(Earth 38 - Metropolis - Present Time in 2038)
The members of the Regime had received their objectives and were finalising their preparations. After the destruction caused by the nuke set off in Metropolis, Clark spent no time in rebuilding what he had lost. Everything had been recreated just as it once was, there was just one thing missing. It's been five years since then, since he lost Lois and his son. They had been the driving factor behind his actions and soon he will able to show her. The Lois Lane of Earth-1 came to a shock for him when he found out about her but it was her existence that gave him one final hope. He was going to find her and show her what he had accomplished and no one was going to stop him.
Another one of his allies, J'onn J'onzz and someone who he's known for a longtime had been at his side during all of this. The Martian Manhunter had also decided to pay the Red Sun Inmate a visit. He made his way briefly to Stryker's Island and met up with Future Kara before he was to set off with Clark to Earth-1 to retrieve Lois. He made it to her cell and there she sat on the same bench ever since the beginning. Future Kara lifted her head to meet her new visitor.
"Been getting alot of attention lately. You're the third one to come here, J'onn." Future Kara said, she had gotten up to greet him and had a wary look on her face. J'onn continued on in and carried the same look on his face.
"Let me guess, Mr. Allen came earlier as well. Well, it's good to see you doing good in there." J'onn replied as he walked. He finally came to a stop in front of the barrier that stood between them and the two looked at each other.
"I mean, being cooped up here isn't going to make them feel threatened. What about yourself, the others? Bruce?" Future Kara asked.
"He's safe, elusive he is. I told him all about what we're doing now. He suggests to keep things going and I agree. Your children are fine as well, they've managed greatly in spite of your absence." J'onn answered him, a sigh of relief came over Future Kara's face.
"That's... nice to hear. I can't imagine how hard it's been for you two. I've been in here for five years J'onn. I'm surprised I haven't lost my mind, but then again I guess it's because there's only one thing on my mind, one goal that's been keeping me on track." Future Kara said, giving her thoughts on the matter.
"Well, that amount of time is a far cry to the length I've lived, Kara. But myself and Mr. Allen are risking ourselves to act as your senses within the Regime. It's tough no doubt, but we lasted this long so I'll be damned sure to follow through." J'onn chimed in, trying to keep things optimistic.
"Thank you, J'onn. You've always been there for me and my family. The faster this comes to a close, the faster I can have you rest." Future Kara said, showing concern for J'onn.
"I need no reason to look out for you. Anyway... I should go before they start suspecting. A quick reminder of what they're up to: Mr. Allen will be with Diana to locate the Super Drug developed by the Luthors. As for myself, I'll be with Clark as he searches for Lois." J'onn said, reporting once more to her what their objectives were.
"That's a handful. Well, good luck, J'onn." Future Kara said in response, wishing well to the older man. He drew a smile on his face at her words.
"You too, Kara." J'onn said, leaving her with those words. With that, J'onn rushed out of the area with super speed.
J'onn was left to himself for a few moments as he was leaving, using that time to think about everything that has happened. It was an amazing feat they had pulled off and not having the Regime realise they were spies. He didn't know how long their luck would last but if anything were to endanger it, well, J'onn made a promise he wouldn't let it get to that.
(Earth 1 - Hall of Justice - 2038)
The surrounding area around them had become engulfed in darkness as the visions of William played out in their entirety for Kara and Oliver. They returned to the motion of having their eyes closed as Cisco ceased his abilities and slowly they began to open their eyes. Light flowed in, the glare stung for a brief moment until the scenery they were familiar with came into view again. They found themselves once more in The Hall of Justice.
Kara faced forward to see the older William looking back at them. He had a wary look on his face and seemed to be waiting for their response. Cisco had left the area to give the four of them the room they needed. She did not know how much time had passed since they watched the memories played out in their heads. She didn't know where to begin but her mind had already started racing on numerous questions. Staring into what was essentially her future was a surreal feeling, one filled with many fears and hopes as well. It was then, in the corner of her eye, someone came into view. It was Linda. She seemed reserved and watchful from a distance. Linda had made her way next to her brother and stood beside him. It was made clear now after seeing them younger, they were much different now. What did they have to endure in the time their parents were gone? Kara couldn't even begin to imagine. Without any notice or an inclination of thought, she leapt forward to the two of them and put her arms around them. Her body had just acted on its own and now she held them in a firm embrace.
"Thank goodness..." Kara ushered softly under her breath as she held them. Her head dug into the middle of them. It was quite sudden of her to do so, but Kara's hug invited them to return the favour.
