X-Men: The Unnatural Omega's Volume 2, Omniverse Saga Chapter 8, a X-Men + X-overs Crossover fanfic

X-Men: The Unnatural Omega's Volume 2, Omniverse Saga

Chapter 8 The Big Three, Darksied and A Song Of Torment

…

The communication device strapped on Batman's wrist blinked, signaling an incoming transmission. A holographic projection sprang to life revealing Nick Fury, the Director of S.H.I.E.L.D.

"Bruce," he began, standing in a stark lit SHIELD command center, "We've got a situation. Another Conjunction has occurred, and this time two familiar faces from your universe have come through. They go by the names Superman and Wonder Woman. We believe it would be best if you handle this one."

In the grand hall of Kroako, Batman's stern face remained unchanged, only a slight nod acknowledging the news. "Understood, Nick. I'll take care of it," he said curtly before the projection disappeared.

He didn't hesitate. Swiftly, Batman gathered his team for this task - Ciri, Letho, Sonic, Kirby, and finally, Logan. Their combined abilities and strengths, he hoped, would be more than enough to address the situation and help his old friends navigate this new world.

…

Batman led his team to a briefing room and stood before them, his posture erect and authoritative. He cleared his throat before he began, "I'm sure some of you may already be aware of the two individuals we are about to meet. They're not just any superheroes. They're amongst the best of my world, Earth's champions."

His fingers moved over a panel, and holographic images of Superman and Wonder Woman flickered to life.

"The man in blue and red, with the S-shield, is Superman, also known as Kal-El or Clark Kent," Batman began, indicating the figure soaring in the virtual sky. "He's an alien from the planet Krypton, but Earth is his home. His abilities are powered by our sun, giving him superhuman strength, speed, invulnerability, flight, and other powers. Despite his overwhelming power, he's one of the most compassionate beings I know."

The image shifted to the figure of a woman clad in a star-spangled skirt and red bustier with a golden tiara adorning her head. "This is Wonder Woman, Princess Diana of Themyscira. She's an Amazonian warrior with divine heritage. Diana is strong, fast, and nearly invincible. She's an excellent combatant, and her Lasso of Truth compels anyone entangled in it to speak the truth."

Batman paused, allowing his words to sink in. "Both of them stand for justice and peace, and they have never faltered in their mission to protect the innocent. Our job is to make sure they adjust to this new world while continuing to do just that."

Upon their arrival at the scene, the sight of a glowing portal, surrounded by a barrier, was the first thing that greeted them. Behind it stood Superman and Wonder Woman, their faces marked with confusion and worry. SHIELD agents were swarming around them, attempting to explain the situation.

As Batman and his team approached, the two heroes straightened up, their faces lighting up with recognition upon seeing a familiar face.

"Batman," Superman greeted, his voice calm yet filled with concern. "We tried going back, but it's like something is pushing us away. It's like two super magnets repelling each other. And there's a barrier preventing us from even touching the portal."

Wonder Woman nodded in agreement, her eyes focused on the glowing rift, "We've made multiple attempts, but to no avail. It's a one-way trip."

The news wasn't exactly a surprise, given what they had experienced so far with these Conjunctions. Still, the confirmation set a somber mood. Now, it was Batman's job to break down the news, help them adapt and, hopefully, find a way for them to return home.

…

As Batman and his team approached, the two heroes straightened up, their faces lighting up with recognition upon seeing a familiar face.

Wonder Woman nodded in agreement, her eyes focused on the glowing rift, "We've made multiple attempts, but to no avail. It's a one-way trip."

A moment of silence passed between the group, disrupted by the sight of Kirby and Sonic standing beside Batman. Their iconic appearances were unmistakable, even for those from a different universe.

"Wait, are these... Kirby and Sonic?" Clark questioned, his voice laced with disbelief, and an underlying hint of amusement. His eyes darted between the plump, pink puffball and the cobalt-colored hedgehog, standing unassumingly among the team.

Batman, unfazed by Clark's surprise, confirmed, "Yes. They're part of our team."

"Wow," Diana chimed in, her gaze softening at the sight of the cartoonish characters. "I've seen many unusual things in my life, but this might top the list."

"Unusual, yes, but they're capable," Batman added, watching as Kirby and Sonic puffed up their chests, clearly proud of their roles in the team.

Seeing their surprise, Sonic smirked, spinning a quick loop around Superman before coming to a halt again. "Didn't expect to be rubbing elbows with the man of steel, did ya?"

Meanwhile, Kirby simply waved, giving them a cheerful, "Poyo!" The atmosphere lightened significantly, easing the tension that came with the unfamiliarity of the situation.

Batman then turned to the remaining members of his team. "This is Ciri, she's a witcher, and a very powerful one. She's been instrumental in dealing with these multiverse incidents."

Ciri gave a slight nod to the newcomers, her stern face revealing her professionalism.

"Next is Letho, another witcher. He's been in more fights than I can count and has an extensive knowledge of monsters."

Letho crossed his arms, acknowledging Superman and Wonder Woman with a curt nod.

Batman then gestured towards the last member. "And this is Logan, also known as Wolverine. He's been through hell and back, and he's still standing."

Logan, leaned against a nearby wall, grunted in response, acknowledging the introduction.

