Chapter 61 - Unyielding General Kneels to None - Part 10

Earth- DC- Hall of Justice

After successfully repelling the Kryptonian forces from Earth, the heroes convened at their headquarters, the Hall of Justice, to regroup and strategize ahead.

As the founding members gathered around the round table, each took their respective seats. Joining via video conference were the rest of the Bat Family, Team Flash, and representatives from the Military.

General Swanwick, accompanied by General Lane on the call, broke the silence with an encouraging assessment. "Your teams have successfully stopped the Kryptonians on all three fronts. Team Beta in Themyscira neutralized the enemy, while Team Gamma, despite their late arrival, saved the leaders of Atlantis and captured an enemy soldier, forcing the other Kryptonian to retreat. Here, on the domestic front, Team Alpha also forced a retreat. Given that our foes are Kryptonians, I would say you've performed admirably, ladies and gentlemen of the Justice League."

Superman, however, was not as easily placated. He responded, "Not good enough." His tone turned somber as he paused. "Despite giving it our all, there were still some we failed to protect."

Batman, nodded in agreement. "No one is denying that, Superman. We must acknowledge what happened but, move on. The tragedies and lives we couldn't save should serve as a reminder to us to strive harder, to ensure that the number of people we fail to protect keeps reducing in future engagements."

Flash chimed in, "I agree with Batman, Superman. Despite your power, you are but one man. Also, it's clear that our enemies are not just Kryptonians; they are skilled warriors."

Batman projected images and videos of Superman's intense fight with Faora onto the screen for all to see. "From this footage, it's clear they are trained soldiers with lethal combat techniques," he said, his voice reverberating in the silent room.

The league members watched intently as the video displayed the brutal ferocity and skill of their enemies. Hawkgirl broke the silence, "She is definitely skilled."

"She is more than just skilled," Wonder Woman added, her eyes locked on the screen. "Look at her movements, the way she parries Superman's attacks. She uses his momentum against him with such precision. That requires not only skill but extensive battle experience."

Aquaman, having fought a Kryptonian himself, agreed, "I concur. The one I fought underwater, where the environment was advantageous for me, was formidable. But the one you fought, Superman, is clearly more skilled. Brother, Team Alpha performed well given the opponent you faced. Shake off that guilt. We still have the final battle ahead of us."

Hal Jordan, the Green Lantern, chimed in, "Aquaman is right, Supes. From my point of view, only Wonder Woman, with her newly awakened form, could have potentially bested this warrior. Her martial prowess, combined with this new transformation, arguably makes her the strongest among us."

Superman, while appreciative of his comrades' support, was intrigued by Hal's claim about Wonder Woman's transformation. The rest of the group shared his curiosity, with the exception of Hawkgirl, who had witnessed the power firsthand at Themyscira. Superman turned to Wonder Woman, curiosity clear in his eyes, "Really? Wonder Woman, is this new form of yours that formidable?"

Wonder Woman simply nodded in response, her gaze steady on Superman. "However," she added, "at the moment, I can only maintain that form for fifteen minutes. I need to train with Orach to strengthen my ability to handle the power that comes with the transformation." She clenched her fist, determination in her eyes.

"Dude, you all should have seen her," Hal chimed in, his tone was like a fanboy. "Pink sparks surrounding her, her hair dancing about and some of it lifting up. It was chilling to see her in that form attack the Kryptonian warrior. She literally drove him into the ground, stomped on his back breaking it, and then, to finish the job, she beheaded him! It was an incredible sight!"

However, the revelation of Wonder Woman's lethal blow, even after the enemy had been subdued, left Superman, Batman, Flash, Cyborg, and the Bat Family in shock. Superman rose from his seat, his expression filled with disbelief, "Wonder Woman, why did you kill him when you had him subdued?"

"Yeah, Wonder Woman, as heroes, we don't kill," Flash echoed Superman's sentiments. Cyborg, although in agreement with Superman and Flash, refrained from speaking out of respect for Orach.

Batman, his gaze narrowing in thought, asked, "Wonder Woman, did you sense something from him that justified such a drastic step?"

