Post by Deleted on Mar 31, 2015 6:14:53 GMT -5
Titans of Justice Unlimited Chapter 21 – “Furious Entry!”
Written by: Scotty2Hotty & Power Guy
Edited by: Power Guy
The Hall of Justice…
Wonder Girl rolled her eyes as she watched Wonder Man chat on his phone to Jerrica Benton aka Jemstone.
“I know. I miss you too………..uh huh…new lingerie?…..Jerrica, you are a naughty, naughty girl!” Wonder Man chuckled as he held his phone to his ear.
“The way he goes on and on about her….I’m going to barf.” the young Amazon thought to herself as Stratohawk, Firebrand, and Palome entered the hall.
“I can’t stay long. I’m just here to collect the rest of my things. I have an……appointment and I can’t be late. I’m meeting my Aunt Toni for lunch” The young empath said as he made his way to his former room.
Stratohawk and Firebrand made small talk with Wonder Girl as they couldn’t help but overhear Wonder Man’s conversation.
“Dating has certainly changed since my day.” The pretty red head mused as she and Stratohawk sat down at the meeting table. “Women are certainly more…..confident these days.”
“I can imagine it’s been odd adjusting.” Strato Hawk’s deep voice boomed.
“It’s been a bit unsettling, but at least I have Phantom Lady and Dr. Fate who can relate. Sandra has been trying to get me to accompany her to one of those all male revues.”
Wonder Girl was about to say something as the Trouble Alert sounded.
“Titans! There’s big trouble at the United Nations building in New York!” It was Steve Trevor, father of Wonder Man. “I was here on military business and Fausta and bunch of women—I don’t know who they are—are going crazy and killing anyone they can get their hands on! Hurry!” the retired military man urged as the transmission went dead.
“Hey Romeo! Tell Juliet good bye! There’s big trouble in New York!” Wonder Girl shouted to Wonder Man. He quickly closed his phone and raced over to the group. “What’s up?” he asked.
Stratohawk spoke up. “We’ll fill you in on the way, but your dad may be in trouble. Firebrand you come with us. Wonder Girl, you stay here and watch the Trouble Alert.
“But..” the pony tailed teen argued.
“No buts about it, young lady. You’re not ready to go up against Fausta and we may need you to summon reinforcements. Fausta is no lightweight.
“Come on, my jet is in the hanger….” Wonder Man said rushing outside, “Please let Dad be ok…” he whispered to himself.
Stratohawk had already streaked into the sky while Firebrand and Wonder Man were about to board the Invisible Jet
.
“WAIT!” came a voice. It was Palome. “I sense you are going to need me. Otherwise it will be three against four. My retirement can wait for one more mission.”
“Well don’t just stand there young man! Come on!” Firebrand urged as the jet lifted off.
***
New York City…
At the United Nations, Fausta, Star Sapphire, and Tsukuri were causing all kinds of havoc. Government officials and pedestrians were scrambling for cover as Steve Trevor watched helplessly. Despite his age, he still looked almost as young as his son—or at least more like an older brother—perhaps due to the enchantments on Paradise Island.
“Amerikans! Citizens of the world, behold the power of Deutschland! The power of pure untainted genetic superiority!” Fausta shouted. Her cohorts were attacking people left and right.
“Watch this dear Fausta!” Star Sapphire screeched. Steve noticed the woman emit a purple glow and as she attacked a group of people running from a sandwich shop. The former perpetual first runner-up caused several of the UN windows to shatter, showering the fleeing pedestrians in jagged glass.
Tsukuri was quiet, but deadly nonetheless. She hurled throwing stars at anyone near her and grinned ear to ear when one struck a man in the chest and sliced him open. “Fausta! Look over there! You can start eliminating the future of this damned country here and now!”
Fausta saw what the Asian warrior was talking about. A group of children on a field trip had safely made their way to their bus in the garage. “Ah, look at them all! Children from all nations mixed together! If only Herr Hitler were here!” she clapped her hands in glee and stormed towards the school bus. The young teacher’s eyes widened in horror as she saw the German powerhouse running like a cheetah towards the vehicle.
“Children! Get down! NOW!!!” she screamed as she felt the bus being lifted.
“Who shall die on this bus!? Perhaps someone who would work for peace? Someone who would mend the wounds of battling nations?” We shall never know! Hahaha!!!!” Fausta laughed as she prepared to smash the bus and the screaming inhabitants into a concrete bridge entrance.
Just then, Fausta felt the bus become lighter. “Who is helping me!? Let me see your face and we will smash this bus of filth together!” she smiled.
“Has anyone suggested veneers for you?” Wonder Man said smiling.
“ACKKKKKK!!!!!!! What are you doing here, bastard grandson of Hippolyta!? No matter, you will die with these lambs!” she screamed letting go of the bus. Wonder Man shifted his legs and bore the full weight of the bus.
