An: Hey gang, I'm back at it again. This chapter will have a major focus on, like the title says. The fallout of the Watchtower siege. I fear the Phantom Thieves might not even make an appearance. But like always, I'll make sure to keep it interesting. Got a lot of setup to do for the next few arcs. I hope you guys enjoy it as much as I do writing it!

FEEDBACK:

Gamelover41592: ;3

Felipe1402XZA: Yeppers.

OpKingDimond: Thx for the help friend.

Smokernaruto: Hmm. I personally disagree about Lavenza being able to defeat every member of the League. Especially all at once. Though an argument could be made she was a little too underpowered compared to Martian Manhunter and the fight they had.

I did however already say that Sataneal couldn't beat Bat-mite. This is due to the fact he gains power due to the amount of people believing in the Phantom Thieves at the end of vanilla P5. No one on the planet really believes in them at this point, thus he is unable to truly beat Bat-mite. And even that is pushing it as Joker too has to awaken his fourth persona to be able to beat Bat-mite.

Savae: Joker will have entities given to him more and more as the fic goes on. Eventually he'll have them but not yet.

Faightan Gaims: Thanks man, appreciate that. Also yeah a lot of League members will have their opinions challenged, so look out for that.

Justiceforall208: Yeah I know about the Presence, while planning this story out I had to basically look up all the gods that were in the DC universe. I won't spoil anything but I have considered using the Presence for something or another.

Zack: Honestly I don't like limiting myself to one pairing in any fiction. I'm pretty open to any ship that comes at me, for P5 on the first playthrough I liked Takemi a lot...so I guess I'll go with that. I'll throw in Haru for a close second.

And yeah I guess I am good as set up for Slade's appearance. Sadly with everything else it might take a while for him to show though.

Guest: Thanks for your support, sorry about Mishima though.

Tenma Kirin: No worries, I guess I should apologize for being so silent in chapters though. I won't give excuses or anything, just a combo of life and burnout from the Watchtower arc. So I took a bit of a break. I'll try to at least get one or two chapters out a month if I'm able. I want to get to Clayface by October, so I'm definitely not abandoning this fic or anything.

No_seven: Thanks for the support. Always loved long in depth comments like this, makes me feel special.

On grammar, me and Tanuki will take your words at heart. I do have an always forward mindset on that sort of thing, we might go back and fix it in post, but the ship must sail as they say.

On character, I'll give you that one. Both Haru and Sumire need more time to shine. On discord someone pointed out Violet hasn't won once and it made me feel guilty, so definitely going to work on that. Alfred was a rough punch to the face, but yeah he really is barely in this. I can't do it this chapter, but I'll work to make him better.

Power scaling is complicated. As I did give Batman a book of magic, I haven't touched even a little on that in terms of battle. While nerfed is not what I would call it, the PTs definitely should kick the asses of the Bat-family more on the basis of power alone. But remember Bats comes prepared and plans for future combat. Also I figured saying every spell name would be nonsense to a novice in that kind of thing. Because I definitely don't know every spell at the top of my head, I figured I'd give the audience some leeway at times.

But I'll work more on imagery on characters and environment for attacks.

Thank you for the kind words on plot and pacing, as that's definitely where I prioritize a lot of effort. And thanks for the constructive criticism.

Enjoy~!

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May 31st, Early Morning

Washington D.C., Hall of Justice

Clear Skies.

Reporters clamored to the podium, flashing lights overtook the entire crowd. Security held them back as the assault of questions increased the moment Superman walked out and cleared his throat.

A simple raise of his hand quieted the crowd. A look of professionalism and calm masked the inner conflict the hero was going through. Despite his look of control and order, he never felt less so in years. He only had minutes after the transport back to Earth to prepare a statement. Anything more would stoke the riots demanding answers from the League.

"As head Founder of the Justice League, I have prepared a number of statements regarding the disturbance that was yesterday's broadcast. Rest assured, I have the answers you desire, no...the answers you deserve." Superman corrected himself.

Inside the hall, many League members were in the medical facilities. Professionals rushed to and fro to attend to each of the injured. Batman was left alone, refusing any painkillers, any help whatsoever. He gritted his teeth and swallowed the pain, because he wanted to be awake for this.

He hasn't said a word since the Thieves escaped. Everything that could have gone wrong did go wrong last night. And with that, everyone in the League, the founders especially, failed. Batman, through the pain, clenched his fists as he watched Clark on the television try to calm the masses.

"First, GCPD has confirmed that every crew member and diplomat that was onboard the Watchtower during the attack has been confirmed to be found in that warehouse. On behalf of everyone in the League, I apologize to the families who worried for their safety, but commend the men and women who fought for the safety of the citizens on board." Superman said.

" They barely even fought. Some even ran...cowards that they are." Batman narrowed his eyes.

"Second, for the sake of transparency, I will confirm, yes. We were indeed overrun by a group known as the Phantom Thieves. Their methods were novel and had clear guidance by defecting members of the Teen Titans. But their motive was clear, as was their broadcast. The only person who is still missing is Wonder Woman. Which we assume is hiding out with the group." Superman said.

Reporters bursted into questioning the man. The chorus of demanding reporters were silenced by Superman relenting and picking out one.

"Vicki Vale, Gotham News, are you saying the broadcast was factual? That you failed the world at large? What did they mean by that?" Vickie asked.

"The Founders all met on Wonder Woman's request yesterday. She came with intel on the attackers last night. A Titan, Donna Troy, was tasked with learning their motives and methods. From such information, Wonder Woman argued we should help them, not arrest them. We-"

The clamoring got even worse, mostly from those who were angered by the attackers getting away.

"Star City Times, what do you mean?! This group must be arrested, they are a threat to national and international security! They are terrorists! Why would Wonder Woman want to aid them?!"

"Please, everyone. The group in question has a very complex motive for what they do. The file itself shall be shared publicly after every government sees it and considers what the file contains. At this time however, I can not go into detail." Superman reluctantly said.

"Lois Lane, Daily Planet. I think I speak for all of us, when I say the people deserve to know now!"

Superman met eyes with his angry wife, she was wearing an air of smugness under the scowl. One that said, 'I told you so'.

"Miss. Lane, I agree with you, but I simply cannot at this time, it is out of my hands." Superman answered.

"What a load! You just flat out admitted to arresting Wonder Woman without so much of a word. Why was she arrested?! Why are Titans defecting to the side of these newcomers?! TELL US THE TRUTH!" Another reporter screamed, yells overtaking the stage once again.

"Everyone, please! I understand your anger, but the fact of the matter is the Phantom Thieves are a controversial topic. Even more so now. Yesterday we came to the decision of arresting them for questioning and to answer for their crimes. Wonder Woman and some of the Titans disagreed strongly, the classified intel being the main reasoning. As such Wonder Woman said she aligned herself with the Thieves. She refused to give up their location and as such was...imprisoned." Superman sighed.

Screams of anger and confusion took over once more.

"Turn it off." Batman had heard enough. A nurse did as instructed.

"Finally talkin' huh?" Huntress scoffed as she used clutches to limp her way to him.

"Not now, Helena." Bruce growled.

"I get the Feds want to sniff every morsel of that file before the public sees it. But why the hell can't I, a full-fledged member of the League see it?!" she yelled at him.

Batman glared at her.

"You're being blocked from seeing it?" Batman asked.

"Everyone is! You don't think other members of the- wait...that wasn't you?" She asked.

