Episode 4: Steps into Darkness


The Watchtower: several members of the Justice League are sitting around the U-shaped table, having a debate.

Superman:
Mister Miracle and Big Barba have informed us that Granny Goodness is planning something big in Darkseid's absence. But what exactly, I don't know.

Wonder Woman:
We'll have to keep a close eye on her.

Shazam:
I thought we destroyed her during the Apokolips Civil War that erupted in the wake of Darkseid's disappearance. How can she possibly come back?

Superman:
She and the furies were exiled to one of the moons; she recently paid Warworld a visit.

Plastic Man:
What was she doing there?

Superman:
Wanting to train her furies through the use of Slade's last apprentice; the hybrid of my son and Nightwing's daughter.

Wonder Woman:
Bruce told us Mar'i is dating Damian.

Hal Jordan:
Martin told me your son and Lian are an item. How could you not know that Clark?

Superman:
I guess Jon's been so busy between his duties as Superboy and the internship at the Daily Planet, he never got around to telling me.

Wonder Woman:
Even I am surprised they're an item; I assumed Jon and Mar'i would've ended up a couple.

Hal Jordan:
It just wasn't meant to be, I suppose.

Superman:
Still, I should ask him about his relationship with Lian the next time I see him.

Zatanna:
Speaking of Nightwing, he told me about Klarion. He's causing chaos again with Raven's son.

Flash:
Could Kacey be in danger?

Zatanna:
It's possible but I'm bringing the Justice League Dark together to make a plan.

Zeta Tube:
DESIGNATION- RAVEN. DESIGNATION- CHANGELING.

Superman:
Raven, Changeling, we were just talking about your son.

Raven:
That's what we need to discuss.

The two take their seats.

Wonder Woman:
So you're aware of Klarion coming to your son too?

Raven:
Yes. We're also here to tell you to keep an eye on a new enemy that might be after Murdoc as we speak.

Superman:
New enemy? Who?

Raven:
My brothers; Wrath, Envy, and Lust.

Plastic Man:
Three of the seven deadly sins.

Raven:
And they represent those sins to a 'T'.

Changeling:
Raven, the rest of the former Titans, and I just had a confrontation with them in the underworld not too long ago.

Flash buries his head in his arms. Superman looks at him.

Superman:
Flash, why didn't you bother telling us about this?

Flash:
Ghosts, zombies, gargoyles.

Changeling:
He's right about that. Raven's brothers summoned all of those creatures, and they're probably capable of summoning a lot more.

Raven:
Which is why I've enlisted the help of the Justice League Dark, and I wish to enlist your help too.

Zeta Tube:
DESIGNATION- JOHN CONSTANTINE. DESIGNATION- ETRIGAN.

Changeling:
Well, speak of the devil.

John Constantine:
You tried to cheat!

Etrigan:
You tried to sabotage me!

Raven:
Ahem.

Constantine and Etrigan stop arguing to notice that they're in the presence of Raven, Changeling, and some of the Justice League.

John Constantine:
You called. (Notices Zatanna) Evening, love.

Zatanna:
For the last time, John, you're barking up the wrong tree.

John Constantine:
I keep forgetting the magic has worn off between us, Zee.

Zatanna rolls her eyes as Raven calls everyone's attention back to her. Constantine and Etrigan take their seats.

Raven:
So you're all familiar with Trigon; but not as familiar with his sons. As Patrick explained, they embodied deadly sins. However, they can also take the forms of humans. I'm afraid that they're going to turn into someone we trust in order to get to our son.

Zatanna:
I could be in a bar and the guy sitting next to me would not be a human without me realizing it.

Changeling:
Which is why we need all of your help.

Raven:
Murdoc got a visit from Klarion; I've never met him, but Nightwing has.

Etrigan:
Klarion? That brat is back?

Zatanna:
Yes.

Etrigan:
(Turns to Raven and Changeling) What do you think he wants with your boy? You think he's in league with your brothers?

Zatanna:
From the time I've known Klarion, he's not one to make partnerships with others.

Raven:
All we know, based on what Murdoc told us, is that Klarion told him that the visions he's been getting are premonitions of things to come.

Plastic Man:
What kind of things?

Raven:
Basically, the end of the world, no doubt triggered by the return of my father.

Plastic Man:
We've come close to that catastrophe.

Raven:
Well now it's going to happen again, but not if we act now.

Etrigan:
By killing your son?

Changeling:
No!

John Constantine:
I mean it would solve the problem, and don't you two have like two more kids?

Raven:
We are not killing Murdoc!

Superman:
We're not killing anyone's kid. We'll just have to patrol the globe more often and keep an eye out for any signs of paranormal activity.

Shazam:
And where are we going to find such activity? Drop in on a magic show or a kids' birthday party?

John Constantine:
Not a bad idea.

Raven:
You're not entirely sober yet are you?

John Constantine:
No.

Green Arrow:
Like Superman said, we'll just have to do our patrols more often. Split up in designated areas around the world, and keep an eye out for anything suspicious.

Superman:
Do we have any volunteers?

Flash looked very uneasy; Hal Jordan looks around at the others; Plastic Man morphs into a ball and rolls away.

Zatanna:
I guess they can stick around here and guard the tower. But I'm more than ready to help in the search for Raven's brothers.

Wonder Woman:
If anyone needs me, I'll be on Themyscira.

She gets up and leaves.

Superman:
(Turns to Raven and Changeling) Of course you two should know that you always have my full support.

Changeling:
We'll do whatever is necessary to protect our family Supes.

Etrigan:
We'll offer as much help as we can on our end too.

Raven:
Thanks Etrigan.

Flash:
What worries me the most is that Kacey could be a collateral victim in this story.

Raven:
She won't.

John Constantine:
She might. But we won't let that happen

Superman:
You're all dismissed

As they departed, Raven suddenly groaned and held on to her stomach like she were on fire.

Changeling:
Rae?

Raven:
I'm fine. I don't think I'm eating properly.

Changeling:
You probably need some herbal tea.

Changeling takes off for the mess hall; Raven follows.


Jump City- the following morning. At the Logan Residence, Kacey (who had stayed the previous night) and Murdoc were snuggling in his bed. Someone knocks at his door then opens it; it's Paine.

Paine:
Murdoc, get up. Breakfast is nearly rea-

She notices Kacey.

Kacey:
Hi, Paine.

Paine:
What are you doing here, Kacey?

Kacey:
Your brother was feeling scared and lonely yesterday, so I figured I'd come over and spend the night with him.

Paine:
That's nice. And that's all that happened? Nothing else?

Kacey:
If we went down that route, you'd hear it.

Paine:
True. But as long as you're here, Kacey, I take it that you'll be joining us for breakfast?

Kacey:
What are we having?

Paine:
The usual.

Murdoc:
You want to stay with us?

Kacey:
As long as I'm near you, babe, I'll stick around for as long as I can.

