The New 52 in The MCU
Authors Notes: This Story will be taking Superman and Wonder Woman-including Olympian pantheon; Themyscira; Amazons(more post-crisis like, the New 52 version was bit too dark for my tastes); Krypton; Smallville; and Metropolis-from the New 52 run and bringing them over to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Those will be the only intact aspects of the New 52 brought over, the rest will be more of an amalgamation. I honestly loved the Superman/Wonder Woman pairing, it was actually what got me into the New 52. I can't stand how they got rid of it by simply killing off Superman, replacing him and then just making it so he never existed in the first place. The most relatable Superman that DC comics ever created and they just drop him to return to the old classic Superman with his Lois Lane relationship.
I'm not knocking the success and popularity of Clark Kent/Lois Lane and Diana/Steve but I just loved the relationship of Superman/Wonder Woman as cannon. They both grew up different from everybody else around them, Clark hiding his abilities and Diana as "Clay". They fit so well together and even had ruff patches and realistic relationship issues that were both relatable and fitting for super powered entities. Not that there wasn't several issues with the writing revolving around the normal relationship part of their pairing. It was like the New 52 just had them get together just to end up in fights from either one or both of their worlds. They hinted at more normal outings that couples have but focused mostly on their hero side of things. It seems like DC had a good idea but just dropped the ball and caved to die hard fans of the original couplings.
I'd not have been so put off if they had simply failed as a couple and ended up with Lois and Steve respectably(Or someone else, just get away from the same old thing for what, 60 years now). But no, DC decided to erase Clark and make Diana's experiences just fake memories created by Ares children in a complicated attempt at freeing Ares from his imprisonment. The whole idea that Dr. Manhattan is messing with the DC universe and ended up creating the New 52 is actually a really good idea. But they blew it in my eyes for erasing the entire Superman/Wonder Woman relationship like it never happened-that the New 52 superman was never real and most of Diana's life being fake.
Sorry to rant like that, I'm not here to complain, but write an interesting story while selfishly keeping the Superman/Wonder Woman story alive from the New 52. Seeing as the MCU is live action and the New 52 isn't, I'll have Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman(obviously) and Smallvile's Tom Welling as Superman. I liked Welling's performance as Clark Kent over Henry Cavill's Man of Steel(you can use whoever in your mind).
The New 52 Superman was around 32 when he died and both him and Diana experienced a lot of battles that the Avengers of the MCU hadn't yet experienced(except for Thor, considering his age and the wars he's been in before being cast out to Earth, plus he'll be more comic like)so they'll tend to be all around better than most of them. Admittedly Captain America, Black Widow, and Hawkeye have a lot of experience in combat but typically only by human standards around the time of the first Avengers movie.
I'll be adding a few other New 52 elements-those will be a surprise for later. Fair warning I'll have Superman and Wonder Woman remain mostly the same, brought over from the New 52 before the Rebirth and right at Superman's death, saving him and bringing Diana along so they can be together. They will have all their powers, memories, and experiences in their younger selves(further explained in this chapter). I'm not looking to rewrite their story, but continue it along in the MCU and hopefully explore their relationship outside of villainous plots and battles(not that there won't be plenty of those too). There will be a few similar plots from the New 52 early on but with several key differences that'll expand into very different events due to them being in the Marvel universe.
I'll be incorporating the live action X-men movies as best I can, probably taking the timeline of X-men Apocalypse being canon for them. I completely agree with the time travel premise described in Endgame, so the changes that came from X-men: Days of Future Past just allowed for their timeline to be saved. Seeing that I wasn't a fan of how they portrayed Xavier in Dark Phoenix-not to mention how much they cut from the comic version, so that was definitely not their future(There will be a Dark Phoenix moment but vastly different from both movie and comic). Deadpool will get in there eventually, he'll have to stay clear of Superman for obvious reasons. No way Superman meets Deadpool and goes "Eh, he's an ok guy just killing bad guys. I'll let him go."
I'll be making Thor more like the comics, not that I don't get a kick out of the live action renditions, but comic Asgard and the Norse pantheon are just better(Lets be honest, the only reason the MCU made Thor that way was for budget reasons. The cost of all the needed special effects would have been near Avatar big to have done the Norse Gods and Asgard justice.) Plus, with how strong New 52's Superman is-not counting the early years when he was still developing his powers-even comic Thor would lose-not easily mind you and mostly in my opinion-live action Thor wouldn't stand a chance. I'll incorporate Jessica Jones, Daredevil, Iron Fist(vastly different and more comic like, plus surprise), Luke Cage(Still not sure how but Marvel movies need more diversity like their comic counterparts), and the Punisher live action shows as well.
I understand that Marvel has it's own Olympian pantheon and Amazons. Seeing that the MCU hasn't even mentioned or hinted at their existence yet, I'll just carry over DC's Olympian pantheon from the New 52 with a few alterations to fit with Marvel's past-which in certain areas will be altered by the previously mentioned other New 52 elements.
I want to make this very clear before people start giving me flack for altering the MCU so heavily, I'm only using the MCU or Earth-199999 due to how incomplete and jacked it's timelines are. Gives me more flexibility with tinkering around, especially with how messed the X-men movies' timelines are and how they were Fox owned, thus didn't fit into the MCU. To make those work-First Class through Apocalypse-a lot of the MCU's past has to be altered. In the MCU Captain America was the first known superhuman entity and was kept that way until Iron Man came around in 2008. But by Days of Future Past the whole world knew of mutants-i.e. superhumans-existence since 1973. So Tony Stark is no longer the starting point of the emergence of enhanced individuals in the world(As Vision suggested in civil war).
Oh! Side note. I've always wondered why Mutants were always so hated and feared by the populace when equally dangerous beings like The Fantastic Four are so well liked. Sure I get the whole allegory of X-men and racism in America/world but why only Mutants. They're born with a power that only reveals itself at puberty, it's not like they asked for it anymore than heroes bitten by radioactive spiders or hit by cosmic rays. Hell, several mutants share similar powers with other heroes yet, they aren't as ostracized as mutants even though they can be just as dangerous.
On that note...the reoccurring issue of supervillians breaking out of prison and continuously causing havoc and death. I get that happening at first, not use to housing super powered beings but eventually you'd think people would've learn that regular iron bars and prisons just don't cut it. Both DC and Marvel repeatedly do this to keep pushing storylines and recycle villains over and over again. Realistically people rarely break out of prisons and when they do they tend to get caught very quickly. Sure, there are a few exceptions to the rule even in real life, but nowhere as frequent as they do in comics.
That's why in my story when most villains are convicted and sentenced, they are going to stay that way. Sure a few like Fisk can and most likely will use wealth and the loopholes of our justice system to get out or overturn a conviction. But those supervillains that don't have those kind of means at their disposal will be screwed like most of our prison population. Even then those are court battles that take years moving through the slow moving wheels of justice. I know, you're going to argue that super powered criminals will just breakout with their powers or intellect, and at first that'll happen as the ever slow to learn government learns how to better house them. But eventually as seen in both movies and comics, prisons are built capable for neutralizing their powers and made secure enough that only minds like Stark, Pym, and Reed can figure out how to overcome their security.
That brings me to the whole flaw with the Civil War run in Marvel comics. 600 kids are killed because the New Warriors massively drop the ball in arresting Cobalt Man, Speedfreek, Coldheart, and Nitro. All of America blames heroes for it yet they never once mention that the only reason Nitro was there and able to blow up the school was because he had just broken out of prison again!
No outcry for better prison systems or the government needing to better house the criminals that keep escaping to hurt people-after heroes capture them for the incompetent police(who quite often are on the take of several villains). Though I do like the allegory of Goliath-a black man-being killed during an arrest and just about everyone going "It's ok. It was like when a cop has to kill an armed and dangerous assailant." Total BS that cops still use when trying to justify shooting unarmed-mostly kids-people of color today.
This brings me to my next big annoyance with comics: The constant revival of killed characters! They make these big storylines where heroes fall in the line of duty, usually saving the world or universe in the process, then bringing them back to life. Outside of Gods and their weird immortality systems with cycles of death and rebirth, that shit is too unrealistic! You want us, the readers to really feel something for a character's death then keep them dead. It's so common now that everyone already knows it's just a matter of time before Iron Man and Captain America come back to life. In my story, when a character dies, and I mean a cold dead body they bury and morn over dead, they'll stay that way. I'm going One Piece on your asses with character deaths. So long and goodbye. We will not see you alive again. Maybe a flashback story at best when said individual was still alive.
We all know why comic book characters like Superman, Batman, Iron Man, and Captain America keep rising from the dead. They're too popular and god forbid if comic writers put a character to rest and try being original. For a long time in manga, once a character's story ended that was it. Maybe an older version being in a spin off of their kids going off on their own adventures. Though recently they've started recycling characters like this whole Dragon Ball Super stuff. At least even then they kept their pervious adventures as their past, but I don't like the trend passing on.