With introductions out of the way, Batman moved on to the more complicated explanation. "Now, as for why you're here... You're not in your own multiverse anymore. You're in another, completely different multiverse. This place," he gestured to the area around them, "has become something of an epicenter for a breach in the omniverse."

"Omniverse?" Diana asked, her eyebrows knitted together in confusion.

"Yes," Batman affirmed. "Think of it as a multiverse of multiverses. We've seen different versions of ourselves, versions from completely different realities, even characters from Looney Tunes."

Superman raised an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth quirking up in a bemused smile. "Looney Tunes, really?"

Batman merely nodded, "Really. It's been... interesting, to say the least. But we're managing, and now, it seems, you two are a part of this as well."

"We've encountered beings from an astonishing array of realities," Batman continued, his tone matter-of-fact despite the incredible nature of what he was sharing. "Bumblebee is here, but not the iteration you might be familiar with. This one hails from the first generation of Transformers."

He gestured towards a high-tech display on his gauntlet that had been prepared to assist in this briefing, each character appearing on the screen as he mentioned them.

"The Powerpuff Girls also found their way here from the City of Townsville. Different, yet resourceful. As for threats, we've dealt with the forces of Sauron from a universe known as Middle Earth. Thankfully, we're not alone on that front. We have assistance from Gimli, Legolas, and Aragorn."

Superman and Wonder Woman listened, their expressions reflecting the bewildering array of information they were absorbing.

"And it doesn't stop there," Batman continued. "There are a handful of Disney characters present, adding to the unusual diversity. And yes," he added, catching Diana's raised eyebrow, "we even have a sentient tree named Treebeard from the same universe as Legolas and the others."

"And believe it or not," he finished, a hint of dry humor entering his voice, "there's even a Lego version of me. I'm still getting used to that one myself."

"We have also come across a certain individual named Derreck," Batman began, focusing on the display as it shifted to show a picture of a man with teeth as sharp as a shark. "His origin is... complicated. He's the son of Mistress Death, the entity of death in this universe. His father is the god-creator of a Dark Multiverse, much like ours, but it does not contain any versions of us."

"Derreck has two children with a mutant named Laura. Their offspring, Orion and Aurora, were born with what can be described as monolith-like objects - a common trait within Derreck's lineage. A few days after their birth, Aurora waved hers around like a toy, and the shockwave from it had an unimaginable impact. It turned this universe into what you might call... ground zero."

Batman paused, surveying the expressions on the faces of Superman and Wonder Woman.

"Any questions?" he finally asked, his gaze steady despite the surreal information he had just unloaded on his friends.

Superman's face paled as he processed Batman's explanation, and he exchanged a bewildered look with Wonder Woman. "An infant?" he finally echoed, his voice strained as he tried to comprehend the gravity of the situation. "You're telling us an infant playing with her toy caused all this?"

Wonder Woman also wore an expression of disbelief, her eyebrows furrowing in a mixture of concern and confusion. "A child possessing such power..." She trailed off, her gaze distant as she tried to wrap her mind around the enormity of the situation.

Even among the numerous threats and crises they had faced in their own universe, the idea of an infant causing such a catastrophic event was something completely out of their realm of understanding. The revelation served to underline the staggering difference in the world they now found themselves in.

Amidst the heavy revelation and surprise, a new figure approached. The ethereal Luminous Frost, the grandson of Shrowd and whos' father tenebrous was the nephew of Derreck, emerged from the crowd. His gaze, framed by icy blue eye socket, surveyed the new arrivals. In his grip was a spear tipped with a white monolith, a symbol of power and authority.

Already accustomed to the diverse inhabitants of Krakoa, Batman was quick to recognize Luminous Frost. His gaze followed Frost's attention, which was centered on the dimensional portal that had just disgorged his fellow heroes.

Seeing his interest, Batman asked, "Do you think there's a way to seal it? Or at least prevent any more beings from passing through?"

Luminous Frost, looking thoughtful, extended his hand toward the shimmering portal. Energy surged and crackled around his fingertips as they neared the rift. "I may be able to prevent it from widening further," he considered aloud, "But to completely eradicate it... that's another challenge. The power that birthed this portal is slightly more potent than even Derreck's." He paused, still focusing on the portal, "It's going to take time, if it's even possible at all..."

As the conversation progressed, a noticeable shift in Luminous Frost's expression stopped Batman mid-sentence. His icy eyes darted upwards, seemingly looking through the sky itself.

"I sense someone... they're watching us," Luminous Frost announced, his voice barely a whisper.

Superman immediately sprung into action, his gaze shooting upwards to the vastness of the sky above, scanning for any threat. Yet, even his superhuman sight found nothing unusual.

Confused, Wonder Woman asked, "What do you mean?"

Luminous Frost's eyes remained affixed on the sky as he explained, "There was a connection... a distant gaze upon us. Whoever it was, they abruptly severed the link." He paused for a moment before adding, "Before the connection was lost, I caught a name from his subordinate... Lord Darkseid."

At the mention of the name, Batman's demeanor changed. As a descendant of the God-creator of the Dark Multiverse, he understood the significance of Luminous Frost's abilities and his warning. But for Superman and Wonder Woman, the news came as a shock, hinting at a potential new threat in an already chaotic situation.

"Wait a minute," Superman interjected, his brow furrowed in concern. "How do you just know something like that?"

