Chapter 72 - The Price of Pride - Part 4

Earth

In the months following the Kryptonian invasion, the Justice League demonstrated its effectiveness in handling threats too dangerous for any single member to tackle alone, threats that could result in significant collateral damage.

Notable adversaries included Poison Ivy and Solomon Grundy. Poison Ivy managed to ensnare one of the male members of the League on the scene, namely Hawkman, necessitating a split in the team – some members had to subdue their mind-controlled colleague while the rest, mainly the angry Hawkgirl, apprehended the villain. Solomon Grundy, an unthinking agent of chaos, proved a formidable challenge, even for Superman.

Despite their efforts to minimize property damage, some collateral damage was unavoidable. However, most of the world appreciated the Justice League's effectiveness.

After a month of intense debate, the United Nations passed new laws and punishments for dangerous elements. However, the use of the Phantom Zone projector required a unanimous vote. Once the law was passed, both Kryptonian prisoners were sentenced to the Phantom Zone. Batman, however, was concerned about their physical condition – they appeared weak and showed signs of invasive procedures and fluid extraction. His trackers confirmed they hadn't been moved to an unknown location, implying that a military division had been performing tests on the Kryptonians. Their eagerness to enter the Phantom Zone was also troubling. Batman made a mental note to investigate this further, as experimenting on sentient beings crossed a line for him.

The League also welcomed two Martians who had made telepathic contact with Superman. Upon hearing that they were awakened by a voice offering them a fresh start during the Kryptonian invasion, Batman realized these were the aliens Orach had mentioned. After confirmation from Orach, the team welcomed J'onn J'onzz, also known as Martian Manhunter, into their ranks. His niece, M'gann M'orzz, was advised to join the proteges of some of the members. Batman even arranged for the Martians to adopt human identities, allowing them to integrate into human society, and M'gann to attend school with the other aspiring young heroes.

The league also welcomed the Black Canary and the initially hesitant Green Arrow from Starling City. They were referred by the Flash and earned Batman's vote of confidence, as he had been monitoring Green Arrow's actions and was impressed by his effectiveness. Despite Green Arrow's initial approach of eliminating threats, his recent change in methods earned him a place on the team.

The League started monthly training sessions, with more experienced members instructing the others. These sessions were particularly beneficial for the young heroes-in-training, such as M'gann M'orzz, Jaime Reyes, who wanted to be less reliant on his scarab, Roy Harper, Mal Duncan, and Karen Beecher, who were occasionally allowed to join in.

Azarath - Training Grounds

While the rest of the league and Diana attended to her own affairs, Orach devoted his time to his training, guiding Rachel to develop her potential, and focusing on his work. For the most part, he chose to remain in Azarath, only venturing out to review reports, collaborate with his team, savor Alfred's culinary masterpieces, and sleep at the Manor. In Azarath, as Orach continued to infuse his God Ki into the realm, when he trained in his God transformation, the realm began to evolve, gradually transforming into a cultivation ground that enhanced Rachel's cultivation path.

Initially, Orach guided Rachel through breathing techniques and understanding Ki pathways. Rachel soon began to sense the dense Ki growing within Azarath. As Orach expected, she made swift progress and he moved on to teaching her how to channel her Ki and build her foundations. Given her body's magical prowess, Rachel quickly grasped how to allow Ki to flow through her body. However, the foundation building phase was a grueling process. While Rachel's magical abilities were impressive, her physical training was not. Orach's relentless physical drills often brought her to tears, leading her to label him as 'mean'. Yet, she pushed on, determined to give it her best.

After enduring a few months of rigorous training, Rachel began to notice changes. The pain in her muscles disappeared, her bones felt stronger, her muscles tighter, and her blood circulation improved. She felt a surge of energy she had never experienced before. Her body was finally adapting to the new power she was harnessing. Overjoyed, Rachel expected praise from Orach, and indeed, a smiling Orach did commend her. But the next moment she was terrified, as Orach had announced, 'Now your real training can begin'.

Rachel's real training involved learning how to manipulate her Ki to reinforce her body during battles or to amplify her attacks. While Orach's knowledge about magic was limited, his understanding of Ki flow helped Rachel grasp how Ki could augment her spells. Rachel enjoyed this part of her training; however, Orach had also incorporated fighting techniques into her training. This new addition once again led to Rachel shedding tears and throwing tantrums, dubbing Orach as 'stupid Orach'.

