Terra’s Revenge

© The Elves of Alterverse

Chapter 1: Wolves in the Fold

Late September 2001, just outside the District of Columbia in Virginia:  Our Earth

Len drove his car into the garage beside his small house.  Sighing, he turned off the engine, hoping to hear nothing except the silence of his garage.  But the sound of his two barking dogs shattered that silence.  Resigned, he triggered the remote to his garage and got out of his car.

Another lovely day at work. Just lovely.  And as soon as we bury the dead we prepare for war.  Yuck. God, I wish there was an alternative.  At least I’m home…Maybe I can get my mind off of it for a while!  Len opened his side door.  His dogs, Doiby and Princess ran up to greet him.

“Hey guys, how’re my pups??”  He strolled into his bedroom, changed into his running clothes, put his dogs on their leashes, and headed back out the door.

I’m so glad to be home!  God, this is a beautiful night!  This must have been a beautiful late summer day.  He warmed up and ran with his dogs down the jogging trail.  They ran at a steady pace for almost three miles.  Finally, he gradually slowed and reduced their pace to a walk.  They walked the last mile back to their home.

Jenna Marx stood in her front yard enjoying the cool evening air.  He called to her.

“Hi Jenna!  How’s Michael?”  The dogs both pulled him towards her.

She smiled with satisfaction. “Doing very well!  I just got his report card.  He went up a grade in almost every subject.  You were right, it was just a personality conflict. Sometimes even the best student runs into an instructor he just can’t get along with.  He’s a lot happier.  And when he’s happy, I’m happy!”  Her eyes sparkled.  “Time for a quick glass of Lemonade?  I’ll bring it out.”

“Thanks, Jenna. I’d like that.” Len watched her walk inside.  I buried Maggie five years ago.  And Jenna has been such a great friend.  I wish we could be more.  But I just can’t shake the feeling that my future is not with her.  And I do wish I could shake that feeling!

“Here you go, Len!” She handed him a glass.  He took it and let the cool juice slide down his throat.

“Jenna, I don’t know how you do it.  Great friend, great cook.  It’s a wonder you’ve remained single.”

“Not for lack of trying, Len.”  She teased him.  “Not for lack of trying.  When are you going to make me an honest woman?  Or even a dishonest woman?”

As occasionally happened, Len found himself out of sync with reality.  For a brief moment, he flashed on the image of a youngish white-haired woman with a sword at her side.  The woman had an unusual strength about her, as well as highly arched eyebrows and distinctly pointed ears.  She almost spoke to him.  Come to me, my Champion.  It is time for you to return home.

“Len?”  Jenna interrupted his reverie.  “Are you all right?”

“No.”  He answered honestly. “Weird… I thought I saw someone for a second.  But it isn’t anyone from this Earth.”

Jenna snorted.  “Sounds like some of my more recent dates.”  Then her eyes filled with concern.  “Len I know that you’ve been working so hard these last two weeks.  Take some time for yourself.  Go in a little late tomorrow, they’ll forgive you.”

Len smiled gently.  “Very wise advice.  Thank you.  I think I’ll do that.  I do feel tired this evening.”

“And if that doesn’t help,” she cautioned, “go see a doctor.  You’re not invulnerable, you just think you are.”

“Guilty.”  He volunteered.  “Well, let’s see how I feel tomorrow.”

He returned the glass to her and they said their goodbyes.  Then he walked home with his dogs.  I keep seeing that same face.  Something is happening—something far beyond my power to control.

I will make that appointment with the doctor. 

He opened his front door.  As soon as he walked through the door, the phone rang.  A familiar voice greeted him.

“Uncle Len, are you OK?  You don’t sound right.”

He answered honestly.  “I don’t know Sandy.  I’m enjoying better health than I have in years.  But something isn’t right.  Something is going to change in my life.”

Sandy answered slowly.  “Uncle Len, I’ve learned never to discount your instincts.  I owe my life to them.  I will never forget that scene between you and my father.  It only took one little incident, but you knew how dangerous my father had become.”

He felt the pain in her words. “Daddy might have killed me within the week—you barely got me out in time. Not only that, but you and Maggie made a life for me.”  She brightened. “You know how much I love you.  So, when are you going to make Jenna an honest woman?”  She heard him chuckle.

“The thought has crossed my mind.”  He smiled fondly.  “But I haven’t made her a dishonest woman, yet.”  He grinned.  “Oh Sandy, it is so good to talk to you!  A good way to end a tiring day.”

He could hear her concerned smile.  “Uncle, I have to admit I’m worried about you—you’re all I’ve got. I’ll call you before you go to work tomorrow, OK?”

“Sandy, please do.”  He replied with fondness.  “Be my blessed ray of sanity.  You don’t know how important that is to me.”

He heard her relax.  “Good night Uncle Len, I’ll talk to you in the morning.”

“Good night Sweetheart!”  He gently set the phone in its cradle.  He hummed as he fed his dogs and microwaved a small dinner.

Len ignored the work he had brought home.  Instead, he searched the Internet.  Dylan Clearbrook-The Return.  The return of Supergirl.  Ah well, Dylan, I wish it were all so simple.  But this world doesn’t have such heroes—only ordinary men who do the best they can.  Otherwise, who knows?  Maybe even I would be flying around the universe.  He chuckled at the thought.  Well, I guess I’ve got time to read a few pages.  But as he prepared to read, he felt a chill.  Tomorrow I call the doctor.  He turned off the computer and walked outside to gaze at the stars.  Why do I feel like my life is no longer mine?

But the heavens did not deign to answer him.  He walked back inside and turned in for the night.

As he lost himself to sleep, he thought he heard a woman’s voice.  “Three times will I shine and then you’ll be mine!”

Alterverse, the Planet Altan

The old sage hid himself carefully.  The Kayzik swarm will not find me here!  I am still safe.  But I must ensure they never gain my perceptions.  Perhaps I can hold out until the Shantar return.  Perhaps I can share the Assassin’s dream – the return of the champion stolen from us too soon.  Perhaps…  The sage was of the old people—the mystics with their extended senses.

He felt something shift.  Something is happening.  Something has changed the future.  Something has invalidated our prophecies of triumph and of doom.  His mystic senses overwhelmed him.  Odd, it is a sense of awakening.  Such a strong feeling!  It is almost a parent who has reclaimed its dying child.  But the parent is puzzled.  The dying ember has become something different—something deadly. I must live long enough to report this...

What do I sense?  An incredible surge of power!  Living fire?  And more.  The prophecy I knew only allowed for one champion.  Has it changed?  Or has he…no, that is impossible.  Another thought warmed him.  But the Champion was a creature of the impossible.  A wide smile crossed the sage’s lips.

The old sage had been lost in thought far too long.  He had been discovered.  Fortunately, he had enough time to send a message and then to protect his people—poisons worked rapidly on his aged body.

Our Earth—the following morning

Jenna jogged towards Len’s house.  He did seem overly tired last night.  I hope he’s all right.  Strange he wouldn’t answer a call from Sandy.  Jenna knocked on Len’s door and called to him.  Hearing no response, she walked around to his garage.  Peering inside, Jenna spotted his car. 

Jenna used her cell phone to call Sandy.  Len’s niece arrived in record time.  She unlocked the door and the two of them began to scour the house.  They found nothing but a decayed corpse in Len’s bed.

Police testing later revealed the corpse had Len’s DNA.  But the corpse had been decaying for at least 65 years.  The forensic pathologist found bits of wood in two small spots on the rib cage—as if the deceased had been killed by an archer.

Alterverse, Earth—One week later

Oh, my head!  What time…  Len opened his eyes and looked around.  He found himself at the base of a tree, in a heavily forested area.  His clothes were unfamiliar to him.  They seemed to be from a time long gone.  Early 1940s?  Odd.  Where the hell am I?  I don’t recognize this place. 