Wonder Woman was prepared for comments on her actions from her comrades, but she was surprised when Batman asked his question. She replied with a nod, "Yes. That power comes from my God Ki. In that form, I can sense more. During our battle, I felt his rage, disgust towards us, and killing intent aimed at my sisters. After witnessing the suffering he caused, I ended the battle in my capacity as the princess of Themyscira." She paused and looked straight at Superman, "Also, Superman, I want to clarify something. I don't like to kill, so I supported the Phantom Zone plan. But if it's necessary, I WILL." She emphasized every last word.

Superman and the rest of the group fell silent at her declaration. They wanted to argue, but her tone suggested no room for disagreement. They needed her on their team, and they knew that confronting her could lead to trouble, even if they managed to subdue her newfound power. They would still have to face the wrath of Orach upon his return.

Batman, nodded thoughtfully and redirected the conversation back to the pressing issue at hand. "Superman, let's refocus," his voice instantly drawing the attention of the room back to him. "There's a question that's been bothering me," he continued, his gaze settling on Superman. "The lead woman amongst the duo who attacked Metropolis mentioned that their General wanted to speak to you and Lois. I have a hunch that they are less interested in recruiting you to their side and more interested in something else you possess. Do you have anything they might need?"

In response to Batman's query, Superman fell silent. He pondered, trying to understand why the enemy leader was so eager to converse with him and what they expected from him, but he found no clear answer.

Batman, noticing Superman's confusion, swiftly shifted gears. "Team Gamma, didn't you take a prisoner? Where is he?" Batman asked. "We need information about the Kryptonians' objectives. Can you bring him here?" He directed his question to Aquaman, the leader of Team Gamma.

Aquaman exchanged a quick, silent glance with Cyborg. After receiving an affirmative nod, Cyborg rose from his seat and moved towards their captive, a Kryptonian they had captured and rendered unconscious. The captive was contained within a prison lit by lamps that produced light imitating a red sun, effectively neutralizing his Kryptonian abilities.

As Cyborg dragged the prison into the room, Batman turned to Wonder Woman. "Be ready with the Lasso of Truth," he instructed her. Then, he turned back to Cyborg and added, "Wake him up."

In response, Cyborg modified his hand cannon to produce a jolt that would be effective on a Kryptonian. A jolt of energy startled the captive awake. Wonder Woman, quick as a flash, stepped forward and secured him with her Lasso of Truth.

"AAArrghhh…Where…where am I? What is with this red light? Why do I feel weak? What is happening?" Dev-Em, the captive Kryptonian, mumbled as he came out of his stupor.

Wide-eyed with fear and confusion, he scanned the room under the lasso's influence. His gaze fell on each member, lingering on Superman. A flicker of recognition, followed by a wave of resentment, passed through his eyes.

"You will answer our questions," said Wonder Woman in a commanding tone as the lasso took effect. Dev-Em became dazed and replied, "Yes, Ma'am." Wonder Woman nodded at Batman to begin his questioning.

Batman took a step forward and asked, "What is your name and affiliation?"

"Dev-Em, part of Sword of Rao under General Zod," he replied.

Batman narrowed his eyes and asked, "What is General Zod's goal?"

"General Zod wants to revive Krypton," responded Dev-Em.

Upon hearing this, Superman was shaken. He had previously believed he was the last son of Krypton, and after learning about his people's advancements, he too had wished to revive Krypton's culture.

"And how does General Zod plan on accomplishing that?" Batman continued, his voice was steady but with hidden tension. Dev-Em, seemingly not bothered by Batman's intimidating appearance, started to explain.

"We possess a device known as a world engine. When deployed under the guidance of the mothership, it has the ability to alter the planetary conditions of this world, effectively transforming it into a new Krypton," he said, his voice echoing in the silent room.

"Moreover," he continued, "the head of the House of El, Jor-El, had stolen the genetic codex of our people. This codex contains the potential genetic blueprints of the Kryptonian race. He supposedly sent it to this world along with his son, Kal-El, in the hopes that one day Kal-El would use it to revive our race."

He paused before adding, "Once we retrieve the codex from Kal-El, we can adopt Jor-El's plan and use the Genesis Chamber on the mothership to incubate Kryptonian infants. With the terraformation of this world and the birth of new Kryptonians, we can bring back Krypton."

