The Justice Guild
CHP25: Group Resolution
The alarms were sounded, loud and seemingly everywhere. That however didn't stop him, only one objective on his mind and wasn't going to stop until it was accomplished. It played over and over in the back of his mind and had Starfire listened wouldn't be in the present predicament. Wonder Girl following and getting caught up in it all was also unfortunate and even questioned the way he went about handling the circumstance. Though super beings and could travel in ways no ordinary individual could, was still unacceptable from his standpoint. It was a wakeup call to be more aware of his surroundings and Zatanna being in the building added to that. From that point looked to do a better job at feeling out his environment.
Around the corner appeared another round of security officials carrying staffs, which had glowing pointers at either end. Batman maneuvered from side to side eluding the blasts in which were fired in his direction. The squad of fifteen was relentless and forced him to go on the offence, throwing down smoke bombs. Batarangs came in handy as well; chucking out a few and even disarming a couple guards in the process. Two managed to get in close enough swinging their staffs around but taken down by the dark knight's superior in close combat. Zatanna took care of the rest speaking a couple words backwards and what remained of them were engulfed in miniature sized tornadoes.
Batman took the opportunity to take off with Zatanna right behind, the cell block not far from his position. Even so the sounds of footsteps approaching from the nearby staircases on both sides was clear, even over the alarms. If he didn't get to where he needed fast might end up captured. Using her magic again Zatanna created two 12' tall walls blocking the path of both staircases.
"What the hell's going on, something's blocking our course!"
"Yes I see, but I don't ever remember this being here! We're gonna have to reroute and find another way before the intruder causes possible damage or escapes." Another added staring directly at the steel wall.
It wasn't something he'd say aloud but Zatanna being there proved beneficial. Her abilities were proving useful, which came as no surprise. Still if had it his way would rather she not involve herself, especially with the strong possibility of being labeled criminals if the mission was a success. Upon turning the corner the entrance door to cell block D was right there before their eyes. Batman dashed forward in an attempt to smash it open but electrified as he came within inches of it! The force knocked him a couple yards back. His suit was electric resistant so didn't suffer much damage, standing upright.
"There's a magical barrier in front of the entrance." Zatanna stepped passed him.
"Can you bring it down?"
"Leave it to me."
She took another couple steps extending her hand making contact with the invisible force, and in doing so knew exactly what type magical barrier was active. Unlike Batman was unaffected by direct contact. Far as magic was little to nothing he could do, essentially out of his area of strength. Her abilities again proved vital and even questioned how he'd have went about things without her. For the next couple seconds waited, anticipating there would be more guards on the way. To his surprise didn't happen and was fortunate for them. Zatanna's eyes gave off a bright white glow and just as quickly returned to normal.
"It's down, there should be no problems." Zatanna inquired.
"Good work."
The invisible barrier was no longer there like she said, and the door itself locked. That came as no surprise and utilized a small item from inside his belt. In seconds the four locks were melted away and forced open using his shoulder. He and Zatanna entered the large space side by side, several prisoners staring down at them. They walked only a couple steps before someone called out their names.
"Batman, Zatanna over here!"
Out to the left on the 2nd level were Wonder Girl and Starfire. There were six cells between them; Batman throwing one arm around Zatanna and grappling them over the railing.
"What are you guys doing here?!" Wonder Girl shouted.
"Getting you out of here." Batman replied.
The same entrance Zatanna and Batman used swung open with dozens of guards raiding the entire cell block. Another door on the other side of the room flew open with even more security entering and looked to be at least one hundred of them by Zatanna's estimation.
"You shouldn't have come here, we would have eventually been found innocent and let go." Starfire said.
"Not on my count." Batman replied whilst surveying the massive group below.
In hindsight looked like a no escape situation but had been in much worse.
"Intruders surrender now or prepare to suffer the consequences. You have exactly ten seconds to do so." The leading guard emphasized.
Zatanna looked to Batman and without saying anything knew exactly what was on his mind.
"I'm on it." She grinned tilting her hat.
In a couple words a pool of water came down over the group carrying them out of the doors, colliding and tumbling over one another. The move bought them additional time to do what they needed. It had been a while since she had used her magic in such fashion that it brought about a sickness to her stomach. Whatever Starfire and Wonder Girl were accused of was positive they weren't guilty of. Still the way Batman went about things, and having to fight off law enforcement just didn't sit well with her. The role of a vigilante wasn't the way she wanted to be perceived; always having the law chasing after them. Had it been anyone other than Batman would have put a stop to it the instant she entered the building. There was a magic blockade surrounding each individual cell, much like the one they bypassed when breaking through. The caped crusader and magician worked together; Zatanna disposing of the magical presence while Batman deciphered the security code on a nearby panel.
