Third Person POV
Kaldur led Percy into the depths towards the sunken city. Percy assumed at first that they could just swim directly where they wanted to go, but soon learned that it would be much more annoying.
Apparently there were entry points somewhere on every bubble, a hole in the magic field, and they were all guarded by Atlantean soldiers, who were very particular about who they let in.
It surprised Percy when Kaldur actually had to argue with the guards to allow a surface dweller in. at first Kaldur tired mentioning how he was the son of Poseidon, but the guards just laughed him off. They were dressed in bright armor, that seemed to be forged to look like fish scales, and wielded
Kaldur growled in irritation, "How else do you think he is surviving right now? Do you see a wetsuit? Or gills?"
The guards didn't even blink. The one on the right scoffed, "Metahuman, magic user, genetic augmentation, the surface world has it all these days, but Poseidon having a son? With a surface dweller no less? Get real."
"Did he just insult my mom?" Percy asked, "I know he did not just insult my mom."
Kaldur got up in the guard's face, "He has an invitation from the King. If you do not let us pass, there will be consequences."
The guard however didn't buy it, instead leaning forward and saying, "Prove it."
"I can vouch for them."
The two looked past the guards to see a young man about Kaldur's age. He was wearing a skintight blue uniform that seemed to be right in between the epi nature of Kaldur's suit, and the ridiculousness of Aquaman's suit.
Kaldur brightened upon seeing him. "Garth! My friend! How are you?"
The Atlantean smiled, "I am well, it has been too long. He turned to the guard, "I have a note from King Arthur himself, he figured this might happen" he handed over the note and let the guard read it.
After a moment the guard nodded, and they were let through, where they began to follow the newcomer, Garth, through what appeared to be a campus of some kind.
"Thank you for that." Kaldur spoke up.
"Think nothing of it." Garth waved him off as he swam ahead, before turning bac to glance at Percy, "Our king informed me of the nature of our guest. I can't say I wasn't curious to see for myself. You are Perseus correct?"
Percy nodded, "That's me."
"You are not moving your arms."
He blinked, "What?'
"We are all moving forward, yet your arms and legs do not move."
Percy felt a little self-conscious for some reason, "Yeah… it's a son of Poseidon thing I guess, I just will myself forward. I don't really think about it to be honest."
"I see…"
"How have you been Garth?" Kaldur asked, "Have your studies been going well?"
"They have." Garth answered. Thank you for asking"
"And Tula?"
Percy noticed Garth start at the question. Kaldur didn't. However, he shrugged it off as he noticed the students littering the conservatory. The main thing that interested him in was the fact that some of them looked very much inhuman. Some had mermaid tales like the stories, others had shark heads, or whale bodies with weirdly flexible flippers. It was interesting to say the least and he made mental note to ask Kaldur about it later.
"Why don't you ask her yourself." Garth stated, before pointing ahead of them.
Kaldur glowed when he followed where Garth pointed, and Percy could understand why. A ways below them was what appeared to be a battle between two women. One was obviously older and notably more experienced, while the other was younger but working hard to meet her opponent. Both were breathtakingly beautiful.
The trio swam down to meet them, with Kaldur in the lead, giving a slight bow to the older woman. "Queen Mera!"
The older woman, dressed in a revealing green two piece, and a gold crown, smiled kindly at him, "Kaldur'ahm!"
The younger girl, dressed in a yellow two piece, turned in excitement, "Kaldur!"
She shot towards Kaldur, wrapping him in a big, yet brief hug before pulling away, "It is so good to see you!"
"And you as well!" he assured her.
"I take it this is Perseus?" Mera spoke up, sending a distasteful look towards the god, one that he noticed. Tula on the other hand, seemed to have just noticed the newcomer
He couldn't help but smirk at the queen , "Huh. And how have I pissed you off?' "
Mera's nostril's flared and her hand started to glow a bit before Kaldur sighed and said, "My queen, please forgive his tone, I believe he is honestly asking."
Mera looked between them with narrowed eyes before huffing and saying, "I think it should be obvious: you claim not only to be the son of the sea god, but a god as well!"
Percy stared at her "Yeah. So? I already went over that with the Amazons. I'm not lying. I can swear on the Styx if you want.
"I do not doubt your validity!" She spat, "I question your intention! What's to stop you from claiming ownership over the sea, and my husband's throne to boot?"
"Queen Mera I assure you," Kaldur spoke up, somewhat worriedly, "Perseus is my friend, and means nothing of the sort."
"Yeah I thought this was just going to be a nice dinner to get to know each other." Percy shrugged, "Honestly I don't really care about ruling the sea. It doesn't seem that great a job. As great as it is down here, I prefer living above ground myself."
Mera continued to stare at him, even causing her students to tense up at her sheer aura of scrutiny, but then she smiled, genuinely, "Good then! I will see you at dinner."
She then turned and swam away.
Percy whistled lowly, an impressive feat underwater by the way, "That was a mood swing if I've ever seen one. she pregnant or something?"
A loud scoff of indignation drew his attention to Tula, who was giving him an angry look, before swimming off angrily. Garth sighed and swam after, while Percy raised his hands up at Kaldur in defense, "I was honestly asking."
Kaldur rolled his eyes at his newest friends knack for making first impressions, before shooting off after the two, leaving Percy alone which he found a bit rude.
He followed the trio to find what appeared to be a very awkward conversation, awkward for Garth and Tula that is. Percy had no trouble hearing what they were saying from a distance, as apparently his senses were heightened underwater. It made sense, he never really had a reason to hear long distances underwater, so he gladly accepted it and listened as Kaldur invited Tula to dinner with him. It wasn't hard to figure out that she was the special girl he had been talking about, but Percy wasn't focusing on that.
Instead he was noticing the awkward glances between her and Garth, the uncomfortable shifts, the meaningful look Garth shot her when she accepted. Percy readily admitted he was a bit dense at times but even he could see what was happening there.
He just hoped he could help his friend before h made a fool of himself.
Later
They soon found themselves at the royal palace, seated around a small table with the king, queen. Tula, and the prince. Percy was seated in between Kaldur and Tula, a tactical decision, though he didn't tell Kaldur that. He hadn't had a chance to make his concern known to his friend yet, so he was focusing on playing interference until he could. At that moment he was busy staring at the food in front of him, a lot of which looked delicious, but unidentifiable, when Aquaman spoke up, "So, Perseus—"
"Just Percy is fine," he interrupted, "I prefer it actually."
The king faltered for a moment before smiling and nodding, "Very well, Percy, first I'd like to thank you for accepting our invitation to join us tonight."
"Hey, thank you man, this place is amazing! And thanks for giving me the wheel, my ship anchored above is using it currently."
Aquaman beamed while his brother, Prince Orm, looked confused, "So you sailed here? In a ship? I would think it would have been easier to swim, from what I've heard of your powers."
Percy chuckled, "Yeah it probably would, Kaldur thought it would be better to just teleport, but I've been dying to take the Wise Girl out since I finished her. I can't really explain it, but being behind the wheel, the sea breeze on my face…"
"I believe we understand," Mera spoke up, her previous attitude vanished, as she nudged Aquaman "Sometimes I wonder where my Husband likes more, here or the surface world."
