Chapter 4 - Chapter 4

A few days ago at an undisclosed location.

"What am I looking at?" Amanda Waller inquired of her assistant/second-in-command. She had been rewinding and watching the footage for several hours as what she was witnessing astounded her.

"That was a fight between the Justice league and an unknown group of meta humans who by our calculations emerged when we detected the energy spike at the port." The general spoke up. He took the time to compile all of the CCTV videos of the fight that he could get his hands on, including those recorded by Lex Luther's satellites. The only copies he couldn't get his hands on were those from the watchtower, because they couldn't exploit the zero day they discovered in their recently patched system. That made them regret why they took so long to exploit it due to assumptions of being discovered should they use it soon after discovering it.

"I'm aware of that," Waller said, her gaze narrowing at him. I'm referring to this." She rotated the tablet to show him a looping video of Superman fighting the Hulk.

"That is yet to be determined, Sir," said the General. Amanda Waller was always addressed as sir since the things she did for her country are highly questionable if she is ever held accountable for them. It was the respect and dread that earned her the title Sir; she possessed balls of steel in terms of bravery.

"They are not in any database nor is there any trace of them aside from that night. It's as if they started existing at the port." The general continued.

"Have you managed to track them after the port?"

"No, they went dark 10 miles from the port." They've been missing since." Ivan, the general, responded.

"What does the Justice league know about them?" Waller questioned while still watching the video. The green humanoid thing was fascinating, and she was already considering incorporating it into Project White, the concept appealing to her every time she considered it.

Ivan glanced uncertain at his employer since she disliked failures or bad news, and her rage was worse than Lex Luthor's. She looked up at him, anticipating an answer after noticing his hesitancy.

"We don't know Sir." Ivan answered by staring her down, ready to take on whatever punishment was thrown his way. Everyone in the armament and arms industry understood that Waller admired the bold and those who provided her with results.

"Explain," she says, her eyes narrowing at him. Her patience was becoming thin by the second.

"Sometime in the last 24 hours, the Justice League discovered our zero-day exploit and developed a patch for it." We no longer have access to their files, and our informant cannot be activated." He responded knowing that she would realize that activating the asset now would simply result in him or her being identified early, resulting in inefficient use of him or her.

She returned to the tablet and kept watching the video after a few more seconds of staring at him. "We need to find these people before the Justice League." Stop all existing operations and devote all available resources to locating them. This will be our number one priority." Waller said, dismissing him with a wave of her hand.

Ivan walked the long corridors of their secret base in deep thought and returned to their operation center very furious at how little he had to report to his boss.

"Did you tell her about the hack?" Yvonne, one of the technicians asked him as he entered.

"What do you think!" he ground out. "Report!" He commanded.

"We still haven't determined the source of it." Yvonne reported starting to give him the report they had established.

"The amount of data compromised is unknown, this guy knew what he was doing, he bypassed our firewalls in seconds without the system detecting it and if it weren't for our firewalls refortifying every few seconds it would have gone unnoticed." The second tech said.

"How do you know it's a he and not a she!?" Yvonne asked offended at the insinuation.

Tech 2 looked about to retort something sarcastic but thought better of it at the last second, "I'm sorry, I'm still learning the social norms of this place. The intruders knew what they were doing." Tech 2 rectified.

"How do you know they were many and not one person, huh!?" Yvonne pressed on. "Come on.. I-"

"ENOUGH!" Ivan fumed narrowing his eyes at them with a promise to shoot something should he not get answers in the next second.

"A lot of organizations appear to have been compromised as well. An internal security audit is being conducted, according to our source within Luther Corp, and our backdoor into their system has also been detected and patched. The Pentagon's databases were also compromised." Yvonne provided the information.

"What about the Justice league?" Ivan inquired, his gaze drawn to the second technician, who was busily typing code into the supercomputer.

"We can't confirm that sir." Tech 2 responded by bringing up tabs with ACCESS DENIED, demonstrating their failure to breach the league databases.

"Project White," Ivan spoke out.

"We are beginning the final stages of its development. The power input was doubled since we detected some kind of resistance the day before..." Yvonne supplied.

"What do you mean resistance?" Ivan asked slightly alarmed. At this rate his boss would flip out really soon if they didn't succeed in something...his boss would know very soon if she didn't already because Amanda Waller knew everything.

"It was unresponsive to the information presented to it." Yvonne replied bringing up the footage for her boss to see.

Gritting his teeth "Tell them to do a trial run again. Should it resist I am to be called in immediately." A setback is the last thing we need right now Ivan thought as he exited the operation center heading to the top side elevators intending to go out and relax in the town grab a beer or two after this stressful day. Every soldier he passed stood and gave a full salute to him before proceeding. One thing Ivan liked about his job was the respect he commanded, after Sir Waller of course.

"Dr. Clooney isn't picking up or responding to his pager." Tech 2 told Yvonne looking unsure. "Somebody has to go down to level 65 and inform him."

Hearing the hesitation in his voice Yvonne looked up from the computer at him. "Why are you looking at me? I ain't going down there." Dr. Clooney was a highly frightening individual who was well-known in the scientific world for his constant involvement in experiments. Amanda Waller frequently overlooked his perversions and experiments because he usually provided results because most of the experiments were always successful after a few trials. She only intervened when the trials were borderline inhumane or too risky for their intended purpose, or when the project would draw the notice of the league.

"It's your turn. We flipped on it the last time I went." He pointed out.

"Yeah...Games are for losers. Down you go." She directed her hand movement downwards, "I outrank you." She said smirking.

"I hate my job." Tech 2 murmured while getting up heading for the exit to the corridors.

"No you don't." Yvonne chased him down, giggling. None of them disliked their jobs, and the compensation was adequate, if not excessive, allowing them to enjoy extremely comfortable lives outside of work. So, for young people like them who had no immediate responsibilities other than from their parents, this work was a dream come true.

"Who are you?" Waller inquired aloud, his gaze fixed on the green humanoid creature as powerful as Superman. What if we splice its DNA and fuse it with Project White, she wondered, plans already emerging for how to turn it into their ultimate weapon.

She was going to put the tablet in the drawer when she received an encrypted voice call. She tightened up. This phone number was only accessible to one individual. "Good morning Mr. President." She responded. "Yes sir I am aware of it." "No sir, they are not ours." "We are currently tracking them sir." "Yes sir." "I will keep you informed sir." "Thank you sir." The phone call was terminated. She'd just lied her a$$ off about knowing where the group was. "How did he find out about this?" It hasn't even been 48 hours." She clenched her teeth, knowing that one of her staff was not as devoted as she had assumed. "No matter, this will be resolved soon enough." She remarked this as she stood up and exited her office, walking to the elevator to check on all the projects they were facilitating while having a million and one thoughts. When she entered the elevator, she tapped her earpiece. "What resistance?" "What hack!?" She demanded through the earpiece, pressing the elevator's emergency stop button. Gritting her teeth and quickly reactivating the elevator, she changed the floor destination. "What!"

Lex Corp at the top floor

"Excuse me sir, Mr Grodd is on line 3." Came a voice from his office telephone. It was his secretary whom he trusted with some of his secrets which was proven time to time again that she couldn't diverge even with some form of interrogation. One couldn't end up working for him without undergoing tests of his own.

"Tell him I'm not in." He instructed and resumed looking into his computer.

Some shuffling and some light walking could be heard from the other end of the line then the opening and closing of a door.

"He says I am to jump if you don't receive his call in the next 30 seconds." Came her trembling voice. Looking out his massive window he saw Rachel (his secretary) balancing on the edge of the balcony with two phones on ether sides of her ears.

"Not again" he groaned reaching to accept Grodds call. "What do you want? I'm busy!" He demanded into the phone watching his secretary getting down from the edge and back into her office. If it had been any other secretary he would have called Grodd's bluff which usually ended up with a lot of blood spluttering everywhere but Rachel was the most efficient secretary he ever had and he won't waste any time looking for another replacement. Good help is really hard to find nowadays He thought. The office was made up of reinforced glass walls which can become translucent at the touch of a button thus privacy was guaranteed anytime.

"The computer has crashed." Grodd's voice sounded. "I know, I have upgraded the system. Just reboot it. For a man of such intelligence you sure don't seem to use it at times." Lex replied already bored of the conversation.

"I knew that. Bizzaro." was all Grodd responded. "Aaaahhhhh!" Lex banged the desk a couple of times with the phone out of frustration.

"Do you idiots know how much one of those computers cost!? Let alone getting one!" He demanded throwing out a string of curses while Grodd waited patiently for him to vent out his anger which was by now a common occurrence for the two of them during most of their meetings and calls.

"Can you get it or not. Bizzaro wants to willingly get one by himself." Grodd added already knowing how to deal with Luther for now.

