DISCLAIMER: With the exception of Ling, none of the characters appearing in this story belong to me. They are owned by DC Comics. This is being written for purely entertainment purposes, not for any type of monetary gain. It contains some violence and references to sexual situations, so if you are not of legal age, please stop reading. I would like to thank the Legion List members and especially Dannell and 'rith, for all their suggestions and support. I also have to express my gratitude to Christian for allowing me to use a character based on one of his from his excellent "Shattered" fic. All of you are the best!

Although this story does not occur in canon, it springs out of events depicted in "The Great Darkness Saga". I've also taken some liberties with established continuity, but I hope you'll forgive me. After all, DC does it all the time.

  Chapter One

Her wings slice the heavy, stale air with a sluggishness that she has never felt before. Her usually sharp eyes are cloudy, unfocused from fatigue. Her limbs ache from the weight of the beautiful young woman she has been carrying in her arms for hours. Still, she will not give in to the aches she feels in her bones and muscles. Not even when she feels the razor-sharp spike rip through the wing protruding from her left shoulder.

"Aaaarrrhhhhhh!"

"Dawnstar, are you hurt?" asks Nura Nal, instinctively tightening her grip around the Amerind woman's neck.

"I would say...unnh...Dream Girl, that my cry of pain would have....unh......told you that!"

Struck silent by the reprimand, and the obviousness of it, Dream Girl watches worriedly as the ground rushes up to meet them. Normally, she would simply use her Legion flight ring to save both of them...if their persuer hadn't already cut it off, taking her finger with it. Although Dawnstar had managed to numb the pain with her medi-kit, Nura could swear she still feels the appendage. So much so, that she takes a moment during the fall to check and make sure it is still missing. It is, and she fights down her grief, momentarily ignoring the wind rushing past her face.

"Dream Girl! Snap out of it! I need you with me!" shouts Dawnstar above the wailing wind. "If we have any chance at all against these things, we need to keep our heads and concentrate on our current situation!"

She starts to reply, to chastise the winged woman for the indifference to her lost beauty, the mutilation of her body. But a look into those steely cold eyes stops her. Although they have never been the best of friends, they are teammates, and, in this case at least, Dawnstar is right. If they do not work together, they will not survive.

Judging by Dawnstar's inability to rectify herself, or to stop their downward plunge, she knows the injury to the wing must be severe. Silently, Nura places her hand over her companion's, covering Dawnstar's flight ring. Touching the cold metal, she adds her own willpower to her teammate's and, slowly, their decent is slowed.

"Thanks for the....help, Dream Girl...... I should be able to.......manage.....now....."

"Yeah, right. Look at you, Dawnstar! You're sweating, shaking, and those things are right on our tail! We've got to find some cover...."

"Those 'things', as you call them, are our teammates!"

"Don't you think I know that!?! But until we figure out what's happened to them, they're the enemy! Now, let's....Look! Down there! A cave! Think you can make it?"

Dawnstar slowly lifts her chin, a calmness coming over her.

"Yes."

"Are you sure? It's still a ways off...."

"I......am.......SURE!" she yells, determinedly. "I am of the Amerind. I will not....unh.....give up! I will not FAIL!!!"

Dream Girl watches as the trees below get closer and closer. Although she does not know which planet this is that she has been imprisoned on, she cannot help but appreciate it's beauty, despite the danger. As the cavern slowly becomes even more visible, a surge of hope flows through the young women. A hope that suddenly dies as a dark demon with dual lightning bolts on it's chest suddenly appears in front of them.

"Gods, no........ Garth, please! Listen to me........" begs Nura. Then, in a flash of inky blackness, Dream Girl and Dawnstar are no more.

** LLL **

Within the headquarters of the Legion of Super-Heroes, Dirk Morgna sleeps soundly. His dreams are soothing, untroubled, thanks largely to the two young women sleeping beside him. In his mind, he relives the night's lovemaking, the pleasure he felt, and the pleasure he returned, as well. He sees himself lying naked on the bed as the two beauties touch and stroke his body....

Beneath the sealed door to Dirk's room, something moves. A dark tendril slithers through the tiniest crack and glides quietly towards the bed....

In his dreams, he is in the team's Rec Room, making love to one on the holo-game table while the other presses her mouth to his, running her fingernails down his bare back....

The black thing slithers up the end of the bed, seeking out and covering Dirk's toes...his leg...his bare torso and chest....

Within Dirk's mind, the women's moans of ecstasy turn to screams of pain as their bodies suddenly begin to rot away beneath him, victims, he somehow knows, of a disease thought to be purged from society long ago....

Finally, the darkness reaches his head, covering it completely.

His dreams have now become nightmares, as his own dream-body begins to wither away. Then, he begins to burn uncontrollably, his very skin igniting, until suddenly, in a flash of fire, the hero called Sun Boy explodes and is no more.

** LLL **

On the distant planet Tarlog Seven, two heroes assist the planetary government in cleaning up after a series of devastating earthquakes. As Wildfire blasts away debris with his negative energy, Mon-El searches the rubble for survivors with his x-ray vision.

"This section looks clear, Wildfire. When you're done over there, you can... Wait a minute..."

"Problem?" Wildfire asks via comlink.

"I don't know. There's something...wrong...here. I'm going to check it out."

"You got it, muscles. Holler if you need me."

Carefully, Mon-El moves through the fallen building, searching for something he only glimpsed and can't identify.

Weird. It was a lot like Shady's shadow powers, but it moved differently, he thinks. Almost as if it were.....alive. My x-ray vision didn't show any signs of it being human, but I've got to be sure. This planet is relatively new to the U.P., and we're not completely sure of all the various life-forms it might have. If this is some kind of being that I've never encoutered before, I don't want to let it be killed!

Suddenly, he feels a dread sink into his bones, and a coldness even more harsh than the void of space overwhelms him. The tiny hairs on the back of his neck stand up, and he turns. As he does, tendrils of deep shadow swirl around him, enveloping his entire body. Taken by surprise, he has no chance to fight as they quickly enter every orafice of his body. Seconds later, Mon-El is gone.

"Hhkkkgh."

Mere yards away, Wildfire continues his work, oblivious to his teammate's plight.

"Mon-El better get done soon so we can finish this. After spending the better part of a day blasting away, I wanna head for home and see if anyone's heard from Dawny! Let the natives finish the rest of...."

A tap on the shoulder causes him to turn around. Wildfire only has a second to look into the vacant eyes of the Daxamite he once knew as a friend before those eyes blaze red and cut him literally in half.

** LLL **

Meanwhile, back in the Legion Headquarters, their current deputy leader, Element Lad, watches the Mission Monitor Board for any status changes.

"C'mon, Dream Girl, where are you?" he whispers to himself. So absorbed is he in his concern for his missing teammate that he fails to notice the two young men enter behind him.

"Jan! Have you heard anything yet? Is she back?" asks Star boy, his concern for his beloved obvious. Element Lad jumps slightly at the sudden outburst.

"Huh?! Oh, no, Thom. Nothing yet. But don't worry; Dawnstar'll find her."

"Jan, you know how much I respect your authority, but do you really think it was wise to send Dawnstar off to look for Dreamy alone? After what we've just been through, who knows what she could run into?"

"I know, Rokk, but I had no choice. Everyone else was tied up helping the U.P. recover from Darkseid's attacks. Besides, for all we know, it could have been some kind of systems malfunction that cut her off, not anything sinister."

"Oh, riiiight. Dreamy calls us from her cruiser after helping her sister on the Sorceror's World, starts to tell us about a premonition she had, and then gets cut off! Nothing strange about that at all, is there, fearless leader!?! Well, Cos and I are back from Takron-Galtos, so there's no reason we can't go help find her! Or are you so jealous of her winning the leader elections that you're going to let her rot somewhere?"

For a moment, a flash of anger appears in the Trommite's eyes. Then, he closes his eyes and takes a deep breath.

"Look, Thom, I know you're upset, but if anything's happened to Nura, Dawnstar can track her better than anyone. She brought a tool kit and medi-pack with her, and I instructed her to call us if it's anyting she can't handle on her own." He stands and places a reassuring hand on his friend's shoulder. "Don't worry; we'll find her. I swear it."

As he watches, Cosmic Boy smiles slightly. Although still concerned for the missing Dream Girl, he is also suddenly very proud of his deputy leader.

Jan did everything I would've done, and he probably handled Thom even better, Rokk muses. He's definitely got a knack with people. Guess that's why he's served three whole terms as deputy leader! It's too bad he....

A momentary glance at his feet, and Cosmic Boy sees it. Puddles of blackness, seeping through the cracks in the floor beneath them.

"Guys, look out! We're under attack!" he yells, already directing his magnetic powers at the thing slithering up his legs, to no avail.

"What is it?" asks Star Boy, trying to affect the darkness with his gravitational abilities. Realizing that his power is having no effect, he wonders how one would increase the mass of a shadow?

"I don't know, Star Boy, but it reminds me of the servants Darkseid sent after us!" observes Element Lad. Remembering those battles, he changes a portion of the oxygen in the room to phosphorus. The darkness immediately shies away from it, and Element Lad smiles.

"That's it! It hates the light! We've got to... Gaaackh!"

Distracted by his momentary victory, he doesn't see the tendril that snakes up behind him, wrapping itself around his throat. Gasping for breath, he unintentionally allows it easy access into his mouth. In seconds, both Cosmic Boy and Star Boy have also succumbed to their attackers. As each of them feels the icy grip of evil close around their minds, they each begin to see their worst fears realized.

For Star Boy, it is the sight of his beloved Dream Girl, lying dead on a remote asteroid in the infinite expanse of space, never to be seen again.

In Cosmic Boy's mind, he sees himself returning to his boyhood home on the planet Braal, being greeted as the returning hero by throngs of admirers. As he bursts into the home, however, he is greeted by the sight of his parents and brother, all dead, killed as he was out saving the universe.

Element Lad is cold. He drifts alone in the void of space, curled up into a ball. Hesitantly, he opens his eyes, but panics at the sight that greets him and shuts them tight again. And as the darkness overtakes him, Jan Arrah remembers what he saw: himself, drifting in the vast nothingness of space, finally and completely alone.

** LLL **

Carefully lowering the huge communications tower into its foundation, Jo Nah breathes a sigh of relief and turns to his friend, watching as he makes the final connections. The two of them, along with Duplicate Boy of the planet Lallor, have spent the entire day repairing damaged communications networks throughout Metropolis. It has been a long, tedious process.

"That does it, Jo. We're done."

"Thank the stars! I was beginning to think we'd never get all these towers finished! It would be so much easier if I could use more than just one of my powers at a time. And if I were using my invulnerability instead of super-strength, I wouldn't be breaking such a sweat!"

Ultra Boy arches his back and stretches the kinks out of his muscles, the sheen of perspiration on his bare chest glistening in the bright afternoon sunlight.

"Well, some of us are just lucky, I guess!" Dev-Em smiles, brushing dust from his black and gold uniform. "Whew! I hadn't realize how bad it was here. But, a bunch of rampaging Daxamites tends to do a lot of damage, I guess. Just be thankful that it's over and Darkseid's finally been beaten."

"Oh, believe me, Dev-Em, I am! That last battle we fought on Daxam was tough...real tough."

As the memories of the torture he and his Legion teammates endured at the hands of Darkseid come flooding back, Ultra Boy becomes silent. In his mind, he relives the horror of being eaten alive by the space-beast that gave him his powers. It is a memory that he had finally managed to come to terms with, years ago. Until, that is, the Dark Lord brought it back to the surface, magnified a thousandfold. Only with the help of Saturn Girl, who was herself dealing with the pain of Darkseid's attacks, was he able to begin the slow process of dealing with it all over again.

"Hey, Ultra Boy, you okay?"

"Huh? Oh, yeah, Dev, I'm fine. C'mon, let's go check on Duplicate Boy. Maybe he could use a hand."

Without waiting for his friend to join him, Ultra Boy flies off, leaving Dev-Em to wonder what happened in that final battle on Daxam.

Well, none of my businees, I guess. I'd better catch up to him and find Duplicate Boy. Heh! What kind of a name is 'Duplicate Boy', anyway??

Suddenly, as his feet leave the ground, his ankle is snared by some dark, evil force.

"Huh??? Wha...?"

Surprised by the sudden attack, he has no opportunity to defend himself. Seconds later, as Mon-El had before him, Dev-Em feels the ice-cold tendrils slipping into his body and mind and is no more.

On the other side of Metropolis, Ultra Boy has joined Duplicate Boy at the comm-net relay station.

"Dev-Em and I are all finished with the towers, pal. You about ready to start things up?"

"Yeah, just help me tighten this restraining bar on this sensor dish...."

As the two youths lend their strength to the task at hand, they fail to see the dark being bearing down on them from behind until it is too late. With a powerful blow, the being slams into them both, sending them flying into a nearby building. Immediately, Duplicate Boy struggles to stand. He glances at Ultra Boy, who is lying unconscious and bleeding amid a pile of rubble. Then, as he watches, a shadowy snake-like shape slithers up through the debris, covering Jo Nah's body.

"What the Hells...???"

He attempts to run to his friend's aid, but finds his legs will not move. Looking down at his own body, he sees the same shadows quickly wrapping themselves around his torso. He claws at them with super-strong hands, ripping his own uniform in the process, yet still they advance up his body. Then, a burst of heat vision shatters them, sending pieces of darkness flying in every direction. However, before he can press his advantage, another tendril wraps itself around his throat from behind, choking him. In seconds, it invades his body and Duplicate Boy is gone.

** LLL **

Not far away, in the headquarters of the Substitute Heroes, Color Kid, Fire Lad and Polar Boy are practicing their combat techniques.

"That's it, Color Kid! Keep up the strobe effect so Fire Lad can't concentrate!" orders Polar Boy.

"Don't worry about it, Brek! There's no way he's getting past me!"

Shutting his eyes to block out the swirling beams of color, Fire Lad smiles at his friend's bravado.

"One thing about blinding somebody, Kid, is it only works if you keep your big....mouth....SHUT!"

A column of flame erupts from Fire Lad's mouth, heading straight for Color Kid, who is too surprised by this sudden tactic to react. Too late, Fire Lad realizes his mistake. As both young heroes stare in horror at the advancing flame, they both say a prayer to their own private deity. Then, just before the fire reaches its unintentional target, a beam of ice appears between Color Kid and the flames, turning them into harmless steam.

"Polar Boy! You saved him!" smiles Fire Lad.

"Yeah, lucky for you! What were you thinking?!? He could have been killed!" admonishes their leader.

"I-I'm sorry, guys. I guess I wasn't thinking...." replies Fire Lad, lowering his head.

"Hey, it's okay," offers Color Kid. " No harm done."

"Maybe not this time. But what about out in the field? What would have happened if...?"

VREEP! VREEP! VREEP! VREEP!

"The intruder alarm! Someone's entered the building! C'mon! We've got to...!"

ZZZRRAKKKK!!!!

Before Polar Boy can complete his sentence, he is struck senseless by a beam of quantum energy.

"Brek!!" cries Fire Lad, racing to his leader's side. However, before he can reach him, his mind erupts in pain, sending him reeling into unconsciousness. As his friend falls to the floor, Color Kid sees two forms enter the training room. Though both look familiar, they are each covered in darkness. The only outstanding feature being a planetary symbol on one of their chests that he has seen many times before.

"S-Saturn Girl? Why? What's going on...?" he asks.

Without a word, the being called Tellus uses its telekinesis power to pick up the startled Substitute and slam him against a far wall. He slumps to the hard floor, unconscious. Seconds later, the former Quantum Queen joins her dark companions. Then, in an eruption of whipping black tendrils, the three Substitute Legionnaires are lost.

** LLL **

In an unbelievably ancient house at the end of a winding street in Old Georgetown, a man stands staring out into the night, his eyes seeing things that no one may guess. Stroking his bearded chin, he turns from the window and addresses the big cat beside him.

"It is time, Merlin. I can wait no longer. The forces of darkness gather even more quickly than I had thought, eliminating my options as a gardner would weed his flower bed. If I am to act, it must be now. Prepared for the horrors that face them or not, it is time for my Night Force to live again."

The leopard growls, and the air gets just a little bit colder.

Chapter Two

Nura Nal tries to open her eyes. Every muscle in her body screams in pain. Her back scrapes against sharp rock, and she can feel dried blood cracking on her bare thighs and arms. Still, her eyes won't open. She pulls on her bonds, trying to gage their strength, and finds them too strong to break. Her fingers graze them, trying to determine what they are made of until she can open her eyes and see for herself. Cold, slick...almost like metal, yet more malleable.

"Ahhhhhh... Nice to see you awake, Sweetcheeks. Welcome back."

Her head turns in the direction of the eerie, inhuman voice. It's him.

"What do you want from us, you bastard? Where's Dawnstar?"

Why won't her eyes open?

"You?! What do I want from you?!? Hahahahahahaha!!"

His laughter freezes the blood in her veins, a foreboding chill slithers up her spine. Still, her eyes remain closed.

"You're beautiful, lady, but you're a fool. What could you possibly offer me? Soon, I'll have the entire planet at my beck and call! Even your Legion friends can't stop me!"

At the mention of her teammates, a feeling of dread causes her to catch her breath. Not a full-blown premonition, more like an...intuition.

"If we're so unimportant, than why chase us and bring us back here?"

"For the same reason I took you from your spaceship. See, I've done my research, 'Dreamy'..."

Anger builds at his sarcastic use of her nickname.

"You were the only one who could've foreseen my plans and tipped the heroes off. That's why I took your flight ring; to make sure you couldn't get to them. Now, with you here, they haven't got a chance. As we speak, my shadowdrones are out doing my bidding, either converting your friends to the darkness, or making sure they don't interfere by using...other...means."

Damn it! Why can't she open her eyes and see?

"And what about me and Dawnstar? Why haven't you 'converted' us, too?"

For a moment, the air is filled with an uncomfortable silence. Then, a small, muffled sound. Giggling???

"Actually, to be honest, you could prove useful to me. I've realized that your power to see the future could come in pretty handy...provided it was on my side, of course. If your Legion buddies do manage, somehow, to find us, you're going to help me defeat them."

"Never!"

"Tsk, tsk, tsk. That's not the answer I was looking for. Believe me, beautiful, you do not want to get on my bad side. Just ask her...."

A sudden flash of light from a portable solar lamp, and her eyes pain her. As they adjust, she realizes that they have been open all along, the deep, impenetrable darkness making it seem as if they were closed! Then, just to the side of the light, she sees a form against the cave's far wall. She squints, trying to make out the face. Dark skinned...long, black hair...feathered wings dripping blood....

"Dawnstar!" she calls. "Are you alright?"

It is then that a black, muscular arm reaches through the light and grabs a handful of the Amerind's hair, forcing her head upwards. Dream Girl sees the swollen, bloody face of her teammate and gasps. Seconds later, the cavern is filled with the sound of her screams.

** LLL **

Meanwhile, on the planet known as the Sorcerors' World, the White Witch desperately searches for two newly-interned apprentices.

"Ling! Christian! Where are you?"

Her voice echoes through the endless halls, rebounding off walls that were ancient when this world was young. Fear for her young charges' well-being begins to claw its way into her heart before she hears the familiar voice calling her.

"My Lady Mysa! Over here!"

Two young men come running, their relief at seeing their instructor obvious on their faces. Yet, as she gets closer, the woman sees something else...deep concern.

"How goes the battle, M'lady?" asks Christian.

"Not well, I'm afraid. The foes we face are many, and very powerful. It is all the teachers and the others can do to keep them from their goal."

"But surely, if they reach the Dreaded One, we are all lost!"

"Very true, young Ling. But there are also other concerns that need to be addressed. That is why I have been looking for you. We have a mission for you."

"For us? But, revered teacher, what could be more important than this??"

"Although keeping these beings from reaching Mordru is of utmost importance, Ling, there are other things to be considered. Should we fail...."

At these words, the young Japanese blanches visibly. Not out of fear, she knows, but out of concern for herself and the others of this world. Christian, for his part, stands silently, though the knitting of his brow and the firm set of his lips shows his determination well. Though only slightly older than his fellow apprentice, Christian has shown an aptitude for the arts well beyond his years. He has persued the knowledge offered to him with a vigor and perseverance rarely seen, even here. It is these qualities which allowed the teachers to make the decision that she must now impart upon the two young men before her.

"...Should we fail, there are other objects of power...talismans...that must be protected. That task, Ling, falls to you."

"Me??? But, mistress, why me? I want to stay here and assist you in defending this place! It is my home, now!"

She smiles at his passion. It will serve him well in the days ahead.

"Ling, though you are an excellent student, and one I am very proud of, we need Christian's abilities here. Yet, someone must seek out these talismans and keep them safe. The objects of magic that Darkseid usurped have been kept here since his downfall, but will be child's play to uncover if Mordru does, indeed, rise again. However, after they are his, these others will surely be the Evil One's next target. You must find a way to stop him from reaching them."

He knows that her words are true, for she has never lied to him. Though his heart is torn with sorrow...and, yes, a good amount of fear...he nods his acceptance.

"Very well." Mysa smiles proudly. "Prepare yourself for your departure, my friend."

KA-THOOM!!!!!

"M'lady! What was that!?!" cries Christian.

"Devils take them! They have breached the walls! Christian, quickly! Join your hands with mine! We must send Ling now, while there is still time!"

Running to his friend's side, Christian pauses only long enough to kiss him on both cheeks. As the young Japanese looks up into his fellow apprentice's eyes, he smiles, trying bravely to hide his tears. A wink and a broad smile is Christian's reply. Then, he and Mysa clasp hands in front of Ling. Mystic energy crackles about him, the boundries of space warping and yielding. Just as the spell reaches its crescendo, Mysa sees the two young men silently mouth words to one another, and she smiles. At Christian's silent reply, Ling feels a warmth flow through him, and he knows that, whatever he faces, he will find the strength to succeed. He stares at Christian's smiling face, then the wall breaks apart behind him and the demons flood the chamber. Ling tries to warn his friend, but there is a sudden flash, and he is gone.

** LLL **

"We are here, Baron, as you requested. Tell us, please, the reason for your summons."

"Jeckie, let me handle this, okay? What's going on, Winters? You know how I feel about you and your 'Night Force'! After the last time, I told you never to involve me in your games again!"

Baron Winters simply smiles. It amuses him that he can provoke such volatile emotions in the usually calm, quiet Karate Kid. Apparently, even these long centuries have not diminished Val Armorr's anger.

"Really, Mr. Armorr, that mission was many years ago, during your time in the twentieth century! Don't you think it past time that you, well, got over it, as they used to say?"

"Got over it?!? You caused the deaths of two innocent people, Baron, people that I called friends! That's something that I don't just 'get over'!"

His hand clenches into a fist, his biceps bulge, and Queen Projectra of Orando fears for her husband. Although at a different time than Val, she has also worked with the Baron. Many times, in fact. And though she does not always find his methods...pleasing...she knows they are necessary. Just as she knows that, beneath his uncaring, unflappable demeanor, Baron Winters commands great power. Gently, she lays her hand upon Val's arm.

"My love, please. Let's hear what the Baron has to say. It could be important."

Looking into her soft, violet eyes, all anger drains from him and he lowers his fist. He knows how much respect she has for their host and, although he does not share it, he decides not to challenge it, either.

"A wise move, Your Majesty."

"Please, Baron, don't make this any more difficult than it has to be. What would you have us do?" she asks curtly.

"There is a darkness afoot, my dear, unlike any you have known. It has lain dormant for centuries, and now it is free. If it is not stopped, and soon, the universe will not survive."

"I hate to be the one to tell you, Winters, but the Legion's already beaten Darkseid! You're a bit too late with your spooky act."

"Your brashness ill becomes one who is usually so serene, Mr. Armorr. I am aware of Darkseid's fate. This new threat, though inadvertantly released by him, is not related to the Dark God. When he awoke, I was content to merely watch, letting the heroes of this universe do battle and, ultimately, win the day. Unfortunately, that option is lost to me, this time. Our enemy has waited, watching the mistakes made by Darkseid, and now he strikes at the very heroes who defeated his dark predecessor, turning them to do his bidding. If we do not act soon, even your Legion will be powerless to stop him."

Both heroes stand silent. Even Val knows that Baron Winters is not one to exaggerate a situation. A chill runs up his spine, and he looks at his wife. A silent agreement passes between them and she steps forward.

"Very well, Baron. We will help you. Your Night Force shall live again."

Chapter Three

The Paranormal Research Center in Mega-California, is a relatively new building, housing one of the leading teams of parascientists in the entire United Planets. Working in conjunction with the Museum of the Mystic Arts, it has made great strides in the study of paranormal activity, or magik, and its effects on the Earth's environment. One of the Center's most intriguing aquisitions is a helmet of gold, recently unearthed in an archeological dig in Salem, Massachusetts. Since its discovery, the helmet has been the focus of much curiosity and experimentation. Unfortunately for Drs. K'Nan and K'll, the experiments have not been very productive.

"What do you think, K'Nan?"

"I do not know, K'll. We have tried everything...seance, Ouija board, even tea leaves!...but we cannot reach the spirit! I am at a loss to think of anything we have not done!" moans the parascientist.

"Then perhaps we should stop for the night, get some rest and start off fresh again in the morning," offers K'll.

"That might be best. After all, it is practically morning already..."

Meanwhile, outside the building, a lone figure wanders through the plaza, deep in thought. Unaffected by the unusually cold night air, his hands shoved deep into the pockets of a bomber-type jacket, Timber Wolf tries to make sense of his life as a Legionnaire.

I dunno... he thinks. Maybe it's time I quit the Legion. My head's so screwed up about this mess with Ayla and Imra... Ah, who am I kiddin'? I've done the 'Lone Wolf' bit before. It was alright back then, but I couldn't handle it now. I've gotten used to having friends, being part of something. I'm not gonna give that life up after all the work I've put into it! Besides, I'm no quitter. No matter what, the Legion's my home. However this situation pans out, I've gotta see it through to the end. Still, it is nice to get away from HQ for a while. I'm glad E-Lad sent me over here to keep an eye on things while Stefanacci gets the Museum back in order.

A rustling above him, somewhere, and his ears prick up, straining to pinpoint the location of a possible attacker. So instinctive is it, that he hardly even notices himself doing it.

"Ah, maybe I should head back. All this thinking's just makin' me jumpy..." he says to himself.

The wind shifts, bringing an odor from above. Immediately, his enhanced sense of smell identifies it. A smell of something old. Old and...dead?

A low growl rumbles in his chest and the hairs on the back of his neck and arms stand. In one fluid motion, Timber Wolf discards his jacket and launches himself into the air. As his Legion flight ring propels him through the early morning air, his feral-like eyes search the area for movement. Something darts between shadows on the Center's roof, all but invisible to anyone without his speed and hyper-senses. A wave of excitement erupts throughout his body, and he smiles with anticipation. In seconds, the hunt will be done.

With a boost from his ring, Timber Wolf executes a perfect midair somersault, intending to slam his feet into his prey's back and knock it to the ground. However, seconds before impact, Brin smells brimstone in the air and his target's body shifts and disappears, leaving only smoke wafting on the breeze. Even thrown off-balance, he instinctively lands and rolls, coming up on his feet and warily eyeing the rooftop.

"What the Hells?!? Where...?"

As he watches, the smoke coalesces into the form of a white-skinned young man with long, dark hair.

"Okay, ugly, what...is...your...PROBLEM?!?" the stranger asks, his fists tightening.

"Who...or what...are you?!" Timber Wolf asks, looking at the pointed ears and sharp fangs of the man in front of him.

"The name's Dagon, but you can call me Nightrider."

** LLL **

Meanwhile, on Talok VIII, home of the Legionnaire called Shadow Lass, she and Phantom Girl are investigating the sudden disappearance of an entire city of people. As they fly over the quiet, empty streets searching for some kind of explanation, Tinya remembers some old stories once told to her by a friend.

"This is really freaky, Tasmia. It's like one of those ghost towns that Superboy used to talk about..."

"Yes, it is. I've never seen anything like it on Talok VIII before. I appreciate Element Lad's reasoning in choosing us to check this out, but I'm afraid my experiences on my homeworld include nothing like this!"

"But what could have caused it? I mean, everyone's just...disappeared!"

As if in answer to Tinya's observation, the shadows below her suddenly rise up, taking human form.

"Ancestors! What in Talok's name are they?!" cries Shadow Lass.

"Offhand, Shady, I think we should worry about that later! These...things...are obviously hostile!"

As dark hands grab at her, Phantom Girl phases through them. However, she is not prepared for what happens as she does. Cold, stabbing pain shoots through her body, causing her to double over and fall to the ground as the shadow-beings close in around her.

"Aaaiieeee!!!"

"Tinya!"

Not far away, Shadow Lass fights her own losing battle against her attackers, barely avoiding their reach. But at the sound of her friend's pain, she pushes them away, racing to Phantom Girl's side. She only makes it a few feet before she is entagled in tendrils of darkness. Tasmia watches in horror as the shadows begin to crawl up Phantom Girl's unconscious body, ignoring the darkness that begins to cover her own.

"Get away from her, you soulless monstrosities!" she screams.

Then, a sudden glow envelopes them all, quickly banishing the shadow-beings with a pureness that Tasmia feels in the very depths of her soul. As she shakes off the remaining chill from the demons' touch, she watches as the glow coalesces into the form of a great, huge bird. Then, a body appears in the center of the light. It is the glowing form of a woman, with long, straight hair and a jewel on her forehead.

"Come with me, Tasmia Mallor. I cannot hold the shadow-demons at bay for long, and there are many of them in this dark place. Already, they begin to reclaim those freed by the light of my soul-self. You must gather your fallen friend and leave this planet with me."

"Who are you? Where did you come from?"

"The place of my birth is irrelevant, and best forgotten. Let us just say that, although it has been too many years since I have walked upon its lands, my happiest years were spent on the planet Earth. As for my name, you may call me Raven."

** LLL **

In a mansion on Earth called Wintersgate, two Legionnaires wait patiently. Outside, the storm rages on, sheets of rain pounding on the windows and dark, ominous clouds giving the night sky an even more foreboding appearance. Karate Kid stares out the window, thrumming his fingers impatiently on the wooden sill and wishing he was in the castle on Orando, his new home. Anywhere but this damned, ancient house. He can feel the evil all around him, in every corner and crevice, waiting for the chance to show itself. He knows, for he has felt it before. And, no matter what his wife might say, he also knows that Baron Winters cannot be trusted.

"Well, Baron? When does this mission of yours start?" he asks, turning away from the cold, drafty window. What he wouldn't give for a warm, climate-controlled room in a Metropolis hotel right now...

"Really, Val, you should calm yourself. Though I am as anxious as you, if not more so, we have no choice but to await the arrival of another player in this scenario before we begin. Believe me, spending this time with you is far from a pleasant experience for me, either."

"Very funny, Winters. If it wasn't for Jeckie's misplaced trust in you, I'd..."

"Please, my heart, you promised to try and control yourself!" says Projectra. For a moment, Karate Kid fumes. Then, a look into her eyes calms him. He turns from her, staring out into the night sky.

"You're right, Jeckie, I'm sorry. There's just something about the Baron that makes me lose my cool."

As the two lovers talk, they both fail to notice the Baron quietly leave the room, followed obediently by his leopard companion, Merlin.

"Val, you've never told me about your involvement with the Baron. Why?"

For a moment, he is silent as painful memories spring unbidden into his mind. Placing his two strong hands on an old oakwood desk, Val takes a deep breath. Then, in a voice barely above a whisper, he speaks.

"It was a long time ago, love, back when I spent time in the twentieth century. There was a...a demon...attempting to take over the souls of children. One of them was the son of a...friend...of mine. His name was Nik, but he was also a hero called Nightblade and a member of a team called the Blood Pack. His son was the result of a drunken encounter, but Nik loved him more than anything. So, when his son became one of the demon's victims, he asked for my help. Soon, we both found our way to this cursed house and the Baron, along with a few others. Eventually, the demon was defeated, but Nik and his son both died in the process. Jeckie, I tried to save them, but I-I couldn't..."

The pain in his voice and sorrow in his eyes is all that she needs to see how much he is hurt by these memories of friends long gone.

"He was just...just a baby... And I couldn't save him..."

Silently, Queen Projectra wraps her arms around her husband and comforts him as best she can, allowing him to sob quietly into her shoulder.

Oh, Val, my heart, why did you keep this from me for so long? she thinks. Obviously, this hurt you deeply, and your friend meant a great deal to you, but why couldn't you share this with me? Is there more to the story that you're not telling me?

Before the queen can give her idea further consideration, they hear the doorbell chime. Seconds later, the Baron returns to the room accompanied by a man dressed in leather and dripping wet from the raging storm.

"Queen Projectra of Orando, Val Armorr, may I present an old...associate...of mine."

The young stranger looks over his dark glasses, seemingly inspecting the two Legionnaires. He glances, almost disapprovingly, at the mansion's owner.

"His name," continues the Baron, "is Faust."

** LLL **

Her throat is parched, her voice almost gone. Through swollen eyes, she sees movement in the barely-lit cavern that has become her prison.

"You're awake? Good."

"Y-You're a f-fool, you know..." she whispers.

"A fool? Moi? I don't think so!" responds the cold, bodiless voice.

"You said...uhhhh...you said you needed...talismans...to add to your power. Dawnstar could have...located them for you."

A white smile appears in the midst of the all-encompassing darkness and then the form of Obsidian steps from the shadows, flanked by two other shadow-beings.

"Hmmmmmm, yes, I thought of that. In fact, that's what I had intended when you two were first captured. But you see, there's been a...developement...that should take care of that little detail nicely. The wing-lady wasn't needed, after all."

Despair clutches at Nura's heart. Even after she saw the beating they had given Dawnstar, the blood splattered on her wings, running in rivulets from her head and mouth, she had hoped that her teammate wasn't truly dead. Now, with her captor's words, that hope quickly fades.

