[Lex Luthor's POV]
"This has to be a joke, a ridiculous one at that." He sat in his luxurious chair as the guards he left as security all stood in front of him with their heads down.
"This really does sound like a dry joke to me. I, Lex Luthor, sole owner of the LexCorp, was robbed." He laughed out.
"Which one of you was the mole who helped them succeed in their little scheme." He asked them but no one answered his question.
"It would be almost impossible for them to do such a neat job if they didn't know the place really well. The only proof they were here, are the bruises on your faces and the things missing." He kept on pointing out the facts but no one was stepping out to admit that they were the mole.
"The cameras were rendered impotent, the security guards can't also be useless." His butler brought him a drink to help quell his temper, he reached for the glass of whisky and gulped it down.
"Whoever they were, was no amateur. They were highly skilled. They even got into my personal safe which uses a three way biometric identifiers." He was served another drink as he slowly stood up from his seat.
"I don't care about the money, gold or expensive jewels they stole." He took a slow walk around the room, emphasizing on each word as he spoke. "I only care about two things in that safe and they were stolen!!!" He yelled as he smashed his glass on the ground, scattering shards all over the place.
"Get out of my sight, you good for nothing!!!" He yelled at them and they all did accordingly.
"I am really sorry about that, sir. But you need to calm down." Mercy said to her boss, trying to help him regain his usual calm demeanor.
"This is me being calm Mercy… This is me being calm. " He emphasized. "The small stash of Kryptonite I had in my safe is all gone. The Khandark diamond we had stolen last year, I split it in two and used one piece as negotiation to make Black Adam join me in my attack against the League last time. The other piece was kept in there, I made it clear that it was the last piece in my possession and was going to be given to him as compensation for killing that scoundrel, Ace."
He took a pause as he turned to look at Mercy. "I guess I just have to try taking hold of his mind and turn him into my personal bodyguard instead." A sly grin crept across his face as he mused at the thought.
"I'm afraid I have bad news, sir." Mercy said as Lex made a full body turn to face her, wondering what news could possibly be more worse than what he was currently dealing with. "Black Adam was killed tonight by Ace the Tyrant." She reported, the grin on Lex's face was immediately wiped off.
"What!!!" He exclaimed, "you didn't feel the need to inform me of this earlier?" He asked in anger.
"I am doing it now." She quickly replied.
"I saw the footage of him being on par with Superman when it came to strength and I knew there was a slight possibility of him winning their fight somehow, so I contacted Black Adam to finish the job." He took slow walks to Mercy as he continued, punctuating each word. "Now you tell me he is dead?"
"Well I guess I just need to speed up the plans then. How is the work going on completing the mother box we had that mercenary steal?" He asked Mercy.
"It's a bit slow sir, but they are making progress and soon it will be ready for activation." She reported.
"Tell them to pick up the pace and get it completed already. The original mother boxes were capable of interdimensional capabilities, hopefully this replica would be good enough.
With the Watchtower within my grasp, I just need this mother box perfected and I will rule not only this world but dominate other planets as one supreme ruler." He followed up his speech with a diabolical laughter, clearly moved past what had happened that night and already forging straight ahead.
…
[Tom Hendricks POV]
The adrenaline from the fight with Black Adam still surges through my veins, and the thrill of getting punched and hurt, not knowing if I'd win, makes me feel alive, more like a human at least. It's a welcome change from the uncertainty of whether I'm transforming into something else, or if I'd grow bored of humanity's petty squabbles.
Back from the epic showdown with sparks flying, my thoughts turn to what's next. I've been taking things easy, cruising through life, and it's taken me this far, but I can't shake the feeling that I'm stuck in neutral.
Sure, I've achieved my initial goals – established an extensive network in the criminal underworld, made a name for myself in a world where only high-ranking criminals partner with me, and become the go-to guy for any risky endeavor that could jeopardize their operations. I've crafted a reputation as the most trusted broker who delivers top-notch services, and I've assembled an incredibly competent team of mercenaries.