"I'll take care of it." Lex told Grodd rubbing his forehead out of frustration. At this rate, his many projects would run him out of money by the time he was through with them.

"Good" Grodd acknowledged. "Oh and Luther...the next time you insult my intelligence will be the last time you won't need any help going to the lavatory." He hang up before Luthor could respond.

Stupid fool. It's only a matter of time before I won't need you and those lowlife criminals he thought.

"Rachel, why don't you come in for a moment?" He called into the telephone.

She walked in coming to stand in front of her boss. "Yes, Sir. What can I do for you?" She asked looking down feeling disappointed in herself.

"Where is the bracelet I gave you?" Lex asked giving her a once over look. She was really easy in the eyes but Luthor believed the saying that went by don't shit where you eat and that's why he kept their relationship purely professional because once feelings are involved then everything always gets fucked up.

"A pickpocket snatched it in the train today." She confessed feeling terrible for having lost her boss's present, who in-turn looked at her slightly confused.

"What were you doing in a train?" he asked his face cringing at the mention of train and the thought of how contested they usually were.

"My car had a flat tire yesterday evening and triple A couldn't send a guy immediately." She answered smacking herself mentally for not noticing the obvious signs.

"Don't you have another one?" Lex asked incredulously.

"No I don't, but I'm saving to get another one sir." He looked at her again, narrowing his eyes making her to increasingly become afraid for her job.

"What do you do with the money I pay you if you can't buy a decent car?" He inquired suddenly suspicious. Any sign of a person having an offshore account was cause for alarms.

Taken aback by his question and tone of voice she replied warily, "I pay for the lease on my apartment, buy utilities, groceries-"

"I know all that but what about the remaining.." He cut himself short. "How much do I pay you?" He asked her suddenly.

"Uuuhmmmm...20,000$ per month..." Rachel answered unsure if her boss was alright or Grodd had messed with his mind. She always assumed he knew her salary, he was her boss after all.

"What! My suit costs more than that. Since when?" He asked amazed at how she survives on so little. That's why it was so easy for Grodd to get to her. He thought.

"Since I started working for Lex Corp sir." She stated. Lex typed into his computer and studied the information brought forward to him. A list of all Lex Corp employees and all their details and their pay grades.

He opened his cheque book and wrote down a number before tearing it out and handing it to her. "This will be your new salary as from today. Start by getting yourself some decent cars. Not this train nonsense again." He instructed her.

Rachel was still looking at the paper she was holding amazed at how many zeros she was seeing. "Tha- thank you sir" she stammered still looking at the cheque.

"No need, hard work should be recognized. You have the day off. Get your affairs in order. Then go to a store at the corner of the Daily Planet Street called You Need It, Halla and ask for Peter. Describe your necklace to him. Tell him I sent you." He instructed to Rachel who was leaning on his every word, only moments ago she thought she would be fired.

"Thank you sir" she replied sincerely then walked out of the office.

"Now let's see what we have here" he spoke out loud to himself while reopening the video he had been watching before being interrupted. He watched the avengers and the Justice league fight, specifically two people, the guy in the red mechanical combat body armor (iron man) and the green humanoid monster (the hulk) going blow to blow with superman, a thing only Bizzaro, Hyperion, and Grundy could ever manage. I have to buy the research facility that invented that suit and soon before that Wayne tech billionaire gets his hands on it. He thought. In the whole world, only Bruce Wayne had the fortune to outbid him for anything.

Earlier he had attempted to trace the hack or get the hackers signature but it was a dead end which led him to believe one of two people hacked him and the other organizations, either the Justice League or Amanda Waller.

"Interesting.." he continued to watch already coming up with various plans in his head.

Currently at the watchtower

The Question was sitting in front of the monitor rifling through the many documents and pictures he had in front of him while also viewing the fight video and scanning the frequencies in case there was any emergency the league needed to be informed about. He was on monitor duty that week which he preferred doing alone since he had told his superiors that having a partner would only slow him down.

He was reading up on all the conspiracies the people came up with concerning their new arrivals while also hacking this and that databases to retrieve the Intel he needed. That was why he loved monitor duty, most organizations used systems that dwarfed to that of the watchtower so it was a gold mine to someone like him, those who generally loved information.

"Interesting" he voiced while reading an article by Lois Lane about the night in question and the league members responses after that, suspecting that she most likely knew or got intricate details which she did not include in the article probably from their mutual friend.

The Question was the only member aside from the original founding members who knew the identities of most of the members in the leagues roaster. He knew of the relationship between superman and Lois Lane which he had predicted would happen way before the league had been formed.

"Supergirl to watchtower." A transmission came through the monitor breaking Questions concentration and thought process.

"Reading you loud and clear" he responded already activating the teleporter for transport.

"We request teleportation up to the tower." Came supergirl's voice. Normally she would just fly up to the tower enjoying the view but in this particular mission she was assigned with the Huntress who was not blessed with the ability of flight much less could survive in space.

"Request granted" the Question responded and then teleported them in. After hearing the teleporter power up and down him continued with his own research in important matters.

Supergirl and the Huntress teleported in ready to write their reports of the mission and then call it a night. The mission was in a Mediterranean island where a dormant volcano that was usually a tourist site became active destroying a couple of properties along its wake before it was stopped. So they were both beat.

"Oh No! I totally forgot about today's meeting!" Supergirl whispered to Huntress when she saw the small but many gatherings of super hero groups seemingly very engrossed in discussion.

"What meeting?" Huntress asked confused before pulling up her phone to confirm the dates and events of the league activities.

Peeking at her phone over her shoulder, "I thought there was a meeting" she told her while gesturing at the crowd gathered around them.

"Not one that I'm aware of...the next meeting is on a Thursday the following week. Let's ask someone." Huntress suggested with them being part timers and only getting called in when the workload defeats the workforce. Supergirl still dealing with school and Huntress was a lone vigilante fighting crimes as per her own rules.

Scanning the hall room they saw and went to vixen, zatana and black canary who were secluded in a corner away from the others who seemed to be avoiding them.

"What's going on?" Supergirl asked coming to a stop first then Huntress.

"Why are there so many people moving about? Is this an emergency meeting? Is there an emergency?" Huntress asked worriedly. If it was indeed an emergency then why did she or Kara not have any information about it?

In her case, she knew she didn't have high ranking connections among the league members but surely superman would have warned his cousin in case there was an emergency meeting. Being a vigilante was the most important part of Huntress life.

The three heroines looked at her incredulously. "Haven't you heard?" Vixen asked them. The confused looks on both supergirl and Huntress faces prompted her to explain.

"The unknown group is here. One of the heroes saw them enter the conference room with the founding leaguers. We're all waiting to see them or help if it's needed."

"They are not dangerous." Zatana blurted out with a roll of her eyes. "They would be in the holding cells instead of the conference room if they were a threat."

"I agree but it never hurts to be cautious. Have any of you seen the footage of the fight?" Supergirl couldn't help but agree with both of them.

"We all have." Black canary answered. "I can't believe superman was knocked out...no offense Supergirl." She quickly added.

"Non taken. I was quite shocked. I didn't know our bones could be broken by anything on this earth." Supergirl replied. Makes me question everything I know about my strengths and weaknesses. Supergirl finished with a thought.

"Does Batman know of this little gathering" Huntress asked knowing he would never condone this.

"Yes he does, most of us have returned from our missions and are waiting to give our reports." Black canary smiled mischievously. They were all curious about the unknown group and it seemed most of them were willing to confront Batman if it meant they satisfied their curiosity.

"What do you think they're discussing in there?" Huntress asked deciding to direct the line of questioning to more informative ones.

The other superheroes gathered around had cast puzzled glances at Supergirl's appearance. They figured that because she was Superman's cousin and one of the most powerful individuals in the league, she would be in the meeting or at the very least involved in whatever was going on, but her perplexed expression told them differently. Most of the superheroes wished they could join the group of beautiful yet lethal female heroines in discussing the current situation, but none of them interacted with the ladies because they were not on the Justice League's list of either permanent or temporary members, making being in the watchtower a rare occurrence.

"Maybe they want to join the league?" Asked a hopeful Supergirl who in her view saw the opportunity to avoid the another fight.

Zatana shaking her head at Supergirl "Seriously?" but only got a shrug as response.

"Did you watch the same video we did?" Vixen asked arching one eyebrow at Supergirl.

"It is not impossible for it to happen." Huntress attempted to defend her teammate.

"It was just a suggestion, no need to hang a girl for one!" Supergirl defended herself raising her arms up in surrender.

"Well I would love to have a crack at them if they are against us." Black canary smirked while massaging her throat, her weapon.

