Chapter 20
The Terror Beyond
Watchtower
Ash was getting ready in his quarters. It was one of those rare days where Ash was the emergency call, so basically he had the day off. What made it better was Harleen was in the same position too. So with them being off from duty, they decided to take advantage of this rare opportunity and go on a date. Where they both were heroes, it was very rare for them to have days like this. Ash had just gotten out of the shower and walked out, about to put his clothes on. He got as far as his jeans when there was a knock on his door.
"Come in." Ash said. The door opened and Lucario walked in, which surprised Ash. "Hey Lucario. What's up?"
"Ash, I was wondering if you were taking any of the Pokemon with you while you are gone?" Lucario asked. Ash wasn't really planning to take any Pokemon with him. He was going to leave the Pokemon on the watchtower in case the League needed their help. Since Flash and Diana had their Pokemon battle, the rest of the League have had some practice with them. Ash was confident that both the League and Pokemon would be able to work together effectively now.
"No, I was going to leave everyone here." Ash said. Lucario didn't like the sound of that.
"I think it would be wiser to at least take one Pokemon with you, in case something happens." Lucario said. Ash gave a sigh. He knew what Lucario was like. He wouldn't stop unless Ash does what he says.
"If it makes you feel more at ease, I'll take someone with me." Ash said. Then came a difficult decision, who to take? "Now let's see, who should I take?" Lucario saw he was having a tough time deciding so he made a suggestion.
"Might I offer my services?" Lucario asked. Ash looked at him.
"Are you sure you want to come along? it might get boring for the third wheel." Ash said. Lucario always had an answer though.
"I will be inside my pokeball, meditating. It will be no problem for me." Lucario said. Now he said this, Ash didn't feel too bad about Lucario giving up his time.
"Ok, if you insist. Grab your pokeball quickly." Ash said. Lucario nodded and left the room. Ash went back to getting ready for his date. Then he had a thought. "Lucario coming along shouldn't hurt." 15 minutes later, Ash was heading to the observation deck to meet Harleen. Lucario was in his ball and on Ash's belt. Ash made it to the deck and found that Harleen was already there waiting for him. She turned around and smiled when she saw him.
"Hey sweetie, you ready for our date?" Harleen asked. Ash smiled when he heard how excited she sounded.
"Always beauty. Shall we go?" Ash said. He held out his arm for Harleen. Harleen smiled at his gesture and linked arms with him. They started walking away but didn't get far as Flash stopped in front of them with a camera in his hands.
"Smile." Flash said as he got the camera in position. Ash was surprised with the sudden appearance that he accidentally pulled a silly face. Harleen just looked confused at what was going on. CLICK! Flash had the picture. Flash looked at the photo and grinned. "Oh that's good. It looks like you two are going to prom."
"I thought you said you were going to stop doing these things." Ash said. Flash remembers that conversation and remembered what he actually said.
"I said I'd stop it as soon as you turn 18." Flash said. Oh yeah, Ash remembered now.
"Oh yeah. At least I'm nearly 18 so only got a little while to go." Ash said, looking smug. Flash pretended to look tired.
"I know. Like me, time is going to fast. Also I'm finding it hard to find time since I'm helping with your surprise par..." Harleen was quick to run up to Flash and cover his mouth before he spoiled anything. Ash caught a little of it.
"What was Flash about to say?" Ash asked. Harleen suddenly changed her attitude. She turned to Ash and grabbed him.
"Nothing, he's just kidding. We better go, bye." Harleen said. Her and Ash left the room and the began their date.
High Street
Ash and Harleen were walking along in the high street. They were heading to their first location of the day. Ash had planned a series of activities for the day. They wanted to make the most of the day since they might not have this opportunity for quite a while.
"So Ash, where are we going first?" Harleen asked. Ash looked at her with a smile.
"I thought I'd beat you at your own game." Ash said. Harleen looked at him confused. What did he mean by that?
"What do you mean?" Harleen asked. Ash and Harleen stopped outside of a building.
"You do like arcade games, right?" Ash asked as he pointed towards a building. Harleen looked and had a excited look on her face. It was an arcade with all the best games that you could think of. Harleen turned to Ash and kissed him on the cheek.
"You know me so well." Harleen said. Harleen ran into the building and going from one attraction to another, not able to decide where to start first. Ash slowly walked in and was finding it amusing how his girlfriend his acting. Harleen looked round a little more before she found what she wanted to play first. "Oh yeah, let's play this first." Ash looked at it.
"Air Hockey?" Ash asked.
"Yeah. Believe it or not, when I was younger, I used to play this game non stop. And I'm quite unbeatable at this game." Harleen said. She knew Ash and knew how to push his buttons. Now that Ash heard that she was unbeatable, Ash suddenly got very competitive.
"Is that so? Well that won't be the case any longer as I'm the Air Hockey master." Ash said as he got on one end of the table and put the puck on the table. Harleen put herself on the other side and got ready.
"So are we going to talk of are we going to play?" Harleen asked. Ash was ready.
"Game on." Ash said as he hit the puck. 2 hours later and Ash and Harleen we're heading to the next location. Harleen had a happy look on her face while Ash looked defeated. "I can't believe you won every game."
"What did I tell you? I'm unbeatable." Harleen said. Ash looked at her with a determined face.
"Oh yeah? Well tomorrow, I'm going to call Batman and get a Air Hockey table set up in the break room in the watchtower." Ash said. Harleen thought this was funny.
"If you want me to beat you again, then ok." Harleen said.
"I'm not going to lose next time." Ash said. Harleen looked ahead and someone. The person was far away but she did look familiar. Harleen tried to focus her eyes to see better. As she got closer, the image became clearer. Then Harleen knew who it was.
"I don't believe it, it's Ivy." Harleen said. But Ash had no idea who she was talking about.
"Whose Ivy?" Ash asked. Harleen quickly took his hand.