Murdoc smiles and gets out of bed.

Murdoc:
Just gotta empty the hose first. I'll met you two downstairs.

Kacey:
Sounds good

Kacey gives her boyfriend a kiss on the cheek before going downstairs with Paine.


In the bathroom across the hall, Murdoc flushes the toilet and washes his hands at the faucet. He looks into the mirror and sees red smoke behind him. Murdoc gasps and turns around to find nothing.

Murdoc:
I'm imagining things.

Voice:
No you're not.

He turns back around and sees Klarion, sitting elegantly on the closed toilet.

Murdoc:
You again?!

Klarion:
Nice bathroom you've got here. Who does your interior work, the crown mildew is excellent?

Teekl mews.

Klarion:
Crown Moulding, whatever!

Murdoc:
What do you want this time? Why are you back here?

Klarion:
Your uncles will look for you, find you and... corrupt you. You can take as many precautions as you want, but that's just delaying the inevitable.

Murdoc:
Get out.

Klarion:
I can go whenever I want.

Murdoc:
Now.

Klarion:
Oh, fine. Come on Teekl, it's time we make like iced tea and leave.

Teekl mews.

Klarion:
HE KNOWS WHAT I MEANT!

He vanishes. Murdoc rolls his eyes before leaving the bathroom to go downstairs for breakfast.


He sits at the table next to Kacey, who was wolfing down waffles galore.

Kacey:
(Her mouth full) So delicious! You have to give me the recipe, Paine!

Paine:
Only if you stop eating like an animal before you choke.

Murdoc:
She's right babe, pace yourself. (Rubs her back)

Kacey begins chewing more slowly as Murdoc loads his plate.

Paine:
What took you so long in the bathroom, Murdoc?

Murdoc:
I had to get a fresh roll of toilet paper.

Paine takes a closer look at Murdoc to make sure he was telling the truth.

Murdoc:
It was Klarion again. He can't leave me alone.

Kacey:
Kick his ass the next time you see him. That should do the trick.

Lilith:
This Klarion guy sounds scary.

Murdoc:
I'm not scared of him. If anything I'm more annoyed by him. He's always telling me about the end of the world, but it's not going to happen is it?

Paine, Kacey, and Lilith fall silent as they're not sure how to respond to that statement.

Paine:
Don't think like that, Mudo.

Kacey:
Everything is going to be alright, babe.

Murdoc manages a smile.

Kacey:
So, where are your parents? Still up at the Watchtower or something?

Paine:
Mom's been having stomach issues lately.

Murdoc:
Sick? Pregnant?

Paine:
Unlikely; I haven't heard any sounds from their room at night.

Kacey:
You should hear my parents; they're at it at least once a week.

Murdoc:
Okay, I don't need to know your parents' sex lives. Or anyone's! Even Mom and Dads. For Azar sakes, Lilith is right here!

Lilith:
Hmm?

Murdoc:
Ignore us!

Paine:
I would have sensed if Mom was pregnant. But as far as I'm aware of, she isn't. Plus Dad had a vasectomy, remember?


Bludhaven; the same time. At the Bludhaven Police Department, Dick was being greeted by his boss, Commissioner Maggie Sawyer.

Maggie Sawyer:
How was your personal leave, lieutenant?

Dick:
Just great. I sorted out everything I wanted to get sorted out, and I feel a whole lot better. Thanks for asking. So, did anything interesting happen while I was gone?

Maggie Sawyer:
Aside from the Court of Owls and Jim's impending retirement, not much.

Dick:
I can't believe Jim is finally retiring. Are we doing anything special for his retirement party?

Maggie Sawyer:
He'll deliver a speech before introducing his successor, should be a pleasant evening.

Dick:
Has he talked to you in regards to who that successor might to be?

Maggie Sawyer:
Probably Montoya.

Dick:
Babs was telling me Gordon was considering Montoya for the role; she has proven herself time and time again to be more than capable and would make a worthy successor.

Maggie Sawyer:
So in other words, very good.

Dick:
Yes.

Maggie opens a drawer and pulls out a file.

Maggie Sawyer:
Here are the reports from last month; review them thoroughly.

Dick:
Don't I always?

He takes the file and leaves her office. He enters his own office (desk in the middle facing the door, a bookshelf loaded with binders sorted into files arranged alphabetically, and photographs of family and friends), sits down at his desk, opens the file and begins to read.

Dick:
Okay, a missing child in the city west, convenience store robbery on eighth street, arson in an apartment block. Wow, nothing has changed.

His phone starts ringing; he answers.

Dick:
Hello?

Raven (Voice):
Morning Dick. Back to work?

Dick:
Yeah. Sawyer's getting me to read review all the police reports from last month.

Raven (Voice):
I called just to ask you something; does Klarion's name ring any bells?

Dick opened a file on his computer, detailing all the criminals he encountered in the past listed A to Z. He opens a document titled "Klarion". The image showed a black-haired devil-horned boy wearing a black suit with an orange cat lying across his shoulders.

Dick:
He's the personification of chaos. I had to face him several times in my Young Justice days.

Raven (Voice):
Apparently, he's back.

Dick:
The only one that can fight him effectively now is Zatanna or Doctor Fate. His weak point is his cat. If you destroy him, he loses his anchor in our world.

Raven (Voice):
Thank you, Dick. Hopefully other foes from your old team will not resurface.

Dick:
Klarion was the most dangerous. Justly as your father.

Raven (Voice):
That's reassuring.

Dick:
If you want me to call Zatanna...

Raven (Voice):
No, I've already spoken to her. I don't want Kory to be jealous for nothing.

Dick:
Kory already knows about my past relationships; she's not jealous.

Raven (Voice):
Goodbye Don Juan.

Dick:
Good luck with your brothers.

They hang up. Maggie enters.

Maggie Sawyer:
Who was that?

Dick:
Just Rae. She just called to inquire about one of the faces in our 'rogues gallery' here.

Maggie Sawyer:
Lemme see.

Dick shows Sawyer the document on Klarion.

Maggie Sawyer:
Oh, this kid.

Dick:
You know him?

Maggie Sawyer:
Not personally. He's always out causing some kind of trouble. I thought he disappeared for good since we haven't heard from him in so long. If your friend called asking about him, I guess that means he resurfaced somewhere.

Dick:
And being a nuisance. If he really has resurfaced, God only knows what he's up to now.


At an amusement park in Happy Harbour, Klarion was walking where he saw a kid eating some cotton candy He grinned and then snapped his fingers, causing the cotton candy to catch fire. The kid cried at the demise of his candy treat. Klarion laughed as he continued walking.

Klarion:
Ah, feels good to be back causing some well needed chaos

He vanishes.


Gotham City - On a highway, someone is driving in their car while listening to loud music while tappnig on the steering wheel.

Driver:
(Singing off-key)
Tell me why, ain't nothing but a heartache!
Tell me why, ain't nothing but a mistake!
Tell me why, I never wanna hear you say:
I want it that- WAAAAAHHH!

