
The anniversary of YJ founding is approaching, but Sierra, Guardian Angel of Earth, is forced to test the Young Justice,Justice League, and their Guardian Angels, so they can learn an important lesson. With Young Justice stranded on Earth One and their allies back on Earth 16 can everyone still pass this test? Continuation of my Young Justice storyline.
Rated: Fiction T - English - Spiritual/Adventure - Chapters: 9 - Words: 63,518 - Reviews: 22 - Favs: 5 - Follows: 3 - Updated: 02-01-12 - Published: 12-13-11 - Status: Complete - id: 7633352
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A week later, the members of Young Justice were dressed in civilian wear accompanying their mentors, along with Ms. Waller, on a tour of the Watchtower as reconstruction continued. Plans had already been drawn up along with land granted for the construction of the Metrotower on Earth. The Metrotower was scheduled to be fully operational in about eight months and already liaisons were being interviewed. The League was also working on drafting a charter to present to the UN that would permanently establish what they could and couldn't do in the countries of the world. Rumors were flying about the Founders discussing the possibility of alliances with other teams or working to tutor the next generation. A remarkable amount of progress had begun thanks in part to the dimensionally challenged teenagers.
Young Justice couldn't be happier that the war between Cadmus and the League was over. In fact, Waller mentioned that Cadmus would be disbanding in the next couple months, but before that happened they would use their resources to right the wrongs they had committed. That included figuring out what to do with the Ultramen and the comatose Galatea. That's why Ms. Waller was here and to discuss options for getting Young Justice home with their mentors.
"It's nice to know that the clones will be getting a fresh start in life. After all the lies and torture they've received; Cadmus more then owes them a chance for freedom. It's not going to be easy for them," Athena whispered quietly. Up ahead the Founders were talking with Ms. Waller about the transfer of the prisoners. She could see that the League was a little apprehensive of handing over the prisoners' right back to the government, but it was an act of good faith.
"What kind of freedom can they really have? I've seen the brain scans and my recon of the Ultramen hasn't been very positive. They're blank slates with only enough brain power to function, but no will or desire of their own. They can't even make any choices at all. They're just walking vegetables I'm afraid to say," Shania replied quickly to her sister.
"Walking vegetables that nearly kicked our butts! You weren't here during the attack. They appeared to make independent choices in how to deal with us. Maybe there's more to them then just being a meat puppets for Galatea to use," Nerissa pointed out. She knew as well as the rest of them if the Ultramen were found unable to make independent choices their life support systems would be turned off and they be left to rot. They couldn't allow that to happen.
"I sensed a spark inside them, a birr growing slowly. I don't know if this birr is their own manna granting them life or a soul burning to be free it's just hard to tell. Either way it's not up to us. It's up to Waller to decide what is to be done with them and the "Power Girl". I'm sure that Hamilton will want her back," Taji admonished.
"Yeah, he loved to have his little killer back. He's not much of a father in my notebook," Conner grunted. "I'm not saying I'm sorry I saved his life, but what he did was wrong. He created her only to allow her to be used as a weapon. She nearly died because she was treated as weapon, a tool to be used and discarded. It didn't help that Supergirl antagonized her about being a clone, rejected her as possible family. The only reason she's by her clone's bedside is to make sure that she's not going to cause anymore trouble. I think Kara would have been much happier if she had died."
"Don't be like that Connor, cynicism doesn't suit you. I think that Supergirl just needs a little time to get to know the real Galatea. It's just like how Superman needed time to accept you. I'm sure that it will work out fine for Galatea. You'll see," M'gann assured him as she bit her lip. She was also having doubts about the future for the Cadmus Projects.
"Um, I hate to interrupt this sweetheart moment, but I have a dumb question. Shouldn't we be asking if they've found a way to get us back home yet? We've been here like a month, so while I enjoy the extreme training and talking with a cooler version of me, I miss my family. Heck, I miss going to school and its still summer hopefully back home!" Wally whined, before stuffing more junk food in his mouth.
"I believe we are all feeling homesick. I know that seeing an older version of my prince has made acutely aware of how much I want to spend time with him as young babe. I also miss training with Garth and Tula. This Atlantis is a wonderful place, but it isn't home."
"Yeah why haven't our Guardian Angel used their mojo or whatever it is to locate us and brought us back yet? Even with her limited magic training I bet Zantana could scry for us," Dick hissed angrily. Beneath his shades his eyes were getting stormy.
"There are many mysterious that we don't know the answer to yet. If we're still operating on the theory that we had to learn certain lessons to appease the higher power, then it stands to reason that the higher power hasn't finished quite yet with our friends and family. We have to pray that they accomplish whatever is needed to be done so we may go home. Otherwise we may never leave this world," Lucas said downcast. Everyone looked really sad at hearing those words.