"You're about to meet her." Harleen said as she started dragging Ash. They were getting closer and closer. Harleen was now close enough to call out to her. "IVY!!" Ivy looked at where her name was being called and saw the two stopping in front of her. She instantly recognised Harleen.
"Oh Harley, it's you. I didn't expect you to see you." Ivy said. Harleen smiled at her response.
"Same old Ivy. Always tries to act tough but has a soft interior." Harleen said. She that remember that there were some introduction need to be made. Harleen brought Ash forward. "Ash, this is my best friend, Ivy. Ivy, this is my boyfriend, Ash." Harleen didn't need to introduce him as Ivy already knew who he was.
"Yeah I know who he is. I'm a loyal watcher of Pokemon watch." Ivy said. Ash looked a bit embarrassed.
"Thanks I guess." Ash said. Then something started poking his mind. "Ivy, that name sounds familiar." Ivy was a bit surprised.
"Really? I thought Harley would of told you by now." Ivy said. Ash looked at Harleen and she gave him a nervous smile.
"You might of read her profile on the watchtower database. Poison Ivy?" Harleen asked. Ash suddenly remembered.
"Oh, I know you. I did read that you and Harleen did partner up a while back." Ash said.
"Yeah. That was back before the Justice League was formed. Speaking of that." Ivy said. She then looked at Harleen. "I still can't believe you're apart of the Justice League now."
"I wouldn't be in it if it wasn't for Ash. He showed me that I could be so much better then I was with the Joker." Harleen said linking arms with Ash.
"Well, I'm glad for you Harley. I better go now. I still got to pick up a few things." Ivy said.
"Ok. We should meet up at some point. I'd love to catch up soon." Harleen said. Ivy smiled at this.
"Sounds good to me. It was nice to meet you Ash. I'll talk to you soon Harley. Bye." Ivy said as she walked away. Ash and Harleen waved goodbye to her. Harleen looked Ash.
"She's such a good friend." Harleen said. Ash looked at Harleen.
"Are you sure it's a good idea to meet her again?" Ash asked. Harleen was confused.
"What do you mean?" Harleen asked.
"Well, I don't want her leading you back into a life of crime. You come s..." Harleen stopped Ash.
"Sweetie, you got nothing to worry about. You changed me for the better and nothing will change that." Harleen said smiling at Ash. Ash felt better with her saying that. "Now come on, let's head to the movies." Ash and Harleen started walking towards the movie theatre. But unknown to them, three figures have been following them.
Restaurant
Ash and Harleen arrive at a fancy restaurant. They got here right after the movie. They watched Zombieland: Double Tap. They enjoyed themselves there. Now Ash and Harleen were waiting in a line to get into the restaurant. And it was easy to see that their patience was running out.
"Come on, I'm starving." Ash said. Harleen couldn't agree with him more.
"Yeah, we've been standing here for an hour now." Harleen said. She then had an idea. "How about this Ash? I go up and see if I can get us in now. If not, we'll go to a fast food joint and head back to my place." Ash was considering it. Either thing they do, they were going to get food faster.
"It's worth a shot." Ash said. Harleen quickly kissed him on the cheek.
"I'll be right back." Harleen said as she walked away from Ash. A few seconds after, Ash's receiver started going off. Ash took it out of his pocket and answered it.
"Hello?" Ash asked.
"Ash, I know it's your day off but could you meet us at Atlantis?" It was Superman. But it was Ash's day off. Unless it was an emergency, Ash didn't need to do any hero work.
"Now? I'm still in the middle of date though. Is there no one else to can help?" Ash asked. Ash didn't know what has happened.
"Ash. A sea creature attacked civilians. We just want to find out if Arthur knew anything about. And I know you have a good relationship with them." Superman said. Ash gave a sigh. It was unavoidable.
"I get it." Ash said. Ash looked over and saw Harleen coming back. "I'll meet you at Atlantis." Ash turned off the receiver and put it back in his pocket. Harleen stood in front of Ash.
"Well, it looks like we're heading home a bit more earlier." Harleen said. Ash barely made eye contact and gave a guilty smile. Harleen knew something was up. "Ok what's going on?"
"Superman called and something's going on with Atlantis." Ash said. Harleen really didn't want him to go.
"Do you need to go?" Harleen asked.
"I asked the same question and they really want me there." Ash said. Ash could see Harleen was upset but she tried to cover it up.
"Just make sure you come back as soon as you can." Harleen said. Ash did feel guilty for doing this to her. Ash quickly leaned in and kissed her on the lips.
"I promise to make it up to you." Ash said. He then turned around and walked away. Harleen just stood there. Was he always going to answer any call for help? Harleen just then started walking towards her apartment.
Atlantis
Ash had just arrived at Atlantis and wasn't in a good mood since his date night with Harleen got interrupted. When Superman called, he didn't actually say that it was an emergency. Ash would lose if this was something that got blown out of proportion. Ash reached the throne room and it looked like Superman, Wonder Woman, Hawkgirl and Queen Mera were having a heated argument.
"Did Atlantis have anything to do with the attack on the surface?" Superman asked. Mera shook her head and stood her ground.
"No we didn't and it's quite hurtful that you think we would do that." Mera said. Hawkgirl didn't believe she was telling the whole truth.
"Listen Queen, were not afraid to tear this place to find answer." Hawkgirl said. Wonder Woman whispered into Shayera's ear.
"What are you doing, that's a bad idea." Wonder Woman said. Mera took Hawkgirl's words as a threat.
"You touch a single wall, then that will be a declaration of war." Mera said. Armed guards in the room got into position, getting ready to fight the League. Ash had enough.
"STOOOOP!!" Ash shouted. This caught everyone's attention. Ash walked forward, walking past the League. He stood a few feet away from Mera and knelt to the ground. "Queen Mera, it is good to see you again." Mera walked towards Ash and stood in front of him.
"It's good to see you too Ash, but I told you not to greet me that way." Mera said. Ash stood up and looked at her. Surprising everyone, Mera hugged Ash and Ash hugged back. "This is better." Ash broke the hug.
