powers were no longer causing the problem, the volcanic activity receded back into the deeper parts of the earth. So, no more lava threats.”
Alex said, “The ground has suffered extensive destruction. Almost no plant or animal life to be found. And the stress on the natural fault line has set all the seismic sensors on alert. It will take some time for things to settle down.”
“The people are also still struggling. So many people were kidnapped from their homes. We also know that many people lost their lives. We don’t have exact data. All the people working for Antaeus underwent brainwashing. They remember little to help identify who was executed. This is going to take a long time to sort out.”
Torrik waited as the doors opened and then stepped out with them. “I wish I could go down and help. I could use my own magics to help clean up the rocks and ground and encourage plant growth.”
Krystal said, “I, too, wanted to offer help. But, people are feeling nervous around there. Magical beings running around scares them. A satyr and a fae aren’t as welcome right now as you might think. But, in time, they will give us the chance.”
Torrik asked, “So, did you find anything out about the spheres for Nova?”
Alex frowned. “How did you know we were... “
“I’ve been running investigations for two centuries in Yohan. I realized what you were up to pretty quickly.”
Nova, standing in the front of the monitor of the room, called to them. “Are you going to report or not?”
Krysta and Alex walked down with Torrik behind them.
Torrik said, “I just came to let you know I’ll be working with the ATLAS team for a while, helping run things for a few days.”
“Thanks. Arx needs some time off.” Nova said, “Now, what about your report?”
“Do you want to do this in private?” Krystal asked.
Nova said, “Torrik knows what you were up to, and I suppose his critical mind could be of use. So, let him in.”
“Fine.” Alex started, “We found little. We know no more about what is inside those spheres or why they are out there. But we are now certain they are behind people gaining new powers.”
“What makes you so sure?”
Krystal said, “Deductive reasoning. We explored thirty of those spheres. Every location had a massive increase of people with morphonic powers.” She snapped her fingers and a computer data chip appeared. “Here, I did a correlation map.”
Nova took it and plugged it into the computer nearest them. On the monitor were thirty small icons, each with a city name under it. Nova pointed to three of them and they opened up to show a simple map of the city where the spheres denoted and red dots around them.
“What am I looking at?”
“Each read dot is a person who discovered their powers after those spheres appeared. In every city, with no exception, the numbers show an extreme difference between the zones further away and nearer to the spheres. There is no question they are causing the powers to manifest. How and why, we still don’t know.”
Alex said, “We were going to explore further and continue with a new angle for this investigation when we were caught up in the Antaeus situation.”
Nova said, “This isn’t enough to force Renn Tech to allow us access to their technology. I want you to get back to this investigation. You’ve done exceptional work. Keep at it. We need to crack this.”
“After some rest, we’ll get back to it,” Alex said.
Nova saw a strange look in Torrik’s eye. “Do you see something?”
“Not about this map. But, an idea. In my world, people can’t learn magic unless they’re born with the innate ability. And, there are different types, elemental elves, witches, satyrs, wizards, pixies... and others.”
“Where are you going with this?” Krystal said.
“Are people born with morphons?”
“Not that we’ve found. People gain powers from having morphons infuse their bodies.”
Torrik pointed at the map. “There are hundreds of dots in that city alone. But, I’ve been in this Paris before, I know it is full. There are hundreds of thousands of people. And I know more than a few hundred pass that sphere every day. Why aren’t they all coming down with powers?”
“I don’t know.”
Torrik said, “You might investigate the possibility that people are born with something in them that grants them the ability to use morphons. That could help.”
Alex asked, “In what way?”
“Any information is good information in an investigation. Knowing more about how morphons cause powers can only give you help in finding answers.”
“Good idea. I’ll talk with Dr. Henderson about this,” Nova said.
Torrik looked at the screen. “Oh, look at the time. I have to help the trainees in ATLAS work through that Antaeus simulation.”
Krystal asked, “When do you think Arx will be ready to get back to work?”
Nova answered, “soon. He needs to be with her for a while.”
***
Arx sat down on the same stone bench in the arboretum, where he first confessed his true identity to Adrianne. In quiet sadness, she was already sitting on the bench, looking at the ground.
“Do you want to talk?” He asked.
She said, “The therapist says I should talk.”
“What do you want to do?”
“Cry. But, I can’t. It’s like my body is tired of crying and won’t let me.”
He reached over and took her hand. “I know how it feels.”
“How?” Her tone was bitter, as if no soul in the universe could know how this feels.
“As Arx, the celebrity villain, I threw an aircraft carrier at Los Angles. The video recording I, unfortunately, saw caught the screams. I got to hear the hundreds of people I crushed. There is a memorial in the Heroes Hall to the hero who gave his life to save the city from my last petty act. I get to see his smiling face and hear people remember him. I cried like a baby when I heard those screams. I cried when I saw that hero’s face. I cried in my sleep, I cried in my therapy, I cried all the time until I felt my body simply ache instead of crying. I still dream of the babies that probably died, the families torn apart...sorry, this is not the time to talk about this.”
She gulped back the dryness and then said, “No. I get it. You know pain like I can’t, and I know pain like you can’t. But, in a way, we both understand the pain in a way most of the others here don’t. It helps. I don’t feel alone.”
He leaned over and took her around the back with an arm. “You aren’t alone. And you can hold me any time you feel lost and abandoned. I was so alone with my pain and there was no one there to hold me. I want to hold you and keep you from feeling loneliness.”
She buried herself in him, pushing her face into his left shoulder as her body shook in deep sobs. “Does it ever go away?”
Pressing her up closer to him, he said, “No. But, in time, you learn that life will go on. That you can live, and that the sadness is not something wrong, it means you care. Right now, you can break, fall apart, and be utterly sad. I will hold you and keep your pieces in my arms so you never lose them when you are ready to put yourself back together.”
She broke out in sobs again, crying out, “I miss my brother.” Arx held her to him and let her weep at what she has lost.
***
“AGENT JUSTIN!” A BADGE agent ripped open the flap on the tent Justin slept in.
Sitting up in his cot, Justin groggily said, “Do you know what time it is?”
“Sir, we have an emergency.”
“At four A.M.? What is it?”
“The remains are missing?”
“What?” He jumped out of bed.
She led him outside to an energy barrier. BADGE scientist stood outside the barrier holding sensor equipment. This was ground zero of the battle with Antaeus.
“I see nothing? Is someone attacking?” Justin asked.
She said, “No. We came to start the morning scans and found none of Antaeus’s remains present.”
“None? There was a square mile of dust and rocks left behind.”
She said, “All of his remains carried a specific energy signature. We can’t find a scrap of him out here. It’s like someone has removed him down to the last atom.”
“Who could do this? And why?” Justin asked.
Chase walked through the BADGE space station with a group of people who gawked at everything like nervous tourists. Some were seemingly in retirement age, while most were in their late teens.
“This is the Mess Hall, which has five restaurants present, some you might recognize…”
A teen boy yelled out, “Oh, cool, you have Julio’s Tacos! I love that place.”
“Yes, BADGE felt that the Mess Hall should have a familiar feel and taste for all the people who pass through the station regularly.”
A middle-aged woman stuck her hand up and asked, “How long will this take?”
“The tour will be over shortly. The testing range is being set up right now.”
“No, I mean this testing and assessment process.”
Chase stopped and said, “As you know, International Law requires all people who develop morphon based abilities must come here to be assessed and tested. The test and assessment normally take a day. After that, one of the BADGE officials will meet with you about your results and offer you the choice of how to proceed.”
“What options will you give us?” the woman asked.
A young man said, “I heard they throw you in prison if you don’t accept the job of a hero in one of the leagues.”
Another woman cried out, “I don’t want to fight crime!”
Chase held up her hands. “This is not the time or place to discuss this matter. I can tell you that prison is not an option. Don’t be worried. This is for your benefit and safety. Now, come with me. Next we will look into the arboretum, my favorite place on this station.” She led them away from the tables for the nearest doors to the arboretum.
Nova pressed his key card into a door sensor and walked into the theater on the station. Right now, only EB sat in the front row of seats with a cell phone two inches from his nose as he furiously tapped buttons.
“Computer, set screen for assessment,” Nova calmly ordered.
The movie screen slid up slowly, revealing a thick pane of transparent metal that was almost as clear as air. On the other side was a large room with a few training robots standing in the corners and several devices hanging down from the ceiling.
“Yes! Level five hundred!” EB yelled and then continued playing on his phone.
Nova sat next to him and casually asked, “Has Chase given you the report on class size?”
EB didn’t answer as he kept playing on the phone.
“EB!”
“Oh, hey, bud, when did you get here?” EB looked up, blinking a few times.
“Just now. I told you not to play games while on duty.”
EB held up the phone, “But, this isn’t just a game player, this is my new Ren Phone. Cool, isn’t it? I got the Nebula Five before anyone else. Latest and greatest! This thing has an awesome camera and the most memory space of any phone. I’ve already downloaded five of my favorite games. I would’ve downloaded the City Superheroes, but the company sold out and the new owners just sunset it. What jerks! I had like two thousand hours of playtime in that. Five accounts, and was top level on all the boards. I think I’ll give that developer a big basket of exploding eggs next week when… oh, uh... what did you ask me?”
Nova’s eye had been twitching for a long enough time for EB to finally get the point. “Has Chase given us a class size?”
“Oh, yeah, she said there are eleven people here for assessment.”
Arx walked in from a different door and sat down. He had a bucket of popcorn in his hands. “Didn’t we just test seven new people three days ago?”
Nova nodded, “Yes. That makes almost thirty this month alone.”
“Odd.” Arx crunched through a handful of popcorn.
Dr. Henderson sat down near Nova and said, “Not so odd with what we’ve been finding out.”
“Have you got results back already?” Nova asked.
She said, “Not comprehensive results from all the air and soil samples. But, I can already tell you that there is a strange spike in morphon levels across the planet.”
“Is that dangerous?” Arx asked.
“Not really. They aren’t that high, just higher than normal. I can’t positively say that this is why more people are showing up with abilities, but it makes some sense.”
Arx blurted out, “You have the 5!”
“What are you talking about?” Nova asked.
EB held up his phone. “Yup, the Nebula Five. Got it the second it went on sale. Pays to be the Easter Bunny.”
Arx pulled out his, “I still have the 4. Wow, what kind of upgrades does this one have? I heard the camera has… um… sorry.” He saw red in Nova’s one good eye.
Chase walked the team of people into the theater room and lined them up in front of the window. “Ladies and gentlemen, this is Director Nova, head of BADGE. Dr. Henderson, chief science and medical officer of BADGE. Arx, leader of ATLAS, and EB, head consultant.”
There were several flashes from phones as some of the teens took pictures.
A girl said, “This is so cool. THE Director Nova and the Easter Bunny in the same room. This is going on my PictoGram right now. This is going viral.”
Director Nova stood and said, “Today, we will assess your morphonic abilities. Don’t be nervous, you aren’t being graded, just showing us what you can do. The process will move forward tomorrow with results of the tests and then we will lay our potential opportunities for you. BADGE is pleased to say this is a painless process. Enjoy your stay with us.”
Arx asked, “questions?”
A girl jumped up and asked Nova, “Can I get a selfie with you?”
“No.”
EB hopped up, “Cool idea!” He snapped a picture with his phone of him and Nova. “Aw, you’re glaring again. You take terrible pictures.”
“SIT DOWN!” His outburst scared the guests. “Sorry about that. He gets easily distracted. Now, please, take a seat and we will test you one at a time.”
Chase looked at a computer tablet. “Mike Johnson, please, head through that door into the next room and show us what abilities you have.”
A twenty something guy got up and walked to the front of the theater where a heavy metal door led into the large room on the other side.
Nova pressed a button on the arm of his chair. “Proceed, using anything in the room necessary for your demonstration.”
“Uh, sir, my power can be…”
“Don’t worry. The room dampens the effects, so you’re unlikely to hurt yourself and you cannot hurt us. Just relax and show me what you can do.”
“Okay.” His tone was worried.
He held out his arms and a gust of wind spun out from his body and continued spinning, taking up several of the robots with it, spiraling them in the air. However, as the air blasted out from him, it took his clothes with it and he was now standing in a tornado of items, completely naked.
“GAH! Stop!” EB covered his eyes, as did several people in the room.
Dr. Henderson pressed a button on her seat and a jumpsuit fell down from a slot in the testing room. “Please, put on that jumpsuit.” The doctor then said to the crowd, “If your power will strip you naked or cause you any physical harm to perform, let us know now.”
“Is he dressed yet?” EB asked, his paws still covering his face.
“Yes.” Arx replied, while scribbling notes onto a computer tablet.
Nova pressed the button. “Thank you. You may return to the theater.”
Chase stood to call the next person, but a buzzer sounded and Gar’s voice came over the comm. “Director Nova, we’re receiving an alert from the planet. You might want to come up here.”
“On my way.” Nova stood, “Arx, Doctor, continue without me. I’ll be in Operations.”
Nova stepped out of the left into the Operations center of the station. The Robots minding the computers ignored his presence, but Gar smiled and waved at him from the front of the room.
“Report,” Nova stated the moment he approached.
Gar pointed to the screens. “We started getting these reports moments ago. Lots of them across the planet, in fact.”
Nova looked at the video feeds from major cities. Large metallic spheres hovered in the air. They were as large as a hot-air balloon, but more round and seemingly not tethered to anything.
“What are they?”
Gar said, “We don’t know. It’s not possible to scan them. We’re getting reports from cities all over the world.”
Nova spent a long moment examining the images. “I don’t like this.”
Nova quietly watched the screen as the orbs appeared over major cities, filling their video feeds. Sensor readings scrolled along the side of the screen.
Robot 10915 said, “Sensor are unable to penetrate the outer shell of the spherical object.”
Nova was about to suggest the next course of action when a familiar sound rang through the room. A dozen smaller screens with faces on them appeared along the bottom of the giant view screen. These were military leaders or national leaders of nations all over the earth.
“BADGE. What is going on?” A man with a thick Hindi accent demanded.
A man with a lot of decoration on his uniform yelled, “I want answers!”
Several more made the same bold statements, while Nova remained patiently silent.
After they had their say, Nova calmly answered, “We’re currently investigating the situation. So far, nothing bad has happened, only shocking.”
“Do we wait until one of them explodes or summons an army of gremlins?” The Secretary of Defense for the United States said.
Nova answered, “I’ll alert the leagues to monitor this and I’ll assign BADGE operatives to do a hands-on investigation. The moment we believe there could be a genuine threat, you will be told. All of BADGE resources will help evac citizens while the heroes deal with it.”
“Is that all you have?” The Canadian Prime Minister asked in a not-so-respectful tone.
Nova said, “It’ll have to do for now. Unless this situation changes, do not contact me about it until further notice.” He pressed a button on a panel and all the screens closed.
Gar timidly approached, “Director, was that the best way to handle that? We need a good image for the world.”
“We’ve saved this world so many times, we don’t need to tip-toe around with politeness while blow-hards treat me like a junior officer. We’ll do our job. Now, I need you to do something.”
“Anything.” Gar smiled.
“We have a growing class of people to assess, and I need all my best investigators up here. I want you to go down to the planet and work with Krystal Fae. Inspect these spheres and see what you can find up-close.”
“I will. But, why Krystal?”
Nova said, “She is an excellent investigator, which is why she is a talented journalist. Plus, she has an innate connection to arcane morphons.”
“Do you think this has something to do with morphons?”
Nova shook his head. “I don’t have any clear evidence. We can’t scan these damn things. But, morphon activity has increased and these spheres suddenly show up... there’s a strong chance that the two events are connected.”
Gar headed for the door, but then stopped. “Wait, where is Krystal Fae?”
“She was working with Torrik in North Onnotangu on the Recovery Project.”
“Right, I forgot. Okay, I’ll find them and investigate the nearest orb.”
“Get to it.”
Krystal Fae strolled through a beautiful vineyard that bristled with blossoms at this time of year. Row upon row of grapes grew near a quaint little farm that had rested on this hill for three centuries. Torrik scrutinized the vines and smiled every few moments and then move to the next space.
“This is the most beautiful vineyard I’ve ever seen,” Krystal mused.
Torrik stood up and looked over the vast field. “This is what the care of a true satyr with nature magic can do.”
“But you hardly used any magic. You’ve been caring for this field for the past few months. And the fields of rice on the other side of Onnotangu, and those groves of pear trees, and the field of strawberries near the southern border.”
Torrik said, “All I did was help revitalize the soils and use some magic to encourage the early growth to get things started.” He took in a great breath and let it out slowly, “Makes me sad to go back to my job as a guardian and warrior. I love growing things.”
“I’m glad we’re helping this country move forward. Give this a year or two and they’ll have crops to export and grow their economy.”
Torrik nodded, “Yes. Such a sad story you told. A government so corrupt and controlling that the people were almost completely brainwashed to believe living in poverty, starvation, and under the thumb of dictators was normal. I’m glad to see that they have a good government now and a wise leader.”
“Shizue is the best. And, with a little help, they’ll build a fine nation under her.”
A woman walked up with gloves on. She bowed to them and then said, “Thank you. The vineyard is going to be thriving this year.” She spoke in the language of Onnotangu, but their translators could understand her.
Torrik said, “It should be fine. You might want to keep an eye on the bugs.”
“I will.” She bowed again. “Excuse me, your bag has been buzzing for two hours.”
“Our bag is buzzing?” Torrik frowned.
Krystal frowned and then gasped. “Our comm units. We took them off to keep them from getting dirty.” She ran over and opened up the satchel, pulling out their wrist comms. “Wow, we both have a dozen news alerts.”
“What are those?” Torrik joined her.
“BADGE sets all the comms to alert heroes to potential problems being reported by the national and international news services.”
“Well, what’s the news?”
Krystal handed him his unit, which he struggled to turn on. She activated hers and read over the news reports. “What’s this? It says there are metal orbs showing up all over the world, hovering over major cities.” She scrolled through it, “Oh, no. We also have messages from Prime Minister Shizue. I bet I know why.”
Torrik looked at his device and snarled, “I wish you people used magic glass and not this horrible stuff. I can’t figure it out.”
Krystal had hers up to her head, listening to the message on it from the Prime Minister. “Just what I thought. There is an orb over the capital and she’s worried.”
Torrik said, “I wouldn’t be too worried. If this was really bad, BADGE would have sent us an official message, or sent a shuttle with someone to take us to. . .”
They watched as a BADGE shuttle decloaked near them and lowered into an open grassy area.
“Good call,” Krystal muttered.
Gar stepped out of the shuttle and walked over. “Krystal, Torrik, I’m here to pick you up.”
“Where are we going?” Torrik asked.
Krystal read her missed message. “Apparently, we’re to investigate the sphere currently over the capital of North Onnotangu.”
“Yeah, that.” Gar said.
Torrik asked, “Why us? I’m not a scientist.”
Krystal added, “And I’m only a part-time BADGE agent. I have other duties.”
“Nova said that the regular agents are too busy. This doesn’t seem to be a big threat. He just wants someone to look closer than the sensors can read. Also, this might have something to do with the morphon increase, and he thought you and Torrik could sense something about that. He said you were a talented investigator as well.”
Krystal laughed. “I suppose if Nova will throw a compliment my direction, I should at least try. What do you say, Torrik? You’re a free agent, you don’t have to obey. You could stay here and tend your plants.”
Torrik shrugged. “The plants are doing fine. I don’t mind helping, though I doubt I can be of any use. I promised to offer my help for a few months before heading back to Yohan.”
Gar gestured toward the shuttle. “Then, we can go?”
“No need.” Krystal waved her hand and a magical portal opened.
“Nice. You have such a keen grasp of magic.” Torrik said.
“The ‘Fea’ in my name isn’t just for fun. Now, let’s move.” She walked through the portal, followed closely by Torrik.
Gar signaled the shuttle to leave, and he, too, followed them. The moment he stepped out of the portal, he was in the central square of the capital city of North Onnotangu. A team of officers of the new military waited while Prime Minister Shizue looked at the orb, with a few of her scientists examining it with instruments.
“Alert! Unauthorized use of morphonic powers! Alert! Unauthorized us of…” The speakers screamed this out with a rough sound of an old recording. Red lights flashed on top of poles and small turrets popped up from inside old boxes and aimed weapons at the trio.
“Wait! We aren’t villains!” Torrik yelled out.
The streets of the Capital of North Onnotangu echoed with sirens screaming about unauthorized morphonic powers. The turrets attempted to fire weapons that no longer had ammo, causing them to rattle.
Prime Minister Shizue yelled over the cacophony, “Someone stop that awful sound!”
One of her highest ranking officers ran over and yanked at the side of an old metal box that stubbornly wouldn’t open. Gar joined him and asked to help. With a quick nod, Gar jammed his stone fingers into the box and ripped off the surface. The man quickly pulled out cords and destroyed the interior. The alarm stopped yelling.
Prime Minister Shizue walked over to them, as she patted the side of her own head. “I’m sorry for that. We’re still clearing out the old tech from the former government. I thought the morphon detectors were inactive. Fortunately, we had already disarmed all their automated weapons.”
“What was that?” Torrik asked.
Shizue said, “You know, the old North Onnotangu government was so strict. They made morphonic powers illegal and executed anyone who had them. Well, anyone who wasn’t part of the regime’s private forces. I had to be very careful when using my own powers.”
Krystal said, “What turned the system back on?”
“I don’t know. A wireless technology controlled it. Some old version of wi-Fi that our former government installed for their use. I thought it was inactive now, but several things have reactivated recently.”
“How recently?” Krystal asked.
“About the time this… thing showed up.” She pointed at the sphere that hovered twenty feet off the ground in the middle of the square.
Gar said, “We are here to investigate this thing.”
Shizue asked, “Are my people in any danger?”
Gar answered, “We have been scanning these metal balls all over the world. They aren’t giving off any bad radiation or anything dangerous. We don’t know what’s inside. But Nova doesn’t think they are immediately dangerous.”
“But, what is it?” Shizue asked.
Krystal said, “We are here to help find out.”
“My best scientists have been scanning it and testing the surface. It would please me if BADGE shared the information they have scanned. We would be glad to share ours.”
Gar tapped his comm unit. “That should be fine. I will talk with the Director.”
“Come over here.” Shizue walked him over to her scientist.
Krystal and Torrik approached the metallic sphere. It was almost perfectly round. The metallic sphere had a grid of lines on its surface where the metal was attached. There were no rivets or any marks at all. The metal was shiny and clean. Their faces reflected at them, distorted by the curve of the surface.
“Well, there it is… a giant metal ball.” Krystal said.
Torrik said, “Mind if I try a spell?”
“Go for it.” She stepped back.
Torrik held up his hands, “Pichly Finchly Potsy Rex, Quidly Quadly, reveal any hex!” A golden light flashed from his hands. It continued for a few moments and then died down. “Interesting.”
“What did you find?” Krystal asked.
“There is no spell holding this aloft. No magic on the surface. But, your sense devices…”
“Sensor.”
“Whatever. Nova was right, I can’t see inside either. Only the outside was visible. However, if a spell was causing this to levitate, I would have seen it.”
Krystal walked around it, looking it over intently. “I can’t see any marks that indicate anything other than it being made of metal and floating.”
Torrik put his hand on the surface.
“DON’T DO THAT!” Krystal yelled, which caused several security people to jump.
Torrik laughed, “Don’t be so nervous. As a warrior and defender of Yohan, I am taught to put myself at risk before others. If this will hurt me, then that will tell us something.”
“Okay, but I still don’t think it’s wise.”
“Wise or not, this is doing nothing to hurt me. It is cold. Colder than I would expect, with it being such a sunny spring day.”
Krystal ventured to put her hand on it as well. It was ice cold. “Odd. But, not alarming.”
Torrik took his hand away and put his ear up to it. “I can’t hear anything. But, I guess that is to be expected. Whoever made this, made it so that it wouldn’t reveal any of its secrets.”
“Reveal. That’s a good idea.”
“What?” Torrik frowned.
“My turn with the magic.” She took a step back and held up her arms. Her body glowed with a purplish energy and lifted from the ground. That energy expanded out and bathed the area in a strange purple hue. Spectators in the distance gasped, and the security became more alert.
Everyone could see what appeared as tiny dots of glowing bright light around the area. The closer to the sphere, the more dense the dots were. In fact, these dots nearly hid the sphere.
“That isn’t good.” Krystal said.
Torrik asked, “what are we looking at?”
Krystal put her hands down and lowered to the ground at the same time. As she did, the purple cloud evaporated into the air. “My magic just revealed the morphons of the area that are arcane. They are condensing at this location. And, I suspect that all the other types of morphons are doing the same. The question is, why?”
“At least we have something important to report to Nova,” Torrik said.
Gar walked up. “We have something else as well.” He was holding a computer tablet from the Onnotangu authorities.
Krystal and Torrik watched a video from cameras at night in the square. A large flatbed truck drove into the square, stopped, and then continued on.
“What is that?” Torrik asked.
“That is a truck, it is…” Gar started explaining.
“I know what you strange wheeled vehicles are now. What is that truck doing?”
Prime Minister Shizue answered, “We don’t know. Our systems didn’t notice this as a problem, as it seemed to do nothing. But it stopped directly under where this sphere appeared and then moved on. Two days later, this thing shows up. It is too strange to not have a connection.
Krystal huffed, “As a journalist, I can tell you that this is irritating. We have evidence of… something. But everything raises more questions.” She looked at her comm, “But, I suppose new information is better than no information, even if it just adds confusion. We need to report this all to Nova at once.”
Shizue asked, “What should we do for now?”
Krystal let out a sigh. “BADGE just asked me to look. So, I can’t say. I am not Director Nova or any other official from BADGE to tell you exactly what we would want you to do. But, my best advice for now is to give this a wide berth until we have more information. Trust me, we will pass on the information to you the moment we know something. I will make sure of that.”
“Thank you.”
Gar said, “Okay, so, magic us back to the station.” He seemed a little giddy for the experience.
Torrik said, “Can’t. Don’t you recall? I put a powerful spell on your space station. It prevents magical or morphonic teleportation. I had to make sure that Lady Echidna didn’t pop in unexpectedly.”
Krystal was already summoning a shuttle with her comm. “Nova said to leave the spell for now, just in case another magical entity pays them an unwanted visit. We can portal away from the station, but not to it.”
The BADGE shuttle arrived quickly, and they were off toward the BADGE HQ in the heavens while the people of North Onnotangu hesitantly watched their new, unwanted visitor.
In a distant part of the Earth Solar System, a small wormhole opened and an ancient warship slipped out. The engines burned hot as it moved toward a tiny blue planet in the distance.
A nervous young man followed the robot escort from the guest quarters across the station into the teaching and development levels. The escort stopped at a door and pressed a code that allowed him into the room.
Arx and Chase sat at a desk with a chair on the other side. This was a modest room with metal walls. Screens displaying the logo for BADGE currently covered the wall on the right side of Arx. A file lay on the desk with his name on the top of it.
“David Millar?” Chase asked.
“Yeah, that’s me.” He said.
Arx gestured toward the chair. “Have a seat and don’t be so nervous. This is all good.”
David, a bulky man with a heavy, muscular build, sat in the cold metal chair. “So, what happens to me?”
Arx scoffed and shook his head. “Almost everyone who gets the assessment treats it like a prison sentencing. Look, you aren’t in trouble and this is to help you.”
“I’ve heard that BADGE will inject me with something to make me weaker, so I don’t use my powers wrong. Or they will throw me in prison…”
Chase rolled her eyes. “Neither are true. Now, let’s look.” She opened the folder. “You have a type -A strength enhanced power from the morphons. You can bench press six thousand pounds. No other current powers.”
“Yeah, I was working out one day and broke every piece of equipment in the gym. Man, was that owner pissed. I didn’t mean to…”
“We have your report,” Arx said.
Chase said, “Okay. So, you’re a prime candidate for the hero program. However, if you don’t want to be a superhero, you can join the ATLAS program and work with Arx helping protect the world from natural disasters. Both cases will include a six month mandatory stay here on the station to learn your powers and take other courses in international law, training in fighting techniques, and other extra programs you can sign up for. All paid for by the International Hero Initiative.”
David frowned. “I don’t know. I like that ATLAS program.”
Arx held up a pamphlet. “Here. Read all about it and I can show you some of the training area if you like. You like to work out in a gym, why not try out the ATLAS training area? That equipment is more your speed. I use it to. . . “
Nova stuck his head in. “How are the recruits… oh, excuse me. I didn’t know you had a session.”
David looked up, a little star struck at the now famous Director Nova. “Sir, it is an honor.”
“Nice to meet you, son. Hope you are having a good stay.”
“May I ask a question?”
Nova let out a slow sigh, “If it has nothing to do with the Lady Echidna situation, yes.”
“I was wondering, what happens if I decide I don’t want to take either path for the BADGE program?”
Nova looked at his two people. “They should have told you.”
“We were just getting to that,” Chase answered.
“Well, son, the third option is to leave and return to your regular life. The only thing that is required, by international law, is for you to have your morphonic powers suppressed by a special implant you will wear. It is small and unobtrusive. But you have to wear it at all times and BADGE will monitor it. This is as much for others’ safety as it is for your own. Morphon powers unchecked can be a serious danger, as you can imagine.”
“Thanks. Mr. Nova. I’ll have to think about all of this.”
“Take your time. I wouldn’t make a quick decision, morphon powers can be a positive way of life that…”
“NOVA, NOVA, NOVA!” EB ran into him from behind, which caused Nova to nearly fall into the room.
With a twitching eye and a weak smile, Nova said, “Please excuse me. BADGE business.”
Nova looked at the bouncing bunny. “I thought you were entertaining our guests in the lounge on Deck Seven.”
EB said, “I was. They’re all at lunch now. I set out blankets in the arboretum for a nice picnic. You know, this whole assessment process can be stressful and a little time around trees, flowers, grass is so relaxing. I used to spend a month in the Smoky Mountains after Easter, just to get some good fresh air. The holidays are a big stress for us holiday heroes. This one Easter, I was…”
“Get to the point!”
“Oh, uh, sorry. What did I… OH! A shuttle with Gar, Krystal, and Torrik is almost here. Gar said they have some good info for us.”
“I know. They sent information to the computers from the ground.”
“Yeah, but they’re here now. So, I suppose they have more.”
Nova grumbled as he left the energetic bunny behind. “I’ll meet them Operations. You know, meeting new recruits is a part of the job I like. Seeing hopeful, fresh faces is a pleasant change and gives me a lot of hope. But, no, I have a bunny that interrupts me and I am…” He muttered his way through the station.
Nova left the lift and walked down the steps to the center of Operations. “Report!”
EB hopped up and said, “They’re almost here!”
“What the!” Nova jumped and looked around, “EB, how did you… oh why do I even ask?”
“What is that?” EB looked at the floor.
A small plant grew up from the ground and made a giant mass of vines for a moment, then shriveled away, revealing Gar, Krystal, and Torrik.
Torrik was saying, “I told you, there is a way to use nature magic to teleport. It was just from the docking bay to here, but it can be much further.”
“Fascinating,” Krystal said. “I’d love to study some of the magics in Yohan.”
“There are a lot of them.”
Nova cleared his throat. “Are we done with magical demonstrations?”
“Oh, sorry.” Krystal replied. “We checked out that sphere over the North Onnotangu. Sorry to say, I can’t give you much information. It seems to be nothing more than a giant floating ball of metal. However, there was something extremely odd about it.”
Nova asked, “What?”
“You asked me to investigate the morphons in the area. I can illuminate the magical morphons pretty easily, which I did. They’re massing on that sphere in an unusually high concentration. And I suspect that all forms of morphons are doing this.”
Torrik said, “Also, those magic morphons aren’t part of a spell or power. I cast a detection charm and found nothing magical about the sphere itself or the surrounding area.”
Nova huffed, “This is damn peculiar. What in the hell are these things?” He looked up at their screens with all the sensor information. “Do you think these spheres are producing these morphons?”
“I don’t think so,” Krystal said. “It looked as though the morphons were gathering toward them, not flowing from them. But I can’t be positive.”
Gar piped in, “At least they don’t seem to cause any harm or danger.”
Nova let out a little smile. “Yes, I suppose that is one way to look at it. But I’m not convinced this isn’t the beginning of some kind of plot or scheme.”
EB said, “The mind is a funny thing. When you know something, you aren’t afraid of it. But, when you know nothing about it, it suddenly becomes suspicious. Not knowing the who, what, when, where, and why, leads us all to think they’re dangerous and a terrible plot. But, like a hidden Easter Egg, just because you don’t know what’s in it when you pick it up, doesn’t mean it won’t be a sweet surprise.”
Everyone looked at EB with great shock.
“What?” He took a step back.
Nova said, “It’s just funny to hear a mature thought from you.”
“I have my moments.”
A blue flash of light filled the room and Strange Quark appeared with a large mug of ale in his hand, which he drank through a curly, silly straw.
“I thought teleportation couldn’t get through your spell?” Gar asked.
“I just got off a shuttle,” Quark said.
Nova asked, “What did you need?”
Quark finished slurping and said, “I have news for you on those metal spheres.”
Nova said, “I like the initiative. I didn’t even ask you to investigate them.”
“I’d like to take a bow, but I wasn’t investigating them. I was checking out this new pub in Mexico City. There was a news alert and thought you might want to see it. It seems the sphere’s creator is about to make an announcement to the world.”
Nova pointed to a robot. “Patch us through all the major international news sources now!”
Nova waited while the large view screens populated with videos from around the world. Gar, Krystal, and Torrik stood behind him with EB hopping up and down excitedly. News services around the globe were all chattering in their various languages, all talking about the odd spheres appearing over their major cities.
“So, what do you think? Alien invasion, large bombs, or a publicity stunt?” EB asked.
Nova answered, “I have no idea.”
“Oh, come on, friendly bet. I bet you a bunch of chocolate eggs that this is some kind of publicity stunt. Like a movie is about to be released and they want everyone talking about it. Oh, Oh, Oh, I know, it’s a sports thingy. You know, balls. Hey, what if it’s women’s volleyball? Now, that’d be worth some international attention. Those babes, running around hot sands in tiny bikinis...best. Sport. Ever.”
“You’re disgusting,” Krystal retorted.
“Hey, I enjoy the finer things in life, and a hot babe is one fine thing.”
“Ugh!”
Torrik was laughing.
Nova wasn’t paying this much attention.
The central window became active as the woman at the desk for the International News Network spoke.
“This is Liz Alcord with INN. We have a breaking story. An announcement is about to be made from the creator of the spheres that are currently causing a world-wide panic. We go live to the RTC Global Headquarters…” The video shifted to a meeting room in a large corporate building.
EB whispered, “RTC Global, aren’t they the ones who make Ren Phones?”
Nova’s glare turned decidedly annoyed. “Yes, they are.”
A voice spoke over the screen, “This is RTC Global.” The video shifted quickly to a pre-made promo-ad. Magnificent vistas of mountains, deserts, forests, and the ocean gave gorgeous views of the Earth while a bold, but beautiful woman’s voice spoke.
“In the year 1998, Global Cell and Internet was founded by Bob Willingsby. In 2010, GCI merged with International Wireless and became WiCel Incorporated. By the year 2019, the company gained a new identity as Renaissance Cell Tech Global, becoming the largest and most recognized technology industry in the world. This year, one man stepped up to the position as CEO, a man who has driven the vision of this company to a place none of the founders ever imagined possible.” At this point, a sleek, smiling man with glowing white teeth, brown hair, and a sharp suit appeared with the sprawling natural scenes behind him. Adam Chorad, a visionary in his field and the man who holds the record for the highest wealth ever amassed. His changes to Ren Tech have given us the well-earned place as the most popular cell phone, tablet, and computer company in the world. Dr. Chorad continues to push boundaries forward with his vision of a future that will bring us all into a world that never imagined possible. We present, Dr. Adam Chorad…”
The view changed back to the conference room as cameras flashed and a sharp-looking man walked up to a podium.
“Thank you, thank you. Oh, don’t you just hate those promotional videos? Hahaha. Makes me out to be a legend. Hello, I am Dr. Adam Chorad, CEO of Renaissance Tech, as you just saw. I’m afraid that we unintentionally caused quite a stir across the planet over the past few days. I first want to extend my sincerest apologies. Yes, the finest scientists here at Ren Tech create the metallic spheres that have everyone so worried.”
He gestured to his side, and an image of one of those spheres appeared.
“You see, here at Renaissance Technologies we have a dream, bring the world out of the dark ages. My predecessor changed the name of this company to Renaissance because she believed that we always find ourselves mired in the past and start new, little, dark ages. It is the responsibility of companies like ours to push the new and remove the old. And that is what we are doing today. These spheres are special, new technologies that are self-powered, and might I add environmentally friendly, will provide both strong cell service and free wireless internet to all the world.” There were people in the audience who shouted up some questions, but he simply held out his hands to silence them. “I know the very first concern about that. Won’t this put a lot of businesses out of work? Yes, but only because they are not keeping up. We have no reason to destroy our competition. We are the largest and can handle competition. However, we also must keep moving things forward or risk letting the world fall into another dark age. Questions so far?”
A reported asked, “What sort of power source do these devices use? Solar?”
“No, solar power is good and efficient, but not efficient enough for our purposes. My scientists here at Ren Tech developed something spectacular. A new battery system that can self-charge. It is not ready for smaller tech, like tablets or phones, but it worked perfectly for the spheres. It harnesses the morphons from the atmosphere and turns that into pure energy. No emissions, no harm to the environment, and as far as we can tell, a limitless power resource.”
A woman asked, “What about the cost? How can you provide free services like this? What will your investors say?”
“Good question. Thank you for asking. As of one month ago, I am the sole owner of Ren Tech, having purchased seventy-three percent of the voting stock. That is how much I believe in this company. Also, that means I have the final say on all matters. I am, personally, worth more than one trillion dollars and this company is the first to reach 10 trillion in one fiscal year. Free Wi-Fi will hardly cause any strain on our bottom line. I believe we should stick to our mission statement and help bring progress to this world. That means thinking outside of revenue numbers. Thank you.” He waved and walked away from the stage, even though more questions were being asked.
Before the news analysts started debating opinions, Nova made a slashing motion across his throat and cut the sound.
“That is so cool. I mean, how nice of them. It’s always neat when big companies think of the little people,” EB said.
Krystal shrugged. “So, it was just a mistake. Nothing to worry about.”
Torrik said, “I don’t know. Something doesn’t feel right about all this.”
Nova turned and said, “I agree. I don’t like this.”
Gar asked, “What don’t you like about it?”
“First, BADGE scientists, who are some of the best in this world, have worked for years on ways to harness the power of the morphons. Outside of the interaction between certain people, morphons seem to be inert.”
EB said, “They cause those crystal things to grow.”
“True,” Nova said, “However, the fact remains that after all these years, the best minds I know have never found a way of harnessing the morphons for anything like this. Yet, scientist working for a cell phone company just happen to make that breakthrough in a few months.”
Krystal added, “Not only that, they find a way to turn it into power and build a power system to operate with them.”
“You see where I’m going.”
Krystal nodded. “We need to investigate this new tech and find out exactly what they are doing.”
Torrik asked, “What are you looking for?”
“Alien tech that is being misused, if this is a lie, or if this is true and they did exactly what they claim. We need to know the complete story. Morphons are on the increase for no reason and at the same time we have a company who miraculously comes up with tech to harvest them for power generation. Suspiciously coincidental.”
Gar asked, “What do you need us to do?”
Nova said, “Torrik, you go with Gar and Arx and keep working with the Restoration and Assistance program.”
“If this is a dangerous situation, don’t you need us on duty?” Torrik asked.
“This isn’t dangerous, just confusing. If it becomes dangerous, we will alert you. I still want BADGE out there, helping people and showing the world we are not just an army fighting bad guys.”
“Understood.”
“EB, you will work with Agent Justin and monitor things up here. Get the station and BADGE ready, in case this turns out to be something dangerous.”
EB hopped up and struck serious poses with each bounce. “I’m on it. EB and Justin, the eyes on the sky, the commanders in charge of the army, always vigilant. We will keep things running and the moment the world needs us, we are there!”
Nova stopped him mid-hop by grabbing his ears. “Enough. Find Agent Justin and get him up here.”
“Sure thing, bud. But what are you going to do?”
Nova dropped EB, “Krystal Fae and I are going to pay Ren Tech a visit.”
David sat at a table in the Mess looking over the pamphlet about ATLAS. Another pamphlet, which he had just finished, spelled out the information about the classes he would be required to take here on the station. He had already tried out their gym, which was suited to his new super strength. A giant four-armed red man operated the gym and offered some helpful instruction about working out with a super physique.
Chase walked over to his table. “Still thinking about your choices?”
David nodded. “Yeah, it’s a lot to take in.”
She sat down. “We understand. It isn’t a simple choice. Choosing either ATLAS or League will change your life.”
“I don’t have much of a family, but I have friends and a job back home.”
“And we take that into consideration. Working for ATLAS is an on-call situation. You will have weekends of training to keep you in shape for the various tasks you might have to take on. But only when an emergency arises will you be called to duty. Working as a hero is far more of a career. You can go solo, which is called a Ranger position. But you’ll still report to BADGE and to your local government. If you join a League, then you will work with them as a job. BADGE will send assignments to your league for local and possibly international problems. Your league will also work with the local governments to help in situations.”
David sat back and put his hands on his face. “I know. It sounds cool. I mean, being a genuine hero seems so… glamorous. But, up here, with you people, I see it from this side. It is work, it is a sacrifice of your life, and I don’t know if I have that in me.”
Chase said, “I know. Fame isn’t want it’s cracked up to be. Heroes get all the glory and are on the news for their triumphs. But, the news doesn’t show the hard work that goes into training and working, it doesn’t show the bloody noses and sleepless nights.”
David asked, “Would it be okay if I tried some of the training? Go through a class or two, test the waters.”
“Sure. Nova encourages new recruits to take their time and sample everything before deciding. BADGE knows what this can mean. I can set you up for a few training sessions in the simulator. You can work with a league that has booked the simulator for a battle challenge.”
“That sounds interesting.”
“And safe. You’ll experience a hard battle, but you won’t face the threat of death. The simulator has failsafe systems to protect the heroes from true serious harm. But you’ll get a good taste of an actual fight, get to work with experienced heroes, and learn something about yourself.”
“Sounds like a plan.”
Agent Justin walked over at that moment. “Chase, I need you to get the under grads ready for deployment.”
“Is something happening?” She slowly stood up.
“Nothing has happened. But Nova is concerned about the situation with the spheres. So, I’m activating all people on the station. Besides, getting the trainees to do some duty time will be a good experience.”
“I’ll talk to Red Fury. He’ll get them in place.’’
“Thanks.” Justin walked away.
David asked, “Are we in danger?”
“I doubt it. It isn’t uncommon to go to an alert status when there is the potential for danger. Often it passes by and nothing happens. Don’t worry, as soon as there is any real action, we will ensure that all recruits are placed in a safe location. If necessary, we can move you down to the planet. For now, be ready for a message from Red Fury about when you will be in the simulator with a visiting league. Put those muscles to work and see what you can do in an actual fight.” She gave him a friendly punch in the muscular arm and then walked away.
David looked down at the information again, a little more concerned than before. The longer he was up here, the more real all this became.
“Why bring me along?” Krystal asked while Nova piloted the smaller shuttle through the atmosphere.
“For several reasons. I like to travel with at least one hero. It’s procedure and makes sense. You have a keen eye and mind for detail, which makes you an excellent journalist. When I talk to Dr. Chorad, I hope you use some of that keen journalist insight. Also, you’re one of the few heroes who can actually see morphons.”
“Just the arcane part of the spectrum. There are many others I can’t see.”
“That will be sufficient.”
They flew fast over the land and passed several tall mountain chains. The ground was green, and the skies were vividly blue right now. Orchards were in full bloom outside a sprawling metropolis.
“Seattle, home of coffee, hipsters, and Ren Tech,” Nova muttered.
“Sounds like you aren’t too keen on this company.”
Nova altered their direction slightly. “Like so many companies before them, they’re a fad. Richer than god and popular among many generations, these companies strike a big noise and act like they own the world. Big egos with self-righteous intentions. But, in a short matter of time, someone else rises above them and they fade. Their trendiness falls on its face and their ego is not enough to cushion the blow.”
“Wow, that was almost poetic, if not a little cynical.”
“Truth is often cynical.”
Krystal smiled. “But, tell me this, oh cynical one, how many of those trendy companies turned out to be evil or did wicked things?”
Nova guided them past the Space Needle as he pondered this. “Okay, you got me. They aren’t all good and sweet, but normally they stay within the law and none have turned out to be truly villainous.”
“Then let’s not walk into this meeting with you being a grump. They have done nothing wrong, but accidentally scared the world.”
“If you believe it was just an accident.”
Krystal sat back with a robust laugh. “And, still cynical.”
“Nothing wrong with logic. It was a fantastic publicity stunt. Everyone is talking about it and the social medias are all buzzing. It’s gone completely infected.”
Krystal frowned. “Social Medias? ...infected? You mean Social Media...no s....and viral?”
“Whatever.”
They approached a complex of buildings that seemed to bear the signature of Picasso’s design. All the buildings were square, but they stacked the squares against each other in odd ways. Windows on the side revealed that the floors were flat, and only the facade was twisted. A giant sign on the top read, “Renaissance Communication Technologies.”
“Nice building, if you don’t mind a modern look.” Krystal said, “Say, why didn’t we just portal down? I could have zapped us here in a second.”
“We’re paying them a friendly visit...” Krystal coughed at that, but Nova ignored it and went on, “I don’t want to alarm them by just showing up. People appearing out of thin air might worry some. When we land, we will decloak and then let them know we are...”
For a moment, a flash of light surrounded them and the computer announced, “Cloaking system interrupted. Visibility has been restored.”
“How?” Nova asked.
The computer answered, “A counter field surrounds the landing zone. It deactivated the cloaking system. Would you like a full report?”
“Send it to the station.”
“Sending.”
Krystal said, “Wow, they have the tech to counter our cloak. I didn’t think anyone could do that.”
Nova maneuvered the shuttle to a landing pad meant for helicopters. “These kids are smart. I’m impressed, and slightly annoyed.”
With the shuttle at a full stop, Nova and Krystal disembarked and walked toward a pair of people waiting for them. The giant Ren Tech company loomed in the distance.
Krystal leaned over and said, “You will never find a greater hive of....coffee and hipsters. We must be cautious.”
“Oh, be quiet and pay attention.”
A man and woman in expensive apparel met them, both with glowing Ren Watches on their wrists and nametags on their shirts.
“Welcome to Ren Tech, Director Nova. It is an honor to have you pay us a visit. I’m Arnold and this is Stacy.” The young man said.
“Thank you.” Nova was holding onto his surly attitude. “This is…”
“Krystal Fae, with the Sentinel.”
“Very nice to meet both of you.” Stacy tapped her smartwatch and said, “We have a nice tour of our headquarters arranged, if you will follow me.”
“No, thank you. We need to meet with Dr. Chorad now.”
“Right this way.” They both gave a gallant hand swing toward the building.
David walked out of the simulator, drenched in sweat. DaMoN joined him as they headed toward the locker rooms.
“Wow, that was exciting.” David brimmed with energy as he came down from the thrill of a simulated battle with Fenrir.
DaMoN laughed and slapped him on the back, “The real battle was a hell of a lot harder, but even more fun.”
“Really? How much harder?”
“Oh, you know how it is in the real world. These simulations can’t risk your life, so they pull some punches here and there. When something that big is hell-bent on killing you, the battle is something else. So, which league are you?”
“I’m not in a league. I’m not technically part of BADGE yet.”
“Oh, another recruit. Been a lot of those lately. You put in a good fight. You deserve to be a hero.”
David said, “After that fight, I’m really considering it. Wow, that was fun.”
“Don’t let the excitement of victory go to your head. The simulator is great training, but the real world is something else. Cool off, get yourself a shower, and think.”
David was about to say that he had already thought he would cool off before signing anything. However, just then, the entire station rattled. “What was that?” David asked.
DaMoN frowned. “I don’t know. It takes something big to rattle this place.”
Red lights flashed and a robotic voice called out, “Emergency alert, heroes to station one, repeat, heroes to station one. Cadets and agents report to station two. Recruits, report to security check-in.” A siren blared loudly, and the recording started again.
DaMoN said, “Head for the theater room, Coach Fury will be there to tell you what to do.” Without another word, he raced off for the main level.
David’s jubilant attitude shattered and worry set in. The real world was coming for them now, and he wasn’t sure what to do. He lost all sense of location and forgot how to get back to the theater room. So, he just ran down a corridor, hoping he would recall this place soon.
He turned a corner and followed a corridor that had an extensive set of windows to space. He paused mid-step and slowly turned to see what was outside.
A giant space cruiser drifted by. It was nothing like anything David had ever seen. It was long, bulky, and had weapons dotted all over the surface. However, it was rusty; the hull was cracked in many places, and as it moved, it dribbled bits of debris as though it were disintegrating from old age.
“What the hell is that?”
Justin barked orders out, “I want all security drones in space now. Set the station’s shields to full power. Sensors, get me every scrap of data on that.”
The robots manning the stations worked with speed, fulfilling each order efficiently.
10915 stated, “The power systems on the unidentified vessel are at a minimal status. No weapon systems online that we can detect.”
“Lifesigns?”
“Negative. Sensors are not detecting any known form of a living organism on that vessel.”
On the screen, ten small egg-shaped drones zipped out from the station. They had small weapons for combat.
14001-A spoke, “Query: Signal for heroes to leave station and confront?”
“No. Not at this time. We don’t know what that is and I don’t want to cause any problems by being foolish. Just tell everyone inside the station to be on full alert. Where’s EB?”
10915 said, “EB is currently en route to...”
The elevator doors opened and EB burst out at top speed. “Sorry, I was just in the training area, working with the new recruits. Several have already signed to join BADGE and one is asking to train with ATLAS. Nice people. This one lady is like eighty, but she can use telekinesis like a pro. I mean... oh, what are all the sirens for?”
Justin said, while pointing at the monitor, “That.”
EB screamed and backed up, “No, no, it can’t be!”
“You know what that is?”
EB trembled and nodded quickly. “A fleet of those destroyed my homeworld seven centuries ago. Blow it up, blow it up now!”
“What do you mean... wait?” Justin had an icy feeling run through his body. “Legion destroyed your world.”
“Yes.”
Justin pointed at a robot. “Full alert status. Activate all Leagues. Send a call to all Rangers. Get me Nova, now!”
The warning sirens across the station changed to something that only sounded when the situation was dire.
An hour before:
Krystal and Nova followed the perky representatives of Ren Tech through the halls of the sleek, modern company complex. Workers walked around in jeans and company T-shirts as they talked on Ren Phones or used Ren Tech Tablets.
The interior of the building was not unlike the exterior. Sleek white walls with clear glass ceilings/floors so you could see all the way up through the building. Holo-screens on the walls displayed information.
They paused at the door to a room filled with people using strange glasses. Stacy said, “This is our next biggest thing. Ren Wear. High-tech glasses that can display images like VR to the person wearing them. Just imagine being able to join a meeting across the planet as though you are there at a moment’s notice. Or, using just one lens, you can check the news, look at a recipe, or even relax by the beach.”
Krystal asked, “How far along is the research?”
Arnold said, “We hope to have them available by summer this year. Should be the biggest event of the season. That is, if we can work out a few of the bugs.”
“Oh, I want one,” Krystal said.
Nova cleared his throat, “Fascinating, really, but we have important business to discuss with Mr. Chorad.”
“This way.” Stacy guided him along.
They navigated the unconventional building, passing many amazing new things, as they approached the heart of this sprawling complex. Their guides led them through glass doors and out into a beautiful garden. The garden brimmed with blooming roses and tiger lilies. A river ringed the outside of the area while a grassy lawn sat in the center with a diamond shaped structure seated in the middle.
“What is this?” Krystal asked.
Arnold said, “Dr. Chorad’s office.”
“A little ostentatious,” Nova muttered.
An unfamiliar voice said, “Yes, it is pretentious. But why not splurge when you’re the richest man of the richest company in the world?”
Krystal and Nova turned to find Dr. Chorad standing behind them, a big smile on his face.
Nova said, “I suppose. We have important business to discuss.”
Dr. Chorad said, “Yes, I know. I was in a meeting with investors, explaining the whole sphere situation. Ugh, what a bunch of money-grubbing idiots. They don’t know the first thing about generosity. I was glad when my intern alerted me you were intent on a meeting now. Got me out of there. So, why don’t we head into my office and... oh, Arnold, could you bring us some lunch? I’m starving.”
“Right away, sir. What would you two like?” Arnold asked.
Nova said, “We don’t need anything.”
“Speak for yourself. I could use a bite to eat,” Krystal said. “I’d love some Greek food.”
“Right away.” Arnold and Stacy left in a hurry.
“Come on in. My office is my home. So, let’s get cozy.” Dr. Chorad walked them toward the lone building.
“He’s nice, and kinda handsome.” Krystal said.
“Stay focused. We have a mission.”
“I know, I know. Big rich company equals bad.”
“I didn’t say that.”
“Not with words, but your face is speaking volumes.”
Dr. Chorad’s office was as white and clean as the rest of this complex. It was more of a living room than an office, with a sunk-in central floor, kitchen, wet-bar, a fireplace, large television, couches, plants, and a desk set against a long set of windows that had a glorious view of the beautiful garden outside.
“Wow,” Krystal said upon first seeing this enormous space.
Dr. Chorad said, “Everyone has that same response. I entertained the Emperor of Japan last week and even he said that. Have a seat. The couches are amazingly comfy.” He walked over to the wet-bar and started pulling out bottles. “Care for a mixed drink? I make a mean martini.”
Nova stood near the couches and said, “I’m not here for a social call. This is an important matter. Dr. Chorad...”
“Call me Adam.”
Nova cleared his throat, “Adam, we need to have a serious discussion.”
“Yes, I know. You’re worried about my technology.”
Both Krystal and Nova were a little stunned by this. Krystal asked, “How’d you know?”
“Simple. Ren Tech is a telecommunications company in the market to sell trendy gadgets to customers across the world. Not something BADGE would have any need to worry about. However, my new sphere technology probably raised a few alarms, which brought you to my doorstep. Am I right?” He said this while mixing martinis and pouring them.
Nova said, “Mostly. We have some unique concerns regarding the tech as well.”
“I’m sure. Trust me, my people alerted me right away when heroes started inspecting the spheres and entire cities declared emergencies.” He walked over and set a tray of glasses down on the coffee table and then sank into the overstuffed couch. “Look, the truth is, I’m seriously upset about the whole situation. Probably more than you.”
“I doubt it.” Nova finally sat down across from Adam on the circular couch.
“Rest assured, the situation was not arranged for publicity. I know that’s what you’re thinking. I had this whole news conference prepared with fanfare and lots of free stuff. We were going to head to New York, set up a stage in Central Park, and make a big show of revealing the spheres to the world all at the same time. I even had this comically large button to press. This is my gift to this world, not some stunt to increase our stock value.”
Nova mulled that over for a moment in one of his famous long pauses. Finally, he said, “I believe you.”
“Oh, good. I was hoping you would. I really did not intend to scare the world. These spheres represent a passion of mine.”
“And what would that be?” Nova asked.
“I believe education is key to raising communities out of poverty. However, that is hard in the places were services like the internet and phone lines are too expensive, or completely impossible. These spheres will extend our tech all over the world in a wide net that will connect everyone. People can share knowledge freely, without worrying about costs. I’m even offering grants to nations to help them supply tech to the underprivileged sectors.”
“How magnanimous.” Krystal picked up a martini from the tray, her tone betraying a little skepticism.
Adam laughed, “Fine, the grants are a giant tax write-off. But that’s to be expected. I may be generous, but not foolish. However, you understand I didn’t mean to cause any alarm. My teams are still investigating why the decloaking activated prematurely. They also started connecting to wireless sources early as well, which caused even more trouble in places.”
Krystal said, “That explains why the archaic wireless tech in North Onnotangu activated.”
“Yes, I heard about that. I hope no one was hurt.”
She shook her head. “Nope. They had already removed the weapons from the systems. Just loud sirens.”
“Glad to hear it.”
Nova said, “There is one other issue I’m here to discuss.”
“Shoot. Oh, if you want to incorporate Ren Tech into BADGE comm systems, that is something we would love to work with you on.”
“No, this isn’t about that. Morphons power your spheres.”
Adam smiled sheepishly. “It is one feature that makes them so efficient. They can run continuously, no need for recharging.”
Krystal said, “How did you figure that tech out? BADGE scientists have been working on studying morphons for years now and we have nothing that can use them as a power source.”
“That, my dear, is a company secret. As you can imagine, such technology would cause quite a stir in competitors who would love to have access to it.”
Nova said, “I want to know how it works?”
“Ah, no. That is a secret that Ren Tech owns.”
“Morphon studies and tech are under the scope of BADGE...”
Adam said, “Actually, that isn’t quite true. Trust me, I had my legal team comb all the laws pertaining to morphons, both national and international laws. You see, BADGE may keep tabs on people who have morphonic powers, and BADGE has the right to information regarding morphons effects on humans and the environment. However, BADGE has no legal authority to obtain information about morphons as used in technology, as long as that technology poses no threat to the planet or the people on it. I can have our lawyers come and explain this in their legalese. It’s boring, but they get the point across clearly.”
Nova kept his calm, but his irritation was evident. “Look here, Dr. Chorad, morphons aren’t something to toy around with. This isn’t like solar or wind power. These particles are still a relatively unknown substance that we are just beginning to study. Using them as a power source could prove dangerous.”
“And, my scientist disagree.”
Krystal interjected, “They also applied atomic energy before fully understanding it. Many people suffered and died because they didn’t know the true depth of how dangerous the radiation really was.”
Adam held up his hands. “Please, let’s be friends about this. I mean no harm and we have done extensive tests on this technology. This wasn’t just thrown out there without some kind of thought put into it. If it will make you feel better, I will ask our scientists to send all the data on our tests regarding the impact of the technology on people and the environment. You can have your people look it over. If you find any problems, I mean any at all, let me know and we will work with you to solve them. If you find there is a legit danger posed to anyone or anything, I will shut them down immediately.”
Nova said, “Fine. That is a start. Just get me that promise in writing, signed. One flaw, one inkling of a problem, and I will have you shut them down.”
“We agree, then.” The doors of his office opened. “Oh, look, lunch is here. Great, I’m hungry.”
Arnold walked in with a tray that had several boxes on it. “Let’s see, your regular lunch, Doctor. Nothing for Director Nova, and a Greek lunch for Krystal Fae.” He handed her a box while saying, “Big fan, by the way. I read your articles all the time.”
“Oh, thanks. That’s why I write them.”
Nova had a scowl on his face as he watched Krystal sink down into a part of this huge couch and open up the box of lunch. This wasn’t supposed to be a social meeting, but Adam turned it into one. So, Nova asked a question he didn’t expect an answer to. “I’m curious about something else.”
“What’s that?”
“These spheres defy all attempts at scanning. None of our tech and even our BADGE heroes with unique powers cannot penetrate the surface with any form of sensor or scan. How did you manage that?”
“That’s another company secret. But, I can tell you why we keep it detection-proof. The stuff inside those spheres is some of the most advanced tech ever conceived. It revolutionizes a lot about telecommunications technology. My competitors would give anything to learn their secrets. I may be generous, but not foolish. Ren Tech is the hottest name in popular technology today, with the newest, most advanced stuff available… and I mean, to keep that standing for a long time.”
Nova wasn’t happy with that answer, but he accepted it. Before he could ask another, his comm activated. “Excuse me.” He stepped away to take this. “This is Nova.”
Justin came through, “Sir, we have an emergency. An ancient Legion Warship just entered Earth Space and is near the station right now.”
“We’ll be right there.” Nova clicked his comm off. “Krystal, we have to go now.”
“Something wrong?”
“Yes.” He looked over at Adam. “Thank you for your time. We will be in touch.”
“Anything I can do to help?”
“No. Just make sure BADGE gets that information you have.” He nodded to Krystal.
She packed up her boxed lunch and then stood up. “Let’s move.” She snapped her fingers and both she and Nova zapped back to their shuttle.
Nova pushed the BADGE shuttle to its limit. The engines rattled, and the interior grew hotter under the strain of taxing the power systems. A buzzer beeped loudly for a moment, but was stopped when Nova slapped the button. This was the sixth time he has had to shut down that warning.
Krystal cleared her throat. “Sir, I know you want to get back, but blowing us up will not make this any faster.”
“We have to get back there now. If I had not asked you and Torrik to cut off teleportation to the station, this wouldn’t be necessary.”
The windows grew bright orange as they blazed through the atmosphere.
“Do you think this is really Legion?”
Nova said, “I don’t know. But, I have been worried about this for some time. The rise in Morphon’s in the atmosphere makes little sense, except that is exactly how Legion seeds a world before they attack.”
“But Legion fell years ago. We took it down. We killed the last of Legion’s most powerful during that war. There is no one left to resurrect it.”
“Legion is like a virus. Even the smallest part of it can grow quickly. How it returned so fast, I don’t know. But I’ll not have them invade again.” The warning beeped loudly again. “Damn!” Nova slapped the button, but this time, it didn’t shut off.
“Emergency shut-off activated.” The computer announced, and all the power systems went dark. The engines stopped pushing them. Inertial force in space kept them moving forward toward the station.
“Oh, crud.” Krystal said.
“This isn’t good. I’ve lost all control.”
“Don’t worry, I can still help with this.” Krystal put her hands together and then spread them apart. A purplish glow surrounded the shuttle, and she was now controlling its direction. “I’ll let the inertial force keep us going, but I’ll direct our path.”
They zoomed toward the station, the shuttle silent now. The heat inside the cabin softened as the power systems cooled off so they wouldn’t ignite. Suddenly, a great shadow crossed their path as something enormous blocked the sunlight.
The rusty hulk of the Legion battleship drifted by. Its decaying exterior shedding bits of debris as it slowly moved through space. Flashes of sparks buzzed here and there as systems failed to work properly.
“What on earth is that?” Krystal asked.
“That is a Class 1 Legion Battle cruiser.”
“I’ve never seen anything like that before. The cruisers they came in to attack earth looked nothing like that.”
Nova watched it with irritated terror in his eyes, saying, “They used that ship around a thousand earth years ago. I doubt they had any in service when they invaded Earth.”
“But that makes little sense. Why would Legion be using an ancient, outdated piece of junk?”
Nova said, “I don’t know. But it’s part of Legion and that is all I need to know. Keep your eyes forward. We’re getting close to the shuttle bay.” He pressed his comm on his wrist. “This is Nova. Krystal is guiding the shuttle into bay four. Have a tractor beam ready for an unpowered landing.”
Justin answered, “Understood.”
Nova and Krystal walked through the station toward the command level lift. A four-armed man with red skin interrupted their run toward the lifts.
“I don’t have time, Red.” Nova said.
Red Fury said, “Sorry, but there is a situation.”
“I know.”
“I mean,” Red Fury said, “We have a large group of recruits here right now. I don’t have room in the safe area for this number and getting them on a shuttle is not possible with that ship out there.”
“Krystal,” Nova turned to her, “Go with Red and help send as many back to Earth as you can. If they want to just go down and wait this out before returning, send them to the BADGE facility in London. I’ll alert Benjamin they will join him.”
“Yes, sir.” She left with Red Fury for the back of the station.
Nova got into the lift. Moments later, he was stepping out into the Operations center of the station. Before he could even ask for a report, something slammed into him, sobbing and holding him like a scared child.
“They’re back!!! Why! Why are they back?” EB bawled like a child.
Justin said, “I haven’t been able to calm him down.”
Nova let out a controlled sigh and calmly said, “This may not be a Legion invasion. That’s a really old ship. We don’t know enough yet to make any conclusions.”
“They... they... they’re gonna destroy my favorite planet.” A big, wet sniff later, he continued, “They destroyed my first favorite planet and now Earth. WHY!”
Nova peeled the bunny off of him and held him up by his ears. “Calm down!”
EB sobbed less loudly. “Thanks. I needed a good Nova scream.”
“Ugh!” He dropped EB and made his way down to Justin. “Report?”
“I have all of our investigative drones out there scanning every inch of the exterior of that ship. All the station’s sensors are trying to read the inside. We have sent out hailing messages asking them to respond. So far, we know only that this ship is ancient. Its weapon systems seem to be offline, the power systems are at bare minimum, and nothing on board is alive.”
Nova said, “They don’t have to be a living being to be a threat.”
“What?”
Nova walked around and looked up at the screen. Memories of ancient times, wars fought against these very ships, only in far better shape. “That is an early testing ship. A small fleet of them would arrive at a prepared world and do the initial test against the people. Battle drones would attack. If the drones could defeat the warriors of that world, then the ship would simply drop several tons of sub-nuclear bombs, destroy the world from space, and return to the Legion HQ. If the warriors defeated the robots, then Legion would show up to challenge them more officially.”
Justin said, “They didn’t do that to Earth? Legion showed up and attacked. No testing period.”
EB said, “That would be our fault.”
“What?” Justin turned and looked at EB.
“Well, we tried to hide among your people, to disguise ourselves so Legion would never find us again. We would train your people and help them be ready for Legion. And, I might add that we did a damn fine job since your people were ready. However, our presence didn’t go entirely unnoticed. They could sense our power. That encouraged them to bypass this phase and simply attack. It was kinda like when that one farmer discovered me hiding eggs. He just started picking them up instead of waiting for Easter Morning. I mean, serious... um... sorry.”
Justin asked, “Do you think they’re sending another force to test us? I thought we had finally defeated Legion once and for all.”
Nova said, “I don’t know. Something about this seems... off. Legion didn’t split its forces. It was an all-in situation. They would fight to the death, theirs or their enemies. This doesn’t seem like a precursor to invasion.”
EB said, “Then, what do you think this is?”
“I hope it is just an ancient ship that is lost. Robot 10445, send a communication signal to that ship. Use a focused trifector beam.”
“What is that?” Justin asked.
“It is a type of particle beam that the old Legion ships used. If that doesn’t get their attention, then there isn’t anything alive over there, organic or mechanical.”
“Signal sent.” 10445 announced.
There was a moment of complete silence in the room as all three waiting hoping nothing would answer.
“Signal incoming.” 10445 announced.
“Aw sh...” EB started to speak when all the monitors lit up.
A fuzzy image of a robot stood before them. “Planet below, we are Legion. Prove your worth or face destruction. Send us your strongest. We... we... weweweeee....” Its voice buzzed and scratched. The screen went blank for a moment.
“See... I told you we are in deep crap.” EB was now hugging Nova’s leg. He said, “Come on, go all angle and kick their asses.”
“EB, not now.”
The image returned, and the robot said, “It appears you are unworthy. You will be destroyed.” The image flicked off.
Justin said, “This is bad. Our sensors are reading ten sub-nuclear energy signatures on that ship. That’s enough power to crack the crust of the Earth.”
EB whimpered, “How about now?”
Red Fury yelled, “I want everyone to form a neat line. We’re heading for bay 1!”
Sirens screamed as both agents and heroes scrambled all over the place. People bumped into David several times, and he skillfully avoided a robot that was in a hurry to reach an unknown destination. The scene overflowed with controlled chaos, suggesting that the control would be lost soon. Other recruits gathered around him as the four armed instructor bellowed directions at them like a first-grade teacher organizing their students.
“Move, one two, one two! NOW!” Red Fury jogged with them, guiding them along at a hurried pace.
David followed as close as he could until he nearly tripped over an older woman who was struggling to keep up. “Here, can I help?” David asked.
She said, “I can’t run like them.” A dire fear filled her eyes as she struggled to move.
“I will carry you.” David picked her up and held her in his arms, his new morphonic strength proving to make her as light as a feather in his arms.
They rounded corners and rushed down hallways as the station continued to sound the alarm. Soon, they crossed through the mess toward another hallway. The lights in this room changed to a flashing red and a loud computer voice said, “Class Ten emergency! All heroes, this is a Class Ten Emergency!”
“Damn!” Red Fury bellowed, but then threw several arms over his head as he waved them along. “Keep up, move. Good work Mr. David.”
David followed along, hoping the old woman couldn’t hear his heart racing in fear at this. He did not know what constituted a Class Ten emergency, but it was bad enough to send BADGE into this frenzy and that was all he needed to know.
They raced out into the enormous main docking bay of the station. Several shuttles were being prepped as people lined up to get inside. Krystal Fae and Chase both directed everyone to their locations.
Red Fury stopped the team and spoke directly to Krystal, “What is going on? I thought you were magic’ing them down to the planet's surface.”
Krystal said, “Not safe any longer.”
David asked, “What?”
“There’s no time to explain,” Chase said. “We’ll be putting everyone on the shuttles and moving you to a safe distance while we prepare the Orbital Arena to receive guests.”
David set the old woman down so she could get in line with the others. He asked Red Fury, “What is a Class Ten emergency?”
“You don’t need to know.”
“Yes, I do. I want to go home, I want out of this situation. What is the emergency?”
Red Fury said, “A Class Ten means that the entire planet is at risk. It isn’t safe to go back right now.”
David went numb. He didn’t know when or how, but someone moved him into a shuttle with many others. The shuttle flew away from the station. He couldn’t stop thinking about his friends, his coworkers, his home, his cat. Everything was in grave danger, and he might see none of them again. A great flash of light jostled his rattled mind, and everyone gasped as the shuttle rocked hard.
A woman screamed, “It exploded!”
David couldn’t see. This shuttle didn’t have passenger windows, just the front. What had just exploded?
Ten Minutes before:
“I want information now! Where is it targeting? What missiles will it be firing? Get the heroes into space!” Nova spoke to various people and robots around him at the top of his voice.
EB said, “Come on, this is big. Get those big wings out and go slicey slicey that ship with your super sword!”
Nova scoffed, “I can’t. Not anymore.”
“What!”
“Not the time to discuss this!” Nova looked over at a screen. Five heroes flew into space, led by Strange Quark. “Communications open a channel to Quark.”
“It is open.”
“Quark, we don’t know when it will fire, but the weapon readings are growing off the charts. Can you do anything?”
“Don’t worry, I got this.”
EB said, “Quark, bud, that won’t...”
“Not now!” Nova barked.
“But,...”
“NOT NOW! Quark, do it!”
Quark stopped in space, watching this rusted hulk slowly moving toward Earth. The other heroes around him waited for his next action.
“Okay, one ship, zapped to the surface of the sun, coming up!” He waved his hands and snapped both fingers.
A bubble of energy formed around the ship and buzzed, but then nothing happened. He tried this again, with more flourish in his actions. Nothing but the same buzz.
“Aw, duck feathers! It has quantum shields!” He slapped his comm. “Nova, that thing has super advanced shields.”
EB said, “I was try’n to tell ya. Legion has had Quantum shields for like a billion years. You can’t just zap it away.”
Nova asked, “Anything else we need to know?”
EB said, “I don’t know much more, well, cept that the defense systems aren’t weapons based. But, I can’t remember what they used to defend the ship. “
“Can we penetrate the shields?”
“Maybe. Those things are tough eggs to crack. But, you might...”
“Warning, critical decent!” Robot 12323 announced. “Vessel’s orbit is failing. Impact imminent.”
EB hopped up, “Aw, carrot sticks! That’s it! These ships are suicidal. They don’t launch anything, they charge up and them ram the planet.”
Nova yelled into his comm, “Quark! Tell the heroes out there to blow that thing up!” He then yelled into the comm of the station, “Arx, plan B. Move!”
Arx stood at the edge of a smaller docking bay with a unit of his ATLAS heroes. He wore a rocket-geared space suit, as did all the other non-space-abled heroes.
“This is an ATLAS situation. The call to heroes from the surface has gone out, but they probably won’t make it in time. It is up to us. We can’t let that ship hit the planet! Go, Go, Go!” He jumped through the force-field as his rockets buzzed on. They propelled Arx toward the falling ancient vessel. Behind him flew two dozen members of ATLAS.
Approaching the rusted ship, they could see the heroes already there, blasting away. Beams of energy and even two heroes were punching it. Their attacks hit an energy barrier that flickered with the iridescent rainbow hues like the surface of oil. However, nothing was touching the hull of the ship.
“Pop that bubble!” Arx yelled and then dove straight at it with both fists out. He rammed it, but merely bounced off.
A pair of twins rushed up. One used her powers to create large balls of energy that turned solid. Her sister met the object with a hard kick that sent it zooming toward the ship. When it hit, it would bounce off the shields and then evaporate. Others sent eye beams or blasts of energy from their hands.
Arx heard a loud beeping in his suit, and he checked a monitor on his wrist. Punching the call-button he contacted Nova. “Sir, we have a serious problem… actually several.”
“What is it?”
“We aren’t doing much damage to the shields of this thing. Also, the radiation levels are dangerously high. This thing is going to kill us before we can finish this.”
“I’m sorry, Arx, but you will have to put your team at the risk of death. If that ship crashes into the surface of the planet, a lot of people are going to die.”
Arx’s warning system got even louder. “Damn! It just reached the atmosphere. It will fall in less than a minute and the sub-nuclear systems are about to go critical. If that thing blows, even in the air above the surface, it will spread radiation across the planet. Billions will die.”
“Options?” Nova asked.
“I don’t… wait… what the hell is that?”
Nova heard this statement and then Arx’s voice garbled and the line cut off. All the visuals of the situation went fuzzy.
“Get him back!”
10915 Replied, “Radiation levels near Arx are blocking communications and sensors.”
“Damn!” Nova paced, “Visuals!”
“Visual sensors are being blocked by high radiation.”
“Doesn’t this station have any old cameras?” Justin asked.
“No. Only sensor based. We’re blind and deaf. I need something!”
EB hopped up. “I can go out and look. Be right back!” He vanished away.
“Idiot!” Nova scoffed. “He can’t zap back in. I need…”
The station shook hard, and the power across the entire facility flickered and died in places. Justin caught the wall he was next to while Nova hit the floor.
“Report!” Nova bellowed from the floor.
10915 answered, “Large explosion registered.”
“Oh, god. No.”
The ancient Legion battle cruiser tilted toward the planet. Parts of the ancient Legion battle cruiser burst into fires as the radiation inside it slowly destroyed what was left of the ship. Arx watched in horror as it headed for the upper atmosphere. His people were still blasting it with everything they had, but it was not enough. The shields of the ship were simply too strong.
“Arx… I don’t feel good.” A woman stopped firing beams from her hands and drifted into space.
Another person’s voice came through his comm. “Arx, the radiation is going to kill us before we can do enough.”
“We can’t do enough. But we have to try. Form up and… wait, what was that?” Something buzzed past him. Then another and another. Hundreds of objects zoomed toward the ship.
“Sir, those are satellites,” a man said.
Arx watched these satellites link using their solar panel wings. They made contact with the shields on one side of the ship. All together, they burned their rocket thrusters as hot as possible and the ship slowly moved back away from the planet.
“Arx, those things are pushing it away from the planet!” One of his people reported.
“Are they BADGE?”
“No, those are telecom satellites… I think they are from Ren Tech.”
Arx said, “Help them!”
Quark appeared next to him. “Don’t bother. They have already pushed it outside of the danger zone. That ship’s gonna blow before they run out of fuel. Move your people away.”
Arx held up his comm to send out the signal when he noticed large chunks of the ship falling away. “It’s coming apart!”
“If it’s not one thing, it’s another.” Quark said, “But we can deal with the debris.”
“On it,” Arx pressed his comm, “Everyone, move away from the ship, but take out that falling debris.”
The heroes and ATLAS people flew at a distance around the ship, blasting and destroying the larger bits of debris that fell away. Once the remnants were small enough, they would burn up in the atmosphere.
“Warning, detonation imminent. Warning, detonation imminent.” Arx’s suit alerted him.
“Move!” He yelled, forgetting to hit the comm.
Quark clapped his hands and zapped all the people away from their furious attack on the debris, causing them to gather near Arx. Before either could say or do anything, they saw the flash point of the detonation of ten of the most powerful bombs in the known universe. However, they felt nothing.
Arx opened his eyes and was in almost complete darkness. He could only see the little lights on his suit and the suits of people around him, along with the odd bluish glow from Quark. EB floated by with a smile on his face. He pointed up, and the darkness cracked and shattered away. It was a giant eggshell.
Nova and Krystal Fae watched the monitors on the station while drones flew around the cloud of debris from the ancient ship. Shuttles carrying the people from the station returned to the docking bays, and the evacuees disembarked.
Arx left the lift with Chase and EB. He approached and informed, “Dr. Henderson says my people have experienced some minor radiation poisoning, but it can be easily dealt with. The ATLAS sensors on the planet show that only a handful of larger objects made it through and fell to the ground. I have people already going to investigate and offer aid.”
“Good work. ATLAS is proving its worth every day.”
“Thank you. I would like to take credit for the success of this, but we really didn’t make this happen. Those satellites saved the day.”
“I know, and I’m going to find out why.”
Krystal said, “Still suspicious?”
“Not entirely. I believe people can do good deeds. But I also know that big corporations are often working an angle for their benefit first.”
Krystal said, “Always the cynic.”
Chase asked Krystal, “Why are you still up here?”
“Just getting some details for the news report. Being able to be this close to these stories is why I am one of the top reporters in the industry.”
Nova asked Chase, “How are the recruits faring?”
Chase said, “Rattled nerves are all that they suffer from. We don’t normally have a global catastrophe when we assess potential new heroes.”
“A healthy dose of reality is a good thing. Though I’d rather not put the Earth at such a risk.”
10915 announced, “Incoming transmission from Dr. Adam Chorad.”
“Chorad?” Krystal looked at Nova. “When did he get our number?”
“I asked him to contact us. I have questions.”
“Oh, I see. I hope you don’t mind me taking some notes.” Krystal stepped back.
“Just be honest.”
“Always.”
The screen flicked on and they were now looking at the pristine interior of Dr. Chorad’s office at Ren Tech. He had a brilliant smile as he sat behind his desk. “I’m so glad to hear from you, and that you and the BADGE station are okay. Any heroes hurt in the incident?”
“Thank you for your time and concerns. No, the heroes are fine.”
“Good to hear.”
Nova spent a moment gathering himself before he said, “Before I say anything else, I want to say thank you, as do all the members of BADGE and ATLAS. Your system saved us and Earth.”
“So glad we could help.”
“Now, I have to know… how did you know?”
Dr. Chorad said, “There was a global alert. Of course, we all knew.”
“The alert was a general alert, not specific. The was no time for details to reach you. You had enough information to know exactly how to help.”
Chase whispered, “Don’t sound so accusatory. He saved our lives.”
Dr. Chorad laughed and answered, “Don’t worry, I expected Director Nova to be suspicious. After meeting him, I got confirmation of what most people know. Nova has a critical mind, which protects him and us, and provides him with the tools to help defend this world.”
“Thank you for the flattery. Now, please answer my question.”
“No, we did not learn the details of this from any regular news source. However, Ren Tech has over eight hundred satellites in orbit. We have the largest network of telecommunication satellites in the industry. We have been using them to monitor threats. When BADGE sends out a general alert to the population, we comb our own systems to see what we can learn.”
“To what end?” Nova asked.
“I see that critical mind is also filled with rocks,” Dr. Chorad said, losing his cheerful attitude and looking far more serious. “You may not know this, but BADGE alerts send people into a panic. You spread fear with every warning. We all know it is for our own good, like a tornado warning. But it still scares us. The unknown is the most frightening thing. Even a tornado warning tells you what the danger is. Ren Tech has some capacity to help. In fact, in recent times, we have used our tech to enhance the networks in at-risk areas so your teams and the local authorities can keep communicating. You’re welcome. In this situation, we saw that something big and ugly was about to fall out of the sky. My teams also told me that our own radiation sensors were off the charts. We were moments away from a global threat of radiation poisoning… regardless of a giant ship crashing into the ground. I made a decision to sacrifice half of our network of satellites to help you and save Earth. BADGE doesn’t own the right to be heroes, Nova.”
Krystal Fae clapped. Nova turned and glared at her. She said, “He’s right, you know. If BADGE would allow the media to actually inform people about the danger, it might lessen the fear.”
“Not now.” Nova stated, and then turned back to Dr. Chorad. With a lot of strength, and no small amount of humility, Nova finally uttered, “Then, I apologize.” He continued, “I have operated certain ways for centuries and I suppose times and people have changed. I will consider a more open flow of information in the future. Now, is there any way BADGE can help you repair the network you decimated for this act of heroism?”
The cheerful smile returned as Dr. Chorad said, “We were already planning on moving most of the satellite’s functions to the new spheres. This will push that project up quickly, but we can manage. Only the GPS system will remain in orbit, and it should work fine with the smaller network.”
“Good to hear.”
Dr. Chorad said, “Now, I have a lot of on my schedule as I am sure you do as well. Don’t be a stranger. If Ren Tech can be of any assistance in the future, we would be glad to help.”
“I will keep that in mind. Director Nova out.” The comm channel ended.
Krystal said, “Saying goodbye is customary when talking to regular people.”
“You should have all you need for your story.” This was Nova’s way of telling her to leave.
Krystal snapped her fingers and vanished.
EB said, “That guy is really nice. Like, super nice, and his tech is soooo cool. I just downloaded this game that…”
“Not now.” Nova walked toward his office.
Chase said, “What’s bothering him?”
EB casually said, “Nova’s always had a keen eye and great judgement for sniffing out the big bad guys. A handsome, smiling face is not enough mask to protect them from Nova’s famous scrutiny. He was ready to not trust this Dr. Chorad, but is finding… for once… his skeptical mind might be wrong. Having to apologize to someone he suspects is probably really, really sticking in his craw. But this wouldn’t be the first time. There was this one time, back when we were traveling with Captain Cook that… “ EB continued telling his stories while Chase led him back out of the room.
A cargo truck rumbled down a long, flat road in the middle of the night. The driver, wearing a BADGE maintenance uniform, worked hard not to fall asleep.
“Breaker, breaker, this is Big Weasel. Come in.” His comm unit activated.
He grabbed it and said, “This isn’t a CB radio. Stop calling yourself that.”
“Hey, we have the most boring BADGE assignment on the planet. Run supplies to Purg Pen every day from Perth. I gotta find my fun somewhere.”
“Okay, Big Weasel, why did you contact me? I just left Purgatory Pen. I got another hour before I make the city limits.”
“Oh, there was a sighting of some of the space debris falling near you. I was hoping you saw it. Might make the drive a little more interesting.”
“I... wait, I do see something. There is a fire burning and a big plume of smoke in the distance. That’s gotta be it. Nothing else out here to burn.”
“Nice. I...a....ch....a...” The signal rattled and faded.
“Big Weasel, you’re breaking up.” Nothing. “Hey, Bob! What’s the matter with this... WHAT THE HELL!”
He ran the truck right into a giant robot. It turned and powerful laser beams from its eyes were the last thing he ever saw.
Nova walked out in front of the screen of the theater on the station. Several dozen people, who had been assessed over the past few weeks, sat in front of him. David was in the front row.
“Hello, again. I’m glad to say that the assessment phase is now completed. Each of you has decided on your future plans and I wish you the best. I wanted to personally apologize for the extreme conditions recently. However, you all got a full education of what it is like to be a hero, a BADGE agent, and a member of ATLAS. I couldn’t have planned a better demonstration of all those facets. However, I would never have put you in that kind of danger on purpose. I thank you for your calmness and ability to follow directions clearly. Now, those of you who have joined ATLAS, you will follow Arx to the ATLAS area where he will begin you orientation and hand out your class assignments. Those who have joined BADGE as a hero recruit, Agent Justin will lead you to a classroom for your orientation. All others who have decided not to accept our offer will be taken by Dr. Henderson to the laboratory section of the station. She will guide you in understanding how to control your powers while you live a normal life on earth. Again, thank you.”
David clapped along with the others and then watched the room break up into sections. The number of people who joined ATLAS surprised him. Before he could find his group, Red Fury walked up to him.
“I understand you made your choice?”
“I did, sir.”
Red Fury rubbed the back of his neck with one of his four arms. “Sorry to hear you’re leaving. You have real hero potential.”
“Why would you say that?”
“I saw how you instinctively helped the old lady during the crisis.”
“I just made sure she got to the bay. That wasn’t superhero stuff. I hardly used my new powers. I could have carried her before I got super strong.”
“Look, being a hero isn’t about having powers, it’s about doing what is right instead of what is easy. You saw a person at risk and you instantly did the right thing.”
“I guess. But, after that crisis, I realized I was not ready for this life.”
“No one is. Training, practice, and experience make us all seem ready for anything. But even I get a knot in my stomach when there’s a class ten distress signal.”
“Really?”
“Sure, I ain’t made of ice. I know how to feel fear.” Fury put two hands on David’s shoulders, “Just know, suppressing your powers isn’t permanent. If you decide to give this a try, BADGE will take your call. I know you can be an asset to us and the world.”
“I... I will think about that. Thanks.”
“Good luck.”
Nova walked over at that moment, “Son, you need to...“ His comm activated and EB yelled through it.
“NOVA, WE GOT PROBLEMS!”
“Sorry,” Nova said and walked away. “What is it?”
David looked back, unsure what to think of Director Nova looking uncertain. A kind woman approached, “Ah, David, good. Come with me.” He knew her. She gave him a complete physical when he arrived as part of his assessment.
Nova stepped into the Operations room with Gar and Justin standing in command while EB hopped up and down near Nova.
“I told you this would happen. We should’a blown that ship up the moment we saw it. Then again, it probably wouldn’t have blown up too easy. Whatever. You see! You see! A Legion Deathbot!”
Looking at the main monitors, Nova saw an ancient robot standing outside of Purgatory Penitentiary.
“I haven’t seen one of those in centuries.” Nova whispered.
Justin asked, “What is it?”
“A LEGION DEATHBOT!” EB bellowed.
Nova said, “EB is right. That is a robot from Legion. At least, back when Legion sent those things in to pre-test a world. They stopped that practice eons ago. It looks damaged.”
Justin said, “Our sensors show it has suffered damage from the crash. And it appears to be... rusted. I didn’t think Legion tech could rust, but this one is in terrible shape.”
“My guess is that this robot is at least a thousand years old. It can’t be in good condition. What is it doing?”
Gar said, “Talking to the prison.”
“What?”
Justin clicked a button and a monitoring station outside the prison let them hear the deep, metallic sounding voice saying, “I represent Legion. There are powerful people within the walls of this stronghold. Send them to be challenged or pay the price. I represent Legion. There are powerful...” Justin cut it off.
“It has been repeating that for five hours.”
“Why weren’t we notified five hours ago?” Nova asked.
“Interference from the wrecked piece of the ship near the prison. As it cooled down, their signals got through. But, so far, it has done no damage.”
“It will,” Nova said. “Tell Purgatory to enable the diffusion shields.”
Justin sent out the message.
Gar asked, “What are the diffusion shields?”
“They block sensors from reading inside the prison. We normally don’t need to use them, only when someone is searching for a secret prisoner. Its purpose is to seek the strongest people and attack them. It is reading the villains inside purgatory pen. If we block that, then it might stop sensing them and head back for its ship.”
EB happily added, “Which is in a billion atoms right now, so it will be lost and confused. Easy target!”
“My thoughts exactly.”
Justin said, “Purgatory Pen has responded. They have activated diffusion shields.”
Everyone watched the screen as the robot continued challenging the prison. The energy barrier around the prison changed to a bluish color. The robot stopped moving for a moment, its eyes changed to green, and it turned and walked away.
“Got you.” Nova whispered.
“WOOT!” EB hopped around the room. “That deathbot’s brain is now scrambled eggs.”
Justin asked, “What do we do now?”
“Now, its systems will search for the ship’s communication signal, which doesn’t exist. Until it contacts the ship, it will continue to search. Send some heroes down to assess it and take it out if possible.”
EB asked, "Won't it detect heroes if we send them down? I want it blown up, but those deathbots were really, really nasty pieces of work."
Nova answered, "Now that we have confused its initial search for an opponent, the computer should be searching for a new signal to give it another command. Since there are no Legion signals on Earth, it won't get the command. So, it won't be searching for opponents any longer."
“Don’t you want to alert Perth?” Gar asked.
Nova said, “No. This is no longer a viable threat. We scared the world with a class ten warning. I don’t want to rattle frayed nerves this soon. Just tell our team to be discreet and find a way to either destroy or at least deactivate that robot.”
“On it.” Justin pressed his comm and started handing out orders.
Nova said, “I’m ready to turn in for the night.”
“Me too.” EB hopped along with him. “I could use a good, stiff drink after these past few days. I’m think’n a double thick hot chocolate with loads of marshmallows. You?”
“A bed and a good book.” Nova walked into the lift with EB.
David sat in the passenger seat of a BADGE shuttle as it zoomed toward the planet. He leaned over slightly to get a better view out the front window. This was likely his last chance to be in space, and he wanted to enjoy the experience. Around him sat four other heroes.
“So, you heading back home?” A woman asked.
“Yeah. But I’m still thinking about joining.” He was hesitant to admit this.
She gave him a friendly smack in the shoulder. “Don’t feel blue about struggling. It’s a big choice. We all gave it loads of thought.”
“Sure. But I’m one of only three that gave up on the chances. And the other two are both over eighty.”
“We all lead our own lives how we want.”
He wanted to change the subject. “Why are you heading down? Joining a league?”
She said, “No. Brevis, Kal, Jolt, and I are working with Captain Aqua. He’s our instructor. We have a field assignment to deal with some broken robot. Nothing special. We get a trip to Australia out of it, so that’s nice.”
A man in a blue spandex suit with a flowing cape stood in the aisle. “Okay, people. This shouldn’t be a big job. But, this robot is old Legion Tech, so it won’t be a walk in the park either. Reports are that its systems are confused, and it is meandering. If all goes well, we can knock it down and shut it off before dinner. Questions?”
David said, “Are we going to stop by Detroit before we get to Australia?”
“Oh, sorry. No, we’re going to be dropped off first. Then, the pilot will take you home. Sorry about the big detour. We only had a few shuttles that didn’t need repair after the explosion in space damaged their systems.”
“No problem.” David sat back, wondering when he would get home.
“Sir, we have an issue.” The pilot announced.
“What?”
“The robot appears to be heading into Perth.”
“What? Has BADGE seen this?”
The pilot punched in a command and got nothing but a strange buzzing sound. “I can’t get BADGE.”
Jolt looked at a device on his suit and said, “No, this isn’t good. There is a powerful jamming signal coming up from the planet.”
Captain Aqua said, “Legion always enjoyed killing communications.”
“Should we return to the station?” The pilot asked.
“No, this could be a real danger. Sorry, people, this looks like it’s going to be a bigger fight than I thought. Get us to that robot and then get back to the station.”
“Understood.”
David watched the other heroes ready themselves for a fight as the shuttle swiftly sped toward Perth, Australia. His heart raced, and he wasn’t even joining them.
As the hero walked by, David stopped Captain Aqua and asked, “Will you send me back to the station? I…” The shuttled rocked hard with systems flashing and sparking.
“We’re under fire!” The pilot yelled over the buzzing systems.
Smoke filled the cabin from an electrical fire as the shuttle’s systems tried to fight it.
One of the other heroes jumped into the co-pilot’s seat and held onto the secondary controls. “Why is it looking for us? I thought it wasn’t even supposed to be hunting heroes?”
The pilot sprayed fire extinguisher on part of his panel. “I don’t know. It even saw through our cloak.”
“I don’t know. INCOMING!” The hero drove the shuttle to the right and then the left as bright red beams shot from the surface at them.
David held back a scream when one beam cut right through the floor, pierced the ceiling, and almost cut his foot off. A siren buzzed as the shuttle spun out of control.
“Warning, warning, navigation systems off-line. Warning...” The computer announced.
David held his seat and felt the safety belt pressing into him, keeping him from being slammed against every part of the interior. When the shuttle was hit again and part of the aft section exploded, a girl jumped out of her seat and rolled across the floor. Once she was on the floor, she slapped both hands against the surface and a white hazy energy burst out from her and the shuttle slowed down. She gripped the floor with her hands, straining every muscle.
“This isn’t gonna be a soft landing!” She said just as they hit a road in Perth, skidding down through town. Sliding to the side, the shuttle finally came to a stop, and the girl let go of the floor.
“Good work, Sue. That was quick thinking.” Captain Aqua said and then asked, “Is everyone okay?”
The trainee heroes and pilot were fine. David controlled his urge to vomit and then gave a thumbs up.
The pilot ripped off his safety belt and said, “Get out. The power systems are about to blow.”
“Move, people!” Captain Aqua yelled.
David saw two people yanking on the door, but it was damaged and couldn’t be opened. “Here, let me!” He balled his fists together and swung. With a hard slam, the door flew off the side of the shuttle and hit a nearby building.
Everyone ran from the shuttle, heading down a long, empty street in the middle of the night. Captain Aqua quickly used his own powers to summon a thick orb of water to surround the shuttle. It exploded, but the water cushioned the eruption and protected them and the nearby structures.
“Well, there goes our ride home,” One trainee muttered.
The pilot clicked his comm. “Damn, I can’t get BADGE.”
“I can’t get anyone. This dampening field is blocking all comms, even local.” Captain Aqua stated.
A police care raced up to them, sirens going strong. The moment it stopped, a man jumped out with a gun. “Stand down!”
“What? No, we are with BADGE.” The Pilot said.
Captain Aqua approached, his hands held up. “Sorry, officer. We did not mean to alarm you.”
“You didn’t alarm us. We have the city on lock-down. There is a dangerous robot coming in and we cannot call out for help.”
“We’re here to stop it. Apparently, it’s sending out a jamming signal. We can’t call BADGE for backup.”
The officer clicked his walkie on his shoulder, which made a fuzzy whine. “We can’t talk to anyone.”
“We need to find this robot and put it down.” Captain Aqua said.
“Last report I heard, it was heading for King’s Park,” the officer said.
“Okay, trainees, spread out in pairs and head in different directions, but focus on getting to King’s Park. Mr. David, you go with the officer...”
“No, I’ll go with a trainee and help. You have an odd number. I’ll make it even.”
Aqua thought for a second, then said, “Fine. We need all the help we can get. Go with Sue. No one engages the robot until we can ambush it together. This may be ancient tech, but it is still Legion tech. If you find it, use a holoflare to notify the rest of us. Now, move.”
David joined the girl who saved the shuttle and ran down a street toward another road. The officer gave each group directions, based on different ways to get to King’s Park. Their GPS systems on their BADGE comms or cell phones were completely useless, while the dampening field was in place.
After going down several roads and through some alleys, they both heard a distinctive stomping sound.
“I think we’re getting close to it,” Sue said.
David paused and closed his eyes. “It’s walking that way, I think.”
“Good.” Sue ran ahead of him and rounded a corner.
The moment she did, both nearly were under the foot of the stomping robot. David grabbed her arm and swung her back around him into the alley.
Sue said, “I think we found it.” Pressing a button on her BADGE comm, she aimed it upward and a small ball of red light shot into the air.
“What is that?”
“Standard issue BADGE comm unit. It has a holoflare built into it. Plasma point light.”
“Nice.”
Someone yelled, “GET OUT OF MY CITY!”
David looked around the corner. “Aw, crap. Idiot!”
Sue joined him and saw a young man with a metal baseball bat running at the robot. “DON’T ATTACK IT!” she yelled, but it was too late.
The boy slugged the leg of the giant robot with the bat and then fell over from the repercussion.
The robot stated, “Weaklings will be destroyed.”
“Oh, hell.” David ran around the corner and grabbed a man-hole cover in a swift grab. He flung it with all his might, and discus training in college. The heavy metal cover hit the robot just as it shot a red laser to obliterate the boy. The laser, instead, blasted through a brick wall of a building.
“Challenger, prepare to fight.” The robot slowly turned to attack David.
Sue ran past David with her hand on the side of a car. It was hovering in the air under her unique power. With one throw of her arm, the car flew at the robot and crashed directly into its chest. It staggered backward and nearly fell over. “Run, kid!” she yelled.
The boy scrambled to his feet and rushed away down a dark alley.
“What do we do now?” David asked.
Sue smiled. “It wants a challenge, then let it chase us down. Come on, to King’s Park.” She ran hard.
David ripped a concrete parking pillar out of the ground and lobbed it at the robot, hitting it in the leg and causing it to fall over. It was enough to give them time. He followed Sue as fast as he could, passing the disabled monster and rushing toward the open park at the end of this street.
A red laser beam blasted beside them and the road exploded in an eruption of asphalt.
“Crap, crap, crap! It’s targeting us,” David said and started moving in a less direct run.
Sun ducked as a beam went right over their heads. “Good thing its aim is garbage.”
“Yeah, but it only takes one hit.”
“The park!” Sue yelled as they exited the into the grassy park space.
A red blast of energy went right between them and contacted a tree. The old tree exploded from the inside, sending flaming wood showering down over the area.
David stopped in the grass and looked around. “I got nothing to throw and I’m sure as hell not going to fight that in hand to hand.”
Sue ducked as another laser beam sped toward her. She barely avoided death, but then the ground behind her exploded, thrusting her forward. David could see blood and wounds all over her. Grabbing her up, he ran as hard.
“Where are those other heroes?” He muttered.
Ahead of him was one of those Ren Tech spheres. He hid behind it, Sue in his arms. “This thing will not protect us for long. Where are those trainees?”
David’s heart throbbed as sweat poured down his face. Sue lay on the ground near him, out cold. He wasn’t sure of the extent of her injury. But that mattered little if this robot got to them. It was just a few feet away. Only this strange sphere from Ren Tech stood between them. Yet, something was off. There were no more heavy footsteps, and the blasting beams coming from the robot were gone.
“Okay, I have to check.” He carefully bent down and looked under the sphere. To his shock, he saw the feet of the robot standing on the other side. It was facing them, or really it was facing the sphere. But it was completely still. “What the hell is that thing doing?” Hoping it was out of power and had simply stopped moving, David leaned around the side and see if its glowing eyes were dark.
The moment he stepped to the side, the robot turned its head, and those eyes lit up. Before he could move, or it could fire, a giant wave of water crashed into it and sent the robot sprawling across the park. The moment it stopped rolling in the water, its eyes emitted the beams and sent two red lasers harmlessly into the sky.
Captain Aqua landed near them, having ridden a wave across the ground. “Are you okay?”
“Sue is hurt.”
Jolt ran over to them. “No time for conversation. It’s getting up!” He ran to the side and thrust his hands up. An electro-static barrier formed in the air that met the lasers from the eyes. The shield exploded, but stopped the lasers.
Aqua yelled, “Get her outta here! We’ll take care of this!”
“On it.” David scooped Sue up into his arms and ran.
An enormous wolf ran by with a man riding its back. Kal, a metamorph, carried Brevis, who held out two sabers made of pure energy. “CRY HAVOC! AND LET SLIP THE DOGS OF WAR!” Brevis bellowed as he jumped off the giant wolf and flipped over the Robot, slicing at its left arm with his blades. Brevis cut the arm of the robot clean from the shoulder and it crashed to the ground.
Undeterred by the loss of a limb, the robot spun around, swinging its remaining arm. It nailed Brevis before he could reach the ground and he flew across the park and crashed into a pond. The wolf got to the robot, only to be kneed in the chin and then slammed in the head with the left arm.
“TAKE THIS!” Jolt sent out a bolt of electricity that ripped a metal lamp post from the nearby street and flung it at the robot. The pole made contact with the face of the robot and it staggered backward, falling down a hill toward the ocean.
David paused in his retreat, hoping the battle was finally over. Aqua ran to help Brevis while Kal and Jolt waited to see as well. Then the robot’s head appeared as it walked back up the hill. Jolt and Kal were both about to attack when the robot released a bright green beam of energy from its face. It didn’t target any one person. It sprayed the surrounding ground with unrelenting power. Sod, dirt, trees, rocks, and heroes went flying every which way. Fires exploded up from areas and smoke mixed with dust clouded the park.
“Sweet Jesus! That thing is going to destroy everyone,” David whispered.
A weak voice in his arms said, “You have to stop it. The city is in danger.”
David looked down at Sue and said, “But I’m not a hero.”
“You can be, just this once. Please.”
The ominous stomping of that monster roared around him as the park turned to ruin. He was the last hero standing. He gently put Sue down and bolstered himself with a primal scream as he rushed toward his enemy. More bright green beams hit the park in other areas as it went to level every inch of goodness nearby.
Grabbing the lamppost on the ground, David muscled up his morphonic strength and got right up to the robot. “HEY, YOU RUST BUCKET. LET’S PLAY SOME BASEBALL!” He swung and hit it in the side. It staggered and then turned to fight. Before it could respond, he swung again, and again, and again. He slammed it left and right. Crunching through ancient metal and breaking free its armor.
The robot leaned forward and blasted a laser beam at him. He jumped out of the way, but the explosion rolled both him and his improvised weapon across the ground.
“Challengers defeated. Annihilating unworthy opponents.” The robot said as it turned to finish him.
“Not yet!” David grabbed the post and thrust it straight forward with every ounce of effort possible. The post pierced the robot in the chest and sent it crashing backward. On the other side of the post, now free of the robot’s body, was a green glowing energy generator. The robot was now completely off line.
“Challenger defeated!” David yelled at it.
Five BADGE shuttles surrounded the battle zone in King’s Park. Medics helped the injured while investigative teams checked the robots’ remains and the damage done. One group walked around, registering the radiation levels. Torrik and Krystal Fae were already working to restore the park where they could.
Director Nova walked up to David, who sat on a park bench with Dr. Henderson looking him over.
“Captain Aqua tells me you stepped up willingly.”
“I saw a need and did what I could.”
Nova smiled, “Like a genuine hero.”
Dr. Henderson closed her sensor device and said, “I understand the mayor of Perth wants to award you a medal?”
“Yes. But, I turned it down. I don’t want to be on the news and get big awards. I just want to go home.”
“So, you still want to turn down our offer to help train you to be a hero?” Nova said.
“Look, I wish I could be a hero. And I rather enjoyed using my new powers. But, to be honest, I was absolutely terrified.
Nova said, “You have the right to your choice and I won’t stand in your way. But, understand something. Heroes don’t lack fear, they simply choose courage over fear. You chose courage today and saved a lot of lives, including all the heroes around you.”
David said, “I’ll think about what you’ve said. But I still want to head home.”
“You have our number. Contact us if you change your mind. Now, head for shuttle Five. It’ll take you home and set you up with the morphonic suppression system.”
“Got it.” David stood, shook Nova’s hand, and left.
Dr. Henderson said, “That boy has the makings of a great hero.”
“I know. And I wager he’ll figure that out soon enough. Now, onto other matters. What happened here?”
Dr. Henderson walked with him toward the center of the area, which was where the Ren Tech Sphere hovered. “We have reports from David, Aqua, and Jolt. They all saw this robot stomp its way into this park and then simply stop and stare at this sphere.”
“Any idea why?”
“You got me. These spheres still defy our ability to scan them. My sensors all say it is a giant, floating lump of metal. That’s all.”
“I don’t like this. I want these things studied.”
Dr. Henderson said, “The moment we touch them, BADGE will be in court.”
“And we wouldn’t have much of a case since there seems to be nothing wrong with them.”
“We would lose international support and, once again, our PR would be tanking.”
“I hate social politics,” Nova grumbled.
“I know. However, we occasionally require them to maintain our work.”
Nova pointed at the sphere. “Use everything you can within the law. I want information about these things.”
“I’ll try.”
David returned to his apartment in Detroit. Life seemed so much simpler now. Detroit was never a quiet place, but tonight, it feel utterly silent. It wasn’t. In fact, it was normal. But, life has been so chaotic recently, it put this into a whole new perspective.
“Where are you?” His cat had gotten out the moment he returned. She was running around in the park by his house.
Rounding a corner, he stopped when he saw one of those silver spheres hovering. It had appeared while he was away, so this was completely new to him. It intrigued him. The world didn’t know how much these things frustrated BADGE, but he was fully aware.
Walking up to it, he could see his warped reflection on the curved surface. It was so smooth, shiny, and silent. It hovered effortlessly above the ground. He paused as he looked at the small patch stuck to the side of his neck. It was the one item he had to wear that made the morphon suppressor work. He touched it with his finger, looking at it through the reflection.
“I guess this will be a part of my life from now on,” He said.
A beeping noise came from inside the sphere. That turned to a humming.
“Weird.” He leaned in closer. Dr. Henderson had told him that the spheres were oddly silent, giving off nothing to study. “Maybe I should call them and let them know.” He turned to go back to his apartment.
A bright light appeared behind him and his body lurched under some invisible force. His feet left the ground and his body flew backwards. For a moment, he was in nothing but darkness. Piercing pain flooded his body and oozy liquid filled the surrounding space. He screamed, he flailed his arms and legs, but to no avail. Soon, he succumb to the darkness and the world fell away.
TO BE CONTINUED...
Nova walked down from his office to the main floor of Operations. A steaming cup of coffee in one hand and almost a smile on his face. Gar was on duty, watching over the station through the night.
“All quiet,” Gar stated.
Nova took a sip of his coffee and then asked, “Has Agent Justin reported in?”
“He has not. He isn’t due to report for another hour.”
“Good. When he...”
Robot 10915 said, “Communication from Agent Justin, emergency line one.”
“Put him through.” Nova turned back to the screen.
Justin appeared. "Nova, good. We have a situation."
“What is it? Don’t tell me the tear in space is open again?”
“No. I was inspecting the area and found nothing out of the ordinary. Lady Echidna is soundly bound deep. However, using these new spectral sensors, I picked up another tear in space.”
“Where?”
“It’s in the station, or I should say the station is passing through where the tear is showing up. If I am reading this right, it should be on Deck M.”
“The Mess Hall?” Nova frowned.
“Yes.”
“Get back here, now. I want that sensor on this station. Meet me on Deck M as soon as you get back.”
“Aye, sir.”
Nova turned to Gar, “You have Operations. I will head down to see what the hell this is.”
The Mess Hall was noisy as usual. BADGE officers, heroes, and a few trainees were having breakfast. A robot tried desperately to manage a few younger children who had super powers. It was so uncommon to see Nova around here that most people stopped to look at him as he passed their tables.
Arx walked up, holding a large cappuccino. “Sir, is something wrong?”
“Yes. Have you noticed anything... unusual today?”
“EB made another pass at Chase and she didn’t threaten to neuter him.”
“This is serious.”
“Sorry. No, nothing to report.”
EB ran in from a hallway and looked around. He seemed to look for something.
“EB?” Nova and Arx walked over to him.
“Oh, hey buddy.”
“Don’t tell me you heard what I said? You were in the training room.” Arx replied.
“I’m sensing something is wrong. There is something happening in here.” He looked around for a moment.
Everyone noticed a blue flashing light from inside the arboretum.
“That has to be it.” Nova left them and hurried toward the entrance.
Arx and EB followed. EB said, “And, I heard you. Hello, bunny ears!” He pointed at his head.
“Oh, sorry.”
They left the metal station for the grassy sprawling park of the arboretum. In the middle of the open grounds, a flickering blue light appeared in the middle of the air.
“What is that?” Arx asked.
EB said, “That feels like a rip in space.”
“Good senses,” Nova examined it from afar. “That’s precisely what it is. And I don’t like it being here.”
“How did it get here?”
“I can explain, at least some of that.” Justin walked up with a bulky scanner in his hands. “The top layer of space has had extreme stress from the gravimetric distortion of the recent tear from Lady Echidna. Subsequent gravitational waves have caused instability in the event horizon of the original rupture. That has led to further instability across the area. Influx of verteron particles have condensed the disturbance into a compressed anomaly, which has created another tear, which is becoming increasingly unstable.”
EB clapped, “Wow, that was pretty good. Nice analysis.”
Arx said, “All I heard were a lot of big science words.”
EB said, “What it all means is that the big hole that Lady Echidna ripped has caused some problems, and they all came together to create this. Which is another hole in space.”
“Oh... wait, how did you know that?”
EB scoffed, “I was traveling in starships and learning about space before Galileo was born. I’m technically a space alien.”
Nova said, “What I want to know is how we close this. I don’t want another gateway for god knows what. We barely survived Lady Echidna.”
Justin said, “I don’t know, sir. The last tear took Midgard to close and he... sacrificed himself to make that possible.”
Nova looked at Arx. “Get your ATLAS teams ready for this. We might have an invasion or something worse. EB, I want this station evacuated and locked down. Justin, have Dr. Henderson and all the other scientists looking at the data and find answers. MOVE!”
A blue hand reached over and held a glass of wine in front of Nova’s face. Strange Quark said, “Cool it, you’re gonna burst a blood vessel. Have some of this. It’s a good year.”
“Quark! Where in the world did you come from?”
“I was minding my own business, being a duck, swimming in a pool filled with whiskey... fantastic stuff at that, then I suddenly felt this disturbance in the space force.”
“Can you provide answers?”
Quark walked up to the disturbance. He peered at it, then paced around it, and finally walked right through it. For a moment, Quark split into five different-colored Quarks...one even had white feathers covering him. They looked at one another and waved, then he stepped back out and his doppelgangers vanished.
“What you have here is a tear in the spectral lens.”
“The what?” Justin asked.
“There are different universes spread across the quantum continuum. We are but one of them. Keeping them apart is a force that is hard to define. Let’s just say it keeps us from seeing each other. However, the rip in space and all the mess out there has created a fracture in that barrier. Now, we have a glimpse into the multiverse. It really isn’t that dangerous, though if it keeps expanding it will wipe out all existence on Earth.”
EB said, “Not dangerous, but it could kill everyone! That makes little sense.”
“Okay, so here’s the deal. If we contain it, give it a frame so it will have a boundary. It will stop expanding and settle.”
“Can we make it go away?” Nova asked.
“Nope. This is one tear that will stay. It might fade and disappear for a while, but it will show back up.”
Justin asked, “How do we contain it?”
“Create a gateway to put it in, one that is lined with anti-matter. Anti-Matter cannot cross into other universes, and other universes cannot cross it. So, it will contain it permanently.”
“Can we do that?” Nova asked.
Justin nodded. “I think so. But we’ll have to work fast. This thing is expanding as we stand here.”
“Then move!”
Several hours later, a team of robots walked into the Arboretum with a large archway. They set it up near the larger tear and slowly moved toward it.
“Nice and easy, boys. That’s our only gateway.” Quark said.
Nova, Arx, EB, Chase, and Gar watched from a distance.
“Are your teeth chattering? Mine are.” EB asked.
“Don’t fret. This will work,” Gar said.
“We hope so,” Chase added.
EB said, “If this is the last of our time, and all this universe is about to be eaten by that portal, I just want to ask for one thing.”
“No.” Chase said.
“Just one kiss?”
“No.”
Bright flashes of blue light flickered for a moment. Everyone put their hand up to their eyes and even Nova looked a little worried. However, the light stopped and turned to a gentle glow as the tear filled this archway and became stable.
“There you go.” Quark said.
Nova walked in, a little caution to his gait. “Are you sure this is good?”
Quark knocked on the side. “It’s firmly in place. You can even move this arch and take the tear with you.”
“Good, I don’t want this in the middle of the arboretum.”
“Can we go through that and check out other universes?” Arx asked.
Quark said, “Yes,... and no. If you step into another universe, you will step into another version of yourself. You will know who you are, but you won’t be the same. Once you return here, you will assume you original form. Does that make sense?”
Chase said, “Hardly anything with you makes much sense.”
“That’s the best compliment I’ve received in ages.”
Nova said, “Okay, Justin, find a suitable place for this and keep it under constant monitoring. We will consider the best use of it. Until then, the arboretum is off-limits.”
“Got it.”
Everyone walked out to get back to their normal duties, and Justin explored sections of the station, searching for the right location.
Hours later, as the station orbited the dark side of Earth, the Arboretum basked in the bluish glow of the portal. There was a flickering, and a hand came through and gripped the side, pulling the person into this universe with a great thrust. Mostly made of energy, the being sniffed the air and then said, “So, I am dead here. Good. I can be anyone I want.” The glowing person melted away, the energy passing through the decks and flying toward the Earth.
Nova stood outside the entrance to the Temple of Lady Echidna. They were currently in tall mountains where even he was uncertain of their actual location. In the far distance, the sun rose in the sky.
Wispy shadow circled around him as Lady Echidna stepped close, her elegant dress giving off tendrils of darkness. “Such a glorious sunrise,” she mused.
Nova asked, “Is it just me, or is the light from the sun. . . diminished?”
She laughed in her throat and brushed her gloved hand against his face. “The time is almost upon us. The light will fail and darkness will reign. My shadow will march across the face of this Earth.”
“BADGE won’t take it laying down.”
“Of course they won’t. But, we gave a little time of peace, and they will be anxious and grow unsure of themselves. However, that time is almost up. Come, there is much to discuss. I have questions for you.”
***
The rolling hills and deep valleys of Norway basked in the glorious blue skies with fluffy white clouds casting shadows across the well-tilled ground. Farmers drove their equipment out of the field, parking in the ruins of what was once a sturdy barn.
Torrik walked with Gar along the side of the field, looking at the recent work. Gar asked, “Are you sure this will work?”
Torrik waved his hand at Gar in a dismissive act. “This is child’s play. Kids in my world, at least nature mages like me, learn this kind of magic early on.”
A farmer in well-worn clothing approached with a nicely dressed woman. The woman, with a small name-tag on her jacket, greeted them. “Glad you could make it. Are you the superhero BADGE sent for this operation?”
Torrik took her hand and held it for a second and then let go. He
still hadn’t fully grasped the shaking of hands as per human custom. “I’m not a superhero. I’m a Satyr. But, yes, BADGE sent me to help.”
“We’re so glad to have your service. The recent conflict in the ocean with Midgard has left much of our farmlands in ruins. Our crops are utterly gone.”
“Yes. That is what I heard. Now, I warn you, magically grown crops are quick and productive, but they don’t have the finer taste of naturally grown produce.”
She asked, “Will it still be nutritious?”
“Yes. It will have the same nutrition.”
She now translated this to the farmer, who did not speak English. He shrugged and then nodded. She smiled at Torrik again. “Please, go ahead.”
Torrik left the group and cracked his knuckles as he surveyed the farmland. “Okay. So, let’s see. This is a root crop. Right. And, no need for pollination, so that should be fine. All right, let’s get this done.” He stamped his hooves, spread out his arms, and then thrust both hands forward. A wave of green energy spread out from him and covered the field. Sprouts of vegetation sprung up and then grew quickly, putting on leaves and even flowers. The rows of raw dirt soon thrived in thick plants that continued to grow. Finally, he clapped his hands together and the exponential growth came to a stop.
Torrik walked over the plants, avoiding stepping on them as he went between the rows. All three observers on the side of the field were in awe of what he had just done.
“There you go. These... what did you call them?”
Gar said, “Potatoes.”
“Ah, yes. The potatoes should be ready to harvest. Good luck.”
The farmer asked the woman something. She asked, “Is it safe?”
“Sure. The magic is done. This is just a normal field of plants now.”
She relayed this to the farmer, and then he became giddy and said something to Torrik. She translated, “He would like to invite you to have dinner with his family, to show his thanks.”
Torrik said, "I can understand him, I can understand all languages." He spoke directly to the farmer, “Thank you, kind sir. But I have several more farms to help today. Just be kind to nature and keep up the good work.”
The farmer bowed his head in thanks as Torrik and Gar left.
While on the way back to the shuttle, Gar asked, “Did they have to plant those potatoes, or could you simply create them with magic?”
“Oh, they have to plant them. I just made them grow faster.”
“But you’ve made plants before out of nothing. You covered half the station with vines when you first arrived.”
Torrik chortled at that. “Yeah, I did. But, those were made of magic. That disappears quickly. Any fruit from a magic plant has no nutrition and will never fill. And magically enhanced growth like I just did doesn’t make the best produce. Real, good, basic growth is the best. But we have a job to help clean up the mess from the battle with Midgard, and feeding the hungry is part of that mission.”
They left the farmlands and flew in the shuttle back to a temporary base camp in the middle of an empty field. BADGE agents and heroes buzzed around it like a beehive. They were not too far away from the area where the battle with Midgard took place. Large helicopters and several flying heroes lifted destroyed parts of the former dock out of the water. Another set of heroes lifted several sunk barges out of the ocean.
Chase carried a tablet in one hand and held her earpiece with the other as she talked. “Yes, I want five more trucks for the South Field operation. No, just the trucks. There is a lot of debris to get to the recycling system. Thanks. Oh, and give Red Fury the news that he can now join the demolition team on the North Sector. They need his four arms to smash through a partially destroyed roadway.” She tapped her earpiece, and the call ended.
Gar approached. “We grew the potatoes!”
Chase checked something on a tablet in her hands and then looked up at Gar. “Good. The prime minister has been asking about food production. Do you have the other farms up and running?” She addressed this question to Torrik.
He shook his head. “We were just heading there now. Remind them I can help with plant growth, but when it comes to animals, I’m not able to do anything to help them grow.”
She checked her tablet again. “It’s a cattle farm, but don’t worry. They just want the grasslands replenished. A massive fire took out most of the grazing lands during the conflict.”
“I can grow grass.”
“Thank you. You aren’t officially part of BADGE, and yet you are doing so much to help.”
“I’m a highly trained warrior and special operative from my world. I spend days and nights hunting criminals and dealing with dark magic problems. However, I trained in nature magic. I rarely get to apply it like this. It’s nice. Besides, a lot of people got hurt.”
Gar said, “I wish I could do more than just be the escort for Torrik.”
“You get your wish. Justin just contacted me and said he needs you back at the station. His team is ready for the dive and he’ll be joining them planet-side. You’ll be in charge of station operations.”
Torrik asked, “Is this the dive that’s going to be going down to the bottom of the ocean?”
Chase signed off on a document and handed it over to an agent. “Yes. In fact, it’ll be the deepest part of the ocean on Earth. The Mariana Trench.”
“Why don’t you go?” Torrik asked Gar. “You’re indestructible. I can sense the magic holding you together. You’re amazingly tough.”
Gar frowned and shook his head. “I will not go in the ocean, ever.”
Chase spoke before Torrik asked ‘the’ question. “He had an extremely bad experience in the ocean. Gar experienced being buried at sea for centuries. Since then, he avoids the water at all costs.”
“Oh, sorry about that.”
Gar said, “It is okay.”
Torrik asked Chase, “Any progress made in finding Lady Echidna’s new location?”
“No. And it has been three months since the battle with Midgard. She’s too quiet.”
“I know she hasn’t made her move on the Great Divide yet. Heroes and defenders are there all the time.”
Chase said, “This Lady Echidna is patient and calculated, which makes her nearly impossible to predict and terribly clever when she does move. I don’t like it.” She quickly tapped her ear piece. “Good. Torrik, your shuttle is ready. Gar take the main shuttle to the station. It is leaving in five minutes.”
They dispersed to their various locations as the clean-up work continued.
Nova stood in the middle of Lady Echidna’s ancient courtroom. Deep carvings covered the stone walls, while a powerful beam of light shone down over Nova, casting sharp shadows. Three points of light broke through that darkness, each planted in the eye socket of a carved beast of myth. A hydra, the Charybdis, and Fenrir. Infamous creatures that spun elaborate nightmares since the earliest recorded fables.
“Why am I standing here?” Nova asked aloud, his voice breaking through the dense quiet of the room.
Lady Echidna graced her throne with the elegance of an empress and the presence of a vampire. She turned her eyes upon him for a moment and then slowly stood up. She walked away from him to a figure seated on the floor, trembling. They were naked, green, and covered in oily scales. Even with their back to him, a pathetic essence exuded. Her hand touching his back made him tremble and even whimper.
“Centuries ago, when I called you my lover, you saw me create the four beasts of my apocalypse.” She spoke to Nova, not the pitiful creature under her hand. I crafted three of them from pure magic and nightmares. I created the visions of humans, stories they themselves crafted out of their own imagination, their fears. World ending monsters of unmitigated power. I wanted to use their nightmares to control them, to dominate them, and to ultimately use them for my purposes. Yet, it was this one, who was not my original creation, that came to me as a power that I could control.” She walked by the green scaled monster and it recoiled.
Nova said, “He found you, challenged you. You were a chance to prove his strength.”
“Yes.” She smiled. “He had the audacity to think I was weaker. But, I proved my skill was not only in sheer strength, but in manipulation, control. I dominated him. Turned him into something new, something I could use. My masterpiece. Through him I would not only weave the end of this world, but the end of Merlin’s creation on the other side of the Great Divide.”
Nova said, “Why are you telling me this? I know this. I was there.”
She came closer to him. “Midgardsormr was my finest weapon ever created. Yet, in the moment of my triumph then, he turned on me. He broke free and joined with you, a treasonous ex-lover, to exile me into the void.”
“That was before. I am devoted to you, and he is devoted to you now that you have filled his mind with your darkness.”
She became quiet again and walked around Nova in that light. Returning to Midgard, she put her hand on him, which made him twitch slightly. “You broke him, stole some of his power so that he would weaken. And, by doing so, my work over him was also weakened. He was freed of my control. Now, though he has returned, he remains weakened. He should have destroyed those heroes and ended BADGE once and for all. Yet, he lost the battle.”
“I had nothing to do with that battle.”
She pointed a gloved hand at him, and Nova grabbed his throat. “You never told me how you restrained his power back then. How you could stop him. Now, he holds back, uses less of what he is. How? Why? Tell me!”
Nova gasped in a breath when she let go. “I do not know. The shadow you placed back in his mind should have reformed him back into what he was before. I can't remember the details of how I did it, but I know I locked it away, and only your darkness could unlock it. You touched his mind again. He should be all yours.”
She looked at him for a long moment and then walked back to her throne. Sitting down, she finally said, “I do not know how much I can trust you.”
“Fenrir, Charybdis, and Hydra, I have brought them all back to you. How much more do I need to do to prove my worth, my faith in you?”
She said, “I want you to do something for me, something that Nova, the honorable leader of BADGE, would never do.”
“Name it.”
Biting her lower lip, she chuckled at him. “I love that tone, that capitulation. The time has come. I have the four powers to harvest, to bring about my greatest form. With it, I will return to Yohan and establish a new empire of dark magic that will spread far beyond that world, covering this and all the other worlds across this universe. But there is something you need to clear away. Go destroy the city of the superhero rejects near the portal in the South Pole.”
“New Meta City?”
“Yes, my love. Do not let them escape. Slaughter every man, woman and child. With the snowlands of the south drenched in the blood of the innocents, at your hand no less, you will have earned my trust.”
Nova did not crack a smile or wrinkle a single frown at this. He merely answered, “The people of New Meta City will be an easy target, but they are defended. BADGE will send considerable forces to stop me. I am not enough to truly contend with them. Unless I tap into my true potential. . . “
“No!” Her voice cracked in the air like a whip snapped at a disobedient horse. “You will not do that. I expect BADGE to respond. I want them to respond. When their dear Director Nova has his hands covered in the blood of those they swore to protect, it will dishearten them. It will weaken their composure and drive them mad. That is when I will arrive.”
Nova casually said, “It will take time. Without my full power, my reach is limited. Perhaps I should take the mercenaries with me.”
“Yes. Bring them all. I want this done quickly. Then, line my path to the portal with the mercenaries so that I have a royal procession when I return.”
“As you wish.” He answered her and then asked, “You will bring the other beasts when you arrive?”
“No, only their shadows. I will absorb the four beasts’ power to become what I was meant to be, a goddess among insects. I will destroy the heroes and walk triumphant into The Great Divide, and I will finally have revenge.” She stood and walked over to him, placing a finger on his chest. “If you are truly devoted to me, then this will be But, if the honorable Director Nova is still in there, he will not be able to do this. I will still arrive, and I will still be triumphant. However, your blood will mix with theirs in the snow. Do not believe it will end any other way. So, prove your love, or prove your treasonous heart, you have no other choices.”
He took her hand and kissed the back of it, then looked her in the eye with a sultry expression. “It will be done.”
***
“Are you sure this will work?” Arx asked as he stood on the side of a BADGE boat in the ocean.
EB finished creating a rather large, colorful egg next to many others. “It will work perfectly. These eggs are enchanted to hold the extra oxygen tanks. So, when the heroes get down there who can survive the extreme pressures, they will have extra oxygen in case of an emergency. I made this egg shell once before. I used it to surround several parts of a nuclear facility that was about to blow. I mean, it was a total wreck. Shoddy workmanship. But, the cold war was a time of bad ideas. I saved half of the world, but got no credit. It did inspire me to make the first true everlasting gobstopper. Don’t believe that dumb movie. I made it first, and it worked. But, then I realized it was a bad idea. Candy that never goes away. REALLY bad for business. And... sorry, rambling again.” He shut up at the look on Justin’s face.
Justin walked over with several heroes. “Thanks for your help, EB. Grimlock, Gravitia, get them down there. We start phase one of this operation now.”
A woman in a purple outfit with a special mask for diving on her face walked around the eggs and touched them. Each shimmered with purple light for a moment, and the boat suddenly tilted to the side. “Better get ‘em in the wata!” She said with a thick Bronx accent.
Grimlock, a burly ten foot tall hero, grabbed up one and pitched it in the water at a special buoy marker. It splashed in and instantly sank. He did this to each of them.
Justin watched the last go down and he turned to the team of heroes gathered on the deck. Some of them had diving masks and oxygen tanks hooked up, while others had scales and appeared to be part fish.
“This mission is crucial. You have to find whatever is down there as soon as possible. You know the risks. Each will be touched by Gravitia and will be able to withstand the intense pressures. Don’t linger, her power only lasts three hours. You get two. Go down, scan with instruments and your senses. Find what you can and return. Two hours. This is the Mariana Trench, not a playground. Go!”
They agreed and went straight to work.
Justin looked at Arx. “Thank you for bringing in your water rescue team. They’re the best suited for this.”
“Most aren’t actual superheroes who fight crime. But they’re damn good at what they do. I hope they find what Nova left for us.”
Justin watched the team dive in. “That is assuming this is a real lead and not just a diversion.”
Mayor Messenger walked through the pristine streets of New Meta City. Homes and businesses lined the roads, with people happily going about their daily lives. A man walked by with a large tank attached to his back with a mask over his face. He wouldn’t survive without a constant supply of toxic gasses, a result of his morphon mutations. However, here he had the chance to thrive without worry. Other equally challenged individuals walked around, who held a smile on their faces and a chipper gait, even with the odds against them.
“Morning, Angelica.” The Mayor walked into the Observation and Control center of New Meta City. Another woman sat in a half tank of water as she worked the computers.
“You seem in a good mood today.” Angelica swished around in her water as she moved between several control stations.
Mayor Messenger looked out the window that oversaw the city below. “This place always makes me happy. A pleasant walk really cheers me up.”
“Looks like it. I might have my boyfriend take me for a stroll today.” She leaned back in the tank and rested her arms on the sides.
“That’s right, Micheal should be by later. He’s done with his work on the roof of the new church on North Street. Why don’t you. . .” A beeping, which no one wanted to hear in this city, alerted her.
Angelica quickly accessed the External Alert System. “EAS is showing several incoming vessels.”
Mayor Messenger looked at the radar and frowned, “Five at once? BADGE never sends that much supplies to us at a single time.”
“Could they be heroes coming in to challenge the Battle Arena inside that portal?”
Messenger checked the new video feed from the portal that led to the Great Divide. “I don’t know. There has been little activity there since the Midgard attack. Everyone is busy cleaning up.”
“Could be done with cleaning up.”
“Only one way to figure this out. Contact the ships and get their clearance. While you’re at it, tell the Security Minister to activate our defenses.” She saw that look on Angelica’s face. “I’m not taking any chances.”
Angelica sent the communications and then gestured to the main comm screen. “You’re live.”
“This is Mayor Messenger of New Meta City. What is your objective in our space?” She waited but only found silence. “I repeat, this is New Meta City. If you do not declare your intentions, we will fire upon you. This airspace is internationally recognized and protected by sophisticated defense systems.” Still silence.
Angelica said, “Minister Po has the security systems online.”
Mayor Messenger huffed, “We just had them installed and haven’t even tested them yet. Hell, I never wanted this place armed like this. Tell him to get them charged and take aim. But hold his fire until I say.”
“Got it.” Angelica quickly typed her message.
Mayor Messenger looked at her screen, which changed from red dots on a computer map to a live feed from cameras. Five armed aircraft were flying over the ocean toward them. “Those look like troop transports, but I don’t see any markings.”
Angelica changed the view at a new angle. “I have something. Look at this!”
Both gasped when the peeled remnants of markings appeared. They read, ‘World Corps’.
“World Corps! Lady Echidna stole those! Red Alert, tell Minister Po to open fire as soon as they are in range! Activate all defense systems and send an emergency distress call to BADGE.”
The red lights and loud sirens filled the inner dome of New Meta City. The peaceful citizens scrambled to designated shelters while security officers rushed through the streets with guns in their hands. Barricades made of the strongest metals on earth rose in the streets to prevent direct assault. The guards took up positions behind the barriers and readied for the attack.
The city thundered with an explosion as something hit the defense barrier outside. Bright red beams of light crashed into the defenses from afar. The metal dome took the blasts, but an explosion echoed from the eastern side as one of their new turrets exploded.
Mayor Messenger watched while the incoming aircraft bombarded them with weapons’ fire. Their new turrets returned fire, but the aircraft dodged the attacks.
“All citizens are sheltered!” Angelica reported.
“Good. Minister Po! Continue to return fire. Take them down!”
The turrets continued to blast the incoming ships. Several hits made it, but the enemy was durable and continued their approach. Finally, one blast sheared off a wing from the side of the craft and it spun out of control and crashed into the snow, plowing a long line toward the city.
“That’s one!” Angelica called out in glee.
Mayor Messenger said, “yes, but four more are behind it and they are almost on us. Get me Justin at BADGE!”
***
Seven miles below the surface of the ocean, five heroes swam the depths. Each had a glow around them, which indicated the power of Gravitia keeping them down here. A man walked along the bottom, his body as black as obsidian. He picked up rocks and moved them, swished aside several strange creatures, and dug his heels through the sand as he searched.
A thick blob of water that was opaque moved by him. It gained color as she took on a human form. She pointed up and then pointed at her wrist like there was a watch on it. He nodded in agreement, but continued looking.
Another woman came walking by with two large tanks in her oversized arms. She planted them in the sand and then took a tube off one and breathed in hard. The obsidian man took a breath from the other. He pointed down and frowned, a question in his eyes. She shook her head with her eyes closed. The answer to his question.
Suddenly, they all saw a glinting white light in the distance. In this dark world, it was a wild sight. They left the tanks to swim toward it.
They found a woman who had transformed into a mermaid. She held a box in her hands. Inside was a long object that emitted a terrific glow. She pulled it out and revealed that it was some kind of scroll case made of a solid white material with gold scrollwork all over it. She pointed to the inside of the lid of the box, which had a symbol on it that few had ever seen. No one around her seemed to understand it. However, this find was far better than anything else they had come across. With a general agreement among them, they all began the arduous process of ascending.
On the deck of the BADGE sea vessel, Arx walked around while looking at his tablet and holding his ear piece. He ran this operation as he did any ATLAS situation. He kept his eyes and ears ready for anything so he could give out commands.
“Alright, mark your positions and return to the ship. You’ve been down long enough.” He marked his map and then waited while he heard something else through his earpiece. “Good. That should cover sector four. I will mark this. Get up here and rest up for next redeployment ASAP, thanks.”
Justin joined him. “Anything?”
Arx gave a comforting smile. “Not yet. But the trench is huge. There is a lot of ground to cover. The coordinates we got were the exact center of the trench, which we have checked over and over. I suspect we were just directed here. If there is something down there, my people will find it.”
“I hope so.”
Arx opened his mouth, but then quickly clicked the side of his ear. “What was that Shelly? Are you sure? Good. Get it up here.”
“What is it?” Justin was quick to ask.
Arx smiled. “They think they found something. But they were at the deepest point. It will take some time for them to get up here safely.”
“Good.” Justin stood as though he were ready to meet them right now.
“Sir, it will take several hours to make the ascent. You haven’t slept for too long. Get some rest. I’ll let you know when they arrive.”
Justin almost argued with that, but then recalled how often he had this very argument with Nova during tense situations. “Fine. A good nap and I’ll be out here. Don’t hesitate to wake me if... oof!”
EB slammed into Justin while he held a tablet in his paws. “JUSTIN, JUSTIN! WE GOT TROUBLE!”
Justin rubbed his stomach. “How many times have I told you not to run around like that?”
“We got a distress call.”
“From who?”
EB held up the tablet. “Dunno. The system went online and then just shut off. Not enough to trace. It’s a BADGE signal.”
Justin looked at the tiny bit of data. “This is bad. This is the max alert signal, but it could be from any of the world leaders who have our communication line, the station, or even New Meta City. Get in touch with the station, make sure it wasn’t them. Then tell them to contact all the known sources and find out who this is. Move!”
EB gave him a little salute. “On it, boss.” And zipped away.
Nova stood in the middle of the deck filled with the finely dressed mercs devoted to Lady Echidna. The ship shook and swerved as it continued the air assault on New Meta Citi’s outer defenses.
“We’ve taken out all but two of their turrets,” the gunner called back as he continued firing.
Nova calmly watched the window in front of the pilot. “I want all the turrets down before we land. Keep firing.”
Another man at the controls said, “Sir, BADGE is attempting to contact the city.”
“We took out the city’s communications array?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good.” Nova walked over to a computer on the wall and held a bar next to it so he could stabilize himself during this air combat. He worked the controls with one hand and redirected the comm signal to them. He replied to BADGE’s request for details, “All is well. Severe arctic storm has damaged our comm system. Will repair soon. All is clear.” With that signal sent, BADGE would assume everything was fine. At least long enough for him to do his job.
“Sir, the last of their turrets is down.”
“Good, take us in for a landing. Tell all the mercenaries to report to sector alpha. We’ll storm the front gate.” Nova tightened his black gloves and straightened his fine suit.
"Sir, should we attack head-on?" asked the soldier.
Nova smiled, “They are no threat to us. These people are weak and truly powerless. It’ll be a one-sided conflict. Just be ready to do as I say. Do not advance until I give the command. Is that understood?”
“Yes, sir.” The merc commander saluted and then barked orders at the others, who filed out the back once the ship nestled into the snow.
Nova calmly walked out, following them. He took no weapon with him, just his fine tailored outfit and a steely gaze in his one good eye.
***
A cool, dark night sky rested in the heaves, the vast ocean of stars reflecting in the waters of the Pacific. Justin stood on the calm deck and observed the incredible view. He lived in the stars on the station, yet seeing them from this place was unspeakably beautiful.
EB just zipped up next to him and was bouncing back and forth on his heels. “Whatcha thinking about?”
Justin let the gentle roll of the ship in the mild currents relax him. “Just how small I truly am. There are so many stars, so many planets. I’m trusted with such responsibility that some days it seems too much to handle. Yet, in the grand scheme of things, I’m nothing.”
“You are far more than nothing,” EB said.
Justin said, “They say there are more stars in all the galaxies than atoms in me. How can I think of myself as anything but a speck on the surface of everything?”
“It was once said that there are a hundred billion galaxies, and in those galaxies, a hundred billion planets capable of sustaining life. That would mean there are potentially trillions upon trillions of living beings out there staring at these stars from all directions. Yet, among all of those trillions upon trillions, there is only one Agent Justin of BADGE. It isn’t how big and powerful you are, it’s that you exist for a reason.”
Justin slowly looked down at the cheerful little bunny. “Where on God’s green Earth did you come up with that wisdom?”
“Someone once told me the same thing. At the end of days, when my homeworld fell to Legion, only a few of us survived. I wanted to die. I wanted to stay there and never leave, dead among the many of my kind who perished. A great leader of our kind begged the survivors to come with him and find a place to live and help, so that one day we might aid this galaxy in ridding itself of Legion. I said I was too small, yet he reminded me that as long as I breathed, I still had a purpose worthy enough for the universe to give me another day. After seven hundred years here, I have had a lot of days to help and I got to watch Legion fall and have helped stop many, many other big bad guys. We all have a purpose. It isn’t about us, it’s about how we affect others.”
“I guess I need to remember that. It has been hard without Nova to guide us. I feel so much smaller now than I did while in his presence.”
EB said, “You’re bigger without him, because you’ve risen to the occasion.”
“Thanks. And this might be the first real, serious conversation we’ve ever had. Where is this coming from?”
EB grinned, “I have my moments. Plus, I haven’t had any coffee for like three days. We ran out on the ship. And. . . what is that?”
They both looked out as a light appeared in the depths of the ocean, slowly rising to the surface. Finally, the team with the small box appeared.
“It’s the third team. I think they have something for us.” Justin got to the edge and lowered a ladder into the waters. He pressed a button on his wrist comm. “We need assistance on deck with team arrival.”
The four heroes climbed the ladder, the first bringing the box with him. The dark, obsidian man got onto the deck and his skin slowly changed from shiny stone colored glass to a normal dark complexion consistent with his Nigerian heritage.
“We found something. Aqua thinks it’s connected to Nova,” Obsidian said.
A woman shaped blob of water walked across the deck and slowly formed back into a person. She had on a small bikini and nothing else. EB smiled at her as she passed him.
“It’s an odd thing to have down that far. It survived such incredible pressures. I can’t imagine it isn’t important.”
The mermaid woman swam toward the ship. flipped up into the air, transformed into a bird, circled for a moment, and landed. She took the form of a human again. “There is a marking on the inside.”
EB hopped over, “Lemme see!”
Justin opened the box and saw the scroll inside. The light in the box was coming from the scroll, which was dazzling. “What is this?”
“I don’t know,” Obsidian answered. “We haven’t opened it yet.”
“That’s Nova’s!” EB called out.
Justin held out the scroll. “You’ve seen this before?”
“No, not that! THIS!” EB jumped up and pointed at the lid.
Justin opened it further, revealing the mark on the inside of the lid. “I’ve seen this before?”
EB said, “Yeah, in every place Nova worked over the centuries, he left that mark. It was his symbol, his way of letting people know he was there. That’s gotta be what he wanted us to find.”
“A. . . scroll? I expected something more. A weapon, or another one of these stones.”
EB hopped around Justin in a continuous circle. “Don’t keep us in suspense. OPEN IT!”
Justin held the end of the scroll and pulled as hard as he could. “I can’t get it open.”
Aqua held her hand out. “Let me try.” She held the scroll case and turned one hand back into water. She wrapped the liquid around the end and did everything she could to open it. After a few moments, she said, “I can’t budge it.”
Obsidian said, “If Aqua can’t open it, no one here can. She’s the strongest of us. Should we wake someone else?”
EB hopped up and nabbed the scroll and looked it over. “Yup. It’s magically sealed. I might be able to open it.”
Justin reached down and took the case back. “Not here. We need to get to the station. This has to be what Nova wanted us to find, and I want to be in a more secure location when we open it. Obviously, Nova sealed it with precision for a reason. I just hope it has the answers we need at this time.”
Nova stood in the snows of Antarctica, looking at the impressive domed New Meta City. A powerful energy shield flickered over it and the metal plating system was fully intact and energized. They were at the top of their defenses. Smoke billowed out of the former turrets that were all destroyed, as well as the communication tower that was now scattered across the ice planes.
The commander of the mercs approached, “Sir, we are showing the energy defenses of New Meta City are currently over-charged. It will take much stronger firepower to disable them. We need to contact Lady Echidna and ask her for help.”
Nova let no emotion slip out of his face as he spent time looking at the city before him. Then he turned and said, “We don’t need her. I’m fully capable of taking this down.”
The commander did not show any confidence in Nova’s statement. “Still, I will contact Lady Echidna about the situation.”
Nova turned on him so suddenly the man nearly fell over. With a swift motion, Nova had the comm unit in his hand and clicked it off. “You will take my orders.”
“Yes, sir.”
Nova dropped the comm unit in the snow and held out his hand. A hilt appeared in his palm and from it grew a strange and beautiful sword that was far larger than most people could hold in one hand. On it flickered energy. “Tell the others to gather and get ready for what comes next.”
“Yes, sir.” The commander turned and gave signals with his hand, leading the others to gather quickly and stand in uniform lines, weapons at the ready. He finished his orders by saying, “The people under this dome are all morphonic in nature, but have not been inoculated against the Anti-Morphon Guns. We will vaporize them on contact. Focus on your firepower, not knives or fists. I want every last man, woman, and child turned to dust as soon as that dome comes down. Is that understood?”
A resounding voice bellowed in unison, “Yes, commander!”
Nova turned and gave the city one last look as he held his sword, ready for the strike.
***
Justin held the box with the scroll inside as he and EB stood on the deck of the BADGE naval vessel. Arx had command and was directing his people while they resurfaced from their mission. A blue portal opened wide and became solid like glass, with the other side showing the Operations center of the station. Strange Quark, holding a martini, waved them through.
Justin and EB stepped through, traveling a great distance in a moment. Both paused and became dizzy. Chase caught Justin while EB flopped on the ground.
EB muttered, “I hate that portaling of yours, Quark. It always messes with my head.”
Quark leaned over and looked at the small bunny. “It works.”
“Yeah, but I always feel like I’m gonna lose my carrots.” He got up and cleared his throat. “But it goes away quickly.”
Gar, standing in the front of the room, asked, “Is that it?”
Justin held up the box. “Yes. Right here. Let’s get into the conference room.”
Everyone gathered in the main meeting room on Level One of the station. Torrik was already inside chatting with Dr. Henderson. Justin walked in and set the box in the middle of the table.
“Glad you could make it.” Justin looked at Torrik.
The Satyr said, “I finished helping replenish the lands for the herders. I could do more. But, I think the land will do fine on its own now. Nature is best left to its own devices.”
Dr. Henderson asked, “Is that what Nova wanted us to find?”
Justin said, “We think so. EB recognizes a symbol on the inside belonging to Nova.”
Chase asked, “What is it?”
Justin opened it and took out the marble scroll case and set it on the table. “This. And, I cannot open it.”
Dr. Henderson punched a few keys on the computer in the room. “Sensors show incredible amounts of arcane energy infused in that. I don’t like these levels. It could be some kind of destructive device.”
EB said, “I don’t think so. Nova wanted us to find this, and he planted it a reeeeealy long time ago. Back before the bitc....uh....Lady Echidna messed him up.”
Gar asked, “What would he hide inside that?”
Justin said, “I don’t know. Torrik, if this is magical, can you open it?”
Torrik put a hand over the scroll case and closed his eyes. “I don’t know. This is old and powerful magic. I haven’t felt anything like this before. I’m a nature mage, not a true wizard. This is advanced magic.”
“Lemme try.” EB hopped up on the table.
“You?” Torrik almost laughed.
EB gave Torrik a smug look. “I’m a lot more than a cute little bunny. Now, stand back and watch.” He put his paws out and sensed the magic. “This is covered in extremely powerful magic. This is like really, really good stuff. So pure. Wow, it kinda feels like Nova. You know, he has this feeling about him that just exudes power. . . and a slightly musty pine scent. I wonder what aftershave he uses. Or does he just smell like a pine forest in the distance? I miss that smell. Wow, that sounded kinda weird. . . “
“EB, focus!” Justin slapped the table.
EB grinned sheepishly. “Sorry. So, okay, lemme see.” He ran his paw over the surface several times and then said something in his magical tongue. Finally, he pulled on the side and the top came off as the light emanating from it died down. “There ya go.”
“How did you do that?” Torrik asked in genuine astonishment.
EB smiled brightly, “Toldja, I’m more than I appear.”
Justin carefully pulled out a rolled up parchment made of thick paper with a gold gilded edge. The silence in the group was palpable. He carefully placed it on the table and unrolled it. A shaking hand betrayed his nervousness right now. As he opened the scroll, the lettering on it appeared and it was a type of ancient hieroglyphic. The symbols beamed a golden hue for a moment and then rearranged themselves.
“What’s happening?” Gar asked.
Torrik said, “That is a language spell. The spell was written in a way that it would translate itself for whoever opened it. This is often used when the author doesn’t expect their writing to be read for a very long time, so long the reader couldn’t possibly translate it on their own.”
Chase asked Justin, “What’s it say?”
Justin was silent as the color drained from his face. His hand holding it open trembled even more. His eyes were glued to the text.
EB quietly asked, “Justin, is it that bad?”
Justin looked up, terror in his eyes. He said nothing, merely turned it around so they could read the text.
Gar read it aloud, “Greetings to whoever you are, I am sorry it has come to this. I am known as Nova. Whatever language that is that you are reading this, the word is New. I was called by another name long ago, but betrayed a sacred oath and split my soul. I sacrificed much for the wisdom to contend against Lady Echidna so that I could spend my eternity in this realm making up for helping her rise to power. However, if you are reading this, then time is almost up for this world and possibly this universe. I write this to warn you to be ready for what comes after this life. The end of time is at hand. The only reason to give up on hope is if Lady Echidna has returned and has obtained all four powers. With them, she will bring the end of days and I will not be able to stop her. My last wish would be to see my old friend Midgard one last time.”
There was a long silence in the room as the words sank in. Fear permeated the air, and hopelessness settled on them.
EB broke the moment by saying, “Now I’m really insulted. I am his BFF, not that snake.”
Justin exploded, “DID YOU NOT JUST LISTEN TO NOVA’S WORDS! IT’S THE F@#%$*& END OF THE WORLD!”
EB’s mouth hung open, possibly at Justin unleashing foul language, but mostly because the truth truly hit him. He meekly whispered, “But it can’t be. Nova has always protected this world from the end.”
Chase reached over and ran her hand over EB’s head, “He isn’t with us. . . not anymore.”
***
Deep in the south, the icy winds blew hard as the mercs waited on their leader to direct them to an easy victory. For a brief moment, Nova looked upward into the sky as though he saw something. However, he returned his gaze to the city before him.
Nova stood with his back to his legion, his sword held out to the side as his body grew brighter and brighter. Wings appeared on his back and his clothing changed. The surrounding winds shifted and swirled, controlled by the awesome power he tapped into.
With one last look up, Nova gave a little smile finally as he observed the dome before him. “This is for you, my lady.”
A silent despair hung in the air of the BADGE conference room. Chase had held the scroll, but her powers didn’t work on it or the box. Torrik thoroughly examined it and determined it was too powerful to be a fake.
Gar asked, “What do we do, Justin? This can’t be the end of the world.”