The reason he screamed was because the highway in front of him suddenly started to rise up and take the form of a loop de loop; the cars behind him screech to a stop. As he's falling, he stops in mid-air. He looks outside to see he's been caught by Zatanna.

Zatanna:
For the record, your singing leaves a lot to be desired

Driver:
What the hell's going on with the road? It's turned into an amusement park!

Voice:
I thought the people would want some more excitement in their daily routine.

Zatanna looks over to see Klarion sitting in the air, cross-legged, stroking Teekl.

Zatanna:
Not you again.

Klarion:
Salutations Zatanna.

Teekl mews in response.

Zatanna:
I thought you'd be too busy harassing Raven and Changeling's son to cause wreak havoc on the public.

Klarion:
I've been gone for so long, I've missed a lot. I'm just playing catch-up.

Zatanna:
Well, you can take your little games somewhere else! Leave this world at once!

Klarion:
This world has so many wonderful toys; why would I want to leave?

Zatanna:
You're putting the lives of others at stake! As long as I'm here you won't be causing any more mischief!

Klarion:
If it's a rematch you want.

Klarion flings a fireball at Zatanna.

Zatanna:
Nrut llaberif otni retaw.

The fireball gets turned into a ball of water and it soaks Zatanna rather than burn her.

Klarion:
Hey! No fair!

As Zatanna glares at Klarion, the driver she saved was right next to her and staring at her wet form.

Driver:
So pretty...

Zatanna:
(Turns to the Driver) Would you just get out of here and find safety already?!

Driver:
Oh, right! (Runs away)

Zatanna:
Yrd Ffo.

Once she's dried off, Zatanna fires an electric spell at Klarion who warps away to dodge the attack.

Zatanna:
Where'd he go?

Klarion:
(From behind her) Peek-a-boo!

He shoots a fireball at her, knocking her back.

Klarion:
No offense, but your fighting style has gotten sloppy since the last time we fought each other.

Zatanna:
Was about to say the same thing about you.

She quickly fires an ice spell at Klarion's feet freezing him to the ground. She turns her attention to the highway.

Zatanna:
Tup eth doar kcab ot lamron.

The road starts to go back to the way it was before Klarion messed with it. As Zatanna works her magic on the road, Klarion snaps his fingers to melt the ice keeping him rooted to the ground.

Klarion:
I'd like to keep playing with you again but I have other things to do. Goodbye for now.

He teleports away. Zatanna sighs. She looks down at the crowd of onlookers that disperse; she notices a boy with glasses and a camera. She lowers down to him.

Zatanna:
Jon. What are you doing here?

Jon:
My job. I heard there was some supernatural activity going on and I was sent to investigate. You free for an interview?

Zatanna:
As long as it's a quick one.

Jon straightens his glasses and swaps his camera for a notepad.

Jon:
So what caused the highway to turn into a theme park ride?

Zatanna:
An old enemy of mine who goes by the name of Klarion, the Witch Boy.

Jon:
(Writing on his notepad) And how do you spell that?

Zatanna:
K, L, A, R, I, O, N.

Jon:
Thanks. Uncle Conner and Aunt Megan mentioned him a ton.

Zatanna:
The Justice League has been fighting the likes of him for years. We thought he disappeared for good after our last encounter with him, but now he's back, and apparently, he's been harassing Raven and Changeling's son, Murdoc.

Jon:
What's Murdoc got to do with him?

Zatanna:
From what Raven and Changeling told me and the rest of the League, Murdoc has been getting visions about these shadowy figures who are actually Raven's brothers.

Jon:
Auntie Rae has brothers?

Zatanna:
Yeah. Anyway, these visions usually involved the destruction of everything and everyone, and that Raven's brothers' sole goal is to resurrect Trigon.

Jon:
At least it's not Doomsday, even still.

Zatanna:
Believe us, Jon, we're all going to do our part to ensure that the visions Murdoc has been seeing don't come to pass.

Jon:
The rest of the Titans and I will be sure to do what we can too.

Zatanna:
Thanks for your time.

She flies away.

Jon:
(To himself) I've got to tell the rest of the Titans about what she just told me the first chance I get.

With that, he runs off and turns down an alleyway. Superboy flies out the other side of the alleyway.


Logan residence: Raven was walking into the bathroom with a towel.

Raven:
I'm going to have a shower Gar! Privately!

Changeling:
Okay! I'm making breakfast anyway!

Raven groaned as she held on to her stomach.

Raven:
What is going on with you?

When she got into the bathroom she took off her shirt (leaving her bra on) to inspect her body. She looked in the mirror to see that there were no marks.

Raven:
No marks; maybe it's just a stomach bug.

Then, all of a sudden, she felt her stomach hurt again But this time, when she looked down, it was moving on its own. She panicked as she fell on the floor and screamed. Changeling heard his wife scream from the kitchen (while he's making two breakfast burritos).

Changeling:
RAVEN?!

He ran toward the bathroom door and tried opening it but it wouldn't unlock.

Changeling:
RAVEN!

Raven continued screaming as the outline of someone's face began to form in-between her chest and midriff

Wrath:
Oh, hello sister!

Raven:
Wrath? How?

Then from out of nowhere, Envy's face appeared right on her belly button.

Envy
With help.

Lust's face then appears on the left of her belly button.

Lust:
From me.

Raven screamed as the door comes off its hinges and Changeling appears as a gorilla.

Changeling (turning back to normal):
Raven?!

Raven looks at her husband, then down at her body; the faces had gone.

Changeling:
Raven?

Raven:
My brothers.

Changeling:
What about them?

Raven:
They tried communicating with me through my abdomen.

Changeling:
What?

Raven:
It's an ancient form of demonic communication. Usually used during possessions or demonic pregnancies or as a means to torment someone. But what they do is they focus on someone they wish to talk to and their faces show up on their skin. First timers tend to cause pain to those they wish to communicate. My brothers must have learnt this ancient form of communication from someone.

Changeling doesn't speak; all he can do is comfort his wife.


Wayne Manor: Mar'i and Damian were in the gardens. Mar'i had brought Silkie over, and was introducing him to Titus. Titus was hiding behind Damian's legs, having not seen a Mutant Moth Larvae before and not knowing whether it was friend or foe.

Damian:
It's okay, Titus, I've known Silkie for years. He wouldn't hurt a fly.

Mar'i:
Come on Titus.

Titus cautiously walks up to the larvae. He sniffs him, then paws him. He also sniffs the larvae to make absolutely sure he's not a threat. When Titus learns that Silkie really is harmless the two of them begin to run around and play. Mar'i smiles.

Mar'i:
I knew they'd get along.

Damian:
Took a while.

They watch as Silkie rolls up into a ball and Titus pushes him.

Mar'i:
Play nice you two.

Stephanie comes outside holding Ellie, who was wearing a pink polka-dot dress.

