The Adventures of Superman: The Infinty Gauntlet

 The Adventures 

of Superman 

1

The morning had been like most all other mornings in the glorious city of Metropolis. Clark Kent had been sitting at his desk proof reading his article. 

The phone at Lois Lane's desk rang - Lois and Clark both sat at their adjacent desks right in front of Perry White's office, Clark's super hearing picked up the phone's shrill as it rang, Clark looked over at her, they'd been working at the Planet for about six months now, they'd gone on a few lunch and dinner dates too but for some reason Clark hasn't asked her out - yet!

"Would you like me to answer that Lois?" The words had barely left his mouth before she grabbed the phone and picked it up.

"Lois Lane..." Her eyes went wide, Clark could tell something was wrong. 

"I'll let him know as soon as he gets in." Clark's head snapped in her direction, he was instantly worried. Something's about to happen. He thought to himself...

"Thank you... bye." She was already dialing another number, not even giving Clark any clue what the story was. 

Clark leaned back in his chair and rubbed his chin thinking. 

He knew that something big and bad was probably up, and that meant, Superman would be needed.

"Perry White's office!" Perry was yelling his normal greeting, Clark stood up, pushed the chair in at his desk, and started walking towards his boss' office, Lois was still on the phone frantically taking down notes.

"Morning sir!" Clark looked at his boss, Perry was wearing the usual grey suit, brown bowler hat, white shirt and red tie - he was a large man, not fat just big. 

"Sit down Kent, I need you and Lane in on this one, it'll be a doozy."

Without a word Clark sat down in one of the two chairs placed just outside of Perry's office desk, he knew that he would just have to wait for whatever information was going to be coming, and with Perry's "It'll be a doozy" comment, Clark's suspicions were being confirmed.

"Lane, you just about done?" Perry's voice boomed through the still partially open door of his office.

Lois looked up... "Done." She hung up the phone and entered Perry's office closing the door behind her. Clark was watching her closely but she just sat down in the other chair, her eyes weren't giving anything away.

"Ok here's the lowdown you two. Seems as though a small city in Texas, somewhere in the middle of nowhere, has turned into a scene of carnage. From what they've been able to tell so far, all of the people in this town, or at least most all of them are dead and there's no signs of any survivors."

Clark and Lois looked towards each other - both were horrified, how could an entire town disappear? Clark felt a sense of dread and an odd familiar fear.

"Seems to have happened just this morning. An air force jet spotted the town just minutes before it happened, they saw men moving about on the streets, but it was what was seen coming out of the sky that caused the alarms to start ringing."

"What was seen coming out of the sky?" Clark's gut was clenching, he didn't know why but he was getting a terrible feeling.

"A large black triangular shaped craft, at least 500 feet long and 250 feet across, looked to be made out of some sort of black semi-organic material. It came out from high above the clouds and just floated over the town for a few seconds and then suddenly disappeared."

"Any explanation, have they ever seen anything like this before that you know of Mr. White?" Clark was starting to get a little fidgety in his chair.

"Hell no, neither the base nor the CIA have ever seen anything like this - that's why you two are being assigned, this could be an alien invasion for all we know - a big black triangle, what the hell?"

"Well, we just need to get there." Clark jumped up out of his seat ready to go but Lois had grabbed his arm and was looking at him with slight worry.

"Calm yourself, Kent, we can't just fly out of here, we need to figure out a plan." 

"She's right Kent." Both Clark and Lois looked at Perry, he'd been watching both of their interactions carefully.

"I know, and I know that I need to keep my emotions in check, it's just..." Clark's frustration got the better of him and he let out a big sigh - I was hoping to avoid the military was what he was thinking to himself.

"You just what Kent? You just need to act without making a plan? You just want to go in guns blazing? Or do you want to act like a superhero?" Perry's voice rang with the authority that he was famous for.

"Sorry sir, I'll act as a professional." Clark looked down at the ground; he was feeling like a scolded child. And it kind of hurt his pride, especially in front of Lois.

"That's more like it, you two get over to the base, talk to General Swanwick, he'll fill you in on all the info they have, and then you're free to head out to the town." Perry was pointing his fat stubby finger towards the door, a clear sign that the meeting was over.

"Yes Sir!" Both Clark and Lois practically jumped up and headed for the door. 

Once they reached the main office, Lois pulled Clark to a stop and took a closer look at him - she could tell that something was bothering him.

"What's wrong?" Lois asked. Clark looked down at her, he hated having to lie to his friends - especially to Lois. 

She knew that he was hiding something, and it bothered her. "Nothing, what makes you think something's wrong?" Clark tried to avoid looking into her penetrating eyes, but she was looking directly at him, waiting.

"I can tell, you've been twitchy all morning, and you were acting a little strangely when the story broke - I can read you like a book." Lois had placed a hand gently on his arm - it was a caring touch, not a demanding one.

Clark stopped, it was hard to resist Lois - he'd wanted to tell her all about Superman, but knew that he couldn't. 

Instead, he was going to have to lie again - the thought alone made him feel like crap. "I just really hate any situation dealing with the military." He looked into her eyes, praying that she believed him.

"Why's that?" She wasn't buying it. She knew what he wasn't saying. 

"I just don't get along very well with most military personnel." He tried to shrug and look away from her, wanting to avoid her gaze.

"Is there something you're not telling me?" She stepped closer, making it hard for him to look away from her, and made him look down at her.

"No." He tried to avoid looking directly into her eyes, but the eye contact was becoming unavoidable. 

She was staring right through him, into his soul, trying to get him to tell her the truth. He had no intention of letting her break him. 

"Clark, you can tell me, you know that, right? Whatever it is, you can tell me." She was leaning up towards him, forcing herself into his personal space.

"Its nothing, really it is." Clark was getting more and more nervous; he knew that he needed to tell her something, or she was going to keep questioning him. 

He desperately searched for something to say. Anything that will just get her off his back for the moment. 

"Nice try Kent, don't change the subject - you're hiding something." Her face was now only inches from his; their noses were nearly touching each other.

He couldn't look away now, she was getting much to close. He could feel his heart racing in his chest; he felt like a rabbit caught in a trap.

 "Please Lois... let's just focus on the case, please." Clark's plea was almost a whisper.

"No not yet, stop trying to avoid the issue, what are you hiding?" Her hands were on her hips, she was determined to get it out of him. "I am not leaving it alone."

Clark was completely flustered, he was running out of options, he was being backed into a corner. He looked around and saw that everyone in the newsroom was staring at them, and that Jimmy and his friends were watching them keenly.

Great. Everyone's watching this. Clark wanted to die right then and there, not only was he trying to avoid a question from Lois, but now the entire newsroom was taking notice. Double-great.

The it came to him. "Lois, can we take this somewhere else?" Clark's voice was still a whisper - he was desperate to get away from their current audience. 

A small smile appeared on her face, an almost predatory grin, she knew that she had him on the ropes. "Sure, somewhere more private." She grabbed ahold of his hand and led him to the stairwell.

Once they were in the stairwell, he relaxed a bit, there weren't any other people around, and the room was darker then the newsroom. "No more distractions, now talk." The same small smile was still on her lips.

He let out a sigh, there was no use in trying to avoid her questions any longer, he'd tried to change the subject, and he'd even tried to flee, but she was too good, she had a way of seeing though him like no one else. "Alright, what do you want me to say?" He asked.

"Don't take that tone with me, what are you hiding?" She wasn't going to give him an inch.

"I'm not hiding anything...exactly" Clark tried to avoid looking her in the eye.

"That wasn't much of a denial." She was still holding on to his arm, she could feel his muscles through his thin blue dress shirt, he was extremely fit, she knew that he had to work out, but for some reason Clark didn't seem like the type to be a gym rat.

"Did you not hear the assignment that, Mr. White assigned us to? Are you not worried about that? Not even a little? Dead people? Alien space craft? Military personnel?" Clark's frustration was mixed with nervousness. 

She was still holding on to his arm, feeling his arm flex under her grip. She knew that he was avoiding her questions, but he was also correct about the assignment. "We can worry about it, but I'm going to get answers from you first."

"There's no answers to get from me. There are however answers to be gotten in Camball, Texas." Kent said. His tone firm and unwavering. 

She wasn't sure where he was getting this newfound confidence, but she could see that he was very determined to stop answering her questions. 

"Fine, but this isn't over, you and I are going to talk later." She had a feeling that he wouldn't escape her for long.

Clark was grateful for the temporary reprieve; he felt like he could finally breath. 

"Thank you. Now, can we go?" He was ready to get out of there, away from the newsroom - he was more then a little embarrassed about their public argument.

2

Lois made the flight arrangements, while Clark lined up the hotel rooms. They were both completely absorbed in the tasks at hand. 

Lois was looking at the flight schedules while Clark was on the phone with the only hotel in town, he was trying to get them rooms, but the woman who answered the phone was making it difficult for him. 

Finally Lois broke the silence. "Did you get all the rooms set up?"

Clark was shaking his head as he held the phone up to his ear. "Not yet, the woman who answered keeps putting me on hold."

"Sounds like a stellar hotel." Lois couldn't understand why Clark was struggling with this task, it seemed so simple. Maybe it's not the hotel, but the woman he's talking to.

"She keeps putting me on hold..." Clark was starting to get frustrated, this was taking entirely to long, and he was starting to get the feeling that the woman just didn't want to help. 

Lois looked up from her computer, she had finished the flight arrangements and was bored now - but hearing Clark struggle was making her laugh on the inside.

"She's really starting to test my patience..." Clark could see Lois watching him; he shot her a pleading look.

Lois raised an eyebrow, a smirk forming on her face, obviously enjoying Clark's annoyance.

"Still on hold..." Clark's voice was strained, he was just about ready to pull the phone away and scream into it. 

Lois let out a small laugh, she had to fight hard to contain herself. Listening to this phone call was almost funnier then any comedy show she'd ever seen.

Lois suddenly stopped smiling, the reality of their trip hit her like a brick wall. There was a sinking feeling in her chest as she thought of the possible carnage waiting for them. 

She watched as Clark continued to argue with the woman on the other line, his frustration growing with each passing second.

The room fell into an uneasy silence, the air filled with a mix of anticipation and tension. 

Finally, Clark hung up the phone, his face showing both exhaustion and annoyance. 

"We're all set." he was frustrated and ready to stop dealing with incompetence.

"What? You actually got the rooms?" Lois was surprised, she didn't think that would actually happen, the way Clark was struggling made her think that he might actually throw the phone against the wall.

Clark looked at her, his eyes tired and weary. "Yes, I did." He managed to respond. "It was just a bit of a process, I had to deal with a rather - uncooperative person on the other end."

Lois couldn't help but let a smirk form on her face again. "Uncooperative, huh? Why do you think that was the case?" She couldn't resist taunting him.

Clark shot her a look, it was half annoyance half exhaustion. "Apparently the hotel is having a hard time figuring out their booking system," he said exasperated. 

"And apparently this hotel doesn't have an online booking system, so I have to call in and talk to incompetent workers."

"Our flight leaves in two hours." Lois said. "Everything is set." 

Clark was still slightly frustrated, but he shook it off. "Good. Let's get our stuff and head to the airport." 

He knew that the task ahead of them was much bigger than a phone call with a not so competent worker - but that didn't make it any less annoying.

They both stood up and made their way out of the newsroom, everyone was still watching them, and whispering to each other - Clark could feel the eyes on him and it made him a little self-conscious. 

Lois was too busy straightening out her outfit and ignoring the stares from the office staff.

Finally, they made it outside. It was a sunny day, and the walk to the car would have been nice if Clark wasn't still feeling the effects from the phone call. He was still silently stewing about it as he opened his passenger door for Lois.

Once they were both in the car, Clark let out a deep sigh. 

"I can't believe how frustrated I got with that woman on the phone, I swear she was doing everything she could to put off booking the rooms."

Lois couldn't help but laugh, "Well, she definitely sounded like she was enjoying making you squirm." 

Clark shot her another look, but there was a hint of a smile on his face this time.

"You're enjoying this way to much aren't you?" Clark jokingly asked.

Lois looked at him for a moment, a small smile on her face. She couldn't help but be amused at the way he was acting. "You do, do you? Well, I can't say I mind the sound of that. I could do with a little cape wearing, crime fighting, hero."

Lois raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Mighty Mouse, huh? I never knew you had a thing for animated rodents. And at night, you say? Maybe I should start calling you "Night Owl" instead of Superman."

Clark rolled his eyes playfully. "Night Owl? That's a bit on the nose, don't you think?" he responded. 

Lois shrugged, a playful glint in her eyes. "Well, you are the one who admitted to being a night-owl. And I've heard that owls are actually rather powerful birds- fast, stealthy, and intelligent."

Clark's smile grew wider. "Fair point, I suppose I can't argue with that logic. I'll take the title of Night Owl, as long as I get to save the day and impress you with my powers of stealth and intelligence."

They pulled into the large airport parking lot and found the closest parking place to the building as they could get. 

Clark grabbed his bag out of the back seat and slung the case over his shoulder, "You ready for this?" he asked. 

Lois shut the passenger door and started walking toward the front doors, "Ready as I'll ever be."

Clark chuckled and fell into step beside her, they pushed through the automatic doors and entered the bustling Metropolis International Airport.

 The airport was packed with people. Children ran around, couples and families stood in long lines, and a loud speaker constantly blared flight numbers and times. It was a chaotic yet familiar sight.

They made their way toward the Delta Airlines check-in counter, trying to maneuver through the crowd. Clark could feel a sense of unease building in his chest - he didn't like crowded places, or places where he might be easily recognized, being Superman had some major drawbacks.

Lois, on the other hand, seemed totally unbothered by the noise and chaos around them. She led the way toward the check-in counter, confidently walking and making small talk as they waited in line.

"You seem unfazed by the crowd." Clark said leaning in close so she would hear him. 

Lois shrugged, "Growing up in New York City tends to make you less affected by big crowds." 

Clark raised an eyebrow, "Ah, so you're used to this kind of madness?"

"Yep, I spent most of my childhood dodging people and getting lost in Times Square. It's like second nature to me now." Lois replied with a laugh. 

Clark chuckled, imagining a younger Lois making her way through the busy streets of New York.

He noticed that a few people around them were giving Lois looks, it was understandable given her stunning dark red hair and curvy figure. 

Clark felt a sense of protectiveness towards her, knowing that many men found her very attractive.

"Well it's a constant reminder to me that I'm not in Kansas anymore." Clark chuckled. 

Lois shot him a sidelong glance, "You really need to stop with the cornball jokes, Small Town." 

Clark feigned hurt, "What? I thought it was a good line!"

"Yeah, if you're trying to impress some farm girl from the middle of nowhere." Lois replied sarcastically. 

Clark pretended to be offended, "And what's wrong with farm girls from the middle of nowhere?"

Lois shrugged, "Nothing, if you enjoy sunsets and wide open spaces. But I'm from the big city, I like exciting urban areas and nightlife." 

Clark smirked, "Oh, so you're too fancy for cornfields and hay bales?"

Lois laughed, "You bet I am. I prefer skyscrapers and taxis instead of combines and tractors."

"Well, I'm sure you've never seen a barn raising or a pig roast." Clark quipped, a sly smile playing on his lips. 

Lois rolled her eyes, "Can't say I have, and I don't think I'm missing out on much."

"You don't know what you're missing," Clark replied, a hint of jest in his voice. 

Lois chuckled, "Yeah, I think I can live without the whole "old Macdonald had a farm" experience."

Clark feigned disappointment, "Oh, come now, you're telling me you've never seen a cow up close? Or a rooster crowing at dawn?"

"I've seen cows in books and roosters in cartoons." Lois retorted with a smirk. "I think I've gotten the gist of the rural experience."

Clark laughed, "Well, you're depriving yourself of the true country life. Fresh air, wide open spaces and not to mention, the best damn apple pie you've ever tasted."

The flight to Houston was boarding. Clark and Lois walked into the terminal with their carry on luggage. 

Lois rolled her eyes, "Yeah, I think I'll pass on that 'down-to-earth' experience. I prefer my life to be a bit more urban and slightly less 'Mayberry.'".

Clark chuckled, "Well, aren't we all a little bit 'Mayberry' at heart?"

"Speak for yourself, I'm all New York City, baby." Lois said as they stood in line to board the plane. 

Clark raised an eyebrow, "New York City, huh? So you've had your fair share of rat sightings and traffic jams then."

Lois nodded, "Yep, and I've seen more homeless people in a week than you've seen your whole life"

Clark winced, "Ouch, that was a low blow."

Lois laughed, "Hey, I'm just keeping it real. You may have your sunsets and hay bales, but I've got my city lights and subways."

Clark shrugged, with his signature boyish charm, "Well I will agree with you on one thing, New York certainly has more lights than Smallville."

Lois and Clark boarded the plane. On a straight flight to Houston where they'd rent a car to drive out of the city. 

Once they were seated and strapped in, Clark glanced over at Lois, who was already scrolling through the movies on her personal screen. 

He leaned in close to whisper to her, "Trying to find an action-packed thriller to pass the time?"

Lois rolled her eyes, "Are you kidding? No offense, but I don't think I could sit through another one of your 'corny country charm' movies."

Clark put a hand to his chest, pretending to be hurt, "Corny? Are you saying you don't appreciate a good western?"

Lois rolled her eyes, "Are you kidding? No offense, but I don't think I could sit through another one of your 'corny country charm' movies."

Clark put a hand to his chest, pretending to be hurt, "Corny? Are you saying you don't appreciate a good western?"

"I'm saying that I can only take so much 'yee-haw' before I start rolling my eyes." Lois shot back with a smirk. 

Clark pretended to be offended, "Oh, so you're not a fan of the 'high noon shootouts' and 'damsel in distress' cliches?"

Lois groaned, "Ugh, don't get me started on the damsels and the distress. Can't we just watch Die Hard instead?"

Clark chuckled, "Die Hard? Really? You're going to give me a hard time about Westerns, and then suggest Die Hard?"

Lois shrugged, "What can I say? I like action and explosions. Plus, Bruce Willis is way more fun to look at than some of those old cowboys."

Clark raised an eyebrow, "Oh really? You have a thing for Bruce Willis, do you?"

Lois smirked, "Come on, who doesn't? He's got that tough guy attitude and those intense blue eyes..."

Clark feigned a look of wounded pride, "Ah, so now it's the blue-eyed men you're into. I see how it is."

Lois chuckled and punched him playfully on the arm, "Don't get all emotional on me now, Smallville. You know I'm just teasing."

Clark rubbed the spot where she had punched him, pretending to be hurt, "Oh, so now I'm just 'Smallville' again, huh? And here I was starting to think you were going to call me something a bit more endearing."

Lois raised an eyebrow, "Endearing? Do you want me to call you 'sweetie' or 'darling' or something?"

Clark pretended to ponder the thought, "Hmm, 'darling' has a nice ring to it..."

Lois laughed, "Oh please, you're so not a 'darling' kind of guy. You're more like a 'tough-as-nails' country boy."

Clark grinned, "Aww, you've seen through my façade. I guess I can't fool you with my 'tough-as-nails' act."

The plane took off on the runway. Clear skies ahead. They relaxed and settled into the flight. As the plane leveled to cruising altitude, Clark settled into his seat, looking out the window at the world passing below them. 

Lois turned her attention back to her phone screen, "Hey Clark, did you bring any reading material for this flight? Maybe something with more substance than just a comic book?"

Clark rolled his eyes playfully, "Hey, don't knock the comic books. Some of them have some pretty deep storylines." 

Lois chuckled, "Sure, if you're into spandex and capes. I prefer something a bit more intellectually stimulating."

"Intellectually stimulating, huh? Like what? Romance novels?" Clark replied, still teasing.

3

The plane touched down at the George Bush International Airport, where the rental car was waiting for them. It was gassed up and ready to go. 

"Call Perry and tell him we've made it to Houston." Lois Lane suggested. 

They were on the highway to small town of Camball. The closer they got to the town, the further behind them the city life was. Clark was still trying to reach Mr. White. 

Lois drove with the weight of the assignment on her mind. There was no telling what might be awaiting them. She realized that this was more dangerous than she'd originally thought. She had her stun-gun in her purse. 

Clark tried again to call Mr. White but there was still no answer. He looked out the window at the passing landscape, the small town of Camball was definitely rural and different to the city. 

Lois seemed tense, and Clark noticed the stress lines around her eyes and the way she gripped the steering wheel tightly. He knew she was worried about what lay ahead.

"Hey," Clark spoke gently, trying to get her attention. She looked over at him, still gripping the wheel with a tight grip. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice low.

Lois sighed, "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a little on edge, that's all." She tried to sound cool and collected, but her heart was racing from nervous anticipation.

They drove up to the military police checking cars at a roadblock. "Whoa, hold up there. This is a restricted area." A Military Police Officer said. 

Clark and Lois had to keep it together - they were still undercover.

"We're reporters from Metropolis, we're here to investigate the area." Clark said. 

They both looked out of the car to the roadblock, there was military police everywhere. 

"You'll have to come with us, this is a crime scene." The MP said. "Get out of the car and follow me."

Lois and Clark got out of the car and followed the Military Police officer. The closer they got to the crime scene, the more they could tell that something huge had happened.

The Military Police officer stopped them a few hundred feet from the crime scene - "Hold on there. You'll have to put on these biohazard suits before you get any closer." The officer held out two blue hazmat suits.

Clark and Lois took the hazmat suits and put them on. They felt the plastic crinkle around them as they pulled the suits over their clothes - it took a few seconds to adjust to the feeling. 

"Follow me, and don't touch anything." the Military Police Officer said.

Clark looked around at the destruction and death. Someone had massacred these residents of Camball. It felt like they were somewhere they shouldn't be, but it was exactly where they needed to be. Right where Perry White wanted them. Ground Zero. 

As they walked through the carnage, Clark couldn't help but feel a sense of shock and sadness at the sight of so much death and destruction. 

The smell of smoke was still in the air, and the air was thick with the smoke. 

Lois had a pen and pad in hand, taking notes. 

She tried to take in everything but she was visibly affected by the scene.

Clark looked over at her and could see the horror on her face. "You okay?" He asked quietly.

Clark could tell that she was trying to hold it together, but she was clearly shaken. He put his hand on her shoulder, trying to offer some comfort.

"It's okay to feel affected, Lois. This is a lot to take in." He spoke quietly but firmly.

Lois took a deep breath and nodded, "I know, it's just... I've seen a lot of tragedies before, but this is something else." 

The air was still thick with smoke and the smell of death, the scene was like something out of a nightmare.

The Military Police officer interrupted them, "Alright, you've had enough of a look. We've got some preliminary findings, follow me."

Clark and Lois followed the Military Police officer to a makeshift command center. 

Inside, there was a small team of other officers and military personnel working. 

The room was filled with maps, diagrams, and evidence of the attack. 

The officer lead them to a small table where an old looking man waited.

The old man stood up, "You must be Lois and Clark. I'm Brigadier General Samuel Lane." General Lane didn't seem effected by the sight of the attack. He had an air of stoicism about him.

"Yes, General, we're from the Daily Planet." Lois said politely.

"Well, you've come at a bad time. We've got a situation here that needs to be taken care of." The General gestured around to all the military personnel.

"We've lost over 200 good people here. Men, women, children, they all died a horrible death." Lois's notes the information down.

Clark and Lois exchanged a look. "Wait, are you saying this was caused by something other than human beings?" Clark said, trying to keep his voice even.

"That's exactly what I'm saying. This attack had no rhyme or reason, no pattern. It's almost like it was a mindless killing machine." The General replied.

Lois was taking notes and trying to keep her cool... "So - you're saying that the town was wiped out by a mindless killing machine?" She asked.

"Yes. The evidence points to a weapon that was made to kill." The General said. 

Clark and Lois both felt a sense of shock at this revelation.

"A weapon?" Lois asked. "You mean a weapon that was made specifically to kill?"

Clark was running potential suspects through his mind. He tried to think of who was capable of such mass murder. A slaughter, an execution, a massacre. 

Lois looked troubled by the thought of a weapon that was built to commit mass murder. Clark was deep in thought, trying to think of who could be capable of such a thing. 

"Did you catch the weapon? Or any piece of it?" Lois asked the General.

"But we can't reveal too much just yet. We have to protect national security."

Lois's eyes narrow, her jaw tightening."National security? What does that have to do with this?"

The General sighs heavily, rubbing his temples."We're dealing with sensitive information here. We can't afford to compromise our investigation."

Lois leans forward, her voice growing more urgent."General, people are dying. We need answers now."

The General looks up at Lois, his expression grim.

"I understand your frustration, Ms. Lane. But we have to follow procedure here. We can't compromise our investigation."

Lois's face twists in frustration as she leans back in her chair. "Fine," she says finally.

"General, is it true that the fragments were found near a government facility?" she presses, her voice sharp.

The General hesitates, his eyes flickering to the photos on the wall before meeting hers."Yes, but that's precisely why we need to be cautious," he admits reluctantly.

Clark and Lois exchanged a knowing look - they had a strong feeling, that something big was going on, and the Military and Government were covering something up. Lois pushed the issue further. "What kind of facility was it?"

"Classified information." The General shot back. His expression was stern and closed off.

"You'll have to give me something here, General." Lois pushed, her determination was strong. "How are we supposed to report on this incident if you give us next to nothing?"

Clark felt the call of duty... "General, I need to go help those men." 

Lois wondered what Clark intended to do. He was just a journalist and reporter of the news. "What? What are you going to do?" 

Clark glanced at her as a gleam of determination crossed his eyes. "There's something I need to do." 

Lois's eyes widen as she had a feeling she knew exactly what he meant. "You're going to go into that building?"

"Yes. Those men are in trouble. I can't just stand here while they're in danger." Clark said. 

Lois knew that he was going to put himself in harms way. "But you could get hurt, or even killed." She protested.

"I'll be fine. I can take care of myself." He replied, and she knew that he was confident in his abilities. 

"You're not invincible." She said, desperation in her voice.

"We cannot allow a civilian to do anything like that." General Lane said. 

"With all due respect, General, those men are in danger. They need help now. I can go in and get them." 

The sounds of men screaming in pain could be heard through the radio.

The General was hesitant. "This is a dangerous situation, and you are not trained to handle it."

Clark was already moving towards the door. "I know I'm just a civilian, but I think I can help."

The General tried to stop him. "I don't think you understand the risk..." 

Clark was already out of the doors and running across the lawn. Where he had left Clark Kent behind. The help that was on it's way was not some common civilian, but Superman. The man of steel. 

"What's he doing?!?" Lois yelled as she watched him make a beeline for the demolished building.

Lois ran out after Clark, she needed to get to him before he got into the demolition sight. "Clark!" she yelled out.

"Lois, what are you doing? You can't go in there." The General yelled after her.

The soldiers had no idea what to make of Superman, but they'd seen him save a falling child at Niagara Falls, save a plane from a certain crash, and many other incredible things that saved lives. He was a man of another planet, but understood humans. Cared about the human race. 

Clark entered into the unstable building. "Hello?! Is anybody in here?!" He yelled out, the building was crumbling from the inside out.

"Please, someone answer me!" He yelled out again, his sensitive ears could make out someone's faint cries through the creaks of the dying building.

He used his x-ray vision to try and find the sound, finally he spotted a man trapped under a fallen beam. He moved quickly and managed to carefully lift the large beam off the man.

"Are you okay?" Clark asked as he helped the man up to his feet. The man was banged up but could walk.

"It's Superman." The first soldier shouts. 

The other soldiers look up and notice the familiar figure. "Holy shit! It IS Superman!" One of them yelled out.

A cheer goes up through the remaining troops, who watch him help a trapped man out of a building. This was something they never expected to see.

Superman took another man out of the building carefully. The soldiers yelled praises and comments toward him but it was hard to make out because Superman was focused on rescuing people.

A small group of men had been cornered by a section of collapsed building that blocked the back room exits. Clark lifted a huge crumbled wall and managed to drag a couple of the men out from under the debris.

The men were dazed and cut up a bit, but they were alive and well. They looked up at Superman with absolute wonder and respect.

"How did you do that, man?" Another soldier asked. "You're not a normal man." 

Clark smirked at the comment, "Yeah, I guess you can say I'm not quite like everyone else." 

The soldiers continue to watch in awe as Superman continues to rescue more and more men.

A young solder looked on in wonder. "Is he for real?" he mumbled to himself. The man had just been saved by the one and only Superman, it didn't feel real.

When General Swanwick and General Lane arrived with Lois the trapped men had been removed from the collapsed building. There was no sign of Superman or Clark. The men were in good shape with only minor injuries. 

"What happened here? Where did Superman disappear to?" General Lane asked, looking around the site perplexed.

"Who cares, he saved those men." General Swanwick replied as he looked around at the crumbled building remnants.

General Lane was still looking around, trying to find Superman. "Did anyone seen which way he went?"

"No Sir, he just disappeared back into the air." A solder responded. The General could feel an uneasiness creeping up on him.

General Swanwick looked concerned at his friend. "John you look a little pale, what's going on?"

"I don't have a good feeling about this." General Lane said in response.

"What do you mean? The men are safe, Superman is gone." General Swanwick said, he didn't understand the General's reasoning.

"Yes, but where did he go?" Lane asked in a hushed tone. "The man just vanished."

