Infinite Justice: Beyond (Marvel,DC,DBZ X/Over, IC, Open)

[New Rob Halfordia]

Retconned

[Tomia]

Capital Planet of the Kandar Empire
A large fleet of battleships entered the surrounding solar system of the Kandar capital. They had entered through a massive magical portal created in space by the ships themselves, thanks to the cooperation between the mages and scribes of the Yazara. In the message that they had received from the Kandar, they were told what the mission was. They had no interest in protecting any planet outside of this solar system, there was no point in bothering. The ships began to spread out in a defensive position around the solar system. Meanwhile four of the largest ships headed straight toward what they were fairly confident was the capital planet.

The Yazara were rather new to the intergalactic political game, so they would mostly likely not be known by many others, but they had certainly heard of the Kandar. Their society was similar to that of the Yazara, and they had always respected the strength of the Kandar.Thus when they heard the large civilization's desperate plea to help, King Marriac was quick to respond. On the lead ship that was preparing to enter the Capital's atmosphere was the King himself, as well as his chief general, his son Togara, commonly known as the Hammer of Asugar. Togara stood stoically on the command deck as the ship slowly descended into the atmosphere, after declaring themselves and announcing their intentions to the Kandar government. These four ships were the largest and had a large amount of empty space, and this was so that they could take as many survivors onto their ship as possible, including the Empress and her daughter.

Togara was not too fond of this mission. He wished to be out there, fighting this great threat, not saving people who were too weak to defend themselves. However his father was the Dragon King and until Togara ascended to that position himself and became the transcended dragon, he would have to obey. Soon the Capital City of Kandar came into view. Togara studied it intently, knowing it that soon, it would be wiped from existence.

[Tomia]

Grimms
John smiled at Sarah's teasing question. "Well, that was before I met you. I couldn't arrest someone as cute as you." He told her playfully as they got out of bed together. John went to shower, and when he got out, got himself dressed and heard Sarah say that Sam had a tough night. He raised an eyebrow curiously, "How do you know that?" He asked as they went to leave the hotel room to find the others.

Sam had woken by now and got dressed, yawning a bit as she headed toward her room. She was about to open the door with her key when she paused. DeeDee was in there and who knows what she was doing. She then knocked a little hesitantly on the door. "DeeDee? You in there?" Sam called through the door to her teacher.

Roy had woken up as well and as he was getting dressed, he was thinking about the time he and Hannah had spent hanging out the night before. It was a lot of fun, and it felt so nice to be able to make a connection with someone else. It seemed like Hannah really understood him. He wasn't sure what would happen now, but he hoped he'd get to see Hannah again.

Young Bloods
Later that night, the Young Bloods had began their infiltration of Jump Tech Pharmaceuticals' corporate headquarters. Mars had built small devices that gave the user temporary invisibility and had finally unveiled them to the team to use for this mission. Using this device he headed toward the building,s security room, Vera accompanying him for back up. Meanwhile Kiris was providing cover for Nico and Cat as they headed toward their parent's office to search for evidence. Rin was acting as the eyes and ears for the team, well more ears but you know what I mean. She was also working with Xyri who was using her malleable form to search for inconsistencies in the building's infrastructure that might lead them to hide a hidden room or passageway.

[Zarkenis Ultima]

A lonesome figure walked across the Earth with a diligent step, having at last arrived to that planet after a long journey. He had sought to show a certain something to a group of important figures, but as he arrived at the blue marble of the Sol System, he realized that he was far too late. It was, yes, disappointing, but the lad did not let this get to him, for there was another very good reason for his arrival to Earth. The boy softly hummed to himself a song that one could easily identify as appropiate to the season, glittery blue eyes staring straight ahead as he advanced. His white snowy hair was kept safe from the cold wind by a hood belonging to a cloak, but unlike the one he wore regularly, which was pitch black, this one was colored bright red, with puffy white borders around the hood and the sleeves' wrists. As he walked along the riverside, he dragged along a small hand cart that trailed behind him, the rhythmical squeak of the wheels filling the air alongside the occasional howl of the wind. On said cart sat a flowerpot, and on said flowerpot, there was a large, strange daisy with yellow petals. The petals, however, weren't the only difference between this and other flowers of its kind, for this one had a face. It was not a very pleasant face to look at, since it was very angry; this was the angriest daisy in the world, one could say. It had a mouth, but it did not speak, it had long ago tired of speaking and so now it had resigned itself to silence as it trailed behind the hooded boy.

Soon enough, an enormous city came into view on the horizon, and the boy smiled softly to himself. He hurried up in order to reach the city.

The place where the boy had now arrived, as his sole observer would soon learn, was called New Attilan. A prosperous, advanced city that served as the home of the Inhumans, it had suffered a great loss recently, and many had grieved said loss. However, that did not mean that the Inhumans did not attempt to move past their losses and cherish what they still had, after the horrors they had gone through. The city, it seemed, was open to visitors now, after having been isolated from the rest of humanity for a long time. In addition to that, a certain Otis Steredenn had made quite the rapport with humans, and now New Attilan enjoyed a quite healthy influx of tourists from around the world, especially during this season. The boy could only imagine that the humans present were out to get exotic objects for their friends and families, but, whatever they were doing, their presence made his self-imposed task a lot simpler. Ordinarily, he was certain that many might have asked what a child was doing out in the streets by himself, but now, thanks to the abundance of humans, not many seemed to stop to look at him, much less approach him. The daisy's angry stare seemed to help quite a bit as well. Still dragging the daisy along in his handcart, the white-haired boy continued moving. Though there were many things one could do in New Attilan, he had a very clear idea of where he was going.

Of course, even with that added advantage, he still knew it wasn't going to be simple to get where he needed to be, not at all. As he arrived at the Inhuman Royal Palace, he saw a mass of human tourists taking pictures of the enormous, lavish structure, many of them also taking selfies of themselves with the palace as the background, prompting the boy to shake his head with amusement. However, the fact was that all of these humans were behind a nonexistent cordon which was maintained by a group of guards stationed around the palace, and when, with some effort, the boy managed to push through the crowd to the front, always keeping his little handcart close to him, he was met with his first, and likely only, obstacle: the Inhuman Royal Guard. As he approached the gates of the palace, one of the guards stepped up to him and held up a hand, signalling for him to stop, which he did, looking up at the rather imposing Inhuman curiously, with eyes that held an innocence only the most keen would be able to identify as feigned and false.

"Are you lost, boy?" The guard asked, his voice stern, though he obviously had some concern for the kid. He was not a heartless monster, after all, so it was only natural, and, on a more utilitarian level, he was well aware that if news that a lost child had been harmed in New Attilan got out, it would be bad for PR. Thus, he was perfectly willing to help out the kid, but, much to the guard's surprise, he shook his head.

"No, I'm not. I have to see Queen Medusa." The boy said quite clearly. The guard stood in shock for a moment, but then replied.

"That's a new one, but I'm afraid I can't let anyone go past this point." The Inhuman stated.

"But I bring gifts." The boy argued. The guard shook his head, and the boy pouted. "Pretty please?" He asked as a last resort.

"I'm sorry kid, no exceptions." The guard said, and made it clear that he would not be accepting any more objections. The boy sighed.

"Well, I had hoped it wouldn't come to this." He said as he awkwardly scratched the back of his neck, before looking up at the guard and his closest partner. "Say, have either of you gentlemen ever met Lincoln?" He asked casually, much to the surprise of both guards, who looked at each other with a raised eyebrow, puzzled and weirded out by the question. The boy gave a scary grin, and his eye was suddenly alight with azure fire.

Moments later, the doors to the throne room were thrown open, and in stepped the child, dragging along his handcart as always. Behind him, one could easily see a trail of members of the Inhuman Royal Guard, all of them incapacitated and lying on the ground, more often than not in some very uncomfortable position. The idea that a mere child alone could do this was laughable, but none of that was in Medusalith Amequelia's mind as she jumped out of her throne in alarm. "What is the meaning of this?!" The Queen of the Inhumans demanded, her hair morphing into a weapon in order to attack whatever intruder had broken into the palace, though the realization that she would be attacking a little boy seemed to make her hesitate for a moment, her hair never truly attacking him. This brief distraction was more than enough for the boy to finally enact his plan.

"Merry Christmas, Queen Medusa."

The boy was pretty certain that Medusa was about to say "What?", but he gave her no time for that. His right eye was still glowing brightly with the light of azure flames, and suddenly, another figure stepped through the open doors, this one much taller and more imposing than the white-haired child. It was not Abraham Lincoln either, it was a completely different person, and as Medusa looked at him, she went through a torrent of emotions that were all visible on her face. She went from crippling shock to utter disbelief, and then, finally, moments later, joy. "Darling?" She asked softly, and the soul of Black Bolt made a gesture in the sign language that the two had learned to communicate with.