"Okay we're way too depressed even for me. I say we take a note out of my parents stationary so to speak and be crazy! The stupid tour is practically over and I'm sick of the pretend niceties coming out of the League's mouths to placate Waller. Let's just demand to know what's up already. What are they going to do send us to our rooms? We've already proven they can't contain us. Come on I'm itching for some fun," Zairia encouraged earning a heart full laugh from the rest of the group.
Young Justice followed the adults into the Conference Room ignoring the conversation between the Founders and Waller discussions abut laws and time frames for moving the clones. The rest of the mentors were hanging back discussing upcoming shifts once the Watchtower was functional again. No one was really paying attention to the team.
Finally Zairia couldn't take it anymore and let loose an animalistic growl to get everyone's attention. "Finally, do you realize that it's been a week since crazy Luthriac got his just deserts and we're still stuck here? Come on you have some of the smartest not mention craziest people in the entire world in this room. Tell me you have something on getting us back to Earth Sixteen or I swear I'm going full panther so I can scare up the staff."
"Really did anyone ever teach you manners or are you always this brash?" Black Canary questioned the girl, who shrugged her shoulders and tapped her feet impatiently.
"We have not given up hope, but as you are well aware the last month has been quite eventful for the League. We didn't have a lot of time to spend on looking on ways to cross dimensional barriers. We reviewed past incidence of dimensional crossing, such as when GL and the others went to world the Justice Guild or the more recent dealing with the Justice Lords. It appears that we can't duplicate the process involved with both transfers. The power sources were unique to their realities," Red Tornado explained patiently to the teens.
"Both Zantana and I have researched extensively into finding a magical solution. There are hundreds of spells, but finding one that would fit our parameters has become daunting. They either require too much manna or the rituals involved in activating the spells are too risky. We have not given up the search I promise you," Dr. Fate intoned.
"We've had the best scientists looking into your situation as well. So far we have very little data on spatial folds so recreating one is impossible. The probes we sent to your entryway have revealed little in a way back. We'll keep looking into the possibilities," J'onn assured them.
"Cadmus will also look into what we can do. Between our resources and advance tech I'm sure that a way can be found to help you twelve find a way home. In the meantime you're just going to have to be patient a little longer until a solution to this conundrum is discovered."
"I promise you we will get you home no matter how long it takes. Have a little faith in is we've already done the impossible once. We can do it again," Superman told the group.
"Then why don't I feel very comforted by your words? Ugh, what I wouldn't give for a transporter accident into the mirror universe right about now," Terry groused. The eleven year old jerked back in surprise and shock as large black oval shaped hole tinged with gold and blue sparks appeared in the center of the room. "I take it back!"
"What in the world? Everyone get ready for trouble!" Green Lantern warned charging his ring, only for Zantana to immobilize him with a quick spell. "Hold it Lord of the Ring; I don't think we have anything to fear. I don't know how to explain it, but I'm feeling my own energy in this portal."
"Are you being serious? We could be dealing with another alien invasion or something!" Question remarked anxiously. Huntress touched his shoulder giving him a smile. Right now they just needed to have faith for it to be alright. The others followed her lead, lowering their weapons, but keeping at the ready.
A magenta light streaked out of the portal stopping at the one o' clock position. Athena gasped seeing the light solidify into her best friend Sasha's astral form clutching Athena's dance uniform. A ping was heard as Sasha's body caught up with astral form. "Ugh, I don't recommend trying to astral project before teletransporting through a dimensional gateway," Sasha moaned, rubbing her birthmark to get the dizziness to stop. She noticed Athena approaching so she barked a warning. "Athena! Quedarse atrás, estamos aún tenemos doce personas más próximos a través de estabilizar este portal. No tocar nosotros hasta este trabajo está completa!"
"What did she say?" Athena questioned Shania who shrugged and gave a gist translation. She still struggled with comprehending the beautiful language. The kids watched anxiously as more figures started popping out of the portal and taking their chronological positions. Young Justice was giggling as their noisy human Guardian Angels grumbled a bit upon arrival.
"Whoa what a rush! Hey Shania, do you think there is anyway we can convince Zantana and Flamebird to reconfigure a spell to make this a clean travel option? Think of how much air pollution would go down if we use this instead of planes!" Jordana ranted happily, clutching a poster of the planet to her chest.
"Something tells me that if life was meant to be that easy we wouldn't be struggling so much. Oh Lucas, I hope you've been eating well, then again who knows what your parents are like in this dimension yo?" Carla replied, her fingers tracing his carved lantern.
"Knowing Smallville and his Boy Scout ideals I bet he terrorized the teens into eating there three square meals. Hey Connor, I hope you've been keeping those literary thoughts in the front of your mind," Lana called coyly; she waived his writing journal around making Connor blush.
"Whoa Ace heel! Sit! Calm down ah! Terry did you train this dog in normal commands or just attack protocols? Sit!" Madison wailed, struggling to keep the eight month old puppy in place.
"Thank God Zairia we found you! Ugh ow! I was beginning to regret having to tote this lit candle all over the multiverse. Ouch!" Black Canary winced as she held a lit purple candle in her palm. She barely gave her counterpart a glance intent on keeping the hot wax from dripping on her hands.