My next step hinges on the aftermath of whatever chaos Lex Luthor's twisted mind leaves in its wake. But for now, I have my sights set on the next bustling city in the DC universe: Metropolis.
I contemplate pursuing a degree in technology, establishing a legitimate company, and ascending the social ladder as Tom, the young and prosperous billionaire. All the while, I'll continue to leverage my extensive network and connections to gather information and get things done in the shadows better than Lex does.
It's a good thing I've already enrolled in an online university. My father's words echo in my mind – the importance of a school certificate, especially when dealing with government entanglements. It might be a sentimental gesture, but it's a safety net I can't ignore.
I've discovered an online university on the dark web that could expedite the process, providing me with a legitimate certificate in just a year, albeit with a shortcut that bypasses the years of normal study. It needed to be a one year duration so incase anyone decided to look into me, everything would check out.
It's amazing, the things you could get done for the right bundle of Benjamin's. Who knows? My company could become the next LexCorp or Wayne Enterprises of this generation.
By day, I'll present myself as a successful businessman to the world, while by night, I'll continue to be a member of the criminal underworld. I am yet to figure out why cash made through illegal means always feels so good.
But before my big move to Metropolis, I feel the need for a farewell party with the boys, just like Leo and I did back in Central City with the Hope Diamond. I've been scouring the drak web for valuable artifacts, and one, in particular, has piqued my interest – the Spear of Destiny.
I have no interest in it but it sounded interesting, being the spear that pierced Jesus on the cross and all. Also I hear it's a very powerful and yet valuable item over here.
As I delve into my research, I stumbled upon an article indicating that the Justice League confiscated it years back, leading me to assume it's now housed in the Justice League Watchtower.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa... You're taking an online course, aren't you already a smart-ass?" Leo inquires, peering closely at my laptop screen.
"It's all just a formality. What I really need is that certificate they'll give me once I complete this shit."
Leo nods in understanding. "Oh, I see."
With a sly grin, I assured him, "You can speak freely; Jason isn't home."
"Why don't you let him in on this side of you? I know you aren't big on trust but it wouldn't be that bad to put your trust in someone who is already like family to us." Leo pressed on, giving me a knowing look.
"Family huh." I reflected on my past as a grim memory came into play, in the form of flashbacks. "I've been betrayed by a family member before, someone I saw as a father figure."
Leo offers his condolences, albeit in his unique manner. "Betrayal from family can really mess with your head."
"Yeah... Since then, I've been cautious, keeping my circle as small as a red dot. He's earning that trust slowly but surely he'll get there" I replied. "So, where's my package?" I asked as I rubbed my hands together.
Leo moved closer and placed the drive on my desk. "I've got something else for you, a little souvenir from my trip to Metropolis, a rare gem in the black market."
I can't help but smirk when he revealed achunk of Kryptonite. "Nice. I had a knife made from Kryptonite, but I had to repurpose it into brass knuckles."
Leo raises an eyebrow, slightly bewildered. "With this, you can really go all out I guess."
The Kryptonite he brought me was enough to craft a blade and about seven bullets, an intriguing addition to my arsenal.
"While you're geeking out on that, I'm going to sell the Khandark diamond I kept for myself, along with the others we swiped," Leo smugly informed me as he headed out of my room, a hint in his final words that the operation was successfully camouflaged as a robbery.
==============
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[Batman's POV]
Deep within the cavernous depths of the Batcave, Batman sat in his high-tech chair, poring over a trove of data he had diligently compiled over the past few days. The screens around him illuminated his face with an eerie blue glow as he sifted through the labyrinth of information.
With a deft keystroke, he activated an audio catalog and began to narrate his findings.
DELTA FILE-: C-403-5
SUBJECT-: Ace The Tyrant
The subject in question had proven to be a looming threat, far more perilous than I had initially comprehended. This masked figure had waged a fierce battle against none other than Superman, emerging as a worthy adversary to the Man of Steel himself.
The renowned Black Adam had met his demise at the hands of Ace. Batman's voice grew grimmer as he continued.