Len stood up.  This isn’t right—I’m much too tall!  And I’ve never felt this strong.  The scars are gone from my hands.  And no age spots.  He scanned the horizon.  What is this?  This tree is in my back yard.  What is it doing here?  Odd!  Well at least I’ve got sturdy clothing and good shoes.  Damned good vision, too.  He got up and walked towards the nearest sound—a trickling stream: the same stream that ran behind his house.

This water tastes good, but a little metallic.  Wonder why?  He heard other sounds to the west and began to walk.  Soon, he found an old asphalt road where he had remembered none before.  It looked fairly well traveled.  He walked towards it and then began to walk down it.

A few minutes later, Len heard something approach from the opposite direction.  Cautious, he stepped off the road to watch it pass.  What vision of hell is this? I don’t know what is driving that thing, but it’s not human!  He waited until it was out of sight and returned to his walk.  He spotted a sign.  Washington, DC - twenty miles?  Why isn’t there any traffic??  He kept walking.

“Well, well, well, what kind of idiot Kayzik spy have I caught today?”  She stepped from the shadows to stand beside him, weapon in hand.  Tall and slender, her work clothes did not hide the clean grooming or the long white hair.  She had the same coloring as the woman in his dreams.  And the same pointed ears. “I don’t know what your story is, but you move far too freely for a Terran. You even let yourself get caught.”  She growled.  “Don’t worry, I’ll be happy to send you to the hell you’ve tried to sink this planet into!”

“What are you talking about?” Len asked with confusion.  “I don’t even know where I am.  How far out of Washington am I?  How the hell did I get here?  What is today?”

“You’re much too disoriented to be a Kayzik J’Dinn spy.”  She answered quickly.  “Today is June 20, 2006 in the Terran calendar: I don’t particularly care what the date is in the Kayzik calendar.  But I’m surprised the Kayzik haven’t taken you yet.”  She snickered.  “Maybe an idiot’s soul makes for a poor demon!” 

He growled.  “Lady, I don’t know what your game is.  It’s September 20, 2001.  Nine days ago, terrorists bombed the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.  The United States of America is declaring war on the terrorists!”  He shook his head angrily. “And what the hell is a Kayzik??”  This gets more bizarre all the time.

“Terran, you really are clueless.”  She sighed.  “Don’t you know anything about the war?”  He nodded side to side.  “Do you know what a Kayzik is?”  Same nod.  “United States of America—that ended not long after the invasion started and the champion was killed—shot with a wooden arrow through the heart.  Sixty five years ago.”

He felt a chill.  That means something—it’s the reason I’m here.  Wooden arrow—my name, maybe Jenna was right—the name I have to face.  It still seems like a strange dream, though.  “What invasion are you talking about?  The Nazis?”

She looked through him.  “No, you’re definitely not a J’Dinn spy for the Kayzik.  You’re not a mutant, either.  I don’t know what you are, but there is a purity to your aura. It’s human, but there’s something more to you.  You are unusual!” She prompted. “2001?  What do you know about the London rebellion?  That happened in 2000.”

“Right after Y2K?”  He grimaced.  My bearings are screwed up.  How could I have blanked out for five years?  “Queen Elizabeth is still queen, but parliament is running the country.”

“Queen Elizabeth?”  She answered with growing confusion.  “The last monarch was King George.  Then the Kayzik slew the royal family.  What is a Y2K??”  Now, she was confused.

200 Yards Away

The Kayzik necromancer sensed the two of them.  It guided two warriors toward Len and his companion.  Once in position, the warriors charged the two of them without warning.

A knife cut towards Len.  As he sidestepped it, Len watched in horror as his new acquaintance appeared to lose consciousness.  Then Len felt the warrior slice him with its knife.  The bastard tried to cut me!  Len’s instincts kicked in immediately.  He charged the creature. 

The creature stared at him.  It was ugly:  two legs, four arms, six eyes and a hellish orange red.  Len made a desperate lunge for its blaster.  He grabbed it and blasted the creature.  It flamed and disappeared.  He blasted its companion with the same result.  Spotting the necromancer behind the tree, he fired again. The necromancer screamed as both it and the tree disintegrated.

His companion shook herself as if awakening from a bad dream.  “They cut you.  I saw it.  Why didn’t it kill you?  How did you resist the mind control?  Mind you, I’m not complaining, but what protected you?”

He shrugged.  “I don’t know—this is still all a bad dream to me.  But I couldn’t have been cut.  There’s no wound.  Curious though: there’s blood on the shirt.  Hmm—Is President Bush still President?”

She frowned.  “I told you.  The United States has not existed for 65 years.  The last president was Franklin Roosevelt.  He was killed by a J’Dinn assassin.  They’ve run the world since then—ever since the champion was killed.”

“That does it.”  He smiled warily.  “Either this is a bad dream, or I’m not on my Earth.  I’m Len, Len Scott!”  He held out his hand in greeting.”

Len Scott, related to??  “Garja Jenna.  Here, let me see your side!”  She looked where the knife had cut through his clothes.  No injury?  I saw the blood!  I see it on his shirt.  But he’s completely unharmed, now.  Definitely not J’Dinn—it’s a special bond between them.  They won’t kill each other under any circumstances. 

I wonder what she will make of him.  I hate dealing with an assassin.  They have no feelings for any one.  But I have no choice.  On the off chance he might be a spy, I can’t take him back to the human camp and I can’t leave him here.  “Come on, we’re going for a walk.  I need to get some help.  You’re a mystery I can’t solve and I won’t leave a fellow warrior alone to die.”

“Fellow warrior?”  He asked with confusion.  This is a nasty dream.  I hope I wake up quickly. Len followed her.

City of Tylol, Planet of Daxam

Kiragee Tennan looked up to her student. 

“Targan, how do you ever expect to defend yourself from the Kayzik?  You must be better prepared.  Let’s try that move again!”  Kiragee was a tall Daxamite woman, but not uncommonly so.  Her slender figure belied her strength.

“I can’t believe it!”  Targan groused.  “I’m twice your size!  Not only are you fast, but you’re so strong!  I can’t keep up with you.  Can anyone?”  He considered attacking as soon as her guard was down, but quickly reconsidered—her guard never went down.

“Targan, you know the Kayzik use Daxam for a feeding ground.  They take us up one by one and poison us with lead.   Then they steal our life-forces.  The only thing we can do is to make it so costly, they won’t try it again.”  Her intensity intimidated him. “They’ve been overhead longer than we’ve been alive.  The only way we can be free of them is to have the strength to fight them off.”

“Intimidating your students again, my beloved daughter?”  An older man walked into the martial arts studio. “That will just make them run to the Kayzik to escape your training. Sometimes I have a hard time believing you’re the same child who worshiped her pet bjork.”

“You have a pet bjork?”  Targan laughed.  “You, who tears the rest of us apart?  A cute little bjork?  Haw, haw!  I can’t believe it!”  Targan would not miss this opportunity to tease.

Kiragee sighed.  “Yes, I do.  It’s old; I’ve had it for many years.  But my father may be correct: I’ve pushed you very hard today.  I have to admit you’ve done very well.  Next time, we’ll practice that hold again—just remember to hold with your right leg, not your arms.”

She relaxed.  “Targan, you are a good student.  I just wish I could teach you more quickly. Go home and rest.”  She smiled at her student.  “May you escape the Kayzik for a good long time.  If not, promise me you’ll not go down easily??” She turned to her father.

“What is Jakar Tennan doing in my little martial arts shop?”

“Isn’t it enough to be proud of my daughter?”  Jakar smiled with a hint of pride.  Then his mood turned somber.  “I must talk to you this evening.  I must make you aware of things that are happening elsewhere.  Please say that you will come!”  His eyes flamed.

Concern showed in her expression. “Father, you’re usually very stoic.  If it means that much to you, I’ll certainly be there.  I have no appointments that are as important as you are!”

