A/N: Happy belated holidays, everyone! Nothing says timely like a chapter set on Thanksgiving published two days after Christmas and the day after Hannukah, right? Bit of a straightforward one here, so sit back and enjoy!
All the usual credits apply.
The Watchtower, Geosynchronous Orbit Above Earth, November 24th, 06:16 EST
The sun just crested over the curvature of the Earth, the sun's rays illuminating the Watchtower as Captain America stared out over the planet. "Something on your mind?" A voice asked, the Sentinel of Liberty turning to see Wonder Woman approaching him.
"Just taking in the view. I never seem to get tired of it." He remarked as Wonder Woman stood next to him.
"From up here, one could hardly believe things seem so fragile. You would hardly believe that it could all fall apart at any moment."
"It always puts things in perspective for me. Up here, our problems don't seem so significant in the grand scheme of things. It's why I'm convinced that no matter what, we'll be able to put our differences aside and work towards a greater good," Captain America stated, earning a chuckle from Wonder Woman. It was that kind of idealism that had first captured her attention when they first met in World War II, the same one that led to their romantic relationship.
"Steve? Diana?" A familiar gruff voice stated, the two turning to see Batman standing in the doorway to the Atrium. "Everyone's here."
"Thank you, Bruce." Captain America thanked the Dark Knight before the three headed into the meeting room. Gathered in the room was Superman, Captain Marvel, both Green Lanterns, The Flash, Shazam, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Hawkeye, Mockingbird, Green Arrow, Black Canary, Red Tornado, Hawkman and Hawkwoman, The Wasp, Iron Man, Martian Manhunter, Aquaman, Doctor Strangefate, Zatara, and Black Panther. They didn't gather often, unless the earth was in grave danger. Most of the time, heroes would be called in as the situation called for it, so for them all to be gathered in one place, it had to be a special occasion.
They were the Justice League, Earth's Mightiest Heroes.
"Thank you all for coming. I know it's early, and you've all got plans today. Our agenda, and what's at stake, is clear." Captain America began.
"The decisions today will reverberate for years to come, and will influence whether or not the world continues to place their trust in us." Wonder Woman stated, as Batman stepped forward.
"Please, take your seats. We have work to do."
Chapter 27: Agendas
"I think we should carefully consider all our options." Martian Manhunter began, all 24 members gathered around the table. "Another expansion of the League could trigger another wave of hostilities from our enemies. No one wants another Masters of Evil."
"Valid points, ones well worth considering. However, remember that we can always vote no on all candidates, like we have in the past." Superman spoke up, typing on his holographic keypad. "With that said, I'll kick us off. I nominate Icon for membership." The Man of Steel stated, as a holographic presentation of Icon appeared before them.
"What, cause you think he might be another Kryptonian like you did when you scouted Sparkle Fingers over here?" Hawkeye asked, causing Shazam's ears to perk up.
"Wait, you thought I was a Kryptonian?"
"Icon's not kryptonian, I've verified that myself. And in the course of my investigation, I found someone who's a paragon of selflessness, a real example I think people can look up to."
"I've met Icon once or twice, he's a great guy. But do we really need another powerhouse?" Green Arrow spoke up. "I mean, over a third of the people in this room can bench press buildings like they're nothing. Like J'onn said, strength invites challenge."
"And strength also dissuades challengers." Hawkman spoke up. "The more might we wield, the more likely we are to discourage potential upstarts."
"Sounds a lot to me like ruling through fear."
"I prefer to think of it as being proactive."
"And here we go again…" Hawkeye muttered, as Green Arrow and Hawkman began to argue, and Spider-Man slid five dollars to Flash under the table.
"Wasn't even five minutes…"
"At least they waited until someone made a nomination this year…"
Mount Justice, 10:25 EST
"Gobble gobble!" Wally remarked, reaching over to grab a small handful of stuffing…
Only for a telekinetically carried spatula to whip him on the wrist. "Ow!"
"That's for dinner, Wally!" M'gann scolded from the other side of the kitchen, lifting out a pan of casserole.
"Are you sure? There's enough food in here to feed three Wally's." Laura remarked, helping T'zari prep the next turkey for the oven, the Wakandan prince putting on plenty of seasoning.
"If we let him start, there's no telling when he'll stop. I've seen him inhale half the pantry after a mission before." T'zari remarked, as Francis and Kaldur both entered, hands filled with groceries.
"Man, it is all kinds of crazy out there. Almost had to beat an old lady with a stick for these Cranberries." Francis half-joked, setting the groceries on the table.
"And I thank you for your service." M'gann thanked, giving her boyfriend a kiss on the cheek as she sorted through the groceries. The group's resident speedster took advantage, zooming by and taking a handful of cranberries. "Wally!"
"Sorry, gotta jet! My dad'll kill me if I'm late!" He teased, racing off towards the Zeta Tubes as a spatula was telekinetically chucked at him.
"You better have washed your hands!" M'gann called after him, as Francis glanced at his watch.
"I gotta get going myself. My mom's family's coming into town, and she'll kill me if I'm not home by the time they get there, and I've still gotta drop that stuff off at Carter's." He remarked, gesturing over at the care package of food the Team had prepared for the Alenko family. "Laura, you wanna give me a hand with these?"
"Sure, give me a minute." The mutant called out, looking over to Connor on the couch, watching his static. "Connor, you wanna tag in?"
"After what happened the last time I got in the kitchen? I'll pass." The Teen of Steel commented, as Laura sighed.
"Here, I shall tag in for you, Laura." Kaldur volunteered. "Do you not have plans of your own?"
"Debbie invited me for lunch with her and Megan, but that's on the West Coast, so not for another few hours. I've got time." The mutant brawler explained, as Kaldur looked at Superboy.
"And you? I thought Cassie would have invited you to hers."
"She would have, but she and her mom are going to visit their family. Didn't feel like the kind of thing I could crash."
"Makes sense. Meeting the girlfriend's family's always a big step." Francis commented, as he and Laura gathered up the care package. "Later, guys!"
"Have fun! Give Carter our best!" M'gann called after him as the two went to the Zeta Tube. Connor couldn't help but sigh hearing them retreat.
He had to admit, he was having a little trouble grasping the concept of Thanksgiving. Not the history or the meaning, Cadmus had made sure to load him up with plenty of history. But the idea of having family around, people who could invite him to spend time with them… it was a strange concept to him, especially considering his interactions with Superman were still few and far between. Everyone else had a family to belong with, even Vision would be invited by Red Tornado to pass out food to underprivileged families, but he had no one…
"Superboy. Can you hear me?" He winced as the high pitched whine assaulted his ears, the voice it carried echoing in his head. Superboy looked up, taking note that none of his friends seemed to notice it either. "With Superman off-world, and X-23 indisposed, you're the only thing not on four legs that can hear this for 50 miles." The Voice stated. "Meet me in Washington DC, East Potomac Park. Don't take the Zeta Tubes, and don't mention this to anyone. Come alone." And with that, the whine vanished, like it had never been there.
Superboy's first thought was that this was some sort of trap. Some sort of trick by an enemy of Superman's to lure him into some sort of ambush, to use as leverage against the Man of Steel. According to Robin, that was something villains always tried to do with those they perceived as sidekicks.
But this was disproved by the next thought, which was that the list of people who knew who he was was a small list, and even smaller still when one counted those who weren't still in prison. Second, whoever was on the other end of that message was knowledgeable enough to know where the Cave was, or at least its general location. Not surprising, as Kid Flash had explained that the Cave was semi-public knowledge after The Joker found it not long after the League was formed.
And thirdly… Connor was interested. If they knew who he was, they knew what he was capable of. And not just anyone was bold enough to flat out invite him to where the ambush would be.
With his reasoning justified, Connor got up, heading to the garage. "Where are you headed?" M'gann asked, and the Teen of Steel thought up an excuse.