The same question was mirrored in Wonder Woman's eyes as she turned to Batman, waiting for an explanation.

Understanding their confusion, Batman answered with a calmness that belied the unsettling revelation. "You have to understand something about Luminous Frost and his lineage," he began, his gaze steady. "His great-grandfather was the God-creator of the Dark Multiverse, who also happens to be the father of Derreck."

He paused, letting the gravity of his words sink in before he continued. "This ability to perceive darkness and evil... it's innate in their bloodline. Luminous Frost, like Derreck, inherited it. They can sense the presence of these dark forces, even when they're not immediately visible to others."

This explanation didn't entirely dissolve their confusion, but it seemed to give them some form of understanding. After all, they were in a completely different Multiverse, where the laws they understood and had come to accept could be turned on their heads.

Luminous-Frost? can you pinpoint where they were? batman asks him.

Luminous Frost fell silent, his frosted eyes shifting in thought as he stared into the vastness of the sky. He clasped the shaft of his spear tighter, the cold aura emanating from him seeming to intensify.

"It's difficult to pinpoint an exact location... the connection was severed too abruptly," he admitted, his icy gaze not leaving the distant horizon. "But from the brief interaction, it's clear that they were observing from a distance... quite possibly interstellar or even interdimensional."

The stoic figure turned back to the group, the chill from his eyes seeming to reach their core. "What I can say for certain is that this observer was in a state of... surprise, perhaps even nervousness, when they realized I could sense them. It's not often that beings of darkness come across those who can see through their shroud."

Batman's attention piqued at Luminous Frost's next statement. "Based on the resonance of the connection, I'd hazard a guess that they're located near a powerful cosmic civilization. Possibly the Kree Empire."

That caused a few eyebrows to rise. The Kree Empire was a well-known cosmic power within the Marvel universe. If Darkseid was spying on them from such a location, the implications could be significant.

As if sensing their rising apprehension, Luminous Frost added, "And there's more... I can sense Derreck. He's already on his way there. We might want to hurry."

The added sense of urgency brought an immediate response from Batman and the rest of the team. There wasn't any time to waste; they needed to move, and quickly.

…

Skipping ahead to after they caught up with derreck…

In the compact confines of the Quinjet, Derreck shared his own disturbing discovery, his eyes flickering with a dangerous fire as he spoke.

"Like Luminous Frost, I heard this 'Darkseid'," he began, his tone full of disdain for the unseen observer. "But I got a bit more than just a glimpse. I saw into his mind... and it's twisted. It's a labyrinth of ambitions and machinations, all culminating in a single, obsessive goal - domination."

The words hung heavy in the cramped space, each syllable echoing the stark reality they were rapidly approaching.

"He's set his sights on the Kree Empire," Derreck continued, his gaze growing more intense. "And he isn't just plotting - he's ready. His plan is set in motion, and he intends to have them under his rule within the next day."

The revelation sent a chill through the Quinjet. The Kree Empire, one of the universe's most potent civilizations, was on the brink of falling to a malevolent force like Darkseid. The consequences were unthinkable.

"We have to stop him," Batman said, breaking the heavy silence. His voice was firm, resolute. There was no room for doubt in this fight. They were up against a formidable foe, but they were determined to do whatever it took to prevent Darkseid's dark vision from becoming a reality.

…

A short while later…

The occupants of the Quinjet fell into a thoughtful silence as they processed Derreck's words. Here was a man who was not only undaunted by the idea of facing Darkseid in battle, but was actively volunteering for it.

"Why not face him in combat of honor?" Derreck suggested, a nonchalant shrug playing across his broad shoulders. His tone was matter-of-fact, but his words belied the gravity of the situation.

"Darkseid and I, one on one," he continued, his gaze steady on the others in the aircraft. "After all, I'm virtually invincible, and if I'm correct, I should be able to mimic his abilities."

There was a beat of silence. It was true that Derreck was one of the most powerful entities among them, thanks to his unique ability to mimic the powers of others. His proposal was certainly audacious, and yet it had a kind of logic to it.

"He's got a point," Batman agreed, finally breaking the silence. His gaze met Derreck's, acknowledging the weight of the proposition. "With your power mimicry and invulnerability, you stand the best chance against him."

"But it's risky," Wonder Woman interjected, her eyes flashing with concern. "Darkseid is not to be underestimated."

Derreck nodded, acknowledging her concern. "True, but what choice do we have? I'm ready to face him. And if things go sideways, I'm counting on all of you to jump in."

With that, they began to construct their plan, their determination solidifying with each passing second. They had a formidable enemy ahead of them, but they were prepared to do whatever it took to thwart Darkseid's ambitions.

…

"Just one more thing I need to do," Derreck said, his voice resolute. A moment later, his monolith transformed seamlessly into a black bearded axe, settling comfortably into his grip. He examined the weapon, testing its weight and balance, and then gave a single, confident nod.

"Okay," he declared, his voice steady, "now I'm ready."

Superman and Wonder Woman exchanged glances. It was their first real encounter with Derreck, and his demeanor was unlike anything they'd seen before. In the face of an imminent showdown with one of the most fearsome beings in existence, he was calm, even nonchalant.