"As much as I would like to witness that, I'm afraid you'll have to wait a little longer for it to happen." Batmans voice came from their side startling them.

"I didn't see you there." Black canary smiled mischievously at Batman who just smirked and looked to the upper level balcony where superman came to a stop with the Avengers in tow.

Inside the Conference room

"I believe personal introductions have been made amongst ourselves..." Batman stopped to look at his audience consisting of the Avengers and the Justice League and Ben.

"I believe so" responded Captain America who was standing beside him.

"Then it's time to officially introduce ourselves, Justice League members will start." "Batman," pointing to himself. "Superman" "Wonderwoman" "J'onn" "Green lantern" "Green arrow" "Cyborg" "Shazam" each of them identifying themselves with a nod.

"Captain America" "Iron man" "Thor" "Black Widow" "Wanda" "The Hulk...the big green guy" everyone except The Avengers, Ben, Batman and Superman was surprised at that. "Hawkeye" the Avengers introduced themselves.

"How did you-?" Batman began questioning but was cut short by a cough resonating from Ben.

"Ben…if you must know" Ben murmured his ego a little bruised that he was forgotten. "What? Afraid you're old news?" Green lantern goaded.

Smirking at him, "Nope, it's not my style being insecure."

Low chuckles could be heard from around the table. Green lantern narrowed his eyes at Ben who didn't show a hint of fear at Green lanterns clenched fists. Everyone in the room knew Green lantern had a problem with Ben the moment his ring was challenged as the most powerful device in the universe by Ben's watch. It was the Guardians duty to regulate weapons and technology productions in all sectors and they were involved in any weapon or technology that would potentially lead to mass extinction. So until he was counseled by the Guardians themselves he doubted every one of Ben's revelations. I can conjure up anything I damn want with this ring, I'd be damned if that piece of watch is more powerful than the Green lanterns ring. Hal thought.

Batman continued before the two could start taunting each other. "Tell us what happened before you were transported to this world."

"We were in our headquarters when a bright light engulfed us. The next thing we know is we woke up in the port." Cap summarized for his teammates.

"I'll need more details than that." Batman insisted looking at Cap who just stared back at him. It was all he remembered considering he was the first one to wake up and the last to be absorbed by the light.

"This could help." Iron man said projecting a video on the conference table. Everyone watched keenly. It was the first time the Avengers were seeing this video from the looks they were throwing at Iron man.

"Jarvis finished processing the recovered footage from the Avengers tower some minutes ago before he was out of range of My network." He explained looking at the video.

The video showed the Avengers relaxing with some champagne and drinks laughing at something said by Thor, when the lights started flickering and the video getting distorted abit. The white light materialized in the middle of them. They could faintly see something inside the blinding light. Hawkeye and Natasha being nearest to the light were sucked in first. Immediately Banner saw this, he changed into the Hulk and jumped into it after them. Wanda tried creating a shield around herself with her magic but was just as easily sucked in, the light easily decimating her magic shield. Iron man activated all his propulsion systems attempting to fly away but he was just as easily sucked in. Thor span his hammer flying up with the might of Miljonir but the lights force was greater than Miljonir which lead to Thor being sucked in. Cap held onto one of the tower pillars with all the strength the super soldier serum could grant him. The pull however threatened to dismember Caps arms thus he let go falling into the light which then dissipated making the room look normal as if nothing happened.

"Who's that?" Black widow and Batman asked at the same time pointing to a dark corner of the room with a humanoid figure blending in with the darkness.

"I don't know. This is the best Jarvis could get out of all the recovered videos." Iron man said looking at the others while the video was in a loop in the hologram.

"I can help with that if you send me the files." Ben suggested looking at Iron man

"I'm sorry but your computer skills can't compare to Jarvis." Iron man said annoyed at the suggestion he could do better than him. "Or does that watch have a computer alien too!?" He added skeptically watching Ben. The others just following the banter between the two seeing where this will lead.

Batman didn't want to intervene since he knew that Ben would no doubt prove Iron man wrong and that was something not even him could pass up on. Something about Iron man just ticked him off.

"I actually do have an alien that does that sort of thing but it won't be necessary at the moment. Trixx could perfectly handle it." Ben answered Iron man. Trixx had long since retrieved the video from the database copies she had secured from Iron man. When Tony brought it up Ben had mentally commanded Trixx to bring it up and repair it to the best of her abilities. The files retrieved was so damaged that Ben understood why Jarvis managed to recover only a small segment and in 144p quality. Trixx was currently processing the repair which was at 70% to completion. Ben asked for the files from Iron man so that he wouldn't flip out when he suddenly had his encrypted file on the matter. He didn't want any distrust to develop among them.

"Who the hell is Trixx!? Aren't you a little too young to be doing stuff?" Iron man couldn't help himself from taking a dig at him. Call it the childishness in him that Miss Pepper has been trying to get rid of for many years now. Thinking of Pepper made him frown a bit but no one saw because of his suits faceplate.

"Don't tell me you believe you're the only one with Jarvis" Ben smirked at the look on the Avengers faces. "So just send the file to the league server and I'll retrieve it from there." Ben added.

Knocking himself out of his stupor, "Nothing's as good as Jarvis but go ahead" Tony responded before uploading the file to the conference table which was just a big touch screen connected to the Watchtowers systems. Tony knew that no AI was as good as Jarvis. He knew Ben's watch had some kind of computer that helps him transform and store aliens DNA but didn't think much of it.

Ben retrieved the file but instead displayed the one Trixx was almost done repairing. The others watched intrigued as random lines of code was seen on the screen before Processing 96% was displayed by Trixx. She had just added her own lines of codes and protocols to the firewalls of the watchtower to alert her if any intrusions were attempted and then displayed the repairing process. Ben requested her to develop some form of advanced anti-virus for them since an organization for good should not be hacked so easily as he had done. The others watched the screen as the process completed. Cyborg didn't detect anything abnormal since Trixx had earlier adapted to his coding language thus could easily manipulate his systems. That was what made Trixx and Azmuth special, they were both extremely smart and Trixx could adapt to any computing language, whether superior or inferior to her. The video started playing...

The same things happened from Iron man's video but this one was clearer and they could see the portal in the blinding light. They could also see the light extend to trap each of them then reel them in. The figure in the darkness was seen to be a male with a bearded face, slightly masculine physique. The face couldn't be seen clearly and after a few minutes of standing in the darkness, the figure disappeared then the room arranged itself removing any indication of the event.

"Interesting. It seems your departure was a secret and planned" Batman pointed out still looking at the footage which was on a loop.

"How did you do that?" Banner asked Ben clearly confused since he really didn't move or have a computer with him to clean the footage up much less access it.

Breaking out of their trances, the Avengers and some of the Justice league looked towards Ben. Batman grinned at Iron man who stayed still not uttering a word. If anyone would look at him they would think it was merely an empty Halloween costume.

"I cleaned it up, well... Trixx did it. She's my AI." Ben clarified.

"It's based in the watch." Batman told them, tired of the game Ben was playing with them.

"If it's based in the watch, how do you access it?" Green lantern asked Ben.

"That's for me to know and you to find out." Ben grinned.

"Ben!" Wonderwoman admonished seemingly tired of the game as well.

"You're lucky I have a hard time saying no to beautiful ladies." Ben smiled at Wonderwoman who in astonishment only felt a slight irritation like she always did at being called beautiful by other men and world leaders who would ogle her like a piece of meat unlike the other time when she was flustered. I wonder why she thought.

"My mind interfaced with the watch's Quantum computer and Trixx is its AI." Ben replied being as brief as possible.

"Did you say Quantum?" "Did you say your mind?" Tony and Banner asked respectively.

"Woah" Green lantern commented understanding the implication.

"So are you like Cyborg?" Shazam asked his gamer mind intrigued at the implication.

"No, we are not the same. My brain is the only thing Trixx interfaced with and nothing else." Ben replied looking at Shazam. He had noted his silence ever since meeting the league. He wasn't in any database that Trixx obtained, only in snapshots and videos civilians took of his rescue operations and that made Ben slightly curious about him. The league files didn't have anything concrete about him apart from being given the powers of many gods and his name. He had wondered how he ended up joining the league. Watching closely he noticed Black widow also checking out Shazam. It seems she had picked up on his silence too.

"That's why I couldn't hack your watch." Tony stated as a matter of fact. "And that's why you are able to override my codes multiple times, something no computer on earth can do." Added Cyborg his mechanical eye glowing red scanning Ben again, this time taking into account everything he knew about him and his watch. True to his words, he could see minute electrical signals and components in Ben's brain.

"Is your watch connected with you down to a molecular level?" Banner asked unexpectedly surprising Ben with the question. No one ever asked him that, it was either how many aliens do you have or how powerful is your watch, mostly those kind of questions.