After the tender reunion of the rulers of New Attilan, Queen Medusa had attempted to find the strange boy to thank him, but it had been to no avail. He had vanished without a trace after leading Black Bolt to her, and the guards of the Royal Palace were not very keen on capturing him anymore, as many of them had also been granted the chance to reunite with some of their deceased friends and relatives for just one day.

Some distance away from there, on one of New Attilan's many streets, Necromancer sat on the sidewalk, smiling to himself as he did some people-watching, happy about what he had done. By his side, the handcart was at rest, and the bizarre daisy decided to speak at last.

"You disappoint me, boy. I had believed for a moment that you had planned to kill her." The flower said with disdain.

"But that would've been horrible, and also unnecessary. She will end up being my friend one day. Everyone does." Necromancer stated.

"Bah, you understand nothing." The daisy replied. "And why do you have to insist on mimicking the behavior of that old fool?! He is an insult to me! One day, I will take all that coal and watch him choke on it!" The plant fumed, before the boy sighed and lightly smacked it.

"Shut up already, Darksey. Do you want me to turn you into a cockroach instead?" He asked. The flower fell silent.

"So, what is the next step, my child?" Asked a woman who sat on the other side of Necromancer. Though she was only a soul, the disembodied spirit of what she had once been, there was still an immense power radiating from her, indicating that she had been very powerful in life, very wise, very ancient. Necromancer turned to look at her, smiling as he heard her voice.

"Oh, hello Mirikkalis." He greeted the spirit of the World-Dragon, before looking ahead once again. "I don't know. I have quite a few more visits that I want to make, more souls that are asking me for a chance, but there is no hurry. I have more than enough time to do all of that. I have awaited Death for millenia, you know? I am nothing if not patient." The boy spoke. Suddenly, a girl who looked about his age, with jet black hair tied into a pair of pigtails, approached the strange trio and held out her hand, which had a few small chocolates on it, all while smiling at the three.

"Merry Christmas!" The girl said. Necromancer smiled and took a chocolate from her.

"Merry Christmas."

[Mavorpen]

snip

Jamal instinctively wrapped his arm around Seriskira when she started laughing out of worry that he'd be dropped. Thankfully her laughter subsided quickly, and he let go of her immediately. They reached the capital city rapidly, to Jamal's relief, and landed in the town square. He looked around and watched the natives gathered around the area collectively stare at him and Cypher but then suddenly avert their gaze. When Seriskira mentioned being the champion of the planet, he wasn't particularly surprised. He couldn't explain it, but somehow, she gave off the aura of someone who fulfilled a role of at least that much.


Jamal watched Seriskira throw Cypher's body into the air and Jamal caught it. He began following her, his stomach once again growling at the mention of food. "Well, I can be pretty persuasive, if I do say so myself. Also, if I'm going to be honest, I was very much serious with what I said. When I lost control of my breathing, they helped me focus. Ah well, it's your choice whether you believe me or not." He shrugged.

Three Days Later...

<Jamal, we have finished constructing the device!> A Hadrian scientist ran up to Jamal--who was sitting on the ground in the middle of the room--holding a metallic spherical object in his claws. He was accompanied by several other scientists as well, and they looked at a quarter of a ship as well as the parts that would be used to finish constructing the rest of the ship littered around the room. Jamal had essentially commandeered the large laboratory as his own personal workspace where he was supposed to record himself constructing the ship. Initially, the scientists had insisted on assisting him build the ship, but he told them that he wold work better alone. And yet, the ship had been virtually untouched. The Hadrian scientist frowned. <Jamal, were you not supposed to-->

Jamal held up a finger at the scientist and shushed him. <Be quiet for a minute, Marakthal.> Jamal said, speaking in the native Hadrian tongue. He'd learned it in pretty much an hour. When they asked him how he had managed to accomplish such a thing, he simply told them that he already had the basic components of the language stored in his mind and just filled in the gaps from there. In Jamal's right hand, was his cell phone, though clearly modified. He pressed the screen and then music began playing. <Oh, thank goodness.> Jamal said with a sigh of relief. He turned the music off and then looked up at the scientist. <Ah, you finished it.> He said, standing up and taking the metallic sphere out of Marakthal's claws. <So, what were you saying?> He asked, looking the sphere over.

<Jamal, you were supposed to be building the ship, and instead you are sitting here playing on your 'mobile phone'! We were patient with you and followed your instructions to construct that...thing...> One of the other scientists spoke up, gesturing at the sphere in Jamal's hands. <The elders will not be happy to learn that you have not kept up your end of the deal.>

<Calm down, Nerengalot.> Jamal said, walking over to the quarter built ship with the parts littered around it. <You're right, I haven't kept my part of the deal, but that's because you guys worked so slow. I told you guys from day one that this is a really simple ship. It's pretty standard for people who are up to illegal activities throughout the universe to use commonplace ships. After all, they're going to be abandoning them frequently, so they need to be cheap, with the exception of when they go on expeditions that require some high quality ships. I told you guys that I would show you how to build the ship. I decided to give you guys something even better.> Jamal pressed a button on the sphere and it began glowing blue and floated up into the air. The sphere released waves of red light and began flying around the room and scanning it. Once it finished, the red light disappeared and it returned to Jamal's right hand. Then, it projected a holographic screen above it. With his left hand, Jamal swiped across the projection to the left. He scrolled through numerous ships until he stopped at one and pressed on it. Suddenly, the parts scattered around the room began moving. They quickly flew at the partially built ship, organizing themselves into their proper places. Within 30 seconds, the completed ship stood before them. <There. Happy?> Jamal asked, as he chucked the sphere to Marakthal, who caught it in his claws, and stood utterly speechless.

<Erm, I believe that I speak for Marakthal when I say: good job. I am sure that the elders will be pleased.> Another scientist named Kirenzel spoke up.

<Good. Now, does anyone know where Seriskira is? I could go for some tea right now.> Jamal said. The scientists collectively shook their heads. <That was a rhetorical question, guys.> Jamal walked out of the room and then exited the building, heading one of the meat shops on the outskirts of the town square. From the moment he exited the laboratory building to the moment he walked into the meat shop and up to the counter, he attracted the stares of everyone who noticed him.

<Welcome, Jamal. Would you like the usual?> The Hadrian behind the counter asked.

<Sure.> Jamal said. Under normal circumstances, it would have been odd for him to ask Jamal this question, having only served him twice before. However, Jamal had become the talk of the town by simple virtue of being a human and being acquainted with Seriskira. The Hadrian walked away and returned three minutes later with a plate containing five kebabs--each having a various assortment of different meats. Jamal wasn't sure what the meats were from, and frankly, he didn't see fit to ask. All he knew was that he really enjoyed their taste. Jamal took the plate and then raised an eyebrow. <Are you sure you don't want me to pay?>

<Oh, no. I could never do such a thing to a guest and friend of our Champion.> He replied.

<Alright then.> Jamal said. <Say, speaking of Seriskira, do you know where she might be?>

<She is most likely meditating in a plateau near the town.>

<Alright. Thanks for the food and information.> Jamal said, turning around and leaving the shop. The next second, Jamal appeared in front of Seriskira out of thin air. "Huh, glad to see the teleporter's working well." He muttered to himself before addressing Seriskira herself. "Hey. Have any tea you can spare?"

[Charmera]

Grimms
John smiled at Sarah's teasing question. "Well, that was before I met you. I couldn't arrest someone as cute as you." He told her playfully as they got out of bed together. John went to shower, and when he got out, got himself dressed and heard Sarah say that Sam had a tough night. He raised an eyebrow curiously, "How do you know that?" He asked as they went to leave the hotel room to find the others.

Sam had woken by now and got dressed, yawning a bit as she headed toward her room. She was about to open the door with her key when she paused. DeeDee was in there and who knows what she was doing. She then knocked a little hesitantly on the door. "DeeDee? You in there?" Sam called through the door to her teacher.

Roy had woken up as well and as he was getting dressed, he was thinking about the time he and Hannah had spent hanging out the night before. It was a lot of fun, and it felt so nice to be able to make a connection with someone else. It seemed like Hannah really understood him. He wasn't sure what would happen now, but he hoped he'd get to see Hannah again.

