Episode 12: Klarion, Wayward Son
Logan Residence; midnight. In his bed, Murdoc is having a terrible dream. In his dreams, his friends and family are being crucified, as Trigon's sons drain the life from them. Behind them, a huge portal rises from the dunes; texts carved into the portal glow bright red as a demonic being enters the world. When the figure emerges, he's revealed as Trigon. Murdoc gasps at seeing his grandfather standing before him.
Murdoc:
No!
Trigon:
Hello, grandson. I demand a sacrifice. Someone you love will do.
Murdoc:
Noooooooooooooo!
He wakes up. He looks around to see that he's back in his room. Once he calms down, he lays back down in bed, his hands covering his face. He opens a drawer and takes out a photo of him and Kacey.
Murdoc:
I can't bear to see you used like this, babe. I'll do anything to protect you.
He gets out of bed and goes to the bathroom next door. He turns on the faucet, cups his hands together, fills his hands with water and washes his face.
Murdoc:
(Sigh) There's just got to be something I can do to prevent all of this from happening.
He stares at his reflection.
Murdoc's Reflection:
You should see him.
Murdoc:
(Just stares at his reflection; nonplussed) Someone please tell me I'm still asleep.
Murdoc's Reflection:
You're very much awake, and you want to save Kacey.
Murdoc:
That's right. How'd you know?
Murdoc's Reflection:
Duh, I'm you, idiot! Anyway, if you want to save your girl, you must seek him out.
Murdoc:
Who?
Murdoc's Reflection:
The Witch Boy, Klarion.
Murdoc:
That nutcase?! Fat chance! He'd just make everything worse!
Murdoc's Reflection:
He warned you, and you chose to ignore them. How did that work out for you? He clearly knows more about these matters than you do. I can really think of no one better to help you in this trying time.
Murdoc:
(Sighs) Looks like I have no choice. Tell me where to find him?
Murdoc's Reflection:
The Tower of Fate.
Murdoc:
That place is very secure. I don't know if I can get in.
Murdoc's Reflection:
There's always a way. You just have to find it.
Murdoc:
Easy for you to say.
He dries his face on a towel and returns to his room.
The Watchtower; meanwhile. Members of the Justice League were in a meeting.
Hawkgirl:
So far, there's been no luck on the location of the Monkey King.
Superman:
We must keep searching. Monkey Prince is counting on us.
John Stewart:
There's a whole universe out there to search. So, it might take a long time.
Superman:
Take as long as you need. We can't give up.
Batman:
It's no use talking to Humanite; his mind is too damaged. Extracting information from him would be fruitless.
Wonder Woman:
Do you think Miss Martian might be able to help him?
Martian Manhunter:
We've tried that. The only thing we can do is continue to search and hope we get lucky.
John Stewart:
Right. Anyway, do we have any updates about Raven's son?
The Flash:
He's still dating my daughter.
Superman:
And that's serious how?
The Flash:
One of his uncles tried to possess my daughter as a means to get Murdoc to comply with them.
Wonder Woman:
This is disturbing.
Martian Manhunter:
Clearly, they'll stop at nothing until they have full control over Murdoc.
Superman:
It seems like Raven and John Constantine have everything under control for now. But that control can't last forever.
John Constantine:
I heard somebody call my name.
Zatanna:
Perfect timing.
Superman:
John, glad you're here. What's the latest in the search for the Sons of Trigon?
John Constantine:
They haven't bothered to show up after their possession of poor Kacey West. (Turns to Flash) How's she been doing since then?
The Flash:
She's been doing fine. But it's weird, she's acting like it didn't happen at all. I try and tell her that it's okay to tell us, but she insists that nothing is wrong. I'm just worrying that she's bottling up her emotions.
Nightwing:
(Coming in from the mess hall with a cup of coffee) Mar'i went through a similar phase when Damian joined Talia.
The Flash:
Dick, what are you doing here?
Nightwing:
Just wanted to stay in the loop of everything that's going on.
Batman:
Good for you. Hope this isn't conflicting with your career.
Nightwing:
Relax. Commissioner Sawyer's pretty chill with me.
John Constantine:
Anyway, Wally, forgive me for sounding rude, but I'm surprised that your little girl still wants to be with Murdoc given all of the 'baggage' he's received as of late.
The Flash:
Hey! They're happy together! He makes her feel special and vice versa.
John Constantine:
You know, in times of conflict like this, the conflicted party tends to break up with the other to avoid seeing him/her get hurt. Don't be surprised if Kacey comes home crying one day.
The Flash:
Keep talking and you'll be the one that's going to be sent home crying!
Wonder Woman:
Wally, John, that's enough!
Batman:
Tensions are high right now, I know, but this is not the time to be turning on each other.
Nightwing:
While you're concerned about Raven's brothers am the possible return of Trigon, I'm worried about Klarion.
