X-Men: The Unnatural Omega's Volume 4; Endgames
Chapter 28: The Curse of Jason and The Graduation
…
Half a day later…
The group wasn't taking any chances with Jason Voorhees. They had set up 24-hour shifts to watch him, ensuring that he was watched at all moments, as he just stood there eerily.
Elif and Alaric, two recently graduated witchers, stood watch alongside Atreus. Several mystics from Nirn and Faerûn were helping set up ancient spells to keep Jason contained. Gandalf the White and Talion were also present, each feeling the sheer murderous intent emanating from Jason even though he was not able to move with the thick chains holding him down, they still kept kept their distance though.
Gandalf, his mithril-infused staff at the ready, stood with the mystics. They chanted ancient spells, their voices harmonizing in a protective barrier around Jason's containment ensuring that he couldn't escape, the weight of the situation pressing down on everyone present.
Talion, still on alert, stood nearby, his face set in a grim expression. He was going through a list of Jason Voorhees' known methods of killing people, each entry more horrifying than the last.
The list was as follows…
…
Drowning Victims: Jason often drowned his victims, a grim nod to the fate of the boy that was his first body.
Machete Attacks: His signature weapon, the machete, had taken countless lives in various brutal ways.
Strangulation: Using his immense strength, Jason frequently strangled his victims or even one time, twisted a man's head around 180 degrees snapping his neck.
Impaling: He had impaled victims on various objects, including tree branches and fence posts.
Crushing: With his superhuman strength, Jason had crushed skulls and torsos one time even bending a man in half backwards breaking him in two.
Decapitation: He had decapitated victims with swift, brutal efficiency with one occasion detailing how he literally punched a young man's head off in one hit.
Electrocution: Jason had used electrical equipment to electrocute his victims and one time smashed a cop into a control panel as he was being electrocuted himself, literally holding him down as he fried him.
Fire: Setting his victims on fire whether by intention or just by plain dumb luck was another method in his grisly repertoire.
Blunt Force Trauma: Jason often used blunt objects to deliver fatal blows one time he even punched through a man's chest cavity and tore out the heart while he was still alive.
Vehicle Attacks: He had used vehicles to run over or crush his victims though, not directly, more often it was someone else behind the wheel that he killed that spun the vehicle out of control.
…
The more Talion read, the more sickened he became. He looked up from the list, his eyes reflecting the horror of the brutal methods described. "This isn't just a killer," he muttered to himself. "This is a force of pure, unrelenting evil."
Gandalf's grip tightened on his staff, the mithril glowing faintly in the dim light. "We must be prepared for anything," he said, his voice carrying the weight of his centuries of wisdom and experience. "This creature is not to be underestimated."
The mystics nodded in agreement, their spells weaving a complex web of protection around the cell. They knew that any lapse in their vigilance could be disastrous.
Derreck approached the group, his face set in a determined expression. "How are the preparations coming along?" he asked.
Gandalf nodded. "The spells are holding for now though; we won't know how effective they are should he attempt to escape since they haven't tried holding something like him before.
Atreus, his bow at the ready, added, "We've got eyes on him around the clock. He won't make a move without us knowing."
Derreck stood vigilant; his senses heightened as he monitored Jason Voorhees. Amid the tension, a sudden, subtle shift caught his attention—something only he could perceive. His eyes narrowed, focusing on Jason. A faint distortion in the air around the restrained killer began to shimmer.
Before Derreck could react, Jason Voorhees vanished. The chains that had bound him clattered to the ground, empty. Chaos erupted as the realization sank in.
"Shit! HE CAN TELEPORT!" Derreck shouted, his voice cutting through the confusion.
The room descended into chaos as the assembled group scrambled to respond to Jason's sudden disappearance. Gandalf's eyes widened in shock, his staff glowing brightly as he cast protective spells around the room. "Stay alert! He could be anywhere!"
Elif and Alaric drew their swords, their senses on high alert as they scanned the area for any sign of the killer. Atreus notched an arrow, ready to fire at a moment's notice.
Talion, his face set in a grim expression, as he drew his sword his ranger instincts on high alert.
"He's gone, but he can't have gone far."
Derreck quickly took charge, his voice steady and authoritative. "We need to spread out and find him. Stay in pairs and keep communication open. We can't let him get the drop on us."
Gandalf nodded, rallying the mystics. "We must reinforce the protective wards around Krakoa. This creature must not be allowed to roam free."
The mystics, their faces pale but determined, began chanting once more, their spells weaving a stronger web of protection around the island.
Derreck, his mind racing, turned to the Batmen. "We need to track him. Any ideas?"
