DC: Legacy of Cycl⦻ps

—Location: Earth-616—

Scott Summers, also known as Cyclops, stands alongside Jean Grey, who holds a baby in her arms. They are in front of the Krakoa portal, which emits a pulsating green light. The sky above is dark, ominous clouds swirling as the world faces its end.Jean Grey: Scott, what should we name our baby?Scott Summers: How about Zack?Jean's eyes light up with joy at the suggestion, but then her expression quickly shifts to sadness as the reality of their situation sinks in. Tears well up in her eyes.Jean Grey: That's perfect, Scott. But... but I can't bear the thought of Zack growing up in a world about to be destroyed.Scott wraps his arm around Jean, offering what comfort he can in the face of impending doom.Scott Summers: I know, Jean. It's hard for me too. But we have to do what's best for him.With resolve in his voice, Scott turns towards Krakoa, the living island, its form shifting and pulsating with energy.Scott Summers: Krakoa we need your help!!The sentient island, Krakoa, responds, its presence looming large and comforting in the background.Krakoa: I am listening, Cyclops?With a heavy heart, Scott speaks, his voice echoing with resolve.Cyclops: Send our son... send Zack to another universe, where he can be safe.Krakoa responds to Scottss' call, its expression unreadable yet somehow understanding. It agrees to the request.Jean holds Zack tightly, tears streaming down her face, as Scott looks on with a mixture of sorrow and determination.Scott Summers: It's time, Jean.With a final glance at their son, Jean reluctantly nods, her heart heavy with the weight of their decision then Scott put a small name tag on the baby.Jean: Goodbye, my sweet boy...With a final, tearful glance, Scott and Jean gently place Zack into the portal's embrace. As he disappears into the unknown, they share a moment of silent mourning.But their grief is interrupted by a surprising sight Jeffrey the Landshark, bounding towards the portal with a determined gleam in his eye.Jean: Jeffrey, no! You can't—Scott interrupts, his voice filled with resolve.Scott: Let him go, Jean. Jeffrey's made his choice.With a final bark of determination, Jeffrey leaps into the portal, disappearing into the unknown alongside Zack.As the portal closes behind them, Scott wraps his arms tightly around Jean, pulling her close as the catastrophic event unfolds. As the cataclysmic forces of the incursion reach their zenith, the earth trembles one final time before succumbing to the overwhelming power. The ground beneath Scott and Jean fractures, swallowing them into the abyss as the world around them crumbles into dust.And then, in a blinding flash of light, everything fades into nothingness. The Earth, once teeming with life and hope, is no more, lost to the annals of time and space, a mere memory in the vast expanse of the universe.As the wave of destruction draws nearer, Scott presses his forehead against Jean's, their tears mingling as they share a moment of profound sorrow and acceptance. Together, they face the end with courage and love, determined to hold onto each other until the very last moment.— Location: EARTH-789 —Amanda Waller, a formidable figure with a commanding presence, walks through a park in New York City, her expression stoic yet troubled. She is dressed in a sharp suit, a symbol of her authority as a high-ranking member of the FBI.Amanda Waller (thinking): Another day, another crisis to handle. Sometimes I wonder if it's all worth it.Suddenly, Amanda's thoughts are interrupted by the sound of a baby crying in the distance. She turns her head sharply towards the source of the noise, her instincts kicking in.Amanda's eyes widen in disbelief as she sees a baby, alone and crying, lying on a bench in the park. She rushes over to the infant, concern etched on her face.Amanda Waller: What in the world...A close-up of the baby, tears streaming down his cheeks as he wails for attention. He looks up at Amanda with big, frightened eyes, reaching out his tiny hands.Amanda scoops up the baby, cradling him gently in her arms. Despite her tough exterior, she can't help but feel a surge of compassion for the helpless child.Amanda Waller: Who would leave a baby all alone like this?Amanda glances around the park, searching for any sign of who might have abandoned the baby. Her expression hardens with determination as she resolves to get to the bottom of this.With the baby held securely in her arms, Amanda marches purposefully out of the park, her mind already racing with plans to track down whoever is responsible for this heartless act.As she strides away, a sense of protectiveness washes over Amanda. No matter what challenges lie ahead, she is determined to ensure that this innocent child receives the care and attention he deserves.Amanda Waller: You're safe now, little one. I won't let anyone harm you.Amanda Waller carefully examines the baby, checking for any signs of distress or injury. As she does, she notices a small name tag pinned to the baby's clothing. It reads "Zack Summer." Amanda furrows her brow