“Look! It’s Wonder Man!!” one of the children shouted. “He saved us!” another child said as the kids erupted into applause.
“No one dies today!” Stratohawk yelled as he flew into Fausta’s back, knocking her down the block.
“Oh, I think you may die today.” Tsukuri said as she appeared out of nowhere and slashed Stratohawk’s back with a gleaming blade.
Stratohawk was furious but said nothing as he engaged Tsukuri in battle. He met her blow for blow with his mace. “Impressive Hawk-Man, but I will deal the killing blow soon enough.”
Firebrand had her hands full with Star Sapphire. “I have read about you Firebrand. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to burned alive?”
“Not really dear. Have you?” Firebrand retorted as she sent a wall of flames at Star Sapphire. The manic woman was caught off guard and appeared confused at Firebrand’s powers.
Steve Trevor watched as Wonder Man sat the bus down and Fausta charged towards his son.
“Wonder Man! Look out!” Steve shouted.
Wonder Man spun around to see Fausta growling like an animal and running head on towards him. Wonder Man lept into the air and Fausta crashed into the side of a building.
“Ha, it was merely like the sting of a gnat! It will take more than a man-made barrier to stop me, Wonder Whelp!” Fausta screamed, her nose gushing blood. She pulled our her new whip and was ready to strike Wonder Man with it when suddenly she was interrupted.
“Perhaps, murderess. But, are you ready to face your own actions and accept your responsibility?” Palome said stepping forward. He released his Soulself and it encompassed Fausta.
“Palome, be careful! She has no remorse!” Wonder Man shouted as he landed next to his teammate.
Stratohawk had ensnared Tsukuri in an Nth metal net and had wrapped her ankles with a bola, rendering the venom mouthed woman helpless. He could feel the Nth metal in his costume healing his back and despite his wings being damaged, he lifted Tsukuri into the air and dropped her in a trashcan. “Don’t go anywhere. It’s trash day, and it appears they forgot you.” He smiled.
Tsukuri swore at the winged hero in her native tongue and struggled in vain with her bonds.
Firebrand was holding her own against Star Sapphire, however the she seemed to be getting the upper hand as she engaged the golden age legend in hand to hand combat.
“You think you’re prettier than me, don’t you! You and your red hair! I’ll burn it off your damned head!!!!“ Star Sapphire spat.
Firebrand noticed her fire powers were no longer affecting Star Sapphire as the magenta-clad villainess had surrounded herself with a force-field and she had no choice but to physically fight the woman. Just then Stratohawk shakily flew by and grabbed the villainess by the hair of the head.
“Let me down, you winged freak! You‘re like the rest of them--always coming to the less beautiful‘s defense! I‘ll rip you limb from limb!” she shrieked.
“I think you’re all talk and you need to get over yourself.“ Stratohawk groaned as he slammed his mace into the former pageant contestant’s head. “There, now sleep and dream of winning that elusive crown.“
Thanks for the assist!” Firebrand said, smiling up at Stratohawk.
“Anything for a lady!” he replied as the duo made their way over to Wonder Man and Palome’.
Fausta was struggling within the Soulself and cursing with every breath.
“She resists the Soulself! Impossible--No one should be able to do that!” Palome gasped, struggling with his concentration.
Wonder Man noticed it was getting dark all of a sudden. Palome cried out, “Dying!! Everything is dying—even the plants—can’t you hear---?”
Wonder Man, Firebrand, and Stratohawk all felt dread as they looked to the sky and saw a garish woman floating above them. She was almost totally nude except for a few flowing scarves, strategically placed jewels, and small pieces of gold. From his hiding place across the way, Steve Trevor could see the trees and foliage that lined the UN plaza wither and die.
“Fausta! You told me you didn’t need my help! Aren’t you glad I’m such a good friend!” the dark woman laughed.
Palome grabbed Firebrand’s arm. “S…She…is all things dark and evil….I can’t……”
Just then, Fausta screamed as the Soul-self shattered and disappeared. “Your trickery won’t work on me, gypsy filth! I know of your alien origins as well! For your mockery of genetics, you must be made an example!”
“Nefertiti! Kill them all!!! Show the world your desire for suffering!” Fausta shouted to the woman in the sky.
“Of course, sweet Nazi!” Nefertiti opened her mouth and released her flame breath, directing it Stratohawk. He screamed as it burned at his costume and he dropped to his knees.
Nefertiti then charged at Wonder Man and Firebrand before either of them could react. She slammed their heads together knocking them out.
“Oh God! No!” Steve shouted, running towards his son.
“Don’t bother me little man!” Nefertiti glared, causing Steve Trevor to feel fear to his very soul. He stopped in his tracks, terrified to move. He was relieved to see his son stir.
“What do we do with you gypsy boy?” Fausta said, grabbing Palome by the throat.
Palome was in shock due to the Soul self’s apparent destruction. Fausta lifted him into the air.” I’m going to enjoy this more than when I sent Hippolyta’s sidekick, Drusilla to Hell.”
