Post by HoM on Jul 24, 2018 11:18:09 GMT -5
Previously in… Young Justice...
Determined to prove that they can operate on their own, teenaged crimefighters Artemis, Impulse, Robin, Superboy, and Wonder Girl disobeyed orders and left the Hall of Justice. They raced to Smithfield, Virginia, to stop a spree of bank robberies perpetrated by metahuman delinquents calling themselves the Terror Twins!
The young heroes defeated the Terror Twins and rescued seven hostages. But will Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, the Flash and Green Arrow give them a chance to prove themselves, or is Young Justice already over?
Cameras crackled and flashed as Aquaman, Chairman of the Justice League and King of Atlantis, took the podium on the front steps of the Hall of Justice. While the floating island of Laputa served as the Justice League’s headquarters and base of operations, the Hall of Justice was more accessible to the public and the international media. Hundreds of reporters and camera crews trained their sights on the King of the Seven Seas and waited for him to speak.
Aquaman’s weathered hands were steady on either side of the white podium engraved with a golden shield. His suit of orange mail and neatly-trimmed blond beard gleamed in the lingering light of evening. He gazed straight ahead with a reassuring smile, “Good evening. This is Aquaman. I am pleased to announce that, earlier today, the Justice League was able to prevent the terrorist organization known as Kobra from acquiring twelve intercontinental ballistic missiles from Vlatava. Together with our partners in the United Nations and the international security services, we arrested the agents of Kobra and dismantled the nuclear weapons with zero loss of life. There is no danger to the public at this time.”
Aquaman raised a hand to forestall the sudden explosion of questions, “Simultaneously, ladies and gentlemen, we were able to resolve the hostage crisis in Smithfield, Virginia. Seven innocent people including two police officers were rescued safely. The perpetrators were arrested and remanded into the custody of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. We were able to resolve the situation without further incident with the assistance of Smithfield Police Department and Young Justice, a new initiative to advance the training, support, and development of young metahumans. These exceptional young men and women are willing and determined to do their part. We thank them for their service and their efforts to help protect and defend each and every human being on Earth. We are the Justice League. Thank you.”
Aquaman stepped back from the podium as the reporters unleashed a torrent of questions.
“Aquaman! Over here, Aquaman! Your highness!”
“…What was the payload!?”
“…Was there an intended target, Aquaman?”
“…Justify intervening in international…”
“--What about Kobra!”
“… The members of the new initiative minors, Aquaman?”
“--What is Young Justice?”
“Aquaman, when can we talk to…”
“--Who are Young Justice?”
The official spokeswoman took Aquaman’s place in front of the array of microphones, “Thank you, ladies and gentlemen of the press, thank you-- thank you! I will be taking your questions at this time!”
Wonder Girl sighed and muted WGBS. She put her head in her hands, her silver armbands chiming mournfully. This was not going how she imagined. The police had not been as excited by their victory as Wonder Girl had expected. Things had gotten even worse when the F.B.I. arrived to take custody of the Terror Twins. Two extremely rude agents had started berating them about property damage and taking the law into their own hands and risking innocent lives. They didn’t seem to care that Impulse had zoomed all seven hostages straight to the nearest hospital, saving everyone a lot of time and worry. They didn’t care that the Terror Twins had been defeated!
Then the Justice League had arrived, falling out of the dark blue sky in a blaze of light. Wonder Woman had taken command of the situation and they had been taken back to the Hall of Justice for medical treatment and, now, to stew.
Waiting.
“That went well,” Robin turned to face the group, “Really.”
It was late evening and the sun was setting. White lights gleamed in the garden outside the windows. The five members of Young Justice had, once again, taken up residence in the waiting room in the West Gallery of the Hall of Justice. If felt like they spent so much time in here, they should call it ‘headquarters’.
There was an open box of donuts and four untouched bottles of water on the marble counter.
“Really?” Superboy scowled. “First, we were treated like criminals, then we were treated like children, and now sidekicks to the local cops? That went well?”
“We’re not in jail, we’re still together, and we saved the hostages,” Robin ticked the points off on his finger. “Yeah, that went well.”
“We didn’t get the credit, though,” Impulse said, stuffing a donut in his mouth. “Mmm, jelly!”
“What, do you need a medal?” Artemis said. “Robin’s right. We saved the hostages, that’s what counts.”
Artemis rolled her shoulder gingerly. It was wrapped in adhesive bandages. Superboy shrugged moodily and stared out of the window. “So. Now what? Are they going to shut us down?”
“I don’t know.” Robin looked pale under his cowl.
Wonder Girl swallowed and stared at the door. What was talking them so long? “I’m sorry,” Cassandra said abruptly. “This is all my fault.”
“I’m not sorry,” Superboy said, sticking out his jaw. “We did a good job. It was even… a good plan, Robin.”
Robin startled, opened his mouth, and then looked down at the table. Cassandra shuddered. She would not want to be in trouble with The Batman.
“The plan could’ve used some work.” Artemis chuckled. “Or I really need shoulder padding. Ouch.”
Cassandra bit her lip. “I’m really sorry, Cissie”
“That’s… my fault,” Robin said softly. “My cape release jammed. New suit. Needs testing. I underestimated their strength and speed. It won’t happen again.”
“Rob, you did good,” Impulse said. He appeared next to the Boy Wonder with a crack, clapped him on the back, and handed him a glazed donut. “Have a donut. These things are wicked.”
Robin sighed and dropped the donut on a pile of magazines. Artemis also refused a donut and Impulse shrugged, popped it in his mouth, and started chewing loudly. “Suit, mmph, yourselves. Saving people makes me hun-gry.”
Artemis shrugged and then winced. “Ouch. That’s not what they seem to think.”
“We did cause some property damage.” Robin rubbed the back of his cowl.
“The Justice League causes property damage all the time!” Superboy said.
“And they clean it up,” Artemis retorted.
