Post by Deleted on Mar 28, 2015 19:38:32 GMT -5
Justice League Issue 1: Pendulum
A special mini-series set in the ToJ universe! Hope you enjoy!
Written by: Texgnome1
Edited by: Power Guy
Special thanks to: Stranger for the original drawing he created. Hope it's okay that I use it once more.
A Secret Location
Grodd looked into the monitor and smiled. In spite of himself, he liked Brother Blood. He seemed to revel in his ability to be as disgusting as possible. Reverend Blood threw the cup to the floor, wiped the blood from his chin and replied.
"I don't think so Grodd. Of course I know where the Crime Bible can be found. But I like it right where it is. It is mine after all, since I conquered Intergang. I have no intention of honoring your request. You've given me no valid reasons why you need it. And quite honestly, it wouldn't do my image a bit of good to help you. Can you imagine what my worshippers would say if they knew I had any dealings with an over-evolved monkey? Especially one who sits hidden away in his widdle cave all day? Hahaha..."
Grodd was incensed, but managed to control his temper. "I wonder what your worshippers would say if they saw the video I made of your drink. Last chance to reconsider vampire. I asked as a favor, but I'm perfectly capable of getting it on my own. It was a professional courtesy. Don't mistake that for weakness."
"Grodd, if you really could get it, you would have done it by now. No wonder your species prefers to throw their own poop. And by all means, play the video. It was only dark wine. And my followers would not be so easily swayed in any case. Good day Grape Ape."
Tala came out of the shadow of Grodd's chair. "How DARE he speak to you that way, darling. He may be older, but he's still the same arrogant little brat. I should have teleported him here after his first insult!"
Grodd smiled. "Now now Tala. I knew very well what the result of this conversation would be. And I know exactly what Blood's next move will be. I WANT him to make that move. Trust me - all according to plan."
Tala was surprised. "I just can't see what the purpose of alerting him was. You do want the Bible do you not?"
Grodd closed his eyes and replied, "Oh yes, for more reasons than even you know. But I want Blood to show me exactly where it is. In his arrogance, he will move to do just that." Both of them let out a cold laugh as Grodd moved to reestablish one of his mental links.
Church of Humanity, Inner Citadel
"So Grodd wants the Crime Bible my dear?"
Blood replied, "Oh he wants it. But he's playing at something. I'm not sure what, and my insults aside, Grodd is not one to be underestimated. What do you think N…?"
"No no – don’t say my name. You know the rules. I think that between your forces and mine, and your ever expanding ministry, we'll soon have everything we want. But Grodd in possession of the Crime Bible is not a thought I want to consider."
"Agreed. There are risks, but I think we should move to recover it. Bring it where we can keep a closer eye on it. I don't doubt that is Grodd's intent, but he doesn't know about you. Or our alliance."
His female companion moved closer and stroked his chest. "Alliance? Is that all this is? I thought what we have together was much more... personal." She smiled seductively.
Pulling her towards the altar, he smiled. "My dear, you of all people should know. I never mix business, with pleasure. The Crime Bible can wait an hour... or two."
The Justice League - present location, ruins of Metropolis
Dark Arrow looked to his right. He knew that one neutron bomb had been detonated, and their enemies were threatening to detonate a second one if their demands were not met. Millions of lives had already been lost. He'd never realized until now how well Atmosphere's costume blended into the shadows. He could barely see his friend. Atmosphere pointed - the signal meant the others were in place. "Rapido, you're first. Give me a head count."
A gray and red blur ran past. Rapido didn't realize it, but Arrow knew he had the potential to be the fastest speedster in years. Rapido ran ahead, and came straight back to Dark Arrow. “I count 21 heavy enforcers, and at least 3 super-powered backups.” Dark Arrow was concerned. This was much more than they'd planned for. Just as he went to signal, all hell broke loose. The wall next to Rapido and himself was riddled with bullets.