"To remove it, I would have to be reduced down to my last atom." Ben replied actually impressed by Banner.

"Something you conveniently forgot to mention." Glared Black widow.

"Hey... You didn't ask... He asked" Ben shrugged a response.

"Does that mean you can see things like Cyborg or a robot?" Shazam asked.

"Yes, if I choose so." Ben replied vaguely.

"Wow! How much can-" the Flash started asking but was interrupted by Batman.

"How did you get here? And why weren't we alerted to your arrival like the Avengers?" Batman asked Ben. He mentally slapped himself for not thinking about it sooner. Ben had to have come from a high powered portal like the Avengers.

Ben instructed Trixx to trim their video and project it to them. The others watched Ben walk in the streets greeting and taking selfies with his fans then a Girl Scout selling cookies stopped him and asked him to make a purchase. While Ben was grabbing cash from his back pocket the girl waved her hand and a portal opened swallowing Ben with the Omnitrix systems temporarily getting glitch.

"My arrival in this earth happened at the same time the Avengers appeared thus the earths satellites concentrated at the port and didn't notice my arrival in the Amazon forest." Ben answered Batman.

"You arrived in the Amazon forest?" J'onn asked Ben. "So that's why I sensed a disturbance in the forest." He added knowing he had assumed the feeling for later until they had dealt with the Avengers at that time.

"Yeah, met a very welcoming guy there. You people really know how to welcome guests." His sarcastic tone was noted.

Batman looked alarmed for a moment turning his attention to Ben, "You met Swampthing." It was a statement more than a question.

"So that's his name." Ben said deep in thought. Immediately Ben heard his name Trixx pulled up the file on Swampthing available in the watchtower database while Ben quickly perused through it

"What did he want." Batman stated again.

"Just to kill me..I kind of destroyed some vegetation when I popped up." Ben shrugged and responded.

"Why didn't he?" Thor asked curious about the creature that protects the vegetation.

"I regrew the whole 100m wide clearing of burnt trees." Ben answered looking at Thor.

Sample is ready Trixx informed Ben of the Arsgadian sample recently acquired.

Good Ben thought.

"What do you mean you regrew it?" Superman asked.

"I have an alien form that's somehow similar to Swampthing." Ben replied knowing it would be enough but by the confused looks of the Avengers he continued.

"It can manipulate vegetation of any kind in the universe and apparently multiverse."

"Daaamn Hal, I was wrong. That is one cool watch." The flash quipped.

"Shut up" Hal murmured. Batman was silent. Thinking. He had seen firsthand how powerful Swampthing was by manipulating the green in vegetation yet Ben had one alien in so many sentient aliens with powers similar to Swampthing. How powerful is that watch he wondered looking at it on Ben's arm.

Sensing the sudden silence in the room, he disengaged Trixx's HUD and saw all of them looking at his watch already knowing what they were thinking.

"Yeah..there's only one in existence and you'll get used to it with time." He said to no one in particular making them to snap out of their thoughts.

"We need to figure out what is going on. All of this can't be a coincidence." Batman said looking at Cap. "We need to work together if we are ever going to get you back to your home planet."

"I agree, we'll share any Intel gathered between our groups." Black widow responded standing up from her seat moving to the front. Batman watched her coming up, each step calculated and with a poise of elegance with a hint of danger.

Looking at Cap, "As our guests, we'd like to extend an invitation to the Avengers to stay in the Watchtower and provide you with the necessary papers to use during your stay in this earth." Batman offered Cap.

"We're great full for the offer-" Cap started turning down Batmans offer but was interrupted by Wonderwoman. "Please, we insist."

"You want to keep an eye on us. Not so subtle, don't you think?" Black widow smirked at Batman.

"Subtlety is not our best suit." Responded batman narrowing his eyes at her.

"It won't be a problem. We'll just get a few of our belongings from our base. Just to be clear, we can return to our base anytime we want or better yet go anywhere." Black widow stated waiting for anyone specifically Batman to disagree.

"What's going on?" Green arrow asked the flash in hushed tones.

"I think we've just witnessed Batman flirting." Flash responded equally confused.

"It seems the news of your arrival has found its way to the other leaguers. I think we should put their minds at ease." Superman explained while tapping his ear indicating he was listening to something.

"They started pouring in one hour ago." Ben spoke up bringing up the CCTV feed of the hall next to the teleporters to the conference table projector.

"I see no reason why not since we will be staying here temporarily." Hawkeye responded standing up. He hated formal meetings where one sits for long periods of time. He liked it better when he was on his feet moving about.

"Follow me." Superman gestured to them moving out the door heading for the balcony overlooking the hall.

"I'm in need of a hot shower right about now." Wanda murmured to Black widow while following superman. Since arriving in this earth they all showered with cold water they trapped from the rain in the Amazon. They had furnished the cave to the best of their abilities but at the end it was still a cave in the jungle but the watchtower would be different. She hoped.

"You and me both." she whispered back.

"When will they arm wrestle?" Shazam asked Cyborg.

"I don't know. Don't push it." Cyborg responded warily hoping that superman won't hear their discussion.

"Why don't you ask them?" Iron man asked walking behind them. "Are you that eager to lose your money?" asked Thor overhearing the conversation.

Looking at Thor, "I may be many things Thor, but a loser isn't one of them." Iron man smugly replied.

Ben couldn't get in on the conversation because he was walking upfront with Cap and superman.

"I'm so going to Vegas after this whole thing blows over with the prize money." Green arrow commented already dreaming of the perfect vacation spot. Lots of criminals to take down while also losing a tone of money at the casinos. Not to mention the ladies...

"That's nothing. I'm going to a planet with sandy beaches and sceneries to die for." Green lantern responded.

"I believe that's not all there is to that sentence." Wonderwoman smirked at him.

Grinning, "There are also babes hotter than this month's Victoria secret magazine cover." Green lantern added making everyone sigh bringing an end to that discussion.

The Avengers and Ben saw the heroes gathered below in groups deep in discussion. Those that noticed their arrival were curiously eyeing them up then alerting their comrades of their presence.

Superman began introducing them.

Ben looked around at the throng of heroes and couldn't help but be impressed by their organization and how many people had powers on this planet. He noticed Batman talking to a bunch of heroines in a corner. There are plenty of attractive ladies on our planet. He thought to himself. The aforementioned league members are Black Canary, Vixen, Zatana, Huntress, and Supergirl. They are regarded as temporary members of the league and do not have permanent rooms in the watchtower. They are from a mission assigned by Batman. Trixx spoke out to Ben while presenting him the relevant files on the female heroes. Ben looked over them as Superman began their introductions. Does that make superman and Supergirl related or married? He asked Trixx after reading their files noticing that minute detail missing. They are related. Cousins. Supergirl arrived years after Supermans arrival having being stuck in a black hole for that long. Supergirl is from Kryptons sister planet ARGO that was shortly attacked by a being known as Brainiac after her departure. Trixx summarized for Ben. He attempted accessing the CCTV cameras next to the group to get a good look at the group Batman chose to personally go and explain to them whatever was happening. He couldn't see or hear anything clearly. The Camera was too far from the group in the corner. Interesting, he thought while making a mental note to introduce himself to them.

The other members of the Avengers were equally amazed at how many heroes they had who were currently in groups listening attentively to what superman asked. Cap noticed majority of the heroes slightly relax when Superman showed signs that they were not a threat by introducing themselves. Cap's many years of experience dealing with diplomatic issues noted how superman knew how to play the game. Every word that came out of his mouth seemed to have a calming effect on the heroes. Maybe they just respect him that much, he thought to himself.

"I bet they don't have that many villains." Iron man whispered to Thor after scanning the hall full of super heroes. "How do you figure?" Thor asked him trying his best to whisper, something he wasn't used to.

"Everyone's playing for the good team." He gestured to the crowd under them implying they would easily outnumber their enemies.

Thor looked down and around nodding seemingly agreeing with Tony's observation.

"Keep quiet" Black widow reprimanded the two heroes who stayed quiet the rest of the meeting.

The other founding league members stood behind the Avengers and Ben out of the spotlight watching what was happening.

"How can a god be scared of her?" Shazam whispered having witnessed what just went down. "I know right..! She doesn't even have powers." Green lantern pointed out the obvious.

"Are you not wary of Batman? Does he have any abilities?" J'onn questioned raising an eyebrow at them.

"That's different. He's BATMAN." Flash stressed out the last word. Everyone was afraid if not weary of Batman. Most of them speculated it's because of his mysterious personality. Ever since joining the league none of them have ever seen or heard him laugh, it was usually a smirk or a small smile which only Diana and Superman on rare occasions were lucky enough to be on the receiving end of it.