"Really Black Canary we haven't been traveling all over the multiverse. Our efforts were to help pinpoint the precise location of our charges. Now that we have efforts can be made to reverse the portal polarity to return us to our home," Red Tornado remaindered her hovering in his spot with a beautiful flower in his hands. His counterpart was puzzled, but said nothing about the strange behavior.
"We understand that Mr. Tornado sir, it's just that that while our energies are anchoring the portal here, we still have to wait for Zantana and Flamebird to recharge so we can return with Kaldur and co," Tula reminded the android. She smiled at her friend, showing him a small toy she had brought with her.
"Let's hope those ladies know what they're doing. I have a date tonight with my girlfriend and she's testy if she's kept waiting," Red Arrow warned, smirking slightly at the surprise expression on this world's GA. In his quiver was a photo of the four original partners.
"Boy is everyone in this world super quite or is it just because we've come to play? What do you guys think?" Flash quipped to Green Arrow and Martian Manhunter who shrugged. All three men had small items that tied them to their charge. The twelve human Guardian Angels turned as one final form exited the portal. The flash of it closing hid who it was.
Young Justice couldn't stand any longer. With a cheer they rushed over to their Guardian Angels hugging and laughing with tears of joy on their faces. Conversations were beginning to overlap as the Angels checked them over. Comments such as, "Hawks are bad in this world?" or "No my girlfriend is not going to kill me one day!" were heard. The twelfth mystery guest hovered in the background waiting to make her presences known.
"J'onn are they a threat?" Batman demanded quietly. All around him the Earth one heroes were slowly letting their guard down. No one made a move yet unsure what to do.
"No. I'm getting nothing malicious from them. They are truly who they say they are and it appears that they have a way home, the only remora preventing their immediate departure is that the power source needs a chance to recharge. They are not a threat to us," was J'onn reply.
"Either way I think we need to get over our shock and make that determination for ourselves. Excuse me for interrupting this happy reunion, but we have a few questions. My name is Amanda Waller; Former Head of Cadmus and future director of UN affairs with the League. Are we to believe that you are from this Earth Sixteen this Young Justice was talking about?" Waller demanded. She took note the differences between the adult members of the League. She noted the civilians mixed into the group and the dull feather necklaces that connected them. "Who's hiding in the back there?"
A little girl dressed in gray stepped forward, literally walking through the bodies of YJ Green Arrow and Martian Manhunter causing them to shiver. Nerissa, Athena, and Shania's jaws dropped, at the sight of Secret, floating off the floor. "Greta! But how?"
"Secret! Secret secret Sierra secret!" the little ghost girl giggled. She tapped the end of Waller's gun causing it to grow so cold she dropped it. The little girl danced around happy as she greeted each counterpart and the members of Young Justice babbling happily.
"Um, any clue what she's saying or doing?" Wally/Flash questioned nervously.
"You have nothing to fear from Greta, I mean Secret. She's just preparing for the arrival of her boss, the one who can explain all of what has happened these past four days," Sasha explained.
"Four days? What are you talking about? We've been stuck here in Earth One for almost a month!" Athena proclaimed loudly.
"What were you guys doing playing tiddlywinks? We've been busting our butts in training sessions, trying to prevent a war between the government and the League. Heck, we helped take down a crazy movie monster called Luthriac by nearly giving up our humanity!" Wally wailed only for his uncle to mess with his hair.
"Geez kid, you don't need to be so dramatic. Not only were you inverted to another space, but there was a time differential we had to play around with."
"The important thing is that even with only a spark of power and our determination we found you. Thankfully it was before the deadline was up or we'd never see you again," Tula tried to placate, but only brought more stares. "Maybe it would be best if we let Secret and her Mistress explain what is going on. We're just as curious as you are about what has happened."
"Should we be worried at all?" Diana questioned. No one had an answer for her. The room became silent as the little ghost girl focused her powers. Tiny sparks of celestial energy surged from the Guardian Angels' feathers. Joined by the heroes' own celestial energies they formed a glittering ring around her. Unnatural winds filtered into the Conference Room shaping the rings until a silhouette of a beautiful angel could be seen. As the glittering dust vanish Sierra's shade hovered in the air smiling at the trembling heroes.
"Thank you my young assistant. You have done well with this tough assignment. You have learned a valuable lesson that even if you feel helpless you can still inspire others to do the best they can. As a reward, I grant you the gift of speech," Sierra's musical voice sang. A glittering gold sphere floated off her hand entering the ghost girl's voice box. Secret coughed and gagged for a few seconds blinking back tears before opening her mouth. "Thank you Sierra. Thank you for restoring my voice."