Don't get me wrong, I know the necessity of updating and restarting a series to match the new eras. It's just commit to a character's death and try to bring out more next gen heroes that follow in their footsteps. Not this bull of them holding up the mantle for awhile until the original returns from the dead. If you want the original back you'll have to wait for a full reboot. That's how I feel anyways.
And yes, I know this is kind of like isekai, but with several twists, and that it's a bit overplayed as of late due to it's popularity. But this is what I want to do, so tuff and just don't read.
I don't own anything from DC comics or Marvel, nor do I profit off of this...damn it all.
Chapter One: Second Chances & A New Reality
In the vast empty outside of creation is a gentleman wearing a bowler hat, dark suit, umbrella and with a grey mustache. This gentleman is holding an orb of light in his right hand, which upon closer inspection is constantly shifting in a maelstrom of quantum energy. The Orb is an entire universe, the prime universe of the gentleman's multiverse.
How is this possible? Simple. The gentleman is The Presence. Having been know by various names throughout known existence; God; Yahweh; The Voice; The Hand; The Creator; The Source; and Master Programmer. The Presence is just the most recent name he's used, but he is, in short, what birthed the very cosmic energies that all multiverses in the void spring from. A being of infinite power that is immortal, omnipotent, omniscience, and omnipresent. The only other entities like himself in all of existence-that he knows of-are Mother of Creation and One Above All, not counting all of their counter parts like The Great Evil Beast and One Below All.
There is nothing they can't do or create, besides one another's creations. They can mimic them or even make similar beings and forces, but never the exact creation itself. Only in the times that The Presence and One Above All worked together to create a combined universe(Amalgam Universe) and a few crossover events have they ever had any access to one another's creations. Even then they were collaborating and weren't given unbridled control of them.
Even though some, like One Above All, believe that they are the absolute power of creation in their multiverse. That nothing trumps them or could ever influence them, but the Presence knows otherwise. He can't explain what it is or where it exists, but he knows there is some outside force that created even them, influences them and their work. He simply refers to this force/entity as The Outer. Which is where his current conundrum facing his multiverse comes from.
The Presence' Multiverse's Prime universe is in constant flux on the quantum level. An entity by the name of Dr. Jonathan Osterman, or commonly referred to as Dr. Manhattan, is tampering with it. The fact that he never existed in his bubble of creation, nor did The Presence allow him entry into his multiverse, means that The Outer is the cause behind Dr. Manhattan's appearance. Despite The Presence' attempts to remove Dr. Manhattan and repair the damage threatening his entire multiverse, The Outer won't allow him to. This is the only time The Outer has so actively flexed it's control over him and his bubble of reality.
Being unable to stop Dr. Manhattan has forced The Presence to watch his Prime Universe with his utmost focus. The last time he focused this hard was just prior to Dr. Manhattan's appearance, when the multiverse faced utter destruction. Thus The Presence had the Superman of Earth-23 noticed the problem, who then rallied all the heroes of the multiverse to save it. During the turbulent moment that decided the fate of the Multiverse, must have been when The Outer had Dr. Manhattan sneak into his bubble of reality. It wouldn't have been that much of a problem if the multiverse wasn't still recovering from the Flashpoint event and if Dr. Manhattan had been influencing any other Universe beside his Prime one. For from the Prime all other universes in the Multiverse are adversely effected in one way or another.
The Presence is putting all of his Omnipresence to work at finding some way to subvert The Outer and Dr. Manhattan's tomfoolery. No entity like The Presence can stand it when outside forces they didn't orchestrate themselves starts messing with their bubble of reality. Yet, no matter how he tries The Presence can't interfere with The Outer's schemes. The only good news is that he can foresee the problem eventually being solved and stability being restored to the multiverse.
There is one unintended side effect to this whole ordeal that is effecting The Presence the most. Seeing as his influence and control of his Prime universe is minimal at best, he has come to enjoy simply watching events play out. The most fascinating aspect of this Prime Universe is the relationship that formed between Superman and Wonder Woman. This is the first time such an event has happened in the Prime Earth and without his influence. It's the closest to a natural forming of love in his reality that has ever happened between the two. Not just them, but several others as well. The Presence just happens to favors the Superman/Wonder Woman relationship. The relatable and flawed Superman is unique, without turning evil of course.
The Presence loved how he had to find his way to becoming Superman while on the job. Not just popping out and being near perfect as he saves lives. The same with Wonder Woman's harsher upbringing filled with deceit and lies befitting Greek tragedies. The darker side of Amazonian warriors that most try to ignore for the ideal fantasy of a perfect society that can be run without man's corruption. The Presence admires the truth and honesty in that evil and corruption isn't set to anyone gender or race, but rather something all free thinking beings must struggle against. How that while committing vile acts can be explained away from one's own clouded perspective.
Though still extremely upset at being pushed out of his creation, The Presence has actually enjoyed just watching a story play out. That is until he notices the death of that Superman, nothing new or that he hasn't done himself several times, but it's what is coming next that infuriates him. He can see ahead in time, the erasing/merging of the original Superman and the altering of Wonder Woman's life to make all those experiences fake memories. The Outer-through Dr. Manhattan-is undoing it all!
That's not fair! He was getting attached to them and their story. But alas, even he can't prevent it from happening. The Outer is the only force that can overpower him and it won't let him. Wait! He can't stop it, but The Presence can still save them!
Focusing on the exact right moment to strike, having instantly figured out what to do-he is the strongest entity in reality after all. Just as the Rebirth of his Prime Universe happens, he'll switch out all the parts he loves-Superman; Wonder Woman; and their respective lives-and switch them with carbon copies-perfect to the last detail, even their souls-and remove them from reality. He'll have to restore Superman from the dust he's become and remove the kryptonite poisoning while repairing the damage. An act as easy as snapping his fingers.
The difficulty is in timing the switch so The Outer can't get in his way. So, as the Orb in his right hand starts growing bright, signaling the Rebirth, The Presence places his left on top of it. In a single flash that lights up the entire void-yet doesn't even make The Presence flinch-he pulls out everything he wants, focusing on Superman and Wonder Woman. With the Rebirth of his Prime Universe-cracks being seen as the strain on his creation is reaching a critical point-The Presence has a significantly smaller Orb of light in his left hand. This Orb holds all that he wanted to save from the Rebirth, with a few extra chunks and pieces that were dragged along for the ride.
The Presence wouldn't be surprised if The Outer noticed after the fact, but simply ignored it over continuing it's control over his universe. With his work done, adding a bit more cosmic energy to help the strained universe from collapsing-a more subtle influence from The Outer-he let's his Prime Universe float away to rejoin the sea of his Multiverse.
The question on his mind is what to do now? He has Superman/Wonder Woman preserved in a subspace of creation, but no idea on what to do with them. He's already restored Superman. But what now? Normally he could recreate that universe and just make it another part of his multiverse, but his bubble of reality is too fragile at the moment. It needs time for Dr. Manhattan's journey to end and the subsequent rest for a full recovery of the multiverse. Should he just wait for that to happen, or is there another option?
Then The Presence has an epiphany. He has been-from time to time-peeked in on One above All's works, just as he's sure One Above All has his own. There he's noticed a new work One Above All has been working on with continued frustration. It's a patch work of various aspects and view of his reality, but jumbled in a way The Presence has never seen from One Above All before. It'd be a perfect place to incorporate his little Orb of creations. Plus, aside from that one universe, One Above All's Multiverse is in a much more stable condition than his own. That, and they've worked together before, so The Presence is certain that One Above All would be willing to take his creation into his own.
The only problem is that The Presence wants his creations to stay the same, at least at their core. One Above All doesn't like his creativity being stunted or out of his control. One Above All still refuses to acknowledge the existence of The Outer and it's influence on him. The very fact that the universe he's working is so jumbled and unstable should be all the proof he needs to prove that The Outer exists and is influencing him. But he's too proud and stubborn on such matters. Thus it'd be counter productive to even mention The Outer to him. The Presence will have to appeal to One Above All's ego and the opportunity to prove he's better than The Presence by using The Presence's own creations better than he can.
With a plan in mind, The Presence leaves in a flash of light, traveling to One Above All's outer existence.
A fairly ordinary looking man with white hair, wearing a short sleeved shirt and khaki pants is hunched over a professional drafting table(Jack Kirby from the Fantastic Four). Most would never think this man is the strongest entity and supreme creator of an entire bubble of existence. Yet, that is exactly what One Above All is, simply in one of his favorite forms. From an outside prospective he is simply a comic writer/artist that's going through a bit of a creative block. Which is sort of true, but more along the lines of an infinite being having a mental block in creating an entire universe.
