Disclaimer: Do not own Justice League or any characters from the marvel or DC universe.
Well so much for that every two weeks things. Work has been a bitch and I have to share time with the computer. Anyway thanks for being patient and I hope this is worth the wait.
SpartanCommander: I love your ideas but I'm afraid I am keeping Spiderman as he is. Although something you said will come up in this storyline. What that is you will just have to wait and see.
Relork Infernus: Glad you enjoy the story and I will continue to write it. You will find out the status of those from the other universe in the next chapter.
KaliAnn: Glad you like the invasion as I put a lot of thought into it. I know killing is surprising people but it fits in with the theme of the story. Also the founders reaction will be seen in the next chapter.
Maid of the Mer: Thanks for the good review again.
Doza: Glad you like the story but the darker theme is needed to fit the story together. Marvel charcters next chapter.
X-Over: Glad you liked it and I did receive your changes. I didn't ask this time because it is the holidays and I wanted to give you a break.
Now time for the story. Consider this your Christmas and New Year gift from me to you.
"Those over grown bucket of bolts are getting turned to scrap out there. There are only two more left. Not to mention almost the entire platform is on fire and we are trapped inside this thing. Just what is you r next brilliant move Colonel!" Said Amanda in distain and frustration.
Adams narrowed his eyes at her before speaking.
"My next move is to get you out of here." He said.
"Just how do you plan to accomplish that? The Justice League won't let us get off the ground and the only stairway back down is blocked."
"Ms. Waller, this is a high priced well equipped military base. Do you think it would be built with only one way to reach each level?" He asked.
Her eyes darkened at his tone.
"The answer is no, there is always another way out. On each level there are emergency elevators that are designed to be used in emergencies. And if this isn't a emergency I don't know what is."
"Where is it?"
"At the back wall just under the platform control tower."
"That's over 50 feet away, we'll never make it."
"Yes we will, this thing may not be able to fly but it can still fire." Adams turned to the two escorts and the pilot. "You three will stay here and turn the Hybrid on. Once myself and Ms. Waller leave you will use it weapons to fire everything it has at the Justice League. It won't be enough to stop them but it will be enough to stall them for our escape. I'm sorry to say this calls for a sacrifice on your parts but the council must be preserved at all costs, do you understand?" said Adams.
"Yes sir!" was the response from all.
Adams nodded his head and returned the salute. He then saw the platform light up in green and looked out the wind shield. His fears were conformed when he saw even more Justice League members.
"Damn, they couldn't get the hatch closed in time. No choice Ms. Waller we have to do this now." He said grabbing her arm.
Ms. Waller did say a word as she was dragged out the hybrid and they both took off running toward the hidden elevator.
The three inside wasted no time in arming the weapons and preparing to fire to protect their bosses.
Just as they were doing that the final two war bots met their end by the combined forces of the newly arrived Justice League members. The platform was now a metal graveyard and fires were everywhere making it hard to see.
"Glad you guys could make it but would someone please put those fires out before ewe choke on all this smoke." Said Green Arrow before coughing himself.
Captain Atom, who was leading the second team, nodded his head and starting absorbing the fire into himself. He was helped by Supergirl using her strong breath and S.T.R.I.F.E. using some of his freeze missiles.
Just as all the fire was almost gone missiles flew in the mist of the hero's and exploded knocking many of them down.
"What was that, I thought we took down everybody up here?" asked Black Canary who was out the range of the blast zone and relatively unharmed.
No one got to add another comment as bullets flew through the air looking for a target. Steel saw them coming as used his body as a shield for the rest. The bullets punched his suit at an alarming weight but the armor held. However the impact was too much for him and he feel down moaning in pain.
"It's coming form over there; there is still one machine left. It's some king of helicopter or jet I can't tell which." Yelled Star girl from the skies. She then held her cosmic rod high and flew towards the machine intent on destroying it.
"Courtney Stop!" Yelled her step father who was operating S.T.R.I.P.E.
She paid no attention to him and powered up preparing to smash the machine into pieces. She was stopped however when a blue beam came out of the hybrid and she found herself immobilized. She recognized it as a gravity beam and tried to fight through. But not even her strength could break through the beam and she felt her body pushed down at a alarming rate before hitting the ground with a loud smack. The beam did disengaged from her and went to find other targets. Meanwhile Stargirl had lost her rod went she hit and wasn't moving.
"You Bastard!" Yelled her step father in complete rage and flew right at the machine that had just hurt his daughter.
Even as the Hybrid grounded Hawk, Dove, and Shining Knight it still let off a barrage of missiles at the huge robot heading its way. In S.T.R.I.P.E.'s rage a grief he made no attempt to even dodge. Therefore two missiles hit him dead center and the chest pate was all but destroyed. However this didn't matter and he still charged on. He brought down his heavy metal fist and slammed it on top of the Hybrid. Although the shields and armor held the Hybrid was rocked and forced to shut down it's gravity beam. But S.T.R.I.P.E. didn't stop there as he slammed another fist and another. The shield continued to hold but was quickly losing power.
The other Justice League members looked on but could not use their own attacks with their teeamate so close to it.
"Back off S.T.R.I.P.E., Stargirl is not dead just unconscious. W can destroy that thing together." J'onn said trying to calm the man in pain. While he did that Supergirl held the limp Stargirl in her arms using her x-ray vision to see how bad the injuries were.
