I own Nothing.
Whoo...this was a big one. I lost my files like 3 times writing this. The next arc will be a special one, it's from the team-up poll. It's name...The Tower of Babel.
Look forward to it as the complete arc will be posted on Chistmas day for all my readers.(That's Christmas day AUSTRALIA TIME so some of you may see it Christmas eve)
As always, Please Review
Radocko entered the underground temple that the Resistances were using, after speaking to Despero and being heard he felt better, Radocko had taken some time for himself and had returned at Desperos request, he did not want to but there could be no suspicion that Despero was aware do the resistance plans. When he entered, he noted that all its members had weapons in their hands and they were gathering ammo packs. He knew this only meant one thing. The attack he had warned Despero about was ready to start. Radocko spotted Katma with Kilowog and he walked over to her.
"Hi Kat, sorry I was gone so long. After what happened before I needed some time to clear my head," he said casually.
Katma turned and looked at him confused "You were gone?" she asked.
Radocko frowned "Yes, I've been gone for 2hrs. Did you not notice?"
"I've been a little busy," she defended.
"Anyway, looks like we're getting ready to go. I'll gather the troops and let them know the plan and then we can head out,"
"No need Poozer," Kilowog stated "Already took care of that and we're headed out in 2 minutes,"
"What but I thought the bomb would take 3hrs to make," Radocko urged.
"What can I say, I work quick," Kilowog smiled "Anyway no time like the present,"
"Kat, had I not returned would you have started this operation without me?" Radocko asked seriously.
"Yes, it's too important and I doubt one more Kalanorian would have turned the tide or made a difference,"
"I see, if that is how you feel then I know I made the right choice," Radocko said and turned away. He headed over to another member of the resistance and they handed him a gun. It only took him a minute to make sure that the weapon was up to standard and he picked up a spare ammo pack and then they were off.
The resistance and the justice league set off down the tunnels and through the catacombs. Kilowog had the bomb in a protective bubble. After travelling and arriving at the sewers, the group split up into three groups. Kilowog, J'onn and Flash headed off towards the route that would lead them under the temple, Alucard headed out of the sewer opting to make the rest of his journey by air and out of sight from Despero's men and Katma, John, Hawkgirl and the rest of the resistance headed through the sewers towards the armoury.
Radocko u stayed at the back since he didn't feel like he would be needed and it would be easier to slip away once from the back once the larger group arrived at the armoury. The Resistance travelled through the sewers using the underground pathways to get as close as they could get to the Armory before they were forced back to the surface. Once they emerged, they were only a few blocks from the armoury.
They continued their way, keeping to the back alleys and avoiding Desperos guard patrols. Soon they came across a large building. Peering around the corner John, Katma and Shifflett eyed the two gaurs out front.
"There's only two of them, we can take them," John said.
"Maybe, but it would be better to have the element of surprise," Katma stated "Perhaps we can lure them away somehow,"
"But it would have to be in a way that didn't alert anyone else," Shifflet whispered.
"Let's regroup for now," Katma ordered and the three backed off to an alleyway out of earshot of the guards where the rest of the Resistance and Hawkgirl were hiding.
"So, are we going in?" Hawkgirl asked when the three were back.
"Two guards are blocking our way," John stated.
"I'll distract them, lure them away," Radocko offered "I'm fast and I know the city well,"
"Or I could just get the drop on them, literally," Hawkgirl countered and gestured to her wings.
"Agreed, make sure they won't wake up for a while," Katma ordered.
Hawkgirl nodded and spread her wings and took off into the air.
"I could have led them away," Radocko u muttered "Why does she ignore me,"
"Don't be like that lad, she doesn't want you getting hurt," Shifflet said.
"She's barely looked at me since he," Radocko u glared at John "showed up nor has she listened to anything any of us have to say,"
"Well, she is under a lot of stress and we do not have the same powers off-worlders have," Sifflet explained.
"We managed just fine until they came along,"
"We were barely getting anywhere and too many of us were dying or being captured. I for one am grateful to the Off-worlders for their help. Besides, they'll be gone sooner than you think. Then you can have Katma all to yourself again," Sifflet assured and patted Radocko u on his shoulder and headed off with the rest of the group.
"No truer words have been spoken," Radocko u agreed.
The Resistance moved and when they returned to the Armoury, Hawkgirl was standing at the front with two unconscious bodies lying at her feet; her mace crackled with energy. She looked and smiled.
"That should keep them quiet for a while," She stated.
The resistance came over and Katma blew the door down with her ring and everyone ran inside. However, instead of finding a stash of weaponry, ships, or anything to do with war the armoury was empty.
"What's going on, where is everything?" Sifflet asked.
"it's a trap everyone out," Katma warned.
However, her warning came too late as an explosion from beneath the floor occurred and below the base of the armoury way. The Floor crumbled and the resistance fell as gravity took over. Hawkgirl grabbed onto John's hand to catch him and Katmas' own ring allowed her to fly so she would not fall either.
Those that were not caught in the explosion crashed into the sewers below, they were not hurt badly but the Kalanorians who were unlucky enough to be caught were badly burned and injured. They would need treatment right away.
Shifflet was not part of those who were hurt and Radocko u was near the entrance of the armoury and on a small part of the ground that had not been destroyed.
"Is everyone alright," Katma yelled.
"No, we're not. We've got several wounded and a few dead," Sifflet called out.