"We're made. Plan B everyone." Dark Arrow broke into a run, and was caught and fired 3 arrows as he went around the corner. "Stellar, Airwave, move in. Air support please." Arrow narrowly dodged more bullets. He rounded the building's outside corner, and knew he was in trouble. Blockbuster's fist slammed into his ribs. He couldn't breathe. Just then, the wall next to him exploded. 60 Minute Soldier barreled headlong into Blockbuster, taking him off his feet. Stellar produced a hard light cage around Blockbuster's head. Soldier began raining blows on the confused behemoth. Between the two of them, Blockbuster was soon unconscious. Arrow moved forward, closely followed by the others.
"Is that you Arrow? And I see you brought your new "Just Us Legion" or whatever you're called. Pity. I'd hoped for some real competition."
Arrow fired three rounds in the direction of the voice. As he did, a huge explosion sent the others flying in all directions. He fell as a light beam cut clean through his left leg. "Aaarrgghh..." "Ah, did that hurt?" Arrow looked up to see Dr. Light standing over him. He was moving to shoot again when Arrow saw him go flying. Atmosphere had recovered, and blown him straight into Totem's waiting arms. "You're one sick freak." "Anaconda" Dr. Light struggled to breathe. Arrow could hear Stellar and Air Wave taking out the armored goons. It was hard not to hear them. Air Wave had cranked it up to 150 decibels. "Thank goodness for these ear plugs. Atmosphere look out!"
Atmosphere was so busy taking out Dr. Light he never heard her. He suffered a huge cut across his back as her staff slashed him, and was thrown across the pavement from her energy blast. "Haha - broiled eggplant. My favorite." Fatality had managed to sneak up on them. As Rapido and Dark Arrow responded, she fired a huge concussive blast. They went flying once again, and she took a lucky shot at Stellar who fell with a sick thud. She moved over to where Totem had just taken out Dr. Light. "I don't like you any better. Teaming up with Light of all people" Totem said. "Hey, a girl's gotta get her kicks." WHAM! Lt. Atom's foot slammed into Fatality's head, and a blast of radiation drained her completely. "Well, ask and you shall receive. Sorry - I was taking out the second bomb," he said as he helped Arrow to his feet. As he spoke, the entire area changed, resolving into a brightly lit training room. The team picked themselves up and the chatter commmenced. "Blockbuster. Dude took out Blockbuster." “Hehe – choked him right out. He turned as purple as Atmosphere’s tights!”
"Terrible! Terrible! Terrible! Everyone over here right now!" Toshio stormed in from the observation room. "Take a seat everyone and settle down. First, Atom, great job disarming the 2nd bomb. Or eating it I should say. Don't you get heartburn? Second, Sixty and Stellar, fantastic job. You worked together to make SURE Blockbuster was down. Now who wants to go first in the, Here's where I screwed the pooch department."
Dark Arrow spoke up, "Well, I let Light bait me. Firing off the arrows gave away our position." Toshio, "A wise man learns from his mistakes instead of dying from them. Next?"
Rapido replied, "I obviously was seen at some point. Dr. Light?" Toshio replied, "Ahh... the boy CAN be taught." Everyone laughed warmly, even Rapido. "Yes, keep in mind that there is ALWAYS someone faster, stronger, or more powerful. Simply being one of those things does not mean you don't have to be careful."
Totem answered this time, "I hope I can say this, but Atmosphere and I were so focused on Light we never even saw Fatality coming. Dark Arrow was too." Dark Arrow & Atmosphere both nodded their agreement. "Yes - if that had been the real thing, she would have skewered Atmosphere. I think that's enough for now. I'll send you all the films along with my analysis in 20 minutes. Dark Arrow, Atom, could I see you?"
Dark Arrow & Atom approached Toshio's podium. "What's up sensei?" Atom snickered under his breath. "Robert, what have I told you about that? It's Toshio. If you really want, Samurai. Sensei sounds like I'm really old. DON'T say it! It’d be a shame for you to be hurt by an old man. At any rate, a message came in for you two while you were in session. She said it was urgent."
"Who from? And why me? DA’s the team lead,” Atom said.
"An old friend of the both of you. Waller."
Watchtower Control Room
Lt. Atom and Dark Arrow walked into the control room. Arrow had seen Atmosphere make a beeline here as soon as the training was over. He really felt sorry for his friend. Atom Smasher may have fallen on hard times, but he was still family. Since his adopted uncle’s death, he had been spending every spare moment trying to track Black Orchid. He’d also been working on a program to track the top 10 most wanted villains. He seemed determined to bring them to justice.
