AN: OK, so there's a bit of a weird, strange concept that I did in the middle of this chapter. A bit of a small description of how the mid-credits visuals would look like and a fanmade song I written that would play in the background. It's an experiment that I'm doing here. Details on the fanmade song in the bottom author's note.
Sit back, relax and enjoy.
Recommended Background Music
[1] So Busted - Culture Abuse
[2] I Started A Joke - ConfidentialMX feat. Becky Hanson (repeat 0:00 - 0:41)
Chapter 20 - In the End, the System is Broke
The news of the Suicide Squad taking down Starro has spread around really fast. With Corto Maltese safe, this allows all journalists and news reporters to check in on the damage. By the time Waller wakes up, the media is already flooded with questions and wonders about the group of mismatched criminals taking down an entire giant starfish.
Tyla is one of the first, playing around with a few kids at the orphanage. She doesn't expect the news to show another superhero incident, but it's far from being a stereotypical one.
A young, brown-skinned woman with blonde hair appears on the TV, her face lit up in excitement to explain what just came in. "In breaking news, a group of escaped convicts saved a city of millions on the small island nation of Corto Maltese today. This mysterious giant starfish came right out from the Jotunheim tower, but if it wasn't for these heroes, then the entire city would have been gone. The death toll is rising, but authorities from around the world are quickly sending reinforcements to help the survivors from the attack."
Tyla lifts her head when the television presents the footage of the squad fighting against Starro. To her surprise, her father was right there.
Not as Bloodsport with the damning helmet.
But as her father.
His face to reveal all as he tried to take down the giant starfish with his helmet. Despite not having any significant impact other than raging the beast, her father held his own ground without running away.
"That's my dad…" she muttered, wondering if it is a dream.
However, it proves not to be a dream when the television cuts to an interview with the resistance fighters celebrating near the government palace. As Sol Soria isn't with them, it is currently Juan who takes her role to inform the whole world.
"Because of these people, Corto Maltese will have free democratic elections for the first time in ninety years!" said Juan, a happy and relieved smile on his face. "We may not exactly know the full nature of the giant who attacked our home, but all our efforts lead to here! I-I know that we may not be able to recover quickly, but I believe that we'll have a brighter future!"
This must be proof. If these resistance fighters did meet up with the squad, then that means the squad really did protect those people. As they all start to chant 'viva Corto Maltese' in victory, everyone looks on in wonder. They are all surprised that Corto Maltese is liberated, thanks to the squad's actions in taking down the giant starfish.
This is going to be a legend in history.
Tyla's smile widened. For once, she is actually proud of her father. She isn't sure if taking down that starfish was the objective, but even if her sentence is given out, she is proud that her father steps into battle. He didn't hide his face like the many times when he put on that suit.
He became a true hero. Not even fearing of his real face being seen.
Tyla isn't sure how she is going to tell her dad about this since a lot might have been going on. She will still remember him as the weary, pathetic, old and hardened father she got. But somehow, he isn't too far away in leaving an impact. And this impact is for good. This is what Tyla actually wants; to help those in need instead of feeding on the bad habit of stealing.
"That's my dad," she said to everyone, tears in her eyes.
However, just because what was seen as a legend in history doesn't mean all answers will be revealed. This is the case back in the ARGUS communication hub where Waller, sitting in an office with Moone and Crawley, watches the video evidence retrieved from Jotunheim on her screen. The ice pack she is using to cool the bump on her head isn't helping how much of a headache she is having.
Bloodsport has managed to move all the evidence from the hard drive right onto a secure server. With the tablet he has, he used it to sign into an account he can control and right into a server connected to the ARGUS server. Not only that would contain evidence of Project Starfish, but it would remain there forever without Waller being able to delete it.
"Now, if you kill any one of us or my daughter ever sees the inside of a prison, it goes public," instructed Bloodsport. "If we all go free, it never has to see the light of day. Remember, I'm the only one who has access to this, so think wisely."
Waller doesn't need to think twice about it. She is going to lose her newest iteration of Task Force X. It would take much longer to find other criminals suitable for her missions and easier to control. But she sent them all there on one mission and it turns out, they earn a good reputation by the public. They technically got her what she wanted, but she must swallow her pride to really have it.
However, she is also impressed that she got turned around for real. Without some kind of idiot doing a half-baked plan that could make it easier for her to blow someone's head. She doesn't need to look at Moone and Crawley as she answers back without hesitation.
"I told you I'd make you a leader, DuBois," she congratulated. "You got a deal. Your ride back home will be there soon. Good luck."
Static fills the comms, meaning that all chances of trying to communicate with the squad members are gone. As soon as they return to Belle Reve, they'll be free under Waller's forced demands. She turns to see Economos and Harcourt in quiet anger, but she cannot really do anything as effective payback to them. Not even in a way that she can be satisfied.
Moone is right next to her, her jaw slumped upon the reckless blackmail. Bloodsport isn't wrong in forcing Waller to let them go in exchange for the evidence. If it does go out and the squad is killed, then questions will be raised and the American government will be eventually dragged into it. Especially since the squad just saved millions of lives and they have families that need them.
However, it doesn't feel right to her. Flag wouldn't want this. He would show this evidence to the world in a heartbeat. It makes his death completely pointless as he died trying to do the right thing. It makes her feel more empty than usual.
What keeps her head straight up is what she has learnt from Waller so far. And from the team as well. There are still some good people alive. She owes them a lot for defying Waller and her goals.
"So…" she said. "From what Bloodsport said…did you order Peacemaker to kill…Flag?"