"You're a monster..." she hisses through gritted teeth.

"Heh! Listen, lady, I've been called worse. Anyway, where was I? Oh, yeah, that 'developement' I told you about. See, I realized that one of Darkseid's mistakes was in trying to handle it all by himself. After all, in this century, almost every blasted planet has super-beings on it! So, I started looking for a partner, someone who could help me locate those artifacts, yet wouldn't interfere with my own agenda. I thought of Mordru, but from what I've heard, he's waayyyy too pompous and controlling..." He pauses and turns to one of the shadowdrones at his side. "By the way, how's it going on the Sorcerers' World?"

The words cause Dream Girl to gasp, worry for her sister clutching at her chest.

"Everything goes well, Master," responds the shadowdrone. Nura's heart sinks at the sight of a blazing sun symbol on its chest. "There are small pockets of resistance, but the talismans you requested have been found and are on their way here."

"And Mordru?" asks Obsidian.

"Entombed in the very center of the planet, Master, never to rise again."

"Excellent!" whoops the being once known as Todd Rice. Then, a noise at the side of the cave.

"AHEM!!!"

"Huh? Oh, right! Sorry about that, I just got carried away. Anyway," he continues, "after I ruled out Mordru, I came across a mention of a dimensional realm called Witch-World. After a little investigating, I managed to contact one of the sorcerers of that world who, coincidentally, has spent some time in the twentieth century, too!"

Somewhere in the cavern, invisible drums begin to beat in a steady rhythm, slowly building in intensity.

"Back then, he was only a boy, but he's grown up quite a bit since then! Now, you can call him..."

The drums reach a crescendo: Bum Bum BUM!!

"...Klarion, the Witch-Man!"

In a burst of smoke and brimstone, Klarion appears, his huge were-cat, Teekl, at his side.

"Hi," he says with an evil smile. "Wanna play?"

Chapter Four

A cold evening wind blows across the rooftop of the Paranormal Research Center in Mega-California as two young men watch each other closely, sizing up the other's abilities and intentions. On one side is Dagon, the former member of the Team Titans called Nightrider, while on the other is Brin Londo, the Legionnaire currently known as Timber Wolf.

"Nightrider, huh? Well, pal, why don't you tell me exactly what you're doin' sneakin' around up here on the roof?" asks Timber Wolf.

"Listen, ugly, I don't owe you or anybody else any explanantions. Last I heard, it was a free galaxy! Now stop wasting tongue and let me do what I came here to do!"

"Hey, knock off the attitude, paleface! I'm with the Legion! And we're authorized by the United Planets to ask the tough questions!"

"Frag your United Planets, pal! There's something in this building I need, and there's no way you're stopping me from gettin' it! Now back off before you get yourself cut!"

Brin smiles.

"Yeah? Well, let's just see about that, shall we?"

Within seconds, he has launched his body into the air, heading straight for Dagon, the man known as Nightrider. Once again, however, his adversary turns to smoke at the last second, leaving Timber Wolf to grab at empty air as Dagon reforms behind him. But as soon as Nightrider solidifies, Brin spins, claw-like fingers slicing through leather and flesh as they rake across his enemy's side.

"AARGH!! Damn you, that hurt!"

"Awwww, boo-hoo. Now, you wanna keep goin', or do you want to give up?"

Before Brin's question can be answered, there is a loud boom and the sounds of stun-rifles firing.

"What the Hells...?!?"

"Somebody's attacking the Center!" cries Dagon, instantly turning to smoke and flying towards the sounds of the battle.

"Hey! Get back here!... Ahhhhhhh, frag it!"

With a swift series of bounds and jumps, Timber Wolf follows Nightrider into the building. The sight that greets him is like something from the most horrible of nightmares. Beings of darkness fill the building's large lobby while security guards desperately attempt to hold them at bay with inneffectual stun-rifles. Brin notices Dagon is already in the middle of the battle, using a broken support column to bat the intruders away with ease. Strong leg muscles propel Timber Wolf across the room and seconds later he is standing at Nightrider's side.

"Nice work, pal. Just be careful; these things 'smell' human. Maybe we can change 'em back, somehow."

"You worry about bein' careful, Wolfie. I'm more interested in saving these rented sci-cops!" responds Dagon.

A leap over one advancing shadowdrone becomes a midair back-flip, sending the soles of Timber Wolf's feet into the chest of two advancing attackers.

"Y'know, I'm real curious about something. With powers like those, how come you never tried out for the Legion?" Brin asks.

With a momentary sidewards glance at his companion, Dagon smiles.

"I've already done the team thing. Didn't work out. Besides, I didn't think the Legion included vampires in their membership drives..."

"Huh??? Did you just say 'vampire'??"

Dagon's smile grows wider, purposely exposing his long, white fangs even more. Timber Wolf's jaw drops at the sight. His stunned silence is short-lived, however, as a security guard races to his side, still shooting at the shadows.

"Timber Wolf!" he cries. "There's more of these things headed for the research labs! They were too powerful for us to stop them!"

"Relax, we'll get 'em," replies Brin, shaking himself out of his shock. "Just point the way!"

Seconds later, Timber Wolf is racing down a corridor, Nightrider flying close behind him.

"So, what's with this 'we' stuff?" asks Dagon. "I'm not keen on taking orders..."

"Tough. Until we know what's happening, I'm not taking chances letting you run around loose. Besides, I figure whatever it was you were looking for is probably not in the lobby, right?"

Silence.

"I thought so. Now, let's...Holy Grife!!"

In the laboratory, the two heroes find a young man, clad in robes of white and blue, trying desperately to fight off more shadow-beings. Only these shadow-beings are flying, and one of them in particular is firing bolts of lightning just like...

"Lightning Lad?!??"

** LLL **

At the bottom of a deep sea trench lies a long, ornately decorated container. Within it is kept one of the most powerful mystic talismans known to man. Once, it was hidden at the very heart of Earth's sun, but it was freed from that place during a mystical war in the early twenty-second century. In the time since then, it has passed through numerous hands, used for both good and evil, and caused many lives to be lost. Now, it sits beneath miles of ocean, mostly forgotten and lost to antiquity.

This day, however, there is movement in the waters near the ancient box. The dark figure of a woman with flowing white hair swims purposefully towards it. As she nears the prize she seeks, she takes a crystal from a chain around her neck and thrusts it towards the box. There is a sudden flash of otherworldly light, and then all is calm. Satisfied that its defenses have been rendered harmless, she swims towards it and grasps it with hands made strong from centuries of living in the ocean's depths. Without hesitation, the woman once known as Dolphin swims towards the surface, carrying the Spear of Destiny back to her master.

** LLL **

In the throne room of a castle that was once shining and beautiful, two men converse, their voices cold and dripping with evil. Darkness hangs heavy in the air, and portraits of torture and despair hang where paintings of kings and queens once did. Horrible images of demonic entities adorn the walls where statues of heroes used to stand proudly. The golden throne that was the centerpiece of the room is now covered with inky blackness and upon it sits Todd Rice, Obsidian, one leg casually draped over the side as he studies a cryatalline statue. At his side stands Klarion, the Witch-Man, smiling evilly as he pets his familiar, Teekl the were-cat, who nuzzles his shoulder.

"I must say, I like what we've done with this place. Much better than those hideous colors and gaudy banners! But I still don't know why you chose this planet to be our seat of power, rather than that nice, dark Talok place..."

"Talok VIII was okay for my first powerbase, considering how closely attuned it is to the Shadowlands, Klarion, but if you're looking for genuine castles and royal trappings, you can't beat Orando! When I first returned from my...exile...it was easy to use Talok VIII's own darkness against itself and conquer the planet, despite some minor interference from that Shadow Kid guy..."

He throws the statue against the far wall in barely suppressed anger, shattering it into pieces.

"And now, after adding Orando's people to our army, we have two whole worlds of shadowdrones! Of course, they're not as powerful as the heroes that we've 'converted', but they make up for that in sheer numbers!"

"Speaking of those heroes," Klarion interjects, walking slowly down the three carpeted steps to magically reconstruct the statue, "why haven't we moved on Earth? That planet, out of all of them, holds painful memories for both of us, doesn't it? I would think it would have been your first target..."

"Earth can be...difficult. That's why I've been subtly attacking the various heroes on my old homeworld, starting with the ones who could do me the most harm. One of the reasons for Darkseid's recent failure was that he allowed the Legion of Super-Heroes to remain free to challenge him. I have no intention of doing that."

Klarion hands him the renewed statue. Obsidian inspects it thoughtfully.

"But, I've got to be careful. Even with only the weakest members still at large, the Legion is as poweful in their own way as the JSA used to be. I'd rather wait until we have all the power of the talismans in our grasp before we tip our hand by advancing on Earth. Once that's done, nothing they can do will stop us."

Obsidian rises from the throne and begins to walk towards the huge wooden doors at the far end of the room, taking the small statue with him. Then, he stops and turns back to face his partner.

"Oh, and Klarion...?"

"Yes?"

Once again, the statue shatters against the wall.

"If I break it, it stays broken..." he says before walking out of the room.

Obsidian fails to see the glowering look that Klarion sends his way.

** LLL **

Wintersgate Manor in Old Georgetown, Earth....

"A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Faust," offers Karate Kid, holding out his hand.

"Whatever. But the name is just 'Faust'. No 'Mister'."

Adjusting his dark glasses, and ignoring Val's outstretched hand, Faust turns to Queen Projectra and nods in her direction.

"Princess."

"I am Queen of Orando now, Faust," she replies, holding her chin up royally.

"Really? Hmph! I didn't know. Anyway, nice to see you again, after all this time."

"Would that I could say the same," returns Jeckie, turning away and pulling her cloak tighter about her shoulders. Val notices the coldness in her voice.

"Ahem... Well, then, let us begin. I know this little alliance of ours will prove...difficult...but there is work to be done. For the fate of the world and more, we must put aside our differences with one another. Are you all prepared to do that?" asks Baron Winters.

For a long moment, there is silence. Then, the three young heroes speak.

"You already know my answer, Baron. The fact that I still respond to your summonses, after all that has happened between us, should be proof enough," says Projectra.

"And wherever my wife goes, I go, no matter how distasteful. But, I'm warning you, Baron..."

"Please, Mr. Armorr, spare me your threats. Now is not the time. And you, Faust?"

"Yeah, I'll join your little band, Baron. But my reasons remain my own."

"Fair enough. Now then, you two must get to Legion Headquarters. There are people there that need you. Faust and I must prepare ourselves for our part in this drama."

"Which is?" asks Val.

"Nothing less then summoning the catalyst that will decide the ultimate outcome of your battle with the Darkness. You do not need to know any more."

"Like Hell we don't! I told you, Baron, I'm not letting you pull my strings this time! Now, tell me..."

As Karate Kid advances towards the Baron, the leopard, Merlin, springs between them, growling fiercely.

"I suggest you back off, Kid. I can tell you from experience, that's one mean cat," suggests Faust.

"Come on, Val, let's get to headquarters. Our friends may need us."

His wife's mention of their friends' possible danger stops him from continuing. With great reluctance, Val storms off towards the door. When he is safely out of earshot, Queen Projectra of Orando turns on the two men remaining, fury flashing in her eyes.

"I do not know what it is about this house that affects my husband so, gentlemen, but let me warn you: Allies or not, I will brook no attempts to provoke him, nor allow any harm to come to him. I know how you play your games, Baron, and I tell you now that Val will not be one of your human chess pieces to be sacrificed at your whim. If it is your intention to place him in that position, know that you do so at your own peril!"

With that, she angrily turns and leaves the house, purple cloak flowing behind her.

Outside, Val is waiting. He notices her troubled demeanor.

"There you are, love! I was just about to come back for you. What happened in there?"

"Very possibly, my heart, one of the biggest mistakes of my life. Now, come. We have work to do."

As the two walk to the main gate, Queen Projectra feels the icy grip of fear wrap around her heart and she shivers.

Chapter Five

Once, they were the citizens of Talok VIII, but now they have been transformed into dark, evil minions of the newly-returned Obsidian. Their master has decreed that anyone investigating the recent disturbances on their planet must be converted to his cause or die. And, as they advance on the three newly-arrived women, Shadow Lass wonders which of the two options would be preferable.

"Take my hand, Shadow Lass! You have no choice!" cries Raven.

"No! I won't leave without Tinya!" replies Tasmia fiercely.

"But it is too late, now! Already they have seperated you from your teammate! You will never reach her before the drones overtake you!"

"Then she and I will go to the other realm together! I will not abandon her, Raven!" she returns, attempting to fight her way through the shadowdrones to her fallen friend.

"H-Hey, Shady, can you...lend a hand here?"

Startled, Shadow Lass glances down at the sound of the weak voice and sees Phantom Girl slowly rising up through the ground, her hand outstretched.

"Talok's Name! Tinya!"

Reaching down, she grasps her friend's solidified hand and pulls her up, catching the exhausted woman as she solidifies completely and collapses against her.

"Shady, they're so c-cold...so cold..."

"Relax, my friend. We'll be out of here soon."

Grasping Tinya tightly, Shadow Lass uses her Legion flight ring to fly above the dark beings that threaten to overwhelm them, landing next to the glowing form of Raven.

"Quickly, take my hand. There is no more time," says the former Titan.

Handing Tinya over to Raven, Shadow Lass glances back at the shadowdrones and is shocked to see a huge army of the beings swarming towards them. Seconds before the women are overwhelmed, there is a bright light and as Tasmia Mallor takes a last look at the horror she once called home, the three of them vanish.

** LLL **

In the castle of Queen Projectra on Orando, Obsidian smiles widely as the woman formerly known as Dolphin enters the throne room with a gift. She carries a casket-like container, covered in symbols and trimmed with gold and silver. Behind her, the royal guardsmen, Mon-El and Dev-Em, watch closely.

"Finally, it's here!"

"I told you I could locate the talismans, Obsidian. Did you doubt me?" asks Klarion.

"Well, let's just say that I've been lied to before, Witch-Man. It looks like that pendant you gave her got rid of the mystic defenses, too. Excellent! Bring it here, Dolphin! Hurry!"

Todd Rice, Obsidian, stands and reaches out anxiously to take the container from her. Grabbing it from her, he goes to open the box until Klarion stops him.

"Wait!!" he cries, grabbing Obsidian's arm.

"What?!? Klarion, what is wrong with you?"

"Open that, and we'll both die," the sorceror says gravely.

"But, I thought that pendant got rid of all the defenses?"

"The pendant removed the defenses that were set up against touching the container. There are still enchantments to prevent anyone from opening it."

"Then get rid of them! What are you waiting for?" demands Todd.

Suddenly, a burst of arcane energy envelopes Klarion as beating drums sound throughout the throne room. The Witch-Man rises into the air, hair whipping in front of his face as mystical sparks erupt from his eyes.

"Have a care, Shadowlander! You and I have a bargain, it's true, but I will not be spoken to like some lapdog! I am Klarion..."

The drums reach a crescendo: Bum Bum BUM!

"...the Witch-Man, and I demand respect! I agreed to help you find these talismans and use them to conquer this universe in exchange for your assistance in my bid to conquer Witch-World. Therefore, I have as much a stake in opening this box as you do! But continue to push me, and I will send the Spear of Destiny on a never-ending journey through all the dimensions, never to be seen again!"

In response, Obsidian grows to enormous size, filling the large throne room with darkness. His voice is coldness personified, echoing throughout the chamber.

"I appreciate your position, Klarion, I really do, but let's not get carried away with yourself. You may be a powerful sorcereor, and yes, you do have your uses, but I embody all the power of the Shadowlands! The place where the darkness retreated to when the Maker said 'Let there be light'! Even you can't scare me!"

Tendrils of living shadow come to life and swirl around Klarion, who barely has time to erect a mystic barrier to protect him.

"Once, I was content to thrust the Earth into shadow, wanting the world to feel the despair I felt my entire life," continues Obsidian, "but now that I've discovered the affinity that Talok VIII has with the Shadowlands, I'll have the entire universe cast into the abyss! All I need is the power of those talismans, and nothing will be able to stop me!"

In a burst of power, the entire room is thrust into complete and utter darkness.

Seconds pass, then a snap of Klarion's fingers and a small light flickers in front of him.

"Are you through?" the sorceror asks.

"Yeah, I guess so. You?" replies the darkness.

"Yes, I believe I am."

"Good. Truce?"

"Truce."

"Okay. Now let's get that spear ready..."

** LLL **

In the home of Baron Winters, he and the man known simply as Faust make their preparations.

"We must hurry. Already, the forces of darkness are adding to their power."

"Relax, Baron. You know as well as I do that this type of spell can't be rushed! What makes you so sure this guy's going to help us, anyway? He might just tell you to go to Hell..."

"It would be a refreshing change from some other places I have been. But, to answer your question, Faust, he already has an affinity for this dimension. Once he is aware of the threat, he will aid us."

"But can't you just open one of your freaky doors and bring him here? It'd be a lot easier than this."

"The doors of my house lead to various times in the history of this universe," replies the Baron. "But the one we seek is living in another dimension entirely, which makes it much more difficult. That is why I required your assistance."

"Gee, aren't I lucky? What, Zatanna turned you down?"

"Zatanna, as you well know, is dead."

"Yeah...I know," whispers Faust, bowing his head.

The next few minutes pass in silence, both men lost in their own private thoughts. Then, with the placement of a demon's skull in the middle of a pile of sand, all is ready.

"That should do it. We're ready."

"Are you sure that sand is of the Dreaming?" asks Baron Winters.

"It is, believe me. I brought it back myself. You wouldn't believe how hard it is for a man without a soul to enter the Dreaming. I guess it would've been easier if I actually had any dreams..."

"Hmmm. I'm sure it would have. Well, if all is prepared, let's not waste any more time, shall we?"

"Before we do, I have a question," says Faust. "In the past, you've mostly used relatively 'normal' operatives in your schemes. On the few times you haven't, there were only one or two of us involved, like that time Deadman and I got involved. This time, it seems like you're bringing in hero-types exclusively. Why is that? The 'common man' go out of style?"

"I utilize the resources I must to get the job done, Faust. The current threat, and the levels of power involved, dictate that my operatives be more competent than the 'common man'."

"'Competent', huh? Then what's your reasons for bringing in the Princess and the Pajama Kid? Seriously, Baron, it looks like you're scraping the bottom of the barrel, here..."

"Ahem. Queen Projectra has levels of strength that even you are not aware of, as she so amply demonstrated to us when she left. As for Karate Kid, he may yet surprise us both..."

"Okay, if you say so, Baron. You're the boss. I just hope you know what you're doing..."

Baron Winters smiles at the remark.

Resignedly, Faust takes his place at the appointed spot in a bloody circle painted on the wooden floor. Slowly, carefully, he begins to chant. It is a chant from eons past, when the shaman of the Australian outback called to those who resided in the Dreamtime. Soon, as the Baron watches, the circle begins to glow....

Chapter Six

In the middle of Weisinger Plaza on Earth stands the headquarters of the Legion of Super-Heroes. Usually, its halls are bustling with activity, but today the building is quiet. Quiet as death.

"Brainy! Element Lad! I need help! Phantom Girl's been injured!" cries Shadow Lass as she steps out of the glowing portal created by her companion, Raven. Leaning on her shoulder, shivering uncontrollably, is her teammate, Phantom Girl.

"Computo! Where is Brainiac 5?" she asks. Expecting an immediate response from the ever-vigilant, sentient computer system, Tasmia is unnerved when silence is the only answer she receives.

"Here," offers Raven, "give her to me."

For a moment, Shadow Lass stares suspiciously at the woman.

"Shadow Lass, please. I can help her, but it must be soon. Phasing through the shadowdrones as she did caused a severe shock to her body. If you want Phantom Girl to live, you must trust me."

She takes a moment to think, then hesitantly hands Phantom Girl's limp body to Raven. Immediately, Raven places her two glowing hands on either side of the unconscious girl's head, attempting to draw the pain Tinya is feeling into her own body. Raven's brow knits in concentration as tiny drops of perspiration form on her forehead. Gritting her teeth, she throws her head back, then her mouth opens in a silent scream. Tasmia watches helplessly as her friend's lifeless body begins to tremble uncontrollably.

Ancestors! she thinks, what if I'm wrong about this woman? What if she's doing more harm than good? She saved us, yes, but I know nothing about her! Tinya, please...

Suddenly, Raven screams and both she and Phantom Girl are enveloped by a large bird-shaped light. At that same moment, three dark figures come flying down the corridor, followed by two more on foot. Quickly sidestepping the pair flying towards her, Tasmia uses a judo throw taught to her by Karate Kid to fling one of her attackers into the third, much larger, one. As she does, she realizes that they look very familiar.

"Blok? Jacques? Brainy?!?"

Already, the larger of the three begins to rise, but she has no time for him right now. The other two have reached her. One of them waves its hand, and immediately plants erupt through the floor at her feet, entwining her legs. Soon, her entire body is immobilized. At the same time, electrical wires burst from the walls, the frayed tips sparking as they slowly move through the air towards Shadow Lass as if alive. Watching them advance, along with the now-revived Blok, Tasmia knows her time is short.

"No...Mon-El, my love..."

"Relax, Shady! Mon would kill me if I let you get fried by these things!"

"Tinya!"

In one fluid motion, Phantom Girl phases up through the floor at Tasmia's feet, grabs the wires and redirects them at the advancing Blok, shoving them into his chest. His scream of pain is inhuman. Phantom Girl stops, horrified by the sound.

"B-Blok? Grife, I never meant to..."

"It could not be helped, Phantom Girl," says Raven as her soul-self blinds the surprised Chlorophyll Kid and Life Lass. "He is already lost in the darkness. You must free your teammate so we might leave this place. I sense other servants of evil are already on their way."

"Apparently, headquarters wasn't the best place to get help after all! What in the galaxy happened while we were off-planet??"

"I don't know, Shady," replies Tinya, "but as soon as I free you, we're going to find out!"

Two more figures abruptly appear in a nearby doorway and run towards them. Immediately, the three women turn to face the new arrivals, Phantom Girl searching frantically for a way to release her friend while Raven prepares for battle. Then, one of the new arrivals speaks in a calm, friendly voice.

"Relax, ladies, we're on your side. Here, P.G., let me help you..."

With one swipe of his hand, Karate Kid slices through the vines holding Shadow Lass.

"Talok's name! Val! Projectra!"

"Guys, what is going on around here?" asks Tinya.

"We'll answer all your questions soon, Phantom Girl, at least, the ones we have answers to. We have to get out of here first, though. This building isn't safe for us anymore," replies Projectra, her voice tinged with sorrow as she worriedly glances up and down the hallway.

"Yes, we must. They will be here soon..." says Raven, holding her temples.

"Who are you?" asks Val.

"Her name is Raven. She saved us on Talok VIII when we were attacked by these...things..." offers Shady. "...She's a friend."

"Fine, then she comes with us. This way!" instructs Projectra with just a hint of royal command in her voice. Instinctively, the women begin to follow until Karate Kid stops them.

"Jeckie, wait..."

"Val? What is it, my heart? The demons...!"

He takes her hands in his and looks deeply into her eyes.

"I know, honey, but I've got to do something. I've got to make sure that none of our friends are still here and need our help. There may be some that haven't been...changed..."

"Then we will all come with you."

"No, you've got to get to safety and find a way to stop these things. I'll be fine, trust me. I'll meet you at my old home in Japan. You'll be safe there until I finish."

She begins to protest but, realizing how serious he is, Projectra concedes.

"Very well. But, please, be careful?"

With a smile and a kiss, Karate Kid races down the hall.

** LLL **

On the occupied planet of Orando, former heroes turned shadow demons fly through the air, circling their master's castle protectively. One of them, once called Ornitho of the Wanderers, notices a form materializing above the royal spires. Soundlessly, he signals his fellows and they descend on the intruder in a swarm of darkness. There is a brief, decisive battle and, seconds later, the shadowdrones lie at his feet, defeated.

Inside the castle, in the Imperial Throne Room, Klarion the Witch-Man returns from "visiting" the captured Dream Girl. He is not happy.

"Anything yet?"

"Nothing! She's a strong one..." replies Klarion. "I really don't understand why you don't just convert her and force her to use her powers for you, like you did the others! It would be so much faster..."

"Because her powers are different than her friends' are," states Obsidian. "Theirs are more proactive, while hers are more reactive. I can force them to use their powers in my cause, but I can't force a 'vision' to appear to her. And I need her cooperation in order to interpret what she sees or when she sees it!"

"Then, why not kill her and be done with... Wait! Something's wrong..."

"What is it?" asks Obsidian, rising quickly from his new throne.

"Shhhhhhhh..."

He walks slowly around the room, eyes darting to and fro, listening or, more aptly, feeling for something hidden from normal human senses. Teekl feels it also, her ears pricked up and a low growl rumbling in her throat.

"There!"

Klarion spins and fires a bolt of magic energy into the air. It strikes something invisible, causing a ghostly howl of pain, then hangs in the air, crackling. The Witch-Man lowers the beam into a crystal orb that rests on an iron pedestal. As the energy touches the crystal there is a flash of light, then the energy disappears. Beside her master, Teekl purrs satisfactorily.

"I've waited years to do that..." Klarion smiles.

"Do what? What's going on, Klarion?"

"We had a spy. His name was once Boston Brand, but he was more commonly known as Deadman. Years ago, when I was only a child, he took over Teekl's body and caused me a lot of trouble! Teekl and I never forgot about that. But he won't be a problem anymore. I've imprisoned him in that crystal for the rest of eternity!"

Suddenly, the two wooden doors to the chamber burst open, and a pale being dressed in a long, grey cloak stands beyond them. The darkness that had covered the room like a veil only moments before, retreats from the being that strides menacingly down the carpet that runs down the center of the room. Instantly, the two villains feel the enormous power that radiates from their uninvited guest.

"Release him, Klarion! Now!" orders the intruder.

Immediately, Obsidian's two guardsmen, once known as Mon-El and Ultra Boy, spring into action, flying towards the interloper with super-strong fists ready. Just before impact, the stranger becomes intangible, causing the two former heroes to pass through him and collide, knocking each other to the floor. He continues on his way.

"Not bad, stranger, but I think you'll find me a bit more difficult to handle than those two buffoons!" Obsidian says angrily."And I'll thank you to refrain from giving me orders in my own castle!"

Next to him, Klarion hurriedly whispers.

"Obsidian! Be careful! Do you know who that is?!"

"I am not a stranger, Todd Rice, though I have changed much since you knew me. Actually, we have much in common. We were both mortal men once, who have since gone on to a higher plane. Both former heroes of Earth, changed into what we are now. However, that is where the similarities end! Whereas you now serve the dark forces as Obsidian, I continue to serve the light, as the Spectre!"

"I warned you..." whispers Klarion.

"Quiet, Klarion!" Obsidian hisses. "I see you've changed your look since the 'old days', Casper! I've gotta say, the outfit looks much better than the old one did! But then, I always hated the color green, anyway!"

SHWOOM!!

Swords made of darkness fly through the air towards the Spectre, but they shatter against a hastily erected mystic shield. Before the Ghostly Guardian can press his advantage, however, Klarion enters the fray, pummeling the shield with bolts of magik as Teekl sneaks up behind her master's foe. Tendrils of evil slither out of the surrounding darkness and try to bind the Spectre's arms and legs, attempting to drag him down. Seeing her opening, the were-cat leaps onto his back, clawing at his eyes as she would a human adversary. But the Spectre is far from human.

"Get...OFF!!!"

In a blinding burst of mystical might, the Spectre throws Teekl from him, simultaneously breaking the dark bonds that seek to overwhelm him. The outburst causes a shockwave of energy that slams into Klarion, knocking him to the floor. Whipping his cloak in front of him, the Spectre disappears, only to re-materialize like wisps of smoke next to Obsidian, who stands expectantly next to his throne.

"This ends now, Obsidian! Release Deadman, as well as your hold on the people of the planets you have usurped, or feel my vengeance!"

Obsidian smiles.

"Y'know, you really need to get some new material. Maybe in your next life, huh?"

Suddenly reaching behind his throne, the villain whirls and, laughing hysterically, thrusts the mystically hidden Spear of Destiny into the Spectre's abdomen. The spirit stops, looking down at the weapon protruding from his ghostly body and mentally curses himself. He has been gone from the human world too long. He should have prepared for this, despite the stories of the Spear's long-ago disappearance. When he was human, no one could have surprised him this way, but his formerly keen human senses have eroded after decades of disuse. His last words are meant as much for himself as they are for the evil being smiling before him.

"Damn...you..."

And with that, the Spectre, once the man known as Bruce Wayne, dies.

** LLL **

The main laboratory at the Paranormal Research Center in Mega-California has become a battlezone. Three young men attempt to drive off a wave of shadowdrones, six of which possess super-human abilities. One of those six holds a very special meaning for Timber Wolf.

"Ayla?? Is that you???"

"Look out!" cries Nightrider, shoving Timber Wolf aside as a lightning bolt flies through the air, barely missing them. "What's wrong with you?! You wanna get yourself fried?"

Timber Wolf angrily pushes him away.

"What I want is none of your business, pal! Now, get outta my way!"

Nightrider stares in disbelief as Brin determinedly makes his way back to the dark forms of Lightning Lad and Light Lass hovering in the air. Every instinct Timber Wolf possesses tells him that the beings in front of him are no longer the friend and lover he knew. Yet, his heart will not allow him to leave them in this state.

"Ayla? That is you, isn't it? Listen, honey, I don't know what's happened, but we can fix it. We'll get Brainy to invent a serum or something that'll..."

A wave of her hand, and the tiles on which he stands become weightless, rising quickly to crush him against the ceiling above. For a millisecond, he stands frozen, not wanting to believe that his former lover is trying to kill him. Then, years of training kick in and he leaps off the tiles, somersaulting to land harmlessly on the floor below. He barely has time to take a breath before a barrage of lightning bolts from the former Lightning Lad sends him leaping and dodging across the floor. Then, behind his attacker, a trail of smoke suddenly coalesces into the form of Nightrider, hands forcing the demon's head back, his mouth open wide and dangerously close to his foe's neck. Timber Wolf stops, watching from below.

"Never had shadow-meat before, but I'll try anything once..." he says, baring his fangs.

"NO!!!!"

Brin grabs a nearby chunk of debris and throws it at Nightrider's forehead, hitting its mark with unerring accuracy. It stuns the vampire, forcing him to let go of the shadow-demon. One blow from its ebony covered arm sends Dagon flying to the floor, stunned.

Nearby, the young oriental named simply Ling is tiring. His white and blue robes are tattered from the battle, and the spells he casts become weaker with every minute. He knows he has reached his limits, yet he will not relinquish the golden helmet cradled protectively in his arm. To do so would be to fail his Lady Mysa, and that he will not do. A spell of transmutation changes the legs of the advancing Stone Boy into paper, and he falls under his own weight, crashing to the reinforced poly-steel floor with a thud. Then, he notices two of his attackers, who had barely been held at bay with a mystic shield, turn away from him and rush to the downed Nightrider.

Thank the Maker! he thinks. I do not know who these men are, but I welcome their assistance! My body tires, and my magiks are the poorer for it. Perhaps these strange ones can alter the path of this battle! I sorely hope it is so, or else My Lady's and Christian's sacrifice will have meant nothing!

Then, suddenly, a wave of despair overtakes him as the woman who was once Psyche of the Wanderers enters the fray. Her ability to manipulate the emotions of others causes the young Ling to doubt himself, and his ability to carry out his mission.

How could the Lady Mysa have thought that I was up to such a task? She sacrificed her life, and beloved Christian's as well, to send me on a fool's errand! The demons are too strong, too powerful! I am a humble student of the arts, not even a master! It is hopeless. I should simply turn the Helm of Nabu over to the dark ones and be done with it...

Slowly, eyes closed tightly and one hand holding his temple, the young sorcerer slowly begins to walk towards her, his arm beginning to hold out the prize she and her fellows seek. As she holds out her hand to take the helm, she smiles evilly. Then, a burst of emotion from deep within causes Ling to pause.

No! What am I doing?!? I am a student of Lady Mysa, the White Witch, as well as the last of the Serpent's Tooth clan! I will not dishonor her memory or that of my lost ancestors by failing in my given task! I WILL NOT!!!!

So strong is his determination, that a psychic backlash flows into Psyche's brain, causing her to scream horribly with pain and fall. As she does, Ling falls to his knees, too exhausted to do anything else.

Nearby, Dagon moans as he clears his head. Looking off to his side, he sees a sword, lying beneath the rubble. Immediately, his heart leaps. He does not see the two shadow-beings moving closer, having left the battle with Ling in order to fulfill their master's wish.

"It can't be...!" he whispers. "Soultaker??"

Hesitantly, his hand reaches for the sword. Then, a sudden barrage of razor-sharp quills strike his outstretched arm.

"Aarrgh!! What the...?"

Bands of darkness suddenly enfold him, pinning his arms to his side. As he watches, a head pops out of them near his shoulder. It is a head with twin antennae twitching above it.

"Let go of me, you freaky shadow!"

The thing smiles and tightens the bonds.

"UNNNNHHH!!! Let...go...!" cries Dagon.

Dark tendrils cover him, swallowing his entire body in blackness in seconds. Just before the darkness covers his eyes, he sees the other shadow-being pick up the coveted sword. Then, he is somewhere else.

Nothing. He sees nothing, save darkness. He screams, but no one hears. Slowly, thin trails of red liquid slither downward in front of his eyes, blending together until all he can see now is red. He feels the familiar thick wetness on his chin. His vision blurs, then, and he sees the smiling faces of his former friends. Dick. Miri. Tara. Carrie. Charlie. Even Battalion. They're all here. Then, he watches as their smiles turn to looks of horror. And, as a flood of vermin attack and kill them, vermin that, he somehow knows, he called, the man called Dagon...laughs.