Lois looked at her phone as a call came in from Clark. She answered the phone call. "I think I went to the wrong building." His voice full of embarrassment. 

"What do you mean the wrong building? Where are you?" Lois asked, a sense of worry in her voice.

"I'm down by the hardware store. I thought it was the collapsed building that was being discussed." 

"Are you kidding me?!" General Lane yelled into the radio. "You just went to the wrong site?"

"My apologies, General." Clark said with humility. 

"Apologies? Apologies?!" The general yelled "You could have caused more trouble. We had everything under control until you came along."

4

There was definitely some things going on that didn't make sense. Clark intended on finding out exactly what that was. The night was falling on the ghost town. 

Lois hung up the radio and shook her head, "Can't believe you went to the wrong building. General Lane is fuming, you really made a big mistake there."

Clark knew he messed up, and he was embarrassed. "Yeah, it was my bad. I heard about the collapsed building and just assumed it was that one. I didn't even think to check with the General about the location."

"You didn't think?" Lois said sarcastically but her words were true. "You could have gotten hurt, Clark. You're not invincible."

"I know, I know. I messed up." He said, rubbing the back of his neck. "It was a bone headed move, I admit that. But at least I got those men out of the building."

"Yeah, I guess you did." Lois said. "But you've got to be more careful with things like this. You could've got hurt or worse. What would I have done then? You've taken too big of a risk."

"I know, and I'm sorry. I should've been more careful." Clark said. "But I thought I was helping. I didn't think it would end up like this."

"You need to think about what you're doing before you do it. You can't just charge into a dangerous situation without thinking it through." Lois was still frustrated at Clark's lack of caution.

"I get it, I get it. But sometimes I just see someone in danger and I have to go help." Clark said, a hint of defensiveness in his voice.

"I know you have a good heart and you want to help people, but you have to think about your own safety as well." Lois said, her tone was soft and she tried to hide the worry in her voice. "What would happen if you do something crazy and you get hurt? Or worse?"

Clark sighed, he knew Lois was right. "I know. I know I need to be more careful. It's just sometimes I can't help myself. I see someone in trouble and I just have to go help."

"That's admirable, Clark, but you have to think about the bigger picture. You can't just rush into things without thinking." Lois said, her tone was becoming more firm.

Clark looked down at the ground, feeling a little sheepish. "I know, you're right. I just...I get caught up in the moment, you know?"

"I know you do." Lois said, her voice softened a bit. "But you can't keep putting yourself in danger like this. You have to think about the consequences of your actions."

Clark nodded, looking up at her with a sense of regret. "I know, I know. I'll try to be more careful, I promise."

Lois looked into his eyes and could see the humility in them. "You better keep that promise, Kent." She said with a slight smile.

Clark returned the smile, thankful that she wasn't too angry. "I will. I promise. No more running into danger without thinking."

"Good." Lois said, her tone lightening a bit. "Because I don't want to have to be the one to pick you up out of trouble."

Clark chuckled lightly, feeling a sense of gratitude. "I appreciate your worry, Ms. Lane. I'll try to be more careful from now on, I promise."

Lois smiled at Clark, feeling a sense of relief. "Good. Then we're on the same page. No more reckless rescuing, got it?"

Clark nodded in agreement. "Understood. No more reckless rescuing."

"Good." Lois said, her tone lighthearted. "I can't lose my reliable partner in crime."

Clark chuckled, his eyes shone with affection. "I'll try my best, Lois. No more reckless rescuing, I promise."

"I'll hold you to that, Kent." Lois said, her tone was serious but her eyes had a hint of affection. Clark smiled at her. "I wouldn't expect anything less, Ms. Lane."

The night was still young and the sky was getting darker. The two of them sat in quiet silence together for a moment, the comfortable kind of silence that only those who know each other well can have.

Lois broke the silence, her expression more serious now. "You really scared me today, you know that?"

Clark nodded, looking up at her with a sense of regret. "I know, I know. I'll try to be more careful, I promise."

Lois looked into his eyes and could see the humility in them. "You better keep that promise, Kent." She said with a slight smile.

Clark returned the smile, thankful that she wasn't too angry. "I will. I promise. No more running into danger without thinking."

"Good." Lois said, her tone lightening a bit. "Because I don't want to have to be the one to pick you up out of trouble."

Clark's face showed regret. "I know, and I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking, I just saw the building and went straight in. I didn't think to check with the General first."

"It's okay, I know you were just trying to help." Lois said softly, the worry clearly in her voice. "But you have to be more careful, this isn't like one of your daydreams where you fly in and save the day with no consequences."

They believed the whole bit about him going to the wrong building, and they didn't seem know he was Superman. That was exactly how it had to be. At least for the moment. 

"I know, it's just... I can't help myself sometimes, you know?" Clark responded, his voice filled with sincerity. "I see someone in need and I just have to help. It's like an ingrained instinct."

Clark looked down, knowing she was right. "I know, I know. I just... I get caught up in the moment, and I don't think about the risks. I just want to help."

Lois placed a hand on his shoulder. "I know you do, and that's admirable. But you have to start thinking about your own safety, too. You're not invincible, Clark. There are things that can hurt you."

She had no idea, and he liked that quite a bit. He'd thought that she might very well suspect that he had something to do with Superman. 

"I'm so grateful for you, Lois." Clark grabbed her hips. "Just in case you didn't know that." 

Lois felt a familiar thrill race through her as he grabbed her hips, the touch was gentle, yet intimate. 

She couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort in his presence, even as she tried to stay focused on the matter at hand.

"You're just saying that to make me feel better." Lois said with a small smile, teasing him.

"I'm being completely serious." Clark's eyes met hers with an intensity that surprised her for a moment. 

"I'm really grateful to have you in my life. You're the one person who always makes me feel grounded."

The words hit Lois like a ton of bricks. Hearing Clark praise her and tell her how much she meant to him made her heart race. She couldn't help but feel a wave of affection towards him.

"Clark, I..." Lois couldn't find the right words to respond, her emotions felt too complex to articulate.

"You don't have to say anything, Lois." Clark's voice was soft but full of sincerity. "I just want you to know how much you mean to me. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Lois took a deep breath, feeling overwhelmed by his words. She could feel the intensity of his emotions radiating towards her. The moment felt heavy with unspoken words and unsaid desires.

Clark's gaze held onto hers, refusing to let go. He could practically hear her heart pounding in her chest, as if it was trying to beat out the words that neither of them had the courage to say.

He took a step closer, decreasing the distance between them. He could feel her breath, hot and soft, brushing against his skin. He wanted to pull her even closer, to drown in the closeness and comfort that only she could provide.

"How about I take you out somewhere nice tonight." Clark suggested to Lois.

Lois let out a little laugh, "Trying to wine and dine me now, are we, Kent?" She teased, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

He stepped closer to her and with a new found confidence, he answered the question. 

"Yes...I'm trying to find the right spot." He said. "Maybe a little cocktail at the bar across the street." 

This didn't sound like Clark at all. Nothing like him. 

Lois couldn't help but be surprised by his sudden confidence, but she found herself inexplicably drawn to it. 

"Cocktails, huh?" She replied, a small smirk crossing her face. "I don't think I've seen this side of you before, Clark."

He leaned in a little closer, the closeness was electric. 

"I'm full of surprises, Lois." He said, his voice low and teasing.

There was a playfulness in his tone that she had never heard before. She couldn't deny the feeling of excitement it provoked deep down inside her. 

"Is that so?" She replied, her eyes not leaving his.

He gulped, feeling the heat race through his body as her touch ignited a fire within him.

She smiled, sensing his reaction to her. Her touch grew more intentional as she explored the planes of his torso. Her fingers traced a path from his chest, along his stomach, and lower still. His breath hitched as her hand brushed over the button of his jeans.

The air between them crackled with an intensity that Lois couldn't ignore. The electricity was palpable. 

She looked up at him, her hand still resting on the button. "You seem a bit flustered, Smallville." 

He swallowed hard under her gaze. "I'm just a little caught off guard, that's all."

Lois's hand still lingered on the button of his jeans, her eyes taking in every detail of his reaction. 

"You don't seem like the kind of guy who gets easily flustered. Or is there something I don't know about you, farm boy?" She teased.

He let out a soft breath, trying to maintain composure under her touch. "Maybe there are some things about me that you're not aware of." 

Her hand slid lower, tracing the seam of his jeans, causing him to shiver involuntarily. Ordinarily she'd never press him in such a way, but this time she had a burning hunger within. She needed the release of the intimate endeavor. 

He tried to focus on his words, but the heat spreading from her touch was making it difficult. He took a deep breath, willing himself to remain in control. 

"There might be a few things I haven't shared with anyone, Lois." 

She smiled, her hand still making small circles on the waistband of his jeans. She was enjoying every moment of this, the power she had over him in this moment was intoxicating.

He struggled to keep his composure as her touch continued to drive him wild. "You're making it hard to think straight, you know that?"

She chuckled, her voice low and full of promise. "That's the idea, farm boy." 

Her hand finally slipped under the waistband of his jeans. He swallowed hard, his body tense as anticipation coiled deep inside him. 

The touch of her fingers was intoxicating, and he found himself wanting more. He struggled to maintain his composure, but the need in his gaze betrayed the storm of emotions raging within him.

She traced a line along the top of his waistband, her fingers lingering just above the edge of his jeans. Her touch was light, teasing, and it sent his senses reeling. 

He could feel the heat radiating from her body as she leaned in close, her lips tantalizingly close to his ear.

"Clark, are we headed towards uncharted territory or does it just feel like that?" Lois asked seductively. 

His heart pounded in his chest as he tried to find his voice. The tension was thick between them, and he could barely think straight. 

He met her gaze, his eyes smoky with desire.

He swallowed hard, unable to look away from her gaze.

"It feels like uncharted territory, Lois." His voice was low and rough.

He was torn between wanting to keep control and giving in to the desire she was stirring in him. 

But as her hand teased the edge of his waistband, all thoughts of control seemed to vanish. He wanted, needed more.

"The goddamn land is possessed by the hero, the cowardly, and the undead...you are absolutely filthy...you're all the children of Satan." The drunk homeless man shouted from the corner. 

Clark glanced over at the drunk homeless man, startled by the unexpected interruption. He tried to focus on the man, but Lois's touch was too distracting, and his mind was fully occupied with the fire she'd lit within him. 

"Should I do something?" he asked, his voice hoarse.

Lois shook her head, her fingers still tracing patterns on his skin. She knew he was struggling to maintain his composure under her touch. 

"No, just ignore him. He's harmless." She said, her voice soft.

"The bunch of you dumb ass people think they're going to save your no account, lazy, low value losers...but, they couldn't even if they wanted to you damn fools. The end is coming soon. The new way in the land of Darkseid." He staggered as he shouts into the night. 

Clark tried to focus on the homeless man's words, but the fire within him was growing stronger, and it was becoming harder to ignore. 

He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself, but all he could think about was Lois's touch. 

"Should I go check on him?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

"No, he's harmless." She reassured him, her hand still tracing a path along his waistband. "He's just rambling." 

Her touch was driving him crazy, and he had to fight to keep from reacting. He took another deep breath, trying to ground himself in the present moment.

The homeless man continued to shout, growing louder and more aggressive. Clark tried to ignore him and focus on the woman before him. Her touch was like a jolt to his system. It felt like she was making the fire within him grow even wilder.

"Damn it, Lois, I can hardly think straight with you doing that." Clark said, his voice thick with desire.

She smiled, her touch continuing to tease him. "You want me to stop?" 

He groaned, both at the thought of her stopping and at the way her touch was making him feel.

"I guess that depends on how far this was going in the end." Clark kissed her neck. 

She gasped softly as his lips found her neck, her touch faltering for just a moment. 

"You're making this difficult." She said, her voice huskier than usual.

His kisses were sending shivers down her spine, and she knew she was in trouble.

"We've been fighting it for too long, haven’t we, Lois?"

She nodded, her breath catching in her throat. 

"Yes, way too long." Her hands moved to unfasten the button on his jeans.

His breath hitched as her fingers worked the button, his hips instinctively arching towards her touch. 

"God, Lois, what are we doing here?" His voice was hoarse with desire.

"I think we're finally giving in, Clark." Her voice was sultry, her hands slowly pulling down his zipper. 

His breathing was jagged, his control fading. 

"And what if someone sees?" He asked, his voice strained.

"Would that stop us?" She asked, tugging at the waistband, trying to free him from his jeans. 

He shook his head, lost in the moment. 

"No, nothing could stop me now."

Suddenly Clark started to feel as if something was wrong, and his phone rang from his pocket.

Clark reached into his pocket, trying to ignore the feel of Lois's hands on him, and answered.

"Hello?" His voice was rough and breathless.  

"Kent...it's Luthor here." Lex said. "Are you trying to find the answers in a small Texas town?" 

"I'm just investigating a collapsed building." Clark said, Lois still had her hands roaming around his waist, driving him insane.

"You're about to discover that things are not as they appear to be. When you figure out what I'm saying here, give me a call." Lex said, and then he hung up the phone. 

Clark gritted his teeth, his mind racing. 

"Damnit, I can't think straight right now."

 Frustration seeping into his voice. 

"What is it? What's wrong?" Lois asked, sensing his agitation, and stopped her ministrations, but didn't remove her hands.

"It was Lex Luthor." 

Clark said, trying to focus on anything other than the way her hands were making his body feel. Her touch was like magic. She was absolutely amazing. 

"Lex Luthor? What did he want?" She asked, her hands running up his stomach, towards his chest.

Clark didn't answer her question, but started making love to her right there. If this was the next step, he was definitely ready to make his next move.

Lois gasped as his mouth found hers, his kisses, deep and passionate, setting her ablaze. 

Her hands moved to his hair, her fingers gripping the soft strands as he took control.

5

The Hunt for the killer was on. There were three teams that were going to comb the town for those responsible of the massacre of the towns people. Squad - Alfa

Squad - Bravo

Squad- Charlie 

They moved in and out of the buildings, homes, hospitals, and hotels. 

They'd kept the details of the operation secret. Not wanting the crew from the Daily Planet to get in the way. 

Searching for anything and any sign of life. This was definitely a job that they hadn't been trained for. Squad-C were the first ones to face Lobo. 

"Do I need to wipe you soldiers out....or is the the area cleared?" Lobo laughed. 

Squads - A and - B looked in horror at the muscular alien, holding a gun in one hand and his signature hook in the other hand. 

The two men quickly aimed their assault rifles at the massive alien. "Don't move a muscle! Stay where you are." 

Lobo was laughing as he turned around. "What you gonna do? Shoot me with those little guns?"

Squads - A and - B began firing at the large man. Lobo was shocked at how they stood there, with their guns blazing at him. "Really? You're actually shooting at me?!" Lobo's face looked angry.

Squads A and B continued firing their guns at Lobo. With the bullets making contact with Lobo's body and flesh, causing loud thumping sounds with every impact. 

"You think I'm scared of you guys?! You think your little guns are going to take me out?!" 

Lobo dropped his hook and gun that was in his left and right hand. And began stomping towards squad-A. 

Then squad-A did it again... they began firing their guns that just sounded like little loud pops on Lobo. Lobo started laughing really loud. "Oh..OH..OH YEAH, YOU'RE GONNA KILL ME..."

"Keep them coming!" Lobo ran through the bullets and punched one of the squad in the face, knocking the man out cold.

Squad-A backed up and was now in a panic, "He's not going down!"

Squads A and B were now scared and began running away from Lobo. Lobo started laughing again. 

"That's right you chickens, don't want to play anymore, do you?" Lobo was now alone in the middle of the street.

"Well...luckily enough for you, Lobo...you still have a challenge on your hands, Bub." The voice deep and confident. 

Lobo heard the sound of the deep voice. He stopped in his tracks and turned around. 

"Who the hell is that?! Who said that to me..?" Lobo was trying to find out the source of the deep voice. "Where are you, coward!?."

The deep voice spoke again, "Oh you want me to show myself, eh?"

"Yes, I do!" Lobo replied, feeling pissed off. "Stop hiding yourself. Face me like a man."

Lobo caught off guard, tries to block Wolverines claws.

"What the...where the hell did you come from!!" Lobo recovered quickly. 

"Doesn't matter where I came from, I'm here and that's all you need to worry about." Wolverine replied. 

Lobo was still trying to stop Wolverines claws from getting him. "You have no idea who you're messing with, bub!"

"Oh I know exactly what I'm dealing with, Lobo. I know all about you." 

Wolverine said with a dangerous low tone in his voice. 

Lobo was still managing to block wolverines sharp adamantium claws. "You talk too much."

"Well, it is said that those that talk too much, typically know little to nothing" Wolverine replied as his sharp claws continued to be blocked by Lobo.

Lobo was growing even more frustrated, "Is that right!?"

Doomsday was walking with a huge staff with the Doomsday skull on top of it, he was being followed by the Dark Army and Nekron. Nekron had an aura of darkness that was around his entire body, he was keeping Doomsday close by his side.

Nekron turns to Doomsday, "The army has successfully killed the towns people...this planet is weak, we can conquer this planet without a problem."

Clark was in his room at the hotel room, he heard the radio in Lex's voice. "Who could you possibly send that could handle the situation?"

"Someone with the reputation to match any alien invasion threat. Someone who does what needs to be done without any thought." Lex replied.

"And who would that be?" Clark said, still listening to the radio. 

"That would be me." A deep voice said.

Clark was completely stunned to hear another voice speaking back at him. "Lex...who is that!?"

His tone held an edge of anticipation as he awaited Lex's response. Lex, who was always one for the theatrics, paused for a moment before speaking.

"Wait...The Punisher is going to come to help me?" Clark was completely stunned once again to hear this.

"If you want me to send him. We've got this other assassin here, hey...what was your name, son?" Lex Luthor asked the guy. 

"Deadpool, for the tenth time. Do you use drugs, Mr. Luthor?" 

"The other guy goes by Deadpool." Lex Luthor explains. 

"Deadpool...Deadpool...I've heard that name before." Clark said as he was thinking deeply.

"Personally, Clark...something's wrong with the guy, but not when it comes to getting his job done. Very efficient mercenary, but with a mouth." Lex makes his own thoughts on it clear.

"Jason...Todd...?" Clark's mind was racing with even more questions.

"He is a bit of a...wildcard." Clark replied.

"You know him? Does he work Cobblepot or Batman? Coming from Gotham it's one or the other. Frank Killed the Joker four years ago. It's not his doings."

"Batman...." Clark said, his voice trailed off."Batman...." Clark said, his voice trailed off.

"What....what about him?" Frank asked, still listening through the radio.

"Nothing." Clark replied back. "Just..thinking of something."

"Oh really now?" Frank said while still listening to the radio.

"It's nothing, really." Clark replied.

"If you say so." Frank said sarcastically.

"A hunch that I can't shake." Clark said without giving anything away.

"A hunch that I can't shake." Clark said without giving anything away.

Lois listened on as Clark continued to talk to Lex Luthor and Frank Castle. 

She was trying to figure out what Clark was talking about, and starting to have a bad feeling about something.

"Lex...can I ask you a question?" Clark asked through the radio.

"Go ahead, Clark." Lex replied back.

"Why...are you helping me?" Clark asked.

"Well you know, there's something in it for everyone involved, otherwise there'd be no reason to be concerned, right?" Lex Luthor explains. "Sometimes we find ourselves in a battle that none of us could have expected to find ourselves in, see?"

"Alright...that makes sense." Clark said.

"Are you good, Clark?" Lex asked. "Do you trust me?" 

The Punisher chuckled. "Come on now, Lexxy-Boy." 

Clark grinned on the other end. "Yes...I trust you, Lex." Clark said.

"Now...can you provide Superman, Kent?" Lex asked. 

He knew Clark was the only person that Superman had been so available to. Kent had always gotten the biggest Superman stories. 

"Of course, Lex." Clark replied. "I will do everything I can to help."

"Help...Luthor...huh?" Lois was looking utterly amazed by the mention of help and Luthor." 

She had never expected to hear the two of them speaking about help and Clark helping Lex.

Lois' mind was racing with so many questions as she listened to the conversation going on.

She noticed the blacked out Suburban pull up out of the corner of her eye. She took a small peek out the window.

She squinted a little more, and her eyes widened, she was shocked to see who it was. They had clearly attended his funeral. 

It was Bruce Wayne, sitting in the blacked out Suburban's passenger side seat. "Clark, we've got company." Lois interrupted. 

"Who is it?" Clark asked, trying to hear through the radio.

"Bruce Wayne..." Lois said nervously.

"Bruce Wayne?" Clark said, clearly hearing her tone over the radio. 

"There's no way that it's him." Clark dismissed her claim. Continued to listen to Castle and Luthor. 

"You sure about that, Clark? I'm looking at him right now." Lois said nervously.

"I think you're imagining things." Clark replied, not believing her. 

Moments later Bruce entered the room with a master room key. When Clark got a look at him, he became disconnected from his previous conversation, and he left them talking. 

"Well...what's going on with this?" Clark half jokingly asked, but he was serious about the question too. Not as a journalist or even just a great friend. 

Lois looked at him and her expression remained the same look of shock and surprise. "I told you, Clark." Her words slow and deliberate. 

"Alright, I believe you now." Clark said as he looked at Bruce sitting next to Lois.

"Has Damian provided you with a effective Batman, aye?" Bruce asked.

"No, not yet." Clark replied.

"Well, he's not as good as me." Bruce said jokingly, trying to ease the tension.

"Do you know what you're up against here?" Bruce Wayne asked. 

"No...I  mean I don't know what it is exactly, but I think I might have a certain person that might be involved with it all. Why? Do you have anything?" Clark was nervously moving as he rambled on. 

"I figured you would trust me. It's not going to sound very believable, and you are getting it from an allegedly dead man. So I wanted to see where we stood on that first." Bruce spoke low, while watching Clark's facial expressions. 

"You know me better than that, Bruce. I'm optimistic about most all situations, and I am trying to stay that way with this, but too many lives here have been lost." Clark explained. "I had wondered about that funeral and all. The closed casket left me that possibility out there, and I know you." 

Bruce couldn't help but smile at Clark's response. "I had a feeling you would say that." Bruce said with a nod of agreement.

"So you know what is going on here, Bruce?" Lois asked. 

He nods immediately to the question. "It's 'The New God of Apocalypse'...have you ever heard of Darkseid?" Bruce inquired. 

Lois' eyes slightly widened when she heard what Bruce was saying. "You're joking..." she said to him.

"I wish so badly that I was." Bruce said. "He had the power to devour this planet, but he doesn't want to make it quick. He wants to slowly move towards his goal. Enjoying each step of the process." 

"What is he trying to do to this place?" Clark interjected.

"He's trying to control it's people, Clark." Bruce said, explaining.

"How does he plan on doing that?" Clark asked.

"First by wiping out massive amounts of the population and to eliminate the resistance against his plan." Bruce answered. "He is working through Victor von Doom, Thanos, and The Sinister Minister of the Trinity." 

"And what is he trying to obtain?" Clark asked.

"His end game is a prison planet that he's taken all the valuable resources from. Earth is perfect for holding various species of beings." Bruce spoke with a mix of emotions. 

"He's trying to make the Earth into a prison planet?" Clark said in disbelief.

"That's exactly what he's trying to do!" Bruce emphasized.

"Well...I must admit that I thought it was someone else, but that's precisely why I never mentioned the name without a speck of proof." Clark said, leaning on the table top.

"Who was your suspect?" Bruce asked.

"The Kryptonian General...The Trinity of Krypton." Clark answered. 

"I hadn't really, there was nothing more than ability to do the things that the killer was doing, and motive knowing they want to create another Krypton for those who escaped their demise on the destroyed home planet. A hatred for Superman, but honestly not much more." Clark explained his thoughts on Zod's involvement. 

Bruce's expression tightened at Clark's mention of Zod's involvement. He hadn't thought of that particular angle either but it was a good possibility. 

"Zod is a tricky one." Bruce said with a nod. "He is intelligent, strong, and very capable of these types of attacks. But even still, he is a pawn in this whole scheme. He is under the control of Darkseid."

Clark nods as he takes in this information. "So, Darkseid is the mastermind behind this whole thing. He is the one pulling all the strings?"

"I think so, but they've got the Son of Satan, Damien Shango. Known as the Sinister Minister. He's got limitless powers and abilities. If he's following Darkseid's orders, then it's by his own choosing." Bruce said.  

"This is getting increasingly more dangerous." Clark said as he pondered his next course of action.

Bruce was still contemplating their next moves, when Clark spoke up. "I have an idea. A crazy, dangerous idea."

Bruce turned his attention to Clark, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "What kind of idea are we talking about here, Clark?" he asked, leaning forward slightly in his chair.

There was a knock on the door, and it momentarily broke up the strategical planning the two men were wrapped up in. 

Clark opened the door to Nick Fury and Amanda Waller standing there. 

Clark's eyes shifted from Bruce to Nick Fury, and he braced for whatever was about to come.

Fury cleared his throat, casting a glance at Bruce. It was clear that this was an unexpected turn of events. 

"We're here to discuss a possible...partnership." Fury began, his tone measured.

There was a moment of silence as Fury studied them both. It was apparent that he was weighing his options.

Well I'm just trying to report the events with my partner Lois. She waives, but I'm listening to you." Clark said. 

Finally, he spoke, a sly grin on his face. "Alright, a partnership it is. But before we get into the details, there's one thing I need to know."

Clark's eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of curiosity mixed with caution. "Go on." he said, gesturing for Fury to continue.

Fury's smile grew wider as he leaned back in his seat, eyeing them carefully. "Are you ready for what I'm about to ask?" he inquired.

Fury let out a soft chuckle at Clark's answer, but there was an underlying seriousness in his eyes.

 Fury's eyes never left Clark's as he asked his sensitive question. 

"I need to know if you two have any prior... alliances or allegiances. Anything of a sensitive nature. Any dark secrets hidden beneath the surface."

"That's a nice cover, Clark. But I'm not asking about your daily newspaper job." he said, a hint of knowing in his voice.

Clark was on edge, his usual calm demeanor shaken. He clenched his jaw, his patience wearing thin. 

"Ask your questions then." he said, his voice cold and firm.

Fury's eyes gleamed with satisfaction at the response he received from Clark. 

"I just have one question, Clark." Fury started, his voice serious. "And I want you to think long and hard before you give me a truthful answer."

Clark's body tensed, waiting to hear the question that was about to be asked. He steeled himself, mentally preparing for whatever was coming next.

Fury's smile widened slightly as he noticed the tension in Clark's stance. He took a moment to savor the moment before delivering the question that he had been building up to.

Clark felt his heart pounding in his chest, his mind racing to come up with an answer that would satisfy Fury without giving away too much. He knew that any misstep could lead to dire consequences.

He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. "What is your question?" he asked, his voice betraying the slightest hint of nervousness.

Fury leaned forward in his seat, his eyes fixed on Clark. He could sense the tension in the room, and it seemed to only fuel him further.

"Are you willing to sell out what you love for your own safety?" he asked, his voice low and steady.

Clark felt a wave of panic wash over him. His mind raced to understand the question behind the question. 

What he loves? And for his own safety? He wondered.

He looked at Fury with a sense of dread. "What do you mean, sell out what I love for my own safety?" he asked, his voice cracking slightly.

Fury chuckled softly, his dark eyes taking in every move that Clark made. He knew that he had hit a nerve. 

"I think you know exactly what I mean." He said with a sly smile. "Or are you willing to sacrifice your deepest secrets?"

"What are you trying to get at, Fury?" Clark asked, his voice growing impatient. He could feel the sweat beads forming on his forehead as the tension in the room grew thicker. Clark knew that Mr. Fury knew..."If it came to that."

Fury leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving Clark's. "I think you know what I'm implying, Clark." he said, his voice calm and calculated.

Clark's mind raced, trying to make sense of the situation. He knew that Fury was on to him, but he couldn't let anyone know the truth.

"I...I d-don't know exactly what we are dealing with, but it's an intergalactic species not limited to our science." Nick Fury explained.  

Bruce listened to Fury explain, and knowing he knew more about the threat than they knew. "It's Darkseid...he's a New God."

Clark looked around at them. Trying too read their body language. Lois watched on. 

Fury let out a low whistle, "New God, huh? That's heavy stuff."

Bruce's demeanor didn't change, but his eyes hardened, "We're dealing with something far beyond our capabilities."

Clark felt a sense of unease settle in his gut. If even Bruce was concerned, then this Darkseid must truly be a threat.

"What about Doomsday, Lobo, and Wolverine, huh? What is their deal?" Fury tried to connect the dots. 

Bruce looked at Fury, his expression hardening. "Doomsday is a creature created by an alien race to be the ultimate warrior. He's nearly unkillable, and his strength is almost limitless."

"Wolverine, on the other hand, is a mutant with enhanced healing abilities and sharp claws made of adamantium.

Lobo is an alien bounty hunter known for his brutality and disregard for life. He's practically immortal."

Fury placed his hand on his forehead and turned to face Waller. Then he walked over to the door and motioned for somebody to come in. Moments later two soldiers brought in a child. 

"Maybe you two could use Billy. Billy Batson...meet Bruce Wayne and Clark Kent. This lovely lady over here is Miss Lois Lane." 

