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Weber's World

"Wait, wait, waiiiiiiit! I thought we were all done here? We have a light shield around Weber's World, why do we still have to go patrolling?"

Invisible Brainiac tried hard not to roll his eyes at Spelling Bee's question. "The shield can keep everything out - but it can't destroy anything already inside. And it keeps us trapped here, unless we teleport out. And those two kids that Circe found are pretty tired. So, unless you want something to bite your head off while you're asleep, we'd better make sure there aren't any ghouls left on the planet. Okay?"

"Okay, okay! But maybe you'll reward our hard work with some dinner?" Spelling Bee batted her eyelashes sweetly.

"Maybe," IB said as he flew on ahead.

"Man, she sure can be annoying," Blaze whispered.

"Yeah, but she has a good heart, so I don't want to be too mean to her," IB whispered back. "Besides, she did try to keep me from getting killed."

"Oh, we all did," Blaze whispered back with a grin.

"WATCH OUT!"

"Huh?" asked Blaze as a body flew past them. IB quickly caught her in a light cushion.

"Kinetix?"

"Well, good to see you boys. Thanks for the save. Now hurry - I left Kairos and Danger Damsel up ahead there!"

"Sigh, it was too much to ask for a simple day, huh?" Blaze said.

*************************************************

Danger Damsel ducked as she heard the tell-tale whoosh of metal through the air. She hesitated as she crouched down. How did you fight an invisible opponent?

Over on the other side, Kairos was straining. "Grife, just when I thought I had everything in my stasis field..."

Danger Damsel leaped over to Kairos' side. "Even their weapons are invisible. It's too bad Kinetix isn't here to back you up. Guess I'll have to do."

"But... you can't parry what you can't see!"

"No, but I can shield you from it - with my own body, if I have to."

"But, you're not even invulnerable!"

"I know, but we have no choice. Just cover as much of the area as you can."

"And while you do that, I'll cover you!" Blaze said as he cast a protective ring of fire around them.

"Nice save, Sara," IB said as he flew in with Kinetix and Spelling Bee in tow. "No need for you to be a martyr today, though."

"Is that coming from somewhere?" Spelling Bee said cheekily. Danger Damsel shot her a dirty look.

"So, we have invisible enemies eh? Looks like my expertise..." IB said as he waved his hands. "Ah, here we go, I can track the source of the bending of light and... Gotcha!"

"Oh boy... I almost wish you hadn't done that," Kinetix said as a small army of large, hairy humanoids stood revealed before them. They were extremely tall, probably 12 feet, and inexplicably were smoking cigars. And they had very pointed weapons.

"Eh, shouldn't take long to stop them, how fast can they... YAH!" Spelling Bee jumped back just in time - a long knife flashed through right where her throat had been.

"Overconfident much? Watch each others' backs," Danger Damsel yelled as she slashed through Spelling Bee's attacker. "We have too many opponents. We can't afford to get careless."

"Allow me to take a little pressure off of you," Kinetix said as she, with a wave of her hand, sent the lead ghoul crashing into a few others.

"Not bad," IB grinned. "The Emerald Empress herself could scarcely have done better." Kinetix gave him a curious look, as if she wanted to ask him about the Empress, but IB had already leaped into the fray.

The others quickly followed. Kinetix telekinetically disarmed a large group, while Blaze's flames made the weapons too hot for another group to hold. Spelling Bee's mechanical bees herded them together while Danger Damsel and Invisible Brainiac knocked them out with swords and laser lights. Kairos held the unconscious ones in her stasis field.

"Well, that was a nice little workout. Good job, team!" IB said with a smile.

"Good job?!!" an angry voice accosted them. The stunned heroes turned around to find a little old lady waving an umbrella at them. "You heroes have been fighting these things for days, and more and more of them still turn up! Why don't you stop them once and for all?"

"Ma'am, please, we're doing the best we can. We stopped more of them from coming into Weber's World..." IB said as he put up his hands.

"But what about the ones still here? We're just trying to live out our lives in peace, but we can't even get that! We didn't ask for any of this either," she said as she shook her umbrella at him. "Now that you've taken care of the big threats, why don't you get to making sure we're all safe here?!"

"I... I..." IB didn't quite have an answer to that.

*************************************************

As they flew back to the defense's headquarters, Blaze gently took IB's hand in his. "Hey, are you still thinking about what that old woman said?"

"How can I not? Maybe we're not doing enough."

"I haven't seen you sleep more than five hours a day in the past week. You are doing enough. We're just facing a very large problem and it's not easy to solve."

IB pulled Blaze closer as they flew onward. "I know, but... we really should come up with a final solution soon. I can't help feeling that we're only delaying the inevitable with our shield..."

The group flew on, quietly contemplating just how safe they all really were.

Weber's World


A golden sphere surrounded Weber’s World. The force field held fast. The Dark Oval forces, large and small, human, undead, and non-human swarmed around it like a frenzied hornets.

Beasts banged on the force field with tentacles and claws. They howled in frustration. Super powered ghouls flew in patterns seeking a way in. The human collaborating forces from various sectors held back, a battle-wagon released a volley of torpedoes. They exploded against the force field with an impressive vibration but the shield held fast.

………………………………

An anxious quiet had settled over Weber’s World. The LMB had returned from their mission and quickly put down any interloping servants of the Dark Lord that remained on the planet. The artificial planet itself seemed to gasp for air. The siege had taken a toll; buildings were shattered, streets clogged with rubble, and smoke filled the sky.

Jerry and Saturn Girl finally had time to track down certain spies within Weber’s World. Sadly, the jails were full and new arrangements needed to be made. Fortunately, Kar Em and Space Ranger could make cells rather quickly. They burrowed deep within the planet and left dozens of human and non human spies in trenches.

Reflecto looked up at “her” shield, shinning in the sky, she was in awe as another boom sounded from the Oval’s attempt to get in. She pushed her jaw length hair behind her ear and felt proud. She felt like she finally made. “There you go big brother, Hope you’re proud.”

Kent Shakespere looked over the duty roster, now that the force field was in place, he had taken to ordering members of the LMB to rest and eat. It was prudent, only a matter of time before they would be needed again. He saw something out of the corner of his eye, brilliant lights on the other side of the force field, like falling stars.

……………………………………………………….

Space near Weber’s World

The stars rained down on the Dark Oval. Washing away the blackness of hornets surrounding Weber’s World with fire.

Weber's World

The sky lit up. Reflecto shaded her eyes with her arm. “Please hold, please hold.”

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………....


Everyone on Weber’s World looked to the sky. Streaks of flame lit up the protective shield.

Kent Shakespere scrambled to the ad hoc war room they had set up in the main senate chamber. He burst into the room.

Rockhopper Lad, Crujectra, Kar Em, Invisible Brainiac, and Abin Quank stood around the center table. Their faces were pale. Kent anticipated that the fire in the sky involved some new attack method of the Dark Oval.

It was a frenetic scene, more and more members of the LMB rushed into the chamber. Blaze and Gear rushed in one by one, and Kalla Hykros and Lon rounded the corner to the door together.

“What is it? What’s happened?” Kalla Hykros demanded, imperious even to the legends of the LMBP.

Crujectra faced her, hair swaying and bosoms rising as she took a deep breath and swallowed.


“Power Boy. Power Boy is with us.”

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………


New Gods burst into the space above Weber’s World. They blazed in faster than light or teleported in with explosives “BOOMS!”.

The firmament rocked as the New Gods joined the battle.


Power Boy flew at the front. Dark Oval forces scattered as the front lines burst into flames as if disintegrating by the mere presence of the New Gods.

The Dark Oval lines retreated, clearing the orbit of Weber’s World.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Three large behemoths fly forward from the depths of the Dark Oval Horde.

One was a giant composed of insect like thousands. Another was an enormous monster of dozens of snakes. The third had three horned heads and an incredible muscular physique.


Power Boy was the first of the New Gods. He drew back, his right hand in the air above his head. Light and energy coalesced in his fist like lightning. All 300 hundred of the New Gods inhaled at the same time … and Power Boy threw the lightning.

The lightning ripped through the sky … and split … three times.

The three behemoths shattered in a burst of white-hot light.

Two were disintegrated instantly, the third, scattered into a thousand insects.

Power Boy drew back again, muscles rippling. Lighting formed, and unleashed, but this time, the light split a thousand times … and each bolt struck true.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Power Boy was nearly swept away. He felt the power and the emotion of the New Gods. They were all connected. Power Boy had to drive, he had to control the tide of power and emotion. Everything depended on it. He held his friends in his mind.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

It began.

The New Gods moved forward. As one, they held their hands up palms open. The front lines of the Dark Oval exploded. The first line of New Gods transmuted the Dark Oval to dust. With them, The New God telekinetics burst their Dark Oval enemies from within. The second wave of New Gods, skilled at energy use, fired into the Dark Oval horde.


…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….


Power Boy rode the cosmic winds. He wrestled the wave of energy he felt. His plan unfolded. Everything depended on it. He saw the New Gods engage the Dark Oval horde. He organized them by their proclivity. Transmuters and telekinetics went first, disintegrating or exploding their enemies. He paired them with those that were talented at being physically strong. If a Dark Oval enemy got too close, the strong New God stepped in and ripped them apart. Behind the front lines, the energy users fired blasts into the depths of their enemies.

The effect made for the Dark Oval horde being erased, pushed back, decimated into thin air.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Minutes ago


Lolita sat in the command chair of a United Planets battle ship. Her hands gripped the armrests nervously. She waited for the battle to begin. She trusted Power Boy … no that was wrong … she believed in him.

She saw the New Gods burn through the darkness of space from her pre-decided location. Lolita helmed a separate ship from Crusader and Maxx.

The plan was sound. The New Gods would attack the horde from one side while the UP attacked from another, with the LMB and the planet in between. Despite their numbers … the Dark Oval WOULD BREAK!

As the lights lit up and the fight began, Lolita leaned forward in her command chair,

“Engage the Dark Oval horde.” She said, her voice wavered but not with insecurity, it wavered with passion and power.

“Fire at will.”

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Crusader stood regally on the command deck of the flagship of the UP. He saw the Dark Oval horde light up as the New Gods began the culling.

He said passionately “FIRE!” and closed his fist for emphasis.

Maxx felt warm as Crusader launched a thousand volleys of UP missiles.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..


A calm strength washed over Weber’s World.

“Rise. Fight with us.” It said.

Rockhopper Lad felt a welcome passion and slammed his fist on the table of council hall. “NOW!”

And as one, the assembled defenders of Weber's World rose into the sky. LMBers, SMBers, Losers, Space Knights Templar, UP military personnel, volunteer soldiers. Even some conscripted Dark Oval army forces who had surrendered had joined in, happy to embrace freedom and good.

The surviving Lard Knights rose up as well. Though they could not rely on the Lard Force, they had their hearts and their skills.

Under Rockhopper Lad's command they all rose and took their places just under the shield, fanning out into two forces. Half would sandwich the Dark Army between Weber's World and the New Gods; half would attack the Dark Army between Weber's World and the UP Fleet led by Crusader and Lolita.

"This is it," Invisible Brainiac said excitedly. "Our allies have finally arrived. We can win. We will win!"

He looked around and saw that all of them agreed. They knew, and they believed, that they would triumph this day. Though their wits and courage had served them well until now, they also had pure raw power on their side.

Power Boy linked his mind briefly with them. Saturn Girl was astounded; the scale of the New Gods' telepathy was mind-numbing. "I must warn you, my friends. My fellow New Gods tell me there is a vile creature called the Dream-Eater. If it catches you, it can turn you to the dark side."

"Oh, that little thing?" Nightcrawler grinned. "We already took care of that."

Power Boy paused for a moment. "I can see in your minds, it is true. My brothers and sisters commend you. We have never seen any mortals do so well against the Dark Oval. Now please, add your power to ours!"

"Teleporters get ready," Rockhopper Lad commanded. "We must pass through the shield!"

"Hold on a second," Floating Foxlike Creature said. "There, I've tweaked the shield to allow us to teleport."

"Hey, you guys wanna say it together?" Invisible Brainiac asked with a big grin. "It just seems right, with all of us here."

And around him, everyone nodded their heads in assent. Hands crackled with energy; muscles flexed as they held weapons; and brothers- and sisters-in-arms shook hands with respect. This was to be a glorious day in the history of the United Planets, and of the LMB.

A hundred thousand voices raised as one, as the assembled warriors charged into battle.

<span style="font-size: 50px;">LET'S GO LEGIONNAIRES!</span>

and a second battle cry followed -

<span style="font-size: 50px;">Sweet Ass Sweet!</span>

The Battle of Weber’s World

The Dark Oval scattered like sand under the tide. The wave of New Gods crushed them, pushed them back, and wiped them away.

But there was nowhere for the Dark Oval armies to go. Behind them the United Planets fleet held the line. Beneath them, the LMB charged into the Dark Oval fighting with a desperate fury. It was nothing short of heroic.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………......

“CRUSH THEM!!!!!” Power Boy roared at the head of the New God pack. He burned, red flames all around him as he swung his mega rod furiously.
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...

Rockhopper Lad caught his breath. There was horror all around him. This was wrong, so wrong. How long had this battle been going on? It seemed like an eternity.

Several Lard Knights circled around him, protecting the LMB leader for the moment.

The armies of the Dark Oval were trapped. There was no alternative for them. Power Boy had planned this perfectly to crush them, not defeat them. The plan was successful at first, they made huge gains pushing and destroying the Dark Oval army. Now, the Dark Oval forces fought like cornered animals, even the zombies fought with a savage terror.

This was out of control.
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Hours later, the New Gods had disintegrated much of the Dark Oval armies. The enormous beasts of the Dark Oval were brought down with New God weapons or strength. Other beasts flew wildly escaping from the battle all together. Zombies and skeletons were shattered almost as an annoyance to the power of the superior New Gods.

The New Gods moved like a burning wave towards the rear lines of the Dark Oval forces, unstoppable.

Power Boy was filled with the New Gods power, it was a collective passion and energy. At the beginning of the battle he had pulled them to fight with this connection, now he was afraid he would be lost to the tidal wave of emotion and power.

He was losing his grip. Up until now the New Gods had flown like a flock or school of fish, in virtual unison made possible by their collective connection. As the New Gods approached the last remaining forces of the Dark Oval fleet, the New Gods scattered like furious ants.

A giant puetrified octopus took Power Boy’s indecision as an opportunity … it grabbed him from behind in a huge tentacle. Power Boy grappled with the octopus, pitting his mighty strength against the gigantic monster.

“Can’t get a grip … nass!” Power Boy tried a different tactic, firing his energy vision into the tentacle wrapped around him.

ZZZAACKKK!!

The Space-Octopus screamed in pain … but did not let go. It paniced, twisted and turned, spinning Power Boy around, they tumbled further and further away from the battle.

From afar, the giant octopus and Power Boy fell into the gravity of a nearby star. They looked like a small shadow against the light of the star.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Lolita brushed her hair out of her eyes. A light smoke and dim light permeated the bridge where she sat at command. Her battle ship had taken some damage but her quick thinking had kept it in the game. She looked at the view screen now, her intelligent mind putting together the pieces of the incredible devastation and chaos around her. The New Gods barrelled through the Dark Oval army, they crushed and scattered the enemy … they were almost towards the rear of the Dark Oval fleet towards … the human forces that manned the warships and supply ships. Lolita, and Crusader had been engaged in battling the Dark Oval fleet up till now but, the New Gods would finish them quickly. Her mind put data together quickly and a conclusion dawned on her almost at the same time a large New God waved a hand and transmuted a Dark Oval battle ship to dust.

“How many lives aboard that ship?” She asked to a subordinate almost in a daze.

“340 … no … 349”

Lolita sat back in her chair, she saw another New God barrel towards a Dark Oval ship smashing through it. The ship was nearly cut in two, it spun and tore apart under its inertia. It wavered and crashed into a U.P. ship, damaging it, and they both spun recklessly through space.