Since Rachel was a novice to cultivation, Orach spent his time guiding and observing her. However, whenever she finished her routines and rested, Orach began his own training and then started working in his slowly developing lab that he and Mother Empress were constructing together with materials sourced from Wayne Tech. It was quite simple for Mother Empress to modify Wayne Tech's purchase orders to include the required raw materials for their lab project in Azarath.

Orach had a certain level of trust for Bruce and Alfred, but when it concerned Azarath and his planned base of operations, he preferred to keep it a secret. Azarath was meant to be a safe haven for Rachel, Diana, and himself in the lower realm. However, with their limited resources, the progress of building a home and lab was slow. Orach wished fervently for the support ship to arrive sooner as it would have drones that could assist Mother Empress in completing the construction faster.

Wayne Tech - Orach's R&D division

Meanwhile, in the outside world, Orach's team began testing on lab rats with various injuries. The rats were anesthetized and fed into the prototype med pod. The med pod doors closed and soon a mixture of the healing solution with a small amount of blood from a healthy specimen was injected into the pod. About five minutes later, the team was thrilled to observe the missing limbs of the subjects regrow. This was a groundbreaking development, and they were proud to be part of it.

Orach's team held him in high esteem, despite their initial fear towards him after witnessing his frustration over the underperformance of their world's technology. However, their respect for him grew not just from the knowledge he shared and the help he offered in their personal field of research, but also from his usual respect for their intellect. They chalked up his outburst as an understandable one-time event given his background of an advanced civilization. However, with the success they were seeing from the months of work, their respect for him grew even more.

They continued testing on different subjects for a week and spent another two weeks observing if the subjects showed any abnormalities after the process. Everything from blood work to meticulously observing their behavior in their day-to-day life to physically testing their motor skills, especially in subjects that regrew new limbs, were observed and recorded. Orach would review these reports at night, either in Azarath or occasionally in his lab, to plan the next steps for the development of the med pod.

One night, while reviewing reports in his lab, Orach sensed two presences lurking around the Wayne Tech buildings. Their gaze was directed at his lab. It was clear they had come for either him or his work. Unlucky for them, while they could lurk around without catching the attention of humans, they couldn't escape his senses. Orach was curious to see what these parties would do since both didn't seem human. So, he allowed the events to unfold while he got back to work, all the while suppressing a smirk at their futile attempts at stealth.

Perched atop a nearby building, under the cloak of nightfall

A covert figure lurked on the rooftop, her attention riveted to the recent augmentation at Wayne Tech. Through her diligent inquiries—which even involved the seduction of a handful of Wayne Tech's researchers and board members—she had learned that Wayne Tech had ushered a 'Higher Realm' being into their ranks. Further, this being had agreed to share his profound knowledge and a portion of his advanced technology.

She was both intrigued and perplexed by the actions of this presumably powerful being. It seemed illogical to her that an entity of such immense power would choose to live a mundane life amongst beings as frail and imperfect as humans. Even her lord, despite his formidable power, indulged in pleasures and desires instead of leading a 'normal' human life.

Determined to uncover the truth, she decided to sneak into the lab under the cover of night, hoping to understand the true intentions of this mysterious being. However, as she neared Orach's lab, a tingling sensation made her stop, alerting her to another presence. She turned to see an angel descending from the sky, his wings folding neatly behind him. Then a voice rang out, a voice that never failed to get under her skin.

"Mazikeen, what brings you here?" Amenadiel asked, descending from above.

"That's not your concern, angel boy," Mazikeen, or Maze—the loyal subordinate and bodyguard of the Lord of Hell, Lucifer—replied icily.

Amenadiel narrowed his eyes at her cold response. "If it involves the entity from the higher realm, it's everyone's concern."

Maze snorted. "I don't have time for your sanctimonious speeches, Amenadiel. Speak your mind."

Amenadiel sighed at her hostility. "I didn't come to argue, Maze. I'm here to understand the being's intentions, just like you."

Maze raised an eyebrow. "And you think I know something? I'm just following orders."

"From Lucifer?" Amenadiel asked.

Maze rolled her eyes. "Who else?"

An uncomfortable silence fell between them. Maze, prepared to continue her mission, shot Amenadiel a cold look.

"Wait," Amenadiel called, seeing her proceed.

Maze, eager to get on with her mission, was annoyed by the interruption. "What is it now?"

Amenadiel said calmly, "Let me join you. I'm seeking answers too."

Maze narrowed her eyes suspiciously. "Why should I trust you? You're an angel, and I'm a demon."