Injustice Batman, already scanning for any unusual energy signatures, replied, "We'll use our sensors to detect any anomalous movements. Jason's teleportation will likely leave a trace we can follow."
Lego Batman added, "We can triangulate his position if he teleports again. We'll find him."
The group split into pairs, each one equipped with sensors and communication devices. As they moved through Krakoa, the atmosphere was tense, every shadow a potential threat.
Logan and Laura led one group, their keen senses attuned to any disturbance. "We'll find him," Logan growled. "And when we do, we'll make sure he can't teleport again."
As the search teams spread out across Krakoa, Derreck quickly alerted the entire island to the situation. Alarms blared, and an announcement echoed through the intercom system: "Attention all residents, we are on full lockdown. A dangerous entity is on the loose. Stay indoors and secure your locations. Security teams are on the move."
Halfway across the island, Jason Voorhees moved with eerie silence and purpose. The thick foliage of Krakoa rustled as he advanced, his presence a dark shadow among the vibrant greenery.
Legolas, Gimli, and Aragorn were patrolling a nearby area when they received the alert. They immediately went on high alert, scanning their surroundings for any sign of the intruder.
"Stay sharp," Aragorn whispered, drawing his sword. "He could be anywhere."
Legolas, his keen elven eyes darting through the shadows, suddenly stiffened. "There!" he exclaimed, notching an arrow and drawing his bowstring.
Jason emerged from the underbrush, his hulking form a stark contrast to the serene environment. Without hesitation, Legolas released a volley of arrows. They struck Jason, embedding deeply into his torso. However, Jason merely paused, glancing down at the arrows with a cold, almost mechanical indifference before continuing his advance.
"By the Valar," Gimli muttered, hefting his axe. "What kind of monster is this?"
Aragorn moved swiftly, his blade flashing as he struck at Jason. The sword cut deep, but Jason did not falter. He swung his arm intending to grab Aragorn's skull and crush it in his grip, , forcing Aragorn to dodge quickly.
Legolas continued firing arrows, each shot finding its mark, but Jason remained undeterred. Gimli charged, his axe swinging in a powerful arc. He aimed for Jason's head, but the blade was met with resistance as it struck the hockey mask, knocking it off with a resounding crack.
The trio recoiled in horror at the sight revealed beneath the mask. Jason's face was a grotesque, decayed visage. His skin was pallid and rotting, a hollow eye socket staring blankly. A visible fracture ran across his skull-like face, giving him an appearance more akin to a corpse than a living being.
Legolas took a step back, his eyes wide with shock. "He's... he's a corpse!"
Aragorn tightened his grip on his sword, his face grim. "Whatever he is, we must stop him."
Gimli, his usual bravado shaken, growled, "This ends now!" He swung his axe again, aiming for Jason's neck, but Jason caught the handle with his bare hand and shoved Gimli back with incredible strength.
The trio exchanged desperate glances, realizing their conventional methods were failing. Jason's relentless advance and their ineffective attacks stoked their panic. They needed a new strategy, and quickly.
"Fall back!" Aragorn shouted, making a tactical decision. "We need to regroup and rethink our approach!"
Legolas and Gimli complied, putting distance between themselves and the advancing Jason. They needed to come up with a new plan before this unstoppable force reached more vulnerable areas of Krakoa.
Gandalf and Logan's teams arrived just in time to see Legolas, Gimli, and Aragorn struggling against the unstoppable force that was Jason Voorhees. Gandalf's eyes narrowed as he assessed the situation.
"Stand back!" Gandalf commanded, raising his staff, its mithril-infused tip glowing with a brilliant light. He chanted an incantation, and a powerful blast of magic surged forward, striking Jason square in the chest.
The magical blast tore through Jason's chest cavity, leaving a gaping hole and revealing his spine. Red pooled around him, but to everyone's shock, Jason continued his relentless advance, now directing his malevolent gaze towards Gandalf.
Logan, seeing the immediate danger, had enough. "Get back, Gandalf!" he roared, lunging at Jason with ferocity. His claws extended, slashing at Jason with a fury fueled by years of battle experience.
Laura stood ready to provide backup, knowing she was their trump card. Like Derreck, she possessed the resilience needed to stand up to this monstrous foe.
Logan nearly gained the upper hand, his claws ripping into Jason's flesh. For a moment, it seemed as though they might have a chance. But then, with incredible strength that Logan hadn't anticipated, Jason grabbed him.
Before Logan could react, Jason smashed him into a nearby tree, the impact splintering the wood. Jason repeated the brutal process, swinging Logan like a rag doll and smashing him into the tree again and again. The sound of breaking wood and the force of the blows made everyone wince.