Justin said, “I don’t know. I’m barely keeping BADGE together through all this. It may be beyond our ability to fight. We don’t even have Midgard to stand up against what she throws at us next.”
Chase said, “I could contact my father. He is powerful and has known Nova for a long time.”
Justin said, “Yes, try Santa. But I am not sure he can do anything about this.”
Dr. Henderson said, “Is this truly the end?”
“It might be. Lady Echidna has all four powers, the three stones and Midgard. I don’t see how we can stop her now. Worst of all, she also has Nova on her side. Even if a small part of him is desperately trying to aid us, I think it’s too late. I think when he wrote this he knew that it would be his last words to the world.”
Torrik quietly said, “I am sorry. I will return to my world and gather forces. Even if it is hopeless, we will make a stand at the Great Divide.”
Gar said, “Gather the heroes. They too would rather go down fighting.”
“No! We will not go down fighting! I won’t give up! I refuse to give up!” EB yelled.
Chase held his back. “Nova has given up. There is little chance.”
EB slapped her hand away and hopped to the middle of the table. He pointed at everyone angrily, “Nova is many things, but he never gives up. That man has faced trials that you have never even imagined. We fought Jinn, TWICE! We rewound time to fix this planet after the first battle. Drocha tried to screw up time itself and we stopped him with TWO Nova. This is not the end, it can’t be and I am ashamed of all of you. . . cept maybe Torrik. . . Nova is our friend and also one of the most brilliant minds this world has ever known. He wouldn’t just leave us an ‘I give up’ letter in the bottom of the deepest trench on Earth. How stupid are you people? Nova left this as a clue and we are sitting around acting like it’s all over!" He shocked the room when he clapped his paws together and a flash of magic grabbed Justin, yanked him halfway across the table and EB now held Justin by an ear. With the angriest face he could muster, EB growled in his ear. “BADGE never gives up on their own, especially on the man who has saved your asses more times than all the heroes on this planet COMBINED!”
After being released, Justin stood up on his feet. He was honestly scared right now. EB never got this mad. “What do you think he hid in this letter?”
EB walked over on the table and looked down at it. “Something is just not right. First, what does he mean about dividing his soul? Also, why did he call Midgard his old friend? Why single our Midgard? They were hardly friendly toward each other.”
Chase said, “This is true. Back during the Fenrir incident, I got to witness the time Nova left the Eye of Fenrir with Midgard. They weren’t friends, more like two people with a mutual interest.”
A warning siren blared, followed by the voice of Strange Quark, “Guys, better get in here. We have something happening near New Meta City.”
Justin hurried out of the room, followed by the others. “I thought we got an all-clear from them.”
Quark, in the command position, pointed at the screen. “Well, it’s not ‘all clear’ now. We have weapons fire and one hell of an energy spike. I have never seen this kind of arcane energy before.”
Chase rushed over to a computer, “Activating the optical sensors, focusing on New Meta City.”
The screen changed from charts and readings to a video feed produced by the station’s observation system. It quickly zoomed down to view the area of New Meta City in Antarctica. The massive domed city was a circle to them from above. A bright white light moved quickly around black dots that fired red beams at it. Four landing craft sat on the ice shelf near them.
“What is that?” Torrik asked.
Quark looked at a sensor reading. “I don’t know. But whatever that bright dot is, it is emitting a power signature that is off our charts.”
Justin said, “Quark, get Gar, Chase, and Torrik down there right now.”
“Right, hold your stomachs!” Quark waved his hand. He vanished, no one else did. He suddenly reappeared and staggered, “What the?” He zapped away again and then reappeared. “Okay, now this is making me dizzy.”
EB said, “Lemme try.” He clapped his paws and vanished, but then reappeared. “Oh, that hurt my head.”
Quark said, “I don’t know how, but that energy signature down there is interfering with my powers.”
Dr. Henderson gasped, “What is that? Blood?”
They saw the snowy white ground near the battle quickly turning red as the black dots scattered across the ground. The bright white light stood in place for a second among the gore and then a wave of light came from it and the four landed craft all exploded.
“Can we get a closer image?” Justin asked.
Robot 10915 answered, “Zooming in, heightening resolution. Maximum imaging on screen.”
They now could see the dismembered bodies of hundreds of soldiers littering the ground, their blood soaking through the snow. The burning wrecks of their ships billowing smoke into the sky. A figure walked away, clad in bright gold and white light. All they could see were wings on his back for a moment, but that faded as the light diminished. Soon, this person merely walked away into the ice fields.
“Who is that?” Torrik asked.
Justin said, “I don’t know.”
“I do.” Chase answered. “I saw that once before, during the fight with Fenrir. When Midgard attacked Nova. He started beaming a bright light. I could hardly look at him, but what tiny glimpse I got was... that. I couldn’t believe what I saw. It looked like some kind of warrior angel.”
“What are you saying?” Justin asked.
A deeper voice answered, “She is saying that she saw Nova’s true form.”
Santa Claus walked out from the lift.
Chase ran over to him. “Father! What are you doing here?”
He hugged her, a sorrowful look on his face. “My dear, I’ve been waiting for this day for a long time. I have dreaded it, but knew it would eventually come to pass.”
Justin asked, “What is it, sir? What do you know?”
“A secret I promised to keep to a man I trusted more than anyone else. A secret that I was only allowed to know because this day would come. Nova is not what you think he is. However, if he is embracing his true form, then the darkest days are upon us. Nova is an Arcblade.”
“I know that,” Torrik said.
Santa nodded. “However, do you know what an Arcblade is?”
“Not really.”
People know them as archangels. His return to his true form is a harbinger of the end of time.”
EB said, “Then, he is on our side! We have a chance!”
“No.” Santa said, “He is incomplete, his power split. This is how she can control him. And how she will defeat him. He doesn’t even fully understand what he is right now.”
***
Lady Echidna stood in the middle of her temple, patiently waiting for news from Nova. The only sound in the room was the whimpering of Midgard in the corner.
With a quick turn, she looked back in horror. “What is this? You unfaithful lover!”
There was a moment of serious confusion and rage in her before she calmed down. “This is how it shall be, then it shall be. Midgard, my precious pet, I am afraid it is time.”
She walked up behind Midgard and reached down, touching his shoulder. He quivered at her hand, but then lurched back and tensed up. His eyes were wide and his mouth open, but soon both closed as the color in him drained. His body slumped over and he fell in a dead heap on the stone floor.
Looking at her gloved hand, she whispered, “I had no choice. I really did enjoy watching you work.”
With that pitiful apology uttered, she strode into the middle of the room and held out her arms. “To me, my precious pets. Give me all that I gave you. Surge in me the power I deserve. The end of days is upon us and I will bring the sun to ruin, the stars shall fall, and this world will mire in darkness as I reclaim my rightful rule in Yohan.” The three eyes exploded and the power from them flooded her body.
NightShadow flew so hard that his body became surrounded by a white haze as he broke the sound barrier several times. He breached the Earth’s atmosphere and zoomed straight into space, passing the BADGE station and currently inactive Orbital Arena.
“This is bad, this is really bad.” He kept say this to himself as he knew the signs were only getting worse.
Soon, he approached a dark hole in the space that flickered with purple tendrils of energy. He paused before it as he observed it fluctuating. Focusing his own powers, he held out his hands and took hold of the anomaly and attempted to seal it. Just then, the light from the sun flashed and then grew dimmer. At the same time, the hole in space expanded. NightShadow tumbled backward in space.
Stabilizing himself, NightShadow spent a moment watching the sun. The light from it fading.
“This is not possible.” He turned and flew hard toward the station.
***
Justin watched the screen where ten news casts were displaying the information as panicked people raged in the streets.
“What is happening? I want information. Sensors, scan the sun!” He pointed at a robot.
“Scan initiating,” the robot announced.
Justin turned back to others, “Chase, take Torrik, Gar, and EB down to the surface. Get to New Meta City and follow Nova. I want you to get to him, talk to him.”
“Don’t try,” Santa said.
Justin glared at him. “We have to try something. He must be reasonable right now. Be able to give us answers.”
Strange Quark said, “Santa is right. What I sense down there is powerful. Something is protecting all of that area. We can’t get close. Portal or shuttle, nothing is going to get near Nova right now.”
Chase said, “That leaves everyone in New Meta City in danger, and we can’t even get in touch with them or send help.”
EB asked, “What is Nova doing?”
Santa answered, “The only reason I can fathom is that he means to fight her. His mind rages for vengeance, fueled by the remaining sense of honor. Something in him knows this is the end of the world. The sad part is that he probably doesn’t even know why. His soul is torn in two and without the other half, he cannot even remember why he fought her before and why he hates her so much now.”
NightShadow appeared in Operations. He staggered for a second and held the side of a console. “I tried. . . I couldn’t stop it.”
“NightShadow?” Justin turned with a shock at the sudden appearance of the hero.
NightShadow said, “I sensed the hole in space changing, growing. I flew as fast as I could to stop it, to contend against it. But it resisted me. And the sun. . . “
“We know about the sun,” Chase said.
EB added, “It’s all over the news. People are really going nuts over the darkening of the sun. Is something covering it?”
NightShadow shook his head. “No. It’s being absorbed by the void. Light in this area is slowly draining into the void. Something is tapping it. There is a power connected to it that is indescribable. I can sense it, but I cannot explain it other than one word, horror.”
Torrik whispered, “The sun is being eaten.”
NightShadow mused, “That’s one way to put it.”
“No, you don’t understand. Oh, by the name of Merlin! The clues were all there!” He ran back toward the meeting room.
***
Lady Echidna’s body flooded with the power of the beasts of her craftsmanship. She exuded a dark shadow and purple energy that ripped out and tore apart the temple dedicated to her. With a snap of her head, she looked up and the stone ceiling exploded into the sky. Flying out of the new opening, she flew quickly across the land toward the south.
Behind her, erupting from within the temple, was a giant Fenrir shadow monster that stomped across the world slowly in the same direction. Behind Fenrir came a massive monster of a sea serpent with a massive mouth filled with razor teeth. It slithered behind Fenrir in the same direction. Behind this Charybdis appeared a creature like a sea monster and dragon combined with five heads. It had enormous wings that it used to take flight and soar southward.
Lady Echidna moved much quicker than her children and in her wake, the darkness spread, shadow spilling across the earth. The sun above grew dimmer. The normally bright white light of day had diminished into a sick yellow that was turning orange.
***
Citizens in New York City rushed around in panic as the day turned to a sick night with the sun slowly going out.
“It is the end of days! Judgment is coming!” A man cried out from a street corner as he tried to gather attention from the terrified masses.
Several police cars stopped and eight officers jumped out and tried to calm down the people.
A superhero league landed nearby and moved in to help.
“Oh, good! BADGE is here,” an officer said.
Furious Squirrel ran over to him, “We are here to help with. . . “
People screamed even harder as a dark fog rolled through the streets. It was black as night and moved like fire smoke. Buildings were being consumed, cars wrecked when they lost sight, and people ran as quickly as they could to get away from the dark fog that rolled through the streets.
“What the hell is that?!” the officer yelled as he pulled out his gun.
Furious and his other league mates readied their own weapons. From within the fog formed misty creatures. Wolves, trolls, imps, and other demons. All made of this smoke with beaming red eyes.
“RUN!” Furious yelled at the citizens and then shot at an approaching wolf, which exploded in a puff of smoke.
The people tried to run, but the fog was too quick. As soon as it surrounded them they lost all their focus and gained silly smiles. They danced about with abandon like they had just joined a party and were in the throes of a grand ballroom dance. The heroes were unaffected, but set upon by the strange shadow beasts.
***
Nova stood before the stable portal between worlds. On the other side was the long walk across The Great Divide that parted the worlds. Heroes were coming here to challenge the ferocious beasts within, so to hone their skills. But he could never step foot in there unless he wished to suffer terribly.
“Why?” He whispered to himself.
Since Lady Echidna had awakened his mind to what it was before, to the darkness he once embraced, a part of him had flashes of memory. He recalled betraying her, but that part of him was small. A power in him, planted in his soul, forced him to love her, to obey her. Yet, apart from her, he had enough willpower to fight her machinations. But he still couldn’t remember why.
“What am I?” He asked.
“My lover, my friend, the reason to survive while in my dark exile.” Lady Echidna’s voice spoke behind him.
He did not turn to look at her, for fear he would fall into her eyes again and obey without question. “What did we do? This world was yours to control, yet I stopped you. Didn’t I?”
The harsh winds of Antarctica blustered around them off the icy planes as she patiently concocted her next statement. Finally, she said, “You betrayed me on the day of triumph. You became another man so that you would hope to repent in your soul and cleanse yourself of the darkness I spread. I, on the other hand, embraced that darkness in my soul and nurtured it. Fed it with every evil intention and greedy thought. One must embrace true darkness in order to control this universe.
“I can’t accept that. Goodness is not weak. Honor is not foolishness.”
“Oh, but it is.” She said, “This universe is broken, stained by the power of sin. By embracing that power, we could literally control everything. I have the power now to rip this world apart. But, to truly control everything, to rein unchallenged for eternity, we need to go to Yohan. Find the others. Rip out their hearts and feed upon them as I have feasted upon the creatures I created. Once harnessed, all will be clear.”
She waited for him to answer her. But he didn’t.
“Do you realize why I waited these three months? I was not just letting the people grow more nervous with each passing day, I was studying you and your friend. Midgard betrayed me once, as did you. I cannot afford to lose this time. I had to know. Part of me believed you passed the tests, you were obedient to me. Yet, you betrayed me again. But I will still give you one last chance. We can harness Yohan's immense power to become the gods we were always destined to be. Nothing will ever challenge us again. Don't you understand! I loved you more than any other in all my considerable life. I am willing to share ultimate power with you if you only show me you still love me!” Her tone had grown into a sorrowful plea that displayed the shred of emotion in her other than wickedness, true love.
Nova slowly turned around and looked at her. “I do remember one thing from before.”
“What is that?”
“I did love you. I once felt for you in a way I have never before, or since, for any other person. But, you proved to me that you love evil far more than anything else, including me. I did not embrace the darkness, I embraced you because I wanted to believe there was a chance you would return to the light. In that embrace, you planted darkness within me and I fought it them and I will fight it now. I will never succumb to the darkness you harbor as long as I live." He held out his hand so that his magnificent sword appeared.
Covered in shadow and bristling with energy, Lady Echidna rose in the air, “Then, I will kill you and take Yohan as my prize.” She launched herself at him.
He met her with his sword, the contact creating a wave of energy that cracked the ice-shelf for miles.
The dark red day shrouded the world in a deathly glare that sent people seeking shelter from whatever was happening.
Rutkowski and his gang ran into the streets. Cars stopped all over as people abandoned them.
“PEYTON!” Rutkowski called out.
Private Eye Peyton ran along with the surrounding police. “Not now, Rutkowski, we have to get this under control.”
“I know! I’m here ta help.” Rutkowski sneered at him, “An I gotta an idea, but need yous to help.”
“What?” Peyton asked.
Rutkowski said, “Use our time powers. Ya know, freeze the city in a time bubble. It ain’t the best thing, but it might stop some of dis madness.”
“Everyone else will be frozen in time.” Peyton finally got it, “But they might be safe. Sure, let’s try it.”
The police chief said, “Peyton, are you gonna trust him?”
“Rutkowski is a no-good, thieving scoundrel, but he’s not a liar.”
“Thanks, I think. Now, get ready. We gotta do dis tagether.” Rutkowski held up his hands.
Peyton did the same. A wave of translucent energy expanded out from them and covered the city. Everyone and everything in time froze.
“Do you think that will work?” Peyton looked around, seeing birds mid-flight, people as statues, and some flying papers stopped in the air.
“It’ll have to work. Wait, what’s dat?” Rutkowski pointed.
A black fog rolled through town, unaffected by their frozen time. Beasts of shadow formed from within the mists.
"Aw, crap!" Rutkowski turned, but then the sight of the creatures freezing in time as they jumped out of the cloud they came from stopped him.
“What the hell is that?” Peyton looked at his BADGE comm from his coat pocket. “Holy Moses, there’s a black cloud covering half of North America, all of Europe, and is spreading fast.”
Rutkowski said, “We can’t freeze da whole world.”
Peyton looked up at the dimming sun, “Come on, BADGE, we need a miracle.”
***
Justin walked into the conference room with a tablet in his hand and Chase behind him. “Torrik, you had better have something good. The sun is almost out and a black fog is spreading across the planet.”
Torrik had several old books open with Nova’s letter in the middle. EB stood next to him on the table with Santa right behind him. Dr. Henderson sat in a chair nearby. The Satyr looked up with dread in his eyes. “Black fog?”
“Yes.” Justin frowned. “Do you know what this is?”
Torrik said, “Yes. Darkness. It consumed a whole continent in Yohan centuries ago. Shadow beasts form in it and attack those who are unaffected by its power.”
“What do you mean, power?”
Torrik said, “It seeps into the mind and drives people insane. Those who give in to its delusions will find safety from the beasts, but those who resist will face attacks. I suspect your heroes will be unaffected, as they have those strange morphons in them, which seems resistant.”
Justin put the tablet down. “The heroes are reporting beasts of all descriptions coming out of it. They are relentless.”
“It took centuries to quell the shadow war. And the beasts are still around in pockets in Yohan.”
“Then we need answers now. This world cannot lose its sun and fight a shadow war at the same time.”
Torrik actually smiled. “I do have an idea.”
EB hopped over to Justin. “This is so amazing, like totally mind-boggling. It was right in front of us all this time and we just didn’t see it. You gotta hear this.”
“Let him speak,” Chase said.
Torrik turned a book around with a painting of Norse deities. “When we studied your legends and myths to learn more about what Lady Echidna might do, I glanced over the myths about your Nordic legends, but dismissed them since we already saw Fenrir rise. However, I remembered the legend itself. It said that Fenrir would consume the sun in the end of days, or Ragnarok.”
Justin said, “But Fenrir isn’t around and the sun is just going dark.”
Santa said, “Often, myths and legends have a modicum of truth buried beneath artistic representation and fables. Listen to him, he has a good idea.”
Torrik said, “In talking with Santa and EB, I think we can pin down the period when Nova finally banished Lady Echidna. It was around your fourth century CE. In the Fifth century, legends arrived that spoke of a pantheon of gods, but had a lot to do with the end of days. They interpreted it as a religious lesson, but I think it was a warning and possibly a hidden message of how to avoid it. You see, the story tells of Hel, Fenrir, and Jormungandr. All three would play a pivotal role at the end of days. Hel, a goddess of death, who lived in a realm of perpetual darkness and held great disdain for mortals and gods alike. Sound like anyone you know?”
Chase said, “Lady Echidna. She was in the void all this time and she has absolutely no compassion for anyone but herself.”
Torrik said, “Then there’s Fenrir. His appearance after being bound would be the harbinger to the darkness to come, which would culminate in the consuming of the sun.”
Justin said, “The Eye of Fenrir was contained in that statue for centuries until released, and that’s when this all really started.”
Torrik said, “Finally, there comes Midgardsormr, or Jormungandr. Which he proudly called himself both names many times. He would fight Thor, the mightiest of heroes, and then fall. But then Thor would fall as well.”
EB said, “Midgard fought all the heroes of Earth and we won, but the darkness wasn’t stopped. It’s coming.”
"Recognize the face?" Santa asked, pointing to the image of Odin, a one-eyed king.
Chase said, “Wait, are you saying that Nova is Odin? I thought you just said he was an archangel.”
Torrik said, “We aren’t saying that Nova is a god of your Nordic people. I’m saying that he used the myths and legends to hide a prophecy in plain sight. Somehow, he knew exactly how this would play out, but he couldn’t let anyone know exactly until the right time. Otherwise, Lady Echidna, or Hel as he has written her, might change her path and all would be lost.”
Justin asked, “What about the other two, the Hydra and Charybdis?”
Torrik said, “The legend doesn’t include them, per se. However, it does reference that with Midgard’s appearance, the oceans would stir and great beasts would come. Both other monsters of legend are from the sea.”
Chase said, “This is all interesting, but how does it help? Everything you just said has come to pass, if this was a prophecy.”
Torrik smiled, “Because the last part of the legend was written in his letter. You see, he alluded to himself as Odin when he said he sacrificed to gain the wisdom to fight Lady Echidna. The legend says that Odin sacrificed his eye to gain wisdom. His letter also said he split himself, his soul.”
“His eye?” Chase asked.
Santa said, “Two years ago, as a special gift for Nova, I sent a hero on a quest to find a jewel. But, not just any jewel, a stone that was Nova’s eye. I knew he had lost it centuries ago, but I did not realize the significance of it.”
EB read the letter, “ ‘My last wish would be to see my old friend Midgard one last time.‘ This isn’t about his bestest friend. . . which EVERYONE knows is me. . . it’s him wanting to be reunited with his eye. And, for some reason, it has to do with Midgard. But we dunno why.”
Justin asked, “Where is this stone?”
Santa answered, “It was brought back up here and given to him. What Nova did with it after that, I don’t know. It isn’t in the BADGE vault. EB already checked the records.”
Gar’s voice blurted on the intercom, “JUSTIN! Get in here!”
Justin let out a heavy sigh. “What now?” He rushed out with the others.
They came into the Operations center to find the screen covered in images of the shadow enveloped cities. However, three large screens showed the monsters of Fenrir, the Hydra, and Charybdis, moving over the surface of the Earth.
“Report?”
Gar said, “They just showed up on sensors. They are taking up positions near Antarctica, protecting it. . . I think.” He pointed at a screen.
Justin looked at what was a snowy field with flashes of light blasting here and there as two things darted all over the place. “What is happening?”
Gar pointed at a robot and the image zoomed in as far as it would go. They saw a shadowy Lady Echidna attacking a brightly lit Nova.
“NOVA’S ON OUR SIDE! HE’S FIGHTING THAT SHE-DEVIL!” EB hopped around.
Torrik said, “He said he can’t defeat her, and I‘m inclined to believe that. She is powerful. In fact, she appears far more powerful than before. He won’t last long, and there is nothing there to stop her from walking into The Great Divide once she takes him down.”
Justin watched this battle for a moment and then commanded, “EB, Chase, Gar, search this station for that stone. I don’t care what you have to do, rip out walls, tear up the floor, find it! Robot 10915, send an all-alert. I want heroes heading for Antarctica at once!”
“But, sir,” Chase said, “nothing can get through to that area.”
Santa said, “I can bring that barrier down. With the help of Torrik, we can interrupt it.”
“Are you sure it’s safe?”
“Of course it’s not safe.” Santa said, “However, Nova trusted us with this prophecy and we must see it through, or this is truly the end of days. I, for one, will go out fighting.”
Torrik said, “I‘m a warrior and defender. I will not back down.”
EB hopped up and said, “For Nova, anything. BFF’s!”
“Good. Everyone you have your mission. Move.”
Torrik sat next to Santa in the sleigh as eight reindeer pulled them at top speed through the cold air over the ocean. As the evening approached, the sun descended, yet the sky was already filled with stars. On the other side of the horizon rose a blood colored moon, the light of the sun no longer reflecting a milky white on the lunar surface.
“This is an interesting way to travel.” Torrik felt the side of the exquisite sleigh.
Santa said, “Perks of being a seasonal figure.”
“Magic animals pulling it?”
Santa snapped the reins, and they moved a little faster. “Magical, yes. But, they are not animals. They are constructed out of magic.”
“They certainly can move.”
Santa pulled slightly, and they shifted their approach to the south pole. “Trust me, they can move faster than this. But I don’t want to hurt you.”
Torrik looked over the side. “I think you might want to risk it.”
Santa looked over the side and saw that shadowy mist crawling across the ocean’s surface. In the distance, moving through the clouds, were the giant figures of Fenrir, Charybdis, and the Hydra. He reached down and pulled a lever and then yelled, “YA!” He snapped the reins and the sleigh blasted off much quicker, approaching the sound barrier.
Torrik, holding on for dear life, yelled, “Wow! This is better than wind riding!” An invisible barrier that encapsulated the sleigh parted the surrounding clouds.
Santa yelled, “What is that shadow? I have felt nothing like it before.”
Torrik said, “As I said before, it is the essence of the darkest magic ever concocted. It spawns creatures of darkness that only want to kill.”
They reached the edge of Antarctica, the dome of New Meta City in the distance. Without warning, Santa yanked hard on the reins and the sleigh diverted quickly while it slowed down.
“What are you doing?” Torrik asked.
Santa pointed out as the edge of the sleigh slid across a magical field that surrounded the ice continent. “That barrier is too strong. I can’t get through.”
Torrik cocked his head. “No barrier is perfect. We can. . . wait, what is that?” He pointed at flashes of light in the distance.
Santa reached behind him, into his gift sack, and produced a pair of military grade binoculars. He looked through them and let out a heavy sigh. “Look for yourself.”
Torrik spent a moment figuring out how to use the strange technology, but then saw for himself the battle between Nova and Lady Echidna. Nova kept her away from the barrier, but she was relentlessly trying to kill him in return.
“We have to get in there. Help him stop her.”
Santa reached back and pulled out a large BADGE laser cannon. “Then help me take down this damn barrier.” He used the weapon to fire an endless stream of power at the surface of the barrier.
Torrik concentrated on his hands, his horns both glowed and he pushed both hands forward. A steady stream of lightning blasted out and met the barrier in the same place as Santa’s weapon.
***
“I don’t know where to look,” Chase bemoaned as she and Gar left the vault.
EB hopped over and shook his head. “Not anywhere in cold storage or the food lockers.”
Gar asked, “If this was so important, wouldn’t he put it in a really safe place? Like the secure vault on Earth.”
Chase walked down the corridor as she answered that. “I won’t ignore the possibility. However, logic tells me he wouldn’t keep it anywhere on Earth. Lady Echidna would have a much harder time finding it up here. He would want to keep it away from her.”
Gar asked, “EB, you know how Nova thinks. Where would he have put it?”
EB laughed, “I never figured that guy out. He’s an enigma wrapped in a mystery, smothered in chocolate with a nice nougat filling… anyone else want some candy now? WAIT! THAT’S IT!”
Chase said, “I seriously doubt candy will help right now.”
“No, no, no. Don’tcha see. Clues! Nova loved clues. Come on!” EB ran ahead.
“Wait, we can’t run… and he’s gone.” Chase jogged along with Gar.
Gar yelled, “EB, COME BACK!”
EB zipped back to them. “Sorry. Got excited. Come on, it’s in Nova’s office. I don’t know why I didn’t think of this before.”
“Think of what?” Chase asked.
“Don’t spoil the surprise. This is really great. Like, something so intricate.”
They ran back through the station, up to the top level, and into Nova’s old office. Justin was there with them, as he saw all three enter the Operations and run up the stairs.
“What are you doing here? Did you find the Eye?” he asked.
EB said, “Gimme a sec and I’ll have it for you.”
Everyone waited while EB hopped over to a couch beside a wall that had a glassed case containing artifacts as decor. EB punched in a simple security code and the glass opened up. There was an ornate egg with gold gilding in the middle of the objects.
“Here it is!”
Chase said, “Uh, EB, we scanned this office close to a hundred times. Nothing showed up.”
EB set the egg, with its golden holder, on the desk. “Do you remember when we found the Eye of the Hydra?”
“Yes.” Justin said, “I ordered it concealed in an egg like that and sent down to be protected. It didn’t work. Lady Echidna found it right away.”
“But, you see, that was Nova’s plan all along.”
Gar said, “But Nova was already gone. That was Justin’s plan.”
“Nope. We’re underestimating Nova’s calculating mind. He’s like a grand master chess player, only better. He figured Justin would do that. You see, he asked me to make him this egg a while back, and I did, because we are BFFs. And I thought nothing of it. Never really understood why he wanted to have an impervious egg made. But, he's my friend. When Justin came to me and asked for an egg that would be impervious to any kind of scan or detection, I just made another like this. I never realized it was part of a master plan.”
Chase said, “But your powerful magic on the outside would have shown up on the arcane sensors.”
“Nope. Justin sent the second egg to Neo Utopia to be locked in a time pocket so that it was outside of time. Don’tcha know? Nova has time powers as well. He locked this one in a time pocket too. So, it is protected. And, he left this clue, this egg protects what’s inside and cannot be detected by most things. He knew when the time came, only I, HIS BESTEST BEST FRIEND FOREVER, would realize it.”
Chase muttered, “Still bothered by Nova’s statement on Midgard?”
“Shut up.” EB sneered.
“Can you open the egg?” Justin asked.
EB put his paws together and cracked his knuckles. “Yup. Nova showed me a thing or two about time powers. Well, some things... and he didn’t really show me, I just watched him use them.... and he really didn’t like it... but I figured out this much.” He put his paws on the egg and concentrated. After a moment, the surface became blurry and then cracked and what appeared like thin glass shattered and dissipated, leaving the egg unchanged. EB tapped the top, and the egg made a satisfying clicking sound of gilded gears as the top spread apart like a flower blooming. Inside was a tiny cushion with the ruby sitting in the middle. “And viola, Nova’s missing eye.”
Chase said, “That? Are you sure? It looks like any large ruby.”
Gar slowly reached out, “I feel something from it. The magic inside this is… strange. I know it. I have felt this before.”
EB slowly turned and looked at the eye. “I feel it too. This is a Vexillian spell, or one very much like it.”
Justin asked, “What are you talking about?”
EB quietly said, “This is a talisman. Just as Jinn’s bottle was half of his soul. Nova literally split his soul in half and stored half of it here. My God! He was only half of himself and hasn’t even been near his talisman all these years, and he was so very, very powerful. What will this make him?”
Chase asked, “What do we do with this? Just bring it to him?”
EB reached out for it, “Yup. The closer it is to him, the more... Gah!” He held his heart.
Gar lurched as well. “No, what has happened?”
Chase caught EB before he fell off the desk. She asked, “What is happening?”
EB had tears in his eyes as he said, “Nova‘s… dead.”
Citizens across the planet were swimming in a sea of black mists. Yet, they laughed and played as though they were in the grandest of parties. In their minds, they could hear the melodic music of Lady Echidna as she sang their deaths to them. Presidents and Prime Ministers, the Pope and Dali Lama all waltzed about with the surrounding people, unaware of the dangers that lurked in the corners.
“No! Stop!” Tri-Blade raced across a dock and caught two people who were about to dance right into the ocean. He threw them back into the city street. Undoubtedly, his rescue caused them injuries, but they simply rose to their feet, laughed, drank from invisible champagne glasses, and continued their dance.
The massive Charybdis plowed through the ocean waters directly for the dock. It’s gaping maw swallowing everything before it. The flow of water toward its open mouth broke part of the dock under Tri-Blade’s feet. He jumped backward and got onto solid ground, his eyes never leaving the approaching beast.
“Watch out!” Nebula tumbled next to him, landing in a crouched position. She took down five shadow wolves bounding toward him.
“Thanks.” Tri-Blade whipped out his blades and readied for more beasts. “What is BADGE saying?”
“I don’t know. This fog is causing trouble with the comm.”
“Dammit! We need Nova. He would know how to fix this.”
Hundreds of heroes came swarming from all directions, attacking the monster in the sea. They drove it back, away from the city, but the fight was just beginning.
Nebula readied her attack as she said, “We can’t wait for Nova to return to us. We have to fight this ourselves. Let’s cut this fish up!” She launched herself off the dock with Tri-Blade on her heels.
***
Lady Echidna, a shadowy monster herself, dove toward Nova and lashed at him with large swaths of darkness billowing off of her.
Nova spun out of the way and deflected her attack with his sword. He then held up his hand and a blinding white light emitted from his palm. She screeched and lurched back. In her stumbling, he raced toward her, swinging his blade.
After being sliced across the middle, Lady Echidna's mid-section produced only smoke. She re-congealed and then hit him in the face with a blast of pure darkness. The force threw him backward across the snowy ground.
Rising, the cloud beneath her billowing as a sick fog of silky black, she said, “This is pointless, Nova! I contain the power of all four beasts combined with my own. There is nothing in this world that can bring me down.”
Nova used his enormous sword to get back to his feet. “I know. But, I must try.”
She laughed, her cracked chortle echoing around him as a thunder. “Pitiful warrior angel. I never could break that spirit of loyalty and honor in you. You were amazing. I enjoyed fighting beside you. I enjoyed laying beside you as well. But you will never accept that you broke yourself when you fell with me. There will never be enough light in this world to contend with what I am. You cannot find it any longer. What was in you is gone. I can feel it, I can see it in your eyes.”
Nova struck a fighting pose, holding his sword in both hands. His eyes locked with hers as the surrounding light grew. “The light you should fear is not that which I once wielded. It is all around us, every day. We just need to look for it. Seek it. However, I’ll show you just how strong I still am.” The light from him erupted, with his wings appearing in a blinding flash. When Lady Echidna lurched back at the sight, he lunged for her. She gathered her strength and lunged at him. The light and the dark meeting in the middle of the icy planes of Antarctica.
With each swipe of his blade, the continent beneath them cracked. With each lash of her shadow, the skies grew darker. The sun overhead, hardly bright enough to reflect on the ocean, seemed to turn to blood as the fight continued.
***
Torrik stopped firing at the barrier with his magic when Santa lowered his BADGE weapon. They both watched the world flash with explosions of incredible brightness as the battle waged.
“Look at them fight. The sheer power.” Torrik whispered this.
Santa said, “I’ve never seen Nova at this strength. I knew it was in him, and I feared it.”
“Why fear it?” Torrik asked.
“Because the only time he would ever harness it would be the day he was certain the world would end unless he gave his all.”
Torrik almost spoke when there came a crack like thunder breaking a thousand times at once. The flash of light shook the skies and lit up the world as if daylight had returned for a moment. However, darkness replaced it quickly.
Santa screamed, “NOVA!”
Torrik said, “The barrier, it’s falling.”
“Nova!” Santa snapped the reins, and the sleigh blasted off at incredible speed, moving where the barrier prevented only moments before.
***
Lady Echidna hovered around Nova, who was on his knees in the snow, his arms held out, his back arched so that his face was looking directly up. A silent scream falling out of his open mouth, and a shadowy dagger lodged directly in the middle of his chest. His wings faded away, crumbling across the ice.
She looked down upon him, a sense of pity in her otherwise bitter face. “So it ends. The last Arcblade to hold on to hope. Yohan is mine, the universe is mine. Nothing can stop me now.” She looked up at the portal in the distance and let out a victorious, sly smile.
***
Chase held EB, who sobbed uncontrollably in her arms. Gar looked as though he were about to fall over. He could shed no tears, but he was just as sad.
“What do we do now?” Chase whispered.
Justin looked back when another alert siren activated. “What else could go wrong?”
He raced out of the office and down to the Operations center. “Report, I… oh God, no!” He looked at the screens.
Robot 10915 said, “We detected these in the shadows moments ago.”
Justin watched the giant, shadowy figures of Charybdis, Fenrir, and the Hydra marching across the world. A dryness hit his throat as he asked, “What is their projected destination?”
10915 calculated and then said, “As far as calculations can determine, their destination is Antarctica.”
Justin said, “She has summoned her sentinels. We have no time. Send out a signal to all heroes they need. .. “
“Systems are not responding. Interference from the black cloud is creating a signal blackout.”
Justin said, “Hack every single communication satellite in orbit. Activate any that are dormant. Send the Black Alert out on repeat. Use Morse Code, flashing lights, anything. I need communication! I will be in the office.” He left operations and ran back into Nova’s office.
Gar met him with, “What is happening now?”
Justin went straight for EB. “It can’t get much worse. We have three shadow monsters heading for the portal and Lady Echidna is there. I don’t know if we can get to her in time, but I need to tell the heroes to move. EB, I need your magic.”
EB held Chase, his face buried in her shoulder. “I can’t go on like this. The darkness, the pain. This world is doomed.”
Chase said, “There is always hope. Nova was always the hope, even when people didn’t realize it. We have to find hope in another way. We have to try.”
EB hopped out of her arms and stood on Nova’s desk. He looked at the empty chair as he held the ruby in his paws. “I love this world, as does Santa. We are the last of our kind to live here. But, we didn’t stay just because we love this place. We stayed because Nova displayed honor unlike anyone we have ever known. Even Lord Dragon failed in the end. But Nova never failed. I swore an oath centuries ago that I would stand beside him in his darkest days and never let him fall, as long as he remained honorable. He has fallen... this world has fallen.”
Justin said, “No, you can’t say that.”
EB turned and shocked them all with his red, glowing eyes. “If we can’t save this world, by GOD, I will may that witch’s victory as hallow as I feel right now. I will tear her apart!” His body glowed as he rose in the air.
“EB?” Chase frowned.
He said, “Get out of here, now. Run.”
Gar quickly grabbed Chase and Justin and ran out of the room. He shoved his back against the closed door and pressed the emergency seal.
An explosion echoed, and the station shook so hard that half the robots tumbled away from their stations.
“Alert: hull breach in section alpha. Alert: Hull breach in section alpha.” The computer announced.
Justin yelled from his place on the floor, “Emergency force fields!”
“Activated. Decompression interrupted. Deploy repair drones.” The automated system reacted as programmed.
Justin got to his feet. “What the hell just happened?”
Gar pointed at a monitor. “Is that EB?”
They all looked at a video feed of what appeared to be a meteor blasting toward the planet’s surface.
Chase got to her feet and read the charts. “The energy readings are unbelievable.”
Justin watched the monitor. “Nova always said that EB was far more powerful that any of us knew.”
“But is he powerful enough to stop her?”
Justin checked his comm unit and smiled. “He isn’t alone.” He saw the comm line open on the main screen. Justin activated their rigged communication system. “Justin to all Heroes. Head to Antarctica and take down the shadow monsters and Lady Echidna. We have one shot at this or it is the end of the world. This is a doomsday alert. Do not hold back! For Earth... for Nova.”
Night filled the air, yet the sun had not set for the day. Light was almost gone from the heavens. Only a bright, warm light emitting from the portal to the Great Divide gave any illumination. Lady Echidna strode past the fallen Nova and headed for the portal. The shadow billowing around her gave the appearance of floating along in a fog.
Upon reaching the portal, her dark countenance intensified as the light illuminated her. The look of abject greed sparkled in her eyes. Her hand met another barrier that crackled with green energy, which prevented her from entering the portal.
“Nature magic? The satyr.” She turned to see Torrik running toward her. “Yohan’s last defender is a pathetic goat.”
Torrik cut his running with sideways drifting across the snowy surface. He held out both hands and spoke magical words. Vines erupted from far beneath the ice and attempted to wrap around her.
Lady Echidna deftly avoided each vine as she darted around on her shadowy base. She spun around, creating a dark tornado of mist and then thrust her hand forward, casting a blast of shadow at Torrik. “Die, little goat.”
Torrik clapped his hands, and a bright ball of light formed in front of him. The light created a shield that deflected her shadow. “Don’t think I haven’t fought dark magic before.” He threw the light at her as he ran at a ninety-degree angle away from the pitch.
She created a massive shockwave of darkness that spread out, throwing him away. When it died down, she rose and her voice boomed, “You’ve faced dark magic! Ha! I crafted the dark magic that forced Merlin to flee this world with all the other cowards! I am the darkness that haunted his nightmares!”
Torrik rolled over on the ice and slapped his hands against the surface. Large cracks formed and raced toward her, each beaming bright light. Her shadow fled as the cracks surrounded her. Vines erupted up and ensnared her body and bound her arms down.
“NOW, SANTA!”
Santa zoomed down on his sleigh, jumped out just as it swooped by. He had an enormous sword in his hands with which he aimed directly at her chest. “THIS IS FOR NOVA!”
The moment he was to meet her with his piercing strike, she let out a shattering screech that blasted him away, destroyed the vines trapping her. Santa fell out of the sky, rolled across the icy ground, and then came to a kneeling stop with his sword stabbed into the surface.
Lady Echidna exploded in a hurricane of shadow for a moment, pressing both adversaries to the ground. She let up and reformed as her beautiful self, dark wispy mists pouring off her body. “You cannot hope to defeat me.”
Torrik ran over to the barrier and stood before it. “I will not stop protecting Yohan from you until my last breath.”
“I will accept that payment. In Yohan, I will finally harvest the hearts of all nine dragons. Merlin delayed me, but I will be victorious. You cannot stop me. Nova couldn’t stop me.”
Santa said, “We will not stop trying.”
“You two strike a pathetic defense of this world.”
Santa smiled, “Three.”
“Three?”
Santa glanced up. “We have company.”
She looked up just in time to see the blazing red comet blasting toward her. Santa knelt down and protected himself just as EB met the ground, creating a sizable shockwave of his own. His body ignited in a powerful red energy, and he let out a primal scream that caused him to release a blast of red energy towards her with such force that it threw her miles away, crashing into the ocean.
Torrik waited a moment for the screaming to stop. “By the nine dragons, what was that?”
EB sat there, breathing hard through his teeth as he glared toward Lady Echidna. “I will tear her apart. I’ll rip her soul out and shred it.”
Santa walked over to him. “I don’t know if we have the power to stop her.”
EB’s red glow faded as he calmed slightly. “And she has brought others. The three damned beasts are battling the BADGE heroes, keeping them back.”
Torrik asked, “What are you holding?”
EB opened up his paws to reveal the ruby eye of Nova. “It was his last hope. It was a part of him.”
Santa said, “I sense something in it. Part of his soul. Could it be a talisman?”
EB nodded, “Yes.”
“Connect it to him.”
EB shook his head, “Why? He’s dead.”
“It might do something. Please, try.”
Torrik struck a defensive posture. “Do something, she’s coming!”
EB hopped over to Nova and looked at him. He still was on his knees, his dead eyes staring into the dark sky. Pulling out the dark blade, EB slowly pressed the ruby into the open wound. “I always knew you had a strong heart. Please, let it beat again.” He had tears in his eyes as he held Nova by the chest, pressing that stone deeper into him. “I miss my friend.”
“Something is happening.” Santa stood back.
A red glow appeared in Nova’s chest and EB hopped back. “Could he be alive?”
Nova faded on the winds as dust, evaporating into nothing as it flew away.
“Nova!” EB cried out in such agony that Santa lost control and wept as well.
A garbled beeping sound came from all three of them. Torrik turned on the comm device they had given him and a fuzzy voice of Justin said, “All heroes to Antarctica, Black Alert! All heroes to Antarctica...”
They heard fighting in the distance and could see small people flying around large, shadowy beasts. Portals and aircraft appeared in the skies above. A dirigible flew by, spraying electro cannon fire across Fenrir.
“They made it,” Santa declared.
Torrik said, “What good will it do? She is too powerful.”
EB looked to the side and saw the violent approach of Lady Echidna. “You don’t know what these people are truly capable of. We three cannot defeat her, but we can give them time to try.”
“How?” Torrik asked.
EB looked up at Santa, “The Garlor defense strategy.”
“You think it will stop her?”
EB moved over beside Torrik. “It stopped Legion on Vexillia long enough for us to survive their onslaught. We stand and protect this portal or die trying.”
Holding up his paws, EB cast a spell that created a clear glass-like shell around them and the portal. Santa stood next to him and held out his hands, which created a bright glow that crackled across the surface.
Torrik said, “I see what you’re doing. I don’t know your magic, but I will do what I can. HLIF BORG STOR!” He cast his spell, and another barrier formed around theirs, creating a double thick shield.
At that moment, the shadow of Lady Echidna met them and attacked the surface of their force-fields. They struggled, but maintained their postures.
EB said, “You’re dead, witch.”
Her face appeared in the midst of the shadows. “I will not lose.”
Santa said, “I’ve heard that before, and all those who said it are currently dead.”
A massive black cloud of inky mists assaulted the barrier encapsulating the portal between the worlds. The three defenders inside struggled to maintain it, but the strain was apparent on their faces.
Torrik, still casting his barrier spell using his satyr horns as his casting tool, held up a hand and created a ball of bright light. The shadowy forces attacking them recoiled for a moment, but came back just as hard.
Lady Echidna’s face appeared in the clouds, though this face was far older and more wretched than the beautiful woman she pretended to be. “It is only a matter of time. My shadow is unstoppable and the heroes will fall to my minions before they even reach me. Give up.”
EB screamed, “NEVER!”
Just then, something exploded within her cloud, then beams of energy shot through her. She screeched and the attacking on the barrier weakened.
Torrik asked, “What is that?”
Santa let out a deep, laughter. “The heroes are coming.”
More blasts of energy struck her cloud and forced her to re-congeal into a figure instead of the darkness. In the sick darkness of the day, as the sun was almost nothing but a faded ball in the far distance, thousands of heroes rushed toward her. No monolithic creature stood in their way. Her minions had failed.
She watched them approach, her body flickering with black energy. “No matter. I will tear them apart. The battle has weakened them.” Swishing her hand through the air, she deflected several blasts of energy from the approaching Dirigible.
Santa said, “You are tactically wise and incredibly powerful, but they have an advantage you may not truly understand.”
Sending out a wave of darkness, she stopped, a barrage of energy blasts from the front line of heroes racing toward them. “What could these pests have that would be any advantage?”
EB said, “They aren’t just saving the universe, they’re here for revenge.”
She clapped her hands together and sent a blade of darkness at the heroes, cutting through them. However, she couldn't stop all the incoming attacks, and ten blasts hit her hard simultaneously. She flew back across the icy planes and crashed through a rock outcropping.
Santa dropped his barrier, which stopped EB’s defense. He produced his sword again. “Time to make this bitch pay.”
Torrik stood in the middle of the portal and summoned a thick covering of vines inside the opening and then enchanted an additional barrier. “I will stay here just in case. Go. Make her pay.”
EB produced two exploding eggs and said, “With great pleasure.”
***
Midgard’s broken body lay in the ruins of Lady Echidna’s temple. The crumbled remains of the ceiling above scattered around him. Darkness of the world left this room nothing but a void, no flicker of light graced his remains. The quiet of the room was as thick as the shadow that filled it.
Yet, a small particle of light appeared over him, then another, and another. They floated about as dust on a breeze, though there was no moving air in the room. Hundreds turned to thousands and a clean, glorious light filled this tomb of a throne room. The flakes of light drifted closer together and slowly formed the figure of a man in strange robes with glorious wings on his back, which chased away the darkness with glorious golden light.
He folded his wings, dimming the light slightly, and then knelt down next to Midgard. Reaching out with a hand, he touched the shoulder of the fallen ancient hero.
“What she stole from you she could not truly take. You do not remember, as you gave your memory to me for safekeeping. Now, my ancient friend from a bygone era, I return to you the part of your soul you left with me to protect this world.” This angelic being held out his hand, and Nova’s glorious sword appeared. The moment it formed, the man’s beautiful face changed to the wise Nova with one missing eye now filled with a red ruby. He placed the sword in Midgard’s hand and slowly closed the green fingers around the hilt.
“You will live on, my friend. You gave me strength to fight and protect this world. You trusted me to preserve that which made you whole. I never could tell you who you really were, and that we had a deep past between us as allies and friends. But you kept a strange honor that always gave me hope. You gave this world hope, even when you foolishly boasted and threatened with empty promises. I will never forget what you really were under the ego, a real hero.”
Nova stood back and looked up at the broken hole. His wings opened up, and a smile crossed his face. “The fight, my lady, has only begun.” He flew up with incredible speed.
As he cut through the skies, speeding across the land, the light in his wake split the darkness and sent it scurrying away. The mere sight of his passing destroyed the beasts that spawned from it, making them yelp and scream.
***
Lady Echidna stood atop a large rock and ice mountain with heroes all around her. Her body was half made of her shadow cloud. With it, she would strike out and bring down heroes and stop attacks. But there were innumerable heroes around her, pummeling her with weapons fire.
“I WILL NOT BE DESTROYED BY YOU PATHETIC MORTALS!” Lady Echidna screamed and her darkness sped out in a great wind that threw heroes away, smashing many into the ice, some even submerged deep in the bitter waters. The cloud condensed again, and she directed attacks with clear precision. A woman approached with her eyes blasting fire. The shadow stuck her right in the belly and ripped her apart with ease. Three shadowy tendrils gripped the legs and arm of the man, who had transformed into a large white gorilla, and ripped them from his torso.
“Pull back!” Santa yelled out and the heroes rallied behind him, putting distance between them and Lady Echidna’s slaughter.
Furious Squirrel drove his Dirigible directly above them and waited. He spoke over his loudspeaker, “What now?”
Lady Echidna rose and darted toward them.
Santa yelled, “We have no choice! Full boar! There is no backing down!” He ran as he created a blast of magical light from his hands directly at her.
The heroes all followed behind him in a single army, unleashing any form of power or weapon they had. The dirigible in the sky sped forward, its large cannon directly underneath it extended and charged. It let out a strong, steady beam. All this power met Echidna’s oncoming cloud.
She sent out thousands of tendrils of her shadow at them, one bisecting the dirigibles balloon, causing it to list to the side and head for the snowy fields. Her shadow killed hundreds of heroes and agents, but those remaining continued their attack.
“KEEP GOING!” Santa ordered. Lady Echidna’s body shrank and her retaliation weakened considerably.
With a horrid screech that shattered the ice for miles, Lady Echidna’s cloud exploded. The blast knocked people down. Instantly, the darkness nearest them faded away, revealing the stars in the sky again. The sun actually gained more glow.
EB sat up near Santa and said, “Did we do it? Is she really gone?”
Heroes rose to their knees, some to their feet. Santa used his sword to help stand. In the distance behind them the dirigible billowed with smoke, but Furious Squirrel flew down on his steampunk jetpack. Countless heroes littered the ground, the dead almost too numerous to count. However, more survived and were hesitantly joyful that the war was over.
“I think we did it.” Santa said.
The darkness sank in harder than before, almost blinding the people. The heroes felt the pressure of the darkness, and some of them found it difficult to breathe. Lady Echidna appeared in the middle, with the red glow of her eyes cutting through the shadow.
“I WILL NOT BE DEFEATED. I AM THE DARKNESS, I AM ETERNAL! I WILL HAVE MY VICTORY OVER YOUR PATHETIC MORTALS!”
Santa gasped. He slammed his wrist down to activate his BADGE comm unit. He wheezed out, “Justin....she...is unstoppable....you have....no other choice...”
***
Justin watched this horror on his screen. The Earth below was turning to a solid black. It was as if no light could escape this darkness.
The words of Santa sent a sickening chill through his gut. He knew what was being asked of him, but he never wanted to do it. However, he knew it was the last chance. “10915, set the Omega protocol, authorization, Beta Pi Alpha Seven Seven.”
If the eyes of a robot could show fear, it would be visible now. But he did as commanded. “The station's core is set to breach. Directing thrusters. Setting destination, Antarctica.”
Justin whispered, “God forgive me for what I am about to do. 10915, engage.”
All the thrusters on the station ignited and the entire facility sped toward the planet’s surface. Upon impact, one of the biggest explosions would take Antarctica and everything on it possible. The repercussions would be felt for centuries across the planet, but there would be a planet left and that is what mattered.
“The escape pod is ready, sir.”
Justin said, “No, If BADGE is going down today, I will go with it.”
Justin watched the sight before him. The world came closer at alarming speed. He had to hold on to the console nearest him so he didn’t fall over as the station rattled and rumbled. The underside was already blazing hot with their energy shields keeping the atmospheric entry from destroying them too soon. On most of the monitors, a warning flashed that the power core of the station was unstable. The impact would detonate the most powerful energy system ever created.
Tears rolled down his face as he knew what was coming. He would die today, as would thousands of others, including everyone in New Meta City. All in the hope that this was enough to destroy this immortal being of darkness.
“I’m sorry, Nova. I wasn’t good enough.”
***
Santa held his throat, struggling to take oxygen in.
A soft sobbing sounded next to him and he reached over and felt EB’s small, furry body on the ground. “Don’t cry, my old friend.”
EB said, “I really thought we could beat her. I thought we could get back my friend. It can’t end like this. Evil can’t win.”
Santa looked up at the small pinpoint of light that was the station careening toward them. “It won’t be long now. There is one last chance. But it will not be ours to see. Now, my old friend, we pass this existence and tread the next adventure, wherever that takes us.”
“It’s so dark,” EB wept.
A bright flash of light cracked the heavens, and the ensuing thunder shook the world. Santa gasped in a stronger breath, the darkness no longer holding him down.
“What… was that?” EB asked.
A brilliant ball of light sped over them, splitting the darkness in twain and sundering it into a mere fog that dissipated quickly.
Santa got up to his knees and watched. “It can’t be!”
EB was about to ask when he saw it. A winged angel flew directly at Lady Echidna, a bright sword in his hand as he met her with an incredible slash. Her scream rattled their bones, and the darkness faded even more.
A nearby hero asked, “Who is that?”
Santa held a quivering smile with tears in his eyes. “It’s Nova!”
Nova, the arch angel, flew around in the sky and a massive bolt of lightning spewed from his hands and met Echidna. She few back and rolled across the ground, recovering quickly with a rise into the air, her shadow still surrounding her. From their view, they saw her standing opposite the angel, who was surrounded by light, in stark contrast to her intense darkness.
She flew directly at Nova and attacked him, her darkness sending him sprawling. He recovered just as quick as she did and came back for a counterattack. Again and again they sparred, each attacking the other with their light and dark essence.
Darth Raider rushed up, “COME ON, LET’S HELP!”
Santa swiftly held out his sword to stop them. “No. We are no true match. We retreat and regroup. I don’t think he can defeat her, but he can hold her at bay long enough for Justin to finish this, I hope. MOVE!”
Everyone turned to run, but paused at what they saw approaching. The color drained from many faces at this sight. EB whispered, “Oh, my god.”
Moments before:
“How?” Echidna screeched as she saw her formerly dead opponent standing before her.
Nova, his red eye glowing brightly, answered, “I was one step ahead of you since before you returned. I knew this day would come, and so I prepared. You split your soul by selling your heart to hate and evil. I split mine by dividing the most pure of mine and placing it in this ruby. Once reunited, I am as I was before, an arcblade.”
She scoffed, “Still a fallen one. You cannot overcome that.”
“No. But I can now face you as an equal.”
Nova flew at Echidna and struck her with his sword of light. He sliced right through her shadow. It caused her immense pain, but she simply reformed. She twisted around and threw an arm at him, which sent a bolt of shadow at his mid-section. Her attack thrust him backward across the ice, causing him to scream in agony.
“End this, Nova! You know you can’t defeat me. I killed you once. I can do it again!”
Nova stood and held up his sword, causing it to beam extra bright. She lurched back. He answered her, “I vowed to defend this world from all evils. I will not back down, I will not stop. This battle is over.”
She held out her hands and brought them back together. All the dark shadows cast by anything around Nova came crashing in at him. He quickly covered himself with his glowing wings and the shadows sloughed off. He responded by thrusting his sword forward and casting a glorious light from it in a single beam. She held up her arm and a swath of darkness met the light and destroyed it.
“Face it, Nova, we’re equals. This battle will continue for eternity.”
Nova smiled and lowered his sword and took a step back. “You’re correct. We are equals. I am complete now, and a match for you. Your soul is dark. I am light. This will continue forever. I can’t defeat you.”
“Then you surrender?” She wasn’t backing down.
He shook his head, “No. I can’t defeat you... alone.”
“What?” her question was answered by the shaking of the ground and the crashing of ice as the continent was crushed.
She looked to see Midgardsormr stomping toward them in his fullest form. He walked through the ocean as one might stride through a pool, the ice parting for him as he moved. In his right hand held the same sword Nova once bore, only it was many times greater.
Lady Echidna called out her shadow to attack before Midgard got to her. However, Nova responded by summoning his light and restraining her. Midgard reached back with his great sword and came crashing down on her with the blade, slicing through rock and ice, deep into the heart of Antarctica.
From inside the fissure created by his attack, the shadow burst out and struck Midgard in the face. The mighty serpent reeled back a few steps, going half a mile away for a moment. The explosion of shadow threw Nova away as well, skidding him across the snowy ground.
Lady Echidna rose in the air, the shadow spinning around her in a torrent. "You cannot destroy me!" She exclaimed. “I am the heart of darkness, the evil of all things. I will never go away!”
A bolt of white lightning passed through her, and she crashed into the ground. Nova stood once more, his hands held up as the light from his body burned so hot that he cast deep shadows across the dome of New Meta City.
“We know what you are, and we know how to defeat you forever, my lady. Midgard, it is time!”
She struggled against his light. Her shadow couldn’t form in the brilliance that surrounded her. “What... what are you doing?” There was a pitiful plea in that voice. The first time she truly sounded fearful in known history.
Midgard stomped toward her, reaching out with his massive claw. He grasped her, taking her shadow into his hand as if he were gripping a branch of a mighty tree. She was in his grip.
He bellowed, “It is over!”
Nova, still beaming with light, flew up on his wings as Midgard rose into the sky, the light of Nova surrounding him and still restraining her.
“Nova! What are you doing? I can’t be destroyed! Midgardsormr, let me go!”
***
Santa watched this incredible sight as he and the other heroes fled the chaotic battle of the three deities.
“What just happened?” EB asked, sitting next to Santa in his sleigh.
Santa shook his head. “I don’t know. I think we won. Oh, no!” He snapped the reins and circled around the fleeing heroes. “Anyone who can help, get to the station. Stop it falling!” Heroes turned quickly and rushed into the sky to carry the station back to its place in orbit.
EB slapped the comm on Santa’s wrist, “Justin, stop the Omega thing. Now!”
“What?” Justin asked.
Santa spoke, “It is over. She is defeated. End Omega before you blow yourself up. I’ve sent heroes to help put the station back in orbit.”
“Understood.”
***
Two days later:
Justin summoned a meeting in the station's boardroom, calling all the BADGE leaders, as well as Santa and Torrik. They spoke about the repercussions of the battle and how BADGE would respond.
“Chase, I’m putting you and EB in charge of speaking with the national leaders that contact us. Let them know we will do all we can to help to address the damages from this conflict. But remind them it is over.”
“Is it?” Chase asked.
Santa said, “It has been two days and there is no sign of Lady Echidna or her people.”
Gar asked, “I still don’t know what happened? I saw Nova... alive. He had wings. And Midgard returned. But they are gone. And…”
Justin stopped him. “There are a lot of questions, and I don’t know if we’ll ever get answers. I am inclined to believe it is over for good. But, without solid evidence, I just don’t know. I am still not convinced that was Nova in the end. As far as the report goes, Santa and Torrik found Nova dead with a blade buried in his chest.”
“I was him! I know it!” EB yelled.
Justin said, “I wish it was him. I wish he was here. We would have answers.”
Torrik said, “Well, I can tell you that none of my spells detect shadow magic on this world. Which is amazing considering how far spread her shadow went. So, it is over.”
Justin looked at the time. “I have a long meeting with the United Nations in ten minutes and we are not accomplishing anything. You have your orders. Let’s get to them.”
The meeting adjourned, and everyone left for the Operations center. However, the moment they stepped out of the meeting, something stopped all of them dead in their tracks.
Nova, in his normal outfit with an eye-patch over his face, turned and looked at them. He let out his signature little smile and said, “About time. I’ve been waiting for an hour.”
“NOVA!” EB raced across the tops of the computers all the way down to Nova, slamming into him so hard that Nova stumbled back five feet and had to catch himself before he fell over. EB was now attached to Nova’s chest, hugging him furiously. “I THOUGHT YOU WERE DEAD, BUT THEN YOU CAME BACK AND THEN YOU FOUGHT AND YOU WERE SOOO AMAZING, BUT KINDA SCARY, IT WAS ALL SCARY, AND SHE WAS A HORRIBLE, HORRIBLE PERSON, AND THERE WERE THESE SHADOW MONSTERS, HUGE ONES, AND THEN THE WORLD WAS ALL DARK AND EVERYTHING WAS ALMOST DEAD AND I COULDN’T BREATHE, I WAS CRYING SOOOOOOOO HARD BECAUSE I THOUGHT IT WAS ALL OVER AND YOU WERE DEAD, BUT YOU CAME BACK AND HAD WINGS AND A SWORD AND WERE ALL LIT UP LIKE THE SUN ITSELF, AND THEN MIDGARD SHOWED UP, BUT YOU ALREADY KNEW THAT. HEY HOW DID THAT HAPPEN? WHY ARE YOU BACK? I SAW YOU WITH A KNIFE IN YOUR CHEST. I’M SO GLAD YOU’RE ALIVE!”
“EB!” Nova attempted to pry the bunny off of him, but failed.
EB swooned, “OH, I LOVE THAT IRATE YELL. I HAVEN’T HEARD THAT IN SO LONG. JUSTIN YELLED AT ME, BUT NOT LIKE YOU. MY BESTEST, BEST BUDDY!”
“Get off me!” Nova finally removed EB from his chest.
EB hopped down and was bouncing up and down with excitement. “What happened?”
Justin led the others down to the front of the room. Everyone, save perhaps Torrik, was misty eyed at the sight of him.
“Sir,” Justin softly said, betraying his failed attempt at holding down his own emotions. “Are you really back?”
Nova smiled and nodded. “Yes. And, to answer the question the world wants to know, Lady Echidna is forever gone. We cannot kill Lady Echidna, but we have contained her in a way that will hold her at bay until time itself stops.”
Santa said, “You have told me much about yourself. You confided many secret details to me, yet I was not prepared for what we witnessed. How did you survive? What… what are you?”
Nova looked around the people in this room, all waiting for this answer with bated breath. “I am Nova, defender of this world. That is all you need to know about me.”
Torrik asked, “You seemed to have a pretty good idea of what was going to happen. How come you let her rise to power and do what she did if you knew how to defeat her?”
“I didn’t know exactly how it would all play out. But I knew I needed to let her advance her plans far enough that she tapped into all her monsters she created. They were the true source of her power. Once she harnessed them, she had nothing left here to give her strength. Defeating her would mean she could never regain that power again. However, by allowing her to harness her power meant the fight would be at her strongest. I knew I couldn’t do it alone. I needed Midgard. He was far stronger than I.”
“What about Midgard? Where is he?” Justin asked.
Nova looked back at a monitor that displayed the space outside. “He is where he needs to be.”
Justin said, “Now that the world is truly safe from her, we can put our efforts into rebuilding.”
Nova nodded, “Yes. However, I am afraid that my actions have truly tarnished my image. I ask that you stand in for me for a while longer. I don’t know if I will ever be welcome again in this world.”
“I will be…”
“ABSOLUTELY NOT! I WON’T LET THE WORLD HATE ON YOU. NO SIREE!” EB hopped around Nova.
“Don’t do anything stupid.”
“Would I ever do anything stupid?” EB grinned as Nova let out an annoyed sigh.
“I can’t stop whatever you’re planning?”
“Nope.”
***
Four weeks passed as the world recovered from what Lady Echidna had done. On a select date, set by Nova, the celebrations began. Heroes and dignitaries filled the field of the Orbital Arena. Where the League Wars would normally occur, people walked around in exquisite outfits and enjoyed an elaborate party.
Nova walked with Chase, who wore an incredible red sequined dress. An ambassador and his wife both stopped and bowed to Nova and then walked on.
“I must admit, EB did a good job.” Chase took a flute of champagne from a passing tray.
Nova greeted a Prime Minister and then continued walking with her. “He spent two hundred million dollars on a huge publicity campaign to promote me. News stories about my victories in the past, constant interviews with heroes and BADGE agents to talk about how good I am, and those commercials reminding people I saved the world from the horrible darkness that spread. I’m surprised he hasn’t commissioned a full-length movie...” Nova saw a funny look on Chase’s face. “Don’t tell me... “
“Well, he has good intentions. And I think Chris Hemsworth would do a fine job of playing you.”
“He didn’t?”
She cleared her throat and looked over at the beefy Australian actor signing autographs. “I think he wants to talk to you about how to portray you.”
“This is insane.”
She fixed his bowtie on his tuxedo and said, “Go, talk to him. BADGE needs a good image and Hollywood blockbusters can help.”
“You go talk to him. Find out about this movie and let me know the details.”
“Fine.” She left Nova for the hunky Australian star.
Arx walked up behind Nova and said, “Why didn’t EB ask me? I’m twice as handsome as that bozo, and I have a perfect body. I don’t need a high-dollar trainer and fake tan.” The jealousy dripped from every word.
Nova laughed, “I think it’s still a good idea for you to stay out of the limelight. The last time you were in Hollywood, you nearly destroy the city.”
“Fair point,” Arx said.
“Did you need something?” Nova asked.
“Oh, yeah, we have a minor problem. EB caught someone who isn't supposed to be here, but he claims he was invited.”
“A gatecrasher? I think the security drones can handle that.” Nova waved at the Canadian Prime Minister.
“Well, they claim you invited them.”
Nova turned around and found EB standing next to Rutkowski in the far corner of the room. The gangster tethered by a long, magical cord made of licorice. “Actually, I invited him.” Nova left the crowd to get to the guest.
Rutkowski glared at Nova, “Is dis how yous guys treat an honored guest?”
EB tightened his magic cord, “Honored my furry butt. You’re here to scope out some sinister heist or something. Lots of expensive jewelry walking around this room.”
Nova said, “EB, let him go. I invited him.”
“Really? Oh, uh, okay.” He let go of the cord and it flopped to the ground.
Rutkowski fixed his 1930s striped suit. “See, told you I was invited. But, don’t get me wrong, I ain’t accepting no hero title or nothing.”
Arx asked, “What is he talking about?”
Nova said, “I heard that Rutkowski and Peyton worked together to help save Neo Utopia during the worst of the crisis. It impressed me that Rutkowski was the one who thought of it and never asked for anything in return. So, I thought it was time that he received some respect.
“I shoulda got some respect years ago.”
Nova said, “You might find being an honest man pays better than being a criminal. And, since the world knows how honorable you acted, you have a pretty good start.”
Rutkowski scoffed, “Great, now I gotta knock over a bank on da way home so I can fix my street cred.”
Nova laughed at that and walked away.
Rutkowski pulled out his cigarette case.
“No smoking!” EB jumped up and slapped the case out of his hand.
Rutkowski rolled his eyes. “Aw, come on.”
“Here, try these.” EB hopped up and handed him some carrots.
Rutkowski chomped on one and looked surprised. “They aint half bad.”
***
Nova walked into the middle of the extensive field as he greeted people along the way. He stopped at a hovering microphone and the lights dimmed so he was under a spotlight. Everyone watched him with great curiosity. The screens came alive around the stadium as they would during the League Wars. Across the planet, people in grand parties stopped to witness this.
“Thank you for coming to this celebration. Tonight, we aren’t here just to recognize the end of a terrible time during the Lady Echidna crisis. I called you together to pay respect to a hero that has given his all for the safety of this world. However, this is no memorial. He will be with us tonight, shortly, and will explain. I believe he is coming now.” Nova stepped aside.
A bright light shone down from outside the clear dome over the arena. A figure appeared in the light and stepped out. Midgard, in his human form, joined Nova.
“I told you I didn’t want a big celebration.” Midgard said to Nova.
Nova responded, “The world has the right to celebrate you, especially with what you are here to say.” He stepped back, giving Midgard the floor.
Midgard approached the mic and spent a moment looking uncomfortable. Finally, he said, “Hello. You know me as Midgardsormr, or possible as Jormungandr. For several thousand years, I have been with you, most of that time in secret. I forgot who I was for a long time and slowly gained a reputation. While I enjoyed my power, Nova drove me to understand honor... even when I rebuked his lessons. He is a good man, better than anyone truly knows. Centuries ago, we made a plan. We knew that our greatest foe would return and precise steps had to be taken to ensure the safety of this world. Regrettably, those steps would cause damage and cost some lives. However, we would achieve the goal. Lady Echidna is locked away as she was before. We have locked away Lady Echidna as before, but now all her power is sealed away with her, preventing her from feeding off this world. Even so, she is clever and dangerous. To make sure she never returns, I vow to stand guard in the void and restrain her for all time.”
There were many gasps and murmuring as he said this. He continued, “This world is a safer place because of BADGE and I know Nova will see to that. So… this is goodbye. It has been an interesting ride. Don’t mess it up.” The crowds applauded him as he stepped away from the mic.
The mic flew away as the ambient music returned.
Arx, Chase, EB, Gar, Justin, and Torrik joined Nova and Midgard.
EB’s lip quivered, “So... you’re leaving us for good?”
Midgard let out a hefty laugh. “Don’t tell me the puny little bunny now cares about me.”
“You aren’t so bad. You saved everyone. I’m gonna miss you.” He walked over and hugged Midgard’s leg.
“Gah, this is what I didn’t want, a mushy farewell. I’m Midgardsormr, not some Dorthy saying goodbye to the scarecrow!” He shoved the bunny off.
Chase laughed, “There’s that Midgard attitude we’ve come to love. Well, I’m gonna miss you too.”
“Bah! I’ll come back once a year to kick all your collective butts. Gotta remind this world who the real badass is.”
Justin asked, “What do you mean?“
Nova answered, “I agreed to a battle once a year. Midgard will return and fight the heroes in an epic showdown. No one kills anyone and nothing gets damaged. But the heroes will test themselves against one of the most powerful beings to walk this earth.”
“Ha! I like that. Never let anyone forget I am the strongest!” Midgard looked up. “I’ve been gone too long already. I need to get out of here.”
Nova walked up and took Midgard by the wrist in a powerful show of friendship. There was a glisten of a tear in his one good eye. “We’re going to miss you. You were a true hero, even when you pretended not to be. You touched all our lives and made this a better place. We owe you so much.”
Midgard replied, “Thanks. Coming from you, that really means something.” He pulled Nova in and came close to his ear, whispering something. He backed away and let go of Nova’s hand. Midgard grew brighter for a moment and then faded away.
Chase asked, “What did he say?”
Nova, who had gained a worried expression, said, “Don’t worry about it.”
Justin said, “I’m going to miss him.”
Nova quietly watched the stars above them. In a soft voice, he said, “He isn’t gone, not really. As long as we remember him, he will always be with us.”
A fresh wind blew around Torrik and EB as they stood out on a ledge overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Five BADGE shuttles flew in patterns around them while BADGE boats moved across the surface.
"I don't like this," Torrik muttered.
EB hopped around him, "Oh, don't be such a downer. We finally beat her to the prize. No big battles. No big tidal waves...nuthin!"
Torrik smiled, "Remember, I was the one who caused the surge in your ocean around the Eye of the Hydra."
EB stopped hopping, "Oh, right. Bout that, It was a magnificent spell, but you totally almost caused some serious harm to people."
Torrik walked away, heading for a path down to the beach. "I hoped to catch Lady Echidna in the spell, not your people. However, I'm sorry that I didn't realize I would put so many innocents in harms way."
EB brightened up, "No one was really hurt, so alls well that ends well I suppose."
They both walked out onto a beach where an encampment of BADGE tents were arranged. Computer equipment was strewn about with people analyzing the data of all the deep water scans.
EB hopped around, a silly grin on his face as he looked at all the amazing work. One of the scientist operating the system walked over and patiently waited. Torrik watched EB for a moment and then looked up at the scientist who quietly waited.
Torrik asked, "Do you have anything to report?"
The scientist watched EB and then said, "Yes, but protocol says I'm supposed to report to the highest ranking BADGE officer. Technically... that's EB."
EB stopped and his eyes went wide, "Oh, right! Oops. Not used to that. So, uh, sure, whatcha got?"
The scientist held up a computer tablet and showed them several read outs, "Dr. Morphosis has continued scanning this area with the help from Strange Quark. We're picking up minor energy readings, almost undetectable. However, if I'm looking at this correctly, they match the same readings as the other known items, the Eye of Fenrir and the Eye of the Hydra."
Torrik pointed at the tablet, "Does that magic mirror tell us where to find the item?"
"Magic mirror?" The scientist frowned.
EB said, "That's his way of asking if you can find it with the computer."
"Oh. Uh, no. But, it's a lead. We have several heroes who can handle the water pressure working down there to check for us. We could use more help."
"I can't breathe under water," EB said.
"What about Gar?" The scientist asked. "His body can handle any pressures."
EB said, "Ain't nuthin in this world gonna get Gar under water, especially this sea. He spent a LOOONG time down there and really, really hates it."
Torrik said, "Work with what you have. So far, we haven't had any sign of Lady Echidna or Master Nova. We have to get to this before they know we have an idea where it is."
"Will do." The scientist said.
"Hey, I'm the bunny in charge, I give orders. So... do what he said."
"Sure." The scientist returned to his computers and sent several messages down to the people under the water.
Torrik asked, "What is Gar? He is full of magic, and looks like a stone golem... but I've never seen a golem with personality. They're pretty mundane creatures. He's strange."
"It's a long story, which I'll be glad to tell you. But, you gotta know one thing, he hates being under water. I mean, really hates it. So, I told him he could help Justin while I'm out here with you looking for the next thingy."
A smaller than usual crowd gathered around the town square of Ka'an Dorado. A giant Krampus ghost lurched back, staggered for a moment, and then rushed forward after having been punched right in the face. Two large, green scaly arms wrapped around his neck and grabbed him. With a body throw worthy of any pro-wrestling star, Midgard tossed Krampus over himself, and slammed him head-first into the ground. The impact caused the giant monster to explode into a cloud of black mist.
Heroes and civilian spectators alike cheered and exchanged money. Midgard ripped free a large sail he had used as a blind fold and waved it around.
"NO EYES AND I STILL BEAT HIM!!! WHAT NEXT!!!"
People yelled out suggestions and argued about what challenge they would pose to him this time. He had defeated this shadow of Krampus so many times he had turned to handicapping himself to keep it interesting. Basking in the glory of all the applause only made it sweeter.
Gar flew in and landed on a taller roof nearest Midgar's face. "Midgard!"
Midgard wasn't listening, he still enjoyed the accolades of glory from the people below.
"MIDGARD!" Gar yelled louder.
This time it was obvious that Midgard was ignoring him. "So, what will it be? Hand behind back? Tail tied to leg?" More suggestions were thrown at him. "No! I am not shrinking down, it's no fun that way!"
"MIDGARDSORMR!!!" Gar yelled.
Midgard turned and glared at him with his giant, serpentine face. "WHAT IS IT, STONE BRAINS? I'M BUSY!"
Gar was hardly intimidated. "Justin needs you."
"I'm not Justin's errand boy! I'm having fun. Go away!" He turned to continue taking suggestions from the crowd.
Gar flew up and got right in Midgard's face, flapping his wings to keep aloft. "This is important. It's about Lady Echidna!"
"Gah! Can't you people deal with that fashionista bitch! I'm busy!"
"Do you want to help Nova or not!"
Midgard's left eye twitched and he finally said, "Fine. Ruin my fun."
"You can come back later."
Midgard let out a heavy sigh, which was a gale of wind in Gar's face. "Let's go."
The shadow of Krampus reformed again since Midgard was standing in the square. Midgard waved a massive claw in the air. "You people deal with this one, BADGE needs me."
The jovial crowds scrambled to evade the enemy as they were now the focus of this monster. Their champion was no longer there to protect them.
Midgard snickered as he shrunk down enough to fit into the BADGE shuttle, "They lost their lust for combat when it's their necks on the line."
The ocean of black twinkled alive with stars and planets while the moon waded through the silent stillness. Torrik sat on the beach and watched the heavens while the BADGE tents remained active with people analyzing the incoming data.
EB came over and held up a box. "Dinner."
"Set it here." Torrik gestured toward the ground next to him.
EB set the food down and then sat in the sand. "Whatcha look'n at?"
"Your stars. They're so different than mine."
EB nodded, "I know the feeling."
"What do you mean?"
"I'm not of this world, remember? It has been centuries since I was on Vexilia, but it was my home for a long time. I watched the stars above and our five moons as well. I loved the night skies. When we came here, it all changed. One moon, different stars. It's hard to imagine that the thousands of stars above could actually look so different, but they do."
Torrik smiled at EB, "That is the most mature thing you've said to me since I met you, if you don't mind my saying."
"I don't mind. I can be silly. And I don't care. I like to talk. It gets me in trouble, but people forgive me since I'm cute and fluffy. Seriously, this one time I totally ticked off Chase because I was talking about her outfit and how it made her chest look so sexy. She chased me into the arboretum and was going to stick me with a knife, right in the butt. But, I just gave her my best bunny eyes, wiggled my nose, twitched my tail, and she was nougat in my hands. Gave me this great idea of a Valentines candy made with nougat that is for the person who forgot Valentines Day, I called it my post Valentines forgive-me-nows."
"And, you are right back to silly." Torrik said.
"It's my lot in life. Now, I can be deadly serious, this one time... "
A giant blue and yellow eel jumped out of the water. It had a mans torso and head. Halfway to the ground, he transformed into a full man with bright red briefs as his only clothing.
"Dr. Morphosis?" EB jumped up.
The man rushed over, "We found something!"
Chase walked out of the lift on the station with two tablets in her hands. Acting Director Justin patiently watched the large monitor with several windows open to show him activity across the planet.
"So, have they done anything yet?"
Justin answered her, "No. I'm still trying to figure out how they hacked our computers. I've called him in to see if he's willing to answer questions."
"Good luck. As for me, I've looked over details about the new Battle Arena set up in the Great Divide. It looks like it'll be perfect." She stopped beside him.
Justin turned his attention to a monitor looking at the permanently open portal near New Meta City. This led to the realm between worlds where powerful creatures of myth and fantasy waited for intruders.
"What did the representative from the Great Divide have to say, exactly?"
Chase looked at the tablet, "Golub the Short..."
"What?"
Chase laughed, "He is an old Goblin commander and leader of the Great Divides forces. Nice guy, if a little smelly."
"What did this Goblin have to say?"
"Golub said they welcome the challenge. Many of those creatures have been waiting there for centuries with very little to do. He said most of the larger creatures are extremely resistant to energies and magical powers, which is why they were placed there. So, our heroes shouldn't do much harm."
"That was my next question. I don't want our heroes to become executioners in some kind of Colosseum type of place. These creatures know this will be tough battles."
Chase changed tablets and showed Justin some information. "It isn't a prison or penal colony where criminals are executed by combat. It appears there is a powerful spell over the realm there, so that the creatures will go down before being killed and their bodies will be transported to a place where they can recover, which they do quickly. So, it will be very hard to accidentally kill one of them. I think the bigger issue will be for the heroes, the spell won't work on them, and they'll have to know their limits and not get themselves into trouble."
Justin said, "I have considered that. BADGE is officially setting up a special Hospital in New Meta City where they will tend to the heroes who challenge this Arena. Also, it will be a protected place to send heroes who need privacy while they recover."
"Sounds like a win win. I'll tell Golub that we're in and to be expecting first real combatants any time."
Justin turned and walked over to one of the robots. He said to Chase, "Not yet. I have one last detail." He then addressed the robot, "10915, I want you to craft an updated rules outline similar to the League Wars. I want rules for our heroes to follow."
"Understood."
Chase asked, "What is that for?"
"This is training and I'll allow them to push themselves, but only so far. There has to be limits or this could get out of hand. Just look at the Krampus shadow battle. Some heroes, particularly Midgard, spend all day there thrashing that beast in every conceivable way. Those creatures aren't shadow constructs that reform after a few minutes."
Chase muttered, "You know Midgard will have something to say about that."
Just then both EB and Torrik appeared out of a flash of magic. Torrik said, "That Midgard is a dangerous person. I have warned you about him. I have never felt such unmitigated power in one creature. Only the Legendary Dragons of old held greater power than what I feel in him, and he seems to not care how he throws it around."
Justin said, "Midgard is one of our greatest heroes, even though he would hate to hear me call him that. He has saved this world on several occasions. I'm fully aware how dangerous he is and his attitude is frightening at times. But, he remains honorable... in his own way."
Chase asked, "What are you two doing here? Aren't you supposed to be searching for the Eye of the Charybdis?"
EB hopped up and down, "We found it!"
"You did?" Justin looked pleasantly surprised.
Torrik laughed, "As usual, my companion is a little ahead of himself. We found something related to it, something vital." He snapped his fingers and a stone tablet the size of a grave stone appeared. It had strange writing on it. There were three symbols with hollowed out impressions in the middle, and a larger carving next to them with a figure on it and the same text.
"What is this?" Justin looked at it.
Torrik picked it up with one hand, "This is a re-creation of what is on the floor of your great sea of Mediterranean. The one below the waters registers with great amounts of the magic related to the eyes found so far. Your heroes and agents scanned it completely and confirmed that this hole here," He pointed to a hole near the bottom, "once held a stone with a slightly unique energy reading than the others. The holes are all cut to the right shape and size for these gems. It all adds up."
Chase asked, "Then, what is this?"
"It's probably a place-holder where the stones once resided. It was also likely the last place the eye of the Charybdis, but it was removed."
Justin let out a great scoff, "Then, a dead end."
Torrik shook his head, "No. It's not. One thing you must learn, Master Justin, any information regarding your quarry is useful in some way. This provides both evidence we are on the right track and gives us a glimpse ahead."
"What do you mean?" Justin asked.
Torrik pointed to the larger patch with the strange figure and writing. "We know of three eyes now, Fenrir, Hydra, and now Charybdis. However, there is something here that is the fourth. I know there were four items used, which I assumed was a fourth eye like the others. But, this one indicates something else, something bigger and more dangerous."
Justin asked, "What does this text say?"
EB hopped up and answered, "We don't know. That is the weirdest writing I've ever seen and I've seen lots. Looks like something from Lord of the Rings. You know, that cool Elf writing. Dontcha just love those movies! I mean, those elves were nice and cute... the girl elves that is. Some of the guys were kinda cute too, wait, forget I said that. You know, my companies were the ones who had all the contracts for the special candies for the movies and we did this one... "
"EB!" Justin bellowed.
EB grinned, "Oh, that almost sounded just like Nova. You're getting better at it."
Justin had a hand up to his face. "We need to translate this. It is vital. This is the first bit of information we have that might get us ahead of her. Chase have the computers scan this and search our database for anything even remotely close to it. Get in touch with all the antiquities authorities across Earth, this is vital."
"Right away."
Torrik gave her that flirty smile and said, "I'll be glad to help."
They left together for the laboratories where this replica of the tablet would be scanned into the computer.
Justin had to ask, "Why aren't you chewing through the bulkheads with jealousy? Torrik is a rival for Chase."
"He's just a flirt with all the girls. Not much for human girls, told me so. I trust him. He's a nice guy."
A robot announced, "Shuttle 423 arriving in bay one."
"Good, tell Gar to escort him up here right away."
EB frowned, "Who?"
"Midgard."
"Oh, him. He's okay, but I don't really like the way he yells all the time and can be so mean. Tried to eat me one time, like one little bunny snack. Thankfully, Vexillians are harder to pick on than he realized."
"I need him to answer some questions and I hope he is receptive to talk, because this situation is about to get out of hand."
"What situation?"
Justin said, "An unauthorized, impromptu attack on Lady Echidna's HQ."
"You found it?"
"Yes."
"Isn't it beautiful." Lady Echidna cooed at the glowing blue Eye of the Hydra. The teardrop shaped jewel rested in her hand as she rolled it around her fingers.
Nova looked over to the wall where there was a place to rest this object. "Why not put it where it belongs?"
She smiled at him and lounged back in her throne. "If I place it, then it will become part of the grand scheme. However, I can harness it later, at a time when I need a champion to stand between me and those annoying heroes. If they think Krampus's shadow is a menace to deal with, just wait until they contend against the Hydra."
Nova left her to pace around the ancient throne room. "Hydra is the strongest of your creations. The Charybdis is still out there, but not as dangerous as the Hydra."
Lady Echidna leaned back and propped her legs up on the arm of the throne, still musing at the blue stone in her hand. "Oh, my dear Nova, the Hydra pales in comparison to the apex monster. The creation I would have used to end this pathetic world if I succeeded in the past."
Nova turned, frowning at her, "I... I don't remember the fourth beast."
"You'll not remember that masterpiece, for it was you who stopped him and laid waste to my plans. I have selectively prevented you from recalling my ultimate weapon."
"But, my lady, I am loyal to you and you alone! Surely I have proven that!"
She clicked her tongue at him, "tsk tsk tsk, let's not yell. I know your weaknesses better than you. This is a weakness. I cannot risk you stepping in the way. I may need the fourth beasts powers to finish my scheme, but I still intend on releasing him at the right time."
Just then two people walked into the throne room from outside. Both wore BADGE uniforms, one in a science department outfit, the other a security guard. Both held guns at the ready. They suddenly dropped down to one knee and bowed their heads.
Lady Echidna sat up and smiled, "Ah, my spies. What news do you bring me?"
They bowed low and the one in the science outfit replied, "BADGE has not uncovered the Eye of the Charybdis. However, they did find something connected to the eyes."
She sat forward, "What? What have they found?"
The soldier answered, "A stone tablet with strange writing on it. I could not get a good look at it. But, it did not contain any of the eyes."
Nova asked her, "What is this? What does it mean?"
She was lost in thought for a moment and then gave him a severe look. "I don't know. This tablet... what is it? Could you have left yourself a clue? Was this part of the original temple I crafted? I need more information."
Nova looked down upon the two cowering spies, "Perhaps they could tell us more if I were to... encourage them to remember more clearly."
She stood and smiled as a serpent about to feast. "Interrogate them, drive out those memories. We need to know more."
"Yes, my lady." Nova directed the now frightened spies out of the throne room.
Lady Echidna casually said to herself, "Perhaps I need to consider altering my plans. I might need my most powerful beast yet."
"JUSTIN! I DON'T LIKE TO BE BOTHERED WHILE I'M HAVING FUN!" Midgard, in his human size, bellowed as he got off the lift for the Operations center. He shoved Gar away as he marched toward Justin. Gar fell back into the lift and disappeared when the doors closed.
Justin had learned to be like Nova around Midgard, retain a firm, unrelenting attitude and not let this loud creature get to him. "While you and your friends are having fun, you're messing up my day."
"What are you babbling about, Justin?"
The lift doors opened and Gar exited properly this time. "I found Midgard."
"Already established that," Justin stated and then picked up a computer tablet and pressed a button. One of the screens on the main monitor displayed a Nordic symbol of a large circular serpent biting its tail. Under that it read, "FAANG"
"WHAT THE HELL IS THAT?" Midgard bellowed.
Justin gave him a severe look, "The Foundation of an Altered Normal Generation."
Midgard returned that look with a furious, yet confused look, "THAT DIDN'T ANSWER MY QUESTION."
Gar said, "They are your group, right?" His tone was honestly curious.
Midgard made a growling sound that was much larger than his current body should be able to muster. "What? I don't have a group with that stupid name."
Justin pressed a button and several people appeared in the midst of combat. They were dressed in barbaric clothing that made them look like cosplayers at a local Renaissance Festival. "This is a group that, until recently, BADGE has considered a harmless problem. They're made up of people with either partial morphonic infused powers or completely infused abilities."
"Infused?" Gar asked while Midgard was still growling at the screen.
Justin said, "An infused hero is one who uses technology to either enhance their morphonic powers in their body or give them powers through the tech alone. We have a number of BADGE hero allies that are listed as infused. However, this FAANG seems to be made of them entirely."
Midgard drew dangerously close to Justin, "And why am I listening about this pathetic band of stupid humans?"
"Aren't they yours? They seem to have adopted an ancient symbol of Midgardsormr as theirs, they dress like Vikings..."
"THOSE AREN'T VIKINGS! KIDS MOVIES HAVE MORE REAL LOOKING VIKINGS THAN THOSE IDIOTS!"
"Noted," Justin calmly stated. "Regardless. They're loud, pushy, and have crossed a dangerous line recently. You, Midgard, are loud, pushy, and love crossing every line we set."
"I AM THE WORLD EATER! LINES MEAN NOTHING TO ME WHEN THEY ARE DRAWN BY INFERIOR BEINGS!"
"Noted," Justin repeated himself. "So, are you saying these people aren't with you?"
"No! I don't even know who these humans are! What have they done?"
Justin turned to the screen and swiped a finger across the tablet in his hand. A video activated. These rowdy people stood around their own operations center that was filled with computers and pelts. It looked like a Viking hall on the set of a B adventure movie.
"BADGE has proven they are worthless in finding the greatest hero this world has ever known. Nova has refused to work with us in the past, but now we shall prove to him how much better FAANG is than BADGE and he will join us. We will find him, free him, and defeat our enemies. BADGE is so pathetic that it cannot even defeat a single woman who has kidnapped the greatest hero ever! HAZZAH!" The transmission paused with the group all thrusting their fists in the air triumphantly.
"HAZZAH? WHAT KIND OF MORON THINKS A VIKING EVER SAID HAZZAH?" Midgard was so furious his eyes were glowing orange.
Justin said, "They're going after Lady Echidna to rescue Nova. Since you have a strange friendship with Nova, and they used a symbol related to you as theirs, and they... well... act a little like you, I assumed you were at least goading them along."
"I know nothing of these fools! I would eat them for tarnishing my identity!" Midgard started to calm down. "I am not responsible for their stupidity."
Justin gave Midgard a cold look and then said, "I believe you. However, that leaves me with a bigger problem than before. I don't know how to find them to stop them."
"BAH! Let them hunt for Lady Echidna. They will prove themselves fools searching where BADGE has failed."
Justin let out a soft sigh, "Actually, the problem is... they do know where to find her."
"How is this possible?" Gar asked.
"We have found a way to plant something so that we could find her center of operations. We believe we have pin-pointed a location. However, one of their members is a computer expert who was able to hijack the tracking signal and they got the same information. So, they know where to find her, Nova, and her little army. And, they intend on a direct assault, if their transmission is accurate."
Gar said, "But, they'll be killed. She is very powerful."
"They aren't without some merits. You know BADGE steps in when people with inadequate abilities try to be heroes. We protect them from themselves. But, this group, though mostly infused heroes, aren't weak. They have done some good work. They are very strong as a group, one of the strongest freelance hero groups on BADGE's records. My problem is, we can't let her know we know where she is. Also, this might prematurely set off some of her plans that we aren't ready for. And, of course, it will not end well for them."
Steam trickled from Midgards nose and mouth as he glared at the paused image on the screen. "That is not the problem they should be worried about."
Justin, hiding his fear well, asked, "What is it?"
Midgard turned and bellowed, "THEY USE MY SYMBOL AS THEIRS AND WILL MAKE FOOLS OF THEMSELVES! I WILL DESTROY THEM BEFORE THEY DESTROY HER!" He ran out of the room, barely getting into the lift without smashing clear through the doors to do so.
Gar looked at Justin, "What do we do?"
"Follow him. I can't have him murdering them. I'll see if I can talk sense into these FAANG people. Go!"
Gar ran for the lift.
Torrik and EB watched the ancient tablet floating in the middle of an energy field inside the laboratory. After confirming removing the real one wasn't going to set off anything dangerous, it was retrieved and brought to the station. Several BADGE scientists examined it with various sensors. A plethora of numbers rushed by on screens that seemed to intrigue these engaged minds while EB speculated wild guesses.
"What if, now hear me out, what if this is a recipe?" EB laid over on his belly as he watched the tablet hovering in mid-air over the table.
Torrik frowned, "Recipe? What for? Lady Echidna's favorite mead from ancient times."
"Could be. She's a pretty picky lady. High fashion, fine wines, music. I kinda like her tastes... if she weren't a nasty, horrible, Nova-stealing, witch."
The doctor walked into the room from a different lab. She had a computer tablet in her hands which seemed to have all her attention as she nearly ran into Torrik. "Oh, excuse me."
"No problem. Did you find anything?"
She looked up at the tablet, "Only that the energy readings seem to be residual."
"What does that mean?" EB asked.
"Just that the energy is left behind from something. Like a grass stain from sliding across the ground. The cloth isn't made of grass or growing any, just has it smeared on the surface. This only proves the theory that this once held those powerful objects. However, inherently, it has no power of its own that our sensors can detect."
"Oh, poo. So, that's a dead end," EB said.
Torrik thought hard for a moment as he peered at the object. "This doesn't belong to her."
"What?" Dr. Henderson asked.
Torrik pointed at the tablet and said, "Lady Echidna never does anything frivolous. Everything has purpose and meaning. This tablet wouldn't hide the objects, it didn't have any power from or over them. Why use it? What good is it to her?"
Dr. Henderson said, "It wouldn't be good for her."
EB said, "Come to think of it. She never came sniffing around for it. Her people are always in our faces when we are looking for this stuff. We had a big whole operation camped out on that beach and lotsa stuff in the water looking around. It wasn't a secret BADGE was on the trail of this. And, her minions weren't there."
Torrik smiled. "Good analysis."
EB grinned. "I have my moments."
Torrik said, "This could only mean that she is either unafraid of this, or this worries her. She doesn't want it around. In either case, we need to know more about it."
Dr. Henderson said, "Unless you can decipher those strange words on there, we're out of luck. Our computers were unsuccessful."
EB hopped up. "I have an idea. Oh, oh, this is really gonna work." He blasted out of the room at top speed without telling them anything.
"What got under his tail?" Torrik asked.
Dr. Henderson shrugged. "Just EB being EB. But, he does come up with a good idea now and then. While we wait on him, I'll run another decryption program and see if the computer can figure this out."
Justin paced around the operations center. He worked to control his temper as he was about to speak to people that always got under his skin. He paused for a moment and considered how much time he spent here dealing with what this job entails. It never really occurred to him how much time Nova spent here until it was his job. Then he realized that at almost any time, this is exactly where he found Nova working.
"Incoming Transmission; F A A N G league headquarters."
"On screen at once."
The main monitor filled with the interior of the FAANG HQ. Three people stood before him, with a man at the lead. All wore outfits like vikings and bore great beards, long braided hair, and tattoos on their faces.
"BADGE, I'm Jarl Red-Beard of FAANG. Why have you summoned us? We are preparing for a glorious battle!" The leader bellowed with a phony Viking accent.
Justin groaned.
The man behind Red-Beard yelled, "We shall drink and sing of our glory while BADGE is filled with shame at having not joined us in this great honor!"
"Cut the nonsense. I want you to know that we're fully aware that you hacked our system and have learned about the tracing signal to Lady Echidna."
"Then you know we drink and prepare for glorious combat that will echo throughout the aeons!"
Justin huffed, "This is embarrassing. You aren't vikings and that isn't Valhalla. I am ordering you to stand down and not continue this foolish mission."
The red headed man at the head burst into a deep laugh. "What makes thee think I am beholden to your word? You do not command FAANG! Thou must be insane!"
"Vikings aren't Shakespearean actors, that's just pathetic." Justin muttered.
The leader lost the phony accent, "Fine, act superior to us just because you are well-funded and live on that opulent spacestation. While BADGE sits around and crunches numbers and over-thinks everything, we'll prove FAANG are the real heroes. After we find and defeat this Lady Echidna, BADGE will be nothing but a memory while the rest of the world turns to FAANG for protection."
Justin let himself cool off, not responding in kind to this idiot. "I have not contacted you to merely request that you stand down. I actually wish to make you an offer."
This intrigued all three of them. The leader inclined his ear slightly. "Speak, I'm listening."
There was a part of Justin that really, really hated doing this, but he hoped they took the offer regardless. "BADGE has analyzed your strengths and also noted that you have acted on the behalf of justice and morality. Our evidence of your exploits has shown you are genuine heroes."
"HAZZAH!" All three bellowed.
Justin groaned under his breath and continued. "We also know that your team is made up of people with considerable strength. You could be a valuable asset to BADGE as a new, recognized league. You would be granted all the permissions and benefits of being part of BADGE while retaining your unique identity, location, and have enough freedom to conduct your own missions within reason."
"But..." The leader held out a hand.
Justin knew this was coming. "However, on global, serious matters, FAANG would be required to cooperate with BADGE rules and take orders regarding procedure in the situation."
"I told you! Did I not tell you?" The leader looked at the other two who were nodding. He then sneered at Justin, "BADGE is scared we will steal their thunder. They bask in the glory of saving this world from the big threats. Now, we come along and prove the world doesn't need BADGE and they are scared. You want us to sign away our freedom and become just more servants of BADGE. Then you will send us to defeat Lady Echidna and claim the glory for yourselves."
"Don't be idiots. This is not about glory or honor. This is about organized work, not chaotic heroes."
"We will defeat this lady and then we will be the true heroes of Earth. This is our time to shine."
Justin pleaded with them. "Don't do this! I have seen how powerful she is. You will need help, you will..."
"Enough of this. I tire of this conversation. We have a glorious mission. Keep an eye on the news, Justin, this battle will be historic." The leader shut off the signal.
"GAH! MORONS!"
Robot 10915 said, "Do you wish to reconnect the comm line?"
"No. They wouldn't listen to me. Get me Gar."
There was a long pause and then 10915 said, "I have audio communications with Agent Gargoyle."
"Put him through." After a beep, Justin said, "Gar, this is Justin. Report."
Gar said, "I'm following Midgard. He is big and stomping mad. He keeps yelling about finding this FAANG place. I don't know if he knows where they are. I guess that's a good thing, he would probably stomp them flat, or worse."
"No. I want him to find them. I'm sending you the location of them and what we know of the whereabouts of Lady Echidna. They'll be somewhere in-between."
"But, he'll eat them. He said so."
Justin said, "He may want to destroy them, but I'm betting a good fight with him might make them reconsider their idea to find Lady Echidna. I just hope he can intercept them before they get to her."
"Okay. I hope you're right."
"Me too. Justin out."
Torrik stood in the lab, carefully studying the tablet. Something about this writing on it seemed familiar, but he simply couldn't put his finger on it. He had even cast a memory enchantment on himself to help the thoughts congeal, but he still could not recognize any words.
"Sir, do you need something to eat?" One of the scientist asked him.
Torrik shook his head, "No. I want answers and I can't seem to find them."
"The rest of us are heading out for dinner. If you need anything, contact station Operations."
"Go on, have your dinner. I'll be fine." Torrik waved them out of the room, his eyes remaining fixed on the object before him.
There was a long, quiet pause as he was alone in the room. The strange computer devices were beeping softly and creating dancing lights, but they seemed utterly useless in his mind. Nothing provided answers they needed.
"Torrik, are you okay?" Dr. Henderson walked into the room.
"I'm fine."
"I was heading for dinner when I saw they hadn't sealed the lab. You can leave for a bit, get something to eat and rest."
"I don't need rest, I need answers." He said.
She said, "You sound like me. When I have a serious problem, I will set aside my health in pursuit of answers. It really doesn't help, in fact I find that it works against me."
Torrik said, "You don't understand. I haven't told Justin everything about my mission."
Dr. Henderson frowned at him and came around the table to draw his attention more to her. "What have you been keeping from us?"
"I wasn't keeping this from you because I didn't trust you, I kept it because I hoped you would never need to know."
"Tell me what you know. Any detail about this situation is vital."
Torrik said, "Months before I was sent on this mission, there was a strange incident at the Ghost Library..."
"The what?"
"It's a place where the memories of people are stored in mirrors and their image speaks from their memories."
"Fascinating. What happened?" She picked up a tablet to take notes.
"Some of the most ancient memory mirrors from the earliest days began giving out vague warnings. The memories within were recalling a time when something extremely dangerous was about to happen. They feared the world was about to end. A monster of incredible strength loomed in the distance and was ready to pounce. Our greatest minds studied the histories and spoke with these mirrors. All we could determine was that an apocalyptic event was stopped and that it's origins was the original home, the world we came from, Earth. However, they realized the event wasn't truly stopped, merely deferred. The end of a world was coming. And, if this world ends, so does ours. The two worlds are intricately connected."
Dr. Henderson took down some notes and then asked, "Why didn't you tell us this? Sounds pretty important."
"Because, my people believed it would be possible to upset this event again, to stop it before it started. We learned of the four beasts and knew that they had been reduced to gem stones. If we could obtain even one and keep it from the enemy, then the apocalypse would be deferred again, possibly stopped forever."
Justin walked into the room with Chase and EB at his side, "Sounds like your mission is more far reaching than you led us to believe."
Torrik said, "I apologize for not revealing all the details. I wanted to spare your world the fear this would cause. I really thought I could stop this more efficiently. I sorely underestimated our enemy."
"That is always the mistake that takes down the wisest heroes. If Nova has taught me anything, it is never to underestimate anyone. Don't worry, I still trust you, but I hope you have told us everything now."
"That is everything now. I just hope EB's plan works." Torrik looked down at the bunny.
EB smiled, "It will. Okay, so here it is. We were scared to have Chase use her powers to look into the past of this object because her doing this on those eye thingies has been bad. Like, totally bad. She was down for... well, you know the story. Anyway. When Dr. Henderson said this thing isn't magical, just has grass stains on it..."
"Residual energy readings," Dr. Henderson corrected.
"Yeah, that. Since it isn't magic, Chase should be fine. And, what better way of researching this than looking at its history?" He held up his paws to Chase.
Justin said, "Chase, you are free to do this or not. I know this magic has caused you serious problems already."
Chase said, "Sounds like we are facing the end of two worlds, a little headache is worth the risk."
Torrik said, "Maybe I can help."
"How?" Chase asked.
"I can't protect you from negative effects if there are any. However, I can project what you are seeing so we all see it."
"Really?"
EB asked, "How?"
"It is a seeing-eye spell, we use it with our trackers so we can see what they're seeing on the field. If her vision becomes that of the past she is seeing, then it should work the same."
"Sounds good. I'll get the popcorn..." EB was about to rush away when Justin stopped him.
Dr. Henderson released the tablet from the stasis field and it rested on the surface of the table. Chase walked over and spent a second preparing herself. With a quick motion, she grabbed it and everyone tensed up.
"I'm fine. I... don't feel anything wrong." Chase said.
Torrik put his hand up to her head and said a spell, a mark was left glowing on her forehead when he removed his hand.
A smoke filled the room and a projection lit up inside it. They all could see what she saw. The tablet in the lab, the scientists working on it, then it being brought to the station, then it being found in the waters of the sea. Time moved backward quickly for them. Once it was in the water, time zipped backward a blinding speed.
"Oh, it makes me dizzy," EB said.
Chase spoke as she continued searching this things past. "It takes getting used to. It's hard going this far back, my head is hurting."
Dr. Henderson said, "You can do it, I'm right here to help."
They watched the tablet suddenly lift off the seabed and float upward, returning from being thrown in. The tablet returned to the hand of some strange man in ragged clothes. He had others with him, all peering at it as he put a red stone into it, which he actually stole from it before discarding it into the sea.
"The eye! That was the Eye of Charybdis!" Torrik called out.
"Someone stole it in the past. But who?" Justin asked.
Dr. Henderson said, "I'm recording this, we can check with the historical computers."
Time continued backward as the tablet now rested in a room full of weapons and maps. They all saw Nova, dressed in strange clothes and armor, returning the blue Eye of the Hydra, which was when he had taken it to hide it in the past.
Chase held her head and groaned. "This is going too far back, I can't..."
EB hopped up and put his paws on her, an energy flowing from him to her, "Keep going! I'll help!"
She stopped being in pain and they watched Nova now returning the Eye of Fenrir. Then, both were removed in the past. Finally, he was carving something into the stone with a metal tool.
Chase fell down and held her head. Dr. Henderson rushed over and injected a medicine into her arm. The cloud vision evaporated quickly and the lab was back to normal.
"Chase! Are you all right?" Justin knelt down.
EB was right beside her with Torrik kneeling next to her as well. She said, "I'll be fine. That was just harder than I expected. Please, tell me you guys got all that, I can't do that again."
Dr. Henderson checked her computers. "Yes, the visual recording was complete. We have everything."
Justin said, "Doctor, send that to Operations, every station. Command all the robots to begin searching every last detail of the images, no matter how insignificant. EB, you're the expert on Nova, go help them look over the images. Point out anything that might be important."
EB gave a quick salute, "On it, boss," and zipped away.
Torrik helped Chase to her feet. "That was a brave thing you did."
"It was my duty."
Justin said, "I just hope this gives us an edge, something to go on."
The comms all beeped loudly and Strange Quark in Operations came through, "Justin, craps hitting the fan. Midgard is stomping all over the world in his search for FAANG, you've got some seriously pissed world leaders."
"Damn."
FAANG flew through the skies, some by powers while others used contraptions. The leader, using binoculars as he flew, guided them.
"I don't see anything," He spoke into his wrist comm.
A huskier hero sailed closer riding a device that looked like a windsurfing board, but with a propeller on the back. "All sensors indicate the signal to her headquarters is directly in front of us."
The leader looked at a small monitor on his wrist comm and then peered through the binoculars. "It should be right there. My guess is that it's well hidden. I say we strike first."
"But, we could hit a civilian target by mistake."
"I trust my gut. Head for this location and ready for an all-out fight. HAZZAH!"
The team replied in unison, "HAZZAH!" Then drove in hard toward their invisible target.
"My Lady!" One of her minions rushed up to her.
"Speak!"
He held up a device in his hands, "We're showing a team of morphonic humans approaching fast. They're focused on our location."
Lady Echidna glared at the device for a moment and then called out, "Nova!"
In seconds, Nova was at her side. "Yes, my lady?"
"How is it that we have been detected?"
Nova looked around, "What do you mean?"
"A team of BADGE heroes is on their way to attack us. How did they know?" Her tone dripped with accusation.
Nova bowed to her, "You must trust in me. I would not betray you. I do not know the reason we are under assault, but we can handle this. Your soldiers are more than strong enough to deal with most of BADGE's hero teams."
"No, they are not. These heroes have proven to be stronger and more resourceful than I expected."
Nova asked, "Why not just mesmerize them into your legion? Heroes could prove useful."
Lady Echidna slowly stood up and checked her gloves as a thin smile crept across her face. "No. These morphon infected humans tend to be more resilient to my power. Regardless, I think it's about time I send a clear signal to BADGE, a signal in blood." She walked toward the door, her heels making a sharp click with each step. Her soldiers readied to follow, but she held up a gloved hand, "No. I'll deal with them personally."
Gar flew hard to follow behind Midgard as he stomped his way across the world toward the team that dared to embarrass him.
"You're scaring people!" Gar yelled.
"GOOD!" Midgard bellowed in response.
Gar swooped around and saw people below scrambling away as Midgard marched over a vast distance. BADGE was going to hear about this from every nation this monster has made a path through.
"Are you sure you know where you're going?" Gar asked.
"YES. NOW LEAVE ME ALONE!" Midgard took a swipe at Gar like he was a gnat pestering him.
Gar fell back a little and then followed at a distance. He tapped his wrist comm. "Gar to BADGE Station."
Justin came through, "You have eyes on Midgard?"
"Yes. He's making a mess."
"I know. We've been fielding calls from national leaders across the planet."
"How do I stop him?"
Justin said, "Only Nova could do that. Truth is, Midgard is heading directly for FAANG, and they are just about to reach Lady Echidna's location."
"What do I do?"
"Keep an eye on this and report back to me."
"Understood."
Gar flew hard only to find himself slamming into the back of Midgard who had suddenly stopped. Gar fell five stories before catching himself with his wings and flying back up. "What did you stop for?"
Midgard was transfixed. Gar looked and saw something that has not been seen on Earth for centuries. A woman shrouded in shadowy black robes with a golden crown on her head stood on the top of an ancient temple. She cackled in glee as the shadow surrounding her lurched out and snatched heroes out of the air and eviscerated them in seconds.
FAANG fired weapons and powers at her, but nothing even got close. Everything was dissolved within inches of her. The shadow would grab another hero and rip his or her limbs off. She wasn't even moving, just had her hands up and the shadows did all the work.
"We have to help!" Gar turned to find Midgard just staring. "Midgard?"
All at once the shadow raced out and struck Gar, he fell from the skies straight down, slamming into the ground at Midgard's feet. Gar was unable to move, it was as though the magic that gave him life was frozen. The world went black for Gar and he experienced life as he had for centuries, a lifeless statue.
"Gar... Gar, are you there?" Chase spoke and he felt life returning.
Gar's vision returned and he could move his head. He saw Chase looking down at him with sky above and trees around him. "Where am I?"
"You are near the site...or former site of Lady Echidna's temple. Can you stand?"
Gar pushed to sit up and then nodded, "Yeah, I'm getting feeling back. I felt like a statue again. It was horrible."
"I imagine it was. Come on, Justin needs you."
Gar got to his feet and realized there was a legion of BADGE shuttles, agents, and other heroes standing around. Even Arx and his small team of ATLAS specialist were there. Justin stood inside a command tent with people working all around him.
Justin saw Gar and actually smiled, "Oh, good. I was worried something bad had happened."
"You know I'm indestructible," Gar stated.
Justin said, "I know, but with what we've seen today I have reason to worry."
"What?"
Justin gestured to the computer monitors on two of the folding tables. There was gore smeared across the ground as forensics teams diligently worked to clean up the mess. "This is all that's left of FAANG, not even one intact body. Lady Echidna's forces were merciless. To make matters worse, we haven't found any indication that any of Echidna's men even fell, they took no damage from this attack."
Gar said, "Didn't Midgard tell you?"
Chase stated, rather harshly, "Midgard left without even warning us that you were down. All we know is that he went back to his hole he likes to hide in when he's not terrorizing stuff."
"I will bother him later," Justin said. "What happened? What did you see before you were attacked?"
Gar said, "None of Lady Echidna's men were responsible for this, and I don't even think Nova was part of this battle."
"Then who did all this? I know FAANG weren't the brightest, but they were very strong heroes."
Gar answered, "They were nothing compared to her. She was surrounded by some kind of shadow power. She stood on top of an old building and destroyed them one by one. I watched it until she attacked me."
Chase asked, "She attacked you all the way back here? But, you were over three miles from the combat zone."
Gar said, "She didn't even move. I was arguing with Midgard when there was that shadow, that hideous darkness. That's the last thing I remember."
Chase said, "That's... horrible. She must be more powerful than we thought possible."
Gar became worried, "We are so close to her. We need to leave this area."
"Don't worry. She has already left. The location we tracked her to is completely gone. Somehow she transported that ancient building away and we have no idea where she is. It will take time to adjust our tracking to find her again."
Arx came in, the color in his skin drained. "I have never seen so many random body parts. I don't think I can... " He leaned over a trashcan and vomited. After a moment, he said, "Sorry. I've seen things I won't soon forget."
"It's okay. You don't have to go back out there, our teams can finish this. And, the robots working with Dr. Henderson and her people can handle this better. Thanks for bringing your people in to help."
"Glad to be of service. I came to report that we have identified every member of FAANG, none survived."
Chase said, "How do we face her? I thought Jinn was bad, but she did this alone without effort. And, she has teams of soldiers, Nova, and legendary beasts at her command."
"I don't know. We can't stop trying and so we must push forward. I did learn something today," Justin said.
Arx asked, "What's that?"
"We are woefully under-prepared and we have precious little time to remedy that."
"WHERE ARE THEY!" Lady Echidna shrieked in fury as she marched through the throne room of her temple. She looked different, more ancient and clad in a dark black outfit befitting an empress, not her normal luxurious attire. However, as she approached her throne, her clothes subtly changed back to her expensive outfit and her face returned to her beautiful visage.
Nova rushed in quickly and knelt, "My lady, who do you require?"
"My spies! Bring them to me, NOW!" She turned and sat on her throne.
Nova left and returned with the two men that had been assigned to infiltrate BADGE. He shoved them to the ground in front of her.
"Which one of you did this?"
Both trembled in fear and did not respond.
Lady Echidna stood with a shot, a crack of thunder rumbling through the room. "WHO BETRAYED US TO BADGE?"
"My Lady, neither of us would do such a thing," The soldier declared.
The scientist said, "Why would be betray you? We love you."
Nova asked, "In what way have they betrayed us?"
"BADGE sends a team to us, directly. They knew where to find us and how. One of these fools must have been coaxed into telling them how to find us. Or, they allowed themselves to be traced."
"There is no trace on them, I checked," Nova said.
Her gaze turned cold as she glared upon them. "Then, they betrayed us by mouth. And, for that, there is but one punishment."
Nova began to protest when an inky darkness seeped into their bodies and they both gagged for a moment and then fell over dead.
"Did you have to do that? They were a good asset."
"A piece of fruit might be delectable, but if it becomes rotten, it's taste is sour and unpleasing. You discard such worthless fruit." She stated and then returned to her seat.
Nova motioned for his fellow soldiers to come and clean up the mess. "Where have you moved the Temple?"
"We are safe, far away from prying eyes. That is all you need to know."
Nova said, "I guess we return to our task of locating the third eye."
"Not yet. BADGE challenged me this day. They are brave and foolish. I tire of fighting them at every turn. I think it is time to rid this world of them and all other pathetic creatures that would stop my return to glory."
Nova frowned, "What are you saying?"
"I think it is time to unleash my greatest beast."
Turning his sights on a pedestal where the Eye of the Hydra rested, Nova asked, "Are you sure you want to unleash the Hydra? It is an extremely powerful..."
"It is not nearly powerful enough. I don't want a distraction, I want utter ruin. I want all of BADGE and every other human on this planet to face the same fate as those who opposed me. The stench of their courage, the unsightly way they thrive on hope, and the disgusting manner in which they protect one another must be eradicated once and for all. Then, we will finally be able to locate the Eyes and return to our home."
"You mean to unleash the fourth and final beast," Nova said.
"Yes."
"Tell me, what is it? Where do I find this particular eye?"
She stood and walked up to him, "I still do not trust you with this information. Oh, don't look so glum, it ruins that handsome face." She brushed a gloved hand across his cheek. "This is my mission. I know exactly where to find my champion."
Nova took that hand from his face and kissed the back of it. "Please, include me in your work. I must be a part of your life."
"Oh, how I want to. But, I know what happened before, and I will not allow it to happen again. I will leave, with a small team of my soldiers. When I unleash this beast, you will know, the whole world will know. Be ready." With that she slipped her hand out of his loving grip and strutted away, gesturing toward the special ops of her people and they quickly followed.
Justin led his command team out of the shuttle into the station. Arx walked up next to him while he spoke on his communicator.
"Yes, I understand. Of course, get to it. I'll be there shortly." He clicked it off. "Director, there is a flooding incident off the coast of Alaska."
"Then you'd better get going." Justin waved him off.
Gar asked, "What do you need us to do?"
"There's not much to do except search for the Eye of Charybdis. Gar, I want you to work with Chase and Strange Quark in locating it."
Chase said, "We don't even know where to start."
Justin entered the lift, followed by the others, and they zipped off toward Operations. "I hope we have something from the details Chase perceived about that tablet."
Exiting the lift, they walked out into the Operations to find both Torrik and EB talking with several of the Robots.
Torrik pointed at a screen, "Does this mirror have details about the crown?"
"Affirmative. Details are available."
EB hopped along the computer stations and stopped in front of another robot, "Look up all the stuff about every person to have worn it."
"Historical data is available. Accessing data now."
Justin walked over, "What is going on?"
EB jumped up and landed on Justin, his feet against Justin's chest and his paws holding him by the collar. With an excited look on his face he declared, "We found it!!"
Justin stumbled back at the attack as he said, "Found what? Get off me."
EB jumped off and stood on a nearby computer terminal. "Okay, so I was working with these robots looking at all that stuff Chase got from the tablet. It was cloudy and vague, but so cool to see what she sees when she does her special time thingy. So amazing. Anyway, I saw some details about their clothes that looked kinda familiar."
Torrik continued, "We found enough details to pinpoint the time period and potential locations. This amazing computer wizard thing came up with a discovery. Apparently, in the same year as the stone was taken, a unique crown was made for the Kings of a land called Bohemia. When we got a good look at it, we think we have identified the Eye of the Charybdis."
EB hopped up and down in pure joy. "Get this, get this! The crown has this legend, a curse. Anyone who wears it that's not supposed to will die a gruesome death within a year. And, it has happened, recorded in history and stuff. Last guy was some Nazi jerk during World War 1...or 2... I forget. He put it on, crowned himself illegally, and then BOOM, he died at the hands of his own soldiers. So, That kinda makes it real that this has the stone. The magic of those stones is dark and bad, which would make for one helluva curse!"
Justin asked, "Can you put the details on the main monitor?"
The robots put all the various screens with data on the monitor. Right in the middle was this extravagant crown with the title, Crown of Saint Wenceslas, under it.
"SEE, that big red one right there." EB pointed at a stone that was slightly different than the rest.
Torrik said, "It seems that this particular stone was impossible to cut, so they set it just as it was found. Your metal golems said that without the gold setting around it, the stone would have a teardrop shape."
EB laughed, "Golems....they're robots, silly."
Justin said, "So, we just have to convince Prague to let us extract a stone from an ancient, beloved crown from the Bohemian Crown Jewels."
Chase smiled, "I could steal it... I'm a pretty good thief."
Justin gave her a slanted glare. He ignored her suggestion and gave his orders, "Chase, Gar, find Strange Quark and head for Prague right away. Dress in your finest and be as diplomatic as possible, we need to get that stone before Lady Echidna's goons and Nova show up."
EB hopped around, "What about me? I can be very diplomatic! You know that chocolate speaks volumes, especially in Europe."
"No, I need you and Torrik to keep working on that tablet."
EB asked, "Why? We know where to find the Eye of the Charybdis now."
"Right now, I want to know what is written on it and what that fourth symbol means. I just witnessed the kind of power we're facing and I have to ensure we take advantage of every possible avenue of information. You two stand the best chance of anyone on deciphering that, so get down there and focus."
"What are you going to do?" Chase asked.
Justin said, "I'm going to have to get through to Midgard. He's the only one of our allies who stands a chance against that kind of power."
"But, he ran away from her," Chase said.
"He has always played by his own rules, fought when it suited his entertainment. I'll have to convince him to follow orders and obey... which will take some work on my part. God, I wish Nova was here. He could always get through to Midgard."
"I could help," Chase said.
"No. I have to earn his trust, and standing up to him alone might be my only chance. We all have jobs to do, lets get this done before the world comes to an end."
Torrik sat on a stool in front of the tablet that floated again in the beam of light. The computers were in low-mode, simply processing data while the scientists were gone for the day.
With his head in his hands and his face down, he remained as still and silent as the shadows themselves.
"Are you asleep?" EB hopped into the room and jumped up to stand on the table next to Torrik.
Torrik shook his head, "No. Just lost in thought."
EB huffed and looked up at the stone tablet. "It isn't going to help just sitting here. But, I suppose you know that. Hey, I got an idea! Have a breakthrough."
"What?"
EB smiled,"You're looking for the big breakthrough, ya know, gett'n all the info right away with some flash of inspiration. Doesn't always work like that. But, when I'm trying to create the next big candy to take the market by storm, sometimes I get stuck just like this. So, I change my focus to a smaller part, something I can figure out, and then let that satisfy my need for advancing just long enough to rest for a bit. Feels good, cause I'm moving the right direction."
"That's actually wise. Okay, so how can I solve a small part of this?"
EB looked up at the tablet and smiled, "Hey, what if you review the video of Chase's vision about it. Maybe you can focus on a detail that'll help."
"Go ahead. I don't know how to work these magic machines. The images are stored inside them." Torrik looked around at the computers.
EB punched in a command and found the video. He impressed Torrik with his knowledge of computers, but the truth was he knew very little. However, playing a video was relatively simple. The images ran on the screen.
"I've watched this a dozen times. How can I find something new?" Torrik said.
"Dunno. Just try."
Torrik sat back. The video played all the way through. Just before it stopped, Torrik sat up, "There, stop it!"
EB hit the pause button. "What? Did you see something?"
"It has been right in front of me this whole time. I've watched him do that every time and never really added it together."
EB frowned as he looked up at Nova etching the words into the tablet. Which, from this point of view, was just Nova's face looking down since they saw this from the tablets prospective.
"You have your breakthrough?"
"Yes. However, this is the big one. Tell Justin, I'll have something for him soon." He reached over and pulled the tablet out of the beam.
Justin walked through the beautiful lands of the ancient Vikings. The green grasses and deep blue waters of the nearby seas were shrouded in a heavy mist from the morning dew. He stopped before a great metal door with runes carved into the surface.
"hurd myrkr!" Justin spoke the ancient Nordic words.
The great door slid down into a slot in the ground. Only one other person in BADGE knew the secret words to enter this place, and he was currently working for Lady Echidna.
Justin walked into the ancient ruins of a temple long forgotten by man. This place was the home of a legendary beast that was once feared by many and inspired great stories and songs among a people that have since passed into myth themselves.
Stone walls were cut deep with reliefs of serpents and monsters, gods and demons, all from the Asgardian myths of the old religion. However, this was no place of worship. It was a tomb with many men buried among the carvings. Those deemed worthy of divine burial by the only member of the Asgardian religion to ever truly live among mankind.
Delving deep into the great hall, Justin found a sorry figure seated before a roaring fire. In a chair formed of iron and bronze, Midgardsormr seemed lost in the flickering flames.
"I know why you're here, Justin."
Pausing in his approach, Justin said, "You do?"
"I froze. I couldn't stop her. She dismembered FAANG and all I did was watch. I, MIDGARDSORMR, taken by fear."
Justin approached him, "I've never hidden my feelings about you. You are dangerous, hard to control, impossible to contain, and enjoy breaking rules. When this world is in it's greatest perils, it is hard to trust that you'll take the time to use your amazing strength to defend us. At least, I always feared you would decide not to step in. Nova always knew you would do the right thing. And, he was right. Even though your methods are destructive, you have proven to be one of this worlds greatest defenders."
Midgard grabbed a healthy tankard of strong spirits and downed a sizable gulp. "Nova thought I was doing this to defend this pathetic world? Ha! I just enjoy a good challenge!"
"You can't fool me any longer, Midgard. I know why Nova always trusted you."
"And why is that?" Midgard's tone was a challenge.
Justin walked around to look this man in the face, "Because, you have honor. You hide behind a loud voice, rude attitude, and flaunting every rule. But, you have a choice to be a hero or villain and always choose hero in the end."
"Why are you here?" Midgard sank back into the chair and stared at the fire again.
"This world needs you. You saw what Lady Echidna is capable of, and you know what Nova is capable of. We are painfully under-prepared for this. I need to know that you're ready to stand with BADGE. No, not just BADGE, with the Earth. I can't wager on that honor to come through in the end, I need you on the team now."
Midgard pointed at him, "You just want me to make sure your plans work because you aren't Nova and he'd already have a plan to stop this."
"Yes!" Justin blurted out.
"What?" This admission surprised Midgard.
"I'm not Nova! I have to do this my own way. The safety of our world, and now another world, is firmly on my shoulders and I have to make this work. Please, don't ridicule me for not being Nova, I know my limitations. But, I have a plan and I need you to be a part of it. If I must beg, I am begging."
Midgard smiled, "I respect your honesty, few men have the balls to admit they need help."
"So, you'll help?"
Midgard looked away, "I can't."
"But..."
"I CAN'T! There is something in me that felt fear when I saw her fighting that team. Fear! I have never known that in my life, which is considerable. I..." He seemed as if he were wanting to say more, but he simply shook his head, "Go away, Justin, make plans that don't involve me."
"Has it come to this? The end of the world is heralded by Midgardsormr showing cowardice."
Midgard looked at Justin with great rage, but backed down. "Go."
Torrik sat in the grasses of the arboretum and cast a bright green spell on the tablet. EB stood nearby, watching with great curiosity.
Torrik spoke as he processed his spell, "Watching Nova etch this, I realized he wasn't speaking the words he was writing, he was speaking a spell. It is ancient magic that creates a language unique to the object being written on. Nothing else in either world would have this language. With it, he could conceal some message meant only for those who can disenchant his spell, which I am doing right now." The tablet flashed bright and then the light turned blue. Torrik began reading it.
EB asked, "Well?"
Torrik's whole demeanor changed. "By all that is Magical! This...I... we're in trouble! Get me Justin, hurry!"
Justin was almost to his shuttle when his comm beeped. "This is Justin?"
Torrik came through loud, "It's Midgard!"
"What?"
"The fourth beast, the creature Lady Echidna would use to end the world, it's Midgard. Nova inscribed a warning to never let Midgard return to his full strength, which can only be done through dark magic. Midgard doesn't even know. Find him, stop her from touching him!"
Justin turned and ran back, "I'm right with him, warn the station, I'm bringing him in, no matter what."
Midgard sat before his fire, pondering his place in the heroes and villains of Earth. Once he was feared, yet now the world looks upon him like a cherished hero.
A hand touched his shoulder.
"JUSTIN! I TOLD YOU I AM NOT GOING WITH YOU!"
Lady Echidna came around, smiling at him. "Oh, my darling, you have no choice."
"You! I will devour you!" He stood to take his full form, then he gagged and writhed as dark mist poured out of his eyes, mouth, and ears. "GAH! WHAT ARE... YOU DOING TO...ME?"
She pulled him closer, "Devour this world, my precious pet. Leave none alive."
Justin, bruised and bleeding, looked up from where his shuttle had been attacked. He saw a mountaintop explode as a monster rose from it. Justin reached over and dragged his broken comm to him and pressed the main button. The light flickered, it might not even be working, but he had to try.
"To all heroes, Black Alert, I repeat, Black Alert. Please, respond to my location, or the world will end today!"
The World Serpent, once believed to herald the end of all time, grew in size covered in a black, sick magic that crackled across his monolithic body.
"God help us," Justin whispered.
Before Midgard attacked:
Chase, wearing a lovely red dress, walked with Strange Quark at her side. He wore a blue tuxedo with a golden duck pin where a flower would normally be. Walking behind them was Gar, dressed as normal, but with a bow-tie around his neck at Quarks insistence. They approached the Prague Castle.
Chase took in a great breath and smiled, "I love Prague, the history, the art, the buildings, all so lovely."
Quark smiled, "I love this building, so Gothic."
Gar nodded, "Reminds me of many buildings in Rome."
Pulling out her special BADGE card, Chase said, "We can be tourist later. We have a mission."
Walking onward toward the amazing building, all three were allowed through several check points.
Gar casually said, "I wonder how Justin is doing with Midgard."
Quark replied, "No idea. Nova had a hard enough time getting through to the old world serpent, Justin might not even scratch the surface."
"Why would Justin want to scratch him? Does he itch?" Gar asked.
Quark chuckled at that while Chase said, "He means, Justin doesn't have much of a chance. But, things might be different now. Justin really has proven himself a worthy leader, and Midgard respects strong leadership."
A finely dressed woman approached them, "As you requested, President Pavel is waiting to speak with you in St. Vitus Cathedral." She held out a hand for them to follow.
Chase was amused by this, "I see. We weren't required to make a case before he decides to meet us in the cathedral? Very accommodating."
The woman said, "President Pavel is aware that if BADGE sends three of their highest ranked officials to meet with him, then he should respond."
A small contingent of security and this nice lady escorted them through the many opulent corridors of the ancient building. Soon, they walked through a set of doors that led into a classical Cathedral sanctuary, where an older gentleman and three security waited for them.
Chase approached and bowed, "Your excellency, I'm honored you have given us your time."
Gar and Quark followed with silent bows.
President Pavel smiled, "I'm honored to have such high ranking members of BADGE paying us a visit. However, I'm aware that no visit from BADGE is without serious cause, and potential risk to my country."
Chase straightened up. "I'm afraid you're correct. There's a great danger here, an object that must be taken to BADGE for safe keeping. However, I'm also afraid that it is currently nestled into an important artifact belonging to the state."
"The Crown of St. Wenceslas," President Pavel said.
Quark asked, "How did you know?"
"So many legends have arisen about that crown that our people have always felt it was abnormal. Then, in recent times, the United Nations sent inspectors to locate unique energy readings. They discovered something odd about the crown, but it was not morphonic, so it was not reported to BADGE. However, when you asked to meet me about a special visit to this cathedral, I had a strong feeling that the crown was the reason. Am I correct?"
"Yes," Chase answered. "I don't want to disfigure such an important artifact, so I ask that you allow us to take it whole. I promise the utmost care will be granted to it, and we will have the finest jewelers on Earth remove the stone in question before returning it. But, at this time, it has to be moved otherwise..."
All three of their BADGE comm units came alive with Justin's pained voice, "To all heroes, Black Alert, I repeat, Black Alert. Please, respond to my location, or the world will end today!"
"What is this?" President Pavel demanded.
Chase had lost the color in her face as she looked up at Gar and Quark. "Black alert... we haven't had one of those since..."
"Jinn," Quark answered.
The President asked, "Are we in danger?"
"I don't think so. The location on this is far from here. We need to go, find out what is happening." Chase said.
Before anyone could respond, a familiar voice asked, "Going so soon?"
Chase took a step back when her eyes fell upon Nova and a team of finely dressed mercenaries, all wielding the anti-morphon guns. "Nova, how..."
"Don't be an idiot, Chase. I was the one who hid the stones, I kept track of them for centuries. Don't you think I know where they all are?"
She took a step forward and readied her magic throwing stars. "I'm willing to take you down, Nova. I know what's at risk."
"You know nothing. The power Lady Echidna wields is far superior to anything you could possibly fathom."
Chase's eyes narrowed on him, "We only know that we must stop her, and we will. You trained us all too well for us to fail."
"Oh, I did, did I? Like this poor fellow." He gave a little wave with a gloved hand and one of his mercs tossed the body of the badge guard that had been one of Lady Echidna's spies. It landed in front of Chase.
"What did you do?" Chase looked down at the broken corpse.
Nova drew in closer to her, no fear in him as she threatened with her blades. "The battle for this world has already begun. Midgard was her fourth beast, a creature she used once and now has access to again."
"Midgard?" Chase frowned.
Quark gasped, "Oh, sweet baby Jesus...the Black Alert!"
Nova laughed, "Better head for the fray, little heroes. The World Serpent will consume all life and he will be nearly unstoppable. That is, unless you want to try and stop me from getting the Eye of the Charybdis." His eyes flashed that bright white light that Chase witnessed during the battle of Fenrir.
Chase stood back, "If you retrieve it and leave without harming anyone, we won't fight."
"You have my word." Nova smiled with the slick grin of a devilish politician.
Chase backed up, "Go."
Nova and his men headed for the secure vault hidden in the Cathedral of St. Vitus where the Crown of St. Wenceslas has been kept safe for centuries.
President Pavel demanded, "You have no right to go there! I protest!"
Chase kept a keen eye on the mercs and Nova as they went about their business. "No, don't interfere. We can't stop him and there aren't heroes left to invite to this fight, they're all trying to save the world from Midgard."
While the President threw out angry words, Chase watched Nova and his men return with the case holding the crown. They casually stepped over the corpse he had deposited and left the building. Nova remained for one moment to give his parting shot.
"Chase, let Justin know that if BADGE continues to fight us, it will only end the same way for all the agents as it did for that one on the ground. Only a flicker of light in his eye before death befell him." With that he left.
"I DEMAND YOU SEND A TEAM OF BADGE AGENTS AFTER THAT ARTIFACT. IT IS A PRECIOUS RELIC OF PRAGUE!" President Pavel bellowed at Chase.
Quark said, "Trust me, sir, if she hadn't let him go, we would all be dead. Besides, who can we send? The world is about to end and I don't even have a stiff drink to bolster myself before heading in to fight against the biggest badass in BADGE."
Chase walked over and knelt next to the man on the ground.
Gar said, "Should we go to the fight? If it is that bad, we need to help."
They waited while Chase simply looked at the man.
Quark said, "Chase, I can zap us all there right now, we need to go. It is a full black alert."
Gar, growing impatient, said, "Chase, what are you doing?"
She said, "Didn't you find that last word from Nova a little odd?" Reaching down she pried open the eyelids of the dead man.
"Do you see something?" President Pavel asked.
She nodded, "There is something in his right eye, like a fleck of sand. But, it is embedded. Quark, we need to get him back to the station now. If the real Nova is sending us another message, we need to decipher it right away."
"On it. Gar, you ready?"
Gar nodded.
Quark waved his hand and Gar was sent away to the fight with Midgard. Then, Quark and Chase vanished in a flash with the corpse.
Gar was surrounded by blue energy for a moment, when he appeared he was incredibly high in the sky, barreling toward a Midgard that defied all expectations. The World Serpent was so huge that clouds were being bisected by his arms as he swung them. His tail stretched across the ground, laying over mountains and into the sea. An entire village had been crushed by his presence.
Heroes swarmed around him, blasting powers and throwing large objects at his head. Midgard, red in the eyes, screeched in sounds that were no language but that of a thrashing beast. He lurched to the side after a massive volley of firepower from several heroes, and then turned and went to slam his enormous forearm across the ground, which would have caused a massive earthquake. Several dozen heroes joined together and emitted a collective barrier made up of ice, psychic, and general power. The arm met the barrier and was deflected.
Gar swooped down and flew along the ground, heading for a team of heroes racing toward Midgard. When Gar saw a giant green fist coming down to meet them, he flew hard and body slammed the first, moving it to the side just far enough to crash into the sea. Gar tumbled through the air for a moment before catching himself.
Landing on solid ground, Gar gathered his wits after that attack. Shinobi raced up to his side.
"Thanks for the save, that was impressive." Shinobi quickly jutted both hands forward and huge chunks of earth flew up and crashed into Midgards abdomen.
The Avenger landed near Gar and held up a hand. Energy came flooding off the side of Midgard. Using his other hand he returned the power as a full-on blast.
"What's the situation?" Gar asked The Avenger as he continued his attack.
The Avenger said, "This battle is... strange to say the least."
"Strange? I'd say this is impossible! LOOK OUT!" Gar quickly grabbed The Avenger and took flight as Midgard swept a hand across the ground, razing trees, buildings, and dozens of heroes at once.
Getting back to his feet, The Avenger said, "Thanks. I can't drain enough energy from Midgard, he is too powerful."
"Why did you call it strange?" Gar asked.
The Avenger was already scanning for his next opportunity to attack. "If I'm not mistaken, it's like he's holding back. This battle is.... I don't know, not as bad as it could be."
Gar watched Midgard knock two dozen heroes out of the sky with one blast of his energy breath. "I'd say this is pretty bad."
"I know energy, Gar, there is something not right about this whole thing."
"Are you saying he isn't as dangerous as he seems?"
The Avenger looked at a reading on a screen in his arm armor. "No, this is still bad. If we don't stop him soon, our numbers won't hold and he'll begin a rampage that could cost millions of innocent lives."
Suddenly, Midgard turned to attack their location, energy from his mouth and both fists pummeling the ground.
"Run!" Gar grabbed The Avenger again and flew away as many other heroes around did the same.
The ground exploded and then was crushed, sending seismic waves that rippled out across the Earth. Towns hundreds of miles away shook and took damage from each land crashing strike.
"I can fly!" The Avenger yelled.
Gar let him go and the cybernetic hero zoomed off under his own power, heading directly for Midgard's face. Landing on a cliff over the ocean, Gar thought how he would approach this battle. To his amazement, another Midgard showed up, a hero grew in size to match that of this world serpent and grabbed the real Midgard by the arms. They struggled against one another, each fighting in an epic wrestling match. Heroes continued to shower the real Midgard with powers and other weapons.
Gar's comm device activated, "Justin to Gar, report!"
"You won't believe this, but someone as big and powerful as Midgard is holding him at bay."
"I know, that is one of the mimic heroes. He can't hold out for long."
"What do we do? Do you have a plan?"
Justin said, "I'm sending help. Tell the heroes to go full throttle when they see the signal."
"What signal?"
"You'll know." Justin's voice channel clicked off.
Gar looked around, not sure what to expect. Suddenly, out of a flash of blue light came a large portal. Furious Squirrels Dirigible flew through with a bright blue hero standing on top, it was Strange Quark. Gar ran to the edge and took flight, gliding up closer to the battle balloon. He had his comm ready for the all-signal, unsure what this could mean.
To his great surprise, he saw two enemies standing inside the pilot house of the balloon, Private Eye Peyton and the gangster Rutkowski. Both were completely black and white and glowing with a bright white aura.
Midgard's body flickered and he lost most of his color. All at once, he froze as if all time had stopped. Gar realized this was it, he pressed the all-signal, "HEROES ATTACK, ATTACK, HIT HIM WITH EVERYTHING, DON'T HOLD BACK!"
The battle dirigible unleashed a massive volley of rockets and energy beams, Quark shot blue energy from the top, and heroes far and wide joined in and pummeled Midgard with everything they had. Gar simply held his position in the sky as he watched this onslaught of pure power. Was Midgard already finished and they were attacking something dead? Could Midgard even die? What happens if this doesn't work?
A blinding explosion erupted from the center of Midgard and everyone was thrown half a mile away in a perfect radius. The Dirigible faltered and nearly fell into the ocean while Strange Quark fell free from it and splashed in the icy cold waters. When the smoke settled, there was no Midgard to be seen, nothing remained of the bewitched monster of legend.
"Gar! Gar! Report!" Justin came through the comm.
Gar, on his back laying on a beach, held his arm up, "I think it worked. Midgard is gone."
"He can't be gone. He was huge."
"I don't know what happened to him. But, it's over."
Justin clicked off the comm channel and pointed at robot 10915. "I want all our damage control teams to that part of the planet on the double. Get me in touch with every world leader in the vicinity of that battle, I know they will all want an update."
"Understood, Director."
Justin clicked his comm again, "Justin to Arx."
"Arx here. That was one hell of a battle."
Justin said, "I know. I want you to lead the damage control teams on the surface. I want you to ensure the locals that we'll everything in our power to help clean up the mess. And, also send out as many agents and heroes as you can spare, I want to know what happened to Midgard."
Arx, sounding fatigued after that battle, answered, "On it, sir."
Justin left Operations and headed down to Dr. Henderson's main laboratory. The station was strangely quiet, since most of the agents and even the training robots were down on the planet. Justin had ordered every available person and robot to join the conflict. The stakes were far too high.
When he got into the lab, he was met by Dr. Henderson and her nurses. They stood around the body of the agent that Nova had unceremoniously returned to them.
"What did you find?" Was his greeting.
Dr. Henderson said, "This man was killed by a strange power, something seeped into every cell of his body and turned it off. I'd say he didn't suffer, but I don't know for certain..."
"I want to know why Nova returned him and what possible advantage we can garner from this."
Dr. Henderson pointed at the dead agent. "His life mattered."
Justin calmed down from his stiff attitude, "I know. I hate to lose anyone. But, if we don't find a way to stop this, he'll not be the last to die. In fact, many died today, most of them innocent bystanders who were caught in the battle zone. So, I want answers, something to find the solution to this problem."
"I did find something. Nova left us a cryptic clue." She turned to a computer monitor and activated it. There was a fleck on a bit of microscope glass. "We found this in his eye. At first, I thought it was nothing. But, it was unusual to find something buried that deep in his eye. So, I had the computer magnify it. What I found was this." She zoomed and enhanced the image.
"A tiny computer chip?" Justin looked at the small device.
"It is hardly enough to hold any data, but there was a single line. A sentence that reads, 'To defeat your enemy, first you must know who they are', and then a series of numbers." The numbers appeared on the screen. "My guess is these are coordinates."
"Where do they lead?"
She said, "That is the strange part. This leads to the middle of the Mariana Trench."
"Looks like we are diving for clues now."
Dr. Henderson asked, "Are you sure we can trust him?"
"No. But, I have to find out what this is about, it is all we have."
Midgard, in his human form, washed up on the shore of a distant, cold beach. His body battered, his face bruised, and no breath coming or going.
A woman knelt down and turned him over so he was facing the sky.
"You fought well, but not well enough. You held back. I don't know why, but I will find out. Now, come with me, my pet. Your job in ending this world has not been completed." As she touched his face he gasped in a great breath and opened his eyes. They remained glowing red and he expressed no emotions.
Gar flew quickly with a massive boulder in his hands. Heroes raced back and forth from where the waters were threatening the cities. A BADGE shuttle zoomed up near him, with Arx at the controls. Arx’s voice boomed out from the speakers.
“Hey, Gar, we have the floods under control around New Zealand. Put the focus on Tasmania.”
Gar gave a nod and turned slightly in his flight. Dozens of other heroes carrying large objects joined him. One by one, they threw the massive boulders at the shore of Tasmania to hold back the raging seas.
Landing on the beach, Chase and the local head of the military joined Gar. She asked, “What does it look like from above?”
“The water is getting calmer,” Gar said. “But it’s still pretty bad.”
The military leader asked, “Does BADGE know where these strange disasters are coming from?”
“Not yet. But we’re stopping them.” Chase said and then pressed a button on her wrist comm. “Arx, how much more do we have to take care of?”
Arx flew over them as he answered through her comm, “We have it under control. The local Leagues should keep an eye on things, but I think the rest of the heroes can take off now.”
“Good to hear.” She clicked her comm off and spoke to the military leader. “Arx will be in touch. If anything seems to be getting worse again, don’t hesitate to contact him.”
He shook her hand. “This ATLAS program is certainly a welcome blessing for the world. BADGE is doing a great job.”
“Glad to hear it.” She walked over and Gar picked her up. They flew away toward the landing zone ten miles inland.
A large military boat rocked hard in the heavy waters far away from land. On the deck stood a legion of mercs and Nova in his finest attire. Inexplicably, he stood firm while the boat continued to bob heavily. His eyes were fixed on the distance as he watched the heroes finish their work. From this point, the heroes appeared as gnats against a blue sky.
“Sir, BADGE is through. We can return.”
“Send the divers down. I want to see that tomb. This wasn’t supposed to happen. I want to know how our tampering with the tomb of the Hydra caused the ocean to turn so turbulent.”
“Understood.” The leader of the mercs gave swift, rigid motions with his hand and everyone raced to their duties.
Quickly, ten mercs, dressed in their diving suits, delved into the ocean’s surface. The leader of this crew had a special contraption with cameras and lights on it.
Chase sat in the meeting room for the ATLAS program on the station. Arx walked around, checking files and computer tablets. As usual, he wore his ancient Greek outfit as his desired hero outfit.
“I love what I do, but I hate the paperwork.” He put a file down and signed a form, then turned the page and groaned at all the more places he need to sign.
Chase checked over a tablet and then set it down. “I know. But, this keeps the bureaucrats happy, and that keeps BADGE in the good favor of the nations.”
He stuffed papers into an envelope and set it in a basket. “And that’s what we’re here for, to keep the politicians happy.”
“No, ATLAS is here to protect the world from natural disasters. But, it is the perfect program to keep BADGE in a good light. After the World Corps tried to destroy our reputation, and now Nova is acting strange, we need good PR all the time.”
Arx asked, “Do we know anything more about Nova? I mean, you guys fought him at that Fenrir incident. Where did he go?”
“We don’t know. Justin is on that, as are many others. We have a lot to figure out before we go hunt for him. Obviously, whatever this Lady Echidna has done to him has made him impossible to deal with. And I still can’t shake the last images of him I have in my mind. He is... well... not human. And it scares me to think that.”
“Why? EB isn’t human, Gar is living stone,” Arx said.
Chase laughed, “True. But Nova is more than just not-human, he is something extremely powerful. From what I can tell, he and Lady Echidna are of the same origin. She is terrifyingly powerful. What does that make Nova?”
“I don’t know.” Arx set the last paper down.
Chase let out a long breath and then looked at Arx, “Why do you wear that flimsy outfit? It looks comfortable, but you can’t really fight crime in that.”
“I’m not a crime fighter. I’m a natural disaster response coordinator. You know my powers are limited. I can’t make it as a real superhero. But, I can do this.”
She shook her head, “Powers don’t make a person a hero.”
“True.” Arx shoved the papers and tablets over on the table and activated the hologram generator, prepping it for the meeting. “Truth be told. I like how I look. I mean, I have worked my whole life to look good. I partly crafted this body through science, but I also work out a ton and like showing it off. Nothing wrong with that.”
“I guess. Though, if I’m gonna be honest. I rather a man have a little hair on him.”
EB seemed to appear out of nowhere, standing on the table, grinning seductively at Chase. “You don’t say?” He was rubbing his paws on his furry chest.
“How did you... oh, those ears of yours.” She let out a disgruntled huff.
EB came closer. “You don’t get much hairier than a fluffy, cute, bunny.” He was now bouncing his eyebrows at her.
“EB, you know that I... “
“Off the table!” Justin came into the room, angry as ever.
EB hopped over and landed on a chair. “Right-o boss man.”
Chase asked, “Justin, are you okay?”
“I’m fine. Report!” His attitude was short and downright furious.
Arx turned on the simulation in the middle of the table, showing a scaled version of the recent ATLAS effort. “The ocean went craze around the Tasman Sea. From Scamander, Tasmania, to Jamestown, New Zealand, there were massive floods. Minor damage occurred right away, but ATLAS was able to mitigate that quickly. I ordered large boulders be placed in around the beaches to create breakers while heroes with water related powers worked to calm the seas.”
EB stuck his little hand up and hopped up and down. “I used magic to make the waters go way down. Though there were some gnarly waves and great curls. I mean, like serious surfing opportunities, if it wasn’t risking your life to try. Hey, what about a surfing contest? We could have a BADGE retreat and get all the heroes to bring surf boards, oh and get some hot beach babes to...”
“EB! Not now!” Justin demanded. “Do we have any indication of what started this?”
Justin’s stern attitude visibly startled Arx. He softly answered, “Uh, no. However, we have detected abnormal energy readings under the ocean.”
“Abnormal energy readings are not enough. I want answers. Chase, get on top of this, now. I have a meeting with the head of the UN.” Justin said no more and just left the room.
EB, his ears tilted back, cautiously looked over the table at the other two. “What’s up with him?”
Chase said, “I don’t know. But we all have jobs to do. Arx, keep a watch on that situation, be ready with ATLAS at a moment’s notice. I’ll see if we can figure out what caused these floods.” She left with EB as Arx
Nova stepped into the grand throne room of Lady Echidna, taking a moment to bow. Behind him was the small legion of his best warriors.
Lady Echidna, seated upon her throne, looked into a beautiful mirror. “You return far earlier than I expected. Tell me you were more efficient than I believed possible.” She smiled at her own reflection.
Nova stopped in front of her and knelt down on one knee, and bowed his head. “We found the tomb of the Hydra, but it wasn’t there.”
She gazed upon her own beauty for a moment before slowly lowering the mirror. “How is this possible, my pet?”
“I don’t know. I had my men search every inch of the tomb. There was no sign of the Sapphire Eye.”
“Pity.” She set down the mirror and gracefully stood. “You still recall all of BADGE’s activity before I cleansed you?”
“Yes, My Lady.”
“Did BADGE ever recover the Sapphire Eye?”
“The Tomb was never discovered.”
She walked past him toward one of the four walls. On the surface was a relief carved into the stone of Fenrir. They had placed the red glowing stone in the eye of the relief. “I need all four if we wish to return to our rightful world.”
Nova stood, brushing off his five thousand dollar slacks. “There was one interesting thing about the tomb of the Hydra.”
