#Frenemies: Part 1
Ten days later...
Johnny looked at the bandages on his body, seeing how he was still recovering. His parents still didn't know his secret, however, some of the marks and scratches were getting smaller, almost unnoticeable. Looking at them, he put on his shirt as he went downstairs, about to have another coffee with his parents. The boy was still thinking about the discovery he had made with himself, seeing that he liked Zee, but also Diana, which complicated his decision a little more. His father, Tom, was watching him eating, while he was wearing his police uniform. Kate, on the other hand, was preparing a cup of coffee for her, trying to keep an eye on him.
(Tom) - What happened, son?
(Johnny) - I'm just thinking about something. - Eating some bread that was prepared, Johnny began to think a little about what was affecting him. As well as the injuries on his body, he felt a little different at the moment. - You know, I have a question: how did you know that you loved each other? I have this friend at school, he just found out that he's in love with two girls, but he doesn't know which one to choose. One is popular, pretty, aspiring magician and they like similar things and the other is smart, full of culture and likes the same things as this friend of mine. The problem is that he feels divided because he doesn't know what their reaction will be.
(Kate) - The truth? We didn't know. When we first met, we felt that we were each other's opposites. Until we realized how much we had something in common: On our first date, we had an ice cream and we were talking, we discovered that we had the same taste for music, movies and hobbies. However, it was different. - Kate spoke, while putting a smile on her face.
(Tom) - Your mother was a little stubborn sometimes to do certain things. But I could understand a little. After all, after a few dates, we seemed to feel something in our hearts. It was like a tightening in itself.
(Kate) - As for your friend, maybe he needs a little time to figure out who he can have a deep connection with. And when that happens, I hope he's ready. - Kate put a smile on her face, as Johnny prepared to leave once more. Slowly, he felt some of the pain in his body, realizing his recovery taking effect. With that, the boy started to go to the gym.
Inside the gym, Johnny started to prepare a training outfit, in which Diana opened the door of her locker, being surprised to see her training partner at her side. The two, face to face again.
(Diana) - I didn't think you were coming back so soon.
(Johnny) - I was gone too long. It's like you said, a hero's duty never ends. And a little training at these times doesn't hurt anyone. - He looked at her closet, seeing a picture of a blond boy, leaving Johnny a little surprised. - Do you have an admirer, Diana?
(Diana) - Why this question?
(Johnny) - Sorry. It's just that I saw the picture in your closet, so I got a little curious.
(Diana) - This is Steve. He was the first man I met when I arrived here in the Man's World. - Slowly, the two began to walk, heading towards the treadmill. The boy could still feel a little pain in his body, but he tried to keep himself steady. - At some point, do you realize that there are certain things you cannot understand?
(Johnny) - And what would that be?
(Diana) - I seem to get weird when I'm around someone like him. My body seems to weaken a little, as if everything becomes difficult and at the same time, complicated to do. - The boy laughed lightly.
(Johnny) - That, my dear, is elementary. You feel that way because you don't know how to act around someone like Steve. You need a little practice not to show your insecurities. - He starts to run a little, while slowly, he realizes that Diana was liking someone else, however, there seemed to be something different. - Sometimes, we need a little practice.
(Diana) - Someone like him is not normal. Leaving someone weak like that is like that same person feeling his legs strange.
(Johnny) - Everybody feels that way from time to time. - Putting some speed into the treadmill, Johnny began to run, in which he persisted in seeing how physical he could be. - There are times when I feel like this and I admit it's a little unusual. There was a girl I liked in high school, but I never had the courage to tell her how I felt. That and also because she already had a boyfriend and I didn't know.
(Diana) - It must be hard for you. Finding someone who could be your possible soul mate, entwined between the boundaries of time and space. Just as it can also be difficult for me.
(Johnny) - Whether or not Steve is your soul mate, there will be someone who may feel the same way before you, Diana. - He was torn. He didn't know what to do, but he needed to make a point that maybe, choosing is kind of complicated. - It takes time.
(Diana) - "He's acting kind of strange. - Her thoughts were making clear a difficulty in understanding what she might be saying. - "Is that how a boy looks when he's worried?"
(Johnny) - What I mean is that the right person will come along for you. Even if you get nervous, you'll manage to say the right words.
Suddenly, the two looked away, seeing the news again about how a mass destruction was happening a few blocks away from the academy.
(Johnny) - Here we go again.
(Diana) - Are you ready? With these cuts on his body... - The Amazon spoke, feeling worried about the boy.
(Johnny) - I'll be fine. After all, we have a job to do, right? - The two gave a smile to the other, going towards another adventure.
In the center of the city, Starro was causing chaos and disorder in the streets, destroying everything around, houses, buildings, cars, nothing was escaping the wrath of this powerful being. Slowly, he released several copies of his body, while at the same time, he made his strength clear before the Super Hero Girls. Johnny used his powers to shoot some bursts, using his energy manipulation skills to destroy some of the starfish attacking him, concentrating his skills to create a sphere and hit some of them.
