evolution-500: Lobo is a character I don't have the most knowledge on. This could be my own ignorance, but based on what I've seen of him over the years I don't think Lobo is a deep compelling character aside from being a fun one. I have been thinking about a Batman Beyond/Avengers fic but I don't know if I should go through with it.

And I've never played Killer Instinct before so I can't write anything centered around that series. Though I am working on another Street Fighter/Tekken fic, I'm just debating if I have it in me to write five stories currently.

A wooden crate exploded against the wall of the safehouse that Metallo was hiding in. The right side of his face was scrunched with rage at the failure of the recent arms deal. Though truthfully, he was the one getting the short end of the stick of it. Bane was the only who truly got what he wanted out of this, leaving Metropolis and returning to Gotham with the weapons he gave him. Not only that he couldn't retrieve the money he was owed.

He needed that money! And now there's no way for him to get it back!

He slammed his fist on the nearby wall, putting his hand through it. His angered face slowly became a defeated one as he slumped down to the ground on his knees. It was hopeless. He didn't have much time left, and his only chance of getting help by buying his way to get to get it wasn't going to work now!

He then frowned heavily, the only plan he could think of that came to mind. It was risky but it was his only chance.

Logan jolted up from his couch, growling wildly with his arms spread out and tense with claws out. He looked around frantically only to relax when he saw that he had fallen asleep in his living room. He also noticed his television was still playing and the boxing matches must've ended when he drifted to sleep during the eighth round. Now the news was broadcasting and for once it wasn't about the public outcry against the Justice League. It was covering a short blonde haired businesswoman who was announcing that her company has made improvements for the militaries weapons systems with their newly developed software.

She even looked familiar despite her massive bust. It seemed that the news anchor couldn't keep his eyes from looking at them. The only thing keeping his eyes on her face was when she asked his opinions on the matter.

Calming down, his claws returned back into his knuckles and ran his hands over his face. A frustrated shaky breath drew out of his mouth. More nightmares, and they were becoming more frequent. Logan couldn't help but lurch forward from his seated position and dig his fingers even more into his face in vain attempt to dig into his skull and remove the dreams from his own brain. Even his zazen exercises weren't helping him as much.

It only made Logan wish Charles or Jean were here so they could use their telepathy to do just that.

He looked at his opened hand for a few moments and closed it. Logan's face became pained as the one permanent solution to his problem came to him. He slowly brought his fist towards the underside of his chin. Taking in a deep breath and readied for what was to come.

A small beep blared throughout the room making him snap his attention to the nightstand next him. Logan glared angrily at the JL communicator, whoever was calling most likely needed him for either monitor duty or assistance on a mission. Whatever it was he wasn't in the mood to deal with it right now. Every fiber inside him was telling him to cut it in half and leave him alone.

"Logan for both our sakes...answer it." A calm voice pleading him to not go along with the act. A hand grabbed his wrist and gently lowered it.

His face became stunned as the familiar voice filled his ears. Logan sharply swiveled his head back around to see none other than Charles Xavier. A pleading look on his middle aged face urging him to pick up the call.

Wolverine's stunned expression became a defiant one as he looked into the eyes of the man who was once his teacher. He held it as best he could at the bald telepath, silently telling him to go away and that he wasn't going to answer it. And if he didn't like it, he can go to hell.

Though like him Charles didn't let up and held onto that kind, but stern look he was known for. It was the same look he would give him whenever he was losing faith in not only the world and people but ultimately himself.

Eventually he slowly relented. The paraplegic telepath breaking past his guarded defenses as he placed the commlink in his ear. Logan heaved a sigh as he answered.

"Yeah?"

"Logan, it seems that favor I need you for came sooner than I expected." Superman said from the other end. "Do you remember Metallo? The cyborg that was part of the arms deal at the pier in Metropolis?"

"Rings a bell..." He scratched his head as he recalled whom the Kryptonian was referring to. "What about him?"

"There was break in Lexcorps main laboratory and some of their top staff have been kidnapped." He informed him with the small amount of intel he had. "He most likely took them to one of many old safehouses that were constructed by led so..."

"You want me t' sniff 'em out so it can lead us to him, right?"

"Essentially, yes." He confirmed.

Wolverine rubbed his eyes with a tired sighed, still reeling from the nightmare he just had. He didn't want to deal with this right now. However he could feel Charles's gaze boring into him as he knew what he wanted him to do.

"When d'ya wanna meet up?"

"The authorities are at the scene now so its best we meet as soon as possible." Superman replied though he hesitated to continue. After a moment he acted against his better judgement and did so. "But...Logan are you feeling alright? You sound...very distraught."

Wolverine blinked at what he just heard. He didn't even notice how hoarse his voice sounded.

"Listen I can handle Metallo myself if you aren't-"

"Just gimme a couple o' minutes and I'll be there." He sharply interrupted while simultaneously heavily clearing his throat before the Kryptonian could finish his attempt at trying to get him to sit this mission out.

He didn't give Superman a chance to try persuading him again before shutting off the call. Not wasting anymore time Logan slapped his thighs and stood up to head to his room and prepare for his meeting with The Man Of Steel.

The man suddenly stopped halfway at the door, he could feel his teacher and friend piercing eyes on his back. Logan raised his head and closed his eyes, sucking in a heavy breath. "I'm tryin' my damndest Chuck. Lord knows you of all people know that I am."

"That I certainly do Logan. But I sense that your willingness to help your new allies is beginning to waver."

The professors perceptive comment made him lightly clench his fist, bearing the brunt of the weight of the truth of those words.

"Y'know what I never understood?" Logan asked Charles with a mocking guffaw in his voice. He turned his head slightly to look at the mutant telepath over his shoulder with a sad grin. "How can someone like you ever believe that someone like me can ever be what you dreamed for the world? Even now yer still lookin' at me with that sense o' hope like there's still a future fer me after knowin' that I ruined what you built!"

"What I don't understand is that after all these years you are still convinced that you don't deserve one." He argued back with clear conviction in his voice. Not wanting him to sink even more into self depreciation than he already has. "As well as the fact that you still believe that you aren't a good man."

The short burly man whirled around to face Charles completely. A baleful look of rage was shown as he stormed up to him, slamming the palms of his hands on the armrest of the wheelchair and loudly bellowed directly into his face.

"BECAUSE I AIN'T ONE!"

Both men just held their ground with the two equally keeping their gazes heavily locked. Logan was heaving very heavily. His face was flushed red and canines gritting against each other from his outburst. He could even hear his neighbors throughout his apartment wondering where the thundering voice came from. Why is Professor Charles Xavier, the very man who assembled the X-Men would still believe that the very man who slew them was still someone he considered a good man.

This is what he could never get about Charles! How can someone be so idealistic and still see the light within everyone after showing that they are beyond saving?! The fact that he allowed an animalistic killing machine on a team whose main goal was for peace always made Logan question whether he was blindly naive or insane.

The telepath didn't break his gaze from Logan's, eyes never wavering in the slightest. Whether it was because the Charles in front of him wasn't real or maybe it was because this was how he remembered him as. A man who never allowed his beliefs to be shaken.

"And you have shown me time after time that your willingness to prove those who perceived you as nothing but a wild savage otherwise." He firmly reminded him. "Even here you are doing just that what me and the other X-Men have always encouraged you to be even when you never wanted to believe it."

The only thing Logan could do was try to get his breathing under control as he was still seething with anger. Xavier took his silence as an opportunity to continue his point. Those this time he spoke more gently while holding his assertive tone.

"If you believed that then you would've departed from us a long time ago, but you didn't. Even now you can resign from the Justice League anytime you wanted but you haven't."

Wolverine managed to relax after processing everything Charles had to say. He mildly frowned and slumped his head, then shook it with a heavy sigh. Always still trying to see the good in everyone when there was nothing left.

"Yer wrong about me. Always have been."

Pushing himself up Logan walked towards his room so he could suit up and meet up with Superman.

"Logan!"

He stopped halfway in hallway keeping his back to the man. His heavy guttural grunt though indicated he was listening.

"Please try to hold onto whatever shred of hope I know still have, even if it is just a sliver." Charles gently pleaded, hoping words will reach him. "I know that it isn't completely given it up. You wouldn't have carried on until now otherwise."