Zatanna:
I can understand that fear, Dick.
Nightwing:
We know he's still locked up in the Tower of Fate, but I have the feeling he'll get out and starting creating chaos.
John Constantine:
Not only that, but the Sons of Trigon have made it perfectly clear that they want Klarion on their side. I shudder to think of what would happen should they join forces.
Zatanna:
Doctor Fate is keeping a close eye on him. He won't fall for any of Klarion's tricks, and he won't let the Sons of Trigon get anywhere near him. So as far as we're concerned, Klarion should be the least of our worries. (She gets up) I'll go check, as long as he's not out performing again.
She makes her exit via the zeta tube.
The Flash:
Still can't believe that the current Doctor Fate is also part 'Magic Mike'. Emphasis on magic.
Nightwing:
Nabu could have chosen someone else but that's not up to us to decide.
Wonder Woman:
Steele Maxum has proven himself worthy of the title of Fate.
Nightwing:
I know.
The Tower of Fate; later. Beneath the tower, Klarion was in his cell, talking to Teekl. Teekl mews.
Klarion:
What do you mean you didn't like my appearance as Murdoc in his own mirror? Trigon has done that before.
Teekl mews.
Klarion:
Look, he's the only one who can free me from here, so I'm going to have to explain to him how to get into the Tower of Destiny.
Teekl mews.
Klarion:
Yes. Free us. That's what I said.
Zatanna:
Are the months of confinement finally getting to you?
Klarion and Teekl look to see Zatanna looking at them from outside the cell.
Klarion:
Zatanna. Just because you don't understand Teekl doesn't mean I'm crazy. And then, what are you doing here?
Zatanna:
You're right where you should be. And I hope you've made yourself comfortable because you're not going anywhere for a long while.
Klarion:
We'll see.
Klarion stands up and walks over to Zatanna.
Klarion:
Make fun of me all you want, but it's only a matter of time before I bust out of here, and then you and everyone you know will be in for it!
Zatanna:
Good luck with that.
As Zatanna walks away, Teekl hisses at her.
Klarion:
Easy now, Teekl. She'll get hers soon enough.
Logan Residence; the next morning. Garfield wakes up early and goes downstairs to get breakfast started. When he gets to the living room, he notices the kitchen lights are already on.
Garfield:
Paine, are you making breakfast?
He goes over to the kitchen expecting to see his daughter, but instead finds Murdoc.
Garfield:
You're not usually up early, son.
He turns around; he was drinking a cup of coffee and the bags under his eyes were big.
Garfield:
Jeez, Murdoc, you look like you haven't slept in ages. What's going on?
Murdoc:
Just insomnia I've got a lot on my mind. Ever since my uncles possessed Kacey, I've been thinking about doing something that I know I'm going to regret. Can I tell you so you can give me some advice and tell me if I'm making the right choice?
Garfield:
What is it, son?
Murdoc:
Dad, for the sake of Kacey's safety...I'm thinking of breaking up with her.
Garfield raises his eyebrows, processing what his son had just said.
Garfield:
Are you sure? When Terra dumped me, I was devastated, plus the fact that she worked for Slade. Kacey's going to go through the same ordeal.
Murdoc:
Bur this is different; this is with someone I may have a future with. Do you think she'll understand if I tell her it's for her own safety?
Garfield:
She might not take it well.
Murdoc:
So what do I do? I dump her and she hates me but my uncles won't have any power over her anymore. Or I stay with her but she'll be in constant danger. What would you do in my place, Dad?
Garfield remains silent, not having an answer.
Murdoc:
(Sighs) Man, there really is no way around an emotional outburst from her is there?
Garfield:
Doesn't look like it. Look, you and her have been together through some of the worst times, heck, you even wrote a song for her. Are you really will to throw all of that away just because your uncles are giving you trouble?
Murdoc:
They already tried to harm her once. I'm not going to let that happen again.
Garfield:
And what if they don't leave Kacey alone after you break up with her? They know that, broken up or not, you still care deeply about her.
Murdoc:
I'm not taking any chances. Although, there is something else that's bothering me.
Garfield:
What?
Murdoc:
Do you think Zatanna could take me to the Tower of Fate if I asked her?
Garfield:
Why do you want to go there?
Murdoc:
My reflection asked me to go.
Garfield:
Must be your imagination.
Murdoc:
It's not. My conscience is telling me something, and the answer lies at that Tower.
Garfield:
If Zatanna comes with you, at least you won't do anything stupid.
Murdoc:
No; I must do this alone. I'll be back soon.
Murdoc leaves the kitchen, leaving Garfield alone.
Garfield:
I wasn't that stupid at his age, right?
The Tower of Fate; a bit later. Murdoc arrives outside. Murdoc steps forward, but hesitates, wondering if this really is a good idea. But with a deep breath, he presses on, determined to see things through.