Young Bloods
Later that night, the Young Bloods had began their infiltration of Jump Tech Pharmaceuticals' corporate headquarters. Mars had built small devices that gave the user temporary invisibility and had finally unveiled them to the team to use for this mission. Using this device he headed toward the building,s security room, Vera accompanying him for back up. Meanwhile Kiris was providing cover for Nico and Cat as they headed toward their parent's office to search for evidence. Rin was acting as the eyes and ears for the team, well more ears but you know what I mean. She was also working with Xyri who was using her malleable form to search for inconsistencies in the building's infrastructure that might lead them to hide a hidden room or passageway.

Hannah was still asleep, and likely wouldn't wake for anything less than being tossed out of bed, though she likely wouldn't be too happy at being so tossed out of a bed. Or food. She'd wake up for food, which would be slightly less hazardous than tossing a teenager at peak human ability with claws and teeth out of a bed.

Xyri
Xyri had no idea what she was looking for beyond just wierd things with the building, but she supposed she'd know when she found it. She slid through slimely, looking through the various parts of the building one floor at a time. She didn't feel cramped or clusterphobic as others might, since it would be literrally impossible for her to be crushed by any means. It would be akin to trying to crush a liquid.

Cat
Cat looked through a file cabinet, and then suddenly she noticed not only some fake backs to several of them, but also keyholes for them. She frowned as she tripped all the files out as quietly as she could. Then tore out the parts she needed and atempted to open them, but surprisingly to no avial. "Huh. These things are strong... or maybe I'm running out of Juice." She remarked. Then passed one of the file cabinet drawers to Nico.

[Charmera]

Christmas Shopping 2
Xyri sighed as she walked around jump city. It had been a day since she went out shopping, and she had still felt that oddly empty feeling in the depth of her. She wasn't sure how to describe it. Mere sadness was far too kind a word for this sort of dispair. If she had to guess with her limited vocabulary, she would say disapointment was good enough. She had felt it very rarely, seeing as she had few experiences to compare anything to. Nothing could be worse that nothing after all.

She wanted this to be magical. She wanted this holiday to be as wonderful as she had heard. As she had witness. A holiday where giving was the norm, where everyone has a smile on their face. A holiday where the shining light of altruism prevails. She didn't even know what Altruism was, but it sounded great. Like a hug. Xyri liked hugs like she liked gifts. Gifts were like a hug someone else could keep, and every time they saw it they could be reminded of how much that person cares about you. The idea of someone who gives hugs to the whole world was something quite primal, quite familiar to Xyri. She didn't know where this came from, but the idea that this hug didn't exist was horrible. To make this worse, it seemed to be replaced with a fist. Xyri understood the need to punch a baddie, but she'd much rather give a hug that punch someone with her superpowers.

Suddenly she noticed several kids playing around in a playground. Suddenly her eyes widened as she noticed the kid which had pulled off Santas beard. Xyri's hands turned into fists as she marched towards the boy. His friends were all watching him using his phone to take a picture of himself. He didn't seem to notice them turn away and run.

"Hey where are you-" Suddenly he noticed the Slime being behind him. He turned around, his eyes wide, then he put on a cocky smile.

"Well if it isn't the big wimp who went to sit on Santa's lap." He taunted. Before he found himself hoisted up by a large slimey arm. His eyes widened as his legs wiggled. "Wait! I was kidding! Don't hurt me!"

"I'm not going to hurt you." Spoke the slime woman. She plopped him on top of the climbing wall. He gulped as she folded her arms, but then folded his and looked away. "What's your name?"

"Sam." He grumbled, looking down and wondering if he should just drop off.

"Why did you do that to the poor man Sam!? He was just trying to make people smile." Asked Xyri.

"What, Ol' Joe?" He smiled. "It was a joke, come on!"

Xyri's frown only deepened. "It didn't seem that funny."

The kid sighed. "Fine." He spoke. "I hate Christmas. All this stupid false cheer and silly songs and "You'll get presents if your good."" He muttered. "I've not gotten any gifts... I never get any gifts." He said bitterly. "Momma say's we're too poor to get gifts. While all the rich kids at my school get Laptops and stuff."

Xyri paused. Then frowned. "Well that's not right." She spoke. "You should have christmas too. Everyone should! That's the whole point. Santa gets presents for all the little boys and girls." She had done some research.

"Santa doesn't exist you dumbass."

"Don't use that sort of language young man!" Spoke Xyri sharply and suddenly. It caught Sam off guard.

"Yes miss..."

Xyri frowned and then shook her head. "No. This is not going to do at all." She spoke. "I'm a superhero. Which means I need to do something about people in trouble." She decided.

Sam paused. "But... What can you do?"

Xyri's frown deepened for a moment. And then suddely turned into a smile. "We're going to be Santa Claus!"

"Come again?"

"We're going to be Santa Claus!" She said once more.

There was a pause.

"I still don't get it. What are we going to do exactly?"

Xyri paused. "Oh yeah. I wan't exactly clear." She spoke. "We're going to get presents for every single person on earth."

Sam would have laughed, but something about the conviction in Xyri's voice stopped him. It was... so heartwarming. He couldn't help but be awed by the fact she meant that. But still, it couldn't be done.

"Okay... why am I helping?"

"Because otherwise I'm going to tell your mommy you said a bad word."

"Fair point. How are we going to get the presents?"

"I think I can help with that." Spoke another voice. One belonging to a Rainbow colored slime with a magical smile.

[Charmera]

Capital Planet of the Kandar Empire
A large fleet of battleships entered the surrounding solar system of the Kandar capital. They had entered through a massive magical portal created in space by the ships themselves, thanks to the cooperation between the mages and scribes of the Yazara. In the message that they had received from the Kandar, they were told what the mission was. They had no interest in protecting any planet outside of this solar system, there was no point in bothering. The ships began to spread out in a defensive position around the solar system. Meanwhile four of the largest ships headed straight toward what they were fairly confident was the capital planet.

The Yazara were rather new to the intergalactic political game, so they would mostly likely not be known by many others, but they had certainly heard of the Kandar. Their society was similar to that of the Yazara, and they had always respected the strength of the Kandar.Thus when they heard the large civilization's desperate plea to help, King Marriac was quick to respond. On the lead ship that was preparing to enter the Capital's atmosphere was the King himself, as well as his chief general, his son Togara, commonly known as the Hammer of Asugar. Togara stood stoically on the command deck as the ship slowly descended into the atmosphere, after declaring themselves and announcing their intentions to the Kandar government. These four ships were the largest and had a large amount of empty space, and this was so that they could take as many survivors onto their ship as possible, including the Empress and her daughter.

Togara was not too fond of this mission. He wished to be out there, fighting this great threat, not saving people who were too weak to defend themselves. However his father was the Dragon King and until Togara ascended to that position himself and became the transcended dragon, he would have to obey. Soon the Capital City of Kandar came into view. Togara studied it intently, knowing it that soon, it would be wiped from existence.

The Siege had not yet begun, so the flotilla managed to get to Kandar Prime. The Kandarians did not meet the ship on the planet bellow however, but instead allowed it to park in the star station that Kandar Prime’s moon had been transformed into. Kandar Prime’s moon, Ular, was where they were met with the Kandar emissaries.

“Greetings Allies.” Spoke Soran, the voice of the Empress. “Thank you for coming. We need you to take our Princess off world and evacuate as many Kandarians as possible. Our own fleets have been meticulously destroyed, so we need your help.”

“The princess is waiting for you. She would very much like to meet you.”

[Tomia]

Yazara
The Yazara delegation exited their main ship once they had landed on Kandar Prime's moon. King Marriac and Togara led the small group, with two men standing on either side of them, holding poles bearing the flag of Yazara, a large red dragon breathing fire. Marriac was a massive man, at least two feet taller than most tall humans. He wore heavy armor and bowed his head when they reached Soran who was representing the Empress. "We are glad to be able to help in your time of need. However, where is the Empress? Will she not be coming with us?" The king inquired, before ordering Toraga to go and greet the princess while he and Soran spoke. Togara sighed but obeyed his father's command, splitting from the delegation and heading toward the princess' location.

[Charmera]

Yazara
The Yazara delegation exited their main ship once they had landed on Kandar Prime's moon. King Marriac and Togara led the small group, with two men standing on either side of them, holding poles bearing the flag of Yazara, a large red dragon breathing fire. Marriac was a massive man, at least two feet taller than most tall humans. He wore heavy armor and bowed his head when they reached Soran who was representing the Empress. "We are glad to be able to help in your time of need. However, where is the Empress? Will she not be coming with us?" The king inquired, before ordering Toraga to go and greet the princess while he and Soran spoke. Togara sighed but obeyed his father's command, splitting from the delegation and heading toward the princess' location.