Logan didn't offer any form of a rebuttal to any of Charles pleas. He just opened the door to his bedroom to get ready.

"And that's all he took? Just the tech and medical staff?" Lois questioned, jotting down everything she was told on her notepad.

"Not just the tech and medical staff, my top tech and medical staff!" Mercy clarified with evident frustration at the ransacked laboratory.

The entire place was a complete wreck. Destroyed equipment, man sized whole in metal walls, and many more. Police and investigators asking the other remaining staff questions regarding the incident. Jimmy was continuously flashed pictures at everything he could see per Lois's orders. So far, all the conclusive evidence that they gathered pretty much said that the culprit was Metallo. Not to mention the security footage.

What they were trying to figure out was why the top-level staff at Lexcorp were kidnapped by the cyborg criminal. What reason could he really need them for?

"Billions of dollars worth of laboratory equipment down the drain and not to mention my best employees have been kidnapped." Lex's former chauffeur stated, looking around the ransacked area and stepping over a chunk of metallic debris. "I'll have to contact their families and let them know what happened."

Lois glanced up from her notepad, hearing how soft spoken her voice became when she said that last part. The brunette reporter could see the genuine care for the safety of her employees well being in the womans eyes. Given her long career, she had picked up a few things when trying to find the dirt on many things. One of them was reading those she interviewed, and Lex Luthor was of the many she couldn't pin down. He would always put on an "honest" smile when discussing his "legal" business dealings or when there were attempts in his life. Which were understandable now that she was looking back on it.

Mercy on the other hand displayed an honest sense of care. Not only for those who worked under her but for the people of Metropolis as a whole. While the city had been thriving even when Luthor essentially owned Metropolis through Lexcorp it was because of dirty means. Now the city growing is through an honest one. Lois knew it was a slow process given that she knew Mercy had to deal with company executives who no doubt was more supportive of Lex's methods. Thankfully she was still hanging in there.

"That won't be necessary, Miss Graves."

Everyone turned to see none other than Superman entering through the hole on the top floor. They all lit up with smiles at the sight of the blue and clad hero, especially the red haired photographer.

"It's a good thing you arrived Superman." The police officer greeted, shaking his hand firmly. "With you here, this investigation will go a hell of a lot faster."

"I can't say that I'll be able to speed up that process, but if we all work together, we'll be able to get this done quickly."

They all nodded at his suggestion. People were counting on them, so they needed to work fast and efficiently.

"Have any you found anything that can help us in tracking down Metallo and the hostages?"

"The only piece of evidence we can give you are the two massive holes in the walls where Metallo got in and the areas where some of the equipment was stolen." The PI gestured at the damaged walls where the cyborg criminal made it his entry and exit points. "There are still some eyewitnesses around that no doubt saw everything happen. Unfortunately, it shook them up so terribly of how it all went down. We couldn't get anything out of them, maybe with you here they'll talk."

Superman nodded and went over to question the Lexcorp employees while Wolverine got to work by trying to pick up any scent he could find in the atmosphere in the sterile lab. Though this occurred hours before from what he was told his nose could still try find whatever residual scents that were still here.

Checking one of the dimly lit rooms that had looked like a tornado ran through it, Wolverine could see smoldering walls that Metallo had blasted to get inside the areas he needed to breech. It probably wasn't worth focusing on, but The Feral Mutants nose was telling him different.

Kneeling down he picked up a small piece of melted metal Wolverine sniffed it. He could detect the traces of charred burnt metal and of course remains smoke but there was something else underneath it all that made him flare his nostrils harder. It was feint but still there, whatever it was it was probably some concentrated laser that did this.

Raising his head, he saw the large hole in front of that was melted. Wolverine stood up and gave a hard look at the scorched edges of the hole. He could see a green tint on the inner walls. He inched his nose towards it and took in a large whiff and scrunched in slight disgust at the powerful blow to his senses.

'Hmmm...smells almost radioactive...or maybe some type of radiation...?' He mused in curiosity.

It was an unfamiliar scent that he had never smelled before. The stench is undoubtedly strong, so strong that it practically filled the air. Whatever fuel he used as an energy source to get through the building was very potent.

Wolverine allowed his nose to move him toward a more linear trail of the odor. It was the only shot him and Superman had to locate the hostages.

A blinking flash lit the entire room, followed by another one that made him look over shoulder to the young red haired man from earlier. He was repeatedly taking snap shots of him.

"You mind kid?! I'm workin' here!" He harshly exclaimed.

The photographer looked stunned at the yellow and blue clad mans brusque words, stopping his picture taking. Most heroes that he met usually didn't mind being on the front page.

"O-oh uh, sorry, sir!" He stammered. "My editor and chief usually prefer the photo shots of heroes being active in the field."

"Then why the hell're ya takin' standin' here takin' pics o' me when the leagues golden boy is in the other room?"

The boy scratched his head and had a confused look on his face. "...You are a hero, aren't you? You wouldn't be helping Superman if you weren't."

Wolverine snorted incredulously at the boy's statement. Before he could even make a rebuttal, Lois stepped into the room. The veteran reporter gestured her head out of the room.

"What are you doing here, Jimmy? Unless you want tearing out from Perry for taking photos without any good lighting, I suggest you head over to where there is some."

"But this camera is the new model. It should be able to capture quality pictures even in dark roo-"

He stopped talking when he saw Lois giving him that glaring look. The look that she would give him that would always tell him not argue with your senior co worker and just do what they say.

Gulping Jimmy nodded fervently and turned to leave. "Right, to the room with bright lighting it is then." He left and murmured a "man that guy sure is a jerk" under his breath, unaware that Wolverine heard it clearly with his heightened hearing and resisted urge to chew him out for that.

Lois turned to the man with a disapproving frown. "Would it kill you to be a little less of an ass? I thought superheroes were supposed to be upstanding."

"You could say that I'm breakin' that tradition." He remarked while continuing tracing the trail of that unusual scent.

The brunette just shook her head. She thought her father was a hard ass but apparently Wolverine might have him beat in that department. She just watched him roam around the room, sniffing the air. While it was weird to see she supposed it wasn't the strangest thing she has seen throughout her career as a journalist.

"You and big blue been givin' it to each other long?"

Lois blinked owlishly at that foward question and sputtered. "E-excuse me?!"

"You heard me." He said casually as if his words weren't at all insensitive. "Figured there was somethin' goin' on between you two when me and you first met. And seein' you both sendin' each other goo goo eyes when we came into the building pretty much told me what I needed t' know."

The brunette crossed her arms and shot him a disapproving gaze. "He's my husband. Not that it's any of your business."

"Ya ain't wrong 'bout that." He shrugged.

Not continuing the matter of Superman' and Lois's life of marriage any further than that Wolverine continued to let his nose guide him to where the trail of the odor in the building so he could use it to help him find where Metallo had used an exit point.

"So...that nose of yours pick up anything yet?" Lois asked, following behind the man down the hall of the tech lab floor.

"Yup." He sped up his pace as the as the scent was finally leading him somewhere. Lo and behold there was another of the many man-sized holes. Though this one lead to the outside and to the city's streets below. Taking a long and huge whiff the scent that he was following was a good distance away from where they are. Glancing down Wolverine spotted an indentation on the ground level.

Reaching up to his communicator, Wolverine contacted his partner. "Superman get yer ass over here! I got the junk heaps trail."

"Got it! I'm on my way."

Sighing he ended the call and waited for Superman so they could get a move on. Leaning his forearm on the damaged wall Wolverine looked out of it with narrowed lens and again sniffed the air, slightly wondering what it was he was smelling. It sure as hell wasn't gamma radiation, so what is it?

"Its Wolverine, right?"

He glanced to his left at the woman standing with hands on her hips, eyeing him with unexplained interest.

He grunted an "mhm" with an arched eyebrow.

"Well, seeing as how we don't have time to chat at the moment. How about once you save those hostages, I get an inter-"

"Pass." He quickly interrupted, turning down her suggestion.

Lois's lower jaw went slack. She had to stop herself from sputtering at his refusal for an interview.

"Huh, I think that's the first time a costumed hero turned down my offer for an interview..." She said in stunned surprise. "Usually most if not all of them would jump at the chance for one."

