Titans of Justice Unlimited # 73 – “World War Justice - Epilogue"
Written by: Scotty2Hotty
Edited & Maxi-micros by: Power Guy


The White House…

“Please, have a seat.” The newly appointed President began. She shuffled some papers as Nemesis, Starman, and Dark Arrow took their seats. Life in Washington had been chaotic since Celsius’s infiltration of both the IADC and the White House. The murdered president had been buried, and the new leader of the United States, Angel O’Day had been sworn in. Angel was a former private detective who had given up sleuthing for a successful career in politics. In fact, she was one half of the detective team, Angel and the Ape. Despite having worked with a talking gorilla, she was a serious woman known for her caring demeanor yet firm stance on issues. Her silver hair was pulled back in a ponytail and she was dressed in a smart navy blue suit. Simple pearl jewelry completed her look. She handed Tom a folder.





“Tom, those are the results of the internal audit. A few of your agents will need some counseling due to the manipulations they suffered at the hands of Celsius, but otherwise you’ll find the structure unchanged. I am however, dissolving the interrogation protocols involving the…..more extreme methods.” She said referencing the brutal treatment of Starman, Goldbug, and Corporal Marvel. “Starman, how are you doing?”

Starman sat up straight in his chair. “I’m ok. Still healing, but otherwise ok.”





“Glad to hear it. Send your teammates my best for a speedy recovery.” She smiled. “I understand Goldbug has responded well to therapy and is trying to adjust.”

“He is. He’s not quite as carefree as he once was. Celsius had the agents really do a number on him, but his spirit is tough. Corporal Marvel’s too. “ Starman replied.

“Tom,” the President continued. “I’m impressed with Agent Trevor’s work. I remember her mother being an outstanding agent as well and Mindy Trevor has a bright career in front of her. Her clearance has been adjusted to just below yours and I’d like her to continue reporting to you.”

Tom smiled knowing he and Mindy would remain working together. “Yes ma’am.”





“Now, for the Titans. Both teams.” She said, opening a folder of extensive notes.

“Since we cannot pinpoint the exact time Celsius murdered the President, we have no way of knowing exactly when he assumed the President’s identity. From your debriefing, we know that Celsius used his powers to influence the Leader’s Council and other members of the UN. I see no reason for the Titans of Justice to remain disbanded. I have the official decree reinstating your charter.” She smiled, handing Starman a folder of official documents.

“Madame President, you don’t know how much this means. Thank you so much. And thank you to the Leader’s Council.” Starman said warmly.

Dark Arrow watched intently.

“Now we just have to find a place to meet….” Starman mused.

“About that.” President O’Day continued. “The loss of the Hall of Justice was indirectly a result of this office and our main intelligence office being compromised. We are fully prepared to build a new Hall of Justice, complete with the most up to date security. In fact, I have architects working up some plans now.”

“I can’t believe it!” Starman replied. “Thank you so much. On behalf of the entire team, we thank you.”

“Well, you all have done good work. In spite of what some may call your lax methods, you have done more than your part to try to do what’s right and protect the public.” President O’Day smiled, turning her eyes to Dark Arrow.

“Dark Arrow. I am sure you are wondering the status of the Titans of Authority.”

“Yes ma’am.” Dark Arrow said, politely.





“The Titans of Authority Initiative was set in motion by my predecessor. And with good reason. After the incident in Indiana and heightened metahuman activity, I believe the Titans of Authority Initiative is necessary.”

“Thank you.” Dark Arrow said, cutting his eyes at Starman.

“Tom, I’d like you to continue to be the liaison to the group. You will share IADC intel with your team. We will continue to fund the team as well as a meeting place at the IADC. All the transport tubes will remain in place. I understand a couple of your members wish to not return?” The President asked.

“Yes. I have official resignation letters here from Kid Comet and Buffalo Brave. They have conflicts with the ways both teams operate and wish to separate from any affiliation with either team.” Tom replied.

“Noted. I will let the appropriate people know.” Angel O’Day said. “Gentlemen, thank you for your time….and as for conflict with the two teams. You’ll simply have to agree to disagree. Good day.”

“Madame President, I do have one last question. What of Celsius’s remains. No one has come forward to claim them.” Starman asked. “Not that I want to spring for a funeral or anything, but what if he comes back. I mean, he is an elemental.”