On the floor of the lab, the shadow-being that has enveloped Dagon begins to shake uncontrollably, its coils unravelling. As its companion watches with sword in hand, it throws back its head in a silent scream and releases its captive. Although the shadow-being is a servant of base evil, the soul of this vampire is apparently filled with things just as dark, if not moreso. Slowly, as Dagon begins to stir, the two dark servants melt into the shadows of the room and vanish, taking the sword named Soultaker with them.

On the other side of the room, after spending the last few minutes barely avoiding capture, Timber Wolf has made a decision.

That's not Ayla, he thinks. And it's not Garth, either. They've been turned into something else. And, if I've got any chance of helping them...or gettin' out of here alive!...I've gotta stop thinking of them as my friends.

With a look of utter determination, he begins a series of movements designed to place his two foes in certain positions. A natural tactician and master of trajectories, he leaps between the twins, narrowly avoiding a lightning bolt that strikes Light Lass, instead. As he lands on his feet, he takes only a moment to realize that the thing that was once Garth Ranzz shows absolutely no signs of remorse at inadvertantly striking down his own sister. In a sudden burst of rage at whoever did this to his friends, Brin rips up an entire section of flooring and uses his super-strength to send it crashing into Lightning Lad.

As he watches the former hero fall with a thud, Timber Wolf looks around the lab, expecting another demon to challenge him. Instead, he sees the laboratory in ruins, technicians moaning beneath overturned tables and debris. Already, he can see the group of attackers melt and disappear into the shadows of the room. On the far side of the room, the young oriental man stirs, slowly rising to his feet, the helmet still clutched to his chest. Nearby, the vampire, Nightrider, lies motionless.

  Chapter Seven

On Earth, in the Japanese home of Karate Kid, a group of women wait patiently. They have been waiting hours for their friend to return from his self-imposed mission in Legion Headquarters. One of them is his wife, Queen Projectra of Orando. As if concern for her husband's safety isn't enough, she has just received some very disturbing news from the holo-viewer regarding her home planet.

"No... It can't be... Orando, conquered?!?"

"Easy, Jeckie," offers Phantom Girl, placing comforting hands on her friend's shoulders. "As soon as Val gets here, we'll figure out what's happening."

"And if he doesn't, Phantom Girl? What then? Not only will I have lost my world, but my heart as well..."

Sitting on the matted floor nearby, Tasmia Mallor, Shadow Lass, feels great sympathy for her teammate. Although not the queen of her homeworld as Jeckie is, she is from a long line of planetary champions, sworn to protect it. Although that role is currently filled by her cousin Grev, she still feels the weight of responsibility for her planet's well-being. And, although they have no real confirmation of this, she feels in her soul that Talok VIII has also fallen victim to conquering forces. The reports of an entire city's disappearance, and the evil beings she and Phantom Girl fought when they went to investigate, would definitely seem to support such a theory. But, if that is so, what of her cousin?

"Queen Projectra, please," says the empath, Raven. "I understand your despair, but you must try to control it. I, too, know what it is like to lose your world, your...friends...but if the evil I sense around us is real, we must all pull together or we are lost."

A sudden flash of anger erupts in Projectra's eyes, and she turns on the former Titan.

"And who are you to advise me, Raven? All we know about you is that you appeared on Talok VIII as Tasmia and Tinya were being attacked. True, you helped them then, and again at Legion HQ, but I've known too many traitors in my life to be fooled again by deeds that appear to be helpful. Who are you, and where do you come from?"

Phantom Girl and Shadow Lass stare at both women in silence. Although Projectra's emotional outburst may have been a bit unfair, they have both been a bit wary of Raven's reluctance to talk about herself these past hours. Despite themselves, they anxiously await her answers.

Resignedly, Raven faces her accusor.

"My name, as you already know, is Raven. I was once a member of the Earthbound heroes known as the Titans in the twentieth century. Because of their intense love for me and for each other, and how it affected my empathic nature, I eventually left the team and found myself travelling the stars, searching for some form of true peace. Although I returned to aid my friends from time to time, there came a period when I didn't see them for some years. It was after this time that I returned to Earth and found that they had all perished in battle."

She pauses for a second, wipes something from her cheek, and then pulls her hood closer to her face as she continues.

"With no other ties to the planet, I resumed roaming the stars, attempting to help those that I encountered. It was during my travels that I came upon Talok VIII and sensed the dark evil growing within it. I observed the invaders, who attacked and multiplied with uncanny speed. I had to content myself with helping the people wherever I could, until Phantom Girl and Shadow Lass arrived. By that time, however, I had seen enough to know that it was hopeless to remain there. The evil had grown too powerful. The rest, you already know."

For a moment, the three women are silent, mulling over her story. Then, Phantom Girl speaks.

"Raven, I appreciate all you've done for us, really. But, you said you were part of the Titans in the twentieth century. How could you have lived so long?"

"I can only guess that it has something to do with my heritage, Phantom Girl, although I cannot say for certain."

"And just what is your heritage?" asks Shadow Lass.

Raven pulls her cloak tighter around her. She is well aware of these women's distrust of her. Of the three of them, only Tinya Wazzo seems willing to accept her at her word. The other two are filled with worry, fear and doubt. How would they react upon hearing that her longevity is possibly due to being the daughter of the demon, Trigon?

"I...would rather not say."

"You expect us to trust you, and yet you won't tell us where you're from? You ask a lot, empath..." answers Projectra.

"Jeckie, wait. Raven saved my life. If she'd wanted to harm us, why would she do that?" asks Tinya.

"To lure us into a false sense of trust and security, Phantom Girl. You know as well as I do that we've seen it before. Nemesis Kid, Command King..."

"Getting just a little paranoid, aren't you, love?"

All four women turn at the sound of the voice and see a battered and bruised Karate Kid.

"Val!" cries Projectra, rushing to embrace her husband as he walks through the entrance.

"Unh! Easy, Jeckie, I'm a little sore..."

"What happened, Karate Kid?" asks Tasmia. "Did you find any of our teammates? What about Mon-El?"

"Oh, I found them alright, Shady," he replies, carefully stripping off his ripped tunic. "Unfortunately, there wasn't a damned thing I could do to save them. They'd all been turned already..."

"You mean Jo...?!?"

"Easy, P.G. I didn't see Ultra Boy or Mon-El at Headquarters. For all I know, they might still be working on the damaged communications array. But the others I saw, Brainy, Cos, Shrinking Violet, Element Lad, Colossal Boy, even some of the Subs and Lallorian heroes...all of them have been turned into those shadow things."

"Ancestors! Then, what do we do now?"

"The only thing we can do, Shadow Lass," answers Projectra. "Return to Baron Winters and try to determine our next step."

"Baron Winters?? He's involved in all this?" Tasmia asks, a look of distaste crossing her face.

"Unfortunately, yes. You know him, Shady?"

"Shadow Lass is one of the few legionnaires who has aided Baron Winters in the past, Val, along with myself, Duo Damsel and the original Invisible Kid," interrupts Projectra quietly.

"What??? How do you know about this, Projectra?" asks Tasmia.

"I have assisted him in the past, also," she says curtly.

A look of surprise crosses Tasmia's face.

"Wait a minute, who is this Baron and what are you talking about?" asks Phantom Girl.

"The Baron," answers Val as he rubs his shoulder and pours himself some Kono juice, "is a manipulative bastard who cares nothing for the people that he places in jeopardy during his 'missions'..."

"Val, that's not really fair..."

"Actually, Projectra, it sounds reasonably accurate to me..." interrupts Shadow Lass.

"Please, all of you. It is difficult for me to deal with so much hostility..." says Raven.

"She's right," interrupts Tinya. "This is not the time to fight amongst ourselves. I don't know what the deal is with this Baron, but if he's involved, I'd like to know more about him. Jeckie, since you seem to know the most about him, why don't you fill me in?"

"Yes, I think Tinya's right. Besides, it seems you could enlighten even those of us who already knew him..." offers Shadow Lass, a bit snidely. Projectra, to her credit, ignores the barb.

"Years ago, exactly how many even I do not know, Baron Winters formed a group of individuals to battle the dark forces that roamed the Earth, forces unchallenged by conventional mystics. He called them his Night Force. In the beginning, the people who formed the Night Force were ordinary humans, although some possessed various 'gifts'. However, as the human race grew and began to confront the evils of other planets, the Baron was sometimes forced to rely upon superhuman agents to assist him. Eventually, he came into contact with some of my ancestors, the rulers of Orando, and helped them rid our planet of an evil entity that preyed upon our elderly. In gratitude, the rulers of the time, King Dresov and Queen Visa, entered into an agreement with him. This pact would forever leave one member of the royal family of the planet at his disposal, should he ever require it. Since then, the ruling family has been honor-bound to assist him, as I am."

She leans weakly on a bamboo table, and closes her eyes, seemingly reliving some kind of horrible experience in her mind.

"May the spirits save my soul..."

An uncomfortable silence falls upon the room. Shadow Lass and Karate Kid, in particular, feel a pang of guilt at their questioning of Projectra's involvement with the Baron. Phantom Girl is the first to speak.

"What about the other Legionnaires you mentioned, Jeckie? I find it hard to believe that all of you went on these 'missions' for the Baron without any of us knowing about it."

"That was Baron Winter's idea, Tinya," answers Tasmia. "He felt that if the Legion proper found out, they would feel obligated to interfere, and such a large force would jeopardize the mission. He said the dark things we fought must be caught off-guard, or..."

"...Or they would retreat back into the darkness and move on before they could be banished. Yes, it was the same reason he gave all of us, Shadow Lass. As I recall, however, Lyle, in particular, bristled at keeping the rest of the team, er, 'in the dark'..." smiles Projectra.

The unintentional joke seems to break the tension, as all gathered allow themselves to laugh. Even Raven, who begins to revel in the feelings of love and companionship that she has gone without experiencing for so long. Then, Projectra speaks again.

"Val, I know how you feel about the Baron, but we must return to Wintersgate so he can tell us the locations of the talismans that we need to find. With them, we can put an end to this madness."

"Actually, love," he smiles, "we may not need the esteemed Baron, after all. While I was inside HQ, I checked the computers for probable mystic artifacts that might be targets. I managed to print out a list of them and their locations just before Cos tried to magnetize my butt!"

Pulling a disk from his belt, he inserts it into his own computer terminal, and soon they are looking at a list of their unseen enemy's possible targets as Val reads them off.

"The Helm of Nabu, Soultaker...whatever that is, the Spear of Destiny, Symbol of the Seven, Wonder Woman's Amazonian lasso, and the Tarot of Xanadu. Six, altogether."

"But, the Spear of Destiny was lost centuries ago in a great battle. It has not been seen since," observes Raven. "Where would we even begin to look?"

"Yeah, the readout lists it as simply 'missing', too. But don't forget, Raven, these are only possible targets. It doesn't mean that all of them are on our enemy's list..."

"But, has a computer programmed by Brainiac Five ever led us astray, Val?" asks Shady. The three Legionnaires present all look at her questioningly. "Um, let me rephrase that..."

"Seriously, guys, why don't we just try for the easier ones first, then track down the more difficult ones?" asks Phantom Girl. "I mean, we know that Wonder Woman's lasso is enshrined on Paradise Island, right? And, according to this list, the Symbol of the Seven was last seen on the planet Lythyl..."

"I think Tinya's right. Let's all grab some sleep and start off with the locations we know..."

"No! We have to go now!" demands Tasmia. "Mon-El and the others could be in danger! What if they need us?"

Karate Kid grabs her firmly by the shoulders. "Shady, we've all just been through Hell today. We're drained, physically and emotionally. If they do need us, we won't be much good to them like this. Let's just grab a few hours of rest, and then we'll get started, okay?"

Tinya steps up to her friend and places a calming hand gently on her shoulder.

"Shady, I'm just as worried about Jo as you are about Mon-El, maybe more. But Val's right; we need to be at our peak to fight this thing, whatever it is. Just a few hours, then we'll get started, okay?"

Tasmia lowers her head slowly. In her mind, she knows her friends are right, but in her heart...in her heart, she feels a longing and a fear that she has never known before. Still, she quietly gives her answer.

"A-alright."

Silently, Karate Kid turns from her, but not before gently squeezing her hand in support. Then, he begins the task of readying the guest rooms, followed closely by Raven. Turning to follow him, Projectra glances over at Tasmia and Tinya, who are huddled together, comforting one another. Her face softens, and she walks quietly over to them where she embraces both women and leads them down the hallway to their rooms.

  Chapter Eight

"C'mon, man, pull yourself together! Don't you die on me, pal!"

The concern in his own voice surprises Timber Wolf. He has only just met this man, Dagon, yet he fears for him. Not long ago, they were fighting each other on the laboratory's rooftop. Now, having seen the vampire's heroism and selflessness in battle, Brin regrets the misunderstanding and desperately prays he is not too late. Watching the sudden seizures that wrack Dagon's body, he holds out little hope for his newfound friend's recovery. He can find no pulse or heartbeat, yet from all that he has heard, that would not be unusual for a vampire. Brin can see the pale skin on Dagon's chest rise and fall, but he has no idea how much longer that will continue. Whatever medical training he has picked up from Brainiac 5 or Sun Boy is useless, and he begins to feel frustrated. Although he would feel concern for anyone in this condition, these feelings are something new, something he has not felt even when watching his teammates in the Legion fall in battle. It is a feeling of kinship, of sameness. These are two men that have to confront their dark side on a daily basis and have come to know it more intimately than most. Even among all his friends in the Legion, Brin has never found someone who could understand this part of him.

"He is a being of evil! Why do you assist him?" asks the young Oriental voice behind him.

Timber Wolf spins on the young sorcerer, eyes flashing angrily and showing more of his fangs than he intended. "Look, kid, you ever hear the old line 'looks can be deceiving'? No matter what he looks like, this guy just saved your scrawny butt! Now, go make yourself useful and find me a doctor!"

"Won't be...unnnh...necessary, half-pint. I'll be...hrrrrn...fine..."

Holding his head and leaning against a nearby marble column, Dagon slowly begins to rise, standing unsteadily on his feet. Ling instinctively moves back a couple of steps.

"Hey, easy, man! Here, let me help..."

Brin's outstretched hand is slapped away.

"I don't need your help, Legionnaire!" Dagon says angrily. "You were the one who threw the stone that zonked me, remember? And now you wanna get all sugary and sympathetic on me? Dream on!"

"Look, I'm sorry about that, but you gotta understand, that guy is my friend! You were gonna kill him!"

"And that's no worse than what he was tryin' to do to us! Those things may have been your buds once, Wolfie, but those days are over! I don't know what's goin' on, but it's time to flashforward to today and deal with it! Scan the Big Picture, man! Friends don't last forever in this line of work!" There is an unspoken pain in Nightrider's words that does not go unnoticed. "Now, they've got what I want, and I'm gettin' it back, no matter who's stupid enough to try'n get in my way, understand?"

The two stare into each other's eyes, neither giving an inch until, finally, Timber Wolf speaks.

"Fine. You want whatever it is you're after, and I want my friends back. The way I see it, it's in both of our best interests to work together on this. I can call in the Legion and..."

"Forget it. I told you before; I'm not into the team thing, anymore," interrupts Dagon with a wave of his hand. "And what's your stake in all this, half-pint? What's your interest in the helmet?"

A few feet away, Ling barely hears the question, intent as he is on a silent voice that calls to him from amidst the rubble. It beckons him to search it out in a language that he knows to be ancient yet, somehow, understands completely. As he makes his way through the debris, trying to maintain his balance as he trips over his ragged robes, Dagon's question barely registers. In an almost trancelike state, he stops, gently places the Helm of Nabu down, and begins clawing his way through the stone and metal.

"Kid?" asks Timber Wolf. "You alright?'

When no answer is forthcoming, the two men look at each other questioningly, then make their way over to Ling's side. Seeing the determination in the young sorcerer's eyes, they both help him dig until they have unearthed a bronze-colored, metallic tube, etched with gold and silver lettering.

"What the frag is it?" asks Dagon.

"I...am not sure. I only know that it calls to me, compelling me to take it with us," answers Ling, slowly regaining his senses.

"Take it with us where, exactly?"

"I am afraid I do not know that, either."

"Wonderful. Man, I am not feelin' comfortable with this..." grumbles Brin. "This magic-type stuff makes me itchy..."

"Gee, maybe you should try a new flea bath..." replies Dagon sarcastically.

"Funny, fangs. Okay, let's head over to the museum. Maybe Stefanacci can tell us something useful. On the way, kid, you can fill us in on what you were doin' here."

** LLL **

Minutes later, having compared notes on the way, the three young men are standing amidst the remains of the Museum of the Mystic Arts. Pieces of the Museum's vast inventory are scattered amidst fallen stones and broken plasti-steel. Small fires burn in spots throughout the area. Items of power lie alongside old-time parlor tricks, ancient scrolls are mixed with instruction booklets. Dust and rubble is everywhere. In the midst of this devastation kneels Antonio Stefanacci, the museum's curator, trembling.

"Not again. Lords of my ancestors, not again..." he moans.

"Hells! Stefanacci, what happened here?"

"They...they appeared so quickly, Timber Wolf. Swarming, swirling everywhere..."

Helping the older man to his feet, Brin is taken aback at the sight of him. It is not the cuts and bruises that surprise him, although they are many. Rather, it is the naked, abject fear in the old man's eyes that shocks him.

"Shadows...dark, evil shadows...they tore my museum apart! They left nothing unturned. It was as if...as if they were searching for something..."

Ling quickly slides a chair beneath the curator as his legs begin to give way.

"T-Thank you, young man. Please, Timber Wolf...please keep them away!" he begs, shaking uncontrollably.

A look of distaste crosses Nightrider's face and he turns away. Brin notices, but says nothing, deciding to try and comfort Stefanacci, instead.

"Easy, sir, easy. You're okay, now. They're gone."

"No, you don't understand! They'll be back! They'll be back!"

"Friend Timber Wolf, perhaps I can be of assistance..." interjects Ling, stepping forward. Holding the two mystic artifacts in one arm, he begins to make intricate gestures with his free hand. Minutes pass, and Stefanacci begins to calm, his breathing becoming slow and even. Then, his eyes come to rest upon the two metallic artifacts being held by the young sorcerer.

"W-Where did you get those?" he asks.

"Ling took them from the Paranormal Research Center," answers Brin, his eyes narrowing. "Why? Do they mean something to you?"

"I had heard that they had acquired the Helm of Nabu, of course, but that tube was sent to them for study only two days ago..."

"Are you sure, sir?"

"Of course I am. I'm the one who sent it to them."

At that, Nightrider's curiosity is piqued and he moves closer to the curator, stepping into the light for the first time since their arrival. Stefanacci blanches noticeably.

"You mean, it was here until two days ago?" the vampire asks.

"Y-You're...you're...one of...one of the undead!"

"Yeah, yeah, yeah... Now, what about the tube?"

Ling steps forward, his quiet, calm manner easing the curator's fears.

"Please, sir, tell us what you know of this thing. Set us on the right path, that we may stop the spread of this darkness."

Glancing nervously at Dagon, Stefanacci continues.

"An old friend in Metropolis sent it to me. It contains an ancient parchment in an unfamiliar language. I spent some time trying to decipher the scroll inside, but couldn't. Then, while cleaning up after the recent trouble with Darkseid, I decided to send it over to the Research Center for study, hoping that their more varied resources could interpret it. How did you get it?"

"We ran into more of your shadow-buddies over at the Center," answers Brin. "From what Dagon, here, says, they must have found what they were looking for over there and then vanished."

"Yet this thing has called to me, old sir, as if it were alive. I feel that it holds something of great import."

"Hmmmmmm..." The older man rises and strokes his mustache, taking great care to avoid the brooding Dagon. As he speaks, he nonchalantly removes a cross from his desk drawer and grips it tightly in his hand. "This is obviously something beyond my limited expertise. However, there is someone who might be able to unravel all of this. His methods are rumored to be a bit...unorthodox...but I know of no other who has the experience required to make sense out of these events."

Rifling through disheveled papers, he removes a business card from the desk and hands it to Timber Wolf.

"He resides in Old Georgetown. His name is Baron Winters."

** LLL **

Later, Dagon and Ling find themselves huddled behind some foliage staring at a golden, inverted rocket with deep red fins protruding from the sides. Against Dagon's very loud protests, Timber Wolf had insisted they stop here before going to see the mysterious Baron Winters.

"This is nuts! Why're you wastin' feet comin' here instead of checkin' out that Baron the old man told us about?!?"

"Quiet, fangs!" Brin hisses. "Something's not right here."

"What is it, friend Timber Wolf?"

"I'm not sure, shortstuff. Just a feeling my senses're pickin' up..." answers Brin. His eyes continuously scan the area, watching for anything unusual.

"Could you at least tell us where the Hell we are?" asks Dagon. "All I see is that silly-lookin' yellow eyesore! Don't tell me you dragged us here just to blind us!"

"For your information, pal, that 'eyesore' used to be the Legion Clubhouse! We turned it over to the Substitute Legion when we got our new one. Hopefully, some of the Subs are around, and I can get us some help before we go see this Baron guy. Now, c'mon. I'm still not comfortable, but we won't get anywhere by hiding out here. Just keep your eyes open..."

As the three young men walk through the plaza towards the Clubhouse, Dagon is still not satisfied.

"Look, I told you before, man, I'm not doin' the team thing. Besides, why didn't you take us to your Legion buddies if you wanted backup, instead of the reject team?"

"Because I tried to call the Legion after we left Stefanacci and got nothing but static," answers Brin. "Something's jamming my comm-link and, considering we fought a few of them at the Research Center, I thought it would be better to stay away from Legion HQ for now."

"I would say that is a sound assumption."

"Who asked you, half-pint?" snaps Dagon.

"Hey, lay off the kid, fangs! He's had a rough time..."

"Awww, my heart bleeds! How'd you like to be in my coffin for a while?"

"Y'know, back at the Center, I thought maybe I was beginnin' to like you, maybe you weren't so bad after all! But, y'know what? I was wrong! You're nothin' but a self-centered, annoying sprockhead!" replies Brin, his voice raising.

"I don't need or want your approval, Wolfie! I've done fine by myself all this time, and as soon as I get the Soultaker back from those things, I'm outta here!" Dagon yells back.

Behind the two arguing men, young Ling looks up into the gray sky.

"Friends, look..." he says, pointing upward.

"Hold on, shorty," answers Brin. "Tell you what, Dagon, why don't you go now and we'll port the thing to ya! That way, we'll all be happy!"

"Shyeah, right! Like I'd trust an EarthGov puppet like you to keep a promise! Hah!"

"Please, you must listen..." pleads Ling.

"Quiet, Ling!" snaps Brin unintentionally. "A puppet?!? Are you nuts?? If I was a puppet for EarthGov, I would have turned you in back at the Center!"

"Maybe you should have! At least it would've been less painful than gettin' zonked by that stone you hit me with!"

"I told you, I had no choice! You..."

"Look out!!"

Ling's sudden cry snaps both men out of their arguing, just in time for them to jump out of the way of a thrown chunk of pavement that lands with a loud crash.

KA-BOOM!!!!

Dagon instinctively turns to mist as Timber Wolf executes a series of leaps and spins, holding Ling protectively against him.

"Kid, why the Nass didn't you tell us those shadow-things were comin'???" he asks.

"I tried! You and the dark one were too absorbed in yourselves to listen!" Ling replies. Timber Wolf is momentarily surprised at the tone of annoyance in the young Oriental's voice.

"Okay, kid, okay. Let's concentrate on gettin' outta this scrap and chastise us later, alright?"

A small grin is Ling's answer as he uses a spell of transmutation to turn an approaching projectile to water, inadvertently soaking them both.

Meanwhile, Dagon has re-formed and is slashing wildly at a dark, round shape that keeps bouncing out of his way. Then, an ebony female form with antennae and long hair grabs him around the neck from behind and kisses his cheek. She waits a moment, then seems startled when nothing happens.

"Thanks for the peck, meat, but I get the feeling it wasn't meant to heat up my blood, was it?"

Grabbing her around her neck, he flips her over his head and slams Infectious Lass down to the pavement, knocking her unconscious. However, he has left himself wide open for the converted Bouncing Boy, who slams violently into him and knocks him to the ground. As Dagon struggles to regain his breath, he looks up to see a dark form with the emblem of an owl on her chest about to drive a tree limb through his chest. Too groggy to move, he watches as the pointed wood is thrust downward towards him, only to splinter inches above his chest amid sparks of energy from an invisible, mystic barrier.

"Wha...? Ling?"

Glancing to his left, he sees the young Japanese sorcerer, hands outstretched in Dagon's direction. Then, he is lifted up by powerful arms that carry him away from the startled, angry shadowdrone.

"C'mon, Fangs, let's move it! Night Girl gets her power from darkness! If she's been turned into one of them, she's gonna be damn near invincible!"

Setting Dagon down next to Ling, Brin sends the approaching Bouncing Boy careening away with a forceful spinkick.

"Damn. Sorry, Chuck."

Hesitantly, Ling places a hand on Brin's forearm. "Friend Timber Wolf, look..."

As more shadowdrones approach from all sides, a growl begins to rumble in Timber Wolf's chest. His plans of finding help dashed, he prepares to do battle with the very friends he had hoped would aid him. Suddenly, he feels the wind pick up, blowing fiercely through the plaza. Then, out of the corner of his eyes, he sees Dagon stand tall and throw one hand into the air, his long, leather coat whipping wildly behind him. Brin watches, amazed, as storm clouds gather above them and rain begins to fall, pelting them harshly as if in anger at being disturbed. Then, just as the oncoming demons are within striking distance, there is a loud thunderclap and bolts of lightning slice through the air, landing all around the three heroes but never touching them. Instead, the intense light from the bolts causes the advancing shadowdrones to back away. Through the downpour, Dagon yells at his companions.

"C'mon! We've gotta go while they're stunned!"

With a nod, Timber Wolf grabs Ling by the collar and uses his Legion flight ring to fly up and over the storm, followed quickly by Dagon in the form of a bat. For long minutes, they are quiet, waiting for the signs of pursuit. When none are forthcoming, they relax a bit. All, that is, except Timber Wolf, who has a stern, determined look on his face.

"They almost got us, y'know..." says Dagon, simply, noticing the grimace on Brin's face.

"Uh-hunh."

"The Maker smiles on us, tonight," offers Ling, now gripped around his back by Brin.

"Maybe."

"So, where are we off to now, Wolfie?" asks Dagon, intentionally trying to lighten his voice.

Timber Wolf suddenly turns to face the vampire. His face has become more feral, more bestial than Dagon has yet seen it. Brin's eyebrows and sideburns have lengthened into a demon-like appearance, and his fangs have grown long enough to protrude over his lower lip. A smoky white film covers the pupils of his eyes. The man called Nightrider is shocked at this demonstration of the beast that lies behind Brin's normal appearance. He sees Ling gasp and jump slightly.

"Now, Fangs? Now, we're goin' to see this Baron Winters. After that, we find Ling's talismans and frag the bastard that's done this to my friends! Any objections?"

Not waiting for any reply, Timber Wolf turns his head forward and continues to fly towards Old Georgetown.

  Chapter Nine

"Welcome to my home."

The dark-skinned man nods, eyeing the Baron's companion warily.

"Oh, don't worry about Faust," smiles Baron Winters, "he's really quite harmless...."

"I know more than a few demons who would disagree with that..." offers Faust drily.

"You said that this dimension, and my friends, were in danger, Baron. Don't you think we should dismiss with the pleasantries and get down to business?"

"Huh! He calls this 'pleasantries'?"

The new arrival glares impatiently at the remark.

"Hush, Faust. Our friend is correct, time grows short. There is a being, called Obsidian, who would thrust this universe into darkness and chaos, as Darkseid attempted before him. It is to aid us in stopping this evil that we have summoned you here."

The man folds his arms, dark green cape stretching over his muscled shoulders as he pulls it around himself. He stares at Baron Winters for a long moment, then speaks, his deep, baritone voice almost commanding.

"Obviously, this 'Darkseid' failed, or else we wouldn't be standing here. Why do you need me? What about the heroes of this dimension, like the Legion?"

"The Legion, for the most part, has already been compromised. Only a few of their number remain at large and of their own free will. Those that do are already preparing for the battle, but they cannot do it alone. They need the power that your magiks can give them. Considering your former ties to this plane, will you help them?"

The robed man considers the question long and hard. It has been a very long time, years in fact, since he was last in this dimension. He has changed much, learned much. Yet, perhaps, not enough. He can still feel old resentments and prejudices clawing at the back of his mind. Still, he can sense the sincerity in the Baron's voice. These days, his own natural abilities enable him to detect the subtle vibrations in a person's vocal chords, the nuances in their voice that they, themselves, are not even aware of, allowing him to determine truth from lie. At this moment, at least, Baron Winters is being completely honest.

"Yes, Baron, I will help," he answers. "However, I would prefer to keep the heroes unaware of my presence for as long as possible. You are obviously aware of our 'history' together, and I do not want to have to confront old memories until absolutely necessary."

Arms folded, Faust looks dubiously at the Baron. "Are you sure he's worth all this trouble, Winters?"

The Baron grins. "Yes, Faust. Quite sure."

Just then, the doorbell chimes.

"Ah, how timely. If you will excuse me, gentlemen?"

With a slight bow of his head, Baron Winters leaves the room.

** LLL **

Minutes earlier, outside the old mansion, Timber Wolf, the vampiric Nightrider, and the young man named Ling stare up into the dark, gloomy sky. Though the storm that raged earlier has subsided, a cold wind continues to blow through the sparse tree limbs surrounding the house.

"Aahhhhhh... Just like my old home in Transylvania..." quips Dagon. The joke is lost on his two companions.

"Ling, you still have the scroll?" Timber Wolf asks.

"Of course, Friend Timber Wolf," he answers, removing the metal tube from his belt.

"I told ya before, pal, call me Brin. Or just Timber Wolf."

"Or Wolfie..." interjects Dagon with a smirk. "Can we just get on with this? I mean, I'm not decaying any slower, y'know? If I don't get inside before the sun comes up..."

"Relax, Fangs. Or, haven't you noticed?" asks Brin.

"Noticed what?"

"That the sun was due to rise hours ago. We've been on the go all night. Guess you vampires kinda lose track of time, bein' immortal an' all, huh?"

"But, how is that possible?" asks Ling, obviously shaken. "The sunrise is as constant as the passage of time! It is the natural order of things!"

"Yeah, well, I guess whoever's behind all this hasn't got much respect for the 'natural order,' shortstuff, or anything else, for that matter. I'm sure my friends could tell ya that...." There is a sudden edge in Timber Wolf's voice, reminding the two of Brin's sudden change in appearance after the battle in Metropolis.

Silently, Brin walks up the winding cement steps to the huge, wooden door and rings the bell. Seconds later, a smiling Baron Winters opens the door.

"Welcome, my friends. I've been expecting you."

As they cautiously enter the house, Brin feels every hair on the back of his neck rise.

** LLL **

Obsidian is angry.

"What do you mean you lost the Helm of Nabu!?! How is that possible??"

The shadowdrone stands stiff and unmoving as tendrils of darkness swirl madly around the throneroom of Orando. Obsidian paces restlessly around the room, much as a caged tiger would at feeding time. Klarion sits with Teekl in a corner, nonchalantly brushing the were-cat's fur as he closely watches the exchange.

"There was resistance, Master. The ancient scroll could not be located, either. We were barely able to retrieve the Soultaker sword."

"Resistance? Resistance?!?" he yells. Horrible statues made of black marble crash against the walls as the villain's rage increases. "What kind of 'resistance' could they possibly mount against you? Between your own abilities and my dark power, you're more than a match for ordinary humans!"

The former Garth Ranzz, Lightning Lad, stares ahead blankly as he answers in a robotic, monotone voice.

"It was the Legionnaire called Timber Wolf, and two others. One of them, a magician, protected the Helm from us. We attempted to convert the third, but his cellular structure was too tainted to be overcome."

"BAH!" A wave of his arm sends the heavy throne flying. "I knew it! The damn Legion! Klarion, I thought we had neutralized them, especially the powerful ones!"

"So did I, but they're as numerous as a plague of locusts!" the Witch-Man answers innocently. "I guess a few of them were...overlooked." Teekl purrs as her master's look of innocence becomes a knowing grin.

"Well, find them again! Find this magician and get the Helm of Nabu back, whatever it takes! In fact, when you do find it, bring the magician's hands back with it! That should show them that nobody stands in my way, anymore! Nobody!"

After dismissing the shadowdrone, long fingers of shadow return the throne to its rightful position and the being once called Todd Rice slumps into it, dejectedly.

"I'll show them..." he whispers. "I'll show them all...."

** LLL **

Back in Old Georgetown, Baron Winters has taken the scroll from Brin and rejoined his other two guests. After long minutes of intense scrutiny, Faust believes he has properly translated it.

"Are you sure you have translated the ancient text correctly? We cannot afford any mistakes at this point, and I'm not sure how much longer my other three guests will be content to sit in the parlor...."

"Relax, Winters," replies Faust. "I may be a soulless bastard, but I know what I'm doing."

"Let's hope so. My time is much too valuable to waste on wild goose chases...."

"Well, excuse us! Y'know, Dragonbreath, or whatever your name is, we were doing just fine without you..." returns Faust angrily.

"The name, as far as you are concerned, is Dragonmage. And if that's true, then you two would not have contacted me and asked for my help," the sorcerer says simply.

"Well, it certainly wasn't my idea! Far as I'm concerned, you can take your 'valuable time' and stick it right up your...."

"Gentlemen, please!" interrupts the Baron. "Can we get on with this? Faust, please tell us what you found in the scroll."

