Chereads / martial dead / Chapter 136 - 5-10

Chapter 136 - 5-10

Chapter 5. Finaally... I'm Awake

(My Subconscious)

 

Doctor Strange felt an overwhelming sense of disconnection from reality as he got sucked through the Convergence rift.

 

At first, he was suspended in a dark void, a feeling of mystical energy leaving his body.

 

Then in an instant, before he could react, he was surrounded by cascading streams of binary code, each line of 1s and 0s forming intricate symbols that resembled cryptic runes. 

 

It was as though he had been thrust into an alien language he could not decipher. Doctor Strange's brow furrowed with confusion as he struggled to make sense of the bewildering patterns and digital data that surrounded him.

 

Gigantic pixels whirled around him, constructing pixelated versions of faces he recognized. 

 

Spider-Man swung by on jagged, pixelated web strands, and the Hulk transformed into a blocky, disjointed figure. 

 

Doctor Strange was at a loss, unable to understand what crude dimension he was in, the disconcerting sensation of being out of place and out of time overwhelming him. 

 

His transition to the next dimension was abrupt and disorienting. It felt as though reality itself had been torn apart, and he was thrust into a violent whirlwind of shifting memories and sensations.

 

In an instant, the binary code and pixelated characters gave way to a violent rupture, and Doctor Strange felt like he was plummeting through a chaotic vortex. 

 

The world around him twisted and contorted, and he was consumed by a sensation akin to free-fall, his cloak unable to maintain his levitation.

 

Suddenly, he landed with a jolt in a gritty, dystopian cityscape. Neon signs flickered ominously, casting eerie shadows on the rain-soaked streets. The air was thick with an unsettling blend of tension and foreboding.

 

A series of high-speed, adrenaline-fueled race cars frenzied past him, missing him by mere inches, but disorienting him. He realized that he was falling through dimensions, now standing in the middle of a highway.

 

The cityscape around him blurred into streaks of neon lights and towering skyscrapers. His heart raced as he hastened to do magic and get himself out of this hell-hole, but he was interrupted by another rupture in reality. 

 

The world around him fragmented into a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes, and Doctor Strange was once again in free-fall, hurtling through the chaotic dimensions.

 

Each transition brought him to a new and bewildering realm. He soared through abstract landscapes reminiscent of surrealist paintings, where gravity had no meaning, and geometry bent to the whims of the surreal.

 

Then, he found himself in a realm of fantastical creatures and mythical landscapes, like pages torn from the pages of ancient legends. Here, he encountered creatures of lore and mythical beings who regarded him with curiosity and wonder.

 

In another dimension, he was submerged in a sea of vibrant colors and shifting patterns, like a living work of abstract art. The sheer visual overload left him feeling both mesmerized and disoriented.

 

Time and space seemed to lose their meaning as he continued to plummet through one dimension after another. Each transition was a chaotic whirlwind, and Doctor Strange could hardly comprehend the bewildering diversity of realms he encountered.

 

The common thread in this surreal odyssey was his persistent sense of disconnection from reality. He had become an unwitting traveler through the limitless landscapes of imagination, navigating realms that defied the laws of physics and reason.

 

All the while, his attempts at creating portals to plunge him back to the reality he knew were constantly, and abruptly interrupted, as the realities warped.

 

As he continued his descent through these bewildering dimensions, Doctor Strange couldn't help but wonder if there was a way to regain control and find his way back to New York.

 

(New York)

 

As I slowly opened my eyes to wake up, a sharp, blinding light glare assaulted my senses, making me squint and shield my eyes.

 

I retreated deeper under the covers in search of a momentary refuge from its unwelcome intrusion. 

 

Wait... Something dawned on me and I jerked upright in bed, casting the covers aside.

 

I looked around, noticing the familiar environment surrounding me.

 

The walls were adorned with framed comic book covers and posters. The collection of action figures standing proudly on the shelves. The computer desk with multiple screens sitting in one corner, surrounded by a tangle of cables. 

 

I was in my bedroom.

 

"That must have been the craziest dream I have ever had." I mumbled to myself, confusion clouding my thoughts.

 

"But, how did I get here?" I wondered to myself. "Did I sleepwalk from the auditorium or something?"

 

Unable to come up with a reasonable answer, I sat there contemplating about the bizarre short-lived dream I had had.

 

"Being in DC as Doctor Strange was thrilling." I said to myself as I recalled how powerful I had felt as the mystical energies surged through me.

 

"How did it end though?" I wondered, trying to piece together the fading memories of the dream.

 

"Green Lantern...Wonder Woman...Gotham... Blinding light..." Aaargh. I gave up trying to recollect my memories.

 

Maybe I would remember when I least expected, and then it would be worth it.

 

With one foot clumsily draped over the edge of the bed, I embarked on my morning odyssey. 

 

It was Monday morning at 0700, giving me just enough time to prepare for work. I had apparently slept through the whole weekend.

 

What the hell had happened?

 

The bathroom beckoned, and my reflection greeted me with the enthusiasm of a potato. 

 

Hair, thoroughly committed to its state of rebellion, stood at every possible angle, as if trying to communicate in a secret bedhead code.

 

The sink played host to a symphony of toothbrushes, each one seemingly vying for my attention. I selected the toothpaste like a contestant on a game show, hoping it would have the miraculous power to transform my day from drab to fab.

 

Despite my best efforts to appear remotely functional, I remained convinced that I was, in fact, a sentient zombie who had forgotten to register for the apocalypse. This illusion persisted as I moved on to the kitchen.

 

The coffee maker, my one true ally in this early morning battle, stood sentinel on the countertop. 

 

With the precision of a seasoned barista, I measured out the coffee grounds, performed the ritualistic dance of water pouring, and hit the brew button. 

 

A faint, heavenly aroma began to fill the air, promising to elevate me from the depths of sleep-deprived despair.

 

As I waited for my elixir of life to materialize, my attention was diverted by the relentless ping of my email notifications. 

 

Work awaited, like an unwelcome guest who had overstayed their welcome. I sighed, preparing to embark on another day of IT wizardry.

 

It was at this precise moment, as I stared blankly at the glowing screen of my laptop, that his presence graced my kitchen. He materialized quietly before me, with a desperate, but amused twinkle in his eye.

 

"Finally. Something that makes sense." He spoke to himself as he looked around my apartment. 

 

Meanwhile, I had shifted my blank stare towards him, my thoughts racing wild with suspicion.

 

Was I still dreaming?

 

I raised my right hand and landed a blow on my right cheek, half-expecting to wake up from another dream within a dream.

 

He still soared there, looking at me with further amusement.

 

His facial features, his attire and his display of the power of levitation. I had been him in my dream and felt his power. 

 

So the only reasonable explanation here was that I was hallucinating or maybe going mad.