"Just out for a drive. Figured that's better than just sitting around." Not exactly a lie. But not exactly the whole truth, either…
Justice League Watchtower
"Yellowjacket? Are you serious?" Captain Marvel spoke up, as the League stared at a holographic representation of the size-changing hero Yellowjacket. "Janet, after everything he put you through-"
"No one remembers it more clearly than me, Monica. But Hank's gotten help, he's on meds, and he's genuinely remorseful for what he did. If there's anyone who has a right to give him a second chance, it's me. And I think he's earned it." Wasp explained.
"Be that as it may, even on Pym's best days, he wasn't exactly the best team player." Iron Man remarked, as a holographic representation of The Atom appeared before him. "If we're looking at size changers, my pick is The Atom. I've known him for years, in and out of suit, and there's no one you'd rather have watching your back."
"And no one else you'd rather have backing all your science talk." Hawkeye remarked. "I'm not saying that The Atom isn't dependable, but the last thing we need up here is another egghead tossing around his PhD's. If we gotta have another size changer, my pick is the new Ant-Man, Scott Lang." The archer explained, a representation of the aforementioned hero appearing before him.
"Wait, there's a new Ant-Man? Did I miss a newsletter?" Spider-Man asked.
"I'm familiar with him. Scott Lang, a former convict who stole Hank Pym's original Ant-Man equipment eight months ago to rob banks." Batman stated.
"So he could get money to save his daughter from that psycho Crossfire. Pym himself let Scott keep the suit after the whole mess was sorted, even upgraded it for him. Besides, all the money was insured anyway. I've met him, and the guy's got the biggest heart I've ever seen. Pun intended."
"And the stickiest fingers. He was convicted for burglary, was he not?" Hawkwoman commented.
"Only because the guys he robbed were charging their customers an arm and a leg for the medications they needed. Every cent he took ended up going to people who needed it, not him." Hawkeye explained. "Guy's smart as a whip, too. Street smart and book smart, what's a better combo?"
"Still, I am concerned by his criminal record…"
"He wouldn't be the first person at this table who's done things they ain't proud of." Wolverine commented, a sentiment echoed by Hawkeye and Iron Man. "A second chance goes a long way for someone who's earned it."
"Look, I'm not one to disagree that good things come in small packages. But I also don't think we should discount having a little more raw power floating around, especially now that Thor's gone back to Asgard." Flash spoke up. "We've got Hal and John, but they're always being called away. And we can't rely on Alan to keep coming out of retirement." The Scarlet Speedster explained, as a holographic representation of a certain redheaded Green Lantern appeared before them. "Earth has three Green Lanterns. I think we should reach out to Guy Gardner-"
"No."The chorus echoed around the table, catching Barry off guard.
"But-"
"No." The entire table reiterated, causing Flash to sink into his chair.
"Okay then…"
Potomac Park, 11:28 EST
The Supercycle performed its third circling of the Park as Superboy surveyed it with his infrared vision. Once he was satisfied that there was no ambush waiting for him, the Supercycle landed at the arranged location. As soon as he did, a white limousine pulled up, earning a set of narrowed eyes as Mercy Graves stepped out of the driver's seat. He watched as she headed towards the back, opening it and allowing the occupant to step out. Superboy had never met him before, but even he could immediately recognize the shining bald head of…
"Lex Luthor. Pleasure to meet you." Luthor greeted, extending his hand, only for Superboy to fold his arms.
"I know who you are, Luthor."
"I see my reputation precedes me. What you might not know is that I'm the new chairman of the board at Project Cadmus." At the mention of Cadmus, Superboy's eyes narrowed.
"Color me shocked to find you all over that. Get tired of slumming it in Canada and decide to focus on something closer to home?"
"Why, I'm sure I don't know what you mean."
"Don't play dumb with me. After we leveled the Facility, Iron Knight dug a little closer. Transigen belongs to LexCorp. Rice, Kimura, the Facility… they were all on your payroll."
"Ah yes, that whole nasty bit of business with X-23. I can assure you, I had nothing to do with that."
"Bull! We found the records."
"Records that indicate that Transigen was a subsidiary of LuthorCorp, the predecessor of LexCorp. You see, my dearly departed father, Lionel, was quite interested in the potential of the X-Gene, and worked closely with Department H to study it. Transigen was one such project, and when I inherited the company following his untimely death, I also inherited Transigen. I'm sure the records the young Mr. Stark found would have shown many discrepancies, as I was deceived about the true nature of the late Dr. Rice's work. It's a big company, and I can't be expected to pay equal attention to every project." At Luthor's explanation, Superboy listened to the beat of his heart, listening for any sort of irregularity… and heard nothing. So either Luthor was telling the truth… or he was a really good liar.
"Alright, fine. I still don't want anything to do with you, or Cadmus."
"Even the new Superclone they've created?" Superboy had just begun to turn around when Luthor's words stopped him in his tracks, something that drew a smirk out of Luthor, one that went away as Superboy turned around.
"You're lying. I was their only success."
"Successes need to be replicated. It's one of the basic rules of science." The billionaire stated.
"Say I believe you. Why are you telling me?"
"Because it's gone missing. And unlike the case with you, I don't know where this one is." Luthor stated. "Surely I don't need to tell you of all people what that kind of power could do in the wrong hands?" Superboy still looked unsure, only for Luthor to turn around and get in his car.
"Where are you going?"
"Act on the information, or not. It makes no difference to me." Luthor stated, as the door shut. "Happy hunting."
Project Cadmus
Alarms blared throughout the rebuilt facility, as armed men ran up the stairs, opening the door to the roof… and aiming their weapons at Superboy, standing there with his arms crossed and staring up at the security camera.
"Nice job on the rebuild, Guardian! Can barely tell this was a smoking crater a few months ago." Superboy commented, unfazed by the men pointing guns at him. "Now, escort me down the easy way…"
"...or I'll escort myself down the hard way." Superboy's voice said through the monitor, Guardian frowning as Dubbilex and Spence approached him.
"You're not thinking of letting him down, are you?" Spence asked.
"Well, either we let him down, or he knocks again. And I don't think he's going to be so polite next time." Guardian stated, turning to Dubbilex. "What's the status of the missing Genomorphs?"
"Two more have disappeared in the last 48 hours." The Genomorph scientist stated, and Guardian frowned.
"Any clues?"
"None. As usual, there are no traces at the disappearance site."
"We need to figure this out, Dubbilex. If the League finds out we're misplacing living weapons…"
"They'll be the least of our worries…" Spence muttered as the door opened, revealing an irate Superboy.
"Where is it?"
"Welcome home, Superboy. If we'd known you were coming, I'd have baked a cake." Guardian commented. "Now… where is what?"
"The new Superclone."
"Brother, you are the only Superclone in Cadmus." Dubbilex reassured, followed by a nod from Spence.
"He's right. All cloning projects, both human and Kryptonian, were suspended after your escape."
"After my liberation." Superboy corrected, earning a nervous gulp from Spence.
"R-right. Well, I need to get back to my lab. I have sensitive experiments…" Superboy watched her leave, only for Guardian to stand up.
"I hate this job…" Guardian sighed, removing his helmet to run his hand through his hair… to reveal the spitting image of a familiar face.
"Red Arrow?!" Superboy blurted out, earning a chuckle from the red-haired hero.
"Close. That's Roy you're thinking of. I'm Jim. Jim Harper." Jim greeted, much to Connor's shock.
"Sorry. It's just… you look just like him."
"Well, he is my nephew, so that's not surprising."
"Wait, you're both superheroes?"
"Trust me, it's weird to me too. A cop in New York decides to cut through the red tape by putting on a dumb outfit, just six months after his brother's kid starts slinging around arrows. Just a reminder of what a weird and crazy world we live in." Jim explained.
"Right…"
"Well, let's not just stand around and gawk at each other. Come on, let me give you a tour of the place."
Justice League Watchtower
"Blue Devil? Seriously?" Green Arrow commented.
"What's wrong with Blue Devil?"
"You mean besides the fact that he's been around for a grand total of five minutes?"
"I have to agree with Green Arrow, Shazam. While Blue Devil has shown versatility and tenacity, I fear that his lack of experience could overwhelm him when faced with the threats we face on a daily basis." Black Panther commented.
