Chapter Twenty-Six: Knightfall Part Three.
Bad to worse, that appeared to have been how Lelouch's fortune had been of late. The only good fortune he can say he had in the days since his exile were his and Nunnally's adoption. He had found new family in Scott and Barda, real family, the old one being filled with villains and monsters. As proof by the transformations of Schneizel, Clovis, and now Odysseus.
Lelouch sat in the bunker, where he and Robin had placed Urabe, refusing to risk taking him to Blackhawk Island. He didn't trust that the man wasn't some kind of Trojan horse manipulated by the Joker. And while it was a risk to bring him into the bunker, when weighed against the potential loss of Blackhawk Island, all the resources and manpower he had acquired it was a fairly acceptable risk. Made all the more compact by how Nunnally and Kallen's mother were hidden there.
Of course it was all part of a trap, but Lelouch had been trained by the greatest escape artist of three worlds. There was no trap he could get out of, he was sure of it. So for now there was the many other issues at hand.
"Shiro Ito, the man responsible for the destruction of the Japanese Liberation Front," said Lelouch, examining the various screens before him. "Now leading an attack while backed by the Chinese Federation, and most likely Vandal Savage. The Joker and his associate Bane spreading chaos between Japanese and Britannians. And Odysseus has woken up and joined his family of monsters as his true self, arresting Euphemia and Cornelia and sentencing them to death."
Lelouch was relaying this throughout the comm, keeping everyone informed of the situation.
"That bastard," Suzaku's voices. "I'm on my way I can..."
"No, your power is needed in Kyushu, we're not entirely sure what Savage might have lent the Chinese Federation," said Lelouch. "Another test to see if we are strong enough to counter Brainiac. With Odysseus clearing out Cornelia's supporters before Cornelia herself we've lost the support of the Britannian military in Japan. The Blackhawks stationed here are stretched thin as is trying to keep the peace given all the riots the Joker has started. The stronger members of the League will be needed to counter this invasion."
"What about Hawk and Dove?" asked Tohdoh.
"Big brother please you have to save them," Nunnally's voice came in pleading.
Lelouch said nothing, thinking about how to properly handle this situation. He had too few pieces left on the board. Even Scott and Barda would have to go to Kyushu, Mother Box was detecting Apokoliptian technology in the area. Massive amounts at that so they would be needed.
But if he took time to go save Cornelia and Euphemia, he wouldn't be able to stay to look into Urabe to try and find the Joker. He might lose the scent and Joker could get away again.
"Lelouch, I know your mind is set on hunting the Joker," Barda's voice came in.
Lelouch could hear the concern in her voice.
"I understand your hatred for him, the pain he has caused you," said Barda. "But more important than your pain and your obligation to avenge it is your obligation to our family. That includes Cornelia and Euphie. I've decided to claim them."
Lelouch gasped slightly, realizing the implications of this. Barda was now going to accept Cornelia and Euphemia as her daughters.
"And I support my wife's choice, as always," Scott's voice came through.
Nunnally, Scott, and Barda, all whom Lelouch considered true family were now pleading for him to throw his desire for the Joker aside for the sake of Cornelia and Euphemia. Inside of him three parts of himself were voicing themselves.
One voice was the Batman, that knight who fought for a dark justice which demanded that he hunt the Joker to the ends of the Earth and throw all who would distract him aside.
Another was Lelouch Free as he was now, the dutiful son and brother.
The third was one Lelouch thought long dead. The voice of Lelouch in his youth when he would play with Euphie under Cornelia's watch. That voice brought to mind all the love and joy he felt with his sisters.
Lelouch looked over at the cowl of the Batman, sitting on the computer top glaring at him with furious eyes as if to condemn him for ever thinking of being anything but the Batman. That Lelouch, either Lelouch Free of the present or the Lelouch Vi Britannia of the past were nothing but false faces. That there was only the Batman and his mission was all that was real. That everything else were falsehoods. Even the concept of a family.
"Batman? What are we going to do?" Rolo asked.
Lelouch took the cowl in hand and proceeded to stand.
"We're leaving Robin," he said as he put on the Cowl.
"Sweet, race you to the Batmobile," said Rolo, putting on his mask.
"No," said Batman. "We're going to need something...bigger."
"I understand your request," said Savage. "However I should mention that it will bring some disappointment to...her."
"Perhaps, but since Charles had made himself useless to me with his foolishness I am forced to make an alternative claim," said Darkseid.
"Yes," said Savage. "Very well, you can have the boy. He'll soon be ready if the plans of that lunatic work. Keep in mind he will be somewhat...damaged."
"So long as he lives," said Darkseid. "That is all I need for now."
"Then I will need aid in dealing with his adoptive parents," said Savage. "The gift you provided will serve as a distraction but..."
"Yes, my own adopted son and my wayward commander would be an issue," said Darkseid.
"Mostly the former," said Savage. "The latter is much more brawn and I know someone who will be able to keep her distracted for a good long time. She may even enjoy it."
"Then the issue is keeping Scott indisposed," said Darkseid.
"Not an easy thing for the greatest escape artist of three worlds," said Savage.
As the two despots walked along Darkseid's throne room DeSaad walked in and bowed before Darkseid and his guest.
"I believe I have a solution for that issue, oh great one," he said.
"Speak," said Darkseid.
"The issue of how to trap a man who can escape for many prison is quite elementary great Darkseid," said DeSaad. "Make the prison one he never wants to leave."
DeSaad reached beneath his robes and showed his master the tool with which to use.
"Yes," said Darkseid. "I believe that will do nicely."
When the communication line went down Kallen silently prayed that Lelouch was making the right choice. While she wasn't glad that he was being forced to go along with the plans of Joker and Savage, by going after Cornelia and Euphemia it could perhaps it would help focus him on something other than the Joker. His hatred for his half-brother was consuming him, driving his exhaustion, and forcing him to play into their game. But now that Barda had acknowledged them as hers Lelouch, for all his remaining issue with them, he could not ignore the wishes of his mother. His true mother as it might as well have been given the truth of Marianne.
