The crisp December air filled Central Park as Zack and Dick walked along the winding paths. The trees, bare of leaves, cast long shadows in the late afternoon sun. Zack tried to push his worries about school aside, focusing instead on his friend.
Dick: (smiling) So, I've got some big news. Koriand'r and I are getting married.
Zack stopped in his tracks, looking at Dick with a mixture of surprise and confusion.
Zack: (confused) Since when have you two been together?
Dick: (casually) We got together last year.
Zack: (eyes widening) Does Barbara know?
Dick fell silent, the cheerful expression fading from his face. Zack's realization hit him like a ton of bricks, and his voice rose with anger and disbelief.
Zack: (shouting) Did you cuckold Barbara with Koriand'r?
Dick: (stammering) I mean, I-I... uh...
Zack: (cutting him off, furious) Did you have sex with her while Barbara was paralyzed and now you're getting married?
Dick looked down, unable to meet Zack's eyes, the weight of the accusation heavy on his shoulders.
Dick: (softly) Yes.
Zack: (disgusted) You're an asshole, Dick. How could you do that to her?
The air between them grew tense and heavy. Zack shook his head, the weight of Dick's betrayal hitting him hard. He had always looked up to Dick, seeing him as a leader and a friend, but this revelation shattered that image.
Zack: (sighing) How could you do that to Barbara? She trusted you, depended on you.
Dick: (struggling) I never meant for it to happen this way. I... I care about Barbara, but Koriand'r and I... it just happened.
Zack: (angry) That's not an excuse. You hurt her, Dick. She deserves better than that. You need to make things right.
Dick: (nodding) I know, Zack. I know.
Zack: Was this what Jason's death cost you, Dick? Was it worth it?
Dick: (sharply) What are you talking about?
Zack: (bitterly) You know, no wonder you left Batman and became Nightwing. Jason became the new Robin, and then he died at the hands of the Joker. I bet that hit you hard.
Dick's face hardened, and he snapped, his voice sharp with anger.
Dick: (furious) Respect Jason Todd's death, Zack. You have no idea what he meant to me!
Zack: (laughing derisively) Oh, come on, Dick. It's not hard to see the connection. You couldn't handle Batman's pressure, so you left. And now everything's falling apart.
Dick's anger boiled over. Without warning, he swung his fist and landed a solid punch to Zack's face. Zack staggered back and fell to the ground, his face stinging from the blow. He looked up at Dick, who stood over him, shouting.
Dick: (furious) Shut up! Just shut up!
the park fell into a heavy silence as Zack lay on the ground, his face contorted with pain. He slowly pushed himself up, his eyes meeting Dick's with a mixture of anger and disappointment.
Zack: (bitterly) No wonder me and Donna left the team. Look at how you've led us into failure, Dick. The Titans are falling apart because of you especially after that last mission last year.
Dick: (panting, angry) You don't understand everything that's happened!
Zack: (standing up, defiantly) I don't need to understand. I see the results. The team's a mess, and you're to blame.
With a final glare, Zack stand up, turned around and started to walk away, his movements fueled by a mix of rage and disillusionment.
Zack: (over his shoulder) Fuck off and get lost... Dick.
As Zack walked away, leaving Dick standing alone in the park, the weight of their fractured friendship hung heavily in the air. Dick watched him go, his own frustration and guilt gnawing at him as he faced the consequences of his actions and decisions
Dick: Am i really change...
The dark alley was cloaked in shadows, the only light coming from the flickering street lamps casting eerie patterns on the walls. Cyclops, in his new suit, a blend of blackish-red and brownish-red depending on the lighting, moved cautiously through the dimly lit passage. His suit was designed with a large X cutout on his mask, giving him a menacing yet futuristic appearance.
Cyclops: (muttering to himself) Did I really hurt my best friend's feelings?
As Cyclops continued down the alley, a sudden distortion in the air signaled the appearance of a portal. Cyclops immediately tensed, his instincts kicking in as he prepared to defend himself. From the swirling vortex stepped a man clad in a red and black suit, loaded with pouches, a belt, and weapon holsters, dual katanas strapped to his back.
Deadpool: (stepping out of the portal) Cyclops, you need to come with me!
Cyclops: (demanding) Who the fuck are you?
Deadpool: (grinning) I'm Deadpool from Earth-10005! And on behalf of all humanity, it just feels right! We'll treat you so much better than the shit-fucking goddamn author who keeps fucking the plot of this story, starting from Vol 1.! Final battle and ending!