 

Countless times had mama warned me of my vivid imagination telling me to tune it down. And now here I was, hallucinating fictional characters in my wake.

 

"If I assume this, maybe my mind will go back to normal." I thought to myself amid a raging desire to panic.

 

For a man who had just witnessed the arrival of a renowned superhero in his kitchen, I exhibited all the observational skills of a distracted squirrel. 

 

Doctor Strange, with his flowing crimson cape and otherworldly demeanor, remained as conspicuous as a neon sign in a dark alley. Yet, I continued to type away at my keyboard, completely oblivious.

 

"Where am I?" He asked, more a sigh.

 

I blinked and swallowed hard as my muscles tensed.

 

The sizzling and bubbling of the coffee maker served as a welcome distraction, breaking the tension in my body. 

 

Maybe a sip of the steaming coffee would knock me back to my senses.

 

"But wouldn't that just make my hallucinations more profound?" I paused as I lifted the cup I had poured the coffee to, to my mouth.

 

"It's better than nothing." I took a sip of the warm coffee.

 

"And who are you?" He asked another question.

 

I spat out all the coffee that had filled my mouth, splashing a mixture of coffee and saliva all over my laptop.

 

I couldn't ignore this any further.

 

"Ok. You're a construct from my mind. A figment of my imagination and I need you to leave like right now." I shouted to Doctor Strange, squinting my eyes and blocking my ears with my fingers.

 

I opened my eyes, and to my disappointment, he was still there, saying something.

 

"...stic Arts and the Sorcerer Supreme." Was what I heard as I unblocked my ears. "I have been swirling between dimensions for sometime now and this is the first time I've been a place that makes sense since I fell into the rift."

 

"What?" I gasped my confusion.

 

"Nothing could be more real than that experience." He continued. "I am real, and I need to know where I am."

 

---

A/N:

This is where the MC begins to realize that he hasn't been dreaming all along.

 

Doctor Strange has been falling through the memories in my subconscious. I get to interact with him, and he reveals some strange things.

 

Thank you.

Chapter 6. Prime Sorcerer

(My Subconscious 2)

 

The atmosphere in my small kitchen had turned into that of an enraptured audience in a theater, as I explained to the Sorcerer Supreme my short adventure as the _Sorcerer Supreme_, in DC. 

 

Doctor Strange listened intently, his eyes gleaming with a mix of fascination and amusement as I recounted the events of my dreamlike experience, vaguely. 

 

It felt as though I was sharing a tale from a parallel universe, and he was the eager spectator, hanging on to every word, ready to applaud the unexpected twists and turns of my narrative.

 

He had proved that he was indeed not a figment of my imagination by picking and flipping my damaged laptop, and slapping the senses out of me.

 

I finished recounting the events and paused to look at him. My story incomplete, of course, as I only had a vague recall of being surrounded by immense light.

 

My memories hadn't kicked in yet.

 

"Ah. I see." Doctor Strange said, his face burrowing, deep in thought.

 

"So, how is it you're real and standing before me?" I asked him.

 

That was the exact question running through his mind. But a realization was building up in his mind. One that he dreaded was true.

 

"I want you to do a simple exercise for me." He started. "Close your eyes and visualize a place of your choosing. It could be a serene forest, a bustling cityscape, or even a swimming pool. Focus on the details, the sounds, the smells, and immerse yourself in this visualization."

 

I followed his instructions, closing my eyes and letting my mind wander, the idea of a swimming pool lingering in my mind. I envisioned a tranquil mountain lake surrounded by lush greenery, with a gentle breeze rustling through the trees.

 

"Good," Doctor Strange continued. "Now, while you're in this mental space, open your eyes slowly."

 

I did as he instructed, and to my astonishment, the small kitchen had transformed into the very scene I had visualized. The lake, the trees, and the breeze were all there, as real as any dream.

 

"You see," Doctor Strange explained, "the boundaries between realities are often more fluid than we realize. You must have a strong connection to the mystical, strong enough to pull me into your subconscious and possess my body in the brink of the collision of multiverses."

 

The future he could never see had finally happened, and Doctor Strange knew that the time had come.

 

"What?" I asked absent-mindedly as I stared around at the scenery that had just emerged. What had happened to my kitchen? Was my mind playing tricks on me?

 

"You mean I can hallucinate real things." I said.

 

"No. You are a Prime Sorcerer at the verge of discovering magic, if you haven't yet." Doctor Strange corrected, bringing in a concept I had never heard of. 

 

His memory flashed and the pieces connected. The Scrolls of the Presence, Loki, the Convergence, falling through the dimensions, the subconscious... It all made sense.

 

"What does that mean?" I asked, now paying attention. "I've never heard of Prime Sorcerer before."

 

"You managed to pull me into your subconscious, even without trying to when two multiverses were in the brink of chaotic convergence. According to the records of the Genesis Manuscripts, the Prime Sorcerer is a being with the innate ability to manipulate and bridge the boundaries between realities. This ability is activated during the most turbulent times," Doctor Strange explained.

 

"The Prime Sorcerer can only use the body, will and magic of the highest sorcerer in a multiverse, and command a Crossover."

 

My mind was racing as I tried to grasp the significance of what he was saying. I had stumbled into the world of comics, and apparently, I was a key player.

 

"But I have read the comics and never heard of such a thing." I said to Strange.

 

"What?" Doctor Strange asked. "Is that a sorcery book?"

 

Of course he didn't know what comics were. If this was real, then something more was going on. Anticipation built within me as I marvelled at the thought in my mind.

 

"So you mean to tell me what I experienced back in Gotham was real?" I asked.

 

"If you mean possessing my body, then yes." Doctor Strange said, his expression calm, radiating with knowledge.

 

"But the idea of the Prime Sorcerer and the Crossover has only existed as a myth in the Genesis Manuscripts. I never thought I would live to see the day the first Prime Sorcerer would emerge. And you chose me. My time has come, it seems." He continued.

 

"I don't understand what you're saying." I said, confused but excited.

 

I was actually going to exist in the comics! And I could use magic too. And maybe even posses more power than Doctor Strange. How would that be like?

 

"Destiny often works in mysterious ways," Doctor Strange replied with a knowing smile. "You have the ability to help maintain the balance of the Crossover. Your abilities are a gift, and with proper training, you will become a formidable force for good."

 

"You now possess the body, power and knowledge of Doctor Strange; Master of the Mystic Arts, Guardian of the Sanctum Sanctorum and the Sorcerer Supreme. But you could be more. Your power is more, as described by the manuscripts." He continued, sounding ominous, like a wizard impacting his last wisdom to his apprentice.

 

"Why do you sound so ominous? Don't go disappearing on me leaving some cryptic message behind." I said, recalling the many countless times I had read or seen such an act.