"The emperess is attempting to buy us time. She's commanding troops on the surface. They are weathering the first wave, though they are merely testing our defenses. Make no mistake, this is a final stand for many of us. Though I will try to see if she's aviable to talk or assist you. She very much would like to meet you" Soran remarked. "There are two other things that need to be done as well, if you do not mind of course." He spoke. "One, there is a weapon deep within this planet we believe the slimes may want. And two, we believe they may be summoning their... God. Stopping them may be in your interests as well in that case."

The princess looked up at Togara. She got up, nodding slightly. She was tall, about seven feet tall. The empress was even taller it was said, about the same height as the king. The Princess bowed. "It is an honour to meet you." She spoke with a soft and nervous voice. She was trained, but not tested in combat.

[Siliarba]

DeeDee

When I heard someone knocking on the door, Sam to be specific. I left my trance and put on my clothing. Well, considering I was in my demon form it was a lot less putting on my clothes and rather growing thick leathery skin or a bony exoskeleton at places that warrant covering. It would either resemble clothing or it would look like natural covering, either way this should be acceptable. I considered for a moment to go back to my human form, but honestly what's the point, I'm weaker in it, more vulnerable, slower, even my intelligence in human is lower than in demon form. I might as well just stop using it and just stay a demon forever. Food for thought, now Sam is the priority. "I'm here Sam, good to see you found your way back, I'm impressed, slightly, barely, well I think what I'm feeling is being impressed, not sure I ever felt it before. Regardless good to see I didn't need to pick you up."

"By the way when you found your way back here, did you follow your instincts and take a peak at me or did your embarrassment prevent you? I do hope it's the first, but I'm expecting the second considering how embarrassed you tend to get."

[Tomia]

"The emperess is attempting to buy us time. She's commanding troops on the surface. They are weathering the first wave, though they are merely testing our defenses. Make no mistake, this is a final stand for many of us. Though I will try to see if she's aviable to talk or assist you. She very much would like to meet you" Soran remarked. "There are two other things that need to be done as well, if you do not mind of course." He spoke. "One, there is a weapon deep within this planet we believe the slimes may want. And two, we believe they may be summoning their... God. Stopping them may be in your interests as well in that case."

The princess looked up at Togara. She got up, nodding slightly. She was tall, about seven feet tall. The empress was even taller it was said, about the same height as the king. The Princess bowed. "It is an honour to meet you." She spoke with a soft and nervous voice. She was trained, but not tested in combat.

Marriac looked at Soran curiously, "Summoning their god? What exactly do you mean by that? Regardless, we will help you in the fight against these slim creatures. If you wish, I can send troops after this weapon of yours, and then the rest of my forces shall join your fight against these creatures to stop them from summoning their so called god." Marriac told him. "And do not bother the Empress if she is in battle, I was just merely wondering if she would be escaping with us. It would be a shame for her to be lost as well."

Meanwhile, Togora watched as the princess stood to greet him. She was quite beautiful, and around his height. He bowed his head slightly in respect. "My name is Togara your highness, son of King Marriac of the Yazara. We're here to protect you and take you away from the approaching invaders." He told her simply, and probably a little more calmly than was usual for this kind of situation. Togara had very little fear in death, and saw battle as just a part of life.

[The Republic of Atria]

"Aw. Oh well. I understand. You got responsibilities." He conceded. "It was nice to have you here though! And-" He actually thought about what Hadri just told him. Advice about women? It didn't take much for him to put 2 and 2 together after she left. Once he did, he felt his face heat up. Hadri pretty much implied that he had a crush on Julie. Did he put off that he did? He definitely liked her, there was no doubt that at the very least, she was a great friend. He was lost in his train of thought and when Julie actually came back out of the restroom, her voice caused him to jump. "Julie! You scared me." He stammered a bit trying to maintain his composure. "Yeah... Hadri said she just remembered that she had some stuff to do. So I guess it's just us for the time being... So... You wanna just keep watching or..." Already what Hadri said had went in one ear and out the other. This was the stuff that he was supposed to be worrying about. Suddenly fighting Yuga Khan all by himself didn't see that difficult.

Xander and Naja

"Your home is a star?" Naja asked. "Big one too."

"Yes. Many species lack the technology to exist on a blue star. It also provides protection from The Devourer. As far as we know he only consumes planets. Not stars. So we are safe from him." The woman explained. "Oh! I almost forgot. My name is Navara. This is Valan. In a moment you will be transported by the Old Ones for your evaluation."

"Wait. What do I need-" It was too late for him to ask any question. There was a flash of light and he was gone. Naja was slightly bothered by how sudden it was. "-To... Say..." Xander trailed off as he said three large amorphous blobs of what appeared to be some form of quantum energy that he couldn't quite break down in his mind. "Umm... Hello? I guess I'm here now." He said really unsure what to say. A few seconds later, the blobs took shape and form. Humanoid, but completely featureless. "I suppose you did this so that I feel slightly more comfortable with this whole thing?" He asked with just a hint of sarcasm. "No offense intended, but I'm still adjusting to this entire thing. I just met my parents who I didn't even know existed before a few hours ago. Do your worst." He said trying to remain in control of the situation by sounding commanding and crossing his arms. If only to reassure himself that he wasn't completely terrified of the three incomprehensible beings standing in front of him.

"You misunderstand. Yes. You were, how you would say where you were raised, a social experiment. You were also a fruitful one as well. You did everything in your power to ensure the survival of that planet. You even brought the other species around you under your protection. We are surprised at your progress and how well you adapted to your surroundings." The one on the right said.

"Agreed." The center one spoke. "For a spark, you exceeded all expectations. And for an infant, you certainly are among the most powerful of our kind. Barring us of course."

"We would like to welcome you and your lover to our home. We apologize for not waiting until you were of a proper age, but we believed it better for you to be surrounded by the species you were sent to emulate and elevate. The experiment is over. We have seen all that we require. We thank you for your participation."

"Wasn't like I had a choice in the matter..." He muttered. "But. I'm glad I could help."

[Illica Falki]

Young Bloods
Later that night, the Young Bloods had began their infiltration of Jump Tech Pharmaceuticals' corporate headquarters. Mars had built small devices that gave the user temporary invisibility and had finally unveiled them to the team to use for this mission. Using this device he headed toward the building,s security room, Vera accompanying him for back up. Meanwhile Kiris was providing cover for Nico and Cat as they headed toward their parent's office to search for evidence. Rin was acting as the eyes and ears for the team, well more ears but you know what I mean. She was also working with Xyri who was using her malleable form to search for inconsistencies in the building's infrastructure that might lead them to hide a hidden room or passageway.

Vera had used that device right up until she had the chance to, after indicating what she was doing to mars, climb into the ceiling, making sure to replace the tile she moved to remove the evidence she was there. The invisibility device was only temporary, so she wanted to save as much power as possible, besides, she could do a surprising amount in the space she was in. She followed along the general route Mars laid out while they were planning, Occasionally taking time to follow the odd camera wire and point out it's position to her teammates. If required, she was also able to create a small, but natural distraction by fiddling with certain wires on the lights, causing them to flicker and possibly drag peoples attention to some probably faulty lighting. she made sure climb along the top of that space, and not trust the tiles themselves, given how easy it was to climb into the ceiling space in the first place.

[Confederation of imperial states]

Gotham City

The Knight's VTOL Flew towards Gotham City, finally reaching it's destination, The Knight linked up with The Knight computer. The Knight set The VTOL into hover just above a Gotham rooftop, climbing out he walked towards the edge of the building. The Knight knelt down, using his enhanced vision to zoom inon the street, "Gotham Police Department are attempting to keep Order, Harvey Bullock is at the center of Grand Avenue with Sergant Cash". [Usually they'd be more friendly to the Batfamily, you're unknown to them, shall we proceed?]. The Knight stood up on the edge of the building, "Let's go introduce outselves". The Knight stepped off of the edge of the building, as he began to fall The Knight opened his cape, lightly falling down at the ground level of the Alley way. The Knight stepped out, looking around he began to walk towards the center of Grand Avenue, the streets were empty with the emergancy cerfew in place, The Knight shot his grappel pulling him ont a high point of one of the streetside buildboards for a better vantage point.

The Knight spotted Cash and Bullock, The Knight glided down and landed silently behind them, "Gentlemen, I'm here to help". Cash turned around while harvey nearly jumped out of his own body, "Jesus you gotta stop this bat- wait, who are you?" Harvey asked The Knight. Cash squinted, "wait, I remember that Symbol, You're That Knight guy". Harvey raised an Eyebrow, "Knight?". Cash shook his head, "watch the damn news sometime harv' this guy fought off 5 of the world's deadliest assassins". Harvey gave a suprised face, "well then, glad you're here". "The Bat Family sent out a wide range signal for assistance", Cash scratched the back of his head, "Yeah, we saw a few of their people get caught in the gas, then batman showed up and hauled them off, I'd guess they'd need back up. Well seeing as you're staying, there's probably something we can have you do to help the GCP-".

