Chapter 4

Issei was walking around without his armor, knowing that people wouldn't recognize him unless he had his armor on, which suited Issei well, knowing that his identity was hidden from villains.

It was a week just after Issei had killed Joker. If he was being honest, Issei had no regrets about killing the psychopath who didn't give a damn about killing like many of the others that the heroes locked up only for them to escape and go through with their plans again.

Issei couldn't stand the idea of letting killers and monsters in human flesh run freely since he learned that even though he wanted to be a hero when he was a child, Issei learned something very cruel yet eye-opening to his ideal.

Being a hero doesn't always mean saving everyone since it's impossible to save everyone in the world, which is why Issei was content to protect his loved ones and knew that they were strong enough to protect their own loved ones.

Heroes aren't the ones who wore capes and moved buildings but the ones who make the most difficult decisions to save and protect as many lives as they can while living with the burden of their actions. Which is why when Issei looked at the members of the Justice League, he couldn't follow through with their decisions since they allowed someone like Lex Luthor, Joker, Gorilla Grodd, and many other villains who wanted to take over the world and what was their ultimate punishment?

A slap on the wrist and put in prison? That's not a punishment worthy of their crimes. That's a blessing for them since, back in Issei's world, they would've been executed or killed on the spot.

Ddraig appeared next to Issei and gave his own two cents to his partner.

"I know what you're thinking," Ddriag said while Issei put headphones on his head and began to play music to make it look like he was humming to the music before speaking to Ddraig.

'And?'

"I understand why you don't fully trust them yet, and to be honest, I get it, especially since they couldn't understand the pain of losing everything only to nothing left except the powers you have and myself," Ddriag said. At the same time, Issei nodded in response until he saw a newspaper and paid for one to read the news in Gotham City.

Issei's eyes widened seeing that Lex Luthor was running for President, which made Issei surprised since he saw Superman's arch nemesis's file on Brainiac's ship and couldn't see what he was seeing before Ddraig read the article as well before whistling in surprise, which no one around them could hear since Ddraig was part of Issei, ergo only Issei could hear him.

Issei's grip tightened on the newspaper, crumpling the edges. The idea of Lex Luthor as President was anathema to him. He could imagine the kind of chaos and corruption Luthor would unleash upon the world if given that much power. Issei had no doubt that Luthor's presidency would be a nightmare not only for the heroes but for every ordinary person who just wanted to live their lives in peace.

"I can't...believe this," Issei muttered, keeping his voice low despite his anger. "How can people...even consider...electing someone...like him?"

Ddraig's voice rumbled in his mind, soothing yet firm. "People can be easily swayed by words and appearances. Luthor has always been a master manipulator. It's not surprising he's managed to charm the public."

Issei sighed, folding the newspaper under his arm. "I can't...let this happen. There has...to be...a way...to stop him."

"You need to be careful," Ddraig cautioned. "You're still new to this world. You don't have the same connections and resources as the Justice League."

Issei nodded reluctantly. Ddraig was right. Charging in recklessly would only help some. He needed to be strategic and find allies who shared his concerns about Luthor. But who could he trust?

As he walked through the bustling streets of Gotham, his mind raced with possibilities. He could reach out to Batman. The Dark Knight was known for his distrust of Luthor and might be willing to listen. Then again, Issei's methods and philosophy often clashed with Batman's, and trust would be a fragile thing, especially since Batman doesn't trust anyone who isn't himself.

Lost in thought, Issei almost missed the small commotion happening at a nearby alley. A group of thugs was harassing a young woman, their intentions clear and malicious. Issei's eyes narrowed. This was something he could deal with right now.

He approached the alley, slipping into the shadows. One of the thugs noticed him and sneered. "What's this? Another hero wannabe? Get lost, kid, before you get hurt."

Issei didn't bother with a response. In a flash, he was among them, fists and feet moving with practiced precision. The thugs didn't stand a chance. Within moments, they were all on the ground, groaning in pain.

The woman looked up at Issei with wide, grateful eyes. "Thank you... thank you so much."

Issei nodded, offering her a hand to help her up. "It's okay. Just...be careful...around here."

As the woman hurried away, Issei couldn't help but think about the larger battle ahead. Stopping muggers and thugs was one thing, but taking on someone like Lex Luthor required more than just physical strength. It required allies, information, and a plan.

"First things...first," Issei murmured to himself, making a decision. "I need...to talk...to Batman."

"I'm afraid you'll have to make do with us." Superman's voice said before Issei turned around to see that Superman was flying down and landed on the ground.

Issei turned slowly, eyeing Superman with a mixture of wariness and respect. He had seen enough of Superman's capabilities to know the Man of Steel was not someone to take lightly, but Issei also knew that their ideologies differed significantly.

"Us?" Issei asked, raising an eyebrow.

Superman nodded and gestured to the rooftop, where Batman stood watching with his usual stoic demeanor. "We need to talk," Batman said, his voice a gravelly monotone.

Issei folded his arms, assessing the situation. "About...Luthor?" he asked.

"Among other things," Superman replied, stepping closer. "We know you're new here, but you've already made quite an impact after killing Joker. However, we need to understand your motives and see if we can work together."

Issei glanced between the two heroes. He knew this was a critical moment. Gaining their trust, or at least their cooperation, could be pivotal in stopping Luthor's rise to power. Still, Issei also needed to stay true to his principles, even if it meant clashing with the Justice League since there were some that Issei didn't fully trust.

"I don't...agree with your methods," Issei said bluntly. "You let...villains like Joker and Luthor...run free. In my world, they would...face true justice."

Batman narrowed his eyes while Superman remained calm. "We're not here to debate our methods," Batman said. "We want to know if you're willing to help us. Luthor running for President is a threat we can't ignore."