 

"What do you mean?" Doctor Strange, genuinely confused and amused. "You chose me as your host and as such, I'll be your eternal guide in your journey to growing as the Prime Sorcerer."

 

"While you have my body and formidable powers, you might still need some guidance in the mystic arts to unlock your full potential." Doctor Strange continued.

 

The air around us was calm and tranquil, as if listening keenly to the revelations. The environment that still impressed still and never changing. 

 

Finally, my dreams had come true, and, my literal dreams would also come to life too. Deep down, I knew that adventure was brewing. 

 

"How do I get out of my subconscious?" I asked him, curious to know what had become of me back in DC.

 

"Control it by surrendering control." Doctor Strange quoted.

 

"Stealing lines from the Ancient One so soon?" I asked, amused.

 

"How did you-?" He meant to ask the question, but he cut himself short. 

 

There was something about the kid before him that exuded confidence and a peculiar sense of excitement, and, possession of untold knowledge.

 

"Comics... But that was the movie." I replied anyway.

 

I closed my eyes and relaxed my thoughts, focusing into nothing, something I had learnt in my many years of meditation.

 

Slowly, the environment around me faded away, and I gradually stirred back to the real world, leaving my subconscious behind. 

 

I could hear indistinct voices talking from a distance, but my conscious wasn't fully awake yet.

 

(Watch Tower)

 

The Watch Tower, a technological marvel orbiting Earth, hums with activity. Inside the medical bay, cutting-edge equipment stands ready for use.

 

The members of the League who had been in Gotham enter the room. They carry the unconscious sorcerer, his cloak surrounding him as of protecting his mysteries.

 

They gently place him on the examination table. His cape of levitation rests nearby, and his mystical artifacts surround him.

 

Superman, weakened by the recent magical explosion that rocked Gotham City, stands nearby, overseeing the situation. He had managed to subdue Doctor Strange, but the ordeal had taken a toll on him, being vulnerable to magic.

 

Superman: (wearily) Keep an eye on him. We can't underestimate his magical abilities or his intentions in Gotham.

 

Wonder Woman and Green Lantern, also recovering from the magical onslaught, watch over Doctor Strange as Cyborg interfaces with the medical bay's systems.

 

Cyborg: (analyzing) His vital signs are stable, but the magical energy he emitted was unprecedented. I've never seen anything like it.

 

The Flash approaches Superman with a furrowed brow.

 

The Flash: (concerned) Supes, we've got to figure out who this guy is and why he attacked Gotham out of nowhere.

 

Superman: (thoughtful) I agree, Barry. Gotham needs answers, and so do we.

 

Superman: (turns to Green Lantern) Thanks for saving me.

 

Hal: You first. I don't know how you managed to stop the magical blast.

 

Superman thinks to himself as his mind flashes back to when he was soaring in the sky with the mysterious stranger. He didn't do anything, but somehow the magical explosion was subdued by his presence.

 

As the heroes maintain their vigil over sorcerer, the Watch Tower's security alarms blare once more, indicating a new threat.

 

Security System: (urgent) Intruder alert! Unknown assailants are attempting to infiltrate the Watch Tower!

 

Wonder Woman: (determined) We can't let our guard down. Barry, Hal, secure the area. Victor, keep monitoring the sorcerer. Clark, I'll take care of this.

 

The heroes divide their efforts, with some preparing to confront the threat, while others remain in the medical bay with the sorcerer.

 

---

A/N:

A Prime Sorcerer is the Master of the Crossover, protecting it's integrity. A Prime Sorcerer has to choose a candidate sorcerer, who is the Supreme Sorcerer of their respective universe.

 

Razake chose (kinda) Doctor Strange. But Doctor Strange is no longer a Supreme Sorcerer. His body is in DC and not Marvel. DCU already has its Supreme Sorcerer.

 

But Razake is destined to become the Prime Sorcerer... Which means he has to become the Supreme Sorcerer first.

 

You know what's to come. 

 

I hope this finds everyone well.

 

Thank you.

Chapter 7. The Riddler's Obsession

(The Batcave)

 

The Batcave lay beneath Wayne Manor, a secret world of shadows and technology, a place where the legend of Batman was born anew with each passing night. 

 

At its heart, the towering Batcomputer hummed with a blue glow, its countless monitors flickering with information from every corner of Gotham. 

 

The dim light cast long, angular shadows across the vast cave, which seemed to stretch on forever.

 

Batman walked in, his bones groaning with exhaustion from the relentless night's work. His cape hung heavy with fatigue as he strode to the Batcomputer.

 

Gotham City had recently fallen victim to mysterious attacks that had sent shockwaves through the metropolis. 

 

The reality-warping and the magical explosion from the mysterious figure in the sky had plunged Gotham into the brink of chaos.

 

It's protector had had his hands full as he poured his efforts into bursting a crime orchestrated by an unknown nemesis and maintaining some order in the spiraling city as criminals broke free from the grasps of authority.

 

He had used the powers of the Justice League, whose intervention had helped stop the exploding sorcerer in the sky. 

 

Maybe he was wrong for calling them in for a regular crime in Gotham that he could have handled all by himself, pretty easily. Their presence only meant that phenomenal threats were at bay.

 

With the mysterious sorcerer held in the confines of the Justice League in the Watch Tower, Batman had some work to do to restore Gotham's fragile balance. 

 

Despite his reservations about involving the Justice League in what seemed like a routine Gotham crime, he couldn't deny the sheer magnitude of the recent events. 

 

Help of his super-powered allies had been necessary, a lingering feeling that had grasped him as Gordon briefed him. Intuition.

 

He accessed the Batcomputer's data, meticulously reviewing the current status of Gotham. 

 

Criminals had indeed taken advantage of the chaos, exploiting the temporary absence of law and order. 

 

"Temporary set back." He thought to himself, as he fetched and examined the small box he had put in his belt.

 

It was unassuming, its surface smooth and cold to the touch. It was about 4 inches in length, 2 inches in width, and 1 inch in thickness. 

 

The edges were sharp and precisely crafted, reflecting the attention to detail that went into it's creation. Despite its unassuming appearance, his Intel suggested that this box could do a lot of harm.

 

"How could this small box possibly shut down Gotham's power?" He wondered to himself.

 

Batman's gloved fingers traced the contours of the unassuming box with a meticulous touch. Its dimensions and texture suggested a carefully crafted piece of technology, and his detective instincts were instantly engaged.

 

He placed the box on a nearby examination table equipped with various tools and scanning devices. 

 

He connected the box to the Batcomputer via a secure interface cable, through a port he had noticed on the side of the box. 

 

The Batcomputer's monitors displayed intricate scans of the box's internal mechanisms and exterior composition.

 

The Batcomputer's advanced software began analyzing the contents of the box, looking for any signs of a virus or malicious code that could potentially disrupt Gotham's power grid.