"Sorry, I thought with everyone here that it be best to be formal." Ash said. The League members still wanted questions answered.
"Do you mind explaining what happened?" Wonder Woman asked. Both Ash and Queen Mera looked at the League.
"After our mission back at the Arctic Circle, I kept in contact with Arthur. I invited Arthur on the surface see a bit more of the world. And Arthur invited me here to see Atlantis and because of that I gotten to know Mera better and also on occasion looked after Arthur Jr." Ash said.
"When did that happen?" Hawkgirl asked. Ash did very well to keep that secret.
"Really recent. In fact, Me and Harleen did it last week. She really enjoyed it and called it mock parenting." Ash said. Mera laughed at that answer.
"She really does have one of a kind mind." Mera said. Superman was getting impatient and wanted to get back on topic.
"We're running out of time here. Queen Mera, please, tell us what you know." Superman demanded. Mera didn't take too kindly to his manner.
"And like I said, it is not my place to say." Mera said. Hawkgirl started advancing.
"Then I'm going to have to force it out." Hawkgirl said. She quickened her speed and went towards Mera. Before she reached Mera, Ash stood in between them. Hawkgirl stopped in her tracks.
"Ash, out of the way." Hawkgirl said. She wanted the information, but not in a million years would she even think about hurting Ash. Ash had determined eyes.
"You called me away from my date with Harleen and the way this is heading, you're about to start a war. You called me here, so I'm doing it my way." Ash said. Hawkgirl only just realised that he was right. She was about to end peace between land and the sea. Hawkgirl stood down and Ash turned to Mera. "Mera, if there's something going on, I just want to help Arthur." Mera knew Ash would never do anything to betray Atlantis trust. So she decided to tell him what she knew.
"I don't know the whole thing myself, but Arthur said he needed to help Dr. Fate." Mera said. Superman knew this name.
"Did you say Dr. Fate?" Superman asked. Everyone looked at him.
"You know him?" Mera asked.
"Yes, and when he's involved with something, it means the whole world could be in danger." Superman said. That doesn't sound good.
"Do you know where he is?" Wonder Woman asked.
"Yeah so we better head there now." Superman said. He then looked at Ash. "We're more likely going to need your help too." Ash sighed.
"I was hoping to go back to Harleen." Ash said. He then turned to Mera. "Thanks for your help and thank you for looking after my friends while the Justice Lords were a threat."
"You are always welcomed at Atlantis Ash." Mera said. Ash gave a weak smile. He then started making his way out the room. "I best text Harleen." He took out his phone and started typing with the heroes following him out the room.
Watchtower
Harleen was sitting on Ash's bed on the watchtower. Since Ash and Harleen began a relationship before Harleen became a part of the Justice League, the League thought it wouldn't hurt if she shared the room with Ash. She looked at her phone, she just read the text message from Ash saying that he was going to be a while. Harleen put her phone to the side and laid on the bed. She was looking forward with her time with Ash, but now he's busy. After today, the next social thing she was going to do was have a girls day out with Ash's friends. She was looking forward to it as well. They were her friends and she would protect them no matter what. But, they weren't her first friends. She saw her first friend today and she can't remember the last time when her and Ivy hanged out. She would like to catch up with her. Should she invite her to the girls day out? She would like if they all got along. Surely it wouldn't hurt to ask Ivy. Harleen picked up her phone and dialled Ivy's number. Harleen put it next to her ear and heard it ringing. It rang a couple of times before the phone picked up.
"You missed me that much already?" Ivy's voice came through the other side of the phone. Harleen smiled at the sound of her.
"Ivy. What have you been up to?" Harleen asked.
"After I saw you and your boy toy, I came back home to my children." Ivy said. Harleen knew Ivy was referring her plants as her children. "Talking about him, I thought you'd be having the time of your life with him. Is he that boring that you need to talk to me in the middle of your date?" Harleen's mood came down a bit.
"Actually, Ash got called away and our date got cut short." Harleen said.
"What? He ditched you? Right he's getting a piece of my mind." Ivy said. Harleen started panicking. The last thing she wants is for her boyfriend and best friend to fight each other.
"No. It was out of his hands. He had to help." Harleen said. Ivy wanted to know what she meant.
"What do you mean out of his hands?" Ivy asked. Harleen let out a sigh of relief. At least she's got a chance to explain.
"It was suppose to be mine and Ash's day off, so we weren't suppose to be doing any hero today. But there are exceptions, like the world being in danger." Harleen said. Ivy calmed down a little.
"I guess it's understandable then." Ivy said. "Why did you call then anyway?"
"Well, next Thursday, me and some of the girls here are having a day out and I was wondering if you wanted to come along?" Harleen asked. Harleen didn't know what was going through Ivy's head after hearing this.
"Is it a big group?" Ivy asked.
"It's a big small group." Harleen said.
"I'll see what I can do. I'm robbing a few banks before then but I'll try not to get arrested." Ivy said. Harleen was internally jumping for joy at this point.
"That's great. I'll send the details later on." Harleen said. "I'll let you get back to your kids now."
"Thank Harley, bye." Ivy hung up the phone. Harleen put her phone away and started collecting her thoughts. She then realised a potential problem.
"I better clear things with Batgirl first before she finds out." Harleen said as she got up and walked out of the room.
Forest
Ash and the other League members just came out to an opening in the forest. After leaving Atlantis, they took a javelin as close as they could to the location. During the ride, Ash was pretty grouchy because the League did mislead him on the emergency. The League did really feel bad about dragging him along and cutting his date short. They said after everything was done, one of them would switch their shifts round with Ash so he can have another date with Harleen. In the opening in the forest, there stood a building with no windows or doors. It just looked like a solid statue. But Superman knew that wasn't the case.
"We're here." Superman said. He walked towards the building and the others followed closely behind. Superman reached the building and put his hand against it. "When were inside, stick close together."