in confusion at the unusual name.Amanda mutters to herself, her expression a mix of disbelief and bemusement.Amanda Waller: Zack Summer? Who on earth would give you such an ugly name?Despite her initial reaction, Amanda's maternal instincts kick in as Zack starts crying again. She quickly shifts into "mother mode," her focus entirely on comforting the distressed infant.Amanda cradles Zack close to her chest, speaking to him in a soothing tone as she tries to calm his cries.Amanda Waller: Shh, there there, Zack. Everything's going to be alright. You're safe now.As Zack's cries gradually subside, Amanda's features soften, her heart melting at the sight of the vulnerable baby in her arms.Amanda gazes down at Zack with a newfound sense of responsibility and warmth, her maternal instincts overriding any doubts or concerns.With Zack nestled securely in her arms, Amanda sets off determinedly, her resolve strengthened by the need to protect and care for the helpless child.Amanda Waller: Alright, Zack. Let's get you somewhere safe. We'll figure out who you belong to, and why they left you here.Meanwhile, in another part of the park, Jeffrey the baby landshark wanders around, his nose twitching as he sniffs the air, searching for something or someone.Jeffrey pauses, tilting his head to the side as he catches a familiar scent on the breeze. His eyes widen in realization as he recognizes the scent of his friend, baby Zack.With newfound determination, Jeffrey sets off, following the scent trail as it leads him deeper into the park.Jeffrey's nose twitches furiously as he picks up the scent again, growing stronger with each step he takes.As Jeffrey continues his search, he encounters various obstacles along the way a fallen tree branch, a group of curious squirrels but he presses on undeterred.Finally, Jeffrey reaches a bench where he finds Zack's scent is particularly strong. He sniffs around the area, trying to piece together what happened.With a frustrated growl, Jeffrey looks around, puzzled by Zack's sudden disappearance. He knows that something isn't right, and he's determined to get to the bottom of it.Jeffrey's determination only grows stronger as he resolves to find his friend, no matter what it takes. With a determined gleam in his eyes, he sets off once again, his mission clear to reunite with baby Zack and ensure his safety.-Year 1993-A 5-year-old Zack Summer, wearing a party hat, approaches his adopted mother, Amanda Waller. He tugs at her sleeve, excitement evident in his eyes.Zack: Mommy, can I go to the lake alone? It's my birthday today!Amanda looks up from the present, a fond smile on her face as she gazes at Zack.Amanda: Well, Zack, it's your birthday today. I suppose you can go to the lake, but be careful, okay?Zack's eyes light up with excitement at the prospect of exploring the lake on his own. He nods eagerly, ready for his adventure.Zack: Okay, Mommy! I'll be super careful!Amanda watches with a mix of pride and apprehension as Zack rushes out the door, his birthday hat bobbing as he goes.Amanda: Have fun, sweetheart. And remember, stay safe!Outside, Zack skips along the path leading to the lake, his heart filled with joy on his special day. The sun shines brightly overhead, casting a warm glow on the world around him.Zack: Yay! This is gonna be the best birthday ever!Zack arrives at the edge of the lake, a wide grin on his face as he takes in the beauty of the shimmering water.Zack: Wow, it's so pretty!Zack sits down by the water's edge, dipping his fingers into the cool, clear water. He giggles with delight at the sensation.Zack: Whee! This is so much fun!Zack sits by the edge of the lake, happily splashing his feet in the water. Suddenly, he notices a dorsal fin slicing through the surface, sending a shiver of fear down his spine.Zack: Huh? What's that?Zack's eyes widen with fear as he realizes what it is. He scrambles to his feet, panic rising in his chest.Zack: A shark?!In a rush of adrenaline, Zack turns and sprints back towards the shore, his heart pounding in his ears.Zack: Mommy! Help!Just as Zack reaches the safety of the shore, he turns around to find himself face to face with Jeffrey, the landshark, who greets him with an affectionate lick.Zack's fear melts away as he recognizes his friend Jeffrey. He giggles with relief, feeling silly for being scared.Zack: Oh, it's just you, Jeffrey! You scared me for a moment there!Jeffrey wags his tail happily, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he nuzzles Zack affectionately.Zack reaches out and hugs Jeffrey tightly, grateful for his friend's presence and reassurance.Zack: Thanks for always looking out for me, Jeffrey. You're the best!Inside the house, Amanda Waller, her expression tense with frustration, paces back and forth as she speaks into her phone, her voice laced with urgency.Amanda: What do you mean you haven't traced his parents yet? It's been six years, for heaven's sake!Amanda's agent responds on the other end of the line, his voice crackling with static as he tries to explain the situation.Agent: I