Murdoc:
For Kacey, and all my friends.
As Murdoc gets closer to the tower, he sees no doors or walls to enter through.
Murdoc:
Must be a way to get in.
Voice:
Use the key.
Murdoc looks around until he finds a puddle on the ground that shows his reflection. The reflection waves back at Murdoc.
Murdoc:
What are you talking about? What key?
Murdoc's Reflection:
The Justice League possesses the key that will let you into the Tower of Fate.
Murdoc:
Do you know who has the key?
Murdoc's Reflection:
Zatanna is here more than anyone. I'd go ask her.
Murdoc:
Alright.
At that moment, a door forms in the Tower and Zatanna steps through it.
Zatanna:
Murdoc? What are you doing here?
Murdoc:
Personal reasons. Am I allowed inside? I need to see Doctor Fate.
Zatanna:
Why?
Murdoc:
I need advice from him. You know, to deal with my uncles and everything. You have the key?
Zatanna:
How else would I have gotten in here?
Murdoc:
Yeah (Chuckles nervously) I guess that was a dumb question. So, can I come in, or what?
Zatanna thinks for a few moments before finally agreeing.
Zatanna:
Follow me.
Murdoc follows Zatanna inside as the door leading into the tower closes and disappears.
Inside the Tower of Fate:
Murdoc:
Is he back from, y'know, performing in the bare?
Zatanna:
I just got done talking with him, and don't worry, he's clothed.
Murdoc:
Good.
Zatanna:
Nabu doesn't like creatures of chaos. But you behave yourself, it should be fine.
Murdoc:
Connection with my grandfather? I'm not like him. Even if my uncles didn't understand it.
Zatanna and Murdoc enter the Inner Sanctum and approach Doctor Fate who turns around to face them.
Doctor Fate:
Zatanna! You're back!
Zatanna:
I was on my way out when I ran into Murdoc. He apparently needs some advice on how he can deal with the Sons of Trigon.
Doctor Fate:
Wasn't Constantine's exorcism enough?
Murdoc:
Apparently not. I don't know if you know this or not, but my uncles have resorted to hurting my girlfriend Kacey in order to get to me. Coming to you is my only option, sir. I'm at the end of my rope and I have nowhere else to turn.
Doctor Fate:
I'll tell you the same thing I told your mother back then. You'll have to figure it out on your own.
Murdoc:
Seriously? You're one of the most powerful; a Lord of Order and you can't help me?
Doctor Fate:
This conversation is over.
Murdoc:
No wonder Mom was in despair when Slade came back to haunt her.
Doctor Fate:
Zatanna, show him the door.
Murdoc follows Zatanna out of the Inner Sanctum and back through the halls towards the entrance.
Murdoc:
Can I use the bathroom before I go?
Zatanna:
Sure. I'll show you where it is.
Murdoc and Zatanna go off down another hallway. As they walk, Zatanna examines Murdoc's demeanour and body language carefully before deciding to talk to him.
Zatanna:
Alright, Murdoc, quit paying dumb. Why are you really here?
Murdoc doesn't answer.
Zatanna:
Murdoc?
Murdoc stops walking and Zatanna stops walking soon after.
Murdoc:
Sorry, Zatanna. I have to do this! Azarath Metrion Zinthos!
He gags her with a black hand, stunning her before he runs off to the dungeons.
Klarion:
Murdoc, just as I predicted.
Murdoc:
You said you could help me. I hope that wasn't just talk.
Klarion:
I can; just release me.
Murdoc:
Azarath Metrion Zinthos!
He deactivates the magic surrounding the cell, allowing Klarion to bend the bars. He steps out of the cell, taking his first taste of freedom in months; Teekl follows. Klarion joins his hands together and points them at the wall; a hole appears and the morning sun pours in.
Klarion:
Follow me.
He and Teekl walk out of the Tower of Fate; Murdoc looks behind him before following Klarion. Doctor Fate teleports in front of them.
Doctor Fate:
You think Nabu doesn't see anything?
Klarion:
Yeah, I thought it was too easy.
Murdoc:
If a Lord of Order won't help me then I'll ask a Lord of Chaos and Klarion has agreed to help me.
Klarion:
You heard, old wreck? Get out.
He raises his hands again, creating a Ouija board to blast Doctor Fate. Fate counteracts by conjuring his symbol and firing off an energy blast.
Doctor Fate:
I refuse to back down!
As he and Klarion continue their beam struggle, Fate looks out of the corner of his eye to see Murdoc watching him.
Doctor Fate:
Murdoc...why?
Murdoc:
Forgive me.
He releases dark magic from his hands, creating a shroud of black fog, obscuring him and Klarion. When the fog clears, Klarion and Murdoc are gone and so is the portal that they escaped through. Zatanna soon enters the scene.
