Aboard the Thanagarian Kragger's Dreadnought
The command deck of the massive warship was filled with nervous energy as on the main viewer screens soon lit up, revealing the stern visages of the Thanagarian High Elder Council and the general Talak. Commander Kragger, his wings tucked tightly against his back, knelt before the imposing figures. Sweat beaded on his brow, his heart racing as he prepared to deliver news about his encounter and losses during the capture of Wonder Woman.
"Report, Commander," the lead councilman's voice cut through the air like a blade. "What news of the Earth champion's capture?"
Kragger swallowed hard, his voice barely above a whisper. "Honored Council, the target... Wonder Woman... she's been neutralized. But the cost..."
"Cease your stammering and give us facts, soldier!" another councilman barked.
"We... we lost 70% of our crew in the engagement," Kragger admitted, his words hanging heavy in the air.
A deafening silence fell over the chamber. Then, like a dam bursting, the council erupted.
"SEVENTY PERCENT? Against a single primitive Earthling?" The elder councilman's face contorted with rage and disbelief. "Kragger, what manner of incompetence is this?"
Kragger's eyes darted nervously as he continued. "Honored Council, she was... beyond anything we've encountered. Her power, her speed... our calculations and forces were woefully inadequate. The devastation she wrought before her capture was... unprecedented."
Kragger then played the footage of their battle with Wonder Woman. Despite his shame at revealing his failure and disheveled state, he knew he had to demonstrate her immense power. Only then would the council truly grasp why it had cost so many of his crew to subdue this single warrior.
The council members exchanged uneasy glances, their arrogance crumbling in the face of Wonder Woman's awe-inspiring display of power. After a tense silence, the lead councilman leaned forward, his eyes smoldering with renewed resolve and thinly veiled disdain.
"This changes everything," the lead councilman snarled, his eyes blazing with fury. "The hyperspace bypass is crucial to our survival against the Gordanian threat. These insignificant Earthlings dare to obstruct Thanagar's destiny? They shall face the full consequences of their foolish defiance!"
His voice dropped to a menacing growl. "No more pretending to be allies. It's time we unleash our empire's full might upon these primitives. We'll crush their spirits, shatter their heroes, and grind their resistance to cosmic dust."
"And their so-called champions?" A cruel smile twisted his features. "They've proven unexpectedly useful in accelerating our plans. Once we've broken their will, their effectiveness in constructing the bypass will be unparalleled. We'll harness their power, molding them into the ultimate labor force."
He slammed his fist on the arm of his chair, eyes glinting with malice. "Let this serve as an example to all who would defy Thanagar. From the ashes of their world, our empire will emerge stronger than ever!"
Turning to address another figure on a separate screen, his voice adopted a tone of icy command. "General Talak, you have full authorization. Deploy every ship, soldier, and weapon at your disposal. Their mightiest defender lies in chains—they have no hope of true resistance. Crush them swiftly and utterly. By the time the Council arrives with our main fleet, I expect that world to be kneeling in subjugation, ready for the bypass activation. This is how we end the Gordanian war—with the absolute triumph of Thanagarian supremacy!"
A chorus of agreement echoed through the chamber, but one voice cut through the uproar.
General Talak bowed his head, accepting his new orders. With a cold glint in his eyes and a vicious smile, he nodded. "It shall be done, Honorable Council. I'll ensure this world is ready to serve its new masters until its last breath."
Just then, Commander Thal, known for his strategic mind, stepped into view on a separate screen. "Honored Council, if I may... Perhaps we should reassess. If one Earth champion could inflict such damage—"
"Silence, you sniveling coward!" the lead councilman roared, cutting him off. "We've indulged your schemes out of respect for past victories, despite the council's misgivings about such a cowardly approach. But now, enough! Your concerns are noted, Thal, but we can't afford to waver. The Gordanians loom ever closer to our homeworld. We shall proceed as planned—with overwhelming force."
Thal frowned slightly, nodding in reluctant agreement. Despite his reservations, he knew better than to voice further objections. Still, a nagging sense of unease lingered in the back of his mind.
The lead councilman, noting Thal's compliance with a curt nod, swiveled his piercing gaze back to Kragger. The commander visibly wilted under its intensity.
"Commander, rally what remains of your forces," the councilman ordered. "You'll serve as General Talak's second-in-command. Thanagar's full might now descends upon Earth. We shall crush their resistance, construct our bypass, and claim our destined triumph over the Gordanians. For Thanagar!"
The chamber erupted in a chorus of "For Thanagar!" as the screens winked out, leaving only Kragger and General Talak to plan and issue the command for the rest of their armada to descend.
Meanwhile, deep within the dreadnought, a figure stirred in the darkness of a high-security prison. The decoy—an illusion of Wonder Woman crafted from a blend of magic and a trace of Rachel's soul essence—snapped its eyes open, a faint smile playing at the corners of her lips. The Thanagarians had no idea that their "prisoner" was exactly where she wanted to be. With an ominous circle of dark fire swirling in her eyes, she watched from the shadows, relaying information back to Raven. and awaiting the command to blow this ship to kingdom come.
DOD Command Center - The Eve of Battle
The command center crackled with tension as the analyst's voice cut through the silence. "General Swanwick, sir, we've detected movement from the Thanagarian armada. They're... they're descending towards Earth as anticipated."
A collective intake of breath swept through the room. Despite their preparations, the reality of alien warships bearing down on their planet sent a chill through even the most seasoned officers. General Swanwick, however, remained a pillar of calm amid the storm. Just hours earlier, the Justice League had informed him of the Thanagarians' betrayal and true objective. He'd promptly relayed this information to the US President, who then called for an emergency UN session of member nations.
"Ladies and gentlemen," he addressed the room and the UN Security Council through the secure feed, his voice steady and authoritative, "this is the moment we've been preparing for. Our global defense network stands ready, our allies are in position, united in purpose. Today, we fight not just for our individual nations, but for the entire human race."
Across the globe, world leaders convened in emergency war sessions, their faces grim yet determined on secure video feeds in their respective fortified war rooms. The newly established detection network—a marvel of human ingenuity and alien technology—streamed real-time data to these war rooms through the secure UN Security Council communication channel, established after the Kryptonian invasion. Tensions ran especially high in Washington, New Delhi, Moscow, Tel Aviv, Berlin, and Tokyo. These nations, having been aided by the heroes, were particularly eager to confront the Thanagarians after learning the truth.
The Thanagarians' betrayal not only wounded humanity's pride but forged an unprecedented global alliance. As the alien armada descended, the Justice League's broadcast of Wonder Woman's capture and the assault on Earth's delegates ignited a wildfire of outrage across the planet. Acting on Rachel's advice and detecting the armada's movement, the League swiftly released the footage to control the narrative, preventing the Thanagarians from spreading their own distorted version of events. Diana's defiant words to her captors—particularly her vow to Hawkgirl—became a rallying cry, resonating in the hearts of billions worldwide.
"The Thanagarians believe they've struck a crippling blow by capturing one of our champions," the President of India declared, her voice resonating with fierce determination through the secure channel. "What they fail to comprehend is that they've ignited a flame that will burn across the entire planet."
Her words struck a chord with the leaders worldwide. The Russian President's gravelly voice chimed in, "Da, well said. Before we contemplate any form of mercy, let us ensure our invaders face the full might of Earth's united forces."
