Superman/Steven Universe:
The Shield of Hope
(Note: Hello everybody here I am with another update for you to ring in the New Year. This took a lot out of me writing, but with the help of a friend Mysterious Mr. M I was able to bring this to you sooner than expected. If you have a chance please check out his page he has a bunch of cool stories to read, there is even one where me and him are collaborating. Which one is it you'll have to go and find out. ;) I would also like to anounce that I will be posting more art of this story on my deviantart page Gadgetboy197. I have an amaziing new piece created by the talented Littlesnaketail on Deviantart. Check out the art they made for me and then check out their page, they're SU art is amazing. With all that out of the way enjoy the story. :D)
Chapter 16
Steven's world was a blur of colors and sounds. He felt something hit his neck, then he felt started to feel woozy, and now he didn't know what was even going on. He saw blurry figures moving about over him, he was pretty sure he was being carried, and he saw flashes of green, yellow, blue, and red; to name a few colors. Then there was the voices, in his dreary state he could make out a few things said and even guess who was saying them.
"….Get back….." he didn't recognize that one.
"… My son….what are you…. Why….?" That one sound like dad.
"Hey…. My camera….. You can't!" Sounded like Jimmy.
"U.S….. Confidential…..national security." Didn't know that one.
"Let me go…..you can't…who do…." That sound like Amethyst.
"Let him…..aaargh… Steven!" That was Pearl.
"We found….. Unconscious….bring him." Another one he didn't know.
"You don't understand…. We weren't….." Garnet, all his friends the sounded distressed and he didn't know why.
He wanted to help but he was just so tired, and with that darkness took him as he drifted off to sleep.
Beach City, the Next Day
Greg sat inside his Car wash a broken man, it had been almost a full day since they took Steven and the gems and he still had no idea where they took him or why. After the fight the Military swarmed into the small town, drugged Steven, hit the gems with some weird sound cannon, and loaded them all into separate trucks. They also ended up taking the armor that Robo-Pearl left behind, and Superman who washed up on shore unconscious not few minutes after they came. They also offered aid to anyone caught in the fight, but Greg didn't care about all that, he wanted his son. They took him, Lois, and Jimmy and started asking them questions. They asked Greg about Rose, how long he knew her, how old Steven was, if he had ever come in contact with any unknown substances, and if he had come down with any ailments after Steven was born to name a few. Despite his worry Greg remained calm throughout the whole thing answering truthfully to some questions or playing ignorance for others, though admittedly some of it was really his own ignorance. But when they asked him to describe his 'Physical' interactions with Rose that's when he drew the line and demanded answers about his son. Everytime was the same answer.
"He is safe, he has been taken to a facility to be treated, and will be returned to you soon."
It was like this throughout the whole night, the entire town had been put on lockdown, no one in or out, everyone being asked about Steven and the gems. They ended up taking Jimmy's cameras and Lois, well, she acted how Greg felt. Lois was none stop yelling at the soldiers, particularly the one named Corben. She was demanding answers, but not getting any. She was angry and confused, so was Greg. But, while Lois was vocal about it, Greg just didn't know what to do. He currently sat in his Car Wash, with soldiers standing in front of it for 'his protection.' He managed to look out the window to see the various lights coming from the beach. The beach had been entirely closed off as more soldiers and scientist came in, putting up a fence. They were checking the temple, they pulled out all the items and appliances in the house scanning them. And were currently trying to get inside the temple with little success.
This is something Greg and the gems had feared for years that if they got out this would happen. This was their doomsday scenario and they had no plan. The town was being torn apart and Steven was taken to god knows where to have god know what happen to him.
"Rose…. I promised I would take care of our son. And now he's gone and there isn't a damn thing I can do to help him." Greg cursed under his breath as he looked at the soldiers standing outside.
Just then a car pulled up in front of the Car wash and sitting inside was Lois Lane.
"Good Evening Gentlemen, how's the standing going?" Lois said with a sly smile
"Ms. Lane can you please, just not right now." One soldier said defeated.
"What is it tiring making sure this late 30-ish old man doesn't escape this Car Wash." Lois said mockingly.
"Seriously, were just doing are job." One soldier complained.
Greg walked to the door to get a closer look, until he heard a tapping from behind. Greg turned to see Jimmy outside the window, before he could yell Jimmy quickly brought his finger to his mouth, shushing him. Jimmy gestured to the window and for Greg to come. Greg looked behind to see Lois still talking to the guards, Greg the opened the window and with Jimmy's help quickly exited the Car Wash. The two then quietly sneaked along the back running behind the nearest building.
"Way to put our tax dollars to works boys, America will sleep tight tonight." Lois said as she drove off.
"Screw you lady!" One soldier yelled back.
Lois drove down a few blocks before stopping in front of an alley where Jimmy and Greg emerged.
"Get in Universe were going after your boy and your friends." Lois said opening the door to her car.
"R-really?" Greg said in surprise and gratitude.
"Heck yeah we are, come on!" Jimmy said enthusiastically as he jumped in the car.
Greg without hesitation jumped into the passenger seat next to Lois
"Wait isn't the whole town closed off, how are we supposed to get out?" Greg asked
"Oh, I found a few of Steven's friends who were willing to help us out." Lois said with a smirk as she put her foot on the gas pedal.
Meanwhile, at the same time, near the edge of town where a wooden police barricade was setup, Vidalia was holding the hand of her son Onion while they both stood in front of two soldiers; their weapons, magazine's, and radio's on the ground.
"You have to forgive my son, he's always had sticky fingers. You know how kids his age are." Vidalia said with laugh.
"Stealing the weapons, magazines, and radios of U.S. soldiers goes beyond simple childhood antics Miss. You need to seriously discipline your child he could've hurt himself or someone else." The soldier scolded while Onion simply looked up and smiled at him.
Before the soldier could berate her further the sound of a roaring engine filled the streets. Just then Lois car broke through the barricade and zoomed out of town, with Vidalia her son and the soldiers standing on the sidewalk.
"Oh shit!' The soldier yelled, panicked as he reached into the pile and pulled out a radio.
"Attention we had a perimeter breach I need backup, repeat I need…. Wait is this thing even on!?" The soldier said as he began to fiddle with the radio.