“Wait! Fausta, you have had so many! There might be some use for this one after all.” Nefertiti smiled, her eyes glowing red.
“Ah! Of course--how could I be so selfish! I’ll let you have this one.” Fausta smiled as Star Sapphire and Tsukuri made their way to the women. “I see you freed yourselves! Good work, girls.”
“Courtesy of the Egyptian.” Tsukuri smirked.
“Now, don’t be afraid! Don’t you find me the most beautiful woman you have gazed upon?” Nefertiti hissed as she sat atop the prostate empath. Palome was trying to keep his concentration but all of the uncontrolled mayhem and horror emanating from the woman was too much for him.
“Get away from him…” Wonder Man said struggling to stand.
“You be quiet! Can’t you see I’m working?” Nefertiti snarled as she directed her fire breath at Steve Trevor. “There, go save the general! Hahahahaha!!!”
Wonder Man flew towards his father and lifted him out of harm’s way.
“Dad, lay low and don’t try to help—no matter what! Try to call Mom--” Wonder Man said, flying back to the fight.
Steve had worried about his wife and now he was having to worry about his son. “Be careful, kid.” He whispered. Steve knew his wife was unreachable as she had been summoned to Mount Olympus for a meeting with Zeus.
By now Firebrand was awake and Stratohawk, despite being injured were trying to distract Nefertiti and her allies away from Palome.
“I have had enough of this!” Star Sapphire said as she created a force field separating herself and her teammates along with Palome from Firebrand, Stratohawk, and Wonder Man.
The three heroes pounded on the magenta barrier to no avail. Tsukuri, Fausta, and Star Sapphire all laughed at the panicked heroes.
Nefertiti smiled at Star Sapphire. “Thank you. I was getting so sick of those fools interrupting us” She stuck her hands up Palome’s shirt and and dug her nails into his chest. She leaned in close to his face. “Awwww, is this your first time? I‘ll be gentle my little gypsy, I promise.”
Palome tried to turn his head. Nefertiti’s breath was like all of the most foul odors he had encountered rolled into one. She grinded her body on his and whispered, “Just a kiss? One little kiss, pleeeaassse?”
Palome struggled to summon the Soul-self to no avail. He tried to summon every ounce of strength he had left but he could barely move a muscle.
Nefertiti grabbed Palome’s head and kissed him deeply. He struggled as his mind imploded into a whirl of sinister images and dark colors. He could feel his skin ripping from the very bone.
Nefertiti’s teammates had never seen her do this before and were taken aback.
Even the usually glib Fausta was speechless.
Nefertiti continued kissing Palome as his body took on an ashen/skeletal appearance. The other girls smelled sulphur and rot.
Nefertiti raised her head and wiped her mouth. “Any of you girls got a smoke? The gypsy really wore me out!” she cackled. “Can we stop at a bar?”
The other 3 women just stared at her wide-eyed and finally Fausta broke out into applause. “Not even the death camps contained such horror!!!” She then went onto to exclaiming in German as Star Sapphire jumped up and down with glee. Tsukuri smiled silently.
“Nefertiti is one to watch.” The suspicious ninja assassin thought to herself.
Wonder Man, Firebrand, and Stratohawk were speechless—and helpless as they watched the scene from outside the barrier. They were even more shocked when the unrecognizable body of their teammate shakily stood up.
“What now, Nefertiti? How does he live?” Star Saphhire gasped.
“He doesn’t live. He is the first one for Anubis’s un-dead army! Star Sapphire, drop your barrier and let these people reunite with their teammate!” Nefertiti requested.
Star Sapphire did so as Tsukuri pressed a button on her glove and all 4 women vanished.
“What…what did they do to him?” Firebrand asked horrified.
“She turned him into some sort of mummy!” Stratohawk answered.
“But…Palome—that’s not him—not anymore. My ability to see the truth tells me that his soul is struggling within that shell. We can’t let him..” Wonder Man started as Stratohawk took off towards the lumbering figure.
Palome swung at Stratohawk. “Firebrand! You have to burn him--it’s the only we to…to free him and allow him to rest in peace!”
“Oh Good Lord! That poor boy!” she stammered.
“I know this will be difficult but you’ve got to do like Stratohawk said. Our friend is gone.” Wonder Man said, placing his hand on Firebrand’s shoulder.
Palome released a gutteral growl as his frame wobbled towards the woman.
“God forgive me…” Firebrand said as she began to glow and released a flame stronger than she ever had before. The flames covered Palome as he let out a scream like that of a wounded animal.
“Keep it up!” Wonder Man said as he and Stratohawk stepped back from the heat. He noticed that Firebrand had nearly turned into a being of pure flame.
The burning empath dropped to his knees and slowly turned to ash.
Firebrand dropped to the ground and Wonder Man raced to her side. Stratohawk joined him.