“They won’t let me clean it up!” Superboy threw up his hands. “How am I supposed to help when they won’t let us do anything!”
Superboy’s voice echoed through the room and the glass windows shivered. One of the water bottles fell over with a sad plop. Impulse swept it into the garbage with a whoosh of displaced air. “Careful, man. I like my eardrums intact.”
“I…” Superboy sighed. “Sorry.”
The door to the waiting room slid open and Wonder Woman appeared. The Queen of the Amazons was draped in a blue cloak pinned with a golden clasp, swept back over one shoulder. Wonder Woman’s Lariat of Hestia cast a golden glow across the polished floor, but her stern eyes were dark. Cassandra dropped her gaze as a sudden surge of guilt filled her stomach with butterflies.
Okay, how can this get any worse?
“Children,” Wonder Woman said. “There are two F.B.I. agents waiting to speak to you in the conference room. You will listen to what they have to say.”
Cassandra sighed. Jinxed it.
Wonder Woman escorted Young Justice across the hallway to the conference room. Two men in matching cheap black suits with red ties were sitting on the far side of a table formed of translucent white crystal. There was a golden shield mounted on the far wall of polished grey granite. Batman stood opposite the F.B.I., his arms folded across his chest. The room felt cold.
“Sit down,” Batman said, and the temperature seemed to drop a few degrees.
Wonder Girl, Artemis, and Robin sat down. Impulse stuffed the second half of his donut in his mouth with a guilty start. “I’ll stand,” Superboy muttered, leaning against the wall.
The two federal agents stood up. The first was short and thin, with quick eyes and shining black hair. The second was tall and broad, with dark skin and a shaved head. He had a black beard peppered with grey.
“We agreed that these two men could speak to you—briefly.” The Batman’s voice sounded like frozen gravel. “We’ve made it clear that your efforts were authorized and successful in resolving the situation.”
“I’m Special Agent Ishido Yamada,” the first man said with a faint curl to his lip. “This is my partner, Special Agent Donald Dajuste. I understand the police have already taken your statements.”
“That’s right, sir,” Robin said.
Superboy snorted in disdain.
“You don’t need any additional statements, Special Agent Yamada,” Batman said, arms folded across his chest.
“No,” Special Agent Dajuste said. His voice had a pleasant drawl, but his dark eyes were flat and emotionless. “We just want to remind these heroes that the Federal Bureau of Investigation will hold them responsible for any unauthorized incidents, if such a terrible thing like that were ever to occur. Ain’t that right, Agent Yamada?”
Yamada gave him a thin smile that didn’t reach his darting eyes. “If, for example, you weren’t supposed to intervene in a delicate and dangerous hostage negotiation with zero training or consultation with the police. If, for example, you weren’t supposed to cause untold property damage to private property.”
“Like throwing a police car through a burger joint, now, that might upset people. If it weren’t all official and authorized and helpful,” Dajuste drawled. “That just might, just might lead to charges of criminal mischief, trespassing, and obstruction of justice. Do we make ourselves clear, boys and girls?”
“Yeah, it’s clear you’re an asshole,” Superboy muttered.
“What was that, boy?” Dajuste said with a smile that didn’t reach his eyes. “I couldn’t quite hear you, Super-boy.”
“He said it’s very clear, sir,” Robin interjected. “Crystal clear.”
Artemis choked on a laugh and Cassandra put her head in her hands again. How, how, how can this get any worse?
“That’s enough,” The Dark Knight said.
“Yes, that’s all for now, Special Agent Dajuste,” Wonder Woman said firmly. “Thank you for your assistance in this matter.”
“Ma’am,” Agent Dajuste said. “We’ll be watching you, boys and girls.”
The two F.B.I. Special Agents were shown the door. When the glass door slid closed behind them, Superboy jerked upright from the wall with a snarl, “That arrogant piece of—“
“That’s enough, Superboy,” Wonder Woman said gently. “Sit. Down.”
Superboy sat down and the revolving chair under him creaked dangerously. Impulse spun in a circle, trailing tiny sparks of yellow energy. Batman and Wonder Woman stood on the other side of the table. They glanced at each other and, as if on cue, Batman unfolded his arms. “Congratulations. You have completed your first mission as Young Justice.”
Impulse fell out of his chair. Wonder Girl’s jaw dropped. “We did?”
Robin raised his hand. “Are we in any legal trouble, sir?”
“No.” Batman’s voice was still cold and flat. “To prevent any legal repercussions from your actions, we have taken full responsibility for your mission. That does not mean that we are happy.”
“So we’re in other kinds of trouble?” Artemis muttered.
“Yes.” Batman nodded. “You prioritized saving the hostages and resolved the crisis with zero casualties. Good work. But your insubordination is dangerous and disrespectful. It could have compromised our mission in Vlatava. This will have consequences.”
Cassandra put her head flat on the table. How can this keep getting worse?
“For now, understand that we are very disappointed.” Wonder Woman quelled a mutinous glance from Superboy with a look. “Now, the next part of your training begins.”
The Batwing skimmed the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. The moon glimmered on the churning waves from behind thin wisps of cloud. The stealth aircraft was little more than a shadow wreathed in spray and mist. The cockpit was silent. Tim peered out of the cockpit at the shimmering ocean waves. “Sir… where are we going?”
Bruce was silent for a moment. “I’ll explain when we arrive, Robin.”
Tim nodded. The silence was killing him. His brain was buzzing with a dozen permutations of the conversation he wanted to have with his father. Was this the right time? They were stuck in the cockpit-- did that improve the probability of a positive outcome or worsen the odds? Tim took a breath.
Before he started to speak, Bruce seemed to read his mind. “I’ll explain everything when we land.”
“Yessir.”
