Gumdrop

by crypticevincar

In the multiverse, there's more need for contingency plans than ever before, and Batman can see potential threat in anything. In his constant need to be prepared, Batman creates a containment plan for...the Gummi Bears. This may be a series as a bunch of one-offs. I just came up with this while sitting at home the other night.

Agamemno Contingency

File Codename: Gumdrop

Threat assessment:

Gummi Bears are a species of anthropomorphic bears that live in a hidden valley called Gummi Glen. They have access to a magical potion called Gummiberry Juice, which grants them the ability to bounce at exaggerated heights and speeds or possess super strength, depending on the consumer. They are usually friendly and helpful, but aren't without enemies. This includes the evil Duke Igthorn and his army of ogres, who seek to steal their juice and use it for their own nefarious purposes.

Gummi Bears pose a potential threat to the world if they were to go rogue, either by corruption, manipulation, or brainwashing by an external force, or by developing a hostile attitude towards humans and other beings. Their bouncing abilities make them hard to catch and contain, and their super strength can potentially cause massive damage and destruction. They also have a secret network of underground tunnels and ancient technology that they can use to infiltrate and sabotage any location. Their knowledge of magic and history can also give them an edge over their opponents.

One of the Gummi Bears, Zummi, is a wizard who can perform spells from the Great Book of Gummi, using a Gummi-Medallion. He is the Keeper of the Great Gummi Library, as well as the one who makes and distributes Gummiberry Juice. His magic can be a powerful weapon or a useful tool for the Gummi Bears, depending on how he uses it. He is forgetful and clumsy, and while his spells tend to backfire, he can also be very wise and resourceful when needed.

Contingency:

In an attempt to limit their physical advantages, obtaining the location of the Gummiberry bushes will be paramount. Releasing a modified herbicide designed to kill only the gummiberry bushes is possible, but should only be used as a last resort incase of unforeseen fallout to other plants or animals. Instead, creating a counteragent to the juice's effects on the body could level the playing field. A successful injection may prove difficult while they're under the effects of the juice but vapor inhalation could also prove effective. Further testing is required to confirm. Existing non-lethal methods such as smoke bombs, flash bangs and gas can also be used but may be met with reduced effectiveness. Again, further testing is required. Reconnaissance of the surrounding area and tunnels used by the bears will be required to locate and sabotage their technology, such as the Gummiscope, Gummimobile, Gummizooka, and the Gummiflyer. Traps in the tunnels and passages themselves could prevent them from escaping or attacking with the element of surprise. This will cripple the Gummi Bears' mobility and defense, making them vulnerable to capture and containment. Inserting agents within the immediate area and deploying surveillance equipment are currently underway.

Capture and containment of the creatures would be preferable on a one-by-one basis, using non-lethal methods and weapons. In the interest of de-escalation, every attempt to subdue them using nonlethal methods such as nets, bolas, tranquilizers, and electric shocks will be made. This may include sound and light devices to disorient and distract them, and gas or smoke bombs as mentioned earlier. They will be transported to a secure, controlled location, where they will be placed in reinforced structures that will prevent them from bouncing or breaking free. This will neutralize the Gummi Bears' threat and allow questioning, deprogramming or neutralization of whatever force is working on their psyche.

The Gummi Bear's heightened abilities from the Gummiberry juice aren't the only possible threat from Gummi Glen. As mentioned above, Zummi is a practiced wizard with moderate to powerful magic. While his effectiveness wavers, he is still capable of performing impressive feats. This includes making allies faster or opponents slower, growing and shrinking objects, invisibility, fire casting, weather control and removing an opponent's armor. While other magic users such as Zatanna or Raven could be utilized to combat him, I believe that gaining his tome, the Great Book of Gummi along with his pendant, the Gummi-Medallion will prove the best defense against his abilities. If he can be distracted long enough, an inhibitor collar may also work to remove his magical abilities.