Issei sighed, knowing that working with them might be his best chance to stop Luthor. "I'll help," he said. "But we do things...my way. No holding back...against monsters...like Luthor."

Superman exchanged a glance with Batman, who nodded slightly. "We'll discuss our approach," Superman said. "For now, we need to gather information and plan our next move."

Issei nodded, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders. This was just the beginning, but at least he was no longer alone in this fight. "Alright," he said. "Let's...take down Luthor."

As they left the alley together, Issei couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope. The battle ahead would be difficult, but with allies like Superman and Batman, he had a fighting chance.

The journey to the Batcave was swift, with Issei flanked by Batman and Superman. Upon arrival, the dark, cavernous space was illuminated by the soft glow of monitors and the hum of advanced technology. Issei's eyes adjusted to the dim light as he took in the sight of the Batcave's impressive arsenal and computer systems.

Standing by one of the workbenches was Red Hood, his iconic helmet resting on the table. He glanced up as the trio entered, a smirk crossing his face. "Well, well, look who it is," Red Hood said, crossing his arms. "The guy who finally put that psycho Joker down for good."

Issei nodded in acknowledgment. "He deserved...worse," he replied simply.

"You're not wrong," Red Hood agreed, shooting a glance at Batman. "It's about time someone did what needed to be done."

Batman frowned, his eyes narrowing. "We don't kill, Jason. It's not our way."

Red Hood rolled his eyes. "Yeah, and look where that's gotten us. Sometimes, you have to make the hard choices."

The tension in the room was palpable, but before it could escalate, Ddraig materialized beside Issei. "Enough of this," the dragon growled. "We have bigger issues to deal with."

Everyone turned to face Ddraig, intrigued. "What do you suggest?" Superman asked.

Ddraig's eyes gleamed with a fierce intensity. "Cadmus. I've got a feeling that Luthor and Cadmus have captured the Royal Flush Gang, the same teenagers who were locked up like Ace. We need to find Cadmus, bust out the people they've got locked up there, and destroy Cadmus from the inside."

The dragon conjured up a series of holographic drawings, illustrating the plan with childish-like drawings with Ddraig, Issei, and Red Hood shooting the place up before they destroy the building and kill Luthor before pissing on his grave.

Issei liked this plan, given the fact that Issei nodded and gave them a thumbs-up. "I agree. Cadmus...is a threat. We need...to take them down."

Batman, however, looked skeptical. "Cadmus is a government project. It's designed to keep the Justice League in check. Even if we destroy it, the government will rebuild it. We need to be strategic."

Superman crossed his arms, considering the plan. "Batman has a point. We can't just storm into Lexcorp without a solid strategy, plus Cadmus has been keeping a low profile, and we don't know where they are, so until then, we need to gather more intel, find out exactly what Luthor is planning, and then act."

Issei slammed his hands on the table, causing it to cave in while glaring at them with annoyance. "We can't...wait too long! If Luthor...is involved...with Camus...then people are...in danger."

Batman sighed, rubbing his temples. "We need to tread carefully. If we move too quickly, then we risk exposing ourselves and putting the Justice League in a bad light in the eyes of the public."

Ddraig huffed in frustration but nodded. "Look, we may not be from your world, but this Luthor isn't just going to sit around and wait for us to figure things out."

"Agreed," Superman said. "Which is why we'll gather more information on Cadmus and Luthor's plans. Once we have a clearer picture, then we can decide our next move."

Issei clenched his fists, feeling the weight of the mission ahead, but felt trapped by going by their 'rules' and how they were wasting time. "Tch."

Superman and Batman then left the Batcave while Issei and Red Hood were alone until Issei turned to Red Hood, his curiosity piqued. "What...happened to Harley and Pamela?" he asked, his voice steady and concerned about Poison Ivy and Harley's condition and situation, given what happened when Joker injected Harley with a good dosage of the Joker Toxin.

Red Hood's expression softened slightly, his demeanor shifting from defiance to concern. "Harley and Pamela are...complicated cases," He admitted before continuing. "Pamela—Poison Ivy—was instrumental in neutralizing Joker's toxin since her knowledge of plants and chemicals was crucial to creating an antidote and left it for Harley, but after the dust settled, Poison Ivy went underground, quite literally, and has been keeping a low profile since then."

Issei nodded, grateful for Pamela's assistance but still worried about Harley. "And Harley?"

Red Hood sighed a hint of guilt in his eyes. "Harley took the brunt of Joker's last act. The dosage of the toxin she received was...extreme. She looked like she was living her worst nightmares over and over again; it took a while to pin her down so she wouldn't hurt herself. Afterward, we rushed her to the Gotham Medical Hospital for criminals. It was touch and go for a while, but Harley pulled through. Batman and I made sure she got the medical attention she needed."

Ddraig stepped forward. His face was covered by a Batman mask, which looked like stoic determination before he spoke like Bruce. "Harley's recovery was touch and go for a while, but she managed to survive. She's currently in a secure location, receiving ongoing treatment and rehabilitation."

Issei's eyes narrowed slightly while hiding the fact he was laughing in his mind at Ddraig's impersonation. "Is she...safe?"

Red Hood nodded. "As safe as she can be. She's under constant watch, and we're ensuring she gets the help she needs."

Issei let out a small sigh of relief. Despite Harley's past, she had made an effort to change, and he respected that. "Good. She deserves...a chance to...find peace."

Red Hood placed a reassuring hand on Issei's shoulder. "We'll keep an eye on her. You did good, Issei. Taking down Joker was a necessary evil. But don't let it consume you."

Issei nodded, appreciating Red Hood's words. "Thanks. I just...want to make sure no one else suffers."

