Chapter Nine: Playing Offense.
Alexa, newly empowered by the patronage of Hecate, sent forth purple flames from the two torches she carried. They formed into snakes which grabbed both the werewolf Shaggy and Iron Face. She then flew off with the two away from the suburban area. She flew them down to the nearby quarry where no bystanders could be harmed.
She then let loose a mad sounding cackle and motioned the torches in her hands. From one a flock of flaming birds shot out at Iron Face. They struck him, the flames and the impact forcing him on the defensive. This allowed an opening for the werewolf Shaggy to strike out with his claws, drawing blood from the hulking madman. This didn't seem to faze Iron Face who delivered a wild haymaker to the maw of the werewolf. He was about to strike again when Alexa launched another flaming snake. The snake coiled itself around Iron Face's arm and then the rest of his body. It then made its way into one of the wounds Shaggy had opened. The snake was searching, searching for a potential trap. Something buried for in case this monstrosity had failed in its mission and fell into enemy hands. The snake burned through muscle and tissue until finding its prey nestled nice and tight in the throat of the hulking fiend. A hideous spider, the same kind that had tried to attack Alexa in the bath, through the snake she could see it. And upon recalling the humiliating and horrifying ordeal, Alexa unleashed a fury she had never known before. But crimson lights burst forth from the spider, clashing with her purple flame.
"By the Goddess you will pay," Alexa cried out.
"Your goddess is nothing to me," a sinister feminine voice said as crimson flames burst forth from Iron Face, pushing back Alexa's own flaming tendrils.
The amazon sorceress struggled against the powerful energies wrestling with the magics of the goddess Hecate she had been entrusted with. Watching all of this from below with only a hint of understanding was the werewolf Shaggy. Looking up his animal brain recognized Alexa, and how she had put him to heel. She was part of the pack, a part which he had to respect and obey. And now she was being threatened. Howling out he leapt out at Iron Face, left standing still while crimson flames burst from him. His claws were deflected however by the power of the flames which forced him back.
'Shaggy,' a familiar semi-psychic voice rang out.
Scooby-Doo, leading the charge along with Wonder Woman and Artemis, finally caught up with them. Scooby leashed his inherent abilities which connected his mind to the werewolf. But the crimson energies stirred a reaction within Scooby. He felt a fury he had never felt before and it merged with Shaggy's own primal instincts. Emerald energies swirled around the two. Both werewolf and dog charged at Iron Face, the green etherial energies swirling around Shaggy's claws. This allowed him to cut through the emerald flames and deep into Iron Face's chest. Deep enough to claw through the spider the crimson flames sprung from. This caused the flames to dissipate and the wolfman threw Iron Face into the water.
"Well, that's one problem taken care of," said Artemis, eyeing the wolfman as well as the apparently transformed Alexa who hovered down to the werewolf.
When her feet touched the sand, Alexa released her torches which hovered beside her as she walked up to the werewolf. The energies it wielded now fading, Scooby even drawing back, curious as to what was happening. Alexa walked up to the werewolf, who stared intently at the witch woman walking up to him. Alexa walked with no fear of the creature before her and placed her hand against its cheek. She continued to stroke him as recognition came to the creature, who went to his knees and bowed his head. The wolf then began to shrink and its fur began to recede back into the flesh. Alexa went to her knees as well as the werewolf began to fade before the man, losing his balance. She caught him and cradled him in almost a motherly manner. Soon enough it was the man Shaggy Rogers who was in her arms.
"Like...what...what..."
"Shush," Alexa said. "Rest."
Shaggy slumped back in her arms, exhausted. While Alexa's sisters ran up to her.
"And here I hoped you would keep out of trouble," said Artemis.
The flaming snakes burst from the torches hovering behind Alexa and hissed, which actually caused Artemis to flinch, much to Diana's amusement. Although that brief bit faded upon recognition of the torches.
"Hecate," she said.
"I am...her agent on this Earth," Alexa said. "The goddess wishes for a more...positive representative on this world. Her messengers, who are apparently known to Mystery Incorporated, came to me in a dream. The goddess is aware of the foe we now face. She has thus chosen me to act on her behalf against this interloper."
"And you agreed to this?" Artemis asked.
"I am a part of this now sister," said Alexa. "And while I am still no warrior I can now aid...as a witch. The first true Amazon sorceress in centuries."
"But how..."
"When I awoke, still tied in the jet, a silver mask lay next to me," said Alexa. "A gift from the goddess. I was still bound but was able to get it onto my face. And spoke thrice the name of the goddess to invoke her power."
Diana and Artemis shared a glance. Hecate was a tricky kind of goddess. One of many faces and attributes, in truth something of a wild card among their pantheon. But both decided that ultimately their faith should be put in Alexa. A woman they had known all their lives as being virtuous in all things. If there would be anyone whom they could trust with such powers it would be her.
"Then thank Hecate for choosing you sister," said Diana. "I know you will be wise with these gifts."
"It was just logical for the goddess to choose me Diana," said Alexa. "My study of 'dead philosophers' can now come in handy. And besides dogs are the animals of the goddess."
Scooby-Doo hummed in confusion.
"And the moon is often her symbol as well," she said. "She's sought fit that given the company I've been keeping to have it be me who represented her."
"We can sort everything about that later," said Diana. "For now we need to...he's gone."
The three women looked up and saw Iron Face's body was missing.
"Again," Diana cursed.
"At least the threat is over," said Alexa, pulling off the mask, reverting her to her usual wear.
"For now little sister," Artemis said. "For now."
"Are we really sure about this?" asked Aquaman. "I mean pictures from a desert hermit aren't a lot to go on."