The Batwing created twin plumes of white spray as it raced towards a mountain that rose out of the ocean, framed by tendrils of backlit fog. Tim frowned as he stared at the distant object over the seat in front of him. As they got closer, Tim could see that the squat mountain, little more than a giant boulder, was covered in straggly pines bent by the ocean winds. The dark trees materialized out of the night, closer and closer, until Batman cut back on the throttle and the craft hovered over the pounding surf at the base of the mountain. A concrete slab retracted into the earth and revealed a lightless tunnel that led underground.
The Dark Knight edged the Batwing inside the tunnel, turbines whining. The shaft angled downwards until it opened up into a vast cavern, the ceiling lost in shadows. Batman landed the stealth craft and unsealed the cockpit. Tim could hear the distant slosh of moving water echoing around the damp cavern.
Biting his tongue, Robin waited for the Caped Crusader to enter a command into the computer. Lights flickered into life in a ring around the top of the cavern and revealed a concrete landing bay above a pool of black water. More lights glowed beneath the surface of the pool like undersea crystals. The access tunnel behind them was sealed behind a steel door. Ahead of them was a cargo area and then a second door marked with a band of faded yellow paint. Above the elevator was a transparent observation deck, still dark, that overlooked the cavern.
When they disembarked, Batman turned and lowered his cowl with a hiss, running one glove through his sweat-dark hair. His pale blue eyes were focused on his son. Timothy quickly disengaged his own cowl. Goosebumps raced up his neck in the cold air.
“Welcome to the Secret Sanctuary, Tim,” Bruce Wayne said. “This was one of the original headquarters of the Justice League. Now it’s your new training facility and headquarters.”
Despite his prodigious intellect, it still took Tim a fraction of a second to process what had just happened. “Our… our...our new headquarters?”
“Yes,” Bruce said with a tiny smile. “This is the new home of Young Justice.”
Tim was flabbergasted. “Even after…”
“Especially after the incident in Smithfield.” Bruce nodded.
Tim hesitated. “We really just wanted to help, sir. We thought it was an opportunity to demonstrate that we can operate in the field on our own. It was a good plan.”
Once again, Bruce was silent for a moment. “It was a good plan,” he admitted with a thin smile, “but you disobeyed my direct orders. You ignored my advice, put your friends in danger, and suffered the consequences.” He held up his hand to forestall any interruptions. “And I’m proud of what you did. You rescued the hostages. No civilians were hurt. But I’m very disappointed that you didn’t trust me, Tim.”
Timothy flushed. “Bruce, I…”
“I know you’re restless. Dick was the same when he founded the Teen Titans. He was around your age.” Bruce’s eyes flashed in the shadows. “But, yes, I didn’t want you to operate entirely on your own. Things are different now. There’s more scrutiny. There’s more risk.”
Timothy nodded.
“I could tell you that the stunt you pulled with your friends put this project at risk, but that’s not true.” Bruce rubbed the bridge of his nose with a snort. “It was just the evidence we needed to convince the others this team is necessary.”
“It was?” Tim gasped. “Wait, it really worked?”
Bruce smiled. “To an extent. Wonder Woman and I have trained young heroes before. We know that you need to grow and learn on your own. Without your stunt, other members might have tried to ignore the situation and keep you out of the field-- exacerbating the crisis in the future”
“So this is… punishment?” Tim said, frowning. “Wait, can we even leave Secret Sanctuary?”
“Yes,” Bruce said. “You can go on missions under supervision. That’s the only way this is going to happen.”
“So we’re on probation,” Tim muttered.
“Yes,” Bruce said with a grim nod. “The government and the Justice League are watching. Be careful. If the four of you don’t demonstrate responsibility and respect, this team is over.”
Robin nodded. He understood what his father was saying. The government would throw a fit. Cassandra’s mother would take her back to Gateway City, Green Arrow would take Artemis back to Star City, and Superman would take Kon-El back to Metropolis. Young Justice would be over. “I understand, sir.”
“Then let’s go upstairs and see the others,” Bruce said.
“Yessir!” Tim looked sideways at his father with a growing smile, “Her plan worked. Cassandra was right.”
Bruce laughed. “Don’t push your luck, Tim.”
“Yes, sir.”
Wonder Woman stood in front of the five members of Young Justice, her dark blue cloak thrown over one shoulder. Diana stood against a concrete wall labeled Level B2. Next to her were Green Lantern, the Flash, Black Canary, and Red Tornado. Batman stood in the shadows behind her; behind him there was a circular platform embedded at the base of the concrete bulwark. There was a disc at the base of the platform that looked like solid crystal divided by spokes of silver metal.
“Since you are determined to stay together and fight for peace and justice,” Wonder Woman said with a smile, “we are reopening Mount Justice. The mountain will be your home, your training facility, and your base of operations. You can engage in missions with our full support.”
“You will operate on our terms,” Batman said grimly. “Black Canary and Red Tornado from the Birds of Prey have volunteered to oversee your necessary training. I will assign you missions.”
“Real missions?” Superboy demanded.
“Yes, but covert,” Batman said, “We cannot afford any more unwanted attention.”
“That wasn’t our fault,” Superboy growled.
“But it is your responsibility,” Batman replied. “The world expects more from you. We expect more from you. If you don’t meet our standards, you won’t leave this mountain. Do I make myself clear? Good. Red Tornado.”
“Greetings, children,” Red Tornado intoned in his robotic voice. “I have volunteered to live in Mount Justice and supervise your off-hours. As I require no sleep, sustenance, or recreation, I will be available at all times.”
“Great,” Superboy whispered.
“I’ll provide extra training when I can spare the time,” Black Canary said, with one hand on her hip. “I expect a lot from you. Starting with the ability to follow directions, Superboy. That’s the first step towards fighting together as a real team. If you do that, I think I have a lot to teach you-- all of you-- if you’re up to it.”
“This is wicked!” Impulse grinned. “Can’t wait for you to show me some moves!”
“Cool.” Robin grinned. “Very cool.”
Superboy just grunted.
Wonder Girl lifted a few inches into the air she was so excited. “We’re SO up for it!”