Vidalia smiled at her youngest son as Onion returned the smile, he then opened his pocket revealing it to be stuffed with batteries
"What am I going to do with you, Scamp?" Vidalia said with a smile picking up her son
Vidalia watched the car speed down the road out of town and into the horizon with a small smile.
"Go get your boy, Universe." Vidalia said
Lois's car drove down the lonely road at high speeds. Lois had a determined look on her face while Greg and Jimmy looked rather worried about the speed they were currently traveling.
"Lois, slow down, we aren't going to save Steven and the other if we wrap ourselves around a tree." Greg said.
Lois took a breath and slowed the car down still going at a moderate speed.
"Sorry, got a little too into the moment." Lois said breathing.
"Don't worry, that was the second most exciting thing in my life. Are we actually going to break into a Military base?" Jimmy asked excited.
"Wait a Military Base!?" Greg shouted surprised.
"Yep, it's not too far from Metropolis. Camp Davis is a military deployment base, but has also been used for interrogation, experimentation, and weapons manufacturing and testing." Lois stated eyes still on the road.
"You know a lot about this place." Greg said surprised.
"I know two people who spend a lot of time there, and they both are the reason your son was taken away." Lois said seriously.
"What, why, who!? What cold hearted bastards would kidnap a kid." Greg said
"One's my wannabe boyfriend, the other is my father." Lois said simply.
Jimmy let out a surprised "Oooooo" as she sunk into his seat while Greg had a surprised an apologetic look on his face.
"I-I am so sorry-." Greg apologized.
"Don't, Father was a military man always wanted a boy got me and my sister instead. After that he tried to control every aspect of my life, including who I dated, been trying for years to set me up with his right hand stooge John Corben." Lois explained as she continued to drive.
"Lois-I'm sure your father-." Greg said sympathetically.
"Save it Universe, I already heard it all from my sister. Let's keep my personal life out of this, were gonna get your son, the gems, and Superman out of there." Lois said.
"Awesome, so what are we going to do once we get there?" Jimmy asked.
"I can get us inside…. And once there we will work it out" Lois said not really inspiring confidence.
"Oh God." Jimmy said in realization.
"Okay listen, I don't have a plan. But, we need to do something, what they did was wrong. Superman, your son, the gems they did nothing to deserve this. Whatever they are doing cannot be on the books, if I can get some evidence show it to the public get them on our side, we can bring them down. Steven is a definite, but Superman and the gems may be harder. We're gonna need photographic evidence though." Lois said
"Jimmy Olsen Ace Photographer has got your back." Jimmy said pulling out a Camera
"Wait, didn't they take your Camera?" Greg asked confused.
"You think an Ace Photographer like me carries one Camera." Jimmy said with a smile.
"Greg this is gonna be dangerous, if you want out I won't blame ya." Lois said looking at the father.
"He's my boy, what father wouldn't do everything for their child." Greg replied with a smile making Lois smile.
"Steven's lucky to have a dad like you." Lois said as they continued to drive.
"That reminds me whatever happened to Clark, did he get hurt during that fight." Greg asked.
"Superman said he got him to safety, all we can do now is trust him and wish the best for Clark. Right now we have a mission, and I believe Clark would agree with me on this." Lois said.
"Well, maybe not to this extreme, but he is definitely the type who would not stand for this." Jimmy said.
"Clark is a lot braver than he appears." Greg said.
"Yeah, he is." Lois said in contemplation.
Camp Davis, Underground
Pain, head throbbing, vision blurry, focus, figure out where you are.
"How is this possible?"
Room, no natural light, one door sealed tight.
"There is nothing, no heartbeat, no brainwaves, how is this thing able to walk, talk, do…. Anything?"
Your restrained, metal bindings, steel chair.
"Traditional methods aren't working, use the devices I provided and attach them to the stone protrusions on each subject."
You were ambushed, attacked with foreign weapons, brought to their facility.
"Alright we'll…..Oh no!"
They took Steven, need to escape, need to find him.
"She's breaking free!"
Need to find him, Need to save my Baby.
"Hit them again, again!"
Pearl let out a roar as she tore her hand free from the metal chair she was strapped too.
"Yeah Pearl, let's do this." Amethyst yelled as she squirmed in her chair trying to do the same.
"Pearl wait they're going to-!" Garnet warned.
Just as Garnet said that, a loud sound blasted through the entire room bouncing off the wall and hitting the gems in every direction. All three gems let out pained screams that mixed in with the sound as they're forms began to fizzle and crack once more. It was like this before the sound finally stopped and so did the gems stop screaming. They were left panting still restrained on their chairs as the fizzling on their forms slowly stopped.
The room the gems were in was pure white and appeared to be made of metal, with speakers on the corners and ceiling. Each gem was restrained to a metal chair, Pearl and Amethyst had leather straps while Garnet's was metal. While this would usually be easy enough for them to escape they're gems were also restrained. A leather strap went across Pearl's gem pushing it onto the chair, the same with Amethyst, Garnet had her palms up and were covered with metal while her wrists were bound to the chair. On one of the walls was what looked like a mirror, but it was a one way window.
"S-so-are you guys gonna do something-or are you just going- TO KEEP BLASTING YOUR CRAPPY MUSIC!" Amethyst yelled knowing they were being watched
On the other side of the window was a complex observation room filled with machines and charts with various pictures of the gems on them. Many scientists scurried about the room confirming various data, and in the middle of the confusion stood Lex Luthor, stoic and arms crossed, as he looked through the window.
"Dang, I didn't think she could do it, but she tore through those leather straps like…" One of the scientist said until.
"It." Lex interjected
"Excuse me, Mr. Luthor?" The scientist said nervously.
"You referred to 'It' as a she, 'It' has no gender, 'It' is not human. Therefore 'It' and the other 'It's' should be referred to with the correct term 'It.' Just so you know." Lex said not turning around.
"O-Kay." The scientist said simply.
"Replace the thin ones straps with metal in case she tries something else, do the same for the short one." Lex said as the scientist nodded.
Just then soldiers entered the room and proceeded to do what Lex said. Then General Lane entered the room followed by John Corben.