"They're using this to gain control of us. Not surprising." Batman huffed.

"What really happened up there, Bruce? Why are these kids scaring everyone to high hell?" Huntress asked.

"They should scare you. They single handedly took out our most fortified base." Bruce retorted.

"But why? How? I don't-"

"Everything about that is in the file. The file they're refusing to show you. The army must be just as worried as I am. But I can't let them take this too far." Bruce grunted as he tried to get up.

"Easy, easy...As much as I hate you right now, you're still hurt." Helena tried to keep him down.

"I did what was necessary." Batman growled.

"I've heard about Dick. The others. Was all that necessary?" Helena scowled.

"He made his choice. They all did." Bruce growled.

"And threatening arrest unless they submit is a choice? Be serious Bruce, you know Dick hates it when you do shit like that." She chided.

Hawkgirl interrupted the argument by walking up to Batman's bed.

"Finally cool off enough to actually speak? Good. Security is barely holding the civilians back. Despite Supes' speech, there are still rioters out there. And we're down pretty bad on people, while at the same time seeing new faces." Hawkgirl looked at the unconscious Blue Beetle.

"Who is he?" Batman asked.

"No idea. Booster Gold was quick to bolt once he saw him though. Speaking of, the prick wants to talk to you." Hawkgirl mentioned.

"I think everyone wants to give you a piece of their mind right now!" Power Girl hissed from across the room.

"Don't mind her. She's just mad about not knowing what the hell is going on." Huntress huffed.

"And why aren't you telling her?" Batman asked Hawkgirl.

"Didn't have time, plus the suits barged in demanding answers. If we wanted to avoid war from all nations we had to give them the files. Lucky us it was one of the few not hacked." Hawkgirl explained.

"It's called copies, Shayera." Bruce growled.

"It's called, I was too busy covering your ass on other shit." Hawkgirl snarked.

"So the government now has-"

"No, they didn't take full control of the place Bats. But unless you want us all to be on our own against the mob outside, we're gonna have to play ball. Security can only do so much without the army's support." Hawkgirl explained.

Suddenly a giant white portal opened, Dr. Fate stepping out of it furious.

"Where have you been?" Hawkgirl asked.

"I would have single handedly taken the Thieves into custody, but the fools of angels blocked me out. A whole two realms out of reach. Not for long...I assure you." Dr. Fate hissed.

"They're getting bolder. They can't keep hiding from us." Batman gritted out.

"In case you haven't noticed, their numbers are pretty up there. A frontal assault would practically be suicide." Huntress mentioned.

"A frontal assault isn't what I had in mind." Fate said.

"I'm listening." Batman said.

"I need time. Constantine deduced the Phantoms work in the dreamscape. The House of Mystery might just have the proper tools I need to cut them off from their work." Fate said.

"Raven had the possession of the place last. We all know what side she chose." Batman said.

Fate presented the keys for all to see.

"Possession is given, not assigned. The house was last possessed by Zatanna, who assigned no one before her death." Fate said.

"Then it falls into Constatine's hands. He was her next of kin and past owner of the house. IT should call out to him for his care." Batman said.

"Then I will prove myself better than he to care for it." Dr. Fate grounded out.

"Will that work?" Huntress asked.

"It has too! Unless you have other leads to follow." Fate hissed.

"Plenty." Batman rose up, groaning in pain.

"Oh? Do tell." Fate crossed his arms.

"The Thieves, whether they like it or not, are getting bigger. With Diana with them, it's only a matter of time before the rest of the Amazon race bows to them as new messiahs. Joker can hide in Hell or Heaven all he wants. But the Amazon strongholds, while hard to find, are still on Earth. We block them from him, do anything we can to bring them down." Batman said.

"That will only slow them. We must bring them to their knees." Fate growled.

"Outside of that, they still must have some hideout in Gotham. Somewhere they can easily flee to, a place where they come in and out of the other places. Not to mention, the other multiple hideouts they could have for resources." Batman said.

"You've had no luck deducing that so far, what makes it different now?" Fate asked.

"While the remaining Titans will have to pull out, I'll bring in others to conduct the search. People outside of our usual circles." Batman said.

"Bruce, the Titans won't just run cause you told them to. They have as much at stake as you do with all of this. Friends that they want to convince to come back!" Helena yelled.

"They're all compromised, Helena. Plus there is the matter of the Thieves listening in on us through them. I have discreet channels, but none regarding the Titans that Dick doesn't know about." Bruce said.

"They deserve to fight in this! You can't just-"

"No. It's a conflict of interest. They wouldn't be able to do what is needed to be done." Bruce grounded out.

"AND WHAT EXACTLY IS THAT?! Are you really gonna lock up Dick, Wally, everyone up like thugs. Like everything we've been through hasn't happened?!" Helena spat.

"If it comes to it. Yes." Batman said darkly.

"I can't believe you! What is wrong with you, Bruce?! They wouldn't go through all of this- Dick wouldn't go through all of this unless there was something valid to stand for!" Helena yelled.

"You know not what you speak, child. These Thieves must be stopped, for everyone's safety, including theirs. We have little time to debate, the demon could strike at any moment!" Fate hissed.

"The demon? what are you-"

"MOVE ASIDE!" Fate yelled, shoving her away from Bruce.

"What are you doing?" Bruce demanded.

"I cannot wait for your bones to heal naturally, Dark Knight. Be warned this will hurt." Fate performed a complex healing spell on Bruce.

Bruce cried out in pain as his bones and wounds quickly healed. The pain was immense as the spell prioritized speed over numbing the pain. But the pain subsided, after feeling like his bone's broke again, Batman regained proper movement in his arms.

"Don't do that again." Batman growled, the pain igniting his anger. He moved to get up and brushed past Helena.

"We have a lot of work to do." Batman said. Before he and Fate could leave however, Power Girl stomped in front of them, blocking the exit.

"Oh, hell no! Not happening! You all gotta tell us what the hell these kids are made of! We all deserve to know about this!" Power Girl hissed.

"We don't have time, we-"

"Make the fucking time then…" Power Girl growled, interrupting Dr. Fate.

Batman sighed, he figured something like this would happen. They deserved to know, but he could not waste the time retreading this pointless debate. But from the look of the angry wounded League members around him, he didn't have much of a choice.

"Fine. A proper intel briefing on the enemy to the rest of the league. No longer than an hour, if that." Batman narrowed his eyes.

"These failures don't deserve to know. Troops should fall in line to those who give the orders. And many of these "allies" failed to even do that." The general growled.

Bruce pushed the voice down. Something was off if no one else had the file. The government was trying to keep things quiet and he wouldn't allow Waller to get the upper hand in her little crusade against the League.

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J'onn watched Batman walk off. The alien sighed, as much as Batman's inner conflict angered him, he must make sure he does a few things before… he left.

He's finally decided, once he made sure everyone was properly treated for their wounds, he would say his farewells.

He can't in good faith allow the whole world to hunt these kids like animals. He knew Batman wouldn't listen to his words and he definitely knew whoever in the US government wouldn't listen either.

Despite his faith in humanity, he knew some were more stubborn than others.

"Been a while since you've looked that tense J'onn." Green Lantern coughed in pain.

"Apologies. Your ribs are greatly fractured, I'd advise a lot of bedrest and-"

"You saw something in one of their minds, didn't you? Did you see him? The demon behind all this?" Lantern asked.

"...No…" J'onn answered honestly.