understand, Ms. Waller, but there's been no trace of any biological relatives. We've exhausted all our resources.Amanda's frustration boils over, her tone sharp as she demands answers.Amanda: Explain to me how a child just appears out of thin air, with no records, no family, nothing! This is unacceptable!The agent hesitates for a moment before tentatively offering a possible explanation, though it sounds far-fetched even to him.Agent: Well, there's one theory... It's possible that Zack isn't from this universe. He might be from another reality altogether.Amanda scoffs at the suggestion, dismissing it as absurd.Amanda: Another universe? Don't be ridiculous. This isn't some science fiction nonsense.Despite Amanda's skepticism, the agent persists, his voice growing more earnest.Agent: I know it sounds far-fetched, but it's the only explanation that makes sense. Perhaps Zack was brought here through some kind of interdimensional rift.Amanda's brow furrows in frustration as she struggles to comprehend the agent's words.Amanda: Interdimensional rifts... Honestly, I've heard enough. Just keep looking. There has to be some kind of clue out there.With a sigh of resignation, Amanda ends the call, her mind swirling with unanswered questions and unresolved mysteries surrounding Zack's origins.Amanda's frustration momentarily subsides as she recalls the reason for her errand. She checks the time on her watch, realizing she's running late.Amanda: Ugh, I almost forgot. I need to pick up a cake for Zack's birthday.A determined look crosses Amanda's face as she grabs her keys and heads for the door.Amanda: No time to waste. I'll make sure Zack's birthday is special, even if the rest of this situation is a mess.As she steps outside, Amanda mentally runs through her checklist, making sure she has everything she needs for the celebration.Amanda: Cake, candles, presents... I've got this.Amanda locks the door behind her and strides purposefully down the path, her mind already focused on the task ahead.Amanda: Zack's going to have the best birthday ever, no matter what.Now back at the lakeshore with Zack and Jeffrey, sits cross-legged on the grassy ground, a small pile of grass in his hand. Jeffrey watches him curiously, his tail wagging with anticipation.Zack giggles mischievously as he offers a strand of grass to Jeffrey, who sniffs it tentatively, unsure of what to make of the strange offering.With a grin, Zack encourages Jeffrey to try the grass, holding it out towards him with a playful expression.Zack: Here you go, Jeffrey! It's delicious!Jeffrey, still unsure but trusting of Zack, tentatively nibbles on the grass, his eyes widening in surprise at the taste.Despite Jeffrey's initial hesitation, he soon begins to munch on the grass with enthusiasm, clearly enjoying the impromptu snack.Zack watches with delight as Jeffrey happily chomps away on the grass, feeling a sense of joy in their simple shared moment.With a contented smile, Zack leans back on his hands, soaking in the warmth of the sun and the happiness of the day.Zack: This is the best birthday ever, Jeffrey! Thank for being my friend.Jeffrey pauses from his grazing to give Zack an affectionate nuzzle, his eyes sparkling with friendship and loyalty.Jeffrey: (Nuzzle)Zack's joyous expression suddenly twists into one of pain as he clutches his head, his eyes squeezed shut in agony. A bright, glowing energy begins to emanate from his eyes.Zack: Ahh! My eyes!A blinding burst of optic energy shoots forth from Zack's eyes, streaking up into the sky in a dazzling display of power.Zack watches in shock and awe at what he has just unleashed.Zack: I... I have power!A wave of fear washes over Zack as he realizes the implications of his newfound abilities. He trembles, his heart pounding with uncertainty.Zack: But... but Mommy might not like this. She might be scared of me.Torn between excitement and fear, Zack wrestles with the decision of whether to keep his powers a secret from his beloved mother.Zack: I can't tell her. She'll hate me...With a heavy heart, Zack resolves to keep his abilities hidden, fearing rejection and misunderstanding from the one person he cares about most.Zack: I won't tell Mommy about my powers. It's better this way.As Zack looks up at the sky, his eyes still glowing faintly with residual energy, a sense of loneliness washes over him, knowing that he must bear this burden alone.Zack: I'll just have to learn to control them on my own.Zack's gaze shifts towards Jeffrey, his loyal companion by his side. Despite his fear of rejection, a glimmer of hope flickers in Zack's eyes as he considers confiding in his pet.Zack: Maybe... maybe I could introduce you to Mommy, Jeffrey.Zack reaches out to gently stroke Jeffrey's head, a tentative smile playing at the corners of his lips.Zack: She loves you almost as much as I do. Maybe she'll understand.Jeffrey looks up at Zack with bright eyes, sensing his inner turmoil and offering silent support.Zack takes a deep breath, steeling himself for the possibility of his mother's reaction, but also finding courage in the bond