"She's Black widow." Hawkeye vaguely replied to the Flash having overheard the conversation. "Why do you think she's called that, Flash?" Hawkeye stressed his name and then to his satisfaction each of them turned to stare at Black widow, Hawkeyes hidden meaning sinking in.

"How is she a superhero?" Wonderwoman asked what they were all thinking about but uncertain to ask.

"We all have a past" was all Hawkeye said before turning to listen to what superman was saying.

"Their world seems pretty awesome." Green arrow commented to himself but everyone heard him.

Looking up, the ladies watched as Superman was introducing the group he had called the Avengers. "Daamn...I meant what I said..." Black canary turned to talk to the ladies before looking up at Captain America. "Let me have a crack at him." She mummured while biting her lips sexily at Cap who was focusing on what superman was saying to notice her among the heroes.

"Gross" chocked out Supergirl. "Is there anyone you won't ogle!?" Vixen rolled her eyes at her friend's behavior.

"Batman" she replied nonetheless. She was forced to explain when Batman turned to look at her. "I don't want to be pummeled into the ground" she put her hands up referring to the way Wonderwoman bumped Blackwidow into the container at the port.

Sighing, batman turned and disappeared around the corner. "Was it something I said?" Black canary asked the others who just looked at her shocked at their teammates behavior. "Superman said his name was Captain America, the leader of the group." Zatana spoke up. "I won't mind him being the captain of my-" she was cut short by Supergirls loud shriek.

"SHUT UP!" Which immediately turned all heads to her direction and finding her covering her mouth turning a bright shade of pink disbelieving that she just shouted when her cousin was addressing them.

The Avengers, Ben and superman traced the outburst to Supergirl who by the way she was turning a shade of red and covering her mouth was more embarrassed than any of them.

"I'm sorry" Supergirl apologized but didn't fail to see Black canary struggling to hold back her laughter. Vixen was chuckling. Only Huntress and Zatanna managed to maintain their professionalism at that point.

"As I was saying..." Superman continued when the attention was back on him. "They are our guests and you will see them out and about in the watchtower. They are not our enemies, miscommunication was the cause for the incident at the port. I believe you will respect and cooperate with them as you would any other league members..."

Supergirl glared at Black canary who had a mischievous smile while pretending to listen to what was being said. She had been planning for a long time on getting back at Supergirl for disclosing her actual age to the league founders when she had contracted a viral flu and was forced to quarantine in the medical bay. Sure it was understandable they needed that information in conjunction with others to safely calculate the correct doses of the vaccines they had at hand. How do you like being the center of attention now Black canary thought finally looking up at Supergirls narrowed eyes? Supergirl was the only one who knew her age since she accidentally picked up her Voters registration card from the floor in the cafeteria. Even though she healed from the ordeal it was still uneasy for her that Batman, Superman, Cyborg and J'onn knew her age.

Superman gave Captain America and Ben the chance to address the heroes but only Captain America accepted the offer. Ben refusing because he was never really good with public speaking. Back home Grandpa Max and Gwen did all the talking while him and Kevin preferred the smashing part of the gig. It was easier that way.

"My name is Captain America and these are my team mates, Ben, Iron man, Black widow, Thor, Wanda and Hawkeye." He said pointing to each of them.

"I know most of you have questions and we would be happy to answer all of them during our stay here. I know we will get along and do great work together. Thank you for your hospitality." Cap kept it brief and to the point before retreating back allowing superman to resume talking. After a few words Superman came to the conclusion of his speech.

Superman having finished addressing the league members, he dismissed the crowd of heroes. Some went to fill in their reports while others teleported away to wherever they usually go when not in the watchtower.

"I hate you." Supergirl told Black canary after they were dismissed. "No you don't" Black canary gave her the most innocent smile she could master.

"What's wrong with the two of you!?" Huntress chided. "If I'm placed on monitor duty because of you I will murder you in your sleep." Narrowing her eyes at them angrily.

Monitor duty was not her favorite hobby and everyone did it, temporary members included.

"Easy there tigress. No one's getting monitor duty form that little outburst. I believe superman heard what she said." Vixen said pointing to Black canary.

"I don't see what you're all worried about. Monitor duty is okay for me." Zatana commented. "Sitting around all day isn't that bad." She added.

"That's because you haven't been on one with Glowy over there." Black canary replied pointing to Hal while cringing at the thought of it. Green lantern has always been the flirt of the league. He had hit on every female super hero at one point from the time they joined, especially when the said female was on monitor duty with him.

"As a matter of fact, I have, but he behaves ever since I turned him into a frog." Zatana replied chuckling a bit at the memory.

"Now that is a story I'd love to hear about." They all looked to the side to see where the new voice originated from.

Ben had moved to the lower level heading to the group of ladies who were deep in conversation to notice his approach. Curious glances were directed at him from the members he wasn't able to greet due to them being a bit far from him. Some heroines let their gazes over Ben's form linger a little too long further boosting his ego. Ben was no stranger to attention but he couldn't think much of it before due to him dating Julie which he eventually messed up as he always did by not being "compassionate enough" of her feelings as his cousin Gwen put out.

As he approached the group, he studied them before joining in. Black canary was stunning, with sparkling blue eyes and long blond hair that fell beyond her shoulders. She wore a skin-tight costume that resembled a female swimming costume, as well as a black leather jacket that covered part of her upper body.

Zatana opted for a more formal appearance. She wore a black hat with a blue stripe across it, a blue tuxedo, a white shirt, and a bow tie. She resembled one of those attractive CEO bosses of a corporation, with her curves prominently shown and a black wand as her favorite possession.

Vixen's superhero suit has a more classic motif. She had a chocolate complexion that matched her complete orange body suit, which showed off a lot of cleavage, which Ben didn't mind, and a necklace, earring, and belt made of sharp tiger canine teeth. Being a model in her civilian life attested to her beauty.

The huntress wore a skin-tight outfit that was carefully cut at particular points to promote flexibility and make it fashionable while highlighting her curves. It was designed with purple and white stripes with a utility belt similar to Batman's but with fewer devices. She also wore a black mask to conceal her identify. She was one of the most beautiful ladies in the watchtower, but her no-nonsense approach discouraged any hero from pursuing any connection with her, which she was content with, forcing her to focus on her duties.

Supergirl wore a blue top that was cut low, revealing her belly button and a very flat tummy, which Ben couldn't help but admire with a symbol of hope, exactly like her cousin Superman. She had golden hair that reached her shoulders and blue eyes. She wore a red little skirt that was much over her knee and showed a lot of silky thigh, which Ben found himself admiring again, along with red boots and a red cloak. She was stunning. How can such lovely ladies be so strong and intimidating? Ben reflected as he examined them one last time before joining them.

Hearing the last snippets of Zatanas sentence he found the smoothest way into their conversation startling them.

The females' gaze was fixed on Ben, who stood a meter away. They spotted a young man with dark wavy hair, approximately 23 or 24 years old. He had blue irises that contrasted with the white of his eyes, prominent cheek bones with well-defined muscles that were plainly evident through his shirt, and teeth as white as snow that he used to send them his most charming smile. He wasn't as buff as Superman or Batman, but he wasn't as slim either, striking the right balance between the two. His shirt had a green line running from his shoulders to the belt of his trousers, and it appeared to have done him justice. On his arm was an obscenely huge watch that, when compared to the customary watches men wore for flaunting or formal purposes, was far too enormous. His fingers gripped the green jacket on his shoulders, causing his biceps to pop out, much to the joy of the heroines. He appeared to be a model at the pinnacle of his career.

"Hello, my name is Ben. It's a pleasure to finally meet you." Ben's salutation jolted them out of their trance long enough for the Huntress to respond on their behalf. Supergirl, Vixen, Zatana, and Black Canary applauded Huntress inwardly for answering, which made them look less like zombies by the way they were staring. "Huntress..." she murmured, extending her hand to Ben, who eagerly shook it before continuing. "Supergirl, Zatana, Vixen and Black canary." She concluded by pointing to her teammates. "The pleasure is all ours." The black canary smiled at Ben. "So you're the one making me miss my beauty sleep." Black canary gestured to her watch before gazing at Ben. Black canary gave out a groan from being punched at the side by Zatana who was screaming what the f*ck at her via her exasperated look.

"I'm sorry but it wasn't our intention to hold you all up. This matter had to be settled sooner rather than later." Ben replied smiling at Black canary's abrasiveness and lack of filters.

"It's okay, from the meeting we can all put the past behind us and concentrate on working together in the foreseeable future." Vixen dismissed his worry.

"Where are you from, I believe I've never seen any of you before. Are you new to the superhero world?" Vixen added after a moment of thought. The others seemed to be in agreement with her by the way they all turned to Ben waiting for his answer.