An angry glance is exchanged with Dragonmage, then Faust takes the piece of parchment and lays it out on a nearby table. Carefully unraveling the ancient, cracked parchment, he begins to read the prophecy it contains:

"And a time shall come, when darkness twofold,
Covers the land, from days of old.
The first shall be vanquished by might and by brain,
But the second must be by blood and by flame.
Two foes must meet, and work as one,
If the evil one shall be undone.
Five items of power must be found,
Then placed together on hallowed ground.
A dragon returns from a faraway land,
And a warrior falls, by a comrade's hand.
Child of Light must embrace the past,
While the Child of Dark shall be the last.
Into place these things must fall,
Else the darkness shall consume ye all..."

A howling wind suddenly sweeps through the darkened house as Faust finishes.

"Nice effects," he says.

"Faust, please! I'm trying to think...."

Taking the scroll from Faust, Baron Winters paces slowly about the large library, lost in thought. Then, black cloak billowing behind him and ever-faithful Merlin at his side, he opens a set of glass patio doors and steps out into his garden, oblivious to the cold, howling wind. Absently scratching the leopard's head, his eyes scan the darkened skies, as if searching for answers to his unvoiced questions. Then, his gaze lowers and he studies the ancient parchment in his hands.

"Hmmmmm.... Interesting," says the Baron. "Very interesting, indeed."

"Can you decipher its meaning, Baron Winters?" asks Dragonmage, joining his mysterious host. Faust follows close behind.

"If what Mr. Londo told me is true, the shadowdemons were searching for this at Stefannaci's museum, not realizing he had already sent it to the Research Center. Obviously, the prophecy it contains is important to their master. The question is, how can we use it to our advantage?"

"If we could figure out what all the references mean, maybe we'd have a better chance at stopping this 'darkness'," offers Faust. "Too bad I can only translate the actual words and not the meaning behind them...."

"Yes, it is, but perhaps there is another way. This particular scroll comes from the ancient mystics of Atlantis, most of whom have vanished over time. However, I know of someone who might be of assistance. In fact, he owes me a debt. Please excuse me for a moment, while I contact him."

"And who might 'he' be?" asks Faust.

"I'm sure you've heard of him. His name is Arion. Or, rather, it was Arion..." replies the Baron.

"What do you mean 'was', Baron Winters?" Dragonmage asks.

"It means the guy's dead, buddy. Stick around here long enough, and you'll come to realize the Baron's got some real...unusual...friends."

With a slight smirk at his companion's remark, Baron Winters returns to the house, leaving the two men alone in the garden. More than a little annoyed at being left with the stranger again, Faust begins to whistle a nonsensical tune while pretending to have a deep interest in one of the Baron's gardenias.

"You don't like me much."

"Hm? Did you say something?" asks Faust innocently.

"I said, you don't like me much," the man repeats.

"Don't know you well enough to care one way or the other, actually. Besides, you're not exactly Mr. Congeniality, yourself," Faust replies, picking his teeth with a twig.

"Please don't misunderstand me," smiles Dragonmage, "I really don't care what your opinion of me is. I was just stating the obvious. Personally, I can't stand you, either. I'll be glad when this business is over and I can return to my people."

Faust grunts. "Me, too. I thought the Baron was a pain in the ass, but you've got him beat by a mile! In fact, if Winters wasn't convinced we need your help, I'd take great satisfaction in kickin' your butt! As it is, I suggest you take that as an indication to stay clear of me for the remainder of this little mission."

"I will take it," says the dark-skinned man, "as a sign of extreme overconfidence in your own abilities. I'm not some charlatan on the Psychic Omni-Viewer, little man! I am the Dragonmage, born of blood and fire! Champion of my people, who have been persecuted by your kind for centuries! It is only the possibility of this threat eventually affecting them that keeps me here, tolerating you!"

As tempers begin to flare, a dense mist begins to permeate the garden. In seconds, it coalesces into the form of a pale young man.

"Hey, if there's gonna be some slice n' dice, meat, count me in!" says Dagon.

"Who the Hell're you?" asks Faust.

"Call me Nightrider. So, what's it gonna be?"

"It is going to 'be' your death, fool, if you do not leave us alone!" answers Dragonmage. "We have pressing business, and no time for your foolishness."

"Oh, but plenty for your own foolishness, huh?" Dagon smiles. The two would-be combatants glare at him, suitably chastised.

"What're you doing here, bloodsucker?" asks Faust, obviously annoyed.

"Some...friends...and I have business with the owner of the place. He's checkin' something out for us. I'm just scanning the layout until he comes back. What about you? Who are you guys, anyway?"

"They are associates of mine, vampire," answers Baron Winters as he returns to the garden. "Now, if you would be good enough to follow Merlin back to the parlor where I left you, I will join you and your friends momentarily."

The stern look on the Baron's worn face indicates that he will not take "no" for an answer. A low growl rumbles in the leopard's chest as he pads over to Dagon, stops to stare at him, then continues, pausing inside the doors to await the vampire's expected compliance with his master's orders.

"Yeah, whatever," replies Dagon as he follows the beast, eyeing the three men remaining in the garden suspiciously. As the Baron studies his flowers, the other two watch through the patio doors until the vampire has reentered and exited the adjoining library.

"God, what an annoying little bugger!"

"Yes, Faust, he is," agrees the Baron, sniffing a tulip."He reminds me of you, actually...without the fangs, of course."

The young sorcerer bristles at Dragonmage's barely repressed grin.

"Funny, Winters, very funny, but I'm not even half as arrogant as that...that...vampire!"

The baron picks up a pair of pruning shears and begins trimming his roses.

"Mm-hm. Well, I would suggest that you get used to him, my friend."

"Why?"

"Because, when he and his companions leave this house, you will be going with them."

  Chapter Ten

In a dimly-lit parlor within the ancient walls of Wintersgate Manor, Timber Wolf has just discovered that one of his companions has gone missing. He is more than a little annoyed.

"I am gonna kill that vampire!"

A super-strong fist crashes down upon a hardwood table, smashing it to pieces. Only Ling's quick reflexes keep the Ming vase on top of it from being shattered, also.

"What the frag does he think he's doing, goin' all misty and slitherin' outta here?!? He was the one all hot n' bothered to find that sprockin' sword he's after! Now, we're finally gettin' somewhere and he disappears??"

"Friend Timber Wolf, please..." pleads the young Japanese, gently laying his hand upon his friend's arm.

"Please WHAT?????" snaps Brin, spinning around and flinging the teenager's body across the room. Immediately, he realizes what he's done and somersaults across the parlor, his Legion flight ring enabling him to jump ahead and catch the thrown boy before he hits the wall...barely.

"Aw, geez, pal, I'm sorry! I-I don't know what came over me!"

Pushing himself away from Brin's hairy, muscled chest, the young sorceror straightens his robes, his face flushed with embarrassment.

"It is alright. I was not harmed."

Timber Wolf hears the quiet crack in his voice and sees the look of disappointment in the young man's eyes. He begins to apologize again, but knows it will change nothing. Something in those eyes tells him he has passed an unspoken line. Running his hand through his coarse, brown hair, Brin plops down on one of the soft, plush sofa's and puts his feet up on the antique table in front of it.

"So, kid, since we have some time to kill, why don't you tell me about yourself?"

The young man turns his head slightly in Brin's direction, momentarily taking his attention away from inspecting the French doily in his hands. He pauses a moment, then answers.

"There is not much to tell."

"Yeah, I've heard that before. Look, kid...Ling...I can tell there's a lot goin' on in that head o' yours, whether you wanna admit it or not. C'mon, talk to me. Where are you from? What about your parents?"

Ling's eyes close and his head bows slightly. "I never knew my parents. And my father is dead."

"Huh? That doesn't make sense...."

"I was orphaned as a babe, left in the care of the Serpent's Tooth Clan on the planet Ryanok. Raised by the elders of the clan, I began training at an early age in the mystic ways of their ancestors. I was happy. Then, one dark day, some of the clansmen rescued a stranger from the jaws of a slasherbeast and brought him back to our village. As he healed from his wounds, he lived as one of us and ingratiated himself into the hearts of the clan, especially one impressionable young boy. I was that boy...."

Brin watches intently as the youth swallows hard, clears his throat and then continues.

"We spent days exploring together, and countless hours playing. He and I grew close, bonding together. Eventually, the man decided it was time for him to return to his former life and he petitioned the elders to let me return with him as...as his son."

He turns and walks slowly away from Brin, his calm demeanor failing to hide his turbulant emotions from Brin's heightened senses. The boy's movements are tense, stiff. His heart is racing, and he is making a conscious effort to control his breathing.

"Two days after we left the village, his mood changed. He became angrier, more belligerent. No matter how I tried, I was unable to please him, at least, in normal ways. I soon learned, quite forcibly, that the hot nights of Ryanok offered an opportunity to make him happy, if only fleetingly..."

"That bastard...." Brin hisses between clenched teeth.

"Eventually," Ling continues, "he tired of even that and began to beat me if I displeased him. Once, he beat me nearly within an inch of my life and I ran, back to the village and people I had loved for so long. It was a long, hard journey, but I finally arrived. The sight that greeted me is one I shall never forget. The village was destroyed, it's people slaughtered."

Slim, young hands resting on a wooden tabletop curl into fists and his body trembles slightly.

"When I later confronted my 'father', he told me that he had returned to the village the day after our departure and done the evil deed. He wanted my mystic training and abilities for himself, to aid him in obtaining great wealth. Fearful of interference from the elders, he killed them, and all who tried to stop him. Which, in the case of the Dragon's Tooth clan, was every man, woman and child."

The two are silent for a long moment. Then, Brin speaks.

"And what happened to him? Your father?" he asks.

"I killed him."

** LLL **

At the Paranormal Research Center in Mega-California, cleanup crews are just beginning to clear out the debris from the battle fought the night before. Stepping carefully through broken doors, Phantom Girl takes in the scene of devastation, glad to get inside out of the cold wind and dark skies.

"What in the galaxies happened here?"

Immediately, one of the supervising guards rushes over.

"Phantom Girl! You haven't heard?" he asks.

"No, I've been...out of town," she responds, evasively. "What happened?"

"Oh, it was horrible!" answers the sprightly old man. "If it wasn't for Timber Wolf and his friends...."

"Timber Wolf?!? Brin was here?"

"Ahhh, yes, he and two others saved us from those...those shadow-things! They...ahem...I mean, we chased them off!" he answers proudly. "If you're here for more information about the monstrosities, though, I've already told all I know to your friends...."

"Er, no, actually, I'm here for something else. Have you heard of a sword called 'Soultaker'?"

For a moment, he looks at her suspiciously. Then, rubbing his chin, he replies.

"Why, yes, actually I have. In fact, it was under observation here until those shadow-things took it. That, the Helm of Nabu and an ancient Atlantean scroll are all missing...."

"Really??" she asks, slightly surprised. "Hmmmm, I guess we are on the right track, after all...."

"Excuse me? What was that?" the old man asks, cupping his ear.

"Oh, nothing, sir. Just thinking out loud. Thanks so much for your help."

Bidding the man goodbye as she turns to leave, Tinya smiles. Brin was here! Thank the stars! she thinks. That means that all of the others weren't converted! And, if that's the case, maybe Jo and Mon-El haven't been, either! I've got to tell Val and the others. We might have missed out on getting Soultaker and, apparently, the Helm of Nabu, too, but at least I have some good news to tell them!

Suddenly, the room is bathed in red and sirens begin blaring loudly.

"What's happening??" she asks.

Quickly checking his wrist-com, the guard blanches visibly. "By the Moons of Saturn! There is an energy reading of Omega Three in one of the higher labs! An experiment must have gone horribly wrong!"

Immediately, Phantom Girl takes to the air, grim determination on her face as she flies upwards, phasing her body through the many floors of the Center. Soon, near the very top of the building, she finds the lab she seeks. A weird, red glow emanates from beyond a heavily-reinforced portal. Center employees run away from the area, screaming about death and ruin. Security personnel rush past her, carrying various tools and medi-kits into the room. Without hesitation, Tinya follows them into the lab.

Once she is inside, Phantom Girl quickly assesses the chaos around her. She stands in a type of observation deck, with the viewing window shattered and smoke quickly filling the area. Inside the main lab, she can see a large, mechanical arm hanging, half-severed from its base, still holding a large metal tray containing five glowing red stones. A few technicians, some still alive, lay scattered about the room.

"What happened here?" she asks, almost demanding.

"The Rubies of Ron-Durr!" answers a panicky assistant. "One of the technicians was treating them with dragon's blood, when one of the stones began to glow and shoot beams of energy all over the lab! The energy struck the Mech-Arm, cutting it in half! The Arm weighs three tons! If it falls completely, it'll crash through the entire building!"

Suddenly, another beam of energy erupts from the stone, barely missing Tinya's head.

"Well, those beams can't hurt me! You guys work on securing the Arm! I'll take care of the rubies!" she orders before flying into the lab, turning immaterial to allow the energy to pass through her.

Seconds later, she reaches the tray of rubies. Although each of them is glowing, with a thin beam of light running between them, the destructive beams have subsided once again.

Hmmmm.....The energy seems to have stopped, she thinks, grabbing a nearby container. If I hurry, maybe I can get them to a safe place before it starts up again.

Carefully, she solidifies her hands and begins to gather them up in the containment bin. Her hand touches one of the two remaining gems when she hears one of the guards yell.

"Look out! We can't hold it! It's gonna go!!"

Looking up, Tinya sees the huge mechanical arm break off and begin to fall directly towards her. To her credit, her thoughts immediately turn to the safety of the people in the floors below. However, when she realizes that there is precious little she can do for them, she curses and wishes desperately for some kind of miracle. In seconds, the Arm is on top of her, passing through her immaterial body. It is then that she feels a warmth shoot through the hand that is touching the ruby, and run throughout her entire body. For a moment, she is dizzy, nauseous, her eyes staring unfocused as three tons of wires and metal pass over and through her. Then, the feelings pass and she watches in shock as the huge Mech-Arm phases harmlessly through the floor.

** LLL **

Meanwhile, in the Japanese home of Karate Kid, the soft light of a computer screen glows against Val Armorr's bare chest. He stares intently at the screen, searching for any information regarding the whereabouts of the mysterious Spear of Destiny. So absorbed in his task is he, that he doesn't even notice the soft footfalls of his wife as she enters the bedroom.

Queen Projectra stops for a moment, admiring her husband's broad back and the way his muscles move as he types away on the keyboard. A subtle warmth runs through her body and she smiles. She knows her husband's work is important, but even the vaunted Karate Kid needs a break now and then. Yes, that would work. Any excuse would be more acceptable than the unreasonable fear she feels in the pit of her stomach. The fear that this might be the last chance they will have to be together in one another's arms, or for her to feel his strong body against hers. And, with the others out gathering their own information, now would seem to be the perfect time. Dropping her satin robe to the floor, she pads across the room to stand behind her husband's chair.

"Val?"

"Hmm…?" he responds, eyes never leaving the monitor.

Soft hands slide over his shoulders and down his muscular chest, eventually coming to rest on his tight abdominal muscles as she nuzzles his cheek with her own. A few gentle nibbles on his earlobe gets his attention.

"Mmmmmmmm...Jeckie, please...I've gotta finish this...."

Long, red fingernails trace circles around his belly-button. He feels her heaving breasts against the skin of his back as she plants tiny, wet kisses up and down his neck.

"Yes, my love, you do...." she whispers, blowing gently into his ear, "but you've also got to do something else...."

With a knowing grin, he stops typing and, eyes closed, leans back into the crook of his wife's neck.

"And what would that be?"

Taking advantage of his more relaxed position, her hand slides beneath the waistband of his ghi pants and her long fingernails graze gently, teasingly, against his skin. Projectra places her lips close to Val's ear and huskily whispers into it.

"You've got to make love to me. Now."

Without waiting for his reply, she places her free hand on his chin and, turning his face up to hers, kisses him deeply. For a moment, he is lost in the sensations of her soft skin against his, the faintly-perfumed scent of her hair, the gently insistent pressure of her tongue. Then, he begins to pull away, reluctantly freeing himself from her lips. She looks at him, a mixture of disappointment and insult on her face.

"Jeckie, we can't. Not now. Finding these artifacts is the only hope we have of helping our friends..."

She grudgingly releases him and wraps her arms about herself, as if cold. "I know, Val, but...."

Seeing that something is bothering her, Val stands and covers her arms from behind with his own.

"Honey, what is it? What's wrong?" he asks.

"I don't know. It just feels like...like this might be...the last time for us...."

A slightly amused smile plays across his face.

"Jeckie, ever since our wedding, you've felt that way before a battle and every time your feeling has been wrong. Personally, your Highness, I think you're just using it as an excuse to have your way with your royal consort!"

His joking manner brings a smile to her lips. "And would that be so bad?" she asks devilishly.

"No, my love, not so bad at all...." he replies, kissing her forehead and hugging her tightly against his chest. The slow rise and fall of his breathing comforts her and she sighs, her breath cool against his skin. Still, she finds she cannot ignore the feeling of dread that skitters about in the back of her mind.

"Val?"

"Mm-Hm?"

"Promise me this won't be the first time...."

"First time for what?"

"The first time my feeling is right."

For a moment, there is silence between them. Then, he quietly answers.

"I promise, my love. I promise. Now, c'mon. Excuse or not, you've talked me into taking a break...."

Their eyes meet and they smile. Then, with a gentle kiss and his biceps bulging, Karate Kid lifts Projectra up and carries her carefully to their bed.

  Chapter Eleven

"Val? Jeckie? Anyone here?... Oh!"

Anxious to speak with her teammates, Phantom Girl doesn't realize exactly what part of Karate Kid's house she is phasing through until it is too late. As her body slips through the roof, she is startled to find Karate Kid and Queen Projectra lying in their bed.

"Tinya? What's wrong?" asks Val, seemingly unaware of his nakedness as he jumps out of the bed.

"Uh, nothing, really...I just wanted to let you guys know that I'm back...."

"Well? What happened?" he asks.

"According to security, the Soultaker sword was taken from the Research Center by the shadows, along with the Helm of Nabu..." Tinya says, more than a little embarrassed as she tries to divert her eyes from Val's body.

"Damn!"

"But I did find out some good news! Apparently, Timber Wolf was at the Center when the shadow-things attacked. He and some others chased them off. That means that Brin, at least, hasn't been converted yet, and maybe some of the others are still free, too...."

"Brin was there?? Did they say where he went?"

"No, just that he flew off with two other men," she answers, desperately trying to find something in the room to focus her eyes on. "The security supervisor didn't recognize either of the other two."

Running his hand through his tousled brown hair, Val paces back and forth, already trying to figure out their next move. Projectra sits in the bed, satin sheets wrapped around her, smiling at her husband's unintentional flaunting and Tinya's embarrassed reaction.

"My love, perhaps you should put something on?"

"Jeckie, please, I'm trying to...."

A look of realization comes over him and he glances down at himself, then up at Tinya, who is now quietly giggling. Then, Karate Kid turns beet red and dives for his robe. The two women burst out laughing.

"Don't get dressed on my account, handsome!" teases Tinya, her embarrassment eased by Val's reaction.

"Why, Val! I never knew you had such an exhibitionist streak in you!" Projectra chimes in.

"Ha ha. Very funny, you two!" He glares. "Tinya, I am so sorry...!"

"It's okay, Val. Just don't let Jo find...out...."

At the mention of Ultra Boy's name, all three become silent. For a moment, they were able to forget about the uncertain fates of their missing teammates and friends. Now, that moment is past, ripped away by the harsh reality of the situation. Tinya puts a hand to her head, and Val can see her lip tremble slightly. He walks over to her and places a reassuring hand on her shoulder, but with a deep breath, Tinya holds her head up and waves him off.

"I'm okay, Val. Really."

With a glance at his wife, and her responding nod, Karate Kid turns away and sits down at his computer terminal. Jeckie walks over and quietly takes Phantom Girl's hand in hers before the two women join Val at the monitor.

"Okay, so the bad guys have two of the talismans. Not good, but at least that indicates we're on the right track. That leaves four still unaccounted for. As soon as Tasmia and Raven get back, we'll split up and head for the last known whereabouts of the others. Hopefully, one of them will have a lead on the Spear of Destiny by then."

"I hope so, my love, I hope so...." replies Projectra.

"It would be so much easier if something wasn't jamming our Legion comlinks! Then, we could fill in Shady and Raven, and try to find Brin, too!"

"I agree, P.G., but I'm not Brainy or Dirk. Figuring out what's jamming them is a bit out of my field of expertise. We'll just have to wait for the girls to come back, and think of another way to locate Brin...."

Projectra takes note of how her husband's jawline tightens as he talks about his best friend. Although he would never show it, she knows how worried he is about Timber Wolf, as well as the rest of their friends. She also knows that he is probably cursing himself for allowing her to seduce him away from his monitor a few hours ago. Watching Val's fingers glide somewhat awkwardly across the keyboard, Queen Projectra wants to feel guilty about their rendezvous, but finds she cannot. Was it selfish of her, especially with so much at stake? Yes, she thinks, it was. Was it wrong? After a moment, she decides no, it wasn't. She loves her husband deeply, and if the dread she feels in her soul is to be taken seriously, she had to feel him against her, perhaps for one last time.

** LLL **

In Wintersgate Manor, all is quiet. Baron Winters finds himself finally alone, the others involved in their own endeavors. Dragonmage is in one of the many guest rooms, meditating. Faust has left with Timber Wolf and his two companions, although he did so with great reluctance. Even Merlin has fallen into a fitful sleep, hunkering down at the side of his master's favorite chair. The Baron takes a moment to savor the silence, breathing in the calmness as if it were an intoxicating drug. Then, with a heavy sigh, he rises from the chair, being careful not to disturb the leopard's sleep, and heads for a certain doorway. He pauses a moment, then, resignedly, opens and steps through it. It is time.

** LLL **

In the royal castle on the occupied planet of Orando, the villainous Obsidian sits and broods. Klarion enters, giving his partner an annoyed, disgusted look.

"Obsidian, this is madness! The Legion woman still resists us! She'll never help you! Why you keep her alive is beyond me!"

A barely audible grunt is Obsidian's only answer, fueling Klarion's annoyance. For a moment, the sorcerer's temper begins to rise further, threatening to burst forth as a series of curses and damnations. Then, he thinks better of it and, with a playfully evil grin, decides to have some fun.

"She's much stronger than she first appears, you know," he says, a dark gleam in his eye. "This 'Dream Girl' might even have as strong a will as your late father...."

Obsidian's head whips around in Klarion's direction, black fire erupting in his eyes. Instantly, he rises from the throne and shoots tendrils of shadow at his companion. Caught off-guard by the speed of Obsidian's attack, Klarion is lifted into the air and slammed against a wall.

"Don't you EVER mention him to me again, do you hear?!? EVER!"

A burst of magikal energy, and Klarion frees himself, floating to the floor, eyes glowing as a howling wind whips his long hair about his face. Rubbing the back of his head, he glares darkly at Obsidian. Then, he grins.

"At least it got a rise out of you. You're absolutely no fun lately, you know!"

Obsidian stands, fists clenched, staring at the sorcerer. Then, suddenly, he throws his head back and laughs. It is a chilling, maniacal sound.

"You definitely have guts, Witch-Man! And you're right; I've done too much sulking. It's time to get started, and the first thing I want you to do is to kill that Dream Girl bitch! Should've done it long ago...."

With a roll of his eyes, Klarion answers, "As you wish."

Obsidian smiles, satisfied, then leaves the room, blue cloak flying behind him, leaving Klarion with his own dark thoughts.

And it is time, my unbalanced friend, that I did something I should have done long ago, too....

With an intricate gesture of his hands, Klarion disappears.

** LLL **

It is the middle of the 20th century, years before any of the members of the Legion of Super-Heroes have even been born. Yet, one of them stands in the parlor of Wintersgate Manor, waiting patiently for his host.

C'mon, Baron Winters. What's taking you so long?, wonders Karate Kid. I know that old woman in the Barrio said you could help us save Nik's son, but this place gives me the creeps!

One of the many doors lining the parlor opens, and Baron Winters steps into the room.

"Baron?? But, you and Nik left through that door, over there...." notes Val, nodding to a heavy oaken door across the room.

The Baron grins. "You will find, Mr. Armorr, that there are many doors in my home, some of which turn back upon themselves...." he says ominously. Karate Kid eyes him warily.

"Okay, but where's Nik? You said you had some questions for him...."

"You and your...companion...will be reunited shortly, but right now, I have need of you, and you only."

Baron Winters walks up to Val and places his two hands upon his head, thumbs against his temples. Val tenses slightly, but does not move away.

"What are you doing?"

"Relax, Val. You trust me, don't you?" asks the Baron.

"Yes, I guess so, but I'd still like to know what you're doing. What do you need me...unnnhhhhhh"

Suddenly, a black cloud invades Karate Kid's mind, and he is silent. His eyes roll back into his head and the only sound he hears is that of Baron Winters' voice.

"Hear me, Val Armorr, and hear me well...."

Minutes later, Val is sitting in one of the parlor chairs, his thoughts fuzzy as if he had just awaken from a dream. There is a soft clicking sound as a door closes behind him. He shakes his head, trying to clear it, as his friend Nik and Baron Winters re-enter the room through the heavy oaken door across from where he sits.

"Huh? But, you just left...?" he says, confused.

"What? Val, what're you talkin' about, man? We just walked in!" answers Nik.

"No, Nik, not you! The Baron!"

"I assure you, Mr. Armorr, I have not been away from your friend's side since we left this room," asserts Baron Winters.

"But, that's impossible! I saw you, talked to you...."

The conversation is interrupted by the deep chimes of the doorbell.

"Ah, the others have arrived. If you will excuse me?"

As the Baron leaves to answer the door, Nik seeks to comfort his friend, kneeling down next to the chair.

"Val, man, you okay? You don't look so good...."

As he speaks, Val's memory of Baron Winters' visit to him begins to fade.

"No, no, I'm fine, Nik. I just have this weird feeling, that's all. I'm sure it'll pass...." he says, rubbing his temples. He begins to wonder what it is he was trying to remember.

Just then, Baron Winters returns with two beautiful women.

"Gentlemen, now that we are all here, let us discuss this demon that preys on babies...."

  Chapter Twelve

There is a world, called Lythyl, where only the most hardened of beings can survive. A place where visitors must sign "waivers of responsibility" before entering. All landing parties are immediately shackled as they disembark, forced to earn their freedom through skill and ability. It is to this harsh, dangerous planet that Shadow Lass and Phantom Girl have travelled.

"After all the years we've known him, Shady, who would've thought that Val had a small fortune hidden away?"

"Until he married the queen of Orando, Karate Kid lived a simple life, Tinya. Let's just be happy he had enough to book us passage to Lythyl. Now, shush! The 'welcoming committee' approaches...."

Two men, at least seven feet tall apiece, dressed completely in leather, walk towards the two women. One of them stops, places a calloused hand beneath Tasmia Mallor's chin, and raises her head.

"Well, now! It's not often we get such...worthy...females here! It's a shame to chain up one as pretty as you are! Unless you were chained to my bed, of course!"

He laughs, and begins to place the shackles in his hand around Tasmia's wrists. The two Legionnaires, however, have other plans in mind. After a glance from her friend, Phantom Girl closes her eyes and waits for Tasmia to make her move.

"I think, lummox," Shady says dangerously, "that I would rather be chained to a Rimborian gutterdog!"

Throwing her hands up suddenly, Shadow Lass creates a burst of darkness that blinds all those in the area except herself and Phantom Girl, who has already become immaterial and slipped through her bonds. Grabbing Tinya by the wrists, Shady uses her flight ring to fly both of them above the landing port to freedom.

"I assume it worked, Shady?" asks Tinya, her eyes still closed.

"Like a charm. Now, let's get started finding this 'Symbol of the Seven'! Karate Kid said his sensei once told him of an object fitting the Symbol's description on display in a tavern somewhere around here. As distasteful as it sounds, I suppose we should begin with the local bars."

"Y'know, I can't help wondering what kind of teacher Val has, if he knows so much about this place! I wonder how he got his information?"

"I think, my friend, that I'd rather not know...."

The two women search for hours, to no avail. They endure the stares and remarks of many dirty, disgusting beings, both male and female, until their patience wears thin. Finally, in a tavern beneath the ground of the planet itself, they decide to take a momentary break from their search. In a darkened corner, the stone table lit only by a single candle, the two women plan their next move. As they talk, a waitress approaches. The top half of her body appears to be a blue-skinned, bare-breasted, humanoid female wearing a glittering silver necklace and matching bracelets. A curl of hair from her deep blue mohawk falls down over her scarred left eye. The bottom half is composed of a mass of slimy tentacles, flopping awkwardly from beneath a skirt of sheer red silk. The being slithers over to their table on its six legs, leaving a trail of ooze and carrying a comp-pad in its manicured hand.

"What's yer order, hags?"

The two Legionnaires look up at the remark. Normally, they would not abide such an insult, but they are both tired, and it is actually one of the nicer things they have been called since their arrival on this harsh world.

"Just some Kono Juice," replies Phantom Girl.

"Nothing for me."

"Awww, nothin' at all, sweeteyes? I'm sure there's gotta be somethin' in here you like...?"

Shadow Lass feels a tentacle wrap around her leg and slide slowly up and down her calf. She looks up to see the female's wolfish smile, and is thankful that she is wearing knee-high boots.

"I assure you, you have nothing that I want...." Tasmia replies, arching an eyebrow dangerously.

"Well, maybe you're just not lookin' in the right places, then...."

Leaning closer to the table, the waitress licks her lips and slowly fondles her breasts, pushing them together and closer to Tasmia's darkening face. In a flash of motion, Tasmia jumps up and grabs the necklace hanging from the female's neck in one hand, twisting it tightly around her neck. With her other hand, she places a sharp fingernail at the fleshy base of the waitress' throat, applying just enough pressure to draw a drop of green blood. Then, she leans in and whispers through gritted teeth into the whimpering female's ear.

"I am not by nature a violent woman. But, if you touch me or my friend again with your slimy appendages, I will see to it that they are removed from your body...painfully. Is that understood?"

The frightened female nods her understanding.

"Good. Now, I believe we ordered a Kono Juice...."

With a shove, Shadow Lass sends her flying onto the floor and resumes her seat.

"Ancestors! These people are disgusting!" swears Shadow Lass. "I don't know how much longer I can stomach them!"

"I know what you mean, Shady," agrees Phantom Girl, "but we don't have much choice! We've got to find that talisman...."

She looks over at her friend and sees a look of quiet frustration on her face. Tasmia Mallor's lips are drawn tightly together, her eyes downcast.

"Shady? What is it? What's wrong?"

"Nothing. I'm fine."

"C'mon, Shady, I know you better than that."

For a moment, Shadow Lass is silent. Taking a deep breath, she stares at the rough tabletop. After she has composed herself, she looks up at her best friend and gives her a tiny smile.

"I'm sorry, P.G., I guess my nerves are just getting a little raw. I mean, I have the utmost respect for Karate Kid, but he's no Cosmic Boy! How can we be sure that these talismans are even what we need? Talok's bones, even Val isn't completely sure! He's basing his plans on Brainy's computers, and isn't that a scary thought?!" Tasmia says, smiling ruefully. "Besides that, I know in my soul that Talok VIII needs me, and that my cousin Grev is in danger...Mon-El too, probably...but I can't do anything about it. Despite my role as Shadow Champion, I've felt too damn useless against these shadow-things...."

"Tasmia... It's okay. You don't always have to be the strong, supportive one, you know. At least, not with me. You're entitled to blow off some steam once in a while just like the rest of us 'mere mortals'...."

Both women smile at the remark.

"....but we'll get through this. We always do. We're Legion."

Tasmia begins to reply, but is suddenly interrupted as a patron of the tavern crashes into their table.

"Hey! What the....?!?"

"Apparently, the locals are getting a bit rowdy. Normally I would suggest we try to stop it, but in this place, I think we should just leave before things get out of hand."

"I agree. Let's... Wait! Shady, look! That guy with the glasses and leather jacket in the middle of the fight! What's that in his hand?"

"Ancestors, that's it! Tinya, that's got to be the Symbol of the Seven! I don't know what he's doing with it, but it looks like we'll be joining this fight after all!"

"Shady, Legionnaires don't get involved in bar fights!" Phantom Girl smiles, already joining the brawl by phasing through a barrage of flying fists.

Shadow Lass grins, giving her a quizzical look. "P.G., have you forgotten that our teammates include Timber Wolf and Sun Boy?"

"Well, I was actually referring to the female members...you know, the smart ones...." Tinya grins back.

The two women deftly avoid flying bottles, chairs and tables as they slowly make their way towards the darkly clad man in the center of the brawl. Finally, they find themselves fighting beside him.

"Looks like you could use a hand here...." offers Shadow Lass, using a judo throw to send an advancing thug flying. Turning, she notices the slight purplish glow surrounding the stranger's hands.

"Nothin' I can't handle, lady," he replies.

"Really? Fine. Unfortunately, I can't take a chance on anything happening to that item you're holding!"

"What d'you mean?"

Suddenly, Phantom Girl pops up out of the floor in front of him, grabbing the Symbol from his hand.

"What she means, is that we need this talisman a lot more than you do, friend! Sorry!"

Using her flight ring, Shadow Lass joins her friend, the two of them flying above the mob and heading for the door.

"Hey! Get back here, you bloody bitches!"

A bolt of mystic energy erupts from his hands, striking the two women and sending them crashing down to the floor with a thud.

"Unnnhhhh!"

"Ahhhhhhh!"

Forcing the crowd back, the man approaches the two fallen Legionnaires.

"I don't know what your problem is, ladies, but the Symbol's too important to Baron Winters for me to just let you fly off with it!"

"Did you say...uhhh...Baron Winters??" asks a dazed Shadow Lass. "Who...are you?"

"The name's Faust. Now, just be a good girl and lie there while I...."

CRASHHHH!! Suddenly, the far wall of the bar explodes inward, sending dust and debris everywhere.