“Thank you.”  He nodded gracefully.  I hope that after this evening, you will still feel that way. I must go.”  He headed out of the little shop.  That one word:  I’m going to lose my daughter, but my contact on Altan paid for the word with his life.

The Assassin’s Camp, Earth

Garja Jenna pleaded with a smaller woman.  “Commander, I did not know what else I could do, so I brought him here.  I’m sorry, but I have a touch of the old gift and I know what I saw.  He killed three Kayzik—their mind control did not work on him.”  She could kill me where I stand. She’s an assassin.  I never forget that.  I never know whether I’ve pleased her or not.

The smaller woman considered her words.  She somewhat resembled Garja, but the Pixie look was even more pronounced.  “I don’t have time for this mystery.  We’ve endangered our guest by bringing him here.”

“Guest?”  Garja queried.

“It doesn’t matter now.”  The assassin announced.  “Come on out Katherine.”  A small Terran woman emerged from behind a tree.  “You might as well see this, too.”

They walked over to Len Scott.  The assassin challenged.  “Terran, turn around so that we can get a good look at you!”

He spun around.  His eyes widened as he viewed the assassin.  You’re the woman in the vision.  Who are you?  “What?  I’m sorry.  I’m Len Scott.”

The smaller woman looked at him.  Her eyes flashed with unexpected recognition.  Then, he saw shock.  Suspicious, she glared at him.  “How many people in the group behind me?”

“Eight.”  Len answered confidently.

“There’s only three!” Katherine protested.

“Katherine, everything is not as it seems.”  The assassin stated.  “Mr. Scott, I know who you are.  Why don’t you use your real name?”  She asked with genuine curiosity.

“I haven’t used that name in almost 55 years.”  He laughed.  “It is associated with fiction in my world.”

“Fiction in yours, but more than that in ours.”  She emphasized.  “There are words of power in the universe and your name is one of them.”  She turned to leave.  “Excuse me.  Wait—I sense your confusion.  Know this—your place is here and I will guide you.  You have nothing to fear from me.  How old are you?”

“I’m 65 years old.” Len recounted.  “Just had another birthday.”

“Excuse me.”  She walked over to a small cave and whispered to someone inside.  A one-word message was transmitted to another world.

Tylol, Daxam

Jakar Tennan reveled in his daughter’s company.  Kiragee saw genuine pleasure in his expressions: pleasure mixed with pain just below the surface.  I love my father, but he’s not told me anything.  Perhaps after dinner, he’ll tell me. 

Kiragee helped her father clean up afterwards.  I hope he’s not going to give me another lecture about my devotion to the martial arts.

He did not disappoint.  “My daughter, I want you to know that I am proud of you.  You drive your students, but your fighting skills will make a true difference—especially where you are going!” 

Kiragee could not hide her confusion.  “You always told me I should not fight the Kayzik, father!”

The old man smiled. “I know how you have always thought your place was here, fighting the Kayzik. You were created to fight the Kayzik.  You know that.  You want to believe your battleground is here.  It’s not.  You must leave, tonight.  I have received two confirming messages.  Your place is no longer on Daxam.”

“What messages?” She replied with shock.  “Why would I be so special?  I do not want to die of lead poisoning on a foreign world!”

His eyes sparkled at the words “lead poisoning.”

How odd!  “Show me the messages, Father!”  She looked at the two communications and gazed at her father in confusion.  One from a planet called Altan, the other from a planet called Earth.  “Heart of a star?  What does that mean?”

He sighed.  “It means everything you believe about your life here is a lie.  It is time for you to go fight the Kayzik on a world where you can make a real difference.  You won’t be alone.  Something has happened.  Something impossible.”

“Kiragee, do you remember the destruction of the medical center?  No one was harmed, but our family records were lost?  Everything in your mother’s and my medical histories?  It was not an accident. I’ve heard the jokes and rumors.  They are true. You are not my child.  But you were not hers either.” 

Kiragee was stunned into silence.  He continued.  “Now, I must tell you the real story.  Have you ever heard of a planet called Krypton?”

She recovered quickly.  “Krypton?  The Kryptonians destroyed their world to prevent the invasion.  There was a single rocket that escaped.  It was rumored to bear a child’s matrix.  That made no sense.  The child would have died anyway, because of the Kryptonians’ genetic flaw.  The ship was destroyed two solar systems away from Krypton.  Wasn’t it headed to a planet called Earth?  A miserable mudball from all I’ve heard.”  Kiragee’s curiosity rose.

Jakar smiled.  His eyes twinkled.  “Do you know what happens when a Daxamite leaves Daxam for a yellow sun?”

“Sure,” she answered with certainty, “he gains super powers.  And on almost any world, he quickly dies of lead poisoning.”

He chuckled.  “What would happen to a Kryptonian who grew up on Daxam and left for a yellow sun world?”

She grew emphatic. “They couldn’t because of the genetic flaw that bound them to that world.”

He smiled.  “Let me tell you of the house of ‘El’, and a man named Jor-El.  Jor-El removed the fatal gene from his progeny.  He had two children.  One was sent to Earth. The rocket was obvious and easily located.  We never heard from it after it entered Kayzik space.  The other child was in a rocket hidden in a message transport.  The message transport completely disintegrated two solar systems away from Daxam, releasing the hidden rocket.  It arrived before the Kayzik could discover it.  We’ve kept it carefully hidden since you arrived.  It will take you to Earth.”

“This can’t be.”  Kiragee started shaking.

Jakar nodded proudly.  “Do you remember when you were much younger?  No one believed you when you said you scaled the cliff of Donak.  My child, it really is lead lined.  It would have killed any Daxamite painfully and quickly.  Remember that I wouldn’t allow you to experience the pain of lead during any of our rituals?  Everyone thought it was because I considered you such a delicate little girl:  quite the opposite.  You would experience no pain.  That’s why we had to destroy your mother’s family’s medical files—the Kayzik would have known that you weren’t ours.  That would have given them enough leads to realize what you are.  But now I’ve raised you and you must go.  Go, knowing you carry all our hopes with you, Kira Jor-El. You will know your ally, when you find him.  Think green.”

Jakar led his daughter down the stairs.  They shuttled to a hidden base.  A short time later, a rocket breached a blind spot in the Kayzik perimeter and headed towards a mudball in the sky.

Jakar smiled grimly.  I wish I had your courage—you left without a thought for yourself!  I will miss you, but today I have rammed a vicious weapon down the throat of the Kayzik.  I have no regrets!

“Make us proud my daughter.  Find your ally.  Know you made my life worthwhile!” He took the poison. 

The Assassin’s camp, Earth, the following day

“I’m supposed to be looking for a green piece of glop to fall from the heavens?”  Len was incredulous.  “I remember the story.  It was a nice tale.”

“Human, you irritate me.”  The assassin growled.  “OK, let’s try again.  The last champion’s instruments of power disintegrated upon his death.  Now, I’m Elise Zoldar, the Command Assassin of the Shantar who leads the small band of us on this world.  I’m going to teach you what you need to know to survive in this reality.  I know why you’ve been called.  We will find your instruments of power.”

“This is too much.” Len sighed.  “I’m going for a walk.  I’ll be back.”  Len headed into the woods.  She watched him walk away.

“Garja, he’s truly frustrating.  He knows the legend, but chooses not to comprehend what role he plays.  Despite that, I can sense that he is far more intuitive and worldly than the first champion.  He has an unquenchable spirit and he grasps complex ideas without effort.  I do hope he will allow us to guide him once he finds the instruments of power.”  Elise looked up at the taller woman.  She smiled.  “Thank you for bringing him to us!  I will care for him.  I do know what you saw.”

“Ma’am, I thank you.” Garja’s relief showed.  “I did not know what to do.  I could not leave him. Should I have taken him to the humans first?”