Suddenly an alarm sounded that could be heard throughout the city and Katama swore. She knew they'd meant to trigger it but not like this, if Despero's men came here and found the Kalanorians they would kill them.
"Well, we wanted a distraction," Hawkgirl commented.
"But not like this. Sifflet lead those you can back into the tunnels, we'll stay here and finish the job," Katma ordered.
Shifflet nodded and the resistance helped those injured to their feet. They were about to head down one of the four tunnel exits. However, he stilled in his path as the sound of a small beeping filled his ears and a small blinking red light could be seen in the darkness.
"Wait that's a…A proximity mine!" a Kalanorian warned.
"What?" Katma gasped. She aimed her ring and scanned the area with it, her green light penetrating and allowing her to see through the rock and stone and further down the tunnel. There were mines at equidistant intervals. They were far enough from each other but if one went off it would set a chain reaction.
Sifflet looked down the tunnel and then ran to another on the opposite side of the area they were trapped in. There were mines planted there as well, he and the others would have missed them except for the small blinking red light and the beeping sound.
"They're on all the exits," Shifflet cried out "if we go near them we'll bring the whole sewer system down on top of us,"
"Katma," Radocko u shouted.
Katma turned and saw that Radocko was looking down the street, she could make out the sound of heavy marching and machines running. Likely more tanks like the ones that had corned them before. The Area quickly filled with Desperos' men, Katma looked down at those that had fallen into the sewers below the armoury and then at John and Hawkgirl. She needed to make a choice, either get caught and likely killed by Desperos' men or flee to fight another day.
"Kat, help me," Radocko u called out as Desperos' men grabbed him and pulled his hands behind his back
"We're leaving," she announced and fired an energy blast at the roof of the armoury. Once it was clear she flew upwards.
Radocko u watched in disappointment as Katma fled. Down in the mine-trapped sewers, the rest of the resistance watched their leader abandon them to their fate. Hawkgirl seemed to hesitate but with a de-powered John, she knew she had to leave. After all, Hawkgirl owed no loyalty to the Kalanorians. as Hawkgirl and Katma exited above through the roof they were met with Desperos' air force and they opened fire. White beams shot at Katma and Hawkgirl, Katma reflexively put up a shield only to have it completely annihilated and to be shot from three different angles.
"AGAHHHHH" Katma screamed.
"KAT!" John cried out as he watched Katma fall, only to be caught by one of Desperos' men. Her ring didn't fly off her finger so John knew she was alive.
Suddenly Hawkgirl screamed as well. John looked up just in time to see a Kalanorian fire at her from behind. She fell and they were caught by another Kalanorian. John looked at them in fear as the Kalanorian used the side of his weapon to hit him in the side of the head. The pain was the last thing John felt as he blacked out.
In the air above Desperos' temple,
Alucard hovered high above Desperos' temple. The operation had started twenty minutes ago. Kilowog had finished the Carbon bomb and headed out with J'onn and Flash to break into the Py'tars Chamber and take out the source of Despro's power. Katma, John and Hawkgirl headed to the Armory with the rest of the Resistance to begin the raid. Katma had insisted that she be with the rebels to make the attack seem more real since her cover as a temple priestess had been blown. John had gone with her, despite him still being unable to use his power ring as he wanted to ensure her safety and Hawkgirl had joined them to keep an eye on John.
Meanwhile, Alucard waited silently in the night watching the streets below. The raid had already begun as he'd heard the alarms go off in the city and he was watching several hundred guards rush out of the temple. Alucard waited patiently until they were very close to the Armory.
When he was satisfied that Despero forces were close enough to the Armory, yet also able to see and hear the destruction that he was about to cause. Alucard swooped down passing by the temple's base and outstretched his hand.
"Hellfire," he commanded. Dark-centred fireball formed in his hand as he unleashed his spell. The flames slammed into the side of the temple causing a loud boom that echoed through the city. Alucard flew around the temple shooting off more balls of dark fire in all directions. From anyone witnessing this from the ground. It looked like fireballs were being thrown from all angles.
Alucard glanced down, he could see several Kalanorians were panicking and a few were pointing and watching in awe. He looked in the direction of the armoury. None of the guards was returning.
Alucard gritted his teeth; he realised both arms were towards the sky and using some more magic he commanded the flames to rise and surround the base of the temple. The flames immediately responded to his will and the Dark centred flames engulfed the whole structure, minus the very top. This bonfire would be seen for miles, even outside the city, it would be a beacon for those in the Badlands.
Alucard could hear the screams and some banging that came from inside the temple, there would likely be a panicking frenzy happing in the temple and anyone inside would be in a hurry to escape. There was no chance that anyone would not see it. Yet Alucard couldn't help but note something was wrong, the temple was burning, but there were no signs of Despero or his forces that had headed off to the Armory were returning.
"Where are they?" Alucard hissed "why aren't they coming back?"
"You halt in the name of Despero," a voice called out.
Alucard turned and spotted several of Desperos men flying towards him, when they arrived Alucard had a good 20 of them surrounding him and all their weapons were pointed directly at him. One of the Kalanorians, the leader approached him.
"I bear a message from Lord Despero for you," he announced.
"Oh? Then he can give it to me personally," Alucard responded.
"That is why we are here," the leader responded and pulled out a small metallic ball and tossed it into the air. The ball glowed for a moment, hovering and then an Image of Despero appeared. Alucard raised an eyebrow and waved his hand through Despero, it was just an illusion, a projection.