"I ain't a big fan o' the press." The Feral Mutant answered with a shrug. "And if you were thinkin' 'bout askin' me any questions in regards with the global mistrust that the League has now sorry t' say but I don't got anything for ya."

Lois was a little disappointed at that but respected his decision. It looked like he didn't enjoy having cameras in his face and being on the evening news. There hasn't been one superpowered in individuals in tights that she hadn't interviewed about the inside happenings of the superhero community. Whether it be the difficulty nature of their job, meaningless gossip about their love lives, and more.

Though as of recently, most people are becoming less interested in the new about the heroic accomplishments of the League due to Lex Luthor's fear mongering narrative that he was spinning. Lois had been trying everything she could to not allow allow the citizens of Metropolis to fall prey to believing in the slander. The tabloids she wrote kept the positive outlook on the Justice League but unfortunately some were swayed by Luthor. The populace of Metropolis was split on the matter. Thanfully her co-workers at the Daily Planet fully supported their efforts.

After everything Superman has done for them how could they not?

'If it wasn't for you keeping that hope alive in us Smallville I'd be scared to think that everyone in Metropolis would be a mindless Luthor led drone.'

They turned towards the sounds of echoing footstep and Superman walking down the ruined lab alongside Jimmy and Mercy.

"Looks like we're all set. Do you have his exact location?"

"A few clicks north from what I'm gettin'." He gestured his head in the general direction they needed to go. "Best bet is where his safehouse is."

"Right!" The Kryptonian nodded before looking at Mercy. "You have my word that we'll return them safely and without any harm."

"I know you will. And if any of them ask for a raise after working under unexpected and hostile conditions tell them to find another tech firm."

"I'll...keep that in mind." He said confusedly before turning to Lois and Jimmy. "I'll contact you once we deal with Metallo and secure the hostages. I want you and Jimmy to remain here with the authorities until we give you all the signal to head over there."

Both of them gave a nod to Superman's instructions, but it was obvious that his words were directed more at Lois. His stern gaze was settled on her the most as he spoke every brunette reporter gave her husband a massive roll of her eye at his constant insistence of keeping her out of sight of the action. How can she do her job well if he is always trying to her safe?

She conceded with a nod. Jimmy gave him a bright grin and a two finger salute.

Grabbing his companion the duo flew out and headed to their destination.

Mercy had a knowing smile on her face the entire time she watched them fly out. "Your gonna go after them aren't you?"

"You know me too well." Lois cheekly said, motioning for the junior to follow her. "Come on Jimmy. We've got a flying red and blue man to catch up with."

Jimmy opened his mouth to protest but frowned lamely. He should know by now at this point that Lois wasn't going to listen to him about getting into the middle of a scuffle between a powerful alien superhero and a cyborg. He shrugged and went after her, hoping that his newly bought camera intact.

"Down there!" Wolverine pointed below at what was an abandoned factory. The two landed in front of it.

They could already see that there were signs of this being Metallo's temporary hideout. The semi truck being parked near it was a dead giveaway. No doubt it was used to carry the equipment that was stolen and the hostages.

What confirmed it even more was the fact that Clark couldn't see the inside of the place. The dilapidated building was comprised of lead metal, which didn't surprise him. What did slightly was the complex itself.

"This place used to be one of Lexcorps old robotic manufacturing factories." He explained, narrowing his eyes at the companies old logo on the building that was eroding with age. "I guess the city officials haven't had the opportunity to demolish this place just yet."

"Well, well, lucky us." Wolverine sardonically uttered, stepping up in front of the facilities wall.

He popped his claws and reared his arms back, preparing to carve open an entrance. His actions were halted by Superman, who quickly grabbed his wrist before he could do anything.

Looking back at him questioningly Superman shook his head his head vehemently in protest. "Normally I'm all for the direct approach. But considering that we don't know the amount of people inside Metallo could try to severely harm one of them if he catches any notion that we're here."

Logan growled out in slight frustration but begrudgingly realized that he was right. They truly didn't know how many were captured. Not to mention that since Superman couldn't use his X-ray vision to glimpse within the factory, they didn't know how they were being held. Any type of announcement of their presence could get the hostages killed.

"Then what do you suggest?"

The Kryptonian answered his inquiry by setting his blue eyes ablaze with red light. Superman focused his burning gaze on the wall in front of them. Seconds later it was slowly beginning to glow with high degrees heat and melt.

Wolverine couldn't help but arch his single brow up and be impressed. He had seen Superman's heat vision first hand when he reduced a meteorite to nothing but ash. Also how he rallied his team like a natural born leader during that crisis.

Just like...

"AHHH!" A loud cry of pain from Superman was heard, bringing him out of his thoughts.

A look of shock appeared on Wolverine's face as he saw the Kryptonian get struck by a concentrated green energy beam that blasted through the door and knocked Superman off his feet. Rushing over to him, Wolverine knelt down and inspected him. The mans chest was surprisingly singed with a high degree of burns.

The Feral Mutants eyes furrowed in confusion and astonishment. What the hell was that?! Never before has he seen anything injuring the man's body. Wolverine slowly traced his hand along the wound. It didn't look severely bad from what he could see.

He also took note of the of that same distinct smell that was permeating from his would. It was the scent he was trailing.

Superman's entire body jolted awake and groaned im pain. Again, Wolverine was shocked at the sight. Who could've thought that the one and only Superman could feel pain.

"You alright?" He asked carefully.

A strained laugh came of his mouth. "I'd be lying if I said otherwise."

The mans eyes slowly opened, and they appeared sickly. Bags were forming under them, along with Superman's breathing becoming heavily haggard. He groggly sat up, clutching his chest as Wolverine tried to steady him.

The wall of the factory burst open, revealing the one they've been trailing throughout the city. Metallo stepped out slowly towards the two, kryptonite heart glowing brightly.

The cyborgs metallic lower jaw jutted up and down in mocking laughter. "I was wondering when you'd show up."

Tranforming his hand into a mallet, Metallo launched it forward as it became an extended appendage that was able to reach a very great distance. The cylinder shaped weapon struck hard at Wolverine's sternum. An audible grunt came out as was he knocked back from the blow.

The mallet hand then shaped itself into an open clamp. It grabbed Superman tightly around his throat and lifted him high in the air. A strained groan came through his clenched teeth as he tried to pry it off. Unfortunately, the kryptonite shard embeded in his body made his muscles heavy and weak.

The cyborgs metallic lower jaw jutted up and down in mocking laughter. "I was wondering when you'd show up."

Tranforming his hand into a mallet, Metallo launched it forward as it became an extended appendage that was able to reach a very great distance. The cylinder shaped weapon struck hard at Wolverine's sternum. An audible grunt came out as was he knocked back from the blow.

With one final slam the cyborg retracted his arm, pulling the worn down man close to him. Superman tried to retaliate by hitting the cyborgs arm so he could release him but his fists might've been smalls taps. He could barely lift his arms to gather enough strength to at least punch or shove him off. And not to mention the massive chunk of kryptonite nestled in Metallo's chest chassis was making his chances of fighting back even more difficult. He was starting to already feel feint, his eyes were glazing over and began rolling far in the back of his head as he slipping into unconsciousness.

And soon death.

Metallo glanced over his shoulder to see the Lexcorp scientist within the factory watching the battle with fear and worry in their eyes. He didn't have his synthetic skin, but one could imagine a twisted smile would be stretching on his face as he tightened his grip around the blue and red clad heroes throat.

"If any of you want to live to see another paycheck from your boss, I suggest you all get back to work." He threatened, making the captive scientist resume what they were doing.

"And as for you Superman." He flicked his other arm, coverting it a handgun with a single round insode. "Well...you know the answer, right?"

He pressed the barrel of the gun directly at his heart. His metal finger slowly inched at the trigger, ready to pull it.

He never got the chance as a heavy amount of weight landed on his back, follwed by a ferocious growl and six razor blades sinking deep in his back. The unexpected surprise attack made Metallo release his hold on Superman and fall face first in the ground.

Wolverine proceeded to aggressively slash and dig into the mechanical man to keep him pinned towards the ground. Superman tried crawling away in order to get some distance from the kryptonite that was already draining a large amount of his strength than the one in his chest was.