Ddraig, who had been worried about his partner's mental health, spoke up. "Issei, your actions have had a significant impact. We'll do whatever it takes to stop Luthor and any other criminals, as well as protect the innocent. Which means we should move forward. We can't afford to waste any more time."

Red Hood turned back to his personal computer, typing rapidly. "I'll start gathering intel on Cadmus. I can reach out to my contacts and see if they can find any leads on Luthor's or Cadmus's activities. You should go check on Harley. She knows about you thanks to Ivy and wants to speak to you about Joker."

Issei nodded as he and Ddraig made their way to the Gotham Medical Center under the Sun. The hospital loomed ahead, its sterile walls and bright lights contrasting sharply with the shadowy streets of Gotham.

However, Issei wasn't interested in just waiting to see Harley at the hospital.

"Let's be...quiet," Issei whispered to Ddraig, who nodded in agreement.

Issei slipped into the hospital through a side entrance, moving with practiced stealth. Issei navigated the hallways, avoiding security cameras and hospital staff until they reached the room where Harley Quinn was being kept. Issei gently opened the door and entered the room, finding Harley asleep in her bed, her face peaceful despite the ordeal she had been through.

Issei approached the bedside table, finding Harley's medical report. As he read through it, Ddraig materialized next to him once again, his presence a comforting one.

All was quiet until Issei said a question that would surprise anyone who knew him.

"Did you...plant the bug?" Issei asked softly before Ddraig nodded in response with a smile on his face.

"You bet. While we were in the Batcave, I planted a bug on the Batcomputer. It's already transmitting all of its data, so while you chat with Harley, I'll be going through Batman's files on Cadmus as we speak since I could tell that Batman lied about having any information thanks to a guy named The Question?"

Ddraig couldn't believe the ridiculousness of superhero names, so he ignored them while going through the files.

Issei nodded, grateful for Ddraig's efficiency. He continued to read Harley's report, noting the extensive treatment she had received. Despite the severity of her condition, the doctors had managed to stabilize her. As he read, he heard a soft groan from the bed.

Harley Quinn was waking up, her eyes fluttering open. She gasped in pain, then froze when she saw Issei standing by her bedside. "Who...?" she began, her voice weak.

Issei turned to face her, offering a small smile. "It's me...Issei. You probably...don't recognize me...without my armor."

Harley's eyes widened slightly as recognition dawned on her, recalling the person that was next to Pamela and the one who killed the Joker since the armored man was on the news, but the man under the armor was in front of her very eyes.

"Issei Hyoudou? What...are you doing here?"

"I wanted...to check on you," Issei replied gently. "You went through...a lot."

Harley managed a weak smile. "Yeah, you could say that. Joker...he always knew how to throw a party."

Issei frowned, the memory of Joker's madness still fresh in his mind. "You...didn't deserve...what he did to you. I'm glad...you're okay."

Harley sighed, looking away. "It's been a rough ride. But I'm trying...trying to be better."

Issei turned back to Harley, who was now fully awake and looking at him with a mix of curiosity and uncertainty. He sat down on a chair next to her bed, his expression softening. "Harley, now that Joker is...gone, what will you do?"

Harley stared at the ceiling for a moment before sighing deeply. "I don't know, Issei. My whole life has been...wrapped up in his madness. I was a damn good therapist before I became his jester, but now that he's gone maybe. Maybe I can finally figure out who I am without him. Maybe...I can actually do some good for a change."

Issei nodded, understanding the turmoil she must be feeling. "You have...a chance...to start over. Don't waste it."

As they talked, Ddraig continued his work, sifting through the files he had accessed from the Batcomputer. Suddenly, he found something intriguing. "Issei, I've located a file known as Project Firestorm. It involves a meta-human that Superman has faced regularly, someone named Volcana."

Issei's attention was immediately drawn to Ddraig's discovery. "Volcana...what's her connection to Cadmus?"

Ddraig projected the file contents for Issei to see. "As a teenager, Claire Selton showed an aptitude for pyrokinesis—the ability to start and control fire with her mind. Her parents sent her to Metropolis's Center for Paranormal Studies so that she could learn how to control her power. Still, she was soon spirited away by government agents working for a program called Project Firestorm. They planned to train her as a living weapon. Given the code name "Volcana," she was trained and indoctrinated by government agents but rebelled and escaped."

Ddraig said before reading more of Volcana's file, which made Issei's left hand clench in rage. Hearing this, Ddraig continued.

"Now a fugitive, Volcana survived the only way she could: by stealing. This caught the attention of Superman. He unearthed the government agency and its renegade chief, Kurt, and caused it to shut down. He relocated Volcana to an abandoned island where she could find a chance to reorganize her life and turn over a new leaf. Superman makes periodic supply deliveries to the island, and Volcana takes the opportunity to flirt with him when he visits her. During one such visit, she commented that he was always polite and that his mother must have raised him well, to which he answered that he'd been lucky in that respect, and she agreed with him, showing bitterness that she had never been that fortunate."

Issei frowned, his concern growing. "We need...to stop them. But there's more...isn't there?"

Ddraig nodded. "Yes. I've also managed to hack into the warehouse where Red Hood faced the Royal Flush Gang. The security system was breached for just a moment, but I saw something—or someone—unusual. It looked like Supergirl, but different."

Issei's eyes widened in surprise. "Supergirl? But...different?"

Ddraig displayed a brief image he had captured. "This is what I saw. It matches the description of a clone known as Galatea, created by Cadmus to be a more ruthless version of Supergirl."

Issei studied the image, realizing the gravity of the situation. "If Cadmus has someone like Galatea...they could be planning something...big. We need to find...this facility...and stop them."

Harley, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. "Issei, whatever you're planning, be careful. I know Cadmus from the underworld, and trust me when I say that these guys are dangerous and that they'll do anything to protect their secrets."

