Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Captain Marvel, age 12, was on the brink of a nervous breakdown. Currently situated in the Justice League meeting hall and listening to Batman drone on and on about some mission, the child under the guise of the World's Mightiest Mortal couldn't help letting his mind wander off. Where to? Gotham City.

It has been almost an entire week since there's been a massive increase of magic in that city, as though someone just opened a floodgate and magic's just spilling out without control.

How could anyone not have noticed? Sure, none of them are as attuned to magic as he is, but really? Not Miss Zatanna? Or the all-powerful Doctor Fate? When the surge of magic first started, Billy had just assumed that it was just some random magic-slinging rogue causing a mess in Gotham, and that Batman would deal with the guy posthaste, but nothing changed even after the first 24 hours.

Drumming his fingers on the table to Superman's subsequent report, Captain Marvel remained deep in thought as to his current position. Bearing the title of the Champion of Magic, it is in a sense, his duty to make sure nothing magical is going awry. Zip in Gotham, zip out when the matter's sorted, sounds simple enough, and with the Wisdom of Solomon, it would be nothing more than a cinch, yet it isn't that simple at all.

Batman.

To say that Batman hated him would be an overstatement, but Captain Marvel still didn't like the vibes he always gets from the Bat. That no-nonsense, broody look that's always on his face. And then there's that stony glare that he always received when he danced around the topic of his personal life made the little kid inside Captain Marvel break out in a cold sweat. Not to mention that rumor going around the Watchtower, that Batman loathes metahumans and magic.

But since when was giving out your secret identity a mandatory thing to do? Batman never told him his secret identity either, so why should he do it first? His foot started to bounce as his brow furrowed. And magic's unpredictable, so what? Avoiding the topic and throwing whatever magical problem you run into onto the hands of the magical side of the Justice League sounds like something a kid would do. And metahumans? Practically everyone's a metahuman thes-

"Captain Marvel."

Startled by the sudden direct call, Captain Marvel's eyes opened widely and looked at the person who called him. Batman.

"Is there something you would like to add to the report?" A question that honestly sounded more like a command.

"No, sir." His eyes traveled downwards onto the table as he murmured just loud enough for everyone to hear. Cheeks took on a slight rosy tint as he overheard Flash and Green Arrow chuckling and elbowing each other, a small "Ooh, he's in trouble!" floated into his ears.

With a heavy sigh, Batman placed his report file onto the table and continued to talk. It wasn't much longer before the meeting was concluded and everyone began to file out of the room, with the Captain included.

He power-walked to the Zeta Tube and with a quick series of taps, he was beamed straight back to Fawcett City.

Glancing left and right and seeing that coast was clear, he took to the skies for his daily Fawcett patrol. It was only after a couple minutes in the air did he finally exhale loudly for no one but himself to hear. Holy moly, was that embarrassing. How do the others do it all the time, getting called out by Batman and getting his patented Batglare? He's already been admitted into the League for almost a year, and he still gets the creeps from Batman.

And gosh, if only Batman knew he was thinking about Gotham and how to help him out. Maybe that would change how Batman thinks of him. Or maybe not and he'll get all grumpy and tell him to mind his own business.

Captain Marvel shook his head. He's made his decision. Tonight. He's going to Gotham tonight whether the local vigilante wants it or not. He's going to get to the bottom of this.

Okay, so this was a bad decision. Billy's heard the rumors and knows vaguely as to what kind of city Gotham was, but he didn't think it was this bad. Going as Captain Marvel would be far too flashy for a place like Gotham and instantly set Batman on his tail, but the fact that he almost got mugged three times in the short span of an hour was quickly making him reconsider his choice. To think that the closely guarded city of Batman would have people trying to rob scrawny children. Good thing that he was so scrawny that he could weave and duck into the tightest of alleyways, shaking his pursuers off his trail.

The downside was that he was more lost than ever now, with all the detours he made. He had come to the city on a whim and without much prior research on the general layout, honing in on the greatest magical signature rather than having a clear destination in mind, but now that he's actually in the heart of the city itself, it feels as though the magic had permeated the entire place with only a slight, almost undetectable increase in a certain direction, which was left. A wall. And he was stumbling around in a dark alley. Great.

Weighing his options of either going back and getting ganged up by the crooks or to just keep going forth aimlessly until he could go around the wall, Billy sighed and trudged onwards into the dark. He could have been cooped up in his small run-down apartment back in Fawcett, but no, he just had to be responsible and overthink everything.

As he moved, Billy had toyed with the idea that Batman knew what was going on, but simply ignored it because it was no big deal. It certainly was a possibility, and he would have consulted with one of his closer magical friends than the Captain. But the mere fact that the anomaly was still going on was a massive red flag, a beacon almost, that drew Billy's attention towards it for the past couple days. Batman's good, but Billy's a hundred percent sure that for someone rumored to absolutely hate magic, it's impossible to hide these kinds of feelings. Like full on panic. And yet Batman's still his usual Batman-y self.

A faint sound of water snapped the boy out of his thoughts. Not exactly, but more like waves crashing. Peering ahead, he spotted a metallic wall, lots actually. With a variety of colors. A warehouse? Upon reaching it and looking around, realization dawned on him.

"Holy moly, I'm at Gotham Harbor," he breathed out. While aware that this place isn't the safest of spots to be in, what with a ton of illegal deals that have occurred here, at least he's been here a couple times on League business. Billy smiled to himself. Now he roughly knows where he is and this place is perfect for Shazam-ing without any need for worry.

Lips pursing and whistling a light tune he heard from the radio that morning, Billy started to move through the massive shipping containers, marveling at them as he passed each crate by. He may have failed to reach his target location tonight, but it's not every day a Fawcett boy like him could get the chance to see an actual harbor and its inner workings. His finger traced over a label on one of the containers.

"F-fish. Huh, why'd you need to get fish from other places when you can just fish them out here? That's kinda weird," he mused. He continued down, glancing at each label as though he were window shopping.

"Wuh-wood. That's probably super heavy."

"Oh wow, they put pianos in here?"

It was until he reached the last container of the row when he scrunched his face up. Label-less. Strange, all the previous ones had labels, why didn't this one? He poked the empty spot where the label should have been plastered on as though doing so would materialize one out of thin air, and nothing happened. Guess some employee just forgot. Just as he turned around to check out another row, a loud noise erupted from the entrance of the harbor, as though something crashed onto one of the containers.

Eyes growing wide, Billy whipped around, looking at the direction from where the noise came from. One second. Two seconds. He didn't have the Courage of Achilles and the Courage of Billy Batson was dissipating fast. Three seconds. Nothing. The boy exhaled audibly and clutched his chest.

"Y-yeah. No biggie. Probably just a piano slipping. Yeah, definitely that and not B-Batman. Definitely not Batman out here to get me. Yeah." Before his own reassurances could settle his pounding heart down, a small light began to emanate from the place he prodded.

"What?" Small, glowing symbols appeared on the surface of the container. Not English for sure; even though he wasn't the best at reading, he still knows his ABCs, thank you very much. But right before he could bend down and study them closely, they vanished as soon as they appeared. "The heck?"

Rushing forward, he poked the area again and again with greater force, hoping to reenact what had happened, but to no avail. Billy crossed his arms, staring blankly at the blank area. Was that tied to the overall magical situation that Gotham has found itself in? And if it was, did he just let it slip through his fingers? Great. Just great. First almost getting mugged. Then getting lost. Then a stupidly loud crash out of nowhere. And now weird magic squiggles that disappear.

Well, that wraps up tonight's investigation, then. The boy marched towards the edge and took a deep breath, and,

"SH-"

A massive hand clamped over his mouth and easily covered half of his face. Another hand gripped tightly onto his collar. Eyes wide with fear, Billy began to struggle, trying to break free from whoever was holding onto him. Said mystery person leaned close to him and breathed out next to his ear.

"The little warlock wiggles and squirms, settle down lest you be crushed like a worm."

The second his fear-addled mind processed the gravelly voice, Billy froze. Not because he was afraid of getting crushed, no, the words flew right over his head. The fear came from knowing who the speaker, his captor, was, even without the pungent smell of sulfur. The grip loosened ever so slightly before he was violently turned around, coming face to face with his assailant.

Etrigan.

Chapter Text

Jason Blood, age lost to time, was on the brink of insanity. He had been poring over his entire collection of Gotham's geography and ancient tomes inscribed with archaic spells, and was coming up with absolutely nothing. Some madman was going around the city, opening bloody ley lines. Gotham City had only one ley line, an ancient one at that, and now this person was ruining the natural balance of the already hellhole of a city by creating new ones out of thin air.

When the first fresh ley line popped into existence in the northeast quadrant of Gotham, he had gone to the place in question, one of the ends of the line first then to the other end to see what the hell was going on, and found nothing. No runes, no symbols, nothing. And that makes zero amount of sense. One does not simply go about and magick one out of nowhere. They take ages to form, to take root in the land, to become powerful sources of magic. To be capable of creating new ones instantly that are just as prominent as the original one running through Gotham, Jason shuddered at the very notion. There had been several locations both on top of and close to the line that had a marginally higher amount of magical power that didn't feel quite natural, but that was the end of it.

Acknowledging the growing frustration of his host, Etrigan decided to be as useful as always and leaned back to relax in their shared mindspace, content in watching Jason suffer in silence. But despite relishing the moment, the demon's interest was piqued as well. Fully aware of the implications of a powerful and as of yet unidentified sorcerer running about in what Etrigan deemed his own territory, he wanted to get rid of this pest as soon as possible as well. After all, there was to be no magical chaos without his consent, according to his own egotistical decree. So he joined in on the investigation after Jason consulted him for the second time that day, reluctantly on the surface, but quite eager in actuality. He had to put on a show after all, can't let Blood get all uppity and think that he had the upper hand.

Three days of fruitless research passed on that only consisted of marking more hotspots of magic near the first one before the second artificial line emerged at the northwest area of the city, and once again, they arrived too late to the scene.

"While prophecies and fortunes aren't always true, but perhaps for us she might hold a clue?"

Their old flame, Madame Xanadu, fussed over the haggard man when they paid her a visit. After a quick interview, they departed. She expressed nothing but confusion when asked about the new ley lines and her crystal ball remained crystal clear.

The Oblivion Bar, then; perhaps the best source of magical gossip. Gaining a few wary glances from the other patrons, most likely due to his uncharacteristically unkempt appearance and the fact that Jason slammed the door open, he glanced around almost feverishly, searching for the person he came here for and found him within seconds. Jason made a beeline towards the table, its occupant distracted by his own mug.

A furtive glance and, "Blimey, you look like shit, Blood."

"Thank you for your astute observation, Constantine. A word?"

"Sure? What's this all about, eh? What's got you so," turning to face Jason, John gestured at him in his entirety, "banged up? Ol' Etty French kissing you in your drea-"

"Gotham."

"Eh?"

Voice lowering to a hiss, Jason pressed, "You've felt nothing? Nothing on the city? No increase in anything?" With every question, he moved closer towards Constantine, resulting in said man starting to lean backwards, trying to get as much distance as he can without getting up from his spot. Other patrons were beginning to talk in hushed whispers as the scene unfolded.

"Jason mate, slow down there. Too close for comfort."

"I've been fretting over this entire situation for days and you're saying that you've felt nothing out of the ordinary?"

"Uh yeah? I mean, what d'you want me to say? That there's some bloke opening portals to Hell or somethin'?"

"Not portals! It's, ah, just forget it." And with that, he spun on his heel and stormed out the way he came in, leaving all at the scene completely bewildered, Constantine especially so.

Another day had passed of searching and questioning, and still nothing.

"Entertaining as it is, seeing you wander hither and thither, Etrigan'd rather not be led elsewhither. Soothsayer and drunkard, both dead leads, 'tis not long before we have to concede."

His rhymes usually grating on his psyche, Jason found it ironic that only now are they more or less agreeable, considering how cooperative his demon has been for this endeavor. But for Nimue, Constantine, and all the other subsequent individuals he paid a visit to not have noticed anything peculiar, could it possibly be that he was losing his touch and feeling nonexistent happenings?

"Ignore your doubts and perish the thought, your efforts are not all for naught."

"Then are you perhaps manipulating my perception? My mind, like all those centuries ago?"

"This one swears to not have tainted your mind, at least not since our fates re-intertwined. An insane or lost soul is of no use to Etrigan, so rest assured, o mortal man."

"Reassuring as always," Jason muttered to himself as he reached for a book with a faded cover in his collection. "Only a demon's word to go on, and we both know it isn't worth spit."

He could feel Etrigan stretching lazily as his own limbs spasmed a little as though to reflect the demon's actions, an unwanted side effect of being bonded for so long. Jason's eye twitched as he felt a smirk crawl onto his mouth unwillingly as Etrigan's taunting voice echoed in his head, "Rather than fretting over where we stand, why not worry about the matter at hand?"

Jason sighed. Indeed, mysterious and traceless ley lines emerging was worrisome, imaginary or not, but for the first time in a millennia, he felt completely helpless and with no one to help him. Except for his hated burden, of course. Rubbing his temple, he went through his papers once more in hopes that he could catch something that he had missed with Etrigan lurking inside going through the lines with him. Adrenaline tapering off and exhaustion finally catching up, it wasn't long before Jason's eyes closed and slumbered for the first time in days.

Only to awaken to the feeling that something was very wrong and his antique clock's booming. Blearily, Jason sat up. It was the same feeling he got in those magical hotspots. And the feeling when a line appeared.

Sleeping for four hours during a presumed magical crisis? Maybe he really was slipping.

"The clock has struck and he awakens, the time is nigh, if not mistaken. The harbor is where the sensation's found, make haste afore it ruins the ground."

"Bloody hell, couldn't you have roused me? First time it's "nigh" and not already done and gone, and you let me oversleep?"

His frantic attempt to get dressed properly and prepared to leave was cut short when Etrigan replied, "You needed the rest."

Stunned by the frankness of the statement, Jason stood still, momentarily forgetting the urgency of the matter. "What did you just say?"

Etrigan snorted with amusement and replied casually, "You needed the rest, and this demon knows best. A little delay wouldn't hurt, for now your only choice is to convert."

And there it is. But of course. Why would he ever think of anyone but himself. Jason cursed under his breath as he realized the truth to the demon's words, and without sparing another second, he recited.

" Gone, gone, the form of man, and rise, the demon, Etrigan! "

When Jason finally got his bearings, Etrigan was already halfway to the harbor, leaping from rooftop to rooftop with his powerful legs, claws latching onto ledges and arms lifting his bulk up with ease when buildings were a little too far apart.

"Disoriented and still quite dazed, are we? Sit back and relax, for there is no need for thee."

"Be quiet and focus, Etrigan. And make haste, we can't let this opportunity to catch him in the act slip by."

"How pushy, when it is you who overslept?" Jason huffed as the demon continued, "Worry not, this rogue Etrigan will intercept."

It wasn't long before Gotham Harbor came into sight, also thanks to Etrigan's naturally enhanced eyesight. Crouching down, Etrigan readied himself, launched himself into the air, and landed on a shipping container with the elegance and grace befitting a demon prince from Hell, earning a startled yelp from his host.

"Are you out of your bloody mind? Why not wake the entirety of Gotham while you're at it? You've gone and scared the one pers-"

"Shush now, Etrigan has caught hold of a scent. The hunt will commence without your consent."

The demon took off, now moving swiftly and quietly on all fours from container to container. A small shadow soon came into view, looking at glowing runes inscribed onto the metallic side of a container before they faded away.

"Caught right in the act, hmm?"

The demon grinned as he positioned himself on the container right behind the boy and cautiously peered down at his prey. Picking out the features and a single whiff told him all he needed to know.

Jason parsed through the information Etrigan gleaned. "A little boy? Can't be older than ten with that stature. A disguise, perhaps? It just seems impossible for a child to be capable of magic at such a grand scale, with such potency as well."

"Illusion or not, he is our perpetrator."

"He is but a child, there is no need for viole-"

"And since when were you my dictator?"

"Etrigan, wait! We haven't established a motive or method yet, and you want to damn him to Hell already? And look, the symbols are gone, yet no ley line is formed!"

"An inevitable outcome, lest we wring the information out. Really, of all times to start on morality, to scream and shout."

Jason wrapped his arms around himself, effectively locking Etrigan's limbs in the real world. The demon snarled as he struggled against his host's control over his body, when he caught a glimpse of the boy moving away from the scene.

"You speak of injustice yet look at you now! If the boy runs, then your guilt you cannot disavow!"

The possibility of damning the populace by not stopping the outbreak of ley lines made Jason falter slightly and Etrigan made use of the moment of weakness to land right behind the boy without so much of a sound. Claws extended as he imagined himself wringing the life out of the brat; Etrigan's hands neared his victim's throat.

"Etrigan, please. I beg of you. Show the child mercy." A weak plea from a weak host.

His fin-ears picked something up, however, a deep breath coming from the child as though he were about to scream, and as expected, he watched the boy's jaw move downwards. But was it really going to be a scream? From someone capable of such magic? A feeling of unease pooled in his gut, but it was unbecoming of him to start second guessing, at least until-

"SH-"

His hands shot out immediately out of instinct; one clamped over the boy's mouth along with half his face and the other gripped tightly onto his collar. The boy began to struggle, a seemingly futile attempt but nonetheless annoying, so Etrigan leaned down and spoke right into the boy's ear.

"The little warlock wiggles and squirms, settle down lest you be crushed like a worm."

It worked and the boy froze. Partially satisfied, Etrigan forcefully turned the boy around, wanting to get a good look at the little menace's face.

Chapter Text

Billy's voice was caught in his throat, but then again, what was he supposed to say in this situation again? Uh, hiya, Mr. Etrigan, could you please let me go and not devour my soul? Would that work? From hanging out with other magical heroes and getting the opportunity to work with Mr. Blood every so once in a while, Billy had gathered that the man and his inner demon had settled down in Gotham, but would that mean they're the source of what was going on? Regardless, all he wanted right now was to get out of this situation hopefully in one piece and scurry back to Fawcett. The boy was sweating bullets as the demon's glowing red eyes studied him carefully. Were his eyes playing tricks on him or did a relieved smile cross the demon's lips before returning to his usual scowl?

Someone had to speak, and it seems like it was up to hi-

"Curious, is it not, to not cower before my face. Surely my visage is not so commonplace. Not a smidge of fear nor a squeak of terror, then, no choice, I must take position as your inquirer."

"Uh, okay? Yeah, I guess?" The heck is he talking about?

One of Etrigan's brows raised before setting the boy back onto the ground. Giving a small mock of a bow, Etrigan beamed a smile with far too many teeth and purred sweetly, "I see you trembling, but fear me not, little one, for no harm will befall you."

A sigh of relie-

"At least not until I'm done."

Aw shucks.

His yellow hand reached out and cusped his face with a surprising amount of tenderness. "Let's start from the top, then, shall we? Answer me truthfully and you may go free."

"Y-yeah, okay." Easier said than done; he knows of the demon's verbal tic and heard it a couple times before, but it's much harder to understand the bizarre speech pattern directed at him in real time without the Wisdom of Solomon or Captain Marvel’s adult mind than he could have ever imagined.

"Good. Then do tell, what brings you here on this lovely night, shrouded in darkness where not even torches burn bright?"

"Th-there, I mean, I was, a friend asked me to come here? I just got here?" Gods, that came out worse than he had hoped for. Billy gave a sheepish smile. Etrigan grinned back. "Yeah, uh, R, Sam! Said that er, he wanted to show me around the place." A curt nod from the demon. Score?

"I see. A close friend beckoned you all the way here. Truly a pity that he chose this time to disappear."

Shoot.

"Anyhow, my next question if you so please. Surely you can answer me with absolute ease."

Billy gulped as one of Etrigan's claws wandered especially near his eye. One strike already, and it doesn't look like he has three chances.

"What were you doing there, toying with those lights? Were you planning to set this whole place alight?"

Oh Gods, Etrigan saw him with the runes! But wait, did he not know what they were? So he's not behind it all? Bu-

"Tick, tock, your silence is quite loud. A penny for your thoughts, if I'm allowed?"

The sickening tone the demon had adopted was making Billy's stomach do flips. This is going in a very bad direction, one where Billy sees himself getting tossed into the harbor or something worse. He had to get something out, anything! Thoughts running a mile an hour, the boy sputtered out, "I wasn't doing anything, Mr. Etrigan! I really just came here to meet up with my friend! There were the lights and just disappeared, honest!"

The demon had gone eerily quiet; the smile he wore was also gone. Billy stiffened up when the hand that was caressing his cheek was retracted, terrified as to what Etrigan had in store for him. Was he free? Or was he-

Before even getting the chance to react, Etrigan's right hand thrust forth and latched tightly onto Billy's throat and slammed him backwards into a shipping container. Throat restricted and head throbbing, Billy couldn't even scream or say his magic word; his fingers clawed desperately at the thick arm holding him in place, legs bucking wildly. Tears began to form at the edges of his eyes. Is this how it ends? In his blurry vision, he vaguely saw Etrigan open his mouth and plumes of smoke spilled out.

"Liar! Deceiver! Your words and actions are nothing but poison! Etrigan has given you chances, but none held up to reason! For the betterment of Gotham, Etrigan shall cleanse this problem!" The smell of sulfur, completely unbearable, only grew stronger as the demon readied his maw, bringing the boy closer and closer.

His gaping mouth began to glow orange, and knowing what comes next, Billy couldn't afford to give in just yet. He squirmed under the demon's grasp and continued his frantic kicks, and just his luck, his right knee connected with Etrigan's jaw. A sickening crack resounded as pain lanced through the boy's kneecap, but through the pain and tears, he noticed that Etrigan's grip on his neck loosened completely as the beast staggered back, stunned by the attack. The boy fell to the ground and scrambled upright, but the pain in his knee sent him crumpling back onto the ground.

Oh no. Oh no no no. Etrigan shook his head and rubbed his jaw. Then their eyes locked. Gods, he must look awful right now, with tears streaming down his face and trembling like no tomorrow. The demon strode towards him, gait purposefully slow, allowing the boy to scoot backwards.

"For a little whelp like you to put up such a fight is worthy of praise. Any last words for Etrigan to mull over for the next couple of days?"

There was one word that would get him out of this situation instantly, but letting someone like Etrigan know his closely guarded secret that nobody knew? Never. Not in a million years.

Billy sniffed and continued glaring defiantly. Etrigan flashed a cruel grin at the shivering boy as he slowly approached.

Yeah, he can do this. He's heard it before. And if he couldn't say the words and died like this, he would be putting the names of Captain Marvel and Shazam to shame.

He opened his mouth.

"Yarva."

Etrigan halted upon hearing the first word. Then he lunged.

"Etrigan."

"Mortal, you dare-"

"Daemonicus."

He never got to finish his threat as he landed unceremoniously on the ground next to Billy, tattered cloak covering the demon's entire body. The boy winced as he heard the demon groan as he writhed under his clock, body audibly shifting and contorting, compressing into a smaller, more human-like build. Holy moly, the transformation hurts? Nobody told him about this! Thank the Gods that his own transformation only hurt the first time, and that was because of the massive lightning bolt that struck him!

The crunching noises gradually faded as the demon's cape transmogrified back into a plain brown coat and matching pants, and with one last snap followed by one a sharp exhale that sounded like the wind being knocked out the man, a weary Jason Blood took the demon's place. Breathing heavily, Jason pushed himself into a sitting position and looked at Billy.

"Well, that was quite the experience, wasn't it, young lad?

Billy smiled weakly before promptly passing out.

Jason steadily stood up and made his way towards the child. Completely out cold. Can't in good conscience just leave him here. He removed his coat and placed it over the boy; he had to attend to another matter posthaste.

"It was right here, was it not," Jason muttered as he traced his fingers over where he saw the glowing symbols through Etrigan's eyes. But once again, there was nothing. Only mere traces of magic left swirling in the vicinity, just about as much as the previous locations they've been to. Then inside? He pressed an ear onto the side and gave a sharp rap. A loud echo, but no signs of the sound bouncing off anything. Bloody hell. Nothing again. He turned back to the prone figure under his coat and sighed as he moved towards it.