"Lester's mind is uniquely tuned to pick up extra-dimensional telepathic signals," said J'onn. "It is not without precedent."
The League examined the pictures J'onn had brought back from Scorpion Ridge while Diana returned from Crystal Cover after ensuring A.R.G.U.S put Mystery Incorporated's families into protection. Shaggy was still unconscious and resting in the medical wing of the Hall of Justice, the earthbound half of the League headquarters. All operations regarding this case relocated there for the time being, for fear that being near the moon in orbit would cause another transformation. The newly empowered Alexa at his side along with the dog Scooby. The Black Knight Ghost was still being examined by Dr. Fate, Constantine, and an on the mend Zatanna. Follow up investigations on the attack in Gotham and the incident in Crystal Cove were also underway.
"Should we be looking at securing the wolf guy?" asked Aquaman. "Sounds like he did kill that iron faced bastard. Not that I blame him, family's off limits."
"It's not that clear cut," said Batman, entering the conference room. "I took some cell samples from under Rogers's fingernails. The genetics of his attacker have been heavily modified. They were already healing. I doubt even that finishing wound would have kept that thing down. The level of modification is impressive. Almost similar to what I've seen of Hugo Strange's Monster Men."
"And if what we've turned up this Phibes, if we're assuming he's at the root of all this, started on the research Strange and other known mad scientists have built upon," said Superman. "And we gave our word we would respect Rogers's freedom. Although knowing you Bruce..."
"Only as a last resort Clark," said Batman. "As always."
"Not wanting to dredge up old wounds but I'm actually a little with Bats on this one Clark. He is a werewolf so there is still that risk," said Aquaman. "And how the hell could he transform fully without the full moon."
"Shagworth's research answers that," said Batman. "His nephew's condition is a heavily adaptive strain."
"In English please?" asked Aquaman.
"It's adapted to respond not just to the phases of the moon but to his own emotional responses," said Batman. "He recognized his attacker as the same one from when he first transformed as a child. The trauma triggered the full transformation."
"That explains that," said Wonder Woman. "But what I saw was more than just a werewolf's abilities. He and the dog, along with Alexa at the end, something happened with them. The energy they unleashed clashing with what was coming out of our attacker."
"Clearly they were tapping into the powers the dog is inherent to as an Annunaki descendant," said J'onn. "And because he was transformed and in an animal-like state, we may have seen the beginning of an Avatar."
"Great cartoon, good movie, not the adaptation of course," said Hal. "All seriousness though, I checked with the records on Oa. The Guardians are even wary of these Annunaki. Saying that, and I quote, 'beings from beyond the confines of this known universe are of such power as to give us considerable pause'. Which is short for, 'these guys freak us out bro'."
"Well that's comforting," said Flash.
"That being said a lot of what what those paintings tell checked out," said Hal. "The Annunaki were largely benevolent, helping in the initial evolution of several races. But legend of this entity is known. It began to enslave the world it was on and soon enough began to devour its populace before being banished."
"Then at least we're making some progress here. We have names and motives," said Flash.
Flash examined the pictures, putting together the issue.
"This is the main problem, this entity...Revolta," Flash said.
"We're going with that?" asked Aquaman.
"It's as good as anything and the spiders, which will haunt my nightmares, all match with the image Dell showed us," said Flash. "We also got the German connection. Alphonse Murnau Phibes, German scientist and composer, that piece The Witch of the Web is practically admitting that the two came into contact. The fact that Annunaki need half-human bodies as hosts for powerful Avatars give us a reason why the research on animal-human hybridization was so important and prominent in the collection. The cat-lady and the Jaguaro are likely part of that too. Same with the Pterodactyl-Man too I'm willing to bet."
"But what about these other things?" asked Aquaman. "The hunchbacks, the electrical dude, the freak that attacked the Watchtower, how they seem to come and go at will, and apparently some 'maidens' in trouble."
"That last one I believe helps explain the manner I found Rogers and Alexa in," said Diana. "She said he was agitated by the sound of another wolf. Likely an adolescent female calling out for help."
"That brings in another piece of data," said Batman. "The supposed vampire princess Revolta got in exchange for a shed exoskeleton."
"Coming from an old carnival barker," said Aquaman. "Just to keep in mind we're not entirely working with some credible sources."
"Noted," said Batman. "But looking at the geography of the region in question and its history and folklore, there may be more truth than we think."
"So you think some vampire princess and the werewolf kid, you guys think they're these 'maidens' that a mystical rock band told an unconscious Amazon about in a dream before she woke up as a witch?" Aquaman asked. "Again guys, I'm not discrediting, we're all literally weird shit, I'm just saying."
"We understand Arthur," said Diana. "I can attest to the fact that Hecate's has given Alexa a mantle of power. Compare the mask Alexa found when she awoke to the Helm of Fate. Constantine confirmed the mystical signature as that of the goddess. As well as confirmation that the Hex Girls are the real deal. Dinkley even confirmed a history with them."
"Professional or personal?" Hal remarked.
"A bit of both if I caught her tone correctly," Diana answered with a smirk. "And if you're worried Hal, yes when a witch you anger turns you into a frog, I will give you a pity kiss."
"I still come out on top in that scenario no matter what," Hal said.
"Just so long as you're not made into frog legs before Diana reaches you," said Flash.
"Jordon's inevitable curse aside, we should get back to the issue," said Batman.
"Of course," said Diana. "But indeed Hecate has offered her 'aid' in this."
"And we're sure it's aid?" asked Batman.