(Johnny) - These things just keep coming! - He creates a barrier as one of the stars falls on his head, causing Barbara to strike the boy in the head, knocking the star out of her sea.
(Barbara) - It's really complicated.
(Johnny) - Does this plan come out or not? - Zee continued to use his magic against the enemies while feeling the worry in his body.
(Zee) - I am thinking the same thing now. - Johnny started to run, at which Starro threw another starfish towards the hero, who slid with his knees touching the ground, wondering what could happen.
(Diana) - Now! - Throwing the Lasso of Truth at Starro, while Johnny used his powers to create an image of a chain, throwing it at Starro, with Zee, Jessica and Barbara using their magic, the ring to create a giant chain and a harpoon with rope, ending with Kara using her strength, while Karen approached with some crystals, making the Amazon give a little smile on her face. - Hold him together, siblings! - Suddenly, Karen arrived with the crystals in her hands. - Do you see that, Starro? This is the sign of your defeat! We will send you to another dimension using these crystals, and when that happens, we will end your reign of terror throughout this city! When they come together, and the portal-"- Suddenly, a cell phone started ringing, which Batgirl grabbed from her pocket, looking at the team. - Sorry, really need to take this, kinda important. - She answered the phone, releasing the cord, making the Super Hero Girls realize the situation.
(Johnny) - Not that one...
Suddenly, the battle took an unusual turn as Starro broke free, hurling more of his starfish towards the Super Hero Girls, which Johnny began to improvise. Channeling energy in both his hands, he fired off a pretty strong blast that managed to hit Starro's eye, blinding him and hitting some of the starfish. With that, he started to concentrate some of the energy in his left hand, throwing a sphere towards other stars, destroying them, until one hit his face, getting stuck in his face.
(Johnny) - Get it off me! - Jess used her ring to create a rope, removing it from Atlas' face. - Damn reference to the Alien movie again, that's too much! - Offering himself as a sort of sacrifice, Johnny started to give some blows that managed to push the stars back, while the girls went towards the general. After a minute or two, Starro was gone, however, he still managed to cause a draw by taking down the group. Green Lantern was standing on top of some debris, while Wonder Woman was also lying in a pile of debris, Zatanna was lying face down on the ground, and Supergirl, on the other hand, found herself inside a hole, with Atlas lying on top of some bricks of a wall that was knocked down. Bumblebee came out of her hiding place, worried, while Batgirl started heading towards the girls, a little optimistic.
(Barbara) - Hooray! You have beaten Starro!
(Karen) - No. Starro beat us.
(Jessica) - Again, and again... and again.
(Zee) - One of them almost got stuck in my face... and that's totally uncomfortable.
(Johnny) - And one that got stuck in mine? There's no way. This thing almost burns my face.
(Diana) - We just managed to send Starro to another dimension.
(Johnny) - Truth be told, I hope this other dimension is okay.
(Kara) - Translating: we lost.
(Barbara) - Well, we may have lost in the fight, but we won in life because... my best friend is moving to Metropolis! - Batgirl began to dance as she noticed that her best friend from Gotham was moving to the city she was now living in. The Super Hero Girls could do nothing but feel the pain in their bodies from the fight.
In the halls, Zee Zatara was standing near her locker as she was half surprised by Harleen's pranks. She seemed to be exaggerating a bit. It wasn't Livewire's level, however, they were still jokes to embarrass and torment people once in a while. Suddenly, the purple haired girl saw a letter stuck through the edges of her closet door. Walking over, Zee took it from inside the door, and opened the letter, being half surprised at what she was seeing.
"Dear Zee. If you are reading this letter, don't be nervous. This is only a statement. I'm a secret admirer. I have a soft spot for you and your way of being. I feel this letter is the only way I can express my words, because I'm too shy to be brave to say anything. I don't know what to do, but the truth is that I'm liking you. And I don't want you to think anything wrong. But this letter is my way of letting off a little steam."
Zee gave a half shy smile and looked to the sides, seeing that it could be any student that could have left the letter in his locker. The magician, she loved to show off and do everything, showing her full confidence in her actions. But she seemed intrigued.
(Zee) - A secret admirer? This is going to be a lot of fun. - She placed the letter with her in her bag, as she wondered who could have written the letter and left it in her closet. It seemed to be anyone who had left it, but that was already puzzling her.
In the cafeteria, Diana, Johnny, Zee, Kara, Barbara, Jessica, and Karen were gathered, in which they were enjoying a bit of conversation, but still, there was a bit of surprise among them.
(Karen) - A secret admirer?
(Zee) - Yeah, he left a letter in my closet, telling me how he felt about me. And I wasn't even expecting it.
(Johnny) - Your popularity precedes you, Zee. Depending on how things may develop, that admirer must really be anyone here at the school.
(Zee) - I can rule a certain person off the list, considering they simply can't stand me in every way possible. - She looked at a certain blonde sitting next to Hal Jordan, Carter Hall, and Barry Allen, while Johnny gave a small chuckle. - What's so funny?