Deadpool suddenly looked beside him and broke the fourth wall, addressing an unseen audience with a playful wink.
Deadpool: Am I right, reader? ;)
Cyclops, bewildered, looked beside Deadpool but saw nothing out of the ordinary. He turned back to Deadpool, confusion evident on his face.
Cyclops: (perplexed/confuse) What the fuck was that?
Deadpool: (nonchalantly) Oh, that was nothing. You need to come with me.
Cyclops: (interrupting) You would just leaving?
Deadpool: (trying to explain) Well, sir, about fate in my unive-(moan in pain)
Before Deadpool could finish, Cyclops released a powerful optic blast, hitting Deadpool squarely.
The blast sent Deadpool flying back into the portal, which began to close immediately after.
Deadpool: (shouting as he's pulled into the portal) I'm sure we'll meet again!
The portal snapped shut with a final whoosh, leaving Cyclops alone in the alley. Cyclops looked at the empty space where Deadpool had been, shaking his head in irritation.
Cyclops: (grumbling) Shitty weirdo.
The crime scene was cordoned off by yellow police tape, flashing red and blue lights illuminating the dark street. Cyclops made his way through the gathered onlookers, his presence marked by the familiar X-shaped cutout of his mask. He stepped carefully over the debris, arriving at the center where Captain Stacy stood, a look of grim determination on his face.
Captain Stacy: (relieved) Cyclops, you're finally here.
Cyclops: (nods) Captain Stacy. What happened?
Captain Stacy: (gesturing to the covered body) We've got a murder on our hands. But the weird part is, we can't find any clue as to how he died. It's like the killer vanished into thin air.
Cyclops scanned the scene with a sharp gaze, taking in every detail. His attention was drawn to something in the shattered window, a small object catching the light.
Cyclops: (pointing) Wait a second... Wait stay here captain?
He walked over, careful not to disturb any potential evidence, and reached into the window frame to retrieve the object. He held it up for Captain Stacy to see: an ace of spades playing card.
Captain Stacy: (confuSE) An Ace Card?
Cyclops: (affirming) Yes, this is the calling card. I know who murdered this man.
Captain Stacy: (leaning in, intrigued) Who was it?
Cyclops: (grimly) Bullseye.
The name hung heavy in the air, the weight of years of enmity evident in Cyclops's tone.
Cyclops: (explaining) Bullseye has been my archenemy for five years. He can use almost any object as a lethal projectile shuriken, sai, even playing cards and pencils. His marksmanship is uncanny, almost at a supernatural level.
Captain Stacy: (in disbelief) So you're saying this guy can kill people with playing a card?
Cyclops: (nodding) Yes, and what's more puzzling is that he promised me he was quitting his job as an assassin villain just last month of november??
Captain Stacy: (concerned) But why? I thought you said he promised to quit his job as an assassin villain last month.
Cyclops: (sighs) He did. He swore he was done with this life.
Captain Stacy: (inquisitive) Then what's his motive this time?
Cyclops: (thoughtful) Hard to say. But Bullseye never acts without a purpose. There must be a reason, something i can't not seeing yet.
Captain Stacy: (determined) We'll need to find out what he's up to before he strikes ag-
Cyclops: (interrupting) Captain, don't worry. I'll handle this.
Captain Stacy turned to Cyclops, his eyes filled with concern. He respected Cyclops's abilities but understood the personal stakes involved.
Captain Stacy: (worried) Are you sure, Cyclops? You'll be okay handling this on your own?
Cyclops: (nodding, resolute) Yes, I can. Bullseye and I have been at this for five years. We know each other's moves inside and out.
Cyclops paused, looking out over the scene, his mind running through the years of battles and narrow escapes. He knew Bullseye's patterns, his strengths, and weaknesses.
Cyclops: (continuing) This isn't just another mission, Captain. It's personal. And that's why I know I can take him down.
Captain Stacy: (sighing) I trust you, Cyclops. Just be careful. Bullseye is unpredictable, and he's dangerous.
Cyclops: (determined) I know. But I have to stop him. This ends now.
Captain Stacy nodded, understanding the weight of Cyclops's words. He stepped back, allowing Cyclops to take the lead in the investigation. There was a mutual respect between them, a recognition of the burden they both carried.
Captain Stacy: (supportive) If you need backup, you know where to find us.
Cyclops: (appreciative) Thanks, Captain. I'll keep that in mind.