The U.S. President added, his voice ringing with determination, "I concur. For far too long, extraterrestrial beings have underestimated us and looked down upon our world. But no more! Today, we draw a line in the cosmic sand. We'll make it crystal clear to the universe: this far, and no further! Let's show them the indomitable spirit of humanity. United we stand, united we fight, and united we will triumph!"
Back in the DOD command center, General Swanwick received an unexpected communique. "Sir," his aide reported, "the President has just signed a series of... unusual pardons. On the recommendation of Batman."
Swanwick's eyebrow arched. "Unusual how?"
"Well, sir," the aide hesitated, "let's just say our forces are about to be bolstered by some individuals with very... unique skill sets. Former adversaries who've agreed to fight for Earth."
A ghost of a smile played on Swanwick's lips. "Desperate times, desperate measures. Alert all commands: Operation Earthguard is now active. May God have mercy on us all."
Gobi Desert - Thanagarian Stronghold
The scorching sun beat down on the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert as Commander Talak's dreadnought descended to rendezvous with Kragger and Dojar Kham's ships. The massive vessels cast ominous shadows over the barren landscape, harbingers of the impending conflict. Talak's eyes narrowed as he surveyed the terrain, his mind racing with calculations.
"Commander," his second-in-command approached with a crisp salute. "The last of our fleet will soon enter Earth's atmosphere. We await your orders."
Talak nodded grimly. "Coordinate with the other two dreadnoughts and establish a defensive formation around the Hyperspace Bypass Generator. I want a three-tiered perimeter—nothing gets through. Deploy our forces to utterly annihilate these vermin."
As Thanagarian fighters swarmed from the dreadnoughts' hangars, the ships encircled the generator. A flurry of activity erupted on the desert floor as soldiers and engineers worked tirelessly, erecting energy shields and setting up weapon emplacements.
Meanwhile, aboard Kragger's dreadnought, the atmosphere was thick with anxiety. He paced nervously, his earlier bravado shattered by the realization that his plan to discredit Wonder Woman had backfired spectacularly. The truth of the Thanagarian betrayal had spread across the globe like wildfire, uniting Earth's nations against them. The leaked footage of the incident revealed two concerning possibilities, both questioning his competence: either a spy had infiltrated his ship undetected, or there was a traitor among his crew.
"Sir," a young officer interrupted Kragger's brooding. "We've detected multiple incoming signatures. Earth's military forces are converging on our position."
Kragger's face contorted with rage. "These primitives dare challenge us? Have the remaining pilots man the fighters and sortie. Ready all weapons! We'll show them the true might of Thanagar!"
Earth's Last Line of Defense
On the fringes of the Gobi Desert, shrouded by Raven's potent illusions, the Teen Titans stood witness to humanity's final gambit. A sea of military might stretched across the dunes—tanks, artillery, and aircraft from Russia, China, and India, united in purpose. Beside Raven stood Lunaris, a mysterious new ally recommended by Batman, her presence radiating power and wisdom.
"I've never seen anything like this," Bumblebee whispered, her voice trembling with awe. "It's like the whole world has come together."
Blue Beetle's voice carried over the group as he scanned the vast expanse and the gathered forces. "This is it, guys. The big leagues."
Starfire's emerald eyes shimmered with emotion. "On Tamaran, such unity was but a dream. To see it here, even amid an invasion... it gives me hope."
Batgirl, her fingers dancing over her computer keyboard, nodded grimly. "It's unprecedented. Global cooperation on this scale... we're making history, for better or worse."
Beast Boy's usual bravado had evaporated, replaced by a nervous energy that set his whole body trembling. "Guys," he whispered, his voice cracking, "this isn't like fighting some whacked-out supervillain. We're talking full-scale alien invasion. End of the world stuff. I... I don't know if I'm cut out for this."
A heavy silence fell over the young heroes, Beast Boy's words giving voice to the fear that gnawed at them all. The stakes were beyond anything they'd faced—the fate of the entire planet hung in the balance. Even their mentors, the seemingly invincible Justice League, weren't guaranteed victory. Wonder Woman's capture was a stark reminder of the danger they faced.
Robin stepped forward, his masked gaze sweeping over his team. Behind the fear, he saw courage waiting to ignite. He gripped Beast Boy's shoulder firmly. "Listen up, Titans. It's okay to be scared. Hell, unlike you lot, Batgirl and I are simply highly skilled humans. So, trust me, we're in the same boat—I'm scared too. But so what? What makes us heroes, guys? Facing fear itself. We do it not for glory, but because it's right."
He gestured to the vast army before them. "Look out there. Every soldier, every pilot—they're all probably as scared as we are. But they're here, fighting for their homes, their families, their world. We have the power to make a difference, to turn the tide. If we don't stand up now, everything we love is lost."
Beast Boy's eyes hardened with newfound determination. He thought of Jump City, of the fans who believed in him, of the world that needed protecting. He nodded, a hint of his trademark grin returning. "You're right, Rob. We can't let them down. Let's show these alien creeps what Earth's mightiest teen heroes can do!"
From the sidelines, Lunaris observed the exchange. Her sleek, black battle suit with silver accents seemed to absorb the desert light. A crescent moon-shaped mask obscured her features, but her eyes glowed with an otherworldly blue intensity. At her hip, a curved sword sheathed in a scabbard with lunar symbols hung ready.
Lunaris turned to Raven, her voice carrying a hint of amusement. "These young ones have spirit. Why not join them, little bird? In times like these, bonds forged in fire last a lifetime."
Raven, breaking from her meditative trance, cast a sidelong glance at her teammates before meeting Lunaris's gaze. "I am a Titan, yes. But I'm... different from them."
Lunaris cocked her head, a smile evident in her voice. "Oh? Do enlighten me, my brooding little Raven."
Raven's lips twitched at the playful jab. She sighed, her voice tinged with resignation. "I'm a cultivator. My path diverged from theirs long ago. I'll outlive them all. Why form attachments when goodbye is inevitable?"
Lunaris, stunned at her words, chuckled softly after a moment, then addressed Raven. "Oh, my dear girl. That isn't living—it's merely existing." She placed a gentle hand on Raven's shoulder. "Every soul that touches ours, be it for a moment or a millennium, adds color to the tapestry of our lives. Would you rather your canvas remain blank?"
Raven opened her mouth to argue but found herself without words.
Lunaris continued, her voice taking on a teasing lilt. "Besides, I thought you were supposed to be the wise one. Daughter of that higher realm being. Didn't anyone ever tell you that it's better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all?"
Despite herself, Raven felt a small smile tugging at her lips. "You sound like someone I know," she murmured.
Lunaris's eyes twinkled behind her mask. "Oh? And who might that be?"
Raven shook her head, the ghost of a laugh escaping her. "Just... someone who always knows how to get under my skin. In a good way."
As they turned back to watch the Titans, now engaged in animated strategy discussion, Lunaris whispered, so softly Raven almost missed it, "I'm glad to see they are a nice bunch. Make full use of the time you have with them... my little bird." Raven's mouth twitched hearing this and thought, 'She's enjoying this a little too much.'
Just then Blue Beetle noticed a familiar black aircraft appearing on the horizon and said, "And look—the big guns have arrived."