Batman, upon hearing the plan of terraforming Earth, grew more serious. He could feel a chill run down his spine as he understood the implications of their plan. The complete transformation of Earth would not only change the planet's physical conditions but also have drastic consequences for all its current inhabitants.

"And what about the inhabitants of Earth?" Batman asked, his voice barely above a whisper. He already knew the answer, but he needed to hear it aloud to confirm his fears.

Dev-Em's expression remained unchanged as he replied, "The new foundations must be built on something. The current inhabitants... will not survive the process or the new environment. They will... die."

Hearing the plans of the Kryptonians, everyone present at the meeting was shocked by the lengths to which these Kryptonians would go to resurrect their dead world.

Superman was in dismay at what his kin were planning.

"No way!" exclaimed Batgirl and Robin.

"This… this is madness!" Flash exclaimed as he rose from his seat.

"Yes. I understand and sympathize with the Kryptonians, but sacrificing an entire race? That's crossing a line," Aquaman said in a serious tone.

"They can't be allowed to succeed," Wonder Woman declared, her gaze turning icy.

"They can't. The Guardians won't stand for this. I'll immediately send a message to Oa for them to interfere," Hal stated.

"How long would that take? We don't have time to wait for your friends to arrive," Hawkman responded.

"I agree. We have to be the ones to defend this world. This is our home!" Hawkgirl affirmed.

Hearing the Kryptonians' plans and the League's argument, General Swanwick and Lane were shaken. However, as experienced men, they remained calm and noticed that Batman had stayed silent after hearing the plan.

"Batman, thoughts?" asked Swanwick. His question halted all arguments and drew everyone's attention to Batman, who appeared to be contemplating the Kryptonian's words.

In response to the General's question, Batman turned to Superman, "Superman, where is this codex? Is it in your fortress?"

"Batman, until now, I wasn't aware that I had something like that. It's best if I go to the fortress and ask my AI for details," Superman replied.

"I'll accompany you. We need to find that codex. Its importance to Zod is clear. If necessary, it can be used as a bargaining chip to force him to leave Earth. At the very least, it should be hidden in a location we control, but you are unaware of," Batman proposed.

"...Batman. If possible, I would like to keep the codex safe. It represents hope for the resurrection of the Kryptonians in the future. I could teach them to be better. I understand using it as leverage against Zod, but let's try to defeat him without resorting to using the codex," Superman responded to Batman's idea.

Batman, understanding the significance of the codex, gave a solemn nod. He could empathize with Superman's aspiration to revive Krypton in his own vision, a vision of peace and coexistence.

"Superman, with all due respect, we need to get rid of that device. It's dangerous. If the wrong people get it, we could have an army of Kryptonians at our door. I know you want to keep your race alive, but there are other ways. Don't you have a partner? Having kids with her can keep Kryptonian culture alive," said General Swanwick. General Lane, Lois Lane's father and standing next to General Swanwick, didn't say anything. He was torn between thinking like a soldier and a potential father-in-law.

Superman was confused and a bit upset. Swanwick's argument about the possible misuse of the genetic template made sense. Plus, Swanwick's idea that his children with Lois could bring back the Kryptonian race and culture felt right to him.

At this juncture, Batman tapped the table, drawing everyone's attention. He spoke decisively, "We can continue this discussion later. First, we need to understand the codex - its composition, and the methods to utilize it remain obscure. I propose Superman and I head to the fortress to learn more. Meanwhile, General Swanwick, I suggest you monitor the Kryptonian ship's movements. Please keep us updated about the deployment of the World Engine device and its landing location. Additionally, depending on its size and operation, I would request the military to take the lead in its destruction after consulting us. This way, we can make an informed decision and prepare for any potential consequences. Robin and Batgirl I want you prepare my specialized equipment and keep me posted. The rest of Leaguers, prepare for battle and be on stand by."

Everyone agreed with Batman's plan. Batman and Superman quickly set off for the Fortress of Solitude. Upon arrival, Batman was impressed by the structure and technology, but remained stoic as usual. Superman immediately went to the main console to activate the AI modeled after his birth father, Jor'El. They quickly asked the AI about the codex.