 

If the box had a virus that could somehow shut down Gotham's power, the Batcomputer would instantly detect it and shut down, perfectly preventing a crisis.

 

Lines of code scrolled across the Batcomputer's monitors as it dissected the box's programming. 

 

Batman's focused gaze studied the data, searching for any anomalies or hidden patterns that might indicate a threat. His years of experience and expertise in cyber-security made him well-equipped to handle such situations.

 

As the scan progressed, Batman's suspicions grew. The complexity of the code and the encryption used hinted at the work of a highly skilled adversary.

 

He couldn't help but feel that there was more to this than met the eye.

 

Amidst the scrolling lines of code on the Batcomputer's monitors, Batman's keen eye began to decipher a hidden message within the programming. 

 

The code, which at first appeared to be a complex web of encryption, began to reveal its message.

 

The lines of code formed a cryptic message that teased Batman's intellect:

 

_"Within the shadows of ones and zeros I dwell. Stuck in what pierces the Gotham sky. Gotham's power, a puzzle to unwind. Hurry, before I'm lost, out of sight._"

 

As Batman pieced together the cryptic message hidden within the code, a realization began to dawn upon him. 

 

His typically stoic expression remained unchanged, but there was a subtle narrowing of his eyes and a tightening of his jaw. 

 

The pieces were falling into place, and he knew that the complexity of the challenge ahead had just escalated significantly.

 

"It's the Riddler," he muttered to himself, his voice steady and focused. The message, the intricate code—it all pointed to one man: Edward Nygma, the criminal mastermind who reveled in challenging the Dark Knight's intellect.

 

The Riddler's escape from Arkham Asylum had been all over the news a month ago. A dangerous development for Gotham, keeping Batman on edge, as he wondered what his next move was.

 

Batman's mind raced, analyzing the situation. The Riddler had been quiet for a significant period, and his sudden return with a threat of this magnitude raised numerous questions. 

 

What was his grand scheme of things and why did he intend to shut down Gotham's power?

 

His analytical mind was at work, dissecting the meaning behind the Riddler's cryptic message. The words echoed in his thoughts, each line like a riddle itself.

 

"Within the shadows of ones and zeros I dwell."

 

The reference to "ones and zeros" hinted at technology.

 

"Stuck in what pierces the Gotham night."

 

The phrase "pierces the Gotham night" suggested something disruptive, perhaps a weapon?

 

"Gotham's power, a puzzle to unwind."

 

This line struck a chord with Batman. It implied that the Riddler had concocted a scheme to unravel the very infrastructure of Gotham's power supply. 

 

The question that gnawed at Batman was why? 

 

"Hurry before I'm lost, out of sight."

 

The urgency of the message was not lost on Batman. Time was of the essence. 

 

The Riddler was challenging him to solve this puzzle quickly, to prevent the catastrophic outcome he had planned.

 

Batman's thoughts raced as he considered the motives of his adversary. The Riddler had an obsession for intellectual challenges, and every crime he committed was a carefully constructed puzzle meant to prove his superiority.

 

The lines of text on his Batcomputer began to shift and transform. The lines of code gradually rearranged, forming the twisted, enigmatic silhouette of a giant question mark.

 

What had once been a complex web of encryption now started to took on a familiar shape—the iconic question mark that symbolized none other than the Riddler himself.

 

A symbol that Batman knew all too well.

 

The transformation of the code into the Riddler's symbol showed the criminal mastermind's audacity and flair for theatrics. 

 

It was as if he were taunting Batman, teasing him to solve the riddle that Batman had deciphered.

 

Batman swiftly unplugged the box from the Batcomputer. No need to keep it connected anymore.

 

Carefully cradling the unassuming box in his gloved hands, Batman contemplated his next move. 

 

He needed to find out the whereabouts of the Riddler, and unravel the full scope of his plan, putting an end to this threat. 

 

But first, he had another matter to address.

 

Batman knew that he needed to have a conversation with Commissioner Gordon about the source of the intelligence that had led him to this box. 

 

Meanwhile, on the Batcomputer's array of monitors, the grim situation in Gotham City continued to unfold. Live surveillance feeds displayed scenes of chaos and turmoil throughout the city.

 

The authorities of Gotham were making valiant efforts to regain control, but it was an uphill battle. 

 

Rioters and criminals had taken advantage of the temporary power vacuum caused by the explosion that had sent the city into turmoil.

 

Protestants carrying boards that hinted on the end of the world nearing spread havoc in the streets. Gotham was descended into anarchy.

 

The Batcomputer's screens showed footage of the Gotham City Police Department mobilizing their forces, trying to contain the rioters and restore order. 

 

Bat-Signals illuminated the night sky as they called for reinforcements and support from the few remaining law enforcers still loyal to their duty.

 

Firefighters battled blazes that had erupted in various parts of the city, undoubtedly the result of the chaos that had ensued after the power disruption. 

 

Emergency medical teams worked tirelessly to tend to the injured and overwhelmed hospitals.

 

Gotham city was in chaos.

 

(The Watchtower)

 

Meanwhile in the medical bay, the sorcerer lay half-conscious on the table as curious expressions formed across his face.

 

Beside him was Superman and Cyborg, who was still examining him.

 

The rest of the Justice League members that were in the Watch Tower had gone to confront the threat that loomed out of their head quarters, putting their strategies into play.

 

"Yes." Superman answered a distress call from the Green Lantern, through his communicator.

 

"I see." He replied.

 

---

AN:

In his training years, Batman refuses to learn the mystic arts, noting that he could be a master of the craft if he focused on the craft, but he wouldn't learn it. Instead, he would focus on being a detective.

 

This is a story about the mystic arts, and there are possibilities. 

 

No one knows what's to come. (Maybe Dr. Fate)

 

What do you think?

Chapter 8. A True God of Mischief

(Intro)

 

As the situation in Gotham escalated, the Flash, having failed to locate Loki, sent a message to allies of the Justice League, hoping that he would be located in other cities. 

 

Among them, the Teen Titans.

 

(Titan Tower - Living Room - Night)

 

The Teen Titans are gathered in their living room, a holographic map of Jump City displayed on the big screen. One of their members notably absent.

 

Robin, the leader, paces back and forth.

 

Robin: (grim) Alright, Titans, listen up. The Justice League has informed us about a mysterious character spotted in Gotham, who mysteriously disappeared. They've asked for our help to see if we can locate him in Jump City.

 

Starfire, with her fiery red hair, raises her hand.

 

Starfire: (excited) Oh, I am having the excitements! Who is this mysterious character, Robin?

 

Robin's expression becomes serious as he continues. 

 

Robin: (intense) The Flash has said that he introduced himself as "Loki, the god of Mischief", and that he might possess untold powers. The situation in Gotham is escalating and we must try to find him.