“Don’t keep it a secret.” She turned back to him.
“The tomb itself was untouched. When we opened it, it set off a powerful magical spell that stirred the ocean so much that it activated BADGE’s ATLAS defenders.”
Her cool demeanor broke slightly. “Spell? You mean something one of those nasty little Vexillians placed?”
He shook his head, “No, my sweet. It was no simple Vexillian spell. This was far more powerful. It was a tiny seal on the tomb and yet it nearly destroyed New Zealand.”
“Did the island survive the torrent?”
He nodded.
“Too bad. This raises a big concern. We may have a third party in our little game, one that has a high stake in our failure.”
Nova frowned, “You don’t think it could be...”
She nodded. “It has to be. Who else would even know of the hydra and try to seal the tomb?”
Nova looked at the relief on the next wall of the multi-headed hydra. “If they have taken it back to Yohan, then we cannot hope to proceed.”
“Don’t be foolish. They would never take a cursed object back to their pristine little world of magic. It has been hidden here, in this world. And I suspect it was hidden recently.”
“Why? It has been buried for over two thousand years. It could have been moved any time over these centuries.”
She laughed and walked back to her throne. “No. If they had come seeking it before now, they would have contacted you while you were this world’s defender. With your noble heart, you would’ve helped them, as you did with the Eye of Fenrir. They would also have sought the others, such as the Eye of Fenrir, and yet it was exactly where your friend hid it. No, our enemy felt the power of the battle with Fenrir and it alerted them to the danger. It is the only logical conclusion.”
Nova asked, “What do we do? How do I find the Eye of the Hydra?”
She turned and sat down. “If it has been taken, it was taken for a reason. They either know what we are doing, or simply know they must keep the eye from us.”
Nova said, “Then, we look for it.”
She laughed, “Of course. But the problem is, they know we are actively seeking it. Thus, they’ll be waiting for us. The heroes of this world proved their determination by defeating both the shadow of Krampus and the shadow of Fenrir. I don’t want another major confrontation until I am ready. We must approach this differently.”
“So, what do you propose we do, my lady?”
With a wicked laugh in her chest and a daring gaze in her eyes, she said, “If someone from our former world is here, then they have crossed The Great Divide and opened a portal. Even if they have returned, the portals aren’t so quick to close. Perhaps we can use that to concoct a distraction.”
“What sort of distraction? You know we cannot return yet, they...”
“I’m well aware of our banishment!” she snapped at him. “No, we won’t try to go through. Only when we have all four eyes can we hope to fully return. However, we can cause havoc, which will buy us time.”
Justin stood in the middle of the Operations center, right where Nova normally stood. With a stoic gaze, he watched the monitor in front of him. Small windows were open to display the ongoing repair and aid to the flooded areas. Other screens displayed readings and charts for daily processing.
Chase walked into the room with a tablet in her hand. “We have triple scanned the area and worked out the metrics. Looks like everything is back to normal.”
Justin took the tablet and glanced at it. “Any indication this is connected to our clue?”
She shook her head. “We can’t find any evidence that these floods were part of that strange water drop gem Nova left in Midgard after the Fenrir event.”
“It can’t be coincidence.” Justin stated and slapped the tablet back in her hands. “Tell our teams to keep looking.” He walked away, heading for the office.
“Stop right there,” Chase demanded.
Justin paused and turned with a deadly stare. “What?”
“Don’t try to scare me with an intimidating gaze. You’re acting rude and short with everyone. What’s up?”
“I’m doing my job, and I hope you will find the time to do yours... which does not include psychoanalyzing your commanding officer. Get to work.” He left her for his office.
Letting herself cool off, Chase turned to the nearest robot. “Get me Krystal Fae.”
The robot connected the comm lines. A small window opened on the monitors and Krystal looked at her from an outdoor location. “Krystal here.”
Chase said, “I need you to take the team back to the Tasman Sea and check it again for any connection between the Lady Echidna situation and these floods.”
“We scanned the area with every available power and sensor and found nothing of worth.”
Chase said, “Get all our aquatic people on it. Look over the ocean floor again and find something to either prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that this is not connected, or find the connection. Justin won’t be satisfied with anything less.”
“I’ll get our people on it.” Krystal cut off the comm channel.
Gar walked into Operations from the main meeting room. Strange Quark was with him, drinking Tennessee Moonshine from a bottle using a crazy straw.
Chase asked, “How did the meeting go?”
Gar smiled. “It went well. The Prime Ministers of both Australia and New Zealand were very happy with our work and the people are happy as well.”
Quark finished a rather long drink and then said, “Yeah, they want to list all the heroes’ names who helped stop the floods. I told them we couldn’t give out all the names, some are secret. I suggested they just give BADGE and their local leagues, a big thank you. That’ll be good enough.”
“I’m fine with that,” Chase said.
Gar frowned. “What does Director Justin have to say?”
“He is not in a good mood... “
“Still?” Quark asked.
“Yeah, he’s not himself. But I’m sure he’ll be fine with your suggestion.” She picked up the command tablet. “Gar, I want you to take Operations for a while. I have to go do something.”
“Okay.” He accepted the tablet.
Quark grabbed her arm as she started to leave. “Hey, you don’t sound like you’re heading for a potty break. Where are you going?”
“I need answers.” She said.
Quark shook his head. “You aren’t going to try to connect with that water drop thing again.”
“I have to try.” She protested by pulling away from his grip. “Nova is still missing and in more danger than any of us want to believe. Justin is growing angrier by the day, and we’re going in circles trying to figure this out. That clue has something important I and I must find out what it is.”
Gar gently said, “The last time you tried, it only hurt you.”
“I was tired. It was too soon after the battle with Fenrir.”
“Justin said not to try again until he was certain it would be safe.” Quark said.
Chase retorted, “Justin is hardly in command as he sulks in his office and barks orders at people. He doesn’t know where to go with this investigation and I’m tired of waiting for something terrible to happen. We barely stopped that Fenrir thing and it was just a shadow. The Shadow Krampus killed people. What next? We sit around and wait for an actual monster to show up and flatten a metropolis while Justin refuses to put real effort into this?”
Justin surprised all of them as he said, “Fine. You think you know better. Go investigate that water drop. Do what you want.”
Chase shook off her surprise and said, “I will. And when I find answers, you’d better be ready to act on them.”
“Don’t worry. No one here wants to find answers more than I. Go, find them.” His tone was bitter and almost resentful. He said no more and returned to the office.
Chase waited for a moment and then left without saying anything to the others. The only sound present was the slurping sound of Quark’s silly straw.
“I hate this place,” Lady Echidna stated as she stood on an icy hill clothed in the finest winter apparel money could buy.
Nova, in a bright while arctic suit, held up a pair of special binoculars and scanned the area. “I know. This place brings back terrible memories.”
They walked down the icy hill, away from a special landing craft that was surrounded by her soldiers, all dressed in thick, wintry military gear.
“What is that?” She pointed over at a large glass domed city.
Nova said, “That would be New Meta City, a BADGE facility.”
She turned on him with a sharp glare, “You told me BADGE wouldn’t be down here!”
“And I didn’t lie, my sweet.” He responded to her with a gentle smile. Looking once again through the binoculars, he said, “New Meta City isn’t a military or observation installation. It is a haven for meta humans who do not wish to be heroes. In fact, many people in there are at significant risk due to their unusual powers and that place is the only way they can live a normal life. No one there is looking for us or working for any Hero leagues. There is a minimal BADGE security presence. The only transport is one that brings supplies down once a week and sometimes transports new residents.”
A terrible glint in her eye gave off a mischievous plan forming. “So, you are saying there are super powered humans in this city?”
“Yes.”
“Then, perhaps we could add them to our little group and harness that untapped strength.”
Nova shook his head, “Most of the people there are so weak in their powers, they aren’t of any real use. The rest either have powers that are not useful in combat, or are in need of containment all the time due to the risk of killing themselves.”
“Do I detect that old Director Nova sentiment in you? You are protecting them from me.”
“Hardly, my lady. I only wish to prevent you from obtaining unworthy subjects. Tactically speaking, they are more likely to hinder your plans than help them. And, if we do any harm to New Meta City, it will instantly alert BADGE that we are here and I don’t think you want a confrontation at this time.”
“True. They shall be left alone... for now.”
“However, I believe I see our target.” He handed her the binoculars and pointed in another direction.
She looked through them and saw a flickering purple light near a wide field of snow. “That does look like magic. My guess was correct. The magical barrier between worlds is weakest down here, especially after what happened to us. This was the perfect place for them to open a portal.”
Nova said, “We need to get to it in case it’s closing. It’s a two days walk for us. We can’t use any powers to move quicker, or the global sensors will pick us up.”
Lady Echidna shoved the binoculars back in his hand and snapped her fingers. Five of her men rushed over to do her bidding. “Time to move. We have a long walk, gentlemen.”
“Yes...my...lady.” The leader shivered so hard he staggered as he walked.
Lady Echidna hardly noticed his discomfort and marched ahead with Nova directly behind her.
Chase walked down the corridors of the Space Station. EB hopped along with her, chattering the whole time.
“Don’t be angry. We’re all under a lot of stress.”
Chase said, “We’ve been under a lot more stress, and Nova never treated us like that. Justin is way out of line.”
“He’s doing his best.”
She slapped a panel, and the door opened to the next hallway. “The only way this operation works is if we are all on the same page. He is a shut book with nothing but angry looks and few words.”
EB hopped ahead of her and then bounced backwards as he talked to her. “Look, you gotta be understanding. Justin is a great guy, like one of the totally best leaders under Nova. And I’ve known Nova for a long, LOOONG time. I don’t say that lightly. I remember this one time when Nova was still working outta Rome, he had this one general who was a complete dolt. To be fair, back then Nova was undercover all the time, so they thought he was just another member of the Italian military. But, anyway, this General Mastrovito was like all about flirting and politics and chocolate. That wasn’t so bad. He liked the chocolates I made. He didn’t know I made them, but I made some really good liquor filled chocolates that were a HUGE hit. Didja know I invented the whole liquor chocolate thing. I... OW!” He had hopped backward into a wall.
Chase turned another corner and said, “I don’t care. Justin has no right to treat us like he has been.”
EB, rubbing the back of his head, ran alongside her. “Chase, wait... STOP!”
She stood still and looked down at him. “What?!”
“Chase, you have to give him time. Nova was a good friend of his as well. Nova personally trained Justin. Justin looked up to him. Now, quickly, Justin has been given the biggest job in the world. And he’s gotta hunt down his former boss. We all know Nova is nutsy because of what that witch has done to him, but that doesn’t make it any easier. You were bamboozled a while back too, and that made us all upset. So, just... try to be understanding.”
She knelt down and brushed his head. “Okay, I’ll try. But I’m still going to see if I can figure out this clue Nova left us.”
EB followed her. “I know. That’s why I’m coming with you. Someone’s gotta be there if this goes wrong. I like Dr. Henderson, but she ain’t a mighty, magical bunny.”
They walked down several more corridors, moving through several security checkpoints. Security robots stood in place to keep anyone out who might try to get through.
Putting her code into the panel, a door opened into a high-tech lab. Dozens of computers lined the walls while various sensor equipment hung from the ceiling. Everything surrounded an energy field where the teardrop shaped blue object was suspended.
Dr. Henderson stood in front of a computer, checking data. A man was on the screen talking to her. “Thank you, Dr. Hostetter.”
“Any time. I’m sorry I wasn’t of much more help.”
“You did fine. I’ll be in touch if we need anything further.” She cut off the transmission. Standing up, she greeted them, “Chase, EB, I was waiting for you when Dr. Hostetter came back with his analysis.”
Chase asked, “Why ask him? Isn’t he a geologist?”
“Yes. I sent him all our scans and data on this thing. If he could tell us what this was made of, it might help. But he couldn’t find anything like it in all of his research. As far as we can tell, it isn’t made of a mineral from the Earth... if this is mineral at all.”
EB hopped up onto a moving tray and looked at the little object. “It looks like liquid water inside.”
“Yes, but it doesn’t register as water. In fact, it only has an arcane energy reading.”
“Magic?” EB asked, “But I don’t sense normal magic in it.”
“Nothing about this is normal,” Chase said.
Dr. Henderson asked, “Are you sure about investigating it again? The last time you tried it... “
“I know what it did. It took me a full day to recover. But there were other factors that could be part of that. We have to try. We are getting nowhere with finding Nova or Lady Echidna, learning more about their plans, or explaining why we suddenly have watery disasters right after getting this strange water relic.”
“Okay, but I’ll be right here to make sure you get immediate medical attention if this doesn’t work out.” Dr. Henderson stepped back and picked up a sensor device.
EB, still standing on the tray, said, “Be careful.”
“I will.” Chase slowly reached up and put her hand through the energy beam. She wrapped her fingers around the object and closed her eyes.
There was a moment of nothing, then she tensed up and gasped. “I... I see Nova. He is holding this. No, now he is pulling it from something. Wait... ah... I see faces, fangs, a monster... MY HEAD.... AHHHH!” She lurched back, her hand gripping the teardrop.
EB clapped his paws together and then threw them apart. A bright light flashed between her and the teardrop and she was thrown away from it. Dr. Henderson rushed over with her medical scanner.
“Chase! Chase! Are you okay?” Dr. Henderson asked.
Chase, laying on the ground and shaking, looked up at them. “I think... I know what this is.”
“Please... stop... I can’t... go on.” One of the mercs working for Lady Echidna fell down in the snow.
Nova ran back to the man, “My Lady, we’re not equipped for these conditions. This snow gear isn’t strong enough for a regular human body.”
Standing a good distance from her crew, Lady Echidna let out a long sigh and then turned back and pointed at a different soldier. “Fine. Head back to the shuttle and make sure he doesn’t lose any limbs. He’s no good to me in pieces. Nova and I will go on. I’m sure we’re safe without your help.” Her tone betrayed a complete lack of care for their safety.
Nova helped the man up and then gave him over to a pair of the others to head back toward their landed shuttle. After seeing they left, he made his way to the side of his mistress.
“You must remember, these humans aren’t as sturdy as our kind.”
She shook her head, “Once, we commanded legions of beings who could march across the deepest depths and tallest peaks without losing any strength. Now, we are stuck with sub-standard apes pretending to be a coherent society.”
As they walked, Nova asked, “If you loath them so, then why have a legion of them around you to do your bidding?”
She paused and looked back at him with a judgmental eye. “Are you questioning my wisdom?”
“Yes, but only because you seem to be standing in a contradiction.” His tone was congenial.
With a smile and a gentle pat on the side of his face, she answered him, “I don’t doubt your loyalty. You proved that to me when you retrieved the Eye of Fenrir. However, you must understand my logic. I don’t have a legion of humans around me out of any weakness on my part. They are there to do things that must be done without others realizing it is actually us. Besides, having them with me enforces the fact that humans are only worthy as our servants. When others look upon me and see my army of well-dress, handsome warriors, they will see the correct choice of servitude over death.” She spent a moment in thought and said, “I will admit, if I wish to maintain such an image, I should at least keep them alive and take into consideration their weakness. You have, as you are so good at, proven your wisdom in my service.”
He bowed his head to her. “Always yours, my lady.”
“Good. Now, let us find this portal. I’m eager to cause some havoc in our dear old realm.”
Chase opened her eyes to the glowering sight of Justin standing over her hospital bed. EB twirled around on the doctor’s stool next to her bed while Dr. Henderson checked on vitals.
“Oh, my head feels funny,” Chase moaned.
Dr. Henderson nodded, “It should. Your morphonic powers were rebounding and caused quite the stir in you. But you’ll be fine.”
EB stopped twirling around and said, “Oh, good. You’re awake. They still won’t let me see if a kiss will wake up the sleeping princess.”
“Good. The last thing I need is a slobbery kiss from a furry idiot.”
“Hey! I only wanted to help.”
“Sure you did.” Chase sat up.
Justin coldly stated, “I hope this was worth it? Did you find anything?”
Chase returned his unfriendly attitude with one of her own. “Yes, it was worth it. And, what I found, none of your sensors would ever detect. That isn’t a clue.”
“What do you mean?”
“I mean, it is living. This is why I had so much trouble checking into it before and why it messed with my head. I can’t use my power on living things.”
EB asked, “If you can’t, then how do you know anything about it?”
“It was living, then turned dormant. This object was part of a terrible creature once, but I don’t know what kind. I do know at one point Nova defeated it and then ripped this thing out of it. He then hid it. However, recently he retrieved it and the last thing I could see was him putting it into Midgard during their fight.”
Justin asked, “Where did he get it? Where was it hidden?”
“The information was quick and in tiny pieces. So, I don’t know. And, when I pushed into the past of the object just beyond his defeat, I encountered a terrible beast of incredible power. It stared back into me and that’s when EB broke the connection.”
“Do you know what this beast was?” Justin asked.
“No. All I got were demonic faces looking at me and the sense of water. What I believe is that this is an object like that Eye of Fenrir. This is the magical core of some terrible monster that Lady Echidna wants. Nova used his fight with Midgard as a method of passing it to us to keep it safe.”
“I don’t know,” Justin stated. “Nova helping us while he is also helping her still doesn’t make much sense. He has harmed our agents and heroes, he has handed her the Eye of Fenrir, he nearly killed Midgard in a battle and allowed a shadow form of Fenrir to run wild. These aren’t actions of someone helping us.”
EB hopped up on the bed and pointed at Justin. The bunny was as furious as he could be. “My buddy may be enchanted by this witch, but there is still our Nova in there. I know it. He’s trying to help us. He would not turn against this world. I have known him longer than anyone in this room. Hell, I’ve known him longer than most living beings in this universe. He is not our enemy, and if I hear one more word like that from you, then…”
“THEN WHAT!” Justin yelled, “One more word from you and I will have you removed from BADGE permanently, and don’t think I can’t!”
“You wanna try me, big shot!” EB beat his little chest and glared at Justin.
Dr. Henderson came up. “Cool down, everyone. This is not the time for yelling. Justin, apologize.”
“Doctor!”
“Justin. These people are your best hope of saving not only BADGE and the world but also our dear friend and leader, Nova. Do not treat them like this. Apologize.” She sounded like a mother right now, which only helped.
Justin turned and huffed, “Fine. I’m sorry. Now, we have work to do.”
“Justin,” Chase stopped him, “If this is another artifact like the last, then we have to know someone will come looking for it.”
“And we will be ready for them.” He left the room.
A BADGE agent walked along with four robots moving crates of supplies. He stood inside a massive domed city with green grasses, flowering trees and shrubs, and children playing in a park nearby. Streets lined in pleasant homes and shops bustled with activity. People went about their lives with a smile on their faces. A few were either solid red or bright green, or had an extra arm or leg, but for the most part, they appeared as normal people.
A woman in a suit walked up. She had bluish silver hair and bright white eyes with no pupils. “Good morning, Agent Willis. I see we got our shipment right on time.”
He handed her a tablet to be signed, “Would BADGE let your down?”
Scribbling her name on the tablet, she said, “I have been worried about the state of things. The World Corps incident left us a little worried and then Nova going missing added to the concern. We depend on the support of BADGE.”
He took the tablet back. “Don’t worry. EB promised to put aside a large portion of his fortunes to help fund this place in the incident of BADGE failing.”
“How sweet of him... oh, that was a terrible pun. Excuse me.”
Agent Willis laughed at her. “Fortunately, BADGE is operating fine. Nova’s disappearance did little to stop that. So, for the foreseeable future, shipments will be right on time.”
“Good.” She bid him farewell.
His robots finished unpacking the crates and then walked with him back to the entranced. He walked into a bay that had a door which led into the icy cold of the world around this pristine little community.
Just before he got into the shuttle, a man walked up who was half goat, with horns on his head and the waist to hoof of a goat. His abdomen up to his face was that of a well-built man.
“Can I help you?” Agent Willis asked.
“Does this shuttle go to the BADGE place?” This stranger asked.
“Yes.”
“I would like a ride, kind human.”
Willis shook his head. “If you want to reapply for power inspection and potential League placement, you’ll have to contact BADGE administrative offices. Talk to Mayor Sherri, she...”
The man waved his hand, and a purple mist came out. “Please, just take me there.”
Agent Willis smiled again, “Of course. Right this way.”
“I could’ve taken him.” EB said as he hopped along with Gar.
Gar turned a corner and headed for the laboratories. “I can’t believe Justin yelled at you.”
“I might’ve provoked him by yelling at him first. But he was saying just the nastiest things about my bestest buddy, Nova. I know Nova is acting strange and has done some really bad things, but he is still also sending us clues. I just know he isn’t totally on her side. He’s like a double agent, or something. But, Justin... Sheesh... that dude needs to act better or I am going to shove an egg where... “
They both turned a corner and came face to face with Justin. “Where?”
EB glared at Justin and folded his little arms. “You don’t wanna know. Just remember this one thing, bub, I may look like a cute little fuzzy bunny and love to make candy, but I’m one of the most powerful, magical creatures on this planet... and don’t you forget that.”
Justin gave EB a critical glare for a long moment and then coolly said, “That’s what I need you for. Come with me.” He turned and walked in the same direction EB and Gar had already been walking.
They made it to the laboratory with the teardrop artifact hovering in the same energy field it has resided in since arriving on the station. Dr. Henderson checked readings near it and Chase stood beside her, simply looking at the object with a touch of fear in her eyes.
“Chase, good, you’re here.”
Chase said, “I don’t know how much help I can be. I told you everything I saw.”
“I know. But does this spark any other thoughts you obtained? Any tiny detail could help us?”
She looked at the teardrop for a long moment while everyone waited. She said, “I just know Nova had something to do with this thing, more than simply giving it to Midgard. Other than that, I also know it truly is the heart of some terrible beast. A magical relic like the Eye of Fenrir.”
Justin looked at the teardrop as well. “Then we must conceal it so our enemy cannot easily find it.”
Dr. Henderson said, “I don’t know if that is possible. Nova was extremely brilliant. He understood everything about BADGE and our technology. He might not have been able to fully use it as a specialist, such as myself, but he understood it better than most. Anything we use to hide this will be at risk of his knowledge, and I don’t think we have time to invent anything new.”
Justin turned around and looked at EB. “That is where you come in.”
“Me?”
“Yes. You said it yourself. You are extremely powerful. Your magic is unique. Could you conceal this with some kind of spell or magic that will hide it from our enemy?”
EB nodded, “I think so. I can put it inside a magical eggshell that will block any kinda sensor device or magical means of location. I mean, this stuff is really totally great at hiding stuff. I once made this for...”
“Not now.” Justin cut him off. “Do it.”
Gar asked, “What good would that do? They will know we will have this on the station.”
Justin answered, “If we can hide it in something, then we can move it. If they can’t see where it is, then we can move it without them knowing. From there, we can put it in a place Nova won’t so easily figure out.”
Chase said, “Nova gave this to us to keep it safe. That’s the only reason he would do this. Lady Echidna got the Eye of Fenrir, but she must also need this.”
“Precisely. And we’ll do just that. EB, get to it.” Justin stood back.
EB hopped up onto a rolling chair and held both his paws up in front of him. He concentrated with all his might, and a white ball of energy formed between his paws. Suddenly, a large egg-shaped object popped into existence around the floating teardrop. It looked like a piece of carved marble with exquisite decorations etched on the surface. The egg plopped down and rolled to the side, completely unfazed by the energy beam.
Dr. Henderson turned off the energy as Justin reached over and picked up the egg. “It’s heavy.”
“Of course it is. That isn’t just any ordinary egg or even chocolate egg. That’s made of pure Vexillian Marble, which can only be conjured by the most powerful of my kind. It’s enchanted to block all sensor devices. Nothing, and I mean NOTHING, on this station can read inside that shell. Promise.”
Dr. Henderson scanned the egg. “He’s right. This scanner is the most precise scanner we use in the labs and it cannot penetrate that shell.”
“Told-ja.” EB grinned.
“Can you make four others?” Justin asked.
EB frowned, “Four? Well, sure, but it takes a lot outta me to do this. Might need to rest.”
“They don’t have to be perfectly like this. Just visually. I want this to be identical to the others.”
“Okay, I guess. I’ll get to them. Gimme a sec.” EB started concentrating again.
Justin hardly cast a glance at EB, let alone thank him for this, as he turned to Gar. “You’re also impervious to most sensors. You read as stone and are indistinguishable from most other stone on the planet. I want you to take this and prep five shuttles for departure. Get four other robots to take places on each one, each sending a false signal to read as stone. Give each of the robots a fake egg. Then, leave and take this egg to a destination that will be sent to you from our ground operations in Kenya.”
“Where will I be going?” Gar took the egg.
“I don’t know, and that is the point. No one on this station will know. And, the Kenya station will only have a computer generated response for you, which will be wiped after a one time signal. Take the egg to the destination and you will know what to do when you get there.”
“I will?”
Justin commanded, “From this point on, none of us will refer to this teardrop or anything else about it. We will call it ‘the egg’, and that will be the code. At no time, on any official or unofficial communication line, will you refer to this as anything but ‘the egg’.”
Justin stood in command in operations, with Chase and EB beside him. They all watched as the five shuttles departed the station’s docking bay. They didn’t even know which one contained Gar and the egg.
“I hate sending him out there alone with that. Who knows if Nova will find him?” Chase said.
EB waved his paw in the air. “Don’t worry. Aint no one finding that egg with the amount of magical protection I gave it and Gar is made of stone... magical stone at that. It’s all good.”
Justin said, “No, it isn’t good. We might be hiding that thing, but that is only a temporary measure. We need to know what it would do. Why does Lady Echidna want it? What is she up to? We are leagues behind her in understanding her schemes, and I don’t like it. We have work to do.”
EB hopped up onto a computer console and sat down. “Look. We have wracked our brains for days trying to figure all this out. Maybe a little R and R would be nice for the afternoon. With that teardrop thing gone, and well hidden, we can watch a movie in the theater or better, we can watch a round of simulated battling. The Fifth precinct has scheduled a big simulated battle with Fenrir and I love watching them in action.”
“No, we don’t have time for that.” Justin said.
EB said, “A little down time can’t hurt. I mean, Nova would let us if he were here.”
Chase was about to say something when Justin simply started yelling. “We don’t have time to relax! The whole world is waiting for us to find answers and fix this! You can sit on your furry butt and laugh about this all you want, but people are in grave danger, the world is in terrible danger and we don’t even know why! I don’t care what it takes, but we have to solve this! I have to fix this! And, for the last time, it is THE EGG, and that is all! I don’t want to hear another word out of you other than ‘yes sir’ and ‘no sir’! GOT THAT!”
Chase grabbed his arm. “Justin! That was uncalled for.”
He shook her hand off. “I’m Acting Director Justin, your commanding officer. If you two want to go and take in a movie, be my guest. But don’t expect to come back to your positions. I’ll find agents who are willing to do their job.”
“You can’t possibly mean that.” Chase took a step back.
“Try me.”
Before anyone could answer that challenge, a warning sign came over the screen and a robot announced, “Undocumented magical presence detected approaching station.”
“What? Where?” Justin demanded.
“Shuttle A313, on approach.”
“The New Meta City supply shuttle?” Chase said.
Justin pointed at another robot. “Contact that shuttle.”
There was a long pause and then the robot said, “No response.”
Justin said, “Close all shuttle bays.”
“Shuttle already entering bay alpha. Unable to close bay doors.” A robot announced.
Justin clicked his comm unit. “Station at Red Alert, everyone to battle stations. Potential intruder.
“I want people down there, now!” Justin yelled into his comm.
He watched as all the security camera's active footage was on the screens before him. Legions of BADGE agents and robots filled the docking bay. Several trainee heroes were also there.
The supply shuttle’s back hatch opened and everyone took aim. The pilot stepped out and instantly jerked upright and put his hands in the air. “Don’t shoot!” He cried out.
Justin quickly tapped his comm. “Team leader, inspect that shuttle. Take the pilot...” He paused when suddenly vines came growing up out of the metal flooring with roots spreading out across the flat surface. People and crates were shoved around. Something dashed out of the shuttle just before all the footage was of vines and leaves.
Yells, gunfire, and a strange clopping sound came through the audio.
“He’s so fast!” “What is that?” “I’m tangled!”
“Report!” Justin yelled.
The team leader’s voice came over his comm. “Someone just exited that shuttle and we couldn’t get a single shot off. He was moving so fast. These damn vines are everywhere and they’re holding us down. We need backup.”
“Do what you can. We have to contain this intruder.” Just clicked off his comm.
Chase, next to Justin, readied her own blades. “Whatever this is, it has just made a mockery of all our defenses.”
“You and EB get down to the main floor, join the team down there. Do not let whatever that is get any further into our systems.”
EB hopped over onto Chase’s shoulder and put two pawed fingers up at his eyes and then back toward Justin. “We’ll go handle this, and then we’ll discuss with you just how replaceable we really are.”
“Not now.” Chase tossed the bunny off of her and headed for the lift.
Chase ran out of the lift with EB bounding ahead of her at his unnaturally fast pace. The remaining defense forces of the station joined them. They sealed doors in all the high security sections, leaving very few places the intruder could go from the shuttle bay.
Arx came running in with members of the TALOS team, “Justin just activated us. What’s up?”
“Intruder alert,” Chase said.
Justin came over her comm. “We’re reading the magical signal heading in your direction.”
“We’re ready and waiting.” Chase held a throwing star in her hand.
EB materialized two exploding eggs while Arx got his fists primed for a good fight.
For a moment, there was just silence around them. Then, a creaking alerted them to something happening. All at once, vines burst up from under the deck plating, breaking parts of the floor. Several agents had become entangled and thrust up into the air as they were at the mercy of these plants.
“This is magic! Here!” EB let his eggs vanish and then slapped both paws on the deck plates. A wave of blue energy spread out, and the vines were all stopped, then shriveled, and ultimately crumbled away as old, dead plants. EB continued to hold the decking. “I have to keep this up. There’s a powerful magic trying to make this place a jungle, which is kinda cool, but really annoying at the same time.”
The clicking of guns and sudden tension caused Chase to whip around and see their enemy approaching. She was taken aback by the sight before her. A man who was half goat from the waist down, and half man from the waist up, approached. He had horns on the sides of his head, and long, chestnut hair flowing down around his shoulders. His cloven hoof feet making a distinct clop with each step.
“My god, is that a satyr?” Chase whispered.
The man smiled at her. “So, you know what I am. But I’m not entirely sure what you are. Witch, sorcerer, demon... I don’t really care. I’m here for the Eye of the Hydra, and you won’t stop me from getting it.”
Chase took a bold step forward with Arx right beside her. “I don’t care what you think I am, but you aren’t getting anything from us.”
“I have fought many more powerful than you. Don’t push me. Just give me what I came for and I’ll leave your strange flying fortress.”
Chase said, “You’ll stand down.”
“Not today.”
Chase threw her blades at him, intent on cutting a few of those long locks away from his head as a threat.
“Slita!” He said with a strange, echoing voice, and the blades vanished.
She waited for them to return to her hands as they always did, but nothing happened. “What?”
He laughed, “Pretty weak magic.” Crouching, he prepared to run. “Okay, enough of this. I have a job to do.”
Chase calculated his movements and at the moment he dashed, she moved to the side and whipped around with her elbow meeting him in the chest. He flew back and skidded across the ground. The moment he came to a stop, Arx was right at him with a fist swinging at his face, but the Satyr ducked one swing and then dodged the next. However, the third swing met him in the gut and the Satyr fell to his knees.
“Take aim!” Chase commanded, and all the guns in the room were ready to strike down the enemy.
“Nice, you’re worthy fighters. But, not worthy enough.” He slapped a hand onto the decking and a vine grew up quickly, throwing him into the air. The laser fire from the agents’ guns hit the vine where he had been.
He came down with a hard smash into Arx and then quickly kicked Arx into Chase. Both tumbled away. The agents were now firing wildly at him, but he dodged their weapons with incredible agility. With one last slide across the ground, he blew across his palm. A spray of what looked like sparkling pollen bathed the room and the agents all fell into a stupor and acted silly. No longer were they even concerned about the enemy, they were more concerned about playing patty-cake with one another. Even Chase was dazed by this cloud of magical dust.
The Satyr stood up and laughed at them as they played with each other. However, a fist met him in the back of the head and he staggered forward.
Arx grabbed him by the arm and swung him around, and threw him across the room into the dining tables in the mess area.
Tangled in chairs, the Satyr rubbed his head as he said, “Why didn’t that work on you?”
Arx smiled. “I’m resistant to a lot of things. I guess your little sparkle attack is one of them.”
The Satyr smiled and fought with the chairs for a moment. “You are a well-built man. Nice chest, great legs, and some rock hard abs.”
Arx smiled as he flexed a little. “I know. Award winning body. You aren’t so bad yourself. What do you bench?”
The Satyr was to his feet, brushing his shaggy fur on his legs off. “Bench?”
“I am around 800lbs.”
The Satyr smiled with a sneaky grin. “You don’t look that heavy, but you certainly could use a prize for such a fine body. Here, have a flower.” With a quick stomp of his hoof, a flower erupted from the deck plating and wrapped around Arx with binding vines. The massive sunflower on the top came down and pressed Arx against the decking.
“Hey! Not cool, bro!” Arx struggled with all his fine muscles, but he was no match for this floral opponent.
“Now, where did they hide the Eye?” He looked around, only finding a bunny blocking his path. “What... someone lost their pet?”
EB glared at this man, “Pet! I ain’t no one’s pet!” He quickly threw an exploding egg at the Satyr.
With little time to respond, the explosion threw the Satyr back into the tables again. However, this time, he responded with an explosion of rose vines that flew at EB.
EB hopped up high and then came down quickly. A wave of purple energy blasted from him and the vines all vanished. He then threw five more eggs at the Satyr.
“SLITA!” The Satyr ran to the side, his echoing voice caused three of the eggs to vanish, but the last two erupted in blue flames where he had been standing.
EB hopped around, “You like them eggs, Mr. Goat Cheese! Try these!” He zipped around the Satyr throwing egg after egg, each one exploding either with smoke or fire as it hit.
“HLIF!” The Satyr cried out and a bubble of energy formed around him and blocked the attacks.
EB stopped his circular path and merely stood in one place and threw a steady stream of exploding eggs at the barrier around his enemy. “TAKE THAT YOUR HALF-NAKED PATHETIC EXCUSE FOR A FARM ANIMAL!”
The Satyr slapped his hands together, “ENOUGH!” A wave of energy erupted from him. Both EB and this Satyr were flung away from each other. The barrier and egg attack were both cut off.
EB sat up and saw his enemy getting to his hooves.
The Satyr looked back at EB with shock and surprise in his face. “You’re magic… you are...”
EB didn’t give him the chance to speak. He threw one last egg and hit the Satyr in the head. He went down and held his face.
“Had enough!” EB ran over, two exploding eggs ready to strike.
The Satyr sat up and said, “You’re Vexillian.”
“Yeah, so?”
“I’m from Yohan.”
The eggs in his paws both evaporated and EB stepped back, “No... It can’t be...”
The blistering winds circled around the finely dressed pair in the middle of the barren wasteland of the south. The dark, starry skies cast a deep shade over the landscape. However, a glimmering, bluish glow flickered on their faces from a hole cut in the middle of the air.
“This is the exact spot where we first fell.” Nova commented.
Lady Echidna smiled, “Yes. Little did we know that our fall from grace was the greatest gift they could offer us. This world was so weak, so young, so ripe for expansion.”
“The magic was almost completely gone from this world. They stood no chance with us here.” Nova said.
She laughed, “I know. I wish we could go back and experience that utopia again. But, alas, we cannot.”
A particularly blustery gale crashed into them, and each held tight to their warmer clothing. Nova yelled over the gales, “The cold may not affect us as it does humans, but I still would rather leave this place as soon as possible.”
“I completely agree.” She said and waited a moment as that wind passed. “Now, to set new events into motion.” Reaching out, she went to put her hand into the glimmering hole in the air. An energy barrier rejected her. Pressing her palm into it, it appeared like a thick plastic sheet covering the opening. “Clever, very clever. Whoever came through was no fool.”
Nova put his hand on the barrier as well, “This can only mean that whoever came through is still here. This kind of spell cannot be cast from the other side. We should be leaving.”
“I do not fear any little fool who came through. They are no match for either of us, especially me.” Stepping back, she held a hand up and a black energy blasted the sealing spell.
Nova said, “Are you sure about this? It could have been more than one person, or they could alert BADGE.”
“When did Nova, the ArcBlade, become so worried about trivialities?” She mused, not addressing his concerns at all.
Nova let out a deep sigh and then said, “I can break this. You know I have the power... “
“You will not use that power. I will not allow it. Just stand there and look pretty. I shall take this down and then set our minor distraction into motion.”
Justin stepped out of the lift, with Chase beside him. The Mess hall was repaired and cleaned up after the battle. Several carts rolled by with large cuttings of vines piled in them. The broken floor plates where some vines had grown through were cut out and being repaired by the staff engineers.
“Remind me why I’m going to meet this person in our arboretum and not in the brig?” Justin coldly asked.
Chase said, “Because EB said we can trust him.”
“That’s not exactly a vote of confidence I would trust.” Justin stated.
Chase said, “EB may be silly at times and have questionable judgment about some things. But, if he says someone is trustworthy, I would listen to him. We both know how devoted he is to those he trusts.”
“Still, I’m not dismissing the guards just yet.” Justin walked through the mess directly into the large arboretum that made up most of the central level of the station.
Inside was a world completely different from the sterile, mechanical life of the BADGE space station. It was a grassy, tree filled haven for nature to flourish. Flowers were in bloom, honey bees buzzed about collecting pollen and nectar, and about twenty specially armed BADGE agents stood at attention around the room.
In the middle of the room, sitting on a boulder near a pond, was the Satyr chatting amiably with EB as he let a butterfly land on his outstretched finger.
Justin was halfway across the grassy field when EB noticed him and zipped over. “Great, awesome. You gotta meet this guy. He’s really cool and knows lots about magic and fighting, and is from Yohan. Can you believe that? Yohan!”
“What exactly does that mean?” Justin asked.
The Satyr stood and smiled at Justin, “Yohan is short for Yohan’anon’da, the name of the lands in which my people are from. Specifically, I’m from a region of those lands known as the Shakonohey Valley, west of the land of the Jade Elves.” He stuck his hand out. “Torrik Treeleaf, at your service.”
Justin did not shake his hand. “I’m Acting Director Justin of BADGE. Care to explain why you attacked my station?”
Torrik was unfazed by the unfriendly attitude of Justin. “A few months ago, in our world, we detected an ancient magic, one that once nearly destroyed our world and yours. Our scholars consulted the memory mirrors of Idore and discovered the four keys were active again. The four Eyes of Darkness. One had already been partially activated. They ordered me to come and find the others and bring them back to be sealed away so that The Fallen could never get their hands on them.”
“Are you talking about the Eye of Fenrir?”
Torrik nodded. “That was the first. But it wasn’t what we detected that alerted us. Someone is using dark, shadow magic. A forbidden magic that caused great turmoil many, many years ago. The person behind this, The Queen of Black Magic, was sent away during the first days of our realm just after our kind left this world.”
“Your people came from this world?” Chase asked.
“Yes. Eons ago, this was our world as well. We left, but that is another story. Right now, we know that once in the past, The Queen tried to rise to power here and use that power to break the seal that keeps her from returning to our realm. She needs four elements to do this, the four Eyes of Darkness. A noble hero once sealed away them, one of the original ArcBlades, but that was so long ago and somehow she has escaped. Now, here I am to find the elements and stop her.”
EB hopped around, “See, that is sooo cool. We Vexillians knew of the people of Yohan, but that was a loooong time ago. This whole thing is so amazing, like a real fantasy playing out. We could all play along. Hey! Let’s play some DnD. I’m always a Barbarian. Justin, you can be a Paladin, Chase is a thief, and Torrik is a total Druid. I mean, wouldn’t that be so cool? And... I’ll shut up now.” The burning glare of Justin interrupted EB’s exuberance.
Justin cooled down his irritation and said, “This all sounds pretty fantastic. All I know is that you bypassed a lot of security measures and nearly took out all our defenses. You tell us this story and all I have to believe you is the word of this idiot.”
“HEY!” EB retorted.
Torrik took a casual step toward Justin. “I’m here to help you and my people. From what EB has told me, which he told me a lot while we waited for you to arrive, this world is in grave danger. The Queen is up to something terrible and she has a good friend of yours trapped. I’m the Captain of the Royal Special Service and there’s very little you can do will stop me. I’m only standing here, obliging you, because we have mutual interests and I want to believe you are honorable. But if you decide not to listen to me or believe me, I’ll be on my way... and I don’t need your permission to leave.”
Justin spent a moment sizing him up and then said, “Chase is correct. If EB says you’re trustworthy, then I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt. But, don’t take us for weak. You might have bested us before, but you haven’t faced the strongest heroes allied with BADGE.”
“Oh, don’t be a spoilsport. Torrik ain’t gonna start any fights, are ya, buddy?” EB said.
Torrik smiled at the excited little bunny. “No. I’ll do my job and try to stop this catastrophe from happening.”
“Fine.” Justin said, “But while you’re here, I’m in charge. This is our world and BADGE is my responsibility. You’ll work with us and listen to my orders.”
“I will be glad to be part of the team, for now.” Torrik said.
“Good. Chase, find him quarters on the station and then bring him to the briefing room so we can all get on the same page about what’s happening out there.”
“My pleasure.” She smiled coyly at Torrik.
EB noted this and instantly lost his zeal.
Torrik stepped over to her. “Chase, that is an interesting name. I love chasing things.”
She blushed and said, “This way, I’ll show you to the guest quarters.”
EB followed behind them as they walked ahead, muttering to himself the entire way.
“I don’t like him.” EB said with a touch of bitterness in his voice.
Arx, seated at the same briefing table, asked, “Why?”
EB, the only other person present, said, “I just don’t.”
“But you were the one who convinced Justin to trust him? Do you no longer trust him?” Arx asked.
EB folded his little arms and pouted. “I trust he isn’t our enemy. I’ll grant that. But, he’s too pretty. I mean, those chiseled good looks, all those muscles, and sheesh, put on some pants dude.”
“Oh, I see. You’re jealous.” Arx smiled.
“Am not! He’s just too handsome and, too, I don’t know, flirty. Did you see the way he was winking and smiling at Chase? I mean, get a room... wait, no, don’t get a room. Don’t even think about that. Why can’t we find him a room on the base in Alaska? That’s the perfect place to put him.”
Chase walked into the room and sat. “EB, are you already complaining about our guest? You can’t be jealous of every handsome man who visits the station.”
“You called him handsome! Does he have a spell on you or something?”
She let out a heavy sigh. “He does not have a spell on me or anything. He is handsome. His smile is sweet, his chest is beefy, and he has the most adorable little tail.”
EB hopped up on the table, turned around and wiggled his little puffy tail at her. “What? Look, I have a cute tail, a charming smile, and... okay, so I don’t have all the muscles, but I am a bunny rabbit. I can’t exactly beef up. But, seriously...”
“This is neither the time nor the place to talk about that sort of thing.” Justin walked in with a tablet in his hand. “Where is our guest of honor?”
“I’ll go get him. He might be lost.” Chase said.
“You should be careful around him.” EB muttered.
Chase angrily asked, “Why?”
“Oh, you know, he’s a Satyr. I mean, haven’t you read the myths and legends? Satyrs are sex crazed tricksters. They’re disgusting, lecherous, ...”
Torrik walked in with a cup in his hand. “What else am I?”
Chase said, “EB was just telling us about the ancient legends of satyrs.”
“Oh,” he sat down in a chair, “I see. Most of my kind left this world four thousand years ago with the original migration to the magical realm. A few stayed behind. So, whatever you know about my people would be from those who were here long after the rest of us. I don’t know how they acted or what they did, but they certainly don’t represent those of us who moved away.” He took a drink and wretched, “Oh, that’s horrible.”
“What is it?” Arx asked.
“Something your kitchen maid in the messy place gave me called Caff...cov...um...”
“Coffee,” Chase said.
“That’s it. Coffee. This is terrible.”
“It’s an acquired taste,” Chase said.
Justin cleared his throat and said, “Mind if we get on with this meeting?” Everyone quieted down and looked at him. “Okay, this is the situation. We have all monitoring stations and leagues on the lookout for any suspicious activity from Nova, Lady Echidna, or any of her minions. I have put special measures into place to guard from another situation like the one in Stockholm. However, everything is quiet.”
“Lady Echidna is not on the move?” Arx asked.
Justin said, “I believe her operation is currently searching for the Egg. Gar is currently securing the egg where it will be protected for now.”
Torrik said, “What is this egg?”
EB said, “Uh, it is the... um... well, Justin will yell at me if I say it...”
Justin pinched the bridge of his nose. “It is the Eye of the Hydra you were looking for.”
“Hey, you said we weren’t sup’osed to say that out loud,” EB scolded him.
Justin gave EB a withering glare and then said, “We have it hidden in a secret location that will only be known to one person for now.”
“Then have that person take me to it,” Torrik casually said.
“Not yet. I have a plan. But I need some information first.”
Torrik sat back and asked, “What do you need to know?”
“Everything. Who is this Lady Echidna... or Queen of Black Magic as you called her? What does she plan on doing?”
Torrik said, “It is a long story.”
“Any information could prove vital.” Justin took his seat and waited for answers.
Torrik laughed, “All business, I like that. The Queen of Black Magic was once, long ago, a member of a group called the ArcBlades. They were the most powerful, skilled warriors in all the known universe. ArcBlades were seemingly immortal and had unparalleled powers. They were also honorable and devoted to protecting the innocent. At that time, the magical kinds who currently live in my world were living on Earth. The Queen of Black Magic started a war between the magical and non-magical kinds. However, she then divided the magical peoples against one another with those who believed in her ways against those who did not. We called it the War of Three Sides. It almost destroyed everything. Merlin the Great ended the war, and the Queen was defeated.”
“How long ago was this?” Chase asked.
“In your years, roughly four thousand.”
Arx asked, “Are you that old?”
Torrik snorted, “No. I’m only two hundred.” He said this as if it were a simple thing.
Justin asked, “If the Queen was defeated so long ago, what happened to her?”
Torrik said, “Our kinds left this world and settled in a new world that Merlin had founded for us. The Queen followed us there in disguise, falling into the ranks of the few remaining ArcBlades. She convinced others among the ArcBlades to continue her original plan for domination over the lesser magical peoples. She was defeated and exiled back here, along with a small legion of her own followers. Five others fell with her back to this world. We don’t know much more after that, only that she cursed four of the others and turned them into terrible monsters. We believe she transformed their power into stones that she used to control the very fabric of magic. Her goal was to return to our world and conquer it. But she was thwarted. Legend says that her first general was the one who stopped her and he banished her to yet another realm and hid the stones. That was the last we had in our history books. Not until recently, when we sensed the use of the dark magic, did we have any idea that she was still even alive.”
Chase said, “Could this general be Nova?”
Torrik shrugged. “I don’t know his name. I doubt anyone from my realm knows it. Much has been lost in all these centuries.”
EB said, “It is true. Nova is an ArcBlade.”
Justin asked, “What do you know?”
“Nova once told me about himself. When he learned who I was, who my people were, he knew that we were like the people of Yohan. My race, the Vexillians, are also a magical kind, but of another world. Your world has many non-magical people, which caused the problems that led to the magical people leaving. The Vexillians lived in a world where all were magical. But, long ago, our two peoples knew each other. He told me that he was a disgraced member of a once proud group called the ArcBlades. Though he lost his honor, he would get it back by devoting himself to defending this world and keeping it safe. He told me never to even say the name ArcBlade aloud. But, now that you all know, I guess it’s alright.”
Chase asked, “Does this Queen want to get back to your world still? Is that her goal?”
“I can’t say for certain, since I never met her or know what she is thinking today. But if history is repeating itself, then she is probably trying to get back.”
“Why?” Justin asked. “If she merely wants to subjugate a world, why go after yours when she is already here?”
“Again, I don’t know what is on her mind today. But, the truth is, she gained her power through an unforgivable magic... blood sacrifice. She murdered many to gain greater power. She even sacrificed her own to craft the stones that control the monsters under her command. Magical blood is powerful. She wants to return to obtain that power again. That, at least, was her original goal.”
Justin asked, “If you take the stone back with you, will she be able to get it?”
“No. She and her general were both banished by extremely powerful magic, which is why she needs the stones to return. Also, there is a great divide between our realms filled with magical beasts to stop any who try to cross it without permission.”
“Then we have our objective. Find the remaining stones and return them to your world for safekeeping.” Justin said.
Chase asked, “How do we do that?”
The dark of night bathed Nova as he watched Lady Echidna tear at the magical barrier preventing them from accessing the portal. The darkness of her shadowy magic only drank up what little light was left in this icy wasteland. Then, the fabric of magic broke wide open and the barrier split apart as though it were a thin layer of glass. The shards shattered and then evaporated in the wind.
Lady Echidna stopped, a glint of greed on her perfect face at the sight before her. “Come, we have work to do.”
Together, they walked through the portal and left the blisteringly inhospitable world of Antarctica. They stood in a strange land of broken mountains and dirty ground. Echoes rang out in the distance of roars and grumbles from beasts much larger than either of them.
“The Great Divide.” Nova whispered as he took in the sights with a hint of fear on his face.
Lady Echidna was basking in the surrounding glory. “Such a fabulous purgatory they created, and just for us.” She walked onward.
Nova followed her. “They created this to prevent anyone from entering their world without permission.”
“Don’t be so foolish, my pet. They crafted this in response to us. We inspired fear so terrible that they went to lengths such as these to stop us.”
Nova almost responded to her when both heard a terrible screech and then a great shadow fell over them for a moment. A dragon-like beast swooped over and flew away. Nova whispered, “Wyverns.”
She chortled as she observed the creature flying away. “They filled this divide with the most powerful creatures they could find. I’m sure we would encounter many awful things. I would love to harvest their blood and craft my own creations to wreak havoc.” She held up her hand.
“My lady, don’t...”
Her shadowy magic came out of her hand for a moment, then a red energy hit her and she stumbled back to be caught by Nova before falling to the ground. Holding her hands up against herself, she swore under her breath, “Curse that fool Merlin.”
“Apparently, that banishment spell is still active.”
“Obviously,” she retorted as she shoved her way off of him and back to her feet. “Soon, that spell will begin to eat at both of us. The closer we get to Yohan, the stronger it will be.”
Nova said, “We wouldn’t get the opportunity, look.”
Creatures of all descriptions rushed toward them from a distance. Wyverns, led by the one who passed over them moments ago, were the front line of this charge.
“I see the welcoming committee is on its way.”
“We can’t stay. Without our magic, they will devour us in moments.” Nova pulled her back toward the portal.
She laughed, “No, my sweet. They wouldn’t harm their queen.” Holding up the Eye of Fenrir in her hand, she blew across it. A mist of dark red became a billowing fog. She then spoke into it, her voice booming across the entire land. “Minions of great might, turn now to my evil delight. Stand strong and storm the Earth, give us time to seek rebirth.”
The ruckus of beasts slowed down and then stopped. The fog hid them for the moment, but it was already dissipating.
“How did you do that? Our magic is bound here by Merlin’s curse.” Nova asked.
She put the Eye of Fenrir away. “It wasn’t our magic I used. However, we must return. I feel the sting of that curse growing. I also would rather not be around when this portal breaks wide open.”
_____
Torrik and Justin both stood before a large map on the screen in the briefing room. Arx, Chase, and EB were also present.
Justin pointed at Sweden. “The first stone was there, near Stockholm. Apparently, Nova hid it a long time ago in a statue. Somehow he retrieved the second before that and hid it by stabbing into the body of one of our own.”
“He did what?” Torrik asked.
EB hopped up and said, “Nova and Midgard, who is a big serpent dude who is really powerful, and a big mouth, and is kinda rude, and has been both a bad guy and good guy... long story. Um... what was I saying? Oh, right. Nova fought Midgard over the Eye of Fenrir stone. But during the fight, Nova was able to plant the Eye of the Hydra in Midgard’s body, disguising it as a wound. It was like totally brilliant.”
“I’ll say.” Torrik commented.
Justin said, “We aren’t sure where the Eye of the Hydra was originally hidden...”
Torrik said, “Oh, it was over here, near these islands.” He pointed at New Zealand and Australia."
“How do you know that?” Arx asked.
Torrik said, “When I arrived, I sensed the magic from it and followed the trail to a tomb under the water. It was empty. Someone had already gotten to the stone inside. So, I left a minor spell that would trigger when someone else tried getting to it. I assumed that the Queen of Black Magic would be looking for it, so she would meet a nasty surprise.”
“YOU STARTED THAT FLOODING CATASTROPHE!” Arx was to his feet.
“I suppose so. It would cause the waters to thrash around. What? Did it cause some problems?” Torrik looked genuinely confused as to their anger.
EB hopped up onto the table. “That flooded like five cities and threatened an entire nation. That was really, really stupid!”
“Sorry.”
Justin said, “The floods were a problem, but one that has been dealt with. Now that you’re working for us, we can handle things better.”
EB said, “No. It isn’t dealt with. There are loads of people still mopping out their basements because of this furball.”
Justin glared at EB, “Enough! When I say we move on, we move on. Otherwise, you can go back to your quarters. Is that understood?”
Torrik interjected, “Hey, cool off. He’s right, I probably shouldn’t have used such a potent spell...”
Justin turned his anger on Torrik. “I’m in charge, and I will reprimand my subordinates without your help. Is that clear?”
“Sure, whatever.” Torrik held his hands up in surrender.
“Good. Our next objective is finding the other stones. Do you have any idea where they are?”
Torrik shook his head, “No. I only sensed the one. And, it wasn’t really the stone itself I was sensing, but the search for it. She must have been looking to activate it next and thus was using her own power to seek it. That is what I tapped into.”
Chase asked, “Where do we start looking?”
Torrik thought about that for a moment. “If I could study your ancient mythologies, I might find evidence there.”
“There are so many from all the various cultures of Earth,” Chase said.
Torrik grinned with that handsome smile of his and waved his hand in the air. A thick scroll appeared. He grabbed it and then set it down. Unrolling it, he revealed a blank parchment. “Show me the history of sea beasts called Hydra.” The page gained images that looked like multi-headed beasts, several varieties. “See, we have information about some of the ancient monsters the Queen summoned in the past. She seems to be using a lot of her old tactics. I can cross reference what we know with what you have.”
Justin gave the scroll a critical look, and then with a curt nod, he agreed. “I’ll have all our information brought to you at once.”
“I’ll help.” Both Chase and EB volunteered at the same time.
Torrik rolled up the scroll and smiled at Chase, “I would love your help.” He held out his hand.
She took it and stood. “I know. Let’s go to the arboretum to study. Plenty of room to spread the books out on the grass.”
“Sounds lovely. I do enjoy being in nature. This metal environment is odd and unsettling.”
“Perfect.” She walked him out of the room.
Justin huffed and then sarcastically said, “Meeting adjourned.”
EB came close to Justin and was seething in a jealous rage. “See, I toldja he was nothing but a nasty flirt. I’d keep him away from her if I were you.”
“You aren’t me, so don’t tell me what to do. Go, find books and other materials on myths for them. Arx, return to the TALOS room and keep an eye on things. It is altogether too quiet on Earth right now.”
“On it. Oh, and maybe EB is right, that Torrik is flirting hard with Chase and...”
“I already have one jealous idiot. I don’t need two. Just do your job!” Justin barked at him.
Torrik chomped down on an apple while sitting on the grass in the arboretum. Chase was next to him, looking through several books on mythologies.
“This is truly amazing. I haven’t had an apple like this ever.” He was engrossed with the rosy fruit.
Chase laughed, “It’s just a red delicious apple. They’re extremely common.”
“Not where I’m from. We have loads of fruits, but nothing like these.”
“What is your favorite fruit?”
“Honey Bark,” He said without hesitation.
“Bark?”
“Yeah, it’s this special type of tree that the bark grows a thick layer of sticky sap on the inside that gets really thick around fall when we harvest it. It is almost exactly like honey, perhaps a little thicker and less sweet, but it is exceptional.”
“Sounds wonderful. I’d love to try some.”
“I wish I could take you back to my world and show you some. But that would be forbidden.”
Chase asked, “Why can’t you just grow some here? You were growing a lot of vines and other plants.”
“That’s because I’m a nature mage. All Satyrs are nature mages. But, our magical plants are just like the trees grown by Wood Elves, not real. They cannot bear fruit or seed. And they will evaporate eventually. So, even the wood itself is useless. Temporarily, it is very useful, but in the long run, it’s worthless.”
“Too bad, that honey bark sounded delicious.”
He took another bite of the apple. “This is just as good, maybe a little more tart, but...here, you gotta try some.” He pulled out a knife and sliced some off for her. He reached over and put it between her teeth.
Not far from Chase and Torrik, a seething little bunny hid behind a tree, which he was gnawing on as he growled. His green eyes were witness to the flirty scene between Chase and Torrik.
“Dude, you’re tearing all the bark off the bottom of that tree,” Arx said.
EB let go and spit out chunks of bark. “That naked furry piece of goat-cheese is making moves on Chase!”
Arx huffed, “So? It’s not like she’s your girl.”
“She is my girl, well maybe not my girl like a total girlfriend situation. I’m working on that. But, they hardly know each other and he’s feeding her apples, and she’s giggling at him. It’s disgusting!”
“She’s just try to make him feel welcome.”
EB snorted, “Welcome, my lucky foot! That jerk is all over her. Right now, they should be working! Not sitting there, giggling and eating apples!”
“I agree.” Justin surprised both of them.
Justin walked toward the Chase and Torrik. Arx and EB sheepishly followed behind him, both caught spying.
Chase greeted Justin with a casual, “Hello.”
Torrik held up the apple core and was about to announce the glory of this fruit when Justin started in. “I sent you here to work. I questioned the idea of coming into this place to get anything done, but I thought better of it. Looks like I should have gone with my gut.”
“Hold on there, Master Justin, we have something.” Torrik said.
“Director Justin, not Master. And just what do you have? Plans for a picnic.”
Torrik stood up, tossed the apple core aside, and came dangerously close to Justin. “I’m here to help you. I have been a military leader for over a hundred years, which I have learned is a long time for your kind. Now, either you stop with the attitude or I can take my findings and go this alone. Got it?”
Justin glared at Torrik, not backing down. “What did you discover?”
Torrik said, “Looking at the information we dug through, there are several possibilities of creatures that she once tried to summon in our world that she could have replicated here. There is this...” Chase handed him a book. “This creature your people call Scylla is described very similarly to a monster she once summoned.”
Justin looked at the open book. “Great, a myth from a legend that has no basis in real geography. Do you have any idea where that monster’s location would be?”
“No. I hoped that you, being from this planet, might have a better grasp of the map.” Torriks’ tone was purposefully rude, almost to a challenging point.
Chase hopped up. “Considering the location of the legends, we can narrow it down considerably.”
Justin spent a moment looking at the artist's rendition of the legendary monster. “Are you sure about this?”
“No. But it’s the best we have.”
“Fine. I’ll have the computer start working on sorting through historical data and see if we can find anything to give us a lead on a location.” He turned and left, not giving them any sort of parting statement.
Torrik waited a moment and then asked, “Why is he so brusque? I know I arrived ready to fight, but we understand each other now.”
“It’s not you.” Chase said.
EB agreed. “Justin has been real rude and strict for a while now. Don’t know why. I tried giving him some really good chocolate and all, but he refused it. I mean, he refused MY best chocolate. You haven’t had anything like that. It’s just the best, and... what was I saying?”
Arx said, “Director Justin was acting this way before you arrived. I’m considering moving the TALOS initiative to the United Nations, or at least a BADGE location off this station.”
“You’d leave?” EB asked.
Chase said, “He’s not the only one. Have you seen Strange Quark around recently? Even Krystal and Chaz have stopped coming for news info. They just pick up the standard media wire from the computer. Justin has been rubbing everyone wrong for weeks. I’ve even thought about going home to my father for a while and working for BADGE on Earth.”
EB yelled, “Don’t leave!” then realized he shouldn’t have yelled that and said, “sorry.”
Torrik asked, “What is BADGE exactly? Is it just a global defense guild? A military force working for your kingdom? I don’t know much about your world and even less about BADGE. I just knew it was the security force keeping the Eye of the Hydra.”
EB said, “It’s a military organization, a reeeealy strict one. You know, you gotta wear pants... unless you’re a little cute bunny... and no fraternizing, and...”
“EB, shut up,” Chase said with a dismissive tone. She smiled at Torrik and took his arm, “Come with me, I’ll show you around and tell you about BADGE. It is an interesting place. I doubt you have anything like it where you come from.”
Arx and EB watched them leave, both a little green eyed at the sight of the pair. EB far more jealous than Arx.
“I’m going with them.” EB stated.
Arx said, “No, why don’t you go help them research locations for this next monster? I gotta go check on TALOS and make sure things are quiet.”
“But, I wanna...”
“Spy on them. Sure, I want to know what they are doing and I don’t want her and him being a couple, either. But she is not interested in me, and by now you should know she doesn’t like your advances.”
“Nothing of the sort. She likes me flirting. I mean, that’s why she is after that hunky goat. She likes furry, cute, magical people. Well, I’m all that and a bag of carrots. She’ll come around. But, I suppose nosing in on them isn’t the best thing. I’ll go help Justin... no, wait, he’ll just yell at me again. I’ll go and...ugh...read more myth books.”
“So, that’s what the word BADGE stands for. Interesting.” Torrik sat at a table in the mess area with Chase across from him.
“Yeah, it’s kinda a secret, but it is pretty obvious at the same time.”
Torrik sipped some hot chocolate and then said, “So, the humans of this world gained strange magics... “
“We call them super powers.”
“Oh, okay. Super powers. I guess that makes sense. It really isn’t magic. But, Legion sent those Morphons to your world, and that caused some of your people to have these powers. And thus BADGE formed to help organize and oversee these heroes.”
“Yeah. Nova has been protecting this world for a long time, much longer than BADGE has been around. And that’s the core purpose of BADGE, defending this world. But, we do it through cooperation between the heroes and BADGE. Unfortunately, there has also been a rise in people who gained powers who use them for evil, and BADGE has to deal with them as well.”
Torrik said, “One thing is for certain, when people have power, there are always those who use it for selfish reasons. Magic, superpowers, political powers... any kind.”
“Sadly true.”
Torrik took a big drink and then leaned back. “This really soothes the soul. I...” he looked up, his eyes widened, and he stood so fast the chair fell over. “Demon!”
“What?” Chase turned around just as Torrik cast a spell.
Gar walked up when vines sprung up and ensnared him. In a matter of seconds, he found himself tethered to the ground. Gar struggled for a moment before falling over. “Help!”
“Stop, no! Gar is not a demon!” She ran over and was pulling on the vines.
Torrik cocked his head. “He has demon wings, is made of stone like a wicked construct. And I sense powerful magic in him.”
“Gar is a good friend, and he wasn’t made of evil magic. His soul is from a Vexillian. Let him go!”
“Slita!” Torrik cast his counter spell, and the vines vanished into mists. “Sorry.”
Chase helped Gar to his feet. “You okay?”
“I think so. What’s that?” Gar pointed at Torrik.
“Oh, right, you’ve been away.” Chase smiled and held out a hand. “This is Torrik Treeleaf. He is from another realm and is here to help us.”
Gar smiled, seemingly unfazed by being attacked. “Nice to meet you.”
A white blur zipped up and hugged Gar’s leg. “Buddy! Glad you're back.”
“Hi, EB. Why are you acting strange? You never hug me when I come back from a mission.”
EB let go and frowned. “Things are bad up here. Justin is being a butt, and this guy is... well, I’ll fill you in later.”
Chase rolled her eyes at the bunny, but asked Gar, “When did you get back?”
“Just now. I heard you talking, so I came over to see you.”
“What are you doing here?” Justin walked up with a computer tablet in his hand.
Gar said, “Oh, hello. I just got back, I...”
“Obviously. I cleared your shuttle for docking. You should have come directly to me for a mission report.”
“Sorry.”
“Don’t be sorry. Follow the rules. You may have rock for a brain, but even you know procedures. Torrik ...” He had just turned to the Satyr when Chase interrupted him.
“Apologize!”
“What was that?”
Chase came closer and looked Justin directly in the eyes. “Apologize to Gar.”
“I have nothing to apologize for. If people would do their jobs according to the rules, then I wouldn’t have to reprimand anyone. Now, I have to talk to Torrik.”
“I’ve had enough!” Chase startled everyone with that outburst. “None of us can be good enough for you any longer.”
“If you would do your job and not just play around like this is some kind of game.”
EB said, “Well, actually...”
“Not now!” Chase stopped EB and then came dangerously close to Justin. “Playing around. Is that what you think we’ve been doing? I’ve put my life on the line for BADGE and this planet more times than I care to count. If you don’t appreciate what we do for you and BADGE, then you don’t deserve our support.” She whipped around and left.
EB hopped up on the table and said, “Yeah, you’re being a total jerk.” With that, he left.
Justin looked up at Gar. “Well, you have any pithy words for me?”
Gar spent a moment with reluctance written all over his face. Finally he said, “Nova was like a father to me. He yelled at me, but always with good reason. I do my best, but it isn’t good enough for you.” He, too, left in the direction of Chase.
“Dammit!” Justin blurted in a fit of rage and went for his comm. His hand hovered over it for a second, and he merely snarled at it. “Damn, Arx is in a meeting with FEMA.” He looked at Torrik. “I’ll get back to you when I have a proper team of agents.” He marched off toward the Operations center.
Torrik casually sipped the rest of his hot chocolate and stood up. He brushed himself off and headed for the lift.
Torrik walked out of the lift and found Operations cold and quiet, save light clicking noises from the robots operating the computer consoles. Justin stood in the center of the room, watching a large map of the world before him.
“I’m not ready for you.” Justin stated.
Torrik walked down the steps toward the lonely director. “I’m not here about my mission. I have something important to discuss.”
“What would that be?”
“You.”
“Not now,” Justin stated.
Torrik snapped his fingers and all the computer screens went blank. “Right now.”
Justin huffed, “What’s this about?”
“A lot of things. I don’t know you well. In fact, I hardly know you at all. But since I arrived, you’ve been short-tempered and downright rude to those you lead.”
Justin turned away, looking back at the still blank screens. “We have work to do. Besides, you don’t have the right.”
“No, I don’t, but I do have the privilege.”
With a sarcastic tone, Justin said, “What?”
“I’m working with BADGE, but I’m not a member of this organization. I’ll follow your orders at my discretion. However, I remain an outsider.”
“We don’t have time for this.”
“We don’t have time for you to act like a tyrant. Your attitude is not only getting in the way of a properly running organization but also in stopping our enemy.”
Justin turned on him. “Look, Torrik, you have no idea what I’m up against. You have no clue what I was handed when I was thrust into the command of BADGE.”
“You think I’m just a silly magical man who grows flowers? I’m the leader of the most prestigious magical military in all of Yohan. I know about pressure and risk, I know about the struggles of command. Don’t you dare think you’re the only person who has felt those pressures.”
“I know how to handle pressure. I just have to be strong.”
Torrik said, “Being strong has nothing to do with being an ass.”
“What did you call me!”
“Stubborn mule. Funny thing, I found out that both worlds have a lot of the same animals. Mules are among them.”
“I don’t need this. We have work to do. Either we do it, or you leave.”
Torrik smiled. “I’ll decide what work we do right now. Right now, you have people out there who trust you, care about you, and are worried. You aren’t being yourself. Even I can see that something is festering under your skin, driving you to be ill-tempered.”
Justin looked Torrik dead in the eyes and said, “You don’t understand, and they have no clue. This job isn’t normal. It’s the hardest damn job in this world. I’m not Director Nova. He isn’t human, he is...now we know... something ancient and powerful. I’m just Justin, the human. And, right now, I’m in charge of the one organization that stands even the slightest chance of stopping an evil villain from destroying our world, and yours. Everyone is expecting me to find Nova and bring him back, while saving the world, and also manage a crisis team dealing with natural disasters. Do you know what kind of pressure that is? Do you realize what I have to deal with every damn day? Leagues fighting with each other over petty arguments. Bank robbers, military coups, alien invasions, floods, earthquakes, meteors, and a maniacal woman with god-like powers hell-bent on ripping apart this world. All of that is on my shoulders. ALL OF IT! I’M NOT DIRECTOR NOVA! I CAN’T DO THIS!” Tears were in his eyes as he screamed these words, not at Torrik, but at the fates themselves.
Torrik reached out and put a hand on Justin’s shoulder. “No one is asking you to be Nova. They’re doing their jobs at the best of their abilities, and that is all you can ask of them. They don’t expect you to solve all the problems, just be there to guide them. You may not be Nova, but you are Justin. You have strengths, use them. A lot of those strengths aren’t in you, but in those around you who want to help you succeed.”
Justin looked up at the darkened screen, his reflection staring back at him. “I really did make an ass of myself, didn’t I?”
“Yup.”
“How do I convince them to come back and help?”
Torrik laughed, “True loyalty is often tested. You’ll find they aren’t as done with you as even they want to think. A leader guides not only by orders and planning, but sets the tone of emotions and focus. Now comes your biggest test as the substitute Director of BADGE, humility.”
A woman in a thick outfit stepped out a set of doors on the side of New Meta City. Beside her was a smaller person, so bundled up it was hard to tell they were even human.
“Come on, Cynthia, we don’t want to take long.” The woman grabbed the small child’s hand.
“It’s cold!” The girl whined.
“I know. But this is my job and you will do this one day.” She pulled her around the side of the dome and stopped at a box. “These are environmental units. They monitor the conditions both inside and outside, so we are certain everything under the dome stays warm and nice. But, they can break down, so we just do a weekly check on them. See this... are you listening?”
The little girl made a whimpering sound and then screamed as she pointed away.
Turning quickly, the mother saw a blue scaled wyvern bearing down on them. It unleashed a torrent of blue flames, but missed as it was flying past.
“Run!” The woman grabbed the child’s hand and dragged her toward the entrance.
Both staggered and lurched to the side with the moving ice beneath their feet as the wyvern hit the ground in a heavy slam. It leaned its head back, preparing another blue fire blast.
The woman turned and ripped off her googles. She unleashed a steady beam of yellow energy that hit the wyvern in the face and sent it tumbling backward across the frozen wasteland. The beam continued for a long time and then came to a stop. Instantly, the woman fell over, completely passed out.
“MOMMA! MOMMA!” Cynthia pushed on her mother’s body.
A sensor on the woman’s wrist beeped and a robotic voice announced, “Unauthorized use of meta powers detected. Unauthorized use of meta powers detected...” this continued as the little girl cried over her mother.
Arx walked into the Arboretum to find Chase, EB, and Gar chatting while they sat in the grass.
“Guys? What’s up?” He joined them in the grass.
EB hopped over and gleefully said, “We told Justin off. That jerk was totally out of control and Chase got mad, boy is she hot when she gets mad. I mean, if I knew she wouldn’t do something absolutely terrible to me, I’d get her mad now and then just to see that sexiness.” A throwing star hit the dirt right next to EB.
Chase, who had thrown the blade, said, “You want to see my ugly side again?”
EB gulped and smiled at her. “No. I like you calm and sweet as well.”
Arx asked Chase, “You told him off! Why?”
“He’s out of control. He’s getting worse and worse at barking orders and telling us we aren’t doing enough. I... well, I lost my temper when he started berating Gar, and then he turned on me and said we are just playing around. I probably shouldn’t have let it get under my skin so much.”
Gar said, “Justin needed to be told. I don’t mind being yelled at. I make mistakes a lot. But, I learn and do my best. Nova understood, but Justin is just angry all the time.”
Arx asked, “Are you guys really quitting BADGE over this?”
EB said, “Maybe. Hey, we should start our own organization. I know we can call ourselves the Avengers... wait, that’s taken. Um... what about Chase’s Intergalactic Agency, the CIA... wait, that’s taken too. Nuts. Oh, wait, we could all use one of my factories. Or better yet, we could work out of the North Pole. Your dad would let us use his factory as a staging...”
“We aren’t quitting!” Chase interrupted EB.
Justin and Torrik walked up at that moment with Justin saying, “I’m glad to hear that.”
Chase said, “We may not be quitting BADGE, but I’m not ready to hear you berate us about this. Go away.”
“I’m not here to yell or berate. I’m here to apologize.”
This took them all by surprise. EB said, “Wow! We should’a quit sooner.”
“Shut up, EB.” Chase said.
Justin walked over and sat with them in the grass. “I knew it would be hard filling Nova’s shoes. In fact, I knew it would be impossible. Somehow, he always succeeded. He always seemed to have an answer. If he didn’t have it right away, he would find it. I cannot seem to find any answer. Everything was okay at first. We were on a global hunt for him, and I was sure if we found him, we could undo whatever Lady Echidna did to him. When we did find him, it all went to hell. He nearly killed Midgard and set off that Fenrir beast. He was right there. My chance at handing this job back to him slipped away, and I suddenly felt the pressure.”
Gar said, “But he helped us. Gave us clues about the Eye of Fenrir and then gave us that other stone that I hid.”
“That only made it worse. Nova, what part of him that remains on our side, expects me to solve this. He is putting faith in me, and I just don’t know if I have what it takes. So, after the Fenrir incident, I truly understood the responsibilities expected of me.”
Chase asked, “And because of this, you became a jerk?”
“It wasn’t intentional. I just felt I needed to be Nova, be in charge. He was so solid, so stern. I had to be like that. But, instead of being a great leader, I was an idiot. The harder I pushed you, the more I lost control over things. So, I only pushed harder, hoping it would fall into place. All I did was push you away. Truth is, I do know what all of you have done for BADGE. It exists because of the sacrifices and work you’ve put into it. Nova was an outstanding leader, but it was you who made that possible. I need you, BADGE needs you. I can’t replace any of you.”
EB hopped over and smiled at Justin. “You’re also part of the team. When Nova was leading us, you were right there.”
Justin smiled at him, “And our friend Torrik reminded me of that fact. I can’t be Nova, but I am Agent Justin. I need to focus on my strengths as a leader and do my best. You’ll do your best in spite of my inexperience.”
Chase looked around the group and then said, “Apology accepted. What are your orders, sir?”
A beeping came out of Justin’s command comm. A robotic voice announced, “Distress Signal received from New Meta City.”
Justin slapped his comm. “Report?”
“New Meta City sensors indicate direct assault on the exterior. Reported injury count, one. Unknown enemy.”
Justin turned around and looked at his team. “Time to get back to work.”
Justin led the team into the Operations center where the main viewscreen was covered in small video feeds already.
“Oh my God, what are those?” Chase paused at the sight of the monsters attacking the city.
Justin frowned. “Are those... dragons?”
Torrik walked down to the front of the room. “No, those are Wyverns. And those other creatures are wild goblins, and...” He seemed lost for a moment as the images played out. “This isn’t possible. This is simply not possible!”
“Do you know what this is?” Justin asked.
Torrik nodded, “There is a space between our worlds. We call it The Great Divide.”
EB said, “You told us about that. It keeps the bad people from getting across.”
“Yes. It is a barrier to protect each side from the other. To cross it is dangerous. There are many guardians who protect it. Those creatures attacking that strange dome in the ice are from the divide. But the problem is, they’re not supposed to leave and they know it. It is a wild and dangerous place, but it actually does have some accepted order.”
Gar said, “Obviously, something has gone wrong.”
A robot announced, “Incoming transmission: New Meta City.”
“Put it through.”
A window on the screen opened that was bigger than the rest. The tired face of a disheveled woman appeared. She had white hair and eyes with no pupils. “Oh, thank goodness. Our communication system has been damaged. We jury-rigged this to get through.”
“Mayor Messenger, what is the situation?”
“We aren’t sure. One of our citizens went out to do a routine check of the system and a dragon attacked her. She barely survived the attack by unleashing her super power, which nearly killed her to use. Fortunately, her power detection system alerted us and we got her to the hospital just before the full assault started. We have been under direct attack for hours.”
There was a loud explosion behind the mayor and she looked to the side as the video feed fuzzed. “Oh, god! The west defense plates are buckling.” The image fuzzed more as she desperately called out, “We need help, send... “ the line was cut.
“Torrik,” Justin turned and gave the Satyr a severe look, “Is this an invasion?”
Torrik shook his head, “No. Not on our end. I don’t know what is happening, but those creatures should not be attacking outside The Great Divide.”
EB said, “I may think he’s a flirt and needs to put on pants, but I trust him.”
Chase asked, “What would Nova do?”
Justin looked at the screen for a moment and then said, “No, what will Justin do is all that matters right now. Chase, EB, take Torrik with you and get there ASAP. Bring with you medical supplies and a portal shield emitter. New Meta City is under our protection and we will not let it fall. I will summon the heroes. This may not be a planned invasion, but it is an invasion and we will stop it.”
Gar asked, “What about Lady Echidna?”
Torrik said, “I know she is behind this. This is just like her, to set off something terrible to distract everyone. Do not devote everything to her distraction. Protect yourselves from whatever she has planned.”
Justin nodded. “I will. But lives are at stake, and that is paramount. Please, hurry, there is little time to waste discussing this.”
Chase led EB and Torrik out of Operations in a hurry, but Justin stopped Gar before he followed.
“No, you stay.”
“Why?”
Justin watched and waited until the others left. “I have a special mission for you.” He walked with Gar up to the door that led into Director’s office.
A blistering wind raced around both Lady Echidna and Nova as they stood outside their landed shuttle. A smile of satisfaction sat on their faces as they watched the many mythical beasts raining terror down on the dome of New Meta City. Some beasts fought with each other while a few raced off into the distance.
Nova said, “It seems we have started something quite amusing.”
“I started it. You’re merely an observer of my brilliance.” Lady Echidna quipped.
“I stand corrected.”
“Ah, but you are correct in calling this amusing. Those beasts have sat far too long, waiting for something to come along and tease their delight. Just a small taste of my darkness, and they are feral beyond control.”
“BADGE will not know how to handle them quickly. This will be quite the job for them.” Nova said.
Lady Echidna asked, “What of the magical members of BADGE? That Easter Bunny is annoyingly strong, and there is the Fae woman, not to mention Santa.”
“They are wise, powerful, and well accustomed to adapting to any situation. I have no doubt they will make containing this problem easier. But this isn’t the same magic they are used to. Besides, the point, I believe, was a mere distraction.”
“True.” Lady Echidna said, “However, I want it to last long enough for us to obtain the Eye of Hydra from wherever they are hiding it. And, possibly, seek the third stone after that.”
Nova said, “Then we shouldn’t linger here. BADGE is efficient.” Nova turned and pressed the button to open the door.
Both stepped into the shuttle. Inside was the small contingent of her brainwashed mercs huddled near an electric warmer. They looked upon her return with the same eyes of a yearning puppy first seeing its master.
“What are your orders, my lady?” The leader of the mercs asked.
She smiled and gestured toward Nova. “He will guide us to the location BADGE has hidden the eye.”
Nova sat down in the co-pilot’s seat and activated the computer. “Take us up, out of this weather. Head for these coordinates.”
The pilot worked his controls, and the shuttle lifted off from the ground, fought against strong winds, and zoomed away from this frigid climate.
Lady Echidna stood behind Nova’s seat. “Where are you taking us? A BADGE vault?”
“No. I doubt they will be so foolish as to hide it in one of the vaults, which I am well aware of. I trained them better than that. We’re heading for Security Post Seven.”
“What is that?” She asked.
He pointed to a blinking dot on a map of the Atlantic Ocean. “It is a defunct oil rig that BADGE repurposed as a security observation post, which was only used when the League Wars Arena was still on Earth. This was to protect the arena from attacks by villains. Now that the Arena has been rebuilt as an orbital station, this post has gone back to being defunct. However, it has access points for BADGE communications.”
“Brilliant as always, my loyal general.” She kissed the side of his face while he worked the computer.
Two hours passed as the shuttle sped quickly over the ocean’s surface.
“Approaching coordinates.” The pilot announced.
The shuttle drew closer to the ocean’s surface and sped along toward a towering structure in the water.
“Damn, I’m detecting a small security force present.” Nova pointed at a blinking read-out on his screen.
“That is no problem. My team of mercenaries is more than a match for that small band of people.”
“We can’t start a fight. That would instantly set of automated distress signals from each BADGE agent on that station. Their body armor is designed to send out a signal the moment they’re attacked.”
She laughed, “Then, I suppose, I should adopt them into my ranks.”
“Good idea. Pilot, take us down cloaked and land on that helipad. Lady Echidna will take it from there.”
The shuttle hovered over the platform and slowly lowered down. Lady Echidna pressed the button to open the door. The four BADGE agents rushed toward the shuttle with weapons drawn. One was reaching to hit his alert signal on his comm when she cast a black fog over them.
“Get this party started, and start it right. I am here to be worshiped all day and night!” She sang these words, and the agents lost their stern faces and descended into a loopy state of mind. They were now in a dance club, swaying and enjoying the music that only they could hear under her spell. She stepped out and walked among them, touching their faces as she went, “Bow before me, that is this scene, obey me as you one true queen!”
The agents knelt down, bowed their heads, and said, “Whatever you desire, my lady.”
She reached down and lifted a woman’s face to look at her. “Tell me, are there others here who haven’t joined our little party?”
“No, my lady, we are the only detachment for this post.”
“Good. Join the others, and remove those abhorrent patches.”
The four stood and ran for the shuttle, ripping their BADGE patches off their uniforms as they went.
She looked back at Nova, who now stood at the door of the shuttle. “Find me the Eye of the Hydra.”
Torrik ran his hand under the seatbelt across his bare chest. It seemed to amuse him. EB hopped around the cabin of the shuttle as it zoomed down toward Antarctica. A team of medical robots and Dr. Henderson sat in the back with boxes of first aid supplies.
“Remind me again why we’re strapped down?” Torrik asked.
Dr. Henderson said. “Standard safety procedure. If we crash, then you’ll have less chance of being hurt.”
“Then why is that one bouncing around?” Torrik pointed at EB.
EB scoffed. “I’m perfectly safe. Besides, unlike you, I can teleport myself with magic. Not too far, and not as well as Quark or others. But, I can.”
Chase finished talking to the Mayor of New Meta City on a tablet and looked up. “Good news. They have several people who can help defend with super powers. So, the city is stable for the moment.”
Torrik asked, “Is this another place where your leagues of magic hero’s work?”
“Not magic, superpowers.” EB corrected him.
Chase said, “No. New Meta City is a place where people who developed powers can go if they don’t want to use them, or can’t use them. Some use simple powers for daily activities, but aren’t really strong enough to fight with them.”
“So, is it a prison for them?” Torrik asked.
“Not at all.” Dr. Henderson stated. “New Meta City is a choice. People can leave if they choose. However, it is designed to adapt to those with morphonic powers. It is safer there for them and can help.”
EB added, “Also, there are bad people who like to get their hands on morphonic people and use them for experiments or to try and turn them all evil and stuff. Lotsa jerks out there who see people as tools and want to harvest these types of people. That’s why New Meta City isn’t exactly on the maps. Few know of it, so keep it secret.”
“Okay, I got it. I do have one other question. You said there are people using their powers to defend it. That woman the mayor mentioned used a power to blast a wyvern away. That is no small task. Surely, she could put her powers to use for the common good?”
Dr. Henderson said, “Some people have incredibly powerful abilities. However, using them is a danger to themselves. I know of this woman. I helped study her powers when she first came to BADGE. Debora has an extremely strong eyebeam power. But, it nearly kills her to use it. I’ll be checking on her right away when we get there.”
“Approaching New Meta City!” The pilot announced.
“Good, get ready...” Chase had to grab the arms of her seat as the shuttle was suddenly veering to the side.
“Incoming fire!” The pilot announced.
They watched as a wyvern swooped past them after unleashing a volley of fire.
“It’s chasing us! I can’t seem to lose it!” The pilot darted their shuttle all over the skies as they continued to take fire from the beast.
“Does this airship not have weapons?” Torrik yelled.
EB, who slammed into the bulkhead over and over, grabbed Torrik’s leg to stop his next crashing. “Nope!”
Dr. Henderson held the medical supplies from flying all over the place. “This is a medical shuttle.”
Chase said, “We do have some weapons!” She was looking directly at EB.
The bunny, still clinging to the goat leg of Torrik, snarled. “Damn.”
Justin stood in silence as he watched the ongoing battle of creatures against the dome of New Meta City. Hero leagues were organizing and moving toward Antarctica, but none had made it there yet.
“Has Gar reached the surface yet?” He asked.
A robot announced, “Affirmative. Strange Quark has transported Gargoyle to the planet’s surface.”
“Good.”
A different robot announced, “Agents compromised. Security Force seven seven nine has been compromised at Security Post Seven.”
“Do we have any confirmation on if they have been killed?” Justin asked.
“Negative. Signs indicate they have been manipulated. Mental sensor devices are offline.”
Justin let out a hard scoff. Dr. Henderson and EB developed a small device that all agents now wear to alert BADGE to any mental manipulation, especially from Nova or Lady Echidna.
Another robot announced, “Computer system compromised. Unauthorized access to BADGE computer systems detected at Security Post Seven.”
Justin let off a little smile. “So, they’re trying to get into our computers. With Nova and brainwashed agents on the site, blocking them will be impossible. But I suppose we shouldn’t let them just waltz right into our mainframe. Robots activate counter hacking protocols against access via Security Post Seven.”
The robots all went to work, energetically fighting the attempts to access the BADGE main computers. It would be a tit-for-tat battle between them and the ancient, brilliant mind of Nova, and they would lose. But Justin didn’t seem too worried.
Torrik held a leather strap that was attached to the roof of the shuttle as the whole cabin rolled. The pilot masterfully navigated around the attacks of the wyvern.
“Do I have to?” EB moaned.
Chase yelled, “Do it!”
“Fine. Here,” He jumped up and held tight to Torrik’s neck. “Are you ready?”
“As I’ll ever be.”
In a flash of sparkles, both vanished from inside the cabin. Instantly they were outside, tumbling down in the sky as the shuttle zoomed away.
“HOLD ON!” Torrik yelled and straightened himself out in their freefall. A giant leaf appeared under him and he stood on it, riding it like a surfboard. It zoomed down and then swooped up, gliding through the air.
“The shuttle!” EB yelled, still clinging to Torrik’s neck.
The wyvern was dangerously close to the shuttle. Torrik leaned forward, and they sped through the cold, thin air toward their target.
EB produced an egg in his paw and said, “GET US CLOSER!”
Torrik made a great swing in the sky, speeding up even faster as he headed directly for the beast. When it blasted the shuttle with a fireball, EB launched his egg. It met the mid-section of the monster and exploded with a great flash of light. The wyvern lurched to the side, and the shuttle had a clear path away.
“Aw crap, it’s pissed.” EB said as he watched the irate wyvern get back on its wings and stare daggers at them.
Torrik laughed, “This is gonna be fun.”
“You and I have completely different ideas of what’s fun,” EB said just as Torrik flew directly for their enemy.
The wyvern unleashed a torrent of flames at them. Torrik made a corkscrew spiral around the flames, getting ever closer to the beast. The moment they got within a few feet, Torrik jumped off the leaf, causing it to evaporate. He landed on its back, running down it a short way before grabbing one of the protruding spikes to keep from falling.
EB lost his grip on Torrik and went sailing away. He quickly grabbed at the tip of the tail, getting a grip on it with all the strength he could muster. “TORRIK!”
The wyvern swooped down in an effort to dislodge its new passengers. Torrik threw one hand toward the front of the beast and a great vine shot out and wrapped around its head, coming into its mouth like a bridle. With that grip holding him in place, Torrik sent another vine back toward EB and caught the bunny before he went sailing into the cold, clear sky.
“DO IT EB!” Torrik yelled.
EB, the vine around his waist, formed a purple egg in his paws and threw it toward Torrik. “Get it to this thing’s face!”
Torrik caught the egg and waited while they went into a spiral toward the ocean. Yanking hard on his bridle vine, he got the wyvern to swoop up before crashing them into the raging Antarctic sea. Once they were back into a climb, he threw the egg directly ahead of them and let it smash into the face of the beast. A purple ooze spread across it and the wyvern writhed around for a moment in rage and then calmed down.
“It’s falling asleep! Get us down!” EB yelled.
Torrik looked ahead and then back at EB, “I... don’t know how.”
“Gah! You shaggy piece of...” A dirigible zoomed up close to them, with a rope ladder hanging down.
A voice piped over the speaker from Furious Squirrel. “Get on!”
Torrik grabbed the ladder. EB was not far behind. They left the descending wyvern just as it crashed into the surface of the ice shelf, creating a long path in the snow.
The dirigible flew toward New Meta City with several hundred heroes arriving all around them, some in vehicles and others flying, a few coming out of portals.
EB shouted, “WOOT! CAVALRY HAS ARRIVED!”
Torrik raced through the snow toward the fray. He made a forward flip and then jumped ten feet in the air to dodge a thrown javelin. When he hit the ground, a massive vine shot up at the feet of an approaching ogre. The ogre shot straight up into the air and then came down with a hard slam into the icy ground. Vines trapped it and kept it at bay.
“DON’T KILL!” Torrik yelled over the commotion.
Heroes of all stripes battled against the surging armies from The Great Divide.
Three skeletal warriors rushed toward Torrik, but were instantly scattered across the ground when a one-ton snowball crashed through them like bowling pins.
Midgard, who had thrown that particular snowball, glared at Torrik. “Why the hell not?” He then slapped the ground with a huge hand and the ensuing quake toppled a small legion of goblins.
Torrik cast a spell that sent flowers popping up in the snow and wrapping around the fallen goblins.
“Because they’re cursed with some kind of foul spell. They are not evil!”
Chase rushed by, throwing her stars at two trolls, nailing them down by their own ragged clothing. “This is getting harder by the minute, Torrik. We can’t keep holding them at bay. Their numbers are getting out of hand.”
“Killing them is not an option. I’m responsible for my people’s safety as much as you are for the people of this world. These are innocent victims. Don’t take their lives or you’ll have Yohan to deal with.”
Midgard laughed, “Bring it!” He grabbed an ogre in his giant hand and lifted him up to take a taste of the flailing beast.
Torrik sent a great blast of magic at Midgard and the monstrous serpent lost his intended lunch as the ogre fell back to the snow, unconscious. “I said, no killing!”
Midgard turned his wrath against Torrik, “You dare to challenge me, little goat man!?”
Torrik threw his hands to the side and enormous vines sprung up from the snow. He had an even more deadly glare on his face than Midgard. “Try me, snake. I’ve trained with the timeless dragons of old. You’re nothing.”
Midgard was in mid-motion to take down Torrik when a portal opened and Midgard slid right through and came falling out of another portal fifty yards away.
Strange Quark appeared and sealed his portal. “No in-fighting! Midgard, you know better. Torrik, don’t poke that particular bear.”
Midgard yelled in fury, but then turned his rage against two wyverns joining the battle.
“That one is dangerous,” Torrik commented.
Quark said, “We all know that. For now, we have a problem to solve. Krystal Fae is ready if you are.”
Torrik held up the strange technological device Chase had given him and spoke into it. “EB, Krystal, you guys ready with this?”
Krystal’s voice came through clearly. “Yes. I have the position.”
EB said, “I’m in my place. Just give the word.”
“Alright. When you see the beam of light, cast your magic toward it.”
Both said, “Got it.”
The battle raged around Torrik, Chase and Quark defended him so he could focus on his own magic. Thrusting one hand directly up, he cast a massive column of blinding light, clearing the clouds above. From either side of the field, two more beams of light shot toward him and met his. All at once, his beam became a massive wave of magical energy that spread out across the continent. Heroes were unfazed by the energy, but the creatures attacking them all staggered and fell back. The wyverns were grounded, and it stalled the warriors.
Everything remained quiet for a moment after the light faded. The creatures of fantasy seemed calm, even confused.
The first voice was from Krystal Fae. “Torrik, did it work?”
“I’ll check.” Torrik walked over to the ogre he had tethered down. The creature looked around and then spotted Torrik.
“Satyr, where is Gud?” The Ogre asked.
Torrik smiled, “Gud, you’re in a new world outside of the Great Divide.”
“Oh, Gud not supposed to leave Great Divide. Is Gud in trouble?”
“No, Gud, you’re fine.”
As Torrik surveyed the area, he saw the other fantasy creatures gathering their senses and some even talking to the heroes. Torrik clicked his comm. “It worked. The curse has been lifted. Good work, guys.”
“Toldja I could do it.” EB responded.
Krystal added, “With a little Fae help, as well.”
Torrik walked over to Quark and Chase while still speaking into the comm. “Everyone, please help guide my people back into that portal. This place is dangerously cold and it could hurt them. If any are injured, let me know.”
“Hey, you aren’t in charge.” EB commented through the comm.
Chase grabbed it and said, “Just do what he said.”
“Alright.” EB muttered.
Midgard, now much smaller and appearing more human-like, walked up and punched Torrik in the shoulder, nearly knocking him over.
“Hey!” Torrik turned, ready for a fight.
Midgard said, “I owed you that. And, next time you challenge me, better make it a fun fight. It’ll be your last.”
Justin chimed through, “Is everything okay down there? Sensors are showing a decrease in energy.”
Chase answered, “Yes. The fight is finally over.”
“Good. We still have problems. Get Torrik back up here.”
Lady Echidna, Nova, and their newly acquired minions stood in the control center of Security Post Seven. The brainwashed workers activated the computers and bypassed at the secure protocols.
Lady Echidna was amused for a moment at her reflection on a dormant computer screen. It then activated and had numbers running all over it. “What fascinating tools the humans have devised. Their technology is almost at the level of our earliest days of magic. But, still nothing compared to genuine power.”
“It is the tech of BADGE that stands in our way,” Nova said.
“Not for long. Have these people get us into their system and find my jewel.” She commanded.
Nova pointed at a person, and she rushed to the computer to access it. He then put in his command authorization codes. With a hard buzz, it rejected him.
“I should have known better. Justin would wipe all my command codes. But, he didn’t design the very base of all the BADGE computer systems... I did.” Sitting before the computer, his hands flew over the controls as he hacked his way through every system and security firewall.
Echidna said, “You certainly have a flare for this.”
“I invented more than half of all modern human technology. They just don’t realize it. Sitting around on this world for thousands of years gave me plenty of time to create. Which also means they have little they can hide from me, no matter how hard they try.”
Data flew by on the screens. Soon he was into the information about the Eye of the Hydra. Everything came to a stop with a map on the screen that had a single blinking dot.
“What is it, my dear?” Lady Echidna asked.
“I know where they have taken the Eye of the Hydra. They entrusted it to Gar, which is not a foolish idea. He cannot be brainwashed or enchanted, and he is damn near impossible to destroy. They sent it to Neo Utopia in hopes that we wouldn’t even think of looking for it there.”
Lady Echidna stood back and tapped her chin. “They cannot be dense enough to believe there would be any inch of this planet we wouldn’t search.”
Nova nodded, “True. But, this was more clever than that. It is hidden in a vault, but not a BADGE vault. This place is even more secure and secret than BADGE’s. It belongs to a notorious gangster, guarded round the clock by his own little army.”
“Oh, how clever. But not clever enough. I think we should pay a visit to Neo Utopia and see what this gangster has hidden in his vault.”
Private Eye Peyton stepped out of his 32 Ford and gave the building before him a great snarl. He hated being here. It was enemy territory. But it was his duty to work with these people and make sure BADGE’s plans go off without a hitch.
“I’d rather be having a chicken dinner at Mildreds... Oh, well.”
The place before him was an old laundry business that still operated. However, Peyton and the entire police department knew this was just a front for one of Rutkowski’s operations. Walking inside, all he heard was the steady rumbling of the dryers working on some random persons’ sheets and underwear. Several haggard old women looked over their magazines at him, not sure why a P.I. was inside this place.
He made his way to the back and found the one dryer that had a permanent sign hanging in front of it that declared, ‘out of order’. Opening it, he pressed a hidden button and then closed the door and pressed the ‘on’ switch, which caused it to lower down. He stepped on top of the dryer, now flush with the floor, and it rose back up, taking him into a hidden part of the building.
The doors opened and what had been a dirty old laundromat turned into an opulent penthouse. The place was packed with plush furniture, gilded trappings, and heavy curtains. A radio blared some good old jazz while five gangsters sat around a table playing poker.
“Take yer shoes off! Don’tcha have any class, Peyton?” Steelfist yelled from the table.
Peyton sloughed his loafers and walked across the gooey, thick carpet. “Where’s Rutkowski?”
The voice of the infamous gangster spoke from behind the bar. “Ova here.” He shook a cocktail mixer. “Ya want a glass? Make’n some special drinks.”
Peyton asked, “Why? Celebrating something?”
“It’s not every day that one of BADGE’s top henchmen comes and asks me a favor, even gives me a big fat check, and offers to help clear my slate.”
Peyton walked toward the bar and then felt a stabbing pain. To this, he hopped around as he yanked a toothpick out of his foot. “Nice, real nice.”
Rutkowski, chewing on the end of a different toothpick, chortled as he said, “Now how’d that get there?”
“Funny,” Peyton retorted as he made his way to the bar. “I’m not here to celebrate. Justin wants me to ensure that you’re holding up on your end of the bargain. That item is extremely dangerous and could be catastrophic if the wrong people...”
“I know, I know. I got the rundown from that stone feller. I may like money and would probably sell my sister... if I had one... for a quick buck. But, I know the game. If the crappola hits the fan, then money ain’t gonna do me much good. I’ll do my part. Just make sure they hold up on their end. I’m tired of community service gigs.”
Peyton sat down at the bar. “BADGE is honorable. They’ll hold up their end of the bargain. Now, where is your super secret vault?”
Everyone in the room laughed at that question. Steelfist said, “Wouldn’t you like to know?”
Rutkowski added, “So would the FBI, IRS, and the cops. Ain’t showing it to you or nobody. Justin asked me to hide it where no one will find it. Well, that’s exactly where it will be.”
“Then why did Justin send me here to find it?” Peyton asked.
Rutkowski said, “Because we have a special job to do. That jewel thing, it aint in the vault just yet.”
“What?”
“You and me, we got something to take care of. We gotta use our special time power to seal that thing and then we’ll put it in the vault.”
Peyton took a drink of the cocktail he was handed and then asked, “Shouldn’t we do that closer to the vault itself? Unless it’s in this building.”
“It aint here, but yer right, we should do it there.” Rutkowski smirked at him.
Peyton realized his drink was an extra special blend. “You bastard.” With a hard plop, his head hit the bar, and he was out cold.
Torrik walked with Justin in the arboretum on the station. They looked over several maps of Earth on tablets as they discussed the next phase of this job.
“There, that’s the place I think we should start searching.” Justin pointed at a place in the Mediterranean.
Torrik agreed. “If your myths align with enough reality, then the Scylla should be there. Or at least we’ll find evidence of its location.”
EB and Chase approached with Gar behind them. EB hopped up and down. “That was a fun battle. I mean, all those cool fantasy creatures, it was like a totally LARPing. I punched an ogre, kicked a goblin, and totally got a critical roll against that Wyvern.”
“This isn’t a game,” Chase muttered.
“Let me have my fun,” EB said.
Justin said, “I’m just glad the situation is resolved so we can return to finding the last two stones before Lady Echidna gets to them.”
Chase asked, “Will you stick around and help?” She looked at Torrik.
EB said, “Oh, he should be going home now, faaaar away in that Yohan place. Like, forever.”
Torrik said, “Actually, I’m going to be hanging around for a while.”
“What!” EB bellowed and then saw everyone glaring at him. “Sorry.”
Chase asked, “What do you mean?”
“First, my mission was to find the source of this evil magic and stop it. We haven’t come close to that yet. I’m here for the duration. Also, I could be staying even longer if BADGE is up for the challenge.”
Everyone could hear EB muttering, “Please say it ain’t so.”
Justin said, “I think the idea has merit. Training is always good for our heroes.”
“Training?” Gar asked.
Torrik answered, “The portal between our worlds was supposed to be temporary... and for only one person. Thousands of creatures passed through it, ripping it apart and creating a permanent rift. The barrier between our worlds was crafted by the powerful magic of Merlin the Great... and he has been gone for centuries. No one knows how to fix it. This new rift is stable, so I had the idea that you could use the Great Divide as my people have.”
“I thought it was just protection between worlds?” Chase asked.
Torrik nodded, “It is. But, it also provides a good place to hone our fighting skills. Those creatures all love a good fight. So, the warriors of my people go there to training on a regular basis. I thought, since your world is facing all sorts of unique and strange threats, training with magical beasts might provide extra skills.”
“I like it. I know a lot of heroes who would love a chance to test themselves in that kind of arena.” Chase said.
Justin nodded. “My thoughts exactly. I have asked Torrik to be a liaison between his world and ours. He will provide help in this current crisis. In the future, he will remain a friend of BADGE who will aid us in this new training arena and in future crisis... which we seem to have in steady supply.”
Chase said, “Speaking of crisis. What about the Eye of the Hydra and Lady Echidna?”
“I have taken measures to protect the Eye of the Hydra,” Justin said. “As for Echidna and Nova, I don’t know. For now, we’ll have to take this one day at a time. Perhaps, for once, we’ll have the jump on them by finding the next eye before they do. Gar, walk with me. We need to discuss your recent special mission.” Justin excused himself and spoke with Gar.
Torrik smiled at Chase with that ten-million dollar grin and produced a rose in his fingers. He put it behind her ear. “There, a little color to break up all that black leather.”
She blushed, “Oh, how sweet.”
“Chase.” Justin called her over.
“Excuse me.”
Torrik watched her leave and then heard heavy breathing and muttering. There was a calmness to him as he realized the jealous little bunny was about to chew through the floor to control his green-eyed rage. “Look, EB, you don’t have to be so jealous.”
“I’m not jealous, I just think you are a big, fat, flirt!” EB went to hop away.
“You’re right. I am.”
“What?”
Torrik laughed, “I like to flirt. It’s a nasty habit of Satyrs. I suppose that might be where we got our reputation for lecherousness. But, it is not well earned. Flirting is one thing. In reality, I’m not that attracted to Chase, or any human female.”
“What do you mean?”
“Not enough fur, no tail, no hooves. Those feet.... blech. Give me a sweet pair of goat's legs on a busty Satyr girl any day. Chase is a sweetheart and I love the way she smiles at me. But humans are kinda weird looking.”
EB was aghast and then a little giddy, “So... You don’t want her?”
“Not like you think. She’s all yours. Now, can we be friends?”
EB was bouncing six feet in the air. “Sure, no problem, great friends. It’ll be great to have another magical creature around to talk to. Krystal is nice, but always gone. Santa is my buddy, but so far away. Hey, do you like chocolate? I could...”
All their comms activated with a robotic voice. “Alert, Alert. Neo Utopia distress signal incoming.” The voice changed to Peyton, “BADGE. This is Peyton. It’s her. That Lady Echidna... she just attacked the vault. She got the Eye of Hydra!”
A blinding blur raced across the dusty ground in the Savanna with animals hardly able to move before something buzzed by them. The white dot zipped by with amazing precision and speed. A hero in blue tights came running along and met up with this blur. Both moving at almost the same speed.
“Hey, EB, any luck?” Spark asked.
EB, as focused as he had ever been, shook his head, “No. I’ve been everywhere I can run, which is a lot of places.”
“The UCH League has been helping with the search as well, bupkis.”
EB charged ahead even faster, his feet now creating a spray of ocean water as he zipped over the surface of the Atlantic. “I’m not giving up.”
Spark rushed ahead to keep up with EB, “I know you want to find him, but this isn’t working. We aren’t going to just stumble across Director Nova, obviously he’s hiding.”
“He won’t be hiding. He will want to be found. I will find him. He’s my best friend.” He lost that determined look as his face fought not to cry again.
Spark yelled over the spray of water between them, “Justin wants you back on the station. They aren’t giving up, trust me.”
“No.”
“Please. They’ve lost the Director, they can’t lose you as well.”
EB yelled, “We haven’t lost him forever! I’ll find him!”
“Yes, but let them help.”
EB turned slightly and headed for a small island. He came to an abrupt stop. Spark blasted right by him and had to turn around and come back.
The blonde hero stopped and held his knees as he huffed and puffed, “Man, you’re fast, and coming from me, that’s saying something.”
“Tell Agent Justin that I won’t stop looking.”
Spark said, “They aren’t giving up. But working together will be a better choice. They need everyone. When Nova left, it created a bigger hole in the organization than just one person.”
“Nova’s shoes are impossible to fill.” EB said and then snapped his fingers and a BADGE comm appeared, “It’s time. EB to Quark.”
Quarks’ voice came through, “Oh, good. They found you. I was looking in Australia for you.”
“Nope. I was in Africa. I left Australia like twenty minutes ago. Anyway, can you zap me and my friend to the station?”
“Sure. Stand still.”
“Wait...” Spark started to protest when a blue blast of light surrounded them and they were instantly on the station.
Spark looked around. “Oh, uh, I have to get back to my league. I was just called to find you because I could keep up.”
“Oh, sorry. Where’s your league?”
“Knoxville, Tennessee.” He said.
EB said, “Oops, sorry. Call Quark. He’ll get you there pronto.” He dashed up to the Operations center and found Justin talking with Chase while Gar was on a video feed.
“EB!” Chase called out, extremely happy.
He smiled at her without an ounce of his normal, flirty attitude. “Hi, everyone. Sorry I was gone for so long. I tried to find him, I really did, but he’s just not out there. I mean, he is out there, but I can’t find him. And, I will.”
“We will.” Justin said.
“Any luck so far?” EB asked.
Justin said, “No.”
Gar, with the city of Ka’an Dorado behind him on the screen, said, “No evidence here. The shadow of Krampus is still hanging around, but it only responds to heroes approaching it. It’s like a simulation on the station. He isn’t attacking until provoked. Once defeated, he can be summoned repeatedly. I think he’s just a distraction.”
They watched as yet another hero approached the city center, only to have a monster appear and attack her. No one seemed fazed by this.
“What’s the point?” Justin asked. “Why create this monster we can summon all the time? Only to then steal our Director and disappear?”
EB looked up at Chase. “Do you know more about what Director Nova left you in your thoughts? Have you sorted through the memories?”
“Not entirely. Nova and this woman are not from this world. However, they are ancient. They both were here long, long ago. What I can sort out is that they came as observers and helpers. Both were sent for honorable reasons. But she turned wicked, and he had to stop her. The rest is a hard to sort out. I think he didn’t want me to see everything yet. He is using my own powers to help me. I don’t know what he showed me, but I will discover it as we move forward.”
“What did he mean, ‘be clever’?” Justin asked.
“I don’t know. But I’m sure we’ll figure it out.”
Justin looked up at Gar. “You and Arx keep searching for clues. Anything out of the ordinary that might have been left behind. We need something to go on.”
“Will do.” Gar’s image faded.
“What do I do?” EB asked.
Justin said, “You know Nova better than anyone. Try to think of something we can use to figure out how to find him.”
Chase said, “But he told us not to look for him. It would be too dangerous.”
“I know what he said, but he’s not the Director any longer. I am. And, I say that our enemy has had him long enough. She needs him for her plans, then we need to take him away. Any tool we deprive her of will only hinder her all the more.”
“YES!” EB hopped up and down.
“I hope we know what we’re doing.” Chase whispered.
BADGE agents worked at desks and computers in a rather ordinary office. Without the insignia on the walls and stitched to their clothing, it would appear as just another office space. The people chatted with each other in Swedish while sipping coffee this early morning.
Justin came over the monitor, and his words were auto-translated for them. “This is Acting Director Justin to all BADGE offices. Be on the lookout for any signs of Director Nova. Your leagues are asked to create a dragnet to ensure if he is spotted, we will know about it. Remember, he is with Lady Echidna, a class 10 villain that is not to be approached. Justin out.” The screen changed back to a picture of the Swedish countryside.
A woman with the rank of lieutenant stitched under her badge clicked on a comm line. “BADGE office Stockholm to Nordic Dashers and Ice Bears. We have orders to search for Director Nova. We...”
“Ma’am!” An agent rushed over and tapped her arm.
The Lieutenant looked down at a tablet and saw a video of a man walking through their security checkpoints without any resistance. “Who is that?”
“I don’t know, but the guards aren’t answering me any longer. The security system is inactive.”
The Lieutenant grabbed the tablet from him, “That’s impossible. We have the best security system in the known world. It cannot be hacked or deactivated without... this...this is impossible.” The tablet showed her a complete shutdown of their perimeter security sensors.
“What do we do?”
She shut off the signal and pulled out a gun. “Agents, this is a priority alert. We have a potential intruder.”
The office quickly changed from simple clicking and chatting to full action. These office workers grabbed hidden weapons and prepared themselves. A buzzer sounded in all the corridors, alerting the security officers to go into action.
The intruder strode into the main office. He was dressed in an exquisite suit with a diamond studded cane in one gloved hand while he tipped a top hat in greeting. His eyepatch was stitched with a gold thread that created the outline of an eye.
“Director Nova?” The lieutenant whispered.
He smiled, “Obey me!” His voice boomed and a wave of energy infected every mind in the room. All the agents slowly lowered their weapons and stood up with dazed expressions.
The Lieutenant approached and stowed her gun inside her coat. “What do you wish of me?”
“The secret vault, I want in...now.”
“As you wish.” She turned and led him through the office.
They walked up a short flight of stairs and passed through several security barriers before entering a high-tech room not unlike the Operations center on the station. She punched in a code and a small door opened, hidden in the wall. Inside, she pulled out a key.
“Here, my lord. Take this to the secret vault in Skane County.”
Taking the key with a greedy glint in his one eye, he said, “I know where to take this. Thank you.” He reached over and shut the door on the wall.
Together, they returned to the office area where the people remained in a dazed state. He reached the door and said, “You will not remember anything.”
Moments later, she woke up and was looking down at the tablet again. “What...what were you showing me?”
He looked down at the screen. “There was someone there, but...I guess he’s gone.”
The cool air mixed with a harsh cold from the north. People walked by dressed in thick coats. More than one person took note of the finely dressed man walking among them. Nova, in his black suit and top hat, strolled down the old streets of Stockholm. He paused near a limousine parked outside a high-end jewelry store. The driver stood at the side, waiting to open the door for his employer.
“Good afternoon, sir. May I help you?” The driver asked.
Nova smiled. “I need a ride.”
The man blinked and held his head as the power of Nova sunk in.
A woman in exquisite clothes, draped in a golden silk shawl, walked out. “What are you doing to my driver?”
Nova turned and held his hand out, “You will leave and I will take that shawl for my wife.”
“I will most certainly not. POLICE!” She called out and then went silent.
Nova stepped closer, “Now!”
She smiled and handed him her scarf and merely walked away. He folded it up and then turned to take a seat as the driver had opened the door for him. The driver closed the door and then rushed to fulfill his new boss’s orders.
EB hopped in a circle around Justin much as he often did to Nova. Justin appreciated with the same enthusiasm as Nova.
“Would you stop that? You’re making me dizzy!” Justin barked.
“Oh, sorry.” EB stopped and then asked, “So, you alerted all the leagues and stuff. Now what? Huh? I was thinking that we could access all the cameras and computers in the world. There are like billions of little cameras attached to EVERYTHING. We could see if anyone sees anything. I know, it breaks lotsa laws and stuff, but it would mean we would have eyes everywhere. Just, don’t look in locker rooms, I don’t need to see that much man-stuff, and bathrooms, that would be super creepy and kinda icky. You know, this one time I followed this hot babe all around town and accidentally ended up in the girls’ bathroom at a bar. It was weird. They were screaming, someone called animal control, and I... why are you looking at me like that?”
Justin waited a moment for EB to stop rambling. “We aren’t going to spy on every camera on Earth. Even if we did, we don’t have enough people to watch all that footage.”
“It was just an idea.”
Gar walked into the room with Arx beside him. “We’re back.”
“I know. I saw the shuttle docking. Do you have anything to report?”
Arx said, “No. We scoured every last inch of the throne room and questioned all the remaining witnesses, which weren’t many. Nothing to help figure this out.”
Gar said, “And the Shadow Krampus is like a game now. Heroes are coming just to beat him up and train.”
Justin looked up at the screen, which still displayed the ongoing battles with Krampus. “Let them train. As long as no one is getting hurt and no major property damage is happening. Besides, if Nova or that Lady Echidna shows up in Ka’an Dorado, we’ll already have a pretty powerful force there to tap.”
“What’s the next move then?” Arx asked.
“I don’t know. Patience... I suppose.”
“Incoming Transmission: Stockholm BADGE office.” Robot 10915 announced.
“On screen.”
The woman in charge of that office came on screen. “Acting Director Justin, we have a mystery on our hands. Something just happened here and no one can remember it. There was an alert that someone was here without permission, and then he simply disappeared. I first considered it nothing, but then we found that twelve minutes of time had lapsed that were not only erased from all our computers, security footage, and sensors, but our memories as well.”
“Is there any indication of what happened?”
“No.”
Justin thought about this for a moment. “Our enemy used mind control in Ka’an Dorado to manipulate people. This is too much of a coincidence to not be connected. I will send Gar and Chase to check on this. For now, your office is on top level security. Activate your robot forces. They can’t be mind controlled as easily.”
“Already have the robots working.”
“Good. Alert me if you discover anything before my team gets there.”
“Understood, Stockholm out.” She turned off the signal.
Justin turned around. “Gar, go get Chase and prepare to leave immediately.”
“Right.” Gar left the Operations center.
Arx asked, “What about me? I’d love to help.”
“You’ve done enough so far. You’re in charge of the ATLAS program, and that needs your attention here. If we need your help outside of that, I’ll let you know.”
“Okay.”
EB hopped up and down. “SEND ME! I can help. I know I can. Mind control doesn’t work so well on us Vexillians. I could be there and make sure no one else is hurt or mentally controlled. They won’t get me!”
Justin said, “I need you here. We’re down Nova, who was far more than just one man. With Gar and Chase going, and Arx in charge of ATLAS, I need someone here if something happens.”
“Gotcha... WOW, I get to be like your first officer, your Spock, Riker, or Chewbacca. SOOO COOL!” EB bounced around the room in glee.
Stepping out of the limo in his Louis Vuitton Manhattan Richelie Shoes, Nova gazed up at a hillside.
“Are you sure you want to stop here?” His driver asked from inside the limo.
Nova smiled as he put on a pair of Cartier sunglasses and put them on. “This is exactly where I want to be.”
He walked up the hill and looked out across the bay from this elevated position. The ferry boats scurried in and out of the docks as they transported people. The sun glimmered in the partly cloudy sky, and the winds were chilled, but pleasant. For a brief moment, the arrogant face of this new Nova turned into a softer smile. But, that didn’t last long. He climbed the hill and pressed his hand into a rock. His hand print remained behind and the rock sunk down. Dirt and grass fell away from an ancient door that parted, revealing a short set of stone stairs.
Walking into a long, narrow cave, Nova passed pedestals with artifacts on them that had gathered so much dirt and dust it was hard to tell what lay beneath. The last pedestal at the end of this tunnel was just as encrusted with natural debris as the others. Nova stood before it was a gleam of greed in his smile. He reached down with his gloved hand and picked up a strange iron key that had a shape on the end like a cookie cutter, not a key. It was the shape of a small face of some kind of beast.
“One step closer to the eye.” He whispered.
Nova walked down the hill from the ancient vault and paused to take another long look over the landscape. It was beautiful and peaceful at the same time. The sea roared with waves and many boats going to and fro on daily routines. The nearby city bustled with activity.
“Where did you hide it, my old friend?” He asked the wind and then pulled out an ancient map.
The map, scribbled onto a roughly cut piece of sheepskin flipped at the edges in the breeze. There was little writing on it, but something slowly appeared as he held the key over it. The surface gained more definition as red marks appeared. The coastline formed, and then mountains and a path.
“This is older than the cities here. But I don’t need to know where the cities are, just where this is.” He held the map up and established the orientation so that it matched. With a small smile, he saw that the dot was directly ahead of him.
“Sir?” The driver was now halfway up the hill, nervously waiting for his master to answer.
“What is it?”
“Should I drive you somewhere?”
Nova smiled, “Yes. Take me into Trelleborg. I wish to explore the city.”
“I will take you anywhere, my lord. But tell me what you wish to see. I can help locate anything.”
Nova walked beyond the man, back toward the limo. “You cannot tell me where to find the Eye of Fenrir, but that is okay.”
“I can try.” The man stated, desperate to please his master.
“Just drive.” Nova got into the car and waited while his driver hurried to please him by jumping back into the driver's seat and heading back toward town.
Chase stepped out of the BADGE shuttle that rested on top of the Stockholm HQ. A team of agents managed the landing pad, preparing to move the shuttle to a safe location. Gar stepped out next, which always drew some surprise by people who had never seen a walking statue in person. He smiled at them and then joined Chase.
Lieutenant Bonnie met them on the roof. “Welcome to Stockholm, Chase, Gar.”
Chase shook her hand. “Glad to be here. Wish this was just a vacation trip.”
“BADGE agents never really get to have vacations, do we?” Bonnie said and then led them to a stairwell.
Chase and Gar followed as she asked, “Do you have any further information for us?”
Bonnie pressed her security badge into a panel, and the door opened to the main operations center. “A few additional details that might help, though they mostly just raise further questions and concerns.”
“Like what?” Gar asked.
Bonnie pointed at one of her people at a computer and he put a video on the monitor, which was a quarter the size of the one on the station. Footage showed a man, nicely dressed, appearing out of nowhere. The screen flickered, and the next thing was him walking away.
“Who was that?” Chase asked.
“That’s what I’d like to know. His hat covered his face enough that we couldn’t get an ID. His clothing was all expensive, but unremarkable in any specifics.”
“What do you mean, expensive?” Chase asked.
Bonnie looked back at her agent. The young man put a still image from the footage on the screen and small windows opened that showed information, each with prices and names. “We have a Brioni suit with hat, Neiman Marcus leather gloves, Louis Vuitton Manhattan Richelie Shoes, and that is what our visuals could determine. You’re looking at over twenty thousand dollars in apparel. Not something you see everyday just walking around.”
Gar said, “Lady Echidna wore expensive clothing and so did her army.”
Chase looked at the screen. “But her henchmen weren’t this well dressed. This is opulent to the point of decadent. I’d say we have someone special to her, someone important.”
Bonnie asked, “Do you think this is Director Nova?”
“Look, he is using a cane. Nova uses one for special occasions.” Gar pointed at the screen.
The agent said, “We couldn’t get a maker on the cane, so no info there.”
“Doesn’t matter. Gar’s right. It’s a strong hint that this is Nova. But...what was he doing here? Why did he come and leave without a trace?”
“He didn’t. We do have something else.” Bonnie said.
Chase asked, “What is it?”
Bonnie walked over to the wall and pressed a button, revealing the code pad. She put in a code and then used a key to open a small door. “This is a highly secret, secure vault we use for extremely sensitive materials. When this place was first built, Director Nova insisted that we put one object in here and never let it out without his personal permission. A special key, which we have no idea what it was connected to. It was ancient and the only time I ever saw it, I couldn’t tell why it was so dangerous or important.”
“If he asked for to be this secure, there was a reason.”
“Whatever the reason, it’s gone. It’s the only item in this entire facility that is gone. We’ve checked everything ten times over. Nothing else is missing. And, we don’t have any computer files that he couldn’t obtain on the station or other locations. That was his only objective. However, something was left in the vault.”
“What, he left something?” Chase walked closer to see what Bonnie was pointing at.
Gar frowned. “A pebble?”
Chase leaned in and looked at it. “It’s not just a rock, it’s smooth and has something etched on the surface. Have you taken it out and examined it?”
“Not yet. We wanted to show you before we did that. I was worried it would do something to us.”
Chase looked back at Gar. “I know someone who can probably handle it without being hurt.”
Gar got the hint and walked over to the vault. He carefully picked up the small stone and held it in his hand for a moment. Nothing happened. The agent rushed over with a small scanning device and checked it several ways.
“I’m getting nothing. This is just a piece of granite, polished and etched. Nothing more.”
Bonnie looked at it in Gar’s hand. “What’s on the surface?”
The agent looked at his scanner. “It’s an ancient Nordic etching. The computer is having a hard time identifying it. Wait... I have something. I think this is an ancient symbol for Fenrir.”
Chase frowned. “Fenrir, the mythological dog from Nordic religion?”
Bonnie nodded, “Yes. It is said to be destined to swallow the sun at the end of time. But what on earth is this doing in the vault? Who left it?”
The agent scanned the stone again. “No fingerprints, DNA traces, or anything else to identify who left it.”
Chase asked, “Did anyone get into this vault prior to the discovery of the missing map?”
“No. That vault is under constant surveillance. Except for the twelve minute blackout of all data and memory, no one has gotten into that vault in two years. And since the blackout, I only opened it just thirty minutes ago when we found that stone and the missing map.”
“Then... Nova left this?” Chase walked around, pondering this. “That doesn’t make sense. Why would he leave this? Some sort of joke from Lady Echidna, a ploy to get us to be confused?”
Bonnie said, “Maybe he’s just teasing us, toying with us. Like a criminal who leaves a card behind to thumb their nose at the police.”
“That’s not like him.” Chase said, “But, then again, burglary is not like Nova either.”
Gar said, “He might be trying to help us?” He handed the stone to Chase.
“I doubt that.” Bonnie said, “With all the information we have, he is as mind-controlled as all her other soldiers. This lady Echidna wouldn’t let him...”
Chase’s eye’s widened, and she gasped, “Maybe he is trying to help us.”
“Chase?” Gar leaned in.
She looked up at him. “I sense... a memory. Something is buried in this object. My powers are connecting to it. I’ve never felt something like this before. It’s... strange. Very old. The only thing I know for certain, this memory is from Nova. He’s trying to show me something.”
Nova stepped out of the limo with no small amount of curiosity from the locals. He smiled at them and strode down the street with all the flair bestowed upon anyone wearing such expensive clothes. His wife would have it no other way.
The path was gravel and grass as it led to a recreated Viking Fortress. He paused just before entering the museum and turned with a quick snap of his fingers. “No pictures.”
Several locals had just taken pictures of him on their phones. Now, they couldn’t help but delete the images.
He then said, “That’s enough. Go away.” His command was instantly followed, and the people left him as though they had never even seen him.
With that interruption out of the way, he pushed on the door to enter the historic recreation. The door was locked. He tapped it with his cane and the lock undid itself and he was allowed in.
The place was a nice replica of the ancient style of fortresses the Vikings used to build. They made most of the structures of wood. There was some stonework and flags fluttered in the breeze here and there.
“Where to begin looking?” He walked around the grounds for a moment, considering his options.
A woman rushed out, fury on her face. In Swedish, she yelled at him. “We’re closed until April. You shouldn’t be here!”
He casually turned to look at her. “Ah, a docent. How useful. Perhaps you can answer some questions.”
“Absolutely not. I said...” she shook and then her eyes glazed over.
He smiled again. “As I said, I have questions to be answered.”
“How can I help you, my lord?”
Nova walked toward the longhouse. “Where do you keep the genuine relics?”
She walked him toward the main museum. “We have a lot of genuine relics that date back...”
“I’m looking for something that has been here for more than eleven hundred years. Something that has not been moved from its original location.”
She paused. “Oh, sorry. Our museum has everything moved and cared for inside. Everything outside is a recreation for the experience.”
Nova pulled out the key and showed the end to her. “This, do you know where I could find an image matching this?”
She put on her glasses and gazed at the end. “It appears to be part of a rune, perhaps of an animal. It might even be Fenrir.”
“It is Fenrir. Where do I find the rune that matches this?”
“I’m not sure. I’ll check. Give me a moment.” With that, she ran back toward her office, eager to fulfill her new lord’s wishes.
Nova smiled as he waited for her, always amused at the power of obedience.
Just then, five superheroes appeared around him. Three flew down, one teleported, and one sped up and stopped. He was surrounded.
“Whoever you are, we are the Nordic Wind, the official League of Southern Sweden.” The leader, a man in a caped suit, hovered nearby.
The woman who ran in at blinding speed said, “I can sense morphonic powers. You’re off the charts, sir. Do...wait...no, it can’t be.” She gasped and covered her mouth.
Another flier came closer. “Nova, is that you?”
With a slow turn, he looked up at the hero and smiled. “Yes.”
The leader clicked his BADGE comm unit, but it merely buzzed. “What, it’s not working.”
“Mine is dead as well.” Another hero stated.
Nova casually laughed at them. “Don’t worry, you won’t remember a thing. But I think you have a pressing engagement at the south pole.”
The team all winced as their minds were being invaded by his powers. They struggled and held their heads. Three succumb quickly, but two resisted.
“What are you doing?” The leader flopped to the ground as he tried to shed the power overtaking him.
Nova stamped his cane into the ground and a wave of energy exploded out from him that covered their bodies. His voice came from his mouth like a thousand echos of the same words. “You will obey me. You have a mission in the south pole, GO!”
Everyone was now entirely controlled, and they headed out to fulfill this bogus mission he had planted in their minds.
The docent rushed out, “What was that?”
“Oh, just sending some pests away for a while so I can finish my work uninterrupted. Now, about this key?” He turned to her.
She smiled and held up a printout of a rune stone. “I found it. At least, I think this is it. The face matches that key end perfectly. But I don’t believe it can hold a keyhole.”
“Don’t worry about the details. I’ll deal with them. For now, you really want to go take a nap. When you wake, you won’t remember a thing about my visit.”
Her eyes drooped, and she swayed. “Suddenly, I’m very tired. I think I’ll go rest. Thank you for visiting the museum.” With an enormous yawn, she staggered away from him.
Nova left the recreation and headed back for his limo driver.
Once he sat down, the driver asked, “Where to, sir?”
Nova answered, “Tullstorp.”
“Right away, sir.”
Nova looked over the key as he mused about the impending success.
“My darling.” A sultry voice spoke around him.
Nova closed his eye and found himself standing in the shadows of a dark throne room. Lady Echidna sat upon a throne with her soldiers standing around her in their finest suits. “My lady, I am close to my goal.”
“Are you sure? I need to know you’re being faithful to me.”
Nova walked closer, though he was a shadowy figure in this room. “At this moment, I sit in a limo, riding toward the probable location of the eye. It will soon be yours.”
“Good. Do not disappoint me. That eye is important for step two of this plan.”
“Why not come and see the glorious moment of revelation when I retrieve it? The winters are so lovely here in Sweden.”
She stood from her throne and reached up with a gloved hand as though she were stroking his face. “Ah, my darling. I need to know you’re truly mine. You need to bring me the eye on your own, then I shall know your heart truly belongs to me.”
“It pains me to think you would doubt my loyalty.”
Lady Echidna walked around him. “You betrayed me before. You shoved me into the darkness of The Void and left me to rot for centuries. Trust, my darling Nova, must be regained. You’re under my power, but I know your strength as well as I know mine. I know you are clever. Hand me the Eye of Fenrir, and I’ll know where your heart truly lies.”
He reached out, and his shadowy hand met her face. “I will not fail you, my lady.”
“See that you don’t.”
All at once he was back in the limo seat, truly having not left. The driver was looking back at him through the mirror with a befuddled expression. He asked, “Did you say something to me?”
“No. I was speaking to someone else. Just drive.”
“Ma’am, we have a problem.” The agent in the Stockholm Operations center announced.
Lieutenant Bonnie asked, “What is it?”
“The daily update from the Nordic Wind did not happen. When I tried to contact them, there was no answer. They locked their base down and our sensors do not show any of their comm signals in the country.”
Chase, still there, asked, “Do you not have them on any tracking?”
“I’m expanding our sensor range to see if I can pick up their signals.” He ran his calculations and then answered, “I’m getting five pings, all the league is showing up... heading south.”
“South?” Bonnie asked.
He said, “Yes, they’re moving at top speed and their path is directly south. They’re currently over Morocco.”
“MOROCCO!”
Chase said, “This is getting stranger by the moment.”
Bonnie looked at the monitor, which now displayed the five signals traveling across the globe. “This does have one dangerous impact. The Nordic Wind was our only local league in southern Sweden. With them gone, we are much weaker.”
Chase said, “We need answers.”
Gar came in holding the rune stone like it was a precious prize. “The analytical people checked it all out. It is not dangerous.”
Chase said, “I need to use my power and explore this memory to see what this is and why it was left here.”
Bonnie asked, “Are you sure? You could take it back to the station and let the labs up there take a look. I know you just spent time in a coma because of someone tampering with your powers.”
Chase looked at Gar and then at Bonnie. “We don’t have the luxury of time. I have to try. My intuition tells me this was meant to help us.”
“I hope you’re right.”
Chase held the stone tight and focused on her powers.
The wind cut sharply around Nova as he approached the small park. The countryside was barren this time of year, with old piles of snow still resting in corners and shadows. There were no tourists or docents around this archaic stone, but it wasn’t in need of much protection.
Nova stopped before a circular path that had benches all directed inward. Everything gazed directly at an ancient runestone planted on a small mount of grassy earth.
“I wonder, is this it?” He muttered under his foggy breath.
Approaching the stone, he read the ancient script that ran around the outside of the image. With a clever smile he read, “Raised in monument to Ulfr. You sneaky snake, you made a monument to yourself to hide the keyhole.”
He pulled out the key and leaned in, looking at the face of the canine monster depicted at the center. The shape of the key, almost like a cookie cutter, matched the head of the beast.
“You can be clever, but not clever enough.” He whispered as he pressed the key into the face.
Chase held the stone in her hands, concentrating on her powers. She was ready to describe her vision, as normally she merely experienced the history in her mind and would be able to talk to those around her. However, the moment she truly began digging into the latent memory buried in this stone, she gasped and froze.
She was now the invisible observer of history. Her sight followed a man she recognized well as he walked along the grassy ground. Director Nova stood there, in rustic clothing from an age long ago, an eyepatch on his face, and a little more color in his hair. He approached a man who sat on a large stone, dressed in a roughly spun blue tunic with heavy boots and thick, grey pants of the same material. He had long hair and a thick beard. This person would blend into any crowd among the peoples of this land Nova had met. Only his eyes stood out in stark contrast, as they were a strange, glowing green hue.
The strange man smiled at Nova. “Another god of this world come to finish me?”
Nova paused and spent a moment sizing up this person. “Are you up for a fight?”
This drew anger from the strange man and he stood with a threatening posture. “I will not be bested by any pathetic creature of this world. I have eaten their strongest demons and crushed their most powerful myths. You, little human, are nothing to me.”
Nova was not intimidated. “If you’re so confident, why did you call me a god?”
“I sense something about you, something... strange. You aren’t like these pathetic meat bags.”
Nova casually approached the hulking man, “Then I have found the man I was looking for. You too are not of this world and are far greater in power, at least you once were.”
“I WILL GET MY POWER BACK! THERE IS NO SUNSET ON MY STRENGTH.”
“Just a pause.” Nova added.
The man plopped back down on the stone with irritation. “It shall only last a few more centuries, ten at most. Until then, I will enjoy the hospitality of those meat bags that call themselves Vikings. They understand a good fight, a good drink, and pride.”
“They are also thick headed and doom driven half the time.” Nova added.
“Ah, but that’s what makes them fun. I don’t get attached to my pets, so it matters little to me.” The strange man laughed with a deep, hearty bellow.
Nova wasn’t laughing, his demeanor was cold and calculating.
The Strange Man’s humor lessened and turned to concern as Nova quietly observed him. “What do you want with me?”
“First, why are you here?” Nova asked.
The Strange Man gestured around him. “I told you, I like these Vikings. Their pitiful gods tried to have me killed, and I put them all to their own death. So, I celebrate their freedom with them.”
“You can lie to many people, but not me. For a man who claims to have killed the gods, you seem weak.”
“I AM NOT WEAK!”
Nova calmly said, “Why are you here?”
“Are you hard of hearing as much as you are hard of sight, winky? I said I like these Vikings!”
“I don’t mean these lands, I mean this world. I know who you claim to be. I know what the humans called you, Jormurgandr. You are a sign to the Nords of the end of time, Ragnarok.”
“BAH! I don’t care about their silly religion. I’m not the sign of the end of time. I’m just...”
“Extremely dangerous, unpredictable, and capable of killing many of the ancient titans who set themselves up as gods to the young humans.”
Jormurgandr snickered, “So, I am somewhat of a world ender. The word of false gods and pitiful deities. They tasted good, if I might add.”
“But why are you here, living as a man? I can sense your power. You aren’t nearly as strong as you could be.”
The Man leaned back on his palms against the rock’s surface. “I came here as I have to many worlds, seeking challenge, seeking balance between good and evil. I like things on an even field. I grew weak after the last world I balanced, and a creature called Loki summoned me here. He was what you call a god, but truthfully, just one of the titans of old who set himself up as a god among many in a pantheon called Asgard. I was fine. They were heavy drinking, partying, fun-loving people. That is, until the head guy, Odin, grew fearful of me once he realized who I really was. He threw me into the ocean and called on all the other titans to kill me. They threw everything at me, but they had nothing to compare. I ate up their demons and monsters, then I killed them. No titans, no problem. But, it cost me a lot of strength. Now I’m like this. I am not weak by the measure of a human, but I am certainly not the man I once was.”
Nova smiled. “I know of your story. I too came here to rid this world of the titans setting themselves up as gods. I and one other set out to bring peace to these people. The humans have a great potential they don’t even know yet.”
“Bah, who cares? When I am stronger, I will rid this galaxy of this world and move on to the next.”
Nova turned to him and said, “You will not. I will defend this world from all threats, including creatures as powerful as you.”
Jormurgandr leaned forward and said, “Just how do you plan on stopping me?”
Nova raise both arms and his body became a brilliant light that sent Jormurgandr tumbling backward off his rock and hitting the ground. Nova spoke, his voice booming like a great thunder rolling across the ocean. “I AM MORE THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE AND YOU WILL NEVER CHALLENGE ME OR YOU WILL FACE A WRATH UNLIKE ANY YOU CAN FATHOM!”
The light died down and Jormurgandr trembled as he sat up. “What are you?”
“You have not earned the privilege of knowing my true identity. However, I see in you a kindness you hide well, a sympathy you hold in a secret place in your heart. This is why I sought you out, Jormurgandr. I need your help.”
The man calling himself Jormurgandr stood next to the rock Nova’s unique power had thrown him off of. There was a true ounce of fear in his eyes as he gazed at Nova.
“What do you want of me? What could I possibly help you with?” Jormurgandr asked.
Nova put his hand in a pocket of his robes and said, “You know of the beast the Nords call Fenrir?”
“Yes. It was one of the monsters they threw at me. I killed it and ate its pitiful form long ago.”
Pulling something out of his pocket, Nova said, “There is another being in this world who equals my power, the only other sent to watch over this place. However, she has turned wicked and delved into darkness. Evil is a trap for my kind. Once you‘ve tasted of that kind of power, your soul is eaten and your heart destroyed.”
“Sounds like a woman I’d like to meet.” Jormurgandr joked.
Nova gave him a chilling gaze. “No, she is far more sinister than you can believe. She would not entertain you. She would destroy you for being a rival.”
“I’D LIKE TO SEE HER TRY!”
Nova’s eye flashed a bright light and Jormurgandr lost some of his zeal, “Even at your strongest, you would not be a match for her alone. As you are now, you would not survive.”
“Then why come to me for help?” Jormurgandr asked.
“She wants to begin an age of darkness in this world and use it as her divine realm of evil with which to spread the darkness across the universe. Her heart touches the darkness, and the more she has, the stronger she will become. She has begun this effort by crafting demonic creatures of great power based on the myths and legends of the humans. Her most powerful creature thus far has been a recreation of Fenrir, made of shadow.”
“I may not be strong enough now to fight such a creature.”
Nova laughed, “No, you are not. However, I was able to overpower its darkness with my light. I destroyed it... or so I thought. It is mere shadow, a being that cannot be destroyed while she lives. But I have contained it to the object that she used to cast it.” Now Nova revealed a ruby in the shame of a rhombus.
“Is that Fenrir?”
“It is... or rather was its eye. Once I destroyed the body, this is all that remained. She just needs to touch it and it will revive.”
“Do you want me to destroy it?”
“You cannot, neither can I. Only on her death can it be destroyed, and I fear nothing of this world can kill her at this time. So, I’m forced to find ways to contain her power. She does not know of you. Your conquests over the titans of old caught my attention, but she was focused more on her own burgeoning realm. Once I realized you could be an ally of mine, I made certain she never knew of you. With your power reduced, she is sure not to easily find you, or even know to look for you.”
“Is she out there seeking this?”
Nova shook his head, “Not at this time. I defeated not only her version of Fenrir, but her as well. I cannot destroy her, I have reduced her to a weaker state. However, she will regain her strength in time. I need you to take this and hide it, seal it so that it cannot be found easily. Do not even tell me.” He held out the stone.
Jormurgandr did not immediately take it. “Why would you trust me? You say I have goodness in me...bleh! I am the world eater! I killed the titans to amuse myself, not to make life better. I like killing things...that means I’m not the good guy.”
Nova held the stone closer to Jormurgandr. “You are a loud, brash, arrogant creature, and you enjoy being so. But, for someone who proclaims he enjoys killing things, you have left the humans relatively untouched. Why?”
“They aren’t worth killing.”
“Don’t lie to me. I may only have one eye, but I can see the truth in you. You understand the concept of justice. This is why you seek balance in the universe. Justice is balance.”
“Okay, maybe you’re right.”
Nova took Jormurgandr’s hand and put the stone in it. “I have few I can trust, but I know you will do what is right. And, in the future, when this is all done, I will help you.”
“How can you help me?”
“We will see. Just know, if you betray my trust, I will be as ruthless as you, and you have had a taste of my power.”
Jormurgandr said, “Fine.”
Nova turned to leave, but paused. “What do the humans call you?”
“I am Jormurgandr, the great serpent...”
“No, what do they call you to your face?”
“Oh, Ulfr the Loud.”
Nova laughed, “I like that. Fitting.”
“You will call me Jormurgandr.” His tone was demanding.
Nova said, “No. That is the name of a demonic force for fear and death. You are here, protecting this world as much as I am now. Another name for Jormurgandr is Midgardsormr, which is a way of saying this world. So, I think I’ll call you Midgard. That way you will know it is I who speaks to you.”
“MIDGARD!” He pondered that for a moment and then smiled. “I like it. If a man comes to me and says that name, I’ll know it is from you, and no other.”
“Good luck, Midgard. I go to continue my protection of this world.”
As Nova walked away from the weakened form of Midgard, the vision faded away around Chase. She watched the current world come into focus around her, with Lieutenant Bonnie and Gar both watching her.
Bonnie asked, “Well? What just happened? You were standing there silent for a long time.”
Chase fell to the side and was caught by Gar. She said, “That took a lot of my power to witness. Nova... left me a message, a piece of his past.”
“Why would he do this?” Bonnie asked.
Gar set Chase up and held her gently by the shoulders. “Is this a trick?”
“I don’t think so. I think Nova is trying to help us. He just showed me what he is here for, or rather, what Lady Echidna has sent him here for. Just like she recreated Krampus, she once created a version of Fenrir that Nova battled. He defeated it and reduced it to a single stone. If she gets it, she can use it for her own evil.”
“We defeated Krampus. This will be no different.” Gar proudly proclaimed.
Chase shook her head. “I think this is much stronger and much more powerful. We have to find where it was hidden before Nova can get to it.”
Bonnie asked, “Okay, so where do we look?”
“He asked someone else to hide it and never tell him where it was hidden.”
“That’s bad.” Bonnie said. “He already has a head start on us.”
“True. But I think I know who we need to ask.”
“Are you absolutely sure about this?” Justin asked.
Chase spoke to him from the Stockholm location with Gar and Bonnie on either side of her. “Yes. I saw it myself. Nova gave this Eye of Fenrir to Midgard a long time ago and told him to hide it. Now, Nova is looking for it. And, trust me, if he gets it, bad things will happen.”
“Fine. I’ll try to get him. But you know Midgard really only paid attention to Nova.”
Chase said, “If he’s a problem, get me on his comm.”
“You think you can convince him?”
“I don’t know, but I will try.”
Justin huffed and pressed a button on his tablet, shifting the view screen to footage from Ka’an Dorado. Heroes sat around on rooftops as they cheered on the fight between Midgard and another incarnation of Shadow Krampus. This looked more like a pro-wrestling event, not heroes protecting the world from harm.
“Sheesh, this is getting out of hand.” Justin muttered. He pressed a different button. “Krystal, are you there?”
Her voice came through, with a lot of noise in the background. “Justin, I can barely hear you.” After she said this, he watched Midgard pile-drive Krampus into the city square as the heroes cheered.
Justin waited a moment and then said loudly, “I need to talk to Midgard!”
“You want me to find the local city guards?”
“NO I NEED TO TALK TO MIDGARD!” He bellowed into the comm.
“Oh, uh... that could be a problem.”
Justin stopped, changed the volume output on her end through his computer, and then said, “It is a matter of dire urgency. Get to him.”
“Okay. I’ll try.”
Nova waited while the runestone reacted to the key he had inserted into the face. The etching of Fenrir over a viking boat was a perfect example of the style for the age. He couldn’t help but be amused at the craftsmanship put into this. Slowly, a glow traced the etching, like someone lighting a long fuse.
“Who are you?” A woman rushed down the path.
Nova turned and smiled at her. “Just a tourist.”
“Do not touch that stone... what have you done!? Stabbed a knife into it? This…”
“Go away.” He commanded. “Do not remember anything of me. You were never here.”
She gained a glazed look and walked away.
“Good.”
He continued with his work. Nova tried to figure out how to open it.
“How did he do this?” Nova looked all over it. As his hands ran over the surface of the glowing lines, he felt the power surge in it.
A voice came from the stone. “This stone is impervious to all you do, but answer this riddle to get through. To death, the gods tried to have me put, where the battle their lives I took, know the answer without fail, if you know where they say I bit my tail.”
Nova stood back, “What on earth does that mean?”
The stone repeated, “This stone is impervious to all you do, but answer this riddle to get through. To death, the gods tried to have me put, where the battle their lives I took, know the answer without fail, if you know where they say I bit my tail.”
Nova grew angry. “I don’t have time for riddles and games.” He reached his hand out and a blinding light came from him, but the moment he did this, he grabbed his head and fell to his knees in pain. “What... what is wrong with me?” The pain left his head as he sat there.
The voice of Lady Echidna came to his ears, “My beloved, you aren’t trying to harness your power, now are you?”
“My lady, I only wish to use it to advance your plans.”
“No. You betrayed me once before. I’ll not have this again. Figure this out without using your full strength, or I’ll bind you forever in my dungeon and complete this task on my own.”
“No, do not forsake me, my love. I’ll do as you ask.”
“Good. Now, bring me that eye!” Her voice faded into the distance.
Nova recovered quickly and stood once again before the stone. “So, I must figure this riddle out. Fine, how complicated can it be coming from that oaf?”
“TAKE THAT YOU PATHETIC CHRISTMAS CRACKER!” Midgard, in his massive serpent form, grabbed Krampus from behind and then leaned back, tossing the shadow beast over him and slamming it headfirst into the ground. This time, the Krampus exploded into a black mist and the fight was over. It was night and most of this part of the city was vacant, except for the heroes. They had brought lights in order to shine down on the battle so the viewers could see better. Fortunately, BADGE kept the media from turning this into a global spectacle. Justin figured League Wars was enough entertainment from the heroes, the citizens didn’t need to watch this foolishness.
The crowds cheered, exchanged bets, and left to get refreshments. Midgard strutted around, taking in all the glory.
“WANT TO SEE ME DO IT A FIFTH TIME TONIGHT? HUH!” He egged on the crowds and they grew into a rowdy roar.
Krystal flew up near his head. “No time. You’re needed.”
He batted his giant hand at her, “Go away, gnat!”
She dodged his hand and came up closer. “Look, this is all fun, but they need...” she dodged his hand again.
“BAH! I’M HAVING FUN!”
Krystal recognized a lost cause, so she had to resort to Plan B. She tapped her comm unit, told Justin what to do, and then cast a spell that sent the small video feed from her wrist come as a floating image many times bigger. Chase appeared before Midgard on a flat, misty cloud.
“Midgard, we need your help.”
“What is this? I don’t...”
Chase held up the rune stone. “The man who gave you the name Midgardsormr is lost and in need of all of us. The woman who has bewitched him is using him to find something you hid a long time ago.”
Midgard’s demeanor suddenly shifted to shock and a little sadness. “The Eye of Fenrir.”
“Yes. I know of it. He shared with me memories of the day he first met you. Now, we need you before everything goes to south.”
Midgard looked around, seeing all the heroes paying attention to this giant conversation. He softly nodded. “I’ll be there.” He threw his hand out, destroying the image and grabbing everyone’s attention. “ENOUGH OF THIS! WE HAVE A LEADER TO FIND! NO MORE GAMES!”
Heroes balked at this. Some even threw their paper cups at him. He reached back and let out a massive, ground shaking roar, and said, “YOU HEARD ME! UNLESS YOU WANT TO BE DINNER, GO!!!”
This changed their attitudes quickly. Midgard transformed back into his smaller self, standing in the middle of the street that he had turned into an arena for too many days.
Krystal flew down and joined him. “Are you ready?”
“Yes.”
“Where do I send you?”
He thought for a moment and then said, “Send me to Tullstorp, Sweden. Tell Chase and the others to meet me there. If Nova is looking for the stone, that is where he will be.”
“Tullstorp it is.” She waved her hand, and a portal appeared in front of him.
With unusual reluctance, he stepped through, traversing the planet in three seconds.
Nova paced in front of the stone, the sun setting behind him as he fought to think of the answer. The riddle played again and again in his mind.
He muttered it aloud as he thought, “This stone is impervious to all you do, but answer this riddle to get through. To death, the gods tried to have me put, where the battle their lives I took, know the answer without fail, if you know where they say I bit my tail.” He looked at the carving for clues. “So, the gods sent everything at him and tried to kill him, but where? They threw him in the sea... that’s it...” He yelled at the stone, “SEA!”
Nothing happened.
Growing more frustrated, he said, “Ocean.”
Still nothing.
“Maybe he used old Norse. That would make sense.” After a moment of recollection, he said, “Harr, Sear, Sand-himinn, vidir,... come on, those are all words for sea. These stupid Vikings loved their water!” He hit the stone.