Cash was Interrupted when his radio on his waist sparked up, a female officer shouting, ["10 - 1 We need back up, We've got a hostage situation at the Marriott Gotham Theater, Pengiun and his thugs have broken in"]. Cash radioed in, "roger that we'll have backup on route", Looking up Cash commented, "It's probably best you head there Kni- Wait where'd he go?". Cash said looking around. Harvey shook his head, "I Dunno, disheartening is like some sort of Bat-itis nowadays".

---

Marriott Theater, Gotham

The Knight landed on a Rooftop overlooking the Marriott, Penguin's Goons had blocked the door with the police forming a small Car blockade outside of the door. The Knight grappled over to the Marriott's rooftop, unseen as he crouched down as he saw 2 of penguin's men. The Knight shot a tranquilizer dart, knocking out the farther thug, as the closer one turned around, The Knight pulled him over by shooting his grapple at his chest. The Knight knocked the thug off his footing by hitting him horizontally, The knight brought his hands together and slammed them on the Thug's chest, knocking him down and knocking him out. The Knight quickly hurried over to an air vent, prying it off with his hands and placing it to the side, the Knight slowly slid down the air, hitting the bottom as it changed horizontally. The Knight quietly and lightly moved through the airvent, until he stopped at one exit grate upon hearing Penguin's cockney accent.

"Alrite Lads, We gotta get that Safe open before The Bat gets here", The Penguin said, standing on a milk crate while his men stood around him, "and I promise we'll be richer that Bruce Wayne by the end of this!". Penguin's men cheered, The Knight took this advantage, dropping down onto cobblepot's box knocking him off, The Knight peered down at penguin, "I'm shutting this down cobblepot', Penguin looked up confused, "wait, you're not the Bat, who are you?". "I'm The Knight, and You're a short man who's about to have half his ribs broken". penguin cackled as he held his hand up, then Penguin's men charged at The Knight. The Knight threw down a flash bang, catching penguin's men off guard, The Knight took advantage tripping a thud and smashing his head into the ground.

The Knight then grabbed two of them by their throats, and tossed them back into an empty china case, which fell on top of them knocking them out cold. The Knight began to fight against the large amount of penguin's thugs, as Penguin attempted to run out of the room VIA a side exit, the door slammed open, and none other that Nightwing himself jumped out pinning cobblepot on his back. "Miss me Penguin?", "*coff* screw you boy wonder!". Nightwing punched Cobblepot straight in the jaw knocking him out cold, Nightwing looked up to see The Knight standing over a large ground of unconscious penguin goons. Nighwing whistled, "gotta admit, I'm impressed". The Knight walked forward, stopping 3 feet from Nightwing.

"the Bat Family sent out their Distress Signal",
"and you answered?",
"I said I'd come if you need my help",
"well, in that case, We better regroup with Bats and decide on how to approach the fallout from last night".
The Knight nodded, he then received a Commslink from his father.

["Marcus, I've rerouted the VTOL to be stationed discretely and secretly in a Cryotech storage house, not far from where you're at", ["Much Ablidged, I'll contact you later with a report on the Chicago crime War"].

Back in The Knight's Domain

Thomas ended the call, he coughed violently into his handkerchief, Thomas looked at it to see he'd been coughing up Blood. Thomas shook his head,
"Later might not be enough time boy..."

[The Starlight]

-snip-

The Valkyrie watched him closely, but did not attack. This Construct 654EM, Xylan seemed rather like a machine, but with free will and intelligence. She endured his gaze, understanding he was simply curious, and noticed his eyes flitting to her spear. He held himself like a warrior, and so, she would treat him as a fellow comrade.

"Very well. My name is Helga, and I am a Valkyrie, here upon the realm and planet of Asgard. The Valkyrior are a group of female warriors, serving as the sword of Asgard and the shield of our queen. That is, Valka Silverhand, whom we call the All-Mother, wielding the Valkaforce in one hand and the mighty spear Gungnir in the other. In this section of the universe, there are Ten Realms, and Asgard either lords over them, is allied with them, fights with them, or protects them. Asgard has stood for thousands of years, and while it has been destroyed many times by our many foes, we have always rebuilt, and maintained our vigilance. I know not of a mightier race of warriors than we." she declared proudly, but with a tone of fact in her belief.

"Now, shall I take you to the All-Mother? She shall be undoubtedly curious of whom you are, and from whence you came." Helga said, gesturing to the palace gates.

-snip-

"I do not have the gift of foresight, so nay, I did not see the attack on thy galaxy occur. And neither does my sight extend into thy galaxy, so this is one of the first times I have heard of it. And yet, I also was told that you slew the man ultimately responsible. I am Midgard's protector, but I am not its judge, nor am I responsible for the attack. But attempting to reason with you is like attempting to calm a Bilgesnipe that is preparing to charge at you. So what do you do to the Bilgesnipe? You slay it." she said.

"Rather impressive, I will admit," Valka said as Alastir charged. "But not fast enough," she said, her finger moving and placing a shield before her to block Alastir's charge like rocks against an onrushing ship. "Fire? That is my domain," she said, holding out a hand, "though, thy corrupted fire is not," she said, dissipating the flames momentarily before they rose again. Her eyes glowed gold, and continued to, as she batted away his mental probe, responding with an attack of her own upon his mental walls, having gained some psionic ability, though not as great as Hadrimmelis' , from the Vokornians.

"You have an army? And so do I," Valka said, 10,000 Asgardians appearing in a rainbow light to battle Alastir's Demon Army, and at their head was Thor, Mjolnir, as always, crackling, yearning for battle. And while they were less in number, they were Asgardians, and they were mighty.

And then Oathbringer flew to Valka's hand, Gungnir held in her left hand, the All-Mother leaping towards Alastir and slashing with her sword, twice, as she thrusted forth with Gungnir.

[Tomia]

Cora's First Christmas
Cora sat on her(well her and Katie's bed as she folded her clothes to put them into her new draw. She was moving her stuff into Katie's room that day. Since they decided they wanted to start sharing a room and Cora didn't have nearly as much stuff as Katie, it only made sense that she would be the one to move. As anxious and excited she was about, there was something else on her mind as well, Christmas.

Cora was vaguely familiar with the holiday and had already been exposed to the decorations and the music, however... it just wasn't clicking. She didn't understand the holiday, or what it had to do with a baby being born thousands of years ago. Still Cora knew how excited Katie was about their first Christmas together so she had tried to do some research and figure out what was so important about this holiday, but nothing was clicking. She could always fake her enthusiasm, but that felt dishonest and she didn't want to lie to Katie, Sighing the cyborg went on with her task, wondering why this thing called Christmas was so difficult to understand.

[The Silhouette of Adventure]

"GCPD, put your hands in the air!" Boxer called out, busting down the door into one of the Joker gang's hideouts. After their boss got arrested, the rest of the gang was floundering. This was the perfect opportunity to take them in. There was only four goons in this one, and around twenty SWAT members with Boxer. Naturally, the goons surrendered immediately.

"Read them their damn rights, and make sure the Clown hasn't left us any nasty surprises." He sighed. "Dammit. Where the Hell did they get those bombs?" He leaned against the wall.

"I think I can help with that." The Batman walked out of the shadows. "Henry Boxer, GCPD. I've heard good things." The Bat extended his hand.

Boxer blinked for a moment before shaking the vigilante's hand. "It's an honour, Batman. You say you've got intel on the Joker bombs?"

"The parts are military grade, and weren't bought locally. The pieces I scavenged were Latverian made." Batman scowled.

"Latverian?" Boxer's eyes opened wide. "As in, Dr. Doom Latveria? Shit."

Batman nodded solemnly. "There's something more to this, and I intend to find out what. Gordon has a file waiting for you at the station. Your men are skilled. With Red Robin as your agent, can you track down where Joker got his money? I'll be investigating why Doom sold him the parts. Joker's too overt- It isn't his style."

Boxer pondered for a moment. "We can handle it. Why me, though? Why not Gordon?"

"The Comissioner is busy handling rebuilding the city. I need someone mobile and flexible. Your Runners are perfect." Batman replied.