Billy looked up at the trio before him, his eyes wide with a mixture of trepidation and curiosity. He had been brought into this room with little explanation, and now he found himself face to face with some of the most powerful figures in the world.

Bruce nodded at the child, a stoic expression on his face. Lois gave him a tentative smile.

Clark knelt down so that he was eye level with the child. "Hello there," he said with a warm smile.

Billy looked at Clark, a mixture of awe and uncertainty in his eyes.

"I know who you are, sir." he said quietly.

Clark chuckled softly, "That's right, I am who you think I am."

Bruce smiled...he knew exactly who this child was, and he knew that they needed his help. If they could use anyone it was Billy Batson. 

Fury stepped forward, his tone turning serious. "Billy, do you know who Lobo is?"

Billy shook his head, his expression turning solemn. "No, sir."

Fury nodded, "That's okay. Lobo is a dangerous alien bounty hunter. He's known for his brutal methods and his complete disregard for life."

Billy's eyes widened at that, fear creeping into his expression.

Clark placed a hand on Billy's shoulder, trying to reassure him. "Don't worry," he said softly. "We won't let anything happen to you."

Billy looked up at Clark, his expression a mix of fear and trust.

Meanwhile, Fury turned to Waller. "Have you made any progress with the New God?" he asked, his voice tense.

"What's wrong with you two bringing a child into a war zone? I don't get what you hope to accomplish with that." Her voice filled with frustration and bewilderment. 

Fury crossed his arms, his demeanor exuding authority. "Billy isn't just any child," he said simply.

 Lois Lane's eyes flashed with annoyance but she couldn't help but be intrigued. "What do you mean?" she asked, her tone cautious.

"Billy has the ability to transform into a powerful warrior named Captain Marvel. With his powers, he could be a valuable addition to our team." Fury explained, his gaze never leaving Waller's.

Lois had no idea that the child could transform into a warrior. Clark had a secret that the child had recognized. Clark was not just Clark Kent. She was starting to think she'd figured it out. 

There'd been a time when she wondered if that might be the case, but she just couldn't see how one could be the other. Knowing that children could transform into warriors had been eye opening. Clark Kent was probably what she thought that he was. 

"That's exactly what I'm saying." Fury confirmed, his expression unchanging. "Billy has the ability to transform into Captain Marvel, a being with incredible strength, speed, and durability. He's not just any ordinary child."

Fury raised an eyebrow and sighed at Lois' request. "Fine, you can have your exclusive, but this is sensitive information."

Clark couldn't help but smirk at Lois' tenacity. He knew that when she had a story in her sights, nothing could deter her.

Waller, however, was less than pleased with the turn of events. She rolled her eyes and shook her head. "This better not blow up in our faces."

Fury nodded gruffly at Waller's warning. "Don't worry, we'll handle it. Billy is in good hands."

Lois was already making notes, her pen flying across the page. Her mind now on the story within the story.

"How did Billy acquire these powers?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

Clark watched on, impressed with her focus. He knew how determined Lois could be when she was onto a story.

"It's a long story, but the simple version is that Billy was chosen by a powerful wizard to be the champion of the gods." Fury replied, his tone dry.

Lois nodded, making a note of that. "And how does he transform into Captain Marvel?" she asked, her pen poised over the paper.

"When Billy recites the word 'Shazam' he transforms into Captain Marvel. It's a magical spell." Fury explained, his tone matter-of-fact.

Lois's eyebrow raised in interest. "Shazam...that's quite a word." she murmured, jotting down notes.

"It's an acronym." Fury clarified. "The gods responsible for his powers each lent him one aspect of their abilities."

Lois looked up, surprise in her expression. "Acronym? So it's like a code word?"

Fury nodded. "That's right. Shazam stands for the wisdom of Solomon, the strength of Hercules, the stamina of Atlas, the power of Zeus, the courage of Achilles, and the speed of Mercury."

Lois's pen was flying across the page, her notes becoming more and more detailed. "Alright, so each god is connected to a specific power?" she asked, her mind already starting to understand how the transformation worked.

"Precisely." Fury affirmed. "When Billy recites the word 'Shazam', each god's power activates, and he transforms into the warrior Captain Marvel."

"Impressive..." Lois murmured, her eyes wide with fascination. "And he gets all of these powers instantly just from saying the word?"

Fury nodded, a hint of a smile on his face. "That's right. The transformation is instantaneous and absolute."

Lois's mind was already racing with ideas for her story. She could just imagine the headline: "Boy Named Billy Batson Transforms into Powerful Warrior named Captain Marvel." It would be a sensation. 

Clark, on the other hand, was deep in thought. He knew something was off about this whole situation, but he couldn't quite pinpoint it.

Waller, noticing his expression, couldn't help but ask, "What's on your mind, Kent?"

Clark looked up, snapping out of his thoughts. "It's just...the whole thing with the gods and this boy transforming into a powerful warrior. It feels like there's something more to it."

Fury nodded, understanding where Clark was coming from. "That's why we need to find out more about these gods and their connection to Billy."

"But how do we even begin to explore that?" Lois interjected. "Are there any records of the gods, or is it all just myth and legend?"

Fury shrugged. "That's what we're trying to figure out. That's why we need him." He pointed to Billy, who had been quietly observing everything going on around him.

Clark knelt down next to Billy, his gaze soft.

"Hey Billy," he said, his tone gentle. "Can I ask you something?"

Billy looked up at him, his eyes full of fear and curiosity. "Yeah..." he replied, his voice barely audible.

"Do you know anything about the gods who gave you your powers?" Clark asked, keeping his voice soft and non confrontational.

Billy shook his head, his expression showing a hint of fear and confusion. "No...not really." he replied, his voice cracking.

Clark placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "It's okay. We're here to help you."

6

The team had no idea that Darkseid had located them. He was in the parking lot leaving a line of destruction in his path. 

Darkseid's eyes were like black pools of endless darkness. He was focused solely on Billy Batson.

 He didn't care about any of the others; they were nothing to him. 

He only had eyes for one purpose: to find and claim the powers of the gods. He had heard the legends, and he knew that only one person could fulfill his desires.

Darkseid's footsteps shook the ground as he walked towards the building. People were running out of his path, terrified of his monstrous appearance. 

He was unstoppable, a force of nature. Even the gods themselves would tremble before his presence. 

He was focused on one thing and one thing only...finding Billy Batson.

Darkseid pushed the doors open, the glass shattering as he entered the lobby. 

People were running away in all directions, trying to get away from him. It was clear that he was the most powerful being in the room, and he could see his prey nearby.

Billy was sitting in a corner with Lois and Clark near him. He was trembling with fear, unable to move. Lois was trying to comfort him and keep him safe. Clark was standing protectively in front of them both, ready to face Darkseid.

Darkseid stood there, his presence was overwhelming. Everyone in the room was frozen, their eyes glued to him. 

He could feel the fear radiating off the innocent bystanders. It filled him with a sense of power, knowing that he held their lives in the palm of his hand.

"I am Darkseid." He announced, his voice boomed out. "Bring me Billy Batson."

Clark and Bruce stood in front of Billy. "That's not going to happen." Clark said firmly and decisively. 

Darkseid chuckled at their defiance, amused by their courage. "You have no idea who you're dealing with, do you?" He said, his voice dripping with condescension.

"We know exactly who we're dealing with." Clark's voice was firm, but confident. "You're Darkseid, the ruler of Apokolips and destroyer of worlds."

"Impressive" Darkseid said, a hint of admiration in his voice. "You're not as ignorant as I thought."

"We have no intention of letting you harm the boy." Clark said firmly. "You're not taking him."

"You think you have a say in the matter?" Darkseid said, amused by their resistance. "I'm going to do whatever I damn well please."

"You'll have to go through us first." Clark said, his hands balling into fists.

"I was hoping you'd say that...because that's exactly what I'm about to do." Darkseid eyes glowing red. 

Clark stood his ground, his eyes meeting Darkseid's red gaze. "You really think you can take us all on?"

"I know that I can...but I'm not alone." Darkseid laughed at their defiance. 

"You brought reinforcements?" Clark said, his expression hardening.

.

"You better believe that I did. I'm going to rule the Earth Realm." Darkseid assured them. "You can't stop me, you cannot stop Thanos, your too weak to dream of defeating either one of us." 

"We'll see about that." Clark's voice was resolute, a fierce determination etched on his face.

Darkseid laughed at Clark's defiance and stubbornness. "You have a lot of courage, boy. But your courage means nothing to me." Darkseid said with confidence.

Clark clenched his fists tighter "We're not going to let you win."

"You don't have a choice, and deep down inside, you know that too." Darkseid eyes locked on Clark. 

"Even if I die, someone else will take up the fight." Clark said, his voice never wavering.

"That's what they all say." Darkseid said dismissively. "But in the end, they all fall just like you will." 

"Not today, not tomorrow, and not ever. We will never stop fighting." Clark was not going to back down.

Darkseid chuckled, "You're just as stubborn as I am."

"I guess we make quite a pair, huh?" Clark said, a hint of sarcasm in his voice.

"Too bad we're on opposite sides." Darkseid commented. "Now give me the boy."

Clark's expression was determined. "I'll say it one more time..you're not taking him, and you're not getting past us."

"You're just delaying the inevitable." Darkseid said, his anger building. "Just accept the fact that you've already lost."

"I'll never give up as long as I'm still breathing." Clark said, standing his ground.

Darkseid eyes were glowing with anger. "Then I'll just have to rip the breath from your lungs!" He said, charging at Clark.

Clark stood his ground, ready for the blow. He knew that he was no match for Darkseid's power, but he was also determined not to go down without a fight.

The impact of the attack was tremendous, the force sending shockwaves through the room. Clark stumbled back, but kept his footing, his eyes focused on Darkseid's next move.

Billy stumbled to his feet, his eyes fixated on Darkseid. The giant figure seemed like a towering menace, and his power was overwhelming. It was clear that he was not to be underestimated.

"Billy, you need to get to safety." Clark said, his eyes locked on Darkseid. "Now."

"No. I'm not leaving. I'm not running away." Billy's voice was defiant as he took a step forward.

"Dammit, what is it with the stubbornness?" Clark said, his voice full of frustration. "You can't fight him."

"It's okay...it's gonna take everyone." Billy said. 

"Well then let's see you do your thing." Bruce Wayne said. "Because, uh... we're in trouble here." 

Billy nodded, a determined look on his face. "Okay, I'll do it. But you have to watch my back, please?"

"Of course we will. We're with you all the way." Bruce assured him.

Billy nodded again, his eyes locked on Darkseid. He braced himself, preparing to tap into his powers. "Alright... here goes nothing."

He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, and then he spoke the magic words in a clear, powerful voice... "Shazam!"

The word echoed through the room, the words reverberating off the walls. And then, in a bright flash of lightning, the power of the gods transformed the boy into the mighty warrior Captain Marvel.

Billy stood there, his body covered in a suit of red and gold, lightning crackling around his form. He now stood seven feet tall, his once young face now transformed into that of a powerful warrior.

Darkseid tried to absorb the energy of the Gods. Just as he'd done with the powers of the crimson gem of Cyttorac. He was unable to resist the temptation, but ineffective in his attempt to behold his powers. 

Captain Marvel's eyes glowed with the power of Zeus, as the power of six gods coursed through his veins. He clenched his fists, his muscles straining with unimaginable strength.

There was a collective gasp from everyone in the room as they saw the transformation take place before their eyes. 

It was something that could not be explained away by anything other than the magic of the gods.

Darkseid's eyes widened in shock and awe at the sight before him. He had never seen anything like this before, a mortal being granted the powers of the gods.

Captain Marvel locked eyes with Darkseid, his expression fierce and determined. "You picked the wrong fight, Darkseid." He said, his voice booming with authority.

Darkseid took a step closer. "You're powered by God the Gods, but I am a God." 

There was a rumbling sound from within the hotel rooms. Smashing of lumber and plaster, before Juggernaut plowed through the wall. 

"Eliminate them." Darkseid ordered. 

Captain Marvel clenched his fists tighter. "Bring it on." he said, his voice steady and strong.

The Juggernaut, a hulking hulk of a man, charged toward Captain Marvel, fists clenched in anger. Captain Marvel stood his ground, bracing himself for the powerful impact.

The room shook as the two titans collided, the force of their impact sending shockwaves through the room. Captain Marvel gritted his teeth as the force of the impact pushed him back several feet.

Darkseid was watching the battle with an evil smirk on his face. He couldn't help but enjoy the show.

Captain Marvel gritted his teeth and pushed back against the Juggernaut with all his might, trying to match his strength blow for blow.

The rest of the team stood there, their eyes wide in awe as they watched the battle unfold. They knew how powerful the Juggernaut was, but they had never seen anything like this before.

Captain Marvel grunted as he was hit with another powerful blow from the Juggernaut's massive fists. But he refused to give up, pushing himself to his limit to push back against the brute's attack.

The fight was intense and neither side was about to give up. The Juggernaut was a force to be reckoned with and he was not holding back. 

He fought with all his might, his punches and kicks landing hard against Captain Marvel. 

The hotel was coming down around them. The upper floor caving in, as the walls trembled in defeat. Giving in a little more at a time. 

The battle was taking its toll on the building, causing the walls and ceiling to crumble as the two powerful beings struggled against each other.

 The team could only watch in awe and fear as the room threatened to collapse around them.

Captain Marvel was breathing heavily, starting to show signs of exhaustion. The Juggernaut was relentless in his attack, and it was taking all of Captain Marvel's strength to hold his own.

The team watched on, their eyes filled with fear and uncertainty. They knew that Captain Marvel was giving it everything he had, but they couldn't help but worry that it wouldn't be enough.

Clark knew that Superman was needed. He used his heat-ray vision on Darkseid. 

However, it was completely useless. Darkseid barely even flinched, his gaze locked on the battle before him.

Clark realized that he needed to find another way to help. 

He couldn't just stand by and watch Captain Marvel fight alone. 

He looked around, searching for anything that could give him an advantage.

Suddenly, Clark caught sight of an electrical panel not too far from them. He had an idea.

The lights in the room flickered as the power started to dwindle. The team looked on in surprise, but the Juggernaut was completely oblivious, his focus still squarely on Captain Marvel.

The electricity fizzled and died as the room went dark, the only light source coming from outside through the hole that the Juggernaut had made when he barged through the wall.

Seeing the opportunity, Captain Marvel seized his chance. He ducked just in time to miss the Juggernaut's next punch and delivered a powerful blow to his stomach.

The impact sent the Juggernaut stumbling backwards, momentarily stunned. 

Captain Marvel wasted no time pressing his advantage, his fists flying with lightning-fast speed.

The Juggernaut roared in pain, anger seeping through his veins. However, he was far from giving up. 

He lunged at Captain Marvel with renewed ferocity, his punches coming faster and faster.

But Captain Marvel was ready for him. With his heightened senses and incredible strength, he dodged and weaved through the blows, each movement fluid and graceful.

Captain Marvel landed a powerful blow to the Juggernaut's gut, the impact knocking the wind out of him. The Juggernaut let out a strangled gasp and stumbled backwards, trying to catch his breath.

Captain Marvel pressed his advantage, delivering a series of powerful punches that sent the Juggernaut stumbling backwards. Each impact sent a shockwave of pain through his body, his massive form faltering with every blow.

Captain Marvel was relentless, his fists flying with lightning-fast speed. The Juggernaut tried to fight back, but he couldn'd keep up with the Captain Marvel's superhuman agility. Finally, he went down to one knee, clutching his abdomen as he gasped for breath.

Captain Marvel circled the downed Juggernaut, his eyes watchful and alert. He knew that his opponent was far from defeated, and that he would have to be ready for anything.

Captain Marvel continued to keep his eyes glued to the Juggernaut, ready for him to make a move. The silence of the room was only interrupted by the faint sounds of breathing, the rest of the team still watching in awe.

The Juggernaut slowly rose to his feet, gritting his teeth in pain. He had to admit that he was impressed by Captain Marvel's power and skill.

"You're stronger than I thought you would be." The Juggernaut said, with a hint of respect in his voice.

"I could say the same about you." Captain Marvel replied, bracing himself for round two.

7

The military officers stood in disbelief as General Zod approached them. General Swanwick and General Lane awaited the meeting with the unknown Kryptonian General. 

"We understand that you're engaged in a mission, but we know that Kal-El is among you. We will withdraw from the planet without harm, upon the surrender of your Superman." Zod explained.

"We don't know what you're talking about...the Super Soldier?" General Swanwick questioning Zod's request. 

At that, Zod took a few steps towards General Lane, towering menacingly over the man. With a glare that could've burned a hole into steel, Zod spoke. "Don't play coy, I know you're hiding him away. You will tell me where he is." 

The Kryptonian Trinity looked at the human combat soldiers. General Swanwick looked concerned. "We are dealing with incompetence on this end. This town was completely wiped out by something. We're trying to figure out what happened. If the one responsible would also be the person that you you're looking for, well maybe, it might be possible to make a deal." 

General Lane looked on as they discussed the details and goals. "You see we've mysteriously lost almost nine thousand civilians."

General Zod listened carefully to the humans, considering their words. The revelation of the mysterious loss of nine thousand civilians intrigued the Kryptonians. "Very well," Zod spoke, his tone still guarded. "You're willing to strike a deal. What do you propose?"

Zod's eyes narrowed as he weighed Swanwick and Lane's proposal. "Very well," he responded, his tone neutral. "If you provide us with the individual in question, we will ensure that he is held accountable for his actions under the laws of our planet. However, in return, we expect you to fully cooperate with our investigation and not interfere in any way."

"To answer your second question," he glanced towards the soldiers, "No, my man is not among your soldiers. But he may have come into contact with him during this incident."

General Swanwick exchanged a glance with General Lane, considering General Zod's response. "We understand the gravity of the situation and the need for cooperation," Swanwick replied, his tone cautious. "We will ensure that your investigation is conducted with full cooperation from our end."  

After a moment of silence, Lane stepped forward. "We would like to propose a compromise," he offered. "We will provide you with the information we have gathered thus far, including any evidence we may have discovered, related to the person of interest."

Zod's expression remained guarded as he listened to Lane's proposal. He understood the significance of the information they could potentially provide. 

"Very well," he said, his voice firm. "We welcome the opportunity for collaboration and the exchanging of information. But let me warn you, General, I will not tolerate any deception or attempts to mislead us. We have the means to verify the authenticity of the information your government provides."  

Zod signaled to Ursa and Non, silently indicating their agreement. "We will provide our own evidence and intelligence as well," he added.

"Do you have a photograph of the man you're looking for?" Swanwick asked. 

Zod considered the request and gestured to Ursa, who promptly retrieved a tablet from their spacecraft. Ursa handed Zod the tablet, and with a few taps on the screen, he brought up an image of Kal-El. Without a word, Zod turned the tablet around to face the two generals, holding it up for them to see. The image on the screen depicted Kal-El, his features unmistakable.

General Swanwick stared at the photo and said. "Is that Kent?" Then he started laughing really hard. "Is that the reporter that we gave the story, the inside exclusive, and he goes to the wrong location, the wrong building that was miles away?" General Swanwick asked, but still laughing. 

"Surely not." General Lane said. 

General Zod's expression remained impassive, a stark contrast to the Generals laughter. He studied them calmly, his gaze unwavering. 

"You find this amusing?" he asked, his tone measured. "This is the man we seek. You are certain he reported on the incident?"

Zod's eyes narrowed as he awaited a response, his patience beginning to wear thin. General Swanwick's laughter irked him, the situation was far from humorous.

"Not so much him, but his partner did. Ms. Lane was her name. The guy here went to a different location and completely missed the biggest story of his life." General Lane answered. His tone serious and his facial expression empathetic. 

General Lane seemed taken aback by General Swanwick's reaction, but he quickly regained his composure. "Yes, we are positive that our reporter, Clark Kent, was the one who reported on the incident," he replied, his tone more solemn. 

General Lane continued, "Kent is a very dedicated reporter, and we granted him the inside exclusive. I'm surprised he messed up the location, but it's possible he was in a rush."

The radio alerts Swanwick of the police responding to the attack of Darkseid and Juggernaut's battle with Captain Marvel and Superman. Another unit out of Houston was deploying to the town. General Swanwick and General Lane had to respond. 

General Zod looked on and hearing the Earth name of Superman in reference of Kal-El. "Where's this Superman?" 

Zod's eyes gleamed with interest. "Superman?" he repeated, his voice betraying a hint of curiosity. "So, your world knows his true identity?"  

Zod's gaze shifted between General Swanwick and General Lane. "I see now that your intelligence about him was accurate," he said, a subtle note of respect in his voice. "Very well. I will take this information and investigate further."  

The Kryptonian general turned to Ursa and Non, his tone firm. "We have what we came for. Prepare the ship for departure."

Swanwick and Lane watched as Zod and the Kryptonians prepared their spacecraft for departure. An odd mix of gratitude, relief, and curiosity coursed through Swanwick he turned to Lane. 

"Well," he said, his voice laced with a hint of disbelief, "It seems the world almost came to an end because of misplaced reporting. Who would have thought an investigation would bring us face to face with Kryptonians?"

Lane chuckled, shaking his head. "Welcome to the world of modern warfare," he quipped. "Where even reporters can spark a celestial conflict."

Darkseid knew that the Kryptonian Trinity was upon them. With the powers of Superman he was interested in taking their powers too. He really wanted the powers of of the young Billy Batson.

Darkseid knew that the Kryptonian Trinity was upon them. With the powers of Superman he was interested in taking their powers too. He really wanted the powers of of the young Billy Batson. 

Darkseid's interest in Billy Batson's power was evident, as he had already absorbed the strength of Superman. "The power of Shazam," he mused, his voice heavy with ambition. "A mortal bestowed with the strength of gods. How intriguing." 

Darkseid's gaze turned to the young boy, a slight curiosity in his eyes. "How old are you, young one?" he asked, his tone softening momentarily.

Juggernaut stumbling backwards as he again collided with Captain Marvel. "When I finish Juggernaut, you're next, Darkseid." 

Darkseid looked mildly amused at Captain Marvel's declaration. "How spirited," he remarked, his voice tinged with a touch of admiration.

Captain Marvel stood tall, his resolve unwavering. "You may believe yourself to be invincible, Darkseid, but I've fought against impossible odds before and come out victorious."

Darkseid's eyes narrowed, his expression hardening once more. "Enjoy your victory over Juggernaut while you can. It will be your last."

Captain Marvel stood his ground, refusing to back down. "You're underestimating me, Darkseid."

Darkseid chuckled. "Oh, I don't think so. I've seen the limits of mortal power, and I know what it takes to defeat a god." 

Captain Marvel clenched his fists, his muscles straining with tension. "You haven't seen anything yet."

Darkseid's amusement grew, his eyes gleaming with a twisted sort of delight. "So, you believe yourself to be a match for a god? How amusing."

Darkseid stepped forward, his presence looming, as he responded, "I've faced beings far more powerful than you. Your arrogance is misplaced. Your strength will crumble before me, and my victory will be absolute."

His voice dripped with arrogance, "You are but a mortal, and I am a god. The outcome of this battle is already determined."

He clenched his fists, his voice echoing with determination. "I may be mortal, but I have the spirit of a champion. I've faced gods and stood my ground. Your arrogance is only matched by your audacity. The battle is far from over, Darkseid, and I won't go down without a fight."

"Then show me." Darkseid said, his voice challenging. "Show me what you're made of, Son of Shazam."

Captain Marvel took a deep breath, steeling himself for what was to come. "You're about to find out."

Darkseid sneered "Since you're not going to back down? I'll just destroy you." 

Captain Marvel smirked. "Bring it on, Darkseid," he challenged. "Let's see if you can live up to your talk. I can handle whatever you throw at me."

Darkseid's eyes gleamed with a sinister light. "Brave words, Captain Marvel. But words alone are not enough to defeat me." He raised his arm, his fist clenching as if preparing to deliver a mighty blow. "Prepare to taste the power of a god, mortal."

The Kryptonian Trinity looked on as the battle between Captain Marvel and Darkseid. Both Bruce Wayne and Clark Kent had moved out of sight. 

"This situation here is a dangerous one." Clark stopped in his tracks. "It's a job that requires Batman and Superman." 

Bruce pondered, his mind racing for a solution. "I have an idea." Bruce said.

"What is it?" Clark asked.

Bruce smirked. "You're not going to like it."

Clark sighed. "When have I ever liked any of your plans?"

"Trust me, this one will be worth it." Bruce said with a cheeky grin. "Just play along with what I'm about to do."

"Fine, but I have a bad feeling about this." Clark said.

"Just trust me." Bruce repeated. "Everything will be fine."

Clark nodded reluctantly. "Okay, I'll do what you say. But if this plan of yours goes wrong, I'm blaming you."

"Fair enough." Bruce replied. "Now let's get into position."

Their hearts began to race as they waited for the right moment to act.

Then when  the moment came. They sprang into action.

The flash bombs worked, as Darkseid and Captain Marvel turned their attention from each other to see what was happening.

The distraction was a success, as Darkseid's focus shifted away from Captain Marvel.

With Darkseid distracted by the unexpected disturbance of the flash bomb, Captain Marvel's eyes widened in surprise. It was a chance to take advantage of the moment.

He took a deep breath, bracing himself for the opportunity.

Zod approached them. "We are here to take Kal-El with us." 

Clark's eyes widened in surprised. "What?"

He couldn't believe what he was hearing. Was Zod really here to take Kal-El back to the rebuilt Krypton?

It was a disturbing thought, and he felt a sense of panic and protectiveness wash over him.

Zod regarded Clark with a cool, calculating gaze, his demeanor aloof. "Indeed," he confirmed, "We have come to claim him."

Bruce's face flushed with concern and anger, his grip on Clark was tightening. His protective instincts kicked into overdrive. "You can't take him," he protested, his voice firm but tinged with worry. "He belongs here."

Zod's stoic expression revealed a hint of amusement. "He is Kryptonian, he belongs with his own kind."

"Kal-El must stand before the Kryptonian Council for crimes against his people." Ursa explained.

"He's not going anywhere with you," Bruce stated firmly, his protective instincts flaring as he shielded Clark from Zod and Ursa. "He's not a criminal, and he doesn't need to answer to anyone."

Ursa regarded Bruce with a mixture of indifference and annoyance as he continued to speak, his voice growing heated.

"You can't just come here, take him, and drag him away. He means something to so many." Captain Marvel replied. 

"That's exactly right...you are not going to take him." Bruce said firmly.  

Thanos walked up beside Darkseid. "What do you want me to do with them." He strapped up the gauntlet. 

Darkseid glanced at Thanos, considering the options. "I believe it's time to teach these heroes a lesson."

A dark smile crept across Thanos's face as he nodded in agreement. "Very well, my lord. I shall make it a lesson they will never forget."

Bruce's anger and determination were palpable as he clenched his fists. "You won't take him." he declared firmly. "I won't let you."

Darkseid's eyes narrowed as he turned his attention to Bruce. "You dare challenge us?" he growled, his voice laced with a dangerous edge. "Your defiance is futile."

Bruce stood his ground, his voice steady as he faced Darkseid. "I'll do whatever it takes to protect Kal-El. You won't lay a finger on him."

A flicker of annoyance flashed in Darkseid's eyes. "Your loyalty is misguided, mortal. You can't keep him safe from us."

Bruce's expression hardened. "I'll do whatever it takes to make sure he's safe."

8

Darkseid moved in even closer, his breath cool, hypnotic tone. "Your friends there, they cannot comprehend real power. They fight out of ignorance, out of a misplaced faith in the inherent goodness of life. But you... you understand the cruel reality of their misguided intentions." 

Bruce's expression remained resolute as he met Darkseid's piercing gaze. "I understand the cost of fighting for what I believe in," he replied, his voice steady. "And I won’t back down just because you think I'm outmatched."

Darkseid's eyes narrowed, intrigued by Bruce's unwavering spirit. "You have courage," he conceded, a hint of amusement in his voice. "But courage alone won't save you or your Kal-El."

Captain Marvel gritted his teeth and pushed Darkseid back as he flew into his midsection. Electricity flew from the point of impact. Captain Marvel was flickering and stumbling away. 

Bruce's concern for Captain Marvel was evident as he watched the intense exchange between him and Darkseid. However, he couldn't intervene just yet. He needed to focus on protecting Kal-El.

Bruce stood protectively in front of Kal-El, his heart pounding in his chest. "Kal-El won't be going anywhere with you," he repeated, his voice firm. "You won't take him."

Darkseid's eyes gleamed with sadistic amusement as he studied Bruce. "You're so determined," he observed, his tone dripping with condescension.

Bruce's anger simmered beneath the surface as he met Darkseid's gaze. "I won't back down," he said, his voice tense.

Darkseid's amusement only seemed to deepen as he took notice of Bruce's unyielding stance. "You really think you can stop me?" he scoffed, his voice filled with disdain. "You're no match for the power I possess."

Juggernaut recovered from the beating he'd absorbed, and he slammed into Captain Marvel in revenge. 

Captain Marvel, still on edge from his earlier confrontation with Juggernaut, quickly braced himself as the villain re-emerged. Juggernaut, fueled by his burning desire for revenge, rushed toward Captain Marvel with unbridled rage, determined to deliver his own payback.