Green Lantern chuckled. “It’ll be a few hours until your training facility is ready. I’ll be repairing the mountain, but once it’s back in operation it’s up to you to keep this thing running. Good luck, kids. You’ll need it out there.”
Batman pointed at the circular platform of glowing crystal behind him. “This is a zeta platform. It connects to the Hall of Justice and Laputa. We have programmed the platform to recognize your identities.”
“Be warned, we expect much from you,” the Queen of the Amazons said. “You have begun a dangerous journey. There are greater threats to young metahumans every day. We know you are stronger, and safer, together. We respect your dedication and your ability, but do not be afraid to ask us for counsel or aid.”
“We’re here to help,” the Flash said. “And we really, really don’t expect you to save the world right away. We’ll handle the big stuff. Try to attract a little less attention while you’re getting your legs under you, right kid?”
Impulse’s eyes were wide and innocent and he pointed at his chest with two thumbs, “Who, me?”
“No promises,” Wonder Girl grinned.
Artemis tried not to laugh and a smile flickered across Robin’s face. Batman cleared his throat and the five members of Young Justice stood up straight. Wonder Girl put her hands on her hips and stuck out her chest. They were ready for anything.
Wonder Woman smiled. “Stay together and protect each other. We know you will be great heroes.”
Batman loomed out of the shadows. “School is over. Your real training starts now.”
Impulse raised his hand with a grin. “I call top bunk!”
Distant lights glittered on the dark waters. It was a warm summer’s night, but there was a swift wind that blew off the bay and across the face of the mountain. Bruce Wayne wrapped his cape around his chest. He felt tired. His shoulders sagged and he stared into the darkness, thinking. He couldn’t let the others, especially his son, see him this way.
Worried.
Full of doubt.
“Did we do the right thing?”
“I believe so.” Wonder Woman landed lightly on the concrete balcony, hidden behind a holographic screen. She adjusted her blue cloak and then stepped forward to stand beside the Dark Knight. Clasping her hands, she leaned over the cold railing.
“Clark doesn’t agree,” Bruce said. “He doesn’t understand that, unless he gives Kon-El a chance to prove himself, to do some good, he might lose the boy for good.”
“You and I have trained many young warriors, Bruce, he has not,” Diana said softly. “This is the right decision.”
Bruce Wayne shook his head slightly. “They’re cocky… untested. They’ll take risks.”
“They are teenagers.” Diana smiled.
“They need to work together,” Batman said. “I’m concerned that adding new members is… premature. Did you speak with Aquaman?”
“I did,” Diana said. “Aqualad is ready to join the team.”
Bruce released a small sigh. “My dossier is less than thorough. It is… difficult to gain information on Atlantis.”
“It’s good to know even you have your limits, Bruce.” Diana smiled. “Don’t worry. I’ve met the young man on several visits to Poseidonis. He is a former student at the Conservatory of Sorcery and serves by the king’s side. Aqualad will be a benefit to the team. He is level-headed, strong-willed, and insightful. The others can learn much from him, and he is eager to learn more about the Surface World in turn.”
Bruce grunted. He was just… testing the waters. Worse, he was punning. He must be more strained than he thought. More worried.
Ultimately, Bruce knew that he trusted Diana’s judgment. If she believed that young Atlantean, Kaldur’ahm, would be a benefit to team, then he was on board.
“Very well,” Bruce said.
“We made the right decision, Bruce,” Diana reassured him. “This is their chance to grow into true heroes.”
“I hope so, Diana,” Bruce said, staring out into the night at the lights on the dark water. “I hope that they realize… this might be their only chance.”
Tuppence Terror screamed and thrashed in her restraints. Her heart was pounding like a panicked rabbit, faster and faster. She could hear the blood rushing in her head, each heartbeat shooting a wave of tingling dizziness up her spine. “No!” Tuppence screamed. “I won’t go back, I can’t go back! I’ll kill you! I’ll kill all of you!”
Tuppence was strapped to a steel gurney with inertron manacles around her wrists and ankles. There was a padded strap across her forehead and waist. Rocking fro side to side, she tried to topple the gurney to no avail. Four men wheeled the gurney down a brightly lit hallway. It was industrial beige with sterile fluorescent lighting.
The wheels squealed on the spotless floor. Four sets of boots clicked in harmony.
The desperate girl threw her head from side to side, straining; the muscles in her neck stood out like steel wires. She let out a pained moan and collapsed onto the gurney.
The wheels squealed on the spotless floor. Four sets of boots clicked like insects.
“Please,” Tuppence groaned. “Please, where’s Tommy… where’s my brother?”
She could feel the gurney slam against a pair of swinging doors and the lights flickered. There was a heavy, dragging sound and long plastic flaps flicked across her face and body. “Where are we going?” Tuppence screamed, and her voice broke. “Where-- ”
Tuppence blinked. She was so dizzy. The gurney jerked to a halt. Tuppence tried to look from side to side, thrashing her head back and forth with an animal snarl. She could hear footsteps coming closer and strained to see out of the corner of her eye. No, it was directly above her. She rolled her eyes back in her head-- nothing! “Who are you! I’ll...I’ll k-k-k…”
“Yes, I know you will, my dear.”
Tuppence flinched at the motherly voice. She flinched again when a dry hand in a plastic glove stroked the top of her head. Rubbery fingers scraped across her sweat-stained forehead.
“There, there. You’re just not very good at killing are you, dear?”
“P-p-please,” Tuppence moaned. “My brother, where’s Tommy? What did you do with him?”
“No, not very good at killing at all. But that’s perfectly alright. We prefer our students to have an… open mind.”
The mysterious woman patted Tuppence’s cheek.
“Please… not… again…”
“Shhh, child. You’ll have your chance to kill soon enough. Cadmus might be no more, but the good work is never done. Welcome to Medea.”
