There I stood, perched on a rooftop high above the sprawling skyline of Gotham City, with the Dark Knight himself standing before me. I casually greeted him, but he responded with his typical scowl and a stony silence.
"Come on now, don't be so broody. I know you've been itching to find me, and here I am, right in front of you." I sauntered around him in playful circles, then leaned in close to his ear and whispered, "Feel free to ask those burning questions that have your gears turning."
"You intentionally stole Wayne-tech to lure me out, didn't you?" His voice rumbled low and menacing. But I wasn't one to be intimidated by such. If they labeled me a villain, then I would be the freest soul out there, second only to Lex Luthor, who had made a sport out of defying the law.
"You could say that," I replied, relishing in his impatience.
"So, what do you want? What are your motives?" he asked bluntly, his tone lacking any semblance of courtesy.
"Well, that's not a very polite way to ask for something, is it?" I shot back, savoring his annoyance.
"I don't do polite," he retorted sharply.
"I know, I was just trying to have a little fun before things got serious," I replied, feeding off his seriousness.
"it's already serious ," he snapped. "I'm not in the mood for games. Why did you attack the Young Justice and leave them gravely injured? Are you just another villain who enjoys hurting heroes for sport?"
"Wow, wow, slow down, Batsy," I said, raising a hand dismissively. "First off, they attacked me first, so let's call it self-defense. And secondly, I thought they needed a taste of reality. Not everyone they encounter will treat them like kids playing heroes, only to be beaten by them in the end." I paused for a moment, a smirk playing at the corner of my lips. "I guess you could say it was my way of saying, Welcome to the real world, kids."
"You went too far," he growled, his voice tinged with anger.
"Not far enough," I retorted, my voice dripping with nonchalance. "They're lucky I have a 'no-killing heroes' policy. But if they push their luck one more time, I can't say I'll hold back as much as I did that night. Some might just have to retire from the hero business."
Batman fell into a brief silence, seemingly processing my every word, attempting to decipher my true intentions. My masked visage concealed any telltale signs of my youth, and my voice provided no indication of my actual age. My body language exuded a confidence uncharacteristic of most criminals, a defiance that challenged even the darkest corners of his psyche.
"You're still a criminal, a villain. And I will make you pay dearly for your crimes," he declared, though it seemed he had no immediate intention of engaging in combat. Perhaps he wanted to understand me better, to delve into the mind behind the mask before taking any action.
"A criminal, I can accept," I mused, my voice carrying a touch of amusement. "But a villain? Nah, that's not really my style. I'm the kind of guy who does whatever I feel like, whenever I feel like it. You could say I'm the freest person out there, unlike those bound by duties and selfish desires, be they heroes or villains."
I strolled a few paces away, gazing out over the city below, as I continued, "And why would you call me a criminal or a villain? Is it because I stole some high-tech gadgetry before getting attacked by those kids? Please, do you have any actual evidence of me pilfering such tech?" I asked, savoring the brief silence that followed before continuing. "No, I didn't think so. And as for Green Lantern, well, he got a bit too cocky, and I simply showed him his place. As for Sinestro, he wanted me dead, and I had no choice but to end him first. Let's just say it was self defense."
"Doesn't sound like one to me, there's always a choice." Batman insisted, his voice stern. "You can't go around killing people as if their lives don't matter."
"Ah, there it is," I chuckled, impressed by his unwavering commitment to his moral code. "The hypothetical sense of justice that you heroes embody. But let me ask you this: If I hadn't ended Sinestro, you know hundreds more would have perished at his hands down the line. It was a logical decision to stop him, to save the lives of countless innocents."
"There is always a choice," Batman repeated, his voice firm. "You can't justify taking a life, if we do so then what differentiates us from the villains."
"Simple, my caped crusader friend," I replied, my tone dripping with nonchalance. "Your conscience is what sets you apart from the villains you hunt. But by limiting yourself, by holding back, you're preventing yourself from truly protecting this city, even the world."