“NO!”  Her eyes blazed. “I knew the first champion.  This is the same man.  Different worlds and maturity, but he’s still the same person.  Remember his age. Coincidence?  I can’t believe it.”  She leaned against a tree.  “Garja, I’ve made the call.  The Kryptonian is coming.  It could be sticky if we don’t have the instruments of power before the Kryptonian arrives.  Find Katherine and put out the message.  If it’s green and falls from the heavens we must know.  Then return—I need your instincts here.  You will never understand how critical they were to what we have done yesterday and today.  We thank you!

Garja blushed. “You’re thanking me?”

Elise nodded.  “I know you have always wondered about me.  You can be sure of my protection from this day forward.  Now,”

The ground shook. Trees on all sides flared into living fire and quickly disintegrated.  But the fire spread.  Elise looked for her troops.  Retribution for the creatures the champion killed.  We should have left the area.  “EVERYONE DOWN, We’re under attack!”

Bombs fell from the heavens as a half dozen Kayzik craft strafed the woods.

“Where is he?  Where is Alan?”  Elise was almost frantic.  Not again, not before I’ve had a chance to train him! NO!

“Alan?”  Garja asked with confusion.  I’ve never seen her frightened before! Why is she calling him that?

“Where is Alan Scott?”  The assassin ran to where Len had exited the settlement.  I must find him!

One of her troops yelled.  “We saw him over there in that clearing by the edge of the forest!”

Elise ran to where she could see better.  Thanks to her enhanced senses, she could see him. Tragically, she realized that he was surrounded by burning trees.  Then, with a loud snapping sound, one of the trees fell down towards him.  Flaming trees.  He stands no chance at all.  I did not even hear him scream.  The falling tree must have killed him instantly.  Even with the instruments of power, he could not have survived that.

The tear that streamed down the assassin’s face shocked Garja Jenna.  Elise spoke with great pain…hardly what Garja expected from an assassin.  “We almost had a real chance. We …”

Two minutes earlier, 500 yards away

This is getting to me.  Len Scott marched out of the camp.  This has all been so incredible.  Now I’m supposed to find a mystic train lantern and spend the rest of my life avoiding trees?  I don’t think so!  Maybe this is Hell—I couldn’t imagine a world more desolate.  Everybody hides.

I’m not used to hiding.  I’ve always fought my challenges head on. No, not always.  But I learned.  He had walked next to a clearing.  Another challenge.  I wonder.  Is this the afterlife?  Or something else?  And why do they care so much about my legal name?

I’ve certainly taken enough grief over it during my lifetime. 

He breathed in the fresh air.  No pollution in it.  Seems so different.  And maybe I’m different here. 

He came to an odd peace with himself.  A comic book character.  I was named after a comic book character.  Could’ve been worse.  I could have been Clark Joseph Kent, rather than Alan Wellington Scott.

He felt an odd sensation.  Strange.  Well, Alan Scott was at least always a hero.  He always stood for what he believed was right.  He felt another sensation—the lighting of kindling—the first spark of something.

This is a world without hope, without a respect for life.  And that’s what he was… the champion of life.  He sensed a mystic fire, smoldering beneath the surface for far too long, break through the earth and reignite.

No.  He smiled.  I am not to be the Green Lantern.  But I am here to continue the legend.

Then the ground shook—he heard explosions around him.  Just great, I seem to have made even more new friends.  The trees surrounding him lit with flame. Then, he could hear someone call his name.  He watched as a toppling tree roared towards him.

Instincts drove his next moves.  Emerald fire surged, propelling him into the heavens.  As he rose, power surged from him into the falling tree.  It disintegrated in a mid-air flash of green.

Scott, one; tree, zero! Len Scott sneered as he blasted skywards towards his attackers.  His clothing shifted into a costume the fictional Alan Scott had worn when he had first wielded the internalized power of the Sentinel.  Mostly green and red, with a green cape, the costume featured a starburst centered on the top of a red trunk.  The price of freedom:  Eternal vigilance… of the Sentinel.

He wrapped a tendril of green flame around a flaming tree.  Angrily, Len threw that tree towards one of the attacking craft.  The tree accelerated skywards and collided with the attacker, forcing the craft to spiral off course.  It slammed into the ground and exploded.

Rage fueled his emerald fire.  The Kayzik saw a creature from their worst visions of Hell. A great bird of fire framed the man.  The green phoenix left a blazing trail.  The airborne craft fired on him almost immediately, but the energy simply reflected off of his invulnerable shields.

The Shantar watched, wide-eyed.  Elise was the first to speak.  “Even I would never have believed this!  He does not carry a weapon.  He is the weapon!  Amazing.” Her eyes filled with wonder.

Green flame flared from his hands.  He thought ruefully.  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the Shadow, I shall fear no evil.  For I am the meanest son of a bitch in the valley.  Another Kayzik craft exploded in the air.

Elise realized Kayzik craft were no longer working together.  “Brilliant!  He has jammed their communications!  The Starheart picked a fine piece of work.  Look at how carefully he moves!  Now, he is ensuring we are not inadvertent targets!”  She called back to her troops.  “Fade back everyone, and prepare to move!  We have to evacuate; this area will attract attention!”

Another craft fired on him.  Not today, you won’t!  He held his shields—the energy weapon reflected back to the Kayzik craft, destroying it.  Five down, one to go!  The final craft flew into an oversized train lantern and exploded.  He thought grimly:

And I shall shed my light over dark evil,

For the dark, evil things cannot stand the light,

The light of the Green Lantern!

He felt sick.

Elise sported a frighteningly vicious smile. “Send a message—Starheart defeated the prophecy.  The champion has returned.  You lose.  Send it to my father. Got it?”

“Got it Ma’am!”  The communications specialist confirmed.  I’d hate to be the clerk who delivers that message!

“Garja!”  Elise called.  “Go find Katherine.  We need her team to help track where the Kryptonian will land.”

“Yes Ma’am.”  Garja answered.  “How will we find you?”

“You won’t.”  Elise answered crisply.  “We’ll find you.  He’s met you.  He’ll find you. Move it, Kid!”  Elise watched her go. 

Now, the assassin had to find Alan Scott. We put him through so much today, and he came through for us!  I will watch after him.  He will be a great—will be—HA!  I only hope we’re worthy of his friendship. She shook her head to clear her thoughts.  He’s only a tool.  Why do I care so much about the man? I didn’t before.  But, he wasn’t THIS before.  Or have I changed?

“Scatter, people! Reassemble at Beta!  I will join you when I can.”

The Constellation of Scorpio

The rocket skipped out of hyperspace and almost immediately re-entered it.  The young woman did her best to keep it on course.  Careful, Kira!  I can stay on course if I just try.  Now, what were those instructions?  Here we go!

“My dear daughter, my name is Jor-El of Krypton.  If you are hearing this, then you have reached your age of majority and one of my desperate gambles has paid off. We of Krypton have been tied to our planet for many generations.  While we are descended from Daxam, we have different curses. The Daxamites must avoid lead. It contaminates them and causes irreparable damage.  Kryptonians do not suffer the reaction to lead but we cannot leave our home world.”

“You are hearing this because I succeeded in an experiment.  I deleted the gene that restricts us to this world.  Neither you, nor your brother, Kal-El, have it.  You’ll also notice what I replaced it with, the first time a Kayzik tries its mind control.  I would have tried to do more, but with the Kayzik invasion forces at our door, I knew we had little time.”

“Lara and I decided to send you to two different destinations.  Kal-El, I sent directly to Earth.  There is a woman there of the Shantar—our allies against the Kayzik. She has what I would otherwise characterize as an insane belief in the Champion of the Green Flame.  She chose to remain when the Earth was invaded by the Kayzik.  Unfortunately, while her champion did arise, he was quickly killed.  She retains the belief that his sponsor will provide another.  Is she correct?  Who can say?”