Aquaman winced, before gently grabbing her hand, "I don't believe I can claim favorites, having been raised above the sea, but I do know that wherever you are my dear, is where I would rather be."
Everyone watched the couples adoration with admiration and a bit of envy, before Aquaman turned back to Percy, "Anyway, I was wondering—"
"Just a second? Sorry I'm pretty sure interrupting the king is pretty disrespectful, but I have to know: what is this stuff made of?" He gestured to the feast before them, that included multicolored mushes and strange meats. He really hoped it wasn't what he thought it was.
Orm happily explained, "The meal before consists of different fruit and vegetables grown on the ocean floor in our personal farms, as well as several sea life cooked and served masterfully by our finest chefs."
Percy almost threw up In his mouth, "You eat fish?"
Tula frowned, "Of course! Why wouldn't we?"
"…Aren't some of you part fish?"
Aquaman shrugged, "Sure, but fish eat other fish all the time. People on the surface eat pigs and cows, it is no different.
Percy shook his head in disbelief b3fore looking at the king in horror, "But I thought you could communicate with sea life!"
He raised an eyebrow, "I command sea life yes, but many creatures of the sea do not have the capacity for conscious thought."
"Uh, that's wrong."
Everyone looked at the son of Poseidon in shock. "I beg your pardon."
Kaldur spoke up quickly, "My king, Percy has proven without a doubt that he is capable of full conversations with all manner of sea life, as well as horses."
Percy muttered under his breath "And zebras."
"B-but how?" Mera asked honestly, "They don't actually… speak to you?" She whispered the last part cautiously as if Percy would start raving like a lunatic at any moment.
Percy scoffed, "Of course not, that would be physically impossible." He switched to his telepathy, reaching out to the Atlanteans, "I do it like this."
They all jumped at the sudden intrusion I their minds, before looking at Percy with awe. "Remarkable" Orm spoke first, "And that was a completely natural action? You didn't have to study for years to learn how?"
Percy shrugged, "Not really, it took me a while to learn that I could do it, but after that it was like breathing, under water and out.
Orm looked to be contemplating, "I suppose it would be too much to ask for DNA samples?"
Percy chuckled, "I don't really have DNA, but yeah no. I already have a couple friends looking at samples I provided them, and no offense but I barely know you."
Tula scoffed, "He Is the prince of Atlantis! I should think—"
"No, he's right." Orm spoke up, looking at Percy apologetically, "It was rude of me to even bring it up."
Percy waved him off, "It's alright," before looking at the food, "Uh… which ones are.."
Mera recommended some of the non-fish options, which he tried and liked, quite a lot in fact.
Aquaman cleared his throat, determined not to get sidetracked again, "Now then, as to the main reason why we called you here. Simply put: your lineage and control over the sea, regardless of your origins, make you an important figure to Atlantis."
Percy winced "I already told Queen Mera that I don't want to be King, you don't have to worry—"
"I am aware," Aquaman smiled, "And I'm grateful. Truth be told, I'm not sure if I'd be able to defeat you underwater." He grunted as Mera elbowed him in the side, giving him a sharp loo, but he only chuckled, "My wife doesn't like me showing weakness, but word has spread throughout the league that Batman and Martian have both seen inside your mind, and found you worth trusting."
This gained wide eyes from Mera, Orm, and Tula, having heard stories of the callous leaguer, before the king continued, "I understand you have no interest ruling this place, but once word spreads throughout Atlantis of who you are, there are some who may think you are better suited to rule than I, not that that is hard for them.'
Percy started in realization, "Ah, you want me to back you up?"
He gave an embarrassed shrug, "Well, if it's no issue…"
"No that's fine. I guess if you an balance ruling a kingdom and being a superhero you must be a pretty good guy, that and Kaldur speaks highly of you, so you can count on me. anything in particular you need form me?"
The royal couple looked joyed at the news, Mera waved her hand away, "Oh you shouldn't have to do much, unless it gets too rowdy. Just mention our support to whoever approach's you, when you're here that is. I'm uncertain how often that will be…"
Percy smiled, "That's actually a good transition on what I wanted to ask. I have pretty powerful control over the sea, but I've seen Kaldur do some things that I know I can't, like electrifying water. I was wondering if I could come try my hand at it, maybe attend a few classes see if I'm capable of learning."
Mera smiled brightly at this, "Of course, I always enjoy getting new students! And if Kaldur accompanies you, he can use the opportunity to further his own studies. That should be perfect!"
Percy smiled before turning to Kaldur, "Hear that, we can be study buddies. Maybe I can get those eel tattoos as well! Matching tats would be sick."
Kaldur laughed gently at the thought, before Tula spoke up, "Actually the eel tattoos are meant to be turned non-visible, Kaldur simply hasn't gotten far enough in his studies to know how."
Percy resisted the urge to snarl at the condescending tone in Tula's voice. Kaldur missed It entirely, and smiled at he , "Perhaps, we could use a tutor?"
Tula's yes widened, but before he could respond, Percy blurted out, "I need to use the bathroom."
The room was silent for a moment as if the Atlanteans were trying to process that he really said that in the middle of a dinner with royalty, but before they could, Percy stood up, dragging Kaldur out of the booth "Come on man, I need you to show me where the nearest one is." They were out of the room before Kaldur could protest.
Once they were well away from the dining room, Kaldur shook off Percy's hand, "What is going on? Is something wrong"
Percy sighed before turning to his friend, "Dude, Tula and Garth are together."
The Atlantean froze, staring at Percy incomprehension. "I don't understand."
Percy hated doing this, he knew it would hurt Kaldur, no matter what, but he felt he had to, "I know she's the girl you like and all, but Garth and her have been sharing a lot of looks I recognize."
Kaldur backed up, "No, you're wrong."
"I might be, but I might not. I know I'm no Aphrodite when it comes to this stuff, but I can see the obvious. The only reason you can't is because you love her, and love makes a man stupid. That I say from experience, not as an insult."
Kaldur had calmed down a little, but he still didn't believe it. "'But when I left we…"
A dawn of realization crossed his face as Percy nodded sadly, "You left four months ago man."
Kaldur sighed before leaning against the wall, suddenly feeling overwhelmingly tired, "I feel like such a fool."
Percy leaned next to him. "You're not a fool, you're in love, and hero. You've read the Geek Myths that rarely ends well, so far I have no evidence to say otherwise."
Kaldur winced at that before sighing deeply, "Thank you for telling me, before I… oh gods I was about to tell her I loved her, that I wanted to stay for her!"
Percy chuckled, "Direct approach huh? That's so you. Look man. I know she was the initial reason why you wanted to stay down here but, if you still want to stick around here for a while, I won't drag you home with me.
"Kaldur chuckled dryly, "I think this is the last place I want to be right now but thank you for saying that." He put a hand on Percy's shoulder and looked him in the eyes, "Thank you for this Percy, you always come through for me, even when I don't know I' need it."