“Order the fleet to fall back.” She commanded.

“Shouldn’t we contact Crusader?” The pilot questioned.

“Order them to fall back NOW! Look at the screen man! We can’t fight in that!”

The bridge crew look at the mighty destruction happening before them on screen. New Gods ripped apart the largest and strongest of the Dark Oval ships like children tearing paper. The entire view screen was filled with explosions and energy displays. The New Gods manipulated the forces of the universe. It was blinding and maddening.

The pilot began to announce a retreat to the U.P. fleet.

Moments later, the U.P. ships had fallen back as best they could. Some were moving slower, being knocked about by the New Gods reckless destruction of the Dark Oval ships. Some unfortunate U.P. cruisers were adrift inside the horizon of destruction.

“How many of our own people would die because of this recklessness?” Lolita wondered. She thought of … killing and death. She blocked out the memories from her mind. She had to do what she did. This was different. She was against a stronger opponent with seconds to act. The human forces of the Dark Oval, collaborators and armies from the planets under its dominion … they stood no chance against the New Gods. This was murder.

The screen changed. The Dark Oval fleet was turning about, crippled ships spun and began to gather, moving away from the New Gods.

The withdrawal of the U.P. fleet had left an opening in space.

“What are they doing?” The young pilot asked. He had blonde hair and freshly scrubbed look about him, it made him seem innocent, Lolita thought.

“They’re running.” Lolita answered.

On the screen, the New Gods paid no mind, they chased after the retreating ships. They chased them down like cats hunting smaller and slower prey.

Lolita stood. She steeled herself. “If anyone would like to abandon ship, I am giving you the opportunity now, no questions asked, no repercussions. You have two minutes to get to an escape cruiser. After that, I am taking this ship in, between the Dark Oval retreat and the New Gods. There has been enough destruction. We’ve won the day, this killing is needless.”

The bridge crew looked around, several officers swallowed hard … and then the young pilot spoke. “I think I speak for everyone, we don’t need those two minutes. I have plotted a course Ma’am. On your command.”

Many of those on the bridge had been opposed to Belisarius and knew that Lolita had been a part of his demise, if not the exact details. They appreciated her.

Lolita felt moved with emotion, her voice almost cracked when she said …

“Engage the New Gods.”

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...

Lolita’s head spun as her ship plummeted across space. The last thing she remembered was moving her ship in between some angry pursuing New Gods and the retreating Dark Oval fleet. There was large one, his eyes glowed and a wave of the hand and her heroic gesture had her ship tumbling across space. She knew she should’ve fired first.

Her young pilot’s head banged roughly against the wall, as the ship tossed them from side to side. Lolita had to get control of the ship, she crawled forward against the g-forces of the fatal spin the ship was caught in. She had to reach the pilot controls …

And then it all just … stopped … gently.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………......

Crusader held Lolita’s ship in his power. “Now that THAT is sorted” Crusader turned his attention to the New Gods. Lolita’s intervention had paused their advance. The New Gods seemed confused, in disorder. There were some angry exchanges. It wasn’t clear who if anyone was in charge.

Crusader flew towards them, power building, ready for a fight.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………......

The LMB gathered opposite the New Gods. Crusader stared them down defiantly. The human forces of the Dark Oval were limping away. More and more members of the LMB joined the gathering in space. The destruction of the battle floated all around them, pieces of ships and bodies littered the space above Weber’s World.

Invisible Brainiac flew in, glowing brightly, this is not how he wanted this to end. Some of the LMB could match the New Gods in power, maybe even take out a few but … there were hundreds and they seemed frenzied by the battle. This was going to be a riot. “How many Daxamites do we have?” He asked himself nervously.

Finally, after long tense moments, Rockhopper Lad arrived. His regal chin held high. Members of the LMB parted as he floated by. He approached the New Gods. Some seemed to growl while others pulled themselves up, composed after the tension.


…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………......

“What is this? What is the meaning of all of this?” Rockhopper Lad asked, feathers in full ruffle.

From high up out in a space, a form rocketed towards the meeting. It flew down in between the pack of New Gods and the LMB fronted by Rockhopper Lad.

It was Power Boy, his suit blackened and torn from the battle, his face gaunt and serious.

Rockhopper Lad observed that this Power Boy was so different from the man he knew. That Power Boy was supportive, protective, and minor problems seemed to wash off of him like water. This Power Boy before him, only his skin was ageless, his eyes looked far older than before they parted. Was this Power Boy his friend and loyal warrior, or a new Power Boy, leader of a rival and very powerful faction.

Power Boy stared Rockhopper Lad straight in the eyes. And knelt.

“Rockhopper Lad, Leader of the Legion of Message Board Posters I present to you the New Gods.”

Several of the New Gods knelt immediately, including their apparently former leader, the tall blonde woman. Others waited to see who else would kneel. Some knelt nervously, the ones that pursued the Dark Oval forces most fiercely were last to kneel, visibly angry.

“You bring us an impressive force Power Boy.” Rockhopper Lad laid a hand on Power Boy’s shoulder, knelt and kissed him on the forehead.

And for Power Boy’s ears only “Rise, my friend.”


…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………......

Power Boy rose with a fist high above his head and turned to face the New Gods

“ALL HAIL ROCKHOPPER LAD LEADER OF THE LMB!!!”
The New Gods repeated the chant proudly.

And then someone started it (most likely Invisible Brainiac):

“LONG LIVE THE LEGION!!!”


The Legion of Message Board Posters and the New Gods alike chanted the phrase over and over again, defiant in the cold of space. Their voices sang.

<span style="font-size: 50px;">LONG LIVE THE LEGION!</span>

The exhausted defenders of Weber's World settled down to a long, long night of rest. There was still a lot of work to be done, such as attempting to contact the homeworlds of the Ambassadors, scaling up of relief efforts, and repair to vital infrastructure, but there was nothing urgent that couldn't wait after a good rest.

Danger Damsel was removing her innermost layer of armor in the locker room. She would have wanted to change in her own room, but she sorely needed a bath and didn't feel like walking the corridors in her towel, even if it was just in the female quarters.

When did she get so shy? Maybe after her time with Invisible Brainiac. After all, the boy had a way of seeing into your soul and really understanding you, yet remaining so mysterious. She felt so exposed and...

"That looks like very heavy armor. need some help?"

Danger Damsel turned around to see Kinetix walk out of her shower stall, fully dressed.

"Did you even shower at all?"

Kinetix laughed. "Psychokinesis. Would you like me to show you?"

At Sara's nod, Kinetix waved her hand and the armor peeled off her, leaving her inner clothes intact. Another wave, and the sweat and dirt coating Sara's face, neck and arms fell off onto the floor.

"Impressive," Sara said approvingly.

"And so were you, in battle. You really kept up with those uf us with powers. So... are you going to IB's thing later?"

Sara hesitated. She'd gotten the invitation, but wasn't really sure.

"Come on, it'll be fun! Angdar and I are going, and of course Blaze will be there. And even Infra Red Lass is going." Kinetix paused at Sara's expression. "Hey, I know it'll be hard seeing him doing... I mean, with... Ah, I just mean it seems like you two are getting along better now. And it'll be fun, just us younger ones."

"Well... if you'll go, I guess I will, too," Sara smiled. "And thanks."

"Awesome! See you there," Kinetix waved as Sara turned to enter a shower. Sara smiled as she began cleaning up. The water calmed her, and she felt she could finally wash her bitterness away.

Unbeknownst to her, another figure stumbled out of the cubicle beside where hers had been.

IB's having a party?! And I'm not invited?!!! were the figure's thoughts. He'll pay for this!

***********************************************

Spelling Bee stalked through the corridors of Weber's World, trying to find Kinetix. She was going to get to the bottom of this! Now, her bees had led her here...

"Are you sure we'll do that later? I'm not very flexible yet."

Spelling Bee raised her eyebrow. That was Angdar!But what were they talking about?

"Oh, I'm sure you'll be fine. You may not be able to stretch much, but you'll wow them with the other enhancements we made. Besides, just watching you stand there will make them all drool," Kinetix said playfully.

Spelling Bee's mind was whirring. Why did this all sound so... so...

She made up her mind to confront the couple now. Taking a deep breath, she rounded the corner...

and bumped into someone HARD.

"Ouch, watch where you're going!"

"Oh Kairos, sorry! I... I mean... I... hey, are you going anywhere tonight?"

Kairos raised an eyebrow and stepped back. She seemed to hesitate. "I... might. Why?"

"Oh, oh nothing. Just wondering if anyone might be throwing a secret party later? You know, a... a... an adult type party, with lots of... lots of crazy things happening, you know, the type that mommies and daddies do when they're in love and..."

"WHATever. I don't know what the hell you're talking about, and I don't think you do either," Kairos shook her head. "Jeez, maybe you'd better get a rest."

"Are you sure? Are you truly, absolutely, 100% sure?" Spelling Bee asked as she leaned forward.

"Hey, I told you I have no idea what you're talking about! You aint' even speaking Interlac," Kairos said. "Now I gotta go, okay?"

Spelling Bee was about to protest when she saw a trio of young men walk past. "Yeah sure BYE!" she said, leaving a puzzled Kairos muttering about space fever.

Spelling Bee's heart pounded as she sent a bee to eavesdrop on her quarry.

"Oh, I just can't wait to party with all of you again," Super Lad Kid smiled as put his arms around his two companions.

"Hell yeah, and now IB has a plus one!" Magnetic Kid smiled. "A very hot plus one!"

"IB's been working hard too," Catalyst King added. "He's all grown up now, and I bet he's grown up in EVERY way," he said with a wink.

"Bet you can't wait to find out," Magnetic Kid teased.

"Aw man," Super Lad Kid said. "With Cobie off who knows where, I'l be the only one of the old Festive Five to be single later."

"Hey now," Catalyst King said soothingly. "When have we ever let that stop us from having a good time? Besides, IB said singles and couples both welcome - there'll be plenty of both, guys and gals too!"

"Yeha, I'm sure you'll find something to enjoy yourself with," Magnetic Kid added.

"Hey, as long as there's booze, I'm sure I'll manage to have a good time," Super Lad Kid grinned. "Of course, you'll lend me your couch if I need it, right?"

The three continued along their merry way, oblivious to the bee transmitting their conversation to a now slack-jawed Spelling Bee. Oh my grife," she was thinking. "How could IB do such a thing?"

Spelling Bee used her bees to hover invisibly near the ceiling, outside the room IB had rented.
She just couldn't get her head around what was going to happen inside. She and IB had had some adventurous times, and she knew how crazy he could be, but this was almost unbelievable!

She was shaken out of her reverie by two deep voices.

"I can't believe we're finally going to get to try these tonight!" Blaze said. He was balancing quite a few heavy-looking boxes on his arm.

"Hey, we've been talking about this for a while, and it's quite a big step for us both," IB winked. "I'm glad we get to do this together."

IB balanced the boxes he was carrying on his left arm while fumbling with the keys using his right. Spelling Bee sighed as she watched him flex. How could this beautiful man waste himself so? She flared up as Blaze patted IB's butt playfully. Although Blaze was a breathtaking specimen himself, she couldn't help but think he was the bad influence.

"Wow, this room is even better than I expected!" Blaze said. Spelling Bee quickly sent in a drone to spy.

Her eyebrows climbed towards the back of her head as she checked the monitor to see what it could see. The entire floor was carpeted and the room's perimeter was lined with fluffy cushions. A large table to one side had an array of finger foods (she recognized Earth-style nachos, Tharrian popsicles, Venturan rainbow chips), and another table had an impressive selection of liquor (rare Earth tequila rose, Naltorian Sweet Dreams, Thanagarian Nectar, Imskian Expanding Ale among others). There was a large sound system and lights, and even what looked like a jacuzzi!

"So, you want to try these on for later?" IB's flirtatious voice teased Blaze.

"Mmmm, it would be a good idea to do a test run before anyone else arrives," Blaze's teasing voice replied. "I... hey! It's a bee!"

"Whoa, I'll take care of it. Wouldn't want it to sting your pretty skin," IB said.

Spelling Bee panicked. She had to get her spy out. She hissed into the microphone. "R-E-C-A-OOOOOOOOOOOOMPH!"

She barely stopped herself from crying out loud as something hit her stomach. She clutched it and looked down to see her bee flapping its wings forlornly.

"Nice swatting," Blaze said.

"Down, boy!" IB's voice sounded like he had been tickled. "I'm just practicing for later."

Their voices were drowned out as the door closed, and Spelling Bee realized the room was soundproof.

She hesitated. Should she confront them now before it started, or wait until she had evidence that they couldn't deny?

Her self-debate was cut short as Kinetix, Angdar Fel and Kairos (that lying hussy!) trooped up the hallway, arms full of boxes too. Bee could barely bear to imagine what awful things were inside.

"I'm glad Officer Ralph didn't give YOU any trouble," Kinetix said.

"Hey, I'm LMB now! He always says what a good job the team did with IB, so I guess he thinks I'll be a good girl from now on. But girls just wanna have fun, right? Besides, even if he'd asked I wouldn't have said... You know adults, spoiling our fun."

"Who knows... he might have wanted to join in," Angdar said with a perfect deadpan.

All three laughed as they entered the room.

Spelling Bee's eyes nearly climbed to the back of her head.

*************************************************

Thirty minutes had passed, and Spelling Bee was still debating with herself. No less than twenty-six sentients were now in that room. All were young, no more than twenty-eight sola-years; all were fit and attractive and had fought well in the Defense of Weber's World. And she just couldn't help thinking what so many young, athletic bodies could be doing.

IB and Blaze had even invited their exes, Danger Damsel and Nurse Tina. Weren't they afraid they'd be skewered? And the almost too-young Kairos, as well as a few couples besides Magnetic Kid and Catalyst King and Kinetix and Angdar!

She was debating how to enter when she heard two more voices come along. She froze as she realized who they were.

"Ya big stinker! I'm almost out of energy carrots because you made me wait so long!" Petty Officer Bugs chided.

"Excuuuuuuuuuse me for wanting to be clean and presentable tonight," Petty Officer Marvin replied. "Have to show off the moves, you know!"

Spelling Bee couldn't take it anymore. Bad enough IB was inside cavorting with so many humanoids, but to include a talking rabbit and a half-pint who looked like he belonged in a cartoon?

She rushed to the door as Petty Officer Marvin was about it close it. "Stop, all of you!" she shrieked at the top of her lungs. "For the love of the Super Moby Dick of Space, stop your depravity!"

Twenty-eight pairs of eyes stared open-mouthed at her, and she stared back. She zeroed in on IB and rushed to him. "Stop what you're doing! You're too good to waste yourself like this!"

"Bee... what are you talking about?" IB looked incredulous.

"This... this... this awful party of yours! Those toys, and all these people... I know you're sexy but you don't have to... to... to do things with all of them!"

"Bee... I will play on the XBox 36000 with whomever I want. I don't get what the big deal is."

Bee looked around dumbfounded, and realized everyone was fully clothed and were holding video game controllers.

"But... but... but... I thought..."

"You thought what?"

"You and Blaze were joking about trying out a lot of things..."

"Dance Dance Revolution 150," Blaze said as he stepped forward. "IB and I don't dance."

"And... and... someone was joking about being flexible..."

"Space Twister," Angdar volunteered. "It can be really hard to stretch."

"But... but... why wouldn't you tell me?!" Bee rounded on Kairos.

Kairos shrugged. "IB said it was invite only, best to keep mum."

Spelling Bee turned back to IB. "But... but... all the secrecy, I thought you were doing something nuts. And why didn't you invite me?!"

IB glared at her. "Okay, first, I wanted to keep the numbers manageable. I don't want to run out of food - you know how hard it was to get these with the recent war? And second, I did - check your phone, will you?"