“She is a Command Shantar Assassin.  She is undoubtedly the most dangerous creature I’ve ever encountered.  While the Kayzik can quickly end resistance in almost any world, they have not ended hers.  She is wily and impossible to catch.  She is also an extremely skilled warrior.  That is why I sent Kal-El to her. Once recovered from the rocket, she would keep him alive and train him. But, his route to Earth was difficult.  Truthfully, while I would not normally expect him to complete the journey, I do have a few tricks up my sleeve.”

“I’ve sent you to Daxam to give you the chance to grow up.  My friend, Jakar Tennan, will have raised you.  At the appropriate time, he will send you to Earth to link up with the Shantar woman and, hopefully, your brother Kal-El.  If a new champion has arisen by then, you will be able to tell him by the Green Flame of Life that surrounds him.  Be kind, the Shantar woman will have found him first!”  Kira Jor-El heard a chuckle from the speaker.

“If Kal-El has made it, send my greetings.  I’ve provided both of you with copies of the family crest.  Wear it with pride!”

“If Kal-El did not make it, my heart will be all the heavier.  Find the Champion, if he does exist.  Through teamwork, you can do much to free this Galaxy of the scourge of the Kayzik.  Bless you and good-bye.  We will not wait for the Kayzik to catch us alive.”

She heard the voice of the man who raised and loved her.

“Kiragee, I love you more than life itself.  I could not be more proud of you if you were my own child.  But I do owe you an answer.  The Starheart is the pure mystical energy of this universe, untainted by the Kayzik.  It was filtered and provided to the Earth Champion of the Green Flame.  Unfortunately, the means of transmission to the instrument of power induced a fatal weakness to wood.”

“In the prophecy known to our people and the Shantar, the Starheart was limited to one champion, and he has been killed.  His instruments of power disintegrated upon his death.  But apparently, the impossible has happened.  A new champion has arisen on Earth.  If the current champion uses an instrument of power, find out the weakness and guard him.  You have very different capabilities and much to offer each other.”

“The Shantar woman Jor-El spoke of sent the message.  She is still alive and she will train you.  You will look like an Earthling.  Use that to your advantage.”

“Do not come back, Kira. Those of us who were closest to you are no longer alive.  We could not risk that the Kayzik would track the rocket back to us, and through us, to the rest of the Resistance.  But, Kira, the Resistance lives.  When it is time, you may make contact, although I suspect you will never have reason to return.”

Kira Jor-El realized how much had been done for her.  She wept for all of them: Jor-El, Lara, Jakar Tennan, and Kal-El.  I will make you proud of me!

Earth

Alan Scott had a simple response to everything he had been forced to experience over the last day.  He landed by a riverbank, shifted out of his costume, and threw up.  He lost the remaining contents of his stomach and began to cry.  Soon, he found a log to sit on and continued crying.  She found him there, lost in his thoughts.  After a few minutes he spoke to her.

“Two days ago, I was a 65 year old man.  I had lived a good life.  I was wanted by my family and friends.  I had a woman who would have taken me in a heartbeat, if I had just let her.  But, it just wasn’t right.  Then, I woke up here and everything makes even less sense!  How did I wind up in this mess?”

She sat beside him and held him closely.  So much for being an emotionless assassin . . .

“Because you are Alan Wellington Scott, the champion of the Green Flame.  Because you are a good man who cares.  Because of the difference you can make here and now. Because of the five lines I know are written in your heart.”  She put her hand on his shoulder.

“Alan, I am being selfish, I know.  But this universe has gone mad.  The creatures who have taken over most of it treat everyone else as food for their demons.  This is hell, and my people need help to make it more.  You have the power to help us.  Help us to drive away the darkness!”  She stood up and put her hands on his shoulders.

“I’ve lost so much!”  He pleaded.  “My niece, Sandy.  My friend, Jenna.  Doiby and Princess.  I’ll never see them again.”

“Listen to your heart.”  She prompted.  “What does it say?  What ever it tells you, I will honor.  Please tell me.”

He drew in a sharp breath.  I know she’s right.  It will take time to get over.  But I don’t think I can go back.  He stood up and faced her.  A green train lantern appeared.

She smiled.  I can see the clarity of his soul.  He’s going to say it!  I’ve waited so, so long to hear it again!  She stood, entranced as he spoke.

In brightest day,

In blackest night,

No evil shall escape my sight!

Let those who worship evil’s might,

Beware my power, Green Lantern’s Light!

She smiled with quiet satisfaction.

An hour later, Elsewhere

An impossible creature made a decision.  My champion has returned and he understands his nature.  I cannot hold him—he must choose to stay.  It is time.

Earth

Alan and Elise sat together on the fallen tree.

“I must admit that I am…uncomfortable.”  Elise scowled.  “My training as an assassin teaches me to suppress my emotions.  It is a survival trait I must have to do what I do.”

Alan frowned.  “You seem distant at times, but not what I would call unemotional.”

She smiled.  “I know.  That in itself is disturbing.  Although, I will admit you are attractive for an exotic back-world creature.”

He laughed.  “Thank you, I think.  From my point of view, you are the attractive exotic.”

He heard something he had not expected—a genuine chuckle.  “Touché.  Her eyes narrowed. “Alan, we are not alone.”

He both saw and felt the green flame appear, glowing in front of them.  It began to speak. “Alan Scott, three times did I flame Green for you.  First to trade your original form for the form you had in the other world.  I could only reclaim you at the moment of that body’s natural death, not before.  The second to bring life—I brought you here.  The third time to bring the power that you alone can possess.”

He asked with curiosity.  “Original form?”

“I will explain.” The green flame answered.  “You are Alan Wellington Scott.  You were born here 90 years ago in this world’s year 1916.”  Alan and Elise both gasped. “When the arrow killed your body, I shuttled you off into another body—one that had no soul and would have died.  You lived an extraordinary life there, whether you admit it or not.  You made me proud, my champion.  But that life is over, and I need you here.”

Elsie addressed the flame.  “He does look so much like the other.  Is it really him?”

“Yes.”  The fire confirmed.  “This is as you saw him last, although that body now resides in a grave on another world.  That world has already forgotten the decayed state of the corpse.”  It paused.  “Alan Scott, you’ve begun to notice the differences.  You have a maturity you did not have before.  That has allowed me to create a body that can carry my power internally, rather than rely on a tool of power.” 

It continued.  “An instrument of power must have a weakness, in the event that it falls into the wrong hands.  But the necessary weakness allowed this,” the Starheart displayed an image of the Kayzik swarm, “to devastate your world.  Such was certainly not my intent.”

He considered. “Tell me about this body.  Am I free to do what I will?”

The green flame flickered.  “It is yours for the remainder of your life.”  It answered.  “I may never direct you, only guide you.  That is my curse—I will live with it.  Even if you leave this universe you will carry a portion of my power. You must return before the power runs out, but you will always be able to find me, wherever you are.”

They felt the flame brighten with warmth.  “I am pleased at what I have found.  I believed that I would be able to reclaim you at the end of your days.  But prophecies that bind even me stated that you would return only a shell of your former self.  I do not know what has invalidated those prophecies, but I am…grateful.”

It flickered. “There are forces at work here beyond even my power.  I do not claim to understand them.  But your enhanced will-force is reflected in your physical form.  Unless you are killed, your physical form will always regenerate to this state.  It does heal very rapidly, as the Shantar have noticed.”

“But,” the flame emphasized, “your physical form is still very mortal.  You must choose to use the power to protect yourself.”

They watched the flame brighten.  “You are my sole defense against the Kayzik.  If all worlds fall, I will be lost as well.”  The flame paused for a time, as if to gather strength. “You must choose to stay in this universe, Alan Scott. Because of your other life, I no longer can make that decision for you. You must be the one to choose.”

He smiled.  Well, I’ve made my choice.  But I might as well take advantage of the opportunity to seek information.  “I would like to ask several questions.  First, where and when will the Kryptonian fall?  Second, are Elise’s emotions her own?”