"Are we there yet?" Barda roared.
"Almost darling," said Scott, piloting the ship the group was using. "I promise we'll get this resolved quickly and get back to him."
"We had better," said Barda. "I do not like leaving him virtually vulnerable with that thing loose. And now we have another one. And we're being drawn out according to their plans. I don't like this."
"Neither do I but as bad as Joker and Odysseus are if Darkseid is giving more weapons and materials to Savage we can't just ignore it," said Scott.
The facts of the matter didn't stop Barda from angrily pacing back and forth. Taking the initiative, Kallen reached out and caught her hand. Barda glanced over at Kallen and their eyes locked. Lelouch's mother and lover tightened their grip on each others hands.
Cornelia and Euphemia were clamped back to back on a metal post, their mouths gagged by their prisoner jackets. Just like Suzaku was some time ago, they along with their supporters, Nonette included, they were being paraded throughout the city streets. Odysseus had ordered martial law by arresting Cornelia he had taken up the image as a bringer of law to the frightened Britannian citizens. Punishing the traitorous princesses who sided with the Justice League against the Empire.
At the base of the post the sisters were tied to was a great gathering of kindling. Odysseus was planning to burn the both of them. A part of Cornelia couldn't help but appreciate the poetic justice of it. Just as much as she was called the Goddess of Victory she was also known as the Witch of Britannia. And now she was going to get a Witch's death. Given how she had been a pawn in the machinations of Savage, spreading his influence over the world, she couldn't deny that perhaps she was deserving of such a fate. But Euphie didn't, and if there was any true justice left in the world she would be spared.
She looked at how the route had been planned out. Odysseus was intentionally leading them down the same route Suzaku had been led down for his execution. He was attempting to draw out the others. It was a stupid and reckless plan but as had been previously demonstrated by the man, Odysseus was not in his right mind. At least when insane Schneizel still proved to be a competent strategist. Of course she'd have liked to believe that this would work in her favor. That any moment now she and her sister would be rescued.
But considering Lelouch's attitude towards them, she doubted he'd be too concerned. They were just pawns, liabilities to the cause. And perhaps in his heart Lelouch had never forgiven Cornelia for abandoning him and Nunnally. Perhaps this was all her time of judgement, why even the so called Wrath of God in the form of the Spectre did not take notice of her when they were in the same room.
"What the hell?" one of the soldiers escorting her and Euphie to their execution site.
Cornelia looked up and saw a massive tank-like vehicle approaching their convoy. On its front looked something almost like the face of a bat.
'How many secret weapons does he have?' Cornelia asked mentally.
The Knightmares guarding them opened fire on the large bat-tank which continued on without issue. Opening fire in response from the large cannon in its mouth. It shout out at the weapons of the Knightmares, destroying them and causing enough damage to force the pilots to eject. The ground soldiers attempted to get to Cornelia's supporters to use as human shields but other smaller turrets from the tank shot out at them with pinpoint accuracy.
"Rubber bullets, promise," Batman's voice came through the loud speakers.
Robin came out the top hatch of the tank and leapt onto the convoy as a fire-man began to make his way to Cornelia and Euphie's post, ready to lite them ablaze. Robin was faster though and tossed out a Batarang which lodged into the barrel of the man's flamethrower. When he went to grab his side arm Robin fired a grappled which impaled the man's shoulder. It drew him in where Robin then delivered a spin-kick to the man's face.
"Saving princesses," Robin muttered. "I love this job."
More soldiers began to approach and Robin quickly regained his focus. He rushed over to the post the princesses were clasped to and cut at their gags.
"Hawk," Cornelia yelled.
"Dove," Euphemia cried out.
The two of them transformed and burst free. Robin and Dove went to secure the others while Hawk vented her frustrations on the oncoming soldiers with cover fire provided from the large machine.
Arriving at Kyushu the Justice League found it to be oddly quiet. Although Superman verified that indeed Chinese Federation forces were inbound.
"They'll be here soon," said Superman.
"So the news was only partially fabricated," said Hawkman.
"We knew this was a trap from the beginning," said Queen Shazam.
"I prefer to think of it as an invitation," Savage's voice rang through as a giant hologram of him appeared before them.
"Savage," Hawkman growled.
"Khufu," Savage acknowledged. "I'm going to make this quite simple. I'm giving you this one offer to join me of your own free will. All past transgressions forgiveness if you will help me in my endeavors to uplift humanity to its rightful place in the universe. To place man above the gods."
"After all the shit you did to Japan you think we're going to even think about that asshole," yelled Tamaki.
"Your playing with fire bringing Brainiac to Earth," yelled Superman. "You know what he's capable of and you did it anyway."
"A necessary risk, but I am confident in that he will find destruction when he comes to Earth," said Savage. "As have other invaders from the past. Of course some like yourself managed to slip through the cracks. I have kept the Earth safe from many an invasion. I have kept the invaders from the dark at bay, ever since Darkseid first came."
"And then you chose to deal with him," said Barda. "Darkseid cannot be trusted. He is only using you as a pawn in his game against Highfather."
"I have no illusions that it was anything else," said Savage. "But I am using him as well. Thanks to his generosity, for lack of a better word, I have helped lead humanity to where it is now."
"Divided," said Green Lantern.
"Not for long," said Savage. "Very soon we shall have that which humanity has been wanting for so long. A world united, one Earth, one people with a singular goal."
"To wipe out Britannia," said Green Lantern.
"To preserve the planet, Britannia is simply a sacrificial lamb," said Savage. "It has done what I have bred it for."
"Please, don't do this," Ohgi pleaded. "You build Britannia, they're practically your children."
"I've raised many nations and many children over the centuries," said Savage. "I've even had a hand in Japan's history. Once long ago I tried to invade this nation right here in Kyushu back when I was leading the Mongols. It was then I learned of the great warrior spirit in Japan. Years later I used the preferred method. I integrated myself into the nation just as it was in a state of chaos and began its unification. The first Great Unifier, Oda Nobunaga, that was my alias."
