SHATTERED WORLDS | DC (2022)

Year 5: Flowers in Antarctica

Damian/Raven

Months had passed since Batman had disappeared into the mysterious portal, leaving behind the tumultuous world they had known. During that time, Damian and Raven had embarked on a new life together, far removed from the chaos and turmoil of their past. They had chosen a remote island in the serene beauty of Thailand, where their days unfolded in tranquility, and they could relish the peace that enveloped them. As weeks stretched into months, their friendship had gradually evolved into something deeper and more profound, although neither had explicitly broached the subject.

For Raven, it felt like a dream come true. The yearning for a life filled with peace and serenity had always been in her heart, and now, she was living it. Yet, she was cautious about voicing her joy, as if doing so might jeopardize their newfound happiness. The grip of Superman's regime might still be felt in the wider world, but it no longer reached them. Her contentment lay in spending her days with the man she had grown to love, in the midst of breathtaking sunsets and savoring the delights of culinary creations.

Damian had undergone a profound transformation in this new existence. It had taken time to extricate himself from the relentless cycle of his previous life, but gradually, he had learned to appreciate the simpler pleasures life had to offer. Gone were the days of ceaseless training and sleepless nights on patrol. Now, he danced, sang, and explored neighboring islands with his newfound love. Raven had played a crucial role in helping him see the world from a different perspective, and he had come to relish every moment. As he gazed at the enchanting sunset, the warm orange hues reflected in the clear blue waters, his thoughts turned to Grayson.

A serene smile played upon Damian's lips as he realized that he had heeded his brother's counsel and finally grasped the true essence of happiness and the art of living. Raven joined him on the beach patio, two cups of tea in hand. Damian accepted one, his eyes locked onto hers, and a gentle blush painted Raven's cheeks as their gazes intermingled. "I love you," he whispered, sealing his words with a tender, lingering kiss.

Superman

Superman's relentless pursuit of answers had led to months of torment for Batman. Despite the unending torture, Batman had refused to divulge any information about his plan or origins. Frustration had gnawed at Clark, pushing him to the brink.

"Why won't he confess!" Clark seethed, his frustration boiling over. Months had passed, and they had made little progress.

"Perhaps he had his memory erased," Sinestro suggested, trying to make sense of the enigma before them.

"Memory erasure could explain it, but his stories and his manner of speaking don't align," Black Adam noted.

"What do you mean?" Hal Jordan inquired, seeking clarity.

"His memories and recollections, even if tampered with, have inconsistencies. It's as if we're dealing with the wrong person," Black Adam mused, a sense of unease settling in.

"What are you implying, Adam?" Clark questioned, his patience wearing thin.

Adam paused, searching for the right words. "I can't quite grasp it, but something about this doesn't add up. It's as if there's a puzzle piece missing."

Regardless of the doubts that lingered, Clark decided he had had enough. Determination fueled his next decision. "Regardless of any uncertainties, I'm ending this now. Get the cameras ready."

The world's attention focused on Clark as he addressed them through the global news channels. "I'm pleased to announce that we have successfully captured Bruce Wayne. I know this brings relief to many of you. The war has come to an end. Bruce will face the highest level of punishment for his insurrection: death. His execution is scheduled for this weekend and will be broadcasted as a reminder to all those who still hide that there's no escape from justice."