If not for Logan's adamantium skeleton and healing factor, he would have been a dead man. As it was, the assault left him dazed, his vision swimming from the sheer force of Jason's strength.
Gandalf, horrified by the scene, shouted a command. "Focus your attacks! We must bring him down!"
Laura, seeing her opportunity, lunged at Jason with a speed and ferocity that matched Logan's. Her claws slashed through the air, aiming for Jason's neck. The mystics and other defenders rallied, coordinating their efforts to contain the monster.
Gandalf, regaining his composure, began casting another spell, this time focusing on binding Jason with enchanted chains. "Keep him distracted! We need to bind him before he can cause more harm!"
Laura's arm shapeshifted into a giant mallet, and she swung it with all her might, pummeling Jason into the roots and ground. The impact resulted in a very wet CRUNCH, destroying his upper chest cavity and his head. Jason's body went slack, the relentless killer finally brought down.
The defenders took a collective step back, breathing heavily from the intense battle. Only Laura, with her invulnerable nature, remained composed, watching Jason's body for any signs of movement.
As they caught their breath, Gimli noticed something moving within Jason's chest cavity. "Wait! There's something coming out of the heart!" he shouted, his voice tinged with alarm.
Everyone's eyes turned to the gruesome sight as a small, snake-like demon creature with a skull-like face and tiny arms emerged from the body. Even Legolas, accustomed to many horrors, gagged at the sight.
The demon creature squealed in rage, its tiny eyes glowing with malevolent fury. Laura, acting quickly, summoned roots from the ground to bind the little creature. The roots wrapped around it tightly, immobilizing it despite its frantic struggles.
With the demonic entity bound and Jason's body lying in pieces, the defenders took a moment to regroup. Gandalf approached the bound creature, his eyes filled with both horror and disgust.
"This is the source of the corruption," he said realizing what they just captured.
…
As the defenders secured the demon, messages were sent out to summon Dr. Strange, Avallac'h, and several mystics from Nirn and Faerûn to analyze the dark entity they had captured. The atmosphere in the makeshift lab was tense, with everyone eager to understand the nature of the demonic force they were dealing with.
Voldemort, known for his expertise in dark magic, stepped forward to examine the creature first. His expression was one of intense focus as he probed the demon with his magic.
"This is no ordinary demon," Voldemort said, his voice low and measured. "First, it's influenced by the memories of its host. Second, it doesn't just take over bodies; it assimilates them. And third..." He paused, his eyes narrowing. "It's slowly turning into another Jason. It's like the Phoenix from legend, but far more demonic in nature."
The group exchanged uneasy glances. Even those accustomed to dark and dangerous entities found themselves unnerved by Voldemort's words.
"Are you saying this thing can perpetually come back as Jason?" Dr. Strange asked, his voice filled with concern.
Voldemort nodded. "Yes, it appears so. The dark energy coming off this thing is unlike anything I've ever seen. It's engineered to return to this earthly plane indefinitely. It's almost as if it's designed to never stay dead."
The small demon creature snarled and hissed inside its enchanted enclosure, its tiny eyes glowing with malevolent fury. The sheer malevolence radiating from it made the air feel thick with dread.
Van Helsing, observing the creature with disgust, shook his head. "This is truly vile. I've seen many forms of evil, but this is something else entirely."
Dante, visibly disturbed, muttered a curse under his breath and took a long drink from his flask, using it as a lifeline to steady his nerves. "Just when I thought I'd seen everything..."
Voldemort continued his analysis, his expression growing darker with each discovery. "Sending it to hell won't work. This thing has specific magics that bring it back to the earthly plane indefinitely. The only course of action we have is to put it to sleep and contain it."
Alaric the Witcher, who had been silently observing, voiced his disgust. "A creature that never truly dies... This is an abomination."
Avallac'h, his face etched with concern, added, "We must find a way to ensure it remains contained. The danger it poses is too great to allow it any chance of escape."
Dr. Strange, now fully grasping the severity of the situation, began to formulate a plan. "We will need the strongest containment spells available, layered with protection against any form of escape. This will require the combined efforts of all our mystics."
Gandalf, his mithril-infused staff glowing with readiness, agreed. "Yes, and we must use every resource at our disposal to keep this demon contained."
…
A short while later, Injustice Batman was assisting Dr. Strange, Avallac'h, and Voldemort in setting up the last of the magical and physical restraints around the demon. The mystics, their faces etched with concentration, applied powerful sleeping spells to the monstrous entity, ensuring it remained immobilized.
In the room next door, another grim task awaited. Bulma, alongside Perseus, Kratos' daughter who worked at the infirmary, and Dr. Thirano, a Dunmer doctor from Morrowind, took on the gruesome task of analyzing the remains of Jason Voorhees' former body.