Waller actually takes this question seriously. "It wasn't my orders. He did so. I made it clear that he wasn't allowed to kill the colonel. If anything, I would be fine if he killed the others if they interfere."
The way Waller put it displayed that she is a bit surprised that Flag did indeed die. Even though she did try to place him on Team A to die on the beach, with him guiding the others, she expected that he would make it out alive. Moone wonders if Waller cares, but it doesn't sound like she is holding anything personal towards Flag now.
"What is exactly your intentions for this mission?" asked Moone. "Is all of this to help the American government?"
Waller shrugs. "Ever since the collapse of the first iteration, I had to take back my worth. I took that chance and swore to protect the States no matter how much it takes. Sacrifices have to be taken for this sort of thing."
Crawley tilts her head. "Is it?"
Waller smirked sardonically. "I will admit that if this isn't black ops, slaughtering people wouldn't be necessary. But in this business, you have specific orders to do. I believe that the people of Corto Maltese weren't worth saving since I expect that the Navy or the Air Force would do better."
"Surprised by how much you decide to not trust the squad you created," said Moone sarcastically. "Especially since you trusted them in getting the job down of destroying evidence of Project Starfish."
"Let me ask you this," questioned Waller. "Why trust them? Why support them for getting the job down? When it isn't meant for them?"
Moone doesn't need time to think about what she will say. "This squad is full of so many criminals, villains and even the strangest of all. But...what I've heard so far, the squad keeps growing and it is connecting people together. If Flag managed to survive this long, then that means being with Task Force X changes people…for good."
Waller raises her eyebrows. She actually doesn't expect this. While she notices that Flag was happier and more cheerful, she thought it was due to being reunited with Moone. This goes with the fact that she hired a bunch of new criminals to be on the squad, so it would take longer for any of them to get along. Out of sheer luck, she picked the right ones who ultimately prove that they can save the day without needing orders from someone above them.
The squad proved to be capable in taking down Project Starfish despite losing a few of their own. Bloodsport managed to blackmail her with the right moves to ensure that she cannot find an angle. She thought of manipulating Tyla, but it would be pointless since the young child would already know what her father did and hide from the rest of the world. She underestimated them once again.
She couldn't help but nod. "Touché. But what about doing what could be beneficial for our country?"
"I would question the government," said Crawley. "OK, I don't know what exactly is going through your mind, cousin. Well, sort of. But we're not on the same page. I am aware that exposing information about Project Starfish to the world might be a crime, but it got me thinking. Why try walking away from something that could serve justice in the right way? And if the government learns and tells the truth, then this could mean…they can make an effort in being good as well? Cliche or not, it would be better than reinforcing…bad habits. Like how criminals would have reinforced their own bad behavior."
Waller has a thought about it, aware of these things. She can see that both Crawley and Moone have decent points. While she has many things she is able use to argue against, she cannot argue back. Her headache might get worse and she has to accept her utter loss now.
"June Moone," said Waller, barely quietly. "Flag told me once that he thinks he might be suited to lead the squad. He thinks you too after what you did following breaking free from Enchantress. I can see now what he means."
Moone is surprised to hear this sincere compliment. "Wait, are you saying that…I can lead the squad?"
"I had some considerations on who should lead Task Force X when I'm gone. You can try to, but as long as you know how to tell them that you're not-"
"I don't think I'll be using intimidation. Or manipulation and mind games. Besides, I'm not exactly a government figure, so…I don't think this is a good time now to do so."
Crawley gives Moone a smile. "I think you can be a leader of the squad. Help them out. Flag would be proud of you if you did so."
Thinking about this nearly brings Moone to tears. She wouldn't want to take over Flag's spot on the squad. She doesn't want to disrespect him. However, with the squad free, maybe she can guide them as a better person than Waller. Maybe these guys can become her new family after losing Flag.
Moone nods, wiping her eyes.
The three women turn around at the sound of knocking. It is a police officer.
Just because everyone in the communication hub isn't willing to follow Waller's orders of not helping the people of Corto Maltese doesn't mean that they are completely against the law. One of them called over the cops to arrest Crawley for attacking Waller.
Crawley stands up, deciding to accept this as if letting the authorities continue to make fools of themselves. "OK. I'm ready."
"Hold on," said Waller. "We shouldn't place you in prison over something like this."
"You think?" asked Moone, raising an eyebrow.
"Oh yeah," said Crawley, chuckling a little. "Like the many times we did slap each other with metal objects like these."
"Wait, what?" said Moone, concerned.
"I'll address all of this to the White House tomorrow," explained Waller. "This is probably the first time anyone in ARGUS made a statement like this, so I believe your concerns should be shared before you got to court.."
Crawley smiled. "Glad that you're deciding to pass the message along. Let's hope it leaves a small crack on the government's pride, shall we?"
Moone isn't sure if Waller is kidding. Remember, Waller might learn from this and be wiser on getting what she wants. However, it seems that she has to play fair now that the squad did the world and their country a good blessing. She can't talk back at them since this would cost her entire dignity. Moone decides to play it humbly since there are other things she has to focus on. She doesn't want to waste her time on someone who can't be able to touch on her life after all.
She smiles a little, hoping to find some sort of closure when she meets Bloodsport again. "Yeah. We shall."
Things seem to fall quiet so far from where the squad is at. As the city is still in shambles and panic, the people haven't come in yet, leaving a lack of audience to cheer them. However, they don't want it because they are mourning for the losses they went through while waiting for their ride to pick them up.