Before he could rain down another strike, the cyborg reached behind him and landed punch at Wolverine's face. It disorientated him a little, giving Metallo enough time to rise to his feet and grab by the face and throw him over his shoulder.

Skillfully landing on his feet, the Feral Mutant hunched his posture, taking on his predatory like stance with his canines barred. Practically being a protective between him and Superman. For some reason he was struggling to get back on his feet. Whatever it was, he needed to keep him out of the fight for the time being.

"I've seen you before..." Metallo recalled, pointing his chromed finger at the one who got him from behind. "You were at the dock along during the arms deal with that brat and Wonder Woman!"

The fierce look on Wolverine's face became a taunting shark like smirk. "Yeah, I was there. I also remember Wonder Woman thoroughly kickin' yer rusted tail across the shippin' yard."

His kryptonite powered optics flashed brighter in anger at the insult. If it wasn't for this hairy runt, he wouldn't be in this situation!

"She did! And you pretty much helped her in doing that." He raised his gun directly at him. "Which means you have a lot to pay me back for!"

Wolverine tensed but rushed him anyway. He could take a bullet or two as the scrap heap will soon learn.

The cyborg then redirected his aim slightly at the left. It only took a second for Logan to realize what he was doing before he fired the shot. The pained grunt and heavy thud made him skid to a halt and turn around. A look of surprise appeared on his face, seeing Superman once again flat on the ground. Wolverine felt a huge wave of dread at the pit of his gut at seeing him coughing out specks of blood.

A low cruel chuckle was heard from the cyborg. "Gets him every time."

The sight of his fallen ally made the heavy feeling in Wolverine's grow even more. He couldn't understand why this was happening in the midst of a battle, but it was nonetheles.

That's when he saw something that made his whole body shake with massive trepidation to a point where he struggled to keep his fingers curled in his fist. The one who was lying on the ground unmoving wasn't Superman himself. In his place was someone far more underserving in The Feral Mutants mind.

In his place was the leader of the X-Men Scott Summers, Cyclops.

His rival and friend laid at his feet with a clear gunshot wound on his chest near the heart. In a split second, that feeling of dread and trepidation became something more antagonistic and vengeful. It boiled so hard inside that he couldn't keep it contained.

A growl soon became an ear piercing roar that was heard throughout the area near the factory as he bolted towards Metallo. Everyone who was in hearing range had felt the power in it through their bones. Even Metallo felt that he couldn't move.

He should've because Wolverine had already launched himself towards the cyborg, three claws from his left fist aligned with his face. In a single swipe his head was cut clean off from his shoulders as it flew his high in the air and tumbled on the ground like a disposable pile of trash.

Logan could feel his inner beast revel in his anger towards his now downed enemy. He calmed himself in an attempt so he wouldn't feed off anymore of his hostile emotions.

He rushed over to Superman and checked to see if he was still alive. Kneeling down, Wolverine traced his finger along the green shard embedded in his chest. Whatever it was, it had penentrated his nearly invulnerable skin. Up until this point, he didn't think anything could harm the invicible Superman.

Judging from where the wound is, he mostly likely got him in the heart.

The realization made him hang his head low with a heavy sigh and heart. This all confirmed what he always told himself. He was never cut out to be a hero, considering all he did was get his teammates killed. All he had to do was dive into the line of fire but he didn't. He was having a good run but he supposed his bad luck was going to catch up to him eventually. It always did.

Wolverine rose his hand to his communicattor so he can report in leader of the Leagues deat-

A hand shot out a grabbed hold of his wrist, stopping him from reaching his ear piece. An expression of shock was upon Wolverine's face as he looked down at the man whom he thought had died was smiling with blood running down his lips.

"I would appreciate it if you wouldn't do that. I'm not ready to put everyone through another funeral procession on my behalf."

Getting out of his surprised stupor Logan immediately sat Clark up gently. "Feelin' alright?"

"I'd be lying if I said I was, but I'll live." He replied with a groan, his hand instinctively going to his chest and clutching it tightly due to the aching pain. "Are the hostages still..."

"Yeah, their ok."

Superman nodded and turned his head at him. "And Metallo?"

He was about to answer that but a loud angry cry prevented Logan from voicing his response. "DIE YOU FREAKING RUNT!"

The two men looked up and saw that their cybernetic enemy had leapt himself into the air and fired a concentrated beam of kryptonite energy from his heart at them. Superman acted quickly by shoving Wolverine out of the way and shot out a highly powerful beam of his heat vision that clashed with Metallo's.

The Kryptonian gritted his teeth as he tried to exert every ounce of his energy he could to push him back, but his weakened body was already making it difficult. It didn't take long for the stalemate to not be in his favor, the radiated beam from Metallo was already making his heat vision give ground.

Eventually Superman couldn't keep it up anymore, the heated beam was now being pushed back. Metallo loudly cackled as he dove towards Superman and Wolverine at moderate velocity. Wolverine eyes widened in fear at the inevitable clash as soon as he landed on them. When he did a huge explosion rocked the area, making the capured hostages scream in terror.

The sound of light echoing splashes made Wolverine groan back into consciousness. His eyes slowly opened for him to see that laying face first on a large slab of concrete.

Groggily lifting himself up, he shook his head and got a good look at his surroundings. It was dark, though the light from above made everything clear for him. The sound of crumbling pebbles followed by a small splash of water made Logan cast his gaze upward at a hole with the moonlight shining down on him.

It didn't take long for him to realize that he ended up beneath the Metropolis's sewer network.

He rubbed his head and tried to remember how he ended up down here. 'Thought I tore that hunk o' junks head clean off, but I somehow he reattached it. Only cyborg I know that could do somethin' like that was Yuriko.'

He inspected himself and saw that the entire top half of his jumpsuit was ruined, no doubt from the explosion. His body must've suffered some severe damage from it, but thankfully it healed while he was knocked out.

"Ugh..." A low muffled moan was heard from some short distance away from where he was. Ahead Wolverine saw a blue sleeved arm sticking out from under piles of concrete.

Without a seconds hesitation he trudged through the thigh high leveled water to get to his teammate. Removing them Wolverine tried shaking him awake.

"Hey, Supes! Ya still with me?!"

After a few more attempts Clark came to. He took a good look at where they were and couldn't help but recoil from the obvious odor.

"Just terrific, out of the places we landed it had to be here." He complained as he sniffed his suit and nearly gagged from the repugnant stench coming off of it. "The smell is going to be a real pain to get out."

Not to mention he was definitely going to receive a lecture from Lois on how he needs to take better care of it. Especially when it comes to getting them soaked in city sewage.

Wolverine shrugged. "At least ya ain't gotta sensitive nose. Smellin' all types o' filth that I can't even begin t' describe."

"Heh, fair enough." He tried to pick himself up but his legs gave out as soon he tried to stand. Before he fell completely Wolverine held him up before he could. "Thank you."

"Don't mention it." He wrapped Superman's arm around his shoulder, acting as his leverage of support. The Feral Mutant then looked up at their only escape route from their current position. "Think you can fly us outta here?"

Clark tried to hover them in midair and take flight. Unfortunately, he could only get both of them up to where the tips of their toe touched the surface of the water. Superman let out a strained groan as he tried to get higher in the air. His eyes closed tightly and a bead of sweat trickled down his brow just from the simple effort of just trying to get off the ground.

He couldn't keep them in the air any longer, dropping towards the ground and kicking up small splashes of water around them. Wolverine tried to maintain his balance and kept the weakened Kryptonian leaning on his shoulders.

"Well, that answers that question." Superman said exhaustedly.

Wolverine growled in irritation at their only means of an exit was out of their reach. "Guess we're gonna have t' get outta here the hard way."

He nodded in agreement. "Looks that way. And we should get out of here before Metallo wakes up and makes things even harder for us."

"Pretty sure that kamikaze stunt he did on us means he won't." Logan said, motioning his head at the scattered mechanical parts littered around them.

"Actually your wrong because its only matter of time before he self repairs himself." Superman corrected him, pointing at the dismantled pieces. "And if we stay here finding a way out of here is going take unnecessary longer than it should."