"I'm from another world. Just got here a few days ago." Ben answered smiling knowing this is the part most people freak out. He assumed they understood the concept of dimension traveling because of not getting any reaction from them after a couple of seconds.

Huntress was about to comment but was interrupted by the loud laugh emanating from Black canary. "Good one." She said through chuckles finally calming down.

"You almost had me there." Black canary told Ben before parting his back then began walking away.

"It's the least I could do for depriving you of your beauty sleep.." he said to a wandering Black Canary, implying he was lying before turning to look at the remaining heroines, his gaze falling on Supergirl, who had been silent the entire time just observing. "Not that you need it." He continued by flashing his white teeth, causing Supergirl to blush slightly.

Supergirl didn't know what to say when he arrived, and when she did, one of her teammates beat her to it. She was satisfied to keep silent until Ben turned his attention to her, catching her completely off guard with his comment, despite the fact that it was intended for all of them.

"Well...we should be heading out. The cities won't protect themselves. I'm sure we'll be seeing more of each other." Vixen said as she was pushing Zatana out of the group leaving Huntress, Supergirl and Ben.

"You weren't lying, were you?" Supergirl asked Ben referring to his comment of coming off world. Unlike the others, she knew she came from a different planet so she was open to the idea plus she was listening to his heartbeat to detect any deceit.

"Nope. We are from different earths. I'm not part of the Avengers though." Ben explained further to the two of them seeing as they were inclined to believe him.

"But it's Hush Hush for now. No one needs to know that detail yet." Added Ben revealing he had told them a secret.

Supergirl looked at him in awe while the Huntress just looked on. "Are you telling me the multiverse theory is real? That there are various earths vibrating at different frequencies from each other resulting to the differences in the earths and are doppelgängers on every earth?" She sounded excited while Huntress merely rolled her eyes. Supergirl was a kind of nerd but rarely showed it unless she was with Dr Christine, their oncall doctor or any other scientist.

"Is there a prime earth? Is it this one? I doubt because the prime earth would consist of all doppelgängers but we don't have yours. Is yours the pri-" she was cut short when she noticed Ben staring her with an amused expression while Huntress was smiling. She blushed a deep shade of red at her rambling before finding the disappearing groups more interesting than Ben and Huntress.

Ben found her rambling cute more so when she blushed.

"The multiverse is very real but I've only been to a couple of them each somehow different than the other. From the technologies to the evolution of our species. I've never been to the prime earth but I was told that it exists and its location is a secret known only to a few throughout the universe and multiverse." Ben explained to Supergirl knowing that she would be able to figure out why its location is a secret. Judging by the way she was nodding deep in thought it seems his assumption was correct.

"Why don't you want anyone else knowing?" Huntress asked curiously.

"If people knew they were from a different earth, it could cause a panic that would no doubt not dissipate until they return to their worlds." Supergirl answered her friend on Ben's behalf. She enjoyed talking about all things science and data collection.

"That's right. We wouldn't want to be viewed as the enemies again." Ben agreed with Supergirl who looked proud of getting the right answer.

The huntress was quiet for some seconds before deciding she had heard enough for the day.

"It was really nice talking to you but I've got to head out. It's getting pretty late and I'm sure all the accommodations are taken in the watchtower given the impromptu meeting." Huntress said while holding out her hand to Ben.

"I'll go with you. I'm tired of flying anyway." Supergirl added also bidding Ben goodbye.

"Oh...yes at times I forget about sleeping too. I wouldn't want to hold you much longer. Goodnight Huntress... Supergirl" Ben said lingering a little too long on Supergirls hand.

"It was great meeting you." Ben said making Supergirl blush while Huntress merely rolled her eyes before dragging Supergirl along leaving Ben to look at their retreating forms.

"This earth keeps getting better and better." He murmured to himself before walking away towards his assigned quarters in a secluded wing of the watchtower where the founding leaguers were also set up.

The Avengers had gone to retrieve some of their supplies that they would use in the temporary stay in the watchtower while one of them remained in the cave to keep things updated much like monitor duty which they would also take turns in doing.

Batman offered them one of the space ships but they politely declined knowing it probably had a GPRS system that would be tracked back to their base. They teleported to New York before Tony summoned their jet which he bought with the stash of large cash he kept in his suit for league was also turning in for the night, The Question still on monitor duty.

"Do you think we did the right thing in letting them stay here?" Superman asked batman who had joined him in front of the huge glass wall which showed the vastness of space.

"Only time will tell. We need to find out everything we can about them." Batman replied both of them thinking of the fight at the port.

Superman merely nodded understanding Batmans strategy.

"Shouldn't you be heading back by now? It's been five days without you getting any rest." Batman suggested to Superman a smirk appearing on his face.

"It's what I wanted to talk to you about. In case I don't make it back, my suit should be returned to the rightful owner." Superman said with a straight face locking eyes with Batman who was equally serious.

"I'll deliver it myself." Bruce responded smiling at superman who was chuckling with a hint of nervousness in his voice.

"Thanks. I will greatl-" he stopped talking suddenly picking up something from Batmans cape.

Bringing it up to Batman, they observed it. "What is it?" asked a slightly alarmed Batman.

"I think it's a bug. A low beeping sound was emanating from it." Superman explained how he came to notice it.

Using his super vision, he noticed something engraved in its tiny body.

"There's an engraving of a spider on its body work. Do you know who would want to bug you?" Superman asked as his mind scanned all their enemies on who would have the resources to develop such a technical bug and also get close enough to batman and plant it since it was impossible for anyone other than speedsters.

Looking up at batman, he could tell he was suppressing an impressed smile before taking the bug.

"Don't worry about it. I believe you have bigger issues to deal with than this. I'll take care of it." Batman said vaguely knowing superman would understand him. They had been team mates for a long time now and knew each other well enough. Bruce would call them friends but if asked he would totally deny having any friends. He was too busy for that kind of thing.

"You're right. I'll come back as soon as I can. If anything comes up make sure-" superman started. "I will." came Batmans voice walking away with the bug in hand while Superman floated away heading to the hanger doors.

"Impressive" he said still looking at the bug. It wasn't easy to plant a bug or any form of espionage equipment on him or his tools so she was definitely highly trained if she managed to do it in the few seconds they had interacted with him knowing he hadn't come into any contact with her.

Reaching into his utility belt he retrieved a tablet that was beeping with Disconnected flashing on the screen. Grinning, he tucked both the tablet and the bug into the utility belt then headed for the teleporter.

A few days ago days ago, Apokolips airspace

"Status report!" Ebony Maw commanded their pilots.

One moment they were traveling through space and then the next a bright white light engulfed the whole ship which had transported them to this unknown airspace of this unknown world. All the readings they had read Unknown from the name of the planet to the sector they were.

At the time of the attack, he had been with his master who had called all his children to inform them on their next destination. His master had been eliminating half of the civilizations in every planet he could find in order to achieve balance in the universe which he claimed was getting overcrowded and running out of resources.

He had attempted to create a dome of magic around them as barrier against the lights effects thinking that it was some kind of bomb attack which turned out to be half true. The light merely disintegrated the shield and engulfed all of them within seconds.

After collecting themselves Ebony Maw headed to the bridge to find out what happened while the rest of his master's children remained with him in case there was an attack.

"The ship was pulled into a black hole which brought us to this pocket space. The scanners are indicating life forms in the nearest planet. What are the orders sir?" The pilot asked referring to their master.

"Which planet is it" Came the voice of their master from inside the room which by the tone of it demanded answers... The ship was too big to walk to anywhere so they used teleporters to get around fast.

Everyone in the bridge stood up and bowed as the master stepped forward looking at the planet through the huge glass at the bridge.

"The planet is unknown sir, none of our databases have any information concerning this sector. What are your orders Master?" Ebony Maw humbly asked.

"You will go and find out what lies within the planet. If there is a vast population living there, we will do as we have always done. Create a balance in the universe." His master declared looking at the vastness of space and the planet that seemed to be on fire without actually burning up.

"Thank you master, I shall not fail you." Ebony Maw responded with his head raised high while heading for one of the pods to drop into the planet followed by one drone for visual purposes. All of his master's children found it an honor to conquer worlds for their master. This time will be no different to the rest of the times one of them did a reconnaissance on a planet before conquering it.

"Sire, should we engage?" Kalibak asked the ruler of Apokolips who was deep in thought.

"Keep a close eye on the ship." If something changes, I must be notified promptly." Darkseid replied in a harsh tone. Darkseid's decisions were anything but impulsive. Only a few space ships in the cosmos dared to invade Apokolips' airspace, and those were beings of equal or more strength than him, for attacking Apokolips meant certain death. Given the size of their spacecraft, Darkseid understood it was either lost travelers or an invasion group, but they would all be forced to join his parademon army soon. Kalibak rose and bowed before hurrying towards the throne room exit.