"I must say I was rather upset, and still am, that you tore me away from a very important phone call, but this is almost worth it." Lex said.
"Happy to make the trip worth it, what have you guys got." Lane asked.
"Well nothing sir, we can't take any samples because there's nothing to take. It's like the report said totally inorganic, hopefully with Lex's tools we can get some more information." The scientist said.
"Hmm, and what about the one in blue?" Lane continued.
"Awake, but were keeping him groggy, the flickering lights that's because of him. We put enough volts in him to fry a mountain Gorilla, but there is no tissue damage. That and the nerve agent we're pumping into his room does seem to keep him weakened, though we are unable to take a sample from him as well. His skin is too tough nothing we have can pierce it, we can't even take an X ray it's like his body is blocking us out. Though unlike these three we can safely assume he is organic." The scientist continued
"Never assume anything, friend. I brought some more equipment for him, we'll confirm whether he's organic or not and see just how tough he is." Lex said.
"And what was retrieved from the site?" Lane continued.
"The metal is unknown and so far we got nothing from it, we were unable to find any remains from the larger alien when it was flown into the sky. The clothes these three are wearing aren't really clothes it attached to their bodies, we tried to cut a piece of the thin one's skirt off but it disappeared once it was removed from the rest of the outfit. Blue's clothes are normal bargain brand everyday stuff it'll be nearly impossible to tell where it came from it's so common, he might've got the shirt from a street vendor. Though we can't retrieve any DNA from the clothes, it's like his body isn't leaving anything behind. And the cape with the S on it, is completely indestructible. Nothing tears it we even went to guns and fire it all bounces off it." The scientist continued.
"And the operation on the beach?"
"The beach has been entirely closed, we are currently combing the premise. We haven't found anything of interest yet, but we are still searching. We are yet to break into the sealed area in the back, but with the proper explosives I think." John said.
"That is a last resort Sergeant, until then tell them to keep at it and keep the residence off of the Beach. Now, what about the boy?" Lane said.
"Still sleeping sir, we have kept him sedated. We have been able to take samples from him, blood, hair, and the works. There's nothing strange about any of the samples we got from him it's a pretty normal no alterations or mutations aside from the obvious, everything points to a normal healthy boy. Though when we took the X-ray that's when things got weird." The scientist pointed to the board where an X-ray of Steven sat.
"As you can see he has all the workings heart, liver, lungs, etc. However when we examined his circulatory system he discovered that not only does it connect to his arms and legs it connects to the gem protrusion on his navel as well. We have theories on how it might be connected, but we won't have anything concrete unless we examine the gem further. Which we avoided because of how connected it is to the circulatory system." The scientist said.
"Which you will not do, I believe we have supplied all the data Mr. Luthor will need. Let the boy rest and then send him back to his father, also prepare a check for Mr. Universe. He'll be pissed as hell, but at least that and the return of his son may inspire him to silence." Lane said rubbing his temples.
Lex stood away from Lane, for a moment the intensity returned as he heard what Lane said only for it to disappear shortly.
"Thank you General Lane. I believe since we can't get any Physical data from them, now it's time to see if we can get any information. Bring in the male and the retrieved specimens, it's time to hear them talk." Lex said with a sinister glower.
The gems sat in the room in complete silence, not even the sound of breathing was there.
"Well…. This is the worst case scenario." Amethyst said breaking the silence.
"We should've been prepared for this, we knew it would only be a matter of time before this happened. We thought we covered our tracks, but they knew about us. We didn't even have a way to protect Steven and Greg." Garnet said in disappointment
"This is a nightmare, they have Steven and they're gonna do Stars know what to him. We need to get out of here, we need…" Pearl said as she struggled.
"Pearl they're just gonna blast us again, don't waste the energy." Amethyst said
"STEVEN IS GOING TO BE DISSECTED, I'M GOING TO DO EVERYTHING I CAN TO…" Pearl shouted.
"PEARL, we can't help him in our current situation. They have us right where they want us, we are at their mercy. All we can do now, is wait for an opportunity, and hope for Steven's safety. But we will get out of here and we will save him." Garnet said getting a nod from Amethyst and Pearl sucked in a sob.
"They really care about that kid." one of the scientist said.
"After so long, it appears they have formed an attachment." Lex said simply looking through the window.
"General Lane." One of the scientist said standing up getting everyone's attention.
"I-I can't through with this, what we are doing to these people, this is inhumane. I mean how many laws are we breaking right now?" The scientist said panicked.
"You can only be inhumane to something that is from this planet, what is in there currently is not 'people'. They look like us, but they are not us." Lex stated.
"Yeah, well what about the kid? So, he has a rock where his belly button should be, he still looks like kid and all tests say the same thing: he's a kid. How the hell can we justify that?" The scientist said.
"We don't, you think I'm proud of what I'm doing to that boy son? As far as I'm concerned he has nothing to do with any of this, but us bringing him here was necessary. As of right now he is to be unharmed and will be returned to his father. That boy is an American Citizen and he will not be held here any longer than he needs. They however do not get the same luxury." Lane said looking at the gems.
"General Lane, I know they are not human, but still is this the best way to make first contact with life beyond the stars. If Professor Hamilton was here, he would…" the scientist continued
"Professor Hamilton was trying to leak Government secrets, and the fact he wasn't sent to prison was a fluke. I am leading this division in his absence, every action taken has been gone over and accepted by the General. So if you have a problem with this, the door is right there." Lex said coldly not moving, the scientist looked to Lane.
"Son, I understand your sentiments, but this is something that must be done for our national security maybe even beyond that. But, if you are uncomfortable with what is about to happen, you may leave." The General said, the scientist gave a small nod then left the room.
The scientist walked down the hallway passing two other scientist pushing a cart.
"…. Seriously straight from him?" One asked.
"Yep, Lex Luthor himself, and authorized by General Lane. We gotta get this stuff in the med lab, and get ready." the other said as the passed the scientist who had an intrigued look on his face.