"No, he hurt my family and I won't let him get away with it. I'm destroying this thing myself." He answered before he stopped punching it and put it in a bear hug squezzing with all his might. Under such pressure the shield could no longer hold and burned out. The only thing left was the armor itself to protect the occupants inside. The two escorts decided that wasn't enough and abandoned the hybrid with gun blazing in the area of the League. But they only got off a few shots before S.T.R.I.P.E. swung the hybrid right into their bodies sending them flying. They lay on the ground with no weapons and broken.
Pat Dugan, the robots pilot, then looked inside and saw the pilot still there.
"You made a big mistake hurting my kid, and it's one you won't ever repeat." He said in a grave voice.
The then picked up the Hybrid even as the pilot fired its machine gun turrets in a vain attempt to save himself. But in the Hybrid's present position its guns were pointing straight at the ground and only a few ricochets hit the metal legs of the giant robot. But this wasn't enough to stop the angry father as he lifted the machine higher and threw it in the air, right into the platform control tower. The Hybrid broke through the glass windows and metal and sparks flew everywhere. Most inside were crushed while the others ran for cover. Unfortunally for them none were spared when the sparks ignited and the entire control tower and the Hybrid exploded. Screams of pain and agony were blocked out my the shear mass of the explosion as it all came tumbling down from the wall and crashed to the ground.
No one said anything for the moment as they saw S.T.R.I.P.E. slowly make his way to them with a whole in its chest and bullet holes in its legs. The robot then came down to a stop as a battered Pat Dugan climbed out the whole and grabbed his daughter from Supergirl's hands. He cried over her body and fell to his knees. As the tears dropped on Star girl's face she slowly awaken and looked up at her father.
"It's alright dad, I'll be okay." she said in a soft voice.
He looked at her with the strain clearly on his face and smiled.
"I know baby girl, we all will be." He then looked up at the hero's around him until he met the eyes of the Martian Manhunter.
"I think you better transport us and the rest of the injured back to the tower. You guys can finish up here." He said.
J'onn nodded and telepathy contacted the techs to teleport which individuals back up and get them medical treatment. As they were surrounded by green Light Pat Dugan said one more thing.
"Give them hell." Before disappearing from site.
"The medical staff will attend to them and they will be fine. At the moment we are still in the middle of the mission. With the second group here it is now time to press our advantage and save our friends." Said J'onn.
"I agree, although I don't see some of the others in the first group. Have they already reached the next level?" asked Captain Atom.
"Yes, we split up and kept members of Cadmus up here as the others went down. They should have reached the second level by now and engaged more of Cadmus forces. With this area now secure we can join them." Said J'onn.
"Then let's stop talking about it and do it. There is no telling what they might have done to the founders in retaliation for this assault." Said Vixen who arrived with the second group and was both eager and worried about her boyfriend.
"She's right, there is still some more tail to kick and I want in." Added Wildcat.
"Very well, all of you head down the stairs to the next level. Meanwhile I will phase through to the bottom levels. I personally want to make sure the recon team accomplished their objective and freed the founders in time." Said J'onn. With that he became transparent and flew down through the floor.
"You heard the man, move out." Said Captain Atom leading the way to the next level.
As the Justice League made their way down the stairs none of them thought to look through the destruction of the platform control tower. If they had they might have noticed that the fire and crushed metal was hiding the secret elevator that Colonel Adams and Amanda Waller and taken for their escape.
"What the hell was that!" complained an angry Amanda Waller as Colonel Adams helped her to her feet.
"Sounded like something hit the doors up top. Possibly a stray missile or one of the Justice League's powers. Either way if they had found this elevator they would have been here by now. Calm down Ms. Waller, we will reach the underground hanger in approximately 3 minutes." Assured the Colonel.
"Why was I not made aware of this hanger? As the leader and commander of Cadmus I should know everything about this base." She demanded.
"I apologize mamm, but the error was not mine but General Ross. In his opinion he felt you didn't need to know about it since you would never have to use it. Obviously like so many other things he was wrong." Said Adams.
The leader of Cadmus scowled at this new information.
"Damn that man, I hope the League killed him. Either way as I said earlier he no longer holds his prior position in the Cadmus hierarchy. You will now take his place."
"Thank you for the honor and reminding of my next course of action." He then turned back on his radio and talked to the base communication center. After a brief overview of the battle he was connected to the men guarding the other council members.
"Get them to the emergency elevators at once. It's still to early to tell who will win this battle but the council must be preserved at all costs. I am already on one of the elevators with Ms. Waller and will meet you there." Adams said.
"Yes sir." Said the loyal soldier before getting off the line.
"You also need to get some men down to the labs Colonel. The founders blood work is still there as well as the new virus we are working on." Said Amanda.
"I'm afraid I don't have anyone to spare for that errand. All available personal are trying to save this base. If victorious all those things will still be there at the end of the day."
"That is not an option Colonel. We have spent to much hard work collecting that DNA. Besides the clones it has helped us immensely in creating a virus that only effects beings with super or special powers. We can not afford to lose them, I'm your commander I demand you send a unit to retrieve those things from the lab."
"Unfortunally your rank won't help you in this situation." Said Adams in a voice that let her know he knew something she didn't.
"What are you talking about; you have to follow my orders."