Determined to prove that they can operate on their own, teenaged crimefighters Artemis, Impulse, Robin, Superboy, and Wonder Girl disobeyed orders and left the Hall of Justice. They raced to Smithfield, Virginia, to stop a spree of bank robberies perpetrated by metahuman delinquents calling themselves the Terror Twins!
The young heroes defeated the Terror Twins and rescued seven hostages. But will Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, the Flash and Green Arrow give them a chance to prove themselves, or is Young Justice already over?
YOUNG JUSTICE
Issue Three: “School’s Out,” Finale
Written by Oblique
Cover by Joey Jarin
Edited by Mark Bowers
The following takes place before DC2 Most Wanted.
HALL OF JUSTICE, METROPOLIS:
Cameras crackled and flashed as Aquaman, Chairman of the Justice League and King of Atlantis, took the podium on the front steps of the Hall of Justice. While the floating island of Laputa served as the Justice League’s headquarters and base of operations, the Hall of Justice was more accessible to the public and the international media. Hundreds of reporters and camera crews trained their sights on the King of the Seven Seas and waited for him to speak.
Aquaman’s weathered hands were steady on either side of the white podium engraved with a golden shield. His suit of orange mail and neatly-trimmed blond beard gleamed in the lingering light of evening. He gazed straight ahead with a reassuring smile, “Good evening. This is Aquaman. I am pleased to announce that, earlier today, the Justice League was able to prevent the terrorist organization known as Kobra from acquiring twelve intercontinental ballistic missiles from Vlatava. Together with our partners in the United Nations and the international security services, we arrested the agents of Kobra and dismantled the nuclear weapons with zero loss of life. There is no danger to the public at this time.”
Aquaman raised a hand to forestall the sudden explosion of questions, “Simultaneously, ladies and gentlemen, we were able to resolve the hostage crisis in Smithfield, Virginia. Seven innocent people including two police officers were rescued safely. The perpetrators were arrested and remanded into the custody of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. We were able to resolve the situation without further incident with the assistance of Smithfield Police Department and Young Justice, a new initiative to advance the training, support, and development of young metahumans. These exceptional young men and women are willing and determined to do their part. We thank them for their service and their efforts to help protect and defend each and every human being on Earth. We are the Justice League. Thank you.”
Aquaman stepped back from the podium as the reporters unleashed a torrent of questions.
“Aquaman! Over here, Aquaman! Your highness!”
“…What was the payload!?”
“…Was there an intended target, Aquaman?”
“…Justify intervening in international…”
“--What about Kobra!”
“… The members of the new initiative minors, Aquaman?”
“--What is Young Justice?”
“Aquaman, when can we talk to…”
“--Who are Young Justice?”
The official spokeswoman took Aquaman’s place in front of the array of microphones, “Thank you, ladies and gentlemen of the press, thank you-- thank you! I will be taking your questions at this time!”
Wonder Girl sighed and muted WGBS. She put her head in her hands, her silver armbands chiming mournfully. This was not going how she imagined. The police had not been as excited by their victory as Wonder Girl had expected. Things had gotten even worse when the F.B.I. arrived to take custody of the Terror Twins. Two extremely rude agents had started berating them about property damage and taking the law into their own hands and risking innocent lives. They didn’t seem to care that Impulse had zoomed all seven hostages straight to the nearest hospital, saving everyone a lot of time and worry. They didn’t care that the Terror Twins had been defeated!
Then the Justice League had arrived, falling out of the dark blue sky in a blaze of light. Wonder Woman had taken command of the situation and they had been taken back to the Hall of Justice for medical treatment and, now, to stew.
Waiting.
“That went well,” Robin turned to face the group, “Really.”
It was late evening and the sun was setting. White lights gleamed in the garden outside the windows. The five members of Young Justice had, once again, taken up residence in the waiting room in the West Gallery of the Hall of Justice. If felt like they spent so much time in here, they should call it ‘headquarters’.
There was an open box of donuts and four untouched bottles of water on the marble counter.
“Really?” Superboy scowled. “First, we were treated like criminals, then we were treated like children, and now sidekicks to the local cops? That went well?”
“We’re not in jail, we’re still together, and we saved the hostages,” Robin ticked the points off on his finger. “Yeah, that went well.”
“We didn’t get the credit, though,” Impulse said, stuffing a donut in his mouth. “Mmm, jelly!”
“What, do you need a medal?” Artemis said. “Robin’s right. We saved the hostages, that’s what counts.”
Artemis rolled her shoulder gingerly. It was wrapped in adhesive bandages. Superboy shrugged moodily and stared out of the window. “So. Now what? Are they going to shut us down?”
“I don’t know.” Robin looked pale under his cowl.
Wonder Girl swallowed and stared at the door. What was talking them so long? “I’m sorry,” Cassandra said abruptly. “This is all my fault.”
“I’m not sorry,” Superboy said, sticking out his jaw. “We did a good job. It was even… a good plan, Robin.”
Robin startled, opened his mouth, and then looked down at the table. Cassandra shuddered. She would not want to be in trouble with The Batman.
“The plan could’ve used some work.” Artemis chuckled. “Or I really need shoulder padding. Ouch.”
Cassandra bit her lip. “I’m really sorry, Cissie”
“That’s… my fault,” Robin said softly. “My cape release jammed. New suit. Needs testing. I underestimated their strength and speed. It won’t happen again.”
“Rob, you did good,” Impulse said. He appeared next to the Boy Wonder with a crack, clapped him on the back, and handed him a glazed donut. “Have a donut. These things are wicked.”
Robin sighed and dropped the donut on a pile of magazines. Artemis also refused a donut and Impulse shrugged, popped it in his mouth, and started chewing loudly. “Suit, mmph, yourselves. Saving people makes me hun-gry.”
Artemis shrugged and then winced. “Ouch. That’s not what they seem to think.”
“We did cause some property damage.” Robin rubbed the back of his cowl.
“The Justice League causes property damage all the time!” Superboy said.
“And they clean it up,” Artemis retorted.