"Greetings, do not bother. I am merely speaking to you from a different location and am not physically here," Despero said in response to Alucard waving his hand through the image.
"Clearly," Alucard responded and glanced over at the Kalanorians that had surrounded him "this is an extreme way to speak with me,"
"Well, you are burning down my temple," Despero pointed out "now that we have pleasantries out of the way. I am here to accept your surrender to my men,"
"And what makes you think I will be surrendering?" Alucard asked curiously.
"If you care at all for the lives of the resistance, you will. Though if you choose not to that is fine with me as both they and you will die,"
"Do you not think it should be the other way round?" Alucard asked "I am burning your temple with you inside it after all,"
"That might be the case…if I was still inside the temple," Despero said confidently.
Alucard narrowed his eyes. Despero wasn't in the temple?
"I see you are confused, allow me to elaborate in a way your feeble brain can understand. You have a traitor amongst your ranks. This traitor came to me and informed me of the resistances plan, the attack on the armoury has already failed, 2 of your Green Lanterns are already my captives, the temple is empty save for those worshipers and your allies who are now trapped inside and the remains of the resistance at the Armory are surrounded and awaiting execution,"
"If you wish to burn the temple, then by all means. Please continue to do so as I will simply put the populace to work in rebuilding it once it is nothing but ash," Despero claimed "it's too bad that my guards barracked the doors and seal off all exits…even those that lead to the sewers,"
Alucard's eyes winded and his head snapped back to look at the temple. If Despero wasn't in there and neither were his guards then the panicked screams he'd heard and banging coming from the temple was…
"It appears you've realised the folly of your actions," Despero said "you are burning innocent Kalanorians and your friends who were supposed to infiltrate it alive. How long before your flames claim their lives I wonder,"
Alucard glared back at Despero. He knew he was going to have to put the flames out. He didn't want to be responsible for the deaths of many innocent lives and that of Kilowog, Flash and J'onn.
"Now then I will make you an offer. Surrender to these men or I give the order to execute not only the resistance members but also you're the three off-worlders that have been taken, prisoner,"
Alucard looked past the image of Despero at the leader who had been quiet this whole time.
"Are you alright with this, your leader is willing to let people die and you still choose to follow him?" Alucard asked and turned to address the rest of the guards "are all of you truly devoted to a killer?"
"If lord Despero deems that his worshipers in the temple lives are forfeit then they are. It is an honour to have Despero recognise that their lives have such worth that they may be given in Despero's name," the leader responded "Despero is life, Despero is all things,"
Alucard didn't respond, he looked at the guards who all seemed to agree with this statement. He then turned back to look at the temple that was still burning. He raised his hand and clenched his fist. The flames extinguished immediately and Alucard turned back to the guards. He let out a sigh and raised his hands in surrender.
"Good choice," the image of Despero said "take him to the armoury and put him with the rest of the resistance,"
"As you command lord Despero," the leader said.
Despero smiled and his image vanished.
"Follow us, if you resist you will not hesitate to shoot you," the leader warned.
Alucard nodded and complied. He followed the leader while being surrounded by the other guards. He let them lead him to the warehouse where more guards were surrounding a pit and all watching it intently.
"Get in there with the others," the leader ordered.
Alucard floated downwards and landed amongst the other trapped Kalanorians, a few of the resistance members looked towards him but otherwise didn't react too much other than looking up at the guards. Alucard looked around taking note of all the faces of the resistance and he spotted Radocko off in the corner. He couldn't help but wince a bit when his eyes fell on those injured, he could smell their blood and it was pungent in the small space. While the resistance had tried to help those injured many would need more extensive treatment.
Alucard ignored his hunger welling up inside him, it was always hard to keep it at bay when the smell of blood from wounds was around. He didn't even know if blood from other races like the Kalanorians would have the same effect as human blood.
He turned his thoughts to what Despero had said about there being a traitor in the resistance, as Alucard's eyes continued to survey the resistance he wondered which one was the traitor. Shifflet made his way over to him.
"Your back, did the others take out the Py'tar?" he asked hopefully while keeping his voice down so the guards wouldn't hear.
Alucard shook his head "No, Despero still holds power and has taken Katma and Green Lantern hostage…he threatened to kill them if I did not surrender," he answered. Shifflet let out a sigh of defeat, the older Kalanorians had been holding onto hope that Kilowogs team had taken out the Py'tar and in doing so defeated Despero as was their plan. "What happened here?" Alucard asked.
Shifflet explained everything that happened, from their arrival and the armoury being empty and trapped, how the floor had been rigged to collapse and all the tunnels were rigged with proximity mines. He pointed them out to Alucard and the vampire had no trouble spotting them in the dark. Sifflet also told Alucard how Katma, Hawkgirl and John had tried to flee only to be shot down and captured. Desperos men had surrounded the pit. Alucard took in all the information, it certainly seemed that someone had indeed tipped Despero off to their plan, it also confirmed that out of the three green lanterns, Kilowog was still at large.
Alucard informed Shifflet what happened with him and his exchange with Despero. Shifflet was shocked and refused to believe that there would be a traitor among the resistance. However given how Desperos men had easily captured the resistance, Katma, John, Hawkgirl and even knew that Alucard would be assaulting the temple from the proved it.
"So we are doomed, after all, our efforts were for naught," Shifflet said sadly.
"There may be hope yet…Kilowog may still be successful," Alucard suggested.