 

Beast Boy, in his green form, transforms into a bird and flies around the room.

 

Beast Boy: (flapping wings) I'll keep an eye out from the skies, yo!

 

Raven, the sorceress, floats above the map, her eyes glowing as she focuses on the image.

 

Raven: (intense) Let's find him.

 

Robin nods and turns to the group.

 

Robin: (determined) Titans, let's split up. Beast Boy and Starfire, cover the east side. Raven, take the west. I will search downtown. Remember, we're looking for anyone unusual. Stay in communication, and if you spot the mysterious character, don't engage. Just report back.

 

The team nods in agreement and disperses, each heading to their designated areas of the city.

 

Cyborg, a fellow member of the Teen Titans, had been on a special assignment at the Watch Tower.

 

(Jump City - East Side)

 

Beast Boy and Starfire soar through the night sky, scanning the rooftops and alleys for any signs of the mysterious character.

 

Beast Boy: (squinting) I don't see anything yet, Star.

 

Starfire's eyes glow as she uses her energy vision.

 

Starfire: (focused) Keep looking, Beast Boy. We must find them.

 

(Jump City - Downtown)

 

Robin walks through the dimly lit streets of downtown Jump City. The air is thick with tension.

 

Everything looks normal. Nothing suspicious.

 

Still, Robin tightens his grip on his staff.

 

(Jump City - West Side)

 

Raven: (whispering to herself) I can feel a strange magic presence.

 

Raven's usually calm demeanor takes on a heightened intensity as she notices a strange fella, definitely out of place. Her eyes fixate on them, and she hovers closer, unnoticed.

 

Raven: (whispering to herself) This is it.

 

The strange figure, stands at the heart of the West Side Park, surrounded by an aura of mischievous green energy.

 

Raven: (to Robin) Robin, I've located our target on the west side. It's definitely Loki. I can feel strange magic radiating from him.

 

Robin's voice crackles over the communicator.

 

Robin: (through the communicator) Good work, Raven. Stay alert an don't engage. We're on our way. Titans, converge on Raven's location.

 

Beast Boy and Starfire, who had been scanning the east side, swiftly change course, racing towards the west side.

 

Beast Boy: (excited) On our way, Robin!

 

Starfire's eyes flare as she speeds through the night sky.

 

Starfire: (determined) We will catch this Loki!

 

The Teen Titans move quickly, drawn together by the urgency of the situation.

 

(A rare glimpse into Loki's thoughts)

 

Loki looked around amused by the environment and bewildered by the energy flowing within him. He didn't have to think twice to know that he was in a universe completely different to his.

 

That is, after he got sucked into his own menace, a precedented failure that even he knew wouldn't have helped him accomplish his goals.

 

But one thing was certain, a new universe meant a second chance to succeed at his failed venture. Unexplored mysteries waiting for him to unravel.

 

His mind brightened up and upped his mood as he thought about the Scrolls of the Presence. It then dulled a bit as he recalled sighting the Sorcerer Supreme when he first arrived.

 

In this new universe, he knew that they would also be a group much like the Guards and the Avengers that would constantly stand in his way.

 

"Don't make the same mistake twice." He advised himself.

 

He had to do something to remain inconspicuous until he achieved his goal.

 

(Teen Titans vs Loki.)

 

The Teen Titans closed in on Loki's location in Jump City's West Side Park, their determination to apprehend the mischievous god unwavering. 

 

As they converged on Raven's pinpointed location, the tension in the air grew palpable, the very atmosphere charged with a foreboding.

 

Raven remained suspended above the ground, her eyes locked onto the figure surrounded by the ominous green aura. She knew that she had to wait for the rest of the team.

 

Beast Boy and Starfire landed gracefully beside Raven, both ready for action. Robin sprinted through the dimly lit park, his staff at the ready. The Titans formed a tight-knit circle around Loki, their eyes locked onto him.

 

Loki, with a bemused smile, faced them confidently. Countless times had he been in such a situation, everybody trying to fight him. He didn't even bother with the details.

 

His emerald eyes sparkled with the promise of chaos. As he studied each Titan, he couldn't help but admire the potential within them. They were powerful, a fact that excited him.

 

Robin took a step forward, his voice filled with authority. "You're coming with us. Surrender peacefully, and we won't have to resort to force."

 

"That's a bit rude and straightforward." Loki's grin widened, and he made a theatrical bow. "I am Loki, the god of Mischief. Who should you be?"

 

Robin, maintaining his composure, responded to Loki's introduction. "I'm Robin, and we are the Teen Titans. We're here under the instructions of the Justice League to locate you, claiming that you might be a potential threat."

 

"That's a bit presumptions, don't you think?" Loki said. "This Justice League, what are they?"

 

Robin replied, his tone still firm but willing to provide some information. "The Justice League is a group of superheroes who work to protect the world from threats, just like we do. They asked for our help in finding you after your appearance in Gotham raised concerns. We don't want trouble, but we need to know what your intentions are."

 

"Ah, the protectors of Earth. How delightful. But I'm afraid I can't surrender just yet. You see, I have plans for this world, and they don't involve going quietly." Loki said, signalling his resistance.

 

With a flick of his wrist, Loki summoned illusions of their deepest desires and fears, weaving a complex web of emotions. 

 

Starfire was overwhelmed by visions of her long-lost home, Tamaran, while Beast Boy saw his family alive and well. 

 

Raven confronted her inner demons, and Robin was faced with an illusion of his mentor, Batman, in peril.

 

Their emotions clouded their judgment, and their stances wavered. They were momentarily trapped within their own desires and fears, their minds unable to distinguish reality from illusion. 

 

Loki's magic had taken hold, and their wills were slipping away.

 

Beast Boy, tears in his eyes, reached out toward the illusion of his family. "Mom? Dad? Is that really you?"

 

Starfire, her voice quivering, flew toward the vision of Tamaran. "My home! I must go back!"

 

Raven struggled against her inner turmoil, her dark energy swirling around her. "No, this can't be real."

 

Robin, torn between his duty and the illusion of Batman's distress, hesitated. "I have to save him."

 

Loki's grin grew wicked as he watched them succumb to his magic. "Oh, how easy it is to manipulate the desires of mortals."

 

But even in the midst of their internal battles, a glimmer of their true selves remained. Raven, with her immense psychic powers, managed to break free from the illusion. 

 

She reached out with her will power, forming a barrier around her teammates to shield them from Loki's influence.

 

"Snap out of it!" Raven's voice echoed in their minds as she tried to rouse them from their illusions.

 

Beast Boy shook his head, his eyes clearing. "Raven's right, y'all! This ain't real!"

 

Starfire blinked away her tears, her fiery determination rekindled. "We must fight this deception!"