His expression was almost too bland, too devoid of fear, for such a perilous situation. It was as if he was about to embark on an ordinary mission, not a deadly confrontation with Darkseid.

Yet there was a quiet determination in his eyes that was hard to ignore, a sense of resolve that was as unyielding as the axe he now held.

Batman, familiar with Derreck's disposition, just nodded. He knew Derreck's strengths and abilities and trusted him. He knew the daunting task ahead would be in good hands.

With their plan finalized, they headed towards the Kree Empire, ready to face whatever awaited them.

Their arrival at the Kree Empire was met with a scene of terror. Darkseid, a towering figure of malevolent authority, held the Kree leaders in his vicious grip. His parademons, frightening creatures with soulless eyes, were forcing the terrified citizens to kneel before their new, impending ruler. The air was thick with fear, the tension palpable.

Darksied, immersed in a monologue, was almost finished declaring his plans for domination, when he trailed off abruptly. A shadow fell across his face as his gaze turned, sweeping the new arrivals. His cruel eyes raked over Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman and the others - unfamiliar faces that he couldn't place.

Then, they settled on the last figure, standing tall and resolute. His eyes narrowed, a spark of curiosity and suspicion igniting in their depths. The figure was Derreck, an enigma that he couldn't quite understand, a variable he hadn't accounted for.

A flicker of doubt, perhaps even unease, crossed Darkseid's features for the briefest moment before it was replaced with the cold mask of confidence. This was a development he hadn't anticipated. But whatever challenge this Derreck posed, Darkseid was prepared to crush it, just as he planned to crush the Kree Empire under his reign.

Darkseid's eyes lingered on Derreck, a clear sense of intrigue creeping into his gaze. It wasn't just Derreck's unreadable expression that held his interest. There was something more, something deeper. A sense of familiarity, yet an enigma that stirred the dread lord's curiosity. It was a sensation akin to looking into a distorted mirror of himself, a reflection with a surface that shifted and twisted in unimaginable ways.

"You..." Darkseid began, his voice booming through the air like a thunderclap. "You are an oddity...an anomaly. I can't decipher you, not like the others." He waved a dismissive hand towards Batman and the rest. "You're like a swarm of microscopic, writhing tendrils given form, constantly altering at the most minuscule levels. Fascinating..."

A hint of grudging respect, even admiration, had seeped into Darkseid's tone as he studied Derreck. The inability to scan him, the elusive, continuously changing nature of his being; it was both puzzling and intriguing.

For the first time in ages, the mighty Darkseid was faced with a mystery, a challenge that piqued his interest beyond the mere conquest of worlds. This was a being that was not just a mirror, but also a churning, nebulous vortex of unpredictability. A figure that could hold his own, even against the likes of Darkseid himself. The stakes had just risen, and the game had become all the more interesting.

"What do you seek here... enigmatic destroyer?" Darkseid asked, his deep voice reverberating throughout the room.

Derreck looked at him, unblinking and unperturbed by the imposing figure. With a casual shrug, he responded, "How about this... I challenge you to a duel. If I win, you leave the Kree alone. If you win..." he paused, making sure Darkseid was hanging on his every word, "You get to examine me, study me... whatever it is you desire."

The room went quiet. All eyes were on Derreck, including those of the parademons. His offer was a risky gamble, but it was a chance they had to take. His indifferent demeanor, his nonchalant approach to the grave situation was unsettling, yet it seemed to resonate with Darkseid.

"Does that sound fair to you?" Derreck finished, his eyes meeting Darkseid's. His tone was calm, as if he was discussing the weather instead of potentially risking his life and the safety of an entire civilization. But therein lay his power - his unflappable spirit, even in the face of adversity.

Darkseid remained silent for a moment, his impenetrable gaze lingering on Derreck. He was not used to being challenged so directly, let alone by someone who seemed so nonchalant about the prospect of defeat. However, the idea of being able to dissect such a unique entity was an enticing prospect.

"Very well," Darkseid finally responded, his voice resonating with an underlying tone of intrigue. "Your audacity is...uncommon, to say the least. I accept your challenge, enigmatic one."

A twisted sense of amusement flickered in Darkseid's eyes as he regarded Derreck. This would either be a short-lived amusement, or a surprising revelation. Either outcome was bound to be quite interesting.

…

After moving a short trip to Darksied's arena…

As the atmosphere grew tense with anticipation, Darkseid released his formidable Omega Beams towards Derreck. The destructive energy beams, known for their power and precision, raced towards him in a zig-zag pattern, aiming to obliterate everything in their path.

Derreck, however, simply stood in place, a grin stretching across his face, revealing rows of serrated teeth. He looked as though he was not standing in the face of certain death, but rather on the verge of an exciting thrill.

The impact was explosive, the Omega Beams ignited the area around Derreck in a blinding blast of fiery light, scorching the earth beneath him and sending a shockwave that echoed throughout the arena.

For a moment, silence fell, all eyes on the smoking crater left by the attack. However, as the smoke began to dissipate, a figure emerged unscathed amidst the destruction. Derreck. His clothes were slightly singed, but he himself appeared completely untouched. His grin, now wider, conveyed an excitement that was almost infectious.

A ripple of disbelief washed over the onlookers. Darkseid's advisors exchanged startled glances, struggling to comprehend what they had just witnessed. On the other side, Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and the others were just as surprised, their eyes wide. However, they didn't have the luxury of time to stay shocked for long - they had to prepare for what would come next. After all, the battle had just begun.