"You should pay more attention to military procedures. Your power is absolute except for cases when they would compromise the base or high ranking personal like yourself. In such a situation all descions are turned over to the military head meaning me. Since it would leave this base or the council vulnerable if I dispatched men to the med lab I can use my military power to over rule yours. In short it is my descion and my answer is no." Finished Adams.
"Damn you Colonel, you won't get away with this." She threaten.
"There is nothing to get away with. I am simply following proper procedure and obeying the rules set forth before me." He said with no expression on his face.
Amanda scowled at him and cursed under her breath but made no attempt to change his mind.
Although expressionless on the outside Colonel Adams was laughing on the inside. Finally this invasion had given him opportunity to shut the bitch up. Everything he had told Amanda was true, except for one. It was no longer a case if Cadmus would win this battle, but how long the troops could hold out before defeated. The reports he got from the communication center were not good. The camera viewing the cells holding the founders were showing nothing but static. The same thing with the e radios of those guarding the cells. Add to that another a second wave of super heroes and Cadmus was in deep trouble. Sure, they would probably take a few of the Justice League members out. But in the end Cadmus would lose and the base would fall.
"Just calm yourself Ms. Waller. Soon we will reach the bottom and you and the others will safely escape this place." Add the Colonel.
Ms. Waller said nothing to this and simply gave him a sneer of contempt. For Adams part he showed no visible emotion while secretly smiling at getting the best of her on the inside.
Back at the stairwell to the second lower level Cadmus defenders had indeed fired everything in their arsenal at the Justice League members that had came down the stairs. The attack was brutal and would have obliterated any opponent. However in this case it didn't seem to hurt the Justice League at all. All the bullets, lasers, and other forms of weaponry seem to go right through them, literally.
"What the hell is going ob here! We are hitting them with everything we have and it doesn't seem to hurt them at all." Said one of the soldiers frustrated while he continued to fire.
"I don't know just keep firing. Eventually we will have to hit something." Answered another soldier as he too unloaded his weapon at the enemy.
The soldier seeing no other alternative did just that and kept firing. The rest did as well and took no notice of the wall cannons suddenly being destroyed by small orbs. Over all the chaos and noise their firing was doing it was impossible to do so. Eventually though the Lutientant who had commanded the firing in the first place yelled over the destruction for all to cease fire. It took a while but finally both man and machine did.
"You idiots, stop wasting ammo. Our weapons are going right through them. Can't you see that they aren't real!" He yelled in exasperation.
Cadmus defenders looked at each other and then to the Justice League in front of them. They were still either flying and running around supposedly using their powers against them, But when a fire ball or a large fist reached one of them it went right through. They all slowly came to realize that they had been tricked. However this realization came too late and the illusions of the Justice League disappeared and the real Justice League came running down the stairs. Orion led the charge and fired many projectiles from his Astro-Harness taking down several Cadmus troops. This cleared the way for more of his teammates without projectile powers to engage.
"Fall back and regroup we have to regain the advantage." Said the Lutientant as he fired while backing up.
But they didn't get far as if appearing out of no where Gypsy, Mr. Terrific, Shining Knight, and Aztek. Shining Knight reacted first and slashed down with his powerful sword breaking the Lutientants laser rifle in two. He then followed it up with a back hand that sent the solider to the ground.
"I suggest you stay down naïve or face the consequences." Said Shining Knight.
"I also suggest you all surrender as we have you surrounded and have you low on ammo from your first assault." Said Mr. Terrific as his T-spheres surrounded him. One did briefly show an illusion of Superman before revealing his its true nature.
"It was you who created the illusions that we fired at. But how did you get behind us." Said the soldier as the others had stopped waiting to hear what they should do next. They knew they were low on ammo and surrounded on both sides by some very powerful individuals.
"That was my doing. I used my ability to cloud minds in order to sneak around you without you ever noticing." Answered Gypsy.
"The time for talk in over, make your descion. Eihter surrender and turn over your weapons or choose to continue to fight and be defeated." Said Aztek looking down at the man in disgust.
The Lutientant looked at him and then behind him to his men. Despite the brave faces they had on he could tell they were concerned and even a little bit afraid. As the command officer on the scene he knew they would follow what ever order he gave without question. But he also knew that each of their lives was his responsibility and the choice he made would not only determine his fate but theirs as well. Seeing no choice he let out a frustrated breath and yelled to his men.
"Put down your weapons. There are more men on their way and they will accomplish what we could not." He then looked back to the League. "Make no mistake; even with this small victory you will not leave this base alive." He said in a strong voice.
After that the Cadmus troops still standing slowly put down their weapons and raised their hands in the universal gesture of surrender. The robots too slowly went off line and the battle field was temporarily silenced.
At the sounds coming from up the stairs and Justice League and Cadmus members alike turned in that direction. When it was shown who came down the stairs there were two different reactions. For Cadmus there was shaking of heads in disappointment. For the Justice League there was relieve and joy that more of their team had arrived.
"Looks like you have everything under control here." Said Supergirl looking at the defeated soldiers.
"Damn wussies, doesn't even look like they put up much of a fight." Added Wildcat who was still aching to do some more fighting.
Some of the Cadmus troops tensed at that but made no attempt to go for their discarded weapons.
"That's enough Wildcat, we don't want to do more harm then necessary. Don't forget that no matter what these people are still part of the planet that we protect and are under our care." Said Black Canary disapproviling.
