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Post by DocQuantum on Oct 8, 2023 22:59:06 GMT
May, 1988:
Markov House, a mansion in midtown Cincinnati, Ohio, had stood as a bastion of vigilance against the shadows that threatened the city for over a year now. But tonight, the headquarters of the Outsiders was plagued by an unusual foe: boredom. Black Lightning, Geo-Force, Katana, Halo, Windfall, Celsius, and Negative Woman were gathered around a cluttered table. Discarded pizza boxes and empty soda cans testified to their fruitless vigil.
Black Lightning, the team's long-suffering leader, broke the heavy silence. His frustration was palpable, hanging like a storm cloud over the room.
With a sigh, Jeff Pierce said, "Guys, I appreciate the dedication to the team, but it's been weeks, and we haven't had a real mission that requires the Outsiders since our battle with Doctor Light and his team last month. (*) And we all remember how inactive we'd been before that case."
[(*) Editor's note: See The Outsiders: The Light Brigade.]
"I am sorry, my friend," Geo-Force said, frowning. "I feel responsible for our current predicament," said Brion Markov sheepishly. "I had believed that all American cities would need us as much as Gotham City did."
"It's not your fault, Brion," Jeff said with a shrug of his shoulders. "We should have pointed out in the first place that Cincinnati isn't exactly brimming with super-villains like Gotham and Metropolis are."
Katana, the master of her blade, chimed in. Leaning back in the couch, one arm resting under her head, Tatsu Yamashiro said in a disappointed tone, "We're just not needed here."
Halo, ordinarily the team's ever-optimistic beacon of light, nodded in agreement as she sat petting her kitten. A disheartened Gabrielle Doe added, "I even tried to sign up as a volunteer at the local women's shelter, but... they told me they've already got it covered."
Windfall couldn't help but share her own recent underwhelming experience. "I know what you mean, Gaby," said Wendy Doe, obviously frustrated. "I spotted a purse snatcher last night, but by the time I could swoop down and create a gust of wind to stop him in his tracks, the police already had him in cuffs!"
Even Negative Woman, who had seen some of the darkest corners in the world, found herself grappling with the mundane. "The most action I have seen lately was when I assisted an old lady to cross a busy street last week," said Valentina Vostok, her features disguised by special bandages that covered every inch of her skin. "I used to face Soviet assassins on a regular basis, and it has now come to this?"
Celsius, whose powers balanced between fire and ice, contemplated their predicament. Arani Caulder suggested, "Maybe we should consider moving to a city with more... demand for super-heroes?"
As always, Black Lightning refused to yield to despair. "We can't just abandon Cincinnati," Jeff said resolutely. "There's got to be something we can do here."
The members of the Outsiders sat in quiet contemplation, their spirits weighed down by the monotony of their recent endeavors. The room was filled with a sense of listlessness as they exchanged glances, seeking some spark of inspiration to reignite their heroic purpose.
Just then, the door swung open, and a burst of youthful enthusiasm flooded the room. Cold Shoulder entered with boundless energy, his very presence a stark contrast to the team's prevailing gloom. Celsius and Black Lightning had taken the teenage meta-human under their wing months ago after Mario Ortega had discovered his power to generate freezing temperatures. (*)
[(*) Editor's note: See The Outsiders: School Days.]
Mario couldn't contain his excitement. "Guys, guys! My team just saved a kitten stuck in a tree! We're being interviewed for a news report on the radio!"
The Outsiders exchanged bewildered looks, realization dawning upon them as they had been outshone by their own proteges, and for the first time in a while, a glimmer of hope flickered within them.
Amused by the situation, the team left the confines of Markov House to investigate, eager for any opportunity, no matter how small, to make a difference in their beloved city once more.
Under the bright Cincinnati sun, the Outsiders watched as their fledgling proteges converged in a nearby bustling park. Mario Ortega, the tough high school student turned costumed hero, couldn't contain his joy as he recounted their recent rescue mission on the walk there.
Last year the Outsiders had come up with the idea to form a team of young heroes who would be ready to perform good deeds wherever they were needed in the city. This proposed team had originally been nicknamed the Junior Outsiders until Cold Shoulder and the others finally decided upon the Cincinnati Champs. Giacomo, a local hero who had been operating on his own ever since he helped the Outsiders defeat his father, the Monarch of Menace, had been a natural choice as leader of this little team. (*) Two local teenagers with meta-human powers of their own had also been discovered recently and were eager to be part of the new team. Jenna Petrovic, a blonde girl with a brilliant smile dressed in a radiant yellow and white costume was known as Luminary, thanks to her ability to generate light. Eddie Robinson, an African-American youth in a camouflage green soldier-style uniform who called himself Kid Bravo, was a daring, well-muscled acrobat with the power to perfectly mimic any athletic feat he had ever seen.
[(*) Editor's note: See The Outsiders: Moving On.]
The young and triumphant Cincinnati Champs bathed in the warm glow of adoration from a grateful little girl and other appreciative citizens who had witnessed their valiant rescue of a stranded kitten in a tree. Amidst the cheers and applause, a bow-tied, bespectacled, balding, and middle-aged news reporter from a local radio station assumed center stage. With a microphone in hand, he turned his attention to the team leader, a charismatic young man donning a stylized jester's outfit.
"Giacomo, can you enlighten our audience about the genesis of the Cincinnati Champs and the driving force behind your dedication to community service?" the fastidious reporter asked with the same practiced newsman's voice he used for every news segment, whether a gritty crime story or a human interest story like this one.