Zatanna:
What happened? Where's Klarion? Where's Murdoc?
Doctor Fate:
They both escaped. Damn it! I should've known something was up!
Zatanna:
It's just as much my fault. I let him in.
Doctor Fate:
Don't blame yourself Zatanna. Now isn't the time to be placing the blame on anyone. We need to go out there and find those two before they cause any serious damage!
At the Watchtower, several members of the Justice League were analysing the Rapid Earth Defence alert system (RED). Doctor Fate and Zatanna were behind them, implying that they had already told them about Klarion and Murdoc.
The Flash:
You're really not good with kids, Nabu.
Doctor Fate glares at him.
Wonder Woman:
Klarion could be anywhere.
Hawkgirl:
We should ask Raven to look for her son.
A red dot appears on Italy.
Shazam:
We may not need to!
Superman:
It looks like they're in Venice.
Doctor Fate teleports away with Zatanna.
The Flash:
Show-off.
Venice, Italy; meanwhile. Klarion was causing the canals to overflow.
Murdoc:
I though you were helping me.
Klarion:
I need my fix of chaos first. Once I'm back to my full strength, I'll be more than happy to help you with your uncles.
He continues to wash gondolas away and cause property damage.
Klarion:
Oh, it's great to be back! Throwing these buses like ragdolls is simply a delight!
Murdoc:
They're called gondolas, genius.
Teekl meows.
Klarion:
Oh, shut up!
Voice:
Fun's over!
Murdoc and Klarion look to see Zatanna, Doctor Fate, Superman, The Flash, Wonder Woman, and Shazam standing on a rooftop looking down at them.
Klarion:
We have company.
Murdoc looks to see The Flash among the heroes standing before him. The Flash and Murdoc's gazes meet, and Murdoc immediately sees betrayal in the speedster's eyes.
Klarion:
(To Murdoc) Stay back. Time to see if this little practice session paid off!
He picks up several gondolas and chucks them at the league
Zatanna:
Selbbub otni salodnog eht nrut!
The gondolas immediately turn into bubbles, so Klarion pulls the same black fog trick as last time to obscure him from them. In response, the Flash quickly runs in a circle to suck up the fog like a vacuum. Klarion then creates a massive tidal wave that takes the form of a golem.
The Flash:
Anybody have any ideas on how we can combat that?
Shazam:
I'll take care of it!
He dashes forward at the speed of Mercury and punches him with the strength of Atlas. Klarion doesn't flinch.
Wonder Woman:
Too bad Hawkgirl didn't follow us. Her mace would have been useful to us.
Klarion:
It wouldn't make a difference; look.
Shazam looks up at him and realises; Klarion shrunk him. Klarion then picks him up by the cape and shows him to the league.
Superman:
I hate magic (Zatanna shoots him a dirty look) Dark magic.
Zatanna:
Ezis lamron sih ot mazahs nruter!
With her magic, Zatanna is able to return Shazam back to his original size.
Shazam:
If you can just change my size on the fly, why not turn me into the size of a giant so we can squash this creep like the bug he is?
Superman:
And risk collateral damage?
Shazam:
Oh yeah, right.
Wonder Woman:
Murdoc, this isn't the way to fix your problem.
Superman:
We understand that you're desperate, but we're doing everything we can to help you!
Murdoc:
I've tried dealing with my uncles your way...now, I want to deal with them my way!
Klarion sends the golem toward the League.
Shazam:
Back for more, eh?
Wonder Woman:
Stand down for now, Billy!
Klarion:
Well, this has been swell, but Mudo and I must get going. (Looks at the Golem) Do whatever you want with these fools. I've grown bored of playing with them.
The golem splashes the League members as Klarion, Teekl and Murdoc vanish.
Doctor Fate:
I've just about had it with this thing!
The Flash:
Ditto.
Zatanna:
Ezeerf!
Zatanna freezes the water golem, allowing Superman and Shazam to punch it hard, causing it to shatter into a million pieces.
Once it settles, they look around at the collateral damage Klarion caused; flooded streets, wrecked buildings, splintered gondolas.
The Flash:
I can't believe this. Murdoc has gone too far allying himself with that freak!
Wonder Woman:
We'll worry about Murdoc later. Right now, we need to find out where they ran off to. If we don't stop Klarion, he could turn the whole world into this! (Gestures at all of the destruction around them)
Zatanna:
We'll clean up here.
The Flash:
You do that, I'm going to go find Raven. Somehow, I don't think she knows what her son is up to. (Runs off)
Shazam:
He just doesn't want to participate in clean-up duty.
Wonder Woman:
If Hawkgirl had been here, this would have been fixed.
Shazam:
C'mon, we should get started. And don't tell Stargirl about my small problem; she might take it the wrong way.
Superman:
You're not the only one who's been shrunk by magic...dark magic.