"Awright, ya bastiche! Gimme back my good luck piece or things're gonna get ugly!"

"Damn, he's found me!" curses Faust, diving behind an overturned table.

"What? Who's found you?" asks Phantom Girl as she and Shadow Lass join him.

"Him!" replies Faust as he points in the direction of the new arrival. "Lobo!"

The hulking white-skinned brute enters the tavern, tossing brawlers out of his way as if they were paper. Some of them are actually still alive when they hit the floor.

"C'mon, ya skinny twerp! The Main Man's dyin' to feed you yer own entrails!"

"Colorful, isn't he?" asks Phantom Girl with a smirk.

"Don't let his vulgarity fool you. Lobo's one of the most feared humanoids in the galaxy," replies Faust.

"Oh, we've heard of him," says Shadow Lass, "we just aren't afraid of him!"

"There's a big difference between fear and respect, Shadow-Lady. Don't get 'em mixed up."

"Why is he after you?" Tinya asks, ducking under a thrown chair.

"Because the moronic brute was using the Symbol of The Seven as a good luck charm in one of the planet's arenas! He has no idea of the power it contains. Problem is, an associate of mine...."

"Baron Winters."

Faust turns to Shadow Lass, somewhat surprised.

"Yeah, Baron Winters. You know him?" he asks.

"We've...worked together," replies Tasmia coolly.

"Oh. Well, the Baron needs the thing to avert a coming catastrophe on Earth," continues Faust. "We managed to trace it to Lythyl and I waited until Lobo was preoccupied with the local 'entertainment committeee' before snatching it from his room. I was on my way to meet up with my magical ride home when these locals decided to show off their testosterone. Apparently, Lobo followed me here."

"Apparently."

"Well, we can work all this out later...." says Tinya.

"We???" asks Faust.

"Right now," she continues, "this situation's changed from a simple bar fight to a possible slaughter! Much as I hate to say it, we've got to stop Lobo before he kills all these people!"

"And how do you propose to do that?" Faust asks. "Even with my abilities, Lobo's a tough guy to beat!"

"You can relax, Faust. There's no need for you to leave the safety of your table. Phantom Girl and I will take care of him," responds Shadow Lass with a disgusted look. Faust begins to reply, but the two women have already left him, rejoining the brawl.

"Hey! You...You...Aahhhh, damn it!"

Only feet away, the two Legionnaires have confronted Lobo. Tinya's hands are on her hips defiantly, while Tasmia stands at her side, enveloped in her black cloak.

"What th' Frag is this? Th' two o' you frails think you c'n take th' Main Man? Haw!"

"Give it up, Lobo. This fight's over. Just go on back wherever you came from," says Tinya somberly.

"Oh yeah? An' just what d'you think you can do about it?"

"This."

With a wave of her hand, Shadow Lass covers the last Czarnian's face in an orb of darkness, allowing Phantom Girl to phase up through the floor behind him, become solid, and slam a wooden chair into the back of his head. Lobo doesn't flinch.

"Uh-oh."

"Feetl's Gizz! Can't anybody on this fraggin' mudball put up a decent fight?!? I mean, I gotta keep in practice!"

A backward swipe of his huge arm sends Phantom Girl flying into a crowd of onlookers.

"Hey, Tall, White and Ugly! Over here!"

"Huh?? Wuzzat?" Hearing Faust's taunts, but unable to see him, Lobo flails about blindly. "Come over here where I c'n see ya, ya bastiche!"

"Ummmmmmm, I don't think so."

FWAAMMM!!!

A powerful burst of mystic energy slams into Lobo's chest, knocking him off his feet.

"I see you decided to join us after all, eh, Faust?" asks Shadow Lass.

"Yeah, well, the sooner we get this over with, the sooner I get the Symbol back to Earth."

"We can discuss that after I check on Phantom Girl...." replies Tasmia, heading towards the spot where she last saw Tinya. She doesn't see Lobo start to rise, shaking off the effects of Faust's blast.

"Oooohhh.... Anybody get th' number o' that cruiser?" he groans. His eyes settle on Shadow Lass, making her way across the room through the crowd. Slowly, he rises to his feet, a satisfied grin on his face. "Hey! Shadow! Look out!" yells Faust, knowing he has no time to prepare a spell to save her.

Suddenly, with a flick of his wrist, and much faster than one would think possible for a being his size, Lobo sends the hook at the end of his chain sailing towards Shadow Lass. She turns to see the sharp hook heading for her, and knows she has no chance of avoiding it. Hoping to somehow lessen her injuries, Tasmia gets ready to try and jump out of the hook's path. But before she can move out of the way, Phantom Girl phases up out of the floor and brushes her hand against the chain, causing the entire length to become immaterial and pass harmlessly through her friend.

"Tinya?!? What...?"

"It's something that happened to me at the Research Center," she explains. "Apparently, I can make other objects immaterial now, too! I had thought it was a one-time thing, but thank the Gods it wasn't!"

As Lobo curses them both, the two women rejoin Faust at the other end of the room.

"Thanks for the warning," offers Shadow Lass,"but what happened to your magic?"

"That bolt I hit Ugly with took a lot out of me. I need some time to re-charge," Faust answers.

"Can you at least manage some bright light?" asks Tinya.

"Yeah, that's no problem. Why?"

"Shady, judging by your last attack, I would say Lobo's eyes are susceptible to sudden changes in light, right?"

"Hmmmmm, yes. Wait, I see what you mean...." smiles Shady.

"Would one of you tell me what th'Hell you're talkin' about??" asks Faust angrily as he watches Lobo get closer and closer.

"Just follow my lead, Faust...."

Once again, she phases through the floor, coming up behind the still-cursing Lobo.

"Now, Shady! Hit him!" she cries.

Immediately a cloud of darkness covers Lobo's face.

"Awww, c'mon!! This trick didn't work th' last time, either! Can't you fraggin' bitches think up somethin' new???"

Again, Tinya's voice rings out. "Now, Faust!"

The sorcerer conjures up a ball of intense light and sends it directly into Lobo's face. At the same time, Shadow Lass removes the dark energy from his eyes. As his vision clears, the Czarnian's eyes are assaulted by the intense energy of Faust's magic, blinding him and sending him reeling backwards.

"AARGH!!!! I can't see!!!!" he yells, tripping over Tinya's outstretched leg.

Just as Lobo is about to hit the floor, Tinya touches it, making that section of it immaterial and sending Lobo crashing through the cellar below.

"It worked!"

Suddenly, there is a commotion at the door and a squad of armored warriors pushes through the crowd. One of them remembers the two Legionnaires from their landing earlier that day.

"Look! It's the two from the landing port! The two that got away! Get them!"

The men surge forward, trampling the bar's patrons in their pursuit of the two women.

"What??? Talk about ungrateful! Shady, I'm really starting to think these guys deserve whatever Lobo dishes out!"

"Agreed. Besides, once the Symbol is out of here, maybe he'll calm down, too! Let's go!"

"Hey, don't I get a say in this?" asks Faust peevishly.

"Of course. You can either come with us, or stay here with...them," replies Tasmia with a smile.

Faust looks in the direction she is pointing and sees the warriors closing in fast, weapons raised.

"So, uh, when do we leave?"

"Right now!"

As Shadow Lass covers their escape with darkness, the three heroes dash out a back door. Once outside, the women use their Legion flight rings to take to the sky while Faust joins them after performing a simple spell of duplication to mimic the rings' abilities.

"That's a handy power you have there, Shadow Lady," says Faust.

"It is more than just 'handy', my friend. It is an honor that has been handed down to me from all the past Shadow Champions of my planet, Talok VIII."

"Really? You mean your ancestors had the same power?" he asks thoughtfully.

"Yes, to one degree or another."

"Hmmmm.... So I guess you could say you're like a 'Child of Darkness', then, huh?"

"Yes, I suppose you could put it that way."

"What are you getting at, Faust?" interrupts Tinya. "What's your interest in Shady's powers?"

"Oh, nothing. Just curious. C'mon, let's get to my rendezvous point and head back to Earth. I think the Baron would love to see you two...."

The two Legionnaires glance nervously at each other. Neither of them could say if their uneasiness is due to Faust's suddenly congenial attitude, their inevitable meeting with Baron Winters...or both.

  Chapter Thirteen

Paradise Island. The name alone conjures up images of beauty and tranquility. Located somewhere in Earth's Mediterranean Sea, hidden from view by a mystical barrier, the island has been the scene of many battles and equally as many miracles. However, its one true claim to fame is the fact that it is the home of a race of female warriors called Amazons, and the birthplace of the greatest of them all, the Princess Diana, Wonder Woman.

"We are here."

Queen Projectra steps out of Raven's SoulSelf, more than a little relieved. Although its inherent teleportation abilities certainly saved them time, the trip was far from comforting. Before them stands the Capitol City of Themyscira, its tall, marble towers reaching for the darkened sky.

"So we are," notes Projectra. "It's been a long time since I was last here. It's still as beautiful as I remember it, even in this gathering darkness."

"You've been here before?" asks Raven, a bit surprised.

"Yes, Raven. In my role as Princess of Orando, I've had many dealings with royalty from all over the galaxy. I've had opportunity to visit the capital city of Paradise Island in the past, although a representative for the Amazons was sent to Orando for my coronation as Queen. In fact, from what I've heard, it has been many years since Queen Troia has left the solitude of Paradise Island for any reason."

"Did you say 'Queen Troia'??" asks an obviously startled Raven

"Yes, the Queen of the Amazons here on Paradise Island. Do you know her?"

"I-I'm not sure...perhaps."

"Well, it's possible. After all, the Amazons are a race of immortals!"

"Yes, but the Troia I knew was not an immortal," replies Raven thoughtfully. "In fact, she was one of the most human women I've ever known...."

"Well, there's only one way to find out, I suppose. Let's head for the city...."

"HALT!"

The two turn at the sound of the harsh command, finding themselves facing a squad of spear-wielding women dressed in armor. One of them, a tall woman, her breastplate gleaming in the moonlight, juts her weapon menacingly at the two of them.

"None may set foot upon the island without permission! By command of Troia, Queen of the Amazons and Goddess of the Stars, you are ordered to come with us!"

Drawing herself up regally, Queen Projectra throws back her cloak and steps forward. Raven stands back, impressed at how quickly and easily Projectra's demeanor can change from teammate to ruler.

"I am Queen Projectra of the planet Orando. Your queen is known to me, as I am to her. My friend and I have come only to speak with her, not to intrude upon the serenity of your beautiful island. Lower your weapons, good warriors, and bring us to her so that we may conclude our business here as speedily as possible."

"Silence!" The warrior's voice booms, causing even Projectra to start. "The Queen's orders are explicit! NO visitors are allowed upon our shores for any reason! Now, follow us or feel the tips of our spears!"

The two heroines exchange a glance, and then walk solemnly over to the warriors, each knowing that battle would serve them nothing at this point. As they are marched towards the city, Raven leans close to Projectra and whispers in her ear.

"Now I know the answer to your question."

"What question?" asks Jeckie quietly.

"The Troia I knew could never be as cold or demanding as this Queen they speak of."

** LLL **

Meanwhile, on the other side of the city, the vampire named Dagon, who is sometimes called Nightrider, has also arrived on the island.

"Whooooaaaaaaa.... Lil' Ling and that Faust guy may be good at the hocus-pocus stuff, but they've got a lot to learn about creature comforts! I knew I shouldn't let them zap me...."

"There's the invader! And it's a...it's a...MAN!!!"

Another squad of Amazons, exactly like those Projectra and Raven faced, begin running through the sand towards Dagon, shouting at him. As they get closer, he hears them yelling for his head and it takes him all of a second to realize their intentions.

"Hey, freeze it! I come in peace, you stupid meat!"

His protests fall on deaf ears as the warriors continue to advance on him.

"Defiler! No man alive may set foot upon the island! You have doomed us all!"

A spear swings in a deadly arc, almost cutting Dagon in two, but a second before contact, Dagon's body becomes smoke and the spear passes harmlessly through him. The female warriors stop still, awed by the transformation, giving the vampire a chance to defend himself.

"First of all, I'm not technically alive, which is why Baron Gloom chose me for this particular location! My being on your precious island won't affect your immortality at all!"

Two undead fists connect with two female jaws, sending both warriors to the ground.

"And second, I've spent a lot of my un-life tryin' to be a good little vampire, so I really object to your calling me names!"

Standing his ground, he thrusts his right hand towards the darkened sky above. Immediately, a horde of vermin answers his silent call, rushing towards the women.

"Great Hera! He commands the beasts!" cries the lead warrior. Though they fight valiantly, the warriors realize they are outnumbered and retreat.

"Hurry, my sisters! Return to the city, that we may inform Her Majesty of what has happened!"

As he watches them run off, Dagon's shoulders fall slightly. Teleporting to the island has taken more out of him than he would like to admit.

"Huh. That wasn't so hard. And I always heard the Amazons were a tough bunch!"

Shaking the suddenly resurfacing memories from his head, Dagon changes into a huge bat and flies towards the city off in the distance.

** LLL **

Queen Troia of Themyscira sits upon her throne, her gaze steady and unyielding as the two uninvited visitors are brought into the luxurious throne room. As they are escorted in, Raven stops and gasps. She is visibly shaken as she stares at the woman sitting upon the throne.

"Trigon's bones...."

"Raven? What is it?" asks Jeckie.

"It...It is her! It's Donna Troy, my old teammate!"

If the queen recognizes her onetime friend, she gives no indication of it. She merely lowers her head in greeting and beckons them closer to her. She takes a moment to inspect the two, pausing slightly as her eyes fall upon the glowing form of Raven, then turns to her guards.

"These are the women who have violated the sanctity of our island, Phillipus?" she asks imperiously.

"Yes, my Queen," replies the Captain of the Guard. "They were found not far from here by one of our patrols."

"Hmph. I'm surprised, Queen Projectra, that you would see fit to show such utter disregard for my laws in such a manner. I had thought more of you."

"Queen Troia, I would not have come here unannounced if it were not a matter of utmost urgency. My friend and I are on a mission to ask for your assistance. We seek the lasso of Princess Diana...."

At the mention of her dead sister, Troia's eyes grow wide.

"How...DARE...you?!?" she asks, her hands curling into fists as she rises slowly from the throne. Despite herself, Projectra takes a step back as she sees the fiery rage in Troia's face.

"How dare you speak of my sister?! It is forbidden for anyone from your world to speak her holy name! For that alone, I could have you beheaded!"

Raven steps forward then, removing the cowl from her face. She looks up pleadingly at her former friend with tears in her eyes.

"Donna, what has happened to you? Please, tell me. I can feel your rage and pain as if it were a tidal wave, threatening to consume you! Let me help you ease that pain."

Time itself seems to stop as Queen Troia stares at the glowing woman before her. Projectra waits anxiously, watching Troia carefully, ready to defend her newfound friend if she must. For a moment, the Queen of the Amazons falters, closing her eyes and raising a trembling hand to her temple. Her jaw tightens and she takes a deep breath. Then, she regains her regal bearing, squares her shoulders and looks disdainfully at the woman called Raven.

"I do not know what pain you're speaking of, woman, nor do I know who this 'Donna' is that you speak of. I am Troia, Queen of the Amazons, and it is my decree that you both be sent to the Medusa's lair, never to be seen again!"

Raven gasps and recoils as if dealt a physical blow. Projectra's eyes narrow as her thoughts race through her mind, trying fervently to recollect something she learned on her last visit to this place. Finally, she remembers and decides on a course of action that could well mean her death.

"Wait!" she cries. "In the name of Hera, Queen of Olympus, and Artemis, Goddess-Mother of the Amazons, I, Queen Projectra of Orando, issue a challenge of combat!"

The guards stop dead in their tracks, shocked at the audacity of this woman. Troia gazes at Projectra, a mixture of anger and respect on her face.

"You're good, Projectra, very good. The challenge you issued, calling upon our two most revered Goddesses, cannot be ignored. I am bound by ancient law to abide by it and give you the chance to fight for your freedom."

Silently, Projectra nods, her face a steely mask of determination.

"Still," Troia continues, "the law does not require that I answer the challenge myself, merely that I choose a champion to face you in the Coliseum."

The queen points to two warriors standing at the door.

"Guards! Take them to the Coliseum and see to it that Artemis is summoned for combat in the Coliseum!"

Immediately, the two women are hustled out of the throne room as a large winged shape watches from the shadows.

** LLL **

Hours later, Queen Projectra stands in the middle of the great Coliseum of Themyscira, dressed in armor with a sword and shield at her feet. The viewing stands are finally full, and she knows that soon the battle will begin. Looking up, she sees Queen Troia take her seat, flanked by Phillipus and a guarded Raven.

"So much like my own world of Orando," she thinks, looking around her at the throngs of women clamoring for her death. "May the Gods help us."

Then, the blaring of trumpets sounds the arrival of her opponent. A golden gate at the other side of the arena opens, revealing a tall, muscular woman. She strides confidentially forward, silver armor shining in the torchlight, her auburn hair pulled back into a ponytail that falls almost to her knees. Reaching the center of the arena, Artemis stops and salutes Projectra by pressing a closed fist to her chest.

"I bear no malice towards you, Queen Projectra, but I must do as the Queen Troia commands."

"I understand," replies Jeckie, returning the salute.

Suddenly, the crowd goes silent as their queen stands and raises her hand. She waits a moment, staring at the two warriors below, then drops her hand quickly, signaling the beginning of the contest. Immediately, Artemis goes on the offense, swinging her sword in a downward arc towards Projectra's head. However, the queen parries with her own sword, blocking the blow. Again, Artemis attacks, and again Projectra holds her opponent's weapon at bay. The Amazon crouches, sword in hand, as she reassesses her enemy.

"You are a skilled swordswoman, Queen Projectra."

"I am a warrior queen of Orando, Artemis, not some ineffectual figurehead. I think you will find that I am more than up to your challenge!" replies Jeckie watching Artemis warily.

The two women circle each other, neither giving the other an easy opening. Finally, Artemis sees her chance and lays into Projectra with a series of devastatingly fast blows. Although she manages to deflect most of them, some of them connect, clanging off the legionnaire's armor. The sheer strength behind the blows knocks her to the ground. Sweating and breathless, Projectra looks into the eyes of her foe.

"Go ahead, Artemis. Finish me."

Artemis looks at the proud, defiant woman at her feet and, with a simple nod, raises her sword above her head.

In the stands, Raven makes a last, desperate attempt to reach her former teammate.

"Donna, you must stop this!"

"Silence, woman!" commands Phillipus.

Suddenly, a great winged beast flies down out of the dark sky, knocking Phillipus to the ground.

"If you're gonna make a move, Glow Girl, now's the time!" it says in a gravelly voice.

As her guards stand momentarily shocked at the demonic thing before them, Raven breaks free, her shackled hands reaching for Queen Troia. The guards quickly recover and attempt to stop their charge, but are blocked by the beast which now transforms into a pale-skinned young man, dressed in a long, leather coat.

"Sorry, meat, but fellow Titans are off-limits!"

With a wide sweep of his arm, Dagon knocks the two warriors aside just as Raven's hands reach the startled Troia. As glowing fingertips touch the queen's temples, both women gasp. Raven finds a resistance she never expected from her friend, an almost alien resistance, and momentarily falters. There is something very wrong here, and suddenly, she knows this is a battle she cannot afford to lose, not if she values her friends' lives. Although her opponent is much stronger than she anticipated, she will not abandon her friends, either old or new. With a newfound resolve, Raven fights back, forcing the unfamiliar-yet-familiar psyche of Queen Troia to allow her access.

Meanwhile, on the battlefield, the commotion in the Queen's box has momentarily distracted Artemis. With a sweep of her leg, Projectra knocks her opponent to the ground. Cursing, Artemis quickly recovers, leaping up and preparing to counter a physical attack. However, she instead finds herself surrounded by demons and Hellfire. Everywhere she turns, Artemis is met by horrible, scowling demons with various weapons of torture and battle. Standing off to the side, Projectra watches as the Amazon's face hardens at her imaginary foes. But then, she is startled as Artemis closes her eyes, takes a deep breath and walks calmly towards her!

"Do you think I'm a fool, Projectra? I know of your powers. Besides, I have been to Hell and fought against true demons. Good as you are, your constructs cannot compare to the real thing!"

"Very well then, Artemis. Let's end this."

Once again, the two women clash, swords and shields clanging through the night air.

Above, Dagon continues to hold off advancing Amazons warriors that seek to aid their queen.

"Hey, Glow Girl, you wanna put it into hyperspeed? These sardines are comin' outta everywhere!" he yells, using a golden flagpole as a battering ram to knock a group of Amazons off the platform.

Suddenly, Raven and Troia both scream, a wrenching, anguished sound that comes from the depths of their very souls.

"Whoa! Okay, okay!" says a startled Dagon, "I'm sorry I brought it up!"

A dark cloud seems to ooze from Troia's body, billowing overhead. As Troia collapses, Raven catches her, although she, herself, is barely conscious. For a moment, there is a sound like a thunderclap, causing everyone to cease their hostilities, including Projectra and Artemis, as they watch the spectacle unfolding in the queen's viewing box. The dark cloud coalesces into the form of a pale-skinned woman, with long dark hair. She is dressed in a crimson gown, with pointed epaulets on the shoulders and a plunging neckline. The woman looks down at the assembled Amazons, then at Raven and laughs a deep, frightening laugh.

"You cannot hope to stand against me, human! I am the Dark Angel! For centuries, I was imprisoned, but now I am free, and I shall have my vengeance on Donna Troy!"

She reaches for Troia, her long fingers like a cat's claws reaching for a mouse. Nearby, Dagon begins to morph into his bat-shape, joining the revived Phillipus and her guards in defense of their ruler. In the arena below, Projectra readies an illusion and Artemis hefts her sword, both realizing the threat to the Queen. Raven sits on the floor, Troia's head in her lap, preparing to give her all in defense of her friend.

"R-Raven? Is that you?"

The voice is weak, barely audible. Raven smiles as she looks down into the clear, blue eyes of Donna Troy and brushes a stray hair from the queen's forehead.

"Yes, Donna, it's me. It's been a long time."

Sitting up, Donna smiles back. "Too long. Raven, Dark Angel...."

"Shhhhh. I know. And I swear on the souls of Azarath that I will not let her harm you again."

With a gentle caress of Donna's cheek, Raven stands and faces Dark Angel, who is plowing through Dagon, the Amazons, and Projectra's illusions with ease. Eyes closed, the former Titan squares her shoulders and is about to call forth her SoulSelf when she feels a gentle yet firm hand take hers. Opening her eyes, she sees a weak Troia standing beside her.

"Donna, no! You are too weak!"

"Please, Raven, let me help you. If for nothing else, I owe the bitch for what she's done to me!"

A moment of silence as she stares into the cold, steely gaze of Troia, and Raven's decision is made. She grasps her friend's hand and calls forth her SoulSelf, adding the strength of Donna's soul to her own. Suddenly, a giant, glowing bird appears in front of them, crackling with energy. But, for the first time, Raven's SoulSelf has taken on a slightly different form than usual, that of an eagle, wings wide and claws outstretched. Quickly, it wraps itself around and envelops the approaching Dark Angel, ignoring her curses and screams. Then, in a blinding flash, both sorceress and SoulSelf are gone. The Amazons cheer as Raven and Troia slump exhaustedly to the ground.

** LLL **

Later, Projectra, Raven and Dagon are gathered in Queen Troia's throne room as she sits again upon her throne with Phillipus at her side.

"I can't thank you all enough for what you've done. If it weren't for you, I'd still be under Dark Angel's influence."

"We're just glad you're back to normal, Queen Troia," offers Projectra.

"Please, Queen Projectra, call me Troia."

The Queen of Orando smiles. "Fine, but only if you call me Projectra."

"Oh, please! Turn down the glucose, willya?"

Donna returns her smile, then turns her attention to her vampiric former teammate.

"Dagon, still as lovable as ever, I see," she says, smiling warmly. Standing, she descends the few steps leading to the throne, with Phillipus following protectively, and walks over to Dagon, giving him a hug.

"I know you were the one who gave Raven the chance to reach me, Dagon. Thank you."

The vampire scratches his head and shuffles his feet nervously.

"Yeah, well, I might've been through a lot over the years, but I still take care of my friends," he says, glancing over at Raven, "and that includes anybody that was ever a Titan."

"Thank you, Dagon," is Raven's only reply. She still feels uncomfortable with this vampire, yet she cannot deny that she also finds him somewhat...intriguing.

"I hate to ask this of you in you're weakened condition, Troia," interrupts Projectra, "but it is imperative that we return to Earth with an item you have in your possession."

"Diana's lasso," Troia says, trying to hide the sadness in her voice. "Yes, Phillipus told me about your earlier request."

"Donna, I know how the memories of your sister pain you, but it really is important that we return with her magic lasso," says Raven.

"I know, Raven, and considering that Diana died defending the kind of threat you're facing, I think she'd want you to have it. That's why I've already sent for it. I just wish I was strong enough to join you."

"Hey, hey, hey!!" interjects Dagon. "Did you say magic lasso? As in Wonder Woman's Magic Lasso? That's the same thing Baron Winters sent me here for!"

"Baron Winters?!? You know him?" asks Projectra, startled.

"Unfortunately," returns Dagon with a smirk.

"Hmmm. It seems the Baron is determined to involve himself in this, whether we like it or not. Perhaps, then, it's time for all of us to pool our resources, no matter how distasteful it may be."

"You mean there's more than just you an' Glow Girl involved in this?" asks Dagon, slapping his hand to his forehead. "Damn, I have gotta learn to stop flappin' my lips!"

nbsp;nbsp;Chapter Fourteen

Few places in the solar system have the reputation that the planet Rimbor has. It is said that any vice or deviant behavior imaginable can be found here. Under different circumstances, Timber Wolf might find some small bit of enjoyment here. At the moment, however, he was too busy fighting for his life.

"Y'know, Val, hanging out with you used to be a lot more fun... And a lot less dangerous!"

"Oh, yeah?" smiled Karate Kid as his foot slammed into the skull of an approaching shadowdrone. "I assume you're forgetting about the time you dragged me to that brothel on Celsius-Eight?"

"Hey," replied Timber Wolf innocently, "how was I supposed to know you'd refuse the 'favors' of the girls and get us into trouble?"

As his friend vaulted above the swarming crowd of drones, Karate Kid grinned to himself. He couldn't help it. Not long ago, he'd thought that Brin Londo, his best friend, had been either killed or converted into one of the very beings they now battled. Despite the overwhelming odds they faced, the joy Val felt at being reunited with him, and the easy camaraderie they shared, knew no bounds.

Not far away, the young Japanese named Ling was uneasy. Not because of the battle, although that would be excuse enough, but because of the banter between his friend, Timber Wolf, and the newcomer. Ling had heard Timber Wolf call him 'Val'. Who was he? Obviously a friend of Brin's, but how friendly, exactly? And why hadn't he been converted into one of these shadowdrones as Timber Wolf's other friends in the Legion had been? Ling felt his anger and suspicion growing, and instinctively fought to calm himself. His Lady Mysa, were she still alive, would be disappointed in him for having these feelings of resentment towards one he hardly knew, and yet, Timber Wolf was his friend. And wasn't one obligated to protect one's friends? "Surely, Lady Mysa would not condemn me for that!" he told himself. "Yet there is something about this 'Val', something that reminds me of dear, gentle Christian...."

The thought of his deceased friend saddened him greatly, causing his concentration to slip and his mystic shield to falter. A shadowdrone grabbed hold of his white robe, threatening to infect Ling with its darkness, but a hastily spoken spell of brilliance flashed in the thing's face, forcing it to release him. Quickly, Ling reinforced his shield, cursing himself for his lapse, as more drones crowded around him. Still, as the battle continued and fatigue began to overtake him, his mind started to drift back to the events of the last few days.

It wasn't all that long ago that the two of them had left Baron Winters' house on Earth, instructed to locate the Tarot of Xanadu. Ling remembered the deep satisfaction he felt at continuing with the mission entrusted to him by the Lady Mysa, although he felt uneasy with the new ally that the Baron had introduced them to. There was something about the man called Faust that Ling didn't trust. The man seemed...empty, somehow. He was glad, however, that he was chosen to accompany Brin, rather than the vampire, Dagon. With a magical assist from Faust, the two men were soon transported to this horrible, sinful planet called Rimbor.

As Timber Wolf had suggested, Ling remained quiet as the two of them roamed the dirty, unpleasant streets of the nearest city. Brin had mentioned the city's name to him, but he just didn't care. Ling had no intentions whatsoever of returning here. After hours of walking, during which Ling thought they had entered every seedy tavern on the planet, the two men stopped to rest. Suddenly, the door to a nearby shop burst open and a man dressed in a tattered white tunic ran out, with a horde of shadowdrones following him. It was then that Ling learned the other man's name, as Timber Wolf called out "Val!!" with a weird mixture of shock and elation, before grabbing Ling around the waist and launching the two of them into battle at the man's side.

"Ling! Watch out, kid!"

Timber Wolf's shout brought the young sorcerer out of his revelry, just in time to be shoved out of the way of a shadowdrone's clawing grip. A strong shoulder slammed into his abdomen, knocking the air out of his lungs and carrying his lean body across the cobbled street and into a pile of trash. After picking a soft, rotten fruit off his head, Ling looked down at his waist, ready to thank Timber Wolf for saving him. He was surprised to see the smiling face of Karate Kid looking up at him, arms still locked around Ling's waist and his bruised back covered with trash.

"Better be more careful, friend. Now is not a good time to zone out like that!"

Val quickly rose to his feet and extended a hand to his young ally. Ling grabbed his hand, pulling himself out of the heap and brushing off his stained robes. Then, a dark blur of motion behind Karate Kid's back caused the young sorcerer to shove Val behind him.

"Look out!" he shouted before a flash of light erupted from his hand, chasing off the advancing shadowdrone. Satisfied that the immediate threat was over, he turned around to find Val standing behind him, grinning as he rubbed his backside.

"Thanks! Guess we're even now, huh?" he smiled.

Ling returned the smile. Perhaps this man wasn't so bad, after all.

"Uh, guys?? Some help over here?!?"

Hearing Timber Wolf's plea, the two young men turned to find their friend growling obscenities as he desperately tried to fight off the horde of dark creatures while avoiding their touch. Immediately, the two of them ran to help, using their own skills and power to slowly wedge their way through the demons.

"Grife! These things don't know when to stop!"

"Oh, calm down, Timber Wolf! You've been complaining that we haven't hung out together enough lately!" chided Karate Kid as he dodged a blow from one of the drones.

"Ha ha. Very funny, Kid! Some small talk over a mug of Silverale was more what I had in mind, though!" replied Timber Wolf, somersaulting over another group of adversaries.

Suddenly, there was a burst of howling wind, which struck the group of shadowdrones, slamming most of them backwards. Karate Kid and Ling looked upward, towards the source of the blast, to see a figure dressed in red flying through the air, a swirling vortex of wind where his legs should be.

"Who is that?!?" asked Ling.

"I don't know," replied Val, "but at least he seems to be on our side!"

"They. Are. Dispersed. You. May. Proceed. Talia," the new arrival stated robotically.

As if in answer, a small group burst from hiding. One of them, a darkly exotic woman, took the lead, ordering the others.

"Well done, Tornado. Continue to keep the demons off-balance! You others, strike at will! I will see to the Legionnaires' safety!"

A tall, armored woman gave her a distasteful glance. "Careful, Talia! Nakia of the Zamarons may have agreed to aid you, but I will not be spoken to like a common wench!"

"Will you two just stop it already?" said the red-headed man as he snaked his way through the drones, pinning their arms as he entwined them with his own body. "I'm sick of all the talking! Let's just get this done so I can get back to my wife!"

A pale woman with raven-black hair stepped forward from a hole in the very air, joining the fray. "Your wife is gone, Ralph", she said. "You know that. All that's left is an urn with her ashes...."

"SHUT UP!!" came his reply.

"Nightshade!" yelled Talia, "You were told to stay back!"

"I can't just stand by while these things run rampant across the planet, Talia! This is the third group you've encountered today! Don't worry; I'll be fine!"

Nearby, Karate Kid, Ling and Timber Wolf took advantage of the brief respite created by their newly arrived allies.

"Who the bloody Nass are those guys?" asked Brin weakly as he struggled to catch his breath.

"I don't know, Wolf, but I'll take whatever help we can get right now. It's a miracle the three of us have been able to avoid their touch as long as we have!"

"I agree, Karate Kid," added Ling. "Surely our good fortune cannot last much longer. Perhaps we should retrieve the Tarot while we may and continue on our path, away from this decadent planet!"

"Tarot? What tarot?" asked Val.

"The Tarot of Xanadu. Baron Winters of Earth has sent us to retrieve it."

"Did you say Baron Winters?? Brin, please tell me you're not working for that guy!"

"Uh, well, actually....yeah, we are," Timber Wolf answered sheepishly. "Why? What d'you know about him?"

"Nothing good," answered Val with a scowl.

Suddenly, there was an awful, unearthly scream from the battle nearby. The three young men turned to see the woman called Nightshade shrieking at the top of her lungs as she towered above friends and enemies alike. At her feet, the shadowdrones huddled around her, being sucked into her body like water into a sponge.

"Grife!! What th'Hell happened to her?!?"

"She has become a giantess!" replied Ling, shock evident on his face.

"Guys, I think the situation just got a lot worse..." said Val.

Nearby, Talia was cursing her teammate.

"Damn the woman! I told her to stay back! Her power is derived from the Land of the Nightshades, making her even more susceptible to these demons' power!"

"Y'think we can forego the history lesson and concentrate on stopping her, Tal?" shouted Ralph Dibny, his elastic body contorted in various positions to avoid both the remaining shadowdrones' touch as well as Nightshade's rampage. "Her thrashing about is only making our job harder!"

