Post by Deleted on Mar 26, 2015 20:37:29 GMT -5
Titans East Chapter 28 – “A Day In The Lives”
Written by: Green Lantern
Co-conspirator/Editor: Power Guy
Metropolis, U.S.A….
“Soaring over the sunny skies of Metropolis, the mighty Power Lad patrols the villain infested city below insuring that planet earth is a safe place for children to play. Little do civilians below know that their beloved hero is once again being tortured through the endless lectures of his self-righteous side-kick: Power-puff Guy!” thought Power Lad.
“…and another thing,” continued Power Guy, “You have become a loose cannon! You’re dangerous! I’m afraid that someone is going to get hurt soon if you don’t change your ways!”
“…blah, blah, BLAH!” interrupted Power Lad. “The bad guys deserve what they get. People like you and your friends in the Titans of Justice are wasting your time. First, you capture said bad guy, only to turn him over to the authorities…and then what happens? He escapes to rob another bank and kill another guard! You people are pathetic and it’s starting to get on my nerves!”
“We have to abide by the law.” insisted Power Guy.
“Then GET A JOB with the police department and leave super-baddies to REAL warriors who are willing to do what it takes to get the job done!” shouted Power Lad.
“…even if it means KILLING?” challenged Power Guy.
“HELLOoooooooo!?!!” said Power Lad in irritation, “Every bad guy on the loose puts normal, law abiding citizens in constant danger. Murderers and super-villains should be the ones on the endangered species list, not moms and kids!”
“But if we kill them, then we're also murderers and no better than them!” reasoned Power Guy as he noticed a girl crying in Central Metropolis Park.
“No, PG. Ridding society of killers makes us heroes.” said Power Lad as the two landed near the young child.
“What’s the matter, honey?” asked Power Guy as he wiped the tears of the little girl.
“My cat is up there and I can’t reach her,” she said pointing to a nearby tree.
“Don’t worry, we’ll get her!” reassured Power Guy as he motioned to Power Lad to do the honors.
Power Lad rolled his eyes as he rescued the cat. “Got some news for ‘ya kid! Your cat’s not a she, it’s a he.” he said as he tossed the kitten to Power Guy.
“CAREFUL!” shouted Power Guy as he flew up to catch the kitten. “Here you go, honey!”
“Thanks, Superman! You’re the best!” she said with a beaming face.
“Superman?” wondered Power Guy.
“I don’t have time for saving animals, PG. The days of Microsoft Power Lad are over. Get ready for the all-new HARDCORE Power Lad!”
“You’re making a mistake…” started Power Guy.
“Save the lecture, Power Puff!” interrupted Hardcore Power Lad, “I am going to go practice air-surfing on my dad’s new super-speed turbo surfboard. It can cross and ocean in just fifteen minutes!” he said as he flew away.
An invisible witness watched until Power Guy was safely gone, and then paid the young girl for pretending the kitten was hers. Afterwards, he followed Power Lad via the tracker he placed on his boot during the rescue.
________________________________________________
The Hall of Justice…
“I appreciate all of you coming to this meeting on such short notice,” said Celsius with his hand on the shoulder of a man dressed in a sports outfit. “I only wish the whole crew could be here for this. I would like to introduce you to the newest member of the Titans of Justice: The Sportsmaster!”
The meeting hall was filled with applause and cheers. It was customary for all members to give a hearty welcome to any new member of the Titans of Justice.
“To what do we owe the pleasure of having the Sportsmaster on our team?” asked Wonder Man who was concerned about more competition being added to draw the ladies attention.
“I was on patrol when I was attacked by five men in black. I underestimated them at first because they didn’t seem to be able to stand up against my hot and cold blasts. But then they started replicating and suddenly things got really scary! I was doing fine until they started disappearing. With my heat powers I was still able to detect them, but there were just so many of them coming after me from all different direction. Then some civilians got in the way, and in trying to help them I was completely surrounded. Just as they were about to start beating on me, the Sportsmaster showed up and really clobbered them. It was amazing!” explained the leader of the Titans of Justice.
“Actually, we worked as a team. I had been chasing these guys for a few days. I couldn’t have done it without you, Celsius!” said the Sportsmaster. “I really appreciate you all accepting me like this. I am just new at the crime fighting game and I could use the training and experience!”
Venus seemed to float across the floor as she walked sensually to greet the newest member. “It is a pleasure to have you on board.” she said while thinking “He is tall and strong, but not as handsome and sweet as Palomé!” Venus started to reminisce on her date with Palomé from the night before. The two had gone to a festive soul-food restaurant downtown. While Palomé had claimed to be pure trailer-trash, he had treated Venus like a complete genltmen. This was something she was not used to after being a pole-dancer for the last few years.
Strato Hawk was the next to greet the Sportsmaster. “Its good to have you here, SM! Maybe we can go out on patrol together sometime!”
“That sounds really great!” replied the Sportsmaster.
Power Guy, Wonder Man, and Junjie Quick all eagerly welcomed the Sportsmaster. Nucleus offered a strong handshake, but seemed distant and preoccupied. After the group enjoyed cookies and lemonade they each went their separate ways. Some went home. Others went out on missions. A few went to their private quarters. Nucleus went to the monitoring boards.