"Blessed be little one. You have more the earned your right to your voice again. How else can you continue to assist me; especially now that it is the time when all is to be revealed?" Sierra sang out loud. Sierra' noticed the expressions of the Earth 1 people were almost as tense as those from Earth Sixteen. "Fear not, though I am an angel sent by the Almighty. I'm not here to punish anyone for whatever transgression you might or might not be responsible for. When time for you soul to be judged I pray you will recall this moment of enlightenment so that you may enter the glory without fear."
"Do honestly expect us to believe that you're an angel sent by a God? We've seen others with similar claims and abilities before," Shayera remarked, clutching her mace. The nth metal slowly started to crackle. "If I recall correctly you need a human avatar to even be on Earth and well I don't see one. How do we know you're who you say you are?" She raised her mace ready to attack when Vixen, using the constricting powers of a boa, shoved her arms down.
"Shayera, I think you really need to chill for a few minutes! I don't know about you, but most of us don't want to risk our immortal souls being burned by an angry angel!"
The musical laughter joined by the peaceful melody coming from Sierra's horn relaxed the group, almost as if the music entered their bodies and grew into a glorious peaceful bloom blocking out the fear and suspicion. "Your devotion to the one you love is admirable child, but unnecessary in this case. Only peace and goodness may enter this veil of love, peace, and life. Not even those who claim they are New or Old Gods can breach this aura without harm to their core for my master the Almighty wills it."
"Are you really saying that there is an all powerful God who created Earth? I just find that hard to believe considering I'm an Atlantian, Diana is an Amazon and over half the people here are aliens with different belief systems. I just find it rather hard to grasp that one being is invisibly controlling the lives of all those who call this planet home. It just seems too incredible," Aquaman challenged her. Sierra looked amused as if she was chuckling at an inside joke.
"So many questions, so many doubts even after all have come to pass and what will be. Have you already forgotten the lessons that were needed? I see I will have to begin at the beginning for this revilement. Young one if you could, my powers are still not strong enough to tell the whole story."
"Of course Mistress Sierra! Gather around one and all for story time!" Secret urged creating an ectoplasmic memory ball for everyone to see. As the groups tried to find a comfortable place to rest Secret started to tell a story. "In order to answer your questions and understand what has just happened in both worlds you need to understand more about beings who claim they are Gods and those who are servants of them. Forget about all that you have heard about those New Gods and Old Gods from across the galaxy and their Source Wall. They have nothing do with this story except inveterate causing a catalytic change, but more on that later. Focus instead on the planet Earth where many different Gods, the ones the Amazons serve or those who protect Atlantis, must live in harmony to the Almighty who simple miracle of speaking souls into life is known by all."
"Is this a theological lesson because I forgot to study," Wally whispered, only to have Zairia glare at him to be quite. The speedster calmed down and watched as the ball expanded until it filled the interior of the room. Everyone watched in awe as time passed and shades of past figures walked, grew, and died around them. They could feel the emotions, the hopes and dreams of so many. At the same time bits of darkness, despair and uncontrollable rage seemed to infect the hearts of the beings who called Earth home not caring what species the individual was. Hidden from normal sight, angels of varying ranks spoke words of encouragement, defending their charges from demons tempting the person away from love and kindness.
"From the very beginning the Almighty, The One and Many, Alpha and Omega, who exists as both male/female, whose name is translated ten thousand ways and spoken about in all faiths in one form of another, has always cared for the children of the Earth. To Him/Her it does not matter if the person is of a hidden race, fallen alien, or even a normal human only that those people understand the gift of life and that their immortal soul is precious. There are those who have suffered unspeakable tragedies, heart aches and pain, witnessed horrors that are so evil they ask why the Almighty, who spoke his servants and the world into existence why does he/she allow this to continue? Take away disease, end violence of types, and enforce an everlasting peace. A perfect world for all time, a utopia."
"It sounds to me a perfect way to control chaos that exists in this world. If you ask me your so called Almighty is doing no one any favors keeping that kind of life from us," Waller remarked.
"Really because its sounds to me that kind of world is horrible. I don't like the idea that I'd be forced into believing in something with no choice. I've seen what happens when you take away someone's free will, their ability to choose for themselves. Instead of removing chaos it creates more. Beings need to freely choose their paths, to grow and learn so they can teach others so we work towards one day earning our final rest. No ones perfect and forcing a fake perfection is wrong," YJ Black Canary argued, hugging her "niece" a bit tighter. Zairia snuggled closer understanding where her Mom's best friend was coming from.
"Besides, sometimes bad things can lead to a change in life that benefits a lot of people further down the line. You never know you just hope that each day you can remind one soul that when all hope seems lost God will pick you up and take you the rest of the way. I know when I was working to kick my drug habit Julia was always there guiding me yet making it clear it was my choice to quit. That helped me a lot when it came to resisting the temptations of human evil. Still I know I have a long way to go," Red Arrow confessed.
"Don't get down on yourself. In the year since our um "breakup" you've grown into a strong capable individual. You're still a bit rough around the edges," YJ Green Arrow started to say before Nerissa added her two sense, "not to mention a complete jerk to anyone who crosses you, but hey we love that about you."
