Adult-FanFiction.org : Comics

Celestial Sensations	By : FireCracker Category: DC Verse Comics > Batman Views: 3371 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own the Batman Franchise or character. Both are properties of DC Comics. No money is made from this fiction.

Chapter List
- 7
- 8
- 9
CHAPTER EIGHT : MONSTERS AND MAYHEM
“What the hell?!” Bruce pulled up. Superman was instantly on his feet in defense.
“Whoever you are, make no moves. I’ll only say it once!!”
“You’re in no position to give orders, mortal.”
Bruce struck a side panel and grabbed two glass vials, taking a defensive stance. “This is my house. Come out of that cloud now!”
The cloud rapidly dissipated. Out stepped a woman and two men. They appeared to be of humanoid type. Pale blue skin, ice white hair. All three were dressed in stylized body armor. One male was tall and somewhat long limbed, though muscular. The other was shorter and thick chested. The female was rather tall with voluptuous curves. A long braid twisted down her back in an elaborate pattern. The males sported pony tails and wild bangs. Bruce noted their eyes, a green reminding him of tropical reefs in the summer. And something else. All were stunningly attractive, even by human standards.
And then he saw their tails. Long and snakelike, the appendages were covered in chrome like armor plating.
“Stay back.” Clark took a step forward. He threw out an arm protectively. “Heartbeats, Bruce. Demons.”
The Bat wasn’t one to let others do his fighting, despite the fact he was out of gear. “Figures. The question is, why are they here?”
The demons laughed, their voices having a husky undertone. Sharpened teeth showed brightly over purple tongues.
“Oh, I like this one already.” The woman turned to the others. “He made a good choice, don’t you think?”
The stocky one eyed Clark strangely. “Superman is still possessive, though. Is he still in the mix? If so, we’ll have to correct that situation.”
“Agreed, Godol. But perhaps we can have fun in the meantime. What’s that human expression? When the cat’s away, the mice will play.”
“His flesh is quite firm, eh?”
“Nice. I’ve never had a Kryptonian before.”
Superman was angry. “Give me a break. What is all this?!”
“You won’t have one now, either.” Bruce warned. “See these vials? If you idiots don’t stop babbling and explain yourselves, I’ll toss them.”
The trio looked at each other briefly before the female spoke. “I am Serona. To my left is Anduu, the right, Godol.”
Bruce lowered the vials slightly. “What have you come for? I don’t know you.”
Serona smiled with teeth deliberately. “Our purposes are our own. However, you could say we’re here to see the scenery.”
Clark stared at Bruce. “Riddles? Who has time for this?”
Anduu raised his hand, floating a book across the room. “Educated, it appears. Family heirlooms.”
“Hold it.” Bruce shouted. “That isn’t yours. Put it back!”
The handsome demon opened the book and glanced through. “In my good time. Horatio Hornblower? Yes, you appear the type.”
“Whoever…whatever you are, I want you gone.” Bruce insisted.
“Forceful, aren’t you?” Godol glided about the study, observing the furniture. “No wonder he finds you attractive. Of course, even alphas have weaknesses. And he fears no challenge, no one.”
Serona approached Clark. “We aren’t here to harm you. Not this time, anyway.”
“You don’t belong here. In this house, on this plane.”
“Time and space mean nothing to us, Superman. Your friend Bruce Wayne is a concern of ours.”
“How so?” Bruce wanted to know. “You crash my mansion, talk in circles and explain nothing. Now for the last time, what do you want?”
Anduu smiled casually. “We want to make certain he’s not making a mistake in choosing you.”
Bruce gasped at the implication. “What are you talking about? And how do you know me?”
Piercing green eyes didn’t waver. “Come, Bruce. You’re an intelligent man. Use your famous detective skills.”
“You may feel the effects of my skills in a minute. I’m tired, and don’t have time for demonic dissertations.”
“The mortal has a mouth on him, doesn’t he?.” Godel snarled, tail lashing. “Perhaps we should close it permanently.”
“I’ll close yours.” Clark warned. “And don’t think you’re proof to my powers, even if you have mystic ability.”
“Fortunately for you we’re in a good mood. Your threats are of no interest.” Anduu leaned against a bookcase. “Most of his mortals have been betas. But it’s been three centuries since he’s done an alpha. He considers gammas fun but more dime a dozen.”
Bruce looked to Clark in exasperation. “Am I asleep or something?”