"I will admit Hecate isn't the first goddess I would have expected help from," said Diana. "She's something of a wild card I will admit. As the goddess of witchcraft and magic she is the patron of Circe. But that does not make her an evil goddess for certain. If these Hex Girls are to be believed she wishes for a positive representative among the Amazons and has chosen Alexa for that role. Again Dr. Fate is a fine example of the kind of scenario we're with now."
"Good example but why her if you don't mind me asking?" asked Superman.
"Of course not Kal," said Diana. "I believe Hecate has chosen Alexa because Alexa herself felt at a crossroads. A choice to stay safe, return to Themyscira, or continue on this adventure she had chosen for herself."
"It looks like she's made her choice," said Superman.
"Artemis is both proud and worried," said Diana. "I am too in a sense. But given Alexa's extensive scholarly knowledge she should be quite adept as a sorceress. Even though she's not biologically Homo Magi, that is where the mask seems to come in. Donning the mask seems to allow Alexa to access the inherent divine energies all Amazons are blessed with on some level thanks to our creation by the Gods of Olympus. Effectively drawing from that power and bringing it out as mystical energy she can manipulate."
"So in a way she's more like more a mix of Dr. Fate and Captain Marvel right?" asked Hal.
"In a sense yes," said Diana.
"That also kind of sounds like what J'onn said the Dog did," said Aquaman. "No offense to your sister."
"None taken Arthur, and if anything you're not wrong," said Diana. "Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, and Alexa, all three are of ancient and mystical bloodlines containing great power. For the three of them to come together like this, we're in the tethers of fate."
"Let's not quite jump to that conclusion as of now," said Batman.
"Even so Bruce, it's all leading up to something," said Diana. "I do not feel it was an accident Alexa found herself walking this road."
"So it is safe to say that only Alexa is privy to the powers of the mask," said J'onn.
"It may also be that the mask only works at night," said Diana. "Given Hecate's domain as a night goddess. So she might not be able to involve herself in the action until night. And even then she must speak the Goddess's name three times."
"Sound pretty convoluted," said Hal. "And this is coming from a guy who has to recite poetry to an alien battery to charge his ring."
"Never let it be said the gods aren't complicated," said Diana. "But for now, Alexa should be considered somewhat out of action."
"Speaking of action how long before we see some again?' asked Aquaman. "It seems like we've been plenty busy."
"All things are quiet now," said J'onn. "I believe our enemy found their recent attack unsatisfactory in achieving the desired result and is now contemplating their next move."
"But what was the result they wanted?" asked Hal.
"Rogers and the dog," said Batman. "If Phibes, and yes we should until otherwise consider him a living factor in this case, is trying to help Revolta achieve an Avatar form then studying a natural hybrid creature like a werewolf, who is descended from a family that has had generations of exposure to Annunaki energies would be valuable for study."
"So they used his family to try and get to him and attacked Gotham in hopes of getting him separate from League support," said Superman. "Or at least minimum League support."
"We should then also put protection around his uncle as well," said Diana. "Once that's ensured we can focus all our attention on finding the enemy and putting a stop to this madness."
"What about his old castle in Germany?" asked Flash. "Any chance that's up and running again."
"I had Mr. Terrific check with our European informants," said J'onn. "Based on all information we had of the Allied bombing raid's location there is nothing. Not even the rubble of where the castle once stood."
"Castles can be rebuild elsewhere," said Hal. "Maybe we should work the South America angle again. Check the jungles, even if we don't find a European style castle there might be a compound built up there."
"Mr. Terrific dispatched Vixen to check that very possibility," said J'onn. "And naturally the Question is looking into it."
"Of course," said Flash.
"In his defense this a legitimate conspiracy involving Nazis and extra-dimensional aliens," said Hal.
"General Lane's having A.R.G.U.S. look for anything based on known Nazi splinter groups and surviving collaborators," said Superman. "He'll let us know if found anything."
"Dinkley also mentioned that their own cases might have a lead," said Diana. "And hopefully Fate and the others can release the Professor's poor soul and he can tell us something before going to the rest he deserves."
"We could also take another look at the remains of the two we got on the Watchtower," said Flash. "This time being more cautious."
"Jason Blood is currently watching over them in the morgue," said Batman.
"All good points but what I still want to know is how these assholes get away all the time?" asked Aquaman. "I mean from what Diana told us this Iron Face bastard went the same way as our Chickenstein in the water and..."
"Was the moon shining on the water?" Batman asked. "In both cases?"
"Yeah," said Aquaman.
"I believe so why?" asked Diana.
"Then they were both lit and thus..."
"Reflective," Flash realized, following Batman's logic. "They could be using mirrors just like Mirror Master. Except I know he's enjoying time at Iron Heights along with the rest of the Rogues. But I can get access to his Mirror tech. If we come up against any other weirdos we can try and use it to follow them."
"Or at the least track them without risk to anyone," said Diana.
"We should also take the time to examine that scroll Jones secured," said Batman. "It was part of the original collection and may have information we can use to better understand Phibes and by that track him."
"I'll go over it along with Alexa," said Diana. "Once Rogers wakes up. She's refusing to leave his side."
"We should also look into Crystal Cove's geological history," said Batman.
"Significance?" asked Superman.
"In the art we were shown it depicted the Revolta entity not only being sealed in a crystal meteor prison but the splitting of the meteor which allowed its freedom when it impacted," said Batman. "Given what we've been able to determine so far we should make an educated guess that the half of the meteor which held the Revolta entity landed in Europe. But where did the rest of the meteor go?"
"You're thinking that the meteor landed in what is now Crystal Cove," Diana deduced. "Deep enough to become a mine and potentially with veins which can still be harvested. To refashion a prison or a weapon for this entity."