The Sportsmaster approached the only member who hadn’t shook his hand. “Hello, I am pleased to meet you…I didn’t catch your name?”
“My name is Palomé. I am also new to this team…no offense, but…why did you take the code name of a villain?”
“Oh, that!” the Sportsmaster said with a laugh, “I think it sends a message to the bad guys! Look at Dr. Light…and how about the Huntress? Some of the finest heroes around have done the same thing!”
“I see.” said Palomé dryly.
“Excuse me, but have I done something to offend you?” asked the Sportsmaster.
“No, no” replied Palomé, “I just have empathic abilities and sometimes I just sense things about people. I apologize for not being very welcoming…”
“…oh…I understand” said the Sportsmaster, “…well, I guess I can see why you would feel a little nervous about a new member. Maybe I just have bad blood. I know my father and sister really aren’t very nice people. That is part of the reason that I have dedicated myself to making this world a better place. Perhaps I am a little bit like them…and that is what you sense in me?”
“That’s probably it,” considered Palomé. “If you will excuse me I need to go and meditate.” The Sportsmaster stared intently as his strange teammate exited the room.
________________________________________________
Monitor Duty
Nucleus knew better than to let the others know just how much he enjoyed monitor duty. Free access to the Hall of Justice library, files, and computers was a dream come true for Jason. His parents had pushed him into entering into nuclear physics and use his amazing brain to help humanity while making some big money. But Jason could care less about all that money. Studying under Ray Palmer had opened worlds of opportunities that his parents dare not even dream of. Becoming Nucleus was the best thing that ever happened to Jason…
…until recently when a team member had been mercilessly slain by Mordru. Nucleus had never witnessed such a horrible sight in all his life. Suddenly, having a photographic memory seemed like the biggest burden in the world. Jason opened the Hall of Justice membership records to the Vibe files. Jason felt guilty. He had never taken the time to get to know poor Vibe. But Jason wasn’t the type to wallow in depression and decided that Vibe’s death would not be in vain. Jason whispered a promise to himself and to his late teammate, “I vow to get to know all of my teammates, so that I can be a better team member and always be ready to help them.” Nucleus looked through several files noting strengths and weaknesses. He wanted to be there for his friends if they were ever in need. After about forty-five minutes he left the Hall of Justice console to use the restroom. He was only away a few minutes, but unfortunately that was plenty of time for an uninvited invisible guest to copy all of the membership files on disc.
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Gotham City
“…and the prizes for the Gotham City annual archery contest include a gold medal, a certificate signed by sponsors Nicholas Martin and Bruce Wayne, and a check for fifty thousand dollars! This afternoon it is my privilege to announce that by unanimous decision of the panel of judges the winner of the Gotham City Archery contest is: DIGGER ANDREWS!”
The crowd at the Gotham City stadium roared as Australian exchange student Digger Andrews walked proudly to the podium. Spectator Helena Wayne rose to her feet sparking a standing ovation as Nicholas Martin placed the medal around Digger’s neck. As Bruce Wayne awarded the check to the stately champion, spectator Brendan Grayson said to his companion, “Uncle Bruce sure has done a lot of good for Gotham since he retired from being you-know-who.”
“I am really proud of him.” replied Helena as the ceremony finished, “Our work as Nightvision and the Huntress has really freed up mom and dad to do their charity works. I am really glad that Digger won this competition. Of course, nobody else really stood a chance against him.”
“How do you know him anyway, Helena?” asked her tall, clean-shaven, dark-haired companion.
“He was a target in the recent night stalker serial killings. I saw him practicing in the rain in the middle of the night.” explained Helena.
“You had something to do with that?” asked Brendan in surprise.
“If only you knew…Can you keep a secret?” she asked. Brendan affirmed with a nod. “Promise?” she asked in a more serious tone.
“Yes, of course.” he said with mounting curiosity.
“That Nightstalker-jerk? He broke in my apartment,” she explained as the two began walking down a steep stairway, “Don’t worry…if he were going to reveal my secret identity, I think he would have already done it, but I am a little concerned. He has invisibility and self-replication powers…and something strange happened two nights ago. One of my crossbows disappeared. Several of my knock-out darts are missing too…”
“If he has those kinds of abilities, he could be both in prison and out at the same time.” said Nightvision.
“Exactly.” replied the Huntress. Then suddenly Brendan tripped and began tumbling down the staircase. The acrobat launched himself into the air and did a triple flip in an effort to break his fall. Just before he landed he shouted out in agony and landed unconscious at the bottom of the stairs. Helena rushed to his side noting that his right leg was broken. Upon further investigation she saw a small red-colored dart in Nightvision’s neck. Plucking it out with a tissue paper she held it up to the afternoon sun. “One of mine.” she said with a grimace.
________________________________________________
INDIA
“When you said you were taking me out for Indian again I didn’t think that you meant that we were actually going all the way to India!” exclaimed a raven-haired beauty.
“I thought a change of pace would be nice.” replied her bald suitor with a smile.