The King of Jesters, his eyes gleaming with passion, took the spotlight with eloquence, his words ringing out amid the eager crowd. "Certainly, Les!" he said buoyantly. "You see, our story began with me, a young hero who found inspiration not in the shadow of my notorious father, the Monarch of Menace, but in the light of Danny Kaye's The Court Jester. From there, I embraced the role of not just a hero, but a mentor. These three remarkable young heroes by my side--"
He gestured to his steadfast teammates Cold Shoulder, Luminary, and Kid Bravo, each radiating their own brand of heroism.
"--they came to me with the same burning desire to make our city, and indeed all of Ohio, a better place. We've learned together, grown together, and now, as the Cincinnati Champs, we stand united in our mission to protect and uplift our beloved community."
Les Nessman, the meticulous newsman, listened attentively, nodding in approval as the jester painted a vivid picture of their journey. Behind them, the Outsiders watched with hearts swelled with pride, seeing the fruits of their mentorship flourishing in the eyes of these young heroes.
As the interview continued, Black Lightning whispered to Geo-Force, "Well, at least the next generation is on the right track."
Geo-Force nodded in agreement, a newfound sense of purpose dawning upon him. "Yes, perhaps we do not need to be the big heroes here. Let us allow these youths to have the spotlight for now, and we can focus on bigger threats when they come."
The Outsiders shared a collective nod, their resolve rekindled as they recognized the importance of their role as mentors to Cold Shoulder and the other Cincinnati Champs.
Addressing his team, Black Lightning said, "We may not always have grand battles, but our presence here has made a difference. Cincinnati deserves local heroes of its own, even if it's for the little things."
As the crowd dissipated and the WKRP news reporter left, the Outsiders met the still-excited young heroes at the scene of their heroic feats.
"You kids did great today," Katana said warmly to the teen heroes. "Keep up the good work!"
"Thanks, Katana!" Cold Shoulder replied, grinning. "We're lucky to have you guys as our mentors.
Hope had begun to flourish once more in the various members of the Outsiders, and they would stand ready to confront whatever challenges came their way in Cincinnati, be they large or small. Still, the questions about how much they could truly be needed in this relatively peaceful city would continue to trouble them.
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Post by DocQuantum on Oct 15, 2023 23:56:50 GMT
Days later, the Outsiders, having been summoned to aid the Justice League of America in dealing with an infiltration of Martian doubles, now returned to Markov House with a newfound sense of camaraderie. As they arrived, a palpable sense of relief washed over them, for the ordeal had been grueling, yet they had emerged victorious. (*)
[(*) Editor's note: See Justice League of America: The Martian Chronicles, Chapter 8: Project Mind-Knife.]
However, their jubilation was short-lived. Black Lightning, Geo-Force, Halo, and Windfall approached their headquarters with anticipation, only to find Katana, Celsius, and Negative Woman waiting for them outside, their expressions etched with concern.
Celsius, a mistress of cold and heat, spoke in hushed tones. "You must see to Dr. Jace. She's been in the hangar all this time, working on the Hoverdisc. But there's something about her that I can't pinpoint. It just feels like... there's something wrong."
The team walked into the dimly lit hangar of Markov House, the atmosphere tense. Within the hangar was their trusty Hoverdisc, a Markovian-built, magnetically based flying craft that had been greatly enhanced by Gorilla City's advanced technology as a token of gratitude from Solovar. (*) It stood there like a sentinel, surrounded by an aura of uncertainty.
[(*) Editor's note: See Showcase: The Crimson Fox: Working Girl.]
Their benefactor Dr. Helga Jace, a Markovian scientist whose invaluable aid had seen them through numerous trials, emerged from behind the flying craft to stand before them, and the team could immediately tell that something was undeniably amiss.
Geo-Force, the brooding powerhouse with earth-shifting abilities, strode forward, unease gnawing at him from within. He clenched his fists as he watched Dr. Jace with a wary eye, sensing the subtle shift in the air.
Dr. Helga Jace, a middle-aged woman with gray hair, greeted the returning heroes with a façade of enthusiasm. "Welcome back, my dear Outsiders," she chimed with a rehearsed smile. Her forced energy seemed to conceal something deeper, something that left the heroes on edge. "I trust you've had quite the adventure. But fear not, for I have returned to work my magic on the Hoverdisc."
Geo-Force, knowing Dr. Jace better than the others, muttered under his breath, "Something's not right."
The others exchanged wary glances, a silent communication of shared concern. They had trusted Dr. Jace, had relied on her expertise many times before, but her odd behavior had them questioning everything.
Halo couldn't hide her apprehension. "Dr. Jace, you seem… different," ventured the young woman.
The scientist's eyes, behind those glasses, flickered with an enigmatic glint. "Different? Oh, my dear, perhaps I've simply become more focused on my work."
With a frown, Katana interjected, "Focused, indeed. But on what, exactly?"
Dr. Jace's gestures, once familiar, now seemed shrouded in an unsettling unfamiliarity. She moved closer to the Hoverdisc, a hint of anxiety slipping through her façade.
The Outsiders couldn't shake the feeling that something sinister lurked beneath this altered persona. They were warriors, protectors, and detectives. They had faced villains of all sorts, but a trusted ally gone awry presented a different kind of challenge.
Suddenly, the hangar was plunged into chaos as the lights flickered like dying stars, and their prized flying craft shuddered and went eerily silent.
"What's happening to the Hoverdisc?" cried Black Lightning.