“I think we both are, Bruce. But I have a feeling our ‘guests’ won’t disappear when we wake up.”
“Who is this ‘he’ the three of you keep referring to?” Bruce wanted to know.
“The Phantom Stranger.” Godol replied.
Bruce was incredulous.“What?”
Serona smiled his way, coiling her tail. “I admit we came on a bit scattershot. Three days of constant drinking will do that, even to those of our constitution.”
“Just tell me why you’re here!”
“To check you out.”
“Why?”
“To see if you’re suitable for the Stranger. Passion tends to cloud his judgment.”
Bruce looked at Clark, who shrugged in confusion. “What business is it of yours what the Stranger does? His affairs are his own.”
“Truer words were never spoken, Bruce Wayne. Suffice to say, anything concerning the Stranger interests us. His business is our business.”
“Again, why? I don’t see the connection. What do you hope to gain by this visit?”
Godol licked his lips. “A close in view. Your reputation precedes you, even in our circles.”
Clark kept staring at the demons. “Bruce, there’s a connection here we’re not seeing.”
Bruce nodded quickly. “You’re right. This could be a diversion of some sort.”
“I don’t mean that-“
Godol waved a gesture. “If it will alleviate your concerns, know this. We’re merely here for information, to see if the Stranger’s judgment is sound.”
“I hardly think he needs help in that department.” Bruce responded.
Anduu was indifferent. “Look at his reaction, Godol. He thinks we’re lying.”
Clark moved to Bruce’s side. “Bruce. Something about them is familiar. I can’t put a finger on it-“
“We’re here to observe, not you. Kryptonian senses or not, don’t presume to know us.”
“So why is your nose in the Stranger’s business?”
“Because we know him, far better than you. He’s done this many times over.”
Bruce sparked at that. “Done what? Say what you mean!”
“Every so often he takes a mortal to bed. Occasionally he falls in love. But it’s gotten him in trouble with-“
“You’ve said enough!” Serona interrupted quickly. “We’ve found out what we need to know.”
Bruce was suspicious. “How are you involved with the Stranger?”
Before the demoness could answer, a flash of fire appeared in their midst.
“Now what?!” Clark wondered aloud. Swirling smoke lifted in the air.
“It’s about time you two showed up.” Godol folded his arms.
Anduu watched the smoke clear. “Take it easy on them. You know their teleportation spells are rusty.”
In stunned surprise, Bruce and Clark stared at two serpents twined in a pile. They were huge, nearly thick as a water main. One was crystal white and shone like glass; the other was an iridescent deep blue with flecks of color. Both had white eyes.
The blue snake spoke first. “Anduu’s right. These interdimensional spells can be tricky. Besides, we don’t wander around nearly as much as you three.”
“Well if you got out more it wouldn’t be a problem.” Serona scolded.
The snakes untangled themselves. Long necks straightened as they looked around.
“An impressive home.” The white snake commented. “So this is the abode of his chosen one.”
Bruce found his voice. “Excuse me. Who the devil are you two?”
The snakes appeared to smile, heads bobbing. “We also follow the Stranger’s exploits. I am Nuguri.” The blue one stated.
“And I am Hazat.” The white one replied. Bruce noted the blue one was slimmer, with a feminine voice.
Clark held his chin, thinking. “I know you, all of you. All I need is time to figure it out.”
“More to the point, how do we get them out of here?” Bruce wanted to know. “Magic isn’t your strong suit and I don’t know anything about them.”
Hazat flicked a purple tongue. “I see why he wants this one. Quite intelligent and most pleasing to the eye. He even smells good.”
“Yes, yes.” Nuguri shifted forward. Hazat and the others paced her, coming at Bruce. “A closer look, everyone. No, a taste!”
Godol agreed, tail coiling. “Good idea, Nuguri. A feast for the sight and senses!”
“Back!!” Clark jumped in front of Bruce, blasting the floor with heat vision. The demons halted temporarily.
“Superman, my floor! You’re going to fix that.”
“Would you rather be ‘tasted’ by your friends here?”
“No. Listen to me, all of you! I still have these vials.” Bruce held two bottles high. “Make another move and you’ll discover what’s in them the hard way!”
Anduu licked his lips nastily. “More empty threats. And it appears your Kryptonian has a few tricks! How delightful-“
CRASH.
Everyone stared up in amazement as a blue and black garbed figure burst through a window, shattering it. Nightwing hurtled through the air and landed gracefully on his feet. Shards of glass rained everywhere.