Issei nodded, appreciating her concern. "I will. And I'll make sure...no one else gets hurt."

With their conversation concluded, Issei and Ddraig made their way back to the rooftop of Wayne Industries, their temporary base of operations. As they walked, Issei's mind was racing with thoughts of how to proceed. The discovery of Project Firestorm and the presence of Galatea meant that Cadmus's plans were far more advanced and dangerous than they had anticipated.

Reaching a secluded area, Issei contacted Ace and Red Hood, updating them on the latest findings that Ddraig found on Cadmus. "We've found...something important. Cadmus...is experimenting...on meta-humans...to have as soldiers...should the Justice League...become a threat...to the world...One of them...is Volcano, a former weapon...they tried...to create...but that's not all."

Ddraig nodded when Issei looked his way and pulled up the video and file before explaining his part of the shocking news. "They have a clone of Supergirl called Galatea. Genetically engineered to be a more ruthless version of Supergirl and the man who had the DNA to make it possible was none other than Professor Hamilton, the same Professor who worked on Supergirl and saved her life when Superman nearly killed her when Darkseid manipulated him."

Red Hood was shocked by this before asking.

"What do you plan on doing now?"

Ace then had her own questions.

"Why would they try to create a clone of Kara?"

Issei chuckled before replying.

"Fear and Security," Issei said before clearing his throat some more, which has been working a bit better since he was able to rest his body when Ace and Kara forced Issei to get some sleep when he wasn't helping the Kent family.

"They...needed security...when Superman...goes rogue...or the Justice League. That...is why...they were 'training'...you as well...Ace." Issei said. Ace looked down at the ground as her hands went to her arms and held them just as the experiments and tests appeared in her mind once again until Issei reached through the screen and comforted her by pulling Ace to Issei's side, much to their shock before Ace found herself in the arms of her savior and brother.

"They...won't harm you...anymore," Issei said before patting her head and rubbing it, making Ace smile in relief until Red Hood interrupted them.

"Sorry to cut in, but what do you plan to do now?" Red Hood asked before Ddriag laughed in response.

"Well, what else would we do? We're going to pay a visit to the Professor and...ask for directions to Cadmus." Ddraig said before laughing while enjoying the fun they're going to have without the annoying heroes getting in their way.

Later in the evening.

Professor Hamilton was just closing up his lab, the sterile white walls and gleaming surfaces casting an eerie glow in the dimming light. He let out a tired sigh, reaching for the lights to turn them off when a sudden presence stopped him in his tracks.

"Going somewhere, Professor?" Issei's voice echoed in the quiet lab. Hamilton turned slowly, finding Issei standing at the entrance in his armor, Ddraig looming beside him in his spiritual form, checking his claws, and Ace leaning casually against the wall, staring at him with an angry look on her face.

Hamilton's eyes widened in surprise and fear, recognizing Ace as well as the armored knight. "W-What do you want?" he asked, his voice trembling slightly.

Issei stepped forward, his gaze piercing, making Hamilton freeze in fear until Issei spoke to him. "We need to have a little chat about Cadmus and your involvement in their… projects."

Hamilton swallowed hard, his mind racing for an escape, but Issei grabbed him by the collar and pinned him to the wall, startling him. "I-I don't know what you're talking about."

Ddraig let out a low growl, annoyed by the false act. "You can drop the act. Don't play dumb with us, Hamilton, since we know about Project Firestorm and Galatea. As well as the Royal Flush Gang, which Luthor helped clean up since they were assisting Joker."

Hamilton's face paled hearing this before stuttering. "I-I can't talk about that. It's classified."

Ace stepped forward, her eyes cold and unyielding. "Classified or not, you're going to tell us everything you know. Starting with how far Cadmus's plans go." Her eyes then began to turn into swirls as Hamilton began to stutter until he yelled with no one hearing his screams thanks to Ddraig closing off the outside from the lab so no sounds escaped.

Issei stood over Professor Hamilton, his eyes cold and unyielding. The room was dimly lit, casting long shadows across the walls. Hamilton restrained in a heavy chair, trembled as beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Ace stood beside Issei, her eyes glowing faintly as she focused her mental powers on Hamilton's mind.

"Please," Hamilton stammered, his voice quivering with fear, "I don't know what you want. Just... just let me go."

Issei scoffed, the sound harsh and mocking. He leaned in closer, his expression a mask of disdain. "How many metas begged for mercy, Hamilton? How many pleaded for their lives, only to be treated like weapons by Cadmus?"

Hamilton's eyes darted around the room, seeking an escape that wasn't there. "I-I don't know what you're talking about."

Ace intensified her mental assault, causing Hamilton to cry out in pain. "Don't lie to us," she said, her voice eerily calm. "We know everything. We just want to hear it from you."

Hamilton's resistance crumbled under the combined assault. "Alright, alright! We... we did experiments. We treated them like tools. But it wasn't my decision! I was just following orders!"

Issei's expression darkened. "That's not good enough. You had a choice. And you chose to strip them of their humanity, violated the trust of Supergirl to make a clone, and who knows what else."

Hamilton's eyes filled with tears. "You don't understand! It was for the greater good. We had to protect humanity from the Justice League since the Justice Lords and when Superman went rogue are the reasons Cadmus exists!"

Issei's fist collided with the side of Hamilton's face, the impact echoing through the room. "The greater good?" Issei snarled. "How many lives were ruined for your 'greater good'? How many families were torn apart?"

Ace stepped closer, her presence looming over Hamilton. "You have to answer for your actions, Professor. The ones you experimented on were people with lives, dreams, and families. Like me, but you and Cadmus treated us like we were nothing but tools to use in your war."