They felt a change in the Starheart.  It understood he had already made his decision.  “Given the current flight path, 10 miles due south of Sydney, Australia in 46 hours.  I know your concern and I confirm it.  You will have time if you act quickly.  I cannot predict more than that.  To answer your second question—I have influenced her in the past, but not for many years.  I never will again.”

They heard laughter from the creature.  “I had selected her to be your guide, but I am not responsible for what she feels today.  If you stay here, you must deal with her on her terms.  Neither I, nor the Kayzik have the power to save you from that!”

“And your third question.”  The living fire answered before he could ask.  “Those you love will survive without you.  Jenna’s son has already claimed your dogs.”

Alan smiled and nodded his thanks.

The fire spoke once more.  “It is time. Choose wisely!”

I’ve already made my choice.  He turned to see the fear in the assassin’s eyes.  But he knew what he was and why his choice had to be. 

She closed her eyes and held him close, terrified.  We have no claim on him.  This is not the world he remembers.  He’ll go and I’ll truly be alone!  No more chances! 

Then she heard him speak.  “You already know my choice.  You did not have to ask.  I can make a difference here.  I will not walk away.”

The flame answered warmly.  “Good bye for now, my Champion.”  It vanished.

He stood and watched the last traces of the Starheart’s flame.  “I remember an old quote, but I don’t remember who said it.  Basically, it goes that ‘in order for tyrants to prevail, good men must only do nothing.’  And I have seen what happens when those who could, did nothing.” 

She watched him with affectionate curiosity.  “Well put.”

He frowned.  “But I don’t remember anything of my first life.  And I don’t know why you seem so familiar—as if we have known each other before.”

She felt an unaccustomed chill.  “I wish I knew.  I knew of you, but unfortunately, we of the Shantar were not among your inner circle.”

But her chill did not go away.  Something to unearth another day.  But not today. Finally, she felt the chill slowly depart. 

“But,” she added, “I would imagine your memory will return in time.  And we have time.”

He found no reason to disagree. 

The following morning

He smelled rabbit cooking.  He stirred and looked up.  She smiled down at him and handed him a cup of coffee.  “Good morning, sleepyhead!  There’s a stream over there if you’d like to clean up.”

He took the cup of steaming coffee.  “How long did I sleep?”

“Ten hours.”  She smiled.  “After everything you went through yesterday, I’m surprised you’re not still asleep.  Move it, Alan!  I want to get food in your stomach. Green Flame or no, you’re only mortal.”

He teased.  “And if I’d prefer to just admire you??”

She laughed.  Then, she surprised him.  She easily picked him up and tossed him in the direction of the stream.  She went back to the fire.

He splashed cold water on his face.  Hell of a world.  It’s not a dream.  But, I need information—lots of it.  What’s at Sydney?  How do the Kayzik trap these people? Why did Garja freeze when they approach?  She’s one of Elise’s people.  Damn, this water is cold.  I could use a warm shower. Well, why not?  He undressed and used mystic flame to divert and heat some of the stream’s water.  He enjoyed his shower.  Now for the clothes.  He blasted them clean and repaired the damage from the previous day. All I need to do is brush my teeth.  Done!  This body doesn’t grow a beard.  Interesting… He walked back to their campsite.

“You look a lot better!”  She enthused.  “Here, have some breakfast while I explain a little more.  We only have 30 hours before the Kryptonian lands, and we’re going to have to fight to keep the Kayzik from claiming the rocket. The Kayzik won’t miss an unshielded rocket moving that quickly.”

He concentrated. “If my memories are correct, we have another problem.  Do you have anyone who can phase through matter?  I could do it, but if the rocket attracts attention, I suspect I’m going to need help.”

“My, aren’t you a perceptive Terran!” She complimented.  She turned more serious.  “I can’t begin to tell you everything you’ll need to know.  I will tell you this—there are mutants on this world with varying degrees of power.  They are the special targets of the Kayzik.  Their life forces can be almost as powerful as a Kryptonian or a Daxamite.  The Kayzik would have milked Krypton dry where it stood, if the Kryptonians hadn’t blown up the planet. They are slowly consuming the Daxamites—but only when they need to.”

She continued.  “The Kayzik are a mystic menace.  Many are necromancers and the rest are extremely hard-to-kill warriors.  The necromancers steal life forces and use them to power demons under their control.  A strong life force will power a larger demon for several weeks.  A lesser life force may provide power for up to a week.”  She frowned.  “We can tell when an offensive is about to begin.  They start hunting humans again.  You may have noticed that this world has been almost depopulated.  There are fewer than half a billion souls across the planet.  Any human trapped by a Kayzik necromancer comes under its mind control.  That applies to the Shantar and most other races as well.  The mind control can only be stopped by extreme invulnerability or powerful mystic force.”

He interrupted. “Like the Green Flame of Life?  Is that why Garja seemed to slow her resistance and I did not?”

“Yes,” she acknowledged, “and why you saw my fellow assassins when Katherine did not. You are not a sorcerer, but you are a wielder of mystic power.”  She had a thoughtful smile. “When you were reconstructed, you were built to take on the Kayzik.  The Starheart had learned from your earlier battles.  I suspect your body will remain as long as you have willpower to drive it.” She flashed a smile.  “I will have quite some time to grow accustomed to your companionship!”  Her smug satisfaction shone. 

He drank more of his coffee and finished his meal while she watched him.  She finally spoke again.  “Here’s the deal on metas.  We’ve seen more than we expected on this planet after the take over.  I suspect the Kayzik may have triggered a mutant gene in the remaining population.  Not all metas are mutants, but all mutants are metas.”  She took a breath and continued.

“There are three classes of meta.  The first is the garden variety psychic, with some minor telekinetic ability.  They have expanded life forces, but really don’t defend themselves well.  They are easy pickings for the Kayzik and a favored snack.  The second is the hyper class meta.  A hyper class meta manifests abilities that can stymie the Kayzik—at least for a while.  Some can fly, some can phase through solid objects, some can move quickly and carry large weights.  Some can be extremely powerful, within limits.  We’ve catalogued most of them and keep them protected as we can.”  When it’s time, I promise I’ll tell you what I can’t today.  “Then, there is the rarest class—the galaxy class meta: truly the wolf in the fold.  These are the creatures that even the Kayzik fear.  They possess enough power to do true damage to the Kayzik and the Kayzik can’t control them.  You’ll be able to tell one immediately.  Kayzik attack craft start exploding.”

Her pride in him enflamed her eyes.  “Cute little stunt—and the news will spread.  And the Kayzik don’t know what you are—you were smart enough to jam their communications. That’s why we had to leave.  We knew they would respond by demolishing the site of the battle.  Now, don’t give me that look!  No regrets!”  He saw her feral grin.  “It was worth it!”

“I heard the bombs fall last night.”  He shuddered.  “Was it really worth that?”

“Yes!”  She emphasized.  “Every second of it.  Yes!  You have no idea how much hope that will stir on this world and many others!  Now, what does your fiction tell you about Kryptonians?”

He concentrated on his memories.  “Under anything but a red sun, they’d definitely be galaxy class metas.  Invulnerable, strong enough to move worlds, force blast heat vision, telescopic vision, X-ray vision, hyper-intellect.  They’re vulnerable to strong magic and they have other weaknesses.  By strong magic, I mean that it takes a powerful spell to take one down.  They aren’t as vulnerable as your typical human.  They don’t suffer the Daxamite weakness to lead, but they have a different one—much more rare.  If the Kryptonian is headed here in a Kryptonian craft, we may have to get him out quickly.”

He sighed.  “I suspect his craft originally left Krypton as it was being exploded.  If that’s the case, his ship may have been contaminated as the aftershocks of the blast blew the radioactive remains of Krypton into hyperspace.  And if it’s a large ship, radioactivity from the blast could have caught up with the ship even if it had left the planet several hours earlier.  That means he is going to have problems under any yellow sun until he gets away from that ship.  That’s why I need a phase mutant.”  She’s hiding something from me! Her eyes sparkled as soon as I spoke about the Kryptonian in his craft.  I’m sure I’ll find out in time.