All eyes turned to Dr. Jace. A glint of guilt danced in her eyes, shrouded by a veil of deception. "I... I'm not sure," she said nervously. "Let me take a look."
She approached the malfunctioning craft, but instead of repairing it, she stealthily completed the sabotage of its delicate systems.
"Is something wrong, Doctor?" Brion Markov asked with suspicion as he moved forward to get a better glimpse.
But before they heard a response, the room bore witness to a nightmarish transformation. The scientist they had trusted, Dr. Jace, now shape-shifted, her human façade melting away like wax to reveal her true green-skinned Martian form.
The Martian imposter who had been Dr. Helga Jace just a moment ago grinned evilly. "Your trust has always been your weakness, Outsiders."
The shock of betrayal reverberated through the team, their loyalty and trust shattered in an instant. The Outsiders, champions of justice, had now become embroiled in a perilous confrontation with an enemy lurking within their very ranks.
Celsius took a battle stance, her hands crackling with power, one radiating freezing rays while the other pulsed with raging flames. "Whoever -- whatever you are, we'll expose your lies and put an end to this!" she cried.
The Martian impostor's once-confident demeanor crumbled, replaced by unease at the sight of her flaming hand. As Celsius launched her dual assault, the air was set ablaze, and frigid air whipped around, smothering the invader's powers. It staggered, forced to retreat.
"You'll regret this!" cried the Martian, fleeing into the night.
The Outsiders, their unity tried and tested, stood tall amidst the remnants of their fallen trust.
"We can't let this deter us," said Black Lightning. "We'll rebuild and find a way to move forward without her."
Halo nodded solemnly, her gaze fixated on her unsettled teammates. "We'll still have to find someone to repair the Hoverdisc, though," said Gabrielle Doe.
"I'm sure Bruce Wayne will help us get it fixed, Gaby," replied Katana. "WayneTech certainly has the resources to do so."
Determination played upon Geo-Force's face as he said, "We'll overcome this as a team -- for Markovia, for the Outsiders."
As the Outsiders would soon learn, the revelation of a Martian impostor in their midst was not a unique situation, for similar events were happening to other heroes elsewhere. Even Batman himself was reeling from a betrayal of his own that struck him at the core. (*) They would also learn that the real Dr. Helga Jace had been a prisoner of the Martians for months, possibly even years, and would now be returned to her native Markovia to recover from the ordeal.
[(*) Editor's note: See Batman: Meanwhile, Back in Gotham City.]
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Post by DocQuantum on Oct 16, 2023 0:26:36 GMT
Unknown to the Outsiders, the Martian impersonator's betrayal was only the beginning of a season of endings for the team.
Within the familiar confines of the Outsiders' Cincinnati headquarters, a palpable unease hung in the air. The common area, usually bustling with activity, now simmered with a tense stillness. Black Lightning approached Arani Caulder, known as Celsius, who was methodically packing her belongings.
"Arani, what's going on?" he asked. "You're packing up?"
Celsius released a weary sigh, her eyes reflecting the weight of the decision she was about to share. "Jeff, I've discovered long-lost family back in India," she explained, her tone neutral. "It's something I need to explore."
Jeff Pierce, known to the world as Black Lightning, furrowed his brow. The connection he shared with Arani had deepened over the past few months, and he couldn't shake the worry that gripped his heart. Was she ending their burgeoning relationship, too?
"I get that, Arani. Family comes first. How long will you be gone? And... what about us?" Jeff's voice held a fragile hope, his emotions laid bare.
"I'm not sure," Arani replied, averting her gaze. "It could be a while. But, Jeff, honey -- I need you to understand..."
Before Arani could articulate her thoughts, Valentina Vostok, the enigmatic Negative Woman, entered the room, her presence marked by a subtle undercurrent of uncertainty. Her eyes met Arani's, and she spoke with a tone that hinted at both fear and resolve.
"I've decided to go with her, Jeff. I need to figure out some things about myself."
Jeff's eyebrow arched in surprise, a deeper concern etching lines on his face. "Val, what's going on?" he asked, his voice tinged with shock at the unexpected revelation. "I know you've been on edge lately, but..."
Negative Woman sighed, her voice carrying the weight of her burdens. "I'm still on the run, Jeff. Soviet agents still won't leave me alone. They've followed me here as they've followed me everywhere. I need to get away -- to find a home that is not so high-profile as the Outsiders, somewhere they cannot so easily track me down again."
In this moment of vulnerability, Celsius placed a reassuring hand on Negative Woman's shoulder. It was a silent gesture, an unspoken promise of solidarity amidst the uncertainty that hung in the air. "We'll keep in touch, Jeff. I promise."
Black Lightning nodded, his heart heavy with the burden of their impending departures. "Take the time you need, Arani... Val..." he said, his voice laden with sorrow. "Just stay safe, both of you."
Arani Caulder stepped forward, embracing Jeff Pierce tightly, her touch filled with a bittersweet tenderness. She held him closely, her eyes closed as if committing every detail of the moment to memory. Pulling away, she placed a passionate kiss on his lips, leaving Jeff stunned and breathless as her long, raven-black hair cascaded over her shoulders. "I will never forget you, Jeff, wherever my travels take me."
With a shared glance that spoke volumes, Celsius and Negative Woman left the headquarters. The door swung shut behind them, the sound echoing in the now emptier room. Left alone, Black Lightning stood amidst the lingering echoes of their departure, his heart heavy.