Gasps of shock came from the Japanese in their number.
"Of course that was a long time ago," said Savage. "The downside of my immortality is that I cannot be everywhere at once. And the influence I can have can be limited. By the time I was done as Nobunaga in Japan I had moved on. To Britannia as my next project. I just stuck around there more. If I stayed in Japan with out a doubt I would have turned it into what Britannia is now. In fact, I sort of have. Japan more than any other Area I've noticed, has slowly become the Shadow of Britannia. The hate and intolerance of the Britannians is reflected well in the Japanese. And now from what I hear, they're taking full advantage of the weakened state of Britannia. Just like I'm sure the boy realized. And my, how he has been busy."
"Stay away from my son you monster," Barda yelled.
"Not really yours," said Savage. "If anything by right both he and his sister are my property. Children of the Society, spawned from my most powerful lieutenant, and she is quite eager to see them again."
Kallen gasped at what Savage had stated. It meant that Lelouch's birth mother Marianne, was still alive.
"But we're off topic," said Savage. "We're about to witness the birth of a truly unified world. A world in which political borders are non-existent and all mankind shall be as brothers in arms. Can you truly say you wish to stand against such a world?"
"It's a world unified by hate and fear," yelled Lantern. "I could never support such a world."
"And you're destroying an entire portion of the human race in the process," yelled Queen Shazam.
"Humanity's hatred is its defining trait," said Savage. "It cannot be eradicated or ever truly depleted. But it can be controlled and directed. Once humanity has something to hate more than itself, unity will be finally be achieved."
"That's complete madness," said Scott.
"Ah, Highfather's boy," said Savage. "I'm sure you and Charles had quite the confrontation. Utter disappointment that boy, but his seed has proven useful, all of them in one way or another."
Scott narrowed his eyes at the hologram while Barda continued to seethe with rage.
"But Charles served his purpose in the end, as did Britannia," said Savage. "They have the hatred of the world collected towards them. And once it is revealed that Charles sold the world to Brainiac, they will be excised from the human race. What is left will build to a glorious unified future for mankind. A world where nationality and race no longer matter as instead we intermingle with one another to develop into higher beings meant to stand atop the universal ladder. Can I truly be called a villain if this is my goal? Is bettering the human race such an evil act?"
"Your 'bettering' of humanity is nothing more than creating better beasts of burden for Darkseid to use as he sees fit," yelled Barda.
"Only if he wins," said Savage. "If you were to join me not only could I ensure the safety of your adopted children, but you would have a better chance than ever to destroy Darkseid. The rest of you would also be welcome. Oppose me and you will be opposing the will of the world. Instead of fighting an oppressor of the masses, you will be fighting the will of the oppressed masses. You've already begun to see how that is going to play out in Japan. By choosing to safeguard Britannian lives you have lost the trust of the Japanese, who are desperate to drink deep of the blood of their oppressors. To hear the sweet songs of their women and children being raped and slaughtered, a song I intend to play for them as they spill so much Britannian blood into the seas that the sharks will swim in an eternal euphoria. It's beautiful in a sense, the hatred of humanity. It gives us all such strength. Such drive and focus that it can enough to earn the interest of the divine. Perhaps even their ire and fear."
"Darkseid doesn't fear anything," said Scott.
"And you're wrong about us," said Queen Shazam. "About the Japanese. You're just wrong."
"You're wasting your time Savage," said Hawkman. "You'll find no converts among us. You will answer for all you have done."
"All I have done? Once again Khufu you keep your head firmly in the past," said Savage "I look towards the future. A pity you do not wish to share it."
"Are we done?" asked Queen Shazam.
"Yeah asshole, and you're going to need a lot more ships than that to bug us," yelled Tamaki.
"Oh they're just to secure what's left," said Savage. "The rest I leave to him."
With that Savage's image vanished and after a tense period of waiting an explosion erupted from its place. From the fire rose a fist followed by a colossal skull face.
The fiasco that was Cornelia and Euphemia's supposed execution had sent Odysseus into a frenzy as Joker noticed. While Nina seemed content knowing her coveted Euphemia was secure, he was focused on how this had become yet another means to exhaust Lelouch.
"I believe now is the time to use our puppet," said Joker.
Nina snapped back to attention and straightened her hat, having taken a liking to it, before getting to work.
"The transmitter is coming through though...it's faint," she said.
"So long as it is breaking through any of Batman's dampeners," said Joker.
"It's...in the city," Nina said with some surprise.
"Of course, he wouldn't risk leading us to where the League in total hangs their capes," said Joker. "Quite noble little brother. Can we obtain control of our puppet from here?"
"It'll be difficult, there is a lot of interference but we should be able to get through," said Nina. "But if we're able to get a signal why not just invade?"
"Because he's no fool," said Joker. "His personal headquarters will be protected. And most likely...monitored. Cause our puppet some distress. I'm sure someone will hear him. Someone who just can't stand the suffering of others. In the meantime, send out the Knights. Let's not have the Bat return to his roost just yet."
Robin led Hawk, Dove, and their followers into the tank just as reinforcements were coming to bear down on them.
"Now would be a good time for a boom tube," said Darlton.
"Not quite," said Batman, flipping through various switches.
From beneath the tank, several propulsion engines roared to life, as did one in the rear.
"A flying bat-tank?" Hawk puzzled. "Combined with the car and that Knightmare..."
"The Azrael," Batman said.
"How many secret war machines do you have?" Hawk asked.
"Enough," said Batman. "I needed hobbies as a child."
"And apparently alien parents give the best toys," said Robin.
"No kidding," said Nonette.
As the tank began to life off Batman fired at the oncoming Frames as he propelled the ship onward, staking out their legs from beneath them as their own rounds bounced harmlessly off of the armor of the tank.
"Are we going to Blackhawk Island?" asked Dove.
"We can't leave Odysseus in command," said Hawk. "He's gone insane, deciding our fate on the flip of a coin. If that's how he's going to conduct the Settlement everyone's chances of surviving are going to be split in half."