Gently swathing the unconscious boy up in his coat, Jason picked the child up with both hands and slowly made his way out of the harbor, taking great care to not jostle the bundle too much. His transformation had just come undone, so Jason was granted a brief respite as Etrigan had yet to reacclimate to the situation.

To say that he was frustrated with everything that had just gone down would be the understatement of the century. The boy was suspicious and answered everything with lies, but there was absolutely no need to go that far. At least Etrigan didn't kill the boy on the spot without even giving him a chance to speak his piece just as he had planned to do so at the start. But still, a child.

And yet, Jason Blood was surprised by the amount of courage the boy displayed during the encounter. It takes more than just false bravado to come face to face with the demon, and even when thrust into a hopeless situation with tears streaming down his youthful face, those bright blue eyes burned with determination. To think that he even came out of the scuffle victorious.

Putting the suspicious actions they caught him in the act of doing aside, then there's the question as to how he knew those words. Just simply saying them out loud does nothing; a certain intonation and a moderate amount of magical energy were necessary. This little child he currently held certainly fulfilled the latter requirement, but how did he come to know the first?

Feeling a stirring within his mind, Jason spoke out loud, "I hope you're happy with what you've done, traumatizing a child." To Hell with the Gothamites still wandering about the street at such a late night; he had a demon to admonish.

"Feh."

"Not in a rhyming mood anymore, your highness?"

"Traitor."

"Beg your pardon?"

"Look at what you're doing. You're bringing the enemy back home."

"Yes, and it wouldn't be so if you didn't have such a thick head and actually listened to me. Listened to him."

"To his lies?"

"Perhaps if you had calmed down and not grin as though you were about to eat him, it would have helped in ascertaining the truth." The demon curled up inside, seemingly guilty, but Jason had known him far too long to truly believe that he felt "guilt". Nevertheless, it was a quiet journey back to his manor.

After setting the boy down on one of his many couches, Jason moved to inspect the boy further. A quick scan revealed that there were no enchantments nor any trace of magic at all; he was an ordinary boy from head to toe. An ordinary boy that was far too young for all this.

"No glamour or magic. But how can that be?" Jason muttered under his breath.

"More than meets the eye, this one. Not everyone can say those words and have them work."

The man hummed in approval. Nothing more he could do other than come up with even more baseless conjectures, at least until the boy awakens and answers his questions properly. Oh well, if there's one thing Jason had, it was time, despite the looming threat hanging over Gotham.

Might as well show his goodwill, lest he scares the boy away just like his counterpart. Working quickly, Jason rolled the boy's right pant leg up to assess the damage done to his knee, revealing an ugly swelling that was starting to bruise. He gingerly prodded the area and faintly noticed the boy cringing even in his fretful sleep.

"Not my fault. He deserved it."

"For fighting for his life? Come on now, Etrigan." He turned around and started rummaging through his cabinets. No, that's for curses. That's, what was this for again?

"Curses as well."

Right. Where did he put all his healing balms again?

"You haven't needed them ever since we moved here. Something about not wanting to clean up other's rears."

Wonderful, he's in a rhyming mood again. Jason picked out several herbs and got to work.

Chapter Text

Billy slowly came to, and felt something heavy covering him. Eyes flying open immediately, he sighed with relief when he found out it was just a really heavy blanket. Then the panic set in again when he realized this wasn't his blanket. Wait, Gods, this couch is so soft. The room was moderately illuminated with the fireplace next to his couch going strong, and, no, this wasn't the time to gawk at everything! He needed to get out of here! Stranger danger and all that. Sitting up, Billy set his feet onto the ground but was immediately assaulted by a burning pain that shot through his right leg, causing a small whimper to escape his lips.

"Ah, I wouldn't do that if I were you."

Billy's head instantly swiveled towards the direction of the voice, and paled when he saw Jason Blood sitting on the couch right next to his own. How the heck did he miss him?

The man closed his book, stood up, and approached Billy, who cowered in fear.

The man's hand was raised, palm open, and Billy closed his eyes tightly.

Only to receive a small pat on the head as the man sat down next to him.

"There is no need to fear me, little one. I'm not going to hurt you." Gods, the way he says it is not making him feel any safer. "All I want are some answers to some questions I have. And this time, I hope you won't lie."

"It was that obvious, huh."

"Indeed it was. All that stuttering and shaking, not to mention me actually seeing you in the act."

Billy quieted upon hearing that. Gods, how long was he there? How much did he see? How much does he know? All his memories of Etrigan were that of a loud and annoying demon; to be able to be so quiet and sneak up on him? The boy willed himself to not shudder in front of the demon's human host.

"So do tell, what were you up to at the harbor?" voice silky smooth, calm and measured.

"I got lost. There were these guys that wanted to rob me and I ran." A half-truth, not that the man would find out.

A small click of the tongue accompanied with a disapproving shake of the head. Was he caught? Already? "Gotham's streets are far too dangerous when night falls." Whew.

"Yeah, tell me about it. Had no idea."

"Oh, then you're not from Gotham?" Oops.

"Uh, y-yeah. I'm from, uh, Metropolis."

"When most of the populace knows about the undesirable nature of Gotham? Not very likely. Try the truth this time." Caught immediately.

"S-sorry. I'm from Fawcett."

"That's more believable. But now that begs the question, what brought you here to Gotham from all the way over there?"

"I, uh. Mmm." He began to fidget with his hands. Should he just play the dumb civilian boy that just happened to be there at the wrong place at the wrong time? Or just come clea-

"If it's about magic, then you needn't hide it from me. I am aware that you know much more than the average person."

The boy's eyes shot up and looked directly at Jason. "How?" he breathed out.

"You knew Etrigan's name. And the spell, but the first tell was that you knew his name."

"B-but, but! He said it himself, didn't he? When he was rhyming and all that!"

"No. I was paying close attention, and he is much more cunning than what others are led to believe. The demon purposefully avoided saying his own name like he usually does, just to see what would have happened. And you let it slide out of your mouth." Billy looked down back at his hands. Was that what happened? Everything happened way too fast.

"I'm not going to be angry, just tell me, why are you doing all this?"

Huh? Wait what? "D-doing what?"

"The ley lines. Why are you creating them?"

"Ley li, oh Gods, you think I'm the one causing all this?" Is that what's going on? Someone's opening ley lines? What the heck, and how?

"You have yet to provide me a reason to think otherwise, yes."

"I swear, Mr. Blood, I'm not the one! I just, I, it's really not me!"

Tears were beginning to bead out from the edges of his eyes, against his will. It was just so frustrating! How can he defend himself when he didn't even know what was going on? What else could he say?

Jason sighed and ran a hand through his already messy hair. "In light of conflicting viewpoints, let's start from the top, shall we."

Not that tone again, that weird tone that made Billy uncomfortable. It just sounded off, like major deja vu vibes. He squirmed under Jason's gaze, unprepared for whatever there is to come.

"What is your name, little one?"

Now that's unexpected. No point in lying about this one, since nobody knows little orphan Billy Batson after all. Clearing his throat, "It's, it's Billy. Billy Batson."

That earned a small, mirthful exhale from Jason, and Billy's eyes traveled to the man.

"What's so funny?"

"I don't suppose you're related to the Bat, now are you?"

"Oh Gods no! I'm not related to him! It's just, a really weird coincidence!"

Jason nudged him lightly with his elbow. "Hm, are you sure? You do look like his type, what with your hair and eyes."

Now that got Billy flustered. What the heck does Mr. Blood mean by that? Tha-

"I swear, I've lost count of how many Robins Batman has had already. And then it doesn't take too long before they leave the nest to pave their own path. So are you sure you're not the newest Robin? You do have the mettle to be one if you ask me, seeing how you stood up to Etrigan."

Oh, that's what he meant. Wait, is he being compared to the level of Batman's Boy Wonders? Him? Little Billy Batson?

"Gosh, you really think so?"

"I do. Etrigan is quite impressed as well," he rapped the side of his head once and flinched before finishing. "Really."

Jason suddenly stood up, his eyes twinkling at Billy.

"I've been a terrible host. Wait right here, I'll make you something nice to drink, to warm you up."

"Oh, you don't have t-"

"I insist," and with that, he stalked off to somewhere else.

Now Billy was all alone with his thoughts. How much should he tell the man? He knew about the situation, he saw the glowy words, and he said something about ley lines? Is that what's going on? Someone's creating ley lines? How is that even possible? As far as he was concerned, ley lines were like giant power cords of magic that ran through places that strengthens certain magic users, kinda like what the Rock of Eternity does for him, but to just make them? Don't they take a long time to naturally emerge? Ley lines emerging would explain the huge increase of magical energy that's coming out of Gotham, but how they emerged would be an even bigger problem.

And could he trust the man? He's heard so many stories about the legendary Jason of the Blood from Miss Zatanna and it was clear that she respected the man. And a lot of the other magical heroes of the League spoke highly of him as well, saying stuff like how he's super dependable and the only downside is that he's a bit, well, depressing to be around with. And that he's really serious. And that he's a living cage to one of the most evil and cruel demons, Etrigan. That's a lot of downsides, actually, Billy thought to himself.

"Sorry to keep you waiting." Billy steeled his mind and looked at the approaching man. He was holding onto a small mug, and Gods, the smell! It was so sweet!

"I took the liberty of adding some marshmallows; Zee always liked them when she was small," and just as he was about to hand it to Billy, he paused, "You're, not allergic to chocolate, are you? I forgot to ask."

Billy shook his head, maybe a little too vigorously, earning a chuckle from the man as he carefully passed the mug into his hands. So warm. Taking a small sip, it instantly warmed him up. Magic cocoa? Or was he just so tired? All he knew was that he felt tons better, as though the fatigue just suddenly left his body. Should probably savor it while he could.

They spent the next couple seconds in silence, until Billy piped up.

"I don't get it."

"Hm, get what?"

"Why're you suddenly being so nice to me? You were, uh, pretty, adult-y, and now you're just, nice."

"Well, it's clear to me now that you're not a villainous little scoundrel. Wouldn't go as far as to call you a friend just quite yet, but I digress."

Another small sip. "Why?"

"For starters, you seemed quite at ease when talking about Batman, shows that you are quite familiar with him at the very least. You were blushing a lot as well when you were likened to the Robins, so you must respect them."

"You did that on purpose? That's kinda mean."

"I suppose, but I truly meant every word. Then, there's the fact that you call me "Mr. Blood". With the "Mr. Etrigan" from before, you clearly know exactly who I am and still remain a polite young lad. Hence, you can't possibly be someone that I have slighted in the past. Perhaps I've assisted you some time ago?"

Oh. Of course. He's never met Billy Batson, only the Captain. Mr. Blood literally just handed him the best cup of cocoa he's had in years and the best excuse he could ever use.

"Uh, yeah. There was this time when you, and uh, Mr. Etrigan, saved me."

"Hmm. I thought so. I'm assuming alongside Zatanna?"

"Huh?" Wait, how'd he get to that conclusion? Better just go along with it. "How'd you know?"

"I've worked alongside the magician many a times before, and you didn't react at all when I offhandedly said her nickname amongst her colleagues, "Zee". Not even so much of a question as to who this person was. Meaning either you glossed over my utterance, or that you've heard it before, directly referring to the lady herself. But to know so much about me, I believe the latter would be more likely."

Oh he's good. Why's everything got to be a mind game with this guy? And his demon, too? Billy picked out a marshmallow and threw it into his mouth, chewing lightly.

"Now, I know there's more to all that than what I've gathered. I have all the time to figure your half-truths out." Gulp. "But that isn't as important right now, let's talk about what happened tonight, over at the harbor. I do hope this is the last time I have to ask you to be honest with me. To provide the full truth."

Billy nodded and began.

"Gotham feels funky. For some time already." Mental count. "Starting from like, five or four days ago?"

"Mm."

"There was this sudden "whoosh" and just, bam, magic everywhere in Gotham."

"Everywhere?"

"Well, uh, yeah? Like gas? Smoke? But invisible. And there was a place that was, more magic-y."

"Mm. Continue."

"So I was like, geez, what the heck was Batman doing? Or anyone magical? Like, it's just magic everywhere, and isn't Batman supposed to hate magic or something?"

"He does have his reservations towards the entire topic, but "hate" is too strong a word to describe how he feels."

"Oh." Reservations? Really, only that? "Anyways. Where was I?"

"Batman and other magical heroes sitting on the sidelines?"

"Yeah! So then, what, couple days later, there was another big "whoosh" and even more magic! And still nothing!"

"So you decided to take the matter into your own hands?"

"Yeah! But when I got here, there really were some bad guys trying to get me. I ran and ran, and ended up at the harbor! Really far from where I wanted to go, but I was really lost, so I just thought, hey, why not try again tomorrow and just relax for a while?"

A small smile appeared on Jason's face.

"I walked and looked at a bunch of those boxes, uh, shipping containers, and saw a whole lot of different things. They had all these different labels, too. But then there was this one that didn't have anything. I poked it a couple times and then there was this large crash!"

"A crash?" Billy saw the man tense up.

"Yeah, but it was like, really far away. Like at the entrance? So I don't think it was a big deal? You know something about it?"

The man's stiff posture loosened a bit and said with a tired expression, "Know something? We were the cause of it. Etrigan had the brilliant idea of landing on a shipping container with full force when we arrived." Billy giggled at that thought.

"Scared me a lot, so thanks. But anyways, after the crash, there was this really weird glow behind me, right where I poked the metal. There were these squiggles."

"Words?"

"I guess? But didn't look like English? Just squigglies."

"Mm."

"Tried to get a good look at them too, but they just disappeared. And then I was like, what the heck, that's enough creepy stuff for one night, and got ready to leave. That's when you, er, Mr. Etrigan showed up. And everything else."

Jason and Etrigan processed everything that the boy said. His testimony was mostly in line with their own experience.

"How did he plan to leave? Etrigan finds that part hard to believe."

Yes, he found that part odd as well, along with what he was about to scream before getting cut off by Etrigan. Sh-something. A teleportation spell of his own making? No matter. What matters is that of all the magic users that they know, this child is the only one that could sense the changes. This unassuming child without even an ounce of magical power as far as he could tell. 

"The topic of his magic is not without conflict, and yet his words do not contradict."

Indeed. On a side note, Billy seemed confused when Jason spoke of ley lines. Not the sort of confusion regarding the terminology, but rather not understanding why it was brought up in the first place. He had referred to the phenomenon feeling like a "whoosh", and then the city itself is enveloped in an all encompassing fog of magic, with a place extra potent. Neither Jason nor Etrigan felt this way. Then there was the matter of the harbor. According to Billy, he accidentally stumbled onto the scene when Jason and Etrigan deliberately made the decision to head there, drawn by a sensation of sorts. Billy was being honest all the way up to here, no sense in doubting him now. And the boy had a different destination.

Then the conclusion is clear. Both parties could feel the phenomenon, but how their own magical systems worked, the way they perceived it was different.

Now it feels like he's finally getting somewhere with this. Then the clock struck twice.

The boy jolted up, mug almost flying into the air before he scrambled to hold it firmly.

"Gosh, what time is it? It's super late, right?"

"Two in the morning, to be more precise."

"Two!"

"Indeed. Should I call your parents? You are in no condition to go back to Fawcett, magic or not." That clamped Billy's mouth shut. Curious, it wasn't the first time he directly pointed out the possibility of the child wielding magic, and after that talk, it was clear that the boy at the very least has the potential of becoming an accomplished mage. But then why would he react so towards the topic of magic? Jason set that thought aside for the moment.

It was a while before, "I, uh. I can handle myself. Really good at it too."

"Nonsense. I am responsible for letting you get hurt in the first place, so I'm obligated to make sure you're alright before allowing you to leave. Besides, it's two in the morning. You saw what the streets of Gotham were like. It's far too dangerous for you to go limping out in the dark even with magic to protect yourself."

Billy curled up, carefully avoiding his damaged knee. No rebuttal. So his magic could be used as a means of self-defense or self-preservation.

"Look, if you're afraid that your parents would scold you for venturing this far away from home, you must remember, that above all else, they must be dreadfully worried. A child, barely even ten, fighting demo-"

"I'm twelve."

"Excuse me?" Jason, with Etrigan on the inside, did a double-take at the same time.

"I'm twelve. I'm just, you know, smaller than average."

"That look in his eyes, it's clear that he lies. I may be projecting, but he seems to be protecting."

Silence. And then it was anger. Small at first, but Etrigan was stoking the flames without prompting.

"Young man, let me talk to your parents right this instant. I've got a phone in the back."

"Um, uh. I, no?"

"Listen, this is completely unacceptable. You are far too thin and small for someone that's just a year away from officially becoming a teenager. This is abuse."

"I, you don't understand, it's not like that!"

"That your parents are starving you? Not going to be worried about you? Hell, no wonder you avoided my first request. I should've kno-"

"They're dead."

For the first time this night, and as far as he could recall, Jason was at a loss for words. And Etrigan had the decency to shut up as well.

"Are you alright, Mr. Blood? You're awfully pale." The absolute gall, the audacity to ask such a question after the previous statement.

"I-I'm sorry. I, I jumped to conclusions and, hell. Bloody hell. I'm so sorry."

"It's alright. They've been gone for a long time already."

"Then surely, a foster family?"

"Nah, bad experiences. I've been on the streets for, uh," he counted on his fingers. "Five years already? Yeah, five."

Jason slumped on his side of the couch, feeling faint. A little child, homeless, surviving on the streets of Fawcett for half a decade. What in the Morningstar's name is going on in that damned city?

"It's not that bad, honest! There's a bunch of nice people who make things really cheap for me! They even give me stuff if I help them out a bit! And I kinda have a jo-"

"But this is no way for a child to live," countered Jason. "A child should not have any worries, and at most, it should be about crushes, or homework, or schoolyard bullies! Not, all," he waved at himself and then at Billy, "this! Hell, you almost died tonight, and it's because you just wanted to help the city, and it's not even your own city. We almost killed you, for hell's sake!"

"But you didn't?"

"He was about to; you just happened to get those three words out in time!"

"Fate works in mysterious ways, huh, Mr. Blood?"

"Don't you dare get cheeky with me right now, you little brat."

"But it's the truth. I couldn't do anything when my parents died. I couldn't control how those foster families would treat me. And I didn't really have a choice when I was, you know, when I got my magic."

"I-"

"With my magic, I can help people! Like, really help people! I can make sure there won't be another kid like me. I mean it's already too late for me, but other kids? I can help them!"

"It shouldn't be your responsibility to do so."

"But I want to! Otherwise all this magic is going to waste! It's not like he, uh, I mean, I already have this magic! Might as well put it to good use?"

"It's far too dangerous."

"Yeah, but I'm strong. And what's the worst that could happen, die? Nobody's going to miss me. Nobody even knows me." The boy trailed off, looking into his empty mug where a singular piece of marshmallow remained stuck at the very bottom.

"Billy Batson."

Startled by the sudden direct call, Billy's eyes opened widely and looked at Jason.

"You can stay here. For as long as you want or need. Whenever you wish." Jason ignored the long, drawn-out whine elicited from Etrigan when the demon realized what his host was about to propose and carefully studied the boy's changing expression.

Shock, then a squint, then disgust? Then wariness. "Uh, thanks? But I don-"

"Please, I insist. My doors will always be opened for you, even after we get to the bottom of all this."

"No, I really, wait, what, "we"?"

"Yes, "we". Not as in "Etrigan and I" we, it's a "you and us" we."

"But I thought it was too dangerous?"

"I meant that as magic on a whole, but this entire phenomenon is indeed dangerous as well. By how insistent you are on utilizing your magic for the greater good, I doubt you'll just sit all quietly back at Fawcett while I handle the situation. You'd most certainly jump straight in and get yourself hurt. If you work with me, we can do this much more efficiently and I can even keep a close eye on you."

"I guess? I mean you're right about how I'm not gonna just sit still, but I'm still not really sold on working with you, no offense."

"That can be arranged and details can be smoothed out afterwards. Now, you need to rest."

"Bu-but I need to go back to Fawcett!"

"And why is that."

"I have, uh, responsibilities?"

"While I have more than one spare room, plenty of food for you, and a soft bed with your name on it? Surely, your supposed "responsibilities" can wait until you're well rested and aren't so urgent that they would require you to go rushing out at, what, three in the morning? And you are now aware that I truly mean you no harm, no?"

It was Billy's turn to slump down. Hook, line, and sinker. Jason stood up and gently removed the empty mug from the boy's hands.

"Wait for me a little longer, little one. I'll get things prepared and let you know when everything's ready."

Chapter Text

The boy fell asleep as soon as he was placed onto the plush guest bed, and not long after he began to snore lightly, clearly exhausted after the tumultuous night. Jason cocked his head to one side as he watched the boy's rhythmic breathing. So young; to think that his life was already filled with so much strife. Closing the door as quietly as he could, Jason made his way back to his study, sat down on his favorite chair at his messy desk, and let out a long sigh. There was just so much to unpack from everything Billy had told him. And about himself.

"How you've fallen. It's driving you wild, knowing that you almost killed a child."

A cruel smile not belonging to the man flitted across his lips against his will.

"And information first before asking about the next of kin? You're lucky he's an orphan, but you know your sin."

Focus. Ignore his taunts. Focus on the boy.

First of all, he had magic, and he apparently got it from someone. The way how Billy talked about it and the way how he carried himself during their conversation, it would appear as though he's had it for quite some time already. Which is concerning, in of itself. Who gave the boy powers? And how is it literally undetectable from someone like him?

Secondly, when the child spoke of using magic, Jason noticed an unhealthy amount of self-sacrificial tendencies. "Nobody's going to miss me. Nobody even knows me." What a load of crock. Save some of that existential dread for himself and his hated baggage, why don't you.

"He's about as melodramatic as you are. For someone his age, it's quite bizarre."

Shush.

"Living off the streets for half a decade, the glow in his eyes has yet to fade."

True. He was very resilient, as learned during their little fight, but now it seems that he was resourceful as well. It is no small feat to survive on one's own. While Jason was certain that the streets of Fawcett aren't nearly as awful as those of Gotham's, the fact that there are homeless orphans who feared foster homes to begin with in the sunny city spoke volumes on how much he didn't know about the place. And this life led to such a noble desire, to wish that no one else had to suffer like he had. A miracle was sleeping in his guest room.

"Imagine if you will, a small penniless bat. Would he have ended up like that street rat?"

Food for thought. He'll ring Bruce up some other time for a chat, when everything's done and gone. Maybe have him sign some adoption papers over a cup of tea.

"Oh? You wish to send him away? Could've sworn your heart was swayed."

Pitied? Yes. Swayed to the point of adoption? Hardly. Jason could see himself caring for the child on and off like a mentor of sorts and giving him a roof over his head, but actually taking him in as a son? When he had Etrigan and other matters constantly plaguing him? The boy also mentioned that he didn't trust foster homes after several bad experiences; if anyone can provide a safe and caring home for a magic-slinging boy like him and without robbing him of his "magical responsibilities in Fawcett", it would be Bruce.

Then there was the matter of the boy's magical connections, or the connections to himself. Etrigan is gifted with an eidetic memory, courtesy of his mother according to him, and the demon swears to have never seen the boy before. The scent and voice of the child were foreign as well. Now there was no benefit in lying about this matter, so Jason has no reason to doubt the demon's word this time. So why is the boy so familiar with himself and what he's assuming to be a number of heroes, both magical and non-magical, of the Justice League?

And finally, speaking of Fawcett.

"The goody-two-shoes is a no-show in this farce. Leaving a child to do the work? He can bite Etrigan's ar-"

Yes, thank you for your input. It is quite the far-fetched story for the current Champion of Magic to have no idea as to what was going on, being so closely tied to magic itself. And this boy hails from Fawcett as well. He must be aware of Billy's powers, right? Then by that line of logic, he should also know what Billy's so eager to get back to, this business of helping people with magic. But confronting the notoriously tight-lipped magical powerhouse is an entirely different story.