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Post by DocQuantum on Oct 16, 2023 0:37:25 GMT
The next one to leave, days later, would be one of the team's founders, who was also their only remaining tie to the Markovian government that currently funded the Outsiders.
The setting sun cast a warm, amber glow over Markov House's common area. Jefferson Pierce sat at a cluttered table strewn with high school essays he was grading, while the other members of the team were busy with personal matters. His attention was drawn as Geo-Force entered the room, his countenance marked by solemnity.
"Brion," said Jeff Pierce, looking up. "What's on your mind?
Geo-Force exhaled a heavy sigh, the weight of his words evident in his tone. "Jeff, I am being recalled to Markovia," said Brion Markov. "My nation needs me to serve as its hero-protector and, well, as the Prince." (*)
[(*) Editor's note: See Global Guardians: The Insiders.]
Black Lightning's raised eyebrow conveyed both recognition of the importance of this role and a touch of melancholy. "That's... a significant responsibility, Brion," Jeff said in acknowledgement. "Congratulations are in order, I suppose."
Geo-Force looked at him appreciatively. "Thank you, Jeff. I am grateful for your understanding. But I wanted to make sure that you knew the Outsiders are still welcome to use Markov House for as long as you wish."
Black Lightning nodded, his expression a blend of gratitude and sadness. "That means a lot, Brion," he replied, sincerity in his tone. "Markov House has been our sanctuary over this past year."
Brion's smile held warmth, tinged with a hint of melancholy. "It's been an honor serving with the Outsiders," said Geo-Force, extending his hand. "I hope will cross paths again soon. And I hope the others will forgive me for leaving so abruptly. I do not like long goodbyes."
Jeff shook Brion's hand and spoke his farewell in mind of the deep friendship they had developed over the years. "They'll understand. And I'm sure we'll see each other again soon, Brion. Take care of Markovia, my friend."
With a final nod, Brion Markov turned and departed from the room, leaving Black Lightning alone with his thoughts. The weight of Geo-Force's departure hung in the air.
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Post by lawrenceliberty on Oct 17, 2023 21:33:42 GMT
Good way to bring their story up to date while adding some needed details!
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Post by DocQuantum on Oct 18, 2023 18:11:55 GMT
Thanks, Libby. And don't worry, we'll see some action in this story soon!
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Post by lee on Oct 26, 2023 19:10:22 GMT
I really enjoyed this. It looks like I have a few stories to read to catch up, but I am looking forward to it.
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Post by DocQuantum on Dec 31, 2023 0:23:11 GMT
The opulent living room of Markov House, with its antique furnishings and dimly lit chandeliers, stood in stark contrast to the tension that hung in the air. The once-formidable lineup of the team had dwindled down to Black Lightning, Katana, Halo, and Windfall. Those four now gathered around a table cluttered with maps, gadgets, and remnants of unfinished takeout food. The weight of their circumstances bore down upon them, shrouding the room in a heavy silence.
Looking around the room, Black Lightning began, "All right, team, it's time we have a heart-to-heart. We've been through a lot together, and we've faced challenges that tested us in ways we never imagined."
Curiosity sparked in the eyes of the others as they exchanged glances, eager for the discussion to unfold.
Nodding, Katana prompted him, "Go on, Jeff. What's on your mind?"
With a sigh, Jefferson Pierce said, "First things first, you already know we haven't had much luck keeping members over the last couple of years. First, Vee-Raa had to return to her underground world after her powers began to fade on the surface. (*) Then we lost Batman just before we moved here to Cincinnati. And then Looker left the team after she lost her own powers during the Invasion last year. (*) As for Metamorpho, we haven't seen or heard from him for a few months now, despite his assurances that he still wanted to be part of the team, so I'm afraid we're not going to be able to count on Rex any longer. Celsius and Negative Woman have also recently taken a leave of absence, and my guess is they won't be returning. And now, Geo-Force has informed me that he's been recalled to Markovia to serve in his capacity as Prince as well as a hero-protector."
[(*) Editor's note: See Super-Team Family: Starman and Superman: The Final Night and DC Universe: Invasion, Book 2, Chapter 14: Rally.]
"So we're losing Brion, too?" cried Halo, wide-eyed.
Black Lightning nodded. "He said we can still use Markov House as our team headquarters, but..."
Before he could finish his thought, the room was suddenly thrust into chaos as the ground quaked violently, causing the room to tremble.
"What's going on?!" cried Windfall, confused.
Black Lightning whispered to the others, his voice tense. "Stay sharp, team. We could be under attack."
The room shuddered violently as the Masters of Disaster stormed in, their malevolent presence heralding a tempest of chaos within their once-sacred sanctum. New-Wave, her wrath incarnate, transformed into a raging torrent of water, surging forward with a relentless fury. Coldsnap followed suit, draping the humid surroundings in an icy sheath, leaving all it touched frozen and desolate. Heatstroke, with an infernal zeal, ignited the air, engulfing the untouched area in scorching flames that danced with malicious intent.
Amidst the maelstrom of elemental mayhem, Shakedown, the seismic force at the heart of their destruction, unleashed his earthquake-inducing powers. The very ground trembled beneath their feet, quaking with unchecked power, as debris rained from the ceiling. The assault had wrought structural damage, sending shockwaves through the formerly secure sanctum.
The tension in the air was palpable as battle erupted between the Outsiders and the nefarious Masters of Disaster.
Black Lightning, his crackling electricity mirroring Coldsnap's icy fury, faced off in a relentless war of elements. "Chilly enough for you, Coldsnap?" said Jeff with a grin.