"She's right," said Guilford. "If we can depose Odysseus and..."
"You've been revealed," said Batman. "As far as Britannia is concerned you're both metahuman traitors and sympathizers. Even toppling Odysseus wouldn't help. It may well be that unless we're able to stop Brainiac's oncoming attack there may be no salvaging Britannia. The Empire is collapsing, all in accordance with Savage's plan. He's even bringing in other nations into the mix."
"What?" asked Hawk.
"The Chinese Federation is making a move on Kyushu," said Batman. "The others are dealing with it. For now that leaves us in an increasingly destabilizing Settlement with an even more aggressive push for Japanese liberation on the horizon, a maniac in power of the regular Britannian military now that you've been ousted, and the other maniac half-brother I have to deal with."
"Then let's focus on the two of them," said Hawk. "If we stop Odysseus and Schneizel our people will see that..."
"They don't trust you," said Batman. "As I said there may be no salvaging Britannia."
"I cannot accept that," said Hawk. "When Brainiac comes even if we're able to stop that monster Savage will lay the blame on Britannia, you said so yourself. Our people will need a safe haven to flock to when that happens."
"It obviously can't be Japan," said Batman.
"Perhaps but even so they're going to need something to look towards," said Hawk. "They'll need something. We can't just abandon them."
Setting the controls to autopilot Batman turned and saw Hawk was trembling slightly. The reality of Britannia's collapse was hard for Cornelia as a patriot. Even when she acknowledged that Britannia had been made to be wrong she still loved her country. Lelouch could only see Britannia as the nation that had betrayed him. Just as he had so long seen Cornelia as the sister who had betrayed him.
"We're dealing with an attack on all sides," said Batman. "Joker is loose, Kyoto had withdrawn support, Savage's other puppets are laying on the offence, and we've still got a planet killer inbound. The last of which we don't even have an idea as to fight as I haven't had the time to..."
"Because they're trying to exhaust you," said Hawk.
"I know," said Batman. "My forces and my attention are being pulled in all directions. But with you two out of harms way and back to Blackhawk Island..."
"I already told you that..."
"Our resources are being stretched thin," said Batman. "My strongest pieces are fighting off an incursion. Kyoto has forsaken us, Odysseus is now in command of the military in Area 11, and the Joker is still at large. At this point I'm losing control of the land even if I still have my strongest pieces at my disposal."
"They're trying to exhaust you," said Hawk. "Fine, let's all go back to Blackhawk Island, regroup, rest, and..."
"No, I still have to properly examine Urabe," said Batman.
"One of Tohdoh's people? The man Joker took?" asked Guilford.
"You found him?" asked Darlton.
"He's secure, I haven't taken him back to Blackhawk Island yet," said Batman.
"Why not?" asked Dove. "The poor man must be in need of medical attention."
"He's compromised and I refuse to believe Joker just led me to him and left him alive because he was feeling charitable," said Batman.
"But we found no bugs on him," said Robin. "No explosives and he's in no physical shape to really try much."
"He doesn't set foot on Blackhawk Island until I'm sure and until I know where the Joker is," said Batman.
"That almost sounds like you intend to interrogate a man who must have already been tortured horrendously by now," said Dove.
"I'll only do what is necessary," said Batman. "But before anything else I will ensure the Joker is stopped. He will pay for all he's done."
Hawk noticed the deep hatred that filled her brother's voice.
"So you're going to drop us off and continue going on to face him even knowing that he has that beast with him ready to fight you once you're weak enough," said Hawk.
"I'll think of a way to turn it to my advantage," said Batman.
"By letting me go with you," said Hawk.
"No, you'll slow me down," said Batman. "And Euphie is still recovering from the injuries Joker gave her so she can't be there to keep you calm when your power enhanced rage takes over and you become sloppy."
"Perhaps but against that Bane creature perhaps that could help," said Hawk. "If nothing more use me as a charging bull and send me out. My enhanced strength should be more than a match for it."
"No," said Batman. "Once I land us somewhere safe you are all going to Blackhawk Island."
"No," said Hawk. "I am not leaving you. Not again."
Her form faded to reveal her true self, Cornelia. She gently put her hands to the sides of the cowl and clicked the locks at its sides. She gently removed the cowl and saw into the tired eyes of her brother, Lelouch. For a moment, looking into his tired eyes she thought she could see the boy she watched play with Euphie all those years ago.
She was so busy looking into his eyes she failed to see what he was doing with his hands. She failed to see Lelouch activate the Mother Box and send Cornelia, Euphemia, and all their party through a series of Boom Tubes.
"Holy..."
"Focus," said Lelouch, putting on the mask of Batman once more. "There's work to be done."
Batman brought up his Mother Box which informed him of the confrontation in Kyushu. Once the full situation as well as the readings of the apparent creature the others were fighting were explained to him, Lelouch's mind began to formulate a plan.
Listening in on the various incidents going on from her place on Blackhawk Island, Nunnally couldn't help but fidget in worry. Mother Box told her of a Boom Tube which opened up on the far side of the island. Pictures from a drone showed her that her sisters and their allies were safe. It eased her worry slightly, though her brother's absence did her no favors.
Suddenly she heard something coming from the various sensors stationed in Lelouch's bunker. She had been using them to monitor Urabe's condition since Lelouch had denied the man access to the medical facilities on Blackhawk Island.
The sensors rang out, apparently detailing that Urabe's heart was giving out. With all the various attacks happening at once personnel at the base was left somewhat limited. And Cornelia and Euphemia were on the far end of the island, as such it would take them a while to arrive at the base.
"It's only the Bunker," Nunnally muttered as she picked up her Mother Box, ready to administer the aid she could give.
She opened a Boom Tube and quickly hovered through.
"Jesus Christ what the hell is that?" yelled Tamaki, flying past another blast of fire from the giant.
"If we knew we'd tell you," yelled Inoue.
The fire giant tore through the industrial area, melting and burning everything it touched. It's great size and intense heat enough to keep various members at bay. Especially J'onn, who despite his weariness around fire coordinated with the others the best he could.