True to his word Wolverine saw that he was right. The metal limbs were slowly gathering towards each other in order to form an entire body. He cursed under his breath at the situation they and solution to it was clear. He didn't like the idea of running from a fight but with Superman's current condition they needed to get out of these sewers and locate the exit latter.

With that thought in the mind the two silently came to a decision to search for a way out. At least before Metallo regained consciousness.

The two had been trekking for the past hour from what felt like to them. So far, they were nowhere near close to anything that could lead them out of here. Navigating through the tunnels was proving to be a challenge. The pipes that made up the underground network were made of lead, meaning once again Superman couldn't rely on his x-ray vision. It's just another thing he should thank Lexcorp for.

And although Wolverine's keen predatory sight could guide them through the dark tunnels, his lack of knowledge of its layout didn't help matters any easier. Though he made sure to leave claw marks on the walls just in case they got lost.

Pretty much they were rats in a maze with a snake on the hunt for them.

"Huh...and you convinced the entire world that those Elite guys were wrong?"

"I did. Granted looking back on it maybe I could've tried something a little less extreme that didn't result in nation wide panic." Superman lightly laughed.

Logan hummed as he listened to the man, the two had been walking for so long that they began to make idle chit chat. This is one of the rare moments that Superman could talk with the man whom Kara seemed to have taken a liking to from what she told him. After all, getting to know his teammates was something his position as a founding member allowed.

And also it helped to keep his mind off how his head was swimming.

It started off small with him asking Wolverine how he was fairing in his League assignments. His responses would result in a short ones, like he didn't think much of his heroic actions were worth talking about. Superman also brought up how he heard that not many took a liking to Wolverine, to which he replied with a "Most people never do". He certainly was a man of few words and did little to mince them.

Once Superman started talking about time when he fought a superpowered group called the Elites is when he really caught The Feral Mutants attention. He explained how they believed that way of going about ensuring that justice will prevail is if you're willing to only use lethal force. They had managed to convince the world that their way was the "true" way."Even when we completely lose faith in what we can be, in others, or what we once were there has to be even small shred of hope somewhere that can show us that we can still be better." Superman preached, his light tone gone now being resolute and unwavering. "And that is something I intend to hold onto until the day I die."

He just remained silent at the Kryptonians words and Logan knew that those were the ones of a staunched idealist. A man who would not break them for anything no matter how hard things got him. And given how he didn't hesitate or stutter Wolverine could feel that he was fully committed to his beliefs.

He glanced at him with a doubtful frown. "Ya think holdin' onto somethin' like that is worth it though? People now don't seem t' want the Leagues help anymore, guess they ain't as hopeful as you make 'em out t' be."

"It may seem that way now..." Superman said with a weak but bright smile. "But things tend to get better if we're willing to make it happen, wouldn't you agree?"

Wolverine couldn't help but lightly chuckle to himself in exasperation. How does he always manage to get mixed up with the boyscouts? "Whatever you say big blue."

The two continued on in silence, entering into one of the three way tunnels. Wolverine began to deeply contemplate about Superman's speech. His principles were great to live by, but Logan learned ago that life doesn't live up to the standards you set for yourself. And superheroes weren't exempt from this.

While he respected the moral footholds that they stood on many heroes fail to realize that sometimes that option doesn't always give good results. While Wolverine didn't agree with the Elites that it was only method and making the world believe that it was, he did agree that sometimes in order to achieve the greater good one needs to be willing to dirty their hands.

He wished it was simple but to bad. Life just didn't work in the you want it to.

"Do you mind...if we...stop for a second?" Superman suggested with in between breaths. "I just...need a quick breather."

Stopping Wolverine surveyed their surroundings to see how far were and if they near an escape latter. Unfortunately there was nothing like that near them but thankfully it seemed like they got a good enough distance away from their pursuer for the time being.

The Feral Mutant set him down against the tunnel wall. Leaning his head back on the wall Clark closed eyes and heaved a slow long drawn out breath. Wolvering lowered himself to his knee next to him and examined the man closely. His skin was clammy with sweat like he was coming down with a fever, eyes were unfocused and unfocused with bags forming under them, and his body was swaying like all of his energy was completely sapped out of his body.

"Alright bub, what the hell's wrong with ya?" He asked directly though with great concern. "Yer heavin' like you had a few too many hard ones."

Superman couldn't but let out a humorous laugh at his somewhat accurate description of the symptoms he was feeling. He tapped the green crystalized rock lodged in chest, grabbing Wolverine's attention to it. "See this? Its called kryptonite. Its a radioactive rock fragment that severely weakens Kryptonians."

So that explains why he was taken out of the fight against Metallo. Not to mention where that strong scent had came from at the lab.

Raising his fist, Wolverine popped his index claw. "I ain't a surgeon but I think I can get it out."

Superman however shook his head. "Not that I don't trust you Logan, but we can't risk that. One mistake on your part and the kryptonite could cut my heart, killing me."

A frustrated grimace made its way to the shorter mans face as he stopped the sharp tip of his claw by mere inches from coming into contact with the kryptonite shard. He then felt a sudden flash of horror hit him as he realized something. He was this close to nearly killing the man who was his teammate. His teammate...

Wolverine quickly pulled his hand back with a look of horror in his eyes. Superman's brow furrowed in confusion at his reaction, but it then clicked in his mind as to why as to why he did.

He was about to console him when the sound of footsteps that came from around the corner made both men tense in alertness. Turning their attention towards it, they saw a bright light slowly coming their way. Superman nodded at Wolverine who understood the silent command. Rising to his feet, he pressed his back up against the wall and unsheathed his claws slowly. He then treaded quietly and carefully in order to maintain the element of surprise. Seeing as how the trail of light was moving slowly Metallo must not know they were here.

Eyes narrowing in anticipation and body tensing in readiness to strike Wolverine reached the end of the wall, waiting for the enemy to get closer. Mentally counting the seconds he jumped around the corner and roared loudly, arms stretched out with claws extended.

However, a fearful scream that he didn't expect to hear made Logan think twice about his attack. The tips of his adamantium claws were only inches from skewering the face of a red headed young man who was using his phone as a flashlight and with a look of sheer terror on his face.

"You?!" Wolverine exclaimed in surprise once he recognized the photographer from before. He stepped back and sheathed his claws. "The hell're you doin' here?"

Jimmy tried to get his words out, but all he could get out were stuttering sputters. Thankfully, he didn't have to since a more confident voice spoke up. "What we usually do. Throw ourselves into dangerous situations in order to get something that can make the front page."

Behind the frightened red haired young man was none other than the Daily Planets top journalist Lois Lane was standing behind the young boys left. She had somewhat of a frightened expression on her face, but she had a better handle on it than he did.

Maybe it was because of the handgun she was pointing at him with.

There was another woman with them, one whom he didn't recognize. She looked to be the same age as Lois. Her hair was light brown and was fastened in a bun. She wore rectangled rimmed specs over her eyes. Completing her look was a white coat over a buttoned blue blazer, along with a matching skirt and heels. She was obviously one of the captured scientists.

"And you?" He asked the unknown woman with a raised brow. Questioning she chose to come down here where she could be killed.

"W-well I came because I need to you and Superman something important." She said with stutter once Wolverine's eyes landed on her. "And also I wanted to offer my own help in stopping Metallo."

Superman's words echoed in Logan's mind once he heard the woman express her willingness in wanting to help them. And that was all it took for her to tag along with Lois and Jimmy. Wolverine felt a little lighter in knowing that Superman had proven him wrong.

"Speaking of which, where is Superman?" Jimmy asked, having slightly calmed down from earlier.

Grunting The Feral Mutant motioned his hand for them to follow him. After a short couple of steps, they were all in shock to see the hero laid out on the wall. Lois holstered her firearm and ran to check to see if her husband was ok.

She gasped loudly when she spotted the kryptonite lodged in his chest. Gently placing her hand on it, she tried to get a feel for his heartbeat. She was relatively relieved to know that he was alive, but the rapid pacing of every beat didn't ease her worries. The brunette felt his larger hand atop of hers and saw that he was giving her an assuring smile to tell her that he was going to be alright. Lois returned it with an affirming nod. Kryptonite bullets haven't beaten him yet and they weren't going to start now.