Shazam:
Might as well get started.
He, Zatanna, Doctor Fate, Superman and Wonder Woman begin cleaning up the rubble and freeing civilians who may have been caught in the battle.
Jump City Titans Tower; meanwhile. Kacey was checking her phone for messages from Murdoc. Concerned, Kacey goes to find Paine. She finds her in Raven's old room, meditating.
Kacey:
Paine, can I interrupt you for a moment?
Paine:
What is it, Kacey?
Kacey:
I've been trying to get in contact with your brother all day, but he won't answer me. I just want to know if you've seen him around lately.
Paine:
Not really. All I know is he left home early. I asked dad if he knew where he went and all he told me was that he wanted to go see Doctor Fate. And because its' personal business, I decided not to look further.
Kacey:
Well, usually he says "Hi Babe, wanna hang out?" or something, but today, nothing. Not even an invite to watch band practice.
Paine:
I hope he hasn't gone and done something stupid.
Kacey:
Like the time Damian used his sword as a backscratcher?
Paine:
Not even close.
Kacey:
What did he do with Doctor Fate? Try to suppress his powers again?
Paine:
As I said, it's not my matter to get involved in.
Kacey:
So I'm the one who's going to get involved. I'm going to the Tower of Fate.
Paine:
No you're not.
Kacey runs out of the room, and ends up crashing into Crush, who was drinking a glass of water.
Crush:
Watch out, Kacey!
Kacey:
Sorry Xiomara; I thought you had band rehearsal today.
Crush:
Since Murdoc didn't come, it was postponed. It's been happening frequently, and it's pissing me off. (Crushes the glass in her hand)
Kacey:
I'm going to get him. I'll take the opportunity to talk to him about that.
She runs off.
Crush:
(Yelling after her) If you're having relationship issues, you can always talk to someone!
Paine:
She's too far away but good advice. We should get Murdoc's band mates involved. The more eyes we have searching for him the better.
Crush takes out her phone and messages them.
Crush:
I'll tell them to meet me and Damon at the usual spot so we can brief them on what's happening.
Paine:
Alright.
Albania; meanwhile. Klarion, Teekl and Murdoc arrive in a forest.
Klarion:
Hopefully none of those goody-goodies will find us here.
Murdoc:
It's only a matter of time, Klarion. As long as that Watchtower is still standing, they have eyes on the whole world.
Klarion:
Yes, but only on the emergency zones. Now that I've satisfied my needs, we're invisible.
Murdoc:
I'll take your word for it. But other than avoiding the League, what are we doing here?
Klarion:
I told you I'd be willing to help you with your uncles. And as long as we're invisible to that stupid Justice League, there's no time like the present to come up with a battle plan.
Murdoc:
I don't want to hurt anyone.
Klarion:
You sent a guy into oncoming traffic.
Murdoc:
That was a one-time thing.
Klarion:
Well, I've got news for you. If you want to be rid of your uncles once and for all, you're going to have to 'play dirty'.
Murdoc:
And by play dirty you mean kill them?
Klarion:
Now you're catching on!
Murdoc:
I... don't believe this is the help I wanted.
Klarion:
As long as your uncles are still breathing, they'll always be causing trouble for you and your friends. Killing them is the only way to ensure that they're out of your hair for good!
Murdoc:
Even if I wanted to kill them, how would we? They'll just come back.
Klarion:
Why do you think I've been so busy trying to get my powers back?
Murdoc:
So you can rule alongside them?
Klarion:
Not so I can rule alongside them, but so I can match their power, kill them, and take the world for myself with you and Teekl by my side.
Murdoc:
I never asked to be your apprentice.
Klarion:
After everything you've done just now; betraying your friends and family, and breaking Doctor Fate and the League's trust by busting me out of the Tower of Fate, you might as well agree to join me. You're a fool if you think they'll forgive you after all this. Might as well see how much farther you can descend.
Murdoc:
I thought you had answers.
Klarion:
And I just gave you one! (Holds out his hand) Join me, and we can not only ensure the death of your uncles, but I promise you that the world will be eating out of our fingertips.
Murdoc:
The saying goes 'eating out of the palm' of your hand for one. And for another, no freaking way!
Klarion suddenly gets an angry look on his face. The look soon goes away, replaced with a seemingly remorseful one
Klarion:
I see. Well, I'm sure you have your reasons. But there's just one tiny problem...(Evilly) I didn't say you had a choice.
Murdoc:
Between you and my uncles, I don't know who's worse. I should have listened to mama.
Klarion:
Too bad mommy's not here to save you.
Voice:
Behind you, dummy.
Murdoc:
Mom?
Klarion turns around to see Raven.
Klarion:
So the mother bird has come for her chick.
Raven:
I understand your desperation, Murdoc but siding with a Chaos Lord is the worst idea ever.