“She’ll be ok, she’s just spent.” Stratohawk said, stroking the woman’s hair.
“You got that right. I don’t think I could ever do that again…” she said passing out.
Steve Trevor had rejoined his son and Stratohawk.
“Scott, look around.” He implored.
Wonder Man and Stratohawk looked around at what used to be a teeming and full of life U.N. plaza. All of the foliage was dead and twisted. The once impressive buildings had turned to stone and crumbled.
Stratohawk looked at his teammate. He didn’t have to say a word as his expression said it all.
Steve Trevor put his arm around his son. Wonder Man looked at his father, searching his face for an answer…or some explanation. Wonder Man felt fear…a type of fear he had not experienced since he was a child and thunderstorms threatened Paradise Island.
***
The home of Sargon The Sorcerer…
Jemstone made her way up the walk-way and stopped in front of the door, ringing the doorbell gently.
A few seconds later, the door swung open, “Jerrica! Thank you so much for coming over!” greeted Sargona as she hugged her best friend. “Please come in. What’s in the bag?”
“Oh just something I picked up to wear for Scott tonight,” Jemstone smiled as she made her way into the lavish mansion. The two ladies sat down on a large, leather couch in the foyer.
“Sar, I’ve never seen you like this before. You seem so frazzled,” observed Jemstone. “What’s going on?”
“Well, as you may have heard, during the whole mess with Professor Ivo, I learned that Zatanna is my mother,” began Sargona. “For all of these years, I was under the impression that my mother was dead and come to find out, she’s alive and well and a liar!”
“Have you confronted her about this?” asked Jerrica, sympathetically.
“No – not yet,” answered the raven-haired beauty. “I’m still struggling with what I want to say. I mean, do I just walk up to her and go off on her or do I just ask her why she abandoned me all of those years ago? I just don’t know what to do.”
“What about your father? Have you asked him about this? Oh wait, I should keep it down, he’s probably in the other room isn’t he?” assumed Jemstone.
“No, he’s away at the magicians’ conference in Salem,” revealed Sargona. “I haven’t talked to him about this either. He and I have always been so close over the years and I’m just beside myself over the fact that he’s been lying to me too. He’s always looked out for my best interests even when he’s being completely annoying but he’s a good man. At least I thought so until now.”
“Well Sar, he may be just as much of a victim in all of this as you are,” pointed out the girlfriend of Wonder Man.
“What are you talking about???” Sargona asked, confused.
“Now, I’m not trying to bash anyone here but you remember those stories we heard about Zatanna performing those mind-wipes years ago? Perhaps she mindwiped your father into forgetting about his relationship with her….” explained the pop-star.
“OH MY GOD!” exclaimed Sargona. “I never thought of that…but you’re probably right. This is getting so crazy!”
“Well no matter how this all plays out, you still have me, Celeste, and Venus,” Jemstone said, putting her arm around Sargona, “We’ll always be here for you no matter what.”
Sargona hugged her dear friend and replied, “Thank you Jerrica. I can’t tell you how much your support means to me.”
“Hey, try to think of something positive,” suggested Jemstone. “Focus on that for now until you figure out what to do about your parents,” offered the former lead singer of the Holograms.
***
The Hall of Justice…
Black Orchid sat in front of the monitor, severely annoyed. She had relieved Wonder Girl from monitor-duty about 2 hours ago and was growing quite bored. “Here I am, stuck in front of this giant boob-tube,” complained the purple-clad heroine.
Suddenly, Nightvision teleported in and made his way towards the computer console. “Good evening, Venus.”
“Well it’s about time you show your face around here,” growled the former member of the Suicide Squad.
“Excuse me?” Nightvision replied in a deep tone.
“Don’t you ‘excuse me’ me! You’ve been keeping me locked up here in the Hall when there have been plenty of missions I could be going on,” spat the woman also known as Venus. “I probably could have taken out that giant Kryptonite meteor by myself.”
“Doubtful,”
“But did I even get a call?” asked Black Orchid angrily, as she punched the wall behind her, denting the steel surface. “NO! Then you go up against that Fantastic-thing and when you put together your strike-force, do you even bother to see what I’m doing? Nope! Even though I’m one of the few Titans who could have nearly matched his power. I’m getting sick of being passed on by for all of these newbies!”
“Venus…’ started the new-age Dark Knight, “You know why you haven’t been put on any recent missions. After you were declared innocent by the courts for your actions when you were under the Floronic Man’s control, there was a lot of public outcry. We need to give the general population time to come to terms with all of this.”
“So how long do I have to wait?” demanded Black Orchid. “Another six months? A year? How long is it going to be???”
“I’ll let you know,” Nightvision replied as he turned to exit the room.
“You’ll ‘let me know’?” repeated Black Orchid. “This is ridiculous! I got more respect when I was a stripper! I’m out of here!” she said, flying through the skylight.