The body, more resembling a corpse than anything alive, lay on the examination table. Perseus and Dr. Thirano began documenting the extensive damage it had endured. The list of injuries were as follows.
…
Severe Cranial Damage:
Skull fractures and depressions, particularly on the right side where it had been repeatedly struck.
Empty eye socket, indicating the loss of the eye long before its final demise.
Extensive Tissue Decomposition:
Skin and muscle tissue showed significant signs of rot and decomposition, with large portions missing or hanging loosely.
The flesh was mottled and discolored, showing years of decay.
Multiple Chest Injuries:
Ribcage shattered in several places, likely from repeated blunt force trauma.
Several ribs were completely missing or splintered beyond recognition.
Large, gaping hole in the chest where Gandalf's blast had penetrated, exposing the spine and internal organs.
Limb Damage:
Both arms and legs showed signs of severe trauma, including compound fractures
and exposed bone.
Right arm partially severed, held together only by decomposed muscle and sinew.
Spinal Damage:
Vertebrae misaligned and shattered in several places.
Lower spine showing evidence of multiple high-impact injuries, likely from falls and heavy impacts.
Internal Organ Destruction:
Many organs were either missing or in advanced stages of decomposition.
Heart, liver, and lungs were barely recognizable, appearing as shriveled, blackened masses.
…
Bulma, using advanced technology, scanned the remains, creating detailed holographic images of the injuries. Perseus took notes, her face a mixture of determination and revulsion. Dr. Thirano, with his extensive medical knowledge, provided insights into the injuries, noting the abnormal resilience of the body despite its condition.
"These injuries are catastrophic," Perseus noted, her voice steady despite the gruesome sight. "It's a wonder this thing was even able to move, let alone kill."
Dr. Thirano nodded. "Yeah. The level of damage suggests an unnatural force was at work, keeping it animated despite the state of its body."
Bulma, reviewing the data, added, "This confirms what we've seen. The demon's influence was the only thing keeping it going. Without it, this body should have been nothing more than a pile of bones and rot."
As they continued their examination, Bulma noticed something unusual. She leaned in closer, her analytical mind piecing together the subtle details.
"The scarring and deformities on these injuries," she began, pointing to various wounds, "they're in different states of regeneration. It's almost like... this body was regenerating just enough to keep it going but wasn't enough to keep the rot at bay."
Perseus and Dr. Thirano exchanged glances, nodding in agreement.
When they turned their attention to the chest cavity, Bulma leaned over to get a closer look. As she did, her eyes widened in horror. Inside the gaping hole, amidst the decayed organs, were maggots writhing and squirming.
Bulma instantly recoiled, her face turning pale. "Oh god..." she whispered, unable to hide her revulsion.
She stepped back, covering her mouth with her hand. "I... I need a moment," she stammered, excusing herself quickly as she fought to keep her composure.
Perseus and Dr. Thirano understood immediately, their own expressions reflecting the gruesome reality of the task at hand. As Bulma exited the room to gather herself, Perseus took a deep breath, steeling herself to continue.
"This is beyond anything I've ever seen," Perseus murmured, her voice a mix of determination and disgust. "We need to document everything, no matter how horrifying."
Dr. Thirano nodded, his expression grim but resolute. "We need to understand every aspect of this if we're going to prevent something like this from happening again."
As Bulma took a moment to recover outside, the rest of the team continued their grim work, determined to uncover the full extent of the horror they were dealing with.
…
Thirty minutes later…
Elsewhere, in the room where they were containing the demon, Injustice Batman, Avallac'h, Dante, Lady, and a few other mystics stood in shock. The scene before them was almost too surreal to comprehend.
Within a few hours, despite being under powerful sleeping spells and containment wards, the small demon-like serpent had transformed. It now resembled Jason Voorhees once more, complete with a hockey mask, a jacket, and an outfit eerily similar to his original form. Even a machete had manifested, though they had quickly moved it away from him.
The transformation was disturbing in its accuracy. The new Jason Voorhees looked almost identical to his previous self, a testament to the demonic power at play.
Injustice Batman, his usually stoic expression faltering, shook his head in disbelief. "This is beyond anything I've ever encountered. It's like he's reborn from the very essence of the demon."
Avallac'h, his face pale but composed, added, "The dark magic at work here is powerful and insidious. This entity seems to recreate itself perfectly, drawing on the memories and essence of its former host."
Dante, always one to face danger head-on, looked visibly disturbed. "I've seen a lot of hellish things, but this... this is something else, something far worse." He glanced at Lady, who nodded in agreement, her usual confidence shaken by the grotesque transformation.