As he was about to leave, Steppenwolf rushed in, almost colliding with him, causing him to roar a warning at Steppenwolf, who shrugged it off before walking to Darkseid's throne and kneeling on one knee. Kalibak was interested as to what had caused Steppenwolf to be so agitated that he entered the throne room without making himself known, something Darkseid despised, as demonstrated by the crimson flames erupting from his eyes, preparing to vaporize his uncle with the omega beams.

"Sire, a reconnaissance pod from the ship traveling to Apokolips was launched. Should I try to intercept it? I'll bring you the head of whoever dared to assault Apokolips." Steppenwolf announced, bending his head low, fearful that the omega beams would collide at any moment.

Hushed murmurs were heard from the furies stationed all over the throne room discussing what kind of torture they would try out with their soon to be new subjects.

Looking at Kalibak who had returned to the room following Steppenwolf, "Plan a course of intercept and bring me the scout." He instructed Kalibak much to Steppenwolfs dismay as he had been eager to go and bring back the intruder to please his nephew though he couldn't really say anything lest he ended up having being melted to the bone by the omega beams which was a rather painful experience to heal from.

"Kalibak" Darkseid called out to him before he existed. "I want it alive." Was all he said before Kalibak bowed and exited taking a few parademons with him?

Interesting Darkseid thought. Whoever this was seemed to have no idea where they were for them to send a scout pod to his planet making him think it was probably some space travelers touring the universe. I wonder if they have worthy warriors or valuable artifacts to add to my personal collection he thought already brainstorming what kind of enhancements he would experiment with. A challenge his scientific mind was eager to embark on. Being an all-powerful war lord, he had little to do since his armies handled almost everything which left him to his own devices and the sadistic tortures he conducted to parademons.

"What kind of wasteland planet is this!?" Ebony Maw asked himself as he surveyed what looked like a large hole spewing out huge torrents of blazing flames every few minutes. The land planet looked deserted except for the cloud of dust seemingly approaching his current location, he wasn't sure. The heat from the blazing flames and pit made it a little difficult to concentrate his senses.

"Heads up, you've got incoming hostiles fast approaching from the east of your position." Nebula warned him via his ear piece.

"Noted" Ebony Maw acknowledged then proceeded to cast protection spells on himself. He wasn't as durable as most of his team members but his spells were also very useful from time to time.

Conquering whatever civilization resides in this place will be too easy. Then we can move on to Earth. He thought as he started floating away from the spitting pit of fire.

"Father, they've sent a group to intercept Ebony Maw. Shall we intervene?" Gamora asked her father who was also observing the monitor screen that was connected to the drone which had zoomed onto the oncoming hostiles.

Speaking without turning or moving an inch," Nebula, head down" her father commanded her. "Thank you father, your will be done." Nebula replied while bowing her head and heading to the pods.

"Take a few chitauri with you." Her father commanded just in case they would need some back up down there not that his children couldn't handle themselves but just to get this over with fast.

Kalibak saw the intruder floating towards them and stopped a few feet from them making them to stop. Kalibak jumped down landing with a loud THUD! Then walked a few meters towards the intruder then came to a stop.

"Rejoice, for you have been chosen to become prisoners of my great Master for you will be dismissed from this pathetic existence of yours." Ebony Maw announced to Kalibak while spreading his arms out indicating the harsh environments around them.

Kalibak looked at him for some few seconds then burst out laughing, something that he didn't do but that statement was just too absurd and funny.

The parademons looked at their general as if he was crazy since Darkseid did not condone anyone playing about or having fun in any way unless torture was in the picture.

Ebony Maw clenched his fists in rage at the soon to be dead person laughing at his master's cause and in turn laughing at him.

"Granny is going to love having you...she might even give me one of her furies as a gift." Kalibak announced to Ebony Maw. Tales of granny's experiments were wildly known throughout the universe due to the perverseness of some of them. She was wanted dead or alive by many organizations in the universe, The Green lantern were among the top dogs who issued a warrant for her arrest with a huge reward but no one was brave or stupid enough to try and capture her for they ended up either captured or dead by her hands.

Rumors spread around everywhere about a bounty hunter who nearly succeeded in catching her while she went on vacation. The Czarnian bounty hunter was the most feared because of his brutality and insistence on always receiving his bounty, one way or another, no matter how long it took. The two fought long and hard, eventually destroying half the planet and most of the furies Granny went with for personal protection, all of whom were killed by the bounty hunter's hand. It took all of the remaining furies' might to keep the bounty hunter at bay long enough for them to blow themselves up in order to defend their mother as she fled back to Apokolips. Ever since then she has never left Apokolips.

"Fool! Surrender now so that your people may not suffer for your lack of respect!" Ebony Maw commanded making Kalibak look at him somehow confused.

"Do you know whose empire you're threatening? You're merely an insect compared to us. I've been instructed to take you in alive for questioning but I wasn't told the state in which to bring you in." Kalibak told Ebony Maw while walking towards him cracking his fists already tired of this form of disrespect.

Ebony Maw was smart enough to heed the warning but even the most powerful empires (he thought of the Kree Empire) had surrendered to his masters will and this world will do the same. He extended his hand and waved Kalibak away sending him flying into the hover crafts they used. The parademons attacked the moment Kalibak was thrown away by the intruder.

"Incompetent fools" Ebony Maw muttered at the group of parademons flying towards him. A few meters from him, he snapped his fingers instantly turning all of them to dust which blew past him as they floated with the wind.

Kalibak seeing this, he attacked unleashing all the fury he had. He would be damned if he allowed a minuscule figure like this to embarrass him when his father was clearly watching what was going on.

Ebony Maw saw him jump towards him with a fist raised ready to smash him but he didn't move, instead he waited for him to get closer. A few meters from him he snapped his fingers repeating what he did to the parademons but nothing happened. He snapped again but nothing happened. Looking up, he saw the fury in Kalibaks face before being punched so hard that he went tumbling down like a rocket creating a crater where he landed. Had it not been for the protection spell he had cast, he would be gravely injured by now. Kalibak stood at the beginning of the crater looking down at the intruder who appeared to have broken a few things in his body.

Groaning in pain, Ebony Maw muttered a spell which instantaneously healed him from any injuries then stood up to face the brute that attacked him still wondering why his magic didn't work.

Kalibak saw the calculative stare directed at him and smirked. "Something I picked up in Kadana." Referring to his ability to block magic from affecting him. They had conquered the magic infused planet a while back and forced them to teach them all about magic and how to block them. "I didn't think a tiny creature like you had the gift of magic but no matter, I will teach you why we call our home Apokolips." Kalibak finished before charging at the intruder.

Ebony Maw knew he was fucked the moment his magic could not work on his attacker. Sure he knew how to fight, all his masters' children knew, but how long could he keep up with this brute who was far from tiring out. His occupied mind made him miss a step giving Kalibak an opening to end the intruder who had raised his hands to minimize the damage caused by the thrown punch towards him.

Ebony Maw waited for the hit with closed eyes but it didn't connect instead he felt slight wind then heard Kalibak grunting. Opening his eyes he saw five chitauri soldiers fighting against Kalibak who was killing them one by one brutally.

"Your welcome." Nebula spoke from behind him.

"I had it under control." Ebony Maw responded pissed that he had been helped therefore making him seem weak in front of his master.

Kalibak killed all the chitauri before ten more moved forward to attack him but they were intercepted by a group of parademons who had come to his aid along with Big Barda who was sent by Granny goodness at the order of lord Darkseid.

Nebula narrowed her eyes at the new comers who were engaged in a brutal fight with their minions.

"What are you doing here!" Kalibak demanded. Rolling her eyes at Kalibaks big egotistical ass, "Clearly your strategy wasn't working at all." She replied with a smirk. On Apokolips one could say that Kalibak was feared more than Darkseid due to his unpredictable temper and willingness to do anything to please his father which made him so much dangerous, but Big Barda feared no one except Darkseid and Granny goodness.

Barda shoved Kalibak aside, allowing the electroshock batons to pass in between them, changing their direction and returning to Nebula's arm.

Nebula had noticed their moment of distraction which lead to her throwing her batons at high speed which intended to decimate anyone in its path but they had dodged to the side which surprised her for a moment. The only other person apart from her father obviously to have dodged this kind of attack from her was her sister Gamora during their sparing matches.

Getting up, Barda and Kalibak were equally angry at being ambushed like that which was dishonorable for a warrior.

"I'm going to take you apart piece by piece" Barda spoke looking at Nebula who was cool, looking at her smirking. She fired a blast from her mega rod at them which The Maw easily deflected by throwing one parademons o its path using his telekinesis before all hell broke loose.