Nightvision looked up and grumbled to himself, “Just great. Now what is she going to do?”
Written by: Scotty2Hotty & Power Guy
Edited by: Power Guy
The Hall of Justice…
Wonder Girl rolled her eyes as she watched Wonder Man chat on his phone to Jerrica Benton aka Jemstone.
“I know. I miss you too………..uh huh…new lingerie?…..Jerrica, you are a naughty, naughty girl!” Wonder Man chuckled as he held his phone to his ear.
“The way he goes on and on about her….I’m going to barf.” the young Amazon thought to herself as Stratohawk, Firebrand, and Palome entered the hall.
“I can’t stay long. I’m just here to collect the rest of my things. I have an……appointment and I can’t be late. I’m meeting my Aunt Toni for lunch” The young empath said as he made his way to his former room.
Stratohawk and Firebrand made small talk with Wonder Girl as they couldn’t help but overhear Wonder Man’s conversation.
“Dating has certainly changed since my day.” The pretty red head mused as she and Stratohawk sat down at the meeting table. “Women are certainly more…..confident these days.”
“I can imagine it’s been odd adjusting.” Strato Hawk’s deep voice boomed.
“It’s been a bit unsettling, but at least I have Phantom Lady and Dr. Fate who can relate. Sandra has been trying to get me to accompany her to one of those all male revues.”
Wonder Girl was about to say something as the Trouble Alert sounded.
“Titans! There’s big trouble at the United Nations building in New York!” It was Steve Trevor, father of Wonder Man. “I was here on military business and Fausta and bunch of women—I don’t know who they are—are going crazy and killing anyone they can get their hands on! Hurry!” the retired military man urged as the transmission went dead.
“Hey Romeo! Tell Juliet good bye! There’s big trouble in New York!” Wonder Girl shouted to Wonder Man. He quickly closed his phone and raced over to the group. “What’s up?” he asked.
Stratohawk spoke up. “We’ll fill you in on the way, but your dad may be in trouble. Firebrand you come with us. Wonder Girl, you stay here and watch the Trouble Alert.
“But..” the pony tailed teen argued.
“No buts about it, young lady. You’re not ready to go up against Fausta and we may need you to summon reinforcements. Fausta is no lightweight.
“Come on, my jet is in the hanger….” Wonder Man said rushing outside, “Please let Dad be ok…” he whispered to himself.
Stratohawk had already streaked into the sky while Firebrand and Wonder Man were about to board the Invisible Jet
.
“WAIT!” came a voice. It was Palome. “I sense you are going to need me. Otherwise it will be three against four. My retirement can wait for one more mission.”
“Well don’t just stand there young man! Come on!” Firebrand urged as the jet lifted off.
***
New York City…
At the United Nations, Fausta, Star Sapphire, and Tsukuri were causing all kinds of havoc. Government officials and pedestrians were scrambling for cover as Steve Trevor watched helplessly. Despite his age, he still looked almost as young as his son—or at least more like an older brother—perhaps due to the enchantments on Paradise Island.
“Amerikans! Citizens of the world, behold the power of Deutschland! The power of pure untainted genetic superiority!” Fausta shouted. Her cohorts were attacking people left and right.
“Watch this dear Fausta!” Star Sapphire screeched. Steve noticed the woman emit a purple glow and as she attacked a group of people running from a sandwich shop. The former perpetual first runner-up caused several of the UN windows to shatter, showering the fleeing pedestrians in jagged glass.
Tsukuri was quiet, but deadly nonetheless. She hurled throwing stars at anyone near her and grinned ear to ear when one struck a man in the chest and sliced him open. “Fausta! Look over there! You can start eliminating the future of this damned country here and now!”
Fausta saw what the Asian warrior was talking about. A group of children on a field trip had safely made their way to their bus in the garage. “Ah, look at them all! Children from all nations mixed together! If only Herr Hitler were here!” she clapped her hands in glee and stormed towards the school bus. The young teacher’s eyes widened in horror as she saw the German powerhouse running like a cheetah towards the vehicle.
“Children! Get down! NOW!!!” she screamed as she felt the bus being lifted.
“Who shall die on this bus!? Perhaps someone who would work for peace? Someone who would mend the wounds of battling nations?” We shall never know! Hahaha!!!!” Fausta laughed as she prepared to smash the bus and the screaming inhabitants into a concrete bridge entrance.
Just then, Fausta felt the bus become lighter. “Who is helping me!? Let me see your face and we will smash this bus of filth together!” she smiled.
“Has anyone suggested veneers for you?” Wonder Man said smiling.
“ACKKKKKK!!!!!!! What are you doing here, bastard grandson of Hippolyta!? No matter, you will die with these lambs!” she screamed letting go of the bus. Wonder Man shifted his legs and bore the full weight of the bus.
“Look! It’s Wonder Man!!” one of the children shouted. “He saved us!” another child said as the kids erupted into applause.