"*sigh* It's never that easy is it?" Lantern coughed.

"Be still friend, the surgeon is on his way." J'onn tried to comfort, putting his hand on his shoulder.

"Why does this all have to be so complicated? Despite everything,even now, I think we all made the wrong call here. Every step we took to solve this problem only made it ten times worse." Lantern shook his head in a mix of confusion and guilt.

J'onn stayed silent, but that was agreement enough to what Lantern was saying.

"Now we have the whole world breathing down our necks. But I still can't find it in me to be angry at them. It only made me...scared of the guy who's at the head of all this. And more sorry for the poor bastards who got mixed up with them."

"Why are you telling me all this John?" Manhunter asked.

"Cause I've seen the look Shay's been having the past few hours. She doesn't want to hear sympathy or fear from anyone. She only wants to take them all down. And I can't find it in me to blame her for it either." John admitted.

"...We've all made poor decisions in this past day. I think the only solution is to do better in the face of our failures." J'onn said calmly.

"I don't know what that would be anymore…" Lantern said gravely.

J'onn took his hand off shoulder and nodded.

"I do. But I would never force a decision upon anyone. You saw right through me, friend. Deduced what was troubling me so...And all I ask you, is to consider if what is happening here is true justice, true heroism, and when you find that answer...You'll know what to do." J'onn said solemnly.

As the alien walked away, Green Lantern watched him from his makeshift hospital bed. John sighed and looked at the ceiling. He knew that discussion was all but a goodbye from the Martian. Which left him to only consider the words.

"True heroism, huh?"

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Barry splashed water into his face as he stood in the bathroom. He clutched the sink so hard that his knuckles turned white.

Everything was crumbling around him. His friends were fighting each other, his sister and nephew all but disowned him, how couldn't it be Thawne behind all of this? It has to be, unless, he truly brought all of this on himself….

" You threw him to the wolves the moment he made a controversial choice." Diana's voice echoed.

"Wally… I didn't think you would…*sigh* I really messed everything up." Flash knelt over in shame.

After all he promises to never run from his problems, he goes and does it again. In his desperation he just couldn't believe he would ruin his family in so little time. There had to be an out, an easy explanation for everything going so wrong…

But there wasn't, he just made a bad decision. One of the worst he ever made.

" Just a thought. But why would you support such a man, when everyone in your life says it's wrong?" Joker's words echoed in his mind.

"I have to make it right. For Wally, for the other Titans...For the Phantom Thieves." Barry declared with a newfound resolve.

Barry left the bathroom and pulled out a pen and paper. He paused for a second to consider what he was about to do. But his conscious won out in the end. He quickly scribbled down a letter to the League.

He didn't want a fight, he didn't want to see their reactions, and he especially didn't want any tearful goodbyes. He couldn't handle them, not when he was so conflicted about this.

He left the paper on the main meeting table, and made his way to find his nephew.

Even if Batman hunted him down like a criminal too, Barry promised to protect his nephew and his friends.

He couldn't live with himself if he didn't try and mend the wounds he himself gave.

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Within the hour, Batman arranged the meeting Power Girl practically demanded. Everyone that could join did. A fog of despair and tension hung over the room. The tension could be cut with a knife.

"Thank you for all coming. I'm sure you all have questions regarding the attack last night. Especially pertaining to the attacking group. I don't have much time to spare, but what I do have is updated files containing everything about them we knew and learned." Batman said.

"Didn't have time to spare to show this before either." Captain Atom huffed.

"I think I speak for all of us when I say this group should be considered a Priority A at least." Hawkgirl growled.

"Agreed." Firestorm added.

Shazam stayed silent as he read the file. He...He couldn't believe this.

"Is...this can't be true." Shazam denied.

"Shazam don't let your empathy get the-"

"THIS IS WHAT YOU ARRESTED WONDER WOMAN FOR?! I thought she was brainwashed, or taken hostage! But all of THIS?! You guys rather lock them up then try to help?!" Shazam had to hold back tears.

"Watch yourself, Shazam. You wouldn't understand the complexity of this issue." Dr Fate chided.

"I understand just fine! Of course they attacked us, you all left them for dead!" Shazam threw the file onto the ground.

"It's the only option, child, we have no time to dawdle. These children might have tragic pasts and current strife. That does not excuse the fear and chaos they've sown into the world at large with their attack! Do not forget assassins, demons, and Trigon himself sides with them! They must be stopped before their ruler takes us all out with those forces." Dr Fate hissed.

"They also have some of the Titans." Black Canary retorted.

"They made their choice." Batman gritted out.

"Oh they made a choice alright. Twenty four hours or they are be imprisoned too? Sounds real fair to me." Green Arrow sarcastically said.

"You both didn't have a problem with it at the time." Hawkgirl hissed.

"That was before I had to treat the kids I've trained like criminals. All for a disagreement, I'm honestly seeing more and more merit in! What exactly comes after all of this?! If you both think we can just defeat this big evil, let me remind you the lackeys totally took us to task!" Canary yelled.

"A surprise attack. One that won't happen again." Dr. Fate practically growled.

"Great plan Doctor. Care to elaborate beyond the vaguest shit I've ever heard?" Power Girl huffed.

"They'll go back to Gotham. At the very least they have to be hiding something in the city. And I'll use everything at my disposal to catch them." Batman declared.

"Oh? So when do we all charge in and take them to task?" Power Girl challenged.

"No metas. Not now, not ever." Batman growled.

"I'm getting sick and tired of your rules Batman! We have the means to end this all now! To get the world government and the public to side with us again! And you won't let that happen because why?!" Hawkgirl roared.

"Because everyone left in Gotham is still at play. I won't let my rouges become even more unhinged in the necessity to adapt. Joker already must be planning something big in retaliation. I won't let him kill anyone else." Batman hissed.

"THEN LET US HELP YOU, DUMBASS!" Hawkgirl screamed.

"I've let you help. And look where that got us." Batman growled.

The entire room went dead silent at that.

"You're angry about me trying to think long term? Don't be a fool. With all of the Phantom Thieves' actions, I know things will only get worse in Gotham. But I also know that the government is breathing down all of our necks. The moment the League rushes in and cuffs them, is the moment the US government demands them for questioning. You really want to see how that will go? See what they would do to them for answers?" Batman pressed.

Hawkgirl clenched her fists so hard that it drew blood.

"That's a real roundabout way of saying 'stay off my turf.'" Power Girl glared.

"Excuse me?" Batman glared.

"I think despite it all, you're still too stubborn to actually change, to adapt in any real way. Plus, you don't want us questioning your methods for when you go up against the Titans. For when you have to beat family to a pulp for answers. That's why you don't want the other Titans to go up against them. Why are you sending them home?" Power Girl hissed.

"You're doing what?" Cyborg hissed, joining in on the discussion.

"They are compromised, the only option is to retreat Cyborg." Batman said.

"Bullshit. They have just as much on the table as you do. They are staying." Cyborg grounded out.

"Jump City needs them, Cyborg. I won't let that city crumble just so-"

"They're staying, and I'm going with them. Or I walk." Cyborg hissed.

Batman narrowed his eyes.

"Is that supposed to be a threat?"

"I'm bringing those dumbasses home. We're gonna work it all out like adults. Now, they're staying or I'll fucking help them stay. With or without you I'm bringing the Titans back." Cyborg growled.

"They made their bed, they have to lie in it." Batman gritted his teeth.

"No, they're gonna wake the hell up and see reality." Cyborg stood his ground.