"Exactly," said Batman. "Besides, I find it a poor coincidence that an Annunaki presence would have been there for decades. Along with a family which has apparently been exposed to their energies for centuries."
"As if placing a future soldier near a valuable weapon," said Diana.
"The meteor could have lodged pretty deep. And the town is right by the sea. Given the size we're seeing in the paintings it was a damn big rock too. The whole geography of that area might have been different in the pre-Columbian era. Before European map-makers could get a look at it. An entire portion of that chunk of land could have been sunk. Along with more veins of crystals that go out seaward than inward towards land," said Aquaman. "I go and gather a team of Atlantean geologists to covertly take samples. I'll also have Vulko see if there are any records of the Annunaki in our own histories. The more information we have the better."
"We should also check the land based geological records too," said Flash.
"As above, so below," said Aquaman.
"We should also note how it seems this group is able to anticipate our movements," said Diana. "They almost instantly attacked Alexa and Rogers once they were out of Gateway City."
"You'll find almost every building houses spiders," said Batman. "And if they can travel through reflective surfaces they can watch through them as well."
"Then in that case on Earth almost everywhere is literally bugged," said Flash. "Even the Hall of Justice could be compromised."
"With all the defensive incantations I'd hope they'd offers some protection. But none the less we might have no choice but to accept we're being watched and listened to," said J'onn.
"Then if something happens in the field we rely on improvisation," said Superman. "But I want to bring us back to the motive. What's in it for Phibes in all of this?"
"According to Alexa the book she found has notes written in German," said Diana. "The writers sounded almost fanatical. The name of the opera is proof enough of that."
"More than that Diana," said Batman. "The Witch of the Web tells the story of a philosopher who, frustrated with the limitations of his world's science and the indifference of his gods, finds comfort in the songs of the Witch. The Witch, a drider, half-woman half-spider, weaves a song which entrances the philosopher who falls in love with her."
"I'm not liking where this is going so far," said Flash.
"I like to think of myself as a forward thinking guy, love is love and all that, you should see some of the alien hook-ups I've seen out there, but that is just plain wrong," said Hal.
"Is there more to the story?" asked J'onn.
"Only what survived and that's not much," said Batman. "The philosopher swore his eternal soul to the witch and promised their children would inherit the universe."
"Okay, I saw we have motive," said Hal. "Just not a very tasteful one."
"Men have done terrible things in the name of love just as they have in the name for power," said Diana. "And some people can find love in even the most monstrous of places."
Shaggy slept on one of the beds in the Hall's medical bay. Scooby-Doo lay across his legs and Alexa was at his side. Across from them Daphne Blake watched, keeping an eye on the expression on Alexa's face.
"So...your first week in Man's World and you suddenly find yourself on the run with a werewolf and a talking dog with an evil cabal apparently hunting and killing for objects of forbidden knowledge," said Daphne. "Bet ya didn't see that?"
"It...was a surprise," said Alexa.
She was now in her standard Amazon garb. The time for her power bestowed by the Goddess had passed. Now all she needed to be was Alexa.
"Never let it be said Shaggy doesn't show a girl a good time," said Daphne.
Alexa chuckled at that.
"Still, sorry you had to get dragged into all of this," said Daphne. "We tried to keep it to where hopefully there wouldn't be anyone else dragged into our crap but...best laid plans and all that."
"Perhaps it's for the best given the power of these villains you race against," said Alexa.
"Maybe," said Daphne. "But when we found out about Shaggy the last thing we wanted was for him to be treated like an animal and put in one of those horrible super-prisons. Or worse killed because people can't see the man under the wolf. Shaggy might have always had his knees a knocking on every case but he was always there. He stuck with it through and through. Some people think rushing head first into danger makes you brave but we all know that's just stupidity. It's when you're terrified to the bone and still keep going that really shows what courage you have. That's the kind of guy Shaggy's always been with us. Not some wild animal to be put down. We were so afraid that if the truth reached one of...one of the Masks as Fred likes to call them, that's all they'd see him as."
Alexa looked down at Shaggy and gently stroked his face.
"That's not what I see," she said.
"You know Shaggy and I almost dated," said Daphne. "A little after he and Velma tried but that didn't work out. She found the water more appealing than the hot dog in that case."
Scooby-Doo released a psychic snicker.
"I don't..."
"Inside joke," said Daphne. "It didn't last, Fred finally found the guts and Shag was lone wolfing again. Though I think he found a type, redheads. And I guess a bit of Velma's bookish nature helped."
Daphne gestured to the books to Alexa's side.
"Guess he just needed the right mix," said Daphne. "Although I think he did at least have one wild night with the Hex Girls. So, you're really a mix of everything."
"Coming in threes," Alexa muttered.
"Huh?" Daphne asked.
"Hecate is referred to as the Three Form Goddess," said Alexa. "Scholar, red hair, and mystic as you said. And now with me Hecate now has three known agents on this earth. Circe, these Hex Girls, and myself. Even the Hex Girls represent the three aspects of witchcraft."
"And with you there are now three Amazons officially active in Man's World now aren't there?" Daphne noted.
"Yes," said Alexa.
"And stop me if I'm wrong but Diana, the Roman name for the goddess Artemis, are involved with the moon just like Hecate aren't they right?" asked Daphne.
"Your intuition serves you well," said Alexa.
"Always has," said Daphne. "And I'm not entirely betting on coincidence."
"In my world, there is no coincidence," said Alexa. "There is only fate."
"Maybe," said Daphne. "So...you like him don't you?"
"Yes, I do believe he's a good man and..."