Each of Darkseid's powerful blows landed with a crushing force, shattering the ground beneath them. Each omega beam, each blow was an exhibition of unyielding power. Yet, despite the destructive might behind each assault, Derreck emerged from the wreckage each time. He'd simply climb out of the resulting crater, dust himself off and prepare for the next round.

This display of resilience was unsettling to the despot. Darkseid had faced many opponents, yet none who could shrug off his attacks so nonchalantly. His frustration grew with each futile attempt.

Then, in a blink-and-you-miss-it moment, Derreck shot his arm forward. His body rippled, a flurry of worm-like tendrils transforming into an array of deadly weapons. Chainsaws, buzz-saws, drills, all twelve limbs now resembling the tools of destruction.

Caught off-guard, Darkseid was forced into the defensive. He weaved and bobbed, narrowly avoiding each swing and thrust of Derreck's arsenal. The tables were turning, and a thrill of anticipation surged through the gathered crowd. Could it be that the invincible tyrant was finally meeting his match?

Derreck's elbow landed in Darkseid's gut with a small thud, but the shockwave it produced was seismic, deafening. The sound echoed across the stadium, the impact causing a crater to form in the ground. Darkseid was hurled back violently into the arena wall, a cloud of dust and debris rising around him.

The spectators stood in silence, shocked expressions on their faces. Even Darkseid's advisors watched wide-eyed, stunned at the sight of their mighty lord reeling from a single, effortless elbow strike.

Batman, Wonder Woman, Superman, and the others gaped in awe. Despite knowing of Derreck's unusual abilities, the ease with which he managed to land a heavy blow on Darkseid was astounding.

Among the Kree, there was a mixed reaction. Some were terrified, others cautiously optimistic, whispering among themselves. Could this unknown entity truly defeat Darkseid?

Meanwhile, Luminous Frost was watching quietly, his icy blue eyes showing approval. He was familiar with Derreck's capabilities, and the sight of Darkseid being sent flying brought a faint, pleased smile to his face.

As for Derreck himself, he stood in the center of the arena, his expression as bland as ever. Only a flicker of interest, a glimmer of engagement, played across his face, a faint hint of the immense power he held in check.

Darkseid's wrath was palpable, it crackled around him like a furious storm. His normally stone-like composure had been shattered, much like the cracks now appearing in his armored skin. He roared in anger, an inhuman sound that resonated through the arena, setting the very ground quaking beneath their feet.

Rising from the dust of his impact, Darkseid's eyes glowed brighter with malevolent energy. He levitated from the ground, his aura flaring, as he channeled his immense power into a concentrated blast. His arms stretched out, fingers clawed as he targeted the indifferent figure in the center of the arena.

With a thunderous bellow, Darkseid unleashed the full fury of his Omega Beams, two searing rays of destructive energy, aimed directly at Derreck. This time, he intended to incinerate his opponent, to erase him from existence. The sheer intensity of the energy discharge illuminated the arena, casting long and terrifying shadows, making the spectators shield their eyes from the blinding light.

And yet, through it all, Derreck remained unmoved, his expression still unchanged. His eyes met the incoming beams, that same flicker of interest flashing across his face, as if this was merely a challenge he had been waiting for.

Once Darkseid's beams had ceased, the aftermath was a scene of absolute devastation, the ground charred and smoking. Yet, in the middle of the scorched earth, Derreck stood unscathed. A silence fell upon the arena, every eye locked on him, waiting for his next move.

His eyes seemed far-off, deep in thought as he slowly tilted his head, scrutinizing the fuming Darkseid. Then, his face lit up in sudden realization, a hint of amusement glimmering in his eyes.

"I get it now," he announced, his voice echoing in the stunned silence. "I know why you're so angry..."

Everyone in the arena leaned in, anticipating his revelation, expecting a profound insight into Darkseid's rage.

"...You're wearing a skirt," Derreck blurted out, pointing at Darkseid's lower armor that bore resemblance to a warrior's skirt.

The reaction was immediate. A stunned silence quickly gave way to an array of reactions - some blinked in disbelief, some shook their heads in disbelief, and a few even snickered. But most notable was the absolute silence from Darkseid himself, the mighty ruler completely taken aback by the absurdly clueless statement.

Everyone on the battlefield stood in stunned silence at Derreck's unexpected comment. Batman's eyes widened behind his mask, before a faint hint of an amused smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth. Ciri and Letho exchanged a look of disbelief, their faces morphing from shock to amusement. Sonic's eyes grew wide, his face a picture of disbelief before he burst into uncontrolled laughter. Kirby blinked in astonishment, looking at Sonic and then at Derreck with wide, puzzled eyes.

Logan, standing next to the bemused Superman and Wonder Woman, released a huff of laughter, shaking his head with an incredulous grin. "This guy..." he muttered, nudging Superman with his elbow.

On Darkseid's side, his advisors reacted differently. DeSaad, Darkseid's sinister counselor, blinked in shock, his jaw hanging open. Granny Goodness, usually so fierce, stood as if paralyzed, her wrinkled face a mask of disbelief. Steppenwolf, Darkseid's loyal general, staggered back a step as if physically hit by Derreck's statement.