As the young couple strolled they enjoyed the exotic beauty of India. Coconut palms, exotic trees featuring beautiful magenta colored flowers, and bamboo framed the pathway to the restaurant Daniel Jordan had chosen for their second date.
“I like it here…and I love this sari you bought for me.” she said referring to the gold and turquoise colored garments she wore. Daniel sported a blue long-sleeved collared shirt and gray slacks. People gazed at the handsome couple as they continued along the narrow pathway. Seeing a bench on the side of the way, Sargona led Daniel and the two were seated.
“Look, Dan…I wanted to apologize for what happened…” she began.
“It wasn’t your fault.” interrupted her tall companion.
“..but it was…and it was foolish to go on a date in uniform like that…and it was downright stupid to exchange weapons in public.” she admitted.
Daniel was silent.
“…what?” she asked. After an uncomfortably long pause she insisted, “WHAT?”
“I…I wasn’t going to say anything, but…well, I was called before the Guardians of the Universe…they’re my bosses. They are the ones who gave me this ring…When Mordru captured us the Guardians sent out another Green Lantern to search for me. My dad and all the Lanterns in the neighboring space sectors were tied up with cases. A newbie from three sectors away had to come looking for me and he got lost and his ring ran out of its charge. So then they had to send out a search party for him…and it’s just a big mess.”
Sargona covered her mouth with the tips of her fingers as she listened. “I’m so sorry!”
“…and when they found out about Vibe…” Daniel swallowed hard.
“…Sargona…I am on probation for one whole year.”
“Oh no!” exclaimed Sargona. “What did your father say?”
“He was cool about it. He said, “Like father, like son.” He says that he has been on probation at six different times during his career as a Green Lantern…
…so…how did your dad take it?” asked Green Lantern.
“Dan, I don’t know if this is the right time…” she said.
“It’s okay. Just say it.” he insisted.
“Well…he’s TICKED. He went off on a long rant about irresponsibility, and about how he never allowed anyone to touch the ruby, and about frolicking in public, and…it was long and his face was red…and I cried for three hours straight…and…” she stopped.
“…AND?” Daniel asked.
“…aaaaannnnd…he wants to meet you…alone.” she said with her head bowed. Daniel began searching through his pockets. “Are you looking for something?”
“uh, yeah! Do you got any Tylenol on you?” he asked.
The stress-stricken couple laughed as a silent observer listened from a nearby bush.
________________________________________________
Star City, The Queen Estate
Standing on the edge the Queen family’s private recreation center, Robert Queen prepared himself mentally for the jump. It had been nearly eighteen months since he almost died from a fall in a fight with Sinestro. He and his sister had been practicing falling for ten months now. Sometimes their buddy Daniel Jordan joined them. This would be Robert’s first time to try surviving a fall from five stories high. He would never admit it to his sister, but he was a little nervous.
“Are you sure about this, Robert?” shouted his sister from the ground.
“Just stay out of the way so I don’t land on you.” barked Robert. He concentrated for another moment and jumped. Early into the fall he shot his new “net arrow” which connected to the building and two nearby trees. Bouncing off the net he did an aerial summersault and landed on the ground in perfect Olympic form.
“A perfect TEN!” shouted Di Di as she hugged her brother. “My turn!”
“What!?!” shouted Robert in surprise.
“Look, bro’, working with the Titans of Justice is every bit as dangerous as being attacked by Sinestro, and you know it!” explained Sonic Boom.
“I don’t understand why you insist on working with them anyway.” challenged her brother.
“We do a lot of good for a lot of people. I am carrying on a legacy of justice.” defended the lovely blonde as the two started climbing up the stairway.
“Don’t make me barf,” chastised her brother, “Are you sure you didn’t join the Titans because he’s there? Would you stay if Danny-boy quit?”
“I joined the Titans of Justice because I believe in what they stand for: JUSTICE!" she said with an offended look, "Besides, Daniel is already seeing someone else.”
“You mean that flake, Sargona? It’ll never last. The way I hear it, she is the one who asked him out. He needs to stand up, admit that he is desperately in love with you…” insisted Dark Arrow.
Sonic Boom elbowed her brother in the ribs for that one.
“(cough, cough)…and ask you out like a MAN!” he said with a grin.
“You're a first class jerk, you know it?” she said with a blush.
“Yeah, I know…” he answered, “…but that doesn’t mean I’m not right.” he said smiling directly in her face.
“Well, in any case, you just need to understand two things:” she warned, “One, if you ever say anything to Daniel about this I will personally kick you off this building, and two, nothing could ever make me leave the Titans of Justice!”
Having made herself sufficiently clear, Sonic Boom made the five-story jump using acrobatics and her canary cry to soften a perfect landing.
“TEN!!!!” shouted Dark Arrow.
________________________________________________
New York, Radu’s Café
“We should have done this a long time ago.” said Black Vulcan.
“We’ll make it our tradition. How does every other week sound?” asked Venus.
“Sounds like a plan to me! I could come to this café every day!” responded a pleased Black Vulcan.
“Isn’t that the truth!” replied Venus as the two lounged in plush seats outdoors overlooking a peaceful river. “So what do you think of the new team divisions with all of this Titans East and Titans West business?”