"Then they should be more grateful and stop trying to destroy us." Added Hawk in complete agreement with Wildcat.
"We have no time for these petty arguments. Although these have surrendered there are still more troops here. We should secure these and continue to move on." Said Captain Atom trying to get everyone back on track.
"He's right, just leave a few here and the rest of us will go on ahead. We have to save the others or this will have all been meaningless." Said Vixen thinking of the founders but especially her boyfriend.
"No need for a whole group. My T-Spheres can do more than just make illusions and knock out wall cannons." Said Mr. Terrific.
He then lifted his hands and his T-Spheres dispersed and surrounded the group of Cadmus soldiers. Electric energy then shot out from one to the other connecting to all the other Spheres. Eventually the network was complete and all the Cadmus soldiers were contained in an electric cell created by the T-Spheres.
"Good work Mr. Terrific, you will remain here and make sure the cell holds. The rest of us will continue ahead and engage the remainder of the enemy. The founders can't be too much further down." Said Captain Atom as he led the others into Cadmus's depths.
Meanwhile as the Justice League were making their way downwards the founders and their rescuers were making their way upwards. All three groups had met up with each other and the Atomgave everyone their respective weapons.
"Good to see you professor, and thanks for these." Said Wonder Woman putting on her chest plate, arm bands, and magical rope.
"Yes, good work." Was the Dark Knights reply as he checked his ulitility belt to make sure everything was where it was suppose to be.
"Looks like the whole gang is back together. Now what do you say we head out of here? Personally I can't take being in one place for such a long period of time." Said Flash still stretching his back trying to get loose from the days of being forced to stay on his stomach.
"I agree, how good it is to see you all again. I haven't see the sun for a long time. I'm still weak and need to regenerate my powers." Commented the man of steel.
"That's the plan; the other Justice League members most likely are already making their way down here. Which means most of Cadmus troops will have their attentions set on them allowing us a less hostile path in going up. We will go as soon as you are all prepared." Said Captain America keeping one eye on the hallway at all time.
"Not that we don't appriate the help but just who are you and your friend anyway. Atom said you are new allies but I want to know just what kind." Said GL looking at Captain America and the now shrunken Bumble Bee.
"As I told Wonder Woman and Superman I will be glad to tell you everything you want to hear. But only after we have all escaped this facility. Time is a factor as Cadmus will soon try to regroup from this surprise attack. For now you shall just have to remain content in the knowledge that we are here to help you and will do so in the future as well." Said Cap.
The founders looked at each other for a moment before Wonder Woman spoke.
"I believe we can trust him and his friend. H e personally saved me at the risk of his own life and showed great skill in doing so. I think we can hold any questions until a later time." Said Wonder Woman.
"Considering are present circumstances I believe we have no other choice. We must escape now while Cadmus is still trying to organize a counter attack. It won't take them long to find out their security detail guarding the cells is not answering and that something must be wrong."
"Agreed, but I'm afraid I won't be of much help being incased in that fake red sun room for so long." Said Superman tiredly.
"I don't suppose you would be willingly to carry a gun?" Asked Cap.
Superman looked at the stranger as if he was insane.
"Absolutely not." He said.
"I didn't think so. Atom, get my shield out please." Said Cap.
The Atom nodded and brought Cap's shield out and transformed back to its regular size. Except now the shield was completely black with no markings on it what so ever.
"I had Atom make a hologram on my shield to prevent others from seeing its true markings." Captain America said as he handed the shield to Superman. "That shield has saved my life through many battles and I am sure it will do the same for you. It's also really thick and makes a good weapon. It has been with me for a long time so I would appreciate you taking good care of it for the time it will be in your possession." Said Cap.
Superman looked at the man and then to the shield he now held in his hands. It looked ordinary but he could tell by its weight it wasn't. He still had a little of his strength and had trouble lifting the object. But he did so and held it at shoulder level before looking back at the man who had given him something that obviously meant a lot to him.
"Thank you." Was the only thing Superman could think to say.
Captain America simply nodded back and marched forward with the rest. However their path was almost immediately blocked by two dozen soldiers and another group of Ultimen.
"Damnit, the founders have escaped. We must stop them before they join their friends." Said one of the soldiers as he opened fire with his machine gun. The others Cadmus troops weren't far behind and they too open fire.
"I got it." Yelled Green Lantern as he created a green wall stopping the bullets in their tracks.
"You haven't charged that thing in a while so be careful with its use. Oh forget it I know your too stubborn to listen to me, I'll just take care of them myself." Said Hawkgirl as she charged her mace and flew over the green barrier to engage the enemy.
"By Hera that woman never thinks things true." Said Wonder Woman shaking her head as she too took to the air to aid her teammate.
"Come on Batsy, we don't want to be left out of all of the fun." Said the Flash as he took off in a blur. Batman simply shook his hand and with two batarangs in each hand he too jumped into action.
"You better stay out of sight Bumblebee, we don't want to be seen yet. Hang back with Superman and cover his back." Said Cap as he checked his gun and ran out to the battlefield.
To the Cadmus troops credit when they saw the founders with their weapons coming at them they didn't hesitate in their resolve to take them down. Although if they hadn't been in battle lust and actually took the time to think about it they might have simply surrendered and called it a day. Unfortunally in battle rarely does anyone think clearly.