"And how are you going to do that, child?" Dr. Fate scoffed.

"We're gonna prove those bastards are nothing. Prove them for the liars and scum they are." Cyborg stomped his foot.

"What exactly have they lied about, Cyborg?" Batman pressed.

"They're using their sob story as bait. Using empathy and their cause to pull in saps. Saps like my brothers and sisters. I won't fucking let them get away with that. Let them stay, let us help you. Or I'll do it myself." Cyborg demanded.

"Enough. Both of you." Superman huffed as he finally walked in.

"Superman, is it all true? Did you really-" Shazam was interrupted.

"It's true Billy, all of it. But I'm going to make it right. I'm going to fix this mess we made for ourselves." Superman declared.

"What exactly would that be, Clark?" Batman narrowed his eyes.

"The Titans stay. Cyborg, report to the others as soon as possible." Superman ordered.

Cyborg was silent but nodded, walking off satisfied.

"What is this? Gotham is my jurisdiction, and I won't have you-"

"Batman, may I talk to you in private please?" Superman asked politely.

"No. If you think I'll just sit back and let you-"

"Now." Superman whispered, putting a hand on the man's shoulder.

Batman gritted his teeth in fury. Clark doesn't just demand like this, it must be important. It'd better be.

"You all have the file, do with it what you will. But if I see any of you set foot in my city with express permission, I will not hesitate." Batman declared.

"Neither will the military when they roll in." Hawkgirl scowled, but left it at that when Superman guided Batman into a private room.

The whole League entered a tense silence, all questioning either the choices they've made, or the choices made for them.

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Superman gently closed the door, leaving the tense atmosphere Batman made with his declarations. Only for an emotionally combative atmosphere to be quickly made by Batman's intense glare at Superman.

"What is this about? I have to get back to Gotham, so make it fast." Batman growled.

"Call it an intervention. You have to stop this for all of our sakes." Superman said calmly.

"Stop what Clark? Maintaining the situation as best I can despite everything last night doing it's best to thwart that, including you?" Batman growled out of hostility.

"The League is enough at odds with each other without you making things worse. I thought I made it clear I wasn't going to kill anyone, especially kids. I thought you of all people would respect that." Superman retorted calmly.

"You went easy on them. It would have been over in an instant if you wanted it to. The same could be said of Barry. Where is he anyway?" Batman demanded answers.

"I don't know." Superman said solemnly.

"You don't know?! We're already down a founder, know you're telling me he's-"

"I didn't say he was missing Bruce. I just don't know where he is. Maybe this will help answer your question." Clark handed Bruce a letter.

Bruce read it over and scowled deeply.

"That...That bastard. I never thought I'd see the day." Bruce stared at the letter in contempt.

"From the talk I'm hearing out there, I'm surprised more aren't handing in resignations. J'onn left with him. This has to stop Bruce. Your demands are becoming more and more of those of a tyrant. This group is supposed to be run like a democracy. Everyone gets a vote. And the head founder gets the final say if things get too split. You are not the head, and even if you were, you'd be pushing that power too far." Superman sighed.

"It is MY jurisdiction, Clark. I've made my position clear at the start of this whole thing. Gotham, and the rogues within it are mine to deal with and mine alone. Unless I say otherwise, no one is to publicly aid in the breaking down of any enemy." Bruce stood his ground.

"And one of your Rouges just stormed the Watchtower, and took several of our allies to their side. What does that tell you about how you're handling this situation?" Clark pressed.

"I was handling it just fine before Diana stabbed me in the back. I'm getting more and more disappointments recently. I call you in desperation, and you gawked at the Phantom Thieves like a fish out of water. You couldn't take them out because your emotions got in the way." Bruce fired back..

"Call it whatever you like. When both my cousin and mother are screaming in my ear demanding I do something about this, I'm going to take their advice to heart." Clark stated.

"You're cousin is the reason why they got away-"

"Don't you dare do that, Bruce. The girl was confused, worried, but most of all hurt. I had to look her in the eyes and tell her the broadcast she saw on Earth was true. Here come these Phantom Thieves challenging us, calling us hypocrites and failures. And I can't bring myself to disagree." Clark grounded out.

"What….?" Batman stopped in his tracks..

"You heard me. The foundation of a good hero is the ability to self reflect and say he made the wrong call. I think...I know we made the wrong call here Bruce. We should have at least tried to do it Diana's way. Now look at us, losing members left and right. This has to end, we have to do the right thing." Clark said firmly.

"If you think you can fly in to Gotham, and take them in you'll-"

"You're not listening to me. I'm simply suggesting having someone be assigned to them outside of your inner circle. The Phantom Thieves need a different approach than going in and arresting them. They've gained too many numbers, too much infamy, but more importantly...they have motives beyond the surface of destroying you." Clark explained.

"The motives beyond the surface hardly matter when they're no more than puppets on strings." Bruce declared.

"And it's with that thinking we won't be able to understand why so many of our allies chose to see their perspective. Think Bruce, in your stubbornness have you neglected the necessity to gather every bit of intel possible? In your anger have you stopped viewing these children as hostages? Or are you pushing fact down because you want petty vengeance for what they did last night?" Superman challenged.

"Don't make assumptions on my thinking. Intel is important, yes, but the intel you're trying to get is useless to the main objective. What we need is any information on the head demon, something I hardly think will come up in debate on the Phantom's morality and tragedy." Batman rationalized.

"But it doesn't stop there, does it Bruce? It continues on to the reason so many flipped. I think we all rushed to call the Thieves terrorists, when in reality they're more of an anti-hero group with big ambitions. We rushed to force the Titans back, and in doing so pushed them further away. We want them back home, don't we? And we want to see how we could go about that."

"I've done everything I could to solve this with diplomacy, Clark I-"

"To be frank, old friend, diplomacy was never your strong suit. Your diplomacy contains more of fear tactics and forcing out intel than actual discussion. I think a more gentle approach is appropriate here. You and I both know we'll need every hand we can get for when the demon actually strikes."

"I'm not letting you fly into Gotham, Clark."

"*Sigh* I was assigned to report on the Thieves even before the broadcast, Bruce. I think Perry will practically push me into the plane to get a scoop on this. I never said I'd come in with the cape, I am capable of subtlety."

"And Metropolis?"

"I believe Steel can handle what little occurs on the streets, Bruce. We both know Gotham will become even more of a crime hotspot in the coming months. IF the government can't take them out, they'll try to hire more...morally corrupt people to try."

Bruce was silent for a long time. His mind whirling in an inner battle as he stared Clark down.

"He's too soft. He failed to stop them then, he'll fail to stop them now." The general within Bruce's head grumbled.

" We need numbers. If a mediator could sway them to aid in the defeat of the demon then-" Bruce fought the voice inside.

" FOOL! They did all of this without the demon's sway! How far would they go with it?!"

" But there is the matter of loyalty. When the battle comes, could it be possible for them to fight with us?"

"Where is your honor? Their kin is filled with every sin imaginable, they can't be trusted. Numbers mean little when they can't be controlled."

" We may not have a say in honor when the demon shows it's head."

" There is always a way to be honorable, blasphemer. Do not spit on the graves of or fallen in saying such."

"Is this honorable, then? These children will surely die if we don't act fast. Do you think the government will be so merciful? You've seen the files, what they do to those deemed...dangerous."

" ...You speak the truth...But they still are made of traitors, sinners, they must answer to justice."