"Well, I'm glad this went okay. I didn't know if I should've shown you that." William said, finally letting out his thoughts. Kara's reaction just now put an ease to his heart. The way her empathy poured unto to the two of them made them both happy.
"It was because you did, I feel this way. It felt like I was watching a part of my life play out rather than just some vision. It made me realise and empathise what happened to two of you and I'm so proud of what you've become." Kara whispers, her voice was soft and loving. She turns her head slightly. "Oliver, get in here."
Oliver had remained silent as he watched them. He too had felt the same as Kara. His prior social experience made him hesitant but he also want to join in. Kara's invitation pulled him in and he too put his arms around them. It now felt right, complete. The four family members although separated by time, held each tightly together and enjoyed the moment before them.
Several moments later, after they had their fill, they broke themselves apart. That hug just now what was they all needed. The insight of how Superman fell, how their future selves disappeared and their children coming to the calling as heroes was the knowledge they needed to understand the current events. They came to the future uncertain of the reason but now they had one to stay.
"William and Linda, I... I just want to say I'm sorry. The two of you had to pick up what we left. I may not know why that was the case, but i'll find out and put an end to this." Oliver spoke up, giving his sincerity to them. His words meant a lot to them. It was quite sad but refreshing also.
"Well, now you know everything, father. I'm really not trying to lose my composure, but I am really happy to see you two again." Linda said, her voice was shaky and her lip quivered. She had try to be calm and collected but her emotions fought through.
"We can talk more later on. I think we should meet up with everyone else for now and discuss where we should go from here." William said, putting his suggestion. It was apparent to Kara that there were others here too, as William said there was more time later for talking with them. As such, Kara and Oliver agreed with him and they made their way back to the meeting hall.
Kara, William and Linda had exited the room, as would have Oliver but he noticed someone by the corner. It was Laurel. She had her back against the wall and her arms folded cross. He made his way and she turned her head to greet him.
"Hey... I just wanted to thank you, for watching out for them, all this time." Oliver said to her. Laurel had a slight surprise look on her face as she was caught off guard but a small smile started to appear.
"It wasn't intentional, but those two were something else. It was... nice being able to do that." Laurel responded, her voice filled with sincerity and hopefulness. It was definitely not how he remembered her back in his time. She seemed much more mature and soulful.
"I know where I was from, things weren't on great terms. But those two look up to you like a mentor, because of that I am thankful, Laurel." Oliver said, offering his gratitude. It left her speechless but smiling. He took it as a sign of goodwill and proceeded to leave things as were and find the others.
(Earth 38 - Nevada - Search For Lena)
Barry had accompanied Diana and Kendra to the Nevada to follow through the last intel they had received in Detroit. If it was true, then Lena Luthor was to be here. The Regime had enlisted the Luthors to create a drug that would benefit them by providing them with the same abilities as Clark. It was only until Clark had discovered that Lex had been cooperating with Bruce and was going to give it to him that they planned to intervene. This too, included Lena who was helping due to her friendship with Kara. This was the events that brought them here to desert, to stop the manufacturing of the super drug and eliminate any existing ones.
"This is a large area. It will take some time to canvas it. The three of us will split up and search for the hidden base. Kendra, take to the skies and see if you can see anything. Barry, use your speed as you would to search them out. I'll be doing the same, if you find anything, report to me first. Understand?" Diana asked, explaining her orders to the both of them.
Barry acknowledged what she said and nodded to showcase he did. So did Kendra. Their understanding satisfied Diana.
"Good. Those prisoners we have on our side from Arkham will be ready to move on the call. I'll first head back and bring them here. Now... move out!" Diana shouts and at her call, Barry and Kendra head off to do what they were told to do. Well, that only applied to Kendra. Barry had something more concerning to attend to. He rushed all the way across the country to find someone else. An old friend in green.
"Been awhile since you've been here, eh?" Barry asks. He did not hear a response but instead a light-hearted scoff. Regardless, he arrived on Earth-38 on had plans of his own to enact.
(Earth 1 - Hall of Justice - Meeting Hall)
Oliver and Kara joined up with the members of the reformed Justice League. Settled in with newfound information and their surroundings, they watched them resume their meeting. Everyone was now present, gathering themselves around the large table and offered William their full attention.
"Okay, looks like we're all up to speed. I think it's time we discuss our next move. Our main priority right now will be to protect Ms. Lane. But we also shouldn't just stay put." William starts up, addressing everyone.
"This is all still bizarre, but I've seen too many weird things going on lately in this world. Really... what on earth is happening?" Lois asks, her confusion present in her voice.
"We need to find them before they find us. We got one of their friends, Black Adam staying quiet but I bet he doesn't feel threatened. If he get outs, it's gonna get real bad, so we gotta get em." Ronnie chimed in. He looked irritated and anxious.