Back in the room, the gems remained in silence until the door opened once again, the soldiers setup a television screen. They then wheeled in something that made the gems gasp, it was Superman looking extremely disheveled. He was strapped to what looked like an electric chair being held by what was thick metal chains. He had a weary look on his face and his eyes were slightly glazed over, as he panted. His shirt was torn in various spots a sleeve was missing, as well as the bottom of his right pants leg. The soldiers wheeled him in close to Garnet and then left the room.
"Hey guys, how's your day so far?" Superman said weakly with a smile.
"Eh, trapped against our will, scientist trying to run test on us, everytime one of us act out of line they blast us with the cursed sound. How about you?" Garnet asked returning the smile.
"Same, but they used electricity and Sarin Gas for me." Superman said trying to laugh
"Have you seen Steven?" Pearl asked worried.
"No, when I came to I was already strapped to this chair. The explosion took a lot out of me." Superman said as Pearl had a look of sadness.
"But, he is alive." Superman continued making all the gems perk up.
"I can hear a heartbeat, coming from deeper in this facility. It's slow and steady. I think they have him sedated, but he is alive." Superman said reassuringly.
"Thank you." Pearl said with a tear rolling down her face.
"So they did they talk to you yet?" Amethyst asked.
"No, but I think that's why I'm here with you." Superman said.
"Correct, this is an interrogation just so you know. And I hope you will all be compliant, the speakers are still primed and your chair is still wired to go. So please just make this easier for everyone." Lex said speaking through a microphone.
"Luthor." Superman said with a hint of anger looking at the window.
"Ah so you know it's me, I guess you're able to see through the glass then." Lex inquired.
"Please, anyone can recognize the slime from your voice." Amethyst said.
"Cute, now we are going to show you various images and ask you questions. You will answer all of them without hesitation. Any attempt at escape will…. You know." Lex continued.
"Where's Steven!?" Pearl shouted.
"The boy is not your concern. I believe your friend has already informed you that the boy is sedated, which I can confirm." Lex continued.
"Let him go." Pearl pleaded.
"The boy is none of your concern, he is being dealt with. You need to focus on the questions." Lex said.
"NONE OF MY- YOU ARROGANT-!" Pearl shouted angrily.
"Pearl calm down." Garnet said in a calming tone, Pearl complied.
"Good to see there is a voice of reason among you. Now let's cut to the chase, your stories are very different, so we'll be taking this one at a time. None of you are human, in fact you are two different species. But we have been watching all of you for a long time. So, ladies first." Lex said.
Then the TV screen turned on, revealing a written parchment.
"Before you is a Journal entry from Leonardo Da Vinci, in it he talks about how he was working one of his experimental flying Machines. Until the cord holding one up snapped and was going to fall on him, he should've died that day. But, a woman and her friends came over to look at his work and I quote, 'The woman who towered over me, with hair dark as the night held up my contraption like it was made of paper, she held a stoic face but I could tell she was happy I was alright,' end quote." Lex said.
The next showed multiple letters.
"These are various letters from soldiers in the revolutionary war on both sides. All are from soldiers who had received fatal injuries and were left on the battlefield to die. All of them mention a giant pink haired women approaching them, all state that she cried over them and that when her tears met their wounds they were suddenly better. Shots that should've killed suddenly vanished and so did the woman." Lex said.
Next it was an image of the Crystal Gems, Rose included, standing next to an elderly looking man.
"This is Joseph Nicéphore Niépce the inventor of the photograph, along with the first that was of himself that was taken in 1826, not two days later this was taken. The women asked for the photo which he gave, but he had also managed to get a copy which he kept for himself. You can see where I'm going with this, you ladies have been around for a very long time.
There have been many written accounts both from years ago, and even today, of people witnessing strange things. One common one is that a group of ladies were seen fighting what appeared to be a monster with various weapons. The monster then disappeared into a puff a smoke, the women then picked up something, a bubble appeared then vanished, and the women left. Believe it or not, the government has been looking into stories like these ever since the 70's but haven't been able to get any more info aside from the testimonies of crackpots and bunker dwellers. That is until I came along and gave them some headway into this." Lex said.
The screen then showed what looked like drone footage of the gems fighting a monster.
"With my Tech I was able to create a small spy drone totally untraceable to the human eye able to capture visual and audible records for hours on end. All we had to do was set one up at a place with known 'monster' sightings and wait. That's how we were to learn a little more about you Garnet, Amethyst, Pearl, and even Steven. We learned of your basic powers such as your hard light weaponry and shapeshifting to name a few. Though nothing compares to the data we got from the water city when you and 'Superman' had your tussle, that and when you wrecked my building." Lex said with a bit of venom as the screen showed footage from both fights.
"You were recording us with a small homemade camera, way to up the creep factor Lex." Amethyst chimed in.
"So you are aware of our lifespan and that we have abilities regular people don't have. That doesn't explain why we're here." Garnet said.
"Well one reason is because of this," Lex said showing more footage of the fights,
"People who can do stuff like this and aren't on a Government payroll, tend to make the people upstairs very nervous." Lex said.
"Those times and everything before was to defend people, we don't mean any harm." Pearl said.
"Yes, that is what you are saying. But, what I am seeing is three people who can summon deadly weaponry, have strength and speed surpassing any known human, and appear to be very well trained with using them. I see foreign soldiers on American soil, waiting for a war to fight." Lex said.
"We aren't soldiers, and there isn't any war. We were just trying to help." Amethyst said.
"No, you are and your waiting for the next battle, I mean you've already fought so many before." Lex said with a smirk, the statement making the gems freeze.
The TV then showed a carved mural it showed what looked like Rose, Pearl, and Garnet standing in front of a large group of people each with a small circular carvings on various parts of their bodies. They faced off against another group with the same carvings though on that side there were carvings of strange devices in the earth and sky over them.
"This was recovered from Taiwan, we put it at about 6,000 years ago. It is said to depict a battle between two massive armies that raged on for weeks. We can clearly tell who those two are, but I'm guessing the one behind you are your comrades. And by the same circular carvings on their bodies they had similar stones protrusions coming out of them just like you. The same for the opposing force though by these carvings they appeared to have more weapons on their side. There is much to pull from this, but the main thing is that there is more of you." Lex said
"For years now the government has been looking into artifacts and sites hidden from the world, but all carrying a similar otherworldly motif. We have found a few, but we are guessing there is more out there we aren't aware of. The water city being one until you destroyed it, and we had plans on examining another sea based sight on that appeared to be a tower but it vanished." Lex said getting a stifled laugh from Amethyst.