“I am just glad that Jemstone was transferred to the other team.” replied Black Vulcan, “I’m telling you the lady is dangerous! Did you know that she actually killed someone on one of our missions before you and I both joined?”
“Well, yes, I heard that, but wasn’t it an accident?” asked Venus.
“The lady is downright irresponsible an unfit to be a Titan of Justice!” insisted Black Vulcan. “There is no reason for such recklessness and I, for one, don’t think we should put up with it!”
The ladies continued to converse about clothing, food, men, and the beautiful scenery. Then after about twenty minutes Black Vulcan couldn’t take it anymore. “Okay: Spill it! I know you have news.” Black Vulcan put her cup down and leaned forward in anticipation.
Venus took a bite of her French pastry and placed it back on a dainty china saucer. “Earlier at the meeting today Celsius introduced a genuine hunk as the newest member of the Tee-oh-Jay!”
“No! Get out! Really? What’s he like?” said Black Vulcan in excitement.
“He’s called “The Sportsmaster” and he wears this, like, really mysterious mask. Nice attitude too! Apparently he saved Celsius’ behind from being kicked by a bunch of invisible men.” explained Venus.
“Invisible men? Are you serious?” asked Black Vulcan.
“As a heart attack!” affirmed Venus, “He wears a baseball uniform and cap and carries a bat.”
“Sounds scary...in a macho kind of way...” observed Black Vulcan.
“He's definitely a hunk…but not as hunky as say, Celsius, or that other new guy.” said Venus.
“You mean the one with the irresistibly huge chest? What’s his name?” asked Black Vulcan.
“Palomé. I just love saying it! Palomé, Palomé, Palomé…” sung Venus as she gazed in the clouds.
“Girl, you almost as bad as Sargona about the Green Lantern! By the way, did you hear the news?”
“…Palom…news?” squeaked Venus.
“Guess who went to China today on their second date?” asked Black Vulcan.
“China?” asked a puzzled Venus, “Why’d they go to China?”
“Beats me! But if you ask me, things have been a lot more peaceful since GL has gotten that little witch’s attention. The more often they go out the better!” exclaimed Black Vulcan. “I say let them settle down in Hong Kong never to be heard from again...
...call me Thunderdawg...” muttered Black Vulcan under her breath.
“Maybe the two of them could start a new branch of the Titans of Justice! Titans Far East!” joked Venus.
“I’ll drink to that!” said Black Vulcan as two teacups met each other in the air with a
“clink!”
________________________________________________
SINGAPORE
Junjie Quick was a quiet and unassuming man. He was loyal and selfless. Though based out of Keystone City he had been patrolling Asia for three months now. His heart was burdened for the Far East ever since a conversation he had with Lady Light a few months earlier. As he patrolled Singapore he thought about the team he had allied himself with. He liked the idea of being part of a team, learning from others like himself, but he also liked offering his services as a speedster internationally. Recent developments had him questioning his future with the the Titans of Justice. The recent division of teams hadn’t settled well with him. He thought that starting a second branch of the team in another location was brilliant, but he questioned the reasoning behind assigning members to Titans East or Titans West without consulting the individual heroes first. Junjie fully believed in following authority and he thought the leaders did an excellent job of choosing who should be on each team, but no one is infallible. Surely someday a poor decision would be made that would affect the whole team adversely.
On his third lap through Sinapore, Junjie’s thoughts turned to the new additions to the “Titans East.” “Palomé seems like a good guy though his powers are a little frightenng . But what kind of a hero carries a baseball bat as his main weapon? What does the Sportsmaster plan on doing with it, anyway?” thought the young speedster, “I am glad he’s on our side. I sure wouldn’t want him for an enemy!”
As Junjie Quick began his seventh jog around beautiful Singapore his mind turned to some of the tempting offers made to him by various Asian governments. He wondered what his teammates would think if they knew that the governments of Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand had all made tempting lucrative offers to Junjie to concentrate is heroic efforts in their region. Junjie had yet to make any close friends in the Titans of Justice and wondered whom he could talk with about all of these things. Lady Light seemed to have a good head on her shoulders…
Entering a major business district of the city he noticed a group of suspicious looking men stalking a reputable banking corporation. Noting that they were all clad in black, Junjie remembered the earlier report of Celsius and the Sportsmaster. To his shock they all suddenly vanished as he approached the building.
WHAK! “Ugghhh!!!” BAM! PAK! “Nngggghhh!!!!” Swiiiiiiishhhhhhhhh….WHAK! “AAAAAARRGGGGHHHH!!!!!”
Excruciating pain overcame Junjie as he fell to the ground. He knew that he could be facing imminent death if he didn’t act wisely and immediately. He still had the use of his right leg, so he stood whirled about at super-speed. The resulting whirlwind created a buffer-zone that would keep his attackers at a distance. He depressing the signal device on his Titans of Justice communicator with his one good arm, “Junjie Quick to any Titan: Urgent Request for Assistance in Singapore. I am being attacked by the same group that attacked Celsius. Warning to all Titans: The Titans of Justice are being targeted! Repeat: We are under attack!”