Ratcatcher II is sitting right near what remains of Polka-Dot Man. It is too hard to see his body; all she gets is a puddle of blood and the broken-colored suit that is now stained. With a piece of the suit in her hands, she sobs softly, unable to process the loss of her friends. First Flag and then Polka-Dot Man…she doesn't know where King Shark is, but she is too scared to try finding his body in case she would be presented with a gruesome sight.
T.D.K remains nearby, patting her on the shoulder. With his exposed face, he looks down back at the ruined, bloodied suit, fondly remembering Polka-Dot Man and his incredible powers. While they had little time to talk to each other, he knew that this guy used his power as a true superpower to save the world. They sacrifice a lot to help people.
The teal-cladded now-superhero looks around to see all the bodies. All covered with the mini Starros on them with their eyes unmoving. It is a devastating sight since they were innocent people who were violently taken over by an alien. Soldiers are one thing as well, but on top of that, Blackguard is definitely gone as well.
Boomerang notices that T.D.K's shoulders are shaking. The Australian slowly walks over to him and the mourning Ratcatcher II.
"You two doing alright?" he asked.
"Uh…y-yeah," lied T.D.K, trying his best to remain stoic. "Never been…I…Hertz…"
He is unable to finish his sentence as his shoulders droop and begins breaking down into tears. His sobs are especially painful since it more sounds like him unable to breathe. Seeing this, Boomerang lowers himself down and wraps a comforting arm around T.D.K. Ratcatcher II decides to lean her head onto his shoulder, weeping as well.
On the side, Weasel is silently crying, his fur already wet due to the tears running down his face. Soria remains by his side, patting him on the head while remembering the deaths Flag and Savant boldly took. Both risked their lives to do the right thing and while it nearly appeared that it became worthless, they did a lot that bring them here alive.
Soria owes Flag a lot for allowing her to come along and giving her a fighting opportunity to take control of the political power ruling over her island. And with hopes of other forces coming over to support Corto Maltese, she doesn't have to fear anymore. When Weasel purrs softly, this gets her to remember that she made a breakthrough by sympathizing with Savant. It nearly came to him as much as Weasel slowly bonding with her.
"You know what's funny?" she said, chuckling without humor. "Savant took my words to heart and this must be why he saved you from being squashed. He could have been redeemed and be with the right people. Flag would have let that happen. Now…he's gone."
Seeing her closing her eyes, Weasel chitters and places his chin onto Soria's back, hugging her in a comforting embrace.
"If you can also hear me, Abner," whispered Soria. "I'm proud of you. From what I was told, you did good from what you did."
Bloodsport has just finished his call with Waller, tossing away his earpiece with the red hard drive still with him just in case. Harley is nearby, depressingly kicking a few rocks off the rubble they are standing on top of. The sun shining all over them doesn't seem to make any of them feel happy about doing this deal.
Somebody comes right out from the rubble in the distance. Despite having bloody teeth marks and bruises all over him, King Shark appears to be fine as he slowly waddles his way toward the squad.
Ratcatcher II looks up, gasping in relief.
Immediately, she runs off and glomps him.
Seeing the young girl again makes King Shark's chest warm. He nearly smiles, but when he looks up, he notices that several of the squad members are missing. He notices that Polka-Dot Man isn't with them.
"Polka?" he asked.
"He's…gone," said Ratcatcher II somberly. "He's now with Flag."
King Shark is left confused. He has some sort of understanding of death, but…where did they really go? Why do they have to go? Why do they have to be the ones to be dead? Before, he would have been more than happy to eat them alive.
However, with several squad members dead, including Polka-Dot Man, he feels strangely empty.
As if something is missing from his heart.
"He did well, Nanaue," said Ratcatcher II softly. "He helped us. He…"
Feeling her loss, King Shark places his arms around her, returning the embrace.
"There, there, friend," he said. "Don't be sad…"
Bloodsport smiles, glad that King Shark is alive as well. This would also make Ratcatcher II happy. As he observes the scene, he hopes that the remaining survivors will recover from this.
There are a lot of people who are killed over the past few days.
T.D.K is slowly getting back up with Boomerang patting him on the back. Soria is still holding Weasel in her arms, letting him cry for Savant.
He notices Harley trying to keep herself together, not moving near him.
When she saw Ratcatcher II and King Shark hugging each other, she felt jealous. She still has Boomerang, but she finds herself unable to believe that Flag, Mongal and Javelin are gone. The former two died for nothing when trying to ensure that the evidence of Project Starfish will be revealed. The latter died an honorable death, but she wishes that there should have been another way instead of killing someone that could be her boyfriend.
She is angry. She is angry that these people are ripped away from her life. Even though she learned her lesson about falling for toxic men, this is something that she cannot control. Just when there were good people in her life, they suddenly disappear.
This could have been an opportunity to lead a good future for her since she is still struggling. She is starting to have doubts about getting her happy ending.
Javelin was an opportunity. While he wasn't perfect like he admitted, he is perfect for her in every way. He had his limits, but also trying to find a purpose as well. They would have been a match that could not only heal her, but for both of them to be comfortable and fair in their new love.
Mongal became Harley's first definite female friend on the squad. She could have taught her ways to look up for herself. Harley would have wanted to show her the wonders of the world.
And Flag, his selflessness and bravery felt wasted. He didn't deserve to be on this team where he could die. He was a hero. A good man who took great care of his companions.
It felt wrong to hide the information. She was no hero, even if she tried, but she would have tried releasing it for Flag. He died trying to reveal the truth everyone deserves to know. It became clear to her that this time, it wasn't fair.
Bloodsport felt the way same way about the death of Flag, noticing Harley looking at him with reluctant resignation.