"That's not what I mean," said Daphne.
Alexa blushed at what Daphne insinuated.
"I'm curious as well," said Artemis, walking up to the two other redheads.
"Sister this is hardly the time and I'm quite tired," said Alexa.
"Yes, making a deal with a goddess behind my back must be tiring," said Artemis.
"You're the one who left me tied in the invisible jet," said Alexa. "Unconscious I might add."
"And my efforts to keep you out of trouble have thus failed," said Artemis.
"And now I am going into this business, with the blessing of a goddess," said Alexa. "And with all the knowledge I've ever picked up from 'long dead philosophers' being put to good and practical use."
"No argument sister, I can see now it's fruitless to try and keep you from this," said Artemis. "But I will insist you and I stay close. Especially with the wolf."
"Whom I already tamed," Alexa said.
"I meant for his sake," said Artemis. "Centuries of repressed desire in one prudish package is a dangerous thing to unleash all at once."
"Sister!" Alexa yelled, bright red while Scooby and Daphne chuckled.
But of course Artemis did want to ensure Alexa was at least going into this venture with care. While she didn't entirely trust Hecate, knowing the goddess to be a wild card, she knew her sister was wise enough to use the power wisely. Artemis had to admit it that her sister was a fine scholar and no doubt had absorbed all the knowledge of magic that the Amazons had gathered over the centuries. With the abilities now bestowed onto her as a Champion for the goddess Hecate she could use that knowledge to fight. In a way becoming her own kind of warrior now.
Then of course there was the obvious attraction she could see Alexa developing for the wolfman Rogers. In spite her joking, there was a bit of the overprotective sister taking over. As such for now she would chaperone at least until she was entirely certain about the werewolf's intents toward her sister. But assuming that indeed Alexa had subjugated the wolf through Amazon loving authority, she felt there was little to worry for.
"Gotta say, some pretty wild cases," said Superman.
"Tell me about it," said Velma. "Who knew so many real estate developers were so cutthroat."
"I could tell you stories," said Superman.
Velma and Fred were working with Flash and Superman going through all Mystery Inc.'s old casefiles. Along with the reports of the incidents in which the artifacts of the Phibes Collection as they were calling had been taken.
"Wild as they are I'm still not entirely seeing a connection," said Flash. "I mean a lot of your past cases were committed largely by people who used elaborate, albeit advanced, disguises. Some transformation serums here or there but with what we've seen, aside from Chickenstein, the Eye-Ball monster, and the robots, were supernatural."
"We just have to look carefully Flash," said Superman. "We're bound to find some kind of a connection? We can already see similarities in the cases. The tech, equipment, and techniques used all do seem to have a similar enough make-up to them."
"I won't deny that, clearly someone has been supplying," said Flash. "But what makes us so certain it's our guy?"
"The fact that Phibes was already working to make monsters for the Nazis," said Fred. "Without Hitler to bankroll things he'd need a new cash income over the years. And there's more than just what we did. There are scores of incidents between now and World War II."
"Superman, General Lane is on hold," said the voice of Mr. Terrific via the comm. "Says he's got some intel for us."
"Patch him through," siad Superman.
The holographic display shifted and the image of General Lane appeared. Fred saluted at the decorated officer, despite no longer being in the service.
"At ease son," said Sam. "I've looked you up by the way. You did good work Jones."
"Thank you sir," said Fred. "I trust you're...aware of my group."
"In only the important ways son," said Sam. "We have a bigger, clearly more hostile issue to deal with."
"What do you have for us then General?" asked Superman.
"The Martian caught me up to speed on your current theory that there's a connection between Mystery Inc's old cases and the current threat," said Sam.
"A bit of a hunch sir," said Velma.
"A good one ma'am," said Sam. "Your past cases have a lot in common with certain files I've managed to dig up. I initially interrogated some surviving party members or allies. Didn't have to go far, the Ultra-Humanite. I have him on a secure line from Ryker's."
A holographic image of a giant albino gorilla with an enlarged cranium seated in chains in a bulletproof glass cage was brought up. The Ultra-Humanite, perhaps the first true super-villain, an original foe of the Justice Society of America, and a brain switching super-genius often bent on world domination.
"He's agreed to tell us what he knows in exchange for Superman speaking on his behalf with the parole board about a sentence reduction," said Sam.
"If his information checks out I'll do just that," said Superman.
"Then I shall endeavor to be as helpful as can be," said the Humanite. "Let me start by saying I wish it on the record that I found Hitler distasteful. I full intended to at some point switch out my brain with his and seize control of the Nazi regime once total victory was achieved. Hopefully to do something more tasteful with the world after his horrors. Even a megalomaniac as I has his limits. But that is neither here nor there. When General Lane began making his inquiries, with what little data you gave him, I was able to deduce the meaning. Alphonse Murnau Phibes, as I'm sure you've come to find out, was indeed a rather talented individual. Htiler, the mad dog that he was, did have a talent for bringing together and providing for some of the greatest scientific talent of the time, mad or otherwise. Along with myself, fleeing the law in America, there was Phibes. A young prodigy whose family were used to controversy, he had devoted much of his inheritance to the cause. Including his family's private mercenary force, the Ogres as they were called. His father's own work on the practical application of transplants had been perfected by his son. To both praise and mockery in Berlin, Phibes had often been called the Heir of Frankenstein for his...methods. Although Phibes seemed to enjoy, as he was quite taken with the motion picture horror films of the recent decades. Enjoying that he shared a name with the director of 'Nosferatu: A symphony of horror', a personal favorite of his. Along with with the more contemporary talking film works of Legosi and Karloff, Phibes had been inspired to offer Hitler an army of man-made monsters. Even impressing with some he had already made himself. Including the bizarre combination of a Karloff-esq flesh Golem and local livestock."