To be continued…
Written by: Green Lantern
Co-conspirator/Editor: Power Guy
Metropolis, U.S.A….
“Soaring over the sunny skies of Metropolis, the mighty Power Lad patrols the villain infested city below insuring that planet earth is a safe place for children to play. Little do civilians below know that their beloved hero is once again being tortured through the endless lectures of his self-righteous side-kick: Power-puff Guy!” thought Power Lad.
“…and another thing,” continued Power Guy, “You have become a loose cannon! You’re dangerous! I’m afraid that someone is going to get hurt soon if you don’t change your ways!”
“…blah, blah, BLAH!” interrupted Power Lad. “The bad guys deserve what they get. People like you and your friends in the Titans of Justice are wasting your time. First, you capture said bad guy, only to turn him over to the authorities…and then what happens? He escapes to rob another bank and kill another guard! You people are pathetic and it’s starting to get on my nerves!”
“We have to abide by the law.” insisted Power Guy.
“Then GET A JOB with the police department and leave super-baddies to REAL warriors who are willing to do what it takes to get the job done!” shouted Power Lad.
“…even if it means KILLING?” challenged Power Guy.
“HELLOoooooooo!?!!” said Power Lad in irritation, “Every bad guy on the loose puts normal, law abiding citizens in constant danger. Murderers and super-villains should be the ones on the endangered species list, not moms and kids!”
“But if we kill them, then we're also murderers and no better than them!” reasoned Power Guy as he noticed a girl crying in Central Metropolis Park.
“No, PG. Ridding society of killers makes us heroes.” said Power Lad as the two landed near the young child.
“What’s the matter, honey?” asked Power Guy as he wiped the tears of the little girl.
“My cat is up there and I can’t reach her,” she said pointing to a nearby tree.
“Don’t worry, we’ll get her!” reassured Power Guy as he motioned to Power Lad to do the honors.
Power Lad rolled his eyes as he rescued the cat. “Got some news for ‘ya kid! Your cat’s not a she, it’s a he.” he said as he tossed the kitten to Power Guy.
“CAREFUL!” shouted Power Guy as he flew up to catch the kitten. “Here you go, honey!”
“Thanks, Superman! You’re the best!” she said with a beaming face.
“Superman?” wondered Power Guy.
“I don’t have time for saving animals, PG. The days of Microsoft Power Lad are over. Get ready for the all-new HARDCORE Power Lad!”
“You’re making a mistake…” started Power Guy.
“Save the lecture, Power Puff!” interrupted Hardcore Power Lad, “I am going to go practice air-surfing on my dad’s new super-speed turbo surfboard. It can cross and ocean in just fifteen minutes!” he said as he flew away.
An invisible witness watched until Power Guy was safely gone, and then paid the young girl for pretending the kitten was hers. Afterwards, he followed Power Lad via the tracker he placed on his boot during the rescue.
________________________________________________
The Hall of Justice…
“I appreciate all of you coming to this meeting on such short notice,” said Celsius with his hand on the shoulder of a man dressed in a sports outfit. “I only wish the whole crew could be here for this. I would like to introduce you to the newest member of the Titans of Justice: The Sportsmaster!”
The meeting hall was filled with applause and cheers. It was customary for all members to give a hearty welcome to any new member of the Titans of Justice.
“To what do we owe the pleasure of having the Sportsmaster on our team?” asked Wonder Man who was concerned about more competition being added to draw the ladies attention.
“I was on patrol when I was attacked by five men in black. I underestimated them at first because they didn’t seem to be able to stand up against my hot and cold blasts. But then they started replicating and suddenly things got really scary! I was doing fine until they started disappearing. With my heat powers I was still able to detect them, but there were just so many of them coming after me from all different direction. Then some civilians got in the way, and in trying to help them I was completely surrounded. Just as they were about to start beating on me, the Sportsmaster showed up and really clobbered them. It was amazing!” explained the leader of the Titans of Justice.
“Actually, we worked as a team. I had been chasing these guys for a few days. I couldn’t have done it without you, Celsius!” said the Sportsmaster. “I really appreciate you all accepting me like this. I am just new at the crime fighting game and I could use the training and experience!”
Venus seemed to float across the floor as she walked sensually to greet the newest member. “It is a pleasure to have you on board.” she said while thinking “He is tall and strong, but not as handsome and sweet as Palomé!” Venus started to reminisce on her date with Palomé from the night before. The two had gone to a festive soul-food restaurant downtown. While Palomé had claimed to be pure trailer-trash, he had treated Venus like a complete genltmen. This was something she was not used to after being a pole-dancer for the last few years.
Strato Hawk was the next to greet the Sportsmaster. “Its good to have you here, SM! Maybe we can go out on patrol together sometime!”
“That sounds really great!” replied the Sportsmaster.
Power Guy, Wonder Man, and Junjie Quick all eagerly welcomed the Sportsmaster. Nucleus offered a strong handshake, but seemed distant and preoccupied. After the group enjoyed cookies and lemonade they each went their separate ways. Some went home. Others went out on missions. A few went to their private quarters. Nucleus went to the monitoring boards.