"If we're looking for people with more experience, I've got a few good picks." Spider-Man commented, summoning a representation of a red horned hero in front of him. "Daredevil's been around the block more than any of us, and he doesn't think twice when it comes to life or death situations."
"Daredevil is a vigilante who frequently pushes the boundary of what is acceptable, often sending his enemies to the hospitals with broken bones and wired jaws." Aquaman commented. "He's a man who constantly lives on the edge, and sooner or later, he'll have to fall on one side or the other. It is not the kind of attention that we need."
"Well, if you don't like Daredevil, why not another guy in red?"
"Ollie, I swear if you suggest Deadpool again, even as a joke…"
"Relax Dinah. I'm talking about Red Arrow." The Emerald Archer stated, as a projection of his former protege appeared before him. "Roy's done the work, and he's just as experienced as anyone else we've suggested so far, if not more so. Plus, he's not a kid anymore. He's 18, a legal adult."
"Not that you could tell that from how he acts…" Zatara muttered.
"Zatara raises a valid point. Red Arrow is talented and devoted, of that there is no question. However, he has been consistently rude, uncooperative, and disrespectful at every turn." Wonder Woman commented.
"I have to agree. If we reward that kind of behavior, I'm worried about the kind of message that would send to the rest of the Team." Captain America stated, as projections of Trickshot and Aqualad appeared in front of him. "If we want to consider any of the younger generation for advancement, I nominate Aqualad and Trickshot. Both of them have just as much experience, if not more, than Red Arrow, they've demonstrated they can be part of a team, and they'll both be 18 within the next six months. If there's anyone who's ready for the next stage, it's them."
"I appreciate you saying that, Steve, but if it's all the same to you, I'd like to wait until they're both 18 before we vote on them." Mockingbird stated, beginning to type on her keypad. "In the same vein, I'd like to nominate someone I know many of us have worked alongside in the past. He's shown consistent growth, maturity, and level headedness, and I think we're all proud to see the man he's grown into. My nominee for membership…" The scientist stated, as a projection of a certain man in a black suit with a blue bird logo appeared. "... is Nightwing." The table fell silent, many looking towards Batman for his reaction. It was well known that Nightwing's tenure as Robin had ended with the fracturing of the two's relationship, and although they had taken steps to repair it recently, many understood things to still be tense.
To his credit, the Dark Knight remained as stoic as ever, his body language remaining as tightly controlled as ever. However, those who knew him well could swear his lips twitched upward just the tiniest little bit…
"Nightwing has become an accomplished hero in his own right, and has defended Bludhaven well. I think he would be a great addition to the Justice League, should the vote go that way." At Batman's statement, many of the heroes let out a sigh, Spider-Man leaning back over to Flash.
"I think that's the proudest I've ever seen him."
"Right? I've known him for over a decade and that's the first time he's had an expression that isn't 'mild' annoyance." Flash whispered back, only for Batman to look over at the two. He narrowed his eyes, just slightly enough to send a shiver down their spines.
"Moving on…"
Project Cadmus
"Here's the 411." Guardian stated, the elevator door hissing open as he and Superboy stepped into the very lab the original wave of the Team had fought their way through not even six months ago. Genomorphs were busy at work, helping the human scientists conduct their experiments. "Welcome to the new and improved Cadmus. Doctor Spence and her team have been doing truly incredible work here, working on genetic research that could help identify and treat genetic diseases."
"With the help of some assistants…" Superboy muttered, watching the G-Basilisk slither about, carrying supplies to one scientist.
"The Genomorphs are becoming more independent, more educated. Some even have names." Guardian remarked, waving at one hard at work washing out beakers. "Hey, Benny!" He got a chirp in response. "The work we're doing here is going to save millions of lives, and change the world…"
"Superboy." Superboy narrowed his eyes at the voice in his head, looking at the silent Dubbilex out of the corner of his eye. "You may trust Guardian. He keeps no secrets."
"Unlike you. Still keeping your telepathy under wraps?"
"Some secrets… have their place. All of us in this place were used to being exploited and used. Even X-23, despite not being one of us, was made to be a weapon. You yourself-"
"Was created to replace or destroy Superman. Yeah, I remember the mission statement they burned into my head. What's your point?"
"That you should understand our plight. Look around you." Superboy did so, taking note of what he saw. Genomorphs, cleaning up behind the humans. Bringing them tools, taking note of their results, doing all the busy work they couldn't be bothered to do themselves… "The League freed us from the tyrants who would use us as weapons. However, we are not free to walk on the surface as you do. To enjoy the warm glow of the sun. Have we been freed from being weapons, only to become menial laborers?"
"Look, it… it's complicated. I promise, I'll do what I can."
"I know, Brother."
"But first…" Superboy's thought trailed off, as he turned back to his tour guide. "Guardian, is there any chance that another Superclone could exist without you knowing about it?"
"Well, I want to say that it's highly unlikely. But, this is a big place, and the previous owners weren't the most open sort. There's no telling what projects they had in the works."
"Tell me, brother, what will you do if you find this clone?"
"If it exists, I'm freeing it. Just like the others freed me." The Kryptonian clone answered, both aloud and in his mind.
"Then I shall question our brothers, find out more. Not a single thing happens in Cadmus without a Genomorph knowing about it." Superboy gave a silent thanks, as Guardian continued to speak.
"Look, I'm not entirely sure that your Superclone exists, but I've got my own missing Genomorphs to look for. You have the run of the place, but I don't think you'll find anything…"
Sublevel 52
Superboy stared at the green symbol of Project Kr, the door shut. He took a deep breath, the door opening as he stepped forward, back into the first home he'd ever known. For the first four months of his life, this room, the Pod, was all he knew. This was his world; his entire existence that stopped and started as far as his eye could see…
The thought of another Superclone living like this, being tormented and poked and prodded, tied his stomach into knots. If his 'brother' was here, he'd find him. Even if he had to tear this whole place apart again…
His eyes snapped open as his super hearing picked something up. He hadn't noticed it before, when it was all he'd known, but after months away living in a normal living space, there was no denying the harsh buzz he could hear from the west wall. Walking over, Superboy began pulling at the red biotech that lined the walls, tearing away chunk after chunk, until he was face to face with a sealed steel door, from behind which he could hear that buzz; could feel air coming through the cracks.
Superboy dug his hands into the door, finding leverage as his fingers entered the crevice. The steel door creaked and hydraulics squealed as the Teen of Steel shoved it open, being hit with a blast of cold air.
"Holy…"
Laid out before him was a room filled with cryogenic storage tubes, dozens stacked on top of one another. Judging from the thin layer of ice that covered all of them, they'd been here a while. From what he could make out, what was inside was… Genomorph parts. Arms, legs, wings, claws… what were these? Spare parts? Failed experiments? Superboy didn't have time to focus on this, his eyes instead being drawn to the large pod in the center of the room, the one eerily similar to the same one in the room behind him.
Superboy cautiously approached it, his heart hammering in his ears as he saw the 'Kr' logo emblazoned on the pod, the condensation on the glass obscuring what was inside. Superboy swallowed the lump in his throat, wiping away the condensation…
And being met with his own face, sleeping inside the Pod. Another super clone, just as Luthor had said. He wiped away more fog, revealing the white bodysuit with the 'S' logo, identical to the one Superboy had worn not half a year ago.
"I knew it…" He muttered, stepping back towards the control panel. It didn't take him long to figure out how to work it, air hissing and the condensation vanishing as the pod was opened. And as the pod opened, the ice cracking away, Superboy could read the words on the pod, hidden by ice.
'Project Match.'
"Match…" As far as names went, it was fairly simple, but Connor figured it would have to do until he and the others could come up with a proper name. "Match, I'm here to get you out of here!"
Match's hand twitched, eyes moving behind its eyelids as his brain functions picked up. The twitching continued, and Match's eyes fluttered open… revealing blue eyes with black sclera.