With a final glance at the crime scene, Cyclops turned and walked away, his mind already focused on finding Bullseye.
The underground laboratory of Luthor Corp was a hive of activity, filled with the hum of high-tech machinery and the glow of various monitors. Scientists in white lab coats moved about, their faces illuminated by the soft blue light of the screens.
Scientist 1: (concerned, staring at a monitor) This can't be right...
Scientist 2: (walking over) What's wrong?
Scientist 1: (pointing at the screen) The solar flare energy readings are fluctuating. If this continues, the entire system could destabilize.
Scientist 2: (eyes widening) We need to inform Mr. Luthor immediately. Stay here and keep monitoring. I'll go tell him.
Scientist 1: (nodding) Go, and hurry.
Scientist 2 rushed through the labyrinthine corridors of Luthor Corp's underground facility, his footsteps echoing off the metallic walls. He navigated past security checkpoints and other labs, his heart pounding with urgency.
Finally, he reached Lex Luthor's office, a grand room lined with bookshelves and dominated by a large desk. Luthor stood by the window, staring out at the cityscape.
Scientist 2: (breathless) Mr. Luthor, we have a problem.
Lex Luthor: (turning, eyebrows raised) What is it?
Scientist 2: (urgent) The solar flare energy readings are fluctuating. If we don't address it soon, the entire system could destabilize.
Lex Luthor: (frowning) How severe is the issue?
Scientist 2: (worried) It's critical. We need to shut down the project and recalibrate the system immediately.
Lex Luthor: (thinking, then decisive) No shutdowns. Make the necessary adjustments on the fly. We can't afford any delays.
Scientist 2: (nervous) But sir, it's risky. If we don't handle this carefully, we could—
Lex Luthor: (cutting him off) I said no shutdowns. Do whatever it takes to stabilize the readings. Failure is not an option.
Scientist 2: (reluctantly) Understood, Mr. Luthor.
Scientist 2 hurried back to the lab, his mind racing with the daunting task ahead. Meanwhile, Scientist 1 continued to monitor the erratic readings, his fingers flying over the keyboard as he tried to keep the system stable.
Scientist 2: (returning, to Scientist 1) Luthor says no shutdowns. We need to make the adjustments while it's still running.
Scientist 1: (grimly) This is going to be tricky. But we have no choice.
The two scientists worked frantically, their faces tense with concentration as they attempted to stabilize the volatile solar flare energy.
Cyclops sprinted across the rooftop, his boots pounding against the concrete as he pursued Bullseye. The assassin was quick, darting between chimneys and vents with an agility that made him hard to pin down.
Cyclops: (yelling) Stop running, Bullseye!
Bullseye glanced over his shoulder, a wicked grin spreading across his face.
Bullseye: (mocking) Too slow, Cyclops!
Cyclops narrowed his eyes, frustration boiling inside him. He focused, aiming a precise optic blast at Bullseye's retreating figure. The red beam sliced through the air, but Bullseye was already moving, effortlessly flipping over the blast and landing on the next rooftop.
Bullseye: (laughing) You'll have to do better than that!
Cyclops gritted his teeth, not letting Bullseye's taunts get to him. He fired again, this time aiming slightly ahead of Bullseye's path. But Bullseye anticipated the move, rolling to the side and ducking behind a large vent.
Bullseye: (teasing) You know, for a guy with laser eyes, you sure do miss a lot.
Cyclops: (frustrated) Keep talking, Bullseye. Let's see how long you can keep dodging.
Bullseye popped up from behind the vent, tossing a small object in Cyclops's direction. Cyclops recognized it instantly a playing card. Before it could reach him, Cyclops fired another optic blast, disintegrating the card mid-air.
Cyclops: (serious) I'm ending this tonight, Bullseye.
Bullseye: (smirking) We'll see about that.
Bullseye leapt to the next rooftop, but Cyclops was right on his heels, refusing to let him escape. The chase continued, both men pushing their limits, knowing that the first mistake could be fatal.
As they neared the edge of the rooftop, Bullseye suddenly stopped, turning to face Cyclops with a sneer.
Bullseye: (challenging) Come on, Cyclops. Let's see what you've got.
Cyclops didn't hesitate. He unleashed a powerful optic blast, the red beam cutting through the night toward Bullseye.