Not surprisingly the Flash reached the Cadmus troops first. Moving at close to the speed of sound the bullets came no where near him. Then in a blur of punches and kicks a half dozen Cadmus troops found themselves unarmed and kissing the pavement. The others might have attempted to help them but they too faced their own problems. The loudest being the thanagarian warrior Hawkgirl who let out a battle cry that could shatter glass.
"This will teach you for putting me in a cage." She yelled flying downward and bringing her mace down with all her might. She slammed it into a group of Cadmus soldiers and electricity coursed all around them. Three were shocked into submission by the floor being electrified and four others were knocked back through the air by the sheer power of the mace. However Shayera was far from done and as she landed she spun around and crashed her mace into two more Cadmus soldiers knocking them into the side wall and out of the fight.
The Cadmus troops noticed their numbers diminishing but did not stop in their resolve to come out on top. However this was made more frustrating as Wonder woman simply deflected their bullets with her bracelets while walking calmly towards them. Once in range she let loose a powerful left cross to a Cadmus soldiers face. He was out even before his body was propelled backwards knocking down some of his comrades. From there it only got worse for the soldiers as Wonder Woman relentlessly beat them to a pulp. One solider tried to change his tactic and pulled out a knife. He slashed it at the amazons head only to have his wrist grabbed before it reached it destination. He lost the feeling in his hand and the knife dropped out of it. However he quickly overcame his numbness when Wonder Woman twisted his wrist backwards effectively breaking it causing the solider to go to both knees screaming in pain. Screams that were abruptly cut off when her boot crashed into his jaw breaking it as well sending teeth flying from his mouth.
However not all hope was lost for the Cadmus troops. The Ultimen had now just entered the fight. Batman was currently going toe to toe with Downpour and a gaint LongShadow.
"Surrender now Justice League trash. Before I drown you with my awesome powers." Said Downpour shooting twin waves of water from his hand at the Dark Knight.
Batman said nothing in response and did a spinning cartwheel to the left to avoid the water. He then did a spinning roll forward to dodge the giant boot from Longshadow.
"You have no chance little man, surrender and your death will be swift." Said Longshadow laughing at Batman.
Once again the Dark Knight remained silent as he formulated a plan to take down his two powerful foes.
While this was going on Captain America was facing a similar dilemma. The only difference was that his opponents were Juice and Shifter who had turned herself into a T-Rex.
Captain America studied his opponents carefully looking for the right opportunity to strike. However so far he was having little success as Juice body repelled the bullets and the T-Rex skin was too thick for the bullets to penetrate. Beside his knife and three grenades these were the only weapons he had. For a moment he wished he had his trusty shield but knew that Superman needed it more. So instead of being side tracked on what he didn't have he concentrated on what he did.
The T-Rex spinned on its leg sending its massive tail right at him. Cap saw it coming a mile away and jumped over the tail as well as sticking the knife in it. Because of his strength he penetrated the thick hide and held on as the T-Rex waved its tail frantically to get him off. However Cap refused to be thrown off and hung on with all his formidable strength.
"Goddamnit stop moving your tail so fast Shifter so I can get a shot at him." Said Juice unsuccessfully trying to aim at the man on his teammates tail.
Shifter merely growled her response and brought her tail down hard to crush Cap underneath it. However Cap saw the tactic and pulled the knife free and threw himself clear. Then in a fluid motion he rolled on his landing and threw the bloodied knife with all his strength and speed right at Juice's head.
This caught the electric metahuman completely of guard as he had been distracted watching Shifter's tail for a good shot. Therefore all electricity was gathered in his hands and not around his body. And while Juice's armor itself might have stopped the knife itself Cap threw the knife the one place he had none, his mouth.
So before Juice even realized what happen that is exactly what the knife went into and followed through the back of his head. Whatever scream he might have let out was muffled by the blood clogging his throat. The force of the knife knocked him off his feet and he scratched at his mouth and lugs vainly trying to save his life. But it would do the good as his body slowly began to go limp and the world cease to exist around him.
Captain Americas saw what happen and took no pleasure in what he had done. He had looked like a boy but he knew he was a clone built for simple destruction. This however gave him no comfort in his actions. He was brought out of his thoughts by the sound of a growl of rage. He turned to Shifter and knew the rage was directed at him for what he had done. He could understand it and in fact planned on it. People tended to act in haste when angry and not think clearly where normally they might have.
The T-Rex came down at Cap with its mouth opened wide making clear its intent to eat the man alive. Instead of backing up from this threat Cap ran right at it. As the T-Rex brought down its heavy jaws he jumped with all his might over the large mouth. But not before throwing two of his grenades down Shifters mouth before the giant mouth closed the grenades being its only meal.
Cap landed on the T-Rex's back and made no move to jump off as the T-Rex turned its head turning its angry eyes on him.
Shifter saw the man who had killed her teammate simply standing on his back and opened his mouth to let out another roar of rage. But instead of a roar fire and smoke came out of his mouth. Shifter felt a great rumble in her stomach and felt really sick. She was also having trouble breathing and becoming dizzy desperately trying to keep her balance. Shifter had no idea what was happening and felt confused and a little afraid. She wished she had some answers on what was happening to her. Then in her blurred vision she thought she saw the man who she had such rage at a moment ago and knew that he must be the cause for her unbearable pain. Shifter then felt a heavy force crash into her head and thought she felt herself falling shortly before she felt nothing at all.