The Sportsmaster approached the only member who hadn’t shook his hand. “Hello, I am pleased to meet you…I didn’t catch your name?”
“My name is Palomé. I am also new to this team…no offense, but…why did you take the code name of a villain?”
“Oh, that!” the Sportsmaster said with a laugh, “I think it sends a message to the bad guys! Look at Dr. Light…and how about the Huntress? Some of the finest heroes around have done the same thing!”
“I see.” said Palomé dryly.
“Excuse me, but have I done something to offend you?” asked the Sportsmaster.
“No, no” replied Palomé, “I just have empathic abilities and sometimes I just sense things about people. I apologize for not being very welcoming…”
“…oh…I understand” said the Sportsmaster, “…well, I guess I can see why you would feel a little nervous about a new member. Maybe I just have bad blood. I know my father and sister really aren’t very nice people. That is part of the reason that I have dedicated myself to making this world a better place. Perhaps I am a little bit like them…and that is what you sense in me?”
“That’s probably it,” considered Palomé. “If you will excuse me I need to go and meditate.” The Sportsmaster stared intently as his strange teammate exited the room.
________________________________________________
Monitor Duty
Nucleus knew better than to let the others know just how much he enjoyed monitor duty. Free access to the Hall of Justice library, files, and computers was a dream come true for Jason. His parents had pushed him into entering into nuclear physics and use his amazing brain to help humanity while making some big money. But Jason could care less about all that money. Studying under Ray Palmer had opened worlds of opportunities that his parents dare not even dream of. Becoming Nucleus was the best thing that ever happened to Jason…
…until recently when a team member had been mercilessly slain by Mordru. Nucleus had never witnessed such a horrible sight in all his life. Suddenly, having a photographic memory seemed like the biggest burden in the world. Jason opened the Hall of Justice membership records to the Vibe files. Jason felt guilty. He had never taken the time to get to know poor Vibe. But Jason wasn’t the type to wallow in depression and decided that Vibe’s death would not be in vain. Jason whispered a promise to himself and to his late teammate, “I vow to get to know all of my teammates, so that I can be a better team member and always be ready to help them.” Nucleus looked through several files noting strengths and weaknesses. He wanted to be there for his friends if they were ever in need. After about forty-five minutes he left the Hall of Justice console to use the restroom. He was only away a few minutes, but unfortunately that was plenty of time for an uninvited invisible guest to copy all of the membership files on disc.
________________________________________________
Gotham City
“…and the prizes for the Gotham City annual archery contest include a gold medal, a certificate signed by sponsors Nicholas Martin and Bruce Wayne, and a check for fifty thousand dollars! This afternoon it is my privilege to announce that by unanimous decision of the panel of judges the winner of the Gotham City Archery contest is: DIGGER ANDREWS!”
The crowd at the Gotham City stadium roared as Australian exchange student Digger Andrews walked proudly to the podium. Spectator Helena Wayne rose to her feet sparking a standing ovation as Nicholas Martin placed the medal around Digger’s neck. As Bruce Wayne awarded the check to the stately champion, spectator Brendan Grayson said to his companion, “Uncle Bruce sure has done a lot of good for Gotham since he retired from being you-know-who.”
“I am really proud of him.” replied Helena as the ceremony finished, “Our work as Nightvision and the Huntress has really freed up mom and dad to do their charity works. I am really glad that Digger won this competition. Of course, nobody else really stood a chance against him.”
“How do you know him anyway, Helena?” asked her tall, clean-shaven, dark-haired companion.
“He was a target in the recent night stalker serial killings. I saw him practicing in the rain in the middle of the night.” explained Helena.
“You had something to do with that?” asked Brendan in surprise.
“If only you knew…Can you keep a secret?” she asked. Brendan affirmed with a nod. “Promise?” she asked in a more serious tone.
“Yes, of course.” he said with mounting curiosity.
“That Nightstalker-jerk? He broke in my apartment,” she explained as the two began walking down a steep stairway, “Don’t worry…if he were going to reveal my secret identity, I think he would have already done it, but I am a little concerned. He has invisibility and self-replication powers…and something strange happened two nights ago. One of my crossbows disappeared. Several of my knock-out darts are missing too…”
“If he has those kinds of abilities, he could be both in prison and out at the same time.” said Nightvision.
“Exactly.” replied the Huntress. Then suddenly Brendan tripped and began tumbling down the staircase. The acrobat launched himself into the air and did a triple flip in an effort to break his fall. Just before he landed he shouted out in agony and landed unconscious at the bottom of the stairs. Helena rushed to his side noting that his right leg was broken. Upon further investigation she saw a small red-colored dart in Nightvision’s neck. Plucking it out with a tissue paper she held it up to the afternoon sun. “One of mine.” she said with a grimace.
________________________________________________
INDIA
“When you said you were taking me out for Indian again I didn’t think that you meant that we were actually going all the way to India!” exclaimed a raven-haired beauty.
“I thought a change of pace would be nice.” replied her bald suitor with a smile.