"That's true, but these prisons are of the utmost quality. He won't be getting out anytime soon. From our current intel it's best if we divide our forces on two fronts." Linda said in response.
"Right. As mentioned earlier, we need to find Batman. He's been in hiding after his injuries but I know he's been watching. Aunt Alex is our informant on that Earth." William said. The mention of a familiar name ring bells to Kara.
"Alex? What's happened to her, where is she?" Kara asked, jumping into the conversation. William could see the urgency on her face.
"To keep it short, Superman dismantled the D.E.O four years ago. That didn't stop her though, she continued her work, even if it wasn't official. We're still trying to find her but she's been sending us encrypted messages on the events occuring. Right now, we can't do much." William said in response, answering her questions. It seemed she was okay and made Kara feel relieved.
"What's the other thing?" Oliver asked, bringing attention back to the main topic. Linda was the one to answer this one.
"The key to the Fortress of Solitude of Earth-1." Linda answers.
"Wait, what? How can that be? That would suggest that-" Oliver said in response, he displayed shock at her response. Kara was too surprised to hear this.
"Yes, evident to you there was no mention of Kryptonians on this Earth for some time. Well, that's what the Kara of Earth-1 wanted. She lived a life in secrecy but it wasn't until our one showed up that shook her up. Mother made herself known as Supergirl here just as she was on Earth-38. Earth-1 Kara felt her identity had been stolen but it was during our time in the past she had an opportunity to start anew. The breaches that opened during the time we were preventing the timeship from exploding gave her that. She went to Earth-2 and became someone else. Her name now is Karen Starr or more notably, Powergirl. She left behind the Fortress of Solitude and entrusted the key to our parents." Linda explained, she had gone on for awhile, but a lot was revealed in her words. A sudden revelation at that but there was time to think of that later.
"I see... so where is this key?" Oliver asked. He had take some time to process things but got around to understanding it.
"A few locations we honed in on. The Queen Mansion, a vault in Queen Industries, or our house in Midvale. My choice would be the vault. It has a biometric lock only for you dad, not even I can unlock it. It needs your DNA. It's another reason why we brought you here." William answered. It was quite a loophole for them, if the current person is gone but they exist in the past, that would work also, in theory.
"That's a plate full of tasks on our hands." Kara said, voicing out her thoughts.
"That's correct, mother. All of this will need to be done in due order. For now, it's getting late. It'd be in our best interest to rest up and get our strength back. It's uncertain what tomorrow has in store for us, essentially this is the calm before the storm." Linda said, bringing the discussion to a close. As much as Kara was worrying about the various things brought up, it was no doubt the best thing to do for now.
"All right good call. Every one of you should rest up. I'll look after Ms. Lane here." Laurel said, emerging from the shadows once more and made her way to Lois.
"Nah it's fine, Laurel. We got this." Cisco responded. Laurel lets off a light-hearted scoff and placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Really, it's good. You were out on the field, get yourself checked up. I'll look after the reporter." Laurel said, she gave him an assuring look and such Cisco let her have her way. She then puts her arms around Lois' shoulder. "All right, Lois. You're in capable hands." They begin walking off as Lois had a confused look on her face.
All that remained was the four family members. Kara and Oliver were unsure of what they were supposed to do now.
"Well, guess we're off to home now." Linda said, smiling at the two of them.
"Home?" Kara asked.
"We used to live in the Queen Mansion together for some time, but that place isn't quite secure right now. And we can't hop onto Earth-38 for now. We'll have to do with our apartment." Linda answered her. Oliver and Kara didn't really much to say in the matter and so they followed the actions of the other two.
(Earth 1 - Apartment in Central City - 2038)
It was initially strange to find themselves in Central City, but reflecting on the memories, they remembered William was studying at the University a few years ago before becoming the Green Arrow. It was quite the spacious apartment, small but spacious. A few hours had passed since they arrived and got themselves settled in.
Oliver walked over to William who had been sitting on the couch. As he neared him he notice something catching his eye on the coffee table in front of William. It was notebook of some sort and was laid open in front of him.
"That's curious, what's that?" Oliver asked, coming to a stop in front of him. His question made William turned his head took at Oliver then down to table.
"Ah, this. This is a... notebook of names I found important to keep track of." William answered him, his gaze locked unto the book.
"Hmm, reminds me of the list I also had." Oliver said in response. William turns to him in a slight surprise.
"You had something similar, Dad?" William asked, to hear that they shared something in common made him feel excited.
"Yeah, I did. Mind if I have a look?" Oliver responds and in turns asking him to see the contents of the book. William grabs the notebook and hands it to his Dad.