Lady, her eyes fixed on the new Jason, remarked, "It's like looking at a nightmare that just won't end. We need to figure out how to stop this for good."
Injustice batman wasn't about to take any chances though.
"Even if he is asleep for now, let's continue to work, the more we add to the containment the better."
Avallac'h nodded. "Agreed. We'll need the strongest wards and perhaps even more potent sleeping spells. Whatever it takes to keep this abomination contained."
After ensuring that Jason wouldn't be waking up again, the team breathed a collective sigh of relief. The containment spells and wards were reinforced to the highest degree, and the demon was securely bound in its newly reformed Jason Voorhees body.
Injustice Batman, shaken by the events, found himself needing solace. He made his way to the portal leading to his universe where his family and allies were gathered on the other side, seeking the comfort and grounding that only they could provide.
As he entered the room, he saw Selena and his son. Their presence immediately brought a sense of calm to his turbulent thoughts. He approached them, his expression softening as he took in the sight of his loved ones.
Selena, noticing his arrival, gave him a warm smile. "Hey, how are you holding up?"
Injustice Batman shook his head slightly, a wry smile on his lips. "It's been... a day. Jason Voorhees was unlike anything I've ever encountered. The sheer horror of it all... it really disturbed me."
His son, listening intently, asked, "What was he like, Dad?"
Injustice Batman took a deep breath, trying to find the right words to describe the nightmare they had faced. "Jason was a relentless killer, almost unstoppable. The worst part wasn't just his physical presence, but the evil that kept bringing him back. It's rare that something shakes me to my core, but Jason did."
Selena placed a comforting hand on his arm. "You did what you had to do. And now, you're here with us. That's what matters."
He nodded, feeling the weight of the day slowly lift from his shoulders. "You're right. For now, I'm just glad to be with you both." He embraced them, drawing strength from their presence.
For the rest of the day, Injustice Batman spent time with his family and their allies. They shared stories, laughed, and found solace in each other's company. The horrors of the day gradually faded into the background, replaced by the warmth and love of those he held dear.
…
Bulma stood at the sink, splashing water on her face. The nausea from examining Jason Voorhees' remains had hit her hard. She had encountered beings like Frieza, Cell, and Buu before, but they all had some form of intelligence, some level of compromise. They weren't mindless; their brutality had a purpose or at least some twisted rationale behind it.
But Jason was different. He didn't give his victims a chance. He just... killed them in gruesome ways, period. As she thought about it more, the horror of what she had seen sank in deeper.
Her mind drifted to her own universe's Hell, which was almost whimsical and looney in comparison to the hells of most realities. There, villains like Frieza and Cell had their punishments which was more about imprisonment than torture, but even they retained their personalities and could be reasoned with to some extent.
But Jason Voorhees was one of the worst she'd encountered so far. He was a mindless killer, driven by a demonic force that cared nothing for reason or mercy. The sheer brutality and rotten state of his corpse reflected the pure evil that animated him.
Bulma took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. She had faced many challenges before, and she knew she had the strength to face this one too. But the encounter with Jason had shaken her in a way she hadn't expected.
Looking at her reflection in the mirror, she saw the determination in her eyes. "I won't let this get to me," she whispered to herself. "We'll figure out how to deal with this and make sure it never happens again."
Bulma, needing time to relax after the harrowing examination, made her way to the bar. The familiar hum of the Mr. Handy robot, Cogsworth, from Jake's and Erick's world, greeted her as she approached.
"Good afternoon, madam. What can I get for you today?" Cogsworth asked in his polite, robotic tone.
"A soda, please," Bulma replied, trying to steady her nerves.
As she waited, Goku joined her, having heard about what had happened during the examination. His usual cheerful demeanor was subdued, and it was clear that even he was disturbed by what he had read about Jason and his methods of killing people.
Goku sat down next to Bulma in silence, his face reflecting his inner turmoil. "And we thought Frieza was bad..." he muttered, shaking his head.
Bulma nodded in agreement, her thoughts still heavy with the gruesome details of Jason's remains. Cogsworth handed her the soda, and she took a long sip, trying to wash away the lingering nausea.
Goku's meal was brought over by Taz, who bustled around the bar with his usual chaotic energy. Despite his wild demeanor, Taz handled the food with surprising care, ensuring everything was perfect.
The two friends sat there in silence, the weight of their recent experiences hanging in the air. The bar was a place of solace, where they could momentarily escape the horrors, they had faced.
Bulma glanced at Goku, finding comfort in his presence. Even in their silence, there was an unspoken understanding between them. They had both faced unimaginable horrors, and they knew they would continue to face them together.