Meanwhile, in the depths of LuthorCorp's underground laboratory, tension was palpable. The low hum of advanced machinery filled the room, but something was clearly wrong—monitors began flashing with warning lights as the solar flare energy readings spiked uncontrollably.
One scientist, drenched in sweat, frantically typed commands into the terminal, his eyes wide with fear.
scientist 1: (panicked) The solar flare energy is rising too fast! We need to stabilize the containment field before it breaches!
His colleague, equally alarmed, was busy adjusting dials and switches, but nothing seemed to work.
scientist 2: (frustrated) It's no use! The containment field is failing—we're losing control!
The energy levels on the screen continued to climb, the numbers flashing red as alarms blared. The first scientist hesitated, then slammed his hand down on the large emergency button.
scientist 1: (shouting) Evacuate the facility! We need to get out, now!
Klaxons echoed throughout the lab, signaling the start of an emergency evacuation. Both scientists began to back away from the control panel, but before they could get far, the heavy metal doors slid open with a hiss, revealing Lex Luthor. His expression was a mix of anger and cold determination as he approached them.
Lex Luthor: (menacing) What the hell do you think you're doing? Shut off that alarm and get back to work!
Without warning, Luthor swung his fist, striking the first scientist hard across the face, sending him reeling backward. Luthor's voice was low, filled with barely restrained fury.
Lex Luthor: (commanding) Continue the experiment. Now.
The scientist, still clutching his face in shock, shook his head desperately.
scientist 1: (pleading) We can't! The containment field is failing—the energy levels are off the charts! If we don't shut it down, the whole facility will explode!
Luthor's eyes narrowed dangerously. He grabbed the scientist by the collar, pulling him close, his voice a deadly whisper.
Lex Luthor: (coldly) I didn't ask for your opinion. I asked for results. Get back to work, or you won't live to see that explosion.
The second scientist, seeing his colleague in danger, hesitated for a moment before speaking up.
scientist 2: (desperate) Sir, please there's nothing we can do! If we don't stop now, we'll all die!
For a brief moment, Luthor's grip tightened, his face a mask of rage. Then, almost reluctantly, he released the scientist, shoving him back towards the control panel.
Lex Luthor: (seething) Fine. Shut it down. But this isn't over.
The scientists scrambled to initiate the shutdown sequence, alarms blaring louder as the system began to count down. The evacuation order was now in full effect, with personnel rushing to get out of the facility.
scientist 1: (shouting) Everyone out! Move it!
As the team rushed to evacuate, Luthor stood still for a moment, his gaze fixed on the containment chamber as the solar energy inside swirled violently, threatening to break free. His mind raced, calculating his next move even in the face of potential disaster.
Finally, with a final, furious glance at the chaos unfolding around him, Luthor turned and walked out of the lab, leaving the scientists to deal with the impending explosion.
.
.
Each step was precise, every movement calculated, but Bullseye was just as agile, leaping from building to building with ease. As they ran, Cyclops fired a series of optic blasts, narrowly missing Bullseye as he dodged with his usual cocky grin.
Cyclops: (frustrated) It's been fucking five years, Bullseye! Can you stop being a villain already?
Bullseye glanced back, his grin widening as he reveled in the chase. The wind whipped through his short hair, and he seemed to be enjoying the game far too much.
Bullseye: (taunting) Never, Cyclops! Admit it you love this. I'm your greatest villain of all time!
Cyclops fired another blast, this one closer, but Bullseye dodged again, his laughter echoing through the night.
Cyclops: (cutting him off) Nuh uh!
Bullseye's grin faltered slightly as he glanced back, confused by the response.
Bullseye: (puzzled) What do you mean, "nuh uh"?
Cyclops: (louder) NUH UH!
Bullseye's confusion quickly turned to frustration. He reached into his belt and pulled out a metal playing card, twirling it between his fingers before hurling it with deadly precision toward Cyclops. But Cyclops was ready. With a swift sidestep, he easily dodged the card, watching it slice through the air and embed itself harmlessly into a nearby wall.
Bullseye: (annoyed) You know, you're really starting to piss me off!
Cyclops smirked, finally closing the distance between them. He could feel the tension rising, the familiar rush of adrenaline from their countless battles over the years.
Cyclops: (serious) Then do us both a favor and quit while you're ahead, Bullseye. This ends tonight.
Bullseye laughed again, but there was a trace of uncertainty in his voice now.
Bullseye: (defiant) You know I can't do that, Cyclops. It's you and me, till the end.
Cyclops raised his hand to his visor, ready to fire another blast.