"Look," said Bloodsport sadly. "I know Flag wanted to give the drive to the press. We just saved a whole bloody city. We just became a symbol for all of them. We can't have it all."
Harley bites her lips. Becoming a hero would have meant a lot of pressure would be onto them. And what would that cost for all of them?
"Rick Flag was my friend," she said. "Gunter Braun was my friend. Mongal was my friend. And they're gone."
Bloodsport nods, feeling bitter. "Flag was my friend too. And…I hadn't got many of those before."
Harley notices how tired and weary Bloodsport is. She let her psychiatrist's side take over, diagnosing how frustrated he is. His grief and guilt radiated off him, but also concern for all of them as Waller could have blown their heads off. Both of them are sad about the many people who died.
Even though Harley is at a breaking point, she wants to reach out to the people who are suffering as well.
Maybe this can be her and Boomerang's new family.
"I can be your friend, Milton," she said generously.
Bloodsport stares at her. "Not my name."
"What?!" said Harley, a smile flashing over her as she giddily remembers her brain fart. "What are you talkin' about? We just had a conversation for like three hours about how your name is Milton!"
"Didn't!"
"Yes, we did."
Bloodsport smirks a little. "No. You're not that bad, Quinn. They would be proud of you for saving the world."
Harley smiles sadly. "They would be proud of you for leading us."
The two decide that they better get going before their ride arrives to pick them up. All the remaining survivors group up to discuss what they'll be doing next.
"So, now that we are going back to Belle Reve, are we getting prizes?" asked Boomerang, licking his lips. "By God, I swear Waller better cut down my sentence more than 10 years this time!"
"Wait, what?" said Bloodsport. "Not e-"
"Oooh!" said Harley, perking up. "Do you think they have an expresso machine?"
Ratcatcher II rubs her chin with Sebastian rubbing against her cheek. "I think I might want a hairbrush."
"I like fried chicken?" suggested King Shark.
"Perhaps some magazines left over from that club we went to?" asked T.D.K, giggling.
Weasel chitters, but nobody can understand what he wants as a reward.
"Uh, no," said Bloodsport. "I convinced Waller to allow us to go. Once we get back to Belle Reve, we'll have the bombs removed and then we'll be transported to the States with a truck for us to take."
"So that would mean you'll be going on your own," said Soria. "Do you…have any plans of what to do?"
"I remember now!" said Harley. "I have to get back to Gotham! The Birds of Prey are probably wondering where I am now."
"Eh, I'll just continue doing what I like," said Boomerang with a cheeky grin.
Harley chuckles, knowing what he means.
"I think I'll continue trying to do something…like this," said Bloodsport. "Doing these missions. Maybe I might visit my daughter again."
"Wait, with that said," remarked Ratcatcher II. "How about we make our own 'Suicide Squad'?"
This suggestion got everyone going bonkers.
"What?!" said Bloodsport, a little too loudly.
"Is this a good idea?" asked Soria. "You…are technically free to do what you want. I wouldn't encourage crime, but continuing like this…"
"Waller isn't going to have any control over us anymore, right?" explained Ratcatcher II. "That means we can do what we want, BUT we can also use this opportunity to help others! In places no one can reach out to. Without someone pulling our strings, it would be easy for us to not worry about getting our heads to explode."
T.D.K's eyes brighten. "It…actually sounds like a good idea! I'm in!"
"You're taking that idea immediately?" asked Boomerang.
"I'm just taking whatever I can. We are out of prison, so we can do what we want. This might be my chance as well to be a superhero of my own without needing to spend too long finding a team that suits me. If this doesn't exist, then I would still be in Belle Reve. This squad means a lot to me now."
Boomerang can see his point. After getting to spend time with T.D.K and Blackguard, the Australian can admit that he is growing soft. But that doesn't diminish his own desires. Being free now gives them a lot of opportunities to start over without needing to worry about the government using them. Even if they end up getting caught, it will be unlikely Waller will hire them again. On the squad, it gives him and Harley a lot of new friends and new adventures.
He would want another adventure after toughening up over these years of being on the squad. He thinks that he wouldn't get used to not being on the squad anymore.
"Glad that you found a place to be a softie, mate," said Boomerang, grinning. "I'll come around in case you need my help."
"Oh, sure you do," said T.D.K, jokingly elbowing Boomerang.
"I can try helping out!" offered Harley. "Though, I am with the Birds of Prey, so I'll be a little late."
Bloodsport has a thought about it. "Hmm, I guess that can work. That would mean I have to be the leader, right?"
"Why can't all of us be leaders?" said Harley. "I could try getting Deadshot to lead the squad if you want to."
"We'll decide later. That is if we are rich enough to get a base of our own."
"I think I can help construct one," said Ratcatcher II. "The rats can help out."
"Oooh!" said Harley. "I think I know a good, abandoned mall in Gotham! It has a busted generator, but it probably has the same diseases as here!"
"Ponytail lady not coming?" asked King Shark.
Soria sighs. "Sorry, senoritas. I can't come along. I'm staying here."
"Do you…need help with cleaning up Corto Maltese?" asked Ratcatcher II.
"No thank you. It's all good. You aren't responsible for all of this. Besides, the resistance has a lot of work to do to, so they need me."
She suddenly tips over when Weasel gets in the way. He is leaning a bit too forward on top of her, trying to place his muzzle underneath her chin. Soria groans a little, pulling herself up. The fact that she is practically vulnerable to becoming ill doesn't help.
And then, an idea comes to mind.
"Can I keep him?" asked Soria innocently.
"No," said Bloodsport bluntly.