"Chickenstein," Flash muttered.
"With that, while Phibes had talents in many fields, even designing several attack robots for heavy artillery to be used against the Justice Society, his true passion was in animal-human hybridization," said Humanite. 'Securing funding by playing into Hitler's obsession with the occult by weaving his theories of the Annunaki. Needless to say Hitler went for it. But also commissioned Phibes for his standard projects. Such as creating artificial monsters meant for both heavy physical and psychological warfare. Some of his research on the subject actually did survive. General Lane can tell you the rest."
"Thank you," said Superman. "And I will be sure to speak to the parole board at their next meeting."
With that the Ultra-Humanite's image was gone. Sam forwarded several digital files and images. Included were images of what looked like classical monsters from films, dressed in army uniforms.
"Once we were given that to go on I did some digging and he was right. Just like the rest of the Nazi science Operation: Paperclip picked up we made use of this as well," said Sam.
"I'm guessing that's not just the promo for movie?" said Flash.
"That's no make-up effect son," said Sam. "This is Project M, M for Monster."
"My god," said Fred.
"When the Justice Society of America went underground to avoid HUAC, the government realized that there would still be a need for an elite strike force to tackle paranormal threats to the country," said Sam. "Several para-military and super science groups arose in the 50's and early 60's to fill the void left by the JSA. The Challengers of the Unknown, Sea Devils, and the original Task Force X to name a few. Project M was another such contribution. This unit, dubbed by themselves as the Creature Commandos, were comprised of various 'volunteers' for radical treatment."
"Define volunteers," said Superman.
"Largely military stockade prisoners, asylum patients, one accidental exposure to chemicals, and in one case a severely injured young private who was desperate to have a working body again after a landmine incident. They weren't the modern Suicide Squad by any real means but because the treatments couldn't be reversed they had no real place to go other than with the unit," said Sam. "They were deployed in various missions in Korea and Vietnam as well as other hot spots meant to give the Soviets a good scare."
"And the Soviet Union never attempted to call attention to this?" asked Flash. "Or even make accusations towards the U.S."
"They likely didn't want to appear superstitious and cowardly in front of the west," said Velma. "Easier to take the loss and cover it up than lose face on an international stage."
"Exactly the reasoning behind the operation," said Sam. "They did good work too."
"What happened to these Creature Commandos?" asked Superman.
"Officially MIA," said Sam. "An attempt to utilize our fledgling space program as a cover for radical troop deployment. Launch a rocket into space, have it sling around Earth and deploy specialty launch modules containing our troops behind enemy lines. Hard for the enemy to detect or defend against. Supposedly lost in a gravitational anomaly. Since then the project has been abandoned. But Mystery Inc.'s files tell me someone has used similar methods to arm criminals for years. Potentially decades but ensuring that the transformations desired aren't permanent."
"Phibes has likely been perfecting the procedure," said Velma. "In fact...what if that's the answer?"
"Elaborate," said Fred.
"What if the monsters we've been noticing are the ultimate evolution of Phibes's procedure?" Velma postulated. "The gimmicks he gave out to all the crooks were likely just his bare table-scraps. Something good enough just to get their money to fund his research. But all the while he perfected the concept he sold."
"Gathering data from actual supernatural creatures like the werecat and most of all from Revolta," said Fred. "Combining that with his own technical and medical knowledge that had been used to create the Creature Commandos and all the disguises of the punks we got then..."
"The it's likely that any of the creatures we've been encountering could be the final result," said Velma. "A disguise which fully transforms a person into a monster. But could be removed, reverting to human. But that's my best theory."
"Well if you're right then Phibes could be set up to launch a whole new area of super-crime," said Flash. "Instant monster super-soldiers with almost no drawback and an easy way to hide your crimes."
"I doubt that's the endgame for him though," said Superman. "And like you said it's only a theory for now."
"We'd have to catch another monster to be sure," said Velma. "One we could put to proper examination. That could give us a direct lead to Phibes."
"So the next monster attack needs to ensure capture," said Superman. "And given our luck as of late we should let Arthur know."
"He's already left for Atlantis by now," said Flash. "He should let us know when he's close to Crystal Cove though. I'll head down too and start looking at the Land Survey records."
"I'll come too," said Velma.
"We should also look into some of the monsters we know about," said Superman. "What was the last known location of Henry Bascome's craft before it was destroyed."
"Sending you the coordinates now. It's been decades so who knows what you'll find but good luck," said Sam. "And keep us posted, this is getting a lot of heads turning. If you get my drift."
The implication was clear and with that the general cut communication.
In the throne room of Atlantis, it's king materialized to the surprise of the court.
"Your highness, dramatic as ever," said his advisor Vulko, swimming up to his king.
At his side Arthur's wife Mera, who went to her husband's side.
"Needed to get here quick," said Aquaman. "Vulko, how long would it take to arrange a team of geologists for an expedition? I also need equipment and a mobile lab with consultants from the Consortium of Magic. I'd also like it if any equipment can be used quietly without raising too much attention. We'll be fairly close to the surface, not hostile but I don't want to freak the locals if I can help it. Though we may find trouble coming our way none the less."
"I can arrange it all within the hour though it would help if they knew what they were digging for to ensure they have the proper equipment," said Vulko. "I can't speak to how much attention it would draw but I'm sure they can work something."