Spelling Bee gulped as she fished out her omnicom. There were three missed calls from IB, and two messages.

"Oh griiiiiiiiiife. I feel so stupid," Spelling Bee buried her face in her hands.

"Hey," IB said as he stepped up. "Just a misunderstanding. Tell ya what, you can have the first shot!"

Spelling Bee smiled as she gulped down her drink. That was the last thing she could clearly remember about the night, as she passed out almost immediately.

IB shrugged as Blaze looked on in concern. "She always did have a weakness for liquor. Hey, who wants to play Taboo?"

The party was over, and everyone had left slightly intoxicated and extremely happy.

The room was clean again (not hard when your host can split into 7 selves), and Spelling Bee and all the other drunk guests were back in their rooms with a note from Nurse Tina telling them to take the pill she'd left and not call her in the morning - she'd be sleeping.

Blaze laid back in bed and sighed. "Mmmm, that was a good night. And dancing in public isn't so bad..."

"... when you have someone to look stupid with?" IB finished. They both laughed.

"So," Blaze started as he traced a finger on IB's chest, "I should really thank you for this lovely time."

"I'd like that," IB said as he leaned in for a kiss...

... when they were interrupted by a knock on the door.

"Ohh, now what?" Blaze said crossly as he jumped up. He opened the door to find one of the boys who'd been at the party earlier. Blaze remembered eyeing him, but he wasn't in the mood now. "Yes, what do you need?"

The guy smiled as he leaned against the doorframe. "Hi, Blaze. IB introduced us a while ago, but he didn't use my code name. I'm from Earth-4, and they call me Salad-Tosser Lad. IB told me to head back here."

Blaze raised an eyebrow as IB slipped up behind him and whispered in his ear. "Surprise, hon."

Blaze's grin lit up as he grabbed Salad-Tosser Lad's arm. "Well, what are we waiting for?"

************************************************
Blaze and Salad-Tosser Lad were getting acquainted when another knock came on the door. IB patted him on the shoulder. "My turn."

A second later, IB called out. "Hon, it's for you!"

Blaze sighed as he stood up. "Sorry, STL."

At the door, Blaze found a Durlan named Eeyan whom he had met earlier, again at the party. "Hi, Blaze. IB invited me over. We got to talking a while ago and found you both wanted to try some things that I wanted to try too..." the Durlan said as it quickly flowed into a new form - a voluptuous women with slanty eyes and long black hair.

As the door closed, Blaze couldn't help but grin even more.

*************************************************

Blaze was really enjoying chatting with Eeyan and SLT when yet another knock came on the door. This time, he looked over at IB and gave a mock-frown. "What, you didn't think we had enough company?"

Blaze strode over to the door and said, "Well come on in, you..." He paused when he took in the site.

In the doorway were six of the young men they'd met when Chace was arrested.

"Hi Blaze, I'm Park," grinned one with chinky eyes and a mop of black hair that contrasted with his fair skin.

"And I'm Rain," said a second who had the same eyes as the first one, with a darker skin tone.

"I'm Ian," said the one with large liquid eyes, fair white skin and rugged stubble. His smile almost melted Blaze on the spot.

"Johnron," said the next, who looked like Earth Southeast Asian and had impressive ears and what Blaze thought was a cute butt.

The fifth one stepped up, and Blaze couldn't help but notice he had the same skin tone and eyes that IB had. "I'm Mario."

"I'm also named Chace," smiled the last, the tanned one with brownish-blonde hair. "The other Chace and I used to joke about it before I found out he was a no-good bastard."

"Well, why don't you come in and we can talk about what a bastard he was," Blaze smiled.

"Hey all," IB said as he emerged holding a bottle of tequila and a sly wink. "Anyone wanna play king's cup? Each card value in the deck has a corresponding required action, and the last one to do it has to drink a shot. We can change the actions if you want."

Blaze smiled as the six new arrivals seated themselves with SLT and Eeyan at the table. As IB explained the rules, Blaze's grin just kept getting bigger and bigger.

*************************************************

It was early in the morning, and their eight guests had left. Blaze yawned and hugged IB. "Aw hon, that was the most fun night I've had in ages. Thank you for surprising me, my sexy little baby."

IB mock pouted. "Hmph, you seemed to enjoy chatting with this Mario guy a lot."

Blaze tenderly kissed IB's neck. "Oh hon, I only did that because he reminded me of you - but you're way hotter!"

IB puffed his chest out. "I'll say, and don't you forget it! Now, be a good boy and rest while I go brush my teeth."

Blaze settled back into bed and closed his eyes. A moment later, IB pulled him up. "What's up, honey... Oh."

"See anything you like?" IB smiled as all seven of his selves stood before Blaze. Each was wearing a different pair of shorts.

IB Green sidled up to Blaze and pushed him back down onto the bed. "And here is where I show you that I'm still the best, hottest boy for you."

Blaze trembled as he closed his eyes. "Go easy on me, will you? I don't think I can handle seven times you!"

"You'll have to. Now hush," IB Green said as all seven of his selves closed in.

Invisible Brainiac Green woke up as the sunlight streaked in through the window. He sat upright and looked at his six selves strewn all over the room, and at Blaze, sleeping soundly in the middle of the bed.

He smiled. Poor Blaze needed eight hours of sleep a night to function - and likely more after the "workout" he'd gotten!

He slowly stood up. There was much that needed to be done.

Time was he'd have felt guilty about celebrating the end of a battle with a wild party. But he'd been in enough large-scale battles like this one to know that people just needed to blow off steam after seeing so much death and destruction. And the battle may have been won, but there was still a war to be fought.

He staggered slowly and checked his messages. Jerry had replied to his query by sending the LMB leadership a list of the fallen. IB's heart sank at each one.

Brave, noble Tomar-Te.
Dev-Em, proud family man who would never see his kids again.
Poor Disaster Boy, who finally found his place in the world for the briefest of moments before his death.
One of Sir John's bodies... would the poor man ever be whole again?
Taur-El, who may still live... may. And Nike and Atomik, who definitely would not.

And many more, like the nephew of one of the ambassadors... Ambassador Relnic, was it? And so many others, young soldiers holding a weapon for the first time, and innocents who never had...

IB closed his eyes and wiped away the tears that were forming.

But they had work to do.

He checked his messages again. There was one from Rockhopper Lad, in reply to his question:

Dear IB,

Thank you for your initiative. Yes, you are right. I believe it is time for the Fellowship to meet again, and just the Fellowship for now.

Would you assist me in getting everybody together? We can use the room we used when it all began.

Sincerely,

Rockhopper Lad

IB couldn't believe they'd all come so far since it first began, that time when he'd been waiting - invisibly - in that room.

He was grateful they'd assembled such a great group. They wouldn't have come that far otherwise.

His keen mind could picture where everyone was that time, when Cobalt Kid and Lard Lad were briefing everybody... He tried not to worry about them. They must be alright. Nothing could outmaneuver those two... right?

He shook his head. No time to speculate. He quickly drafted a message to the Fellowship members to meet in six hours at the "same place", and encrypted it so only those with the password could open.

Then he mentally went through the list of people to send it to -

Lolita.
Rockhopper Lad, and Hywie the Wonder Beagle.
Power Boy.
Spellbinder.
Cleome.
Hrun.
Time-Teller Lad.
Kalla Hrykos.
Timber Wolf.
Shark Lad.
Helena Handbasket.
Kent Shakespeare.

IB thought for a second, then added Juj. Though he hadn't been present at that meeting, he had definitely been in on the whole thing from the beginning. He left the Covenant members out of it, though - Helena was already there to represent them, and they hadn't been privy to the rest of the plans.

The only ones absent were Cobalt Kid, Lard Lad... and Tempest. He really hoped she was okay. Her enchantment had saved his life, and she was his friend, too.

He read it again, then clicked send.

This was one thing he'd have to leave Blaze out of, for now. He loved Blaze with all his heart, but...

The Fellowship was a unique bond. It had to be only them.

A reformed Invisible Brainiac slipped out of the room he shared with Blaze. IB had left Blaze a note that he had an important meeting to attend, and "I'll debrief you later, hon So get ready!"

He knew Blaze would understand.

Outside, the corridors were a flurry of activity. Not as crowded as they were before, but diplomats, administrators, military leaders, relief workers, medical staff and high-ranking LMBers, SMBers and allies were rushing to and fro. These were the people who knew preparations would have to be made.

IB turned a corner and smiled to see Lolita. "Heyyyy!"

"Hey yourself," she smiled as they hugged. "Listen, I'm busy right now, but I got your message. Let's catch up before or after?"

IB checked his watch. "I'm already drafting a message with everything you need to know before, so 15 minutes before so I can brief you? Then dinner after for personal stuff?"

"You got it. You so have to tell me all about your new boyfriend. You two make a good couple, from what I've heard," Lolita winked.

IB blushed despite himself. He'd had the biggest crush on Lolita way back. "And you... if you want to talk about everything," IB pointedly looked her in the eye so she knew he was referring to her argument with Cobie and her handling of Belisarius, "you know I'm all ears."

Lolita looked at him so he knew that she knew what he meant. "Of course. You're one of the best listeners I know. IB. Thank you, I mean it."

The two hugged again, the kind of hug that only two very good friends could give each other.

As he rounded the next corner, IB chanced upon Jerry. He was looking very unhappy, and poring through omnicom after omnicom.

IB stepped closer. "Jerry, how are you doing? Need any help with the memorials or the relief efforts?"

Jerry dropped the omnicom he was reading and gripped IB's forearms. "Yes, PLEASE! I don't understand how I got roped into this. You know Rocky, he asks you in the nicest way so you just can't say no, and BAM! He's got me and Power Boy doing sprocking desk work! I swear he's secretly a telepath!"

IB didn't know whether to laugh at poor Jerry's haggard look or cry because he knew exactly what he meant about Rocky. He mustered his best sympathetic voice. "Aw Jerry, just means Rocky really trusts you. Tell you what, I can spare five of me to lead relief efforts around, how's that? And I already spoke with Saturn Girl and Harbinger. They should ping you any moment and volunteer to help with the memorials."

Jerry jerked his head as a ping! went off in his omnicom. "Please, IB, please take a look at it. If it's one more request to send a specific LMBer because "he or she is just my favoritest ever," shoot me in the head!"

"Relax, Jerry. It's Saturn Girl, says you can send her the updated list of casualties. She'll get the services organized so you can concentrate on relief efforts."

"Oh thank you thank you THANK YOU! You don't know how much this means to me!"

IB disengaged himself gently from Jerry with a "Five of me will see you in a couple hours," and walked off before he'd get crushed. He began tapping on his omnicom. Mentally running through the list of LMBers and allies, he picked the fifty or so he felt were most inclined to help out and asked them to meet in the Grand Hall in exactly 3 hours so they could organize relief parties.

As he rounded another corner, he dodged just in time as a fist punched through the air where his nose had been.

"I've been fooled by that too many times in training, Peebz," IB smiled at his friend.

"I always did tell everyone but you that you were a fast learner," Power Boy smiled back. "How have you been? Besides having lots and lots of fun, you naughty boy, you?"

"Hey, they are many good teachers in the LMB," IB winked. "And Kid Gravity says I picked the best to learn from, if you know what I mean. Good choice, by the way."

"Not as good as yours. True love like that is hard to find. Now, I'll see you at the meeting. First, I have to go make sure my brothers and sisters do not get bored."

"Maybe you can convince them to help with rebuilding? Their transmutation powers will come in handy. We're meeting with Jerry in a couple hours..."

"Done. Even one of us will be sufficient for this world, but we must make haste. I'll send a half-dozen, at least."

IB waved back as walked on. Before he went too far, no less than Rockhopper Lad and Spellbinder intercepted him. "Doing the rounds, eh, IB? What have you found out?"

IB thought for a moment, then grinned. "Can't fool you, huh? No reanimated dead since we destroyed the Dream-Eater, so it looks like we contained all the particles. The UP military is 100% behind Crusader now. It looks like our optimism is finally rubbing off on the Earth-4 contingent - even their Danny Blaine and Hugh Taylor were seen popping a couple beers. Pov, Quis and Reboot are coming around with regards to Kalla, so I expect the rest will follow suit. The Lard Knights still don't know why they powered up the ghouls, but their powers seem to be working well otherwise. Everything's been happening so fast that most people haven't quite realized just how many New Gods are on-planet, and I'm sure you, Princess, and Kent are seeing to it the politicians don't. And many of our old-time teammates are beginning to see this as a sort of grand reunion, and they're confident all the power and experience we've amassed will see us through to the end."

Rocky smiled and shook IB's hand. "I told you not to underestimate his observational skills, my dear Princess."

Spellbinder smiled back. "I believe I told you the same, my dear Eudyptes. I was there when we admitted him, and I know very well how much attention he pays to detail. Right, IB?"

IB tried hard not to blush as he nodded his thanks. He quickly excused himself, and turned invisible once he rounded the corner. There was so much more to be done, and not enough time in which to accomplish it all.

Weber’s World
The United Planets

There was cheering in the streets. There was smiling and laughing. There was weeping and crying. And all around them, there was chaos. For two full days, chaos reigned as the Legionnaires, UP politicians and citizens of Weber’s World tried to reclaim some semblance of order to figure out where to go from here.



“Mikaal, thank the heavens,” said Spellbinder as she walked over to her brother to give him a tight hug. Dropping her guard for a moment, she did not care who saw her hug her brother and bury her face into his shoulder, though she would not need to worry, as none around her gave it a second thought.

Crusader had returned to Weber’s World at the head of the UP military, and played a crucial role in saving the day. Now, like his sister, he would have to play his role in restoring the UP government. “Glad to see most of us are alright, Crujeckie,” he replied. “Though poor Dev…”

Spellbinder nodded at that. Approaching from nearby, Kent Shakespeare patted Crusader on the shoulder. He too was playing his own part. He turned now to the Prime Minister of the UP, Maya adi Lva. “The government continues to function,” he said firmly. “The danger has passed, and the Ambassadors are returning immediately. Those who stayed are in the chambers now, still in session.”

“Excellent,” she replied. Then, more crudely, added, “be sure the media knows exactly which Ambassadors stayed and which ones fled.” She had been issuing orders non-stop since the battle began to turn in their favor. She would not waste a nano-second. She turned to Crusader. “Then Belisarius is…?”

“Dead,” he replied. “Your assassins did their job,” he added, though he could not hide his disgust.

“Good,” said Maya adi Lva, not attempting to hide for a second her satisfaction. She turned to Ambassador Mirenna Helene. “Well done, Mirenna. You’re agents will be given high honors for this. The order comes directly from me, so it will be perfectly legal. I will ensure word of this is spread throughout the military machine so there are no reprisals.”

Mirenna nodded her head, already knowing this was being done. “And now?” she said. “What is next?”

Everyone was quiet for a moment at the question. Spellbinder stiffened, and Crusader knew her thoughts were with Cobalt Kid, who had not turned up with everyone else.

The Prime Minister answered in a very measured way. “Now I’d like the LMB leadership to meet with me as soon as possible. We can discuss the counter-attack. The danger has passed, but I’m sure these Legionnaires have some sort of plan for destroying this Dark Lord.”



Lolita sat, as if in a daze, staring at the mass of sentients all around her. Entire city streets had been turned into makeshift hospitals as the sick and injured were cared for. Paramedics, some genuine and others volunteering, did their best to help the never-ending stream of patients being brought to them.

“You should go see your friends,” said Zhiya from the bed. Her tone was soft. “And get some rest. You have not slept in days.”

Lolita half-smiled. “You’re the one in bandages and in a space-bed. I’ve been waiting for you to doze off.”

Zhiya extended her hand and put it in Lolita’s. “I’m okay. They tell me I’ll have a full recovery, and I intend to be part of the final assault on the Dark Lord. So you can stop worrying about me.”