(Johnny) - Not at all. I was just thinking about a show I saw earlier.
(Diana) - Love comes in all forms, Zee. Even from the people you least expect. If you give it a little time, maybe you'll find out who it is. - Barbara held out one of her hands towards the purple-haired girl, a small confidence in her body.
(Zee) - It's just that I am curious.
(Jessica) - Everyone has a way of saying how much they love someone. In some cases, when we lack the courage, we end up improvising.
(Barbara) - I can find out who it is. If you want, you can do a little analysis of the letter and I'll try to find out the handwriting. I might even recognize it.
(Zee) - I don't know. I think my mysterious admirer made sure to disguise the lyrics well. It's more or less formal than imagined.
Enter Selina Kyle. A young girl newly transferred from Gotham City to Metropolis. Joining Leslie Willis, Pamela Isley, Doris Zeul, Jason Valentine, and Carol Ferris at a table, they began to chat, until Selina tripped Garth up, giggling along with her friends, making the Super Hero Girls nervous.
(Diana) - Looks like Selina Kyle has made some new friends...
(Johnny) - The same can be said for my "old friend", Jason.
-Did someone say new friend? - The voice of a young girl wearing a blue and red outfit with bound blonde hair was heard, drawing the attention of the group, with Barbara holding a thrill in her body.
(Diana) - No. I said "new friends," plural. - Barbara's excitement increased to a point where she climbed on top of the table.
(Barbara) - Leenie-Weenie! - It was enough to hug her friend, knocking lunch out of everyone sitting near her.
-Babsy-Dabsy!
(Johnny) - I guess I'll have to eat later.
(Barbara) - So you just got here?
-I didn't want to be incredibly late for my first day.
(Barbara) - Guys, this is Harleen. My G.B.F.F. - Harleen Quinzel. Barbara Gordon's best friend from the time she lived in Gotham City. Practically being half surprised by what they were hearing, it was enough for Zee to approach Johnny, while trying to speak something in his ear.
(Zee) - Your what?
(Johnny) - Well I got confused now, you know?
(Barbara) - Gotham's Best Friend Forever.
(Diana) - Ah. - The Amazon stood up, extending her hand to Harleen. - It's our pleasure to welcome you to- - Suddenly, Diana got a shock, revealing that her hand had a shock button, causing her arm to go a little nervous, which made Johnny a little worried, looking at Kara and Zee.
(Johnny) - Not that one... - Just enough to remind you of the pranks Jason pulled back in the Coast City days. Also enough to think about how to deal with this giant problem at hand. Zee looked at the boy, as did Kara and Karen, realizing how what he was witnessing was practically a replay of his past with the "old friend" he talked so much about.
(Barbara) - Haha, the hand that gives shock. Classic Harleen. Hasn't changed a bit.
(Harleen) - That's not true. I have a new flower. - The flower splashes water, knocking Jess off the chair she was in. - A new whoopie cushion. - She squeezes the pillow, scaring Karen and Kara off the chair. - A new box. - Johnny looked at the box, hoping to see what was inside, until a clown emerged from inside, causing him to fall backwards. - And I even got that invisible ink! - The ink was in a pen. Suddenly, she squeezed the pen, splattering a bunch of ink all over Zee, which made her furious at the moment. - Oops, this is the one with the super-permanent industrial ink. Sorry! - She just stood there nervously while Babs was giggling.
(Barbara) - That was so funny!
The look on each person's face was enough to describe their reactions, in which they simply let on that there was nothing funny about it. Johnny was having a Livewire memory, noting how Harleen's jokes were almost on par with her, enough to make many agree almost silently, with each exchanging glances between the others.
(Barbara) - But you really should save those jokes for after school, Harley-Barley! - This has already made everyone fearful, almost thinking of inappropriate words because of what Barbara had said.
(Karen) - After school?
(Barbara) - I thought we could give Harleen a tour of Metropolis! Doesn't that sound like fun?
(Johnny) - Look, I... - I was trying to say something, until Diana looked at everyone, keeping her composure.
(Diana) - It would be our honour...
(Barbara) - All right! See you guys later! - The two friends left the cafeteria, but it was enough for the group to be practically stressed.
(Karen) - What are you doing?
(Zee) - I can't take it off with magic, you know!
(Jessica) - She's completely crazy!
(Kara) - Worst person in my life, and I've been to the Phantom Zone!
(Johnny) - It had to get worse, didn't it? - He makes a facepalm on his face, practically worried.
(Diana) - It is our duty as hosts to offer hospitality to this new guest. Plus, she is very important to Barbara for some reason. So we should make an effort. - The group was quiet, trying to figure out what to do.
(Jessica) - You know what? You might be right. After all, sure she didn't leave a... lasting impression, but she's probably not that bad. - Suddenly, Jess sat up on her pillow, at which noise was heard, while Johnny made another facepalm, visibly worried.
(Johnny) - It's going to be a long day. I just hope it ends quickly.