Oliver begins to read through the pages, going past the name he saw. Some were unfamiliar whilst some he did know. Nonetheless it was just like the list back when he first started.
"Clark Kent, Diana Prince, James Olsen, Bruce Wayne, Harleen Quinzel..." Oliver said, reading the names aloud. He focused the ones that drew his attention. The flashbacks of his son's memories now gave him a face attached to those names, even though he never technically met them yet.
"Yeah, I put them in people of interest. Three of them are in the Regime but the other two are just as pressing. Especially Harley Quinn. She went missing after Joker died. Around the same time Bruce did as well." William said, explaining more of his reasonings for the names in there.
"Sounds like a coincidence, does it not?" Oliver asked, the two matters seemed to fit that.
"Yeah, probably. But we don't know for sure." William responded, unsure of the certainty.
Oliver continued on reading through the notebook as William watched him for some time. It was as if he was pondering something in his mind.
"Hey Dad... Can I ask you something?" William asked suddenly, his voice was low and cautious. Oliver stopped his reading and put the book down.
"Sure, go for it." Oliver replied, turning to face him.
"It's nothing related to the book. It's just... well... how do you do it? Be a leader and all that? I just can't seem to find my ground." William asked, getting his question out. It was certainly a question he hadn't expected or even thought in the current moment. But it was asked of him and so Oliver thought about it.
"The thing is, WIlliam, I don't know if I would call myself the leader. But calling the shots has just come naturally to me. The one thing I've picked up on my experiences is to have a strong conviction. What I mean is to fully commit to your actions, 100% no matter if you feel any doubts. You'll carry a lot of things with you, the burden, the pain but also your team. Everyone will look towards you for the answer. As harsh as it is, you have to be strong for that. Be the pillar they can lean on. Because if you fall, so will everyone else." Oliver spoke to William, looking deeply into his eyes and offering the utmost sincerity. He could see William take his words deeply as he listened to it all. They resonated and seemed to ingrained something inside him as a smile crept on his face.
"Thanks, Dad..." William said softly, still smiling at him. He didn't know it then but the reason behind his smile was the fact that it had been so long he had been given advice from his father in some time. Being in the situation reminded him when he was younger, of a simpler time.
"I know that Ronnie kid can be quite a hothead as well other things during your time. But from what I've seen and how they all look at you, you're doing good. My future self would be proud as I am right now." Oliver said, ushering him a prideful smile. It was a rare occurrence but William was willing to take it, these moments don't come often. Those words that day went on to inspire him.
The night went on into a good mood, Kara and Linda worked on a special dinner for the evening that night. A special ice-cream recipe Linda had learned and they put their all into it. They gathered around the table and dug into the cold goodness. To William and Linda this felt all too similar but for Oliver and Kara it was their first time, yet that thought never crossed their mind. All that was there was a good time to be had. The time had reached around midnight by the time everyone had gotten wearied and tired down. Oliver noticed Kara outside on the balcony and decided to join her.
"We seem to find ourselves on a balcony, don't we Kara?" Oliver asked in a light manner, easing his entrance outside. Kara lets out a small laugh at his tone.
"We do. But look at it, Oliver. It's beautiful." Kara said looking towards the night sky. It was a familiar but distant memory, nonetheless she was right, it was beautiful. Oliver joins up on the railings and looks up with her. As much as he wanted to enjoy this, there was something else that probed around his mind.
"So... what do you really think about of all this?" Oliver asked her suddenly. His question had brought the tone to something different. Kara looked towards him and can see the concern on his face.
"You can tell?" Kara asked, her smile dropping slowly as she realises where Oliver was heading for.
"Yeah. I've had the look for the longest time. I know it when I see it." Oliver answers her. He told in a gentle manner but he had hit the spot. Kara had reservations about her entire feeling about the events of five years prior. She took a deep breath and gathered her thoughts.
"I can't help but feel for Kal, y'know. At first I was shocked and at a loss at why he was acting like he is. But after seeing those memories, it's become clear, what made him like that. There's also this weird feeling about the future. Why did we need to see this or be here? I know they asked us for help but... I don't know. All I know is, Kal and I always had similar fates in life. What I need to do for him now, I don't know if can answer it." Kara said, pouring out her inner deep thoughts to Oliver. She did her best to be honest to him and in turn he listened to her. The truth in the matter was that they were as lost.
"It's fair for you think that. This is all still outlandish to me, but you know him better than I do, Kara. I have confidence you will find that answer when you and Clark next meet. And remember, you're not alone... I'm here with you." Oliver said response, ushering her a smile and an assuring look. The tables had turned and he was the comforting her, not that she was against that. It was nice to see him care for like that. It made her really happy.