"You'll need more than sparks to stop my deep freeze, Lightning," smirked Coldsnap.
Meanwhile, Katana sprang into action, her mastery over her katana sword evident as she expertly deflected Heatstroke's fiery onslaught.
"Your blade's no match for my searing flames, Katana!" cried the mocking villainess known as Heatstroke.
"I've dealt with hotter flames than yours!" Katana said through gritted teeth as she countered every burst of flame with her sword.
In another corner of the chaotic battlefield, Halo's ethereal form shimmered as she clashed with New-Wave, the living water itself taking shape to challenge the embodiment of light.
"We'll see if you can outshine my waves, Halo!" New-Wave retorted, and launched a watery attack.
But at that moment Halo transitioned her aura to a vivid yellow, producing blinding flashes of light that temporarily disoriented the villainess. "Lights out for you!" shouted Halo.
Windfall, in the throes of battle, employed her wind-control powers to craft a tempestuous vortex, sending Shakedown spinning and disoriented. "You don't have to do this, Shakedown!" she said, concern in her voice.
Shakedown struggled to regain his composure, torn between his loyalty to his team and his feelings for Wendy. "I d-do what I m-must, Wendy," he grumbled.
Amidst the chaos, heroes and villains weaved in and out of battle, each side lending aid to their comrades when needed.
Halo, her aura shifting to a searing red, unleashed destructive heat beams that incinerated the icy barricades Coldsnap set up to trap Black Lightning.
"Much appreciated, Halo!" said Black Lightning with a nod.
"No problem!" she replied.
Katana parried a fiery blast from Heatstroke, only for Black Lightning to send a powerful surge of electricity into the villainess' side.
"Thanks, Lightning!" cried a grateful Katana
Black Lightning nodded. "Anytime, Katana!"
New-Wave summoned a towering wall of water to engulf Halo, but Windfall summoned a fierce gust of wind that dispersed it.
"You saved me, Windfall!" said Halo, relieved.
Windfall smiled and said, "We've got each other's backs, Halo!"
New-Wave's vengeful eyes then locked onto her little sister, Windfall. With a sinister transformation, she morphed into a colossal wave of water, an embodiment of her fury, and sought to drown her own flesh and blood.
"Wendy! You deserve nothing but death, traitor!" yelled New-Wave, her body now a massive wave.
Windfall, desperately struggling to stay afloat, used her wind powers to push herself above the surging waters. "Becky, no!" she cried, struggling to breathe.
The perilous moment teetered on the edge of tragedy, but before Windfall could be overwhelmed, Shakedown, torn between his loyalty to New-Wave and his own doubts about their destructive path, made a bold move. He unleashed his earthquake-inducing abilities, causing the very ground beneath them to convulse violently.
The seismic upheaval rippled through the battlefield, disrupting heroes and villains alike. New-Wave's watery form shattered into countless droplets of rain, her menacing attack thwarted.
"Shakedown, you idiot!" New-Wave shouted, sputtering. "I had the traitor in my grasp, and you ruined it!"
Although sheepish in his demeanor, Shakedown secretly felt a wave of relief at his intervention. "S-sorry, New-Wave! I was j-just trying to knock down the Outsiders!"
The only true casualty in this epic clash was the unfortunate Markov House mansion itself. The stately structure groaned and quaked, bearing the brunt of the relentless battle, windows shattering and walls cracking under the relentless onslaught.
"This place won't survive another minute!" declared an exasperated Black Lightning.
With a grin, Coldsnap replied, "Then let's finish this, shall we?" And the villains began to redouble their efforts, forcing the Outsiders into defensive postures.
Despite their valiant efforts, the Outsiders could not prevent the relentless battle from taking its toll on Markov House. Cracks snaked across its once-sturdy walls, and soon they began to crumble, unable to withstand the relentless assault. Debris and dust filled the air, painting a chaotic backdrop to the epic clash of elements.
"Retreat, everyone!" Black Lightning shouted urgently. "The house won't hold much longer!"
Halo's aura shifted to a resolute green, unleashing halting stasis beams that immobilized New-Wave in her watery form, preventing her from wreaking further havoc.
"Stay put, sis," Windfall said proudly.
Katana, a paragon of martial arts mastery, deftly knocked out Heatstroke while the villainess was distracted. "Time to cool down," she said.
"You dare--?" cried an outraged Coldsnap as he saw his lover knocked out, and focused his freezing powers on Katana, forcing her to deftly leap out of the way.
Halo's powers came into play once more as she shifted to her indigo aura, creating physical tractor beams to pull Coldsnap and the stunned Heatstroke away from the crumbling structure and out onto the front lawn.
But as the Outsiders tried in vain to save their headquarters, New-Wave seized the opportunity to escape with the other members of the Masters of Disaster, their sinister mission accomplished.
The Outsiders soon emerged from the collapsing mansion, their powers and unity saving them from harm. But Markov House, their cherished sanctuary, was beyond repair.
"It's gone... our home," said Windfall sadly.
"We'll find a new place, Wendy," Halo said consolingly. "Somewhere better."
Black Lightning nodded. "We may have lost Markov House, but we're still the Outsiders. We'll rebuild and be ready for whatever comes next."
As the ruins of Markov House crumbled further behind them, the Outsiders stood united. Despite the cost of victory, their spirits remained unbroken and their resolve was stronger than ever.