Later in the hallway, Johnny started walking, with another letter in his pocket, in the clothes he was wearing. Slowly, he began to see Jason alone, while standing near the closet. It was also enough to make the boy go to his rival.
(Jason) - Gee, Johnny, you seem to be a little stressed today.
(Johnny) - Not my best day. What are you doing with those girls?
(Jason) - They are my friends, Johnny. Just like you, I also decided to find my own group so I wouldn't feel lonely around this school. - The two in fact were polar opposites. One seemed to try to bear the presence of the other, in Johnny's mind. - Just like you, I too know how to get by.
(Johnny) - You have something on your mind, don't you? Some prank, trick, admit it.
(Jason) - No. Remember we're still in a truce? I'm respecting her boundary. But that doesn't mean I'm forbidden to make friends, do you think?
(Johnny) - Nobody's forbidding you to do that. Again, my day was not so good, so I'm trying to keep a little calm.
(Jason) - We need each other and you know that very well. I will continue to respect the truce. All it takes is for you to want to undo it and we'll go back to our old routine, if you want. - Johnny looked at his "friend" as he started to walk, but at that, the boy received a message notification, coming from Barbara.
"Can we talk? Alone. I'm sending you the coordinates. It's still in high school, by the way."
He started walking, getting close to the coordinates, which led to the janitor's closet. Johnny was a little weirded out by the situation, as he tried to understand where she was. Suddenly, something pulled him into the closet, seeing Barbara in front of him.
(Johnny) - Any reason for such an important conversation, Barbara?
(Barbara) - Nothing. It has to do with the letter that I am investigating.
(Johnny) - I bet you haven't achieved anything so far. - The girl gave a smug smile to her friend.
(Barbara) - On the contrary. I got a lot out of it. I've been analyzing the handwriting on the letter for an hour or two. I wondered if I had the courage to leave something in the closet of someone like Zee when people talk to her without leaving a note or anything. And then I realized something from math class and the way people write. It could be anyone, but my photographic memory made me realize that it wasn't just any letter on the letter. It was disguised in a way that would have been impossible to identify at first glance. - Barbara seemed to have deciphered the whole mystery as she looked at the boy, a little confident of herself. - However, I just had to stop and think a little: one disguises well, but not well enough. Then I remembered his writing style and compared it to the two letters on my tablet. And guess what? The comparison is the same.
(Johnny) - I'm still trying to understand what you mean by that.
(Barbara) - What I want to say, my dear friend, is that I have discovered in just a few hours that you are Zee's secret admirer. - He said nothing, pretending not to know anything, however, Barbara started walking, still confident. - No use pretending: your facial expressions are giving you away, my friend.
(Johnny) - I have nothing to say. I don't know anything.
(Barbara) - Please.
(Johnny) - All right. It's me. I'm her secret admirer. I just recently found out that I like Zee, but I don't know how to admit it to her. That's why I thought of the letter.
(Barbara) - I knew it! I knew it! - Barbara was slightly excited at that moment.
(Johnny) - Look, she's been kind to me. But I'm torn between her and Diana, only I found out she's into someone else. But Zee, she practically helps me when I can. She's been a good friend, and I'm afraid I'm going to mess it up, because I get the impression she doesn't like me the same way I do. - He looks at the redhead, concerned. - I've never been good with girls, and this was a way I found to express myself a little.
(Barbara) - I'm a little surprised. Of all people, I admit that at first, you were the last person I expected to be in love with her. As for Diana, that was a while ago, last week to be exact.
(Johnny) - I had to take a trip and I didn't even know what happened.
(Barbara) - This Steve basically messed up Diana, until I helped him get accepted where he wanted to go. - Barbara started to look at the boy, worried. - But I think I can help you with that. Zee is a complicated person, but she has a good heart. I can give you a hand with the cards if you need it.
(Johnny) - What wouldn't I do without you, Babs?
(Barbara) - Nothing is coming out of my mouth. - He makes a gesture, as if he were closing a zipper and with that, they both leave the closet.
Johnny started walking, seeing that there was another letter on the door. Walking over, he started to open it, seeing that it was written with the words of Zee Zatara.
"My dear admirer. Tell me a little more about yourself. The fact of knowing that there is someone secretly loving me already makes me a little curious. What will the person of my dreams be like? That's the answer I want to know. Leave your cards at the locker, and in return, I'll give you a little of what you want to know. Love, Zee."
The boy was in fact a little surprised. He hadn't expected Zee to leave a letter, even more so for him. He was willing to answer in the same coin. Going towards an empty room, he began to write another letter and left it in a gap in the closet. A few minutes later, Zee took the letter, surprised at the speed with which it was written.
"You're the girl of my dreams, Zee Zatara. Where do I begin? First of all, I'm a big fan of romantic movies. I also love a bit of magic. I like to watch some shows as a hobby. When I look at you, I see the purest exotic beauty, at a point where everything around seems to stand still. Finally, I'm also trying to write a poem, dedicated especially to you. Only I'm having some problems. However, I have my inspiration. What about you? What do you have to say about yourself? With love, from your secret admirer."