"It's was, not is, o foolish knight. We now know that we're in the right."

They once considered approaching Captain Marvel and asking about the situation, but on the account that they've only worked together a handful of times and always part of a larger team, they decided against the idea and took to other people they actually trusted. The result was the past couple days being abysmal; nobody knew what Jason was talking about. However, it was different now. He saw something down at the harbor, and at last, even gained a corroborator. One from Fawcett. A lot more cards to deal with than he initially had.

Jason glanced at the clock, almost five in the morning. Change of plans, then; time to advance his schedule a bit. He reached for the rotary phone nestled behind a stack of research, and dialed a number he had memorized a long time ago.

"..."

"..."

"...Hello, this is Wayne speaking," a tinge of drowsiness was found in the voice.

"Hello, old chum. You can cut the theatrics, we both know you're still wide awake and cooped up in that dingy cave of yours."

"...Blood. What did I do to deserve this late-night harassment?"

"You? Being oblivious, I suppose. But that's not the reason I called you for."

"Mm, what then?"

"Could you possibly contact someone for me? Have them meet me at a designated area?"

"Depends on who it is you want."

"Ah. One of your colleagues, Captain Marvel."

"..."

"Bruce?"

"Of all the people, why him?"

"I've come across a little, ah, magical mishap. Need some insight from the Champion himself."

"Champion? You mean that "Champion of Magic" title he's supposed to have."

"You find it ludicrous, but it is the truth. He's akin to the literal embodiment of magic itself."

"..." A faint rustling, and then some typing noises. Couple seconds flew by before, "His comm is off, and he has the bad habit of not reading any of my messages. I'll talk to him at the Watchtower tomorrow, assuming your mishap can wait?"

Catching his exhausted expression off the reflection of his phone, a snide remark died in his mouth and came out as a thankful, "Yes, that would be wonderful. Thank you, Bruce."

"...Are you really alright, Jason?"

"Hm?"

"You also have a nasty habit, always thinking that no one's there to help you when a lot of people are more than happy to."

"I assure you, Bruce, if I need help, I'll ask for it, hence our current conversation, no?"

"I'm just saying."

"I know, I know. I'm alright."

"If you say so. Then, I'll tell the Captain to meet you at the Gotham Clock Tower at?" he trailed off.

"10 P.M. if you could." Jason supplied.

"Alright. Anything else?"

"No. Once again, thank you, old friend."

"Get some sleep already, old timer," and the line went dead.

And Jason got back to work.

Billy slowly opened his eyes and saw that he was laying on the fanciest bed he has ever seen in his life. And comfiest. Is he still dreaming? Or is he dead? Deja vu? His hands and arms wriggled out from underneath the covers and plopped out onto the soft fabric that was his bedsheet. Then he tried moving his legs, and received a dull, throbbing pain from his right leg. Oh right. Etrigan's jaw broke it.

Oh right. Etrigan. Oh Gods, he's still in Mr. Blood's house! In Gotham!

He increased his careful wriggling. He had to get out, not because Mr. Blood's creepy and weird, that's a whole other can of worms; he's got the morning Watchtower shift! Billy managed to squirm out of the heavy blanket, but after all that and on an empty stomach since last morning, he flopped onto the bed, face down. Hunger he can handle, but this busted knee's really making his life extra hard. So should he just call down the lightning and burn down Mr. Blood's house in the process since crawling to the window and flipping outside doesn't sound like a viable choice? Scratch that, doesn't sound that bad actually. Mr. Blood's fault for tricking him into sleeping in a nice bed. Yeah. His fault for making him comfortable for the first time in years, Billy thought into the bedsheets.

"That looks, awfully uncomfortable, if I have to say." Speak of the devil, the man just opened his door.

"What do you want," he mumbled into the sheet. A clank. Billy lifted his face just enough for one eye to look. A metal tray with food on it?

"I made you breakfast. It's not much, but you should eat something. Wouldn't want you starving while you're in my care."

Billy flipped onto his back. "You're being awfully nice, again."

"As I should be, no sense in getting anyone upset. Here, careful now. Can you sit up a little?"

"Yeah."

Jason extended the legs of the small tray and placed it right over his legs. The boy stared at the food. A fluffy pancake with two sunny-side up eggs on the side. Gods, his mouth was watering. He looked at the older man, seeking approval.

"Go ahead. I made it for you, after all."

On cue, Billy began to wolf the food down. Wasn't the best breakfast food he's ever had, but it still tasted amazing. When was the last time anyone made him food that wasn't a fast food joint? Or some soup kitchen?

"You mentioned last night that you have business to take care of back in Fawcett?"

Billy almost choked at the sudden question, hastily swallowing whatever was in his mouth.

"Umm, yes, sir?"

"And you insist despite your broken knee?"

"I have magic to support me, though," he stuffed an egg in his mouth and began to chew.

"Hm. Then when can I expect you to return?"

Another almost choke and difficult swallow. "Huh? When did I say I wanted to stay here? You said I could leave whenever I wanted last night?"

"I meant for our collaboration on the magical disturbance happening in this very city. You do want to get to the bottom of this, no? My offer still stands, and with it, comes my assistance and these benefits," he tapped the bed frame.

Running the words a couple times through his head, Billy asked softly, "So you're saying you're letting me go back to Fawcett?"

"Yes."

"And that I really can choose to come back here or not?"

"Yes."

"But what if I don't need your help and I can solve this myself?"

"I recall the word you used last night was "squigglies"? I am often sought out to read and translate archaic languages or spells. And besides, I suspect you weren't aware of the artificial ley lines until I mentioned them? Therefore I have information you do not know, however the opposite applies as well."

"Huh?"

"I thought about it for some time. We both have fragments of one singular, large puzzle, meaning we need to work together in putting it back in order."

Oh, he's really good. And he's making a ton of sense, too. But, "Why me? I'm just a kid." It just slipped out and Billy cursed himself mentally. Literally walked into that. Mr. Blood already knows that he can use magic!

But out of left field, he answered with, "Because no one else felt the increase in magic."

What. What? He had his suspicions when nobody else in the League was panicking, but literally nobody except for the two people in this very room? "Wait? You're joking right?"

"I'm afraid not. There's one more individual that I need confirmation from, but Madame Xanadu, John Constantine, and several others all denied to have noticed anything out of the ordinary."

"But it really is happening! Like right now! The magic is still here!"

"And I agree with you. Which is why you're the only one I can turn to as of this moment, despite my reluctance to involve you in this. You offer a unique perspective, one different from that of my own; the other pieces of the puzzle. I'd be more than happy to properly discuss it with you if you so choose to come back after your responsibilities."

Gosh. Right back to the question. But to think that Jason Blood was saying that he was willing to trust and rely on Billy Batson! Not the Captain, but plain old Billy! It made him giddy at the thought, the added benefits and solving the mystery were just the cherry on top! And nothing to lose! In a flash, he stuffed the last piece of the pancake into his mouth and nodded fervently.

Jason chuckled at the sight. "I'll take that as a yes?"

Gulping the bite down, Billy beamed. "Yeah! It's a deal, Mr. Blood!"

"Please, call me Jason. We'll be working together, and "Mr. Blood" makes me feel so very old," he said as he removed the tray from the bed.

After licking his lips from the meal, the boy piped up, "By the way, what time is it again?"

"I'd say, almost eight? I started making your breakfast at around thirty so-"

"Holy moly, I really need to go. Mr. Blo, er, Jason? Can you help me up?"

"Where to, exactly?"

"To the window. My, uh, teleportation magic gets, uh, zappy."

"Zappy," he repeated with no inflection at all.

"Yes, very zappy. I don't want to ruin your house."

"Your concern is appreciated. I take it you don't want me here when you use it?"

"Yep," with the "p" popping ever so slightly.

Sighing, Jason moved to the window and lifted it, then he picked the boy up and set him down on the windowsill.

"Thanks, Jason! I'll be back before sundown!" Billy chirped.

A small grunt and a hand wave, and the door clicked shut.

Finally! Almost eight too, should have enough time to get to the Watchtower for his eight o'clock shift with the Speed of Mercury! Taking a deep breath, Billy Batson whispered,

"Shazam!"

Chapter Text

Is this the power of a full stomach? Or a somewhat good night's sleep on what he thought to be the softest bed in Gotham? Captain Marvel didn't know nor care as he sped through the halls of the Watchtower, throwing a sunny smile at any passerbys. Quickly reaching the Monitor Room's entrance, he took a deep breath and took one step forward. The sensor automatically triggered and the door slid open. Thank the Gods, especially Mercury, for letting him get here just in the nick of ti-

"Captain Marvel."

He froze. Sitting in front of all the monitors was Flash, his partner for the shift, bearing a grimace of a smile, and standing next to him was Batman.

"Batman, sir. Is something wrong?" Keep it professional, Billy.

"You've been cutting it very close recently."

"Fawcett's got its ups and downs. Sivana's been causing a lot of trouble lately, nothing that I can't handle of course, but delays couldn't be avoided. I'm sorry if it's caused any unnecessary problems for the other Leaguers."

"Hn. I see." Flash's eyes went wide as saucers. The boy mentally fist pumped for coming up with such a sound excuse.

"Your attendance aside, there's a matter I need to discuss with you."

Huh? "Sure, shoot."

"An important League contact wishes to speak with you."

"Wait, me?"

"Yes. Called me in the middle of the night due to the urgency of the matter."

Flash just continued to stare, eyes darting between them both.

"Any idea what it's about?"

"No, but you can ask him tonight at the Gotham Clock Tower. 10 P.M., sharp."

Wait, at Gotham? Batman's letting him into Gotham? Captain Marvel him?

"Of course, I expect you to arrive exactly on time and leave once business is done. He will inform me if there are any necessary follow ups."

Captain Marvel nodded. "Of course," he parroted.

"Good. I'll leave you two to your shift, then," a small nod directed at Flash and off he went, with only the sound of his cape fluttering and the door sliding closed.

Crisis averted.

"Dude, you were so cool. Is that what it's always like when you talk to Bats one-on-one?"

Captain Marvel deflated instantly and sat down, leaning heavily on the back of the seat. Despite being one of the Big Leaguers, Flash was always friendly and easy to talk with.

"Yeah. My heart's still pounding. Gods, I've been meaning to ask, but how do you guys handle him? I need to take notes."

His companion chuckled, "Big guy, I'm the one that was taking notes just now. That apology you gave? Mwah. Perfect-o." Flash swiveled his chair and cocked his feet onto the keyboard. "But seriously? Don't worry your handsome head over what Ol' Spooky says and does. He's just like that. Rumor has it that that's how he's like even out of the cape! Can you imagine how the missus feels? Not me, boss, never me. Ladies first, wives even more first, if that makes any sense. Kids, eh, cute little monsters but you just want to punt them out of orbit sometimes, if you know what I mean."

Not friendly, super friendly. All the Central City speedsters were like that, and once you get used to and put up with their rapid-fire mouths, they become really dependable close friends. Well, as close as Billy was willing to get with them, personal life and all that. But they don't really care and skirt by the topic once they notice the Captain's avoiding their questions, so all's good.

"Yeah, I kinda get it," thinking back to one of his foster siblings that always put the blame on him when a toy got broken. And then he always got beaten for it.

"Wonder what all that was about though. Mysterious big-shot League contact needs something from you? Never happened to me before, nope. You're making me jealous here with all the attention! Wait, but Bats said "he", so nevermind? Or wait, do you swing that way, Cap?"

"Swing?"

"You know. That way?" Flash's brow quirked upwards.

Oh. He finally understood and couldn't stop his cheeks from growing all red.

"N-no! Of course not!" The brow went even higher and Captain Marvel began to wave his hands frantically as if to literally clear the air. "Not that I have something against it! I just don't think I'm ready or capable of having a stable relationship of any sort!"

"Aw, don't sell yourself short, Cap. You're much, much, much more mature than my wife could ever wish for out of me!"

That's just depressing to hear and almost got him to calm down before Flash continued to ramble.

"But I get it, you're looking out for the little guys, right? Leaving more for people like Hal. Look at the poor guy and then look at Ollie. You're like in your early thirties, right? Roughly like Hal, but you guys, hoo, like night and day! You're like a solid eight out of ten, with a little point five if I'm feeling extra generous today. He's got a tight ass but no offense to the guy," he leaned in conspiratorially and whispered, "once you really get to know him, he's an ass through and through. A low six at best. Ladies like guys like you. Kind, big, cuddly, warm, and the list goes on! Oh, and superpowers that don't involve you wearing green spandex! Us red spandex-ers should stick together!"

Captain Marvel covered his burning face with both hands and groaned while Flash began to laugh like a hyena at his embarrassment.

Gods. Three and a half more hours to go before the shift ends.

And thankfully, it passed rather quickly after a small incident happened at the cafeteria. Flash nippily sketched a mock salute and took off, saying, "You just sit there and look pretty, Captain. I'll handle the mess and relieve the place of foo, I mean, of trouble! See ya!" Time flew by, and soon, he was on his daily Fawcett sky patrol.

It's really hard to dislike someone like Flash. Green Arrow was chill, too. It's just that they love talking about their personal lives that it makes Billy feel a little guilty when he's hanging out with them. He knows they don't mean to and they never press him for more details once he's refused or dodged once, but it just feels wrong.

He slowed down just enough to wave back at a kid who was tugging at his mother's shirt hem, pointing and cheering at him, the mother's smile warm and inviting as her eyes silently thanked him for his daily vigil. Captain Marvel nodded in acknowledgement, but the Billy inside just wanted to keep moving. That was enough to remind, to reinforce his belief as to why he was doing this in the first place.

After helping an old lady cross the street and getting a pet cat off of a tree right after, Captain Marvel waved his goodbyes and took off into the skies once more. He already circled the entirety of Fawcett City five times already, the usual amount. It should be around three in the afternoon now, judging by the time displayed when he passed the local police department. Time for Mr. Blood then, and after that, meeting up with the mystery contact from Batman who wanted to meet on the Gotham Clock Tower.

Depowering in alleyways was something that he has done many times already, but this was a special occasion. He conjured up a set of crutches with a quick spell and set them on the ground, and, "SHAZAM!"

Billy Batson floundered onto the ground as the smoke drifted off. Slowly, and ever so slowly, the boy propped himself up and began his journey to Jason Blood's manor which was just a couple blocks away. Soon, the door came to view and Billy lifted his right crutch to knock on the door.

Thud, thud, thud. Moments later, Jason Blood opened the door.

"You came."

"Yep. Like I said!"

His eyes traveled up and down. "Crutches? You went to the hospital?"

"Not really. Made them."

"Hm. Come on in, then," Billy obliged and Jason closed the door behind.

The older man briskly walked past him and motioned to the couches in the living room.

"Sit wherever you like, but do prop your wounded leg up, if you could."

"Yeah, I can do that, but why?" he said as he picked the one next to the fireplace, the one he first woke up on last night.

Jason picked up a small bundle from a side table and opened it up. Gods, it was a nasty looking sludge that gave off a pungent smell. "Uh, Mr. Blo-"

"Jason, and don't worry, this'll fix your leg right up. Tossed out the old batches ages ago and it took time to prepare, so I couldn't apply it on your leg when you slept here and had to use one of a lower quality instead. Ah, I must warn, it will sting a smidge. Now roll your pant leg up, please."

No way out of this, huh. Billy rolled it up as asked to do and revealed just, a bruise? It still hurt when he tried walking even with the crutches he just conjured up, but the swelling had gone down considerably. Lower quality, he said.

The man began to smear the nasty concoction over his knee, and as he did, he commented, "I hope you haven't named your crutches yet. Harder to part if you've already done so." 

Named? "What?" The slime was starting to make his skin itch.

With his clean right hand, Jason clutched his own chest and gasped dramatically as he finished wrapping the boy's leg up with gauze, "They've been helping you all day, and you haven't given them names? Or even thought about it? I take it all back, you're a scoundrel. A dirty little backstabber."

Billy let out a wet giggle. Mr. Blood wasn't like this last night, let alone when helping with League missions. At least not when he was interacting with the Captain. Looking back, Miss Zatanna did have a brighter smile whenever he was involved.

"Now, let it rest for a while. I'll bring the research to us." With a wave of a hand, a multitude of papers, both large and small, floated in from the adjacent room, and kept hanging in the middle of the air. Remind him to ask for that spell. "You can get a headstart as I'm washing this muck off."

And that he did after Jason walked away. The first paper that caught his eye was a large map of Gotham, and on it, he saw multiple locations circled and lines drawn across the city. Three lines to be more precise, one kinda running through the middle of Gotham, and the other two in the northwest and northeast respectively. Elegant handwriting littered the map, a little note here, a large paragraph there, but to Billy, anything outside of printed words was chicken scratch. At least he could read "Gotham". Saw that word way too many times to not know what it looks like at this point. One, two, three, he counted the circles. 16 circles. And one of the circled points next to the bottom edge of the city was a "Gotham H-something". Billy squinted and put two and two together. Gotham Harbor. Then that would mean the other circles? He poked at one in the northeast, on the upper-right edge of Gotham. It was on a line.

"Noticed a pattern?" Jason was drying his hand on a small handkerchief as he sat down on the couch next to Billy's.

"Um, some circles are on the lines? And the harbor, you circled it."

"Correct."

"But not all of them are on the lines? Like this one," he prodded one in a field of green, "and this big line in the middle has no circles."

"That big ley line would be Gotham's natural one. It's been here for centuries." Oh. "And as for the other circled locations, I have nothing yet. The one thing I'm certain of is that all the circled locations are either within or directly on top the ley lines." Jason shrugged. "This is essentially all I have to contribute asides from myself. What about you?"

"Well," Billy drew out the word, "I don't really know. I mean I know I feel a lot of things going on in this city and one slightly more noticeable thing, but I don't really know where it is. Like I can point?"

"That's good enough, no?"

"No, not like point at a place on the map. I meant that I can point in a direction right now from your house."

"That's, that's not as good. Especially with your current predicament."

"Yeah. Not good."

Jason rubbed his chin, and then suddenly clapped his hands together and rose to his feet. "I do believe I have a way to solve this problem," and then with a glance at Billy, he finished, "a ride around town."

"Wait! A ride? B-but?"

"Well, I don't trust myself behind the wheel, and magic is far too conspicuous if we take your injury into account, that is."

"Th-then how?"

"I just have to call an old friend for some help."

Chapter Text

It wasn't long after Jason made the call before a dirty looking car pulled up and the driver's window rolled down. The amount of gel this stranger used on his brown hair was horrifying; it was reflecting the sunlight onto the pavement. He flashed a loopy grin at Jason as he tipped his shades down.

"Hey, Jase old pal, didn't think you'd ever call me out again after all that, ya know, stuff. How's it goin'? What's with the kid?"

"Harry, this is Billy, a little helper of sorts. Billy, Harry, an old friend who's a swindler by trade."

"Rude," the man popped a lit cigar into his mouth and held out a hand, "Harry Matthews, professional advertiser, Gotham's darlin' huckster, and life-long pal of this prick you're standin' next to. Pleasure to meet ya."

Billy shook the hand. Ew, it was greasy from Gods know what, but it was a friendly shake.

Retracting his hand, Harry motioned for the two to get in. Just as he was about to climb in, Jason held the boy back. "Front seat, and don't forget your seatbelt."

Wait, he could sit in the front? Isn't that place just for grownups? He turned to look at the man, but he was already attempting to sit in the cluttered back seat filled with junk. Ah.

"A top-notch British gentleman, ladies and gents. Hop on in, kiddo, we're goin' for a joyride."

Once settled down, Harry turned his head to face Jason, foot already poised and ready to slam onto the pedal with full force. "I'm not gonna ask what you're doin' with a little kid Jase, don't want to get involved with your voodoo biz ever again, but just to be sure, I'm not gonna be drivin' to Hell, right?"

"Of course not. I would never put you through something like that again."

"Right. Then where to?"

"That's not up to me to decide."

"Jase, please no more cryptic bullshit. You know my head's only for crunchin' numbers and the busty ladies."

"Billy will tell you where to go."

"The kid?" he turned to face his little passenger still trying to get the belt on. "Here, kid," he took the head and snapped it into its slot.

"Thanks, Mr. Matthews! And yeah, I'll tell you which direction to go."

Harry slumped onto the wheel and muttered under his breath, "The hell I got myself into this time. Jase, you owe me so damn much."

"I know. Now onwards, noble steed."

"Call me a horse again and I'll get the Bat to kick yer ass. Now, hold on, it's goin' to be a bumpy ride!"

"Left! You need to go to the left, Mr. Matthews!" Three minutes on the road and Billy was already fearing for his life.

A sharp swerve to the right. "Relax, Billy bean, I know what I'm doin'! There's a shortcut 'round the corner!"

"But you don't understand! That's not how this works!"

"Nah, kiddo, leave it to yer ol' Uncle Harry, alright?

"Holy moly, I can't die like this!"

"Please drive a little slower, Harry. Neither of us can concentrate like this."

"Well sorry, "Mr. Blood", for not meetin' your hoity-toity standards; ya asked for my services and that's exactly what'cha get!" Another sharp turn but this time it was a hard left. And another.

"Jason! Who the heck is this guy!" Billy wailed as his hands gripping onto the seat belt strapped across his chest turned white from force, looking at the man who brought him into this deathmobile through the rear view mirror.

Harry spun the wheel again and the momentum flung his friend right into a stacked pile of trash. The box at the top tumbled on cue onto Jason's head, spilling a bundle of unwashed, horribly stained shirts onto the man. Gods, please keep me from laughing.

With the patience and poise of someone who has spent 1,500 years trapped within his own body, Jason picked the worst offender, the one draped over his eyes, off, and growled through gritted teeth, "A man with nothing but cotton between his ears, but he's been with me from the start, standing firm without fears. Don't worry, child."

Chills. Major chills.

"That's right, kiddo! Known the guy for what, eightee-"

"Twenty-three years. We met when you were kicked out by your college peers."

Huh? Wait a second.

"Oof, right. Blocked that out completely. Man, why'dja have to bring that up, Jase?"

"Because you're a fool. Really, doing drugs in the middle of class? Bribing the faculty?"

Was he just imagining things?

"Listen, Jase, you've been 'round for so long, you need a blunt. You know what, make that two, on the house; one for you, one for the big guy inside."

"No. And no to you as well, don’t even start."

"Loosen up! Live a little! Ya gotta remove that stick lodged up yer a-"

"Wait!" Billy suddenly screamed, "Stop the car!"

Harry slammed on the brakes and the car skidded to a halt. The boy took off his seatbelt and limped out of the car.

The two men shared a look and quickly followed, ignoring the angry honks from other cars that passed by right after they stopped. Jason's pace, particularly hastened, caught up to the boy, standing still in the middle of the road, right next to Gotham Central Park.

"Billy, I must apologize on behalf of us both, I didn't mean to ups-"

"No! It's not that! Really, some of it was kind of funny, like all the dirty clothes on you. Then it got weird, but still okay. It's this."

He tapped the ground with his good foot.

"I think there's something down here. It's really strong in this one spot."

"Hey, Jase, lookie over there." The man's gaze followed his friend's outstretched arm.

A manhole.

"Good luck, buddy! Just think, it doesn't get worse than Etty's breath!"

Unintelligible grumbles and one "Shut up, Harry" echoed from below the hole that led into the sewage system.

Billy sat on the sidewalk near one of the many entrances of the park and watched as the man shambled towards him, and sat down next to him with an exaggerated "oomph". Part of him is thankful to not need to go diving into the sewers, but another part of him wants to go down with Jason, to make sure that he's going to be alright. Teamwork and all that.