"Tornado!" shouted Nakia, shoving a group of drones away from her former teammate with a psionic blast. "Run an analysis on Nightshade and determine current weaknesses!"

"Processing," answered the robot.

"Not necessary, Tornado!" Talia asserted, casting an angry glance towards Nakia. "She has been infused with the darkness of these shadowbeings. The only thing that will stop her now is light, like that which powers my rifle. Unfortunately, at her size, my weapon will do little good against her."

"Perhaps we might be of assistance."

"And who are you, stripling? Surely not a Legionnaire!" scoffed the Daughter of the Demon.

"No, I am not," replied Ling, his face a bit downcast. "But one does not need to walk the path in the company of others in order to know the way."

"I have no time for games and riddles, young one!" spat Talia, grabbing Ling's robe. "Can you help us or not?"

Karate Kid stepped forward, deliberately cutting off Timber Wolf, who was just about to defend his young companion. Brin fumed silently. There were times, like now, when he hated Val's calm, rational approach. Even though it worked more often than not, it was sometimes difficult for Brin to ease out of "battle mode" as easily as his best friend did, especially when he felt that one of his friends was threatened.

"Our friend here is a sorcerer," offered Karate Kid, one hand reassuringly squeezing Ling's shoulder as the other gently removed Talia's grip from Ling's person. "His magics might be able to increase the solar power of your weapon enough to stop the woman's rampage."

For a moment, Talia considered the proposal. She looked at Ling intently, making the young Asian uncomfortable under the scrutiny of her dark, haunted eyes. With the sounds of battle ringing in his hypersensitive ears, Timber Wolf bristled at waiting for her decision. Then, with a dismissive wave of her hand, she turned from them.

"It would not work. Even if he could do as you say, the power surge would destroy the energy cells and burn the rifle out before it could even affect her. Now, if you will excuse me, I have other things to attend to..."

"Now can I?" Brin whispered in Val's ear.

"Go ahead," he grinned.

"Hey!" shouted Timber Wolf, striding angrily after the surprised Talia. "Listen, Talia, in case you've forgotten, it's your buddy that's the problem here! Your little group came stickin' your noses where they don't belong, and made a bad situation worse! Now, my friend is offering to help you out, and unless I'm wrong, which I'm not, you have no other options! Why don't you drop the stuck-up attitude and let him try?"

For long seconds, the two stared at each other, neither giving an inch. A low growl began to rumble deep within Timber Wolf's chest. Without meaning to, he bared his fangs. Talia smiled.

"Still the same vulgar savage, eh, Timber Wolf? Very well. You may try. But I warn you; make good use of my generosity. You will not get a second chance."

She glanced back at Nightshade, who was desperately trying to unwind Ralph Dibny from her hands while she swatted at Red Tornado. Below, Nakia was chopping at the giant's ankles with her sword. Almost all of the shadowdrones were gone now, absorbed into Nightshade, the mission given them by their master all but forgotten by the intoxicating draw of the Nightshade energies.

"Fine," Brin answered angrily. "Let's get started."

"In a moment." Talia touched a button on the headset she wore. "Tornado. I need you with me."

The three men watched as the Red Tornado momentarily hesitated in mid-air, looked down at his mistress and immediately came to a landing next to her.

"Nice pet," smirked Brin. Talia was too busy opening Tornado's chest cavity to notice. She began pulling out wires and circuits as the other three looked on.

"We have to use Tornado's energy cells to augment the rifle's. It is the only way this will work. Leave the magician with me. You two must help my associates."

Brin and Val looked at each other, than at Ling. Brin knelt down and whispered to his friend.

"You sure you're up to this, pal? I mean, I know you were still an apprentice on the Sorcerer's World..."

Ling smiled. "I have been studying the book you 'appropriated' for me from Stefanacci's Museum, friend Timber Wolf. I will be fine."

Brin returned the smile and tousled Ling's hair, much to the young sorcerer's annoyance. Then, he and Karate Kid joined the battle against Nightshade.

"You know her?"

"We met once, years ago," Brin replied. "It wasn't fun. That's why I hate leaving Ling with her. She's always up to something."

Easily reading the look on his friend's face, Val tried to assuage Timber Wolf's fears. "That kid's as brave as they come, Brin. He'll be fine."

"Yeah, I guess, but dammit, Val, he's so sprockin' young for this stuff!"

"Unh-huh. About the same age as we were when we joined the Legion, right?" Val answered with a smirk.

"Y'know," Timber Wolf sarcastically replied, "there are times when I really can't stand you, Armorr..."

Before Karate Kid could reply, the two friends were upon the few remaining shadowdrones, vaulting over their heads to join Rimbor's self-appointed protectors. Along with the Zamaron woman Nakia, the Legionnaires attempted to stem the tide of shadowdrones merging with the giant Nightshade. Although they struggled valiantly, it is a task they could not hope to accomplish. As his heel connected sharply with the chin of one of the drones, Karate Kid realized the futility of their efforts.

"It's no use! We can't effectively stop them without allowing them to grab us!"

"Fight on, Legionnaire! This planet is under the protection of Nakia, First of the Zamarons! I will not be...unnhh....defeated by scum such as these!"

Val glanced at the armored woman's face. Despite her determination, he could see the fatigue in her eyes, every psionic blast an effort, now. Suddenly, a wall of red and black slithered between the three heroes and the advancing mob. Before any of them could react, Ralph Dibny stretched his body taut and flexed, sending the demons flying backwards as if shot from a slingshot.

"Ralph! No!" cried Nakia, but it was too late. Although his effort had bought them a few seconds time, he was inevitably touched by the drones, sending their dark energies into him. As his body resumed its normal shape, his mind was assaulted by dark, fearful images. His old friends from the Justice League, somehow still alive and doing the bidding of the demons' master. His beloved wife Sue, killed before his eyes, then resurrected as a shadowdrone. He, himself, turned to evil and smiling wickedly as he killed countless innocents with Gingold-induced madness.

"Get away from him! Now!"

Talia's warning was followed by a wide beam of intense light, which struck Nightshade dead center. As Val, Brin and Nakia ran for cover, the beam covered the giantess, sweeping downwards once to strike Ralph Dibny as well. There was a cacophony of screeching, otherworldly squeals as shadowdrones erupted from Nightshade's form and fell through the air, twitching as they struck the ground and converted to their former, humanoid forms. For long moments the barrage of light continued, Talia struggling to hold onto the rifle which threatened to vibrate out of her arms while beside her, Ling prayed silently to his gods as his hands glowed with mystic light, augmenting the weapon's solar energy.

Finally, the rifle's charge was spent, and Talia slumped to her knees, her strength spent as Ling rushed to her side. Nearby, Nightshade had resumed her normal form and was caught by Karate Kid as she, too, succumbed to her ordeal. Nakia knelt beside Dibny, cradling his head in a manner that was more caring than one would expect from the warrior woman and Brin tried to assist as many of the fallen citizens as he could. He cursed as he realized that most of them had died from the fall.

Later, after the survivors have been tended to, Karate Kid approached the weary Zamaron.

"Nakia, how's Dibny and Nightshade?"

"I do not know," she replied. "They both appear to be deep in shock. Talia says they may never revive. She is making arrangements to get them proper medical attention."

"I'm sorry. It's obvious how much he means to you."

"Is it? Not to him. The only lover he knows is a wisp of memory. His heart belongs only to a ghost."

Her lip trembled slightly before she cleared her throat and raised her watery eyes to meet Val's.

"What of your friends? What will you do now? You are welcome to join our band and fight to preserve what is left of this planet..."

"Thanks, but no," he replied. "For some reason, I don't think Brin and Talia would get along very well. Besides, we have an urgent appointment we have to keep with a certain Baron on Earth. Much as I would like to, it appears that I can't avoid it after all."

"Then we will go with you," she offered.

"Again, no. You must stay and take care of your friends and this planet until we can stop this darkness that is spreading. Thank you, though, for the offer."

At that moment, the two were interrupted by Timber Wolf running over to them.

"Hey, Val, if you wanna go back to Earth with us, let's go. Ling's got the spell ready."

Val nodded and smiled at Nakia.

"Safe travels, good warriors," she said.

The two young men walked away, headed for the slowly expanding ball of light that was forming in front of Ling. Karate Kid placed his hand on Brin's shoulder and smiled.

"It's really great to see you, Brin. You had me worried for a while, there."

Timber Wolf returned the smile, his feral teeth glinting eerily in the reflection of the mystic portal.

"You? The calm and cool Karate Kid? Worried? Hah! Never thought I'd see that happen!"

Brin carefully slapped his friend on the back and left his hand there, quietly enjoying the fact that this was the real Karate Kid he felt, and not another one of his recent nightmares.

"C'mon, let's get this deck of cards back to the Baron."

Nearby, Talia watched the three heroes preparing to leave. Slowly, she began to smile.

"Farewell, Timber Wolf," she thought. "I do not know what interest you had in the Tarot of Xanadu, but I am sure I could put it to better use than you."

She gently tapped the pouch hanging from her left hip before snaking her slender hand into it.

"Perhaps I can use it as a bargaining tool, should your enemy actually win this battle of yours. Whatever I decide, it was worth relieving you of it just to imagine the look on your face when you realize that I have your precious cards. Ah, Selina, you would be proud."

Withdrawing her hand from the pouch, her joy turned to outrage when she found herself holding, not the Tarot of Xanadu, but rather a stack of holo-disks.

"What was that?!?" asked Ling upon hearing Talia's scream of rage.

"Ah, I wouldn't worry about it, kid," Brin smiled. "Just Talia's reaction to a little present I left for her. Bloody Nass! After all this time, the woman still thinks she can outsmart me!"

As Karate Kid and Ling looked questioningly at each other, Timber Wolf led them through the portal to Earth and the mysterious Baron Winters.

  Chapter Fifteen

They were, to say the least, an eclectic group. Baron Winters, mysterious mystic advisor, with his faithful leopard, Merlin, at his side. Joining him stood Faust, the soulless practitioner of Black Magic. Shadow Lass, mistress of the dark and champion of her homeworld, Talok VIII. Phantom Girl, brave, smart and resourceful with the ability to make herself and any inanimate object intangible. Raven, an empath from the other-dimensional world of Azarath. Dagon, the haunted vampire also called Nightrider. Queen Projectra and her husband Val Armorr, Karate Kid, both former associates of the Baron, with the scars to show for it. Timber Wolf, given his bestial abilities through super-science. And finally Ling, an apprentice sorcerer sent to save the galaxy by the legendary White Witch.

They stood around a large, wooden table in the Georgetown mansion of Baron Winters. Atop the table sat a grouping of four mystic artifacts from days long gone, gathered together from various worlds by these men and women in the hopes that they can be used to stop the encroaching darkness that seeks to engulf their galaxy.

"In a moment, my Night Force, we shall begin..."

"Stop it, Baron," interjected Karate Kid. "We may be forced to work with you again, but Jeckie and I are not part of your 'Night Force'!"

"Mr. Armorr, your belligerence begins to annoy me," the Baron replied dangerously, his eyes narrowing as Merlin growled beside him. "I have endured it thus far simply out of respect for your wife, but we no longer have the time for such pettiness. It is time to act."

"Then what are we waiting for, Baron?" asked Timber Wolf. He made a mental note to ask Val later about this uncharacteristic anger he was displaying.

"I believe, Timber Wolf, that I am the reason for the delay..."

A tall, hooded figure entered the darkened room, his green robes sweeping the floor behind him. His cloak was fastened with a large gold image of a dragon's head, which glinted in the candlelight along with the jeweled rings that adorned each finger. Beneath his robes, he wore a white tunic, tied in a crisscross fashion across a muscled chest, and green leggings with white boots that stopped just below his knees. Around his waist was a belt consisting of large discs, each joined together by three lengths of golden chains.

For a moment, he stopped at the doorway and took in the assemblage before him. Then, with an audible sigh, he walked proudly to the table.

{No..} thought Shadow Lass. {Talok's Bones, it can't be! But his walk, his manner, the deep treble of his voice! It has to be him!}

As the man reached up and removed his hood, the assembled Legionnaires gasped.

*** LLL ***

In the Castle of Orando, the man-demon called Obsidian anxiously paced the floor.

"Where IS he?!?!" he screamed, throwing his arms into the musty air. The spear clenched in his hand sparked with mystical blue energy as even the attendant shadow-demons cowered in fear. The sound of drums began to beat in the distance. Bum...Bum...BUM!!

"Are you looking for me?" asked a childlike voice.

Obsidian spun on the new arrival. "Where the Hell have you been?!? What're you up to, Klarion??"

Klarion the Witch-Man gave a satisfied smile and continued stroking the back of the were-cat nestled contentedly in his arms. "Whatever are you talking about? Teekl and I have just been out inspecting the grounds. You're not getting paranoid, are you, my friend?"

Obsidian eyed his partner suspiciously.

"You've been missing an awful lot lately, Witch-Man..." he said. "Is there anything I should know?"

"Of course not," Klarion replied dismissively. "My, you are getting paranoid..."

The self-appointed King of Orando tightened his grip on the Spear of Destiny before storming out of the throne room, leaving Klarion to smile wickedly.

**LLL**

In deepest space, seemingly too far away to be affected by the concerns of Earth, a bright green light burned. To most observers, it would appear to be a sun, such is its radiance. Those observers, however, would be shocked to see the ball of flame suddenly undulate, as if in pain, before spitting out a streak of emerald flame that shoots through the starry void of space on its way to the planet Orando.

**LLL**

"Tyroc!"

The hooded man smiled ruefully at Shadow Lass' exclamation. He walked solemnly over to her, his long emerald robes flowing behind him, and took her hand in his.

"No, my friend, not Tyroc. Not anymore. Now and forever, to my eternal pride and my eternal shame, I am the Dragonmage."

"But...I don't understand!" interrupted Phantom Girl. "The last any of us heard from you, you were on your homeworld, Marzal! How did you get here?"

"Not to mention the 'New Look'!" added Timber Wolf.

For a moment, the returning Legionnaire was silent. Then, with a deep sigh, he sat tiredly in a nearby chair. As some of his fellows followed suit, the man once called Tyroc picked absently at the plush, red velvet cushioning. He looked directly into the deep azure pools of Shadow Lass' eyes before beginning his story.

"For those who do not know me, I come from an interdimensional island called Marzal, which means 'New World' in our native language. It is an island that rests on a dimensional faultline, leaving Limbo every two hundred years for a thirty-year period. Through a series of events, I found myself bestowed with the power to alter reality itself through my voice, and became the island's champion, taking the name Tyroc. Eventually, I left Marzal to join the Legion. There, I found fulfillment and...companionship."

Shadow Lass bowed her head as a smile tugged at the corners of her lips and her skin darkened slightly.

"Unfortunately, we soon discovered that by using my vocal powers, I was unintentionally weakening Marzal's ties to reality, returning it to Limbo prematurely. I could not abandon my people and so I returned to Marzal permanently, determined to never again jeopardize the safety of my island home."

"It would seem we have much in common..." offered Raven, ignoring the icy glance given her by Tasmia.

"We can play holo-dating later, Glow Girl. Let the wiz finish his story..."

Now it was Dagon's turn to feel a pair of cool eyes upon him as Dragonmage continued.

"Returning to my world, I discovered that my power had already inflicted damage upon my people. Mystical beasts, once imaginary things in fairy tales used to frighten unruly children, began to appear. The extradimensional demons that we once battled only occasionally now increased in numbers. Winged steeds and dragons flew over the land while tiny elfin creatures stole food from our homes. Because of me and my power, the balance of Marzal had shifted and what had been considered fantasy was now becoming reality."

He paused a moment to clear his throat before continuing.

"As the Champion of my people, it fell to me to correct the wrongs that I, myself, had caused, so I embarked on a quest to find a way to restore Marzal to normal. Over the course of many months I searched, reading ancient tomes, studying religions long forgotten. Then, after many adventures, I met a mage named Bloodwynd, himself an interdimensional traveler. He offered to teach me the ways of magic, but warned me that I might regret my decision if I chose to become his apprentice. In my hubris, I laughed and told him that Marzal's Champion feared nothing!...I was a fool. In the months that followed, I was tutored in mystical arts from a hundred different worlds and dimensions, not all of them pleasant..."

Shadow Lass reached over to gently caress his tightening fist, watching as his knuckles whitened.

"One day Bloodwynd disappeared, leaving me a note saying that he could no longer teach me, that I was too arrogant to fully learn what I needed to know. I was furious. I struck out at everything around me, including the mystic artifacts he had accumulated in his tower home. Suddenly, there was a terrible release of mystical energy which I later learned had spread upon the winds, engulfing the entire island. Now, even the cities and peoples had changed, reverting to hovels and inarticulate man-beasts."

"By the Path...!" whispered Ling, echoing the shock of the others. A single tear flowed from behind the dark emerald hood and trickled down the sorcerer's haunted face. Tasmia reached up and gently brushed it away and received a grateful smile.

"Since then, I have continued my studies alone, finally becoming the man you see before you: the Dragonmage of legend. My former life and name are distant memories to me now, although some I still cherish and hold onto dearly. "

A dark hand reached out to run carefully, seductively, through ebon locks as Karate Kid grabbed hold of Phantom Girl's arm, holding her back.

"But tell us, Ty...er, Dragonmage, how is it you came to be here?" asked Queen Projectra.

"I believe I can answer that, Your Highness," answered Baron Winters, stepping forth from the shadows he had removed himself to. Now that he had returned to the table, no one could really be sure if he had been in the room for Dragonmage's entire story or not. Realizing this made the Baron smile.

"When I ascertained the full extent of the threat we face, I contacted Dragonmage and requested his aid. Knowing his affinity for this dimension, as well as his feelings for his former teammates...well, some of them, anyway...I was reasonably certain he would help."

Shadow Lass stood and embraced her friend and former teammate. "It is good to see you again, Troy. I've missed you."

"And I you, Tasmia," he smiled while across the room, Phantom Girl bristled.

"Listen," Dagon interjected, "I enjoy the history lesson as much as the next guy...Mostly 'cause I've lived most of it...But can we get on with this? I'm dyin' to do some slicin' and dicin' on those shadowthingies!"

"For once, I agree with the bloodsucker. The longer we wait, Baron, the more powerful Obsidian becomes."

"I agree, Faust. Now that the Dragonmage is here, we may begin. Before you all is the Atlantean scroll that was brought to me by Mr. Londo and his friends. It reads:

"And a time shall come, when darkness twofold,
Covers the land, from days of old.
The first shall be vanquished by might and by brain,
But the second must be by blood and by flame.
Two foes must meet, and work as one,
If the evil one shall be undone.
Five items of power must be found,
Then placed together on hallowed ground.
A dragon returns from a faraway land,
And a warrior falls, by a comrade's hand.
Child of Light must embrace the past,
While the Child of Dark shall be the last.
Into place these things must fall,
Else the darkness shall consume ye all..."

An uneasy silence fell across the room as the words of the prophecy echoed in their minds. Then, a look of understanding dawned upon Phantom Girl's beautiful face.

"Is that it, Faust?" she asked, anger rising. "Is that what you meant back on Lythyl when you asked about Shady being a 'Child of Darkness'?"

Faust said nothing, his expression hidden by the dark glasses he wore.

"You think she's destined to die, don't you? Don't you?!?"

"Maybe. Maybe not. It's not up to me," he replied coldly.

"You heartless bastard!!"

"And what about you, Baron?", asked Karate Kid angrily. "Did you know about this? Is this another one of your damn games?"

He took a step forward, but stopped at the sound of a low growl. Slowly, the leopard Merlin padded menacingly in front of his master.

"I suggest you calm down, Mr. Armorr..." said the Baron, an icy danger in his voice.

"And I suggest you call off the cat, Baron..." answered Timber Wolf, moving to stand beside his friend as Projectra did the same.

"Stop this! Are you all mad?!?"

The young sorcerer named Ling thrust himself between them, his eyes, normally as clear as a summer's sky, darkened in anger as white-blue energy crackled around his clenched fists.

"Ling?"

Timber Wolf stared almost in disbelief at the sight of his formerly passive friend's appearance. He knew Ling had ability, but this level of power was something his friend had never displayed before.

"Friend Timber Wolf, I know that you have saved my life many times over since I began this quest that Lady Mysa entrusted to me. For that, I am eternally grateful. However, I stand here listening to you and your friends bicker and wonder why you bothered!"

"Hey, slow the flow, half-pint! You're gonna hemorrhage any nanosecond!"

"I will be fine, vampire, once everyone comes to their senses and resumes their places on the Path! Darkness rages around us, yet all you can do is squabble over your own petty concerns while our lives, and those of our worlds, are forfeit?!? It is no wonder Lady Mysa could not stand to remain amongst you!"

The angry words sting the assembled Legionnaires even as they give Faust and Baron Winters pause. Suddenly, a chilling, evil laugh echoed throughout the room.

"HA HA HA HA!!! Dissention in the ranks, eh? Wonderful!"

The very shadows began to swirl madly about the assembled heroes as a howling wind extinguished the candlelight. Instinctively, they took up defensive positions against this new threat. All of them, that is, save Baron Winters, who crept quickly through a side door with Merlin close behind.

"Whatever you do, don't let the shadows touch you!" yelled Karate Kid, trying to make his voice heard above the shrieking, unearthly maelstrom. Nearby, Dragonmage, Faust and Ling began to recite incantations as Raven manifested her SoulSelf.

Suddenly, the air crackled with mystic energy and drums sounded in the distance. Then, a blinding flash erupted from the middle of the room. FWASH!

Sitting in a lotus position high above the wooden table was a man dressed in black, his hair whipping wildly about his somewhat large head. He smiled wickedly as he calmly stroked the cat nestled in his arms. The drums got louder.

"Hello," he said. "I am Klarion..." Dum Dum DUM! "The Witch-Man," he smiled smugly. "And you...are dead."

There was another bright flash. Seconds later, the room was empty.

  Chapter Sixteen

"Where are we?"

In answer to Phantom Girl's question, a cold wind blew across the open land, bringing with it the heavy smell of sulfur. The sky was an odd mixture of the deepest gray with black and blood red clouds, occasionally split by a spear of lightning. All around them they saw trees that were once lush and green, their once-thriving branches hanging bare and withered. The ground was muddy, scattered with patches of dry, brown grass where a rolling meadow had once covered the earth. The only building within view was a huge, foreboding castle, its dark spires reaching up to the heavens as if begging for redemption. Surrounding it was a moat overflowing with ugly, greenish water, its lapping waves occasionally broken by various kinds of aquatic monstrosities, one of which looked alarmingly Hykranian. Tattered flags along the castle's blackened parapets snapped sharply in the harsh wind, the sound triggering a memory in the back of Queen Projectra's mind.

"...no...it can't be..."

Although his wife was infinitely more familiar with this place than he, still Karate Kid recognized it...or rather, what it once was. As anger and sorrow rose within him, he gathered his wife in his arms and croaked out the name of their former home through clenched teeth.

"Orando."

"Talok's Bones...!" whispered Shadow Lass. Gazing at the scene of desolation all around her, she could not help but fear for her own homeworld, Talok VIII, as a shiver ran up her spine.

Ling stepped forward, looking down at the scattered talismans on the ground at their feet. He knelt down and carefully picked up the Helm of Nabu. Just as his fingers touched the oddly warm metal, something flashed in his mind; something that told him danger was near. The young sorcerer looked up into the turbulent sky and his eyes grew wide. "Look!" he cried.

As the gathered heroes watched, the darkness above them began to move. The black splotches that they mistook to be clouds in the sky separated, becoming tiny specks that dotted the horizon. Then, the specks began to grow in size, becoming streaks of darkness that crisscrossed wildly across the sky. They grew larger and larger until the group realized that the dark forms were actually an army of innumerable shadowdrones flying towards them. In seconds, the heroes would be inundated.

"Move!" shouted Karate Kid.

The Legionnaires attempted to use their flight rings but, to their horror, found that the rings would not respond to their commands. Above them, they began to hear the unearthly screaming of the demons as they got closer and closer.

"Our flight rings aren't responding!" Phantom Girl cried, watching the shadows loom ever closer.

"Something in this damnable place must be interfering with them!" answered Shadow Lass.

"Follow me! Quickly!" commanded Projectra, already running towards the castle looming in the distance. The others immediately followed, trying to keep their footing on the muddy, slippery ground.

"Wait! The talismans!" cried Ling, racing back for the forgotten artifacts.

"No time, kid! C'mon!" Timber Wolf grabbed Ling around the waist and kept running as Dragonmage and Faust attempted to set up mystic shielding behind them. Dagon threw up his arms and transformed himself into a huge man-bat and took to the sky. Instead of flying away from the oncoming shadows, however, he flew directly towards them.

"Azar, no! Dagon, stop!"

At Raven's cry, Dagon turned his head slightly and flashed her a toothy smile before flying off.

"Raven! He's already too far away! Come on!" shouted Phantom Girl, tugging on the former Titan's arm.

"No! Titans do not abandon each other! I must help him!"

With that, she pulled away from Tinya and, wrapping herself in her SoulSelf, vanished in a cloud of smoke and light.

"Grife! Shady! Raven's gone after Dagon!"

Shadow Lass heard the despair in her friend's voice and stopped mid-flight, her mind and emotions torn. Finally, she made her decision.

"We can't do anything for them now, Tinya! We're vastly outnumbered and our flight rings aren't working! We have to keep moving!"

For a moment, Phantom Girl stood her ground, the look on her face one of stubborn determination.

"Tinya, please...!" Tasmia pleaded, staring into Tinya's eyes as her voice cracked slightly. "I can't lose you, too..."

With one last glance skyward, Phantom Girl joined the rest of them, her bottom lip trembling as they ran towards the castle.

** LLL **

Inside the castle's throne room, two shadowdrones stood before their master, Obsidian. The blackness of his face was split wide with a bright, evil smile.

"Tell me again..." he said.

One of the drones, the one with tiny dots of a starfield shining through the darkness of his body, stepped forward and repeated his message in a haunted voice.

"The heroes of Earth are here, master. Your servants, who have already retrieved all but one of the talismans you require, are currently pursuing them. The last one will soon be yours."

"Excellent!" the villain exulted. "Looks like the Witch-Man did his job after all!" The man once known as Todd Rice danced and whirled around his usurped throne, shaking his fists into the stale, dank air. "You see, dear old Dad? I've won! They can't possibly hope to defeat me here! Thanks to Klarion's magic and the power of the Spear of Destiny, my power is unbeatable! Even my shadowdrones are growing in strength! Soon, I'll control the universe, and then we'll see who laughs at who!"

The other drone, with twin antennae atop his head, stepped forward. "Master? What are your orders for the heroes? After we have recovered the last talisman, what are we to do with them?"

Obsidian's smile faded immediately. His eyes narrowed as he looked at the two sternly, as if they were suddenly a ridiculous bother.

"Do I have to tell you everything?!?" he shouted. "I want you to kill them, of course!"

Obsidian gestured angrily in the drone's direction, and the darkness constricted about him. The drone stood immobile, offering no resistance save for a slight choking sound before falling to the ground. Then the darkness slithered away, leaving the cold, dark husk of Chameleon Boy's body lying on the throne room floor.

"Get him out of here" Obsidian said absently.

The other shadowdrone quickly picked up his fellow and left the throne room.

** LLL **

An emerald flame flew through space, headed towards the planet Orando. Although much closer than when it had begun its journey, it was still far from its destination. Its thoughts were simple.

{Must stop it. Faster.}

A burst of energy and its speed increased.

{Soon. Very soon...}

** LLL **

In Wintersgate Manor on Earth, a wild-haired man walked through the house, calling impatiently in a singsong voice.

"Barronnnnn! Where arrrre youuu??"

Suddenly, the were-cat nestled in his arms raised its head, the hairs on its neck bristling.

"What is it, Teekl? What do you sense?"

The cat jumped from his arms, becoming a humanoid, demonlike cat as it did so. A low growl rumbled in Teekl's throat as she crouched protectively in front of her master, fangs bared.

"Baron?" the intruder asked, smiling. "Don't tell me you've changed your mind! Not after all my preparations!"

A door opened, and the leopard Merlin crept silently, threateningly, into the room. Teekl's growl deepened and was returned with one of equal ferocity by Merlin. Drums sounded somewhere in the distance as Baron Winters followed his feline companion into the room, leaving a shadowy form to wait beyond the door.

"Calm yourself, Merlin," he said. "We wouldn't want to upset our guests, unexpected as they may be." He turned and looked directly at Teekl, his tone threatening. "Besides, you know how difficult it is to get were-cat blood out of the carpet..."

Teekl's eyes flared, but long, slender fingers on her neck held her back.

"Klarion..." Bum Bum BUM! the distant drums sounded. "Why are you here?"

"I came to let you know that all is going according to plan, Baron," the mage replied darkly. He did not take kindly to anyone threatening his pet, veiled though the threat may be. "I've sent your 'Night Force' to Orando."

"Good. Then soon, all should be in place."

The Baron poured two glasses of hundred-year-old Brandy and handed one to Klarion. In the shadows, the mysterious figure opened the door slightly and shuddered.

** LLL **

"In here!"

At Projectra's instruction, they gathered in one of the castle's many hidden alcoves, gasping and breathing heavily after their race through the meadow.

"Grife!" swore Timber Wolf. "Those things're fast! Hey! Where's Dagon?"

"Shhhh!"

After a disapproving glance at Brin, Queen Projectra joined Faust at the alcove's opening. Faust's fingers began making intricate circles in the air as Projectra added her own power to erect a mystic shield of illusion to throw off their pursuers. No one spoke until seconds later when the shadowdrones flew past them, screeching eerily.

"That was close..." sighed Karate Kid, wiping the perspiration from his forehead.

"No friggin' kidding, Pajama Boy! State the obvious much?"

"Faust, I've about had it with you and your attitude!"

"Oooohh, I'm scared! I told the Baron that you were a waste!"

"Watch it, Faust...."

"You too, Wolfie? What, your buddy can't fight his own battles?"

"That's enough!"

The three men turned at the sound of Projectra's commanding voice.

"We don't have the time for this bickering! That illusion won't keep the shadowdemons at bay for long and your arguing will only bring them faster!"

"Projectra's right," added Shadow Lass. "We've managed to outrun them for now, but we've also boxed ourselves into a corner. As soon as we leave this alcove, the drones will be upon us again..."

Off to the side, no one noticed Phantom Girl intently studying the walls.

"You're right, both of you. I've been acting like a real hothead. Truce, Faust?"

With a dismissive huff, the mage ignored Karate Kid's offered hand and turned his back.

"What a jerk..." Timber Wolf whispered before turning away from the fuming sorcerer. "Now, can somebody tell me what happened to Dagon...and Raven?"

"The vampire is...gone, friend Brin," answered Ling quietly. "As is the one called Raven. They went to face the demon horde." His hands trembled as he glided them over the gleaming metal of Nabu's Helm, staring at his own reflection.

"Bloody Nass!" Timber Wolf's growled, his fist striking the wall in anger and frustration. The force of his blow left a deep hole in the ancient brickwork.

"Brin! Stop!"

Grabbing his friend from behind, Val pulled him tightly against his chest. "We'll avenge them, my friend," he whispered. "I swear it."

"We can't stay here," Dragonmage said to Shadow Lass, as if she were the only one worth speaking to. "We have to find another way."

"I think I have an idea..." interjected Phantom Girl, her hand still tracing the bricks in the wall. "Jeckie, can you figure out what's on the other side of this wall?"

For long moments, the queen studied the wall, rubbing her forehead as she attempted to dredge up old memories of blueprints and her own personal explorations of the caverns beneath the castle. Finally, she took a deep breath. "Yes. I believe it's one of the old dungeons. I remember exploring them before my father closed most of them off, years ago. Why?"

"Watch..."

Phantom Girl concentrated, placing both her hands upon the bricks. Suddenly, the section of wall that she touched became immaterial.

"Whoa! Where'd you learn to do that, P.G.?!?"

"It's a new ability I picked up, Brin. Comes in pretty handy, doesn't it?" she smiled.

"We can give you a cookie later, lady. Now let's get the Hell out of here..." interrupted Faust as he pushed past the others and literally walked through the wall. Ignoring the remark, the remaining Night Force followed.

"I can't see a thing."

"Perhaps I may be of assistance, Lady Tinya," offered Ling. Although he had not known her long, Tinya Wazzo's purity of spirit and strength of character had quickly endeared her to the young magician. In many ways, she reminded him of his beloved Christian. Ling concentrated and a ball of flame erupted from the palm of his outstretched hand.

"Looks like that spellbook from Stefanacci's Museum has come in pretty handy, huh pal?" chided Timber Wolf. Ling smiled up warmly at him.

The group found themselves inside one of many cells lining a long, dark corridor. Rats skittered across their feet, trying to escape these newly arrived intruders. Skeletons rested in dark corners, their names and crimes long forgotten. Even the heroes' tiniest step caused a small cloud of dust and ash to rise.

"Nice place you've got here, princess..."

Queen Projectra stifled an urge to respond to Faust's taunt. "Brin, can you get us through these bars?" she asked.

"Sure, Jeckie. Hold on a second..."

With a surge of strength, Timber Wolf ripped a section of the plastisteel bars out of the ground. Ling felt a swell of pride as he watched his friend toss the metallic bars off to the side. Then, directed by Shadow Lass, he and Phantom Girl stepped through the new opening Brin had created and began using the mystic ball of flame to light the torches that lined the dungeon walls.

"Thank you, my friends," offered Projectra. "Now, if my memory serves, down this corridor is another hallway that will lead us to a secret passage which opens into the throne room itself."

"Good idea, love," agreed Val. "If Obsidian's anywhere in the castle, that's where he'll be..."

"You think so, Karate Kid?"

Suddenly, a horde of shadowdrones sprung up from every darkened corner, completely surrounding the group. They stalked and swirled madly around the surprised heroes as the booming voice of Obsidian continued.