"For years the government couldn't tell what the purpose of these sights was until I proposed a theory. That millennia ago during humanities infancy a civil war was fought, not by men, but by alien invaders, who wished to take our planet based on the structures built. A war between beings who could have destroyed the planet as it was easily fought. But then war ended, one half left and the other stayed on Earth, hiding amongst us. The reasons for why this battle started are being debated, but I for one suggested that it was a power struggle, a war over who controlled the planet. But the half that stayed on earth for some reason was decimated save for a few, ancient texts across the world tell about the day the sky turned bright and a song echoed through the world followed by terrible roars." Lex said.
"You have no idea what you are talking about." Garnet said gritting her teeth.
"But, the group that left is still out there in the Universe. Millennia passing, time to bolster their forces and improve the tech that got them here. They are coming back to take the planet away from us." Lex said seriously
"Rose, fought to save the planet you jerk, your information is all janked. And those jerks who left are never coming back." Amethyst yelled angrily.
"That's what all the evidence points to, these cities and facilities built are the most basic of a colonization process, though I guess you all invented that process. And all evidence points to some internal conflict within the invading group." Lex continued.
"You were not there, you don't know anything about that." Pearl said with an offended hiss.
"So you can understand why the Government is nervous about all this, well that and they would also like to know a little more about your allies." Lex said.
"Allies?" Superman said confused taking in everything that was said.
Just then on the screen another artifact was shown it looked like another carving. Rose was on this one as well though she appeared to be covered in a strange green splotch, though it looked intentional like it was covering her. She was backed by the same people with circular carvings, though there were also people who didn't have the circle. There was also more of them converging on the smaller enemy group. Also this time Pearl and Garnet were not depicted as being at her side, there was more and they were all very different. The first was a man who was carrying what looked like a mace and whose carving looked like it had wings. Next was another man but he was wearing a crown and carried what looked like a giant fork. Next carving was of a woman carrying a sword and shield a star on her forehead. After that was a man with a gold head and strange golden symbol behind him. And finally there was a woman all in green who had strange tendrils coming out of her. This group descended on the smaller group and in front of the smaller group was the carving of a large person in yellow holding a broadsword and a diamond shape carved into its chest.
"It appears that your side got some help in their campaign, and they are clearly not from wherever you came. I have own theory on these individuals, but our government wants something a little more concrete. Either way, we have many questions regarding your race, or what took place oh so long ago." Lex said.
"You are stepping into territory you cannot handle. What happened in the past, is in the past. It has nothing to do with what's happening today." Garnet said.
"No, it has everything to do with today, because I am here to make sure history doesn't repeat itself. So that when they return we are ready for them, and don't have to rely on the help of freaks and monsters to defend ourselves." Lex said offending the gems.
"But, like I said that's going to take a while, so for now let's introduce our next subject." Lex said referring to Superman.
The people within the room took vigorous notes of everything said during the exchange. General Lane stood in the back of the room focused on the gems, then one soldier entered the room quietly and walked to the General.
"General, we need you to step outside we have a problem." The soldier said.
"Whatever it is, it can wait. This is too important." Lane said.
"Sir, we really need you to step outside." The soldier said with a hint of worry.
"What in the hell is happening outside that is so goddamn important." John said.
"General Lane… Your daughter is outside right now." the soldier said making the General's eyes widen in shock.
"Lois… but she's supposed to be in Beach City." John said shocked.
"Well she's outside and she's demanding to see you. She's also talking about going to the press about how the U.S. Government authorized the kidnapping of a child." The soldier continued.
"Oh dear Christ, that child-." General Lane groaned pinching the bridge of his nose.
"Let me general." John said as he exited the room leaving the General to his thoughts.
"Well 'Superman' or do you have a less ridiculous name to call yourself." Lex said.
"Nah, I'm kinda starting to like it matches the S and all." Superman said.
"Hmm, anyway we haven't been observing you as long as these three but we do have an impressive dossier on you. At first all we knew was that there were some miraculous rescues across the country and going into Canada, mostly foiled robberies and car accidents averted, all the people saying they saw a blur before these things happened. Nothing concrete and usual crackpot stuff, until the incident in Alaska." Lex said making Superman's ears perk up.
"If you three ever watched the news last year there was a disaster at an oil rig in Alaska, the entire place just went up. Many of the workers on the rig managed to escape, except for a group of 8 workers. They were trapped in a facility that was on fire, and covered in debris, making escape impossible. The emergency services had silently resigned the workers to their fate, seeing how they couldn't get past the rising flames and the debris covering the facility. That was until miraculously a path was opened up in the flames and from the path all 8 workers emerged unharmed. While being tended to each worker swore they saw a man in the fire lift the debris like it was nothing and then parted the fires with his breath. Of course this was passed off has delusions due to the heat, but we know better don't we." Lex said.
"Yes, that was me." Superman said simply.
Outside, Lois was currently talking the ear off the soldier standing at the gate with Greg and Jimmy warily behind her. She finally stopped when John Corben arrived.
"Lois, you're not supposed here." John said.
"Oh great you're here, well at least that means my dad here, because your tailing behind him." Lois said annoyed.
"So cold, not even a hello hug. I mean were exes but…" John said.
"That awkward mess my dad called a dinner does not count as a date. We are not exes, we are acquaintances much like me and Samuel. Speaking of which I would like to speak to him." Lois said
"Your Dad is right you know, we'd be good together. Settling down. Having a few kids. Maybe that would clear your head of the insanity you've surrounded yourself in. This being an excellent example." John said.
"I'm kinda focusing on my career right now John, so no thank you. Right now my father needs to answer for the innocent people you have locked inside there." Lois said pointing to the facility behind John.
"Well maybe I could temper your ridiculous crusade about spreading 'The Truth'. Not everything is some giant conspiracy that the world needs to know about Lois. A reporter can't change the world. The town was put in lock down for its own protection and you and your friends are going to be sent back there. I'll talk to you later about…" John continued.