"Thank you, Ollie. I just... don't know how my future self did this." Kara said.
"Well she had more time. That's usually how it goes. I'm certain she struggled as you are right now." Oliver said.
"I hope that's the case." Kara said in response, letting out a sigh. There was nothing more to go on and it was getting late. Time wasn't going to wait for them.
"Alright, we should head inside, sweetie. We're gonna need the strength." Oliver said, coming in close to her and putting her arms around her shoulder. She put hers arms around his waist and hugged him.
Although they hadn't figured an approach for Clark just yet, being honest in that moment was a weight off Kara's chest. It was comforting to know she had someone by her side, because of all this was a lot for Kara to handle but Oliver's presence made it all the more easier.
(Earth 38 - Luthorcorp Lab - Nevada Desert)
Deep within the sands of the Nevada, Lena had held herself in her lab. She knew there were people coming for her, but she had to finish the project for them, even if it was the last thing she was to do. She could feel rumbles going throughout the lab and they become louder with each one. They were getting and closer, until finally the door to her location bursted open. A bunch of prisoners armed with weapons stormed inside and aimed them towards Lena.
"Put em up, Luthor!" a prisoner shouted at her. Lena obliged and raised her arms.
"Now, boys. We don't have to do this." Lena said, getting to her feet and following their command.
"Oh we do. It's between you and Wonder Woman. We know who's more scarier. She'll have fun with you and we can go our merry way!" the prisoner retorts back.
It was then suddenly the lights went off in the room and the last sound that was heard was close to a projectile. The room was dark but thuds and bumps erupted in the room. Screams filled the room until finally the room gained light again. The soldiers that threatened Lena were now laying on the ground. She noticed an arrow sticking out of one of them. It was then, she then saw someone in green standing in the doorway with a bow and arrow.
"Hello, Lena. It's been a long time." the emerald archer spoke. It took her a moment to realise but when she did she recognise who it was.
"Oliver...? Why are you- Heh, thank you for saving me." Lena answered, relieved to see a familiar face.
"You're the one who saved me back then, I'm only returning the favour. This mechanical arm is a nice bonus, I guess." Future Oliver said in response, flexing his bionic right arm.
"It was a good thing Barry brought you in as soon as he did. You were losing a lot of blood after your arm was blown up." Lena said. She gave him a much harder look. The attire he wore wasn't exactly a hero suit. It was just plainly dark green leather and a hood to cover his face. He had a goatee and was much older.
Future Oliver walked in towards the lab and looked around.
"How's the research going?" Future Oliver asked.
"Ah, it was getting slow during production, so I focused all our resources into securing a prototype. Follow me." Lena answered and lured Future Oliver after her. She brought him to where tube that had a pill stored in the middle of it. She reached in and grabbed it, handing it to Future Oliver. "With consumption, you will be granted super durability and strength that matches Clark. It's a shame it doesn't replicate the other abilities though."
"That's more than enough. I've spent 5 five years preparing myself. Now I can fight and save her." Future Oliver said, his voice filled with conviction as he stared on to the drug on his palm.
"Where do we go from here, Oliver?" Lena asked.
"It's obvious, you're not safe here. Diana will get distracted for only some time before she arrives. We'll head for Stryker's Island next." Future Oliver said.
"To where Kara is?" Lena asked.
"Yes." Future Oliver answered, confirming Lena's question. It was decided then, he made it clear this lab wasn't secure anymore. She was going to follow him and help him any way she can.
(Author's Note)
Hello to you my reader. Thanks again for tuning in. This was a nice shorter chapter that I felt gave some breathing room for the characters. There's a few original concepts I'm trying to introduce here, especially with Powergirl. She won't make an appearance in this story. Within my history of events though, at least she'll be ready to use whenever. I touched more on Oliver and William as I felt they haven't got much since I tried to flesh out Linda much recently. How do you feel about them so far? I'm trying my best to feel out what would they be like as realistic as possible. Also, I feel like the introduction of the Future versions existing whilst the current Oliver and Kara are visiting might be confusing you at the moment. As I mentioned the story is heavily guided for Kara. Her time in the future will show a perspective she normally wouldn't consider. Her relationship with Oliver and how that will pan out in contrast to the falling of Superman. Seeing the happy end their future selves got with family and pitted against Clark having lost his families, it will make Kara question things. That's my objective for this arc. Hope this gave you the direction you need to see where the story is going from here. Please leave any thoughts you have, I'd like to hear them. Can't wait for Elseworlds too! Have a good one!