Wonder Girl was the first of their teammates freed, but by then the guards were shooting at them from down below. During all the commotion some of them began making their way up to the 2nd level using the stairs halfway across the room. Zatanna ducked down as they fired in her direction. She held back from using further magic so not to get anyone hurt. Only if the situation became dire and had no other choice would she result to it.
"You two better work quickly; I'll hold them off for long as I can." Wonder Girl said.
She shielded them from all the laser and magical beams being shot their way. Some of the projectiles collided with her head on but managed knocking most in either direction using her arms. Before she knew it gazed over her shoulder and Starfire was free, unable to hold back a smirk.
"Ok so we escape, then what? We will now be labeled as criminals and I don't like the idea of living in seclusion and on the run! I hope you two have a good reason for doing this." Wonder Girl said.
"You're welcome." Batman replied.
Security was closing in on them rapidly.
"Control room we've got an update, and secure the building's perimeter. We have not yet identified the intruders but have released two prisoners." One official communicated with others throughout the building.
"Time to go." Batman leaped off the railing.
He used a grapple gun swinging across the room smashing through a window. Starfire wrapped her arms around Zatanna's waist taking off with Wonder Girl right behind. They followed after Batman ending up on the prison's lawn nearly 20 feet below. Lights of all sorts flashed on them; several weapons aimed their way as well! The night's events weren't exactly falling in place the way he planned.
"I'm willing to bet this whole fiasco was Batman's idea," Wonder Girl went on, "So world's greatest detective what's your plan for getting out of this? Yeah we could just pass them with brute force, but then they'd have a legitimate reason to lock us up. Don't you have an answer for every situation, if so than let's hear it?!"
"Prisoners and intruders we've got the entire space surrounded. There is no chance of escape, give yourselves up now or be shot down where you stand." One guard spoke through a speaker.
Starfire watched as Batman detached something from the back of his belt. She was unable to make out exactly what it was but looked to be a folder filled with possible documents. Wonder Girl didn't notice initially but when taking a closer look spotted him amongst the first row of guards.
"That's him! That's Eyrq Vanchill, the leader of the council unit we encountered back in Oak Town."
"Yeah you're right. What is he doing here; I thought he was stationed in Oak Town." Starfire added.
Batman took a couple steps positioning in front of his teammates.
"You three stay here." The dark knight began his way toward the barricade of security out in front of them. They had no clue what was on his mind but did exactly as instructed. The security officials were unsure of his intentions, so kept their weapons aimed at him. Overhead was a piercing sound through the sky grabbing the attention of everyone including Batman. Security even took aim as someone or something approached from the skies and slowed as it drew nearer.
"It can't be…that, that…I think it's Superman!" One shouted.
"Superman?" Someone beside him asked.
"You aren't serious are you?! His pictures have been all over, he's the guy that took down Elztepiax or whatever it was. He's been my little girl's inspiration since then, but I can't imagine what he'd be doing here." Another added.
Their suspicions were quickly answered as the one in blue armor, S symbol over the chest, with red boots and cape touched down a couple yards in front of the dark knight. He gazed over his shoulder.
"You've got some explaining to do. I know this couldn't have been Zatanna's idea."
"Things are under control, you aren't needed." Batman insisted.
"I'll pass." Superman replied.
Wonder Girl, Zatanna and Starfire couldn't believe Superman had made his way onto the scene. No matter what happened from there, the situation was about to get a whole lot more interesting. Batman moved past Superman and headed toward the crowd together. Some of the guards lowered their weapons with mixed emotions.
"What the hell is the meaning to all this?!" The leading sergeant inquired.
"Your firm wrongfully locked up two of our own," Batman tossed the folder into the arms of the sergeant. Members of the magic council and other magic experts were also present, "If you look through will find Franzco Grillmore isn't who everyone thought him to be. If you're wondering what this has to do with anything he's the reason those two were locked up in your facility." Batman pointed back at Starfire and Wonder Girl.
It was at that time Eyrq took notice of them for the first time. He situated beside the sergeant.
"Ah ha so you must be the Batman Franzco was blabbing about. Do not listen to this man sergeant Whei, he is an associate to the notorious Taw Taw mage!"
"Try again. Look over the papers and you will see Taw Taw A.K.A Ken Druke is under Grillmore's payroll by deposits to his account. I won't go into all the details but will see he's also sent recent payments to a handful of employees here and even in the magic council. And if that isn't enough worked closely with Phil Trower who is currently behind bars."