“Is everyone trying to destroy my home?” Bruce complained.
Nightwing took in the scene. “Alfred cued me after the alpha one box went off. What the hell is all this? The zookeepers open the gates?”
Godol snarled, teeth sharp. “Another wise ass mortal. He’s not important to the Stranger, though. I say we kill him!”
“Not so easy as that, sunshine.” Dick held up his nunchucks. “Coated in silver, dipped in holy water. You might not like that.”
“Scum!” Serona snarled. “Don’t make the mistake of thinking we can’t deal with you permanently.”
“Got something for you too, doll. Although demon chicks are trouble, so I hear.”
Serona smiled seductively. “This ‘chick’ would eat you whole. You’d die happy and dismembered.”
“Dick, don’t antagonize them.” Bruce warned. “I have no idea what their capabilities are other than teleportation.”
That sent the demons into a round of hysterics. Shrill, inhuman laughter filled the air.
“The world’s greatest detective.”Godol mocked. “You may not know who we are, but I suspect your Kryptonian friend does!”
“He’s right.” Clark had a sudden insight. “I wasn’t certain at first, but I am now.”
“I’d ask why you’re here, but it can wait.” Nightwing commented coolly. “So who are the rejects from the pet store?”
“Be warned, mortal.” Hazat hissed loudly. “I sense you are important to the Stranger’s chosen one. It will buy you one insult but not another. Speak cautiously.”
Dick noted the size of the serpents for the first time. “I’ll keep that in mind.”
Superman pointed at the demons. “Monsters, Bruce. All terrors in antiquity, known for their atrocities to ancient civilizations. Induit. Aztec. Islamic. Mesopotamian. Even Egyptian. These aren’t minor demons broke loose out of hell.”
“But how do you know all this?” Nightwing asked.
“Diana told me. Thousands of years ago they overran Thymescryia and nearly destroyed it. It took the combined might of the amazons and Olympians to defeat them.”
Anduu tossed his head haughtily, tail slashing the air. “Strength is in our blood, Superman. We walk the universe unfettered. We go where we will, do what we want. None stay our course. And those who try suffer to their everlasting regret.”
“From the records Diana showed me, I have every reason to believe you.”
“Wonder Woman is your friend? How interesting.” Nuguri bobbed her head. “That is good to know for future information.”
“Clark! Who are they, exactly?” Bruce wanted to know.
“The Monsters of Loethe, spawn of Tyfon. Legendary avatars of destruction and chaos. Even hell lords disdain them.”
Godol bowed with pride. “But most fair to look at, all agree.”
Bruce was incredulous. “The terrors of myth?”
“Aye, beautiful one!” Anduu smiled wickedly. “Black Adam himself mentions our names with dread. We cracked the Rock of Eternity.”
“What power could do that?!” Nightwing couldn’t believe.
“Our power. And none take our name in vain.” Serona snarled. “But enough pleasantries. Come, brothers and sister. Time to claim what’s ours!”
“Over my kryptonian butt.” Superman challenged. “Let’s take this outside.”
“Let’s take it nowhere.” Serona gestured quickly. Superman instantly turned to stone.
Bruce grabbed his immobilized friend. “Clark!!”
“Bruce, move away. I can’t get them all if they charge!” Nightwing warned, raising his sticks. Serona turned his way.
“A doomed gambit, mortal. Though I find you attractive, you too must be stopped.” Dick was frozen next.
Bruce fought icy fear gripping his heart. Two men he had cared for…no, loved. Turned to statues. My fault.
“My fault.” Bruce said bitterly.
“How noble. How ridiculous.” Godol smirked. “Not to worry, Bruce. When we’re done with you, your friends won’t matter!”
“Do what you will, demons. But promise me you’ll free them.”
Anduu shrugged. “I don’t see why not. Now come to your fate, Bruce Wayne. We will taste and embrace you.”
“Suck on his soul!” Hazat shouted.
“Yes!!” Nuguri hissed. The demons rushed Bruce in a grab. Inhuman lips kissed, tongues licking his face and neck. Hands tugging at his robe, pressing him down…
So this is how it ends. He thought grimly, standing immobile against their touches.
A blinding flash destroyed all color and light. Thunderclap force hurled them all to the floor, mortal and immortal alike.
KRAKKOOOOM!!!