"Hey, chin up, Billy bean, it'll take more than just a lil' stink for Jase to keel over. Trust me, he's been through a lot." Reaching down into his pocket, he took out a cigar and his lighter. Soon, puffs of smoke escaped his lips. "So uh, kiddo, what's this, uh, the deal with you 'n Jase?"

"Long story short, Gotham's in some magical trouble, and only Jason and I know that something's up. So here we are."

"So here you are," Harry chewed on his cigar as he echoed. "Hear me out, kid, Jase's got a whole lotta stuff piled on his already full plate. Help him out as much as you can, if you can, 'kay? I'd love to help, but the stuff he got into scared the livin' hell outta me, no pun intended."

"You've known him for a long time, huh, Mr. Matthews?"

"Yup, twenty-three years if you can believe that. His ugly brother? Eh, a little shorter, but not by that much."

Twiddling his fingers, Billy looked at the man and asked, "What's the deal with him, anyways?"

"Like the deal deal?"

"Yeah. Only heard stories, but you seem like you know, well, him."

Harry leaned back. "He's a good man, even if he says he ain't. Only knew his name and what he was good at, which was demons, when we first met."

"So he really liked his privacy?"

The man shook his head. "Other way 'round, kid. Turned out, Etty was messin' with his head and memories 'cuz he almost drove Jase insane."

"Holy moly."

"Yep. Etty's a real piece o' work, ain't he. His ol' pops? Even worse. Ate my soul and turned me into a pillow."

Billy's head snapped towards Harry, who was grinning lopsidedly with the cigar stuck between his teeth. "Yep. A fuckin' pillow. Etty 'n a ragtag group of crazies saved my soul, and Jase made a hummus somethin'," he gestured at himself, "and fixed me right up. Still beats himself up to this day 'cuz yeah, it technically was his fault, but he's my buddy, you know. Can't really bring myself to hate him."

"But you really wanna know somethin'?" He rested an arm on Billy's shoulder and whispered next to his ear, "I still dunno anythin' about what happened before."

"Before?"

"You know, before Gotham. Like what the hell did that bastard Etty make him do to warrant a full blown mind wipe? And I know Jase remembers now, made him cut all ties with me and 'nother guy and his own girl, but that's the thing. That's what's still hurtin' him."

Wow.

"Try wheedlin' it outta him, why don'cha."

"Huh? I don't think he'll tell me."

"Trust me, Billy bean. I recognized that look in his eyes. Prick's gone all soft. He's like a cup o' joe, hard on the outside, bitter on the inside."

"I don't really get it."

"Yeah, I dunno where I was goin' with that, give me a break, kid. Not used to this kinda talk. But seriously, he was a huge softie before Etty fucked all of us over. Laughed a lot more too."

Billy looked back towards the manhole and then looked at his own hands. He thought Jason had it rough already, having to deal with Etrigan, but all this? All of Billy's problems seemed so, inconsequential now.

"So kiddo," the man drawled. "You like the guy?"

"Still getting used to him."

"You don't say."

"Yeah, it's only been like, half a day since we officially met."

Harry's arm slipped off his shoulder and he collapsed onto the pavement before scrambling back up, cigar left on the ground.

"The hell? What the fuck, kid, I thought you two were close! I told you to, I, argh. Kid, you're killin' me here. And you know about the big ugly guy too. What the hell?"

"Sorry."

"Don't be. Forget what I said, then. He ain't yer responsibility. Take it from me, Billy, once whatever all this," his arms waved in a large circular motion around himself, "is done, just stay away from him."

"Bu-"

"No buts, kiddo. Don't get me wrong, Jase is still a good guy, but Etty's all sorts o' fucked up and that fucked Jase up real bad. Trust me when I say this, you do not want to end up dead, or even worse, as Jase's couch pillow. A life of luxury for some, but it really ain't worth it when ya don't got limbs. I've been there."

"But you're still here helping him."

The man bent down to pick his cigar off the ground and stuck it back into his mouth. Ew.

"That's cuz I've known the prick for twenty-three years, not half a fuckin' day, kiddo. And I'm just a glorified cabby. You heard me when I told him, that I wanted nothin' to do with this other than a surface level. When you deal with Jase, you're the one that's gonna get sucked into Hell. Literally and metaphorically. And he's gonna feel sorry about it while sittin' there safe 'cuz of Etty, but that's it. He's used to feelin' bad. Only reason why he got off his ass for me was 'cuz it was me."

Just then, a clanging noise started. Soft at first, and gradually, rhythmically, grew louder and closer. The manhole. Jason. The two didn't budge even an inch as they watched the man's head, then back, then entire body come out of the hole.

"Hey, kiddo, what we just talked about? Keep it between us, ya hear? Best if ya forgot, but just don't bring it up with him, 'kay? Also, don't even bother helpin' him; it ain't worth it. You's got a family 'n all that, don't throw them away for that guy. Nod if you hear me." Nod. "Good kid, now come on, let's see what Jase found. Mind the nose."

Fully prepared to cover his nose, Billy was pleasantly surprised to notice no awful smell coming from Jason at all. Just as he was about to ask, Harry cut in.

"The hell, Jase? Why don't you smell like the shit you are?"

The man in question, expression more grim than usual, patted off some dirt from his pants that got on when he climbed out and knelt on the road. He gave a disinterested look at his friend, and waved him off with one word, "Magic." Harry scoffed loudly.

"Oh, you wanna be that way, huh. You know I like hearin' about your little parlor tricks. Bet the kiddo does too. While you were down there swimmin' in shit, I was tellin' him about the time you stole a fuckin' condom and still paid for it!"

Billy's hands instinctively covered his mouth, desperately trying to keep him from bursting out in laughter. After all that stuff Mr. Matthews unloaded on him about Jason, this is such a refreshing change of pace! Gods, this day is starting to become too much for him to handle. The legendary Jason Blood? Actually a huge softie that got covered in dirty clothes of his friend and was forced to go into the sewers. And now this? Stealing a condom? Sneaking a peek at Jason, he saw that the man was shooting a death glare on par with Batman's at his friend, a faint blush creeping over his usually pale cheeks.

"That was one time, and you've been holding that over my head ever since you found out. Very mature. I should have never told you. Wipe that foolish grin off your face and get back in the bloody car already, Harry."

The brunette gave a cheeky wink at Billy before moseying back to the car. Billy made the effort to go as well, but was stopped by Jason.

"Now that he's gone, there's something I need to tell you first."

"Here?"

"Yes, I'm not involving Harry in this any further than driving around the place. As I was saying, there really was something down there. A single word in Greek, imbued with powerful magic that neither I nor Etrigan could detect until I touched the letters. It said, "sfeteristís"."

He hadn't realized he was holding his breath when he exhaled. "Holy moly. "Usurper"."

A small pause, then Jason asked, "Any significance? Ringing any bells?"

"I, uh. Maybe? I'm really not sure."

"Work with me, Billy. We're finally getting somewhere."

"It's really complicated. I mean-"

Honk! Honk!

"Hey, you two! Are ya comin'? I ain't got all day, ya know?"

Jason and Billy glanced at each other. They'll finish this talk back at the manor.

Chapter Text

Harry dropped them back off at the manor at a little before six, and it was a horrible ride back just as it was when they first departed.

After the discovery down in the sewers, the boy confirmed that it really was the same energy signature that he had been pursuing last night before getting jumped by muggers and ended up at Gotham Harbor. Considering how these magical hotspots, both the kind Billy can detect and the ones that Jason and Etrigan could, just emerged out of nowhere and seemingly in random locations, they came to the agreement to drive around aimlessly for a while. And that they did. And they found nothing. Billy felt nothing. Jason and Etrigan neither.

And throughout the roadtrip, Harry kept yapping about a wide variety of topics. From his work in the industry to recent news; the man's mouth was like an open floodgate and useless babble just kept flowing out of it. Some caught Billy's attention and even got a laugh or two out of the boy, but most of it was just polite nodding. Jason on the other hand, sat quietly in the backseat, listening to his old friend whom he hasn't seen in person for a long time already. They used to write letters, but as the days progressed and Jason and his demon getting involved with more and more escapades, they just, stopped.

"For the record, Harry is quite agreeable. More visiting hours is foreseeable."

No. He's caused Harry enough trouble already. Even though the homunculus body had ended up being an exact replica of Harry's old body before it got eviscerated by Belial, it still wasn't his body anymore. His friend's life has finally gotten back on track, thanks to Bruce's assistance, but there just was no forgetting everything that had happened.

"Beggars getting to pick and choose is unheard of. Don't forget, it's your fault for not preparing an extra dove."

And it was. It most certainly was. Bruce's words echoed in his head, "always thinking that no one's there to help you when a lot of people are more than happy to." Then there was Harry who jumped at the chance to see him again despite all odds, racing down the streets of Gotham without even the slightest clue as to what was in store for him.

It's fine. A little meeting arrangement here, a little drive around town there. Jason inhaled steadily. He was brave enough to ask for help.

"You've convinced yourself that's all that was entailed? Etrigan believes that you've utterly failed."

But he reached out, no? And they've helped. That's enough. Any further and they'll get burned.

"Alright, Etrigan concedes and lets you wallow in your solitude. But do answer, why draft the wretched child into servitude?"

That's different.

"The generosity? For show, for compliance."

Stop.

"And now, you've gained a steady alliance."

Please.

"Yet, 'tis not his knowledge nor magic that's the best, oh no no."

No, I haven't sunk that low.

"Nor the fact that you use him as a dowsing machine."

I'm not, I, I can't be that obscene.

"Come now, Blood. You'll feel better if you say it."

Damn you to the Pit.

"Fine, be difficult. I'll say it for you, then. He's disposable."

He's a child. A life. You'll never understand. Far from expenda-

"-se! Hey, Jase, you in there? Hello?" Snapping out of his thoughts, he looked up to see Harry waving a hand in front of his face and Billy's small face creased with a worried frown. The car had stopped. When? "I've been callin' ya. Gettin' tired, pal? Age finally catchin' up?"

Jason shook his head. "Thinking about what I saw in the sewers. I believe a meeting with Mr. Wayne needs to be arranged, seeing the work he's done on renovating places like the Gotham Museum." An incredulous look from Harry. No matter.

"Sure thing, Jase. Whatever ya say. All I was sayin' was that we're here." So they were.

After Billy and himself got out of the death trap, he turned to Harry, who was still in the car. "Harry, it's almost time for supper. Would you care to join?"

"Sorry, Jase. I got a date with this hot dame in this accountin' firm I pass by every mornin'. My natural charisma won her over and even managed to book a reservation down at that Iceberg place at half past six."

"Mm. Likely story," he paused to soak in a loud "Hey!" from his friend. "But I believe you. Have a nice evening, Harry."

"You're a real piece o' work, Jase. Have a good one, too. And kiddo?"

"Yes, Mr. Matthews?"

"Run if ya get yerself in trouble, ya hear? Don't be a hero." He's known Harry far too long to not be incapable of picking out that he's implying something. What it was, perhaps it was said when he was down in the sewers? Seems harmless enough, though. Just let it slide, for old time's sake.

A few more waves and Harry's car sped off. Jason weaved his fingers through the air and opened his front door, dispelling the wards he'd placed all over the manor temporarily, and walked in. Distantly, he noted the boy quietly following close behind him. Fantastic. He's gone and made the child skittish around him again. Is it too late to ask Harry to come back to lighten the mood? Pull yourself together, Jason.

He cleared his throat to catch the boy's attention. "I'm sure you're eager to start the discussion, but how about a meal?"

"Oh, it's alright, Mr. Blo, I mean, Jason. Your breakfast was really good."

Breakfast? What does that have to do with, oh no.

"Billy, how many square meals a day do you have on average?"

"Uh, none? I don't think I've eaten any, uh, square-ish meals?"

"No, I meant that as in a nice, balanced meal. How many times do you eat, daily?

"Th-three?" The boy's gaze went to his shoes.

"Try again."

"T-two."

"Billy. I won't get angry."

"Alright, alright! Once if I'm lucky or if the nice baker lady across the street decides to give me cheap bread!"

The silence was deafening.

"What a lad. Now, are you a cad?"

No. Not yet. I'm not you, after all.

"Not yet, but soo-"

"Listen, Billy. I won't let you swoon. Sit tight, look over my research again. I'll go prepare some supper for you."

"But I'm really fine! I can last like, two days on that breakfast you gave me-" the boy's stomach growled, interrupting the conversation.

Billy blushed furiously as a small, knowing smile emerged on Jason's face. "Sounds to me that someone vehemently disagrees. It'll be a moment, so you can nod off if you want." And off he went to work.

Upon reaching the kitchen, he closed his eyes and took a deep breath.

"Hypocrite." His own mental voice overlapped over Etrigan's accusation.

"Doesn't matter if he's a child or not, you shouldn't push onto others, weren't you taught?" mocked the demon.

"I can sleep and eat as much as I want when everything's over. I'm different from the boy. We're different."

His eyes rolled, forced to mirror what Etrigan was doing inside; a nauseating sensation. "Different? Pah, only reason why you are alive, man, is because of the might of Etrigan."

Four hours of sleep in over a week. Not a single morsel of food had passed his lips either. Too busy. Too much work to do. Too many things to look into. He couldn't justify wasting even a second of it on his own maintenance. And it's not as if he's never done it before, abusing the fact that he's got a powerful, demonic battery powering his core, pumping a ridiculous amount of life-sustaining magic through his ancient veins. Payment was just a large amount of mental fatigue; he's only human after all, no human mind was crafted with the intent of withstanding so much strain without any relief. Jason learned to cope, to temper his mortal needs, but his conduct could only carry him this far, and it was catching up to him.

"Keep it up, Etrigan's rooting for you! After all, once collapsed, there's nothing you can do."

To stop his inner demon from taking full control. To hold him back. Etrigan lets out a yawn that escapes out Jason's mouth along with a hint of sulfur at the base of his tongue, the bastard, as he snugly rests against Jason's consciousness.

Opening his fridge and reaching inside, Jason chose to keep ignoring, both his demon and his body. All he has to do is get this problem solved as soon as possible. Then he can rest incrementally. He's already wasting enough time as is on the boy.

Thank the Morningstar for giving him the slightest of reprieves; the boy wasn't resting, he was looking over his notes, and judging by how many of the floating papers' positions have shifted and the boy's scrunched up nose, Billy had been working very hard. Time for a small reward.

"Little one," the boy perked up. "It's time for a break, don't you think?" On cue, he showed the boy what he was holding. Braised lamb shanks and some garlic butter baby potatoes. Billy's stomach growled even louder at the sight.

"Holy moly." His eyes were growing wet. "Is this, is it all really for me?"

Was this really such a big deal? But, judging the orphan's circumstances, it's not all too difficult to believe. Jason put up a warm smile and nodded, letting go of the plate to allow it to drift in front of Billy.

"Go ahead," he urged once more, "we'll discuss as you eat, just like this morning."

Billy nodded before tucking in with gusto.

Deep breath. Time for business. First things first, the Gotham City map could not be dismissed. Seeing how studious the child was, Jason was mildly perturbed at how the location they visited today was not yet marked down when he glanced at the map. No notation of any sort. Bizarre, it was right next to Gotham Central Park, wasn't it? He could vaguely recall the large sign that hung over where Billy and Harry sat, that large "Robinson Park" sign. Ah. Figures. The lad is from Fawcett after all, but there was still a nagging feeling. Something that wasn't sitting right with him.

"Leaping before you look? How daring! Though beware, it may be a red herring."

The roundabout way it is, then. "Say, Billy."

"Mm hmm?" He was chewing on a small potato.

"After all this is over, any place you would like to go sightseeing? Like Robinson Park, perhaps? Lovely place during this time of the year."

"Huh? You mean Central Park? Weren't we like, next to it today?"

Curious and curiouser. "Indeed. Come to think of it, could you be a dear and mark today's place down on the map? You can choose whatever color you want as long as it's a new one," motioning to the floating markers strewn across the room.

A beat of silence into an uneasy, "Sure?" Billy let his meal float to one side and grabbed onto the map and a green marker.

Jason hummed in approval. Task number two. Extending his left index finger, he muttered a spell under his breath, and wrote "κατακτητής" in the air. The letters gave off a faint, white light. 

"That is so, so cool. This floaty spell, too."

"Isn't it? I can teach you how, if you wish."

"Really, Jason? You really will?"

What a nostalgic feeling. Reminds him of Zatanna when her father asked to let her learn from him, as well as watchi, no, enough reminiscing. He turned and smiled at the boy, "Indeed, I promise. But are you done with circling?"

"Uh. Um. Not yet?" 

"Here, let me take a look." The boy quickly circled a location and slumped, defeated, allowing the man to scooch over to his side. Jason took one long look at his map and, "Why did you circle Gotham Sanitation Center?"

"My, uh, hand slipped?"

"Really. When Gotham Central Park is," his finger slid from the circled area to a green blotch miles away, "here."

Billy's eyes trailed onto the lamb rack that he had been in the middle of demolishing. One final push will do.

"Billy, are you perhaps, illite-"

"I can read! I can!" he hastily defended himself. "I'm just not that good at it yet! I can get better! I really can! Please, I didn't mean to lie!"

So he really is illiterate. Then that must mea-

"No. No, you know what, I'm not gonna do this anymore."

What?

"You keep trying to butter me up, and being all nice to me, but then you're always doing these, these, mind games! I'm not too smart, I get that, but Gods, you make me feel awful!"

The boy covered his eyes with his hands. "Gods. You keep making me think I have a choice, but then I just fall into whatever trick you've laid out. And then you turn around and do something nice or funny or make me think that you're normal, and then you make me feel sick right after! I can't do this anymore! I really can't!"

He shot up and winced, probably because he stood up so fast, the medicine not having fully taken effect. "You can keep your fancy shmancy stuff. I'm going home. And for the record?" He pointed at the glowing words still hanging in the air. "I don’t know what you wrote, but I'm two hundred percent sure it's not sfeteristís, "usurper". There you go. Another one of your tricks. So here's what you wanted to know, right, that I'm also good at Greek and not just the stupid language I'm speaking. And that I can't read or write."

"I've got feelings too, you know. Just because I'm not some jerk who's been alive too long and seen too much, doesn't mean that I don't." Billy sniffles, his eyes growing red. "But you keep treating me like I'm just, just some kid! I thought real hard and long, and even the way you asked for my help was super weird. And I feel like I'm being bribed the entire time! Food, bed, medicine, well, screw all that! I don't need that anymore. I don't need anyone. Especially not you. Miss Zatanna really likes you. Mr. Matthews said that you're a good guy. They both care about you lots. But you know what? You know what I think? You're just a very, very selfish man who's too uppity to ask for help."

He began limping to the front door. "You can forget our "deal". I'm leaving. Goodbye, Mr. Blood." He soon went out of sight, a slam resounded through the manor, a loud crack outside, and all was quiet once more.

"I like that kid."

Chapter Text

Captain Marvel soared through the murky skies of Gotham, the lightning symbol on his chest providing just enough light to see around himself. Gods, how does anyone put up with Mr. Blood? He's so different from other adults who were just plain mean or treated him like he was some disposable piece of garbage, however he was weird in a different way. Billy knows he was trying to be nice from what he had gathered from everything he's heard about the man, but it all just came out even worse. Kicking the air behind him, he shot through several clouds in a blink of an eye and before he knew it, he was back in Fawcett.

He huffed as he landed on a water tower. But great going, Batson, you're back to square one. Well, almost square one. He now knew that artificial ley lines were involved, and there's some thing about a "usurper", in Greek, nonetheless. There was also the squigglies he saw back at Gotham Harbor, and those definitely weren't Greek. Nor Arabic. What the heck were the odds that he himself was one of the only two, well, three people, that felt everything going on and it just so happened to have Greek involved? Like, zero? It's like if someone's made a nice sandwich, wrote his name on it, called him there, and then told him to his face that it's not for him. Should he get Wonder Woman involved? She's Greek and has magical powers, right? 

And "usurper". It can't be Black Adam, right? They made a deal and he's supposed to stay in Kahndaq indefinitely. So why's he getting all upset and calling him a usurper again? Gods, this is making no sense. Mr. Mind? He's super smart, right? But he was placed into a small can and kicked out of the universe a couple months ago; hopefully the worm flies all the way back to Venus and just remains there. Sivana? Locked up behind bars for five weeks already after he tried a harebrained scheme to turn Billy into an actual big red cheese wheel, which almost worked, too. Mice bit off the gag wrapped around Billy's mouth, allowing him to Shazam out of the cheesy situation.

He sat down, legs hanging over the side, mindlessly kicking the air. "Whatever, I've got enough information now. I think. I can work with this." Maybe drop by Doctor Fate's place and persuade him to help? Or head to the Rock of Eternity to get a broader view of the entire thing? A lot of options to pick from, after meeting up with the mystery contact, that is. It sure does feel good to be back home though, that's for sure.

Standing up, he stretched his arms and heard a satisfying pop coming from his back. Is this what it'll be like when he gets older? But without the muscles? Anyways. He leapt off the water tower and strolled down the brightly illuminated streets of Fawcett. He's been gone for some time and hasn't been paying much attention to his own city, much to his dismay. It can't be helped that he's the only hero, but thankfully, once all the major threats, all three of his "arch-nemeses", were out of the picture, it's been relatively simple crimes that the FCPD have been more than happy to help their local hero out with. More time to help out with League stuff, and now, this Gotham stuff.

Ah, there he is! Just in time to catch him before his commute back home after a long day of work! Zipping next to the man, Captain Marvel beamed a large smile and clapped him on the shoulder.

"How's it going, Morris?"

"Gah! Scared the bejesus outta me, Captain!"

"Sorry, sorry. Didn't mean to." Mr. Sterling Morris, his, well, Billy's boss down at WHIZ Radio. A grouchy old man with a heart of gold and eyes only on the gold as well.

"Ah, forget it, Cap. Say, haven't received dozens of reports about you lately. Been busy with the League? Any juicy details? Kid's coming up short, too, when he's used to churning out smash hits after smash hits on you. His dynamite mind's fizzling out, if you ask me. Decent quality, but just don't hit as hard recently, with or without you in the center. Gotta find a way to light it up again, so throw me a bone, eh, old friend?"

Geez, he's got enough to worry about and now his boss is fussing over the quality of his reports? Old friend was really pushing it, but Morris had helped Billy a ton of times by giving him access to a lot of unauthorized locations in the name of journalism and loosely enforced child labor laws. And that was directed to the Captain, not Billy.

"Got caught up on some nasty stuff that's not entirely related to the League, so sorry, Morris."

"Keep the sorries. It's fine; if a couple slow days like these could kill us off, WHIZ'd gone under ages ago. Besides, I know the kid'll pull through. Always does. Kinda like you in a way."

"I'm sure he would be ecstatic if you told him that."

"Oh, definitely. But can't let him get a big head, gotta keep his head to the ground. Humility, that's how he'll become the next Clark Kent." Yup, heart of gold. His heart was fluttering with pride, hearing the confidence his boss had in him.

"And then WHIZ'll take over the Daily Planet and become the best source of news and entertainment in the country!" Yup, that's Mr. Morris alright.

"Say, Morris."

"Yeah? Lucky I'm already off the clock, but make it snappy. You don't get special treatment just because you saved my life a couple dozen times."

"I just wanted to ask if anything big happened while I wasn't, you know, around to help out."

The man tugged on his small mustache and twisted a few strands between his fingers. "Only thing that comes to mind was Captain You-Know-Who's remaining fanatics. Couple days ago. Tried pulling off a heist in the bank to fund the coming of "The Fourth Reich", the crazy bastards, but the FCPD put a stop to them in less than, what, half an hour? Been quiet."

A sigh of relief. "Thank the Gods for being quiet."

"Yeah, good for you, Cap, but bad for us down at the radio station! No pizzazz! Nothing of shock-value or value!"

"I've got a feeling that I'm going to have a big scoop for you guys after I'm done with everything." Oh, and speaking of writing scoops, "Let Billy take a couple days off, he'll need it to prepare for what's coming up," he added. Can't really do his usual gig down at WHIZ if he's going to be spending most of his time investigating in Gotham. On his own.