“I understand your concern, Starman.” The President replied. “I have ordered his remains to be studied and properly disposed of. Illumina will oversee the process.”

The three men all shook hands with President O’Day and were escorted to a lobby.

“Looks like everyone came out a winner today.” Tom said.

Starman approached Dark Arrow. “I hope our two teams can be friends at least. Our methods may differ but…..”

“But.” Dark Arrow said, taking a step back. “I know exactly how this will all do down. You all will be too chicken to tackle the big threats and we’ll have to do all the dirty work. I’m still getting over that ceiling crashing down on me and seeing my sister nearly killed. Why don’t we just stay out of each other’s way?” Dark Arrow walked away.

“Sorry about that.” Tom replied. “Good luck with everything.” He shook Starman’s hand and followed Dark Arrow.

Starman stuck his tongue out at Dark Arrow, exited and took to the sky.

***

In the Titans of Authority meeting room, Dark Arrrow and Tom were greeted by Totem, Superboy, Apotheosis, Kitty Kat, Jo Jo Gardner, Hawkgirl, Black Orchid, Illumina, Lilith, and Storm Surge.

“No need to tell us, Tom. Lilith already spoiled your news.” Storm Surge laughed.





Tom looked at Lilith. “Sorry Tom, I couldn’t help myself.” She smiled.





“Well, I for one am glad we’re staying together.” Apotheosis said. “I believe the whole Celsius debacle showed how badly our brand of justice is needed.”





“I agree. My mother is still terrified the Gored Ox is going to come looking for her or hurt me. How he murdered my father has really shaken her up.” Totem said.





“My resolve is greater than ever.” Black Orchid said. “My time in the healing cocoon made me realize just how dangerous the world is now. The threats are so….so global, so devastating.”





“With all this muscle, we’ll mop the floor with anyone who messes with us, right Superboy?” Jo Jo Gardner said, elbowing the teen powerhouse. Superboy ignored the Green Lantern and said, “So Tom, what next?”





Tom Tressor dropped a folder complete with headshots of villains. “Our intel indicates high activity from these people. We take them down fast and hard.”

“I like the way you think, Tom!” Hawkgirl smiled.





“I like everything about you, Tom.” Kitty Kat purred, taking Superboy’s arm. “In fact, I think I like the scenery around here.” Superboy turned and smiled at her.





“Hey, what does no sleeves have that I don’t?” Jo Jo demanded.

“Hmph. Do you really have to ask?” Kitty Kat laughed.

“Kitty Kat, I am pleased to have you join us.” Illumina said. “I know your undercover work will help us track down Punchline and his team.”





“Kitty Kat’s brother Fabri will be joining Illumina’s team at S.T.A.R.” Tom added. “He’s a brilliant engineer and he’ll be helping develop new weapons and other tools to deal with the people we encounter.”

“I have to say that helping Tom and fighting alongside you….changed my perspective on certain things. When I say, I’m happy to be here, I mean it.” Kitty Kat smiled warmly. Things were going well from Kitty Kat's perspective. The two Titans teams had stopped fighting, Knightvision had been resurrected, and her brother Fabri was cleared of all of his previous charges by the IADC due to Kitty Kat's hard work with the Titans of Authority.

Lilith thought to herself, “She’s telling the truth, she’s sincere. I guess a leopard can change her spots.”

“What about Black Adam? Has anyone heard from him?” Apotheosis asked.

“Not a word. It seems he’s disappeared after the Celsius mess.” Storm Surge said.

“If I know Adam and Isis, we probably won’t see either of them for a while. Their marriage is important to them and I bet they’ll focus on that.” Black Orchid said.

***

Miles away, a similar meeting was being held. The Titans of Justice were still using the original Teen Titans headquarters, Titans Lair.

Corporal Marvel stood in front of a large painting on the wall featuring the original Teen Titans East and West teams. He wondered if the Titans of Justice and Titans of Authority would ever get along as well as the two teams pictured in front of him did.





“Thank Hera!” Champion exclaimed at seeing the Titans’ charter.





“So it’s true? We’re back in business?” Flash asked.





“It’s true!” Starman said, explaining that the Titans would soon be in a brand new Hall of Justice.

“Wow, they’re really making things right. I almost wish I would be around to see it.” Supergirl said.





“What?” Power Guy said.





“You guys are pretty stacked right now. I only came on board to help while most of you were away in the Universe of Evil. I’ve gotten behind in my school work and I need to re-enroll for the next semester. It’s been a blast and I wish you all the best.” Supergirl replied, flying away.