One Above All is still struggling with Universe-199999 that he's been tussling with for years now. It's like his mind doesn't want to agree on what aspects work with other parts of his reality. The timelines are a mess and he's yet to make any decisions on entire areas of existence. He has entire sections finished but can't complete the entire universe due to all these missing gaps. Creating has never been this difficult for him before.
A sudden flash of light and an obvious swell of power that One Above All is very familiar with alerts him of The Presence' arrival. Rare as it is, it's not unexpected for the two of them to occasionally meet and even work together. Though they tend to spend more time trying to one up each other. Perhaps One Above All could use the break, it might even help him overcome is current bout of creative difficulty. Putting down his drafting utensils, One Above All rises from his chair and stretches-more of a reflex than actually being needed-before turning to face The Presence.
Seeing the ever familiar gentleman holding one of his Orbs of creation gets One Above All's mood to quickly make a 180. One Above All knows this is not just a chance to do a crossover, he can feel the Prime of creation coming off of that Orb. Though in bits and pieces, so it won't be a full amalgamation like they've done once before. Eh? Doesn't matter what it's for because getting his hands on creations from The Presence's Prime universe is an opportunity that he can't let slip by.
The Presence chuckles out, "It seems you've notice what I've brought you One Above All. That is, if the saliva starting to form around your mouth is any indicator."
One Above All makes the build up of saliva disappear before replying, "I have no idea what you're talking about Presence. Though I'll admit to being curious as to why you'd bring me such a fine gift?", trying to hide his excitement by moving the conversation along.
The Presence indulges One Above All, "It's partly a gift and you doing me a favor.", needing him to be as happy as possible.
"A gift and a favor?", One Above All pretends to think about, having already figured that out, "That means there are conditions with using what you are giving me. Perhaps even a collaboration of some kind?"
The Presence responds, "The former of course. After coming to an agreement over certain issues, you can have full sway in what happens.", his voice clam and smooth.
One Above All holds out his left hand, "Let me first take a better look at what you're offering.", The Presence doesn't hesitate to hand One Above All the Orb. With it firmly in his hands, One Above All dives deep into the every aspect held within The Presence's Orb. It only takes a nanosecond for One Above All to fully examine every atom held within the Orb. It's just like he thought, only bits and pieces of The Presence's creation. Yet, there are two large, nearly complete sections surrounding Wonder Woman and Superman. One Above All see's that only Themyscira; the Olympian pantheons; Wonder Woman; Krypton; Smallville; Metropolis; and Superman are the only complete parts within the Orb.
Though, there's plenty of the bits and pieces of The Presence' creation that he could do a lot with in his universe. One of the largest pieces includes Gotham and Batman, but too splintered and incomplete to be just added in like the other two of The Presence's famous Trinity. He'll have to rework them to fit in properly with his creations, possibly an amalgamation of some sort. Much more creative freedom than the other two-whom he assumes The Presence wants to stay as is. Otherwise The Presence would have never added conditions, but he'll play along for this little song and dance.
The Presence speaks up once seeing One Above All's grin, "I'll take that means you're interested."
One Above All shifts his attention to The Presence, "Of course. That's why you came to me with this.", holding up the Orb, "Now just get to the part about your conditions. Though I already have a strong idea as to what they are.", the grin still on his face.
The Presence responds, "It is quite obvious upon inspection. I want you to leave Superman and Wonder Woman as they are. I'm looking to save them, not alter them. If it wasn't for the current instability of my multiverse I'd have done it myself."
"Ah. The invader that's been wrecking havoc on your Prime Earth. I've been curious as to why you'd continue to allow that creature to run freely on your Prime. You know how dangerous that is.", One Above All's gaze instantly switching form humorous to serious.
The Presence narrows his eyes in annoyance, "You know full well how. Just because you keep living in denial of The Outers existence doesn't make it any less real."
One Above All scoffs out, "I never said such an entity does not exist. Just that I'm too strong to be effect by it. Unlike some others."
"Really?", The Presence gazes at the jumbled mess on One Above All's drafting table.
One Above All quickly defends himself, "That has nothing to with that thing! I'm just building a masterpiece that requires more time and effort than any half baked universe you've created. If it's not hard to do than it's not worth doing."
Not wanting to devolve into this pointless argument-again-The Presence replies, "Obviously old friend. I was simply pointing out that you must have known what I was going bring you. That's why you've left that masterpiece incomplete until I could give you those missing pieces in your hand.", trying to butter him up.
Choosing to take the out, One Above all agrees, "Exactly friend. I just wasn't expecting you to drag your heels. You should have been here ages ago. But what can I expect from an old timer like yourself."
The Presence lets out an annoyed huff before responding, "Sorry that my old age is a hindrance to you, but not all of us are neophytes with big chips on their shoulders.", getting a low grumble from One Above All.
After an explosive clash of heated gazes between them, they both break out in laughter.
"It's good to see you haven't lost all your fire old friend.", One Above All let loose after a few more chuckles.
"It's equally good to see your humor hasn't faded either young man.", both of them just enjoying the lightened atmosphere-something One Above All needed with all his set backs lately.
Getting to the point One Above All explains, "Look, I'm glad you came but I can't do what you ask. To just shove them in as they currently are with their respective histories would be too intrusive. It'd wreck everything I've been working on. I have to make changes to them for a stable integration into my masterpiece."
The Presence throws One Above All off balance by replying, "I know and I never said you couldn't"
"What? Are you going senile old man? You just said that you didn't want me to change them."
"What I said was that I want you to leave Superman and Wonder Woman as they are. I never said you couldn't make changes to their past, present, and future to fit them into your masterpiece."
A confused look forms on One Above All's face, getting The Presence to further explain, "I want to save Superman and Wonder Woman as they are. Their relationship, experiences, memories, and powers are to stay intact. You can simply put those aspects into their younger selves upon making some changes. I suggest that you kept the changes to a minimum in concern with their childhoods and origins. Too drastic a change could cause mental instability."
One Above All hums for a moment, his hand coming up to cup his chin in thought, "There future events can be anything I want. Their origins not entirely set in stone but the core of it has to be the same. Hmm...it's not as fun for me but an acceptable condition.", thinking out loud.
Opening his eyes, One Above All asks, "How young can I add these aspects and start drastically changing their stories?"
The Presence answers, "I'd say for Wonder Woman you should wait until she's left Themyscira and entered man's world, or at least very near then. Superman...at least until he has started building his superhero imagine in Metropolis. If you want to go later that's fine with me."
"Alright, you have a deal. I'll take them in and around the time you specified I'll awaken their memories from the life they lived previously, along with their powers, experiences, and personalities. That way they've lived both, no matter how different they'll be. But for that to work without them thinking that they've lost their minds we're going to have to explain this to them."
The Presence replies, "You took the words right out of my mouth. I was going to suggest doing just that. It'd be a waste of their time if they kept trying to return home as well. Which won't be possible, except with the two of us working together and even then there'd be no stopping The Outer from erasing them."
"Again with that nonsense. You really need to learn to stand up to The Outer and rid yourself of that ridiculous notion that it's stronger than us.", One Above All chastised.
The Presence give a small sigh of exhaustion, tired of this argument, before replying, "Yes, yes. Of course. I'll work on it later.", he then proceeds to place his hand over the Orb in One Above All's hand, "Now lets get this over with."
One Above All just nods his head in agreement as they both enter the orb, isolating Superman and Wonder Woman for their conversation.
Within The Orb of Creation
Superman awakes from what he assumed was his death to a world of pure light. Picking himself off the ground he sees an infinite expanse of white. It's jarring that even his super senses can't tell where the sky begins and the earth ends. The only thought coming to mind is that he may very well be dead. It's just unlike anything he thought it'd be. He was expecting clouds, golden gate, angles and above all else, his parents waiting for him, welcoming him into heaven-though they'd scorn him for dying so soon.
Clark wasn't expecting this vast nothing before him...wait! His super hearing quickly catches a second heartbeat pounding rapidly behind him. Followed by the sound of highly dense and developed muscles-far beyond that of any human-contracting throughout their body. Indicating that they are moving towards him like a freight train. Moving fast than a bullet Superman turns towards the unknown individual, swinging a hard right hook where he assumes the being's face will be.
Yet, he falls short halfway through his punch upon laying sight on said individual. To most other's eyes the target would be nothing more than a reddish blur. But to his eyes he sees raven locks, olive colored skin, fierce blue eyes softened with her natural loving nature, and her red and silver armor(New 52 suit). Time slows in his rapid movement, allowing him to see that Diana is charging him with her arms wide open, tears spilling from her eyes, and a smile that makes even the sun seem dim in comparison.