"Ahem, the point I'm trying to make is that you've come into your own and that you can only go up from here. I think that sanctuary town really saved your soul."
"This is a very touching moment I hope you don't mind that I want to get back to the story," JL Green Arrow commented nonchalantly. As much as he loved getting tips about how to handle Speedy this wasn't the time or place.
"No need for impatience Mr. Arrow; in fact in a way Red Arrow has brought this discussion full circle. The Almighty has always had angels to act as guides and protectors, but we can never truly understand humanity for we are not apart of it. The Sanctuary towns had existed for centuries, beacons of hope to battle the evils. Then a new generation was born on Earth. Beings that had overwhelming love for humanity, the drive of an angel and the will to fight. Heroes, powerful or skilled as they maybe they still needed guidance should temptation stray them from their chose path. That's when Human Guardian Angels got more involved and I lost my perspective. To me the increasing dangers were putting heroes at risk for allowing temptations to rule them. Already many had been enchanted by the false temptation of control and I feared the twelve souls I had come to care so much about would be lost. So it was time for the Almighty to act in such a way that no one would forget the lessons they needed to learn in order to grow."
"You keep going on about lessons and not seeing the big picture. I'm having trouble just figuring out the small one or what any of this has to do with our two worlds," Diana mentioned cautiously.
"Ms. Wonder Woman, what Sierra is trying to allude to is one of the greatest temptations that leads humanity, especially heroes and heroines astray. The illusion of control," Secret replied, using her ectoplasmic ball to demonstrate. Images of both Leagues, Cadmus and others taking charge of others fate determining what they could and couldn't do. Some of it was simple stuff such as a parent telling a child to go to bed. Secret had them focus on heroes commanding their young partners in how to act or what they could do. Images of Handlers harshly training Projects played out mixed with memories from the past few years on Earth One. "Do you understand now?"
"I'm beginning to. As much as humanity needs heroes to help better them, we have no right to circumvent the free will of others by forcing them down a path, which may not be the right one for them."
"It is more then that Ms. Diana, as great as having heroes and the government protecting the world, no one can truly control all aspects of life. Not all tragedies can be stopped, people get hurt or die. Old friends become enemies. By struggling to control the entire world you miss a chance to see the world as it is. Both the good and the bad in all its glory and wariness," Sasha chimed in.
"Sasha's right! The League thinks it can monopolize on being the Earth's protectors, but it doesn't have the right to dictate all aspects the business. The team was formed because they knew in their hearts they wanted to help people no matter what. Sure its not always easy balancing two lives, but I know Shania can handle it."
"These children are unique, not just because of their mentors. They have proven time and again that their hearts are pure. Still it frustrates me that you and your counterparts believe just because they're your children that you can dictate their destiny. You never stopped controlling them not even after they woke from their comas. The control has been like an unbreakable noose since you learned about their immortality issues. It's almost as if you forgot they were people not lab subjects," Carla rambled.
"Forgive me if I speak out of turn, but that control was seen here in this world. The Justice Lords was it? They allowed the temptation of fear, control, and anger win. They lost their light and created a world that reflected it. Uniting would have been a good way to avoid this temptation except there was no faith and trust, no love that mattered so the League slowly descended to darkness," Tula remarked.
"When that happened its no wonder the creepy government lady locked up her Jimmy Cricket and started acting as an avenging angel, minus the angel bit. Lab experiments in underground facilities will eventually lead to all out war. Something had to be done before so many souls were permanently damaged. The main problems were even observers, such as Sierra and Secret, were to close and didn't understand that it wasn't the time to act just yet, Weird huh Ace?" Madison boasted scratching the pup's ear. She smiled as Terry wrapped his arms tightly around his dog.
"When is the proper time for celestial forces to intervene?" Superman wanted to know. The others were curious as well seeing as how that seemed to be one of the points trying to be made.
"When the Almighty' timing is perfect of course. As I stated I was showing favoritism towards Young Justice because of their circumstances, yet I had forgotten that each soul affects the next one they meet. I was holding them back despite my good intention. Life is series of lessons that each of us experience. In order to help the Almighty created a set of idoneous events that allowed the catalysts, the Young Justice team, help heal two worlds in such a way that it will affect billions of souls for years to come," Sierra explained to a puzzled group.
"I'm still confused, how does sending the kids here help us or their mentors?" Question voiced. He'd been watching the ball trying to figure out the hidden message without luck.
"Oh baby doll I think I'm stating to see. So did you big shots in your world attempt to solve the problem on your own and failed?" Huntress guessed. "Judging by your reactions I'm right aren't I?"
"Hey we tried everything to get them back! We were already to use the phase oscillator key or orb travel, but both options weren't possible. For one reason or another we couldn't make them work, at least not alone," YJ Flash replied defensively.
"With the imposed time limits alongside with other factors we had little chance of success. Until we stopped trying to force a solution and just prayed for one. As weird as it sounds we, the members of the League, put our faith and trust into a higher power believing that it would work out in the end," YJ Red Tornado explained.