If the Justice League ever finds itself entangled in a confrontation with Ace The Tyrant, it is imperative to classify him as a threat. He has unequivocally demonstrated the capability to contend with godlike beings. I will dig deeper into uncovering information regarding his abilities and true identity.
The audio catalog came to a close, and Batman was left to contemplate the gravity of the situation.
While he immersed himself in his brooding thoughts, a message notification from the Architect website lit up his screen. He leaned forward, his expression never betraying his intense focus, and swiftly clicked on the message.
"Got something for you," the message read, the words stark and unambiguous.
"What did you find?" Batman tersely inquired, bypassing any formalities and diving straight into business.
The reply that came only confirmed his earlier suspicions. "You've all been unwitting pawns in Lex Luthor's grand design. The night when heroes were cast as enemies of the state, Lex orchestrated the entire operation. The President's mind was under his sinister influence, and he utilized your group of merry men as stepping stones in his ascension to power."
"So, what exactly is his endgame?" Batman pressed on, his voice laced with a sense of urgency.
"He aims to seize dominion over this world. Lately, he's been driven by an insatiable desire to conquer what he deems an overpopulated world teeming with inferior intellects."
"So, becoming President was merely a step towards his true ambition."
The response was unequivocal. "Correct. He will require an immense technological construct to amplify his mind-control abilities and subjugate the entire globe. No one will retain their will; they will blindly worship the bald figure as a false god."
Batman contemplated the dire situation, his resolve unwavering. "Is there any indication that he already possesses the necessary technology to augment his psychic abilities?"
The reply stung with a hint of foreboding. "No, he currently lacks such technology. However, it is my guess that he may set his sights on the Justice League's Watchtower in space. It offers the perfect platform and possesses the requisite power to execute his nefarious plan."
Batman clenched his jaw, ready to defend their base at any cost. "There's no way he will succeed in such an audacious endeavor."
The Architect, unperturbed, maintained his stance. "Okay, if you say so. But there's something else you should be aware of, given your membership in the League. Lex possesses a Mother Box crafted from remnants of an actual interdimensional Mother Box. His intentions may be far grander than we have dared to envision. It is imperative that you and your allies thwart him as swiftly as possible, or else, it could spell the end of humanity as we know it."
Batman digested the new information. "You did well."
"Your generous payment served as ample motivation for my efforts," the Architect replied. Just as Batman prepared to conclude the conversation, another message arrived, this one bringing a glimmer of hope to his darkened soul.
"As a bonus to your request, I managed to ascertain the location of Speedy."
"Speedy?" Batman inquired, a spark of curiosity in his voice.
"Yes, the Scarlet Speedster, the Red Blur, the League member with the greatest potential, if you ask me – The Flash."
"I assume this information isn't free," Batman remarked, already aware of the unspoken terms.
"Indeed, it comes at a cost. As the saying goes, 'If you're good at something, never do it for free.' In this case, it pertains to my services."
Batman accepted the inevitable. "How much will it cost for you to provide me with his precise location?"
"twenty-five thousand. It's the price that befits the risks I undertook. It is certainly a fair price."
"Very well, I am making the payment as we speak," Batman confirmed, completing the transaction as he had for the Architect's prior service.
"Received. You will receive a file containing details of the information I've shared so far and also his exact location, and it will be up to you to secure the return of your comrade."
Batman accessed the file, decrypted its contents, and reviewed the information it contained. He sent one final message, contemplating the Architect's level of competence.
"Are all your tasks executed with such detail?" Batman inquired.
"Of course, they are. My clients expect nothing less, given the substantial fees they pay. It has been a pleasure doing business with you, and I look forward to tackling more challenging missions in the future."
Batman ended the chat without another word but muttered to himself, "Let's hope there won't be a need for that."
With the file in hand, he rose from his chair, his formidable presence undiminished. Batman reached out to the League members, except for Superman, summoning them to the Justice League Watchtower to discuss the imminent rescue mission for the Flash.
…
[Tom Hendricks POV]
Breaking News
The world once again found itself at the mercy of Ace the Tyrant, a man who showed no compassion for those who dared to stand against him.