"I don't want to hear your rehearsed drivel Corben, if you aren't going to bring my father out then I'm going to…." Lois said as she pushed past John only for him to grab onto her wrist.
"DON'T, dismiss me, Lois." John hissed with a hint of anger his grip tight around her wrist.
"John. You're hurting me." Lois with a wince
"Um, excuse me." Greg said tapping on John's shoulder tearing his attention away from Lois allowing her to escape.
"Um, hi I'm Greg Universe. I not sure of your history with Ms. Lane, but I'm here in regards to my son and his guardians. I think there's been a huge misunderstanding, Mister…" Greg said trying to break the tension.
"Corben. Sergeant Corben." John said extending his arm.
"Well Sergeant its n-aaaaaaaaa-ice to meet you." Greg said as John shook his hand his grip tight.
"Hey man stop being such a dick." Jimmy said.
"And you are?" John said looking at Jimmy and letting Greg go.
"Jimmy Olsen, you guys took my camera." Jimmy said accusingly.
"And it appears we missed one." John said simply making Jimmy bring his Camera close to his chest.
"Stand down Sergeant I'll handle this." General Lane said walking up to the three as John saluted.
"Well finally decided show up." Lois said gesturing to her father.
"Hello Dear." the General said in a soft tone.
"Hello Samuel" Lois said making the General wince a bit.
"Let's cut to the chase, you are currently holding 5 innocent people against their will in that facility. And don't pull this misdirection crap with me I was there, I watched you stick a dart into the neck of a child and drive him off in a truck away from his father. Who is right here." Lois said gesturing to Greg nursing his hand.
"H-hi I'm-" Greg said this time warily.
"Gregory Universe, I know who you are sir. General Samuel Lane. I know my daughter probably talked you into this extreme, but you are here about your son." Samuel said
"YES, listen this is some huge misunderstanding. My son has done nothing wrong, and I believe what you have done is incredibly heinous." Greg said upset.
"I am aware our action are concerning, but I will let you know sir that your son is alright. He is not under arrest or anything, he will be released back to you today, and you will be compensated for your troubles." Lane said as Greg let out a sigh of relief happy to hear his son was alright.
"Wow money, that's such a good way to say 'Sorry I drugged and Kidnapped your son'." Lois said annoyed.
"Lois you don't understand what's happening, this is a matter of national security." Samuel replied.
"Oh, don't spew that nonsense at me. The gems and Superman did nothing wrong, they saved my life and the lives of everyone in Lex's tower and in beach city. They are heroes, and you don't have the right to treat them like this." Lois said.
"Lois they are dangerous. I've seen what they are capable of when they really let loose. If they were to unleash the power in a populated area it would be catastrophic." Samuel said remembering the footage of the battle the gems and Superman in the water city of Aqua-Firma.
"Well they didn't and they wouldn't, they are good people. Can you stop looking through your pessimistic telescope for just a minute and actually look at the world around you." Lois argued getting increasingly upset
"THEY AREN'T PEOPLE LOIS, they aren't even from this planet!" Samuel yelled back making Lois and Jimmy freeze while. Greg looked really uncomfortable.
"What?" Jimmy said confused.
"They are aliens Lois, all four of them. I mean did you actually believe a human could do what they do, they aren't like us." Samuel argued to his daughter.
"T-that doesn't matter. It doesn't change what they did." Lois argued back with a bit of hesitation.
"And I'm worried about what they will do. You saw what happened yesterday those two armored monsters looked just like two of your 'friends'." Samuel continued.
"And if you had any sense you could easily see they weren't on the same side, the Crystal Gems and Superman were fighting them. If there's anything you should be investigating it's where they came from." Lois said.
"And that is what I am trying to do Lois." Samuel said.
"By kidnapping and interrogating the people who defended us." Lois said.
"General, I've known the gems for a very long time. And I admit they can be a little much and sometimes not entirely aware of the damage they can cause. But, they are kind and they wouldn't do anything to intentionally hurt anybody." Greg said
"Intentional or not, that is a chance this country cannot take. I'll return your son Mr. Universe, but the gems and Superman are staying here." Samuel said authoritatively
"Excuse me General." a soldier said walking up to him.
"Sweet Christ, what is it now?" Samuel said annoyed.
"Did you authorize a Gastric Bypass Surgery in the lower level?" The soldier asked.
"What?" Samuel said confused.
"Well I was down there and a scientist wanted to know if the surgery on an individual was authorized by you. Because they are getting ready and apparently you gave Luthor the okay." The soldier said.
"I did not authorize any such…." Samuel began but stopped in realization.
"Luthor is here?" Lois said listening in.
"I did not authorize this surgery, you get down there and stop them right now." He said pointing to the soldier.
"Lois, you and your friends are going back to Beach City until further notice." Samuel said pointing to the three.
"Corben with me, we are going to have a serious talk with our benefactor." Samuel said with a growl as he walked back to the base.
"Wait, what about my son?" Greg said worried.
"Dad, dad, what is going on inthere." Lois said as she followed him wanting answers.
"Does the word Krypton mean anything to you?" Lex asked, the gems looked at Superman curious for his answer.
"Noble gas, Number 36" Superman said simply.
"On the periodic table, yes, yes. So you are semi-intelligent, at least." Lex said with a smirk.
"Is he really from Krypton, why hide it now?" Garnet thought wondering the origins of the man next to her.
"You appear to be, physically at least in your twenties, I'd put at 25, maybe older. It was 25 years ago that the Coconino National Forest in Arizona was hit by a surprise Meteor shower. It came out of nowhere, striking in the center of the forest, witb most of the debris slamming against a mountain and into the forest itself. Not that the tech was very good back then, but no satellite was able to notice this thing until it was already in the atmosphere." Lex continued.
"A meteor shower, 25 years ago, Arizona. Why does that sound familiar?" Pearl thought.
"The military immediately swooped in to the area to take care of the growing forest fire, but that was only a cover. We were there to retrieve what had crashed, and what we found amazing. We know what you are. And we know what that Rocket really is." Lex said seriously..