Percy smiled, "Hey don't mention it. And hey I still might be wrong but don't get your hopes up, but we still should check. I wouldn't want to ruin your love life on a hunch. I could question them about it if you like…"
Kaldur shook his head, "No I believe you are right. Looking back now it is obvious." He stood up straight off the wall, "But we should not let this get us down." He turned to Percy with a firm expression, "Things may go wrong from time to time, and while I hurt now, I know there will be others for me, and for you."
Percy's eyes widened, "Kaldur… I might live forever. I would outlive any women I meet, and any children I have. I don't think I can—"
Kaldur rolled his eyes and put both hands-on Percy's shoulders, shaking him out of is depression spiral. "Percy. We are not in your universe anymore. There are beings other than gods and mortals, beings with extended lifespans, even indefinite ones. Do not lose hope."
Percy took a moment to think it over before smiling widely, "Yeah… you're right. I just have to keep looking huh? Well look at that, I guess we both helped each other?"
Kaldur nodded with a. smile before his expression turned sour, "Now let's help ourselves get through the rest of this dinner. It will no doubt be awkward after your previous outburst..."
Percy rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment, "Yeah… it was the first thing that came to mind… sorry."
Later
Dinner went pretty quick after that. Soon after Percy returned, Mera announced that she was pregnant with Arthur's baby, which caused for a round of celebration, and Percy giving Tula a truly smug "I told you so" look. Shortly after Aquaman was called away by the League on some mission and headed to the teleporters. Percy then let Kaldur lead him around the Conservatory, introducing him to his former classmates. Again, the variety in body types astounded him. There was one boy who resembled a small white whale, named Blubber. Percy tried hard not to snicker as he was interested
There was also a hot-headed guy with shark attributes, including a shark head, who was introduced as King Sha'ark. Percy was half expecting Kaldur to admit to fucking with him at that point.
Then there was the mermaid, or Lori. Apparently, she was Tritonis, while the conservatory resided in Posiedonis, and all the people of Tritonis had fish tail.
Percy made an off-hand remark about how they should probably have two tales by that logic, but they only frowned and confusion, so they moved on. Apparently, none of the students had heard about the son of Poseidon yet, instead thinking he was an ordinary surface dweller who could breathe underwater. This made Percy question their intelligence until he saw their sorcery. It went above and beyond his expectations. Apparently, there were spells for healing, attacking, even cleaning. That last one would be his first priority, he couldn't keep relying on Tyson to keep their room from smelling.
Eventually they were approached by Tula and Garth, hand in hand. Kaldur was showing Percy a great view from a cliff above the city when they called out to them."
Garth spoke first "Kaldur, there's something we have to tell you… we… er… that is…"
Tula, rolling her eyes a bit, took a deep breath and spoke a bit louder, "Kaldur we are to— ""
"Together. Yes, I know," Kaldur finished for her with a smile.
The pair blinked, "You do?"
Kaldur nodded, before pausing, "Actually Percy was the one to point it out to me. I am thankful that he did, otherwise I fear I might have made an ass of myself later on."
Garth looked at his friend apprehensively," Are you upset?"
Kaldur seemed to think about it, "I am… disappointed. I cannot say I have no regrets, but at the end of the day, you are both my friends, If you have found happiness with each other, I wouldn't dream of standing in your way. I am happy for you."
The couple seemed in awe at their friend, before they both enveloped the Atlantean in a hug, which Percy found a bit awkward, but if Kaldur felt the same, he didn't show it.
Unfortunately, the moment was ruined as various explosions were set off behind them and in the city below.
The trio broke up to stare at the catastrophe in shock, while Percy was already looking for the best possible defense strategy. He turned to the Atlanteans, "I don't suppose that was scheduled?"
Garth gritted his teeth, "We are under attack!"
"From who?" Percy asked in exasperation.
"It is likely Black Manta." Kaldur said solemnly "He had a longstanding hatred for our king and his people, and an army to back him up."
"Those are populated areas!" Tula cried, "People could be hurt!"
"The guard will handle them," Garth stated, a little hopefully.
"Not if they are otherwise occupied." Kaldur growled as he pointed downwards, to a group of guards in a firefight with soldiers in sleek Black suits.
"We have to help them!" Garth exclaimed, already swimming forward, b8ut Kaldur quickly stopped him, "Stop! If we help them the civilians will die, and vice versa!"
"So what do we do?" Tula asked desperately, unused to these situations as Garth. To their surprise, instead of giving an answer, Kaldur Turned to Percy, who was standing on the edge of the cliff, staring down at the scene before him. "Perseus! What shall we do?"
Garth scoffed, "You would take orders from him? Poseidon's son or not this is our—" he was cut off as a the water around his mouth suddenly solidified and gagged him, his eyes widened as he struggled against it, but to no avail, even Tula couldn't help him.
Kaldur sighed but was unconcerned as Percy asked, "When Aquaman summons sea creatures, how does he do it? Like what steps does he take?"
Kaldur frowned, knowing that revealing such information could be considered treason, but he knew what Percy was thinking, so he didn't hesitate to say, "He visualizes his mind expanding around him, when it picks up on sea life he focuses on it and makes the connection."
Percy sniffed, "Okay, that gives me something to go on..."
Tula, now no longer paying attention to her gagged boyfriend, looked at Percy in confusion, "What are you—"
She stopped talking when he drew a full trident out of seemingly nothing. He held it in both hands in front of him, holding still for a moment, before suddenly shooting towards the ground, slamming the bottom of the weapon into the ground, and shouting, "COME!"
A ripple shot out form where the Trident struck, and even caused the ocean floor to tremble slightly beneath them. The ripple went out further and further until it was no longer in sight.
Before the Atlanteans could ask just what the hell kind of magic that was, Percy whipped around, revealing a truly furious expression as he addressed Kaldur, "Backup will be here soon. We should start taking out he enemy."
Kaldur nodded, but Tula shifted uncomfortably, "What about the civilians? They need help first and … what backup are you talking about?"
Percy regarded her with a steely look, that she could tell was not truly directed at her, "Fair enough, get to it. As for the backup, look up."
Garth and Tula did so, and what they saw sent shivers down their spines. It first appeared to be an enormous black cloud, covering the entirety of Poseidonis, but upon closer look, it was revealed to be a swarm of sea life. Sharks, dolphins, whales, guppies, creatures of every shape and size were swarming towards the barrier. When they reached it, they broke through the magic with overwhelming force. Some surged towards the wreckage, using strength in numbers to lift debris and take out unconscious or hurt civilians, while others used strength in numbers to attack the enemies.
Percy eyed Kaldur, "The whole "no killing" rule doesn't apply down, here right?"
Kaldur gulped, "You will face no judgement from us, but Percy are you alright? You seem—"
"Pissed off?" Percy asked a little forcefully, "I'm from New York Kaldur, we don't take kindly to this sort of thing." When he saw the confused looks he sighed, "Right… that never happened in this universe… the point is I don't like terrorists. Now come on it's time to get to work."
Garth swam forward, "We should go to the queen first, make sure she's alright.'"
The Queen was actually all right, though one might not realize that from looking at her. She was currently guarding several of her younger students from a squad of mantas, shielding them from their fire with an enormous octopus construct. She, of course. Had noticed the swarm of sea life that had spontaneously come to the cities aid, and for a moment she had a faint hope that her husband had returned early, but she knew that he was incapable of summoning such a large quantity of creatures. She didn't have time to ponder however, as she was under attack.