Cyclops: (determined) We'll see about that.
Bullseye's eyes gleamed with a mix of challenge and mischief as he prepared to throw his metal card. Cyclops, equally determined, focused his energy on his visor, ready to unleash a powerful optic blast.
Bullseye: (taunting) Oh really? Let's end this THEN!
The tension between them was palpable as Bullseye's arm cocked back, ready to throw. Cyclops' fingers tightened around the controls of his visor, preparing to fire. But suddenly, a violent explosion erupted behind Cyclops. The force of it sent a shockwave through the air, knocking him off balance.
Cyclops: (shouting) Not now!
He spun around to see a large building engulfed in flames, the fire billowing into the night sky and casting an ominous glow over the cityscape. Smoke and debris were rising as the building burned fiercely. Cyclops' eyes widened in alarm.
Cyclops: (cursing) Dang it!
He glanced back at where Bullseye had been, but the villain was nowhere to be seen. Panic surged through him as he realized the opportunity to catch Bullseye was slipping away.
Cyclops: (frustrated) Bullseye!
Without a moment's hesitation, Cyclops leaped from the rooftop, using his power to propel himself downward with precision. As he landed on the street below, he sprinted towards the flaming building, his mind racing with concern.
The building was already a raging inferno, and emergency sirens wailed in the distance. Cyclops dashed through the chaos, his visor scanning for any signs of danger or people trapped inside. The heat was intense, and the smoke thick, but Cyclops pushed through, determined to make a difference even amidst the destruction.
Cyclops: (yelling) Anyone still inside? Help is coming!
Without a moment's hesitation, Cyclops leaped from the rooftop, using his power to propel himself downward with precision. As he landed on the street below, he sprinted towards the flaming building, his mind racing with concern.
The building was already a raging inferno, and emergency sirens wailed in the distance. Cyclops dashed through the chaos, his visor scanning for any signs of danger or people trapped inside. The heat was intense, and the smoke thick, but Cyclops pushed through, determined to make a difference even amidst the destruction.
Cyclops: (yelling) Anyone still inside? Help is coming!
Female Voice: (panicked) Help! Someone, please!
Cyclops' visor scanned the area, and he pinpointed the source of the voice coming from beneath a fallen bookshelf and debris. Without hesitation, he dashed toward the sound, his movements swift and determined.
Cyclops: (calling out) I'm here! Stay calm, I'm going to get you out!
He approached the massive pile of wreckage, seeing the trapped woman's hand sticking out from underneath. With a deep breath, Cyclops engaged his optic blast to carefully lift the heavy bookshelf and debris, creating just enough space to pull the woman free.
As the dust settled, Cyclops saw the female scientist lying on the ground, her face streaked with dirt and soot, but her eyes wide with relief.
Cyclops: (reassuringly) It's alright, everything's going to be fine. Can you move?
Female Scientist: (grateful) Thank you! I thought I was going to be trapped forever.
Cyclops helped her to her feet, making sure she was steady before speaking again.
Cyclops: (firmly) Get out of the building and find somewhere safe. I need to keep searching for any other survivors.
The female scientist nodded, her face a mixture of fear and gratitude. She turned and hurried towards the exit, her steps quickening as she made her way through the smoke and flames.
Cyclops watched her go, then turned his attention back to the building's interior. The heat was intense, and the air was thick with smoke, but he pressed on, determined to find anyone else who might still be trapped. Each room he entered, each corner he searched, he called out, hoping for a response.
Cyclops: (shouting) Is anyone else here? I'm coming!!
Cyclops continued to navigate through the blazing building, his efforts focused on saving any remaining survivors. The heat was unbearable, and the smoke made it difficult to see. As he approached a partially collapsed corridor, he noticed a strange, pulsating light in the distance.
Cyclops: (muttering) What is that?
The light grew brighter and more intense, casting an eerie glow through the smoke-filled air. Cyclops squinted, trying to make sense of the source. As he got closer, he realized it was a swirling, chaotic mass of solar flare energy. It was unlike anything he had ever seen a powerful, erratic burst of energy that seemed to be consuming everything in its path.
Cyclops: (alarmed) Oh no, I need to get out of here!
He turned to flee, but the energy surged unpredictably, closing in on him with alarming speed. Cyclops ran, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he tried to outpace the solar flare. But the energy was too quick, and before he could make it to safety, it enveloped him in a blinding burst of light.