"I'm going to be leading them to search for crystaline meteor fragments that might be lodged in the sea close to a seaside town," said Aquaman. "Special crystals once used to house an extra-dimensional entity, an Annunaki. I also want to know if there are any records of our ancestors having any interactions with beings of that name. They apparently visited Earth centuries ago and any intel I can get will help. The one I'm concerned with is proven hostile and malevolent."
"I will consult with the records but it may take some time," said Vulko. "Once I've arranged your expedition of course."
"You already have your consultant," said Mera. "Who better than the Headmistress?"
Aquaman had by now learned never to argue with his queen and nodded. Besides if anything did try to attack them he knew Mera could dish out an ass-kicking even better than he could.
"Alright," he said.
"Now mind telling me what this is all about?" she asked, or rather she ordered with the politest tone she had.
Shaggy had woken up, naturally with an appetite. Thankfully the Watchtower mess hall was stocked enough to feed someone like the Flash. As such meeting Shaggy's needs were met.
Once his stomach was filled and he was told that his sister and mother were safe, he took to the gym. A natural gymnast Shaggy was put through the paces by the League's advanced equipment. From a beam, launching himself from his fingers, Shaggy landed masterfully.
"Ten out of ten," said Fred, tossing Shaggy a towel.
"Thanks man," said Shaggy.
Fred then handed Shaggy a bottle of water, which Shaggy eagerly drained.
"Glad you got to your mom and Maggie alright," said Fred.
"Like I'm just glad they're safe," said Shaggy. "So like what now?"
"Aquaman's going to look into finding any underwater crystals that might have come from that prison this entity Revolta was part of," said Fred. "Close to town, Batman reasons that the mines might be the result of a that impact."
"Groovy," Shaggy said somewhat sarcastically.
"Velma and Flash are also going down to the town to check the geological records," said Fred. "Superman's also going to get a crew together to look into another potential lead. All in all Velma's theory might hold water and everyone wants to go on the offensive now."
"So we're all 'splitting up' again," said Shaggy.
"Yeah, and hopefully we can get this done quick and get out from these...people," said Fred. "You really stepped in it Shag. Seriously, you couldn't just knock the Amazon out and take the book?"
"No one gets hurt Fred, we agreed to that," said Shaggy.
"We also agreed to avoid the masks," said Fred. "Our priority was getting you fixed. Now that's spiraled all to hell."
"This isn't just about me Fred," said Shaggy. "I'm not the only one in trouble."
"That 'young wolf' bit again?" asked Fred.
"I know what it was," said Shaggy. "Young, feminine, calling for help. She was scared too."
"You know for a guy who spent so long luring creeps into my cages you sure don't seem to recognize bait when you see it," said Fred.
"I know she was bait Fred," said Shaggy. "But like that doesn't mean we should do like, nothing."
"Just keep focused on the mission," said Fred. "We're already in deep with the League, fine I can work with that. For now, but once we get that book we are gone before these bastards try anything."
"They're the good guys," said Shaggy.
"They're masks," Fred growled. "You honestly think there's anything they say that can be believed while they hide themselves like they do? You honestly believe Batman isn't packing silver in that belt just for you? And now, you helped make a new one. And she might not be wanting you in a cage but it sure sounds like she's got you an a leash."
Shaggy let out a growl, getting right in Fred's face. Fred put up his hands and backed up
"Low blow, low blow," said Fred.
Shaggy took a breath and drew back his claws, literally.
"Just don't forget, masks make people cruel," said Fred. "Even people we love."
Fred turned without another word. Shaggy signed, realizing that Fred was likely having it rough with all these masked men and women around and just looking out for his friend.
On the subject of friends, Shaggy knew he wasn't quite so alone.
"You can come out now," Shaggy said.
Scooby-Doo dropped the light psychic field, revealing bot him and Alexa. Shaggy noticed that Alexa, in addition to having changed into her traditional Amazon garb, was holding the golden mask in her hands.
"How long did you know?" Alexa asked.
"I always know when Scooby's close by and I smelled you," said Shaggy. "Guess Scooby wanted to cover you from Fred."
"I would have thought he would have been able to see," said Alexa.
"Fred might have hung around Scooby a lot but he doesn't know all the old tricks," said Shaggy.
"He also isn't from a bloodline which has had centuries of exposure to Annunaki energies," said Alexa.
"That too," said Shaggy. "Like, how are you? You know, dealing with...that?"
Alexa looked at the golden mask in hand.
"Can't be easy suddenly having a literal 'deus ex machina' pop into your life," said Shaggy.
"On the contrary the Gods often suddenly offer their blessings," said Alexa. "It tends to make them rather...spontaneous."
"Yeah but...how do you feel about it?" asked Shaggy.
"I feel slightly conflicted to be the chosen representative of a goddess," said Alexa. "And Hecate is one of the most mysterious of the gods."
"But you're sure it's her that gave you this?" Shaggy asked.
"I've been sure to check it and indeed it is from the goddess," said Alexa. "But I can also have it checked by some of Diana's allies if you're not too sure. Dr. Fate or Zatanna or..."
"If you say it's good then it is," said Shaggy. "I trust you."
"You...you do?" Alexa asked.
"You came to help me when...when I really needed it," said Shaggy. "Probably kept mom and Maggie safe too. Besides, you trusted me not to hurt you. It's...what friends do."
"What friends Scooby-Dooby-Doo," Scooby said, earning a laugh from the two.
Shaggy then recalled that she had heard what Fred had said.
"And like, listen, don't let what Fred said get to you he..."
"Scooby informed me of Mr. Jones's...history," said Alexa. "His father's crimes must weigh heavy on him."
"They didn't exactly have the best relationship before," said Shaggy. "Kind of fell all through when his dad went away."