"Don't be so rude," cackled Boomerang. "Let her have him!"
"I don't think it's a good idea to leave him behind."
"Don't worry," said Soria. "I'll keep my eyes on him. Maybe even having him here would make him a good person as well. Or we can find a cure for him to turn back into…whatever he used to be."
"So what are you going to use him for?" joked T.D.K. "A mascot?"
"Maybe," snarked Soria.
Bloodsport shrugs, deciding to let Weasel go. He rather sticks with King Shark instead of Weasel. If he comes along with them, Bloodsport would have nightmares when in bed without even closing his eyes.
"Suit yourself," he said. "You might have to discuss this with the Belle Reve officials and agents since you will need consent. And a billion bucks to have ownership."
"Got it then," said Soria. "I'll also make sure to build a memorial for those who fall. Maybe…collect the bodies as well for a burial? I might even try to find remaining evidence of Project Starfish if there is any."
"That's a lovely offer," said Harley. "Thank you, girlfriend."
"Still up for the sleepover?"
"Oh yeah," chuckled Ratcatcher II. "I nearly forgot."
"Hmm, maybe we can have it at the Birds of Prey's club!" offered Harley. "That one is a great funhouse!"
Soria raises her eyebrows, intrigued. "I'll look forward to that. Send me the invite!"
Right on time, they found the helicopter flying over to them in the sky. After one last goodbye to Soria and Weasel, the squad turns away and marches forwards, standing tall to mark that they are flying back home as free men.
"Nom nom?" asked King Shark, pointing at one corpse.
"Really?" exasperated Bloodsport. "That is what you're thinking about right now?"
"No…"
"We'll get some takeaway for you, buddy," said Harley cheerfully.
"Thank you!" He points to another corpse. "That nom nom though?
"No," said Ratcatcher II monotonously. "It's not nom nom."
"But they are dead!" points out Boomerang.
"Yes and we'll be sent back into Belle Reve for disrespecting the dead," said T.D.K.
And…
"No!" said Bloodsport, not looking when King Shark points to another corpse. [1]
It didn't take long until they all hop onto the ride. A few other helicopters land nearby with several soldiers coming out to provide supplies and support for the Corto Maltesians. A few surround Soria and Weasel as the former asks for permission to keep Weasel who is waving goodbye to the departing helicopter.
On that ride, the squad rests in the same seats they took from the very start. Exhausted and shaken yet content that they are alive.
Ratcatcher II rests near King Shark, eliciting a big smile on his face. This makes King Shark happy that he truly has a friend who cares for him. A friend who doesn't fear him as a monster. They may have lost a few, but they are still together, no matter where they go.
Harley rests right next to Bloodsport, smiling at him. Right between her and T.D.K, Boomerang wraps his arms around them. Feeling this, Harley sighs as she falls asleep and T.D.K grins, happy to make friends with the squad. Just three mates cruising along.
Bloodsport freezes when he feels Sebastian resting on his shoulder. He looks down, seeing the rat making himself comfortable for the ride home. He has to remind himself that Sebastian isn't a threat, but his mind is telling him to move away. Tense about rats around him. He still isn't comfortable despite being run over by an army of rats.
Looking down at Sebastian, Bloodsport tells himself to see if the rat looks like a threat. He looks more like a mouse than a filthy rat. He appears clean as well and not deadly. He…doesn't have those exaggerated large teeth to bite into his skin.
With a shaky hand, he tries petting him. He closes his eyes, expecting Sebastian to attack back. However, the gentle patting makes Sebastian pur happily before falling asleep. Bloodsport opens his eyes, relieved. A grin starts to slowly form, realizing that he can get past his fear of rats. He can be ready to move on from his fear and past trauma.
The whole road is a bumpy ride as Bloodsport expects, but what he didn't expect was being in the arms of many people who reached out to him. Nearly the first few times he accepts their warmth and let them know how he feels. And with that, it made the whole trip more honorable. The price wasn't great, but for now, he ultimately wins with everyone free and safe. He's going to take in the chance of being with the people he needed while remembering those who joined him on Corto Maltese.
He starts to have thoughts. Maybe he might try to reconnect with Tyla. She is growing and she may not be ready to forgive him. However, if she is watching, then maybe they can sort things out if he decides to be a hero. Maybe he might stay around with the squad longer to watch over them. This time, he will be the leader by his own choice.
The squad may have suicidal ideas of what they are going to do next, but they just earned their true name. One that has a different meaning than what it looks like on first reading.
The Suicide Squad. [1s]
*As there isn't a montage of showing the aftermath of the beach battle, pretend that you are starting to see the end/mid-credits. The concept and look would be in a similar style to the Roll Call teaser of The Suicide Squad all while a fanmade, alternative rock song plays in the background.*
"Validate"
[Lonely rendition of a mashup of 'Heathens' by Twenty One Pilots and 'Joke's On You' by Charlotte Lawrence in F Minor before it starts to go off key]
[Verse 1]
All my friends have gone mad
From the gas lighting the room
I'm pretty sure she's glad
That this will lead to our doom
And I've been questioning, da-dancing
To the same old record
To give me a break from the
Wait, what's this? Give me a second.
[Pre-Chorus]
Enforced all the laws? You told us to be safe?
When you let out all the toys around for us to play
Keep denying, you're defying the conscience in you
Cause eventually, oh hi there, welcome to my so-called alley
[Chorus]
How will I know that our heaven is a lie?
I don't know, I don't know
I just don't damn know
What's your thought in your mind as your child starts to cry?