"How so? I thought he was trapped in the burning temple," Sifflet asked.
"I put the flames out when I surrendered. It could be that Despero may think Kilowog, J'onn and Flash to be already dead…if that is the case then there is a chance that they may yet stop him," Alucard said and he glanced over up at the guards "in the meantime I suggest we figure out who the traitor is and deal with them,"
Suddenly movement from above and Alucard looked up at the guards, one of them moved away from the edge, and Alucard focused his hearing and was able to hear what was being said. The guard was speaking with Despero confirming that Alucard was with the resistance and gave new orders.
Orders that Alucard did not like.
Alucard turned back to Shifflet "Shifflet, they are about to execute us. I can stop them but I need to know…is there any reason I should spare their lives?" Alucard asked.
"We have been trying not to kill our own in the struggle against Despero," Shifflet answered.
"I see…then I will hold back as much as I can," Alucard said, he turned back to look up at the guards and did nothing until the moment the guard who had left returned.
He opened his mouth to say something, now sound came out as Alucard mentally commanded his blade, it flew from it sheathe as if it had a mind of its own and straight up and under the Kalanorians chin. Missing by inches. The guard stumbled in shock and before the commander could do anything, Alucard appeared in front of him in a flash of red. Alucard
The commander was blown back and rolled on the ground. The other soldiers watched in shock and horror.
"O…OPEN FIRE!" the commander ordered, but once more Alucard vanished in a flash of red. The Commander picked up his weapon and pointed it at where Alucard was supposed to be. But it was too late Alucard was already In front of him. A quick blow to the back of the head and the leader fell and Alucard glowed red before vanishing from sight just as the other guards opened fire.
Alucard zigzagged from one Kalanorian to the next, knocking each one with a flurry of blows. Some soldiers were holding off on firing, trying to track the red blur but Alucard was moving too fast for the eye to see. From above the air force watched as it looked like a blur of red was bypassing the soldiers and one by one they fell. The Arial forces opened fire but Alucard was too quick, each shot missed as the guards could not keep track of where he was. Alucard made short work of those on the ground and when the last soldier fell he turned his attention to those in the sky.
Suddenly Alucard appeared in the centre of the with one swing of his hand his sword flew out of its sheath and severed the weapons in half rendering them useless as they fell below into the pit where the resistance stepped back to avoid the falling parts of the served weapons and looked up in surprise. The sword hovered beside him, blade pointing downward.
Alucard hovered in the centre and spoke in a soft yet dark voice. "I would prefer not to kill any of you…however if you do not surrender I fear I will have no choice as I do not have anyway not dealing with flying enemies that would guarantee your survival,"
Despero air forces glanced at each other and immediately backed off and fled down towards the ground. Alucard watched them and the moment they were near their fallen comrades they grabbed their weapons and pointed them directly up at Alucard. A few took off into the air again and their weapons charged up.
"So be it," Alucard said with regret. He lunged forward with his blade at his side. Closing the distance between himself and the Kalanorian guards on the ground. Just as they raised their weapons a loud booming sound echoed through the streets. Alucard snapped his head in the direction he heard it from and looked towards Desperos temple.
A Large Tree had burst through the roof and Greenery was flooding out of it, vines spread out over the walls and fresh greenery grew, once it touched the earth, bushes and grass started to spread through the city, people screamed and cried out as the storage phenomenon spread like wildfire across the landscape. Alucard watched as it towards him and Desperos men, afraid and confused at this new phenomenon fled. Alucard let them go, he was too busy focusing on what was happening and down Desperos men. Roots hung down into the pit and the members of the Resistance started to climb up them and out of the pit. Alucard sheathed his blade and floated down to the pit to assist and carry the injured and those unable to make the climb.
Shifflet was starting to usher people up but when Radocko touched the root, it lashed out at him. Acting on Instinct the younger Kalanorian backed away and screamed in pain as small ends of root burst through his skin, he panicked and tried to rip them out but they kept growing, and his skin changed from dark purple to an oak brown and various vines and branches began to sport, sheer horror and fear filled Radocko face as his legs, arms and body transformed and in just a few seconds the process was complete.
Neither Alucard, Shifflet or anyone in the resistance could believe his eyes, Radocko had turned into a tree.
Alucard stared at the former Kalanorian, no longer hearing a heartbeat or even giving off the smell of blood or any scent that would indicate he was a living creature. He floated back up and looked down the street to see other trees standing in the open before turning around and setting his gaze past the hole. Watching as the greenery continues to spread through the city and spreading to the horizon.
In the Sewers,
Kilowog, Flash and J'onn flew through the swears, Kilowog was using his ring to carry the Carbon bomb in a contained green bubble so it would be protected and would not be set off prematurely. They arrived at a grate and J'onn ripped it open and headed up through a passageway that twisted and turned and finally reached the underside of a manhole. Kilowog was about to open it with his ring but the J'onn stopped him.
"Wait, I'll make sure it's safe," J'onn said and phased through the manhole.
"That's a really handy power," Kilowog commented.
"You have no idea," Flash agreed. Suddenly the dull and distant sound of an explosion was heard and the passage shook, small bits of dirt and sand fell off the wall.
"What was that?" Kilowog asked.