“No one dies today!” Stratohawk yelled as he flew into Fausta’s back, knocking her down the block.
“Oh, I think you may die today.” Tsukuri said as she appeared out of nowhere and slashed Stratohawk’s back with a gleaming blade.
Stratohawk was furious but said nothing as he engaged Tsukuri in battle. He met her blow for blow with his mace. “Impressive Hawk-Man, but I will deal the killing blow soon enough.”
Firebrand had her hands full with Star Sapphire. “I have read about you Firebrand. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to burned alive?”
“Not really dear. Have you?” Firebrand retorted as she sent a wall of flames at Star Sapphire. The manic woman was caught off guard and appeared confused at Firebrand’s powers.
Steve Trevor watched as Wonder Man sat the bus down and Fausta charged towards his son.
“Wonder Man! Look out!” Steve shouted.
Wonder Man spun around to see Fausta growling like an animal and running head on towards him. Wonder Man lept into the air and Fausta crashed into the side of a building.
“Ha, it was merely like the sting of a gnat! It will take more than a man-made barrier to stop me, Wonder Whelp!” Fausta screamed, her nose gushing blood. She pulled our her new whip and was ready to strike Wonder Man with it when suddenly she was interrupted.
“Perhaps, murderess. But, are you ready to face your own actions and accept your responsibility?” Palome said stepping forward. He released his Soulself and it encompassed Fausta.
“Palome, be careful! She has no remorse!” Wonder Man shouted as he landed next to his teammate.
Stratohawk had ensnared Tsukuri in an Nth metal net and had wrapped her ankles with a bola, rendering the venom mouthed woman helpless. He could feel the Nth metal in his costume healing his back and despite his wings being damaged, he lifted Tsukuri into the air and dropped her in a trashcan. “Don’t go anywhere. It’s trash day, and it appears they forgot you.” He smiled.
Tsukuri swore at the winged hero in her native tongue and struggled in vain with her bonds.
Firebrand was holding her own against Star Sapphire, however the she seemed to be getting the upper hand as she engaged the golden age legend in hand to hand combat.
“You think you’re prettier than me, don’t you! You and your red hair! I’ll burn it off your damned head!!!!“ Star Sapphire spat.
Firebrand noticed her fire powers were no longer affecting Star Sapphire as the magenta-clad villainess had surrounded herself with a force-field and she had no choice but to physically fight the woman. Just then Stratohawk shakily flew by and grabbed the villainess by the hair of the head.
“Let me down, you winged freak! You‘re like the rest of them--always coming to the less beautiful‘s defense! I‘ll rip you limb from limb!” she shrieked.
“I think you’re all talk and you need to get over yourself.“ Stratohawk groaned as he slammed his mace into the former pageant contestant’s head. “There, now sleep and dream of winning that elusive crown.“
Thanks for the assist!” Firebrand said, smiling up at Stratohawk.
“Anything for a lady!” he replied as the duo made their way over to Wonder Man and Palome’.
Fausta was struggling within the Soulself and cursing with every breath.
“She resists the Soulself! Impossible--No one should be able to do that!” Palome gasped, struggling with his concentration.
Wonder Man noticed it was getting dark all of a sudden. Palome cried out, “Dying!! Everything is dying—even the plants—can’t you hear---?”
Wonder Man, Firebrand, and Stratohawk all felt dread as they looked to the sky and saw a garish woman floating above them. She was almost totally nude except for a few flowing scarves, strategically placed jewels, and small pieces of gold. From his hiding place across the way, Steve Trevor could see the trees and foliage that lined the UN plaza wither and die.
“Fausta! You told me you didn’t need my help! Aren’t you glad I’m such a good friend!” the dark woman laughed.
Palome grabbed Firebrand’s arm. “S…She…is all things dark and evil….I can’t……”
Just then, Fausta screamed as the Soul-self shattered and disappeared. “Your trickery won’t work on me, gypsy filth! I know of your alien origins as well! For your mockery of genetics, you must be made an example!”
“Nefertiti! Kill them all!!! Show the world your desire for suffering!” Fausta shouted to the woman in the sky.
“Of course, sweet Nazi!” Nefertiti opened her mouth and released her flame breath, directing it Stratohawk. He screamed as it burned at his costume and he dropped to his knees.
Nefertiti then charged at Wonder Man and Firebrand before either of them could react. She slammed their heads together knocking them out.
“Oh God! No!” Steve shouted, running towards his son.
“Don’t bother me little man!” Nefertiti glared, causing Steve Trevor to feel fear to his very soul. He stopped in his tracks, terrified to move. He was relieved to see his son stir.
“What do we do with you gypsy boy?” Fausta said, grabbing Palome by the throat.
Palome was in shock due to the Soul self’s apparent destruction. Fausta lifted him into the air.” I’m going to enjoy this more than when I sent Hippolyta’s sidekick, Drusilla to Hell.”