A sleek, obsidian aircraft soon appeared on the horizon for all to see. As it touched down, the Justice League emerged. Batman led the charge, his cape a dark banner in the desert wind. Behind him came Superman, Cyborg, Green Lanterns Hal Jordan and John Stewart, Flash, Green Arrow, Black Canary, Cheetah, and Martian Manhunter. The absence of Wonder Woman hung heavy in the air, a reminder of the sacrifice that had brought them to this moment.
The thrum of engines announced the arrival of the US Air Force, with Generals Swanwick and Lane at the helm. They approached the assembled heroes and fellow military leaders, determination etched on their faces.
General Swanwick addressed the assembled heroes and military leaders. "Ladies and gentlemen, I wish we were meeting under better circumstances. Perhaps next time, we'll share a round of golf instead." He clasped hands with his fellow generals, then with Batman, his eyes conveying the gravity of the situation. "Are we ready to engage? I doubt our preparations have gone unnoticed."
General Lane lowered his high-powered binoculars, his face etched with concern. "The Thanagarian forces on the ground are formidable enough. But those incoming ships..." His steely gaze locked onto Batman and Superman. "Are you certain this 'Lunaris' can deliver as promised?"
Batman's eyes narrowed beneath his cowl, his voice a low, determined growl. "Lunaris will come through. Our priority is the immediate threat." He gestured towards the ominous alien construct in the distance. "That generator is their endgame. If it becomes operational, Earth falls. We stop it at all costs."
Batman's eyes narrowed as he turned and surveyed the assembled heroes. "Superman, John, you'll lead the aerial assault. Cyborg, coordinate with the artillery. Flash, you're our ground support. Everyone else, be ready to adapt as needed. Remember, that generator is our primary target.'"
Superman nodded grimly. "Agreed. We hit hard and fast. This is no time for half measures."
Martian Manhunter and his niece M'gann, melding their psychic abilities, wove an intricate telepathic web connecting the military forces, generals, and Justice League members. This unprecedented network allowed for instantaneous communication of strategies and warnings.
Suddenly, J'onn's telepathic voice resonated in their minds. "They're making their move."
Batman locked eyes with Cyborg, giving a decisive nod. Understanding the prearranged signal, Cyborg's right arm morphed into a formidable long-range cannon, configured for maximum spread. As the first wave of Thanagarian fighters entered range, he unleashed a devastating barrage. The sky erupted in a dazzling, terrifying display as enemy ships were obliterated, marking the battle's brutal opening salvo.
Chaos engulfed the battlefield. Artillery thundered across the desert, their shells slamming against the shimmering shield protecting the alien generator. Tanks, their cannons loaded with specialized ammo born from reverse-engineered Kryptonian tech, formed a protective ring around the artillery. Their combined firepower tore Thanagarian fighters from the sky with ruthless efficiency. Though each fighter required multiple hits to down, Earth's forces held their ground, inflicting heavy losses on the invaders.
The skies above became a deadly arena of furious dogfights. Earth's air forces pushed their skills to the limit, defending ground troops and providing cover for the airborne heroes. Superman and John Stewart led the aerial assault, the Man of Steel carving through enemy ships with his heat vision while the Green Lantern focused on defense. Stewart's constructs shielded allied forces and redirected enemy fire, buying precious time for counterattacks.
Hal Jordan, the more seasoned Green Lantern, soared alongside Earth's fighter jets. His power ring conjured intricate energy shields and barriers that served a dual purpose: funneling enemy ships into kill zones where Earth's pilots could easily target them, and protecting damaged friendly aircraft as they retreated from the fray.
On the ground, the Flash became a crimson blur of motion, zipping between Thanagarian troops. He disarmed and disoriented them faster than they could react, his mastery of the Speed Force evident as he struck airborne escapees with precisely aimed lightning bolts.
Green Arrow and Black Canary moved in perfect synchronization, their combined skills creating crucial openings for the heavy hitters to exploit. The Teen Titans coordinated with Green Lantern Laira, forming a defensive line to protect the soldiers. Meanwhile, Zatanna and Constantine provided magical support from the rear, weaving illusions to confuse the enemy while strengthening their allies and manipulating the battlefield to their advantage.
Batman coordinated the assault from his Batwing, the craft emerging like a black ghost among the explosions. His voice crackled over the comms, "Cyborg, status on their generator?"
Cyborg, positioned at the alien shield's edge after a lightning-fast transport by Flash, scanned the defenses and the Hyperspace bypass generator. "70% completion, Batman. We're running out of time. I'm attempting to breach their defenses now, but I need more time!"
The Teen Titans, hearing Cyborg's plea, rallied to his defense. Starfire unleashed searing energy bolts while Blue Beetle deployed powerful beams and energy pulse shields. Raven, aware of Nth metal's anti-magic properties, took to the sky. Tapping into her inner realm, she bent the very air to her will, unleashing razor-sharp blades of compressed wind that sliced through enemy ranks. The enigmatic Lunaris glided across the battlefield with fluid grace, her sword flashing brilliantly as she cut down fighters and deflected enemy fire with uncanny precision.
For a moment, it seemed Earth's defenders might hold their ground against the overwhelming odds. But the Thanagarians had prepared for this resistance. They switched tactics, deploying weapons specifically designed to counter the Justice League's abilities. A beam of concentrated red sunlight struck Superman, his agonized scream piercing the air as he plummeted from the sky. John Stewart, distracted by his comrade's fall, was caught off guard by a barrage of Nth metal bullets that shattered his constructs and left him wounded on the battlefield. Hal Jordan, attempting to rescue his fallen allies, was struck by a beam of yellow energy that made his ring's power fluctuate. With a cry of dismay, his construct shattered, and he too crashed to the ground.
The assault continued with ruthless precision. A fighter unveiled a sonic cannon calibrated to Black Canary's exact frequency, leaving her incapacitated. An electromagnetic pulse, more sophisticated than any Earth-based technology, disrupted both Blue Beetle's armor and Cyborg's systems mid-hack.
As Earth's mightiest heroes fell one by one, a palpable sense of despair began to creep across the battlefield. The remaining fighters – Batman, Flash, Cheetah, and Green Arrow among them – fought with grim resolve, buying time for the Teen Titans to evacuate their fallen comrades.
Batman, his jaw clenched in fury and concern, barked orders to the remaining heroes. "Titans, extract the wounded! Arrow, Flash, Cheetah – distract and provide covering fire!" As the young heroes moved to recover their fallen mentors, Batman's mind raced, searching for a strategy to turn the tide of this increasingly desperate battle.
Cheetah, who had been providing rear support, saw her allies fall and felt a primal rage building within her. With a feral snarl, she summoned her Ki, mystical energy crackling around her as she called upon the power of the Green. In a blur of speed that rivaled the Flash, she launched herself into the fray, claws extended and eyes blazing with determination. The feline hero became a whirlwind of destruction, providing the Titans the opening they needed to reach the incapacitated Leaguers.
As the situation grew dire for Earth's defenders, Hro Talak's voice boomed across the battlefield, dripping with smug satisfaction. "It's over, humans. Your mightiest champions have fallen, and our armada has arrived. Surrender now, and we may yet show mercy."