“I too, must take my leave. I believe I can better serve by helping someone I have more in common with.” Magno said.





“What do you have in mind?” Sonic Boom asked.





“Francis Kane. Magenta. She and I have similar problems. I….hope to be a companion to her as she tries to adjust to her newfound mental stability. I bid you all farewell but please contact the Justice Society Infinity should you ever need me for an emergency.”

“I believe that’s the most I’ve ever heard him speak.” Green Lantern said, watching Magno depart.





"Starman," began Hawk Warrior, "If you're ok with it, I'd like to be Magno's full-time replacement."





"Ok with it? I'm thrilled!" revealed the cosmic hero. "I thought you'd be heading back to reserve status and to Earth 2 now that the dust has settled. We'd be happy to keep your name on the active roster."

Suddenly the air became warm and fragrant. Isis and Black Adam entered the meeting room.

“I’m pleased to see the two of you together.” Hawk Warrior offered.

“Thank you Hector.” Isis smiled. “I need to tell you all my plans…. in person….”





“Oh no, not another person leaving!” Corporal Marvel said.





“I’m afraid so Corporal.” Isis said walking over to him. “You are doing well, despite the horrors you endured. I am pleased.”

“My wife and I are taking time to work on what’s most important. Our marriage.” Black Adam said, taking Isis’s hand.





“I believe all this discord made us realize how much we mean to each other. We will be around if you need us -“ Isis started.

“I will be around to assist the Titans of Authority if they need me, wife.” Adam said sternly.

“And I will be around to assist the Titans of Justice, husband.” Isis said, narrowing her eyes. “But only if they really need me.” she said relaxing her tone.

Black Adam and Isis said goodbye, clasped hands, and flew away.

“Wow, I’d like to be a fly on the wall at one of their counseling sessions!” Goldbug laughed.





“I’d usually zap you for a comment like that, but I’m so happy you’re recovering I’ll let it pass - THIS TIME,” Black Vulcan smirked.





“So, this is our team. I think it’s a good one.” Power Guy said. “Starman, I still want you to remain team leader.”

“Thanks.” Starman said. “And if there’s anything we can do—“

“I know.” Power Guy said, becoming sad as he thought about Sargona.

“Has anyone heard from Huntress?” Flash asked. “No one’s better at the tactical stuff than her.”

“Well, she did send Red Robin in to help us. Maybe she’s retiring.” Sonic Boom said.

“I’d rather not retire.” Came the Huntress’s voice from the shadows.





Sonic Boom and Power Guy hugged their friend.

“How have you been?” Power Guy asked.

“Ok. I just needed some distance. I…visited a grief counselor. Came to terms with what happened and faced it. I still have some things to sort out, but I feel more like myself.” Huntress said.

“I think that’s great.” Sonic Boom said, taking her hand.

“If there’s a spot left on the team, I’d like to take it.” Huntress said. “If you all will have me. I hope you all understand what I did and why---“

“No need for any explanations.” Starman said, walking over to her. “We should have been better friends to you, realized what you were going through.”

“Thanks Scott.” Huntress replied.

“What about Red Robin? What’s he going to be doing?” Corporal Marvel asked.

“Why don’t I let him explain it himself.” Huntress gestured. Red Robin dropped from the ceiling.

“I’m going to enroll in the Super Friends program. Huntress has been training me, but I want to learn more.” He smiled.





“Awesome!” Corporal Marvel high-fived Red Robin. “Come on, let me give you the scoop on the Super Friends.”

“I do need to tell you all, the Titans of Authority are still in business.” Starman said.

“Oh brother. Here we go.” Huffed Goldbug.

“The President said we should just agree to disagree. I’m sure we’ll cross paths.” Starman replied.

“I will have to say, they did their part in stopping Celsius.” Sonic Boom added.

Quickly changing the subject, Starman displayed the plans for the new Hall of Justice. Titans lair was filled with excitement as the team looked at the plans for their soon to be new home.

***

Later, at the home of Oliver and Dinah Queen…

“Sis, you got a minute.” Robert Queen asked his sister.

“Of course. Are you ok?” Didi asked her brother.

“I am. I just wanted you to know I’m happy that we’ve gotten close again after all that’s happened. I also wanted you to know that I’m staying with the Titans of Authority.”