There was a bright flash of purple behind him and footsteps in the gravel. A smooth, deep voice said, “The Nova I knew would never punch a rock just because he was angry.”
Nova turned around, his face red, “Jormurgandr. Pretty bold of you to show up.”
“You know me, loud and present. I like being where the action is. If I knew we were fighting rocks, I would’ve punched a few mountains on the way.”
“Don’t make fun of me, you pathetic snake. You know I can put you down.” Nova struck a bold pose.
Midgard smiled at him. Even in his small, human form, his smile was devilish. “The last time we stood here, in this land, I was weak and recovering from battling the gods and their minions. Today, little man, I’m much stronger and you, Nova, are much weaker. That woman has taken the strength out of you.”
Nova refused to back down. “I’m not weak. I’ve never shown this world my fullest strength. If you want a fight that you’ve never truly faced, Jormurgandr, I will give you one that will rattle even your immortal bones.”
“I’m not scared of you, Wink.” Midgard prepared to fight.
Nova spoke with a booming voice, “ON YOUR KNEES, SERPENT!”
Midgard stepped back, shaken by that power, but he merely smiled. “Nice try, but you know that would never work on me.”
Nova bellowed, “ON YOUR KNEES!”
Midgard laughed, “Keep trying, Wink, it’s funny watching you fail.”
“If you won’t take my command, then you will have to be put down.” A large, beautiful sword appeared in Nova’s hand, a sword he once used to fight Jinn.
Midgard chuckled, “Oh, gonna poke me with your toothpick?” He began to grow in size.
“Not today!” Nova held up his hand, and a white glow came from his palm. Midgards size change stopped, and it forced him back into a human size.
Midgard staggered back, holding himself. “Okay, that... was unexpected. I didn’t know you could do that.”
“There is little I can’t do, Jormurgandr.” Nova rushed toward Midgard, his sword ready to strike.
Midgard dodged a swing, then another, and with a third dodge, he planted a fist in Nova’s side. Nova stumbled away and Midgard grabbed him by the coat tail and threw him across the grass. “I JUST BODY SLAMMED A TEN STORY KRAMPUS, YOU’RE NOTHING, LITTLE WINK!”
Nova bounded up from his laying position, spinning directly into the air with his sword acting like a mower. Midgard attempted to dodge, but the tip met him.
Midgard fell, holding his face. When he pulled his hand away, he saw greenish red blood. “Okay, that’s new.”
“YAH!” Nova was coming down for a killing strike.
Midgard barely dodged it and kicked Nova in the gut, throwing him across the yard and slamming him into the Runestone.
A BADGE shuttle flew in, the door opening before the ship had fully landed. Gar flew out. Chase dropped to the ground and running. When the shuttle actually landed, Bonnie joined them with four armed agents.
“Nova!” Gar called out.
Chase asked, “Midgard, why are you here? We needed you back at HQ.”
“I’m here for my friend, not you.”
Bonnie, who held a small laser pistol, said, “Looks like your friend isn’t so friendly.”
Nova stood there, holding his sword at the ready. “Ah, BADGE, just in time.”
Midgard actually said, “Oh, no.”
Nova called out, “Your enemy is yourself, fight for me!” His voice echoed and everyone, except Midgard and Gar, grew dizzy and then looked at each other with fear.
“DON’T LISTEN TO HIM!” Midgard called out.
“Too late.” Nova laughed.
Chase threw her blades at Gar, whose stone body deflected them. Bonnie shot at Chase, but Chase dodged the attack. The four agents fought each other.
Midgard yelled, “HEY, BATWINGS! STOP THEM, I’LL STOP NOVA!”
Gar got the message and rushed in to keep everyone from killing one another.
Midgard ducked his head down and ran toward Nova, who had his sword ready for the attack. Midgard’s arms grew green and scaly and a tail shot out the back of his outfit. He wasn’t able to grow to full size with how Nova kept him at bay, but he wasn’t human either. Nova swung his sword, but Midgard’s scaly arms deflected the blows with clever swings.
“You’re not my friend!” Midgard said as he dodged swings of the sword.
Nova spun around and went for Midgard’s tail, but missed. “You were nothing but a tool. Didn’t you know that?”
Midgard grabbed Nova’s arm and then head butted him, staggering him away. “I know my friend, Wink. The director I know...” he kicked at Nova’s leg, forcing him to a kneeling position. He grabbed the arm with the sword and twisted. Nova managed to maintain his grip on the blade, but it wasn’t much of a threat in this position. With Midgard’s other hand, he grabbed Nova by the hair and yanked his head back, “The director I know was my friend, and I say that about few living creatures across this universe. He hasn’t called me Jormurgandr for ten centuries. He gave me a new name, one that I hold with great respect and honor.”
The power of Nova over the other people vanished as his focus was tested by this ignominious position. They stopped and looked up from their haze to see Midgard ready to kill.
Nova, his head being forced back, looked at the stone from this upside down position and whispered, “The answer...it was right in front of me.”
“What, Wink?”
With uncanny agility and strength, Nova pulled his hand free from Midgard’s and swiped across with his sword. It hit Midgard in the chest and he stumbled back. Then, with his newfound freedom, Nova shoved the sword into Midgard’s gut and whispered, “I know the answer to your riddle... Midgard.” He ripped the blade out.
Midgard held his midsection as he fell to the side, defeated. “This is not possible.”
Nova looked at the stone, “This world, that is where the gods tried to kill you, where you fought their demons, and where the legendary Jormurgandr wrapped around the planet and bit his own tail. This world...Midgardsormr.”
The runes flashed and flickered as the stone crumbled apart, revealing a glowing red ruby.
Chase ran to Midgard as Nova stood, holding the Eye of Fenrir.
“Oh, God.” She gasped at the sight of all the blood.
Midgard growled out, “I’ll live, but that bastard will not get away with this.”
Nova looked down at his victim. “I could have killed you. I wanted to see if you could take genuine pain for once in your life.”
“PAIN! I’LL SHOW YOU... ACK!” Midgard tried to move, but his wound prevented him from his attempt at throttling Nova.
Nova turned around and strolled away. “It is over, BADGE. There is nothing left for you to hope for.”
Chase stood and pointed her gun at Nova. “I will not let you take that to her. I saw your past. I know how dangerous it will be.”
Nova looked at her with a dismissive gaze. “What are you prattling about?”
“I know you were the one who brought that here, that you had it hidden. It scared you, which means I cannot simply let it go.”
Nova came close to her, the gun inches away from him. “I don’t care what you think you know. But, I do know that you... none of you, have it within you to kill your beloved Director. I am going to turn and walk away, graciously allowing you to live for today. But know I will bring you down if you try to stop me.”
Chase had tears in her eyes as she looked at him, the terrible image of pulling that trigger flooding her mind. Her hand trembled as it lowered.
Midgard said to the others, “Listen to him, you’re no match for what he is. I should know.”
Nova quietly turned from her and walked away. Everyone lost heart at the sight of his exit. They had spent so much time searching for him, and now he was right there before them and all they can do was watch him leave again.
The echoing sounds of sonic booms broke the moment. Each one grew louder than the last as something approached. Even Nova stopped and turned around at the sound of this.
“What trickery is this?” He asked.
Before anyone could figure out what was happening, a white blur hit him so hard that he flew fifty yards across the ground and rolled. A final sonic boom echoed around them, destroying trees, scattering gravel, and forcing everyone to grab their heads in pain.
When Nova came to a stop in the field, EB sat on his chest and was yelling, “I FOUND HIM! I GOT HIM! BUDDY! I’M HERE TO SAVE YOU FROM THAT NASTY, AWFUL, HORRIBLE, UGLY, NASTY....I ALREADY SAID THAT, UH...OH, WHO CARES! I FOUND YOU!!!” He grabbed Nova and held him like a sad puppy finally in his owner’s arms.
“GET OFF ME!” Nova shoved and fought against the bunny.
“I’m never letting you go, buddy!” EB stayed attached as Nova got up and attempted to pry the bunny off his chest.
Chase called out, “EB! You can’t help him! Get back here!”
“Listen to her, you annoying little rodent!” Nova yelled.
EB dropped off and smiled at Nova. “Oh, you don’t mean that. Though it’s so nice to hear that irate tone again. I missed you.”
“I didn’t miss you. Go, leave. I’m done here.” Nova turned around and bounced off an invisible barrier.
EB clapped his paws together and a golden cord wrapped around Nova's waist. “Nope. I gotcha. You’re coming home with me. We’re gonna make you all better and then go give that witch what’s coming to her.” As he said this, he was dragging Nova across the ground by an invisible force connected to that cord he had materialized.
“YAH!” Nova thrust his arms out and the cord burst apart. “Enough of this! I am leaving, and if you don’t stop trying to keep me here, you’re going to see exactly how mad I can get.”
EB turned, a strikingly angry look on his face. “You don’t realize that I am not the Easter Bunny, I am a Vexillian. I fought off Legion and survived to tell the tale. I faced Jinn, Krampus, and all the other jerks who have come up against BADGE. Don’t mess with me. You are coming back to the station.” EB thrust his paws forward and a magical force struck Nova.
“EB stop! You don’t know what you’re dealing with!” Chase said.
“PSSH! I can deal with this.” He summoned two eggs and threw them just as Nova got back to his feet. Both eggs exploded on contact, emitting clouds of colorful gas.
Nova wavered and seemed as though he were about to collapse when he shook it off and pulled out his sword.
EB laughed, “Weapons against me! HA! Just try to hit me!” He went to top speed, dashing around Nova, throwing eggs periodically as he went by.
Nova swung his blade, but kept missing. He would stumble to the side this way and that as eggs exploded against him. Another golden cord appeared and wrapped around him ten times, binding his arms to his sides and pulling him down into a sitting position.
EB stopped, holding the end of that cord. “See, I gotcha.”
All at once, Nova became a blinding light, and the surrounding cord dissolved away. Everyone had to cover their eyes at the sight of his power. The light rose, growing brighter as it did.
Chase looked up into the light for a brief moment and then cried out in pain.
The voice of Nova, now a thundering boom, came through the light. “I will not be stopped! You are nothing compared to me!”
EB shrunk away, covering his eyes. “Buddy... please, stop.”
The light vanished, and Nova stood there, simply in his exquisite suit. However, he was just as bewildered as everyone else.
“What just happened?” He asked.
Helicopters appeared from visibility blocking shields and lowered. A dozen finely dressed soldiers descended on ropes, each brandishing AMA weapons. A cloud of black smoke appeared. From within strode Lady Echidna in a red dress with a devilish mask on her face. Her diamonds sparkling in the light of day.
“Now, now, my love. What did I say about using your real power?”
EB threw an exploding egg at Lady Echidna, but Nova swiped his cane and deflected it.
She turned with a chortling laugh. “Nice try, little bunny.”
Nova carefully pulled out the Eye of Fenrir from his pocket. “My lady, I found what you desire.”
“Ah, the beauty. I did make such wonderful trinkets back in those days, did I not?” She did not touch it just yet.
Chase said, “please, don’t.”
Midgard, still on the ground, said, “Don’t let her touch it.”
The BADGE agents moved to stop her, but her soldiers drew closer.
She smiled at Midgard. “It is not time for the end. There is so much more to do. But for now. Perhaps a taste.” She snapped her fingers and her soldiers all grabbed their ropes and returned to the helicopters that brought them.
Nova stood next to her and smiled at them. “It’s been fun. I do hope you live through this.”
With that, Lady Echidna held his arm, and both vanished in a puff of black smoke. The smoke did not blow away, but continued to grow. In fact, it grew exponentially. Two red eyes appeared within.
EB ran toward Chase, “It’s another Krampus!”
Midgard whispered, “No, that’s not Krampus. This is much, much worse. That’s Fenrir.”
The sun darkened as if a solar eclipse were happening. The land grew ominously shadowed with red glowing light seeping out of every crevasse. Fenrir, at least a shadowed version of him, left by Lady Echidna, slowly took shape as a behemoth dog with terrible fangs, dark fur, and glowing red eyes.
Chase, still holding the injured Midgard, felt her wrist buzz. She quickly clicked it on. “This is Chase. We have a situation down here.”
Justin came through, “Yes. A strange shadow is forming at your location. We cannot figure out where it is coming from.”
Midgard said, “Fenrir is eating the sun. It is destiny. But this isn’t the real Fenrir. That creature is dead. I killed it long ago. This thing is just a shadow demon, a monster emulating the real thing.”
Justin asked, “Can you stop it?”
“I doubt it.” Midgard said, “I hate to admit this, but we’re gonna need help.”
Bonnie rushed over, her BADGE agents taking aim at the forming monster. She spoke for Justin to hear, “We’re registering a power level much greater than the Shadow Krampus.”
“Understood.” The comm clicked off, and then the alert system buzzed and his voice came from all the comms present and across the world. “Acting Director Justin to all heroes. We have a code red in Tullstorp Sweden. I repeat, a code red in Tullstorp, Sweden. Respond with all force.”
“WATCH OUT!” Bonnie screamed as the giant head of the dog reached down to snap up everyone.
Midgard suddenly transformed into his massive size and grabbed it by the mouth, holding it off. He screamed with a painful yell and threw Fenrir away. “Don’t just stand there, KILL IT!” He yelled.
EB formed eggs in his hands and threw, “TAKE THAT YOU UGLY MUTT!” Colorful explosions rained across the side of its body.
Chase couldn’t help but notice the bleeding gash in Midgard as he fought. This was hell for him, but he wasn’t backing down. For the first time, she truly had respect for this loud, obnoxious monster. Today, he was truly a hero.
“You heard him!” Chase ran at the thrashing beast and threw her magic blades directly for its glowing eyes.
The agents stood back and took aim with their weapons, pouring fire at it. Gar ran fast and took to the skies. He swooped around Midgard, dodged a thrashing motion of Fenrir, and smashed it in the side of the head with one stone fist.
Fenrir whipped its head to the side and slapped Gar to the ground with a hard crash. It then rammed into Midgard, shoving him back. His feet scraping across the ground. Everyone below had to dive to avoid being crushed. The impact destroyed the BADGE shuttle, with Fenrir continuing to shove.
Midgard, working his best to keep it at bay, “WE CAN’T LET IT GO, IT WILL DESTROY EVERYTHING! AND I’M NOT LOSING TO A FAKE VERSION OF SOMETHING I ONCE ATE!!” He let out an enormous grunt as he head butted it right back, and then grabbed it around the neck.
Chase stopped fleeing the catastrophe and looked for an opening to hit this. “It’s not enough. I can’t do... we can’t do this.”
Bonnie ran up next to Chase, blasting away with a handgun. “Hit it in the eye again!”
“I won’t do anything.”
“We have to try. That thing will crush every city in Southern Sweden.”
The agents joined them and were firing.
Chase readied herself to fight, even if this was her last fight. She crouched slightly and was ready to run and throw her blades until she had no strength left.
EB ran up, with an egg almost as big as him. He threw it quickly to the ground just as Fenrir took a
step. The egg exploded with a massive ball of fire and Fenrir staggered to the side. “HA! Take that!”
Fenrir roared and let out a blast of red flames at Midgard and then turned its head toward the ground, ready to incinerate EB.
EB dashed around, avoiding both the flood of flames and the now burning patches of grass. “Hey. watch it! No burning the bunny!” He jumped, flipped over, and threw another egg at the dog, which exploded with a purple cloud that surrounded its face. “Like that smell? Now you sleep!”
Fenrir wobbled and Midgard grabbed it by the neck again and threw it over himself and slammed it into the ground behind them. The misty black cloud around it swirling about.
“WE GOT IT!” EB hopped around in joy.
The cloud reformed as a standing dog and it bit down on Midgard, its teeth digging into the existing sword wound. Midgard screamed in pain, perhaps for the first real time in centuries.
Chase threw blades at Fenrir while EB threw egg after egg at its face.
“LET OUR FRIEND GO!” EB yelled.
Fenrir hardly noticed their onslaught and shook its head as it almost bit Midgard in half.
Bonnie ran up to Chase, “We can’t do this! If Midgard can’t fight it, we’re lost.”
Chase looked down at her comm unit, it was blinking blue, “We aren’t lost, we just got backup.”
Portals and flashes of light appeared as heroes came running toward the battle. Ten BADGE shuttles rushed by with heroes diving out of them and taking flight. Dozens of speedster heroes rushed in from all directions. One hero, who was three feet tall, came running and met a large troll-like hero who threw the small woman in the air. Her hands became giant stones that crashed down on the abdomen of Fenrir. They forced it to release Midgard as she thrust it into the ground.
Chase yelled, “HEROES, TAKE THAT THING DOWN, I DON’T CARE HOW YOU DO IT! SOMEONE, HELP MIDGARD!”
She ran toward the bleeding legendary hero, who was slowly shrinking down.
Midgard lay on the ground, holding his stomach as greenish red blood poured out. “Heh, betcha never thought you’d see me bleed.”
Chase said, “Listen, you are a true hero today. I never thought you’d be like this. So selfless.”
Midgard laughed, “Don’t tell anyone you said that, you’d ruin my reputation. Besides, I’m not here to save this world. I’m her to get revenge. Nova is my friend, and that bitch has him under her spell. I’ll crush her little shadow demons and then I’ll crush her.”
A hero in shining silver armor ran in and knelt next to Midgard. “Can I help?”
“You think you can heal a god?” Midgard asked.
“I can accelerate the healing process, but it will hurt like hell.”
“Just do it.” Midgard cringed.
The man put his hands on Midgard and closed his eyes. A bright light appeared in the wounds and they healed up. Midgard refrained from any outward sound of pain, but Chase could tell this healing was agony.
“Thanks.” Midgard got to his feet and looked up at the giant Fenrir as all the heroes battled it. “Time to tame this mutt.”
Chase said, “A worthy foe?”
Midgard scoffed, “Never. It just got lucky. Now to pound this puppy to a pulp.” Midgard cracked his knuckles and dashed toward the battle. With each step he grew bigger.
Fenrir’s tail hit Chase and sent her tumbling across the ground. Pushing herself up, the darkness in the sky loomed heavy and the spikes of red energy grew bright where actual shadow should be. This battle would soon turn the world in to a hellish landscape of nightmare.
“If this is what Lady Echidna calls a sample of her power, what is she?” Chase whispered.
“WATCH OUT!” Gar swooped by and scooped her. Seconds later, one of Fenrir’s feet hit the ground and would have crushed her.
“Thanks.” Chase said.
Gar landed and set her up on her feet. Before them, hundreds of heroes battled the legendary wolf. Gar had a clever smile on his face.
Chase asked, “What do you have to smile about? We can’t beat this thing.”
“Midgard has a good idea.” Gar said.
Chase groaned, “Yup, this is the end of the world. If Midgard is our strategist, we are all screwed.”
Before Gar could explain, the heroes zooming around the beast suddenly took up more distant positions. Midgard, the only one left fighting it, grabbed it around the neck and struggled as it thrashed against him. He made a massive twist of his body and lobbed the wolf directly into the air. All the heroes took the cue and sent waves of powers at it. Those that didn’t have energy powers grabbed boulders and threw them. This caused Fenrir to roar in pain and fury, but that was obviously the plan. Five BADGE shuttles swooped by, each launching a missile into the mouth of the beast.
“Those are sub-nuclear charges. They’ll level half the planet!” Chase cried out.
“Wait for it!” Gar said with glee in his voice.
Several dozen heroes cast a great bubble around the beast the instant the flash hit. The explosion from within atomized the shadow monster, and the bubble strained, but held the explosion at bay. Sunlight broke through the darkness and the shadows of the world faded away, revealing a healthy blue sky day.
The cloud of radioactive debris remained inside the bubble as the heroes casting it, and a few helping them, rose high through Earth’s atmosphere.
Lieutenant Bonnie ran over to Chase, but looked up with her comm unit active. “Keep that bubble in place until you’ve reached space. Then release the radiation. Solar winds will take care of the rest.”
A voice on the other end said, “We got this, don’t worry.”
Chase looked over at Bonnie. “That was Midgard’s plan?”
She laughed, “Not exactly. I decided we had to take it down, so we would shove sub-nuclear charges down its throat and blow it up from the inside. Then contain the explosion and aftermath so to release it in space. Midgard came up with the idea of how to accomplish this.”
“No one let me in on the plan.” Chase said.
Bonnie laughed, “We didn’t have a lot of time to conference this. Fenrir was pushing us closer and closer to populated areas. Once we crossed that line, innocent lives would be lost and the fight would be almost impossible to contain.”
“Understandable.”
“HELP, HE WON’T GET UP!” EB called out.
Chase rushed over to find the bunny next to a normal sized Midgard, laying on the ground. “What happened?”
EB patted Midgard’s human face, “he was all cheering and acting like the hero and stuff. I came over to tell him off and he passed out. Like, when does this brute ever run outta energy? Seriously.”
Chase said, “He doesn’t. This isn’t good.” She waved at some of the other heroes. “Get him in a shuttle. We need to get him to Dr. Henderson on the station.”
Justin and Chase stood outside the infirmary, waiting on Dr. Henderson. There was a quiet tension between them as they each pondered all the events.
“I’m worried, Justin. If that’s a shadow of her power, what are we in for?”
Justin nodded. “I’ve been thinking about that as well. She has merely been toying with us, and each time, it’s almost a complete catastrophe.”
“I know.” Chase lingered in thought for a moment.
Justin caught this and asked, “Is something wrong?”
“Yes. I saw something that has bothered me, and I can’t explain it.”
“What? Something about Fenrir?” Justin asked.
“No. It is about Nova.”
“Was it something you saw in his memories?”
Chase folded her arms and held them tightly against her. “In a way, yes. First, it bothers me he seemed to give us a clue. That doesn’t make sense. But, in those memories, he displayed to Midgard his true power, but I couldn’t see what it was. It put fear into Midgard and that was enough to startle me.”
“What else?” Justin asked.
“Back in the battle, before Lady Echidna showed up, there was a moment when EB was battling Nova and almost had him. Then Nova revealed that same power to us. He broke EB’s bindings and nearly blinded us with light.”
“What did you see?”
Chase spent a moment and finally said, “I thought I saw wings.”
“Wings?”
“I can’t explain it. I don’t understand it. But, yes, in the light around Nova, I saw wings.”
The doors of the infirmary opened and Dr. Henderson came out as she pulled off her mask. “I’ve stabilized him. Midgard is going to be fine.”
Justin asked, “What happened to him?”
“I wasn’t sure, at first. He seemed fine. But something was keeping him down. His energy was draining. I had to go in and explore a little and I found something. Once I pulled it out, his vital signs all got better and he’ll be on his feet in no time.”
“What did you find?” Chase asked.
“Come with me.”
They followed Dr. Henderson into the infirmary, past the operation room, and into the lab. She directed them to a box with a glowing blue object in it. It was the shape of a large teardrop and seemed to have liquid flowing inside.
“What is that, doctor?” Justin leaned over to look at it.
“I don’t know. It has an incredible power signature, the likes of which I’ve never seen. Stranger still, it was inside the wound where the sword penetrated Midgard’s body.”
Chase said, “But Paladin healed that over.”
“Yes, and Paladin made a mistake. This object was keeping the wound open. Paladin sealed the wound over it, which only caused this collapse.”
Justin said, “If this was inside that wound before it was healed, then it got inside before the major battle began.”
Chase finished the thought, “The only way this got in there is if Nova put it there when he struck Midgard.”
Justin nodded. “This could be another clue.”
Dr. Henderson asked, “If a Nordic runestone was a clue to a Nordic ruin, what would a teardrop full of water mean?”
“I don’t know, but we will need to figure this out before it’s too late.”
Musty old ruins sat in dusty and dirt with only flecks of light coming through cracks in the walls. Hieroglyphs were etched into the surfaces depicting monsters and demons alongside the script of an ancient language long since forgotten.
The sharp click of heels broke the quiet solace of this forbidden place. This was followed by heavier footsteps of soldiers. Artificial lights clicked on and flooded the room with greater illumination.
Lady Echidna and Nova walked through their little private army toward the back wall.
“Will it be enough, my lady?” Nova asked.
She smiled and stopped at a stone door. “All I need is one to gain access. I’ll need the other three to achieve my plans. However, returning here is a dream long since dreamt in the void.” She held the stone up and the ruby took on a brilliant light. The wall of stone responded with a minor point of light and then a portion of it slid down, revealing a staircase.
Lady Echidna basked in the stale air that wafted out and she held up her hand, snapped her fingers, and sconces along the walls burst alive with flames. She strode up the stairs in elegance and grandeur, followed closely by her loyal minions.
The next room was a grand, ancient throne room befitting the most powerful rulers of the ancient world. Carved from stone, marble, jewels, and crystal, this room had seats, tables, and a throne. The throne was made of gold, embedded with rubies, emeralds, jade, diamonds, and sapphires.
Lady Echidna stepped up and sank down into the seat as though it were the most comfortable place in the known universe. “Ah, to finally be home. How wonderful! Now, bow to me, my minions, glorify me.”
The soldiers were first to the ground, bowing as low as they could. Nova walked up, stood before her, and sank down to one knee, bowing with his face toward the ground.
“My lady, it is good to see you on that throne again.”
She laughed, “It is. Pity that they used your throne against you. Perhaps we will retrieve it when I’m done.”
“Whatever is your wish, my lady.” Nova answered.
She sat forward. “My wish, now, my darling husband, is for you to retrieve the next. Off to the Watery Grave. Awaken my precious sea monster and let no one stand in your way.”
“As you wish, my lady.”
With a loud thud, a massive fist sculpture landed on Woodward Avenue in the dead of night. Two thieves stood there, a little perplexed, as they assessed their quarry.
“So...what now?” One asked.
The other scratched his head. “I didn’t know it was so big. I mean, I wanted to get on the news for stealing this thing, but...wow, it was heavier than it looks.”
“Hey, I got an idea.” The first one announced.
Another voice above them said, “Actually, I have a better idea...no matter what idiocy was going to come out of your mouth.”
Starmaster hovered in the air over the two crooks, his arms folded and his expression less-than-amused.
“Aw crud, it’s a cape.” The first crook said.
The second pulled out a gun. “I ain’t go’n back to jail!” he shot, but the bullet merely bounced off.
Starmaster slowly lowered himself to the ground and said, “I see that you two aren’t much of a challenge, so I will not fight you. But...” he tilted his head, “I hear the police, on their way, responding to my call. Now you can try to fight, run, or turn yourself in. Whichever path you choose, you’ll end up in cuffs. Trust me.”
Exclaiming a few select expletives, both men knelt down and waited for the police. Starmaster picked up the massive tribute to Joe Louis and carried it to a safer place. He spent a moment examining the damage to the display itself.
The police arrived and had the two men in cuffs in a matter of moments. One officer came over to Starmaster.
“You think it’s damaged bad?”
“Nah, just some scratches on the arm. Will take a little welding to get it back into...”
Everyone jumped when they heard a loud thump, followed by another.
“What was that?” The officer looked around.
Starmaster looked up and down the thinly populated streets. “I don’t know. It’s the middle of the night. Detroit isn’t normally bustling too much at this hour in January.”
The officer clicked his walkie talkie just as a massive shadow creature walked around a building. Two red glowing eyes stared down at them.
“Oh, that isn’t right.” The officer said.
“Please repeat that.” The lady on the other end of his walkie asked.
Starmaster shoved him back. “Run, get away. That’s Krampus... I think.”
The officer didn’t need more encouragement and beat a hasty retreat, dragging along the crooks with him as he jumped into his car.
Starmaster rose in the air and stared down at the monster approaching him. “It can’t be Krampus. I watched him die out in the ocean.”
The monster, which had the body shape of Krampus, rushed toward him. There was hardly any definition to the figure, and an inky shadow misted all around him.
Before Starmaster could call for aid from BADGE, the monster set him upon. The fight was epic. Starmaster was not going down easily, but neither was this strange creature. The battle threatened to damage the city, so Starmaster drove the fight toward the water. The giant Krampus thing stepped back and then lunged for Starmaster. With a well placed psychic blast, Starmaster sent this thing stumbling backward, tripping it over the permanently docked riverboat. The monster plowed into the Detroit River.
While it lay on its back in the water, sinking down, Starmaster formed a psionic blade from the hilt he had made to enhance his powers. He made a massive arch in the sky and went for a heart stabbing motion at the creature’s chest.
Darkness followed a blinding smash as Starmaster was hit. He felt his body crash into the ground and was out for a moment. He awoke to the sounds and lights of emergency help. Local police and an ambulance were present, as well as a unit from BADGE.
“Starmaster? Are you with us?” Agent Justin asked.
Starmaster realized he was on a gurney being wheeled toward the ambulance. “I’m alive.”
“What happened?”
“It was Krampus...I...” A mask was placed over his face to provide extra oxygen.
“Please, don’t exert yourself too much. You need medical attention. Sir,” the EMT looked at Justin, “You will have to get his statement later.” With that, Starmaster was raced into the ambulance and taken to the nearest hospital.
***
EB hopped as quickly as he could through the BADGE spacestation. He dodged heroes and agents alike as he dashed for the operations center. He paused for a second, ogled a particularly cute girl in a revealing super suit, and then finished his mad rush to his job.
Blasting out of the elevator, EB zipped right over to Director Nova. “At your service, Mr. Director sir!” he stopped with a paw up to his forehead like a salute.
Nova handed a tablet over to Gar, who walked it back to a robot to be processed. The Director casually said, “Did you get through to him?”
“I did indeed. But, since Christmas was just a few weeks ago and this year he tried my idea of giving out actual gifts, which was a brilliant idea. I mean, seriously, the people of Earth are so happy to have all their Christmas gifts. And the heroes are looking better and BADGE finally is out of the dog-house with the United Nations. It’s like Christmas was great for us all. And... what was I talking about?”
“SANTA!” Nova bellowed and then pinched the bridge of his nose as he calmed down.
“Oh, right. Yeah, I got him. But, he wasn’t up for a communication right now. He said he can give you a report later.”
Nova looked up at the screen as reports and information flooded by. “We have a potential crisis on our hands and I need his input about this.”
EB looked at the screen, one eyebrow and ear cocked, “Uh, I know those are all really cool numbers and diagrams, but I don’t understand them. What’s the crisis that needs Santa’s attention?”
“You know that we have been getting reports of a strange shadow monster showing up and then disappearing?”
“Yeah. It’s real creepy. I thought it was the Spirit of Halloween, but... he’s not this mean.”
“No. And last night it injured one of our heroes.”
“THE BIG JERK! Who was hurt? I’ll go shove an egg up that shadows...”
“It was Starmaster. He’s going to be fine. But, he gave us some information we haven’t had yet.” Nova clicked a button and a small window activated with Agent Justin reporting in.
“This is Agent Justin. I am in Detroit, Michigan. Starmaster has encountered the shadow monster and has identified it as Krampus. He was the only eyewitness outside of one police officer and two criminals, all of which agreed with the description.” The video stopped.
EB frowned, “Krampus? But he died. We all watched him die.”
“I know. This is very confusing. The only person who knows the most about Krampus is Santa, and that’s why I need to talk to him.”
Chase walked into the room. “Don’t forget, Krampus was my uncle for more than three centuries.”
Nova turned to her. “I understand that. However, Santa was his brother and knew him for a lot longer. If there is anything that Krampus left behind that could do this, your father will know. That is, unless you know something that you haven’t told me?”
“No.” Chase admitted. “I’m in the dark as well. I don’t know what this is, but I just know it isn’t from Krampus. He was evil in the end, but he was not truly evil at heart. This thing is mindlessly wicked.”
Gar rushed over with the tablet in his hand. “Director, we are getting an active report of an attack by this thing in Buenos Aires. It is attacking NullForce. She is sending us active feed from her body cam.”
“On screen, now!”
Gar flicked his stone fingers over the tablet, and the video played on the screen.
A shaky, dizzying view of the metropolis filled the monitors. They could see hands and arms from the person wearing this cam as she sped toward a three story tall shadow monster.
“Nullforce! Don’t go in alone!”
“Sir, the communications aren’t active. She can’t hear you.” Gar said.
“Then activate them, I...”
They all cringed when they saw her hit hard by a giant claw and crash through windows of an office building, coming to a stop in a pile of chairs and a desk. On the screen, the camera was still feeding and they could see out the windows of this office. The giant shadow face of Krampus came close to the building and looked in. Then, it vanished like smoke being blown away on a strong breeze.
Chase pointed at one of the robots. “Contact authorities in Buenos Aires. Get aide to that location now.”
EB said, “what happened? Why did it stop?”
“I don’t know. But, I did learn something.”
Gar asked, “What?”
“It took her down and was able to attack the city, but stopped.”
EB now asked, “What does it mean?”
“That thing isn’t going after civilians, governments, or military targets. It’s after heroes and I want to know why.”
“I’LL TRY TO LEAD IT AWAY!” Furious Squirrel yelled into his comm from inside the pilot house of his battle dirigible.
Nova watched the scene over Neo Utopia as another manifestation of Krampus attacked. Local police and even some of Rutkowski’s men were battling it, but it had its menacing eyes on the dirigible. With a well-placed swing, forcing the balloon into the side of a building. Glass from the buildings’ windows rained down over the street below while the steampunk airship struggled to not go down.
“Furious!” Nova yelled.
“I....got...this!” Furious Squirrels voice came through in a struggle for survival.
The dirigible returned to the sky and then jets of steam came blasting out the back, forcing it to speed forward. The plan worked. Krampus went for the hero, leaving the non-meta humans behind, unharmed.
“He’s following me! I’ll head him out of the city.”
Nova pointed at a robot. “Do we have any other heroes nearby?”
“Negative. Furious Squirrel is only registered BADGE hero currently on the scene.”
“Same as every attack. One hero, and he or she is the focus.” Nova shook off his confusion and then said, “Furious, get the hell out of there. You can’t defeat him.”
The Dirigible zoomed over the landscape outside of Neo Utopia, flying over open land.
“I’m trying to shake him. He’s faster than my top speed. This thing is...”
Krampus lunged forward and nailed the tail of the Dirigible. It went spiraling out of control for a moment and then gained some control as it skidded across the ground.
“Furious...report!” Nova asked, breathlessly waiting for a sign of life.
Suddenly, Furious Squirrel came flying up out of his damaged ship on a rocket pack, two electro-pistols blasting the monster.
“DON’T FIGHT HIM!”
Furious couldn’t hear him, he fired wildly, but was hit by a fist and plowed into the ground. Krampus stopped for a second and then evaporated on the wind.
“GET A MED-TEAM TO THAT LOCATION NOW!” Nova yelled at a robot.
“Calling local medical, alerting BADGE health authorities.” A robot delineated its actions.
Chase and Gar exited the elevator at that moment. “Sir, we just heard there was a sighting...”
“Yeah, Neo-Utopia, it was Furious Squirrel this time.”
“Did he get hurt?” Chase asked, true worry on her face.
Nova said, “Too early to tell. He was hit hard. But, it was the same as before. He went down and then this monster Krampus simply evaporated.”
Gar asked, “Any idea where it will strike next?”
“No clue. I need to talk to Santa and see if he can help make sense of all this. Did you get to him?”
“Yup, he’ll be...”
Santa appeared next to Nova with EB sitting on his shoulder. “Ah, Director. I’m sorry for the delay. It was a tiring season. I understand you’re having an issue.”
EB hopped down and said, “I got to him and told him what I knew, which isn’t much. I mean, seriously, BADGE knows hardly anything. Just that Krampus is showing up, kicking a local hero’s butt and then, poof, gone. It’s soooo spooky. I still blame Spirit of Halloween. I bet he’s behind this. That jerk is always up to bad things. I know, I know, he’s never really hurt anyone, but who’s saying he didn’t decide nows the time to be meaner than usual? I...” He looked up at the eyes impatiently waiting for him to shut up. “Yeah, Director Nova, tell Santa what you know.”
Nova returned his attention to Santa Claus, “We have a giant shadowy monster attacking that takes on the appearance of Krampus. Every time, he shows up and demolishes a hero, and then vanishes away. There’s no way to predict where it will strike next.”
“I’m Santa, not a fortune teller. I doubt I can be of much help.”
Nova asked, “Do you think it might have something to do with your brother? Could this be something he left behind? Or is he really not dead?”
Chase jumped in, “Sir, my uncle died. I know it.”
Santa nodded. “My brother gave his life to save us all during the terrible event with Lady Phoenix. This cannot be him.”
Nova pointed at a robot. “Put up the images of the attacker.”
Instantly, the monitor before him filled with shadowy images of Krampus in the throes of battle with one hero or another.
Santa paled slightly at the sight of this. “That, whatever it is, certainly looks like my brother. However, it cannot be him. If he had left any of his magic to cause this, I would have sensed it. I wish I knew more.”
Nova let out a heavy sigh. “I had hoped you could help us connect the dots on this.”
“I will offer whatever help I can, but my knowledge is limited.”
Chase asked, “What do we do now?”
Nova looked at the images of this shadow monster. “We take precautions. Gar, get a tablet.”
Gar hurried over and picked up an official computer tablet. “Ready.”
“Take this down. To all Heroes, until further notice, it is strongly advised that no hero travel alone. At least two or more heroes travel together. If a sighting of the Shadow Krampus appears, send out the all-alert and be ready to respond to an all-alert. This thing does not seem to back down from a fight and there is absolutely no way to predict where it will strike next. We need to limit its ability to pick our heroes off one by one. Have any monitoring systems active that you have access to. I want data.” He waved his hand. “Send that message to all registered leagues.”
Gar tapped a button, and it sent the memo out.
Santa asked, “Are you sure that’ll be enough?”
“I have no idea. What I want to know is who is behind this.”
Chase asked, “Do you mean someone other than the Shadow Krampus?”
Nova said, “Yes. I have a strong feeling that we are only seeing what we are allowed to see. Someone is responsible for this act of violence, and I want to know who they are and what they want.”
“Who are you, and what do you want?” A BADGE agent demanded as a woman stood before the barred door of the prison.
A woman in an incredible black dress with long black gloves on her hands smiled at him. She had gorgeous hair draped down to her shoulders. Her lips were as black as her dress and her face was almost white. Her eyes were hauntingly dark and intoxicating behind smokey sunglasses.
Putting a hand up to the bar, she said, “I’m here for a few good men.”
“If you don’t step away at this moment, I’ll have to take you in for questioning.” He threatened her.
She smiled and put her hand through the energy field on the other side of the bars. This shocked him because it should burn her arm off right now. She brushed her hand down his chin and he relaxed with a goofy smile on his face.
“Too bad, you could have been a fun party guest.” Smoke poured out of eyes, ears, and mouth as he fell over dead. She leaned down and pulled his security badge from his uniform and deactivated the door.
Walking into the facility, she strode with the elegance of a queen and the air of the devil himself. Stopping at the banister of a walkway that looked out across the many cells holding the captured members of the World Corps soldiers, she held her arms out.
“Worship me.”
The cells opened and the men in prison jumpsuits stepped out, looking up at her with zealous awe.
“Hey! Who are you?” A guard ran toward her, his gun ready.
She casually turned and gave a simple flick of her finger toward him. “Kill him.”
The prisoners ran to her call and fought the man. He shot several of them, but this did not deter their attack. With a scream that echoed all the way down, they threw him over the banister and he hit the concrete floor far below with a sickening crack.
Having just committed murder, the now escaped prisoners fought to be near her.
She smiled at their devotion. “Come, my pets, the party is about to start.”
Crowds of tourists and locals alike milled about on this fine sunny afternoon. The Left Bank was at its prime again after two years of reconstruction from the last incident in Paris. The sight of all those heroes battling Cupid was a fading memory to those who experienced it.
This was the least of concerns on the mind of Maurice, the head server of the oldest and most luxurious sidewalk bistro on the Seine. He hurried off a couple from Texas that were loud and annoying and breathed a sigh of relief when he set eyes on a high fashion woman of elegance.
“Welcome.” He said in French.
The lady in black approached with all the glamour in the world. Her stride was graceful, her appearance impeccable. “Ah, a table, my good man. One with a view of the Eiffel Tower.”
“Oh, but madame, the only tables with a good view are occupied. Perhaps one with a lovely view of the river.” He offered her a table.
She reached up and brushed her gloved hand down his chin. He gained an amorous smile. With a little pout, she said, “But I wish to watch the tower this afternoon.”
“Oui, Madame, it will be but a moment.” He rushed over and rudely demanded a gentleman to give up his table and leave. This was met with loud yelling from the rich customer, but Maurice was immovable in his passion. Once the table was free, he quickly ushered her over to it. “Will this do?”
She sank down in the chair like a cat slithering onto a perch before pouncing. “It will do just fine. Now, bring your finest wine.”
“At once, my lady.” He bowed and ran.
Another man approached from outside the cafe, wearing a fine black suit and with a little mask over his eyes, like he was going to a fine masquerade ball. “It is done, my lady.”
“Good. I shall enjoy this. Go, tell the others to move on. I will meet you in Ka’an Dorado. The party will begin there soon.”
“Yes, my lady.” He bowed and rushed away as if her order was of the utmost urgency.
She pulled out a pair of gilded opera glasses and looked through them. A figure of a woman stood on
the edge of the tower many stories above the ground. She had glorious butterfly wings and a purple outfit to match the extravagant colors. The dark lady cooed, “Now, my pet, let’s see how this little hero deal with you.”
Screams and a mad dash erupted throughout the heart of Paris as a monstrous shadow beast arose out of nowhere. With heavy growling, Krampus loped across the city, scattering people and objects in his path.
To the dark lady’s delight, the butterfly winged woman jumped into action and confronted this foe.
Director Nova walked with Justin and Arx as they gave him an update about the Atlas project.
Arx pointed at a tablet in his hands. “We have a complete registration from all the Leagues. Everyone wants to get the Atlas alerts.”
“Good. I like to hear the cooperation.” Nova said.
Agent Justin added, “This is the best PR BADGE has had since before the World Corps situation. The United Nations loves this, the people are praising it, heroes are all getting great poll numbers.”
Nova said, “I never wanted this work to be about popularity. But I understand the need for public approval. Good work, I...”
Gar’s voice came over the comm. “Director, it’s Krampus again. This time, he’s attacking Paris.”
Director Nova swore under his breath and clicked his comm. “I’m on my way to Operations. Get in touch with all the Leagues in the area.”
“Already trying.” Gar said.
Nova left the pair and rushed back toward the operations center. After a brief ride up the elevator, he raced out to the floor of the command.
“Report!” He came to a quick stop when he saw the monitors filled with images from Paris of the attack as it was happening live.
Gar said, “We have lots of images and readings from the local security systems.”
Nova frowned. “Who’s he attacking? I don’t recognize that hero?”
On the screen, the same butterfly hero fluttered around Krampus, keeping away from him and responding with blasts of pink energy from her mouth.
“We don’t know, sir. She appears to be an unregistered meta-human.” Gar said.
Nova asked, “Where is BADGE support? What Leagues responded?”
Gar said, “None. We couldn’t get through.”
“What! Give me that!” He grabbed the tablet out of Gar’s hands and typed furiously onto the screen. Nasty buzzing sounds was all he got in return for his attempts to contact someone. “What’s wrong?”
A robot answered, “Comm lines to Paris are down. Comm lines to surrounding areas are down. Fight Club comms are down. System in completely lock-down.”
Nova slowly looked up with a realization in his eye. “This was planned. Robot, use the bypass protocols to send a signal directly to that heroes comm unit. It should get through...”
“Negative. Hero is not registered. Hero must be registered to...”
“I know. Damn.” Nova looked up at the screen as this butterfly winged girl was now trying to run from the battle. “This is why I want heroes to register with us. We can help, we can do something to make sure they have all the support they need. She shouldn’t be alone. I...”
Both he and Gar gasped when they watched Krampus grab her, rip her wings off, and then slam her to the ground. The scene on the pavement was gruesome.
“Oh, my god.” Nova whispered.
Gar said, “I will try to get through to medical teams.”
“There’s nothing left to save. This... this just changed everything. This creature is willing to kill.”
While citizens were still in an uproar, the dark lady sipped her wine with one hand and continued to watch through her opera glasses.
“Wonderful. They’re just as weak as I knew they would be. You can go now, my little baby.” She said, and Krampus faded on the breeze.
Maurice approached her, also in a state of calm. “Will there be anything else, my lady?”
She set her empty wineglass down. “No. Sadly, I have work to take care of.” She stood up.
“Take me with you.” He begged.
“Now, now. Mustn’t be so vulgar. I need warriors right now. But, when I am finished, I will return for you so that you may serve me.”
“Oh, thank you, thank you.” He was kissing her hand between each word.
She strode away, a fabulous air of serenity while Paris recoiled from yet another attack on their fine soil.
Across the world, from every comm unit that BADGE still had control over, Nova’s voice came out. “This is Director Nova. The situation with the Shadow Krampus has turned much darker. Do not engage until further notice. If he attacks you, your first priority is the safety of the surrounding people, your second will be retreat. At this time, we are in retreat until there is enough information to deal with this. Nova out.”
Nova quietly watched the monitors as the screen displayed every angle of the current recovery situation in Paris.
“Communication from: Chaz Hamilton.” A robot announced.
“On screen.”
One of the smaller windows changed to the image of Chaz standing in the middle of a busy room. “I have some good news. Well, as good as it can be in light of the situation.”
“What is it?”
“I was just sitting in at an emergency meeting at the United Nations. They’re worried about the situation with the giant shadow monster attacking and are putting all nations on top alert for sightings. However, they also share the condolences with the family of the murdered hero and say that they have declared that her efforts to stop the monster are a sign of how deeply devoted superheroes are to the safety of civilians. This incident has only raised the approval of BADGE and the heroes among the nations.”
Nova was as stoic as ever. “I understand this is good news. I just wish the cost wasn’t so high. Thank you for the report.”
“Any time.” Chaz shut off the signal.
Strange Quark and Chase appeared right next to Nova. Chase held her head. “That was a long trip, Paris to the station in one zap.”
“It was fun.” Quark said.
“Report?” Nova stated.
Chase stood up straight after the dizzying experience. “We investigated every inch of the incident and the surrounding area. Nothing. No trace of evidence that helps us.”
Quark said, “I checked it for all forms of energy and even multidimensional energies... nothing. The only thing I found out of the ordinary was a strange shadowy energy that felt similar to the shadow villain we fought months ago. But, it was so latent, it could just be residual from that battle.”
“It’s something to go on. See what you find.”
“On it.” Quark vanished away.
Chase asked, “What about Lady Papillion? Have we found her family or anyone connected to her?”
Nova gave a solemn, brief nod. “Yes. BADGE representatives met with her family several hours ago. I sent the standard condolence package, even though she was part of BADGE or an associated league.”
“Any more attacks by the Shadow Krampus?”
Nova shook his head. “Nothing. But, I expect one any time. I just hope no hero decides to try to be the one to defeat him. I don’t need another death on our hands. This thing is...so powerful.”
“No more than Jinn or Lady Phoenix.” Chase said.
Nova said, “No, but in those cases, we were able to gather forces and tackle them head on. This is appearing out of nowhere, striking at a local hero and then simply vanishing.”
A robot announced, “Incoming Message: Security Inspection Team Beta.”
Nova frowned. He had canceled all routine field reports until further notice. “Put it on screen.” He turned and muttered, “This had better be good. I don’t have time to waste.”
Another window opened, and a man stood outside the prison facility where they had been containing all the captured World Corps goons. Two BADGE security guards were being treated by EMTs. “Director, we have a situation.”
“What now?”
“I came to do my regular inspection of this facility and I found only two people here, no prisoners, no other guards. These two people were in a haze, hypnotized or something. They were standing guard and nearly dead from exhaustion and lack of food or water.”
“What happened? Who attacked them? Where are the prisoners?”
The Agent became visibly nervous. “Uh, I...don’t know. Both are still in a state of shock and hardly coherent. One keeps talking about a beautiful woman he dreamed he was dancing with. But that’s all he’ll say.”
Nova cursed under his breath and grabbed a tablet from a table. “I’m sending in an investigation team. You stay there. I want answers!”
“Understood. Agent Max out.”
Chase asked, “Do you think this is connected to the Shadow Krampus attacks?”
“I don’t know. But it is a strange coincidence that we have a bewildering prison break right in the middle of an equally bewildering monster attack. I don’t like this.” He handed her the tablet. “I want you to lead this investigation. Use your powers, see into the past, and tell me what happened.”
She took the tablet and saw a list of agent names and a few robot assignments for this mission. “I will do my best. I have to figure more out here than I did in Paris.”
Nova was silently staring at the screen, a little lost.
Chase paused before heading off for her duties. “Sir, is something the matter?”
He shook his head. “It’s nothing. Just... a touch of déjà vu.”
The heat shimmered off the grassy ground, the green lush plants adding some mist to the air. A small,
dusty road filled with a small cloud as a little car rattled down it. The old man inside the car came to an abrupt stop when he saw a woman standing on the side of the road.
Rolling down the window, he looked up at the incredibly gorgeous woman in a sleek black dress with expensive sunglasses on.
“What are you doing all alone out here?” He asked.
She smiled at him and leaned over seductively. “I go where I want, when I want.”
“Okay. Can I give you a ride?”
She reached over and brushed down the side of his face. “How sweet. But I don’t grace the inside of a vehicle unless it enhances my entrance. But, do tell, how far to the capital?”
“Ka’an Dorado is not far. Just down this road, beyond the jungle.”
“Then I am exactly where I need to be. Why don’t you go on and let them know I am coming?”
With a sparkle in his eye and a bewildered smile on his face, he said, “Anything, my lady.” And quickly drove on.
She mused as he sped down the road. Very soon, men in dark suits appeared out of the jungle, each carrying large Anti-Morphon guns. One approached her. “Should we go kill him?”
“Oh, don’t be so bloodthirsty, my pet. Killing him will not do much good. Letting him spread a little confusion is far greater a power. Now, are we ready?”
The man reached into his coat and pulled out a small controller. He clicked it once and a fabulous limousine appeared from under a high-tech cloak. “We raided the armory this morning. BADGE agents weren’t ready for us. The cloak was easy to grab, and we got this bullet proof limo from their impound. Once belonged to the gangster Rutkowski.”
“Lovely. The perfect entrance. Shall we...” she paused and looked back.
“Did you hear something, my lady?” He was ready to strike.
A wicked smile played on her lips. “No. My lovely monster is about to attack yet again.”
“Do you wish to observe?”
She patted the side of his face. “No need to run and steal me a helicopter. I’m sure this will be the same as the last. The last hero wasn’t part of BADGE. Next, one of their most famous heroes will go down and that will give me information and provide enough fear to really rattle that old cyclops.”
“Understood.”
She chortled at him. “Of course you don’t understand. But, I don’t need your brains, just some brawn and something handsome to look at. Speaking of which. Before we crash the party, I want my attendees to be properly dressed.” She snapped her fingers and all their outfits changed slightly. The black suits changed into tuxedos, black flowers appeared on the breast pockets, and masquerade masks appeared on their faces. They were grotesque birds and beasts, all in black. “Now, my pretty little man, the fun can begin.”
The beautiful palace of Ka’an Dorado sat in the middle of a bustling city. Colorful decorations and elaborate stalls of fruits lined the streets as the people happily went about their daily lives. The palace was ornate and designed with a lot of influence from ancient Mayan architecture.
Inside, the courtroom was loud as usual. Delegates that formed the Ka’an Dorado parliament were in a discussion about trade agreements and security issues. More than one was concerned about the potential of that shadow monster attacking their small country.
There was only one seat in the room, a throne that was as elegant as it was historical. It was an actual seat from one of the ancient Mayan ruins nearby. Decorated with gold and jewels, one man sat upon it in traditional garb denoting his place as prime minister. Everyone else stood around the columned room in suits and ties.
With a crack of sound from a stone hitting the arm of the throne, the Prime Minister called order to the room. The old man with wizened features spoke. “We have too many matters being talked about at once. First, Minister Bruno, please talk about security for Ka’an Dorado.”
A younger man in a blue suit stepped up and addressed the room. “We do not have any local meta-humans to protect our city. However, in a conference call with BADGE, I learned that, so far, this shadow monster has only attacked heroes. So, we might be safe. However, I have doubled all guards and asked that all shelters be stocked and prepared in case of an emergency.”
“Thank you, minister. Any questions?” The Prime Minister asked.
A luscious voice spoke from the far end of the room. “I have a question. Where’s the music?”
Everyone looked at each other and then turned their attention to the person standing in the back of the room.
The woman in black held a mask up to her face and smiled. “Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I’m fashionably late to this party, but it seems to have gotten off to a rotten start. Where’s the music?”
The Prime Minister said, “I don’t know who you are, but this is a closed session. If you want to address the court...”
“Court! How dull. What this room needs is glamour, fashion, style. And, thankfully, I’m here.” She opened her gloved arms and out of nowhere, the chords of Dance Macbre started playing while dozens of men and women, in elaborate black fashion, appeared.
Minister Bruno barked, “What is the meaning of this?”
The lady walked into the room in her usual strut while her little army spread out. She glanced around and the people began to look dazed, happy, even dancing a little to the music. “The meaning, my little man, is that I want a country to rule from, and this place is just right.”
He tapped his smartwatch. “Security to throne room...” He gagged when she grabbed his throat. “Now, now. Inviting guests to my party without my permission is a serious faux pa.”
He grabbed her arm and tried to twist it. Just then, one of her loyal minions hit him in the face and sent him to the floor.
She casually said, “Looks like you don’t want to play. Pity.” With a flick of her hand, a knife stuck into his throat and he bled to death.
Half the court was now dancing dreamily with each other or with the members of her minions. The rest were scared and trying to find a way out.
The Prime Minister stood from his throne. “Whoever you are, leave at once!” His eyes were not looking at her.
“Worship me!” She declared to the room and people fell under her spell. Either they joined in the festivities or simply turned silent. When she turned to the Prime Minister, he was unaffected by this, still resolved to remove her. “I see you are not like the others.” She mused.
“What are you doing? What’s happening?” He demanded.
“Oh, dear me.” She walked up to him. “It seems you’re strong willed and you have the minor advantage of blindness.”
“Yes. I’m blind. What of it?”
Danse Macabre came to a climax as she shoved a blade in his cut and felt him lean against her. She whispered in his ear. “My only true love once gouged his eye out just to break my spell. I have learned to deal with this minor inconvenience.”
Throwing his limp, old body to the ground, she sat upon his throne and then laughed at the dancing people. “Those who love me kill those who are simply entranced.”
Her World Corps minions handed out blades to the former leaders of this little nation. The court members who were joyfully dancing turned on their companions that were simply dazed. Scream after scream came as anyone who wasn’t dancing at this party became a corpse on the ground.
“Director! We’re picking up a distress call from Ka’an Dorado.” Agent Justin rushed over to him.
Nova took the tablet from Justin’s hand and then sneered, “Another coup in a small country. Happens all the time. We don’t intervene in such matters.”
“The last report I got was that everyone in their court was murdered.”
Nova huffed, “Petty tyrants are always blood thirsty. They’ve taken advantage of the unrest from the current situation to grab power. Defer the matter to the United Nations. This is more in their purview.”
“Understood. I’ll send this right away.”
Nova returned to his observation of the monitor while muttering about everyone using the BADGE emergency signal for everything.
Arx and Gar left one of the meeting rooms and walked down the steps to the floor where Nova paced. Chase said, “We have been in contact with all the Leagues and there has been no sign of the Shadow Krampus.”
Gar added, “The League in Paris is sticking together and asking permission to speak on behalf of BADGE for the local media.”
“Tell them they can speak with the media, but to be clear that BADGE is doing everything in our power to find and stop this threat.” Nova said.
“I’ll let them know.” Gar walked back up.
Sirens screamed, and lights blinked. One Robot stated, “Alert Class 1: Sighting of primary target in zone seventy five, sector eight.”
Nova said, “New Amsterdam? Put in on screen.”
The monitors all changed to show various footage from around the city of New Amsterdam. Some were local security cameras, some were news images, and a few were from BADGE official security monitoring stations. All angles showed one thing: a giant Shadow Krampus stomping down the street.
Arx asked, “Is it just me, or does this one look even bigger than the last?”
“I believe it is because of its target.” Nova said.
“Who?”
Nova pointed at the lower right monitor, which showed a scaly green human standing alone in an evacuated street. “The Local League is out on a mission surveying the area for rogue World Corps agents. The only hero left to keep an eye on New Amsterdam is Midgard.”
Arx groaned, “Oh, crap. There goes New Amsterdam.”
“Not if I can help it.” Nova grabbed a comm and clicked it. He punched in a special communication code and then yelled in it, “Don’t fight this, Midgard! That thing is not normal.”
“I DON’T TAKE ORDERS FROM YOU, I OBEY WHEN I FEEL LIKE IT!”
Nova yelled back, with the same rude attitude since that was just about the only thing Midgard respected. “YOU CAN’T WIN THIS! THE POWER LEVELS ARE OFF THE CHARTS!”
“SO ARE MINE...ESPECIALLY NOW!”
They watched the video feed as the massive Shadow Krampus turned a corner and glared down at the human sized Midgard. The scaly hero pulled out several vials of glowing liquids and downed them with a quick swig. His body instantly radiated a strange glow. He grew to an enormous size, bellowing laughter as he did.
“Are those enhancers?” Arx asked.
“Yeah, I didn’t think Midgard would ever use them. We designed those for the lower-powered heroes. They just boosted his power levels. The size growth is his own special abilities.” Nova clicked the comm back on. “MIDGARD! IF YOU INTEND ON THIS BATTLE, DO WHAT YOU CAN TO GET OUT OF THE CITY!”
Arx, Gar, and Nova all watched as Midgard met the Shadow Krampus with equal size and murderous intent in their eyes.
“The scene here is absolutely indescribable. Two monsters the size of fifty story buildings are fighting each other in the streets of New Amsterdam.” A News Reporter bellowed from inside the belly of a helicopter while it deftly zoomed around the scene of action. “Amazingly, the monster known to the world as Midgardsomr has managed to keep the fight from doing considerable property damage. One might think that he is actually trying to protect the city, which is amazing considering his known history. But...oooh, and that was a low blow by the shadow monster...and Midgardsomr swings...and he nails the shadow monster in the head. It’s going down, but...no, it just turned to a puff of smoke and reformed standing again.”
Nova cut his hand across his neck and that signaled for the news to be muted. “Did they hire a sportscaster for this?” He muttered.
Arx stood there in awe of the battle. “Well, it worked.”
A small screen opened with The Wizard and Macaia’s Daughter. “Sir, we are on our way.”
“Do not join this battle. That Krampus is still too strong, it’s going toe to toe with an enhanced Midgard.”
The Wizard chuckled, “Don’t tell me the big snake took Viagra.”
Macaia’s Daughter laughed, “Don’t ever say that in front of him, or your pet dragon will be his next meal.”
“What are you doing?” Nova interrupted their joking.
“We are going to help protect the city and keep an eye on this.”
“Good. Just don’t get yourselves killed.” Nova commanded.
Macaia’s Daughter landed on a rooftop two blocks from the monster battle. Both Krampus and Midgard were head and shoulders above their surrounding buildings, throwing punches and breathing flames.
“Midard is really pulling out all the stops. I’ve never seen him show any respect for property when he is in the middle of a good fight.” The Wizard said.
“He’s doing okay. But, it won’t last long. Look, they’re heading for the Brownstone district near the bridge.” Macaia’s Daughter pointed out. “Ah, rats. There’s a wreck and three buses are stopped.
The Wizard jumped up, “I got em, just make sure those apartments aren’t leveled.”
The two heroes parted at top speed.
Macaia’s Daughter zoomed so close to the battle that she had to duck a backswing and then dodged a flailing tail. Midgard had Krampus by his shadowy neck and was just about to plow him into an old brownstone apartment building.
“Not today!” Macaia’s Daughter hit the building with his hands and a shimmering shield of psycho-kinetic energy spread out. Krampus bounced off the barrier, leaving the building intact.
Krampus dislodged the hands around his neck and then kicked Midgard in the gut, throwing him toward a large public parking garage filled with cars.
“WOAH!” Macaia’s Daughter focused all her powers and caught Midgard mid-fall and forced him back up. Midgard used the newfound rebound and slammed Krampus in the face.
Krampus twisted around and just about plowed into three buildings. Macaia’s Daughter thrust both hands up and a wave of energy hit Krampus and threw him over, landing him in the street, which only crushed half a dozen cars.
Spending a moment catching her breath, Macaia’s Daughter said, “This is insane. It’s like refereeing a Godzilla boxing match.”
Just then she saw Midgard go to pummel Krampus with a double fist pound while the shadow enemy was down. Macaia’s Daughter dropped and put her hands on the pavement, sending out her strongest psycho-kinetic barrier. The slam hit, Krampus wheezed under the pressure and Macaia’s Daughter nearly blacked out, keeping the road system from being wrecked beyond repair.
Macaia’s Daughter groaned as she looked at her aching hands. “This is crazy.”
Krampus exploded into a cloud of dark mist and reformed, standing upright. He swung to punch Midgard. Macaia’s Daughter prepared herself for the next object she would protect. However, Midgard strategically dodged the first swing, then the second, and then caught the arm of the third. He twisted his body around. Macaia’s Daughter created a barrier to protect the building across the street. Midgard’s considerable tail crashed into her barrier and didn’t smash the buildings. While she did this, Midgard swung Krampus around like a giant shot-put and released him with an enormous roar. Krampus sailed over New Amsterdam Bay and just before he crashed into the water, a blast of energy from Midgard’s mouth obliterated the villain in a violent explosion of the black smoke. This time, it didn’t congeal, but fell apart, evaporating on the wind as a slight echo of a scream rolled across the city.
Macaia’s Daughter sat there, stunned. “He...he did it.”
The Dark Lady sat on her throne as her minions danced in glee in their finest fashion. She was celebrating her conquest of this land with an elegant party and all the champagne they could find. This party was no mere rave or simple booze bash. It was a high fashion event where everyone dressed in their finest apparel and each had the essence of importance written on their face. Though each looked upon the Dark Lady as a goddess worthy of adoration.
“My lady, the military is coming to attack.” Her most loyal from the former World Corps Goons knelt down to one knee next to her.
She brushed her hand over his face. “Now that won’t do. It would spoil all this fun. I shall deal with it.”
“Do you want protection?” He asked.
She laughed, “not for this. These are just normal people, the mundane. I can deal with them. Go on, enjoy yourselves. Remember, this party is celebrating moi.” Standing, she patted his cheek and then strut out of the throne room while the party continued.
Stepping out of the capitol building of this little country, she found the street lined with men dressed in green and yellow uniforms, each carrying a firearm. Two men, decorated with many medals, walked up the steps to her.
“We demand you surrender, woman.” The one with the most decoration ordered.
She smiled, “Woman...how crass...how mundane. Now, I’m having the most luxurious party inside, but I’m afraid there’s a dress code. That drab, horribly clashing outfit ensemble everyone is wearing simply won’t do.”
This drew confusion from everyone. The commander again ordered her to leave and submit to their justice.
She laughed in his face and lowered her dark glasses to gaze at them. “I have no intention of stepping down. In fact, this little country is a mere stepping stone. Soon, it will be the sight of a terrible battle. But, for now, I need obedience. I must have your complete capitulation. Worship me.”
As she said these words, the commanders lost their zeal, and the soldiers lowered their weapons. Some tried to approach and even fought one another for the luxury of getting to her. The others simply went into a trance-like state.
“Ah, good. So many new worshipers. How lovely. If you adore me, kill those who aren’t moving.”
The commander who had been talking to her slowly pulled out his pistol and shot his companion, who was in a trance. Behind them, half of the soldiers were gunning down the other half.
She strode back toward her glamorous party, only to stop and look up in shock. “So...my pet has been defeated. What a...” a vicious smile crept over her face, “wonderful turn of events. This is going to be so much fun. Come on, gentlemen, the party awaits.”
A man stepped up to a podium at the head of the United Nations conference. Cameras flickered before him as he addressed both the gathered representatives and the viewers across the world. Behind him, a screen came alive with footage from the Shadow Krampus attack in New Amsterdam.
“Ladies and Gentlemen of the world, we witnessed a terrible battle over one of the most populated cities on the planet. As in the past, heroes stepped up to contend against this villain and protect our lives. However, the United Nations would like to acknowledge and commend BADGE for their efforts. Three of their heroes were involved in this battle. One, a hero who has had a dubious history, went toe to toe with this monster and bravely fought. We thank the hero Midgardsormr for his act of courage.” There was lengthy applause as people watched clips from the fight shot from afar by news.
“Next, another hero, who we are told is called Macaia’s Daughter, no word on her name, just her relationship apparently. She came precariously close to the combat and used her own powers to protect private and public property. Saving not only billions of dollars in damages but also the homes and businesses of innocent victims. People can go back to work and home today without having to dig their lives from the rubble.” A single shot of Macaia’s Daughter protecting a building with her mental powers flashed on the screen and drew even more applause.
“Finally, another hero known as The Wizard came to the aid of civilians trying to escape the city. Due to the panic, a truck overturned and two buses were nearly sent over the side of the Bay Bridge. Dozens of lives were at stake and he saved them all.” The final footage was of The Wizard standing on top of a bus he had teleported to a safe location. During the applause, the head of the United Nations said, “This battle cost zero lives and minimal property damage. The villain was, presumably, destroyed, and BADGE has been vindicated. It is at this time the United Nations completely absolves BADGE of any scrutiny from former events and extends our hand to them to once again work together for a better future.”
Nova signaled for the video to go to mute while the roar of applause was deafening.
“Why didn’t you go? I know they invited you to this.” Gar asked.
Nova said, “I have always enjoyed working behind the scenes and in the shadows. I don’t need public accolade. I sent Arx and Agent Justin to accept this honor, as they also have a meeting with the United Nations about the new Atlas initiative.”
Gar said, “It’s a good thing the world still doesn’t know that Arx is alive, and he works for us now. They don’t realize the man they are showing representing BADGE is the same villain they wanted dead.”
“I’m just glad that BADGE had regained a positive status around the world.” Nova said.
Gar frowned at Nova, “Why do you still look worried?”
“This isn’t over.”
“That Shadow Krampus is dead.”
“He isn’t dead, he’s gone. First, we’ve watched him vanish on every occasion, so I don’t know if this was for good or just for now. Second, where did it come from? Something like that doesn’t just appear. The real Krampus is dead, I’m certain of that. Who or what would take a form of him and then terrorize heroes all over the world?”
“What do we do now?” Gar asked.
“The same. Heroes aren’t to be out alone and we must keep our eyes open for another attack. I just hope Chase finds something out at the prison. There has to be a connection there and I want to know what it is.”
Chase walked around the outside of the prison, looking over the barbed wire fences and the security gates. BADGE trucks and stations were all over the place. There was no civilization for miles in all directions, and this was a no-fly zone. The deafening silence was cut only by the whisper of winds through the dried, tall grasses.
“You see anything?” An older man in a suit walked up. He had a BADGE insignia stitched onto his breast pocket.
Chase said, “Investigator Barnaby, if someone got through the gates and walls around this place, they did so without disturbing anything. I don’t even see any grasses or dirt that is out of place. We’ve tested every door and gate using my power. I can’t see anything. No one has opened them outside of the normal weekly deliveries.”
They walked into a larger tent with two medical beds. Dr. Henderson inspected one of the two guards found at the entrance.
“Doctor, when did you arrive?” Chase asked.
The doctor looked up, a weird device over her eyes that gave her the appearance of a surprised bug. “Oh, Agent Chase. Glad to see you. Just arrived moments ago. They needed a second opinion on this matter. Oh, who is this?” She noticed the handsome gentleman behind Chase.
Chase stepped aside. “This is Agent Barnaby. He works with BADGE.”
Barnaby took her hand with a warm smile. “I work with the London Office, mostly.”
“Barnaby, that’s right. You’re one of the foremost detectives in the world. Nova has spoken highly of you before.”
“He called me in on this case. A jailbreak with absolutely no evidence of a jailbreak. Now, there’s a mystery for you.”
“What have you figured out so far?” Dr. Henderson asked.
The older man shook his head. “Nothing. We specially set aside this place to house only the members of the former World Corps. They were highly trained and considerably dangerous. So, BADGE put them in a prison designed to keep them. When the inspectors got here, there wasn’t anyone left alive who remembers anything, except these two.”
Dr. Henderson said, “I doubt they’ll be of much help. Their minds are mashed potatoes. I’ve never seen such a case of a mental mess. They don’t even know how to feed themselves any longer. I have no idea when...or if, we’ll ever get anything out of them.”
“Do what you can.” Chase said.
Barnaby walked with Chase out of the tent and toward the building. “Okay, so if I recall correctly, your particular power is around seeing the past through touching objects.”
“Yes.”
“Then we need an object for you to touch.”
Chase said, “I have tried everything I can think of. The gate handles, the doors, even the weapons on the guards themselves. I’m limited in what I see. It has to be near the object.”
“Then, we need something that was touched by the person who exacted this break-out.” Barnaby said as he opened the gate to the building.
“What if it was an inside job? What if it was just the prisoners breaking themselves out?”
“If that were the case, then this would be a much messier. Also, our two friends inside would not be so keenly baffled.” Barnaby opened the door to the building itself and allowed her to enter. “So, logically, this was someone else who arrived and executed this escape with precision.”
“Okay, but if they were so precise, then they certainly wouldn’t be foolish enough to leave something behind.” Chase said.
Barnaby walked forward, giving careful consideration to his steps. He stopped just before the banister. “Now, If I were someone who wanted to get everyone’s attention, as I assume our criminal would. And, I would need to do so quickly. I would stand here and call out like this. HELLO!” He said this and the open center of the box-like building echoed.
Chase was impressed. “So, if you’re correct?”
He put his hands on the banister. “I would at least hold this for a moment, to keep better balance while yelling.”
“Brilliant.” Chase said. “Move, let me.” She took his place and put her hands on the banister. Closing her eyes, she focused her powers. She saw herself step up, then walking in. She saw the lights go out for a long time. Then activity bustled around this place as the prisoners quickly exited their cells, or from her reversed perspective, returned to their cells. Then she saw a brief glimpse of a woman in black, then two bright red eyes appeared and a shadow surrounded her. A terrible voice yelled in her head.
“GET OUT OF MY PAST!”
The sound of this was so powerful that it filled Chase’s mind and she couldn’t hold the banister any longer. Falling to the ground, she held her head and cried out in pain. Barnaby rushed to her, but he couldn’t break this.
Suddenly, an icy feeling of something entered her neck, and she relaxed. Dr. Henderson knelt next to her, having just administered a hypo-spray. “Chase...Chase! Are you okay?”
Chase looked up and whispered, “It was just like Jinn.” and then she blacked out.
“For the last time, a kiss will not wake her. This isn’t a fairy tale!” Nova bellowed.
EB pouted while he folded his cute little arms. “You’re talking to the freaking Easter Bunny and you say this isn’t a fairy tale. Chase is out cold and we can’t wake her. What’s the harm in trying?”
Nova stood outside the infirmary on the station with the angry bunny. He let his irritation subside and calmly said, “Think about it. If it doesn’t work and she wakes and is told you were kissing her while she was unconscious, imagine what she’ll do to you.”
EB gained a horrified look on his face. “Good point.”
Investigator Barnaby approached and gave a little head nod to Nova. “Director. I just arrived. The team is still at the prison, going over everything for the tenth time. I doubt we’ll find anything new, but I’ll not rest until we find something of value.”
“I commend your devotion. Now, tell me one more time what Chase said when she came around before she blacked out.”
“It’s like I reported earlier. She said it was just like Jinn and then went cold.”
“How did it happen?” Nova asked.
“I can’t say. All I know is she grabbed the banister, closed her eyes and went silent for a moment. Then she suddenly reared back, held her head and started screaming in pain. She was inconsolable. I yelled for the doctor and when we calmed her down, she said something about Jinn and then was gone.”
EB hopped up and down so far he was eye level with this man. “HOW DARE YOU PUT CHASE IN DANGER! I OUGHT TO POKE YOU RIGHT IN THE...” Nova snatched him mid-hop and dangled him by his ears.
“Cool it. Chase was just using her powers like normal. There was no way we could have predicted this would happen.” He dropped EB and then asked, “Do you think that this could be connected to Jinn?”
EB shook his head. “I doubt it. Jinn’s dead. Like, smoked beyond return. It takes a lot to kill a Vexillian, and he went down hard. You were there, you saw it.”
Nova asked, “Could this be some residual effect of Jinn’s magic?”
EB frowned. “Maybe something left behind, but still doubtful. When we die, all our left-over spells and stuff usually vanish. I mean, during the war with Legion on our world, loads of my people went down and their work was, POOF, gone. A real problem, since we would conjure weapons and shelters and stuff like that. One dude bites the dust and entire fortresses vanish from existence. There was this one lady who created a...”
“I get the picture.” Nova interrupted EB.
Barnaby interjected. “It also wasn’t the modus operandi for Jinn. I read all the reports and witnessed his work personally in the Ireland incident. He would dupe others to help him, but he never relied on minions. There is no reason for him to release the world corps people.”
“Do you think the person behind this prison break has done so to use these soldiers in their own army?” Nova asked.
“Logically, yes. If the culprit behind the break-out wanted to simply cause havoc, there are much more dangerous and powerful villains in other BADGE prisons. Releasing the inmates in Purgatory Pen alone would cause global chaos. Also, if the culprit were just playing around, there was no reason to go to the lengths to release these prisoners rather than any other prison. This was too meticulous for someone simply showing off. Lastly, we know that the World Corps soldiers were devoted followers and good at being henchmen. Thus, logic dictates that the person behind this wanted the henchmen for their own little schemes.”
EB swooned, “Wow, that was all Sherlock Holmesy. And with that Brit accent of yours, it was even cooler. You should write a book or something.”
“Yes, of course.” Barnaby was a little bemused by the excited bunny.
Nova said, “Your logic does make sense. Whoever broke them out is using them. Jinn never used minions. But then why did she say that?”
EB said, “What about the World Corps? Ben Talos is still alive. Maybe he’s up to something evil. He was really nasty, like...a total jerk.”
“And clever.” Nova said. “Barnaby, head to Purgatory Pen and make sure Ben Talos is completely clear from being part of this.”
“I will do my best.” Barnaby gave off another brief nod and then walked off.
EB said, “I had a good idea then, right? Ben is probably behind this. I mean, who else would want the World Corps goons?”
Nova turned and walked away from the infirmary wing. “I’m not sure Ben is part of this. Whoever is doing this had the power to recreate Krampus and then send him all over the planet. They bypassed one of the most advanced security systems BADGE has, and were able to mess with Chase so badly, she is still unconscious. Drochah, yes, but Ben was just another pawn in Drochah’s plans. I...”
“Director Nova to Operations. Incoming transmission.” A robotic voice announced.
Nova hurried with EB through the station back to the Operations center. He found Gar standing at the command, waiting for him.
“Director, we have a transmission from the distress system.” Gar pointed to the blinking window on the screen.
“Yes, I just got the alert. Put it through.”
The screen opened up, and a man in a military uniform was speaking. “We are under attack by Ka’an Dorado forces. They are stronger than expected. Please, BADGE, send help.” It repeated the message again, which was cut short when Nova signaled for the mute.
EB scoffed, “Don’t these little nations know that BADGE isn’t here to settle land disputes?”
Nova pondered this for a moment. “Odd, that’s two distress calls from the same area of the world. Maybe this threat isn’t just petty land disputes between small countries. Robot 10915, do we have any images from Ka’an Dorado within the last two days?”
The robot scanned through millions of bits of data and then said, “Affirmative. We have access to fifty-seven security cameras on the streets of Ka’an Dorado, including bank Automated Teller Machines, Traffic Cameras, Home Security Cameras..”
“Stop. I want images inside their capital.”
EB asked, “Inside? What are you looking for?”
“Just seeing who is behind the little coup that overthrew that government yesterday. If I see a petty warlord, I’ll alert the United Nations. But if I see something unusual, it might be worth investigating.”
10915 reported, “Negative. All recording devices within the capital building of Ka’an Dorado were disabled forty-eight hours ago.”
“Whoever did this coup had it planned.”
10915 said, “Additional information related to request is available. Images of Ka’an Dorado capital building during requested time-frame are available.”
“Good. Put them all on screen. I don’t care how blurry they are.”
Two dozen images appeared, all stills taken from cameras all over the city. Most were extremely blurry, while a few were partially clear.
“Geeze, haven’t these people heard of High Definition?” EB muttered. “OOOh, why don’t you enhance them like they do on those cool Crime Scene shows?”
Nova rolled his one good eye. “This is reality, not science fiction. We can’t take out-of-focus images and make perfect....wait...10915, expand image twelve.”
A blurry image of the street before the capitol building took up most of the screen. Several men were walking into the building, each wearing a tuxedo. They carried something in their hands.
“10915 can we identify that weapon?”
“Affirmative. Image matches known specifications of the Automatic Morphon Atomizer, known as the AMA weapon.”
EB said, “I think we found our missing prisoners...and they’re all dressed up.”
Nova walked into the conference room on the Station. Quark and EB were discussing the best tasting liquor filled chocolate. Dr. Henderson and Agent Justin looked over several computer tablets. Arx and Gar sat near each other without saying a word to the other.
“Good, everyone is back.” Nova said, and walked up to the front of the room.
EB hopped up and stood on the table. “Is Santa here?”
Dr. Henderson said, “Yes. He’s with Chase at this time.”
Nova took his seat at the front of the room. “Give me a brief update on Chase.”
“She’s stable. Her vital signs are all good. I simply cannot wake her up. However, my sensors indicate she’s being held by some kind of arcane energy.”
EB said, “Santa’s really good with that stuff. Better than me, just don’t tell him I said so. If anyone can break the curse or spell on Chase, it will be him. Though I still think a kiss might do the trick.”
“Enough of that. Sit.” Nova pointed at the seat next to Quark, which the bunny reluctantly plopped down in.
“Quark?” Nova looked over at the blue hero. “What did you find in New Amsterdam and Paris?”
He shook his head. “With the help of local leagues and the police, we checked every last detail. I looked into the local energy spectrum as well. I could only see a residual trace of strange energy. But it’s the same energy I’ve seen at every attack. So, I know it’s connected to this Shadow Krampus. Unfortunately, it doesn’t help much.”
“Damnit. We need something. I know this isn’t the last of that thing.”
Quark sat forward. “There is one thing we did find...or rather, never found. At no time did we see any of the former World Corps goons involved. I gathered every speck of footage from New Amsterdam, security cams, ATMs, traffic cams, even cell phones. We ran everything through tracers and not one face pegged the sensors. There doesn’t seem to be a connection.”
Nova said, “I think we found the World Corps goons. They have overthrown a small country in Central America, Ka’an Dorado.”
“Ka’an Dorado? That’s like a spot in the road.” Arx piped in.
Agent Justin said, “Ka’an Dorado is one of the world’s leading gold resources. It is a small country, but they are extremely wealthy. They have never challenged any of their neighbors, but they aren’t weak. Their military is bolstered by the most expensive mercenaries money can buy. The fact that these world corps soldiers could so quickly overthrow them is...odd.”
Nova said, “Investigator Barnaby spoke with the United Nations security office and found that Ben Talos is not talking, however he hasn’t had any visitors since they incarcerated him. But, as we have seen before, masterminds can do things behind bars that defy logic.”
“Are you assuming that Ben Talos is behind this?” Agent Justin asked.
“I don’t know, but it does make sense. He would want the funds that controlling Ka’an Dorado would bring him. He would also automatically have the loyalty of the former World Corps Goons.”
Strange Quark asked, “What do we do?”
Nova said, “Simple. Ka’an Dorado sent us a distress call. We’ll answer it. Strange Quark, take BADGE representation with you and go remove the World Corps goons from this situation.”
Arx asked, “Just a few BADGE people. Not like a bunch of Heroes or a few leagues? These goons were a problem to fight before, and they just overthrew a whole country.”
Nova laughed, “They’re still using AMA weapons. We have enhanced our heroes and even agents to resist those weapons. This should be an easy extraction.”
EB stuck his hand up and waved it around.
Nova let out a soft sigh. “What?”
“Do ya think that these world corps idiots are behind Shadow Krampus?”
“I doubt it. We haven’t seen the connection yet. I’m beginning to think these two incidents might be separate after all. So, the objective is simple. Quark, you and your hand-picked team will go and deal with the World Corps. If you need backup, you’ll have access to the BADGE comm system. We will continue to investigate the Shadow Krampus situation and move forward with that.”
EB added, “And have a big wake-up party for Chase when she comes around.”
“No. We won’t. Just...get to work.”
Quark said, “Arx, Agent Justin, EB, you guys are with me. “
Arx cracked his knuckles, “Good, I’ve been wanting to smack around some of these world corps goons.”
Nova said, “Son, BADGE isn’t about revenge, only justice.”
“Hey, sometimes they are the same thing.” Arx said as he followed Quark out of the room.
Nova walked into the infirmary, where Santa knelt next to his daughter’s bed. He had a hand on her
head and was focusing on his magic.
“Nova?” Santa looked up.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt you.”
Santa stood up and held his head. “This is...powerful magic.”
“I knew it was powerful magic, but Vexillian magic is the strongest.”
Santa walked out of the room and got himself a cup of coffee at a little station in the waiting area. “You know that isn’t entirely true. There are other magics in this universe. Some of which are terribly powerful.”
Nova stepped into the room and quietly watched Santa for a moment while the old man sipped his black drink. There was a deep concern written on both their faces. Finally, Nova said, “It can’t be. The last of the darkest magics were destroyed a long time ago. I know, I did it personally.”
Santa sat down and wiped his hand across his sweating brow. “I’m worried, my old friend. Something changed recently, something that gave me reason for pause the moment it happened.”
Nova gently took his seat across from Santa. “I had hoped we solved that problem before it became a problem.”
“A force of pure darkness tore a hole in space. But you and I know that it wasn’t living in a void. It was from the darkest depths of the layers of space that anything can possibly live. The place where the most vile of evils has seethed for millions of years.”
“The Darkness was connected to Legion. Their actions formed it.”
“That may be true. But it wasn’t Legion that created the realm in which The Darkness thrived all this time. Why do you think it wanted to open a hole in space and spread darkness across this universe? It wants what that realm has wanted since the dawn of time....dominion.”
Nova stood and walked away. “We have been monitoring that tear in space since The Darkness first appeared. NightShadow has been in constant contact with us about it, to ensure that it was dormant. It will close, naturally, and be done with.”
Santa pointed a finger at Nova. “Since when do you underestimate evil? Since when does the amazing Director Nova not plan for the worst? It’s because you worry she has returned.”
“No.”
“Don’t lie to yourself! You’re scared to your very heart she has returned, and that’s why you’ve turned your remaining eye away from thinking it possible. You’ve let technology and other people’s opinions rule this situation. That hole was torn, and it leads to a place where you banished her.”
Nova walked toward the door, back to the main hallway. “If she had returned, I would know it.”
“For the sake of humanity, I hope you’re right. But blithely ignoring the possibility is dangerous.”
Nova paused just as the door opened from his push of the button. “Look, I’m not completely unaware of the possibility. I just...desperately want it to be anything else. I would rather it be Jinn right now, or even Krampus. But if she has returned, then I’ll need your help. The heroes...they don’t...they are strong, but they don’t know what true evil looks like. They haven’t faced the kind of horrible wickedness that lives in the heart of such a person.”
“I will be there for you. But her power is beyond mine. You know this.”
“I know. Just, for now, bring your daughter back. I need my first in command back at her station.” With that, he left the waiting room.
A BADGE shuttle lowered down to the center of the beautiful capital city of Ka’an Dorado. There was no traffic, no pedestrians, just a quiet city. A bright glow from the mid-day sun filled the humid air while a deafening silence broken now and then by the squawk of a tropical bird.
Strange Quark and Arx stepped out of the shuttle and looked around. Each grew worried by the lack of attention their arrival stirred. Nova insisted they arrive without cloaking the shuttles, so the people of the nation knew help had arrived and it would draw out their enemy that much faster.
Arx said, “For a nation that was just overthrown, there is a serious lack of battle damage. Everything looks so clean and nice.”
“I don’t like it.” Quark said, “Not the lack of damage. That’s fine, but we should have some kind of reception. I’m not even sensing anyone hiding in trees or behind buildings. No ambushes, nothing.”
Agent Justin stepped out next, with Krystal Fae and EB behind him. He had a small device in his hands. “The palace is that way.”
Krystal Fae walked up to Quark. “I’m glad to help, but it looks like I won’t be of service.”
“I doubt this’ll be easy. Let’s get to the palace and find out what the heck’s going on.”
EB bounced around. “This place is pretty, like, so colorful. I like it. Now, where’s a World Corps goon so I can smash an exploding egg in his face?” He materialized an egg in his paw.
“You’ll get your chance. Hold still, I’m going to zap us into the palace.” Quark looked around and then snapped his fingers. They all vanished and then reappeared in the same place.
EB looked around like he was about to fight, then paused. “Hey, we’re didn’t move. What gives?”
“I don’t know. Something blocked my transport.” Quark tried again and had the same results.
Krystal Fae held her head. “Okay, that’s enough. You’re gonna give me a massive headache.”
Justin leaned over and held back vomiting. “Yeah, please don’t do that again.”
“Looks like we’re on foot.” Arx marched onward.
Once they reached the palace, after a long walk, they found the outside just as dead as the city.
Justin said, “I don’t like this. No welcoming party.”
Krystal added, “It’s like they don’t even care to protect their new acquisition.”
Quark charged ahead, walking inside the palace. They went through several doors, down a long hall, and then opened the last door to the main throne room.
It was pitch black in the throne room. Krystal Fae reached up to conjure a ball of light, but an unknown source blew it out.
“I seriously don’t like this.” EB said, hiding behind Quark’s leg.
Music echoed around them, as though a symphony had now taken over the room. The dark, haunting melody of a waltz cried out. While it played, little candles appeared in the darkness. They moved toward the group, lightly bouncing. The more candles, the more light, and now the silhouettes of dark dressed individuals appeared. Women in elaborate gowns and black bird like masks. Men were in dark tuxedos with devil like masks.
A woman sung to the waltz, her voice dark and threateningly vicious. There was a joy in her words, like she was about to feast upon their very souls.
a song
a dance
a twirl
a chance
Let your mind be taken
let your soul reawaken
Be mine forever more
a song
a dance
a waltz
a trance
Let your heart now sink
Let your body shrink
as you die upon my floor
A song
a dance
this is your last chance
to be a glamorous child
a song
a dance
no words
just a glance
let the world fade away
night into day
your very last breath
will bring to you death....
There was a great blue explosion of energy, and it thrust everyone out of this nightmare. They had been dancing in the middle of the room with what they thought were other members of this party. Instead, they stood midst all these finely dressed people, each aiming one of their AMA weapons at them.
Strange Quark, who had broken through this insidious spell, was now half a giant blue duck, from his waist down. He had his hands out and was in a state of near-panic.
The dark lady sat upon the throne, a smile on her black lips. “Oh, how very clever. You, blue one, have the power to transcend dimensions. How wonderful.”
“That was quacking nuts.” Quark stated and then stood up, still half a duck. “Enough. I don’t know who or what you are, but that is over. And don’t think your weapons are threatening us. We’re immune to the power of those weapons.”
“How very rude of me.” She rose to her feet with all the grace of a queen. “My name is Lady Echidna. You should fear not the weapons, but me.” Without a glimmer of trepidation in her face, she strode toward them.
Krystal Fae stepped up. “Beware, she is magical.”
“Ah, what do we have here? Some little creature who touches magic.”
Krystal formed a ball of energy in her hand. “I do more than touch it.”
“Darling, you have no idea the true depth and breadth of magic.” Lady Echidna blew as though she were snuffing a matchstick, and the energy in Krystal’s hand simply evaporated.
Quark remained stern, even though he was still sporting the hindquarters of a waterfowl. “What’s going on here? Why are you controlling the World Corps soldiers? Why did you take over this nation? And do you have any connection to the Shadow Krampus?”
She laughed at him in a dismissive tone. Turning, she swept back to her throne and graced it again. “So many questions. But you aren’t ready for answers. What I know, what I am, what I have done, what I will do, all are brilliant questions. But you aren’t worthy to ask them and are certainly unworthy to receive an answer from the likes of me.”
EB hopped up with an enormous egg in his paws, “Why... why do I know you? You feel so familiar?”
“The Easter Bunny. How precious. Too bad I couldn’t bewitch you. It would be so much fun to have that kind of power among my followers.”
Justin prepped his gun. “She’s not going to give us answers. We shouldn’t waste our time.” Taking a stand before Quark, Justin said, “You’re under arrest for the unlawful...un….the…where am I?” he swayed and began to smile like an idiot.
“I feel funny.” EB held his head as he dropped his egg.
Lady Echidna opened up her arms. “Worship me!”
Everyone went groggy and fell to their knees.
“No...I won’t...” Krystal struggled the most, refraining from being taken.
Quark was overcome for a moment, even smiling at her as though she were the most beautiful thing in the universe. Then, he turned entirely into a duck and said, “What...you’re not getting away with this!” He flashed back into his normal self and sent out another wave of energy. All the others broke free from her spell, but he was focusing to maintain this. His blue energy contended against a strange force that acted like a great wind in the room.
Lady Echidna stood up and said, “My, my, you are strong. I can’t have that. Tell Nova to send his finest to strike me down. They won’t win. But I will entertain him and he knows it. Only Nova will I deal with...tell him...his wife is waiting for his return.”
With that, a blinding flash of black energy struck them. Everyone felt as though they were being flung across the city. In moments, each landed with a hard crash on a metal surface, crashing into tables and chairs. They were back on the BADGE spacestation.
Krystal sat up, looking around in a state of confusion. “Did she say she was Nova’s wife?”
Nova ran from his office when a warning buzzer sounded. He skidded into the center of the Operations center.
“Report?”
Gar pointed at the screen. “The robots detected a cloud over Ka’an Dorado?”
Nova looked, praying this was just a storm moving through the area. Instead, he found a strange black cloud building over the city, directly over the Capitol building. “What do we know?”
10915 answered, “Particle density indicates that this is not a natural weather phenomenon. Sensors are detecting the same energy signatures as the other Shadow Krampus events.”
Nova paced as he watched this. “I don’t like this. Is it taking a shape, is it Krampus?”
“A humanoid shape is forming in the cloud now. Energy signature is growing. It has already surpassed the size and strength of known energy signatures.”
Gar asked, “What does that mean?”
Nova looked at the data read-outs. “My god. This is already more powerful than the Shadow Krampus we last saw, and it took Midgard to take him down.”
The doors of the lift opened, and EB blasted out, running into Nova. He was hugging the director’s leg. “I’m so happy to be back here. She was crazy!”
Strange Quark led Krystal Fae, Arx, and Agent Justin down a bit slower than the hysterical bunny.
Nova looked at them with shock and a little irritation. “What are you doing back here? Did you make it to Ka’an Dorado?”
Quark nodded, “Yeah. We made it alright.”
Agent Justin came around to stand in front of Nova. “The situation there was completely unexpected. Some woman is in control of the World Corps soldiers and probably the rest of the nation. She has some kind of mental altering ability. If Strange Quark hadn’t been able to break her power, we would’ve fallen victim to her control.”
EB bawled, “I was so scared I would never see you again. She is a scary, mean, nasty woman. I mean, like a total witch. Promise me you won’t go! She is horrible!”
“What are you babbling about?” Nova demanded.
Krystal Fae stepped over to him. “Sir, this woman isn’t just another meta human. In fact, I have no idea what she is. Her power was...terrifying. I have never sensed a more cold, cruel heart. Even Jinn had an ounce of light in his black soul. She is utter darkness.”
Arx said, “She said something really crazy about being your wife. What’s up with that?”
Nova went pail. His gaze shifted away from them, and he slowly turned back to looking at the screen.
EB, now a little worried about Nova, hopped around and looked up at him. “Buddy, you alright?”
“No. I’m not. It’s her.”
Agent Justin said, “She called herself Lady Echidna. Do you know her?”
Nova calmly said, “Lady Echidna, so that’s what she’s calling herself now. Fitting, I suppose.” He seemed to be talking to himself as if they weren’t there.
“Nova, you okay? You sound like you are in a daze.” Krystal said.
EB gasped, “OH, NO! SHE’S GOT TO HIM! WAKE UP, BUDDY, WAKE UP!” He hopped up and slapped Nova with his little paw.
Nova took it without even budging. The fact that he let EB act like an idiot and even strike him without any recourse was enough to rattle everyone in the room.
After a moment of silence from their fearless leader, Nova gazed down at EB. “You know who she is. You’ve met her at least once before.”
EB stumbled back and put a paw up to his face, “Oh, no! Not her! Not...”
“Yes.” Nova whispered and then turned back to the gathering, “What did she say? Is she behind all these attacks?”
Agent Justin replied, “She said if we send heroes, they will not win. But she will entertain you. She has invited you to meet with her. I have no idea what she wants to negotiate for...”
“I do,” Nova said.
EB folded his paws, “Well, that witch ain’t getting you. I mean, what kind of dumb, ignorant fool does she take you for?”
Nova smiled. “I’ll have to think about this.”
Quark said, “You wouldn’t even consider this...would you?”
“I have to consider all possibilities. I am the protector of this world, and if that requires me to parlay with that woman, then I will. But I will consider all other options first.”
Lady Echidna’s voice boomed throughout the room. “What options would those be?”
Everyone turned to see her smiling at them from every screen in the room. She sat upon her throne, fanned by two of her loyal minions, while she sipped a fruity concoction.
“Lady Echidna, is it?” Nova greeted her.
She laughed and swirled about her drink. “You should come just to enjoy these little beverages. A delicacy of this lovely land I’ve acquired.”
“You know I won’t be part of your schemes ever again. I’ll take you down as I have before.”
She chortled at him, “Oh, the confidence, the arrogance. I think it’s why I find you so irresistible. Of course, you were always good in bed as well.”
EB made a gagging sound while everyone else looked terribly uncomfortable.
Nova was unfazed by her words. “Enough of this. I don’t know or care how you returned to this world, but I will send you back as I have in the past.”
“I wouldn’t count on that. You see, there is one little detail you are unaware of. I have, in my hand, the heart of one beautiful little lady who tried to look into my past.”
“Chase.” Nova whispered.
EB hopped up and down, irate. “YOU BITCH! YOU GIVE HER BACK! YOU CAN’T HURT CHASE! I’LL SHOVE AN EXPLODING EGG SO FAR UP YOUR...”
“As excitable as always.” She casually stared at the fuming bunny.
Nova demanded, “What are you going to do to her?”
“Let’s see.” She pretended to ponder this. “I could take her life right now. However, if you come and meet with me, I will consider releasing what I stole from her.” Before he could respond, she leaned forward and said, “You have twenty-four hours to meet my demand. And don’t think about trying to send in your little heroes to stop me. My champion will meet them.” She raised her glass, “See you soon, my dear husband.” and the screens changed back to normal.
EB was still fuming as the others stood in a state of shock. Gar asked, “What will you do?”
“I have no choice. I have to go to her.”
Krystal Fae said, “Are you sure about this? Chase is my friend too, but you’re more valuable.”
“WASH YOUR MOUTH OUT!” EB yelled.
Nova put a hand out to stop EB from going on a rant. “I won’t sacrifice anyone. I’ve put my life on the line for a long time to protect this world, and sometimes that means protecting just one person. However, I’m also not a fool. We will make a plan.”
“Can we plan down in the mess? I need a few stiff drinks.” Quark said.
Justin said, “I could use a bite to eat.”
“Come on. Gar, transfer all data about Ka’an Dorado and the current situation to some tablets and bring them along. 10915, send a message to NightShadow, I need him here as quickly as he can make it.”
“Understood.” The robot went to work while the others left for the mess hall.
Nova walked into the command level conference room. Arx, Strange Quark, and Gar were already present. From another door walked in Agent Justin with EB.
“The plan is perfect.” EB said right away.
Nova nodded. “We hashed out some good ideas down in the mess hall. Now, I have formed a complete plan from them. Right now...”
Just then, another person walked into the room. The hooded dark figure of NightShadow.
“Ah, NightShadow, good.” Nova walked him with a firm handshake.
NightShadow looked around the gathering. “Glad to be here. I hope you aren’t expecting me to have information about the Shadow Krampus. I already spoke with Investigator Barnaby about it. I don’t know much. The shadow energy it was made from was similar to the Darkness, but not quite the same. I...”
“Thank you, but that’s not why I called you.” Nova directed him to a seat. “I have a special request for you.”
“What?”
“I’ll get to that in a moment. Just listen to the situation, which will explain most of what you’ll need to understand before I ask what I need to ask.” Nova stood at the front of the room and turned on the monitor. An active video feed from the capital of Ka’an Dorado displayed the monstrous figure of Shadow Krampus looming over the city. “This is the current situation down on the planet. A Shadow Krampus bigger and more powerful than any others has appeared and is waiting.”
“Waiting?” Gar asked.
“Yes. You all know that Lady Echidna summoned this thing, but she has not set it on the war path yet. It’s merely her guard and insurance that I obey her.”
NightShadow asked, “Who is Lady Echidna?”
EB said, “Nova’s wife....or Ex-Wife, I’m not sure.”
“WIFE!” NightShadow blurted out.
Nova said, “For another time. Right now, the most dangerous person I can imagine is waiting for me to come and talk with her. She knows that there are thousands of heroes who will come to my call, so she has set this guardian to ensure that only those she desires stand before her. And if I should try to overpower her, I would be alone. But, I have another idea. I’m going to meet with her and I know what she wants. But, I’m not going alone. Strange Quark and EB will go with me, as they are strong enough to stand against her. She won’t perceive two others with me as a risk. She has a whole hoard of minions at her command. However, at the same time, Gar, Arx, Justin, you will summon the heroes of Earth and tell them to take down Shadow Krampus. He isn’t moving, but they can provoke him.”
Justin spoke up, “Sir, I know we talked about this part of the plan in the mess, and I still don’t agree. They constantly blame BADGE for collateral property damage, not to mention risk to lives. Why provoke an attack when there is no attack happening on the enemy’s part?”
“Because the true enemy is not the forty story Krampus in Ka’an Dorado. The enemy is Lady Echidna. She is ten times more dangerous than that shadow monster. I’ll distract her while the heroes battle that thing and bring it down. Once she’s deprived of her guardian, the heroes can come to my side and we will force her back out of this reality. That’s where you come in.” He looked at NightShadow.
“Me?”
“Yes. More than five hundred years ago, I, with the help of some friends, removed her from power by forcing her into the void. That tear in space created by the Darkness last year allowed her to return. I mean to fix that problem.”
Strange Quark said, “I like the idea, I really do. But she is horribly powerful.”
“Yes, she is. There are a few who can resist her power, and I’m one of them. Besides, I know she’s weaker now since she has only just returned. Her power is growing and we need to do this before she becomes a serious problem.”
NightShadow asked, “What do you need me to do?”
“I need you to watch over the tear in space from here. Also, use your special connection to the void to keep this station and BADGE from her watchful eye. She has already proven capable of spying at her leisure. That ends now.”
“I can do that.” NightShadow said.
Nova stood up and fixed his gloves. “Justin, take Gar and Arx and rally the troops. Do not engage until after I have landed and am talking to her. I don’t want her to know what we are up to. Strange Quark, EB, you’re with me.”
Quark stood up and said, “Say the word and we’ll be on her front doorstep.” He had his hand up, ready to snap his fingers.
“No. No teleportation. She’ll sense that right away. Besides, we need to give Justin time to get this message out.”
EB jumped up and ran across the table. “Nova, buddy, don’t go. I can take her. I won’t be bamboozled again...I promise. Quark can even take your form and fool her long enough for me to feed her an egg filled with...”
“You know how clever she is. You know she’ll see through any ruse that isn’t me.” Nova said.
EB pouted. “I just don’t want you to go. She is soooo mean.”
“I know exactly how cruel she can be. But I can deal with her. You and Quark get the shuttle ready. I’m going to take care of something.”
The hushes of a breathing machine softly broke the deathly silence of the infirmary. Dr. Henderson had to put Chase on life-support as her body was slowly shutting down.
“Nova?” Santa looked up from where he had fallen asleep watching his daughter.
Nova walked over to Chase’s bedside and looked down at her. “I’m going to save her life, my old friend. I promised I would take care of her when you first sent her to me, and I mean to see that to the bitter end.”
“You’re going to confront that demon?” Santa asked.
Nova nodded, “Yes. I have to.”
“Are you sure she’ll give Chase back?”
Nova shook his head. “I don’t know. But, I have to try.”
Santa stood up and walked over to Nova. “Why? Every time this witch gains power, you take it personally. It’s like you’re repaying a debt, but I don’t see the debtor?”
“The debt I owe is far older than you, Santa. You do not know what I did. If it weren’t for me, this witch would never have gained the power she has. Every time she rises to power and begins killing people, their blood is on my hands. I will not allow Chase’s blood to stain my hands while I live. I would rather die.”
“I’m coming with you.”
Nova smiled at Santa, “I would welcome your support, but I need you to stay out of this.”
“What?”
“I need to know that you are safe here, watching her and BADGE. I know you never wanted to play hero, but I need you to be strong in case...in case I don’t make it. Besides, I’m taking EB with me.”
“But, EB is not a military leader. I was the Grand Admiral of the Vexillian armies.”
Nova laughed, “True. But EB helped me vanquish this witch once before.”
“He did? I didn’t know that.”
“It’s a long story and I don’t have time to tell it. I just needed you to know I’m going and if I succeed, Chase will wake.”
“I will do as you ask. But I still think I should go instead of EB.”
Nova looked back, “Could you grab me a cup of coffee from the waiting room? I could use a hot drink before heading out.”
“Sure.” Santa left the room.
Nova put his hand on Chase’s head, “This is for if I don’t return, but you do.” He closed his eyes and waited a moment.
“What are you doing?” Santa was now standing next to Nova.
Nova gently removed his hand. “Just wishing her well. Thanks.” He took the coffee and walked out of the infirmary.
Agent Justin and Arx stood with Gar in the Operations center of the BADGE station. They watched with no small amount of dread in their eyes as the ethereal monolithic Krampus loomed over Ka’an Dorado. The BADGE drones keeping an eye on this were far above the city so that they could see from border to border of the city itself, and this only enhanced the surreal nature of the monster.
NightShadow stepped out of the lift. “I’ve secured the space around the station. If anyone tries to use shadow powers to spy on us, they will be blinded.”
Justin asked, “Do you know if anything else has come through?”
“I can’t be certain. I don’t know when this Lady Echidna came through. But it is so small now that it would need to be widened if anything tries to enter this reality.”
Arx said, “I get the feeling this lady doesn’t want to get anywhere near that hole in space again.”
“That’d be my guess.” Justin said. He looked at Gar. “Where is the shuttle now?”
Gar looked at a special tablet that was built with top security. “The shuttle has landed near the palace.”
“Okay, that’s our cue. 10915 activate the Black Alert Comm line.”
The lights changed color to a red hue and a beeping sounded to indicate the top-level alert status. Comm windows opened to League HQ’s all over Earth. Some had people already there to take this call.
“This is Agent Justin. We have a situation in Ka’an Dorado. Another Shadow Krampus has shown up, and this time, he’s much bigger and stronger than any other before. You are to go in and strike it down. Once you have completed this task, you are to proceed to the Ka’an Dorado capitol building and lend assistance as necessary. You will be given further instructions once you have entered the Capitol building. Remember, BADGE wants minimal property damage, but your focus is taking out this Shadow Krampus. For the duration of this battle, Director Nova is unavailable. I will be in charge of BADGE. Agent Justin out.”
Gar said, “That was good.”
Justin whispered, his eyes quivering at the ominous sight before him. “God, I hope this works.”
Nova walked into the capital building of Ka’an Dorado with Strange Quark on his left and EB on his right. Men and women dressed in elegant outfits lined the hall as a greeting. No AMA weapons were present, only party guests.
“Wow, that’s creepy.” EB stated when all the men and women slowly turned to look at them. Masquerade masks still on their faces.
Nova said, “She was always one for making an impression. Ignore them. She has no intention of attacking us now.”
Strange Quark waved his hand over his face and created a duck-style mask that resembled theirs. When Nova gave him a slanted glare, he smiled. “Hey, just thought I’d try to fit in.”
Before Nova could scold him for this, that sultry voice echoed down the corridor. “Welcome home, sweetie.”
It did not rattle Nova. At least he didn’t show any emotions to this, but his focus was all the more determined.
EB hopped along beside him, an explosive egg in his paw. “She looks nothing like the woman we fought before. I didn’t even know it was her. She’s a lot sexier now, in an evil villain that might eat your soul kinda way. But, still hot.”
They were let into the throne room by two men who opened the doors for them. Lady Echidna was draped across the throne, smiling at them. “How nice of you to say, Easter Bunny, or is it EB these days?”
“Look, darling, you can call me whatever you want. I’m still gonna shove this right...”
Nova stopped him. “I’m here. If you think this changes anything, you’re wrong. I still protect this world from the likes of you.”
“Oh, so you are still the champion of this little race of children. Sad. You are worthy of so much more. Once, you recognized that.” She beckoned to one of her servants, who rushed to give her a glass of wine.
Nova said, “I don’t have time to play your games. Give me back Chase, let her go and I’ll consider not shoving you into the void again.”
She sipped some wine and smiled. “Do you know what it was like, all those years, in the vast nothingness between realms? Terrifying, and a little sweet. I learned a great many new tricks there, things that even the great...what do you call yourself these days...Nova, don’t know about.”
Nova looked around the room, “I command you to submit! Obey me!” His voice became a booming echo that rattled the walls. Only EB had ever truly experienced this power of his before. Strange Quark was a bit befuddled.
The surrounding minions were swaying, and some held their heads in confusion. Lady Echidna merely sipped a little more wine and then said, “So, that was your game? You come in here and expect to erase my control over my new army. Like I even needed them.”
EB chortled. “That’s not our only plan, babe. We’re so far ahead of you!”
“Are you now?” She sat up and set the glass back on the tray of her servant, who had regained his vacant look. “You mean the other plan to attack my pet Krampus with all your heroes and then overtake me and force me to give you back Chase before shoving me into the void? That plan?”
EB stopped smiling, “Uh...no...that’s not our plan...um...”
She rose and swept over to Nova. “You think I’m not prepared for your little tricks and tactics? I’ve been preparing for this day for the past five hundred years. I have every moment meticulously planned out. Want to see how far you are from being able to defeat me? Watch!” She waved her hand and clouds of darkness formed in the air, each containing a view of the outside.
Heroes stormed in and attacked the Shadow Krampus. The fight was raging and Midgard eventually slammed the giant figure against the ground, which was followed by hundreds of energy blasts that destroyed the creature. EB was already celebrating when two more Shadow Krampus rose in the city and went after the heroes.
She whispered in Nova’s ear, “They can summon him again and again, and they will continue to defeat him. But, he will return. They will spend hours, days, even weeks hoping to defeat him but they will fail in the end. Even the strongest heroes you have cannot last forever, but my pet has no end. You lose.”
Nova grabbed her by the throat and spoke with that commanding voice. “YOU WILL OBEY ME, YOU WILL SUBMIT TO ME!”
She smiled and laughed at him. “You forget, sweetie, you could never control me.” She vanished and reappeared a few feet away from him. “But I certainly can control you.”
Nova pointed at her. “I’ll never obey you!”
“Oh, then watch them die.” She returned to her throne.
Nova heard gagging sounds and realized that his two companions were on the floor, clutching their chests. “EB! QUARK!”
EB’s eyes rolled back into his skull while Quark transformed into several creatures, each one in the same agony.
“They will die. I could have killed them the first time, but I chose to let them bring you to me. All those I touched with my power before have the darkness seeded into their hearts. In moments they will die, as will your precious Chase.”
Nova slapped the comm unit on his arm, “JUSTIN!”
Gar came through, “Director, Justin is on the floor in pain. I think he’s dying.”
Nova flicked it off and asked, “What do you want from me? Please, don’t do this!”
“Begging. That’s a pleasant start. Oh, how I missed being able to bring you to your knees. But, I’m also not unreasonable. My demand is very simple, Nova, sweetie. Return to my side. Obey as you once did. Then, they will be released. Be quick about this. They don’t have much time.”
Nova felt something he had rarely felt in his life. Helplessness. When he heard EB gasping for breath, he knew he had no choice. “Fine...I’ll join you.”
“Say it.” She demanded.
“Let them go, first. And, I will say it.”
She smiled, “I know you to be a man of your word. Do not disappoint me.” She snapped her fingers and both EB and Quark gasped in a breath and then were transported away in a flash of black mist. “Now, say it!”
He stood firm and clenched his fists. “I will...worship you.” With those words, he became as vacant as the other minions.
“You’re gonna pace until there’s a hole in the floor.” Arx said to Justin.
“The heroes have taken down several Shadow Krampus in Ka’an Dorado and he just keeps coming back. How can we send heroes in to help Director Nova if they keep fighting those shadow things?” Justin continued to walk.
Gar said, “Maybe Nova doesn’t need the help. EB and Quark are really powerful.”
“I don’t know. I just don’t like this. I feel...I feel strange.” Justin staggered and fell against a console as he gripped his chest.
Arx hit the deck on his knees and held his throat. “I...I can’t breathe...gah...” He gagged.
Gar panicked, “Justin, Arx! Someone help!”
A robot announced, “Calling Doctor Henderson.”
Gar turned around twice. “NightShadow?”
Nova’s voice burst through the comm, “JUSTIN!”
Gar grabbed Justin’s comm unit. “Director, Justin is on the floor in pain. I think he’s dying.”
The comm cut off.
“Director! Help!” Gar shook the comm device.
Dr. Henderson rushed in with an aide and quickly checked the two men. “This isn’t good. Arx is out, and Justin is...stay with me!” She pressed a device up against his neck. “I can’t get oxygen into him. Nothing is working. I don’t understand.”
Arx suddenly gasped and panted. “I...can’t...I can breathe. What...”
Justin did the same, gasping and then breathing as though he had just returned from drowning.
“Calm down, calm...” Dr. Henderson administered some medication and helped him sit up. The aide assisted Arx.
Two flashes of light appeared and both Quark and EB landed in the middle of the Operations center.
“Oh, my head.” EB flopped on his back. “That bitch, she got me.”
Quark turned into a toad, “Aw, crud. I almost croaked. Now, I’m a toad. Someone dump some water on me, or better yet, vodka.”
Justin stood with the help of Dr. Henderson. “No time for jokes, Quark. What happened?”
Quark, still a toad, answered, “I’m not entirely sure. She had control of everything. It was a plan. She knew we would come and Nova would try to use the heroes as a backup. She demanded Nova’s obedience. In exchange, she would spare our lives. I sorta lost focus after I heard all that. I guess he agreed to her demands, otherwise would likely be dead.”
“NOT A CHANCE!” EB roared and then grabbed his forehead. “Oh, no yelling until this headache goes away.”
“Where’s my comm?” Justin looked at his wrist.
Gar handed it back.
Justin clicked it on. “NightShadow? Where are you?”
NightShadow’s voice came through. “I was outside, checking on my defenses against the void, and something grabbed me. I couldn’t move, couldn’t use my powers. It was like I was frozen. I was just released. What the hell is going on?”
“Get in here. I think our plans just went down the toilet.” Justin changed the comm line. “Agent Justin to Krystal Fae, report?”
Krystal flew hard toward the looming shadow Krampus that swiped a massive claw at a dozen heroes. She spoke into her wrist comm, “This is the seventh Krampus I’ve fought so far. There’s another on the other side of town. Midgard is...” She dove and then zoomed hard to avoid a spray of energy from the monster’s eyes. Once stable, she continued, “Midgard is taking on a third in the Market District. I hate to say this, but we are hardly able to keep this city from being damaged.”
“Our priority is stopping Lady Echidna. Do what you can to move heroes toward the Capitol.”
“That may not be possible.” Krystal cringed when a massive explosion rocked the city behind her.
“What was that?”
Looking back, she smiled, “Looks like Midgard just smote another Krampus and I’m not seeing it reforming. And...” A second explosion echoed across the country, “there goes number two. All that’s left is the one in front of me.”
“Take it down and then get to Nova now. His life may be in serious danger.”
“Understood.” Krystal charged at the last Krampus while every other hero in Ka’an Dorado converged on the beast.
Punches, kicks, rocks, cars, and anything else joined hundreds of energy beams, bolts, and blasts the heroes could throw. This last Krampus exploded in a ghostly mist.
“Done.” Krystal said and clicked on her comm, “All heroes, to the Capitol Building.” She led the charge, only to find a new Shadow Krampus form as they approached the square in front of the Mayan pyramid shaped building. “This...isn’t right.”
The heroes went to work attacking it. Midgard body slammed it and ripped the shadowy head from the body and threw it away. It was a quick battle, but just as the heroes tried to cross the square again, another Krampus formed.
“Wait!” Krystal called out. “There’s something wrong.”
“I ENJOY MAULING THIS JERK!” Midgard yelled.
Krystal said, “But, he isn’t attacking... he’s just standing there.”
“What’s going on?” Justin asked into his comm.
Krystal came through. “Every time we defeat Krampus and then approach the Capitol Building, another Krampus forms. These are... not as strong as the others. It’s like a defender who can’t be beat, but isn’t really that strong. We can’t kill it, but we can’t get past it.”
“This isn’t right.” Quark said, still a toad on the ground. “Lady Echidna is just holding us back, keeping us from getting to Nova.”
“What’s she doing to my Buddy? I’m gonna go in and stop her myself!” EB hopped toward the lift.
“Wait!” Justin said.
“No. That bitch is just keeping us away. She’s doing something terrible to my bestest friend and I won’t have it.” EB jumped up and slapped the control to call for the elevator.
Justin said, “Look, I’m pissed too. But running head first at this won’t do much good. We have to plan.”
“So, we’re going back?” EB came back to Justin in a flash.
Justin nodded. “Yes.”
“She’s so strong. This may not be a good idea.” Quark said in a strangely croaky voice.
Justin straightened up. “While Nova is away, I’m in command. I say we organize ourselves and rescue our leader and friend. We’ve faced demons, monsters, dragons, and time itself. This creature calling herself Echidna is just another villain to be vanquished. She raised the stakes when she stole Nova, and I won’t have it. Quark, pull yourself together and work with NightShadow. We have to disrupt her power over the void. Arx, Gar, I want you to...”
The lift opened, and Chase stepped out with Santa at her side. She was pale and had to use her father’s arm to keep standing up straight.
“CHASE!” EB bound over to her and was hugging her leg.
She smiled at the affectionate bunny, but then gave Justin a grim look. “I know what you're doing. Nova told me you would. But you cannot do this.”
“What are you talking about?” Justin asked.
Chase kindly removed the bunny and then worked her way down to the front of the room with Santa’s help. “Nova connected with me while I was in that coma. He gave me knowledge about him, about this woman, and about his plan. He knew she would want him, need him to come to her side. Her love for him is psychotic. Using that, he would bargain for our freedom, for my life. But, he said to me, if I woke and he had not returned, to keep everyone from going to his rescue.”
Gar asked, “Why? We love him too. He’s our family.”
Chase went silent as she processed her thoughts. “He told me everything. He showed me his history. I’m still sorting it out. It’s like a nightmare I’m trying to piece together after waking. What I learned is what she is and who He is. Nova... he’s nothing we imagined. Both him and this woman are powerful beyond measure. If we go to his rescue now, we’ll all die. None of us is truly ready to face her.”
Justin asked, “That’s it? He commanded us to abandon him?”
“No.” Chase said, “He saved me, but we must now save the world. His last command he wanted me to convey to everyone is this; be clever.”
Thousands of heroes fill every available space of the BADGE space station. Teams huddle together, but seem to mingle well with other teams. Former enemies in the arena are talking over tea while serious rivals joke with one another.
“Excuse me.” Chase pushes past a group who are watching a news monitor near the main mess hall.
Gar sidles along, his large wings making it extra hard to get around such a crowded space. He smiles as he says to Chase, “look, Darkwrath and Mr. Stupendous are eating lunch together. I thought they hated each other.”
“They did. At least after Faction Wars, they were bitter. But, I suppose getting shoved together in here has made them put aside grudges.”
“So, there is something good about this,” said Gar.
“Sure.” Chase muttered and found her way into the lift for the operations center.
She and Gar stepped out of the lift into the command center and found it too had a lot of extra people here. Heroes sat among the robots at the operation stations. Some helped do work, while others looked positively bored.
Santa met her at the front of the room. “Angela! Good, the call is about to start.”
“Incoming communications on secure channels.” A robot announced.
“Put it through.” She glanced back at a tech hero sitting among the robots. “Charlie, I want you to monitor all the tech and be certain no one hacks this signal.”
Two screens opened, one with Prime Minister Shizue and one with Mayor Christopher of Neo Utopia.
“Prime Minister, Mayor Christopher.” She greeted them.
Shizue asked, in a tone like a mother, “how are you, Chase?”
“As well as I can be under the circumstances. How are the heroes under your care?”
Shizue gave a soft nod. “We have over five thousand refugees in our borders right now. Most of them are unregistered supers that are too young or too old to be fighting anyone with their powers. No BADGE leagues made it inside before we were forced to seal the barrier. But we have a lot of amateur meta-humans helping protect us.”
Chase asked the Mayor, “what about Neo Utopia?”
“We don’t have any leagues present, either. Our focus was to get children and unregistered metas here. We have over ten thousand refugees in this city. I’m afraid some are sleeping in tents in the parks. Strangely enough, Rutkowski’s men have been seeing to security both on our border and on the streets. This city has never been safer. However, the combined forces of the World Corps and the UN are standing watch for any crack in our defenses.”
Shizue said, “the same here. We have a massive army standing just outside my barrier wall. The moment they see a crack, they will invade. I do not want war in our streets, but I won’t back down to their threats, either. My people have had enough bullies.”
Mayor Christopher asked, “what did Nova say is the next move? All the legitimate heroes of Earth are on standby, but for how long?”
“I...I don’t know. Director Nova never told me his plans. He simply didn’t want BADGE going to war against the nations. Any action against the World Corps would be viewed as an attack against all the nations. It would be civil war across the entire planet.”
Christopher said, “we must consider the next action. Without a plan from Nova, it’s up to us.”
“I concur,” Shizue said. “We cannot stand idle forever. My people will starve. We can barely support ourselves.”
Chase waited for someone else to pipe in with an idea or comment, but everyone simply looked at her. She recognized those eyes. It was the same look people gave Nova when it was time for a new plan. “I...I will...we...I will have to consider what to do and get back to you. All I can say is to be vigilant and don’t let harm come to those people. BADGE out.” She cut off the signal.
Santa kindly said, “that was well done, Angela.”
Chase put her face in her hand and whispered, “oh, God, what do I do? I’m not ready for this.”
***
Gamma sat in the command center of the secret base for the World Corps. On a screen was a view into the temporary HQ set up near the United Nations. Judge Alpha and Beta sat in that room talking to other people on other monitors.
“Judge Alpha, the situation in the streets of Cairo is drastic. The Dust Devil gang is wreaking havoc. They are meta humans and known villains. My people cannot fight them with the regular police. We need your heroes to do something.” An ambassador from Egypt complained.
Alpha smiled at him with all the diplomacy she had. “I understand. Our heroes were only recently trained and assigned. I’m sure something will be done soon.”
A woman said, “just this week, two meta humans destroyed three banks and carried off the vaults. They are flaunting their actions in the face of our constabulary, knowing they can’t be stopped without heroes present. Tell your people to do something!”
Beta said, “we hear your concerns and I’ll address the UN soon about this. I’m sure our Commander Gamma will deal with this. I’m afraid our search for BADGE and their villains taxed our resources more than expected. Tell your people we will have the matter in hand.”
The screens to the UN cut off, and both Alpha and Beta turned to the secret monitor and looked at Gamma with severe eyes. Alpha demanded, “what’s going on, Gamma! We just gained the public’s trust. We can’t violate it now.”
Gamma shrugged with a loud huff, “tell that to our mighty leader. He said I would have command over the augments, and yet all I have been able to do is coordinate our mercs with the UN forces. The augments are only worried about finding BADGE and obeying Delta.”
“Where is Delta?” Beta craned his head to look around Gamma.
“Didn’t show up. Still back in the lab researching something.”
“Go and tell him what’s going on. I don’t care how much he threatens us, even he must realize we must do something,” commanded Alpha.
Gamma left his seat and walked back to the labs. Pushing the doors open, he found Delta glued to a complex computer terminal. Dr. Osteen was at another station, working on some genetic research. The fat doctor gave Gamma a shrug. Even he knew everyone was unhappy with Delta right now.
“Hey Delta, we have a growing problem.”
Delta ran several calculations and watched a map of the Earth. “It is out there, the time particles are fluctuating at the precise frequencies and 2200 hours. I will find you.”
Gamma stepped closer, “aren’t you listening to me?”
The map had a red marker show up and beeped wildly. Delta burst out with joy, “there! There he is! That is the temporal vortex that opened for seven point nine seconds. That must be how and when he got here. Now, I just need to find him.” He grabbed a tablet and walked away, just as focused on this new device as he had been on the computer.
“Delta!” Gamma watched him walk out of the room.
Delta casually waved a hand behind him, “yes, yes. Don’t bother me.”
Gamma stood in the laboratory, frustrated and at a loss for what action to take. The bays that were formally filled with the augmented people were vacant. The testing facilities were offline. Only a few computers remained operational. The only other living soul here was Dr. Osteen, and he had his nose buried in his own computer.
“Osteen!”
“It’s doctor Osteen. I didn’t suffer twelve years of college and a painful dissertation to leave that part out.” Osteen declared and then continued working.
Gamma stomped over to him. “Fine, Doctor Osteen. Do you have any idea why Delta is acting so...strange lately?”
Osteen shrugged, “who knows? That dude has been a bundle of nerves since the day he broke me outta prison. He has been more up tight lately.”
“Can you show me what he has been working on in here?”
Osteen sat back and said, “everything he works on is locked out to everyone, including me. He keeps his secrets. However...” Osteen gained a devilish smile. “I can hack into just about anything. One of the many reasons I’m the most wanted scientist in the world.”
“Prove it.”
Osteen shoved off against his own station and wheeled across the lab in his chair, landing in front of Delta’s station. In a show of pure theater, he cracked his knuckles, wiggled his fingers, and then went to town on the keyboard. “Lets see...simple firewalls, password check points, some basic diversionary programs...and....here...we...go. Eleven seconds and I’m in. Not my personal best, but pretty good.”
“So, what do you see?” Gamma leaned in and was met by a blindingly confusing array of numbers, graphs, and simulations.
“Interesting, very interesting. Looks like Delta has been using this lab to track disturbances in time. Wow, would you look at that? Time is fracturing all over the world. This is really odd and seriously bad.”
“Fracturing?” Gamma asked.
“It’s like that episode of Star Trek Voyager when the ship is broken up into different time periods. It was a Chakotay heavy episode, but still good.”
“In non-nerdspeak please.”
“Basically, the theoretical fabric of time in this solar system has small cracks in it. They’re all pretty tiny, hardly enough to cause any significant problems. But, for a moment, a crack opened that was huge, but then sealed itself. That’s what Delta was looking at.”
Gamma paced behind the doctor. “I guess something like this could be concerning. Although, why is he keeping it to himself? If there’s a problem like this, we should all know. Do you have any more info on the time situation?”
“No. It looks like he found the big fracture and stopped testing the time problem.” Osteen scrolled through screens of data, which included DNA mapping, diagrams of the morphon crystals, and more.
“What’s all that?” Gamma asked.
“This is my work, but he has...I don’t know...changed it. No, wait, he didn’t do this, I did. Fascinating.” Osteen leaned in closer to read a report.
“You did something?” Gamma was still lost.
“Delta’s strange additions he had me design during the development of the augments have a purpose. I can’t tell what it is, but it’s more important than anything else. I think these alterations are the crux of all his plans, but I can’t tell what they do.”
“What did Delta have you do? Aren’t the augments just programmed to follow orders for the Word Corps?”
Osteen shook his head. “On the surface, yes. But there’s something more. Do me a huge favor and keep an eye out. I’m going to sort this out and I don’t want Delta vaporizing me for digging through his files.”
Gamma said, “I’m no computer expert, but wouldn’t he already be alerted to you digging round top secret folders?”
“Seriously, you are a real noob at this stuff. I didn’t just barge into his files and start poking around. I cloned his info and am looking at an independent system. As far as he is concerned, his files are still locked down and secure. However, if he sees me looking at this, I’ll have a hole in my chest, you know that.”
“True. Keep reading. I’ll go make sure you aren’t bothered.”
Gamma strolled into the command center as casual as any other day. To his great relief, Delta was focused on the comm screen, so he hadn’t noticed the intrusion to his private files.
Judge Alpha spoke to him from her location near the UN, “we can’t just sit around and wait while villains attack cities. The world is counting on our heroes to replace BADGE.”
“Tell them, once we have Nova, then our heroes will keep their people secure. Not before.”
“We can’t do that!” Alpha yelled in reply. “The Australian Prime Minister just said that Kangaroo Killer has already taken a whole town. His minions have all the city’s leadership tied up in the middle of the street. We have to do something.”
Delta huffed, “put the Prime Minister through to me.”
“But...”
“NOW!”
Alpha slammed a control and her screen changed to the office of the Australian Prime Minister, who was more than shocked at the sudden appearance.
“Hello, to whom am I speaking?” She asked.
Delta cooled off. “I’m Delta, a member of the ruling counsel for the World Corps.”
“I have never heard of you. I was speaking with your superior, Judge Alpha. Please...”
“You’re speaking with me now. When I have Director Nova in my hands, then my heroes will help protect your people. His capture is far more important than petty criminals.”
“I would hardly call Kangaroo Killer petty. He was threatening to kill all the city officials just for fun, on live streaming. Fortunately for the both of us, someone else stepped up and put a stop to the crime spree in that city moments ago. Kangaroo Killer and his cohorts are currently in custody.”
“What!? Who did this? Was it Nova?”
“Doubtful, Mr. Delta. Some mechanical heroes arrived and saved the city. I do not believe they are superheroes, but they are certainly heroes to my people. The lack of hero support from the World Corps has severely tarnished my opinion of you and your actions. I will be filing a request for an inquiry with the United Nations.”
“You do that.” Delta cut the communication off.
Gamma asked, “who stepped up to save that city? I thought all heroes were currently in hiding.”
Delta casually commanded, “computer, scan Australia for any rise in morphonic activity.” A map appeared, and the country was scanned ten times.
“Negative: no heightened morphonic activity registered in the area of Australia.”
Delta brushed this off. “Must be some jokers who decided to play hero. Not our concern.” He slapped the comm button and Alpha was called up again. “Tell Beta we’re about to call on the UN for an emergency meeting, now.”
“But...”
“Now!”
Nova’s office seemed so big right now. Chase couldn’t decide it if was because she was alone on a station jammed with wall-to-wall people or because Nova filled the room so much when she was here. Running her gloved hand over his desk, she wanted so much to be on the other side, talking to him.
“Dammit, Nova, where are you?” She whispered as she activated a small computer. It held all his secret orders and commands. She had access to information that Nova wouldn’t allow God to see if he asked. Yet, she didn’t care about some of his deepest, darkest secrets, just the last page of orders and plans he had written out.
On the screen were simple words, spelling out: Contain all heroes, keep them safely out of World Corps hands, do not retaliate, be ready for the right time."
Gar stepped into the room. “Chase. Are you okay?”
“No. I’m a child playing house in an adults room.” She sat back. “Tell me something good, Gar.”
He fumbled with his words for a moment and gave this request serious thought. Finally, he smiled, “you look pretty today.”
“That’s not a proper thing to say to your C.O.”
“Oh, I just...”
She smiled at him, “but it was sweet.”
“Um...uh...oh, I do have good news.”
“I could use some right now.”
He said, “the protests outside some of the Fight Club’s have broken up. People are restarting their protests against the World Corps.”
“That’s something I suppose. Oh, Gar, what do I do? The world is tearing itself apart, and all Nova left me was a three sentence plan of doing nothing about it.”
“Director Nova was a clever man. We should trust him.”
“How far do we take that trust?” Chase asked.
Before Gar could stumble over another answer, a red light blinked on the desk and she was summoned back to the command room.
Chase led Gar back into Operations where all the robots and assisting heroes watched the giant monitor on the back wall. “Report!”
A hero said, “The Stygian has broken free from captivity and is attacking New Amsterdam. She has a small band of minions from the prison with her. The local police have been told to keep their distance since they don’t have...uh...hero support.”
On the monitor, they could see the garishly green clad villain leading a hoard of marauding hooligans as they ransacked the high-end shopping district. The Stygian unleashed green bolts of energy, playfully destroying water tanks on top of old apartment buildings.
A woman on the news spoke about the chaos. “It is mayhem in downtown New Amsterdam. The Chief of Police has requested all citizens evacuate the East Side. Right now, the National Guard and Police are working together to create a barrier, hoping to keep the enemies contained. However, if a concerted strike on any one point of such a barrier is executed, it is unclear if any normal methods of containment can hold. The Mayor has called upon the World Corps to send in their heroes, but so far there has been no response.”
A hero sitting with one robot muted the monitors. “We can have our team ready in moments! Send us down there.”
Chase watched the atrocities being executed in the defenseless city.
“Director!” the hero demanded her attention.
“Chase...” Gar tapped her shoulder.
She did not turn to answer, “no.”
“NO!? But...why?”
“It’s what Nova wanted. We must...”
“Nova didn’t want us fighting the World Corps or the UN. These are just villains.”
Chase said, “no. We cannot move without drawing everyone in. We must wait.”
“Wait, wait, wait! That’s all you say! We’re going down there.” The hero stormed away from the desk toward the lift.
“Carol! Look!” Another hero stopped the enraged woman.
The screen was unmuted when everyone watched a team of three large, two-legged robots appear with people piloting them. They unleashed a volley of lasers that took down all the general rabble in one shot. The Stygian rushed in to fight, but it was a brief battle. Soon, she and her companions were quickly rounded up and hauled off.
The news anchor said, “I’m not sure what these devices are. They have never been seen before either by a known world power or by BADGE. They have markings on them, but they match nothing in use by the World Corps’ forces. More about this as this story unfolds.”
Chase gave a slicing motion across her throat and the sound was cut off. “Do any of you know who or what those are?”
None of the other heroes in the room answered.
Chase said, “fine. I don’t like the idea of an unknown rogue party stepping up to fight villains, but at least they were quick and efficient.”
Gar asked, “do you think these are part of Nova’s plan?”
“I don’t know, and I have no idea how to find out.”
***
Delta sat at the command table in the secret HQ. Before him was the large monitor with small windows displaying faces of men and women from the UN.
“Who are you?” A man asked.
“I’m part of the commanding council of the World Corps.”
An Indian woman said, “we only speak with the leader or formal representative. Where is Judge Alpha?”
“Judge Alpha reports to me. I’m the last word in the World Corps.”
An American man said, “I always thought there must be someone pulling her strings. I thought it was your own little group of representatives, your own private little United Nations.”
Delta smiled from behind those dark sunglasses of his. “I have dissolved that little committee. For now, I’m the only vote that matters.”
“What is it you want to cast your vote on, sir?” A woman from England asked.
“We have a serious problem.” Delta said.
The Indian rep said, “yes. Villains are roaming our streets and cities unchecked. We need hero support from the World Corps now.”
“That problem is secondary.”
“Secondary!” The American barked. “People are being kidnapped, banks are being robbed, entire cities are being taken over by these petty tyrants. What about this is secondary?”
Delta laughed, “meager problems that will be resolved quickly once the actual situation is dealt with.”
“And just what is the situation you speak of?”
Delta gave them all a cold, quiet pause and then said, “Director Nova remains at large. Our combined forces have failed to bring him in. We must have him, or all our efforts for peace will be for nothing.”
“Bah!” The French rep replied. “Nova is on his station with the other heroes. We don’t have time to worry about one man who has had all his power curtailed.”
“Nova is still here, on Earth. I know it. The time vortex opened and closed AFTER the heroes evacuated!”
“Time vortex?” The rep from England frowned at him. “What are you talking about?”
Delta calmed himself down. “I have evidence of Nova’s activity after the heroes evacuated. It happened after the last shuttle left, after the last portal was sealed. He’s still here. And if he did, somehow, make it to the station, we have a bigger problem.”
The America thrust a finger at the camera. “We have wasted enough resources for the World Corps’ plans. We aren’t spending any more time, people, or money for a single man-hunt. He’ll be found, eventually.”
“I’m not asking for a bigger man hunt. I have a proposal.”
The Indian woman asked, “what sort of proposal?”
“We know there isn’t just one, but three safe havens for the criminals of BADGE. The BADGE space station and orbital arena are the primary location. However, they have also hidden people in Neo Utopia and North Onnotangu. From those locations, Nova can orchestrate a retaliation using all the combined heroes and agents of BADGE.”
“Nova wouldn’t do...”
“Have you so quickly forgotten Hollywood, destroyed by a BADGE force? Washington D.C. assaulted by a BADGE led force, Poseidon Island was leveled by BADGE heroes. Pretoria was nearly reduced to rubble. Should I go on? Do you want to wait until more cities are destroyed, more lives are lost?”
The rep from England nodded. “the evidence appears damning. However, what can we do to stop him when we cannot find him?”
A slight, demonic smile crept across Delta’s face. “We have to do to them what they did to you. You have developed the sub-atomic weapons.”
“That is top secret! How do you know...”
“It is still secret enough. I learned it from good sources. These weapons were designed to save this world against a villain like Jinn or Krampus if BADGE failed to stop them. BADGE cannot stop these weapons, or even see them coming, no one can. You have the power to reduce all three safe havens to radioactive ash. Do it, and the future of this world will finally be safe from the evils of Nova.”
“We will...discuss this.”
“You have twenty-four hours. If you fail to give me an answer, I’ll withdraw all my heroes from your countries and there will be nothing to save you from the villains.” He clicked off the comm channel, a look of supreme satisfaction on his face.
Chase stood on a table in the middle of the mess hall of the station. Several dozen leaders of Leagues and other heroes listened to her.
“I know you want to return. The world is a mess right now and we could help. But we must be patient and wise. Nova has a plan...”
“Nova is not here.” Hotwings said.
“I know. And I’m not clear on his plan either. But I know it will work. We must have faith in that. For now, we must sit and wait.”
“I’m through waiting. We’re not controlled by BADGE like those augments with the World Corps. We can go home and do what we do best.” Bartman said with a lot of agreement from the others.
Chase was quiet for a moment and let them murmur until they gave her back their attention. She said, “you’re correct. You’re not programmed automatons of BADGE. You simply listen and obey out of loyalty. BADGE has always kept this world’s best interest at heart, which is a lot more than the World Corps can say. However, instead of vague orders to sit and wait, I offer a compromise. Give this one more day, just twenty-four more hours. If nothing new makes this plan clear, then you’re free to go home. All I would ask then is that you be wise about confronting the World Corps directly. Deal with the local villainy, but don’t push this world into a global war that could be devastating.”
All the league leaders talked to each other and finally it was Hotwings who answered. “Fine, twenty-four hours.”
***
Delta sat in the conference room, those same sour faces on the screen from the United Nations security council.
“Well, what is your decision?” was his greeting to them.
The woman from India spoke without hesitation in her voice, “the answer is no. We will not use the sub-atomic weapons on cities or nations simply to strike at one man.”
The fury in Delta’s eyes was palpable. “You would be so unwise as to not see the opportunity to execute the most dangerous man in history. What if you could use this to kill Jinn before he rose to power, or Krampus, or Hitler? What do you want to tell future generations who will look down in shame knowing the chance at global peace was in their hands and you threw it away out of fear?”
The American said, “it is not fear, Mr. Delta, it is wisdom. We’re not in the business of mass murder simply to hope to kill off one villain.”
The rep from England added, “so far, we still cannot fully corroborate your evidence that BADGE was behind all the attacks you mentioned. Some attacks seemed obvious, but others were more than questionable.”
Delta said, “all the evidence, right in front of your eyes, and you are blind.”
“We aren’t stupid.” The American said.
The French rep said, “also, it is our choice to condemn the World Corps for failing to fulfill their promise of protection and for harboring secret information highly guarded by the United Nations. We will launch a full investigation into how you came about the information about the sub-atomic weapons at our disposal. Such information should not be public knowledge.”
Delta shook with rage, “you...condemn...ME!”
“We do.”
He stood up and glared at them with an odd green color in his eyes. “Then the blood shall be upon your hands.” He cut off the comm signal.
***
Gamma listened to this exchange, cold inside as he realized how close this came to utter destruction of millions of lives. He quickly left the door of the conference room and hurried toward the laboratory.
Slamming open the door, he called out, “Osteen! Where is that data? I want to...Osteen?” He found the lab vacant. The automated lights flickered on at his presence.
“Osteen!” He called into his wrist comm.
Nothing.
A lone computer was active at Osteens’ usual station. Gamma found several files on the screen locked behind coded security. The moment he came close to them, his wrist comm activated, and he was met by the voice of Dr. Osteen. “Sorry to leave you, but this has gotten way too big for me. If Delta is there with you, tell him hi for me. If he is not, just say bugle horn.”
Gamma frowned, “Bugle Horn?”
Those words unlocked the files on the computer. Osteen was clever. He chose this tactic so that Gamma would accidentally open these files only if Delta wasn’t present.
As he looked upon the data, the color in Gamma’s face faded. It was one line after another of stats and results of tests. Simulations ran over and over.
“I have to talk to the others.”
Delta burst through the door of Conference Room B. Gamma sat in the room with Alpha and Beta on separate screens. They were obviously in a deep discussion. A holographic screen hovered in the middle of the room, which was shut off quickly.
“Good. I wanted to see all three of you.”
Alpha coolly said, “coincidentally, we need to talk to you. Sit.”
Delta sat down at the table, a lack of rage in him at her command, which was almost as scary as his fury would be. “I see you must have something terribly important to tell me. First, Gamma, what happened to all the soldiers around this place? Have we forgotten to pay them for their services?”
“I sent them home.” Gamma calmly answered.
“Now, why would you do such a thing?”
Alpha said, “it’s over. Your continued new plans have only driven an excellent scheme into catastrophe. In a matter of days, you have turned the United Nations against us. We had them in our back pocket.”
Beta said, “just moments ago, I got a summons to meet with the United Nations Security Council about a condemnation over illegal actions. They want me to draft an official statement against the World Corps. These are the same people I had convinced to do whatever I wanted them to do.”
“You’ve gone too far,” Gamma added.
Delta hardly made eye contact with them as he examined his fingernails. “It matters very little what the UN thinks of us. Soon, this will all be nothing but a bothersome memory.”
“Why? Because of this.” Gamma turned the holo screen back on.
Delta sat forward and looked at his own private plans. “Oh, I see you have been busy. Digging into files you really shouldn’t see. I told you I had secrets not meant for your eyes.”
Alpha barked, “what is this? You had Dr. Osteen program some kind of secret code into the DNA of the augments. Something that came from your own DNA. What is it? Why are the morphon crystals so important to all of this?”
Beta said, “these simulations show you gaining powers, powers that go beyond anything we can imagine. How, why? What purpose would that serve?”
“That is not for you to know. Even if I explained, you couldn’t possibly understand it.”
“STOP TREATING US LIKE CHILDREN. I DEMAND ANSWERS!” Alpha bellowed.
“You will do what I say when I say it. That is all that matters. That you learned these secrets is hardly concerning. You can’t understand this data. Only that it shows that I am mo
re powerful than you is all that worries you. That is no surprise. I have always been more powerful than you. Now, stop worrying about this, stop yelling at me, and do what I say.”
“And what are you glorious commands, Delta?” Alpha asked.
Delta said, “the United Nations needs to learn genuine fear of me, of the World Corps. We need them cowed like the small children they are. Therefore, Gamma, use the meta-command module on the augments and order them to kill all the world leaders and their families.”
A wave of gasps ran through the three others. Gamma said, “I will do no such thing.”
Delta calmly looked at the others. “Any of you willing to follow this order?”
Beta said, “no. I will not be party to such an act of murder.”
Alpha said, “this ends here and now. I’ll not allow you to do this. The World Corps was always about power and control, but never that depth of depravity. I will turn you over to...to...” she grasped her throat and gagged.
Beta and Gamma were in the same position, gasping for breath, but unable to draw in any air.
Delta stood up from his seat. “Pity. You were such useful idiots. I guess your time is over. As your hearts beat their last pitiful pulses, I remind you that you were given a chip to help keep us connected so that no one would ever be lost. This chip also is a fail-safe against a coup.”
All three fell dead.
Delta took off his glove and pulled out the control mechanism. “Such is the end of all petty tyrants in history.”
Calling up a command screen on the computer, he accessed a special communication protocol. “Delta to all augments across this world. Kill the world leader you have been assigned to, kill their families, kill their staff. Make it as public as possible.”
The main monitor in front of Chase had the horrible events spread across it like a nightmare that simply wouldn’t end. Gray skinned augments flew around, attacking palaces, court houses, homes, planes, and other forms of official transport. Jets attacked the augments, but their firepower was no match for the amplified morphonic abilities of these people.
The man reporting the news spoke in a professional, but sorrow filled tone. “So far, over seventy-eight world leaders have been assassinated in less than six hours. Prime Ministers, judges, governors, and ambassadors are among the dead. We have not received a count yet, but we know that many of these people have had their homes attacked, killing everyone inside. This unprovoked coup, led by World Corps heroes, caught everyone off guard. The same words are ringing from every corner of the world. BADGE save us! Two hours ago, the United Nations officially declared all outstanding warrants against BADGE and their associated heroes nullified and have called for aid from the organization deemed criminal just a few days prior. We at the International News Network also call for BADGE. Please, if you can hear us, Director Nova, we need your heroes.”
Chase cut off the sound and looked back at the people sitting at the stations with the robots, then she looked at Gar. “Come on, everyone, down to the mess, immediately.”
It was a quick rush down through the station to the main hall, where most League leaders were currently waiting for their answer. The ultimatum was given less than a day ago, and they were sure it was time. On tablets, small screens, and mounted televisions, the same horrible news echoed through the halls of BADGE. Heroes stood in stunned silence at the sight of such merciless killing.
Chase pushed through the crowd and stood on a table. She pressed a button on her comm and all the screens went silent.
“Everyone! I’m sure you have heard the news.”
“LET US GO DOWN NOW!” Hotwings demanded.
Chase gave him a nod. “I see no reason...”
There came a great blue flash of light behind her and she knew the color of it as it reflected off everyone’s eyes. Turning, she let out a yelp of joy at the sight of Director Nova, Strange Quark, EB, and an odd man in red armor.
Nova stepped up, giving everyone a surprised look. Finally, he said, “well, what are you waiting for? Save the Earth!”
A jubilant cheering broke out as portals were opened and people rushed back to their duty. Strange Quark joined the transportation and helped zap heroes back down to the planet.
Chase called out, “head for portals and teleporter heroes, don’t use the shuttles. No time. Go, go, go!”
Turning back to Nova, Chase slowly stepped down. She just about said something when EB rushed at her and jumped up, latching on with one of his famous hugs. “I’ve missed you sooooo much. I love Nova, but he’s a stick-in-the-mud. I needed my hot babelicious Chase.”
Chase hugged him back for a moment. “You know, I kinda missed your inappropriate flirting.”
“Dawwww!” He was nuzzling her.
“Okay, enough.” She dropped him.
Nova approached, “I’m so sorry for handing you this job so suddenly. But you kept everything in one piece.”
“All I did was follow your plan. Keep the heroes away from going to war against the World Corps. But...I didn’t know what to do after that.”
Nova said, “you did exactly what you had to. The world stopped trusting us. They turned to another source of protection, not realizing they had gotten into bed with the vipers. What we needed was for the world to see the enemy for who they were. By not engaging the World Corps directly, we gave them enough rope to hang themselves. They expected an all-out war against BADGE, but we didn’t give it to them. Once the world, as a whole, turned back to us and asked for our help, it would be time.”
“But why wait for the world to need us, to call for us? We aren’t always welcome, but we always do our job.”
Nova said, “if we had retaliated when the World Corps wanted us to, we would fight not only them, but the armed forces of their new allied nations, against the forces of the United Nations, against the media, and against public opinion. Now, we have only one enemy, the only true enemy we had from the beginning, the World Corps.”
“So, is this it? Is it now over? There is little chance the World Corps has the manpower to fight the combined forces of BADGE and the military forces of the world,” asked Chase.
The man in the red armor said, “not by a long shot.”
Chase cocked her head at him. “Who are you?”
Nova smiled and said, “pardon me, introductions are in order.”
EB hopped around, “oh, this is sooo cool. He’s...”
The man shoved EB away as he slowly walked toward her. “Chase...it has been so long.”
“Do I know you?” She paused and gave him a closer look. “Wait, I think I do know you. No...it can’t be...but...”
“Yes, Chase, I’m Nova from a distant future.”
“Sir?” She looked at Director Nova.
He nodded, “yes. He and I are the same person, just around 1300 years’ distance between us.”
“How...why...what?” Chase could not form a logical question now.
General Nova huffed, “we don’t have time for all this.”
“Come on, let’s head for operations. We’ll explain everything there.” Director Nova guided them toward the lift. His future self seemed a little misty as he looked around, but hid it as well as he could from them.
***
A large plane billowed smoke from its right engine as two augments attacked it. With one well-placed blast from the enemy, the plane sailed toward the ground near a large brick wall.
A blurry light covered the plane, and it stopped falling from the sky. In the distance, on that brick wall, three people held out hands and cast this telekinetic field to save the plane. A different man held up his hands and ten people flashed next to him, the occupants of the plane. Once they were safe, the plane was allowed to fall to the ground.
The two augments rushed the wall. The moment they got within ten feet of it, everyone quickly covered their heads in foil, including placing the same hats on their rescued people. A little girl holding a small doll looked up and her eyes went inky black. Both augments held their heads and screamed in pain. They turned and raced far away.
A man in uniform met the rescued people. “Welcome to North Onnotangu.”
“Oh, thank you, thank you. I’m General Bigos, head of the Mokash Military. We have the president’s family with us. The president was murdered by…”
“We know. It’s an old story by now. You’re safe here.”
Their new guests were escorted off the protective wall around the nation.