Flash shrugged and looked up as a second explosion and the shaking continued. A Moment later the Martian returned. "There is mass panic in the temple, we should not be noticed,"
Kilowog blasted open the Manhole and flew threw it. J'onn and Flash followed. They emerged in an out-of-the-way back room hidden behind a curtain. The room was empty save for a few supplies in baskets. Flash zipped over to the curtain and peeked out. In the next room he saw Kalanorian in a panicked frenzy, they were flooding in a single direction and tripping over offerings, shoving each other out of the way, and those that were shoved to the ground struggled to get back up. Some curled up in a ball, protecting their heads to reduce the damage from being trampled.
"What is going out here?" Flash asked as the temple once again shook. The sound of the explosion was now more prominent as it was no longer muffled by the underground passage.
"Come on," Kilowog urged and he flew out of the room.
Thankfully Kilowog and J'onn could fly so the mass panic didn't hinder them at all and flashed zigzagged throughout the crowd at high speed. As they made their way through, the group saw what the source of the panic was. Not only was Alucard attacking from outside but the doors leading out of the temple were sealed and to make matters worse after a few minutes of bombardment from outside the whole temple became engulfed in flames.
This sent the Kalanorians into an even more panicked frenzy as black flames spread up the temple and it could be seen from the windows.
"Al was not supposed to set the whole temple on fire," Flash shouted "especially not while we're inside,"
"Just Keep moving," J'onn advised.
The team picked up the pace and flew faster, and they finally came across the big doors that led to the Desperos main sanctum and where the Py'tar was located. The door was guarded by four guards and they raised their weapons seeing the heroes approach. However, Flash increased his speed and rushed them before they could fire their weapons. Once they were through the door flash closed them while Kilowog landed and started to set up the bomb.
"I'm setting the timer for 5minuts," Kilowog announced "Should give us time to get clear,"
"Guys the flames are gone," Flash warned.
"Alright, done. Let's get out of here," Kilowog announces.
Suddenly J'onn felt weak and grabbed his head.
"J'onn, you okay? Is it your proximity to the flame?" Flash asked worriedly.
"No, stop. The Py'tar…It's sentient," J'onn announced.
Flash and Kilowog reeled back in shock.
"IT'S WHAT?!" they both shouted.
"It's trying to make contact," J'onn continued "If I can just reach it," he reached out his hand into the flame and the moment he touched it, J'onn suddenly lost feeling in his leg and fell into the Py'tar.
"J'ONN!" Flash cried out.
However, before either he or Kilowog could do anything, the doors burst open and the guards that Flash had knocked down before charged in. Kilowog put up a shield just in time to block a few of the guard's weapon blasts; but like before the guard's power ripped through the shield. The guards weren't alone, no the door had been opened the Kalanorians who had been sealed in, flooded into the Py'tars chamber. With so many people it would be impossible for Flash to take the guards out as there was no room for him to move, additionally, if Kilowogs moved or lowered his shield the guards could hit the bomb and then it would be all over.
Just as Kilowogs shield was about to be torn to shreds, a fiery being rose out of the blue fire. J'onn floated above in the centre of the room, attracting all attention to him. His Martian form was covered in blue fire that was not harming him physically but it gave him a terrifying yet divine appearance.
"J'onn, you, okay?" Flash asked wearily.
"Yes," a voice mixed with J'onn's answered and looked back a the now brightly burning blue flame "everything is alright now,"
He then turned to look over the crowd.
"My children hear and heed my words. I am Py'tar," The Py'tar declared through J'onn. The martin's voice was a mix of his own and a lighter more divine tone. "Despero is nothing but a deliver and has lied to you all, I am not a weapon to be used nor am I a divine being who desired subjection of those on this planet. Kalanorian was once a beautiful paradise and it can be again…but only if thou rejects Despero,"
"Those who reject him will know true paradise without end. I will not deny you paradise if you keep him in your hearts, but you will become a part of that paradise yourselves," J'onn added "the choice is yours,"
Flash and Kilowog looked back at the crowd as the Kalanorians bowed before J'onn. Lowering their heads. A few guards threw down their weapons while others hesitated. The bright light emitted from J'onns eyes and mouth as the flame behind him grew brighter and more intense. Once more J'onn was engulfed by it, however, the Py'tar twisted and turned to form a twisted trunk of a tree and it grew and grew, bursting through the roof at an insane speed. Flash and Kilowog watched in awe and one branch grew out with a smaller branch twisting around and a large flower blooming when it opened J'onn was lying there curled up as if it were a bed.
Flash helped the Martian out of it as J'onn groaned.
"I think…I made contact," J'onn said weakly.
Flash looked up at the large tree which was now fully grown and sprouting flowers.
"Yeah, I think you did too," Flash agreed "who knew you had such a Green Thumb,"
Kilowog turned to the bomb and kneeled, starting the process of disarming it. However, before he could finish a scream was heard coming from behind. Flash and Kilowog whirled around and gasped in horror at what they saw.
Below Despero temple.
John came back to consciousness and the first thing he saw was black bedrock above him. He tried to move but found that his wrists, ankles and neck were locked in a restraint. They were stretched and taught so that his limbs would be stretched out and held in place. He tried to move but couldn't as the restraints be too taught. He couldn't feel the ring on his finger either, not that it would have helped him much since he couldn't form and hold basic constructs.
"Kat, Shayera," John tried. Since he couldn't move his head, he didn't know if his friends were with him or not.
"I'm here," Hawkgirl answered "I think Kat is still out. How are you doing?"