As the two titans clashed once more, the collision sent shockwaves through the battlefield. Darkseid's eyes gleamed with amusement, while Thanos's grin widened, relishing in the chaos they had unleashed.

The clash of power between Captain Marvel and Juggernaut was fierce, their battle serving as a harbinger of the struggle to come.

Bruce watched in horror as Juggernaut resumed his assault on Captain Marvel, the battle between them intensifying. With every collision, the clashing forces sent jolts through the air, causing the ground to tremble beneath them.

Bruce's protective instinct kicked into high gear, his focus split between Kal-El's safety and the unfolding battle. His heart raced, torn between wanting to intervene and the need to keep Kal-El away from the danger.

General Zod approached Bruce, grabbing his arm and slung him out of the way. "No mortal being will stand in my way." 

Bruce's expression hardened as he was abruptly shoved aside by General Zod. The abruptness of the General's action caught him off guard, and he stumbled momentarily before regaining his composure.

He clenched his fists, biting back a wave of anger and frustration. "You won't take Kal-El," he insisted, his voice firm. "I won't let you."

Non stepped forward grabbing Bruce. "You don't have a say in this matter. This is a Kryptonian matter. 

Bruce struggled against Non's grip, trying to free himself. "I may not have a say in Kryptonian matters," he conceded, his voice tight. "but I won't stand by and let you take Kal-El."

Non merely smirked at Bruce's determined protest, the sneer on his face conveying his disdain. "Your defiance is futile," he said dismissively. "You can't stand in the way of Kryptonian justice."

Ursa and Zod escorted Kal-El to the space-craft. Thanos stepped in the way. "Lord Darkseid hasn't granted you permission to remove his target." 

Zod looked at the two God's. "This is a Kryptonian criminal and he must stand before the Kryptonian Council for crimes against his people." 

Darkseid sneered. "You're taking him where?" 

Thanos chuckled as Lord Darkseid spoke. The Infinity Stones in his gauntlet glowing. 

Bruce watched in disbelief as Ursa and Zod led Kal-El toward their spacecraft. His heart sank, the realization that they were actually taking him away sinking in.

Bruce clenched his fists, his anger rising. "No," he muttered under his breath. "You can't do this. You can't just take him away like that."

Darkseid and Thanos stood in their way, their powerful presence commanding attention. Darkseid's voice echoed with authority as he questioned Zod's intentions. "Where are you taking him?"

Zod stood his ground, his voice steady despite the tension of the situation. "We are taking him to Krypton," he replied, his tone firm. "He must stand before the Kryptonian Council and answer for his crimes against our people."

Bruce's heart thundered in his chest as he listened to Zod's explanation. "What crimes has he committed against you?" he asked, his voice laced with frustration and disbelief. "He hasn't done anything wrong. You're taking him away for no reason."

The idea of Kal-El being taken, forced to stand trial on a distant planet, made him even more furious. He couldn't just stand by and let it happen.

Zod scoffed at Bruce's outburst. "Your understanding of Kryptonian law is limited," he said, a hint of condescension in his voice. "Kal-El has broken our most sacred laws, and he must face the consequences."

Ursa chimed in, her tone cool and aloof. "You have no say in this matter. Our justice is not subject to your approval."

Bruce felt the weight of their words, the reality sinking in.

"You can't just take him away like this," he repeated, desperation tinged with anger in his voice. 

"He has people here who care for him, people who need him. You can't just rip him away from everything he knows and loves!"

Thanos grabbed Non and Clark. "You are not going anywhere with him. Not until Lord Darkseid says so...understand?"

Non and Ursa shared a brief glance, their expressions betraying a mixture of frustration and annoyance. They reluctantly let go of Clark, and Non sneered at Thanos. "Very well," he replied, his tone tinged with irritation. "We will wait for Darkseid's instructions."

Ursa's eyes narrowed as she took a step back, joining Non in the silent protest against Thanos' intrusion. It was clear that they were not pleased with the interference, but they would follow the orders of Lord Darkseid.

Bruce watched the interaction unfold, his heart still filled with concern for Kal-El. "Darkseid, please," he pleaded, his voice urgent. "You can't let them take him away like this. He has a life here, people who care for him."

Darkseid's gaze flicked between Bruce and the Kryptonians, his expression unreadable. "Your concerns for this Kal-El are... commendable," he replied, his voice cold and calculating. "But Kryptonian law must be upheld. He will face the consequences of his actions."

Bruce's frustration boiled over into anger, his words tinged with desperation. "You can't just do this! You can't tear him away from everything he knows!"

Ursa rolled her eyes disdainfully. "Your attachment to this Kal-El is pointless," she sneered. "He is a Kryptonian and must answer to his own people. Your emotional attachment has no place here."

Zod nodded, a hint of sympathy in his eyes for Bruce's predicament. "I understand your concerns, mortal, but this is a matter of Kryptonian justice. There are laws that must be followed..."

Bruce's frustration gave way to anger, his voice rising. "Laws, laws, laws," he snapped, his tone venomous. "Is that all you people care about? What about compassion, understanding, love? Are those concepts foreign to you? Kal-El shouldn't be judged by you! He's done nothing wrong!"

Non's demeanor grew even more aloof, his expression a mix of boredom and amusement. "Compassion? Understanding?" he sneered, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Those are weak sentiments, the delusions of those who lack the strength to enforce order. Kal-El's fate is a matter of justice, and we have no use for sentimental attachments"

Bruce clenched his fists, his anger reaching a boiling point. "You're heartless," he spat, his voice trembling with a mix of anger and disbelief. "Kal-El is a hero, a symbol of hope for many. He deserves better than this! He's not some criminal to be punished and forgotten. He's a light in a world that desperately needs it. How can you be so cold?"

Zod sneered at Bruce,"This man is Kryptonian and he's deserter of his own people. The punishment for desertion during war is the death penalty. He must stand before the Kryptonian Council for his judgment and sentencing." 

Bruce's eyes widened in shock, his anger boiling over. "What?" he yelled, his voice trembling with indignation. "Death penalty? How can you be so cruel? Kal-El has done nothing but try to do the right thing! He's saved lives, helped people, made the world a better place. And you would execute him for that?"

"We don't negotiate with non-Kryptonian men about our investigations and regulations. You're nobody to us. You're a mortal being who has no influence on anything." 

Bruce's anger flared at Zod's condescending tone. 

He stepped forward, his eyes burning with intensity. "I may be a mortal," he stated, his voice firm and unwavering. "But I'm not just some random guy off the street. I stand for justice, for compassion, and for what's right. I won't let you take Kal-El away and execute him for being a hero!"

Non sneered at Clark, a disdainful smirk playing on his face. "We don't reveal our sources, Kal-El," he replied, his voice laced with contempt. "Suffice it to say that there are those who value our justice, and they were willing to share information with us."

In the background, Bruce clenched his fists, his anger barely restrained. He wanted to tear apart the very fabric of this situation, to free Kal-El from their grasp and make them pay for their cruelty.

"I will get you for this." Bruce Wayne shouted. 

9

The power of the Infinity Gauntlet glowing as it redirected the multiverse. Changing the realms. Casting them into the abysmal depths of multiple time-lines. 

As the reality around them shifted and twisted, the landscape transforming, Bruce felt a surge of confusion and disbelief. 

The world seemed to warp and contort before his very eyes, as if a force beyond his understanding was rearranging the universe.

The shifting landscape and the warping of reality left Bruce feeling disoriented and bewildered. 

He struggled to make sense of the disorienting change, his mind struggling to grasp the full implications of what was happening.

The ground beneath his feet felt unsteady, as if the very earth beneath him was in flux. Bruce stumbled, his sense of balance thrown off by the sudden shift in his environment. It was as if the very laws of physics were being rewritten, and Bruce felt helpless in the face of this cosmic force.

Bruce's heart raced as he tried to orient himself amidst the chaos. His mind reeled, struggling to comprehend the scope of the transformation unfolding before him. 

A sense of disorientation settled upon him, making it difficult to make sense of the rapidly changing surroundings. 

He stumbled, his sense of balance thrown off by the shifting ground beneath his feet, as if the very essence of reality was in flux.

The world around him seemed to twist and warp, the horizon shifting and swirling in a disorienting fashion. The air felt thick with an energy that was foreign and unnatural. It was as if the fabric of reality had been torn asunder, leaving behind a fractured and unstable world.

"Master Bruce...are you okay?" Clark asked. 

Lois stood watching as her husband lay on his back. The fearless butler by his side. 

Bruce Wayne regained his consciousness and collected himself. As he sat in a realm that he hardly recognized. 

Some of his thoughts remained inside of a realm of existence that he no longer existed in. He knew that Lois wasn't his wife. Clark wasn't the butler. 

However, those thoughts were being rewritten and revised within the realm he now existed in.  

Bruce felt as if his mind was filled with fragmented memories, pieces of a life that seemed both familiar and foreign at the same time. 

It was a disorienting sensation, as if his thoughts and recollections were being rewritten, and he struggled to make sense of the conflicting narratives that played out in his mind.

He glanced around, taking in his surroundings, feeling a sense of disorientation and confusion. It was as if the world he knew was no longer the same, and he had to reorient himself in this unfamiliar reality.

"Darling...are you okay." Lois rushed over. 

Bruce looked up at Lois, his eyes filled with uncertainty and confusion. "I... I think so," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of doubt. "It's just... everything feels so different. So strange."

Lois placed a hand on Bruce's shoulder, a concerned expression on her face. "Take it easy," she whispered, her voice filled with concern. "You fainted. I was so worried."

Bruce took a slow, deep breath, trying to steady his racing thoughts. "I'm alright," he reassured her, despite the lingering sense of unease that lingered within him. "I just felt... disoriented for a moment."

Lois nodded, her concern still evident. "You had me scared half to death, you know that?" she said, her voice filled with worry. "You just went pale as a sheet and collapsed. I thought..."

Bruce reached for her hand, gently squeezing it. "I'm okay, really," he insisted, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Just a momentary lapse. I must have been tired."

Lois raised an eyebrow, a hint of skepticism in her eyes. "Tired, huh? Since when do you faint when you're tired? You barely sleep as it is."

"What? Why?" Bruce asked. "Has there been problems?" 

Lois looked at him, a mix of concern and amusement in her gaze. "You really don't remember, do you?" she asked gently.

Bruce shook his head. "I'm not sure...I don't think I do."

Lois sighed softly, her eyes filled with understanding. "Well, you've been overworking yourself. 

Pulling long hours at the company, and then coming home and working well into the night on your Batman research. You barely sleep, and when you do, it's only for a couple of hours."

"Where is Alfred?" Bruce asked. "Is Clark the butler?" Confusion written on his face. 

Lois blinked in surprise, slightly taken aback by the randomness of the question. "Alfred moved away from Gotham and Clark? Clark has been our butler. Seriously, love, are you feeling alright? You seem a bit...confused."

Bruce rubbed his temples, his confusion growing. "I feel... lost," he admitted, his voice tinged with frustration. "Nothing feels familiar. I can't focus. It's like my thoughts are all jumbled and misplaced."

Lois wrapped her arms around Bruce's neck, her eyes filled with empathy. "It's okay to feel lost sometimes," she said softly, her voice gentle. "But you need to take care of yourself. You're burning the candle at both ends, and it's taking a toll on you."

Bruce sighed, his frustration giving way to a sense of exhaustion. "I just need to clear my head," he muttered, his voice laced with weariness. "But everything feels so chaotic and overwhelming. My mind is a mess."

Lois placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, her eyes filled with concern. "Maybe it's time to take a break," she suggested gently. "You've been pushing yourself to the brink. It's not sustainable."

Bruce looked over at the television. President Lex Luthor was on with comments about the military assignment that had created a lot of damage to several Texas towns surrounding Fort. Sentry. 

Bruce looked over at the television. President Lex Luthor was on with comments about the military assignment that had created a lot of damage to several Texas towns surrounding Fort. Sentry. 

Lois glanced at the television screen as well, recognizing the face of President Lex Luthor. Her gaze shifted back to Bruce, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Lex Luthor again," she muttered, a hint of frustration in her tone. "It seems like every time you watch the news, he's on screen."

Bruce's irritation flared, his annoyance with Lex's constant presence flaring back. "I can't stand the sight of him," he grumbled, his voice filled with distaste. "He's always grandstanding, pretending to be a savior of the people."

Lois nodded in agreement, her own irritation with Lex evident. "He's a blowhard," she said, her voice dripping with disdain. "Nothing more than a glory-hungry narcissist who'll do anything to keep himself in the limelight."

Bruce sighed, his frustration with Lex's endless media attention welling up inside of him. "And people eat it up. 

Lois nodded, her expression mirroring his frustration. "It's infuriating how easily people get fooled by his charisma," she bemoaned. "He's like a snake charmer, charming his way to the top, and the masses just follow like sheep."

Bruce clenched his fists, his frustration with Lex's deception fueling his anger. "He's a con artist, a charmer with enough charisma to make even the most logical person question their own judgment," he grumbled. "He manipulates the media, twisting the truth to suit his own agenda, and people buy right into it, too blind to see the deception hidden behind his slick smile."

"Clark...could you come here?" Bruce asked. 

"Yes, Master Bruce...do you need something?"

"Clark, are you my butler or my friend?" 

"I think that I'm both of those things, sir." Clark answered. 

"Are you Superman?" Bruce inquired. 

"Superman? Heavens no...I'm not Superman." Clark chuckled softly. 

Bruce furrowed his brow, his confusion deepening. "I could have sworn you were Superman earlier," he muttered, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "But now..."

Lois stepped in, trying to ease the confusion. "Clark has always been our butler, love," she reminded Bruce gently, her voice laced with concern. "You must have been dreaming or mistaken. You haven't slept well lately, and it's affecting your perception of reality."

Bruce sighed, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "You're probably right," he admitted, his voice tinged with defeat. "I guess I'm just...exhausted. My mind is playing tricks on me."

There was a knock at the door. Bruce jumped up to his feet. "Who's that?" 

"I'll get that, Master Bruce." 

"Hold on, Clark." Bruce said sharply. 

Clark turned back looking at Bruce. Before opening the front door. 

Bruce approached the door too. His mind racing with possibilities of who might be on the other side. He mentally prepared himself, his heart pounding in anticipation as Clark carefully turned the doorknob and opened the door.

Little Jimmy stood there on the other side. Not dressed as Robin, but in his street clothes. "Hey Jim...come on in." Clark said. 

Bruce's eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected sight of Little Jimmy. "Jim...what are you doing here?" he asked, his voice betraying a mix of concern and curiosity.

Jimmy's face lit up with excitement as he stepped inside the room, a wide grin on his face. "Hey, Mr. Bruce!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "I was in the neighbourhood and thought I'd stop by."

Bruce forced a smile, masking his confusion. "Well, it's nice to see you, Jim," he replied, though his voice lacked its usual warmth. "What brings you by?"

Lois glanced at little Jimmy, her concern mirrored in her expression. She could sense the tension in the room, and it made her uneasy. "Clark..." she called out softly.

Clark turned towards Lois, sensing her concern. "Yes, Lois?"

"Can I speak with you privately for a moment?" she asked, her voice laced with worry.

Clark nodded and excused himself from the room, following Lois into a nearby room. 

Lois closed the door behind them, her expression serious as she turned to face Clark. "Clark, we need to talk."

Clark's eyes filled with concern at Lois's stern tone. "What is it, Lois? Is something wrong?"

"It's Bruce," Lois said, her voice laced with worry. "He's been acting strange lately... even more so lately."

Clark frowned, concern etching itself onto his features. "Strange how?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern.

Lois sighed, running a hand through her hair. "It's hard to explain," she murmured. "He's been distant, unusually suspicious... and his memory has been off. He keeps fixating on this idea of you being Superman."

Clark's eyes widened in surprise at Lois's revelation. "Superman?" he repeated, his voice tinged with a mix of shock and concern. "Why would he think that I'm Superman?"

Lois shrugged, frustration colouring her voice. "I don't know," she admitted. "But it's been getting worse. He's been having these odd moments of confusion... like he can't discern reality from his imagination."

Clark's expression turned grave at Lois's words. "That's not good," he murmured, his voice laced with worry. "Has anything happened recently that might have triggered this?"

Lois shook her head, sighing deeply. "I honestly can't think of anything," she replied. "Bruce has been under a lot of stress lately. He's been working tirelessly to stop Lex Luthor's schemes."

Clark's expression darkened at the mention of Lex's name. "Lex... that man is like a thorn in our side," he muttered, his voice laced with disdain.

Lois nodded in agreement. "He's always up to no good, that's for sure," she said, her voice tinged with frustration. "But what could he possibly have done to cause Bruce's strange behaviour?"

Clark's expression hardened. "Lex is a brilliant but a cunning individual. He's always looking for ways to cause chaos and destruction. It's possible that he's devised a scheme to manipulate Bruce's mind."

Lois's eyes widened in concern. "You think Lex could be behind this?"

"You bet I do." Clark nodded grimly, his expression full of determination. "We need to find out what Lex is up to," he said, his voice firm. "And we need to get to the bottom of why Bruce is acting this way."

Lois's expression mirrored Clark's determination. "I agree," she said, her voice resolute. "Bruce has been through enough. We can't let Lex mess with his mind like this."

Clark's jaw set in a firm line. "We'll figure this out," he declared. "Together."

Just then, a loud noise erupted from the main room. Clark and Lois exchanged worried glances. 

"What was that?" Lois whispered.

Clark quickly rushed out of the room, with Lois following closely behind.

They entered the main room to find chaos. Bruce was on the floor, his eyes closed, and his face twisted in pain. Jimmy stood nearby, looking distressed and bewildered. Lois quickly ran over to Bruce's side, her expression filled with worry.

"Bruce! What happened?" she exclaimed, gently shaking him.

Bruce groaned, his eyes fluttering open. He looked disoriented and confused. "I... I don't know," he murmured, his voice slurred. "I was talking to Jimmy, and then everything just... went dark."

Clark crouched next to Bruce, his expression concerned. "Bruce, can you stand?" he asked, offering a hand.

Bruce tried to sit up, but his movements were sluggish, and he stumbled. Lois and Clark quickly steadied him, supporting him on either side.

"I feel... dizzy," Bruce mumbled, his speech slurred.

Lois exchanged a worried glance with Clark. "We need to get him to a doctor," she said, her voice laced with urgency. "He needs medical attention."

Clark nodded, his expression determined. "I'll call the Wayne Enterprises medical team," he said, reaching for his phone.

Just then, Bruce raised his head, his expression strangely fixated on Little Jimmy.

"We're all in danger." Bruce said. 

His voice was low and rough and laced with confusion. 

The room fell silent at Bruce's cryptic statement. Lois and Clark exchanged puzzled glances, their worry growing with each passing moment. Lois gently touched Bruce's arm, her voice soft but firm.

"Bruce, what do you mean we're in danger?" she asked.

Lois and Clark exchanged a quick glance, their concern deepening. Lois gently touched Bruce's arm, trying to get his focus. "Bruce, you're not making much sense," she said, her voice laced with worry. "Can you try to take a deep breath and explain what you mean?"

Bruce took a deep breath, his expression still a mix of confusion and pain. He tried to gather his thoughts, his voice shaky.

"I... I had a dream," he said, his eyes fixed on Little Jimmy. "A horrible dream. Darkseid... he's real."

Lois and Clark listened intently, their concern growing with every word.

"But it couldn't be true," Bruce continued, his voice growing more desperate. "It was just a dream, right?"

Clark stepped forward, his expression serious. "Bruce, what happened in the dream?" he asked, his voice firm.

Bruce's face twisted as he recounted the details of his dream. "Darkseid... he was there. He was surrounded by this... darkness. He had these eyes... glowing eyes. And he was looking for something."

Lois's expression hardened. "Looking for something? What was he looking for?"

Bruce shook his head, his expression pained. "I don't know. But he was determined, ruthless. He would stop at nothing to get what he wanted."

Clark's expression darkened. "This isn't just a dream, is it?" he said, his voice heavy.

Lois's expression mirrored Clark's. "It sounds like this Darkseid is real," she said, her voice grave. "And if Bruce's dream is anything to go by, he's a dangerous threat."

Clark's jaw set in a firm line. "We have to find out more," he said, determination in his voice.

Lois nodded in agreement. "But first, we need to make sure Bruce is okay," she said, her worry visible. She turned her attention back to Bruce, who had grown more disoriented and confused.

"Bruce, can you tell me what year it is?" she asked, her voice gentle.

Bruce shook his head, his expression growing more confused. "I.. I don't know," he mumbled. 

Lois's concern deepened. She turned to Clark, her expression panicked. "Clark, we need to get him help. Now."

Clark nodded, his own worry evident. He swiftly picked Bruce up with ease, causing the injured man to groan in pain.

"I'll take him to Wayne Enterprises Medical Center," he said, his voice firm. "Lois, can you help me keep an eye on him?"

"Maybe we should get some medical help...an ambulance or something." She replied. 

Clark shook his head, his expression resolute. "We can't risk anyone else finding out about this," he said. "Wayne Enterprises Medical Center has top-notch security. And they're discreet."

Lois sighed, but she knew he had a point. She nodded in agreement.

"Okay. Let's go."

Lois quickly gathered her essentials and called for a Wayne Enterprises car to pick them up. While waiting, she turned her attention to Little Jimmy, who was still standing nearby, looking worried.

"Jimmy, can you do something for us?" she asked, her voice gentle.

Little Jimmy nodded eagerly, happy to help. "Of course, Ms. Lane!" he said, his voice full of determination.

Lois smiled, appreciating his enthusiasm. "We might be gone for a while," she said. "Can you make sure everything is secure here?"

Little Jimmy straightened up, determined to help. "You can count on me!" he proclaimed.

Clark and Lois exchanged grateful smiles at Little Jimmy's enthusiasm. The Wayne Enterprises car arrived, and they carefully placed Bruce inside. Lois sat next to him, holding his hand, while Clark got into the driver's seat.

"Don't worry, Bruce," Lois murmured, stroking his hair gently. "We'll figure this out."

Clark started the car and began driving towards Wayne Enterprises. As they made their way through the city, Lois kept an eye on Bruce, monitoring his condition. He seemed to be in and out of consciousness, occasionally muttering incoherent words and phrases.

They finally arrived at Wayne Enterprises Medical Center. The facility was state-of-the-art and secure. The staff immediately recognized Bruce Wayne and quickly ushered them inside the emergency room.

Clark and Lois stayed with Bruce as doctors examined him. They exchanged worried glances, the uncertainty of what was happening hanging heavily in the air.

The doctors ran a series of tests on Bruce, trying to determine the cause of his disoriented state and the source of his intense pain. Lois paced back and forth in the waiting room, her worry etched onto her face.

Clark sat silently, his mind racing with possibilities. He couldn't shake the feeling that this was all somehow connected to their usual enemy, President Lex Luthor.

After what felt like hours, a doctor emerged from the examination room. Lois and Clark immediately rushed over, their eyes pleading for answers.

The doctor's expression was grave. "We found some abnormal activity in Mr. Wayne's brain," he began. "It's consistent with some kind of external influence."

Clark's jaw set in a firm line, his suspicion deepening. "External influence? What do you mean?" he asked, his voice cautious.

The doctor sighed. "We're not entirely sure," he admitted. "But we've ruled out any physical injuries or medical conditions that could have caused this. It appears to be some kind of... mental manipulation."

Lois's eyes widened in disbelief. "Mental manipulation? Like mind control?"

The doctor nodded grimly. "It's possible. But I must warn you, the extent of the damage is significant. Mr. Wayne's mind has been tampered with. It's going to take time for him to recover."

Clark's expression hardened with determination. "Can we see him?" he asked, his voice firm.

The doctor nodded. "Of course. Follow me."

He led them into Bruce's room, where the billionaire laid unconscious, monitored by various machines.

Lois immediately moved to Bruce's side, taking his hand and stroking his hair gently. Clark stood silently beside her, his mind racing with possibilities.

"What kind of mental manipulation would do this?" Lois asked, her voice laced with concern. "And who would have the power to do something like this?"

"I don't have an answer for that question." The doctor replied. "I think that he's going to be okay in a few days...we're going to do everything that we can." 

Lois nodded, trying to find comfort in the doctor's words. She sat down beside Bruce, holding his hand tightly.

Clark's expression was conflicted. He couldn't help but feel responsible for what had happened. If only they had known sooner...

"Doctor," he said suddenly, his voice serious. "Is there any chance that Lex Luthor could be behind this?"

Clark's eyes narrowed at the doctor's quick denial. "You sound awfully certain," he said, his voice laced with doubt.

The doctor shifted uncomfortably. "Well, I just mean... President Luthor is a respected public figure. I don't see why he'd do something like this."

Clark's jaw set in a firm line. "You don't know him like I do."

Lois shot Clark a cautionary glance, silently telling him to tread lightly. She knew they didn't want to tip off the doctor or anyone else to the possibility of the President being involved.

"Clark, we don't know anything for sure yet," she said quietly. "We should focus on getting Bruce the help he needs first."

Clark sighed, his frustration visible. He knew Lois was right. They couldn't go around accusing the President without solid proof.

"You're right," he mumbled, his shoulders slumping. "But I can't shake the feeling that Lex is behind this. We need to find out more."

Just then, there was a soft knock on the door and a young nurse stepped into the room.

"Excuse me," she said politely. "There's a James Gordon on the phone for you, Ms. Lane."

Lois's expression immediately perked up. "Jim?" she said, glancing at Clark.

Clark nodded, his expression also intrigued. "Take it," he said, gesturing towards the phone on the side table.

Lois picked up the phone, her voice urgent. "Jim? What is it?"

Jim's voice came through the line, sounding harried and urgent.

"Lois, thank goodness I reached you," he said quickly. "I need you and Clark to come down to Gotham police headquarters immediately."

Lois's eyes widened in surprise at Jim's request. "Gotham Police Headquarters? Jim, what's going on?"

Jim's voice was grave. "I'll explain everything when you get here. Just please, come as soon as possible."

Lois exchanged a worried glance with Clark before replying. "We're on our way."

She hung up the phone and turned to Clark. "Something's going on in Gotham. We need to get there now."

Lois sighed, her mind racing. "I don't know," she admitted. "But we can't just sit here and do nothing while Bruce is... in this state."

Clark nodded in agreement. "You're right. Let's go."

They both leaned over, kissed Bruce gently on the forehead, and then swiftly left the room.

They rushed down the hall, making their way towards the exit.

"Should we call someone to watch over Bruce?" Lois asked, her concern showing.

Clark shook his head. "The security here is top-notch," he assured her. "And Little Jimmy is there to keep an eye on things. Bruce will be okay for now."

Lois nodded, trusting Clark's judgment. They exited the building and found a waiting car already prepared for them. They quickly hopped in and the driver sped off.

Clark leaned back in his seat, staring out the window, deep in thought.

"I can't shake the feeling that this is all connected," he murmured, mostly to himself.

Lois leaned back as well, her mind racing. "You might be right," she said quietly. "But right now, we need to focus on what Jim has to say."

The car ride to Gotham was tense and filled with unease. Both Clark and Lois were lost in their own thoughts, each contemplating the possible reasons for Jim's urgent call.

Finally, they arrived at Gotham City Police Headquarters. The building was towering and imposing, fitting for the dark city it was in.

As they stepped out of the car, they were met by Jim, who was standing anxiously by the entrance. His expression was grim, and he looked worn out.

"Lois, Clark," he said, ushering them inside quickly. "I'm glad you came."

They followed Jim as he led them through the building's labyrinthine hallways. The sounds of the city's night chaos seeped into the building.

Finally, they reached his office and Jim shut the door behind them, his expression still serious.

"Take a seat," he said, gesturing to the chairs in front of his desk.

Both Lois and Clark sat, their eyes fixed on Jim. The tension in the room was heavy. 

Jim took a deep breath before speaking. "I'll get straight to the point," he said, his voice gravelly. "There's been an incident in the city."

Clark and Lois leaned forward, their attention fully on him.

"A building near the docks was attacked," Jim explained. "And there's been a lot of damage... and casualties."

Lois's eyes widened in shock. "Casualties? How many?"

Jim sighed heavily. "We're still assessing the damage, but preliminary reports say there might be over a hundred missing or dead in the wreckage."

Shock registered on both Lois's and Clark's faces at the horrifying news.

"Oh my god," Lois murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

Clark's expression darkened. "Any idea who's responsible?"

Jim sighed and shook his head. "Not yet," he said. "We're still in the process of collecting evidence from the scene. But I have a feeling this is bigger than us."

Clark and Lois exchanged a knowing glance. This felt eerily familiar to something they had dealt with before...

Instantly they knew they needed the help of Batman. However, there wasn't going to be any help like that coming. 

They sat in contemplative silence for a few moments, the weight of the situation weighing heavy on their shoulders.

Lois broke the silence, her voice hesitant. "Bruce..."

Clark's eyes darkened, his mind immediately going to his injured friend. "I know," he replied, the worry apparent in his voice. "But we can't risk bringing him into this right now."

Lois nodded, her expression pained. She knew Clark was right, but it didn't make the situation any easier.

Lois reached out, placing a hand on Clark's arm, trying to calm him down.