 

Robin gritted his teeth and broke free from the illusion's grasp. "Raven, keep that barrier up! We can't let him control us!"

 

Loki's grin faltered as he realized his magic was losing its grip. "Impressive, Titans. But can you withstand this?"

 

With a wave of his hand, Loki summoned a whirlwind of chaotic energy, sending it hurtling toward the Titans. The raw power of his magic threatened to shatter Raven's barrier.

 

The Titans stood their ground, their determination unwavering. Together, they summoned their unique abilities. 

 

Starfire unleashed a powerful starbolt, Beast Boy transformed into a colossal gorilla, and Robin wielded his staff with precision. 

 

Raven channeled her dark energy into a counterforce, creating a protective bubble within the barrier.

 

The clash of forces created a spectacular display of lights and energy, illuminating the night sky. The Titans pushed back against Loki's onslaught, inching closer to the god of mischief.

 

Loki's expression shifted from arrogance to frustration as he struggled to maintain control of the battle. He couldn't corrupt these heroes as easily as he had thought. That was good.

 

Robin shouted to his team, "We need to break through his defenses! Starfire, give us cover fire!"

 

Starfire's starbolts intensified, creating a brilliant barrage of energy that forced Loki to divert his attention. 

 

The distraction allowed Beast Boy to close the gap, his gorilla form delivering a powerful punch that sent Loki sprawling.

 

Raven seized the opportunity, using her dark energy to create ethereal chains that bound Loki, limiting his movements. 

 

With a united effort, the Titans pressed their advantage. Robin, fueled by his unwavering determination, landed a series of precise strikes with his staff, while Beast Boy and Starfire continued their relentless assault.

 

Loki, amused, unleashed a final surge of magic. A blast of green energy erupted from his shackles, creating a blinding explosion that sent shockwaves through the park. 

 

The Titans were thrown back, their forms flickering as they struggled to maintain their composure.

 

As the smoke cleared, Loki lay defeated, his illusions shattered, and his magic weakened. The Teen Titans, battered but unbroken, stood together, ready to bring the god of mischief to justice.

 

But Loki had one last trick up his sleeve. With a cunning smile, he whispered an incantation, and a green emerald glow encased his form.

 

Before the Titans could react, Loki vanished, disappearing into yet another unknown.

 

Robin clenched his fists in frustration. "He got away. But we won't stop until we bring him back and put an end to his mischief. He is clearly a bad guy now."

 

The Teen Titans exchanged glances of frustration and determination. 

 

But unknown to them, Loki had left behind a parting gift. A subtle enchantment had been woven into their minds during their battle, a seed of discord planted by Loki's cunning magic.

 

An art of deception from Loki in his grand plan.

 

As the Titans regrouped and made their way back to Titan Tower, the enchantment began to take hold, it's intention manifesting in their minds.

 

---

 

A/N: The Teen Titans were too good in this fight, unlike what we have normally seen, but that's because Loki is evaluating them and I had to present them at their best.

 

Loki is in a haste to go and work on his plans (expect something grand)...his intentions still unknown to us. But it's clear that he wants the Justice League out of the way. That's why he barely puts up a fight with the Titans and assumes defeat.

 

Thanks.

Chapter 9. The Attack on the Watch Tower

(Intro)

 

The Watch Tower, an awe-inspiring testament to human achievement and technological prowess, hung silently against the backdrop of the endless cosmos.

 

Bathed in the gentle luminescence of distant stars, this gleaming fortress of justice and hope was perched in Earth's orbit, a symbol of unwavering commitment to safeguarding the world from threats beyond imagination.

 

The tower itself was a masterpiece of modern architecture, its sleek silver exterior reflecting the brilliant light of the sun. 

 

The Justice League's emblem, a bold symbol of a stylized "J" encircled by stars, adorned its surface, a beacon that could be seen even from Earth's surface.

 

Massive, curved windows lined the exterior, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the planet below and the expanse of space beyond. 

 

These windows, reinforced with advanced materials, provided both natural light and a connection to the cosmic theater that played out beyond them.

 

Inside, the heart of the Watch Tower was the control room, a sprawling command center that usually hummed with activity. 

 

Holographic displays, each pulsating with vital information, surrounded a central console. 

 

The room was bathed in the soft glow of multicolored screens and control panels. Crimson alarm lights, positioned strategically throughout, added a sense of urgency as they cast eerie flashes across the room during emergencies.

 

The control room was designed to be a hub of constant motion. Heroes, each with their unique costumes and abilities, normally operated these consoles and communicated with one another through advanced communication systems. 

 

The air was however still charged with a palpable sense of purpose and readiness.

 

A figure stood resolutely in the nearly empty control room of the Watch Tower. Surrounded by the array of holographic displays and state-of-the-art technology, he cut a distinctive figure in his emerald-hued costume and hood.

 

The soft glow of the monitors cast a pale reflection on his rugged, bearded face, highlighting his serious demeanor. 

 

His piercing blue eyes, sharp and vigilant, scanned the data streaming across the screens, absorbing every detail with hawk-like precision.

 

His mind recollected the strange events that had transpired in Gotham as the League members who had witnessed them walked into the Watch Tower.

 

The quiet hum of the advanced machinery served as a backdrop to his presence, as he stood ready to lend his sharpshooting skills and tactical acumen to any impending crisis. 

 

His signature weapon, a quiver of high-tech arrows, hung at his side, a reminder of his unparalleled marksmanship.

 

Then he saw it; The familiar high-speed space craft equiped with cutting edge technology approaching the Watch Tower.

 

This particular spacecraft was designed to be used only in high-level, special emergency situations, and he couldn't help but wonder what it's occupants were doing here.

 

"Could they have captured him and failed to report from Earth?" He wondered.

 

Then, without warning, the spacecraft unleashed a devastating attack on the Watch Tower.

 

Powerful energy beams lanced out from the craft, striking the tower's sleek silver exterior. The impact created dazzling bursts of light and sent shockwaves rippling through the structure. 

 

Alarms blared in response to the unexpected assault, filling the control room with urgent, blaring sirens as warnings were sent throughout the Watch Tower.

 

The Green Arrow's piercing blue eyes widened in alarm as he rushed to the nearest console. He could see the holographic displays flashing with warnings of breaches and damage. 

 

The Watch Tower's security systems were scrambling to respond to this surprise attack.

 

The advanced machinery in the control room hummed with increased urgency as he desperately tried to initiate countermeasures. 

 

What was going on? What were they thinking attacking the Justice League?!

 

(A friendly attack)

 

The heroes of the Justice League had sprang into action as Wonder Woman took command and headed for the control room. 

 

The Flash, blurred into motion as the Green Arrow briefed them on the situation. With lightning-fast speed, he darted through the corridors of the Watch Tower, leaving streaks of crimson and gold in his wake. 