The Earth's defenders looked up in horror as seventeen colossal dreadnoughts descended through the clouds, their massive forms casting ominous shadows over the battlefield. Talak, a vicious grin spreading across his face, savored his imminent victory. "Rejoice, human vermin," he announced, his voice laced with contempt. "You shall have the honor of dying by our dreadnoughts. All ships, take aim-"
But before he could finish his command, a blinding light engulfed the battlefield. A wave of pure destructive energy sliced through the air, racing towards the newly arrived dreadnoughts. As the light faded, an impossible sight greeted both sides of the conflict. Twelve of the mighty dreadnoughts had been cleaved clean through, their severed halves drifting apart in eerie silence before erupting into massive fireballs that lit up the sky. Wreckage rained down upon the Gobi desert, a testament to the devastating power that had been unleashed.
Talak's triumphant expression morphed into one of shock and disbelief. In the blink of an eye, his assured victory had crumbled to ash. As the Thanagarians reeled from this unexpected turn of events, a figure appeared in the rapidly darkening sky. Wreathed in crackling pink lightning, the newcomer wielded her new Lunaris moonlight sword—its shining blade disintegrating after unleashing a devastating attack.
The figure of Lunaris began to transform, her armor receding to reveal an iconic battle-worn suit that gleamed in the sun. Wonder Woman emerged in all her glory, hovering above the battlefield. Her lean yet powerful muscles tensed for action, her hair - now a striking shade of blackberry - whipped around her face. Some bangs danced excitedly as she fixed Talak's ship with a steely gaze. "Is this the extent of your empire's might?" she called out, her voice carrying across the battlefield. "Pathetic. Now, let me show you humanity's true power. Raven, now!"
At her command, another figure shot into the sky like a rocket. The rest watched, shocked and surprised by this unexpected development. Raven unfurled her wings, a ring of dark magical fire manifesting behind her. Her aura flared with incredible power, a faint silhouette of a giant raven materializing behind her staring menacing at the Thanagarians. With a wave of her hand, a massive shadow fell over the earth. From this darkness emerged an army of unexpected allies – Amazons on their horses, clad in battle-ready armor, formed neat formations led by Antiope and Queen Hippolyta herself. Atlanteans in advanced battle armor and wielding formidable weapons marched forth, commanded by Mera with Vulko as her advisor and second-in-command. A motley crew of former villains including Clayface, Poison Ivy, Harley Quinn, Catwoman, Mr. Freeze, Deadshot, DeathStroke, Captain Cold, and Heat Wave stood ready, their usual animosity towards heroes set aside in the face of a greater threat.
But the most shocking arrivals were the last to step from the portal. Mazikeen, a striking woman in a halter-neck top and leather pants, twirled curved blades with deadly grace. She was accompanied by two imposing figures: Amenadiel, a tall man with a strong, chiseled face and piercing blue eyes, wore a traditional cassock-style garment and carried a spear, radiating an air of authority and power. The other, Lucifer, a dark-haired man in an impeccable suit, exuded an air of mischievous danger. The air around the two celestial beings seemed to shimmer with barely contained power.
The sight of Mazikeen, a demon, had already unsettled Constantine, but seeing Amenadiel—a mighty Angel of the Lord—and Lucifer himself, the King of Hell, left him utterly terrified. He craved a stiff drink and longed to vanish into the shadows. His discomfort only intensified when he noticed Zatanna's intrigued glance toward the devil, her momentary attraction causing Constantine's spirits to plummet even further.
Lucifer's eyes gleamed with mischief as he surveyed the chaotic battlefield. He turned to Amenadiel and Maze with a smirk. "Well, isn't this delightful? I do so love a good ruckus. What say you, brother? Maze? Shall we remind these feathered fiends why it's unwise to meddle with Earth? After all, it's our favorite playground." His voice dropped to a silky purr. "And I do so hate when others play with my toys without permission."
Mazikeen's lips curved into a predatory smile as she swirled her hellforged blades. "With pleasure, Lucifer. This is going to be fun."
Amenadiel, typically reluctant to interfere in mortal affairs, considered the bigger picture. The potential debt owed by the wife and daughter of that higher realm being was enough for him to acquiesce to their request. He grunted but nodded, unfurling his own wings – majestic and angelic.
Wonder Woman then raised her hands and called out, her voice resonating with divine power, "Gods of Olympus, I call upon you! Stand with us in Earth's darkest hour!"
The sky split open in response, and from it descended the Olympian pantheon in all their ancient glory. Towering figures of the Olympian gods materialized – Hercules, Athena, and Artemis among them. At the forefront stood Ares, the god of war, his eyes shining with ominous red light as he absorbed the rich essence of battle from the field, his power visibly growing. Queen Hera appeared last, wielding her staff, her eyes glowing with ethereal light. With a wave of her hand, the injured were miraculously healed. Champions like Superman and the Green Lanterns rose to their feet, taking to the skies alongside their allies. The Teen Titans, the mages Zatanna and Constantine, and Green Lantern Laira joined them, followed swiftly by the armies of various nations.
Wonder Woman turned to survey the assembled forces, a look of fierce determination on her face as she summoned her god slayer sword from her necklace terminal space. Across the battlefield, Talak emerged with what remained of his army and ships, his eyes burning with hatred as he glared at the champions of Earth. He addressed Wonder Woman, his voice trembling with rage, "How? How are you not in shackles? We captured YOU!"
Wonder Woman's lips curled into a contemptuous smile. "Did you truly think someone like you could capture me?" She locked eyes with Talak. "Understand this: I allowed myself to be captured. I needed to uncover your plans, and more importantly, I wanted to give Hawkman and Hawkgirl—whom I once considered allies—the benefit of the doubt. I could have escaped at any moment." Her gaze then found Hawkgirl standing alongside Hawkman and Talak. Wonder Woman's eyes narrowed dangerously as she spoke, "Shayera Hol of Thanagar, do you remember my promise to you?" At her words, Hawkgirl involuntarily shuddered, feeling a chill run down her spine as she grasped her mace tightly. Wonder Woman noted her reaction but continued without mercy, "I promised the next time we met, I would make you pay for your betrayal a thousandfold. Look at the armada you were so proud of. Only seven remain."
Hro Talak snarled with disdain, "What a primitive, stupid race. You can't even count? You may have destroyed most of our dreadnoughts, but we still have eight left!"
Wonder Woman's smile only widened at Talak's outburst. She called out, "Raven, if you would?"
Raven landed beside her mother, raised her hand, and released a sharp snap that startled all present. Suddenly, Talak heard a frantic communication from Kragger, "Commander, something's wrong! My dreadnought is unresponsive... no... it's... it's been taken over!"
Shock rippled through Hro Talak as he whirled to look at Kragger's dreadnought. To his horror, he saw it change position and maneuver to ram into the dreadnought closest to it, pushing both towards the generator. Talak heard Kragger's terrified voice once more over the comm channel, "General! The ship is out of our control and heading for the generator... no... for the love of Thanagar... nooooooo..." The Thanagarians could only watch in horror as the two massive ships collided with the Hyper Space bypass generator station, the resulting explosion utterly destroying their construct and their hopes. The blast triggered a chain reaction of secondary explosions; a third dreadnought barely managed to escape the blast radius, while countless fighters were consumed behind the failing shield. As the energy field disintegrated, the Thanagarians found themselves suddenly exposed to the full might of Earth's assembled armies.
"Well, well," Wonder Woman said, her voice tinged with mock surprise. "It seems I miscounted. You have six dreadnoughts left. My sincerest apologies for the confusion."