Initially surprised by the question, the AI asked why they wanted to know about the codex. Once informed about the current situation, the AI explained Jor'El's intentions for sending the codex with Kal'El, also known as Superman. Jor'El wanted Kal'El to understand the world's inhabitants, guide them, and potentially use the codex to revive the Kryptonians with the ultimate goal of peaceful coexistence.

Later, they learned that the codex wasn't a separate device or item, but was mixed within Clark's cells. Essentially, each of Clark's cells had the potential to be a Kryptonian. This revelation shocked both Batman and Superman. When they asked if the codex could be extracted from Superman, the AI explained that doing so would kill him.

Batman asked the AI if it could create a fake codex. Upon learning about Zod, the survival of the Sword of Rao, and their plans for Earth, the AI expressed concern and agreed to assist Batman with his plan. Batman explained that they could use the fake codex against the enemy while keeping the real codex, or Superman, safe. This would also satisfy the military personnel if they believed the codex was a physical object that could be destroyed.

Superman nodded in agreement. After they finished creating the dummy, they both received an alert from the Military. The ship had split in two, with one half headed to the South Indian Ocean and the other towards Metropolis. Batman surmised that the Kryptonians would want a face-to-face meeting with Superman, so the half heading to the Indian Ocean must be the World Engine.

Later, he advised the Military to assess the situation on the World Engine front and suggested that Cyborg and Aquaman assist in the effort as well. If it could be safely destroyed, the Military should handle it. Meanwhile, the rest would gather in Metropolis to wait for the Kryptonians.

Once the deployment plan was established, the Justice League members set off. Batman asked Superman to drop by his Manor first. Before they left, the AI warned them about Zod's ruthless nature and his relentlessness in achieving his goals. Both Superman and Batman acknowledged this and made a mental note to approach their encounter with Zod cautiously.

Later, they met with Robin and Batgirl at the Batcave. They gave Batman a notably heavier utility belt. Superman was surprised to find he couldn't see through the belt, which led him to suspect the type of weaponry it contained. This made him uneasy, but given they were about to confront his kin, he understood the necessity.

After dissuading the young heroes' from assisting in Metropolis by explaining they were needed in Gotham to aid the GCPD when panic ensued, Batman and Superman flew towards Metropolis, leaving behind a pair of grumbling teenagers.

Soon, all the heroes gathered in Metropolis. The city had been partially evacuated due to the previous attack. The army, had already split into two groups, prepared to confront the enemy. One group, led by General Lane, was heading to the South Indian Ocean, while the other, under General Swanwick, was ready to join forces with the Justice League in Metropolis. Swanwick had armed his elite squad with their Kryptonite arsenal and coordinated other squads to ensure citizen safety.

Batman and Superman had already discussed a battle plan with General Swanwick on their way to Metropolis. The plan was to have Superman, Wonder Woman, and the Hawk couple lead the charge, while Flash, Batman, and Green Lantern would attack from the sides and above. The army would provide support as needed.

As all members of the Justice League took their positions, the sky above Metropolis began to darken. A large shadow loomed overhead, and their eyes were drawn upward to the sight of the Kryptonian mothership descending into the city's airspace. In just a few minutes, they saw figures emerging from the ship, each one flying into a formation that directly faced the Justice League.

Superman immediately recognized one of the figures, Nadira, who had previously attacked Metropolis. His fists clenched at the sight of her, anger surging through him. He was reminded of the devastation she had caused and the lives that were lost. But he held his position, reminding himself of the plan they they agreed upon. Similarly, Hawkman spotted Car-Vex in their ranks. His grip on his axe tightened, ready for the battle that was about to ensue.

After a moment, the Kryptonians split into two halves, creating a path in the middle. The formation was disciplined, and a salute was given, a clear sign of respect to the three figures who emerged last from the ship. The whole scene had an air of a royal procession, an organized demonstration of power and hierarchy. The three figures moved forward, led by a man of tall stature with black hair, donned in armor. The other two were one woman whom they had an interaction with, and an unknown Kryptonian who resembled a scholar. They walked through the pathway made by the other Kryptonians.