"Made a deal with the kid behind my back, huh, Cap. Sure. Fine. I'll take your word for it. And remember, don't go wandering off to those other crooks; they'll just bleed you dry. But not us! WHIZ'll always have your back!"

"Thanks for heads up, Morris. Oh, and by the way, do you have the time?"

"Card said fifteen to ten when I swiped."

"Thanks, Morris!"

"You're welcome. Take care, Captain."

And he shot off, headed back to Gotham.

Even before he landed his golden boots on the clock tower, he saw a figure sitting, hunched over one of the ledges. His mystery contact. Gently touching down behind, Captain Marvel approached the person, but just before he could call out, a soft and tired voice drifted into his ears.

"I'm thankful that you've made the time to meet with me. I have many questions, and hopefully, you'll have the answers to ah, my predicament, Captain."

Oh no. Not him.

The man turned his head around to face Captain Marvel, the single white stripe running through his red hair almost hurt his eyes with the contrast, his sharp angular features were lit by the moonlight, and Gods. Did he always look this, this worn? His once fierce violet eyes were sunken and dull, heavy bags underneath them. Posture, slumped and weary. The man tapped the ledge next to him with his index finger, an invitation.

Billy wanted to leave.

Captain Marvel obliged and sat down next to the man.

Jason Blood.

Gods, this is so awkward.

Jason cleared his throat to break the silence. "I'll be honest, Champion. I wished to ask you something, but now, after giving it a long and much deserved thought about it, I realized it didn't really matter anymore. I mean, why would it? Time does have a knack for smoothing out bumps, and perhaps, just perhaps, I've been too, hasty, in dealing with this situation of mine."

Captain Marvel put up a comforting smile. "I see. Sounds to me like whatever was bothering you is sorting itself out. But you mentioned you had questions. What might they be about, sir?"

The older man squeezed his eyes shut and massaged his temple. Another deep sigh. "Frankly, I wanted to call this meeting off, but right before I contacted Batman again, I recalled that you were, as Zatanna described, a great listener. I was hoping that you could listen to the woes of a wretched man and offer some counsel."

Captain Marvel listened, and agreed. "I'd love to be of help."

Jason nodded with gratitude, his eyes trailing off towards the Gotham night sky. "I deeply wronged a child. Treated him like he was something expendable and tried to fool myself into thinking that I wasn't doing so. Looked at him like he was nothing more than the orphan he was, despite, well, despite being crucial in the matter I was looking into. Tried my best to keep my thoughts out of my mouth, but they slipped out through my actions or twisted my words."

Captain Marvel frowned. "That doesn't really sound like something you would do, Blood. You were always pleasant to work with, and most, if not all of the Justice League holds you in high regard, including myself."

A bitter chuckle. "With age comes experience, I suppose. Could hide my vile nature from those capes and you, but clearly, I'm bloody awful at dealing with children. The way the boy looked at me, the way he spat out his words, I've been replaying everything on loop ever since he stormed out of my house."

Violet eyes met with blue eyes. "How, just how, should I approach this, Captain Marvel? I wish to apologize, but Hell, I don't even know where he lives. Or his living conditions. I, I never asked. I never cared."

Captain Marvel mused. "Sounds to me that you don't really mean it, if you ask me, no offense. Sounds like you're just making an excuse to win him back."

He turned his eyes away, shakily breathing out, "It does, doesn't it. Bloody hell, what have I become."

Captain Marvel hummed. "I think you should give it time. Smoothing out bumps, right?"

Jason looked up and opened his mouth as if to protest, but then he shut it again and glanced away. "Right. You're right. The wait will make me feel awful, but it can't be worse than what the child is going through right now."

"Yeah. Once everyone's a little calmer, I'll help you look for him. Then you can have a proper apology."

"I would like that very much, thank you."

Captain Marvel tapped his own cheek, posing as though contemplating. "I believe you said, questions? As in plural?"

"Ah, yes. About that. The boy is from Fawcett."

"Ah."

"I was hoping that, if it were possible, could you take the boy in? Perhaps as a sidekick or assistant? He's very studious and hardworking, and if it's about his magical core, it's a strong one. Nigh undetectable, but there. I'm sure of it."

The irony was palpable.

Captain Marvel put on a serious face. "I might try, but I don't see why I should make an exception for him. Despite seeming like the complete opposite of Gotham, my city still has a really seedy underbelly with its fair share of problems. Homelessness hits both children and adults. Our foster care system is surprisingly broken. I can't possibly keep all the children alive on my own, so what makes this kid special aside from wielding magic?"

Jason fell silent. And in a hushed whisper that was almost carried away by the wind, "I know what you want me to say. You want me to take the boy in, don't you. But I can't. I just, can't."

Captain Marvel shrugged. "Maybe? Maybe not. It's just that, if you made the boy that angry, it meant you betrayed his trust or something along those lines. But see, there was trust. Or even the slightest slivers of hope that you would be different, different from the system and adults that had failed him before."

Silence again, until an unamused snort. "Different, you say. Tell me, Captain, do you know what is the greatest sin a man can commit?"

"No, sir. I can think of many evil acts, but maybe murder? Taking a life is irreversible, after all." It chilled him to the core, how those words just came out with such calmness thanks to the Courage of Achilles, a stark reminder that he was an avatar of the Gods right now and not just Billy.

"Quite right. The answer, well, answers, are closely related to murder. The answers are filicide and uxoricide. The killing of one's own children and wife."

"Where are you going with thi-"

"And I've done them both. A lifetime ago. With my own two hands. Granted, I wasn't sound in mind back then, what with being just freshly merged with Etrigan, but still, the point stands. I swung the ax and bathed in their blood."

Good Gods.

"That's not all, oh no. I've abandoned my brothers at arms along with my King. I've failed my country and my fellow countrymen. I've led countless good souls straight into the Pits and butchered at least ten times the amount afterwards. And then? I had the audacity to lose my memories and live in blissful ignorance as everyone I knew burned in Hell for the crime of knowing me."

Scathingly, he spat out, "So yes, Champion. I'm not just different, I'm worse than anyone you could possibly imagine. The Morningstar himself has reserved a nice spot in the deepest bowels of Hell, just for me."

Silence between them grew.

The man sighed once more and looked at the skyline. "I apologize, Captain. My mind has been, distracted as of late. To use you as a means to vent, I'm just adding more onto you, aren't I."

Billy was still shaken. Captain Marvel shook his head. "It's alright, I did promise to listen." But Gods, was he unprepared for this talk. Not even a lifetime would have been enough to prepare for all that.

"When you first appeared in Fawcett, there was talk. That The Wizard somehow made a mistake in picking his champion after hundreds of years of nothing. You were, simply put, childish. Too optimistic, too naive. But after watching you work and occasionally standing next to you, you're just someone who's trying his best at doing the right thing." He chuckled and then he grew quiet once more. "I'm certain you're having a rather difficult time coming up with the right responses for my ramblings. But I assure you, the right thing at this very moment? Would be to jus-"

"Ignore everything you said? Let you keep wallowing in your misery? Or is it to just leave and pretend this conversation never happened?"

Jason blinked owlishly at him. "Well, urm, yes. That was. Hm."

"If you don't mind me asking, why all this? Why now, and after everything, why just tell me to walk away?"

"Well, no offense Champion, but you weren't exactly my first choice for all this; wrong place wrong time and all that, making you the first person I encounter after everything and forcing you to take the brunt of my nonsense head on. I suppose I want to change a bit, after receiving many complaints. Start talking a little more, opening up, asking for the help I apparently desperately need. More straightforwardly as well. But I suppose I'm still mucking everything up, aren't I."

"The want to change, is it because of Billy?"

"Yes, I, mm, why do you know his name?"

"Just answer me, please."

"Well, he pointed out that my way of doing things was making him awfully uncomfortable. In hindsight, I can see how many of the things I said would have been hurtful, but that's hindsight. What I've said had already reached his ears and caused the damage. And who knows how many others I've caused such discomfort to?"

"So you're done feeling sorry for yourself?"

"I, yes, you can put it that way. He called me "uppity". Can you believe that? Usually people call me that after I've known them for years, and I've only met this boy for," he trailed off.

"One day?"

The man sighed. "Yes, and that's quite generous, considering how you rushed off not too long ago. And this morning. I knew I recognized those eyes from somewhere. Damn it to Hell, I am getting rusty."

"You're doing it again."

"I know, and I'm dreadfully sorry for it, Billy. It's an old habit to glean information out of others, difficult to shake off, but I'm trying and I'm going to keep trying. And besides, you were the one that was leading me on the nose tonight, the entire time, too."

Billy smiled a genuine smile. "Finally knows how it feels, huh."

"It did make me feel something, but I'm not sure if it was you or if it was just Etrigan prodding around on the inside."

"That's disgusting."

"Tell me about it."

They gazed out into the night.

"Jason."

"Yes?"

"I really wouldn't mind this. Mind being with you, that is. At least until this is all over."

"Were you not listeni, no. What I meant is, why would you choose to be with me? Of all the people you bloody know, you choose me?"

"I kinda promised Mr. Matthews to take care of you."

"Ugh, that busybodied fool. You shouldn't make any deals with that slime of a man."

"He thought we were close," Billy fiddled with his cape absentmindedly. "I thought you were weird as heck, but I had a feeling that you were trying. And that's much more than what most people bothered to do with me. I think you're a really good person who just needs someone with a big brush to scrub off all the nasty stuff you've gathered over the years."

"And you wish to bear that burden? I'm not the easiest of customers, if you haven't noticed."

"Might as well give it a shot while we're at it. It isn't like me to give up on someone, especially if that someone is making an attempt to try and change. As long as you don't go all weird on me and treat me like I'm some easily-fooled kid with too much information on his hands, I think we can work together."

Jason stared at the World's Mightiest Mortal. Not for long though, the man snapped his gaze away, stood, and offered a hand. "Yes. That would be for the best. Now how about we get off this drab tower and head back, together? I'm not interested in taking Batman's entire gig, perching on high places."

Billy's hearty laugh rang clearly in the air as he took the offered hand and stood next to his friend. "Oh yeah, definitely. I bet he's the one who decided on this place?"

"Correct, the dramatic little brat. Not everyone has a well-insulated Batsuit just laying around; it's bloody freezing out here at night."

Chapter Text

"So how'd you guys meet? You and Batman, I mean." De-powered and sinking into the chair that he's been growing accustomed to, Billy held onto his hot cocoa, warming his fingers up. They were taking turns asking each other questions. Get to know each other a little better.

Jason stirred his own mug of coffee before taking a sip. "Knew his parents. Not entirely superstitious and interested in the occult, but most of the Gotham elites would consult with me before starting any projects. I just go there, wave my hands around a bit for show, and then they pay me for my services. Batman's parents were frequent patrons."

The thought of a baby Batman crossed Billy's mind and he snorted into his mug in a poor attempt to hide his laughter.

"Alright then, my turn. What are the best tourist spots in Fawcett?"

Billy furrowed his brows for a second. "Hmm, I think I'm legally obligated to say WHIZ Radio."

"Legally obligated to?" Jason parroted in amusement.

"Yeah. Mr. Morris, my boss, treats me well, but something tells me he's got the superpower to bend child labor laws to his will. Lost count of how many times he's given me a bonus under the table to help me out of a rough patch. Recently, he also hired a tutor for me and I got lessons during the breaks. You'd like him. Kinda like Mr. Matthews, except balder and older and a little on the chunky side."

The man rolled his eyes. "Please. One Harry is enough for me, but thank you for the kind offer."

Billy giggled. "Okay, my turn! How old are you?"

"Lost count, as dates were hardly relevant in the past. In actuality, it was after listening to tall tales in local taverns at around the 13th century, that I learned of how Camelot and all that took place in the 6th century. A quick calculation, and there we go, I'm roughly fifteen hundred years old."

"Holy moly."

"Quite so. Now if you don't mind, I wish to ask a personal question."

Nod. He heard so much about the older man already, when he was spilling his heart up at the clock tower. Billy hadn't experienced nearly as much pain, so if he was brave enough to tell Captain Marvel all that, Billy could be too.

"Why did The Wizard choose you? Don't take that as a personal attack; I just wish to know."

The million dollar question. Why did The Wizard choose him? Billy had gone over that question many times in his own head over the years, but never came up with a good answer or one that made sense, and that was what he decided to go with.

"I don't really know. I was running from some bullies and ended up on a really weird subway that took me all the way to the Rock of Eternity." He saw Jason open his mouth and close it almost immediately. "I walked in the cave, saw these huge statues, the Seven Deadly Enemies of Man, and then saw this really, really old man sitting on top of a throne at the very back."

The boy waved his hands in the air for dramatic effect, lightly though, to prevent his precious beverage from spilling all over the place. "The old man stood up and said, "Billy Batson! You've been chosen for a great responsibility!" And I was like, what the heck? Then he continued on, talking about how Black Adam was a huge disappointment and one of his greatest mistakes, and wanted me to bear the mantle. The next Champion of Magic and the protector of the Rock of Eternity."

"And you agreed?"

"Heck no." Jason choked on his coffee in surprise. "My parents taught me good and I saw plenty of kids on the streets getting sold lies and ending up kidnapped or addicted to drugs. This old man gave me the heebie jeebies."

"And you told that to The Wizard's face?"

"Wanted to, but the major creep-o vibes made it come out as a polite no, like, "Sorry, mister, you seem really nice, but I really need to get home now." And I was about to run for it before The Wizard whipped out his staff and told me to touch it."

"He what? What did you just say?" Holy moly, several octaves higher than his usual tone. Did he say something wrong?

"Yeah, his magic, wooden staff. All gnarly and curvy, too. It even gave off light and magic visions when he thumped it on the ground."

The man slumped into his couch and weakly gasped out, "Please, just say "wooden staff" the next time you tell this story to someone else."

Weird request, but nodding dumbly, Billy continued. "So all those magic effects were like, real pretty, so I touched it. Then he told me to say his name, you know, the one that'll burn down your house if I said it now, and bam! Got struck by lightning and I became Captain Marvel! The end!"

"Hold on right there, you said you were struck by lightning?"

"Yep. Same lightning that transforms me into the Captain and back to myself. Only the first one hurt, so no need to worry."

"C-could I, could you possibly take off your clothes, Billy? Just the hoodie would be fine and preferable."

Oh. No avoiding it, I guess. It was gonna be revealed sooner or later, and if he hides it now, he'd be going against the unspoken rules of this questioning game. Wordlessly, he slipped out of his oversized red hoodie and displayed his bare chest to Jason. Countless of pink lines that strongly resembled the roots of an ancient tree ran across his chest and circled around to his back. Peeking at his companion, he noted Jason's expression; he's learned it was almost impossible to read the man during their brief interactions beforehand, but it was pretty clear right now. Disgust.

"Sorry, they're really gross-looking, but they really don-"

"They aren't hideous at all, Billy. You have nothing to apologize for."

"But, but yo-"

"My displeasure is aimed towards The Wizard, not you. Never you. He practically forced it upon you! And you should be able to recall my opinion on the youth getting involved in magic! A-and this," he gestured at the scars. "This is completely unacceptable! I would neve-"

"It's really alright, Jason. Please. It's still my turn." Jason was silenced with his words. "It was really, really weird for me at the start. I mean, I didn't even know if I could turn back to, well, me. I just suddenly lost my childhood, was in a lot of pain, and a stupid amount of expectations was just suddenly tossed onto me. And The Wizard just up and died right after I became Captain Marvel. Not yet, I'm not done," he silenced told Jason before he could even start.

"But after facing Black Adam not too long after I got my powers, I realized that I could do something that I could have never done as Billy with them, that I could protect people. Superman has a ton of powers, and he uses them to protect people he doesn't even know, bringing smiles onto everyone's faces. For me, for someone like me who had nothing and can now make a difference, it felt really, really good. So yeah, maybe The Wizard tricked me. But I think it was worth it."

He popped his head through his hoodie's collar and squirmed it back on. Jason was silent.

"Well?"

"Well what?"

"Aren't you going to say that I'm not supposed to do that or that this isn't my responsibility?"

Placing his mug down, Jason stared directly into his eyes. "I was thinking on how to put my apology into words."

Huh?

"I was wrong about you. You aren't trying your best at doing the right thing. You're giving it your all in making the world better, doing what you believe to be the right thing, sacrificing your own well being in the process. Hell, I'm one to talk, seeing as to how I'm sacrificing myself in keeping Etrigan restrained, but there's still a key difference."

He tapped Billy's chest lightly. "You're still a child. You deserve the happiness that all children are entitled to, that you so desperately provide others with."

"So what is your point?" Gods, trying to sound tough is impossible right now. He could feel his face burning up and nose starting to clog.

"I'm not going to stop your noble crusade. But please, place a little faith in the adults every so once in a while. I know we've hurt you many a times before, but you've given me another chance and came back to assist me, sat down and listened to me as well as deciding to put up with my nonsense. Let me help you as well. Let me return the favor and spoil you rotten."

And the tears rolled down his cheeks.

It took a long time and many boxes of tissues before the boy calmed down and was now chomping down on some crackers. Head tucked under Jason's arm, he muttered, "Whose turn was it again?"

"Yours, if I'm not mistaken. You can make it a personal one if you wish."

Crunch, crunch. Swallow. "Does it hurt?"

"Pardon?"

Billy's puffy eyes look up at Jason. "Does it hurt when you, you transform? It doesn't for me, but Mr. Etrigan was kinda, well, in pain back at the harbor."

Jason sighed and ran his free hand through the white streak in his hair. "It does. Tremendously so. When we were bound together, the only way to describe it is to say Etrigan's original body was completely incorporated into that of mine. The spell triggers something inside of me and starts to, well, reshape my entire being into that of his. The worst part is always the shift in anatomy. I do not wish to know what the hellbeast's innards are like; all I know is that I get to feel them growing inside."

May the Gods help this man.

The man hummed. "One of the benefits to a long chant is that you can mentally prepare yourself for the unavoidable outcome even during the process. It's impossible to ever get used to it, that feeling of forcefully losing control of your body, that brief moment when you can't remember who the hell you are, and then having a front row seat to whatever atrocities Etrigan is in the mood to commit that day. I've always seen it as rightful penance, for every last sin that I carry."

"Do you, uh, do you feel? Like feel through Mr. Etrigan?"

"Once I get my bearings, regrettably, yes. After the initial vertigo and dysphoria dissipate, we get to feel through each other, and at times, somewhat influence one another's actions from the inside, much to each other's annoyance."

"You can do that?"

"Yes, but it's not as major as I made it to be. A little twitch here, a little yawn there, and subtle changes of the face are mostly what we're capable of. Any more and it strains the mind. I truly tried to help you at Gotham Harbor, but Etrigan's willpower was uncontested. Able to slow and perhaps steer him slightly off the path, but never capable of truly stopping him. That's why it usually takes assistance from the outside to force him to say the words. And that's the lot I drew."

Billy looked down at the last cookie on the plate. "Holy moly, remind me to never say that spell ever again."

"It's the thought that counts. While he won't admit it, I'm sure he appreciates your mercy as well. Now then, my turn."

The boy squirmed and leaned against Jason's chest, waiting with bated breath.

"Now, I won't ask why you are so proficient in Greek, assuming it's because of the Wisdom of Solomon and your general ties to the Greek pantheon, but what does "sfeteristís" mean to you?"

Yep, the inevitable has finally arrived. "I'm guessing Black Adam, one of the earliest guys who was called the Champion of Magic."

"Hm. Teth-Adam. Current and past emperor of Kahndaq."

"Yeah, that guy. Ever since he woke up, he's made it clear that I "stole" the title of Champion from him. But if you ask me, he doesn't really deserve the title when he's done so many awful things. I thought that he was getting over it all the way over at Kahndaq, but if he's behind all this, then I guess I'm wrong."

"Hence, usurper."

"Yeah."

Taking advantage of the momentary silence, Billy picked up the last cookie and popped it into his mouth.

"Mm, you ate them all already?"

"Yep, they tasted pretty good."

A warm smile. "I would assume so, considering how you're looking for crumbs." Busted.

"It's my turn again, huh."

"Yes."

"So. Can you teach me some spells?"

"Gladly, considering how your temporary stay here is guaranteed now. We can sort out a schedule, allowing you plenty of time to go back to Fawcett for your heroics."

Score! "But that won't be all." Huh? "Your reading capabilities are far below the average twelve-year-old. And don't forget, you haven't had a proper education in years. You may be able to read as Captain Marvel through the assistance of magic, but not as Billy Batson. So don't even think about weaseling your way out of this, young man."

Billy groaned and sank into the couch.

Chapter Text

After redressing the boy's knee and tucking him in bed, Jason made his way to his study, gait and mood both much lighter than ever before.

"Hmph."

"Pouting, are we?"

"I'm not weak."

The man whistled a tune that has been lost to time.

"I hope you're happy. Tossing all your burdens onto the boy."

"You're just annoyed because I neglected you all night. And told the boy almost everything. Used up all the cards you had, the ones that could make him turn on me or despise me."

"Hmph."

"And that I ended up not being a heartless monster like you are; I was just simply confused." He sat down on his chair, ballpen in his left hand, a blank piece of parchment in his right. "Well, now that I've learned I've still got the capacity to care, my conscience is clear. Can't say the same about you, though."

"You're pathetic."

"Admit it, Etrigan. You like the lad as well, don't you. You did say it yourself, after all, and don't you dare say that you don't recall. "I like that kid." Perfect memory, no?" It felt good to be the one doing the mocking for once.

"Shut up. Stop crowing like a fool and get to work already."

Dropping his pen on the desk, he looked at his nails and feigned disinterest.

"I can bloody read your thoughts."

"My, I do believe I forgot to groom my nails. Getting awfully long." There was simply no need to rush anymore.

"Damn you to Hell, Blood."

"My sweet little cherub, you forget that's where I'll end up no matter what, our souls being stitched togeth-"

Etrigan let out a guttural yowl and rammed his mental body against the edges of their shared mind, causing Jason's head to jerk unnaturally forward. "E-Etrigan? Don't you da-" Tongue went numb, and then he felt it moving around in his mouth, going over all of his teeth one by one before spilling out. Hands instinctively reached upwards to try to stop the foreign sensation, but once again, Etrigan was one step ahead and wrapped his arms around himself inside. Arms have gone numb. Mouth completely out of his control.

Ah. Maybe I shouldn't have done that. Please wait, let the boy rest.

"Too late." Etrigan hissed out vehemently with his mouth, his voice. "Now, gone, gone, the form of man, and rise, the demon, "

His blood boiled underneath the skin as he began to twist and turn from the pain, mouth open but his throat was constricted, scream trapped in his lungs. Bones and organs rearranging against his will; his heart pounding, pumping the fires of Hell into his mortal muscles. Regaining brief control over his hands, he reached out blindly as though someone would be there to take it, before he watched his hand contort and expand into a frightfully familiar yellow claw.

Mind blanking from the excruciating process, he felt something reaching into his very being, wrapping around him, wrenching his control away. A name clawed itself out of his throat and coiled on his tongue, vile taste pooling, and he spat it out with vitriol, finishing the rhyme, as he always had.

" Etrigan! "

 And it all went black.

Waking up to the smell of sulfur was never a good sign. Nor was seeing a pair of glowing red eyes in the dark. Nor was one of his arms being yanked out from the covers, bringing his entire body along with it. Yelping in surprise, Billy tried to pry the massive claws off of his wrist, but was far from success. Dangling in the air, the boy squinted at the demon and could barely see an outline; much of his body was shrouded in darkness. Before having an opportunity to say or ask anything, he was suddenly dragged away and towards the door.

"H-hey! What the heck do you think you're doing! Let me go! Jason, I know you're in there, please tell Mr. Etrigan to stop!" No answer. In fact, the demon had been uncharacteristically quiet throughout this entire awful situation. He continued to twist and turn, and then, the lights all turned on. The yellow hand wrapped around his wrist loosened completely, and Billy plopped roughly onto the floor. "What the heck's the big deal?"