"But it doesn't seem like its special. Just a ordinary sculpted rock." Wonder Woman said. They were about to be in for a surprise. Superman reeled his fist back and punched the wall, making a giant hole.
"Does that look ordinary?" Superman asked, gesturing inside. The heroes looked inside and were not expecting what they saw. There was a staircase right in front of them and that was it. The inside of the building looked like endless space. "Like I said, stick together. You might get lost if you slip or wander off." Superman entered the building and led the way. The others closely followed Superman, heading up the stairs. It took them nearly an hour before they found a room. It looked like a ancient Egyptian tunnel. And in the distance, they could hear yelling.
"Someone's in trouble." Ash said. He started running.
"Ash, wait." Hawkgirl said as her and the other heroes chased after Ash. It took Ash 2 minutes to find who he was looking for. Aquaman. But he wasn't alone. Laying in the centre of the room was Grundy. There was also a man with a golden helmet and a woman. The other heroes caught up with Ash and Superman instantly recognised the owner.
"Dr Fate, what are you doing?" Superman asked. Now the owner and the others knew they weren't alone now. They looked over to the heroes.
"Superman? What are you doing here?" Dr Fate asked. Meanwhile they were still torturing Grundy.
"Stop that now." Ash said as he charged in. The woman came in between them and put up a force field. Ash collided with the barrier and got knocked back. Ash landed and because of the barrier suddenly coming up, he became unconscious. The League members were now mad.
"You'll pay for that." Hawkgirl said. She flew towards the barrier and readied her mace. The woman saw her approaching and got ready for any kind of attack. Hawkgirl hit her mace against the barrier and it looked like the barrier was holding. Wait, it's cracking. The barrier was starting to break apart. Hawkgirl gave it a little more force and the barrier broke. The force knocked out the woman and Dr Fate saw this.
"You fools." Dr. Fate said. Stopping the ritual they were doing on Grundy. "We have to finish what we have started. You have no idea what is..."
"New people go away." Grundy said as he jumped up and started attacking Superman. Wonder Woman saw an opening and charged towards Aquaman. He caught sight of her and was able to defend himself from the attack.
"What were you doing to Grundy?" Wonder Woman asked. Arthur was able to overpower Diana and threw her back.
"What was necessary. But because of you, you put the whole world in danger." Arthur said as he jumped and stabbed towards Diana. Diana sidestepped and Arthur gave chase to her. Dr. Fate saw all this and he really didn't have time for all of this.
"I can't have any distractions. I'm sending you all away." Dr. Fate said. He threw out his hands and portals opened up over Superman, Grundy, Wonder Woman and Aquaman. The portals came down and they disappeared. As soon as they were gone, Hawkgirl tried to attack him but he moved out of the way. "Halt your assault now. It is of upmost importance that I finish the ritual."
"Tell it to my mace." Hawkgirl said as she flew towards him again. Dr. Fate fired a magical blast at her but Hawkgirl deflected it with her mace. With all the ruckus, Ash was starting to open his eyes. He pushed his arms against the floor and lifted his top half of his body of the floor. Ash looked up and saw Hawkgirl and Dr. Fate flying around, damaging the surrounding area. Ash looked over and the unconscious woman was in a dangerous place as he saw there was some near misses with debris. Ash quickly got up and ran over to the woman. More debris were falling and it was heading towards the woman. Ash quickly grabbed the woman and tuck rolled the both of them out of the way. They barely got to safety. The sudden movement jolted the woman awake and she saw Ash and the battle.
"This can't happen now. Fate must finish his spell." The woman said. How important was this spell?
"What is going on?" Ash asked. The woman had a chance for Ash to know how important the current situation is.
"If Fate doesn't finish his spell, an ancient evil will come to our world and all of humanity will be doomed." The woman said. Ash wasn't getting a straight answer from anyone. His best shot would be from the actual doctor himself. But with Hawkgirl in the way, he can't talk to him. He needed a way to handle Hawkgirl and Dr. Fate at the same time. Oh, he should of brought a Pokemon with him. Wait a minute. Ash does have a Pokemon. Ash reached for his pokeball and threw it in the air.
"Lucario, restrain Shayera." Ash said. The ball snapped open and Lucario appeared behind Shayera. He gave her a bear hug. With the loss of mobility with her wings, both Shayera and Lucario hit the ground hard. Ash stood in between Dr. Fate and Hawkgirl. He saw him flying in and Ash went to put up a barrier. But something occurred. Ash did put up a barrier but it was a dome surrounding Dr. Fate. Ash was shocked this happened. How did he do that? Hawkgirl looked up at Lucario.
"What are you doing? Let me go." Hawkgirl said. But Lucario was determined to keep her in place.
"I'm sorry Shayera but I can't disobey Ash." Lucario said. Hawkgirl didn't like his answer and tried to struggle out. As she tried to get out, her eyes caught something on the wall. The runes.
"Is that?" Hawkgirl asked herself. Dr. Fate blasted energy at the dome that was trapping him. Some of the energy did get past the dome but most stayed inside. At this point, Superman and Wonder Woman walked back in, dragging Grundy and Aquaman unconscious bodies and saw what was happening.
"Let me out of here now." Dr. Fate demanded. Blasting me energy. Ash wasn't going to listen to him until he had answer his questions.
"Only when you tell us wh..." Ash didn't get to finish as the room began to shake. Dr. Fate knew what was happening and urgently looked at Ash.
"You have to let me out before it's too late." Dr. Fate said. Ash and the heroes looked round. Lucario let go of Hawkgirl and the both stood up. The walls were starting to crumble and a spacial realm was starting to show. Ash knew he had to let Dr. Fate go since he's to best chance at stopping this. He put down the barrier and Dr. Fate was free. But it was too late as the walls crumbled and they were standing in a strange dimension. A tear in the dimension suddenly appeared. "I'm too late." A giant skull creature suddenly appeared.
"What's that?" Superman asked.
"The start of the end." Dr. Fate said. Really? Did they fail? There must be something they could do. Ash was trying to think of something. As he was thinking, another dimension tear opened up.