Amenadiel responded, "While that's true, right now we need to put aside our differences. We may not see eye to eye, Maze, but we both want to protect what matters to us. For you, it's Lucifer. For me, it's Heaven."

Maze considered his words, then reluctantly nodded her agreement. "Fine. But don't get in my way."

And so, they both entered the Orach's lab, intent on uncovering the truth.

As they stepped inside, they were greeted by an array of advanced equipment scattered throughout the room. Venturing further, they encountered a series of enclosures housing lab rats, each accompanied by a detailed chart outlining their vitals and history. Intrigued, Maze picked up one of the reports and was instantly taken aback by the before and after images attached. If the report was accurate, the results could signify an incredible advancement for humankind. Amenadiel, who had joined Maze in studying the reports, shared her amazement. He, too, believed that this technological breakthrough could greatly benefit humanity.

Progressing deeper into the lab, they came upon a platform housing an oval-shaped pod filled with a clear, purple-green solution. Inside the pod, a specimen with missing limbs was undergoing rapid regeneration right before their eyes. Having reviewed the reports from the other specimens, they had a certain expectation of what they might see. However, witnessing the astonishing speed of limb regeneration, courtesy of human technology, left them shocked. While they were familiar with miraculous healing within the supernatural realm, this was a feat not yet achieved by human technology. Although the process did not match the speed of supernatural healing, it was a close second. And then, they heard a voice - ethereal and powerful, resonating throughout the room, saying,"What do you think?"

Upon hearing the voice, they found themselves in a grand hall as reality seemed to ripple before their eyes. The windows unveiled a sky of surreal blue-green, contrasted by crimson clouds. An initial wave of nausea and an oppressive feeling of suppression left them disoriented. After a moment, they realized they were no longer on Earth, but in an entirely different realm or dimension. Alert, they began to analyze their surroundings and assess the threat level.

Soon their gaze fell upon a being seated comfortably on a chair, engrossed in reading and flipping through a folder. The figure was lean, with a well-defined muscular physique, jagged black hair and an average face. Having seen this figure during Earth's Kryptonian invasion, Maze immediately recognized the entity. Despite feeling uncomfortable, she understood she was no match for him. So, she lowered her blades, assumed a respectful stance, and slightly bowed her head. She wanted to avoid any incident that could cause trouble for her lord. "Greetings Lord Orach, being from the higher realms. I, Mazikeen of the Lilim and subordinate of the lord of hell, greet you. I believe your invention will greatly benefit mankind."

Amenadiel was surprised by Maze's respectful gesture and flattering tone. Orach merely glanced at Maze. Initially, he was puzzled as to why this lord of hell, whom he had learned about from the Mother Empress's reports on Earth's lore and history, would send a subordinate to him. Nevertheless, he returned Maze's respect with a nod. Simultaneously, he lessened the pressure imposed by the realm's primordial laws on the intruders.

Feeling a slight lift in pressure, Maze sighed with relief, confident in her decision. Orach then asked her, "Why has a servant of the lord of hell come to my laboratory, Mazikeen of the Lilim? What is your purpose here? Remember, this is my domain, and deceit is unwelcome." Recognizing the seriousness of her situation and noting his stern tone, Maze resolved to be honest.

"During the Kryptonian invasion, my Lord sensed your power and observed your actions. He was intrigued by your power, which is akin to that of his parents, the creators of this reality. The sudden emergence of an unknown yet familiar power alarmed and intrigued my lord. He instructed me to investigate your actions, interactions, and possible intentions. Consequently, I infiltrated your lab to gain insights into your true intentions. I acknowledge my actions may be perceived as impolite and I am prepared to face any repercussions," Maze admitted, humility in her voice.

"Your honesty is appreciated. As it stands, I require information about Hell and other realms I sensed recently. If either you or your Lord can assure me this information, I will forgive this minor transgression, and agree to meet your lord," Orach replied.

Before Maze could respond, Amenadiel, still reeling under the realm's suppression, interjected, "Why do you seek knowledge about these realms? What could such a being as yourself possibly wish to learn from them? Are you planning to conquer them as you have this realm? I can still sense the faint traces of the realm of Azarath. Despite your considerable influence, it still bears the mark of the realm I once visited. Do you plan to conquer other realms as well?"

Orach bristled at the insinuation in Amenadiel's question. His calm demeanor gave way to a blank expression as he transformed into a Super Saiyan 2, releasing an overwhelming pressure that forced Amenadiel to his knees. Despite his best efforts, Amenadiel was compelled to bow before Orach.