I don't know, I don't know
But eventually, I'm informed
That there's a bigger monster
Who wants to be stronger
Use an excuse that we snoozed
To validate their abuse
I know now, we know now
How did I not realize
How unsubtly that you have
Our blood cleaning your highs
[Verse 2/Rap]
Why don't we have a discussion first
Stop there, before you see the worst
Such great power but you avoid the void
But not anymore, let's get to the point
I come from every tragedy
Broken, bats**t, look, there's another scar
Never explain cause it's all the same
You say it matters when I'm your star
But it's a useful sacrifice to send in
Imagine they laugh when my neck's snapping
Keep forgetting that it's upsetting
When you become a pharoah leading
I trade my sanity for insanity
For my survival, mixed with some vanity
Gotta let us know if there's clarity
Before we lose it and choose fantasy as reality
[Chorus]
How will I know that our heaven is a lie?
I don't know, I don't know
I just don't damn know
What's your thought in your mind as your child starts to cry?
I don't know, I don't know
But eventually, I'm informed
That there's a bigger monster
Who wants to be stronger
Use an excuse that we snoozed
To validate their abuse
I know now, we know now
How did I not realize
How unsubtly that you have
Our blood cleaning your highs
[Bridge Breakdown]
Oh, oh, woah
Oh, oh, woah
I want to run, but so do you
Who says that it's not your responsibility?
I'm doing my best, you're not doing your best
So better start fixing
Before our future matches me thinking:
Is there anything to invest?!
[Chorus]
How will I know that our heaven is a lie?
I don't know, I don't know
I just don't damn know
What's your thought in your mind as your child starts to cry?
I don't know, I don't know
But eventually, I'm informed
That there's a bigger monster
Who wants to be stronger
Use an excuse that we snoozed
To validate their abuse
I know now, we know now
How did I not realize
How unsubtly that you have
Our blood cleaning your highs
[Outro]
Gotta clean a little there
And a little there
Gotta clean a little there
And a little there
Is there anything to invest?
When there's many that can't rest?!
Will we all end up for less?!
*Screen turns black and the words 'The Suicide Squad - 15 Soldiers on the Shelf' appear, coated in shades of red, yellow and bluish-purple. Blood splats all over the title before it fades out.*
Task Force X returned to Belle Reve safely and had their bombs removed from their necks. Granted freedom by the American government and a vehicle to drive away, the remaining free members split off for a while to solve personal business. Harley Quinn and Captain Boomerang continue their own solo careers while keeping in touch.
Bloodsport, Ratcatcher II, King Shark and T.D.K came back together as the main members of the renewed Suicide Squad. June Moone proudly offered to be their representation, receptionist and co-director. Thanks to Harley, they found a base where they can stay and plan for their own missions.
Weasel remains in Corto Maltese with Sol Soria. Soon enough, with the funds needed and the support from multiple allies, the island is back in good shape with a new leader. There is hope that the island will finally be freed from the tyrannical iron fist that intimidated them. There is evidence of Project Starfish found in some of the destroyed or thrown-out computers, so they are preparing to release it to public.
Peacemaker was found alive and once discharged, shifted onto another Task Force team. Emilia Harcourt and John Economos joined upon Waller's instructions as an experiment to see how they would fare on their new mission. It proved to be successful, but too successful as the projects of Task Force X were revealed to the public. With her reputation tarnished, Waller now looks to more dependable sources for maintaining the peace, starting with the Justice Society.
Recently, the Suicide Squad heard about Peacemaker's contribution in Project Butterfly. They sent him a message for an offer.
Peacemaker accepted the offer.
Many months later…
Christopher Smith, not decking the Peacemaker costume, parks his brand new car. As he opens the door, Eagly flies right out. Smith watches as his pet happily chirps while soaring through the air. He can't blame him due to the eagle not having out to new places in a while. However, this place might not be a park they can play around in. [2]
The graveyard has been planned to be where he would bury 'Goff'...or whatever the real pronunciation of her name is as the butterfly queen. He nearly thought of placing her body in dirt and set up a small memorial for her, but this could be risky as the authorities are high on alert with finding any butterfly suspects around the world.
But this isn't really why he is here. He is here since Moone sent him a message to come over here. Smith wonders why. While it is a nice place as there isn't a grey cloud to block the sun, it feels rather haunted, even in daylight.
While Eagly flies off to do whatever he wants, Smith makes his way through the gates. Rows of graves line up on both sides, either dirty or brand new. Some of the headstones are stained, but there are a few that appeared to be washed. Being underneath the sunlight makes it feel less gloomy, giving the place a sense of peace for the resting dead.
Peace. That's the word. Smith thinks about how peace could ever remain in Corto Maltese. While the island is safe and they get their justice by revealing Project Starfish to the world when Adebayo exposed Task Force X, it would be far from over for peace to be set to calm people down or help them move on from the attack.
Thinking about it, this makes Smith wonder if he should be restricted to solely his country when it could be possible to negotiate with others for a better way.
At last, he arrives at a lonely spot where there are a couple of colorful headstones. He notices that someone is sitting down on one of them, but he is surprised of how these graves are made.
There are six tombstones with colorful paint all over them. It looks more like someone tried to vandalize, but they must have done good effort in making sure that it looks good alongside making the words visible. Every tombstone has an object resting there to honor those who died.
A pair of Polka-Dot Man's goggles on his tombstone. They are in pieces, but they did try to glue them back together.
A bouquet of red and black roses on Savant's. They look like the flowers Smith saw back at Corto Maltese.
A blade stabbed right in the ground near Mongal's. Surprisingly, there is a small object that looks like a toy of some sort.