Clark took a deep breath, forcing himself to relax. "You're right," he said, his voice laced with frustration. "We can't let Gotham fall into chaos."

Jim's expression softened at Clark's response. He knew how much this city meant to him, and how much it meant to Lois as well.

"I have some... theories," Jim began, his voice cautious. "But I need your help to confirm them."

Both Lois and Clark leaned forward, their attention focused on Jim. They could sense the seriousness of whatever he was going to say next.

"Go on," Lois urged, her voice filled with anticipation.

Jim nodded and leaned back in his chair. 

"There have been a series of attacks around Gotham recently," he began. "Attacks that resemble the work of the Joker and his crew."

Clark and Lois instantly perked up at the mention of the Joker. They were all too familiar with Gotham's most notorious villain.

Jim nodded and leaned back in his chair. 

"There have been a series of attacks around Gotham recently," he began. "Attacks that resemble the work of the Joker and his crew."

Clark and Lois instantly perked up at the mention of the Joker. They were all too familiar with Gotham's most notorious villain.

"The Joker?" Lois asked, her voice laced with disbelief. "But the Joker has been locked up in Arkham for months. There's no way he could be behind this."

Jim held up a hand to quiet her. "I thought so too," he said. "Until I realized that the Joker's cell was found empty last night."

Jim sighed and rubbed a hand over his face.

"We're not sure yet," he admitted. "We still haven't found any signs of a forced exit. It's almost like he just... vanished."

Clark and Lois exchanged a nervous glance. This was getting more and more suspicious.

Jim leaned forward, his expression becoming more intense.

"There's one more thing," he said quietly. "Something that might be connected."

Lois and Clark both leaned in closer, their interest piqued.

"Luthor Tower had a break-in last night," Jim continued. "A group of unknown individuals broke into the building and made off with a number of advanced computer systems and classified documents."

Clark's expression hardened at the mention of Lex Luthor.

"Luthor..." he mumbled, his voice laced with anger.

Jim nodded, his expression grave.

"That's what I was thinking too," he admitted. "President Luthor's been more active lately, and the timing of all these incidents is too much of a coincidence."

Clark's jaw was clenched, his mind racing with possibilities. Could all of this be connected? Lex Luthor and the Joker, both working together to cause chaos in Gotham?

Lois spoke up, her voice thoughtful. "But why would they be teaming up? They're both after different things."

Jim shook his head. "As far as we knew, he was still locked away in Arkham."

Clark's expression darkened. "So that means Lex must have had something to do with the Joker's escape."

"With nobody knowing a thing about it?" Lois questioned. "Highly doubtful." 

Jim nodded in agreement.

"It would take a lot of resources and planning to pull off something like that without anyone finding out," he said. "And Lex has both."

Lois's expression hardened as she considered Luthor's capabilities.

"But why would Lex, the president of the country, risk working with the Joker? He's unpredictable and unstable."

"I don't think that he's working with Joker, but we know who has done so in the past. Anyone spoke to Cobblepot? We know that he stays connected to the criminal activity in the city." Lois said with confidence.

Jim raised an eyebrow at the mention of Penguin's name.

"Penguin?" he mused, his voice tinged with doubt. "He hasn't been seen or heard from in months. Gotham's criminal underground has been pretty quiet since the Joker was arrested."

There was a knock at the door interrupting them. 

They all looked up as the knock sounded at the door.

"Come in," Jim called out.

The door opened and a police officer poked his head into the office.

"What do you need?" Jim asked. "There's a man referring to himself as Nightwing in a costume, and he wants to speak to you, sir." 

All three of them exchanged confused glances.

"Nightwing?" Clark repeated, his head cocked to the side.

Jim sighed, his expression weary.

"Send him in," he said gruffly.

Dick Grayson walked into the hallway and into office. "Hello Jim." 

Jim's expression relaxed a fraction as he recognized the figure in front of him. "Dick," he said, a hint of fondness in his voice. "It's been a while."

Yessir....too long. The men shook hands

Dick turned his attention to Lois and Clark, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

"Lois, Clark," he said, nodding in greeting.

"I've come to help. The word is out. We're going to figure this out. I think this is the work of Ra's al Ghul." Dick explained. 

Everyone's expression shifted as the name dropped.

"Ra's al Ghul?" Jim repeated, his voice low.

Clark's jaw clenched, remembering the encounters he had with the League of Assassins leader.

Lois's eyes widened in surprise.

"But isn't Ra's al Ghul dead?" she asked, her voice filled with confusion.

Dick shook his head. "No. He's alive and more dangerous than ever."

"And why do you think he's behind this?" Jim asked, his expression skeptical.

Dick leaned forward, his expression serious.

"I've been tracking his activities for a while now," he explained. "And he's been making moves recently. Acquiring advanced technology and resources."

This caught everyone's attention. Clark's eyes narrowed as he considered the implications.

"What kind of technology?" he asked, his voice cautious.

"Military grade equipment, experimental weapons," Dick replied, his voice grim. "And I've been hearing rumors that he's planning something big. Something that could change the course of Gotham forever."

Jim's eyes widened at the name.

"Red Hood?" he repeated, a mix of disbelief and concern in his voice.

Dick nodded. "He's been providing me with intel on Ra's," he explained. "He's got connections on the inside."

Bane entered the police headquarters. The officers stood aside as he walked towards Gordon's office. 

Jim's eyes widened as he caught sight of Bane approaching.

"Bane?" he gasped. "What is he doing here?"

"I'm here to investigate the situation, and would appreciate full cooperation." Bane spoke. 

The mood in the room immediately shifted, and everyone stiffened.

Jim's expression hardened. "Bane, you have no authority here," he said, his voice firm. "You're an escaped convict, a criminal."

"Ra's has given me full support." Bane replied. 

"I don't think so, Bane." Nightwing said. 

Bane chuckled..."do you need to take the hard way." 

Jim clenched his fists, his anger rising at Bane's arrogance.

"You're not welcome here," he said through gritted teeth.

Bane cocked his head, a smirk playing on his lips.

"And who's going to stop me?" he taunted.

Clark rose to his feet, his expression firm.

"I'll stop you." he declared, his voice filled with determination.

"No you won't. Don't get yourself hurt." Bane said firmly.

Clark's jaw set in a firm line, his determination not wavering.

"I'm not afraid of you, Bane,"

"No, Clark." Lois said. 

Lois exchanged a worried glance with Clark, her concern for his safety obvious.

"Clark, this is dangerous," she said quietly, her voice filled with worry.

Clark shook his head, his focus still on Bane.

"I can handle myself," he assured her, his voice firm.

Bane grabbed Bruce's butler, and tossed him in the hallway. Clark stayed outside listening to them. 

Lois watched in horror as Clark was thrown out of the room. 

"That was unnecessary," he said through gritted teeth. "Clark is just a harmless servant."

Bane shrugged, his expression indifferent.

"He was in the way," he said simply.

Lois's anger flared at Bane's callousness.

"You have no respect for life," she snapped, her voice filled with disgust.

"You have no idea of what real power looks like. Sit down, lady." Bane replied. 

Lois bristled at Bane's tone, her anger rising.

"I won't be told what to do by a criminal," she said, her voice defiant.

Bane's smile widened, clearly enjoying the exchange.

"I like your spirit," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "But make no mistake, you're no match for me."

Lois gritted her teeth, her hands clenching into fists.

"We'll see about that," she said through gritted teeth.

Bane chuckled, clearly amused by her defiance.

Jim, who had been silently watching until now, finally decided to intervene.

"Bane, you need to leave," he said firmly. "You're not welcome here."

"You will be seeing me." Bane said. Then turned around and walked out. 

Jim took a deep breath, his mind racing with thoughts.

"We need to be prepared," he said, his voice filled with determination. "Bane is up to something, and we need to figure out what."

Nightwing nodded. "Yes...you got that right." 

Clark re-entered the room, his expression still filled with anger.

"I can't believe he just threw me out like that," he muttered, still seething.

Lois placed a hand on his arm, a gesture of comfort.

"You're okay, Clark," she said gently. "That's what matters."

Clark nodded, his anger slowly fading.

"You're right," he said, exhaling a deep breath. "We have bigger things to worry about."

Jim looked around at the group, his expression grave.

"We need a plan," he said, his voice intense. "We can't let Bane and his allies do whatever they're planning."

Dick nodded in agreement.

"I've been tracking the League of Assassins, but they've been lying low," he said. "They're up to something, though. I'm sure of it."

Lois tapped her chin, a thoughtful expression on her face.

"We need more information," she said. "If we can find out what Ra's al Ghul is planning, then maybe we can stop him."

Clark nodded, determination crossed his face. 

"But how do we get that information?" Jim asked, his expression skeptical.

Dick spoke up again.

"I know someone who might be able to help," he said. "A friend of mine in Gotham City. He's got contacts in the underbelly of the city, maybe he can help us."

Jim's expression brightened slightly at the suggestion.

"That's a start," he said. "But we need more than just intel. We need to be able to stop them once we know what they're planning."

Clark spoke up, his determination clear.

"We need a team," he said firmly. "We can't go up against Ra's al Ghul and his allies alone."

Dick nodded in agreement, his eyes gleaming with determination.

"I have some friends in Gotham," he said. "They might be willing to help."

Clark looked around the room, making eye contact with each person.

"We need to be ready," he said, his voice firm. "We can't let them catch us off guard."

10

"They have no idea the damage that's been caused." Ra's al Ghul said aloud. "They've broken the reality. They must be sent back to the universe they belong in." 

Luthor, who had been silently listening to the conversation, spoke up.

"Are you suggesting we send them back to their universe?" he asked, his expression skeptical.

Ra's al Ghul nodded, his eyes never leaving the screen.

"Yes," he said firmly. "They don't belong here. Their presence poses a threat to our plans."

Lex was silent, contemplating the implications.

"And how exactly do you propose we do that?" he asked, his voice cautious.

"Magic." Ra's laughed. 

Lex's expression hardened at the word 'magic'.

"Magic?" he repeated, his voice skeptical. "You expect me to believe in magic?"

"Are you telling me that you don't?" 

Lex's eyes narrowed at Ra's al Ghul's challenge.

"I believe in science and technology," he said firmly. "Not superstitions and hocus pocus."

Ra's al Ghul smirked at Lex's response, clearly amused by his words.

"You're closed-minded," he said, his voice dripping with condescension. "You don't understand the power of magic. It's beyond what you can comprehend."

"There's something in the universe that wanted them here, but I don't know what or why." Ra's al Ghul said firmly. 

"So we are on dangerous ground, here. Huh?" 

Lex's expression hardened as he considered Ra's al Ghul's words.

"We need to tread carefully," he said, his voice guarded. "We don't want to mess with something we don't understand."

Ra's al Ghul's smirk widened at Lex's words.

"You're starting to sound sensible, Mr. Luthor," he said, his tone teasing.

Lex's expression remained stoic, refusing to give in to Ra's al Ghul's taunting.

"I am always sensible," he said firmly. "I make calculated decisions based on logic and evidence."

Ra's al Ghul chuckled at Lex's response.

"You're so rigid," he said, shaking his head. "You need to let loose and have some fun for once in your life."

Lex's jaw tensed at Ra's al Ghul's words.

"I have no interest in your idea of fun," he said through gritted teeth.

Ra's al Ghul's smirk widened at Lex's reaction.

"You're no fun," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "You should lighten up a little."

"Well....what are you going to do?" Lex asked. 

Ra's al Ghul's expression turned serious.

"I have a plan," he said, his voice firm. "One that will rid us of these unwanted visitors and allow us to continue with our plans."

"We have to find Batman and we will have them all."

Lex raised an eyebrow at the mention of Batman.

"Batman?" he repeated, his voice skeptical. "You really think that a man in a Batsuit can help us?"

"YES!...he will bring them all to us at once. 

Ra's al Ghul's smile widened at Lex's words.

"And once we have them, we can send them back, and be free to do as we please."

"They'll never have existed in this universe....right?" 

Ra's al Ghul nodded.

"Once they are sent back, their existence in this universe will be erased," he said simply.

Lex was silent for a few moments, contemplating the implications.

"And you're certain that this will work?" he asked, his voice cautious.

Ra's al Ghul's expression was confident, his faith in his plan strong.

"I am certain," he said firmly. "But we need Batman to make it work."

Lex sighed, his expression reluctant.

"Finding Batman won't be easy," he said, his voice wary. "He's very good at remaining hidden."

Ra's al Ghul's smirk returned at Lex's skepticism.

"Nothing's impossible, Mr. Luthor," he said, his tone teasing. "We just need the right bait to draw him out."

Lex raised an eyebrow at Ra's al Ghul's confidence.

"And that bait is...?" he asked, his voice cautious.

Ra's al Ghul's expression turned sly.

"We'll use something he cares about," he said, his voice filled with confidence. "Something he would risk everything to protect."

Lex's eyebrows shot up in surprise at the implication.

"You're talking about Bruce Wayne's alter ego," he said, his voice cautious. "How do we get him to reveal himself?"

Ra's al Ghul's smile widened at Lex's question.

"We'll use his weaknesses against him," he said, his voice firm. "His love for Gotham City, his desire to protect the innocent. He won't be able to resist the chance to step in and play hero."

Lex couldn't help but be impressed by Ra's al Ghul's plan.

"You've thought this through," he said, his voice acknowledging.

Ra's al Ghul's smirk widened at the compliment.

"I've had a lot of time to think about it," he said, his tone almost mocking. "And I am nothing if not thorough."

Lex nodded in agreement, his mind racing with the possibilities.

"So what's the next step?" he asked, his voice business-like.

Ra's al Ghul's expression turned serious.

"We set a trap," he said, his voice firm. "We make it so that Batman has no choice but to show himself."

Lex nodded, his expression determined.

"I'll get some of my people on it," he said, his mind already working on the details.

Ra's al Ghul's smirk returned, his eyes gleaming.

"Good," he said. "We'll have Gotham's champion right where we want him in no time."

Lex's expression hardened at the implications.

"And once we have him, we take care of him." he said, his voice firm.

Ra's al Ghul's smile widened at Lex's words.

"Exactly," he said, his tone satisfied. "Once they're gone, it will be as if they never existed at all."

Ra's al Ghul's expression darkened at the question.

"Failure is not an option," he said, his voice firm. "We cannot afford to fail."

Lex's expression remained stoic, his mind racing with the possibilities.

"What about the other heroes?" he asked. "Will they be a problem?"

Ra's al Ghul's smirk widened at the question.

"They're nothing but a distraction," he said, his tone dismissive. "They'll be too busy trying to figure out what's going on to stop us."

Lex's expression was thoughtful, his mind working through the possibilities.

"And what about Joker?" he asked, his voice cautious. "He won't just give up without a fight."

Ra's al Ghul's smirk turned sinister at the mention of Joker.

"He'll be dealt with," he said, his voice firm. "He's just a nuisance, a wild card that can't be left in the deck."

Lex's expression was cautious, his mind still contemplating the possibilities.

"And once we're finished with Batman, we'll be able to move forward with our plans without interference?" he asked.

Ra's al Ghul shook his head, his confidence unwavering.

"No," he said firmly. "Once Batman is taken care of, there will be nothing standing in our way."

Lex's expression hardened, his mind turning completely to the plan.

"Then let's get to work," he said firmly. "We have a lot to do.

The small boy watched the bustling city around him. The scene was like something from a movie. Billy Batson wasn't exactly sure why he was in Gotham City. His handlers had sent him there. 

Billy's eyes darted around nervously, taking in the surroundings. He felt out of place in the high-rise buildings and the sounds of the hustle and bustle. He was used to the more laid-back atmosphere of Fawcett City.

He fidgeted with something in his pocket, a small object that he played with whenever he was feeling anxious.

As he walked, his attention was drawn to a television screen in a store's window. The news was showing footage from Arkham Asylum, and his ears perked up.

"Arkham Asylum?" he mumbled, his curiosity piqued.

Billy's footsteps quickened as he made his way towards the store, pushing past the other pedestrians. He was determined to get a better look at the news footage.

When he reached the store, he pressed his face against the glass window, trying to get a better view of the news report.

The news report showed footage of the Joker's empty cell from Arkham Asylum. The Clown Prince of Crime was seen causing chaos and mayhem throughout the city. 

Billy's eyes widened in shock at the sight. He couldn't believe that the Joker was loose, causing trouble again.

He watched as the Joker's laughing face filled the screen, his usual maniacal laughter echoing through the air.

Billy shivered, feeling a mix of fear and disgust. He knew all too well about the Joker's madness.

This was why he was in Gotham City. The world's greatest hero was needed. To help the authorities recapture the mad man, known as The Joker. 

Billy's thoughts raced as he watched the news report. He knew that the situation was dire. Without the world's greatest hero, the Joker would continue his reign of terror unchecked.

He knew what he needed to do. He had to find a way to help capture the Joker.

Billy took a deep breath, his mind made up. He turned away from the store window and made his way down the sidewalk, his eyes scanning the crowd for anything out of the ordinary.

His eyes landed on a nearby alleyway and he hesitated for a moment before making his way towards it.

He stepped into the alleyway, the darkness of the shadows enveloping him. He felt a sense of unease as he walked deeper into the alley, but he kept going.

As he reached the end of the alley, he saw a figure standing there.

The figure was tall and muscular, dressed in a dark, shadowy costume that left only his eyes visible. 

Billy's heart raced as he approached the figure. He knew who this was.

The figure turned to face Billy, his eyes narrowing.

"What are you doing here?" he asked, his voice gruff.

Billy swallowed nervously, but he stood his ground.

"I...I came to help," he said, his voice a little shaky.

The figure's eyes studied Billy for a moment, as if trying to gauge his sincerity.

"Help?" he repeated, his tone skeptical. "And how exactly can you help?"

Billy took a deep breath, trying to steady himself.

"I...I can help you find the Joker," he said, his voice gaining confidence. "I know where he is."

The figure's expression shifted, and he took a step closer to Billy.

"You know where the Joker is? That's quite the claim," he said, his voice now intrigued.

"Do you have any proof to back up this claim, boy?" the figure asked.

Billy reached into his pocket and pulled out the object he had been fidgeting with, a small, silver lightning bolt amulet. 

"I do," he said, his tone confident.

The figure's eyes flicked down to the amulet in Billy's hand, then back up to his face. 

"What is that?" he asked, his voice now curious.

"It's something that can help us find the Joker," Billy said, his tone serious.

The figure took another step closer to Billy, his eyes narrowing as he examined the amulet.

"And how can this help us?" he asked, his tone skeptical yet interested.

"It gives me the ability to transform into a powerful being, with abilities that can help us defeat the Joker," Billy explained. 

The figure's expression was unreadable, but his eyes betrayed a hint of intrigue.

"Sounds like a useful tool," he said, his tone now more measured. "But how do I know you're telling the truth?"

"You don't have to take my word for it," Billy said, his confidence growing. He gripped the amulet tightly, and shouted SHAZAM. Then in a flash of lightning, he transformed into the Mighty Captain Marvel.

The figure's eyes widened in surprise as he watched the transformation.

"Well, I'll be damned," he muttered, his tone now tinged with surprise and respect.

Billy smiled, his confidence boosted by the figure's reaction.

"I told you I could help," he said, his tone now cocky.

The figure scratched his chin, still in a bit of disbelief.

"I'm still not sure if I can trust you," he said, his tone guarded. (but yet...slightly impressed.)

Billy shrugged, his confidence unwavering.

"That's your choice," he said, his tone nonchalant. "But I'm telling you, I can help you find the Joker."

The figure was silent for a moment, his expression thoughtful.

"Alright," he said finally, his tone now more amenable. "I'll give you a chance to prove yourself."

Billy smiled, his confidence now at an all-time high.

"You won't regret it," he said, his tone triumphant.

The figure chuckled, amused by Billy's confidence.

"We'll see about that," he said, his tone almost playful.

Billy smirked, enjoying the banter.

"You're on," he said, his eyes glinting mischievously.

The figure nodded, his expression now more business-like.

"Alright, let's get to work."

Billy's eyes gleamed with determination.

"Where do we start?" he asked, his tone eager.

The figure's expression became serious.

"We need to find out where the Joker is hiding," he said, his voice firm. "He's been quiet for too long. He's planning something."

Billy nodded, his expression serious.

"I agree. The Joker is dangerous, and we need to find out what he's up to before it's too late."

"Can you use that amulet of yours to track him down?" the figure asked, gesturing towards the lightning bolt amulet around Billy's neck.

"I can try," Billy said, his tone thoughtful. "The amulet has the power to locate anything or anyone. If the Joker is anywhere in Gotham, the amulet should be able to lead us to him."

The figure's expression was satisfied.

"Then let's get to work," he said, gesturing for Billy to follow.

Billy nodded, and the two of them set off, determined to find the Joker before it was too late.

The figure and Billy walked through the streets of Gotham, searching for clues leading them to the Joker's whereabouts.

The sun was setting, casting a reddish hue across the city's skyline. The streets were relatively quiet, except for the occasional car passing by.

The figure stayed vigilant, scanning their surroundings for anything out of the ordinary.

Billy followed closely beside him, peering intently into every dark alley and corner they passed.

Suddenly, the figure came to a halt, his eyes narrowing as he spotted something up ahead.

"Wait," he said, his tone sharp.

Billy stopped, his heart racing with anticipation. He followed the figure's gaze, trying to see what had him so alert.

The figure pointed to an abandoned warehouse up ahead.

"Looks like we might have found something," he said, his tone cautious.

Billy's eyes widened in anticipation.

"The Joker could be in there," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

The figure nodded, his expression hardening.

"We need to be careful, though. The Joker is a dangerous and unpredictable opponent."

Billy shook his head, his confidence unfazed.

"I'm not afraid of the Joker," he said, his tone defiant. "I can handle him."

The figure gave Billy a sideways glance.

"That's a dangerous attitude," he said, his tone wary. "The Joker is not someone to be underestimated."

Billy shrugged, his confidence undaunted.

"I've faced worse than the Joker," he said, his tone firm. "I'm not afraid of him."

The figure raised an eyebrow.

"Really? And who have you faced that's worse than the Joker?"

Billy's expression darkened, his eyes filled with a distant pain.

"I've faced things far worse than the Joker. Things that you couldn't even begin to imagine."

The figure was silent, his expression slightly concerned.

"Is that so?" he said softly. "Care to elaborate?"

"I've faced Darkseid." 

The figure's eyes widened in surprise.

"Darkseid?" he repeated, a note of disbelief in his tone. "You've faced Darkseid?"

Billy nodded, his expression solemn.

"Yes, I have faced Darkseid," he said, his voice heavy with the weight of the memory. "And let me tell you, he's far more dangerous than the Joker."

The figure was speechless, his expression filled with respect and concern.

"You've fought against the forces of Apokolips?" he said softly. "And survived?"

Billy's expression darkened, his eyes distant.

"I've fought against more than just Darkseid of Apokolips. I've fought against gods and monsters, and against beings so powerful you couldn't even begin to understand."

The figure was silent for a moment, struggling to understand the enormity of what Billy was saying.

"You've...you've fought gods and monsters?" he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper.

Billy nodded, his expression serious.

"Yes, and let me tell you, they're nothing compared to Darkseid."

The figure's expression was a mixture of awe and disbelief.

"And you've survived all of this?" he asked, his voice cautious.

The figure was speechless, his mind struggling to comprehend the enormity of what Billy had survived.

"I...I don't even know what to say," he said, his voice filled with respect.

"You don't have to say anything," Billy said, his voice nonchalant. "Just know that I'm not afraid of the Joker. I've faced worse and come out on top."

The figure nodded, his expression a mix of respect and concern.

"Alright, I won't argue with you on that," he said, his tone guarded. "But I warn you, the Joker is a different beast entirely. He's unpredictable and dangerous. You need to be careful."

Billy's expression hardened, his tone firm.

"I can handle dangerous," he said, his voice confident. "I'm not afraid of the Joker. I'll prove it to you."

The figure's expression remained cautious, but he relented.

"Alright, fine. But remember, I warned you."

Billy nodded, his expression tense. He followed the figure's lead, remaining quiet as they both listened intently for the sound.

The figure's eyes widened as he spotted Batman moving about the rafters of the warehouse. He whispered to Billy.

"Look, it's the Bat. That must mean the Joker's in here somewhere."

Billy's expression hardened, his eyes fixed on Batman's form.

"I see him," he said, his voice low. "We should follow him."

The figure nodded, his eyes still fixed on Batman.

"Agreed," he said, his tone cautious. "But we need to be careful. Batman is highly trained, and he won't hesitate to take us down if he sees us as a threat."

Billy's expression was serious, but undeterred.

"I'm not afraid of Batman," he said, his voice confident. "I can handle myself."

The figure sighed, his expression a mix of caution and worry.

"You're braver than I am," he said, his tone serious. "But we need to tread carefully."

Billy nodded, his expression determined.

"I understand," he said, his voice firm. "I'll be careful."

The figure's expression was cautious, his mind still worrying over the potential danger.

"You better be," he said, his tone firm. "The Joker is known for his traps and cruel jokes."

Billy nodded, his expression serious. 

"I know," he said, his voice grim. "But I'm not afraid to face any challenge."

They were both found by Tim Drake operating as Batman. Lois was with Bruce at Wayne Enterprises Medical Center. 

The two of them followed closely behind Batman, being careful to stay out of sight. They watched as he moved through the warehouse, searching for any sign of the Joker.

Batman moved silently through the warehouse, his eyes scanning the room for any sign of the Joker. He was hyper-aware of every sound and movement, ready to react at a moment's notice.

As he made his way through the building, he couldn't help but feel a growing sense of unease. 

The Joker was unpredictable and dangerous, and the silence of the warehouse only heightened his sense of caution.

Billy and his friend were careful to stay in the shadows, following behind Batman silently and keeping their distance. 

They watched as Batman moved around, his gaze scanning the area.The atmosphere was thick with tension, and Billy could feel his heart pounding in his chest. 

He knew the Joker was dangerous and unpredictable, and the thought of encountering him filled him with both excitement and fear.

As Batman continued his search, he suddenly stopped, his attention drawn to a faint noise in the distance. He strained his ears, trying to make out what the sound was.

Billy and his friend froze at the sight of Batman's sudden halt, their eyes narrowing in anticipation.

Batman's expression was tense, his body coiled like a spring as he listened intently. The sound grew louder, and he could now make out the sound of laughter in the distance.

Billy and his friend exchanged a nervous glance, their eyes wide with anticipation. They knew that sound all too well - it was the Joker's maniacal laughter.

As Batman moved closer to the source of the laughter, he suddenly came to a halt again, his expression turning to that of shock.

Billy and his friend followed suit, their eyes fixed on Batman's expression. They could sense the seriousness of the moment, and they waited with bated breath to see what had caused him to react so strongly.

As they drew closer, they could hear the Joker's laughter growing louder and more manic. It was clear that he was enjoying himself, his twisted sense of humor and love of chaos on full display.

Batman's expression hardened at the sound of the Joker's laughter, his jaw clenched tightly. He knew that the Joker was dangerous, but hearing his gleeful cackling only added to the fear that was already building within him.

The thunder outside vibrated the whole warehouse, the lightning illuminated the dark areas and corners.

The storm outside continued to rage on, the thunder and lightning adding to the already thick atmosphere. 

Billy and his friend followed Batman's lead, creeping forward in the shadows. They could feel the tension and uncertainty in the air.

Batman's expression was focused, his ears straining to catch every sound. The Joker's laughter continued, becoming louder and more manic with each passing moment. The sound was eerie and unsettling, making the hair on the back of both boys stood on end.

Billy and his friend exchanged a nervous glance, their eyes wide with fear.

"They're going to be okay, right?" he asked, his voice low and cautious.

Batman's expression was firm, his focus never wavering.

"I hope so," he replied, his voice low. "But the Joker is unpredictable and dangerous. Anything could happen."

Billy and his friend exchanged nervous glances once again, their fear only growing at the confirmation of the Joker's danger. They knew just how unpredictable and scary the Joker could be.

The Joker's laughter echoed through the warehouse, filling the air with a sense of dread.

"We have to do something," Billy said, his voice filled with determination.

Batman's expression softened for a moment, his respect for the boy's bravery showing through.

"I know," he said, his voice more gentle. "But we have to do this carefully. The Joker is dangerous."

Billy's expression was determined, his eyes fixed on Batman's.

"I understand the risk," he said. "But we can't just sit back and do nothing."

Batman's expression was conflicted, torn between wanting to protect the boy and letting him help.

There was a long moment of silence, broken only by the sound of the Joker's laughter.

Finally, Batman spoke up, his expression resigned.

"Fine," he said. "But you need to stay close and follow my lead. Understood?"

Billy's expression was grateful, his determination only growing.

"Understood," he said, his voice firm.

Batman nodded, pleased with Billy's response.

"Alright then," he said. "Let's go."

Then with that, Batman moved forward, Billy and his friend following closely behind.

The three of them crept through the warehouse, following the sound of the Joker's laughter. 

The storm outside only added to the tension, the thunder and lightning adding a sense of urgency to the situation.

As they made their way through the complex, they could see traces of the Joker's antics - broken furniture, graffiti, and remnants of his various schemes. Each sight only served to heighten their fear and anticipation.