"Another one?" Wonder Woman asked. To their surprise, it was help. Dialga, Palkia and Giratina came out of the tear and used their signature attacks at the strange creature. The creature can be heard screeching in pain.
"Alright, keep it up guys." Ash said. With the creature hurting, it wasn't at its full strength and Dr. Fate had to take this opportunity.
"I can seal it and send it back." Dr. Fate said as he reached out his hand. He then started chanting a spell. The tear started to close but very slowly. The creature was slowly advancing forward towards the closing portal. "I won't be able to close it in time. It's going to get past." Hawkgirl then stood next to Dr. Fate.
"Need a hand?" Hawkgirl asked. Dr. Fate looked at her. Hawkgirl extended her hand and started chanting. She knows the spell? Dr. Fate shook himself out of his shock and resumed the spell. The tear was closing faster now. The skull creature was still coming forward and still might be able to make it through. Ash knew the Pokemon can keep it back.
Come on guys, one last push." Ash said. The legendaries increased their power and pushed the monster back. With one last strain from Hawkgirl and Dr. Fate, they managed to close the portal. They did it. The Pokemon stopped their attack and flew towards the other heroes. "I haven't been more happier to see you guys. But how did you know that we needed help?" Lucario came forward.
"They sense a danger from a dimensional reality. This is something that fall under their expertise so they can be a big help. But they said that they might not be enough for the evil coming." Lucario said. Palkia roared and Lucario nodded. Lucario then looked at Ash. "Hold out your hands." Ash did what he was told. A tiny portal opened up and two pokeballs landed on Ash's hand. "Mewtwo said that these two Pokemon should be here soon." Ash couldn't believe it. He was about to have two new additions to his team. Dr. Fate looked at everyone.
"That was too close. If you all didn't interrupt the ceremony, this wouldn't of happened. But thank you for your help." Dr. Fate said. He then looked at Hawkgirl. "By the way, how did you know that spell?"
"I recognised the to runes that were on the walls. It's my native language on my home world, Thanagar. The chant you were doing was a prayer." Hawkgirl said. Aquaman and Grundy were starting to wake up and picking themselves up. Wonder Woman step forward towards Dr. Fate.
"Ok, start talking. What just happened?" Wonder Woman asked. Dr. Fate knew he was going to have trouble sorting this out by himself and needed their help. Dr. Fate then looked at Aquaman and he nodded at him.
"Ok, here's what's going on." Dr. Fate said as he conjured up images. "Thousands of years ago, Atlantis floated above the waves, ruled by sorcerer-kings. In the reign of King Poseidon, the ancient world came under attack by the Old Ones, extra-dimensional beings who were preparing the way for their master, Icthultu. Poseidon drew upon nearly all of Earth's ambient mystical energy to create the Trident, which destroyed the already present Old Ones and sealed Icthultu's portal. However, it also caused Atlantis to sink beneath the waves by draining the energy that kept Atlantis above the water."
"Old ones?" Ash asked as he looked at the space where the creature showed up. Was that an old one? Superman realised that he left one information out.
"But why did Grundy needed to be involved with this?" Superman asked. Aquaman decided to answer this one.
"Before you arrived, we were casting a spell which would of prevented Icthultu from returning here. And for the spell to work, it needed a host. Since we didn't finish it, the threat still remains." Aquaman said. Host?
"Host? That looked like torture." Ash said. Hawkgirl then added her own opinion.
"Much more like a sacrifice." Hawkgirl said. But Hawkgirl remembered the name all too well back on her world. "I know Icthulta." Everyone looked at her. How does she know? "Icthultu is a god on my planet. My people worshipped it and in return, Icthultu gave us the resources we need to thrive." It was great knowing all this, but Dr. Fate knew time was being wasted
"I don't mean to be rude but the boarder between our world and Icthultu's is still open. We need to complete the spell to seal it off for good." Dr. Fate turned to walk away but was quickly stopped.
"Does it still involve killing Grundy?" Ash asked. Dr. Fate stopped and looked at Ash. He knew the answer already without the doctor saying anything. Ash looked at Grundy. "Grundy, do you know what will happen to you if you go through with this?" Grundy looked at Ash and nodded.
"Yes, Grundy knows what will happen and Grundy wants to do it." Grundy said. They couldn't believe what he just said. But some of the League members still weren't happy.
"Whether you're willing or not. No ones being sacrificed. Is there another way of stopping all this?" Superman asked. Hawkgirl had a answer.
"There is. We can go to the old one's world and kill Icthultu before he makes it here." Hawkgirl said. Could they get there themselves?
"Is that even possible?" Lucario asked. Dr. Fate quickly answered.
"It is but it will be dangerous." Dr. Fate said.
"Tell me something new." Wonder Woman said. Ash came forward to offer his help.
"Me and my Pokemon will come along to help." Ash said. Lucario nodded and the legendaries roared in agreement. Hawkgirl then said her piece.
"This affects all of us so we're all going." Hawkgirl said. The other league members nodded. But Aquaman had other ideas.
"Not me. I have a duty to protect Atlantis, only Atlantis." Arthur said. Dr. Fate looked at him. He would of liked for Arthur to help them but he knew he wasn't going to stay long.
"I understand, I thank you for your assistance." Dr. Fate said as he opened up a portal. "This will take you back home." Arthur nodded and started walking to the portal. But then stopped and looked at Ash.
"I hope what has happened today hasn't affected our partnership?" Arthur asked. He was talking about the ritual on Grundy.
"I can't say I agree with it. But I understand why you did it." Ash said. Arthur nodded and walked through the portal. The portal closed. Dr. Fate then looked at the woman.
"Inza, please stay here and act as our beacon so we can find our way back." Dr. Fate said. Inza nodded at the request.
"Of course husband. Please be safe." Inza said. This new fact was a shock to Ash.