Dark Arrow spoke gently, “Sorry to interrupt Al. We need to use the control room. In private.” Atmosphere nodded his understanding. He got up and exited without a word. “Hope this is just a phase DA. I’m almost starting to worry about him,” Atom said. “Don’t worry about him. He’ll be fine. He does this every time someone is attacked or killed by Black Orchid. He’s been working on a tracking program since she first reappeared. Heck, since before we even decided to reform the Justice League,” Arrow said. “We might as well get this over with,” said Arrow, “I’ll let you take the lead given your history with the old bat.” He punched in the secure code to call Waller. Atom barely recovered from laughing as she appeared on the screen.
"Good evening Ms. Waller. Good to see you again. What do you want?" Atom asked
"Straight to the point," she rasped. "I always liked that out of you. I need a favor."
Dark Arrow's jaw dropped. "You WHAT? After all the damage & grief you've caused for our predecessors and other heroes? I knew you had guts lady, but this takes the cake."
"Oh, you'll want to hear what I have to say. It's about the Crime Bible."
Dark Arrow furrowed his brow. He knew this was big, and knew it was a perfect opportunity for his team to score HUGE points. It'd also stick it to Nightvision's team in a major way. "I'm listening."
Waller smiled. "I knew that would get your attention. We've received a tip that it's being moved. Tomorrow, as a matter of fact. If we could recover it, it would be a major blow to a great many organized crime groups."
"I'll say" replied Atom. "That thing has resulted in some of the worst defeats heroes have suffered for nearly 30 years. Why is it being moved now?”
“And what's the catch. With you, there's always a catch." Arrow broke in, "And why not send your cronies in the Squad after it. Or the many forces at your disposal? Makes me think it’s a trap."
Arrow could tell he had touched a nerve. Waller visibly stiffened, and he knew she was considering how best to reply. "First off bow boy, if I wanted to trap you, you’d already be trapped. As it so happens, I want your team to succeed. Nightvision and those Titans have already proven themselves to be a liability. As for the Bible, it’s in the hands of a rather... influential person. He's donated so much money to various campaigns that he's considered untouchable. He practically owns at least 2 congressional committees, and has influence on a dozen others.”
Atom broke in, “And you’ve been ordered to stay away from him. Dare I ask who?”
“That would be the oh so wonderful Reverend Sebastian Blood.”
Dark Arrow nearly choked. He had suspected as much, but hearing her say it made his heart drop. But he felt a tickle at the back of his brain and knew this was he right thing to do. “I’ll have to talk it over with the team. This isn’t something we can rush into. I’ll let you know,” he told Waller. “Arrow out.”
Atom was up before the screen was completely off. “Arrow, you can’t possibly trust her. If we win, she’s going to wind up with the Crime Bible.”
“Yeah, we’ll make a LOT of allies, and have a major victory under our belts. But if we lose…” Dark Arrow thought for a second and continued, “I know. Either way, we make an extremely powerful enemy. We’re going to need to talk to the others. I may be leader, but I can’t make this decision. It’s simply too big.”
Watchtower Meeting Room
After the briefing, Dark Arrow spoke. “So that’s it. Evidently, he’s pretty comfortable in his ability to move this thing. He knows the Titans are too busy to bother. And those in the military who could oppose him have been ordered to back off. He’s not even making his plans that big of a secret. But make no mistake – he’ll be prepared. The Bible NEEDS to be recovered. And if it reaches his little citadel, there will be no chance of that. So I’ll ask for a show of hands.”
Dark Arrow had never been prouder. Each and every one of his teammates raised their hands. “Okay, I’ll let the Wall know. I’m also going to have backup standing by in case of an emergency. Toshio, we’re going to need as many different simulations as you can dream up.”
A Secret Location
“Is the plan in motion my dear?” Tala asked. Grodd smiled – a huge toothy grin. “Oh yes my dear. Better than you could possibly imagine. Tell the others to make sure to be here tomorrow night. They’ll kick themselves if they miss this show. And tell them to bring popcorn. LOTS of it.”