This was Superboy's first clue that something was off, that maybe this wasn't the best idea. A notion that was only confirmed when those eyes, eyes that seemed to hold some sort of… hollow emptiness, fixated on his shirt, and they were suddenly filled with emotion. But not confusion, joy, or even sadness.
No. The only thing in those eyes… was pure rage.
"Raghhhhhhhhhh!" Match yelled, leaping forward and tackling Superboy to the ground. Once he was on top, Match reared his hand back, and Superboy managed to jerk his head to the side just in time to avoid a punch that cracked the concrete floor. Match reared his hand back again, but this time Superboy was able to catch it, using a trick Black Canary had taught him to flip Match away and send him crashing through several of the cryotubes. However, his fellow Superclone quickly recovered, launching himself back at Superboy and knocking him through several canisters, before spinning Superboy around and tossing him back into the Kr Pod Chamber, knocking him against the wall. Superboy shook his daze off, getting to his feet as Match flew through the door…
Wait…
Flew?
Superboy's eyes widened as he realized that Match wasn't just jumping around like he did. No, the Superclone was actually, without a doubt, flying, the laws of gravity no longer applying to his twin floating above him.
"You… you can fly?! Why can you fly?!" Superboy's question went unanswered as Match let out a roar and charged at him once more, this time delivering a right hook to Superboy's jaw that knocked him back. He recovered as Match charged once again, this time blocking another punch. Match yelled as he unleashed a flurry of blows, ones that Superboy tried to block as best he could. However, it didn't take long for the Teen of Steel to realize that Match's flight wasn't the only difference.
He was faster. Not just that, he was stronger too. Each punch felt like there was a semi-truck behind it, each one pushing Superboy back further. Eventually his counters fell short, as Match's punch found its mark, a left hook that discombobulated Superboy enough for Match to grab him by the throat, lifting him up.
"Trying… to help… you!" But Superboy's plea fell on deaf ears as Match delivered another punch that knocked Superboy back into the Kr door, leaving a Superboy-shaped dent in the bulkhead, knocking him out.
As he was punched away, Superboy grabbed at Match's chest, ripping off his 'S' shield. Match looked down at this bare chest, before looking at the logo on Superboy's own chest.
He didn't understand what any of it was. Why the other him had that on his chest, the same symbol he had. But the fact that Match didn't have that symbol, it made him feel… empty.
Match looked in the stainless steel doors, recognizing his own reflection and the empty hole. His pupils glowed red, as a burst of heat visions reflected off the door and back onto his chest. If Match was bothered by the pain, he didn't flinch, the red beams etching into his flesh a crude upside down pentagon, followed by a crudely drawn, backwards 'S', the symbol burning red from the heat.
On the other side of the city, Lex watched the exchange. Watched Match let out a roar of victory as he claimed his new symbol. He watched Match stand over his 'brother', apparently preparing to claim a final victory… before the feed cut out completely, replaced with static. Lex narrowed his eyes, folding his fingers together in front of him. Very interesting indeed…
Justice League Watchtower
"Absolutely not." Superman cut off. "Red Arrow may be 18, and Aqualad and Trickshot will be of age soon enough, but the rest of the Team is still too young. We are not inducting children into the League." The Man of Steel stated, Shazam noticeably tugging at his collar.
"Children by what metric? Legally? Biologically?" Black Panther countered. "Each one of them is wise beyond their years, and have been through more trials and tribulations than those twice their ages."
"The Panther King is correct. To hold them back on the basis of age is a myopic point of view." The echoing voice of Fate declared, as a representation of Kid Flash appeared next to Aqualad's. "I have been one with both Aqualad and Kid Flash. Both are ready." As the voice echoed throughout the meeting room, many members shifted in their seats, glances being exchanged, something that did not go unnoticed. "Speak your minds." The room was silent, until Shazam let out a sigh.
"Alright, fine. No one else wants to say it, so I will: what the hell is Doctor Fate doing here?"
"Stephen Strange took great pride in being a member of the Justice League. It is at his urging that I continue to maintain this alliance."
"Doctor Strange was a member, not the guy who took over his body after holding a teenager hostage."
"Shazam raises a valid point." Red Tornado spoke up. "Strange may have volunteered to don the Helmet of Fate, but he only did so to satisfy the terms stated by Fate. Should such behavior be condoned and accepted by us?"
"Should this be a reassurance, Stephen Strange's trust in me is not absolute. He desires us to remain with the Justice League, so that his allies may best monitor us."
"For what it is worth, I also believe that the best place for Fate is here, with the League." Zatara spoke up. "Trust me, I am displeased by this arrangement just as much as anyone else here. But the mystic might of Nabu, combined with Stephen's own mystical talents, is a tool we simply cannot afford to pass up."
"... We'll take it into consideration." Black Panther commented.
"With that said, I do not think that myself and… 'Strangefate' should be our only source of mystical might." Zatara stated, as a projection of Constantine appeared before him. "I recommend John Constantine for membership."
"Constantine's skills are vast, but his methods are just as unorthodox." Wonder Woman commented. "On more than one occasion while lending his aid, he has taken actions and made decisions that always serve to benefit him in the long run."
"He has changed a great deal in the past few years."
"One does not change their nature so easily."
"Weren't we just talking about second chances twenty minutes ago? If Constantine's put in the work…"
"A valid point, Spider-Man. One we will take into consideration." Black Panther agreed. "Now, I believe we should be looking to expand our scope of membership beyond North America. I've been keeping an eye on a few promising candidates. Captain Britain, for one…"
Project Cadmus, Sublevel 52
The first thing Superboy noticed when he woke up was the pounding headache, feeling like he got hit by a freight train, followed by a convoy of trucks carrying concrete, and all sorts of other colorful metaphors for 'ow.' Superboy hadn't felt like this since he'd gone up against Amazo, and even the warm light of the Pod…
Wait. The Pod…
His eyes snapped open, being greeted with the warm, artificial yellow sunlight of the Pod, going nicely with the white solar suit he wore. The same he wore for Cadmus, for Desmond.
"No… NO!"
Alarms blared as he tore his way out of the pod, the Teen of Steel collapsing onto the ground, surrounded by glass and debris, not even caring as he heard the door open, Guardian and Spence running in, followed by Dubbilex.
"Superboy, calm down!" Guardian beckoned, as the irate Kryptonian turned to him, face twisted into a sneer.
"You put me in a pod!" He snarled out, looking directly at Guardian. "Never put me in a pod!"
"It wasn't his idea, it was mine!" Spence spoke up, almost hiding behind Guardian as Superboy focused on her. "With your injuries, the Pod and the Solar Suit were the quickest way to supercharge your cells!"
"Yeah, you'd know all about my cells, wouldn't you?!"
"What's that supposed to mean?!"
"You know exactly what it means! Project Match ring any bells?!"
baBum
"Project Match…?" Spence muttered. "I've never been involved in anything like that!"
"Bull! You were Desmond's top stooge before he went and got himself Hulked out. Couldn't let it go, could you? Just had to pick up where he left off?!" Superboy accused, and Spence scowled.
"Believe what you want, but I won't stand here and be accused!" Spence retorted, looking to the Head of Security. "Say something, Jim!"
"I know you're not inclined to give anyone here the benefit of the doubt, Superboy, but Spence is telling the truth. Like I said, all cloning projects, old and new, were discontinued after Desmond went away. And besides, she was as shocked as I was to see the footage of you and your twin." Guardian explained, and Superboy took a deep breath, getting his anger under control.
"Where's Match?"
"We… don't know. The security feed cut out right after he left that hole in the wall."
"What?!"
"Guardian speaks the truth. All security feeds cut out, and by the time we arrived, there was no trace of him."
BABUMBABUMBABUMBABUM
"And he isn't the only one." Guardian spoke up. "I mentioned it earlier, but over the last month or so, Genomorphs have been vanishing left and right. Just like with Match, no security feed, no trace they were ever there. We need to get to the bottom of this, and fast. Will you help us?" Superboy pondered his question for a second, before he sighed.