Etrigan sat down across from him, cross-legged, arms crossed over his muscular chest. For a moment, all Billy could think of was that he was looking at Jason's body, that he could possibly pick out some of the man's features, but it was to no avail. It was all Etrigan right now.

"We need to talk."

"Uh, can't this wait, you know, until the next morning or something?"

"No. Ten minutes and then I'll walk.

Uh. Sure. This isn't weird at all. Not one bit.

"That fool Blood isn't the brightest, and I doubt you haven't noticed in the slightest.

Noticed? Noticed what?

"He thinks we can play a passive role, but he's not looking, not in its whole."

"Mr. Etrigan, I don-" The demon's right hand shot out and instantly covered his mouth.

"Listen," he growled, "surely you've heard. The man's been spouting rhyming words."

Holy moly. He was talking abou- "The car," he mumbled through the hand which was promptly removed.

Etrigan nodded firmly. "What about your sense of familiarity? Have you not noticed the similarity?"

"You mean the deja vu vibes I've been getting when Jason talks to me?" Another nod.

"After much thought, and facts compounded, the cause is those lines, my accusation well-grounded."

"Hold up, you're saying that the lines are making Jason extra weird?"

That earned him a sharp rap on the head. "Pay attention, little Champion of Magic. What is going on is far more tragic. I fear that the worst may be in store, an outcome that we would all abhor."

"What? What's going to happen if the ley lines keep going?"

The demon held both hands in front, palms facing each other, and slammed his hands together. "Permanent assimilation that desperately needs cessation."

"H-huh?"

"Our minds will converge and we will permanently merge."

He shot up to his feet, ignoring the discomfort, and screamed, "Holy moly, you're going t-to become? What? How? Why? And please, please, stop rhyming. It's, I don't think I can handle that right now. Gods."

Etrigan huffed and rolled his eyes. "Fine. Then for your many questions, my bastard of a brother, Merlin, stuck both our souls and our bodies together. Impossible to not bleed into each over the centuries. And that nebulous zone during transformation where it's simultaneously both my brain and that of his also allows us a brief moment of full access to each other's memories without the need for effort nor spells. But, it's all been as gradual and natural as it can be, along with the likes of "understanding" in Blood's terms, and making concessions or deals."

Crossing his arms once more, he continued, "Ever since the first ley line opened, I've noticed I've developed his bloody diction and it comes through even when I'm rhyming. As for Blood, he's been getting, well, easy to prey upon. Many of his long-buried insecurities about becoming more like me have been coming up to the surface. At first it was all good fun, agitating and egging him on, taking delight in seeing him toss all of his "holier-than-thou" morality out." 

"But now you're getting nervous because of the assimilation thingy."

"Precisely. No idea about exactly why all this is happening, but I'd prefer it to be stopped. I rather like being myself, thank you very much. Barely able to put up with the stench of humanity, and the fates decree that my blood be permanently tainted? My soul? My mind?" He bared his fangs, and the stench of sulfur spilled into the room as he spat out, "It took an entire year before the madness we experienced when first merged together abated. While we did go on a rampage the entire time, what was the point if I wasn't in the right mind to enjoy it? What was the point of killing Blood's family when we couldn't even remember who we were? For me to savor? For him to despair?"

"So Champion, I implore you. While true, we cannot do much until our cunning quarry shows their hand, if you truly wish to assist Blood, then I urge you to see this case to the end as soon as possible. The sooner it all ends, the fewer lasting damage there is on our psyches. You get your Blood, I get myself. Are we clear?"

What could he do, shake his head? Taking the only choice that he could make, Billy nodded.

"Good. Very good. Don't disappoint me, I'll be watching from the inside."

"A-are you going to tell him?"

"I will. Nothing will get done if he refuses to cooperate. The second something comes up, I'll inform Blood of it, and I expect the same from you."

"Now, get some rest," with a single swift motion, he latched his right hand onto the boy's tiny waist. Easily lifting Billy in the air, who let out a weak cry of protest, Etrigan set him back down on his bed. "That poultice he made works best when the recipient is asleep."

"But you were the one who woke me in the fir–"

"Shush," he turned to leave.

Just as he was about to turn off the lights, Billy called out once more, "Mr. Etrigan, could you please tuck me in? I can't really tuck myself in, you know. And can I call you Mr. Etrigan? Or do you prefer just Etrigan? I'm fine with both."

Etrigan let out a heavy sigh, and lurched back. With practiced ease, the demon tucked the boy in. Making his way back to the doorway, he waved and grunted out, "Please, just call me Etrigan. Now, sleep, you've got a big day ahead, young man." The door clicked shut.

How the heck is he gonna sleep with all that?

Groggily, Jason came to, eyes still adjusting to the darkness in their mindspace and the redness of the world seen through Etrigan's eyes.

"He finally awakes," the demon announced to no one but themselves.

The demon was scrawling messily in his own demonic script on a piece of parchment, one that Jason had grown accustomed to and could read without any issues thanks to their dual nature. Intricate summoning circles also littered the margins of the paper, many of which he couldn't recognize with his currently addled mind.

As he was reading through the demon's writing, fragments of the conversation that was held without his knowledge began to trickle through to his own mind with Etrigan's urging. Jason reeled in terror.

"Complete and total assimilation? Th-that can't be. That's far too soon. Have I really been rhy, no, the lines?"

"Yet to understand what the purpose of those lines are, nor the singular hotspot we reached by car. I'm willing to call a temporary truce, until we kill the fiend on the loose. Now tell me, Jason of the Blood, will you help, or be a dud?"

"I-I'll help. I'll do what I can."

"Good," he scribbled another patterned circle before resuming his general writing. "Now look through my drawings on the sidelines and see if any match with the general position of the ley lines. I'm going solely off my memories, of bastards that we've slighted throughout the centuries. Just because we're on the defensive, doesn't mean we can't be pensive."

"I suppose you are right. Was this what you were trying to tell me all night?"

A huff. "That, along with how I wanted a piece of the fun as well. No fair with just you explaining; I also have my unbiased part to tell."

"Unbiased my arse. But then it's true, no? You've grown fond of the boy."

"Imagine what you will, I know your thoughts won't still."

"Well, that'll work out perfectly. I was hoping that you could assist in readying the boy for combat."

"Hn?"

Jason leaned into the darkness. "You remember how the Captain fights, no? Using brute force most of the time and only the strong spells. No nuance at all. We can teach him how to think with his head."

"An intriguing proposition. One that could hasten our condition."

"I acknowledge that there are risks to this plan, but if what you've gathered is correct, the boy's identity as the Champion may increase the odds of success tremendously. What say you, Etrigan?"

"Fine. We'll go with that, but don't expect me to go easy. The thought of it makes me utterly queasy."

After Etrigan left his room, Billy Batson found himself with millions of thoughts racing through his mind. Tossing and turning in his bed and undoing the demon's tucking, he just couldn't stop thinking about what Etrigan had told him in the middle of the night. If they don't get to the bottom of this, they'll merge! And what's worse, it'll take almost a year for them to settle down, and that's only if they'll actually separate back to two in the first place! Everyone in the League knew that Etrigan's one of the hardest magical hitters around, and if it weren't for Jason and the demon's own habit of accidentally getting too overconfident and what Mr. Constantine once referred to as, "jobbing like a git", he would practically be unstoppable! So if both of their minds go out of control and become a violent monster, then! Billy buried his face into his pillow as if to avoid the truth.

Gods, and right after he's started liking the company of the man. If everything goes wrong, he's going to have to fight him and maybe even, even.

He sniffled and soon, was lulled into a fretful sleep.

Chapter Text

To say that breakfast was awkward would be underselling it. Jason flashed an apologetic smile at the boy as he placed a small plate of scrambled eggs on top of toast in front of him. The charred smell was unmistakable, so Billy lifted the eggs slightly off the toast with his fork only to find it extra brown on the top side.

"I'm very sorry."

"Nah, don't be. Was just wondering where the burnt smell was coming from." Taking a forkful of egg, he began to chew; at first at a normal pace, but he slowly came to a halt as his taste buds figured out something was wrong.

"Jason? Why're the eggs sweet?"

A small crash happened at the sink as the older man dropped the pan he was rinsing. "Damn it, grabbed sugar instead of salt. Damn it to Hell."

It really wasn't all that bad. Sugary eggs on top of slightly crispy toast was a surprisingly alright combination. And they both knew that wasn't the problem.

Mindless poking the scrambled eggs with his fork, Billy asked, "So, you wanna talk about it?"

With his back still facing Billy, Jason hung his head forward in defeat. "I'd like that very much, but just a moment longer. I don't believe I will mess up bottled juice and a cup of tea."

Billy nodded despite knowing the older man couldn't see him and went back to attacking his strange-tasting meal. Soon enough, Jason approached the table with two cups and placed the one with orange juice in front of the boy, and he sat down in his chair across the table.

"So."

"Yes."

Gods, this is so awkward. "So Etrigan told you? About that whole, you know. You and Etrigan doing the, uh."

"Merging."

"Yeah. That."

"He did."

They both took a long sip from their respective cups. Billy looked up from his reflection.

"You're not afraid of it? You know, becoming him?"

The man traced his finger over the rim of the mug. "Afraid? No, not really. Came to the realization ages ago that it was inevitable. But in denial as to how fast it has progressed and may continue at such a pace if this situation isn't solved? Absolutely. Besides, it isn't exactly becoming Etrigan, more like, mixing us two together. Parts of Jason will still be there. Same for Etrigan."

"Just, different."

"Correct. Very different."

Billy slumped down, letting his cheek rest on the tabletop. His arms hung loosely at the side, breakfast only a third remaining and not planned on being finished.

"Come now, my boy. Chin up. At least this is only affecting me, and not you."

"What do you mean by that?" Piqued, Billy adjusted his head's position so that it was his chin resting on the table.

"Both you and I are the only ones that can sense the happening, and it has been affecting me gradually. You aren't feeling any different, so I would assume that whoever is going around causing all this is targeting me for whatever reason, not you. You're just an innocent bystander that was dragged into all this nonsense and is kind enough to remain to help me."

"But the Greek?"

"Surely just a quirk they have. A mere coincidence that your spells are mostly in Greek as well, judging by our limited interactions when dealing with League business; it is an ancient culture rich with magic, after all. Take Etrigan and I for example; we're drawn to cast our spells in either Latin or Welsh, both of which come to us most naturally."

"Welsh?"

"Eh, essentially what the British spoke before speaking English."

"What? British people didn't say stuff in English?" What?

"That's an entirely different story that needs a long time to explain, which you don't entirely have right now. Finish your juice, it's about time you got ready."

Peering at the clock, Billy sat up straight and reached for his cup. "Holy moly! I haven't turned in any of my Justice League reports!"

"They require you to turn in reports? I assumed that you left early for Fawcett, but to think that it was for the League."

He chugged the entire contents of the cup down. Artificial flavoring was a bit strong there. "Yeah. Batman's fussy like that. Shoot, I gotta go. We'll talk later after I come back from my daily Fawcett patrol afterwards," he turned to get off his chair before Jason gripped firmly onto his right wrist. Deja v-

"Now, hold on a second. Palm up, please."

Wordlessly, Billy did as he was told. Eyes growing wide almost to the size of his plate, he watched as Jason's left index finger shone and began to draw a complex circle in the middle of his right palm.

"You see, I was never meant to be a magic user. My innate magical aptitude appallingly low and all that, which is why I spent a long time studying written magic. As long as you write or draw it correctly, it'll be a cinch."

"But everyone says you're an amazing sorcerer!"

"I've been alive for far too long. Far too many grimoires lost to time are all up here," he tapped his forehead with his free hand, "and for us magic users, knowledge is everything. And Etrigan's my magic core in a sense. His continued existence as a part of me is paramount in my magic."

Jason gently wrote two words in the center of the circle, but to Billy, they didn't look right. It was written with the English alphabet, but his gut told him that there were far too many repeating letters. 

"Llucheden and denu. Thunderbolt and attract. Welsh. I've made you into a living lightning rod."

The circle flashed once and sank into his skin without any feeling of discomfort. That is so cool, but, "I technically was one already? I don't really see the point in this."

Smiling knowingly, Jason stood up and opened the window. "Observe. Stretch your arm out towards the window from there and say your word."

Billy took a deep breath, "Alright, since you don't mind your house burning down. Shazam!" Fully expecting the lighting to burst through the ceiling and hit him from above, Billy let out a yelp of surprise when the lightning came in from the window and traveled straight into his right palm. Holy moly. Holy moly!

The smoke cleared, and Captain Marvel stood there, marveling at his right hand. Glancing around, especially down at his feet and the chair he was still sitting on, he noticed there weren't any burn marks nor the usual magic lightning singes anywhere. Holy moly, that's convenient as heck!

"If you want it to come down from the top like it used to, just hold your hand close to your chest or don’t even think about the magic circle in your hand. Satisfactory? Still believe it to be pointless? "

"No, sir, Mr. Jason Blood, Sorcerer Supreme, sir," he said with awe, earning a chuckle from the man.

"Now go be a hero. I'll be waiting."

"Thank you, so, so much, Jason!" And he shot out the window, headed straight to the Fawcett Zeta Tube. 

Gold boots pattering on the sleek ground of the Watchtower, Captain Marvel made his way to the Monitor Room with his half-written report in hand. He just had to procrastinate and not finish it yesterday, even after Flash had left for the cafeteria. What was he doing again? Oh yeah, watching monitors like he was supposed to. Ironic. Thankfully, if his memory was correct, the two people on shift today were Black Canary and Cyborg, the two members who, one, wouldn't tell him to leave for no reason, and two, won't be annoying as heck.

He knocked on the door before letting the sensor above detect him. The door slid open, and bingo, Black Canary and Cyborg were the ones on shift.

"Captain? What brings you here, today?"

"Wasn't it your shift yesterday?"

The Captain smiled sheepishly, "I kinda forgot to finish yesterday's report. Thankfully, not a lot happened in my city, so I should be done fast. Would still appreciate it if you guys let me stay here for the time being."

They exchanged glances and then Black Canary turned to face him, a warm smile on her lips already. "You won't be a bother at all, Captain."

"Yeah, we're cool with it," Cyborg added as he nudged a spare chair towards him.

Just as he was about to start on his work, Captain Marvel noticed that Cyborg was watching him intently rather than at the monitors. "Uh, something wrong, Cyborg?"

"Not really, just wondering, how come you never call us by our, you know, names?" He pointed a finger at himself and then at Black Canary, "It's always hero names with you, but besides Batman, most of us don't really keep it a secret up here where we're away from the civilians."

Tapping the pen he was holding on his lip lightly, the Captain stared at his paper. Gee, he really does do that, huh. But any other way would be kinda, "Disrespectful," he said out loud.

Black Canary turned her attention towards him as well at that. Cyborg's singular brow rose a couple centimeters. "Wait, what do you mean by that, Cap?"

Captain Marvel leaned on his chair and threw his hands wide open, "I mean, doing that would be extremely disrespectful on my part. I have only been part of the League for barely a year; most of you are my seniors. And there's also the fact that I'm still very inexperienced in all this. Calling you by your real names just seems very unprofessional on my part, even if we're not on the clock."

Something touched one of his shoulders gently, Black Canary's hand. "Captain, we appreciate your consideration, but we don't really mind at all. Just to let you know, I've lost count of how many times my Ollie has complained to me about how the Big Red Cheese needs to relax sometimes."

Gosh, Green Arrow talks about him? To his wife? Gosh. And really, Big Red Cheese?

"Yeah man, we don't really mind. We're all buddies up here," Cyborg chipped in.

That makes him feel so much worse, hearing how everyone saw him as a friend. A friend who still hasn't revealed his name. Except for Jason, someone that was not in the League and the amount of times they talked with each other before this entire situation could be counted on one hand.

Captain Marvel swallowed thickly and looked at both his colleagues. Be honest. Straightforward. No dancing around the questions. He requested that much out of Jason; he'd be a hypocrite if he doesn't follow them either. "There's, it's, ah, there's also the fact that I haven't told anyone my real name. I don't think it's quite fair if I get to call others by their names when they can't do the same."

Cyborg let out a loud bark of laughter at that. "Listen to yourself, Cap! Has that ever stopped Bats from yelling "Hal Jordan" from across the Hall of Justice whenever he makes a raunchy construct with his power ring?"

That got a snort out of the Captain and a soft giggle from Black Canary. "He's right, Captain. Nobody knows who Batman really is, and yet he knows everything about every last one of us, except for you, of course."

"Yeah! If anything, that makes you our hero! Evading the Bat like that is practically impossible, so it's no wonder he's always glaring at you and trying to suss out who you are."

He couldn't stop the faint blush creeping onto his cheeks from the compliment, but he could look down and fiddle with his thumbs. Why's everyone gotta be so nice and friendly.

"Do you want to try calling us by our names, Captain? A little warm up before you talk with your closer friends." Gods, they're treating me like a kid. Was he really behaving like one to warrant this kind of treatment?

"Yeah. I'm pretty sure Wally or Oliver would just laugh at you or scream at the top of their lungs if you start with them. You know our names, right?"

"Y-yeah. I know." Courage of Achilles, don't fail me now. He clapped his cheeks and took a deep breath. "Dina-"

A sudden surge of magic. Coming from the direction of Gotham. Oh Gods, right now?

He stood up, shocking the other two occupants of the room.

"Cap?"

"Captain, I'm sorry if we made you feel uncomfortable. We shouldn't have ru-"

"No, no, it's not that. I'm the one who should be apologizing. There's something I need to deal with. I gotta go. Like, right now. I'd be glad to try with you two some other time, but I really need to get going."

Sharing a concerned look, Cyborg just nodded. Black Canary stood up next to him and, "Do you need help? We can tell Batman and send reinfor-"

"No!" Ah, came out way too forcefully, but there's no time. "I mean, no need. I can deal with it."

After rushing out of the room, leaving only the sound of thunder cracking in the wake of the Speed of Mercury, he soon found himself hanging over the sky above Gotham. Captain Marvel looked in all directions before honing in on one powerful magical signature coming from the center of the city. Bingo. Exactly the same as the one near the park. Wait. Why's it near the park, too? No, he shook his head. No more distractions. No more questions. Only answers, and if he could make it in time, that's what he'll get!

A long screech greeted Captain Marvel as he skidded into a stop in Gotham Central Park. He arrived in record time, now at high alert and ready to strike whatever was causing the magical disturbance. Too long. Both he and Jason were finally going to get closure. Billy's not going to mess up. Jason Blood cannot afford it.

The feeling was growing stronger as he walked towards his destination at a brisk pace, ignoring all the Gothamites that were whispering, unused to seeing another hero in their city. Billy guesses he could've landed on the exact spot, but what if he makes it worse? The living conduit to magic itself landing on a magical hotspot did not sound very appealing to the Wisdom of Solomon nor the Common Sense of Billy Batson.

There! About 50 meters ahead of where he was standing, right on top of where the magic was spilling out, there was a cloaked figure with their enveloped hands raised into the air. What the heck. Why isn't anyone doing anything to the clearly suspicious individual? No matter, his target is in sight! He took a deep breath, and lunged at full speed, fists crackling with the Power of Zeus.

Just a second before he came into arms' length with the figure, it turned around, revealing a face cloaked in darkness and fierce, golden eyes. Their lips curled, showing off its pearly white fangs, and sneered. A spittle of flame came out of its mouth as it ground out, vitriol lacing every syllable.

"Eímai o nómimos kyvernítis!"

Without warning, the creature burst into golden flames right before Captain Marvel's fist could come into contact.

Once the flames died down, only Captain Marvel remained, jerking to a stop.

He failed.

Chapter Text

The next couple moments were a complete blur. Without so much of a thought going through his head, Captain Marvel took off once more, but not back to the Watchtower. His destination was back to Jason's manor. Away from his failure. To find someone that was far more capable than he could ever hope to be. Billy Batson's heart couldn't handle it anymore. He was right there! He could've gotten the villain and ended it all right there, but he didn't!

A small cry of "Shazam!" and he ran to the door. Frantically, Billy began to press the doorbell, hoping that Jason Blood would be there. Would be able to do something. Would be able to change what had happened somehow, some way. Would be able to patch up his mistake. There was no answer. He gripped the doorknob, faintly aware of all the enchantments and wards that have been placed on the premises, but he didn't care at that moment. All he wanted to do was to see Jas-

The door clicked open. What? Billy's mind came to a halt. Where were the wards? Why's, why's the door, why wasn't it locked? He took an experimental step in, then another, and another following that one, until he was just standing in the middle of the hall. One more, with his right leg planting down a little too hard, and he stumbled onto the ground, into a small heap. Gods, he was such a failure. He can't even walk right. He can't do anything. And Jason's gonna become one with Etrigan, all because of him.

Hot tears rolled down his cheeks as he sobbed into the carpet. Gods. Why the heck was he crying? Why was he crying for a man he barely knew two days ago? It was all too much for him to handle right now. Why did the Gods pick him back then? Why him? Why not someone more capable than an eight-year-old orphan on the streets of Fawcett?

A soft click coming from behind resounded in his ears, and before he could turn around to see what made it, he was lifted up by someone holding onto his nape.

"Um I-"

"Hush, little one. There is really no need for despair. Etrigan's back, only left for a spell, now back in his lair. Now, I can't promise much, not really built for solace, so Etrigan's solution is far from flawless." They were moving, but where to, Billy didn't care. All he wanted to do was to curl up and hide.

Next thing he knew, Etrigan had flung him, and crashed into the wall with a thud. More tears spilled out from the pain as he cowered in fear of the demon standing in front of him.

"Champion, stand up and fight; there's no backing away. Shout your word, show me your might, for you are far from prey."

He sniffled. Head still throbbing from the harsh crash against the wall, he shouted his word.

"Shazam!"

Lightning crashed through the skylight and coursed through his body, magically transforming into the brave hero of Fawcett, Captain Marvel. Stamina of Atlas pumping through his veins and Speed of Mercury running through his legs, the Captain lunged straight towards the demon.

Once again, right before he reached the beast, Etrigan stepped to one side and threw a powerful punch at the back of his head, sending stars through the Captain's vision. Through his blurry sight, he saw the demon quickly hop backwards once, and the distance between the two expanded once more. Gritting his teeth at the situation, Captain Marvel shakily got back on his feet. The demon was grinning at him, sneering at him, showing off his fangs like that cloaked figure. A surge of rage bubbled forth, and the Captain held both of his hands in front of him, palms facing Etrigan.

He took a deep breath and called forth a spell, one of his favorites, one that he had always relied upon when he couldn't risk calling The Wizard's name.

" Vrontí !" Thunder exploded out of his palms and lanced towards the demon. There was no escape from that; not even the demon could run faster than thunder itsel, wait, what are those glowing runes on the ground? The runes glowed brighter, and a deafening crack rang out as it collided with, with the air? Captain Marvel's eyes went wide with shock. The air was shimmering, visibly wobbling; a barrier! Then the demon? He was no longer there!

"Impressive thunderbolt, but above, you blithering dolt! Neck snapping upwards just in time to catch Etrigan landing heavily on top of his shoulders, and then he was launched backwards once more as the demon backflipped off of him.

Captain Marvel was shaking, rage clouding his thoughts. He couldn't do anything against his opponent, who was clearly just toying with him. Made even more evident as the demon was now licking the back of his palms as though he were grooming himself!

Then, the spell again! The demon is in a different position now, so no barrier will stop his magic now! Body still on the ground, he leaned forward, hands outstretched once more. Again! This time, it has to work! He can't fail! " Vron -"

" Augue !" Etrigan threw a massive ball of flame straight at him! Panicking, he rolled to a side, just barely managing to avoid the fireball.