A special mini-series set in the ToJ universe! Hope you enjoy!
Written by: Texgnome1
Edited by: Power Guy
Special thanks to: Stranger for the original drawing he created. Hope it's okay that I use it once more.
A Secret Location
Grodd looked into the monitor and smiled. In spite of himself, he liked Brother Blood. He seemed to revel in his ability to be as disgusting as possible. Reverend Blood threw the cup to the floor, wiped the blood from his chin and replied.
"I don't think so Grodd. Of course I know where the Crime Bible can be found. But I like it right where it is. It is mine after all, since I conquered Intergang. I have no intention of honoring your request. You've given me no valid reasons why you need it. And quite honestly, it wouldn't do my image a bit of good to help you. Can you imagine what my worshippers would say if they knew I had any dealings with an over-evolved monkey? Especially one who sits hidden away in his widdle cave all day? Hahaha..."
Grodd was incensed, but managed to control his temper. "I wonder what your worshippers would say if they saw the video I made of your drink. Last chance to reconsider vampire. I asked as a favor, but I'm perfectly capable of getting it on my own. It was a professional courtesy. Don't mistake that for weakness."
"Grodd, if you really could get it, you would have done it by now. No wonder your species prefers to throw their own poop. And by all means, play the video. It was only dark wine. And my followers would not be so easily swayed in any case. Good day Grape Ape."
Tala came out of the shadow of Grodd's chair. "How DARE he speak to you that way, darling. He may be older, but he's still the same arrogant little brat. I should have teleported him here after his first insult!"
Grodd smiled. "Now now Tala. I knew very well what the result of this conversation would be. And I know exactly what Blood's next move will be. I WANT him to make that move. Trust me - all according to plan."
Tala was surprised. "I just can't see what the purpose of alerting him was. You do want the Bible do you not?"
Grodd closed his eyes and replied, "Oh yes, for more reasons than even you know. But I want Blood to show me exactly where it is. In his arrogance, he will move to do just that." Both of them let out a cold laugh as Grodd moved to reestablish one of his mental links.
Church of Humanity, Inner Citadel
"So Grodd wants the Crime Bible my dear?"
Blood replied, "Oh he wants it. But he's playing at something. I'm not sure what, and my insults aside, Grodd is not one to be underestimated. What do you think N…?"
"No no – don’t say my name. You know the rules. I think that between your forces and mine, and your ever expanding ministry, we'll soon have everything we want. But Grodd in possession of the Crime Bible is not a thought I want to consider."
"Agreed. There are risks, but I think we should move to recover it. Bring it where we can keep a closer eye on it. I don't doubt that is Grodd's intent, but he doesn't know about you. Or our alliance."
His female companion moved closer and stroked his chest. "Alliance? Is that all this is? I thought what we have together was much more... personal." She smiled seductively.
Pulling her towards the altar, he smiled. "My dear, you of all people should know. I never mix business, with pleasure. The Crime Bible can wait an hour... or two."
The Justice League - present location, ruins of Metropolis
Dark Arrow looked to his right. He knew that one neutron bomb had been detonated, and their enemies were threatening to detonate a second one if their demands were not met. Millions of lives had already been lost. He'd never realized until now how well Atmosphere's costume blended into the shadows. He could barely see his friend. Atmosphere pointed - the signal meant the others were in place. "Rapido, you're first. Give me a head count."
A gray and red blur ran past. Rapido didn't realize it, but Arrow knew he had the potential to be the fastest speedster in years. Rapido ran ahead, and came straight back to Dark Arrow. “I count 21 heavy enforcers, and at least 3 super-powered backups.” Dark Arrow was concerned. This was much more than they'd planned for. Just as he went to signal, all hell broke loose. The wall next to Rapido and himself was riddled with bullets.
"We're made. Plan B everyone." Dark Arrow broke into a run, and was caught and fired 3 arrows as he went around the corner. "Stellar, Airwave, move in. Air support please." Arrow narrowly dodged more bullets. He rounded the building's outside corner, and knew he was in trouble. Blockbuster's fist slammed into his ribs. He couldn't breathe. Just then, the wall next to him exploded. 60 Minute Soldier barreled headlong into Blockbuster, taking him off his feet. Stellar produced a hard light cage around Blockbuster's head. Soldier began raining blows on the confused behemoth. Between the two of them, Blockbuster was soon unconscious. Arrow moved forward, closely followed by the others.