Everyone lay stunned, sprawled awkwardly in a heap. Bruce blinked rapidly, momentarily losing his vision from the brightness. The room went suddenly dim and murky.
“YOU DARE?!”
The imposing figure of Phantom Stranger stood in a plume of dark fire, cloak swirling in curls of smoke. A black gloved hand pointed in accusation and retribution. His face was hidden in shadow save for eyes blazing like suns.
Silence.
“This one is not for you.” The Stranger intoned gravely.
“We…meant no offense.” Godol said quietly, sitting up.
“I am offended.” Stranger glanced over at Bruce. “Are you all right?”
“I will be.”
Glowing eyes shifted. “Sedona.” He barked.
The demoness lowered her head a little. “Yes?”
“Change Superman and Nightwing back. I sense your touch on them.”
“But-“
“Now.”
“Go ahead, Sedona. Or he’ll start hurling bolts.” Hazat curled in a huge clump and tucked his head away.
“You’re a coward, brother. Go roll up at home!” Godol snarled. “Pathetic.”
The Stranger glowered at them all. “It will be pathetic for all of you shortly.” At Sedona again: “I won’t repeat myself.”
The demoness snapped her fingers, releasing the spell. Dick nearly fell over from sudden motion.
“The hell’s going on?”
Clark looked up in surprise. “Phantom Stranger! What brings you here?”
“These, I’m afraid.” He gestured at the surly demons.
“I know who they are.” Superman glared at the inhuman group. “But what’s their connection to you?”
The Stranger didn’t respond immediately, but Bruce had a growing suspicion. It can’t be. Is it what I’m thinking? They look like-
“Superman, the resemblance!”
Keen Kryptonian raked over them, then Phantom Stranger. “Impossible.” He finally said.
“Stranger!” Bruce demanded. “Who are these demons! I have a right to know.”
Anduu snarled, lashing his tail. “Shut up, mortal. And make no demands here. It’s just lucky for you we were courteous!”
The Stranger adjusted his fedora and turned to them. “Enough! Now I want an answer. Why are you here on earth, annoying my friends and damaging property?”
“We were only here for fun, father dear.”
“Father!!” Nightwing blurted, finding his voice. “That’s insane!”
Bruce likewise stared in shock. “Stranger-“
The Phantom Stranger sighed. “I must apologize, Bruce. My tasks kept me away, and I had no idea this would happen.”
“This is crazy.” Superman finally said. “You’re Tyfon? It makes no sense!”
“I’ve had many identities, and-“
“You’re such a wet blanket at times.” Sedona complained. “We only came to see your new toy.”
“He isn’t a toy, girl.”
“Easily breakable, though.”
“You’ve made monsters?!” Bruce was angry. “How could you keep something like that secret from the League?”
Stranger tipped his fedora. “How would you have me announce it, Bruce? All immortals have secrets.”
“Not like this!”
“But why?” Superman was dismayed. “I thought you were-“
“A ‘good guy?’ “ Hazat popped his head up, mocking. “But I should expect no less from someone dressed in primary colors. A soul so pure, so disgusting.”
“Coming from someone like you that’s a compliment.”
Godol put a hand on the Stranger’s shoulder. “Oh, there’s something to mention. Mother claims she’s feeling pains again.”
The Stranger turned in shock. “What? What pains!”
A snicker. “Beats the hell out of me. Something to do with your last visit, I’d wager.”
“Lies! The woman will say anything if it suits her purposes.”
Godol shrugged innocently. “You didn’t climb through a palace window in disguise? Some guards were really buzzing about it.”
Nuguri slithered forward suddenly. “Keep your big mouth shut for once, Godol. We came to fetch him home.”
The Stranger stiffened. “I go nowhere.”
The blue snake hissed loudly. “Let’s not get ugly, daddy dear. We’ll wreck this place if necessary. Your precious mortal may suffer injury.”
“Nuguri’s right.” Godol moved at his father. “She wants you back again, you know. And soon it will be time for the prophecy!”
“I could care less.” The Stranger stood his ground as they all advanced. “Back! Beware what you do.”
Superman moved. “Do you need help-“
A black glove waved him off. “No. If you will indulge me, Bruce. I’ll have them out of here shortly.”
“Gladly!” Bruce glared.
Anduu chimed in next. “We’ll not be so easily dismissed, father. Earth is so interesting these days! We plan to stay and enjoy all sorts of delights.”