"... Yeah, I will. Just… give me a second to get changed." Guardian gave a nod, as he and Dubbilex exited the Kr chamber. As soon as it shut, a chime filled the room, drawing Superboy's attention to the console where his clothes were folded and… ironed?
Before he could question that, he looked at the chiming console, which just flashed the word "ANSWER." Narrowing his eyes, Connor pressed a glowing green button, and no sooner than he did did the visage of Lex Luthor appear on screen.
"Have a nice nap?" The billionaire asked, earning a scowl from the clone.
"Save it. You knew exactly what I was going to find, didn't you? Tell me what you know about Project Match."
"Hm, straight and to the point. I can respect that. I'm afraid I'm just as much in the dark about Project Match as you are. I can tell you more about you." Lex stated. "As I'm sure your dear friend Tony Stark mentioned, the DNA of non-humans is difficult to sequence. And the most notorious of all of them is Kryptonian DNA, which is hardly surprising considering there's only one living specimen. When you were created, the missing gaps in your DNA were bridged with human DNA." At this, Superboy's eyes widened, jaw dropping in shock.
"I'm… half human? What…? Why didn't Stark or any of them notice?"
"As brilliant as he purports to be, Anthony is hardly a geneticist. And Kryptonian and human DNA are remarkably similar, hence why bridging the gaps in the former with the latter was feasible. If one didn't know to look for it, they wouldn't notice." Luthor explained, to the still shellshocked Superboy. "You're only half-Kryptonian, which explains why you only have half of Superman's abilities. No flight, no heat vision, and the abilities you do have present to a lesser degree."
"But… but Match…"
"I'm still investigating, but I have a few theories. Chief among them being that Match was created with pure Kryptonian DNA, hence the full Kryptonian package."
"But… why's he like that? He didn't talk, he barely even acted like a real person."
"Which leads me to another theory. Cloning is a notoriously fickle process, you see. Much of the current science is based on a man who went by the name of Miles Warren. Five years ago, he attempted cloning experiments revolving around Spider-Man. One of the yields of these experiments was a man named Kaine, an imperfect result from a flawed sample who, while he possessed all the abilities of your wall-crawling compatriots and then some, suffered psychosis and cellular degeneration that impaired many of his rational thinking and cognitive functions. An imperfection caused by the missing sequences. I believe a similar imperfection occurred with Match, a trade off for his full Kryptonian powers."
"So when did they make him? Why did they make him?"
"I'm still working on that. Many of Desmond's files were biometrically encrypted, and the Blockbuster formula sufficiently altered him enough to make him unrecognizable to them." Luthor explained. "Regardless of the how or why, what we do know is that you need to get Match back on ice, as soon as possible." He 'suggested', prompting Superboy to cross his arms.
"I'm not your errand boy, Luthor. I'm not gonna put anyone else in a pod."
"Well, if you have any ideas on how to contain a mindless rage machine with the full powers of Superman, then by all means. What happens to Match can be determined after he's contained. Either way, you'll need help." A compartment on the console opened up, revealing a small container, only a little bigger than a smartphone, with the trademark 'S' emblem on it. Superboy opened it, revealing several small, red patches in the shape of the pentagon he wore.
"They're called Shields. Stick one on your arm, and the enzymes inside will suppress the human side of your DNA for about an hour, reinforcing the other half of Kryptonian DNA and giving you access to your full Kryptonian powers. You'll be as powerful as Match; as powerful as Superman." At the last name, Superboy's eyes widened, before his face twisted into a scowl.
"I don't need anything from you."
"Take them or don't, the decision is yours. I just thought having an edge up your sleeve couldn't hurt. I wish you the best of luck, Superboy." With that, the screen blinked off, leaving Superboy to stew. He looked at Luthor's 'gift', thinking about it.
Luthor's reputation spoke for itself, and Connor didn't need anything from him. There was no telling what kind of strings these came with, and using even one of them could invite any kind of disaster.
But… Match was full blooded Kryptonian, twice as strong as he was. And unlike with Amazo, there would be no Team coming to back him up this time. Maybe… maybe holding on to the Shields wasn't such a bad idea after all…
Justice League Watchtower
"I nominate… Plastic Man." Captain America stated, a projection of the stretchy hero appearing before him.
"Snrk…"
"Come on Cap, Plastic Man? Even ignoring the guy's criminal record, I dunno if he's really the kind of guy we want up here." Wasp replied.
"Snrk… pfft…"
"I vouch for him personally. He's put his past behind him, and he has a versatile power set that can adapt to any situation as needed."
"We're not saying that he's not dependable, or that he wouldn't be useful. It's just that… well…" Black Canary trailed off, causing Wolverine to sigh.
"The guy's annoying as hell." The stout brawler flatly stated. "Just five minutes around the guy makes me feel like I'm sittin' through bad standup, and even I can't be drunk enough to put up with that all the time. Hell, it takes all I got to put up with those two over there." Wolverine stated, jerking a thumb in the direction of Flash and Spider-Man.
"Wha…? What did we do?"
"You mean besides whisperin' to each other like a buncha school kids the entire time we've been here? I put up with enough wisecrackin' guys in red in my life, I don't need another."
"Pfffthaahahaha!" Shazam burst out laughing, getting looks from everyone. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry! It's just…Plastic Man cracks me up! How do you not like the guy? He's hilarious! Have you heard the one about the cat in the… mail… box…" The Big Red Cheese trailed off, noticing the stares of disapproval he was getting from just about the entire room. "Uh… was it something I said?"
"Maybe this is as good as any to talk about the big red elephant in the room." Captain Marvel stated. "I think we've all suspected it since he joined two years ago, and after that whole mess with Sivana back in May, I don't think we can deny it anymore. Which leads to the question… should Shazam be allowed to remain a member of the League, now that we know he's really a child?"
"Hey, I'm 13! … Almost… In two months…"
"Not really helping your point, Billy…" Wasp commented.
"Shazam does possess the Wisdom of Solomon, as well as an adult body impervious to most forms of physical harm." Red Tornado analyzed, but Aquaman shook his head.
"Wisdom does not equal maturity."
"The boy's track record speaks for itself. Has he not proven himself time and again? I personally witnessed him taking down three Hydra Sleeper mechs singlehandedly during the Red Skull's assault last year." Hawkwoman stated.
"And he's made boneheaded move after boneheaded move trying to show off. Something that makes a lot more sense now that we know he's a kid." John Stewart pointed out, only for Shazam to look indignant.
"Hey, I'm sitting right here!" He protested, and Black Canary offered up a comforting smile.
"Then Billy, why don't you go wait outside until we're done?"
"No." Batman sharply cut off, a tone that left no room for argument. "Shazam is a full member of the Justice League. Until such a time that he leaves or is voted out, he has just as much a right to be here than anyone else. He's entitled to maintain a secret identity, just as much as anyone else here."
"Look, Bats, the issue isn't that he kept who he really was a secret, hell it's not even completely about his age. It's that he lied to us about it." Iron Man spoke up.
"I didn't lie! I mean… not exactly." Shazam defended. "I just… didn't mention the part about being a kid."
"A lie of omission is still a lie." Wonder Woman countered. "You kept a great secret from us, one that could have been turned against us. No one in the League knew the truth."
"I knew."
"As did I." As the statements from Batman and Captain America were spoken, they earned a narrowed set of eyes from Wonder Woman. However, while most would have felt a cold grip of nervousness, both of the League's chairmen remained steadfast.
"I expected this from Batman, but you, Steve?"
"Trust me, Diana, I had the same apprehension that you did when Batman suggested Shazam for League membership. However, in time I came to see a young man who was willing to do what was right, no matter what, even if that meant risking his health and well-being. I guess you could say it struck a chord with me." The Sentinel of Liberty explained.
"I… am forced to agree. Even if he can be reckless at times, Shazam has proven his courage and strength of character a dozen times over." The King of Wakanda echoed.
"But he's just a kid, not even in high school yet." Spider-Man spoke up. "Call me the amazing hypocrite, but I don't think we should be toting a middle schooler with us to life and death situations."