Amongst the spectators, even the most hardened soldiers of the Kree Empire, who had been watching with stoic expressions, found their impassive masks faltering. Several stifled chuckles while others merely blinked, their alien features twisting in confusion and disbelief.

The biggest reaction, of course, came from Darkseid himself. His eyes, usually so cold and emotionless, widened in shock. Then they narrowed into an enraged glower, glaring at Derreck as though he could obliterate him with his gaze alone. It was the first crack in the formidable, stone-like facade of the ruler of Apokolips, and everyone was there to witness it.

"Did I say something wrong?" Derreck inquired, a genuine look of confusion painting his features. Just as the words left his lips, Darkseid had had enough. With a speed that belied his enormous form, he surged forward, wrapping his gargantuan hands around Derreck and violently tearing him in half. Yet the halves remained attached, connected by a fluttering mass of writhing, worm-like tentacles that resembled a centipede.

"Why... won't... you... die... whelp!" Darkseid bellowed, a resounding roar echoing throughout the battlefield. Undeterred, the two halves of Derreck seamlessly rejoined and he stood upright, casually brushing himself off as though he'd just taken a leisurely stroll.

Suddenly, Darkseid brandished his Agony Matrix, the deadly weapon aimed directly at Derreck. He fired, and an unexpected grin stretched across Derreck's face. He seemed to be delighting in the chaos, a wild, untamed light shining in his eyes for the first time.

"Hey, you there! Skirt guy!" he shouted, his voice echoing around the battlefield, "Hit me again! Harder this time! I want to feel it. I've never felt anything before. Please, hit me!"

His plea was met with a stunned silence that spread throughout the battlefield. His allies, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Superman, wore expressions ranging from wide-eyed shock to gaping disbelief. The other members of his team, Logan, Ciri, Letho, Sonic, and even Kirby, were all equally taken aback, their faces a study of bewilderment. Even Darkseid's closest advisors had their jaws hanging open, unable to comprehend the madness unfolding before their eyes.

Darkseid, driven by a savage and relentless determination, continued to unleash the Agony Matrix's brutal torment onto Derreck. With each subsequent blast, the sensation started slipping away from Derreck, forcing the device to dish out increasing levels of pain to elicit a response from the unnerving entity that Derreck was.

Unexpectedly, the Agony Matrix sparked and whirred uncontrollably, its mechanism pushed far beyond its limits. As if locked in a macabre dance of destruction, Derreck found himself at the epicenter of the device's torturous energy field. It was unthinkable, unimaginable, yet the previously unscathed Derreck began to bear the marks of the intense onslaught.

"No! No! No! I can't feel it anymore! I've adapted to it!" He roared, the sound rippling through the battlefield. An insurmountable sense of loss washed over him as he realized that the pain, the one sensation he had been yearning for, was now beyond his reach. And then he began to scream. A gut-wrenching wail of despair that echoed across the battlefield, signaling his profound agony - not from physical pain, but from the loss of experiencing it.

The reactions from the gathered crowd were a shocking tableau of surprise, fear, and in some cases, a profound empathy.

Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman exchanged tense looks. Their faces, normally stoic and unreadable, revealed a mix of shock and horror. They'd battled all manner of foes before, but this was something entirely different.

Meanwhile, in the stands, Logan watched the unfolding scene, a deep sense of understanding in his eyes. He had lived through countless horrors and he recognized the anguish of loss, even in this bizarre context. His claws extended involuntarily, a sign of his deeply rooted empathy.

Ciri and Letho shared uneasy glances, their normally steely expressions showing signs of concern. Kirby and Sonic, typically the most vibrant of the group, looked on with wide, shocked eyes, their usual joviality replaced with morbid curiosity.

Darksied's advisors were dumbfounded. DeSaad, the cunning and long-lived strategist, stared in terrified disbelief. Granny Goodness, the cruel matron of the orphanage, clung to her armrest, her knuckles whitening.

The Parademons rustled uneasily, their collective hissing filling the air with a sense of dread. Their usual lack of emotion was interrupted by an unsettling display of uncertainty and fear.

And Darkseid himself, the mighty ruler of Apokolips, found his certainty shattered. He had always been the one to inflict pain, but now, he was witness to a spectacle of agony he could neither comprehend nor control. His stone-like face showed a rare flicker of fear as he watched the Agony Matrix's energy dissipate in Derreck's screams.

The sight of Derreck, howling in despair, not from the torment he was undergoing, but from the sudden absence of it, was a chilling spectacle. The one time this extraordinary creature could feel something, and it was brutally snatched away from him. This was not just a battle; it was a haunting display of a creature grappling with a sensation it was cruelly denied. And it seemed, the nightmare was far from over.

The sheer intensity of Derreck's anger seemed to shift the very air around them, lending a palpable charge to the atmosphere. His previously indifferent gaze had transformed into a blazing inferno of wrath, as he locked eyes with Darkseid.

In an almost blurred motion, he lunged at Darkseid with an inhuman speed, his hand coiling around the god's neck like a vice. Hoisting Darkseid off the ground, he brought him down to his eye level, shaking him with a force akin to an earth-shattering tremor.

The rage in his voice was raw and untamed, his words spilling forth like the roars of a wounded beast. "WHY! WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS TO ME?!" He punctuated each word with a fierce shake, causing Darkseid to bob like a ragdoll in his grasp.