Boxer turned towards the city skyline, listening to the sounds of the city. "You have my assurance, Batman. My Runners and I-" He turned and realized that the Bat had vanished. He chuckled. "Of course." He pulled out his radio. "Runners, I've got intel from Batman himself. All Points Bulletin on anyone Joker related. Quinn, the Daughter, any of his goons, all of them. We've got Red Robin on call to assist taking down any of the big bads."

"Find out where they got the money for military equipment, and shut it down. You report directly to me, and me alone. Let's do this."

---

On the other side of the city, one of Boxer's Runner entered the Marriott Theatre. "Knight, you in here? I'm with the GCPD. Gordon sent me here to make some arrests. Cash and Bullock are on another call."

---

The Reclaimer meditated in the outer edges of the Universe.

You use me to murder.
I use you to fulfil the will of Mistress Death.
I despise you.
Likewise

Suddenly, his eyes shot open, staring in the direction of Earth.

"What the Hell?"

He vanished, reforming in Attilan in his mortal guise. Anyone with even vague energy detection powers would be able to tell he was not as he appeared. He glanced around, seeing the Necromancer- But not sensing him.

What? That isn't possible. I can sense all things, living or undead, but this... Creature... Is invisible to me.
Perhaps your Mistress isn't as all-powerful as you thought.
Silence.

"You there. Who are you?" He narrowed his eyes, calling out towards the Necromancer.

---

Manifest raised his eyebrow at the centre of his Fortress. "Strange." He opened his Orb of Cognition, contacting Valka.

"Valka. I have thousands of Asgardian energy signatures in combat around Earth, and some rather odd other energies. You need me to come back?" He asked.

"Nay. The enemy shall fall shortly. Your presence is not required."

Manifest shrugged. "All right. Have a Merry Christmas once you're done."

"You as well, Manifest."

[The Starlight]

It's Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas
Part One - Craig

Craig walked the streets of Travenios, looking at all the colors and lights that ringed the buildings. Even those from alien worlds had gotten in the spirit of the holidays, and even now he could see telekinetics lifting lights onto their houses. There was a jolliness in the air, as Christmas music could be heard softly. The artificer wandered the city, handing out candy canes, little toys that seemed to be magical, and self-made donuts with green and red frosting. A red, Santa hat was on his head, and he smiled at the particular children he was handing his gifts out to, wishing them a Merry Christmas before proceeding on. The city-state had boomed in population, and businesses of all kinds had taken off. Especially, Hadrian businesses, the clothes of the Hadrians being quite popular. As the natives of Hadrimmelis could not have sleeves, straps were used to keep the clothes on the body, tied above the shoulders.

He looked up, seeing the giant Christmas tree crowning the top of Thomsen Tech, the roof being a green roof and able to grow vegetation. He had already started sending out invitations and cooking the food, to all his friends whom he thought would like to come, to join him on Christmas Day. But he had his own gifts to get ready, and so, he was glad that Etla was not home, allowing him to be able to make and buy her presents. This would be their first Christmas together, and so, Craig wanted to make it an especially great one. And so, realizing that he didn't know when Etla would come home, he rushed to their house, located within the HQ, several floors of it. And then, from there, he entered the Imaginarium. This was Craig's sanctum, his sanctuary, where the only other person allowed in was Etla. And covered in a black cloth were his gifts. The first, two snow globes. The first globe had several dancing figures, sculpted by the tiniest(and the most expensive) of carving tools, dancing on a fountain. The figures moved their hands and legs, and seemed to skate upon the fountain. But at their center was a figure with golden hair, clearly Etla. It was based on what Etla had told him of the Skyworld. The second snow globe had only one figure in it and it was clearly Craig, dressed in a longcoat. But he seemed to be looking out, his face pressed to the glass as he watched the dancing Rainborn. When the two snow globes were pressed together, the figure of Craig, astonishingly, broke the glass and seemed to walk into the snow globe of the Skyworld, and soon the figure of he and Etla danced, on a great mountain.

His second gift was a seemingly simple necklace, with a pendant that appeared to be a smooth stone. In actuality, the pendant would warm when another wearer of the necklace was near, and it could also project a holographic map displaying where the other wearer was. Thus, they would always know how to find each other.

His third gift was a mechanical cat, one he half-jokingly called Nick Furry. Although Etla already had a self-made bunny, and cats and rabbits did not historically get along, he hoped she would like his cat too, a sleek, black cat with fur that appeared to be real.

Making the finishing touches on them, he wrapped them after watching a tutorial online in his mind on how to do so, putting them under the indoor Christmas tree. And then, he was off again, flying off to Washington, D.C. And there, he opened the door to the Children's Hospital, walking in and waving to the receptionist, going to visit the kids. He tried to come as often as possible, though he had to fly there each time, as he was no longer based in the U.S. But some of these kids desperately needed hope, and if he could gladden their hearts a little, he would. And what better time for hope than Christmas. Opening the doors to their rooms, he was rushed by hugs, Craig wrapping his arms around them and chuckling, handing out their desired gifts, which he had learned from their caretaker, Mandy. A little while after that, he sat in a rocking chair, a warm fireplace flickering, and the kids seated around him, a book in his hands. And slowly opening it he began to read in his deep voice, saying,

"Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there..."

[Confederation of imperial states]

On the other side of the city, one of Boxer's Runner entered the Marriott Theatre. "Knight, you in here? I'm with the GCPD. Gordon sent me here to make some arrests. Cash and Bullock are on another call."

The Knight stood up, he'd been handcuffing the Penguin thugs, "We're just finishing up". The Knight gestured to nightwing who'd been keeping one foot on the chest of a handcuffed Cobblepot, pressing him down on his back. "Good, the GCPD is here, That'll help speed up things". The Knight stepped out of the way for the Runner and a few police officers to walk over and start moving the Thugs to the Transports. "14 Small time Penguin Cronies in total, and One tub of Blard of a Mob Boss". "I heard that you Sniffiling Chicagoan, I'll get you for this". The Knight walked over, Nightwing stepped off allowing The Knight to do what he needed, The Knight grabbed Penguin by the collar of his shirt, lifting him high up from the ground and looking him straight in the face.

The Knight muttered ina low voice, only Penguin could really hear what was said.
"Listen you Sniffiling Piece of Criminal Filth, I've given you one chance by only breaking a few of your ribs. But so help me if you continue to endanger innocents by taking them hostage at this size and scale, I'll make sure you never walk again". Penguin was partly intimidated, "The hell are you, Batman would never-", The Knight put his face very close to Penguin's, "I'm Not, Batman". The Knight dropped Penguin on the ground, penguin stumbling before getting up. The Knight pushed The penguin over to The Runner. "Do me a favor, and Have Him Locked up for a Long Time".

[The Fallen Jedi]

- Snip -

Supreme Demonic Dark God Alastir

OOC: I am going to assume that the Probe will be a psionic manifestation of Valka

Anger, Hatred, Passion

These three emotions were amongst the very few emotions that burned brightly within Alastir's Mental Walls, a psychic fire so raw, so untamed, and so rampant that none could hope to control, and in the middle of this burning fire sat Alastir, whose burning red eyes were closed shut, the mighty Demonic Dark God sat as if he were in deep meditation, but this was not the point as he suddenly opened his eyes, responding to Valka's Mental Probe into his subconscious, his face showing absolutely no expression as he stood up. Alastir then began to walk towards the mental wall where Valka's Probe began it's attack, but was all for naught as Alastir's Psionic Presence was significantly greater than most "Do you honestly believe that I will let you get in my way All-Mother?" Alastir grimly stopped, his head hanging low, but his eyes were still staring deeply into Valka's own "Throughout my life, I have felt such pain that not even you would be able to feel, and nothing was comparable to the sheer pain that my Galaxy felt, you believe that you are doing the right thing?" The fires within Alastir's psyche began to shoot up and surround Alastir's entire being, the burning embers of his psyche flying all around him.

"You will never understand my plight, All-Mother, to feel the darkest wishes of an entire Galaxy echoing through your mind, to feel and hear the cries of the tormented crying out for justice, to those who have lost loved ones as a result of the turmoil, but even though the pain will disappear with Satera's actions, their cries of torment and pain will never stop resonating, as long as they remember and know of their plight that existed long before, I will never be free from these eternal chains of damnation..." Alastir raised his finger up and pointed it towards the All-Mother "If you so wish to protect the Earth from my divine retribution, to prevent me from repaying the blood of my children with the Earth's Inhabitants own blood, In order to do so, you already know what has to be done, but do not assume that I will allow myself to die here, for the Earth needs to pay, for the sake of my own children..." With a mere wave of his hand, he dismissed Valka's Probe from his psyche, the mental fire burning greater than the temperature of the sun's surface...