Javelin's namesake weapon is resting on his grave. It has grown dull to Harley using it a lot, but she left it there just in case he wants it back.
Blackguard's is an interesting case. On his tombstone are a pair of golden and black guns, positioned like his holsters on his suit.
And the last of all is Rick Flag's.
June Moone is sitting close by, trying to process her speeding thoughts. She absentmindedly touches the soft fabric of the folded yellow shirt he wore that is right next to her. It has been a while ever since she visited Flag's grave.
With a seemingly calm look and closed eyes, she tries to let the world pass by her and maybe be with Flag. But life is not a fairy tale as she doesn't feel his presence around. The dead is resting and away, but she wants to be close to him again.
When she lets herself try to enjoy the green grass and the tree sheltering her, she nearly finds herself unprepared of Smith who is waiting nearby.
She freezes, unable to move.
She sent him a message to visit her, but his answer almost appears ambiguous to her about his reasons why he accepted the invite. Is he here to finish her off? That sounds ridiculous. He just saved the whole world and didn't sacrifice anyone on his team.
But he killed Flag. That hasn't passed Moone's mind.
She stands up, in a pose of getting to run. Smith notices this. His body seems to relax a little, showing that he is not a threat. Taking a step forward, it is more like just shuffling his feet instead of walking.
When she sees a pot of sunflowers in his hands, Moone decides to let him come. She moves to the side, watching Smith coming towards Flag's tombstone. Kneeling down, he places the pot onto the grave. It drops to its left. Awkwardly, he picks them up, trying to get the yellow flowers to stand up properly.
With the flowers in position for Flag, Smith silently stands up, next to the grieving Moone.
It is awfully quiet for the two of them. They are paying their respects for the fallen colonel, but something tells that it is not just that as the reason why they are quiet.
Eventually, Moone chooses to break the silence.
"I've heard that you stopped these 'butterflies' from taking over the world," she said.
"More like they thought they were doing the right thing of protecting our world," muttered Smith.
"...Waller's daughter revealed it all, but given that their leader tried to inform you of what they were doing, why did you choose not to help them?"
Smith swallows. He doesn't really want to remember the memories he looked back on when Goff pleaded for him to help her and the other butterflies. For too long, he threw himself in trying to maintain peace of the country to win his father's respect. A vow to ensure that not only true peace could come, but he could find peace of his own from his brother's death. That guilt and pressure never went along until they start to loosen recently.
"If I did," he said. "Then that would hurt Adebayo and the others."
Moone glances at him, surprised. "That long you spent with them?"
Smith shrugs, smiling a little. "Probably for the better. Better than being sent out on a more urgent mission."
A question comes to Moone's mind. "Chris…when you were fighting with Rick…what were his last words?"
Smith flinches, looking away. Moone takes a step away, giving him some space. Judging by how lost he appears, he doesn't want to talk about it. He doesn't look like he is trying to find some excuse to gloss over it.
"'Peacemaker, what a joke'," answered Smith, looking down.
This bites the dust for him. Moone can see it since the man next to her isn't acting like how vicious and determined he was before. Since he fought against the man who was trying to do the good thing, this brought him into conflict on whether his way of maintaining peace was necessary. She heard that his father was involved in how he turned out to be which cut deeper to Smith's own ways of making the right choice as the self-proclaimed superhero.
She stops for a moment to wonder if Smith is genuinely regretful of his actions. This reminds her back to Waller. While she hadn't seen her in a long time, Waller eventually tends to shrug off deaths easily. As long as she achieved what she wants in her twisted ways of maintaining peace or at least in the States.
Moone still feels butterflies in her stomach, but she needs to move on from her grief. She cannot hold a grudge against Smith for long, but she shouldn't forgive him immediately since a lot needs to be done. If what she hears is indeed true, they all turned out to be victims, flawed enough to get caught up in their own gaslighting. It would only take too long until they see what went wrong.
"I-I know that I can't say sorry back for this," said Smith. "But…is there a way I can make up to you all?"
Moone straightens herself up, ready to move forward. "I can only ask if you will be able to help out the Suicide Squad whenever you can. I-I can't forgive you for what you done, but…Flag would have wanted the best for all of us. Your friend just started that, so…would it be alright if you can help ensuring it never stops right at Waller's demise?"
Smith would accept anyway, but the question lies on if he will try carrying on what Flag would have wanted to do. He is still connected with ARGUS through the recovering Harcourt, but it is now up to him to figure out what he actually wants to be.
While his father might continue to haunt him, Smith is free to do what is best for him instead of being underneath someone's shadow. Maybe by making amends to his first squad might help him find peace. Even if they wouldn't forgive him, at least he could close the book of his initial animosity towards them.
"I will then," said Smith. "I'll try." [2s]
Moone nods, finally smiling. She just hopes that Smith won't relapse into murderous habits.
"Does…anyone knows that I'm still alive?" asked Smith.
Moone chuckles a little. "You should have seen the looks on their faces. I was surprised about it. I think DuBois swore for at least 3 hours when he saw your face on the news."
"Fitting."
"King Shark is…well, stoned? I don't know how to say it since he didn't really have a strong connection with you. Cazo was as nervous as I was, though she said that she'll only trust you unless you give her a reason not to. Same goes for Harley, but she's busy. T.D.K is surprised and thought that you were Superman."
"What? Obviously, I'm not!" said Smith.
"Your red and blue colors said otherwise."
"But the red colors are also on the front fully! Not the back. I can't even wear a cape without stepping on it."
"Perhaps," teased Moone. "And oh, Boomerang thought of having a real match with you. I think he's frosty."