Klarion:
Chaos Lord, huh? That might just be the nicest thing anyone has ever said about me.
Murdoc:
I understand now.
Klarion:
He's coming with me!
Raven:
No, he's not.
Raven takes her cloak off, leaving her in just her leotard.
Raven:
If you want my son so badly, you're going to have to fight me for him!
Klarion:
Deal. Hope you don't mind if I make the first move!
Klarion uses his magic to uproot the trees around him before turning them into giant wooden spikes that he throws at Raven. Raven conjures a shield. The shield destroys the wooden spikes on impact. As the shield disappears she looks at her cloak on the ground.
Raven:
Azarath Metrion Zinthos!
She uses her magic to throw her cloak and wrap it tightly around Klarion's face, blinding him.
Tower of Fate; later. Kacey arrives.
Kacey:
I hope Doctor Fate is here. (She runs around the tower a few times but couldn't find a door) How is anyone supposed to enter this stupid place?!
Doctor Fate:
I'd prefer it if you didn't verbally bash this sacred place.
Kacey looks behind her to see Doctor Fate had suddenly appeared.
Kacey:
Hey doc. Um, was my boyfriend here by any chance?
Doctor Fate:
Yes, he was. And it's because of him that the rest of the Justice League and I are on a wild goose chase for Klarion the Witch Boy!
Kacey:
He's out?! I didn't know he was on parole.
Doctor Fate:
He's not. Murdoc must've been so desperate to be rid of his uncles that he aided in his escape!
Kacey:
Where is he?
Doctor Fate:
They were in Italy last time, but now, we don't know. But I assure you we're doing everything we can to find him and Klarion.
Kacey:
I've got to tell the rest of the Titans. Thank you for telling me, doctor!
Doctor Fate:
Be careful, Kacey. When we faced Klarion in Italy, he was fighting us with his full strength. Don't do anything too rash.
Kacey:
Right. (Nods and runs off)
Kacey activates her earpiece
Kacey:
Paine, your brother has done something really stupid.
Paine:
(Voice) Tell me about it.
Kacey:
He freed Klarion. Tell the rest of the team.
Paine:
(Voice, sighs) It will be done.
Kacey:
I'll meet you guys back at the tower.
Paine:
(Voice) Alright. Hurry up!
Kacey:
Don't I always?
In Jump City, Crush and Damon meet up with the other members of 'The Devil's Advocates' at a Live Music Eatery.
Spike:
Are you kidding? Murdoc's gone missing again?!
Grim:
It's not like him to keep disappearing like this.
Spirit:
No; this is very unusual. First no new songs, and now this.
Damon:
So, I guess that means you guys haven't seen him then?
Spike, Grim, and Spirit both shake their heads. Crush's communicator goes off.
Crush:
Any word on Murdoc's location?
Damon:
Yeah, his bandmates weren't much of a help.
Paine:
(Voice) No, but come back to the Tower. I'll explain everything when you get there.
She disconnects. Crush and Damon get up.
Damon:
We gotta go.
Crush:
If you see Murdoc, give us a ring.
Spirit:
You can count on us.
Damon:
Right. (He and Crush leave)
At the Tower, the Jump City Titans have gathered, except Balduin. Paine had changed into her Emerald Witch attire and Kacey was in her Kid Flash attire.
Kid Flash:
I hope we're ready to take on someone like Klarion.
Emerald Witch:
I just hope my brother is okay.
Crush:
Question; where are they?
Emerald Witch:
Albania.
Albania; the same time. Klarion and Raven were not holding back in their attacks; every attack they threw at each other was countered.
Klarion:
You've gone soft Raven; becoming a mom will do that to you.
Raven:
Like you know anything about love! Let alone motherly love!
Murdoc tries to intervene only for Klarion to blast him away and encase him in a dome.
Klarion:
You stay in there until the adults are finished talking.
Murdoc:
There's nothing 'adult' about you!
Klarion:
Says the boy who's constantly running away from home!
Raven:
Free him or else!
Klarion:
Or else what?
Raven suddenly has four red demon eyes.
Murdoc:
Oh no.
Klarion starts to get nervous.
Raven:
Witch Boy! You've caused both my family and this world enough harm! I swear on everything that I! WILL! END YOU!
Murdoc is horrified to see his mother willing to take another's' life. Klarion however doesn't seem fazed.
Klarion:
Oh bother! Let's just get this over with.
By snapping his fingers, Klarion uses more of the trees in the area to construct a giant wooden golem.
Raven:
Golems; is that all you've got?
Klarion:
You're right, I can do better.
Klarion snaps his fingers again and the tree golem becomes a giant flying pirate ship with cannons and guns all alongside it. Raven just destroys it. Her attack injures Teekl, causing him to meow in pain.
Klarion:
Teekl! How dare you?!