"Rocket?" Superman whispered out
"A Rocket, then he has to be from Krypton. There is too much here to be a coincidence." Pearl thought.
"It's a bullet aimed at this planet, am I right? Fired from an alien gun light years away. Holding an alien weapon, meant to infiltrate and destroy. Maybe it's just a coincidence you came to a planet where we already had an alien problem, or maybe your two races are connected. I am curious, but that's not the point right now. You can see how the idea of an indestructible shape-shifting alien soldier might make us nervous." Lex said
"I'm sorry, is he talking about you or us?" Amethyst asked confused.
"You've managed to hide amongst us, even mimic us for years. Bet you figured it would be easier for the planet to accept you as some kind of savior if you looked like us. But you can drop the act and the disguise now. We already know what you look like thanks to your friend you left behind in that crash." Lex said
"Left behind! There are more Kryptonians on Earth?!" Garnet thought her eyes widening.
"It's something like this right? Isn't this one of your kind in its natural State?!" Lex shouted as the Screen turned on once again
This time it showed some weird looking organism wrapped in a silver blanket and inside an air tight see through box. It had six hooved legs, ears on the top of its head, and a gnarled horn on its forehead. It had bulging black eyes, and brownish fur that looked damp, and was dead for a long time. The gems and Superman stared at the screen and the creature on it in complete silence looks of bewilderment on their faces.
"What in the name of the Crystar is that is thing?" Pearl said confused looking at the creature
"I-is that a Kryptonian?" Amethyst said equally confused
"he-hehehehe-Hahahahaha-HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Superman began to laugh hysterically surprising everyone in and out of the room
"Stop doing that." Lex said angrily clenching his fist and gritting her teeth
"I'm all up for a laugh, but mostly when I understand what we're laughing at what is that?" Amethyst said annoyed
"Inside Joke, you wouldn't get it." Superman said as his laughing subsided.
"Hit them. Hit them all now." Lex ordered.
"Um sir-." one of the scientist said nervously.
"I look just like everybody else Luthor. Except my eyes don't just absorb radiation like yours do. They emit all kinds. Like the microwaves that just cooked your equipment." Superman said with a smirk as Garnet noticed the hint of red in his eyes.
"I said HIT THEM NOW!" Lex ordered angrily.
"We can't sir, nothing working!" A scientist said panicking as he tapped on the keyboard.
"The circuits are fried!" Another said as she pulled open a desktop smoke coming out of it
"What did you do?" Pearl said hearing the anger in Luthor's voice.
"I can control those beams I shot from my eyes, I can make them big and hot enough to melt steel. Or I can make them so small and weak that nobody can see them, but they are hot enough to melt through copper with enough time." Superman said with a smirk
"Luckily chrome-dome loves the sound of his own voice." Amethyst said with a smile.
"Very clever, now let's get our Steven back." Garnet said as she narrowed her three eyes with a confident smirk.
With a roar both Superman and Garnet broke the chains that held them sending pieces across the room as they stood up. Superman went to help Pearl and Amethyst out of their chairs while Garnet ripped the metal chair that held her from the ground and lifted it over her head. Lex let out a panicked yell as he and many others dived out from the front of the window as Garnet threw the chair through it shattering it. The chair slammed into the wall embedding in it as all the scientists all ran out of the room, all accept Lex who began to collect himself. Lex looked up in wide eyed shock as both Superman and Garnet stood before him with serious looks in their eyes.
"Thank you, for your hospitality Mr. Luthor." Superman said in a serious tone.
"But, now I think it's time for you to answer our questions." Garnet said as she summoned another visor to cover her eyes.
Before Lex could say anything Pearl rushed past Superman and Garnet surprising them, Pearl then grabbed Lex by his suit collar and his pants waist. With a look of pure anger and a roar to match it she flipped Lex upside down and pinned him against the wall. She press her nose against his gritting her teeth.
"WHERE IS MY BABY!?" Pearl shouted directly into Lex's face.
"YEAH GO CRAZY PEARL!" Amethyst yelled entering the room.
Lex was silent with a surprised look on his face as Pearl held him upside down "You think you're his mother." Lex replied as his face turned blank.
A growl could be heard in Pearl throat as her grip tightened, then Garnet put her hand on Pearl's shoulder.
"Calm down Pearl, we'll find him." Garnet said.
Pearl took a breath but still held onto Lex.
"I think I can find him, I can still hear his heartbeat. I think I can track it." Superman said as he brought his hands to his ears and began to listen intently.
Pearl face brightened as she dropped Lex letting him fall onto his head.
"You can." Pearl said with hopeful eyes as Super gave her a smile and a nod.
"Well what are you waiting for lead the way." Amethyst said with a toothy smile
In the floor below where Superman in the gems were, Steven laid unconscious on an operating table. His shirt was neatly folded and rested on a table, he had a breather on that was feeding him gas to keep him asleep, and on his bare belly were small trace lines made with marker. Three surgeon surrounded him setting up various things a small table with various surgical equipment, a camera, and a pencil and paper.
"I think this is everything we need." One surgeon said.
"Not gonna lie this is probably the strangest operation I will ever do." The next surgeon said looking at Steven's gem.
"Just so were all on the same page, I'm not the only one who's having serious reservations about performing this on a kid right?" Another asked nervously.
"We have our orders, the General authorized this, and Luthor wants clear pictures of the child's anatomy around the rock. We'll make a circular incision around the protrusion and four smaller ones coming from to away from it. We open the belly take the needed photos and note, and seal it back up again. Aside from having some kickass stitches, the kid will be fine." The surgeon said as he picked up a surgical knife.
Just then an alarm rang out throughout the room startling the surgeons
"The prisoners have escaped their restraints, this is a code red, repeat code red." The voice over the speaker said.
"Oh shit, we gotta get out of here." One of the surgeons said.
"What about the kid?" Another asked.
"Carry him, we'll bring him to the safe zone and…." Another started but was stopped when the door to the room flew off its hinges and slammed against the wall.
The three Surgeons looked on in shock as Superman and the Crystal Gems entered the room staring them down. The room was silent for a whole minute everybody just staring at each other. One surgeon's arms slowly began to reach towards a silent alarm, until his eyes met Amethyst and she gave him a slow disapproving nod making him retract his arm.