The general knelt down and smiled at the little girl. “You did well. I hope you gave them bad dreams.”
She toyed with her doll. “They will wet their beds for a long time.”
“I hope...”
“Sir, there is someone approaching. He’s running through the trees near the wall.” A man held a hand to his head, sensing this with his powers.
The general looked over the wall. “I see him. Ari, get him up here before we’re attacked by another augment.”
A woman with unnaturally long legs jumped down and grabbed the man and jumped back up. He landed near the general and was wobbly for the trip.
“Welcome to North Onnotangu, who....YOU!”
Dr. Osteen looked at the general. “Hello, I really need to talk to your leader right away.”
Director Nova and Chase stood in front of the main monitor with EB, General Nova, and Gar behind them. On the screen, Hotwings reported in.
Nova asked, “hows it look out there?”
“Not good. The President of the United States and his family have been murdered. Seventeen senators were killed at the same time. The US military was able to smuggle out as many dignitaries as they could.”
Chase asked, “what about the augment assigned to Washington now?”
“We have her on the run. She’s tougher than we expected. She punched Midgard right in the chin and sent him flying. I’ve seen no one do that since the battle with Jinn. I don’t know if we can stop them. These augments are incredibly strong.”
Nova said, “do what you can. As long as you can keep the augments occupied, they aren’t killing innocent people. Take them down if you can, but don’t get you or your team killed in the process.”
“Don’t worry about us. We can handle this. Hotwings out.”
The screen shut off.
General Nova stepped up, “I have word from the seventh battalion. The mechas are on the move in London. They have the augments under control there. The heroes from BADGE are ready for an ambush just outside of the city.”
“Good.”
Gar asked, “what’s a Mecha?”
General Nova answered. “Mecha are robotic suits piloted by humans. In the future, they’re the means that keep the earth safe and the tools for friendly competition...mostly.”
Chase asked, “do you organize them like the Leagues today?”
The General said, “not quite like BADGE. I help organize the mecha armies across many planets in our galaxy. In the future, there are many villains. However, there is one chief villain who has evaded complete destruction, an alien known as Drochah. He can travel in time and has used that to his advantage for as long as we’ve been fighting him and his forces.”
“Is that why time is fractured?” Chase asked.
General Nova said, “yes, and no. You see, however terrible Drochah is, he understood that interrupting the natural flow of time would be of no one’s benefit. It would destroy everything. His travels into the past were always careful and with precise work to keep from interrupting the flow of time. However, he made a terrible choice to abandon that conviction and altered history to his advantage.”
Gar asked, “what did he do?”
“Drochah was once, in the far distant past, the leader of a group you know called Legion. He was deposed by Kruhl and sent out of Legion eons ago. Since then, he has worked to regain his place as the most feared leader in all the known universe. Each time he was defeated, he would jump in time to avoid death. One time, his jump was disastrous, and he ended up stuck in this time period. He disguised himself as a human and took on the name of Delta.”
“Delta’s an alien and member of Legion!?” EB bellowed.
“Don’t yell.” The Director said.
“Sorry.”
The General continued, “yes. He organized the World Corps and used it in an attempt to overthrow this world.”
“So, that is the disruption in time?” Chase asked.
“Not exactly. His coming to the past and becoming Delta were all recorded in history. I remember it clearly. It was a paradox; It happened because it already happened. But something is terribly wrong. In my memory, the battle in Pretoria, South Africa, was their last conflict before being exposed and brought down.”
Gar said, “but, that happened.”
“The battle happened, but what I remember as the outcome and what you remember are two vastly different things. In the real timeline, the attack ended with the revelation to the world that the World Corps was behind everything. When I sent Chase, Gar, and Strange Quark to find the secret base, they found it and they also found the four leaders of the World Corps. Delta revealed himself to be an alien, killed the other three leaders and attacked you. However, he was still in a weakened state and you defeated him. He returned to the future before being killed. Somehow, he was able to jump back into the past and prevent that failure. The world never learned the truths that were uncovered there. Delta continued his plans, and here we are.”
Chase asked, “why are you here? Did you follow him back in time?”
Director Nova answered that. “I have time powers, but I lack the ability to travel in time by will alone.”
General Nova said, “in the future where Drochah is from, he tried one last effort to destroy us and take over Earth. He was so sure of his victory that when defeat came, he went insane. He jumped back into history, his own history, and altered it. That act fractured time. Today those fractures are tiny. By my time, it has utterly broken time. I could ride a wave of disrupted time back, following it to an origin point. I came out too late to stop Drochah from doing what he wanted, but I am still here to help.”
Director Nova added, “apparently some of your mechas were swept away with you, which are out there helping keep this world safe while we look for a way to fix this situation.”
“How do we stop him? He has already broken time.” Chase asked.
EB said, “this is a doozy. We Vexillians have powers to alter time, and that clock thingy is really stinking powerful. But, to fix this mess, I doubt even we could. Specially since it’s only me and Santa right now.”
General Nova said, “I don’t have that answer. But, I know a few things. First, your people are clever and have saved this world more times than you realize. You can find the answer, I know it. I trust it. Second, Drochah’s plans aren’t to destroy time. That was an unfortunate consequence of his insane move to change his failure in the past. He may not even realize how much damage he has caused, nor does he care. Drochah’s goal remains the same as it has always been. Use Earth as a staging ground to rebuild Legion in his image. He wants not to be the emperor over that horrible band of tyrants, he wants to be a god.”
“Why Earth?” EB asked.
“Because the combination of our sun and morphonic energy creates a unique power that cannot be found elsewhere. With it, he can craft powerful creatures that will be unmatched by any around this universe. He will conquer every world, rule every sector, he will place himself as god-king of all that exists.”
“But if he has broken time, then it will destroy him before he can do that.” Gar said.
“No, it won’t. It will take centuries for time to fully collapse. Before that happens, he will craft his new Legion. Time will reach a critical stage and implode. This system and all around it will be sucked into a black hole and time around the rest of the universe will continue normally.”
Chase said, “all this time talk is making my head hurt. I don’t understand.”
EB said, “well, time isn’t just one single line. It’s this wibbly wobbly timey wimey thing.”
“You stole that from Doctor Who.”
“I know, but it makes more sense that you realize.”
Director Nova said, “now we are all up to speed. The next step is to figure out what the next step will be.”
“That’s about as helpful as EB.” Chase said.
“Hey!” EB retorted.
General Nova said, “what we need is an advantage. Something to give us an edge right now to help.”
A robot announced, “Incoming Message: Prime Minister Shizue.”
“Put her through,” both Nova’s announced.
Shizue came on the screen and gave the two Nova’s a funny look. “BADGE. I have someone who is desperate to talk to you.”
The leader of her military yanked a bound and restrained Dr. Osteen in front of the camera. The fat doctor gave them a timid smile. “Hey, there, BADGE. Yeah, so, we need to talk.”
The Operations view screen had North Onnotangu up with Dr. Osteen nervously waited for a response. The only reply he got was nasty looks from everyone in front of him on the station. Even EB was particularly miffed.
Dr. Osteen finally broke the silence. “I know, I know. I’m the last person you expected to see. But if you don’t get me up there now, Delta will find me and skin me alive.”
Director Nova said, “we’ve already been infiltrated by one of your own. Beta pretended to be our ally and then stabbed us in the back. So, you can understand my reluctance to believe anything you say.”
Osteen said, “look, I’m not turning all goody two-shoes here. I’m still out for me. I don’t care if BADGE wins or all the good little people are safe, I just care if I’m safe. I’m not coming to you with any hidden agenda. But I’m coming to you with information you won’t find in a million years. Now, either you believe me, or you let Delta smoke me and lose your last chance.”
Prime Minister Shizue had her people pull Osteen to the side so she could speak. “Look, Director, I have no more reason to trust this monster than you. However, I had a young man with telepathic powers scan Dr. Osteen. We found no lie in him. As far as he’s concerned, he’s telling the truth.”
General Nova said, “we do need information.”
Director Nova pointed at Gar. “Go get Craig and bring him up here.”
“Sure thing.” Gar ran off.
Nova then said, “Strange Quark!”
In a blue flash, Quark appeared with a bottle of brandy up to his mouth. He swallowed and said, “what’s up?”
“I need you to zap Dr. Osteen from Onnotangu to us, right here.”
“Oh, sure. First...” Quark snapped his fingers, and a bucket appeared next to him.
EB asked, “what’s that for?”
“You’ll see.” Quark smiled and then snapped his fingers again.
In a great flash of blue light, Dr. Osteen appeared right next to Quark with a briefcase clutched in his cuffed hands. He was confused for a second and then turned green, bent over, and hurled into the bucket.
“Ew,” was EB’s answer to that.
Nova said. “Thanks, Quark. You can get back to work.”
Quark said. “I’m helping fight these augments in Africa. They are...different. So strong.”
“Do what you can.” Nova said and Quark vanished away.
Osteen staggered back up and wiped his mouth. “That was horrible.”
“Teleportation at that distance in an instant will cause some discomfort.” Director Nova casually stated.
Osteen gave him a stinky look, knowing that was planned. “Fine, you had your fun. Are you going to listen to me?”
Nova pulled out his gun, but merely held it at his side. “Sure. I hope, for your sake, you have something worth listening to.”
“I do. No need to flash the weapons. Here,” Osteen shoved the briefcase at Chase. “I printed off as much as I could. Couldn’t risk downloading it to anything, they might hack it and delete the files. These people have incredible control over things. Anyway, those files are full of data that scared the crap outta me.”
Chase plopped the case on a table and opened it. She pulled out the paperwork. “It’s all calculations and graphs. This is complicated.”
“Of course it is, idiot. That’s some high-level science work.”
Chase held out her hand as a blade appeared. “Want to call me names again?”
“Look. Here’s the deal. I helped develop the augmentation program for the World Corps. In fact, I crafted the idea before I met them. Delta had research they already completed that I combined with mine and together we could perfect the augmentation. Using morphonic inclined people, we could...”
Director Nova interrupted, “we know how it worked. You kidnapped people who could harness morphons for powers, modified them, and turned them into living weapons.”
“Yeah, that’s the gist of it.” Osteen stated, seemingly uncaring that he had just admitted to mass murder. “Anyway, things were going pretty good. The augments were what they wanted. I had achieved my goals, and I was about to be richer than Midas.”
Chase asked, “so...why turn against them? Sounds like you were sitting pretty.”
“Gamma asked me to do some digging. I thought it would be fun hacking into the files they didn’t want me to see. But what I found scared me to death. Delta gave me instructions to include certain coding into the augmented DNA. I couldn’t understand it at the time and didn’t think to question it. When I looked into his files, I discovered the dirty truth. The augments are merely a part of a larger plot. They can absorb morphon energy and are continually growing stronger. Delta has a plan to use them to craft something horrible.”
Chase pulled out a sheet of paper and handed it to Nova. “I think I found what you’re talking about.”
Both Nova’s looked at the paper. “Neutral Morphon Core?”
Osteen explained, “as much as black is the combination of all visible colors, this Neutral Core is the combination of all frequencies of morphons. This core would be weak to none, strong against all. It will be able to nullify all others, making it completely resistant. Whatever used this would be unstoppable.”
Nova asked, “so, why would this worry you? Your boss would become supreme.”
“Sounds pretty cool, and I was okay with that. But then I found his master plan. His ultimate phase of all of this isn’t crafting the core, it’s eradicating all life on Earth. He means to exterminate every living thing on this planet. I do not know why, but I know I have given him the power to do this. I don’t want to die.”
“So, you’re just here to save your sorry hide.” EB muttered.
“Yeah, so?” Osteen retorted.
General Nova said, “this is exactly what Drochah wanted all along. Creating a supreme being of power and then using this planet as his base for the next Legion. I did not realize how close he was to that goal. We are on the cusp of extinction.”
“We have to stop him.” EB said.
“That is obvious.” Director Nova replied.
Osteen smiled, “that is where I come in. I have an idea that just might work. My anti-morphon technology could be changed to weaken a foe who is using a neutral core. But I need the labs and tech to craft these weapons.”
“We are not creating hero murdering guns!” Chase stated.
“Look, I don’t want to vaporize heroes. My anti-morphon guns wouldn’t be able to harm a neutral hero like that, anyway. He will be too powerful. But, I can use the same tech to build something new. Unless you still don’t trust me. In that case, we’re all doomed.”
“I don’t trust you,” Director Nova said. “But we have little choice but to work with you.”
“Good. Just point me to the lab and...”
“Not so fast.”
Just then, Gar came in with Craig. “Found him in the arboretum.”
“I want to help.” Craig said.
“Good, I have a job for you. Take our friend here and watch him like a hawk. We’ve sent all our agents and heroes down to stop the augments mass assassinations. You, and a team of our scientists, will work with him. If he steps one foot out of line, you’re ordered to take him down.”
Craig looked at Osteen and his face changed, his eye twitched and he balled one hand into a tight fist. “This...this...JACKASS! What...he...he is the one who...”
“We know who he is. Contain your rage, he just might be our only hope right now.” Director Nova said.
Osteen smiled, “oh, if it isn’t pretty boy. I see you’re still sporting some of my special enhancements.”
Craig grabbed him by his collar and pulled him nose to nose. “If you want to see any of my enhancements in action, just push me one inch. I dare you.”
“Enough.” Nova said. “Take him to the lab. I’ll inform Dr. Henderson to get a staff ready for you. And, remember, Osteen, you’re guilty of so many crimes, firing you into the sun is fully permitted to me.”
“You’re kidding...right? He’s kidding?” Osteen was shoved along.
“Move!” Craig forced him into the lift.
Standing on a rooftop, Furious Squirrel used both of his steampunk laser pistols to shoot at the augment flying through downtown Detroit.
“On your right!” A voice came through Furious’s earpiece.
Taking a flying leap off of the Cobo Center rooftop, Furious was grabbed by Captain Ultra as he flew low. “I can hit him, but it doesn’t do much good!”
Captain Ultra said, “don’t stop! Try to annoy him.”
Furious shot at the augment with abandon, hitting him as many times as he could.
“He’s gonna get to the plane before the governor can get away!” Furious yelled.
Suddenly, the augment they were chasing bounced off a large, invisible barrier near the airport. He flew back, crashing into trees and skidding across the ground.
Furious and Captain Ultra landed near the fallen augment. Rysh appeared near them, a smile on his face. “Thought that barrier would do the trick.”
Bartman skateboarded over to them and pointed at the sky. “She’s in the air.” A jumbo jet took off.
“Good, now we...” Furious stopped and looked at the ground near them. “The crystals?”
They looked over as a patch of freshly grown crystals slowly evaporated into dust, the power in them flowing into the augment.
“This can’t be good.” Bartman said.
The eyes of the augment flew open, and he screamed. A wave of power blasted out and threw all four heroes away. Launching off the ground at supersonic speeds, the augment hit the plane and bisected it in one slice. The fuselage broke in half and both parts fell to the earth, a trailing black smoke following them.
Furious sat up, gathering his wits. The explosion of the plane hitting the ground shook him even at this distance. “What just happened?”
Captain Ultra stood up and brushed himself off. “We failed, that’s what happened. Come on, we have to find that augment before he kills again. MOVE!”
Furious pressed his comm unit, “BADGE, something crazy just happened.”
***
A little smile plays on the lips of Delta as he watches his glorious augments murder. The news from all corners of the planet provided him a wonderful display. In a strange moment for him, he let out a laugh when one of his augments punched a BADGE hero right through a mountain.
Flicking off the mute button, he listened to a report from England. “The royal family has all been killed. Only the Duchess remains and she is being protected by twenty of BADGES finest. This is a dark day for the United Kingdom as it is for many, many other nations. In better news, we are receiving reports that some of the augmented heroes from the World Corps are showing erratic actions and are struggling to keep fighting. For whatever reason these people are acting strange, it is unclear. However, this presents a tactical shift that might help bring this war of heroes to a close. We turn...”
A red light blinked on the wall and Delta clicked off the monitors. He strolled out of the room, stepped over the bodies of the mercs he killed in the hallways, and headed for the landing platform. He stepped out and found three augments waiting for him. They twitched, groaned, and had crackling energy crawling over their bodies.
“Ah, my children have returned. Good.”
The woman looked at him with fear in her eyes. “What...have I...become...”
The man next to her grabbed his face. “I...I was in a car...then...I don’t remember. What is happening to me?”
Delta stood in front of them again. “You are what you were meant to be all along. My source of power. Come, I shall end your pain.”
Holding out his arms, the energy in their bodies turned to a find mist. They screeched and screamed in agony, but it fell on deaf ears. Gathering this energy in front of him, he held it aloft between his hands. Once the last ounce was extracted, all three fell dead at his feet.
“So...it begins.”
***
Nova, Nova, and Chase listened to Furious Squirrel give his report about the augment absorbing the crystals.
“Thanks. Keep fighting the augments.” Director Nova said, “we’ve received a dozen reports in the past few hours of this. They gain power, but then lose control. Keep them occupied. We need these assassinations minimized.”
“Will do. Furious out.”
Chase asked, “why are the augments absorbing the energy from the newly grown crystals?”
Director Nova said, “Osteen said that the augments absorbed morphonic energy, and we learned the crystals are created by morphons, so it makes some sense. Why they are surging in power and then losing control is still unclear.”
General Nova said, “Osteen also said that the augments were just a part of Delta’s plan to craft this neutral core. What if...what if...” He walked over to the computer and began working.
“What if...what?” Chase asked.
“Give me a sec. Damn...this is bad.”
Director Nova came over and looked at the screen. “You’re doing a morphon level scan?”
“Yes, and it shows the particles per million in the atmosphere have dropped by ninety-five percent.”
“What does that mean?” Chase asked.
Director Nova pressed his comm, “Doctor Henderson, activate your screen.”
A small window on the main monitor opened up with her. “Yes? We have little to report yet, Osteen...”
“THAT’S DOCTOR OSTEEN!” he yelled from off camera.
“Fine, Doctor Osteen is just beginning.”
“That’s not what I have to ask you. I’m sending you some current scan data and information. What do you think?”
She looked down at another screen, her brow furrowing. “Morphons down ninety-five percent...the crystals, wait the crystals are absorbing high quantities of the morphons from the atmosphere.”
“Doctor, something about this is affecting the augments, and I want to know why.”
“Lemme see.” Osteen nearly shoved her out of the way. “Oh, crappola! Yup, this is part of my work. The crystals were formed by corrupted morphon energy dispersion. The fast-growing crystals were all made of corrupt morphons. Too unstable for human bodies, but totally safe to make fast growing crystals.”
“Good to know.” Nova said. “Why is it causing the augments to act strange?”
Both doctors looked over the data. Henderson reported, “it seems their bodies are absorbing only the fast growing crystal energy. It’s overwhelming their system. Too much power.”
“Oh, monkey spit!” Osteen blurted out. “I see it now! The augments are batteries. Delta is using them to absorb the energy. Morphons act differently when they come in contact with a living conduit. Just sucking them out of the air won’t make them useful, but gathering them and then forcing them into the augments is like feeding grass to a cow, you get milk. He’s milking them. But this process would kill them.”
“Why is he taking this energy?” The General asked.
“Dunno. Most likely to make his neutral core. He’s either gonna make another augment and turn it into some kind of super-super being, or...I don’t know. But if we are at this stage, he’s getting really close to completion.”
“We’re running out of time. Osteen, Henderson, work fast.”
“On it.” He gave a bad salute and shut off the signal before she could answer.
“Please let me punch that jerk when this is all over.” Chase muttered.
“Gar, I need you...” Nova turned to the oddly silent man standing behind them.
Gar was frozen as though he had reverted to a statue again. General Nova walked over and touched his arm. “Gar...”
Gar’s body flickered. He looked at General Nova. “General, good. I need to tell...it is...time is...broken. Drochah...Drochah...across time...mecha army too powerful.” Gar stopped moving for a second and this his body returned to normal. He looked around, “what, why are you looking at me like that?”
The city of Toronto is vacant, having been evacuated less than twenty-four hours ago. The three augments assigned to the Canadian Capital cannot fulfill their master’s wishes as the hero League, Hydra, keeps them occupied in a fierce battle.
“We have one down!” Martial Law announced over the comm channel.
The Gentleman answered, “the female augment is coming down Yonge Street. I’m gonna take her down, get some hero support over here to watch her.”
“On it!” Martial Law barked orders into the comm for the other heroes.
The Gentleman listened from around a corner. The sound of a high-pitched whistle rang in his ear. The augmented woman zipped by, flying so fast that she almost broke the sound barrier. He stepped out and clotheslined her mid-flight. She flipped over and over in the air and crashed into a corner bistro, destroying half the building.
The Gentleman held his arm, “Gah! That hurt! I hope she took that in the face! Man!” He clicked on his comm, “I have her. She just plowed into Maple Jacks Bistro. I’ll keep her down!”
“On our way!”
He took a timid step over the rubble, ready for a good fight. “Hey, sister, where are ya?”
The sound of moaning and some rubble being moved caught his attention.
She pushed aside the debris and stood up in the middle of the wreckage. Her body quaked and energy spiked all over her skin. She looked at The Gentleman with desperation in her eyes.
“Please...help me...I hurt!”
“What the?” He wasn’t sure how to handle this.
Death Ape, Martial Law, and Tri-blade arrive just then, equally ready for a fight.
The energy all over her body turned vibrant. She held her head, screaming. All at once, the energy flowed free of her and she crashed to the ground.
Tri-blade rushed over and checked her. “She’s dead.”
“I didn’t mean to kill her.” The Gentleman whispered.
Tri-blade said, “I don’t think you did.”
“No, you didn’t. I just got word from the others. Both the other augments just lost all their energy and died at the same time.”
“What the hell is going on?” Deathape asked.
“I don’t have a clue.” Martial Law said, “better tell BADGE.”
***
“I don’t know what you’re talking about. I listened to Old Nova say something about morphons in the air and then I was standing there with all you guys looking at me.” Gar said.
General Nova said, “you were touched by time. Something happened to you, but I don’t know what.”
Chase asked, “could it have something to do with the time fractures? Maybe he was reliving something from the past.”
“Couldn’t have.” Director Nova said, “he mentioned Mecha’s and Drochah, neither of which has Gar had any experience with before now.”
EB zipped into the room and jumped up on a console. “You guys better come down to the arboretum, like now.”
“What is it?” Director Nova asked.
“Santa is here, and he brought friends. Come on.” EB zipped away so fast that no one could see where he went.
“I miss that little guy.” The General said.
Director Nova asked, “you want to bring him back to the future when you go?”
“Ha, you say that. But, he really is your best friend. You’ll come to understand that one day. For now, let’s find out what Santa has to say.”
Everyone headed down to the arboretum to find Santa standing with Rutkowski, Peyton, and Father Time. What surprised both Nova’s the most was that Santa currently held the powerful clock that Father Time desires so greatly.
“Santa, care to explain?” Director Nova said.
“Of course. Oh, good, you brought Gar with you.”
“Me?”
“Yes. This is about you. About an hour ago, we all felt something in time. Something came backward in time.”
Chase said, “time is fractured all over the place, or so I’ve been told. What is strange about this one incident?”
Father Time said, “because, it was on purpose. Someone has created a tether between two time periods.”
“Tether?” Nova asked.
“Someone has tapped into the fractured time and used a stable point in both the future and past that is connected. This requires something extremely powerful that exists in both times. Through this link, the future is trying to communicate with the past. But this is an extremely delicate and difficult process.”
“Wait, Gar, you were talking about things from the future. You are the link.” Chase said.
Peyton nodded, “Santa quickly gathered us and we all agreed it had to be Gar. He is timeless and his core that gives him life is extremely powerful. He is both touched by magic and morphons. Thus, he is a perfect conduit.”
Gar frowned, “huh?”
Rutkowski huffed and explained in his usual eloquence, “theys saying you’re a time-telephone. Someone is try’n ta ring the past up and you’re da answering machine. Capice?”
“No.”
Nova put a hand on Gar’s arm to stop him from asking more questions. “So, what is the message?”
“We don’t know,” Santa said. “That’s why we’re here. Using the clock and our combined powers, we can try to stabilize the link and get the message clearly.”
Father Time said, “for someone to do this must mean that it’s of vital importance.”
Gar looked at Director Nova. “Do we trust the mob boss and Father Time?”
Nova looked at them and then slowly nodded, “they may be despicable criminals...”
“Hey!” Rutkowski took offense.
“But even they don’t want to see our world annihilated. We can trust them.”
EB hopped up, “besides! If they try anything, you got us right here.”
Director Nova said, “we need information. We need to know what the future is trying to tell us.”
“Okay. I’ll do it.”
Nova’s comm beeped. “Nova here.”
A robot announced, “You have one hundred and fifty-eight messages coming from Earth.”
“Talk about timing. Okay, Chase, you stay here with Gar and monitor this. We’ll head back to operations and find out what is going on.”
Director and General Nova left them with their work.
“Report!” Nova barked the moment he got into Operations.
Dozens of small screens were open on the monitor. Heroes all talked at the same time, but then stopped when they heard the cacophony.
“Robot, mute the others. Just put Krystal Fae through.” Nova pointed at one of the little windows.
Krystal’s window opened up. “Sir, all the heroes I’m working with are reporting the same thing. The augments are...dissolving. Well, not fully. Their power is evaporating and then they just up and die.”
Nova looked around the screen, “is that what everyone is reporting?” People nodded.
General Nova walked over to the computer station to the side. “I’m reading a massive buildup of morphonic energy in the middle of the ocean.”
Nova said, “that must be where he is gathering the power. All heroes, get to a BADGE center and be ready to receive special equipment. The moment you have it, you are to head to those coordinates.”
Krystal asked, “what special equipment?”
“Something you’re going to need to battle this. Get moving. Nova out.”
General Nova said, “if Drochah is moving to the last stage of his plan...”
“Then the next step is total eradication of life on Earth. I know, we’re running out of time.”
Nova and Nova walked into the laboratory. Craig sat in a chair in the corner, glaring at Osteen. A team of scientist buzzed around him, working on equipment.
“Tell me you have something.” Director Nova said.
Osteen smiled, “of course. I’m the most brilliant scientist on Earth.”
“That’s debatable,” Dr. Henderson stated.
“What do you have?” Nova insisted.
Osteen swiveled in his chair and picked up a mechanical glove. “Okay, this is one of three pieces of equipment. This is the Neutralizer Glove. It focuses the users’ powers while neutralizing the specific morphon, giving the hero strength. You punch with this, it will still deliver a massive blow that can put a hole in a mountain, but it won’t register as a strength type morphon hit. Oh, and this,” he put the glove down and picked up a visor, “neutralizing eye beam emitter. Same type of stuff, use laser eyes and will do damage without registering. And there’s this, “ he picked up a boot, “same thing. Kicking will work the same.”
“Good. How fast can we replicate this stuff?” Nova asked Dr. Henderson.
She checked her tablet. “My team is inputting the data into the atomic-3d printer program now. All our locations across the planet will begin printing these items. We can put out at least a hundred an hour at max capacity.”
“Get them going as soon as possible. The moment you start printing, signal all bases. The heroes are already waiting for them.”
“I’ll do what I can.”
Nova turned, “I’ll be in the arboretum if you need me.”
“Mr. Nova.” Osteen stopped him.
“Yes?”
“I was hoping this might help me not be in so much trouble. I mean, I know the moment all this is over, I’m going back to prison. Perhaps you can put a good word in for me doing all this to save this world.”
Nova said, “this world is in danger because of you. Many lives have already been lost because of you. I promise, there aren’t enough good words or favors anyone can do for you now. All I can offer is perhaps I might convince them to not execute you...but I make no promises.”
Without another word, Nova and Nova left the lab.
Santa held the clock aloft with his magic while the others focused their power. Gar stood in the middle, an odd aura of energy emanating from him. When he turned his head or moved a wing, there was a delayed shadow of himself. He was not moving in regular time.
Nova approached this scene. “Well?”
Chase, not part of the process, answered, “I don’t know. They’re trying to reconnect, but Gar hasn’t begun speaking about the future.”
General Nova watched this next to his counterpart. “If my people found a way to communicate backwards, we have to know what they need to tell us.”
Director Nova nodded. “If they know the outcome of our plan, and are either warning us or telling us what worked, we need to know.”
Suddenly, Gar looked directly at General Nova. “General...”
Santa said, “he is making a connection to you. Go to him before it is broken.”
General Nova walked over to Gar and reached out. “What is it? What do you need to tell me?”
Gar quickly reached out and took Nova by the arms, holding him tight. Both of their bodies phased in time.
General Nova stood in a realm of energy and light. In front of him was Gar.
“Where am I? What is this place?”
Gar looked at him with a happier face. “General Nova. Is this the past?”
Nova nodded, “you are in my past. Wait...” he looked at Gar deeper, “you are different.”
“I was sent to tell you something important that will save the future.”
“Why? What has happened?”
Gar strained as he faded for a moment. “This won’t last much longer. Drochah and his legions are fighting the mechas while he is fighting the heroes. The battle is crossing all time. They said that time is falling in, but I don’t understand. Gah!” Gar faded completely and then returned. “I’m slipping back into the future. I have to tell you what must be done. He can be stopped, but only in the future. But, you must bring with you the six, only they can take away his heart. Bring us the six...it is the only...” Gar faded completely.
General Nova opened his eyes, and he was once again in the Arboretum. He stood before Gar, who was now not phasing in and out of time.
Gar asked, “what just happened? I was here, but then I was in a scary place where big robots were fighting and something was cracking the sky. I couldn’t understand it.”
Santa wiped the sweat from his brow. “You exchanged places with your future self.”
Father Time added, “someone had to make direct contact and be pulled into the time slipstream, otherwise, he couldn’t communicate.”
“Boy, I gotta headache. Any of you bums got a powder?” Rutkowski sat on the grass and held his head.
“Chase, escort Rutkowski and Peyton down to Medlab 1. They can give them something for the pain.” Nova ordered.
Santa asked, “did it work? Did you get their message?”
General Nova nodded, “yes. Drochah is in the future, fighting the Mecha armies. He has broken time to a critical point. Time is about to collapse into a black hole...if I interpreted the information correctly.”
“If he is there, does he leave this time for the future?” Director Nova asked.
“No. His power is great, his control over time even greater than I imagined. I know now what he plans on doing. The core is not meant for an augment or some other creation, it is meant for him. He will put it in himself and become godlike. With that kind of power, amplifying his already powerful control over time-travel. He’ll break time and be in both time frames.”
Father Time said, “that makes sense. However, since time is already fractured and changing, it is possible to interrupt his plans still.”
“The only way we can stop him is to take away his power. Gar from the future gave me a clue about that. Drochah must have his power ripped out of him completely.” General Nova said.
“How?” Director Nova asked.
The General said, “Gar said something about the six. These six can tear his heart out. Do you have any idea what he is talking about?”
“Yes, I do.”
Director Nova quietly stood in front of the six holding units containing the six avatars. Each in a state of suspended animation. A soft beeping echoed around him from the system set up to monitor their life signs.
EB hopped in with Chase beside him. EB said, “heroes are picking up their neutral weapons from the BADGE locations.”
“Good. Let’s hope it’ll work.”
Chase asked, “do you really think these are the six people Gar was talking about?”
Nova said, “they have to be. It makes perfect sense. The neutral core was crafted by knowledge gained from the cores stolen out of these creatures. If we can revive them, they may stop him.”
“How do we revive them?” asked EB.
Just then, General Nova, Dr. Henderson, and a disgruntled Dr. Osteen walked into the lab.
The General said, “I wager these people would have an idea about that.”
Osteen complained, “I did what I said I’d do, designed those neutral weapons. I was busy playing Warcrafter. This jerk just yanked my headset right out of the computer.”
Nova gave Osteen an icy stare and then turned to Dr. Henderson. “Are we sure these Avatars are still alive? They have been away from their cores for a long time.”
Dr. Henderson checked the monitoring system. “As far as I can tell, there are still signs of life in them. They aren’t alive like a human, they are more like Gar, a constructed thing with a living energy in them to make them alive. We are still reading traces of that energy in them. I could be wrong, but I would say they are still alive enough to bring around…if there is a way.”
Dr. Osteen asked, “so, why worry about these things? They can’t do much like this.”
Nova slowly turned and looked at Osteen. “These six avatars are mankind’s last, best hope for survival. Without their help, time will utterly annihilate this solar system. You, Doctor, were the one who figured out how to extract the core of these avatars. You know where they are currently stored. And, hopefully, you know how to restore them.”
Osteen looked at the sleeping avatars. “I don’t need to restore them. Just freeing their cores will cause them to join with their bodies. We had a hell of a time figuring out how to keep their cores from trying to reabsorb into them. If I tell you how to find them, will this reduce my prison sentence? I’ll only keep working for you if you can promise...”
Nova grabbed him by his collar and yanked him up to his face. “THIS ISN’T ABOUT SAVING YOUR SORRY ASS FROM PRISON! THIS IS ABOUT STOPPING A MADMAN FROM WIPING THIS SOLAR SYSTEM FROM EXISTENCE AND THEN RETURNING LEGION TO POWER!”
“Alright, alright, I’ll do it. Don’t get so angry! Sheesh!”
Nova dropped the fat doctor. “We need to know where the cores are?”
“The base you guys are currently attacking. They’re inside there, inside my lab where I created the augments.”
Nova left the room with the others. No more words to be said to this criminal. EB hopped over and handed Osteen a colorfully wrapped egg. “Here, no hard feelings.”
“Oh, uh, thanks.”
EB hopped away, snickering.
Chase walked by and grabbed the egg. “Don’t eat that. He filled it with deathpepper puree.”
***
Krystal Fae hovered in the sky above the waters in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. All around, other heroes waited for orders. Many were readying their newly acquired neutral gear.
“I see nothing?” Hotwings flew by.
Krystal said, “we know he has to be here. The energy spike here is too big to be natural.”
A hero blasted up out of the waters, his body mostly a slithering blue eel's tail. He held himself aloft in the air, swimming as much as he would in the water. “No sign of any structure under the water. The fish down there have seen nothing.”
A giant Midgard came stomping through the ocean. “WHERE IS MY PREY!?”
Hotwings laughed, “you look like Godzilla.”
“DON’T COMPARE ME TO AMATEURS!”
Strange Quark appeared next to Krystal. “I can see it. The base is right in front of us. There’s a forcefield surrounding it that is phased a millisecond outside of normal time, which keeps it out of our reach.”
“What can we do about that?”
Quark laughed, “this.” He lifted his arms, and a bubble of energy appeared in the air, buzzing and crackling. A large platform with a building on it appeared inside. “There, destroy the barrier!”
Midgard cracked his considerable knuckles. “WITH PLEASURE!” He reached back and smashed it over and over.
Heroes blasted it and punched it. In moments, the field broke, and the base appeared right in front of them. Above it, a mist of gray energy streamed into it like smoke reversing down a chimney.
Krystal clicked her comm. “Alright, people, you have one job, find and take down Delta. Quark and I must get to the cores. MOVE!”
Heroes entered the compound at every entry point they could find, or simply smashed a hole in a wall. Midgard shrunk down and joined them at a human level. He had wanted to simply destroy the entire base in one shot, but even he knew they needed to see Delta’s body floating dead in the water before they could assume this was over.
The base was deep, going down into the ocean at a great depth. They found countless dead bodies of augments who had been extinguished like all the others. In deeper hallways, they found dead mercs murdered in cold blood. It was a stinking morgue, not a secret base.
Krystal and Quark ran deeper than the others, both following the scent of the morphon cores.
“This way, I can smell the pure morphons.” Quark said.
Krystal had an energy coming from her hands providing some light. “Osteen said they would be in his lab, which would likely be in a highly protected location, deep in this place.”
“There! I see them behind locked doors. That must be his lab!” Quark pointed down to the end of a hall.
Blasting open the sealed doors, both entered the horrible lab where the augments were birthed. The many bio-tubes that once held these poor victims were empty. The vast computer systems to process this were all dark. A clear tank held the six cores, each floating freely.
However, none of this caught their attention first. Delta stood in the middle of the room, smiling at them. In his hands, he held a gray glowing orb that was absorbing the misty energy.
“Welcome to hell.” was his greeting and the next second was a blinding blast of light, hot wind, and debris. Krystal and Quark were caught in an explosion that destroyed the entire base.
Krystal gagged and coughed as she woke, floating on the surface of the ocean. Heroes around her were just as disoriented and scattered. Wreckage from the base was strewn as far as the eye could see. Hovering above them, holding that orb aloft in his hands, was Delta. His face and body had changed. The normal suit he wore was gone, just a pair of pants like the augments wore and nothing else. His body was greenish yellow with scales. His face was even more alien, with a ridge of thicker scales on his bald head. His ears had tree spikes growing along them, and his eyes were a bright green.
Krystal whispered, “who are you?”
He heard her as he answered, “the face I am proud to finally reveal is the face of your doom. I am Drochah oh-Thyehgr, one of the Forerunners, former leader of Legion, and future god of all creation. In moments, I shall have the power to end life on this pitiful world and begin anew.”
“LIKE HELL!” Midgard grew to an enormous size and took a swing at the small Drochah. Other heroes came up out of the waters and went in for the kill.
Drochah held out the orb and a wave of energies in six different colors spread out. The heroes were thrust back into the waters and even Midgard stumbled back.
“Pathetic.” Drochah declared, and then sped away.
Krystal yelled, “stop him! He’s not finished. You must stop him before he completes that thing!”
A great cacophony of splashing and sonic booms came as the heroes raced after the enemy.
Quark came floating by as a blue duck. “So, Delta turned into an ugly green alien…who’ve guessed?”
Krystal lifted out of the water and looked around. “The cores?”
Quark tilted his duck head toward the water. “See for yourself.”
Both watched as six colored lights rose from the depths and breached the surface. They sped faster and faster upward, heading for the distant atmosphere.
Quark said, “they’re going home.”
Krystal tightened her fists. “Let’s hope it isn’t too late. Come on.” She zipped away, heading for the battle.
Fires burned in cities along a line from Yokohama, Japan, to Daegu, South Korea. Air raid sirens blared across Seoul. Citizens ran for cover, not sure what was coming next. Some yelled about more augments possibly attacking, while others were worried that the World Corps was sending in Mercs.
Krystal Fae flew as fast as she could, along with the other fastest fliers of the BADGE heroes. They were leaving the slower heroes far behind, but they could hardly even see Drochah in the distance.
“He’s heading for Seoul!” Nova said over the comm.
“We’re trying to intercept, but I doubt we’ll arrive in time.”
“Do something. That city has ten million people in it.” Nova said.
Sunspark flew up hard next to Krystal. “That monster is going to murder millions if we don’t stop this. I’m going in. Make sure I don’t die in vain.”
This caught her by surprise. “Wait...what?”
Sunspark charged his body until he was glowing as bright as a star. He shot off at near light speed, casting amazing sonic booms in his wake. He met Drochah mid-air and plowed the villain into the earth. The explosion from the impact shattered the land for miles and sent a massive cloud of dust and debris into the atmosphere.
The flying heroes were all stunned, knowing that Sunspark had just killed himself to stop Drochah. Finally, Quark came through the comm, “don’t slow down. Get to him, make sure he got Drochah!”
When they reached the crater, they found a single person standing at the epicenter. Drochah was glowing bright yellow with that orb in his chest as though someone had shoved it into his body. Flames burned at the edges and no remains of Sunspark were to be found.
The heroes raced toward him, ready to fight, but he merely held up his hand and the heroes were stopped. In a single, effortless motion, he slapped everyone to the ground.
“It is finished, my core complete. I am god. Whatever you thought you were before, you now are nothing but insects.” His body grew in size, dwarfing even Midgard at his greatest.
Krystal Fae had dirt in her mouth and her nose pushed against the solid ground. Next to her lay Strange Quark. His body flashed odd shades of blue, fading in and out of this reality.
“Krystal....I...I have to stop him.” Quark said.
She pushed her arm over to him. “You can’t, no one can. He is...too strong.”
“I can. Just...tell Gar...he was my best friend, and he needs to tell...Chase...the truth...”
“No, don’t do it.” Krystal had tears in her eyes.
Quark screamed as he ripped something off of him, peeling away Drochah’s power. He grew in size, his body swimming with colors and lights.
“What’s this? Some pathetic little mortal wishes to challenge me?” Drochah looked Quark in the eye, seemingly amused.
Quark shoved his hands right into Drochah’s chest, attempting to rip out that orb. He screamed and had actual tears in his eyes as his own power was being shredded.
Drochah put his hands on Quark’s neck to rip his throat out. Both of them phased in and out of reality. The heroes on the ground slowly regained control of themselves.
Suddenly, Drochah lurched back as Quark almost pulled the orb out. Drochah jammed his hands into Quark’s chest and ripped his body in half. Quark screamed and turned a bright shade of blue that exploded in a beam of light. Somehow, Quark had used his own body, even in that state, to emit one last beam of strange quantum energy.
Drochah was thrown back, crashing through a broken hole in the air. He fell into another place...or really, another time. The heroes rushed in to finish him. As they reached the rip in the sky, they passed into the future.
***
Moments before:
Nova walked into the largest medical laboratory on the station. The six Avatars lay on beds around the room. Dr. Henderson and Dr. Osteen checked data in a computer station.
“Report?”
Dr. Henderson turned to him. “Sir, the Avatars regained their cores a short time ago. All of them are showing immediate signs of life.”
“Good. How soon will they be able to join the battle?”
“Give em a month or two.” Osteen crassly stated.
Dr. Henderson said, “sir, they are extremely weak. I was worried about this. They were in suspended animation for months, their energy reduced to almost death. Recovering from that will be a slow process. I don’t see how they will stand up today, let along actually fight anyone.”
“Find a way, Doctor. Our enemy is making his ultimate move.”
Father Time appeared next to Nova. “Our enemy has made his move and we are out of time.”
Nova was more than shocked to see this villain appear next to him. Then he turned to find EB, Santa, and Rutkowski in the room. “What’s going on?”
EB said, “you need to see this.”
Nova raced back to Operations, where he found the General watching the screens. The view of Earth was unbelievable. Time was falling apart. A great hole hung in the skies near China. From it, fractures were forming in time, shredding the planet.
“What happened?” Nova demanded.
General Nova said, “Drochah gained full power, but Quark tried to stop him. Their unstable energies caused a rift in time. Drochah has fallen back into the future through that rift and your heroes have followed to stop him.”
“What happened to Quark?” Nova whispered.
EB sniffed, “he didn’t make it.”
General Nova said, “Drochah ripped him apart. His power...is...is unbelievable.”
EB said, “but we still have our weapons. The six can stop him, right?”
Director Nova shook his head. “They’re too weak. They can’t go out there like this. They are going to need help even standing.”
General Nova turned with a shot and said, “that’s it! That’s the answer!”
“What is?” Director Nova asked.
The General said, “Gar from the future said several things. First, the six are our answer. However, he also said the battle would take place in the future. I didn’t understand that until now. They knew Drochah would end up there. That’s where he must be defeated.”
Father Time, standing with Santa and Rutkowski, said, “it is true. Drochah is tied to the future, that is where he is from, and where he started this time disaster. If he is defeated there, then time might fix itself, might return to the point before he broke it. We must travel to the future to stop him.”
Director Nova said, “but the avatars...”
“Are still the key.” The General interrupted. “You say they can’t hardly stand right now. What you need is the ability to give them legs. I just happen to have the technology to put them in mechs, give them strength, and put them in the battle. That must be it, that has to be it.”
Director Nova turned to Santa, who once was a great general of his people. “Is this a good plan?”
“I believe it is our only hope. There is just one issue you might not like.”
“What?”
Father Time stepped up. “ We cannot simply go through that rip in time to the future with the avatars. We would be thrust right into the battle with Drochah. We must create an alternate rift to travel through. I am the most proficient among us at time travel. But I need the clock you took from me.”
Nova stepped over to Father Time. “I agree. I don’t like this. But I know it is our only choice. I also trust that even while you have evil intentions for that clock...”
“you can trust me in this, Director Nova. I may have ideas about time that you don’t like, but I have no desire to watch this planet be crushed into a black hole.”
Director Nova said, “General, EB, head down to Medlab 1 and help the doctors to get those avatars ready for transport. Santa, I’m trusting you to watch Father Time and keep us safe.”
Everyone gave Nova a quick nod.
Nova pressed his all-comm button. “Heroes, those who can still hear me, head for that rip in time and follow it to attack Drochah. We’re going to need everyone for this. Time is against us.”
1300 years into the future, the fractures in time glide across the planet like ice bergs. Time is nearly ready to collaspe entirely into a black hole. Max and Ginna are the remaining command staff working for General Nova, who disappeared the moment time broke across the planet. Using a gravity generator, they have been able to keep the base and surrounding area free of time fractures, but that is not going to last. Mech pilots have gathered around the compound, waiting for help to arrive. Gargoyle is in this future as well, since he is timeless, but he is unable to do much help with the problems at hand.
In the skies, looming over the planet, is a giant Drochah who fell through a crack in time hours ago. His movement has been slow as if he is outside of their time. Moments ago, his movement grew faster and superheroes came pouring out of the rift.
Max rushed out, “what the hell is that?”
Ginna said, “I don’t know, but Drochah is moving faster now. He must be getting closer to normal time. We have to move.” She banged on a metal scrap to get people’s attention. “EVERYONE! WE HAVE SHIPS COMING IN TO PICK US UP. I DON’T KNOW IF THEY CAN HOLD ALL OUR MECHAS, BUT WE HAVE TO GET OUT OF HERE BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE.”
There was a commotion of people whispering and murmuring in the back of the crowds. Many were not paying her any attention.
“AREN’T YOU LISTENING? WE HAVE AN EVAC PICK UP SHORTLY.”
Just then, General Nova stepped through the crowds with a strange bunch of people behind him. He smiled at her, “leaving so soon? But it’s just about to get interesting.”
“General!” Ginna gasped.
A white blur zipped around the people and ran right into Gar. It was a large, funny looking bunny who was hugging the statue around the middle. “Gar, buddy!”
Gar looked like he was about to cry, “EB...is it really you?”
“Yup, a blast from the past, so to speak.”
General Nova approached and introduce everyone to the man standing next to him that bore a strong resemblance. “Everyone, this is Director Nova...me from 1300 years ago.”
“1300 years? But...then...you...” Max stammered.
“Yes, Max, I am very old. Right now, that’s not the point.” The General stated.
Director Nova said, “we have a situation. Time is collapsing throughout history. Delta...I mean, Drochah has initiated a battle against the last vestiges of superheroes from my time. We have work to do to make sure they win.”
“That makes little sense.” Max said.
General Nova laughed, “of course it doesn’t. But, it is all true. First, we have to make sure we can operate. Nova, are your people ready?”
Director Nova looked back at a tall, old man dressed almost like a wizard, a 1930s gangster who appeared angry to be here, and someone dressed as Santa Claus. “We need to stabilize the time here so we can work without the fractures getting too close.”
The old wizard said, “the time here is horribly damaged. It will take all our strength to keep it from imploding, and I doubt we can hold that for long.”
Ginna approached the younger Nova. “Who are they, and what are they doing?”
“This is Father Time, Santa Claus, The Easter Bunny, and Dan Rutkowski. They all have the power to control time. They will keep this place from falling into a time vortex before everything implodes.”
Ginna frowned, “Santa...Easter Bunny...Father Time...I must have completely lost my mind.”
The Easter Bunny hopped up and handed her a chocolate egg he had materialized out of thin air. “Nope, you’re just as sane as the rest of us.”
“Take your places, everyone.” General Nova said. “EB, join them, Father Time, we’re going to need you.”
The legendary people, and the strange gangster, took up positions around the compound and then held up their hands. The broken time fractures moved even further away.
General Nova asked Ginna, “do the sensors show stabilized time?”
She ran inside and grabbed the scanner. Ginna examined the area and then nodded. “With whatever those people are doing and our gravity generator, time is very stable for five square miles.”
“Good. Director, it’s your show.” General Nova spoke to his counterpart.
Director Nova pressed a button on his wrist comm and a hole opened up in the air. Two scientists walked alongside a large hover cart carrying six hibernation tubes.
The doctor came up to the director, “their life signs are all stable, but they’re still very weak.”
“I know, Dr. Henderson. This is our only chance. Get them woken up and we’ll handle the rest.”
“Understood.” She turned to the other scientist, “Osteen, start the animation protocols.”
Max came over to the General and asked, “what’s going on? Who are those people in the tubes?”
“Our only chance of stopping Drochah. Max, I want you to round up six Mecha’s that have flight capability. I have schematics in my computer for special bio-link hook ups. Have them readied to hook into the system in less than an hour. Can you do that?”
“Sure. I’m a whiz at this kinda stuff.”
“Then, get to it!”
Max rushed off.
“Come on, people. We have a world to save.” General Nova led everyone else back into the command center. “Alright, people, we have a task. If we move fast, we might bring this to a proper end sooner than expected.”
Ginna pulled up her calculations. “Time is almost completely broken. It is shattered all over the solar system and those fractures are growing. However, the gravitational center of this time disaster is about to go completely unstable. At that point, it will collapse entirely into a black hole.”
Gar asked, “what did that all mean?”
Father Time answered, “time has a way of managing itself. This universe is on a strange, but stable, temporal constant that only fluctuates mildly in places. When something like this happens, the universe will ultimately correct itself. By collapsing into a black-hole, the time fractures will be destroyed and time will resume normally...or at least as normal as it can around the gravity of a black hole.”
“I still don’t understand.” Gar said.
Director Nova replied, “we have to fix time, or we all die. That’s all you need to understand.”
General Nova explained, “the anchor for all of this time disaster is 1300 years in the past. Drochah went back in time once before and tried to take over the Earth, but failed. In a fit of insanity, he returned to that timeline, replaced himself, corrected the failure. This altered history and broke time. It has taken these thirteen centuries to finally reach the collapsing point, but it is here. If we defeat Drochah while he is in this space of broken time, it will loosen that anchor, and all of his changes will revert to the original timeline.”
Ginna asked, “one thing I don’t understand. If he changed history and time has been breaking ever since, why don’t I remember that? There should be 1300 years of growing fractures in time, but I know nothing about that.”
Father Time said, “time is like a river. It keeps flowing. You are the water that is at the end of the flow. If someone were to throw a stone into the middle and cause a ripple, then only the ripples would know of the stone. Those ripples only reached this time recently. So, you remember the river before the stone, while all those who have been inside the ripples remember a different river.”
“I guess that makes sense.” Ginna said, not sounding too confident.
General Nova said, “the situation is this. Superheroes from the past are fighting the giant Drochah in the sky. Out there, we have six beings called Avatars of the Morphons. They have the combined power to rip the newly crafted power core out of Drochah. They are the only creatures in this universe that can stop him. But they are extremely weak right now.”
Ginna asked, “how do we help them?”
The General said, “that’s where we come in. We will plug the avatars into mecha’s. The mecha’s will be their strength to enter battle. Once we position them, they will do their duty, and Drochah will be deprived of his victory.”
Director Nova said, “however, we must first send ourselves a message back into the past so this all plays out correctly.”
“You just came from the past?” Gar said.
The General smiled, “of course I did, and I heard the message already. This is what they like to call a paradox. I know what must be done because I was there when it was done. If we don’t do this, then we will change history again...and at that point, time will implode instantly.”
Ginna asked, “how do we send a message back in time?”
“That is the part I must play.” Father Time said. “There is one among you who is in the past and present. One who is not human and his body can handle the displacement power that must be used on him.” He slowly looked at Gar.
Gar pointed at himself. “Me?”
Director Nova said, “yes.”
“You’re going to send me into the past?”
General Nova nodded, “that’s the plan. You’ll take a message back with you. It’ll be short, but you’ll deliver this to me in the past.”
“What message?”
Director Nova said, “there are six beings who we need to stop Drochah, who we call Delta in the past. If...”
All around them, claxon and sirens blared.
Two mecha pilots rushed in, “General! The giant Drochah just sent some kind of energy wave across the land. His old Mechas are popping out of the time fractures all over the place.”
General Nova swore under his breath. “Just what we didn’t need.”
Director Nova said, “if Drochah’s mecha’s join the battle against the heroes, this could be bad.”
The General said, “this is going exactly as I remember Gar telling me.” He slammed a button on the table and spoke into a mic, “all mechas launch! We have incoming enemies. Keep this compound safe! I repeat! All mechas launch!” Ginna ran out of the room, heading for her own mecha.
Father Time said, “we have little time. It is going to take some focus and power to send Mr. Gar back.”
Director Nova held Gar by the shoulders and spoke sternly, “Go back, tell them that the six are who we need to save us. The fight must come to the future. We must defeat him in this time or it won’t work.”
A voice yelled over the comm, “there are so many mecha’s!”
Gar trembled as he looked at all the people. “I can’t...I don’t...”
“Yes, you can.” General Nova said, “you are a great hero, Gargoyle, and my oldest friend. I know you can do this. I have already seen you do it.”
Father Time held up an enormous clock in his hands and stood before Gar. “Be ready, Mr. Gar. Once you go, it won’t be long before you will be drawn back to this present.”
Gar squared his shoulders and wings and nodded, “do it.”
Gar traveled back through time and found himself in the middle of the arboretum on the BADGE spacestation. For a brief moment, he touched General Nova and was able to deliver his message. Time pulled against this and he was drawn back to the future.
Gar fell and hit the ground. He was now in the command center with both Nova’s and Father Time looking down at him.
“Did you do it?” Father Time asked.
Gar quickly nodded. “I think so. I spoke with you, General, in the past.”
General Nova helped pull Gar to his feet. “Then you succeeded. I remember that conversation.”
“I wasn’t clear. I was so scared and slipping. I hope I didn’t confuse you.”
The General laughed, “it was a little confusing, but we figured it out, eventually. Don’t worry.”
All at once, the whole compound shook, and the lights flickered. The sound of explosions and laser fire immediately grew closer. Again, the place shook, and the power failed, then kicked back on.
Director Nova ran to the door. “Looks like the enemy is taking shots at the base.”
General Nova joined him and both watched the mecha’s belonging to Drochah firing wildly at the base’s defense shields. Friendly Mecha’s were attacking them, but it seemed like they were focused only on the base.
“This makes little sense.” Director Nova said. “Why would they let themselves be destroyed to attack the base?”
The General ran back in and looked at the sensors on the main map. “It makes perfect sense. Those Mecha’s aren’t driven by real people, just clones designed to obey Drochah. They have no fear of death.”
“So?”
The room shook again as more fire hit them.
The General said, “They have been ordered to attack us, and they will do so even at the expense of their own safety. I don’t understand why? I thought they were just a distraction to keep my forces from attacking Drochah directly.”
Director Nova said, “he must realize we have a plan. He will send everything at us to stop whatever we’re doing.”
“He might succeed!” The General yelled over another explosion. He pressed his comm button. “Max! Where are those six mechas?”
“Almost finished! Just tell those jerks out there to stop firing at us. This whole building is about to fall on my head.”
A massive explosion rocked the place, and a brilliant orange ball of fire consumed the main watching post. The General yelled, “hurry!”
Ginna slammed against the side of her cockpit as she took a heavy blow from one of Drochah’s older clone mechs. She turned and blasted a hole in the enemy’s side and then shoved its remains over. Putting one mechanical foot up on the fallen mecha, she showered the enemy lines with hot lead.
“DIE YOU BASTARDS!” She screamed.
A voice came over her comm. “Commander, the enemy is still primarily targeting the Nova Compound. It has taken heavy damage.”
“We have to stop them at all costs!” Pressing down on her controls, she charged forward, all weapons blazing.
“WHAT ARE YOU DOING, COMMANDER!?”
Ginna yelled, “what I have to! Follow me! If we succeed, we will never even remember this day. I won’t have happened. If we fail, we’re dead anyway!”
With a last yell of courage, she plowed her mecha into a group of heavy artillery mechs that were attacking the compound. Five Mechas, six including hers, exploded in an amazing fireball.
Her sacrifice was not lost on the others. They may not have understood all she said. They understood the need. In moments, the lines of ally mechas launched themselves at the enemy. One by one, they destroyed legions of Drochah’s mechs at the cost of their own lives.
“All mechas, stand back!” A voice spoke from a distant hill.
The lines of friendly mechs all stood in awe of an old mecha, one of the earliest designs. It had a dangerous, nuclear core that has since been outlawed. The pilot flashed a signal and all the friendly mechas hunkered down. The giant green mecha rocketed up and then slammed down in the middle of the battle zone. The eruption was followed by a mushroom cloud that split the heavens. Enemy mechas and a few friendly were scattered across the area as nothing but debris.
The cheering of the surviving friendly mechas was cut short when a new line of Drochah loyalist came marching over the distant hill, still focused on the compound.
A young man turned on his comm. “CHARGE!”
Director Nova rushed outside to see that mushroom cloud in the distance. The shock wave met the shields of the compound and buzzed across them.
“What the hell just happened?”
EB, still holding his little paws in the air, said, “some big, ugly green mecha just dive bombed those nasty mecha things and blew them to heck.”
Rutkowski, the gangster, added, “them mechas on our side, they are going kamikaze on the enemy. Bravest bunch of numbskulls I ever seen.”
General Nova joined them, “my people know the meaning of courage, sacrifice, and the dangers of failure. I hope their sacrifices won’t be in vain.”
“They won’t.” Director Nova assured.
Father Time stepped out and looked at the clock in his hands. “Time is falling apart. Hurry.”
Director Nova walked over to his scientists. “Are they ready?”
Dr. Henderson gestured to the open bays and the six strange-looking people groggily waking up. “This is the best I can do.”
General Nova tapped his comm. “Max, are you ready?”
“On my way.” As he said this, seven large mecha suits stomped up to the compound and then lowered down and opened their cockpit doors. Max clicked off his comm and smiled at them from the lead mecha. “See, no sweat.”
“We’re sweating hard, Mr. Max.” Director Nova stated. “Dr. Henderson, get them in.”
Both scientists and both Nova’s helped the six avatars into the mechas. It was a strange group, one was just a living book, one looked like he was part lion, another was a beautiful pink woman, yet another comprised mechanical parts himself. None were simply human.
Once they were secured, General Nova tapped his comm unit. “Okay, avatars, I’ll be guiding you from inside my base, and Max will take the lead once you get up there. Listen to us and let the mecha’s work on their own. I am just getting you into position. From there, you know what to do.” With a set of six acknowledgment beeps, they were ready.
Director Nova told his people, “Dr. Henderson, Dr. Osteen, get inside with the General.” He pulled a gun with one hand and an enormous sword with his other. “Gar, you know what we have to do.”
The Gargoyle of this time period joined Director Nova. “Yes.”
The six mecha jets activated, and they rose into the air. None of the avatars were piloting them. The navigation was being handled by the General from inside the compound. Outside, Director Nova and Gar watched with bated breath as their last best hope rose into the sky. Max blasted off as well, rising above them.
“INCOMING!” EB suddenly bellowed.
A volley of missiles slammed into the mechas from one enemy in the distance. Three of the six faltered for a moment, but continued upward.
Gar took off and flew up. He let the next volley hit him in the chest. The explosion sent him flying back, crashing into the ground. He brushed himself off and then rushed right back into the defense.
An enemy mecha raced toward the compound. Nova ran toward it, firing his gun at first, but then meeting its leg with a well-placed slash from his sword. Several important cords were severed, and the mecha crashed to the ground. Nova didn’t stop there. He dashed toward the enemy lines, with only his sword and gun to attack.
Father Time levitated in the air, his eyes glowing a yellow light. The clock he carried hovered in between his hands. When another set of missiles bypassed Gar’s defenses, Father Time turned them into arrows that did no damage. He waved a hand and the lasers on one of the mecha’s turned into old flashlights.
EB laughed, “keep it up, changed them all into old model T’s.”
“I can’t alter time that much, or risk damaging everything.” Father Time said as he turned more weapons into useless antiques.
EB looked up at the ascending mechs with the avatars in them. “I hope to god this works.”
Krystal Fae charged up all the energy she could muster and took aim at the large orb jammed into Drochah’s massive body. Unleashing her power, she attempted to crack the orb. Her attack was joined by dozens of others. Yet, for all their fury, Drochah seemed unfazed by the whole combat. The giant figure stood there, stoic and still, not even paying them attention. The surrounding heroes swarmed like mosquitoes, looking for a place to land.
Gar flew by with Chase kneeling on his back. She threw her magic blades repeatedly, aiming for Drochah’s eyes. “Any progress?” She yelled.
Krystal shook her head. “I sense no change in his strength.”
“I have the answer!” A man yelled through their comms.
A dirigible came flying through the time rift, Furious Squirrel at the helm. He pulled down a large cone shaped pipe and talked into it. “I have Peyton with me and Time Bender. They have info!”
Krystal Fae swooped around and came toward the large dirigible. “What?”
Peyton grabbed the pipe and said, “Drochah is stronger here. This is his time period. I can sense his power. But, I also know that he is slightly outside of our time. It’s hard to explain, but since he broke through time first, he’s ahead of us by just a short time. Our attacks can’t hurt him, just like we couldn’t see his fortress in the ocean.”
Hot Wings yelled through his comm, “how the hell does that help us?”
Time Bender took the pipe, “Peyton has a brilliant idea. Everyone with any level of temporal powers focus your strength on him, and he’ll blast a time beam at Drochah, shoving him a few seconds in time. That’ll bring him to our speed and we can actually hurt him.”
Peyton grabbed the pipe, “the catch is, we gotta hit him hard as soon as he is in our time. He is one powerful mug.”
“Gotcha.” Krystal said and then clicked her comm. “Everyone, on my cue, send your time powers at the pilothouse on that dirigible. Everyone else, pull back and get your best shot ready. I want Drochah to feel this one.”
With a barrage of agreeing comments, it was ready. Krystal flew up, followed by a few others. She prepared herself and then cast a spell at the dirigible that signaled the others to act. A great energy formed around the pilothouse and Peyton became a bright light. He pushed both hands forward and a beam shot out from him. The moment it contacted Drochah, the giant enemy finally displayed some level of emotion. He stumbled and fell back slightly. His body flickered and the shade of him changed slightly.
The next moment came with an eruption of power from all the heroes. Weapons, energy attacks, throwing stars, globs of goo. Every sort of attack they could muster all hit him at once. This time, he almost fell down from the damage.
Peyton yelled into the comms, “he’s in our time. Keep hitting him, now!”
The dirigible unleashed several volleys of missiles, exploding against Drochah’s face.
Not unlike King Kong swiping at airplanes, Drochah went after the surrounding heroes. He hit more than one, but he too was being hit and now it looked like it hurt him.
Chase wore a strange gray glove on the hand that materialized the throwing stars. Releasing them one by one, she nailed Drochah in one eye.
Gar, still carrying her, said, “it’s working!”
“Yeah, somehow this glove is neutralizing the morphon type. He’s feeling this.”
“What about the plan? Where are the avatars?” Gar asked.
Chase looked down at the land far below. “I don’t see them. Look at that place. The world down there is broken like glass.”
Indeed, the land below appeared like a mirror that had been shattered. At the center was a normal land with a compound in the center and large robots around it. But, at a distance around it and as far as the horizon, the land was in pieces. Each piece was a different time, a different era in human history.
“LOOK OUT!” Gar turned hard in the sky.
Drochah unleashed a massive blast of energy that threw heroes away from him. He then held his right hand out and cast a great wave of energy at the ground below.
“Look, the heroes!” Gar said.
Chase watched the heroes grasping at their chests as their bodies emanated different hues. “He still can hurt them through their morphon types. Damn. What the?” She saw armies of mechs were appearing out of the time fractures and attacking the compound. “He summoned his mech armies?”
Gar gasped, “the avatars...he must be trying to stop them!”
Chase clicked on her comm. “He’s trying to kill the avatars!”
“TARGET THE ORB, WE MUST STOP HIM QUICK!” Krystal Fae yelled.
The heroes flew around Drochah, dodging his physical attacks. They joined in a massive flying V with the Dirigible at the lead. Drochah projected another morphon controlling wave and sent more than half of them reeling out of control. The remaining heroes focused their powers and blasted the orb with a strong single attack.
A great crack formed in the orb and that was followed by an eruption of power that toppled even more heroes and nearly crashed the blimp.
Below them, a mushroom cloud exploded upward from the ground as the battle between the mechs intensified.
Drochah stumbled back, almost falling over. The color in his skin and the brightness from his eyes dimmed.
“WE’RE WINNING!” The Wizard called out in glee.
Time Bender yelled, “LOOK OUT!”
Drochah’s body flashed, disappearing and reappearing in the same place he had been. His orb was still cracked, but his body had regained all its color. He held out his hand and the surrounding heroes were locked. The morphon energy in their bodies was under his control. Like the weapons Osteen designed, he was dissolving the heroes one by one by tearing the morphons from their very DNA.
“It is over, heroes! Your pointless war ends now. The Earth is destroyed, Legion shall be reborn!” Drochah declared.
Chase gasped as her body ached. She could feel her blood boiling as the morphons in her were being torn out. Gar held her in his arms, unable to help her. He was one of the few who wasn’t being hurt, but he could not stop this.
The sound of rocket jets caught their attention and seven Mechs rose through the atmosphere, heading for Drochah. This seemed to put genuine fear in him as he let go of murdering them and went after the mechs.
Chase gasped in air and weakly held her comm unit. “Attack...Drochah...now...”
The heroes took this opportunity to go after him again. They were injured and in pain, but they didn’t hold back what they had left. Each unleashed their attacks at his orb again. The immediate taxing of their powers caused many to finish dissolving as they spent their last living breath to save the earth. Hundreds of heroes evaporated around them. Chase watched Hot Wings, Krystal Fae, Peyton, The Wizard, and more simply vanish as they gave their lives for this.
One by one, six mechs flew up and surrounded Drochah. His orb broke further under the onslaught, his power weakening. From each mech, a different color of light came forth. Red, orange, green, purple, blue, and yellow. They made contact with the orb and each drew out that same color from him. Drochah writhed and screamed, but he could do nothing to stop this. Those mechs fell away as the occupants floated out, still drawing his strength from him. The six avatars drained Drochah’s bastardized core.
The orb in his chest grew dark and then broke, crumbling as though it had turned to ash. The color in his body faded, his eyes lot their light, and he screamed an agonizing plea for death. Falling from the heavens, crashing through the atmosphere, and landing in the middle of all the fractures below, Drochah was torn into a dozen different pieces as his body was shredded into different time frames across all the history of this world.
Chase watched this in a state of shock, unsure what to think. Suddenly, the fractures all beamed a bright light, and she was taken away into a realm of nothingness.
“Is this it?” She whispered into this void. “Has time collapsed? ….
… Is this the end?”
Chase existed in a place she couldn’t describe. It was as though time had absorbed her. Soon, she felt others, people who were part of this existence.
“Who is there?” Her voice echoed endlessly across this unknown expanse of nothingness.
Those same three words resounded back to her, but from different voices. She knew them, her father, EB, Father Time, Nova, Quark, Peyton, Rutkowski. They were all speaking. But were they real? Did she simply want to see someone so badly right now that her mind was playing tricks?
“Drochah is dead, but were we too late?” She thought to herself. “Did time itself collapse at the last moment, destroying everything in our solar system? Did we fail?”
Suddenly, a great tunnel formed through this expanse. It was made of energy, spiraling across all existence. Though she could not feel her physical form, Chase could follow this tunnel as it bore through time.
All at once she could see the inside of a conference room. It was a place she had been to once before. It was a room inside the secret compound of the World Corps. Yes, it was certainly that same place. During the attack on Pretoria, Arx had shed his powers and given BADGE what they needed to find the World Corps and finally stop them. Quark had transported her and Gar here, but they were too late. Right now, Judge Alpha, Gamma, and Delta were standing in the room watching screens displaying Ben Talos addressing the UN while the other showed the shuttle coming in toward Pretoria.
“No, this is not right. They weren’t here at that time.” She thought aloud.
Suddenly, the room froze as the rift in time opened. Drochah stepped through and changed his image to that of Delta.
Eight voices spoke in unison, “he is going to break time!”
This caused Delta to look up upon hearing that. “Who is here? Who is watching me?!”
As one, they all said, “Go! Never return! Go! Never again cross time! GO!”
Delta instantly transformed back into Drochah and was thrust into the rift, thrown back into his own time.
Chase left that scene and stood on the stairs in the back of the Operations center of BADGE. Director Nova stood before the screen, watching the shuttle return children to Pretoria in one window and the infiltration of the World Corps on the other.
Director Nova also appeared next to her.
“Director? But...how?”
“We are both outside the flow of time for the moment.”
“What happened? Did we defeat Drochah?”
“Yes, and no. We defeated him in the alternate future. But, in doing so, we were drawn into the time stream he used to alter history. We could stop him from doing what he did to change history in the first place. Drochah, now, never changed history and it will unfold as it should have.”
“Then how come I remember that? Shouldn’t we be back in our normal time frame, unaware of all the changes that will never happen?”
“We are touched by time in a special way, not unlike Drochah. We have time powers. We will recall the alternate history. So will Father Time, Peyton, Rutkowski, Santa, EB, and Quark.”
She asked, “what was that I saw? The conference room and Drochah appeared, and I think we sent him away.”
“That is exactly what happened. We all ended up at the point where he broke time. We could stop that moment from happening. And, together with our time powers, we banished him from using his time power ever again.”
“What now? Why are we standing here? Why are you down there and up here?”
They both looked up at the events unfolding before them. Nova said, “we are coming in sync with real time. Soon, we will both return to the place we should be at this moment when time broke.”
“What is happening? What are we watching?” She saw the shuttle lowering toward Pretoria and Ben Talos on the screen.
Nova quietly said, “we are watching events that cannot be changed. Drochah will not have broken time and things will turn out for the better. But there are dark events that must happen because they are part of real time.”
An icy feeling crawled over her skin. “The shuttle with the kids...”
“It cannot be changed.” He whispered as they both watched the augmented Torrin Wolf blast the shuttle and murder all the children being returned.
Chase covered her eyes and turned around. “No!”
“Why are you yelling?” Gar asked her.
Chase looked up and was now standing in the corridor outside the conference room on the World Corps’ secret base.
Chase looked around. “We’re here. The shuttle..what..where am I?”
Quarks smiled at her. “It’s a little confusing, I know. But this is finally the real timeline.”
“Quark!” She grabbed him in a hug.
“Yeah, yeah, the old duck is still quacking. It’s scary being torn in half, glad that never really happened.”
Gar frowned. “What are you two talking about?”
“Nothing you need to worry about.” Chase said.
Quark smiled. “I think we’re going to set things straight.” He held up a small computer device. “You just finished hacking into their security system, and I’ll broadcast this live. Hold on to your shorts. This world is about to get a bit of breaking news.”
Across the world, all networks were pre-empted by a hacked signal from the security camera inside the World Corps conference room. Alpha, Delta, and Gamma were oblivious to being observed.
“I don’t care what you tell them. Make sure the media is watching the public schools.” Gamma said.
Beta asked, “when?”
“In ten minutes. We’ll have the augment lay waste to all the Pretoria schools. Our sensors show kids in two buildings that are supposed to be safety zones. Make sure the cameras are focused on that area and then make it clear all the children are dead.”
“What if they don’t all die?” Beta asked.
Alpha said, “Don’t worry, our agents on the ground will slaughter any kids who don’t die in the attack...wait...what is that?”
Their computer systems displayed the fact that they were being broadcast across the planet.
“WE’RE LIVE!” Beta yelled.
Quark, Chase, and Gar came into the room just then. Quark said, “smile, you’re on candid camera.”
“TURN OFF THE SYSTEMS!” Alpha screeched.
Chase said, “good luck, I seriously rigged your systems.”
Quark laughed, “hey, world, check out the actual face of Delta.” He waved his hand, and the camouflage was dissolved, revealing the genuine alien face of Drochah.
“What the hell are you?” Alpha jumped back.
“Damnit!” Drochah reached out and murdered both Gamma and Alpha, and then attacked the computers.
Gar raced toward him. “He’s trying to destroy the evidence!”
“Like hell!” Quark hit Drochah with a quantum energy blast. Drochah screamed, then dissolved.
“What did you do?” Chase asked.
“Just unplugged his tether to our time. He’s back where he belongs. Let’s make sure we get those computers uploaded before the system defaults blow this place to heck.”
One week later...
Nova brushed off his the sleeve of his dress uniform as he watched the news being broadcast all over the world.
“This is the scene at the United Nations as a former member, Ben Talos, has been taken into custody pending criminal hearings after it was discovered that Mr. Talos was a mole for the World Corps. Mr. Talos is charged with treason, sedition, murder, conspiracy, and thirteen other charges that will be brought up to a special court being organized by the UN. After BADGE infiltrated the World Corps HQ, they have presented the United Nations with data taken from the computers of the World Corps, including plans to use the mercenary forces to control nations. In related news, Doctor Jason Osteen has been found and taken into custody. Officials say that he has agreed to a plea deal in which he is providing evidence against his employers in exchange for commuting a death sentence. He has revealed the augmentation program the World Corps used to craft the villain Arx, the attackers against Washington D.C., the attacker against Pretoria, South Africa, and many others. Experts say it will take years to sort out the details. However, it has become clear that BADGE was being framed for many actions they are not guilty of. To discuss this matter, we have a panel of experts who disagree about BADGE’s total innocence. We turn to...”
EB hopped over to him, “Come on, buddy, the party is downstairs and it won’t start till we’re there.”
“Coming.”
EB raced through the thick crowds of the party guests. Dodging under legs, around tables, and over a few shoulders, he came to a stop right next to Chase.
“Hey, babe, I got the Director down here.”
“Good. And don’t call me babe.” Chase walked past EB.
EB hopped along after her. “Okay, sweetheart, darling, cutie pie...which works best for you?”
“How about Chase, or you can call me Chase-who-will throw-you-out-an-airlock if you use one of those names again?”
“Aw, not far.” EB pouted.
Chase found Gar talking with Prime Minister Shizue. “Gar, where is he?”
“He is in the corner over there.”
Chase said, “I’m going to get Nova so he can make sure he knows.”
“Chase, I hope you aren’t running off so soon. I’ve barely had time to speak with you.” Shizue smiled.
Chase gave the Prime Minister a proper bow greeting, as was the tradition for her people. “Sorry, it seems even when I’m supposed to be at a party, I’m still on duty.”
“Don’t overwork yourself. We have all earned a rest.” Shizue said. “My own Second Minister wanted me to go over the legal paperwork for the Osteen case with the head of the United Nations security council and I told him I’m not talking business tonight, not like that.”
Chase said, “oh, that’s right, they’re going to hold Dr. Osteens official trial in your country.”
“Yes. The United Nations will hold the trial while inside our borders. We’ll allow the U.N. to combine his transgressions against our people, as well as what he did for the World Corps. I simply hate that the worst we can do to him is a life sentence.”
Gar said, “his testimony and evidence he had secretly gathered against the World Corps has been wonderful.”
Chase added, “yes, without his testimony, the United Nations might still wonder if BADGE was a willing part of the World Corps plans.” Chase grabbed a champagne flute from a passing tray. “I have some questions about the children you had been protecting, those orphans with superpowers.”
“Oh, things are going great. We’ve established a special school where a few BADGE heroes and one agent are teaching and guiding the children. We also have some adults coming forward who had hidden their powers out of fear of being executed by our former leader.”
“Oh, excuse me for a moment.” Chase pointed across the room. “Gar, go get Peyton and take him to talk with Nova. Tell them I’ll be over in a moment.”
“Oh, sure. Nice to talk to you, Prime Minister.” Gar bowed out and sidled through the gathered officials.
“Excuse me, excuse me, oh, sorry, yes, excuse me. Sorry. Hello. Nice to see you..excuse me...”
“You should be in movies with a face like that.” A reporter said loud enough to grab Gars’ attention.
He turned to find Strange Quark standing with Craig, formerly Arx, as they were talking with the INN reporter.
Craig gave off his amazing smile and puffed up his half naked chest. “So I’ve been told.”
Quark said, “Craig here is a recent addition to our team up here on the station. He’s just learning what he can do.”
“I wouldn’t mind doing a movie or two. I love acting,” Craig said.
Chase joined them. “But BADGE discourages their representatives from getting involved with acting and movies. Our jobs are to protect the planet and that’s a full-time job.”
“Why, yes, it is. And you are?” The reporter smiled at Chase.
“Agent Chase, I work directly with Director Nova.”
“Yes, I thought I had seen you with the Director during some of the League Wars events. Tell me, we’re curious about the condition and current whereabouts of the augmented people left from the World Corps situation.”
Quark answered, “BADGE has no official response to that yet. However, I can say that we are treating them as victims. Even though the few still out there are resisting detention and view us as the enemy, that was programmed into them. They’re innocent people. If we can undo the damage and release the real person under the augmentation, we will.”
“That sounds pretty official to me.” The reporter stated.
Chase added, “Nova will draft an official response soon for press release. Now, if I can leave you with our friend Craig, Quark and I have to speak with the director for a moment.”
She took Quark with her and left Craig to do what he does best, glow for the camera.
Quark said, “are you sure it’s wise to leave him alone? Nova is worried that they’ll find out he was Arx.”
“Trust me, Craig is far more worried about that being discovered than anyone else. He’ll keep his secret. Besides, BADGE needs a good front for meeting the Media. Nova comes across as a grouchy old grandpa. I would rather be much more discreet, you are...let’s face it...strange. Craig is handsome, charming, and knows how to speak well during interviews. He’ll do good in this role for now.”
They continued swimming through the throngs of guests, dodging a few more interviews from other media outlets, requests for attention from dignitaries, and greetings from fellow heroes. Finally, they came upon Nova, who was speaking with EB, Peyton, and Rutkowski.
“Sorry it took so long. There are many people here who want our attention. I still don’t understand why you wanted to invite all these media and UN reps.”
Nova said, “we’ve been on the barrel end of the media’s cannons for months. They’re finally admitting we aren’t the villains. It’s time we reestablished relations with them and the politicians. I hate media and politics, but they are necessary evils for a properly running society.”
EB said, “speaking of necessary evils, what is Rat-kowski doing here?”
“Dats RUTkowski, you little vermin.”
EB threatened with an exploding egg, but Nova stopped him.
“Enough. I asked Rutkowski here for a special reason.” Nova stepped back, guiding them even further from the crowds.
“What’s up?” Peyton asked.
“We’re among the very few on this planet who know what happened in the alternate timeline. We have a special connection. But, we must keep the alternate history to ourselves. What almost happened could start a panic.”
“I ain’t gonna spill, if dats what yer worried about.” Rutkowski stated.
Nova said, “I wasn’t worried that you would, though it’s nice to hear you say that. I wanted to say we have a few loose ends. First, Rutkowski, you may be a low-life, despicable, greedy, power hungry criminal, but you showed genuine heroism that I cannot dismiss.”
“That is the best backhanded compliment I ever got.” Rutkowski said.
“What I’m trying to say is that, even though there is no way I can prove it to the courts, you have gained some trust in my eyes. I know you would rather rob a bank than start a food pantry, but when the cards are down, the safety of this world matters to you. That means a lot to me. As far as BADGE is concerned, your slate has been cleaned.”
Rutkowski looked astonished, maybe even misty eyed. “I don’t know what to say. Thanks.”
“Just try to keep your nose clean when it comes to BADGE related matters. You want to keep your seedy antics going in Neo Utopia. That is between you and the police.”
“I’ll try. Is dat all?”
“No. We have another problem, one that I might need your help with.”
“What now?” Rutkowski’s congenial nature vanished.
Quark said, “Father Time. He never returned the clock.”
Peyton slumped his shoulders. “That clown is still at large?”
EB said, “Father Time is slippery and powerful. He could pass as one of my kind if I didn’t know better.”
Chase asked, “do you think he’ll use the clock and mess with time again?”
“I have no doubt he’ll try. But he’ll wait. He knows we’re on to him. He’ll go deep into hiding and bide his time. I doubt we’ll be able to hunt him down right away. But, we, with time powers, need to be aware that he will try something, eventually. I want all of you to stay alert and inform me the moment you sense something unusual.”
“Dat’s no problem. If I get one sniff of his sorry hide, I’ll let ya know. Now, I want to go an enjoy dis here party. I ain’t no mob boss, I’m a real estate mogul.” He put on his businessman smile and strode away to meet the rich guests.
Peyton followed behind. “I’ll keep an eye on him.”
Nova watched them leave with Quark, Chase, EB, and Gar around him.
EB said, “Father Time is still out there.”
“Yes.”
Chase said, “the Augments are still causing trouble.”
“Right.”
Gar asked, “The World Corps isn’t gone, is it?”
“Nope.”
Quark laughed, “the world is still a mess, but then we’d get bored if it were any other way.”
Nova put on a gracious smile as another politician approached to greet them. “You know, I think I’d like to try some boring peace for just one day of my life.”
Nova stood before the grand monitors on the station with Agent Justin and Gar at his side. Dozens of news services were displaying stories from across the planet. Many were talking about protest marches in major cities.
“Enhance and unmute screen seventeen.” Nova ordered.
One of the smaller screens expanded and came alive with sound. A serious-looking man spoke to the camera from his desk. “I’m Jack Nickleby for the International News Network, and this is At This Hour and my guest today is a correspondent with the News Sentinel, Mr. Chaz Hamilton. Thank you for coming on our program today, Chaz.”
Chaz fidgeted with his lapel mic for a moment and then answered. “Hello, Jack, I’m more than happy to be here.”
“Mr. Hamilton, the current situation across the world is that of confusion. People aren’t sure if we can trust superheroes or BADGE. In some cities, we’re seeing protests against the World Corps. In other cities, they’re in solidarity with the World Corps position against BADGE, and there are even those who are against all superheroes, even those employed by the World Corps.”
Chaz nodded, “I agree. Everyone has been driven into a state of confusion by conflicting information. However, history has shown that the most heinous people have risen to power through inflicting confusion. Propaganda is a powerful tool in the hands of both good and evil people.”
“I agree, Mr. Hamilton. Since you work more directly with BADGE, I was hoping you might provide us with a clearer picture of what Director Nova is doing right now and what he means to accomplish by these attacks on major cities.”
“Now, hold on a moment, Jack. You imply that Director Nova is behind these attacks. That has not been proven by anyone. In fact, I can say that BADGE has been against these incursions at every instance.”
“Are you trying to tell our viewers that Nova and BADGE are not behind the attacks on Washington and Pretoria?”
Chaz nodded again. “That is exactly what I want your viewers to know. Heroes sent by BADGE stopped these attacks, at substantial costs, I might add.”
“Then who would you say is behind this? We know for certain that the most recent attack was conducted by a man who wore a BADGE insignia.”
“Well, Jack, anyone can slap on a pin and call themselves the president, but that doesn’t mean they are. I believe people are too soon to forget the atrocities conducted by the organization calling itself the World Corps. They were kidnapping children and abducting people when this attack was launched. I have it on good authority that the World Corps was behind both attacks as a means of enacting their own ploy.”
“And just what would that ploy be?”
“I don't have all the information about that, but I can say that this ploy would not be for our benefit. That is for certain.”
Jack gave off a warm smile. “Now, Mr. Hamilton, I can hardly believe your opinions are not without bias. Isn’t the News Sentinel just another extension of BADGE’s own propaganda?”
“Wait, no. We work with BADGE and are often the first to get information about the goings on of the heroes and BADGE. However, we are an independent news service.”
“Sure, then has the News Sentinel informed the world of the true identity of the attacker of Pretoria?”
Chaz tensed up, “we...don’t have that information.”
Jack held up a tablet with a photos of Agent Torrin in uniform as a BADGE security officer and as the transformed villain. “One of BADGE’s own documented heroes was the villain who attacked Pretoria. That does not look good on their part, and on the part of the Sentinel who seems to have either been left in the dark on this damning evidence, or covered it up.”
“The News Sentinel is not in the habit of covering up crimes of anyone!”
Jack said, “then you’ll admit the Sentinel was ignorant, and that BADGE attempted to use that ignorance to cover their crimes?”
Chaz stood up, plucked the mic off his blazer, and walked off the set.
Nova swiped a hand in the air and the robot muted the screen before the host could respond to that. “I knew Mr. Hamilton shouldn’t have been on that program.”
“But you cleared him?” Justin said.
“I don’t have that authority. All I did was say I agreed it might be helpful. Now, I realize it was a mistake. The media is out for sensationalism, and we’re their targets. We have to get this under control.”
Justin picked up a computer tablet and checked it over. “We have heroes across the world still active, but in secret. They aren’t stopping their work just because the World Corps has turned the public opinion against us.”
Nova let out a calming sigh, “well put, Justin. I have always hated politics. I worked in secret because I never wanted to worry about public image and political opinions. Small-minded people arguing with each other over their petty power struggles never really accomplish much but annoyance.”
A robot announced, “Incoming Message: IboShin Gu.”
“Put it through.”
Another window opened with IboShin Gu holding several large crystal points. “Director, I have a strange situation.”
“What?”
“I was checking on one of the crystal deposits and found that its growth was more than double what I expected. Plus, I’m seeing more shards growing in various places near the deposit. These crystals grow fast...but this is strange.”
“Bring them to a nearby BADGE facility for analysis and monitor this.”
“Understood.” The screen went blank.
Gar asked, “what do you think this is about?”
“I don’t know. Could be nothing. I’m more concerned with what the World Corps is up to through all this bad publicity.”
Delta strode through a corridor on a hidden base. In his hand, he held a rather large specimen of the
crystals that grow around Earth. He stopped at the end of the hall and flashed his key card to open a top-secret door.
Inside the room sat Alpha with Beta and Gamma on the screen behind her.
Beta looked up from his office at the UN. “Delta, where have you been? This meeting is half over.”
“I’m busy. I doubt you’ve said anything that I needed to worry about.”
Alpha shot him a severe look. “Everything about our plans concerns all of us. This is no small task we’re in the middle of.”
Delta sank into a chair and plopped his feet up on the table. “Global domination is never a minor job. Now, what are we talking about?”
Beta sternly stated, “I was in the middle of my report about the situation at the UN. I have the committees all tied up in useless discussions. The representatives are all in my back pocket. They’re so grateful for my help in exposing the true villain, BADGE, that they trust everything I say.”
“Good.” Delta stated.
Gamma said, “I just arrived at our programming facility. We have over ten thousand soldiers ready for deployment at a moment’s notice.”
Alpha said, “very good. We need to hold back for a little while. Let the fear and panic fester. Once it dies down, we’ll strike again, and this time we will move to the first part of our ultimate plan.”
Chase and Craig walked down a busy street in the middle of Detroit, dressed in simple apparel. The passerby remained oblivious to who they were.
“Would you stop that.” Chase muttered under her breath.
Craig smiled at some girls that giggled at his muscles bulging through his shirt. He shot them a little finger gun and a wink and then continued on his way. “This just feels natural. I don’t remember being the superstar Arx, but this adoration seems...real. I like it.”
“Well, you need to cool it. Arx gained an ego the size of a small moon and you see where that led him.”
Craig softly said, “I know. And you don’t have to talk about Arx like he’s another person. He’s my past.”
“Your past is dead and buried. The man who did that died in the lab when they burned those memories out of you. Now, if you….what are you doing?”
Craig was looking in a window of a building. He stopped and coyly smiled at her. “I was just...um…”
“Flexing at your reflection.”
Craig continued with her. “I know it seems so egotistical, but Dr. Henderson said that one augmentation I had done is still with me, this incredible body. These muscles just stay. I don’t have to pump iron or anything. I look good all the time. It’s...it’s strange and nice. I suppose I just like to look.”
Chase said, “fine, I guess that’s okay. You’ll get used to the body. I’m glad you’re flirting with other girls and mirrors and not me.”
Craig laughed, “I don’t flirt with girls who are already taken.”
“Arx flirted with anything that moved.”
“Well, as you said, I’m not Arx. I don’t know what I turned into, but before I came to Hollywood, I was taught to be respectful.”
Chase frowned, “wait, you said taken. I’m single.”
“Oh, really? I could have sworn you and Gar…”
“We’re just friends.”
Craig said, “not the way he looks at you.”
“Well, we have a complicated past and...oh dear.”
They both stopped and found a cluster of protesters outside the local Fight Club, which was their destination. Men and women of all ages held signs and yelled at the guards standing outside. Chase ran ahead, pushing through the crowds. A man stood at the front, yelling in the face of the Fight Club director, who staunchly stood his ground.
“We know these Fight Clubs aren’t just free gyms, they’re secret training facilities for BADGE minions! Close the doors! Leave our city!”
Another woman yelled, “BADGE isn’t welcome!”
This drove the crowd into a louder dither.
Chase stood with the club director, Craig beside her. “What’s going on, Bill?”
Bill tried to answer her, but the lead protester got in his face to answer her, “we’re shutting down this dangerous villain training camp.”
“We don’t train villains!” Bill yelled.
“You’re poisoning our city!” another man yelled out.
A woman said, “clean up your mess and leave!”
Chase said, “people, please. This location will close for the day, go home and cool off.”
The lead protester got in her face now. “And why should we?”
She held out a blade to his nose, “if you really think we’re villains, then you’re an idiot. Now, either you throw a punch or leave, I’m tired of talking to you.”
While leaving, the leader yelled about how this was proof they were villains and how he would tell the news of how he was attacked.
“That wasn’t smart.” Bill said.
Chase let her blade vanish. “I know. Nova won’t be pleased with me. Right now, I want to know what’s going on.”
“Come on.” He led her inside.
Chase and Craig followed him into the dark Fight Club.
“We sent everyone home two hours ago. I thought we could wait for that protest to break up and then the regular gym people could return. It only got worse out there.” Bill said, he looked at Craig, “who is this?”
“This is the hero I was bringing here for you to help train.”
“Oh, sorry, kid, no training today.”
“That’s fine.” Craig asked, “what did they mean we are poisoning their city? That’s an odd thing to say.”
Chase said, “just a colorful way of attacking our presence here.”
Bill opened a special door to the meta-human section of the gym. “They’ve been throwing some interesting terms at us, but this isn’t one of them. There is something happening. I was just about to report it with that gaggle of idiots showed up and started causing trouble.”
“What’s wrong?” Chase followed him through yet another door into the special storage area.
Bill pulled open a chest that held the energy cores for the unique superhero training equipment. Inside, he produced three large blue crystals. “The people have been finding these all over the city. Not large amounts of them, but they’re showing up randomly and growing way faster than before.”
Craig asked, “what are these?”
Chase took one. “These crystals have been growing in pockets around the world for years, just after the first super heroes started showing up. We don’t know what they are, exactly, but we’ve found uses for them. Did you say they are showing up all over the city?”
Bill nodded, “yup. People said they found them in parks, by the river, and in their front yards. Now, I aint see much more than a few dozen, but I aint looking for them either. Been kinda busy keeping those protesters from knocking down our door.”
Craig asked, “what does this mean?”
“I have no clue.” Chase handed him the crystal and then clicked her comm. “I have to report this.”
Nova spoke to Chase through the main monitor at the station. She told him all she had seen today, from the protesters to the crystals. His stoic silence was tense and cold while she reported.
“That’s all we know. For now, the club is closed for the day.”
Nova finally spoke up in this conversation. “Keep the club closed until further notice. Bill, I want you to gather up as many of the supers that you’ve been training that you trust and find those crystals.”
Bill nodded. “No problem. I’ve got some good kids working on their powers. What about the local hero league?”
“I don’t like getting them out in public too much. I’ll tell them to search in secret, but they’ll have to organize that themselves. Your responsibility will be the non-BADGE supers that have been working with you. They aren’t heroes, and I doubt people know they are supers yet.”
“Gotcha. What do we do with the crystals when we find them?”
“Bring them back to the club and wait. One of the league members will collect them and bring them to us for analysis.”
“Will do.”
Nova turned to Chase, “you and Craig keep moving. Visit other cities and clubs. I want to know how widespread this strange crystal growth is. Stay in civilian clothing. Neither of you are very identifiable and can fly under the radar of the media and protesters.”
Craig asked, “you want me to work, like, as an official for BADGE?”
“I want you to assist Chase. You’re not under my authority, so you may decide not to if you wish. But we can use help.”
Craig smiled. “I’ll be glad to help. Just call me agent Craig.”
“Craig is fine. Now, get going. The last thing we need is another crisis in the middle of this mess.”
“Understood, Chase out.” The screen went dark.
Nova turned and found Gar frowning. “Something wrong?”
“Oh,...uh...no.”
Nova passed him while saying, “she isn’t interested in Craig, focus on our job.”
Chase and Craig exited the cloaked BADGE shuttle in the middle of Oxford, England.
“Come on, the Fight Club is downtown.” Chase looked around, to be certain no one was paying them any special attention.
Craig followed behind her. “Do you manage these clubs?”
Chase crossed a street and then headed down the sidewalk. “I don’t manage them. I have helped establish most of them. I know this world better than most since I spent a lot of years traveling all over.”
“Oh, a jet setter?”
“Not exactly. I liked expensive things and would find clever ways of obtaining them...illegally.”
“Oh, I didn’t know you did that.”
Chase turned a corner and continued, “I was good at what I did and gained a lot of skills that have helped me. I also used my superhuman abilities for this, which gave me a special advantage. Looking back on it, I’m not proud.”
“Trust me, I know what it feels like to look back and feel shame about your actions.”
Chase nodded. “I guess this is why I’ve felt kindness and sympathy for you since you woke. I know the pain of a stained past and the desire to better myself. I want to help you be a better person than the villain you had been. I got a second chance. You deserve one as well.”
He smiled, “thanks.”
Chase gasped, “what the hell?”
Both saw the Fight Club was a smoking hole. The front of the building had been blown off completely, glass and fragments of the building littered the street. Two police cars and an ambulance sat outside.
Running up to the police blocking the public, Chase whipped out her BADGE id. “What happened?”
The officer looked at it with scrutiny and then begrudgingly let her through. “It was some kind of superpower attack. Protesters were gathered and yelling, then someone threw a punch and this happened. Ten people have been put in the hospital. Thankfully, no fatalities, only minor injuries, cept that one dog fellow, he got hit pretty hard.”
“Dog fellow? You don’t mean?”
Just then, Fleagle was rolled out on a stretcher. He was awake, but whimpering like a wounded puppy.
“Fleagle!”
He turned his head toward her. “Chase, what are you doing here?” He wheezed and whimpered.
“What happened? Did a protester do this?”
“I don’t know. I got a face full of something bright and everything went crazy.”
The EMT said, “we have to get him to the hospital.”
They watched him be put into the van. Running inside the building, Chase found the Club Director taking care of a woman who had a severe bruise on her head.
“Don, what the heck happened?”
He looked up. “Chase? Wow, BADGE was quick to respond. This just happened twenty minutes ago.”
“I was on my way for other reasons. Who attacked?”
Don handed the woman a fresh cold compress and then joined Chase and Craig. “Well, a few of our regulars were here early when that protest group showed up. Most of my people left out the back, but Fleagle stayed to help.”
Craig asked, “this, Fleagle, did he do this?”
“Hardly. Fleagle and I held our ground, so the protesters wouldn’t break our windows. They came with these strange objects, crystals I think. They were yelling at us about spreading them around the town. Fleagle yelled at them, then they yelled back and he threw a punch. A woman in the crowd blasted us with a strange light from her mouth and the next thing I know, I’m laying on the floor in the back of the gym with glass all around me. Protesters were everywhere, injured, and Fleagle is out cold.”
“Was the attacker injured as well?”
“I haven’t seen her at all. I tried describing her to the police and EMT, but they didn’t see her. She must’a run.”
Chase said, “Report to Nova about this. We’re going to find her. Come on, Craig.” She dashed out the gaping hole that was at the front of the building.
Nova let out a heavy sigh… again… as he closed out the window from speaking with Don from Oxford.
Gar asked, “what do you think is going on?”
“I don’t know. But somehow the energy crystals we’ve been harvesting are now a part of this strange game.”
“So, you think that the World Corps has something to do with the crystals?”
“I don’t know. But, I don’t believe in coincidence. This is stirring up trouble when the World Corps needs us mired in problems. Our heroes just went into hiding and we’ve gone to silent mode, and suddenly the crystals act strange. That is too convenient for our enemy.”
“More than you think.” A voice spoke behind Nova.
Sirens activated throughout the station and the robots at the computers all stood up, readying weapons. A voice called out, “Intruder Alert!”
Nova looked up to see the ragged old man who called himself Father Time. “What now?”
Father Time held up his hands as Gar went to grab him. “I’m not here to do any harm. I’m here to help.”
Gar took him by the arm and pulled him down the steps to the base level where Nova stood. A dozen lasers were trained on his head. Nova had a hand on his own weapon, but had not pulled it yet. “I find it hard to believe you are here to do anything good.”
“I wouldn’t call it good, just a warning.”
“Warning?”
“Time is broken.”
“What?”
Father Time said, “I have been healing ever since our little battle in your arena. The natural flow of time heals me. However, I noticed something was amiss. Time is fractured. I worried I had damaged it beyond your abilities to repair...”
Gar said, “you wanted to break time, of course it’s fractured.”
Father Time rolled his eyes at the stone hero. “My goals were only to benefit humankind with time compression. It isn’t breaking time, just adjusting how it flows.”
“Enough exposition. What do you mean time is fractured? Did you leave lingering damage?”
“I thought so, but as I examined the flow of time, I realized that this is not just lingering damage. Something or someone is currently damaging it. Something is outside the natural flow of time. However, it is acting in such a way that the natural flow of time is progressing, but with a growing wound.”
“That doesn’t help much. Who or what is doing this?”
“I don’t know. I can’t locate it. Besides, without the clock, my powers would be too weak to fix it.” He gave off a sly smile.
“If this is some ploy to get the clock back, you’re a bigger fool than I already know you to be.”
Father Time’s eyes narrowed. “Obviously, I want the clock back. I know I am the most suited to repairing time issues. But I am not the fool you take me to be. Time is fragile if tampered with too much. We both know this. I’m warning you because, of anyone alive today, you can mend this.”
Nova asked, “does this have anything to do with the growth of the crystals?”
“I don’t know about crystals. But, if strange things are happening, you must treat them as potential elements of this threat.”
There was a long pause as Nova gauged this information. Finally, he asked, “will you aid us in this?”
Father Time shook his head. “I’m still too weak. My health is tied to the flow of time. The more it breaks, the weaker I grow. Unless you give me back the clock, which I know you won’t, I can be of no service other than a warning.”
Nova waved a hand at Gar. “Let him go.”
Gar begrudgingly released the villain.
Nova said, “go, you’re free. If you gain any further insights, bring them to me.”
“I will. Don’t forget what I have done, Nova. You owe me.” With that, Father Time vanished away.
Chase stepped out of a store in Oxford, Englandk, and found Craig flirting with a street vendor of flowers.
“I can’t give you my number right now. It’s a little top secret.” Craig winked at the girl selling flowers.
She giggled at him, her eyes checking over his well-defined physique, which was displayed through his tight clothing. “So, James Bond, what sorta work do you do?”
Chase yanked on his arm to pull him away from this scene. “He’s busy. Come on.”
“Hey, I was just getting info.”
“You were just getting your ego stroked.”
Craig said, “not true. I found out that she saw a woman running away from the explosion.”
Chase stopped, “oh? The shop keeper saw nothing. What did that vendor see?”
“Said this woman was holding her face and running like mad down this street, this way.” he pointed ahead of them.
“Good work. Just remember, we aren’t in the habit of using sex appeal to get information. We’re not that kind of agency.”
He grinned. “I got the info first and then flirted. Nothing wrong with being admired by a cute chick.”
Chase was just about to scold him for that comment when they both heard screaming. A building shook and all the windows on the front of an old warehouse blew out, scattering glass across the street.
The doors opened to the warehouse, and two men came scrambling out. One had a severe burn on his arm. Chase and Craig rushed inside. They found an almost empty warehouse with a middle-aged woman pacing around the floor.
“Ma’am, you might want to leave.” Chase said.
The woman looked up, her eyes wild, her hair a mess, and a large blue crystal in her right hand. She screamed, “I must destroy everything!” following that with a strange light blast from her mouth that cut a hole in a wall.
“Holy crap!” Craig yelled and ducked behind a metal girder.
Chase hid behind an empty shipping crate. “Ma’am! We’re from BADGE. We can help you. You need to stand down!”
“THE WORLD WILL BURN!” Another light blast hit and part of the ceiling came crashing down.
Chase dodged broken shards of sheet metal and found herself in the direct line-of-fire. Another light blast came from the woman’s mouth, but Craig intercepted it. His body flashed a silver sheen, and the energy bounced off of him.
“Good move.” Chase said and then threw a blade at the woman’s hand holding the crystal. It made contact, and the crystal flew from her grip.
Craig picked up an old crowbar and slowly approached. “Look, lady, you gotta stand down.”
Chase said, “we won’t hurt you.”
The woman went wild and screeched. Her mouth produced another ray of light and this time blew an entire wall off the warehouse and destroyed part of a building nearby. The energy didn’t stop coming. She moved her face and more of the warehouse was destroyed, along with part of the street and two cars.
“She’s gonna blow up the city!” Craig said, he rushed toward the woman to tackle her. A blade hit the woman in the arm, and this stopped her for a split second. In that time, Craig got to her, slugged her in the face and then plowed her to the ground.
Chase walked over and checked the woman’s neck. “She’s alive. Good. I didn’t want to have to kill her. Call the local authorities. I need to talk to Nova. This problem just got much, much worse.”
***
Nova stepped out of a BADGE shuttle that landed in the middle of a large industrial compound. Gates and guard towers protected several buildings. The central building was a cavernous storage area where crates were being filled with collected crystals.
A hero rushed up to meet him. “Sir, we’ve found no info from the World Corps here, but they left all the crystals they had collected.”
“Good work. Get out there and help find more of those crystals.” His wrist comm beeped, and he flicked it on. “Nova here.”
Chase appeared on the screen. “Sir, we have encountered something new, and you will not like this.”
“I’m used to bad news. Go ahead.”
“We encountered a civilian holding a crystal. Somehow, it had given her super powers and driven her insane. She destroyed our Fight Club in Oxford and then nearly took out the whole town. Craig and I were able to take her down, but the damage is pretty bad.”
“Any casualties?”
“Not that we’ve found. Fortunately, she chose a pretty abandoned part of town to lose control.”
Nova said, “this further complicates the situation. However, we had a big break today. One of our heroes uncovered a plot by the World Corps to gather and store the excess crystals. They fought off the guards, and we have taken their facility.”
“What does this all mean? How do the World Corps and the crystals connect?”
“I don’t know, but we’re going to find out. I want you and Craig to get the undercover heroes to gather those crystals. We do not need more incidents like the one you just encountered.”
“Understood. Chase out.”
Nova clicked off his comm and met Dr. Henderson as she stepped out of another shuttle from BADGE. A small team of scientist came out with her and immediately went to work unloading equipment.
“Doctor, we have a lot of work ahead of us.”
Dr. Henderson looked at a tablet with a checklist of equipment. “We have spent too many years using these crystals without understanding them enough. At least, that’s how I have always felt. So, this is an opportunity.”
“I just wish we had time to spend on this and not a strict schedule. We need to know everything we can about these crystals and why they are acting strange.”
Dr. Henderson laughed, “we need to first discover what they are all about. We barely know how they work, just that we can use them for special tools and enhancements. I have never been entirely comfortable with the way we use them without fully understanding them.”
“Now’s your chance. As for me, I have an...unfortunate job to do.”
“What do you mean?”
“I need to ask for help from someone, and I’m reluctant to admit it.”
She frowned, “who?”
He cleared his throat, leaned closer to her, and whispered, “I need EB’s help. He...OOF!” A bright white blur blazed past all the security checkpoints and slammed into his side.
EB, clinging to Nova tighter than his own uniform, said, “OMG, OMG, OMG, you said it! You really, really said it! I love to help. I am sooo awesome at hero stuff. I know, I know I have been working for you for a long time now, well not so long when you consider how old I am, but what’s age got to do with anything? This is going to be amazing, EB and Nova, on the job. We’ll be like Sherlock and Watson, Batman and Robin, Laurel and Hardy. Hey, we should get matching hats, or badges, or hey, what about I make us a special chocolate that will be just our own flavor, the Nova and EB Bar. I don’t normally put my name on my own candy, I...” EB was unceremoniously peeled off Nova and dropped to the ground.
Nova let out a calming sigh, which toned his red face down just a few shades. “I’m going to need you to focus. This isn’t about fighting villains, this is about something strange happening that could be fracturing time. You’re very powerful with magic. I’m going to need your help.”
“I’m your magical rabbit. Show me the problem and I will...” he snapped his fingers and a flash of magical light exploded next to him.
Nova said, “you know, I might just ask Santa.”
EB grabbed his leg. “No, let me, let me, let me, pleeeeeeeeese!”
“Fine.”
Delta smiled as he watched the news on the screens in the meeting room. Some screens showed World Corps agents handing out the crystals while others were news services.
“Today, a woman of eighty-two in Toronto, Canada, attacked people in a park near a small farmers’ market. A local unidentified super human helped the police stop her before she did any serious harm. This is the ninth incident in the past two days of reported super humans appearing in public locations and randomly attacking. Authorities are currently not hypothesizing on the reason behind this, however, the UN will make a statement at noon on the situation. This has led people to believe this has something to do with BADGE’s illegal hero activity. We turn to...” the screen went to mute quickly.
Alpha stood behind the table, her hands on her hips. “Care to explain?”
Delta turned in his seat and smiled at her. “Everything is going well, wouldn’t you say?”
“We’re in the middle of a plan that has taken years to perfect. Now, you set off this new scheme right in the middle of it. Why?”
“We need the people to turn against BADGE...”
“And we have done beautifully so far. This development is unnecessary.” She narrowed her eyes at him. “We have to all remain on the same page at all times, no secrets.”
Delta stood from his seat and cracked a smile. “Secrets. Our entire operation is built on layers of secrets.”
Alpha came around the table and typed into the computer, shutting off the news and accessing the communications network. “We may hold secrets the world will not know, but we must be truthful with one another. I’m shutting down this crystal operation of yours. We have to focus on the next phase of the plan.”
Delta pulled her away from the terminal and held her close to him, his fingers pressing into her arms so hard she winced in pain. An honest look of fear filled her eyes. He brought her close to his face. “Never forget who put you in power. Never forget who created the World Corps and crafted this plan. You may be in charge according to the paperwork, but I can bury you in the ocean in a heartbeat and no one will even care. You’ll do what I say when I say it. My plans are not all open and exposed to you or the others. My plans will be fulfilled and in the end, the goal of global control will be achieved. Now, sit down, shut up, and do what I say. Is that understood?” He let go of her.
She backed up and fell into a chair. With a shaky nod, she agreed.
“Good. Now, sit here and monitor the media. I want every station on this planet covering what Beta is about to announce from the U.N. I’m going down to the labs to make sure we’re ready for the roll-out.”
Without letting her respond to him, he left the room.
***
Delta pushed aside a door and entered a nightmare. The room was filled with alcoves that each held a gray-skinned person. The men and women were all hooked up to tubes and nodules. Thousands of these specimens lined the walls, stacked high up, and along massive corridors.
Gamma walked by a row of the people and checked off from a list while Dr. Osteen examined data on two computer screens in the corner.
“Are they ready?” Delta asked.
Gamma turned with a sharp motion. “Oh, Delta, I didn’t see you come in.”
“Are they ready?” He repeated.
“They’re inactive, but ready. At a moment’s notice, we can activate them and they fulfill their programming.”
“Good. Dr. Osteen,” Delta turned to the scientist, “is the harmonic process ready?”
Osteen called up a screen that showed a large crystal and then a flurry of numbers flying by. “As with the first test subjects, the powering worked perfectly. Each of these people are low-grade morphonic conduits. But the crystal energy has made them superb.”
Gamma walked over and frowned at the computer screen. “Crystals?”
Delta said, “yes. We’re harnessing the crystal energy to create the augmentation process.”
“I don’t understand.”
Osteen gleefully answered, “Six years ago, I stumbled across something about morphonic energy. In my study on the anti-morphon weapons, I learned morphons have different frequencies. People who used morphons were aligned with one, sometimes two, of the six different types. It was a breakthrough, but it hardly proved useful until I could study the avatars.” He called up an image from a different lab, six containers each held extremely bright lights floating in them, each a different color.
Delta said, “Dr. Osteen’s work was more groundbreaking than he’ll ever know. Even Legion didn’t know the varied frequency of morphons. Extracting the purest form of them from each of those avatars has given us what we needed.”
Osteen turned to Delta with a curious frown. “How did you know what Legion knew?”
“I know a lot you don’t.” Delta coolly replied and then leaned in, peering at those six cores. “Sadly, these six avatar cores are almost useless to us now. They’re incorruptible. Keeping them simply prevents those avatars from living.”
Gamma asked, “so, what about the crystals?”
Delta smiled, “they give us the power to use morphons, even corrupted morphons. Without them, the whole augmentation process would be impossible.”
Osteen said, “the only problem is that corrupted morphons cause the user to exhibit the worst in his or her personality. They become uncontrollably evil, such as when Arx went mad and destroyed Hollywood.”
Gamma said, “what are you saying? Our army has a limited time usage?”
“Precisely.” Osteen answered.
Delta said, “don’t worry, Gamma. This army is not a permanent source of power, just the last tool before ultimate domination. Everything is going according to plan.”
“No, the plan was to put these people in place and then we use them to control the nations. I was to lead the augment army.”
“And you will, while that part of the plan is enacted.” Delta answered.
“No, it was supposed to be permanent.”
Delta calmly said, “don’t panic, Gamma. Everything will work out perfectly in the end for all of us. Trust me.”
Gamma quietly said, “I will trust the plan.”
“Good.” Delta walked toward the door.
Osteen stopped him. “Sir, one last question, if I may.”
“What?”
“You asked me to program in that special resonance. I did. Every augment contains that special energy signature. However, I have yet to find a reason for it. Care to explain?”
“No.” With no further words, Delta walked out of the room.
EB and Nova watched the news in the back of the BADGE shuttle. A video showed a young boy punching through walls in buildings, then the footage shifted to the boy destroying police cruisers while the local authorities try to apprehend him.
“This was taken from drones and cell phones across several city blocks of New Delhi, India. The boy, who remains unidentified, destroyed six structures, caused serious damage to twelve others buildings, and destroyed five cars. He was finally taken down with help from a local superhero. This marks the seventy-eighth confirmed case of super powered individuals attacking in cities across the planet. BADGE has remained silent and refuses to comment on the situation. Ambassador Ben Talos will address the U.N. later today on this situation.”
Nova hit the mute button. “I wonder what they’ll do next?”
EB hopped around the shuttle. “I don’t see why you don’t let me punch that Ben Talos right in the balls! He’s asking for one hell of a beating, working for the World Corps, duping all of us in BADGE, being a total, big fat jerk.”
“Attacking him would only prove we’re villains. He’s viewed as just a peaceful functionary of the U.N. We can’t accuse him of villainy, we have little proof of that.”
EB punched the wall. “That big jerk. They set us all up to look bad and then we take the fall without being able to respond. I want to just shove an egg right up his...”
“Enough. Being angry doesn’t solve problems.” Nova said.
EB hopped up to the seat next to him and sat down. “I know. It’s just, all the heroes are my buddies. Now, my buddies are being treated like crooks while the real crooks are getting away with it.”
“We’ll find the answer. They’ll slip up some day. Right now, we have a much more important task to take care of.” Nova watched as they passed through a security barrier outside Neo Utopia and came in for a quick landing in a parking lot.
The moment they exited the shuttle’s aft door, five goons from Rutkowski’s gang met them with Tommy guns.
“Hold it, ya knuckleheads, we’s workin with BADGE right now.” Rutkowski walked up.
Nova greeted him with a quick head nod. “Rutkowski.”
“If ya here bout my top goon hoarding da crystals. I let one of ya heroes take em. Steelfist is pay’n fer disobeying me, trust me.”
“What did he say? I can barely understand him.” EB whispered.
Nova answered EB, “Steelfist stockpiled up some crystals and tried to use them to give himself superpowers. But Rutkowski stopped him and made him turn them over. And I trust Rutkowski to deal with his own people.”
“Glad we’re on da same page.” Rutkowski said.
Just then, Peyton stepped up. “Ah, Nova, you said you were gonna stop by. We got the city under strict lock-down. No World Corps idiots allowed in here.”
“I’m not here about the World Corps. I’m here about a different situation. Both of you have time powers. I need to know if either of you have felt strange fluctuations in time. Fractures or something else like them.”
Both enemies gave each other a curious look, then both nodded. Peyton said, “I have felt something isn’t quite right. I couldn’t put my finger on it.”
Rutkowski said, “ya, things feel just...I dunno...off. Not like when ole Father Time made a mess before.”
Peyton added, “true. This is new. The damage to time from Father Time’s last incursion has been fixed. This is new.”
“Can you give me anything else to go on? Father Time paid me a visit, warned me that this was a real problem.”
“You gonna trust that geezer?” Rutkowski asked.
“I don’t think Father Time would pay me a visit just to warn me of something he’s up to. He was worried, and that worries me.”
Rutkowski narrowed his eyes at Peyton. “You good to help with this?”
“Let’s just do it.”
Both closed their eyes and put one hand out to the other. Touching palms, they quietly waited while they worked through this. Finally, they opened their eyes with a look of agreement between them.
Peyton said, “we can feel the fracture time, but it’s moving in waves. The waves are coming from an eastern direction.”
Rutkowski added, “far off, not just to the coast of the states. Real far off. I bet if ya get closer, the time fracture will get stronger.”
“Thanks. Peyton, could you join me? I could use your help as well in finding this.”
“Sure.”
“Hey, you don’t trust me?” Rutkowski asked.
“No. But that’s not why I’m not asking you to come.” Nova said. “Right now, your gang and the Neo Utopia police are the only reason the World Corps hasn’t overrun this city. There are a lot of scared meta-humans here hiding out. I don’t want to see them hurt.”
“I’ll buy dat. Good luck.”
The large mega-screen in downtown Neo Utopia, normally running paid ads, shifted to the International News. “Breaking News from the United Nations.”
The screen changed to the floor of the United Nations. Ben Talos stood with a contingent of representatives as he read from a prepared paper.
“It has become apparent that BADGE is conducting the worst security scam in the history of mankind. They’ve set dozens, possibly hundreds, of super powered people loose to cause havoc. Then, they send in their heroes to save the day to re-assert their domination as our only hope for protection from dangerous meta-humans. The United Nations not only condemns this scam, we have now asked the World Corps to send in their own superhumans to provide the security that BADGE has denied us. This act will secure our people and provide peace in this troubled time. The United Nations will take a vote on this soon. This announcement is directed at BADGE. Your time protecting this world is over and you must admit defeat and accept the proper punishment for your actions.”
The screen exploded in a spray of sparks as Rutkowski showered it with bullets from a tommy gun. “Dat rat!”
EB jumped up and threw an egg that exploded against the screen. “Ya. Take that!”
Peyton held his face while Nova said, “destroying public property won’t solve anything.”
EB snarled, “but it felt good.”
Rutkowski held up his gun. “You want me and my men to plug that stuffed shirt mouthpiece of the World Corps?”
“Sadly, your men would likely all perish. The World Corps is stronger than you think. No, we’ll deal with this. Just keep this city safe.” He walked toward the shuttle, but stopped to add, “But, if one of those augmented people shows up to enforce their will on this city...do what you have to do.”
Rutkowski smiled, still holding that gun. “With pleasure.”
Gar walked across the storage facility that BADGE was using to gather the strange crystals and study them. Agent Justin waved at him to come to the laboratory section. Suddenly, a hole opened and Nightshadow appeared with an armload of crystals.
“Where do I put these?”
Gar jumped back in shock and then pointed toward the bins in the second building. “Take them there. The agents will sort them.”
“Gotcha.” Nightshadow strolled on.
Gar gathered his wits and found Justin with Dr. Henderson and several other BADGE scientists.
“Oh, Gargoyle, good. Have you heard from Nova?” Justin asked.
“No. He left for his special mission with EB. Why?”
“I have important news.” Dr. Henderson held up her computer tablet. “You’re the senior official here, so I need to report to you.”
“Me? But, Justin...” Gar pointed at the man next to him.
“I’m in charge of the agents, but I report to either you, Nova, or Chase...and sometimes Strange Quark. The only one here is you, so that leaves you in charge.”
“Oh...uh...okay. What did you find?” Gar put on a stern face, as he imagined Nova would look.
Dr. Henderson walked over to an area where several other scientists were busy at work with crystals and large computers. “We have determined that the crystals directly result from Morphonic Energy.”
Gar asked, “but the crystals haven’t been on Earth for a long time?”
“We have always known that they are a recent development, and the scientific community suspected they were connected to morphons. However, extensive testing has not been conclusive. Right now, though, with all these crystals and the accelerated growth, we are able to understand them better.”
Gar asked, “if Legion sent the Morphons to Earth, and the Morphons create the crystals, is this just part of what Legion wanted?”
“Not exactly. Dr. Bigos, if you would.”
A bald man turned a swiveled computer screen to show his myriad of data. “Our sun emits a sort of radiation that is rare. It is otherwise harmless and has gone relatively unnoticed by astronomy until this incident. That radiation reacts with the morphons and causes the crystals to grow. It forces the unique frequencies of morphons to bond together.”
Dr. Henderson said, “what we found is that these crystals aren’t all the same. Each is 99.89 percent identical, however that last tiny percentage makes a pretty big difference. The morphons inside them resonate with one of the six known frequencies, making each crystal slightly skewed toward one morphon element or another.”
Justin asked, “how does this help explain the current situation. Why are they giving people powers? Why are they growing so much faster?”
“We don’t have those answers. I’m afraid it would take a lot more time to figure that out on our own.”
Justin said, “we need answers soon. If the World Corps is behind this, we need everything we can to stop them.”
Dr. Henderson calmly answered, “we’re already working on a way to, hopefully, expedite answers. We’re going to wake up one of the sedated Avatars and hope they can provide answers.”
Gar said, “but they’re permanently put to sleep by the World Corps. How do you wake one?”
Another doctor walked over, holding one crystal. “I’ve been studying the Avatar’s data. They aren’t living beings like you or me, they are much more like our Mr. Gar here.”
“Me? How?”
She touched his chest, “you’re made of stone, you’re not a living being by biological standards. However, you were crafted out of raw materials and then given life through a core of energy. It’s the same for all the avatars. They each contained that sort of core. We saw this when they first arrived. Now, when we study them, we find that the core energy is missing.”
Dr. Henderson took the crystal from her associate. “That’s where these come in. We believe we can craft a core of the same harmonic energy type of one avatar and introduce it to them. If all goes well, it’ll work like a transplanted organ and they’ll come back to life.”
Justin said, “that’s a stretch. Bringing them back will be hard, hoping they have answers is just a gamble.”
“We can only hope.”
***
Delta sat with Alpha and Gamma in the meeting room. Beta remained on a screen, remotely joining from the U.N. HQ in New York.
“Are you sure this will work?” Gamma asked.
Delta nodded, “yes. The mercs will make the drop off in a few moments, and we’ll sit back and watch the mayhem.”
Beta looked over the sheet of paper. “I gave you these twenty locations. I can get at least ten more in moments. Protests are popping up across the world hourly after this vote was announced.”
“No, these twenty will do fine. Just be ready to grab the attention of the news before BADGE has a chance to say something, even through their sycophants at the Sentinel.”
Alpha slapped the table, “this is completely unnecessary. We have BADGE on the run. The public opinion continually grows our direction. Why send more crystals out to random people and cause trouble at these protest rallies?”
Delta sat forward with rage in his eyes. “Because, BADGE is still allowed out there. No one has fully called for the sweeping arrests of anyone connected to BADGE. I want Nova cowering on his pathetic little space station, unable to return to this planet before we complete this. I need him out of the way! Our plan is moving too slowly!”
Gamma kindly said, “but, sir, BADGE has gone into hiding. Everyone fears them. The public loves our heroes and looks to them for security. What if one man is still free? What good is Nova without BADGE having power?”
“Nova is a dangerous man! More dangerous than any of you can possibly fathom!” Delta spent a moment fuming while the others gave him strange looks. He suddenly snapped to a screen and pointed at a merc waiting, “deploy! Now!”
***
A crowd of anti-BADGE protesters filled the street in front of the local Fight Club in Mexico City. They carried signs and chanted against BADGE and its heroes. The club director and two heroes stood outside to protect the place from property damage. Even when bottles and trash were thrown at them, they remained stoic and calm, not responding.
“Get out of our city! We don’t want villains here!” A man yelled and threw a baseball at the head of a woman in superhero tights.
She caught the ball and dropped it on the ground without flinching.
This same pattern of violence had continued for three days, with the heroes remaining silent and still in the face of this anger.
A man ran up between the club and the protesters and yelled, “if they were villains, wouldn’t they have hurt us by now? Think! They are good people!”
This was met by a hard right hook and he went down. The crowd turned even more violent after that.
The director tapped the hero on his right and whispered, “look up there?”
Both saw darkly dressed World Corps mercs watching. Before either could do something about this, five different people went wild with powers blasting through the crowds. Bodies crashed into each other and the pavement exploded. Random civilians held those powered crystals and were attacking like mad people.
The last thing the club director saw were the eye-beams from a fourteen-year-old girl before his body was thrust back through the glass doors of the club.
Nova quietly waited while the BADGE shuttle zoomed across the skies, going unnoticed by anyone while under its own invisibility cloak. EB and Peyton were along for the ride.
“This is pretty good stuff.” Peyton ate on a rather large chocolate egg that had an orange colored filling.
EB bounced around the cabin like a toddler on a long car trip. “That’s my all-in-one meal egg. It tastes like candy, but fills you up like a good meal. I wanted to market it, but I realized I had to use magic to make it and Santa said that using too much magic on humans could be bad. I don’t mind it, it makes a nice thing to make for friends. I have lots and lots of friends. Nova is my bestest buddy and then there’s Gar, and the hotty Chase, and all the heroes, and Santa. I wish Easter was bigger than Christmas, but Santa gets all the breaks. He just does his job so well that I can’t complain. I love his toys, he makes really awesome toys, there was this one...”
Peyton groaned and held up his hand. “I’m sensing stronger currents in time. We’re getting closer to the disturbance.”
EB turned and his ears perked up, taller than normal. “I sense it too. This is bad, really, really bad.”
Nova said, “this is part of the reason you’re with us, EB. Do your thing.”
“Oh, right.” He hopped up to the front of the cabin next to the pilot and then waved his paws in the air. A bright purple flash exploded out from the shuttle. Instantly, large bubbles appeared in the surrounding sky. “Watch out!” EB yelled.
The pilot turned hard to avoid contact with a bubble.
Peyton asked, “what are those?”
EB peered out the front window. “Those are time disturbances. We’re getting closer to the source of the problem. They shouldn’t be too bad right now, not really that far outside of normal time. But, if we intersect one, it might cause some strange effects on you guys, since you both have time powers.”
Nova stood from his seat and also looked out the window. There was a strange seriousness etched into his face. “Pilot, where are we heading?”
“We are on course for Egyptian airspace.”
EB looked up at Nova. “You don’t think...”
“It’s possible.”
Peyton asked, “what?”
Nova coldly answered, “I think I know exactly where we are heading.”
***
Chase and Craig arrived at the collection area where Justin and Gar managed the crystal stockpile. Dr. Henderson had her staff working diligently in the middle of a warehouse as they prepared a strange contraption.
“What is going on?” Chase asked.
Gar met her, “we’re going to wake an avatar.”
“What?”
Justin explained, “Dr. Henderson feels we can awaken an avatar with enough morphonic energy from the crystals. I’m having the selected avatar brought down from the station right now.”
“Has Nova returned from his private little mission?” Chase asked.
“No, and somehow that makes me nervous.” Justin answered.
Craig said, “oh, why worry about the old fart? Nova is a tough guy. He can handle himself.”
Chase said, “if you ever want to be an agent of BADGE, you’ll never call him an old fart again.”
Chase’s comm badge activated. She flicked it on. “Chase here.”
“This is Chaz, you need to turn on the news now! No time to explain.”
She gestured at Justin, and he ran over to the main computer monitor. They were met by the face of Judge Alpha from the World Corps, speaking to the United Nations.
“It is with a heavy heart that we fulfill this agreement. I thank the United Nations for putting such faith in the World Corps and hope this is the first step in a long and fruitful relationship. The World Corps will place heroes at all capitals across the planet. Hopefully, our heroes will deter further BADGE attacks, however if there is another attack, they are trained and ready to handle the situation. Fear not, the World Corps will keep this world safe.”
A great deal of applause followed as she stepped back for Beta to take the stand. “Thank you, Judge Alpha. As of three PM Eastern Standard Time, the United Nations has declared that all of BADGE is now considered a criminal agency and all of their agents, heroes, and their leader Nova are wanted. Every nation aligned with the United Nations has issued arrest warrants for all BADGE officials, and Interpol has issued a red notice in the name of each member of BADGE. The priority targets are the heroes and their leader, Director Nova. Under the authority of the United Nations and the signed agreement of all nations involved, all World Corps Heroes are hereby ordered to arrest on sight any member of BADGE, if they resist, you may use any and all abilities you have to remove them as a threat, including execution. We will make this world safe! We will have justice!” This drew a loud eruption of applause from the members of the United Nations.
Justin turned off the sound and quietly looked at Chase. “Someone has to warn Nova. If those world corps augments see him, they’ll murder him.”
Chase shook her head, “trust me, he’s a survivor. Right now, we have to keep our heroes safe. Justin, contact all leagues and tell them they must evac to either North Onnotangu or the station. No other options are available.”
Justin said, “what about Neo Utopia?”
Chase shook her head. “Neo Utopia will remain a haven for non-BADGE meta humans. Gar, get in touch with Prime Minister Shizue and tell her she will be housing a lot more guests. Dr. Henderson, work faster.”
“What can I do?” Craig asked.
Chase smiled at him. “Help protect this place. We may not have much time to find answers before we must flee.”
***
Nova turned off the monitor in the shuttle. He, too, watched the same announcement from the UN.
“Do you want me to do something about this?” EB asked in a kind voice.
Nova shook his head, “no. We’re almost there.”
“Sir! The shuttle instruments are really going crazy.” The pilot announced.
Peyton stood up and pointed, “look!”
They were approaching what looked like a fountain of light coming up from a craggy canyon in the desert.
EB jumped to the front of the shuttle and slapped his paws on the dash. All the controls returned to normal. “There ya go. Good as new, for now.”
“Uh, thanks.”
“Take us down.”
The shuttle landed, and they all disembarked, save the pilot. Before them was a narrow opening in the cliff that opened up wide to a tall, walled crevasse with a strange temple. Stone statues lined the walls, each holding enormous weapons. A throne was at the back with a hole where a jewel once rested. Someone stood before the throne, holding the air with his hands. It appeared as though he were holding brightly colored fabric in the air, which the energy fountain spewed up from.
“What is this place?” Peyton asked.
Nova answered, “the Throne of the Defender, a temple built using ancient, forgotten powers.”
“Who did they worship? Ra?”
“This is not a place of worship, it was a prison. It is a long story and we don’t have time.”
Marching up to the throne, Nova taped the shoulder of the man standing there.
Strange Quark looked back with a smile. “Oh, good. I wondered how long it would be before you got here.”
“What are you doing to time?”
Quark nodded his head toward the rift in his hands. “Right now, doing my best to keep it from breaking. This is one nasty gash in time.”
“Did you cause it?”
“Nope. But I can tell you that something is trying to get through, something incredibly powerful. And what scares me most...I don’t know what it is.”
“What do you mean you don’t know what is on the other side?” Nova asked.
Quark, holding the growing hole in time together, said, “something, or rather someone, is trying to come through. I felt this days ago and raced here to stop it.”
“And you decided not to report this?”
Quark shrugged. “Everyone is busy with the World Corps nonsense. I thought this would be easier. I thought it was just a tear in time from all the damage Father Time did during his two attacks this year. It turned out to be something completely different. Once I got this under control, it became impossible to move or lose that control. I knew someone would eventually come. This hole is still getting larger, even with me holding it back.”
Peyton asked, “do you think this has anything to do with the World Corps?”
“I have no idea.” Quark said.
Nova shook his head. “I may have been wrong to assume that part of their plot. This might be something completely different. This is bad. If we have an incursion by a dangerous force while the World Corps is enacting their plans, we could be in serious trouble.”
EB hopped up and smacked Nova on the shoulder. “Don’t be such a Debbie Downer, bud. We’ve handled worse. Remember when Jinn unleashed ghosts all over the world and turned himself into the devil? We got through that, didn’t we?”
“This is different. That was one enemy with one plan.” Nova said.
Peyton sat down on a broken piece of a statue. “This is one hell of a doozy. I...woah!” He fell off the stone as it lifted and joined back together with other stones to reform the statue.
“What the?” EB hopped around, avoiding more stones that moved backward in time to return to an earlier state.
Quark strained as he said, “time...is breaking...this is about to open...I can’t hold it alone.”
“Gotcha!” EB held up his paws and created a bright flash of light. The time reversals slowed down.
Quark strained, “thanks, but this is still growing. We have to stop this.”
Nova took in a deep breath and released it slowly. He held up a hand and the time disturbances stopped. The statues repairing themselves froze in place.
Peyton rubbed his hands together and prepared to use his own powers, but Nova stopped him. “No. You must leave!”
“What? I can help. I’m not as powerful as you, but I can help.”
Nova pointed with his free hand. “Get out of here. Take the shuttle back to the crystal drop zone.”
EB said, “buddy, we can use all the help we can get.”
Nova said, “no. We’re strong enough to hold time together inside this place. We can stay here for years inside this pocket of time. Whatever is trying to come through must be held at bay until the heroes have dealt with the World Corps’ plans.”
“What do you want me to do?” Peyton asked.
“Go back to Chase. Tell her she is now in charge of BADGE. Tell her to never come here, send no one else here to save us. We’ll stay here until we no longer can hold this place. When the heroes are strong enough, when the World Corps is defeated, then we will face what comes through that rift.”
EB said, “he’s right. My candy factories will go on without me, but this world might not survive two invasions at once. Go.”
Peyton gave a quick nod and then ran, leaving the three heroes behind to keep time from breaking.
***
Chase walked with Justin around the storage facility. Heroes stood guard along the fences. A small clutch of heroes sat around a tall, bald man in a lab coat. Each held their heads with fierce concentration.
“Dr. Stone, how goes the deflection?”
The bald black man smiled as he answered, “right now the World Corps heroes are attacking a compound ninety miles from us.”
“I hope they aren’t hurting anyone?” She asked.
He laughed, “nope. They’re destroying an abandoned depot with no living soul inside. We have their minds twisted in a deep fantasy.”
“Keep it up.”
Justin held up his comm to his ear. “Alright. Landing zone two is open.”
A blustery breeze cut through the grounds as a cloaked shuttle landed.
“Chase!” Gar waved at her from inside the main building.
“What is it?” She approached.
He smiled and pointed at the table in the middle of the room, surrounded by computers and scientists. “Dr. Henderson said she has good news.”
“Doctor?”
Dr. Henderson came up and showed her the computer tablet. “We have gathered enough magic morphon energy to attempt a resuscitation of the magic avatar. It’ll be strange reviving a book, but I suppose it will be the same process as any of them.”
“Then, get to it. We need answers fast.”
Dr. Henderson gave the go-ahead to her team, and everyone jumped into action.
“Chase! Chase!” Peyton came running up, out of breath. He stopped and held his knees. “Boy, I gotta start jogging or something. I am outta breath.”
“Peyton? Where’s Nova and EB?” She looked around.
“That’s why I’m here. We found the source of the time fractures. It’s a place in the middle of Egypt. Strange Quark was there, trying to keep it together. But it only got worse. The place was going nuts, everything reverting in time. Worst of all, some kinda strange creature is trying to come through.”
“Damn. This is not the time for some alien invasion. Our heroes are currently scattered, running from the World Corps and the United Nations. I will have to contact...”
“No! He doesn’t want you to send help.”
This stopped her cold. “No help? He can’t possibly try to fight something like this on his own.”
Peyton said, “he aint trying that. Nova, EB, and Quark are holding that pocket of broken time together. Their combined powers are awesome. But the catch is they gotta stay there. They’ll stay there until we find a solution to the World Corps problem.”
“But who will lead BADGE if Nova is stuck there?” Justin asked.
“He put Chase in charge.”
“Me?”
“Yeah, you. He trusts you to save this world.”
Chase stood there in stunned silence.
Gar gently asked, “are you okay?”
“I...I don’t know. I feel like we just lost him. I’m not ready for this.”
Justin said, “all you can do is take it one step at a time. We have a crisis on our hands and need leadership. Right now, that’s you.”
“What do I do first?”
Dr. Henderson came over. “We’re ready to revive.” She frowned at Chase. “Something the matter?”
“No.” Chase straightened her shoulders and said, “go ahead.”
Dr. Henderson pressed a button on her tablet, and everyone waited. Five lasers emitted energy drawn from stockpiles of crystals. Each beam met in the center of the area, charging a focusing apparatus. Finally, a single beam came from the center and hit the book. The process was quick and everything went dark.
“Well?” Chase asked.
Before Dr. Henderson could answer, the book opened and closed on its own. It lifted into the air and gained the magical aura normally around it. A wave of glee swept through the room, but was soon replaced when a loud, screeching scream came from the book and it changed colors. A blast of magic exploded out from it and destroyed all the equipment while throwing everyone back.
“I MUST DESTROY EVERYTHING!” the book boomed, then sent another wave out that destroyed part of the building. Several heroes attacked it, but they were quickly subdued by its formidable powers.
“It’s registering massive amounts of unstable morphonic energy!” Dr. Henderson yelled.
Chase slapped her comm badge. “All heroes who can hear my voice, we need you at my location. NOW!”
A bright blue explosion of energy erupted from the center of the storage facility, destroying most of the buildings and sending unfastened objects flying away. Heroes were tossed by this hurricane of power, slammed into random debris and each other. At the epicenter of the explosion was the Avatar of Magic, corrupted by the unnatural crystals used to craft an artificial heart.
Gar sat up from the attack and then quickly turned and covered Chase with his body, his wings acting like a wall behind him. Another wave of energy exploded out, destroying the energy barrier protecting the facility from prying eyes.
“We can’t stop this thing!” Chase yelled.
“We have to try!” Admiral Prometheus replied and then let loose a blast of mental energy at the enemy.
The floating book was pushed down toward the ground by the force of the mental strain.
Dr. Stone joined Prometheus and used his mental powers to further attack the enemy. He said, through his mind, “this avatar is weaker to mental attacks. We can suppress its awesome strength.”
More heroes with mental powers joined the battle and attacked the avatar with their minds. The book closed up and the glowing energy from it dimmed.
Nightshadow called out, “everyone else! Get ready!” He held up his hands and then slammed them to the ground. A great wave of shadow spread out and heroes vanished like the floor had dropped beneath them.
One by one, heroes appeared out of dark circles near the Avatar of Magic and attacked it, giving it no chance to see them coming. All the while, it was being restrained further by the mental onslaught.
“We can do it!” Hotwings called out and blasted the avatar with lasers.
All at once, there came a concussive wave of sound and force at the same time. The book released another explosion and the attack against it was stopped. The heroes moving via shadow were thrown first, the mental attackers all hit the ground, holding their heads in agony.
A ball of energy formed in the center of the Avatar as it prepared yet another eruption of magical energy.
“WATCH OUT!” Nightshadow slapped the ground again and all the heroes vanished for a single moment in a dark void.
The wave of magic spread out, sending even more of the debris scattering further away.
Everyone reappeared and gasped in a breath. Chase demanded, “what did you just do to us, Nightshadow?”
He gave off a coy grin. “You were compressed into a black hole for a fraction of time. Sorry.”
“Don’t be. You saved us. But, that was...uncomfortable.”
Dr. Stone held up both hands to his head and focused his mind. “We have to hold it at bay!”
“That didn’t work last time.” Chase said.
Dr. Henderson ran over. “It helped. The magical power of the avatar is off the scale. However, as the heroes use mental attacks, the frequencies of the magical morphons become unstable. If we can destabilize it long enough, we might unravel the corrupted magic and bring it down. We need magically inclined heroes to attack it when it is at its most vulnerable.”
Chase clicked her comm. “Krystal Fae, we need magic support, now!”
She responded, “on our way, I have The Wizard with me and Santa. We felt the magical disturbance.”
“Get here! I don’t know how long the heroes can hold it at bay.”
“On it.”
Chase looked at the avatar, listening to it screech and the heroes contend with its random acts of magic. “Gar, I’m not ready for this. This world is not safe in my hands.”
“BADGE is in your hands, not the world.”
“Right now, it feels like the same thing.”
The Wizard rode on the back of his dragon with Santa’s sleigh to his right, and Krystal Fae to his left.
“Do you see what I’m seeing?” The Wizard pointed down.
Krystal flew up closer. “Yes. There must be several hundred World Corp merc vehicles in that convoy.”
The Wizard said, “I see some U.N. Military, U.S. Military, and about five dozen of those augmented heroes. Where do you think they’re heading?”
“The same place we are.”
The Wizard frowned. “They’re heading to help stop the avatar?”
“No. I think they’re heading in to attack the heroes.”
“This isn’t good.”
Santa called out, “we don’t have time to worry about them. If we don’t stop that avatar, this entire world is in danger.”
“You’re right, of course. Come on, let's move!” The Wizard coaxed his dragon along and all three sped up.
The trio of magical heroes covered the distance quickly. The night sky was broken by the amazing light ahead of them. Where the storage facility was, there was now just debris and a circle of heroes defending themselves from the unrelenting attacks by the avatar. A large group of heroes stood off to the side, focusing their minds on the avatar.
“I can sense it. The avatar’s magical power is weak. We can strike.” The Wizard said.
Santa said, “we have little time. Those mental heroes are about to lose their grip on it.”
Krystal charged her hands with magic. “Then we take it down.”
She stopped about ten feet above the avatar and stuck her hands into the air like she was pushing her fingers into a wall of thin glass. The air cracked and crumbled. Santa joined her on the other side, pushing his hands into the strange field of magic around it. Finally, The Wizard and his dragon met this magical barrier and crashed right through it.
The book lost the light emitting from it and fell to the ground. It screamed and screeched, blasting magical attacks that were far less threatening than before.
The Wizard landed right next to it and put his hands inside the pages. He chanted a strange language and pulled his hand up. A blue light with shadows of black flowing through it stretched out of the book like pulling gum from a sidewalk. It held tight for a moment, but then burst free. He threw the energy into the air. Krystal Fae and Santa destroyed it with two well-placed blasts of light.
Everything quieted down, the book now closed and laying on the ground. There was a hesitant calm, followed by a slight movement from the heroes. Dr. Henderson ran a quick scan from a distance and then rushed over to the avatar. She smiled and called out, “it’s back to dormant. All signs of the corrupt energy are gone.”
This created a fresh wave of relief among the heroes. The injured were quickly tended to while the exhausted spent a moment gathering their wits.
“Chase!” The Wizard ran over to her with Krystal Fae behind him.
“What?”
“We have another problem.”
She almost asked when they heard a distinct rumbling in the distance. “What is that?”
Krystal said, “the problem. A massive army of World Corps mercs and augments are coming and they have backup from the U.N. This place is about to be overrun.”
The news seemed to overwhelm Chase for a moment. She lost most color in her face and she looked for rescue from anyone. Santa jumped down from his sleigh and came over to her. “Angela, the wise course of action is retreat. The heroes here are in no shape to fight that force, and even if they did, it would just start a war. That is what the World Corps has been trying to do all along.”
She gave a quick nod and then looked over at Justin. “Sound the evac, tell everyone to head for the station and orbital arena.”
“Right away.”
Santa smiled. “I will do what I can to stall them. Get these people to safety.”
“I will, father. Just...don’t get hurt.”
“Bah! I can handle a few hundred enemies. Besides, I’m not going to fight them, just distract.”
Soon, the gathered heroes and BADGE scientists were evacuating the area quickly. Heroes that could teleport were working hard to move everyone. Chase had to stop Midgard and others like him from going full rogue and attacking that approaching army. For her first days as leader, this was a trial by fire.
Heroes evacuated the storage facility, what was left of it after the battle. The non-meta humans working for BADGE gathered up the scientific equipment with the help of heroes and got it safely away. A small team of specialists collected up the now dormant Avatar of Magic and returned it to a safe holding unit to escort it back to the station where the other Avatars were kept.
“Director Chase!” Dr. Henderson ran up to her, with Dr. Stone beside her.
“Please, don’t start calling me Director.”
“Nova left you in charge. That makes you the temporary Director.”
“I know. But it feels like we’ve given up on him and I can’t stand that thought. What did you need?”
Dr. Stone stepped up. “Chase, I was linked with the mind...if that’s what you can call it...of the Avatar for a brief time. There’s a living being inside that book.”
“I know. BADGE has declared all the avatars sentient beings, Dr. Henderson filed that report herself.” Chase gestured to the other doctor.
Henderson said, “I determined sentience based on the factors of life according to science, save perhaps the ability to procreate. The Avatars exhibit the qualities of sentience. However, Dr. Stone has tapped into something I never could, the mind inside the being.”
“What’s wrong?” Chase sensed this wasn’t good news.
Dr. Stone softly said, “it’s in great pain. Even in the state of sleep, there’s mental activity at a minor level. I believe all the Avatars are like this. They’re in great pain and sorrow. They are hollow and it is nearly unbearable.”
“What does this mean?”
Dr. Henderson said, “it means we need to find the core stolen from each of them. If we learned anything from this failed experiment, its they need their original core to thrive. They’re innocent beings, infants just learning to live, and they had their hearts ripped out.”
Chase watched a shuttle leave with a large contingent of supers flying along to protect it. “Look, this is scientifically fascinating and I do feel bad for them. But we have a lot on our plate right now.”
Dr. Stone said, “I know, and I didn’t bring this up just to ask for help to save them. I also tapped into another thought within the avatar. Fear.”
“Fear?”
“Yes. It is horribly afraid. Something is coming, something so terrible, so unbalanced in the morphons, that it is scared. If something that powerful, that in-touch with the balance of the morphons, is so scared, we should find out what it is.”
“That’ll be your task, Doctor, when we get back.”
Just then Santa came swooping down. Hovering over the ground in his sleigh, he called out. “I stalled them as long as I could. They’re almost here. Looks like you are nearly evacuated. Get out, now!”
Chase looked around and found the heroes and support staff were nearly all gone. There was but one team coming up and she was worried about this group. Midgard stomped over in his fullest form, with Skelanimal behind him, as well as the others from their teams.
“I DON’T RUN FROM A FIGHT!” Midgard bellowed.
Chase huffed, “you will today. We can’t...”
“I DON’T RUN FROM A FIGHT, LITTLE GIRL, OR DON’T YOU KNOW HOW TO LISTEN!”
Skelanimal cracked his bony knuckles. “I wouldn’t mind punching a few stupid World Corps jerks.”
“I’m the current leader of BADGE, which means you will listen to me...”
“I ONLY LISTEN TO NOVA, AND ONLY WHEN IT SUITS MY PLEASURE!”
Santa kindly interjected, “if you would allow me, Angela?” She gave him a nod, and he lifted higher. “Look here, world eater, Nova has known you longer than any other living being on this planet. You listen to him because there is a genuine fear of him in you.”
“I FEAR NOTHING!!!”
“Really?” Santa waited.
Midgard sneered, not admitting what was behind that fear Santa spoke of. But, by his silence, there was admission.
Santa continued, “now, while my daughter is working in his stead, you’ll obey her as much as you obeyed Nova.”
“Fine.” Midgard shrank down to his human size and joined his team as they left for the station.
Chase said, "I know it is hard to not fight when we all want to, including me. But, Nova's right, we fight back, it will be a war. Sadly, it will kill a lot of civilians. The World Corps will put this world in the middle of that fight and billions of lives will be in danger. We will figure this out, I promise. Just...trust me."
Santa looked at his daughter. “Time to go. They’ll come over that hill in moments.”
Chase joined the others in the last portal crafted by The Wizard that led them away from this place and back to the safety of the space station.
***
Delta coolly watched the screens as the videos from the attempted raid on BADGE’s location failed. Alpha sat with him while Gamma and Beta were on screen in smaller windows.
“All your clever plans, Delta, and BADGE escaped.” Alpha stated.
Delta laughed, “BADGE ran back to their station where they’ll be nearly impossible to assault. But it got them out of the way. What we didn’t see was their pathetic leader. I wanted Nova’s head on my desk, and I’m still waiting for that.”
Gamma asked, “what’s so important about this Nova? He doesn’t seem to be a priority target.”
Alpha held up a computer tablet. “We have our augments stationed in every capital on this planet. Every state, prefecture, province, everywhere except Neo Utopia and North Onnotangu, and they hardly count in the grand scheme of things. What more do you need? Not one leader on this planet can make a move, write a law, sneeze, without us knowing. We can control them...”
“My plans are still not finished.”
Gamma demanded, “what more do you need!?”
“Power beyond anything your little minds can possibly imagine. I’m about to roll out the next phase...”
“Next phase, next phase?” Beta huffed. “We’ve moved to the ultimate phase of this. BADGE is on the run. Their heroes and agents are all wanted and will face prison or death. We control the world. There are no more phases to this plan.”
“There are moves left in this game. Especially with Nova still out there. I have to take him, otherwise all this will fall apart.”
“Pray tell, what are the moves left in this game so we can at least have some notion of when it will finally be done for?” Alpha asked sarcastically.
Delta almost answered, but then lurched forward. His face shifted slightly, gaining scales and a greenish tint for a second, then back to human. “No...it can’t be. This is not possible. He should be dead!”
“Who?”
Delta looked up and whispered, “The General.”
***
The time pocket in Egypt remained held by the four. Quark stood at the threshold of the rip in time while EB, Nova, and Peyton prevented it from breaking any further.
“So...you wanna play a word game while we stand here for eternity?” EB ventured.
Nova groaned, “of all the mythics to be stuck with.”
“Hey, you invited me.”
“I know, and I have forever to regret that decision.”
Peyton chuckled at that comment while EB frowned at him. “Fine, be rude. I’m only helping save your world.”
“I’m sorry, I just...”
There was a great flash of light, and the pocket of time rippled.