Raven:
Final warning. I have a way to get rid of you once and for all. So release my son now!
Klarion:
Never!
The T-Jet appears above them; Emerald Witch, Kid Flash, Robin, Nightstar, Crush and Damon HALO jump down to the clearing, just as Raven is ready to finish off Klarion.
Emerald Witch:
What's happening?!
Murdoc:
I think mom's about to do Klarion in!
She frees Murdoc from the dome.
Murdoc:
She's going to kill him.
Damon:
Good! It's about time that freak gets what he has coming to him.
Everyone but Crush glares at him.
Damon:
Seriously? You want to let such a monster live?
Raven:
Necronom Hezberek Mortix!
Emerald Witch:
Mom! Stop!
Raven:
(Looks down) Paine?
Emerald Witch:
You taught us not to take a life! This isn't what heroes are supposed to do. I know Klarion has hurt us more times that we care to count, but this is not the answer!
Raven hears her eldest daughters' words; her four eyes disappear and her skin fades from red to her normal complexion. Klarion is on the ground, terrified. As Raven comes back on the ground, Zatanna and Doctor Fate arrive. Klarion looks up at them and puts his arms forward.
Zatanna:
Mih ffuc.
Handcuffs suddenly appear around Klarion's wrists as Doctor Fate lifts him up on his feet.
Doctor Fate:
Be glad I don't imprison you too, Murdoc.
Zatanna grabs Teekl in her arms.
Zatanna:
You didn't hold back, Raven.
She then summons an animal carrier and loads Teekl inside. Teekl hisses in anger as a lock appears on the front of the carrier. Once they're gone, Raven looks at Murdoc, disappointed.
Murdoc:
Mom, I'm so sorry, but...I was desperate, I-
Raven:
Whatever you have to say, can wait until we get home.
Murdoc hangs his head in shame. Crush puts her arms around her bandmate.
Crush:
See you in 50 years when you're ungrounded, buddy.
Emerald Witch:
You're not helping.
Crush:
Sorry.
Damon:
You're exaggerating. 50 months, maximum.
Crush takes her arm off him as Kid Flash comes over.
Kid Flash:
Oh, Murdoc, I'm so glad that you're alright!
Kid Flash hugs Murdoc...but he doesn't hug back. Kid Flash releases Murdoc from the hug and looks at him.
Kid Flash:
Hey, what's wrong?
A few moments of silence pass.
Murdoc:
I'm sorry, Kacey.
Kid Flash:
Hey, I get it, you were desperate, and you made a big mistake, but it's all over now.
Murdoc:
No, it's not that. It's...look, as long as my uncles are around, they're going to keep using you to get to me because they know that we're together. To ensure your safety, I'm willing to make this sacrifice.
Kid Flash:
What are you talking about?
Murdoc:
...Kacey...we cannot be together anymore.
Kid Flash's face falls as she feels a level of shock she never felt before. Not far from them, all of Kid Flash and Murdoc's friends gasp, including Raven.
Kid Flash:
You're...you're breaking up with me?!
Murdoc:
I don't want to, Kacey, but for your safety I feel like I have to. It's too dangerous for us to be together. I'm willing to distance myself from you if it means you get to live a happy life.
Kid Flash:
My life isn't happy unless you're in it!
Murdoc:
I'm sorry.
Murdoc walks off with Raven as Kid Flash just stares off after her boyfriend.
Kid Flash:
But...but Murdoc.
Kid Flash falls to her knees, covers her face with her hands and quietly cries.
Nightstar and Emerald Witch walk over to her and hug her.
Nightstar:
It's okay, Kacey. We're here for you.
Kid Flash:
I can't believe we're over...after everything.
Robin:
Don't lose hope, Kacey. Murdoc said he didn't want to do it, so he clearly still loves you. The way I see it, your guys' relationship isn't over, just on a brief hiatus.
Damon:
But as long as Murdoc and Paine's bastard uncles are in the picture, I don't see Kacey and Murdoc being together anytime soon.
Hearing that makes Kid Flash bawl even more.
Robin:
(Sarcastically; at Damon) Did anyone ever tell you that you have a way with words?
Damon:
No, you're the first.
Robin:
Then just like Impulse, you should learn when to shut up.
Kid Flash wipes the tears from her eyes as Emerald Witch puts a hand on her shoulder
Emerald Witch:
Don't worry, Kacey. I'll try and talk some sense into my brother the next time I see him.
The Tower of Fate; meanwhile. Doctor Fate and Zatanna are locking Klarion and Teekl up in a more secure cell.
Zatanna:
I'd like to see you try and break out of this one.
Doctor Fate:
Especially since this cell nullifies your magic. So, you can't even get in contact with the outside world like you did with Murdoc.
Klarion:
How would you know I spoke to him masquerading as his reflection?