"YOU TWO ARE MARRIED?!" Ash shouted. Everyone looked at him. Inza thought his reaction was funny.
"Yes, we are husband and wife." Inza said. But Dr. Fate was about to drop a spoiler for Ash.
"You'll be proposing to your girlfriend, Harleen soon so it be best to get used to this sort of life." Dr. Fate said. This caught everyone off guard.
"WHAT!!!?" Everyone shouted. Hawkgirl looked at Ash.
"So, when are you popping the question then?" Hawkgirl asked. Ash's face turned bright red at this point.
"I haven't even thought about that." Ash said. He then looked at Dr. Fate. "When am I suppose to ask her?"
"I'm afraid I can't tell you too much about your possible future and besides we have wasted enough time." Dr. Fate said as he opened another portal. "This will take us to Icthultu's world." They heard the legendaries roar and opened a portal themselves. They went in them and they closed. Did they leave already?
"Where did they go?" Superman asked. Lucario answered.
"They are able to reach the world themselves so they will meet us there." Lucario said as he turned round and walked towards and through the portal. Ash then closely followed behind.
The Old One's World
Ash made it through the portal and saw where he was. He saw Lucario and they were standing on a rock that looked like a asteroid. And they were in another dimension for sure as the space was orange and other rocks were just floating about. Ash looked behind him and saw the others come through before the portal closed. Wonder Woman looked around.
"Where are the other three?" Wonder Woman asked. She was referring to the legendaries. They heard cries in the distance and saw them flying about the place. "What are the doing?"
"Keeping watch over us. If they see anything, they'll take it out before it reaches us." Lucario said. At least they have got some aerial cover. Grundy had a question.
"What happens now?" Grundy asks.
"Now we search for Icthultu." Hawkgirl said. They started walking along the pathway they found. Having no idea if they are going in the right direction. They have now been walking for 3 hours nothing happening. Which is good, right? Dialga, Palkia and Giratina were close by making sure to give cover where they can.
"Something doesn't feel right?" Wonder Woman said. Everyone was wondering what she was talking about.
"What do you mean?" Ash asked. Diana looked round.
"We've been in this realm for ages now and everything seems peaceful. Not even the Pokemon with the power of the gods have seen anything yet." Diana said. Some of them didn't see a problem with it though.
"That should be a good thing though, right?" Superman asked. Hawkgirl knew this wasn't the case.
"No, this should be the time where we should be on guard. Enemies always attack when you least expect it." Hawkgirl said. Lucario then sensed something, but something wasn't right.
"Something's not right." Lucario said. Everyone looked at him. "There's danger coming and its coming in every direction, even the ground." As he said that, the ground started to break apart and rock beings started to appear.
"What goes on?" Grundy asked. Nobody knows. This is the first time they have encountered them so they don't know what their strengths and weaknesses are. One of the beings stretched out their hands and sounds waves started coming out of the palms. The wave hit Ash and got knocked back. Ash thought he was going to hit the ground but Grundy caught him and put him down on the ground. Did Grundy really help Ash? Ash looked up at Grundy.
"Thanks." Ash said. He then looked at the rock that hit him. "So that's your power." Ash then produced a aura sphere and threw it at the rock. The sphere hit and the being immediately crumbled. "But you got poor durability." Ash looked at everyone. "We can break them a part."
"So what are we waiting for? Let's get smashing." Hawkgirl said as she flew in and started smashing the rocks. Everyone spread out and handled different areas. Lucario looked at the legendaries and saw they were on their way.
"Lucario, how long will it take for them to get here?" Superman asked.
"A minute, so we need to keep them occupied for now." Lucario said. But Dr. Fate had a warning.
"They need to get here soon, this battle might attract unwanted attention." Dr. Fate said. He had a point. With the noise the battle was making, it will sure to bring in bigger problems if not dealt with quickly.
"But that might be good if it attracts Icthultu." Wonder Woman said. She wrong and right with that answer.
"Yeah but it would of been better to if we gone for a sneak attack." Ash said. He punched two more rocks, causing them to crumble. Ash went to hit another one but one of them hit him on the side, causing him pain. "AAHHHHHHH!!!!!!" Ash rolled along the floor and came to a stop. Ash looked up and saw three of them standing over him. They held their hands. This was going to hurt. Before the sound waves hit, Hawkgirl quickly flew in, grabbed Ash and flew out of there. He was safe. Ash looked at Shayera. "Thanks for that."
"You don't need to thank me. Besides, I thought you'd like to see the show." Hawkgirl said. What show? Ash saw the legendaries fly past them and started attacking the rocks. All the heroes were off the ground with Dr. Fate lifting Lucario and Grundy up. Each attack that lands, a explosion would occur and many of them would be destroyed. After 20 seconds, only very little were left. All of the sudden they started running.
"Ok that's enough." Ash said. The legendaries stopped attacking and the heroes landed back on the ground.
"We can't let them get away." Dr. Fate said. Superman and Wonder Woman started to fly towards the runaways.
"Don't worry, we'll handle this." Superman said. As him and Diana disappeared into the distance. But Lucario has an uneasy feeling.
"They're not running because their losing." As Lucario said that, a large shadow overcast the rest of the group. They turned round and saw a giant version of an old one. "They were running away because something was coming."
"Icthultu." Dr. Fate said. This was the thing they had to kill? It's massive. How are they going to do that? Icthultu's eyes moved down at the group and instantly saw Hawkgirl. It's tentacles wrapped around her wrist and ankles and dragged her up in front of him.
"Shayera!!" Ash shouted. Icthultu looked back down at the group.
"Destroy them." Icthultu said. Suddenly, old ones started to appear and attacked the group. Everyone spread out again.
"We need to get to Shayera." Ash said.
"Right now, we need to get rid of everything else." Dr. Fate said. He dodged a attack and blasted energy at one of the old ones. It some damage. Ash looked and the legendaries and saw they were taking down the old ones but very slowly getting towards Shayera.
"Come on guys, you need to hurry." Ash said. Icthultu drew Hawkgirl closer to his face.