"I have the power." Joker laughed. 

The Joker's voice was suddenly heard through the darkness, and the group stopped in their tracks.

Billy's eyes widened at the sound, his heart pounding in his chest. The Joker was somewhere nearby, somewhere in the shadows.

"Blessed by the Dark Lord." Joker shouts. Followed by his evil chuckling. "I can't be stopped anymore." 

Batman's expression was grim, his body tense as he listened intently.

"He's close," he said in a low, cautious tone. "Stay alert."

Billy and his friend exchanged another nervous glance, their fear only growing stronger at the confirmation that the Joker was nearby.

The Joker's laughter echoed through the room again, this time even louder and more maniacal than before.

Batman moved silently knowing that the Joker wasn't alone. 

Batman stopped suddenly, his eyes scanning the room. He could feel the Joker's presence, but also the presence of another person.

"There's someone else here," he said, his voice low.

Billy and his friend looked around, their eyes frantically searching for any sign of the other person.

The Joker's laughter continued, filling the air with a sense of unease.

"It's Thanos...powering his craziness with the Infinity Gauntlet." Billy said. 

The group froze at Billy's words, their eyes widening in shock.

"The Infinity Gauntlet?" Batman repeated, his voice filled with disbelief.

Billy nodded, his expression serious.

"Yes," he said. "Thanos has the Infinity Gauntlet, which is making the Joker even more powerful than he already is."

Batman's expression was grim, his mind racing with the implications.

"If the Joker has access to the Infinity Gauntlet, then we're in even more danger than I thought," he said, his voice low and cautious.

The power of the Infinity Gauntlet could be felt throughout the warehouse. The Gauntlet glowing various colors. 

"How do you know that, Billy?" Batman asked. 

"Because I remember something I am not supposed to know." Billy said quietly. 

Batman's expression was curious, his mind trying to make sense of what Billy was saying.

"What do you mean?" He asked, his voice filled with caution.

"They sent me into this dimension. It appears like the one that I was in before, but this is not the same realm of reality I'm from. Darkseid and Thanos are controlling this existence." 

Batman's expression was shocked, his mind struggling to process the information.

"Darkseid and Thanos are working together?" He asked, his voice filled with disbelief.

Billy nodded, his expression solemn.

"Yes," he said. "They're working together to control this universe. And with the Joker's help, they've become even more dangerous than before."

Batman looked down. Realizing that game has changed.

"They'll use the Joker's madness and his eagerness to defeat you."

Batman's expression was grim, his mind racing with the implications.

"They'll use him as... a pawn," he said, his voice filled with bitterness.

"Exactly...completely disposable." Billy replied. 

Billy and his friend exchanged a worried glance, their fear only growing stronger at the implication of the Joker being used as a pawn by such powerful beings.

The sound of the Joker's laughter filled the air again, this time even more sinister than before.

Batman could feel the tension in the air, the fear and uncertainty that filled the room.

"We have to stop them," he said firmly. "Before they destroy this reality."

Billy and his friend looked at each other, their expressions filled with fear and determination.

"We'll do whatever it takes," Billy said, his voice firm.

Batman's expression softened for a moment, his respect for the boy growing.

"Good," he said. "Because this won't be easy."

The storm outside continued to rumble, the lightning providing intermittent bursts of light into the dark warehouse. The atmosphere was tense, and the group could sense that the danger was about to reach a boiling point.

They could hear the Joker's laughter growing louder and more maniacal, his excitement at the chaos he was creating growing with each passing moment.

Batman's expression was focused, his body tense as he scanned the room.

"They're close," he said, his voice low and cautious. "Stay alert."

Darkseid and Thanos stood towering above the Joker. The Infinity Gauntlet glowing as it powered Joker.

Darkseid's figure was imposing, towering over the Joker. The Infinity Gauntlet on his hand glowed brightly, its energy feeding into the Joker.

The villain's eyes were wide with excitement, his laughter reaching a fever pitch. 

Billy and his friend watched the scene from the shadows, their eyes wide with fear. They had never seen anything like this before.

Batman's expression was stern, his jaw clenching as he observed the scene unfolding before them.

The Joker's laughter echoed around the room, his voice filled with a twisted excitement. He was a madman fully powered, and it terrified the group.

Darkseid's expression remained stoic as he watched the Joker, his eyes taking in every detail of the scene.

The air was thick with the sound of the Joker's laugh, a sound that sent chills down Billy and his friend's spines.

Batman's expression was somber, his mind racing with possible strategies. He knew this was going to be a difficult battle.

The storm outside continued to rage on, the sound of the thunder and the lightning adding to the already intense atmosphere.

The Joker continued to laugh, his voice filled with malice. He was loving every second of this.

Batman's expression was grim, his eyes never leaving the Joker.

"We need to make a move," he said in a low voice. "And we need to do it now."

Billy and his friend looked at Batman, their eyes wide with fear but also with determination. 

They knew that they needed to do something, but they weren't sure what.

The Joker's laughter seemed to fill the air, filling everyone with dread. The sheer intensity of the situation was almost more than they could handle.

Batman's mind was racing, trying to come up with a plan. He knew that they couldn't just stand there and let the Joker and Darkseid continue their reign of terror.

"We have to act," he said, his voice firm. "But we have to be smart about it."

Billy and his friend nodded in agreement, their bravery starting to show through their fear.

"What do you suggest?" Billy asked, his voice hesitant but determined.

Batman's expression was thoughtful, his mind working through possible options.

"We need to distract them," he said, his voice firm. "If we can draw their attention away from the Infinity Gauntlet, we might have a chance."

Billy and his friend's eyes widened at Batman's words. The thought of distracting the villains was both exciting and terrifying.

"How do we do that?" His friend asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Batman's expression was serious, his mind working through the possibilities.

"We need to create a diversion," he said, his voice firm. "Something that will draw their attention and keep it on us."

As Batman spoke, the Joker's laughter echoed through the room again, his joy growing with each passing moment.

Billy and his friend exchanged a nervous glance, their fear growing stronger with each passing second.

Batman's expression was solemn, his jaw clenching as he listened to the Joker's laughter.

"Let's do this," he said, his voice firm. "We need to be quick and we need to be quiet."

Billy and his friend nodded, their expressions filled with determination. They were ready to do anything to help.

Batman's expression was serious, his mind focused on the task at hand.

"We need to be careful," he said, his voice low. "The Infinity Gauntlet is powerful, and we don't know what the Joker is capable of with it."

Billy and his friend nodded, their eyes fixed on Batman. They understood the gravity of the situation, and the weight of the consequences if they failed.

"We won't let you down," Billy said, his voice firm.

Batman's expression softened for a moment, his respect for the boy's bravery growing.

"I know you won't," he said, his voice uncharacteristically gentle.

Billy and his friend exchanged a determined glance, their hearts pounding with both fear and excitement.

"Let's do this," Billy said, his voice full of determination.

Batman nodded, his expression serious.

"Stay close and follow me," he said. "be real quiet."

Billy and his friend nodded, their eyes fixed on Batman. They followed him as he made his way toward the shadowy figures of the Joker and Darkseid.

Batman's eyes narrowed as he saw the Joker and Darkseid, their eerie figures sending chills down his spine. He motioned for Billy and his friend to stay back, signalling them to wait.

Billy, however, couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation at the sight of these iconic villains. He couldn't resist the urge to nudge his friend, whispering, “This is both terrifying and cool.”

Despite himself, Batman couldn't help but crack a small smile at the boy's comment.

He knew how powerful and dangerous the Joker and Darkseid were, but he had to admit, there was something exhilarating about facing such infamous villains.

Thanos stood looking around. "Somebody else is here."

Darkseid's expression was serious, his eyes scanning the area.

"I sense it too," he said, his voice filled with caution.

The Joker's laughter suddenly halted, his eyes darting around nervously.

"Something's not right," he said, his voice filled with paranoia.

Darkseid's expression hardened, his hand clenching around the Infinity Gauntlet.

"We're not alone," he said, his voice low and firm.

"Which one of you had the guts to track me down?" Darkseid asked. 

The Joker's eyes darted around, his paranoia reaching a fever pitch.

"It could be anyone," he said, his voice filled with fear.

Darkseid's expression was stern, his eyes fixed on the Joker.

"Calm down," he said firmly. "We need to be on our guard."

The Joker took a deep breath, trying to calm himself.

"You're right," he said, his voice shaky. "We can't let our guard down."

Darkseid nodded, his expression still serious.

"We'll find whoever it is," he said, his voice firm. "And we'll deal with them."

Billy stepped out of the shadows. Darkseid stood there surprised by the unexpected interruption being the child. 

"Do you need a good whipping, boy?" Darkseid questioned the boy. 

The Joker approached Billy. Darkseid stood in his way. "That's not just some random boy. That child is powered by the gods." 

The Joker's expression turned to shock, his eyes wide at the sight of Billy.

"A child?" he asked, his voice filled with surprise.

"Is this some sort of joke?" 

The Joker's expression turned from shock to anger, his eyes narrowing at the sight of Billy.

"No," he said, his voice firm. "This is no joke."

Darkseid's expression grew suspicious, his eyes darting between Billy and the Joker.

"What is going on?" he asked, his voice low.

The Joker's eyes remained locked on Billy, a maniacal grin spreading across his face.

"This boy," he said, his voice filled with malice. "He's a threat."

Darkseid's expression hardened, his grip on the Infinity Gauntlet tightening.

"What do you mean?" he asked, his voice stern.

The Joker's grin widened, his eyes fixated on Billy.

"He's powerful," he said, his voice filled with excitement. "More powerful than anyone we've ever encountered."

Darkseid's expression turned grave at the Joker's words.

"How powerful?" he asked, his voice low and cautious.

The Joker's laughter returned, his eyes still fixed on Billy.

"Extremely powerful," he said, his voice filled with madness. "The gods have blessed this child with unimaginable power."

The Joker's laughter returned, his eyes still fixed on Billy.

"Extremely powerful," he said, his voice filled with madness. "The gods have blessed this child with unimaginable power."

Darkseid gleamed at him. "Did you come here alone, boy?"

Billy swallowed hard, steeling himself under Darkseid's gaze.

"No," he said, his voice surprisingly steady. "I didn't."

Darkseid's expression hardened, his grip on the Infinity Gauntlet tightening.

"Who else is with you?" he asked, his voice low and commanding.

Billy's expression was firm, his eyes fixed on Darkseid.

"That's none of your business," he said, his voice holding firm.

Darkseid's expression darkened at Billy's defiance.

"It is my business," he said, his voice low and firm. "I demand to know who else is with you."

Billy's expression was determined, his voice unwavering.

"I won't tell you," he said, his voice resolute.

Darkseid's eyes narrowed at Billy's defiance, his patience running thin.

"You will tell me," he said, his voice harsh. "Or else."

Billy's expression didn't waver, his voice steady.

"Or else what?" he asked, his tone challenging.

Darkseid's expression hardened, his grip on theInfinity Gauntlet tightening.

"Don't test me, boy," he warned, his voice low and threatening. "You don't want to know what will happen if you don't tell me what I want to know."

Billy's expression remained unyielding, his voice firm.

"I won't tell you," he said firmly. "And there's nothing you can do to make me."

Darkseid's eyes narrowed at Billy's refusal, his anger rising with each passing moment.

"You think I can't make you talk?" he asked, his voice low and menacing. "I have ways of making you talk."

Billy's expression remained steadfast, his voice holding firm.

"You're going to try to torture me into talking?" he asked, his tone unimpressed.

Darkseid's expression darkened, his eyes filled with anger.

"If I have to," he said, his voice cold and ominous.

"You will feel the Omega Force." Darkseid said with a cold smile. 

Billy's expression hardened at Darkseid's words, his eyes narrowing.

"I'm not afraid of you," he said, his voice holding strong despite the fear he was feeling inside.

Darkseid's expression turned to surprise, his eyes widening at the boy's bravery.

"You're not afraid of me?" he asked, his voice a mix of disbelief and admiration.

Billy shook his head, his expression resolute.

"No," he said firmly. "I'm not."

Darkseid's expression was skeptical, his eyes studying the boy closely.

"You're very brave," he said, his voice low. "But bravery will only get you so far."

Billy's expression didn't waver, his voice steady.

"I know," he said simply.

Darkseid's expression remained serious, his hand still clenched around the Infinity Gauntlet.

"But you still won't tell me who else is with you?" he asked, his voice stern.

Billy shook his head again, his expression firm.

"No," he said simply. "I won't."

Darkseid's expression darkened at Billy's defiance, his patience reaching its limit.

"You're making a mistake, boy," he warned, his voice low and ominous. "You should be scared."

Despite himself, Billy felt a shiver of fear run down his spine at Darkseid's words. But he refused to show it, his expression remaining determined.

"I'm not afraid of you," he said again, his voice a bit less steady this time.

Darkseid's lips curled into a cold smile at Billy's response.

"You should be," he said, his voice low and dangerous.

Billy swallowed hard, his fear starting to show on his face. But he refused to back down, his expression still defiant.

Darkseid took a step closer to Billy, towering over him.

"You're just a child," he said, his voice laced with menace. "You're no match for me."

Billy's heart raced as Darkseid stepped closer, his fear rising. But he held firm, his voice still steady.

"I'm not weak," he said, his voice holding firm despite the fear he was feeling.

Billy's expression darkened at Darkseid's words, his determination growing.

"I'm not nothing," he said firmly. "I'm strong."

Darkseid's expression turned to mockery, his voice filled with derision.

"You're strong?" he asked, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "You don't even look strong."

Billy's expression hardened at Darkseid's mockery, his determination strengthening.

"Looks can be deceiving," he said simply, his voice holding firm.

Darkseid's mocking expression faltered for a moment, his curiosity piqued by Billy's words.

"Oh? And how so?" he asked, his voice curious but still condescending.

Billy looked up at Darkseid, his eyes defiant.

"Just because I'm a kid doesn't mean I'm weak," he said firmly. "I've faced things that would make you scream scared."

Darkseid's expression darkened at Billy's words, his mockery replaced by anger.

"You're a child," he repeated, his voice harsh. "You think you know fear?"

Billy's expression hardened at Darkseid's anger, his determination unyielding.

"I know more about fear than you could ever imagine," he said, his voice low but firm.

Darkseid's expression turned to shock, his eyes widening in surprise.

"You've experienced true fear?" he asked, his voice a mix of disbelief and curiosity.

Billy's expression was solemn, his voice quiet.

"More than you know," he said simply.

"I am Darkseid, ruler of Apokolips. I will not be threatened. I have the Infinity Gauntlet. You will not survive here."

Despite the fear he was feeling, Billy's expression remained resolute.

"I'm not here to threaten you," he said firmly. "And I think you underestimate me."

Darkseid left the warehouse and walked down a long corridor. His expression was still shocked and amused at the same time. He reached a large throne room and stopped at the entrance.

A figure approached him from the shadows.

"Aren’t you afraid?" the figure asked.

"Have you ever felt fear?"

Darkseid's expression changed again, this time to one of disgust and annoyance.

"What are you talking about?"

The figure stepped out of the shadows, revealing himself to be the Joker.

"The child, you're not at all worried about him?" he asked, his voice filled with curiosity.

"No...not one bit." Darkseid assured him. 

The Joker's expression turned to amusement, his laugh filling the air.

"You're not scared? Not even a little?" he asked, his voice teasing.

"I don't know what fear consists of, nor do I understand what it is." Darkseid said dismissively. 

The Joker's expression grew even more amused, a smirk spreading across his face.

"You don't know what fear is?" he repeated, his voice filled with mocking disbelief.

Darkseid's expression hardened again, his patience wearing thin.

"I don't have time for this," he said firmly. "I have more important things to worry about."

11

Lois looked over at her fiancé, Bruce. He lay in a unconscious state. 

She'd been concerned about him, and still was praying that he would recover from his previous stroke. 

The medical help was slowly bringing him to full strength. While he struggled to maintain in his right mind. 

Bruce teetered between two realms of reality and consciousness. 

Lois sat by Bruce's bedside, her hand holding his tightly. She watched him closely, her eyes filled with concern. Despite the doctors' reassurances, she couldn't help but worry.

Bruce's eyes flickered open, and he struggled to focus on his surroundings.

"Lois?" he managed to croak out, his voice weak and raspy.

Lois's expression brightened at the sound of his voice, and she leaned closer to him.

"Bruce, you're awake," she said softly, her grip on his hand tightening.

Bruce's eyes struggled to focus on her face, and he tried to sit up, but found himself too weak.

"What...happened?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Lois gently placed a hand on his chest, urging him to lie back down.

"You had a stroke," she said quietly. "You've been unconscious for a few weeks now."

"Oh my....weeks?" Bruce asked. "What about, Batman? Tim has been under the suit." 

Lois nodded, her hand still holding Bruce's.

"Yes, Tim has taken over for the time being," she said. "But don't worry about that right now. You just need to focus on getting well."

"No Lois, we've got to get out of here. They are going to try to kill me." Bruce pleaded. 

Lois's eyes widened at his words, her expression turning to one of concern and disbelief.

"What are you talking about? Who's trying to kill you?" she asked, her voice filled with worry.

"Have you ever heard of Darkseid?" Bruce asked. 

Lois's expression turned to one of recognition, and she nodded.

"Of course, everyone knows who Darkseid is," she said, her voice cautious. "But what does he have to do with anything?"

"He is working with Thanos and he is trying to kill me. To prevent me from being in the future."

Lois's expression turned even more concerned, her grip on Bruce's hand tightening.

"Why would he want to kill you? That doesn't make sense," she said, her voice filled with worry.

Bruce's expression grew more determined, his voice growing firmer now.

"I don't have time to explain it all, but trust me. I know what I'm talking about," he said, his eyes locked on hers.

Lois's expression turned conflicted, torn between trusting him and not understanding what he was saying.

"But...Bruce, this sounds crazy," she said, her voice filled with doubt.

Lois watched as Bruce summoned the doctor, her mind still filled with confusion and worry.

A moment later, Dr. Allen entered the room.

"You wanted to see me?" he asked, his expression concerned.

"I've got to go Doc." Bruce said. 

Dr. Allen looked surprised and immediately began to protest.

"What? Go? You can't go anywhere," he said, his voice stern. "You need to stay here and recover."

"I wish that was possible, but I don't think I can do that." Bruce argued with the doctor.

Dr. Allen sighed, his expression filled with frustration.

"Bruce, you're in no condition to go anywhere," he said, his voice firm. "You just had a stroke. You need time to recover."

Bruce sighed, his expression still determined.

"I know, I know," he said, his voice still weak. "But this is important. I can't just lay here."

Dr. Allen's expression grew stern, his voice firmer now.

"You have no choice," he said firmly. "You need to rest and recover. Going anywhere in your current state is too dangerous."

Bruce's expression turned to frustration, his determination not wavering.

"I can't just sit here and do nothing," he said, his voice growing stronger with each word.

Dr. Allen sighed again, his expression showing growing frustration.

"You're not thinking clearly," he said, his tone firm. "You need to calm down and rest."

Bruce's expression turned defiant, his voice filling with determination.

"I am thinking clearly," he said, his voice a bit stronger now. "I know what needs to be done. I can do this."

Dr. Allen's expression turned stern, his voice authoritative.

"No, you can't," he said firmly. "You're in no condition to do anything. You need to stay here and rest."

Bruce's expression turned to anger, his voice firmer now.

"I won't stay here and rest while Darkseid and Thanos are trying to kill me," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Dr. Allen sighed, his expression still frustrated.

"Bruce, you're making no sense," he said, his voice growing stern. "You're in no condition to fight anyone."

Bruce's expression remained determined, his expression stubborn.

"I'm not asking permission," he said, his voice firm. "I'm telling you. I'm getting out of here one way or another."

Dr. Allen's expression turned to annoyance, his patience wearing thin.

"You're being stubborn, Bruce," he said, his voice stern. "You need to listen to reason."

Bruce's expression remained resolute, his eyes fixed on the doctor.

"I am listening to reason," he said firmly. "But my reason is telling me not to sit here and wait for someone to kill me."

Dr. Allen sighed, his expression turning to one of exhaustion.

"Bruce, your reason is being clouded by your fear," he said, his voice filled with frustration. "You need to be rational."

Bruce's expression turned to anger, his voice firmer now.

"My reason is not clouded by fear," he said, his temper rising. "It's fueled by common sense."

Dr. Allen's expression remained stern, his voice firm.

"No, it's not," he said, his tone firm. "You're letting your fear drive you to make impulsive decisions."

Bruce's expression hardened, his voice growing stronger with each word.

"It's not impulse," he said, his voice filled with determination. "It's survival."

Dr. Allen's expression remained stern, his voice resolute.

"Bruce, you're not thinking clearly," he said, his tone firm. "You need to slow down and think carefully about this."

Bruce's expression turned to anger, his voice filled with frustration.

"I am thinking clearly," he said firmly. "And every second I waste staying here is more time for them to come after me."

Dr. Allen's expression softened slightly, his voice turning more understanding.

"Bruce, I understand how you feel," he said, his tone calmer now. "But you need to think about long-term consequences."

"Nobody lives forever." Bruce tried to reason. 

Dr. Allen's expression remained serious, but his voice held a hint of sympathy.

"I understand that," he said, his tone understanding. "But you also have people who care about you, who need you."

Bruce's expression softened slightly, his determination wavering for a moment.

"I know," he said, his voice quieter now. "But they'll be in more danger if I don’t stop Darkseid and Thanos."

Dr. Allen's expression grew conflicted, his voice filled with concern.

"I get that, but you're in no condition to do anything right now," he said, his tone firmer again. "You need to focus on recovering so you can protect them adequately."

Bruce sighed, his expression turning conflicted.

"But every second I waste here is another second they're in danger," he said, his voice filled with frustration.

Dr. Allen's expression softened, his voice understanding but firm.

"I understand your concern," he said, his tone calmer again. "But you won't be able to help anyone if you're still sick. You need to rest and recover so you can be strong enough to protect them."

Bruce's expression turned torn, his resolve wavering.

"But what if I don't have time?" he asked, his voice low.

Dr. Allen's expression turned understanding again, his voice gentle.

"You do have time," he said, his tone reassuring. "You just need to be patient and give yourself the time you need to heal."

Bruce sighed, his expression conflicted.

"But what if they come after me before I'm fully recovered?" he asked, his voice filled with worry.

Dr. Allen's expression softened even more, his voice understanding.

"I can't promise that they won't," he said, his tone gentler now. "But your strength is growing each day. The more you rest and recover, the better your chances are at defending yourself."

Bruce sighed again, his expression conflicted but more resigned now.

"I know," he said, his voice softer. "But it's hard to just lay here and do nothing."

"Tim came back to Gotham City to help you." Lois assured him. 

Lois's words seemed to calm Bruce somewhat, and his expression softened.

"Tim's here?" he asked, his voice filled with relief.

"Yes...he's out there working tonight." 

Bruce's expression was filled with gratitude, his mind at ease with the knowledge that Tim was taking care of things.

"Good," he said, his voice calmer now. "I'm glad he's here."

Tim Drake was trying to get the job done, but they had Billy. While he was sneaking around them. 

"Who was it that you came here with, boy?" Darkseid asked again. 

Despite the situation, Billy remained calm and defiant.

"Why do you want to know who I came here with?" he asked, his voice holding a hint of sass.

Darkseid's expression turned unamused, his voice filled with annoyance.

"Because I don't like not knowing things," he said firmly. "Now, answer my question."

Billy's expression remained defiant, his voice holding firm.

"And if I don't?" he asked, a hint of a challenge in his tone.

"Then I will just find out on my own." Despite the threat in Darkseid's voice, Billy remained calm.

"You can try," he said, his voice holding a hint of confidence.

Darkseid's expression turned annoyed, his voice growing more firm.

"You're very mouthy for someone in a dangerous situation," he said.

Billy shrugged, his expression still defiant.

"I'm just not afraid of you," he said simply.

Ra's al Ghul exits the shadowy area. "I knew there was a powerful influence within the city. I was unable to access the power or connect to my magic. That led me here to this warehouse." 

Darkseid's attention shifted to Ra's, and his expression turned curious.

"You felt something here?" he asked.

Ra's nodded, his expression serious.

"Yes," he said. "I sensed a very powerful energy in this area. It appears that energy is coming from that Gauntlet." 

Darkseid's expression turned serious as he looked at the Infinity Gauntlet.

"You're right," he said, his voice filled with realization. "The Infinity Gauntlet is giving off a massive amount of power."

Ra's nodded, his expression solemn.

"It's not only the power of the Infinity Gauntlet," he said. "There's more to this power. Something deeper."

Darkseid's expression turned skeptical, his voice filled with doubt.

"What do you mean?" he asked, his tone cautious.

Ra's looked around the warehouse, his eyes scanning the area.

"There is a force here. The Infinity Gauntlet is just a tool, a conduit for that force. But the force itself is something much more powerful and ancient than the gauntlet itself."

He looked at Batson with curiosity and then back over to Thanos and Darkseid. 

Darkseid and Thanos exchanged a look, their expressions filled with realization.

"You're right," Thanos said, his voice filled with both awe and concern. "The Infinity Gauntlet is indeed just a conduit."

Darkseid nodded, his expression growing more solemn.

"The Gauntlet is powerful, but it's nothing compared to the true source of power we're dealing with here."

They all fell silent, their minds trying to comprehend the magnitude of the power they were dealing with.

Billy watched them quietly, his expression calm but also filled with a hint of pride.

Ra's looked at Billy, his expression filled with curiosity.

"Who is this boy?" he asked, his voice soft.

Darkseid and Thanos looked at Billy, their expressions still filled with suspicion.

"We don't know," Darkseid said, his voice cautious. "He arrived here without explanation."

"There's a source of energy radiating off the kid." Ra's said plainly. 

Darkseid and Thanos's expressions turned shocked, their eyes widening in surprise.

"Really?" Thanos asked, his voice filled with disbelief. "The boy has power?"

Ra's nodded, his expression serious.

"Yes," he said. "The energy is coming from the boy. It's strong and strange, unlike anything I've ever felt before."

Darkseid and Thanos exchanged a look, their eyes locked on Billy.

"This boy must be more than meets the eye," Thanos said quietly.

Ra's nodded, his expression still serious.

"There is something special about him," he said, his voice filled with curiosity. "We should find out more about him."

Darkseid's expression turned thoughtful, his mind racing with ideas.

"Perhaps he could be of use to us," he said, his voice filled with determination. "We can use his power to our advantage."

Thanos nodded, his expression filled with agreement.

"Yes, we can use the boy to our advantage," he said, his voice filled with excitement. "Imagine what we could do with that kind of power."

Ra's nodded as well, his expression now filled with agreement.

"But we need to be careful," he said, his voice cautioning. "This kind of power is incredibly dangerous."

Darkseid's expression turned serious at Ra's words.

"You're right," he said, his voice filled with caution. "We can't afford to underestimate this power."

Thanos nodded in agreement, his expression filled with determination.

"We need to tread carefully," he said, his voice serious. "But the potential rewards are worth the risk."color?

Ra's nod in agreement, his expression still stern.

"We can't let greed blind us," he said, his voice firm. "We need to be smart about this."

Darkseid's expression turned determined, his mind set on the plan.

"We won't let greed get in the way," he said firmly. "We'll make calculated moves and control the situation."

Thanos's expression turned confident, his voice filled with determination.

"Exactly," he said, his tone certain. "We'll take things slow, and we'll make sure everything goes according to plan."

Ra's nodded, his expression still cautious.

"We need to be cautious about this," he repeated, his voice warning. "We can't risk underestimating the boy's power or overestimating our own strength."

Thanos's expression turned determined, his conviction clear.

"We won't let emotions cloud our judgement," he said, his words firm. "We'll stay focused on the end goal and make sure we don't make any hasty decisions."

Ra's nodded again, his expression still cautious but calmer now.

"We need to have a clear plan," he said, his voice firm. "We need to know what we're doing and how we're going to do it."

Darkseid's expression turned thoughtful, his mind working out a plan.

"We should focus on understanding the boy's power and figure out how we can use it to our advantage," he said, his voice filled with strategizing.

Thanos nodded, his expression filled with agreement.

"Yes, we need to understand his abilities and how we can control them," he said, his voice firm. "We can't afford to ignore this opportunity."

Ra's nodded, his expression still cautious but now more thoughtful.

"But we can't be reckless," he said, his voice reminding them. "We need to be smart about this and play to our strengths."

Billy heard how they planned on using him. So did Batman, who was hidden behind the walls. 

"You can't harvest these powers." Billy shook his head. 

The group turned to face Billy, their eyes locked on him.

"What did you say?" Darkseid asked, his expression filled with surprise.

Billy's expression was calm but firm.

"You can't use me," he said, his voice steady. "I won't let you."

The Infinity Gauntlet glowing as it manufactured power to Darkseid.

Darkseid's expression turned determined as he felt the power of the Infinity Gauntlet surging through him.

"You don't have a choice," he said firmly. "We will use you whether you like it or not."

Billy's expression remained resolute, his eyes never leaving Darkseid.

"You can try," he said, his voice filled with confidence. "But I won't make it easy for you."

Darkseid's expression turned smug, his confidence growing.

"You're just a child," he said, his voice filled with arrogant condescension. "You can't possibly stop me."