She changed the subject.  “Do you know what the Kree are?” 

He nodded affirmatively.  “The people of Mar-vell.”  He appeared hopeful.  “Did they leave a Captain Mar-vell or a Ms. Mar-vell behind, here?”

She nodded with approval.  “There was a phase mutant who helped the last of them escape. She held the last warrior as he died and he granted her his gift. That’s why we were so nervous yesterday.  Katherine Anna Pryde is Ms. Mar-vell, or Ms. Marvel as we call her.  We didn’t know what you were and you may have been sent as a spy.  If Garja had not felt so strongly, I would have tried to kill you without looking at you.  I have a Xentronium blade, mined from the remains of a world much like Krypton.”  She looked at him with intensity. “I’m glad I did not try.  You were already agitated.  You would have fried the camp site.”

24 Hours from Earth

Kira mopped her brow.  Yellow suns are supposed to strengthen me!  Yet, every time I fly by one, it makes me sick.  I don’t have a choice—I must complete my journey, then I can get the hell away from this craft! 

I hope the Shantar woman can help me.  I will help her to fight the Kayzik. They have killed too much of everything I love! I trust my father and Jor-El!  I must hang on.

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

A red-haired man shook Alan’s hand.   “I am Alexander Luthor, the leader of the Terran North American resistance.” 

Alan steeled his expression to hide his disdain. He makes my skin crawl, but I think we’re allies.  I’ll trust Elise on this one.

Alexander added.  “I’d offer you a cave lamp, but I can tell by that glow you don’t need one.”

Alan nodded.  “No thank you.  Alexander, we’re seeking assistance.  We have a short time line to rescue the Kryptonian.”

Elise cut him off. “Alexander, we know where and when. We’ve got 24 hours.  We’ll have to have Katherine to pull it off.  It will be dangerous for both of them, but think of the possibilities!”

Alexander Luthor considered and then realized the full implications.  “Amazing!  We’ll shove these bastards into their own soul taking spells! Imagine their horror!” He paused.  “They’re waiting for you.  Good Luck.”  He walked toward another group of partisans.

Elise drew him aside.  “Alan, I don’t trust him either, but we need each other.  I’m an alien here.  His people will never fully trust me.  But watch your back, love.  You’re a natural leader and he knows it! You’re also my partner—he’s got to get through me to get to you.  Now, let’s go find Katherine Pryde.”

They found a small room with a handful of people.  “You’re going to do what?”  Angered, Charles Xavier focused completely on Katherine Pryde.  “You’re going to fly to a heavily infested Kayzik nest, retrieve an alien, and escape with your life?  Kitty, I’ve heard of some bizarre ideas, but this one takes the cake.”

“Charles,” Kitty pleaded, “you did not see what Garja saw yesterday. Six craft exploded. Not one, but six and he wasn’t even winded.”

“Kitty,” Charles replied, “I’ll believe it when the Shantar assassin validates it.  I’m sure she’ll willingly just walk into Luthor’s camp.  You know she doesn’t trust him.  She has reason not to.”

Kitty tapped her foot.  “Charles, does the term ‘Galaxy Class meta’ mean anything to you? We’ve found one, now we’re going for a second.”

Charles growled. “Produce the meta! I dare…”

Charles spotted Elise Zoldar and her companion.  A powerful telepath, he focused on Alan Scott.  What he sensed frightened and intrigued him at the same time.

Alan responded. “I’m Alan Scott. You are?”

“Charles Xavier.  I am Katherine’s guide.” She was not wrong. Galaxy class – no question. He is seething with the Starheart’s power, but not corrupted by it.  Add a Kryptonian to the mix and things will get very interesting.  Strong, but not inflated ego: I can see his tie to Elise.  Kitty was right; they do have the power to do this.

“Charles, we have a one time opportunity!” Elise implored.  “We’ll never have this chance again!”

“Elise, if you believe this strongly enough to come here, then I will certainly listen. If both of you believe this so strongly, then I will concede.”  He smiled at Alan.  “Even Charles Xavier knows when he’s been outgunned!”

The assassin chuckled.  “You knew it was a rough job when you took it!”

Charles smiled. “I’ve never seen you smile before.  It looks good on you, my dear.  Now that we’ve ranted and raved, let’s fix this mess.  Come into my study and let’s develop a plan.”

They followed Charles as he walked into a smaller room.  Xavier motioned to three spots in the ceiling above them.  Alan understood.  Three large microphones fell out of the ceiling and were quickly dispatched.

Xavier nodded approval.  “Luthor trusts no one.  Now here’s what I recommend!”

24 hours later, south of Sydney Australia

Kira tried to pilot her craft through the atmosphere.  She felt ever more ill.

I’ve almost made landfall, but the Kayzik are on to me!  I feel so sick!  What could poison a Kryptonian?

Her communications relayed a mechanical voice.  “Surrender your vessel.  You have entered a Kayzik world.  You must pay for your trespass!”

Kira looked up and saw Kayzik fighter craft closing in.  Then she saw two streaks against the Australian night—a dark blue streak heading towards the planet, and a blazing green streak rising above her.

She felt a blast from a Kayzik fighter briefly touch the craft, before being reflected by a green shield.  Then she knew nothing.

Alan Scott was furious.  Damn, Damn, Damn!  Green Kryptonite!  I knew it!  The Kryptonite was dormant at Daxam, but it’s killing him here!  Move it, Kitty!  You’ve got to get him out!  I’ve got a full squadron to distract here.  Well, I’ve got their communications jammed: now, I have to make this look like they got us!

He dove upwards between two craft.  They both fired on him.  But, he was already gone. They weren’t.  Two down, ten to go!

He reflected back a blast from another.  Nine to go!

As he passed through four more craft, they fired on each other. Six to go!  I doubt it will be this easy the next time.

Ms. Marvel moved. She entered Kira’s rocket.  OK,… Stud??  Seems Elise keeps her secrets. Got to get going—the Sentinel has provided the distraction. Now, I’ve got to get you the hell out of here.  That greenish tint can’t be good for you!  She grabbed Kira, phased, and triggered a small explosion outside the craft.  We’re outta here, honey!  She phased towards an underground cave Charles had located.

He saw the flare. I can take a hint! Right on schedule! Thanks Kitty!  He dove towards the Kryptonian craft.  The six remaining craft concentrated their firepower on him.  When they were done, not only was he gone, but they believed they had disintegrated the Kryptonian craft as well.

Underground, three miles west of the crash site

Kira began to recover.  Who is this woman babbling in front of me?  I can’t understand her.  How did I get here?  After a few moments, a costumed man joined her.  He seems surprised to see me.  What was he expecting?  They’re both babbling, now.  Now he’s hitting himself in the head with the palm of his hand and smiling.  What does it mean?

He’s approaching. He’s too silly to be hostile.  More babble?  Still, it’s better than how I felt five minutes ago!

She heard it in the tongue of Daxam.  “Welcome to Earth.  I’m known as the Sentinel.  This is my colleague, Ms. Marvel.  We’ve gotten you away from the Kayzik. You are safe here.”

She queried.  “Is this Earth?  What happened to me?”

“Hold on!”  He felt a tickle.  “Can you still understand me?”

“Yes!”  Kira answered.  “What am I speaking?”

“Hon, you’re speaking English.”  Ms. Marvel was speaking to her.  “Sorry about that—we didn’t consider the language problem.”

“You look familiar.” The Sentinel inquired.  “Are you of the house of ‘El’?” 

Kira answered.  “I can tell you know I’m from Krypton. My parents were Jor-El and Lara.  I was one of two.  I do not know what happened to my brother.  I am Kira Jor-El.”