Zatanna:
We expect that kind of underhanded tactic from someone like you.
Klarion:
This cell can't hold me. I'll be out before long.
Doctor Fate:
(Unfazed) We'll hold you to it.
Doctor Fate and Zatanna walk away from Klarion and his 'new home'. After they left, three dark shrouds enter the cell.
Wrath:
This cell nullifies your magic.
Lust:
But luckily for us.
Envy:
Our magic still works.
Klarion:
Well well, the Sons of to finish me and Teekl off now that we're trapped in here?
Wrath:
On the contrary, witch boy. We've seen the havoc you caused after our nephew set you free. And we think you can help us in achieving our goal.
Klarion:
You do know that I was prepping myself to kill you three, right? Why do you want to work with me?
Wrath:
You have a knack for getting through to Murdoc if he was willing to trust you and set you free.
Envy:
And we want him to be the next vessel for our father, Trigon.
Lust:
If we team up; you get us Murdoc so we can get our dear papa to possess him, I'm sure he'd be willing to adopt a fourth son, and the five of us can rule this pathetic world together!
Envy:
Trigon will return.
Wrath:
So, what do you say?
Klarion:
Only if you promise to let me be the one to kill Murdoc's mommy! No one makes a fool out of me and gets away with it!
Wrath:
Deal.
Klarion:
(A demonic smile forms on his face) Deal, brothers.
West Residence; later. Kacey is in her room, looking at photos of her and Murdoc together.
Kacey:
Murdoc...are we really over?
Someone knocks at her door; Wally enters.
Wally:
You okay, Kacey?
Kacey:
I don't know. I know that Murdoc still loves me, and he had good intentions on breaking up with me, but...it still hurts. And as long as The Sons of Trigon are still a threat, I don't see Murdoc and me being together ever again.
Wally sits down next to his heartbroken daughter.
Wally:
Don't worry, Kacey. Me and the rest of the Justice League, along with the Justice League Dark and all of our friends, are working tirelessly on figuring out ways to not only find, but defeat the Sons of Trigon so they won't darken our doorsteps ever again. And once they're gone, I promise you that you and Murdoc will be together again.
Kacey:
Promise?
Wally:
You and Murdoc getting back together is a guarantee. You said it yourself, he still loves you, so I'm positive that once this whole mess blows over, everything will go back to the way it was.
Kacey:
Thanks dad.
Logan Residence: the same time. We see Murdoc screaming into his pillow, the stresses of recent events having gotten to him. Downstairs, the rest of the family hear him.
Garfield:
I guess he went through with his plan to break up with Kacey to protect her.
Paine:
Unfortunately, yes.
Garfield:
I can't believe this, Rae. Just because your brothers keep harassing him, Murdoc has to ruin his own life.
Raven:
Do you remember Trigon ruined mine?
Paine:
History is basically repeating itself.
They hear sounds other than screaming; it sounds like Murdoc trashing his room.
Lilith:
Can I go upstairs and see how he's doing?
Raven:
Just let him vent.
The four of them wince when they hear the sound of glass shattering.
Paine:
Just because he's a Rockstar doesn't mean he has to trash his own place like one.
Raven:
Your brother is going through a tough time right now, Paine.
Garfield:
When he calms down, we'll go up and see how he's doing.
Lilith:
I can't even imagine the type of pain Murdoc must be in right now.
In his room, Murdoc throws a book at the wall, before sitting on his bed and breathing heavily.
Murdoc:
(Looks up to the ceiling and begins shouting) WHY! WHY ME! WHAT DID I DO TO DESERVE THIS!?
End of 'Klarion, Wayward Son'
Cast:
Kari Wahlgren: Nightstar/Mar'i Grayson
Stuart Allan: Robin/Damian Wayne
Ashley Eckstein: Emerald Witch/Paine Logan
Jesse McCartney: Murdoc Logan
Debi Derryberry: Lilith Logan
Jessie Flower: Kid Flash/Kacey West
James Arnold Taylor: Damon Jones
Janet Varney: Crush
Greg Cipes: Garfield Logan, Lust, Spike
Scott Menville: Nightwing/Dick Grayson, Envy, Grim
Tara Strong: Raven/Rachel Logan
Jason Spisak: The Flash/Wally West
Roger Craig Smith: Batman/Bruce Wayne
George Newbern: Superman/Clark Kent
Susan Eisenberg: Wonder Woman/Diana Prince
Phil LaMarr: Green Lantern/John Stewart
Carl Lumbly: Martian Manhunter
Maria Canals: Hawkgirl
Jennifer Hale: Zatanna
Jerry O Connell: Shazam/Billy Batson
Greg Grunberg: Doctor Fate/Steele Maxum
David Tennant: John Constantine
Thom Adcox: Klarion
Kevin Michael Richardson: Trigon, Wrath
Jess Harnell: Spirit