"Did you really think you could sneak up on me? Idiots! Darkness is everywhere, and I control the darkness! I AM the darkness, while all of you are nothing! Nothing but...dead!"

As the heroes prepared for what could be their last stand, the circling shadowdrones edged closer and closer.

  Chapter Seventeen

In a dungeon on the occupied planet of Orando, a horde of shadowdrones closed in on what remained of Baron Winters' Night Force. Karate Kid and Queen Projectra clasped hands, prepared to fight to the death for their world, yet determined to be together no matter what the outcome. The soulless sorcerer called Faust stood coolly, seemingly uncaring, as he waited for the exact moment to bring his dark magics to bear. Phantom Girl and Shadow Lass stood back-to-back, fierce anger and determination etched on their beautiful faces as they noticed the familiar symbols on some of the shadowdrones' chests. Next to Tasmia was Tyroc, now called Dragonmage, wanting desperately to hold her before the end, but knowing he could not as he cursed himself for abandoning his people to aid those of this dimension yet again. Nearby, Timber Wolf stood protectively in front of the apprentice sorcerer Ling, a low growl rumbling in his chest as he prepared to die before letting the demons get to his young friend. Behind him, Ling prayed to his gods to aid them all in this, their darkest hour, as he held tightly onto the Helm of Nabu.

"Stop."

Suddenly, the drones stopped and stood completely still. Then, they parted, forming an opening in their midst as the villainous Obsidian appeared at the far end of the room. He laughed wickedly as he approached the cornered heroes, the four captured talismans following behind him in a field of darkness. In his hand, he held the Spear of Destiny.

"You people are pathetic," he hissed, darting to and fro around his captives as he entered and emerged from the wealth of shadows surrounding them in the darkened room. "Did you really think you could defeat me? I've waited thousands of years to get my revenge and prove my power! I watched and waited as you defeated that pompous fool, Darkseid! I made a pact with the Witch-Man to increase my power! I plotted and planned, removing those of you that had any hope of stopping me! With the exception of one or two already under my power, you are the least the Legion has to offer! You are nothing!!"

"Nothing, monster?" said Queen Projectra, defiantly. "I think not. We are your destruction!"

The villain laughed a horrible, evil laugh and approached Projectra. Immediately, Val was in front of her, facing Obsidian. His voice was edged with an unspoken danger as he warned, "Get away from my wife."

"Your wife, hmmm?" Obsidian smiled. His eyes roved Val Armorr's body, unashamedly ogling the muscles on the barechested young man before him. "We can change that. Tell me, Kid, what would you do for me if I let you live a little longer, hmmm?"

Karate Kid's face reddened as he fought his revulsion at the obvious implication of Obsidian's offer. Another face flashed in his mind, the smiling face of Nik, his lover in the twentieth century. Although nothing like his bond with Jeckie, he cared for Nik deeply and they had shared much during that time. He was alone in a distant time, with nothing familiar to soothe him until he met Nik. The two became fast friends and, in time, much more. It was Val's first and only time with another man, and the thought of that memory being perverted by this...thing in front of him made Val Armorr angry. He spat in the villain's face. The spittle glistened in the firelight before it was swallowed up into the darkness that comprised Obsidian's form. Once again, the villain smiled.

"Not a good idea, pal. I was offering to let you make the right decision and serve me willingly, but there are other ways to get what I want..."

He reached over and grabbed the former Element Lad by the hair and kissed him deeply. Jan Arrah offered no resistance as Obsidian's hands roamed his body. Phantom Girl turned her head, stifling a sob as Timber Wolf bared his fangs. Then, in one horrifying move, Obsidian broke off the kiss and savagely twisted the Legionnaire's head, breaking his neck.

"NOOOO!" cried Val, lunging for the madman with Timber Wolf right behind him. Obsidian stood, waiting for them to reach him so that his touch could add them to his army of drones. However, just as his fingers were about to brush their chests, he was slammed backward as Ling, Faust and Dragonmage combined their abilities to strike him with a blast of bright light.

In seconds, the heroes were upon him, taking advantage of the shadowdrones' confusion. Ling and Dragonmage erected a mystic dome while the others battered the surprised Obsidian with fists, debris and magic.

"Get...AWAY...from...ME!!!"

A burst of dark energy sent the heroes flying, slamming them into a far wall.

"What are you waiting for, you idiots?!? Kill them!!!" he howled madly at his slaves. As if awakened from a trance, the shadowdrones bombarded the mystic shield, battering the two sorcerers who were desperately trying to sustain it against the super-powered demons' onslaught. Then, out of nowhere, Obsidian emerged from the shadows beneath the sorcerers' feet, ready to strike.

"My Lady Mysa, forgive me..." whispered Ling. As he prayed to his teacher for guidance, the young sorcerer felt a whispering in the back of his mind. It was a feeling that he had felt many times since he had begun the quest that his Lady had bequeathed to him.

Then, suddenly, an emerald flame burst through the dungeon's ceiling.

"Todd, stop!"

A giant green hand swatted Obsidian away from his intended victims as the green fire alighted on the stone floor and coalesced into the form of a man. Obsidian slammed into the wall and slumped to the floor. He looked up at the flaming man and smiled broadly.

"Well, hello...father..." he said. "What brings you here?"

The flaming green man once known as Alan Scott, Sentinel, fumed silently at his son's sarcastic tone. He looked down at his son and held out his hand.

"Give me the Spear, Todd."

Obsidian laughed an insane, evil laugh.

"You must be joking! Do you think I'm an idiot, old man? Wait a minute...Yes, you do, don't you? You always did...!"

Sentinel's eyes narrowed and a column of green flame struck Obsidian's chest.

"ARRGH!!!"

"I'll say it once more, Todd. Give me the Spear of Destiny. The Sentinels of Magic made a pact long ago to guard against its use and even though I've since returned to the Starheart, I intend to see that pact upheld. It's too dangerous for anyone to wield. You've already used it; even in the Starheart, I could feel its power. You have to be stopped before it drives you mad!"

Obsidian smiled broadly and laughed. "Too late for that, Daddy Dearest!"

SHWOOOM!!

A blast of pure darkness struck Sentinel squarely in the chest, sending him reeling backwards. In seconds, Sentinel regained his footing, just in time to find a grinning Obsidian standing before him, the four captured talismans swirling behind his head in a field of darkness. With a gesture, a snakelike strand of blackness twirled around the discarded Spear of Destiny and brought it back to Obsidian's hand. Then, in a voice that reminded Alan Scott too easily of the son he once knew and loved, Obsidian spoke.

"You can't beat me, father. I'm too powerful now. With these mystic artifacts adding to my power, I'm unbeatable. There's no one to stand in my way, anymore. The JSA is gone. The Legion is crushed. And you're all that's left of the Sentinels of Magic. A situation that is about to be rectified, as it should have been a long time ago..."

He lifted the Spear of Destiny above his head as Sentinel fought desperately to rise, conflicting emotions churning within him. Suddenly, there was an unsteady yet determined voice behind him.

"You're wrong."

Obsidian whirled. Behind him, Ling was standing with his arms raised above his head. His long hair and robes whipped about him, caught up in a vortex of magical blue energy that danced and swirled about his body. In his hands, he held the Helm of Nabu.

"You are wrong, Evil One. Alan Scott is not the only Sentinel of Magic to survive into this century. Nor is he, in fact, the last member of the legendary Justice Society. That honor now falls to...Dr. Fate!"

Ling slid the Helm down onto his head and immediately there was an explosion of blue energy, forcing all the shadowdrones back and threatening to tear apart Obsidian himself. Only a hastily erected shield of darkness saved him. As Sentinel and the other members of the Night Force watched, Ling's tattered robes mended and were transformed. A broad, gilded collar adorned the snow-white tunic that was gathered at the waist by a gold belt. His legs were bare except for calf-high sectioned boots of gold. Armlets of the same metal were wrapped around his biceps and forearms. A cloak of white billowed behind him.

"For days, the Helm of Nabu has called to me and now, finally, I have answered. End this now, Todd Rice. You cannot hope to prevail on this path you have chosen."

Obsidian leered at this new foe, hatred gleaming in his eyes.

"You, little sorcerer, are a fool!"

Wild whips of darkness erupted from the ground, attacking both Fate and Sentinel, their thorny tips biting into cloth and flesh. At the same time, the shadowdrones renewed their attack on the other heroes. Taking advantage of their distraction, Obsidian reached behind him, tapping into the mystic power of the talismans that still floated nearby. With one gesture, he let loose a blast of dark energy that enveloped all of them, bursting through the very wall of the dungeon itself.

  Chapter Eighteen

Queen Projectra of Orando struggled to stay conscious. Only seconds ago, she and the other members of Baron Winters' so-called Night Force had been blasted through the very walls of her castle by the villainous Obsidian. Now, she tried to quiet the ringing in her ears as her husband, Karate Kid, knelt beside her.

"Jeckie! Are you alright?" he asked.

"Y-Yes, Val...I'm fine," she answered, hoping he wouldn't see how badly she truly felt. Her vision was blurry and there was a pounding in her head. {Probably a concussion...}, she thought. Brushing a strand of silver-white hair from her eyes, she raised her head and attempted to clear her vision enough so that she could ascertain their location. All around them were stone and marble...houses?...with symbols etched into the doors. There were also some kind of small towers...no, pillars...jutting up from the dry ground. Cursing herself, she shook her head again until finally her vision began to clear. She took another look and her eyes widened in shock.

"By my father...! Val, do you know where we are??"

"Yes, my love, I do", he answered solemnly, his voice barely above a whisper. "We're in the royal cemetery."

Nearby, the battle continued. Obsidian was reaching for a stunned and shaken Shadow Lass, his hand a large, elongated shadow. Her sole protector, Dragonmage, was attempting to hold the villain at bay, desperately hurling bolts of mystic energy which were easily deflected by the Spear of Destiny in Obsidian's other hand. Not far away, the newly reborn Dr. Fate struggled to get to his feet with Timber Wolf's help. The sorcerer Faust lay on the ground, apparently unconscious, and Phantom Girl was nowhere to be seen.

"Get away from her, demon! She is under my protection!" warned Dragonmage, beads of perspiration forming on his brow. Obsidian merely laughed at him.

"You're strong, magician, I'll give you that! But I embody all the vast power of the Shadowlands, as well as these talismans you sought to keep from me!" He gestured at the mystic artifacts that hung in a sphere of energy at his back. "My power is limitless!"

"Is it, Todd? Let's see..."

A blast of green flame struck Obsidian from behind, hurling him to the ground. Raising his head, he saw the flaming form of his father, Alan Scott, called Sentinel, floating above him.

"Damn you, father! You won't win this time! I won't let you!"

Thrusting his hand into the sphere that hovered obediently above him, Obsidian gestured at his father and let loose a blast of ebon energy that slammed into Sentinel, sending him careening into Dragonmage as well. Enraged, he then turned towards the castle and shouted angrily at the gathered shadowdrones.

"Get her!" he shouted, pointing at the dazed Shadow Lass. At their master's command, numerous shadowdrones poured out of the gaping hole in the castle wall and swarmed over the surprised Legionnaire, covering her completely. She didn't even have time to scream before she was consumed by their cold touch.

"NO!!" cried Phantom Girl, phasing up out of the ground where she had sought shelter from the explosion seconds earlier. In a blinding rage, she grabbed Obsidian's arm, trying to disrupt his link with the talismans. The villain yanked his arm away as numerous barbed, shadowy whips exploded from his very body and attacked her. With a scream of pain, Tinya slumped to the ground, unconscious.

"Leave her alone, Evil One!" shouted the transformed Ling, his voice sounding deeper and most definitely angry. A bolt of his own blue-white magic flew towards Phantom Girl's attacker. Timber Wolf followed, snarling dangerously as his fangs glistened in the reflected glow of Ling's magic. Their attack was stopped, however, when a shield of darkness formed around their foe, deflecting both Ling's magic and Timber Wolf's charge.

Watching his friend fall, Ling was shocked at what he saw. Although the Lord of Order who now inhabited Ling's body would not allow him to betray his emotions, the young sorcerer was deeply afraid for his friend. Seeing Brin's bestial appearance after the battle at the Substitutes' Clubhouse had shocked him, but Ling could see that Brin remained the caring, honorable man he had come to know. Now, as Brin rolled into a crouch and prepared to strike again, it appeared there was little or nothing left of that man. Now, there was only beast. Ling desperately hoped that the change was a result of the almost palpable evil in the air and the sight of his injured teammates, rather than something more permanent. Obsidian's laughter brought Ling's thoughts back to the battle as Obsidian surveyed the fallen group.

"When will you all learn?" he laughed wildly. "There is nothing you can do! I'm invincible! Just admit it and surrender!"

"Never, monster! Not while we live!"

Turning towards the woman's voice, he found Queen Projectra and Karate Kid waiting. Val, obviously bruised and beaten, was in his battle stance, while the Queen stood beside him. A long, rusted sword, taken from a royal crypt, was held tightly in her hands.

"That's enough, Obsidian," warned Val darkly. "You've desecrated our home, enslaved our world and..." The words caught in his throat. "And you've killed our friends. It stops here."

Obsidian smirked.

"How touching," he hissed. "The Royal Couple, defiant to the end. You fools!"

Tendrils of darkness erupted from his hand, heading straight for the two lovers. They had both known that their abilities would probably not be enough against this foe, but they had to try. They would never give up. They were the rulers of Orando and, moreover, they were Legionnaires. As the tendrils whipped wildly towards them, they gave each other one last, loving glance, finding comfort and resolution in each other's eyes. Then, suddenly, Val felt something hard and cold strike his waist from behind and he found himself swept off the ground and flying through the darkened sky, grasped tightly around the waist by one of Dagon's strong arms. Jeckie, he was relieved to see, was held in the other.

"Dagon!" the Queen exclaimed, "You're alive!"

The vampire tried to hide his smile. "Well, not technically speaking, your Highness, but I'm still kicking and clawing, if that's what you mean! You didn't think those things had an angel's chance in Hell against Glow Girl and me, did'ja?"

"But Raven..." Jeckie asked as they landed behind a particularly large monolith, not far from where Obsidian raged at his failure. "Where is she?"

Raven's SoulSelf appeared beside them, and the glowing woman stepped tiredly out of it. "Right here, Projectra." The two Legionnaires were surprised not only by her haggard appearance, but also at the sight of the young man who stepped forward with her. His light brown hair was pulled back in a ponytail, and he wore tattered robes of deep purple, trimmed in black symbols of some kind. Around his waist was a bright red sash, held in place by a red gemstone that was embedded in an ornately carved clasp of gold. Although the goatee he sported made him look older, Val could tell by his body language that the stranger was around the same age as he and his wife, perhaps even a bit younger.

"Raven, it is good to see you again, but who is this with you?"

The young man stepped forward and smiled earnestly.

"Your Highness," he said, taking her hand and bowing deeply, "I am Christian of Xerox, known as the Sorcerer's World, and I am at your service." Rising, he turned to Val and extended his hand. "Well met, Your Excellency."

"And to you, " Val returned. "Tell us, Christian, how did you come to Orando?"

The young mage's eyes lowered and his voice was tinged with a deep sorrow as he spoke.

"I was apprenticed to Lady Mysa, whom you know...forgive me, knew as the White Witch. When the damnable shadows invaded our home, Lady Mysa dispatched a fellow apprentice to guard certain mystic talismans from their master."

"You mean Ling?" asked Raven. Christian's handsome face immediately brightened.

"Yes! You know of him?" he asked excitedly. "Please, tell me where he is!"

"Relax, friend," said Karate Kid, placing his strong hands on the man's shoulders to calm him. "He's not far, and we will bring you to him, but please finish telling us about Mysa first."

Christian felt ashamed at his outburst.

"Of course. Forgive me, but it has been too long since last we saw each other and Ling is very...special to me. He is naïve in many ways, and I worry for him. When last we saw each other, Lady Mysa was sending him away just as the demons broke through our fellows' defenses and found us. We struggled fiercely, but it was no use. They overwhelmed us and Milady Mysa...perished during the battle."

Projectra bit her lip, pulling her husband closer as Val's fists closed and shook at the news of their friend's fate. Raven rubbed her forehead and trembled slightly as she sought to control the emotions that flooded her soul. Dagon was surprised to find himself fighting the urge to comfort her. After a moment, Christian took a deep breath and continued.

"I...I carried her body away, swearing that I would be damned before I let those horrors have her, and used the ancient tunnels to hide us until I could decide what to do. When they had finished their dark business, most of them left our world. It was then that I buried my beloved teacher and used a scrying spell to find the madman that sent the demons to Xerox. The spell led me here to Orando, where I have been watching them, waiting for the chance to take my revenge upon them and their master. When I saw these two struggling against the horde, I knew my opportunity had arrived."

"If it wasn't for Christian's aid," Raven continued, "Dagon and I would have both been defeated by the shadows."

"She's right," added Dagon, "We'd be on the Dark Side right now if he didn't help us out."

"Then we thank you, Christian," Projectra said gratefully. She eased away from Val's side and stood proudly facing the battle, which now raged anew. "Now come, my friends. Let us rejoin Christian with his friend Ling as we also reclaim my world!"

** LLL **

Shadow Lass was suffocating on darkness. It clutched at her throat, invaded her lungs and even her very thoughts swirled in a cacophony of despair and regret.

{So much death...Too much to bear! I should have saved them! I am their Champion! My world, my people, my cousin.... My love...}

"You are right, Tasmia Mallor!" came a voice, haunting and accusing. "You have failed us!"

{W-Who...?}

"Are you that much of a disappointment that you do not recognize us?" asked another. "We, your ancestors, who have fulfilled the role of Champion with honor for centuries?"

"How could she recognize us?" asked another, familiar voice. "Honor and tradition is obviously something she knows little of."

{Talok's Bones! M-Mother?"

"How dare you speak the name! You are not worthy! You have failed miserably in your role as Champion! As Protector! As family and as lover!"

{NO!} she cried out. {No, I didn't! There was nothing I could do!}

"Lies!" the voices chorused, her mother's strongest of all. "All lies! You should have been there, to protect your world, not carrying on with offworlders! You offer nothing but excuses to salve your own conscience! You are a failure and an embarrassment, and as such do not deserve to live!"

From out of the darkness advanced all the Champions of Talok VIII before her, led by the ghost of her own mother.

** LLL **

Near the castle, the remaining heroes, including the revived Faust, fought valiantly. Sentinel and Dr. Fate engaged Obsidian in a battle of wills, the three of them floating in the ozone-laden air, while the others fought the transformed Legionnaires on the ground. Only Dragonmage resisted the battle, his concern for the thrashing Shadow Lass keeping him from the fight as he knelt beside her inside a protective mystic dome.

"Dragonbreath, get over here! We need you!" shouted Faust.

"I cannot leave her like this!" the man answered, his eyes never leaving the moaning woman beside him.

"Hells take you, man!" cursed Faust, his magic deflecting the former Porcupine Pete's shadow-spines that buzzed throughout the air like deadly bees. "You can't do anything for her! Only Fate can do that now!"

"Fate?" asked Dragonmage, turning to look at the struggling mage outside the dome. "Is that true? Can he save her?"

"Out of all of us, he's the only one who might succeed! His magic is now entwined with Ling's, who is a latent Warlock of the White Order! I felt it as soon as we met! Only his White Healing Magic has a chance!"

Dragonmage nodded solemnly and turned to Timber Wolf, who was busy dodging the shadowdrones that were once his comrades.

"Brin!" he shouted, "You must get Fate!"

The bestial Legionnaire merely glanced at him and growled before hurling a headstone at a transformed Color Kid.

"Damn it, Timber Wolf! Tasmia needs you! Look at her!"

Still, he ignored him.

"Brin, look at her!"

Timber Wolf looked over at the moaning, thrashing woman on the ground and paused. He knew her, cared for her. She was his teammate, his friend. In his mind, a fog seemed to lift and he found himself repulsed by the thoughts and feelings he had been having minutes ago.

{Grife, what have I become?!? }

He threw back his head and howled as if in pain. It was an awful, sorrowful sound. Then, without further hesitation, he leapt high into the air, grabbing onto one of the dead tree branches and propelling himself through the air towards another. After two more branches, he was as close as he could get without his flight ring.

"Ling!" he growled, "Shady needs you! Now!"

For a moment, the nascent sorcerer hesitated, torn between the battle at hand and his loyalty to his friend. Sensing Ling's confusion, Sentinel nodded towards the ground. None of them noticed the sound of drums building in the distance.

"Go on, Fate. Take care of the girl. I'll handle my son."

Fate nodded his thanks and flew off towards the ground as a childlike voice rang out.

"Wrong, old man! I'll handle your son!"

The distant drums reached their crescendo and Klarion...Bum Bum BUM!...the Witch-Man appeared, a wicked, satisfied smile upon his face and Teekl cradled in his arm.

"Klarion, you loony magician! What are you talking about?!?" demanded Obsidian.

"I'm talking about our pact, 'partner'! It's over! Thanks to Baron Winters, I am now the ruler of Witch-World! And, as such, I no longer need you or your pathetic plans for this dimension!"

ZZZWAKKK!!

A bolt of scarlet-green energy struck Obsidian and forced him to the ground.

"Tag!" said the traitor. "You're it!"

  Chapter Nineteen

Tasmia Mallor was tired. She had battled the shades of her ancestors for what seemed an eternity, all the while listening to them tell her what a failure she was. Although she had defeated all of them, she knew she could not stand much more.

"Weary, daughter?" The voice was cold, demeaning. "Of course you are. Only a true Champion of Talok could endure such as this without weakening. As always, you disappoint me."

"Enough," Tasmia said tiredly. She was hunched over; barely able to stand on fatigued legs, holding tightly to a shadowsword that she knew she should not be able to manifest.

"What did you say?" the spirit demanded, her eyes flaring.

"I said 'enough'!" Tasmia spat. "You are not my mother, just as these demons were not my ancestors! I realize that now. It is some trick of Obsidian's, meant to undermine my confidence! It has to be!"

"You are pathetic!" the vision roared, slapping Tasmia across her face. "You believe this to be a trick, refusing to admit that you are unworthy of the honor placed upon you! And, I am sure, any half-breed progeny you would produce by that Daxamite would prove just as disappointing!"

Another blow knocked Shadow Lass off her unsteady feet as the shade turned disdainfully away. Then, the ghost looked back over her shoulder and continued. "In all good conscience, daughter, I cannot allow that to happen."

She came to stand above the exhausted Legionnaire. "However much you have failed in your duties, I will not. Our line stops here, with your death, before more embarrassment can be heaped upon us. Truly, my daughter, you are the worst of us and the last of us!"

A long spear of shadows materialized in her hand, and Tasmia saw her mother advancing, the weapon raised above her head for a killing blow. Try as she might, Shadow Lass could not rise to defend herself.

** LLL **

The new Dr. Fate stared at Shadow Lass as her blackened body twisted and turned on the rubble-strewn ground at his feet. According to his fellow sorcerer, the mysterious Faust, he was the only mage present who had a chance of saving her from being assimilated into Obsidian's shadowdrones. Dragonmage suggested that only her own affinity for the Darkworlds had kept her from being subsumed this long. Now, as he watched her writhing below him, Ling wished he knew what to do.

"What are you waiting for, Fate?!?" demanded Dragonmage, looking up in anger at the helmeted man as he knelt beside his former teammate, cradling her head in his lap.

"I-I am not sure...what I should do...!" answered Ling, his voice slightly panicked. Only minutes ago, he reveled in the feeling of power that flowed through his new, more manly body. Now, he cursed himself for not seeing past the momentary euphoria to the huge responsibilities that came with it. He wished, at least, that Timber Wolf had not run off to fight the shadows again. "I am trying to determine the proper incantation to set her on the path to recovery..."

The former Tyroc laid Tasmia's head gently on the ground and stood facing Fate, anger flashing in his eyes.

"She is in pain!" he shouted. "Faust tells me that you are some kind of White Mage, that only you can rescue her from the darkness that has consumed the others!" Suddenly, he grabbed Ling by the shoulders and held him tightly, his eyes boring into those behind the golden Helm of Nabu. "Now, Faust may have many faults," he hissed, "but I know he is a sorcerer of no mean skill. If he says you can do it, then I believe him. Now, do it!!"

Suddenly, the air became charged and the eyes behind the helmet seemed to change, growing older, darker. When next he spoke, Ling's young, unsure voice was replaced by one of aged confidence.

"You would do well to unhand me, Marzalian. You address Fate now, not some young pup!" the voice said dangerously. Shocked by the sudden change, Dragonmage released his shoulders and stared somewhat in awe at the man before him. "The boy is new to my power and as such, is hesitant, but your companion will be saved. I shall free her. You have the word of Fate."

"Perhaps, my friend, you wouldn't mind a bit of assistance?"

At the sound of the strong, youthful voice, the two men turned to see a man standing behind them, framed by a bright, glowing bird. Dr. Fate's eyes softened and when he spoke it was with a voice that was younger and softer.

"C-Christian??"

** LLL **

Raven watched from inside her SoulSelf as Christian was greeted by his old friend and, she suspected, lover. Then, the glowing bird-shaped portal collapsed upon itself and transported her a bit further from the battle. If she was going to continue with her plan, she needed whatever calm she could find on this dark, dead world. Besides, the further away from Faust she could get the better. Something about him irritated her empathic senses. It was as if the man had no soul!

She emerged near an ancient crypt, one of the largest she could see. Its heavy iron doors hung loosely upon their hinges. With one last glance at the battleground, she lowered her head and walked resignedly into the crypt.

** LLL **

As Klarion floated smugly overhead, Obsidian lay on the charred and barren ground, staring angrily up at his former partner.

"You'll regret this, Witch-Man!" Todd said. His voice was low and dangerous, dripping with ice. "I knew you were up to something, but I never guessed you'd be fool enough to cross me now!"

"And why not now?" Klarion asked, the were-cat, Teekl, purring contentedly in his arms. "Do you think you're unbeatable? Do you really think you stand a chance without my help??"

Nearby, Dagon the vampire alighted with Karate Kid and Queen Projectra. He smiled widely, showing his bright, sharp fangs.

"C'mon, while they're doin' the machismo samba!" he whispered. "This is our chance to slice an' dice 'em!"

"Hush, Dagon!" Projectra quietly chastised. "With Klarion's arrival, it would be better not to rush into combat until we are certain of where he stands in this. For now, we follow Sentinel's lead..."

"Jeckie's right," agreed Val. "Maybe we should give Brin and the others a hand first."

Dagon looked about and could see Timber Wolf and Faust desperately trying to hold off the swirling shadowdrones that threatened to overwhelm them. Although he wanted to help Brin, Dagon knew that he would soon lose his chance.

"It's your funeral," he sighed before disappearing into a puff of smoke.

Before Jeckie could respond, Val put a finger to his lips and motioned for her to listen to the warring villains.

"You're right, Klarion," Obsidian grinned. "I did need your help in the beginning." Unseen by the Witch-Man, his fingers slowly elongated, inching closer and closer to the forgotten Spear of Destiny, lying barely within his reach. "You were the one who tracked down the talismans, suggested I use them to amplify my power. You were my advisor to life in this century. And you know what? I never even thanked you!"

The ground beneath the new emperor of Witch-World suddenly erupted as long, black tentacles reached up and wrapped themselves around both him and Teekl, who growled loudly in the crushing embrace. Immediately, Sentinel attempted to free them, although he was not quite sure that he should.

"Idiot!!" crowed Obsidian, raising the Spear towards the blackened sky and flying upwards. "The Spear of Destiny increases my power a hundredfold! Between that and these artifacts, I'm invincible!"

"Ahh, clot it, darkmeat! You've got somethin' I need, and I'm takin' it right now!"

From out of the dank, heavy air, Dagon materialized, thrusting his hand into the mystic field that held the precious talismans. His long, pale fingers wrapped around the hilt of the Soultaker sword and he let out a horrifying scream of pain. Obsidian turned on him.

"You fool! Release it!"

"No...w-way...! Gotta get...th' sword! Gotta..."

"Release it, vampire, or your current damnation will seem like a picnic!" Obsidian warned.

Long spikes of solidified shadow erupted from the villain's body and savagely ripped into Dagon's body. Dagon gritted his teeth, his eyes shut tight against the pain. Drops of blood-red perspiration ran down his face, and dark stains appeared on his clothing, but he refused to release the sword. Watching from the ground, Projectra threw up her hands in an attempt to cast an illusion as Val cursed his useless flight ring. To their surprise, however, Obsidian was unaffected by Projectra's power.

"I said let it go!!!"

A backhanded slap from Obsidian sent the weakened Dagon flying to the ground.

"Unnnhhhhhhh!!"

"Brin!" shouted Karate Kid, "Dagon needs you!"

His heightened senses detecting a friend in pain, Timber Wolf ceased his battle with the transformed Lightning Lad by wrapping him up in a metal gate. As he ran off, the shadowdrone released a burst of lightning and electrified itself into unconsciousness. Timber Wolf executed a double flip, caught the falling vampire in midair and landed cat-like on the ground. He set Dagon down carefully.

"Easy, pal. I'll get Ling to..."

"N-No!" Dagon rasped. His body was twitching and obviously wracked with pain. He grabbed Brin's hand and the Legionnaire noted how weak his grip had become. "I've gotta get...get the sword! Before it's t-too late!"

"The sword?" Brin asked quizzically, stripping off his uniform shirt and bundling it underneath Dagon's head. "What sword?"

"S-Soultaker. S'the only th-thing...that can get rid of...of this curse!" A tiny rivulet of sickly black blood ran down the corner of his mouth as he spoke. "S'the only thing...that can make me...n-normal again!"

"Then, that's why you were...?"

"At the...Museum, yeah, fangs..." Dagon smiled at the memory of their first meeting. Then, his eyes softened a bit and he looked up pleadingly at his friend. "B-Brin, please...If he wins...I don't wanna...die like...like this..."

With those words, the vampire slumped into unconsciousness. Brin placed Dagon's hand gently at his side and looked up at the dark villain in the air above. He stood, a white film covering his eyes and an animalistic urge for blood boiling within his chest.

** LLL **

"Christian! I-I thought you dead!"

Ling ran to embrace his old friend and Christian happily returned his hug.

"As did the demons, my friend, felled along with the unspeakable demise of Milady Mysa."

Ling stepped back, the words ringing in his ears. He had thought that Mysa and Christian had both perished on Xerox, but it was a shock to actually hear the words confirming Lady Mysa's death, especially coming from another he had thought lost to him...

"Then...she is truly gone?" he asked quietly.

Christian's head lowered and light brown curls fells over his haunted eyes at the memories of the attack. He reached out and placed a comforting hand upon the other man's shoulders.

"Yes," he answered sadly. "But come, my friend. We must see to your companion."

Ling followed his friend as he knelt beside Tasmia. Christian closed his eyes in concentration and placed his hands upon her arm.

"What are you doing?" asked Dragonmage, irritably. "Who are you?"

"Shh!" the new arrival answered, giving the emerald clad sorcerer an annoyed look. "I must concentrate. Ling, join me here."

Ling fought a satisfied grin as he placed his fingertips upon Tasmia's other arm. As Dragonmage watched, Christian began to speak in a rhythmic chant, with Ling soon joining him. He noticed that Ling's voice had become deeper and his eyes were different, more focused as they had been before. Then, he watched in amazement as the darkness that covered Tasmia's body slowly began to fade...

** LLL **

Seconds before her mother's spear pierced her heart, Shadow Lass noticed a pinpoint of bright, white light behind her attacker. Slowly, the light grew, and she somehow knew that she must reach it. She gathered what was left of her strength and shoved her foot into the advancing woman's abdomen, making her double over in pain and drop the spear. Then, Tasmia scrambled to her feet and ran towards the light, which had grown considerably.

{Lar, lend me your strength..!} she prayed as she leapt upwards towards the beckoning brightness.

Her eyes shut against the brightness, and there was the sound of wind rushing past her. She felt herself being yanked and then nothing. Slowly, she opened her eyes.

"Tasmia?"

She could hear her name, but the voice was unfamiliar. Spots danced before her eyes, slowly forming into blurry images.

"Tasmia, can you hear me?"

Again that voice, but this time she felt she should know it. A name danced elusively at the fringes of her memory as faces hovered at the edge of her vision, too blurry for her to recognize. She was tired, drained, and felt herself slipping back into the darkness.

"Shadow Lass, follow my voice..."

This time, the voice was completely unfamiliar, cold and yet caring at the same time. Still, it seemed to pull her further from her confused state and fully back into reality. Everything suddenly came into focus and she shot up into a sitting position. She was breathing rapidly and her heart was racing, as if she had awoken from some horrid nightmare.

"Tasmia! Easy, girl! You're all right!"

"T-Troy?"

The dark-skinned man smiled and embraced her. "Yes, Tasmia, it's me. You're all right now. Ling and his friend saved you."

She looked at the two men kneeling beside her. The one was completely unfamiliar to her, and the eyes of the other, the one wearing the Helm of Nabu, were changing as she watched, becoming softer. She began to see the caring and concern, as well as the Asian influence. A memory tugged at her, of young Ling placing the helmet upon his head. "Ling?" she asked. "Is that you?"

"Yes, friend Tasmia. It is I." He gestured at the young man kneeling next to him. "This is my companion, Christian."

"Milady, I am glad you are well," Christian smiled.

"Thank you, Christian," she answered, returning the smile, and struggled to rise.

"Tasmia, wait!" admonished Dragonmage. "You must rest!"

"Rest?" she asked. "I'm afraid I can't do that, my friend. I have something to do."

"And what is that?"

Tasmia looked at him, then up at the darkened sky where Obsidian laughed triumphantly, hovering amidst swirling shadows and crackling energy. She grinned ruefully and answered.

"I have to die."