The Justice League watched in silence, their senses heightened. The reverence, discipline, and respect displayed by the saluting Kryptonians left little room for doubt. They were now witnessing the infamous General Zod in person. His presence seemed to radiate an aura of authority and power, demanding respect.

As Zod and his two followers arrived at the front, the other Kryptonians saluting fell back into their previous formation, demonstrating their readiness to attack on Zod's command at a moment's notice.

As Zod surveyed the scene, his gaze was drawn to the figure hovering in the air, a man adorned with the symbol of the House of El. He closely examined this man, this Superman, who was observing him as well. Zod nodded and spoke,"We finally meet, heir to the prestigious House of El, Kal-El. I am General Zod, leader of the Sword of Rao, commander of these Kryptonian brothers and sisters you see before you. We are the remnants, the final echo of the once mighty Kryptonian Empire," Zod gestured expansively, his arms sweeping out to encompass his assembled force before he brought them down again, his eyes never leaving Superman's.

"Your house, one of the ruling and respected houses, has been, for generations, a beacon of scientific advancement on Krypton. Renowned for its contributions to our technological progress. In fact, your father was one of the greatest scientists Krypton had seen in ages. His early detection of anomalies in our planet's core, coupled with his tireless efforts to persuade the council to cease their destructive actions, despite facing ridicule and dismissal, had earned my respect and admiration." Zod's voice carried a note of respect, tinged with bitterness.

His tone then became more personal, a touch of melancholy seeping into his words. "On a personal note, I was your family's friend. Both my wife and I were close with your parents, Jor-El and Lara Lor-Van. Your mother was even under my command a few times. If Krypton still existed, if our differing viewpoints hadn't led to a fallout, I believe you and my son, had he had the chance to grow up, would have been friends," Zod said, his eyes flickering closed momentarily as he lost himself in a fleeting memory of what once was and what could have been.

Shaking off the moment of nostalgia, his eyes reopened, hardened with determination. "But we don't have the luxury of dwelling in 'what if's', do we, Kal-El? I've heard from Faora, whom you've already met," he gestured to Faora, "that you've chosen to protect this world and its inhabitants, rather than join your own kin. Therefore, I won't waste my breath asking you to stand by our side. However," his expression hardened, his voice growing cold and demanding, "I insist that you hand over the Codex in your possession. That Codex is our hope, our chance for survival! I must have it to bring Krypton back!"

Superman, who had been listening along with the other defenders, replied, "Zod, ever since I learned about Krypton, its people, and advancements, I yearned to revive Krypton as well. So, I understand where you're coming from." Superman's expression became serious, "BUT, I would never do it at the expense of billions of innocent lives."

Upon hearing these words, Zod narrowed his gaze with anger slowly building up, "It seems you know about the World Engine. Did you take prisoners? Did you actually torture one of your brethren for information for these ants?"

Superman replied, "Yes. We know about the World Engine and we cannot allow it to operate on this world. We did take prisoners and are ready to hand them over in exchange for you leaving Earth. Zod, why choose Earth? Why can't you find another suitable planet?" asked Superman earnestly.

"We choose to make this world ours for the same reasons why Jor'El chose to send you here. It's the perfect place for our empire to make a return. So, why waste time and resources to look for another?" Zod said dismissively.

Superman wanted to argue back, but Zod interjected, "ENOUGH! Kal'El, hand over the Codex, surrender, and KNEEL BEFORE ZOD!" His voice boomed throughout the urban streets of Metropolis.

At this point, everyone on the urban battlefield knew the dialogue had broken down and the fight of their lives was about to begin.

"Sorry, Zod. I kneel to none!" Superman shouted in response to Zod.

With a cold gaze, Zod responded, "Very well. Like father, like son. Sword of Rao, commence operation!" His voice once again boomed across the battlefield.

Upon hearing their general's command, the Kryptonians initiated the attack. They charged towards the defenders with all their might, ready to crush these ants.

"Justice League, attack!" Wonder Woman shouted, raising her sword in the air. With that, all defenders of Earth, whether Justice League members or the Army, charged ahead as well. This marked the beginning of a skirmish that would echo throughout this universe and draw the attention of its most powerful beings.