Just as she was about to run out of power for her construct, the fire was redirected. She looked to see her three students tearing a path through the manta troopers towards her. While Kaldur and Garth kept them busy, Tula rushed to her queens side as she released the construct with a tired sigh. "Queen Mera! Are you alright?"
The queen nodded before smiling at her pupil "I am glad you are all safe. Though, I am unsure the cause of our sudden reinforcements.
Tula looked confused as well but told her, "That was Perseus my queen, he called them somehow."
Mera's eyes widened before she nodded, "I suppose that makes sense. We'll have to thank him. Where is he?
"HYAAAAAAAH!"
In came Percy, wielding his trident in front of him as he shot through the water at impossible speeds. His trident managed to impale three enemies on it before the blade was completely covered, sending clouds of blood through the water. He quickly kicked the bodies off before rushing towards the others, stabbing some, taking others heads with the edge of the tridents he flew by, all in a matter of seconds. Within moments the squad was decimated, and Percy was already charging off to find more.
The Atlanteans were silent as they watched him go, before Mera asked, "Is he… alright?"
Kaldur sighed, "I believe he has some sort of grudge against 'terrorism', which is how he classified this attack."
"Hmm, spreading terror is always in play with Manta, but I believe there is more to this." Prince Orm swam from behind Mera, smiling reassuringly at the scared students behind her. "I've had reports of attacks in sectors 1-6, and 8-10 but sector 7 is remarkably undamaged."
Kaldur's eyes widened, "The research center… could they be after your creature?"
Orm considered it, "It is quite remarkable, it's healing abilities alone… You should head there now, make sure it's safe. I would go with you, but I must protect the queen, and the heir."
Mera scoffed "Protection from what? Between Perseus and his legion of sea life I doubt there will be any danger left between here and the center."
"Nevertheless," Orm stated firmly, "Manta's plan may yet hold more stages. Kaldur, Garth, Tula, you are our brightest sorcerers besides Mera, I don't wish to put you in harm's way but—"
"My prince do not worry," Kaldur bowed respectfully, "You could simply order us and we would not mind. We will serve gladly." The two behind him nodded in agreement before the trio swam off toward their adjective.
The trip there was quite fascinating. Everywhere you looked you could see sharks, dolphins, even octopi helping to move the ruckus. Once they even saw a chain of Octopi attached to a whale to help move a particular heavy piece of debris.
Then of course there was the occasional enemy, one even fired a shot at them, but they were stopped shortly after as a shark dragged him away. Manta troopers were being slaughtered everywhere by sharks of all shapes and sizes or electrocuted by groups of eels. It was a truly horrifying yet humbling sight, reminding the Atlantes of the power and majesty of the ocean they live in.
Eventually they made their way to the Research Center, which, surprise surprise, had a squad of manta troopers guarding it.
Kaldur quickly took command, leading his friends to quickly and quietly take the enemy out without alerting the others, so they weren't overwhelmed. They then headed inside.
As they were swimming down the corridor, Tula turned to Garth, "Do you think he's really okay with us?"
Garth looked at her in disbelief, "Are you sure this is the best time to talk about this
Tula wanted to argue that they might not have another chance, but when she looked ahead again, she froze. "Where's Kaldur?"
Before Garth could respond, the sound of a Manta troopers gun charging up sent shivers down their spines. Instead of a swift death however, the sounds of grunts and weapon hitting flesh sounded. They turned to see Kaldur hovering over two unconscious enemies with a mace construct.
Tula and Garth stared at their friend in awe. "How did you…"
Kaldur simply smirked, and proudly stated, "I too have my studies."
In the main chamber of the research center stood an enormous chunk of ice, holding inside it a massive starfish shaped silhouette. Currently, Black manta was directing his troopers to fasten a harness to the ice, in preparation to lift it out and away. However, he quickly noticed a pair of troopers enter the room, walking without the discipline he etched into all his underlings. He chuckled to himself before calling out to them, "Fancy seeing you here… Aqualad."
The two froze before turning to face him. He waited for whichever turned out to be Aqualad, but instead they both lifted their masks off to reveal Tula and Garth.
Tula smirked at the criminal, "I think you're confused. Aqualad is the guy who's about to beat your head in."
Manta's eyes widened under his mask, so much as to almost the eyes on the outside, and turned to block, far to slowly. Kaldur was already shooting from the shadows of the ceiling, his mace came down on Manta's head, but only managed to disorient him due to his high-tech helmet. Manta took a moment to recover before growling at his Nemesis' protégé "You really have no ambition past serving Aquaman?
Kaldur answered by charging in for another attack while Tula and Garth attacked the troopers around them. He was less concerned about them. He was incredibly irritated every time he had to face the teen, partly because of how many times he beat him, but mostly because of the fact that it was his own son following his enemy around like a lost puppy. Of course, he saw no use in telling him. He doubted it would make a difference, as brainwashed as he was with the Atlantean lifestyle. He might break it to him one day, as a last resort to get out of a sticky situation.
Now however, he channeled his irritation into pummeling the little upstart, sending a little eye blast his way every once in a while, if only to keep up appearances, he wasn't going to kill his own flesh and blood, at least without a good reason.
He hastily ordered his troopers to lift out the target, but the cord was cut by a magic attack from Tula. Time for plan B.
He did his best to act enraged as he turned towards the target and signaled his suit to send a rocket towards it. The projectile rose out of his shoulder pad, before shooting through the water faster than anyone could react to. Manta didn't stop to watch the fireworks however he was already on his way out, knowing the resulting explosion would be large enough to take the building down. He heard the impact, and then… nothing.
At that moment, Black Manta went against all his good judgment and turned around to see why the expected explosion didn't happen. He had a half second to see a dome of hardened water surrounding the target, what was left of it, before a sharp pain erupted in his left shoulder, and momentum yanked him backwards until he was slammed against the wall.
His eyes were clenched shut in pain before he took a deep breath and opened his eyes to look at the offending object. His eyes widened when he saw it was a large, and frankly beautiful trident, impaling his shoulder and pinning him to the wall. His first thought was: Aquaman should be away on the distraction!
But after a moment, he decided that this was not the trident of his nemesis, but no less deadly or beautiful as the Trident of Neptune, if not more so. He then looked up and saw who through it.
Percy had swum in through the hole the troopers were using to lift out the creature. He was currently swimming above the dome he conjured to contain the explosion. As Manta stared at him, the only thing in his mind was: WHO THE HELL IS THAT?
Then he blinked, and when he opened his eyes, he found the kid inches away from his face, a foot on his chest, and a hand gripping the trident. "So, you're the one who orchestrated this huh?"
Manta was about to answer, or maybe shoot him with an eye blast, but before he could decide, Percy ripped the trident out of him, not caring as the barbs tore through his flesh on the way out. This of course caused a leak in his armor, but it quickly sealed itself, one of its many handy functions.
Manta was in pain, but he was also chuckling inwardly, as that was the only thing holding him still. He went to fight back but found he couldn't move. It was if the water around him was holding him in place. He was entirely at the kid's mercy, so seeing no other option, he tired stalling, "Who are you?"