Goku took another bite of his meal, his eyes reflecting the same determination that Bulma felt. "We'll get through this," he finally said, breaking the silence.
Bulma nodded, feeling a renewed sense of resolve. "Yeah, we will."
…
In light of recent events, Derreck and Laura accepted an invitation to attend the fourth year of graduation at New Horizons School on the mainland. The principle, Jean Grey, was making the final preparations for the event. This was the fourth year of mutant, human, and other beings' children graduating from across their universe. The event held particular significance for Kratos and Lysandra, as Calliope was graduating in the medical field, a goal she had worked tirelessly towards.
The graduation ceremony was a grand affair, held in the expansive grounds of the New Horizons School. Families and friends gathered to celebrate the achievements of their loved ones. Among the attendees were Atreus and Angrboða, with their daughter Hel, giving Atreus' half-sister, Calliope, their support. Freya, Sif, and Thrud, who was with Luminous Frost, were also present, along with Tyr and his family, Firestar and his young daughter Lysandra. Deimos sat respectfully, giving Calliope his approval, while Kratos and Lysandra's mother, Callisto, beamed with joy at seeing her granddaughter's accomplishment.
Perseus, Atreus, and Calliope's half-sister were also there, waiting patiently for Calliope to receive her diploma.
As the ceremony proceeded, Jean Grey called each graduate to the stage. When it was Calliope's turn, a wave of pride and anticipation washed over the assembled family members.
"Calliope," Jean Grey announced with a smile, "please come forward to receive your diploma."
Calliope, wearing her graduation gown and cap, walked confidently to the stage. Her hard work and dedication were evident in her radiant smile. The audience erupted in applause, her family members cheering loudly.
Calliope stepped up to Jean Grey, who handed her the diploma with a proud smile. "Congratulations, Calliope. Your dedication and perseverance have truly paid off."
Calliope's smile widened as she took the diploma. "Thank you, Principal Grey. It means a lot."
She proceeded to receive various degrees in the medical field, each one was hard earned speaking to her relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence. As she turned to face the audience, she saw the proud faces of her family and friends. Kratos' stoic expression softened with pride, and Lysandra had tears of joy in her eyes. Atreus and Angrboða smiled warmly, while Hel clapped enthusiastically.
The ceremony continued with more graduates receiving their diplomas, but for Calliope, this moment was special. Her family had supported her through countless hours of study and hard work, and now they were here to share in her triumph.
After the ceremony, the families gathered outside, mingling and celebrating. Calliope found herself surrounded by loved ones, each offering their congratulations.
Kratos approached her first, his stern face softened by a rare smile. "You've made us all very proud, Calliope."
Calliope hugged her father tightly. "Thank you, Dad. I couldn't have done it without everyone's support."
Lysandra wiped away a tear. "We always knew you had it in you, Calliope."
Atreus clapped her on the back. "Great job, sis. You've set the bar pretty high."
Angrboða nodded in agreement. "You've done amazing work, Calliope. Congratulations."
Freya, Sif, Thrud, and Luminous Frost added their own congratulations, while Tyr, Firestar, and their daughter Lysandra offered warm smiles and kind words. Deimos, with a proud nod, added his approval.
Callisto, beaming with joy, hugged her granddaughter. "You've made me so proud, Calliope."
Perseus and Atreus' half-sister also joined in the congratulations, adding to the chorus of praise.
As the celebrations continued, Calliope looked around at her family and friends, feeling a deep sense of gratitude and accomplishment. She knew that this was just the beginning of her journey in the medical field, but with the support of those she loved, she knew she was ready.
…
Off to the side, Derreck and Laura mingled with the other attendees, enjoying the joyous atmosphere of the graduation ceremony. They exchanged smiles and congratulations with many proud families, sharing in the collective celebration of their children's achievements.
As they moved through the crowd, they eventually spotted Peter Parker and his love, Mary Jane, from the dark multiverse. Derreck and Laura had heard how Peter and Mary Jane had moved in together, and they were curious to catch up with them.
Peter and Mary Jane were not alone. They had brought their young daughter, Lilly, who was around the same age as Orion and Aurora. Lilly looked up at Derreck and Laura curiously, her bright eyes full of wonder.
"Peter, Mary Jane! It's great to see you both," Derreck greeted them warmly.
Peter grinned. "Hey, Derreck. Laura. Good to see you, too. This is our daughter, Lilly."
Mary Jane smiled, holding Lilly's hand. "Lilly, this is Derreck and Laura. And these are their children, Orion and Aurora."
Lilly, with her red curls and bright smile, looked at Aurora with interest. "Hi," she said shyly.