"Is that you Arrow? And I see you brought your new "Just Us Legion" or whatever you're called. Pity. I'd hoped for some real competition."
Arrow fired three rounds in the direction of the voice. As he did, a huge explosion sent the others flying in all directions. He fell as a light beam cut clean through his left leg. "Aaarrgghh..." "Ah, did that hurt?" Arrow looked up to see Dr. Light standing over him. He was moving to shoot again when Arrow saw him go flying. Atmosphere had recovered, and blown him straight into Totem's waiting arms. "You're one sick freak." "Anaconda" Dr. Light struggled to breathe. Arrow could hear Stellar and Air Wave taking out the armored goons. It was hard not to hear them. Air Wave had cranked it up to 150 decibels. "Thank goodness for these ear plugs. Atmosphere look out!"
Atmosphere was so busy taking out Dr. Light he never heard her. He suffered a huge cut across his back as her staff slashed him, and was thrown across the pavement from her energy blast. "Haha - broiled eggplant. My favorite." Fatality had managed to sneak up on them. As Rapido and Dark Arrow responded, she fired a huge concussive blast. They went flying once again, and she took a lucky shot at Stellar who fell with a sick thud. She moved over to where Totem had just taken out Dr. Light. "I don't like you any better. Teaming up with Light of all people" Totem said. "Hey, a girl's gotta get her kicks." WHAM! Lt. Atom's foot slammed into Fatality's head, and a blast of radiation drained her completely. "Well, ask and you shall receive. Sorry - I was taking out the second bomb," he said as he helped Arrow to his feet. As he spoke, the entire area changed, resolving into a brightly lit training room. The team picked themselves up and the chatter commmenced. "Blockbuster. Dude took out Blockbuster." “Hehe – choked him right out. He turned as purple as Atmosphere’s tights!”
"Terrible! Terrible! Terrible! Everyone over here right now!" Toshio stormed in from the observation room. "Take a seat everyone and settle down. First, Atom, great job disarming the 2nd bomb. Or eating it I should say. Don't you get heartburn? Second, Sixty and Stellar, fantastic job. You worked together to make SURE Blockbuster was down. Now who wants to go first in the, Here's where I screwed the pooch department."
Dark Arrow spoke up, "Well, I let Light bait me. Firing off the arrows gave away our position." Toshio, "A wise man learns from his mistakes instead of dying from them. Next?"
Rapido replied, "I obviously was seen at some point. Dr. Light?" Toshio replied, "Ahh... the boy CAN be taught." Everyone laughed warmly, even Rapido. "Yes, keep in mind that there is ALWAYS someone faster, stronger, or more powerful. Simply being one of those things does not mean you don't have to be careful."
Totem answered this time, "I hope I can say this, but Atmosphere and I were so focused on Light we never even saw Fatality coming. Dark Arrow was too." Dark Arrow & Atmosphere both nodded their agreement. "Yes - if that had been the real thing, she would have skewered Atmosphere. I think that's enough for now. I'll send you all the films along with my analysis in 20 minutes. Dark Arrow, Atom, could I see you?"
Dark Arrow & Atom approached Toshio's podium. "What's up sensei?" Atom snickered under his breath. "Robert, what have I told you about that? It's Toshio. If you really want, Samurai. Sensei sounds like I'm really old. DON'T say it! It’d be a shame for you to be hurt by an old man. At any rate, a message came in for you two while you were in session. She said it was urgent."
"Who from? And why me? DA’s the team lead,” Atom said.
"An old friend of the both of you. Waller."
Watchtower Control Room
Lt. Atom and Dark Arrow walked into the control room. Arrow had seen Atmosphere make a beeline here as soon as the training was over. He really felt sorry for his friend. Atom Smasher may have fallen on hard times, but he was still family. Since his adopted uncle’s death, he had been spending every spare moment trying to track Black Orchid. He’d also been working on a program to track the top 10 most wanted villains. He seemed determined to bring them to justice.