Talak, his face contorted with rage, let out a guttural loud roar. "You insolent human! Do you comprehend the magnitude of your actions? That station was our salvation! You'll pay dearly for this! Thanagarians, to arms! For the glory of Thanagar!" His impassioned cry galvanized his remaining forces, their fury ignited by the loss of their precious station. As one, the Thanagarians took to the skies, following Talak's lead as he launched himself towards Earth's defenders.
Wonder Woman's expression hardened, her voice ringing out clear and strong as she addressed the assembled forces. "Hear me, defenders of Earth! Today, we stand united - criminals and heroes, soldiers and civilians, Amazons and Atlanteans, gods and mortals alike. If you call this world home, if you've basked in its beauty and shared in its bounty, now is the time to rise! Unite as one to protect our Earth!" She raised her sword high, its blade gleaming in the sunlight. "Defenders, to battle!"
A thunderous cry of "FOR EARTH!" erupted from thousands of throats as the defenders surged forward to meet their adversaries.
The clash that followed was nothing short of epic. The sky erupted in a dazzling display of energy blasts and magical attacks as heroes and villains fought side by side against the Thanagarian invaders. Wonder Woman led the charge, her sword a blur of motion as she carved through enemy ranks with lethal precision.
Raven, hovering above the battlefield, tapped into her inner world. With a wave of her hand, she manipulated the space around her, creating a localized spatial distortion. Thanagarian fighters and warriors caught within the affected area found themselves compressed and twisted, their agonized screams cut short as their bodies were crushed. The ground below was soon littered with the wreckage of fighters and the remains of Thanagarian soldiers.
The three Green Lanterns now protected by Queen Hera's Magic, focused on creating a multilayered defense, shielding their allies against aerial attacks from the remaining dreadnoughts. Meanwhile, the mages conjured illusions of the Lanterns across the battlefield, confusing the enemy and preventing direct assaults on the real ones. Superman, empowered by Queen Hera's magical protection, soared across the battlefield unimpeded. With the Thanagarians' weapons rendered useless against him, he blasted or thrashed any foe that crossed his path.
On the ground, Amazons and Atlanteans showcased their martial prowess. Their fighting techniques, weapons and formations, caught the Thanagarians off guard, effectively countering the invaders' superior numbers and advanced technology. The reformed villains, now allies in Earth's defense, unleashed their powers with calculated precision. Poison Ivy's plants erupted from the earth, their thorny vines lashing out at Thanagarian warriors and draining their life force. While Catwoman and Harley Quinn protected Ivy from attacks. Mr. Freeze and Captain Cold worked in tandem, creating deadly ice formations that pierced through Thanagarian armor and machinery alike. When the remaining dreadnoughts launched aerial strikes, these icy villains coordinated with the Green Lanterns, forming additional layers of frozen defensive walls to protect their side.
Lucifer and Mazikeen carved a path of destruction through the Thanagarian forces, their otherworldly powers proving more than a match for alien technology. Maze's hellforged blades sliced through Thanagarian armor as if it were paper while vicious smile on her lips, while Lucifer employed his strength to literally tear the wings from Thanagarian soldiers, doing it with a smile, Amenadiel's time-manipulation abilities created pockets of slowed time across the battlefield. He moved with deadly grace, skewering Thanagarians who appeared frozen in his wake. His mastery over time proved invaluable, allowing Earth's defenders and weaponry to outmaneuver their opponents with uncanny precision and speed.
The Olympian gods unleashed their divine might upon the battlefield, each deity showcasing their unique powers. Ares, the god of war, reveled in the chaos, his strength visibly growing with each Thanagarian he crushed. Athena, goddess of wisdom and warfare, wielded her blade with surgical precision, slaying foes while her aegis shield protected Earth's mortal defenders. Artemis, the huntress, loosed a barrage of arrows that never missed their mark, bringing down Thanagarian fighters and disabling turrets on the remaining dreadnoughts.
Queen Hera, standing in the rear overlooking the battlefield, raised her staff high. Golden light emanated from it, washing over the Earth's defenders. Those touched by her magic found their strength renewed, wounds healed, and resolve strengthened. With a wave of her hand, she cast protective barriers around key strategic positions, shielding them from Thanagarian assaults.
Dionysus sowed chaos in the enemy ranks, causing confusion and disorientation among the Thanagarians with his powers of madness. His vines entangled Thanagarian ships, causing them to crash into each other.
Hercules, with his legendary strength, bulldozed through enemy lines, leaving a trail of crushed Thanagarian armor in his wake. Hermes, the swift messenger god, collaborated with The Flash, their combined speed allowing them to zip across the battlefield, dismantling enemy ground cannons and communication arrays faster than the eye could follow. Apollo's radiant arrows of light pierced through Thanagarian energy shields, while his twin sister Artemis's silver arrows found their marks in the shadows, each deity's power amplified by Hera's enchantments.
As the battle raged on, the tide began to turn, The Thanagarians, despite their superior numbers, advanced technology, and military prowess, found themselves slowly getting overwhelmed by the sheer diversity and power of Earth's united forces. Hro Talak watched in disbelief as his carefully laid plans unraveled before his eyes. The bitter realization dawned on him that he had gravely underestimated the planet—and the people—he had sought to conquer.
In the heart of the conflict, Wonder Woman and Hawkgirl finally came face to face. The two former allies circled each other, the weight of betrayal and broken trust hanging heavily between them. "It didn't have to come to this, Shayera," Wonder Woman said, her voice tinged with sadness and disappointment. "You could have stood with us, protected the world you claimed to love."
Hawkgirl's grip on her mace tightened, conflict evident in her eyes. "You don't understand, Diana. Thanagar is my home. I had no choice-"
"No, Shayera. I do understand," Wonder Woman cut her off, her voice firm. "My priorities have shifted recently as well. I would choose my loved ones over all else as well. But you had a choice, and you chose poorly. Now, you must face the consequences of your actions." With that, she lunged forward, her sword meeting Hawkgirl's mace in a shower of sparks that symbolized the final severance of their friendship.
As the sun began to set on the ravaged battlefield, it became clear that neither side could claim a decisive victory. The Thanagarians, though diminished, still possessed formidable firepower and tactical prowess. Earth's defenders, while united and diverse in their abilities, found themselves stretched thin across multiple fronts. Both Hro Talak and Wonder Woman realized that the conflict had reached a stalemate, and only a bold move could turn the tide.
Talak, having just fended off Hercules's attack, soared upward. Driven to desperation, he gritted his teeth and made a fateful decision. He contacted his second-in-command on the dreadnought, ordering him to initiate the self-destruct sequence and set the ship on a collision course with the enemy. The second-in-command, Mihol, understood the gravity of the situation. With grim determination, he ordered an immediate evacuation and initiated the countdown, choosing to personally pilot the doomed vessel towards Earth's defenders.
Talak watched with a mix of pride and rage as Mihol carried out his orders. The sight of such bravery fueled his anger towards the Earth's defenders for pushing them to this extreme.
The sudden retreat of Thanagarian soldiers and the ominous approach of the dreadnought initially confused Earth's defenders. However, Batman and Cyborg's urgent warnings soon echoed through their psychic link, alerting them to the impending danger. They called for an immediate retreat and urged the gods and Green Lanterns to repel the incoming threat.
As many defenders scrambled for safety under the protection of the gods, Hera combined her efforts with the Green Lanterns and mages to hastily erect a massive shield. Seeing this defense materialize, Mihol, his face set with unwavering resolve, pushed the dreadnought's thrusters to maximum. With a defiant cry of "FOR THANAGAR!" he plunged into the fray, unleashing a barrage of plasma cannon fire to suppress any counterattack.