Captain America retracted his fist and looked down at the slumbering T-Rex. He then noticed the shape started to change and he jumped off as the T-Rex was reduced to a pale young girl. Cap knew the girl had suffered great internal damage put that she would live. The T-Rex's skin had been too tough to attack from the outside so a inside attack was his only option. He then looked around to see how the others were doing and saw Batman finishing up his two.
It hadn't taken Batman long to realize that no matter how powerful these two were they weren't very smart. He had noticed this before when he had taken down Juice in a boiler room a few weeks ago.
He dodged a punch from LongShadow but not before slicing his batarang against the giant hand. Longshadow withdrew his hand in pain and Batman took this opportunity to take on Downpour one on one.
Downpour saw Batman coming right at him and let loose twin streams of water at him. He saw Batman dodge and Downpour followed his path. He didn't notice until it was too late that Longshadow lay in that path as well. The heavy concentration of water hit Longshadow right in his legs and it knocked the giant right off his feet. Downpour was shocked and angry at how he had been tricked and looked to Batman in time to see him throw a batarang at him. He lifted his arms to wash the weapon away but it exploded on contact with his water and it froze it and continued down the water's path to Downpour until his entire body was encased in a block of ice.
Longshadow slowly got to one knee when he saw three small balls roll in front of him. They did exploded in his face and a brown gas came out. So low to the ground Longshadow couldn't avoid the gas and involuntarily brought some of it into his lungs. He immediately tried to stand to get out of range but the damage had already been done. He felt his body go slack and his eyes became heavy. He tried to remain awake but lost the fight and fell to the ground falling fast asleep.
The founders were truly showing their true power in the fight. Even though only five were fighting the small group of soldiers had no chance of victory. Quickly the only opponent left was the Ultimen leader Wind Dragon. He saw the defeat of his team as well as the troops and became angry. He took to the sky and gathered the strong icy winds around his arms intent on still coming out on top.
"No more, you shall all freeze before my might!" He yelled sending his frosty winds down to freeze all in his path.
However his winds didn't get far as Flash stepped in front and rotated his arms in a circle as fast as he could. A giant wind came from them and met the icy winds from Wind Dragon head on.
"Sorry Jr, but its time to put your toys away and call it a day." Said Flash smiling at the Ultimen leader as his winds pushed back that of Wind Dragons.
"This is impossible, I refuse to lose." Said Wind Dragon putting everything he had into it. But this still was not enough and his own icy winds crashed into him encasing him in a block of ice like his teammate Downpour. The ice cube fell to the ground with Wind Dragon's shocked expression inside it.
Noticing that the fight was over for now everyone slowly came together making sure that everyone else was alright.
"Looks like you guys didn't need me after all." Said Superman jokingly still holding on to Cap's shield.
"Nah, these guys were a bunch of amateurs. I can't believe we were actually captured by them." Said Flash wonderingly.
"Any lesser opponent can catch a stronger one when it is a well devised trap. One thing they taught me in the marines is that to never underestimate your opponent no matter what the circumstances. We did and that's why they were able to capture us even though we are stronger." Said the Green Lantern temporally powering down his ring so he could conserve energy.
"John's right, and it's a mistake we won't soon make again once we get out of here." Said Shayera pleased that John had listened to her and was conserving energy.
"We haven't escaped yet and I'm sure they will send more troops down here. After all they would have to anticipate that we might be found and a rescue would be attempted." Commented Wonder Woman.
"True, but I doubt they would have considered a rescue of this magnitude." Said a familiar voice from above.
All the heroes looked up and saw the transparent Martian fly down and land among them. He then became solid and looked around at the family that he had been son long without.
"It is good to see you again my friends." Said J'onn with his emotions barely in check.
The others slowly smiled and walked up to him exchanging in hugs and greetings at seeing him again. That is all did but the Dark Knight. Instead of having his eyes on J'onn and the others his steady gaze was directed at Captain America. Superman was the first to notice and spoke to him.
"Come on Batman, I know your not the sentimental type but it wouldn't kill you to join in."
Batman answered him but kept his eyes on Captain America the entire time.
"In case you haven't noticed we are in enemy territory and these greetings are wasting precious time we need for our escape. Also I would like to here more about our new allies as it seems they have no problem with using lethal force or killing." He said nodding his head towards the Metahuman Juice.
All followed his lead and indeed saw the knife handle sticking out of Juice's mouth and the blood underneath him. There was no doubt in anyone's mind that the intent to kill had been clear. They then turned their attention to the man Batman had indicated who performed the act.
"Yes it was I, and I make no apologizes for the act. I was led to believe this was a war and acted as such. I made it clear to J'onn my methods from the beginning. I do not kill unnecessarily but I will not put my life or any others in jeopardy to simply save a enemies. Also as Batman has pointed out now is not the time for such discussion and if you wish we can discuss once we all are clear of this place." Finished Cap.
The others looked at each other looking as if they had something to say. Wonder Woman was the first to do so.
"He's right, we can discus it later. He did help save all our lives and we owe him at least the chance to listen." She said.
Superman and Batman were both surprised by her defense of Captain America. But both slowly agreed as well as the others that she was right.