Dark Arrow spoke gently, “Sorry to interrupt Al. We need to use the control room. In private.” Atmosphere nodded his understanding. He got up and exited without a word. “Hope this is just a phase DA. I’m almost starting to worry about him,” Atom said. “Don’t worry about him. He’ll be fine. He does this every time someone is attacked or killed by Black Orchid. He’s been working on a tracking program since she first reappeared. Heck, since before we even decided to reform the Justice League,” Arrow said. “We might as well get this over with,” said Arrow, “I’ll let you take the lead given your history with the old bat.” He punched in the secure code to call Waller. Atom barely recovered from laughing as she appeared on the screen.
"Good evening Ms. Waller. Good to see you again. What do you want?" Atom asked
"Straight to the point," she rasped. "I always liked that out of you. I need a favor."
Dark Arrow's jaw dropped. "You WHAT? After all the damage & grief you've caused for our predecessors and other heroes? I knew you had guts lady, but this takes the cake."
"Oh, you'll want to hear what I have to say. It's about the Crime Bible."
Dark Arrow furrowed his brow. He knew this was big, and knew it was a perfect opportunity for his team to score HUGE points. It'd also stick it to Nightvision's team in a major way. "I'm listening."
Waller smiled. "I knew that would get your attention. We've received a tip that it's being moved. Tomorrow, as a matter of fact. If we could recover it, it would be a major blow to a great many organized crime groups."
"I'll say" replied Atom. "That thing has resulted in some of the worst defeats heroes have suffered for nearly 30 years. Why is it being moved now?”
“And what's the catch. With you, there's always a catch." Arrow broke in, "And why not send your cronies in the Squad after it. Or the many forces at your disposal? Makes me think it’s a trap."
Arrow could tell he had touched a nerve. Waller visibly stiffened, and he knew she was considering how best to reply. "First off bow boy, if I wanted to trap you, you’d already be trapped. As it so happens, I want your team to succeed. Nightvision and those Titans have already proven themselves to be a liability. As for the Bible, it’s in the hands of a rather... influential person. He's donated so much money to various campaigns that he's considered untouchable. He practically owns at least 2 congressional committees, and has influence on a dozen others.”
Atom broke in, “And you’ve been ordered to stay away from him. Dare I ask who?”
“That would be the oh so wonderful Reverend Sebastian Blood.”
Dark Arrow nearly choked. He had suspected as much, but hearing her say it made his heart drop. But he felt a tickle at the back of his brain and knew this was he right thing to do. “I’ll have to talk it over with the team. This isn’t something we can rush into. I’ll let you know,” he told Waller. “Arrow out.”
Atom was up before the screen was completely off. “Arrow, you can’t possibly trust her. If we win, she’s going to wind up with the Crime Bible.”
“Yeah, we’ll make a LOT of allies, and have a major victory under our belts. But if we lose…” Dark Arrow thought for a second and continued, “I know. Either way, we make an extremely powerful enemy. We’re going to need to talk to the others. I may be leader, but I can’t make this decision. It’s simply too big.”
Watchtower Meeting Room
After the briefing, Dark Arrow spoke. “So that’s it. Evidently, he’s pretty comfortable in his ability to move this thing. He knows the Titans are too busy to bother. And those in the military who could oppose him have been ordered to back off. He’s not even making his plans that big of a secret. But make no mistake – he’ll be prepared. The Bible NEEDS to be recovered. And if it reaches his little citadel, there will be no chance of that. So I’ll ask for a show of hands.”
Dark Arrow had never been prouder. Each and every one of his teammates raised their hands. “Okay, I’ll let the Wall know. I’m also going to have backup standing by in case of an emergency. Toshio, we’re going to need as many different simulations as you can dream up.”
A Secret Location
“Is the plan in motion my dear?” Tala asked. Grodd smiled – a huge toothy grin. “Oh yes my dear. Better than you could possibly imagine. Tell the others to make sure to be here tomorrow night. They’ll kick themselves if they miss this show. And tell them to bring popcorn. LOTS of it.”