Just as everything returns to normal, Clark has dropped his guard and opens his arms to receive Diana's steel crushing hug. Thankfully he's made of sterner stuff than steel. If he wasn't, then the vice grip of her arms around his neck would've snapped it. Not to mention what the follow up smashing of her marble lips upon his steel mouth would've done to lesser beings. Yet, to the two godlike entities it was simply a loving embrace between two lovers having longed to hold and touch one another.
It'd been a year since they'd last truly been together, or at least from Clark's prospective, and it was all his fault. The year he spent depowered, because of Vandal Savage mutating his DNA to power his ship, Clark ended up pushing everyone away. He was afraid of his powerlessness and how he couldn't still be the Superman the world needed. Most of all he couldn't bare the fact that his weakness could hurt Diana.
The "break up" was all from his increasing insecurities at the whole world knowing of his true identity at the same as he lost most of his powers. He honestly never stopped loving Diana and by the time he had gotten over his issues and regained his powers, he didn't know how to get her back. Before he could even try to apologize and get back together with Diana, Grail and the Anti Monitor showed up. Then he got corrupted by Apocalypse's fire pits-the final nail in his coffin-and ended up facing his mortality.
Sure, they got back together for that final day, which ended up being overshadowed by the existence of other Supermen. All he wanted was more time to just be with her. Holding hands while they flew or the kiss they are currently sharing. God he feels like such a fool for having pushed Diana away when he was vulnerable and weak. She never cared about his physical strength, it was bonus for sure, but it was his strength of heart and character that she loved. His Pa would have given him stern talking to about letting in the woman you love, especially when you're feeling vulnerable. His Ma on the other hand would have smacked him upside his head for being a daft fool, and then hugged him before sending him off to go fix the mess he made. Man, does he miss them.
All of those thoughts swirled around for just a few seconds before giving way to the pure passion and love pouring into him from Diana's lips. His grip grew tighter as he deepened the kiss, one hand on the small of her lower back and the other drifting to the nape of her neck, not wanting to ever let Diana ago. He will never make that mistake again.
After several minutes, they separated from each other's mouths to gently lean their foreheads against one another. Their eyes gazing deeply into each other, sharing unspoken feelings and desires as Diana caught her breath. A few more moments like that past before they moved back, only their hands keeping them together. Both of them are fearful that once they let go the other will disappear.
Diana is the first to speak, "You're really here. Alive.", joy erupting from her voice. Diana's last memory before finding herself in this void was of Clark dying from kryptonite poisoning. Her letting him go off into the afterlife to be free of his pain and to be reunited with his parents. While she had stared down at the pile of ashes that had once been the man she loves, Diana thought she'd never see him again. Yet, mere moments after, she found him standing with his back to her.
For a fraction of a second she thought she was being tricked by any number of her enemies or even members of her extended family. Gods can be very petty and cruel at times, and there are several that'd do this just to mock her or get a laugh at her expense. But, somehow, deep within her heart, her very soul, she knew that this was real-that he is real. That's why she rushed towards him as quickly as she could. A fear that he'd disappear if she didn't grab hold of him with all the might in her body and all the love in her heart.
The year the were apart, or as most say "broken up", she had missed being with him. She understood that Clark needed time to adjust to the unveiling of his secret identity and loss of most of his powers. That he was pushing everyone away out of fear and insecurity, but she believed that he'd one day find his way back to himself and her. But tragically fate had decided to take him just as they found their way back to each other. That's why, regardless of their current situation, she's just overjoyed that he's alive and well. It's as if some god heard their dying wish for more time and granted it...with a few strings attached.
Clark responds with uncertainty but with equal joy, "Yes I'm alive. Or at least I think I am.", taking a moment to swivel his head around, "Considering the landscape I can't in good conscience say that I'm-we're still alive."
Clark's words snap Diana out of her daze, getting her to release her grip on him and look around. Getting a puzzled look about her, Diana asks, "Where are we? This doesn't seem like any afterlife I've every heard of before. And I've actually been to Tartarus."
Clark adds, "Lets not forget that I was the one to die, not you. So it can't be the afterlife. Unless you...", not wanting to say it.
Diana shakes her head, "I did not parish before arriving here."
"What happened to you before getting here?"
"Nothing. You had just been reduced to ash and your older counterpart left...then I was here."
Clark ponders on this for a moment before theorizing, "Perhaps the world ended in a sudden explosion or you were attacked from behind. Killing you instantly."
Diana replies, "I highly doubt that. My divine blood and status as the God of War wouldn't allow anything other than another being with divine blood to kill me...well permanently. At the very least, if it was an attack by another god, I'd have felt something. Pain, heat, cold, or anything that'd have indicated my life being stolen."
Clark responds, "But I did die before getting here. We both know that to be true. So what's going on here? Have you died and simply can't remember it happening? Or have I been brought back to life and sent here with you?"
"The question we should be asking is why this is happening and who is behind it.", Diana countered.
"I granted you your wish for more time while selfishly doing what I wanted.", The Presence answered from behind them.
The two superheroes quickly turn towards the new comer, their stances shifted towards defending themselves. Whatever just appeared out of nowhere did so without either one of them noticing. Not an easy feat to say the least. They are both surprised to see two elderly gentlemen, one that seemed to have stepped out of high society in the 1920s and the other seems just like an ordinary old man. Despite their ordinary appearances, both Superman's heightened senses and Diana's divine blood/highly honed senses scream out at them. Their instincts are telling them that even if all the most powerful entities they've ever faced before were to combine, it still wouldn't match even one ounce of these beings' individual power.
Yet, even knowing that they'd not stand a chance if these two entities chose to attack them, neither one of them lowered their guard. They've faced similar odds before and even if these two older men-not that they believe for a single moment that's what they really are-are beyond their comprehension, they'll still fight together till the bitter end.
In the nanoseconds that the two heroes process all this, The Presence' words filter into their minds. These powerful entities are the ones that brought them here and supposedly to give them more time together. Focusing on the other part of the gentleman's words, Superman asks, "What selfish thing do you get by granting our wish?", his eyes narrowing in suspicion.
Superman's dealt with god like beings before and they tend not to care about lower beings like himself. Like several 5th dimensional beings he's meet as they toyed around with all of his dimension's reality for kicks and giggles. Or for some complex murder plot amongst their own that just so happens to spill into the 3rd dimension.
One Above All chuckles out, "Not only does this Superman move fast, but he thinks fast too. I like him. He's not as naïve as his other counterparts. It'll be a blast to add him to my universe."
That gets Superman to raise his brow in confusion while Diana intercedes, "How typical of gods. Playing around with our lives for their amusement. But don't think we'll just play along in your twisted games-"
Seeing the misunderstanding raising, along with Wonder Woman's rage, The Presence quickly raises his hands in a calming fashion as he explains, "Relax. We're not like the gods you're use to dealing with-"
One Above All cuts in, "We're not nearly as weak as they are.", getting both Superman and Wonder Woman to stiffen up even more.
"You're not helping this situation by saying things like that.", The Presence chastised.
One Above All shrugs his shoulder while lazily commenting, "What? It's the truth."
Superman cuts in, "I don't want to be rude and interrupt you two, but we are little lost and could use an explanation. You know, before this misunderstanding can escalate any further."
The Presence responds kindly, "Yes, of course young man. You are right. Forgive my colleague's outburst, but he is correct. We are much more than the gods and other dimensional entities you've met before. I'm actually the one that created all of them, the two of you, and pretty much everything there is."
Shocked expressions flash across both Clark and Diana's faces as they realize what this being is. Voicing that thought, Diana asks, "Are you saying that you are the creator of all things? The Alpha and Omega of creation that birthed all of existence?"
One Above All corrects her, "Actually he's one of them. The Great Evil Beast is your realities Omega and The Presence is your Alpha. But that's just in his bubble of creation. I have my own that is simply better in just about every regard."
Taking control of the situation before the two creations before him can get lost, The Presence explains everything. His existence, the influence of what he calls The Outer, One Above All and the infinite creation that goes beyond the multiverse, the situation involving their prime universe and Dr. Manhattan's actions, what was going to happen to them and their universe, and how he decided to intercede on their behalf. Further explaining how they'll be incorporated into one of One Above All's universe. He laid it all out on the table for them to make an informed decision on how they want to proceed.
For Clark and Diana it was a mind-boggling explanation, but with all their experience time traveling and dimension hopping it wasn't too hard to adjust. They're both concerned with the fate awaiting of their world, friends, and families. Taking solace in the fact that they'll make it through and eventually win with their counterparts help. The part that really gets them was the fact that Clark was going to be entirely erased and Diana's experiences with him were going to be made into false memories. Not just her relationship with Clark, but all the experiences she had with her mother, her home, and the Olympian pantheon.
As their creator, The Presence, explained they're histories are going to be rewritten in a new universe by One Above All. Which begs the question: Are they better off doing this? Diana and Clark spend several minutes discussing that very issue privately. Or at least the appearance of private, seeing as the two omniscient beings probably know what they said even before they started talking.