" Gehenna imber ." Gods. You've got to be kidding me. The smuggest smile he had ever seen in his short life was plastered on Etrigan's face as he just sat there, cross-legged, on the ground. Thick, dark clouds began to form above their heads, air crackling with magic, a pregnant pause, and then literal hellfire rained down.

Channeling the Speed of Mercury, Captain Marvel swerved and weaved through the burning rain, but he couldn't avoid them all, cape and parts of his outfit catching on fire. Gods, it burns! He has to put it ou-

A sharp, nauseating crack rang out. It took a moment of swirling in the air before Billy realized Etrigan delivered a powerful uppercut and the pain set in. After another rough landing and through his hazy vision, he saw the demon wave a single digit in the air, causing the clouds to disperse. That's when the truth of this encounter dawned on him. He wasn't just facing the demon that looked to him for support and assistance. He wasn't just facing the demon that obliged with tucking him in bed. He was facing a literal demon prince of Hell that could kill him whenever he wanted.

Courage and adrenaline were still going strong, but only for Captain Marvel, not Billy, and it was showing. The Captain began moving backwards, arms pushing him inch by inch on the ground, eyes still locked on his opponent that was gradually approaching. Before he knew it, his back was against a wall once more. With Etrigan standing, no, looming over him. Gods, he was a disgrace. A failure.

The demon raised a hand and tightened it into a fist. Squeezing his eyes shut, welcoming the approaching pain, and, and, and! It never came. Carefully cracking open one eye, he saw the yellow hand in front of his vision, and flick! Bewildered, Captain Marvel held onto his nose and just stared at the demon.

"I, huh?"

"Well?"

"Well? I, I. I don't know?"

"Say the word. Skylight's already ruined; can't get any worse."

"Shazam!"

The boy rubbed his nose as the smoke cleared. A small sniffle, and then he felt his face being lifted up and gently twisted around. A sharp claw poked at the place his head collided with the wall; a sharp intake of breath involuntarily occurred when the pain shot through his temple.

"Not too serious. Blood has prepared a fresh change of clothes on your bed. You know where the bathroom is. Get cleaned up, I'll handle this mess. We'll meet once more in the study,"

He swished his cape dramatically and left, loudly stomping down the stairs. They were upstairs? He hadn't even noticed. But there was one thing he did notice. He was only thinking about the throbbing of his head now.

Upon entering Jason's study, he was surprised to see the owner of the room standing there, with medical supplies at the ready. A couple mystery jars, too.

"Oh, thank the Morningstar. Seems like that brute didn't bang you up too hard. Or perhaps it's thanks to the Stamina of Atlas. Regardless, we have to thank the lucky stars that you're fine." Wordlessly, he walked up to the man, and Jason immediately picked up a brown jar and tipped its contents right onto the already existing bump on the head. Chilly and minty. The older man sat on his chair and beckoned the boy to sit on his lap, which he happily obliged.

Unprompted, Jason began to massage the bump in a circular motion, working the medicine into his scalp. "Honestly, the absolute nerve of that bastard. Who the hell just decides to pummel a crying child?" His fussing continued as Billy just sat there in silence for several minutes.

After placing a strange-smelling white sheet on top of the bump, he grabbed a swath of bandages and began to wrap the boy's head. One loop, two loops, three, and snip. A small clip, and the wound was dressed. "There we go. Good as new. How's your knee? We haven't looked into it for quite a while, aside from reapplying medicine."

"It's fine," he mumbled.

"Hm. I've noticed that the limp is gone when you came in. It's healing rather nicely. We'll forgo the poultice for now and just observe. Natural healing is always prefer-"

"I'm sorry."

"Wh-what? No, no. I should be the one apologizing. You were feeling awful, and Etrigan came and made everything worse, did he not?"

"He kinda made me calm down a bit."

"I, hm. Alright then, if you say so. Then, would you like to rest? A little shut eye? Sleep does wonders for a wear-"

"I failed you."

"Excuse me?"

Eyes growing wet again, Billy sniffled. "I could've caught the person, but I didn't. I was so close, and the guy was right there! Right there! I could've stopped everything, but I didn't!"

"Billy, take a deep breath. No need to rush. Tell me everything from the beginning at a slow and steady pace. It'll make you feel better."

Another wet sniffle. "I was at the Watchtower, when I felt a sudden boom in magic. Like the one we found with Mr. Matthews. So I came back to Gotham with a Zeta Tube, and saw that the magic was coming from Gotham Park."

"Again?"

"Yeah, it was weird. Right next to the park again. So I went there, and I didn't want to land on the spot because it could've blown up because I'm too strong because I'm the Champion."

"Wise decision."

"Then I got to the spot and saw a weird person, in a cloak. They were in the middle of an incantation or something, so I thought I could get the jump on him. But right before I reached, they just turned around and laughed at me! Gods, I can't get those yellow eyes out of my mind!"

"Yellow eyes?"

"Yeah, completely yellow! No pupils or anything, just yellow and glowy. Then he said, "Eímai o nómimos kyvernítis" and there were flames and he disappeared."

"Flames?"

"Really hot ones."

"Hm. And he called himself," he trailed off, thinking about the translation.

"Nómimos kyvernítis. Rightful ruler."

"Ah. Which means he really is our culprit. In line with "usurper"."

"And then I came back here, and you weren't there, and Etrigan."

"And now."

"Yeah."

He looked up at the man, face creased, deep in thought. He didn't want to interrupt him, but he had to know.

"Where were you? I thought you were here, but the door was open and you weren't."

"Another ley line opened. Etrigan and I were looking into it."

Eyes almost bugging out, Billy tried to formulate a response but came out short.

"We were ready for it this time. Take a look." A wave, and the now familiar map of Gotham came floating in. There were several more markings, and now, an additional line running through the bottom of the city.

"Gods. It's a triangle," he breathed out. The lines formed a large triangle, encompassing most of the circles throughout Gotham with only a few scattered about right on top of the lines.

"To be honest, we had a feeling that something would happen today. I apologize for not telling you sooner, but it was just a feeling."

"What do you mean?"

"The first line emerged eight days ago," Jason explained as his finger traced across the upper-right line. "The second, four days." Finger moved across to the upper-left one. "Today marks the fourth day, hence, there was a possibility of something happening. To think that it did."

"When Etrigan arrived at the location, we arrived just in time to see words fading into the aether," he continued. "To our surprise, it was in a rather old-fashioned demonic script. "Before", was what it said."

"Before?"

Jason wrote the word in the air. Holy moly, they were glowing squigglies! A ghost of a smile appeared on the man's weary face as he confirmed, "Indeed. I assume the "squigglies" you saw down at the harbor looked like these?"

Billy nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah! Not exactly the same, but the squigglies definitely looked like these!"

With a wave, the words faded. "Hm. We can only assume that the other 26 circled locations also have such words written." Hm? 26?

"I thought there were only 16 circles? When did more show up?"

"Every time a ley line appeared, many of these locations materialized simultaneously. Having only one body, we always head towards the nearest one first, but today was the first time we managed to make it in time. We finished charting the others some time after."

Wow. He really is a professional.

"Now, we should get prepared. Three more days before the big event, after all."

"W-wait, what?"

Gently wrapping his arms around the boy, Jason smiled and explained away with great patience. "Look closely. See what is in the middle of the triangle?"

A familiar green blotch. With a different colored circle. "Holy moly, Gotham Central Park?"

"Precisely. And where were you close to, today?"

"The park!"

"Now, where exactly were you?"

Billy furrowed his brow. "Uh, I think, no. I'm sure I landed close to the manhole. Then I walked," he traced his finger down in the direction he assumed to be right, "all the way here? Now that I'm thinking real hard about it, I don't think I'm sure anymore."

Before he could protest, Jason picked up a marker from his desk and drew a circle over where his finger ended up.

"H-hey! I'm not sur-"

"I believe you, Billy, because of this." He drew another circle and linked the three circles surrounding the park.

"Holy moly." A small, upright triangle with the park in the center. Leaning back into Jason's chest, he looked at the map in its entirety. One large triangle made of ley lines, lots of circles, 28 to be more precise, littered across on the inside, and one little triangle at the center without any circles inside.

Jason snapped the cap back on the marker and set it aside. "A hypothesis, for certain, but I don't suppose it'll be too far from the truth. Clearly, the three-day intervals signify that it burns through a lot of the culprit's magical power that they would need the time to recharge, hence, three days from now. We'll set up camp in the park and ambush them, if that's fine by you."

Despite everything that was at stake, the boy was practically vibrating with excitement. "Holy moly. It's gonna be a stake-out!"

Chapter Text

Soaring through the skies, Captain Marvel was on his way back to Fawcett. It was nearing sunset. His first missed report ever since joining? Who cares, what's the worst that could happen, another lecture from Batman? It wasn't as important as helping Jason, nor as important as patrolling Fawcett. Besides, now that there's a plan forming, he's got to make sure his own responsibilities as Captain Marvel are well taken care of before attending to his Billy Batson business. Good thing he already talked with Mr. Morris about letting Billy take a couple days off. Now, for the easy part of Captain Marvel's duties. The Fawcett City Police Department.

Lowering himself to face a certain window with the drapes drawn, he rapped on the glass lightly in fear of breaking the delicate material. There were sounds of someone getting off a chair that hasn't been oiled in ages. Yep, he's there, alright.

The drapes were parted, revealing a stocky man with squinty eyes. "McGinnis!"

Lifting the window, the man flashed a cheery grin as if to match the one on the Captain's face. "Hey, if it ain't the Big Red Cheese himself. What brings ya here today, Cap?"

"A favor, if you will."

"A favor, eh? No problem. Who can say no to your handsome mug. I still owe ya plenty."

"Gosh, I haven't even told you what the favor is."

"Nothing I can't handle, that's for sure."

Leaning in, Captain Marvel whispered into the policeman's ear, "I'm going to be away from Fawcett for the next couple days."

Violently jerking back, McGinnis stumbled back into his office. "Say what! What the hell, Cap?" Rushing back, he hissed, "I wasn't expecting that! The hell have you gotten yourself into?"

Interesting choice of words. "It's complicated, but basically, I won't be able to come back here for the next three to four days."

"Geez, you're killing me here. No patrols? Nothing?" Captain Marvel shook his head. "Damn. Well, can't be helped, then. I'm sure it's important. Ya never missed even a single day of patrolling ever since you showed up here in Fawcett. We'd understand it even if ya said you're going for a break."

"Sorry for the sudden request, but this is really important to me." It wasn't at the beginning, but a certain someone made it so.

While the stress was still evident on his face, McGinnis threw out a strained smirk, "Hey, don't put yourself down, Cap. It's us coppers that have been taking it easy. You've been doing our job, so it's about time we showed our worth again. And sudden? Bah. Better than sitting on our asses and waiting for ya the next couple days without knowing. I'll pass it on to the other boys. You go deal with your problems."

"Thank you so much, Muscles."

"Yeah, yeah. Be careful, Cap."

"You too."

That went well. Now for the harder one. The one where he didn't have a whole lot of good will with. The one that he would have had a chance, but lost it the second he ditched his report back in the Monitor Room. Reaching onto his belt, he unclipped his Justice League communicator, and dialed a number.

"..."

"..." Come on, pick up, pick up. Gods, is this how the others felt when he didn't pick up?

"...Batman speaking." Yes! He picked up!

"Batman, sir. I need t-"

"Captain."

"Y-yes?"

"I heard from Cyborg and Black Canary. You said that there was a matter that you had to attend to?"

"Yes, sir."

"..."

"Sir?"

"Is it resolved?" Whoa, wasn't expecting that. Thought he wouldn't have believed, for some reason.

"About that, it's not exactly resolved as of yet."

A small grunt. What the heck does that mean?

"Does it have to do with Jason Blood?" Huh? How'd he, oh yeah. He was the one that set up the meeting at Jason's request. Duh, of course.

"Yes. The matter he discussed with me on top of the Gotham Clock Tower, it was more complicated than what we originally believed it to be." Not entirely a lie. A few omissions here and there never hurt anyone.

"Hn."

"We're expecting the ritual to go off three to four days from now, so I was hoping that I could be, well, suspended from League duties for that duration to help Blood with preparations."

Typing noises could be heard in the background, then a pause, and, "So be it. I'll make changes to the schedule and shifts so that you'll be exempted."

Wait, that's it? Just ask and everything sorts out? It was that easy? "Batman, sir? May I ask a question?"

"Mm."

"What is your relationship with Blood? Many of us were under the impression that you aren't the fondest of magic, and yet you two seem quite close."

Silence came from the communicator. Oh shoot, maybe shouldn't have ask-

"He is an old acquaintance."

"I-I see."

"He is an obstinate man who thinks he has no choice but to take on the world by his lonesome."

"Yeah, I've noticed."

"Seeing that he has asked for your help, I believe I have no choice but to ask for your assistance as well."

"Huh?"

"Captain. Your duties in the Justice League? I will personally take over for you if you can promise me you'll look after Jason Blood while you are aiding him."

Gods have mercy, Batman is asking him? A favor? Holy moly.

"I promise, Batman."

"Good. I'll hold you to it." And the line went dead.

Holy moly.

Just as he was about to dip into the usual alleyway for his transformation, Captain Marvel recalled what Jason had informed him right before his departure, something about not entirely fixing the skylight and leaving just enough space for him to squeeze through. Worth a try. Circling over the top of the mansion, he saw the hole, and dipped into it.

Remnants of their earlier fight were still visible. A little scorch there, and a lot of banged up places. Raising his right arm and pointing to the hole up above, he yelled with pride, "Shazam!" And there he was again, Billy Batson.

Patting himself down, he trudged down the stairs, but as he descended, he heard sounds. A conversation that was progressively getting more and more heated. Not good. Who could it be? As he neared, one voice he recognized immediately, how could he not? He's heard it so many times for the past couple days, the world-weary voice of Jason, except it sounded extra exasperated this time. As for the other voice? He's heard it before, but he couldn't put his finger on it right now. Tiptoeing down the stairs, he kept straining his ears, trying to listen in on the conversation.

"-ouse. You're not exactly welcome here after all of your unannounced visits in the past."

"'Ey, I'm here 'cause I care 'bout you. You were the one that bloody got up all in me case back at the bar, an' now you don' want me no more? You're hurtin' my feelings, Blood."

The voice was sluggish and words were slurring together. A friend? Didn't really sound like it, though.

"You ended up about as useless as I expected. Your help is unnecessary."

"Cold one, aren'cha. Why're you pushin' me away now, Blood? Got somethin' to hide?"

"Leave."

He took a peek. A filthy brown trench coat with stains at the bottom. A dirty mop of blonde hair. A terrible smell of cigarette smoke. And Gods, what the heck is that other smell? Sweat? Alcohol?

Putting two and two together, Billy gasped and cried out, "Holy moly, John Constantine!"

Both men whipped their heads towards the boy. Oh geez. Jason buried his face in his left hand and Constantine's lit cigarette fell onto the ground. Billy waved meekly, "Um, hi?"

Jason dragged his hand down his face. "Constantine, meet Billy. Billy, John Constantine, the man who perfected the bad idea. A world class bastard."

"Billy, eh? Hiding this cute one away from me? Where'd ya get him?" Before Jason could answer, Constantine crouched down, looked up at him on the staircase, and cooed at him as if he were a small animal. "Hey, come're boy. I won't bite."

Billy scrunched his face up and looked at Jason, who just mouthed, "humor him". No other choice. He walked down to meet the strange Englishman.

"There he is, the birthday boy!" John pinched his cheek and began to jostle it. A small whine escaped from his lips. "So, tell your Uncle John, what's your name? Be polite now, kid."

He saw Jason about to open his mouth to protest, but he answered anyway. "It's Billy, like Jason said. Billy Batson." Jason covered his face again. Constantine opened his mouth slowly, forming a large "O" shape and eyes started to dart between the two of them. Um, what did he say wrong this time?

"Jason Blood, you sly old dog, you! You said you didn't, you said you weren't interested! And now look at you, can't believe you're fuckin' shaggin' Bruce fuckin' Wayne!"

"He's just a friend!" Jason practically roared back at Constantine.

"Oh really, it ain't like you to be so, so obvious with it! Really? Bat-son? Really, Blood?" Constantine began to convulse with laughter.

"Enough, Constantine! Shut up and get out of my house!"

"Can't wait 'til I tell Zee 'bout this! Gossip of the century! Blood's shaggin' Bats!"

Bruce Wayne? What's he got to do with all this? Bat-son? Bats? Batman? Wait. Wait!

"Holy moly, Batman's Bruce Wayne?"

That shook Constantine out of his stupor. Jason sat on the ground and rested his forehead on his knees in defeat.

"Hol' up. You're meanin' to say this kid ain't the Bat's?"

"Get out, Constantine."

"Wait, Blood, but the kid knew me nam-"

" Gadael !" A glowing circle beneath Constantine's feet appeared, and then he vanished along with the circle.

A moment of silence passed before Billy sat down and scooched next to Jason. The man sighed into his legs, "Well, now you know."

"It's pretty obvious in hindsight. Richest guy in Gotham being Batman."

"I suppose. Bloody hell, it'll take hours to get his stench out of the house."

The boy snickered at that, and quieted down. "So, we're not the only ones to find out Batman's secret identity?"

"No. Most of the magical community knows, and some mind readers like the Martian. It's a closely guarded secret in the League, however. A memo that the Hellblazer evidently forgot to read."

"I mean, I can see why it's a secret. Oh wait, so all the Wayne kids in the news are Robins?"

"Yes, most of them." Wow. "I hope you'll keep quiet about it. Bruce'll have a fit if he hears about this. Imagine the hysteria he'll be in when he hears that Captain Marvel of all people knows who he is."

Gosh, he didn't even think about that yet! The thought of it, though, was making him snigger, that slowly grew into a full-blown laugh.

And Jason caught himself laughing along as well.

Chapter Text

First day of no heroics in four years. Roughly two more days until they go on a stake-out. Billy finished his normal-tasting breakfast and placed the empty dish, cup, and dirty utensils into the sink, and dashed towards the study where Jason asked him to meet in after he made his meal.

First day of training and studying. Something he could never believe would happen. He had given up almost all hope of having a proper education ages ago when his Uncle Ebenezer kicked him out. And then the series of awful foster homes extinguished what little hope he held onto. As for magic, no magical hero ever talked magic with him. Whenever he tried to make small talk, they would just nod, smile, and then power-walk out the room. He knew he was awkward around some of the heroes, but that's downright rude.

But Jason's here. Even though deep down he knew Jason was just doing this to make him more prepared for the big showdown, but he did say that this could keep going after everything's done, right? On the very first night they met. He's starting to get used to the house, and he really, really likes Jason now. He's really nice, and kind. Still a little weird and has many quirks, but he's super understanding and helpful once he's stopped doing his annoying questioning mind games. And knows just how to make Billy laugh.

As for Etrigan, Billy's still on the fence. After getting his butt kicked twice in a row by the demon, once as Billy and the other time as the Captain, the demon's a sore topic for him. Yeah, he did ask for his help, but the way how Etrigan requested his help was awfully selfish. And that fight with Captain Marvel was really strange. Billy is 99% sure that the demon was helping him vent his frustrations, but whether it was from Jason's insistence or not, he just wasn't sure. He was really nice after the fight was over, and the actions didn't seem like they were forced.

Knock, knock. He opened the door and walked into the room. The bags under Jason's eyes were ever so prominent, strongly contrasted by his pale complexion, but he smiled nonetheless at the boy's entrance.

"Billy, come on in. It's time for a little lesson. Sit at this small desk I've prepared for you."

Obediently, he sat down at the wooden school desk. Comfier than it looked.

"Now, about that small spar you had with Etrigan," speak of the devil, "let's go over the details, shall we?"

"Yeah! I had some things to ask about it as well!"

"You can save your questions until we reach whichever part you have inquiries about. So, let's begin."

Sounds like a performance review. Batman had called both him and Superman sloppy fighters and that they needed to work on their stances, but that was too abstract for the boy. Stance? Isn't fighting just punching? He recalled asking. Batman then said something along the lines of how they had both been lucky. Superman had a very embarrassed look on his face that day as well, if he remembered correctly.

"The first strike Etrigan landed on you," Jason's voice snapped Billy out of his thoughts. "How did it happen?"

"I charged at him, and then he moved away at the last second, and bam."

"Quite descriptive, but yes. Now, how did Etrigan know to move away?"

"Because he saw me and could move away fast enough?"

"But child, remember, you have the Speed of Mercury. We cannot tap into the Speed Force like the Flash, nor do we have super speed like Superman; what you proposed is impossible." Shoot.

He tapped his head and thought hard. Why was he able to move out of the way, then? And the cloaked person? Unless, oh geez. "Because I was going straight ahead?"

"Yes. Your movement is predictable. Very predictable, in fact." Crud. "Following that, what did Etrigan do?"

"He, uh, I think he jumped? Probably to get some distance between us."

"Correct. When you are unaware of how strong your opponent is, quick strikes and fall back to observe. Then, what was your reaction?"

Hmm. The spell? "I cast my thunder spell?"

"Mm. Not quite the answer I wanted, but close. You did something in order to cast the spell, did you not?"

"Oh yeah, I had to outstretch my arms so that it shoots forward. Wait. Oh."

"It seems like you've noticed. It's a rather obvious tell. When the opponent is distracted, it's quite perfect, but you had the demon's full attention." Oof. Yeah, that was a big mistake when he put it like that. "Then? What happened afterwards?"

The glowy runes on the ground and shimmering air. Probably a barrier? Might as well give it a shot. "Was it a barrier? I think my spell hit a barrier."

Jason nodded. "Correct once more."

"But what I don't understand is how Etrigan did it. And when. He didn't say a spell of any kind. Was it those glowy runes on the ground?"

And to that, Jason looked away. Huh?

"Ah, that was a, mistake on my part. You see, for precaution, I've warded every last property I own throughout the world with a variety of spells. This humble abode here in Gotham sits at 63, the most out of them all. There's a reason why my house in particular is often chosen to host magical gatherings, and it's because of the safety I guarantee." That's actually terrifying.

"What I wasn't expecting, was that Etrigan could now activate them. He shares my sight and can access my memories with a little spell, so he knew exactly where that barrier ward was."

Well, that explains it, except for the, "Now?"

Jason winced. "Yes. Now. My wards can only be activated by yours truly unless I explicitly allow otherwise, such as the one in your right palm. Hence, Etrigan being capable of doing so now, is quite, worrying, to say the very least."

Gods. "The merging."

"Yes, but let's carry on from that topic now, shall we? While you were dazed by my barrier, where was Etrigan?"

"In the air? He landed on me."

"Why didn't he just rush towards you?"

Why didn't he? Huh? Wait, is that it? "Because it would've been predictable?" A shot in the dark, but it kinda made sense.

"Not exactly." Dang. "It was to leave your line of sight for a surprise attack. While you were still distracted by the barrier, Etrigan had all the time for a set up, and he decided on further humiliation."

"About that, why was he so bent on making fun of me? I had the feeling that he was just playing around with me the entire time, but I'm not really sure why he was doing it."

"Etrigan, well, he's. Hm. How should I put it, he's only interested in entertaining himself. What I'm assuming happened was that he was purposefully agitating you so that you would make more mistakes, and well, put on a better show."

"So he was making fun of me."

"For, want of a better word, I suppose. But, there really was no need for that. You are, no offense, an easy target. Powerful, but not a seasoned fighter."

"Is there any chance that he was helping me sort out my feelings?"

The man snorted incredulously. "Helping you with your feelings? Hardly possible. The beast is a selfish one who only caters to his own needs and whims."

"B-but, but if he really is becoming more and more like you?"

"If you said that he was trying to teach you in his own perverse way, then I'd believe that, considering how I did ask for his assistance in training you on the matters of combat. But even with bits and pieces of my mind blending with that of his, it'll do you well to remember that he is several hundred thousand years old. His ego, in terms of both pride and personal identity, are much stronger than that of mine."