"But your father took him in," said Alexa.
"Yeah," said Shaggy.
"It was kind of him, to ensure that he was not left alone in such a vulnerable time," said Alexa. "To be close to a friend when one was needed. He does care for you, I can see that."
"Still, didn't mean he had to say what he said," said Shaggy. "About...the League I mean."
"I'm sure there are those who would understand," said Alexa.
"Also didn't excuse what he said about...about you," said Shaggy.
"I did not mind," said Alexa. "And I technically did have you on a leash."
Both Shaggy and Alexa were plagued by crimson cheeks. Scooby let out a psychic snicker at their mutual embarrassment.
"Like...anyway, so that's a gift from Hecate, some big time goddess right?" Shaggy asked, desperate to get the conversation moving.
"Oh, yes," said Alexa. "Although she is of my native pantheon, Hecate is not usually listed among the Olympians. She is one of the more mysterious of the gods. A 'wild card' as you would say in Man's World. And as I said before, this is indeed hers."
"But like why a mask?" Shaggy asked.
"What?" asked Alexa.
"I mean why a mask?" Shaggy asked. "I've seen a lot if images of Amazons who come with Wonder Woman. Artemis, Wonder Girl, and like even a few images of Queen Hippolyta. They don't usually feature masks as part of their armor. Like, except for some who wear combat helmets but this is different."
"It's modeled after Greek drama masks," said Alexa. "But...you're right we often don't feature these kind on the island. We have theatrical productions yes but not quite like with masks like this."
"Like would it have had to be a mask?" asked Shaggy. "I mean with some superheroes who are supposed to have divine blessings they just need the name don't they?"
"Those are classified as Champions," said Alexa. "And I do indeed need to chant the Goddess's name. Three times, at night, as is her domain."
"Like those are some weird rules," said Shaggy.
"Three formed goddess," said Alexa.
"Yeah, but still like why a mask again?" Shaggy asked, going back to the original issue. "Like she could have used a tiara couldn't she?"
"I suppose," said Alexa.
Shaggy put his hand to his chin in thought.
"What are you thinking?" Alexa asked.
While Shaggy would admit in their crew people like Velma and Fred were often the ones who caught onto the clues fastest, he wasn't as much a slouch as some thought.
"I think your goddess is trying to tell us something," said Shaggy. "Velma thinks that our old cases have a link to this one. Even with the actual supernatural element there is a connection and I like think, maybe Hecate's giving us a clue."
"A clue to what?" Alexa asked.
"I'm not sure," said Shaggy.
Shaggy reached down carefully at the mask, where his and Alexa's fingers touched. This light contact reverberated through the both of them.
"Like...sorry I..."
"No, no, it's...it's alright," Alexa said. "Um, when I met the Hex Girls...oh Daphne said you and the Hex Girls..."
"Like it was after a big concert we went to and well we...like we all got a little too much that night," said Shaggy. "But like it..."
"Oh, it's alright," said Alexa. "Everyone has a past even...even though I...I..."
"Oh," said Shaggy. "And I guess since Hecate was...well you know."
"Oh, yes Hecate was a virgin goddess," said Alexa. "But she...she doesn't necessarily demand it of her disciples. And...and when I spoke to them they had said you...imprinted on me."
"Like...sorry it's just that..."
Alexa placed her fingers on Shaggy's lips and smiled. Shaggy's eyes then darted down to Scooby-Doo. The dog got the message and walked out of the gym. When he did he noticed the elder Amazon sister Artemis leaning by the door, arms crossed and a satisfied smirk on her face.
"You're not going to interrupt?" Scooby asked.
"All my teasing aside I know my sister's a good judge of character," said Artemis. "Besides Hera knows she need some...experience and...she's proven good with knots. Am I right?"
Scooby let out another telepathic snicker, confirming things to Artemis.
"Our little beast is back in her cage along with her miserable sisters," the master said. "But our newest initiate is quite indisposed for the time being."
"He should recover well soon sir," said Brunch.
"They are close to realizing their potential," said the mistress. "We must begin the process. I must be able to unleash all of my power upon them. To be truly free to enjoy all this world's...tasty pleasures."
A smirk formed on the master's metallic face.
"Then we must hurry," he said. "But no doubt they will be going on the offensive and..."
The grumbling voice of Crunch echoed through the darkened chamber as said hunchback came and bowed before his lords.
"Crunch says that an asset station is at risk of being compromised," said Brunch. "The one designed by our late collaborator Frau Gluch. No doubt the Justice League and Mystery Incorporated are hunting for..."
The mistress released a howl which silenced the hunchback.
"I thought we ensured all was tapped from that station?" the master asked sternly.
"As far as we know sire," said Brunch. "But Atlanteans are moving close. They don't know about the station yet but..."
"Ensure not a single Atlantean ever sees their fabled lost city again," said the master. "And if their monarch is there, ensure his death as well. We must not allow any of that dreaded substance to be found. Destroy the facility and if any of those meddlers are there bury them with it. And I must hurry with my work. Now that I have finally collected all my old research I may combine it with all I have learned since. And I shall bring you to completion my love. My goddess...Revolta"
From the dark above them, a long spider leg dropped down and began to caress the master's metallic face.
"Yes, my dear Alphonse, it is finally time," Revolta said.
Wrapping the blanket around herself, the young girl fought back tears. Her elder sister, or who she thought to be a big sister to her, stroked her hair gently, trying to offer some comfort.
In the cell across from them their other sisters watched sadly. The large one held back by chains. Another placed in a glass orb. The smallest held onto the largest, her little bandaged hands trembling slightly.