Hamilton sobbed, the weight of his guilt crushing him. "I'm sorry... I'm so sorry..."

Issei leaned back, his gaze unwavering. "Sorry, won't bring them back. But you can start making amends by telling us everything about Cadmus. Their plans, their projects, everything."

Hamilton nodded frantically. "I'll tell you everything. Just... please, no more."

Issei and Ace exchanged a glance. Ace's eyes stopped glowing, and she eased up on the mental pressure. Issei's stern expression softened slightly, but the anger still simmered beneath the surface.

"You'd better not hold anything back," Issei warned. "Because if we find out you're lying or omitting details, we'll be back. And next time, there won't be any mercy."

Hamilton swallowed hard and began to spill everything he knew about Cadmus, his voice shaky but sincere. Issei and Ace listened intently, piecing together the information that would help them take down Cadmus and ensure justice for those who had suffered at their hands.

Hamilton's voice trembled as he began to divulge Cadmus's secrets. "The main facility is located in an underground bunker beneath Washington, DC. It's heavily guarded, with multiple layers of security. They have advanced technology, weapons, and even metahuman deterrents."

Issei's eyes narrowed. "What are they planning?"

Hamilton hesitated, glancing nervously between Issei and Ace. "They're developing weapons and clones designed to control or eliminate metahumans. One of their top projects is a clone of Supergirl named Galatea. She's stronger, faster, and completely loyal to Cadmus."

Ace's eyes flashed with anger. "And you're complicit in all of this?"

Hamilton shook his head, tears streaming down his face. "I thought that Superman was once a good man, a guardian Angel sent to earth to protect us, but Lucifer was an Angel as well, and he betrayed God."

Ddraig growled at this, considering Hamilton's words. "So that's it? One little event caused you to betray them and work with people who give two shits about your morals? Your little organization basically stripped kids of their free will and took them away when they had nothing just to have your little weapons for when the Justice League becomes a real threat? Oh, and I'm sure the government knows that you literally work with children since they're only meta-human, so they can't possibly be treated as humans or trusted, right?"

Issei was furious at Hamilton and what Cadmus does to metahumans before glaring at him with hatred. "You say you cared about protecting Earth, but what about those you call monsters? What about the ones you manipulate to use, but that doesn't absolve you of responsibility. Still, you've given us valuable information."

Hamilton looked up, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "Does that mean... you'll let me go?"

Issei nodded slowly. "Yes, I'll allow it. But remember, this isn't forgiveness. It's a chance for you to live with what you've done."

Hamilton sighed in relief, slumping in his chair. "Thank you. Thank you."

Issei turned to Ace, who was still glaring at Hamilton before Issei leaned down and whispered into her ear. "I'll give you a moment with him. Make sure he understands the gravity of his actions."

Ace's expression was unreadable as she nodded, but Issei noticed a twitch on her lips as if she was about to smile. "Understood."

Issei exited the room, closing the door behind him. Issei and Ddraig stood outside, hearing muffled voices through the thick walls. Suddenly, Hamilton's voice rose in a panicked scream, followed by the sickening sound of flesh tearing and blood splattering. The scream abruptly cut off, leaving an eerie silence in its wake.

Issei reentered the room to find Hamilton's lifeless body blown to pieces in the room, blood splattered across the walls and floor. Ace stood in the center of the room, her clothes and face smeared with blood. She looked at Issei, her expression calm and composed.

Issei approached her, pulling a washcloth from his pocket. He gently wiped the blood from her face, his touch surprisingly tender as if he was tending to a child. "You did what needed to be done."

Ace nodded, her voice soft. "He was too dangerous to be left alive. Cadmus would have found a way to use him again."

Issei finished cleaning the blood from her face and clothes, his expression serious. "We'll save them, Ace. I promise."

Ace nodded before the trio headed to their location, which would shake the world.

Cadmus Headquarters

Washington, DC.

It was a quiet evening in Cadmus, and the soldiers didn't seem afraid or worried about anyone attacking them since the Justice League didn't know where they were, all except for a certain trio.

Especially a being that was more powerful than the Justice League combined.

"Hey, did they ever catch that knight that they had back in the last lab?"

"No, but the knight seems to have taken that weird girl that looked like a doll."

"Oh yeah, I heard about her. Apparently, the only reason they kept her around was because she was a good puppet to use since her mind powers can mess up your brains and turn you crazy."

"Hah! Maybe Joker would like to take her then."

The four guards then shared a laugh, unaware that the knight was approaching the base.

Meanwhile, a certain being that was kept in a healing chamber seemed to have sensed said knight nearing the lab before his eyes began to slowly open.

The being felt the power near the lab, and it made his whole body shiver as if feeling a God enter the lab as if to save him from his prison after what the Kryptonian and the people in the lab had done to him.

[Master...] The being said in his head before smirking at the carnage that would soon happen until his Master would release him from his prison.

"So this is Cadmus headquarters? I honestly expected more security from them." Ddraig said while combing through the database and the security cameras before disabling them from activation until returning to the front to see Issei take on a different form that was almost similar to his knight armor. Still, this time, the armor appeared to be sleeker and mechanical, which made Ddraig chuckle, recalling a space TV show that Issei had watched, and his armor was a reference to the villain.

"Really? General Grievous is your inspiration for an assassin?" Ddraig asked before Issei turned to him. He replied by summoning a sword of light in both hands.

"It's...to strike fear...into their hearts," Issei said, which only made Ddraig laugh a bit more until she saw Ace walk towards them, wearing a costume that Ddraig made for her to hide her identity.

The moon cast a soft, silvery light over the Cadmus headquarters as Issei, Ace, and Ddraig approached with stealth and precision. The guards outside were oblivious to the imminent danger, their laughter echoing in the still night.