“Wait! Fausta, you have had so many! There might be some use for this one after all.” Nefertiti smiled, her eyes glowing red.
“Ah! Of course--how could I be so selfish! I’ll let you have this one.” Fausta smiled as Star Sapphire and Tsukuri made their way to the women. “I see you freed yourselves! Good work, girls.”
“Courtesy of the Egyptian.” Tsukuri smirked.
“Now, don’t be afraid! Don’t you find me the most beautiful woman you have gazed upon?” Nefertiti hissed as she sat atop the prostate empath. Palome was trying to keep his concentration but all of the uncontrolled mayhem and horror emanating from the woman was too much for him.
“Get away from him…” Wonder Man said struggling to stand.
“You be quiet! Can’t you see I’m working?” Nefertiti snarled as she directed her fire breath at Steve Trevor. “There, go save the general! Hahahahaha!!!”
Wonder Man flew towards his father and lifted him out of harm’s way.
“Dad, lay low and don’t try to help—no matter what! Try to call Mom--” Wonder Man said, flying back to the fight.
Steve had worried about his wife and now he was having to worry about his son. “Be careful, kid.” He whispered. Steve knew his wife was unreachable as she had been summoned to Mount Olympus for a meeting with Zeus.
By now Firebrand was awake and Stratohawk, despite being injured were trying to distract Nefertiti and her allies away from Palome.
“I have had enough of this!” Star Sapphire said as she created a force field separating herself and her teammates along with Palome from Firebrand, Stratohawk, and Wonder Man.
The three heroes pounded on the magenta barrier to no avail. Tsukuri, Fausta, and Star Sapphire all laughed at the panicked heroes.
Nefertiti smiled at Star Sapphire. “Thank you. I was getting so sick of those fools interrupting us” She stuck her hands up Palome’s shirt and and dug her nails into his chest. She leaned in close to his face. “Awwww, is this your first time? I‘ll be gentle my little gypsy, I promise.”
Palome tried to turn his head. Nefertiti’s breath was like all of the most foul odors he had encountered rolled into one. She grinded her body on his and whispered, “Just a kiss? One little kiss, pleeeaassse?”
Palome struggled to summon the Soul-self to no avail. He tried to summon every ounce of strength he had left but he could barely move a muscle.
Nefertiti grabbed Palome’s head and kissed him deeply. He struggled as his mind imploded into a whirl of sinister images and dark colors. He could feel his skin ripping from the very bone.
Nefertiti’s teammates had never seen her do this before and were taken aback.
Even the usually glib Fausta was speechless.
Nefertiti continued kissing Palome as his body took on an ashen/skeletal appearance. The other girls smelled sulphur and rot.
Nefertiti raised her head and wiped her mouth. “Any of you girls got a smoke? The gypsy really wore me out!” she cackled. “Can we stop at a bar?”
The other 3 women just stared at her wide-eyed and finally Fausta broke out into applause. “Not even the death camps contained such horror!!!” She then went onto to exclaiming in German as Star Sapphire jumped up and down with glee. Tsukuri smiled silently.
“Nefertiti is one to watch.” The suspicious ninja assassin thought to herself.
Wonder Man, Firebrand, and Stratohawk were speechless—and helpless as they watched the scene from outside the barrier. They were even more shocked when the unrecognizable body of their teammate shakily stood up.
“What now, Nefertiti? How does he live?” Star Saphhire gasped.
“He doesn’t live. He is the first one for Anubis’s un-dead army! Star Sapphire, drop your barrier and let these people reunite with their teammate!” Nefertiti requested.
Star Sapphire did so as Tsukuri pressed a button on her glove and all 4 women vanished.
“What…what did they do to him?” Firebrand asked horrified.
“She turned him into some sort of mummy!” Stratohawk answered.
“But…Palome—that’s not him—not anymore. My ability to see the truth tells me that his soul is struggling within that shell. We can’t let him..” Wonder Man started as Stratohawk took off towards the lumbering figure.
Palome swung at Stratohawk. “Firebrand! You have to burn him--it’s the only we to…to free him and allow him to rest in peace!”
“Oh Good Lord! That poor boy!” she stammered.
“I know this will be difficult but you’ve got to do like Stratohawk said. Our friend is gone.” Wonder Man said, placing his hand on Firebrand’s shoulder.
Palome released a gutteral growl as his frame wobbled towards the woman.
“God forgive me…” Firebrand said as she began to glow and released a flame stronger than she ever had before. The flames covered Palome as he let out a scream like that of a wounded animal.
“Keep it up!” Wonder Man said as he and Stratohawk stepped back from the heat. He noticed that Firebrand had nearly turned into a being of pure flame.
The burning empath dropped to his knees and slowly turned to ash.
Firebrand dropped to the ground and Wonder Man raced to her side. Stratohawk joined him.
“She’ll be ok, she’s just spent.” Stratohawk said, stroking the woman’s hair.