The kid glared at him, before asking, "You're human, aren't you? That suit is the only thing keeping you from suffocating?"
Manta narrowed his eyes under the mask, "What of it?"
Percy smirked, "Let's see how long you last without it. The names Perseus by the way."
Manta would normally scoff at that, his armor was notoriously tough, with no room for leaks at an atomic level, but this boy had already pierced it, and he was immobilized, so he was already panicking when the water around him seemed to dig into his armor and rip it away from him like the ocean itself had turned against him. He was soon left in a simple wetsuit, struggling to hold his breath, while Percy watched impassively.
That is, until Kaldur called out, "Percy stop!"
The son of Poseidon looked at his friend in confusion, "Why? You can't tell me he doesn't deserve it!"
Kaldur winced, "No I can't, but this is not his first crime, he has much to answer for. That's why he doesn't deserve such mercy. Let him stand trial in Atlantis! Please!"
Percy regarded his friend for a moment before rolling his eyes and forming a bubble of air around the villain's head, though he had already passed out from lack of oxygen, "Fine, but please tell me you have the death penalty down here?"
(This is not political btw, I'm not taking a stance on death penalty, but Percy has a way he deals with enemies, and this guy has pissed him off)
Kaldur smiled in relief , "As a matter of fact, we do."
Later.
Aquaman returned to find a good chunk of his kingdom destroyed and being rebuild by both Atlanteans and a variety of sea life. He also learned that his Nemesis, Black Manta, was taking out in a matter seconds by their guest.
Most men would have a bruised ego over this, and Arthur was no different, but he would not look a gift horse in the mouth. He made sure to publicly thank Perseus for his deed, while also formally introducing him to his kingdom.
He then let Percy speak, and to his relief, he simply waved off his army of sea life and easy takedown of Atlantis' most wanted and talked about how he was in awe of the culture and architecture he found down here, before talking about how amazed he was that Arthur was able to juggle ruling such a place with saving the rest of the world, albeit a bit awkwardly, but it did the jo. There would be no overthrowing him anytime soon. Orm also reported a piece of the creature survived, and that he would send it to STAR Labs for further study.
He made sure to thank Percy for what he did, but the boy just waved him off and let him know that the creatures would leave when the construction was finished, and that they should refrain from hunting them or anything. Mera was quick to assure them that they would not, and with that, The son of Poseidon left with Kaldur, but not before being ambushed by a swarm of grateful Atlanteans, the majority of which were female. Percy very politely greeted them and turned them all down, even the ones that didn't have the lower half of a fish.
It still astounded Aquaman. The boy obviously had immense power under the sea, power that was greatly diminished when he walked on land. He would do well in Atlantis, and showed no discomfort in any way being down there. Yet he still decided to return to New York. Arthur decided to just count his blessings in the end. If he did stay down there, he might be out of a job, whether he or and Percy liked it or not
One thing was for sure however: Percy had done much to help Atlantis, and Atlantis would not soon forget it.
The morning after Percy and Kaldur left.
Tyson was excited.
Okay he got excited for a lot of things but his was different. Today M'gann had promised to teach Superboy and Him how to cook. Until now, it was a skill he had always looked at fondly but never had time to learn. When he was interning at his father's forges, the Cyclopes there practically lived off of Peanut butter.
Superboy, though he wouldn't admit it, was interested as well. When he heard M'gann and Tyson talking about it, he cautiously asked if he could join, claiming he had nothing better to do that day, which technically wasn't a lie.
The trio was currently standing in the kitchen, with Superboy and Tyson standing next to each other before M'gann, like soldiers standing before a superior officer.
M'gann clapped her hands together, "Okay! What do you guys want to start with?"
Superboy simply shifted silently while Tyson pondered the question, "What all do you know?"
M'gann flushed a bit, "I…. actually, have been studying earth cooking for a few years now, I've only recently had hands on experience, but I have yet to fail a dish. So basically, what s your favorite food?"
"I don't know." Superboy answered simply
"Uh… donuts?"
M'gann smiled awkwardly at the two hopeless cases before her, "Okay… why don't we start with something simple? Like chicken quarters!"
Both boys seemed to agree to that, so they got started. Tyson asked where the chicken was, so they could slaughter it, but M'gann just chuckled nervously and pulled out a store bought package off chicken quarters from the fridge, "Why don't we just use this?"
She then went on to explain a simple way of preparing the quarters. First, she slavered a quarter with olive oil, then seasoning them with a wide variety of spices. The boys seemed to get it easy enough and began to season their pieces. All was going well until she saw that they were trying to replicate the way she seasoned it exactly.
She quickly spoke up, "Uh guys? You don't have to do it exactly how I did it. You can use whatever spices you want, personally I like mine to be a bit spicy, but you may not."
Superboy had a bit of a red tinge on his cheeks at his mistake, but gave her a silent nod of thanks, while Tyson asked, "How do we know what spices we like?"
M'gann smiled at the good question, 'Well, most of taste is based on smell, so sue whatever smells best, and what you think would go well together. Give them a sniff.
Tyson's mouth formed an O before he went back to it, while Superboy brought up a red pepper container to his nose, giving it a good sniff.
Unfortunately he seemed to forget about his powerful lungs ,which made his nostrils into vacuums that sucked the pepper into his nose, making him start coughing and sneezing uncontrollably. M'gann used all her willpower to stop from giggling at his actions while she patted him on the back, before Tyson gave him a good smack on the back, that somehow expelled all the dust in one go.
After Superboy caught his breath, he looked up at M'gann seriously, "That didn't happen."
She blinked, "Uhhh…"
"What didn't happen?" Tyson asked innocently, before giving M'gann a small smile. No doubt Superboy saw it, but he simply huffed in satisfaction, before finishing seasoning his Chicken quarter.
M'gann and Tyson finished theirs as well, and the differences in taste were made apparent: M'gann liked it mildly spicy, Superboy liked it with as little spice as possible, and Tyson liked his with a heap of garlic on it, among other things.
Satisfied, M'gann turned to the oven, only to scoff, "Darn it! I forgot to preheat the oven. Ugh, I guess it's going to take a little longer, sorry guys..."
Tyson frowned, before walking past her and opening the oven, ands sticking his head and arms inside. This gave M'gann a mini heart attack as she had just turned it on, but she quickly reminded herself of his heat resistance. she was about to ask what he was doing, as he seemed to be adjusting and tinkering with things inside, but before she could ask, she had to jump back as a huge fireball exploded out of the oven, engulfing Tyson in an instant before dissipating.
M'gann was at a loss for words as Tyson pulled himself out of the Oven and smiled proudly, "It's hot enough now!"
Then the sprinklers turned on.
"Oops…" Tyson muttered as his shoulders stiffened. Luckily Superboy was already grabbing the pans with the quarters and shoving them in the oven so they weren't ruined by the water.
"I-I'm sorry!" Tyson exclaimed as the emergency fire suppression system was set off all over the mountain, M'gann was trying to keep dry by stretching out her hand into an umbrella shape over her head, but in the end she was still getting et in the process. Superboy just stood there awkwardly, "Just let me go shut off the sprinklers! I'm really sorry!"