Quark cried out, “Something is pushing really hard. I can’t...hold it.”
“But, why?” Nova asked. “The four of us should be able to stop this.”
Quark struggled with the tear. “Something is wrong. Someone in here is connected to this time fracture. It’s causing an inversion.”
“Someone here is part of the time problem?” Peyton asked.
Quark was thrown back when the tear exploded. He landed on the ground between them. The bubble of frozen time burst, and the statues continued reverting to less damaged forms. Quark said, “yes. The time fracture is connected to someone here.”
Suddenly, standing on the plateau above them around the rim of the crevasse, were strange looking robots with heavy weaponry. A figure stepped through the rip in time. As soon as he did, the rift shut itself and all the time fluctuations stopped.
Nova readied himself for a fight, but stopped the moment he saw the man standing before him.
Quark scrambled to his feet, an honest look of shock on his face.
Peyton had his gun out, but stopped short of taking aim.
EB gasped and then said, “but...that’s not possible.”
The man had a craggy face and an eye-patch. He bore red, battle scarred armor and a confident gait. “Hello, name’s General Nova.”
“You...are me?” Nova asked.
“Yep. I’m here to save our future by helping you stop someone who is not even supposed to be here. I think you know him as Delta.”
Screaming children raced through the streets of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Cars screeched to a halt, and the local police yelled out orders from the megaphones attached to the tops of their cars. Marching down the streets were a small unit of black clad military soldiers. With them were a pair of gray skinned super heroes, flying along.
The super hero at the front held up a small device and spoke into it. His words translated into the tongue of whoever was listening. “Please, do not panic. We are here for your protection. No one will be harmed. All meta humans will present themselves for questioning and examination. No exceptions.”
A woman rushed over and threw a bottle at the hero, smashing it and its liquid contents all over the place. She yelled, “you cannot take him!”
The hero flew toward her. The bottle thrower screamed and cowered at the sight of his imposing presence. Without a word against her, he merely looked up at a man hiding behind a car. “Take him.”
The soldiers rushed over and grabbed the man like a wanted criminal. He struggled and yelled. The soldiers aimed their anti-morphon weapons at him and this ceased all resistance. The soldiers took him away, binding his hands with a super-power suppression cuff.
“Jorge!” She pushed the superhero and tried to run after him.
The super grabbed her and pulled her back. “If he has nothing to hide, he has nothing to fear. We are only sorting out the villains from the heroes. We will return him and the others at the earliest possible time once questioning has been completed.”
She fell to her knees sobbing as the unit of military continued on their way through the town. One soldier separated and escorted Jorge to the nearest landed craft from the Word Corps.”
***
The command staff of BADGE watched the events from the Operations Center on the space station. Nova huffed hard, fury written in his eyes, but a calmness to his posture. Chase had a hand on her mouth, covering the constant gasping. Gar stood stone still, sorrow in his features. On the screen, he watched a dozen news casts from across the planet. Each one spoke about the people being picked up by the officials from the World Corps.
“Screen seven, sound on.” Nova commanded.
The screen activated and a reporter spoke on the streets of New Orleans in America. “Earlier today, teams of the World Corps officials entered all the public and private schools and escorted out twenty-seven students. Most of these students were unaware of their hidden morphonic talents, but sensors employed by the World Corps can detect the latent powers. So far, the World Corps press department has declined response to inquiries about abduction of children. It was spelled out to our national leaders that the World Corps is only looking for active villains. Local government representatives are bound by the Federal Government’s decision to allow this. However, they have raised the concern about abducting children who obviously have committed no act of villainy.”
“Sound off. Activate sound on feed fourteen.” Nova commanded.
The screen nearer the bottom moved up and expanded, the sound activating. A parliament member from the UK was being interviewed. The Parliament Member said, “we are curious who these heroes are who are serving the World Corps. They appear similar to the heroes that attacked Washington, D.C. earlier this year. None of them show up on any records we have and BADGE has not indicated they are registered with the BADGE official system. This leads us to believe that BADGE has been harboring the villains and these heroes are stepping up now that they can contend against the nefarious deeds of BADGE and their cohorts.”
The reporter asked, “does it not strike you as concerning that no cameras have been able to get a clear image of any of the reported gray skinned heroes?”
“It is troubling that they somehow can deactivate any visual recording of them at a close range. Yet, what is more troubling is the fact that known villains have been seen working with BADGE. I’d say we can give this World Corps some leniency on this matter.”
Nova waved a hand, and the sound cut off.
Chase quietly said, “how can they justify kidnapping children? How can these government officials blithely ignore this?”
Nova said, “It has been my experience that politicians worry more about image than the good of the people. Right now, the people are scared and believe what the World Corps has said. Instead of contending with actual facts and obvious flaws, the politicians are allowing this injustice to sate fears and make themselves look better.”
Gar said, “how can they turn on us so quickly? We have saved this world over and over. My fathers died to keep this planet safe.”
“Don’t sell yourself to the anger.” Nova said.
“What?”
Nova turned away from the scattering of news stories and said, “heroes have always dealt with the ungratefulness of humankind. It will always be that way. As a group, people and scared and stupid, but individually, they will begin to question this. Our job is not to feed into their fears by becoming the enemy they believe we are. We will figure this out. For now, we must do what we can.”
Chase asked, “have we seen any of the superhumans working with them?”
Nova shook his head, “no, and that bothers the hell out of me. We have got a distant glimpse of them, but nothing close enough to register. Somehow, when they arrive, all local security systems go offline. No footage, no sound. All we get is what little the media is allowed to show and a few eyewitness accounts.”
A bright blue flash filled the room, and suddenly both Strange Quark and Chaz Hamilton stood there. Chaz spent a moment gathering himself as he said, “wow, that always makes me dizzy.”
Quark said, “it’s okay. Next time, eat peanut butter before we travel.”
“It keeps you from vomiting?” Chase asked.
Quark grinned, “nope, it just tastes the same coming or going.”
Chaz looked back up, less green now. “Thanks. I’ll log that away.”
Nova said, “what do you have?”
Chaz said, “I have some good news. Australia has declared themselves a safe zone for heroes. They aren’t allowing the World Corps any footing. Prime Minister Shizue in North Onnotangu has also declared her country a safe zone. Heroes will be safe there.”
Quark said, “Neo Utopia’s city council is considering making the entire city a safe-zone, against the Federal orders, but so far they are still just talking. The good thing is, the World Corps hasn’t made it to Utopia just yet, so there is time.”
Nova shook his head, “Thank you, Chaz, for being our contact. Now, we have to do something about this. I hate the idea of telling heroes to go hide in safe zones while the world is in crisis.”
Chase said, “if we don’t keep the heroes safe, then how can those heroes keep the world safe?”
“Fair point.” Nova said, and then clicked on his communicator’s emergency signal. “Nova to all heroes. I know most of you have taken refuge in your League HQ’s. This is good. However, there are a lot of scared meta humans out there who are at risk. I will send you lists of locations where we know metas are, go and help them get to safety. If you can, move them toward the nation of Australia or North Onnotangu. I know the order to hunker down and hide is not a welcome thought, but we still have to figure this out. Nova...out.”
Quark asked, “what do we do next?”
“Quark, Gar, head for North Onnotangu. We need to find any info on those guns.”
“We’ve already…” Quark began to protest.
“I know we’ve tried. Try again.”
Quark said, “it would help if we had Chase with us. Her powers could prove useful.”
“I’m willing to help.” Chase added.
Nova looked at Chase. “I promised Santa I would keep you as safe as possible. Quark and Gar are both devoid of Morphonic powers. They’re safe from those guns. But, you aren’t.”
Chase said, “I can handle myself. Besides, Shizue has made her country a safe zone. She is the only meta-human world leader. I know she’ll do her best.”
“Fine, Quark, zap them both there and return here. Chase, get me some information.”
The World Corps Court quietly waited while Judge Alpha spoke from the central podium.
“I’m aware of the concerns you have for your nations. Rest assured that this will be fine. We will only apprehend true villains. Many will be set free once we have cleared them. Soon, everything will be back to normal, only much safer.”
A light beamed down over the representative from Australia. He said, “where did the World Corps recruit those other heroes? Why haven’t we heard or seen anything about them yet? I was under the impression that the MHA, the Meta Human Activities branch, would not be like BADGE and have their own hero teams.”
Alpha smiled. “It was determined the military operations of our task force should remain secret. Those volunteer heroes are dedicated to our goal and are only employed to make sure we don’t face opposition our normal security forces cannot deal with. The MHA under Marshal Gamma is strictly a task force, not a league of heroes like BADGE.”
A light beamed down over the representative from North Onnotangu. “What about those anti-morphon guns? I am not comfortable with such deadly weapons.”
“The guns are only an insurance that we won’t face deadly resistance. They will only be used in extreme circumstances, such as the lethal attack on Washington D.C. So far, we have yet needed to use one since the D.C. attack. Now, enough questions. I have matters to attend to. Thank you.” Many more lights came on, but she ignored the questions sent her way.
Stepping down from the podium, Alpha walked out of the room and down a corridor. She entered her office and then twisted a planter near a wall. A door opened, and she walked into an elevator. Soon, she was inside the dark room where Delta and Gamma waited on her.
“I don’t like to hear their suspicions.” Gamma stated.
Alpha said, “I enjoy them. By being suspicious, they appear legitimate to the world. They seem actually concerned about the well-being of the people.”
Delta added, “as long as they keep debating the merits of our plans, we can continue. Politicians have a wonderful way of taking their time coming to decisions. This gives us ample opportunities to finish what we started.”
Gamma said, “I don’t see why we need them? What use are these politicians working for us if they aren’t part of the scheme?”
Delta coolly answered, “our court of puppet politicians will one day replace the U.N. Then, not only will our little organization run things behind the scenes, we will have complete control over the puppets running things in front of the public. It is a perfect plan.”
“Enough of this.” Alpha sat down at pressed a button. A screen activated with a figure hidden entirely by shadow. “Beta, can you hear us?”
A disguised voice answered. “I have clear access.”
“Good.” Alpha turned to Gamma. “Update on the gathering of heroes.”
Gamma said, “it’s going slower than expected. BADGE has declared a League Wars event and that has sent many of their registered heroes scurrying up to that space station of theirs. Also, two nations have declared our presence illegal. We need the support of the UN to bypass any barriers in our way.”
Delta said, “Let them host their little competition, it will play into our hands. Right now, BADGE is running away from us and that is perfect. When we reveal the grand finale to this, there won’t be any BADGE to stop us, and the heroes hiding in Australia or Onnotangu will be easy targets.”
Beta spoke through that strange voice. “I hope you’re right. We can’t change anything now. Everything must go according to plan.”
Alpha said, “don’t worry. Everything is. It really doesn’t matter how slowly Gamma’s gathering of meta-humans takes. As long as you play your role, this will all fall into place. Are you ready, Beta?”
“Yes.”
“Good. Get started right away.”
***
An old school bus raced down the highway, dangerously coming close to several cars. Behind it rolled two large military vehicles with the World Corps symbol on the side.
Justin drove the bus, sweat beading across his forehead. Five children held on tight, two crying loudly as they almost hit the floor.
“Don’t worry, I won’t let them get you.”
He dodged another car when a bright green blast hit the side of the bus. It almost went off the road. Two tires lifted and then slammed back down. One of those gray heroes flew beside the bus, her hands filled with more green energy. She yelled, “STOP THIS BUS!”
Justin pulled out his laser pistol and shot the glass out of the window and nearly hit her. “LIKE HELL!” He plowed his foot into the gas pedal and tried to outrun the hero.
There came another green blast, this one hit the back of the bus. One third of the bus exploded, sending the front half careening down the highway toward the edge of a large city. Justin kept it from completely rolling, but they hit several cars and slid to the side before coming to a complete stop.
Justin gathered his wits and looked back. “Is everyone okay?”
The eldest child, a teen girl, emitted a strange energy that protected the center of the bus from damage. This protected the other children from that catastrophe.
He grabbed a small child and then rushed out the side door. “Come! We have to run!”
The children followed him down the road. Cars screeched to a halt with the highway now blocked by wreckage. The military vehicles behind them plowed through the bus debris. Their accompanying hero flew toward them, that green energy ready to fire.
“They wouldn’t kill children, would they?” Justin said as he ran for the city limits.
A green blast hit the ground in front of Justin, and he went flying. Rolling, he kept the child safe just as he hit a light post. The kids got to him and cowered as the augmented hero and the military vehicles arrived.
A legion of those weapon toting soldiers rushed out and surrounded Justin. Their hero hovered overhead.
The commando in charge ordered, “release the children into our custody. By international agreement we...what the hell?” The gun in his hand changed into a tommy gun.
All the soldiers’ guns changed. Their communicators turned to walkie talkies, and their uniforms appeared from World War 1. Suddenly, a fire hydrant hit the flying hero, and she went down.
Rutkowski and his gang came around the cars, his hands emitting a gray light. He spit out a toothpick in his teeth and looked at the World Corps military. “This here is my city. Yous guys wanna cause trouble, ya gonna deal with me. I don’t like bullies, and I don’t like nobody hurt’n no kids.”
Steelfist had a post box in his metal hands and was just about ready to throw it.
Private Eye Peyton and the Neo Utopia police showed up next. Peyton had a gun trained on the opposing military. “As of noon today, Neo Utopia is a safe zone. Kids, get behind us, now.”
Justin got up and ushered the kids behind the gangsters and police officers.
The leader of the World Corps military threw down his tommy gun and pointed a figure at Rutkowski. “by international law…” a bullet flew right by the man’s ear. It came from Peyton’s gun.
Rutkowski said, “now, yous gotta know, I don’t care much for laws, specially bone headed crap like you try’n ta pull. Get your butts outta my territory and don’t show your face round here again, capeesh?”
The World Corps people all spent a moment waiting, but soon enough, their commander gave them a signal and they returned to their vehicles and left. The Neo Utopia police rushed out to help the pile-up of civilian cars on the highway.
Justin stepped up to Private Eye Peyton. “What’s going on?”
Peyton looked at Rutkowski and smiled. “Let’s just say he offered to do community service.”
Rutkowski sneered, “I don’t like work’n with flatfoots or coppers, but I really don’t like these world corps goons. I like to steal stuff, but those jokers are taking kids and grabbing people like me and mak’n em disappear. For now, my gang will help keep those jokers outta this city. Just tell Nova to do something about this.”
Justin shook his head. “He’s not gonna believe this.”
With a sour sneer on his face, Nova quietly listened to Justin give his report. Beside Justin were two men who hated each other as much as anyone could. However, all three were standing in united.
Justin finished, “that’s when Peyton showed up with Rutkowski and saved us. We would’ve all been captured had they not stepped in.”
Nova frowned at Rutkowski, but then turned his attention to Peyton. “How did you agree to work with this scum?”
“HEY!” Rutkowski barked.
Peyton said, “I know, I know, he ain’t trustworthy, and I’d be damned if I believed he was being honest about anything else. But I know the man better than anyone, including you. He is a lot of things, but he ain’t no liar. When he told me he wanted to help protect super humans, I knew he was tell’n the truth.”
“Look here, cyclops,” Rutkowski interrupted, “I don’t like you, BADGE, or Peyton. But one thing I ain’t abiding is kidnapping kids. You just don’t do that. These people are bad news and I aim to keep them away from my city, got it! I don’t need your lip, blinky.”
Nova let a moment of silence pass and turned his attention back to Justin. “Are you safe?”
“Right now, yes. The city is protected. Between Rutkowski’s men, the police, and a few local heroes, this place is sealed tight. Tell other heroes that the city is a safe haven.”
Justin shook his head. “No. Nothing solid. I can say that she had the same skin color as the augments that attacked Washington. Can you send a League here to help out?"
"No. The League Wars started today. I know it seems like the time to summon up the heroes, but we can't show too much force yet or the World Corps will paint us the aggressors. Right now, we need to stay a low. Holding League Wars will keep our heroes occupied for a time while we hopefully will sort all this out."
"I don't like it, but I guess it has to be done. This place will be safe for meta-humans."
“Alright. Stay in Neo Utopia for now and help. I will check in on Gar and Chase.”
***
The small nation of North Onnotangu was still recovering from the incident with Skelanimal and Krampus. There was visible damage all around the capital, but it was on the mend.
Right now, Chase and Gar were being escorted through the capital toward the border of the land. They rode in the bus with a few officials.
“The Prime Minister is near the West Border that runs alongside the capital city. We will reach her in moments.” An official from the palace stated.
Chase looked at a large gathering of people in a park. "Big celebration today?"
The official said, "oh, yes. We love League Wars here, it is the most popular sport to watch now that we can. Our people love to cheer on the heroes. We have fan clubs."
Gar commented, "you are probably the only ones. Most people aren't watching this time."
Chase looked out the windows and smiled. “Look at the change. The last time I was here, this street had large sections of the alleys covered in cardboard with tattered tents all over the place. Oh, and the trash was practically waist deep.”
The official said, “With help from the UN and BADGE, our people are pulling themselves out of the poverty that was life for too many years. Many of the condemned buildings have been refurbished to give the poor and homeless a place to sleep that is warm and dry. We began a program that paid people to clean trash from the streets. And several private charities have given our people a lot of food and clean water to restore our health. This is a good time for our people.”
Gar said, “I hope it only gets better.”
Chase asked, “Shizue said that the World Corps was originally helping them.”
The official sneered, “the World Corps was caught attempting to scan and detain our people for suspicion of being morphon powered. Minister Shizue would not allow this violation of our rights and threw them out of the country. She is determined to make this country both safe and free.”
Chase added, “that is, if we stop this evil organization from causing any new trouble.” She gasped, “what the?”
The bus pulled up to a large brick wall that ran as far as the eye could see. It was five stories tall and had a large military force just inside.
Gar asked, “what is with the brick wall?”
“That is our protection. Come, Minister Shizue will be waiting for you.”
The bus came to a stop. Chase and Gar were escorted off and over to the wall where a small section was currently open. A healthy contingent of military officers stood around a well dressed Minister Shizue as she spoke to someone on the other side of the wall.
Chase and Gar stopped at the extent of the soldiers. They could see the forces of the World Corps stood with one of their gray skinned super humans.
The super said, “Minister, it is in the best interest of your people if you agree.”
“I am sorry, but your assessment of our interests is inaccurate. Human rights prevent me from believing that it is in anyone’s best interest to let a foreign agent come and detain my people without probable cause.”
The super said, “our goal is for your own good, for the good of this world. Sort out the good super humans from the villains. North Onnotangu should be the first nation to understand this goal. You were nearly destroyed by a villain. The ensuing fight with BADGE only did more damage.”
Shizue answered in a sweet, diplomatic tone that was underscored with strength. “My nation was under the oppressive thumb of idiotic despots. Our former leader and his loyal military generals were not morphonic super humans, they were simple, normal people. They were far worse than the enemy that attacked. So, you see, your logic is flawed. You wish to sort out evil from good, then you will never succeed. Evil grows in the hearts and minds of anyone, whether or not they have super powers. My people are recovering from all that our former leader did to us, and they don’t need your kind coming in and causing problems. Now, kindly leave.”
The super was obviously annoyed, but kept her calm voice. “It is difficult to discuss this with you, a superhuman. You're biased against us because of your fear we will interrogate you. So, since it seems you’ll blindly ignore the threat of villains, we will have to consider alternate options, including using force. Is that what you want?”
Shizue smiled, “do what you think you must. However, consider all the implications of your actions before you take them.” With a wave of her hand, the wall filled in with bricks and cut the World Corps people off from this country.
Once the wall was closed, Shizue swayed and had to be held up by one of her own soldiers. Chase came rushing over. “Minister, are you okay?”
Shizue stood up again, “oh, Chase, Gargoyle, it is nice to see the both of you. Pardon my weariness. Keeping this wall intact is taxing all my strength. Having to negotiate with these fools isn’t helping.”
Gar asked, “aren’t you worried they will attack?”
“No. They aren’t ignorant of the repercussions of that action. If they attack us without provocation, then the world will turn against them. All their allies in the nations that support this violation of human rights will suddenly question everything they’ve been told. Let them reveal the villains they are, and then we will have them.”
Chase held Shizue by the arm to walk her back to the bus waiting for them. “You’re a clever politician.”
“No, I am a woman who has spent her whole life protecting the ones I love. Now, I’m pleased to see you. I have something to show you.”
Chase asked, “out here?”
“No, no. Back at the Palace.”
“The official told us to meet with you directly.” Gar said.
Shizue nodded, “I know. I told them to bring you to me when you arrived. I did not realize these World Corps people would show up now. What I have to show you I have kept a secret, in case any spy might find it.”
Chase helped Shizue board the bus. “I’m glad we came out here. I got this.” She held up her wrist comm and showed a small, but clear picture of the super standing on the other side of the wall.
***
“Would you shut up!” Arx bellowed.
EB hopped around in the hallway just outside the invisible barrier to Arx’s holding cell. “Nope! You need to tell us what you know, so I’m gonna get it from you. Nova said I’m not supposed to use any magic on you, but that don’t mean I can’t talk, and boy do I love to talk. This one time I actually got a criminal to confess while I was out hiding eggs. It was a glorious time. He was this big-shot local thug that was doing this whole protection racket thingy. I was...”
Arx slammed his fist against the forcefield. “Look here, rodent. You can blather all you want. I can’t tell you guys anything more. I don’t know any more.”
EB stood there, uncharacteristically silent for a long time...at least for him. “Fine. Perhaps a little time will jog your memory. Nova said you could watch television, so let’s just watch the news, shall we?” EB jumped up and pressed a button on a wall monitor.
The news was in the middle of a story with a reporter inside a school. “...the principal has said there is more to be expected. As parents arrived, many are searching for their children only to find a form letter from the World Corps informing them they will see their children again after they are questioned. Local authorities have raised the question, ‘why interrogate a first grader who didn’t even know they had morphonic abilities yet?’ “
Arx stopped his raging and leaned against that energy field as he watched the screen. There was a flicker in his eye as he saw the footage of children being shoved into military craft at gun point.
Chase and Gar followed Shizue back to the palace. The large gated wall that surrounded the place had been torn down and replaced by a secure but accessible fenced area.
While stepping off the bus, Chase asked, “Where are the limos and other government cars I saw earlier?”
Shizue used Gar’s hand to help get off the bus. “We still have a few of the armored vehicles for special events, like escorting a dignitary. But, many of the luxury cars were the over indulgence of our former leader and his people. I had them sold, and the money given to our public transportation program. We needed buses, not limos.”
An SUV with heavily tinted windows rolled up with two police escorts. Gar asked, “who is that?”
“That is Ambassador Ben Talos, from the UN. He just flew in today. I was expecting him a little later, but you get to meet him. He has been a good friend to Onnotangu.”
A man in a nice suit stepped out. He had a brilliant smile, nicely kept sandy blonde hair, and was about as tall as Gar. He approached with a quick step and an outstretched hand.
“Why, if it isn’t Chase and Gargoyle from BADGE. A pleasure to meet you!” He pumped Chase’s hand and then took Gar by the hand. “Wow, you really are made of stone. Amazing!”
Gar was grinning in almost the same manner as this man. “Yes. I am stone. You are a very nice man.”
“Why thank you. I try. Oh, I hate I am missing League Wars. I love following that, but I have so much on my plate.” He turned to Shizue. “Now, I know I’m early, Minister Shizue, but I just couldn’t wait to get here. I have wonderful news!”
Shizue walked the other three up the steps to the palace. “Ambassador Talos has been working hard getting aid for North Onnotangu since the fall of our last dictator. So many nations and we don’t have a single ambassador to send out, not yet anyway. So, he has done the work for us.”
“My pleasure, my supreme pleasure. This nation deserves a chance, and I mean to help. So, I just got word from Japan that they are donating enough school supplies to completely restore all of your public schools. Desks, computers, whiteboards, and a lot more.” He was practically glowing.
Chase stopped him. “Ambassador, may I ask your position on the World Corps situation?”
“I wondered if you’d ask that. I think it’s an absolute travesty. No one should be allowed to violate human rights for any reason. This World Corps organization has gone too far. I can’t do much in my current position, but I’d sure like to help put a stop to this so it can be handled better. I would sure like to talk with Director Nova about it, see what I can do.”
Chase was pleasantly surprised. “I’ll see what I can do to make that happen. Right now, the Director needs political support in the UN.”
“I’d be glad to help.”
Shizue said, “Ambassador, if you would please meet with Minister Tamoko about the school supplies. I have a private meeting with my friends from BADGE.”
“By all means. Glad to meet both of you, and don’t forget to get me in touch with Nova at once.”
Shizue bowed to him and then led Chase and Gar into the building.
“He is a nice person.” Gar said.
Shizue answered, “he has helped us in so many ways. Our roads wouldn’t be built, our hospital wouldn’t have a full staff, and we wouldn’t have the trash service without all his efforts. Now, come this way.”
She led them into her office, which was the opulent office of the former leader. There was a bookcase in the back that opened up with a secret panel. Inside was another large room that had several people working around computers and equipment.
“What is this place?” Chase asked.
Shizue snarled, “this room was our former leader’s personal pleasure den.”
“Ew.”
“I now use it as a secret room to study the last bits of tech left from Dr. Osteens’ work. I don’t want anyone getting their hands on this.”
Chase asked, “why haven’t you sent this stuff to BADGE for disposal?”
Shizue stopped and looked at a set of strange instruments that appeared like torture devices made for a bad sci-fi movie. “Osteen and his people experimented on my people with this tech. Many are still in the hospital or permanent care because of it. If we can learn a little more about how it worked, we might reverse some of the damage. I know, BADGE is better suited for that. I just want to take care of my people.”
Chase put a hand on her shoulder. “Don’t worry. I trust your intentions are noble. Now, what did you want to show me?”
Shizue waved over one scientist. He bowed and then said, “Agent Chase, we have found something that be believe was once part of Dr. Osteens’ personal computer. Just before he was captured, he destroyed his equipment. Until now, we didn’t know there was any part left. It isn’t anything we can use but...”
“You think my powers can help.”
“Yes. If you would.” He held his hand out and showed her the shard of plastic and metal that was once part of the casing for a computer.
Chase put her hand on it and closed her eyes. “I can see us entering the room. Now it is going back to when it was found days ago...now I am going back faster. It is dark, in a dark place. Now, I see it being destroyed by a hammer.” She pushed herself, watching Dr. Osteen move backwards as time passed in reverse around this object.
Gar asked, “do you see him working on the morphon guns?”
“No…nothing yet. Wait, I see schematics of the weapon. But I don’t see him building any. Now, I am going back before he came here, when he worked at a laboratory in California. Wait...who is that? No, it can’t be. It’s Arx, before he was all silver skinned. Oh, my god. He paid Dr. Osteen to enhance him. Everyone knew he paid someone to make him more powerful for his movie roles, but Dr. Osteen. Wait, I see more data on his computer about augmentation...gah!” She dropped the shard and held her face.
Gar rushed over and held her. “Chase!”
“Don’t worry, I’m fine. I just...pushed myself too hard. I can watch things in reverse, but it gets harder to see details the further back I take something. I tried to stop the flow and that gave me one heck of a headache.”
Shizue asked, “did you find anything of value?” her tone was hopeful.
Chase nodded. “I think so. We know Arx is deeply tied to Osteen. He may know more than he is letting on. I also know that most of this equipment here was part of Osteens original experimentation. We need to bring it back to BADGE. It might hold the key to stopping those awful anti-morphon guns.”
Shizue looked at her scientist for a long, quiet moment and then said. “Pack it all up. We are sending this back to BADGE.”
“But, Prime Minister...” The lead scientist began his protest, but was stopped when she calmly held up her hand to him.
“However, BADGE must promise to give us information they find that could help our people who have been hurt by this.”
Chase said, “you have my word that we will help.”
“I trust you. Now, hurry.”
Delta walked through a dark corridor that was lit occasionally by a dim light to ensure he didn’t run into a wall. Distant echoes of strange sounds wafted through the various corridors he passed, but they did not turn his head. Finally, he pushed aside two large doors that opened into a massive room with hundreds of cells.
Lines of people were marched into the room under the care of the World Corps guards. They were put into the cells and sealed inside behind the thick, plexiglass doors. Children cried while adults trembled at the sight of the guns held to them.
Surrounded by a unit of soldiers for protection, Dr. Osteen worked hard at a computer in the middle of the room.
“Osteen. Progress?” Delta commanded.
“And hello to you.” Osteen sarcastically responded. “The augmentation is going just fine. The first batch is already made up. This new batch will be tricky. I haven’t worked with children yet.”
“Then you will learn.”
“What if they don’t survive?”
Delta coldly answered, “then you will learn how far the limits go for children. Now, get back to...”
“I WON’T BE TREATED LIKE THIS!” a man bellowed.
Delta looked up at one of their captives shoving his way out of line. He was restrained, but continued yelling. “Ask your damn questions and then let us go!”
“You will be silent.” Delta answered.
“I promised myself I wouldn’t use my powers, but I’ve had enough!” The man shoved his fist out and a wave of energy hit the nearest guard and sent the man flying. The man turned and punched again, and the other guard slammed into a holding cell. He yelled out to the other captives, “Fight back! If you want to live, fight back!” He shoved his hands out at Delta, but was met by the butt end of a gun to the side of his head.
Delta calmly approached the man. “Pity. You have great potential. But I must make an example for the others.” He grabbed the gun that had been used to hit the man and then shot. The man was vaporized instantly by the anti-morphon gun. Children and adults screamed. Delta handed the gun back to the guard. Speaking to the other captives, he said, “you stay alive by obeying. You’re all expendable.” With that, he walked out of the room.
***
A shuttle decloaked just outside the BADGE space station and entered the main docking bay. Robots approached quickly to assist those disembarking. Chase stepped out first, followed by Gar, and then Ambassador Ben Talos.
“Wow, that was quite a ride! I’ve never been on a space shuttle before.” Ben said.
Chase replied, “it is an experience.”
They were stopped by lines of people being registered by BADGE officers and robots. Another shuttle came in and opened up to unload ten more people.
Ben asked, “what’s with all the people?”
Gar answered, “we are trying to find all the people who are at risk from the witches.”
“Witches?” Ben asked.
Chase answered, “he means witch hunt, that’s what Nova has called this.”
“A good assessment. I thought there were safety cities and even the nation of Australia?”
“These people are from third world countries and other remote locations. Right now, a lot of our heroes are currently at the League Wars stadium, competing. If we had the stadium free, we could house some of these people there, but for now they get packed into this place.”
“I didn’t realize how many superheroes were around the world.”
Chase said, “many of these people have extremely minor affinity for morphonic energy. Most will never be able to use it at all. But even the tiniest amount of affinity is enough to get hauled off by the World Corps. It is a big job finding them before those mercs show up.”
“I’m sure you are doing a fine job. I’ll tell the UN how wise you are handling this.”
Chase and Ben continued talking about all the operations happening as she led them up the special elevator to the operations center for the station. No sooner had they left the elevator did they run into Quark, downing a large bottle of whiskey. He wiped his mouth, burped, and then greeted them.
Ben frowned. “Are you drinking on the job?”
Quark said, “I should think so. I was waaay too sober.”
“I see.”
Chase took the ambassador by the arm and led him down the steps. “Don’t mind Quark, he’s....strange. Ah, here’s the Director.”
Nova gave the new man a funny look. “May I help you?”
Chase introduced them. “Sir, this is Ambassador Ben Talos from the UN. He has been helping Minster Shizue in Onntangu and is sympathetic to our situation. He wanted to meet with you. Our comm channels out of North Onntangu were being tracked by World Corps goons stationed just outside the wall. So, I had to bring him up here.”
Ben shook Nova by the hand. “A real pleasure, sir. I’m a big admirer of yours. You have done some great work. I wish I could help more here than just talk to you. My specialty with the UN is organizing aid resources. I see you could use some food and medical supplies for all these new people, but I’m not in a position to get it up here at this time.”
Nova freed his hand from the energetic politician. “Thank you for the thought, but the BADGE station is well equipped to handle the people at this time. I need to speak with my people.”
“Oh, sure. I won’t get in your way. Could I use a comm station to contact my office? I need to tell them where I am.”
Nova snapped his fingers, “Unit 10915, assist the Ambassador with the comm system.”
A robot escorted the ambassador to a computer station on a far end of the room.
Nova turned to Chase. “A politician...really?”
Chase answered him. “Ben is sympathetic to our situation...”
“You mentioned that.”
“He’s also a voice in the UN. I would think you would want to have that in your pocket during this delicate situation. Face it, Director, you aren’t a smooth talking politician. He’s energetic, but a good talker.”
“He could be of use. For now, I need to know what you found out in Onnotangu.”
Chase said, “A lot. For starters, we have a whole shipment of tech used by Osteen during his time there, some if it specially designed by him.”
“That should have already been turned over.”
“I know,” Chase said. “They had their reasons. It is in our hands now. However, the biggest bit of information I got was from a shard of Osteen’s old computer. I discovered several facts. Not only did he start the designs for those guns, he was already designing augmentation before these World Corps people got ahold of him.”
“That is interesting. But how can that help us?”
Chase smiled, “because, we have his very first test subject in custody on this station.”
“You don’t mean Arx?”
“I do. But I’m not talking about the augmentation they did to turn him into that supervillain back during the Hollywood attack. Everyone knows Arx had his super abilities and physical appearance altered back when he got his start.”
Nova nodded. “it was like plastic surgery. He got a super buff body, silver skin, and some enhanced powers to be a better action movie star.”
“Yes, but guess who gave him that initial upgrade?”
Nova’s who face changed to a hint of shock. “Dr. Jason Osteen.”
“The very same. And, from what I could see, Osteen had all his research and information out in the open when he worked on Arx.”
Nova asked, “Did you see what it said?”
“I couldn’t. My powers are limited to details like that as I move backward. But he might remember something.”
Nova scoffed. “I doubt he’ll be any help.”
“There might be something.”
“He has yet to give me reason to trust him.”
Chase said, “Sir, I think you should at least talk to him.”
“I suppose we could ask him. Though interrogating him has given us practically nothing of value.”
“We have to try. Oh, and there was one more item I got.” She held up her wrist comm and typed in a command. She nodded toward the main viewscreen.
Nova turned to see the same picture that she took at the wall with Shizue. The gray-skinned hero stood on the other side of the wall, looking in at the prime minister.
Nova actually smiled. “Now, this is good news. Robots, I want a detailed analysis of that face. I need information, asap.”
All the robots in the room went to work. That photo transferred to all their screens and every sort of sensor and analytical program possible went after it.
Nova turned to Chase, “let’s go have a chat with our superstar.”
Judge Alpha stood before a gathering of representatives at the U.N. Beside her stood a woman with a stack of files in her arms.
“I understand your concerns and we are doing the best we can with what we have to work with. Bringing in everyone with morphonic powers for questioning is not a straightforward job, but necessary.”
A representative from Belgium was allowed to speak. “Judge, it seems difficult to justify taking children without proper cause. We have laws that forbid the detaining of minors without parental consent.”
The woman next to Alpha quickly pulled out a piece of paper and handed it to her. Alpha read it. “Under the special laws written to oversee meta-human activity, any person of any age can be detained until said person has been determined to be without harm to themselves.”
Another woman rose to her feet. She had a BADGE emblem on her nation marker. “Those laws were enacted to protect people from themselves. In rare cases when the morphonic powers were so dangerous that even the user was at significant risk, we had to be careful.”
Alpha smiled at the BADGE rep. “Ah, I see. So, BADGE can have laws that allow them to take children, but we cannot. Yet, it is BADGe who harbors known villains and mass murderers.”
“BADGE is not in the business of kidnapping children!”
Alpha responded, “BADGE is in the business of attempted world domination.”
“World domination?” Another representative piped up. “Care to explain that accusation?”
“Of course. While BADGE is spinning our benevolent act as a violation of human rights, they hold a League Wars right now. Showcasing to the world the power their people have. League Wars is nothing but a display of weapons by a dictatorial organization that makes no pretense about feeling they are above the law. We gathering a few people for questioning and they throw accusations at us. They are worried that we are stopping them from doing the very act they blame us for. They capture meta humans and turn them into weapons of mass destruction. They set loose their own villains so their own heroes can look good, all the while crippling nations in the ensuing battle. BADGE is evil and we mean to make it clear to the world.”
The BADGE rep calmly answered this. “BADGE has always had the world’s best interest at heart. Before you make a decision about their supposed benevolence, let them return all the people they have captured. Ask to allow a third party to go into these detention facilities and see that the people are being treated fairly.”
A buzzer sounded signaling the end of the session.
The man in charge of this meeting said, “we will discuss this in further committee meetings. Thank you.”
The meeting concluded, and Judge Alpha left, answering none of the questions being brought to her personally. The committee members all began discussing the next orders of business as the wheels of bureaucracy slowly turned onward.
***
Nova walked through the twelve check-points to get into the high-security detention sector of the BADGE space station. There were only a few cells in this area, but they had the highest security known to mankind. In fact, at a moment’s notice, if a captive was at risk of escaping and causing catastrophic disaster for Earth, the entire wing could be ejected into space.
Nova punched in his security clearance at the last check-point and walked into the area where Arx was being held. EB hopped around, flipping channels on the two different screens. Each time, he would stop on yet another news broadcast of the current crisis on earth.
Nova paused, “EB, I didn’t clear you to come in here today?”
EB stopped and smiled, “yeah, so?”
“I didn’t put in my clearance, and I haven’t upgraded yours for this high of level.”
“Yeah, so?”
Nova’s eye twitched. “How did you get in here?”
EB grinned and winked. “I’m the Easter Bunny.”
Letting this go, for now, Nova turned his attention to Arx. “I see you accomplished a miracle.”
Arx looked up at Nova with a frown on his silver skinned face. “What?”
“EB isn’t chattering incessantly.”
Arx quietly said, “no, he’s just been catching me up on the news.”
Nova turned and watched the muted screen near him that had running footage of the fighting in down-town Detroit. “I see.”
EB said, “it’s gotten waaay worse out there. Parents and others are brawling in the street with the mercs. Those World Corps jerks aren’t using their guns on em, because they are normals, not super. The world’s gone nuts. Now the regular humans must protect the superheroes. And I’m missing League Wars! No one is watching League Wars, all the media is focused on this stupid...”
“Enough, EB.” Nova kept his eyes on Arx. “We are watching street wars where regular people are protecting their own friends and family. Most of the morphon people aren’t even able to use powers, they are so weak.”
“It’s gotta stop!” EB hollered.
“That’s why I’m here.” Nova coolly stated.
EB smiled and hopped around. “Now yer gonna get it, Arx. Whatcha gonna do, Nova? Bamboo under his toenails, a good poke in the eye. This one time, I got a confession outta a jerk by giving him a wasabi filled Easter egg. He just about...”
“I want to help.” Arx interrupted the bunny.
Nova frowned, “you want to help? What do you mean?”
Arx stood from his bench and walked over to the barrier. “Just what I said. I want to help in any way I can.”
“Why?” was the only word that could come to Nova’s mind right now.
Arx looked up at the screen with the people throwing objects at the World Corps military. “This is my fault. I helped these people start all this. They used me. I know what I did is unforgivable. I murdered people in spite and reckless ego. But I was wrapped up in my mind, my little world where Arx was so important to mankind that I could do whatever I wanted. Now, I see that I’m nothing. I’m worse than nothing. I helped create this disorder, this chaos. This world is crying over their children being taken and I’m to blame. I have to make amends somehow.”
EB had his mouth agape while Nova spent a moment rethinking his words he brought with him to this moment. “I want to believe you. My trust isn’t earned easily. Are you going to talk, to give us what we want to know?”
“I want to try. However, I have not been lying. I have told you all I know. They kept me in the dark about so much of this. Obviously, they intended to allow me to escape, knowing I would likely be captured. So, they made sure I knew as little as possible.”
EB frowned, “that was a really smart statement from you.”
“I’m not the idiot everyone thinks I am. I’m just not the smartest guy in the room most of the time.” He replied, in anger, to EB. Returning to his peaceful attitude, he spoke to Nova. “If there is any way I can help, I will. Please, believe me.”
Nova looked at Arx for a long, tense moment. “I can’t trust you, not after just a few good statements. However, Chase seems to think you can change. I will see if her feelings are correct. Just know, there is not an inch of this station I can’t see. You’ll be watched and at the first sign of betrayal, you will find yourself floating in space.” Nova reached over and pressed his thumb against a special sensor. The forcefield came down. Nova looked Arx in the eye. “Come with me. We will try to jog that memory of yours.”
He turned and led Arx out of his cell. EB bounced behind them, throwing a few threats toward Arx in case this was yet another scheme.
Director Nova walked out of the lift and into the Operations center. Chase stood in the center of the room in command and met him with an update.
“The kidnapping of people continues to rise and so far, the World Corps has released none of their detainees. One of the World Corps people just made a big speech about how League Wars is just another intimidation tactic of BADGE, showing superpowers to the world. It was a sick spin on the games and the politicians were eating it up.”
Nova stood next to her and watched the view screens with all the various news broadcasts. “Any good news to report?”
“Only that Ambassador Talos has been on the phone with his contacts in the UN about this. He is in the conference room on deck two.”
“That’s the best news yet.”
She asked, “what about Arx? Any luck getting new information from him?”
“No. We tried telepaths. There are a dozen telepathic people currently on the station, among all the refugees we are housing. None of them can get through his enhanced body.”
“What?”
Nova sneered, “those enhancements he got back when he turned himself silver gave him an invulnerability to energy weapons and most super powers. This is working against us. Our people aren’t able to get into his mind well enough. EB even tried giving him some magic eggs to eat.’
“What could eggs do?”
“EB had a good idea. He enchanted the chocolate to cause Arx to have a better memory. It wasn’t enough. He couldn’t remember enough details to give us any clues to follow.”
A robot announced. “Analysis complete. Data ready. Director Nova, alert.”
Nova turned and said, “report.”
10915 looked at the main screen and a myriad of windows opened, with data sprawling across them. The face of the hero Chase met in North Onnotangu was in the center, and five other photos appeared around her. “Analysis complete.”
Chase looked at the photos with a deep frown. “She isn’t a hero at all. Look, she’s going to work. That’s a photo from what appears to be an office party.”
Nova pointed at the info sheet. “Her name is Susan Miller. She’s a schoolteacher at Barkwood Elementary in Featherville, Massachusetts. She has no previous record of even knowing she had morphonic abilities.”
“What is she doing working for the World Corps?”
“My guess is she has been augmented and brainwashed. The reports we got back from the Washington attack indicated the augments there were not in their own minds. When they became more lucid, they were confused.”
Chase said, “then their loyal little superhero army is nothing but a bunch of brainwashed augments?”
“That’d be my guess. They grabbed them off the streets long before this even started. Look, Susan was reported missing five months ago.”
“Oh, my god. If the UN gets wind of this...”
Just then, Ambassador Talos walked in through a door that led to the stairs. “Are my ears burning? Did someone mention the UN?”
“Yes. We have a situation that you need to bring to their attention.” Chase said.
Ben smiled, “you’ve given me many things to bring to them. I just got off the phone with the director of the Human Rights Council.”
“What did she have to say?” Nova asked.
Ben said, “Well, they share my concerns about the violations of human rights and are very willing to look into these cases. However, they are also worried about the potential of super villains hiding among your heroes. And, though you don’t want to hear this, it makes some sense.”
Chase said, “you can’t arrest everyone in a city just because one of them might rob a bank tomorrow.”
“I agree and said a very similar thing to her. But, you know bureaucracy, it never moves fast.”
Nova pointed to the screen. “We might have something that will expedite the bureaucrats.”
“What in heaven’s name is all that? Who is Susan Miller?”
Nova answered, “evidence that the organization that created the villains that attacked D.C. and the World Corps are the same.”
Nova spent a long moment explaining all the details of this new evidence. Ben had to take a seat and was in a sweat at the implications.
“You mean we’re dealing with the villains trying to tell us they are protecting us from other villains?”
Nova said, “that has been a ploy of evil since the earliest days of mankind. No better way to hide true evil than to pretend it is your only hope.”
Ben said, “I need more.”
“What?” Chase blurted out.
“What I mean is, I know these people. They will listen and some will immediately believe you. However, all it takes is one person to throw in a shred of doubt to the validity of your theory, and then the cogs of politics screech to a grinding halt.”
Nova looked back at the screen. “You are, unfortunately, correct. We need more than one case. We need more pictures of other augments to prove that the supers employed by the World Corps are all missing persons.”
Chase asked, “how? These people have been very clever in hiding themselves from any cameras. They block any media and local CCTV from getting photos.”
Nova pointed at 10915. “Robot, I want our system to scan all social media networks. I want pictures taken by cell phones, tablets, anything that has been uploaded by citizens. QUARK!”
There was a great blue flash, and Quark appeared. He had a bottle of sake in his hand. “Hey, I was in the middle of lunch.”
“Take it with you. I want you to get any photos of those gray heroes working for the World Corps. Do not engage them. In fact, it would be good if they never even knew you were there.”
Quark swigged down the rest of the sake and then tossed the bottle. Halfway to the floor, it transformed into a small duck and flew right over the Ambassador’s head.
Quark said, “Sounds like a plan. I couldn’t get anywhere with Arx. His stupid enhancement kept messing my powers up. I turned him into a giant turkey for a moment...but, then again, I guess that was redundant...ha!”
“Just get going.” Nova said, not giving Quark the satisfaction of a laugh.
In another blue flash, Quark was gone.
Ben stood up. “Arx? I thought he was dead?”
Nova said, “He has been our prisoner since his attack ended. He poses no threat to anyone.”
“Still, a little…uh…stunning to know he is still around. Anyway. I will see if any of my contacts out on the field have pictures of these augmented people.”
“Thank you.”
“My pleasure. Oh, look at the time. I have to get in there and set up the online meeting. Good luck.” He rushed back toward the stairs that led to the conference room below Operations.
“Incoming message from League Wars Orbital Arena.” A robot announced.
An image appeared on the screen from the League Wars arena. Chaz spoke to Nova. “The League Wars rounds have all finished. They’re about to get their trophies. Um, where are they supposed to go? Home or the station?”
Nova was quiet for a moment as he pondered this. “The situation down on Earth has only gotten worse. But I see no reason not to let them go home for now. Tell the Leagues to head back to their HQ’s and hunker down for now.”
“They aren’t gonna like that.” Chaz said as the heroes were partying behind him after the last round.
Nova answered. “They’ll have to live with it.”
“I’ll let the shuttle pilots know. Chaz Hamilton out.”
Nova turned to 10915. “Prepare a briefing video to show all the leagues to update them on the current situation on Earth. I don’t want any of our people in the dark. And let them know that staying out of sight is not a request, it’s an order.”
“Understood.”
Nova looked back at the screen. “The world is in great danger and I am forced to tell all the heroes to avoid helping. This is madness.”
Quark hovered over ocean waters as he checked his comm unit.
“Nova? What’s the emergency?”
Nova’s voice piped through. “You need to head to WMD HQ on the double.”
Quark shook his head, “why is it always them?” He vanished in a crack of sound and a blue flash. Moments later, he appeared over what appeared to be undeveloped land surrounded by mountains. A helicopter was parked in the middle of a field and from it poured out a small legion of the black-clad soldiers of the World Corps and two of their superhumans.
“Nova, we have a serious situation here.” Quark said. “The World Corps is present and they are zeroing in on the entrance to the Base.”
“How did they find that information? That League HQ is a secret. Get down there and make sure this doesn’t start a war with WMD. The last thing we need is Midgard to get pissed.”
“On it.” Quark flicked off his comm unit and rushed down.
The moment he approached the ground, he saw The Wizard and Hot Wings strolling out to meet this invading force. It made him happy that two of the cooler heads of WMD were out here to meet with the World Corps. He landed near them before they reached their enemy.
“Quark?” Hot Wings was a little surprised by him.
“Nova got the alert. I was nearby. When did they get here?”
The Wizard answered, “Just about ten minutes ago. They were circling the area for two hours before landing. I don’t know how they found us.”
“Trust me, Nova is livid right now.” Quark said.
Hot Wings muttered, “we aren’t too happy about this either. But, let’s hear them out.”
All three stopped and waited. The World Corps soldiers lined up and took up a defensive posture, even holding their weapons ready to fire. The two heroes, a man and woman, approached with a confident strut.
Hot Wings attempted a polite greeting. “Welcome to our base. I...”
The female super stated, “WMD will submit to questioning. The ones called Midgardsomr and Skelanimal will be apprehended and processed at the World Corps detention center. This is not a negotiation.”
The Wizard answered, “like hell. We are not under your jurisdiction. In fact, this location is currently owned by BADGE and is not under the authority of any one nation or even the UN.”
The male super said, “per UN directive 60714 subsection 13, all property that is owned by BADGE remains under the authority of the UN in cases of emergency or security risks. By this directive, you are to obey.”
Quark smiled, “sure, go command Midgard to obey and see how far that gets ya.”
The female super looked at Quark. “Agent Strange Quark of BADGE. I see our suspicion is correct. BADGE is harboring and protecting villains.”
Quark answered, “sure, BADGE is in the habit of protecting the heroes that fight to defend this world. Sure, Midgard has had a few slipups, and he is a little much to listen to. But, so far, he has helped save this world from countless enemies. You, on the other hand, have only traumatized this planet and sent the population into hysteria. So, right now, the points aren’t in your favor. Now, get back on your little helicopter and get outta here.”
The male super smiled, “or what?” the line of soldiers charged their anti-morphon guns.
Hot Wings narrowed his eyes at the two supers. “Trust me, you don’t want to mess with us.”
The two supers hovered a little higher off the ground. “You will come with us.”
Quark waved his hand and said, “hey, if I can interrupt the ego show. I just need to get a picture.” He held up his wrist comm and frowned. “Hey. How’d you...oh, look, you’re using tech morphons to mess with the cameras. So, that’s how you’ve kept yourself hidden. Nice work. But, I’m Strange Quark so....SAY CHEESE!” He held up his hands.
The two supers called out, “stop him!”
There was a great blue flash and Quark stood in the middle of the arboretum with all the other members of WMD staggering around. Even the ones hiding inside the base were now on the station.
Midgard bellowed, “I WANTED TO EAT THOSE STUPID HUMANS AND THEIR PATHETIC GUNS! SEND ME BACK!”
Quark looked at a photograph he had in his hand of those two heroes. “Listen, snaky, Nova doesn’t want us outright fighting them yet. That would only make the situation worse. You will just have to rest your slithery hide here for a while.”
Midgard growled out words no one understood. Hot Wings said, “try not to antagonize him. He’s pretty tense being forced to stay put for this long.”
“Take him to a training room and let him smack around a few training robots. I need to get this to Nova.” Quark vanished away and reappeared next to Nova in the Operations center.
Nova nearly stumbled into him. “Quark! You startled me.”
“I’m back from the WMD HQ.”
“And?”
“Good news. I prevented the situation from turning into an all-out fight. However, that means we have the WMD team up here now and the World Corps people were back at their base. Which means...”
“Which means we can’t send them back until this situation is resolved.” Nova stated.
“Or we find them another home.”
Nova said, “we have already had two more reports of League HQ’s being surrounded by World Corps. The others aren’t secret locations, but this is getting out of hand. Please, tell me you have something for me?” Nova pointed at the photograph.
“Yup, with a little of my special magic, I got a nice picture of the two heroes they had with them.”
“Don’t call them heroes.” Nova snatched the photo.
“True. Supers are a better term for them.”
Nova handed the photo to one of the robots. “Get to work on this right away.”
“Any luck with Arx?” Quark asked.
“Not yet. Chase is down there trying to help.”
***
Arx sat in a special chair in the middle of Dr. Henderson’s laboratory. Sensor devices beeped and buzzed all around as screens displayed information. Dr. Henderson stood next to Arx with a small sensor device while Chase leaned over him and had both her hands on his head.
She strained and grit her teeth as she groaned. Finally, she pulled her hands away and wiped sweat from her brow. “It’s no good. I just can’t use my powers on a living thing.”
Dr. Henderson said, “I know. I just hoped there was enough artificial stuff in him to trigger your abilities.”
“It doesn’t work.” She said.
Arx, bare from the waist up, grinned at her and bounced his well chiseled pecks at her. “You’re kinda cute.”
“WATCHIT BUSTER! SHE’S NOT INTERESTED IN A BOZO LIKE YOU!” EB hopped up and sat on a table near Arx, attempting to look as fierce as a bunny can.
Chase kindly removed the angry bunny and said, “Arx, you’re a sexy guy.”
“Not that sexy.” EB muttered.
She continued, “you’re also a convicted mass murderer. You poisoned me twice, tried to destroy this station, and helped an evil organization. I’m not interested in you.”
Arx’s entire form deflated slightly as he sunk into the seat. “You know, I always wanted a lot of awesome credits. Lots of blockbuster movies, big awards, sexiest man alive five years in a row....but I guess I will always be remembered for all that horrible stuff. And I don’t blame anyone for it. I did it. I can’t undo it no matter how much I wish I could.”
Dr. Henderson picked up one device confiscated from North Onnotangu. “There is one last idea I have, but it’s risky.”
Chase frowned. “You aren’t planning on using that stuff?”
“I’ve been studying these instruments, and the data gathered by the scientists in Onnotangu. This might work. In fact, it has the best chance of getting exactly what we need right now. But my medical ethics prevent me from wanting to go through with it.”
Arx cleared his throat and asked, “how risky is this?”
“All data shows that every person who ever had this used on them ended up dead.”
“Will it work?”
Chase said, “you can’t seriously be considering letting her do this to you?”
Arx said. “I have to consider my options. Will it work, doctor?”
“I believe so. Think carefully before you make a choice here, Arx, if we start, we can’t stop.”
“I know.”
Chase and Nova both had special headsets on as they communicated with people. Each stood in the middle of the Operations center while watching the main screen.
Chase held her earpiece. “No, don’t run out in the open. We don’t want the media to see that. Get to a secure location and send the signal. Either Strange Quark will get you or there will be a cloaked shuttle waiting.....yes, I know, teleportation makes me queasy too.”
Nova walked by her while he spoke into his. “No, do not engage them. Yes, I know they have guns aimed at your headquarters, but do not engage. Use the secret escape hatch in the back. The shuttle will land in five minutes.....yes, your league is large, but there will already be another league in that shuttle. Just be uncomfortable for a few moments.”
Chase pulled off her headset and let out a heavy sigh. “I have never had to talk to so many people at the same time. How many leagues have they hit so far?”
Nova turned off his headset. “That would make seventeen. And four were top secret locations. How the hell the World Corps is finding them is anyone’s guess.”
Chase asked, “Why are we evacuating them? Why not just tell them to stand their ground? The World Corps may have many people and their own supers. But they will be hard pressed to break into any League HQ.”
Nova said, “I want them to make that first move. To break in.”
“You want them to break in? Then why evac our people?”
Nova pointed at a picture of the gun in the hand of a soldier. “While they have those, too many of our own are at substantial risk. One shot, and they are atomized. Once we can be secure from their weapons, I want to provoke them to make the first move. Then, and only then, can we fight back. If the world sees us as the aggressors, then we are lost. But, if we are defending ourselves, we will be seen as the victims. And that is our only hope of swaying public opinion back to our side. Against all my personal feelings, public opinion is important if we are to maintain our operation in keeping this world safe.”
Robot 10915 announced. “Director Nova, analysis complete. Identifications confirmed.”
“Finally. On screen now.”
The various images from the League HQ’s being attacked changed to two pictures taken from the WMD attack. One side of the screen showed the male super, the other side was the female. Each had dozens of files on the screen with other pictures of each person.
Chase read the data aloud. “Dr. Lewis Mathews, surgeon at the Morristown Hospital in Hamblen County, Tennessee. Missing three months ago.”
Nova pointed to the woman. “Paula Frank, housewife and blogger. No children. Reported missing four months ago.”
Ambassador Talos came in, wiping his forehead. “Wow, you would not believe how much talking I have to do to get through to some of these politicians. I thought my committee work was arduous. Trying to convince these politicians that BAGE isn’t horrible is like talking to a brick wall that is currently trying to fall on you. Your robot monitoring me even looked bored, ha! Hey, who are those two people?” He stopped next to Nova and looked at the screen.
Nova said, “evidence. We now have confirmed three of the supers that are employed by the World Corps are missing persons who have been augmented. This proves that the augmented people that attacked Washington were created and used by the World Corps as a ruse to enact this current situation. Not only are they guilty of manipulating the UN and nations, they are mass kidnappers conducting illegal experimentation.”
Ben rubbed his chin. “That’s a lot of supposition from just a few pictures.”
Chase said, “it makes sense!”
“Now, now, don’t get angry at me. I have to think like the politicians I have to deal with. They always try to see the angle. And, you have to admit, that BADGE has an angle. But your evidence is pretty damning.”
Nova turned and headed for the back. “I’ll address this with the UN myself. They need...”
“Hold on, don’t rush into this.” Ben stopped him. “I know you want to make a point, and you certainly have one. You are still suffering under the propaganda spun against BADGE. I still have the better avenue to get this to their attention.”
Nova was silent for a moment and then pointed at 10915. “Get him the details. Ambassador, we need this done as quickly as you can. This situation could go south quickly.”
“Understood, on it.” Ben was led by the robot back to the conference room.
Chase asked, “what now?”
“Now, we find the information we need. You need to keep helping organize the evacuation of our people. I need to see Arx. He may be our only hope in finding the information.”
“Good luck.” She muttered and then put her headset back on.
***
Arx quietly watched the Avatars sitting quietly in their caged cells. Doctor Henderson let him take a break from all the attempts to harness his memories. He spent a long time just examining these noble creatures. All the Avatars of the Morphons were here, still frozen from whatever Dr. Osteen did to them.
He paused next to the Avatar of Strength, who was more lion than man. “Why did I have to be so arrogant? Look how much suffering I helped cause.”
“You didn’t do this.” Chase walked into the room. “You were merely another tool in the hands of evil men. Like these creatures, you were used and then tossed aside when they deemed you unnecessary.”
“I want to believe that. But they did not come willingly. They were forced here and then had to be restrained. I worked with the enemy. I helped them. I knew they were doing horrible things, and I went right along. How can I justify that to myself?”
Chase asked, “why the change of heart? The Arx we captured was all arrogance and ego. Even after we defeated you, you were nothing but a stubborn child. Yet, now you seem to have gained some wisdom. I’ve known a lot of villains who spent time behind bars. Most of them remained just as evil and stubborn as the day they were captured.”
Arx continued looking at the creatures in the cages. “I told you I felt shame for what I did. I am to blame.”
“I know. But I want to know where this came from. It takes a lot for someone of, if you will excuse me, the kind of ego you had.”
Arx smiled. “The world kept spinning without me. Hollywood is making movies...without me. My fans are now fawning over someone who is not me. Sitting up here, I realized I wasn’t the superstar I thought I was. I wanted fame and glory, and I had it, but it was a fleeting shadow. Ultimately, I was nothing more than a has-been. It hurt to realize this, but it also helped me see the world through humbled eyes. There was great suffering, and I helped it happen. Why did I do it? Looking back, I cringe when I realized I was just after more fame, more glory. There are people running scared, children crying in dark rooms, parents begging for help...all because of me. My legacy isn’t just tarnished, it has become toxic waste. I hate myself almost as much as I once loved myself. Do you know how that feels? I went from a flicker of light on a screen that made people happy for two hours to a villain that has left people in permanent pain. What kind of monster am I?”
“You understand humility, and it can sting pretty hard. But you can start recovering by helping us.”
Arx said, “I know. And I think I want to try something pretty drastic.”
Chase quietly said, “I know. Dr. Henderson told me about the procedure with that stuff we recovered from Dr. Osteens’ original lab. Nova wants this information, but he cannot order you to put yourself at such risk. It goes against our ethics.”
“Then I will spare your ethics. I’ll submit to the procedure. Whatever it takes, I’ll help. If this costs me my life, then I guess I will have paid for my crimes.”
Nova stood off to the side of the second largest conference room on the station with Ambassador Talos talking to the Human Rights Committee via a video call. Three massive screens displayed a panoramic view of a meeting room filled with representatives of many nations.
Ben Talos pleaded his case. “I have personally approached each of you over the past few days and provided a lot of information. Surely this has given you reason to show a little more trust for BADGE?”
A man with a heavy Indian accent said, “Mr. Talos, we appreciate your position. But we have also been approached by members of this World Corps with mounting evidence that BADGE is harboring villains.”
“They are skewing the facts. Yes, BADGE has a few members who have shown they are willing to act wrong. But they have been punished. Each of those members has also saved this world frequently. That must be considered.”
A woman spoke with a British accent. “BADGE has contradictory policies. They imprison some villains and allow others to remain among their ranks. That is troubling.”
“More troubling than kidnapping children?” Ben asked.
The Indian man replied, “there is no evidence that the World Corps is kidnapping anyone. They are merely being questioned.”
“Children?”
An American man said, “I agree. It is troubling to see them take children without parental permission. However, we have yet to see proof that this is an act of villainy, as you are inferring.”
“I have sent you the evidence that BADGE has collected. Three individuals that have been missing and now altered and working with the World Corps. If that does not concern you, then I don’t know what will.”
There was a light murmuring among the delegates and finally the Indian man said, “we find this concerning, but we are still waiting for an answer from the World Corps representative on this matter. For now, this evidence has given us pause in our decision on whether to recall BADGE’s authority.”
“Thank you.”
There was a chime, and the meeting ended, the transmission cutting off.
Nova said, “looks like they are not listening closely enough.”
“They never do. They always want someone else to give them the answer. They don’t like deciding, only debating facts until the facts die of old age. I just wish I could be there when this World Corps rep shows up to give them answers. I would love to know how they try to spin this.”
Nova led him out of the room. “I hate politics, always have. Nothing but power hungry people who love to use words to choke each other to death. At least you seem to handle them.”
“I have a flair for it.”
“Perhaps, once this is all over, you might consider a position as a BADGE official representative. I could use a man with your talents helping keep things smooth with the world governments and the UN.”
“It would be my honor.”
“Get some rest and something to eat. I have to see how things are progressing with another project.”
Ben asked, “what project is this?”
“I’d rather not tell you, for your sake.”
“I understand. Good luck, Director.”
Nova walked through the crowds that filled the BADGE station. Heroes from every corner of the planet were mingling and looking for a place to be comfortable in the throngs.
Gargoyle flew up spoke through a megaphone. “Hero Leagues who have been assigned to sections fifteen through thirty board the shuttles for the League Wars arena now. All others assigned to the arena, be ready to leave within the day. Thank you.”
Nova watched the crowds shift and move as large sections gathered and headed for the docking bay. Soon, the League Wars Orbital Arena was going to look like a refugee camp, but at least it gave them more space to spread out. The Leagues just got home from the last League Wars and now they are back up here.
After a long trek through the station, Nova finally found a calm, relatively empty area. He passed a series of special check points and was allowed into the laboratories. Dr. Henderson and her staff worked around the room with a table in the center where ARX was laying. He was naked, save for a skimpy pair of briefs, and had a dozen cords attached to him.
“Where are his clothes?” Nova asked.
Dr. Henderson came over as she checked a computer tablet for readings. “From what we can tell, this process will cause a surge of energy across his body that would likely set any clothing on fire. The last thing we need is the fire suppression system to activate and fill the lab with foam before we finish.”
Nova asked, “will this work? Will we get what we need?”
“I have no clue if this will actually work. But it stands the best chance.”
“What, exactly, will this do?”
She showed him her tablet, which was a blindingly complex series of calculations. “We will pull out the energy from his body, which will extract the energy that operates his mind. From that, this system will reorganize his memories into three-dimensional images. We will literally be able to project this in one of the holo simulation rooms and see everything around him.”
“If it is just what he saw, then why can’t we just get it out of him without this whole process?”
Dr. Henderson shook her head. “The mind is a powerful and strange thing. We don’t fully register everything we see. It is logged away as an image. By processing this image, we can see what he never really paid any attention to. Now, this won’t be a perfect replica of what he once saw, but it will be a much clearer image than he can produce...if this works.”
“Pulling the energy out of him...won’t that take his ability to think away?”
“Yes. In all the cases we have from the North Onnotangu records, the person was left either dead outright, or a vegetable.”
Arx spoke up, “Director, I’m willing to give my life to do anything to save the world from these people. They used me as a weapon. I want you to use me to stop them.”
Nova coldly replied, “I was told by the U.N. to execute you the day we captured you. I guess this will be a better way to accomplish that.”
Arx laughed, his face still facing the ceiling. “I’m sitting here, giving my life for this, and you still don’t trust me.”
“I don’t.” Nova answered without explanation.
Dr. Henderson was handed another tablet, as all her assistants came to a stop. She read it and then quietly said, “we are ready.”
“Do it.” Arx said.
Nova nodded, “get me results.”
The doctor waved her hand. “Okay, everyone out of the lab. Into the observation room. Arx...I don’t know how this will feel. I would give you something for the pain, but I can’t be sure if it would cause any problems.”
“Just get this over with.” Arx said.
Nova followed the staff out and watched them enter a separate room where they could observe and control the process.
Chase came up to him. “Are they ready?”
Nova nodded, “they are going to do it now.”
She headed for the observation room, but Nova stopped her. “No. I don’t want you seeing this.”
“But I promised I would be there for him.”
Nova held her arm and gave her the look of a father protecting his child. “You don’t need to see this.”
Suddenly there was a dimming of the lights in this section. The sound of whistling energy was outmatched by the screaming of a man. Chase held Nova’s arm and clenched her eyes shut.
Chase and Nova stood outside the lab, each trying not to cringe at the screams of agony coming from within. The screaming stopped and was replaced by an alarm. The computer announced, “Emergency protocol seven in place, emergency protocol seven in place.”
“What is that?” Chase asked.
“Nothing good.” Nova raced into the observation room and found lights flashing and the scientist in a whirlwind of activity. The large windows looking into the lab with Arx had massive metal doors covering them.
Dr. Henderson yelled over the sirens. “Shut down environmental protocols before the fail-safes destroy our work. Mr. Decker, redirect all incoming data to the back-up systems on deck one NOW! Computer, shut off that damn siren!”
Nova pressed his personal badge into a control station and the siren shut off instantly. “What the hell is going on?”
Dr. Henderson held up a hand in his direction, indicating she wasn’t able to respond. “Dr. Lightfoot, I need those systems back online asap. I want to know when it’s safe to go back in. Allison, get the emergency medical drones active. They will need to be on hand if we have a bio-hazard mess in there.”
“Yes, doctor.”
Nova came closer. “Did this go sideways?”
Dr. Henderson sat down on a short chair and looked at the computer screens before her. “Yes. Our systems were set to a specific level to gradually increase in power. However, all the programming failed at the same time, and the process activated at full power. Every computer system in that room was fried in an instant. We’re lucky that our systems are designed with enough back-ups. We got a lot of data out of him, but it almost didn’t work before everything went crazy.”
Chase whispered, “I...I will never forget the screaming.”
Dr. Henderson took a moment to answer that. “Neither shall I. I have violated my oath as a doctor and scientist in doing this. But the results could save millions, and he was willing.”
Nova quietly asked, “where can I view this information?”
“Go to deck four. I have the computer processing the information into a simulation there. It should already be compiling it. I’m going to check all our systems and see what the hell went wrong.”
“I will go see what we got for all this.”
Dr. Henderson grabbed his arm before he left. “Find something useful, please.”
***
Nova stood outside the doors of the simulator room. A small screen indicated the level of compiling left before it was ready for him to enter.
Agent Justin approached with robot 10915. “Director, I brought the robot?”
“Good. Robot, I want you to connect to the computer and record our observations.”
“Understood. Inquiry, Director. My primary role is operations of League Wars Arena...”
“You want to know why I asked for you.”
“Affirmative.”
“All the other robots are hard at work maintaining this place with all the heroes present. Your role is currently on hold. Now, get ready to take notes.”
“Understood.”
Nova pressed the now green blinking button, and the doors opened. They walked into what looked like the fever dream of a Hollywood celebrity. Images and settings that overlapped from all the various places Arx had been. His mansions and lavish apartments, celebrity parties and movie premiers. They walked through the set of The Afternoon Show where he was being interviewed.
“What are we looking at?” Justin asked.
“Arx’s memories, his life. We have ripped his very mind out of his body and put it on display. Now, we need to sift through this and find any part that was connected to Dr. Osteen’s work.”
“Okay....oh, I didn’t need to see that.” Justin held his hand over his eyes as they walked through the photo studio of the famous Playmodel Magazine shoot. Arx was their July centerfold nude model.
10915 pointed, “visual sensors have located evidence of a science laboratory.”
Nova walked ahead, and they left the famous life of Arx for the earliest days of his career. His bit parts in small movies and TV shows when he was still normal looking. They stepped out of that into a dirty old lab in the basement of a building. Arx was strapped to a table with a young Dr. Osteen standing near a computer.
“This is a nightmare. Look at this old equipment, and the state of this place violates all codes.” Justin sneered at the lab.
Nova said, “I don’t care how messy Dr. Osteen was. I need information. 10915 what do you have?”
The robot scanned with his mechanical eyes and then said. “I have found information on augmented morphonic powers.” it pointed at papers strewn near a computer.
Justin looked at the papers. “These are so clear. I can read them all.” He reached out, but the paper was as much a part of the desk as the paint itself. “Why can’t I hold it?”
“This is only a memory. Arx’s brain captured all the data, but only what he saw. 10915, is it enough to work with?”
“Processing....Processing...data provides over seventy percent of information required to decode process of augmentation.”
“Good.”
Justin pointed another direction. “The main computer is still compiling. Look, another lab is forming in the hologram.”
The trio left this laboratory for yet another nightmare, only this one was not dirty and disgusting, just filled with weapons. Arx lay on another table. This time he was already silver, but Dr. Osteen looked much older as he worked on him.
“I know this place.” Justin said.
“What?” Nova asked.
“The report we got from the others about the lab in Canada. This looks like what they described before it was destroyed.”
“This is likely that lab.” Nova said. He turned to say something when his one eye widened. “And I think we found what we’re looking for.”
They all gazed at a detailed blueprint of the anti-morphon gun. There were notes and studies taped around the board. Justin looked at the information. “Anti-Morphon Atomizer, or AMA. Looks like we have a name for it now.”
“What we have is a way to save our people and many others. 10915, report.”
“Processing...Processing...data is ninety-five percent complete. All information required to decode weapons is available.”
Nova actually smiled for the first time in too long. “Finally, a break. That man, he just saved this world.”
“Who?”
Nova turned and said, “Arx.”
***
Nova charged into the operations center of the station, with Justin behind him. Gar was in command and currently talking to a gloomy Chase.
“Finally, good news.” Nova opened up with.
Chase wiped her eyes and said, “did you learn something?”
“Yes. We have finally had two big breaks in this situation.”
“Then it was worth it.” Chase said.
Nova took her by the shoulders and said, “He saved us all. I know I said I didn’t trust him, but I cannot say anything other than praise for what he just did.”
“I didn’t love the man. He was arrogant and flirted worse than EB. But I sensed his broken heart in his last words to me. He finally understood right from wrong.”
“Arx will be remembered as a hero.”
“Arx?” Ambassador Talos came into the room.
Nova let go of Chase and addressed the Ambassador. “Yes. Arx just made a noble sacrifice to help us learn what we needed to know so we could turn this situation around.”
“Arx...as in the Hollywood celebrity who took over Los Angeles and committed mass murder?”
“The same. He had a change of heart.”
Ben gained a brilliant smile. “That’s wonderful. I mean, it is wonderful that he turned himself around and was able to help. I am sorry to hear that he perished. What did you learn from him?”
“Enough. We can now decode how they make these augmented people. But, more important than that, we have learned how to stop those horrible anti-morphon guns.”
“Those are incredible breakthroughs, and timely as well. I’m ready to return to the U.N. for an official visit. They have given me the floor to address all the delegates this week. With all the information we already had and now this, I’m sure we can turn the U.N. back to our side.”
“Good. Head down to the docking bay and find Strange Quark. He’ll get you there either by shuttle or portal.”
“I just need to grab my computer tablet with all this info on it, and I’ll be on my way. I have a lot to tell those politicians and this time they will listen to me.” Ben was off with a giddiness in his step.
Gar asked, “what do we do now?”
“Have some patience. Soon, we will move forward with a new plan to stop the World Corps, and this time, they won’t know we are ready for them.”
“What do you mean they have the specs on the weapons and our augmentation process!” Alpha bellowed at a screen.
Delta looked at her from his place in a distant location. “They extracted information from Arx that led them to this. I didn’t think we let him see enough to tell them anything, but I have underestimated BADGE’s resourcefulness.”
Gamma narrowed his eyes at the screen. “Have you told Beta this?”
“Beta knows. In fact, we are ready to proceed with the next part of this plan.”
“How!” Alpha shrieked. “If they figure out how to stop our weapons, we won’t be able to fight them. Our augment army isn’t big enough to take on all those loyal to BADGE. I am already getting reports of non-morphon heroes taking guns away from our mercs. This is out of control!"”
Delta remained cool and confident in the face of her rage. “Judge, I have a backup plan for this situation, one that will keep us in charge of everything.”
“What plan is this?”
“We will let BADGE make the next move and see what they do. If they proceed how I anticipate, I will move. Trust me, we will keep this world distrusting BADGE.”
“You had better make this work.” Alpha grimly stated.
Nova walked through the station back to the laboratories. It was still packed with people, but not as bad, since they moved a large portion of them over to the arena. After navigating the crowds, he returned to the same laboratories where they had been working with Arx.
Walking into the tech lab, he greeted them with his usual, “Report!”
Agent Justin smiled, “good news. We have already cracked the AMA weapons.”
“So soon? We just got that data six hours ago.” Nova hovered over where several engineers were working on computers. Complex numbers and diagrams filled the screens.
Justin gestured around the room. “Several non-morphon heroes have procured AMA parts from mercs.”
“I specifically ordered heroes not to…”
“I know. But, with those parts and this information from Arx, some of our tech savvy heroes on the station have cracked this.” Justin directed Nova over to a hero at a workstation.
Furious Squirrel pointed at the screen in front of him. “This was designed to use morphons to destroy morphons. It is actually amazing to see. It displaces the morphons in the target and since morphonic energy permeates all the cells of a conduit person, he or she has all of their cells destroyed in a matter of seconds.”
“Can we fight this? Can we stop it?”
The Avenger answered, “I’m already calculating a formula.”
“What?” Nova asked the cyborg hero.
The Avenger nodded toward his computer. “If my calculations are correct, then I can create an energy infusion we can use on a morphonic being that will make them impervious to the weapons abilities for up to five years.”
“What?” Nova asked again.
Justin explained, “he is working on a system like a tanning booth. Only, it will infuse an energy over the body of a hero and for a period of time that hero’s morphons cannot be affected by this weapon of theirs.”
“Will it work?”
The Avenger said, “we’re about to begin the first test. All simulations look promising.”
“Get me results. We have a world to save, and this could be our best chance of getting those horrid guns out of the hands of our enemy.”
Justin said, “I’ll call in more assistants from the heroes. We’ll get this done as quickly as possible.”
“Get on it.”
Justin hurried out of the lab.
Nova leaned over to check the readings on the computer when EB came rushing into the room. “NOVA, BUDDY!”
Nova caught him by his ears and held him at arm’s length. “EB, this is NOT the place for you to destroy anything.”
“I know, I know. I just gotta get you. Dr. Henderson said that something is happening in the biolab. There was this signature thingy and then she got all worried and confused and the door is locked and you need to bring your card or the system won’t open it. I don’t know what it is. I offered to get in. You know I can get in wherever I want. I am the Easter Bunny, but she said it was too dangerous. Like I need to worry. I am a mythic...”
“Dr. Henderson needs me?”
“That’s what I’m tell’n ya.”
Nova left the room with EB still firmly in his grasp.
Turning two corners, Nova returned to the place where Arx had been. Dr. Henderson stood outside with a sensor device held up to the door.
“Oh, good. EB found you.”
Nova dropped the bunny and approached. “What’s the problem?”
“I think someone sabotaged the system.”
“What!”
She nodded. “Yes. I have clear evidence programs were deleted that caused a cascade failure which made the system activate all at once. If Arx hadn’t been as enhanced as he was, he would have been completely atomized before we got a speck of data out of him.”
“Can you find out who?”
“I don’t know. I need to go in there and see if anything is still working. However, I scanned before going in and...well...I am detecting something organic in there.”
“What? You mean something is alive in there?”
“Yes. The damage to the room has made our internal sensors unreliable, but my independent scanner is still registering it.”
Nova typed in his personal code to the door lock, unsealing it. He then put his card against the lock and it flashed green. The door creaked open halfway and then stopped.
“Oh, dear god. Look at this place.” Dr. Henderson glanced in the room, finding all the surfaces blackened. Every glass object was shattered or melted. Flickers of light came from under smears of black clinging to the surface.
“Hello?” a voice said.
Nova’s face turned to fury. “Who is in here?”
A completely naked man with a perfect body stepped through the door. “I’ve been in there since I woke up. Something bad happened in there.”
EB covered his eyes. “Sweet cheese and crackers. He’s naked!”
Dr. Henderson ran her scanner up and down his body. “How are you alive? The radiation in there is deadly.”
“I don’t know. I don’t know how I got there. I’m Craig.” he smiled and looked at his reflection in a nearby window.
Nova asked, “Arx, is that you?”
“Wow, I’m looking good today.”
Nova said, “yup, it’s Arx.”
Arx turned back to them, completely unashamed of his state of undress, and asked, “who are you? Where am I?”
EB, a paw over his eyes still, said, “we are BADGE superheroes, and you are on a space station.”
Arx knelt down and smiled. “A talking bunny. How cute.”
EB removed his paws and then said, “OH GOOD HEAVENS, IT’S RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME! I’M GETTING YOU A COSTUME!” he raced off.
Arx yelled, “I need something that’s Greek!”
“Gotcha!” EB replied.
Dr. Henderson ran her scanner up and down Arx several more times. “He has lost all of his enhancements, and the energy in his brain is different now. But, it looks like his own natural super powers protected him enough to save his life. Amazing.”
“Superpowers. Oh, right, yeah. I got those. I want to use them as an actor, not a hero or anything. I’m up for a role in a television show about ancient Greece. Doesn’t pay much, but it’s a start.”
Nova was in a state of awe. “You don’t remember being enhanced with silver skin and better powers, being a mega star?”
Arx laughed, “mega star. I wish. It’s my dream to be a big action star. But all I’ve done are a few commercials and a lot of model shoots.”
EB zipped back and in a flurry of movement, he dressed Arx quickly in chiton and himation, two traditional ancient Greek parts of a man’s outfit. Stopping next to Nova, EB said, “there, still shows off the buff physique but we don’t gotta look at little Arx and his pals.”
Arx admired his outfit in the window's reflection. “Nice. This is good stuff, not the cheap costume materials I have to put up with. I look good in this.”
Nova pulled Arx away from the window and looked at him. “Son, I don’t know where to start.”
“Son? Are you my father?”
“Hardly. This is going to take time.”
A small team of radiation experts came through with devices to clean up the mess. Nova directed Arx along with him. “Come with me. We have a lot to talk about.”
Chase sat with Arx in a small conference room while they watched various clips from his movies. The whole time, Arx had a stunned smile on his face.
“It’s all true. That’s me.” He whispered.
Chase nodded. “Yes. You were the most sought after Hollywood action start for the better part of the past decade.”
“It’s like watching my life through a dream. I’m seeing what I’ve always wanted, but I cannot remember any of it. Do I have an agent? I bet I have movie deals waiting for me.”
Chase said, “your career ended when you did something bad.”
“Bad? Like what?”
“I...uh...don’t think it’s time for that yet. It could be an awful blow to your mind right now. It would be best if you stayed up here with us. The world isn’t ready for you to show up again.”
Nova’s voice came through the comm system. “Chase, report to Operations.”
“On my way.” She clicked her comm off. “Arx...”
“Call me Craig. I don’t know the name Arx.”
“Right, you took that screen name after you were enhanced. Craig, you don’t have quarters assigned yet, since we are way over capacity for this place. If you want to go get something to eat, I’ll find you a place to rest later.”
“Can I stay and watch one of these movies? They’re great.”
“Sure. Here, this is my favorite.” She called up his biggest seller, Alien Dominion part 1. “Sit back and relax. I have to go to work.”
She left him to his movie and walked out of the conference room and down a short hall into the Operations center. Director Nova, Gar, and EB were watching the main screens with the various news casts going live.
Nova saw her approach and asked, “how’s Arx doing?”
“Fine. It’s like we re-set him. He knows nothing of what happened since he first came onto the scene in Hollywood.”
Gar hesitantly asked, “are you attracted to him still?”
“Still?”
“You said you liked looking at his body when we watched that movie with him in it.”
EB said, “of course not!”
Chase laughed at the irate bunny. “I’m not attracted to him, not romantically. He has a nice looking body, but I need more than that to be truly attracted to a man.”
Nova said, “on to matters at hand. Our scientist had had a breakthrough. All tests with the AMA weapon’s energy are good. We are moving ahead with the next phase.”
Chase asked, “what’s the next phase?”
Nova gestured at a robot and the screen changed to the interior of the League Wars arena. Heroes moving at near-light speed worked on constructing what appeared to be tanning beds. “We have enlisted the speedster heroes to work with our robots and tech experts on constructing the Introduction System Beds. Once they are online, a hero will be placed in the ISB and be subjected to a mild irradiation that will allow them to survive any blast from the AMA’s.”
“This is amazing.” Chase watched the quickly constructing beds. “How soon will we begin?”
“They should be online within the hour. This is going to be fast and precise. Once we have all the heroes ready to go, they will return to the planet and begin confiscating those weapons.”
Gar asked, “wouldn’t that be like attacking this World Corps? Didn’t you want to avoid conflict with them?”
Nova nodded. “yes, I wanted to avoid direct conflict. But, the situation is growing critical. The people of the nations are getting polarized. Half the planet is scared that their neighbor might use morphonic powers and want the World Corps to abduct them. The other half wants to defend the rights and freedoms of people against being taken without reason.”
EB said, “listen to me, I have watched humans operate for centuries. Bad tyrants always set neighbor against neighbor so that the civilians are fighting while the tyrants quietly take control of them. It’s ugly and efficient. These stupid World Corps people are doing just this. Scaring humans into hating each other. Makes me want to shove an egg up...”
“EB is correct,” Nova interrupted, “the World Corps is only causing further discord. If we can disarm them, then they will have a much harder time enforcing their plans on the people. This will calm the population. At the same time, we have Ambassador Talos at the U.N. presenting our evidence against the World Corps. It will be a flanking attack that should finally put us back in charge of this situation.”
“Then what are our orders?” Chase asked.
“Gather heroes, get them ready for the infusion, and then inform them of their objective. I want our people getting those AMAs away from the World Corps mercs. Tell our heroes to do their best to have as little conflict in the disarming process. We aren’t taking captives, just their weapons. Once they are disarmed, they won’t pose much of a threat. I still want to avoid as much open conflict as possible.”
“Understood.”
The screen changed behind him, and Dr. Henderson stood there with a big smile on her face. “Director, we have twenty-five units ready for infusion. Send me some heroes.”
“At once.” He turned to the others. “Get out there and get the heroes moving.”
“Director Nova: Incoming transmission from Prime Minister Shizue.” A robot announced.
“Shizue?” Nova looked at the screen again. “Put her through.”
Shizue came on the screen with a gentle smile on her worried face. “Director.”
“What is the problem, Minister?”
“I don’t know. I just got a frantic call from Ambassador Talos. His communicator you gave him has been stolen, and he needs to speak with you right now. So, he called me, hoping I could make the connection.”
“I see. Put him through.”
She nodded to a person off to her right and the image changed to the inside of a poorly lit bunker. Ambassador Talos was disheveled and dirty. “Oh, thank goodness.”
“Ambassador, what’s going on?”
“They came. Those mercs from the World Corps showed up and attacked my office. They got my BADGE comm unit and were destroying the place, looking for something. I got into my security bunker under the building, but I don’t know if they are still there.”
Nova said, “they must know we have evidence against them. They want to keep you from telling the U.N.”
“I saved the evidence file. It’s in my pocket. I never took it out. I’m too scared to get out of here. I don’t have a security detail. I’m not that important. Can you help?”
Nova nodded. “I’ll send you a BADGE security to stick with you until this is all over.”
Talos asked, “can you send that agent that observed me? He and I work well together.”
Nova grabbed a tablet and smiled. “Agent Torrin Wolf. Sure thing. He’s a low-grade morphonic hero, which is why he works as an agent. He’ll be put through the ISB process right away and sent to help.”
“Thank you so much.”
A large unit of World Corps mercs set up camp near the WMD HQ. A grey skinned augment hovered around the area, keeping a close eye on things.
The commanding officer asked a subordinate, “can we get inside yet?”
The junior officer shook his head. “The security system is still keeping us out.”
“They want us to get into their computer system and we can’t do this standing on the front lawn. Get me in there. I don’t care what explosives we have to employ.”
The subordinate said, “sir, we already tried most of the explosives with us and the super has even attempted to gain access. Something is keeping us out.”
They both jerked at the sound of rumbling beneath them. “Where is that noise coming from?”
“I don’t know, sir. Our sensors cannot give us much information, other than a large life form is registering. It…well…uh..it looks like a dragon on our heat sensors.”
“Nonsense. We’re dealing with advanced tech, not mythical creatures.”
A bright flash of light appeared, and The Wizard said, “oh, but you are. In fact, you are dealing with my dragon, and she isn’t too happy right now.”
The mercs quickly mobilized and pulled out their weapons. The commander said, “halt, surrender...hero.”
The Wizard laughed at them. “I don’t think so. I’m upset, my dragon is enraged, and my team, well, my team is ticked off. Trust me, you don’t want to mess with us.”
Large green hands pulled aside the trees as Midgard came through with the rest of WMD. Midgard bellowed, “HAND OVER THE GUNS, PUNY HUMANS!”
The super came closer, hovering over the line of mercs with their weapons out. She said, “good, you’ve returned. Turn yourselves in for questioning and this can be over quickly. We have you outnumbered and outgunned.”
Hotwings tightened his gloves and smiled at her, “oh, you think so. Guys, enough banter, get the guns and kick their sorry butts outta here.”
The commander yelled, “fire!”
The mercs blasted away with their AMAs. The energy hit the heroes and nothing happened. Hotwings and The Wizard distracted the mercs, battling with them. Midgard grabbed their flying augment and spiked her right into the ground, leaving a pretty good-sized hole.
Shadows grew darker around the feet of the mercs, and suddenly Shadowwalker reached up and nabbed the guns out of their hands. Skelanimal jumped up and plowed right into the mercs one by one, also taking guns away.
Hotwings punched a soldier and then yelled, “Midgard! No killing! We’re only after the guns!” Midgard had a merc halfway to his mouth, ready to bite him in half. With a growl of disapproval, the giant serpent tossed the man aside and then smacked another merc against a tree.
“RETREAT!” the commander finally ordered, and the team rushed away.
“Let them go. We have their guns.” DaMon said.
Hotwings clicked his comm unit, “BADGE, we have guns.”
Nova came through, “good, deposit them at the nearest BADGE drop and keep going. I want all their guns before they turn them on the innocent.”
“Understood.”
***
Nova watched the monitor as many visual feeds came through. Heroes were all over the planet, confiscating weapons and sending the World Corps units retreating.
“Good work, Madam Marvelous. Check in with your League and make sure all the soldiers in the city are gone.”
“Yes, sir!” Madam Marvelous dashed through Tokyo with five guns in her arms, ready to drop them off.
Krystal Fae looked at him from her location. “Director, the World Corps soldiers have five of their augments with them. It’ll be a big fight if we go after them.”
“Where are they?”
“They have created a base camp in the middle of Hyde Park.”
“Don’t engage. I’ll send Quark with some speedsters. They’ll take care of the weapons. Just make sure those mercs stay put.”
“Understood.” Krystal Fae’s feed cut off.
Nova watched all the heroes working hard, a tally on the side of the screen showing the amount of guns they had already confiscated.
Furious Squirrel appeared on a screen from within the station. “Sir, we have been using the dismantled parts to make gear for the heroes.”
“Good, recycling is always welcome. Keep it up.”
“Aye sir.”
Robot 10915 announced, “message from Dr. Henderson. Please, report to medical bay five.”
“Tell her I’m on my way. If I’m needed, patch me through there.”
Nova left the Operations center with 10915 in charge. He walked through the station to the medical wing. Inside the standard med unit, Nova found Dr. Henderson checking data on a computer next to Arx, or Craig as he calls himself now. He was still wearing that Greek outfit with a distraught look on his face.
“Doctor?”
Dr. Henderson spoke softly, “Craig, Director Nova is here.”
Craig looked up like a child to his parent. “Oh, you’re here.”
Nova asked, “why did you need to see me?”
Craig said, “you were the first person I saw when I got out of that lab. You have been nice to me. I feel like I can trust you.”
“You can.”
“I saw the news reports from when I attacked. I hurt so many people. I destroyed Poseidon Island, murdered people in Hollywood…I…I can’t get the images out of my head!.” His words became a mumbled mixture of crying.
Nova calmly said, “I wish you hadn’t learned your unfortunate past alone. I had hoped to give you much more time before you knew anything about that.”
“I’m a monster. The world must hate me and they are right to.”
Nova pulled over a small chair and sat next to the bed. “The man who did that was not you. He was a creation of evil science and festering ego. Listen, you have an opportunity that no one else has ever had that I know of. You are the man you were before you made a string of decisions that led to that act of evil. You know what this path of ego leads to and now you can take a different path. The Arx the world feared and now hates is dead and gone. You can become someone else, someone better. You can learn from your own mistakes.”
“Even so. I know what I did. It will haunt me forever.”
Nova smiled, “you don’t know all of it. In the end, when you came to realize your mistakes, you offered your life to give us a fighting chance. Because of you, we have the information to contend against a threat greater than you ever were. Fate was kind. You survived the process and have a second chance. Don’t use this second chance to mire in self pity and regrets. The Arx you were died a hero in the end, now Craig can rise from the ashes.”
“I’ll try.”
“And I’ll help you.” Nova’s wrist comm beeped. “But we have an ongoing situation and I am needed in Operations.”
“Wait.” Craig stopped him.
“What?”
“I remember some things, flashes of my life before. There is a man in my memories named Delta.”
This grabbed Nova’s attention. “What about him?”
“I know where he is.”
Nova and Chase watched the events unfold through the various news reports coming in from across the planet.
A news reporter spoke to the London audience. Behind him could be heard the sounds of a fight. “Earlier today, heroes from BADGE attacked the location of a World Corps encampment. We were informed by the World Corps that the BADGE officials were attempting to free villains that the corps has apprehended during their questioning process. However, cameras only caught those same heroes disarming the World Corps soldiers. The heroes working with the corps attacked the BADGE heroes, and the fight is still going on.”
There was a flash of purple light and Krystal Fae stood next to the reporter. The sounds behind them had reduced considerably as heroes flew and walked away, each carrying armloads of debris.
“Oh, my. Oh, hello, are you with BADGE?”
“Yes, I’m Krystal Fae with the News Sentinel and member of BADGE. I wanted to state clearly for your audience that we have only come to remove lethal weapons from the hands of the mercenaries the World Corps hired. As you can see, we did as little harm to them or their superhuman as possible.”
He asked, “what about their detainees? We have been informed that your targets were those detained for questioning.”
She smiled, “we’re only carrying away the remains of those horrible weapons. There aren’t any detainees among them. Where they have put them is as much a mystery to us as it is to you.” A member of the World Corps’ security was coming toward them, obviously ready to address this. Krystal smiled at the camera. “I’m afraid we must dispose of the weapons. Thank you for your time.” In a flash, she was gone.
On the station, Nova let out a relieved sigh. “That was a good interview. Even though I asked our heroes not to speak with the media, Krystal did a fine job.”
Chase said, “she has experience.”
“Yes. And right now, we have the World Corps on the run. They can’t fight us, they can’t stop us. I just hope we can clean this mess up before they have time to shift gears and regain control.”
The elevator opened, Gar stepped out with Craig. EB sat on Gar’s shoulder, chattering away. “So, there I was, eggs all over the place, and these hunters were trying to find me. Dumb rednecks thought they could catch me. But, oh, no, I’m WAAAY faster than them. I think they were drunk. I swear I smelled moonshine. Oh, hi buddy.” EB hopped down and bounced around Nova. “It worked! Toldja it would. He ate three of em and BANG, his memory is that much clearer. It’s sooo much easier using magic on him now that he has all those old dumb enhancements drained from him. He’s a pretty cool guy, not the arrogant, pompous, Hollywood jerkface that...oh, sorry, Craig.”
Craig shook his head, “don’t worry. I read all about Arx on and off camera. I really got a big head for a long time. I never want to be that person again.”
Nova said, “we all appreciate the effort. Now, about that memory.”
Gar handed Nova a tablet. “He put in everything he remembered while under that memory charm EB placed on the eggs.”
Nova looked it over. “Interesting. So, they had a location in Canada, then they had a place in Nevada. But this...this is the most interesting place.”
“Where?” Chase looked at the tablet.
“The World Corps HQ. Looks like it has a secret sub-basement that is guarded by tetyron energy barriers. We have nothing that can see through that. But how did you know? I doubt they brought you there for experimentation.”
EB hopped up and down. “He had this brain blast, real memory explosion...BOOM! There he was, on the table. They thought they had him out, like sooo out he wouldn’t...”
“Let him explain.” Nova stopped EB.
Craig said, “like he said, they had me strapped down and Dr. Osteen pumped some kind of chemical into me to put me out. But, I guess my enhancements blocked it enough I could still hear. Dr. Osteen left the room, and this guy named Delta talked to a woman. He spoke about this place and that it was their HQ. I recalled the word tetryon. That is as much as I could recall, everything else is...gone.”
Chase said, “yeah, from what Dr. Henderson said, your memory isn’t just blocked or locked away, it was stripped out by the process. Nothing but bits and pieces left.”
Nova added, “It’s a miracle you remember anything at all. But this will give us a way to put a stop to them. Quark!”
A blue flash appeared and a five foot blue duck stood in front of them. “I was in the middle of my bath.”
“You bathe like that?” Chase asked.
“Yup.”
“What kind of tub?”
“A quasar.”
Chase muttered, “of course.”
Nova said, “get back to normal...at least what you call normal.”
“I hate that word.” Quark changed into his normal blue self. “So, what’s up?”
Nova handed him the tablet. “Can you get a team inside this place asap?”
Quark looked at the specs. “Hmmm, I can get you to this island. But not inside. Tetryon energy is in flux with normal space, which is why it’s so powerful. I might get through it, but if my fluctuations are off a tiny bit, it will scatter atoms across the entire solar system. Do you know how long that would take for me to put myself back together?”
Nova said, “Take Gar and Chase. Find a way to get inside that secret base. Apprehend members of their hierarchy and bring back their data.”
“Understood.”
Before anyone moved, a robot announced. “Director Nova: UN emergency meeting is happening.”
“What? Talos was supposed to meet with them tomorrow.” Nova and the others looked up at the main screen. “Put it through, now.”
To their surprise and ire, the screen showed all the delegates of the U.N. listening to Judge Alpha. “My people have been accused of kidnapping and murder. BADGE knows no restraint in their blatant attempts to thwart true, honest justice and security for this world. As you all have been seeing on the news, BADGE sent their enforcers into our camps to disarm my people, removing any modicum of balance against their power. And now, I find they aren’t just taking weapons out of our hands, they are leaving death in their wake.” The screens behind her showed entire legions of the mercs, laying in pools of their own blood. “We have volunteer heroes working to defend my people, but they are no match for the brute force of the BADGE villains.”
Chase gasped, “our people didn’t do that...did they?”
Nova shook his head, his face turning a new shade of red. “No. The World Corps murdered their own to craft this story. I underestimated the lengths they would go to.”
Alpha continued. “This news was only brought to my attention early today. I had come to make a different announcement, one that would hopefully put to rest the false narrative BADGE has created. It has been said that we are kidnapping people and never returning them. Due to the interference of BADGE and their allies, our process has taken much longer than expected. However, we are glad to be returning over three dozen children to their parents in Pretoria, South Africa, tomorrow. This will be the first of many returns that will show we only mean to do what is best for the world. Thank you.”
“What does this mean?” Quark asked.
Nova said, “it means that they are already changing gears to regain the upper hand. What I know is that they aren’t simply returning children. There is a deeper, darker reality behind this act. What I don’t know is what they plan on doing during this. They could be distracting the world from our report from Talos that will go live tomorrow. But, I just don’t know. Quark, Chase, Gar, get moving. We have to put a stop to them before it’s too late.”
Chase paused and gave Nova a smile, “at least we still have Ambassador Talos. Hopefully he can sway the U.N. to not trust Alpha and her lies.”
“I hope he does a fantastic job tomorrow. Now, move.”
The tension in Nova was tangible. Even the robots on duty seemed to notice. He stood as still as Gar as he watched the large monitor. One screen showed a shuttle flying through the skies over South Africa, dozens of news cameras taking shots of it. The other screen was the general assembly of the United Nations.
“Report from Agent Chase.” A robot announced.
“Put her through.”
The news screen shrank as a new window opened, with Chase standing inside the hallway of a military compound. Quark and Gar stood behind her, looking around.
“Report.” Nova commanded.
“We got inside. The place is abandoned. They rigged it to blow once we got here, but Quark turned all the explosives into frogs. We’re outside the tetryon field, blocking the innermost area of this place. It could be rigged as well. Quark couldn’t see in there.”
“Proceed with caution, but get in there now. We need their data.”
“Understood.” The screen changed back to the news.
A woman reported, “In moments, Ambassador Ben Talos will address the U.N. General Assembly on behalf of BADGE. It is unclear if this will happen before or after the drop-off of the children in Pretoria, South Africa. The World Corps has removed all of their agents from the streets of Pretoria, only local authorities will be present for the return of the children. We have footage from inside the shuttle.” The video changed to the interior of the shuttle where children gleefully played and chattered while reporters sat with them, just as happy to be there. “As you can see, the atmosphere inside the shuttle is one of joy.”
Nova watched all of this, hardly betraying any emotion. Agent Justin approached and handed Nova a computer tablet with daily reports. “Sir, what they are saying is true. The World Corps has removed their agents. It’ll be hard for us to prove they are villains if they keep acting so...well...honest.”
“True villains know how to capture the hearts and minds of people, Justin. Never forget that. They are playing their hand well. However, once we present our evidence, the tables might turn on them. One kind act is hardly enough to excuse all that we know they have done and are still doing.”
The screens all changed when Ben Talos stepped up to the podium with files in hand. An announcer spoke, “The U.N. General Assembly recognizes Ambassador Ben Talos, speaking on behalf of BADGE. You have the floor, sir.”
Nova whispered, “why isn’t our agent with him?”
Justin shook his head. “I don’t know.”
Ben Talos addressed the room. “Ladies and Gentlemen of the United Nations. I came here with vast quantities of evidence gathered by BADGE to prove maleficence from the World Corps. Recently, BADGE has set their heroes on a task of gathering weapons, weapons that are the only true method of keeping heroes at bay. The AMA is a weapon that no hero can truly defend against until BADGE cracked the system and developed a defense.”
Nova frowned. “What is he doing?”
Ben held up papers. “They have tracked the heroes of the World Corps to expose an evil ploy by this organization. However, I’m finding other evidence, other issues that BADGE has yet to explain to this body.”
Justin asked Nova, “what did he just say?”
Large images appeared behind Ben on the screen of Arx before and after his recent transformation. “BADGE not only has been working hard to thwart the plans to protect this world, they have been doing so with the aid of one of the most dangerous villains in recent memory. Arx, calling himself Craig now, gave them the information to crack the AMA and develop a method of defense against it. Any modicum of trust I had for BADGE was destroyed when I learned this.”
“WHAT IS HE DOING!” Nova yelled at the screen, causing Justin to take a step back.
The news screen was automatically changed when Chase came through. “Sir, we have something you must see.”
“Not now!”
“No, you have to see this.” She turned her wrist comm toward a computer screen in the World Corps HQ. Four images came through clearly on a large monitor, each one denoted with titles. Alpha, Gamma, Delta, and the last one, Beta, who had the same face as the man speaking to the U.N.
Nova lost color in his face, “Beta...is Ben Talos. What have I done?”
On the other screen, Talos called out, “It is time this body votes not only to sanction BADGE, but to hold the entire organization in contempt and remove any protections against their criminal activity. It is time to end their power by any means necessary.”
The computer tablet in Nova’s hand broke under the intense pressure of his grip. “Put me through to the U.N. at once! I want that image from the World Corps HQ and all the other data we have on the augments that he was supposed to present.”
“Sir, how can you get through?” Justin asked.
“I started the U.N. dammit, they will listen to me.”
A robot said, “all data pertaining to augments and their identities has been erased, back-up systems have been purged, data loss is complete.”
“I should have guessed he wouldn’t let us keep any of that data.” Nova threw the broken tablet on a table and picked up another. “We can recover lost data. There has to be a way. Justin, get me Dr. Cyber from the Wisewolf League, he...”
“EMERGENCY! NEWS ALERT!” a robot called out.
“Now what?” Nova turned to the screen to find that the news broadcast over Pretoria was dominating all the channels.
The shuttle was still heading for the city, but it now had smoke billowing from a hole in the back of it. Before Nova could ask what happened, a blast of energy split the shuttle in half. The ball of fire spit out two smoking hulls that slammed into the city. Sirens went wild in Pretoria. A gray skinned man flew through the cloud of fiery smoke and released yet another blast of energy that destroyed a large bridge in the middle of town. He hovered in the air and looked directly at the news camera. Around him flew orbs of colored energy, and on his uniform was emblazoned the word BADGE.
“Another augment.” Justin said.
“Get me a closeup of that face.” Nova commanded.
The screen zoomed in and scanned the face. A picture from the BADGE files appeared next to it.
Justin whispered, “It’s Torrin Wolf, our agent we sent to help Talos. What have they done to him?”
“Turned him into one of their puppets, a tool of mass destruction.”
Torrin flew away from the camera and sent a green ray of energy at the ground. In one swath of power, he obliterated an entire golf course, two buildings, and split a major highway in half. With a gleeful smile, he lifted his hands and split himself into two identical villains, each attaching different parts of the city.
“What do we do?” Justin asked. “If we send in heroes, they’ll spin it like they did the Washington attack. If we don’t fight, millions are at substantial risk and we’re blamed for not stopping him.”
Nova grabbed his special comm unit, “I don’t give a damn about public image right now. Too many lives are on the line.” He clicked it. “All heroes, this is a top priority. Get to Pretoria now. Stop the Augment, save the people.”
Justin took Nova by the arm, "Sir, Torrin is one of our own, he's my friend."
Nova gave Justin a pained, yet stern face. "His life has been taken from him already. Right now, we have millions in greater danger." There was a moment where Nova had to collect himself. He spoke uncharacteristically soft with his next words. "Losing good people will never be easy. We have to focus, time will come for mourning."
Sirens blared across Pretoria as heroes swarmed in two volatile clusters. The villain that destroyed the transport and attacked the city had somehow split himself in twain and was now two entities.
Midgardsomr threw a colossal punch at the augment, but his fist met a powerful energy barrier that caused the massive serpent to reel back. Another hero ran up the slithery hero's scaly hide and vaulted off Midgard’s massive head. Crystal Meth Anubis met the augment with a hard slash from his blade. The augment crashed into a building, creating a sizable hole.
Hotwings flew by, preparing his next attack. “Crystal! I thought you were...”
Crystal said, “nah, no time for recreation. I’m gonna take down this jerk.”
“STOP GABBING AND SMASH HIM!” Midgard bellowed.
Heroes poured out powerful attacks against the hero after he had regained his airborne position. The morphon orbs that flew around him seemed to keep him from taking much harm.
Midgard went to grab the augment, but the gray man vanished and reappeared next to the serpent’s head. Another hero bounced right off of Midgard’s head and shot the augment with two laser pistols.
“I AM NOT A STEPPING STONE!!!” Midgard screamed.
Furious Squirrel landed after his attack and skidded across a roof. He shot again, and hit the augment with a clean blast. Tapping his ear he said, “hey, guys, I just figured something out. This dude’s resistance is shifting. Looks like he’s weak to tech stuff right now.”
Punlork landed next to Furious and shot from his weapons. “Thanks for the heads up.”
Skynett flew by, readying some tech fists. “I figured that out thirty minutes ago.”
Furious huffed and took aim just in time to see a blast of psionic energy coming his direction. “Ah, nuts.” He was hit and flew hard off the roof. Furious tried to use his jetpack to control the flight, but he only achieved a faster arc across the city. With a long roll across the ground, he landed beneath the cluster of heroes fighting the other incarnation of this strange enemy.
A large fireball was thrown directly at him from the augment. He didn’t have time to react, but fortunately Madam Marvelous landed next to him and quickly changed to stone to protect him.
“You okay?” She asked.
“I’m alive, if that counts.” Furious got to his feet. “I figured it out. These augment guys can alter their resistance. We just...”
“Yeah, we know. This guy is currently taking lots of damage from magic.”
“Crud, I don’t have magic.”
Marvelous directed another blast away from them. “Don’t care, just shot him!”
Both heroes returned to the fight. Ringmaster raced by, shoved Madam Marvelous out of the way and unloaded a massive volley of firepower at the villain.
“Watch it!” Marvelous responded to the shove.
“Stay out of my way!” Ringmaster continued firing long enough for the augment to take a special interest in him.
Marvelous joined Ringmaster, but noticed the change in the augment. “He’s resisting our attacks!”
“That just means we need more pressure.” Ringmaster increased his firepower.
Marvelous jumped out of the way just as the augment plowed into the ground, shoving Ringmaster through a wall.
Street Fighter and Dun Ringill came up quickly and used mental powers to confuse the augment. This gave a wide open shot for Ringmaster to slug the enemy right into the air. Unearthly Mitch the Lich summoned a demon who caught the augment and drop kicked him across the town.
The two augments were coming closer as both sides had them on the run.
Skynetts’ voice came through, “their defenses against physical attacks are down, both are reading complete vulnerability to that morphon power.”
Marvelous answered, “we gotcha. Take them down!”
Anubis got one last shot at the primary augment and knocked him into the other augment. Both met and absorbed into one another. Ringmaster and Madam Marvelous joined power and hit the completed villain with one final blow. The swirling energy around the gray man evaporated and he crashed into the street below. All that remained of agent Torrin Wolf was a bloody corpse on a broken highway.
***
Nova stood in the middle of Operations with Chase, Gar, and Craig at his side. They all watched the emergency meeting of the U.N.
The Secretary General spoke. “After reviewing all the evidence from the events in Pretoria last week, the United Nations has renounced BADGE authority across borders, remove all funding for the BADGE organization, and condemn the members of BADGE that attacked Pretoria, South Africa. The criminal who murdered the children and other occupants of the shuttle was killed by BADGE’s own operatives, leaving us a difficult position of placing blame. We have issued an order of apprehension for Director Nova, who must be held accountable for the actions of his people. We have also issued international warrants for known villains among the ranks of BADGE and have placed an order of restriction against any so-called heroes who work for the various Leagues associated with BADGE. Until such a time that BADGE answers for these crimes, it is disallowed from operating within the borders of any allied United Nations entity.”
Chase almost spoke when there was a strange interruption on screen. A delegate stood up with Prime Minister Shizue beside her.
“Prime Minister, you have not been given the floor.”
Shizue said, “I don’t care. This body has no right to condemn without proper evidence. You have ignored the many instances of the heroes saving this world from minor crimes to global threats. The nation of North Onnotangu does not recognize the U.N.’s orders and will not continue to be part of the United Nations until this body agrees to hold proper hearings.” Without another word, Shizue stood and left. With her walked out several other representatives from other nations.
Gar said, “at least we have some allies.”
“She is a good ally,” Nova said. “Shizue knows better than anyone how dangerous politics can be when evil people manipulate populations.”
Chase whispered, "I just wish they knew that it was a friend who died, forced to work against his will."
Nova said, "we will remember Torrin and will not let those who did this to him go free."
Craig asked, “what happens now?”
December 31st, almost midnight:
Heroes rush in to the center of Neo Utopia’s town square. One old man, with a clever smile on his face, stands in the middle of the fray. Hero after hero attacks, but his ability to shift in time keeps them incapable of doing harm. More than once he blasted out a beam of strange looking clockfaces. Each time anyone encounters this beam, they are not harmed; they are turned into infants, naked and crying as they crawl out of the pile of costume that once fit them so snugly.
“Face it, heroes, I am beyond your powers. I am time itself!” Father Time taunts them.
Private Eye Peyton dashes into the square with a handful of heroes around him. Each has an odd fuzzy field of energy around them that makes them almost a blur. Father Time blasts them with his power, but it evaporates off the surface.
“What is this?” Father Time lost that confident grin.
Peyton skidded to a halt and took aim with his gun. “You aint the only guy in this city with time powers!” He shot, but Father Time shifted away.
“So I see. What do you think a small rag-tag group of heroes can hope to do against me? I am outside of time. Even with protection against my powers, they cannot hope to stop me.”
The heroes surrounded Father Time, keeping their distance. Peyton strolled up, still holding his old revolver. “Oh, we aren’t here to defeat you. That seems impossible. However... I used my power to help someone else.”
Father Time frowns. “Who?”
“Chase! Now!” Peyton called out.
Chase ran in, both her blades ready to strike. Father Time gained a strange look on his face at the sight of her. When she threw her blade, he shifted in time, but then everything slowed down. He saw all the heroes come to a standstill. The fires burning around him stop flickering, the babies stop crying.
“How is this happening?” He asks.
Chase comes right at him and nailed him in the face with a well-placed punch. “I can move time backward. With a little boost from Peyton, I can use my power to put myself in your past. You can’t shift while time is not moving for either of us.”
Father Time reached out to blast her with his power, but she moved out of the way and then grabbed the enormous clock he had hung around his neck. He fell over as she pulled it free of him.
“NO! MY POWER!” He cried out as she smashed the clock against the pavement.
Chase smiled, “now, it’s all over.”
Screaming people, blaring sirens, and flicker flames all returned to normal speed. Heroes moved again, babies crawled around. Then, those babies became adults. The various pockets of changed time reverted to modern time. The city returned to its modern appeal.
Peyton smiled, “looks like you did it!”
Chase nodded and then covered her eyes. All the heroes that had been babies were now naked adults. “Oh, that can’t be unseen.”
“Father Time, you’re under arrest.” Peyton aimed his gun at the old man.
Father Time smiled. “This is far from over.”
The world slowed down again and then began moving backward.
“Is this your doing?” Peyton asked Chase.
“No.”
Then, as if someone had reset all reality, everything rushed backward in time. They moved quickly through the days that had transpired since this all started. Suddenly, Chase and Peyton were standing in the middle of the Conference Center with Nova on a stage speaking.
“And as we continue to further our political connections with national...Peyton, what are you doing here?”
Just then, Rutkowski and Steelfist came rushing into the room. Two BADGE security guards were hot on their trail.
“HEY, NOVA, I GOTTA TALK TO YA!”
Nova yelled, “arrest them!”
“Wait, I ain’t done nuthin wrong dis time! Hey get yer hands offa me before I…”
“Hold on! Wait!” Chase called out. “Rutkowski isn’t here to cause trouble.”
That put a stop to the fight. The security paused in their attempt to arrest the pair of gangsters and Nova was red in the face. “Chase, explain yourself!”
Chase looked at Peyton. “He shouldn't be here. Rutkowski said he only got in just before everyone was trapped in the advent calendar.”
“You’re right. Look!” Peyton picked up the large clock she had been holding. “Father Time’s clock.”
Santa came over, his eyes filled with awe. “Where did you get that?”
EB joined Santa, his eyes glistening with a touch of fear. “Oh no, not that thing. Who had it?”
Chase said, “this belongs...or belonged to Father Time.”
Rutkowski said, “that’s the mug I was here ta warn ya about. he’s on the loose!”
Peyton said to Chase, “I think we changed time.”
While Chaz Hamilton scribbled down all that was happening, Nova calmly, but firmly, asked, “Chase, what is going on?”
Chase said, “Peyton will have to explain this. He was there.”
“Peyton?” Nova was not happy with that notion, but he turned to the P.I. and asked, “care to explain?”
Peyton went through the entire story from where he and the others here had been trapped in an advent calendar box created by Santa to the fight with Father Time that ended moments before New Year’s Day.
“And Chase and me ended up right here, in the middle of this conference. I guess this is where it all started. This time, though, it seems that we changed time and things are working out differently.”
Nova turned to Santa. “What do you know?”
“Him?” Chase asked.
Nova answered, “He locked us all in an advent calendar to protect us, apparently, and he has some knowledge of this device.”
Santa walked over to the clock in Chase’s hands. “This is a very special, magical timepiece. I should know. I helped create it.”
“You created this?” Chase held it up.
Santa slowly nodded. “Early in the exile here on your world, my people came up with an idea. We could use our powers to alter time. It is a dangerous magic that is horribly risky. But we desperately wanted to mend our lost world, return it to its former glory. I designed this with some help of the others. It was decided that it would be too risky to try it on our world. Too much time had elapsed. Then, there was a disaster here on this world and we used time magic to fix it, but it went wrong and we needed this to help solve the mistakes. So, I built it and it is infused with a massive amount of time altering magic.”
“Why didn’t you destroy this thing? It is dangerous.” Nova asked.
EB explained, “Destroying it would be impossible. It is protected by time. It has a spirit of its own, a will to exist and work. When it encountered the soul of a man that had the aptitude for power in him, what you would call a morphonic affinity, it bonded with him. We have been fighting to keep it out of his hands for centuries. How he got it this time, I don’t know. With all that events around the war with Jinn, it is any wonder that stuff went missing.”
Peyton eyed Rutkowski. “maybe he had help stealing it.”
Rutkowski glared back at Peyton. “Look, gumshoe, I ain’t ever helping that geezer. He has tried to ice me for years. He wants to suck my power away, and yers. But, he ain’t nothing without his little watch. When I saw him with the clock, I knew it was trouble. I ain’t fight’n him with this thing in his hands, it’d be suicide. So, I ran to the only jerks I know who can try to stop him, BADGE. And you can call off yer goons, Nova. I’m on parole. I ain’t break’n any rules today.”
“See that you don’t. Now, get out of here and keep your nose clean.”
“Yeah, whatever. Come on, Steelfist, let’s go feed some pigeons or something.” Rutkowski walked out with his hulking goon on his tail.
“You want me to trail him?” Peyton asked.
Nova said, “do whatever you want. This conference is over. We are taking this clock back to the station and checking to see if there was any residual damage from the time shifts.”
EB hopped over and got near Chase with a big smile. “Looks like you get a second try at Christmas, and I just happen to have put up Mistletoe ALLLLL over the station.”
“I told you to take all that down.” Nova stated.
“And not put it to good use. No siree.”
Santa held onto the clock and joined the group returning to BADGE.
Two weeks pass normally. The world remains almost oblivious to the time warp that nearly destroyed the planet. Only a select few among BADGE know of the alternate timeline that was created by Father Times’ attack.
EB bounced around the Operations center with all the energy of a two-year-old toddler full of espresso.
“I love New Years! It’s a great holiday, dontcha think? People celebrating, kissing...I love the kissing....I got a kiss from Chase last night. It was great, GREAT, GREAT!” He bounced off of computer consoles, broke the head off of one of the working robots, and smashed a monitor screen.
“EB!” Nova bellowed.
“Sorry, I lost control. I didn’t mean to do that. I have been doing so much better lately. I haven’t broken anything in at least two weeks, unless you count that one door, and the window in the arboretum, and that computer tablet in the mess hall, and...”
Nova huffed and clicked his comm. “Maintenance, robot and computer repair needed in Operations.”
“Understood.”
EB bounced in a circle around Nova.
Nova clicked his comm again, “Dr. Henderson, what’s the most potent sedative you have?”
“Bidenarline, though it often causes the user to mumble incoherently for a while after it wears off. Why?” she answered.
EB continued his circular bouncing. Nova muttered, “just checking. Nova out.”
Gar and Chase walked in. Gar beamed the same congenial smile he always had while Chase looked as tired as EB was energetic.
“I see you’re still hung over?” Nova said.
Chase shushed him with one finger. “I don’t normally drink like that. But, after all the crap that happened during the holiday season, I sorta let go. I think I got so wasted I kissed a rug...I woke up with fur on my lipstick.”
EB called out, “That’s rabbit fur, baby, and you LOVED it!”
“Oh, god. What did I do last night?”
Gar said, “you kissed EB for five whole minutes.”
EB hopped over to her, landing on a nearby computer station so he could be closer to her face. He winked and said, “and you loved every second of it.”
“You little rodent! Is that why you kept offering me those chocolate liquor filled eggs?”
“Don’t tell me you didn’t like em?” He smiled at her.
She glared at him. “if my head wasn’t pounding, I would pound you.”
He smiled even bigger. “sounds like a good time to me.”
“UGH! Gar, throw him out an airlock!” She stomped away.
Nova stopped this little conversation. “Enough. We all have work to do. At least, today should be a simple one. Chase, you can take the morning off. I don’t like my agents to be hung over while on duty. Gar can take your shift. EB, you can go help clean up the mess hall from the New Year’s party.”
“Hey, that’s robot stuff,” EB protested..
“That reminds me, don’t break anything while you’re down there.”
EB hopped away while muttering aloud, “fine way to treat a legendary figure. Make me pick up trash. Just because I was snogging the hottest girl on the station last night doesn’t mean I need to be punished, but no, I...” The elevator opened and Santa stood there.
“Oh, Easter Bunny, good morning.”
EB said, “Santa, whatcha doing up here?”
Santa walked into Operations. “I’m here about the clock.”
“Already?” EB asked. “I mean, I know we gotta get that thing secured, but it’s pretty safe up here.”
“You know as well as I how dangerous that thing is. Father Time got it once. If he gets it a second time, we could be in real danger.”
Nova spoke up, “I hate to interrupt this conversation in my operations center, but what is going on?”
Santa walked down the stairs to the main floor and spoke to Nova, “the clock, we need it returned to a secure location. I have spent the past two weeks bolstering the security around the holding place in the North Pole. This time, no one will get their hands on it.”
Nova said, “I would like to wait and see if fractures form this time. “
“Fractures?” Chase asked.
EB answered, “oh, there was this...”
“EB, enough.” Nova ordered.
“I was just gonna tell her...”
Santa said, “EB, we really should keep that to ourselves for now. Nova, I don’t believe we should be worried. I would much rather it be away from this station. It is too close to...uh...perhaps we should talk in your office about this.”
Nova looked at Chase and then back at Santa, “that would be wise.”
“Is there something you’re not telling me?” Chase asked.
Nova gave off a clever smile. “Of course, about many things. For now, just get the clock out of the secure vault and prepare for transport. Gar, EB, go with her and keep it safe.”
Santa quickly added, “Angela...sorry....Chase, whatever you do, do not use your powers on that clock.”
“Okay. I won’t. Come on Gar, let’s go.” She left with EB and Gar close behind her.
***
Two cargo boats left the dock on the river that ran beside Neo Utopia. Each was loaded down with empty containers being shipped out to sea.
“So, you ring in the new year?” Bill asked the dock agent as they watched the ships depart.
Greg, the agent, said, “like always, snoring my head off. I don’t have the luxury of staying up all night when I have to be up at four AM.”
“It was the same as last year, big colored ball drops, confetti all over Times Square, and then people sing an old song. I watched it, then went back to my poker game.”
Greg scribbled on a paper clipped to a board. “You got any plans for the next League Wars?”
“Yeah, the guys and I are getting a big watch party put together. My favorite League is gonna win this time. I just know it.”
“Sure they are. Like you said they would last time.” Greg laughed.
“I blame the rankings! Everything is all messed up. Now, this time, I’m sure the matches will be more even, and then you’ll see.”
Greg walked out as he said, “blame the rankings, blame the score board, blame the referees, but never blame the players. That’s a sports fan for ya.”
“Look, the referees last time were all blind. Did you see how....what the hell is that?” Bill stopped and stood back.
Greg looked up to see what appeared to be a large crack in the middle of the air. It was wide and had a strange energy coming out of the edges. Inside the crack was like looking back in time. They could see the river and land behind it, but the buildings were decades out of date. Suddenly, a great horn screamed as a ship came crashing through it. Parts of the vessel met the edges and were shorn off. The boat rocked forward and then a new siren blared a warning as it instantly sank. Soldiers dressed in WWII uniforms were diving off to avoid going down with the ship.
“Are you seeing this?” Bill asked.
Greg nodded and then realized the catastrophe in front of him. He dropped his clipboard and rushed back to an emergency phone. “EMERGENCY, WE HAVE A SINKING SHIP, I REPEAT, WE HAVE A SINKING SHIP!”
Chase and Gar followed EB through the station to a set of elevators near the detention area. Each had to put in their own personal security code and then have their id checked by sensor. Once cleared, they were allowed in and zoomed down to a lower level deep in the bowels of the station.
The air hung thick in the dark corridor that lit up at their presence. Only one door was secured at the end, with yet another double security check system. After clearing their id’s a second time, they were allowed into the sparsely filled room. Pedestals were set around with items on them under heavy security glass, which was only one layer of the security for each item.
“I have not been down here before. What is this place?” Gar looked at a sword that had flames flickering up and down the blade.
EB hopped along. “Nova’s personal trophy room.”
“No, it’s not.” Chase stated. “These are special, powerful items that have been secured by BADGE over the years.”
EB said, “most of which were obtained by Nova during one of his many exploits. OOOH, looky, it’s the Star of Astoroth, now that’s a story I’d love to hear again. Hey, this is the Eye of the Storm, a ruby that once caused the biggest hurricane ever. Like, I...”
“We aren’t here to chat about all the other items. We need to move the clock.” Chase stopped at the large watch-like clock on a pedestal in the back."
Gar asked, “I thought the vaults with all the super secure stuff were at the old BADGE HQ in New York?”
Chase said, “most of the stuff is still down there. Nova wants to gradually bring it all up here. A lot less likely anyone will break into an orbiting space station. Even though the HQ security is incredibly firm I...” she touched the glass and all at once she was standing in the middle of Rome. It was on fire and there were giant cracks in the sky. The cracks each revealed a different sky than the real one. Suddenly, she was standing in a different place. Shadowy figures stood around a small crib. One had to be Santa, but she did not recognize the other. A voice said, “so, you named her Angela?”
“Chase!” Gar called out, and she found herself once again in the vault, with Gar holding her arm. She had been yanked away from the case.
“What just happened?” She asked.
EB frowned. “You just stopped talking and then stood still.”
“I was standing in Rome, and it was on fire. The sky was strange, like it was made of glass and someone had broken it. Then I saw...I don’t know what I saw, something about my past, I think?”
Gar asked, “did you see the future? Is Rome in danger?”
“I can’t see the future, only the past.”
EB casually said, “no one can see the future. What she described was the time when we broke Rome. Well, we didn’t really mean to. It was Jinn. He fought us and there was a big time reversal we had to use, and that caused time to fracture. I was a scary time, like so scary I thought we were all gonna die.”
Chase said, “wait, you told me this story before. Jinn tried to take over the world centuries ago, but you guys had to stop him. He had wrecked most of Europe in the process, so the Mythics all used a special power to reverse time back enough to undo the damage.”
“Glad you were listening.” EB smiled.
Gar said, “Chase told me that story. But she forgot the breaking sky part.”
“I didn’t tell you that because EB didn’t say the sky broke.”
EB shrugged, “it was after all that happened. And it was kinda too scary. Besides, we got it fixed. The clock saved us.”
“The clock?” Chase asked.
EB looked back and pondered this for a moment. “I suppose Santa won’t mind me telling you this much. Besides, I like story-time with you. Can I sit in your lap when I tell it?”
Chase said, “no. Just tell me about this clock.”
EB pouted for a second, but continued anyway. “Fine. Well, time magic is very, very dangerous. Like SUPER dangerous. No one of my kind has the power to truly mess with time. Humans that have time based morphon powers are limited to small shifts, or local stuff. The big stuff, like reversing all time, is too much for anyone to handle.”
Gar said, “but that Father Time guy was doing it?”
“Don’t interrupt.” EB said. “Like I said, it isn’t for any one Mythic. However, after Jinn totally messed up half of your world, we had to do something. We couldn’t allow anyone of our kind to do this much damage. It would have taken years and years for your people to fix it all. So, it was decided that we would culminate our powers and reverse time just enough to reset the world to just before Jinn messed it up. It worked and everything seemed hunky dory. But then time fractured. Those fractures turned into more fractures. Time was overlapping in places and stopping in others. It was bad. There were like dinosaurs walking around Egypt, and some Roman soldiers trying to take over Beijing. This one guy was sailing and went right through a fracture and ended up crashing into himself as a boy and that was a big time explosion. It was worse than the time I hid all the eggs two days early. I know, it was a mistake, but I had so much on my mind that year, and then the chocolate companies were behind on stock, and...” he could see the looks on their faces. “Sorry, rambling. Anyway, Lord Jade had a good idea. We craft an object that would be just outside of normal time and use it as an anchor for time. That’s when we created the clock. Santa made it, he’s really good with the metal smithing and jewelry making. The rest of us pooled our magic and created a spell that fixed time.”
Chase frowned, “so, this clock keeps our time from falling apart?”
EB laughed, “oh, no, no, not like that. Once we had finally fixed time, this clock was no longer needed. We just needed something that was outside of the fracturing time. However, the clock is still extremely powerful and holds a great deal of time altering magic, which is how Father Time used it.”
Chase said, “I didn’t know about that. But...”
“But, what?” EB asked.
“I saw something else. I saw...my past, I think. Santa was talking about me with someone. I don’t want to believe it, but I think the voice I heard was Father Time. Do you know what that means?”
EB became nervous. “I...uh...well...I can’t say.”
“But, I can.” Santa replied, walking into the vault with Nova behind him.
“Father? What did I see?” Chase asked.
Nova said, “Santa, are you sure about this?”
“Yes. She deserves to know. Chase, my dear, Father Time....is your grandfather.”
Chase was taken aback so much that she nearly fell into Gar. He held her up and made sure she wasn’t too close to the clock.
“MY GRANDFATHER! HOW?”
Santa said, “the night we found you, after that fire broke out, I wasn’t aware that the fire was started by a scientist who was experimenting with dangerous items. He was possibly the most brilliant human alive for his time. However, his work was too dangerous, and he nearly got himself killed. He was selfish, cruel, and dangerous. But, he was also a conduit.”
“Conduit?” Gar asked.
EB said, “he could use morphons, something a few of the humans have, like Chase.”
Nova said, “in my personal work, before the outbreak of the morphons, I tracked all the conduit humans I could find. They had in them the ability to go beyond normal human capacity. Most never realized it, but a few did. Da Vinci, Copernicus, Newton, Curie, many turned out to be brilliant men and woman who advanced science and knowledge. However, a few used their talents for evil, which is why I kept tabs on them.”
Santa walked over and held Chase’s hands. “Just after we found you, your Uncle Krampus searched for any relatives. He wanted to send you back to the humans. The only relative we found was your grandfather. His heart was wicked. He wanted to find a way to live eternally. When he saw you, he said he had no use for a child. I never wanted you to feel abandoned by your only living relative, so I never told you about him. If he had ever reconsidered, I would have allowed him to be a part of your life. But he was altogether evil. I’m so sorry for not telling you this before.”
Chase smiled at him. “father, you protected me all my life, and that meant keeping me from a man who would likely have rather left me for dead. I forgive you.”
Gar asked, “so, this Father Time is three hundred years old?”
“Not exactly,” Nova said. “The man who became Father Time discovered a way to save his mind and transfer it into the body of others. Chase’s real grandfather died centuries ago, but his mind lives as it jumps from body to body when his current body nears death.”
Santa added, “Father Time fooled me. His experiments weren’t just about his living longer, they were about time itself. Somehow, he has worked for centuries on a way to get to the clock, which he did recently. His obsession with living eternally has driven him to want time compression, so no one ages ever again. He is a dangerous madman.”
“Why tell me this now? It seemed like you and EB wanted to keep this secret from me just moments before we came down here.”
Santa looked at EB and then back at Chase. “We have a problem.”
Nova waved his hand. “Come with me.”
Everyone left the secured vault and walked back through the station. At each checkpoint, they had to reaffirm their identities and be scanned for any stolen goods. Finally, they stepped out into the arboretum. Students and faculty alike were pressing their faces up against the large windows overlooking Earth.
Chase paused and gasped. Large gaps were forming in the atmosphere, with crackling lightning spreading between them. Looking through each gap revealed a different time for Earth. Some were showing darkness of night, others had wild hurricanes, still others revealed a wasteland of volcanoes.
“Are these fractures in time?”
Nova slowly nodded, “yes, and they are getting worse.”
Santa said, “this is far more broken than before. Before, we merely moved time in one direction last time. Father Time’s attempt at compression moved time erratically. I feared it was too great a strain on the temporal balance, and I was right to be worried.”
“We must use the clock and fix this!” Chase said.
Nova looked at her, “you are correct, we must use the clock to fix this. But...we are going to need Father Time’s help.”
“WHAT?”
Santa said, “he has inherent attunement to temporal flux. He can control time better than any one Mythic. Last time we had many of my kind working together to fix this, this time it is only EB and myself. We aren’t strong enough. We will need help.”
Chase asked, “how do we find him? He vanished after the battle in Neo Utopia.”
“That is why we had to tell you the truth. We are going to need you to bring him here.”
“Like I know where he is.” Chase retorted.
“No, you don’t need to know. You only need to call him.” Nova said.
“How?”
Santa turned to her and took her hand. “What little is truly left of your grandfather still resonates with the same power that is in you. You have temporal powers, which you inherited from him. By touching the clock and calling out to him, he will hear you across space and time itself. We must put our hope in his willingness to respond.”
“Sounds like a pretty big risk.” Chase said.
Nova gestured to the world below. “If we don’t risk this, then we will lose everything.”
Chase let out a hard sigh. “I’ll do it.”
Nova and Robot 10915 stood in the middle of an empty League Wars Arena field. As they walked along, 10915 would click a remote and the large light fixtures would lift off from their nested positions and hover in the air, coming to life.
“I want all the cameras to be completely inactive.”
10915 answered, “visual recording devices are offline while not in use for League War events.”
“I know. I just want you to double check. The last thing we need is for the media to see us working with a villain.”
“Understood.” 10915 walked away to check on the media controls.
EB came out and hopped alongside Nova. “I don’t like this. I don’t like it at all. Working with a villain is bad enough, but you are handing him a powerful tool that he has already used. In fact, he used this to cause the problem that we are asking him to fix. Didja think about that? I mean, that’d be like finding Jinn and asking him to take over the world again. We are gonna really be sorry if he messes this up. I know it’s bad, but is it really this bad? Could we do something else, I dunno, like combining other heroes’ powers together and seeing if they could do something? There are heroes with time powers that might be able to do this. There is a guy that can bend time and this one babe who can freeze time in a bubble. She is totally hot, but froze me for like two days in a bubble when I just offered her an egg. Well, I did try to tuck it into her cleavage and she didn’t like that, but it was a good and wide hiding spot, right there. Who can blame me? She is so...”
“EB!” Nova finally barked at the rambling rabbit.
“Sorry. I’m just a little nervous. I don’t even remember the fight with Father Time, and I know it was bad news.”
“You’ll get over it.”
A bright blue flash startled them and Strange Quark stood there with Rutkowski and Peyton on either side of him. Both looked about ready to punch the other. “I rounded them up.”
Peyton started to say something, but Rutkowski interrupted him. “Look here, Nova, I aint one of yer stooges. Yous can’t just come and call me up fer duty.”
“What is HE doing here?” EB blurted out.
“Look here, furball, I aint here on my own free will, got it.” Rutkowski replied.
Peyton said, “I know you have your reasons, but trusting Rutkowski is not something you should consider.”
Before Rutkowski could hurl insults at Peyton, Nova said, “Enough. Peyton, Rutkowski, you have been briefed on this situation.”
“Yes, sir.” Peyton answered.
Rutkowski sneered, “I got da message. But I still don’t like work’n fer ya.”
“You aren’t working for me. You are helping protect the planet. If this goes smoothly, you won’t have to do anything.”
Rutkowski leaned in, “so, if I ain’t got ta do anything, do I still get some time shaved offa my community service shtick?”
“Yes. Now, Quark, you know the placements. Get them where they need to be and you two be ready to react if the time calls for it.”
“Ya, ya, I know what I’s gotta do.” Rutkowski followed Quark with Peyton beside him, both ready to punch the other in the eye.
Chase walked out with Santa near her. He carried the clock.
Nova met her. “Are you ready for this?”
“Not exactly the family reunion I expected, but then I guess I’ve gotten used to that.”
Santa held up the clock. “Let Nova and me get into position, and then you do what you have to do.”
“Yes, father. Good luck.”
“I hope we don’t need it.” Santa walked away with Nova.
The League Wars Orbital Arena was active with the lights aglow, but there were no spectators or hovering holo screens. A few people dotted the perimeter of the field while Chase stood in the center, holding a large watch in her hands.
From here, the large fractures in time could be seen all over the earth. The chaos was unimaginable, time was imploding with no sense of past or present anywhere. The rifts would soon expand beyond Earth and the station would be overtaken by them.
Chase wasn’t thinking about time breaking or the danger to the world. She was thinking about the next person she would speak to. It was possible he wouldn’t answer their call, and that could spell doom for the world. Yet, she felt a tight knot in her stomach at the thought of meeting her grandfather.
Holding up the clock, she did as her father, Santa, told her and used her power. She moved with it backward in time through its existence. She slowed the process down when she arrived at the last time it was in the hands of Father Time. Normally, she could only observe the past through this process, but by the power of this clock, she could interact, but only with those who had the power to hear her.
“Father Time, we need your help. Time is breaking and will soon cause a catastrophic destruction that will consume the entire solar system. You have the power to control this device and, with it, undo the damage to time. Follow this time stream back to the present and meet me in the Orbital...”
“Angela, I am here.” His old voice surprised her.
She let go of her power and found Father Time standing in front of her in the middle of the field. The other people around her were equally shocked at the sudden appearance of this foe. “Father Time, where did you come from?”
He smiled with his aged face. “Time moves instantaneously. I heard you and I came. I wondered if BADGE would ask for my help. Time is splintering so terribly.”
Chase gulped back the tightness in her throat and focused herself. “You caused this problem. You need to help fix it.”
“I did not cause this. The sudden cessation of my time compression caused time to fracture. If I had been allowed to complete my goal, then this would not have happened.”
Chase said, “no one could live in such a world. Time must move.”
“I see you have been led to the same lies as your adopted father and all the others. Fools. My goals are for the good of all, yet no one can see it.”
“Please, we don’t have time for this. Will you help?” She held up the clock.
Father Time smiled and looked at her. “You are a beautiful woman. I am proud to be your grandfather. It is a shame that you had to be taken from me. I could have made you immortal, just like me.”
“I don’t want your immortality, stealing lives of other simply to live as a parasite.”
He laughed, “parasite. I take only the bodies of those near their own end. With my power, I can live in this old body for decades, when the original owner had mere days.”
“You aren’t doing them any favors.” Chase spat out.
He shook his head, “how you fail to understand me. Oh, well. I suppose that is my fault. I should have taken you three centuries ago and not let you be raised by hopeless fools.” He reached out, “I will take the clock and fix time.”
Chase hesitated to give him the clock.
Nova called out, “Give it to him, Chase. It’s our only hope.”
“Yes, Angela, I am your only hope.”
She thrust it into his hands. “don’t call me Angela. My name is Chase for you. Get this over with.” She stepped back and crossed her arms.
He caressed the clock and smiled. “I see Santa has unsealed its powers for me. How nice. I will need this level of control to accomplish what is needed. Ah, the feel of pure time power, how wonderful. Yes, this will suffice.” He produced a strange wooden staff in the air and attached the clock to the end.
Santa called out, “what is that?”
“Just a tool. Don’t get your beard in a twist. Now, watch a master of time work.” He held up the clock and his body crackled with energy. All at once, the energy filled the clock and a powerful wave exploded out of it. It rang like a perfectly tuned gong. It rang again, and then again, each time the sound and vibrations growing with intensity.
Everyone watched with bated breath at the fractures in time. The holes slowly sealed themselves. One by one, they closed. Where people and objects had emerged from them, the items out of time vanished as their fracture closed. Soon, the world had no more fractures, and all was back to normal.
With the last gonging sound, Father Time lowered the staff with the clock on the end. He beamed with pride at his work.
“There, all repaired, and with time to spare...if you don’t mind the pun.”
Chase held out her hand. “Thank you. Now, return the clock.”
He lowered the staff and pet the clock for a moment. “It is such a shame to hand this over to people who don’t respect the incredible power that is time itself.”
“Now!” she insisted.
Father Time smiled, “to think, with this I now have the power to compress time and achieve my centuries-old dream. I would be the savior of all humanity. The end of death and suffering.”
Chase produced a blade with her free hand. “Give it back, now.”
“I don’t think so.” He held it up and another gong sound came and she was thrown aside by the power. “Time is at my mercy!” He stabbed the staff against the ground and a brilliant light shone from the clock.
“PLAN B!” Nova called out.
Santa, EB, Nova, Rutkowski, and Peyton all held out their hands. A barrier formed around the field. The power emanating from Father Time met this barrier and stopped.
“Clever, Nova, as always. Your collective time powers can stall me, but you cannot fight me and keep it active.” He held the staff higher and the power from it grew. The barrier rippled hard while those crafting it strained to keep it active.
Chase threw her blade, but Father Time simply avoided it by shifting in time. She clicked her comm. “Gar, Plan B!”
Gar, in the Operations center on the station, pressed the all-call button on the computer station.
“Heroes, Father Time has betrayed us. Get to the League Wars Arena! All heroes! FIGHT!”
Heroes rushed to the League Wars Orbital Arena after Gar’s call. The place where they often competed against one another became a unified battlefield against a single foe. Quickly, Father Time realized he was overwhelmed and used his unique talents to split himself into two beings to face off against the enemy on two fronts.
Father Time used his newly crafted clock-staff to blast out waves of temporal energy. Fleagle rushed across the field, heading directly for Father Time when one of those blasts hit and he was encapsulated in a bubble of frozen time, leaving him mid-jump at his enemy. Two more heroes tried a sneak attack and were turned into babies for the effort.
“GRAB THEM BEFORE THEY GET STOMPED ON!” Astra yelled at Doug.
Doug grabbed one baby and dodged a blast of energy. Sliding to Astra’s side, both were now in custody of screaming, naked infants that were heroes moments ago. Doug said, “how can we fight him?”
“Dunno. Just don’t get hit!” Astra shoved him aside, and both barely missed being frozen in time.
“OVER HERE!” Aflima rushed by, also holding a baby.
Astra asked, “who...”
“It’s Rosa, just move!” Aflima ran straight at Nova.
Doug zig-zagged slightly as he ran behind them. “Hope you gotta plan!”
“First, don’t get turned into an infant. Second, get them with the others!” Aflima was shoved right into Astra and both were hit by Doug when he crashed into them.
Crossroads jumped back, having pushed them out of the line of fire for a time blast. “Careful you three...uh....six...oh, crud, more babies!”
Astra was quick to stand and pulled Doug up with one arm. “Yes.”
“This is bad.” Crossroads said. “We can’t hit him, we can’t fight him, and before long, BADGE is going to be nothing but a daycare.”
Krystal Fae ran as best as she could in her condition and used her own power to deflect a time blast. “Get them behind the time line. NOW!” She swung her hands in the air and another blast was deflected.
“The...what?” Astra asked.
“Over there!” Aflima pointed at Nova.
Without further questions, all three, each carrying a baby still, ran hard. Soon, they got to Nova. He had his hands up and a strange energy came from them.
“Nova? What...WATCH OUT!” Doug flinched as a time blast came right at them. Just as it met Nova, a barrier of energy crackled and the blast was dissipated.
“What is this?” Astra asked.
Nova, straining to hold his stance, said, “those of us with time powers are creating a barrier to keep Father Time restrained. He can’t leave this place while we are holding him captive, but we can’t do this forever.”
Aflima set the infant down among a gathering of other crying babies. “Look at how many are here.”
“And there are more.” Crossroads said, pointing out to the new crop of infants.
“This is insanity. We fought Jinn, and it wasn’t this...impossible.” Doug said.
Nova made a strange grunting noise and then said, “we won’t be able to hold this line forever. If we drop it, he’ll get out of here in a fraction of a second.”
“I don’t know what to do. All the heroes with time powers are making up this line.” Crossroads said.
“What is she doing?” Astra pointed out at Chase, who was running head-long at the nearest incarnation of Father Time.
Nova grunted again. “I don’t know, but she must have a plan. All of you, go save babies before something happens to them.”
“On it.” Aflima tightened her gloves and lead the charge back out into the fray.
Chase dashed across the field, jumping over infants, side stepping frozen heroes, and dodging more than one time blast from her own grandfather.
“Crap, he’s onto me.” Chase muttered as she saw Father Time change his time-shifting moves and now had his eyes set on her. There was a toying smile on his face as though he was eager for her to try something.
She threw her blades, but he was quick to shift away from her throws. Her blades were magical and could re-materialize in her hands, but they took longer than she needed, considering how fast he was.
A blast hit her and she found herself frozen in time. Yet, it was as though she were inside a pocket of thick air with a light fog around her. The people outside were moving so fast, but then she could see the others frozen in time that were still stopped. Why could she tell the difference? She moved her hand, and it slid through this.
“Time must work different for me, or it’s because we are family.” She said, which echoed oddly around this pocket of space.
Pushing her way through this, she dropped out of the pocket and was back in normal time. There was a look of genuine shock and some fear in the eyes of her grandfather.
“Not this time, Grampa!” she yelled and made another dash for him, far more confident for her safety now.
“I have more than one trick, little girl.” Suddenly, two father times were in front of her. The other that had been battling on the other side of the arena showed up.
Half a dozen blasts of energy came after the second figure and he was forced to shift away.
Furious Squirrel yelled as he used two steampunk blasters to shoot. “WHATEVER YOU’RE TRYING TO DO, DO IT!”
Chase had her opening. She threw her blades and between her and Furious, the duo Father Times were kept off guard. Soon a dozen more remaining heroes went after the second Father Time and he was pushed back further and further.
Sliding across the field like a baseball player stealing second, Chase dodged one last blast and reached her target. Before he could shift away, she put her hand on his staff. He shifted, but took her with him. Both vanished and reappeared seven times before he realized he couldn’t shake her.
“Let go!” He tried yanking his staff from her hand.
She pulled back and punched him right in the face. “Not a chance.”
Father Time let go of his staff and fell down. His doppelgänger vanished instantly as he lost control of the supreme power of the clock.
Chase, holding his staff, said, “looks like you’re pretty weak without this.”
“Don’t underestimate me.” He vanished away. There came a great wave of energy across the barrier, still being produced by the time heroes around the perimeter. Father Time reappeared and rolled across the ground. When he came to a stop, he coughed hard and looked at Nova. “Fools, you can’t trap time!”
“Looks like they can.” Chase reached up to rip the clock free from his staff.
“NO! YOU CAN’T! IT’S TOO DANGEROUS.” Father Time cried.
Chase plucked the clock free, and she was instantly overwhelmed by a peculiar power. Everything around her froze in time. This differed from before. She wasn’t stuck, everything else was simply stopped. Holding the clock, she could feel time. She was certain she could move it like one might move leaves on the surface of a pond. It was an awesome, terrifying feeling.
Looking at the gathered babies off to the side, she waved her hand and they were all transformed back into adults. Then the bubbles of frozen time trapping heroes were dissolved away, freeing the heroes inside.
Holding the clock, she focused her mind on it and slowly severed it from the flow of time. Once again, it would be returned to just being a powerful relic.
Without even trying, her own powers activated, and she was exposed to raw time. She looked up and saw a handsome man standing on the other BADGE station, wearing what looked like an ancient Greek outfit. Nova said to him, “I now know the truth thanks to you, you have earned my trust.” Then she saw a man hovering over a burning city, dressed in an ominous gray super suit, his skin colorless, his eyes glowing, and the bodies of heroes littering the ground amongst the fire.
She was thrust out of that and back into normal time. Santa had the clock in his hands now. “Angela, are you okay?”
“I don’t know. I just had the strangest experience while holding that.”
“The clock is extremely powerful. You’re not accustomed to it. It can do odd things to the mind. You need rest and you’ll feel better.”
Chase held her head. “Rest would be nice. We can take my grandfather...where is he?”
Nova came up. “The moment we broke the barrier, he shifted away.”
Santa smiled. “He’s weak and injured after all this. I doubt we’ll see him for a long time...no pun intended.”
Chase saw the heroes around helping each other, most gathering clothing to return to the naked heroes that had been babies. Rutkowski and Peyton were arguing as they headed for the nearest shuttle. EB hopped around, giving heroes chocolate eggs.
Nova gestured toward the landing bay. “Let’s get back to the station and get the clock to a secure location.”
“Sounds like a fine plan.” Santa followed them out of the Arena.
With a good grip on the bar, Bill lifted it from the rack on the bench. His body beaded with sweat, his feet firmly planted, his back arched, he grunted and shoved the weights up. After ten repetitions, he replaced the bar.
Gerald came over and looked down at Bill’s reddened face. “Boy, that was some lifting. 1,200 pounds.”
Bill pulled himself up and dabbed his face with the towel. “Been getting stronger for some time. Real strong. Don’t know how far I’ll take it.”
Gerald gave Bill an inquisitive look and then waved at him. “Come with me.”
The aged Fight Club director snaked his way through all the men and women working out in the main part of the gym. They came to a door where Gerald had to swipe a card to unlock it. The moment they stepped into this room, a body slammed against a nearby wall.
“GOTCHA!” a woman bellowed.
People in colorful spandex applauded around the room as the man picked himself up off the floor. “Good shot, Stella. Wanna try that again?” The man brushed debris from the seat of his outfit.
Gerald interrupted this. “Wait a moment, I found another potential.”
All the people in the room took an interest in Bill. The fading red on his cheeks returned as he found all the eyes on him. “Hi.”
Stella came over to Gerald. “you sure?”