"Whoa! Are you alright Superman?!" Jimmy worriedly said, seeing the radioactive rock in him.

He waved his hand dismissively to ease his concerns. "It isn't as bad as it looks. If it wasn't for Wolverine, I'd been in a much worse position than I am now."

They turned turned to said man who was leaning on the opposite wall with his arms crossed with his usual hardened scowl.

Lois couldn't help but smile in gratitude at him. "Thank you for helping him. And for leaving those scratch marks, we wouldn't have found you guys if it weren't for you."

Jimmy smiled and nodded in agreement. The guy may be a jerk, but anyone who was willing to help Superman was a true hero in his book.

He shifted uncomfortably from where he stood. The looks of praise and admiration the two were giving him weren't meant for someone like him. If anything, he would prefer it if Lois gave him another verbal of how much of a jackass he was.

Ignoring whatever uneasy feelings he was having Wolverine decided to shift the topic to the reason why they had followed them. "Said that you need t' tell us something, right? Well, what is it?"

"Yes, we should." The woman said, all eyes now directly on her. "Superman, my name is Emily Crawford. Since we're short on time, I'll just skip directly to the point of why I'm down here." Everyone listened intently to Emily as she began her reasoning being here.

"I'm a top-level robotics engineer at Lexcorp. My colleagues and I were specifically picked by Metallo so we could build him another body."

This drew out a confused look from Lois, Jimmy, and Clark. "Why would he another body? His kryptonite heart provides him infinite amount power to last forever." Superman said, voicing out everyones curiosity.

"It should and still does. But does anyone know why he needed a robotic shell in the first place?"

Lois furrowed her eyes as she tried to remember those old files she read years ago when she snuck into Lexcorps archives. "If memory serves, he had some incurable disease, right?"

"Correct! And since then, he's been able to preserve his own life through cybernetic transplant surgery." She replied evenly, adjusting her glasses further on her nose. "It's worked out quite well so far for him so far."

They all caught on to that last piece of wording and how she whispered it. Whatever it entailed wasn't at all good for Metallo.

She sighed heavily and continued. "We've done scans on him and discovered that his terminal disease he had before hasn't been completely removed. All these years it's only been dormant in the only organic piece of him he has left inside that twisted metal shell of his. Now it's only a matter of time..."

Grim silence followed when Emily finished telling everything she knew. Metallo would soon die.

In all honesty no one knew how to feel about this. The cyborgs many attempts at trying to kill Superman that had gotten many innocents harmed and worse were difficult to ignore. Is it wrong to leave someone like him to such a cruel fate?

"Is there anything that can save him?" Superman being the first to ask making all of them turn to him, putting his negative inhibitions aside for his moral compulsion.

'Always trying to save anyone you can...even those who don't deserve it, aren't you Smallville?' Lois thought with clear admiration for her husband. Even though Metallo was responsible for putting him in this weakened state he was still willing to do what was right.

"No, I'm afraid there isn't." She answered, though her tone indicated that she wasn't the least bit sorry about his predicament. Understandable since she was held hostage by him.

Superman solemnly frowned as the revelation of his enemy's circumstances hit him hard more than the kryptonite had. He always tried to prevent the death of allies and foes alike. But it's like everyone kept telling him, you can't save everyone. If that was the case, then he needed to not only stop him but tell Metallo that his time was running short.

It's the least he could do. "Well, there's only one way we can settle this." Wolverine's statement made everyone turn towards him. The severe expression made them all tense in what he would suggest.

"Umm...what would that be?" Jimmy asked with apprehension in his voice.

"The only thing that makes the most sense." He raised his fist in front of his face and popped his claws, emphasizing his point.

Lois's eyes lit up in realization. She knew exactly what he was going to do. "You're going to kill him."

"What?!" Jimmy cried loudly with a shocked expression, almost forgetting that Metallo could've easily heard him. "You can't just do that! Aren't you supposed to be a superhero?"

"I am, but bein' one is somethin' I was never really good at." He pushed himself off the wall and took a couple of hard whiffs. "Can smell the kryptonite on him even, in here. He's close by so its only a matter o' time 'fore he finds us."

Not willing to debate whether or not its right to kill a man who was pretty much near his deathbed already Wolverine marched off to face Metallo and put an end to him permanently.

Jimmy on the other was still trying to process what he just heard from who someone was an active Justice League member. How could they let a guy like that join them in the first place?! He continuously ran his hands through his hair still trying to wrap his mind around what had come out of Wolverine's mouth.

"Does anyone else besides me have an issue with this?!" He turned and incredulously asked whoever thought that this is clearly wrong.

Emily just gave the boy a deadpan stare, not at all caring if Metallo was taken out for good or not. Lois had a conflicting look on her face. While she didn't fully agree with this she could understand where Wolverine was coming from. It just reminded her how Jimmy still has a lot learn.

"Wolverine, wait!"

Superman's call made him stop and look at him over his shoulder. The pleading expression on his face almost made him reconsider his decision. But he needed to stand firm on this.

"This why I told you and J'onny why you wouldn't want someone like me in yer group Superman." Logan reminded him, making the Kryptonian think back to the time when he and Martian Manhunter offered him a chance to become a member of the Justice League member. "I ain't the virtuous hero who can give a lesson on bein' the better person. I'm the guy who's willin' t' do the dirty work when others can't when there's no other choice."

He let those words hang in the air and allowed the reality of what his role was to slowly sink in for Superman. "I wouldn't blame ya if you thought any less o' me than you probably have. Hell, I'd be surprised if ya didn't already." He snorted. "l'll try t' keep him busy while you three get him outta here."

"His body is heavily reinforced to a point that not even a semi-truck can dent him. Are those knives in your hands even sharp enough?" Emily questioned with doubt in her voice. Having seen countless times how durable Metallo's body is.

"You better believe it lady. And since his whole body is just a machine and lacks a pumpin' heart, I'm guessin' that the only vital organ he's got is his brain, right?" The robotics engineer nodded in response. "Then all I gotta do is give him a lobotomy. Simple as that."

He wished it was that simple as he made it sound. While he has fought cyborgs before he has never encountered one that could match the strength and power of someone like Superman. It wouldn't be an easy fight, but he had to at least try and hold him off so that the others could get out.

With that Wolverine marched off to where Metallo was.

"Wolverine!" Superman once again called him, making The Feral Mutant nearly snap at him as he back to face him, Wolverine saw that while Superman's eyes were practically glazed over, he could still see traces of strength in them as he looked at him. He couldn't help but respect the mans strong will to not let the kryptonite do him in. "I know I can't stop you...but I know you'll do the right thing in the end."

The burning gaze of Superman was so palpable that Wolverine could feel it so strongly from where he stood. Did he really have that much faith in him?

Logan was silent, feeling an intense flutter well up within from Clark's assurance, believing that even after what he told him how he would deal with Metallo. His natural response would be to be disagreeable, but he found himself unable to. Maybe it was for the best that he believed that he would do "the right thing".

He nodded and ran off to face against Metallo.

"Who would've thought that after so long that you would learn the value of teamwork." A male voice out of nowhere said running beside him. It sounded amused though laced with a sense of satisfaction. Like he was proud about something. "It looks like those constant lectures I gave you finally paid off!"

"Yeah, guess you beatin' my head over with that garbage actually got me followin' along with it." He retorted with a humorous huff. "Or maybe you were just never good at doin' rallying speeches as much as ya thought ya were."

The two just laughed as they continued running down the long tunnel.

"So, why're you here? Tryin' t' appeal t' my conscience by talkin' me outta this."

Cyclops lightly chuckled. "I wish I could but that was something I was never really good at."

Wolverine lips dipped into a sad frown as the memories of old time played in his mind. "Never thought I'd live t' see the day when I would miss you givin' me orders."

"I wish I was still around to give them to you so you can tell me to go shove it." The leader of the X-Men confessed genuinely. "But that Superman guy seems to have a good handle on his group. I'd argue he's even better at it than I was."

"Yeah, no shit." He agreed before looking at the ruby quart visor of his friend with mournful and regretful gleam in his eyes. "But he ain't you slim."

"Your right he isn't. But even knowing that you still follow his and everyone else's commands without issue. I can rest easy knowing that I didn't fail an old lone wolf like you."