" They will. As soon as we're done with the main evil."

" Feh...It'll do….for now. But we must watch over the boy scout to make sure he doesn't fall for their tales of woe. He is strong but soft in matters of emotion."

"He won't like it when we take them in despite all his efforts of diplomacy."

"He won't have a choice."

Bruce was snapped back to reality by Clark.

"Well?" Superman asked.

Batman growled and moved for the door.

"We bring them in the second the demon is defeated. Every single one. If you fail, I'm hunting them all down myself."

"Bruce, the Titans, Diana, what about-"

"Every. Single. One." Bruce grounded out.

"Only for questioning if it comes down to it. Imprisonment will only further cause a divide. I won't let it get worse. You have to let me try and make this work."

Batman scowled, gripping the door handle until his knuckles turned white.

"One week."

"Bruce, that's hardly time to."

"Seven days, Clark. Then I'm drowning them out of whatever hole you find them in." Batman slammed the door shut.

Clark sighed. Bruce was worse off than he thought, rationality was still there but was quickly waning. Despite everything thrown at him over the years, it was these kids who were pushing him to the edge.

A week was hardly enough time to mend bridges. But Clark knew Bruce long enough to realize that wasn't top priority. The demon must be stopped, but in the absence of an actual evil, the Phantom Thieves took his place.

The demon is destroying Batman's very legacy and reputation, and in Bruce's rage he vents on the only known associates he could find.

But it didn't matter, Superman put his foot down when he came to realization last night. The Phantom Thieves deserve more than to be thrown aside as terrorists. Diana was right all along.

Superman walked down the hall and to a door, he sighed, having to prepare himself.

As he opened the door, Kara immediately perked her head towards him.

"Did you do it?" Kara asked, crossing her arms.

"I'm heading to Gotham, if that's what you mean." Superman answered.

"Good. I'm going with you." Kara declared.

"Kara, you can't, you barely have control of your powers and-"

"AND WHO THE HELL IS GONNA TRAIN ME IN KANSAS KAL?!" Kara yelled.

Superman reeled back.

"Kara, I-"

"I'm tired of being pushed aside. You said Wonder Woman would help me, and now she quit! So who's gonna do it?" Kara huffed.

"I'm sorry, but things will have to calm down before-"

"Kal, I respect what you do...but I think we both know that will never happen." Kara sighed.

"Kara. This is bigger than you or me. I can't bring you and I think you know why." Superman said softly.

"...I just...I want to know why they would go through all of this just to take Diana. I don't get it at all. I don't get any of their planning here. Plus, I know when it comes to Batman, you don't stand your ground! I don't think he's the one who should be in charge of all this. And I think you're thinking the same." Kara huffed.

Superman sighed.

"Go back to the farm for now. I'll keep in contact." '

"You'd better." Kara relented as she tightly hugged him.

Superman returned it in kind.

"Don't make me worry like that. I was so scared...scared that you've forgotten what our family stood for."

"Never" Superman said firmly.

"Promise me...Promise me you'll make this right." Kara whispered.

"I promise." Superman nodded.

After they said their goodbyes, Superman was left alone once more. The ramifications of the Phantom Thieves' actions weighed heavily on his mind. The government, Batman, all the villains...they all want them gone.

Superman knew the chances were slim, but he had to figure out their plans. For the sake of the League, but also for the sake of himself. In the name of truth, justice, and the American way.

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MIRROR STRENGTH RANK 1/10

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Batman stormed through the hallways of the Hall of Justice. With everything now out of the way he can finally get back to his city and fix the mess the Phantom Thieves made. But if he was mad earlier, he was fuming now. Clark basically forced him to pull back on the people who caused all this chaos.

The general in his mind cursed and swore in Bruce's subconscious. Allowing such pitiful tactics being used only to keep the few allies he had left after the fallout settles. The last thing he needed right now was swaying more fools to the Phantom's side.

"Hey Bats I-" Booster Gold called.

"Not right now." Batman growled as he kept marching through the halls.

"It's important, I swear. Skeets is out of commission and I was wondering if you-"

"Not. Now."

"R-right. Some other time then." Booster Gold backed away.

The hero watched as the Dark Knight sulked away to his city.

"Probably for the best. Wouldn't want to create a paradox again." Booster sweated as he went to his temporarily assigned room..

Skeets laid on Gold's bed, still shut down. Despite his best efforts he couldn't work out how to reboot him yet.

"The hell is going on? Not a single shred of history has been held back to me before. Why now? Why with this?" Booster asked, running a hand through his hair. Skeets didn't reply like he always did, the silence becoming deafening.

"*sigh* What better way than to see for myself. Have to reboot you somehow." Booster Gold opened up his holographic console clocking in a date to travel to.

A wormhole opened in front of him and Booster Gold held Skeets under his arm. He didn't know what he'd find in his investigation, but he knew it wouldn't be anything good.

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Batman stood by Cyborg in tense silence as the teen pushed the correct coordinates into the teleporter. Neither had nothing nice to say to one another. The portal opened into the Batcave where the rest of the remaining Titans and Alfred stood.

No one said a word for the longest time. None of the Titans have seen Batman this mad before. An almost hurricane like fury held back only by his stern facade of neutrality.

Tim stood tall in front of it all. Ready for the biggest verbal assault he's gotten in years. He knew it all by heart now. The anger or the cold shoulder he could handle, no...this was disappointment. The perfect blend of both.

"What. Happened?" Batman pressed simply.

Tim calmly and clearly explained every minute of what happened at the port. No point in lying, Bruce could see through that. No point sugar coating it when he knew Bruce wasn't the type to take that kind of thing. Facts, intel, as clear as he could utter was all Tim gave.

Tim took it all. The brunt of the punishment, the shame of being a failure to his mentor, the brutal and harsh criticisms that came with failing what should have been a simple catch and grab.

As leader, he should have been more aware, been more tactful, he should have seen Joker's patterns and realized the true goals behind all the attack.

"And how did you get that cut on your shoulder?" Batman raised an eyebrow.

Tim's eyes met Damien's for a split second. Every step of the way the younger Robin made the wrong call. Jeopardizing the mission, going against orders, and just being an all around piece of shit.

Even now, the twerp crossed his arms in defiance, refusing to admit any wrongdoing.

"Damien. Explain yourself." Bruce caught on without Tim saying a word.

"I would have had them if this so-called "leader" just let me at them." Damien hissed.

Tim's eyes twitched. Bruce's criticism he respected and took at heart. But this twelve year old? He wanted to throw through a fucking wall.

He didn't lose his composure. But every word the boy's father uttered went one ear and out the other. Tim knew it, the Titans knew it, hell even Alfred knew it. But Bruce seemed satisfied with extra training, and a grounding of two weeks.

And the kid had the nerve to be angry about it.

"I WAS THIS CLOSE TO TAKING THEM OUT! IF IT WASN'T FOR TIM I WOULD HAVE BEATEN THEM!"

"You would have died in the explosion! I am not losing you because you refuse to work with a team. You will follow Tim's orders to the letter, or I promise you I will never let you wield a sword again." Batman growled.

"I WON'T FOLLOW A WEAKLING I DON'T RESPECT! AND I WON'T WORK WITH A TEAM MADE OF COMPLETE FAILURES!" Damien roared.

"You will if you want to stay on this operation. Take the next week to work on your attitude. Because for the next seven days you are all to remain hidden. I don't want a single one of you to even step out of this cave."