Diana, recognizing the dire situation, fought her way through the Thanagarian ranks to position herself at the forefront of Earth's defenders. Despite having expended half of her God Ki in her earlier assault, she drew upon her remaining reserves. Plunging her sword into the ground, she channeled her energy outward, striving to create an additional protective barrier. Raven, sensing her mother's intentions, summoned her own magic, intertwining it with Diana's God Ki to amplify and accelerate the shield's formation.
The defenders' efforts proved barely sufficient. As the dreadnought collided with the outermost layers of the Green Lanterns' shield, it detonated in a cataclysmic explosion. The shockwave shattered the Lanterns' barriers and severely damaged Hera's magical shield. Only the combined might of Raven and Wonder Woman's hastily erected Ki barrier prevented total devastation.
Before the dust could settle, a second dreadnought emerged from the chaos, ramming into the weakened defenses. The impact of this second explosion reverberated across the Gobi Desert, finally breaching Hera's shield and testing the limits of Raven and Wonder Woman's barrier. Mother and daughter stood firm, expending their Ki to protect their allies, even as Rachel's hands began to tremble from the unprecedented strain.
As the defenders braced for a potential third assault, an unexpected turn of events left them stunned. Strange beams of energy lanced down from the clouds, vaporizing Thanagarian forces on contact. The sky erupted in a deadly light show as fighters exploded under this mysterious barrage. Even the gods and celestials among Earth's defenders found themselves unable to discern the source of this overwhelming power, leaving them tense and uncertain whether this new force was friend or foe.
Suddenly, the heavens split with a blinding flash. A sphere of pure crimson energy, unlike anything they had ever witnessed, struck one of the remaining Thanagarian dreadnoughts. Upon impact, reality itself seemed to warp and twist. The explosion that followed defied conventional physics, expanding not with fire and smoke, but as an eerily silent void that began to devour everything in its path. Thanagarian ships, fighters, and even debris were inexorably drawn into the growing anomaly, leaving behind a perfect sphere of nothingness - a hole torn in the very fabric of space-time.
As the phenomenon subsided, an unnatural silence fell over the battlefield. Both Earth's defenders and the remnants of the Thanagarian force stood in equal parts awe and terror at this display of power that transcended their understanding of warfare. It was clear that this was no ordinary weapon, but something capable of rewriting the laws of physics themselves.
All eyes turned skyward, searching for the source of this reality-altering force. Through the torn clouds, a massive shape descended - a colossal red aircraft with wings of shimmering green crystal. While most observers were left baffled by this new arrival, Rachel's eyes widened in recognition. "That's... They're finally here!" she exclaimed, a mix of relief and anticipation in her voice.
Flashback-part 1
In Azarath, Rachel gently placed Diana's unconscious form into a specialized healing pod. This prototype med pod had been constructed by her father for the family. During their past training, she and her mother had utilized this pod multiple times to recover from injuries sustained in their training sessions. As soon as the realm itself sensed Diana's weak signature, it reacted. God Ki surged through the realm, and the nearby plants outside their present home in Azarath extended their tendrils, reaching the med pod and supplying rich Ki to the healing chamber, accelerating her recovery.
After a few hours, Diana's eyes finally fluttered open. As consciousness returned, she found herself enveloped in the familiar warmth of the med pod. The system, sensing her awakening, began its shut-down sequence, draining away the healing fluid and purifying it for future use.
As the pod door opened, Diana emerged from the pod, her body glistening with residual energy. With a mere thought, she channeled her God Ki, instantly drying herself and incinerating the tattered remains of her previous attire. A simple touch to her necklace terminal summoned her new yet iconic Wonder Woman armor from its pocket dimension. As she donned her suit, Diana stretched her muscles, feeling renewed strength course through her veins—a testament to both the pod's efficacy and her own resilient nature.
Steeling herself, Diana exited the med pod chamber, ready to face her daughter. As expected, she found Rachel sitting in the living room of their Azarath home, her face a storm of emotions. Cold anger blazed in Rachel's eyes, mixed with undeniable relief at seeing her mother recovered and at full strength.
Rachel's gaze locked onto Diana as she entered, and a single, loaded question escaped her lips: "Why?" That lone word carried the weight of all her tumultuous feelings—relief, hurt, and anger.
Diana's response was immediate and physical. In a blur, she appeared before Rachel, enveloping her in a tight embrace. Despite her initial resistance, Rachel soon melted into her mother's arms, her anger giving way to the comfort of her presence.
Gently stroking Rachel's hair, Diana began her explanation, her voice soft. "I'm sorry for putting you through that, my love. But when I received your message, I understood the extent of our enemies' wariness toward Victor and me. Even with the intelligence you've gathered and our rallied forces, I feared they might hold back their true strength when we clashed if I remained an active threat. However, this act of ours should lull them into a false sense of security."
Diana's eyes met Rachel's as she continued, "Now, when we mobilize with the information you've uncovered, they'll underestimate us and reveal their full hand openly. They believe they've neutralized their greatest threat. Their overconfidence will be their downfall."
Understanding dawned in Rachel's eyes. "A calculated risk to gain the upper hand," she mused.
"Precisely," Diana confirmed. "To protect what we love, sometimes we must be willing to take risks that seem unthinkable. But never doubt this, my daughter—I will always find my way back to you."
Rachel, stunned by the familiar ring of those words, felt a mischievous grin tugging at her lips. "You know, you sound just like Dad right now," she remarked, with a glimmer of amusement in her eyes.
Diana blinked, momentarily taken aback. Then, a wry smile spread across her face. "I suppose you're right," she conceded with a chuckle. "I understand more than ever how he must have felt during the Central City incident."
Seizing the moment of levity, Rachel couldn't resist pushing further. "So, does this mean you're planning to spare Dad from the promised beating?" she asked, with playful insinuation.
Diana's eyes widened for a split second before narrowing in mock severity. Recognizing the mischievous train of thought her daughter was pursuing, she matched Rachel's grin with one of her own. "Not a chance," she declared emphatically. "That's my right and privilege as his wife. Some things are sacred, after all."
As laughter filled the room, the tension of recent events began to dissipate.
Rachel, emerging from her laughter, spoke with a somber tone. "Speaking of Dad, he was working on something for you. It's unfinished—he wasn't satisfied with the available materials—but I've tweaked his incomplete work and created something that should prove useful in the upcoming battles." She paused, looking straight into her mother's eyes before continuing, "Also, Mom, I understand why you did what you did, but... try not to make a habit of it, okay? I prefer my parents in one piece."
"Deal," Diana agreed, pulling her daughter into a warm embrace. Soon after, mother and daughter decided to leave Azarath. They returned to Diana's apartment to collect her sword, a few essentials, and some clothes, before creating a ripple that led directly to the Batcave.
As Diana and Rachel emerged from the ripple in the Batcave, interrupting an intense discussion among Batman, Cyborg, Cheetah, Hal Jordan, Green Arrow, and Black Canary. The assembled heroes, engrossed in a heated debate about the missing delegation and the ominous tremors that had rocked the Thanagarian dreadnought—as captured by the Teen Titans' covert surveillance on Batman's orders—were momentarily startled by the sudden appearance.