The solar flare energy struck Cyclops with immense force. The impact was like being hit by a freight train of pure energy. Cyclops staggered, his body convulsing as the solar flare began to merge with him. His optic blasts flared wildly, uncontrollably, as he struggled to manage the influx of energy.
Cyclops: (screaming) No, no, noooooo!
The energy continued to pour into him, overwhelming his senses and consuming his strength. He felt the intense heat searing through him, but he could do nothing to stop it. The flare's energy seemed to absorb into him, leaving him feeling drained and powerless.
As the last of the solar flare energy was absorbed, Cyclops' vision blurred. The building around him was a chaotic inferno, and his strength was waning. The world spun, and he could no longer stay on his feet. With a final, desperate effort, Cyclops collapsed amidst the burning debris, unconscious and vulnerable.
The flames roared around him, the destruction of Luthor Corp's facility continuing unabated as Cyclops lay motionless in the middle of the wreckage, his fate uncertain.
-DECEMBER 2, 2005-
Zack Summer slowly regained consciousness in the medical room of T-Tower. The room was dimly lit, filled with the soft hum of medical equipment. As his vision cleared, he saw Cyborg leaning over him, examining his condition with a concerned expression.
Zack: (groggy) What happened?
Cyborg looked up from his readings, his face showing a mixture of relief and worry.
Cyborg: (explaining) We found unconscious in a fiery building. I managed to get you out of there and bring you here...
zack: (weakly) Oh... is that so...
Cyborg nodded, and there was a moment of silence as Zack processed the information.
Cyborg: (cautiously) Do you remember anything from before you passed out? Anything that might help us understand what happened?
Zack started to open his mouth to explain, but before he could say anything, the door to the medical room slid open. Raven entered, her presence commanding immediate attention. She locked eyes with Zack before turning her gaze to Cyborg.
Raven: (firmly) Cyborg, out of the room. Now.
Cyborg hesitated, about to protest, but Raven's intense gaze and commanding tone left no room for argument.
Cyborg: (hesitant) But I-
Raven: (coldly) You have one second of your existence if you don't leave right now Cyborg...
Cyborg's eyes widened in apprehension. He shivered slightly but quickly complied, mumbling under his breath as he exited the room. The door closed behind him with a hiss.
Zack looked at Raven, puzzled and slightly concerned.
Zack: (confused) Raven? What's going on?
Raven walked closer, her expression serious as she approached Zack.
Raven: (calmly) I need to speak with you alone. We need to understand what happened and make sure you're truly okay.
.
.
Bullseye stumbled backward, trying to regain his footing as he was roughly shoved to the ground. Peacemaker loomed over him, his expression devoid of sympathy.
Peacemaker: (coldly) You failed the mission, Bullseye.
Bullseye scrambled to explain, his voice tinged with desperation.
Bullseye: (frantic) There was an explosion at Luthor Corp! I couldn't finish the job with Cyclops he got away because of that!
Peacemaker's eyes narrowed, but before he could respond, a voice crackled through his earpiece Amanda Waller's voice, icy and unyielding.
Amanda Waller: (commanding) Peacemaker, eliminate him. He's no longer of use to us.
Bullseye's eyes widened in shock as he realized what was happening. He tried to plead his case.
Bullseye: (desperate) Wait! I can sti-
But Peacemaker was already drawing his weapon, his face showing no hesitation. The barrel of the gun was aimed squarely at Bullseye's head.
Peacemaker: (calmly) Orders are orders.
Before Bullseye could react, the sound of a gunshot echoed through the dark alley, followed by silence. Peacemaker stood over Bullseye's lifeless body, holstering his weapon as he calmly turned away, awaiting his next command from Waller.
Amanda Waller: (commanding) Return to HQ, Peacemaker. Mission's done.
Peacemaker gave a firm nod, his expression as stoic as ever.
Peacemaker: (calmly) Understood. Heading back now.
Without another word, he turned and walked away, his heavy boots echoing through the deserted alley as he disappeared into the shadows.
Amanda Waller stood still for a moment, watching Peacemaker leave. Her sharp eyes lingered on Bullseye's lifeless form, a slight frown creasing her brow. She couldn't shake a thought that had been nagging at her since the mission began.
Why did she even bother sending Bullseye after Cyclops in the first place? She knew how unpredictable Bullseye could be how his obsession with proving himself could lead to recklessness.