He then rushed off, brushing by Kara and Raven as they emerged from their rooms to see why their belongings were getting soaked. The cyclops blurted out an apology to them as he passed before rushing off to where the sprinkler system was controlled.
The two made their way into the kitchen to see the other soaked members of the mountain, "What happened?" Kara asked, not seeing a fire.
M'gann was a little unsure of how to answer, so Superboy said, "Tyson tried to heat up the oven a little too quickly. Honestly, the moment Percy leaves…"
Raven only nodded her head in understanding as Kara took a few moments to figure out how that made sense, eventually giving up when the sprinklers suddenly stopped, leaving the cavern home only slightly less wet than it could have been.
Raven sniffed before looking at the oven, the counter with the other (wet) chicken quarters. "You're making chicken?"
M'gann's eyes widened, before she smacked her forehead "Hello Megan! I'm sorry guys! I was teaching Tyson and Superboy how to cook and… I should have considered hat you 'd want some—"
Kara raised er hands to stop her, "Whoa girl, it was just a question, not a guilt trip. You guys are fine."
"It is a shame though," Raven said, still eyeing the soggy chicken, "It's been a while since I had chicken.
M'gann sighed, "I'm sure Tyson didn't mean to set off the sprinklers—"
"Oh, I know." Raven stopped her, "Though as smart as he is, it makes you wonder how he made such a mistake."
M'gann looked at her in alarm, "You think somethings bothering him?"
Raven shrugged, "I didn't use my powers on him but… it wouldn't be a surprise, considering."
Everyone in the room nodded their head in agreement, except for Kara, who was confused, "Considering what? Oh! Cause he's in the same boat as Percy? That would make sense, do you think he had like a Cyclops girlfriend or something?"
M'gann was about to snap at the Kryptonian that she shouldn't talk about something like that so casually, but before she could, Tyson's voice spoke from across the room, "S-she was a Harpy…."
Everyone snapped to see Tyson standing at the entrance of the living room, holding something that looked suspiciously like a proton gun from Ghostbusters. They were less concerned about that than the tears welling up in his eye, before he ran out of the room, choking back tears unsuccessfully.
Without a word, M'gann was shooting through the air after him a look of deep concern on her face, while Raven trailed calmly after her, but not before giving Kara a look that said. well not much considering it was him but Kara got the implications.
The Kryptonian backed up a bit in defense, "I'm sorry! I didn't think he actually—"
"Didn't think he actually what?" Superboy snapped from beside her, "Just because he has one eye he can't have someone special?"
For a moment Kara forgot she was in the wrong, "That wasn't what I meant at all! it's just—"
"Save it!" he spat before jogging after the rest, leaving Kara to wonder how she once again fucked up so badly.
M'gann followed Tyson down through the forge, ignoring the unpleasant heat, further into the Cove, and into the little side room he hid with a boulder. It was rolled away in a clearly half hazard fashion, revealing a heartbreaking scene within.
The past few weeks, Tyson had been using his spare time to work on a very special project. Most things he could accomplish in a manner of hours, or even minutes, but this was different. Each feather was crafted individually, with the utmost love and care, then painstakingly arranged in the proper formation.
In the middle of h small room was mannequin with outstretched arms. Attached under an on the end of each arm was a pair of scarlet wings, made of perfectly crafted feathers forged from Tiber metal. The feathers started under each armpit and continued down the length of the arm, with straps wrapping around the bicep and forearm. At each hand was a handle the user could grab for better control, before the wings continued outward for a couple more feet.
M'gann had been honored to be able to help Tyson with it from time to time. Though he never stated it, she knew the project was some sort of coping mechanism to deal with the loss of his first… love? Crush? Girlfriend? They didn't know each other that long but he loss of Ella ha obviously taken a heavy toll on Tyson, and these wings were how he dealt with it. Whether it was effective or not, M'gann was beginning to have doubts.
Like now for instance. As Tyson struggled to keep from crying loudly, he started crafting new feathers to fill the empty spots. The first one he made looked perfectly fine to M'gann, but apparently he saw something she didn't because he cried out in frustration before crushing it like clay and staring again.
Raven walked in shortly after that, but unlike M'gann, was instantly distracted by the wings, as was Superboy as he came in moment after, "Woah…"
Tyson whirled around at Superboy's entrance, eye red and voice shaky as she spoke "Oh! This was supposed to be a surprise... but I guess it still is. Can I take your measurements?"
Superboy blinked in confusion, "Those are for me?"
Tyson nodded, wiping his face, "Percy told me how you were disappointed when you learned you couldn't fly, but now you can! With your strength it shouldn't be any trouble getting lift, and I even colored them to match your symbol and—"
"Dude," The clone finally spoke, "I'm not sure—" he cut off with a wince as M'gann's voice filed his brain, causing him to meet her meaningful glare. After a moment, he got the message as his eyes widened, "Uh…. I mean actually it might be better if you wear them don't' you think?"
Tyson blinked, "What?"
"Well it's not that I don't appreciate it, but, well, feathers aren't really my style you know? Plus was strong as you are you could probably go way faster—"
"I can't wear them!" Tyson exclaimed, looking more stressed out by the second.
"Why not?" Raven questioned.
Tyson looked around at them as if he couldn't believe what he was hearing, "B-because I can't!"
"Tyson," M'gann spoke softly, "We don't understand, why can't you wear them? Will they not work for you? Are you… afraid of hei—"
"I just CAN'T OKAY!" Tyson shouted, before gasping at himself, and turning to lean over his work table, hiding his face from the others, but not the tears dripping onto the table..
After a moment he whispered, "I—I don't deserve them…"
Everyone heard him, but only one understood, and now M'gann was crying as hard as Tyson, as she approached him and tentatively draped herself over his back holding him from behind, or as much as she could reach. Then she whispered, "Tyson it… it wasn't your fault."
She felt him tense up beneath her, which with his muscles made it feel like she was lying on a slab of concrete. Still she continued, "I saw the fight from Percy's eyes. He might not have seen everything, but it was enough to know that what happened to Ella wasn't your fault."
"…But… I brought her there… I should have taken care of her! Instead I let her get crushed under that gods damned giant's foot!" He was practically screaming at the table he was leaning on, but M'gann only hugged him tighter.
"You didn't force her there Tyson, I know you wouldn't do that. She came because she wanted to, she knew the risks. I might not have known her, but I think that she wouldn't want you hurting this badly over her death."
Tyson paused for a moment at that, "She's not dead. Not really anyway. She'll reform in Tartarus, and that's even worse. You've seen how that place is, and this will be her first time reforming! She'll be scared and alone! The other Harpies were already mean to her, imagine what the ones down there will do!"
That sent a shiver down even Superboy's spine. He had an idea of what Tartarus was like. The thought of someone he knew going there gave him an idea of what Tyson was feeling. Still he had to speak up, "From what I've heard of her, she seems really smart right?"
Tyson sniffed at that before answering, "…yeah, she was the smartest. She never forgot anything."
"Then I bet she read something that could help her out in a bad situation. But beyond that, you need to stop insulting her memory."