Sweat ran down the side of Eyrq's head at the reveal and wanted to take a look for himself staring over the sergeant's shoulder. Page upon page of info was before them but organized most the important stuff atop the pile. The intensity was felt throughout and for the next two to four minutes the sergeant skimmed over some of the information. In total between the police, security and magic council had to be over four hundred persons around the building. The sergeant exhaled running a hand over the side of his face. As a result of what he looked over, Eyrg accidently bit down on his tongue.
"Well it would appear based on this information what you have told us is correct. I was present when those two were brought in and booked," Sergeant Whei's eyes fell upon both Starfire and Wonder Girl, "I would ask how you gathered this much information seeing that it was overlooked and or not known to our main firms. It is especially fascinating given Grillmore's active charities and public events."
The sergeant fell soundless for an instant looking to the one opposite of Batman.
"I take it you're the mage responsible for the defeat of that dark guild. On the behalf of the king and everyone to this kingdom I thank you. That said, what brings you here and now of all places. We're more than capable of handling things here."
Supes took a step forward straightening his posture.
"I'd hardly fall under the category of mage, but yes I am the one you speak of. And I'm here because of them," Superman only slightly looked back, "They're associates of mine. I'm sorry for the trouble Batman might have caused your prison, his way of doing things are how could you say…different."
Eyrq's throat went dry due to the reveal Batman was a comrade of Fiore's most talked about super being. Much of the surrounding guards were also in disbelief, dozens more lowering their weapons.
"I however didn't come here to help them escape, just making sure no further violence erupts on either side. As to why they were imprisoned I'm unclear. I didn't become aware of the circumstance until after the arrests, and would appreciate an explanation." Superman said.
"A later time perhaps." Batman interrupted.
The sergeant closed the folder taking a deep breath. Whatever happened from that point was up to him, the decision in his hands. There was a lot to take in account and considered everything before making a final verdict. The remaining individuals that held their weapons high lowered them in that moment. It was more than apparent the situation wasn't life threatening or dire. Whei looked back and forth between Superman and Batman.
"Whether your friends were innocent or not doesn't change the reality you attempted breaking them free and is a criminal act. You dealt physical punishment to my security as well, and that my friend is unacceptable."
The sergeant stared Batman directly in the eyes. He again went silent before clearing his throat.
"That said…I'm willing to overlook this incident."
"But Sergeant!" Eyrq interrupted.
"No buts, this is my decision and its final! Your actions here are still inexcusable, and had it been any other situation would have you behind bars." Whei focused on Batman, "I will take a look at these files of yours in depth. Know that if you try something like this again or try and take the law into your own hands I will personally hunt you down. It is only because of him I will let you off this once." Whei pointed to Superman.
Batman turned around and began his way in the opposite direction.
"Hold on!" The dark knight stopped at the sound of Eyrq's voice, "I was there the night you and your buddies showed up at Grillmore's place. It seems the two of them spoke the truth. If you want to go after criminals like Taw Taw and Grillmore then do it the right way! Join the force, apply to the council or…or become a member to a guild. There's also the option creating one of your own. However there are steps you must take to ensure it is legitimate; otherwise you're nothing more than vigilantes."
He froze for an instant before continuing toward Zatanna and company. Sergeant Whei officially called for all his men to stand down, Eryg doing the same. Many of the guards positioned from afar wondered if they heard correctly. No way would the prison general let the intruders escape! In the fastest way he could Batman explained the situation to Zatanna, Wonder Girl and Starfire. Not long after took to the rooftops. Supes thanked both the sergeant Whei and Eyrq before taking off with his teammates.
"This move could potentially cost you your job…" Eryq murmured.
"Yes, I am aware of that. If I had to do it all over wouldn't change a thing. If that Superman guy didn't show up when he did who knows what sort of shape this kingdom might have been in. Yes there were still plenty of towns and guilds that hadn't fallen, but the odds didn't look good."
"Are you truly assuming that one man has more power than perhaps the Fairy Tail guild or even Sabretooth? I don't think so."
"Maybe…maybe not. We will likely never know, but the important thing is the kingdom of Fiore is safe. If at all possible let's not let the night's events reach the public."
XXX
The sun was out and did nothing but stare down at the trees, and town of Magnolia. From where he sat the view couldn't be more splendid. His thoughts however were anything but, and couldn't rid the horrific visuals from his mind no matter how much he tried. It wasn't just the dying man but all the other bodies and just couldn't understand who in their right mind would commit such a horrific crime. And even then had no clue if whatever the cause was even human.