he shares with Jeffrey.Zack: Alright, Jeffrey. Let's go tell Mommy together.Zack and Jeffrey arriving home, the sun beginning to set as they walk up the path to their house. Zack carries Jeffrey in his arms, a determined expression on his face.As they approach the front door, Zack's heart races with anticipation, knowing that he's about to reveal his secret to his mother. He takes a deep breath, readying himself for what's to come.Suddenly, the door swings open, revealing Amanda standing there with a bright smile, holding a beautifully decorated birthday cake with six candles.Amanda: Surprise, Zack! Happy 6th birthday!Zack's eyes widen in shock as he sees the cake, his heart swelling with gratitude and love for his mother's thoughtfulness.Zack: Mommy, you... you remembered!Just as Zack begins to relax and enjoy the moment, his eyes land on Jeffrey, who stands beside him, tail wagging excitedly.In an instant, Zack's expression shifts from joy to fear as he realizes the potential consequences of introducing Jeffrey to his mother.Amanda notices Zack's sudden change in demeanor and follows his gaze, her eyes widening in surprise as she sees Jeffrey standing there.Amanda's surprise quickly turns to fear as she takes a step back, her hand flying to her mouth in shock.Amanda: Zack, what... what is that thing?!Zack's heart sinks as he realizes the mistake he's made in bringing Jeffrey home without preparing his mother.Zack: Mommy, wait! He's my friend, I promise he won't hurt you!Amanda's fear begins to give way to understanding as she looks into Zack's pleading eyes, seeing the sincerity and love in his gaze.Amanda: Zack, I... I trust you, but... but please, just... just keep it away from me.Zack nods solemnly, understanding his mother's fear and vowing to protect her no matter what.Zack: I will, Mommy. I promise.A tense silence fills the room as Zack and Amanda sit down at the table, the birthday cake untouched between them. Jeffrey hovers nearby, sensing the tension in the air.Amanda clears her throat, breaking the silence as she tries to make sense of the situation.Amanda: Zack, honey, since when do you have a... a pet?Zack shifts uncomfortably in his seat, his mind racing as he searches for the right words to explain.Zack: Um... well, Mommy, I... I found Jeffrey last year. He's been my friend ever since.Amanda's eyebrows furrow in confusion as she tries to piece together the puzzle.Amanda: Found him? Where, exactly?Zack hesitates, unsure of how much to reveal about Jeffrey's origins. He looks to Jeffrey for guidance, silently pleading for help.Zack: Um... just... just around, Mommy. He was lost and needed someone to take care of him.Amanda studies Zack's face, sensing that there's more to the story than he's letting on. She decides to let the matter drop for now, choosing to focus on celebrating Zack's birthday instead.Amanda: Alright, sweetheart. We can talk about it later. Let's just enjoy your birthday for now.Zack breathes a sigh of relief, grateful that his mother isn't pressing the issue further. He smiles weakly, feeling a mixture of guilt and relief.Zack: Okay, Mommy. Thanks.Zack eats his food with Jeffrey nearby, his mind wanders, still wrestling with the decision of whether to reveal his powers to his mother.Zack (thinking): I wonder if I should tell Mommy about my power...Zack's thoughts turn hesitant as he considers the potential consequences of sharing his secret.Zack (thinking): ...maybe not now. She's already scared enough with Jeffrey around.Despite his internal struggle, Zack pushes aside his worries for the time being, focusing instead on enjoying the meal in front of him.Zack (thinking): Besides, I'm hungry. Let's just enjoy the moment.Zack digs into his food with gusto, savoring each bite as he shares the meal with Jeffrey, his loyal companion by his side.— AFTERMATH (YEAR EARLY 2000)—13 Yrs old Zack Summers sat on the floor, his loyal pet landshark Jeffrey nestled beside him. He looked down at his newly completed suit, a mixture of blue and yellow with a distinctive skullcap and pirate boots. Zack's mind raced with excitement and determination, but one thing eluded him the perfect hero name.Zack: (thinking aloud) Alright, Jeffrey, it's time to choose a name. This suit won't mean much without a name to go with it.He gently placed Jeffrey on the nearby table and grabbed a pen and paper. As he pondered, he scribbled down various names, each one seeming less fitting than the last.Zack: Blue Man? Nah. Mr. Spandex? Definitely not.Minutes turned into a futile search for inspiration until Zack turned to Jeffrey, hoping his pet would offer some insight.Zack: (sighing) Jeffrey, bark if you like any of these names.But Jeffrey remained silent, clearly unimpressed with Zack's suggestions.Zack: (frustrated) Come on, buddy. I need your help here.Zack racked his brain, desperate for a name that would resonate. Finally, in a moment of clarity, he spoke.Zack: Cyclops.Jeffrey perked up, letting out a series of excited barks.Zack: (smiling) Cyclops, huh? I think we have a winner.To Be Continue...