"WHY WOULD YOU TAKE THIS FROM ME?!" The plea was desperate and tinged with a profound sadness. A sadness borne from the cruel denial of the only sensation he had ever truly known, a contrast to the monotonous void of his existence.

"THE ONE TIME I CAN FEEL SOMETHING OTHER THAN THE NOTHINGNESS THAT MAKES UP MY FORM..." His voice trailed off into a low growl, filled with a deep-seated resentment and an unbearable despair.

"WHYYYYYY?!" His final cry echoed through the arena, the sheer pain and anger reverberating around the stunned onlookers. In that moment, Derreck was no longer the indifferent, invulnerable entity. He was a creature in pain, yearning for a sensation, a connection to existence that was cruelly snatched from him.

Derreck's blazing gaze shifted from Darkseid, travelling up to the stands where his friends stood. Their faces were etched with an array of emotions - a mixture of empathy, horror, and disbelief.

Among them, Logan's expression stood out. His eyes held a certain understanding, a depth of empathy that resonated with Derreck. Perhaps it was the familiarity of their unique pains, or the silent communication that passed between warriors. In that brief glance, an unspoken understanding bridged the gap between them.

With a final glare at Darkseid, Derreck released his grasp. His anger seemed to ebb away, replaced by a weary resignation. His voice, once filled with raw rage, had returned to its indifferent monotone.

"Okay... that's enough..." He straightened up, his towering form casting an imposing shadow over the god at his feet. His gaze bore into Darkseid's, an unspoken demand for the tyrant to heed his words.

"Will you please honor your word and leave this world be now...?" The question hung in the air, a plea for peace, an appeal for Darkseid to adhere to the terms of their battle. The quiet strength in Derreck's request made it clear - he would not back down until the promise was kept.

Darkseid, still gripped by the intensity of Derreck's rage, took a few moments to regain his composure. His gaze was locked with Derreck's, their stare-down silent yet potent.

Slowly, ever so slowly, he began to nod. His gaze never strayed from the anomalous being before him, and the acknowledgment was subtle but clear. A cautious agreement, a sign of his acceptance of the terms laid out before him.

As he gradually came back to his senses, the wheels in his mind started to turn. He was trying to comprehend the scene that had just unfolded, trying to make sense of the mystery that was Derreck. The unyielding being standing before him was an enigma, a puzzle that his calculating, strategic mind struggled to understand.

Darkseid, the God of Tyranny, a being used to having all the answers, found himself in a rare state of bewilderment. Yet, amidst the confusion, one thing was evident - he had been bested, not by brute force alone but by the sheer unpredictability and resilience of his opponent.

"Okay... thanks..." Derreck said casually, breaking the tense silence that had settled over the scene. His words were nonchalant, carrying an ease that sharply contrasted the recent chaos.

With that, he turned around and began to walk back towards his friends. His steps were unhurried, his posture relaxed. There was a distinct sense of normality to his demeanor, as though the intense confrontation with Darkseid was nothing more than a minor blip in his day.

However, the underlying hint of disappointment remained. It lingered around him, subtle but tangible. Despite his seemingly carefree exterior, Derreck was unable to completely mask the letdown he felt. The brief taste of feeling, of genuine physical sensation had tantalized him, and its sudden loss left a bitter sting. Yet, he bore it all silently, tucking away his discontentment beneath his placid exterior as he rejoined his friends.

Following Darksied's unspoken command, his forces immediately ceased their assault. The Parademons fell back, releasing the Kree leaders they had held captive, their grotesque forms retreating hastily into the darkness. The rush to depart was palpable in their every movement, as though they were all too aware of the potential wrath of the seemingly innocuous being they had just witnessed in action.

As soon as Darksied's forces had vacated the area, Derreck turned to address the Kree leaders. "Anything else?" he asked, his voice returning to its usual calmness. "Anything you need before we return to Earth?"

A Kree leader, still a little shaken from the recent events, shook his head. "Nothing that comes to mind..." he replied, his voice raspy and tired.

With that, Derreck turned and began to make his way back towards the Quinjet, the sleek Avengers vehicle waiting patiently in the background. His friends followed, their steps carrying a hint of relief as they began to process what they had just witnessed.

As they began the journey back to Krakoa, a silence hung heavy in the Quinjet, broken only by the faint hum of the engine and occasional soft murmur of communication from the pilot. The usually chatty team seemed subdued, each lost in their own thoughts, processing the events they had just witnessed.

Batman, sitting stoically in one corner, had his brows furrowed, a clear sign of his deep contemplation. He was a man who prided himself on understanding his allies and enemies alike, but with Derreck, he felt an unsettling sense of unease. The power displayed by the younger man, his indifference to pain and suffering, it was...disturbing.

Superman, too, was lost in thought. He had seen many things in his long career as a hero, but this was new, different. He had witnessed firsthand the immense power and unyielding resilience of Derreck, a being who shrugged off even the most devastating attacks as though they were nothing. It was both awe-inspiring and terrifying.

Wonder Woman sat quietly, her gaze distant. She had faced gods and monsters, had witnessed acts of great courage and terrible cruelty, but she had never seen anything quite like this. The fact that Derreck had been so desperate to feel pain, to feel anything, struck a chord deep within her. She found herself grappling with a mix of empathy and wariness for the enigmatic figure.