Billy's expression remained unflinching, his eyes locked on Darkseid.

"Don't underestimate me," he said, his voice firm. "I'm not as weak as you think."

The Joker's laughter filled the room, his eyes fixed on Billy.

"That's adorable," he said, his voice filled with amusement. "You really think you can stop us?"

Billy's expression remained composed, his eyes still locked on Darkseid.

"I know I can," he said simply. "I have the power to stop all of you if I want to."

Billy's expression remained composed, his eyes still locked on Darkseid.

"I know I can," he said simply. "I have the power to stop all of you if I want to."

The Joker's laughter continued, his smile never leaving his face.

"Oh, really?" he asked, his voice still filled with amusement. "And how do you plan on doing that, kiddo?"

Billy's expression turned determined, his eyes holding a hint of challenge.

"You'll see," he said simply. "Just watch."

The Joker's laughter continued, his voice filled with mockery.

"Oh boy, I can't wait to see what you've got up your sleeve, kid," he said, still grinning.

Batman moved around the corner unseen. He knew that he had to make a move. Tim knew Bruce would do something when the opportunity provided him to do so. The chance was there for the taking. The group's attention was still focused on Billy, completely unaware of Batman's presence.

Batman quietly made his way closer, hidden in the shadows.

The Joker spoke to Billy, his voice filled with mockery.

"You think you can stand up to the likes of us?" he asked, his smile wider. "You're just a child."

Billy's expression remained determined, his eyes never leaving the Joker's.

"You're underestimating me again," he said firmly. "I've faced threats stronger than you before."

The Joker's laughter grew louder, his eyes narrowing in amusement.

"And who might these threats be?" he asked, his tone mocking. "The Easter Bunny? Santa's elves?"

Billy's expression remained steady, his voice firm.

"I don't expect you to understand," he said simply. "But just know that I've taken down gods before."

The Joker's laughter subsided at that, his expression turning to one of surprise.

"You've taken down gods?" he asked, his tone slightly less mocking now. "Now that's a tall tale."

Billy's expression remained serious, his eyes holding a hint of confidence.

"It's the truth," he said simply. "I've fought and defeated beings far more powerful than anyone in this room."

The group's expression turned stunned, their eyes locked on Billy.

"You've defeated gods?" Thanos asked, his voice filled with disbelief.

Billy's expression remained calm, his eyes fixed on Thanos's.

"Yes, I have," he said, answering his question simply.

The group looked completely shocked, their disbelief clear in their eyes.

"You...you've really defeated gods?" Darkseid asked, his voice filled with disbelief.

Billy nodded, his expression still remaining calm and confident.

"Yes, I have," he repeated.

The group exchanged shocked and disbelieving looks, their minds struggling to process what they were hearing.

"You're serious?" Ra's asked, his voice filled with surprise.

Billy nodded once more, his expression still steady.

"I'm completely serious," he said softly. "I've fought and defeated some of the most powerful beings in the universe."

The group remained silent for a moment, their disbelief still evident on their faces.

"This can't be possible," Thanos said, his voice still filled with doubt.

Billy's expression remained steady, his eyes locked on Thanos's.

"It's possible," he said, his voice filled with determination. "And I'm living proof."

The group exchanged looks again, each silently considering Billy's words.

"Can you prove it?" the Joker asked, his voice filling the silence.

Billy's expression turned thoughtful for a moment, considering the question.

"I suppose I could," he said, his voice softer now. "But it won't be easy."

The group's attention turned back to Billy, their interest piqued.

"What do you mean?" Darkseid asked, his voice filled with curiosity.

Billy's expression grew thoughtful, his mind working out a plan.

"It means I need to call in a little help," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

The group's expressions turned curious, their attention fully on Billy now.

"Help from who?" Ra's asked, his voice filled with interest.

Billy's expression turned solemn, his mind turning to his thoughts.

"From my friends," he said quietly. "They can help me prove what I'm saying is true."

Batman froze. He was ready to make his next move. Billy's words stopped him in his tracks.

The group's expressions turned skeptical again, their disbelief evident.

"Friends?" Darkseid asked, his voice filled with disdain. "You think your little friends can help you?"

Billy's expression turned determined, his eyes locked on Darkseid's.

"They're not just friends," he said firmly. "They're family. And they're more powerful than you could ever imagine."

The group's expressions turned skeptical once again, their doubt clear.

"Is that so?" the Joker asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "You expect us to believe that your little friends are some kind of superheroes?"

Billy's expression stayed steady, his gaze still locked on the Joker.

"Yes," he said simply. "They're heroes. They fight for justice and protect the innocent."

The group's expressions turned even more skeptical, their doubt growing.

"And you think these so-called heroes can really help you?" Darkseid asked, his tone mocking.

Billy's expression remained firm, his resolve unwavering.

"I know they can help me," he said, his voice filled with confidence. "They're my family, and they won't let anything happen to me."

The group exchanged skeptical looks again, their doubt growing stronger.

"You're really serious about this, huh?" the Joker asked, his voice filled with a mix of disbelief and amusement.

12

Billy's expression hardened, his patience wearing thin.

"Enough with the questions," he said firmly. "I've answered all your questions, and I've told you the truth. Now can we move on?"

The group's expressions turned stunned at Billy's sudden assertiveness.

"Well, well, look who's feeling brave," the Joker teased, his voice filled with mocking amusement.

Billy's expression remained firm, his eyes locked on the Joker.

"I'm not afraid of you," he said, his voice steady. "Or any of you."

Tim threw a smoke bomb in on the ambassadors of evil huddled together discussing Billy. 

The smoke filled the warehouse in an instant, engulfing the group in a cloud of thick smoke.

"What the hell?" the Joker cried out, coughing and waving a hand through the smoke.

The group's surprised and annoyed voices filled the air as they struggled to see through the smoke.

"What's going on?" Darkseid demanded, his voice hoarse from the smoke. 

The smoke began to clear slowly, the room coming back into view.

"What happened?" Ra's asked, shielding his face from the lingering smoke.

The group began to regain their bearings, their eyesight adjusting to the fading smoke.

"Is anyone hurt?" Thanos asked, his voice still raspy from the smoke.

The group looked around the room, their eyes searching for Billy.

"No," the Joker said, his voice still raspy. "He's gone."

Darkseid's expression grew more serious, his eyes narrowing.

"We need to find him," he said firmly. "He can't be allowed to escape."

Tim ran out of the warehouse with Billy, his heart racing as he tried to put as much distance as possible between themselves and the group.

"Are you okay?" he asked Billy, his voice urgent but also concerned.

Tim had snatched Billy away under the smoked out room, and he was racing away, knowing that he had no answers for Darkseid's crew. Billy on the other hand wanted to fight them. 

Billy nodded, his own breath coming in short gasps.

"I'm fine," he said between breaths. "But we need to keep moving."

Tim nodded in agreement, his eyes scanning the area for any sign of pursuit.

"Agreed," he said, his voice still on edge. "We can't let them catch us."

Billy looked around as they ran, his eyes scanning the surroundings.

"We need a place to hide," he said, his voice firm. "Somewhere they won't think to look."

Tim nodded, his mind working out a plan.

"I know a place," he said, his voice growing more confident. "Follow me."

Billy nodded, trusting Tim's judgment.

"Lead the way," he said, his voice steady but determined.

Tim nodded, leading the way down a dimly lit alleyway.

"Stay close," he said, his voice low. "We don't want to lose each other in the dark."

Billy stayed close to Tim as they ran down the alleyway, their footsteps echoing loudly in the quiet night.

"How much farther?" he asked, his voice hushed but urgent.

Tim looked around, his eyes scanning the alleyway for the familiar landmark.

"Not much further," he said, his voice reassuring. "Just a few more turns."

Billy's expression remained focused, every sense on alert for any signs of pursuit.

"Hurry," he urged, his voice growing more anxious.

Tim nodded, picking up the pace.

"We're almost there," he said, a hint of urgency in his voice. "Just a bit more."

They ran the rest of the way in silence, finally reaching a dead-end alleyway.

"Here," Tim said, gesturing to a nearby dumpster. "We can hide behind this."

They could hear someone else breathing behind them. "Who are you boys running from?" The deep raspy voice asked. 

"Who are you?" Tim asked. 

"I'm Logan." The raspy voice answered. 

"We're running from Darkseid."Billy said.

Tim nodded, his expression turned serious.

"I know," he said, his voice firm. "But we have to stay quiet and stay hidden. They won't think to look here."

Logan's eyes narrowed, his expression turning curious.

"Darkseid, huh?" he said, his voice gruff. "That guy's a pain in the ass."

Tim and Billy exchanged a surprised glance, not expecting Logan to be familiar with Darkseid.

"You know him?" Tim asked, his voice slightly bewildered.

Logan nodded, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

"Unfortunately," he said, his voice dry. "I've crossed paths with him a few times. Never pleasant."

"What's your deal in Gotham City, Logan?" Tim asked. 

Logan leaned casually against the wall, his expression nonchalant.

"Just passing through," he said, his voice gruff. "But I'm always willing to lend a hand to a couple of boys in need."

Tim and Billy exchanged another glance, their eyes filled with relief.

"We appreciate that," Tim said, his voice grateful. "We really need to hide from Darkseid and his crew."

"Are you ready for what he'll do if he finds you, Batman?" Logan inquired. 

Tim's expression turned serious, his mind racing with the implications of that scenario.

"Truthfully, I'm not," he said, his voice filled with honesty. "But we'll figure something out. We always do."

Logan smirked at that, his eyes never leaving Tim's face.

"You're a real fighter, huh?" he said, his voice filled with respect. "I can respect that."

Tim nodded, his expression determined.

"I'll do whatever it takes to keep Billy safe," he said, his voice firm. "I won't let Darkseid touch him."

"Why does Darkseid want the child?"

Tim's expression turned thoughtful, his mind trying to figure out why Darkseid would want Billy.

"I'm not entirely sure," he said honestly. "But I have a feeling it has something to do with his powers."

Logan's expression turned curious, his eyes locked on Tim again.

"Powers, huh?" he said, his voice intrigued. "The boy has powers?"

Tim's expression turned firm, his eyes never leaving Logan's.

"He's more powerful than you could imagine," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "And Darkseid knows it."

"Are you a mutant, boy?" Logan inquired. 

Tim's expression turned confused, his mind trying to figure out what that had to do with the current situation.

"Me?" he asked, his voice filled with confusion. "A mutant?"

"Not you, Batman." Logan said. "The child." 

Tim's expression changed to surprise, turning to look at Billy.

"You're a mutant?" he asked incredulously.

Billy hesitated for a moment before shaking his head. 

"No...my powers comes from the gods."

Logan's expression turned skeptical, his eyes fixed on Billy.

"The gods, huh?" he said, his voice doubtful. "And what gods would those be?"

Billy's expression turned serious, his eyes holding a hint of determination.

"Solomon, Hercules, Achilles, Zeus, Atlas, and Mercury."

Logan's expression turned surprised, his eyes wide with surprise.

"That's quite a list," he said, his voice filled with awe. "You have the blessings of some of the most powerful gods out there."

Billy nodded, his expression filled with determination.

"They chose me for a reason," he said, his voice firm. "They gave me these powers because they believe I can handle them."

Logan's expression turned impressed, his eyes still fixed on Billy.

"You're a pretty confident kid, huh?" he said, his tone filled with respect.

Billy's expression remained steady, his eyes locked on Logan's.

"I have to be," he said firmly. "If I doubt myself, Darkseid will win."

Logan's expression turned thoughtful, his mind working out the situation.

"You're probably right," he said, his voice contemplative. "But confidence alone won't be enough to take down Darkseid."

Billy's expression turned serious, his eyes never leaving Logan's.

"I know," he said firmly. "But I have something more than confidence. I have faith."

Logan's expression turned curious again, his eyes fixed on Billy.

"Faith?" he asked, his voice filled with interest. "In what?"

Billy's expression turned resolute, his voice filled with conviction.

"In myself," he said simply. "As well as in my gods who empower me."

Logan's expression turned surprised again, his eyes wide with wonder.

"Wow," he said, his voice filled with awe. "That's some serious faith you got there, kid."

Billy's expression remained steady, his eyes never leaving Logan's.

"It's not blind faith," he said firmly. "I know what I'm capable of."

Thanos was the first to emerge from the warehouse. The Infinity Gauntlet glowing on his hand. 

"That's not Darkseid." Logan growled. 

Tim and Logan's eyes locked, their expressions turning serious.

"It's worse," Tim said urgently. "That's Thanos."

Logan's expression turned more serious, his eyes fixed on Thanos.

"Thanos?" he repeated, his voice filled with surprise. "The Mad Titan?"

Tim's expression remained firm, his eyes locked on Thanos.

"Yeah," he said urgently. "He's even more dangerous than Darkseid, with his Gauntlet."

Logan's expression turned calculating, his mind racing with the new threat.

"Then we've got a real problem," he said, his voice filled with concern.

Tim's expression grew more worried, his eyes watching Infinity Gauntlet.

"He's got the Infinity Gauntlet." he said, his voice wary.

Logan's expression turned grim, his eyes focused on the Infinity Gauntlet.

"That's not good..." he said, his voice cautious.

Tim's eyes never wavered, his mind racing with possible outcomes.

"We need to get out of here," he said urgently.

Logan's expression turned determined, his eyes fixed on Tim.

"You're right," he said firmly. "Let's move."

Tim nodded firmly, his mind racing with an escape plan.

"Follow me," he said urgently.

Logan nodded, ready to follow Tim's lead.

"Lead the way," he said, his voice filled with resolve.

Tim led the way, his mind working out the best route to get them to safety.

"We need to be quick and stealthy," he said, his voice hushed but alert.

Logan followed closely behind, his eyes scanning the area for any danger.

"I'll take point," he said, his voice low. "I can take out anyone that gets in our way."

Tim nodded his agreement, trusting Logan's experience.

"Alright," he said. "But let's try not to draw attention to ourselves."

They moved quietly through the alleyways, moving quickly but carefully.

"Almost there," Tim said, his voice hushed but hopeful.

Logan followed closely behind, his eyes constantly scanning the area.

"Keep moving," he said, his voice low. "We're almost out of here."

Tim's eyes darted around, his mind working out the final details of their escape route.

"Just a few more turns," he said, his voice still hushed.

Logan nodded his agreement, his eyes still focused on their surroundings.

"I've got your back," he said, his voice firm. "Let's get outta here."

They turned down a final alleyway, finally reaching their destination.

"Here we are," Tim said, relief evident in his voice.

Logan looked around the alleyway, his eyes scanning their surroundings.

"This is it?" he asked, his voice skeptical.

Tim nodded, his expression filled with confidence.

"This is our best chance to lose them."

"What is Harley's Hideout?" Wolverine asked. 

Tim turned to look at Logan, his expression filled with surprise.

"How do you know about Harley's Hideout?"

Logan pointed to a sign above the cellar door. 

Tim's eyes followed Logan's finger, his expression turning surprised.

"Oh," he said, realization dawning on him. "I guess that makes sense."

"Are we going in or what?" Wolverine asked. 

Tim's expression turned determined, his mind made up.

"We're going in," he said firmly, his voice leaving no room for argument.

Logan nodded, his expression serious.

"Alright," he said. "Let's go."

They descended down the stairs, entering Harley's hideout.

"Stay close," Tim said, his voice still hushed. "And be quiet."

Logan followed closely behind, his eyes taking in their surroundings.

"Don't worry," he said, his voice low. "I've got your back."

They moved quietly through the hideout, their senses on high alert.

"We need to find a place to hide," Tim said, his voice hushed but urgent.

Lois answered when Tim called Bruce. He took the phone quickly, relieved to hear from Tim.

"Tim?" he asked, his voice filled with concern.

Tim's expression turned relieved, his mind filled with relief.

"Bruce, we're okay," he said into the phone. "We found a place to hide."

Batman's expression turned relieved as well, his mind at ease.

"Good," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. "I'm glad you're safe."

"We're dealing with something unbelievably powerful. I don't know what to do against Darkseid and Thanos."

Bruce's expression turned serious, his mind working through the situation.

"You don't need to do anything against them," he said, his voice firm. "Just stay hidden and stay safe."

Tim's expression turned frustrated, his mind not wanting to sit idle.

"But we can't just sit here and do nothing," he said, his voice filled with determination. "We have to do something. They're teamed up with the the Joker and Ra's al Ghul.

Bruce's expression turned shocked, his mind processing the news.

"The Joker and Ra's too?" he asked, his voice filled with surprise.

"They're planning on taking over the world." Tim explained. 

Batman's expression turned more serious, his mind filled with urgency.

"Then you need to stay hidden and stay safe," he said adamantly. "I'll take care of things."

Bruce got up out of the hospital bed. Lois looked troubled. 

Tim was about to argue, but Bruce cut him off.

"I need you to trust me, Tim," he said firmly. "Just stay hidden and stay safe."

Tim's expression turned conflicted, his mind torn between wanting to help and knowing Batman was right.

"Is Jason there with you, Tim." 

Tim's expression turned confused, his mind trying to figure out if he was hearing things.

"Uh, no," he said into the phone. "Why do you ask?"

"Because I know he's not a patient one, but you, you're smarter than that." Bruce said firmly. 

Tim's expression turned understanding, his mind realizing what Batman was saying.

"You're saying Jason would charge headfirst into danger," he said.

"We both know that, Tim." Bruce chuckled. 

Tim's expression turned slightly amused, his mind picturing Jason doing just that.

"Yeah, he would," he admitted.

"He's out there...you can bet that. If you see the Red Hood it's him. He went out on his own." Batman explained. 

Tim's expression turned worried, his mind now picturing Jason in danger.

"He's going to get himself killed," he said, his voice filled with concern.

Batman nodded.

"You're probably right," he said, his voice serious. "But you know Jason. He won't listen to reason."

Tim sighed, knowing how true that was.

"Yeah, I know," he said dejectedly. "He's stubborn."

Maybe Logan, Billy, and I should go search for him...what do you think? 

Batman was silent for a moment, his mind considering the suggestion.

"I think that might be a good idea," he said eventually. "But you have to be careful. Those villains are dangerous and unpredictable."

Tim's expression turned determined, his mind set on the idea.

"We'll be careful," he said firmly. "We'll find him and bring him back safely."

13

Bruce checked himself out of the hospital. Determined to stop Darkseid and Thanos from trying to conquer the world. 

Lois' eyes widened in surprise.

"You're leaving the hospital?" She asked, her voice filled with disbelief.

Bruce nodded, a determined look on his face.

"I have to do something," he said firmly. "I can't just sit here while those villains are out there."

Lois sighed, knowing there was no stopping him.

"Just be careful," she said, her voice filled with concern.

Bruce nodded again, his expression filled with determination.

"I will," he said firmly. "I'll be back as soon as possible."

With that, he left the hospital, heading out into the night. 

Lois watched him go, her heart filled with worry.

"Be safe," she murmured, her voice filled with concern.

In the streets, Batman moved quickly through the city, his mind focused on finding the villains and stopping them.

"I won't let them get away with this," he said to himself, his voice filled with determination.

He found Jason in combat with them. Nightwing was assisting him. They had Thanos in a crossfire. Caught between two buildings, Thanos was struggling against them. 

Batman arrived just in time to see Jason and Nightwing fighting against Thanos. His expression turned determined, his mind filled with anger.

"Jason," he called out, his voice stern.

Jason's head whipped around, his attention immediately turning to Batman.

"Hey, Bats," he said, still keeping his guard up against Thanos.

Batman's expression turned stern, his mind fixed on the situation at hand.

"What are you doing here?" he asked, his voice filled with concern and annoyance.

"Trying to save Gotham City, boss." Jason replied. "Did you want to wait for Superman, huh?" 

"No...he's not real." Bruce sighed. "I do wish that he could be, and especially now." Batman said sternly. 

Jason's expression turned surprised, his mind not expecting that answer.

"You're saying you wish Superman was real?" he asked, a hint of disbelief in his voice.

Batman's expression turned serious, his mind focused on the fight.

"I do," he said firmly. "But right now, we have to focus on stopping these villains."

The Infinity Gauntlet was glowing in the dark. Thanos fired a beam that hit Jason.

 Batman saw it hit him, and he saw Jason disappear into thin air. 

Batman's eyes widened in shock, his mind filled with horror.

"No," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Jason."

The Infinity Gauntlet was glowing in the dark. Thanos fired a beam that hit Jason. Batman saw it hit him, and he saw Jason disappear into thin air. 

Nightwing turned to look at Batman, his expression filled with concern.

"What just happened?" he asked, his voice filled with disbelief.

Batman's expression was still filled with shock, his mind still trying to process what just happened.

"Jason...he's gone..." he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Nightwing's expression turned horrified, his mind struggling to process the news.

"What do you mean, he's gone?" he asked, his voice filled with fear.

Batman's expression was still solemn, his mind filled with grief.

"The infinity stones...they're more powerful than I thought, he said, his voice filled with regret. "They can erase people from existence."

Nightwing's expression turned shocked, his mind struggling to understand.

"They can erase people?" he repeated, his voice filled with disbelief.

Batman's expression nodded, his mind still filled with grief.

"They have the power of reality itself," he said. "They can change reality, and even destroy it. And they can erase people from existence...as Jason just proved."

Nightwing's expression turned determined, his mind filled with anger.

"We have to stop them," he said, his voice filled with resolve. "Before they erase anyone else."

Batman's expression turned firm, his mind agreeing with Nightwing.

"You're right," he said, his voice filled with determination. "We need to stop them...and fast."

They both turned their attention back to Thanos, their minds focused on the task at hand.

"We'll take him on together," Batman said, his voice firm.

Nightwing's expression was filled with resolve, his mind ready to fight.

"Ready when you are, boss," he said, his voice filled with determination. 

Batman's expression was filled with determination, his mind focused on the fight to come.

"Alright," he said, his voice firm. "Let's do this."

The Gauntlet fired at Batman, and narrowly missing him. 

Batman's expression turned shocked, his mind filled with surprise.

"Tim, what are you doing here?" he asked, his voice firm but filled with concern.

Tim's expression was determined, his mind set on helping.

"I couldn't just sit and do nothing," he said, his voice filled with determination. "I had to help."

Batman's expression turned stern, his mind worried for Tim's safety.

"It's too dangerous," he said firmly. "You should've stayed hidden."

"We couldn't just hide, do nothing...that guy Logan was clawing the hell out of Darkseid." Tim explained. 

Batman's expression turned even more stern, his mind imagining just that.

"Logan was fighting Darkseid?" He asked, his voice filled with concern.

Tim nodded, his expression filled with confirmation.

"Yeah, he was," he said. "He was beating the crap out of him."

Batman's expression turned skeptical, his mind having trouble believing it.

"Really?" he asked. "Logan was beating Darkseid?"

Tim nodded again, his mind certain of what he saw.

"Yeah, he was," he repeated. "He was tearing him apart."

Batman's expression grew even more skeptical, his mind struggling to picture it.

"But...how? Darkseid is extremely powerful." 

As Thanos stood up, the Infinity Gauntlet glowed even brighter, illuminating the alleyway with its powerful energy.

Batman stared at Thanos, still struggling to process what he had just heard. "But...how? Darkseid is extremely powerful," he repeated.

Thanos chuckled, the sound deep and menacing. "You have no idea just how powerful he truly is."

Batman tensed, his senses on full alert. The air crackled with energy, and he could feel the power radiating from the Infinity Gauntlet.

Thanos raised his hand, the gauntlet fully activated and humming with power. Batman could see the six Infinity Stones embedded in the golden metal, each glowing with a different color.

"You see, Batman, the Infinity Stones are not just powerful artifacts," Thanos said, his voice dripping with arrogant confidence. "They are the embodiment of the fundamental forces of the universe. Reality itself bends to their will."

Batman stayed silent, his mind racing as he tried to come up with a plan.

Tim's expression was filled with worry, his mind terrified.

"Batman, what do we do now?" he asked, his voice full of fear. 

Batman's expression remained focused, his mind still trying to come up with a plan.

"We need to find a way to get that gauntlet away from him," he said, his voice firm. "It's too powerful."

Tim's expression was filled with determination, his mind determined to do anything he could.

"I'll distract him," he said, his voice filled with resolve. "You try to grab the gauntlet."

Batman reaches for something in his utility belt, but Tim knew that no gadget of his could compare to the might of the infinity stones.

Batman's expression was filled with worry, his mind realizing this fact.

"Tim, wait-" he began, trying to protest.

But Tim interrupted him, his mind set on his plan.

"No, Batman. I can do this."

Batman's expression turned more worried, his mind still trying to figure out a better solution.

"But it's too dangerous," he said firmly. "You'll get hurt."

Tim's expression was still determined, his mind not backing down.

"I'll be fine," he said. "I'll distract him long enough for you to get the gauntlet."

Batman's expression turned filled with regret, his mind torn between keeping Tim safe and taking the gauntlet away.

"But...I can't just let you risk your life like this," he said, his voice filled with concern.

Tim's expression turned more determined, his mind set on his plan.

"You have to," he said, his voice firm. "You have to take it off him."

Batman's expression was still filled with doubt, his mind still struggling with the decision.

"But what if something goes wrong?" he asked, his voice filled with worry.

Tim's expression was still resolute, his mind was made up.

"Then I'm counting on you to save me," he said firmly.

Batman's expression turned even more concerned, his mind still not comfortable with the idea.

"But what if I can't?" he asked, his voice filled with fear.

Tim's expression still determined, his mind certain of Batman's abilities.

"You will," he said, his voice confident. Because you always have."

Batman's expression was still conflicted, his mind torn between protecting Tim and using him as a distraction.

"But...what if you get hurt?" he asked, his voice filled with worry.

Tim's expression was still determined, his mind not backing down.

"Then that's a risk I'm willing to take," he said firmly.

Batman's expression was still filled with concern, his mind still conflicted.

"But...I don't want you to have to take that risk," he said, his voice filled with regret.

Tim was determined, his mind refusing to yield.

"I know you don't want me to take that risk," he said, his voice firmer than before. "But I'm doing this anyway."

Batman's expression was filled with regret, his mind still not happy with Tim's decision.

"But...I'm supposed to protect you," he said, his voice filled with guilt.

"We're here to save Gotham City, huh?" Tim said. 

Batman nodded reluctantly at that last statement.

"Then let me do my part," he said firmly and confidently.

Batman looked at Tim for a moment, his expression still filled with worry.

"I'm going to regret this," he said gruffly. 

Batman's expression turned alarmed, his mind even more worried.

"Tim, that was too close," he said, his voice filled with concern.

Tim's expression was still determined, his mind still set on his plan.

"I'll be fine, trust me," he said, his voice firm.

Batman's expression was still filled with worry, his mind not completely trusting Tim's words.

"I do trust you," he said. "But I still don't like this."

Batman sighed, his expression still filled with worry.

"You're right," he said, his voice resigned. "I did help create you."

Thanos fired another shot up at Batman. It missed him by ten feet. Tim swung down toward the Infinity Stones kicking the Gauntlet on Thanos' hand.  

Batman's eyes widened as he watched the shot miss him.

"Tim!" he called out, his voice filled with worry.

When Tim hit the ground Captain Marvel was there to pull him to safety. Batman moved forward to take his shot. 

Batman focused all his attention on the gauntlet.

"I have to get that thing off him," he said to himself, his mind focused on the task at hand.

Captain Marvel flew into Thanos. The Gauntlet was glowing powerfully. When Thanos hit the ensuing hero. Captain Marvel like Jason and Dick, vanished from this reality.

Batman's expression turned shocked, his mind frozen in disbelief.

"No..." he said, his voice filled with horror.

Tim's expression was filled with shock as well, his mind struggling to process what had just happened.

"What...what just happened?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Batman made his move toward the glowing Gauntlet. 

Batman lunged forward, charging towards Thanos. His mind focused on one thing - getting that infinity gauntlet off him.

Batman charged at Thanos, his mind focused on nothing but getting the gauntlet off him.

"You're not getting away with this," he said, his voice filled with determination.

Thanos turned his attention to Batman, his expression amused.

"You think you can stop me?" he said, his voice dripping with arrogance.

Batman's expression was filled with anger, his mind fueled by determination.

"I know I can," he said, his voice firm.

Thanos chuckled at that, his expression still amused.

"You're quite confident," he said, his voice full of arrogance. "But you're no match for me."

Darkseid walked towards Batman from the opposite side of the alleyway. 

Batman's expression turned serious, his mind trying to keep an eye on both Thanos and Darkseid.

"Two against one, huh?" he said, his voice gruff.

Thanos and Darkseid exchanged a look, their expressions filled with arrogance.

"We don't need an advantage to take you down," Darkseid said, his voice filled with confidence.

Batman's expression turned determined, his mind refusing to back down.

"You're going to try, aren't you?" he said, his voice firm.

Thanos and Darkseid chuckled at that, their expressions growing more arrogant.

"Of course," Thanos said. "And we'll succeed."

He fired another shot at Batman, but he hit the ground evading the blast. Instead Darkseid took the hit...they watched him disappear. 

Batman's expression turned surprised, his mind not expecting that.

"What...just happened?" he asked, his voice filled with disbelief.

Tim's expression was just as surprised, his mind struggling to process what he just saw.