Aurora smiled back, her pink and blue eyes sparkling. "Hi, Lilly. Do you want to play?"
Lilly nodded eagerly. The two girls quickly began chatting, their initial shyness giving way to the excitement of making a new friend.
As the adults continued to chat, Derreck and Laura learned more about Peter and Mary Jane's new life together. They shared stories and laughter, enjoying the chance to relax and connect.
Orion joined Aurora and Lilly, and the three children quickly became engrossed in their own little world, playing games and exploring the area around them. It was heartwarming to see the bond forming between them.
Laura watched the children play, a soft smile on her face. "It's amazing how quickly they make friends," she remarked.
Derreck nodded, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. "Yeah. It's a good reminder of how strong and open-hearted they are. They adapt so quickly."
Peter glanced over at Lilly and the other children, his expression one of quiet pride. "I'm just glad they have a chance to be happy and safe. After everything, they deserve it."
Nearby, Nightcrawler approached Calliope and her family, his warm smile reflecting his genuine happiness for her achievements. "Congratulations, Calliope," he said, his voice filled with pride and joy. "You've worked so hard, and it's wonderful to see you achieve your dreams."
Calliope beamed, hugging Nightcrawler tightly. "Thank you, Kurt. Your support has meant so much to me."
As Nightcrawler and Calliope spoke, Perseus joined them, her eyes shining with happiness for her sister. She leaned into Nightcrawler, nuzzling up to him affectionately. Their relationship was no secret and seeing them together brought a smile to Kratos' face. He had come to see Nightcrawler as a son-in-law, appreciating the love and support he provided to Perseus.
Kratos, standing nearby, watched the interaction with a rare smile. He placed a hand on Perseus's shoulder, his voice gruff but affectionate. "You've chosen well, Perseus. Kurt is a good man."
Perseus smiled up at her father. "Thank you, Dad. Kurt makes me very happy."
Nightcrawler, slightly blushing, nodded respectfully to Kratos. "I'm honored to be part of your family."
The family gathered together, sharing in the joy of Calliope's graduation. They laughed and exchanged stories, the bond between them growing stronger with each passing moment.
Watching his family interact, Kratos felt a deep sense of contentment. He had fought many battles, faced countless enemies, but moments like these reminded him of what he was fighting for. The future was uncertain, but if there's one thing he knows, it's that he received a second chance to correct all the wrongs of his past, due in no small part to the almighty.
And he will make the most of it.
As the celebration at New Horizons School began to wind down, families and friends started to make their way back home. The day had been filled with joy, pride, and a sense of accomplishment. Derreck and Laura, along with their children, bid farewell to their friends and family, feeling grateful for the support and love they had experienced.
…
Elsewhere in another universe
In a different part of the galaxy, on the desert planet of Tatooine, Ahsoka Tano and Din Djarin, the Mandalorian, were engaged in their occasional negotiations with local warlords. Accompanying them were a few former Imperial officer droids and astromech droids, all of whom had found new purposes in this changing universe.
The former troopers, now with individual names and professions, had integrated into the workforce across the galaxy. Many of the former Imperial droids, now with true sentience, had also joined the workforce, contributing their unique skills and knowledge.
Ahsoka, Din, and the droids were discussing living arrangements and reviewing the progress they were making in their respective fields. The former Imperial personnel were highly sought after by employers for their extensive knowledge of Imperial technology, protocols, and secret operations.
During the negotiations, it became clear that these individuals were invaluable to all sorts of employers across the galaxy. From manufacturing plants to shipping yards and even security details, their expertise was in high demand.
Boba Fett, who had taken an interest in these developments, had heard that the entire criminal underworld was eager to recruit these former Imperials. However, these individuals operated under a strict code of honor. They refused to engage in illegal activities and demanded transparency and assurances of legality in any job they took on.
Ahsoka and Din listened as the warlords expressed their admiration for the work ethic and dedication of these former Imperials. Their commitment to turning over a new leaf had earned them respect and recognition from all walks of life in the galaxy.
With the negotiations regarding the former Imperial personnel concluded, Ahsoka and Din turned their attention to a more pressing and complicated issue. They moved to a secure meeting room within the settlement, accompanied by a few trusted droids and allies. The room was equipped with holographic projectors and communication arrays, ensuring their discussion remained confidential.
Ahsoka activated the holographic projector, displaying a detailed image of the new droid model that Batman and the Justice League had encountered at an auction a while ago. The droid was unlike any they had seen before. It possessed force powers by utilizing midi-chlorian canisters on its back and had protocols built into its body that allowed it to use all fighting styles of lightsabers. Additionally, it could manifest various lightsaber-style weapons from its body.