"I'll let you know as soon as my head stops spinning,"
"Ah your awake, good," a familiar voice said and Despero floated down onto the platform "I was worried my men had been too rough on you all,"
"Despero," John growled.
"I have to say that you proved to be more trouble than your worth," Despero said "still it was a valiant effort,"
"Keep talking, it will make the look on your face that much more enjoyable when our friends blow your precious flame out," Hawkgirl challenged.
"The Py'tar cannot be extinguished, it is the very life of the planet and it's in each and every Kalanorian," Despero claimed "it is not something that can be truly destroyed,"
"Save your sermons for your cult," John shot back.
"You know I am glad you survived the Py'tar, you've proved yourself capable. I've just launched a second invasion wave and soon I will launch a third. I think you three will make fine additions to the army," Despero said and he rolled two green Lantern rings onto the table.
"Not interested," John shot back.
"Ah, you believe you have a choice in the matter. I apologise for implying as such," Despero said. He then moved over to Katama "It's a pity about your friends, they would have made fine additions to the army as well. I do hate being wasteful,"
"What do you mean?" John asked.
"Your flying friend, the one who tried to burn my temple has already been captured," Despero claimed.
"What…how?" Hawkgirl demanded.
"The temple was empty save for some worshippers. He was burning them. When my men pointed that out he put the flames out and surrounded," Despero claimed "he was taken to what was left of the warehouse and executed along with that tidies resistance,"
"Executed?" Hawkgirl asked. Her voice held more confusion than shock at the news of her friend's death.
"Indeed," Despero said with satisfaction "he was rather easy to dispose of and it's only a matter of time before those trying to destroy the Py'tar are caught as well,"
Hawkgirl and John glanced at each other for a moment wondering if Despero was serious.
"Uh…We are talking about the same person, right? Tall, silver hair, long black coat…kind of an edge lord," John asked.
"I do not know what that last one is but yes, I believe we are,"
"I hope you weren't planning to use the soldiers you sent after him in your next wave," John said "they're not going to be fit for duty,"
"He probably saved the Shifflet and the others as well," Hawkgirl added "bet they're already at a new hideout,"
"You speak as though your friends have survived, I assure you that is not the case," Despero claimed "for I decreed their live forfeit and the orders have already been carried out,"
"Let me put it this way. Have you seen a body or heard from the men you sent out since his capture?" Hawkgirl asked with a smirk.
"Whether you believe your friends have survived or not is irrelevant, you won't be believing it for much longer," Despero said and moved to stand in front of Katma. "Now priestess, I think it's time you returned to my side,"
Despero's third and closed eye opened and a stream of white light burst out of his forehead and engulfed Katma. She screamed in pain as the power of the Py'tar forced its way into her mind, twisting and turning it against itself and bending to Despero's will.
"KAT!" John shouted. He struggled against his restraints but they did not budge, he focused on his ring that was on the table not 15ft away from him. He tried to call out to it with his mind, summon the ring to him, but the ring didn't budge.
After several more minutes, Katma stopped screaming and Despero closed his third eye. He released Katama and she stood obediently in front of Despero, a white aura of the Py'tar flowed around her. Despero nodded in satisfaction.
"She's much more obedient this way," Despero said. He then moved over to Hawkgirl, he grabbed her chin to examine her. "This one, however, I don't think I'll put her in the army, her wings give her such an exotic quality," Despero then looked at John with a sick smile "Don't you agree? I think I will keep her as a Personal attendant,"
"Don't you touch her," John threatened.
"Oh, looks like we have a jealous lover on my hands. That is alright, in a few minutes you won't remember what love is," Despero claimed. He moved to stand in front of Hawkgirl and slowly lifted her mask. He then opened his third eye once more and the light of Py'tar came forth. Hawkgirl let out an ear-piercing scream.
Once again, John tried to call his ring to him like before it didn't budge. As Hawkgirl's screams got louder he closed his eyes and tried to focus, but once more the ring did not move. Hawkgirl's screams increased and John's desperation grew, he called to his ring with all his might and he could feel the smallest of tugs. It felt like there was a barrier between him and the ring and he so badly wanted to break it down and save Hawkgirl.
Suddenly the ring flew off the table and onto his finger. The moment the ring made contact, Green Lantern burst out of his restraints as they were nowhere near strong enough or designed to resist the power of a Green Power Ring.
"Oh yeah, I'm back baby," Green Lantern cheered as the familiar green glow surrounded him and he felt the power of the ring flow through him. He glared at Despero "You're going down now," he declared and charged at the Kalanorian.
Green lantern summoned up his will and focused it in one large blast. Despero mealy sighed.
"Foolish outsider, you have your ring but my power can rip through yours," Despero declared. He opened his third eye and met the green energy blast with one of his own, as the power of the Py'tar pushed Green Lanterns' attack back, John gritted his teeth and glanced over his shoulder, eyes falling on Hawkgirl. The moment he saw her his mind sharpened and he refocused; his blast grew and increased in power and ferocity and the green energy pushed back.
Fear flashed across Desperos face as the Py'tar's power was being overtaken. This shouldn't be happing, after all the Py'tar had overpowered several green lanterns at once and even killed 2 green lanterns prior without out much effort. Despero had to wonder why he was being pushed back by a single green lantern when it had been easy to take out the others. Despero pulled back, knowing that if he didn't he would be blasted and just barely avoided being hit.