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Post by DocQuantum on Dec 31, 2023 1:28:27 GMT
Below Wayne Manor, in the heart of the Batcave, Bruce Wayne stood before the Batcomputer, clad in his Batman outfit. The screens glowed, casting an eerie light across his rugged masked face as he spoke with the current leader of the Outsiders.
"--And that, in a nutshell, is what happened, Batman," finished Black Lightning. "Is there any way you can help us explain this to King Gregor? We've already asked Brion, but he obviously finds himself in a conflict of interest, divided between his loyalty to his former team and to Markovia itself."
"Understood," replied Batman, his furrowed brow revealing the weight of the current dilemma. "I will do what I can."
"That's all I ask for," said Jeff Pierce. "Thank you."
***
In the heart of Cincinnati, at a nearby park, the remnants of the Outsiders -- Black Lightning, Katana, Halo, and Windfall -- gathered in their civilian identities, their eyes transfixed upon the wreckage of their former headquarters. The demolition crews toiled diligently, dismantling the unstable structure piece by piece. A heavy atmosphere weighed upon them, as the realization sunk in that it would take years to rebuild their former sanctum.
Jefferson Pierce sighed. "We're homeless now. All because of the Masters of Disaster."
Tatsu Yamashiro, her voice laced with bitterness, couldn't help but voice her discontent. "And Brion's invitation to relocate to Markovia wasn't much help, either," she said bitterly.
Gabrielle Doe's eyes widened with realization as a question emerged from her thoughts. "Wait, what are we even doing in Cincinnati? Why did we all agree to move here without really discussing it?" Wendy Doe nodded in agreement.
Suddenly, it dawned on Jeff, a spark of revelation igniting in his eyes. "You're right. We just went along with it as if it was ordained from on high. But why?"
In the hushed moment that followed, the team grappled with their choices and the ramifications thereof.
"We wanted independence from Batman," began Tatsu in realization, "but we've been floundering without his guidance."
Gaby nodded. "We were looking to you, Jeff, and Rex -- our most experienced members -- for direction."
Frustration etched Jeff's face as he voiced the truth they all recognized. "I just wanted to establish our independence, but we didn't think it through. We abandoned our roots in Gotham and decided on Cincinnati without giving anywhere else a fair chance. Remember how, when Looker got her powers and joined the team shortly after the Crisis, Batman tried to disband the team, but we decided to continue on independently. We even started making plans to relocate to Los Angeles."
"I remember that!" said Gaby in sudden realization.
"Yes, but with all the chaos in Gotham shortly after, Batman asked us to come back," added Tatsu.
"Right," said Jeff. "And then, when we were ready to leave Gotham a second time last year, we never even considered L.A. as an option after Brion told us about Markov House."
The team grew quiet as they realized that they needed to rediscover their purpose and chart a new course.
"We may not have a headquarters, but we're still the Outsiders," said Jeff finally. "We need to find a place where we can really make a difference, just like Batman intended when he first brought us together as a team."
With a shared nod of unity, they embraced the uncertainty of the future, ready to stand together against whatever adversity lay ahead.
***
In his office at the Wayne Foundation Building, Bruce Wayne was speaking with King Gregor of Markovia over his videophone.
"Your Highness, I understand the situation in Markovia regarding the Outsiders and the damages to Markov House," said Bruce. "I want to assure you that we are willing to cover all the costs of repair and restitution."
King Gregor, a figure of authority and resolve, met Bruce's gaze through the video interface. "Mr. Wayne, I appreciate your offer, but the decision has been made. Markov House is beyond repair, and we cannot allow the Outsiders to return."
"Your Highness, please reconsider! They've been loyal allies, protecting your nation from tyranny itself," said Bruce, trying to plead their case. "They deserve a fair chance to make amends. I'm sure your brother, Prince Brion, would agree."
However, King Gregor's stance remained unwavering, a heavy decision born out of necessity. "This is not a matter of loyalty, Mr. Wayne. It's about the preservation of our heritage. Markovia must move forward without them. The Prince supports my decision."
With a tinge of resignation, Bruce acknowledged the weight of the situation. "I understand, Your Highness," he said, resigned. "But I hope that one day you'll reconsider. The Outsiders have rescued countless lives and deserve a second chance."
The videophone call ended, leaving Bruce Wayne alone in his office, grappling with his former team's predicament. Markov House was officially off-limits, and the Government of Markovia was no longer interested in supporting the Outsiders, but the team would continue nevertheless.
Fueled by determination, Bruce redirected his focus toward the vast array of information available to him as he sought potential locations for a new base of operations. He owed the Outsiders that much, especially since they'd always been there for him when he needed them in the past.
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Post by johnreiter902 on Dec 31, 2023 15:23:07 GMT
This, I can see, links up with the story were the Outsiders take over the Green Lantern Citadel
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Post by DocQuantum on Jan 1, 2024 20:53:31 GMT
This, I can see, links up with the story were the Outsiders take over the Green Lantern Citadel You're right about that! Soon I'm going to repost all of the Outsiders-related chapters from Underworld Unleashed here, then start posting new chapters following up on their story. |
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Post by lawrenceliberty on Jan 2, 2024 20:19:12 GMT
Very interesting. I'm eager to read more.
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Post by DocQuantum on Jan 3, 2024 20:01:20 GMT
REPOSTED FROM UNDERWORLD UNLEASHED:
Los Angeles:
"You understand what it is that I am asking you to do," said the man standing behind his large oaken desk, looking out the window at the endless horizon. The tall, broadly built man's accent was typically that of a Midwesterner, but a slight foreign accent could be perceived by those who had an ear for it, at least when his guard was down.