“They won’t let me clean it up!” Superboy threw up his hands. “How am I supposed to help when they won’t let us do anything!”
Superboy’s voice echoed through the room and the glass windows shivered. One of the water bottles fell over with a sad plop. Impulse swept it into the garbage with a whoosh of displaced air. “Careful, man. I like my eardrums intact.”
“I…” Superboy sighed. “Sorry.”
The door to the waiting room slid open and Wonder Woman appeared. The Queen of the Amazons was draped in a blue cloak pinned with a golden clasp, swept back over one shoulder. Wonder Woman’s Lariat of Hestia cast a golden glow across the polished floor, but her stern eyes were dark. Cassandra dropped her gaze as a sudden surge of guilt filled her stomach with butterflies.
Okay, how can this get any worse?
“Children,” Wonder Woman said. “There are two F.B.I. agents waiting to speak to you in the conference room. You will listen to what they have to say.”
Cassandra sighed. Jinxed it.
Wonder Woman escorted Young Justice across the hallway to the conference room. Two men in matching cheap black suits with red ties were sitting on the far side of a table formed of translucent white crystal. There was a golden shield mounted on the far wall of polished grey granite. Batman stood opposite the F.B.I., his arms folded across his chest. The room felt cold.
“Sit down,” Batman said, and the temperature seemed to drop a few degrees.
Wonder Girl, Artemis, and Robin sat down. Impulse stuffed the second half of his donut in his mouth with a guilty start. “I’ll stand,” Superboy muttered, leaning against the wall.
The two federal agents stood up. The first was short and thin, with quick eyes and shining black hair. The second was tall and broad, with dark skin and a shaved head. He had a black beard peppered with grey.
“We agreed that these two men could speak to you—briefly.” The Batman’s voice sounded like frozen gravel. “We’ve made it clear that your efforts were authorized and successful in resolving the situation.”
“I’m Special Agent Ishido Yamada,” the first man said with a faint curl to his lip. “This is my partner, Special Agent Donald Dajuste. I understand the police have already taken your statements.”
“That’s right, sir,” Robin said.
Superboy snorted in disdain.
“You don’t need any additional statements, Special Agent Yamada,” Batman said, arms folded across his chest.
“No,” Special Agent Dajuste said. His voice had a pleasant drawl, but his dark eyes were flat and emotionless. “We just want to remind these heroes that the Federal Bureau of Investigation will hold them responsible for any unauthorized incidents, if such a terrible thing like that were ever to occur. Ain’t that right, Agent Yamada?”
Yamada gave him a thin smile that didn’t reach his darting eyes. “If, for example, you weren’t supposed to intervene in a delicate and dangerous hostage negotiation with zero training or consultation with the police. If, for example, you weren’t supposed to cause untold property damage to private property.”
“Like throwing a police car through a burger joint, now, that might upset people. If it weren’t all official and authorized and helpful,” Dajuste drawled. “That just might, just might lead to charges of criminal mischief, trespassing, and obstruction of justice. Do we make ourselves clear, boys and girls?”
“Yeah, it’s clear you’re an asshole,” Superboy muttered.
“What was that, boy?” Dajuste said with a smile that didn’t reach his eyes. “I couldn’t quite hear you, Super-boy.”
“He said it’s very clear, sir,” Robin interjected. “Crystal clear.”
Artemis choked on a laugh and Cassandra put her head in her hands again. How, how, how can this get any worse?
“That’s enough,” The Dark Knight said.
“Yes, that’s all for now, Special Agent Dajuste,” Wonder Woman said firmly. “Thank you for your assistance in this matter.”
“Ma’am,” Agent Dajuste said. “We’ll be watching you, boys and girls.”
The two F.B.I. Special Agents were shown the door. When the glass door slid closed behind them, Superboy jerked upright from the wall with a snarl, “That arrogant piece of—“
“That’s enough, Superboy,” Wonder Woman said gently. “Sit. Down.”
Superboy sat down and the revolving chair under him creaked dangerously. Impulse spun in a circle, trailing tiny sparks of yellow energy. Batman and Wonder Woman stood on the other side of the table. They glanced at each other and, as if on cue, Batman unfolded his arms. “Congratulations. You have completed your first mission as Young Justice.”
Impulse fell out of his chair. Wonder Girl’s jaw dropped. “We did?”
Robin raised his hand. “Are we in any legal trouble, sir?”
“No.” Batman’s voice was still cold and flat. “To prevent any legal repercussions from your actions, we have taken full responsibility for your mission. That does not mean that we are happy.”
“So we’re in other kinds of trouble?” Artemis muttered.
“Yes.” Batman nodded. “You prioritized saving the hostages and resolved the crisis with zero casualties. Good work. But your insubordination is dangerous and disrespectful. It could have compromised our mission in Vlatava. This will have consequences.”
Cassandra put her head flat on the table. How can this keep getting worse?
“For now, understand that we are very disappointed.” Wonder Woman quelled a mutinous glance from Superboy with a look. “Now, the next part of your training begins.”
HAPPY HARBOR, RHODE ISLAND:
The Batwing skimmed the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. The moon glimmered on the churning waves from behind thin wisps of cloud. The stealth aircraft was little more than a shadow wreathed in spray and mist. The cockpit was silent. Tim peered out of the cockpit at the shimmering ocean waves. “Sir… where are we going?”
Bruce was silent for a moment. “I’ll explain when we arrive, Robin.”
Tim nodded. The silence was killing him. His brain was buzzing with a dozen permutations of the conversation he wanted to have with his father. Was this the right time? They were stuck in the cockpit-- did that improve the probability of a positive outcome or worsen the odds? Tim took a breath.
Before he started to speak, Bruce seemed to read his mind. “I’ll explain everything when we land.”
“Yessir.”