As the young couple strolled they enjoyed the exotic beauty of India. Coconut palms, exotic trees featuring beautiful magenta colored flowers, and bamboo framed the pathway to the restaurant Daniel Jordan had chosen for their second date.
“I like it here…and I love this sari you bought for me.” she said referring to the gold and turquoise colored garments she wore. Daniel sported a blue long-sleeved collared shirt and gray slacks. People gazed at the handsome couple as they continued along the narrow pathway. Seeing a bench on the side of the way, Sargona led Daniel and the two were seated.
“Look, Dan…I wanted to apologize for what happened…” she began.
“It wasn’t your fault.” interrupted her tall companion.
“..but it was…and it was foolish to go on a date in uniform like that…and it was downright stupid to exchange weapons in public.” she admitted.
Daniel was silent.
“…what?” she asked. After an uncomfortably long pause she insisted, “WHAT?”
“I…I wasn’t going to say anything, but…well, I was called before the Guardians of the Universe…they’re my bosses. They are the ones who gave me this ring…When Mordru captured us the Guardians sent out another Green Lantern to search for me. My dad and all the Lanterns in the neighboring space sectors were tied up with cases. A newbie from three sectors away had to come looking for me and he got lost and his ring ran out of its charge. So then they had to send out a search party for him…and it’s just a big mess.”
Sargona covered her mouth with the tips of her fingers as she listened. “I’m so sorry!”
“…and when they found out about Vibe…” Daniel swallowed hard.
“…Sargona…I am on probation for one whole year.”
“Oh no!” exclaimed Sargona. “What did your father say?”
“He was cool about it. He said, “Like father, like son.” He says that he has been on probation at six different times during his career as a Green Lantern…
…so…how did your dad take it?” asked Green Lantern.
“Dan, I don’t know if this is the right time…” she said.
“It’s okay. Just say it.” he insisted.
“Well…he’s TICKED. He went off on a long rant about irresponsibility, and about how he never allowed anyone to touch the ruby, and about frolicking in public, and…it was long and his face was red…and I cried for three hours straight…and…” she stopped.
“…AND?” Daniel asked.
“…aaaaannnnd…he wants to meet you…alone.” she said with her head bowed. Daniel began searching through his pockets. “Are you looking for something?”
“uh, yeah! Do you got any Tylenol on you?” he asked.
The stress-stricken couple laughed as a silent observer listened from a nearby bush.
________________________________________________
Star City, The Queen Estate
Standing on the edge the Queen family’s private recreation center, Robert Queen prepared himself mentally for the jump. It had been nearly eighteen months since he almost died from a fall in a fight with Sinestro. He and his sister had been practicing falling for ten months now. Sometimes their buddy Daniel Jordan joined them. This would be Robert’s first time to try surviving a fall from five stories high. He would never admit it to his sister, but he was a little nervous.
“Are you sure about this, Robert?” shouted his sister from the ground.
“Just stay out of the way so I don’t land on you.” barked Robert. He concentrated for another moment and jumped. Early into the fall he shot his new “net arrow” which connected to the building and two nearby trees. Bouncing off the net he did an aerial summersault and landed on the ground in perfect Olympic form.
“A perfect TEN!” shouted Di Di as she hugged her brother. “My turn!”
“What!?!” shouted Robert in surprise.
“Look, bro’, working with the Titans of Justice is every bit as dangerous as being attacked by Sinestro, and you know it!” explained Sonic Boom.
“I don’t understand why you insist on working with them anyway.” challenged her brother.
“We do a lot of good for a lot of people. I am carrying on a legacy of justice.” defended the lovely blonde as the two started climbing up the stairway.
“Don’t make me barf,” chastised her brother, “Are you sure you didn’t join the Titans because he’s there? Would you stay if Danny-boy quit?”
“I joined the Titans of Justice because I believe in what they stand for: JUSTICE!" she said with an offended look, "Besides, Daniel is already seeing someone else.”
“You mean that flake, Sargona? It’ll never last. The way I hear it, she is the one who asked him out. He needs to stand up, admit that he is desperately in love with you…” insisted Dark Arrow.
Sonic Boom elbowed her brother in the ribs for that one.
“(cough, cough)…and ask you out like a MAN!” he said with a grin.
“You're a first class jerk, you know it?” she said with a blush.
“Yeah, I know…” he answered, “…but that doesn’t mean I’m not right.” he said smiling directly in her face.
“Well, in any case, you just need to understand two things:” she warned, “One, if you ever say anything to Daniel about this I will personally kick you off this building, and two, nothing could ever make me leave the Titans of Justice!”
Having made herself sufficiently clear, Sonic Boom made the five-story jump using acrobatics and her canary cry to soften a perfect landing.
“TEN!!!!” shouted Dark Arrow.
________________________________________________
New York, Radu’s Café
“We should have done this a long time ago.” said Black Vulcan.
“We’ll make it our tradition. How does every other week sound?” asked Venus.
“Sounds like a plan to me! I could come to this café every day!” responded a pleased Black Vulcan.
“Isn’t that the truth!” replied Venus as the two lounged in plush seats outdoors overlooking a peaceful river. “So what do you think of the new team divisions with all of this Titans East and Titans West business?”