"None of you will understand my struggle, and as the Avatar of my People's revenge and wrath, I will stop at nothing to assure that the Earth has it's day drowned in blood!" Alastir shot back with a sneer as in his left hand materialized the mighty Hakai No Ken, the very Sword of Destruction that once belonged to One himself, followed by the fabled Dagger of Mortis, which now served more or less like a secondary weapon to Alastir, but it's propertied included the capability of significantly harming divine entities, holy or unholy beings, it didn't matter in the slightest. Alastir was lucky to have summoned these weapons when he did, as Valka brought both Oathbringer and Gungnir down upon him, to which Alastir responded to bringing both the Hakai No Ken and the Dagger of Mortis to intercept the two mighty weapons forged by Asgard, and as expected, the clash between the two weapons was great, both the Hakai No Ken and the Dagger of Mortis beginning to spark with darkened energy, a small smirk forming on Alastir's face "Don't think that I've just decided to charge in wholesale without any backup plans All-Mother..." Alastir then sent out a mental message to the forces that waited within the asteroid belt...

Deep within the depths of the Asteroid belt, a mighty fleet of nearly eight hundred warships stood passively, their systems seemingly in a state of disrepair, but this was not the case whatsoever, this was indeed an active fleet that once belonged to the Masaki Dynasty, but Alastir made it appear that the ships had been so badly damaged from the asteroids that they were no threat in the slightest, until now. "Prepare for full-scale bombardment..." a voice stated from within the graveyard of Asteroids, this voice being Alpha 01-1 of the Masaki Dynasty, it's eyes overshadowed with dark red coloration, a circular sphere of red virtual data swirling around it which indicated the activity in the fleets. Within moments of the command being given, the entire fleet of eight hundred activated in a mighty flare of red and purple satanic symbols, their engines turning red as they lined themselves up along the edge of the asteroid field that aimed itself towards the planet of Earth "Assure that this attack will not destroy the Earth, Master Alastir desires only their punishment, not their immediate death And as instructed, the outer hull of the warships began to glow before opening up, and all It took was only one word for this to take place:

"Activate the Dark Energy Super Cannon..."

Within moments, the hull of all eight hundred warships spread apart slowly, a pure red glow emanating from within the very center of the ship itself, this large item was actually a superweapon that Alastir only took moments to produce, a weapon dubbed the Dark Energy Super Cannon, a weapon that would call upon the energy of dark energy within the very confines of both the demon realm and hell itself. As the ships fully opened themselves up, two large metallic spheres levitated to the sides of the primary weapon, with two compartments in these sphere's opening up, glowing purple as they began to absorb the dark energy from the deepest pits of Hell and the Demon Realm, It was safe to say that the surge of energy alone was enough to mark them as shining beacons in the Galactic Map. Not only was the sudden increase of energy so notable, but even a great distance from Earth their cannons lit up like beacons that began to shine like beacons in the dark "All cannons reporting a 100% Charge, hypothesis confirms that a continued bombardment of this caliber will be effective."

"Target the Shield that protects the Earth, full power, fire!"

With these fateful words, at the same time, all eight hundred set forth mighty beams of spiraling red and purple death towards the shield that protected Earth, these energy beams being so tightly compressed with energy that each beam was capable of rendering an entire planet as a charred wasteland of death and destruction, but these mighty weapons were equipped with kill-switches that would allow for the Earth to be spared from such a demise, this went according to Alastir's wishes, as he desired to not destroy the Earth nor it's governments, just to make sure that enough fear would be incited to the point that they would think twice about challenging the authority of the Immortals by attacking their own home Galaxy.

[The Silhouette of Adventure]

On the other side of the city, one of Boxer's Runner entered the Marriott Theatre. "Knight, you in here? I'm with the GCPD. Gordon sent me here to make some arrests. Cash and Bullock are on another call."

The Knight stood up, he'd been handcuffing the Penguin thugs, "We're just finishing up". The Knight gestured to nightwing who'd been keeping one foot on the chest of a handcuffed Cobblepot, pressing him down on his back. "Good, the GCPD is here, That'll help speed up things". The Knight stepped out of the way for the Runner and a few police officers to walk over and start moving the Thugs to the Transports. "14 Small time Penguin Cronies in total, and One tub of Blard of a Mob Boss". "I heard that you Sniffiling Chicagoan, I'll get you for this". The Knight walked over, Nightwing stepped off allowing The Knight to do what he needed, The Knight grabbed Penguin by the collar of his shirt, lifting him high up from the ground and looking him straight in the face.

The Knight muttered ina low voice, only Penguin could really hear what was said.
"Listen you Sniffiling Piece of Criminal Filth, I've given you one chance by only breaking a few of your ribs. But so help me if you continue to endanger innocents by taking them hostage at this size and scale, I'll make sure you never walk again". Penguin was partly intimidated, "The hell are you, Batman would never-", The Knight put his face very close to Penguin's, "I'm Not, Batman". The Knight dropped Penguin on the ground, penguin stumbling before getting up. The Knight pushed The penguin over to The Runner. "Do me a favor, and Have Him Locked up for a Long Time".

The Runner narrowed his eyes. "You're quite a piece of work, aren't you Knight?" He shook his head. "Anyway. My colleagues are going to arrest the Penguin and his goons, and you are going to come with me. Boxer, my boss, wants a word. We've got an ongoing investigation into the Joker toxin attacks. We already have one of the Bat's Robins as an agent, but it'd be useful to have you on board. Details are restricted to those involved. You in?"

---

Inside the GCPD Headquarters

"You all know why we're here." Boxer's expression was stone cold and ruthless. Before him, in the GCPD's unofficial 'War Room,' the Red Robin and the Runners, with the exception of the one sent to get Knight, were gathered. "Two days ago, the Joker set off seventeen Toxin bombs in key locations around Gotham, including Gotham General and the GCPD's old Headquarters. Casualties are still unknown. We lost that day, and the only reason we're not dead is the Bat Family. As of right now, everyone in this room is privy to classified intel provided by the Bat. This does not leave this room except when I or Gordon authorizes it. As of now, it's time for the Runners to earn our stripes. You'll find a file underneath your seat with everything that we know."

He waited a moment for the officers and Robin to get their files. "The Joker purchased military-grade chemicals and bomb equipment from Latveria. Batman is en route to investigate. Our job is to figure out the Joker gang's income supply, take down the rest of their safehouses. We have two major targets. Duela Dent, aka Joker's Daughter. Maniacal obsession with the Joker, to the point of falsifying parentage records and going on several murdering sprees. She's just as, if not more, dangerous than the average Supervillain. If sighted, evade and call in Mask reinforcements. Also, Harleen Quinzel, aka Harley Quinn. Presumably, she's dead." Boxer sighed. "I don't believe it. No body, not dead. Everyone knows her story, not going to reiterate it. Same orders as Joker's Daughter. Everyone here is authorized to call in a SWAT assault, but I am ordering you to do it carefully and rarely. Joker's gang is large, and presumably he had men inside the GCPD. I personally vetted everyone here, but few others can be one hundred percent trusted. I'm making the calls, and my orders supersede everyone's except Gordon."

Boxer paused. "This is a dangerous assignment. Joker could get out at any moment- He has a habit of breaking out of Arkham. I don't doubt that some of us will die. If you're frightened, if your scared, if you are afraid, you have every right to pull out. If not, you've got your assignments in your folder. Move out."

He turned towards the Red Robin. "You're my lieutenant. Your folder includes profiles on all my men, as well as their strengths and weaknesses. If the Joker has men inside this city, we'll find them. I also have two of my men investigating the GCPD itself, searching for internal threats."

"Good." Red Robin nodded. "Let's get too it. Is Knight en route?"

"Not yet."

[The Starlight]

-snip-

The psionic manifestation of Valka formed into her actual body as she responded, while her actual body battled with Alastir with swords and spears and daggers."You have indeed lived longer than I, I believe. But do not think you are the only one who knows the meaning of pain. I have died and been reborn dozens of times, if not hundreds of times, by the many Ragnaroks Asgard has undergone. You say you have felt such pain that I have never felt? I lost my hand when I was only 500 years old, and I sacrificed it for the best of friends. I do not regret it, but I do remember it. I am not just a queen, I am a mother, moreover, I am All-Mother. I killed myself with my own blade to save my daughter, and I traveled the hells of the Earth, fighting battle after battle after battle to save her. All-Mother is not simply a title, Alastir, it is a role, I play."