 

He raced toward the damaged section of the Watch Tower where the attack had occurred.

 

Reaching the breach, he found the shattered remains of the massive curved window, with jagged shards of glass hanging dangerously in the vacuum of space. 

 

The breach had exposed the Watch Tower to the harsh conditions of the cosmos, making it imperative to act swiftly.

 

Before he could do anything, a series of reinforced, heavy metal shields activated around the breach, sealing it off from the vacuum of space. 

 

These shields were deployed at a moment's notice to protect the Watch Tower's integrity.

 

"So much for using my energy to get here." The Flash said to himself, disappointed that he couldn't be of use in the current situation.

 

Meanwhile, the Green Lantern, raced to an access point within the Watch Tower. A secure airlock chamber specially built to connect the Watch Tower's interior to the cold vacuum of space.

 

The airlock's metallic doors slid open with a hiss as Hal Jordan entered, the emerald energy of his power ring illuminating the chamber. This was the threshold between the safety of the Watch Tower's interior and the perilous expanse of space.

 

Inside the airlock, he activated his emerald power ring, and in an instant, an emerald-green spacesuit materialized around him. 

 

The suit was equipped with advanced life-support systems, allowing him to survive in the unforgiving vacuum of space he was about to throw himself into. 

 

Hal manipulated the airlock controls, initiating the process of equalizing the air pressure between the Watch Tower and the vacuum outside. The machinery hummed to life as it prepared to seal the inner door and open the outer one.

 

As the outer door of the airlock began to slide open, the full majesty of space unfolded before him. The starlit cosmos stretched out endlessly, and he could see the spacecraft that had attacked the Watch Tower.

 

Hal took a deep breath inside his emerald spacesuit, feeling the life-support systems kick in to provide him with the necessary oxygen and protection from the harsh conditions of space. 

 

With his power ring glowing brightly, he stepped into the void, ready to confront the mysterious attackers.

 

As he made his way towards the spacecraft, which appeared to be charging up for another assault, his thoughts raced. He recognized the embalm on the spacecraft's surface and his thoughts plunged into confusion.

 

Oliver had briefed them on a spacecraft attacking the Watch Tower, but he didn't say that it was the Teen Titans emergency spacecraft!

 

He however had to act quickly before the spacecraft released another attack. But just as he was about to unleash the power of his ring, something unexpected happened.

 

The spacecraft, which had been hovering menacingly, suddenly vanished into the vast expanse of space. It disappeared without a trace, leaving behind only a shimmering distortion in its wake.

 

It's occupants, aware of the unprepared nature of their attack and the overwhelming odds had left the scene, disappearing into the vast cosmos as more trouble brewed in their minds.

 

Hal's emerald energy construct, formed and ready to strike, faltered as the target vanished. Confusion washed over him as he used his com to update the Justice League.

 

"Did you see that?!" He exclaimed.

 

Meanwhile in the control room, confusion and surprise took a toll as the Green Arrow and Wonder Woman watched the event unfold.

 

"Do you think they lost their ship to someone or are they just playing tricks on us?" The Green Arrow asked.

 

"I don't know. Have you tried to reach out to them?" Wonder Woman asked.

 

"Yes. But the signals are jammed, I can't get through to them." Oliver replied.

 

"Something might have happened." Wonder Woman said, deep in thought. "Maybe they came across the god of Mischief and...We have to help them.

 

"You are an Amazonian. Have you ever heard of the god of Mischief called Loki?" Oliver asked.

 

"No. But I sense that he is up to no good. Him and the sorcerer in the medical bay." Dianna replied. "We have to watch him closely. His power is like anything I have ever felt before. And I fear it might have affected Clark somehow, although he is not showing it at the moment."

 

(My new room)

 

The whispers around became louder and louder as I felt my body being moved around.

 

My half-conscious body was being carefully transported through the Watch Tower's dimly lit corridors, the murmurs of the Justice League members full in the air. 

 

They walked beside me, a mixture of curiosity and caution, and on high alert, ready to react to any potential threat.

 

As they moved deeper into the Watch Tower, they eventually arrived at a secure chamber shrouded in advanced technology. 

 

It was a containment cell that had been used only one other time. 

 

The chamber's entrance was flanked by imposing doors that slid open with a hiss, revealing a sterile, pristine interior bathed in a soft light. The walls of the chamber were lined with powerful ancient runes and symbols, etched into the material.

 

This chamber was designed to nullify magical abilities.

 

Within the center of the chamber lay an intricate circle, inscribed with more arcane symbols. This was the focal point, the heart of the containment mechanism, ready to neutralize any magical forces that entered its domain.

 

With the utmost care, they gently lowered me onto the floor, positioning me precisely at the center.

 

The moment my body touched the circle, the chamber's containment protocols initiated. Invisible energies surged through the room, forming an impenetrable barrier around the circle. 

 

The runes on the walls illuminated with a brilliant glow as they activated, and a soft, resonating hum filled the air.

 

The Green Arrow, his bow at the ready, murmured his relief. "Let's hope this does the trick."

Chapter 10. In A New World...

(Watch Tower - Control room)

 

In the control room of the Watch Tower, the Justice League members gathered around the holographic displays, trying to make sense of the baffling events that had just unfolded. 

 

Cyborg, who was among them, was attempting to establish contact with his fellow Teen Titans, but his efforts were met with nothing but static.

 

"It's like they've vanished off the grid," Cyborg muttered, frustration evident in his synthetic voice. 

 

He tapped his fingers rapidly on the control panel, trying various frequencies in a futile attempt to reach his fellow Titans.

 

Superman, Green Arrow, Wonder Woman, and the others exchanged concerned glances. Something was clearly amiss, and they couldn't afford to be in the dark.

 

Batman was preoccupied in the aftermath of the chaos in Gotham and Aquaman had descended back to Atlantis to handle a situation.

 

They discussed their options, their suspicions pointing towards the mysterious character who had called himself the god of mischief.

 

Superman, who had been standing nearby, suddenly staggered, clutching his head. 

 

His eyes, usually filled with unwavering resolve, now betrayed a hint of pain and confusion.

 

"Clark, are you okay?" Wonder Woman rushed to his side, supporting him as he stumbled.

 

Superman's voice trembled as he replied, "I...I don't know. Something's wrong. It feels like there's a storm in my mind, moving through my body."

 

The other heroes gathered around, their expressions a mix of concern and alarm. 

 

"Let's get you to the medical bay." Wonder Woman said as she balanced Superman's weight on her shoulders.

 

"Oliver, contact him and tell him that his presence is needed in the Watch Tower, now." Wonder Woman cryptically said to Green Arrow as the Flash came in to help with Superman.

 

"Hal, see if you can find the Teen Titans emergency spacecraft in space. We still need to find answers and rescue the Teen Titans if they are in trouble." She continued to show her command over the situation.