"He just...disappeared," he said, his voice filled with shock.

As Batman and Tim stood there, dumbfounded by the sudden disappearance of Darkseid, Thanos chuckled darkly.

"Not so tough without his little buddy, are we?" he said, his voice dripping with arrogance.

Batman's expression hardened, his mind focused solely on the task at hand.

"I'm still here," he said, his voice firm.

Thanos chuckled again, his expression amused.

"Yes, you are," he said. "But you're outnumbered now."

Batman's eyes shifted between Thanos and the Infinity Gauntlet on his hand.

"I doubt you'll be laughing once I take that gauntlet away from you," he said.

Thanos's expression turned confident, his mind still underestimating Batman.

"You think you can take it from me?" he asked, his voice dripping with arrogance.

Thanos's expression was still filled with arrogance, but there was also a hint of disbelief.

"How could I do that?" he asked, his voice filled with confusion.

Batman's expression was firm, his mind determined.

"I know I can," he said definitively.

Thanos chuckled again, his expression still amused.

"You're overconfident."

Batman's expression was still firm, his mind not backing down.

"And you're underestimating me."

Thanos's expression turned slightly annoyed, his mind starting to realize that Batman could be a problem.

"We'll see about that."

Batman's expression remained firm, his mind ready to take action.

"I'm ready when you are," he said, his voice strong and confident.

Thanos's expression turned serious, his mind realizing Batman wasn't going to back down.

"Fine," he said. "Let's put your confidence to the test."

14

Batman readied himself, his mind focused on the task at hand.

"Bring it on."

Batman charged at Thanos, his mind focused on one thing - getting the gauntlet off him.

"We'll see about that," he said, his voice filled with determination.

Thanos blocked Batman's attack with ease, his mind still underestimating him.

"You're not as strong as you think you are." He said condescendingly.

Batman's expression was still determined, his mind not backing down.

"I'm as strong as I need to be to stop you.”

Thanos chuckled at that, his expression still filled with arrogance.

"Is that so?" he asked, his voice mocking.

Batman's expression remained firm, his mind refusing to back down.

"It is."

Tim had a gun that Jason had been using drawn on The Mad Titan. 

Thanos's eyes shifted to Tim, his expression turning slightly irritated.

"You again?" he asked, his voice annoyed.

Tim's expression was firm, his mind determined.

"Me again," he said, his gun still pointed at Thanos.

Thanos raised an eyebrow at Tim's gun, his mind unimpressed.

"You think that little gun can hurt me?" he asked, his voice mocking.

"We don't have to find out, but you have to cooperate with us." 

Thanos laughed at that, his mind still finding the situation amusing.

"Cooperate? With you?" he asked, his voice dripping with arrogance.

Tim's expression remained firm, his mind not backing down.

"That's right," he said, his voice sure.

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not taking Tim seriously.

"You're just a kid," he said, his voice dismissive.

Batman's eyes widened in surprise at Bane's appearance, his mind completely caught off guard.

"Bane...and Ra's al Ghul?" he said, his voice filled with disbelief.

"Thanos has granted us more power...with the Infinity Gems." Ra's al Ghul said firmly. 

Batman's expression turned grim, his mind processing the new information.

"He gave you power?" he asked, his voice filled with concern.

Bane's expression turned smug, his mind still focused on the mission.

"That he did."

Ra's al Ghul's expression was filled with confidence, his mind still focused on his next move.

"We are more powerful now than we have ever been."

Batman's expression grew even more serious, his mind realizing the danger.

"You're still no match for me," he said, his voice firm.

Bane's expression turned amused, his mind still underestimating Batman.

"Cocky, aren't we?" he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

"Confidence, big boy." Batman said sternly. 

Bane's expression grew smug, his mind still enjoying the banter.

"Oh, I like your confidence," he said teasingly.

Batman's expression remained firm, his mind ready to take action.

"I'm glad you do," he said.

Ra's al Ghul used a device that opened a portal to Batman's left-hand side. Facing Thanos. 

Batman turned his attention to the portal, his mind trying to figure out what was going on.

"What is that?" he asked, his voice filled with suspicion.

"It's a way out of the situation you're currently in." Ra's smiled. 

Batman's expression turned skeptical, his mind not sure if he could trust Ra's.

"And you just expect me to walk through it?" he asked, his voice wary.

Ra's al Ghul's expression turned condescending, his mind still thinking he held all the cards.

"You don't have much of a choice, do you?" he asked, his voice taunting.

Batman's expression remained firm, his mind not backing down.

"I always have a choice."

Ra's al Ghul's expression turned amused, his mind finding Batman's determination amusing.

"You're a stubborn one," he said, his voice filled with mild annoyance.

Batman's expression remained determined, his mind refusing to back down.

"I won't give up without a fight," he said, his voice firm.

Thanos towered above the them, knowing that held all the cards. 

Thanos's expression turned arrogance, his mind sure of his victory.

"You're outgunned, Batman," he said, his voice dripping with arrogance. "There's no way you can beat us all."

Batman's expression remained resolute, his mind refusing to accept defeat.

"I've taken down bigger threats than you, Thanos," he said, his voice confident.

Thanos's expression turned amused, his mind still enjoying the banter.

"And how did you manage that, Batman?" he asked, his voice filled with sarcasm.

Thanos's expression turned amused, his mind still enjoying the banter.

"And how did you manage that, Batman?" he asked, his voice filled with sarcasm.

Batman's expression remained firm, his mind refusing to show weakness.

"I used my wits," he said simply.

Thanos laughed at that, his mind finding the idea amusing.

"Your wits against our power? You're out of your league, Batman."

Batman's expression remained resolute, his mind not backing down.

"I'm not the one who needs the help of three villains to gain power," he replied, his voice confident.

The Joker walked out of portal beside Batman. "Bats, how are you?" 

Batman's expression turned shocked, his mind completely caught off guard.

"Joker?!" he said, his voice filled with surprise.

The Joker's expression was as crazy as ever, his mind filled with his usual antics.

"That's right, Batsy," he said, his voice filled with glee. "The Joker's in town!"

Batman's expression turned a mix of concern and annoyance, his mind still not used to the Joker's antics.

"What are you doing here, Joker?" he asked, his voice filled with frustration.

"Darkseid thought I should be here...when you die." Joker looked around, and noticed Darkseid wasn't there. 

Batman's expression turned concerned, his mind now realizing Joker was on the opposing team.

"You're working with Darkseid?" he asked, his voice filled with disbelief.

The Joker's expression turned smug, his mind enjoying the shock.

"And Ra's and Bane too," he said, his voice filled with pride. "as well as ole Thanos." 

Batman's expression turned grim, his mind processing the information.

"You've all teamed up?" he asked, his voice heavy.

The Joker's expression turned mocking, his mind enjoying the situation.

"Yep, we have," he said, his voice filled with pride. "We're unstoppable now."

"You're not alone Batman." Val-Zod said.

"Superman." Batman said. 

The Joker's expression turned surprised, his mind not expecting more heroes to show up.

"Superman?!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with surprise.

Batman nodded at his new partner. Superman stood in front of Thanos. 

Superman's expression was filled with determination, his mind focused on the threat in front of him.

"I'm here to stop you, Thanos," he said, his voice firm.

Thanos punched Superman with a shot that sent him flying across the street. He landed among the police cruisers that lined George Washington Avenue.

"I thought we erased your existence, Superman." Thanos laughed. "Well...I certainly will." 

Superman stood up, his mind still determined to fight back.

"You might have erased Clark Kent, but you can't erase Superman," he said, his voice firm.

Thanos's expression turned arrogant, his mind still underestimating Superman.

"We'll see about that," he said, his voice filled with confidence. He fired another beam from the Infinity Stones. Superman flew upwards evading the time beam that had hit the others. 

The Joker's expression turned surprised, his mind not expecting Superman to be able to dodge.

"How is he dodging that?!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.

Bane's expression turned curious, his mind wondering the same thing.

"He is moving rather quickly," he said, his voice filled with surprise.

Ra's al Ghul's expression turned intrigued, his mind impressed.

"He must be moving at the speed of light," he said, his voice filled with realization. 

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not used to his attacks being dodged.

"Well, then we'll just have to do this the hard way," he said, his voice determined.

Superman grabbed an empty police cruiser and threw it at Thanos. The lights still flashing after impact. 

Thanos's expression turned surprised, his mind not expecting that move.

"You sneaky bastard," he said, his voice filled with annoyance.

He tossed the Cruiser aside and charged at Superman again.

"I'm going to enjoy this," he said firmly.

Thanos's expression turned serious, his mind realizing he was up against a formidable opponent.

"You're quite confident," he said, his voice filled with slight respect.

"I'm Superman." 

Thanos's expression turned grudgingly respectful, his mind realizing he couldn't underestimate Superman.

"That you are," he said, his voice filled with a hint of admiration.

Superman's expression was firm, his mind refusing to back down.

"And I'm here to stop you," he said, his voice resolute. "Go back to Titan. Be happy with what you have."

Thanos's expression turned amused, his mind finding the idea hilarious.

"Go back to Titan? And give up this power? Never."

Ra's al Ghul shouts "Don't give him the power."

"I don't need your power. I'm not a god or am I supposed to be or even think so." Val-Zod said. 

Thanos's expression turned slightly surprised, his mind not expecting another superhero to speak up.

"You're not a god, huh?" he said, his voice filled with mockery.

"Take your Gauntlet and go home, Thanos." Superman suggested.

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not liking the idea of giving up his power.

"I'm not going anywhere," he said firmly. "Especially not without my Infinity Stones."

Thanos grabbed Superman and slammed him through the street. The power surging through Thanos was something they'd never seen before. 

Ra's al Ghul was on the phone with Lex Luthor on the telephone...."we've taken Gotham City." 

"Batman to?" Lex questioned. "You have to eliminate Batman or he'll ruin us down the road.. .but how in the hell did you take control?"

"Now do you believe in magic?" 

Lex's expression turned surprised, his mind not expecting this news.

"You've taken Gotham?" he asked, his voice filled with disbelief.

"I've seen the most powerful object in the universe." Ra's said. 

Lex's expression turned intrigued, his mind suddenly very interested.

"You have?" he asked, his voice filled with curiosity.

"Infinity Stones...all collected in one Gauntlet." Ra's explained. "The powers of a god." 

Lex's expression turned excited, his mind now determined to get his hands on the Infinity Stones.

"The power of a god, huh?" he repeated, his voice filled with desire.

Thanos and Superman continued to fight. The strength evenly matched. Their fists clashed, creating shockwaves that shook the area.

"You're pretty strong, for a mortal," Thanos grunted, his breath heavy. Their fists clashed, creating shockwaves that shook the area.

"You're pretty strong, for a mortal," Thanos grunted, his breath heavy.

Superman's expression was strained, his strength being tested.

"And you're pretty strong for a purple grape." He grunted.

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not liking the comparison.

"I am not a purple grape!" he exclaimed indignantly.

Superman smirked, his mind finding the comparison amusing.

"Could've fooled me," he said, his voice filled with teasing.

Thanos's expression turned angry, his mind not amused.

"You're going to pay for that," he snarled, his voice filled with anger.

Superman's expression remained determined, his mind still ready to fight.

"Bring it on," he said, his voice challenging.

Superman watched the stones start shining bright again. Thanos was fully enraged and the gauntlet knew that. He punched Superman so hard he disappeared from sight. 

Thanos's expression turned bloodthirsty, his mind determined to beat Superman.

"You asked for it," he said, his voice filled with menace as he charged at Superman again.

The two of them clashed once again, their strengths evenly matched.

"You're not going to win!" Superman grunted as he struggled against Thanos's strength.

"We'll see about that!" Thanos grunted, his mind still determined to come out on top.

They exchanged blows, each one more powerful than the last.

"You're only delaying the inevitable," Thanos said, his voice filled with arrogance.

Superman gritted his teeth, his mind refusing to give up.

"I won't lose," he said firmly.

Thanos chuckled, his mind still confident.

"You're fighting a losing battle," he said, his voice smug.

Superman's expression turned more determined, his mind not backing down.

"I've fought worse," he said.

Thanos's expression turned curious, his mind still intrigued despite himself.

"Oh really? Like who?" he asked.

Superman took a moment to think, his mind racing with memories.

"Darkseid." He finally said.

Thanos's expression turned surprised, his mind not expecting that answer.

"The God of Evil..." he said, his voice filled with begrudging respect. "I accidentally eliminated him with the Infinty Gauntlet. He was with us, before the mishap." 

Superman's expression turned understanding, his mind realizing what happened.

"He was erased," he said, his voice filled with realization.

Thanos's expression turned slightly annoyed, his mind still regretting that decision.

"Yes, he was," he said, his voice filled with a hint of remorse.

"You can't stay here, Thanos." Superman said.

Thanos's expression turned defiant, his mind still determined to stay.

"And why not?" he asked, his voice filled with challenge.

Superman's expression was resolute, his mind firm.

"Because you're a threat to all life," he said, his voice filled with determination.

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not appreciating the accusation.

"I'm only a threat to those who oppose me," he said defensively.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind not backing down.

"And right now, that's all of us," he said.

Thanos's expression turned defiant, his mind still stubborn.

"Then I guess I'll just have to take care of you all."

Superman's expression turned determined, his mind ready to fight.

"You'll have to get past me first."

15

Thanos stood towering over Superman and he couldn't believe that he was so durable and strong.

He threw a punch at him, but Superman dodged it easily and countered with a series of blows that had Thanos reeling back.

Thanos grunted as he stumbled back, his mind surprised by Superman's strength.

"You're stronger than I thought," he admitted grudgingly.

Superman smirked, his mind smug.

"I'm full of surprises."

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not appreciating the arrogance.

"Don't get too cocky," he warned.

Superman's expression remained confident, his mind ready to continue fighting. "I'm just getting started."

Thanos's expression turned determined, his mind still willing to fight.

"Then let's continue."

They resumed their fight, their blows more powerful than ever.

"You're more durable than I expected," Thanos grunted, his voice filled with begrudging respect.

Superman gritted his teeth as he blocked a punch, his mind still feeling the force of it.

"And you're stronger than I anticipated," he admitted, his voice strained. "But you have to go."

Thanos let out a dark chuckle, his mind still unconvinced.

"I'm not going anywhere," he said stubbornly.

Superman's expression turned firm, his mind even more determined.

"You don't have a choice," he said.

Thanos's expression turned defiant, his mind refusing to back down.

"I do have a choice, and I choose to stay."

Superman sighed, his mind realizing Thanos was being stubborn.

"You're only causing chaos and destruction," he said, his voice filled with concern. "You have to go back to Titan."

Thanos's expression turned irritated, his mind not appreciating the suggestion.

"I've grown tired of Titan," he said, his voice filled with disdain "It's time for a change."

Superman's expression turned confused, his mind not understanding.

"A change? What do you mean?" he asked.

Thanos's expression turned cold, his mind focused on his plans.

"I'm tired of being seen as the enemy," he said, his voice filled with anger. "I want respect, and even admiration."

Superman's expression turned understanding, his mind realizing Thanos's motivations.

"You want to be loved," he said, his voice filled with sympathy. "It's not happening here." 

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not appreciating the sympathy.

"And why not?" he asked defensively.

Superman's expression turned stern, his mind still firm.

"Because you're a threat to all life," he said, his voice authoritative. "You're only bringing chaos and destruction wherever you go."

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not liking that explanation.

"I only destroy those who are weak and unworthy," he reasoned.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind not swayed by the justification.

"You can't just decide who's weak and who's worthy," he said, his voice filled with disappointment.

"You're just holding things up." Thanos replied to the Man of Steel. 

Superman's expression turned determined, his mind still not backing down.

"And I'm not going to stop until you're gone," he said firmly.

"But I'm not leaving." Thanos said. "I'm moving into Batman's cave."

Superman's expression turned shocked, his mind not expecting that response.

"Batman's cave?" he repeated, his voice filled with surprise.

"He won't be needing anything." Thanos grinned. "He's been in my way since we arrived. I think there's two of them." 

Superman's expression turned concerned, his mind not liking that revelation.

"Two Batmans?" he repeated, his voice filled with disbelief.

"Yeah...Batman." Thanos called him. "Both of you come out here." 

Batman and Tim stepped out into the street. "There they are, Superman."

Batman's expression was firm, his mind prepared for whatever was coming.

"What do you want, Thanos?" he asked, his voice filled with determination.

Thanos smiled. "I want the two of you to fight, and I will let the winner live." 

Batman's expression turned skeptical, his mind not trusting the proposal.

"And if we refuse?" he asked, his voice filled with suspicion.

"I'll kill you both." Thanos said decisively. 

Batman's expression turned firm, his mind taking that threat seriously.

"You really think we're going to fight each other?" he asked, his voice filled with defiance.

Thanos's expression turned smug, his mind confident.

"I have no doubt you will," he said arrogantly.

Batman's expression remained firm, his mind not backing down.

"You're wrong," he said resolutely. "We're not going to fight."

"The hell you're not, square up there, and let's see who is better. Aye?" 

"I cannot beat Batman in a fight...you understand?" Tim pleaded with Thanos. 

Thanos's expression turned amused, his mind finding the plea amusing.

"You're scared?" he mocked.

"Hell yeah, and you should be too." Tim nodded. 

"Then let's get you beat and back to Titan." Superman stood up. 

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not appreciating the challenge.

"You think you can take me on?" he asked, his voice filled with arrogance.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind confident.

"I'm willing to try," he said.

Thanos's expression turned bloodthirsty, his mind ready for a fight.

"Then come at me."

Thanos let out a laugh and raised his hand, ready to use the gauntlet.

But Superman was too fast. Before he could snap his fingers, he punched him in the face.

He stumbled back and Superman punched him again and again, trying to get him away from the Infinity Stones so he could destroy the gauntlet.

Thanos grunted as he stumbled back, the force of the punches taking him by surprise.

"You're fast," he admitted grudgingly.

Superman's expression remained determined, his mind focused on stopping Thanos.

"And you're slow," he said, his voice filled with confidence.

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not liking that comparison.

"I'm not slow," he protested.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind not believing that.

"You're definitely slower than me," he said, his voice amused.

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not appreciating the tone.

"I'm just holding back," he said defensively.

Superman's expression turned skeptical, his mind not buying that excuse.

"Really? That's your excuse?" he asked, his voice filled with sarcasm.

Thanos's expression turned annoyed, his mind not appreciating the sarcasm.

"It's not an excuse," he insisted. "I'm going easy on you."

Superman's expression remained skeptical, his mind not buying that.

"Right," he said, his voice dripping with doubt.

Thanos's expression turned angry, his mind growing frustrated.

"You don't believe me, do you?" he asked, his voice filled with irritation.

Thanos's expression turned angry, his mind growing frustrated.

"You don't believe me, do you?" he asked, his voice filled with irritation.

Superman's expression remained skeptical, his mind still not buying it.

"You're still not as fast as me," he said, his voice holding a hint of arrogance.

Thanos's expression turned irritated, his mind not appreciating the arrogance.

"You're a cocky little bastard, aren't you?" he asked, his voice filled with annoyance.

Superman's expression remained smug, his mind still feeling confident.

"I've been called worse," he admitted.

Thanos's expression turned amused, his mind finding that interesting.

"Oh, really? Do tell."

Superman's expression remained amused, his mind still feeling smug.

"You want me to list them now?" he asked, his voice teasing.

Thanos's expression turned impatient, his mind wanting those answers.

"Yes, I do." he said firmly.

"You are going home." Superman said firmly. 

"No!" Thanos grunted as Superman took him into the air. Flying across the sky as fast as he could. Thanos was hitting him in the process.

Thanos grunted as Superman flew him through the air, his mind struggling to break free.

"Let me go!" he demanded.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind focused on keeping hold.

"Not a chance," he said firmly.

Thanos's expression turned angry, his mind not appreciating the response.

"You can't keep me here!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with frustration.

Superman's expression remained resolute, his mind firm.

"Oh, I can and I will."

Thanos's expression turned enraged, his mind not liking that response.

"You can't do this to me!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with anger.

Superman's expression remained unbothered, his mind determined.

"Actually, I can."

Thanos's expression turned furious, his mind not giving up.

"I'm not going back to Titan!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with desperation.

Superman's expression remained determined, his mind focused on his mission.

"That's exactly where you're going."

Thanos's expression turned panicked, his mind realizing he was in trouble.

"No! You can't do this to me!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with desperation.

Superman's expression remained unbothered, his mind resolute.

"And yet, I am."

Thanos's expression turned pleading, his mind trying a different tactic.

"Please! Don't do this!" he begged, his voice filled with desperation.

Superman's expression remained resolute, his mind still determined.

"Sorry, but I have to," he said firmly.

Thanos's expression turned more desperate, his mind realizing he was running out of options.

"There has to be something I can do to change your mind!" he pleaded, his voice filled with desperation.

Thanos's expression turned desperate, his mind still struggling to find a way out. 

Superman's expression remained resolute, his mind still focused on the task at hand.

"Like I said, there's nothing you can say that will change my mind." 

Thanos's expression turned even more desperate, his mind still trying to figure out a way to escape.

"Please! There must be something I can do!" he pleaded, his voice filled with desperation. 

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind staying resolute. "I've made up my mind."

Thanos's expression grew even more desperate, his mind not wanting to accept that.

"But..there has to be something.." he pleaded, his voice filled with desperation.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind still determined.

"There's nothing."

Thanos's expression turned panicked, his mind growing desperate.

"Please! You have to hear me out!" he pleaded, his voice filled with desperation.

Superman's expression remained resolute, his mind not budging.

"I've heard everything you've had to say."

Superman's expression remained resolute, his mind not budging.

"I've heard everything you've had to say."

Thanos's expression turned even more desperate, his mind panicking.

"But you have to listen to me! I'm begging you!" he pleaded, his voice filled with desperation.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind still in control.

"I am listening..."

Thanos's expression turned hopeful, his mind feeling relief.

"You are?" he asked, his voice filled with hesitation.

Superman's expression remained cautiously firm, his mind still wary.

"I am." he said simply.

Thanos's expression turned relieved, his mind feeling relieved.

"Then you'll listen to what I have to say?" He asked, his voice filled with hope.

Superman's expression remained cautious, his mind unsure.

"I'll hear you out." he said, his voice neutral.

Thanos's expression turned grateful, his mind appreciating the opportunity.

"Thank you," he said sincerely, his voice filled with relief.

Superman's expression remained cautious, his mind still wary.

"Just don't make this a waste of my time." he said, his voice firm.

Thanos nodded, his mind focused on making his case.

"I won't," he promised, his voice filled with determination.

Superman's expression remained cautious, his mind still listening intently.

"Good." he said simply.

Thanos took a deep breath, his mind preparing to speak.

"Thank you for giving me a chance to explain myself..." he said, his voice filled with gratitude.

Superman's expression remained cautious, his mind still listening attentively.

"You're welcome."

Thanos sighed, his mind trying to find the right words.

"I know you probably think I'm a monster..." he began.

Superman's expression remained focused, his mind listening intently.

"I do." he admitted honestly.

Thanos sighed, his mind knowing he had a lot to explain.

"I know I've done terrible things..." he said, his voice filled with shame.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind not wavering.

"You have." he acknowledged.

Thanos sighed, his mind realizing the enormity of his actions.

"But I did those things because I was...lost." He admitted, his voice filled with regret.

Superman's expression remained focused, his mind surprised by the honesty.

"Lost?" he repeated, his voice filled with curiosity.

Thanos nodded, his mind reliving the past.

"Yes...lost." he said heavily. "I'm tired of being seen as the villain..."

Superman's expression remained focused, his mind intrigued by the confession.

"So you decided to act like one?" he asked bluntly.

Thanos sighed, his mind realizing how ridiculous he must sound.

"I guess so..." he admitted, his voice laced with shame.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind not letting him off the hook.

"You realize how absurd that sounds, right?" he asked, his voice filled with frustration.

Thanos nodded, his mind realizing how crazy it sounded.

"Yes...it does sound crazy." he admitted, his voice filled with remorse.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind not feeling sympathy. "That's because it is crazy." he said bluntly.

Thanos sighed, his mind realizing the enormity of his actions.

"I realize that now." he said, his voice filled with regret.

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind still not feeling sympathy.

"You're only realizing that now?" he asked, his voice filled with disbelief.

Thanos sighed, his mind knowing he had a lot to explain.

"Yes...I was too shortsighted." he admitted, his voice filled with remorse.

Thanos sighed, his mind knowing he had a lot to explain.

"Yes...I was too shortsighted." he admitted, his voice filled with regret. 

Superman's expression remained firm, his mind still listening attentively.

"Understatement of the century," he muttered dryly.

Thanos sighed, his mind knowing he had a lot to make up for.

"I know..." he said heavily. "And I'm willing to make amends."

"You really have to go home, Thanos." Superman said firmly. 

Thanos's expression turned desperate, his mind not wanting to give up.

"But I don't want to go back to Titan!" he protested, his voice filled with anxiety.

"You really have to go home, Thanos." Superman said firmly. 

Thanos's expression turned desperate, his mind not wanting to give up.

"But I don't want to go back to Titan!" he protested, his voice filled with anxiety.

"What did you do, Thanos? You should always be able to go back home. Why are you not comfortable going back to Titan?

Thanos's expression turned downcast, his mind reliving painful memories.

"Because I'm a failure back there..." he admitted, his voice filled with shame.

Superman's expression turned surprised, his mind not expecting that response.

"A failure?" he repeated, his voice filled with surprise.

Thanos sighed, his mind struggling with the memories.

"Yes...a failure." he repeated firmly.

"You're the ruler of Titan, what failure are you talking about? 

Thanos's expression turned bitter, his mind filled with regret.

"I'm a failure to my people, my planet..." he said bitterly, his voice filled with sadness.

Superman's expression remained focused, his mind starting to understand.

"You feel like you can't go back because you're ashamed," he said softly.

Thanos's expression turned defeated, his mind realizing the truth in those words.

"Yes..." he admitted, his voice filled with shame.

Superman's expression relaxed slightly, his mind feeling a hint of sympathy.

"You feel that you can't face them again because you let them down," he said softly.

Thanos's expression turned even more defeated, his mind agreeing with that statement.

"Yes." he said heavily, his voice filled with remorse. "They've lost faith in me."

Superman's expression turned softer, his mind understanding the weight of that confession.

"And now you feel lost," he said softly.

"Sometimes it feels like you can't go back." Thanos said.

Superman's expression turned sympathetic, his mind agreeing with that sentiment.

"I know the feeling." he admitted softly.

Thanos's expression turned hopeful, his mind seeing a chance to connect.

"You do?" he asked, his voice filled with hope.

Superman's expression remained soft, his mind feeling a connection forming.

"Yes." he said honestly. "Sometimes...it feels like there's no going back to the way things were."

Thanos's expression turned understanding, his mind realizing they had more in common than he thought.

"I feel that way too." he said softly.

Superman's expression remained soft, his mind realizing the common ground.

"It's not a good feeling." He admitted truthfully.

Thanos sighed, his mind feeling a weight lift at the understanding.

"No...it's not." he agreed heavily.

Superman's expression turned understanding, his mind feeling empathy for Thanos.

"But there's always a chance to make things right." he said softly.

Thanos's expression turned hopeful, his mind realizing Superman was right.

"You think so?" he asked, his voice filled with hope.

Superman's expression remained soft, his mind feeling a sense of kinship with Thanos.

"I know so." he said firmly.

Thanos's expression turned touched, his mind feeling grateful for Superman's support.

"Thank you..." he said sincerely.

Superman's expression remained soft, his mind feeling a connection forming.

"You're welcome." he said simply.

Thanos sighed, his mind feeling a weight lift at the understanding. "May I ask you something?" he asked hesitantly.

Superman's expression remained soft, his mind feeling open.

"Sure of course," he said gently.

Thanos took a deep breath, his mind preparing to ask a difficult question.

"How do you stay so hopeful?" he asked, his voice filled with a hint of vulnerability.

Superman's expression remained soft, his mind thinking for a moment.

"I guess...I believe that there's always good in people." he said, his voice holding a note of faith.

Superman's expression turned amused, his mind finding the question unexpected.

"Well, he's definitely a challenge." he admitted with a small smile.

Thanos chuckled, his mind feeling a moment of lightness.

"That he is." he said, his voice holding a hint of humor.

Superman's expression remained softened, his mind feeling a connection forming.

"But I still believe that everyone has the capacity for good." he reiterated firmly.

Thanos's expression turned thoughtful, his mind taking in that statement.

"Even me?" he asked in a half-joking tone.

Superman's expression turned sincere, his mind seeing the vulnerability in that question.

"Yes, even you." he said softly.

Thanos's expression turned touched, his mind feeling a small sense of hope.

"You really think so?" he asked, his voice filled with a hint of vulnerability.

Superman's expression remained sincere, his mind seeing the genuine need in that question.

"I do." he said softly. "I believe in you."

Thanos made his way through the portal to Titan. He turned back looking at Superman. He waived, then crossed the line. Disappearing to the other side. 

Superman took it all in, and knowing Thanos would be back on Earth someday. 

Superman's expression remained resolute, his mind knowing the truth.

"Until we meet again, Thanos." he said softly.