Zee seemed to be getting a blush from what she read in the letter. Cultural. Romantic. Thoughtful. It was someone who seemed to be trying to surprise her in every way possible. She ground some of her teeth together between her lips, thinking about what she was going to write.
(Zee) - "He puts me off. I think I need a little more time to think of something to write in my letter. And he wants to get to know me more. Let's see what happens from here on out."
At the subway, the group took Harleen on a tour of Metropolis, trying to help Barbara's best friend. Each person went through the turnstile, paying with coins, but Harleen went over one of the turnstiles, causing Diana to put in a few extra coins to help. However, in an ironic way, Harleen complained about the Amazon's lack of economic responsibility.
In the plaza, Jess was taking the opportunity to feed the pigeons a little. However, one of Harleen's pranks scared most of them away and caused some to attack Jessica for the trick. With that, it was clear how these pranks were affecting some of the group.
With Kara, she was playing a game inside an arcade, until suddenly, Harleen got in front of the screen, causing the girl to lose the game, messing up the Kryptonian, who seemed to be getting a bit of rage in her body. Zee, on the other hand, was trying to enjoy her day at Sweet Justice by eating a cupcake, however, Barbara's friend started eating with her mouth open, causing the magician to go bad.
Johnny, on the other hand, was deciding to enjoy his day, running a little, practicing, until suddenly, a bucket of water fell on the boy, getting him wet, and looking up from a rooftop, he saw Harleen with the bucket in hand, making him angrier than he already was. Karen, on the other hand, was enjoying a movie from the Just Before Dusk saga, however, she couldn't enjoy the movie because Harleen was telling her almost the entire ending, causing popcorn to be thrown at her because of it.
At the safe house, each of the Super Hero Girls were tired, practically worried about everything that was going on. Exhausted and seemingly depressed. Barely able to stand upright.
(Kara) - I am so happy that I cannot feel pain now.
(Johnny) - Does anyone here know a spell to banish someone annoying? - He looks at Zee, a little worried.
(Zee) - I could, except I think Barbara would get a bit suspicious if we disappeared with her friend just like that. - She remains a little worried.
(Diana) - She has to know what a disaster it was. - Speaking justly of Barbara, she came down the slide of the hiding place, with a smile on her face.
(Barbara) - So... best day ever? - No one dared to say anything, so as not to hurt her feelings. - Oh, I knew you would love her as much as she loves you! That's why... I've scheduled activities for next year! - Everyone was worried, not wanting to go through what they went through all over again. - I know what you're thinking, "why stop in a year?" That's why I did five years or fifty years, or even if we end up dying on the same day we can have a Super BFFs grave. I'll invite Harleen over and see what she has to say. - Practically no one could stand Barbara's friend, and now, the height of the situation seemed to have been reached at that moment.
(Jessica) - Wait... you want to tell Harleen about... our hiding place?
(Karen) - Our secret hiding place?
(Zee) - The not-super one that no one can hear?
(Diana) - Probably not a good idea.
(Barbara) - What? Why?
(Diana) - Well, because... because...
(Kara) - We don't have many chairs! - He flew at the highest speed, melting all the chairs with his heat vision.
(Barbara) - Wait, don't you guys want to hang out with Harleen? - Everyone disagreed on the spot, saying yes, until suddenly, Barbara grabbed Diana's lasso. - Lasso of Truth! - She tied the group up with the Lasso of Truth while they were wrapped in it. - I will ask you again: Do you really like Harleen?
(Diana) - Harleen is the worst!
(Johnny) - Much worse!
(Karen) - She is the worst of the worst!
(Jessica) - Just when I thought it couldn't get any worse, it did!
(Zee) - I don't like her company!
(Diana) - We tried for her sake, we really tried, but she's so... so...
(Kara) - Annoying! It's like if an evil scientist wanted to create the most annoying person of all, they would still come close to competing with her! - Barbara was shocked to notice that Kara was not wrapped in the Lasso, which she tried to hide, but that was enough to make her angry.
(Barbara) - Harleen was trying really hard to be friends with you guys and this is how you're going to pay her back?
(Zee) - Babs, calm down, we didn't mean to-
(Barbara) - Of course you did! You wanted it so bad, you... you naughty girls! - The whole group was practically stunned to see Barbara's anger. - And I'm sorry but if this is how you're going to treat my best friend, then... maybe we shouldn't be friends at all! - Everyone was getting a little nervous, while Johnny took the lead.
(Johnny) - Barbara, you can't leave. Please-
(Barbara) - Shut up! You're going to say something about wanting to give her a chance when it was obvious that you didn't want to!