The news broadcast unfurled the shocking tale of the climactic showdown between the Man of Steel and Ace the Tyrant, confirming the shocking news of Superman's defeat at the hands of this formidable adversary.
In the aftermath of this startling revelation, the airwaves echoed with the declaration of Black Adam's demise at the hands of the same enigmatic figure.
Tom Hendricks descended the stairs of his lavish home, a casual observer to the chaos unfolding on the television screen. "Look who made the headlines again," he remarked casually, making his way to the refrigerator.
Seated in the living room, Jason and Leo were engrossed in the news broadcast, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Jason, with his characteristic brashness, voiced his incredulity. "Just when I think I've glimpsed his strength, he surprises everyone all over again. How in the world is he even that strong?"
"He just is," Leo responded, his cool and collected demeanor a stark contrast to Jason's exuberance.
Jason couldn't be easily deterred. "Nah, he's like a superhuman on steroids to take down Superman like that."
As the news coverage continued, Tom remained silent, engrossed in his meal. Jason's astonishment was understandable. After all, for years, it had been widely believed that Superman was an indomitable force, virtually invincible.
Yet, right there, on the screen, was footage of Ace the Tyrant brutally pummeling the Man of Steel, his fists a whirlwind of fury. A second clip showed Ace holding Superman's unconscious form high above the ground before callously dropping him to the floor.
"Wow, I never thought I'd see the day when Superman gets handed his own ass," Jason commented, his voice tinged with awe.
Leo, however, seemed to take a different perspective. "Yeah, it's a surprisingly satisfying sight, don't you think?" He glanced over to the kitchen, where Tom continued to dine in silence.
While Jason and Leo exchanged comments about the news of Black Adam's defeat, Tom's thoughts took a different trajectory. He ruminated on the information he had uncovered from Lex Luthor's personal computer – secrets and risks that could imperil the entire world. The mother box in Lex's possession was a significant cause for concern, reconstructed from the remnants of an actual interdimensional Mother Box.
It struck him with a sense of irony; he had been the one to accept the job of stealing the Mother Box and had unwittingly handed it over to an employer, unaware that the very same Lex Luthor had commissioned the task. His conscience hadn't probed the identity of the employer or their intentions at the time. Now, he couldn't afford to be indifferent, for the world's fate hung in the balance.
Tom's mind was abuzz with the possibilities. "Why would he take such a huge risk?" he mumbled to himself, pondering the implications of Lex's audacious ambitions.
He rose from his seat and retreated to his room, tapping his watch as he issued a command to his AI, Gwen. "Gwen, gather everything you can find regarding Darkseid and the last time he caused a fuss on earth."
Gwen diligently complied, summoning a trove of footage, images, news reports, and information on the subject. Tom watched with bated breath as the material unfolded, offering a harrowing glimpse into the past. It unveiled an invasion by alien forces that had killed abducted humans as they left destruction in their wake.
The most chilling footage depicted Darkseid's confrontation with the members of the Justice League. He had dispatched them with ease, as if they were mere children, before a colossal, malevolent figure whose very presence exuded evil.
Tom was confounded by Darkseid's powers, which defied conventional understanding. Telekinesis, a searing heat vision surpassing even Superman's with acute accuracy, brute strength, and speed – these were only a few of the abilities at Darkseid's disposal.
It was becoming evident that Lex's grand scheme might involve summoning an actual demon from the depths of Hades Valley in the underworld, with the misguided belief that he could control such a malevolent force if push comes to shove.
It was a shame what happened to Black Adam, if not for his arrogance, Tom was looking forward to striking a deal with him sometime. But then again, he found out magic was his kryptonite and it was lethal to him. If he couldn't get him as an ally, then he needed to die.
Yet, as he contemplated the threat Darkseid posed, Tom wondered if magic would even affect this formidable adversary. Perhaps Raven, Constantine, and the golden helmet-wearer could hold the key to countering Darkseid's insidious power. Although he doubted they would be of much help because raw violence seemed to be more effective against him.
==========
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