"That's easy for you to say," he retorted, his voice tinged with frustration. "You kill without remorse, without considering the piece of your soul that erodes with each life you take."
"I don't expect you to understand," I shrugged, my voice cool and indifferent. "You've been trapped in this delusion of yours for far too long, Batman. But enough of that. Let's focus on the reason I lured you out tonight."
"As I suspected, you did all this just to have a conversation with me," Batman said, taking a cautious step forward, his dark cape billowing in the night wind.
"Normally, I couldn't care less about what heroes or villains do, as long as it doesn't senselessly claim the lives of innocent bystanders or affect me in any way," I remarked. "But I felt compelled to warn you about an imminent attack that could leave the world dumbfounded if you heroes aren't prepared."
"An attack? What kind of attack?" Batman inquired, his voice now tinged with a hint of curiosity.
"Well, more like a hostile takeover, really," I smirked. "Lex Luthor and his so-called Legion of Doom are planning to use Gorilla Grodd's psychic abilities to control anyone who stands in their way of world domination. And that includes you, the heroes."
"That's impossible," Batman retorted, a touch of skepticism in his voice. "Grodd's psychic powers can't reach such a wide range or affect multiple minds simultaneously."
"For the mad genius Lex Luthor, nothing is impossible," my tone suddenly turning into a serious one as I emphasized on it. "Assuming my information is accurate, he still needs to complete the construction of a psychic amplifier. Once it's ready, I have no doubt he'll set his plans into motion."
"Suppose I believe you," Batman mused, his voice more measured now. "How did you come by this information, and why are you telling me?"
"I won't reveal my sources," I replied, a hint of mystery in my voice. "Believe it or not, that's your choice. But consider this a non-friendly heads-up. What you do with the information is up to you. I simply thought the heroes should be prepared."
With those final words, I slowly rose into the air, my gaze fixed on Batman for a lingering moment before disappearing into the depths of the night sky, leaving Batman standing on the rooftop, his mind spinning with the weight of the information I had just shared.
As I vanished into the darkness, I couldn't help but relish in the enigma I had created. The cool night air whipped against my mask as I soared through the Gotham skyline, a grin tugging at the corners of my lips. The conversation with Batman had played out just as I had anticipated, leaving him with more questions than answers. I reveled in the uncertainty I had sown, for mystery was my playground.
…
Meanwhile, down below, Batman stood silently, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts and calculations. He knew better than anyone the importance of being prepared, of staying one step ahead of the villains that threatened his city and the world. The information Ace had shared resonated within him, despite his initial skepticism.
As Ace vanished into the night sky, leaving Batman standing alone on the rooftop, a mix of frustration and astonishment washed over him. He had underestimated the mysterious figure resourcefulness and cunning. While their conversation unfolded, Batman had attempted to place a tracker on Ace, hoping to gain some insight into his location, identity and motives. But as he reached for his utility belt to confirm the tracker's signal, all he found was the device lying discarded on the rooftop.
A surge of annoyance coursed through him. Ace had managed to outsmart his surveillance, slipping away undetected. It was a testament to his skills and elusiveness. Batman prided himself on his ability to track down criminals and gather information, yet this enigma had effortlessly slipped through his fingers.
With a brooding gaze fixed upon the empty rooftop, he couldn't help but admire Ace's audacity. He had the audacity to stand before him, taunt him, and then vanish into the darkness, leaving nothing but unanswered questions in he's wake. It was a display of confidence and nonchalance that he rarely encountered.
But admiration couldn't overshadow the urgency of the situation. Ace's warning about Lex Luthor and the Legion of Doom echoed in Batman's mind. Despite the frustration of their escape, he couldn't ignore the gravity of their message. His duty as the Dark Knight compelled him to act swiftly and decisively.
Batman clenched his fists, his mind racing through various scenarios. Lex Luthor and Gorilla Grodd, two formidable villains who had wreaked havoc before, now joined forces to execute a plan of global domination. The thought sent a chill down his spine. Their combined intellect and power posed a threat unlike any he had faced.