"Blindly trusting faith without relevant data to support it is illogical," JL Red Tornado responded in confusion.
"Illogical yes, but a very human thing to do. The power of the human spirit is stronger then any weapon or spell. I've seen ordinary miracles happen by using the power of faith alone. This reunion is because of that power," Dr. Fate pointed out.
"Indeed, you have no idea how happy we are that it did work," Martian Manhunter added.
Secret smiled giggling as her ball grew bigger showing them Earth Sixteen League actually praying, giving up controlling and trusting two teenagers and depowered civilians to help reunite their family. "This League finally remembered to invite the Almighty into their lives; knowing that whatever happened He/She be there to comfort them. His/Her love inspired two junior heroes to learn to speak up and not be silent when it mattered. While this was happening all you're League and Ms. Waller were learning an important lessons as well."
"What's that suppose to mean? The only reason I didn't lock those kids up when they broke into my facility was because I thought we could use their knowledge to help us win this war!" Waller argued.
"Honesty is the best medicine for helping a damaged soul to heal Ms. Waller. You admitted to Batman your fear of those whose power could destroy the world you loved. That is why for so long you ignored your conscious; your spirit was dying because fear was consuming your soul. Are you familiar with the twenty third psalm Ms. Waller? No, then let me repeat it. "Though I walk through the valley of shadows I fear no evil for my Lord is my shepherd and I shall not fear," Sierra recited, gazing into the stern woman's eye she could feel her walls slowly coming down. "For so long you were afraid until you chose to rise above it trusting in a greater power to keep you safe. That was the real reason you spoke to Young Justice, why you were willing to give peace a chance. Even now as you redeem yourself you are slowly getting rid of that consuming fear."
"The League here was afraid, beyond noia! It hasn't exactly been a pleasant month in their care whether we were training or living our lives," Dick pointed out. "Nothing we did was ever right so how did they learn to let go of control?"
"Don't you see Dick; we were a catalyst for change. Our mere presence was more then enough for them to start questioning the path they were taking," Lucas pointed out to his friend.
"Lucas is correct. Our presences and actions have changed our mentors in ways that we can't see yet. My Prince, I know that even after we're gone, I have inspired him to always reach for his dreams, to work with surface dwellers and not fear them so that our home remains safe," Kaldur replied.
"I know spending time with my living dad has helped me out. I'm not afraid of what I'll become. I don't believe that I have helped him in anyway."
"Taji, you and your friends have healed us even if it is not obvious. All us here had broken souls, parts of us that we were unhappy with, which was the driving force behind our control issues. By standing up to us and being yourselves I can promise you the entire League has changed. We'll never forget again that we can't control the world, but we can really create a unity that will inspire others," Dr. Fate told him. The other members of the League nodded, even Batman acknowledged their catalytic actions.
"Glad to know this wasn't for nothing, but what did you human Guardian Angels have to learn?" Shania wanted to know.
"You could say girl that for awhile we forgot what it really meant to be a human Guardian Angel. I don't know about the others, but I was really depending on my feather's power instead of my own inner strength. I was chosen to be Connor's Guardian Angel because of my own self confidence. After the incident with the Light and not wiping your minds about who we truly were it was shattered. With just a spark of power I had to rediscover the unique bond I share with Connor, a bond formed from my own heart. When I remembered where my real power came from all my angel abilities came back. Not just me everyone and we were able to save you," Lana explained. Her feather necklace along with others started humming as Sierra played a tune on her horn. "Ms. Sierra?"
"I'm so proud for all of you! By learning your lesson I am able to bless you. Welcome to the next stage of being human Guardian Angels. Not only are your powers restored they're increased. You have new responsibilities of course; such as guiding budding human Guardian Angels to be to safety for training and challenging Guardian Demons to protect your charges. This is a great honor and I hope that you are ready for this." Everyone shielded their eyes as the music transformed them into the human GA clothes with larger wings and silver bells attached to their necklaces.
"Whoa, you guys look super cool! I'm digging the new wings, but the bell seems a bit much. Oh well whatever it works for you Uncle Barry!"
"Thanks kid, but I don't think I'll be flying anytime soon. Is the demonstration over? Can we take the kids home yet?"
"Not yet, I believe that Young Justice hasn't reveled what they learned. Only then can this theological growth discussion end and normalcy restored," Batman replied coldly sending shivers down their spines. Madison was secretly agreeing this Batman was scarier then her mom.
"Only the children can answer that question. What have you learned?"
The members of Young Justice looked at one another for several minutes having a closed telepathic conversation. Their marks glowed as they reviewed all that had happened and how it related to the events that had occurred today. Slowly comprehension appeared on their faces. It was too unbelievable, but the truth usually was.