Mar'i:
Oh, how cute!

Stephanie:
Thanks. Tim and I just brought this dress for her earlier today.

Mar'i approaches Ellie and rubs her cheek, causing the baby to giggle.

Mar'i:
She's certainly happy and healthy.

Damian:
Mar'i brought Silkie over so he and Titus could play.

Stephanie:
They look to be getting on just fine.

Damian:
It took a while for Titus to open up to him though.

Suddenly, Superboy appears and lands in front of Mar'i and Damian.

Damian:
Jon, what are you doing here?

Mar'i:
Is everything alright?

Superboy:
I just did an interview with Zatanna and I learned some information that you might like to hear in regards to Murdoc.

Mar'i:
It's about his visions isn't it?

Superboy:
Get changed and meet us at the tower.

Mar'i:
I'll bring Silkie back to our place and I'll meet you boys there.

Superboy flies away. Mar'i picks up Silkie and she and Damian go inside.

Damian:
Could have told us by next.

Mar'i:
Damian, don't be a negative Nancy.

Damian:
I'm just saying.


Jump City Titans Tower; later that day. The Teen Titans, minus Murdoc, are in the common room waiting. Eventually, Superboy enters the room, ready to address his friends.

Superboy:
You all know why you're here.

Emerald Witch:
We're going to go more in depth about my brother's visions and who Klarion is, right?

Superboy:
Exactly.

Superboy turns on the screen and presents the photos he took earlier that day.

Superboy:
Klarion transformed part of the highway going out of Gotham into a loop-de-loop. Fortunately, Zatanna was there to stop him and fix everything. But Klarion disappeared soon after the battle. Who knows where he is now or what he's doing.

Kid Flash:
Probably making more loop-de-loops?

Mor'gann:
Making statues walk?

Hornet:
Screwing with the TV broadcast to only show his face?

Superboy:
And something's telling me that he's capable of far worse things than that.

Crush:
Like causing all superheroines to go commando in public.

All the girls shudder at the thought. Impulse grins, causing Kid Flash to whack him in the back of the head.

Superboy:
I don't know what exactly Klarion is capable of, but it's clear he needs to be stopped before he gets out of hand. Especially since he's accosting one of our own.

As if on cue, Murdoc arrives. Superboy turns off the screen.

Crow:
Sorry I'm late, what's going on?

Superboy:
This is your intervention.

Emerald Witch:
Take a seat, Mudo.

Crow takes a seat in between his sisters.

Crow:
This is because I indirectly killed someone.

Superboy:
And about your new powers that your sister has told us about.

Crow:
I've done it before, but even then, I didn't kill anyone. This was just unfortunate timing.

Superboy:
Well, we need to tame this new power of yours before you do kill someone with it.

Crush:
You killed somebody? Way to go.

Nightstar:
This isn't something worth congratulating, Crush!

Crow:
Yeah, and it's not like I mean to kill the guy. It was a freak accident.

Crush gets up, shoves Beast Girl out of the way and sits next to Crow.

Crush:
So how'd you do it?

Crow:
I just, reached out my arm (stretches out his arm), concentrated and took complete control of his arm (He takes control of Alloroc's arm) and put his own gun to his head.

Alloroc:
(Nervously) Please let go of me before your powers suddenly activate!

Emerald Witch:
No good; he's in the zone. Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos.

She breaks Crow's control over Alloroc's arm.

Crow:
Thanks, sis.

Alloroc moves his arm freely.

Superboy:
There's clearly room for improvement.

Crow:
So where do we start?


The outside training area; Crow is standing before a series of dummies.

Crow:
I haven't done these since our first day as Teen Titans.

Robin:
We've got to start somewhere when tuning up these new powers of yours.

Superboy:
Just focus, Murdoc, we know you can do it.

Superboy turns on the dummies; their arms turn into blasters and they begin firing at Crow. Crow dodges the attacks, and when the dummies reload he holds his hand out, looking to use the same power he did on the gunman.

Beast Girl:
Come on, Mudo, focus!

As the dummies keep firing, one of the dummies suddenly changes target. It ends up targeting Kid Flash.

Kid Flash:
What the hell?!

The dummy begins firing; Kid Flash dodges the bullets.

Kid Flash:
Murdoc, stop!

Crow:
I can't!

Thanks to his powers, the dummy starts targeting the rest of the Teen Titans, who dodge out of the way of the bullets.

Nightstar:
Jon! Turn off the dummies now!

Superboy presses the button again; the dummies shut down and Crow returns to his senses.

Crow:
Damn it! Why can't I get these powers under control?!

Emerald Witch:
I keep asking myself the same thing.

Crow stays silent as he's lost in thought for a few moments. Eventually he gets a determined look in his face.

Crow:
I've got to keep trying.

Everyone looks doubtful.

Crush:
I love destruction as much as the next girl, but even I have to admit that you're crazy for wanting to keep trying after what you almost did to us.

Crow:
I'm sorry, but I have to get this under control before I kill any of you.

Black Arrow:
You almost did.

Alloroc:
If you are going to practice with your powers more, can you make sure we're as far away from you as possible?

Superboy
At least one of us needs to stay out here while he trains.

Emerald Witch:
He's my little brother. I guess I'll do it.

Crow:
You have better places to be?

Robin:
Yeah, and that place is far away from here, so we don't die.

One by one, the Titans leave, except for the Logans.

Crow:
You want to stick around and help me train too, Lilith?

Beast Girl:
Actually I'll be with Koro.

Avocet:
(Blushes) Oh, uh, sure! I'd love to hang out with you, Lilith. You want to get something to eat?

Beast Girl:
You bet!

She turns into a love bird and follows Avocet. Crow takes a deep breath.

Crow:
Alright, Paine, I'm ready.

Emerald Witch (Turns on the dummies):
Now concentrate, maintain control and don't try to kill me.

Crow:
Alright.

He closes his eyes and holds his arm out. The dummies, once again, attack Crow. As the projectiles fly towards him, however, his new powers activate and the projectiles stop coming at him and are floating in mid-air. Emerald Witch is stunned. By closing his fist, Crow destroys the projectiles.

Crow:
How was that?

Emerald Witch:
It's a pretty good start, but you still have a long way to go.

Crow:
Well, I'm ready, sis. I'm in this thing for the long haul. I might not have asked for these powers, but I wish to take good advantage of them while I got them.

Emerald Witch:
Don't take this for granted, Crazy Punk. Now, let's continue.

Crow:
Does it involve me using my powers on you and you trying to resist

Emerald Witch:
We need to get those powers completely under control before we test them on living targets. You destroying those projectiles could've just been a fluke.

She turns on the dummies again.

Crow:
Bring it on!

Crow tries controlling the dummies and they end up blasting each other.

Emerald Witch:
Ha. Stop shooting each other.

The dummies shoot each other into oblivion.

Crow:
I think I got it.