“He just bench pressed 1,200 pounds and wants to do more. Nuff said?”
“Sure.”
Bill asked, “are you guys superheroes?”
As the other heroes nodded, Stella answered, “yup. This is the reason these gyms are called Fight Clubs. We train and practice our enhanced skills back here and then test each other in combat.”
“Cool. Can I watch a match?” Bill asked.
“Nope. Not unless you pass. Only supers are allowed.”
“How can I tell if I’m a super?”
Gerald came back with a small controller in his hand. “That’s my job. Everyone, stand back, don’t interfere with the scanner.” The other heroes all took steps back, standing against the walls. Gerald pointed to the middle of the room. “You, go stand there.”
Bill waited where he had been directed. The room darkened and a blue light filled the area. Everyone had a strange light glowing from them except Gerald. Bill suddenly realized he too had that light glowing on his skin.
“What’s this?”
Stella answered, “that would be morphonic energy. You’re a super.”
Gerald turned the scanner off, and the room returned to normal. “Yup, but a weak one right now.”
“What do you mean I’m weak?” Bill took umbrage at that description.
Gerald put the scanner away. “Now, don’t get your tights in a twist. I mean that your morhponic energy is lower than standard. You can still train up and become a super if you wish, but take some time and train here. Then, you can decide. It ain’t an easy life, kid.”
“Oh, okay. Do you mind if I think it over?”
“Take your time. Just be careful with your training. Heroes train in here because this equipment and their partners can handle stronger people.”
“I’ll just go clean up my bench and think.” Bill left the room to get his towels and cell phone.
Leaving the special room he glimpsed a person heading out the front door with his phone. “Hey!”
Running into the street, two men in black uniforms met him. They pressed something into his neck and the world went blurry.
***
Dozens of men and women sat in rows around a circular amphitheater. Small lights illuminated each so they could see whatever paperwork was in front of them. A beam of light bathed the podium at the center of the room where Director Nova stood. All the others were sitting in the shadows it cast. Behind the podium was a massive screen displaying the image of soldiers being held captive.
Director Nova faced the gathered people. “These are the surviving members of the World Corps guards sent to bolster the BADGE station security. Every single World Corps guard turned on us and attacked, injuring and killing many BADGE agents in the process. They also kidnapped not only one of our closest advisors, but the person we were trying to protect.”
A woman with a small flag on her stand for the nation of Italy asked, “What are you saying, Director? We ordered this attack?”
The representative from Canada added, “that would be difficult to believe. The Word Corps is anything but a military.”
Nova waited quietly for them to stop interrupting his opportunity to answer. Finally, the room was silent. “I’m only informing you of the facts. I’m here to find answers. If one or two soldiers had acted on their own, then I would be inclined to believe they were spies for yet another organization. However, the entire security force acted as one. Each one checks out, they are members of the Word Corps security forces.”
This drew a considerable amount of murmuring from the people. Several yelled out questions or comments, but their mics had not been activated. Nova refrained from responding to any of them.
Suddenly, a sharp sound of heels against the floor approached. A wave of silence befell the room as each person realized who was approaching. A woman stepped out of the shadows near the base of the conical shaped amphitheater. She was short, skinny, and had a tightly pulled hairstyle. Her face was ridged and severe, her makeup only enhancing the severity. Her dark purple pencil skirt suit blended well with the shadows until she was nearly into the direct light.
“Nova, this story of yours is… hard to believe.”
Nova gave her a single raised eyebrow. “And just who are you and who do you represent?”
She stepped up to the same level as the director, her back to the room, her eyes glaring up at him. Yet, there was still that thin, self-confident smile on her lips. “I am Judge Alpha, leader of the Word Corps.”
“Why haven’t I heard of you?” Nova asked.
She laughed, “amusing, you truly think yourself so powerful, so above us mere mortals that you know everything. The World Corps is a representative organization, dedicated to democratic ideology to further peace on Earth. As the leader of this organization, it is my duty to stand back and let it operate until my voice is absolutely needed. And, my dear Nova, it is needed when someone comes with false claims about our actions.”
“False!? I spent days in the infirmary after nearly being killed by your guards. My station was nearly destroyed. I have two missing...no, strike that, I have seven missing people. What more evidence do you need?”
She was just as calm and collected as him. “What I need, Nova, are my soldiers back. I want to hear from them what happened. We all know BADGE enjoys its autonomy. That autonomy has left you with the idea that your word never requires scrutiny. You come here, accuse this body of authorizing an attack on your station, and then expect us to just accept that. My dear Nova, that is not how it works.”
“We will return your security team when we are done questioning them.” Nova stated.
“You will return them at once, or we will revoke BADGE’s autonomy and have the UN and other nations recall all their support.”
“You can’t do that.” Nova stated.
She came dangerously close to him. “Try me.”
“I still have missing people. A member of my chief staff has been taken and we cannot…”
“That is your problem. And I wish you the best of luck. However, you will return our soldiers and let us deal with them. If we find they were part of some scheme, we will do what we can to fix the situation.”
Nova spent a moment in silence, considering his actions. He finally said, “Fine. We will return them after…”
“If they are not planetside, in our custody, in twenty-four hours, then we will act accordingly. And, that means returning any of the bodies as well.”
Nova picked up his tablet, shutting off the image on the large screen. “It seems I have little choice.”
Nova walked across an artificial island in the middle of the ocean. It was massive, with a pyramid shaped building in the center. Small parks were on each side, with landing platforms stuck out over the water. The entire island sat on a metal base that had pillars going deep into the waters. Flags from almost every nation on Earth flew around the main building.
With a heavy sigh, Nova sat down on a bench near a glistening clear pond that had lilies planted around it. A single blue duck bobbed in the tiny waves.
Flicking open the comm device on his wrist, Nova said, “Shuttle five, you can return and pick me up.”
“Understood.”
The duck waded toward him. “This place sucks. The water smells like chlorine and the lilies are all plastic.”
Nova laughed, “this whole place is like that, fake.”
The duck flashed and became Quark, who stood knee deep in the pond. “So, how’d it go in there?”
“Bad. I don’t like this new organization. There is something about them that simply doesn’t feel right. But, I can’t put my finger on it.”
“What did they have to say about their men attacking the station?”
“Not much. They seemed genuinely surprised by what I had to say, but then didn’t want to believe me. That’s when their head judge showed up and she is a real piece of work.”
“Oh? Is she cute?”
Nova gave Quark a snarly glance. “Hardly. She is arrogant, pushy, and obviously doesn’t like BADGE. She accused me of lying about the whole situation.”
“What? How?”
“Just like a good politician, with dismissive words and double talk. She didn’t come right out and say we were lying or staged the event, but she might as well have. I doubt we’re going to get much help from them. And, now, we have to return their men.”
“Like hell! Those guys are in for some serious questioning.”
Nova said, “I’m angry too. But, if we don’t play their game for now, they could cause us trouble. The last thing we need is diplomatic troubles in the middle of this investigation.” Nova hit his fist against the bench, “if we only had something to go on! More information.”
“I know.” Quark sat next to him. “It’s been three months and no one can find any of the avatars or EB. Those mercenaries have all vanished, and Arx knows nothing of value. Trust me, I’ve probed that doofuses mind like a hundred times. What isn’t empty space is filled with popcorn. Whoever did this to him, kept their secrets well hidden.”
Nova nodded. “Arx was a guinea pig. They promised him glory. In exchange, he let them experiment on him. I’ve seen this kind of crap go down a dozen times. The moment they got the info they needed, their promises dry up and their guinea pig was abandoned.”
Quark said, “I just want to know how they can be powerful enough to keep someone like EB hostage. That little guy is seriously strong. He’s a Mythic.”
Nova stood when the shuttle appeared over the island. “They are able to hide from the dozens of heroes searching for them using powers of all kinds. This has given them the one thing that is the most dangerous for a villain to have...time. The longer they work on their plans, the more likely they are to succeed.”
Nova and Quark boarded the shuttle.
“Why did they make you send our shuttle away?”
Nova let out a snarky sigh, “only World Corps ships may land or dock on their private little island. I think they just wanted to make it harder for us since they don’t like us.”
“Well, I’m learning I don’t like them right back.” Quark clicked his belt.
Nova sat down and waved at the robot, “get us back to the station.”
“Understood.”
Quark asked, “where are Chase and Gar?”
“They should be back from Neo Utopia now that the situation there is cleaned up. They’ll meet us at the station.”
Quark said, “we will make new plans and figure this out.”
“We have to. This dark organization has remained ahead of us for too long. I want them brought down, I want… our people back.” He seemed to be covering his real thoughts.
Quark smiled at him. “Admit it, you miss EB.”
“I don’t like leaving anyone behind.”
“EB is your longest, closest friend.”
Nova huffed, “he is an annoying, energetic, annoying…”
“You said that twice.”
“I meant to. EB is one of the oldest friends I have ever had. He bothers the hell out of me most days, but I appreciate him. I honestly never thought he could be caught by a human or hero. He is fast and powerful. It scares me that this group of people have the technology to capture him and hold him hostage. And, I’ll admit that I owe him many times over for saving me, BADGE, our heroes, the world, and so much more. He must be so scared right now.”
Quark said, “careful, Nova, that almost sounded sincere.”
“It was. I will deny it the moment I see that bunny, but he is my friend and I know he actually cares about me. Which isn’t the easiest thing to do. I won’t let him be hurt by these people.”
“With any luck, he is talking their ear off so badly that they will throw him out just to get him to shut up.”
***
A teenager ran across an open field near Enid, Oklahoma. He skidded to a stop and then bent his knees and jumped five miles in one bound. His hands were aglow with light and his long, dark hair flew
around in the wind. He landed in a cloud of dust next to a small row of homes surrounded by open plains.
“HEY, GUYS! CHECK IT OUT!” He was waving a paper wildly.
Several people came out of the homes, all covered in oil stains.
“What’s all the yell’n, Dakota?” An older guy asked. "What're you wearing? Is that a swimsuit?"
Dakota showed off his skin-tight outfit. "This is my supersuit."
"Super?"
Dakota shoved the paper toward the man. “I got this today. It’s official!”
The man took the paper and read it aloud to the others. “Dear Dakota Brown, BADGE has reviewed your recent morphonic energy scans and has cleared you for a two semester education on the BADGE space station. Please, report to the local Fight Club in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to register with a BADGE official for transportation. Signed, BADGE Corps Recruit Center.”
A different man asked, “what’s this bout? I thought they required heroes to be educated up there or something like that? This sounds like you applied.”
Dakota snatched his coveted letter and smiled at it. “Only the real powerful ones are required to be assessed in the BADGE training program. People like me, with low levels of the Morphonic Power, must apply. Some don’t make it, but I did. In a year I’ll be in a League, might even be competing in League Wars!”
A younger man pushed his way to the front. “Oooh, can ya get me that Chase’s autograph?”
A different man said, “to hell with her autograph. Can ya get me her number?”
A woman in overalls shoved a man aside and said, “ferget that Chase chick. I wanna meet that Gargoyle feller. I’d like to polish his boulders if ya know what I mean?” Everyone gave off a round of lewd laughter.
Dakota remained serious. “I will be call’n it quits, boss. No more oilfields for me. I’m heading into town to buy some new clothes and get my stuff in order to leave.”
The boss took Dakota around the shoulders. “How bout we buy you a round to celebrate. Yer gonna make one hell of a hero, kid.”
Dakota left his crew of oilfield workers and made yet another giant leap toward town. He landed in an open parking lot. He folded the letter up, tucked it away in his overalls, and strutted into town, feeling about twenty feet tall.
“Dakota Brown?” A man in a dark suit asked.
“Who’s ask’n?”
The man smiled, “I’m with BADGE.”
“Oh, really. I was expect’n ta head over to the Fight Club and register.”
“No need. Come with me.” The man escorted him around a building and toward a car in the back.
Sliding into a seat he frowned at the men dressed in dark combat uniforms. “What’s going on?”
Before he could get an answer, they pressed something into his neck, and he passed out.
Nova and Quark stepped out into the Operations center. Chase and Gar stood down front, observing the large map.
“Anything to report?” Nova asked, which was his way of greeting them.
Gar turned and rolled his shoulders, “I’m getting movement back in my body.”
“Good.”
Chase walked over to Nova. “I see you aren’t in a cast any longer. All healed up?”
“Almost. My ribs are still sore, but nothing too concerning.”
She turned her attention to Quark. “any luck?”
“No. I couldn’t find one trace of EB or those people.”
Gar asked, “did you check Canada again?”
Quark and Nova walked with Chase down to the front of the room. All gazed up at the map of the world. Quark answered the question. “I’ve searched Canada seven times. I scoured the site where Arx destroyed that underground laboratory. We checked all over the entire country, out into the waters. Nothing. Those people are good at hiding their secrets.”
“Then we are back at square one.” Chase said.
“Not exactly,” Nova firmly stated. “We know where they aren’t, which is a start. Now, we just need to find more evidence of where they are?”
Chase materialized one of her blades. “Let me have a stab at Arx again. I can crack that Hollywood egomaniac.”
Nova shook his head. “We have all the information we’re going to get out of him.”
“I’d still like to draw a little blood from him. Scar that pretty face of his.”
Gar said, “revenge isn’t the answer to our problem.”
Chase tossed her blade aside, “but it’d make me feel better.”
Nova said, “we need to change our focus. We have been simply looking for them, for a way to follow them. They’re too clever at hiding their trail, at covering their tracks. What we need is to look at this with a unique plan.”
“And what plan do you have in mind?” Quark asked.
Nova turned his attention to Chase. “We need help from someone who knows hiding places better than anyone in this world. Someone with a connection to EB that might give us the boost we desperately need right now.”
Gar frowned, “who? Chase?”
Chase answered, “he’s talking about my father.”
“Santa?” Quark gasped. “But, he said he wanted to get away from the superhero business.”
Nova said, “I know. Santa made that clear to all of us, and we will respect that wish as best we can. But this is a unique situation. I think Santa will be convinced to help if it is to save EB. But…”
“You want me to ask him.” Chase said.
“Yes. He’s a friend of mine, but each time I go to see him, it is to ask for his help. It might be nicer coming from you.”
Chase took Nova by the shoulder. “You don’t have to convince me. I don’t get many opportunities to see my father.”
“Can I come?” Gar asked, almost sounding like a little brother begging to be brought along.
Nova nodded, “yes.”
“Director Nova: Incoming transmission from Hero: Ace.” A robot announced.
“Put her through.”
All four turned their attention to an in-set screen on the monitor. A hero stood in the street near a Fight Club. “Director Nova, my League has been patrolling the streets around Paris and the local Fight Club called in a missing person report.”
“This is a matter for the police, not BADGE.” Nova answered.
Ace said, “I thought the same thing. However, the man in question had scheduled a test for morphonic powers, as he had already set the initial sensors off. He never showed up. When the police checked out his flat, he’s gone. He hasn’t shown up for work, church, anything. The camera outside the Fight Club shows him arriving, but then he turns and walks down the alley, and that’s the last he’s seen anywhere.”
Nova stroked his beard. “I don’t like this. An untrained super could get himself hurt, or hurt others.”
“What should we do about this?” Ace asked.
“Work with the police for now. Let them be in charge, but make sure to be part of the investigation. Also, make sure the Fight Club is under constant observation, just in case.”
“Will do, Ace out.” The com ended, shutting the small screen off.
Quark asked, “something wrong?”
Nova shook his head, “It’s nothing...I think.”
Chase asked, “you think? What is it?”
“I hope it is just a coincidence. But our enemy has a penchant for kidnapping their victims. This is probably unrelated, but it bothers me.”
“Should we investigate?” Chase asked.
“No. You head to the North Pole with Gar. Quark will continue the general search. I’ll monitor things up here.”
Chase and Gar hurried out of Operations for the shuttle bay. Quark merely flashed and was gone. Nova spent a long moment looking at the screen. One might see the glint of light on the corner of his eye as he stood there in silence, wishing an annoying little bunny was talking his ear off right now.
***
“HEY, I WANT TO TALK TO SOMEONE! YOU GUYS ARE GONNA REALLY BE SORRY WHEN I GET AHOLD OF PETA OR THE ASPCA! THEY DON’T LIKE ANIMAL ABUSE! EVEN TALKING ANIMALS MATTER. I mean, they don’t know I can talk. I tried calling them to tell them what I think of their efforts to save bunnies from having their feet chopped off for some silly superstition, and they hung up on me. Me, The Easter Bunny. But, what can ya do? They aren’t all rude. If they really KNEW I was the Easter Bunny, they might not have been so huffy. There was this one guy who talked to me about what they were doing to help fight the fur industry. He was nice and all, but kinda dumb when you really listened to him. He went on and on about how much he liked his pet tree, like you can have a pet tree. It wasn’t even a bonsai. Now there are interesting trees, humans really…”
“WOULD YOU SHUT THE HELL UP!” Dr. Osteen walked into the lab, carrying a small device in his hands. He now sported a large metal plate across half his face, and his right leg was artificial, all thanks to the explosive exit by Arx, which destroyed his former lab.
EB, locked in a special cage, banged on the side with his tiny fists. “I ain’t shutting up until you let me leave. I want out of this stupid closet. I have been in dirt holes with more room than this place. What do you do, store your toilet paper in this room? Hello! You can have that stuff delivered nowadays. You don’t need a room like this. Hey, did you know they will deliver toilet paper right to the bathroom if you order from...WOAH!” The irate doctor yanked his small cage up. “Where are you taking me? Letting me go, I hope!”
Dr. Osteen used a gravity beam to hold the unique cage aloft as he marched down a long corridor. “Oh, I’ll let you leave...THIS PLANET!”
EB rolled around the cage as he was unceremoniously carried into a large room. This place had tech in it that looked to be from a far future. Computers, special equipment, screens floating in the air, and glassed in smaller rooms where cords hung from the ceiling. In the back of the room were six containment units, each holding one of the Morphon avatars in specialized stasis, depending on their unique powers. EB was slammed down on a pedestal in the middle of the room.
“Hey, I like the idea of leaving and all, but I get space-sick. No off-earth travel, thanks. Just open a door and I’ll be on my way.”
Dr. Osteen pressed a button that activated a menacing laser carried by an arm attached to the high ceiling. “Oh, don’t worry about space travel. This anti-magic beam will turn you into ashes. At least that’s the theory. So, you will be a test subject. Goodbye, you chattering, annoying…”
“Now, now. That isn’t how we treat such honored guests.” Commander Delta came in and causally yanked the control out of Osteens’ hand.
“I want to test it on this subject.”
“No. We will not vaporize the Easter Bunny. He’s too valuable.”
EB said, “At least someone gets it. I’m a big time celebrity and…”
Delta leaned over and glared at EB. “You’re only alive because you’re connected to BADGE and we need your information.”
EB folded his tiny arms. “Well, you aint gett’n it from me. No, sir. Nuh uh.”
“We’ll see.” Delta snapped back around to Osteen. “Put him with the others and restrain him so he can’t talk.”
Osteen grumbled while he took the cage and placed it next to The Avatar of Strength.
“Osteen, we have the last of our subjects to begin phase 3 of the project. Get to work.”
Chase checked her sensors again, wiping snow off the screen. Behind her, Gar lay in the snow.
“What are you doing?”
Gar got up and brushed the snow off his stone body. “Making a snow angel.”
She looked and saw he had merely made an imprint of his own body, with wings outstretched in the snow. “You have an advantage, real wings. Though, normally angel wings aren’t bat-like.”
“Dragon.”
She laughed, “sorry, dragon-like.”
“Better.”
She slapped the side of the sensor and then shivered as a new breeze cut by. “This dumb blizzard is making it hard to find the old entrance.” A shadow came over her and two large wings wrapped around her body. Then two arms held around her waist.
“Better?”
She couldn’t contain the coy smile. “If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were trying to flirt.”
“I am trying to make you warmer. We’re just friends.”
A kind, older voice said, “And I shall never have a grandchild while all the men in my daughter’s life remain ‘just friends.”
Gar opened his wings and turned. Chase ran around him and right into Santa’s arms. “Daddy!”
He stood there, his famous sleigh behind him. “Chase, dear. What brings you up here?”
“Nova sent me.”
“Ah, so work related. Oh, well. Guess I’ll take any kind of visit from my only daughter. Hop in.”
Chase jumped in with Santa and the sleigh took flight. Gar flew behind it, using the strong winds to keep up.
***
EB sat on the floor of his cage, situated along a wall with the other prisoners. From here, he had an excellent view of the entire lab, including the containment units near him that were currently unoccupied.
“This place totally sucks.” He muttered and then looked over at the lion man hooked up to tubes and cords in his own cage. “Wow, you’re, like, really ripped. You awake? Oh, right, one of those avatar dudes. The magic guy was nice, really informative and stuff. I liked him. He told good stories. Bet you’re the avatar of strength, or is it physical? I don’t remember the terms well. I just remember that you don’t have a name, just ‘avatar of…’. You should be called Leo, that’s cool. Man, I wish these people would just let me outta here. I want to go home. I bet Nova is worried sick about me. Oh, he pretends he doesn’t like me, but I know better. That guy doesn’t have lots of friends, but I am one of them. Known him the longest. We even fought together in…”
“You really do like the sound of your own voice.” Delta came into the room with several laboratory assistants wheeling in tables with naked men strapped to them.
EB looked away. “I ain’t talkin’ to you.”
“I don’t care. Just stop talking.”
“Sourpuss.” EB threw his paw out and an egg appeared, but it didn’t go beyond the cage and merely bounced back. It splattered all over him with a sticky goo he had intended to hit Delta with.
Delta chortled at him. “Nice try. Magic resistant cages, thanks to the information we got from the avatar of magic. Now, stop fighting, stop talking, and you might survive long enough to see us take down BADGE.”
“Like hell. Nova is gonna mess you up. He’s dealt with WAAAY worse than some arrogant scientists and their well-dressed smartasses.”
Delta ignored EB while several assistants wheeled in tables with men on them. Dr. Osteen came in with a small device that he typed on. He casually waved at the holding bays, “put them in there.”
The assistants propped the men up in the glassed rooms, standing them as though they were awake. Their bodies already had round patches glued to their skin at specific locations.
“Are they worthy?” Delta asked.
Osteen showed him his tablet. “The data came back. They are all conduits. They can use the morphonic energy as powers.”
“Good. Begin the process. Alpha will pay us a visit soon, and I want progress to show her.”
Dr. Osteen walked into the bay of the first man and hooked various cords to the patches on his body. Each cord had a different color of energy flowing through it that fed into the body. Once he was done with one, he went to the next and then the next.
Delta watched him work on the last man. “How are they standing without being awake?”
Osteen finished and left the small room, sealing the glass door. “That’s part of the initial preparations. We have almost complete control over their bodies. If at any point they aren’t doing what we order them, we can control them like puppets.”
Delta said, “but we’re wiping their minds. They’re merely drones doing our bidding.”
Osteen walked away with Delta behind him. “The human brain is a complex computer that we still don’t fully understand. If one regains his free will and turns on us, we could have another Arx.”
EB watched this horror show as the scientist left the room, turning out most of the lights. From his place on a ledge, he was right next to one bay where a man stood, attached to multiple tubes.
“HEY! DON’T LEAVE THEM IN HERE LIKE THIS! I DON’T WANT TO SPEND MY TIME STARING AT SOME NAKED MANS JUNK! HEY! ARE YOU LISTENING TO ME!?” He punched the cage with his tiny paws. After throwing that fruitless tantrum, he looked up at the poor soul being experimented on. The color on his skin was draining, leaving him gray. “What are they up to?”
***
Chase stepped into a memory once forgotten. This room was the picture of a Victorian Christmas card. Plump armchairs near a crackling fire in a stone hearth. Stockings hung from the mantle, holly strung across the walls, and a tree hung with glass and wooden ornaments in the corner. A toy train ran circles around the base of the tree, giving off the rumbling, clacking sound as it moved.
Taking gentle steps in this pristine room, Chase slowly approached a short table with books and toys on it. Sinking to her knees, she picked up a book and brushed the dust off the cover.
Santa came up behind her. “I could never bring myself to move that. It has sat there for a long time...well, since you left.”
Chase smiled at the hand-painted cover. “Winter Poems. I loved listening to you and Uncle Krampus read them to me by the fire.”
“It was a different time, a peaceful time.” Santa sat down in one of the two rocking chairs.
Chase wiped her eyes. “Some days, I wish I had never remembered my past. I get so sad when I think of Uncle Krampus and what he was to me back then. That he died to save me… I can’t keep from feeling terrible.”
“I think it is good you are sad for him.”
Chase tenderly put the book back. “Why? Sadness is pain.”
“No, it is truth. You remember him for who he truly was. You brought out the man under all that hate and anger. He grew so bitter during his time here on this world, then you came along and I saw a new light in his heart. He fought it, but could not defeat the truth. In the end, it was that truth, the real brother I once knew and loved, that returned to save you. I would never want you remembering him as someone you hated or feared. I certainly don’t.”
“It was a happy childhood.” Chase quietly said.
Just then Gar came in playing with a paddle-ball, or at least doing his best to make it work. “You got some neat stuff here.”
Chase put her hand on her face. “We don’t have time to play with toys or reminisce.”
Santa said, “yes. I believe you were sent by our friend, Nova. What is the purpose of your visit, if I even need to ask.”
Chase said, “we need your help to find EB.”
“I thought as much.”
Chase stood up and took the paddle-ball from Gar before he tried one more time. “Father, I know you want to distance yourself from BADGE, but we need your help.”
“I know. And I don’t want to fight any more wars or battle any more supervillains, but Easter Bunny is an old friend and I cannot allow him to stay captured. You can join my effort to find him.”
Gar said, “but, we came to ask you to help us find him?”
Santa chuckled, “oh, you think I don’t know what is going on? I knew of his capture almost as soon as it happened. I have already put a lot of effort into finding him. And I do have an idea of how to locate him. We’re going to need Nova’s help.”
EB sat with his arms, and legs tucked up against himself and his chin resting on them. His eyes were cast down as he rocked a little.
“Wonder what Nova’s do’n right now? Probably worried sick about me. This place sucks.” He gazed up at the glassed in room where a different man was being augmented using their strange technology. “At least it doesn’t look like it hurts them too much. How many are they going to do? Why are they all naked? Why are they all guys? I mean, this place stinks and I hate what’s happening to these people, but one girl would be a nice change of pace. Something fun to look at. What am I saying? I don’t want to see anyone in those cells. I doubt they are doing anything nice to them. Bet they kidnapped them. These sickos love kidnapping people…”
“Do you ever stop talking?” Dr. Osteen walked up to the cell and checked the data on the monitor.
EB snarled at him. “Gotta have a decent conversation with someone intelligent around here.”
“Pfft.” Osteen responded and made several notes on his tablet.
EB asked, “so...what’s up with the naked guys and those tube thingy’s you got stuck in them?”
“Just working on the project.”
EB stood up and smiled, realizing he was getting some info. “Really? What’s the project? Why are they all colorless when you’re done?”
Osteen opened the door to this person’s cell, adjusted a tube, and then left, resealing the room. “We’re pumping them with a special morphonic energy that I devised using the data gathered from the avatars. Each person has a proclivity toward a morphon type, so we are augmenting them. Really, these are still just test subjects for the big project. I can’t wait to see that one in action.”
“Wow, so cool. What’s that project going to be?”
“We are going to...wait, why am I spilling this to you?” Osteen stepped back.
EB grinned, “Oh, what harm is it to tell little ole me? Who am I gonna tell, the sleeping kitty next to me?”
Osteen rolled his eyes. “Nice try, bunny. I told you too much. Now, shut up.” He walked on.
EB plopped back down, “fine. Try to have a decent conversation round here? Sheesh. Man, I’m hungry.”
Osteen checked a different cell. “Feed yourself. You can do it, I’ve seen you.”
EB materialized one of his famous eggs. “Sure, chocolate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Even I’m sick of that. Bring me a carrots, or a steak, something. What’s this place, a torture chamber?”
“Shut up.”
“STOP TELLING ME TO SHUT UP! I AM TIRED OF BEING IN HERE. I AM A FREAKING LEGENDARY, MYTHICAL FIGURE! I WILL NOT BE TREATED LIKE THIS.”
Osteen stomped over to him. “You’re nothing but a big mouthed rabbit.”
“I’M THE EASTER BUNNY! I WAS HIDING EGGS BEFORE YOUR GREAT, GREAT, GREAT, GREAT GRANDFATHER WAS BORN. PROBABLY ON A PIG FARM BY THE LOOKS OF HIS DESCENDANTS!”
“OH, YOU LITTLE PIECE OF…”
“Now, now, Dr. Osteen, stop arguing with the vermin.” Delta walked into the lab with a woman at his side.
Osteen slapped EB’s cage for good measure and then greeted his guests. “Delta, who is this?”
The older, craggy woman in a red pantsuit answered. “I’m Alpha, I’m here to check on the progress.”
Dr. Osteen smiled, “glad you’re here. Things are going great. The army is almost completed, and the first augments are ready for deployment.”
“Show me everything.” Alpha demanded.
EB perked his ears up and listened to everything that was said. What that idiot didn’t spill to him already he was gleaning from this conversation. His sneaky little smile quickly turned to horror as he learned the depth of their evil plans.
***
Santa set his sleigh down in a grassy pasture in the middle of New York State. A pair of guards stood outside what appeared to be an abandoned old shed.
Gar landed, having followed behind on his own wings. “What are we doing back here? I thought you wanted to see Director Nova.”
Santa disembarked his sleigh and then helped Chase down. “We are going to find what we need here.”
They approached the guards. One look at the trio, the guards stepped aside and opened the door to the shed. Inside was the lift that led down to the original HQ of BADGE before the construction of the space station.
After a long trip down, they stepped out into the hallways of the old base. Lights flickered on at their presence.
“Is anyone still working here?” Gar asked.
Chase nodded. “Yes, we have a small team of specialists to monitor the vaults.”
Santa looked up and down the corridor and then headed toward the old command center. “This is where BADGE still maintains their artifact vaults. This is possibly the most secure vault on Earth.”
Chase smiled, “yeah, back in the day I dreamed of getting in here. Tried to on a few occasions.”
Gar said, “I know. I caught you, twice.”
“Once.” Chase corrected him. “I broke in once and you caught me when I missed that last sensor and set off the alarm. The second time, I wasn’t trying to break in, but you still grabbed me and detained me. That was when my father sent me to help Nova with the whole Cupid situation.”
Gar said, “lucky he did. You joined us after that.”
Santa said, “luck had nothing to do with it. I wanted my little girl to stop being a thief and do something useful with her life. She had skills that could help people and BADGE would put them to proper use.”
Chase said, “you were always looking after me, even when I didn’t know you were my father.”
“Of course. A parent never forgets their child. Ah, here we are.” He tapped the button on the door and it opened.
All three walked into the old command center of the underground base. A hologram greeted them in the middle of the room. It appeared to be Justin, but it was just an AI designed to operate the base.
“Greetings, Santa Claus, Agent Chase, Agent Gargoyle. How may I be of service?”
Chase said, “we need access to Nova’s secret Vault.”
“I am sorry, Agent Chase, but access to that vault is prohibited to any other person except Director Nova.”
Santa said, “we know. Please, contact the Director at once.”
The hologram flickered off and the screen on the view screen activated, with Nova looking at them from the Space Station. “I see Santa has joined the search. Good.”
Santa said, “Actually, they are joining my search. But we share the same goal. However, we need access to your personal vault to continue the search.”
“My vault? Why?”
Both Chase and Gar were just as curious. Santa hadn’t divulged this yet to them. Santa said, “I know EB has given you one of his special favors. You’ve never used it. Unless I’m mistaken, and I rarely am, it should be in your vault.”
Nova nodded, “you’re correct on all accounts. However, how will this help?”
“Trust me. I understand our magic better than anyone else. It’ll do the trick.”
Nova said, “Nova to BASE One, Clearance Gamma Seven Seven Pi. Access is granted to Santa, Chase, and Gar to my private vault.”
The hologram returned. “understood.” He walked through the table as though it weren’t there and the door opened as he approached it. “Follow me.”
The hologram led all three deep into the base to a room that seemed to be a dead end. The back wall beeped as a hidden panel flashed when the hologram inputted a code. Panels lifted and parted, revealing a multilayered door. Each door required a new code and was timed so that if the code was not entered fast enough, the vault would re-seal itself back to the first door.
“Wow, even I wouldn’t have been able to get into that.” Chase said.
Once it was finished opening, the hologram turned and said, “you have full access for one hour only.” then flickered off.
Santa was the first to step in. The vault was considerably smaller than the other containment vaults at BADGE. Shelves were lined with items of all natures. Swords and spears, glowing golden armor, bottles of shimmer liquid.
“What is all this?” Gar asked.
Santa paused as he looked at a helmet from the Mesopotamian culture. “Relics of a warrior’s life. Each contains some level of power or magic, which is why they are sealed away here and not merely placed in a museum. I could linger in here for years, telling you the amazing stories of the few items that I know about. But, we don’t have time.”
Gar asked, “what are we looking for?”
Chase answered, “This.” She stood before a pedestal with a glass dome on the top. Inside was a glowing crystal egg.
Santa said, “precisely.”
“What is that?” Gar asked.
Chase said, “EB gave one to me around the first time we met. It’s a magic egg. When broken, EB will come to your aid.”
Santa gently removed the dome. “He doesn’t give these often. Only when he believes the holder is worthy. EB might be silly and playful, but he is wiser than anyone gives him credit.”
“How will this help?”
Santa took the egg in his hand. “This is a unique magic, something EB created before we even came to this world. It’s a tiny piece of his magic. That is how he knows exactly where it is when it’s broken. However, that connects it to him in a special way. Once broken, a link will be made from this location to him. If we are lucky, it will bring him directly to us, as that is how the spell works. However, even if that fails, it will create a connection from this point to him. Giving us something to follow. In either case, it will be our way of finding him.”
“What are you waiting for? Bust it.” Chase said.
“Let me.” Gar took the egg in his hand and then crushed it. A flash of magical light burst out and bathed the room for a moment.
***
In the middle of the high-tech city of Neo Utopia, two heroes wandered down a bustling street.
“What the hell are we doing here?” Skelanimal moaned.
Midgardsomr walked with him, both the size of a regular person right now. “We’re on patrol! That’s what we’re supposed to be doing.”
“I’m bored!” Skelanimal whined.
“I know. I am Midgardsomr. I shouldn’t be saving felines from trees and stopping simple heists. But, we’re still on probation with BADGE.”
“Probation...bleh!” Skelanimal stuck his tongue out. “Just because I tried to take over a small Asian country and kinda messed up a whole city doesn’t mean I need to do this crap. And why are you out here? You’re big and stompy, but you didn’t do anything wrong...that I know of.”
Midgard gained a devilish smile. “Oh, I have made enough trouble. Also, I was told to escort you on this. Nova’s orders.”
“I hate this whole thing, and Nova can just stick it!”
“We’ve only got two hours left today. Stop griping.”
Both their earpieces buzzed and Hotwings came through. “Hey, guys. We got a ping on the sensor for Neo Utopia. Looks like there could be some action.”
Skelanimal said, “what, a little girl lost her balloon?”
“Shut it! This looks like something big. Something is heading your direction.”
Midgard smiled, “good. Some action.”
“Don’t destroy the city.” Hotwings said. “If you need help, signal.”
“We can handle anything.” Midgard stated.
The signal cut and both turned yet another corner, now walking down the central square of the city. People stopped and stared at them more than once. No one dared approach the fearsome duo.
“Why are there so many news vans and that helicopter?” Skelanimal noted.
“Don’t know, don’t care.”
All at once, two people came flying toward them. Each wore gray suits with capes. While their bodies were devoid of color, their eyes beamed with bright color, each eye different.
“Who the hell are they?” Skelanimal asked.
Before Midgard could answer, these strange men attacked them with beams of energy. In a flash, Midgard grew ten times his size and went after one enemy while Skelanimal launched himself at the other.
***
EB stood at the edge of his cage, squinting to watch the monitors. The media was alive with reports from Neo Utopia where Skelanimal and Midgard were both battling villains. Only EB knew these men were not villains, but augmented heroes brainwashed in this lab.
EB shook, and his body flashed. “What?” The energy barrier around his cage made a buzzing sound and rippled. His body continued to flash and partially fade. “One of my eggs! I’m transporting! Oh, happy day!”
Delta turned around. “What’s all the commotion?”
The alarms went off, and the computer announced. “Disturbance in magical containment unit E1.”
EB gave off a quick little rude salute and said, “bye suckers!” And he flashed away. He reappeared five feet outside the cage, in the middle of the lab. “Uh...that didn’t work right. Your stupid barrier messed up my spell!”
“HE’S FREE! GET HIM!” Alpha screeched.
“Not this time!” EB zoomed around the room, dodging hands and weapons as both Delta and Osteen went after him, along with five mercenaries that rushed in at the sound of the alarm.
“GET THE ANTI-MAGIC WEAPONS!” Delta ordered.
EB threw an enormous egg at Osteen, which exploded with a stinking green fog. “So long, fatso!” he hit the door and bounced off an invisible barrier. “Ow, stupid anti-magic stuff.” Just before a pair of hands nabbed him, he zipped away, leaving an exploding egg in his wake.
Over and over, he threw eggs and dodged the people. No one was fast enough to catch the Easter Bunny.
“Oh, just let me leave. You guys are embarrassing yourselves.” He slid under the legs of one man and threw an egg at another, covering him in a thick goo that stuck his hands to his sides.
“STOP THAT RODENT!” Delta screamed.
EB stopped on top of the computer console. “Know what Nova HATES about me? Huh, huh? I break things.” He ran across the computers and left a dozen exploding eggs. Stations erupted in sparks and fire as he blasted an entire wall of tech. “This is fun!”
A blinding flash of light hit EB and he went flying into a wall. One of those colorless, augmented men stood there, his eyes glowing from where he had blasted EB.
Osteen sneered, “Looks like you just proved my heroes are as fast as any super out there.”
“End that vermin!” Alpha ordered. “Come, we have to get moving.” She led Delta out of the room.
The augmented hero grabbed EB up. The drooling bunny mumbled, with his tongue hanging out of his mouth. “I can’t feel mah face…or anything.”
Osteen smiled and said, “Strap that rodent to the table. I’m gonna slice the Easter Bunny in half.”
Nova simmered in fury as he watched the screens. Every news outlet across the world was showing the battle in Neo Utopia. Partially destroyed buildings smoked while overturned cars blazed on fire. Large sections of the Central Square of the city were smoking holes.
A newscaster spoke in front of a camera. “We are still unclear about the identities of the responsible parties. BADGE has, thus far, refused to comment on the situation.”
“Mute this!” Nova ordered, and the screen in front of him went silent. “Get me Hotwings, NOW!”
In a matter of seconds the monitor changed to show Hotwings with both a normal sized Midgardsomr and Skelanimal. “Sir, the situation is under control here.”
“Could’ve fooled me.”
Skelanimal said, “it was a strange fight. They came in like they had some kinda grudge against me and Midgard. The way overused their powers, blew a lotta crap up, and fought like they ain’t ever fought a hero before. It was kinda fun, but...oof!” Hotwings elbowed him.
Midgard added, “they went down quickly. The fight was bad, but quick. Too quick if you ask me.”
Nova nodded in agreement. "It was over so quickly, I hadn't even had time to call for back-up."
"We didn't need backup." Midgard stated. "Two puny supers attacking us was hardly anything to worry about. Although, they seemed bent on causing a lot of damage in the fight."
Nova spent a moment considering this and then said, “yes, something about this doesn’t seem right. Bring those villains back for…”
Hotwings interrupted him. “Sorry, we can’t. They’ve already been apprehended.”
“By who? We’re the only organization capable of containing super humans.”
Skelanimal answered, “some dudes from something called the MHA…”
“Meta Human Activities.” Nova growled out. “A branch of the World Corps. This is definitely deeper than a simple attack. Get back to your HQ. A BADGE shuttle should already be waiting nearby.”
“Alert: Announcement involving BADGE!” A robot blurted out.
Hotwings looked at his wrist monitor. “I just got something too.”
“Put it on the screen.” Nova commanded.
Judge Alpha stood before the gathered members of the World Corps Representatives. Cameras flashed as she opened a folder on her podium. “Ladies and gentlemen. I am Judge Alpha with the World Corps. You may not know much about us at this time, but we are an organized, democratic body established to help secure our world against threats. In the recent years, those threats have gone from normal to supernatural.”
On the screen, images of destroyed cities appeared as she spoke.
“Rome Italy, Bursa Turkey, Paris France, Lawton Oklahoma, Naha City Japan, Fort Knox Kentucky, Tokyo Japan, North Onnotangu, Hallows Port North Carolina, Poseidon Island Florida, and recently Hollywood California. All severely damaged or destroyed by these threats. At the center of each threat is an organization that you believe to be protecting this world, BADGE. While BADGE claims to be protecting us, it seems that they do the exact opposite. Lives are lost, property is damaged, history is irrevocably destroyed. They placate the world with their competitions called League Wars, using an age-old tactic of feeding the masses entertainment while secretly enacting dangerous actions. And, just now, in Neo Utopia, the prime example of who BADGE truly is.”
On the screen was displayed the battle involving Midgard and Skelanimal against the two strange men.
“Neo Utopia, a city of hope and dreams, a city built on advancing peace and knowledge. Crassly attacked by two KNOWN super villains. Skelanimal tried to overthrow an entire country and did considerable damage. Midgardsomr has, on many occasions, shown complete disregard for human life, even attacking Tokyo with the help of other known agents of BADGE. This isn’t an organization of heroes, it is an organization of thugs, villains, and murderers. One can only imagine what their ultimate goal is. They have pretended to be the protectors of this world, but once we depend on them solely for our protection, what then? It is the logical opinion of this body that BADGE is attempting to take over this world. We are ordering their fight clubs closed, their leagues disbanded, and their members called in for questioning. We must end this threat before it is too late.”
The room erupted in applause at first. Nova could hear the seething sounds of Midgard on the other comm as his breath cut between bared teeth. Skelanimal smashed his monitor on the ground and then had to watch it over Hotwings’s shoulder.
Nova was about to mute this when he heard the reporters present call out questions. They asked about the threat level, about the danger, about how to truly stop super humans. Then came a voice he knew well.
“Judge Alpha! Chaz Hamilton, News Sentinel. I find your logic hard to accept. I have been present in many situations where BADGE heroes have been active. They didn’t cause the damage, they stopped who was causing it. Also, many heroes have given their lives to ensure the protection of this world. All I have said is well documented with irrefutable evidence. What proof do you have of your allegations?”
The reporters all fell silent to that question. Alpha calmly looked at him. “We will be glad to review your alleged evidence. However, we must also take into account the mountain of evidence we have, which is just as irrefutable.”
“Would you be willing to produce that evidence for the media?” Chaz asked.
Alpha shook her head and then turned away from him. “I’m afraid this news conference is over. We have a lot of work to deal with. Thank you for coming.” She brushed off the several dozen more questions thrown her direction, many of which were similar to Chaz’s.
Nova turned back to the other two. “This is a new turn of events, but not entirely unexpected. That you were attacked only proves to me that this World Corps is behind all of this. To what degree, I don’t know. But I know there is a great deal more to this than meets the eye. Midgard, Skelanimal, go back to your HQ now and stay there.”
“Aw! So we get grounded!” Skelanimal moaned.
Nova rolled his one good eye. “No. I want you out of the sight of the media right now. I don’t believe you were behind this. You are not to blame...this time. I believe this was a set-up. But, we have to get a handle on this situation. Hotwings, keep your team on high alert and be ready for anything.”
“Understood.”
Nova pressed a button on his wrist comm, “Santa, I want good news right about now.”
***
EB squinted in the bright light shining in his eyes. His four paws were currently strapped down to a table in the middle of the laboratory. A laser lowered and aimed right at his head. He struggled against the restraints, but could not do anything.
“Not fair! I just wanna go! How are you keeping me here? Seriously, how? This has to be some awesome tech to hold a mythic.”
Osteen walked over, bug-eyed goggles on his face. “Thanks to our magic book friend there, I learned how to make restraints for any magical energy user, even you. Now, shut up and get ready to be divided.”
“Hey, you don’t have to do anything rash. I’m a bunny. You want more than one, gimme a little time. Of course, I’m not really a bunny, but I could, ya know, make things happen. You don’t have to split me down the middle. Though, I still doubt you can do that. I am way more powerful than even you give me credit…” a hand clamped over his mouth.
Osteen leaned in with his hand pressing on EB's face. “You know, I’m not going to miss the constant chatter from you. YEOOOOW!” EB bit his hand.
“Yuck! What did you last use that hand for?”
Osteen walked over to the last working computer terminal and checked the growing energy signature. “Come on, charge already. I got a bunny to fry.”
EB laid his head back against the table. “You know, I always wanted to be in a Bond movie. And here I am, in the clutches of a mad scientist working to help take over the world. I’m even strapped to a table with a laser pointed at me. The only thing I’m missing is a Bond babe...and that’s like the best part.” His thoughts lingered on that smashed crystal egg. Someone was looking for him. But would they find him in time?
Kid Chaos and Triblade skidded as they rounded a corner. People dodged them as they ran down the street.
“Are you sure it’s this way?” Kid Chaos asked.
Triblade checked a read-out on his wrist monitor. “The alert came from the Sixth Fourth Bank on Main street. It has to be down this way. Nevets and Crossroads should meet us there.”
They came to a stop near a blockade of police cars. An officer handed off his bullhorn and approached Triblade. “We have a situation here. Two psychos are in there with a bank full of hostages. They are currently unloading everything of value, but they also have a bomb...or at least they have reported a bomb. We can’t approach without risking blowing the place to hell and killing everyone.”
Just then, Nevets and Crossroads showed up. Triblade said, “Crossroads, can you slip into that place and find out if they have a real bomb present, or are bluffing.”
“No problem.” She waved her hand over her body, and her super suit changed to civilian clothing. She then turned her body and appeared to spin into nothingness.
Nevets said, “should we just storm the place?”
Kid Chaos answered, “not unless we wanted a lot of dead people to answer for.”
Crossroads re-appeared, in her hand she held two guns. “Those bozos are busy looting the safe and left their guns on a counter. Oh, and their bomb is a paper towel roll duct-taped to an old VCR and spray painted. The only bomb that’ll happen is if they put in Waterworld.”
The officer turned to his men, but Triblade stopped him. “Let us. This shouldn’t take long.” He gave his team a nod, and they zoomed and portaled into the bank.
In seven minutes, they were shoving a pair of bewildered wannabe criminals out while the hostages gleefully ran to the arms of their worried family and friends. There were cheers, and a local newspaper reporter rushed up to get an interview.
“So, you’re with the local Super Hero League.”
Triblade answered, “yes, we are Fifth Precinct Omni…”
Just then, several dozen men and women came running toward them. Many carried signs that said things like, “down with BADGE” and “Arrest Nova!” Objects were thrown at them as well as harsh words.
“Go away, villains!” “Your kind aren’t welcome here!” “Let the police do their jobs, we don’t need heroes!”
A glass bottle hit Kid Chaos and shattered. He caught the second bottle and was about to throw it right back when Nevets stopped the potentially deadly return projectile.
“No, don’t respond.”
Another band of loud protesters came from a different direction, this time with actual weapons. They carried a banner proclaiming ‘The Anti-BADGE Peoples Militia.’
Triblade grabbed the others. “Let’s get outta here. No confrontation, just move.”
***
Nova watched the screes before him, each showing a different protest happening all over the planet. Quark stood with him, a new tint of blue as he controlled his anger.
“Incoming transmission. League HQ connections active.”
“Good, put them on screen.”
The massive monitor changed to dozens of video feeds from inside the League HQ’s across the planet. Leaders of these leagues all waited for Nova to speak.
“Everyone is present. Good. Okay, first order of business. Dr. Stone, has your Psy League investigated the protests?”
A bald black man in a lab coat answered. “Yes. We scanned the minds of several of the larger protests. You were right. There are instigators seeded among the people. They aren’t who they appear to be and they are stirring the protests to become as violent as they can. But, we couldn’t dig out any useful information.”
“At least we know that this is not just spontaneous protests.”
“How does that help?” Necromaniac asked.
“It tells me we can put a stop to this once we end the real threat. Remove those sending in the instigators and the protesting should fade.”
Ace said, “sir, we have been tracking the transmissions from the local police across the planet. People are going missing by the hundreds. Every single case is a person who registered as a conduit for morphonic powers, but they never got the full test before they vanished. This can’t be a coincidence.”
“Our enemy is up to something and these people are part of it.”
Suzie X asked, “what do you need us to do?”
“It may be hard to say this, but I need all Leagues to refrain from being outside their HQs as much as possible. We have to curb the insanity. These are civilians being encouraged to violence. Let’s remove their target. Small time crimes will have to remain in the hands of the police. Low-level villain activity will have to go unchecked. Just keep your comms open for when I give the signal. I know something is going to happen and soon. I’ll have Quark and non-hero agents out looking into these kidnappings.”
“Understood.” Several stated, and the screens went dark.
Quark asked, “what now? Do we know who our enemy is?”
“Not exactly. But, I’m absolutely certain that this Judge Alpha is part of something deeper and darker than just the World Corps. So far I have met a Gamma and now an Alpha…”
“Don’t forget Arx mentioned a man named Delta.”
“Yes. These must be cover names for a secret organization.”
Quark asked, “what are they after?”
“From my experience, a good villain will shift the blame for what they are doing to their enemy. So, they are accusing us of trying to overthrow the world governments. I wager that’s exactly what they’re up to.”
“World domination...unoriginal but problematic.”
A siren went off and one robot turned on a monitor, which showed a billowing cloud of smoke. “Alert, large energy explosion in the middle of the ocean. Morphonic energy signatures are extremely high. Location: Last known location of Agent Chase and Agent Gar.”
***
EB trembled and eggs appeared beside his restrained hands. They would hit the ground and scattered chocolate everywhere. Above him, the beam hummed as a little light grew brighter on the tip. Dr. Osteen walked over to check part of the laser. Each time he created an exploding egg, an anti-magic beam would destroy it before it could explode.
“Come on, you don’t want to do this? You don’t want to be the man responsible for murdering the Easter Bunny? I know, I can be annoying. Everyone says that. I talk too much, I’m accident prone, and I talk too much...I already said that. But that’s no reason to kill me. You want money? I can make you a very, very rich man. I’m filthy rich. I got cash all over this world and I hardly use it. How about some of the best chocolate you’ve ever eaten? I mean, magical stuff I don’t normally give to humans. You look like a guy who likes his candy. I mean, I’m not calling you fat, you’re fluffy. That’s cool. Come on, pleeeeeeease, I don’t wanna die!” He was crying and making eggs without even meaning to.
Dr. Osteen snatched a chocolate egg before it hit the ground. “Thanks, but no thanks. My new friends are already making me rich beyond my dreams. Also...I don’t like you.”
Osteen marched over to the computer and slammed his fist on the big, red button. At the same time, a new hole was made in the wall and Gar came blasting through, with Chase right behind him. The action forced the laser emitter to break free from the ceiling and it blasted Dr. Osteens’ metal leg instead.
Santa jumped in from his sleigh and held a sword in his hands. “EB!”
“I’m on the table! HELP, HE’S TRYING TO FRY ME!”
Chase ran over to him while telling Gar. “Get the Doctor!” She sliced through the bindings with her magic blades and picked up the bunny. “You okay?”
He whispered, “I need...mouth...to mouth…”
She dropped him. “He’s okay.”
Gar ran for the doctor. Dr. Osteen, with a missing metal leg, pressed a button on his eyepiece and the floor opened up and he slid away.
“Damn! Get him!” Chase ran for the hole, but not before the room shook. The lone computer had a twenty-second countdown on it.
Santa said, “this place is going to explode. We have to leave!”
Gar scooped up EB, but the bunny jumped free of his hands. “No! The Avatars. They’re still here.”
“Gar, help!” Chase ran for the caged, sedated avatars.
Delta stepped into a darkened room where two people sat behind a long desk. Judge Alpha and Marshal Gamma watched tablets on the desk as the news reports were feeding through.
“Delta, I see the laboratory has been compromised.” Marshal Gamma stated as he held up his tablet, showing footage from the explosion at sea.
Delta nodded. “BADGE was able to track the Easter Bunnies location. Dr. Osteen was forced to use the self-destruct.”
Alpha asked, “what of the Avatars?”
“We lost them as well. Osteen survived.”
Gamma fumed for a moment. “We have lost a lot of expensive property in this project. Three Laboratories.”
Delta smiled, “Don’t worry. Osteen completed the army project in time. I evacuated all the subjects. We no longer have use of the Avatars. Dr. Osteen’s research with them is finished.”
Alpha waved a dismissive hand at him, “then eliminate him.”
“Don’t be so hasty. His skills with the weapons are invaluable. He helped design these guns for North Onnotangu. We may still have a use for him.”
Gamma asked, “what is the next move in this? Are we ready for the takeover?”
“Not yet.” Alpha stated. “The people of this world aren’t falling in line as quickly as we anticipated. They still have some faith in BADGE. However, the next phase of this plan will hopefully erode that faith enough to give us what we need.”
Delta nodded. “Agreed. I have selected the trio that will instigate the plan. When Dr. Osteen is ready, we will prep the weapons.”
Alpha said, “then, move. We don’t have time to waste.”
Gamma said, “I will prepare our secret prisons and ready the teams for the arrests.”
Delta gave a quick nod and turned to leave. However, he turned back and asked, “where is General Beta? I have not seen him once since we started this process.”
Alpha answered, “He is exactly where he needs to be. Don’t worry about Beta, just make sure this plan continues with no further glitches.”
“Understood.”
***
Chase lay back inside an oval-shaped object, bobbing and rolling as the sound of water crashed around her. Laying next to her was EB, smiling like he had just won the lottery.
“Are you sure you can’t zap us out of this egg you created?”
EB shook his head. “I made an especially powerful shell to protect us at the last minute. Can’t teleport outta here. Besides, this is kinda the perfect ending to my personal secret agent movie. The babe, in a boat, floating away on the ocean.” He put his paw on her thigh. “Wanna neck?”
She calmly said, “you touch me like that one more time and I will make you eat a throwing star. Got it?”
He slid his paw off of her. “Fine. Don’t have to be so stuffy about this. Just wanted to kiss and all. Not like Gar would see us.”
“Why would Gar care?”
EB gave her a frank look, “duh, he’s totally still into you.”
“I’m not blind. I know he still has a boyish crush on me. But, we agreed to be just friends a long time ago.”
EB smiled, “so, that means you’re available. I mean, the only guys around you are Gar, Nova, and Quark. If Gar’s outta the picture, then that leaves Nova and Quark. Nova is waaaaaay too old for you. Like, that dude is really freaking old. I don’t even know how old he is.”
Chase laughed, “he’s not my type.”
“And Quark is...well….”
Both said at the same time, “Strange.”
Chase said, “I don’t need romance. I’m too busy. And that includes necking with a flirty little bunny.”
“Fine. I know I’m cute, you know I’m cute. I could have any girl I wanted, except the one I want the most. The hottest vixen I have ever met. You are so cool, and strong, and HOT!”
Chase was about to tell him what she thought of his assessment when they both were jerked around. The egg stopped bobbing in the waters and was now flying.
“What’s going on?” EB asked.
“Like I should know.”
They were set down, and suddenly a stone fist punched through the shell. Gar reached in and ripped more of the shell away and revealed the sunny blue skies over an island in the middle of the ocean. The smoking husk of the lab nearby. “Oh, good. Chase! I was worried!” Gar helped her out.
EB said, “sure, worry about the chick but not the traumatized bunny. You don’t know what these jerks did to me. I’ve been thrown in cages, yelled at, threatened, forced to watch naked guy after naked guy get altered. Then they strapped me to a table and totally tried to slice me in two. But, sure, worry about her first.”
Nova walked over and pulled EB up out of the broken egg. “You okay?”
EB gained the broadest grin he had ever had. “You were worried about me?! Little ole me! NOVA BUDDY!” He hugged him around the neck.
To everyone's surprise, Nova hugged him back. “You may be the most annoying hero I have ever had to work with, you’re still my friend.”
EB said, "You came all the way here, from the station, just to make sure I was safe."
Nova quickly removed the hugging bunny. “I needed to be here, to check on the info...not because I was worried about you." No one was convinced by that statement, so Nova shifted into his normal stern mode. "We have a problem. This lab is a complete loss. Nothing left to give us any info. As always, these people know how to clean up their tracks.”
Chase asked, “did you save the Avatars?”
Gar said, “Santa has them. We got them out just in time. The place blew, and you guys went flying out inside that egg.”
Nova said, “Santa got the Avatars into his gift sack, cages and all. He’s bringing them to the station with orders for our people to find a way to free them from their special bindings. Right now, we need to find something to go on. I know these people are up to something and it has to be big. But, I don’t know what it is.”
Quark asked, “EB, what happened in there? What can you tell us?”
“Loads. First, they zapped me with this beam that hurt like the dickens. Shot me several times, then everything went black. Well, more like blurry, then I was dreaming, had this wonderful dream where Chase and I were on a beach and…”
“EB, FOCUS!” Nova barked.
“Oh, sorry. So, um, yeah, they dragged me here, put me in a small cage with an anti-magic field around it. Made it impossible for me to get out. It was terrible. I was treated like a common animal. But, I suppose you want to know the juicy stuff. Okay, so, they got these people, don’t know where. All guys, all big and muscly, and naked. Like, free hanging wing-wang dangling in the wind naked...ew. They jammed them in holding cells and pumped them full of chemicals. Their bodies drained of color and their eyes gained light in them, each one different. They must’a done like two hundred a day. Lots and lots of them. Then they all disappeared, and that’s when they tried to murder me. They put something in their heads. I...I could sense them dying.”
“Dying?” Chase asked.
EB nodded, a sorrowful look on his face. “Their conscience faded, like a person who dies. Whatever they did to these people, they killed the person inside them. What’s left is an automaton, programmed and changed. Cold and emotionless. It really hurt me to feel them going like that, one after another after another.”
Quark said, “the missing people!”
Nova nodded. “I had the same thought. These must be the people who have been going missing all over the planet.”
“What now?” Chase asked.
Nova headed for the landed shuttle. “We plan for their next move. I don’t know what it will be, but it will be soon. This is the first time they have failed to cover all their evidence. EB survived. That means they will move quickly. Quark, get back to the station, put the Leagues on high alert and tell the robots to get our sensors over the planet to work triple-time. “
“On it.” Quark flashed away.
Workers pushed hover-carts carrying the avatars still in their holding cages toward the laboratories on the BADGE space station. Heroes gathered near the sight, each watching with shock and dread in their eyes.
“Director Nova?” Agent Leslie approached.
“Yes?”
She gulped as the Avatar of Supernatural was pushed by, “are...they dead?”
EB hopped up and down between them. “Nope. Just sedated. They are gonna be so sore when they wake. I might make a chocolate with aspirin in it, or something stronger. I…” Nova grabbed him by the ears.
“Not the time for candy talk.”
“Sorry.”
Nova dropped EB. “The situation is bad. They aren’t dead, but we don’t know how to free them.”
A young student hero came up with about a dozen other people with him. “Sir, um, are the protests still happening? Can we go planet side yet?”
Nova took a moment to see the timid eyes of the inexperienced heroes. “The protests are growing in frequency. There’s an evil organization preying on new morphonic people. You need to stay here until it is safer down there. For now, BADGE will continue working to protect everyone.”
Just then, Chase and Gar walked up. Chase said, “Sir, Quark has some info up in operations.”
Nova looked back at the student heroes. “Study and remain calm.”
EB hopped over to the heroes. “As an instructor here. I think I should...woah!” Nova had grabbed him again.
“Come on. You need to be part of this.”
EB threw his arms out and foil wrapped eggs scattered all over the place. “Have some chocolate, it makes everyone feel better!”
***
The skies boiled with rolling clouds over Washington, D.C. A rainstorm had just soaked the city and was about to break. Cars and people still trudged through the sloppy streets, always busy with something important to be done. Even on this cold, wet early autumn day, the political engine of the USA had to continue churning.
Three figures appeared high in the clouds and flew down as if carried by invisible strings. They showed no effort to move other than a slight turning of their heads. Each was a male with a brightly colored super suit and glowing eyes. Their skin was almost devoid of color, making them nearly as gray as statues.
At first, this grabbed little attention, but soon enough, people noticed these strangers getting closer to the ground. Those that paid the most attention to them were an angry mob of protestors outside the gates of the White House. A woman leading the protests aimed her megaphone at them with one hand and held up her anti-BADGE sign in her other hand.
“GO HOME, HEROES! WE DON’T NEED YOU!”
The three men hovered directly over the crowd, their emotionless faces scanning the people.
A military vehicle stopped, and a man stepped out. “Heroes! No heroes have unlimited clearance for this airspace. Please return to your HQ and contact proper authorities.”
The protest leader smugly added, “SEE, YOU AREN’T WANTED!”
Finally, one of the trio spoke. “BADGE doesn't need authorization. We may go where we wishes. BADGE is under its own authority and you will accept that or die.”
“I’D RATHER DIE!” she screamed into her megaphone.
The super next to him held up his hand, and the woman dropped both her megaphone and sign to grab her throat as she gagged for air. The protesters screamed and threw objects at the trio. The woman lifted from the ground, still gasping for air. There was a great crack, and she went limp. Tossing his hand to the side, her body flung away, sprawled across the rain-soaked pavement.
The super leader nodded to each of his companions and they flew away from him. He then spoke to the camera phones trained on him. “BADGE needs no further cooperation with those nations beneath us.”
Everyone yelled and ran as there came a tremendous explosion to their right and then another to their left. Massive balls of fire rose into the sky.
***
Quark pointed at the screen behind him. “Our sensors have scanned the rubble of that lab to the quantum level. Our people have scoured everything we can. We have come up with nothing.”
Nova scoffed, “great. We need a lead…”
Quark interrupted him. “What we do have is this.” He held up his hand as a shard of metal appeared. “A chunk of metallic debris from the lab. I took it from the rubble in front of the central computer station.”
EB hopped up and sat on Gar’s shoulder. “That’s where Dr. Fatso worked all the time. He also played Fort Knight there a lot, while his bosses weren’t watching.”
Quark handed it to Chase. “You’re the best at looking at the past. Give us something to go on.”
She took the metal and focused.
EB said, “she’s so hot when she does this.”
She cast a glare sharper than her shuriken at EB. As he forced his mouth closed and covered it with his paws, she refocused. “Okay. I’m back to when this was part of the floor. Now, I can see the lab. Yes, Dr. Osteen spent a lot of time here. I….I can see the computer screen. But, it’s distant from this angle. I don’t see the data itself. I see a world map… with dots all over it. Major cities, smaller cities, no, I see some words on the screen...military compu...no, compound. Oh, god, they’re targeting nearly every major military location on the planet. Wait, Dr. Osteen and his men are moving a bunch of sedated people out of the lab. They are all dressed like heroes, the sedated men. Strange.” She let go of it and rubbed her face. “That is all I could get.”
Nova took the shard of metal from her. “It was enough. Our enemy is planning a major coordinated attack. But, when?”
“Alert! Alert!” The computer blurted out as all the screens flipped on to images of Washington, D.C.
“Report?” Nova asked.
“Media: on screen.” A robot announced when the screen flipped to the news.
A news woman spoke while the shaky camera scanned the billowing smoke on the horizon. “Moments ago, three heroes from BADGE leveled the two largest military installations near Washington, D.C. The Pentagon was not targeted, but bases were, limiting military response. There are no casualties reported yet. By the blast zone, the numbers are expected to be high. The military has scrambled a counter assault. Five fighter jets have been dispatched...they are approaching the...oh god!”
The camera shifted to the three heroes hovering over the city. Bolts of power came from the heroes and blasted each of the jets. Seconds later, more explosions scarred the streets and buildings of Washington.
“This is...unthinkable. They hardly moved a finger and...I can’t believe what I’m seeing.” Now the image was of three tanks being helplessly lifted by unseen forces. They then threw the tanks through the air and crashed them into approaching military transports.
One hero looked directly at the camera and spoke. “BADGE IS IN CHARGE NOW. STAND DOWN, U.S. MILITARY, OR SUFFER THE CONSEQUENCES!”
Nova grabbed his comm and hit the call-all button. However, Chase held his arm before he could make the call. “Sir, we can’t send heroes in...they will blame us for all of this.”
Nova shook her hand away, “I don’t give a damn about bad PR. I’m not letting all those innocent people be in danger.”
EB said, “Buddy, those guys are pumped with a lot of power. I mean, serious power. It’ll take a heck of a lot of strength to bring them down.”
“We have no choice.” Nova clicked the comm again. “Leagues, Heroes, everyone, head to Washington D.C. Bring those men down, now!”
Heroes flew around Washington D.C. firing madly at the three villains that hovered over the buildings.
Furious Squirrel used both his Steampunk Pistols to blast at the Green hero, nailing him twice in the chest. Then Furious jumped from an overturned car and threw a special disc into the air. It grew in size until it was as wide as a beach towel. An energy blast from the villain met the mirror-like disc and reflected harmlessly into the air.
The APS dashed next to Furious and then skidded under a laser blast. A large section of the road exploded behind him as he threw a spear at the flying hero. He then snapped his fingers and a black dog raced by him, and bounded up the side of a building and snatched the spear from the villain, ripping it out of his side and bringing it back to The APS.
Furious blasted twice again with his pistols. “Hey, APS, watch it! Nova said we had to minimize property damage.”
The APS deflected a laser with a wrist shield. “Sure he did, but he also said we are to bring these jerks down. A little burnt asphalt is worth getting the shot.”
Silver Paladin landed on the ground and then jumped to the side when an energy beam almost spliced him. He stopped and shook the large mechanical fist on his arm. “Work, you piece of junk!”
Furious rushed over. “What’s that?”
“A Tech Fist I got from BADGE hero support. It’s short circuiting or something. WATCH IT!” Silver Paladin shoved Furious away just in time for a laser to miss both of them.
A voice came over the comm, “Nova to heroes, disengage the Tech Fists at once. Something is interfering with them. Remember to focus on keeping the city as intact as possible. Also, bring those villains in alive…”
Zombie Ex-girlfriend growled over the comm, “Are you serious!? Alive! They’re trying to murder people!"
Nova answered, which everyone could hear both of them at this point. “Yes. These are brainwashed, innocent people. We have to try and save them. However, bringing them down is the top priority.”
Silver Paladin muttered, “this is going to make this battle take twice as long...ugh!”
The comm ended, and the heroes returned to their fight. More than one shed the special BADGE tech that was malfunctioning.
****
Delta chortled as he and Dr. Osteen watched the battle from their safe location inside yet another dark, secret laboratory.
“I applaud your ingenuity, Dr. Osteen. However did you interfere with that BADGE tech?”
Osteen smiled while a woman flying by their brainwashed augments struggled to remove the large glove over her arm. The augment was chasing her at the same time. “They use a wireless tech that employs a type seven Bluetooth programming. A simply hacking program messed with all of them at the same time.”
“And, in the middle of the battle, perfect.” Delta’s glasses flashed as explosions flickered on the screen.
Osteen asked, “what if the augments finish off the heroes?”
“They won’t. That is not part of the plan. Let the heroes think they won. All I need to know right now is, do you have the weapons ready for the ultimate act of this little play?”
Osteen gestured to a series of large weapons on a table behind him. “They are completely upgraded and ready for your soldiers.”
“Good.”
Silver Paladin flew with The Painless over several buildings, heading right for the green clad augment. The APS had the enemy distracted with clever cat-and-mouse tactics in the air. Other heroes fired at the villain from the ground or air. Most of the heroes were keeping their distance. When they ganged up on him, he would use some kind of force wave to scatter them all over the place.
“Should we get this close?” Silver Paladin asked.
The Painless sneered with a glint of anger in his eyes. “I want to put a boot up this guy’s arse. Hang back if you want to.”
“I’m all in.” Silver said.
Both sped up and met the green villain with a double punch to the back. The enemy was flung forward and came face to arm with Gar, who clothes-lined the man. The villain tumbled out of the sky.
The APS went after the falling hero while Silver Paladin paused. “Gar... what are you doing here? I didn’t think…” suddenly Gar spoke with a female voice.
“It’s me, Madam Marvelous.”
“Oh, makes sense. Good work. You nailed him.”
“With a little help. Now, let’s go kick this jerk’s butt.”
They dashed for the ground where several heroes had converged on the fallen enemy. He would gather energy to respond to their attacks, but before he could use it, someone else shot or punched him. It became a tennis match between The APS and The Painless as they punched the man back and forth.
“Looks likes he’s gonna be minced meat.” Madame Marvelous, still appearing as Gar, said.
Silver huffed, “Not good.” He swooped down, shooting a white beam of energy that knocked the Augment clear of the other heroes. This last attack sent him down.
The APS yelled, “SILVER! WHY’D YOU DO THAT, WE HAD HIM!”
Silver answered, “Nova said bring him alive.”
“Oh...uh...right.”
Madame Marvelous landed near the fallen enemy. “Uh, guys, something isn’t right.” She knelt down, seeming to speak with the green augment on the ground.
_
Across town, nearer the Capital Building, the pair of augments were going round after round with the
other half of the heroes. Hot Wings dodged and fired back at the enemies while Lumpsum and Skynett went directly at the villains.
“They’re weakening!” Lumpsum yelled out.
Skynett said, “good! You get blue, I got red!”
They each got to a villain and flew around them to distract them. Lumpsum got one excellent shot and sent the blue villain flying backward. The red villain dodged an attack by Skynett and kicked the hero square in the face. Skynett turned to respond when a thrown Might Glove hit the villain in the head.
Chromatic death stood on a nearby rooftop, laughing. “BEST USE OF THAT PIECE OF CRAP TODAY!”
The two villains quickly regrouped and were charging with energy. However, just as they were about to unleash hell, Midgardsomr grabbed one by the leg and use him like a bat to slam the other directly into the pavement. He then threw the other straight down, crashing him into his compatriot, creating an even larger hole.
“THAT’S FOR USING ME YOU PATHETIC MORTALS!”
Skelanimal rushed up to the two slammed villains and grabbed the top one and started beating the man still in the hole with him. “I...don’t…like...being...used. I...ain’t...no….villain….!” Each word constituted yet another slam of one body against another.
“STOP!” Nova jumped out of a hovering BADGE shuttle. His voice boomed in an unnatural way, causing all the heroes, even Skelanimal and Midgard, to come to a standstill. “I said to take them alive.”
He walked over with Chase at his side. Chase asked, “are they dead?”
Skelanimal dropped the man he was using as a weapon. “They’re still breath’n.”
Nova pointed at the hole. “Get them up. I want restraints on them now.”
Gar landed near and said, “Director...the media is already here.”
Nova looked up and saw several helicopters coming way too close. In fact, several flying heroes had to get out of their way. “Great, just what we need.” Clicking on the comm, he said to the heroes. “Don’t interfere with the media. Do not answer any questions. Don’t give them any ammunition right now. Any hero not part of clean-up or security, get back to your HQ as soon as possible.”
Many heroes left the scene immediately. A few went to work clearing up the debris. Chase and Gar held morphonic restraints in their hands. Chase said, “get them up so we can put these on them.”
Skelanimal held one of the two villains up by his collar while Hotwings helped the other. Midgard remained present, in case these two became a threat.
“Good.” Nova ignored the helicopters getting even closer. “I want you to…”
“Please...what...what’s going...on?” The man in blue asked.
The man in red weakly looked up. “I am in so much pain. I can’t move...where am I?”
Chase gasped. “Oh, my god. They’re coming around.”
Just then, Silver Paladin arrived with another Gar carrying the green clad man.
“Nova, good. We have a problem. He’s talking to us.” Silver said.
Gar looked at himself. “But...who…” his doppelganger changed back into Madame Marvelous after setting down the green man.
Nova looked at the men. “I don’t know what’s happening, but I hope we’re seeing a reversal to whatever changed them.”
A great commotion stirred all the gathered heroes and media. Several dozen men in what appeared to be military garb rushed up. They wore insignia bearing the letters MHA.
“We are here to apprehend the villains, surrender them, Director Nova.”
Nova, who had a legion of heroes behind him, glared at these men. “Not a chance. Go back and tell your Judge Alpha that her jurisdiction is null and void, as I have found no record of it in any international or national agreements or treaties. I…”
“You must comply.” The commander ordered.
“I must do no such thing. I…”
“Who...what is…” the green man looked up.
“GO, GO, GO, THEY’RE ACTIVE!” The commander gave a signal, and the soldiers lifted bulky laser runs and fired. The villains were vaporized instantly.
“STAND DOWN AT ONCE! HOW DARE YOU!” Nova was taken aback and unable to construct a solid response.
Chase quickly held him back from approaching the men. “Those guns...those are the anti-morphon guns they used in North Onnotangu.”
Nova seethed while the surrounding heroes all grew extremely nervous. “International agreements ban those guns. I know, I wrote those agreements myself.”
“The MHA or World Court does not recognize your authority.”
While the other heroes were scared, both Midgard and Skelanimal looked like they were about to rip these people apart.
Nova said, “Stand down, everyone. Return to your HQ’s...NOW!” This last word sent the heroes, even Midgard and Skelanimal, away.
Once the heroes had left, Nova said. “Tell Judge Alpha this is far from over.” Without another word, he led both Chase and Gar back into the shuttle.
***
Three hours later, on the space station, Chase, Gar, and Nova watched a special speech from Judge Alpha. She spoke from her podium at the World Court. Behind her were images from the battle, most of them during the last few moments.
“It is with great sorrow we were proven correct. BADGE, in an attempt to conquer the United States of America, sent three of their so-called heroes to invade. When it appeared they would not get full capitulation, they pretended to battle these three heroes. This thinly veiled attempt at coercing the world to believe BADGE is legitimately in the business of protecting freedom and liberty was a complete farce. When the battle concluded, which cost both civilian and military lives as well as terrible property damage to the US capital, the culprits were seen being escorted back to BADGE. They are so brazen and arrogant that they didn’t think we’d see them helping their own after they play-acted this little incursion. We caught them red-handed. The troops of the World Corps arrived and dealt with the primary enemies. However, we were unable to fully stop BADGE. Let me say this. The World Corps does not believe that all heroes are evil or have nefarious plans. But, we cannot recognize the good from the bad, we must interrogate. Therefore, upon reviewing the evidence shown here, we have convinced nearly all nations to allow us to apprehend and interrogate the heroes within their borders. Do not worry, if you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to fear. We will be fair and honest. When we are done, we will bring BADGE and their villains to justice. This I swear.”
Chase looked at the stoically silent Nova. “What do we do now?”
Nova said, “what we must.”
Cars rattled down the road, people hurried along the streets, and vendors called out their services. This was your ordinary day in Neo Utopia. A city built as a dream to bring cultures together. Don’t be fooled by its name. Neo Utopia was filled with crime, and plenty of heroes to keep the scum at bay.
One such hero walked about the city just now. An unassuming man in a simple business suit strolled down main street, observing the passersby. In his right hand he held a steaming hotdog smothered in mustard and dill relish, his typical Thursday lunch from Tim’s Street Food.
Pausing before the First National Bank of Utopia, he marveled at the amazing Gothic design and accents. He finished his hotdog as he considered the gargoyles on the corners and the five story tall columns.
BOOM! Screaming!
“What the?” The detective felt the road rock, the air shake, the entire city become instantly uneasy. Someone had just set off an explosion in the bank. However, when he reached inside his sport coat for his cellphone, he found an empty pocket. Pulling his hand out, there was no color on his skin. In fact, his coat had gone grey-toned, so had the street, the cars, and even the sky.
Women changed from jogging clothes and slacks to long dresses and loads of curls in their hair. The cars zooming by changed to roadsters and towncars. Phone booths popped up here and there. Even a police box appeared right next to him.
More screaming!
A gaggle of gangsters rushed out of the bank, several holding Tommy guns while the rest held bulging bags of loot. A line of Cadillacs waited for the getaway just as the sirens of the old cop cars raced toward the scene.
It was then that the detective saw a short man hang out of the window of the car, ready to return any fire from pursuant police. He wore a pinstripe suit, had short hair and an even shorter stature.
“Rutkowsky.” the name growled out like yesterday’s coffee...whatever that means.
Slamming open the police box, the detective dialed an extremely long number and then waited. “Yes, operator, reverse the charges.”
***
Nova sported a heavy boot on his right leg, still mending after a terrible break. With a step, then stamp, then step, then stamp, he made his way out of the elevator and down to the front of operations. Robots worked as usual, and Chase stood in command for the morning.
“Sir, did Dr. Henderson say you should be back at work?”
“What does that woman know? I’m not sitting around and waiting for things to heal. My brain is fine and I’m going to do my job. I’ve worked through worse than this.”
Chase gave him a snide grin, “so, that would be a ‘no’. Oh, well. I certainly don’t outrank you. I don’t see how standing around here all day could be worse than sitting in your quarters.”
“Who said I’d be standing! Get me a chair.” He motioned with his hand.
She retrieved a chair from the corner and he sat down with a lot of old-man noises. “Better, sir?”
Nova nodded, “yes. I may defy her orders to do nothing, but I sure as hell won’t make things worse by standing on this broken leg all day. Now, anything to report?”
“I’m not sure. We had an alarm, but it went silent before I could check on it.”
“Alarm? Where?”
She gestured toward one robot that put a map of the world on the main screen. A circle blinked around Neo Utopia with small bits of data rolling by.
Chase said, “our sensors detected a surge in morphonic power and there was an alarm set off from the bank...but it went silent before we could check. I sent a standard request for information, and they haven’t gotten back to us. I suspect it was an accident or a false alarm. Nothing else is showing up on sensors there.”
“Are you sure? What about that morphon surge?”
Chase shrugged, “nothing too worrisome. With all the heroes in and around Neo Utopia, I suspect the morphon levels in the area are on the high side anyway.”
“Lets check it out, just to be certain.”
Chase picked up a control pad from the robot and checked through the sensors. “See. The levels are high, but nothing to worry about. No singular spike anywhere.”
“Something doesn’t feel right.” Nova said. “Those numbers are too even across the whole city. And, look at that other sensor. The digital data traffic leaving Neo Utopia has bottomed out. A city that large and no digital traffic.”
Chase frowned. “I didn’t notice that. No internet signals, no wireless transmissions. That’s weird.”
“Do we have any drones around there?”
Chase checked through sensors. “Yes, we have several in the vicinity. What the hell?” She had just flicked on an image that was miles above the city. Green hills and splotches of suburbs surrounded a gray zone.
Just then, Gar came rushing into the operations center. “Director, something just happened.” He held an old dial telephone in his hands, a cord dangling from the back of it, unattached to anything.
Nova let out a hard sigh, “let me guess, it was ringing.”
“Yes. And I punched every button on it and it wouldn’t stop. So, I brought it in here, it has stopped.” He held up the old telephone.
Nova had a hand to his face. “That was our only basic telephone on the station, and you ripped it out of the wall.”
“This is not a telephone. Telephones have screens.” Gar stated.
Chase shook with a deep chuckle. “I forget how young you really are, Gar. That’s a telephone.”
“I’m over seven hundred.” Gar said.
Nova said, “There is only one person who would use a phone to call me. And, by the looks of things, I just know it was him.”
“Who?” Chase asked.
Nova spit the name out like it was a bad piece of steak. “Peyton!”
“Peyton?”
Nova spent a moment mulling this over. He looked up at that image of a gray town, the countryside slowly losing color as this anomaly expanded. “Chase, Gar, I have a mission for you. Both of you head to Neo Utopia. Check out the First National Bank and see what happened. Then get back here quickly. If this is what I think it is, you shouldn’t stick around for too long.”
“What about this Peyton?” Chase asked.
Nova almost growled for a moment as he simmered on that name. Finally he said, “don’t worry about him, just get back here.”
Chase turned to leave with Gar, but Nova stopped them.
“Wait.” He pulled out an old business card. “Here. If, by some horrible chance, you need help. Look him up.”
Chase took the card and left for their, hopefully brief, mission.
“What is Neo Utopia?” Gar asked
Chase checked their ETA on the nav console in the shuttle and then answered. “Neo Utopia is a city built back in the twenties to bring cultures across the world together. It worked, there are a lot of different people all working nicely together there. It grew a lot over the past century. However, with growth comes crime. Loads of nasty people and even some gangs and mafias have set up shop in that city. It’s the most technologically advanced city on Earth, but it is also a...wait, something doesn’t look right.” She leaned over.
The pilot said, “we’re coming in for a landing. Something must be wrong with my sensors. The sky doesn’t look right.”
“Just get us down.”
The sky was gray, tarmac was gray, every building, car, and tree was gray. The world… was gray. Chase and Gar walked across the open airfield, a breeze rushing around them. When Chase turned to see the source of this breeze, she saw an old Ford Trimotor plane with BADGE emblazoned on the side.
“That’s weird? What happened to the shuttle?” Chase asked.
Gar gasped, “what happened to you!”
She looked down and realized that her arms were just as colorless as the rest of this strange environment. “I’m… gray?”
“AH! ME TOO!” Gar yelled.
Chase said, “you were always gray.”
“Oh, right.”
“Come on, let’s go check out this bank and get the hell out of this before it gets any worse.” She pushed onward, with Gar close behind her.
Walking down the streets of Neo Utopia led them backward in time. Old cars rumbled down the road, boys hawked news papers from the street corners, some women dressed like flappers while others were in smart pantsuits clutching small purses.
“What happened here?” Gar asked.
Chase watched a police officer walk by, giving her a stern, disapproving look. “I don’t know. Oh, there’s the bank.”
First National Bank of Neo Utopia had police all around it with newspaper photographers snapping pictures with over-sized cameras and massive flashbulbs.
“Looks like the scene of the crime.” Gar said.
Chase walked him over and moved aside police tape to get nearer the Bank. A man in a suit rushed over to her, shoving her back.
“Woah, woah, woah, there. No citizens allowed, darlin.”
Chase flashed her BADGE credentials. “I’m here to gather details for Director Nova.”
The man snorted and chuckled. “A dame a police officer, that’s rich. Go, play with yer strange winged friend outside this police line before I have to take you in for indecent exposure.”
“Indecent exposure!?”
Several men on either side of the police tape whistled suggestively at Chase. Gar threatened them with a severe look.
“Move it, sweetheart, yous mak’n a scene. Now….YEOOOOOW!” He was poking her with a finger and now that finger was just about bent off his hand by her grip.`
“Back off before I break it off.” She shoved him away. “Come on, Gar, let’s see what we can find. These bozos won’t be of any help.”
Halfway up the steps, Gar stumbled and fell to his knees. “Chase… I don’t feel so well.”
“You don’t feel well? How is that possible?”
He jerked and his arms came closer to himself. “I. . . am. . . going stiff. . . I can’t…”
“GAR!” She watched him shrinking slightly.
There was a strange wave of energy that boomed out and stumbled her back for a moment. The world went hazy. There came the loud report of guns blazing from around a far corner. Dozens of suited men carrying Tommy Guns descended upon them, showing the cops with bullets. The cops dove behind cars and returned fire. Oddly, it seemed no one hit anyone else. They just kept each other at bay.
The gunfire stopped, and the gangsters strolled up the steps. A large, mustachioed man held up a metal fist. “When will you realize, coppers, this city is ours now? Neo Utopia is now Rutkowsky city!” He fired his weapon into the air, causing the citizens to dive, or scream, or run.
The suited officer that Chase had injured yelled out, “What are your boss’s demands?”
The tall gangster laughed. “I’ll get back to you with a list. HA!”
“Hey, Steelfist! Lookit this!” A goon ran over and examined the now solid statue that was Gar, which had become only three feet in height.
Steelfist laughed, “wouldja look at that! The Maltese Gargoyle! Rutkowsky’s gonna be happy ta see this. Get it, boys!”
Chase blacked out just after watching them dragging Gar away.
This room, it smelled of sweat, anger, and cigarettes,… mostly cheap cigarettes to be honest. Men swore, laughed, and threatened each other around over turned boxes and ratty old tables. Playing cards were thrown around, littering the ground, the remnants of each brawl over poker. Everyone cheated, and no one liked to be cheated, which was a dangerous mixture among thugs and henchmen.
Suddenly, the dimly lit haze was set afire by the light coming from the freshly opened doors. Shadowy figures came in by the dozen. A scraping, grinding sound followed them as they dragged Gar’s frozen form inside this abandoned warehouse.
“HEY, BOSS! WE GOT SOMETH’N FOR YA!” Steelfist yelled out.
The gathered thugs and miscreants rushed to see the loot. This, again, instigated fights between members wanting to get more of their unfair share.
“BOYS! ENOUGH!” A voice yelled out.
What power, what presence! This voice put every greasy gangster down. They shut up and backed away as their leader strode through the smoke.
A short man wearing most of a suit with the arms torn to reveal his muscular arms appeared. With an unlit cigarette dangling out the side of his mouth and a two-bit floozy hanging off his left shoulder, he cut a commanding figure. Everyone held their breath as he approached. No one moved. He snatched a match out of his pocket and struck it across the bottom of his shoe. Lighting that cigarette, he finally approached the statue.
“So, what do we have here?”
Steelfist timidly answered, “the Maltese Gargoyle, it’s worth a fortune. And, it’s all yers boss.”
“commere.” Rutkowsky wiggled a finger at Steelfist.
The brute leaned over. “What?”
With a sudden slap, Rutkowsky sent the behemoth reeling. “You worthless piece of gutter trash! It’s the Maltese Falcon, not Gargoyle. I wanted a mcguffin. This ain’t no mcguffin you moron! Now I’m gonna have BADGE flatfoots after me!”
“BADGE? Who the hell is that, boss?” Steelfist asked.
Rutkowsky waved a hand. “Nevermind. Jus get this here statue in the back, outta the light. I gotta figure this out.”
The gangsters dragged poor Gargoyle through the abandoned warehouse while their boss postulated a plan. The gangsters playing cards slowly returned to their rowdy games, coming to blows more than dealing new hands.
“Whatcha think’n bout Mr. R?” the floozy asked.
Rutkowsky smiled, “nuthin ta worry ya pretty little head. STEELFIST!”
In a matter of seconds, the brute and his closest thugs rushed to their bosses beckoning. “What?”
Rutkowsky slowly walked back through the fog in the room. “Take the guys and go mess up the city real good. North side and South side, don’t let nobody through from the outside. This city is ours and till I get my hands on the real mcguffin, I don’t want any problems.”
“Right away, boss.” Steelfist slammed his steel fist through a card table, scatting shards and cards all over the warehouse. This grabbed the attention of every gangster in the room. “Yous guys heard the boss. Get yer tails in gear! MOVE!”
It was 3 in the afternoon when she walked into my place. The sky was dark, rain soaked the streets. Why is it this dark at three you might ask, the ambiance required it. Still, the mood was right for her to walk into my life.
I could hear my secretary stating. “Mista Peyton not seeing no one today.”
Then I heard her voice. “I must see him, it is important. He’s the only man in this city who can help me.”
“I tell ya, he ain’t seeing no dame today.”
My secretary was dead wrong. I always make time for a good look’n dame. And, I could tell by her voice that she was one I didn’t want to miss. Her shadow crossed the frosted glass of my door and I knew my instincts were right.
“Eva, let her come in!” I called out.
“Alright, boss.”
The door opened and the shadow was only the sampler of the incredible dish served. She stood there, lips that glimmered in the dim light of the room, smoky eyes that beckoned every male with a heartbeat, and legs that wouldn’t quit. She would be wearing red if this story wasn’t noir and everything was in this blasted black and white.
“Private Eye Peyton?” She asked in that sultry tone.
I took my feet off the desk, tossed a toothpick in the waste bin, and gave her as good a smile as I could muster. “Who’s ask’n?”
“I… I can’t really recall. I think I murdered some guy and that I was making fried chicken, or was it pies?”
“Mildred?”
“No, that’s not it. Chase.”
“I don’t have time for any car chases.”
She came around and sat in the chair in front of my desk. “No, Mr. Peyton. My name, it’s Chase. I’m so confused.”
“You need a doctor, not a gumshoe.”
Using her silk gloved hand, she drew out my buisness card from her purse and placed it in front of me. “I woke up on the street and couldn’t remember anything. I had nothing on me except this card, and I knew you could help.”
I picked up the card and realized what this meant. My past was coming crashing to me, my present reality about to shatter. I was enjoying the story so far, but now things were going to get serious.
“Mr. Peyton, why are you narrating everything?”
“Oh, sorry. Force of habit. Moves the story along and is cliché. Fortunate for you, I’m the only person who can help you, and you’ll be able to help me.”
“How can I help you? I don’t even know how I ended up in the street.”
I stood and turned to the window. Opening the blinds slightly, I let in the light, cutting in stark slats across the room.
She asked me. “why did you do that?”
“Mood lighting. We need smoke or dramatic lighting and I don’t smoke.” I turned and came around the desk to her. “Look, Chase, I need to take your hands.”
She drew back like I was about to mug her. “Mr. Peyton! I’m not that kind of girl… at least I don’t think I am.”
“No, I aint gonna do anything like that. Just, take my hands.”
She took hold and I used a gift that I rarely let anyone know about. In moments, she was dazed and finally woke to reality.
Looking at her arms in shock and then touching the dress and large hat on her hand, Chase stood up. “What the hell is going on! Where am I? How...WHO ARE YOU?”
I tipped my hat to her, “Private Eye Peyton.”
“What? Why did you narrate yourself and who… wait, Private Eye Peyton? That card!”
I held the card up to her, “yeah. Only one guy I know has a card from me. Director Nova. If you had this, then he sent you. I tried calling to warn him, but the phone disconnected.”
“Gar pulled it out of the wall, he...GAR! They took Gar!”
“Someone stole your car?”
“Not car, Gar. My friend, he came to help. Something happened to him, he froze and became a statue and was dragged off. They called him the Maltese Gargoyle...which makes no sense.”
“Makes perfect sense to me, sweetheart. Those thugs are just as brainwashed into this as you. They was changed. But, if they thought he was some item, then he’s probably safe.”
“What’s going on? Why am I dressed like it’s 1940..”
“1930.”
“WHATEVER! Who changed my clothes and how did I get in here?”
I knew she was one serious dame…
“STOP NARRATING AND IF YOU CALL ME DAME ONE MORE TIME!”
“Sorry, sorry, part of the shtick. I’ll try to control it, no promises though. Anyway. Here’s the deal. There’s this lowlife named Rutkowski who operates the local product delivery service. Big business, but just a front. He’s really a seedy gangster boss who has super powers.”
“What kind of powers?”
“You look’n at em dollface.” He held out his hand to the window, showing the city.
“The gray?”
“More than graying everything. He alters reality. Rutkowski has a goal, turn the world into his permanent gangster kingdom, with him as king. He has a massive army of thugs and lowlifes that are as loyal to him as they come, including a few superpowered villains. I have kept him in check for decades, but he tries this once in a while. Something, though, is giving him on hell of a boost. He altered the whole city in a matter of moments and it’s already spreading. The burbs are almost over come.”
Chase went for her communicator, “we have to call BADGE and...what the hell?” her communicator was now a compact with blush and a mirror. “Makeup? Who needs makeup when everything is gray?”
“Part of the problem, doll. Reality is bent, everything here is genre specific. Your clothes weren’t changed, just altered. If you call in the BADGE’s little army, they’ll end up just like you, memory wiped and adjusted to this reality.”
“How are you not altered?”
“Same thing that gave him gave me powers. Our first struggle happened over that?” I showed her a beautiful grandfather clock.
She walked over and examined it. “McGuffin Clock Company, what is it?”
“A device that lets someone change reality to any time they want. It don’t work no more, but the power was given to each of us. He can change reality, I can unchange it. However, he’s stronger than me.”
“We need to find a way…”
The phone rang and both knew by the change in musical tempo that it wasn’t a cheerful call.
I picked up the phone. “Private Eye Peyton here.”
Rutkowski’s voice came through loud and clear, “Peyton, I know that dame from BADGE is in yer office. Tell her that I got her buddy, the stony guy. If she don’t want me to have my boys smash him to bits, I suggest you keep outta my business.”
Chase, who could hear all of this, said, “Gar’s indestructible. BADGE is gonna have your hide…”
I stopped her, “you heard that. Your threats are empty. Give up, you can’t stop both me and BADGE.”
“All I’s got to do is wait fer the alteration to cover the world, Peyton. Your buddy might be indestructible, but he can sink and I’m feeling like go’n fish’n. Now, my boys are gonna keep this city secure, till reality is done chang’n. You keep your nose outta my business and we’ll all be kosher, capeesh?”
“You’re in over your head, Rutkowski.”
Rutkowski laughed as he cut off the call.
Chase asked, “What are you going to do, Mr. Peyton?”
“What I have to, dial N for Nova.” After a few moments and a load of connections, I heard the voice of a man I knew never wanted to hear my voice again.
“Oh, god, you’re narrating yourself again. This must be serious.” Nova was his chipper self.
“Sorry. Yes, it’s happened. We need your help. The city is being held hostage by hoards of thugs led by Rutkowski’s head henchman. We can’t even begin to find out how to stop him without getting them outta the way. Think you can send me some help?”
“Yes. I will send the leagues in…”
“Not in, just to the outskirts. The moment they get in the city, they’ll be taken by the reality change. Just have them scare the thugs and Steelfist back into hiding and let me do my job.”
“Fine, but I’ll still send in more help. Just a few, think you can handle them?”
“Alright, we’ll do it your way. But, only send in a few. My power only works so much.”
“Agreed.”
Steelfist swung hard as he punched hero after hero. However, he was on the receiving end of most of the blows. Chase led a team directly toward him. She materialized her throwing blades, but found that they were two nail files instead.
“Stupid altered reality!” Still, she threw. They met Steelfist’s tiny glasses and his spectacles went flying.
“YA STUPID DAME!” He bellowed and came down hard to smash Chase.
Der Engle pulled Chase aside just in time and the fist plowed into pavement and stuck.
Zombie Ex Girlfriend grabbed Steelfist by the other arm and yanked him out of the ground as she flipped him over and slammed him, face first, into the pavement.
Silver Paladin took advantage of the enemy’s inglorious position and blasted him with a powerful beam of light. Steelfist crashed through a building, across a street, into the mast of a ship, and down into the harbor.
Chase and the others paused when they saw this and waited a moment. Finally, Painless said, “I doubt someone with a solid steel fist would float. He’s a goner.”
Silver Paladin came up. “The fight against Rutkowski and his men isn’t going so well.”
Suddenly, Der Engle yelled, “What the hell!” He stumbled back as his color drained.
Chase huffed, “the reality altering is still happening.”
Silver Paladin asked, “what do we do now?”
“We move. We have to help them bring Rutkowski down. It’s a long way across this city. We have to move fast or be sucked into this reality.”
The heroes launched themselves into the streets and over the buildings. All were heading toward the smoke and fires of the fight on the north side of town.
Private Eye Peyton punched two goons in the face and then pulled his gun and fired, nailing another in the leg.
Heroes were fighting against not just one man, but Rutkowski’s entire regiment of mobsters.
Midgardsomr punched the ground, creating giant potholes in the pavement. Rutkowski was quick enough to evade being smashed.
“GET OVER HERE, YOU STUPID LITTLE MORTAL!” Midgard yelled.
Five goons rushed in, each firing Tommy Guns. Heroes dodged and protected themselves from the bullets.
Rutkowski laughed, “Nice try, capes. You ain’t got nuth’n on my crew. Surrender.”
“Like hell!” Skelanimal rushed between Midgard and the goons. He dodged bullets and grabbed one Tommy gun. He used it like a bat to slam into the side of another mobster and then used his fist to gut-punch a third. Lumpsum dashed over him and clotheslined the last two mobsters.
“Take that!” Lumpsum stomped one gun, destroying it.
Private Eye Peyton grabbed his walkie talkie, “heroes, focus on Rutkowski. His goons are endless. Cut the head off the snake…” he saw that glare from Midgard. “Rutkowski, not the giant scary monster fighting with us.”
Heroes poured over the buildings and converged on the seemingly unstoppable crime boss.
Rutkowski merely laughed and his eyes created a burst of white light that spread over the incoming heroes. People rained down, falling to the ground and curling up on the streets. Their color instantly drained, their clothing changed. The mob boss laughed, “welcome to my world, capes.”
Peyton saw even Midgardsomr was colorless and shrinking down to a human size. No one had a reason to fight. They didn’t know why they were even here.
Rutkowski strolled up to Peyton. “See, it’s over. You and I, we both love this time. This here reality, it was the best and can be again. Booze, jazz, and flappers.”
Peyton nodded. “Your right, I loved this time. It was my favorite era. The curse of living for so long means fewer and fewer people are around to remember what we remember, to enjoy what we enjoyed. Life is too damned fast now.”
“See. Now yer talk’n.” Rutkowski grabbed him around the shoulders and walked him away from the suffering heroes. “Give me a few days. This world will be mine. You join my gang, and it’ll be swinging speakeasies every night.”
Peyton nodded, “sure. It’ll be the world I once loved. But, this world ain’t mine to decide how it works, and it sure ain’t yours.” There was a loud bang and Rutkowski stumbled away. Peyton pulled his gun from where he had tucked it at his side. The crime boss held his ribs where he had been shot.
“You stupid gumshoe. I offer you the world and this is what ya repay me with. KILL HIM!”
Peyton ran, ducking as the guns fired from the goons still around the parameter. He dove behind several of the changing heroes and found the man he wanted. “Please be the one.” He grabbed the man’s hands and pulled him back to reality.
“What the!? What just happened to me?” The man asked.
“No time. You that wizard guy?”
“Yes, The Wizard...HEY, SOMEONE’S SHOOTING!” He ducked when bullets flew past.
“Just help me out. I need someone to give my power a kick in the pants. Think you can do it?”
“I’ll certainly try.”
Peyton grabbed his hands again and when The Wizard gave him a signal, he focused his powers with all his strength. A fresh wave of energy exploded out and this time even the color came back to the heroes. Their clothing remained changed, but they were all instantly aware of their real life.
“Don’t just stand there, STOP RUTKOWSKI!”
Chase picked herself up off the ground and looked to see that the others with her were in the same state.
“What just happened to me?” Silver Paladin asked.
“We were all changing to this reality. I know the feeling.” She answered.
Der Engle ran by, “I hear fighting!”
They gathered themselves and dashed around a corner. Skidding to a stop, they found all the goons on the ground and Rutkowski being held by a furious man in a green suit.
Moments later, the local police arrived with a herd of ambulances. They strapped Rutkowski to a stretcher, heading for the nearest hospital to remove the bullet. “This aint over ya flatfoots! You can’t hold Rutkowski. I’ll be back on the streets in no time. Nuthin has changed, I’LL STILL WIN!”
Chase spoke with Silver Paladin and Hotwings, “Get the heroes out of this city. The reality is still altered, and I don’t want any more problems.”
Silver asked, “what about Gar?”
Peyton came over. “Chase and I’ll get him. I know where Rutkowski keeps his favorite hostages.”
“Don’t worry about me, I’ll get Gar and get back to BADGE.”
Hotwings and Silver Paladin left to gather the heroes.
I walked with her into the belly of the beast. Well, maybe not so dramatic. But this place stunk of old bathtub gin and cigars.
“You’re narrating yourself again.” Chase said.
“Sorry, force of habit. Besides, it just feels right.”
“You can keep narrating to your strange little heart’s content. I want Gar.”
I led her through the maze of rooms and tunnels. This place looked innocent, but it held lots of hiding places. It was at the end of a dark hall, inside a dimly lit room, that we found a strange statue.
“Can you shut up long enough to see if you can change him back?”
“Change him? Look, dollface…” a blade was aimed at my throat by this vixen, and she didn’t like me calling her a vixen neither. “Sorry, but I ain’t no sculptor.”
“He isn’t a statue. Well, he is, but he lives. It’s a long story. Just change him back.”
I wasn’t sure if this dame was daft...ooh, there’s that blade again. Taking hold of the stone hands on this thing, I used my powers. You couldn’t have paid for better shock treatment than what happened next. That statue grew in size and then lifted its wings and said thank you. Yes, I almost wet myself.
“Chase, why is he talking like that?” The statue asked.
She rolled her eyes. “Ignore him. Gar, are you okay?”
He stretched his wings and rolled his shoulders. “I think so. What happened?”
“I’ll explain later. We both need to get out of here.”
They followed me back out of this maze, that statue staring at me the whole time. We got through town and back to the airstrip where a BADGE airplane waited.
“Why are we getting into an airplane?” the statue asked.
Chase shoved him toward the door. “Just get in, it’ll be a shuttle soon enough.”
Finally, it was her and I. A fog blowing across the tarmac, a soft piano playing in the background...who was playing is anyone’s guess.
“So, when will this world turn back into a modern city?” She asked.
“Soon enough. I’ll be here to help protect it. Glad you and BADGE were around though, it was a tough job.”
She smiled in a way that I liked. “Well, even though you were annoying, you saved us. So, I suppose you are capable.”
“I’ll take that as a high compliment from you. I just hope we get to work together someday. I like you, you have moxy.”
She stepped up the ramp to the plan. “Don’t count on it. But, if you need us, you can…”
“I know how to reach you, I just dial N for Nova.”
“I’m on my way!” Starmaster walked across an open field. He approached the levitating person.
The Master of Mental sat in a meditation pose, hovering above the ground. Her purple skin emanating a strong glow.
“Ah, one who uses my blessings approaches.” She spoke directly into his mind.
Starmaster responded with a telepathic voice. “Mental, I’m here to check on you.”
“You are here at the orders of BADGE from Director Nova. He wants to know where we are and what we are doing.” The thoughts in his head were rifled through and he saw her examine the conversations he had with Nova just an hour ago.
“Very good. I suppose a creature made up of mental morphons would have exceptional telepathic powers.”
With a clever smile on her face, she answered him. “I am what I am.”
“What are you doing here?”
Reaching down, she caressed the grass. “Here, long ago, was a source of great wisdom. A library was here before it burned. Many brilliant minds came here and educated themselves. I can still feel the residual mental power.”
“Power? These people had morphonic powers?”
“No. This was before the Morphons enhanced the humans. However, morphons enhance what exists. Morphons do not create powers, they give them a new strength, a new avenue of use.”
Starmaster sat next to her. “I see. How interesting. I suppose you have a point. Strength isn’t new, super heroes just have enhanced strength. And, technology wasn’t created by morphons, we just use it differently. I never considered this before.”
Mental closed her eyes and suddenly he had a glow around him. She said, “You had a powerful mind before the morphons changed you. This is why your powers manifested in telepathic and telekinetic ways.”
“Yes, I don’t wish to sound arrogant, but I was always more thoughtful, more willing to learn than the people around me. I suppose my mind was stronger, though I never really realized that until this moment.”
Mental opened her eyes and looked at him. “In all humans is the capacity to grow, learn, and be something greater than they realize. However, many choose to remain small for it is comfortable.”
“Are you saying all humans could be superheroes? That everyone could be enhanced with Morphons?”
“No. The ability to tap into the strength of Morphons is unique to a few. However, all humans do have the ability to be more than they give themselves credit. In my short time since awakening, I have learned that many humans limit themselves and it makes me sad.”
Starmaster gave this some thought, diving deep into her wisdom. After a moment, he asked. “I was wondering. What... exactly... are you? A living creature, a human given powers… or something else? I…”
“Someone is coming!” Mental stood up, ready to fight.
Starmaster was to his feet the moment he heard engines roaring their direction. Half a dozen black helicopters blazed across the skies. “What are they doing here?” Starmaster readied for an attack.
“I cannot sense minds on those approaching vehicles.” Mental said, as though it caused her pain.
“They are a secret organization that has been giving BADGE trouble. I have seen that helicopter design in an image from BADGE.”
Mental snarled, “I have seen it as well when they tried to take Merlin’s Tome before Magic awoke.”
Starmaster laughed, “I doubt they’re ready for a god-like creature and a superhero working together.”
“I am not a god, do not be arrogant, be focused.” An energy filled her hands.
The ground shook hard, and dirt sprayed everywhere. Both stumbled and had to regain their posture.
A familiar voice spoke behind them. “Surrender or this will get messy.”
Starmaster turned and audibly gasped. “Arx? Where the hell did you come from?”
“Let’s just say I have a new agent and he’s setting me up for one hell of a new part to play.” Arx lunged at Starmaster to punch him.
Starmaster blasted Arx back with a telekinetic power. When he went for a second blast, Arx used a special device on his arm to create an energy field that absorbed the attack.
“Enough!” Mental opened her hands as a massive wave of psionic energy exploded out and sent Arx tumbling away.
“Good hit!” Starmaster said and then vanished, reappearing right next to the fallen Arx. He went to hit the man in the face when Arx kicked his leg and toppled the hero.
A strong breeze whirled around the fields, and deep shadows fell over the fight. The helicopters arrived, with mercenaries jumping off. Mental used that psionic blast one more time before they hit her with a wide, purple beam of energy from strange weapons.
Starmaster used a powerful wave of his own telekinetic powers and sent Arx stumbling back. He then vanished and reappeared near Arx and nailed him with a foot in the back. However, his victory was cut short when he saw the hoards of Mercenaries rushing toward his location.
“Starmaster to BADGE, HELP!”
***
Small shuttles darted to and from the orbital League Wars Arena. Several dozen space suited workers diligently repaired and upgraded the facility. Director Nova observed all this activity from the large windows in the mess hall of the BADGE space station.
“Good afternoon, Agent Justin. Who is this?” Nova asked.
“How did you know I was behind you?”
Nova pointed to the glass. “The reflection.”
“Ah. Well, this is Dr. Stone, Brian Stone.”
Nova turned around and took the red-headed doctor’s hand in a firm shake. “Glad to meet you. Yes, Dr. Stone. I have heard great things about your work with morphonic energies.”
“I’m pleased to be so well known. I’ve only been studying the phenomenon for the past three years and barely scratched the surface.”
“At this time, Dr. Stone, you’re the greatest expert we can trust.”
Dr. Stone asked. “Agent Justin wasn’t entirely clear about why you asked for me specifically. I assumed BADGE had the greatest minds for understanding the unique powers granted through morphon energy.”
“We have extensive knowledge in the field of superpowers. However, recently there has been a rise in new individuals, creatures calling themselves Avatars of Morphons. I don’t understand them and that annoys me. However, what annoys me more, an evil organization has been seeking them and desiring their knowledge. To what ends, I do not know. We need to know more about this situation so we can properly protect the Earth. That is where you come in, doctor. Study the morphons and these creatures will be a top priority.”
“I see. Well, I will do my best for the good of Earth.”
Just then EB slammed into Nova and jumped up and down, “Nova, Nova, Nova!”
Nova snatched him mid-air, holding him by his ears. “What is it?”
EB pointed back. “Just got a message from Starmaster. Something big is happening. Those mercenary jerks are attacking Mental, and there are TONS of them.”
“Crap.” Nova dropped the bunny and pulled out his comm. “Nova to Leagues, converge on Starmaster’s location, NOW! Be prepared for a fight.”
A pile of computer components rested on a table with five emitters aimed at them. Dr. Osteen placed a pair of dark goggles over his face and pressed a button. The lights in the lab dimmed as the emitters produced bright yellow beams. This energy lit up the tech on the table and then it died down. He quickly checked over the results of this and gained a wicked smile.
The door of the room opened and Arx came in. “Yo, doc. We got her.”
Osteen took off the goggles and tossed them aside. “It’s doctor. And, where did they put her?”
Agent Delta stepped in, bandages on his face and neck. “Here, of course.”
“Oooh. Lemme see her.” Osteen grabbed another sensor device and followed them out of his lab.
They walked through the storage area where the caged animals rested. Mercenary agents of the secret organization waited around the parameter with weapons ready. In the last cage rested the bluish purple woman with bright red hair. A device wrapped around her head and they bound her hands behind her.
Osteen hesitated when he saw her, even hiding slightly behind Arx. “Is it safe to be around her? I don’t want her messing with my head.”
Delta flicked the cage with his hand. “She’s asleep, and even if she weren’t, this cage blocks her powers. That restraint on her head is also designed to dampen her powers. If your data on morphonic radiation is accurate, our tech is perfectly suited to keep her contained.”
“My data is just fine. Don’t forget, it was I who first awoke the avatars.” Osteen stepped around Arx and held up his scanner to read her.
Delta said, “yes, of course. It was your work that revealed these creatures to us and provided us a tool which will grant us our desires… so long as you continue to produce results.”
“Don’t worry. I have always been reliable. Why do you think I’m the most wanted scientist in the world, I produce results no matter the costs.” He chuckled with glee.
Arx said, “there were a lot more guys working with me. I didn’t know you had so many extras.”
“They aren’t extras, they are mercenaries. We added to our ranks recently. The next phase of this plan requires a lot of encounters with those Avatars and BADGE. We need a distraction, something to keep them busy. So, my organization just hired a lot more thugs who want to play at being some kind of special forces. They will go and randomly mess with the heroes around the world while we continue with the plan.”
Arx asked, “what’s this big plan of yours? You said I was part of it. I like a juicy part, but I gotta know how to prep for it, ya know?”
“Just keep following our orders and you’ll play your part perfectly.” Delta said.
Arx smiled at his own reflection in his flexed, shiny arm. “Awesome. Just so I get my adoring audience back. I miss all the girls drooling over me.”
Delta ignored the egomaniac and asked Osteen, “what do you need next?”
“Just tell your soldiers to move the equipment from storage room five into here and set up one of the units over this cage. I’ll set up the next process to extract what we need.”
Delta snapped his fingers and the nearest soldiers rushed to fulfill this order. “Anything else?”
“No, that’ll do fine.” Osteen checked his readings with a lusty smile. “However did you get the information I needed? This kind of data would have taken me years to extrapolate.”
“I read it in a magic book, which we will obtain soon enough.”
Osteen asked, “You mean the Avatar of Magic? That old Tome of Merlin? I thought that was just a fable. Was it real?”
“Yes. BADGE had it. We got it, I read it. They think I’m dead and that they saved the book from our clutches. BADGE underestimates our organization or that I’m trained to have a perfect, photographic memory.”
“What’s a photogenic memory?” Arx asked.
Delta said, “photographic, you idiot. It means I don’t forget things. Now, go take selfies in a mirror, I’m sick of the glare off your biceps.”
“Will do.” That insult went right over Arx’s head, and he located the nearest mirror.
Osteen said, “I can have…” his sensor let out an alarm.
“What’s that?” Delta asked, his soldiers ready to strike.
“I see we have a guest, just as I suspected.” Osteen rushed back toward his lab.
Upon opening the door, they found that pile of computer components forming into a humanoid figure. The technological man smiled at Osteen. “Greetings friend. Been a while.”
Osteen said, “I see super charging that stuff with tech specific morphons was just the right bait.”
“Bait? What for?” The Master of Tech asked.
Delta said, “you.” His soldiers shot Master of Tech with five special beams and he went down.
***
Footage from the battle with the mercenary forces filled the monitors in the Operations room. Shards of tech, scraps of cloth, and a few fallen mercs were being examined by drones and people on the scene.
Starmaster, sporting a nasty black eye, looked up at a hovering drone. “We’ve searched the area more than a dozen times, no sign of Mental. She’s gone.”
Nova said, “we can’t find a single scrap of footage of her abduction during the conflict.”
“It was a hairy fight. They used weapons I’ve never seen. We’re lucky we didn’t lose anyone. There were a lot of them. I didn’t expect such a horde.”
Nova stroked his goatee. “I suspect our enemy has bolstered his ranks with more mercenaries. Probably a lot of scrappy wannabe mercs that’ll do anything for a paycheck.”
“Whoever they were, they made a mess.”
Nova continued looking over the other drone images. “Gather what you can from that debris and begin searching for our enemies’ HQ.”
Shinobi, who held a small bit of the fallen tech from the fight, joined Starmaster. “This stuff is unique. I’m sure we can trace it like we traced the tech on that giant robot that attacked Vegas earlier.”
“Good. Then get on it.”
Starmaster said, “we have a few minor problems. Small bands of those mercenaries have attacked heroes outside this area. I don’t know if this is just other organizations taking advantage of the situation, or if our enemy has some motive for random strikes.”
Nova said, “our enemy just kidnapped one of the Avatars. Locating the others will be their top priority and ours. My guess is that their soldiers are out there searching for clues. We need to find the head of this snake and cut it off. Tell the heroes to be aware that the risk level is heightened, but the objective remains the same. Find our enemy and protect the remaining Avatars.”
“Understood.” Both Shinobi and Starmaster answered.
The large monitor at the front of the Operations buzzed with various images and videos. Connections had been made with League HQ’s across the planet. All the while, Nova kept a keen eye on everything.
“We don’t have any sign of trouble here, sir.” Shinobi said through his small screen.
Nova looked over at Kid Chaos. “has your team found any leads we can follow?”
Chaos said, “not yet. We’ve been scouring New Amsterdam’s seediest places for info on this secret organization. These crime bosses know nothing. I’d wager this secret organization doesn’t deal with the regular street-scum.”
“I don’t think so either. Keep searching for clues, for anything that will give us a lead.”
Chaos gave a swift salute with two figures off his forehead, and the signal ended.
The elevator behind him opened, and both Chase and Dr. Stone came out. The doctor stopped at the sight of all the people on the screen now looking at him. “Wow, is this where all the heroes are commanded?”
Skelanimal, on a small screen in the upper corner, replied, “hell no. We just answer his call when we feel like it.”
Nova muted Skelanimal’s feed and then addressed Dr. Stone. “Ignore him. Doctor, we have a growing situation and I hope you have something to help me.”
Doctor Stone came up with a computer tablet in his hand. “Agent Chase brought me up to speed on the way. I just finished installing my computer equipment in the lab and I think we can use it to help… I hope.”
“In what way?”
Stone went to hand the tablet to a person behind one of the computer stations and jerked back at the sight of the faceless robot operating the system. “Uh… can I talk to it.”
“How can I be of assistance?” The robot asked in a dry tone.
“Oh, uh, here, use this to connect to my lab.”
“Understood.”
Nova asked, “what is this?”
“I have developed a sensor system that can identify spikes in morphonic radiation. Specifically, I can see when it is in use. If my theories are correct, these Avatar creatures are made mostly of morphons, thus their bodies utilize them like our bodies utilize calories. This means that when they simply breath and walk, they are using morphons that should show up like a glowing light in a dark room. At least that is the theory. I wanted to test this more before putting into any sort of use.”
Nova said, “trust me, we often test things as we go. Fire it up.”
Stone watched the robot do its work, then took the tablet and used it to control the system. “Can I put it on the main screen, that will help see this working.”
“Do as he asks.” Nova turned back to the monitor just as all they cut the channels off, replaced by a large map of the planet.
Stone walked up and punched controls. “Okay, so… activating the sensor net… connecting to the BADGE satellite system. Annnnd, it should go active… now.”
A yellow fuzz covered the map. This completely blocked the continents.
“What’s that?” Nova asked.
“That would be the morphonic radiation in the atmosphere. The system is reading the broad spectrum, it will take a second to narrow down spikes.”
Chase asked, “is there that much morphonic radiation in the air?”
“More or less. This is highlighting it, so it makes it look like a lot more. But, it is over the entire planet.” Dr. Stone said as he continued his controls. “Don’t worry. As far as we have determined they’re harmless outside of creating super powers in people.”
The image changed, and the yellow haze faded into thousands of dots all over the planet.
“What are those?” Nova asked.
“That would be the location of all strong concentrations of morphons. Likely, these are all the people who are currently using morphons for powers.”
Chase folded her arms and sneered. “I don’t think I like this. You can track all the heroes without their knowledge. It just doesn’t feel right.”
“This system would have a hard time tracking people by name. But, yes, I suppose it could do that.” Stone was oblivious to her discomfort.
“What about the avatars?” Nova asked.
“Narrowing the sensors down to the strongest signatures. And… there.” The yellow dots almost entirely vanished, only four remained.
“Four? Only Four? There should be six.” Nova said.
Stone shrugged. “This is what my sensors are reading. I can run them again, but I doubt they’ll come up with anything different.”
Chase said, “what if... they are dead? Would that effect the morphonic signature?”
“I don’t know. I have never studied a user of morphonic radiation before and after death. If they dissipate when a person dies… I don’t know.”
Nova asked, “can we determine which is which?”
“Not at this time. I have to refine the system to determine specific radiation signatures within the morphonic field.”
“We have locations, that is enough for me. Robots, I want each of those four tagged by all our sensors. Get me the nearest heroes to each one, I want people to find them and protect them.”
Chase frowned as she cocked her head. “Is that one… in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean?”
“Looks like it.” Stone zoomed in on one particular dot that moved along the Atlantic Ocean, almost directly in the middle.
***
Timebender raced across the ocean surface. The waves were hardly moving and his feet stepped on the liquid as though it were rock. Being able to slow time has its benefits.
Reaching a US Naval cruiser, he gets on board and re-started time.
“Hey! Where’d you come from?” An officer barked at him.
Timebender flashed his BADGE card and then tapped the comm in his ear to speak with his HQ. “Hey, do I know where I’m going?”
Stevie Krayne answered through the comm, “yes. Nova’s coordinates are in the middle of the ocean. You’re almost there.”
“And… this is where one of those Avatar guys is?”
“That’s their best guess.” Stevie answered.
The officer tapped Timebender on the shoulder. “Look, I don’t care if you’re with BADGE, we don’t take passengers, especially in the middle of the ocean.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll…” he was stopped as he slid to the side and grabbed a rail to keep from toppling over the edge of the boat. The waters grew turbulent, and a siren blared from the ship.
“Warning! Unknown submerged vehicle surfacing!” A voice boomed over the intercom.
The officer asked Timebender, “are you here to fight a supervillain?”
“Not on the menu today, skipper. I have no idea what this is.”
The ship’s crew went into action, getting ready to defend their vessel. Everyone paused and their mouths went agape in unison as a World War II era German warship lifted out of the water’s surface. It was covered in decades of sea-life and debris, the name Scharnhorst still visible on the side. Standing on the deck of this lifting ship was a man made of water and rock, his hands held out as the waters beneath the damaged warship carried it up.
The officer on the US Navy ship muttered, “holy crap.”
Timebender spent a moment taking in what was before him, a sunken ship from seventy years ago. The naval crew around him were at a loss for words. Suddenly a hand grabbed Timebender by the shoulder and spun him around. A gruff old man with a lot of decoration on his uniform glared at the hero.
“What is going on here?”
“Hello you to you as well.”
“Don’t smart off at me. I want to know what the hell is going on!”
Timbender said, “look, captain, all I know is that one of the Morphon Avatars just appeared and he has a boat with him. I’ll go over and check this out. You tell your guys here to not load their guns just yet. I doubt we have a problem.”
The old captain huffed and then said, “fine. Get over there.”
Timebender let out a deep sigh and put on a friendly smile. Deconstructing this problem had landed on him, and he was fine with that. He walked to the nearest part of this ship to the German warship. He smiled as he picked up a life jacket from the deck. Tossing it overboard, he focused his power, and time nearly stood still. The jacket hovered between the two ships, its descent to the water imperceptible to the naked eye now. He jumped from the Navy ship to the jacket and then hopped over to the warship. Time returned to normal, and the jacket hit the ocean surface.
Avoiding slimy debris and mounds of barnacles, Timebender approached the strange humanoid creature still working on this boat.
“Hey there, so... whatcha doing?”
The Master of Elemental turned and smiled at him. “Ah, you are a user.”
“User? Oh, you mean I use morphons for powers. Sure thing.”
Elemental became concerned. “I have explored the great depths of this world. There is much like this scattered about the floor of the oceans and seas.”
“Yeah, this boat sunk a long time ago during a war. I bet you’ll find lots of this kinda stuff.”
“Should the people of this planet not wish to clean the floor of the mess they make?”
Timebender rubbed the back of his neck. “Good point, and I will bring it up at the next meeting. However, right now I’m not as concerned with cleaning the oceans as I am with the current situation.”
“Situation?” Elemental cocked his head.
“Yeah, some of your buddies have been captured and might even be dead. I…” he paused when the distinct sound of helicopters roared in the distance. He could see a fleet of military helicopters racing their direction. “What has that captain done now? Idiot.”
Timebender reached up to cup his mouth and yell at the captain of the navy ship when a missile plowed into the side of it, burrowing a great, fiery hole. Timebender said, “Crap, I don’t think that’s a friendly fleet.”
“Those are the vehicles that attacked us when we searched for the Tome.”
“That’d be my guess. I’m going to help our friends, you get the hell out of here.” Timebender said.
“Wha…” Elemental froze in place, as did most everything else.
The world slowed down as Timebender focused his mind. He set his eyes on the navy ship and counted the lifeboats. He had to get over there, get the people to safety, and then get back here before time resumed. “Okay, I can do this. As long as the mercs focus on the avatar, those sailors will get to safety.” He told himself and then dashed for the edge.
Jumping, Timebender aimed for a shard of debris flying through the air. He would leap from it to the deck in the same fashion that he got here. However, mid-jump, a blast of yellow energy hit him and he crashed backward, sliding across the deck of the old German ship. Time instantly returned to normal as he lost all focus on his powers.
Winds blasted around the deck as the helicopters lowered toward the German ship. Several dozen black-clad mercenaries dropped, all armed with enormous weapons.
“You want to dance?” Timebender got to his feet quickly and readied for a fight.
“Get the Avatar, neutralize the hero!” A man ordered.
The soldiers went into action, then time slowed way down as Timebender grabbed a man and twisted him so that he would run into his companion. A blinding blast of yellow energy hit him again and time returned to normal. Two soldiers ran by, throwing small devices on the ground. A field of that yellow energy spread out, and Timebender felt as though the energy within him had been sapped. “What...how are you doing this?”
A massive wave of water crashed over the ship and took out half a dozen soldiers at once. That was followed quickly by a stream of fire. Master of Elemental fought with all the elements at his command.
“STOP HIM!” the leader ordered.
“Surrender!” Elemental yelled, and then thrust his hands forward, creating a twisting vortex of air. One helicopter lost control and spiraled into the ocean.
Five mercenaries raced up, each holding a bulky gun attached to a tank on their backs. They fired a foam that hit Elemental. This encased his legs and one arm. He struggled against this strange restraint, but could move nothing they had covered.
Timebender reached up with one hand just as Elemental looked at him and said, “save yourself!” A massive wave of water crashed over the ship, taking Timebender and a dozen mercenaries with it.
Splashing into the ocean, Timebender watched helplessly as these mercenaries encapsulated Elemental and then carried him away.
***
The massive screen in Operations of the BADGE space station was filled with the face of Gar. Behind him, the Avatar of Strength fought against several other heroes in one of the Fight Clubs meta-human rooms.
“He does not wish to leave. I tell him how dangerous it is, but he only says he invites the danger.”
Nova answered, “It is his way. He looks for challengers. You have to convince him these people will not meet him in fair combat, they will use whatever they can to trap him.”
“I will try.”
Just then, a red light beeped on the screen. A special emergency signal had been activated. Nova quickly signaled a robot, and Gar’s transmission was replaced by a wet Timebender sitting in a life raft. “Nova… good, I was worried this thing wouldn’t get a good signal out this far.”
“Report? Why are you in a life raft?”
“I found Elemental. He was playing with sunken boats. Just when I thought we were ready to leave, those strange mercenaries showed up and attacked.”
“What the hell happened? I thought you could…”
“Look, Nova, I tried. They used technology like I haven’t ever seen. They bypassed my time bending powers, locked me down, and then used some strange foam to trap Elemental. Had he not washed me off the ship, they would have murdered me. A few heroes arrived afterward and helped rescue sailors and me. These mercs... they are dangerous. Where they got this tech is beyond me. I thought I knew everything about temporal technology, but this was… amazing.”
Nova spent a moment mulling this over. Finally he said, “this is bad, really bad. Get back to your HQ, we’ll take this from here.”
A hot Florida sun beat down on the large city of Poseidon Island as loud noises burst from within the local Fight Club branch. Both superheroes and civilians watched in awe as the Avatar of Strength flipped a four armed brute and sent him crashing through a wall. People cheered and exchanged money on bets they had placed.
“I was sure Maximo would’ve taken that cat!” the club director moaned as he handed another man a wad of cash.
Gar watched this exchange of currency with great interest. After a moment, he turned his attention back to the Master of Strength. The lion man roared and challenged everyone he saw. All the heroes backed down from the challenge, most of them still sporting bruises from their last bout with this fighter.
“Mr. Strength, I think we should be going.” Gar said.
Strength roared again and then said, “Why? I am having so much fun! SEND ME ANOTHER CHALLENGER!”
“There are none. You have beaten them all. Let’s head back to the station to celebrate.” Gar tried yet another tactic to get this creature out of here.
Strength laughed and said, “I celebrate victory with more fighting! SEND ME CHALLENGERS NOW!”
“You do not understand. Your friends, they have been taken. You’re in danger.”
“HA! Danger! Only those who oppose me face danger!”
The club director said, “Mr. Gargoyle, you ain’t gonna get through to him. If he ain’t fight’n, he’s looking for a fight. Unless someone can beat him, he ain’t going anywhere. He breaks everyone he fights, so you can’t win.”
“Breaks?” Gar smiled. “Strength, I challenge you.”
“HA! I ACCEPT!” Strength beat his chest and growled.
Gar stood across from him and readied his fists. Strength barreled across the mat and slugged Gar right in the chest. This shoved Gar back into the cracked wall. Gar grabbed Strength by the arm and flipped him over, slamming him into the ground. This drew a great applause and cheers from the onlookers. Strength got up and grabbed Gar by a wing. He swung Gar around and nearly hit three heroes as he threw Gar across the room. Gar turned, met the wall with his feet, and launched himself directly at Strength. He punched him in the jaw and then grabbed his arm and pulled him forward, head-butting the lion with a hard crack. Strength stumbled back and then threw a fist at Gar, hitting him in the face and smashing him through a wall. Gar came out of the hole with unhindered ferocity.
Strength caught Gar, and both stalemated each other in the middle of the mat. “You are stronger than you appear. Do you not feel pain?”
Gar smiled, “No. And I don’t break either.” He thrust his knee up right into Strength’s crotch. Then swiftly kicked and sent the man crashing into a wall.
Strength lay on the ground for a moment and then roared with glee, “FINALLY, A WORTHY OPPONENT!”
As he rushed back into this combat, the bets were taken and more onlookers joined in.
***
Agent Justin readied himself as his shuttle approached St. Peter’s Square. A second shuttle followed. Crowds were gathering near the Pontiff’s balcony with dozens of camera flashes showering the building. The glorious wings of the half-dressed Master of Supernatural could be seen as he spoke with the pope himself.
“What is he doing?” Justin asked.
The pilot shook his head. “I don’t know.”
“Tell the teams to be ready. He’s a prime target standing out there on that balcony.” Justin charged his laser pistol.
The shuttles landed after the crowd finally made space for them. Justin rushed out, directing BADGE agents as he went. “Go, go, go. Disperse these crowds. I don’t want any civilians here while we get to him.” Both shuttles were emptied.
The agents went to work escorting the devout away from the square. Several of the Vatican’s Swiss Guard ran up to Justin.
“Sir. You do not have jurisdiction here. What are you doing?”
Justin flashed his credentials. “I’m from BADGE. We have a problem. There is an elite strike force hunting that man. They will kill anyone who gets in their way.”
“We need to get you inside!” The Vatican security chief ran with Justin into the main building while his people worked with the agents to help clear the crowds.
In a short matter of time, this security chief escorted him through many check-points and into the Popes room. The sudden appearance surprised and highly agitated everyone. The security chief knelt down on one knee.
“What is the meaning of this?” One of the Pope’s personal assistants intercepted them.
“We have a security risk.” The chief said.
The Pope stepped in with Master of Supernatural behind him. “What is going on?”
The chief said. “Holy Father, BADGE has sent a security force due to a threat to your guest.”
“Oh?”
Justin bowed slightly and said, “I am sorry to intrude. But, we have a high risk of attack. The Avatar must come with me for his protection and yours.”
The Master of Supernatural said, “I can defend myself. I…”
Just then, the scream of a missile came, followed by an explosion. After this came the roar of helicopter blades.
Justin’s comm came alive with the shuttle pilot. “Sir, a missile just destroyed shuttle 23. We have incoming.”
“Understood. Get into position.” Justin looked up at the Swiss Guard. “get the Pope to a secure location.”
The Pope said, “No need. We are quite ready for this.”
“I don’t think you understand.”
The Pope’s assistant went to the wall and pulled a painting aside, revealing a hi-tech panel. He pressed a code in and the color outside changed. He said, “After what happened last year, we installed this morphon based positron energy barrier.”
Justin watched as those helicopters released another volley of fire and it exploded against an invisible bubble around Vatican City. “Nice work.”
The Pope turned to the Master of Supernatural. “You may stay if you like, for your safety.”
“No, sir. Thank you for the offer, but I shall not put you or others in danger. These enemies are relentless in their pursuits. I will go with the BADGE agent. Once we leave, your city will be safe again. Thank you for the conversation, it was enjoyable.”
“I agree.” The Pope offered his ring, and the Avatar kissed it and then left with Justin and the Swiss Guard.
After a quick trek back through the Vatican, Justin and his team rushed Supernatural to the nearest BADGE shuttle. The Swiss Guard were at the ready to defend the Vatican.
“How are we going to get away with them right there?” One BADGE agent asked Justin, while watching the barrage of weapons fire from the helicopters.
The Chief of the Swiss Guard smiled. “Don’t worry. Just get airborne and we’ll take care of the rest.”
Justin wasn’t sure what to make of that, but he had no other ideas. “Pilot, get us out of here.”
The doors closed and the three remaining shuttles took off. Just as they were passing through the barrier, there came a fountain of flares bursting up from all over Vatican City. The enemy helicopters stopped firing as their systems couldn’t pick targets. By the time the flares stopped, the BADGE shuttles were gone.
The map of the world still covered the large monitor at BADGE with the sensor readings showing. They had three dots left, one moving extremely fast. Dr. Stone worked from a station to monitor the situation.
“Director, I still cannot find the fourth dot. After that one vanished, it is just… gone.”
Nova stroked his beard as he scowled. “Did you see which direction it went?”
“That’s the odd part. We saw that dot in the middle of the Atlantic and it moved slightly at one point, then it disappeared. Right there, in the middle of the ocean.”
“Head down to lab seventy. All of our Morphon related studies are conducted there. I want to know if a dead body that had morphons in it loses it’s morphonic signature after death.”
“I’m not sure if I can determine that.” Stone said.
“See what you can find and tell me. We have people’s lives at risk here.”
Stone got up and left in a hurry.
“Incoming transmission.” A robot announced.
A small window opened on the screen with Justin sitting next to Master of Supernatural.
“Director, I was able to get Supernatural out of the Vatican. Man, those guys have some serious defenses.”
Nova had a little smirk. “Trust me, that place has seen its share of crap over the centuries. I expect them to be secure. Did our enemy show themselves?”
“Yes. They attacked, but the Vatican’s defenses repelled them long enough for us to get away. We haven’t seen any sign they’re following us.”
“Good. At least you got away. I still haven’t seen any evidence of Magic and Gar is struggling with Strength as we speak.”
“I’m sure Gar can convince him…”
“You don’t understand. Gar and Strength are fighting. I tried contacting them and I just got the Fight Club’s director.”
Master of Supernatural said, “this is not good. Strength won’t stop fighting until he wins or is defeated. If this fight does not end, it will be near impossible to get him to listen to reason.”
Nova shook his head, “crap. Gar is beyond sturdy. He can fight for days without stopping. He won’t feel pain or fatigue. This is bad.”
Supernatural said, “take me to him. Perhaps I can convince my fellow Avatar to retire his fight and join us for his safety.”
“Be quick, I do not know how these people find your kind so easily, but I doubt there is much time before they’ll be after Strength and you. Get back up here as soon as you can.”
Justin said, “will do, sir.”
***
The snoring animals ignored the presence of other captives in their midst. Dr. Osteen walked down a row of cages, where three individuals were currently being restrained. He stopped at the cage with Master of Mental inside. She had energy beams connected to her head and was in a constant, frozen state of agony. Next to her was a cage holding Tech. They connected his various parts to magnets that created a barrier. The energy, which was his authentic form, traveled between the technical components in a constant movement, never able to settle inside one for long. The last cage held Elemental. He was in a solid block of clear poly-resin, like a bug trapped in amber.
Osteen checked the read-outs on the sensors attached to each cage. He made some notes and then turned and yelled in shock when he almost ran into Delta.
“Report.” Was Deltas response.
Osteen caught his breath. “How the hell are you so quiet? When did you get here?”
“Report?” Delta demanded.
“Fine, sheesh. I’m still gathering data from these specimens. There is so much to learn from them, it would take years to fully uncover what they can teach us. For now, I’m able to derive information to help with Project Neutral.”
Delta looked in at the frozen Master of Elemental. “Is it… dead?”
“No. All the readings show life inside there. How he survives like that, I don’t really know. But there is a lot about these creatures that defy science.”
“Have you been able to get what we need from him?”
“Yes. Inasmuch, I could get the power you wanted to add to Project Neutral. I was just about to apply the final implementation.”
“Good. I want to observe this.” Delta held his hand out, directing Osteen to continue.
They left the captives for another room. This one had a large table on it, with Arx strapped down. Various tubes and cords were attached to his body.
“I really gotta pee.” A voice spoke in their heads.
Delta glared at Arx. “Don’t use mental powers around me without my approval!”
Arx said, “oh, sorry. I’m still getting used to having this power. It’s really cool. But, seriously, I gotta pee.”
Osteen attached yet another cord to Arx. “hold it, this will only take a moment and then you can get off the table.”
“Fine, but I had a ton of pop with lunch and it’s…”
“Shut up.” Delta said.
Osteen checked a computer and placed two vials of liquid into a console attached by those cords. “Okay, ready to go. Activating the morphonic infuser, powering up the genetic splicer. The alteration beam is online. Glasses up!” He put on his dark goggles and Delta merely slipped on his sunglasses.
A large lever activated a bright white beam that hit Arx. Cords and tubes all lit up and poured energy into Arx’s body. Machinery whined and beeped as Arx screamed. Then the light went dark and the machines all quieted down.
“Arx! Are you okay?” Osteen asked.
Arx groaned and then said, “I don’t gotta pee no more.”
Delta shoved Osteen aside and looked at a sensor display. A greedy smile spread across his face. “Perfect, just perfect. These results are exactly what my people are after. Can you duplicate them?”
“I think so, but more tests will need to be made on other subjects.”
Arx pulled those cords and tubes off of him. “What did you guys give me this time?”
“More power.” Delta stated.
“Smartass. I mean what kinda powers, and somebody get me a drink of water, I…” Water came out of the nearby sink and flowed through the air over to him. He held up his hand, and the water became a sphere. “Duuude, did I do that?”
“Yes. Now you have the power of the elements, along with your other powers.” Osteen said as he scanned Arx.
“What else can I do?”
Delta said, “plenty. And, we’re not done. However, for now I have a mission for you, one that will use those new powers of yours.”
Director Nova spoke with Dr. Stone in the Operations center. The scientist hovered over a computer while he checked several monitors at once. “I don’t get it. How they can just vanish? Everything I studied in the lab points to the fact that once morphons are in the body, they stay. I cannot find any reason to believe otherwise. So, dead or alive, we should see these avatar people.”
“We have to assume our enemy has the technology to block our sensors.”
Dr. Stone sat down and rubbed his eyes. “If they do, then they’re smarter than us. This tech, these sensors, are entirely unique. No one should even know how they operate. I invented them a short time ago.”
“I have learned never to underestimate this enemy. They are many steps ahead.”
A robot said, “Director Nova. Incoming transmission from World Corps Security Office.”
“Good. Put her through.” Nova walked down to the front of the room, standing now in front of the main monitors.
An older woman glared at him. “Director, please update us on the situation with those Mercenary forces?”
“We’re still tracking and working to stop them. However, we have little information to share.”
“That you are willing to share.” She attempted to correct him.
Nova kept that calm demeanor, even though her tone was rude. “BADGE is not part of the World Corps, there are things we must keep secret. In this case, I’m telling you all we know. This enemy seems to be ahead of us at every turn.”
“I suppose this is why you sent this interesting request to my desk.” She held up a tablet.
Nova nodded, “yes. The safest place to hold these Avatars from being captured is on the BADGE station. I don’t want to move a lot of our heroes up here while the enemy is still active on Earth. However, BADGE does not have a large dedicated security force. It would be in both our interests for you to grant my request.”
She gave him a long, quiet glare. “I will discuss this with the others. You will have your answer soon.”
“Thank you.” The screen shut off, and he muttered, “bitch.”
***
A BADGE shuttle maneuvered over the peninsula of Florida, heading south as they followed the long state. Soon, they were over open water just before reaching a highly developed island.
“What is this place?” Master of Supernatural asked.
Justin said, “This is the city of Poseidon Island, a large resort town that is nearly as crowded as Tokyo.”
“Sir, I have a lock on the location of the Fight Club, but no landing zone nearby.”
“Get us in the street. We don’t have time for formalities. If the local government complains, I’ll let Nova deal with it.”
“Understood.”
A hero flew up and waved at them from outside.
Justin clicked his comm unit and spoke to this person. “Do us a favor and monitor the skies. If you see anything coming, let us know.”
The hero gave a swift wave of approval and flew away.
A crowd cheered and passed money around as they gathered in the streets. It was nearly impossible for the BADGE shuttle to land amid this chaos. No sooner had they landed did several police cars come screaming up to them.
Justin stepped out, his BADGE credentials already in his hand to show the cops. “Hello, we’re from BADGE. I’m sorry about blocking the street, this won’t take long.”
The police officer shook her head. “We aren’t here about you, we’re here about this crowd. It has already blocked three streets.”
“Has something happened?” Justin asked.
“I don’t know. This crowd has been growing for hours and I’m here to break it up.” She reached the thick gathering and tapped a man on the shoulder. “Sir, what’s going on?”
He looked back and became worried at the sight of the officer. “Uh, sorry, there’s this fight going on in there that’s like totally amazing. Both are just beat’n the crap outta the other.”
Justin let out an annoyed sigh as he said, “I think I know what’s going on. Those two are why we’re here. I’m here to get them out of here.”
The officer narrowed her eyes at him. “Then get them out before this gets any worse.”
Justin pushed and pulled on people. “Hey, move it. BADGE officer coming through. I…”
A man shoved him down and then said, “wait yer turn, puny.”
Justin stood up, brushed himself off, and pulled out his gun. However, before he could get their attention, Master of Supernatural put a hand on his shoulder. “Allow me.”
Backing up, Justin wasn’t sure what to make of this action. However, he was sure that this creature was more than capable of getting people’s attention. Master of Supernatural stepped up to the crowd. His wings stretched up and beamed a brilliant silvery white light. He spoke with a massive voice that echoed across the city. “MOVE YOURSELVES OR YOU WILL BE REMOVED!”
The crowd lost its noise as many turned to see who just bellowed at them. Several gasped and immediately dove away. Some bowed and left, a few conducted prayer rituals at the sight of him. In a matter of seconds, there was a wide path for them to follow.
Laughing, Justin slid his gun back into the holster. He moved through the crowd with Supernatural right behind him. He could hear the crashing and banging ahead as two people continued their unending fight.
Master of Strength flew backward and crashed into a wall. He quickly grabbed a large set of barbells and swung them just as Gar reached him. The barbells cracked against Gar, shattering the weights and sending the stone hero flying through a wall. No sooner had Gar hit the ground did he have a pair of weights in his hands that he threw right at Master of Strength.
“Hey, guys! Enough!” Justin attempted to intervene and almost got clobbered when Strength shoved him aside to go after Gar.
Gar hit Strength in the jaw as Strength hit Gar in the stomach and both flew away from each other. The crowds outside were slowly losing their awe and returned to their cheering and betting.
Supernatural held out his hands, and a light glow came from them. A light pushed both Gar and Strength back. “End this fight, now!”
Gar stopped struggling, but Strength roared and pushed past the light and raced toward Supernatural in a fit of rage. Supernatural coolly twisted around, grabbed Strength by the hand as he passed, and threw him out of the building and into the street.
Justin rushed over to Gar. “You okay?”
Gar calmed down from his fury. “I… I think so. I got lost in the fight. He was so powerful.”
Justin looked around the Fight Club. “You wrecked the whole place. This is a disaster.”
“Oops. Sorry.”
“Don’t fret. BADGE will rebuild it. Right now we have to get those two back to the station, pronto.”
Justin led Gar out of the Fight Club in a hurry to find Supernatural pinning Strength down to the street with some kind of white energy restraint. The Angelic Avatar said, “this is over. You have proven yourself.”
“I HAVE NOT! I MUST DEFEAT MY OPPONENTS! I WILL DEFEAT THAT STONE MAN!”
Supernatural said, “Not this day. The fighting is over.”
Arx landed in front of them, his body emitting a powerful glow. He smiled as he said, “Oh, I think the fight has just begun.” A fleet of those black helicopters buzzed overhead as Arx laughed viciously at his next victims.
Justin held his gun at the ready as he spoke to the police chief. “Get the civilians out of here, now!”
She watched while dozens of black-clad mercenaries traveled down on ropes from the hovering fleet of enemy helicopters. “I can have the force here…”
“No, get the civilians away and keep your people at bay. These mercenaries are dangerous and won’t
think twice about killing everyone.”
She ran, shoving citizens. Justin joined Supernatural and Strength as they stared down Arx.
Arx said, “so, here’s how it’s going to go down. Either these two come with me willingly, or I’ll use my powers to take them and probably do a lot of damage to this nice little city.”
Strength said, “you want a fight? I’LL GIVE YOU A FIGHT!” Just as he lunged for Arx, Supernatural held him at bay.
“Wait. Do you not feel it? His power, the morphons in him.”
Strength paused as he absorbed this sensation. “Yes. The power in you, it is unnatural. It comes from the others. WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO THEM?”
“Your friends are the guests of my employer. You can be our guest too.” He held out his hand in invitation. Several dozen mercenaries joined him, holding various weapons at the ready.
Supernatural answered, “we will not join you. Furthermore, we will get our friends back and remove what which you have stolen.”
“So, it’s a fight. Sadly, you’ll lose. Perhaps you will be a more interesting fight than the others. They were so easily taken, I…” A two-ton barbell crashed into Arx and sent him flying backward through his mercenaries.
Gar came out, another massive barbell in his hands. “That jerk talks too much.”
Arx, coughing as he caught his breath, yelled, “GET THEM!”
The Mercenaries went into action. They focused on Supernatural first, firing strange golden, glowing nets at him. Gar intercepted the nets with his wings and then dashed at the soldiers, punching them in the face.
Supernatural released a broad, white beam of light that struck several soldiers just as another net hit him and his wings were wrapped around his body, and he fell to the ground. The nearest mercenaries were almost upon him when laser blasts hit their helmets and they fell back. Justin stepped up and defended Supernatural, who struggled to remove the net.
Gar punched and kicked at the soldiers. They fired weapons at him, but he was impervious to most of what they had. One came running with strange tech hammer that had lights and controls on it. He swung it to smash into Gar’s head when Master of Strength caught the hammer and wrenched it out of the man’s hand. Strength then swung it around and cracked the helmets of two soldiers with one blow.
“Good one!” Gar said and then spun around, using his wings like blades to knock back the mercenaries.
Strength dodged the wing spin and then slid under Gar and used the element of surprise to grab a man by his legs and yank him down. With a swift punch, he broke the helmet and part of the man’s face.
Five more of these mercenaries came running up with those electrified hammers. They had on armor that appeared to be the same style of technology.
Strength got to his feet and punched, but the armor reflected his power, causing him to fly back. However, Gar caught him, twisted around, and threw him into the air. Strength came down with a hard slam of his fists right into the shoulders of two men, breaking their bodies.
Gar held out his arms and wings and dashed through the soldiers, clothes lining several on the way and allowing those electric hammers to crash into him without damage. Finally, he and Strength were back to back, fighting with the same gusto they had been competing against one another.
“It is good I know your moves, my stone friend.”
“I guess the training is paying off.” Gar answered and then kicked a man in the crotch so hard that he flew into the air.
Strength roared, “THIS IS FUN!”
***
Justin fired over and over, fighting off these soldiers. He lost ground quickly and that net still trapped Supernatural.
“I could use some help!” He said to his earpiece.
The BADGE shuttle lifted and turned, laser turrets on the bottom opened up and blasted entire sections of the soldiers.
“HA! Take that you…”
A missile came from the overhead helicopter and the BADGE shuttle exploded. Justin flew through the air, his eyes filled with fire and the bodies of mercenaries raining down.
Arx stood over Supernatural with his hands held out, a bubble of energy protecting him. “Nice try, BADGE, but this is my show now.”
“I don’t think so.” Supernatural stated and then shoved the net away from him. He released a beam of white light and hit Arx in the face. The villain stumbled back, blinded by the power.
Supernatural got to his feet and punched Arx in the chest with a fist, and then twisted around and kicked him in the gut.
Arx fell onto his rear. “You overgrown pigeon!” He launched directly into flight at his opponent.
Supernatural flew straight up, dodging the attack. Sailing right over a building, Supernatural avoided several laser blasts from the helicopters as he landed on the roof. He moved left and right to keep from being hit and then used both hands to throw blasts of energy straight up, slicing the blades from the vehicles. Both helicopters spun out of control and crashed into the alleys.
Just as Supernatural was about to examine the damage below, Arx landed in front of him. “You think I’d go down that easily?” Arx held up his arms and various parts of the destroyed helicopters came flying up, joining into a weapon for him.
Supernatural readied a blast of energy, but was hit by a newly created mechanical arm. Crashing through a water tower, he careened off the roof and down a street below. A new model corvette broke his fall. Arx slammed into the ground next to him, massive tech arms attached to his body. He swung down to crush Supernatural, but the winged Master got away just in time, allowing Arx to finish demolishing the sport car.
Supernatural formed a ball of light and threw it at Arx. It destroyed the massive right mechanical arm. “Enough of this, human. You may have our powers, but you don’t know how to use them.”
Arx yelled and thrust his remaining mechanical arm at Supernatural. The Master dodged this and the arm crashed into the pavement, shattering the amalgamation of broken parts. With a primal scream, Arx yelled, “I CAN PLAY ANY PART! TRY THIS!” He used a blast of mental powers.