The blast slammed into the back corner of the roof and the whole underground chamber started to shake; both green lantern and Despero looked at the roof worried. While the Green Lanterns blast was powerful it shouldn't have destabilised the chamber. The rocks started to crack and thick roots burst through parts of the walls and the ceiling causing chunks of rocks to fall.
Green Lantern flew over to Hawkgirl and Katma and created a proactive dome around the two women.
"Ah, so that's the source of your strength," Despero realised with a grin.
While Green Lantern was focusing on the dome, Despero blasted him in the back with his attack. Green Lantern cried out in pain and was knocked to the ground. Despero pinned him and wrapped his hands around Johns's neck intending to strangle him before he could fight back. Green Lantern used his ring to rip apart parts of the walls and earth and slammed 8 huge chunks of earth into Despero knocking the would-be warlord off him and releasing his grip. John took several deep breaths before talking Despero and punching the would-be conquer in the face, leaving an imprint of his ring on the Kalanorians third eye.
Despero tried to open it and unleash the Py'tar once more but he couldn't. his eye was too badly hurt, he could feel the Py'tars power just out of reach.
"Have a taste of your own medicine," Green Lantern declared and punched Despero once more under the chin. Despero fell backwards and John started the walk over to him, planning to finish him for good.
Suddenly a large root burst out of the ground underneath Despero, Green lantern stumbled back away from it and watched in shock as it wrapped itself around Despero and lifted him.
"What is going on?" He panicked "Py'tar, why have you forsaken me? I have only done your will,"
The root kept wrapping around him and while Despero struggled it was in vain, still just before the root completely ensnared him Despero spoke again. "Oh Py'tar, now I see…Paradise," he said and closed his eyes with a smile and he stopped resisting. The root coved Desperos face and then dragged him back down into the earth.
With all the damage done to the walls, the entire structure collapsed in on itself. Green Lantern flew back to Hawkgirl and Katma. Katama's glow from the Py'tar had completely faded and she was now lying unconscious. Green Lantern cut Hawkgirl free and greeted another dome, this time with a spinning drill on top just as the cavern collapsed.
About 15miunts after Desperos fall
Alucard floated through the city, careful not to touch the now grass-covered ground. He passed by many trees that had once been Kalanorians and Desperos loyal soldiers. Some children were out playing, running around, and enjoying the new environment; childlike wonder and curiosity taking over. Their parents nearby tried to pull them away from the trees and keep them indoors, fearful of the trees and the now grass-covered landscape. Alucard knew the older Kalanorians were simply afraid of the change.
After all, this planet had been a derelict wasteland, not more than a few hours ago, and now there were trees, flowers and all manner of other beautiful plants. While the trees had once been citizens of the planet. Alucard would not have believed that to be true if he had not seen it for himself. He was honestly floating, for this reason, not touching the ground out of fear if he did he too would turn into a tree. While he held no loyalty to Despero, he could not be sure that being loyal to him was a trigger for the metamorphosis to take place.
He watched some children ignore their parent's warnings and climb the trees, along with using some vines that had dropped down as a swing. The Parents must have noticed him starting because they ran up to their kids and tried to pull them away from Alucard and the trees. Alucard broke eye contact and flew into the sky, heading to Desperos temple; it was where he was Shifflet had headed. The older Kalanorian had been as equally shocked as the other members of the resistance and Alucard at Radocko sudden transformation into a tree; after all, no one else had changed. He spied the resistance leader from above, Flash, J'onn and Kilowog were standing nearby. They were all looking out over the landscape which was now covered in greenery as far as the eye could see.
Alucard lowered himself so he was hovering next to Flash
"It's a miracle," Shifflet said.
"It is the natural life force returning to the planet," J'onn explained "nothing more,"
"But many of its citizens have been turned into trees," Alucard pointed out looking back over the city.
"The Py'tar did say it would make those who did not reject Despero part of its paradise," Flash commented "guess it meant it literally,"
"The Py'tar said that?" Shifflet asked in surprise.
"Yes, it was a sentient being that was trapped, perhaps it thought Despero would free it. Instead, he used and abused its power," J'onn clarified.
"The flame was sentient?" Alucard asked in surprise.
"Regardless, Despero is gone now…right?" Kilowog asked and glanced around for confirmation.
"Maybe, I don't know," Flash answered.
"It would seem the most logical outcome," J'onn stated "given what it said while I was in contact with it,"
"What happened to Green Lantern and Hawkgirl?" Alucard asked.
"No clue, I ain't seen any green lantern rings fly off out of the city so they've got to be alive," Kilowog said.
No sooner had he said that the ground began to crack and the top of a green drill burst out. Once it has fully emerged Kilowog, Alucard, Flash J'onn and Shifflet saw that Green Lantern was inside the dome it was attached to and the contract disappeared.
"John, Kat," Kilowog celebrated and flew down to them and gave him a massive hug. "Your alive,"
"Barely," John said and looked down at the two unconscious girls "Kat and Hawkgirl need help though,"
Alucard floated over and knelt next to hawk girl. J'onn did the same to Katma. After a quick examination, nothing appeared to be wrong with them, they were just unconscious from their experience with Despero, likely caused by having the Py'tar ripped out of their minds by Green Lanterns fight and the flame gaining its freedom. Thankfully the girls were not out for very long and regained consciousness about twenty minutes later, they were surprised at the new greener that the planet had and each team filled in the others with what had happened. Green Lantern also explained what had happened to Despero and when
"So, I punched him in the face and that's when the roots appeared and took him," John confirmed.