Lolita smiled. With the adrenaline of battle now faded, she looked softer and more petite than ever. She was tired and worn out. “I keep thinking…about Belisarius…I…” she couldn’t find the words.

“I wish I could tell you otherwise,” replied Zhiya, “but what you’re feeling will never truly leave you. But you’re strong, Lolita. You will handle this. And you will move on.”

Lolita shook her head slightly but did not reply. I wish I believed you, she thought. “I’ll let you get some rest,” she said at last.

Lolita walked off into the streets, taking a very long route back to where the LMB had made a makeshift headquarters. Weber’s World was a flurry of activity and emotions. There were those celebrating the victory—toasting their fallen comrades, drinking enormous amounts of alcohol, kissing one another and just feeling thankful to be alive. There were also those who had either lost too much too bare or simply could not handle the experience of war; they had cracked up and were weeping openly, unsure of how to deal with the trauma. Lolita knew, logically, that either euphoria would pass for these people. But here, in the moment, it was a terrible to witness.

While wrapped up in these thoughts, she did not see the regal presence of Princess Crujectra approaching her, and was startled by her sudden appearance. “Lolita,” said the Princess formally at first, and then when seeing the dazed look on her face, added “Lolita, are you alright dear?” The tone was much softer. The two women had never been close or even friendly because of their shared history. But Crujectra was a good person, who showed compassion and empathy. She extended her hand and put it on Lolita’s shoulder.

Lolita looked at it, and what was happening registered for her. “Hello, Princess,” she said at last. “I’m on my way back to the others. Do you know if Shark Lad is there?”

Crujectra did not need to be a telepath to see the younger LMBer was dealing with her own trauma. “Yes, dear. Yes, he is. It’s just another two blocks.”

Lolita nodded. She tried to think of something to say, but could not find the words. She suddenly recalled the evil Crujectra of Earth-4, who almost killed her and actually did kill her friend Polka Dot Kid. She pushed those thoughts away. Finally she prepared to keep walking when Crujectra spoke again.

“Have you had any update? On him, I mean. Do we know where he is?”

Cobie. It had been so long since either had seen him. What Crujectra did not say, even though she clearly meant it, was do we know if he’s still alive?.

“No,” said Lolita, and a tear ran down her cheeks, opening up a slow, steady floodgate of tears. “No word from Cobie since Power Boy left him almost two weeks ago.”

Crujectra expected this reply, but the words hit her hard nonetheless. “Oh. Okay,” she said. “My last words to him…were not kind…” she added, really to herself.

“Nor were mine,” said Lolita, remembering how she slapped him across the face. He was the closest person she had in the whole world, and the possible last time she ever saw him would be one of the worst moments they ever had together.

Crujectra leaned forward and gave Lolita a tight hug. She wanted to tell her it would be alright, that Cobie was safe, that they were all safe. That they would all get over this trauma and live happily ever after. But she couldn’t bring herself to make that promise so she simply hugged Lolita.

And Lolita hugged her back.

“Go find Shark Lad, dear,” said Crujectra. “I’ll see you soon.”

And the Princess walked off into the streets, helping the sick, inspiring the down-trodden and doing whatever she could. Lolita watched for a moment, and turned back to where the Legionnaires were headquartered, feeling at long last like it was time to get some sleep.

Weber's World

Kalla looked across the room at Lon. He had been unusually quiet which was really saying something. She knew his brothers’ death had hit him hard, but he seemed to be showing no emotion one way or the other.

Lon was sitting at the window watching people below walk to and fro, some helping remove rubble. Some of them were carrying supplies to various shelters that had been set up.

He saw Lolita walking towards a building that he knew Sharklad was in. He needed to talk to her. He had fed Sharklad a line about not realizing that she had never been involved in any Black Ops before, he knew she hadn't been. The thing was, she was going down that road with or without his help, she was a bit stubborn that way, but there was no way he was going to let her go into this blind. Better to have his "cousin" mad at him than socusing on the fact that his gorlfriend was heading into a new world whether he approved or not. Now, Fin head was upset at him enough for what he had done, what he didn’t know about would push him into a situation that neither needed at that time. He would find put everything sooner or later and probably want Lons’ head on a platter, but Lon knew he would be long gone by then. Lolita for her part, was now one of the most well informed agents of the United Planets. She already had the brains to do it, he had just jump started her career on a huge curve.

He spotted Princess Crujectra walking amongst the crowds. She was holding up just like he knew she would/could. He knew he needed to see her, talk to her, and make sure she didn’t hate him. He knew deep down that she didn’t, couldn’t hate him…but he knew that there were wedges being driven between him and those he had allowed himself to care about. Most were his fault. Hiding who he was and what he did for so long was finally coming home to roost, and things were not going to get any better. He knew there was going to be questions that the leadership had about his activities. He also knew that they would not like the answers.

He stood and turned to face Kalla. She cocked her head a little and smiled. "You're cute when you're brooding, or at least as close as you get to brooding."

A small grin formed on his face. “Kalla, there is something I need to do. Someone I need to see.”

She nodded, figuring it was any number of people she knew he needed to talk to. “No problem Fuzzy, how long are you going to be gone?”

“Not sure, but it really shouldn’t take that long,” he thought for a second and said, “maybe an hour or so.”

“I could use a nap anyway,” she said with a grin. “Join me when you get back…”

“No place else I’d rather be,” he said and flashed a little grin that melted her just a little more. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Lon grabbed something from his bag and headed out the door.

The Realm of the Dark Lord

Ever so carefully, Lard Lad and Cobalt Kid made their way down the thin, rocky walkway that lead to the edge of the Moat of Doom. All around them red-hot cinders floated up from the river of lava, some finding and singing the two. Their blistered and bloodied fingers attempted to gain them handholds on the side, lest they fall down straight into fiery death.

Once, Cobalt lost his balance and began to teeter over, but his best friend caught his arm just in time. Somehow, Lardy was able to both maintain his shaky position and pull Cobie back up with barely any footing for leverage.

Finally, the two made it to the bottom where a small flat shore area separated them from the edge of Doom. They panted and caught their breaths as best they could so close to the blazing river of lava. Their lungs were parched by the sheer heat it let off.

His head spinning from the impure oxygen he was receiving, Lardy clumsily removed the locket from around his neck and placed it on the ground. Apparently sensing the proximity to its fate, the locket opened, revealing the red Eye of XXXauron within.

Gasping for air, Cobie said, "k-kinda small, isn't it? I mean, considering the size of XXXauron's carcass the Hive used."

As if communing with the Eye, Lardy answered, "he lost his Eye in battle with Pornis long before his death. When XXXauron died, he had grown to that size in a last-ditch desperate attempt to fight the inevitable. The Eye is the last part of him that's alive. Pornis kept it and had it enchanted to preserve his own immortality by spreading the influence of the so-called 'Lard Force' that only could be shared thru XXXauron. But Eryk and Lucy got a hold of it and made all this possible."

"So...XXXauron's still alive, Lardy?"

"Only in the most basic sense. I...can feel his suffering. He wants it to end." Lardy unsheathed his sword and looked toward the lava.

"Wait...Lardy! Won't that sword be consumed by the lava?"

Lardy smiled and held the sword so that Cobie could see it. "Do you recognize it, Des?"

Cobie looked at it carefully until recognition dawned. "It's....Sir Roy's!"

Lardy grinned as he shed a single tear. "Exactly! Roy bequeathed it to me in his will. The last thing he ever did with it was stab the Red Bee so that those kids in the orphanage could get away. I...have faith in it, as I had faith in Roy."

Cobie nodded as his heart warmed with Roy's memory. "I do too, Lardy."

Lardy nodded back, and his face steeled with resolve as he turned back toward the river of molten death. He held out his right, robotic hand for Cobie to grasp and keep him steady as he stretched his left, flesh and blood hand and used it to plunge the sword into the lava.

A moment later, he shouted for Cobie to pull him back. As they fell to the ground, Lardy raised the sword's hilt to show the both of them that the sword was indeed intact and glowing a radiant blue color.

Both of them rose to their feet and Lardy stepped toward where the Eye still lay on the ground. He raised his sword high above his head, grasping it with both hands.

Lardy whispered, "rest in peace, grandfather...and the gods help the souls of all my brothers and sisters of the Lard Knights..."

Then, he brought down the sword directly on the Eye.

And reality itself seemed to collapse in on itself for one long moment.

********

The Hive,
fomerly in Dark Oval Space

The Insect Queen felt a terrible buzzing of panic in her head.

"NO!" she screamed. She flew out of their home as quickly as possible and telepathically commanded her brothers, sisters and children to follow suit.

But as soon as she turned around to look at their home, the giant body of XXXauron....

<span style="font-size: 36px;">BOOOOOM!!!</span>

"NOOOOO!" she shrieked. "Our home, almost all of my family--GONE! You will PAY for betraying me, Legionnaires!!! Oh, how you will PAY!!!!"

********

Weber's World

Serj Ontronik, Guru of Lard Dom Deluise XXVII and the other survivors of the Lard Knight Council were in their meeting room discussing the implications of the ineffectiveness of their powers against the forces of Pornis, when suddenly they were all hit with a wave of nausea and then passed out.

Moments later, they all awoke with some of them moaning and crying with despair.

"Our power is gone!" one cried.

"Why has the Lard Force abandoned us?" another moaned.

But one awoke with utter clarity. It was Guru of Lard Dom Deluise XXVII. "It was never supposed to be ours in the first place, brothers! I know this now. We have inadvertantly been soldiers for the ultimate Evil all this time! We must rejoice, for our brother Anthony has released us from our vile conscription! Now, we must join him and help him finish this fight as men--for all that is good in the universe!"

One by one, they felt the wisdom of his words, even as they mourned their loss.

********

Naltor

In the temple where they awaited destiny, Nura Nal and Tempest whispered as one, "it begins."

********

The Realm of Pornis,
Somewhere deep within the Fortress

A Voice, as big as the universe, screams.

********

The Moat of Doom

Lardy and Cobie were momentarily stunned by the power of the blow that Lardy had just delivered. As they recovered their senses, they were then subsequently stunned again by Pornis's scream.

The two gasped and saw that the lava from the Moat inched towards them, overflowing its banks.

"Crap! There's no way we can climb back up fast enough to escape that lava!" Cobalt yelled. "We've got to--"

"It's okay, Des," Lardy said with bemusement, "I'm pretty sure Pornis knows we're here, now."

Then, Lardy grasped Cobie's hand and 'ported them up to relative safety in front of the giant Fortress door at the end of the bridge.

Cobie grinned. "Shit's really about to hit the fan, ain't it?"

"Sure is--just the way we like it!" Lardy replied.

Then, Lardy looked at the door, concentrated and the two disappeared again.

Weber's World

Angdar and Zoe walked through the streets. They had been helping with the various efforts all day long and were exhausted. Neither of them though could quite bring themselves to say goodnight.

He suddenly grabbed her around the waist and took off.

“I can fly on my own you know…” she said softly just centimeters from his ear. She could feel his breath hitting her neck as she nuzzled his shoulder.

“I know, but I wanted to…”

She put her index finger to his lips. “Shhhh…don’t try and explain it. Don’t think. Don’t worry about it,” she said and kissed him.

He banked towards the towers that they all were staying at.

“Good choice…:” she whispered.

Weber's World

Timberwolf say in the nicest chair he had ever sat upon in his life. He was waiting.

The door opened and a woman’s voice thanked her escort and assured them she would be fine. The door shut and the lights came on at her command.

“Good evening Agent Timberwolf,” she said without changing the tone in her voice at all.

Lon turned, and if he had been forced to say so, she impressed him by not just knowing he was there, but not reacting in any significant way.

“You knew I would come by for a chat.”

“I expected it…yes.” She set her folders down and sat in the chair across the desk from him. “Truth be told, I was disappointed that you did not accept the mission…” and more than a bit disturbed that you are in my office with my guards posted everywhere and cameras on every pasart of this building except this room.

“I’m sure you were,” he said calmly. Aside from truly wanting out, he had received scattered info that there was going to be an attempt on his life. The info was sketchy, but it came from very reliable sources. “I had my reasons.”

“More than one,” she said raising an eyebrow playfully. “The new gem of our allies is most assuredly among them, but what might the other…or others be?” He’s too dangerous to be an enemy.

“Personal,” he said and shifted forward in the chair.

The two traded comments and veiled questions for the better part of an hour.

This was a game, and she was damned good at it to. he thought. Better than I honestly thought…better than even Ambassador Mirenna Helene.[/I[

They finally sat in silence. To anyone that would have heard their conversation, it was a jumbled mess of sentence fragments and half thought out quips. But both had relayed a lot of information and gotten a better feel for the other.

“Prime Minister…” Lon said as he stood, “I believe I have taken enough of your time, so I must be leaving now.”

“Can you answer me one question before you leave?”

Lon looked at her and smiled. “I’m afraid not. If you can figure out how I did it though, it will make your day.” He walked over to the window and popped it off its frame. Alarms went off and he smiled as he jumped out the window.

The Prime Minister guards burst into the room and ran to the window. “What happened Ma’am?”
One of the guards asked.

“Oh, it must have been damaged during all the fighting. I’ll use my secondary office,” she said as she gathered up her things.

“Nothing to see out there. Must have been a wind gust that hit it just right, that and it must have been weakened as you say.”

She nodded as she walked out the door. “Please alert me when it is repaired.” [I]Grife, that man is infuriating. How does he disappear into thin air?

- - - - - - -

A short while later, Lon re-entered the room he shared with Kalla. She was lying in bed with the sheet over her.

He grinned and then went to the shower. He doubted he would get much sleep as the lights were turned off and he heard her open the shower door.

“We can talk about your discussion later…”

Weber's World

Gear was waiting for Officer Cusimano to get off duty. He had been allowed to finally see his father. He had also provided a collar that would render him able to be restrained like any normal prisoner, whether he was brain dead or not.

He stood outside the cell that the other Universe Dev Em was in. It was still a cell designed to hold Daxamites, and Gear could feel a little effect from it as well. He had never reached Dexamite level anything…but he was still tougher than pretty much any standard sentient. He scanned his father one more time and mentally retracted his facial and head gear. This left him with a metallic left eye and a strip going around his head and finishing in what looked like a standard pair of glasses on the right side. His hair fell over most of the band that went around his head, and hid some of the more pronounced scars he still carried from when he was attacked as a child.

Other than that, one could barely tell he was about one third robotic. As long as he was wearing standard clothing, like he was now.

Gigi came into the holding area and coughed a little under her breath. “Hope you weren’t waiting too long.”

He glanced over at her, “not at all. Just thinking about missed opportunities. The waste that he allowed his life to become. Wondering if I could have helped if I had came back earlier…but the process we developed to send me back was too unstable to make an accurate jump.”

She walked up next to him. “He looks so similar, yet so different.”

Gear sighed. “So I have heard.”

Her eyes darted all over. STUPID!!!

“I am sooooo sorry. I didn’t mean…”

He laughed as he looked at her, “No, it’s okay…really. I want to hear what you know about him Gigi. I really appreciate you taking the time to do this. I’m sure you have much better things to be doing.”

The right upper part of her lip went up involuntarily. “Actually, not really.”

Gear raised his one good eyebrow.

“Long story. It’s gonna cost you dinner and desert if you want to hear that one.”

“Deal.”

They turned to leave when what happened stopped both of them in their tracks.

Gear gently took her arm to walk her out when a loud noise came from the cell wehre his father was.

He instinctively got her behind him and a gun appeared out of seemingly nowhere.

In the cell, The Emissary, Dev Em, gasped. His eyes popped open and he stood up.

Gear leveled the blaster at him, knowing that firing it would destroy the cell wall and give his father a chance to escape. He looked on in pure fascination as the man he had disowned years ago tried to take a step forward and fell over.