“I’ll not turn my back and have you running loose on earth. Neither you nor your wretched siblings.”
The demons cackled with delight at the insult. Hazat lunged at the Stranger, jaws open wide. “You’ll come with us now. We’ll drag you to the Pit if necessary!”
“To the Pit with him!! Back to the Fire!!” they all bellowed, surging forward.
“IDIOTS.” Stranger boomed, eyes crackling with flame. He caught Hazat by the head and shook him senseless. Giant coils flopped helplessly everywhere. In a rare show of strength Stranger slammed the flat head to the floor.
“I peeled your skin before, fool! Should I reward your insolence again?”
“No, father.” Subdued, the huge snake went limp.
The others seemed reluctant to attack after that. Nuguri slithered behind the Stranger suddenly.
Superman pointed. “Look out, she’s making a move-“
“Don’t be concerned, Superman.”
Amazingly, the blue serpent coiled in a shape behind the Stranger. He sat on her like a living throne, crossing his legs neatly.
The other demons rushed around, brushing his cloak and fussing with busy hands. Hazat coiled at his feet.
“Freaky.” Was all Nightwing could say. “I feel like I’m in an episode of Night Gallery.”
Bruce gawked. He’s sitting there like lord of the universe. Father of monsters!
“You must forgive me.” Stranger addressed Bruce specifically. “I’ve indulged them too long. But they will be sent home with minimal damage.”
Heavy brows knitted. “We’re going to have a long discussion about your taste in women. But not now.”
“No.” Stranger patted the snakes gently, stroking along their length.
Godol gave Bruce the finger. “He’ll do nothing. He loves us too much, despite what he says!”
“Everyone makes mistakes.” Superman was snide.
Godol raised his tail and bent over, slapping himself. “Kiss my natural ass, Kryptonian.”
“It’s clearly time to go.” Stranger deadpanned, lifting his hand. Serona grabbed it.
“Wait! There’s news, father. Mother insists it’s nearly time. The prophecy-“
“Again? I’ll hear no more of it!” Stranger stood from his serpentine daughter Nuguri. “I want nothing more to do with her, as you well know. Now, all of you stand ready to return home.”
The demons clustered together, mocking with laughter.
“Shall we tell mother to expect you soon?” Godol cackled.
“With sweat and promises!” Anduu cracked.
“Sacrifice and booze!” Sedona snarked.
“Tell her whatever you like.” The Stranger snapped. Smoke lifted from his hand.
Hazat and Nuguri hissed. “Oh, you’re always sick of her…until the next time!”
Their laughter echoed even as they disappeared in a clap of thunder.
()
The Stranger turned to the others. “Now to repair your damage, Bruce.” The wood floor was instantly pristine again. Displaced books and furniture returned to their previous position in the study.
Neither Bruce, Superman, nor Nightwing said a word.
“I know you have questions, and I sense shock.” The Stranger stated. “I can only say that eternity is long. Many situations occur in an immortal’s life. Choices.”
“Even insane ones.” Bruce murmured.
“Perhaps it seems that way. Nature is the structure of the universe.”
Superman shook his head. “Stranger, I don’t know what to think now. This could have a bearing on your League status-“
He has no need of your League, Superman. Only his Queen.
Everyone turned. Dick started back in surprise. “Another one!!”
“Does this ever end?” Bruce stared at the figure that appeared suddenly. Unlike the others, there was no sound at her arrival. She was tall, her face shrouded under a cowl. A flowing purple robe clung to outrageous curves. Her tail was long, slender and undulating. She was blue skinned. Sitting at her feet was a small wolf like demon with a similar snaky tail. The creature was stark white with golden eyes.
“Great, now they’re bringing pets.” Superman commented.
Stranger ignored them, inclining his head slightly. “Loethe.”
Full lips curved in a smile. “Handsome as ever, my love. I’ve missed you.”
“It’s been a long time.”
The others watched their exchange in stunned silence. Loethe glanced down at the wolf creature.
“ Rakka. Go, speak to your father.”
Yowling happily, the wolf thing bounded to the Stranger, leaping into his arms. “Hello, daddy!”
“Hello, my darling. I regret not having visited you lately.”
The small head turned, growling. “Who are these mortals?”sharp teeth snapped the air.
“These are my friends, members of the Justice League.”
“What’s a Justice League? Are their bones good to chew?”
Nightwing facepalmed.
Bruce found his voice, sitting down. “I’m getting popcorn.”