Ace wore a black, form-fitting suit that clung to her like a second skin. The suit was designed with advanced materials, making it bulletproof and resistant to various forms of detection. It had built-in tech to dampen sound, making her movements nearly inaudible. A mask covered her face, leaving only her mask's widened eyes visible.

"Now that their cameras and security are down in the vents and prisoners' chambers, we can begin our invasion," Issei said, his voice a deep, mechanical rumble through his helmet. "We need to be swift and precise. No mistakes."

"Now, remember the plan. Ace and Ddraig will locate any prisoners and release them, as well as disable their prisons and inhibitors. We are going to free them and show Cadmus not to underestimate us." Issei said it in full sentences, which shocked Ace before Ddraig explained it was the mask that was speaking with a voice modulator to make his voice different for the operation.

Issei then began to walk towards the entrance and smiled since he knew his part was crucial.

Bait.

Issei liked this since Ace was sneakier than him before the duo went ahead of Issei, which was his signal to have fun.

Issei sliced open the doors, which caused the guards to be shocked until Issei leaped towards them and sliced their guns in half before knocking them out with his clawed boots, which amused him before continuing forward towards Cadmus before the guards freaked out. Seeing that they were being attacked, their signals were jammed.

"Miss Waller! Someone broke into Cadmus and took out the main entrance guards!" A soldier said to Waller, who was shocked at this before being shown a video of Issei taking down the guards before growling at this.

"Send in Task Force X to capture it alive or kill it so we can learn who sent that thing after us!" Waller said before tapping a button to contact Professor Hamilton, but she received an answer when she asked her people to hack the lab cameras. However, it showed a sight that shocked Amanda to the core.

The corpse of Professor Hamilton's body and blood, or what's left of it, that is.

"I'll be damned," Waller said before watching the video of Issei slicing through the soldiers before he looked at the camera and spoke to her.

"I know you can hear and see me, Miss Waller, and yes, I killed Hamilton for I was hired to...release your 'weapons' unto the world and be released into the custody of my Master," Issei said in his mask before Waller narrowed her eyes and replied.

"And who is this master of yours?"

"You should know him well since he is the one who saved Ace after all."

This caused Amanda to be afraid since she recalled the knight that walked through her soldiers as if nothing and killed many of them without hesitation, but she also had other superhumans working for her and Cadmus.

"You have no idea who you are messing with," Amanda said, which made Issei laugh at her until he stopped to reply.

"I was just about to say the same about myself and my master," Issei said before destroying the camera, making Amanda glare at it before seeing her team prepare to intercept him in the middle of Cadmus's base.

The Battle Arena.

"Task Force X! The target is at the Battle Arena. We'll trap him there so you can take him on. Kill him." Amanda Waller said before pulling out a flash drive from a computer and began to head to the rooftop.

As long as Amanda was alive and the data on all of their operations was with the government, then they could restart in a new location.

"And besides, Luthor is still sending us more than enough funds for the other lab we have, so at least he's good for something," Amanda said while climbing up the stairs to the helicopter pad to get to her transportation.

The Battle Arena.

Issei was enjoying himself since he was playing with his food before killing them, which was a fate better than torture until he stopped to see that a hundred soldiers that tried to take him down led him to an arena, which made Issei smile under his mask, knowing that they wanted him here.

"Hm. Interesting facilities. I assume this is where you force the children and others you kidnap and psychologically torture to make them become your little weapons of war?" Issei asked before Waller spoke in the speaker.

"It's for the safety of the world since meta-humans cannot be trusted and are only good for doing the most dangerous jobs under our control."

"So you justify orchestrating the destruction of the children's lives of some and kidnap them like what you did with Ace before using that headband to control her like a puppet?" Issei asked, which made Waller silent for a bit until she replied.

"This is going to be your grave," Waller said as the arena locked him in before. Issei heard Waller end the call before unleashing a powerful entity into the arena, which made Issei stare at it in wonder.

The entity, or Doomsday, the monstrous creature 'created' by Cadmus, stood as a nightmarish figure in the dim light of his containment chamber. His appearance was nothing short of terrifying, a blend of raw power and primal fury.

He was a towering figure, easily over eight feet tall, with a massive, muscular build that seemed to radiate strength. His skin was a mottled grey, resembling stone more than flesh, and was covered in jagged, bony protrusions that jutted out from his body at irregular angles. These bone spurs looked like natural armor, providing both protection and a lethal offensive capability.

Doomsday's face was a mask of rage and brutality. His eyes glowed with a malevolent red light set deep within a skull-like visage. His mouth was filled with sharp, fang-like teeth, capable of tearing through steel and flesh alike. His brow was furrowed, giving him a perpetually menacing expression.

His limbs were proportionate to his massive body, ending in large hands with fingers tipped in razor-sharp claws. These claws, like the rest of his body, were designed for destruction, capable of ripping through almost any material with ease.

Every movement of Doomsday exuded raw power. His muscles rippled beneath his thick skin, and the ground seemed to tremble slightly with each step he took. Despite his massive size, there was an unsettling grace to his movements, hinting at a predatory agility that belied his bulk.

In essence, Doomsday was the embodiment of destruction, a living weapon forged by Cadmus to counter any threat. His appearance alone was enough to instill fear, a visual testament to the power and danger he represented.

Doomsday's eyes then opened to see Issei, who wasn't scared of him but impressed before the chamber opened to release Doomsday, which made him give into his instincts and attack Issei.

Issei stood his ground, swords of light in each hand, ready to face Doomsday. The creature charged with a ferocious roar, the ground trembling beneath his feet. As Doomsday lunged, Issei sidestepped, narrowly avoiding a devastating blow.