“You got that right. I don’t think I could ever do that again…” she said passing out.
Steve Trevor had rejoined his son and Stratohawk.
“Scott, look around.” He implored.
Wonder Man and Stratohawk looked around at what used to be a teeming and full of life U.N. plaza. All of the foliage was dead and twisted. The once impressive buildings had turned to stone and crumbled.
Stratohawk looked at his teammate. He didn’t have to say a word as his expression said it all.
Steve Trevor put his arm around his son. Wonder Man looked at his father, searching his face for an answer…or some explanation. Wonder Man felt fear…a type of fear he had not experienced since he was a child and thunderstorms threatened Paradise Island.
***
The home of Sargon The Sorcerer…
Jemstone made her way up the walk-way and stopped in front of the door, ringing the doorbell gently.
A few seconds later, the door swung open, “Jerrica! Thank you so much for coming over!” greeted Sargona as she hugged her best friend. “Please come in. What’s in the bag?”
“Oh just something I picked up to wear for Scott tonight,” Jemstone smiled as she made her way into the lavish mansion. The two ladies sat down on a large, leather couch in the foyer.
“Sar, I’ve never seen you like this before. You seem so frazzled,” observed Jemstone. “What’s going on?”
“Well, as you may have heard, during the whole mess with Professor Ivo, I learned that Zatanna is my mother,” began Sargona. “For all of these years, I was under the impression that my mother was dead and come to find out, she’s alive and well and a liar!”
“Have you confronted her about this?” asked Jerrica, sympathetically.
“No – not yet,” answered the raven-haired beauty. “I’m still struggling with what I want to say. I mean, do I just walk up to her and go off on her or do I just ask her why she abandoned me all of those years ago? I just don’t know what to do.”
“What about your father? Have you asked him about this? Oh wait, I should keep it down, he’s probably in the other room isn’t he?” assumed Jemstone.
“No, he’s away at the magicians’ conference in Salem,” revealed Sargona. “I haven’t talked to him about this either. He and I have always been so close over the years and I’m just beside myself over the fact that he’s been lying to me too. He’s always looked out for my best interests even when he’s being completely annoying but he’s a good man. At least I thought so until now.”
“Well Sar, he may be just as much of a victim in all of this as you are,” pointed out the girlfriend of Wonder Man.
“What are you talking about???” Sargona asked, confused.
“Now, I’m not trying to bash anyone here but you remember those stories we heard about Zatanna performing those mind-wipes years ago? Perhaps she mindwiped your father into forgetting about his relationship with her….” explained the pop-star.
“OH MY GOD!” exclaimed Sargona. “I never thought of that…but you’re probably right. This is getting so crazy!”
“Well no matter how this all plays out, you still have me, Celeste, and Venus,” Jemstone said, putting her arm around Sargona, “We’ll always be here for you no matter what.”
Sargona hugged her dear friend and replied, “Thank you Jerrica. I can’t tell you how much your support means to me.”
“Hey, try to think of something positive,” suggested Jemstone. “Focus on that for now until you figure out what to do about your parents,” offered the former lead singer of the Holograms.
***
The Hall of Justice…
Black Orchid sat in front of the monitor, severely annoyed. She had relieved Wonder Girl from monitor-duty about 2 hours ago and was growing quite bored. “Here I am, stuck in front of this giant boob-tube,” complained the purple-clad heroine.
Suddenly, Nightvision teleported in and made his way towards the computer console. “Good evening, Venus.”
“Well it’s about time you show your face around here,” growled the former member of the Suicide Squad.
“Excuse me?” Nightvision replied in a deep tone.
“Don’t you ‘excuse me’ me! You’ve been keeping me locked up here in the Hall when there have been plenty of missions I could be going on,” spat the woman also known as Venus. “I probably could have taken out that giant Kryptonite meteor by myself.”
“Doubtful,”
“But did I even get a call?” asked Black Orchid angrily, as she punched the wall behind her, denting the steel surface. “NO! Then you go up against that Fantastic-thing and when you put together your strike-force, do you even bother to see what I’m doing? Nope! Even though I’m one of the few Titans who could have nearly matched his power. I’m getting sick of being passed on by for all of these newbies!”
“Venus…’ started the new-age Dark Knight, “You know why you haven’t been put on any recent missions. After you were declared innocent by the courts for your actions when you were under the Floronic Man’s control, there was a lot of public outcry. We need to give the general population time to come to terms with all of this.”
“So how long do I have to wait?” demanded Black Orchid. “Another six months? A year? How long is it going to be???”
“I’ll let you know,” Nightvision replied as he turned to exit the room.
“You’ll ‘let me know’?” repeated Black Orchid. “This is ridiculous! I got more respect when I was a stripper! I’m out of here!” she said, flying through the skylight.
Nightvision looked up and grumbled to himself, “Just great. Now what is she going to do?”