"A noble sentiment, but Billy Batson is no mere child." Doctor Strangefate spoke up. "For his strength of character, the Wizard Shazam bestowed upon him the powers of the Old Gods, so that he may be their Champion. A role he will continue to fill with or without us."
"Uh, thanks." Shazam was unsure of what to make of the Lord of Order's support, given that he had just slammed him only a few minutes ago. This confusion was answered when Strangefate looked at him, familiar eyes peering from behind the Helmet.
"Stephen Strange thinks very highly of you. Ensure that his faith was not misplaced."
Project Cadmus, Sublevel 52
Changed out of his solar suit, back in the t-shirt and jeans that made him feel more comfortable, Superboy was examining the room he had found Match in. Sure enough, it looked like a tornado had blown through, an indiscernible trail of carnage in its wake. Superboy was far from a detective, but he did have at least one lead he could follow.
"Dubbilex, can you hear me?"
"Of course, Brother."
"Good, then it's time for you to start telling the truth." Superboy thought over the mental link the Genomorph scientist had established. "I could hear your heart racing when you told Guardian about the security feed. What are you hiding?"
"I never sought to deceive you, Brother. Only Guardian and Spence." Dubbilex answered, from his position further in Cadmus. "I have questioned the oldest of our Genomorphs. They tell me that Match is not your younger brother, as you assumed. He was Cadmus's first attempt at cloning Superman."
A cold knot formed in Superboy's stomach, as Dubbilex continued.
"His Kryptonian DNA was corrupted, caused by damage to the sample. The resulting cellular degeneration rendered him unstable, out of control. And so, they froze him, and tried again. Their second attempt was more successful, resulting in you."
So Superboy wasn't their first success, he was a fluke. An overcorrection, after they had overshot their goal. But for now, Superboy had to swallow that down, so that he could ask the burning question at the forefront of his mind.
"Who is 'they?' Desmond? Rice?"
"Desmond, yes. Acting on direct orders from his superior, Cadmus founder Lex Luthor."
So Luthor was playing him. Connor had figured he was lying about something, his heart rate was too… normal. Too controlled. And Superboy just played along, dancing like a puppet on a string…
After he had put his fist through a stray pod, Superboy took a deep breath, focusing on the topic at hand.
"So Luthor took Match?"
"No, Brother. I did."
Now that was something Superboy hadn't expected.
"I can feel the questions on the edge of your mind, Brother. It will be far easier to show you instead." The door to Project Kr opened, and Superboy was reminded of a passage he'd had to read for school, echoing in his head as he proceeded further downwards.
And in another moment, down went Connor after it, never once considering how in the world he was to get out again.
On the other side of town, Lex Luthor watched the video feed of Superboy descending down the rabbit hole, unable to hide the grin creeping onto his face…
Justice League Watchtower
"We seem to have come to a consensus that 18 years is a suitable age for which to join the League. Yet, what of Miss Martian?" The Manhunter from Mars spoke up, a projection of his niece appearing before the gathered heroes. "By Martian standards, she is still a biological adolescent. Yet in Earth years, she was born 48 years ago."
"She's what?!" Mockingbird couldn't help but blurt out.
"Easy, Bobbi. Different planets measure time differently. A year here could only be a few months on Mars." Hal Jordan spoke up. "Besides, different species mature at different rates. A child on one planet could be considered an adult on another."
"… That's a weird thing to know, Hal."
"Getting back on topic, I think J'onn does raise a valid point." Black Canary seconded, Superman's eyes shifting as a projection of Superboy appeared. "If we were to measure chronological age, where does that leave Superboy? He's not even a year old yet. Should he wait seventeen more before we decide he can stand alongside us?"
"And what of Vision?" Red Tornado proposed, a projection of the Team's synthezoid appearing. "My brother is only a month old, yet his mind is based on a complex overlay of my own memories and those of our creator."
"Not to mention the alien rock in his head…" Iron Man muttered.
"Look, I get wanting to keep the kids safe, but they've already gone through more than most adults go through as is, while staying sane." Wolverine piped up, projections of X-23 and Batgirl appearing before him. "Hell, both X-23 and Batgirl were raised in hell, and that doesn't stop them from doing their damndest every day."
"Which begs the question… what do we consider as the proper guideline for advancement? Chronology? Biology? Experience? Maturity?" Wonder Woman stated, as Hawkman spoke up.
"There's also the matter of trust." He stated, projections of Iron Knight and Scarlet Spider appearing before the gathered heroes. "Iron Knight stole and injected himself with dangerous, unstable technology. And Scarlet Spider was recently manipulated by one of our enemies, for reasons we have yet to fully understand. Can we really trust wildcards such as them?"
"Oh you feathered fu-"
"That's enough, Oliver." Captain America shut down, before turning to Hawkman. "And that's out of line, Katar. Both these young men were doing the best they could in the situations at hand."
"And so their solutions were to lie to us? To sneak behind our backs?"
"Nolan was doing what he thought he had to to deal with his own issues. Am I sad he thought he couldn't come to me? Yes. But I know for a fact he wouldn't have done anything with the Extremis unless he thought it was the best way to make himself the best he could be." Iron Man countered.
"And Scarlet Spider had a gun to his brother's head. Literally. He had no choice but to do what Doc Ock said."
"Hmph. I still do not believe they are to be trusted." The Thanagarian stated, Green Arrow opening his mouth, only for Black Canary to stomp on his foot, shooting him a glare as he summoned a projection of Wonder Girl.
"And what of Wonder Girl? We do not yet fathom why Loki, our oldest enemy, sought to put her in our path."
"Loki holds no bearing on Wonder Girl's character. Loki's schemes can be vast in their scope, with many pieces yet hidden. Yet I firmly believe that Wonder Girl is destined for far more than one of the God of Mischief's pawns. A notion Thor himself seconded, before he departed to Asgard." Wonder Woman stated, looking at the empty seat their absent Asgardian normally occupied.
"Hmph." Hawkman's feathers were rumpled, but he held his tongue for now, as the Black Panther spoke, projections of White Wolf, Robin, and Artemis appearing around them.
"Any one of the Team has proven themselves, time and again. I suppose the only thing we can do now is look at them, their experience, their characters, their abilities, and ask… are they ready?"
Project Cadmus
Superboy had followed Dubbilex's instructions, navigating the confusing twists and turns of Cadmus until he came to the fork in the road that Kid Flash, Aqualad, and Iron Knight had arrived at, heading in the direction Dubbilex had come from. He traveled down the hall until he came to a dead end, a large, fleshy red wall.
"Alright, Dubbilex, I'm here. Now-" Superboy barely had time to think before the wall began to part, opening up into a stone staircase that looked like it had been carved into bedrock. The hairs on the back of his neck stood up as he descended the staircase, feeling reminded of all the horror movies Wally and Carter liked to show him.
Eventually, he reached the end of the stairwell, emerging into a large cavern, even bigger than the Cave at Mount Justice. Dozens of crudely constructed stone shelters littered the cavern, G-trolls and G-Elves working on building more.
"What the fu-"
"Welcome, Brother."
A voice echoed, Superboy turning to see a familiar Genomorph walking towards him.
"Dubbilex, what is all this?"
"This is our dream. The future we have been building together. Welcome… to Genomorph City!"
This was unlike anything Connor had expected. Dozens of Genomorphs, of all kinds, building houses and shelters.
"The missing Genomorphs Guardian mentioned… you're behind them?"
"Indeed I am. Desmond had planned this place as an extension of Cadmus, for further Genomorph research. However, following his transformation and arrest following your liberation, all such plans were abandoned, the details of this location lost in the transition to Guardian."
"I'm sure telepathy didn't hurt, either." Superboy remarked, walking through the 'City' with Dubbilex. "So why the secrecy? Why make it look like the Genomorphs have just been vanishing?"
"Liberation does not occur overnight, Superboy. After your departure, I sensed that the Genomorphs had yet to achieve the freedom I sought. And while Guardian is more compassionate than his predecessors, he does not see the big picture. He sought to prove the Genomorphs' use, turning us into menial laborers. I envisioned a future greater than cleaning floors and washing dishes, and so I began moving our brothers here, one by one."