Emerald Witch:
You feeling good?

Crow:
Yeah. Just an ache in my shoulder but I'm fine. Well the ache is a lot worse than usual, but I still feel fine.


At the Logan Residence, Changeling and Raven were eating their late breakfast. Whilst Changeling was digging into his breakfast burrito, Raven was just staring at hers. Sensing something was wrong, Changeling stopped eating.

Changeling:
Rae?

Raven:
I don't know Gar. I sense that my brothers might show up again

Changeling:
Well, if they show up on your tongue just brush em

Raven laughs.

Raven:
Sure, they'd like the taste of mint. (Back to serious) I just don't feel like eating. I should go lie down.

Changeling:
Might be for the best

Raven:
And I need you to watch me. In case my brothers try to get to me again

Changeling:
You sure you don't want cuddles?

Raven:
Gar this is serious. Just watch me while I sleep.

Changeling:
So I guess this means we're not searching for Klarion.

Raven:
Exactly.

Changeling:
The kids are alright; they're training at the tower. Hopefully your brothers don't find Murdoc there.

Raven:
That scares me more than that movie you made us watch all those years ago.

Changeling:
You're never going to let me live that down, are you?

Raven:
Nope.

Changeling sits next to his wife as she lies down and closes her eyes. Changeling then moves in close to her stomach.

Changeling:
Okay, brothers-in-law, what do you want? You better poke your ugly faces out!

He lifted her shirt up.

Changeling:
Come on! Show your faces!

Then Murdoc appeared from the zeta tube.

Murdoc:
Hey Mom, Dad, I forgot my wallet have you…..

He saw his Dad standing in a position close to his sleeping mother's bare stomach.

Murdoc:
I….I just….

He vanishes. Changeling watches him leave, then refocuses on his sleeping wife.

Changeling:
Okay demonic brothers-in-law, show yourselves!


In Jump City, Koro and Lilith had changed into their civilian clothes and were sitting outside a café.

Lilith:
I'm really worried about Murdoc, Koro.

Koro:
Yeah, I hear you. I hope he get those weird powers of his under control soon.

Lilith:
More than that, I don't even know how powerful my uncles are if they're the reason for my brother's visions. I don't even know what they look like. Mom never mentioned them to us. Not once, not ever.

Koro:
There are things about our own families we don't know about.

Lilith:
I want to find out as much as I can about my uncles so that way we can be prepared if they ever show their faces.

Koro:
You know I'll always lend you a hand if they show their faces.

Lilith's face turns red and she hides it behind the menu. Koro chuckles just as a commotion was heard from inside the café. They look through the window to see Condiment King running amok.

Koro:
Condiment King? What the heck?

Lilith:
We'd better get in there!

Koro:
Right!

The two of them rush into the café to confront the "villain", but not before running into the bathroom to change into their Titan outfits.

Condiment King:
Open your wallets or it's Tabasco in your eyes!

Avocet comes running out of the bathroom with Beast Girl not far behind.

Avocet:
I've never really been a fan of the spicy stuff.

Condiment King:
If Tabasco isn't your thing, how about some Chilli sauce? As you brats can see, I expanded my arsenal. You think you can handle what I have cooking up?

Beast Girl:
Bring it on!

She turns into a bear and charges at Condiment King.

Avocet:
Beast Girl, wait!

Too late, Condiment King fired Chili sauce right in Beast Girl's eyes stopping her in her tracks. She stumbles around, rubbing her eyes and crashing into things, eventually dunking her head in the lobster tank.

Avocet:
You'll regret that, Saucy.

Avocet takes out his Bo Staff and charges at him.

Condiment King:
Why don't you stick around for a bit!

He then shoots honey onto Avocet's feet, stopping him in his tracks.

Avocet:
Hey, honey's not a condiment!

Condiment King:
If you can put honey on toast the same way you would put ketchup on a burger bun, I say it counts.

Avocet fires starbolts from his eyes at the honey to free his feet, which works, before he continues charging at Condiment King. The villain fires BBQ sauce at Avocet, knocking him to the ground. As Condiment King laughs, Beast Girl, still in bear form, comes up from behind him and traps him in a bear hug.

Condiment King:
Have some honey.

Before Condiment King could fire his condiment guns, Avocet gets up and knocks the guns out of his hand. They activate, firing honey at Condiment King, right in his face.

Condiment King:
Ah, my face! My beautiful face!

Avocet:
If you ask me, that honey is a major improvement.

Beast Girl laughs.

Avocet:
Make sure he doesn't leave your grasp until the cops get here, Beast Girl.

Avocet runs up to the new villain and punches his lights out.

Avocet:
(Rubs his knuckles against his suit) Like I said, we need better opponents.


A few minutes later the police arrive to take the Condiment King and the Ice Cream Themed villain away. Avocet and Beast Girl, now in her human form, watch this all unfold from a nearby rooftop.

Avocet:
We did good, Beast Girl. My uniform got a little messy but it's nothing a little laundry detergent won't fix. My place.

Beast Girl:
Lead the way.

The two of them head off for the Grayson Residence so Avocet can wash his suit.


At the West Residence, Kacey was sitting on her bed, listening to the Devil's Advocates on her phone. Murdoc was sitting on the chair across from her, taking a break from his training.

Kacey:
You need to make new music babe.

Murdoc:
I know. I'm just going through a serious bout of writer's block right now and I can't seem to come up with a good idea no matter how hard I try.

Kacey:
Have you asked your bandmates for any advice?

Murdoc:
I have, Kace, and they're just as stumped as I am. And any idea we do come up with has already been done.

Kacey:
I know it's hard to be original these days, with pretty much every idea being done already.

Kacey's face then lights up, having come up with an idea.

Kacey:
Maybe you can make a song about whatever is going on in your life right now. You know, base your new song on the visions you've been having or the new powers you obtained.

Murdoc:
You mean visions of death, torture or my Mom suffering?

Kacey:
….Well isn't that associated with heavy metal?

Murdoc:
Yes, but I don't think anyone would want to listen to that sort of song?

Kacey:
They do. Metal heads think they're meant to be deep. No offence to your music or fans

Murdoc:
None taken, babe. But I guess I am at the end of my rope here.

Kacey:
You're quitting?

Murdoc:
Of course not. I'm going to follow your advice and see if I can make a song based on my life experiences.

Kacey:
They say music is the best way to express one's feelings.

She hands him a notepad and pencil. As Murdoc begins taking notes, Kacey has something else to ask of her boyfriend.

Kacey:
Hey, babe, you think when we're done, you can play 'Nothing Else Matters' for me before I go?

Murdoc:
Sure. Now let's see here.

He and Kacey begin jotting down notes, with a new song slowly but surely being created for him and the rest of Devil's Advocates.

Murdoc:
You know I saw the strangest thing today when I was retrieving my wallet?

Kacey:
Mmm?