"I remember your kind. You would quiver to your knees to the sight of me." Icthultu said.
"Yeah, but then you left." Hawkgirl said.
"I had to expand my options and make sure that I was always fed." Icthultu said. By the size of him, he would of needed 10 whole buffets. Then Hawkgirl remembered a something about his diet.
"You mean you were looking for more souls to take." Hawkgirl said. Not too far off, Grundy heard what she said. He turned round and looked at Icthultu.
"Big head has Grundy's soul?" Grundy asked. He did a powerful jump and headed straight towards Icthultu. "Give Grundy his soul." Grundy punched Icthultu and gained entry into his head. Icthultu felt pain and let go of Hawkgirl. She flew away to compose herself. Icthultu was about to grab Hawkgirl again but he then got hit by an attack. He looked over and Dialga, Palkia and Giratina circling around him and attacking in various places. Icthultu tried to swat them away but they keep on evading the attacks. Now they got some breathing space, Ash wanted to know something.
"What did Grundy mean he wanted his soul back?" Ash asked. Dr. Fate looked at him.
"Grundy is a zombie, he is a lifeless corpse so he currently does not own his own soul." Dr. Fate said. Ash looked over to him. "That's the reason he came with us. I promised that I can restore his soul."
"But you were killing him when I saw you." Ash said.
"His soul would've been returned to him after he passed over. Icthultu is able to feed on souls for a long time. But I can take a soul without him noticing it's gone. If I take too many, he would notice and would make it harder for me to rescue the souls." Dr. Fate said. So Grundy was going to get what he wanted after all, and him and the League stopped him from it. He had to help him. Hawkgirl hovered next to Ash.
"Grundy's got the right idea. We need to get inside and attack." Hawkgirl said. Ash liked the idea.
"Ok, do you think you can get us in there?" Ash asked. Hawkgirl doubt it.
"If I'm carrying you, then we'll more then likely get swatted away before we get in." Hawkgirl said. Ash looked over to Dr. Fate.
"Can you help?" Ash asked.
"I won't need to, your new friends are here." Dr. Fate said. What? Ash's belt started glowing. The pokeballs. He took the two pokeballs and looked at them.
"Icthultu's going down." Ash said as he threw the pokeballs. They snapped open and the Pokemon zoomed towards Icthultu and hit it with Dragon Pulse. The big head screeched in pain. The new Pokemon flew back to Ash and stopped in front of him. Well, this was a surprise to Ash. Latias and Latios. "It's great to see you two again. We can say hi to each other later. Do you think you can get me to the head?" The Pokemon nodded. Latias lowered herself and Ash got on her back. Ash looked at Latios. "Stay on the outside and help the others." Latios nodded. Ash looked at Hawkgirl. "You ready?" Hawkgirl's mace started sparking.
"Always." Hawkgirl said.
"Let's go." Ash said. In a split second, Ash was nearly at the head. He never realised how fast these Pokemon were. Shayera caught up with them.
"Flash is going to fun racing them." Hawkgirl joked. Oh though, that would be interesting to see. They reached the ear canal and made their way to the centre. Giratina got hit by a tentacle and got knocked back. As the tentacle was retracting. Latios came in and used dragon claw, slicing it off. Latios looked at Giratina and they nodded at each other before continuing to fight Icthultu. Ash, Hawkgirl and Latias we're flying along through the passage way. The head was big but they were fast so they should reach the brain in no time. Hawkgirl saw something up ahead. It looked like...
"Ash stop." Hawkgirl said. Latias stopped and Hawkgirl landed next to a body. It was Grundy and something didn't seem right. He looked, dead. Hawkgirl lightly touched Grundy's face and he heavily opened his eyes.
"Grundy feel different." Grundy said. After what Dr. Fate told Ash, he had an idea.
"His soul's slowly returning to him. We must be near." Ash said. Can it be true? And if so, would that mean Grundy will..? Grundy lightly grasped Hawkgirls hand.
"Please, finish this and free me." Grundy said. Shayera was holding back tears and nodded to him. She stood up and looked at Ash.
"Let's do this." Shayera said. She flew ahead and Ash and Latias followed. It took them less then a minute to find what they were looking for. The brain. Ash was about to tell Latias to go forward but Hawkgirl stopped him. "Ash, let me. This is personal for me." Ash looked at her. He nodded and stayed in place. Hawkgirl approached the brain with her mace sparking. On the outside. Dr. Fate was watching the Pokemon taking down the remaining old ones, impressed with the coordinated attacks. Dr. Fate looked to the side of him and saw Superman and Diana land next to him.
"We finished off the last of the rocks." Superman said. Then he saw the new addition. "Another Pokemon?"
"Two. The other one is with Ash." Dr. Fate said. Diana looked round.
"Where is he and Hawkgirl?" Diana asked. Lucario came up beside her.
"They're inside Icthultu trying to end everything." Lucario said. This shocked both the heroes.
"We got to help them." Diana said.
"I wouldn't worry so much." Dr. Fate said. As he said that, Icthultu yelled in pain and starts falling to the ground. It crashed. The tentacles stopped moving. They won. The legendaries flew back to the heroes.
"Are they ok in there?" Superman asked. Lucario knew how to find out. He looked at Latios.
"Do you mind?" Lucario asked. Latios nodded and his eyes started glowing. Then everyone's surroundings changed.
"What's happening?" Diana asked.
"Sight sharing. We're able to see what Latias can see." Lucario said. They saw Hawkgirl and Ash kneeling next to Grundy. Grundy looked at them.
"Did we win?" Grundy asked.
"Yeah we won." Ash said. Letting out a few tears. Grundy looked at Hawkgirl.
"Do you think my soul will get into heaven?" Grundy asked. Hawkgirl had a hard time getting the words out.
"Grundy, I don't believe in so..." She stopped when she felt something on her shoulder. She looked at it and saw Ash had put his hand on her shoulder. He looked at her with a face saying, don't do that to him. She looked back at Grundy. "You did a heroic act today, so yes your soul will go to heaven."