Feeling a lump building up in his throat Logan quickly turned his head away, tears starting to form in his eyes. No matter what form Cyclops would be in seeing him cry is the last thing he'd do.

"If I make it outta here, I'm give a round to ya when I get home Summers." The Feral Mutant swore with no intention of breaking it. Cyclops smiled wholesomely and patted his shoulder. He then disappeared, leaving Wolverine with a stronger reason to beat Metallo.

"Where the hell are they?!" Metallo exclaimed in rage, green lit optics franticly as he had been hunting the two men he fully intended to kill.

While Superman was on the top of that list, he really wanted to get his hands on that hairy runt first. No one mocks him like that unless they want to end up dead. And the fact that Superman was out of commission he would no doubt try to prevent him getting to him. That was fine with him. He could use an appetizer before going to the main course.

And when he's finally done with The Man Of Steel he can finally set his sights on the one man who was truly responsible for everything he was currently dealing with.

The president himself, Lex Luthor. Once his new his new body was ready, he would surely pay him a visit.

Coming up before him was a walkway leading up to a wide platform that was supported by a column. A low droning humming sound came from what looked like a massive power generator situated on it. Metallo assumed that he was underneath Metropolis's power plant. He had heard that since Lexcorp reestablished itself as a legitimate conglomerate they had partnered up with Wayne industries. With their combined Network of funds, they had hired the best technicians they could to build it.

Apparently, it's so state of the art that it can sustain power to the city for many years to come. How many years has yet to be said.

The cybernetic criminal was tempted to smash it and put the city in a state of a temporary power outage. He thought better of it, considering he was already wasting his time in this rotten sewer.

"This is the end o' line terminator."

Metallo swiveled around when he heard that voice. Standing behind was none other than Wolverine.

"How did you find where I was that easily?!" He asked in shocked surprise. This place was practically a maze, even with his "Its what I do pal!" He simply replied and didn't go into any further detail beyond that. "Now, we can settle this easily by you comin' with me and brigin' yerself in t' the boys in blue up top..."

He then squatted lower and hunched his posture in a predatorial stance. Arms at his sides taut followed by a "snikt" as he popped his claws. "...Or yer gonna be comin' with me in pieces o' scrap metal t' dump in the nearest junkyard!"

Metallo tilted his head. He needed a second to register what he heard. Did this little man just threaten to kill him?

The cyborg took a moment to get a good read on him. While his body was clearly tense and those knives of his were out, showing that he was ready for action, Metallo focused on his eyes. They didn't waver in the slightest when uttered those words to him, still maintaining that intense glare.

The cybernetic criminal knew in that instance that he wasn't joking. He would actually end him if he chose not to comply and come without any resistance on his part.

"Hehe, I didn't think that anyone in the Justice League had that amount of nerve." His words came out almost like he was complimenting him for willing to use lethal force to stop him. He configured his arms into a pickaxe and a spiked mace. "Honestly, its a nice change of pace from the usual!"

Metallo didn't waste any time by immediately going for Wolverine. He ran at him and raised both of augmented weapons above his head. He then brought them down with intent of impaling and crushing his head at the same time. It was all or nothing now! Only one of them was going to have the privilege of walking out of here.

Logan retaliated by doing same and charged him. Savagely roaring he caught the pickaxe in between his left clawed fist stopping Metallo's swing. Unfortunately, with the cyborgs greater strength he managed to push it the piercing tip inside his right pectoral muscle. This didn't stop Wolverine as he shoved his other clawed fist inside Metallo's abdomen.

He was about to lift him over his head and throw him off the platform, but his face was met with a hard-hitting blow from the cyborgs spiked mace hand. Wolverine grunted in pain from the hit, blood shooting out of his nose and as he was sent flying backwards. He instinctively used his claws to run along the metal floor to try and slowdown the speed of which he sent. He landed with a semi soft thud and skidded on the ground.

Sitting up Logan spat the glob of blood out of mouth. Rising to his feet he let out a mocking laugh while roughly running his forehand across his lip. "No wonder ya can't take down Superman. Coulda sworn that was a love tap you threw..."

Fuming with rage the cyborg threw out both of his arms which became extended as they tried to kill The Feral Mutant from a distance. The pickaxe arm came down, but Wolverine used the blunt side of his claws to parry. Then the spiked mace came for his head in which he ducked. Seeing no other choice that could get him in close Wolverine made a break for it towards Metallo.

The cyborg tried to stop him by whipping his arm around Wolverine in an attempt to prevent him closing the distance between them. With almost cat like agility, he skillfully avoided the cyborgs assaults. All it did was fuel his already burning anger as he couldn't seem to catch a single hit on the man.

Now within a reasonable distance Wolverine leapt and dove himself at his enemy. He threw his arms out at his sides and preformed a twirl, becoming a vertical sharp bladed tornado. He sliced Metallo's elongated arms in a single stroke rendering them useless. Landing he rolled to his feet just delivered a series of repeated slashes.

Growling with vigor Logan didn't let up for a single second as he tried to finish him off before his arm reattached themselves. Metallo lost his footing and fell on his back, claw marks practically everywhere on his artificial body. Seeing his opportunity Wolverine hopped from his position, arm cocked back and claws ready to go their intended target. The image itself truly resembled a wild animal about pounce upon its wounded prey.

Thinking quickly Metallo rolled sideways, narrowly missing having his head impaled. He kicked Wolverine hard in his ribs, knocking him into power generator. The Feral Mutant recovered quickly to see a metal fist coming at him. Ducking it went deep inside the machine, damaging it.

Wolverine rammed his shoulder into Metallo's midsection. He then secured his around him and sprinted forward making the cyborg stumble backwards. His back collided with the platforms railing, bending it.

Metallo raised his arms and did a double hammer slam on his exposed back. He was still holding on, so he did another one. And another one...and another one...and another while adding a knee to the sternum for good measure. His hold loosening with each blow as he dropped to his knee.

He wrapped his arms around the mans sides and hefted over his shoulders. Taking a running start, he jumped before hitting the ground with a power bomb slam. The force of it dropped through a series of platforms below stopping at the fifth.

Metallo stood over his battered body, twitching from landing from such a high drop. No doubt his internal organs were damaged along with many broken bones. The fact that he was still breathing was honestly a miracle.

Well unfortunately for him miracles don't last forever.

Gripping him by the throat the cybernetic menace lifted him up. His other arm formed a chainsaw.

"Well, you almost had me little man. But I'll make sure to tell Superman you put up a good fight."

Buzzing to life Metallo slowly ran his chainsaw down Logan's shoulder in an attempt to split open. Blood sprayed out onto his metallic face he cut through the skin and muscles. He wanted to take his time so he could feel every ounce of agony before the light faded from his eyes.

Or he would've when he felt the chainsaw couldn't even go past his clavicle. No matter how hard he tried he was with resistance on his bone that shouldn't be happening.

"W-why won't it cut through you?!" He demanded angrily, still trying to force the saw through but was met with the same result.

He heard a hoarse chuckle coming from the man he held by his throat. His eyes slowly opened and just looked at him with that same mocking look from before. "Lets just say you and Superman ain't the only Men O' Steel 'round here."

Rearing his arm back The Feral Mutant then pushed it forward with all of his might directly at the kryptonite core heart. The radioactive rock shattered as three adamantium claws plowed through the cyborgs chest and out the back.

Metallo's lower jaw dropped in shock and surprise. He was now falling to the floor as Wolverine had shoved his entire body weight into it, making topple on top of him.

Logan yanked his hand out of the chassis, spraying small remnants of kryptonite on the floor. He sat beside his defeated enemy taking in slow steady breaths. The fall he took had given him lots of internal bleeding, so he just needs his healing factor to work its magic.

"Well, would've thought that this how it ends for me. Beaten by a hairy runt like you."

Glancing down Wolverine saw that Metallo was still alive. Or he was alive for the number of minutes he has left before his body gives out on him.

"I don't why I kept trying to stay alive if this was where I was going to end up." Metallo bemoaned. "Should've just let the virus run its course instead of denying the reality that I wasn't going to be an out for me."

This made Wolverine furrow his brow at what he just heard. "You knew that the virus inside ya was gonna kill you anyway?"