They came to the conclusion that even though in both circumstances they are altered, at least in One Above All's universe they'd retain their memories and experiences. That the new past they'd have wouldn't seem like fake memories or simple additions because they'd be living those lives first. That they'd live their new lives from birth until their bodies matured enough to receive the increase in power. Which makes perfect sense because it'd be odd and exceptionally dangerous to have all the abilities they have now-minus Diana's gifts from being the God of War-in their infant/child bodies. They'll live new lives with all their current memories sealed away, a vague sense of something missing will always be present in the back of their minds. But eventually when their bodies are ready, their past experiences and current powers will be awoken.
It's a win-win for Clark seeing as he was going to cease to exist in the first place, so he's on board. Diana on the other hand would have kept on living and could have helped out in the ongoing threat facing their reality. Now a copy of herself has taken her place and if she doesn't take this offered deal she'll simply be erased from existence. That doesn't leave her with much of an option, but at least by agreeing she'll eventually get to be reunited with Clark. There'll be a lot of unknowns they'll both have to face in this new bubble of reality, but they know they can handle anything thrown their way, together.
Having made their decision they both return to face the Gods that are above all others and answer, "We agree to your proposal."
Diana adding on, "Not that we had much of a choice in the matter."
The Presence replies, "I know Diana that you feel like you don't have a choice, and that may very well be true, but at least this way you get to maintain who you are."
Diana fires back, "I doubt that to be entirely true Presence. If we're going to live new lives, that One Above All already stated was going to be different, we'll be changed as well."
"Diana does make a valid.", Clark chimes in with a bit of worry on his face.
One Above All clarifies, "Perhaps there is some truth to that, but only at first, before your true selves awaken. You'll carry the new views of your new lives but have the ability to decide if those experiences have any impact in your decisions. It'll be like having lived a past life simultaneously with what you've already experienced."
The Presence adds, "Who you are now will be fully realized upon awakening. It'll be like suddenly appearing in a new world but with true life experiences from that world. It's the best way to lessen the confusion and shorten the learning curve in living in this new world."
One Above All cuts in, "This new life will be real to you, but secondary to the lives you've both already lived. From your prospective it'll be like no time will have past from this moment to the moment when you two awaken in your bodies. And yes, they'll be your bodies, just younger than you are now...well at least for Superman that is."
Diana narrows her eyes dangerously as she demands, "I knew you two were lying about something. You'd best explain what you mean by that now before I decide to stop being passive."
Clark joins Diana, "What are you going to be doing to her?", his fists tightening to the point that coals would turn to diamonds from just the pressure.
One Above All explains, not an ounce of concern in his voice-why should he be, he can just wipe them from existence with a mere thought, "Come on Wonder Woman, you have to admit that the whole raiding ships and murdering men for children is too unlike Amazonian ideals. Not to forget tossing the male babies from a cliff into the sea and/or selling them to Hephaestus for weapons and armor. Don't you find all that being against all the love and perfect society that your people preach about."
Diana looks away in shame, not just from the gods but Clark as well. The look on his face is abhorrent, having just heard these facts for the first time. It was too horrible to even mention out loud, even after getting rid of those repugnant practices. Honestly, Diana has always wondered how her mother and sisters could do such awful things. Seeing as they've always warned her about the evils of man's world. Telling her about men doing similar things to women and each other. The hypocrisy of condemning man while stating that they are better in everyway even though they were committing acts just as vile. Diana could never fully wrap her head around it.
Finally giving voice to her thoughts, "Yes. I've always found the hypocrisy of Themyscira strange. I just figured that even we Amazons can be just as flawed as anyone else."
The Presence decides to take up the explanation, "You see Diana, the Amazons origins were different than you remember. They were much more noble and loving than that-though with some fears and bias about man, but the influences of Dr. Manhattan and the Outer changed that."
Diana asks, "Then what were they really like? Am I still going to be related to Zeus?"
The Presence looks towards One Above All as he says, "I think you should give them the basic rundown of how different their lives are going to be. It's only fair."
One Above All huffs a bit in annoyance, not liking the surprise being ruined, but relents, "Fine. I will start with Diana seeing as her life is going to be vastly different."
"Please do.", Diana responds.
One Above All starts, "The Amazons are going to be similar to what The Presence originally envisioned, but with my own twists. They are going to be created by Artemis, Demeter, Hera, and Aphrodite from the souls of women who had died at the hands of men, given new and stronger bodies made from clay transformed into flesh and blood. They were created to bring love and peace to man while freeing women being repressed and victimized by man's rule. Eventually, after a century of success in their mission, were held in bondage by Ares and subjected to all the horrible cruelties you can think of.", seeing the grim nod from Diana confirming that she knows exactly what he means.
One Above All continues, "Ares waited after Hercules confronted your mother Hippolyta to secure her armored belt-that was gifted to her by Aphrodite-as apart of his heroic labors. His plan was to challenge her to one-on-one combat for it. Unfortunately Hera in her continued attempts at killing Hercules for being another of Zeus' bastard offspring transformed into an Amazon and convinced Hippolyta that he came to wage war."
Diana commenting, "I know of Hera's cruelty towards Zeus' children sired by other women first hand. Yet I find it difficult that my mother would find one man on a ship as a real threat of war."
One Above All further explains, "Let me finish and you'll know. Now, lets see...Oh yes. Seeing a fleet of warships sailing towards her shores-that were only there due to a powerful storm sinking his ship and that fleet belonging to his friend Theseus that came across him and agreed to give him a lift-she attacked with all the Amazon's might. In that battle Hercules ended up wounding Hippolyta gravely, only being saved by her sister Antiope, and stealing her belt before fleeing."
"Wait. I have an Aunt?", Diana interrupted with shock.
"You do now. And what did I say about letting me finish?"
"Sorry. Please continue. I will not interrupt you again."
One Above huffs out before continuing, "Gees. Where was I...Ah! Even though Hercules and Theseus fled the casualties we're still fairly high on both sides, but your Amazonian sister were cheering at successfully repelling their enemy. That was when Ares chose to attack. His forces seeming to come out of nowhere as they mercilessly crushed Hippolyta's weakened forces. He ended up conquering all Amazonian territory and enslaving all your sisters. Even forcing an unwanted child upon your mother, a son that she'd later kill during their revolution.", pausing a moment to see Diana's conflicted look at apparently having a half brother killed by her mother.
Choosing to help ease her conscious One Above All clarifies, "He was a grown man cutting down dozens of Amazons when Hippolyta killed him.", bring a small measure of relief to Diana, "They were freed from their bondage with the Gods' help on the condition that once they successfully secured their freedom they would leave the world of man without seeking revenge on Ares-who was to be spared seeing as he was still needed by the Olympian pantheon. They received Themyscira in exchange, a place where they could be free of the corruption of a man-dominated world and where they would remain eternally youthful. The Magic Sphere surrounding it protects and keeps Themyscira hidden from the world."
One Above All continues, "Hippolyta's sister Antiope ignored the Gods' condition and launched an attack with nearly half of the remaining amazons against Ares decades later. Antiope died at Ares hands and the amazons that followed her were denied reentry into Themyscira by the Gods as punishment. Lacking the immortality of those on Themyscira, they formed the hidden nation of Bana-Mighdall in Egypt, severing their pantheons in exchange for their immortality. They'd fight in the name of the Heliopolitans, mostly for Ra, Geb, Horus, and Isis for over a thousand years."
One Above All pausing in thought for a moment, as if he's still pondering what he's creating before continuing, "One day Circe found the Bana Amazons after just losing their Egyptian city to Seth as he used their hidden city to seal his fellow gods as apart of his coup. Having been given a prophecy that the Amazons would be her downfall, Circe used the Bana to attack the rest of the Amazons by teleporting them to Themyscira. Then by ensnaring their minds with her magic made their sisters living on Themyscira appear as Ares men that once held them in bondage.
"Artemis was the only one able to break out of Circe's spell due to the power of the Bow of Ra she wielded-still having the bow that she earned from the Egyptian god Ra as the Bana-Mighdall's Champion. While unable to get her fellow Bana Amazons to break free of Circe's spell, Artemis went to find Hippolyta during the attack. She obviously was meet with violence seeing as her sisters were attacking and killing Hippolyta's Amazons. Artemis quickly threw down her weapons and fell to the ground in submission-an act no Amazon willing does-to prove her peaceful intentions. Once explaining how Circe was behind the attack and her Amazon sister are under her spell, Hippolyta agreed to try and subdue the Bana without killing them."