He swiftly tapped his gloved fingers against his utility belt, activating a hidden communicator. A voice echoed in his earpiece, Alfred's calm and loyal tone cutting through the tense atmosphere.
"Master Wayne, have you encountered any difficulties? Shall I prepare the necessary resources?"
"Alfred, we have a crisis on our hands," Batman responded, his voice tinged with urgency. "Lex Luthor and the Legion of Doom are planning an attack. Gather the League members, and start gathering any information you can find regarding their activities. We need to be prepared for whatever they have planned."
"Of course, Master Wayne," Alfred replied, his unwavering support evident in his voice."
As the line went silent, Batman closed his eyes, allowing the weight of the impending threat to settle upon his shoulders. Despite the unresolved mystery of Ace's true intentions, he couldn't afford to dwell on it. The safety of Gotham, of the world, depended on his ability to devise a strategy, to confront this new alliance of villains head-on.
[Lex Luthor's POV]
Every progress report that reached Luthor's hands about the psychic amplifier brought a wicked smile to his face. As a man accustomed to triumph and getting his way, the initial thrill of victory had become a familiar companion. Only when he conquered the League, and ultimately, the entire world, would that euphoria be sustained for an extended period of time.
With a mischievous glimmer in his eyes, Lex strode into one of his state-of-the-art labs, accompanied by his loyal assistant, Mercy. They entered the section dedicated to constructing the advanced technology, where the hum of machinery filled the air.
"Give me the latest update on the project." Lex inquired, his voice filled with an air of authority, as he ascended the staircase to oversee the lab from above.
"Everything is progressing smoothly, sir. However, we have encountered a slight setback," the head scientist replied, a wavering undertone betraying his unease as he approached the sensitive issue.
"A setback?" Lex's brow furrowed. "Enlighten me. What seems to be the problem?"
"Sir, in order to make this concept work, we need to create two devices. One will enhance Gorilla Grodd's powers, granting him formidable psychic abilities, while the other will shield you from his mind control and any form of psychic attack. Additionally, it will act as a receiver, enabling you to channel and manipulate his powers at will, essentially granting you control over people's minds, just as Grodd possesses."
Lex listened attentively, his gaze fixed on the scientist. "And what, may I ask, is the issue?"
The scientist's voice quivered slightly as he continued, "Sir, our current challenge lies in developing a renewable power source capable of sustaining the devices indefinitely, without depletion."
A subtle smirk played across Lex's lips as he turned to face the scientist directly. "Nothing is insurmountable for LexCorp. Find a solution. Make it work. Time is of the essence."
"Yes, sir. We will expedite our efforts to identify a viable solution as swiftly as possible," the scientist responded earnestly.
"Good. Now, return to your work," Lex commanded, his sly grin growing wider as he observed the scientist descending back to the bustling main lab.
Mercy watched her employer with a mix of admiration and caution. "You see, Mercy, soon I will seize control of the Justice League, heroes and villains alike. The ultimate power—control—lies within my grasp," Lex boasted, his voice tinged with a hint of madness. He then erupted into a maniacal laughter that reverberated throughout the chamber, fueled by his audacious ambitions.
…
[Joker's POV]
I relished the chaos that follows in my wake. The streets of Gotham trembled beneath the weight of my mischief, and tonight is no different. Surrounded by my loyal, deranged followers, I revel in their laughter and the anticipation of the pandemonium we shall unleash.
As we roam the darkened alleys, leaving trails of mayhem in our wake, I gathered my men around me. Their eyes gleam with a mixture of fear and adoration, eager to bask in my twisted glory.
"Gentlemen, gather round," I beckoned, my voice a symphony of lunacy. "Tonight, we dance to a different tune. Our dear Batman, you see, is not himself. He's broken, shattered by the weight of his loses. And I intend to exploit that vulnerability."