(Johnny) - I was going to, I wanted to... - However, it was enough for Johnny to explode with rage now. - I'm sorry if we're not happy, but at least we're telling the truth about your friend Harleen, and the truth is she's completely insufferable! - The boy's anger was enough to make the redhead even more appalled by the situation, including the rest of the girls, in that he seemed to have reached his limit. - Your little pranks are simply reminding me of the trauma I had from Jason in Coast City. Can you blame me for that? I don't think so. - Slowly, his energy began to emanate in surprising ways, leaving the girls worried. - The truth is that your best friend torments us, irritates me to a certain point, she even did a trick with the bucket of water and humiliated me in front of people! If you want me to tell you the truth, I'm telling you the truth now, and I'm making it very clear: I don't like your friend one bit, even more so considering the way she's been picking on me. - He opens one of his hands, irritated. - See this here? This could be seen as a middle ground for what I believe. - At this point, Diana, Zee, Kara, Karen, and Jessica were a little concerned to see how Johnny was reaching his breaking point now.
(Barbara) - She's my best friend, Johnny. And I thought we were friends. You should welcome her with open arms, not treat Harleen like a pain in your bodies!
(Johnny) - And what did you want me to say? Let all this happen and be quiet! I don't think so. You want my guess? Your little friend can stay far away from us, as far as I know, because I've had enough! - She turns into Atlas and flies out of the place, while Barbara goes up the slide, leaving the girls alone.
(Jessica) - I think they went too far.
(Diana) - When a man feels trapped, he explodes. His breaking point has revealed itself to some unimaginable degree and now, our friend has lost a bit of himself. - The Amazon looked to the side, worried. - And we have lost a friend.
Atlas was flying over the city, practically annoyed. Landing, he began to walk, nervous. Losing a little control of his powers, unseen, some glass began to shatter. Seeing a group of thieves breaking into the bank of Metropolis, he appeared in front of the criminals.
-Looks like Atlas decided to show up now. - The masked leader shot towards Atlas, who used his powers to stop the bullet being launched in front of him. Using his strength, he threw the leader on top of a pillar, knocking him out, and took care of the other three criminals using part of his powers, firing several bursts enough to be able to knock out the thieves, being cheered by the crowd, while using his powers to start flying, noticing how he seemed to be evolving slowly and gradually now.
(Johnny) - "I've never felt this good. It's like all the insecurities in my body are gone." - The boy flew over the city, while getting a bit of anger in his body, using his powers to be able to keep an eye on people, while seeing another crime happening. Three thieves breaking into a jewelry store. In just a few seconds, the young hero managed to turn each of them in to the police. - "I'm managing to use my powers and I don't seem to be losing control of them right now." - Channeling some of the powers within himself, he took off again, being surprised to see what he was managing to do. - Incredible.
Johnny was angry about his fight with Barbara, but still, he couldn't help but worry about her. The first friend he had made in Metropolis and now, the two of them had had a fight. Slowly, the hero began to pace, half worried. His anger was still growing, and as he passed near a window, he saw himself, different. Being able to see the aura of his own powers emanating from him, but still, feeling like he was missing something. As if he was seeing two parts of himself, one with the powers and the other worried.
(Johnny) - "I just wanted to understand how to resolve this situation. But all these powers I have in my body, they make me feel good. Like everything just disappears." - Taking off again, the hero landed on top of a building, taking a break as he realized that he might be losing control of his power again like he did in the fight against Livewire and Icestreak. Sitting down for a while, he could relive his personal traumas a bit.
He couldn't let it all end this way. As much as he had some anger in his body and was angry, he had to believe that Barbara would not let them down. The boy picked up his phone and started calling Barbara, worried. Little by little, he waited, until he didn't get any result, going to voicemail. Johnny sighed a little, trying to find the right words to talk to the girl.
(Johnny) - Hi, Barbara. If you're listening to this message, I wanted to say how sorry I am for what I said. The problem really is the trauma I had at my old school and any sign of a prank has left me with a little fear in my body that I still can't get rid of. - He looks away, visibly nervous. - I know what I said about Harleen was out of line, but the truth is, it's those traumas, the fact that I keep harping on the same old theme that any supposedly harmless prank could end up going wrong for me. You were the first friend I ever had here in Metropolis, and I'm not about to throw that away. If you'll forgive me for my words... I'm willing to give your friend a chance. The problem is like I said, it's the trauma. Since Jason's time, I've felt a little isolated, but you guys have taught me to try and open up again. - The kid really had a constant preoccupation with everything that was going on. But he was willing to make things right now, no matter what it took. - If you get this message, I wanted you to know how sorry I am. - Disconnecting the call, he started walking. Landing on the side of an alley, Johnny turned again, standing a few feet near the gym. - Well, what do I have to lose now?
At the same time, Diana began to walk, in search of Johnny. Determined to bring her friend back to normal, it was clear how there was something inside him that worried her. Accompanied by Jess, Karen and Zee, they could sense something different with him. Slowly, the Amazon gave a smile, remembering where she could be. Entering the gym, they saw Johnny practicing some moves, punching a training bag, making Zee look a little surprised, as did Jess and Karen.
(Zee) - Do you spend most of your time around here?