"I thought I made it clear we're bringing the others home!" Cyborg hissed.

"Not now Victor. You'll have the chance, after Superman pointlessly attempts to sway them." Batman scoffed dismissively.

"Pointlessly?!"

"Pointlessly...they made their damn choice. You're going to have to deal with it."

Cyborg gritted his teeth and clenched his fists in raw fury. Batman walked away from the group as he made his way to Wayne Tower.

"...I would send you all back to the Tower, but unfortunately, my hands are tied. Just know all of you are on a very tight leash. I am in control here, this is my city. And I'll be damned if any of you try and recklessly go after the Thieves. If I catch a single one of you outside without my permission, you're done." Batman said with finality.

Cyborg gritted his teeth, as well as his fists. Tim came up and put a hand on his shoulder.

"We understand. I'll make sure to keep everyone at bay." Tim nodded.

Batman didn't answer him as he stomped over to his changing room.

"The hell was that Vic? Never saw you so pissed before." Tim raised an eyebrow.

"He wants the defecting Titans in prison. I know he does." Cyborg growled.

"Serves them fucking right." Damien snorted.

Cyborg lifted the boy up by the collar and slammed him against the wall.

"Listen here you little shit. You can whine and growl all you want to daddy but not to me. Those people you're throwing in the trash are family. Whether you like it or not." Cyborg promised.

"They're traitors and scum. They aren't coming back and I wouldn't let them even if they tried." Damien hissed.

"You little…" Cyborg gritted out..

"Victor." Tim said.

Cyborg looked at Tim and scowled. He threw Damien to the ground.

"I'm dragging those idiots back if it's the last thing I do, Tim. Damn your mentor to hell if he stops me." Cyborg declared.

"We can't do that Cy! We're on thin ice as it is." Tim scowled.

"I ain't losing any more family! Not now, not ever!" Cyborg yelled.

"Victor...what happened wasn't your fault just-"

"No. No one will be left behind. I'm either bringing them home, or taking them down myself." Cyborg firmly stated.

Before anyone could stop them he opened a portal and jumped through it.

"Dammit!" Tim cursed.

"Victor isn't talking sense. We have to find him before he ruins himself." Miss Martian said.

"What in the world happened to him up there? It must have been bad to have upset him like this." Tim sighed.

"I think we all know what happened. He had to face one of our own, and couldn't take it." Aqualad said.

"Beast Boy probably." Superboy grunted.

"Definitely Beast Boy." Miss Martian sighed.

"Alfred... We're going after him. If Batman finds out-" Tim started to say..

"I'll try to calm him Master Tim, but I fear such things might be harder than usual. Especially with the current state of things." Alfred sighed.

"That's the best I can ask for. Come on guys, let's stop Cyborg from himself." Tim ordered.

Cyborg meanwhile stood in an alley in the city he was coming to hate. His whole life in shambles due to the actions of a few scum who operated here.

He pressed a few buttons on his arm to activate his holographic disguise. A simple hoodie and jeans appeared on top of his armor.

He pulled the hoodie up to shield himself from the rain and walked into a crowd of people to blend in.

No one would stop him in his pursuit. If he was the only one who wanted to bring everyone back together then so be it.

He'll just have to do it himself.

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MIRROR EMPEROR RANK 1/10

SKILL ACQUIRED: Rogue AI

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AN: Hey guys. Sorry for such a long wait. Literally got a job and lost it in between chapters. Hopefully the new one I find will have a better schedule for me to write. PTs are coming soon I promise. Hope you guys liked this chapter.

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BONUS:

May 31st, Midday

Belle Reve, Louisiana

Sunny

Rick Flag walked through the intense security that was set up all around the prison. He ran a hand through his hair, the meetups were always the hardest thing about new missions. Not to mention the planning and organizing of the entry. Multiple rouges that were meant to be imprisoned were going to be hard to slip into Gotham. And that's without even mentioning Batman.

"Sir! Welcome back sir!" A man saluted fully dressed to the teeth for warfare. As if guns could stop some of the people they kept here.

"At ease. Any takers?" Rick Flag asked, knowing the answer.

"No one knows the mission yet sir. Miss Waller left us all in the dark."

"Great..." Rick sighed.

"But everyone here heard the news of the Watchtower attack. Even the inmates…"

"Wonderful… Just give me the files we have on hand." Rick said.

Rick took them from the man and went into his office to put together a team that was semi capable and easy to convince.

"Waller is going to be the death of me." Rick sighed.

About an hour passed before a knock on his door. He groaned and told them to come in.

Rick didn't recognize him. He was a lean man dressed in a standard suit and tie. The man's only distinguishing features were his long black hair and goatee, a pair of rimless round glasses framed his face. Clearly from asian descent.

"Who the hell are you?" Rick asked.

"Ah, sorry sir- um, they sent me to ask if you were ready to pick the inmates. The name is-"

"Don't care. Office boys must have sent ya cause you're new. I'll learn your name once you prove you won't run off after meeting the inmates." Rick huffed.

The new guy deflated and grumbled. Rick got mild enjoyment out of the man's suffering. Every new person assigned here got the same treatment. They get to interact with all the inmates to get acquainted with the "team".

"Come on, rookie. Time to instill the fear of god into you." Rick smirked as he put his hand on the man's shoulder.

New Guy could feel in his gut, bad things were coming.

They passed through the halls, until they approached a certain meta containment cell. A woman sat in the middle of the floor cross legged, wearing the standard orange prison suit. New guy noticed the pale blue skin and white hair the inmate had, as a fat rat had scurried around the cell. She half heartedly reached out to the animal, trying to catch it out of boredom.

"The food here is horrible." She said simply.

"You know. I can't give you people, Caitlin."

New Guy raised an eyebrow at that in confusion, until the woman snatched the rodent up in her hand. In seconds the thing froze over screaming in pain all the while.

"At least give me something bigger than the rats that infest this place. I'm starving here." Caitlin threw the frozen rat over her shoulder and once it hit the ground, it shattered into a million pieces.

"What the hell!?" New Guy backed away.

"Miss Snow here is facing fifty years for the murder of ten people in Star Labs. Good old Firestorm caught her in Pittsburg robbing banks and labs." Rick introduced.

"Hey cutie~. Why don't you come in here for a good time. I'll even throw in some snuggling." Caitlin grinned wickedly.

"Hard pass." New guy said.

"Aw~ was the rat the deal breaker?"

"Miss Snow here has to suck body heat out of living things to stay alive. I'd advise against doing anything intimate. Plus she's a bitch."

"Fuck you Flag. What's the word from the courts?" Caitlin growled.

"Ah man, they're this close to thinking about parole. Gonna need one more mission out of you before they're convinced, I think." Flag smirked.

"You son of a bitch! I was this close to fixing my body before you pigs caught me!"

"You know the deal. Ten years reduced off the sentence for each successful operation. Come on, you're down to fifty from a life sentence. Only got four more after this if you agree. Deal?" Rick asked.

"Whatever." Caitlin crossed her arms.

"Good enough for me. Boys, take her to the briefing room." Rick ordered.

While Rick and New Guy were walking, Rick crossed off Killer Frost off his list of names.

"What did she mean by 'fixing her body'?" New Guy asked.

"Some freaks are born like that, some are made. She was just unlucky enough to be turned into that." Rick shrugged.

"How do you go from normal to that?" New Guy snarked.

"Something, something, scientist junk. Never got into the details. Not really in the business of making friends with murderers." Rick huffed.