“I am just glad that Jemstone was transferred to the other team.” replied Black Vulcan, “I’m telling you the lady is dangerous! Did you know that she actually killed someone on one of our missions before you and I both joined?”
“Well, yes, I heard that, but wasn’t it an accident?” asked Venus.
“The lady is downright irresponsible an unfit to be a Titan of Justice!” insisted Black Vulcan. “There is no reason for such recklessness and I, for one, don’t think we should put up with it!”
The ladies continued to converse about clothing, food, men, and the beautiful scenery. Then after about twenty minutes Black Vulcan couldn’t take it anymore. “Okay: Spill it! I know you have news.” Black Vulcan put her cup down and leaned forward in anticipation.
Venus took a bite of her French pastry and placed it back on a dainty china saucer. “Earlier at the meeting today Celsius introduced a genuine hunk as the newest member of the Tee-oh-Jay!”
“No! Get out! Really? What’s he like?” said Black Vulcan in excitement.
“He’s called “The Sportsmaster” and he wears this, like, really mysterious mask. Nice attitude too! Apparently he saved Celsius’ behind from being kicked by a bunch of invisible men.” explained Venus.
“Invisible men? Are you serious?” asked Black Vulcan.
“As a heart attack!” affirmed Venus, “He wears a baseball uniform and cap and carries a bat.”
“Sounds scary...in a macho kind of way...” observed Black Vulcan.
“He's definitely a hunk…but not as hunky as say, Celsius, or that other new guy.” said Venus.
“You mean the one with the irresistibly huge chest? What’s his name?” asked Black Vulcan.
“Palomé. I just love saying it! Palomé, Palomé, Palomé…” sung Venus as she gazed in the clouds.
“Girl, you almost as bad as Sargona about the Green Lantern! By the way, did you hear the news?”
“…Palom…news?” squeaked Venus.
“Guess who went to China today on their second date?” asked Black Vulcan.
“China?” asked a puzzled Venus, “Why’d they go to China?”
“Beats me! But if you ask me, things have been a lot more peaceful since GL has gotten that little witch’s attention. The more often they go out the better!” exclaimed Black Vulcan. “I say let them settle down in Hong Kong never to be heard from again...
...call me Thunderdawg...” muttered Black Vulcan under her breath.
“Maybe the two of them could start a new branch of the Titans of Justice! Titans Far East!” joked Venus.
“I’ll drink to that!” said Black Vulcan as two teacups met each other in the air with a
“clink!”
________________________________________________
SINGAPORE
Junjie Quick was a quiet and unassuming man. He was loyal and selfless. Though based out of Keystone City he had been patrolling Asia for three months now. His heart was burdened for the Far East ever since a conversation he had with Lady Light a few months earlier. As he patrolled Singapore he thought about the team he had allied himself with. He liked the idea of being part of a team, learning from others like himself, but he also liked offering his services as a speedster internationally. Recent developments had him questioning his future with the the Titans of Justice. The recent division of teams hadn’t settled well with him. He thought that starting a second branch of the team in another location was brilliant, but he questioned the reasoning behind assigning members to Titans East or Titans West without consulting the individual heroes first. Junjie fully believed in following authority and he thought the leaders did an excellent job of choosing who should be on each team, but no one is infallible. Surely someday a poor decision would be made that would affect the whole team adversely.
On his third lap through Sinapore, Junjie’s thoughts turned to the new additions to the “Titans East.” “Palomé seems like a good guy though his powers are a little frightenng . But what kind of a hero carries a baseball bat as his main weapon? What does the Sportsmaster plan on doing with it, anyway?” thought the young speedster, “I am glad he’s on our side. I sure wouldn’t want him for an enemy!”
As Junjie Quick began his seventh jog around beautiful Singapore his mind turned to some of the tempting offers made to him by various Asian governments. He wondered what his teammates would think if they knew that the governments of Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand had all made tempting lucrative offers to Junjie to concentrate is heroic efforts in their region. Junjie had yet to make any close friends in the Titans of Justice and wondered whom he could talk with about all of these things. Lady Light seemed to have a good head on her shoulders…
Entering a major business district of the city he noticed a group of suspicious looking men stalking a reputable banking corporation. Noting that they were all clad in black, Junjie remembered the earlier report of Celsius and the Sportsmaster. To his shock they all suddenly vanished as he approached the building.
WHAK! “Ugghhh!!!” BAM! PAK! “Nngggghhh!!!!” Swiiiiiiishhhhhhhhh….WHAK! “AAAAAARRGGGGHHHH!!!!!”
Excruciating pain overcame Junjie as he fell to the ground. He knew that he could be facing imminent death if he didn’t act wisely and immediately. He still had the use of his right leg, so he stood whirled about at super-speed. The resulting whirlwind created a buffer-zone that would keep his attackers at a distance. He depressing the signal device on his Titans of Justice communicator with his one good arm, “Junjie Quick to any Titan: Urgent Request for Assistance in Singapore. I am being attacked by the same group that attacked Celsius. Warning to all Titans: The Titans of Justice are being targeted! Repeat: We are under attack!”
To be continued…