Several Officers ran into the holding area, and went wide eyed at the sight in the cell.

“What happened?!?!” One of the asked.

Gears scanned the monitors on the outside of the cell.

“It would appear he had a mental surge of some kind and it passed. Although, I am picking up very faint activity deep within his brain…it’s almost like it’s trying to ‘reboot’ itself.”

“He’s still powerless in there, right?”

“Oh, most definitely. You have nothing to worry about from him. Even if he does somehow regain his mind, he’s powerless to do anything.”

The Officers opened the cell and placed him back in the bed. Then quickly got out and resealed the cell.

“Anything else you need from us Officers?” Gear asked.

The Captain looked from Gear to Gig and let a little huff from under his breath. “No, you two are free to go.”

Gear and Gig looked at each other and shrugged. “Thanks then,” he said and they left and headed for the nearest open restaurant.

Weber’s World, Secret Meeting Room
The United Planets

As Lolita approached the door, it dawned on her that they room they were meeting in was very familiar. It was the exact same room as where the Fellowship met on Weber’s World prior to the quest. This knowledge caused her to smile, suddenly. Probably IB… she thought, he would appreciate the irony.

Shark Lad noticed her smiling. For the last several hours, he had been nothing but worried about her and the obvious trauma she was going through. She refused to speak about it, but instead held Shark Lad tight. At times, he was expecting her to break down into tears—sobbing even. But she never did so; it was as if she was holding back and fighting the release weeping would give. So he gave her the steady, strong support she needed, and hoped it was enough. “Something else else funny?” he said.

“No, not really,” she replied quietly. The two entered and Lolita was surprised to see they were the last to arrive. The normal pomp and circumstance such a meeting brings—with various individuals arriving late or early to prove a point—was missing here. Instead, everyone was getting down to business.

“Lolita, Sharky, welcome,” said Rockhopper Lad. As LMB Leader, he was running his meeting, and his nod towards two empty chairs highlighted that fact. He looked entirely comfortable in the leadership position even after the game-changing battle of Weber’s World shook the very foundations of the universe. Yet, Lolita could see hints of anxiety in his posture. So much to discuss and get done, and never enough time.

Lolita looked around the room. Like before, so many familiar faces…except this time two were missing. Time Teller Lad, injured to the point where he could not stand on his own, had insisted he be present to take the minutes. Hywvie, the Wonder Beagle stayed by his side, as if to lend him any support he might need. Cleome was also present, like Invisible Brainiac no longer a ‘secret member’ of the Fellowship. Helena Handbasket was next, and she looked more noble than ever—as if the events of the last weeks (months?) had changed her for the better; as if she’d evolved into something stronger. Timberwolf and Kalla Hykros were next, and they exchanged quiet looks with Lolita that surprisingly felt warm. Could it be that when I look at Kalla, I see…a kindred spirit? Is that what the fire of battle forges?

As for Lon, she felt something in that glance they shared. As if he was an older brother, who was clearly looking out for her, and was proud of her. She felt a similar attachment—as if it was her duty to keep an eye out for him and his happiness. While others saw a killing machine, she simply saw a brave man with a depth of humanity that could surprise even himself.

Juj, the Durlan was also present, which made her curious. She had yet to actually meet him though he had played a critical role in the story thus far.

Hrun the Barbarian, worse for wear, was present. It was in moments like these, where chaos and carnage ruled the day and you didn’t know if you were going up or down, that one such as run could be your anchor. Men like Hrun were not born but forged, and while such creations were terrible truths of the world, they were also things to be thankful for in times like these.

Spellbinder and Kent Shakespeare were next; the two Legionnaires who did not go on the quest but were party to it. They looked exhausted. There must be some satisfaction, thought Lolita, that most of the Fellowship still lives. Yet, on the other hand, there must be a deep guilt they feel over the three who have not yet come back, two of which might never.

Last, near Rockhopper Lad, were Power Boy and Invisible Brainiac. Two LMBers who had risen above themselves to prove to their colleagues there were leaders of the LMB. Power Boy looked regal and fierce, and the great feeling Lolita felt as his appearance in the Dark Oval still lingered. Invisible Brainiac looked warm and friendly, a smile on his face that brought comfort and confidence. Being in the mix—the hustle and bustle of leadership—looked good on him.

Rockhopper Lad spoke at once. “Legionnaires, we called you here, and only you, because we have to decide on some things. Quickly. Even now, the United Planets political machine is moving at full speed to determine the next moves. Next moves which will impact the entirety of the multiverse as we know it. Because of the sequence of events, with all of us finding our way here once again, we have an opportunity to step in now and direct that machine.”

Kent Shakespeare nodded and spoke up as if on cue. “The Prime Minister is on her way now,” he said. “Her spies on Weber’s World are everywhere and somehow they know of this meeting. Ambassador Mirenna Helene is accompanying her. Her intentions have been kept close to the vest. Thus far she has been an incredible ally to the Legion of Message Board Posters. Because thus far, we have done wonders for her political career. Please keep that in mind.”

“Why the secrecy?” said Power Boy, stating what many felt. “The path is obvious. We have the Dark Lord reeling from that loss. There is no doubt he’s organizing another assault. We have to go into the Dark Oval—NOW—and destroy him.”

“HEAR HEAR!!!” screamed Hrun at the top of his lungs, causing many to jump. “The war isn’t over until the Dark Lord rots!” he added. “For Dev Em and all the rest!”

The words caused a flame of anger in Timberwolf at that moment, as he felt himself agreeing but he said nothing. He knew there were still a few things to play out.

Cleome spoke next: “If there were a way for peace, trust me, I would suggest it. But what we fight now are not mislead sentients with opposing political views. Most of those enemies have surrendered or even joined us. All that is left are monsters. Undead, demons and other vile things.”

There were nods of agreement and even cheers.

“All of you,” said Juj the Durlan quietly, though his speaking up caught them by surprise. “You need to hear more information.” With that, he turned towards Ameratsu, the robot.

Lolita had not seen Ameratsu in the room, and indeed, nor did most of them. But the robot was there, and he spoke with the cold logic only knowledge provides. “What you suggest makes sense given the sequence of events,” he said. “But you must first be aware of what you are suggesting. The army that marched on Weber’s World is but a fraction of the Dark Lord’s minions. Consider that one eighth of the total enemy you would now face should you march on the Dark Lord. In his embrace, he controls demons, dragons, goblins and other creature so terrible that they can be found in the legends and myths on every planet everywhere. Even further,” he added, as Hrun made a motion to interject, “the billions of slaves the Dark Lord has sent to their deaths over the many millennia never fully escape his employ—instead, they linger on in the form of the Undead, and continue to serve him. These never-ending reserves stand ready in wait, to be inflicted upon the universe if ever the Dark Lord felt so threatened that he would rather destroy the entirety of all that is, instead of rule it. Know that this is what you are facing. And then, that does not consider the Dark Lord himself. So powerful, that even the combined powers of your Legion of Super-Heroes would not equal his might. So powerful…”

“He is powerful, yes,” said Lolita, suddenly rising to her feet. She cut off the robot, seeing he was winding down his warning, but deciding she could hold her tongue any longer. “This we know already,” she said. “But my counter argument is simple.” She turned at looked at Timberwolf, and a small smile came across her lips. “So what?”

Confused faces stared back at her, but Timberwolf smiled back. “If we march on the Dark Lord, we may die. We very probably will. Surviving this far has been a miracle. But right now, he has two of our own. And I want them back.” Her last words were final, as a small tear ran down her cheek.

Before any one else could speak, the door to the meeting chamber suddenly entered. The Legionnaires stood, and greeted the honored guests as they entered: the Prime Minister, Maya adi Lva, and Ambassador Mirenna Helene. With them was an escort of no less than twenty guards and politicians. This included numerous Ambassadors and Senators. “Legionnaires, you will forgive the intrusion,” she said. “But I felt while we had our own meeting, very similar to yours, that we might combine our efforts and come up with a more agreeable conclusion.”

Ambassador Mirenna Helene looked briefly at Lolita, and then Timberwolf but said nothing.

In the back of the group was another LMBer: Crusader, also an Ambassador. He and his sister locked eyes, and many LMBers knew they spoke to one another telepathically.

“We welcome you and your entourage, Madame Prime Minister,” said Rockhopper Lad diplomatically. “Like you, we discuss the next steps in this war.”

“I thought as much,” she replied. “Let me begin by saying your service thus far—all of you—has been invaluable. You have once again proven why the Legion is worthy of all the accolades it receives. The United Planets can never fully repay the debt it owes to your stalwart organization, and we only can express our gratitude to you by proclaiming you to be beloved sons and daughters of the civilized universe.”

Kalla Hyrkos smiled at this statement. She could smell a backhanded slap coming a mile away.

“But I wanted to intrude upon your meeting to let you know we are considering an alternate course that perhaps you have not quite considered.”

Rockhopper Lad’s smile remained, though it became increasingly smaller. “Go on,” he replied.

“The Dark Oval is effectively neutralized. The Dominators have been sent back to the stone age; Epsilon Sector is almost empty; Hykros is our alley, and the Hive is too far away to be of an immediate threat. And the Dark Army has been defeated. Our current position is…we have won.”

“Indeed?” said Invisible Brainiac. He attempted to restrain his sarcasm but to little avail.

“It seems to me,” said the Prime Minister, “that at this stage, rather than risking more total and universal war, we should be extending our hands in peace. Have not the battles of the last several months taught us anything? If we have learned our lessons, can’t we surmise the enemy has as well? Now would be the time for peace.”

“Madame Prime Minister,” said Invisible Brainiac, “three of our own remain behind enemy lines. We wish to retrieve them.”

The Prime Minister offered a look of deep sorrow; it was effective under normal circumstances, but the battle weary LMBers could tell it was as fake as they came. “As I understand, Tempesf can get home just fine. And while the loss of Cobalt Kid and Lard Lad, great heroes both, is deeply felt, I would say risking universal peace is far too great, wouldn’t you agree? Besides, while it must pain you all to admit this, surely both of these great heroes are already dead?”

As she spoke the words, Lolita looked away in disgust. Both at the Prime Minister, and at herself for believing her.

“You have had no contact with them in weeks. They have been behind enemy lines in the most hostile of territories. They would have sent you a signal if they could have, I’m sure of it. It is difficult to push aside emotion and look at logic. But you must here.”

The words stung, and hung over them for a moment.

“They live,” said Power Boy, finally. He spoke with an authority.

Invisible Brainiac turned to him, and spoke quietly. A smile crept across his face as a tear ran down his cheek. “How can you know though, Peebs?” he said. The rest of the room looked on.

“What does your heart tell you?” he replied, holding up his hand to grasp Invisible Brainiac by the arm.

IB nodded, and turned towards Rockhopper Lad. Rockhopper Lad nodded as well. “We know they live,” he said at last. “And what they’re doing…could destroy the Dark Lord once and for all.”

And suddenly, the Prime Minister revealed something about herself that no LMBer had ever seen: “Whether they live or not means nothing,” she said coldly. “They played their part and played it well but the rules have changed. They’ll be remembered as great heroes but they serve no further purpose while being stuck in hell.”

The turn was vicious yet quick, and suddenly she was herself again. But the Legionnaires took a step back and understood Kent Shakespeare’s earlier words.

Spellbinder spoke next. “You, yourself, Madame Prime Minister, have emerged from this war as a great hero. The savior of the United Planets. And allow me to be the first to congratulate you…on a job well done,” he words oozed venom as she spoke. “Of course, at this stage in the game,” she added, “the job is only half done.” As she spoke, she walked across the room to the door and all eyes followed her. Lolita, nearest to the door, stood up as the Princess approached and looked at her inquisitively. Crujectra only smiled. “When all is said and done, and history records these events, you will be a conquering champion. That is, if you have enough people telling that story.” With those words, she opened the door and a tremendous noise came flooding through from the hallway.

Outside stood hundreds of heroes, summoned telepathically by Crusader and Crujectra; the moment he had joined the meeting, Crusader began working with Crujectra to summon their friends. The entirety of the LMB roster was there. All of their allies as well: Losers, SMBers, Knights, Lard Knights, soldiers, medical staff, friends. All of those who fought for the United Planets.

Crujectra continued, now speaking from the hallway, and this caused those still inside the meeting to have to stand up, and exit the meeting room to hear her continue. “We will be telling the story, Madame Prime Minister. Those of us who fought for freedom. And the story we want to tell is victory. Where we finished the job we had to do and rescued our friends.” At those words, the assembled heroes cheered so loudly, it almost shattered the walls.

The Prime Minister grew increasingly red in the face. Ambassador Mirenna Helena smiled at the Princess and nodded at her.

Rockhopper Lad now approached the center of those assembled. “We may not have a chance on the Dark Lord but what we can do is give Lardy and Cobie a chance! If we can distract him—pull his attention away towards us—they can land the final, killing blow. To do this we need to be loud. We need to be brave. We need to be FEARLESS. We will MARCH on the Dark Lord and deliver him the justice he so richly deserves.”

And the cheers that followed echoed through the hallways.

Mirenna leaned in towards the Prime Minister in her calm, polite manner. “War it is, then,” she said with a smile.

The Realm of the Dark Lord

Lard Lad and Cobalt Kid appeared instantly on the other side of the giant doorway to the Fortress of Pornis. At long last, they were inside.

They looked around and saw only a dark hallway apparently carved from black molten rock. All along the sides placed intermittently were flaming torches that barely provided any light at all, the darkness was so palpable. In the far distance they glimpsed a soft white glow.

Lardy had his sword out, and Cobie's hands were raised, his magnetism at the ready. For seconds that seemed like hours, they awaited the hoardes of guards, or perhaps Pornis himself, that were sure to pile in on them. However, no such onslaught came.

"What the hell's going on here, Lardy?" Cobalt said nervously. "Pornis is bound to know we're here!"

"Yeah, he has to," Lardy nodded, his eyes darting back and forth. "We heard--and felt--his scream! Do you think everyone was wrong? That destroying the Eye may have been all it took to do away with him?"

"No, Lardy, I don't. I've heard screams of pain, and I've heard death screams. As vicious and horrifying as that scream was...it was no death scream."

"So what do you make of this, then, Des?"

"It's a trap, Lardy. Gotta be."

"So...what do we do?"

Before Cobie could reply, the ghostly apparition of Mordra suddenly appeared before them. She pointed to the soft glow far down the end of the dark hallway. "Your grandmother Chione is there, Lard Lad. She lies in stasis, a prisoner of Priapus. You must free her."

Lardy gave Cobie a look that reaffirmed how little he trusted Morda. Cobie answered with a shrug that clearly showed him that they didn't have many options and may as well take a look.

So the two walked very slowly toward the glow, weapons and powers at the ready, as Mordra floated silently before them. It seemed like their destination was miles away as sweat poured from their bodies and their synapses fired, expecting a sneak attack all the while.

But, again, an attack never came, and they finally reached an alcove where a woman's body floated in stasis encircled by white, eldritch energies that flowed around her like water.

The two men looked up at her. She was a beautiful caucasian woman who looked to be no more than 30 years old. Her generously flowing long hair was the same shade of brown as Lardy's own hair. She was dressed in an opulent white gown accentuated with sapphires. She wore a golden tiara with a sapphire in the middle and matching bracelets and necklace. Her feet were bare. Her eyes were closed. She looked as if she were asleep or recovering in a nutrient bath.

Both men stood in awe for a moment, until Cobalt turned around to Mordra and spoke. "Nice try, harlot. She's younger than Lardy...no way she's his granny! What is she...some kind of succubus you want us to free and then let her tear us apart? Not falling for it!"

Mordra looked indignant. "Fool! Chione is a god--an immortal! You expected her to be, what, some aged crone who will wake up and bake you cookies?!? You can NOT defeat Pornis without her, you--!"