"The guards I was dealing with also turned into trees…as did many of Kalanorian on the streets," Alucard stated.
"And Radocko," Shiflet added saddly.
"It's good that Despero is gone, but we should check on the neighbouring plants," Kilowog advised "we know Despero sent out an invasion force, see if they all turned into trees too,"
"Not a bad idea," Katma agreed "we'll also need to rebuild this Kalanor and assist its people in living in a new environment,"
"I do not believe it is wise to linger," Alucard said thoughtfully.
"Why not?"
"My castle is still on this planet and if life is returning to it…well…I would hate to be responsible for destroying it again,"
"Oh that," Hawkgirl remembered "good point,"
"Too bad, I kinda wanted to explore a bit," Flash commented "But I guess it can't be helped,"
"You're leaving already?" Katma asked
"Sorry Kat, duty calls,"
"You sure you want to go back to earth? We could use your help rebuilding here and given the state of the sudden appearance of habitable vegetation, the guardians will likely agree,"
"What of earth and the League?" Alucard asked, "if Green Lantern were to stay then…would it not leave our planet unprotected?"
"Hal, Guy or Ryner could easily take over for him," Kat said, waiving off Alucard's concern like they were irrelevant.
Alucard tilted his head slightly "are green lanterns so easily replaceable?" he asked.
Katma narrowed her eyes at the implication. "No, we aren't," she answered.
"Then why would you insist another take his place?" Alucard asked confused.
"Fine stay on earth, but you had better visit sometime," Katma said giving in.
"I think he'll be too busy for booty calls," Hawkgirl commented.
"Hawkgirl!" Green Lantern shouted. Both John and Katma turned different colours.
"What? That is what she was implying," Hawkgirl claimed.
"She was not,"
"Oh, no?" Hawkgirl asked and then looked at Alucard "did their heart rates go up?" she asked and gestured to the two green lanterns.
Alucard opened his mouth to respond however he was cut off. "Don't you dare answer that," Green Lantern threatened.
Alucard glanced between Hawkgirl and Green Lantern trying to decide which one he would not want to anger more. After a moment he just shook his head "I am staying out of this," and took several steps back.
"Good Idea, never get between the misses and the Ex," Flash smiled.
"Can we just go, please," Green Lantern moaned.
"I believe we can…as soon as Kilowog returns Green Lanterns charm," Alucard said.
"Oh, here you go," Kilowog said and handed it over to John. "I have no desire to go back to that castle anytime soon. By the way, next time I am going to investigate your friend's claims about eating endangered species,"
"Thanks," Green Lantern said and put the charm on and then he realised what Kilowog just said "I'm sorry what?"
But he didn't get an answer because Alucard grabbed him and the other League members and used the return spell, disappearing in a pillar of flames. They reappeared in the transport room and Alucard opened the door, that led to the control sphere. He walked past it and looked out the window at the ground. The greenery had made its way to the castle already and he could see it wilting and dark black crakes spreading out from the castle. Even with the Py'tars power, Alucard doubted anything would grow in this spot again.
Green Lantern flew over and looked out the window. "Huh, you did bring your castle to the other side of the universe," Green Lantern commented.
"Indeed," Alucard said, he then turned and moved to stand in front of the control sphere and reached out for it. "Before we leave…I must warn you all that when we return you may not be able to return to the tower for some time…as the castle will be using its power to reset up the barrier and keep the water and pressure of the ocean crushing us all,"
"How long will that take?" Flash asked.
"Roughly an hour…perhaps less," Alucard answered.
"Will our communicators work?" J'onn asked.
"I have no reason to believe they will not," Alucard answered.
"Then we can at least let Superman and Batman know we have returned and were successful," J'onn stated.
Alucard turned his attention to the control sphere and with a simple command, the castle's magic activated and in an instant, it was gone from Raner 7 and back under the ocean, settled in the cliffs that had been formed around it. The moment it appeared Alucard felt the castle lock itself and seal all cracks, windows, and anything that the ocean could break through. Additionally, the castle moaned and creaked under the pressure but that was all.
"So…we're back?" Flash asked.
"Yes, the castle has already started dealing with the ocean around us," Alucard confirmed. He then mentally commanded the castle to connect to the kitchen "would anyone like something to eat while we wait?"
"Yes please," Flash eagerly answered.
"Sure, I could eat," Green Lantern agreed.
"Stopping universal cult leading conquers builds up and appetite," Hawkgirl stated.
"I appreciate the thought but do not need sustenance at this time," J'onn politely declined.
Alucard nodded and headed for the door, once it was open, there was a kitchen on the other side and standing by an old burning hearth with a metal spit roast on it were Dracula and the librarian. Alucard entered with the league and raised an eyebrow at the metal carving knives and other utensils used for cooking a pig or boar.
Both Dracula and the Liberian looked up at their entrance. Flash immediately headed for the Icebox and started going through the cupboards looking for something to eat.
"Ah my lord has returned…where is the one known as Kilowog?" the librarian asked. Noticing that the Bolovaxian was not amongst them.
"Green Lantern Kilowog did not wish to return with us," Alucard stated.
"Oh, so we will not be eating him then. How disappointing," The librarian said and looked down at the "and I had gotten out the good dining sets too,"
Alucard shook his head and ignored the librarian as he started to pack up the utensils muttering about a missed opportunity and how rude Kilowog was being for not returning for dinner Alucard managed to find some food for the league