Tyson whirled around immediately, nearly throwing off M'gann, who was also staring at Superboy. In surprise. "I would never—"
"She died helping you" Superboy stated firmly, "She went into it knowing she would die but she did it anyways for you. wherever she is now, she probably feels proud of herself for what she did for you, yet here you are saying it was your fault and not even thanking her! How do you think that would make her feel? Huh?"
M'gann was shocked by the clone's words, wondering where they were coming form, but when she detected the slight waver in his voice, she wagered that not even he knew.
Tyson was thinking. Very hard by the looks of it, before slowly he responded, "Not very good…"
"Exactly," Superboy stated, "It's okay to feel bad that she's gone, but don't take away from what she did for you by blaming yourself for it. And you're going to use those wings, not because you deserve them, even though you do, but because it's how you're going to honor Ella's memory, you got that?"
Tyson nodded quickly, "Right."
Superboy nodded in satisfaction, "Good. I'm gonna go check on the chicken." He headed back upstairs leaving Raven to look after him impassively, and M'gann to wonder just how the guy who wasn't even a year old got so damn wise all of a sudden.
Raven turned back to Tyson, seeming to hesitate before saying, "I don't usually do this but… a part of my powers besides feeling others emotions is the ability to take emotions away and make others feel something different. I could help… alleviate the pain if you want."
Tyson stared at her in awe for a moment before smiling, "No thanks. I think I'm good for mow. Thank you though.
Raven nodded before exiting after Superboy. That left Tyson and M'gann alone.
M'gann was still standing behind the cyclops when he said, "Thank you."
Her eyes widened before she looked down, "I… that was all Superboy. I don't think I helped all that much."
Tyson turned to stare at her with a smile, one that she couldn't help but return, though she tried not to, "You did more than that. Really, thank you."
M'gann was still unsure of what she did, but she was glad all the same. She was about to say that he was welcome, but before she could, he grabbed her hand firmly and started leading her upstairs, "Let's finish up the chicken!"
The Martian girl simply let him lea her, using the opportunity to enjoy his large hand around hers.
Upstairs, the others were still trying to dry off of the extra chicken in hopes of making more, not even bothering with the rest of the place. As soon as Kara spotted Tyson, and his red eye from crying, she rushed towards him and started apologizing, but he stopped her, "It's okay. I know you didn't know."
She was relieved that he forgave her, but still not satisfied with herself, "Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?"
Tyson thought for a moment, before saying, "I might have something I'll need help with later."
She nodded, "Just ask."
Superboy hoisted up the weird rifle-like object Tyson had brought in earlier, "What is this thing anyway? It looks like a flamethrower."
Tyson rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment, "Close, it's a heat gun, I was going to use it to dry all the rooms."
"When did you make that?" Raven asked.
"While I was taking care of the sprinklers
That only got silence. While all of them should be used to his crafting skills by now, they still found it amazing every time. Finally M'gann said , "Why don't we test it out then? Maybe on the chicken?"
Tyson nodded, before taking the gun and firing it up. He aimed it at the chicken quarters and pulled the trigger. As he did, the air around the chicken started to ripple with heat. After five seconds he released it, leaving the wings no longer soggy.
"That's amazing!" Kara exclaimed, "That's like Krypton level technology! Well the technology of my old hairdryer… but it took you like five minutes to build it?"
Tyson chuckled nervously, 'Yeah… I've been way better at building things since I came here."
Raven spoke up, "I've been looking into it. Apparently all cyclopes are naturally gifted from birth in forging where he's from. That doesn't just happen naturally, so I discovered that a part of his brain is being fueled by the magic surrounding him. Since the magic is greater inn this universe, so is his brain.
"What's the most complicated thing you've done?" Kara asked
"… I made the television run better?"
Superboy scoffed, "Better? It is the highest definition in the mountain and picks up every channel on earth."
Tyson shook his head, "It's not that big a deal guys, can't we just finish the chicken? I can dry off your rooms while you do the seasoning." He addressed Kara and Raven for that last apart, partly asking permission.
They agreed, but all of them knew that they would have to talk about Tyson's abilities at some point. They decided to take his advice however and enjoyed the chicken. Kara, like Supergirl, seemed to avoid the spicy stuff, while Raven leaned into it completely, creating a piece of chicken that scared everyone at the table just by looking at it.
When they were all cooked, they sat around the coffee table in the living room and ate them together. That had a weird start.
As everyone was taking the first bite of their creations, a large CRUNCH was heard from Tyson. Everyone looked to see that instead of eating the meat off the bone like they were doing, Tyson had just taken a huge bite of the quarter, chomping straight through the bone and chewing everything up in his mouth with ease, and form the looks of it, enjoying it immensely.
When he realized he was being watched, he blushed brightly and put his chicken down, swallowing quickly "Sorry! I shouldn't have done tha—"
CRUNCH
The cyclops' eye widened before he turned to see Superboy had taken a similar bite, cutting through the bone with his highly durable teeth. He then nodded in approval, "Crunchy… I like it."
Another crunch signaled M'gann doing the same thing, hardening the inside of her mouth so the bones didn't cut her as she chewed. Kara was a bit taken back at first, but eventually shrugged and gave it a try to find that she also liked it. "I didn't realize there was so much goodness inside the bone!"
Tyson nodded enthusiastically, "That's the marrow! Some people think it's gross, but it's actually a delicacy in some places!"
Then everyone turned towards Raven, who raised an eyebrow, "I'm… good, but by all means enjoy yourselves." She took a normal bit.
Central City
Wally was having a great time. Not that it was hard for him, he was a speedster after all. But he never had as much fun as when he was with his family.
Extended family that is. Aunt Iris, Uncle Barry, his parents, and his pseudo grandparents. Jay Garrick was the original Flash, now retired, who liked to keep in touch with the ones carrying on his name, his wife Joan sat beside him at the dinner table, as everyone celebrated his birthday.
"So, 92 years old and you still look around 60," Barry stated with a grin, "I hope my powers help like that."
Jay chuckled, "You wish kid. My powers are purely chemical, I never need that fancy smancy 'speed force' that is all the rage with the youngsters these days." That earned a round of chuckles.
Despite being 92, and despite right, Jay wasn't actually serous. In fact he was happy that the modern-day heroes had powers that greatly surpassed those of his day. but he and Barry couldn't help but fall into their cycle of Banter. They claimed that as speedsters, it was important to keep your tongue as quick as your feet.
The older man looked at Wally, who was tucking into his meal with a vengeance. "Speaking of youngsters, what's the deal with that new guy Perseus, and his Cyclops friend? I saw him on the news, seems like a nice enough fellow, but I bet you would know better than I."
Wally was about to respond when Barry spoke first, "The kids nice and all once you get to know him, but he's got a real mean streak. Not even a day into this universe and he already killed someone."
The couples gasped at his while Wally rolled his eyes, "Okay one, the guy he killed was a ten-foot monster who was trying to kill us and him so—"
"That doesn't make it right." Barry stated not even looking at him,
Wally narrowed his eyes, "I didn't say that, but I figured a little context is warranted so they don't think he's just a mindless brute." He turned to his family, "His world isn't like ours at all. We fight thugs and villains, he fought literal monsters and gods."