Amid the quiet, it was Logan who finally broke the silence. "Kid," he started, his voice gravelly, "what you did back there... That was something else." There was a pause, as he chose his words carefully. "But remember, we're here for you. You're not alone in this, alright?"

Derreck, sitting separately from the rest, offered a small, almost imperceptible nod in response. "I know," he said, his voice barely a whisper. "I'm not alone. I have all of you." His words, while simple, carried a weight that subtly lifted the tense atmosphere in the Quinjet.

In the end, they were a team, and they would face whatever came next together. And for now, that meant returning home.

How long have you been like this? wonder woman asked.

Silence blanketed the interior of the Quinjet as Derreck unspooled his personal history to his comrades. The sheer depth of the tragedy of his origin seemed almost impossible to grasp.

"I came into being, but not in the conventional sense," he started, his tone detached as if he was recounting someone else's story. "My mother, Mistress Death, wasn't aware of my existence. She discarded me, not out of malice, but sheer grief, and obliviousness. She simply didn't know what to do."

At the mention of 'Mistress Death', Wonder Woman and Superman exchanged a surprised look, while Batman and Logan remained stoic, their expressions unreadable. They already knew the weight that the name carried.

He continued with a far-off look in his eyes, "I was discovered in an alleyway by a rat. Oddly, it was as compassionate as a rat could be. I hold no resentment towards my mother. It wasn't her fault. She was simply unaware."

Then, turning to address Wonder Woman directly, he added, "So, to answer your question, Diana, I've been like this for about... twenty-seven years now."

And then, as though he'd just remembered something crucial, he tacked on, "I missed my birthday."

The sudden mundane concern amidst the heavy atmosphere felt bizarrely grounding. This being, as powerful and mystifying as he was, was bothered by missing his birthday. It was a sobering reminder that despite everything, Derreck was still inextricably tied to the facets of humanity.

The Quinjet filled with another stretch of silence as Derreck paused, his gaze lost somewhere in the distance. His next words held a note of melancholy, a longing for the everyday experiences that his friends often took for granted.

"You know," he began slowly, "I can't eat. Not because I don't want to, but because it does nothing for me. I can't taste the food, can't feel it in my stomach... it just passes through me as if I'm not even there."

The friends shared another glance, the weight of his words sinking in. To them, food was a simple pleasure, a necessity, a comfort. To Derreck, it was another piece of the puzzle of life that he was forever barred from.

He continued, his tone dropping further, "And sleep. I can't sleep. I often wonder what it's like... to be able to close my eyes and wake up after hours, refreshed, and maybe even having dreamed."

Out of them all, only Logan truly understood the depth of Derreck's words. He too had once lived a life that was far from what could be considered normal. His heart went out to the enigmatic being, the lonely soul, who was left to drift in the strange space between life and death. Derreck wasn't just surviving, he was yearning for the simple things, the most human things.

For the first time, the full extent of Derreck's isolation became clear to them. And with it, came a newfound respect and a deeper understanding of their unique companion.

"Anyway," Derreck abruptly shifted gears, disrupting the heavy silence that had enveloped the Quinjet. His voice now carried a certain degree of eagerness. "Superman, Wonder Woman, I can't wait for you two to meet some friends of mine back on Krakoa. You'll love them."

He began to enumerate the names as if he were presenting a checklist of his dearest acquaintances. "Regis, Dettlaff, Geralt... and so many more. They are, each in their own way, quite... unique."

A wave of curiosity stirred within Superman and Wonder Woman. Each name was unfamiliar, yet exuded an undeniable intrigue. Superman's attention, in particular, was caught by the mention of Geralt, having heard tales of the famed Witcher from another dimension, a formidable monster hunter for hire.

Perhaps, despite the startling event they had just witnessed involving their mysterious friend, there was still a spot for a glimmer of hope, a hint of anticipation, and the potential for new alliances. After all, Derreck, with all his peculiarities, had proven to be a reliable companion and an enigma worth unraveling. As their journey back to Krakoa progressed, they found themselves anticipating the meeting with these unknown characters and uncovering more about the enigmatic being that was their friend, Derreck.

"Oh, and before I forget," Derreck added, an air of mischief in his eyes. "There's someone else you should meet. Another version of Batman, quite unlike the one we know and love."

Superman turned a questioning gaze towards Batman, who merely shrugged, his lips curling up in a small, knowing smile. He was familiar with the quirky character Derreck was referring to.

"He's called 'Lego Batman.' A unique character, that's for sure," Derreck continued, his tone playfully teasing. "But, rest assured, he'll keep you entertained. Our Batman here," he nodded in the Dark Knight's direction, "can attest to that. He'll be the one to do the introductions. Trust me, it's going to be quite an encounter."

As the Quinjet soared through the cosmos, a sense of surreal expectancy filled its occupants. They'd just thwarted a cosmic despot, experienced the perplexingly durable nature of Derreck firsthand, and now they were about to engage with a plastic iteration of their grim companion. With the promise of more extraordinary encounters to come, the return journey to Krakoa was anything but mundane. The anticipation of the next chapter of their adventure made the cosmos seem a little less vast and a lot more intriguing.