“No big secret there.” Didi said. “But after all that’s happened, I understand. After talking to Mom and Dad, I realize that if not for your team, they could’ve died that day that Bane reappeared. You too. I still think you all are a bit too aggressive, but I understand. And I’m sorry for my part in hurting our relationship.”

“And I’m sorry for my part.” Robert Queen said, hugging his sister.

“Dinah, get the camera!” Oliver Queen’s voice came. “This is a Kodak moment if I’ve ever seen one!”





As Oliver helped his wife hunt for the camera, Didi said to Robert, “You should really reach out to Dan. I know he misses his best friend.”

“I know. I miss hanging out with him too. Maybe we can all just be Rob, Dan, and Didi and hang out sometime soon.”

***

Washington D.C…

“So, you’ll be working closely with me, Mindy. I hope this won’t become a conflict of interest for you.” Tom Tressor said, giving Mindy a stack of assignments.

“I already told you. Champion doesn’t interfere in Mindy’s business. And I like working with you.” She smiled. “But, would you mind if Champion showed up right now?”

“I’m not sure….” Tom said, puzzled.

Mindy Wonder-spinned into Champion. “Come with me.”

Tom followed Champion outside where the Invisible Jet waited. The duo boarded the plane and took off.

“Where are we going? We have work to do.” Tom protested.

“We do. But everyone certainly has to eat.” The plane landed on Paradise Island. Men close to the Royal Family had been permitted on the hallowed grounds for years by now and Tom was in awe of the island.

“Mindy…are you sure we should be here? Your parents don’t know about us….”

“Don’t worry. This is my private place. I had to come here as a child when Mother, Dad, and Scott would return. I felt they distracted me from my training and studies. No one visits this part of the beach. We’re safe.” She smiled pointing towards a picnic dinner. “And I radioed ahead earlier today I was not to be disturbed. Being a princess has its benefits.”

“You did this…did this for me?” Tom was stunned.

“I did. Come, sit.” She took his hand as they sat on the beach. They enjoyed a delicious meal. After a light dessert, Champion leaned over and kissed Tom. He kissed her back. As the sun descended, Champion whispered, “Tom…I think…I think I’m falling in love with you. I’ve never felt this way before.”

Tom looked her in the eye. “I’ve already fallen in love with you.”

They kissed passionately as the sun set, casting its golden rays across the ocean.

***

Vince Starr’s Apartment, Earth 2…

Vince returned home after the Titans meeting. His home was in disarray as he had been so busy lately. He picked up a stack of mail and started going through it. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a framed photo of himself and Sargona. He tossed the mail across the room and smashed his fist through the coffee table. His head sank and he cried. He flew out the window and summoned his newfound pet, Jake. The two of them flew into space so Power Guy could try to clear his head. Seeing the friendly animal helped calm Power Guy down and forget the huge hole in his heart….for a few moments at least.

***

The home of Scott and Jerrica Trevor…

Jerrica inspected the repair work in the atrium. The construction crew had worked quickly and she was pleased her house was back in order after Circe’s attack. Both her agent, Murray and her sister, Kimber had healed from their injuries, thanks to the Amazons’ Purple Healing Ray. She went to Steven’s nursery and he was sound asleep. She stood watching him for several minutes and adjusted his blanket. She kissed his forehead and smiled. Next she went down the tv room. Her husband was fast asleep, fashion magazines and modeling contracts spread all over the coffee table. She placed a blanket on him and kissed his cheek. She smiled as he dreamed. She then made her way to the kitchen. Connor’s head was on the kitchen table, fast asleep. She noticed next to him a SAT prep book. Jerrica thought of waking him, but he seemed to be resting and in a deep sleep. She kissed his forehead and shut out the light. She felt happy knowing all her “boys” were home safe. She went back to the TV room and relaxed in a recliner, content and warm.





The End!



Here are the new team rosters:


Titans of Justice
Black Vulcan
Champion
Corporal Marvel
Flash V
Gold Bug
Green Lantern
Hawk Warrior
Huntress
Power Guy
Sonic Boom
Starman - Leader



Titans of Authority
Apotheosis
Black Orchid
Dark Arrow - Leader
Green Lantern(Jo Jo Gardner)
Hawkgirl
Illumina
Kitty Kat
Lilith - Psychic Advisor
Nemesis - IADC Liaison
Superboy
Storm Surge
Totem