A wicked grin stretches across my painted face as I continued, relishing in the effect my words have on my minions. "If he were to lay eyes on me, truly see my face, he would be reminded of the day I snuffed out his precious Robin. The trauma would ignite his gears, leaving him vulnerable, unable to stop me."
Laughter echoes through the night, a cacophony of madness that sends shivers down the spines of any sane soul unfortunate enough to witness our twisted carnival.
With a flourish of my hand, chaos erupted around us. Buildings set ablaze, cars careening off course, and the screams of terror filled the air like a sweet symphony. We danced amidst the flames, orchestrating destruction with a balletic grace that only the truly unhinged possessed.
The police, those hapless guardians of order, dared to stand in our way. But they were mere pawns in my game tonight. Bullets flew, but they could not touch me. I was untouchable, for I am the Joker, crown prince of crime.
As we make our escape, the blaring sirens faded into the distance, I stood atop a crumbling rooftop. My gaze swept over the city that was mine for the taking. Gotham, my beloved playground, once again lies at my feet.
"I hereby declare my reign over this mad city," I announced to the night, my voice dripping with malice. "I, the prince of crime, shall lead the mad criminals of Gotham in a symphony of madness, where chaos reigns supreme."
Laughter spilled forth from my lips, infectious and maddening. It echoed through the empty streets, a siren song that lured the lost souls to my side. The Joker has returned, and Gotham shall tremble in its wake.
…
[Tom Hendricks POV]
I lounged on my sofa, savoring the rich aroma of the steaming cup of coffee in my hand. It was just another morning, and I decided to switch on the news to catch up on the latest happenings in the city. Little did I know, I was about to witness a dark and tragic chapter unfold before my eyes.
As the screen flickered to life, a breaking news headline flashed across the screen, accompanied by images of devastation. The Joker, that enigmatic force of madness, had struck again. The previous night, he had led a rampage of unprecedented scale, claiming the lives of over a hundred and fifty innocent civilians. The police, valiant as they were, were unable to apprehend the clown-faced menace.
I took a sip of my coffee, my expression calm and composed. The news was shocking, no doubt, but it was not entirely unexpected. Joker was a ticking time bomb, a force of pure chaos that would stop at nothing to sow discord and destruction. His malevolence knew no bounds.
"Ah, the Joker," I mused aloud, my voice filled with a mix of indifference and annoyance. "Always pushing the boundaries of madness, isn't he?"
I shook my head, a tinge of disappointment coloring my thoughts. He never learns. The situation could have been avoided, or at least mitigated, if Batman had only done what was necessary. The Dark Knight, with all his brooding and noble principles, often hesitated when it came to dealing with the Joker. But sometimes, decisive action was required.
"This could have been prevented," I muttered, my tone tinged with frustration. "If only Batman had taken the necessary steps to end the reign of that maniac once and for all. Lives could have been saved."
I stared at the screen, the images playing out like a grim reminder of the consequences of inaction. The city mourned, its citizens left reeling from the senseless violence. It was a stark reminder that evil thrived in the shadows, always waiting for its moment to strike.
Taking another sip of my coffee, I pondered the twisted dance between the Bat and the Clown. Their eternal struggle was a testament to the duality of heroism and villainy, each playing their part in the twisted tapestry of Gotham City.
But as I watched the news, a thought to take matters into my own hands and restore order in the face of chaos came to mind. Joker may have his day, but I think it's time to close the curtains on that clown. The time for decisive action had come, and I would make sure the streets of this city were no longer stained with the blood of the Joker's victims. He had no problem torturing and killing kids, in fact it gives him some kind of twisted sense of pleasure.
The next headline was about a new vigilante who wore a red mask and uses guns to hunt down his victims who were mainly criminals. A smirk played on my lips as I muttered the words, "Welcome back to the world of the living Jason, or should I say… Red Hood, this would be fun."
Please kindly visit my to read ahead./Maverick_DaSupreme