Maze was aghast at Orach's transformation and the incredible power he exuded. She knew that Amenadiel was as formidable as her lord, given that both were Archangels. Witnessing his plight, she couldn't help but dread a similar fate for her lord should they incite Orach's wrath. She understood the importance of showing respect to Orach, since it was clear that Orach reciprocated respect, which she had learned from her research. She had to return to her lord and relay this critical information.

Orach approached the struggling Amenadiel, increasing the pressure with each step. Amenadiel was forced further into the ground, leaving a trail of craters in his wake. Once he reached Amenadiel, Orach lifted him off the ground with a mere gesture, bringing him face to face. Seeing Orach's blank expression, Amenadiel, one of Heaven's powerhouses, felt terror grip him after a long time.

With a chilling tone, Orach declared, "First, bring your arrogance before me only if you have the power to back it up. Second, I am not a conqueror, so no, I don't intend to rule over the realms. Regarding this realm, I found it in ruins with only one survivor. I made a deal with them, and only then did I take over this realm. Finally, it's only natural to seek knowledge about an unknown place where you've crash-landed. Does that satisfy your curiosity? Nod if you understand."

Orach reduced the pressure on Amenadiel slightly, allowing him to nod in understanding. He then turned to Maze. "Maze, inform your lord that I will be attending an exhibit at the Smithsonian soon. If he wishes to meet me, that's where he should go. However, he should understand that I expect the information I seek from him that day. Do you understand?"

Maze nodded, eager to leave this place as soon as possible. Orach nodded back, and as he was about to send them away, he added, "Maze, inform your lord that I also seek information about a demon named Trigon. He is on my hit list, and either I or my ward...my daughter will dispose of him in the future." With a wave of his hand, he sent them away from his realm. Maze found herself on the streets of Gotham, while Amenadiel was thrown into the Gotham river. Free from the restraints, Amenadiel took to the sky, seething and humiliated. Still fresh with fear, he decided to return to the silver city. Maze swiftly left Gotham, heading back to Los Angeles to report back to her lord.

Azarath

After Orach dismissed the intruders and tranquility returned to the hall, he shifted back to his normal form and refocused on his team's reports. Suddenly, he heard Mother Empress, her projection materializing before him, remark, "Young Master, that angel bore a striking resemblance to the Avian race. I initially speculated that an Avian had descended into this lower realm and had become the foundation for the 'Angels'. However, it's evident that isn't the case. The creator of this lower realm has fabricated replicas of many races found in the higher realms."

Without diverting his attention from the report in his hands, Orach responded, "Yes, I noticed. The Avians can be a troublesome lot. Despite their weakness, they harbor immense pride. This replica, based on the conversation I observed between the two, doesn't seem to be as bothersome, but let's see. If I'm not mistaken, isn't that lord of hell, Lucifer, also an Angel?"

Mother Empress confirmed, "Yes, young master. He too is an angel."

Orach merely nodded, continuing his work. After a pause, Mother Empress announced, "Young Master, the bangle sub-terminals for Rachel and Diana are completed. They'll have a connection with me and will be able to request my assistance as needed. Additionally, the division mark should offer them an extra layer of protection in challenging times."

Orach paused his work to examine the specifications of the sub-terminals projected by Mother Empress. Satisfied with their capabilities, he nodded in approval. But Mother Empress wasn't done yet. She suggested, "Young Master, since the upcoming exhibition will spotlight Diana's work, I thought she might appreciate another gift along with the bangles. According to Earth's dating customs, women enjoy receiving thoughtful gifts from their partners."

Intrigued, Orach asked Mother Empress for her suggestions. She didn't disappoint. She had already created another terminal for Diana, one with a different design that would complement the bangle. Orach, surprised at first, imagined Diana wearing it and couldn't help but give Mother Empress a hearty thumbs-up! Mother Empress merely smiled, pleased with her young master's approval. Later, the gift-wrapped box was transported to Diana's bedroom via space law by Orach.

Earth - Washington D.C - Smithsonian

Recently, Diana, the Curator of Cultural Anthropology and Archaeology at the Smithsonian, had been busy preparing for a significant museum exhibition. This event was designed to draw influential patrons, crucial for her goal of preserving history and educating the public about their cultural heritage. Her main focus was the careful cataloging and preservation of artifacts, each representing a glimpse into a past era.

Working with designers and other curators, they were creating exhibits that breathed life into these artifacts, emphasizing their cultural and historical significance. Along with exhibit preparation, Diana was immersed in research to ensure historical accuracy.