Din folded his arms, studying the hologram with a furrowed brow. "We've never encountered anything like this before. A droid that can use the Force and fight like a Jedi… it's unprecedented."
Ahsoka nodded, her expression serious. "It's a game-changer, no doubt. But it also poses a significant risk. If Palpatine gets his hands on this droid, it could tip the balance of power in his favor."
Din sighed, as he processed this. "So, what do we do with it? We can't just let it roam free. But on the other hand, it's sentient now. We can't simply shut it down or imprison it."
Ahsoka looked thoughtful. "We need to find a way to utilize its abilities while ensuring it doesn't fall into the wrong hands. Maybe we can integrate it into our operations, give it a purpose that aligns with our goals."
One of the former Imperial officer droids, now an advisor, spoke up. "The droid's knowledge and abilities could be invaluable. If we train it properly and ensure it understands our code of ethics, it could become a powerful ally."
Din nodded slowly. "Agreed. But we need to be cautious. We should also consider its autonomy. It's sentient, after all. We need to respect its agency while ensuring it remains an asset rather than a liability."
Ahsoka glanced around the room, her mind racing with possibilities. "We need to communicate with the droid, understand its intentions and capabilities better. If we can establish a mutual understanding and respect, we might be able to work together effectively."
The group decided to take a balanced approach. They would initiate contact with the droid, assess its capabilities and intentions, and offer it a role within their operations. They would provide training and support, ensuring the droid adhered to their ethical standards while leveraging its unique abilities for the greater good.
Bo-Katan Kryze sat across from the droid, her helmet resting on the table as a gesture of goodwill. The room was filled with a sense of anticipation. Ahsoka Tano, Din Djarin (Mando), and a few other trusted allies were present, observing the interaction closely. The droid, with its sleek design and glowing white canisters of midi-chlorians lining its spine, showed subtle gestures and movements that hinted at an intelligence beyond any droid they had encountered.
Bo-Katan leaned forward, her eyes meeting the droid's glowing gaze. "Let's start with the basics. What is your designation?"
The droid's head tilted slightly, a gesture that seemed almost human. "I am designated as D-11, but you may call me Eleven."
"Alright, Eleven," Bo-Katan continued, her voice steady. "What can you tell us about your capabilities and your purpose?"
Eleven's optical sensors flickered momentarily. "I am equipped with the ability to fight in all known Jedi styles and to use various Force powers. My primary function appears to be combat and data analysis. However, my programming is... flexible."
Bo-Katan nodded, appreciating the droid's straightforwardness. "What do you want to do with your abilities, Eleven? Do you have any aspirations or goals?"
Eleven paused, its movements subtly mirroring the contemplative gestures of a sentient being deep in thought. "I am... uncertain. My databases contain extensive historical records and combat protocols, but I lack personal experience. I am... unsure of my purpose."
As Eleven spoke, its tone was filled with a nuance that hinted at an underlying complexity. Bo-Katan glanced at Ahsoka, who was watching intently, her expression one of empathy and curiosity.
"I have various histories downloaded into my databases," Eleven continued, pausing for a moment as if processing information. "Apparently, I have historical records from the Jedi Temple before Palpatine destroyed it all those years ago."
The room fell silent as everyone absorbed the implications of Eleven's statement. Ahsoka's eyes widened in surprise, and Din Djarin quickly interfaced with the droid, their systems overwhelmed with data.
"These records," Din said, his voice tinged with awe, "they're... comprehensive. Detailed accounts of Jedi teachings, artifacts, locations... This is incredible."
Eleven's optical sensors flickered again, processing the data. "I also found a deeply embedded code within my systems. It contains coordinates and details about a secret facility where I was built. Additionally, there are coordinates to a Sith Temple."
Ahsoka leaned forward, her voice tense. "A Sith Temple? What else do you know about this location?"
Eleven went silent for a moment, the room's tension rising as it processed the information. "It appears to be connected to an ancient Sith, a member of the original Sith species who was found in suspended animation. The Empire remnants are attempting to awaken him. This Sith was a scientist in a research facility."
The revelation hung in the air, the weight of its implications sinking in. Ahsoka exchanged a look with Bo-Katan and Din, the urgency of the situation clear.
"This could be catastrophic," Ahsoka said, her voice steady but filled with concern. "If the remnants succeed in awakening this Sith, it could tip the balance of power in their favor."
Bo-Katan nodded, turning her attention back to Eleven. "Thank you, Eleven. Your information is invaluable. We will need to investigate this facility and ensure that the Sith is not awakened."
Eleven inclined its head, the gesture almost solemn. "I am at your service. I will assist in any way I can."