"Drop everything you have now." Garnet said sternly making all the surgeon raise their hands dropping whatever was in them currently.
"Foreheads on the ground, don't scream." Garnet ordered next which they all happily did without question.
The gems then immediately ran to Steven removing the breather and cradling him in their arms.
"Oh my baby, my baby, what did they do to you?" Pearl said with tears of joy rolling down her face.
"Come on Steven it's us, wake up man." Amethyst said shaking him as he let out a groan.
"He's been sedated, he'll be out for a while." Garnet said.
"She's right, we need to get moving now." Superman said tossing Steven's shirt to Pearl, which she ended up putting on him.
"Right, can you fly us out." Pearl said
"I can't" Superman said as he peeked out into the hall
"Why not? We just hold onto you, you burst through the ceiling, and boom we're outta here." Amethyst said pointing up.
"I just can't yet, we need to get topside. It's only 12 pm so the sun should be high in the sky." Superman said as he looked at a clock that hung on the wall.
"What's so important about sun, why can't you fly us out?" Amethyst asked agitated.
"That's not important right now, we need to find a way out." Garnet said as she heard the sound of approaching footsteps.
"Pearl take care of Steven, Amethyst you disarm anyone who come close enough, Superman you and me are the shields." Garnet ordered as they all nodded.
First Superman and Garnet ran out of the room facing a wall of soldiers with guns pointed at them.
"FREEZE!" A soldier yelled.
Superman's eyes turned red as a thin red beam shot out of his eyes hitting one of the soldier's guns. The gun then turned red and the soldier let out a pained scream as he dropped the smoking gun onto the floor.
"OPEN FIRE!" The soldier yelled as they all rained bullets upon the two.
Garnet summoned her Gauntlets to block the bullets while Superman simply took them more holes appearing on his shirt. Amethyst ran out of the room, whip ready, and launched it between the two wrapping it around one of the soldier's guns tearing it from his hands and then using it to knock two more guns from other soldier's hands. Pearl than ran out cradling Steven and running down the hall as Superman and Garnet shielded her.
"Move back." Garnet yelled as she continued to block bullets stepping back as she did.
This went on with Garnet and Superman blocking bullets, Amethyst disarming soldiers, and Pearl keeping Steven safe. Though with each soldier that was disarmed more showed up and then some appeared in front of Pearl guns raised, though they didn't fire when they saw she was carrying Steven. Pearl reacted fast kicking down the nearest door.
"In here, hurry!" Pearl yelled as she ran inside.
"We're gonna need an opening!" Amethyst yelled as she ran inside after Pearl.
Both Superman and Garnet nodded as they both went back to back arms raised. Then they both unleashed sonic claps knocking the soldier back, before they both ran into the room as well. The room had two mini guns aimed at Superman's cape which was currently propped up in the middle of the room illuminated. Amethyst ran up and unhooked the cape.
"I think this is yours." Amethyst said tossing the cape to Superman.
"Thanks, where to now?" Superman said as he put on his cape.
"Straight." Garnet said as she punched down a wall and ran into the next room.
The three followed her as Garnet opened up a path punching walls and running through many room, even passing some very surprised people. They ran through 7 different rooms, until Garnet suddenly stopped at the 8th.
"Why'd you stop Garnet?" Amethyst said worried.
"What's wrong?" Pearl asked still holding Steven as he groggily opened his eyes still out of it.
"Sp-spaceship." Steven slurred out pointing to the center of the room they were in
Everyone looked to where Steven was pointing and for a moment forgot they're peril. In the center of the room suspended in the air by wires was what obviously was a spaceship. It was small looking like it could hold one person, it was blue and red with a curvy design, and across the whole thing was various unreadable symbols decorating it. The whole thing was immaculate glistening off the overhead lights
"What is that?" Amethyst asked in awe
"That's a-." Pearl said but then noticed Superman walking past them and towards it.
"So this is where you've been." Superman said softly as he went to touch it.
"Is this yours, but it so small how did-." Garnet started but stopped when Superman touched the ship. The ship then started to glow brightly illuminating the entire room nearly blinding everyone. Then a female voice rang out through the room coming from the ship.
"Ha-la. Ha-la-Kal-El-Don-Jor-El-Va-Lara-Lor-Van-Vox-El. El-Kor. El-Krypton. El-Rao. El-Eoeo. Kal-El." The voice said softly.
"What's happening who's saying that." Amethyst yelled as she shielded her eye.
"I'll come back for you." Superman said with a soft smile as the glow dissipated. Then the room was silent.
"What was that, are you from Krypton, is that your ship. Why are you here, what is your purpose?" Pearl asked confused
Before Superman could answer another voice stopped him.
"20 years." A voice said.
The team turned to see the scientist who left the interrogation earlier.
"20 years of nothing from that thing, and with a single touch it came to life. Professor Hamilton was right, you are the key." He said amazed.
"Who are you?" Garnet said sternly.
"Go down this hall and take a left, you'll find a private elevator that will take you topside. The code to get it going is 1397." The scientist said pointing down the hall.
"Why are you helping us?" Pearl asked holding Steven closer.
"Because what we are doing it wrong, not just for the kid, but this isn't how our first contact should be. I mean I understand if you were hostile, but… I think you guys showed you're everything but." The scientist said with a nervous smile.
The gems said nothing until they heard more footsteps approaching.
"I'm willing to take a chance." Amethyst said running past the man.
Pearl the made her way past him to.
"Th-thank you." Steven slurred out with a smile making the man smile.
Garnet was next giving him a nod and then running down the hall. Superman was next
"Thank you so much." Superman said with a smile as he followed.
"Emil, wanted to meet you so much." the whispered though Superman did catch it, his thoughts on the scientist Emil Hamilton.
(Note: Heck of a chapter huh, things are getting heated up. And I can't wait to see all the reviews asking about that carving. I won't give anything away just yet, but I'll tell you this. If the gem war took place on DC's Earth even if it was 5000 years ago, well it wasn't exactly defenseless back then. ;)
If you like the story leave a review and I will reply ASAP. Until next time everybody. :D