They walked to another cell, the man inside was hunched over with his head down and hands clasped. New Guy noticed the man didn't have a hair on his body, but was covered in tattoos instead.

Seemed to be dealing with some heavy internal turmoil too.

Rick knocked on the glass.

"Started praying now Chato?" Rick jeered.

"What do you want Flag? Another mission for me to be a puppet in?" Chato scowled up at the man.

"Yep." Rick said simply.

"Why don't you just kill me now?" Chato huffed.

"This ain't death row."

"It is in all but name."

"Look, you know the deal. You can either go outside and be useful, or rot in here...with our persuaders…" Rick threatened.

Chato glared at Rick, but sighed seeing no point in this conflict.

"Fine, I'll do it." Chato grumbled.

"Cool. Boys?" Rick ordered and walked away.

"That wasn't so bad." New Guy huffed.

"El Diablo over there has a death wish. Feels guilty about the kids he's burned to death."

"Jesus…"

"Took a while to convince him to help us. Had to drug and dump him the first time." Rick huffed.

"The hell, why? Plenty of other guys in the prison."

"Desperation mostly. Don't ask."

Rick stopped at the next cell. Immediately, the woman inside charged at the glass, only to crash into it and be electrocuted back. She crumbled to the floor, looking like a feral animal with her wild black hair and feral eyes. The orange clothes she wore were tattered from bite marks made in an attempt to escape. Her arms completely bound behind her with meta cuffs, her blue eyes filled with absolute disgust and hate.

"FOOLISH MORTALS. FREE ME AND I'LL GRANT YOU A QUICK DEATH!"

"Lashina here was abandoned during the Darksied invasion. Waller managed to nab her from the nerd types who wanted to cut her open and examine her parts. Had plenty of that from the others downed in battle, isn't that right Lashina?" Rick asked coldly.

"MY LORD WILL COME FOR ME AND TURN YOU ALL INTO PASTE!" She hissed.

"Hasn't happened for the past year. And if it did, we'd put him into the fucking ground where he belongs." Flag growled.

"MY LORD WOULD NEVER FALL TO THE LIKES OF YOU! ONE DAY I'LL BE OUT OF THIS CAGE AND RIP YOUR SPINE FROM YOUR BODY!"

"Well if ya did, some other guy upstairs will push the button to blow your brains out. If I recall, it was Radion that completely renders you guys caput. That little bomb in your skull is full of the stuff. Just for you." Rick threatened with a serious coldness in his tone.

Lashina backed up in terror at that.

"You jest! There is no way this world's inferior weapons could pierce my skin!" She sweated.

Rick looked to his left and a guard handed him a detonator. He held it in front of her with his thumb ready to press.

"You really want to test me girl? You should have killed me alongside the millions of other troops and innocents you and your kin murdered without remorse. Cause I sure as hell don't forgive and forget easily." Rick glared at her.

Lashina sweated nervously, noticeably silent.

"Your new commander is the United States government. Or more specifically, me and Miss Waller. Do I make myself clear?" Rick continued.

"Y-yes…" Lashina said.

"Yes, what?" Rick pressed.

"Yes...My lord." Lashina glared at him.

"Sir works just fine. Your codename will be Duchess, on the account you always have such a stick up your ass. The boys in support came up with it. Do anything out of line and I won't hesitate to pull the trigger. " Rick promised.

The newly dubbed Duchess remained silent, not wanting to anger her captor.

"Bring her to the briefing room. Hopefully with her someone will fill the hole Blockbuster left." Rick huffed as he walked away.

New Guy, not wanting to be with the murderer of millions any longer than he had to.

"Do I even want to know what happened to- What was it, Blockbuster?"

"Waller blew his brains out. Comes with the deal. Did the guys in support tell you nothing about what we do here?" Rick chided.

"Eh...not really. Too busy placing bets on who's going to die on this mission."

"Heh. They're probably betting on that being you." Rick huffed.

"You guys are really good at hospitality. Anyone ever tell you guys that?" New Guy snarked.

"Plenty." Rick smirked.

They stopped at another cell. A purple haired man sat on the ground against the left side wall. He looked up at Rick and New Guy and scoffed.

"Figured the old stars and stripes wanted me to catch some kiddies." The man said in a thick british accent.

"Thought I could use a guy who knows how to start a revolution. No matter how short it lasted." Rick smirked.

"So you are after the Phantoms, eh? Still can't stand for anyone doing your jobs better than you, can you mate?" Black asked sarcastically.

"Superman did it just fine before your kind showed up." Rick answered.

"Fuck off. Bastard cheated." Black hissed.

"He didn't cheat, you were just dumb enough to think you won. And who could win with a stupid name like Manchester?" Rick laughed.

"I'LL KILL YA, YOU POMPOUS PUPPET! FIVE MINUTES! You and me! Hell, I'll even keep on the meta cuffs!" Black roared.

"In your dreams. Ya got two missions left in you. In or out?"

"Oh I'm in. And once I'm out I'll prove to ya idiots Superman can fall just like the rest of us!" Black growled.

"What you chose to do outside the cell is your business. Just don't be surprised if it brings ya right back here. Bring him to the briefing room." Rick ordered.

Guards opened the door and forced Black down the halls. The man kicked and cursed the whole way.

New Guy watched the guards and sighed.

"Come on New Guy, got a few more crooks to fetch." Rick called.

They arrived at the next cell, but no one was in it as far as New Guy could see.

"The next guy invisible or something?" New Guy snarked.

"Nah, that's a few cells over. Look up." Rick pointed.

A thin, young man sat on the ceiling. Unlike other inmates he wore a posh suit and tie, almost like a uniform to a private school. His skin a pale blue, his black hair straight except two tufts that stuck out like demon horns. His eyes opened to reveal lifeless black eyes, like a doll's. He grinned at the sight of Flag.

"Ah, I was just thinking how boring it was in this cell." The boy smiled.

"I take it you're in then, Bleak?"

"I am 'in' nothing, sir. Tell me the thing you want dead and maybe I'll humor you." Bleak offered.

"You'll find out the mission brief with the others. If you agree." Rick rejected the boy.

"Oh, you're no fun. This whole place is so dreadfully boring." Bleak frowned

"Listen, Klarion. Either say you're in or I'll put your cat in the pound." Rick growed.

"So quick to anger too. You wouldn't harm my poor Teekl. For without her, you wouldn't have me." Klarion tried to call the man's bluff.

"You wanna test that theory, kid?" Rick had the guards drag out a ferocious orange cat. It's green eyes filled with hate.

"MEOW! HISSS! HISSS!"

"Teekl, you look horrible! Have you peasants not bathed her!? She looked fresh off the streets!" Klarion yelled.

"Now what do you say, brat? You in or not?" Rick growled.

"No fun at all. Fine, if only to stop my kitty's whines." Klarion shrugged.

"Bring him out and give him the cat." Rick ordered.

Klarion floated down to the floor, and walked out of the cell. The guard's opened the cat's cage and she immediately bolted to Klarion and clawed to his shoulder.

"Mrow….hisss." Teekl grumbled.

"There, there girl. Papa is here." Klarion petted Teekl's head, comforting her.

"Remember kid, one wrong move and I'll give you up to Doctor Fate." Rick threatened.

"And you should remember that old man doesn't scare me. Was Constantine not available? He's way more fun than that old fart." Klarion chuckled.