"Alright, the rescue teams are making their way down here as we speak. I believe we should continue up and meet them somewhere in the middle. That way we will have Cadmus boxed in with no way to fall back and regroup." Said J'onn.
"I agree, that is the best plan of action. But I still want everyone to be careful. None of us know this base all that well and they could still have traps and weapons that we have yet to see." Cautioned Superman.
"Such as poison gas tanks in the vents and forcefield generators built into the wall to trap people in a certain space?" Asked Atom.
The others looked at him with surprise.
"You have seen such things?" Asked Batman bluntly.
"Not only have I seen them but me and my winged associate have made sure they won't be a problem." Said Atom Confidently making sure not to use Bumble Bee's name out loud in case there were still camera's around.
"How?" asked Shayera.
To that Atom simply smiled.
As the founders and their new allies made their way upwards there was other chaos inside the main control room of Cadmus.
"Damnit, nothing is working!" screamed one of the techs in other frustration.
"The whole system is screwed up, it's starting to crash." Said another.
All throughout the control room the Cadmus scientists and technicians were working hard to stop the Justice League. They viewed monitors and typed in commands to operate the bases automated defenses. All systems had been working perfectly until 3 minutes ago. Now all the systems were going crazy and the computers weren't accepting any commands. Those from the inside the rooms typed constantly to correct the error as others pulled wires to look for the source of the problem. While all this was going on the many view screens inside the room showed the Cadmus soldiers being decimated by the Justice League. With the League attacking from below and above Cadmus was unable to fall back and regroup their tactics. Also with the automated defenses off line that made their job even harder.
"Our men are getting trashed out there. We have to get the bases defenses on line now or all is lost." Said the highest ranking member in the room.
"We are trying sir but nothing we do seems to work. The system isn't responding, at this rate it will soon shut down all together." Said another of the techs.
"Any idea what the problem is?"
"I'm afraid that I do sir."
"Well?"
"Sir, I believe that it may be a virus."
"That's impossible; this system would never allow it or anyone to take over it."
"That is what we were led to be believe sir but the facts speak for themselves." Said the tech waving his hands at the chaos around them.
The officer shook his head and walked over to the battle group showing the layout of Cadmus.
"How much longer until the two groups meet." He asked the group.
The group looked up from their maps and planning to look at him.
"I'm afraid it is only a matter of time. We just don't have the fire power to sustain the kind of attack the Justice League is dishing out. We never counted on them sending so many." Said one of the men shaking his head as he spoke.
"Are you suggesting-
"We have no other choice sir. We must decontaminate the base and destroy all information Cadmus has acquired. The base is lost and this is the only option left to at least achieve some kind of success."
"Do you realize we will be condemning our own men to death as well!" he said shocked.
"With all due respect sir they knew the risks when they signed on. I suggest you get conformation from the General so we can begin the countdown." He said.
"All contact has been lost with General Ross and he is assumed dead. Colonel Adams is now the senior military official of Cadmus."
"Very well, then contact him."
The man shook his head but got out his communicator to tell the Colonel what the military think tank had come up with.
As Colonel Adams got the call he was loading Ms. Waller as well as the rest of the council onto the Sub in Cadmus's underground docking bay. This dock was on no Cadmus floor plans and was known only to a select few in the organization. It was built and maintained in case a situation like this was to occur.
"What is it, I am in the middle of getting the council to safety." Said Adams.
"I apologize sir, but this is urgent. The battle goes poorly and it has been advised that decontamination is the only option left." Came the voice.
Adams briefly closed his eyes as he heard this news. Did they actually want him to give the order to destroy the base! Because that what decontamination meant. Wiping all computer hard drives and blowing the base to hell. He feared it might come to this. True it would destroy many of their enemy since they were here. But he would also be ordering the deaths of his own men. He cursed silently as for once he wished the descion fell on the General instead of him.
"You have conformation, set the countdown for ten minutes. Evacuate and save all the data you can. Tell those you can to go to the escape pods. Don't give it over the announcers or the Justice League will know what is happening." He said as strong as he could.
"Yes sir."
Adams then cut the signal absolutely disgusted with himself. He knew the desecion had to be made but that wouldn't stop the bile from coming up his throat.
"Alright everybody double time. This base is going to blow in ten minutes and we need to be as far away as possible." He said boarding the sub.
Amanda turned around to look at him.
"So things are that bad." She stated not asked.
"Yes." Was Adams simple response as he gave her a light push. He made it clear he would say nothing else and Amanda didn't say another word.
"So I transmitted a virus on Waller's key code I stole to slowly shut down all the automated defenses so it wouldn't be detected until it was too late. Also Bumble Bee cut the lines to the gas tanks so they wouldn't be released." Finished Atom with a smile.
"Very good professor, that should make things easier for us. But we should still stay on our guard." Said Batman keeping his eyes sharp for any more trouble.
They had faced more trouble since the first group but it was nothing they couldn't handle. It seemed that much of Cadmus defenders were going toward the larger group above them. Presently they were on the second level and could hear sounds of battle not too far away. Everyone came to the conclusion that Cadmus was making their last stand and they were about to be reunited with old friends.
"Sounds like the rest of the League is just ahead. We should improve our pace to join up with them and end this battle once and for all." Said J'onn.
"If it was up to me we would already be there. But I have to slow down because you guys are so slow." Whined the Flash.