"These flames aren't of Earthly origin," said Barda. "This beast is from the fire pits of Apokolips."
"And I'm guessing fire from that place is bad right?" yelled Queen Shazam.
"Very bad," said Barda.
"Not to mention Mother Box is telling me there is a high amount of radiation coming from that creature," said Mr. Miracle. "Some of you should be protected. Namely anyone who's an alien or has magic."
"Then we'll handle big and flaming," said Queen Shazam. "Everyone else should worry about that armada coming this way."
"Roger," said Hawkman.
With that the forces of the Justice League split apart. Superman, the Shazam Group, Green Lantern, Fate, and Barda took on the flaming giant. While Hawkman led the Knightmare division, including S.T.R.I.P.E., Red Tornado, J'onn, Scott, and C.C. to engage the Chinese Federation forces.
Superman struck first giving out a gust of freezing air at the giant but its incredible heat nullified his efforts. Lantern countered by summoning emerald chains which wrapped around the burning giant.
Splitting into two air squadrons Kallen's group swooped in to blast the giant with lightning, staggering it. However the creature rebelled against the chains which held it, apparently becoming hotter with its rage.
"This isn't going to hold for long," groaned Lantern. "If anyone has a better idea please use it now."
"Mother Box is scanning this creature," said Barda. "All we have to do is keep it in place."
Fate summoned various light based Ankh shaped objects which struck into the beast. However this didn't deter the creature as it continued to burn and glow.
"It's going to blow," yelled Lantern.
He increased the chains and sent more green flames out to smother the beast or at least to contain the blast. When the blast came it took all of Suzaku's will to keep the blast contained. But a flex from the beast shattered the construct, with enough force to knock Suzaku back. Kallen caught him and got him to a safe distance while he tried to regain his focus.
"Dammit, we're wasting time with this jackass while Lelouch is getting pulled apart," Kallen cursed.
"I know," said Suzaku. "I just need to catch my breath and refocus my mind and I'm good."
"How's your charge?" Kallen asked.
She then noticed how Suzaku was still dressed in the armor he had formed upon his rescue from the Manhunters. In fact it had been his default form for some time now.
"You just noticed?" Suzaku laughed. "When I recharged in space I think I...I took in the Lantern inside my body. I don't need to charge from the Lantern. I am the Lantern and all the power I need without the limit."
"So could you try and do that bubble thing again?" asked Kallen.
"I could try but it'll just blow again and that's a lot of force to try and hold in," said Suzaku. "I tried to strengthen the field but it took all my will to keep the blast limited."
"So we can't contain that asshole," moaned Kallen.
"Not long enough no," said Suzaku. "I could try tossing it up. But..."
"It could break free and suddenly we have a giant, radioactive ball of death in free fall onto all of us," said Kallen, following Suzaku's reasoning.
Kallen took a breath and focused on using the Wisdom of Solomon to try and aid her in this when their communicators went off.
"Destabilize the core at the heart of the beast," Batman's voice.
"What the...how?"
"My Mother Box is synched to Scott's and Barda's I have the data, I'm aware of the situation," said Batman. "Destabilize the core at the center of the creature and it'll cause a meltdown. But once that happens then you'll have to contain it."
"And I guess you have a plan?" asked Suzaku.
"A pinpoint strike into where the heart would be on its body," said Batman.
"A strike with what exactly?" asked Suzaku.
"Something solid to pierce the core but charged with power," Kallen determined, relying on the Wisdom of Solomon.
"A spear from heaven, yes but do not be reckless," Batman said.
Kallen wondered if he was speaking out of concern for her as a lover or as a comrade. Pushing those thoughts down for now, she began to plan out her attack.
Batman hung up and groaned as he sat back down in the pilots seat. The whole ordeal with the Joker was getting to him. But he needed to push on. He had to focus and resolve this task.
"We should have let her come with us," Robin's voice said.
"Excuse me?" Batman asked.
"We should have let Hawk and Dove come with us," said Robin. "Along with the rest of them. They can help us perhaps take down guys like Odysseus and the Joker, because from where..."
"The people don't trust them," said Batman. "They're viewed as traitors and that is all there is to it."
Robin took note of Batman's tone. He had spoken at length with Nunnally about her past whenever they had some down time and were alone together. He knew of the past Lelouch and she had with Cornelia and Euphemia.
"The Britannian people don't trust them," Robin said. "Or you don't trust them?"
Batman looked over his shoulder and cut a glare at Robin. Before anything else could be said between the two of them an alert rang through. Equipment he had placed at Ashford to alert him of any potential threat at the school, one he had covertly installed after the incident with DeVoe, rang off.
Memories of the school, his time there, his friends, of Shirley rang through Lelouch's mind. He took the controls and changed direction, no longer heading in the direction of the Bunker but to the school.
While the others dealt with the flaming giant, Hawkman led the charge on the Chinese Federation vessels. C.C. cast a spell to disrupt the Sakuradite powered guns of the invaders, leaving them vulnerable to attack.
Hawkman himself flew onto the command deck of the lead ship and there he found Ito.
"The illustrious Hawkman, or would you prefer I address you as Col. Kyoshiro Tohdoh?" he asked.
"Whatever I am called or whatever life I am born into I am still the same man," said Hawkman. "I am a warrior of justice."
"And what is the justice in protecting Britannia?" asked Ito, drawing his sword.
"Do not pretend that this is a patriotic action," said Hawkman. "You are nothing but Savage's pawn."
"Aren't we all in the end?" asked Ito. "And does not his ideal of a united world speak true to the desires of humanity? How many over the eons have needlessly perished due to mankind's wars over petty differences? Over meaningless lines in the sand?"
"A unified future for mankind is one humanity must determine on their own," said Hawkman. "Not based on the mad desires of an eternal tyrant and a god of evil. Now, enough debate, let our weapons and skill decide who is true."
"Agreed," said Ito.