"Take him to the briefing room." Rick ordered.

Klarion smirked as he scooped Teekl into his arms and walked with the guards.

"What is he, sixteen? Didn't know this was juvie." The New Guy scoffed.

"All we know is he's young for his race. The rest is a bunch of magic shit, I never could understand. Come on." Rick commanded.

"How many people do you need for this? Seems like overkill."

"You're either an idiot or too empathic. Neither type lasts long here. Next guy is proof of that."

They stopped at a cell, where a red haired man with a full beard slept loudly. Rick pounded on the cell door.

"WAKE UP HARKNESS! GOT FRESH BLOOD!" Rick yelled.

"AH, FUCK! You bastard, I was sleepin' like a baby." Harkness grumbled, in a heavy Australian accent.

"In or out?" Rick asked simply.

"Blimy, treat me to dinner first, mate….Fuck it, like you even gotta ask." Harkness smirked.

"Maybe this time, you'll finally bite the bullet." Rick huffed.

"You wish, only got one more on me mate. I'll be free as a bird. You gonna miss me Flaggie?" Harkness grinned.

"We both know you never stay out of prison long." Rick scowled.

"HA! I'll give ya that. What's today's meal? Assaination? Military coup? Oh! I know, ya finally lost it and decided to sic us on the clown in Gotham." Harkness guessed.

"No, no, and close. Bring him to briefing boys." Rick ordered.

"Ah no need to worry lads. I know the way fine." Harkness chuckled as he was pushed through the halls.

"You really just stuff that guy in with monsters and crazies?" New Guy asked.

"Hasn't died yet, no matter how many times it almost came to that. Old Boomerang just has to come back for more. Now quiet, the last one requires more...grace" Rick signed as he walked.

They approached a cell surrounded by even more guards than usual.

"Another accident?" Rick asked.

"Yes sir. It was short but...very violent." the guard said.

"Will it interfere with the mission?"

"Sir. I wouldn't. We have the other magic freak, why not use him?"

"I am. We need every advantage over Batman in this. I picked both of them, hoping the two will cancel each other out."

"That pale freak show wouldn't give a damn if she let loose on the city."

"He will if he doesn't want me neutering his cat. Let me and the new guy through."

Rick pushed past the group of guards. He walked up to the window and put his hand on the glass. The blonde woman inside was sitting on her bed clutching her legs to her chest, her blue eyes red and puffy from crying.

"Hey June." Rick greeted softly.

The woman looked up and sighed.

"Hey Rick."

"Bad day?"

"She's antsy, bored. You know she hates being either of those things." June huffed.

"Well tell her she'll be able to stretch her legs if she plays ball. Need you both on this one." Rick said.

"No...No please! I've seen the footage, don't let her close to those kids! That's what this is about isn't it? She feels their power Rick….she likes them...wants to use them! I don't know what for...I think it's just because she's never seen something like them before?" June begged.

"Never?" Rick raised an eyebrow.

"I knew it. Waller wants to use them like she does me. Offers them a chance to "get better" but really just prolong their suffering." June glared.

"We've tried everything, June. Even Dr. Fate can't fix you. Like it or not you two are bound, can't have one without the other." Rick tried to calm her with his words.

"Dr. Fate WONT FIX ME! SAID ONE LIFE ISN'T WORTH SACRIFICING FOR THE LIVES OF MILLIONS!" June started to cry again, in her anger her eyes started to glow a bright green.

"June...deep breaths. Try to calm yourself." Rick raised his hands. All the guards raised her weapons.

"I'm so tired. Tired of the voice in my head. TIRED OF YOU IDIOTS NOT TAKING HER OUT!" Green magic started to overtake the cell.

"Woah...woah…" New Guy backed up.

The lights in Belle Reve flickered sporadically, some bursting from the overload of energy.

"JUNE EITHER TURN OR CALM THE HELL DOWN! OR I-"

"YOU WON'T DO SHIT! BECAUSE YOU NEED ME TO BE THE PUPPET! NEED ME TO BE IN PAIN! YOU NEED ME TO BE-"

June couldn't hold the being back any longer. An explosion of magic erupted in the cell.

"CODE GREEN! CODE GREEN!" A guard shouted, multiple blast shield doors closed in the hallways.

"THE FUCK IS HAPPENING?!" New Guy screamed.

"Aw, she's just showing off. She always can tell a new guy a mile away. Feels the fear going on in your head."

"YES FEAR ME! WORSHIP ME!" A hooded red-haired woman replaced the once meek girl.

"Can it Enchantress, you know the target. I take it you want in?" Rick asked.

"Ah~ The Phantom Thieve's power calls to me like a moth to a flame. Such novel souls are kept inside those little bodies. I'll break them and make them my slaves~." Enchantress wickedly smiled.

"Just make sure you bring them in alive." Rick said.

"But of course~. Slaves are no good dead, are they?" Enchantress chuckled.

"Let her out." Rick ordered.

"BUT SIR!" A guard said.

"Did I stutter?"

The blast shield doors were reluctantly opened. Enchantress strutted out and spread her arms wide apart in joy.

Her gaze fell upon New Guy, and she smirked.

"I feel your soul as well, boy. I wonder...what game are you playing at hiding your power from these fools?" Enchantress called out in New Guy's mind.

"Uh…" New Guy sweated.

"New Guy! Come on, we ain't done with your initiation yet." Rick commanded.

"R-right! Be right there!" New Guy rushed to catch up with Flag.

"Play the fool all you wish. I can smell your fear. If your kin are not killed by these fools, know they'll be under my thumb as long as you live." The woman sent a wink his way.

New Guy shivered as he followed Rick.

"Is initiation done, yet? Any other things you got to test my faith in reality?"

"Heh. You held up pretty good for it being your first day. Usually by the fourth we gotta send them home crying. Where were you transferred from to make you so snarky and calm?" Rick asked.

"Don't worry about it." New Guy deflected.

"Well if Waller let you in here, she either trusts you or has no other choice. Welcome to the team. Now you can tell me your name." Rick shook his hand and nodded.

"Oh, it's-"

"Sir! Fresh intel on Gotham!" A guard ran up to Flag.

"What is it?" Rick asked.

"Quinn's in GCPD. Waller instructed me to tell you to bring her in."

"I already got my hands filled with Floyd. And that's already going to be hard enough." Rick groaned.

He looked over to New Guy and an idea struck.

"Hey...New Guy." Rick started.

"Yeah sure, fly me over to Gotham and I'll drag her kicking and screaming here. Not like that's inconvenient or anything." New Guy snarked.

"That won't be necessary. You'll fly over and drag her kicking and screaming to the hideout we've setup in Gotham. So hey, that's a little less kicking and screaming for you, champ." Rick slapped his shoulder and left New Guy to question how he got into this mess. How everything got so out of his hands.

Figures, though, comes with working with the kids. And even on the off chance he left them for dead, which he would never do...there was the other issue.

New Guy allowed the facade to slip just a little as he walked out the prison. A scowl formed on his face, and his fists clenched.

" I'll down that tiny bastard myself. No one messes with my family." Anger was soon replaced by his desperation.

" Just hang on Akane...please hang on a bit longer."

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AN: It feels good to be back. I missed teasing all of you ;3

Btw I'm officially putting a call out to anybody who wants to help me and Tanuki edit this bad boy.

We're looking for people with free time and a good grasp of the English language.

We're trying to redo the previous chapters after multiple requests to do so.

PM me if you're interested.