Lardy interrupted them, his eyes never moving from the vision of beauty floating unaware above them. "It's her, Des. I've seen her in my dreams as long as I can remember. She's my grandmother."

"Oh-kay," Cobie exclaimed, trying to back off the defensive mode he'd been in, "but how do we know that she's, you know...good?"

"You trust me, don't you?"

"I do," Cobie admitted.

"Even so...remember the oasis? That came from her! Nothing evil could have made that. I'm freeing her, Des."

"Then go ahead." Cobie's hands glowed, though, as he prepared for the worst. He looked back where Mordra was and was surprised to see she'd disappeared again. This alarmed him, but when he turned back, he saw Lardy was already mixing his energies with the white waves imprisoning his grandmother. A moment later, the energies were disippated, and Lardy gently caught Chione as she floated downward, apparently still unconscious.

"Grandmother," Lardy said softly as he rubbed her face, "please wake up."

Slowly, Chione's eyes fluttered, and they opened to display two almost perfect brown replicas of Lardy's own eyes.

"Anotaylus?" she said softly as she put her feet on the ground. "Oh, my sweet, sweet, grandson! How I've watched you and your brother as I've slept all of these years--such beautiful men you've grown to be!"

Tears welled in Lardy's eyes as he embraced her tightly. He'd never had anything resembling a mother figure in his life, and the joy of finally having one at long last was almost too much for his heart to handle.

She broke the embrace and stepped an arm's length back to take in the sight of him. She stroked his beard and attempted to straighten his unruly head of hair. "You look so much like my father," she said, beaming.

Then, she turned to Cobalt. "And you...his other brother in every way except genetics." She stroked Cobalt's beard and face as well. Cobalt let his guard drop and felt his own familiar pangs for the mother who onced loved him well up inside him. "He has been so lucky to have you."

Cobalt said, "I feel I'm the lucky one to have had him as my friend."

She smiled, "and that's how it should be."

Then, Chione looked around, as if suddenly remembering where she was for the first time, and her face darkened.

"Would that this reunion were under better circumstances," she said grimly. "I'm afraid you've made a most grievous mistake coming here, boys."

Lardy said softly, "it was my destiny, grandmother. I had to come to this Fortress to confront my father. His evil must be stopped once and for all."

Chione shook her head. "My son Priapus was defeated long, long ago, grandson. You see, this isn't his 'Fortress' at all...." She motioned around at the walls. "...this is his prison!"

Cobie and Lardy's jaws dropped as they stared at each other.

"And I was his warden," she continued. "It was his intent to lure you here all along. For you, grandson, are his ticket out of here!"

<span style="font-size: 28px;">The Allies Assemble…</span>
 
It was a pair of magical winged horses that caused Lolita to begin comprehending the scope of the assemblage before her. Two majestic creatures, either magical in nature or born on a planet that caused its sentients to evolve until they could breath in space, that caused everything to click into place. They had been a special gift to Rockhopper Lad and Rockhopper Lass from one of the numerous Weber’s World Senators, so that the LMB Leader and his ‘sister’ could ride into battle at the head of the massive Army in the most grandiose way. And that symbol, though it seemed small at first, worked.
 
Lolita saw the horses being led through and it caused her to take a step back and truly view the assembled heroes before them. Here on Weber’s World, in a mechanical landing field that stretched out flatly in all direction as far as the eye could see, the assembled heroes of the United Planets gathered to begin the march on the Dark Lord.  For most sentients, it was too much to take in all at once; too much detail to process. But for one such as Lolita, with her computer brain and aptitude for analysis, she had immediate insight into the roster of the Allies.
 
As she stared below her, a friendly figure approached. She smiled at Invisible Brainiac, a longtime friend and ally and a welcome sight. “Taking it all in?” he said, at once understanding the grandeur of it all from up high.
 
“Yes,” she said, “so many things happened to get us all here…yet here we all are. Quite a gathering. We very likely will never see another like it.”
 
“No, I suspect not,” he said. “And I never hope we have a reason for one,” he added, a little grimly. Then, as if he realized his change of tone, added, “though seeing everyone down there like that…it can’t help but raise my spirits. Right?” he added with a smile.
 
His smile was infectious. “Right,” she replied. She turned to him, and suddenly gave him a big tight hug. They had not seen much of each other in quite awhile, but Lolita always considered Invisible Brainiac a close friend. One might say they were part of the same “class of LMBers”, the same group of “newbies” who came up through the ranks together. The two had been friends for a long time. At one time, both had crushes on one another though neither ever told. “You’ve changed, IB,” she said, letting go of the hug. “I like it.”
 
He smiled. “You have too. We’ve been through quite a lot. You’ve really come into your own, ‘Lita,” he added, “you’ve proven yourself to be a stalwart Legionnaire.”
 
“And you,” she replied matter-of-factly, “one of our best leaders.” They both turned and looked back at the gathering. “I’m happy for you too. Blaze seems like a fantastic person. I’m looking forward to getting to know him better.”
 
“I’d like that,” replied Invisible Brainiac. Her endorsement of Blaze, especially since he wasn’t looking for it or expecting it, thrilled him. “And Shark Lad seems a good match for you.”
 
“He’s wonderful,” she said, genuinely. Sharky was her rock. More than ever.
 
“You know,” said Invisible Brainaic, “intense situations—some too crazy to even put into words—have presented themselves and we’ve stepped up. Not just us but so many others. Down below in that gathering, there are so many heroes who have done that before…and so many new ones that will do it again. Either on this march or some other day. When the chips are down, an LMBer steps up and proves themselves. That what makes this team…this way of life work.”
 
She smiled, and couldn’t help but feel inspired by the words. She hugged him again and kissed his cheek. “Sweet ass sweet,” she said happily. “See you out there,” she added.
 
The two walked away, going in opposite directions to wrap up the various chores they had to complete before the march began. As they did, both continued to look at the assemblage, taking in the spectacle at the smallest detail to fully grasp what they saw.
 
In the forefront, holding onto the two winged horses were Rockhopper Lad, the LMB Leader, and his sister, Rockhopper Lass. Rocky would lead the Allies into the Dark Oval, and speak on the United Planets behalf. It was an amazing responsibility—almost too epic to comprehend—yet he accepted it as if he’d been born to do so. And in many ways he had been. Rockhopper Lass, perhaps not his “true” sister but a sister in every way that mattered, stayed by his side to lend support. If Time Teller Lad were not injured, he would undoubtedly be by their side as well; Hywvie too, if the Wonder Beagle was not staying behind with Tim.
 
Next to the House of Rockhopper was Power Boy, and even from afar, his magnificence burned like a shining star. The New God had lifted the spirits of the defenders of Weber’s World not long ago and to gaze upon him would replenish that feeling. He was quiet now, contemplating the coming battle in a way only a deity could do. Lolita recalled when Power Boy parted with the New Gods, allowing them to return home. As Power Boy saluted his brethren, down below the entirety of Weber’s World also offered a salute in tribute for their assistance and the New Gods were visibly thankful. That thanks—to be so pure—justified to them they made the right decision.
 
By Power Boy were his two allies from the Fellowship who had traveled far and wide with him: Ameratsu and Juj. Both were mysterious to the rest of them; because of their closeness to Power Boy they had taken on an almost mythical quality among the Allies as well. Ameratsu retained so much knowledge that he was almost terrifying. And Juj, Lolita knew, was a lynchpin for the Allies. He was close to Power Boy, and also Lard Lad and Cobalt Kid, and therefore the Legion. Yet, his lifelong camaraderie with Kalla Hyrkos was critical and added another layer of trust between them.
 
Kalla Hykros was not far off. As always, Timberwolf was by her side. Though the gathered Hykrosian forces would remain in the middle of the trail, Kalla’s place was at the forefront of the effort. Lolita saw Kalla from afar and could see from her posture something she had never truly noticed before: Kalla was a ‘human’ as anyone she’d ever met. She was regal at times, and she was terrifying at times. But her actions, even when they were deceptive, were always based on real, genuine human needs. Lolita again marveled at her empathy towards Kalla Hykros…they had been through so much. There was something beautiful about the one-time enemy.
 
Timberwolf, meanwhile, was purposely off to the shadows. He was non-descript to the common viewer, purposely ensuring that if you saw him, you’d move on without ever realizing he was there. Even in an assemblage such as this, where those around him were clearly the leaders, he could maintain that. Some skills were just natural to some people, and there was no more natural spy than agent Timberwolf. Yet, Lolita felt a kinship with him she could not express. Something else else about his quiet support of the effort reassured her. As if a man who could do terrible things that most consciences could not handle could also act as the voice of reason in the group.
 
Nearby were the “unofficial leaders” of the LMB, the House of Jectra. Neither were an elected leader for many years, and neither were an active leader right now; but the Jectra Twins, Crusader and Spellbinder, as always spoke with the collective voice of the Legion. They were born to lead and had performed this duty perfectly for a long time. By Crusader’s side was Maxx, his husband; while the Jectra twins looked their most regal, Maxx had an easy-going smile that was warm and welcoming. Lolita knew that Crujectra had the same unspoken fears she did over Cobalt Kid and whether he still lived. Yet unless you were a telepath like she was, you would never know it.
 
Another LMBer who had proven himself was at the front of the line, and that was Jerry. Jerry emerged during the defense of Weber’s World as a fantastic ad hoc leader and field commander. It surprised him as much as the others, given his usual friendly and genial demeanor. Like Peebs and IB, Jerry’s “stepping up” would not be forgotten by his comrades.
 
The Legion World Founders also stayed near the front of the army. Nightcrawler, Saturn Girl and Kid Prime, now hovering above them in his full, massive glory, were nearby. It was not often that Nightcrawler was this long away from Legion World and that underlined the seriousness of the situation. But as he’d always proven, when the LMB needed him, he would be there for it. Many of the younger Legionnaires, and all of the citizens of Legion World, revered the founders of the planet. If they could see them now, this feeling would be multiplied one hundred fold.

Nearby the Legion World founders was Kent Shakespeare, issuing last minute orders and thinking of the little things that needs to be done as ever. His role thus far had been subtle yet absolutely critical--as it often was. Yet now he could play another part he also did very well: superhero.

By Kent's side were two brothers whose heroism was renowned throughout the galaxies: the LMBers Abin Quank and Space Ranger. Two powerhouses whose very presence lifted the others spirits, not only because of their power but because of their rye sense of humor; each one different in their own way, yet welcome. 

And then Lolita saw another that lifted her heart so fast that it brought tears to her eyes. The noble Faraway Lad, the LMBer (not SMBer) had made it after all. He looked worse for wear but he wouldn't miss this final battle. She wondered if he heard of all she'd done and if he'd be proud of her? Right now, she only cared he was here. By his side was Gigglebot Girl and she was whispering something in his ear that made him smile. Still far away, Lolita smiled too.

Faraway Lad was positioned nearest the assembled Ambassadors, as one would expect. They would not be joining the Allies on this journey and therefore had gathered to send off the Army as a show of support. At the front was the Prime Minister, Maya adi Lva; she was all smiles yet Lolita knew this was not genuine. The LMB made a powerful enemy with this march. Flanking the Prime Minister was Ambassador Mirenna Helene, who looked as polished and poised as ever; Lolita could swear she saw her smile at Darden. Also with them was Ambassador Hranzer, the Gil'disphan Ambassador who was a long supporter of the Legion, and Cato, the Ambassador of Aldebain III, who was traditional the Legion's biggest detractor but was a good man. This was highlighted by his support of this endeavor. Lolita saw another familiar face,
Ambassador Relnic, who had retuned to Weber's World at last. He looked worn out, likely dealing with the death of his young nephew. Commander Bond was near them all, keeping a watch over the important politicians. Most of the Ambassadors had returned to Weber's World by now as peace once more reigned in the UP. There were some problem sports still--Imsk, being the biggest (ironically), but the battle of Webers World had turned the tide.

Behind the Ambassadors were the assembled Legion of Message Board Posters and their closest allies. Never before had Lolita seen so many in one place--there was something grandiose in this assemblage. It reaffirmed the reason behind the LMB. She smiled to herself and thought of Invisible Brainiac. Knowing him, he'd be taking inventory of the roster, he loved this sort of thing.

Behind the LMB were the assembled Losers and the Society of Message Board Posters. They had paid their debt already and now simply were doing the right thing.  At the forefront were Bat-Fem, who looked deadly serious, and Hugh Taylor, who Lolita guessed was uncomfortable in this obvious leadership position but it did not show. Behind them were Helena Handbasket and Seth Gaterra, as Helena elected to remain with what was left with the Covenant. She looked sure of herself, prepared for the final battle. Seth looked happy--just glad to be reunited with his love. Zhiya was there as well, recovered enough to go on this march and Lolita looked forward to being by her side. The others were all there as well: 

Lightning Lass, Satan Claws Cramer, the Earth-4 Shark Lad, Danny Blaine,  Portfolio Girl, Super Dense Kid, Infra Red Lass, Monkey Eater Lad, Saturn Guy, Outdoor Miner, Atypical Lass, Beagz, Kid Heavyfeathers, Ghost Girl, Cuddly Beaver, Hummingbird, Saffron Kid and last  but not least, Karate Kid. Val Armor had regained a purpose with this quest and he would see it through. Also with them was Gear, who Lolita knew felt out of place most of the time...though she wondered if perhaps that was changing. He was speaking to a science police officer who she recognized named Gigi Cusimano. Lolita picked up on the body language...perhaps he wouldn't feel lonely much longer?

Behind this contingent were the assembled Knights: both the Space Knights Templar and the depowered Lard Knights. The latter would fight as men, and they were prepared to. Lolita could spot those she knew: Knightress, one of the heroes of Weber's World; Sir John the Carggitte, who now only had two selves, red and purple; Serj, one of the heroes of Daroon; and Lolita was surprised to see the former LMBer Lumber Fox...though 'Lumborg Fox' was more apt as he appeared to be more machine than man after his injuries on Daroon. Like so many others, he would not miss this battle. Even the head of the Lard Knights, Dom Delouse XII was among them. 

Behind the Knights were their close allies: the Daroon Contingent. A makeshift alliance of various fighting forces, they were headed by the famous Kar Em, along with other Daxamites. Kar Em had many reasons to fight--first and foremost in the memory of his son, the great hero Dev Em.

And beyond them was the assembled armies made up of professional soldiers who would do the majority of the fighting. This included the United Planets military, made up of brave volunteers from all over civilized space. It included the Hykrosian Army which would be led by Kalla Hykros, and they would be anxious to prove their value to their new allies. And it included the former Dark Oval General Elite Militia who now tasted freedom and having control of their own destiny and would not give it up. They stretched back farther than even Kid Vudoo could see.

Lolita approached the gathering and Shark Lad was waiting. He offered a rough yet warm smile. "Out for a walk?" he joked and she gave a mock angry face. Then she hugged him tight. 

"Someone should say something. Make a speech," she said. 

"Ha," replied Shark Lad. "Good luck with that. No one's voice could reach all these hundreds of thousands. Not even coordinated telepathy."

"I wish something would happen then. Something else else to inspire us before battle."

And then, as if one cue, something did happen. 

A loud explosion erupted in the sky. It was alarming at first but the LMB remained calm and this calmness spread quickly. For they recognized the signs of time travel when they saw it. Traveling from the distant past was Time Boy, the famous writer H.G. Wells, who was an honorary LMBer. With him was Matlock in a way that made Lolita's head hurt, as she knew Matt spent 25 years traveling with Time Boy before rejoining them and therefore was also concurrently on Legion World at this very moment.

But it was the third traveler who caused them to erupt into cheers.

Engine Joe hovered before them in all his magnificence. The inspiration for the Legion--the original hero and Legionnaire. 

Most had never met or seen him; only a handful had before and it has been 12 long years since they'd done so. Yet here he was--rejoining them for their biggest battle. 