Murdoc:
My Dad was talking to my Mom's belly while she slept

Kacey:
But I thought your Dad had a vasectomy.

Murdoc:
I know, but that doesn't stop him from trying.

Kacey:
Why?

Murdoc:
I think he wants to have another baby but regrets getting the vasectomy

Kacey:
He could adopt.

Murdoc:
He could. Or maybe Mom's carrying an embryo inside her.

Kacey:
Could be.

Murdoc:
She thinks three is enough. Besides, us three can be dangerous; a fourth would be overkill.

Kacey:
Oh. Why? Is it gonna be all Devil-Ish or like the Anti-Christ? Or is one of you already the Anti-Christ?

Murdoc:
No, Mother is. We're more like the Anti-Antichrist.

Kacey:
I see. You're right. Three, that's enough.

The door opens; Wally appears.

Wally:
Do you want to have three kids, Kacey? I think it's a bit early. You may be a speedster like me but be patient.

Kacey blushes, embarrassed.

Kacey:
No Dad, that's not what you think!

Wally:
Good. I'm not ready to be a grandparent.

Kacey:
And we haven't been together long.

Wally:
I know. (He points a threatening finger at Murdoc) Don't do anything that would affect her in any way or else.

Murdoc:
I promise.

Wally closes the door as Murdoc and Kacey return to brainstorming.


Grayson Residence; Koro and Lilith arrive. Mar'i, who was feeding Silkie, notices the two.

Mar'i:
What happened to your clothes?

Koro:
Why aren't you out looking for Klarion?

Mar'i:
I figured I'd take a break to take care of Silkie.

Silkie nuzzles Mar'i's leg.

Mar'i:
Aw, I missed you too, my little Bumgorf.

Koro:
You sound just like mom.

Mar'i:
The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

Koro:
Anyway, Lilith and I got into a little bit of a scrap with Condiment King.

Mar'i:
I won't keep you.

Koro and Lilith head to the bathrooms (one upstairs, one downstairs). Mar'i pulls out her phone sees a message from Jon. It reads:
Any luck on Klarion?

Mar'i texts back with:
Haven't seen him yet. Feeding Silkie right now, but I'll go back to searching when I'm done.

Jon:
(Texts back) Alright. Don't be long.

Mar'i puts her phone away and pets Silkie.

Mar'i:
When Koro and Lilith get done cleaning up, I should ask them to assist in the search for Klarion if they feel up to it.

Silkie makes a noise.

Mar'i:
Don't worry, Silkie, we'll be fine. (Louder) Can you trace magic, Lily?

Lilith (from upstairs):
Not well!

Mar'i:
Well we have to find Klarion somehow.

Koro (From the downstairs bathroom):
How do we get a mischievous childish witch attack us?

Lilith (From upstairs):
We could try talking bad about him behind his back.

Koro (From the downstairs bathroom):
How will that work?

Lilith (from the upstairs bathroom):
Murdoc did it to Paine one time; she was mad.

Koro (From the downstairs bathroom):
It could work. Klarion has the voice that's the equivalent to nails being scratched on a chalkboard, and he's a whiny brat who doesn't deserve love from his cat.

Mar'i:
I doubt that will work Koro.


Bludhaven; Dick is in his patrol car. He's keeping an eye out, not only for criminal activity, but supernatural activity as well. Suddenly, he sees what appears to be dolls moving by themselves from out of a toy store.

Dick:
What the?

He follows the dolls as they float up to Klarion, who if floating in mid-air and using them as target practice.

Klarion:
Salutations Nightwing.

Dick gets out of the car and stares up at the Witch Boy.

Dick:
I really hope you plan on paying for those dolls, Klarion!

Klarion:
Just making up for lost time.

Dick:
Why return now?

Klarion:
I don't know if you've heard, but truly wicked things are about to happen in this world. And I don't want to miss a second of the carnage!

Dick:
If by wicked things you mean the possible return of Trigon, I know, I heard!

Klarion:
Then I'm sure you've also heard about how Raven's brothers are getting Murdoc all set to become Trigon's next vessel.

Dick:
I've met them. And I'm aware. What I can't seem to figure out is why you're involved in all of this other than to have front row tickets to the end of the world?

Klarion:
Just a messenger letting ignorant people know that the show is about to begin.

Dick:
This world can do just fine without your free advertising.

Klarion:
But it's just so much fun. So much fun in fact that I just might include you!

He tosses a fireball right at Dick, but he jumps out of the way in time.

Klarion:
Ball's in your court now, officer, what are you going to do?

Dick puts his hand in his pocket and pulls out his communicator and presses a button, activating the Beacon function. In a matter of moments, Zatanna arrives.

Zatanna:
You rang?

Klarion:
Ugh, you again!

Zatanna:
Yes. And I see I interrupted your little playtime.

Klarion:
I'm more than willing to share my toys with you. Watch!

Klarion snaps his fingers and the dolls come to life and start attacking Zatanna. Dick begins breaking the dolls that crawl over him.

Zatanna:
Eudbus lla sllod!

With that, the dolls lose the lifeforce that Klarion put on them and they fall to the ground, completely lifeless.

Klarion:
Teekl.

Teekl leaps on Dick's face, clawing away.

Dick:
Bad kitty!

He whacks Teekl with his nightstick, getting him off his face. Zatanna gets down on Dick's level and helps him with his wounds.

Zatanna:
Laeh sih stuc

The cuts seal up.

Dick:
Thanks.

Zatanna:
Eransne!

Out of nowhere, vines come out from the floor, and they wrap up Klarion and pull him onto his knees.

Klarion:
Release me!

Zatanna:
Not until you agree to leave this realm and never come back!

Klarion:
And if I don't?

Zatanna:
You can move into the Tower of Fate.

Dick:
You should probably send him there regardless. Make sure he can't cause anyone any more harm.

Zatanna:
Not a bad idea.

Klarion:
You really think that tower can contain me?

Zatanna:
Yes. And I'll be keeping a close eye on you at all times to make sure you never get the chance to escape. (To Dick) Well, that's that Officer.

Dick:
Please, call me Dick. And thank you for your help, Zatanna.

Zatanna:
Please, call me Zee.

Dick:
Sounds good.

Zatanna:
Well, I'd better take this one to the Tower of Fate while I still can. Tell Kori and the kids I said hi.

Dick:
Will do.

Klarion:
You think the Tower of Fate can contain me?!

Zatanna:
Ti Piz.

Klarion's mouth zips shut. Zatanna and Klarion disappear. Dick leaves the store and returns to his patrol car.


The Grayson Residence; Mar'i and Lilith are drinking tea while waiting for Koro to be finished; Lilith is wearing a spare robe.

Lilith:
Thanks for letting me borrow one of your bathrobes, Mar'i.

Mar'i:
I wasn't about to have you walk around my house naked.

Lilith:
I could've just turned into an animal. They're naked all the time.

Mar'i:
True.

Lilith:
I wonder what's taking Koro so long?