"Hippolyta had you and Artemis find and capture Circe while she held the Bana tribe at bay, trying to lower the casualties. The two of you were able to bring down Circe and undo her spell to reveal her trickery and plan to kill them all by opening the gate of Tartarus to unleash an army of demons to attack them while they were weakened."
"After the fight ended Circe's head was removed from her shoulders by Artemis for her trickery and the resulting death of her sisters-the Bana queen having died previously trying to stop Seth from sealing the Heliopotians inside the pyramid on Bana-Mighdall. Circe had failed to realize that receiving the prophecy had been what caused her to be the architect of her own demise. With the loss of life on both sides Hippolyta offered to take in the remaining Bana into Themyscira to help replenish their numbers. The Bana happily accept Hippolyta's offer, having been in need of a new home and without the blessing of the Egyptian Pantheons they'd age and die outside of Themyscira."
One Above All finishes, "Diana, you'll be a thousand or so years older but you will enter man's world around the same time as before. Just different people and places is all. You are still born from Zeus impregnating your mother and her spinning the tale that you were formed from clay blessed by Zeus. Your past will be vastly different than you've experienced but I think it'll be for the best.", his tone bit disappointed from revealing her new life so early. She ruined the surprise, well not all of them.
Diana asks for clarification, "And the practices of baring children?"
One Above All answers, "They typically don't but when the Amazons numbers become too low they'll under go the Trail of Motherhood. A series of challenges and bouts to decide who amongst them will earn the right to sculpt daughters made from clay that'll be turned to flesh and blood by Artemis, Demeter, Hera, and Aphrodite."
Diana takes a moment to think it over, finding that version of her people sounds more like what she was taught about Amazons, and replies, "I find those changes acceptable."
The Presence speaks up, "Now to explain your changes to Superman's past."
One Above All huffs, "Aren't you the impatient one...Fine, fine. Krypton's past is going to be exactly the same as it was in your universe. Most of your life is actually going to be the same. I like it the way it is, but a few necessary changes are going to have to be made. Such as, the lack the 5th dimensional beings that messed with you don't exist in my bubble of reality. Thus your parents didn't die in that car accident and the events orchestrated by Nyxlygsptlnz didn't happen."
"Does t-that mean my p-parents are still alive", Clark hopefully asked.
One Above All actually feels bad about having to dash Clark's hopes a bit, "Yes...No...Your father died of a heart attack when you were 18. Your mother will still be alive and well, maintaining the family farm and being there when you need her. You frequently head home to help her plow fields, tend crops, make repairs, and harvest crops. That and stuff yourself with her famous apple pie."
Clark has a downcast look cross his face before breaking out into a smile. His fathers death is still hard on him but at least he now has his mother back. The overwhelming joy from getting to see her again practically radiates off him in waves. The worlds strongest man is without a doubt a mama's boy and that brings a smile to Diana's face.
Diana speaks up, "I can't wait to meet her."
The smile on Clark's face nearly splits his face in two as he responds, "And I can't wait to introduce you to her. I know she'll love you."
"Oh? Your sure she won't be upset at me stealing her baby boy that's clearly still attached to her bosom?", Diana jests.
"I'm not that bad...but I will concede that I really love my Ma.", Clark chuckles back, "When meeting her just don't under estimate her strength and wait until we're married to ask for her apple pie recipe. That's the only way she'll part with it. Trust me, I've tried for years to wrestle it away from her to no avail. She's more stubborn than Bruce can be at times."
Diana gives off a proud smile as she replies, "It seems your mother's will matches any Amazon's and I'll be honored to call her sister. But your prospect of marriage is what peaks my interest and garners most of my attention Kal. Do you really wish to become my life partner for the rest our lives? To be sworn to each other and no other?"
Clark's tone is serious and full of love, "Are you kidding? I had been holding on to my mother's ring for over a year waiting for the right moment. If it wasn't for the issues that arose with Savage's plot, I would have already proposed to you. And if I had it on me right now-"
Diana cuts him off, "I know.", she grasps his hands, "And I would have said yes...under the condition that the ceremony is done by Amazonian customs. Man's marriage system is too arcane and feels more like a binding contract that sells a daughter to a man."
Clark responds, "Our marriage system has vastly improved since it was conceived under the guise of forming unions between kingdoms. The marriage my parents had was perfect in my eyes, but my Ma would be the first to scold me about not respecting my love's customs and wishes. That if I truly love her-as I do you-it won't matter how we're married, just that we are. And that's why I'd be honored to marry you under Amazonian custom."
Diana replies, "Smart choice my love. Your mother's wisdom is truly inspiring and makes me more enthused to meet her in person."
The Presence coughs to get their attention and focus on the task at hand, getting Diana to say, "But that's something we'll get to later."
Clark apologizes for straying off topic and asks, "Are those the only changes to my life?"
"Nope. After spending time with your mother for a bit you go on a journey of self discovery. Traveling around and learning about the bigger world outside of Smallville. Meeting interesting people, saving people in need, and finding your passion in being a hero. It's mostly small stuff like saving people trapped in fires, being robbed, drowning, and getting hit by a cars. The most extraordinary thing you did at the end of your two year sojourn is holding up a burning oil refinery out at sea. Holding up hundreds of tons of burning metal to give the rescue chopper enough time to lift the rig's crew to safety."
That surprises Clark, "Really? Back when I first started out I had hard enough time tossing a tank. Let alone an entire oil refinery-it's something I can do with one hand now, but back then I'd have pushed past my limits."
"Well, you only held it for a few minutes before it collapsed on top of you in a fiery explosion. You washed up on shore hours later, battered, bruised, and little bit bloody but otherwise fine. That's when you decided to return home before heading off to college and getting your Masters in journalism. Most of your Zero year is the same in Metropolis, including your humorous attempt at trying to stop a hurricane headed to Gotham."
Both Diana and Clark shoat out in surprise, "Gotham?!"
The Presence reminds them, "Yes. I told you that several other parts of your universe was dragged along for the ride."
One Above All adds, "And before you ask, no. The Bruce Wayne/Batman you know won't be there. Not enough of him-or the copy of him-came along for the ride. What else came and how different they'll be is something you'll have to find out for yourselves once getting in my universe. Now enough explanations. Lets move this along already. I got a lot of work ahead of me."
"Impatient youngster.", The Presence comments just loud enough to be heard by everyone there.
"Stubborn old fossil.", One Above All huffs back.
Diana and Clark share an amused look with each other, actually feeling relieved that these two ultimate entities can be playful and show levity. That they can be down to earth and familiar even though they are the most powerful entities in existence-that they know of.
The Presence shifts his focus to his creations, "Are you two ready? It maybe a while before you see each other again."
Clark adds on the thought that it could be years before the meet again, "I'm prepared to wait as long as it takes to be with Diana again. Even if I must wait a thousand lifetimes.", griping her hands tightly while gazing through her eyes, straight into her very soul.
Diana returns his look while responding, "As am I my love."
Another thought pops into Clark's head connected to their previous talk about marriage, bring up a problem they'll face once reuniting, "Wait. How should we react once meeting again?"
Diana just give Clark a bemused look before answering, "I think along the lines of an intimate embrace like this...", gently gliding her hands over his arms, tracing his muscles and swooping around his broad shoulders and linking them behind his sturdy neck. Her supple lips capturing his own in a breath taking kiss.
When she pulls back, with only the bare minimal of space separating them, Clark's eyes are glazed over with desire for well over minute. That brings a satisfied smile to her lips, knowing how easily she can capture his entire attention.
Once he gets over Diana's overpowering nature, he replies softly, "Of course there'll be plenty of that, and more if I can help it. But that's only when we're alone. What are we to do when we meet each other for the first time in front of others? I'm fairly certain it'd confuse and shock people if we just start making out after just meeting."
Diana replies, "I've never been one to care much about what others think about my love life Kal.", she sighs though as she releases her grip around his neck, "But you are correct. It'd bring a lot of unwanted suspicion our way. Our attraction to one another can be naturally explained by our appearances and the natural appeal one has in another's looks. But instantly showing physical affection towards each other would be out of place in normal situations."
"I know you hated hiding our relationship from the world but it looks like we'll have to hide again in this new world. At least until we start dating publicly and build up the appearance of forming a relationship for the first time. While behind closed doors we can simply be together.", Clark suggested.
Diana doesn't like the idea, Amazons are proud about their relationships, even celebrating them. But the Warrior in her understands the need to blend into an unfamiliar environment to avoid becoming prey to it's hidden predators. Thinking along the lines of having to protect the secret that they aren't from that universe Diana mentions, "Even if we keep it hidden through our actions, there are psychics that could simply read our minds. Or at least there might be?"
One Above All cuts in, "Yes, there are physics in the Earth your going to, but that won't be a problem. I'll put a block in your minds so that nothing other than myself can access the memories of your original lives. As for hiding your love for each other, just lie and say you've met before. Outside of those on Themyscira no one could prove otherwise."