Supernatural blocked the blast by covering himself with his wings. He spread them out, dissipating the energy. “Not enough. Give up, you don’t stand a chance.” He flicked his wrist, and a blast of light hit Arx and threw him through a newspaper stand.
Arx lay there, tattered papers flying all around him. A New York Today paper hit him in the face and he peeled it off. Before throwing it away, he saw the headline. Role of Arx in newest movie recast. “They can’t replace me so quickly! I am Arx... THE ARX... I defined that role!”
“Time to give up.” Supernatural strolled toward him.
Arx threw the paper away, air cutting between his teeth. “Want to see my power? Fine!” He slapped his hands onto the pavement and a green energy crawled over him. Supernatural stumbled and then fell back as the earth rolled and rumbled. Waves grew quickly, rippling out from Arx like a stone thrown into a pond. Buildings rocked and rolled, cars smashed into each other, hotels fell to the ground, trees crashed into walls. The entire island rocked with the unmitigated power of the Earth.
Helicopters buzzed over the massive piles of rubble. Smoke billowed in areas where the fires had been put out while raging orange and red infernos still glimmered in the night sky. Flashing lights of emergency vehicles flickered along the debris strewn streets. Yellow and orange vested people risked the danger to climb over broken walls to find the survivors.
A BADGE shuttle flew over, mingling with the rescue helicopters. With Nova sat five BADGE workers in yellow vests. A small screen hovered in the air with the ZNN news. The woman on the screen spoke as their cameras took in the same sights below them right now.
“This is what remains of Poseidon Island, the once popular destination for tourists from around the world. The massive Earthquake that struck the area defies all conventional seismological data. There have been no threats in the recorded data from sensors planted throughout the area. There has never been a quake of this magnitude in this part of the Gulf of Mexico. So far, the death toll has reached seventeen hundred and is expected to continue to climb throughout the night. Not one building remains standing and most of the infrastructure underground was demolished by the strange style of quake the struck. Eyewitnesses reported some kind of foreign insurgent forces surrounded the island, but at this time, official sources can not corroborate this. Rescue workers are needed as…”
Nova turned the holoscreen off. “Pilot, are we detecting any signal from the BADGE shuttle we sent here with Gar and Agent Justin?”
The pilot checked the communication logs. “I’m picking up a weak signal from the shuttle’s beacon.”
“Get us as close to that as you can.”
Nova watched while they came in closer to the piles of rubble that were once Poseidon Island. There was a bright flash and then an echoed popping sound. Everyone looked up to see the medical ship, USNS Mercy, appear near the wrecked docks. The Coast Guard immediately went to work constructing a floating bridge and make-shift docking ramp. Two heroes zoomed off the upper deck of the dock, heading for this shuttle.
Once the shuttle got nearer to the ground, Nova opened the hatch and the BADGE workers jumped out to the most stable place they could find. He ordered them, “Go, help the rescue teams. Stay in touch with BADGE. Heroes will arrive at all times, work with them.” They charged into action.
Starmaster and Strange Quark arrived, hovering above the ground. Starmaster said, “I did it, I transported an entire boat. That made my head dizzy.”
“With a little help from me.” Quark added.
“Good work, both of you. Right now, I need to find Gar and Justin. They’re still missing.”
“No contact yet?” Quark asked.
“Nothing. We’re right near where their shuttles beacon pinged the sensors.”
Quark turned a new shade as his body beamed brighter. “I’ll find them.” He flew away, emitting that light over the ground.
Starmaster almost said something when he dropped down. He vanished and then reappeared with a woman in his arms. “She’s still alive. God knows how many are still alive under this rubble.”
“Get her to the Mercy and join the rescue teams. They need all the help they can get.”
“Will do.” He vanished in a flash of light.
“NOVA!” Quark called out from a short distance away.
“Move us!” Nova barked, and the shuttle shifted to where Quark waved.
“I can sense them, down here.”
“You sure?”
Quark nodded. “I know Gar’s energy better than anyone. Wait... I got this.” He grew in size ten times and then reached down and peeled back the fallen walls and lampposts. With great pitches he threw the debris far into the ocean, blocks away. Finally, he uncovered Gar, who was bent over, covering himself with his wings.
“GAR!” Nova called out.
Gar looked up, revealing that he was hunched over a bloody and unconscious Justin. Gar gave a pitiful plea, “he is not well.”
“Get him to the shuttle, now.”
Quark shrunk down and then put his hands on both Gar and Justin. They all flashed and were now in the back of the shuttle.
Nova shut the door and then ordered, “get us back to the station.”
***
There was an uneasy quiet in the corridor. Gar stood still, looking at the door of the infirmary with unwavering eyes. Quark paced in the form of a duck, and Chase approached from another part of the station.
“How is he?” she asked.
Gar said, “I don’t know.”
Just then, the doors opened and Nova came out. “Agent Justin is going to make it. His injuries weren’t as severe as they looked.”
Quark flashed back into his human form. “Whew, that’s good news.”
“What we need to know is what the hell happened?” Nova asked as he started down the corridor with the others.
Chase said, “That’s why I’m here. There is something you need to see.”
They hurried through the station to the operations center. Dr. Stone worked with a robot, using his sensors while the screen at the front had a frozen image on it, looking down at the destruction on Poseidon Island.
Gar looked at the screen. “A picture of the island?”
Chase said, “It’s more than that. We were able to piece together a video from surveillance satellites.”
“Play it.” Nova ordered.
The image changed, reversing quickly backward through the destruction. Finally, it stopped and moved forward. First it zoomed in on the street near the Fight Club.
“This is just before the battle breaks out.” Chase said.
The video quickly moved through the initial battle and then followed Arx and Supernatural as they fought.
“Here!” Chase motioned toward a robot. “Watch this carefully.”
Everyone was almost breathless as the video zoomed in close to Arx. He placed his hands on the ground and the earthquake started. The video slowly zoomed back out as the waves of Earth rolled and leveled everything in its path.
“Dear god!” Nova whispered.
Dr. Stone came up with a computer tablet. “I have analyzed all the data from those sensors. Arx currently is exhibiting high levels of morphonic energy, the highest I’ve ever registered in any living creature, even those avatar things.”
Nova said, “then it’s true. They’re harvesting the avatars to give him power. What about Supernatural and Strength?”
Chase said, “All monitoring systems in orbit went offline just after this. It appeared to be some kind of glitch, but it happened to multiple systems at a precise time. Which means someone wanted to cut visual. The next video we have started after the rescue began. So far, none of our rescue teams have found anything left from those mercenaries, Arx, or either of the avatars. It’s as if they were never there. If we didn’t have the video of their initial arrival, we couldn’t even prove they were there.”
Nova said, “we must assume that they were taken, which means they have five of the six avatars. We have to protect Magic and we have to find where they took the others.”
Chase said, “sir, we can’t find any other signatures like before. I think they might already have the Magic avatar.”
“I’m not so certain. Arx is not displaying any magic related powers. Somehow, Magic has hidden itself, and we need to find it before they do. If they get Magic, we may not be able to stop whatever plans they have.”
Arx leaned over a sink and smiled at his reflection in the mirror. His silver skin shimmering in the bathroom lights. He rubbed a towel over his cheek and could see his reflection in his reflection.
“Nice.”
He stood back and flexed up his arms, admiring his chest through his minimal costume. “Oh, yeah. Still got it. Hollywood will beg me to come back when this is done with. Sex sells in the movies and I’m one hunky hero.” he smiled, his teeth literally flickering in the light.
“Arx!” Delta barked from outside the bathroom.
“That’s my cue.” He gave himself one last smile and then strutted out of the bathroom. Stepping into the laboratory, he found Dr. Osteen hard at work, five mercenaries waiting, and Delta glaring at him. “Hey, why so serious? My mission was a complete success. Two of those… things in one grab.”
Delta said, “you destroyed an entire island. We want as little notice as possible when we do our job. Not only did you draw the attention of everyone there, you decimated our forces. Our extraction teams pulled out more of our people dead than alive. Do you know how much these men cost us? Do you realize how hard it will be to replace them? We still have one avatar left to find and not enough men to do the job.”
“You got hundreds of mercs run’n around.”
“Those are just random mercenaries we hired to distract the heroes and BADGE. Our special operations teams are highly trained and unique. We can’t replace them quickly!”
“Hey, I didn’t have any choice. They were all over us. Those guys fight like animals. Did you see the muscles on that lion dude?”
Delta came dangerously close to Arx. “You got mad because your part was recast, then you lost your temper.”
“It was MY part! I created it. They named it after ME! I have a right to be angry. I…”
“You will do what you’re told!” Delta interrupted him. “We aren’t here to placate your Hollywood ego. You’re an expensive, important experiment to my people and I won’t have you acting up just because you’re worried about your dead movie career.”
Arx pointed a finger at Delta, and the wind in the room moved faster. “Don’t push me around, little man. I crushed an island…” all five mercenaries aimed at him with the anti-Morphon gun.
Delta, without an ounce of fear, said, “Strip.”
“What?”
“You have an ego problem, time to put that ego in its right place. STRIP!”
“Look, I don’t do nude scenes without…”
Delta reached up, grabbed the thin band of spandex running up Arx’s chest and yanked it back. He pulled out a small knife and cut it. “I SAID STRIP!” The soldiers charged their guns.
Arx begrudgingly removed his outfit, stripping down to nothing but his skin. The whole time, those five mercenaries kept their guns aimed at him. Before he had time to ask anything, Delta told one soldier to strap him down. The man shoved Arx into the experiment station and then put powerful restraints on his arms and legs and one around his waist.
Dr. Osteen pressed a button, and the station turned so that Arx was now laying back. Bright lights glimmered off his shiny body. Delta reached up and held Arx by his face. “You’re nothing but an experiment. Your public hates you and Hollywood has already forgotten you. If you believe you’re anything more than a pitiful excuse of a lab-rat, you’re sadly mistaken. Be thankful, we’re turning you into a powerful man, but understand that power belongs to us. So, shut up and do what you are told.” He yanked his hand away, throwing Arx’s head to the side. “Get me results, Osteen.”
Osteen put on a pair of thick goggles. “This next session is really gonna hurt. Just...don’t scream too loud, I need to pay attention to the sensors.” He flipped a switch, and Arx yelled in agony.
***
The water sped by as both heroes zoomed toward their destination. Gar glided next to Krystal Fae.
“I wish we could have used a BADGE shuttle, it flies faster than my wings.” Gar said.
Krystal said, “Our enemy seems to find us no matter where we land. So far every BADGE shuttle landing has been ambushed and every time we use teleportation, they find us. Our last option is the simplest, just fly.”
“Do you sense anything?” Gar asked.
Krystal closed her eyes and waited a moment. “Yes. That magical sense is growing. It’s still directly ahead. I’m still uncertain it is the Avatar of Magic, but it’s all I got to go on.”
They flew over Japan and came into a low flight near Kyoto. Soon, they were making circles in the sky, with Gar following Krystal. The locals paused and watched the spectacle.
“What are we doing?” Gar asked.
Krystal said, “that sensation, it is here, but it is blurry. I can’t pin it down.”
Gar looked and then said, “I think I can help.” he flew down and landed on an old garden path.
Krystal followed and found that they were standing before a Torii arch. “Ah, the gateway. Do you think it will let us in?”
“I think so.” Gar stepped up and went through the arch, vanishing as he did.
Krystal followed, and they left Kyoto for the private sanctuary of Lord Dragon and Lady Phoenix. As they walked, they found the plants were slightly overgrown, and some withered. The pristine ponds were covered in layers of fallen foliage. It wasn’t the crisp, clean world they had visited before.
“What happened to the gardens?” Gar asked.
Krystal said, “when Lord Dragon and the others left, this place was abandoned. The servants they had here were magical constructs. When he left, they vanished away. No one is taking care of this place any longer.”
“Sad.” Gar commented.
Krystal was about to say something when she stopped both of them. “However, I don’t think we’re alone. There is someone here, I can feel a presence, a strong presence.”
“Do you know who it is?”
“No. Be on your guard just in case.” Krystal formed orbs of magical energy in her hands, while Gar simply made fists.
They cautiously walked through the gardens and into the main throne room. It was dark and had leaves scattered on the floor, blown in from the interior garden.
“Do you see anyone?” Gar whispered.
Krystal shook her head. “No. But, I feel them.”
Suddenly an old man’s voice spoke, “Do not worry, my friends.”
“Who said that?” Gar turned around twice.
A book lifted from the seat of the throne, magical energy bubbling out of it. “It is I, the Master of Magic. I came here to be safe and taste of the ancient wisdom that permeates the very air of this palace. When I sensed your arrival, I assumed my only disguise. But, I know you, Mr. Gargoyle, and you Krystal Fae.”
Gar asked, “how do you know us?”
“Why, you both have been here and been touched by powerful magic within these walls. I know all about it. Such strange times happened here. It is a sad place now, lonely and in need.”
Krystal said, “I understand, and we can talk all about this later. We need to get you to the Station. They have captured all the other avatars, you are all that remains.”
“Then, by all means, let us retreat to a safer place. Though, the barrier that protects this unique location prevents any sort of teleportation.”
Krystal said, “I know. We have to get you away from here, and then we can find a way to the station. Let’s just hope our enemy hasn’t found us yet, they’re good at what they do.”
Delta walked through the holding area where the beasts and avatars were all being kept sedated and restrained. Behind him, in the lab, Arx continued to scream in agony as Dr. Osteen finished his work. There wasn’t even the slightest reaction to the pain of the man being experimented on. Delta even held a tiny glimmer of a smile as he listened to this.
A small device in his pocket buzzed and he pulled it out. For a moment he looked around and then walked into another room, putting that noise behind him. He set the device down and it beamed an image on the wall. Three other people sat at a desk, their faces obscured by shadow.
“Report, Delta!” a craggy woman’s voice barked.
“We have captured five of the six avatars. The experimentation on Arx has provided incredible amounts of data. I am sure we will move to phase three of this plan on schedule.”
A man leaned forward, his face still obscured. “What about the sixth avatar? Why haven’t you captured it yet?”
“There has been a glitch in the plan. While Arx has proven useful, his attitude and ego have provided some issues. We lost a lot of soldiers during the capture of the last two Avatars.”
The woman said, “glitch! We know that they have already secured the last Avatar on the BADGE space station. Retrieving it will prove difficult.”
“Impossible!” the man yelled.
“Not impossible.” Delta coolly answered. “In fact, I already have a plan in motion. It will take a little longer to finish this task, but it will be done according to my plan, I am sure of that.”
“How can you be so certain?” The woman asked.
“Have any of my plans failed yet? You put me in charge of this mission because I am the most capable of tactical thinking. Trust in my skills.”
The man said, “your skills have proven infallible...so far. But, this glitch with Arx could prove too risky. If he messes up again, causes more mayhem where we aren’t prepared for it…”
“His ego is exactly what I’m counting on. He will play his part perfectly, just be ready when I signal.”
“Don’t let us down.” The woman stated, and the signal cut off.
***
Nova waited while the screen on the main monitor activated. Strange Quark and Dr. Stone greeted him from a grassy location in Africa. Between them was a cone-shaped device.
“What have you found?”
Quark kicked the device. “This is the third one of these things we came up with.”
“What is that?”
Stone pried off a panel and moved the camera closer to show the amazing circuitry. “This thing has been sending out false morphon surges. We picked up one in Antarctica and followed the trail to it. When we shut it off, another signal came from Montana. This one replaced that.”
“Decoys.” Nova said.
“Clever decoys. Each one is an amazing piece of work.” Stone leaned over, looking inside. “I haven’t seen tech like this anywhere.”
Quark said, “My guess is that they made these using knowledge our enemy gained from harvesting the Avatar of Tech’s abilities.”
Nova said, “That leaves us with a big problem. We can’t let them lead us around by our noses, and we can’t waste time following shadows.”
Stone slapped the panel closed. “We aren’t doing any good out here. My sensors are going to be fooled, there is just no way to differentiate between these things and the real deal.”
“I agree. Get back to the station.”
“Understood.” Quark said. Before Nova could warn Dr. Stone, both flashed and were suddenly standing next to him.
Dr. Stone wavered, held Nova’s shoulder, and controlled the urge to throw up. “Wow...ugh...that really messed with my head.”
Quark said, “it’s the change in gravity and air pressure. It’s hard on the human system, sorry.”
“Dr. Stone, head back to the labs. Work with our people on ways to perfect the morphon sensors.”
“Sure... after I get a ginger ale.”
Nova led him out of the operations center and toward the mess hall. Gatherings of BADGE soldiers, who were fully armed and covered in body armor, met them. Heroes mingled with them. Some groups were sitting around, chatting and eating. Other groups marched in units. They stationed a few in positions around the area.
“Wow, expecting a visit from the President?” Quark asked.
Nova said, “just precautions. The Avatar of Magic is here and I want to make sure we don’t lose him.”
“Dontcha think this is overkill?” Quark said.
“Every time we’ve encountered those mercenaries of our enemy, they out flank us, out maneuver us, and basically show us up. Not this time.”
“Where is the avatar?”
Nova walked him over to the window that looked out into the arboretum. The Avatar of Magic floated in the middle of a grassy patch with several heroes around it. They were deep in a conversation with the book. Krystal Fae had EB in her lab as they both listened to the vast magical wisdom of this strange book.
Quark said, “it looks safe. I can’t imagine many getting to it here.”
“It’s as secure as we can make it.” Nova said.
Quark almost said something, but frowned when he looked at the expression on Nova’s face. “Something wrong?”
“Yes. This was too easy.”
“What?”
“Gar and Krystal got that Avatar here without any fuss. Not one sign of our enemy.”
Quark laughed, “sounds like you should be happy, considering all the others were a disaster.”
“That’s just it. No one showed up when they went for it. Not one mercenary was even close when they searched. They got it here and still nothing. I expected something to happen. I had every BADGE sensor aimed at the planet, just waiting for any sign of enemy movement. Nothing happened. And that worries me.”
“Why?”
“Our enemy has shown us one thing, they are devoted to their plans. Nothing stops them. Their lack of movement, their inactivity now, everything about this must be part of their plan. We have been behind them by many steps along the way, and that is exactly where we are now. What are they planning? Why did they take the others? Who is behind this? When why they show up next? None of these questions can we answer. We can’t even theorize.”
Quark nodded. “I highly doubt that this is just about giving Arx more powers. Frankly, if I wanted to turn a human into a god, I would choose a better specimen.”
Nova put a fist on the glass, his breath fogging the window. “We have to find them. We have to stop
whatever they’re doing before it’s too late. Thousands have already died because of these people and, frankly, I feel helpless to stop them from doing it again... and that bothers me most.”
Quark said, “don’t worry, Director, we will stop them.”
Chase and Nova rode the lift toward the Operations center. A pair of security personnel stood at attention inside the lift on either side of them.
“What’s your plan?” Chase asked.
“My plan is to be cautious. We may not know the next move of our enemy, but that does not mean we won’t be ready for them.”
The lift stopped and both stepped out. The security guards in the lift remained, as that was their station. Inside the operations center were a dozen more soldiers, all stoically watching.
Chase said, “where did we get all these soldiers?”
“They are a special detachment made up of soldiers from the World Corps.”
Chase frowned, “World Corps? BADGE isn’t part of that organization?”
“No. But, since we’ve saved this world countless times, they owed me a favor. I want to be damn certain if we have an encounter with those mercenaries, I have enough soldiers to keep us and the Avatar of Magic safe.”
“I guess precaution is worth asking for help.” Chase said.
Nova stepped to the middle of the floor. “Which is exactly what I’m going to do now. Robot, activate League HQ Emergency channels.”
The robot at comm pressed several keys and the large monitor lit up with dozens of video feeds from within the various League HQ locations around the world. It also automatically activated the BADGE locations. As the screens became active, people responded.
“Hey, it’s Nova.”
“Oh, guys, BADGE is calling.”
“Oh, crap, right in the middle of our game night... DON’T LOOK AT MY CARDS WHILE I’M AWAY!”
The heroes all jumped to their screens.
Nova waited until he had their silent attention. Finally, he said, “We have a serious situation. A dangerous organization has been attacking and kidnapping the Avatars. Where they will strike next is beyond me. I have the last Avatar protected here on the station. However, that doesn’t preclude that they’ll move on with their plans without it. Thus, I’m sending out locations to all Leagues across the world. You will be assigned a crucial area of the world to protect. Strategic locations that could potentially be a target. World capitals, high security installations, and secret locations known only to a few. These targets would be a terrible loss if they were attacked like Poseidon Island. Be warned, these mercenaries are dangerous and efficient. Arx is far more dangerous than them. Do not let your guard down.”
Legionnaire Solomon asked, “these locations are only a few compared to the many highly populated locations. What if they attack a metropolis that isn’t classified as a strategic location?”
“I’m giving special orders to rogue agents who are not part of Leagues to be on watch in these locations. They won’t engage, but report. Be ready to move. Once the call is given wherever a strike happens, you’ll need to be quick. We don’t have time for more questions, please follow those orders.”
One by one the league channels clicked off, most of the BADGE channels went dark as well. One stayed on with a hero standing in where a BADGE official normally would.
“Uh, Sir, my league is far away. Should I join them?”
“You are the one that has been helping track our enemy. I need your help. I’m sending you to the last known location of an enemy HQ. I have no idea if they’ll be present, but that’s as good a place as any to start the search. And, be forewarned, they still have countless merc thugs working for them, so you’ll have to watch your back.”
“I enjoy punching those morons.”
Nova says, “just don’t engage with their special forces or with Arx.”
“Understood.”
Once the screens were all off, Chase asked, “will this be enough?”
“I hope so. We are doing what we can with what little we know.”
***
Delta quietly watched the sedated Master of Strength from outside the cage he was in. He tapped a control panel and checked the vital signs.
“Impressive. So powerful, even in this state.”
Just then Dr. Osteen walked up to him. “Sir, it’s about time to wake him.”
Delta gained a wicked little smile. “Did you harvest all the data you needed?”
“Yes. Once the experiment was over, I had the data. I know what I need to about infusing the powers into the body. He is so strong now, it scares me to even think about what we’ve done to him.”
“His power is terrifying, and that's what I'm counting on for my next move.”
“But, if he loses control again after we wake him, it’ll be so hard to stop him. I don’t need him awake to continue the experiment. Once we have the last avatar, I can simply infuse that power, glean the data, and then we can terminate him.”
Delta shook his head, “no. I want him awake, now.”
“Your choice.” Osteen led him back into the lab.
Arx, naked to the world, lay strapped on the table where they had been forcing those powers into his body. The moment Delta entered the room, the team of mercenaries joined them with those anti-morphon weapons at the ready.
Osteen flicked several switches. “Activating sensors, charging monitors. I have the detention beams ready.” Devices moved and positioned themselves all around Arx. Lights focused on him, creating a powerful glare on his silver body. “Now to wake him.”
“I’m already awake.” Arx said, which caused Osteen to jump back and the soldiers to tighten their grips on their guns.
Delta chuckled. “I wondered if we could sedate you with the amount of power we have placed in you now. It must feel fantastic.”
Arx lay there, his eyes still closed. “It scares me to know what lives in my blood. The power in me is… incredible.”
“You sound wiser.” Delta commented.
Arx opened his eyes and smiled. “I guess that was a gift from the supernatural power in me. But, really, I just had time to consider what I’m going to do. I had time to realize I’m beyond you now. You don’t control me. I was your toy to play with, now I’m your god to fear.”
“You’re still just another pretty Hollywood face with a big ego.” Delta coolly replied.
Arx slowly sat up. “Don’t be so foolish. You forget, I can read minds now.”
“You can’t read mine.” Delta calmly answered.
“No, I can’t. But, I can read theirs. These soldiers may seem emotionless and fearless, but I know what makes them scared. Osteen fears me, they fear me, and that means you must fear me well.”
“I’m not scared of you. Get off that table, go back to your quarters, get dressed, and wait for my orders.”
Arx laughed, “your orders! I follow no one any longer. I’m ARX, legend of Hollywood, and now the most powerful human alive. I’ll give my own orders. If you don’t like it, tough.”
The soldiers charged their weapons. Delta said, “stop being a fool. Listen to…”
Arx lifted his arm and the guns all fell apart. “I had time to realize something. I have the power over tech, those guns mean nothing to me!” The restraining beams activated on the devices, but they moved away and restrained both Osteen and Delta. “More tech. Geese, you guys called me stupid.”
“Get him!” Delta ordered.
The soldiers all took one step and then were flattened against the walls by a wave of psionic energy.
“You have no power over me. I’m a god and the world will bask in my glory once again.”
“You betrayed the world. They hate you.”
Arx got down from the table and came nose to nose with Delta. “I’ll make them want me. If I can’t have their fandom, I’ll have their fear.”
There came a blinding flash, and the lab exploded. Arx flew straight up, through a hole in the ceiling, vanishing into the sky.
“We are back with the One Hundred and Fifth annual Academy Awards.” The announcer said as the gathered celebrities applauded. “And here to speak is Director Benjamin Mastrovito.”
A tuxedo clad B.S. Mastrovito walked out as he waved to the A-listers. “Thank you, thank you.” He stepped up to the mic. “As you know, this past year we began production on the latest Arx movie.” A murmuring came with that mention. “I know. We were all stunned when our beloved Arx turned against the heroes of Earth. We’re thankful that the genuine heroes of this world worked together and defeated him before he could do any real harm. We wanted to thank BADGE and their heroes for taking down Arx. Trust me, world, Arx does not represent the true nature of this industry. We respect honor and goodness, not selfish arrogance. At this time, I would like to take a moment and make the official announcement on who will replace the role of Arx in the movie.”
Suddenly, a giant H crashed through the ceiling and killed Benjamin Mastrovito. People screamed and raced away from the stage. The doors of the room sealed on their own and no one could open them.
Where this H had crashed through the ceiling, Arx came flying down. He wore nothing but a pair of royal purple briefs and a glimmering smile. The room fell silent as the trapped celebrities watched him take the stage.
“What, no applause?” He stepped onto the stage and pointed at the tables. “SIT!”
The people had no other choice. They timidly returned to their seats.
Arx smiled, “now, let’s go on with the show, shall we?” He waved his hands and the cameras worked on their own, his control over tech empowering them. “I think it’s time to get some things straight. First, the role of Arx cannot be recast. I AM ARX! The next movie will come out and everyone will go see it. Second, it’s time this town learns to respect me. I’m no longer just another actor, I’m a god. Every studio will bow to my whims, every media outlet will obey. I’ll be the biggest celebrity this industry has ever produced.” He smiled at a pretty actress near the stage. “For now, I desire a harem of the best. I’ll provide a list of names. Those women will come to me and give into my desires. Everyone else, you’ll bring me your awards and your money as tribute. You will worship me and...”
An older man said, “you’ll not get away with this. BADGE will stop you, they did it before!”
An invisible force yanked the poor man out of his seat, and he flew across the room. His neck met Arx’s hand. He gagged as Arx said, “BADGE hasn’t been able to stop me yet. Who are you to threaten me?” He looked down and the golden statue on the table came to him. He read it, “a film editor. I’d expect such balls from a producer or exec.” The gagging stopped when the man’s neck snapped. The old man fell on the stage, dead. People in the room gasped at the sight of his limp body.
Arx laughed and rose into the air. He held out his hands, and the cameras lifted and hovered around him. “Alright, heroes of the world, just try to stop me. It’s your funeral. I don’t expect anyone, even BADGE, to dare touch me. If you want to try, I’ll be on the Hollywood sign, where these bozos will bring their tributes.”
He flew straight up, blasting another hole in the ceiling. The cameras crashed to the ground, and a general wave of silent fear permeated the room.
***
Nova fumed as he watched the spectacle on the screens before him. Dozens of media outlets displayed the sickening display of Arx lounging on the Hollywood sign, with a broken H, while lines of people fed into piles of stuff for him.
A man spoke on the news, “this is the continuing scene in Los Angeles. Arx, a villain once thought dead, now controls the city and it’s population. Strange forces of nature prevent any military movement. It seems the once Box Office hero has become even more powerful as a villain. Earlier at the academy awards…” The screen suddenly changed as Arx used his powers to force the flying media drones to get closer.
He smiled at the cameras and ran his hand down his body. “Enjoy the view, my public. I am the perfection you can never have! Adore me!” He grabbed a handful of grapes and shoved them in his mouth as he let the drones fly away.
Chase came into the room. “Sir, we have made certain that the civilians within a hundred-mile radius of L.A. have been evacuated.”
“Good.”
She said, “the problem now is… we can’t get anyone inside L.A. to protect the civilians there. His powers are too strong. Nature bends to his will, I don’t know what we can do.”
Just then, EB zipped into the room and stood in front of Nova. “Let me at ‘em. I’m get that silver jerk the egging of his life. He thinks he’s got powers, he ain’t nothing compared to a mythic!” He hopped around, shadowboxing.
Nova answered, “No. I need you here to monitor Magic.”
EB stopped, “really?”
“Yes. Arx is dangerous, but he has one vulnerability, his ego. He has challenged us, and that means we can get to him if we meet his challenge.”
Chase asked, “what if it’s a trap.”
Nova picked up his Emergency Comm Unit. “Arx is many things now, but clever isn’t one of them. No, he wants the challenge merely to prove his superiority. He believes he is unstoppable and that will be his biggest flaw. He has given us an opening, and he doesn’t expect us to take the bait, but we will, and that will truly surprise him. Now, get to the shuttles. I want the heroes on the station moved down to the planet and ready to strike. EB, go to the Arboretum, you’re in charge of making sure Magic remains here and safe.”
“Aye, aye, buddy, come rain, sleet, mercs, or bad actors, I’ll not be stopped.” He gave a quick salute and zipped away.
Nova clicked on his special comm unit. “Nova to all Leagues and rogue heroes, we have a situation in Hollywood. Arx has challenged us, go meet his challenge, and do not fail. Use all opportunities to save civilians once you are inside the L.A. perimeter. Arx must be stopped! MOVE!”
A group of Japanese tourists screamed and ran down the street, beams of energy following them. The road exploded, sending asphalt raining down over everything. The tourists barely made it to a side street before the explosion consumed them.
“HELP!” the tour guide yelled over the explosions.
Heroes darted all over the city, battling a single figure that dashed around, toying with them in the skies. Often, stray beams of energy, or bolts of plasma, would miss the intended target and blow a hole in a building or the street below.
Suddenly, Arx landed in the middle of the wrecked street and smiled at the tourists with that insane, glimmering grin. He lifted his hands, and the ground began to shake violently.
“JISHIN!” The Japanese tourists yelled.
Something slammed into Arx and sent him flying back. A strange-looking man with blades on his hands had body slammed the villain.
“Oh, crap! I FOUND MORE OF EM!” the hero called out and ran over to the huddled group. “Don’t be so scared. I’m a hero. Pain-guin is the name, I will... OOF!”
A blast of yellow light hit him and Arx came flying by, pouring out his power at this hero.
Another hero landed near the group, a man with a metal arm and white wings. “Over here!” Solomon called out.
Magnificent Punlork appeared on a tour bus. He slapped the side, and the door opened. “Get in!”
“HE’S COMING!” Hotwings yelled as he swooped by.
Arx came blasting down the street again, his eyes set on the bus. This entire battle he has been selectively targeting their efforts to get the civilians out of danger. However, just before he got to the bus, The Avenger, Slayer B.A.S., and The Gentleman met him and shoved him back.
“Get in, hurry!” Punlork shoved an old lady in last and then slammed the door. “Hold your hats!” He slapped his hands on the side of the bus and it vanished with him.
Arx laughed and stopped just long enough to allow several heroes to get closer. Opening his hands, he sent a wave of psionic energy. Many heroes were thrown away, a few went down with massive headaches.
WhiPs darted up through the falling heroes, her large metal claws buzzing with electricity. Arx smiled at her. His grin always set to flirt. He dodged her first swipe and then caught her claws with his hands, the blades not penetrating.
“Nice try, sweetheart.” He twisted around and threw her.
Lumpsum caught her mid fall as he flew at Arx. With a good pitch, he sent the bladed hero back at Arx as he, too, went for her. Hotwings joined them with Midgardsomr stomping through the streets. Arx met hero after hero with punches and kicks, blasted several with mental attacks, and blinded one with a divine orb of light. When Midgardsomr got to him, Arx backed off, landing on a building. The giant world eater serpent bore down on him just as the skies twisted into a storm. A catastrophic gathering of lightning bolts hit the serpent in the face and actually threw him back.
“WHAT AREN’T YOU GETTING? I. AM. A. GOD!” Arx bellowed in glee.
Krystal Fae snatched a child off the streets and sent her by portal to a safe place. She dodged an explosion by flying up to a rooftop. WhiPs crashed into the rooftop next to Krystal.
“Whips!”
The bladed hero pulled herself up. “This guy is too much. I thought Jinn was bad, but... nothing even touches him. Did you see what he did to Midgard?”
“Yes. His power level is something I haven’t felt before. I don’t know how we’re going to stop him.” Krystal suddenly waved her hand and portalled a falling hero safely to the ground.
Whips charged her claws again. “We can’t stop. That jerk needs to go down.”
“Wait. I think I sense something…” Krystal watched Arx fight hero after hero in the sky.
Whips frowned, “well? Don’t keep it to yourself.”
“He can match anything we throw at him. He nullified our strengths.”
“Great, just what we didn’t need to hear.” Whips said.
Krystal shook her head. “It is what I don’t feel that is important. Magic. He is demonstrating strength, tech, elemental, supernatural, and even mental powers. But, he hasn’t once used a magic attack.”
Whips said, “they never got their hands on the Avatar of Magic… maybe that’s why?”
Krystal gasped, “That’s it!” She clicked on her comm. “Heroes with magic powers… stop saving civilians and go after Arx. Everyone else, keep distracting him and saving people, but let the magic users focus on him.” Krystal looked at Whips, “you help with the rescue efforts, I have to lead this attack.”
“Gotcha!”
***
Nova watched the battle from the drones hovering over the city. Now that Arx was occupied, their drones weren’t being shot out of the sky.
“This is out of control.” He muttered.
Justin stepped up with a tablet in his hands. “Sir, listen to this…” he played the communication that Krystal just sent to all the heroes.
Nova actually cracked a smile, “so, they found a weak spot.”
“Will it be enough?”
“We can only hope. Go, check on EB and Magic. See how they’re doing.”
Justin left Nova to his silent observing. Moments after Justin left the Operations center, the elevator opened and five soldiers stepped out.
“Everything okay?” Nova asked.
“Everything is fine, sir. Just reassignments.” The leader stated, and the men took up positions around the room.
***
EB darted around the Arboretum, zooming by trees, through the legs of several of these special soldiers, and then back to the Avatar of Magic. The old book floated in the air, always aglow.
“No sign of evildoers.”
The book tilted toward him. “Nothing has changed since you checked two minutes ago. I believe we are safe.”
“One can never be too cautious.” EB spoke with a lowered, gravely voice.
The book chortled, “you are the amusing one. Merlin was right about you.”
EB flopped on the ground, laying on his belly, kicking his legs as he put his chin in his paws. “Merlin talked about little me?”
“Why, of course he did. That human was most curious about magical things. You fascinated him. He wrote about you, or what he assumed about you. I have all his thoughts in my pages right here.”
EB snapped his fingers, and an enormous egg appeared. He peeled it open to reveal a pile of caramel popcorn. “Tell me what he wrote about me.” He crunched a mouthful of popcorn.
“Master Merlin believed you were some kind of spirit from another world. He wasn’t certain if you were good or bad, but believed you were good. It was his opinion that you were a protector of children, possibly a forest guardian too.”
EB’s eyes twinkled. “He really thought all that about me? So amazing. What else, what else?”
Justin walked up at that moment. “Uh, EB, Master Avatar… everything okay?” there was a serious concern in his voice.
EB said, “everything is hunky dory. This outstanding book is telling me all about what Merlin thought about me. He got stuff wrong, but he really thought I was nice and all. It is so cool that I made that kind of impression on someone as smart and good and neat as Merlin. I know, millions of people have loved me for a long time, but to have someone like him talk about me is flattering. Its like watching one of those silly Easter movies about me. Some are cool. There was this one about an Easter Bunny that leaves home to become a rock star and played drums and met celebrities and I loved it and…”
“EB!” Justin interrupted him.
“Sorry. You want some?” He held up the popcorn filled egg.
“No, thanks. I was just concerned.”
“Why? I found nothing unusual. Been patrolling all day.”
Justin motioned around. “There are three times as many guards here as when I last checked in.”
EB looked around and shook his head, “I thought Nova told them to come.”
“He has changed no orders.”
“Oh... guess they’re just doing their job. Come on, sit, lets hear this story about me.” EB patted the grass next to him.
Arx jockeyed between buildings, toying with the heroes that chased him. He dove under an overpass and then set his eyes on an incoming hero. The Wizard cast a massive beam of magic at Arx. He deftly avoided it and met the magical hero with a powerful punch to the gut. The Wizard crashed into the side of a building.
“Now, where are those civilians hiding?” Arx looked around, completely ignoring the many magical heroes flying toward him.
Krystal Fae and Aphrael flew side by side, dozens of heroes behind them. Krystal pointed to the side, and Aphrael nodded. They split, dividing the heroes and going for a pincer attack. Arx seemed to either not notice or not care as he hovered, examining the streets below. Just when they were almost on him, he looked up with that gleaming smile of his.
“Nice try.” He clapped his hands together and then threw them out. A vortex of twisting winds spun around so hard that several billboards were instantly ripped from their stations and tossed into the gale. The magical heroes struggled against this attack as Arx casually left them in the tornado.
He flew fast toward four school buses being escorted by heroes. “Aw, don’t take my audience away.” Swooping down, he ripped the tops off of two buses and threw the tattered yellow metal at the heroes. However, when he turned to bask in the fear of the civilians, he found empty seats. “What the H…”
A giant fist nailed him, and he smashed into a street. Midgard reached up, balled both fists together and came down with a hard crash. Arx was smashed deep into the pavement, a crater forming that threatened the foundation of several nearby buildings.
“TAKE THAT YOU POMPOUS ASS!” Midgard bellowed, his hands still holding Arx down in what was hopefully his grave.
Hotwings came flying over and laughed, “I knew he couldn’t resist scaring civilians.”
The hero, Chains, rushed over with his wife, Whips. “Got em?”
Midgard laughed, “NOTHING BUT A SILVER SPLATTER UNDER…” Midgard lurched forward, a strange look of surprise on his face.
All the heroes gasped and stepped back. Suddenly, Midgard’s fists lifted against his will, and then he was yanked forward. Arx, holding Midgard, met the massive serpent with a fist to the jaw, and then belched out an incredible torrent of flames that sent the World Serpent crashing backward.
The heroes were so stunned by this that it took them a moment to realize the battle was far from over. Arx, more insane than ever, screamed and wave after wave of psionic energy exploded, sending all the heroes crashing into buildings, the street, and through windows.
Midgard pushed himself up just in time for Arx to push his hands forward and cause their school buses to shatter. Their little decoy turned into a cloud of mechanical parts. This formed into giant cuffs that wrapped around Midgard’s neck, arms, and tail. It forced him to the ground, held in place by this newly crafted restraint.
Arx rose into the air, his body glowing, his face contorted into a ferocious snarl. “We were just playing before! Now, it’s time…” A multicolored magical blast hit Arx, and it threw him clear out of the city.
Aphrael landed with Krystal Fae and several other magical heroes. Krystal said, “excellent shot.”
Midgard roared as he tore the restraints away. “WHERE’S THAT PIECE OF CRAP!?”
Aphrael said, “with any luck, sinking into the Pacific. That was one hell of a blast we just hit him with.”
Krystal pulled out her comm. “BADGE... BADGE come in…” she looked to the others, “that’s odd. I’m not getting a signal.”
“WATCH OUT!” Hotwings sped by.
Suddenly, bodies of Navy sailors rained down, all dead. A series of shadows that fell over them followed this. All looked up to see a fleet of powerful US Navy ships flying in the air. A battlecruiser suddenly fell, heading right for them. Midgard caught it and spent a moment struggling with it so that it didn’t fall and crush several city blocks. With a massive grunt, he lobbed it back into the air. It flew for a moment and then stopped and rejoined the fleet.
Arx appeared, hovering in the middle of this armada. Energy crawled all over his body and then flickered over the metal hulls of the ships. “ENOUGH PLAYTIME, HEROES! IF THIS CITY DOESN’T WANT ME, THEN THIS CITY WILL FALL. AND YOU, SECOND RATE HACKS, WILL FALL WITH IT!” He thrust a hand forward and an aircraft carrier hit the ground and plowed three blocks down Santa Monica Boulevard.
The heroes scrambled to stop him and the ships he was throwing at the city.
Krystal stopped Furious Squirrel. “Can you get BADGE? My comm isn’t working.”
Furious checked his special tech. “The signal is working, BADGE just isn’t responding. Weird.”
“I guess we’re on our own, I...what?”
Furious showed her his sensors. “I’m detecting nuclear activation.”
“What does that mean exactly?”
Furious looked at his sensors and then pointed at one of the Navy ships. “The nuclear weapons on that ship have been activated, and since the sailors on those ships are no longer alive, my guess is that…”
Krystal finished the thought. “Arx is truly going to raze Southern California.”
***
The screens at BADGE were nothing but static fuzz. Nova tapped his comm device and looked back at the robots. “What is going on? Why have we lost signal?”
There was a dead silence from the robots.
“Unit 100232...10915?” he tapped the side of a robot and it flopped forward, inactive. “Complete shutdown, but I didn’t authorize that. Damn, this is no time for our systems to crash.” He shoved the robot up and pressed the comm button, but it merely buzzed at him. “Soldier, come over here, I need assistance.”
The soldiers in the room were completely still.
Nova slowly stood up from the console and took a step back. He quietly assessed the men around him and then turned to those fuzz filled screens, his back to the soldiers. “So… this isn’t a simple computer malfunction.”
The soldiers lifted their guns.
Nova held the tiniest of smiles on the corner of his mouth. “Trust me, you don’t want to do that.”
Heroes flew around the flying armada. Gales of wind blew some heroes around while weapons fired madly off the decks of the ships. Blasts of holy light and mental energy crippled heroes who attempted to approach the center of this storm, Arx.
Hotwings and Warmachine flew toward Arx, both blasting a volley of power at the villain. Arx dodged and responded with amazing speed.
“Distract him!” Warmachine said and then split from Hotwings.
Hotwings doubled his weapons fire and focused his powers on Arx. It worked, Arx turned his attention away and shot Hotwings out of the sky.
Suddenly, Warmachine crashed into Arx and started punching him. Arx responded with blows and kicks. Then time slowed down slightly as Warmachine used one of his unique powers. Arx barely moved as Warmachine repeatedly nailed him in the gut and face. All at once, Arx broke the time dilation and hit Warmachine in the face and then grabbed him by the arm and flung him off of him with a massive swing.
Gar swooped by and quickly snatched Warmachine out of his freefall. Landing on a nearby roof, Gar set Warmachine on his feet.
“You okay?”
Warmachine nodded, “sure. Just...winded.”
Punlork appeared and tumbled across the same roof. “Ow!” Sitting up, he said, “this is getting out of hand.”
“Hey, Gar!” Chase spoke into his ear through the comm link.
“What?”
“Furious Squirrel has pin-pointed a nuclear device that is activated on the ship directly in front of you.”
“I don’t know how to deactivate a bomb.”
“We need ideas.” Chase said.
Punlork said, “what about slowing time? It worked for Warmachine...briefly.”
Warmachine answered, “no. He can break through that somehow. Timebender had the same problem.”
Gar watched ahead as Arx hovered between his flying fleet. The ships showered the heroes with weapons fire, and Arx added blasts of his various powers. No one was getting close. Suddenly, Midgard rose and threw a water tower at Arx, which was destroyed by a blast of light from the enemy.
“Hey, what about Midgard? Have him throw that boat out to sea or something.” Gar said.
Midgard yelled through the comms. “I DON’T CARE ABOUT PUNY HUMAN WEAPONS, I WILL SQUISH ARX WITH MY BARE HANDS!!”
Chase said, “Midgard, a nuke isn’t puny.”
“I DON’T CARE!!” Midgard bellowed and then rushed toward Arx.
Gar said to Chase, “what about teleporting it?”
Now Starmaster answered from another part of the battle, “I don’t think that’s a good idea…” he grunted and yelled at something and then finished, “teleporting can mess with stuff like that. It could blow across the portal, which would spread that explosion, not to mention the fallout.”
Just then Skynett landed next to Gar. “What if we retreat? This city has already taken a beating, but all the civilians are gone.”
Chase answered, “that bomb is under his control. We leave, he turns it off and follows us. Or he might even detonate it over another city.”
Skynett dryly said, “then we take down Arx and release his control of it.”
“How?” Gar asked.
Skynett squinted as she watched Midgard go after Arx. “we wait for an opening and then unleash hell.”
Gar frowned at that, not really certain what she was saying, but Chase got it. Through the comm, she said, “heroes, regroup and ready for a power-strike. This is a code black attack. Noone hold back. Wait for my signal.”
All over the city, heroes rushed to a circular line around the incoming navy ships. Several heroes formed energy barriers that prevented the ongoing weapons’ fire from hurting anyone. Only Midgard remained in his attack, as he often ignored any orders during a battle. Heroes charged their eyes, hands, and other powered appendages. Others activated guns, lasers, and tech. Gar joined the many who picked up objects to throw. A code black was not called on often, and could only be done during extreme circumstances.
Gar said, “Chase, what about Midgard?”
“He is part of the plan, just wait.”
“Chase… this could hurt you.”
Skelanimal came through, “Gah! Would you two lovebirds stop the mushy stuff!”
Gar said, “We aren’t…”
Chase yelled, “NOW!”
Midgard had grabbed a smaller navy cruiser and used it like a bat to smack Arx. The silver hero was sent flying through the city, his fleet slowly losing elevation while he tumbled out of control. When he came to a stop, he barely had time to check his head when the barriers came down. Several thousand attacks all came at him in one volley. Bullets, knives, boulders, and some thrown cars joined lasers, fire blasts, ice beams, and electric shocks. He tried to respond, but the sheer power culminated in one explosive blast.
Normally, a collective code black attack would cause a deadly explosion that could hurt, or even kill, some users. In this attack, it seemed to be absorbed by Arx, but not on purpose. His body shimmered in an array of colors, and there was an immense explosion of energies out of him. He flew back, punching a hole in the lower hull of the USS Saratoga. The fleet in the sky rained down over the city. Huge navy cruisers crashed and crushed two thirds of what remained of Hollywood.
Heroes dashed out of the way as waves of dust and debris erupted all over the place. Many flight heroes were carrying non-flight heroes to keep them from being overtaken by the catastrophic collapse.
Gar landed with Chase in his arms. He gingerly set her down among the wreckage of the mangled navy ships.
“I can’t believe you survived that.” Chase said.
Arx, half covered in metal debris, gagged out a laugh. “It’ll take a lot more than that to end this superstar.”
She held up her scanner. “Your power levels are laughable. Oh, and your little bomb threat; I guess crashing the ship shut off the computer running it. So, you’re done.”
Arx chuckled with a wet cough. “You think I’m going out like this? No, Arx won’t be remembered as the celebrity who was defeated, he’ll be remembered as the greatest villain in movie history. I’ll have the last laugh.” His eyes flashed.
“What did you just do?” Chase threatened him with one of her blades. However, he merely continued to mock her with laughter.
Warmachine and Furious Squirrel appeared on top of the debris above them. Furious said, “that nuke, it just went active again! It’s got seconds.”
Arx said, “see, I’m going out with a bang, and taking you with me.”
Chase yelled into her comm, “GET TO THAT NUKE!”
Heroes rushed over, following the tech specialists toward the mound of wreckage where the nuclear signal came from. Midgard and other heroes tore through the piles of debris, throwing large chunks of ships all over the city.
“We can’t get to it fast enough!” Furious said, as he watched his monitor.
Punlork said, “I can’t portal people away fast enough either.”
Warmachine said, “I’ll get to it!” He dove headfirst into the debris, blasting a path to the bomb with his powers.
Furious yelled, “IT’S DETONATING!!” Everyone flinched. Several zapped themselves away.
Nothing happened.
Cautiously looking up, Chase asked, “was it a dud?”
Warmachine spoke through the universal comm. “No, it’s going off, and I can’t stop it.”
“Where are you?” Chase looked around.
“Down here, under the rubble.”
Starmaster snapped his fingers and vanished. He reappeared next to Warmachine, who held the side of a nuclear missile, it was beeping and flashing, but everything was slowed to a near crawl.
“What did you do?”
Warmachine smiled, “I got to it just as it exploded, but I could slow the time.”
“Good, we can…”
“It’s too late. I’m slowing the flash point, but it moves so fast that it’ll over take me in moments and then will continue in normal time. If I move, it will explode instantly. I...I can’t save myself.”
“We have to try.” Starmaster said, looking around for the answer.
Warmachine shook his head, “no. But...we have a chance. Portal me away.”
“Portaling might not work.”
“It will. We have a few seconds. The portal won’t set off the bomb, that has already occurred. You get me somewhere, in another dimension, where it won’t hurt anyone else.”
“But, you’ll die.”
Warmachine nodded slowly, “the risk of being a hero. We don’t have time for sentimentality. Just do it.”
Starmaster had tears in his eyes as he waved his hands and watched both the missile and Warmachine vanished away.
A small fleet of BADGE shuttles broke through the atmosphere, heading directly for the space station. Inside the lead shuttle, Chase and Gar watched over their prisoner. Arx sat in the back, in nothing but his purple thong and the most sophisticated restraint system developed to hold meta-humans.
“Are you sure he’s different now?” Gar asked.
“I’ve looked over the readings a hundred times since the battle ended. His power levels are almost negligible. Even with all the powers he had, nothing can reduce this signature artificially. He’s nothing but a has-been.”
“HEY! Watch the language. I’m just… on hiatus.” Arx responded.
Chase laughed, “sure. Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll be the star of the prison’s playhouse. Trust me, you’ll have a captive audience.”
Arx slouched back in his seat, “great, stuck with a D-grade comedienne.”
Chase was about to tell him where to stuff his opinion when the pilot alerted them. “Agent Chase!”
She looked out the window and gasped, clasping her hands over her mouth. The top level of the station, where Operations was situated, had been removed and floated aimlessly in space while the rest of the station remained in its normal orbit.
“What the hell is going on?” Chase asked.
“I don’t know, but I am not reading any power signature in the station at all.”
Gar started to say, “Can we dock, I…” he and Chase were surrounded by a blinding flash of light and they found themselves standing in the Operations center.
Chase stumbled and fell against Gar. “Whoa, that made my head spin.”
Quark rushed up to them. “Sorry about that. I needed you guys.”
“What happened here?” Chase looked around. The robots were all damaged, and only two emergency lights were flickering.
Gar gasped and rushed away, “Director!” He found Nova lying on the floor, a giant sword in his hands, two dozen security guards around him.
Chase ran to his side. “is he…”
Quark said, “thank goodness, no. He isn’t dead, just out. But, this station won’t activate while separated. It requires his code, or three class one agent codes.”
Chase said, “that would be us.”
Chase, Quark and Gar put in their security codes and the top level of the station activated and reconnected with the base. The computer slowly reactivated, going into emergency operation mode.
“That should set up the reboot.” Chase said.
“We need to get him to the infirmary, and hope someone is still alive down there.” Quark said.
“Do what you do best.” Chase answered.
Quark put his hands on Nova, and the others waited. All four flashed away and were quickly inside the infirmary. Chase fell over and held her head for a moment. Gar lifted Nova up onto the nearest bio-bed.
“No damage here.” Quark commented.
“GET OUT, I HAVE WEAPONS!” a woman called out.
Gar said, “Dr. Henderson, it’s us!”
Dr. Henderson slowly came around a corner, two laser scalpels in her hands. She had a wild look of fear in her eyes, but slowly relaxed at the sight of them. “Oh, thank god. I thought we were going to die out here.”
Chase asked, “how do you still have power?”
“The infirmary has independent power systems. Oh, dear lord, Nova!” She ran over to him and punched buttons on the sensors.
Quark said, “I found him like this. I would try to heal him, but I might accidentally turn him into a duck.”
Dr. Henderson read the scanner report. “He has a massive concussion, five broken ribs, a broken arm, internal bleeding...how did he survive that fight in this condition?”
“Do you know what happened up here?” Chase asked.
Dr. Henderson placed several bone mending devices on Nova’s chest and then injected something into his neck. “Not exactly. The entire station went on lockdown. I tried contacting Operations, but I couldn’t get through...entirely. The visual link worked, but audio was dead. I could witness what happened there, but I couldn’t do anything. Fortunately, the infirmary also has a special locking system to protect the patients from enemies. I was safe in here.”
Gar activated a monitor on Dr. Henderson’s desk and accessed the data. A video played back what she watched in operations. “Who are they?”
Chase and Quark joined him and watched the security team ganging up on Nova, who had his back to them. Quark said, “those are the special security team Nova requested from the World Corps to help defend the station.”
Before they could discuss this, they watched Nova materialize a special sword out of seemingly nowhere and catch the enemy off guard. He swung and dodged with incredible precision. They fired lasers at him from all angles, but he deflected them with his sword and hit the soldiers with their own fire. More than once they hit him, but he kept fighting. Soldier after soldier he fought, striking and moving with a speed that none of them have truly seen him utilize. Again and again he was hit, but he never wavered in his defense. Computer stations exploded, the lights in the room flickered, a warning light beamed as the emergency separation system activated. The last soldier went down, and Nova fell to his knees. The moment he collapsed, the operations center ejected and the line cut.
Chase said, “damn...I didn’t know he could fight like that.”
Quark looked back at the unconscious Director. “I've seen him fight like that once before, when we faced Jinn.”
Gar asked, “wait, what about the Avatar of Magic?”
Dr. Henderson said, “I don’t know. Last I heard the Avatar was being protected in the Arboretum, EB was with it.”
Quark snarled, “and about five dozen of those mercs.”
“Crap.” Chase muttered and raced out of the infirmary.
***
Chase, Gar, and Quark rushed through the station. The power was slowly coming back on, but it was still dark in most places. They rushed through the Mess Hall and into the Arboretum.
“Oh, my god!” Chase came to a stop at the sight. Dozens of soldiers littered the ground, some wearing the BADGE insignia, and some had the World Corps patch. Colorful, broken eggshells littered the ground.
Gar whispered, “what happened?”
Chase knelt down and looked at a fallen soldier. “Isn’t it obvious, this is where they fought to capture the Avatar.” She looked up at Quark. “Do you sense the avatar?”
Quark closed his eyes and spent a moment in silence. He opened them and slowly shook his head. “I don’t sense the Avatar… or EB.”
“What?” Gar asked.
A man coughed and caught their attention. Looking over, one BADGE soldier leaned up against the trunk of a tree, blood trickling out of the corner of his mouth.
Chase rushed to him. “Oh, god. Hold still. Gar, get help.”
Gar raced off while Chase helped the man.
He looked at her with tired eyes. “I’m sorry, ma’am, we tried our best.”
“What happened?”
“They...they turned on us. I don’t know where they got their weapons, but they fought against the Avatar with tech I ain’t ever seen before. The Easter Bunny was amazing. He was the last to go down. They trapped them both in some kind of energy restraint. I watched them leave. I couldn’t do anything to stop them. I can’t feel my legs.”
Just then Gar returned with two training droids, which were carrying a stretcher. He helped place the man on it.
Chase said, “you did what you could. You didn’t fail, they tricked us.” She nodded to the droids, and they carried him away.
Quark asked, “what now?”
“I don’t know. But, we aren’t done yet. They have won this battle, but the war...this war is far from over.”
A beautiful blue woman walked along a road in the middle of a busy city. The blazing sun cast a deep shadow beneath her, and the breezes were a mix of salty air and dry sand. None of this seemed to cause this strange woman any discomfort. She continued on her walk, the red hair dancing as the winds picked up.
“Hey, lady. You want to get out of the street!” A motorist yelled at her in Arabic.
She turned and slowly cocked her head at the man waiting for her to pass. “How dare you speak to the Master of Mental, little human.” her mind said to him.
He gasped, “I heard that… in my head. What are you?”
She waved her hand as a blast of psychic energy shoved his car back, sliding it sideways and nearly tumbling it over. “Be gone!”
Almost immediately, sirens blared and police cars were heading her way. She cast her eyes around and dismissively sighed. Holding out her hands, she lifted into the sky and flew five stories above the ground. People were concerned, and the police sent a few cars to follow.
Soon she landed in the middle of an excavation site. She knelt down and felt the ground. Suddenly a wave of red energy blasted out and covered all the surfaces for a moment.
“What are you doing?” A man rushed up to her.
She looked at him with a brief smile. Through her mind she said, “Ah, a man of learning.”
“Woah, where did that voice come from?” He looked around.
She cocked her head at him, “tell me, is this the famous Library?”
He searched for the source of that voice in his head. “Uh, yeah. This was a storage area for the Library of Alexandria. It was destroyed about eighteen hundred years ago.”
She softly shook her head, “then, this is before our time. Pity, it made such sense.” Without warning, she flew straight up, away from the ancient excavation site.
Hovering several miles in the sky, she called out with her mind. “I did not locate the Keeper. My search was in vain.”
_
In a distant museum, long after hours of operation, the winged figure of the Master of Supernatural
stopped and looked up at a painting. He studied it for a moment, focusing on the book in the hands of a person.
He spoke aloud, answering that voice in his head. “I too have failed to find the Keeper. Evidence of its existence has proven impossible to find.”
_
The Master of Strength fought two heroes at once in the Tokyo Fight Club. He grabbed both and bashed their heads together. Dropping the unconscious bodies on the ground, he paused and looked up.
“The Keeper may not be formed yet. Have you not considered this?” The lion man suddenly twisted around and kicked a third hero that was trying a surprise attack.
The voice in his head from the Master of Mental said, “no. I have sensed its presence since I awoke. It came to be before us. It has been granting us life. We must find it.”
_
A rush of a wave crashed against the Hawaii shore. The water formed into a man and continued walking toward a lava flow. Once it reached the lava, the water exploded into steam and the lava then took on
the same human form.
The Master of Elemental looked at his liquid rock hand and smiled. Then he looked up at the night sky and closed his molten eyes. “I sense the surge of morphon. The power grows steadily within the realm of nature. The Keeper will be with us soon.”
The voice in his head said, “How can you be sure of this?”
“I know what I know. This Keeper, this last Avatar of the Morphons, will reveal itself when the moon is the fullest. Only then shall we see them in their true form.”
The voice spoke, “then, we must be ready for its arrival. Protect it from those who wish to use it for harm.”
The Master of Supernatural said, “Where would be safe? How could we know where it will reveal itself?”
That voice said, “I do not have the answer.”
_
“But, I do.” A pile of computer parts and other debris shifted around in a room within the concrete walls of a strange cell. The pieces came together and slowly formed into a humanoid figure.
The voice spoke to him, “Master of Tech, we have not heard from you.”
“They have given me a home with friends. I believe I am their captive, but I do not feel bad. These people mean well. I have enjoyed my time resting among brothers and sisters.” he ran his foot through the random technological components littering the space.
The voice said to him. “What do you plan?”
“As we all awoke, we were met by friends. I believe we can trust these friends and they can help us.”
Master of Mental said, “If you feel this is the wisest course of action. We shall follow your lead.”
***
Nova stood in the middle of the Operations center. Chase walked in, nursing a hot cup of coffee. She stood next to him and grumbled out something that was supposed to be “good morning.”
“I see you’re still recovering from that poison Arx gave you.”
“Dr. Henderson thinks the dose he gave Quark, and me was a different formula. I guess he didn’t want us going out of our head before we got him back up to the station. I still think about how I drooled over that guy and acted like an idiot. I mean, he’s hot, but I don’t remotely like him like that. I’m not some guy crazed…”
“I get it.” Nova stopped her.
A robot announced, “incoming message from Hero: Krystal Fae.”
“Put her through,” Nova said.
Krystal appeared on the main monitor, her hair glowing brighter than usual. “Nova, good. I have something interesting to report.”
“What?”
“I started feeling strange over the past few hours. Not bad or sick, just… more powerful. I checked with others, and only magical heroes are feeling this strange surge.”
Nova said, “just what we need, one of those avatar things are about to show up and challenge everyone.”
Chase sipped her coffee and looked at a robot. “Any report from our morphon scanners?”
“Negative, Agent Chase.”
Krystal said, “I checked the morphon fields as well and even contacted Quark before calling you. No strange localized spike yet. So, we can’t be certain this is an avatar appearing.”
Nova said, “lets assume, for the moment, that it is. Contact the magically inclined heroes and start the whole contest. Get a head start on this. If this turns out to be a false alarm, at least you guys can get some practice in.”
“Understood, Krystal out.”
Nova stepped out of the BADGE shuttle and was met by two security guards. They each saluted and then walked with him through the overgrown field in the middle of nowhere.
“There has been a strong energy spike in the area, be careful.” Nova said. He stopped before a door on the side of a small concrete bunker.
One guard asked, “what should we look out for?”
“I don’t know. These morphon creatures have been popping up all over the place. That is the type of energy we’re seeing.”
The other guard asked, “are these avatars dangerous?”
“Not intentionally. But, they could pose a threat. Just be ready for anything.”
The guard pushed the door open for Nova. “We always are.”
Nova stepped in and the room was nothing but an elevator. Pressing a switch, he sped downward through the Earth.
It had been a few months since Nova was last in the former Headquarters of BADGE. This place was now simply another outpost to keep watch. It took a focused mind not to get lost in nostalgia as he rounded each corner. Finally, he entered the room he spent most of his time in when this was his base. The operations room was active with many screens watching the various views of North America. Once these screens were tuned into every corner of the planet, not they simply monitored this part of the world. Agent Justin stood in Nova’s place in the center of the room, a tablet in his hands.
“Agent, report! What was the emergency?” Nova waited for an answer.
Justin turned and said, “we have a guest.” and simply pointed to the side.
Nova turned and found the golem of computer parts smiling at him. The Master of Tech creature simply waved at the Director. “Greetings, human leader of BADGE.”
Nova frowned, “I thought we locked him up.”
“I thought so as well.” Just said.
Nova pressed the intruder button and an automatic force field surrounded the Master of Tech. “Sorry for the inconvenience. I don’t like uninvited guests in a BADGE facility.”
The Master laughed, put his hand up against the buzzing field, and then simply walked through it. “I enjoy that sensation.” He walked back and forth through the field.
“How are you doing that? That field is the strongest this base can make.” Nova was honestly stunned.
The Master stopped amusing himself and answered, “I am tech.”
Justin said, “apparently, since his power involves technology, we can’t use technology against him.”
Nova asked. “Then, he was our prisoner...by his own volition?”
The Master of Tech answered, “I wasn’t your prisoner. I was merely communing with other tech. All of us have been doing this. Once our challenge was met, we understood the humans are using our blessing correctly and so we have been exploring our element. Mine is technology, and this place is full of it. My brethren are exploring their own powers through your world.”
Nova asked, “what is it you want? Or are you just out and about to pet the machinery?”
“I am enjoying your lovely technology. However, my objective is not to simply explore. We seek answers and you need to help us.”
“We...you mean the other Avatars?”
The Master said, “yes. They tasked me with getting your attention, and I have.”
Nova narrowed his eyes. “I don’t like being manipulated.”
The Master looked up. “Ah, they are here. Come.” He walked out of the room.
Suddenly the comm came alive with the guards outside. “Sir, we have a situation up here!”
Nova rushed his way back up to the surface, even becoming a little lightheaded with the quicker ascent up the elevator shaft. To his great surprise, the Master of Tech was already at the top. The two guards were on full alert with their weapons out, and four other people standing around. The first was the lion man, Master of Strength. Next to him was a man made of rock, water, and even fire burning on his head, the Master of Elemental. An angelic man with his wings almost glowing, the Master of Supernatural, gave Nova a stern look. Last was a beautiful blue woman with red hair and streaks of red energy periodically flickering on her skin, the Master of Mental.
Nova stood before the two guards and put out his hands, “lower your weapons. I do not believe they pose a threat.”
A voice in his head stated, “we are not here to threaten you.”
The guards looked at each other in confusion, but said nothing about the disembodied voice.
Nova spent a moment looking at this strange gathering, his way of establishing a level of control by getting the focus on him. “So, you’re all here. My agents have had a hard time keeping up with your movements.”
The Avatar of Elemental said, “we know about your agents tracking us. We presented no threat to the populations of this world, thus we ignored our observers.”
“Oh, stop this talking! We have an issue to deal with!” The Avatar of Strength bellowed.
Nova said, “yes, apparently we do. What are you doing here?”
The Avatar of Supernatural stepped up, his imposing wings only overshadowed by that glowering look on his face. “Master of BADGE, we come seeking your help.”
“My help? You avatars have ignored BADGE and our requests since you first showed up, and now you expect me to help you. To what end?”
“You want to fight! I will…” The Avatar of Strength was held at bay by Supernatural.
Mental said, “this situation concerns the security of your world. There is one more of our kind we seek, but we cannot find it. We believe you can help.”
Nova said, “I have agents and specialist all over the planet keeping tabs on the morphonic spikes that accompany your appearances. We will see when the next one arrives.”
Master of Tech said, “this one is different. The last one is actually the first. It has been on this world for a long time, resting.”
“It… you keep referring to this as an it.”
“Many of your years ago, a human learned of what you call magic. He practiced human forms of sorcery, but upon learning of true magic from a creature named Jinn, he wanted to know more.”
“Jinn. Do you mean the time when he worked for the Ottoman Empire?”
“Correct.” Mental projected. “A man named Merlin began studying this new magic and writing everything down in a special book. He was not aware that he was touching the very essence of morphons. The magic used by this Jinn was harnessed through morphons, but only a very specific type. By dabbling in this, he infused those morphons into this book. It remained dormant for centuries, but it became the embodiment of Magic, the Master of Magic, an Avatar of Morphons.”
Nova whispered, “Merlins Tome.”
Supernatural asked, “you know of this?”
Nova softly nodded, “I have been protecting this world for a long time. In that time I collected and sealed away dangerous objects. I know of Merlins tome. It had strange properties that caused problems several centuries ago. It is in the archives in the BADGE UK outpost.”
Elemental said, “we must retrieve this. The morphons will awaken and the tome will become the last Master. We need him and we must protect him.”
Supernatural said, “the morphons of magic around this world have gained strength at his arrival.”
“That explains the heightened strength in the magical heroes.”
Mental said, “precisely. Our time is short, we must get to the Tome before he awakens.”
“What sort of danger does this avatar pose?”
Mental said, “it is not the Master of Magic that poses a risk, it is the information he holds that could potentially be used for nefarious deeds. There are those among your kind that seek knowledge they do not deserve to know. They desire to use this knowledge for terrible actions. We will not allow that.”
“I won’t either.” Nova pulled out his comm.
The BADGE helicopter flew over the crashing oceans near the shores of the United Kingdom. Nova and Justin observed out the windows as they sped through the skies.
“Any luck?” Nova asked.
Justin pressed several buttons on his communicator. “UK base, do you copy? I repeat, do you copy?”
A strange fuzz came through, and then a few whistles.
Justin set it down. “No, sir. I’ve tried every method of contacting them.”
Nova picked up an old style handset in the helicopter and put in a code. After a few moments he said, “yes, this is Director Nova with BADGE. We have lost contact with the UK base. I need assistance.” He waited a moment as the person on the other end spoke. Then he continued, “understood. Nova out.” he hung up.
Justin asked, “what did they say?”
“An hour ago there was an explosion near our UK base and the area is completely without power. They are sending in local law enforcement to check it out. MI6 is on alert.”
“I didn’t know we had a connection with MI6?”
Nova laughed, “there isn’t a national security agency we don’t have connection to.”
Justin was about to ask a question when he looked out the window. “Oh, no. Look at our base!”
Nova leaned forward to see that the unassuming location where the UK BADGE base was located had a large black hole in the side of it with smoke pouring out.
“Get us as close to that destruction as you can, pilot.” Nova commanded.
Justin asked, “do you think those avatars had anything to do with this?”
“I doubt it. They didn’t ask for our help just to attack our UK base.”
The helicopter landed in a field near the base and no sooner had the landing skids hit the ground was Nova out, running for the base.
A team of BADGE agents approached, with a woman at the lead. “Director, it’s good to see you again.”
“Commander Troy, what happened here?”
Troy said, “I can’t say. We had a proximity alert and before I could send a message to the Space Station, the power was knocked out. In fact, there isn’t an ounce of power in a forty square mile radius.”
Nova shook his head, “sounds like an EM pulse of some nature.”
Troy said, “I sent out as many agents and heroes as we could find to help mitigate the damage. Two medical facilities in the area were completely wiped out, we’re transporting patients to the nearest powered medical facility.”
“Good work. What about the attack? Who was it?”
Commander Troy opened her mouth to answer, but merely gasped as the Master of Supernatural flew down and landed beside Nova. Then the ground rumbled and a stone figure rose, the Master of Elemental. Mental and Tech were next. The last to arrive was the Master of Strength, who had his sword out and appeared ready to fight. The agents with Troy readied themselves for combat.
“Stand down.” Nova ordered.
Troy said, “what are they doing here?”
Nova answered, “don’t worry about them. I want to know who attacked this place?”
Troy spent a moment looking at the gathered avatars. “Uh... oh, right. The attack happened in a flash. We heard the explosion, and some people reported the sound of helicopters or jets. Then it was all over.”
Nova let out a hard sigh, “the same as the attack on Osteen’s prison.”
“Do you think the same organization that released Dr. Osteen conducted this?”
“I don’t know. But it seems too similar. An attack that is well executed to leave no witnesses on a location that seems impregnable.”
Troy said, “they killed several of my agents who could have seen them, but they failed to remove all witnesses.”
“You have someone who was present?”
“Yes.” She gestured to one man with her. “This is agent Chan. He was outside the compound, having tea in the grass.”
“Tea in the grass?” Nova frowned.
Chan smiled, “I enjoy my afternoon tea while I watch the ducks.”
Nova said, “you remind me of one of my agents. Well, what did you see?”
Chan said, “I saw two large black helicopters. A team of men dressed in solid black gear fired a missile at the side of our compound and went in. By the time I had gotten to the compound, they were gone and three of our agents were dead. I’m sorry for not being faster.”
Nova said, “It’s alright. If you had been any faster, they probably would have killed you as well. What did they take?”
Troy said, “that’s the strange part. They only took one thing.”
“Merlin’s Tome,” Nova said.
Troy nodded, “why, yes. How did you know?”
Supernatural said. “That’s why we’re here.”
Troy asked, “what would they want with that ancient book?”
Mental projected with her mind, “to learn secrets they do not deserve to know. The information they seek could prove disastrous for this world.”
“Who said that?” Troy looked around.
Nova said, “don’t worry. Chan, do you have any idea which way they went?”
“They went south from here.” Chan pointed east.
Master of Strength bellowed, “it is too late! They have the book! The humans have failed us!”
“Calm down.” Supernatural stated.
“CALM! WE NEED RAGE NOW!” Strength lifted his sword.
Troy said, “There may be one redeeming possibility. The book is locked.”
Nova nodded, “yes, I know. The lock was crafted by Santa years ago when I first obtained the book. But, if they found the book, the key…”
“Is no longer sealed here.” Troy stated.
“What?”
Troy smiled, “you didn’t expect us to keep both the book and key together. Even though they were separately sealed in vaults on opposite ends of this compound, I felt the risk was too great.”
Nova asked, “how did you know the book was a danger at all. I don’t even know what is in it.”
“I didn’t need to know. That the book was locked with a magical seal crafted by a legendary figure was enough for me to be concerned. I had the key moved to our vaults on the Isle.”
Nova said, “then we must assume that is where they’re going.”
“How can they possibly know about the isle?” Troy asked.
Nova said, “these people have been ahead of us at every step. They shouldn’t even have known about this location, or that the tome was here, and yet they did.”
Supernatural asked, “where is this Isle? We will go immediately.”
Troy said, “we can’t divulge that information to just…”
“The Isle is on the international date line, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Head back to the Helicopter with Agent Justin and he’ll give you the exact coordinates.”
Justin led them away while Nova stayed behind.
Troy said, “I’m sorry, sir, but I thought that place was the most top secret location BADGE owns. Not even MI6 knows of it.”
“I trust these people. They are single-minded, and their desire is for our protection. I know they aren’t a security risk. Besides, they’ll get there far faster than anyone else. You stay here and get this place back in operations. I’m going to get to the Isle and make sure they succeed.”
“Understood, sir.” Troy saluted and waited while Nova left her.
A trio of black helicopters flew fast over the open ocean. There were no markings on them, no lights to show them off, just the machines. Against the black night sky, they were nearly invisible.
Inside the lead helicopter, a team of black-clad soldiers patiently waited. In the center of this legion sat a dark suited man with a large, old book in his lap.
Delta carefully caressed the book, touching the leather straps binding and the golden lock, keeping it sealed. Ancient letters were etched into the wooden cover. Each letter emitted a strange glowing light.
“On approach to target.” The pilot announced.
Delta stood and approached the front of the craft. He leaned over and looked out across the dark watery landscape. “Do we have eyes on the target yet?”
“We have the island on radar and on visual.”
Delta said, “good. Now, prep the EM cannon.”
A soldier in the back flicked several switches and then pulled out a small computer screen on an arm attached to the side of the helicopter.
The pilot said, “we have anti-aircraft weapons activating!”
In the ocean near the building, large pillars lifted in the water, each carrying a massive laser emitter.
Delta said, “EM blast!”
Outside the helicopter, on the underside, a rectangular box opened, and a weapon extended. A bright blue energy blast shot out and hit the side of the building. A wave of the same blue light exploded in all directions, eventually dissipating before reaching the helicopters. The lifting pillars stopped moving and any lights on the building were all extinguished.
The soldier at the weapon controls said, “registering a full hit. We have neutralized all electronics. Residual magnetic effects have already ended.”
“Good.”
The man shoved the controls back against the wall and then asked. “Should we prepare a rocket launch?”
“No.” Delta looked at their scanner readings. “It is as I thought. That building could withstand a nuclear blast. Have all three teams ready for combat. We deploy as soon as we arrive.”
All three helicopters hovered over the building. Lines were dropped and the black-clad soldiers rained down, taking up a defensive formation around the surface of the flat roof. The last soldier to descend from Delta’s command helicopter had a metal lockbox in his arms. He set it down and then stood over it.
“DEFEND THIS BOOK!”
One of the other soldiers said, “from what, sir?”
The ground shook, and waves grew with intensity. Suddenly a man on glorious white wings landed in front of the leader, the Master of Supernatural formed white lights in his hands. The Master of Tech flew in using rockets on his feet. He dropped The Master of Strength in his first pass and then landed next to him, his arms forming into laser cannons. The Master of Mental came down, floating through the air with grace.
There was silence as she seemed to look at the lead soldier with focus. Finally, she grew worried and spoke with her mouth. “Why... why can I not read your mind?”
The soldier tapped his helmet, “best armor in the world. Now, stand down!” He took aim, as did all the other soldiers.
Supernatural let a bright flash of light burst out to grab everyone’s attention and then said, “do not fight us, humans. We will not be defeated. Give us the Tome or perish!”
The leader pointed directly at Supernatural and said, “I don’t take orders from you.” He shot, but Supernatural dodged the bullet.
Strength launched himself at the soldiers and sliced guns to pieces. A small team of the soldiers met his attacks, using special energized weapons to counter his moves.
Tech attempted to assist Strength, but another team of these soldiers targeted him with magnetic weapons, blowing parts of his body away. He would swing around and absorbed the fallen parts while he shot his lasers at them, but they were faster than him. Each time he regained a limb, they blasted another off.
Supernatural went for the leader. He was incredibly swift and avoided the gun fire. He grabbed the leader by the throat and threw him across the roof. Five other soldiers bore down on Supernatural. His speed was blinding, but they were keeping him at bay.
Mental swooped down and attempted to use mind-blasts to upset the soldiers, but their helmets protected them from her power. She then used her powers to create waves of telekinetic energy, but they blocked this with energy barriers that they formed from special arm bands.
Mental landed and pushed her hands out, creating a telekinetic barrier to stop them from attacking her. She projected with her mind to the others. “They are ready for us! We cannot best them. Elemental, you must sink this island, it is our only hope!”
Strength yelled, “We can stop them!” He suddenly twisted around and threw his sword. It went right through the chest of a soldier attacking Supernatural. He dodged his own attackers and slid under several fighting against Tech, and ripped his sword out of the corpse of his victim. He spun around quickly and kicked another soldier in the gut. “CHANGE ENEMIES!”
Supernatural turned on those who had been attacking Strength, Tech turned his attention to the soldiers fighting Mental, and Mental went after the men fighting against Tech. The battle was suddenly shifting. However, so was the entire building. The structure rocked and rumbled as the earth moved and the tidal waves crashed against it.
The pilot turned the helicopter as they made another pass far over the building.
“Sir, it looks like our soldiers are being overwhelmed.”
Delta merely smiled, “I expected no less. Those creatures are incredible, I never believed mere humans could best them, even with our special enhancements.”
“You expected this battle to fail?”
“It isn’t failing.” Delta stated.
Suddenly the building cracked as part of the island slid into the ocean. A full corner of the structure was now hanging over open water, and it was about to fall.
“They’re going to sink the island!” The Pilot called out.
“I know.” Delta’s smile was vicious now. After a moment, he said, “get me closer to that building.”
“I’ll try.”
They flew over the opening in the building, and Delta opened the side door. He jumped out, landing in the middle of the combat. He entered the opening in the wall and was gone.
Master of Strength grabbed a man and flung him over the side into the ocean. He roared and then looked for his next enemy. What he found was his compatriots standing, and a rooftop filled with fallen soldiers. The building lurched to the side, and he had to kneel to keep from sliding off.
“STOP SINKING THIS PLACE!”
The building stopped moving and all the Avatars approached the metal box.
“Is this it?” Supernatural asked.
Mental reached down for it, but she was stopped when Delta crawled out from the hole. In his hand he held a glowing golden key. He smiled at them, “Ah, how nice to finally meet you. It would benefit my work greatly if you would come back with me to be studied.”
Strength readied himself to fight. “What do you want?”
“The Arcane knowledge of Merlin’s Tome.”
Strength grabbed the box and held it, his sword ready to strike. “You won’t survive to learn it.”
Delta looked around at his fallen army, “I suppose I won’t. Too bad, it was such a good plan.” He took out grappling gun and shot it straight up, hitching onto the helicopter that took him away.
Supernatural looked at Mental, “who was that?”
She shook her head, “I couldn’t read his mind.”
Tech said, “at least we have the tome, that is all that matters.”
Strength grabbed the box and ripped it apart. He roared in rage as he dropped the empty box.
Nova stepped out of his helicopter onto the slanted roof of the Vault. Bodies of the fallen soldiers littered the roof. The Avatars were there, quietly waiting. Only Strength made any noises, as he continued to growl.
The roof suddenly shifted upward, and the crack closed up more. Nova had to steady himself. “What was that?”
Mental said, “Elemental is currently repairing the island, so this structure does not fall into the ocean.”
“I see. What happened? Where is the Tome?”
Strength bellowed, “WE WERE FOOLED!”
Supernatural explained, “our enemy drew us into a combat over the Tome, but used the battle to break into this structure. We tried to follow once we realized the ruse, but they were untraceable. I could not see them.”
Nova quietly dove into thought as the Avatars watched him. He finally looked up at Mental. “Has the Tome awakened yet?”
“No. I do not sense it’s awakening.”
Nova said, “then there is still time. You five can sense the morphons better than our sensors. Spread out, search the world. The moment you sense the awakening, contact me. We may still be able to stop them before they do whatever it is they are seeking.”
Mental gave a soft nod, “we will help.”
“Then, go.”
***
Delta sat in the helicopter as it blazed through the skies. In his lap he held the Tome. In his hand, he held the key.
“Sir, Alpha and Beta want an update.” The pilot pointed at the small monitor.
Delta pressed a button, “This is Delta. I have the artifacts. We’re on our way.”
An altered voice came through, “This is Alpha. You have authority to open the Tome. Do not wait to return to base.”
“Understood.”
The pilot turned on the cabin light as Delta pressed the key into the lock and turned it. The sound was that of a large, old door unlocking. Not a small book. He removed the key and carefully pulled apart the leather straps. His hands almost trembling, he opened the cover. He flipped through several of the pages.
“Well!” That voice demanded.
Delta said, “it’s blank.”
“What! Not possible!”
Delta continued flipping through the ancient pages. “It could have been a decoy.”
“I want…”
Delta stopped him, “Wait... I found something.” He moved the book to the side and watched as the edges of the pages glistened in a strange myriad of colors as they left the light of the cabin. “The pages are changing.” He reached up and turned the cabin light off and moved the book around. Color grew brighter as he did. Finally, he shifted it into a shaft of moonlight coming in the side window. A few letters could be seen written on the pages, not entire words. “It’s moonlight.”
“DELTA REPORT!” That voice commanded.
“Sir, the book is responding to moonlight. But, I still can’t read it.”
“We’re sending coordinates, go to them and do what you can to read this book.” The voice cut off immediately.
The pilot frowned. “New York?”
Delta slowly closed the book. “Tonight is a full moon, pilot. And that is where it will be most visible.”
The helicopter landed in the middle of a farmer’s field. The night sky was as clear as it could be, with millions of stars twinkling around a glorious pink moon.
Delta stepped out of the vehicle and crunched over the churned earth of the cornfield. He paused and looked up at the moon for a moment.
“Hey! What are you doing in my field!” A farmer in his night clothes ran out with his cell phone in his hand. “I’ve called the police.”
Delta waited a moment, not even looking at this irate man. The moment the man got close enough, Delta swiftly pulled out a small gun, shot, and then continued on his way. The farmer lay on his field, dead.
The pilot now joined Delta, “that is an amazing moon tonight.”
“It’s a super moon. Now, let’s see what we have here.” He opened the book again and smiled. All the letters were visible, glowing with various colors. The script was an ancient language, just like the text on the front of the book. “It’s all here.” he whispered as he turned page after page.
***
Nova patiently waited while his helicopter raced across the sky.
“Are you sure this is them?” The pilot asked.
“Local police were just called about a large helicopter landing in a farmer’s field in upstate New York. It’s our best lead.”
“Okay, sir. I will... woah!” The man looked to the side just as Mental joined them, flying along.
She looked in directly at Nova and spoke into his mind. “We have sensed a strong gathering of Morphons.”
“Where?”
“Near the location we first met you this morning.”
Nova said, “that base is in New York. So, we’re heading in the right direction. Are we too late?”
“We do not know.” She answered.
“Pilot, push this bucket as hard as you can.”
***
“Sir! This is getting brighter!” The pilot of Delta’s helicopter called out.
Delta, still reading the book, was surrounded by a brilliant light. The book emitted an orb of energy that gained intensity with each passing moment. “I’m not done yet, don’t bother me!” Delta flipped back to the first page again and began reading.
“We have incoming!” The pilot pulled out his gun.
Nova’s helicopter landed in the field as the five Avatars made their appearance. In a matter of seconds, Delta and his pilot now had six enemies glaring at him.
Nova yelled, “Hand over the Tome!”
Delta continued flipping pages as he answered, “I have already won this, Nova.”
Strength yelled, “WE DON’T HAVE TIME FOR THIS, HE IS AWAKENING! KILL THE HUMAN!” He launched himself at Delta just as a bright flash of light exploded from within the book.
The shock wave sent Strength flying back and the others to stumble away. It threw delta across the
ground and slammed into his helicopter with such force that a large dint was left in the side.
Once the light calmed down, the tome lifted into the air, colored smoke and light swirling around it as it moved in the air. An old man’s voice came out in a jovial tone. “Greetings, human, avatars, it is good to finally be awake!”
Mental stepped forward. “Keeper, are you safe?”
“Why, of course I am. It’s a lovely moon this eve, is it not! Oh, look, there’s Nova.” The book flew across the area and got right in front of Nova. “It has been many years since we last had contact. Though, then you did not know I was aware. My author, Merlin the Great, thought highly of you.”
Nova said, “and I thought highly of him.”
“Yes. Now, I’m pleased to realize that you initiated the contest of magic champions already. How wonderful, how wonderful indeed. The humans, they are using my gift with great efficiency.”
Nova said, “yes, the contest is almost concluded. However, right now we must get you to safety. There are those who wish…”
“Yes, yes, I know. Learn the valuable knowledge within me. Let us leave. I will be seeing you again, Nova.” The tome opened up and became a bright light, then vanished.
Without a word of thanks, all the other avatars left just as quickly.
Nova’s pilot said, “that was quick.”
“They are good at that. Now, let’s see what we can learn from our enemy and his helicopter. We finally have a chance to…”
The enemy helicopter, with Delta laying on the ground near it, exploded. Nova dove just in time to not be skewered by a shard of propeller.
Looking up from the ground at the burning pile of debris, Nova muttered, “damn.”
On a distant cliff, days later, a man stood and looked out across the ocean. His dark suit was tattered in places and his face was bruised. He picked up a cell phone and put it to his ear.
"This is Delta, reporting in."
The voice on the other end spoke.
"Yes, we lost the Tome. But, I have committed it all to memory. We have what we need."
A silver, muscular hero smashed through a wall and flew straight into the sky carrying a lovely damsel in distress. He set her down on the roof of a building and gave her hand a swift kiss.
“Oh, Arx, you saved me!” The woman said.
Arx laughed, “all part of the job description. Now, back to finish the job.”
He flew away and met a giant man with a power punch right to his chest. This towering villain stumbled back and fell against several buildings. He swiped his hand through the air and knocked Arx down two city blocks. The hero crashed into the street and then plowed a long distance until he finally came to a stop.
The giant blue skinned man turned and dashed toward him, crushing cars, street vendor carts, and other various items along his path.
Arx came around quickly and grabbed the end of an empty bus. He spun around and threw the vehicle at the approaching giant. This did little good as the giant merely caught it and tossed it aside. However, this wasn’t an attack, just a distraction. Right behind that bus flew Arx. The giant wasn’t ready for the second powerful object heading for his face and was hit in the forehead. Arx quickly grabbed the monster’s ears and yanked him down, slamming his head into the pavement.
Standing right next to the fallen villain, Arx put his hands on his hips and said, “had enough?”
The giant shrank down, revealing a meek scientist, shivering in disgrace. The nerd admitted defeat and let the police take him away.
Chase stuffed her mouth with popcorn as she watched this spectacle on the screen of the station’s theater room. On one side sat Krystal Fae, on the other sat Gar.
As the credits rolled by, Krystal said, “I just can’t get enough of these Arx movies.”
Chase nodded, “I love him.”
Gar gave them both a quizzical look, “movies about heroes saving the world? But, that is what we do all the time?”
Chase laughed, “I know. But, he’s so hunky. I just love watching him.”
Gar frowned, “hunky?”
Krystal said, “it just means we like to look at his body. And, trust me, Arx enjoys showing it off.”
“I don’t get it?” Gar answered. “I have big muscles just like him, and I don’t cover myself, so anyone can see them. What makes him special?”
Krystal said, “why, I think you’re jealous.”
“I am not jealous. Just curious.”
Chase reached over and rubbed his arm. “Trust me, I enjoy looking at you too. But, since we work together, I look at you differently most of the time. We are good friends and coworkers.”
“I don’t understand.” Gar said.
Just then Director Nova came down the aisle near the wall. “Don’t worry, Gar, there is much about women you will never understand.”
Chase said, “and we like it that way.”
Just then a blue flash of light filled the room as Strange Quark appeared in the seat next to Gar. “So, the movie over yet?”
Nova nodded, “looks like it.”
Chase said, “tell me again why Arx sent us a preview copy of his newest movie. It isn’t even streaming yet.”
Krystal answered that, “when he sent it to me to bring up here, he said it had something special in it for us. But, to get to it, we would have to watch his movie.”
Nova looked up and huffed, “looks like we’ve got an hour of credits to go through.”
Quark laughed, “it’ll take that long just to roll through all the personal assistants Arx had while making this movie.”
Gar asked, “who is this Arx? Why would he have a message for BADGE?”
Nova said, “Arx was formerly known as Craig Wenzel. He was a nobody trying to make it in Hollywood. He contracted with some scientist who experimented with a growth hormone that was infused with morphonic properties. It changed him and made him big, muscular, and apparently attractive to audiences.”
Krystal asked, “if he was given powers, did they send him to BADGE to be tested?”
“Yes. And he trained just long enough to learn how to use them without killing anyone. To be honest, he really isn’t that powerful. More than half of the crap he does in those movies is CGI. Mostly, they made him beefy and have silver skin. He’s no stronger than any other body builder, he just doesn’t have to lift weights to keep that body. I was glad when he wanted to leave us, he was too camera hungry. I don’t need heroes who want to make a big splash for the media to see.”
Quark said, “what if he’s wanting to join up with BADGE again?”
Nova shook his head, “not that fame-hungry celebrity. He would have to work up here. Down there he can just smile for the camera, flash those over-sized shiny muscles, and get paid in fame and fortunes. Besides, I told him he wasn’t welcome.”
Chase asked Nova, “so, do you have any idea what he wants?”
“Probably to get us to come to his next premier. Now that you guys are getting more famous and he plays superheroes, he probably wants photo ops. I won’t allow it, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s all this is.”
The credits ended, and a new video started. Arx sat in his dressing room, smiling at a camera. “Hey, I hope Nova is watching this. I got some info for BADGE. I was shooting on location in Canada a few weeks back. I was out doing a meet-and-greet in this tiny town in the middle of nowhere Canada, Tumbler Ridge. While I was there, I saw this dude that looked just like the guy you’re hunting, you know, the one who built that thing that attacked Vegas as while back. Well, anyway. I’m still up here shooting and I’d love to go on a mission with some genuine heroes to check this out. Arx out! PEACE!” he flashed a peace sign, and the video stopped.
When everyone looked over at Nova, they found him pinching the bridge of his nose.
Chase asked, “how would he even know about that scientist? I thought Dr. Osteen’s identity was top secret.”
Nova said, “that moron has kept the BADGE gear I told him to return. We sent heroes to retrieve it, but he, somehow, still has some of it. That is the only plausible explanation for why he knows about this. And, if we don’t go there and see to this, he might go in alone. The last thing I need is to have an international celebrity get himself killed by a mad scientist.”
Quark said, “sooo, you’re more worried about a bad PR situation than his life?”
Nova said, “just get yourselves down there and see what you find. Don’t make a mess AND don’t let him use you for any publicity.”
“Understood.” Chase answered.
Dr. Osteen set up a series of blood tests with a large vial of blood drawn from several of his creatures. The computer began the process, and he sat down in his chair. Kicking his feet, he wheeled across the room and punched in a command to a different computer and looked at specs from a circuit board.
“Good. This is a much better design.” He changed the screen to a 3d model that allowed him to change components and test them in a virtual setting. “I love working for people with limitless funds and access.”
A sharp ding startled him, and then he wheeled across his lab in a new direction and popped open a microwave. Taking out the steaming hot burrito, he set the plate on a counter and slowly blew across it. While he sat there waiting for his lunch to cool off, he took in the glorious view out the window. Sharp, white capped peaks, with thick trees halfway up. Above were blue skies filled with wispy clouds and a few screeching hawks.
“Man, I love it here. Wish I had a hot tub out there.”
Suddenly a covering slammed shut over the window and the lights went out. The only light in the room was from the tiny dots of emitted by buttons and screens glowing with readings.
“Dangit! The generator is…”
The lights snapped back on and across from him, on the other side of the table in the middle of the room, stood the strange man named Delta glaring at him.
“Oh, it’s you. How d’you get in here?” Osteen asked.
Delta said, “I can come and go as I please, anywhere.”
“Cool. Hey, can you get me into…”
“I am not here for a chat. I am here for a progress report.” Delta stated.
Osteen got up from his seat and straightened out his lab coat. “I’ve been submitting them like you guys wanted me to. What’s with the personal visit? Did I do something wrong?”
Delta looked at several of the computers as he strolled about the room. “You’ve been prompt with your updates and information. However, I have some concerns.”
“Concerns?” Osteen asked. “What concerns?”
“Have you been able to identify anything more about the avatar situation?”
Osteen picked up several tablets and found the one he was looking for. He flipped through pages until he had his data. “Yeah, so, I was able to isolate the morphonic frequencies and determine the variations among them. I was on the cusp of learning something and then BAM, I have some kind of living thing calling himself an avatar.”
“Yes.” Delta said this slowly as he looked at the data. “It appears you had a breakthrough that will only help us.”
“In what way?” Osteen asked.
Delta spent a moment in silence and then said, “for now, just keep studying this phenomenon. Send us your data and we will decide how your proceed.”
Dr. Osteen cautiously said, “to continue this, I need to study phase two of my plan, infusing power into a subject.”
Delta actually smiled, “good. You are showing progress where we have failed. This is exactly why we recruited you.”
Dr. Osteen said, “I have a subject in mind as well.”
“We know,” Delta stated as he stood near the microwave. “You have been reckless, Osteen. Heading into town without any care about concealing your identity.”
“You guys send me all the supplies I need, including food. But, it’s all healthy crap. A man needs a twinkie now and then.”
Delta poked the hot burrito. “Of course. However, your face is on the most wanted list of every national and international intelligence agency. One traffic camera glimpses you, and they will have a team of specialist combing these mountains for you.”
Osteen gulped, “oh, uh... I doubt this tiny town is sophisticated enough to have cameras everywhere. Besides, if I hadn’t gone there, I wouldn’t have discovered my subject.”
“Precisely why we aren’t as angry with you as you deserve. We know who you found, and we’re pleased with the initiative. Just, send us a list of the items you want and we will make sure all your... culinary desires are met. Do not go back into any populated area again.”
“I will. Thanks.”
“Don’t thank us, just deliver results. Soon, your subject will be here and that is where our next phase begins. Here are your orders.” He handed Osteen a small tablet.
Reading it over, Dr. Osteen frowned, “this is elaborate.”
“Just follow them. We will monitor the data on our end and garner what we need. He will prove most useful for this part. Don’t, under any circumstance, allow him to know of us. Are the guns ready?”
Osteen quickly retrieved one of the weapons from North Onnotangu. “Yes, the Morphon atomizers are all ready, updated to the specs you sent last week.”
“Good. Then we are ready for the plan. Don’t fail us.”
Just then the lights went black again and then came back on almost instantly. Dr. Osteen was once again by himself.
“Wicked.” He commented.
***
The BADGE official shuttle lowered through the clouds and headed down toward a landing zone marked off in the middle of an abandoned parking lot.
“Tell me again why we are arriving like this?” Quark asked.
Chase said, “because, this is a small town that a Hollywood crew has already invaded. If a band of BADGE superheroes just popped in, it might scare the locals.”
Quark shrugged, “so a few people wet their pants. Big deal. It takes two hours to get from the station to this landing zone. I could have us there in four-tenths of a second.”
Chase said, “no, thank you. I get incredibly dizzy when you zap me from the station to the surface.”
“I don’t get dizzy.” Gar said.
Quark smiled, “so, if you don’t mind. Gar and I will just…”
The robot at the helm said, “prepare for landing.”
Quark sat back and huffed as the shuttle settled down onto the pavement.
Chase stepped out first and was followed by Quark. Gar stopped at the door and marveled for a moment, “it’s pretty here.”
Chase looked up at the Rockies in the distance. “Yes. It is beautiful.”
Quark muttered, “and this town could fit in the stations arboretum.”
“Well, we’re not here on vacation.” Chase sad. “We’re here to investigate this situation Arx has alerted us to.”
“Speaking of Arx, where is he? He said he would meet us here.” Quark looked around.
Just then a limousine rolled up and stopped. A chauffeur stepped out and opened a back door. “Mr. Arx has sent me to escort you to the set.”
Quark was all smiles and jumped right in. “you comm’n? This is ritzy.”
Chase shook her head, “we don’t have time for this, but I guess.”
Gar tried to get in, but his wings prevented it. He smiled at the snooty chauffeur and said, “I will fly along behind.”
“Very well, sir.”
With that, all were off to the filming encampment on the other side of town.
The limo stopped near a field filled with trailers, tents, and dozens of workers taking care of the day-to-day operation of a movie set. People all stopped and gawked at the arrival.
Chase stepped out with Quark close behind, drinking straight out of a bottle of champagne. He stopped, burped, and then said, “man, he had some good stuff stashed in this limo. Maybe I’ll…” he went to go back in and retrieve a selection from the bar.
Chase grabbed his arm and yanked him back. “Later.”
Just then Gar landed next to them. He gave a small wave and smile at a crewman that was grinning at them. “What is this place?”
Chase said, “this is a movie set.”
“Wow? Where do they keep the monsters?” Gar looked around as if he expected to see giant monster actors waiting for the cue.
Quark laughed, “they keep them in computers back in California.”
Chase said, “right now, I’m just concerned with where Arx is.”
A man rushed up to them, as giddy as he could be. “There they are, the superstars of the world. Real heroes, right here, on my set.” He pumped Quarks hand. “Love the skin, love it. Give me your makeup artist’s number.” Without giving Quark a second to retort, he went to Gar, “Love the wings, baby. So, alive, so natural. And that stone skin, fantastic. You must be that living statue person I’ve heard so much about. You’re amazing.” Finally, he grabbed Chase’s hand. “Gorgeous, love the look. Mysterious vixen. I could make you a star, I could…. YEOOOOOW!”
Chase had him on his knees with how she bent his wrist. “We aren’t here for a screen test. We are here for Arx.”
Quark interceded for the poor man. “Chase, please. Don’t injure the man.”
She let go. “Sorry. I don’t like pushy people. And I don’t like Hollywood.”
Just then the glamours figure of Arx came walking through the crowds, wearing his signature spandex super suit. His suit was designed to reveal more of his chest than was necessary, just a strip of form fitting spandex from his belt up to his neck, only about five inches wide the entire way. “Friends! So glad you could make it. I see you’ve met my director. Ben here is the best, been directing all my action movies since I was in The Vindicators.”
The Director, having quickly recovered, introduced himself. “Benjamin Steven Mastrovito, but you can call me B.S.”
Quark snorted, holding back a guffaw, “B.S... really?”
B.S. sneered at him, “yes, I’m the hottest directors of tinsel town. Wherever you find Hollywood, you’ll find B.S.”
Quark muttered, “That’s for certain.”
Before the director could tell Quark where he could stick his comment, Arx said, “come on, lets have some lunch in my trailer. I have a few hours to kill before the next shoot. You can look over the script and tell me what you think.” He directed the three genuine heroes through the throngs of workers and extras as he chatted about the script.
B.S. pulled a walkie from his belt, “I need extras to set three, we’re going over…” he walked on, giving his marching orders to all the underlings of this production.
***
Chase, Gar, and Quark stepped into a mansion on wheels. It was a luxury trailer that had both a small swimming pool and hot tub behind it. The central room was a lounge with enough room for even Gar and his enormous wings.
Chase said, “must be nice to be a superstar.”
Arx walked in. “It has its benefits. Though, don’t get me wrong, it’s a lot of work.”
Quark plopped down into the plush, leather massage chair, “sure it is.”
Arx walked over to the bar, “care for a drink?”
Quark said, “always.”
Gar quietly watched Arx while the silver superstar mixed some hard drinks. Finally, Arx asked, “what’s up, big fellow?”
Gar cocked his head, “I am trying to understand why Chase finds you so attractive.”
Chase blushed as her eyes widened, Quark snickered, and Arx gained a smile. “Oh, she does, does she?”
Chase said, “I just...it’s just that...oh we were watching the movie you sent, and I said I enjoy watching you...I mean your movies.”
Gar said, “no, you said to me the other day that you thought he had a great body.” he then cocked his head more when Chase covered her face.
Arx came around the bar, handing a drink to Quark, and then brought one over to Chase. He handed it to her as he bounced his pectoral muscles. She took the drink and glanced away. He laughed, “It’s okay. When I bought this body from that scientist, I wanted to impress girls. I guess I succeeded.” He looked at Gar, “But, then again, you’re just as impressive. Could use a little extra shine. Maybe a wax.”
Quark muttered, “or a rock tumbler.”
Chase sat down and said, “okay, we’re here because you said you had info on the scientist. At least I hope that’s true. You mentioned something about a script out there, and you should know BADGE…”
“I know, I know. BADGE heroes aren’t allowed to take contract deals for movies and commercials and stuff.”
Gar said, “too busy being heroes.”
Arx said, “the whole script thing was for the others. I couldn’t let them know why you were here. That scientist dude, he’s totally top secret. And don’t deliver Nova’s scolding for having some BADGE monitoring equipment still. I know it upset him, but I keep it well hidden and only use it to help keep my eye out. I may be a celebrity, but I still think of myself as a hero. And, in this case, it paid off.”
Chase asked, “give us the details.”
Arx picked up a remote and clicked it. Small screens covered the windows as a larger screen rolled down from inside the ceiling. A projector lifted from the table. Arx used the remote and showed them images of Dr. Osteen in the town. “I was out, doing a ribbon cutting with the mayor at their new Dinosaur fossil museum, and I saw this guy. I got as many shots as I could with my phone and then brought them back and checked them against the BADGE database. There’s no doubt, it’s him, this Dr. Jason Osteen. What the heck he’s doing in this backwoods town, I don’t know.”
Chase said, “it’s unlikely he’s just in hiding, he’s using this place as a cover for his work.”
Arx said, “my thoughts exactly. I borrowed a drone from the camera crew and did a few fly overs of the area. I saw this place,” He clicked, and they had an aerial view within the nearby mountains. A small, unassuming shack sat in the middle of a rocky field.
Gar said, “that could be just a normal place.”
Arx said, “I thought about that. I did some checking. This town is only forty years old. They built it to house the coal miners after they made a find. That building looks too old to be out here, unless someone wanted it to look old. So I checked all the land and building permits... that place shows up on nothing. According to all local and province records, that doesn’t exist. It has to be his secret location.”
Chase said, “wow, you really did your homework.”
“I’m not just a pretty smile, fantastic pecs, and incredible actor. I’m a superhero as well.” He smiled and a literal glint of light twinkled off his teeth.
Before Chase swooned, Quark said, “thanks for the info. We’ll look into this.”
Arx shook his head, “I’m coming with you.”
Gar said, “that might not be a good idea.”
Arx said, “I’m going in to find this jerk, with or without you.”
Quark looked at Chase, “what do you think?”
She was biting her lip, staring at Arx. “I think it’ll be okay. Shouldn’t be too hard to deal with. And Extra help can’t hurt.”
Quark rolled his eyes as Gar remained a little curious about Chase’s attitude.
Arx lounged on his couch and used a controller to navigate the skies over the mountains nearby using a drone. Chase kept track of details on a BADGE computer tablet, and the massage chair buzzed while Quark changed the settings again.
Chase pressed a button on her tablet. “Gar, you seeing anything important?”
The drone camera turned to the right and they could see Gar gliding along with it. “Nothing special. It’s pretty out here.”
“I know. Might make a trip back up here.” Chase noted and then said, “we’re almost on the location. Get the equipment ready.”
They passed over a final ridge and came to the grassy slopes with the shed.
Gar said, “I see it.”
Chase said, “so do we. Be careful. Land before you get too close. Don’t want to set off any security systems he might have in place.”
Gar landed with the drone lowering to the ground next to him. He held up a smaller device, “I’m at the location. What do we see?’
Chase checked her readings, “I’m definitely picking up unusual energy readings. But, I don’t know what they are. Running the analysis... yes, I’m reading a strong signature of that special alloy that dampens morphon powers. That has to be where he is hiding.”
Quark spoke, his voice vibrating as the chair hummed. “Sounds like we found him. Should we call Nova or something?”
Arx laughed, “Nah! Lets go grab em and get out. He can’t be expecting us. It’ll be easy. And, boy, will it look good on the news.”
Quark said, “sorry, Nova didn’t want this to become some PR stunt.”
“Well, Nova is in orbit and we’re here. He isn’t a movie star that needs to stay on the news as much as possible. This is gold and I’m not letting it get away from me.”
Chase said, “I agree with Arx. We can take this guy. If he gets some publicity for this, then fine. It’s not like we’ll be on the news.”
Quark said, still vibrating, “fine, whatever. I just want to get this done.”
Arx stood up and said, “lets get moving.”
Chase stood up with him, “Gar, we’ll be right there. Stay put.”
“Understood.”
Arx picked up his cell phone. “I can have my helicopter here in thirty seconds.”
Chase got extra close to him, smiling as she ran a finger down his shiny, silver arm. “Don’t worry. We can zap ourselves there in five seconds. Though, a limo ride with you sounds heavenly.” Her hand continued down until she got a grip on his behind and squeezed.
“Oh!” He jumped a little.
Chase shook her head, “oh, um...so sorry. Don’t know what came over me.”
Arx grinned, “I have that effect on the ladies.”
Quark stood up. “Ugh, lets get going.” He waved his hand and there was a giant flash of blue light, but instead of them changing location, he merely turned into a blue duck. Waddling back and forth for a second he said, “that ain’t right.”
Arx said, “lets just take the helicopter.”
***
Dr. Osteen watched a monitor as he typed into his computer. Several cameras watched the terrain near his little hiding place. There was an alert and one camera dominated the screen, showing the winged figure of Gar crouching on a hill.
“Ah, I have company. Just one... where are the others?” He changed the view back to the smaller screens.
Another alert sounded moments later, and the view changed to show the incoming helicopter. This vehicle had a gold signature painted on the side with the name Arx written out.
“Oh, so now the game has begun. Good. Playtime.” He pushed back on the desk and wheeled halfway across his lab. He stopped near a table with one of those special anti-morphon lasers sitting on an analysis unit. He unplugged it and turned it on.
“Computer, activate defense drones, full unit.” A wall moved aside in the back of the lab, and it presented him with more of his special robotic creations.
Red dots of light appeared in the bay's darkness as the computer announced, “initializing defense protocols. Orders…”
“Orders: Elimination.”
***
Arx hopped out of the helicopter and then turned to give a gallant hand to Chase. She used it to step out onto the grasses. In her other arm, she carried a blue duck.
Arx called out to the pilot, “get a good distance from here, stay safe. I’ll call you back when I’m ready for you.”
The helicopter lifted and left them quickly.
Arx and Chase ran on to find Gar, belly down on the ground, using a pair of binoculars to spy on the building.
“Anything yet?” Arx asked.
Gar said, “nothing.”
The duck asked, “any change in the energy readings?”
Gar frowned at the duck and then smiled when he realized who it was. “No changes.”
Quark said, “Then, we should... oh, I’m changing…” he flapped out of her arms and in a blast of light became his humanoid form again.
Arx said, “I say we just go storm the place. He can’t know we’re coming.”
Chase said, “might not be a good idea, we should contact Nova…”
“Ah, Nova is an old stick-in-the-mud. I’m going in. Someone get this on video.” Arx got up and ran.
“Hey! No! Dammit!” Chase jumped up to follow.
Quark huffed, “idiot. Come on, Gar, before something bad happens.”
Arx was halfway across the field toward the small shack when several robots popped up out of the ground. They were almost skeletal with wires and other parts showing. In their arms, each carried a large laser gun. One shot at Arx, but he jumped just in time to not be hit.
“OH, CRAP!”
Another robot popped up in front of Arx, and it nearly blasted him when a blade split its wrist from the arm. Arx threw a punch and cracked the faceplate of the robot.
Chase, preparing another blade, nearly ran into a robot that appeared. It took aim, and she didn’t have time to throw. However, Gar landed right next to the robot and put his fist through its chest.
“Those are the anti-morphon guns!” Chase yelled as she threw her blade to destroy another robot that appeared.
Arx grabbed a robot’s arm and twisted it around, slamming it into the ground. He pulled the laser free and shot at another robot, blowing it apart. “This is kinda fun!”
Suddenly a dozen more of these robots popped up at once, each brandishing the same anti-morphon weapon.
“I GOT THIS!” Quark skidded to a stop in the middle of the field and threw his arms out. A wave of blue light exploded outward. Nothing happened for a moment, then a rain of living ducks fell all over the place.
Arx yelled, “what the hell was that supposed to do?”
“Crap! I don’t know what’s wrong.”
The robots shot lasers at Chase, Quark, and Gar. Chase deftly avoided being hit, Quark phased in and out of reality, letting the blasts go right through him. Gar flew up and dodged the blasts as best he could. Arx dashed between robots, blasting them, and ducking when they fired back.
“This is easy!” Arx declared as he shot robots. “I should be filming this. Would make a great battle scene in my next…” a laser blast hit him in the center of his chest and he flew back, plowing across the ground.
“ARX!” Chase called out.
A robot almost got Chase but Gar landed directly on it, smashing it. He ripped its arm off and used it to knock the head off another robot.
“Retreat!” Quark called out as he threw ducks off of him, they seemed to be attracted to him.
Gar slammed into the ground, rolling over and over for a short distance, and then finally coming to a stop. He unfurled his wings and his arms, letting Chase go from where he had rescued her. Strange Quark flashed next to them, then vanished and appeared somewhere else, and then was back beside them as a duck.
“DANGIT!” He stamped his webbed foot.
Chase gathered herself from the tumbling and sat up on her knees. “What just happened?”
Duck Quark said, “that idiot tried playing hero and got himself killed.”
Gar stood up and looked back. “Those robot things are still coming our direction. We have to get moving.”
Chase pulled out her BADGE comm and flicked it open. “We need help. I’m going to call on the Canadian Leagues and see how fast they can get here. We have to stop those robots before…” the sound of an explosion stopped her. That was followed by a yelling and then more explosions.
All three jumped to their feet and raced toward the hill overlooking the robot army. All three, duck included, had their mouth hung agape as they watched Arx plowing through robots with his fists. He ripped arms off and used them to smash robots, then grabbed up a gun in each hand and lasered robots two at a time. The whole fight the robots blasted him with their weapons, and the laser blasts reflected off of him doing no harm.
“That’s not possible,” Chase whispered.
Quark said, “how can he do that?”
Gar stated, “like that.” He pointed as Arx ripped the head off the last robot and smashed it between his hands.
Arx threw down the debris of his last victim and then waved at the bewildered heroes on the hill. He yelled, “I’m going in!” and raced toward the shack.
“WAIT! STOP!” Chase ran toward him.
Quark flew on his little duck wings. “That idiot.”
Gar had his comm out, “BADGE, we have located the robot doctor. Arx is going in. Send help!”
They ran as hard as they could, Gar pressed his wings against himself and grabbed Quark out of the air, holding the duck like a football.
“This is so humiliating,” Quark said.
Chase held up her comm as they pushed forward. Nova’s voice came through, “stop that actor from getting himself killed. I’m sending in help!”
Chase answered, “too late. He just went in.”
“Gah! DAMN! Get in there and help him! Heroes and a BADGE unit will be there soon.”
They slowed down as they got closer to the shack. Almost ten feet away they heard a strange rumbling sound, and the ground shook. Lights flashed in the two meager windows. Gar turned and wrapped his wings around Chase while he kept Quark in his arms. The shack erupted in a ball of fire that sent flaming debris scattering across the ground, setting the grasses aflame.
Arx crashed into the ground, having been blown clear over Gar out of the shack. He rolled for a second and then laid on his back.
Gar slowly opened his wings once the destruction was over. Chase ran to Arx and knelt next to him.
“You okay?”
He smiled, coughed for a second, and then said, “I’m fine. Guess I’m more durable than I realized.”
She bit her lip and put her hand on his upper right pectoral. “You’re lucky, stupid, and brave. A combination that is dangerous.”
He coughed and meekly held her hand, “tell me something...cough...am I...still sexy?” then he grinned with that multi-million-dollar smile.
She giggled at him and said, “yes, and dirty, scorched in places, and your costume is almost seared off.”
He sat up and pulled away the burnt remains of the meager costume he used over his upper body. “It was just a prop, anyway.”
***
Gar and Chase walked among the many BADGE agents and heroes now scattered around the field. People gathered every scrap of remains from the robots. The lasers were each taken to a special unit to be handled with extreme care. A few heroes, led by Dracomeander, worked inside the still burning remains of the laboratory. Only those who could handle the heat could go in.
Gar met Tri-Blade near the building. “What are you doing here?”
Tri-Blade answered, “I came to help. Nova put me on sentry duty.”
Chase frowned, “sentry?”
“Well, not really. They have ordered me to keep all other investigative teams out of this until BADGE is through. Everyone wants to get in here and check out the damage. Due to the nature of this event, BADGE has primary authority to deal with this.”
Chase said, “speaking of Nova, where is he?”
“Back there, at the main tent.”
“Thanks.”
They found Nova at a table inside a command tent, looking over a collection of debris brought up from the underground lab.
“Director?” Gar approached.
“Gar, Chase. Where’s Quark?”
Chase shrugged, “he said he was having trouble with his strangeness and had to spend some time outside normal space.”
Gar said, “yeah, he kept turning into a duck.”
“He is a strange creature. Right now, I’m concerned with the strangeness of this.” He gestured to the debris on the table.
Chase said, “so what is the prognosis? What was he doing in there?”
Nova shook his head, “no clue. They designed all this equipment for work with weapons. I would guess this was for the anti-morphon lasers. It makes sense. He was part of the team in Onnotangu that helped develop the original weapon. But, there are things about it that make little sense.”
“Like what?” Gar asked.
“If someone were paying him to continue work on this weapon, why did he have so many of them
manufactured? If these were all the missing weapons from Onnotangu, why would they be in his lab. If I were a secret organization interested in this weapon, I wouldn’t put all the working versions in a lab somewhere. We simply need more data.” He looked up, “what did you need to see me about?”
Chase said, “well, we might have an issue. The media is here.”
Nova gave this a dismissive wave, “the media is always sticking its nose in these events. Just keep them away for…”
“You don’t understand. They’re currently interviewing Arx.”
Nova put his face in his hand, “and just what is he telling them?”
“A lot.”
Nova stormed out of the tent, followed close by Gar and Chase. BADGE agents and heroes alike bolted when they saw the look in his eye.
They came upon the gaggle of reporters and cameras hanging on every word of the half-dressed hero. Arx stood there, his pants burnt up to the knees. From his waist up he was bare, glistening in silver glory as the sun shone overhead. He had left the smudges and dirt on his body for show.
“Yes, that is exactly how it happened. After defeating a horde of robots armed with deadly lasers, I decided there was no time to wait for help, I had to do what a hero does, save the day. I got inside that house of horrors and found the mad scientist hard at work devising the destruction of all we hold dear. It was a quick fight, but he was more clever than I expected and set off a self-destruct system that eliminated his work and his lab. The explosion cost him his life, and he was obviously hoping it would take me out as well. But, as you can see, I’m fine.” He smiled, his teeth glistening in the bright lights aimed at him.
A reporter asked, “so, what impact will this have on the completion of your newest production?”
Just as Nova got to the front of this spectacle, Arx grabbed him and held him beside him. Arx smiled brightly as he said, “I’m canceling the production and quitting Hollywood. This world needs heroes far more than it needs actors. I’m officially joining BADGE!”
Nova bellowed, “WHAT!”
Chase, Gar, and Nova sat in the BADGE shuttle with Arx seated in the back. Chase would smile at Arx and then stop, trying to control herself, then return to smiling at him.
“So… which league do you want to join?” Gar asked.
“What?” Arx casually checked a small monitor near him, poking at random controls.
Gar said, “you said you wanted to be a hero, so you will join a League and help protect the world. That is what heroes do.”
Arx laughed, “not all heroes. You and this lovely creature here,” He flirted with Chase, who blushed, “work directly for BADGE. That’s what I want.”
Nova scoffed.
Arx continued, “me joining a league would be difficult. I am, after all, THE Arx. How would I possibly choose which league to bless with my presence?”
Nova said, “I think we need some mustard.”
Arx cocked his head, “what for?”
Nova, without even looking at Arx, said, “with the amount of bologna in the shuttle right now, I think we should at least have some sandwiches.”
“And I said you didn’t have a sense of humor.” Arx laughed.
Nova replied, “I’m not laughing. You aren’t joining BADGE or a League. You’re going to give us a full report of what you saw in that lab and then get the hell off our station and out of the hero business for good.”
“I think I’ll make my own life choices, thank you.”
Before Nova could tell Arx what he thought of those choices, the robot pilot announced. “Arrival at BADGE station in forty-five seconds. Prepare for docking.”
The shuttle contacted the airlock, and the back hatch opened. A team of specialist immediately unloaded the gathered anti-morphon lasers and placed them on carts to be moved to the science department.
Nova got up and said, “Gar, I want you to escort Mr. Arx here to the briefing room and have Dr. Henderson bring her equipment for analysis. Chase... Chase…” he snapped his fingers.
Chase had been staring at Arx. She shook her head and looked at Nova. “Oh, sorry. What?”
“Check in with the medical department and then head to the Operations center. You’ll keep watch while I debrief our superstar.”
“Oh, uh, sure.”
Nova left the shuttle, a permanent look of disgust on his face. Gar stepped out and waited.
Chase paused before leaving. “Well, I would like you to stick around.” She winked at Arx and then left.
Gar watched her leave, his face scrunched up with intense curiosity. Arx stepped out and smiled at Gar, “let’s go.”
***
Arx sat at the large, round table in the middle of the briefing room. A selection of specialized instruments beeped and blinked nearby as Dr. Henderson took readings. Nova stepped in and yanked out a chair to sit down near Arx.
“Doctor, you ready?” Nova asked.
Dr. Henderson nodded, “yup, all the systems are online.”
Arx frowned with that boyish smile of his. “You hooking me up to a lie detector or something like that?”
Dr. Henderson replied, “on, no, Mr. Arx. Just doing an initial scan. I can analyze morphonic data, and this brain scanner helps me see if you are being influenced by anything. I have to say, Mr. Arx, it’s such a pleasure to be working with you. I’ve seen all your movies and you…”
“Doctor,” Nova interrupted this.
“Sorry, sir.”
Nova said, “okay, Arx, tell me what happened in that lab?”
“I told the news all about that. Just watch tonight, I’m sure it’s all over the place by now.”
“I don’t want the news report of this, I want your report. I want details you spared so you could flirt with the cameras. Anything could help us.”
Arx said, “fine. I’ll tell you what I saw in there. I got in that old shack and found nothing, but I knew better than that. There I was, surrounded by dust and spiders…”
“This isn’t a movie script. Just the facts.”
“Oh, sorry, force of habit. Okay, I located a hidden door under some floorboards and smashed my way through. I got down to an underground laboratory where this little fat crazy guy was cowering in a corner. This dude didn’t even have a gun on him. I told him to surrender, and that’s when he hit a button and these crazy spider bots showed up and attacked me. I smashed and busted them up quickly. He headed for an escape tube or something like that, and I stopped him. I told him he was going to talk or else. Well, he took the ‘or else’ seriously and hit a self-destruct button. The computers blew first, then the whole place blasted part. Next thing I know, WHAM, I’m being ejected out of the ball of fire like a stunt double.”
Nova asked, “what about those computers, and the equipment? Any indication of what he was doing? What he was working on?”
“Not really. Mostly just tech stuff. I saw some stations with equipment to work on those laser guns. He was running a dyotronic computer processing system, really advanced stuff.”
“You recognized that?”
“Yup. You forget, before I got into the whole Hollywood scene, I went to school for computer tech. I still remember some of that crap.”
Nova said, “Perhaps you could be of further help. Have a look at the tech lab where we’re analyzing those weapons. See if you can recognize anything.”
“Sure thing.”
Nova gestured toward the door. “You can step out now. I’m sure you’d like something to eat, it’s been a long day.”
“No problem. Glad to be part of the team.” He slapped Nova on the shoulder.
Nova coldly stated, “you aren’t part of the team. Just helping.”
“We’ll see.” Arx left the room.
Nova looked at Dr. Henderson, “well, what did you get?”
She said, “I did a complete scan. His morphonic signature is much stronger than the last data we had on record for him. His powers have grown considerably.”
“That would explain how he survived that explosion. Unfortunately, this means we will need to consider him possibly joining a team. Just what we need.”
Arx stepped out of the lift from the operation levels and out into the large food court. Dozens of heroes and workers gathered and were staring at him. Some girls were just about to swoon while a few guys had movie posters in their hands, waiting to be autographed.
Arx waved and gave them his famous smile. “It’s so nice to see I have fans even up here. I…”
A white blur smacked him in the face, and EB hung off his collar. “Oh my god, oh my god, DO YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE? I looooove your movies. So exciting. And all the hot babes you get to kiss, I’m sooooo jealous. You’re amazing. I’m EB, THE Easter Bunny. I know, I’m way more famous than you, but in my own special way. You’re so cool. I want an autograph and maybe talk about a deal with you being a spokesperson for a line of chocolate I’m selling. I make chocolate, own tons of companies that do that. Do you like chocolate? Everyone loves…”
Gar peeled EB off of Arx, “Calm down.”
EB, dangling from how Gar was holding him, held his paws out toward Arx. “Don’t you know who this is!”
Arx laughed and patted EB on the head. “I never imagined I’d have a living legend as a fan. I’m honored.”
EB swooned, “he called me a living legend.”
Arx waved at the crowds again. “Hey everyone. It’s so great to meet you. If you haven’t heard, I’m joining you up here with BADGE. And, to celebrate, let’s have a little cocktail party out here, tonight. I mix a mean drink. And…” he walked over and pulled Chase out of the crowd.
EB lost that fawning look, “what’s he doing with Chase?”
Arx said, “I have a lovely date for the party already.” he kissed her hand.
While the crowds applauded and hooted, EB yelled, “HANDS OFF! THAT’S MY HOT BABE! LEMME AT ‘EM!” He wriggled around as Gar held him back from attacking Arx.
The lights low, candles graced the tables, and heroes chatted amongst themselves as they sipped various mixed drinks. Music echoed throughout the halls while some heroes were brave enough to dance.
Arx strolled out with a pair of drinks in his hands. He stopped at a standing table where Nova quietly watched the party with a judgmental gleam in his eye. “Hey, sourpuss. This is supposed to be a fun evening. Where do you keep your smiles stored?”
“Don’t push it. I’m barely keeping myself from sending everyone back to their quarters for the night.”
Arx held up a drink, “come on. Have something to drink. This is my specialty.”
“No.”
“Just have one. Might loosen you up.”
“I don’t need loosening up.”
“Yes, you do.”
“Fine. If it will get you to stop talking to me.” Nova snatched the drink and took a sip.
Arx bid him farewell and joined his date. Chase waited for him at their table. She was now in a slinky red dress with her hair up. She accepted the second drink from him and they chatted and laughed.
At another table, Gar sat with EB, who was smoldering with jealousy. “Who does he think he is? Big shot celebrity come along and try to steal MY girl.”
Gar said, “I thought you were a big fan of his?”
“I was, till he started smooching Chase. What if I…” he snapped his fingers and an enormous egg appeared above Arx.
Gar said, “I don’t think that’s wise.”
The egg vanished, “true. I’d hit chase with that mega-stink bomb as well. Can’t do that. He deserves it. Though, he makes a good drink.” He sipped his drink.
“I didn’t know you drank alcohol?” Gar said.
EB nodded, “I don’t. This is a special carrot juice blend he made. It’s really fantastic.” He noticed Gar’s new appearance. “You look… different?”
Gar rubbed his hand across his stone chest, which was glistening. “I tried using something to shine myself. Chase seems to like that.”
EB laughed, “so, you’re jealous too.”
“No.”
“Sure.” EB said and then sipped some more.
Nova fumed as he finished his drink. Arx was showing off and doing exactly what Nova didn’t want any hero to do, be arrogant. BADGE doesn’t need heroes who are in it for the appearance only.
His comm beeped, and he punched a button on his wrist. “Nova here.”
“Sir, we’re looking over the analytics of the anti-morphon lasers. I think you should come see this.”
“I’ll be right down there.” He punched the button again and finally had a smile tonight. He had a reason to leave this event.
***
Nova entered the main computer lab on the station. Dozens of stations surrounded the room with
various forms of equipment for analyzing and working on technical items. The anti-morphon weapons were hooked up to more than half of the stations, with the computers running continually.
Several scientists hovered over one of the primary stations, each giving the read-out some deep thought.
“Report?” Nova asked.
The lead scientist answered. “Sir, we have put these weapons through every test imaginable. The system on the gun is sophisticated and unique. However, there is little about this that makes it any different from a regular laser weapon.”
Another scientist in a wheelchair rolled up and typed in a command, which changed the screen. There were several videos showing firing tests in a controlled room. “We used this on every target at our disposal, they read as basic lasers.”
Nova looked over the specs and said, “I don’t pretend to know how to interpret all of this, but there has to be something you are missing. Unless, these aren’t the weapons from North Onnotangu.”
A woman shook her head and held up her computer tablet. “I’ve checked all the metallurgic data. These guns were manufactured in North Onnotangu and are the same age as the guns used there. Unless whoever designed these went to outlandish extremes to fool us, these must be the same weapons.”
The lead scientist said, “there may be the possibility that we’re missing something. That one tiny, seemingly insignificant element of this weapon is hidden from us, yet poses a lethal threat to a morphon based meta-human.”
Just then the door opened again and in came Arx carrying a small tray. “So, this is where you guys are hiding. You’re missing one heck of a party.”
Nova huffed, “why don’t you go back to the party, we are busy in here with actual business.”
Arx came over and doled out drinks from his tray to the scientist. “Everyone on this station is down there except these poor people. I thought I could come and share a little of the fun with them. Besides, I might lend a hand. I studied computer engineering in college, you know.”
Nova’s one good eye twitched, “I think you ‘expertise’ is not quite up to the task.”
“Oh, don’t be so stiff. Let me see if I can help. After all, I’m joining the hero game and want to be a contributing member of this team.”
Nova looked back at the lead scientist, “just finish your thought.”
“Oh, uh, sure. What I was saying is that this weapon defies our ability to determine its function to neutralize morphonic people. The only way to fully test and see what part of these causes that to happen would be to fire it at a living creature with a high content of morphons in its system. However, if this weapon works exactly as reported, that would vaporize the target and…”
Nova finished that, “would be murder.”
Arx set the tray down, “you could fire it at me.”
Nova muttered under his breath, “don’t tempt me.”
“What?” Arx asked.
“Nothing. I’m afraid we can’t do that.”
The scientist said, “it is curious that the weapon didn’t harm you. But, it would be far too risky to try that a second time.”
Arx said, “well, it was just a thought. Why don’t you let me look at this over here.” he walked around to another station. “Oh, cool! You have the dytra seventy five analytic decompiler! I worked with the fifty back at Walters State.”
The woman joined him, “you know about this equipment?”
“Sure. I loved reverse engineering. Being able to take apart something and see how it was made was a thrill. Let me take a shot at this. Oh, you got this hooked up here.” He pulled a cord out and plugged it in another slot, “here would be better. Now, lets see how this reads.” he worked the controls.
Nova said, “perhaps I underestimated your abilities.”
“People always do.” Arx said as he continued to work.
Nova looked to the lead scientist, “he can stay and help as long as he is helpful. The moment he becomes a distraction or a problem, kick him out.”
“Understood.”
Nova left the laboratory and paused outside the room. He held his head and wavered for a moment. “I only had one drink. Must just be tired.” He then headed back toward the party to send the people back to their quarters for the night now that the guest of honor was busy.
***
Agent Justin laughed louder than was called for a terrible pun Cosmic Infinity just made. Then Cosmic Infinity passed out right on the table. Just had a bleary look in his eyes, the same as everyone else. His comm device beeped and made a strange noise.
“What… what is going… on?” He picked it up. “The computer… she’s so funny. I laugh at the computer all day long…” he fell over. His comm device continued showing him a warning, but he was too gone to notice it.
Nova’s head hurt all night, even in his dreams. Everything around him was tilting and moving. Waves of nausea washed through his body. He called out for help in his dreams, to no avail. Suddenly, a loud siren blared, and he was shaken hard. Both the shaking and the siren grew so intense that he woke up just in time to roll out of bed.
Holding the side of his bed, he realized that both the sound and the tremors weren’t part of his dream. His entire room was rattling apart.
“Computer...oh..my head.” The swimming feeling in his head remained as well.
“Alert! Alert! Stabilizers compromised! Planetary Entry Imminent!”
Nova looked out the window of his room and realized that the stars moving weren’t just part of his strange hangover, the station was crashing. “Computer!”
“Alert! Alert!” The computer continued the warning while not responding to his direct order.
“I have to get to Operations.” Nova gripped the wall to get to his feet. The doors to his roo wouldn’t open, so he used the emergency lever to force them open and then stumbled out into the hall.
Running into walls and falling over several times, Nova staggered down the corridor toward central deck. Just before he stepped out into the mess hall, he almost fell over a body laying in the middle of the corridor.
“Dr. Henderson!” He came down and felt her neck. She was still alive. Still in her party dress, she hadn’t made it far from the cocktail evening.
Pushing ahead, he walked out to the party from the night before. Tables were strewn with people laying across them, or on the floor. No one had left from the party, and they were all completely out, even EB.
“What... what the hell… happened?” He struggled and then realized the only person not present. “Gar?” He pressed his comm, “Gar... come in.” nothing but fuzz. “Gar, if you can hear me, get to Operations!”
Unsure if Gar would get that, or if anyone else on the station was moving, he struggled onward.
Nova fell out of the lift and hit the deck of the Operations center. The computers were all spitting that fuzzy noise while the robot controllers were frozen in place. The primary screen at the front of the room had all the windows in the same garbled situation, save one.
“What...is going on?” Nova saw that the only working monitor had a rotating feed on it, cycling through the various cameras on the station.
“Alert! Atmospheric Entry in seven minutes! Solar shields unresponsive!”
Nova crawled his way over to a computer station and shoved the non-working robot over. “The back up...computer...is still operating. I have to reboot the station.” It was an arduous process fighting through this haze in his head and the constant need to vomit welling in his stomach, but he had no choice.
Finally, a screen came on with a working image. A voice said, “rebooting system.” Nova almost relaxed at that when the screen glitched, flickered, and a warning sigh filled it for a moment, then fuzz. “No... this... this can’t happen.” Then it dawned on him, “a virus… someone has put a virus in our system.”
“Bravo.” A new voice entered the room, followed by a slow clap.
Nova turned and found Arx strolling down the steps at the side of the room. “You... what... what have you done?”
“Not much, really. Dr. Osteen designed most of this. He planted it in the computer chips he replaced on those anti-morphon guns. All I had to do was make sure they got plugged into your mainframe. Once they infected your computers, it was only a matter of time before this station lost the ability to stay in orbit.”
Nova struggled for a moment as his stomach lurched. Then he growled out, “Osteen...you’re working with that madman!”
“Why, yes, I am. He isn’t mad, he’s a genius. He enhanced my powers in ways no one else would. I’m now the most powerful superhero Earth will ever know. Which will come in handy once BADGE is disgraced and most of its heroes are toast.”
“What the hell are you talking about?”
Arx laughed as he walked down the stairs toward the main floor. “Oh, you see, my contribution to this master plan was the idea of how to destroy BADGE with a little bad publicity. Publicity is sorta my gig being a megastar. I had him leave the cameras working. Then, he devised that additive I put in the drinks. After this station crashes, we’ll edit the camera footage, show how everyone here got sauced on booze, and then crashed the station. BADGE will be gone and people will have no one to look to for salvation from their enemies... and in I step. No longer just a cinematic hero, but a genuine hero.”
Nova said, “this is about fame! You posturing idiot! You… you are going to murder all these… people for… fame?”
Arx flew up and grabbed Nova by the neck, “I was the biggest celebrity on Earth! EVERYONE worshiped me as the superhero! Then your people come along and save the day again and again. My box office numbers are tanking. Who wants to pay to see a fake hero when you can turn on the news and watch the real deal. Well, I’m just taking out the competition and upping my game.”
Nova choked out, “you’re mad.”
Arx threw him against the floor. “No, I’m just doing what we do best in Hollywood. Look out for number one. Now, if you don’t mind, this station is about to make a big splash and I need to look good for the sappy interviews I’m gonna give. Don’t worry, I’ll say all kinds of nice things about you at your funeral. I might even…”
A stone fist nailed Arx in the face and he flew over the computers and against a far wall.
Gar helped Nova to his feet, “Are you okay?”
“No, but… I will be. Glad you got my message.”
“I didn’t get a message from you?”
“Who told you to come?”
Arx lifted in the air, red beams coming from his eyes hit Gar and slammed him into a wall. “YOU DAMNED ROCK! I’LL PULVERIZE YOU!”
A blue beam of energy hit Arx and he crashed into the front monitors. Sparks and shattered glass showering him as he hit the ground.
Strange Quark stood on top of a row of computer consoles and laughed. “That drink you gave Chase, and me really messed me up. It made her all goofy, but I suppose it works differently for different people. As for me, I haven’t been that strange in a long time. Was kinda nice. But, playtime is over.”
Arx stood and readied to fight, however a dozen more heroes appeared. “What... how?”
Quark flew down. “I’m an agent of BADGE. My comm unit was alerted to a crisis. I made a few calls. You really didn’t plan this well enough. That video feed you tapped, we can access that from any BADGE facility. I’ve seen everything you were doing.”
Just then the computer announced, “gaining altitude! Stabilizers activating.”
Quark said, “oh, and that would be about five dozen heroes putting us back into orbit. Nice try, but your game is finished.”
Arx laughed, “oh, really. Well, if I kill all of you now, I can still bury this place on the planet and…”
“And nothing.” The Closer said. “I piped this signal to all the media stations. I wanted the world to see who was behind this. You scared a lot of people down there.”
“The world was WATCHING!” Arx yelled.
Nova said, “how’s that… for bad publicity?”
Arx looked around at the appearing superheroes. “So, you want a fight? I’ve been given powers beyond anyone here, ANYONE! I’ll prove that. I’ll have my fame, my glory, even if I have to become the villain!” He flew straight up, smashing through the station and out into space.
“What... what is he doing?” Nova wavered as Gar held him steady.
The lone working screen suddenly changed to a close-up image of Arx. It was the official League Wars broadcasting system. “Hey planet Earth! So, you seen me at my worse. Well, you ain’t seen nothing yet. I’m calling out all the heroes. Come up to the League Wars arena and just try to stop me. I’m gonna beat all your stupid heroes and look good doing it. Oh, and heroes, if you don’t meet my challenge, you’ll face me over a nice big city. It’s here or we level a metro area... your choice. ARX OUT!” The camera was smashed in his hands, ending the signal.
Nova said, “looks like... we have to do something. Heroes…” he fought to give his order.
Gar pressed the button on his comm, “Heroes, report to the Orbital Arena. Take down Arx!”
“THROW ME!” Zen dashed across the League Wars Arena.
Shinobi deflected a blast of energy with his blade and then quickly scooped up the penguin and threw him directly at the flashy super-villain.
Zen darted through the air, his bladed flippers ready to slice and dice. The moment he reached the battling villain, Arx grabbed him and then kicked Zanazola right in the face.
“let me go, you silver jerk!” Zen stabbed at the shiny arm gripping him.
“Smile for my InstaBlab,” Arx held Zen and took a pic with his selfie stick.
“LET ME GO!”
“My pleasure!” Arx twisted around and spiked Zen right into the arena floor.
Five more blasts of energy hit Arx and his reflective skin sent the power flying in all directions. Arx was showing signs of damage, but he fought all the harder. He swung to the left and nailed Lumpsum in the chin, swung to the right and punched Magnificent Punlork in the chest. With a quick dodge, he avoided a flying chair thrown by Sevon and then grabbed the hero by the neck and plowed him face first into the ground.
“When will you learn, I’m unbeatable!” Arx flew up and grabbed Yucca by the foot and spun them around, throwing them out of the arena like a shot put. He stopped to catch his breath, the pain in him obvious.
The masses of heroes settled slightly and Arx flew back down, “see. Just bow to my superiority and I won’t keep…” his little speech was cut short by a clothesline to the face.
Skelli skidded to a stop and looked back at Arx. “What were you saying?”
Arx pushed himself up a few inches, and then his feet were grabbed by a giant hand. Midgardsomr swung him over his head and slammed him to his right, then his left, and then his right again. Arx wheezed as he lay in the crater made by his own body. Midgard leaned over and said, “just like my favorite movie scene, and it wasn’t one of your crappy movies.”
“YAH!” Arx flew straight up and hit Midgard in the chin, sending the massive world serpent stumbling back. The sight of this behemoth of a creature being bested by a small villain set a few heroes back. Arx hovered in the air, seething in rage. “I will not be treated like this! I AM A SUPERSTAR! I AM…”
He was once again cut short when a flying hero crashed into him. Hotwings shoved him through the air, and right into the wall of the stadium. Before Arx could recover, Hotwings tied Arx’s own cape around his head.
“I think it’s time to bring the curtains down on this actor!” Hotwings quipped and then repeatedly punched Arx in the chest and stomach while the villain struggled to get out of his own cape.
Arx ripped the cape free and reached out to strangle Hotwings, but his arms were grabbed. Hotwings pulled the same move as Arx and swung him around. “SKELLI!”
Arx flew across the field, and Skelli flipped over, kicking Arx with a hard smash. The villain tumbled right into Midgard, who nailed him with a fist, sending him back to Hotwings, who caught the remains of his cape and spun him again. “BACK ATCHA!” He threw Arx back to Skelli, who sent him to Midgard, and then Hotwings. Finally, as Arx flew for his last time toward Hotwings, the hero didn’t catch him, but punched him right in the chin. Arx flew over the Arena and right through the barrier. He was now at the mercy of naked space as he tumbled toward the planet.
Hotwings landed in the middle of the arena, surrounded by hundreds of bruised heroes. A few were being carried off using the League Wars medical equipment.
“Is he coming back?” Hotwings asked.
Midgard peered out from his extreme height. “He’s out of control.”
“I guess someone should go get him.” Hotwings looked around. “Are there any space worthy heroes here?”
The Wizard hobbled over, nursing a broken arm. “None that are awake. I could try, but I’m in bad shape.”
Midgard snarled, “let him pop in space. He deserves no better.”
Hotwings pulled out his comm, “no, we’re heroes, not executioners. Nova, this is Hotwings, we have a situation.”
Gar came through. “We need help. Nova won’t wake up.”
The heroes returned to the BADGE station and helped gather the poisoned people. The only person on the station left standing was Gar. A few of the heroes who were capable with medicine worked in the infirmary helping the sick. Quark had zapped to the planet to get some medical help from the surface.
Krystal Fae stood next to Nova’s bed, her hand held over his face. A purple light shone between them. When it stopped, she smiled and said, “I think you’re okay.”
Nova, awake now, said, “that was some nasty stuff he gave us. Have the chemist figured out what it was?”
SuperRakly, standing on the other side of the bed, answered. “We sent the information down to the lab at the Henry Ford center, but they can’t confirm anything yet.”
“Henry Ford Center?” Nova frowned.
Rakly shrugged, “We’re kinda working blind here. All the staff are still pretty out of it. You’re the first to wake. Gar isn’t a doctor or chemist. So, we went with the ideas we had.”
“Thank you for helping. Has anyone gone to pick up Arx’s body?”
Krystal said, “I had a shuttle sent out to search for him, but there was no sign. I wager he entered the atmosphere and is nothing more than a cloud of ash by now.”
“I suppose that’ll have to do. I’d prefer a different punishment.”
Rakly said, “he gave us little choice. He was really powerful.”
Nova started pushing himself up, but Krystal held him at bay. He said, “I need to get to Operations and start the search for Dr. Osteen again. I have work to do. Let me up.”
Krystal pushed him back down. “No. You may be better, but you aren’t well. Gar has command of Operations and we have Leagues all over the planet back on the search. Trust in us.”
“I don’t want to lie here while a madman creates super villains.”
“Don’t worry, we’ll find him before he makes another Arx.”
Just then the patient next to him came around. Chase groaned and slowly put her hand to her head. “Wow... I have the worst hangover. What... what happened?”
Krystal stood next to Chase’s bed. “You were poisoned.”
“Poisoned!? Oh...it was Arx, wasn’t it?”
Nova asked from his bed, “how do you know that?”
“He gave me a drink back in Canada and then I lost control. It was like I was in a dream or something. I was enchanted by him, in a daze of some sort.”
Krystal asked, “what do you think of him now?”
Chase groaned and put her hand over her eyes. “I’d love to see him.”
“Oh, dear.” Krystal shook her head.
Chase finished her thought, “so I could smack that arrogant smile off that chrome face of his.”
Nova laughed, “that sounds like the real Chase.”
***
Arx gasped and sat up on a metal bed. The world was blurry for a moment, only bright lights and a few human-shaped shadows around him.
“Good, you’re awake.” A voice said.
Arx squinted and shielded his eyes from the brighter lights. “Who’s there? I’m warning you, I have the best lawyers…”
“Oh, you won’t need lawyers. At this point, you’re dead.”
Arx blinked and rubbed his eyes, working them back into focus. “Who are you? Where am I?”
Dr. Osteen pressed something against his neck and then looked at a small device in his hand. “Good, it is operational.”
“Osteen, where...how…”
The man speaking to him said, “You fell to Earth. It was a spectacular fight you had. However, your real mission was a failure. We sent you to destroy BADGE, and all you did was get in a big fight.”
Osteen added, “it’s a good thing I super charged all your powers and strengths. You survived that fall and that battle.”
Arx looked at this dark dressed man. “Tell me who you are?”
“I’m Delta, Dr. Osteen works for me. That’s the only information you’ll receive. As of this point, you’re now a subject.”
“Subject. Hey, wait a minute. I didn’t sign up for anything.”
Delta leaned over, getting in Arx’s face. “Yes, you did. The moment you accepted all this new power Osteen gave you, you agreed to obey us. You became a part of a much bigger plan.”
“I WON’T…. AHHHHH!” Arx tried to use his laser eyes, but something around his neck sent waves of pain through him instead. He felt a metal collar on him. “What’s this?”
“Insurance. You’ll obey Dr. Osteen and he will use you as a subject for our grand plan.”
Arx snarled at him, “and just what part of this plan am I?”
“You’ll find out.” The lights went out and then came back on, Delta was gone.
Arx looked around, “where’d he go?”
Osteen laughed as he prepped an injection. “I have no idea, but it’s the coolest thing ever. Now, hold still, this might sting…”
The shuttle ride was unusually quiet, especially since EB was on board. Normally, he would bounce around, pass out chocolate, and chat everyone’s ear off. Nova would typically threaten to nail him to a chair or stun him with his blaster, to which EB would laugh. Not today. There was a solemn silence throughout the gathered heroes.
“Are you going to be okay?” Chase asked the small bunny.
EB looked down at the hat in his hands. “No. But, I want to do this.”
Quark said, “it has been hard on us all. Last year we all lost friends in both the incidents with Jinn and the Ruby Crisis.”
Chaz Hamilton cleared his throat and asked, “Um, I was wondering if I could ask a few questions. For the paper.”
Agent Justin, in the pilot’s seat, announced, “landing in Ireland in two minutes, prepare for departure.”
Nova said, “after we land, Mr. Hamilton.”
“Oh, okay.” Chaz sat back and tightened his seatbelt.
The shuttle came to a soft landing, and the door opened. Nova quietly stood up first and took the hat from EB and then, in a move that surprised everyone on this shuttle, he held out his arm and let EB jump up to his shoulder. Together, they left the shuttle first.
Chaz was the last to leave, following behind Gar and Chase. He just about tapped Gar on the wing when he gasped and gawked at the glorious sleigh that landed near them. Santa jumped down from the sleigh and came to greet his friends.
“Santa too?” Chaz said.
Chase answered, “of course. He wanted to be present for this.”
Chaz made a note on his computer tablet and then rushed to catch up with everyone.
In the misty morning air of an early Irish spring day, EB and Santa gently placed a green hat on a stone that was inscribed with words from a language impossible to read by anyone but a Mythic.
Santa said, “Here we will remember the life of our dear, dear friend, Leprechaun. Though his life was marred with poor choices, in the end he made a noble sacrifice that saved this world. He was my friend for many years. At this time of the human year, we will remember the joy he spread in the days when his heart was light and his cheer grand. He...” Santa teared up and couldn’t continue.
EB hopped over and placed a four-leaf clover on the hat. “He was a good friend and a genuine hero in the end.”
Time passed, and the small memorial service was over. The gathered people sat on a small series of stones and listened as both EB and Santa told stories of Leprechaun.
Chaz leaned over and asked Chase, “what happened here?”
“What do you mean?” Chase asked.
“Before I came on this trip, I looked up all the info in the media files surrounding the Carlingford incident last year. The reports were vague, at best. I learned about a strange coin hunt heroes were on. Something about the Leprechaun. And… nothing more. Who was this Leprechaun? I mean, the legends here are of many Leprechauns? Was he just one of many?”
Gar, who was sitting nearby, said, “He was my uncle.”
“Uncle?” Chaz made a quick note.
Chase answered, “not really his actual uncle, but as close as he could be. It is a complicated story.”
Chaz realized everyone was now listening to him. “So, uh… I would like to know more. I mean, the news about this event last year was spotty and hushed up. Even Krystal Fae refuses to talk about it, citing some BADGE rules.”
Quark said, “it was classified to keep people from getting hysterical about it. Plus, they didn’t want too much frenzy about a real Leprechaun being here.”
“Oh.” Chaz set his tablet down, defeated.
Nova rubbed his chin, “I think we can declassify this.”
Almost everyone said, “what?” to that.
Nova nodded, “I think it has been long enough. BADGE has gotten a reputation for covering things up. And most of the time it is for good reasons, but this time I think it can be told. Also, I think you have the best chance of getting the correct details.” He signaled with his comm. “Agent, report to my location.”
Chase smiled, “that’s right, it was Justin with me in the Leprechauns home.”
“You were in his home?” Chaz frowned.
Chase said, “yes. It’s a long story. Hey, maybe we should call Fleagle...” She saw that look in Nova’s eye, “or Justin and I can handle the story without him.”
Chaz scooted closer, “I want to know everything. Don’t spare any juicy detail.”
Chase said, “it all started before St. Patrick’s day last year. The whole Cupid incident was behind us, and I had formally joined BADGE and was in training. That’s when Nova called us to a meeting….”