He lifted his arm in their air to salute his comrades and suddenly seven hundred thousand cheers filled the air. It was deafening.

And Engine Joe smiled as he flew down to join them.

And Lolita felt tears running down her cheeks and a smile stretching across her face.

The Allies March!

Invisible Brainiac stared in awe as Engine Joe floated down towards Rockhopper Lad. IB turned to Blaze and shook him. "My gosh, Blaze! Do you know who that is?!"

Blaze, who was cheering, stopped and looked. "Actually, no. I was just caught up in the moment."

"That's only THE inspiration for the entire Legion!!!" IB said as he shook Blaze harder. "I can't believe you don't know him!!!!!!"

"Ow ow ow ow okay okay I know him I know him!" Blaze said as he tried to pry IB's fingers from his shoulders.

"Hey doll, I'm all for young love, but don't you think you should have taken care of this before we were about to march into battle?"

IB and Blaze, arms around in other and red spreading on their cheeks, stepped back. "Oh cleome, it's Engine Joe! It's THE Engine Joe! This is just what the team needed. After losing Dev, and Language Arts Lad, and Disaster Boy, and everything that we've seen, this additional hope means a lot!"

Cleome smiled the kind, warm reassuring smile that always made IB feel better. "Yeah, doll. Give me a nice pitcher of Aunt Ida's lemonade and some gingerbread cookies and I could watch this scene for a while. But we have to get ready, okay?"

IB grinned sheepishly as he remembered the dozens of things he still had to do. With a quick hug for cleome and a quick peck on the cheek for Blaze, he dashed off.

*************************************************

Not more than half an hour after Engine Joe appeared, things were ready. The assembled allies worked fast, eager to begin the assault and fight for life and freedom.

IB couldn't stop grinning as Rockhopper Lad gave him the signal. Princess Crujectra nodded at him, and a flare erupted into the sky. It spelled out the words,

"For life and liberty - we march!

The thunderous cheers that followed would have warmed the hearts of anyone watching. And they would indeed, for this momentous occasion was being recorded for posterity, for when the United Planets would find out just how they were saved that day.

As the flare subsided, Rockhopper Lad and Rockhopper Lass took to the skies, their winged steeds carrying them truly. They were followed by several of the assembled allies' leaders.

An honor guard of some of the most powerful LMBers fanned out around them. IB smiled as he saw several former leaders and deputy leaders among them - obviously done as a show of support for Rocky's leadership, not that it was ever in doubt. Poverty Lad, Harbinger, the mysterious He Who Wanders, Kid Marvel, Dedman, Reboot. The towering form of Kid Prime underscored the importance of protecting their leadership.

Then the lead ships began to take off.
IB split into his seven selves and took his positions around the fleet as well. Using his light powers, IB tried to keep track of who was in which. He smiled as he saw the lead ship contained the Legion World Founders, as well as the LMB Founders Mystery Lad and Shadowplay in Candlelight Lass. Though not quite as active in the LMB as they used to, they had returned to the organization they had created. Mogli was also there, keeping Nightcrawler company.

Along with them were some of the first LMBers who had responded to the call to defend Weber's World. IB was pleased to see that Loser Lad, Raging Bull, Beagle Boy, Lance's Realm, Mattropolis, Vee and Sketch Lad and Awkward Pause Boy were all okay. So was CJ Taylor, recovered from his ordeal in space. My Whee Fem was trading jokes with Quislet, Esq. and Rickshaw. Actor Lad and Nurse Tina were assisting to Kid Vudoo, who still had a few bandages but was looking quite healthy. Hrun the Barbarian was there with his hordes, laughing and drinking, though IB knew they could be counted on to be among the fiercest in battle. He stifled a laugh as he saw Anita Cocktail and Calm Yo Tits had joined Hrun's men and were outdrinking them!

Many of IB's closest friends were also there. Kinetix and Angdar Fel, Kairos, Special Officer Ralph, Petty Officer Marvin, Danger Damsel II. Spelling Bee looked to be annoying Petty Officer Bugs, or perhaps it was the other way around. They were with Blaze, the love of IB's life. IB smiled as he thought of the plans he had for a well-earned vacation for both of them, after the war!

The other LMBers were spread out among the other ships, both to provide security and to add a measure of safety in case some ships didn't make it.

IB looked and saw many others he had fought with in the recent battles. All were heroes to the end, and he was proud to be associated with them. Xben, Set, Little Rhino, Exnihil, Future, Portfolio Boy, Floating Foxlike Creature, Krypton Kid, Minesurfer, Ferroboy, Suddenly Seymour, Novel Ty, Karie, Kidflash2fan, Blockade Boy, Kid Crymsun, Legion Reference File Lad, Legion Tracker, Pariscub, Tromium, Healex, Kid Charlemagne, Arm Fall Off Boy, Razsolo, superboyMDDJR, Korbal, Director Lad, Sarcasm Kid, Lad Boy and Myriad. Magnetic Kid and Catalyst King were lovingly holding hands. The SMB's Salad-Tosser Lad looked like he had made a lot of new friends, among them the Gay Green Giant. Some long absent friends had returned, like Monkey Eater Lad, Semi-Transparent Fellow, Igee the Mighty, Sonnie Bloke, Mondo Joe X, 235-Andy S and Bicycle Repair Man. Stoopid Cat and Jinx were curled up and asleep, but IB knew they could be very dangerous. Triads Purple, Orange and Neutral appeared to be having a very animated discussion with a perplexed Kid Gender Stereotype Reversal II. Several newer members were also joining in, already accepted into the larger LMB ranks: Conjure Lass, Leather Wolf, stile86, Blackout Boy, Duck Call Lass, Mind Bender Boy, Georgehaze, Jay Kay, Blind Poet, Desaad, WangLung, and thothkins among others.

There were some others he didn't really know as well, but had heard of their deeds during the battle. Mediocre Boy, the Man from Carggg, Haggard Lad, Malvolio, Omni, The Hermit, Seemingly Impossible, Rokksteady, Polar Boy, Star Boy, numberonelegionfan, Bubble Wrap Boy, Caleb, Omni Craig, JimGallagher, KenAustin, Italian Boy, Kid Chaos, Ricardo, Lone Wolf Legionnaire, White Raven, Freekinos, Blue Battler, googoomuck, doublechinner, Ultrajo, The Labradorian, Owl Lad, Matthew E, Probability Pete and Future King.

Curiously, IB noted that Officer Circe was with a fanged boy in the medibay. He seemed familiar... with a start, IB realized he was one of the officers who had defended Legion World! Making a mental note to check this out later, he moved on.

In the last ship were some old-time LMBers who had returned in this hour of need. Many had retired or chose to be stationed elsewhere, like some who were on Earth as part of the Rebel Message Board Posters - Lost in Lust Lad, Dial H for Homo,JWB Boy, and the Earth-1 Seahorse. Beside them were several old friends of theirs from the early days - Lev Lad, the silent Lurker Lad, Kbern Kid and the former Gonorrhea Gary, Midnight Son, Hardshell the Turtle Boy, Tao Damsel, Cookie Monstress, Chips Ahoy Boy, Ding Lad, Stately Wayne Manor Eater Lad, Flannel Lass, Continuity Cop, Mightyfanboylad, Kid Therod, Kid Psychout, Ample Man, Galahdran, Rune-El, Ger, The Thanagarian, Duplicate Man, Wonder Boy, Shadow Fox, Oraknabo, Sk8 Maven, Grendel, Senor Widebottom, and Captain Dallas. Santa Claus was regaling them all with stories as he sipped a cup of hot cocoa and petted Blok the Pet Rock.

Flanking the fleet of ships were several other powerful LMBers who could survive in space. Rouge, DrakeB3004, Super Lad Kid, Ultras Matt and Jorge, Shining Son, Blacula, all shining with power. One of their newest members, Reflekto, smiled nervously but with determination as she joked with the lighthearted Nam'lor. IB knew they were probably thinking about their friend Kid Gravity, who had to stay behind while he recovered.

As he watched the last of the ships fly by, IB's thoughts went for a second to their teammates still on Legion World, led by Fanfic Lady, Ram Boy and Lightning Lad. He was glad they were safe, and knew they were cheering for the effort even as they did their own part to keep their home safe. Legion World was in the capable hands of Lash Lad, the present-day Matlock, Everyday Girl, Red Arrow, Question Lad, Fat Cramer, Arachne, the Earth-1 Outdoor Miner, Caliente, Frio, Tamper Lad, Nova Girl, Doctor One, the ghost of Numf-El, the LMB Spectre, Thora, Dr. Mayavale, Umber, Sam Pureheart and Giant Robotic Lesbian. IB wished Fat Cramer, Outdoor Miner and Caliente would get the chance to meer their SMB counterparts, at least.

His thoughts then turned towards many absent friends, who couldn't make it today. Long absent... Brave Dev-Em. Disaster Boy, may he finally have found his peace. Grey Birdboy and his majestic wings. Lovely Pagan Lass. The powerful and regal Emerald Empress, who had worked so hard to redeem herself. legionJOHN and Language Arts Lad, who left just so recently. Frankie Muniz and Gary Coleman, who had traveled through time in aid of justice. The Yellow Kid, enemy turned friend. Looks That Kill Lad, himself already a legend. Queen Connie, who had sacrificed herself for the team. Sir Roy, Clive, brave Tomar-Te... They were absent, but not forgotten. And they wouldn't fail them. They wouldn't...

"IB? IB?"

IB was broken out of his reverie by Saturn Girl's telepathic summons. He shook his head as he realized they had finished the hyperspace jump. He quickly zipped to the front of the fleet and joined Angdar Fel and he hovered in front of Rocky.

They were at the site of the Dark Army's portal. IB reached out to Blaze and gripped his hand tightly; he'd almost lost him here, after all. He looked into Blaze's eyes, and they told him all he had to know.

IB spared a glance for the arrayed forces, and smiled. Seven hundred thousand strong. He would memorize this sight forever.

"Legionnaires, please begin," Rocky said simply.

At Angdar's direction, a small group of LMBers that included Kinetix and Blaze focused their powers on the area the portal had stood. IB could "hear" gasps of disbelief over the leadership's telepathic link as space was lit in a bright flash of light.

The portal had been restored. It floated in space, a large, glowing iridescent disk of almost pure white energy.

Cheers erupted all over as Rockhopper Lad stepped forward. "My dear allies, ready yourselves! Today we face the Dark Lord and end his tyranny once and for all!"

The cheers became even louder as Rockhopper Lad prepared to step forward. Suddenly, a figure came hurtling at him behind.

It was Floating Foxlike Creature, and IB had never seen it so terrified. It was still wearing the magical vest that had allowed it to mold the light shield over Weber's World.

"No! Stop! You mustn't do that, or we'll all die!"

The Portal to the Dark Oval,
The United Planets

"No! Stop! You mustn't do that, or we'll all die!" yelled Floating Foxlike Creature, and those in earshot were immediately unnerved by his tone.

“Be calm, my friend,” said Rockhopper Lad steadily. He knew the vast majority of the Allies could not see what was going on and simply were confused about the delay. He wanted to keep it that way. “What is the problem?”

“The portal…” said Floating Foxlike Creature, “…my cosmic awareness is warning me against it! On the other side is grave danger!”

“On the other side should be the coordinates where the Dark Army came from to march on Weber’s World,” said Invisible Brainiac. “No one has tampered with the portal.” He looked at Rockhopper Lad, considering this. “It could be a trap.”

“Indeed it could!” said a voice suddenly, booming above them. “Luckily for you, we have another option!”

“Eryk!” said Rockhopper Lad. Flying down to the Allies was a welcome surprise: Eryk Davis Ester, a long missing Legionnaire whose non-presence had mystified his friends. And by his side, to the shock of the Allies, was Lucifer Lass. Once a great enemy of the LMB, though for years a casual—if not ominous—acquaintance of the LMB on Legion World.

Invisible Brainiac smiled and nodded at their joining. It would make sense Eryk and Lucy would play a part in this considering their blood was so tied into Pornis.

“I wish I had more time for greetings,” said Eryk, “but jeepers, we’ve been pretty busy too!” At the sound of the word ‘jeepers’, Eryk Davis Ester’s pet Luck Lord appeared, and quickly flew towards the portal.

Lucifer Lass spoke, and her voice was still and sinister. “This portal will bring you to where the Dark Army mobilized before the great battle. But we bring you better coordinates. For if you are going to march on the Dark Lord, why not march directly upon his castle? We have worked quietly to gain this knowledge and now is the time to use it. For all that is and ever shall be depends on this army destroying the bane of the world.” With this, she nodded at the Luck Lord, who smiled back.

The Luck Lord seemed to be doing something to the portal, though none could really understand what that was. And at last, he stepped back with a smile on his lips. “All set to go,” he added. “Let the march begin!”

Invisible Brainiac turned to Floating Foxlike Creature and could see the LMBer’s reservations had faded. A smile came across his face and he turned back to Eryk and Lucifer Lass. “Welcome back to the fight.”

Eryk Davis Ester replied: “This time I know our side will win.”



The Space between Spaces

The Allies began their march to the portal and on the other side, the Dark Lord’s Castle came into view. At the armies’ appearance, the Dark Lord immediately knew he had underestimated his enemies and the final battle was upon him. They had caught him by surprise for the moment, but he had been waiting many millennia for this.

And in the Space Between Spaces, the great powers of the Legion watched. For Mearl Dox now revealed to the Phantom Stranger and Lucien Lad why they had been held back all along. “The Dark Lord’s first act will be to close the portal while the Legionnaires are in the middle of transport. It will crush them, and scatter their atoms across the cosmos. And he has the power to do it,” she said quietly.

“Ah,” said the Phantom Stranger. “Now I understand.”

“You could have just told us,” said Lucien Lad annoyed, though he was happy to learn how he could contribute to this final assault. “We will keep the portal open then so the army in full can enter the Dark Realm. Our powers combined should be able to hold him off.”

“Yes,” said Mearl Dox, the Supreme Ruler of the Universe. “We can ensure the Allies reach the great evil; we can only hope they can defeat it.”



The Dark Realm

The ship carrying Lolita, Shark Lad, Zhiya and others arrived in the Dark Realm, and instantly a heavy pressure seemed to weigh down on them. They felt despair—pure, unadulterated despair. It pressed them down hard, as if to crush them immediately. Yet she fought back, and she persevered. They all did. They all faced this first, brutal challenge.

And they rose.

For they were united, and they took strength from one another. For together, they had a chance to end this, once and for all.

<span style="font-size: 20px;">The Battle for All that is Began…</span>

The Allies ATTACK!

"Oh grife, we've teleported straight into hell itself!"

The young soldier's cry echoed the thoughts of so many of the allies. In the distance was a castle, which would have been magnificent if only it were not so malevolent. It radiated pure evil. And from its grounds, horrible, indescribable nightmare creatures were pouring out towards them.

Many of the allies would have frozen, had they not been shocked by the voice of Rockhopper Lad.

"I can feel the evil bearing down on us. But we will not! let! it! win!"

Rockhopper Lad's thunderous voice echoed through the ships' comm systems and the telepathic link amongst the leaders of the allies. As it spread from point to point, each leader ignited the hope he sent and spread it onward.

Rockhopper Lass was the first. She was true to her "brother" and would support him in whatever endeavor he chose, for she trusted his judgment. She raised her arms and encased a giant monstrosity in ice.

Power Boy was next. Gathering the energy around him, he absorbed it and crashed into the block of ice, shattering it and the foul creature within.

"Come on gang, let's make noise! Remember, we're here to give our friends a chance," Jerry called to to those on his ship as he shifted into an Alephian Rainbow Rooster. He flapped his multicolored wings and flew straight for the throat of an advancing centaur.

"Onwards, brave heroes! I didn't come a thousand years into the future to see my friends lose!" shouted mighty Engine Joe as tore through another wall of ghouls.