Metallo silently nodded.

"Then why the hell were ya tryin' t' save yerself if it was pointless?" He asked, tilting his head in confusion.

He let out a hollow laugh. "Even a monster like me wants to hold onto life! Is it that strange to you that I want to have some hope that I want to keep living?"

He didn't have anything to say to that.

"Anyway, the point is I'm going to die." Metallo's stated with zero hesitation. No point in trying to hide from the fact. "But I won't die this my power shutting day or by the virus. So, there's only one option..."

He turned to Wolverine, silently requesting that he grant him his wish. The Feral Mutant knew what he wanted, and he was only one who could give it to him.

"Ya sure?"

He nodded.

Logan pressed his fist under the cyborg criminals chin. Ready to do the deed. "By the way, what's yer name?"

"...John Corbon. Yours?"

"Logan."

Just like before he knew that if he had a human face right now, it would be smiling. "Logan huh? I'll be waiting for you in hell."

Cold grim silence followed. And the only sound that was followed after was a "snikt".

The medic, the police, and the news reporters swarmed the factory. Whether it was checking to see if the hostages were unharmed or asking the questions on the events of tonight, it was that or the other. The medics asked Superman if he needed medical attention but declined their offer, saying he could get it aboard the Watchtower.

Wolverine just hung back from the prying eyes of everyone here, leaning on the factory wall with his arms crossed. He was also asked if he needed any medical treatment, but of course he told them he didn't need any.

"Wow, you weren't kidding when you said you didn't like entertaining the press!"

Glancing to his left Wolverine saw Lois walking up to him.

"Can't say that they would like me either." He said, he noticed that someone was missing. "Where's the kid?"

The investigative journalist pointed towards the crowd. "Over their taking photos. Told me that your grumpy disposition wouldn't make for good news clippings."

Wolverine just rolled his eyes. It was obvious that he made the young photographer uncomfortable.

A gurney was pulled up with Metallo's cybernetic shell, the brain still inside the head casing. Some of Lexcorps technicians were requested to come to the hospital so they could get Michael Corbon's brain in order to preserve it.

"Did you...?" Lois wanted to ask the most difficult question that had been on her mind tonight. She didn't how to approach him with it.

Logan already knew what she wanted to ask him. "Yeah, I killed him. But I did it because he wanted me to."

The brunette was shocked to hear that. But given what they had learned from Emily it made sense. If Corbon's disease couldn't be cured, then other choice was there?

"Look I know you said that you don't like having reporters hounding you for questions but as a journalist for the Daily Planet it's my job to give people the truth. And since you're the only one who knew what happened you are the only one who can get me to that said truth." She stated with conviction towards her duty as a reporter. Wolverine was surprised to see that she was serious about her work. Most reporter he'd known usually just want to write whatever just to get people talking. "But given what had transpired today what am I supposed to tell them? The Justice League is already in enough hot water."

Lois had a conflicting frown on her face. Her job was to tell the public the truth, no matter how uncomfortable it is. But with public perception on the League already souring if they knew what Wolverine had done to stop Metallo it just would get worse. If she did learn what had happened, she was afraid to admit that a shameful part of her would want to omit the story. But her integrity as a reporter gnawed at her to go through with doing that.

"Its simple ain't it? Tell 'em the truth."

That simple solution to problem snapped her out of wrestling thoughts as she blinked.

"Look I'll give ya' that flippin' interview." He conceded with a sigh. "But on one condition and one condition only. The only one who'll be interviewin' me is you no one else, got it?"

Lois eye nearly jumped at the chance but held off on it as a question was gnawing at her. "But aren't you worried about how the public will take what once they learn what happened to Metallo?"

Wolverine's response was immediate as it was raw. "I don't a give damn what the public thinks! 'Sides, I'm the one who should be takin' the backlash not the League. So I'll deal with it when that time comes."

He then returned to his original question. "So do we gotta deal Mrs. Lane?"

Lois though it over for a few seconds before smiling in agreement. She then got out her notepad and pen.

"So, Wolverine? Would you like to tell me what happened down in the Metropolis sewer tunnels?"

"The residual effects of the kryptonite are starting to leave your system." J'onn informed while looking over Superman's bio scans. "You should be in perfect health in the meantime."

The Kryptonian flexed his arms as he felt his strength returning. "That's good to hear! I'm actually starting to feel a lot better already!"

Nodding, the Martian picked up the containment cylinder in that stored the kryptonite shard. "I'll deliver this over to S.T.A.R Labs first thing in the morning. They would likely want to study more remaining remnants of Krypton."

"All the better for me."

A light knock brought the twos attention towards the door. Standing at the entrance was the room, J'onn took that as his cue to leave the medwing and give them their privacy.

"How's the chest wound?"

"Like it was never even there." He gestured at his pectoral where a hole once was. "You're not the only fast healer around."

"Good! Saves me the trouble of tryin t' pull everyone elses asses outta the fire!"

The two men shared a small laugh. Superman wondered if he was the first to see him laugh. He was usually so harsh and gruff, but it was nice to know that he knew how to relax and enjoy a moment with the people he's close to. At least in this case, he was becoming close to.

A serious frown then etched itself on Wolverine's face, getting to the reason he came to see Superman. "Lois told ya what happened, right?"

Clark's expression matched his, remembering everything his wife told him with what happened to Metallo.

"She told me everything, especially how you didn't needlessly kill him."

A deafening silence filled the room, neither knowing what to respond with. Wolverine slowly walked up to the medical wings window and stared out at the pitch black void of space. He mulled over how Superman took the news with regards to his longtime foe being slain by him.

"I killed him." He pressed his point, wanting Superman to understand what that truly meant. "And yer fine with that?"

"I didn't say that, but I understand that there was no other choice." He said with understanding. "I don't know how the rest of the League will accept it, but hopefully, in time, they will."

"D'ya always try t' expect the best outcome outta things?" He asked with a rueful chuckle.

Superman nodded assuredly. "I was taught that no matter how things got their bleakest one must look towards the brighter tomorrow."

Looking for something like that hardly ever worked in Logan's favor. Trying to find snippets of hope in oneself especially when you've done and seen so much was hard to believe in. You just accept what is with no positive change.

"I was gonna kill myself yesterday. Right before you called." His admittance caught Superman off guard. "Livin' with myself because of what I am was always hard, but knowin' what I am and what I've done...can someone like me even believe in the things you do big blue?"

Wolverine wasn't expecting an answer from Superman. The man was practically a paragon for hope and dreams, even with the people of earth not fully on his side he still had it. He was a stronger man than he can ever hope to be.

He felt a firm heavy hand on his shoulder, seeing the kryptonian standing next to him with a sincere look on his face.

"When you told me that the only way to defeat Metallo was to kill him I knew that deep down you didn't want to go along with it. I knew then that you weren't like The Elites, you see violence as a last resort not the only solution."

Superman squeezed his shoulder reassuringly. "That's enough to tell me that you're a good man and hero Logan. And if I catch wind of you giving up on yourself again, I can promise you that there won't be any kryptonite around to stop me from helping you."

The Feral Mutant had to refrain himself from discrediting his statement. He had tried to kill others out of his own selfish desires. And he doubted that part of him has changed for the better. But the fact that Superman himself believed so strongly in him prevented Logan from telling the man about that aspect about himself. It was probably wrong, but he didn't want to let go of that sense of hope that the Kryptonian lit up inside him.

"Maybe there still some o' that kryptonite in ya. Probably makin' ya delirious." Wolverine remarked before turning to leave the medical wing.

He stopped at the door making Superman arch his brow in curiosity. "Mind keepin' this a secret from yer cousin. Don't want her worryin' 'bout me."

Knowing that he was referring to his near suicide and probably everything else he nodded. "I will. There's no telling how'd she would react if she knew."

He thanked him with a low grunt but then a sudden thought came to him that made the man grin playfully. "Oh yeah! That wife o' yers Lois is quiet the catch."

With that he finally left, leaving a stunned Clark with his jaw hanging from his mouth. How did he know that he was married?!"

I hope you guys haven't been waiting long for this next update. I know my track record when it comes to this story isn't the best, but I'll try my best to improve on that.

Positive and negative feedback is welcome.