Superman, The Shazam Group, and Fate distracted the flaming giant while Barda and Lantern helped Queen Shazam with her plan.
"Just for the record this is highly reckless, which is what Batman told us not to be," said Lantern.
"It's the only way to be sure this gets done the right way," said Queen Shazam.
"I'm inclined to agree," said Barda.
"With who?" asked Lantern.
"Oddly enough with both of you," said Barda. "But if this helps get me back to my son so he doesn't have to contend with that lunatic's machinations alone I'll take whatever risk there is. But be warned this will be dangerous. You are plotting combining old magic with the technology of the New Gods."
"Whatever risk," said Queen Shazam.
Barda nodded, understanding Kallen's feelings. She could tell that indeed there was still some conflict in Kallen's heart about what she felt towards Lelouch. Barda understood that as well.
"The Source guide you," she said as she handed Kallen her Mega-Rod.
Milly had been at the school finishing up what she felt was perhaps the last bit of ordinary student life she'd have for a while. Pat had told her that with things escalating as they were she, and the entire family, would be going to Blackhawk Island.
As such she wanted to stop by the school, her home, more to say goodbye than anything else. That was when the trouble started. Armored individuals laying siege to the school and attacking students.
Regular military and police came in however that did little to help the situation. They fired without care of the students getting caught in the crossfire. She ran out trying to direct students to evacuate but got tossed aside in the panic that the masked men were causing. As the Britannian soldiers began firing into the school Milly ducked into the chapel.
It didn't take long for several of the armored attackers to find her. As she still wore the Cosmic Converter Belt Pat had given her, Milly had access to the abilities it granted her. Such as enhanced strength. And in the time since Pat had revealed his true nature to her, he had been sure to train her how to defend herself with the belt. She manage to deflect a few of the initial blows given her way, but the number of the guards forced her on the defensive, until they combined their enhanced power and flung her to the base of the alter.
As the armored warriors drew close, one activated an arm mounted blade. As it almost fell on Milly it was caught by another blade. A long sword held by...a janitor. The janitor forced the armored swordsman back, standing guard over Milly.
"Stand back villains, they blades shall not harm the maiden fair," the Janitor said.
The armored warriors activated their blades and charged at the janitor. But despite the apparent advanced technology of their suits, the Janitor fought masterfully. Countering each blow and striking true. He struck at the joints of the armored fighters, piercing deep, disabling them before striking hard the flat of his sword to their helms.
Soon enough the group of men were lying unconscious on the floor. The Janitor sheathed his sword in a scabbard and turned to Milly, offering his hand.
"My lady," he said gently.
Not quite sure what to think Milly none the less took the man's offered hand and he helped her to her feet. He then took notice to the belt she wore and smiled.
"The Starman's belt," he muttered.
"Starman?" Milly said, trying to sound as if she didn't know what he was talking about.
"Fret not," the Janitor said. "The Starman and his noble squire Stripsey are old allies of mine. For I am...Sir Justin, knight of Camelot, and proud member of the Seven Soldiers of Victory. As you wear the belt, I know you must be of blood or bond to one of those find men my lady. My sword is yours if you would have me."
The janitor, Justin, knelt before Milly, who stood rather dumbfounded.
"You'll have to forgive Justin," another voice said.
Milly turned to see the new priest who came to care for the Chapel.
"He's a bit...old fashioned," said the priest. "Allow me to introduce myself as well...Father Jason Blood at your service."
Once in the bunker Nunnally hovered over to the bed where Urabe had been handcuffed to. He labored to breath as he lay on that bed, the evidence of torture obvious.
"Please...my wrists," he groaned.
Nunnally looked and saw how his hand cuffs were cutting into his skin. Fearing for blood loss she quickly undid the cuffs. But once she did he grabbed her. Once he had her in a chock hold Urabe grabbed her Mother Box.
"You...are alive," Urabe muttered, but sounding as if there was something wrong with him. "You can care...if you care...about her...to open a tube to...coordinates."
As Nunnally labored to breath Mother Box pinged lightly. Complying with Urabe's demand, but also giving out a wireless signal to the computer.
Outside the rest of the school found aid in the oncoming Batman and Robin. The armaments of the giant hovering Bat-Tank were more than a match for the Knightmare reinforcements Odysseus had sent.
When the armored fighters he and Robin had encountered before actually leaped onto the craft, Batman activated an electric field which delivered a powerful, and painful shock to their systems.
"According to her phone Milly is in the chapel," said Batman. "Get her while I deal with the enemy. Take Mother Box with you. Just ask her for a tube and she'll send you both to Blackhawk Island."
"On it," said Robin as he shot out of the hatch.
He landed on the roof of the Clubhouse and from there he made his way to the chapel. This left Batman to fight off the attackers to the school. But as he engaged the enemy Knightmare Forces, he received an alarm from the bunker.
"Damn," he cursed.
He charged in to the fray, all cylinders hot, eager to resolve this incident quickly. There was more dire work to be done.
The creature, despite seeming to be made of fire, was solid enough that several blows from Superman and the Shazam family, combined with enough momentum. Once it was staggered Lantern once more restrained it with emerald chains.
"Alright I've got it," he groaned.
Fate helped by summoning several Ankhs once more to help pierce the creature in place. Positioning herself in the air, Queen Shazam summoned forth the lightning, channeling it through the mighty Mega Rod. Once she was charged up she flew down, the Speed of Mercury on fully. She dove straight into the heart of the creature, the flames enveloping her as she bore deeper. Even though her divine form offered protection she could feel the infernal heat that was but a sample of the hell which was Apokolips, burn her greatly. As if it were trying to burn her very soul away. But despite it all she continued on into the core of the burning creature. It was there she released the energy she had build up, sending it rippling through the creature. Just as Lelouch had deduced this was beginning a violent chain reaction in the creature. Once more summoning forth the legendary speed of the messenger god, Kallen flew out of the flaming giant as it began to become unstable.
"She's clear," Superman yelled.