"He must be desperate as well," added in Smith.
Moone wonders what that meant, but when she analyzes Smith's physical build…and his crotch, she understood immediately.
"That reminds me of something," she said, pulling out her phone. "Bloodsport suggested me to give you this target. He said that he thought you would be a perfect fit with this guy. Maybe you might be able to work with him on a mystery we just encountered."
Smith's eyes widen when he sees the photo on the phone. A muscular guy wearing a full black suit with a lightning bolt printed on his chest, a tattered cape around his neck and a bald head. This was taken…a few days ago.
"He kind of looks like a great hunky piece of meat, don't you think?" asked Moone jokingly.
He doesn't know how to respond to that, but boy, it looks like he may have some competition in this universe.
AN: You didn't expect that I know a little about the informed rivalry between Dwayne Johnson and John Cena? Who bets on a movie showing Black Adam and Peacemaker meeting each other? Natch, it's to reference the upcoming 'Black Adam' movie. It's already out today (or at least in other countries). Reviews don't look good so far, but let's have our fingers crossed that the DCEU can improve...
And the entire scene of Peacemaker visiting June Moone at a graveyard is inspired by the post-credit scene from Black Widow.
Phew! And that's it! We've reached the final chapter of this story! You already know; Captain Boomerang gets to live another day, thanks to you fans. T.D.K's ambiguous fate is unambiguous here where he lives for another day. And oh, Weasel gets to live in civilization as well. With the survivor's new life not explained yet, I thought that they might continue being a team together without anyone controlling them to help people.
I think it should be fair to have a burial for those who died. I imagine that they set up graves for them alongside leaving behind gifts. Peacemaker visiting would be after the events of his show where he meets up with Moone. To say that it's gonna be a shaky start for them is an understatement. There would still be a lot for Peacemaker to prove to his former squad that he changed, but that is another story for next time.
The song 'Validate' is a bit of a lyrical concept of a song based on the film, attempting to capture the problem with those high in power and doing what they believe is the right thing for those 'under their care'. To say how it would be like, I imagine it to be alternative rock, rap rock and trap rock (with elements of nu metal in the instrumental and from the screaming parts in bold). Inspirations for it would be 'Wonderland' by AleXa (I even thought it might have a similar key tone and bpm to it), 'Parents' by yungblud and a few songs by grandson.
If anyone wants to use these lyrics and making it into an actual song people can listen to, hit me and we can discuss a bit on its production. :3 But seriously, don't steal them.
I like to take a moment to thank those who have joined along this new adventure! Thank you to Agent2187, ArchivistIssac, Baneofevil44, Essix789, HORR0R, Marshmallow lover 246, Taqhion, Tech-Star, The Raven of Never-Nevermore, boss kaiju, darkraizerGx1, doggy bye, henry 23, jmknz777, kade32, lazyshiitake, yvetal1993, 1124eddie, Bromega2477, Dylan lobos, HyenaMan, inthecoil and marklagos1978 for following this story. Special thanks to Brokmega2477 for your comments and niicts for the special reviews! Couldn't have finished it without all your support!
Looking back here, it has been a hell of a ride. It's not exactly a perfect rewrite; I kind of wish that I didn't write too much (that leads to a pain in my arse due to needing to be consistent with each character's thoughts) and use more black comedy as most of the squad members' deaths are more tragic. I kind of relied too much on my own interpretations on a psychological level.
And of course, it's a weird pattern of posting chapters at different times since I took the option of posting them once I finish writing them. This is in the same way with rewriting Trolls World Tour, but The Suicide Squad is more serious and complex. At least it didn't take more two years to finish this story!
However, making a few changes with an alternative path and new scenes allow to explore Team 1 before they die and also sharpens the bond in Team 2. Also exploring their powers and connecting a little to their comic book origins. It's probably one of the most fun stories I've ever written and even taught me something as well!
I'm not sure if I'll be touching back on the DCEU, but I'm thinking of doing a rewrite on Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey. Despite its significant flaws, it feels so much fun! I plan on trying to readjust the plot and fix some problems; more specifically the dynamic between Harley and Black Canary (hope her solo film survives), the more faithful connections of Cassandra to her comic book counterpart and Huntress' character arc. It might not be easy to fix all, but I'll give it a try in the future. But the question lies in which category I should put it in. There are two potential comic book categories; 'Birds of Prey' or 'DC Superheroes'. Which category should I put it in? I'm a little greedy since I want to find a category that would catch more attention. If there is another category I can use for a Birds of Prey movie rewrite, let me know ASAP.
What do you think of this epilogue? What do you think of the whole story? How did I handle each main character on the squad? Think I sold the themes well? I would need advice if there is room for improvement. Let me know in your review, but you don't need to make it too long. Only if you can. Please don't be nervous in revealing all your thoughts since they might be helpful and let me know how I did so far for the entire rewrite. No flames however or you're out. And as always, follow or favorite if you enjoyed the entire ride.
OK, what's left? If hungry for more from me, then check through what I have on my profile page. Current stories I'm trying to work on include 'Five Nights at Freddy's - Security Breach, Shades Up' (if you're feeling musical and want a nice slice of horror), 'The Bad Guys in the Bad Purge' (if you're feeling like you hate bad slasher horror movies) and 'as hard as an obsidian rock' (if you're feeling like you're back in your 2017 Sonic phase).
Until next time, stay safe, be nice, trust your friends, don't buy guns, go out to slaughter a couple of starfishes, have an epic battle on the beach, don't get too attached to the Justice Society...and keep on rocking!
Catch you later!
- Cheah