Instinctively, weapons were drawn, then quickly lowered as recognition dawned. The heroes relaxed, offering curt nods of acknowledgment to the newcomers. Cheetah, her voice thick with worry, swiftly approached the pair. "Thank goodness you're both safe," she said, relief evident in her tone. "What happened up there? We've heard nothing from the other delegation members. I've been worried sick."
Diana smiled gently and shook her head before saying, "We're fine, Cheetah. But don't expect to hear from the other delegates anytime soon. The Thanagarians revealed their true nature when they saw I was unarmed and without backup. They tried to capture me. I played along with their ruse to enact a plan, but in doing so, they captured the other delegates along with me."
The revelation shocked Cheetah and in the next moment, her eyes flashed, pupils contracting to feline slits as a golden aura erupted around her. A low, menacing growl rumbled from her throat, her claws extending as her fur bristled as she started turning into her full Cheetah form. The surge of power radiating from her was so intense that even the rest of the heroes took an involuntary step back.
What transpired next defied explanation. The very foundations of the Batcave trembled, responding to Cheetah's unleashed fury. Unbeknownst to most present, two ancient forces stirred beneath Gotham – a demon sealed in the depths and the primordial essence of this world known as the Green. Cheetah's Ki, a power deeply entwined with nature itself, resonated with these slumbering giants, a testament to her training on Themyscira.
The Green, sensing the distress of its newfound champion, reached out through their nascent bond. It offered its strength, ready to unleash its fury against any who would threaten the natural order or harm its champions. Miles away, the reverberations were felt. In Arkham Asylum, a prisoner's eyes snapped open, alert to the disturbance. Deep in the Louisiana swamps, another entity stirred from its slumber, its consciousness drawn to the surge of power.
Diana and Rachel, attuned to the fluctuations of Ki, reacted with lightning speed. In a blur of motion, they flanked Cheetah, their hands gentle but firm on her shoulders. Diana's voice, a beacon of calm authority, cut through the maelstrom of Cheetah's rage. "Easy, Barbara," Diana said soothingly. "We're okay. If we wanted, Rachel and I could have decimated their forces if we'd unleashed our full power. This was a calculated move. Please, calm yourself."
Cheetah's fury subsided as Diana's words sank in. With visible effort, she regained control, her eyes closing momentarily as she steadied herself. The tension in the cave dissipated, and the assembled heroes collectively exhaled in relief.
Batman's gaze lingered on Cheetah, his expression a complex mix of emotions. Over the past few months, she had become an increasingly important part of his life, both as an ally and partner. While he appreciated her fierce loyalty, he couldn't ignore the potential conflict between her Amazonian-influenced beliefs and his own moral code.
He understood that Cheetah respected his no-kill rule under normal circumstances but wouldn't hesitate to cross that line to protect those she cared about—including himself. This realization brought a flicker of concern for their future, yet it was tempered by a deeper understanding. Despite the potential complications, Batman wanted their relationship to work. He felt a warmth at the knowledge that Barbara's fierce protectiveness stemmed from her genuine love for him, even as it challenged his long-held principles.
As Cheetah's eyes opened, now returned to their demi-human appearance, she nodded gratefully to Diana and Rachel. "I'm sorry," she murmured, embarrassment coloring her tone. "I lost control." Diana's smile was warm, understanding. "It's only natural, Barbara. Your heart is in the right place."
With a nod from Diana, Rachel stepped forward, her fingers dancing over a holographic interface of her terminal. The air of the Batcave came alive with shimmering displays filled with information, images, and video feeds. "We were successful in gathering…everything," Rachel began, her voice grim, "This is what the Thanagarians are truly after."
As Rachel's briefing unfolded, the true nature of the Thanagarian "shield projector" was revealed. The device, which some League members had unwillingly helped construct to maintain their facade of cooperation, was in fact a hyperspace bypass bridge, a device that would in simple terms open a gateway to their goal, home world of their enemy the Gordanians. But, its activation had a price, that upon activation it would tear Earth apart as it used its core to create the gateway. The Thanagarians' ultimate goal became clear: to gain a decisive advantage in their war against the Gordanians, with Earth as nothing more than collateral damage.
The heroes' reactions were a storm of emotions – shock, betrayal, and a simmering rage that threatened to boil over. The footage of Wonder Woman's confrontation with Hawkgirl was particularly damning. Hawkgirl's words,"…my loyalty lies with Thanagar." echoed through the cave, extinguishing any last hope that their former teammate might be reasoned with.
As the gravity of the situation settled over the group, Diana stepped forward, her presence commanding and resolute. "I know this is difficult to process," she began, her voice steady. "My capture was a calculated risk, designed to lull our enemies into a false sense of security. It's a strategy that will lead to suffering for some, but it's our best chance to prevent an even greater catastrophe."
Batman's eyes narrowed behind his cowl, as he analyzed the implications behind Diana's actions. "Elaborate, Diana. What's your endgame?"
Wonder Woman's gaze swept across the assembled heroes, her voice grave. "While our combined forces can handle their current ground troops, we face a formidable threat looming above—seventeen dreadnoughts and five transport ships in orbit." She paused, noting their solemn expressions and nods of understanding. "However," she continued, her tone resolute, "though powerful, they are not invincible. Do you remember the sword attack I unleashed during the Kryptonian invasion?"
Nods of recognition rippled through the group, memories of that devastating strike still fresh in their minds. Diana continued, her voice resonating with newfound confidence born from rigorous training and a deeper connection to her inner realm and world,"I've transcended my former limits, breaking through to a new level of power. Now, I can unleash an attack capable of cleaving through multiple dreadnoughts in one stroke. But for this to work, we must lure them into committing their full force to the assault on Earth."
She paused, allowing the audacity of her plan to sink in. "My 'capture' and the havoc I wreaked on their ship weren't mere acts of defiance. They were calculated moves to wound the Thanagarians' pride, shatter their confidence, and instill fear. The goal? To make them act on emotion rather than strategy. When we strike back, they'll summon their entire fleet, believing they can crush us with sheer force. And that's precisely when we'll spring our trap.
"We'll initiate a multi-phase assault," Diana explained, her voice resonating with determination. "First, the Justice League and Earth's military forces will engage in a seemingly desperate defense. Given that they have weapons designed specifically to neutralize our members, it shouldn't be difficult to create the illusion of a desperate struggle."
She turned to Hal, her gaze intense. "Hal, I need Laira to coordinate with the Teen Titans and our allied mages. Their primary task will be to support our members and the brave soldiers from the shadows, especially when the enemy deploys their specialized weapons against us. When the Thanagarians use their contingencies on our team, the Titans and Laira will pivot to protect the mages, who in turn will shield our heroes with support spells. This strategy will prevent our members from being truly affected by the enemy's tailored weapons—designed to exploit our weaknesses—while maintaining the illusion that we're overwhelmed."
Diana's eyes swept across the room, meeting each hero's gaze. "This will be our bait. It will make the Thanagarians believe they truly have the advantage, inflating their already substantial arrogance. If my efforts on their vessel didn't fully provoke them, this situation certainly will. The moment their entire fleet descends, and I find the opportunity to target most—if not all—of their ships, I'll unleash my attack, obliterating my targets. Simultaneously, Cyborg will initiate a highly focused EMP burst, disabling any remaining Thanagarian tech on the ships I target and those that somehow manage to escape. This will ensure they all come crashing down. Once they're grounded, Rachel will transport our reinforcements—the Amazons, Atlantean armies, and our other allies."