She was also developing educational programs and workshops to engage the community and deepen their understanding of the world's diverse cultures. Part of her daily tasks also included building relationships with other museums and securing funding. As the exhibition day neared, the team hoped their efforts would cultivate an appreciation for cultural heritage and ensure continued support from sponsors.

During a particularly busy day, while engrossed in researching an artifact, Diana received an unexpected visitor. Her friend and colleague, Barbara Minerva, knocked and entered her office.

"Hi Diana! How's the research coming along?" Barbara asked.

"Hey Barb! It's progressing well, but I still have a few pieces to work out. How are your exhibit preparations going? What brings you here?" Diana responded, her attention firmly on her work.

"Not much left on my plate, just one piece of my research that's been giving me headaches. I'm hoping that my exhibit will draw in some patrons. I could really use a sponsor or two for an expedition to Africa to further investigate a site. But for now, I thought I'd take a break and stretch my legs. Care to join me for a bit of fun to blow off some steam?" Barbara suggested.

Diana glanced up from her work, gave Barbara a warm smile, and said,"Africa? With the quality of your work, I'm certain you'll find patrons willing to support you. As for your invitation, I appreciate the offer, Barb, but I'll have to decline for now. I really want to wrap up today's work so I can head home early. I have an early start tomorrow with a proposal presentation, plus I need to check on a certain someone."

Barbara raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile tugging at her lips. "A certain someone, you say? Your new boyfriend? Way to go, Diana! I'm jealous. Lately seems like all good men are already taken. When will you introduce him to me? Maybe he has some friends or brothers he could introduce to me?"

Diana chuckled at her friend's enthusiasm and responded, "Yes, my boyfriend. But our busy schedules haven't allowed us to have a proper date yet. Even though I enjoy my work, I'm really looking forward to this event being over. Also, Barb, your Mr. Right is out there, maybe you're just not looking in the right places. I'll introduce him once he's in town. He works at Wayne Tech and is often busy with projects. Unfortunately, he's an only child and still new to the US, so he doesn't have any friends or brothers to introduce you to yet. I'm sorry, Barb."

Barbara rolled her eyes and laughed. "Ah well, no harm in asking, right? Also, ouch! Seriously, not even one date! I understand, though. Our schedules have been packed recently. Alright then, I'll let you get back to your work. Since you're not available, I suppose I'll just head home too. Good night, Diana."

Diana thanked her friend for understanding and bid her goodnight before diving back into her work. An hour later, she decided to call it a day and headed home to her apartment in Washington DC.

Upon arriving home, she let her hair loose and slipped into her cozy slippers, heading straight to the kitchen to quench her parched throat. After a relaxing hot bath and a hastily prepared dinner, she decided to call it a day.

But as she entered her bedroom, her eyes fell on an unexpected gift box resting on her bed, a note attached to it. Alert, she scanned the room for any potential intruders, but sensing none, her confusion grew. Cautiously, she approached the package and picked up the note. As she read it, her tense shoulders relaxed, and a sweet smile spread across her face.

To my beloved princess. I believe these will look good on you. These are sub-terminals to Mother Empress, so you can seek her assistance when required. In dire moments when I can't be by your side, the power within will be your protective shield. ~Orach

She then turned her attention to the gift box, unveiling a simple yet stunning necklace adorned with a single blue gem, and a matching bangle. The intricate design of the necklace caught her eye. It was breathtakingly beautiful. However, as she admired it, something within the gem caught her attention. Upon closer inspection, she recognized Orach's Strategic Division insignia embedded within. She quickly averted her gaze, realizing that the thirteen symbols of power from Sadala held the potency of primordial laws. The cryptic 'power inside' in Orach's note now made sense - a protective measure for dire situations.

She walked over to her nightstand, taking out and trying on the necklace and the bangle. For a fleeting moment, the gem seemed to emit a soft glow before returning to its normal state. Mother Empress's voice echoed from the bangle, explaining the functionality of both items. After admiring herself in the mirror, she felt an increasing fondness for the jewelry.

Satisfied, she delicately removed the necklace and the bangle, placing them back in the box. Already envisioning a suitable outfit for the upcoming event, she carefully stored the box away. She quickly sent a message to Orach's ID, provided by Mother Empress, expressing her gratitude with a simple 'Thank you! I love it.' and a kiss emoji. After sorting through her emails and outlining her plans for the following day, she decided to retire for the night, switching off the lights and slipping into a peaceful slumber.