"So you decided to just hide out here in the dark?"
"It is only a temporary measure. I seek a future where all Genomorphs can walk the surface, basking in the sun's glow as you do."
"I can help. I can talk to the League, or Stark, or… I don't know, something. But you guys deserve better than to be hiding out here in the dark.
"I know you will do what you can, Brother. But until then, it is imperative that Genomorph city remain undiscovered." Dubbilex explained, as Connor was brought to one of the small houses. "That is why I brought… him here." The hairs on the back of Connor's neck stood up, feeling a lump forming in his throat.
"You mean…?"
"Yes. He is in there." Connor swallowed the lump in his throat, heading inside. Three G-Gnomes were seated above the centerpiece, red horns glowing as their telepathy was in overdrive. And below them… was Match, bound in chains and tied to a pillar. His eyes were open, but they were blank and glassy, devoid of even less thought than there was beforehand.
"What have you done to him?!" Superboy yelled, turning around to glare at Dubbilex.
"He is safe. The G-Gnomes keep him docile with their telepathic identities."
"And the chains?!" At this, Dubbilex looked more uncertain, Connor immediately realizing that the Genomorph scientist liked the arrangement just as much as he did.
"An… unfortunate countermeasure. Superboy, you must understand, Match is not like us. Not like you. He is little more than pure rage, and combined with his unmatched powers, he poses the greatest threat to the Genomorph cause."
"And your solution is to chain him up, hold him prisoner and zoned out of his mind like Desmond held me?"
"It is only a temporary countermeasure. In time, we will attempt to educate him, just as you were. We will attempt to train him to master his abilities, so that he may join you."
"I don't think Superman's gonna be a big fan of this…"
As the two debated Match's future, the clone in question sat there, eyes vacant, head empty. However, at the mention of Superman's name, something stirred within him. His eye twitched, black sclera'd eyes looking up at the two.
He knew the one with the horns. He hadn't been there when Match was born, but he had been following his awakening. That had been the last thing Match had seen before he blacked out, and before that…
Was him. The one with his face. The one who walked around, making strange noises and expressions. And that symbol on his chest…
Rage filled him, fists clenching as he leapt at the two, only for the chains to catch him, straining him and startling the two.
"I thought you said he was restrained!"
"He is! The G-Gnomes should-!"
"GRAHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Match's scream precipitated the chains shattering, as Match grabbed his twin and smashed through the crude building, flying up and slamming Superboy into a wall, hand around his throat. Match released a yell as his fist collided with Superboy's face, doing so two more times before Superboy brought up his forearm and redirected it, fist smashing into the rock as a booted foot collided with Match's solar plexus, knocking him back.
Match skidded to a halt, fingers digging into the ground as he slowed himself down. "GRAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
Genomorphs scattered as Dubbilex stepped forward. He raised his hand, horns glowing as his telepathy activated. "Be calm!" Match groaned as the telepathy invaded whatever semblance of a mind he had, yelling in pain. He began pounding at the ground like a toddler throwing a tantrum, sending debris everywhere. Dubbilex maintained the assault as best he could, but he could not control both his telepathy and his telekinesis at the same time, as a small rock hit the side of his head, knocking him out.
With the telepathic assault taken care of, Match turned his focus to Superboy, the former's eyes glowing red as the latter shook himself free of the hole in the wall, taking note of the glowing red eyes.
"Oh crap…" Superboy grit his teeth as the blast of heat vision was unleashed, taking it directly to his chest. His shirt was burned away, his skin beginning to turn red from the heat. Fortunately for him, Superboy wouldn't have to wonder how much longer his skin could endure it, as the heat vision soon shut off.
Unfortunately, that was because Match had decided to rush him, catching him in a flying tackle that lifted him off the ground, knocking him into the cave's ceiling, before slamming him back down into the ground, slamming through multiple houses before he stopped. Superboy barely had time to catch his breath before two feet slammed into his chest, courtesy of Match kicking him away, slamming him into a pillar.
Two things were racing through Superboy's mind as he tried to stand up, spitting the blood from his mouth (an unusual experience for him in and of itself): the first one was 'ouch'; the second was that he was outmatched, no two ways about it. Superboy had figured that his skill, honed through training sessions with Black Canary, Hawkeye, and all his friends, would be enough to bridge the gap in strength. But Match was simply too strong, too much pure power to overcome. And the only way…
"I just thought having a trick up your sleeve couldn't hurt…"
Those words echoed in Superboy's ears, as he reached into his back pocket, pulling out the Shield container that Luthor had given him. He didn't know how much he trusted Luthor, didn't know if he was telling the truth about what the Shields could do. And if he used them… would they do what he said? Give him all the powers of Superman, but without the instability in Match? What would Luthor have to gain from that?
"GRAHHHHHHHHHHH!"
Match's screams echoed out, Superboy looking up to see his twin looking for a fight, heat vision blaring, Genomorph City in flames as he rampaged. And just like that, all the doubt in Connor's mind faded away. Dubbilex's dream was in trouble; that bright future for all Genomorphs about to crumble around him. And there was no one around who could do anything to stop him.
This looked like a job for Superboy.
He opened the container, revealing the twelve Shields inside. They were stickers in the same design as the 'S' shield. Superboy took one, peeled the protective adhesive off, swallowed his apprehension, and slapped it on his arm.
The effect was immediate, like a jolt of electricity surging through his brain. His senses went into overdrive, the sounds of every heartbeat in the cavern filling his ears. The walls of the cavern faded away, he could see beyond them into the sewer system of Washington DC, as he could hear the hustle and bustle of the nation's capital. He could see it all, taste all the particulates in the air, feel the dust on his skin…
And most of all, Superboy felt strong. He felt powerful. And he felt like there wasn't anything or anyone who could stand in his way.
"Match!" His scream echoed through the cavern, drawing his twin's rage-filled attention. Superboy raised his hand, beckoning him over with a 'come on' gesture. "Round two!"
Match's face twisted into a sneer, locking back on to his target. Releasing a yell, he launched himself at Superboy, fist reared back and prepared to collide with Superboy's face…
Only for Superboy to catch it, dust scattering from the force of the impact. Superboy gripped Match's fist, pushing him back as his other hand balled into a fist.
"My turn."
The resulting right uppercut shook the cavern, sending Match flying into the ceiling. He was able to recover, and as he charged at Superboy, the Teen of Steel did the same, launching at his doppelganger. The two collided, both being knocked back. Superboy braced himself, preparing to collide with the ground…
Only for him not to. Opening his eyes, he looked behind to see the ground beneath him… was slightly further away than it should have been. It was at this point that he noticed the feeling of weightlessness over his body as the laws of physics seemed to alter around him.
"Holy… I'm flying!" He wasn't even making any conscious effort to do so, he was just… floating. Was this what Superman felt like…?
Superboy didn't have time to ponder that as Match launched back at him, having heat visioned off a stalactite to use as a weapon. Trying to rush him wasn't going to work, maybe if he could blast him-
And as soon as Superboy thought that, his eyes felt hot, as two crimson beams of heat vision blasted out of his pupils, hitting Match in the chest and knocking him off course, knocking the older clone to the ground. The beams continued to fire from Superboy's eyes, carving burning scars into the rock around him.
How could he shut it off? Close his eyes? Would that burn his eyelids? However, as soon as the Teen of Steel thought off, the heat vision shut off, blinking as the burning subsided.
He had no time to ponder this as Match had caught him in a tackle, lifting him into the air. Superboy brought his hands together and brought them down on his clone's back, forcing Match to release him. The two exchanged blows as they flew through the air, each impact shaking the foundation. They seemed evenly matched, until Superboy caught a right hook from Match.
Evidently, the first Super-Clone wasn't as mindless as he appeared, whether it was thought or basic instinct guiding him. He looked in Superboy's eyes, firing off a small blast of heat vision that seared his retinas.
"Grahh!" Superboy was seeing stars as his eyes were burning and pain flooded his mind.