The Batwing created twin plumes of white spray as it raced towards a mountain that rose out of the ocean, framed by tendrils of backlit fog. Tim frowned as he stared at the distant object over the seat in front of him. As they got closer, Tim could see that the squat mountain, little more than a giant boulder, was covered in straggly pines bent by the ocean winds. The dark trees materialized out of the night, closer and closer, until Batman cut back on the throttle and the craft hovered over the pounding surf at the base of the mountain. A concrete slab retracted into the earth and revealed a lightless tunnel that led underground.
The Dark Knight edged the Batwing inside the tunnel, turbines whining. The shaft angled downwards until it opened up into a vast cavern, the ceiling lost in shadows. Batman landed the stealth craft and unsealed the cockpit. Tim could hear the distant slosh of moving water echoing around the damp cavern.
Biting his tongue, Robin waited for the Caped Crusader to enter a command into the computer. Lights flickered into life in a ring around the top of the cavern and revealed a concrete landing bay above a pool of black water. More lights glowed beneath the surface of the pool like undersea crystals. The access tunnel behind them was sealed behind a steel door. Ahead of them was a cargo area and then a second door marked with a band of faded yellow paint. Above the elevator was a transparent observation deck, still dark, that overlooked the cavern.
When they disembarked, Batman turned and lowered his cowl with a hiss, running one glove through his sweat-dark hair. His pale blue eyes were focused on his son. Timothy quickly disengaged his own cowl. Goosebumps raced up his neck in the cold air.
“Welcome to the Secret Sanctuary, Tim,” Bruce Wayne said. “This was one of the original headquarters of the Justice League. Now it’s your new training facility and headquarters.”
Despite his prodigious intellect, it still took Tim a fraction of a second to process what had just happened. “Our… our...our new headquarters?”
“Yes,” Bruce said with a tiny smile. “This is the new home of Young Justice.”
Tim was flabbergasted. “Even after…”
“Especially after the incident in Smithfield.” Bruce nodded.
Tim hesitated. “We really just wanted to help, sir. We thought it was an opportunity to demonstrate that we can operate in the field on our own. It was a good plan.”
Once again, Bruce was silent for a moment. “It was a good plan,” he admitted with a thin smile, “but you disobeyed my direct orders. You ignored my advice, put your friends in danger, and suffered the consequences.” He held up his hand to forestall any interruptions. “And I’m proud of what you did. You rescued the hostages. No civilians were hurt. But I’m very disappointed that you didn’t trust me, Tim.”
Timothy flushed. “Bruce, I…”
“I know you’re restless. Dick was the same when he founded the Teen Titans. He was around your age.” Bruce’s eyes flashed in the shadows. “But, yes, I didn’t want you to operate entirely on your own. Things are different now. There’s more scrutiny. There’s more risk.”
Timothy nodded.
“I could tell you that the stunt you pulled with your friends put this project at risk, but that’s not true.” Bruce rubbed the bridge of his nose with a snort. “It was just the evidence we needed to convince the others this team is necessary.”
“It was?” Tim gasped. “Wait, it really worked?”
Bruce smiled. “To an extent. Wonder Woman and I have trained young heroes before. We know that you need to grow and learn on your own. Without your stunt, other members might have tried to ignore the situation and keep you out of the field-- exacerbating the crisis in the future”
“So this is… punishment?” Tim said, frowning. “Wait, can we even leave Secret Sanctuary?”
“Yes,” Bruce said. “You can go on missions under supervision. That’s the only way this is going to happen.”
“So we’re on probation,” Tim muttered.
“Yes,” Bruce said with a grim nod. “The government and the Justice League are watching. Be careful. If the four of you don’t demonstrate responsibility and respect, this team is over.”
Robin nodded. He understood what his father was saying. The government would throw a fit. Cassandra’s mother would take her back to Gateway City, Green Arrow would take Artemis back to Star City, and Superman would take Kon-El back to Metropolis. Young Justice would be over. “I understand, sir.”
“Then let’s go upstairs and see the others,” Bruce said.
“Yessir!” Tim looked sideways at his father with a growing smile, “Her plan worked. Cassandra was right.”
Bruce laughed. “Don’t push your luck, Tim.”
“Yes, sir.”
Wonder Woman stood in front of the five members of Young Justice, her dark blue cloak thrown over one shoulder. Diana stood against a concrete wall labeled Level B2. Next to her were Green Lantern, the Flash, Black Canary, and Red Tornado. Batman stood in the shadows behind her; behind him there was a circular platform embedded at the base of the concrete bulwark. There was a disc at the base of the platform that looked like solid crystal divided by spokes of silver metal.
“Since you are determined to stay together and fight for peace and justice,” Wonder Woman said with a smile, “we are reopening Mount Justice. The mountain will be your home, your training facility, and your base of operations. You can engage in missions with our full support.”
“You will operate on our terms,” Batman said grimly. “Black Canary and Red Tornado from the Birds of Prey have volunteered to oversee your necessary training. I will assign you missions.”
“Real missions?” Superboy demanded.
“Yes, but covert,” Batman said, “We cannot afford any more unwanted attention.”
“That wasn’t our fault,” Superboy growled.
“But it is your responsibility,” Batman replied. “The world expects more from you. We expect more from you. If you don’t meet our standards, you won’t leave this mountain. Do I make myself clear? Good. Red Tornado.”
“Greetings, children,” Red Tornado intoned in his robotic voice. “I have volunteered to live in Mount Justice and supervise your off-hours. As I require no sleep, sustenance, or recreation, I will be available at all times.”
“Great,” Superboy whispered.
“I’ll provide extra training when I can spare the time,” Black Canary said, with one hand on her hip. “I expect a lot from you. Starting with the ability to follow directions, Superboy. That’s the first step towards fighting together as a real team. If you do that, I think I have a lot to teach you-- all of you-- if you’re up to it.”
“This is wicked!” Impulse grinned. “Can’t wait for you to show me some moves!”
“Cool.” Robin grinned. “Very cool.”
Superboy just grunted.