Nebula attacked Barda, each of them demonstrating tremendous talent from years of training and fighting. Barda deflected every punch thrown at her while delivering her own. Barda dove down to escape Nebula's fist, which she could extend with her cybernetic hands, while the giant rod extended to create a long staff, which she used to sweep Nebula's legs off the ground, causing her to fall with a crash. Moving quickly to finish off her opponent, she leapt at her with the intention of driving the fully charged mega rod through her head but was easily intercepted by Nebulas own hand which extended to a long rod shooting a powerful blast of electro shock at Barda which sent her flying into a parademon killing it on the spot and her landing on her back a few feet away still shaking from the aftershocks but with a smile on her face when she pulled herself up.

Wiping a smudge of blood from her mouth, "Not bad...finally someone worthy of my time. I'm going to enjoy this." Was all she said before charging at Nebula again?

"Bring it on bitch!" Nebula responded before meeting Barda head on both of their agility working against each other.

Not too far away The Maw was having a hard time evading Kalibaks blows since his telekinesis or magic couldn't work against him. The Maw tripped on a dead parademons body losing his balance and stumbling a bit. He couldn't fly because the sky was filled with chitauri and parademons fighting. Noticing his slip, proceeded to leap at him with a blow meant to knock him out.

A large hammer impacted on Kalibaks chest sending him flying into some chitauri and parademons fighting before him landing creating a minor crater. Cull Obsidian had arrived to assist his brother who had already steadied himself and wiped out a few parademons with a flick of his wrist giving the chitauri some breathing space.

"Aaaaaaaargh!" Kalibak roared before charging at them knocking anything in his path. Obsidian charged past the Maw intercepting Kalibak with their fists colliding creating a minor shockwave that sent the few parademons and chitauri fighting nearby flying away. The impact knocked Obsidian's hammer out of his hand landing a few feet away from the two brutes who were attempting to knock each other out by the sheer force of their blows.

Obsidian threw a right hook directed at Kalibaks face which he caught with his left hand. Kalibak caught his left hook too each trying to overpower the other. Kalibak noticed his opponent straining then smirked before head-butting him with such power that brought Obsidian to his knees by breaking the said knees from the force of it but it soon started healing due to his healing abilities.

Kalibak was thrown upward and backwards by an uppercut delivered by Obsidian who took advantage of his opponent's momentary lapse in judgement when he thought that he was done for from the headbutt before roaring and charging at him again their fight far from over.

The Maw decimated every parademon around leaving room for the rest of the chitauri to go and help Nebula and Obsidian against the others. Floating towards Nebulas fight, he froze Barda midair when she leapt at Nebula after blasting her with the mega rod.

The Maw gritted his teeth at the amount of effort and concentration it took to hold Barda in place.

"Nebula, NOW!" he shouted to his adoptive sister.

Nebula pushed herself up charging her electroshock batons at full power before launching them at Barda who was still struggling against the hold on her. Being a New god, she was extremely powerful and durable making her confident that she would survive anything thrown at her but it would probably hurt like hell.

Barda braced herself for the impact she knew was inevitable since all the parademons were defeated and Kalibak had his hands full dueling with the other guy or beast, it was hard for her to differentiate whether he was a beast or man at the moment.

A large explosion knocked Barda back to the ground from the powerful wave formed from the impact, the force eliciting a minor earthquake releasing her from the hold on her. Nebula and the Maw wondered what the hell happened with Nebulas technologically enhanced sight scanning the area noticing an axe had collided with her batons with both of them on the ground having lost all momentum from the impact.

Steppenwolf had just joined the fray recalling his hammer back to his hand.

"What are you doing here!" Kalibak demanded coming to stop beside him. Kalibak had managed to beat down Obsidian and break his spine temporarily knocking him out but before delivering the final blow they were separated by the shock wave that emerged from Nebulas batons and Steppenwolf's axe colliding. Steppenwolf narrowed his eyes at Kalibaks tone clenching his fists.

"Stand down" came an authoritative base voice from above making both of them to instantly kneel down in submission. Barda also bowed and knelt down as a show of respect and submission to her master who for some reason deemed these people were worthy of his presence in battle, a thing that rarely happened in all the wars they had been involved in.

"Sire, forgive me" came Steppenwolfs desperate plea.

"Father, I humbly ask you to let us handle these miscreants for you. We will bring back their heads. None shall oppose the will off-"

"SILENCE!" Darkseid cut his son off floating above them with Stompa and Lashina on two hovercrafts behind their master.

Nebula, the Maw, and a now-healed Obsidian all kept a close eye on what was going on, wary and on high alert. Something about the people that joined the battle made them uneasy and apprehensive, which they hadn't felt in a long time. A huge figure floated over their opponents, effortlessly matching their master's physique. He was tall, with cracked rock-like skin that covered his entire body, and he wore blue armor with gold highlights and a crimson chest piece in the center. His intense blood red eyes that seemed to be on fire and were watching them with interest were the most noticeable feature about him, not his fractured rock-like body or his bald head.

"Not many people in my many years of conquest have peaked my interest like you lot have. I admire your spirit. With proper training you could join my legion of destroyers. All you have to do is bow." Darkseid said with a threatening low voice looking at Nebula, the Maw and Obsidian.

Instead of trembling with fear or considering his proposal, the trio stood their ground then Nebula stepped forward clenching her fists in fury at this creatures offer. She serves no one but her father.

"In the name of my father, we will cleanse this pitiful world." You must surrender immediately in order for your deaths to be quick and painless." Nebula spoke calmly, her gaze fixed on Darkseid's blazing glowing eyes. She'd seen too many warlords and emperors who fought against her father's cause only to be driven into submission, and she's not going to cower to another self-proclaimed god, not that she was terrified to begin with. Looking around, she noticed her brothers were likewise enraged by the entity's assertion, particularly the one about being given the opportunity to be better taught. Silently communicating with the Maw, she extended her hand towards their opponents making the remaining chitauri attack before their back up, which she knew wasn't long now would descend upon this pitiful planet.

Darkseid watched the trio communicate silently before the mechanically enhanced female warrior commanded their soldiers to attack. It's a shame that such useful talent has to be banished from this existence, no matter, I shall put their heads on a spike in space as examples he thought as he watched the creatures near their position. None of Darkseid's minions moved an inch from where they were kneeling face down or standing as in the case of Stompa and Lishna.

Ebony Maw watched for any reaction from their opposing forces when the chitauri were charging at them but found none which made him weary of the situation and looking at Nebula who had apparently noticed the same thing tensing a little.

Darkseid waited until the first creature was a stone throw away from him before unleashing a low but intensified wave of omega beam aimed to destroyed the creatures and possibly kill the trio while the one who survived would undergo bio mechanical enhancements which would submit them to his will by sheer force. Darkseid could alter the intensity of his omega beams to perform a variety of actions that was what made it more dangerous.

The trio watched Darkseid's flaming blood red eyes emit a beam that moved way too fast executing corners slicing through and disintegrating the chitauri while never loosing intensity heading for them. It moved so fast for any of them to actually make a move before the beams collided with them eliciting steam from the constant supply of omega beams which turned into a small fog covering the area the trio were standing at before the omega beams receded.

Kalibak, Steppenwolf and Barda raised their heads to marvel at their sires once again victory but were not prepared for what they saw.

They saw a hulking brute physically the size of their sire, he wore gold plated armor over his body and a helmet of sort on his head. His skin was purple in color while his eyes remained calm and stoic. His hand held a large double sided edged sword which was extended in front of the trio stopping the omega beams in place while the trio had merely backed away abit from the force of the hit. The edge of the sword where the omega beam hit had a few scratch marks from the hit but other than that it was completely unfazed from it as its user was.

Thanos looked back at his children scanning if they were harmed from the hit of the beams. He retracted his hand and the sword then fully turned to face Darkseid and his forces. He felt the power behind the beam fired at his children and knew should it have connected with its intended target none of them could have survived such a hit. That hit alone told Thanos all he had to know. This being rivaled him in sheer power evidenced by his cool demeanor at his beam being stopped by him. No matter, this world shall fall like the rest of them.

The two powerhouses studied each other for minutes, all of them encased in silence with only the roaring flames from the pits being heard from a distance. Kalibak, Steppenwolf, Barda, Stompa, Lishna, Nebula, Ebony Maw, Cul Obsidian, Gamora, Proxima Midnight and Corvus Glaive all stood silent waiting for their respective master's order to attack.

Darkseid watched Thanos with interest. The omega beam destroyed everything in its path to the target yet this being seemed unfazed just like the sword he wielded giving him a revelation that the being was as powerful as he is even if by a less percentage which he wasn't sure. But all who invaded Apokolips never left alive and that was not about to change any time soon