CHAPTER 139

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The Watchtower's hallowed halls hummed with urgency as members of Young Justice and allied heroes convened in response to Batman's call. The somber air hung heavy as Batman addressed the gathering, his gravitas carrying the weight of their precarious situation.

"In the wake of recent events," Batman's voice was steady, betraying no hint of the mounting turmoil. "The Justice League has been falsely accused, branded as criminals by Lex Luthor's machinations. The world's trust has wavered, and it's not just us; other masked heroes have bounties on their heads and arrest warrants has been issued for all heroes. Our world is descending into chaos, crime rates spiraling out of control."

Around the table, Martian Manhunter's eyes held a glint of determination, Wonder Woman's resolve was unwavering, Green Lantern's ring exuded a palpable readiness, and Cyborg's stoic facade masked a fiery drive. The League's core members had managed to escape the meticulously orchestrated ambush Luthor had sprung, but at a grievous cost—Flash and Superman were now captive.

"Lex Luthor's influence and power surge unchecked," Batman continued, his gaze firm as he locked eyes with each hero present. "His ability to manipulate minds has granted him a stranglehold on our world. We must act swiftly to stop him before his grasp tightens further."

Frustration rippled through the room as a collective realization set in. They were the world's last bastion against Luthor's malevolent ascent. But even as darkness loomed, a glimmer of hope sparked as Batman rallied them.

"We must lay low for now," Batman's words were measured, his voice a beacon of guidance. "Operate as vigilantes, but exercise caution. Our task is to bide our time, gather information, and plan. Together, we will unravel Luthor's web of deceit and set the record straight. The world must know the truth and Luthor must pay for what he has done."

Amidst nods of agreement and grim determination, Green Lantern interjected, a touch of wryness in his tone. "And where's Constantine when you need him?"

A rueful smile tugged at Batman's lips, fleeting but genuine. "I don't know. Last I heard, he was vacationing in hell, trying to acclimate to his future accommodations. Seems he wanted to familiarize himself with the place before it becomes his eternal residence."

"Yup, sounds like him alright." Green Lantern replied. 

"But how are we supposed to operate as vigilantes when the police are treating us like criminals?" Kid Flash asked Batman as he gestured around the room to imply everyone there. 

"Oh, first time?" Green Arrow asked as he gave a sarcastic wink. "Back when I started up, I never wanted to be considered a hero so I started up as a vigilante which they called 'The Hood' and was chased around by the police even though I saved countless lives on multiple occasions, it still didn't matter. I just kept on doing what I believed was right, and that was clearing my city of the parasites that was plaguing and rottenning my city."

"But how can we operate as vigilantes when the police are treating us like criminals?" Kid Flash inquired, his frustration apparent as he swept a hand around the room, encompassing his fellow heroes.

Green Arrow's smirk was evident in his voice as he responded, his words laced with sarcasm. "Ah, a first-timer, huh? When I started out, I wasn't exactly their favorite hero either. Went by 'The Hood,' they did everything but roll out the welcome mat for me. Saved countless lives, didn't matter. I just stuck to my convictions, cleaned up my city one arrow at a time."

Blue Beetle leaned in, curiosity shining in his eyes, as he asked for guidance. "Now you're the guardian angel of Star City and a key member of the League. Any advice for those of us who haven't been on the wrong side of the law?"

Oliver's response was cut short by Batman, the Dark Knight taking a step forward to address the young heroes. "We're dwelling too much on this. Change into darker costumes if you're not already wearing them, remove any recognizable symbols or emblems. Go stealth."

Martian Manhunter's calm voice resonated as he added his support. "I concur. This is our most prudent course of action at the moment."

Starfire's fiery determination burned bright as she clenched her fist. "If they want rogue heroes, that's what they'll get."

Supergirl's conflicted gaze held a plea as she raised her concerns. "The fact that they captured Superman, and even The Flash... What's our plan for them?"

A comforting hand landed on Supergirl's shoulder, Superboy offering silent reassurance. "We'll find out where they're held. Just lay low, stay safe, and avoid capture. We'll let you know if we need your help to rescue them."

With Batman's curt words, the meeting concluded, heroes scattering to their respective bases, bracing for the storm that had descended upon them. 

…

"That was quite a brilliant move. Luthor's truly a damn genius," I remarked, my left palm covering my face as a short burst of laughter escaped me.