Jay snorted, "Gods… don't tell me you believe that magic mumbo jumbo?"
Iris spoke up, "Jay, you know Wonder Woman is a daughter of Zeus."
He nodded, "Yeah, but that doesn't mean that Zeus is a god. He's probably some extradimensional being, but gods aren't real."
Wally nodded, "That's what I thought, but from what I've seen, what he's done… I don't know if the same applies to his universe. I mean he literally has golden ichor flowing through his veins!"
Joan frowned, "Ichor? Isn't that what full gods have? The news said he's a demigod."
Wally winced, not daring to meet Barry's icy look beside him "That's the leagues story, but he's actually a god… or something. He said he used to bleed red but started bleeding golden when he came here. According to him he isn't nearly as powerful as real gods but…"
Wally's mom looked at her son with concern, "But what sweetheart?"
"I saw him part the freak ocean guys. Not even a straight line, he made a freaking hole in the middle of the ocean with nothing but air with his mind. I reached my hand and felt nothing keeping the water from crashing down on me… I don't know about you but I don't have a scientific explanation for that."
"All magic is just science that we don't understand yet," Barry insisted, "but yeah… that's pretty weird."
Jay leaned back in his chair, "Still, a kid that young, already killing? It's not right Monsters or no monsters. "
Wally chuckled dryly, "That's the craziest part. Mentally he's older than Jay."
The retired speedster nearly choked on his drink. "What? How?"
"it's not really my place to tell the whole story, but I can say that he was stuck in some weird time dilation, and the vast majority of the time was not pleasant. Most of the time he acts as young as he looks, or as close has he can get, but sometimes when you look in his eyes… you can tell. He's seen some shit."
"Wally! Language"! his mother snapped, before his dad put a hand on her arm, "I think it's warranted this time sweetie."
Iris spoke brightly, trying to lighten the mood, "What about the Cyclops, Mr. T."
Wally grinned, "Sweetest guy I've ever met believe it or not, and a hel—heck of a blacksmith and all round handyman."
Jay nodded, "I saw the bridge footage. I'll give it to him that was a nice touch. But why one eye? Was it a birth deformity?
Wally deadpanned, "No, he's a real Cyclops, you know, the Greek kind. He's also immune to heat and has super senses. Not to mention I've seen him go toe to toe with Superman and match his strength."
Joan shivered, "That's… scary. Don't Greek Cyclopes eat people in the myths? I remember something like that in the Odyssey."
Wally shrugged, "He doesn't but he's met some who did. Apparently, he fought Polyphemus himself. But yeah, T wouldn't hurt a fly, he definitely could, but he never would.
"You seem to have a lot of faith in those two." Wally's' dad commented.
Wally nodded slowly, "They have their issues, and we've ad some rough spots here and there, but honestly… I can't help but admire them. You know?"
His mom huffed, "Well as long as you don't go around killing people…"
"Mom!"
Barry rolled his eyes, "Relax I've taught him better than that."
"Thank you!"
His mentor smirked, "What you really need to worry about is the looks I've seen him giving Green Arrow's new protégé. What exactly is going on with you and her?"
As the entire table turned towards him, eager for an answer, Wally sighed In defeat, "This is no longer fun."
Gotham city
The Batcave was louder than normal. It was a rare occasion when Bruce and Dick were in there at the same time, when they weren't working on a case together. Bruce was at the computer, typing away at something or another while Robin clobbered some training dummies. Alfred was upstairs, making them dinner.
Just as he finished a beautiful roundhouse, Dick was caught off guard by the sound of his adoptive fathers voice, "So you gave him a belt?"
Dick cringed. He had taken one of the utility belt basis and used it for Percy's birthday gift… without asking Batman. Honestly it was a miracle Bruce hadn't noticed till now.
"I noticed immediately." Oh, "I didn't say anything because I do trust you and wanted to see what you'd do with it."
Dick looked over at him curiously, "And?"
Bruce turned in his chair to face his son, "It was a wise investment, though I wish you would have asked."
Dick sighed, "I'm sorry Bruce, it was just so last minute, and you were on a case, and afterwards I didn't tell you because—"
"You were afraid of my reaction?" Dick nodded sadly.
Bruce stood up and walked over to his protege, "Only criminals should have to be afraid of me Dick. The worst you would have gotten was a grounding and less nights on patrol but considering who you gave it to I'll make an exception this time."
Dick looked up at his mentor in shock, "Really?"
Bruce smirked, "He's already testing Armor for me. it seems fair."
Dick wasn't convinced. After a moment he asked, "You really trust him huh? Even though he killed somebody?"
Bruce's smirk faded, and he turned away, "Yes. I do."
"Why?"
Brue considered for a moment before answering, "He's killed before, monsters and fellow demigods a like. Yet somehow, he never gets used to it. At least for the demigods. He feels regret for what he did to blockbuster, but he wouldn't hesitate to do it again if he felt he had to. That's the difference between him and I. To me killing is temptation, one that I cannot fall into. To him it's a tool, one that he uses effectively."
"…do you think he should be allowed to kill then?"
Batman didn't respond, instead walking back to his computer and resuming his work."
A day after the Atlantis attack
After docking safely in the cove below Percy and Kaldur made their way upstairs to greet the others. They were a bit disappointed that no one was there to welcome them as they docked, but figured there was a reason,
What they found when they got there was another disappointment ,but also a bit of a relief. No one was at the dock because they were all lined up in front of Batman, wearing their uniforms, except for Tyson that is.
The water-based heroes reluctantly joined them as Batman nodded. "Glad you could join us." He turned to the holographic display, "The Watchtower picked up an immense power surge in the Bialian desert last night. It has since ceased, but it still warrants investigation, under the radar." He looked at Kara and Raven, "This will be your first stealth mission with the team. I'm taking a bit of a gamble letting you participate, considering how little we know of you and how little experience you have. You did well with Clayface but his will require a lot more finesse. "
Raven nodded, returning his gaze steadily, "I won't let you down."
Kara struggled to meet Batman's eyes, "I can do this!"
"Good. However, as a bit of advice: Raven, stick close to M'gann, her powers are the closest to yours, so she should be a good lead to follow." Raven nodded. "Kara, follow Superboy. He might not be as strong, but he already knows his role well." Kara saluted awkwardly, before simply nodding. Batman he turned to Percy, "You will be going into a desert region. I'd advice bringing a lot of water with you."
Percy smirked an shot a finger gun, "Got it, we'll be prepared."
As he finished talking, a little spout of water burst form the tip of Percy's finger, arching immediately downwards, honestly a bit sadly while everyone watched in confusion.
Eventually the spout slowed to a drip before stopping entirely at which point Percy said, "I swear that never happens!"
Chapter 14
Sorry this is so late but not enough that it won't happen again.
Next chapter will be interesting. It will of coursed be based off Bereft, but with the addition of three new members how will that change things? Suspense suspense yada yada
Honestly, I'm more excited about an idea I've been brainstorming recently. it's an original idea for a book series. I think I may have found a way to combine magic, monsters, high school, and lightsabers. Let me know if you want to hear more about it, I would love someone to bounce ideas off of.