"Stop being such a baby. We all can't run at the speed of sound you know." Said GL slapping the back of Flash's head.
While the founders continued to exchange words Captain America merely looked on. A small smile came to his face at how much these seven acted like a family. It reminded him of his Avengers and himself. He then slowly frowned at that thought. Not only was he in another dimension but over sixty years had passed since then. Spider-man had told him how the Avengers still existed and were one the strongest forces of good in his world. Also that all past Avengers were honored, especially himself. While happy at this news he was somewhat sadden that all his friends and comrades were gone. He himself was out of date in this new age although so far he had proven otherwise. Even forming a new group of Avengers in this world couldn't distract him from the thought that there was not really a place he belonged anymore.
"Hey stranger, why the frown." Said a voice breaking his thoughts.
Cap looked up and saw that it was Wonder Woman. Except now that unlike in her cell she had her uniform on. It bore similar symbols to his own.
"Just about the past and the things I've missed." He said.
"Like what?" She asked curious.
He looked up at her and then laughed realizing she didn't know his story.
"It's a long story and I'm afraid it will have to wait for another time. Looks like we reached the rest of the gang." Cap said looking ahead.
Wonder Woman had a confused expression on her face but looked ahead. Indeed she saw several members of the Justice League fighting Cadmus soldiers as well as Ulitmen. Cadmus was backing up from the onslaught having no idea what was behind them.
"Looks like this party is coming to an end." Said Shayera raising her mace and flying into battle.
J'onn looked at her with a smile on his usually emotionless face.
"Something's never change." He said as he and the others flew off to join the battle as well.
If Cadmus thought they had it bad before it was nothing compared to now. They were now fighting the combined might of the Justice League and its founders from both sides. They had no time to be surprised as they started dropping like flies. Nothing even the Ultimen stood a chance against this attack. Fire, lighting, ice, water, ice, rocks, lasers, beams, punches, and kicks came from all directions. To Cadmus credit they never surrendered. Though is such a losing battle that could be considered more stupidity than actual bravery. All too soon not a Cadmus defender was left standing. The Justice League stood tall as one united front.
"Looks like you haven't become slackers in your time off." Said Wildcat being the first to speak to their captured leaders.
"Not so bad yourself old man." Said Lantern as congratulations went all around. Many voices talked at once and it was hard to tell who was saying what. Yet one didn't talk as his eyes glowed showing his thoughts were elsewhere. His eyes then dimmed and he yelled so he could be heard over all.
"We must leave immediately, Cadmus has set a self destruction sequence and we only have six minutes left."
"What are you talking about J'onn?" asked Superman.
"I sensed quite a few Cadmus troops leaving and searched their mind for the reason. That is how I know what I say is true." He said.
"Then we have to get out of here and fast. Grab what Cadmus soldiers you can but leave the clones." Ordered Batman.
"Maybe it isn't too late for me to reprogram the self destruct. After all the virus went through-
"No time to find a terminal and find out professor. We have to move to the platform where we can all be teleported out." Said Batman cutting him off.
"He's right; Cadmus has left us no other option." Said Superman.
The others quickly did as they were told and carried as many soldiers they could up to the platform. The process took little over 4 minutes when they reached the top.
"One minute and a half lets go people." Yelled J'onn.
By the dozens Justice League members and Cadmus soldiers alike were transported to the Watchtower above. They were then quickly moved off to make room to beam more people up. The Cadmus soldiers were put aside and guarded to make sure they didn't cause any trouble. The process moved very quickly until only the founders and Captain America were left.
"There is still more down there, we can't just leave them." Cried Flash.
"Only 20 seconds Flash we have no choice." Said J'onn.
"Sorry kid we did all we could." Said Green Lantern putting his arm over Flash's shoulder.
Flash looked down and sulked but made no other protests.
"Now." Said Superman and the final eight were beamed up into space.
Seconds later Cadmus exploded from within. Fires broke out through all corridors, beams fells. The Cadmus soldiers and clones that were left were incarnated by the hot blaze. Mercifully most had been unconscious and never felt the scorching death. However there were those who were awake and screamed uselessly as their bodies were turned to ash by the inferno that they had once called home. The desert itself shook from the blast since it was underground. The small towns that had been miles away thought it some kind of earthquake. So did the satellites going over that area of space. Only those of Cadmus and the Justice League knew the true cause.
Superman slammed his hands against the wall seeing the destruction on the live feed from the Watchtower.
"Damn them, all those people for nothing." He said paying no attention to the pain it caused his hands.
"This makes the second devastation they have caused in their defeat. I have yet to tell you of the other disaster caused by a clone of Flash." Added J'onn.
At this Flash's mouth opened in horror before he sped from the room not wanting anyone to see his tears.
"This can not continue to go on. In their foolish attempt to hunt us they are destroying countless lives in the process. We have to bring this war to an end." Said Wonder Woman.
"I agree, and that is where I come in." Said Captain America.
"So we finally hear your story." Said Batman.
"Yes, and it is one that will bring an end to Cadmus and the threat they represent." Said Cap.
TBC
Hoped you enjoyed the chapter as I tried to include as much action and drama as possible. Next chapter will include the founders being updated on what is happening and their opinions of the new Avengers. Also you will see more of the villains from the other universe and just what plans Cadmus has for them. Hope you didn't forget about them because Cadmus is far from defeated.