Match was learning, getting stronger, getting more used to his powers, whereas Connor was flailing about like a toddler. Eventually, Luthor's Shield was gonna run out, and then Connor would be back at square one, tired and beaten, and Match was going to kill him. And after that, Cadmus was going to be leveled by his rampage, and then the League would come to face him. And even Earth's Mightiest Heroes wouldn't be able to beat a mindless copy of Superman.
And after they fell, next would be…
No.
Not them. Not her.
Match was going to be stopped, here and now.
Match tried to grab him, the contact being all that the blurry visioned Connor needed to grab hold of his clone's solar suit, spinning him around and slamming him into what Connor assumed was the ground. Following the thud, Superboy slammed into Match, driving him across the ground and slamming him into a wall.
With Match still stunned, Superboy began delivering a flurry of blows, each punch stronger and faster than the one before. He couldn't lose here. Couldn't let Match get out. Couldn't let him hurt anyone else. And so he punched again and again and again and again and-
"Superboy, enough!" The harsh yell rang out, as Superboy's vision returned to normal. He saw a bloodied, bruised Match, punched into a Match-shaped hole in a pillar. His own knuckles were bloody, the patch on his arm having turned black. Had he burned through it all already…?
Blinking twice, he turned to see none other than Guardian behind him, flanked by Spence, Cadmus's security team, Mercy Graves, and a crestfallen Dubbilex.
"He's down. You won." Guardian reassured, and Connor took a deep breath, the sound of his own pounding heart in his ears now subsiding.
"You… you're right. I… I won."
Later
The hydraulics of the pod whirred as it sealed shut, and once it was air tight, frost began to cloud the glass, as liquid nitrogen froze Match to almost absolute zero. Superboy, his tattered clothes replaced and his wounds bandaged, couldn't help but stare at Match with a deep frown on his face. Guardian noticed this, placing a hand on the half-Kryptonian's shoulder.
"I don't like it either, but it has to be this way. You were here to stop him this time, but if he got out of Cadmus…"
"I know. I know…" he sighed, looking away and heading out of the Project Kr chamber. He'd come to free Match, to show him life just like the Team had shown him, only to stick him right back in his pod. The whole thing made him feel sick to his stomach, and for more reasons than that…
Justice League Watchtower
"...and I think having Storm would be a valuable member, in addition to further endearing the public to mutant rights." Superman finished, a projection of the silver-haired weather witch before them. "Now, it's getting late. Does anyone have any other suggestions?" When silence filled the meeting room, Captain America cleared his throat.
"With that said, these are our candidates for new or continued membership in the Justice League." The Sentinel of Liberty stated, projections of every discussed hero filling the room.
"We've debated everything from origin, age, size, gender, temperament, background, personalities, powers, and national allegiance."
"But what are the fundamental criteria for membership? When all is said and done, the question is simple: who can we trust to stand beside us, to have our backs, and ultimately, to risk it all; to set everything on the line for the sake of what is right?" Wonder Woman took over from Batman, ballots appearing in front of each member of the Justice League.
"It's time to vote."
Potomac Park
Luthor was sitting on the hood of his limousine, lazily checking the time on his watch. As if on cue, the Supercycle flew overhead, landing in front of him and depositing an irate Superboy, glaring at the unfazed billionaire.
"There was a tracker in that box you gave me."
"Which ended up being awfully redundant, if you ask me. You and Match's little tussle almost ended up registering on the Richter scale." Luthor blithely remarked, noticing the blackened patch on Superboy's arm. "Did you see my tracker with your x-ray vision?" At this, Superboy looked away, pulling his sleeve down before his glare returned.
"You initiated the cloning projects in the first place!"
"I wanted Superman to meet his Match, should the need arise. And if it never did, I figured it wouldn't hurt to have a solar powered trump card tucked away."
"One that did whatever you wanted it to do."
"Call it a return on investment."
"Like how you used me to locate the missing Genomorphs?! You knew Dubbilex would take Match once he was freed!"
"Dubbilex is a good deal more clever than he let on, and was simply too good at covering his tracks. I have the best hunters, trackers, and killers on speed dial, but one can never underestimate the benefits of a softer touch." Luthor stated, sitting up off the hood and approaching Superboy, that smirk on his face. "But that's not what's really eating at you, is it? No, you're thinking about your human DNA, aren't you. Or more accurately, you're wondering where it came from."
The flinch on Superboy's face told Lex all he needed to know, that smirk seeming to deepen and grow in confidence.
"You're a smart boy, smarter than anyone gives you credit for. I'm sure you put it together the second I told you, even if it was just in the back of your mind."
"I… I don't-"
"You've always felt it, haven't you? How no one seems to value you for what you really are? How you prefer to steamroll to the greatest solutions, rather than simply take the long way? How you always think better when you have something to work on? Face it, son. You have more in common with me than you'll ever have in common with Superman."
At this, Connor's face twisted into a scowl.
"That's a lie!"
"Oh, let's skip the pointless denials. You might have his face and his appearance, but what's inside, the person you really are? That is all Luthor." Lex bluntly stated, and as Connor searched for a dozen disapprovals… he found nothing. Absolutely nothing. "What has the big blue Boy Scout ever given you? Affection? The time of day? More than the most scant of acknowledgements?" Connor almost responded with the message from the simulation, before he remembered that that message had been plucked from Martian Manhunter's own subconscious.
The look on Superboy's face told Lex all he needed to know, and with that, he went in for the kill.
"The world isn't as black and white as Superman and his costumed compatriots make it out to be. It's gray, as far as the eye can see. Take what happened with Match. You were prepared to level Cadmus to free him, but when it came down to it, you agreed to my suggestion to freeze him. Sure, you can tell yourself it's only temporary, but we both know it's not. And think what you will about me-" Lex reached over, ripping the Shield off Connor's arm. "-you still accepted my gift. We're more alike than you care to admit." Superboy scowled at this, brushing off his progenitor's hand.
"I'm nothing like you!" He spat, reaching into his back pocket and thrusting the Shield container towards Luthor. "Take 'em back!"
"Keep them. They're no good to anyone else. Think of them as an early Christmas gift. From a father… to his son." Superboy sneered at this, hand darting forward and grabbing Luthor's tie. However, despite the angry half Kryptonian in his face, Luthor was as unfazed as ever. In fact, he was almost… amused, before it turned into a sigh.
"Have it your way… Red Sun."
It wasn't even a blink of an eye, and Luthor was gone, leaving Superboy holding his ungodly expensive tie in his hands. At first, he assumed it was some sort of speedster or teleporter… before he noticed the car was gone too. And not just that. When Superboy had arrived, the sun had just started to set. But now… now, it was pitch black, the moon hanging high in the sky.
Luthor hadn't teleported or run away. He had just… left. He shut Superboy down with a simple phrase, and he drove off like nothing had happened. If two words could shut him down for hours, what else could Luthor make him do? Was there a Trigger Scent out there, just waiting for Luthor to press a button on?
Connor wouldn't give him a chance. He gripped the Shield container still in his hands, turning to the Potomac. He raised his hand back, preparing to throw it so hard it ended up somewhere in the Atlantic…
Only to remember how it had felt to use them. How strong, how powerful he'd felt. Like there wasn't anything or anyone who could stop him. He thought of the Amazo, about Nuke, the Masters of Evil, the simulation, Infinity Man, and all the other threats they had fought and would face. Wouldn't it be easier to have that power on their side? To be able to channel the power of Superman and to live up to his full potential?
So what if this was what Luthor happened to want? Screw Luthor. Even if he was the other half of Superboy's DNA, who cared what he wanted? Superboy wasn't tucking the Shields into his back pocket because that's what Luthor wanted. It's because it's what Superboy wanted. He'd live up to his promise to Rocket Raccoon, and do things on his terms, not his creators. It was his choice to keep the Shields.
… Wasn't it?
A/N: We hope you all enjoyed! Remember, we're hard at work on the end of our first 'season', so please, be patient and understanding. We will see you all next time!