“Well, welcome to Earth,” the Sentinel’s eyes twinkled with amusement, “Supergirl!”

They both looked at him.  He laughed.

“How long have you known him?”  Kira asked Ms. Marvel.

“Just a couple of days.”  Kitty confided.  “The Shantar Assassin usually doesn’t let him out of her sight.  He has knowledge from another universe.”

Alan chuckled. “Sorry Kira.  First I owe you an apology, and then I’ll explain myself.” The Sentinel sat down in front of her.  Ms. Marvel sat off to his right. “First, the apology.  If I seemed startled when I first saw you, I had assumed you would be a male Kryptonian.  I made an assumption I shouldn’t have, and my friend, the Shantar assassin did not see fit to correct me. She’s probably still laughing at me!”  Ms. Marvel started.  He smiled at her.  “Oh, yes she has quite a sense of humor.  She’s just very subtle.  I did deserve it, and I apologize for my presumption.”

Kira smiled.  Well, at least the first male I’ve met here isn’t a jerk, even if he is taken.

Alan waited for her to finish her thought.  “Most of what I’m telling you is fiction from my last world, but the basics seem to apply.  You’re a Kryptonian.  You survived the end of Krypton—I assume that your rocket burst through the remains.  The Kryptonians probably self-destructed the planet as you were leaving.  Unfortunately, while you were in Hyperspace, the radioactivity from Krypton’s destruction caught up with your rocket.  It changed part of your rocket’s surface to Green Kryptonite.  And Green K is fatal to Kryptonians under any sun but a red one.  Your only protection is a heavy metal, like lead.”

Kira looked puzzled.

He nodded.  “I know—the element that kills Daxamites protects you.  In our fiction, Green K can save a Daxamite from Lead poisoning.  I don’t know if it’s true, here.”

Alan continued. “We’ve covered your escape pretty well.  The last the Kayzik saw was both your rocket and I getting blasted to smithereens.   Remember the location—your rocket is 10 miles straight down.  I diffused the Green K. You’ll be able to get to it.”

He smiled.  “In my world’s fiction, Kal-El was the sole surviving son of Krypton, who was sent to Earth. He became a great hero, called Superman.  His cousin Kara Zor-El arrived later and took on the mantle of Supergirl.  As the surviving member of the house of ‘El’, you certainly have a right to the title.”

She contemplated his words.  “Interesting--Kal-El would have been my brother’s name.  Please let me think that over. This is all just a little too new to me.”  Kira still seemed fatigued, although her skin had lost the last traces of green.

“I know exactly how you feel!” Alan grinned.  “I’m only a couple of days ahead of you.  I look forward to working with you—we’ve got a Galaxy to clean out.  But for now, I’m heading home.  There are people who deserve to know that we succeeded today.  Welcome, my friend.  Ms. Marvel will guide you to us when it’s time!”  He held his hand out to her. She grasped it and shook it.  His eyebrow rose up. She released his hand.

“Whoops!”  He smiled sheepishly.  “I’m probably the only person on the planet who could have survived that handshake.  Guess I’m not going home yet!”

“Sentinel, what’s wrong?”  Kitty showed her concern.

He grimaced.  “Kira, welcome to Earth.  You truly are a Kryptonian.  See that column over there?  Can you say Kayzik?”

Beams of heat vision fried the column. 

“I see your point.” Kitty understood.

Kira felt confusion.  “What happened?”

“You got mad.” Kitty advised.

“Charles, are you with us?”  The Sentinel seemed to be talking to the air.

Now that you’ve dropped your shields, I am.  Is there a problem?

Kitty waved at the presence they felt.  “Charles is a telepath and my mentor.  He’s also my friend.”

“Not a problem,” Alan continued, “just some unintended consequences.  Kira, you are a strong person, both emotionally and physically.  You are also physically the most powerful creature on the planet.  When you shook my hand, I had to use quite a bit of will force to keep you from breaking it.”

“Ouch!”  He shook his hand playfully.  Then he spoke more seriously.  “If you become angry, don’t look at anyone until you’ve learned to control your heat vision.” Then he smiled.  “Do you understand what a galaxy class meta is?”

She replied.  “I’ve heard the term.  I know it applies to a Daxamite or Kryptonian under a yellow sun.  And I do feel strong.  I’d been told a Kryptonian would have the power to move a planet.  If that’s true, and you’re still in one piece, then Sentinel isn’t your only name.”

He smiled as he bowed.  “Alan Scott, also known as the Green Lantern and the Champion of the Green Flame, at your service.”

She smiled with not a little satisfaction.  “Alan, I’m pleased to finally make your acquaintance.  I’ve obviously made it safely.  Now what?”

Alan frowned. “First, I’d like your promise.  My instincts are raging.  If you ever decide to look for your brother’s birthing matrix, please let me know.  I have a sense of something dark, but I can’t interpret the feeling.  That’s not today’s problem, but it puts me on edge.”

Kira answered honestly.  “I can’t promise that.  I will promise it won’t be any time soon.  I have to learn this world first.”

“Fair enough.”  He acknowledged.  “Now, I’ll teach you a neat trick.”  He touched her.  “Catch me if you can!”  He flew through a small gap near the top of the cavern. She smiled and leaped after him through the same gap.  She found herself suspended in mid air.

“Very good.”  Alan approved.  “Feel the air and the forces of gravity flowing around you? Hold onto it—you can choose to resist gravity.  I’ll lower my platform.” She watched the green platform drop and disappear.  She had not moved.

Very good, my dear, very good!  She heard Charles.

“Hey Guys, wait up!”  Ms. Marvel had found her way out of the cavern.

“I flew!  I’m flying! I can do it!”  Kira’s eyes shone bright.

Alan grinned. “Kitty, I’ll give you a ride back.  We’ve got to move.  Kira, when we approach the speed of sound, you’ll feel an odd feedback.  Ignore it as you speed up.  Otherwise, you’ll wind up creating a sonic boom.  Ready?”

“Why do you even have to ask?”  Kira gave him a friendly look.  “You know, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”

“I think you’re right.”  Alan approved.  “I think we’ll make one hell of a team.  Now, it’s time to meet the rest of the team.”

“Let’s do it!”  Kira agreed.

Moments later, invisible streaks of red, blue, and green crossed the Pacific.

Four hours later, a campsite near Roanoke, Virginia

They lay on the ground and watched the campfire’s flames.

“I’m proud of you, Alan.”  Elise lay next to him.  “The two of you really pulled it off.”

“I’m glad we did.” He replied.  “She’s impressive.  She’s certainly a fast learner.  You were right—she does need to stay with the Resistance for a while.  There’s an awful lot to learn about our culture.”

“Just as you still have a few things to learn about mine.”  She smiled smugly.

“I’ve certainly learned about your sense of humor today!”  His look drove her to laugh. “Not that I didn’t deserve it.”

She smiled approval.  “Alan, at least you learn.  Most people don’t.  That’s one of the things that makes you so special.”  Her expression turned devilish. “Of course, I plan to ask Kira to recount the expression on your face!” She smiled sweetly and then surprised him with a quick kiss on the cheek. Then, she settled in next to him.

They lay in silence and watched the flames die out.

End—Chapter One—Terra’s Revenge

-- Story written and copyrighted (C) 2001-2003 by Eldric

-- and may not be reprinted without permission. 

-- Otherverse and Dark Earth, as depicted in the Continuum Worlds,

-- are original creations of Dylan Clearbrook

-- Alterverse and The Inheritors, as depicted in the Continuum Worlds,

-- are the original creations of Eldric

-- The Realm and Shadowverse, as depicted in the Continuum Worlds,

-- are original creations of John P. and Jason G respectively.

-- Some characters in Continuum Worlds stories are original

-- creations of Dylan Clearbrook, Michael Liebhart,

-- Jake H., Jason Froikin, Eldric, Jason G, or Andrew Shields and may not

-- be used without express permission of the respective author

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