Holidayz was the single word trapped in his mind. But that was all they had, and the first time he'd ever heard the name. Not only did he take the job but other law enforcement was also on the case and from rumor didn't know any more than he or Mirajane. They shared what they heard from the lone victim and seemed to be the only thing anyone had to go off. His nerves were running thin and the idea of being so in the dark on the matter didn't help. With clinched fists punched at the roof's surface.
"I've been looking all over for you, what in the world are you doing up here?" A mage in silver armor with long red hair approached.
"Good evening to you as well Scarlet."
"Don't worry I'm not staying long, just here to inform you Gray and myself will be replacing Mirajane in your mission. Mira elected out of the job earlier this afternoon. I'm sure she had her reasons and after hearing some of the details for myself don't blame her. Because of the unknown the master has decided the three of us work this case together." Erza informed.
Laxus crossed his arms glimpsing into the sky before giving Erza a quick look, "Fine by me just as long as we get to those bastards before they dish out any further damage."
Titania grinned sharing the same outlook and attitude.
Two days passed since the prison break and from that time had a lot on his mind. There was one thing in particular and would eat at him until he at least got it out in the open. Cassandra was the first to arrive followed by Diana and Zatanna. Within the hour everyone was present except Conner and Bruce. The wait went on for another thirty and when neither showed Clark decided to begin the meet without them. The day following the prison episode Starfire explained in depth to everyone what led to her arrest dating back to when she first got on Batman's trail. With that out of the way answered any questions anyone had.
The sun appeared ready to set over the mountain side and wouldn't be long before nightfall. There was a slight breeze from the west, which was refreshing given the amount of heat presented throughout the day. Other than the five of them the park was empty except for a couple birds.
"I'll try and make this quick as possible," Clark went on opposite of the group. Diana, Kori and Zatanna sat over a bench, while Cassandra stood off to the side of them, "Hear what I have to say before commenting or voicing an opinion."
Kal El took a deep breath thinking about how he'd put his thoughts into words.
"Yes I am quite aware of the situation surrounding the Ovatrector and we've done a great job keeping it hidden thus far. But I have to believe we've approached things incorrectly in many ways. Keeping the rock away from them does hinder their plans, but it also keeps us away from our home world; away from what we were meant to do. Not long ago my mindset was just the opposite but recent events have opened my eyes."
"Opened your eyes to what?" Diana questioned.
"When that dark guild came onto the scene initiating its attack on Fiore, Superboy came to me. I didn't want to hear any of what he had to say at the time, but he was right. I should have confronted and put a stop to Elztepiax much sooner than I did. True, I was right in saying this wasn't our world and therefore not our problem but…we're beings of special gifts. Helping those in need is what we do, no matter the planet or world. Even if we do put ourselves in an exposed position, it is for the better. I have no doubt Neisa and CO will come after us, but it is our duty to keep the rock away from them until we find a way to dispose of it properly."
"Could you be more straightforward I'm not sure I follow." Cassandra said.
The kryptonian ran a finger through his hair and didn't speak for an extended period.
"There's no reason for us to hide any longer. Maintaining civilian identities is still important but from this point on am suggesting we become a team," Supes perceived the empty expressions each of them gave off. It was obvious they did not follow entirely, "Or more accurately a guild."
Starfire's mouth shot open, whilst Wonder girl's throat went dry and Zatanna froze. Diana was also taken off guard but couldn't hide a smile.
"If that's what you want than I'm all for it," The princess stood from the bench, "Much as I've loved living the normal life, it just isn't a warrior's calling."
"You can count me in as well, I feel just as Diana." Starfire added.
Wonder Girl and Zatanna agreed just as quickly bringing a grin to Clark's face. Every decision they made would result in a consequence and Superman was willing and ready to handle whatever head on.
"Ok so how exactly does this work? I mean do we just gather up, create a base and then pooooffff we're a guild?" Cassandra inquired.
"No, there is more to it than that. I will speak with the magic council directly to find out what." Clark replied.
"What about a name…we can't create a guild without first having a name! How about Titan heroes, or maybe Super Mages, or guild of power?" Starfire went on.
"I vote Guild of Justice." Someone spoke from above.
The entire group looked up as Conner touched down no more than five yards away.
"I heard most everything, sorry I'm late." The half kryptonian smirked.
"Guild of Justice huh," Zatanna threw her hair back, "I like that but the phrase Justice Guild might even be catchier."
Conner gave his approval with a simple nod, and went without saying there could be no other name.
"Justice Guild it is," Clark looked to Cassandra and Zatanna, "Between the two of you try and find Bruce and update him. In the meantime the rest of you are free to go. I'm going to head out to the council's main headquarters and see what we can do to make this thing official."
To Be Continued