"Of course I understand," replied the old scientist with a stronger but similar accent, knowing it was not a true question, but a directive. "And if I do this for you, you will not harm my Peter?"
"You are lucky I let you or that mutt live at all," scoffed the tall man. "Your lives are mere mockeries -- pale shadows of my own. It amused me to make you my pawn, which is the only reason I did not kill you both for being such worthless 'heirs' to my legacy."
"I -- I am afraid I do not understand, Herr--"
"Ah-ah-ah," the tall man interrupted, holding up one finger; all traces of a foreign accent vanished as he continued. "Speak only as an American when you are in my presence. If you used half the brains you apparently do have, you should have figured out the value in always keeping hidden your true story, your true origins. Now away with you. I have a meeting with that blowhard Verner in ten minutes, and I must have time to resume character."
The old scientist nodded his head and shuffled off, worry lines creasing his forehead.
Ten minutes later, the tall man was sitting behind his desk as he welcomed his next guest. "Jock, baby!" he said, a wide grin on his face. "How's the soon-to-be-number-one Hollywood mogul today?"
Jock Verner, a squat, rotund man in a loud green blazer grinned behind his Foster Grant's and bluffed, "Couldn't be better!" Shaking the man's hand, he said, "How is our new project shaping up, Rich? Do we have an ETA on the launch date?"
Rich raised one eyebrow and said, "You know the old saying, Jock. Rome wasn't built in a day!" Chuckling, he said, "I kid, I kid. It's coming along swimmingly, Jock. The whole team is in the training room right now, in fact! L.A.'s newest super-hero team is ready to be unleashed any moment now. I'm thinking we start with a press conference -- the big teams like the JLA and others have done that a few times -- and then really show the city how much they need us!"
Jock Verner sighed. "I'm still not sure about the name, though, Rich. I'm still smarting from all that money I sunk into the Conglomerate before it finally bit the big one. Why, the branding alone could have been worth the cost, if it wasn't for that insufferable Gardner screwing things up so badly!"
"Water under the bridge, buddy, water under the bridge," laughed Rich. "I'm telling you, the Conglomerate's days are long gone."
"Hmm. You're probably right about that. But what about that other idea -- the Captains of Industry?" suggested Verner.
"I keep tellin' ya, Jock -- people just don't trust anything that smacks of corporations or big business these days," replied Rich. "In order to really sell the public on this, we'll have to tie the team to an already proven brand."
"I don't know..." Verner replied uncertainly.
"Verner's Vanquishers!" said Rich, waving his hands across the air as if moving the words on a marquee. "It rolls off the tongue!"
"You think so?" said Verner, rubbing his double chin.
"That I do, Jock," Rich said, putting one arm around Jock Verner's shoulders and ushering him toward the door. "And hey, buddy, by the time that press conference is over, the sponsors will be practically knocking down the door just to have a little piece of the pie."
Jock Verner sighed again. "I just wish Vanucci hadn't tarnished the name of Vanquisher already with his shenanigans. I'd had such high hopes for that boy."
"Van Vanucci is old news, Jock," said Rich, opening the door for Verner. "Nobody even remembers what he did or why he did it, let alone what stopped him in his tracks."
"Y'know, that's been puzzling me, too, Rich," Verner said with a frown. "Every time I review the only footage I have of the Vanquisher, I can't for the life of me remember what I saw just seconds later. It's almost like it never happened."
"It's just as well that everyone's forgotten about that glorified limo driver," replied Rich. "He couldn't even live up to his own brand. Verner's Vanquishers, on the other hand, is really going to blow up in this city -- mark my words."
As Jock Verner left the room, the man calling himself Rich Adams considered the name of his new team for a few moments. Verner was already on board; the contract was already signed, but there was some wiggle room regarding the name. The Vanquishers simply didn't have the selling power of other team names such as the Titans. Even Verner wasn't confident in the name; he could hardly object if Rich changed it at the last moment.
With a smile, Rich picked up the phone and had his secretary patch him through to the training room, where he spoke with his new team's leader. "Last-minute name change before the curtain call, buddy. We're going with Plan B. You're not Verner's Vanquishers any longer -- you're Vanguard. Yeah, I know some alien team used that name a few years back, but nobody's seen or heard from 'em since. (*) Anyway, if they ever do return, I'd like to see them try to sue us for trademark infringment."
[(*) Editor's note: See "The Vanguard," New Teen Titans v2 Annual #1 (1985).]
***
The Green Lantern Citadel, Los Angeles:
"An' this is the livin' quarters. Sorry 'bout all those peanut shells on the floor. We was always pickin' up after that little poozer Ch'p, an' all the furry critters he let in. Gimme a minute." The Green Lantern named Kilowog fashioned a high-powered, industrial-sized vacuum with his power ring and set it to automatically clean the floors before continuing with the tour.
"I'm liking what I see so far," replied Jefferson Pierce, alias Black Lightning, as he looked around. "When Stewart told me this place was being mothballed, I practically leaped at the chance to take it over. I always knew, in the back of my mind, that the Outsiders were being wasted in Cincinnati."
"That a planet or somethin'?" asked Kilowog.
"No, it's a medium-sized city in the Midwest."
"Never heard of it," Kilowog said with a shrug.
Jeff laughed. "That's not surprising. I barely knew much about it myself before we moved there from Gotham. It's strange, but we hardly even had any discussion about the move at all. Brion offered us Markovia House, and we just took him up on it without considering any other options. I guess we justified it by saying we were going to be the super-heroes of the Midwest, but that really only worked if we ignored the Flash in Central City, Hawkman and Hawkgirl in Midway City, and even the Conglomerate in Detroit."