** LLL **

Inside the clammy air of the crypt, Raven sat in a lotus position and concentrated. Years ago, on one of her many trips through space, she had met an ancient woman who taught her how to reach her full potential. The experience proved to be too painful for her, and Raven vowed never to attempt it again. If she were Dick or Gar, she mused, she would say something like "Apparently, 'never' comes a lot sooner in this century". Fortunately for her, she was not Dick or Gar.

Angrily pushing the remembered levity of her friends from her mind, she concentrated as the woman had taught her. Deeper and deeper her mind and soul went, searching...searching. Stinging memories and wrenching emotions assailed her, but she pressed onward. Finally, she somehow knew that she neared her destination, and a tear ran down her cheek.

"Azar be with me," she whispered.

Seconds later, the woman called Raven screamed a wrenching, sorrowful scream.

  Chapter Twenty

Tinya Wazzo awoke to the sounds of shrieking shadowdrones and bursting energy blasts. The last thing she remembered was grabbing onto Obsidian's arm after watching Shadow Lass being consumed by darkness. There were pinpricks of cold, stabbing pain throughout her body and then nothing.

"I have to die."

{Th-That's Tasmia's voice! She's all right!}, she realized, her thoughts still a bit foggy. {But, is she saying she has to die? Why??}

Slowly, Tinya rose on unsteady legs and made her way cautiously over to where her friend was arguing with three other men. As she did, it struck her what a ragtag group they truly were. There was Tasmia, of course, the Shadow Champion of Talok VIII and her best friend, standing next to Dragonmage, whom she knew to be her former teammate Tyroc. Beside him was a man with the helmet of Dr. Fate, which she barely remembered watching Ling pull over his head before the explosion in the castle. The other man, the one in purple robes, she did not know at all, yet he seemed accepted by the others. Tinya stumbled a bit as she neared them, catching Tasmia's attention.

"Tinya!" Tasmia shouted. "Troy, lower your field!"

Dragonmage lowered his mystic dome, allowing Phantom Girl access. Both Shadow Lass and Ling rushed to her side.

"Lady Tinya, it is good to see that you are unharmed!"

"Thank you, Ling. It is Ling in there, isn't it?" she smiled. "My mind is still a little fuzzy....". A slow nod was her reply.

"But...what happened to you?" asked Shadow Lass as she greeted her friend.

"Shady, I thought...I thought you were dead! I tried to use my powers to disrupt Obsidian's link to the talismans, but...I failed."

"It was a valiant effort, girl," said Dragonmage. "But ultimately useless. He's too powerful for you alone. Still, we must find a way to stop that madman!"

"Agreed. But, how?" asked Christian.

"I tried to tell you," answered Shadow Lass. "I have to die."

Phantom Girl pushed herself away from Ling's supportive arm, wrapped around her waist.

"Tasmia, that's crazy! What are you talking about??"

"Tinya, I think Faust's suspicions were right; I am destined to be the last Child of Darkness. It mentions that in the prophecy and that prophecy is the only thing we have to go on. It also says that one of us must die by a comrade's hand..."

Tasmia looked deeply into her friend Tinya's eyes and took a calming breath. She already knew what her friend's reaction would be to what she was about to suggest.

"My friend, has Kal ever told you about the old Earth expression of killing two birds with one stone?"

"Yes, as a mater of fact he has, but that doesn't apply here! Shady, there's got to be another way out of this mess!"

"If there is, we don't have the time to find it!" Tasmia replied angrily, the stress and emotions of the situation finally bursting through her controlled demeanor. "Obsidian's darkness is spreading as we speak! Only his damnable overconfidence has kept his shadowdrones at bay this long! Can't you see he's playing with us?!? Now, hurry! We don't have much time before those damn shadowdrones come at us again!"

"This is insanity!" Dragonmage bellowed. "I won't hear any more of it!"

Tasmia turned a cool gaze upon the mage. In her current emotional state, his constant 'take-charge' attitude concerning her welfare was beginning to grate on her nerves. Having dealt with Lar and his neediness for so long, she wasn't used to playing the subordinate and what's more, she didn't really like it.

"Unfortunately, my friend, my life is not yours to give or to govern. It is mine."

Before any further discussion could be had, the air was filled with a horrifying shriek and a burst of bright red flames not far away.

"Talok's Bones! What was that?"

"It sounded almost...inhuman!" said Tinya, still shaking slightly from her ordeal.

"Tasmia, stay here with Tinya. Neither of you is in any shape to go into battle right now. Fate, come with me and let's check this out!"

Neither woman argued as Dragonmage headed toward the disturbance. Before following, Ling turned to Christian.

"Join me, Christian?" he asked, offering his hand as he floated above the ground. Christian grasped it firmly.

"I have just found you again, White Lotus," he smiled, using the name that he used only in their most private moments. "Do you think I'd let you leave me again?"

Beneath the Helm of Nabu, Ling smiled also before the two of them flew off to join Dragonmage.

** LLL **

"Todd, stop this!" Sentinel pleaded. "You have no idea what you're doing! This world cannot withstand this kind of strain much longer!"

"Give it up, Scott!" answered Klarion as he deposited Teekl on the ground. The were-cat immediately began slashing at converging shadowdrones. "If there's one thing I've learned from my partnership with your son, it's how pigheaded he is! Hmmm...Y'know," he grinned smugly, "maybe when this is all over, I'll give him a real pig's head!"

"Funny, Witch-Man," returned Obsidian, shadows swirling madly around him, "but when this is over, you'll be too dead to do anything!"

Below the three combatants, Queen Projectra and Karate Kid watched the battle of mystical energy and shadowy attacks.

"Val, we have to do something! Sentinel is right; Orando cannot take much more of this!"

"I know, love, but...Gods! It's so hard to think!"

"I know. All this mystic energy in the air must be fogging everyone's minds, as well as interfering with our rings! Wait! Val, look over there! Tasmia and Tinya are all right! But, they seem to be arguing about something."

"That's not like them, although this whole thing has us all on edge. Since there's not much we can do here right now, let's go see what's up..."

As the couple fought their way over to their fellow Legionnaires, they failed to see the agile body of Timber Wolf spring from a tree branch above their heads and attack Obsidian.

** LLL **

Nearby, Dragonmage, Dr. Fate and Christian had found the source of the flames they saw earlier. In the corner of a large crypt, a figure huddled on the floor amidst the flames. The form was clearly female, and its dark blue gown was in tatters.

"By the Dark One! Raven, is that you??"

In answer to Christian's question, the female demon stood slowly, turning to stare at them with shining eyes. She was taller than each of them, and looked at them through three yellow-tinged eyes, one on her forehead, which shone in the firelight. Her skin was blood red, and long, pointed antlers sprouted from her forehead. The three mages felt a sudden wave of unreasonable fear as they looked upon her. When she opened her mouth to speak, they saw the stark, white fangs that protruded from beneath her lips.

"Raven was a child", she said in a dismissive tone, her voice scratchy and low. "Too soft and human for what must be done. She is gone."

"No!" cried Ling. "What have you done with her, monster?"

He took a step forward, but the demon-woman laughed and held up her hand. As Ling watched, she extended a long, sharp fingernail to caress his chest.

"Calm yourself, Little Mage. I have done nothing to her. The one you call Raven has evolved, as she eventually must, into that which she was born to be; me, her father's daughter. You may call me Trigarra."

"Tell me then, Trigarra," asked Dragonmage warily, "Are you here to aid us or to hinder us?"

The demon-woman sniffed derisively.

"Although it tempts me greatly to play with your little lives," she smiled, baring her fangs, "I am sworn to uphold Raven's bond to you and your cause. You have nothing to fear from me."

Unnoticed, all three sorcerers released a breath they had not realized they were holding.

"Very well then," the former Tyroc continued. "Let's return to the battle."

A curt nod from Trigarra and the four were on their way back to the others.

** LLL **

Timber Wolf's claws tore at Obsidian's body, finding nothing but wisps of shadow. Obsidian merely smiled at him. In a fit of frustration and rage, Brin renewed his attack and fiercely bombarded the dark villain with blows of super-strength, which also proved fruitless. Still, the villain did nothing.

"Are you through?" he asked disdainfully. A huge, black hand erupted from his side and grabbed Brin around the waist, pulling him away from his intended victim. He bared his fangs and growled loudly as he tried to pry open the large, dark fingers.

"Oh, stop it! I've had about enough from you, you wild dog! You're out of your league, Legionnaire! Your puny powers can't do a thing to me!"

"Let him go, Todd!" shouted Sentinel. With a wave of his hands, Obsidian sent shadowy battering rams to slam into both Sentinel and Klarion. Then, he returned his attention to his captive. Slowly, the fist tightened around Brin's torso, crushing him as it brought him closer to Obsidian. Brin threw back his head and howled in pain.

"Hurts, doesn't it?" Obsidian asked, his face now only inches away from Timber Wolf's. He was smiling again, content in his power and in his captive's agony. "You know, you wouldn't even make a decent drone! I think I'll just kill you like the rabid animal you are and be done with it."

Suddenly, Brin's arm was a blur of motion and the next second Obsidian was screaming, holding his eyes.

"AARRGGHHHH!!! My eyes! You animal! You slashed my eyes!"

With Obsidian distracted, Brin was able to easily force open the hand that held him. A series of somersaults landed him safely on the ground.

"Yeah, the only sprockin' place you were vulnerable. What, did'ja think I was just some hairy guy with an animal inside, waiting' to get out?" Brin smiled. "I'm a legionnaire, you sprockin' jerk, not some mutated wildman!"

** LLL **

"Shady, there's no way we're going to let you do this!"

"Val, you must! Look at what's happening!" Shadow Lass insisted with a wave of her hand. "Orando is being destroyed, and that maniac is growing stronger by the minute! The only chance we have at stopping him is to follow the prophecy!"

"But, we don't even know if you're the one the prophecy refers to!"

Shadow Lass smiled ruefully.

"Tinya, my dear friend, how many Children of Darkness do you know?" She turned to look at all of them. "I appreciate all of your support, but in this time, in this place, I am the Child of Darkness that the prophecy speaks of!"

Suddenly, Karate Kid's eyes went blank. The words 'Child of Darkness' echoed in his mind over and over again. Then, a memory from a Washington mansion centuries ago and the haunting voice of Baron Winters, prompting him to do...something. As the Baron's voice echoed in his mind, Val began to whisper over and over in a monotone voice.

"Child of Darkness...shall be...the last...."

"What was that, my love?"

"Child of Darkness...shall be...the last..."

Slowly, he began to move towards Shadow Lass.

"Kid, what's wrong? Jeckie, look at his eyes!" Phantom Girl placed her hand upon his arm, but she was suddenly slapped away and fell to the ground.

"Tinya!" Projectra cried. "Val, what's wrong with you?!?"

As Karate Kid drew near, Shadow Lass saw something behind her teammate's eyes that made her suddenly fear him. There was a coldness, a ruthlessness, that she had never seen before. Instinctively, she threw up a field of shadows, hoping to confuse him, but it was too late. His strong right hand shot out and grabbed her around the throat. Her two hands flew to his wrist, trying desperately to loosen his grip, but his strength was almost inhuman. As it was, she could barely keep him from crushing her windpipe.

"Val! Stop!" cried Projectra as she struggled to pull her husband's arm away. He ignored her.

"Child of Darkness...shall be...the last..." he intoned again.

Shadow Lass looked at her friend and saw the blank expression upon his face. It was obvious now that some outside force was controlling him. She stopped struggling against him and spoke to the Projectra through gritted teeth.

"Jeckie", she said hoarsely, staring intently at the queen. "Tell him...that I...forgive him."

Suddenly, a field of darkness rose around the two of them, separating them from Queen Projectra and the unconscious Phantom Girl.

"Gods, no...." whispered Projectra, the memory of their conversation of only minutes ago playing over in her head. "I have to die," Tasmia had said.

"Please, my friend, do not do this..!" Projectra begged. "Val, stop!!"

Shadow Lass closed her eyes and squared her shoulders. For a moment, her thoughts turned to her lover, her soulmate.

{Farewell, Lar, my beloved...}

Then, as a single tear rolled down her cheek, she removed her hands from Karate Kid's wrist.

"Do it," she whispered.

For a moment, Val hesitated and Tasmia could see his eyes well up with tears, as well. Then, he spoke the words once again, only this time in an emotional, heavy voice.

"Child of Darkness...shall be...the last..."

Through the darkness, Queen Projectra heard a sickening 'snap'. Long seconds later, when the darkness dissipated, she was able to see the body of Shadow Lass lying lifeless on the ground and her husband, Karate Kid, kneeling beside it.

  Chapter Twenty One

A cold, icy wind blew across the scarred ground of the Royal Cemetery of Orando. It brought with it the stench of death and the promise of despair. As a group of weary and beaten legionnaires steeled themselves against it, they knew, each of them, that their lives would never again be the same.

Timber Wolf and Queen Projectra huddled protectively around a sobbing Karate Kid, who kneeled on the ground cradling the lifeless body of Shadow Lass in his arms. Nearby, the mage called Faust and the were-cat, Teekl, found themselves being slowly outnumbered by shadowdrones. And in the darkened skies above them all, Sentinel and Klarion fought desperately to contain the maddened Obsidian, angered even more by the wounds recently inflicted upon his eyes by Timber Wolf.

"What does it take, Daddy Dearest, to make you see you've lost?" Obsidian asked, smiling evilly, the back of one hand resting protectively over his left eye as the other hand sent shadow-blasts at his opponents. "You and the Witch-Man are barely holding your own against me!"

For what seemed to be the hundredth time in the last few minutes, Sentinel barely avoided another mystic shadow-bolt, which flew past his head and shattered upon one of Klarion's hastily erected shields. Sentinel could see that the Witch-Man was tiring, as was he. Although his body was now composed of the Starheart's mystical emerald flame, the form was still animated by Alan Scott's mind and soul, and he was emotionally drained. Bad enough that he was forced to battle his own son, but Obsidian had grown more powerful than Sentinel had thought possible. He knew that only the distraction of his impeded eyesight kept Obsidian from blowing them out of the sky.

Suddenly, there was a loud roar, and a column of fire struck Obsidian in the back, searing his dark cloak. As all three of the airborne men turned, they saw a demonic, crimson-skinned woman flying towards them, a broad smile on her angular face. Behind her, Dragonmage, Dr. Fate and Christian followed.

"Surprised, Dark One?" she asked in a raspy voice. "You should be, aye, and fearful as well! No longer do you face mere mortals who play at being gods! Now, you face me; the one, true daughter of Trigon, and Trigarra will see you fall!"

** LLL **

"That's it! I've had enough of this!" shouted Faust. He threw up his hands and a wave of energy flew outward from him, shoving away all of the nearest shadowdrones. The exertion of expending so much power at one time caused him to fall to one knee as he shouted at the grieving legionnaires.

"Projectra!" he shouted, "We need to get out of here and regroup!"

The Queen of Orando turned towards him with fire in her eyes.

"Are you truly that heartless, Faust, that you would interrupt our grief at this moment?!? A friend has died, killed by my own husband's hands, and you ask us to leave? Are you mad?"

The sorcerer stood, a grunt of pain escaping his lips, and walked quickly over to Projectra's side.

"Are you??" he asked. "If we don't get out of here now, Princess, these shadows are going to overrun us completely! I can't keep holding them off by myself while you all lick your wounds! Look around you! Half of your team is missing, and the other half are weak as kittens! We need a breather if we're going to win this thing!"

She was silent as she considered his words. Then, in a quiet tone, she lowered her head and looked at her husband, still on his knees, holding the body of Tasmia Mallor.

"Alright. There is a place near here, an abandoned church, where we can go. Perhaps I can distract the drones long enough to allow the rest of you to reach it..."

"I appreciate the oh-so-selfless-thought, but there's no need to sacrifice yourself," answered Faust snidely. He glanced sideways at the Legionnaire and grinned. "You're the only one familiar with this place, and that might come in handy later. Hold on to your cape..."

With an intricate gesture of his hands, the entire group of them suddenly faded from view.

**LLL**

Seconds later, they reappeared inside the old church.

"What the Bloody Nass just happened?!?" Timber Wolf asked, helping the recovering Phantom Girl to her feet. As Tinya stood staring at the huddled form of Karate Kid, Brin lifted his head slightly and remained still for a moment. "Where are we? We're not near the battle anymore..."

"No, Brin, we're not," Projectra answered quietly. She eyed Tinya warily as she spoke. "We are in an abandoned church on the castle grounds, although far enough away from Obsidian and his drones."

"What?? Jeckie, are you crazy?? We've gotta get back there! Sentinel and the Witch-Man can't handle Obsidian all by themselves much longer! And we don't even know what's going on with Ling, Tyroc and the others!"

Faust's sarcastic tone interrupted any response Projectra might have given.

"Oh, so now you worry about it, eh, Wolfie? About bloody time! I've been doing all the damn grunt work while you so-called 'heroes' concentrate on yourselves! In case you've forgotten, there's a war going on here! You can't tell me you legionnaires never lost one of your own in combat!"

Timber Wolf turned, his face twisted into a fierce scowl. The pupils of his eyes had disappeared and the hair on his head had grown into devilish points. He bared his fangs and leapt at the angry sorcerer.

"Listen, Faust, my best friend is going through Hell over there! He was just forced to kill a teammate of ours and...!"

"Shadow Lass; I know." Faust said simply. "It had to be done."

Brin snarled and threw the man against a wall, cracking it. He grabbed the front of Faust's leather jacket and lifted him up, readying his other fist.

"What d'you mean 'it had to be done'?? What do you know, Faust?"

"It's the prophecy, you idiot!" Faust answered, rubbing the back of his head with one hand while the other adjusted his ever-present sunglasses. "Baron Winters told me that the prophecy has to be fulfilled, or we don't stand a chance! Once all the requirements are met, we'll be able to stop this madness!"

"He...He's right, Fangs..."

The gathered heroes turned towards the faint, scratchy voice. In the corner of the room sat Dagon, coughing blood and eyeing them all very carefully.

"Dagon," said Timber Wolf dangerously, "What do you know about this?"

"Enough.." the vampire wheezed. "I've been around...long enough...to know...a thing or two...about prophecies..."

"What can you tell us, Dagon?" asked Phantom Girl somberly, surprising the others with her composure. They all stared at her, as if waiting for her to crack.

"What?" she asked, her temper flaring a bit. They could see the wetness glimmering in her eyes. "What did you all expect? That I'd fall apart because my best friend is...is dead? Well, I'm not. I'll mourn later. All I want to do right now is find out about this damned prophecy and shove it down Obsidian's throat! I won't have Tasmia's death be for nothing!"

Projectra quietly made her way to Tinya's side and placed her hand gently upon her teammate's shoulder. "Dagon...Faust..." she said quietly, glancing back at her husband. "Tell us what we must do to avenge our friend...."

  Chapter Twenty Two

It had been two hours since the ragtag band of heroes fled the scene of battle on Orando and relocated themselves inside an old, dilapidated church on the castle grounds. They had spent those hours resting, recovering, planning and burying their dead. It was agreed that Shadow Lass would be honored as a Hero of Orando until such a time that she could be returned to her beloved Talok VIII. Phantom Girl presided over a short, heartfelt ceremony, after which Karate Kid, her killer, disappeared into a backroom of the building. After the ceremony, there had been much discussion, and plenty of arguing, but they had finally decided upon a plan of action. Now, they were all anxious to return to the battle and exact vengeance.

"Are we all agreed, then?"

Queen Projectra's question met with various nods of approval. Faust, of course, merely glared at her from behind his dark glasses as he chewed upon a wooden splinter.

"Fine," she continued, sparing the irritable sorcerer an icy glance, "I'll take Faust's silence as an affirmative. Dagon will stay with Val and..."

"No."

They all turned to see Val Armorr, the Karate Kid, standing near the deserted altar. The moonlight that shone through the stained glass windows cast colorful designs upon his face.

"That won't be necessary, Jeckie. I'm going with you," he said shortly.

Projectra walked slowly towards him.

"Val, my heart, perhaps you should stay here and rest..."

He shook his head, gently removing her soft hands from his chest.

"No, I can't. You might need me."

He stepped off the altar and addressed the gathering before him.

"Forgive me, my friends. I know I've been little use to you since Shadow Lass...died."

A dark glance from Timber Wolf stifled any caustic remark from Faust. Projectra could hear the trembling in her husband's voice. She was sure, however, that no one else could.

"For the last hour," Val continued, "I've been meditating, gathering my strength and trying to understand why I did this horrible thing. I remember hearing...words...'the Child of Darkness'...repeating over and over in my mind and a man, in a long, dark cloak whispering to me. I...I can't remember his face. Then, everything went blank. The next thing I knew, Shady's body was in my arms."

Phantom Girl bit her bottom lip and averted her eyes. She knew Val wasn't responsible for his actions, that he was controlled, somehow. She, herself, had seen it in his eyes. But it was still difficult to look at him.

"This mystery will have to be cleared up at another time," he continued,"But believe me, I am so very sorry for what I did. Tasmia was a good and valued friend. I would never willingly hurt her, let alone..."

His voice broke a bit at the end, and he glanced downwards, as if ashamed. Timber Wolf stepped forward and placed a supportive hand upon his friend's shoulder.

"We know that, Val. You weren't yourself."

Brin glanced at Phantom Girl. She looked first at him, then at Val. Their eyes met as each of them felt the other's pain at the loss of their friend. Finally, Tinya smiled weakly at him.

"You have nothing to be ashamed of," she said softly. Behind Val, Projectra's chin trembled slightly as she smiled. A tear flowed openly down Val's dirty and bruised face.

"Alright, is the Legion Love Fest over now?"

Projectra turned and regarded Faust with a dangerously raised eyebrow.

"Much as I hate to agree with Leather Boy," Dagon interjected, jabbing a thumb in Faust's direction, "We really should be 'porting back to the others. Who knows what Darkmeat has done to them by now?"

"He's right, Jeckie," Tinya agreed. "We've been gone too long as it is."

Projectra took a deep breath. She hated to admit it, but she knew that Faust was right, also. They had needed this breather, but had no way of knowing what had befallen their friends.

"Very well," she said coolly. "Faust, if you would prepare the spell to return us to the battle? Dagon, are you sure you want to join us?"

"Yeah, I'm sure," the vampire answered. "Leather Boy's spell seems to have helped. I'm not in perfect health, but I'll live...or not," he grinned.

Brin smiled at that. "Nice to see you back to your old sarcastic self, pal," he said, slapping Dagon gently on the back.

As the heroes began to huddle together, Projectra made her way to her husband's side.

"Val," she whispered, "Are you sure you're up to this?"

"I have to be, my love," he answered. "Just one thing?"

"Anything."

"Don't go too far, okay?"

She lifted his chin, forcing his eyes to meet her own. "Never," she said, and gently kissed his lips.

** LLL **

"Hahaha!!! I've won! I've won!"

Obsidian's gleeful boast echoed through the heavy, ashen air surrounding the castle. Below him, lying beaten and battered on the ground, were the remnants of Baron Winter's Night Force. Sentinel slowly raised himself up on a fiery arm and looked up at his son.

"Haven't you...unnh...gotten tired of saying that yet, Todd?" he hissed through gritted teeth.

"Tsk, tsk, father," Obsidian replied. "Can't you finally admit it? You're done! All of you! The fact that one of your own is now mine should be proof enough of that!"

The villain pointed to a nearby figure, covered completely in black. The figure's tattered robes blew in the hot winds and he smiled at the shadowdemons that swirled around him.

"C-Christian..." Dr. Fate gasped hoarsely, his jeweled hand clawing at the dirt in sorrow and anguish.

"Is that his name?" asked Obsidian. "I never knew it. Not that it matters, of course. All that matters is that I've won!!"

From within a cage of shadows, Trigarra hissed and bared her fangs, her hands wrapped around the dark bars of her prison.

"Your foul demons may have infected the young sorcerer with their evil touch, Man-Demon, but they shall not hinder the vengeance of Trigon's Daughter!"

"Seems to me, they already have, ugly," answered the villain. With a flick of his hand, the bars of the cage grew sharp spikes, impaling Trigarra's hands. The demon woman shrieked in pain. It was an unearthly sound, matched only by Obsidian's evil laughter at her torture. Distracted as he was, however, Obsidian failed to notice Dragonmage on the ground, inching closer to Klarion.

"Klarion..." the mage whispered, "Can you fight?"

"Are you insane???" the other man angrily whispered back. "Just the two of us against that madman? I say we cut our losses and leave this place! I've got a world to rule!"

Dragonmage's hand shot out and grabbed Klarion's wrist in a vise-like grip.

"You leave us here, Witch-Man, and I swear I will hunt you down until the end of time and kill you..."

For a moment, Klarion stared deeply into the other man's steely eyes. Then, he spit out his answer.

"What do you want me to do?"

Before the former Tyroc could reply, there was a whirl of energy in the very air. Suddenly, Timber Wolf and the others burst through. In a split-second, they took stock of the situation and went into action with Phantom Girl barking orders.

"Faust, stop the Drones! Val, Jeckie, help me see to the others! The rest of you, attack!"

Immediately, Faust created a barrier between the transformed Christian, the shadowdrones and the heroes. Glancing down at his fallen comrades, he knew this fight was already over, but he had given his word.

Brin did a triple-somersault, vaulting off the spindly trunk of a nearby tree to knock Obsidian from the sky with a well-placed kick. Once the villain hit the ground, Dagon called forth all the vermin in the area and they covered the shadowy form, attacking him.

Projectra ran to the fallen Sentinel, while Val helped Dr. Fate to his feet.

"Ling, are you alright?"

The man nodded and pointed to the dark cage holding Trigarra.

"You must...free her..." he wheezed, leaning on Karate Kid's bare shoulder for support.

"Who? You mean that demon woman?" Val asked incredulously. "But why?"

"She is...Raven..." the sorcerer answered.

Val looked up at the raging woman, her jet-black hair whipping wildly about as she struggled to free herself from the spikes. He scanned the area and made his decision.

"Jeckie!" he called, pointing up at the cage. "We've got to free her!"

Queen Projectra looked up, saw the red-skinned woman and hesitated for but a moment before turning to a beaten and tired Sentinel.

"Sentinel, can you...?"

"I can try," he answered, and sent a burst of green flame towards the cage, shattering it and freeing Trigon's daughter.

** LLL **

Dragonmage rose, wiped the dirt from his clothes and surveyed the area, wondering where Tasmia was. Before he could look further, he noticed Dr. Fate being held up by Karate Kid and rushed over to them.

"He's badly injured," he told Karate Kid as the two of them gently placed Fate against a stone monument. "He and Sentinel took the worst of Obsidian's wrath. The boy has the heart of a lion."

"That he does," answered Val. "Can you help him?"

"Only if you help me..." the former Legionnaire smiled. "You still practice those healing techniques?"

Val smiled back and nodded quietly, holding out his hand. Dragonmage took it, placed his other hand upon Fate's chest, and began to chant. Within seconds, a warm, red glow enveloped Dr. Fate's body.

Meanwhile, not far away, Klarion held his pet, Teekl, in his arms.

"I swear, Teekl, if anything happens to you..."

"I'll watch her," Phantom Girl said quietly. "Right now, we need you to help us. Faust can't hold the drones back much longer..."

Klarion glanced in Faust's direction and saw the strain upon his face. He looked in the other direction and saw that Christian was now adding his own sorcery to the drones' attempts to breech the field.

"Why should I help you?" he asked. "Look at what happened to Teekl!"

"What happened to her wasn't our fault, Klarion, it was yours," she replied sternly. "You're the one who put her in this situation by helping that madman. And if you don't help us now, he'll win and she'll never recover. Is that what you want?"

He considered her words carefully. Then, he kissed his pet's head, handed her to Tinya and ran to aid Faust.

** LLL **

"GET OFF OF ME!"

Obsidian's shadowform melted through the horde of vermin and solidified above them. He enlarged his hand and swatted them away before floating up into the sky once more. Before he got very far, however, a cloud of smoke encircled his head, obscuring his vision.

"Now what?!?" he raged before a blast of searing red flame struck him in the chest, sending him back down to the ground.

"Hah! Now you shall feel what it means to debase the daughter of Trigon, little mortal!"

Trigarra slammed into him, her bloody hands and claws slashing at his body.

"Hey! What am I, chopped bat meat? Don't forget about my contribution, Tall, Red an' Nasty!" chastised Dagon as his own body re-formed from its smoky state. For a moment, he thought her tattered gown looked familiar, somehow, but decided he must be mistaken and joined her, adding his own claws and strength to the fight.

Nearby, Dr. Fate sat up slowly. Thanks to Dragonmage and Karate Kid, his injuries were healed.

"Are you alright?" asked Val.

"Yes," the mage replied shortly.

"Then let's get back to the battle..." Dragonmage said, already turning away from the two of them.

"Not yet. There is something I must do, first."

He raised his hands to his helmet and removed it, revealing the gentle yet sorrowful face of the young Asian named Ling.

"Good luck," Val heard Fate say, although Ling's lips never moved. "Do not make me regret giving you this opportunity, young one."

On the other side of Faust's magical field, a small portal opened behind the man once known as Christian. A disembodied voice whispered from within it, a voice the possessed mystic tried hard to ignore.

{Christian...} it began. {Christian, it is I, Ling...}

The shadowdrone hesitated from its work on the mystic shield and shook its head slightly.

{I know you can hear me...} the voice continued, {Fate made sure of it. Please, Christian, do not do this! I need you with us!}

The drone that once was Christian turned to face the portal, confusion swirling within it's enthralled mind.

{Christian, fight him! Fight Obsidian! I know you can do this! You are too strong, too smart, too good, to be a thrall of his! Break his hold upon you and help us! Help me! If not for me, then for our beloved Mysa!}

A delicate hand, adorned with jewels and wearing a golden bracelet, extended itself pleadingly from within the portal.

On the other side of the magical barrier, Ling waited, his arm disappearing into a swirl of colors that hung in the air. For long moments, there was no response and Ling began to think that he had lost his lover to the darkness forever.

"Ling," Karate Kid said gently, "Perhaps...Perhaps it is too late..."

Then, suddenly, Ling smiled brightly as he felt a hand strongly grip his own on the other side of the portal. Quickly, he plunged his other hand into it and began to pull. Val wrapped his strong arms around the young man's waist and pulled, also. Soon, a restored Christian was pulled through the portal, tumbling out onto the two men and knocking them to the ground.

"Gods..." Ling whispered. He held Christian's bearded face between his trembling hands as tears welled up in his eyes. "It is you! You're restored!"

"Only thanks to you, White Lotus," his lover whispered, smiling down at him as his own eyes glistened with moisture. "You brought me back. Thank you."

"We did it together," Ling smiled, "With Lady Mysa's help."

The two lovers stared into each other's eyes and finally kissed deeply as Val smiled up from beneath them.

"Ahem! I hate to break this up, boys, but we have a job to do."

The three of them looked up to see a bemused Phantom Girl staring down at them, the were-cat Teekl held protectively in her arms.

** LLL **

Nearby, Obsidian battled against Trigarra and Dagon fiercely. Clumps of grass and brush burned from Trigarra's flames. However, neither the demon woman's claws nor the vampire's strength were a match for the Spear of Destiny, held tightly in Obsidian's hand. Finally, with one sweep of his arm, he sent the two of them flying.

"You idiots!" he shouted. "You should have kept running while you had the chance! Now, I'll never let you leave this castle alive!"

A calm, determined voice rose out of the smoking brush.

"Make no mistake, Monster. We did not, nor would we ever, run from the likes of you!"

Queen Projectra strode imperiously through the fetid smoke, a sword of green flame in her hand. The reflection of the flames cast a crown of sparkles in her platinum hair as she eyed the villain with both contempt and danger in her eyes.

"As for this castle," she continued, "I reclaim it in the name of my people, as well as in the name of King Voxv, my father, and myself, Queen Projectra, rightful heir to the throne of Orando!"

Suddenly, she was upon him, her flaming sword slashing at him furiously.  Obsidian was barely able to keep her at bay, and even then, only because of the Spear he wielded.

"Ha!" Projectra spat as she reigned blow after blow upon her foe, "You may be powerful, Demonspawn, but you are no warrior!"

"Perhaps not..." Obsidian conceded, "But then, as you, yourself, said, I don't have to be..."

Two giant, ebony hands erupted from his sides and grabbed the Legionnaire's arms, pulling them painfully apart. Projectra felt something pop in her shoulder as her sword clattered to the ground, where a blast of dark energy shattered it. As it did, an unseen Sentinel cringed in pain nearby.

"Are you well, Star Champion?" Trigarra asked.

"I...will be...in a second..." the former Alan Scott gasped. "Sword I created...from Projectra's illusions...took all the power...I have left...Wasn't ready for...the backlash...from Todd's attack..."

"After all of this," she said, "Still you would call the monster by his given name. I cannot decide if you should be admired or pitied..."

With that, she flew off to save the Queen of Orando.

** LLL **

On Earth, in a mansion located in the province of Old Georgetown, a great cat picked his head up from the ancient Persian rug beneath him and growled softly. A hand reached down from the chair next to him and gently patted the cat's head.

"Yes, Merlin, I know."

The man in the long, dark cloak poured himself another brandy before rising from the overstuffed chair. He sighed and walked solemnly over to a door at the back of the room. Finishing the brandy in one swallow, he opened it and held out his hand.

"Come, my dear. Things have reached a crucial point. It is time to play my final wild card."

A soft, feminine hand grasped the Baron's, and a woman stepped into the parlor. Resignedly, she quietly followed her host to yet another doorway, one which glowed a sickly scarlet-green.

As Baron Winters opened it, she blanched slightly at the smell of burnt ozone and the feel of hot wind on her face. He waved his hand before him, his eyes glistening as he silently bade her to enter. Squaring her shoulders, she stepped through the portal as the Baron closed the door behind her. Picking up his discarded snifter, he poured himself another drink and resumed his seat, his faithful leopard at his side.

To be continued...