The hooded demoness looked his way. “So, Bruce Wayne. You are my love’s newest mortal conquest.”
“I’m no one’s conquest, madam. And our relationship or lack thereof, is no one’s business but our own.”
Soft, muted laughter. “By the pit. No wonder he chose you! I heartily approve.”
“There was no need for you to come here, Loethe.” Stranger stated. “I sent them all back.”
“Yes, I know. Why were you so rough on the children? It was highly unnecessary. I merely tasked them to bring you home.”
“They wanted to stay. I wouldn’t leave. There was bound to be a problem.”
“Were you really going to skin Hazat?”
“He’s lucky all I did was give him a love tap.”
“I’m glad you didn’t. It always takes a week to get it back on.”
“Let him sulk at home then. I’ve warned him enough times.”
The wolf thing squirmed in Strangers’ arms. “Daddy, can I bite one of the mortals? They smell good!”
“Good grief!” Nightwing complained. “It’ll be dawn before things return to sanity.”
“No it won’t.” the Stranger replied. He petted his small son. “No biting. It’s rude!”
“But why can’t I be rude? You’re always telling me stuff.”
“You’ll understand one day when you have creatures of your own.”
“Great Rao.” Superman murmured incredulously. “This is a fright show.”
“Just some small order of business, dear.” Loethe stated. “My seer has shown me the most recent scenario for crescent moon. Gundass’ crystal ball is never wrong.”
“I only wish to hear about the annulment.”
A snicker. “Funny thing, that. I seem to have lost the documents again. Perhaps for eternity!”
“Loethe-“
“However, if you accompany me now we can continue the prophecy.”
“Is that all you ever think about? You know I rarely remain in place too long!”
“Aye, your propensity for wandering is the reason I sent our offspring after you. It’s been nearly a century.”
“Then this was an elaborate stunt to get me back to the palace?”
“A Queen needs no tricks.”
“I submitted the annulment papers to celestial court myself. How could you possibly have lost them?”
Lush lips smiled again under cowl. “I called in a few favors. And I was told the courts are annoyed with your incessant petitioning for divorce. So they considered it a favor when I lost the paperwork again.”
“You make no sense. I’m not even around, woman! Why do you persist in this?”
“We belong together and will fulfill destiny. It’s fortunate I won you from that street trash, Tala. The woman dared challenge me so I collected her liver as payment. In any case, file away. You’ll never be rid of me.”
The wolf demon yipped in Stranger’s arms. “You should come home, daddy.”
“For God’s sake, say something, Bruce!” Superman implored his friend. Bruce sat stubbornly resting his chin in his hands.

”What the hell for? I just live here. I’ll just watch the movie until the credits roll.”
“Nightwing-“
“Don’t look at me. I think we walked into a soap opera on nightmare street.”
The hooded woman turned their way suddenly. “Ah. There is exasperation in your thoughts.”
“You could say that, yes.” Bruce was snide. “Tell me, is this a typical night with you ‘people’ or whatever you call yourselves?”
“Exasperation, and a question in your minds.” Loethe pulled back her hood suddenly. The men reacted with stunned shock.
She was breathtaking. Rich blue skin accented crystal golden eyes under arched brows. Nearly lime green hair tumbled out in waves, framing her face and trailing to her waist. A jewel decorated the center of her forehead. Lashes like fans went up in a full sweep, framing those eyes with definition. Not to mention she was built like a proverbial brickhouse.
Dick found his voice. “Wow. Just, wow.”
Bruce wasn’t easily impressed by beauty, but she was indescribable. He could see why the Stranger…but no. She was evil, a mother of monsters.
Superman had similar thoughts. He’d known human and alien women, but this was entirely new. More than beauty, pure hotness about her…that tail…
The Stranger moved to her side, clearly not pleased. Loethe smiled and leaned back against him.
“You anger my king with your thoughts, mortals. Now that your primary question is answered, I take my leave.”
Rakka jumped down and ran in circles. “Wait, mother. I haven’t shown father how I can change shape now!”
“Yes, you’ve improved on your transformation spells. Very well, show him before we go.”
“Look!” Rakka shifted, changing to a boy. He was an even paler shade of blue than his siblings, but had the same flawlessly white hair. Golden eyes like Loethe and the signature tail intact. But he looked like the Stranger. They all had his hair.