"The lesson was us. The Light and Darkness were formed indirectly by Source Wall and those other Gods. When the came to our world and split themselves, the team was unintentionally drawn into an ancient conflict. One that we finished, but left us trying to pick up the pieces. We still needed to figure out where to go from there," Nerissa started, rubbing her mechanical eyes out of habit when she figured out something vital.
"It wasn't easy; I mean we had just put our souls back together. Then learning about all the changes we would have to deal with, the family pressures and finishing the school year. It was starting to seem like no one understood," Lucas admitted to group.
"The League wanted to fix us, the nice people who worked for Providence tried to help yet every attempt just made us hate ourselves a lot more," Terry commented sadly.
"It wasn't until we came here that we began to see that maybe our curses weren't evil, maybe they were just part of who we are," Shania told them. She gave Shayera a small smile letting her know she was the one who helped her learn that. "By slowly accepting those things changed for the better. What we accomplished both here and on Earth was a miracle not seen before."
"I'll say we evolved ourselves to our maximum power levels and didn't lose our humanity. Instead we used it to save one of our own and call for help from above," Taji exclaimed.
"Yeah, the angels understood what we wanted and used the powers of Light and Dark to rebuild the world. Even improve what would have been destroyed in all out war. Talk about hool," Dick laughed.
"The lesson that we needed to learn was that we needed to accept all parts of us. Civilian and hero, children and partners, friends and lovers all of those make us up. Without both our light and dark sides we are incomplete," Athena admitted.
"By accepting all of who we are we can be free," Wally said.
"Freedom is the power to choose ones own future no matter what," Zairia stated.
"We chose to be Young Justice. We choose to help others no matter if were heroes or civilian. For however long this journey lasts we will do what we believe is right," Kaldur finished up.
"We promise never to forget all who helped shaped us into the individuals we are now and will become. Mentors, angels, family it truly does matter for without their support were nothing," M'gann spoke out loud.
"Yeah, and that's why one day through our own hard work we might be able to wish away this immortality. That I truly believe," Superboy finished up looking at Sierra for a sign that he was right. The warmth and love he felt emanating from her body was all the confirmation he needed. The others felt the same relief and hope through the bond as they shared their hope with all around them.
"I'm so proud that you figured it out! What you've accomplished through your own talent and skills is nothing compared to what happens when you truly work as one. That night even do you were afraid you evolved into something almost beyond human, but kept your humanity using it to call force the celestial forces to aid you. This miracle, which I doubt can be repeated again for several decades, allowed you to use both light and dark to heal the world; including what was would have been lost should war break out. With this same power you can return to mortality and the loving grace of the Almighty. It just means waiting for the right moment for it to happen," Sierra explained to the group. All over the room looks of understanding and love could be felt. She knew for certain that the lessons they had learned wouldn't be lost and shared.
Sierra nodded to Secret who shut down the globe and the room returned to mostly normal. The ghost girl landed next to her Mistress, waiting for permission to act. They were almost ready to go, but there were two things left to take care of. Sierra walked over until she was next to Ms. Waller. The former Cadmus agent looked at her apprehensively knowing that she had a lot to answer for, but hoped she could redeem herself.
"The time for the worlds to separate once more draws close, but first things first. Ms. Waller; I know that you are worried about your immortal soul. I promise that I am not here to judge you. Only the Almighty can decide what do with your immortal soul. It's been damaged by letting fear eat at you and deciding to take control over forces that don't belong to you. One day you will answer for that, but until then they're a ways to heal your soul and earn redemption."
"Yeah, like what? I'm a patriot not a saint. I did what I thought was right in order to protect my fellow man. I understand that morally some of my choices weren't right. I take responsibility for my actions what more do you want from me? I'm here to take responsibility for the clones aren't I?"
"The clones were never yours responsibility; at least not in the way you believe. Your labs may have created them, but their souls were spoken inside of them by the Almighty. He wants you to let them be free, to find their own way in life," Secret started to explain before she was interrupted.
"Are you crazy child? The government spent millions of dollars and countless hours creating, training, and caring for them! The Ultramen don't have any independent brain function therefore they can't have a life! Galatea is in a coma, but when she wakes up whose going to control her? She's a killer and loose cannon! I can't in good conscience let her remain unsupervised!"
"What about what you said about letting them be free? Superman, you promised to give Galatea a chance. I know she's been through a lot and both you and Supergirl have a lot of anger about her existence, but don't take it out on her. She never asked to be created. She needs her family!" Superboy protested.
"Just because the Ultramen are blank doesn't mean they shouldn't have a chance to find some peace. Each clone carries a piece of the original soul inside them and now those souls are crying out for a chance at peace. Please Ms. Waller, you said that you wanted to change what people thought of Cadmus. If Secret and Sierra can help both the Ultramen and Galatea let them," Zairia pleaded.
"Ms. Waller none of us here can make the choice for you. The prisoners belong to you and the government has the right to decide their fate, but I hope that you will actually consider their offer," Superman requested. The League stood by his choice waiting to see what would happen next.