Suddenly, Koro comes downstairs wearing a towel around his waist. The sound of his footsteps coming down the stairs catching the attention of Lilith and Mar'i. Lilith's face slowly turns red.

Mar'i:
Come on, bro, make yourself decent.

Koro:
I just wanted to ask if you know if Mom did a load of laundry before she left this morning.

Mar'i:
I think she left a laundry basket full of clean clothes in the laundry room.

Koro:
Thanks.

He leaves to get some clothes on before returning to the living room wearing some jeans and a hoodie.

Koro:
So, what are we going to do about this Klarion situation.

Suddenly, Mar'i gets a call on her cell phone from her father and she answers it.

Mar'i:
Hello? Wait, you caught him? Well, that's great. Okay dad, I'll see you when you get home. Love you.

She hangs up with her father and turns to face Lilith and Koro.

Mar'i:
Great news! We don't have to worry about Klarion because Zatanna took care of him.

Koro:
Really?

Mar'i:
Yeah. That psychopath is rotting away in the Tower of Fate as we speak.

She gets a message from Jon, reading:
The search has been called off; Klarion's in custody.

Mar'i texts back with:
I heard. Thanks.

Lilith:
I guess we can relax.

She picks up the remote and turns on the TV.

Lilith:
Oooooohhh, Space Trek 2122! Koro, come and watch with me!

Koro:
Alright.

He sits down next to Lilith.

Mar'i:
(Getting up) I'll leave you two alone. Just don't have too much fun. The last thing I'm sure dad wants to see when he gets home is you two...doing things.

Koro:
Relax, we're not going to do anything.

Mar'i goes upstairs, leaving Koro and Lilith alone.

Koro:
How's Murdoc?

Lilith:
After I got out of the shower I got a text from him saying that he's starting to get his powers under control, and Kacey inspired him to make a song based on everything that's going on in his life.

Koro:
That's great. Maybe this is the beginning of the end of his troubles.

Lilith:
I don't know, Koro. I want to believe that everything is going to be okay from here on out, but I know things really can't be that cut and dry. I mean, what about my uncles? And there's always the chance of Klarion escaping the Tower of Fate.

Koro:
I'm pretty sure Doctor Fate has foreseen the outcome.


Tower of Fate; Doctor Fate was talking to John Constantine and Etrigan.

Doctor Fate:
I cannot foresee the outcome of this.

John Constantine:
Ha. Good one Doc.

Doctor Fate:
Johnathan, you know I don't joke.

John Constantine:
No, of course you don't.

Zatanna arrives with the bound Klarion.

Zatanna:
We've found ourselves a new, permanent resident here at the Tower.

Klarion seethes at the presence of Fate.

John Constantine:
Hello Klarion. You've been a bad boy. Why don't you go and sit on the naughty step while you think about what you've done?

Doctor Fate:
John! (To Zatanna) Excellent work, Zatanna. I'll make sure this one doesn't get away.

Klarion:
You won't be able to hold me for long! I'll get out! And when I do, you'll both be very sorry!

Teekl hisses in agreement.

Doctor Fate:
Your threats mean nothing to me, young Witch Boy.

Zatanna levitates Klarion and Teekl towards Doctor Fate, and they enter the tower.

Klarion:
Do I at least get a roomie?

Doctor Fate:
Someone like you doesn't deserve contact with anything or anyone.

Zatanna:
You've been Doctor Fate for a short time and you're already disciplined. Nabu chose wisely.

Doctor Fate:
What can I say? I'm a fast learner.

Zatanna:
Still ironic that a male stripper became the next Fate.

John Constantine:
What should I do with the cat? Leave him to the dogs?!

Klarion:
NO! Teekl hates dogs!

John Constantine:
Perfect.

Klarion:
NOOOOO!

Zatanna:
John, no. Leave the cat to Etrigan.

Etrigan:
I shall imprison him in the deepest depths of the Underworld.

Zatanna yanks Teekl off Klarion's person and hands him to Etrigan.

Etrigan:
I shall return

He disappeared in a ball of fire.

John Constantine:
Laters.

He vanishes. Zatanna and Doctor Fate, and Klarion, descend into the towers' dungeon. They stop in front of a cell with a solid wall; Doctor Fate touches the wall and it parts; Zatanna then levitates Klarion and Teekl into the cell and removes the vines; Klarion tries to throw a fireball at them but nothing materializes.

Klarion:
What's going on?

Doctor Fate:
As long as you're in here, your powers won't work.

Zatanna:
Good luck trying to hatch an escape plan.

They close the wall as Klarion gives them a hateful glare.

Zatanna:
You try escaping Klarion.

Klarion smiled.

Klarion:
Oh won't. Just you wait.

Doctor Fate and Zatanna walk out.

Zatanna:
Still nothing?

Doctor Fate:
No. I can't see the future. It's like something is blocking my vision.

Zatanna:
Trigon's sons?

Doctor Fate:
Possibly.

Zatanna:
For now, we should remain vigilant.

Suddenly, Etrigan appears out of nowhere and tackles Fate and Zatanna just as an explosion goes off.

Doctor Fate:
Etrigan?

Etrigan:
Take cover!

Then from the ground, Wrath had appeared with an army of screaming demons.

Zatanna:
They wasted no time.

Wrath:
I believe you have something that belongs to us? Or rather, someone.

Zatanna:
You're not getting to him.

Wrath:
Watch me!

He flings fireballs at Zatanna.

Zatanna:
Hsiugnitxe eht semalf.

The fireballs fizzle out. Wrath growls in annoyance before turning towards his screaming demons.

Wrath:
Destroy them!

The demons charge, but Zatanna, Doctor Fate, John Constantine and Etrigan are on the offensive.

Zatanna:
Yfirtep.

And with that, she turns some of the demons into stone statues. Wrath applauded.

Wrath:
Nice job. I guess if you've defeated my army, that means….You have my brothers to deal with.

Doctor Fate:
Where are they?

Suddenly, John began to feel an agonising pain in his chest. He screamed in pain as he unbuttoned his shirt to reveal a face coming from his chest.

Lust:
Hello Constantine.

Envy:
You need to lay off the whiskey.

John Constantine:
Wait, do you feel intoxicated?

Etrigan punched John in the chest, just as the faces disappeared.

Etrigan:
Did I get them?

John Constantine:
Yup, you broke a couple of ribs mate.

Suddenly, Lust appeared on John's chest again.

Zatanna:
Evael sih ydob.

Suddenly, a thick cloud of fog comes out from Constantine's mouth and from that fog comes Envy and Lust.

Envy:
Aw, and we were just starting to have fun.

Lust:
(Looks over at Zatanna) Maybe if we play our cards right, brother, we can be inside her body next.

Zatanna:
I'd decline that offer.

Envy:
Do you ever think with your head instead of your 'head', brother?

Lust:
Hardly ever, especially with this bewitching babe.