Waller's mind raced through the calculations, the risks, and the motives. Something didn't add up, and she didn't like loose ends. Cyclops was a variable she needed to keep under control, but Bullseye had never been a reliable asset for such a critical mission.
Amanda Waller: (thinking) Was this really the best move? Or is there something I'm missing here...?
She shook her head, dismissing the thoughts for now. There would be time to analyze later. With a final glance at the scene, Waller turned on her heel and walked away
Inside the medical room of T-Tower, the tension was palpable. Raven stood at the edge of Zack's bed, her usual calm demeanor replaced with an intensity that even Zack couldn't ignore. The dim lighting cast long shadows, but it didn't hide the determination in Raven's eyes.
Raven: (firmly) I need to speak with you alone, Zack. We need to understand what happened and make sure you're truly okay.
Zack, still feeling the weight of exhaustion from the incident at Luthor Corp, waved his hand dismissively. His voice was cold, almost detached.
Zack: (flatly) You don't need to. I'm fine. Besides, I'm done with the team. Donna and I quit because of one mistake one mistake that cost us everything.
Raven took a step closer, her voice softening but still resolute.
Raven: (pleading) Zack, listen to me. This isn't just about the past. It's about making sure yo-
Zack suddenly sat up, his eyes flashing with frustration. He cut her off sharply, his voice rising.
Zack: (shouting) Zip it, Raven! The past is the past! What's done is done! Just like the day you and I slept together behind Beast Boy's back!
The room fell into a heavy silence. Raven's breath caught in her throat, her eyes widening in shock. She hadn't expected Zack to bring that up especially not like this.
Raven: (whispering) Zack... that was—
Zack interrupted again, his voice now laced with bitterness.
Zack: (coldly) Yeah, that was a mistake too, wasn't it? Just like everything else around here.
Raven stood there, speechless, as the weight of Zack's words hung in the air. The guilt, the pain, the regrets they all came rushing back, but now wasn't the time for that. She took a deep breath, steadying herself.
Raven: (calmly) You're right, Zack. We've all made mistakes. But running from them won't fix anything. And neither will shutting everyone out.
Zack turned away, his fists clenched, but Raven's words seemed to reach him, even if only slightly.
Zack: (quietly) Maybe... but I'm tired of it all, Raven. Tired of everything.
Raven looked at him, her eyes filled with empathy.
Raven: (softly) I know. But we can still make things right if you let us
Zack: (sighing) Who's "us," Raven? You know what... never mind. Where's Dick?
Raven folded her arms, her voice steady.
Raven: (calmly) Dick's on a mission with Batman.
Zack's eyes narrowed, a mix of irritation and resignation crossing his face.
Zack: (muttering) Again...
He shook his head, pushing the thought aside.
Zack: (more directly) Where's my suit?
Raven pointed to the side of his bed, where his original blue Cyclops suit lay neatly folded.
Raven: (softly) It's right there, your old suit. Zack, you need to go back to the era where people respected and even love you. The black and red suit... it's different. People are scared of you in the wrong way now.
Zack's expression hardened. He glanced at the blue suit, then looked back at Raven, shaking his head.
Zack: (firmly) I don't need to wear that blue suit again. I've moved on from that.
Raven's eyes flickered with something, and she pulled up a hologram in front of him. The image showed crowds of people in the streets, holding signs with his name and symbol. But instead of admiration, their faces were filled with anger and fear. They were shouting, holding signs that said things like "Cyclops Menace!" and "No More Black and Red!" "We Want The Old Cyclops Back!"
Raven: (pointing at the hologram) You were saying, Zack? This is what people think now. They're scared, Zack. They hate the person you've become in that suit.
Zack stared at the hologram, his jaw tightening. But even after seeing it, his resolve didn't waver.
Zack: (defiantly) No. I'm not going back to that. I've made my choice.
Raven sighed deeply, sensing the finality in his voice. With a wave of her hand, her magic swirled around the room, and Zack's black and red suit appeared before him.
Raven: (reluctantly) Fine. Here it is. But, Zack... just think about what you're doing. Sometimes, change isn't always for the better.
Zack grabbed the suit and began to put it on, ignoring her words.
Zack, now fully suited up in his black and red Cyclops attire, tightened the last strap on his gloves. He turned to leave, but Raven's voice stopped him.
Raven: (softly) Zack... wait.
He paused, his back still turned to her, his shoulders tense.
Raven: (hesitantly) I... I need to tell you something.