And the stalwarts of the LMB rose to the challenge. Where lesser mortals might have feared to tread, they waded in despite knowing this battle could be their last.

Poverty Lad and Ultra Matt slammed through hideous creatures dripping venom that withered all else it touched. Harbinger followed, scattering foes to and fro before her. A giant power ring bubble, courtesy of Abin Quank, shielded his allies as they got their bearings. A gigantic Lev Lad's sweeping arm cleared a path for Korbal's lightning bolts to strike at the enemy.

"Onwards, free people of Hrykos," shouted Kalla Hrykos as her hands began to glow. "We have just won our liberty, and we shall not lose it again!"

"I love it when you talk like that," grinned Timberwolf as he slashed through an enemy.

"Come on, Losers! We shouldn't let our Earth-1 counterparts show us up!" yelled Hugh Taylor as he blasted forward, sending a winged gargoyle flying backwards. His fellows from Earth-4 heeded the call and charged as one after him.

"We may not have the Lard Force anymore, but we are still knights!" cried Serj as he thrust his sword into an awful moth with six wings. "Let us fight like the noble knights that we are!"

"Hear that, Space Knights Templar? If our depowered allies can fight so, we must too," said Knightress as she led the charge, with Sir John's two remaining bodies flanking her.

"And if these brave souls can fight so fiercely with just their hearts and their skills, we dare not do any less," said Kar-Em as he led the forces of Daroon into the fray. Ghouls exploded left and right as his powerful force entered the battle.

"Come on, let's go too!" Kinetix yelled as she made sure her suit was alright. "Well? Come on!"

"Right, we need to get in there and keep the momentum going," Blaze added.

"Wait. A lot of things can happen in battle," Invisible Brainiac said. "In case anything happens... I just..."

"This is no time for a speech," Kairos said impatiently. "Our allies need us."

"Don't be so quick, girl," Special Officer Ralph chided. "There may be no turning back now."

"In any case, you all HAVE to be careful, because no amount of antibiotics and a good bedside manner will help if you get eaten by a zombie," Nurse Tina warned.

"I agree. I've had too much fun with all of you to not say anything," said Petty Officer Marvin.

"Me too, actually. I really know now why you LMBers love the LMB so much. I've really felt at home here," said Reflekto.

Danger Damsel let out a small smile. "I don't disagree with you."

"You all better stop before I sniffle," Petty Officer Bugs said as he honked into a handkerchief. "Really, you're all stinkers, making me like you so much!"

Angdar Fel chuckled as he hefted his mace. "Come on now, let's not let this drag on too long. We might lose our fighting spirit."

"BAH! NAM'LOR NEVER LOSE HIS SPIRIT! NAM'LOR NOT EVEN KNOW WHERE IT IS IN FIRST PLACE!" Nam'lor puffed as he beat his chest.

"Hey hey hey hey HEY! I'm all for good vibes, but shouldn't we stop this and go?" Spelling Bee said impatiently as her bees swarmed around her.

"She's right, hon," Blaze said as he placed an arm around IB. "What was it you wanted to say?"

IB slowly turned to face them all, and tilted his head up, jaw firm, hands clenched by his sides. He began to speak...

... then broke out into a grin. "If we get out of this alive, I'm breaking out the bottle of cocoa tequila I snuck from the Legion World supply tent a while back!"

Before they could react, he pulled Blaze by the hand and jumped out of the airlock. <span style="font-size: 30px;">"LET'S GO LEGIONNAIRES!</span> the two yelled as they charged headlong into battle.

"Well, what are we waiting for?" Marvin asked as he shook his head. "I want some of that tequila!"

The small group of friends smiled at each other as they launched themselves forward. One of the best ways to win a war like this was to seriously believe you would.

“INYUK CHUK!” cried SharkLad as he burst forth into the fray.

With that, SharkLad grew to a staggering 100 feet, twice his normal capacity.

“ALRIGHT! LOOKS LIKE MY POWERS ARE STRONGER IN THE DARK REALM. NOW WE GOT A MOTHER-SPROCKING PARTY!”

“Careful, my love,” called the lovely Lolita from below.

“DON’T WORRY, BABE. I’VE GOT THIS!”

SharkLad opened his jaws and let loose a barrage of projectile teeth, taking down swarms of the creatures pouring out of the castle grounds.

“LIKE SHOOTING FISH IN A BARREL,” cried SharkLad, the irony of the expression apparently lost on him.

SharkLad surged forward to the castle, swiping at ghouls left and right, swallowing more than his share as well.

“UGH! THESE SPROCKERS TASTE EVEN WORSE THAT BISMOLLIAN DUNG-BEETLES!”

Letting out a 100 foot belch, SharkLad paused to digest some of the ghouls he’d taken in, giving a swarm of the Dark Lord’s creatures the opportunity to surround him. Momentarily distracted by the pain growing in his stomach, SharkLad allowed himself to be knocked to the ground. As SharkLad’s massive form was sent crashing down, the ground gave way, and SharkLad and the swarm fell into an underground cavern.

“MOTHER-SPROCKER!”

The swarm was relentless, biting and clawing at SharkLad’s prominent dorsal fin. But, just as relentless was the pain SharkLad was experiencing. Bellowing out, SharkLad turned and swatted at the swarm with his talons.

“GONNA BE SICK!”

SharkLad opened his cavernous mouth, but instead of his trademark projectile teeth, out came the ghouls he couldn’t stomach, a disgusting spray of nightmare creatures and acids that blasted the swarm into the depths of the cavern.

“HEY, THAT WORKED PRETTY GOOD!”

Looking up, SharkLad saw another swarm of creatures pouring into the cavern.

“TIME FOR DESSERT!”

***

Back in the ship, Lolita began to worry.

“Where did he go? We need to send someone down there to make sure he’s alright!”

Before anyone could take action, from the massive hole SharkLad had created when he fell, came a spray of vomit that threatened to consume the ship.

“Evasive maneuvers!”

“HEY BABE!” bellowed SharkLad as he leapt from the cavern below. “I LEARNED A NEW TRICK!”

Lolita closed her eyes. “Um, that’s great.”

Deep within the fortress that the righteous invasion force didn't suspect was actually a prison, Chione gave Lard Lad and Cobalt Kid a history lesson that went something like this....


an excerpt from Arun Nal's lost tome, The Book of Priapus:

In the beginning there were the Elder Gods, the survivors of the previous universe that existed prior to the birth of this one, known colloquially as the Big Bang. It is unknown how the Elder Gods survived. Some believe that it was they who destroyed the previous universe, possibly because it had become wicked and needed to be cleansed. For whatever reason, they sought solitude within this nascient universe and allowed all the sentient life that arose remain untouched by their hands.

Eventually, the Elder Gods grew lonely and decided to sire children amongst themselves to give them purpose and to fill the voids in their hearts left from the pangs of missing their old universe. And for a time, they were peaceful and content with their second generation.

But this new generation grew to adulthood and were fascinated by the lifeforms seeding the universe surrounding them. But the Elders strictly forbade interference and, indeed, any sort of interaction. The eldest of this generation, XXXauron, lead all the other offspring in opposition to their parents. Eventually, the sons and daughters slaughtered the fathers and mothers and followed through with their plans to influence the sentients of the universe.

This generation, deemed the Valsinar, became the pantheon of gods to countless sentient races across the universe. On Earth they were the basis for the Greek, Roman and Norse gods, for example.

The Valsinar interacted with sentient life with abandon for time beyond measurement. But eventually, there was a rift within them, based on a fundamental difference in how they felt they should influence their mortal charges.

One faction, led by a goddess called Llilthantra, wanted to structure the lives of mortals very strictly to ensure that they would no longer go to war and would dedicate their lives to the arts and bettering themselves. Essentially, they wanted to eliminate the aspects of their free will that caused destruction and conflict. This faction is sometimes referred to the 'Lords of Order'.

The other faction, lead by XXXauron, favored encouraging man's basest, most vile instincts. They were entertained and amused by conflict and bloodshed. They would rather fan the flames that mortals inevitably burned themselves with their free will and see where it all would lead. This faction is referred to as the 'Lords of Chaos'.

Inevitably, conflict arose between the Lords of Chaos and Order, a long, bloody conflict that raged on for lifetimes. At one point, XXXauron lost one of his eyes to Llilthantra's daughter Hypatia. Her death from the effort and his loss of some of his power from the injury brought about a turning point in the war.

More than anything, it was something unexpected that happened that bought the war to a close. XXXauron and Llilthantra's close friend Chione fell deeply in love. Their love united the two factions and helped them find compromise in their philosophies. For the most part, they would allow free will and simply inspire great warriors and great philosophers and artists along the way.

XXXauron and Chione had nine children. Eight of them were bastions of the new philosophy of inspiration and non-interference, but the middle child, Priapus, went hard against the grain. He was born with one single eye, and he immediately knew he was different.

Priapus was incredibly powerful and felt he was born to rule all creation as he saw fit. He went rogue and razed whole worlds at his whim. When the Valsinar and the fellows of his own generation opposed him, he killed scores of them, including several of his own brothers and sisters.

Llilthantra and Chione feared that Priapus would slaughter them all and looked to the past for inspiration. If Priapus could fall in love as XXXauron did, perhaps he too would have the fire inside him quelled. So Llilthantra offered up the hand of her own grandaughter Una, the daughter of Hypatia, to Priapus for marriage. Una herself was quite willing, believing this to be the only solution for peace.

This proved disastrous! Una, in her heart, was fundamentally an Orderist, while Priapus was the most extreme example of a Chaotist ever known. The marriage was over shortly after it had begun. Una fled from him, but not before she'd become pregnant with twins from their brief union.

After that briefest of respites, the war between Priapus and the rest of the gods raged on with Priapus's advantage growing greater and greater with each god he slew. The gods tried every tactic they could think of to stop him. Priapus's youngest sibling Hero even used his superior intellect to genetically engineer a race of 'New Gods' to bolster their forces.

But Llilthantra saw the inevitable conclusion of this conflict and hoped to spare her grandaughter and unborn great-grandchildren from the final slaughter. She urged Una to flee through space and time to the future and to have her children and then hide them from their father however she saw fit. Thus, cut off from the conflict, Una never saw exactly how it ended.

It ended when Priapus invaded a pocket dimension where most of the gods and New Gods were martialling their forces. This was a home that Chione had made for herself long before her marriage to XXXauron. It was also the site of their last, desperate ploy to defeat Priapus.

As Priapus raged in battle against his father one on one, all of the surviving gods gave their power to Chione, sacrificing themselves in the process. Meanwhile, the New Gods built a great, structure according to the specifications of their creator Hero.

Both growing to collossal size, XXXauron held off his son as long as he could manage, until the point where Priapus finally slew him and cast his father's lifeless body triumphantly into normal space where millions of insectoid children that Pornis had already sired would feed on it.

All that was left was Chione. She had sent the New Gods away when their task was complete. Heading toward her, Pornis set aflame his mother's entire home, but when he reached her, Chione stood her ground and the spot where she stood was untouched. With tears in her eyes, she took her son's hand and teleported them both within the structure which had been designed to imprison and contain Priapus. The cost was that she would have to stay there for all time for it to work. But she did so gladly to honor the sacrifice of her husband, children and fellows and as punishment for her perceived failure as a mother.

And there they lay ever since. But Priapus's power was such that his influence could bleed out into the universe. As instructed, the New Gods did all they could to counterbalance this by influencing myth in such a way as to make Priapus have seemed little more than a joke to discourage worshippers. He was portayed as a fairly pitiful being who always had a constant erection but could never find a lover, even through force. Some worshipped him in spite of this as a god of passion and virility, but these were not significant numbers.

But Priapus was persistent, and eventually his influence spread. A centerpiece to achieving this was his reaching out to a rogue named Titus who gave the New Gods all they could handle, conquering many of them. It is unknown whether Titus was a rogue New God, a survivor among Priapus's generation, a powerful ghoul or merely a mortal empowered through Priapus's influence. Many were destroyed or neutralized as the survivors cowered in fear.

Priapus learned a degree of patience and built up his influence into a great circle of power. This circle would feed him through rampant destruction in his name, and when the time came, the five powers that comprised it would be sacrificed for him. The last of them would be claimed by him when he finally escaped imprisonment.

The last piece needed to provide his freedom was his son Anotaylus, the one who had inherited his power. Priapus would need to lure Anotaylus to his prison through a complex web of deception, a plan that began with Una believing she had destroyed Priapus. This was a mere doppleganger he had created, and it worked because Una never knew of his imprisonment.

Priapus knew that he would have to temporarily sacrifice his own immortality by allowing Anotaylus to destroy the Eye of XXXauron. But he also knew that he would regain it, along with his freedom, by slaying his son within his prison. His mother and warden Chione would fall as well.

Priapus knew that once he was freed, he would no longer need the Great Army he'd built through countless years of his dark influence. He would toy with this universe until he grew bored.

And then, he would destroy it and start anew with one of his own creation. And from there? Not even Priapus knows.

As Chione completed her story, Lard Lad's mind raced. Finally, he said, "but what if I just leave? Wouldn't that destroy his plan?"

Chione shook her head. "No, grandson. This prison was built to contain your father and his power. You share a portion of his power, and it recognizes this. It allowed you in, but you and your father can't escape unless one of you dies." She looked toward Cobalt. "It might let your brother out, however."

Cobie shook his head. "I'm not leaving him behind."

Chione smiled and stroked Cobie's bearded face. "I knew you wouldn't."

Lardy added grimly, "so if I killed myself to keep my father from doing it..."

"...you would simply be making his job that much easier. It doesn't matter whether he commits the act himself", Chione shuddered, "though I know it is his fondest preference."

"Then I'll fight him, grandma. If he killed his father, and his father killed his father...I can kill mine."

Chione smiled. "My sweet boy...as powerful as you are and have the potential to be, you are not even close to a match for your father. Even the two of you combined would be very little trouble for him."

As Lardy frowned and bowed his head, she lifted his chin and added, "but I am! I still have most of the power that all of the gods sacrificed themselves to give me. It should be enough to, once and for all, put down the rabid animal that is my son."

"But can you, Chione?" Cobalt asked her with great empathy. "Can you kill your own son?"

She looked at him very meaningfully, as if she knew about Cobie's mother's own attempt on his life many years ago. "It's not that I can, sweet boy, it's that I must. He killed all of his brothers and sisters as well as his father, the love of my life. He means to kill the two of you, Eryk and all that you care for...and all that is. Yes, I will kill my son...because I must."

Both put a hand on either of her shoulders until a thought occurred to Cobie. "Why hasn't Pornis attacked us yet?"

"The energy walls of the inner prison keep have held for the moment, but they won't hold for long. They were maintained by my long sleep, one that I can no longer go back into. He will be free to enter the outer prison soon enough."

"Grandma", Lardy said softly, "how do you know he won't kill you?"

Chione smiled and replied, "as part of the sacrifice my fellow gods made, they gifted me with an enchantment that prevents Priapus from being able to harm me directly, or indirectly with his creatures."

Lardy and Cobie remembered the oasis and nodded toward each other.

Then, a thought occurred to Cobie. "How could he not account for that all this time?" Cobalt asserted. "All this effort knowing that the means to his defeat was within the prison all along?"

This stumped her for a moment. Finally, she shrugged, "I suppose in my son's arrogance he must think that all the power he's accumulated since would be enough. Who knows? He may even be correct..."

Those words gave the two men pause, but she interrupted them by urging them, "but enough of this, boys! We must dilly-dally no more and get to the inner keep quickly! He will be much easier to dispose of while confined to a small space. Follow me!"

She walked down an adjoining passageway, and the two followed lockstep behind her toward their destiny.

Far behind them watched a ghostly figure, apparently forgotten for the moment by the heroes. Though she still glowed, she was no longer transparent.

And in her hands, Mordra clutched a dagger.