Zatanna:
Piz sih spil.

Lust's mouth suddenly disappears and he becomes annoyed rather than horrified.

Envy:
I've had enough fun. Give us Klarion and we'll be on our way.

John Constantine:
Why?

Wrath:
Isn't it obvious? His powers make him an absolute asset to our side. Why wouldn't we want him?

John Constantine:
Because he's a prick.

Wrath:
That may be, but a 'prick' with phenomenal powers is still someone worth having on our side.

Etrigan:
You wanna try getting into this tower?

Wrath:
Watch me.

Wrath storms at the Tower of Fate; just as he is about to cross the threshold, an invisible barrier knocks him back.

Doctor Fate:
It'll take more than just storming the Tower of Fate if you want to break inside.

Envy bends down to help Wrath up, but Wrath pushes him away and gets up.

Wrath:
Let's leave!

Lust, still without a mouth, mumbles something.

Wrath:
But not before you return my brother's mouth.

Zatanna:
Pizun sih htuom.

Lust's mouth reappears on his face, and he glares at Zatanna, Fate, Etrigan, and Constantine.

Wrath:
We'll be back. We're going to break into that tower one way or another, and when we do, expect no mercy.

The three brothers vanish.

Doctor Fate:
I don't know what those three demons have planned. But what I do know that the next time they show their faces around here, war will break out.

John Constantine:
Please tell me you're starting to see the outcome

Doctor Fate:
It's been dark. For a long time

John Constantine:
Well, they probably turned off the lights at some point

Doctor Fate:
I will never get your sarcasm.

Constantine:
It's a coping mechanism. You should try it more often.

Doctor Fate:
Zatanna, Etrigan, check on the prisoner while I see if I can salvage anything.

Zatanna:
Sure thing.

Zatanna and Etrigan run inside to check on Klarion.

John Constantine:
And…

Doctor Fate:
You stay right here so you can keep an eye out for anything….

Then Fate's eyes widened. What he saw was horrifying: He was seeing the brothers invading Raven's body, blood coming from the Grayson residence, Murdoc being tempted by Lust, Raven having her birthmarks show up all over her body, Jon having Kryptonite grow on his skin, the Logan kids fighting Murdoc, Murdoc killing Doctor Fate and Murdoc ruling Earth with his uncles and Grandfather by his side. Doctor Fate collapsed

Constantine:
Doctor Fate? What happened?

Doctor Fate:
Raven. We must go.

Zatanna:
Why, what's going to happen?

Doctor Fate:
I'll explain when we get there! We have no time to lose!


West Residence: the same time. Murdoc had finished performing for Kacey and was getting ready to leave.

Kacey:
Your new song is coming along nicely, babe.

Murdoc:
Yeah.

Kacey:
Will you be staying for dinner?

Murdoc:
Nahum, I gotta get home. Besides, you, Bart and Wally won't leave any for me.

Kacey:
(Chuckles) True. But before you leave, I forgot to ask, how was training earlier today after we left?

Murdoc:
Went better after a rough start. I'm actually starting to get the hang of them.

Kacey:
Maybe the end of your new song can allude to the fact that things are looking up for you.

Murdoc:
Not a bad idea.

Kacey:
Also, thanks for the performance. It was... beautiful.

Murdoc smiles; he and Kacey share a goodbye kiss and he enters the living room, using the zeta tube to get home.

Murdoc:
Catch you later, Kace.

Kacey:
Later, baby.


Murdoc teleports to his home; where he sees his parents in the company of Doctor Fate, Zatanna and John Constantine.

Murdoc:
What's going on here?

Doctor Fate:
We're glad you're here, Murdoc. Please, have a seat. We have many things we'd like to discuss with you.

Murdoc sits down, hiding the fact that he's in the presence of two of his favourite Justice League members.

Murdoc:
So, what did you want to talk about?

Doctor Fate:
About your uncles, Murdoc.

Murdoc:
Ah yeah.

He looks at Zatanna and gives a charming smile.

Zatanna:
This is serious, Murdoc, your life, the lives of your friends and family, and the whole world are at stake here.

Murdoc puts on a serious face.

Zatanna:
We captured Klarion, and then your uncles appeared on John's body.

John Constantine:
And apparently, one part of Fate's vision is your uncles appearing on your mom's body.

Raven:
That actually happened.

Murdoc:
What else did you see?

Doctor Fate:
I saw you engaging your siblings in battle. Your friend, the son of Superman, growing Kyrptonite on his skin and becoming weaker. One of your uncles tempting you. Blood coming from the house of Starfire and Nightwing. Me dying by your hand. And perhaps worst of all, you, your uncles, and Trigon ruling this world.

Murdoc begins feeling sick to his stomach.

Murdoc:
Please tell me there's a way to prevent all of this.

Fate, Zatanna and Constantine look doubtful at him; Murdoc could tell that their solution would not be pleasant.

Murdoc:
Please tell me this solution doesn't involve killing me.

Changeling:
What the hell?! You are not killing my son! Sure he has a tendency to snap, sure he can get ahead of himself, but that's no reason to take his life!

Doctor Fate:
It's the only way we can prevent any of these events from transpiring.

John Constantine:
Or perhaps, there's another way. His demon powers

Raven:
What about them?

John Constantine:
We can get rid of them

Changeling:
What?!

John Constantine:
You see, years ago, before you caused the end of the world, Mrs Logan. (Raven groaned) I found a way to exorcise the demon powers out of half, quarter demons.

Murdoc:
So I will no longer be able to summon supernatural animals, transform parts of my body into animal parts, teleport, use magic or any of that?

John Constantine:
Oh, you can still turn into animals. Your demon powers will just be gone. You'll be more like your Dad

Murdoc:
But I've only just gotten better at controlling my powers!

John Constantine:
Tough crap, lad. It's the only way to save the world.

Doctor Fate:
Murdoc, we have no other alternative. We're sorry.

Murdoc looks at them, before creating a portal, going through it, and disappearing through it, along with the portal.

Raven:
MURDOC!

End of 'Steps into Darkness'


Cast

Kari Wahlgren: Nightstar/Mar'i Grayson

Taylor Grey: Avocet/Koro Grayson

Stuart Allan: Robin/Damian Wayne

Cameron Monaghan: Superboy/Jon Kent

Ashley Eckstein: Emerald Witch/Paine Logan

Jesse McCartney: Crow/Murdoc Logan

Debi Derryberry: Beast Girl/Lilith Logan

Lacey Chabert: Black Arrow/Lian Harper

Jessie Flower: Kid Flash/Kacey West

Damon Wayans Jr: Hornet/Jaden Stone

Sean Chiplock: Alloroc Markov

Jack De Sana: Mor'gann Kent

Janet Varney: Crush

Greg Cipes: Changeling/Garfield Logan, Lust

Scott Menville: Nightwing/Dick Grayson, Envy

Tara Strong: Raven/Rachel Logan