"And we'll see you up there real soon." Ash said. Grundy was fading. He had one last thing to say while closing his eyes.
"Good." His eyes shut. He was gone. Ash and Hawkgirl hugged each other crying while everyone outside watching was tearing up as well. Grundy came into this world a villain and he left this world a hero.
Private Cemetery
Ash, Superman, Shayera, Diana and Lucario were standing over a gravestone with it saying 'Grundy, born on a Monday.'
"At least he's at peace now." Superman said.
"A brave warrior to the end." Diana said. Ash walked up to the gravestone and placed a hand on it.
"Like I said, we'll see you up there soon." Ash said. All of a sudden, a portal opened and Dr. Fate and Inza came out of it.
"What are you two doing here?" Shayera asked.
"Superman invited all of us." Dr. Fate said. Him and Inza stepped a side and more guests came through. Aquaman, Mera, Arthur Jr, Harleen, Kate, Barbra, Batman, Flash, Green Lantern, Martian, Pikachu, Mewtwo and all of Ash's friends. Harleen came up to Ash.
"Hey sweetie." Harleen said as she kissed Ash. Superman then got everyone's attention.
"I'm glad you all could make it. Just follow me." Superman said as he started to walk away and everyone followed. Ash had no idea what was going on. He looked over at Harleen.
"What's happening?" Ash asked. Harleen looked at him.
"You'll see soon enough." Harleen said. She then linked her arm into Ash's. Superman came to a stop in front of another gravestone and turned and looked at everyone.
"I never knew Delia Ketchum but I felt it be right to give her a proper send off." Superman said. Ash's eyes went wide. Did he just say his mum's name? Ash looked at the gravestone and saw what was written. 'Delia Ketchum, Beloved mother of the future Pokemon master.' Superman pulled out a letter. "This is a letter from Delia after Ash and everyone came back from that fake Pokemon world." Ash remembered that. There was two letters. One for him and one for the League. Superman opened the letter. "Justice League, first I want to thank you for looking after Ash when he arrived at your world. He needed some guidance in your world and I'm glad he found you all." Superman then looked out at everyone. "She then goes to mention everyone, so when I call your name please step forward. Batman and Green Lantern." Both the heroes stepped forward. "Thank you for the guidance you have given Ash throughout the time he's been here. He will see you two as a fatherly figure. I ask that you two continue to guide him."
"We will." Both the heroes said.
"Diana." Superman said. She stepped forward. "Thank you for keeping an eye on Ash throughout this time. He sees you as an sister that he can always depend on. Please continue to watch over him."
"I will."
"Flash and Martian." Superman said. They both stepped forward. "Ash will see you as uncles. The funny one and the serious one. He will come to you from time to time for wisdom or to laugh with. Please continue to support Ash in you own way."
"We will."
"Shayera." Superman said. She stepped forward. "I want to thank you the most. You stepped up as a mother figure for Ash in his time of need. Ash had grown up so much with you looking after him. Please continue to raise him as if he is your own."
"I will."
"Superman, thank you for protect Ash when times were dangerous. He sees you as a big brother he can always turn to. Please continue to watch over him." Superman said. He looked at Ash. "I will." He then looked back at the letter. "Harleen, I will get to you later but I need to mention everyone else." Everyone listened closely. "I am so glad Ash has so many friends and he will need you all from time to time. Please continue to support Ash."
"We will."
"Harleen." Superman said. Harleen looked at Ash first before stepping forward. "I want to thank you with all my heart for all you did. I know what you used to be like, but I don't judge people based on their past. Mistakes happen in the past and that's how you grow from it. Ash has never been so happy in his life since he met you. You two will be together for a long time and have lots of adventures together. In and out of the Justice League. I would of loved to have met you in person and welcome you to the family. Please continue to be by Ash's side."
"Forever, I will."
"Ash." Superman said. Ash stepped forward. "I know I have given you a letter. But I just want to say that I love you, I'm always watching over you and we will see each other again. And your dad wants to say something." Ash's eyes went wide. His dad? "I'm so proud of you Ash. You have always been the hero in the family. Keep on doing your best and I will be in your dreams ready to play catch with you." Superman finished the letter and looked up. Ash had his head down and let out a few tears. He hadn't heard from his dad for years. It was nice to hear from him and his mum again. Ash looked over to Harleen and wrapped his arm around her waist.
"I would of love for you and my mum to meet." Ash said. Harleen smiled and kissed him on the cheek.
"Me too." Harleen said. Ash felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned around and saw Arthur and Mera standing in front of him.
"You are remarkable young man. Your parents raised you well." Arthur said. Ash nodded.
"Thank you." Ash said. Ash then saw something. He looked over and saw Arthur Jr reaching out to him. And everyone else saw this.
"Looks like someone wants to see their uncle Ash." Mera said. Ash smiled and took Arthur Jr from Mera.
"Hey big guy. At some point, you'll have adventures for yourself and I'll be there whenever you need me too. You want to work on your walking again?" Ash asked. Arthur Jr laughed as a response. "I'll take that as a yes. Ok here we go." Ash put Arthur Jr on the ground and held him up by his hands. Harleen walked just a few feet away and kneeled down. "I think auntie Harleen wants a hug. Come on, let's go." Ash started to guide Arthur Jr towards Harleen. Everyone else was giving Arthur Jr encouraging words. But from the distance, 3 figures were watching the whole thing. The same 3 figures back from Ash and Harleens date.
That's the end of the chapter. I hope you have enjoyed it. And the big question is, who are the 3 characters?
I know this took longer to be published, but during this time, my dog passed away and I really needed sometime away from everything so I'm sorry it took a while.
Like always, I'll be working on the new chapter for My New Life Academia. Then after that I'm back here.
Next time. Another supervillain team up and the Justice League splitting up. What's going on? Find out next time in 'Secret Society.'