“Excellent, Rakka. I’m proud of you.” Stranger scuffed the boy’s head. “You’re able to hold it much longer-“
Bruce coughed loudly.
“Yes, well.” Stranger bear hugged the boy. “Go with your mother now.”
A loud pop! Rakka switched back to wolf mode. He sat at Loethe’s feet again.
“The change still takes a great deal of his concentration.”
Stranger nodded. “It’s time to go, Loethe.”
She pulled her hood up. “Of course, my King. Let’s leave this pale sphere and retreat to the royal chambers.”
“You know what I mean!”
Glancing again at Bruce, Loethe whispered in Stranger’s ear. The Stranger raised his eyebrows briefly but said nothing. He showed no further reaction when she finally stopped talking.
What’s that about? Bruce wondered.
“One last warning, love.” Loethe teased her tail around The Stranger. “Don’t make me wait another century. It gets me horny, and when I’m horny I tend to destroy things.”
“You know I don’t respond to threats, Loethe. In turn, I may take action of my own if you move against this world.”
“Ha! We’re still perfect together.”
“It would be a mistake, Loethe.” Superman likewise stated. “Many super humans have the might to oppose you. This isn’t like ancient times where you were considered a goddess.”

”And still am to the likes of you.” She gestured angrily and vanished with Rakka.
Bruce stood, exhaling. “Now that the nonsense is over with-“
POOOOOM.
“Or not.” He stared down the new entry, appearing in sparks of fire and smoke.
Nightwing gaped. “What’s next, a pink elephant?”
It was a dragon. The creature looked about in curiosity, translucent wings fanning. Elegantly proportioned, the thing was blue with retractable claws. Its skin sparkled like chips of stone. A sinuous tail wound about as the dragon sat neatly.
“What is this place?”
Bruce strained to contain himself. “You are in my mansion, Wayne Manor. My name is Bruce Wayne, and-“
“Ah, so you are the one.” The graceful neck turned. “Hello, father.”
The Phantom Stranger nodded. “You’re looking well, my dear.” He rubbed the smooth nose.
Nightwing spoke to the others. “Follow me here, guys. The reference is dated, but does this feel like Father Knows Best Meets The Munsters?”
The dragon turned. “Are all mortals so silly?”
“No, he’s merely using dry wit. A coping device for unusual situations.”
“Poorly done.” The dragon showed razor sharp teeth.
“How are you here now, Bazura? I expected you to be with the others.”
Wisps of smoke eased from round nostrils. “I was in a distant dimension on business, as well you know. I heard mother’s calling spell and decided to investigate. By the time I traveled the distance there was a weird displacement created by their sudden departure. The undertow dragged me here late.”
“Yes, your mother has a tendency for dramatic exits. But it’s been a long night for my friends-“
The dragon stared about. “Wait. These costumed mortals. Members of the Justice League? How intriguing.”
“Not to be rude.” Bruce made an exaggerated bow. “But it’s been like grand central station here. I really feel like a poor guest about now.”
“The jungle drums have informed me about you, Bruce Wayne. I see why father is taken with your charms.”
“I’m certainly finding out about his.”
Stranger looked at him oddly. “Bruce-“
“Oh, I’m going to love your explanations later. And you know what my first question will be!”
Stranger glanced at a spot on Bezura’s side. “That wound is fresh. How did you get it?”
“Huuu. It’s nothing. I had a small dustup with some drones from Darkseid’s metropolis. Parademons or something? Silly organic toys that annoyed me.”
Nightwing whispered to Superman. “Now that is totally badass, no matter what anyone says.”
“Why escalate a meaningless conflict, daughter?”
“It’s what I do, you know that. Besides, you should talk. When balancing the scales, have you not relished the joys of chaos and oblivion-”
He held her mouth closed. “That will be enough. Some information is not for mortal ears.”
A long tongue slipped through flat lips. “THhh. Duly noted.”
“Hold still a moment.”
The dragon sat patiently as Stranger touched various spots on the wound. It immediately closed. Seeping blood dried and flaked away.
A forked tongue tickled his ear.
“And now, be on your way. The moon rises high in the night.”
Transculent wings spread wide suddenly. “Farewell! And father, be sure to attend the palace party next month. Everyone loved your pole dance last year. Voted best strip of the decade. Nearly caused a riot!”
“GO.”
“HA HA HAAAAA!” Bazura vanished in a clap of thunder and smoke.
()
- 7
- 8
- 9
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Celestial Sensations