"I heard o' those places," said Kilowog.
"We all should've known it wasn't a good fit," continued Jeff. "The only super-villains we ever fought there were transplants from bigger cities, and except for the Monarch and his gang, they only ever came to Cincinnati to challenge us! After the Masters of Disaster totaled the mansion, the government of Markovia couldn't get rid of us fast enough! Of course, it didn't help when the Dr. Helga Jace that we'd known was revealed to be a Martian impostor a couple months back, or that Brion was called home shortly after to begin his official duties as his nation's super-hero after sowing his oats in America. Rumor has it the Global Guardians are trying to recruit him to lead a team of heroes from other small countries in the region -- the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg."
"I even heard o' those places, too," said Kilowog.
"Anyway, Looker was the first to leave, when she realized she didn't want to move from glamorous Gotham City to the third largest city in Ohio. Metamorpho didn't last much longer, since Rex's wife Sapphire liked the big city life as well, though he still dropped by from time to time. We gained Celsius and Negative Woman for a while, mostly because they just needed a home, but Arani left a few months ago to search for a lost relative of hers, and Valentina decided to go with her. And now, with Geo-Force also gone, that leaves the team down to me, Katana, Halo, and Windfall."
Kilowog turned to Black Lightning and said, "Ya twisted my arm, Pierce. I'll join yer team."
Jeff's eyebrows rose involuntarily. "Oh? I didn't know you were even staying here on Earth."
"Yeah, I got a soft spot fer this little hunk o' dirt," Kilowog replied. "Ain't got a home left ta get back to like the others, anyways, so I thought I'd stay here, even if I have ta give up my ring. I'm really hopin' the Guardians don't ask me ta do that, ta tell ya the truth. Anyway, I'm willin' ta spiff up this whole place fer ya, an' get rid o' all the GLC stuff, though I think yer gonna have ta recruit a few more ta make it worth yer while."
Jeff nodded. "Agreed. I'll talk it over with the others, but I'm glad to have you on this little team of Outsiders."
"That mean you'll take the Citadel?" asked Kilowog.
Black Lightning looked around at the spacious former headquarters of the Earthbound Green Lantern Corps. "Yeah, we will. This place would be perfect for us."
"Then put 'er there, poozer," Kilowog said, reaching out his hand with an expression on his alien face that resembled a smile.
Jeff took his hand and shook it, even as a distant explosion caused the ground to shake.
***
As explosions rocked the Los Angeles skyline, disturbing the peace of the hot summer day, people scattered throughout the streets in terror. Although loud, the explosions did little obvious damage despite being set off in several places at once, destroying a side of a building here, a row of cars there. The problem was that nobody really knew where to run; all they knew was that L.A. was under attack by some unknown foe, and that no one direction was truly safe.
The mystery of the attack would not remain one for long, however, as a strangely costumed figure soon made himself known, and the sound of harsh laughter began to overtake the resounding explosions. With the echoes of the explosions fading into the background, the panicked crowds stopped running as if no longer in fear for their lives. In reality, everyone was just waiting to see what was next.
"HA-HA-HA-HA-HA-HA-HAAA! You fools!" shouted a gaudily dressed man in a yellow and purple costume, standing atop a flying platform that hovered over the largest gathering of people. "None of you are safe from the wrath of -- the Annihilator! AH-HA-HA-HA-HAAA!" As if to punctuate his laughter, another round of explosions were set off as the Annhilator raised his hands, and the crowds began to scream and panic once more.
"Too long have I waited to exact my revenge upon the world for all the years I lost!" cried the Annihilator in a manic tone of voice. "You forced me into hiding, but now you will all bow before your new lord and master! AH-HA-HA-HA-HAAA!"
More explosions rocked the buildings above, as debris and glass rained down upon the streets below.
"I hereby declare war--" the Annihilator shouted, "--upon all of humanity!"
But before the screams could begin anew, another loud voice shouted over the noise. "Not so fast, Annihilator!"
"Eh? What is this?" the Annihilator replied incredulously. "Who dares interrupt my magnum opus -- my crowning achievement?"
"We do!" said a crowd of voices as a group of colorfully dressed men and women appeared walking amidst the parting crowd.
"HA-HA-HA-HA-HA!" the Annihilator laughed maniacally. "And just who are you costumed clowns?"
"We are Vanguard," said the apparent leader, a man in red and blue, who wore a visor. "And nobody attacks L.A. under our watch!"
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Post by lawrenceliberty on Jan 3, 2024 21:42:24 GMT
I'm glad this confirms the Titans/ Vanguard story fits our continuity. I was never sure. I'm certain this new Vanguard will have to be more interesting than the original ones. They were not among Wolfman's best creations in my opinion.
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Post by DocQuantum on Jan 6, 2024 20:55:03 GMT
I'm glad this confirms the Titans/ Vanguard story fits our continuity. I was never sure. I'm certain this new Vanguard will have to be more interesting than the original ones. They were not among Wolfman's best creations in my opinion. Agreed. They're just so odd and so very alien (even from each other) and also very powerful, that it lacks the necessary human element for a relatable story. You'd almost need to have a POV character who is human to tag along with them somehow. Hmmm... we know Starman (Will Payton) was in space for a few months (from the Legion of Doom story). Possibly he met the Vanguard sometime during that space voyage? |
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