Doomsday's fist crashed into the ground, creating a crater where Issei had been standing. The force of the impact sent shockwaves through the arena, but Issei remained composed, analyzing his opponent's movements.

'Hm. From what I recall in Brainiac's files, Doomsday is a weapon that was crafted in the most extreme conditions imaginable. An ultimate and unstoppable force of destruction and devastation.' Issei pondered in his mind while playing the long game of dodging and blocking Doomsday's attacks, recalling Brainiac's files on the immortal weapon.

Scientists on the planet Krypton engineered a creature to be the ultimate weapon. This creature, the Ultimate, had no purpose except destruction and made his way across other planets before finally being defeated. Buried on the primitive planet Earth, he stirred awake after many centuries and unleashed death, earning himself the name Doomsday. The monster is finally stopped by Superman, who seemingly loses his own life in the process. Driven by an instinct to hunt the inhabitants of his own homeworld, Doomsday has resurfaced time and time again to threaten Superman and his adopted planet—no matter what gets in his way.

However, Issei also knows that with immortality, there is a consequence, which is why he was watching Doomsday try to harm Issei but could tell that his body was covered in old wounds that have healed over, possibly from many battles that Doomsday had with Superman.

'I see. That's Doomsday's weakness.' Issei said in his mind while he was wondering how his colleagues were doing on their mission.

Ddraig and Ace, meanwhile, had infiltrated the facility's deeper levels. Using her stealth suit, Ace moved like a shadow, bypassing guards and security measures. Ddraig, providing tactical support, guided her to the prisoners' cells.

"Keep an eye on the door while I disable the cells and free the prisoners," Ddraig instructed.

Ace nodded before Ddraig smiled as his fingers danced over the control panel. One by one, the cells opened, and the prisoners, Volcana, the Royal Flush Gang, and a few others were freed with a mixture of hope and confusion.

"You're free now. Follow us to a safe location," Ace said softly, leading them out while Ddraig snapped his fingers and opened a portal to an undisclosed location that wasn't near cities or large crowds of people.

Back in the arena, Doomsday was relentless. He swung his massive arms, each strike intended to crush Issei. But Issei's agility and combat skills kept him one step ahead. He parried Doomsday's blows with his light swords, each clash sending sparks flying.

Issei knew he couldn't defeat Doomsday alone through sheer strength. He needed to outsmart the beast. With a calculated move, he led Doomsday toward a series of support columns. As Doomsday lunged again, Issei ducked, causing Doomsday to smash into the column, weakening the structure.

Issei continued this tactic, using the environment to his advantage. Columns cracked and crumbled under Doomsday's fury, the arena becoming increasingly unstable.

"You finished. I know your weakness, but I will give you one chance. Stand down and surrender to me." Issei said, which made Doomsday roar in rage before charging at him, which made Issei sigh before snapping his fingers, causing chains to bind Doomsday to the floor until he snapped his fingers once more, which made multiple portals appear above Doomsday before copies of True Longinus appeared from them.

"You may have been created to be a weapon of war, but you still feel pain and fear, so now, I'll be showing you the price of those who obtain 'immortality.'" Issei said before Doomsday roared in pain as the many spears skewered his arms, legs, body, and even his head.

Issei watched the wounds heal on Doomsday's body, which made Doomsday groan in pain since he could still feel the spears harm his body.

Doomsday is immortal, and whenever he 'dies,' he returns from the dead with an immunity to what killed him, which is true for normal cases such as burning holes in his skull, drowning, blowing up, freezing, being thrown into the Sun. Other things like that but against a weapon that was designed and had killed an actual God before then would affect his 'immortality' differently.

Doomsday groaned before Issei summoned the power of another Sacred Gear, the Dimensional Space, and absorbed Doomsday into it, which shocked Amanda Waller, who saw everything before opening the doors of the arena.

"Task Force X! This is your target! Don't let him escape!" Waller shouted before Issei looked around to see footsteps approaching the arena until Ddraig spoke to him.

{Issei! We managed to grab the prisoners and escape. Galatea seemed to be asleep when we took her, but otherwise, she was in the clear. Time to make our exit.} Ddraig said to Issei, which made him smile before Issei then began to become shadows, but not before leaving a final message to Cadmus.

"I will be taking my leave now, but know that I am not to be underestimated, for I've seen what you are capable of, and now I've defeated one of your greatest 'weapons,' so this is a warning. Send whoever you wish to after me, and I'll send them back to you in body bags." Issei said before vanishing, which made Amanda yell in frustration, slamming a hand on the dashboard until her mind processed his words, making her gasp as she checked the cells of Galatea, the Royal Flush Gang, the Ultimen, Firestorm, and other meta-humans they had locked up.

"This wasn't an invasion. This was a rescue operation, and I fell for the bait, hook, line, and sinker." Amanda said before disengaging Task Force X.

"Dammit!" Amanda yelled while in her home and glaring at the video footage. She saw how this assassin was able to destroy Doomsday, the ultimate weapon to deal with Superman, but it could not even defeat some assassins that have magical powers.

"What are you? Are you just like the Justice League?" Amanda asked herself, knowing about the assassin's warning, until she picked up her phone and tapped a number.

"Get the heads together. We have a bigger threat to us than even the Justice League." Amanda said before watching the footage again.

With the escapees: Unknown Location.

Issei left the shadows and sighed in both relief and joy as he walked towards the dunes, where the rescued meta humans looked around in shock, wondering where they were until Issei approached them.

"Do not worry. For I mean you no harm." Issei said, with his mask helping him speak clearly to them. "I actually was hoping to find something that would lead me back to Cadmus, so when I learned of the Royal Flush Gang, as well as a clone of Supergirl, I decided to take a look into Cadmus and see who else has been taken from their lives to become a tool for...Justice."