 

Superman groaned beside her as he felt something weird surge through his body. It felt like something was draining his whole essence out.

 

"Victor, you're with me." Princess Diana issued her last command.

 

The Flash, Wonder Woman and Cyborg took Superman to the medical bay as the rest went to do their designated tasks.

 

Green Arrow quickly made his way to a secure communications console in the control room, his fingers flying over the holographic controls. 

 

He established the communication link as the familiar green-skinned Martian's face appeared on the holographic display. 

 

"J'onn, we've got a situation here," Green Arrow began, his voice tense but controlled. "Superman's been hit, and we need your help. Use the JL Teleporter and get here quickly."

 

Martian Manhunter's alien eyes furrowed in concern. "I'll be there shortly. Keep an eye on him."

 

Hal Jordan, donned in his emerald suit, had departed from the Watch Tower. He soared into the cold expanse of space, his emerald energy construct propelling him forward as he searched for any sign of the spacecraft.

 

The vastness of space stretched out before him, dotted with stars and cosmic wonders. Hal knew that finding the spacecraft in this immense void wouldn't be easy, but he had to locate it and, bring the Titans safely back.

 

In the Watch Tower's medical bay, Wonder Woman, The Flash, and Cyborg watched with growing concern as Superman lay on a diagnostic bed. The Man of Steel's usual resilience seemed diminished, and he appeared weakened.

 

His wilderness retreat cut short, Martian Manhunter arrived in the medical bay, his tall, imposing figure exuding an aura of calm and authority. He approached Superman, his green skin reflecting the sterile light of the room.

 

"I'll use my telepathic abilities to delve into Superman's mind and see if I can identify the source of his distress," Martian Manhunter explained to the others.

 

They nodded.

 

As Martian Manhunter extended his hand toward Superman's forehead, he closed his eyes in concentration. His psychic abilities began to probe the depths of Superman's consciousness, searching for any signs of intrusion or tampering.

 

Inside Superman's mind, Martian Manhunter encountered a tumultuous storm of thoughts and emotions. It was as if a whirlwind of chaos had swept through, disrupting the usually ordered and unwavering mind of the Man of Steel.

 

Images of a blinding light flashed through Superman's thoughts like fragments of a shattered puzzle.

 

Martian Manhunter navigated carefully through this mental turbulence, trying to find the root cause. He sensed a presence, a strange alien energy, lurking deep within Superman's psyche.

 

It was unlike anything he had encountered before. It emanated a strong mystic and archaic energy that was foreign to their world.

 

As Martian Manhunter delved deeper into the chaotic maelstrom within Superman's mind, he reached a point where the strange energy he encountered became overwhelming. It surged through him like an electrical shock, causing his normally stoic features to contort in pain.

 

With a sudden, involuntary jolt, Martian Manhunter was forcibly expelled from Superman's mind, his form dissipating into a green mist. His telepathic link with the others in the medical bay shattered, leaving them momentarily stunned and confused.

 

"What happened?" Wonder Woman exclaimed, rushing to where Martian Manhunter had stood just moments ago.

 

The Flash, his speedster reflexes on high alert, tried to reach out with his own speed-enhanced thoughts, but there was nothing. 

 

It was as if Martian Manhunter had been hurled out of Superman's mind by an impenetrable force, leaving him clueless and disoriented.

 

Superman, still in a state of distress, groaned on the diagnostic bed, his condition unchanged. Whatever had taken hold of his mind remained a profound mystery.

 

The green mist-like form slowly began to coalesce, taking on its familiar humanoid shape. It was a gradual and deliberate process, as Manhunter focused on regaining his full physical presence.

 

As his form solidified, he opened his eyes, his green gaze meeting the concerned looks of Wonder Woman, The Flash, and Cyborg.

 

"I have never encountered anything like this before," he admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty. "Whatever is affecting Superman's mind, it's of an immense and mysterious nature."

 

"His vitals are showing to be normal." Cyborg said, perplexed, monitoring the diagnostic readings from the nearby console.

 

Unable to hold back any further, Wonder Woman stormed out of the medical bay, her mind made up. She needed answers, and she knew where to find them.

 

(Watch Tower - Containment Chamber)

 

My eyes flickered open and I found myself lying on a cold, smooth surface. 

 

I had regained my conscious fully, and the memories of my time in my subconscious now feeling distant but clear.

 

I pushed myself up into a sitting position and observed my attire to confirm what I had began to believe and hope for. Everything was as I had expected.

 

Great.

 

I'm Doctor Strange, that was crystal clear.

 

Next, enthusiastic to see what I could do, I moved my fingers in a swirling motion to see if I could create a portal, or anything so long as it was magic.

 

Nothing happened.

 

Even worse, I couldn't feel the mystical energy flowing through me or crackling at my fingertips as it did before.

 

I tried again, this time focusing and repeating the copied words of Doctor Strange in my head.

 

"Control by surrendering control."

 

Still nothing.

 

I couldn't let a few failed attempts make me despair. I could do it dammit! I was the owner of the body of a sorcerer supreme. I tried again.

 

And again.

 

And again.

 

Still nothing.

 

All the while as I kept on pushing, I had failed to notice the environment I was in.

 

The walls that were a seamless metallic gray, and the only source of light emanating from a circular overhead fixture that cast an eerie, bluish glow.

 

The intricate circle etched into the floor beneath me, covered in ancient symbols.

 

The world around seemed lost to my senses as I focused on creating magic.

 

A hiss originating from somewhere in front of me startled me and I finally looked up, taking a quick sweep of the room as I focused my gaze at the sliding door.

 

Wonder Woman entered. She strode in with a determined look on her face, her Amazonian armor gleaming in the chamber's eerie light as she headed towards me.

 

An invisible barrier that nullified my magic stood before us as she demanded.

 

"What did you do to Superman?" she asked, her voice carrying a tone of frustration.

 

"What?" I asked, but not meaning too.

 

My second thing on my checklist confirmed. I was in DC. How all this had happened, I didn't know. 

 

Doctor Strange had explained how I had come to possess his body, but he didn't say what he was doing in DC.

 

"What was that explosion you did back in Gotham?" She asked a different question, her patience withering.

 

"Oh, boy!" I sighed to myself as I recalled picking a fight with the Justice League back in Gotham.

 

I was probably locked up in somewhere terrible such as Arkham Asylum. 

 

How would I get myself out of this mess?

 

---

A/N:

All the events that have transpired so far to this point have happened in a matter of a few hours, laying a solid foundation for the story. 

 

Now that Razake has a woken, he is ready to start his journey in the new world, knowing all too well that it's not a dream.

 

In a new world, there are 5 stages... Survive, Explore, Adventure, Conquer and Become a God!

 

Thanks.