Lantern sealed the flaming giant in another green field but this time he summoned all his will to throw the sphere up into the air. As the pressure of the erupting giant grew Suzaku kept his will steady until he was certain that it was at a safe enough altitude that he could undo the field and allow the creature to erupt high in the sky. Conversely, Queen Shazam fell to the ground, the ordeal of facing the flames of Apokolips having drained her quite a bit. Barda reached her first before anyone else and took the hot Mega Rod from Kallen's hand, clasping it as she did. She held Kallen's hand in many fashions. As a comrade in battle but also as a mother who thus acknowledged a worthy lover for her son.
The clash of mace and sword had not been interrupted aboard the control deck of the ship in which Ito rode. The skill between the two warriors appeared to be evenly matched.
"Admit the truth Ito, you do not care about Japan in the slightest," yelled Hawkman.
"The concept of flags and nations is outdated," said Ito. "Mankind is about to evolve beyond it."
"Into a world ruled by Vandal Savage," yelled Hawkman.
"Savage has been the driving force behind mankind's development ever since the beginning," growled Ito, his sword once again clashing with Hawkman's mace. "He was a key factor in thwarting Darkseid's initial invasion. His goal is one I admire, to ascend mankind to the height of power in a universe well beyond the confines of our pitiful planet. But to do that we must overcome the petty squabbles of the world as it is now. The divisions of mankind wiped away to make way for a new unified future. In all your lifetimes, all the times you've seen the foolishness of man bring about war and discrimination, can you truly deny the benefits."
They drew back their respective weapons but as Ito went to slash Hawkman dove below the arc of the blade and extended a wing, the force being enough to send Ito into a wall, though he held onto his sword.
He brought up the blade just in time to prevent Hawkman from slamming his mace into him.
"In all my lifetimes I have seen how truly pointless it is to divide mankind," said Hawkman. "We are all members of one wondrous world and it is my hope that oneday the rest of the humanity will become wise enough to understand this. However I will never accept Savage's unification. It is not wisdom, it is not the cure to he diseases of war and discrimination, it is the ultimate mutation of the disease. He would cultivate the hate of the world and send us out into the universe as barbarians."
"The brutal nature of humanity cannot be overcome," said Ito.
"Perhaps not for many more eons to come but none the less I will fight to keep that nature from destroying the innocent of the world," yelled Hawkman.
"The Britannian people are not innocent," said Ito. "They were not made to be innocent."
As Ito began to push back the soldiers guarding Ito drew their guns and drew in on Hawkman. But before they could attack another form violently flew in. What followed was a blur of feathers and metal. The soldiers who were about to aid Ito were now being slammed by a different mace as well as another set of wings. As reinforcements began to pour in through a narrow door, the Hawkman fought Ito uninterrupted, as the Hawkwoman dealt with them.
"Um...what am I supposed to do with these guys?" Robin asked.
He had found Milly and thankfully she was safe. He had been informed that her rescuers, Sir Justin and Father Blood, were well aware of Savage and that the former was an ally of her stepfather Pat.
"I guess we should just take them to Blackhawk Island with us," said Milly. "We can sort it all out later."
"I suppose," said Robin.
"Take Justin with you at the least," said Blood. "A good shepherd does not leave his flock."
"But what if more soldiers or these, armored nuts come back?" asked Robin.
"Fret not squire," said Justin. "Father Blood is more than skilled in dealing with demons of all kinds."
"Once all is settled find me again," said Blood. "There is a matter in which I feel your master should be made aware of. Not merely of Savage but of other renegades who are dabbling in forces they should not. It may well be prudent to look towards Europe in the future. Specifically one of the sacred Knightly Orders that guard Euro-Britannia. The Order of St. Dumas."
"What's so special about them?" asked Robin.
"Their newest commander is one whom I...one whom I had sought to save and failed," said Blood. "An orphan boy with great gifts. I took him under my wing, raised him, and even gave him my name. But I fear a great darkness has grown in his heart. A darkness so great it forced me to otherwise flee along with Justin."
"Who is this guy?" asked Robin.
"His name is Shin," said Blood. "Shin Hyuga Blood although in the order of St. Dumas he goes by...Brother Blood."
After his instruments detected the use of a Boom Tube and he was certain Rolo had taken Milly to safety, Batman flew back to the bunker. What he found there shook him to the core.
"Nunnally," he cried as he saw his sister lying on the ground at the feet of Bane and the Joker, Firefly also being freed.
Urabe was now dead, a smile frozen on his face matching that of the Joker.
"I knew he was compromised," Batman muttered.
"Yes," said Joker, pulling up Nunnally's head by her hair. "And although I know you must have had your defenses but I know the key to your defenses. You always did have such a doting relationship with Nunnally. And sweet Nunnally simply couldn't ignore another's pain. A few strikes on dear Nina's keyboard and our puppet began to go into cardiac arrest. The rest is...well if you have to explain a joke and all that."
"You've gotten what you wanted," said Batman. "You've got me alone, tired, and ready to face this beast."
"Yes, you have stretched yourself far too thin Batman," said Bane. "Even the ones not distracted by Ito you appear to have sent away."
"I can end this," Batman groaned.
The exhaustion of the past few days was getting to him. He had been pushing himself too much, trying to bear the burden alone. All he had been focusing on was the Joker. His hatred for what had once been his half-brother Schneizel. Wanting to avenge what had happened to Shirley and how he had destroyed Lelouch's friendship with her among other such horrors. He ignored everything else, everyone else for that sake.
He allowed Cornelia and Euphemia to be captured and then sent them away when they offered to help. He allowed himself to go along with this horrid scheme because he felt certain that he could find some clever means of overcoming it. No, because he knew it would lead him to the Joker. But between him and the Joker was Bane. And more important than his vengeance was Nunnally's safety.
"Let Nunnally go, I'm the one you want," he said.
"Oh no, that's not how this works," said Joker. "Break him."
Bane struck out with his fist, Batman barely dodging. Once again the size of Bane disguised how quick he could be. But Bane used the momentum of his punch to spin on one leg and deliver a powerful kick to Batman's midsection, sending him into a wall.