"In the caverns beneath the Lake of Remembrance, I hear a girl whispering to her little brother, that all will be safe, and that their father will come home safe. My warriors even now charge into battle and prepare for death, each of their lips moving, reciting the Warrior's Oath. For when I called upon them, they came, without question. That is loyalty. That is honor. The leaves of Yggdrasil stir, the sun hangs in the sky, the hearth flickers on in the halls despite them being nearly empty. The children and the fathers and mothers are in their homes, their eyes lifted upwards Can you hear them? I do. I hear their prayers, I remember their names, I bid them good night, for I am their mother. When they weep, I am there, when their eyes open for the last time, I am there, when they breathe their last in a bed or upon a battefield, I am there, for I am the mother of them all." she finished softly, a soft smile on her face as she recalled her realm.

"I extend this offer once more, Alastir. Stop this, before I must destroy he whom I called ally and friend and brother. The blood-debt has been paid, for Eiling's blood has been split. The same amount of blood does not need to be split to fulfill the blood-debt. Go to the death entities, bargain for your galaxy. Vengeance has been taken. Asgardians die in battle too often. But do I go ravage worlds in revenge? Nay, we carve their names upon the Wall, and I make a statue of each and everyone. I will be making more statues when this day is over, I should think. So for both of our sakes, withdraw thy army, and let us not fight."

"Is this what thy people truly want? Moreover, think on this, Alastir. Let us imagine that you do not draw back thy armies, and fulfill your blood-lust. What then? Do you think the Midgardians will simply let you go? It is not for naught that one of their teams is called "The Avengers." Some of thy galaxy still remains, but if you spill the blood of Midgardians, be assured that they will look for thy galaxy, they will find it, and they will destroy the rest of it in their rage. Do not doubt their capabilities," she said.

"This, Alastir, is thy final chance," the psionic manifestation said. "Heed my words, or pay for it at great cost. For we both know how this shall end if you continue to fight."

She pushed back against Alastir's sword and dagger, channeling the Valkaforce through her swords, all the while attempting to weaken the strength of the weapons using her metal weapons. And as they were nearly face to face, she swept a leg under his, to at least break his balance as their weapons clashed and sparked.

[Charmera]

Cora's First Christmas
Cora sat on her(well her and Katie's bed as she folded her clothes to put them into her new draw. She was moving her stuff into Katie's room that day. Since they decided they wanted to start sharing a room and Cora didn't have nearly as much stuff as Katie, it only made sense that she would be the one to move. As anxious and excited she was about, there was something else on her mind as well, Christmas.

Cora was vaguely familiar with the holiday and had already been exposed to the decorations and the music, however... it just wasn't clicking. She didn't understand the holiday, or what it had to do with a baby being born thousands of years ago. Still Cora knew how excited Katie was about their first Christmas together so she had tried to do some research and figure out what was so important about this holiday, but nothing was clicking. She could always fake her enthusiasm, but that felt dishonest and she didn't want to lie to Katie, Sighing the cyborg went on with her task, wondering why this thing called Christmas was so difficult to understand.

Katie chuckled as she electrically slipped through the building walls, appearing behind her lover and hugging her from behind. "Hey Cora." She spoke, spinning herself around in joy, having barely been able to sit still for the past few days. "In the words of a famous song, "It's the most wonderful time of the year!"" she exclaimed, twirling like a ballerina. "Don't worry Cora, I'll teach you all about Christmas. Shame you can't meet my family, but they're all in Maine now for the reunion, and I can't be there for... well obvious superhero reasons." She remarked.

-snip-

The psionic manifestation of Valka formed into her actual body as she responded, while her actual body battled with Alastir with swords and spears and daggers."You have indeed lived longer than I, I believe. But do not think you are the only one who knows the meaning of pain. I have died and been reborn dozens of times, if not hundreds of times, by the many Ragnaroks Asgard has undergone. You say you have felt such pain that I have never felt? I lost my hand when I was only 500 years old, and I sacrificed it for the best of friends. I do not regret it, but I do remember it. I am not just a queen, I am a mother, moreover, I am All-Mother. I killed myself with my own blade to save my daughter, and I traveled the hells of the Earth, fighting battle after battle after battle to save her. All-Mother is not simply a title, Alastir, it is a role, I play."

"In the caverns beneath the Lake of Remembrance, I hear a girl whispering to her little brother, that all will be safe, and that their father will come home safe. My warriors even now charge into battle and prepare for death, each of their lips moving, reciting the Warrior's Oath. For when I called upon them, they came, without question. That is loyalty. That is honor. The leaves of Yggdrasil stir, the sun hangs in the sky, the hearth flickers on in the halls despite them being nearly empty. The children and the fathers and mothers are in their homes, their eyes lifted upwards Can you hear them? I do. I hear their prayers, I remember their names, I bid them good night, for I am their mother. When they weep, I am there, when their eyes open for the last time, I am there, when they breathe their last in a bed or upon a battefield, I am there, for I am the mother of them all." she finished softly, a soft smile on her face as she recalled her realm.

"I extend this offer once more, Alastir. Stop this, before I must destroy he whom I called ally and friend and brother. The blood-debt has been paid, for Eiling's blood has been split. The same amount of blood does not need to be split to fulfill the blood-debt. Go to the death entities, bargain for your galaxy. Vengeance has been taken. Asgardians die in battle too often. But do I go ravage worlds in revenge? Nay, we carve their names upon the Wall, and I make a statue of each and everyone. I will be making more statues when this day is over, I should think. So for both of our sakes, withdraw thy army, and let us not fight."

"Is this what thy people truly want? Moreover, think on this, Alastir. Let us imagine that you do not draw back thy armies, and fulfill your blood-lust. What then? Do you think the Midgardians will simply let you go? It is not for naught that one of their teams is called "The Avengers." Some of thy galaxy still remains, but if you spill the blood of Midgardians, be assured that they will look for thy galaxy, they will find it, and they will destroy the rest of it in their rage. Do not doubt their capabilities," she said.

"This, Alastir, is thy final chance," the psionic manifestation said. "Heed my words, or pay for it at great cost. For we both know how this shall end if you continue to fight."

She pushed back against Alastir's sword and dagger, channeling the Valkaforce through her swords, all the while attempting to weaken the strength of the weapons using her metal weapons. And as they were nearly face to face, she swept a leg under his, to at least break his balance as their weapons clashed and sparked.

"Hey there Valka." Spoke a voice from behind the All Mother. Katie seemed surprisingly casual despite the fact there was some sort of invasion. She was wearing some sort of space suit. "Sorry, the rest can't be here... well I don't know if they can't or anything it's just I got here first." She remarked, shotgun in hand as she pulled it out. "Need any help with this whole debacle? I mean I feel like I should since they're invading earth, my home." She remarked.

[Tomia]

Cora's First Christmas
Cora sat on her(well her and Katie's bed as she folded her clothes to put them into her new draw. She was moving her stuff into Katie's room that day. Since they decided they wanted to start sharing a room and Cora didn't have nearly as much stuff as Katie, it only made sense that she would be the one to move. As anxious and excited she was about, there was something else on her mind as well, Christmas.

Cora was vaguely familiar with the holiday and had already been exposed to the decorations and the music, however... it just wasn't clicking. She didn't understand the holiday, or what it had to do with a baby being born thousands of years ago. Still Cora knew how excited Katie was about their first Christmas together so she had tried to do some research and figure out what was so important about this holiday, but nothing was clicking. She could always fake her enthusiasm, but that felt dishonest and she didn't want to lie to Katie, Sighing the cyborg went on with her task, wondering why this thing called Christmas was so difficult to understand.

Katie chuckled as she electrically slipped through the building walls, appearing behind her lover and hugging her from behind. "Hey Cora." She spoke, spinning herself around in joy, having barely been able to sit still for the past few days. "In the words of a famous song, "It's the most wonderful time of the year!"" she exclaimed, twirling like a ballerina. "Don't worry Cora, I'll teach you all about Christmas. Shame you can't meet my family, but they're all in Maine now for the reunion, and I can't be there for... well obvious superhero reasons." She remarked.

Cora couldn't help but smile when she felt Katie's arms around her as she sat on the bed. She leaned back and kissed her girlfriend lovingly. "Why do you always popped when I'm doing laundry?" Cora asked jokingly. She couldn't help but laugh as she watched Katie dance like a little girl. Even though she still wasn't sure about Christmas, she loved how happy it made Katie.

Cora frowned a little though when Katie talked about missing her family. Cora gracefully hopped off the bed and wrapped her arms around Katie. "Well I'm sure we could take one day off to see them right? I mean, the rest of the team can cover for us for a day. I'm sure they would understand." Cora said to Katie, wanting to make her happy, and knowing that seeing her family would make her really happy.