(Diana) - It is a healthy training. A hero's duty should be important, as well as their preparation for future combat. As an Amazon, I try to push my body to the limit to protect those people who believe in us.
(Karen) - He seems kind of nervous.
(Diana) - Our friend channels his strength into something. It seems his traumas got the better of him and now, he's trying to solve his personal problems the only way he knows how. - Slowly, he struck a blow, managing to rip the training bag out of place, throwing it to the ground. Surprised by the strength of the blow, Johnny grabbed another bag, and started punching again, trying to improve a little the strength of his attacks, concentrating everything he had inside his body without having to use his powers to get results. Slowly, he saw Diana, Jess, Karen, and Zee approaching as he continued to throw his punches during practice.
(Jessica) - Don't you think you're exaggerating a bit?
(Zee) - You are forcing something you cannot control. - Zee was genuinely worried about her friend, as was Diana.
(Johnny) - What can I say? Sometimes it helps me calm down a little. The fact that I know something I can't understand affects me, even more so considering all that has happened now.
(Karen) - I know you're upset about Harleen, but what you said to Barbara was a little out of line. - He threw several punches as he thought about what he should say.
(Johnny) - I know. The problem is it's not just Harleen. It's everything. - The speed of his strikes began to increase as he thought about what he should do now. - Coast City was kind of a rough time for me when Jason came into high school. Her pranks reminded me of my bully's, and I tested trying to open up to people again. The problem is that she reminded me of certain things I'm trying to forget. - He increased the speed of her blows, in which Diana sees that Johnny has been doing this for quite a while now, seeing some of his hands getting peeled off, but no injuries. - Sometimes I wonder how to deal with this, but now I realize that what I said went too far.
(Karen) - We all have something to be afraid of. But what you had was-
(Johnny) - A reaction to my traumas. - Keeps taking a few jabs, pretty much worried about himself. - Sometimes people think that the fact that I get quiet now and then means I don't want to say anything, but that's because most of those times, if I say something, I seem to feel enough built up anger to want to make everyone angry. - Slowly, he starts to feel the fatigue in your body as he slowly and calmly hits the training bag again. - And when I explode, everything usually goes wrong. - Diana put one of her hands on the boy's shoulder, as he sighed a little at the nervousness in his body.
(Diana) - There is no telling what will happen now. You once said you were afraid of your powers. Now you're afraid of losing Barbara. - He sighed, trying to keep his calm. - We're all afraid of something, I've said that many times, but instead of dealing with the problem, you're trying to isolate yourself, as if it's your fault.
(Karen) - You need to stand firm now. You act as if you feel the weight of the world on your back.
(Johnny) - I'm trying to figure out what I should do. My way of acting causes these problems, and it seems that when I got angry a few hours ago, I seemed to have better control of my powers. I didn't lose focus, I was able to fly, which surprised me. But I need to figure out how to fix things.
(Diana) - It's already a first step to admit that you made a little mistake. - He tried to hold back the tears that might fall, until he leaned on Diana, crumbling to see what he had done. - We all have flaws, but you let your fear dominate your emotions. Barbara will be our friend again. At least, in that I believe.
Barbara, on the other hand, was in the comic book store with Harleen. Still dealing with the effects of her fight with her friends, she seemed to see in her best friend from Gotham a bit of her past before she moved to Metropolis as a sign that she still had something to fall back on.
(Harleen) - What's wrong, friend? Aren't the comics in perfect condition? - Goes to an employee, throwing a Batman comic book on him. - Hey freckles! What kind of store are you running here?! - Harleen seemed to be missing the point of why Barbara was a little discouraged.
(Barbara) - No, it's not that. It's just... my friends in Metropolis are such assholes and... we can't hang out with them anymore. But it's okay. It's just you and me against the world. Just like it was in Gotham City. - She was at the point where she didn't seem to care about her friends anymore, willing to be with only Harleen, as her true, best friend.
(Harleen) - Aw, Babsy-Wabsy! We can totally hang out, if that's what you want. Or, we could hang out with some new girls I've met. It'll be fun. - The smile on the blonde's face seemed to make it clear how much fun she felt they were going to have, as did Barbara, however, there was something that worried the redhead because of her best friend's half-exaggerated smile.
Barbara's fears were confirmed. That was because the friends Harleen was talking about were the mean girls in the group who were tormenting her classmates at school, and their idea of a joyride was just the opposite: Destroying mailboxes, practically vandalizing everything around them, noting how she was visibly concerned about what was going on, with the car moving at too high a speed, to say the least.
(Harleen) - Are you all right, Babsy?
(Barbara) - Yeah, sure... just to be sure, we'll replace the mailboxes with new, nicer, better mailboxes, right?
(Pamela) - No. We are destroying them because they are pieces of death wood that people fill with other things or dead trees. - Jason was on Leslie's side, while at the same time, enjoying the situation with everything that was going on.
(Jason) - Tell me, Les: Is this fun or not?