Wonder Girl lifted a few inches into the air she was so excited. “We’re SO up for it!”
Green Lantern chuckled. “It’ll be a few hours until your training facility is ready. I’ll be repairing the mountain, but once it’s back in operation it’s up to you to keep this thing running. Good luck, kids. You’ll need it out there.”
Batman pointed at the circular platform of glowing crystal behind him. “This is a zeta platform. It connects to the Hall of Justice and Laputa. We have programmed the platform to recognize your identities.”
“Be warned, we expect much from you,” the Queen of the Amazons said. “You have begun a dangerous journey. There are greater threats to young metahumans every day. We know you are stronger, and safer, together. We respect your dedication and your ability, but do not be afraid to ask us for counsel or aid.”
“We’re here to help,” the Flash said. “And we really, really don’t expect you to save the world right away. We’ll handle the big stuff. Try to attract a little less attention while you’re getting your legs under you, right kid?”
Impulse’s eyes were wide and innocent and he pointed at his chest with two thumbs, “Who, me?”
“No promises,” Wonder Girl grinned.
Artemis tried not to laugh and a smile flickered across Robin’s face. Batman cleared his throat and the five members of Young Justice stood up straight. Wonder Girl put her hands on her hips and stuck out her chest. They were ready for anything.
Wonder Woman smiled. “Stay together and protect each other. We know you will be great heroes.”
Batman loomed out of the shadows. “School is over. Your real training starts now.”
Impulse raised his hand with a grin. “I call top bunk!”
Distant lights glittered on the dark waters. It was a warm summer’s night, but there was a swift wind that blew off the bay and across the face of the mountain. Bruce Wayne wrapped his cape around his chest. He felt tired. His shoulders sagged and he stared into the darkness, thinking. He couldn’t let the others, especially his son, see him this way.
Worried.
Full of doubt.
“Did we do the right thing?”
“I believe so.” Wonder Woman landed lightly on the concrete balcony, hidden behind a holographic screen. She adjusted her blue cloak and then stepped forward to stand beside the Dark Knight. Clasping her hands, she leaned over the cold railing.
“Clark doesn’t agree,” Bruce said. “He doesn’t understand that, unless he gives Kon-El a chance to prove himself, to do some good, he might lose the boy for good.”
“You and I have trained many young warriors, Bruce, he has not,” Diana said softly. “This is the right decision.”
Bruce Wayne shook his head slightly. “They’re cocky… untested. They’ll take risks.”
“They are teenagers.” Diana smiled.
“They need to work together,” Batman said. “I’m concerned that adding new members is… premature. Did you speak with Aquaman?”
“I did,” Diana said. “Aqualad is ready to join the team.”
Bruce released a small sigh. “My dossier is less than thorough. It is… difficult to gain information on Atlantis.”
“It’s good to know even you have your limits, Bruce.” Diana smiled. “Don’t worry. I’ve met the young man on several visits to Poseidonis. He is a former student at the Conservatory of Sorcery and serves by the king’s side. Aqualad will be a benefit to the team. He is level-headed, strong-willed, and insightful. The others can learn much from him, and he is eager to learn more about the Surface World in turn.”
Bruce grunted. He was just… testing the waters. Worse, he was punning. He must be more strained than he thought. More worried.
Ultimately, Bruce knew that he trusted Diana’s judgment. If she believed that young Atlantean, Kaldur’ahm, would be a benefit to team, then he was on board.
“Very well,” Bruce said.
“We made the right decision, Bruce,” Diana reassured him. “This is their chance to grow into true heroes.”
“I hope so, Diana,” Bruce said, staring out into the night at the lights on the dark water. “I hope that they realize… this might be their only chance.”
AN UNKNOWN LOCATION:
Tuppence Terror screamed and thrashed in her restraints. Her heart was pounding like a panicked rabbit, faster and faster. She could hear the blood rushing in her head, each heartbeat shooting a wave of tingling dizziness up her spine. “No!” Tuppence screamed. “I won’t go back, I can’t go back! I’ll kill you! I’ll kill all of you!”
Tuppence was strapped to a steel gurney with inertron manacles around her wrists and ankles. There was a padded strap across her forehead and waist. Rocking fro side to side, she tried to topple the gurney to no avail. Four men wheeled the gurney down a brightly lit hallway. It was industrial beige with sterile fluorescent lighting.
The wheels squealed on the spotless floor. Four sets of boots clicked in harmony.
The desperate girl threw her head from side to side, straining; the muscles in her neck stood out like steel wires. She let out a pained moan and collapsed onto the gurney.
The wheels squealed on the spotless floor. Four sets of boots clicked like insects.
“Please,” Tuppence groaned. “Please, where’s Tommy… where’s my brother?”
She could feel the gurney slam against a pair of swinging doors and the lights flickered. There was a heavy, dragging sound and long plastic flaps flicked across her face and body. “Where are we going?” Tuppence screamed, and her voice broke. “Where-- ”
Tuppence blinked. She was so dizzy. The gurney jerked to a halt. Tuppence tried to look from side to side, thrashing her head back and forth with an animal snarl. She could hear footsteps coming closer and strained to see out of the corner of her eye. No, it was directly above her. She rolled her eyes back in her head-- nothing! “Who are you! I’ll...I’ll k-k-k…”
“Yes, I know you will, my dear.”
Tuppence flinched at the motherly voice. She flinched again when a dry hand in a plastic glove stroked the top of her head. Rubbery fingers scraped across her sweat-stained forehead.
“There, there. You’re just not very good at killing are you, dear?”
“P-p-please,” Tuppence moaned. “My brother, where’s Tommy? What did you do with him?”
“No, not very good at killing at all. But that’s perfectly alright. We prefer our students to have an… open mind.”
The mysterious woman patted Tuppence’s cheek.
“Please… not… again…”
“Shhh, child. You’ll have your chance to kill soon enough. Cadmus might be no more, but the good work is never done. Welcome to Medea.”