With this momentary distraction Bane activated his gauntlet and the chemicals pumped into his body, swelling it to double its size. All the while Joker held up Nunnally's head, pulling her eyelids open.
"No," she cried.
"Yes," Joker laughed.
As Batman tried to recover, Bane pulled out a small device from his pocket which sent a burst of energy towards Batman, frying the technology in his armor and belt.
"No toys," Bane yelled. "You fight as a man."
Lelouch tore off the useless cowl and threw it aside. He then got into a fighting stance and charged. Bane dove with a fist but Lelouch jumped, taking out a Batarang, hoping to cut the tubes which fed him his chemicals. But Bane once more moved with speed almost as equal to his brutal strength. Swiping at him and flinging him onto the computer console damaging it and shattering at least three ribs. Not allowing a moment of rest, Bane grabbed Lelouch and began violently flinging him across the bunker. All the while Joker held Nunnally's eyes wide open, his grip tight even as her tears began to flow from her eyes as she was forced to watch this horrible sight.
When Bane threw him to the ground Lelouch attempted to regain control of the fight by throwing a Batarang into his eye. But Bane caught it masterfully and crushed it. Lelouch took the time, however brief, to get back up and attempt to strike at various nerve clusters on Bane's body. But the muscle mass he had grown from the chemicals he pumped into himself guarded him. The same however could not be said for Lelouch's armor as Bane struck down hard.
"I feel little strength in your fists Batman," said Bane. "You have burned yourself, physically and mentally. Truth has defeated you, truth of the emptiness of your cause of vengeance."
Lelouch thought back to what Savage had told him. Learning his biological mother was always on the side of a genocidal madman had indeed shaken him. He had been trying to regain that same initial resolve ever since.
"Your failures to guard those who trusted you," Bane yelled, delivering another powerful blow.
The image of Shirley flashed before his mind. The guilt refused to leave him. She had trusted him, even loved him, and Lelouch had repaid all the kindness she had ever shown him with neglect, costing her everything.
"You have banished your allies," yelled Bane, grabbing Lelouch by the cape, flinging him into the wall, tearing the cape.
The first thing that came to Lelouch's mind was how he had banished Cornelia. When he looked into her eyes before, he did see the young woman he had loved as his sister. But his stubbornness and hold to old pains refused to let him trust Cornelia, to let her into his heart. He also thought of Kallen, perhaps the only one he had let in, the one he found most understanding with.
Even with good friends like Rivalz and Suzaku, Lelouch kept his walls up. But Kallen, something brought the two of them close. He understood her and she him. He had been so used to hate and anger in his heart, all love carefully guarded and reserved for a select few. Nunnally, his sister, and later Scott and Barda, his adopted parents. Had he opened it to Kallen as well?
A single tear rolled down his eye for that. Just as Bane walked over to him and grabbed him by his collar and belt.
"I wonder what is more broken," said Bane, as he lifted him up. "You're mind."
Lelouch looked over at the Joker, whose assault and mere existence chipped away at Lelouch's mind. He also saw the horrified look in Nunnally's eyes.
"No," she cried.
"Eyes wide open Nunnally," Joker laughed, ensuring she could not tear away.
"Or your body," Bane yelled as he brought Lelouch's back to his knee.
Lelouch screamed in agony as his spine snapped. The pain took its toll and he soon lost consciousness as he was flung to the ground. Joker too released Nunnally, who flayed on the ground like a fish as her mind reeled from what she had seen. Her psychosomatic issues with her legs came back in full and just as when she had been thought to have been traumatized into blindness by her mother's death, a true such sensation was happening to Nunnally now after seeing her brother so beaten.
"I must admit I always thought the blind cripple look was better for you Nunnally," laughed Joker.
He stepped on her back to keep her from crawling over to Lelouch. On cue, a Tube opened up and from the hellish landscape of Apokolips, DeSaad walked onto the Earth.
"He still lives I take it?" asked DeSaad.
"He does," said Joker. "Although, a bit of a fixer upper."
"It will make him easier to control," said DeSaad. "Great Darkseid will be pleased. As for the parents, I trust you can make use of this."
DeSaad gave Joker his 'gift' for Scott.
"I'll be sure he gets it," Joker laughed, looking down at Nunnally.
"No," Nunnally cried.
Joker kicked her to silence her, laughing while he did so. DeSaad walked over to the fallen Lelouch and knelt down.
"Great Darkseid is most anxious to spend quality time with his grandson," said DeSaad whispered into Lelouch's ear. "I'm sure you shall find his hospitality most invigorating."
DeSaad grabbed Lelouch by the collar and dragged him through a newly created Boom Tube. The Joker laughing all the time as Lelouch was now cast into what could truly be considered the pits of Hell. And while he expected to find little entertainment in the coming days, the Joker felt that Lelouch would come from the pit quite intact. And perhaps offering even more fun.
Till then he still had one toy to play with, lying at his feet blind and helpless like he always liked her as.
"I suppose I can still have a small bit of fun," Joker muttered. "Eh Nunnally."
With the flaming giant defeated and the armada routed, Ito was captured. Returning to Japan, the League found themselves unable to get in contact with Blackhawk Island. Or with Batman in Tokyo.
Worried about Lelouch, Kallen, along with Scott and Barda, went out to where the Bunker was hidden. But as they drew close, an explosion shook the area. As she was the swiftest Kallen dove down and dug through the rubble of what was once the Bunker. What she found shook her to her core, Lelouch's cowl, shattered.
Author's Note: With that Knightfall is over. Sorry if Bane only ever came across as hired muscle. But it's kind of what I needed him to be. Also here I've laid the roots for what will be a bridge between R1 and R2 for this saga, similar to what Akito the Exiled was. Also this is where Lelouch departs the story for a bit, the rest of the end of R1 focusing on the rest of the team dealing with the fallout as well as the coming of Brainiac. As well as the continued shattering of Lelouch's family, which will act as a bridge between the two arcs. I've also begun plotting out R2.
Next Turn: Cataclysm.