She paused, drawing a deep breath before continuing, her voice resonating with unwavering resolve. "But we're not stopping there. At that pivotal moment, I will summon the Gods of Olympus themselves to join our battle. I know many of us—and the allies we've called upon—come from diverse backgrounds and have varied experiences. Yet, in the face of this threat, our past roles and relationships—be we criminals, soldiers, heroes, champions, or gods—become irrelevant. We will stand as one, a united front against this invasion. We must never forget: this isn't merely the League's fight—it's a battle for every soul who calls this world their home."
As the rest digested the plan, the rest showed varying emotions but, mostly they were shocked and in awe.
Green Arrow let out a low whistle, a mix of admiration and awe in his voice. "Now that's what I call a plan, Diana. Ruthless, strategic, and thorough. You've been holding out on us with these tactical skills."
Batman nodded approvingly. "It's comprehensive and leverages our strengths effectively. But we'll need contingencies for every phase. Let's break this down further and prepare for all possible outcomes."
Batman's mind was already racing, formulating contingencies and backup plans. "To make sure we succeed, we'll need a multi-pronged approach," he stated, his tone brooking no argument. "Cyborg, I want you coordinating with our global allies – military and civilian. We need a united front when the invasion comes. Hal, what's the status on Green Lantern Corps backup?"
Hal Jordan's face was grim as he reported, "They're spread thin across the sector due to another incident, but I've called in every favor I have. We should have a small contingent arriving within 48 hours."
Batman turned back to Diana, his voice low and intense. "Your attack is our primary offensive, but we need failsafes. We need a way to neutralize their hyperspace bridge if your strike doesn't take out all their ships."
Diana nodded, a spark of pride in her eyes as she glanced at Rachel. "We may have an ace up our sleeve for that very scenario."
Rachel stepped forward, her expression a mix of determination and barely contained excitement. "Mother2 deployed a sophisticated bug during our time on their ship. I now have backdoor access to their systems. When the time comes, I can override their controls and crash the compromised dreadnought directly into the hyperspace bridge."
A predatory grin spread across Rachel's face. "Those bird-brains won't know what hit them."
Batman nodded, his voice firm. "Good. We need to cover all angles. Let's establish contingencies and a clear chain of command. To win, we must stay several steps ahead at all times."
As the group delved deeper into formulating their battle strategy, Rachel's eyes suddenly narrowed, her focus turning inward. Through the link with her soul essence left behind in her decoy on the Thanagarian dreadnought, she overheard a conversation between the high council, commanders, and generals. While glad that her mother's plan had worked, she was also alarmed to learn that more Thanagarians—including their high elder council—were en route.
Taking a deep breath, Rachel decided to analyze the situation with Mother2 before informing the others. For now, she chose to announce only the immediate threat.
"Wonder Woman succeeded. They're coming—all of them—but they're moving faster than we anticipated," she declared, her voice taut with urgency. "We need to inform the world leaders of the impending battle. Now."
Batman and Cyborg sprang into action, coordinating communication channels with the UN and Atlantis, preparing to share their findings and footage. As the first reports of descending Thanagarian ships trickled in, Rachel's link provided another crucial piece of intelligence. "They're planning to release doctored footage," she warned, her voice tight with anger. "They want to paint Wonder Woman as the aggressor, to justify imposing martial law across Earth and cripple our ability to mount a coordinated defense to prevent us from creating issues for them as their ships descends."
Rachel's eyes blazed with determination as she formulated a counter-strategy. "We need to beat them at their own game," she declared. "We'll release our footage to the world first – the full, unedited truth of their betrayal and their plans for Earth. Let the world see the true face of our enemy."
Diana listened to her daughter's words with a mixture of pride and amusement, a wry smile playing on her lips as she gently patted Rachel's head. The gesture earned her a confused side-eye from Rachel, but there was no time to dwell on it.
Batman nodded grimly. "Agreed. It may cause panic, but it's better than letting their lies take root. We need to unite the world against this threat before they can divide us."
As the others busied themselves with their tasks, Rachel's mind continued to whir. She approached Diana with a spark of inspiration in her eyes. "Mother," she said, her voice low and urgent, "we need to leverage the element of surprise. The Thanagarians believe they've captured Wonder Woman. We can use that to our advantage." Her eyes lit up as she continued, "Remember when I said I have something to give you. Well with Mother2's help I was able to make this unfinished battle suit Dad was working on for you work. With this we can create a new persona for you – a mysterious warrior who aids the Justice League. This way, you can hide in plain sight until the moment is right to reveal yourself, all while fighting alongside us."
Diana stunned but, in the next moment she a wry smile creeping on her face, thinking about how Orach had actually been working on a battle gear for her. She then nodded, intrigued by the idea of her daughter. "So, what do you have in mind and where's the suit?"
Rachel grinned, her fingers dancing over Mother2's holographic interface. In moments, the jewel of Diana's terminals shone, and her iconic armor, along with her pants and heel boots, shimmered and transformed. A layer of God Ki extended from the terminals, materializing a sleek, full-body black battle suit with silver accents. A crescent moon-shaped mask materialized, covering Diana's face, while her eyes now glowed with an ethereal blue light. On her back, her blade had also been replaced by a curved sword, its blade seemingly forged from moonlight itself.
"Behold," Rachel announced with a flourish and a smug grin, "the birth of Lunaris, the Moonblade Sentinel!"
Diana stood tall, her new form radiating power and mystery. The assembled heroes looked on in awe, a mixture of confusion and shock evident on their faces. Cyborg, in particular, seemed perplexed, his sensors struggling to process what he was seeing. Technology from the higher realm always seemed to confound the Mother Box.
Batman's eyes narrowed as he studied the transformed Diana. "Lunaris... With that suit, you could easily blend into darkness and strike from the shadows. Did Orach create this for you, Wonder Woman? He even crafted you a sword?"
Rachel's eyes gleamed with pride. "Indeed. Though this is Dad's unfinished work, he designed this battle suit and sword for Mom, similar to the battle suit he made for me. Mother2 and I spent some time completing the suit and new blade as best we could while Mom was recovering, to allow her to participate in the upcoming fight undetected. If she used her regular sword, people would instantly connect the dots." She paused, addressing her mother directly, "Mom, I've infused it with my own Ki, granting it the power to manipulate space itself. When you channel your Ki into the blade, it'll activate mine within, allowing you to control space and gravity around you. Use it sparingly, though – I could only infuse a limited amount of my Ki without risking the sword's integrity."
Diana – now Lunaris – tested the weight of the moonblade, feeling the familiar presence of her daughter's Ki within it. A tender smile graced her lips, hidden behind her mask. However, when she spoke, her voice emerged altered, ethereal and haunting, resonating through the Batcave. "Thank you... dear?" The surprise in her tone was evident, matched by the stunned expressions of everyone present. Rachel, noticing her mother's reaction, couldn't help but giggle. "Voice modulation," she explained with a grin. "Can't have anyone recognizing your voice, can we?"
Behind her mask, Diana's jaw dropped in amazement. The depth of thought her daughter had poured into this new persona left her momentarily speechless. Making a mental note to discuss this in detail later, she nodded and continued, her new, ethereal voice resonating through the cave, "Thank you, Rachel. With this blade, I shall carve a path through the Thanagarian fleet and pave the way for Earth's victory in its darkest hour."