The Presence interjects, "Or you could arrange for them to meet earlier so they wouldn't have lie about it."
Before either Diana or Clark could voice their opinions on the matter, One Above All left the Orb of creation while dragging The Presence along for the ride. Clark and Diana instantly go into a state of suspended existence as the two infinite beings left. The Presence' breaks contact with orb-their main forms having never moved-from One Above All's forceful rejection of him from the orb.
One Above All is already moving towards his drafting table, getting The Presence to yell out, "Hey! What was that for? And where are you going?"
One Above All simply replies, "To finish my work. Thank you for the gift. Now please leave me in peace. You know what will happen if I have to force you out. Let's avoid that fiasco from happening again. Once was more than enough."
The Presence realizes what he did wrong. He's been pushing One Above All to do everything he wants at the expense of One Above All's plans for his universe. No entity like themselves like outsiders making demands of their creation. Like an artist, they need the freedom to express their creativity and be left alone to work. One Above All has kept his end of the deal and has no need to keep placating them. He's honestly been very relaxed so far in this whole affair. Best stop pushing his luck and go.
"You're right. Sorry for overstaying my welcome and thank you.", The Presence leaves him to his work.
One Above All glances back from the corner of his eyes, seeing The Presence leave in a flash of pure light. It might be selfish of him, but One Above All doesn't feel the need to keep explaining his plans to others. Normally Superman and Wonder Woman would be like every other entity out their and not know of him. They'd be wiped clean and he'd just put them into his universe if not for The Presence' demands on the matter. If they got to hid how much they know and love each other for a little bit, than tuff. They're getting a lot in exchange.
With that One Above All turns the orb into sheets of paper and starts working on integrating The Presence' gift into his reality. Regardless of how demanding The Presence was and the annoyances by Diana and Clark Kent, he's very enthused to get to work. For so long the two of them had been competing over who's creation is better. Even having a few crossover events where their respective creations fight each other. Now he'll prove how much better he is by using The Presence' own creations better than he can.
Now the fun begins.
Earth-199999. 1407 Graymalkin Lane, Salem Center, Winchester, New York, 2008
Charles Xavier(Patrick Stewart) is currently hooked up to Cerebro searching of any new mutant out there, yet again. It has become a repetitive daily routine for Xavier over the past decade. The reason for this routine is due to the crushing fact that mutants are going extinct. It's not due to some attack or genocidal campaign being wage against them. There simply aren't anymore mutants being born in the world at large.
After defeating Apocalypse and saving the world it seemed like mutants were finally being accepted in society. The X-men were gaining increased popularity amongst the American people and even support within it's government. Charles' school was brimming with new students to the point that he had considered expanding the school's buildings. Yet over the past twenty years there have been fewer and fewer mutants born into the world. It has gotten so bad that there hasn't been a single new mutant born in over eight years. Most scientist are saying that the X-gene was just an anomalous mutation in the human genome that saw a temporary increase due to excess nuclear radiation in our environment. Most likely caused by the nuclear arms race and the resounding nuclear weapons test from the Cold War era.
The politicians and news outlets have simply gone to referring to Mutants as being "God's mistake." Charles has refuted their theories and slander nonstop since they started. But as he once again scans every nook and cranny of the world for a new mutant, he is starting to lose faith. His school is practically empty in comparison to what it once was. The dorms are only a third full and the classrooms are depressingly bare of young eager minds that once filled his halls. A meager twenty-seven students are currently enrolled where there use to be 182.
As his physic scan goes over the one and only place in the world where mutants are still being born, Avalon, he feels a little bit of hope for mutant kind. Avalon is an island located in international waters within the Pacific Ocean. It's a paradise for mutants free of the world's laws and interference. It was founded by Eric Lehnsherr, or better known as Magneto to the world, after helping save the world from Apocalypse. As apart of his deal with the U.S. government and the U.N. he was pardoned for all his pervious crimes in exchange for never stepping foot in any sovereign country's territory again.
With nowhere left to go Eric found an undiscovered island in the Pacific outside the control of any nation and named it Avalon. With Charles help world spread about the Avalon being a safe refuge for all mutants not wanting to be apart of the world. Within a decade hundreds of mutants fleeing discrimination or too untrusting of the world's governments filled the island and built a home. With the bountiful soil, fresh water streams, and mutant abilities they are completely self-sufficient. Not to mention the technological security enhance by super powered mutant soldiers to ensure the other nations of the world keep their distance.
At first Charles and Eric had several heated debates about militarizing Avalon being seen as threatening to humanity. Eric still holding a deep mistrust of human governments and organizations from his time spent under Nazi rule. Often stating that he's just preparing for when humans try to attack Avalon and that he no longer looks to wage war on humanity. Which was proven right when several unidentifiable organizations attempted to kidnap mutants and try to capture Avalon.
One of which referred to itself as the Purifiers that see mutants as unholy creatures that need to be cleansed from the world. Officially the U.S. government and UN declared the Purifiers as a terrorist organization and publically condemn their actions. Unofficially several black op groups and politicians within various governments have been secretly funding the Purifiers. Though the Purifiers are practically non existent after their failed full scale assault on Avalon, small groups of them are still active throughout the world. Magneto and his security forces showed no mercy to the invaders and wiped them out to the last man.
The whole world saw footage of an entire army of naval ships, air forces, and thousands of armed terrorists being slaughtered by several dozen mutants. Since that display and vocal threat that any and all invaders would be met with the same fate as the Purifiers, none have attempted such an action against Avalon. Sure there is the occasional spy and infiltration team sneaking onto Avalon. Usually being caught quickly while attempting to assassinate Eric or kidnap young mutant children. The individuals tend to commit suicide before Eric's physics can find out who they work for.
It hasn't gone unnoticed that mutant birth rates are still going strong on Avalon while they've dropped off completely in the rest of the world. At first Charles thought Eric might be behind it, but quickly squashed that thought. Eric even at his most radical might have been willing to kill a few mutants that got in his way, but he'd never do anything to threaten all of mutant kind deliberately. Eric has spoken to Charles, through Cerebro on his growing concerns with the lowering birth rates of mutants in the world. Repeatedly trying to convince him that humans are somehow behind it and that Charles and his students should come to Avalon for their own safety.
Charles refuses to give up on uniting mutants and humans, thus turning Eric down while dismissing his theories. At least on the surface. Charles reached out to Raven-aka Mystique(Jennifer Lawrence)-as a deputy director of SHIELD and head of their mutant X-force. Raven stopped leading the X-men and left to join SHIELD after the incident with Jean(Famke Janssen) and the Hellfire Club. He can't blame Raven for leaving after Scott's death and the quick reversal of public opinion. Jason Wyngarde-aka Mastermind, the mutant raised by the Hellfire Club's Inner Council-various U.S. politicians, millionaires, billionaires, military advisors, and corporate owners-had been secretly altering Jean's mind with an illusionary life in colonial America. Eventually changing her onto the Black Queen in the Council's attempt to take control of Jean and use her to enslave all mutants.
Jean is the most powerful mutant in the world and while under their sway she crushed the X-men singlehandedly(No she does not have the Phoenix Force yet). Scott tried using the physic connection Jean made with him to break Mastermind's influence on her and awaken her true self. During this struggle Mastermind killed Scott, snapping Jean out of his illusion and sending her into uncontrollable fury. In a single moment of physic rage, Jean completely obliterated the Hellfire Club and all of it's members at the loss the man she loved. She would have killed the X-men to if it wasn't for both Kurt and Quicksilver getting them out in the nick of time.
The authorities and several factions of the government quickly turned on the X-men, ignoring the fact that several of their own were the ones behind the whole incident. News outlets owned by several Hellfire members started throwing out stories about the X-men attacking and killing American patriots in an attempt to take control of the government. An ironic twist considering that's what the Hellfire Club had been doing for over a century. It was only proven otherwise when the new SHIELD director Nickolas Fury went to the President of United States and showed him undeniable proof that the X-men were innocent. Even proving that various members of the President's own staff were involved and actively helping his opposition, Robert Kelly to win the upcoming election.
Raven ended up coming to the conclusion that the only way to ensure mutant's safety was to integrate into the power structures that make up America. That the only way to ensure mutant's right are protected just like any human, they'd need to be apart of all aspect of society. Not just sitting on the sidelines ands helping out until the powers that be decide that they'll let them in. She went into the military sector under SHIELD that proved it's unbiased view of mutants. Hank McCoy-aka Beast(Nicholas Hoult) followed after her. That wasn't a surprise seeing as they had been together for years and are now married.