Cyclops didn't turn around, but she could see the stiffness in his posture.
Raven: (quietly) I love you, Zack.
For a moment, the room was silent, the words hanging in the air like a heavy weight. Cyclops slowly turned to face her, his expression a mix of anger and disbelief.
Cyclops: (coldly) Love me?
Raven nodded, her eyes pleading, but Cyclops's face twisted with resentment.
Zack: (bitterly) You think that makes everything better? That it erases what happened?
Raven: (desperately) Zack, I didn't mean for things to go that way. It was a mistake—
Cyclops cut her off, his voice sharp and filled with pain.
Cyclops: (angrily) A mistake? You forced yourself on me, Raven! At that damn party, you made the first move. You didn't care about what it would do to me, to us. And now, you think saying you love me fixes it?
Raven flinched at his words, tears welling in her eyes, but she didn't back down.
Raven: (choking on her words) I'm sorry, Zack. I never meant to hurt you... I just—
Cyclops raised his hand, stopping her again.
Cyclops: (coldly) Save it, Raven. What's done is done. You made your choice, and now I'm making mine.
He turned away from her, his heart hardening as he headed for the door. Raven reached out, her voice trembling.
Raven: (pleading) Zack, please... don't leave like this.
But Cyclops didn't stop. He swung the door open and walked out without looking back, leaving Raven alone in the room, tears streaming down her face as the door closed behind him with a soft click.
.
.
Cyclops walked aimlessly through the streets, his mind heavy with thoughts. The weight of his recent encounters and the emotions that had resurfaced weighed on him. As he turned a corner, he noticed a group of children playing in a small park. Their laughter echoed through the air, a stark contrast to the turmoil within him.
He paused for a moment, watching them chase each other around, carefree and full of life. The sight brought a bittersweet smile to his face. He couldn't remember the last time he felt that kind of freedom. The responsibilities, the battles, the mistakes they had all taken their toll.
Cyclops: (whispering to himself) I wonder if there's another universe where I don't have these powers. Where I'm just... normal.
.
In the Watchtower, Martian Manhunter was immersed in monitoring various threats when a sudden alarm pierced the silence. The alert came from a console displaying a new incoming data feed. Martian Manhunter's eyes narrowed as he read the information on the screen: Doomsday was heading toward an elementary school in New York.
Martian Manhunter: (muttering) This is troubling.
He reviewed the data more closely. The screen showed that Doomsday was rapidly approaching the school, but there were no reports of destruction or chaos yet. The monster's trajectory was clear and direct, indicating an imminent threat but not an immediate crisis.
Martian Manhunter: (thinking) We have time, but not much.
He checked the hero activity feeds to see if there were any available heroes who could intercept or provide support. The only signal near the danger zone was Cyclops. Realizing that Cyclops alone would be insufficient to handle Doomsday, Martian Manhunter felt a surge of urgency.
Martian Manhunter: (urgently) This situation needs immediate attention.
Without hesitation, Martian Manhunter initiated the Watchtower's communication system, reaching out to the other heroes with a message of high priority.
Martian Manhunter: (over intercom) Attention, this is Martian Manhunter. We have an emerging threat. Doomsday is en route to an elementary school in New York. Cyclops is the only hero currently on the scene, but given Doomsday's potential for destruction, we need additional support immediately.
The message echoed throughout the Watchtower, and Martian Manhunter watched as his fellow heroes began to respond. The urgency in his tone reflected the seriousness of the situation: though Doomsday had not yet begun to wreak havoc, the potential for disaster was significant.
Martian Manhunter: (to himself) We must prevent this from escalating.
He quickly made his way to the teleporter, ready to coordinate with the heroes and prepare a strategy to confront Doomsday before any damage could be done.
Cyclops was seated on a park bench, lost in thought as he stared off into the distance. The serene moment was abruptly interrupted by a strange, distant noise that piqued his curiosity.
Cyclops: (muttering) What the fuck is that noise?
He strained his ears, trying to pinpoint the source of the sound. It seemed to grow louder, more ominous. Just as he began to turn around to investigate, a chilling, raspy breath echoed right behind him.
Cyclops: (whispering) What the-
Slowly, Cyclops turned his head, his heart racing as he tried to remain calm. His eyes widened in shock as he came face to face with Doomsday, the monstrous entity towering over him.
Doomsday's menacing gaze bore down on Cyclops, and the beast's sheer presence was overwhelming.
Cyclops: (stunned) Shit.