The room was quite for several minutes. No one knew what she was going to decide. Finally Waller gave a nod consenting to letting the two have their way. Secret lit up and clapped her hands. Her eyes glowed as she summoned the souls from all the Ultramen clones from the infirmary where they're bodies dissolved. Their souls crossed over through her body so they could be reincarnated at a later date so that one day they would be at peace.
"You did the right thing Ms. Waller. As for Galatea, I believe that Cadmus can construct a life for her, give her a proper identity so she can chose if she wants to be another face in the crowd or a champion. Superman, I know how angry Kara is, but she's the only one who can truly help her "sister" figure out who she really is. Guide her through the challenges of being part of a family. Do I have your word that you and Supergirl will watch out for Galatea during her journey of self discovery?"
Superboy gave him an encouraging smile reminding him of how much he had grown to love his teenage "son". If he could do that then he could give this girl a chance. "You have my word I promise we'll be there for her."
"Excellent all that remains is for the goodbyes to be said. After all you have families and friends waiting to celebrate back home. It's best not to keep them waiting."
"Oh I hate goodbyes! They always make me weepy!" Wally/Flash cried, and everyone sweat dropped a bit. Then everyone laughed because it was going to be a tearful goodbye.
"I shall miss you greatly Athena. You've given me a gift I never thought I would have, a chance to be a mother," Diana told her giving her a big hug.
"Don't forget what I said Diana. You can create a life for yourself beyond being a champion. You can help girls all over the world by being their ambassador and fighting to help improve their lives. I know a lot of orphan girls would love to have you as a mother," Athena told her gently. Sasha came up behind her snapping a photo with her instant camera. "Thanks Sasha."
"No problema amiga."
"Here, I want you to have this so you always have a reminder of this time."
"Thank you, I will not forget you ever."
Nearby Shania was saying goodbye to Shayera with Jordana hovering nearby. Jordana had really helped make this goodbye easier by telling Shayera how much she loved her outfit and that she had an extra wallet size picture for the Thanigarian. "Thank your for everything you did for me. I won't forget it. I'll make sure my parents aren't evil spies."
"You do that, but I should thank you for helping me feel good about myself again. I don't know if I'll ever have kids, but if I do have a daughter I'll name her after you. Take care of yourself."
"I will Shayera, I will."
Zaria had drawn a big crowd thanking both Justice League Zantana and Black Canary for their help, while her Black Canary was getting encouraging Huntress and Question to go on a real date so they could get married already.
"I never thought I hear you actually advocate for romance, maybe you're not such a stiff."
"But marriage is a government conspiracy to control the populations of the world and create a super army of oof. Sorry. I, we, will miss you Zairia. You've helped both of us in ways that we can't describe."
"Thank you for being our dawning hope."
"Thank you both of you for supporting me and helping me. I love you both and wish you the best," Zairia told them hugging them tightly.
Nerissa was laughing as her two Green Arrows argued about fashion styles, namely the hat vs. the hood. Whistling she brought the attention back to her thanking the JL for his hospitality. He thanked her for inspiring him to set up a new foundation to help troubled teens find a purpose in life so they didn't end up villains. That was cool.
The Martians were having a telepathic goodbye. J'onn was sad to see M'gann go and would miss her greatly. Her kindness and love helped him deal with a lot of grief he hadn't shared. For the first time in awhile he felt maybe he could connect with humans. His counterpart told him to live a full life never having regrets.
The guys weren't exactly on the same level of emotional goodbye, but it was still the same tenderness. There was heartfelt camaraderie from the Flashes, some heartfelt speeches between the Green Lanterns with some colorful words from Vixen and Carla. The Fates and Tornados exchanged sincere goodbyes with words of encouragement for the budding samurai sorcerer. No tears were shed between the Atlantian, only simple respect and best wishes. Lana made sure the goodbyes between the Supers was as loving as possible, grinning with joy when Connor's face lit up after Superman admitted he'd been right all along. Victory at last!
The exchange between the Bat clan was private and no one notice Terry discreetly give Batman a disk before Dick led his brother away. One more goodbye and the portal home opened. With one last wave they were gone and the worlds were separated once more.
It was a joyous reunion back in the cave. Zairia leaped into her girlfriend's arm giving her a big kiss while the rest of the girl's congratulated Zantana on a job well done. She shocked them even more when she announced that she'd accept an offer to be a junior member of the Birds of Prey, which they all thought was fantastic! Both Secret and Sierra said goodbye a family members, hero and civilian met were reunited knowing they be okay. Everyone was happy to be back together and eager to talk about their experience.
For the remainder of the night the Cave was transformed into party central with lots of food, dancing and singing, and games. It had been a wonderful year and as the kids ate their cake they wondered what would the next year be like. No one knew for certain, not even heavenly beings, but it was certain to be the most interesting time of their young lives!
Interested in learning more about Zantana and Flamebird's lives as junior members of the Bird's of Prey? Then read the one shot Day One and see for yourself what its like.
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