Though, Hank originally went into the private sector and started up his own tech/biochemical company, Mutanixs Biotech Incorporated, or MBI. Using his scientific prowess in both technological development and biochemistry he developed a multitude of non-lethal weaponry for capturing criminal mutants. All of which were meant solely for all police forces in America. Along with building the Raft prison on Rikers Island to properly house said super powered criminals. It was a large point of contention between Charles and Hank for years, Charles seeing it as a betrayal to mutants. Hank defended his actions by explaining that as long as there are criminal mutants hurting people and needing the X-men to handle them, then the world at large will always fear them. That once people felt safe with mutants living besides them would mutant kind finally be accepted in society.
Even though Hank's company was a large success and beyond the weapons, prison, and medicines he created for use on mutants, his company created many technologies and medicines for everybody. Hank has improved spaceship and exploration technology for NASA. All of SHIELD's modern Quinjets were designed by MBI and made to withstand any environment, from outer space to the sea floor. The best medicinal drugs on the market are designed by MBI for everything from migraine tablets to the newest Alzheimer's medication.
Eventually his success made him, and by extension mutants, so popular that he entered the political sector and secured a seat as the governor of New York. He's looking to become a senator in the next election cycle, but with the decrease in mutant population his odds aren't looking as good. After all, why should a dying out species need representation in the Senate.
As it turned out, Raven had already been looking into the drop in mutant birth rates, sharing Eric's belief that someone is behind it. The last update she gave him involved her investigating Essex Corp-the largest food and beverage company in the world, having already devoured Anheuser-Busch InBev, JBS and Tyson Foods. It's the least suspect company in the world with all of it's Feed the Hungry charities that have feed millions of starving people worldwide.
Charles hopes Raven is wrong on this one because Essex is a powerhouse corporation with not just U.S. political backing but multinational support. Hell, Essex Corp produces most of the food grown throughout the world and no nation wants to be on their bad side. It'd be a monumental undertaking to bring them down even with iron-clad proof. He can't even imagine taking them on without any solid evidence.
Pushing the negative thoughts from his mind and refocusing on the task at hand, finding a new mutant. After another wasted hour of looking Charles is about to call it a bust when it practically flares into existence. A newly discovered mutant right here in America of all places. She's young, maybe eight years old, and afraid of all the new voices inside her head. Her name is Susie Thompkins and she's starting to wonder if she's going crazy, not realizing that those voice are inside other people's heads. A very familiar feeling for him. He's got her... Metropolis, Delaware along the coast.
Charles can feel her tiny heart pounding away as her fear becomes palpable. Focusing his considerable mind, Charles blocks out all the other wandering thoughts Susie is hearing and makes his presence known to her, {Calm down Susie. You're not going crazy.}
All the way in Metropolis an eight year old little girl with auburn hair tied back into a ponytail lets out an audible eep. Falling out of her chair in front of her mirror from surprise. Getting her to quickly start looking around fearfully and whispering, "W-who's there?"
{I'm Charles Xavier. The headmaster of Xavier's school for gifted youngsters. You can call me professor Xavier. And you Susie are a very gifted young lady.}, Charles answered physically.
"Where are you? I-I don't see anyone.", the little lady peeking out over her dresser for him.
Charles answers, {I'm in my home all the way in Winchester New York. And before you ask, I'm not an imaginary voice in your head. None of the voices you have been hearing are imaginary Susie. They're voices from inside other people's heads. Your like me Susie. A physic. More specifically a mutant with physic powers.}
Susie replies curiously, "A mutant? Like the X-men? But my teacher says mutants aren't born anymore. How can I be one?"
{Your teacher is wrong Susie. Mutants are still being born, just not as many as there use to be. You are the rare and beautiful proof that their is still hope for mutants in this world.}
"I am? But the church people that my mommy takes me to says mutants are God's mistake and are being cleansed by his will."
{Yes you are a mutant Susie and don't let anyone make you think that being mutant is a bad thing. We are not a mistake that needs to be cleansed Susie. There are just some mean people in the world that don't like us and are trying to get rid of mutants.}, Charles not liking that this little girl is already being feed Purifier ideology. A terrible reminder that the Purifiers are weakened but not gone.
Susie becomes frightened at the prospect that people may want to hurt her now, "W-why would someone want to hurt me for-"
"Susie! What's all that ruckus you're making young lady? Are you talking to someone up there? I thought I told you no video chats after 6 P.M.", Susie's mother yells out from down stairs.
Susie stutters out, "I-I'm not Skyping mom. I just f-fell out of my c-chair while playing on my phone."
"Your phone time is over now as well so turn it off and get ready for dinner."
"Y-yes mom.", Susie yelled back to her mom.
Charles replies, {You've been speaking out loud all this time Susie when you don't need to. I'm speaking directly into your mind. You just have to think for me to hear you.}
Susie focuses her mind and thinks her reply, {L-like this?}
{Yes. Just like that Susie. And to answer the question you were asking before your mother interrupted you, sometimes people hate what they don't understand. So badly that they try to hurt it, even kill it Susie. But you have nothing to worry about. No one else knows that you are a mutant and I need you to keep it that way.}
Susie responds from inside her head, {I can't tell anyone that I'm a mutant. Not even my mom?}
{You're not to tell anyone until I can get there Susie. Once me and the X-men arrive we'll tell your mother together and try to convince her that'd be for the best if you came to live at my school.}, Charles explained.
{I have to leave. But all my friends are here. And my aunt Lois. And my mom. I don't want to go away. I want to stay here in Metropolis.}, Susie argued back.
Charles replies, {I know it can seem scary to leave home, especially as a child, but it's for everyone's own good. The Purifiers seem to have made their way into Metropolis and they don't have any qualms about killing mutant children. Nor will they care about hurting your friends and family to get to you. For them you need to come here, where you are safe and can learn to control your gifts.}
[They'll hurt my mom? N-no. I-I can keep it secret and learn how to control my powers by myself. I don't need to go away. I can. I can...}, Susie starts getting hysterical, causing the lights to flicker throughout the entire apartment building before the light bulbs burst in showers of sparks and glass.
Causing a panic for all the occupants, that luckily write it off as another of the landlords scummy tricks to force them out. A real estate development company has been offering her a fortune for the land to build high rises, but to do so she needs to evict all the current inhabitants. With renter's laws and city ordinances of Metropolis she can't evict without just cause or raise the rent beyond the current average home value to household income. Maybe if they already lived in condos she could, but this complex is currently built and licensed for working class families.
Charles quickly reacts, {Clam your mind Susie! If you lose control of your powers you'll hurt people and make yourself a target.}, using his own enhanced physic abilities to forcefully calm the young girls mind, {That's it Susie. Clam yourself. Take deep breaths and everything will be okay.}, he should have known better than to be so open with an eight year old girl. Of course she'd panic at the truth about the dangers she faces being a mutant and wouldn't like leaving everyone she knows. But he was so elated to finally find another mutant in the world that it slipped his mind.
Susie calms down with Charles' physic aid and replies, a bit shaken, "W-what just happened?", forgetting to think her response.
{You've just experienced the downside to being a mutant. We don't always know how to control our abilities at first, but I can teach you to control yours.}
{I-I don't want to hurt anyone, but I don't want be taken away from my home. Can't you teach me here?}, Susie replied while starting to get Charles' point.
Professor Xavier explains, {I'm afraid not Susie. You just saw what happens when you lose control. It's safer for everyone if you learn how to control your physic powers in a place away from ordinary people. Plus, as I've previously mentioned there are dangerous people that'd try to hurt you. I can better protect you here in my school than at your house.}
{But I-}
{Listen Susie. It's not like you'll never see your family and friends again. Once you've learned how to fully control your powers you can decide to head home. Plus your mother is more than welcome to come and visit as often as she wants.}
Susie just quietly thinks, Charles can hear her thoughts passing through her head, but refrains from intruding on them. After several moments pass by Susie finally replies, {O-ok. I'll go with but I want to be able to call home as much I want and Skype late into night if I feel like.}
{You have deal. I'm going to be there with the X-men as soon as I can. We can discuss everything in greater detail in person.}
{Ok. See you soon professor.}
Charles disconnects from Cerebro and wheels himself out towards the X-jet while physically ordering the X-men to meet him in the hanger. He has extraordinary news to share with them and wants to do so in person. Watch out Metropolis, here come the X-men and nothing will stop them from bringing in the first new mutant to appear in nearly a decade.
Out at the edges of the Solar system is a foreboding vessel headed towards the Earth on it's continuous mission to preserve civilizations throughout the universe. The Collector of Worlds is headed towards the next doomed world to collect and save it's most advanced city from it's inevitable destruction. Preserving humanity's culture and technologies while also finish collecting a piece of Kryptonian technology that escaped it's notice before. Metropolis will soon join Braniac's collection and hopefully supply it with the desired host it has been scouring the universe for.
I'm currently working on two other stories alongside this one, so it'll be awhile before the next chapter gets written, let alone posted.