Firestorm growled at the word since she knew that Cadmus merely wanted her to be an assassin so they could kill whoever they wanted. Otherwise, they'd kill her.

"So now what? You'll turn us into the Justice League?" Volcano asked before Issei chuckled in response, Ace smirking at the comment.

"Oh no. For you see, the Justice League and I have...different morals; while I do believe they are doing good, the individual heroes who believe that all villains are redeemable and such don't agree with my views." Issei said before looking at them until he snapped his fingers to bring a full city into view, which was actually Innovate Clear due to Brainiac being fascinated by the Sacred Gear that could create a world he desires but believed it could also be used as a prison as well. Hence, he ensured that Issei could control it with his imagination.

When Ddraig and Ace escaped with the others, Issei told Ddraig to plant the Innovate Seed into the Earth at a location suitable for his goal of creating a league of his own. However, this one is different since unlike the Justice League, which is only comprised of heroes, or Cadmus, which is comprised of humans who think they are superior to meta-humans, in Issei's own league, he wants to create one that combines both superpowered beings and humans who don't have powers as well as any other species.

In the moonlit expanse of the desert, a massive structure emerged from the shadows, revealing a hidden city filled with advanced technology and architectural beauty. This was Innovate Clear, a sanctuary and base Issei had envisioned, far from the prying eyes of Cadmus and the Justice League.

The rescued meta-humans stared in awe at their new surroundings, a stark contrast to the cold, clinical cells they had been confined to. Issei, Ace, and Ddraig stood before them, their figures silhouetted against the city's lights.

"This city, Innovate Clear, is a safe haven for you all," Issei announced, his voice modulated by his mask. "Here, you will not be weapons or prisoners but individuals with the freedom to choose your paths."

Volcana stepped forward, her eyes still wary. "What's the catch? Why save us?"

Issei's eyes softened behind his mask. "Because I believe you all deserve a chance to live free, without being manipulated or controlled by one who wishes to abuse your gifts. Which is why I give you all a choice. You can either join me in creating a better world for all or go your own way and continue living the life you choose. I won't force you to join me since I'm neither Cadmus nor the Justice League. They only care about proving their views and opinions are right, but I won't force you to work for me. Only you can decide what you want your fate to be, either a life on the run as a criminal, being a 'hero' in the eyes of the people, being a weapon for someone who wants to play God, or enjoying your new home where you don't have to live in fear and can learn how to control your powers without being forced to be a weapon."

The gathered meta-humans absorbed Issei's words, the gravity of the choice before them settling in. The offer of freedom and a fresh start contrasted sharply with their experiences of captivity and coercion.

Firestorm stepped forward, her fiery aura flickering with uncertainty. "And what if we choose to stay? What's your endgame?"

Issei's gaze was unwavering. "To build a world where beings of all kinds—meta-humans, humans, anyone—can coexist without fear, manipulation, or oppression. A world where everyone's gifts are respected, not exploited."

The Royal Flush Gang huddled together, discussing in hushed tones. Volcana crossed her arms, deep in thought, while Galatea, recently awakened, watched Issei with a mixture of curiosity and caution.

Ace stood beside Issei. Her loyalty was evident. "He means what he says. I've seen firsthand what Cadmus and the Justice League can do. Here, you have a chance to be more than just tools or fugitives."

One by one, the meta-humans began to see the potential of Innovate Clear. They saw a leader who offered not control but choice. Not exploitation, but empowerment.

Finally, Volcana stepped forward, determination in her eyes. "Alright. I'm in. Let's see if we can really make a difference."

Others nodded, one by one, pledging their support. Even those who were hesitant saw the opportunity for a new beginning.

Issei smiled beneath his mask, a sense of hope filling him. "Welcome to Innovate Clear. Together, we'll forge a path that respects everyone's right to live freely."

Issei said that as the first light of dawn began to break, it marked not just a new day but also a new era for those who had been freed. Innovate Clear stood as a beacon of hope, a place where a diverse alliance could work towards a better future, free from fear and oppression.

However, it would be like this for a while should the Justice League learn of another league like theirs but different.

"Get excited for this; it is going to be fun!" Ddraig said to the audience as he waved at them before snapping his fingers, ending the scene.

And scene!

Hey everyone! I hope you enjoyed this chapter. I wanted to delve into Issei's character and his complex relationship with both the Justice League and Cadmus.

Issei's Perspective:

Issei doesn't despise the Justice League. In fact, he respects many of its members and their dedication to protecting the world. However, his experiences have shaped a different moral code. Having been a test subject in his own world and in others due to Brainiac's experiments, he's seen firsthand the darker side of heroism and justice. He understands that not all situations can be handled with the same black-and-white approach that the Justice League often employs.

Creating a Third Force:

Issei's goal is to create a third party that balances the ideologies of the Justice League and Cadmus. He recognizes the necessity of both sides but believes in a middle ground where both superpowered beings and humans can coexist without the extremes of either organization. His group aims to keep both the Justice League and Cadmus in check, preventing either from abusing their power or influence.

Moral Complexity:

Through Issei's journey, I wanted to explore the theme of moral complexity. Heroes and villains aren't always clear-cut, and Issei embodies this gray area. His experiences have taught him that sometimes, tough decisions must be made for the greater good, even if they don't align with conventional heroic ideals.

Future Dynamics:

Expect to see more interactions between Issei's group, the Justice League, and Cadmus. These dynamics will be crucial as they navigate their relationships, challenges, and conflicting ideologies. Issei's group will serve as a necessary counterbalance, striving to create a world where power is not abused and everyone has a chance to thrive.

Thank you for reading, and I'm excited to continue this journey with you all. Feel free to leave your thoughts and feedback. Until next time!