(Leslie) - I agree. - The two had been partners since Leslie's blog period a few weeks ago, but now, it seemed like their friendship was starting to develop to some degree.
(Harleen) - Don't listen to them. After all, this is supposed to be fun! - As she passed another mailbox, Barbara felt she had reached her limit.
(Barbara) - STOP THE CAR! - She then got out of the vehicle that Selina was driving, keeping a bit of worry in her body because of what was happening now. Slowly, Barbara made a sign to Harleen outside the car, in which she tried to talk to her best friend. - I think they bought it. Let me call my father. Maybe he can take us to a movie or something.
(Harleen) - Babsy, I... I don't want to go to the movies.
(Barbara) - Oh, well... what do you want to do? - Doris signaled to Harleen, getting her attention, making Barbara realize what she was talking about.
(Harleen) - Look, I'll see you in the morning, okay - Barbara got a little nervous.
(Barbara) - All right. - The car drove off, and in that, Babs realized something difficult: She had just cut out the first friends she had made in Metropolis in favor of old friends. In the process, she didn't realize that her best friend might be different, too. Tears fell from her eyes as she realized this situation. Two worlds. And now, she cut those two worlds off for nothing. At the same time, Babs got the voice mail from Johnny, as she started walking, worried. - What's the point of him wanting to say anything now?
Back in the car, Harleen was given an opportunity to smash the mailboxes in front of her. Excited, she destroyed every one of them, demonstrating a madness of greatness in her body.
(Harleen) - Smashing mailboxes is fun and all. But you guys want to see some REAL fun? - With a smile on her face and a few minutes later, she blew up a post office, giggling triumphantly showing her friends how Harleen Quinzel did it. - And that's how you guys smash a mailbox!
(Jason) - You read my mind now! Now that was fun! - He does a high-five with Leslie and Pamela, showing how his mind was having fun in every possible way. - You know, even I wouldn't have thought of something on that level. One little idea, exploding, and avenging everything in some unimaginable way. I like this girl. - She looks at Leslie, remaining confident.
(Leslie) - Indeed. She has proved quite a potential now.
(Jason) - You know, Pam, we could do this a few more times too. Where you see the pain of nature, I see a chance to rebuild. Even though it doesn't look like it, I see it. - He seemed to agree with everyone else's opinion. Pam just nodded her head, a little gloomily.
(Selina) - I have to agree with these two now. Are you ready to see something really cool now? How would you like to have some real fun?
With that, each looked at themselves, beginning a transformation. Closing her eyes, Leslie transformed into Livewire. With a pulse of ice in his body, Jason gave way to Icestreak, the enemy of the hero Atlas. The violet ring in Carol's hands demonstrated her love and passion, revealing Star Sapphire. Forcing her muscles, Doris transformed into Giganta, practically gaining more strength than ever. Selina then revealed a costume she had on, giving way to Catwoman, the agile and subtle thief who steals from her victims without a trace.
(Harleen) - You guys are villains? Why didn't you say so in the first place?
And so, letting her madness shine through, Harleen Quinzel became Harley Quinn. The Joker's number one fan and one of the most lunatic villains of them all. At this, the girls began to laugh, making it clear that the night was just beginning, waiting for what she would now bring.
On an island, Deva was beginning to prepare a warship, determined to set sail for the World of Men. Knowing that she needed to defeat Princess Diana, it was a plan that had to be put into practice. Starting to row, the warrior began to walk, while slowly making clear her confidence in the face of everything that was happening now.
(Deva) - "Many have used violent tactics to win wars. But this is my personal battle. My father was imprisoned by the Amazons and the Gods. It is a mission that took years to put into place. Hippolyta's terror and fear will stay with her for the rest of her life when she loses the one person she loves most in this world. Many use unexpected tactics, but how do you defeat an enemy who is unaware of your existence?" - He gives another smile on his face as he leaves for Metropolis. - "The easiest answer: by making that enemy your friend."
To be continued...
Author's Note: Surprised? This chapter is going to be divided in two parts, as promised to all of you, dear readers. We're close to start the first arc of this story, and the next chapter will be a punch in the gut, with one more glimpse of Deva in this arc. See, i've researched about her in some websites, and I promise to you, that this version of Deva will be a little different, besides the things she deals with strength, as this glimpse showed to all, you can wait to see a little more tactic version and determined of this formidable enemy.
And I can promise you: The little love arc pending around this story is not over. You can see Johnny is going for Zee, in the moment, but in some future chapters, you will see that he could be a little more divided around who he really loves. Well, to estabilish the timeline, this chapter happens before #Beeline and after #LoveTriangle, #SheMightBeGiant, #FightAtTheMuseum, etc. One last thing: There might be some changes in the story's rating, because i'm thinking about put some more serious stories, just to have action, drama, but without removing the comedy that's present around the plot. There might be some explicit scenes, but your opinion, my dear readers, is always welcome here.
You're all going to be for a wild ride here, but I won't spoil anything here, so keep your minds open to the unexpected. That was it for today, see you all next time!