Confusion clouded Jason's face as he questioned, "What do you mean? The heroes aren't criminals, and the surge in crimes will be overwhelming for the police to handle."

Since I've been here, it's been non-stop chaos out there. The young man's frustration and disbelief were evident.

"Who would've thought the day would come when heroes would be labeled criminals and hunted by the police? I should probably give Mick a call and ask him to stir things up in Central City, given Flash is captured," Leo contemplated aloud. He paused, realization dawning on him. "Superman's caught too. Metropolis is wide open, without the Man of Steel to protect it, it's prime pickings."

Leo's mind was racing. "You could send a few of your crew members to Central City, manage operations from here, much like I used to. Eventually, they'll make their way to Metropolis."

The young adult, visibly tense and concerned, interjected with a heartfelt plea. "Can't you guys see the world's falling apart? Why aren't you taking this seriously?"

As the tension built, Jason chimed in, seeking clarity. "And what were you talking about with Luthor?"

An exasperated sigh escaped me as I smacked my forehead, weariness evident. "Seriously, more questions? Alright, here's the deal. Since you went all 'Ghost' and transformed into Red Hood, you've missed quite a bit. In a nutshell, Luthor found a way to amplify Gorilla Grodd's psychic power, allowing him to manipulate people's minds on a grand scale. He's controlling military leaders, politicians—essentially anyone with power."

Jason's response was a mix of acknowledgement and surprise. "Damn, didn't see that one coming, but it's Luthor after all."

Leo inquired further, delving into the mechanics of Luthor's control. "So, he just needs to be in proximity to control someone?"

My irritation surfaced as I poked Leo to scoot over, seeking my own space on the couch. Sharing it with these guys wasn't part of the plan. "No, not proximity. He implants thoughts, making them unwitting puppets obeying his will."

"Why hasn't he mind-controlled the public yet?" Leo's inquiry persisted.

More questions. I could feel my patience waning. "Again? Alright, look, Luthor's cautious. Maybe he needs something specific to expand his reach. A massive satellite with enough power to control a whole city. But that's just a hypothetical, right? Such a thing doesn't exist."

"Um..." Jason's contemplative hum hinted at a revelation, and I dreaded his response.

"Please don't say what I think you're about to say," I muttered, knowing it would complicate things further if Luthor had control over not only individuals but a populace, with HD possibly steering them into a cult-like following, proclaiming himself a messiah despite being the architect of their turmoil.

"It does exist, actually. The Justice League Watchtower could function as such a device if manipulated right."

"Ugh... you just had to mention it, didn't you?"

"Wait, the Justice League has a base in space?" Leo's disbelief echoed.

"Yeah, Batman came up with the idea," Jason clarified.

"Interesting." My quip couldn't be contained. The notion of a space house, overseeing Earth like a god, held its appeal—a haven away from everyone's bullshit.

*RING RING!!!*

My thoughts were shattered by my ringing phone. Seeing Rae's name on the caller ID, I answered with a laid back tone. "Hey, babe, are you alright?" I murmured, slipping out of the sitting room, fully aware of the curious, playful expressions exchanged between Jason and Leo. Suppressing an impending laugh, a test of willpower, became my sole focus.

"I'm fine, babe. Any chance we could meet up soon? I'm sure you've seen the news," Rae's voice flowed through the phone, tinged with relief.

"Yeah, I did. I was worried you might get tangled up in this mess, but I trust you to hold your own," I reassured, my worry concealed beneath a veneer of certainty but I was absolutely sure that she would be fine.

Her laughter rippled through the line, soothing my concerns. However, her mirth vanished as swiftly as it came. "Tom, help," she uttered, her voice waning, overshadowed by a thudding sound that echoed from her end.

"Rae, Rae!!! What's going on?" I barked into the phone, my urgency laid bare on my tone.

The line remained silent, her response withheld. The soundscape transformed, infiltrated by echoing footfalls and the crisp crackle of a walkie-talkie. "Raven has been secured. Moving on to the next target. Roger."

A veil of uncertainty shrouded me—was the military the driving force behind this or not? Nevertheless, I pledged that they would pay a steep price for their actions, a price measured in lives. If even a hint of harm befell Raven, I would ensure they'd rue the day they set their sights on her.

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