"Wait, so that mea-"

"There is a possibility that Jason Blood would cease to exist if we were to merge, completely swallowed by Etrigan's overwhelming presence. Remnants of myself may remain floating around in the head, perhaps acting as a conscience for the beast, but I'm pitting my meager fifteen hundred years of memories and personality that has been formed from said memories up against his."

They both fell silent. The man that sat before him, Billy never really looked at him. He was so gaunt, his eyes were so dull. It looked as though he hadn't slept in days! And, thinking back, Billy can't remember a single time when Jason ate with him! Oh no, he can't be!

As if he read Billy's mind, Jason waved a hand dismissively, "I can rest when all this is done, when the threat of imminent merging and my "death" isn't constantly plaguing my mind. Now, could we please just return to your combat analysis?"

Gods, he was pleading with him. He's already. Gods. Billy swallowed thickly and nodded. He didn't want to talk about it either anymore.

"Thank you, Billy. Now, what happened after you were sent flying backwards?" Jason softly reminded.

"I tried casting the thunder spell again. But before I could finish, Etrigan threw a fireball at me."

"Now why would he do that?"

"To distract me. But why didn't he just do the big fire rainstorm? Why do a tiny, well, tiny compared to the firestorm, when he could just do that?"

"Well, the fireball was simply to snap you out of your spell, to buy enough time to let the larger spell take form." Oh. That made way too much sense. "However, the bigger question is, why did Etrigan choose that hellfire storm spell when he had many more at his disposal?"

Another doozy of a question. Jason's saying that Etrigan could've chosen from a ton more spells, but he chose that one on purpose? When he technically avoided most of the attack aside from a few stray drops landing on his outfit? And he bought time, so he could've cast a much more powerful spell to just knock him out instead of just slugging him from below. Wait. It can't be. But Jason did say, and watching the demon work during League missions. No way, that can't be it.

"Is it because that big spell was also a distraction?"

"For what, exactly?"

"To uppercut me."

Jason smiled. "Yes, you are absolutely correct. Etrigan always preferred to make things physical. While born with a vast amount of magical power, he detests using magic because the powerful and flashy ones take time and energy; why that when he could just enter a fistfight and come out victorious? There is no thrill of the hunt or rush of adrenaline if he's in the background casting a spell, none at all."

"He's crazy."

"You should see what sort of nonsense he gets into when Lobo's involved."

"Lobo? As in the space bounty hunter, Lobo?"

"That's the one. They beat the living hell out of each other before going out for drinks and fun. Every single time they meet, without fail."

"He's really crazy."

"Yes. So now, we enter the final stretch. After landing that hit on you, what happened? Why did you back away from Etrigan when he approached you?"

Billy looked at his hands on the desk. "I don't really know. The Courage of Achilles and Stamina of Atlas were still going strong, but I just couldn't stand up. I really tried."

"I know you did. But do you really not know why you couldn't stand up, Billy? Think back to how you, not Captain Marvel, felt."

The flames. The dizziness. The total loss of control of the situation. Completely one-sided match, and it wasn't because Captain Marvel was weaker than Etrigan. Billy took a deep breath and gave his answer. "It was because I gave up, wasn't it. It wasn't because I was afraid, it was because I was convinced that I couldn't win."

Jason stood up and went next to the boy, kneeling next to him and with a hand on the boy's head. "And that is what Etrigan specializes in, utterly demoralizing his opponents. He mirrors what his opponent does, but better. Gets in their head, and always one step ahead. When they think they have the upper hand, and more than often they actually do, Etrigan seldom fails to bluff his way through. You are stronger in every single aspect, but you've made too many mistakes in retrospect. Vicious despite his taunts and jives, it's a wonder that you made it out alive."

He's, he's rhyming again.

"So if there's anything to be gleaned from that fight, it's," he gave the boy a reassuring pat on the head and a small, playful ruffle, but still minding the bandages on his head.

Billy leaned into the hand. "It's that I need to think a bit more. Before I go rushing in and letting my emotions get the better of me."

"And that concludes this lesson. I'll let you think about the entire encounter once more during this little break. Then, I'll give you a quick starting lesson in magic, how does that sound?"

The boy deflated onto the desk. "That sounds really good."

Chapter Text

"Now, magic. We need to first ascertain just what you are capable of as the Champion of Magic, and what you can do as Billy Batson." Jason had wheeled out a small blackboard during the break. Is there nothing he didn't have in this house of his?

Billy nodded. Fair. He wanted to know as well. He knew that he couldn't shoot lightning out of his hands like he can as the Captain, but there are still a few questions, like why he could call for The Wizard's lightning. That was technically magic, wasn't it?

The older man took a piece of chalk and wrote three words on the board. "Billy, could you read these words out loud for me? Reading it incorrectly would be preferable." Um, okay? That he can do for sure.

"Y-ya. Ya-ruh, Yarva? Wait, Yarva? Oh geez, wait a second, isn't that the spell?"

"Yes," the man deadpanned. "Exactly why it would be preferable to not be read correctly." Oh. Right.

"You see," Jason began to write, no, draw under the three words, "magic can be split into many categories, but these are the most common of them all." One drawing of a mouth, and one drawing of a simple magic circle. "Verbal and written," he supplied.

"You have seen magic users with horrendously long incantations, no? That's one form of verbal magic. The other would be," he drew an arrow at the spell written above, "like this one and the ones that both you and Etrigan are more accustomed to casting. Short spells do require a natural affinity to magic and the correct intonation, however. If it were any other way, you'd have the entire populace slinging spells."

Oh. That's easy to understand. "So, are longer spells, like, worse? You know, aside from the taking ages to cast thing?"

"Not necessarily. Do you recall the poems that Etrigan and I use most of the time in order to transform?"

"The "rise the demon Etrigan" one? Oh, that's pretty long."

"Indeed it is. Rather, this one," he tapped at the first of the three words, "isn't used as often. The reason is simple; it draws too much power at once."

Jason drew a long, horizontal arrow. "The long incantation slowly gathers the magic inside the user's body before manifesting as whatever spell it was intended to be. However, short incantations," he drew two dots with a different color at both ends of the arrow, "happen instantaneously."

"Zero to a hundred super fast?"

"Precisely. It would leave the caster exhausted, if he were inexperienced or naturally had lower magical reserves. Nothing a long rest wouldn't fix, but still, in a dire situation, that moment of weakness may be fatal."

"But you, er, wait, yeah, you and Etrigan both don't get tired! The spell that you used to get Mr. Constantine out of the house! And all that fire from Etrigan!"

"He is a demon prince of Hell, my boy. He's got enough magic to spare for centuries. And thanks to him being tethered to me for so long, as do I." Oh, right.

"Then, what about me? I had no problem casting my vrontí spell during our fight!"

Jason walked over and lightly tapped him on the forehead with a knuckle before walking back to the board. "Forgetful one, aren't you, little Champion of Magic." Oh. Right. Gosh. He flushed red with embarrassment, and much to his chagrin, Jason chuckled.

"Moving on to you alone, do you recall what happened when you said these three words down at the harbor?"

"I think I heard you say something, and then I passed out. Oh Gods, is it because I used too much energy?"

"I would assume so, along with everything that had happened. While you did get a little rest, I can only surmise that Billy Batson's depleted magical energy was only truly recovered after turning into Captain Marvel, but it's only a hypothesis, considering how you aren't accustomed to using magic in this form."

Accustomed? Now's the time for that question, then. "I don't think I can use magic as Billy, though? Maybe call down the lightning, but nothing else, not even little sparks out of my fingers, even if I do say my spells correctly."

"Right. And what about this?" He tapped the three words.

Billy pressed his lips together and then smiled awkwardly, "A fluke?"

"A likely story. Continuing the hypothesis, I assume that your spell to transform into the Captain also requires much energy, but it instantly recovers when you actually complete the transformation. In short, you have the capacity for magic, boy. The Wizard's powers merely jumpstarted your magical core. Perhaps the magic Captain Marvel taps into is far too raw and unfiltered that a magically unprepared individual such yourself is incapable of calling upon it. But that can be changed."

"So," Billy started slowly. He didn't want to jump to conclusions just yet, lest the man dashed his newfound glimmer of hope. "I'll be able, to, you know."

"Yes, Billy. You will be able to use magic even in this form in due time."

The boy pumped his fist in the air. Yes! Ever since gaining his alter ego, he'd wished that he was able to use those powers as Billy Batson as well, and now it's gonna be a reality! Jason cleared his throat to bring the boy back to real life. The currently magic-less reality.

"In due time, my boy. In due time. Which is why we need," he pointed to the magic circle he drew on the board, "this. Written magic. Do you recall how I mentioned in passing, that my own magical aptitude was abysmal, that I had to rely on magic circles at the beginning? As long as you write or draw it correctly," Jason motioned the boy to finish his statement.

"It'll be easy peasy."

"Not my exact words, but the heart is there. Yes. If you draw one of these circles and write the spell you have in mind, it'll work. Much more work than just saying a couple words and having the desired effect with the only price being fatigue, but this sort of rudimentary magic casting comes in handy in the direst of situations. I tried to convince Zatanna to heed my words, but she's utterly addicted to her own special blend of verbal magic. Hence, why many of her adversaries always aim to silence her voice, knowing full well that she can't fight back if she's mute."

The boy cocked his head to one side and asked, "But why wouldn't she want to learn? It's never a bad thing to be more prepared, right?"

"Exactly!" Jason grinned widely at Billy's question. "There is no harm in being prepared and ready for the worst possible situation. Zatanna is gifted with tremendous magic, but that limits her way of thinking. "All I have to do is say the words to get me out of this situation." Once a magic user falls into that line of thought, it limits your capability and your growth. Her greatest gift is now her greatest yoke."

Holy moly. He looked at his open right palm. "I'm also relying too much on Captain Marvel, huh?"

Jason took his hand into his own, gently pressing down the center of it with his thumb. "You're willing to learn and to listen to my archaic way of thinking. The younger mages always think I fuss or worry too much, but it's thanks to my diligence that I could survive this long." A small twitch, and he added, "And Etrigan, of course. Can't forget about him even if I wanted to."

"So," the man said as he walked back to the board. "Resourcefulness. You have plenty of it. Seeing as to how you managed to scrape by for, how many years on the streets was it again?"

"Uh, five."

Jason inhaled deeply, keeping it together. "Yes, five. The average child would have long since perished, but not you. The damage you take as Captain Marvel is not transferred onto your mortal body, but the wounds you sustain as Billy do not recover either. Meaning you still managed to survive on your own. A truly impressive feat. Compounded with the fact that you've faced Etrigan off as yourself and managed to get out of the situation with nothing more than psychological trauma and a broken knee, you are clearly a very, very remarkable individual."

The boy blushed once more. Gosh. He's making him sound all impressive and amazing. But he sounds so genuine.

Tapping the magic circle on the board once more, Jason declared, "This is why we should try crafting some magic circles of your own, today. I'll provide a minimal amount of guidance, but you will be the one to inscribe it."

Billy rubbed his hands together. Sounds easy enough!

It was not easy.

Jason requested him to craft a demon repelling magic circle, for Etrigan, Billy's assuming, and it was not coming along very well. The deadline was tomorrow at midnight, when they would depart for their stake-out. And it was already after he ate dinner, which was a delicious meat patty with some leafy vegetables that he didn't recognize on the side.

Apparently, for magic circles to actually work, it had to have his own "brand"; the way his magic circles are designed had to be unique and personal to him and him alone. But they aren't supposed to be "designed by him", oh no. The image had to come out of his own mind on its own accord. He had to let this inner magic flow out of him, whatever that meant, thus removing the need to apply additional magic. Jason claimed his came to him in a dream and he spent the following years trying to replicate it all the while putting up with Etrigan's mocking laughter. That sounded like Hell, pun fully intended.

All ten fingers pressed onto his forehead, he balanced his pencil on top of his lips. Gods, this is way too hard. And according to Jason, it took Miss Zatanna almost a week before she got it down! And then she just gave up on trying to recreate the circle! But you don't have an Etrigan in your head, nor is your mind already filled with backwards spells, Jason had told him before sitting down with a heavy, dusty tome across the room. He had been giving him pointers, but that's it! It really was a minimal amount of guidance! How come he's such a good teacher sometimes and absolutely the worst in times like these?

"Rather than thinking furiously at me, how about you put that mind elsewhere, hm?" Busted. Wait, how did he figure that out without taking his eyes off his bo-

"You're about as open as this book in my lap." Gee, thanks.

He had drawn so many circles on the parchments Jason provided that he swore he would be seeing them all again in his dreams for a year! Removing the pencil, he found an empty space on the piece of parchment laid before him, and just pressed the tip of the pencil on it. Put my mind somewhere else, huh. Let's do that then.

Billy thought about Captain Marvel.

The absolute wonder he felt when he first took to the skies after returning from the Rock of Eternity. The first bout he had with Sivana, with the scientist tearing the upper crust of Fawcett's society down with a massive robot. The shred of hope he held onto when meeting Black Adam, that he was someone that he could call family, before finding out that he was the one that took his real family from him. The sheer amount of giddiness he felt when the famous Justice League, his heroes, extended an invitation to him.

Then Billy thought about the strange pair, Jason Blood and Etrigan.

How infuriating the man was to deal with at the start, with all the tricky language and how stupid he felt whenever they talked. How kind the man was when dressing his wounds, talking softly and hands working even gentler than the experienced nurses he's encountered. How creepy the demon was when showing off his terrible teeth and seeing his glowing red eyes in the dark, only to find out he was there to ask for help in his own cryptic way. How dishonest the demon was that even the man believed he didn't have the capacity to care, but he did, when he allowed the boy to vent, to cry, and helped him forget the hurting inside. How dreadful the entire situation they've found themselves in, the threat of merging into one mostly Etrigan individual. How much he'd like to stay with them, with both the weird man and the even weirder demon.

And then, finally, Billy thought about himself.

A poor boy who lost everything at the age of six when his parents went off on an expedition to Egypt and never returned. A wretched little scoundrel that felt the brunt of his Uncle Ebenezer's cane whenever he did something wrong. A worthless parasite that was never a part of the family, that was always thrown back into the system for being "unruly" or "disobedient" or just "himself." A small, little orphan boy with nary a thing to eat most of the time, scrounging through the garbage of others just for something to fill his stomach or filthy rags to wear. A beggar who had to rely on handouts and the kindness of others to get by the worst of days. A Champion of Magic, appointed by The Wizard himself, to protect those who could not do so by themselves. A boy, not a champion of anything, just a boy, serving as a shoulder to lean on for one of the most respected individuals in the magical community.

A boy that was treated like Billy Batson, for once.

"Well, would you look at that. You really are a prodigy."

He looked up and saw Jason Blood standing before him, carrying a proud smile as he looked at the boy straight in his eyes.

Billy Batson looked down.

A pretty little circle adorned with zig zags on the border and complicated squiggles inside; it generally just resembled random doodles. But looking at it made the boy's heart flutter. Something told him that this was his, and only his.

Not the Captain's. His.

"Mine." He stated with a certain air of finality, as though if he didn't say it out loud for himself to hear, it wouldn't be true. That it would all just disappear.

"Yes, and only yours."

Chapter Text

15 more hours until they'll be leaving for Robinson Park. Who knows how long before it's all going to end, but that's when they'll be ready and launch a surprise attack.

Ever since finishing his breakfast, a nice baked potato, Billy had been cooped up in Jason's study once more with the man in question overlooking his work. The boy had been practicing, drawing his magic circle over and over again, until he swore he could draw it with his eyes closed. And he could, albeit missing a couple lines on the top and a few squiggles down at the bottom, receiving a firm but painless bonk on the head from Jason's rolled up Gotham Gazette newspaper. It had to be perfect, Jason insisted. Not because he was a perfectionist, which he was, but Billy chalked it up to his anxiety, because according to the man, one wrong inscription and the spell could range from not working to blowing up in his face, literally. Gods, no wonder it's not a popular form of magic. So many requirements, and one mistake and everything blows. It blows so hard.

Jason was weird like that, Billy's come to acknowledge it and accept it already, but he was not ready for the man to just, frame his first magic circle. Like, an actual fancy frame that he removed the photo from and placed his drawing in. And he just placed it in front of him to copy. And why the heck was he so proud of it? He just sat there, gave snide remarks, and read his stupid book. Adults, he huffed. Another bonk on the head for getting an attitude.

Another try, then. Keeping his eyes on the magic circle displayed before him, he carefully drew. One stroke, and the outermost circle was done. Another stroke, and another, and now, he drew on the intricate patterns that decorated it. Gosh, why did his subconscious have to make it so hecking complicated. Sticking his tongue in complete concentration, he connected the last marking, and done! He held it up to his teacher, who took his paper and looked over it, comparing it with the framed picture.

"No, this won't do." Billy collapsed onto the desk with a loud groan of despair. "Now, hold on a moment. You must let me finish. What I meant is that I'll miss hitting you with my morning paper."

"You're really mean, Jason."

"Humor me, lad. It's quite entertaining when you're on the other side of the table. But look on the bright side, now we get to move onto the easy part, writing the words!"

Another long and drawn out groan. "Jason, are you forgetting that I can't, you know, really read and write like this?"

"Which is why you'll be writing in Greek, boy." Huh? But he just told the man that he can't write?

The expression of confusion on his face made Jason explain, "Quick reminder, then. I prefer using Welsh in my spells, Etrigan, Latin. Captain Marvel? Greek, thanks to the strong ties with the Greek pantheon. But you? Your lack in the English language is made up with proficiency in another."

"Uh, Greek, too?" 

"Yes. You're in tune with it as well, so that's what you'll be going with."

"But, I don't get it? That still doesn't make a whole lot of sense? I don't really know how to write in Greek either? Like I can say and listen to it just fine, but writing? And you can just show me how to write something in English and I'll write it down?"

Jason knelt down and looked straight into Billy's eyes. "Well, excuse me for going off the assumption that you would want your spells to feel "cool" and "fancy". But I see that you want the average person to understand your magic, and remove the mysticism of it all?"

Billy covered his mouth, holding in the laugh that was threatening to explode out.

"Really, you wish to write "thunder" in the circle rather than the superior "vrontí"? Isn't that just swell. Look at you, the Champion of Magic's mortal form, using humble and down-to-earth words that everyone can understand. I hope Zatanna learns from you. Bloody sick of listening to her backwards spells, if you ask me."

Couldn't hold it in anymore, Billy burst out in laughter. "Alright, alright! I get it! I'll write in Greek! Please, just stop!"

Jason chuckled as he prepared his chalk. "Deal. Now, you tell me what you want to write, I'll transcribe it, and you jot it down."

"You said, anti-demon, right? I guess that would be something like, uh, "thá", uh, "thálamos daimónon"? Demon ward?"

"Hm. That works perfectly, yes. Let me try, I do believe I'm quite rusty," and with several strokes, he wrote "θάλαμος δαιμόνων" neatly on the board. "There. Now write that in your circle, I'll get prepared for the test run."

Billy got to work even before Jason left the room. Gosh, why is Greek filled with squiggly letters. Just as he was triple checking, the scent of sulfur hit his nose.

"Did I keep you waiting? Hope this isn't too, ah, frustrating." Etrigan sauntered into the room, a wide grin splitting his face.

"Nope. So. I guess you're here to try out my magic circle demon ward?"

"No, I'm here to smash your skull open with my fist. Or do you want another answer down my checklist?"

Billy snorted and held his magic circle up, and crack! Etrigan's entire arm was blown backwards with great force the second he tried to touch it; small plumes of smoke emerged from the hand he was now cradling.

"Holy moly, Etrigan! Your hand!" Dark welts that almost looked burnt had appeared on the surface of his yellow skin, starting from his fingertips.

He scratched it idly, picking at the lines, and drew blood as the skin was torn off. Billy squirmed uncomfortably as the skin began to stitch itself together, back into its usual, sickly yellow color.

"That is the coolest and grossest thing I've ever seen in my li-oof!"

Of all the things he could've ever imagined, he never saw Etrigan giving him a bear hug as something he would ever get to experience! The demon was cackling now, chest rumbling with laughter as his embrace grew tighter, but never to the point of discomfort. They spun around for a couple times before Etrigan dropped the boy onto the ground.

Arms akimbo, Etrigan crowed, "I knew it! I knew it! You really are a prodigy! All who wronged you, the foolish and horrid masses, they owe you an apology! A ward of that caliber, with magic of that power, Billy Batson will never have to cower! Your first attempt! Your first success! This demon is without a doubt, truly impressed!"

Still in a daze, Billy hardly registered the playful pat on the head Etrigan gave him with his burnt hand as he was trying to fully absorb everything that the demon had just said. He was praising him. Etrigan. Jason was praising him too, not too long ago.

And he said his name. Gods, it feels so good.

"Wipe those tears and get ready, Billy," wait, when did he start crying again? "We can't have you crying so messily. Many more things we have to prepare, we'll end this with a smile and a grand flair!"

It's hard not to smile when a demon who talks in rhymes is trying to cheer you up, even if it was a weird situation. Etrigan flashed another grin with way too many teeth, squished Billy's cheeks once, and then dashed away to another room, presumably to transform back to Jason. And soon, true enough, Jason stumbled back into the room, looking far too disoriented for comfort.

Immediately rushing towards the man, Billy ducked under him and supported him as best as he could, but the man was panting heavily and his eyes were dilating, and soon he collapsed onto the floor, bringing Billy with him.

"Jason! Are you alright?"

"To-too fast, too soon, I had yet to stabilize. I-I suppose we were much more excited than we realized. Give me some time, Billy, and a little space, you still have a, ngh, magic circle to trace. The clock is ticking, we've got not much more to spare, we've still got a villainous demon to ensnare."

Demon? It took a moment before it hit him. The cloaked figure. The demonic runes. The glowing eyes. The fire that was a little too hot for comfort. Jason's insistence on a demon-repelling rune.

They were up against a demon who casts Greek spells.

Nodding, Billy rushed back to his desk, and got back to work.

By the time the sun set, Billy had crafted a whole score of anti-demon magic circles that passed Jason's careful scrutiny. And with Jason's help, he wrote some extra spells, just in case. A barrier cage spell, a lighting spell, another lightning spell, a flying spell, and so on; Gods, he's never felt this ready before in his life! After another quick lesson, he learned that he could control the wards with his mind! The mind! Just by willing it, he can turn the wards on and off! Imagine that! A couple tries and a couple rugs scorched by magic lightning were all it took before he got it working.

Almost ready. Almost time. All they had to do was plaster them around the park, forming a powerful barrier, and hopefully, trapping their target inside with them to minimize any damage to the city itself. And then, boom. Let the guy step on all the landmin, er, wards on the ground! Whoever this demon was, he was in for a crazy amount of pain. A brand new Captain Marvel, Jason Blood, and Etrigan were on his case!

Peeking into the study, he saw Jason cramming an insane amount of things into a small wallet-sized bag. Journals, herbs, medicine, strange goops, bottles, containers, boxes of chalk, the list went on as more and more things in the room let out a small light before flying into the bag.

"-lieve I've missed anything. I agree, but we mustn't be too hasty. Too dangerous. I'm not being neurotic, if anything, you're the one that's nervous. I can feel your trembling all the way out here." A pause. "Is in peak condition. Don't worry. His knee's still a little, no, no, like I said, it wasn't entirely your fault. Well, not exactly, but still. Do you perha, I could arran-"

Seemed to be in a discussion with Etrigan, and it started to feel a bit rude watching the man carry out a private conversation, so Billy skittered back to the living room and sat down on his favorite couch. But, weren't they also talking about him? His knee? He brought his right knee up and gave it a couple swings. No pain, just a bit sore. Good enough for running, though. His head? The bump was gone and no pain or soreness. Peak condition, alright! And when he becomes Captain Marvel, these won't even be a problem!

Jason Blood could feel that he was on the onset of a mental breakdown. Or maybe a stroke. Whatever it was, he could feel parts of his mind twitching on the inside, like parts of his brain were coming alive and squirming around like maggots. A most repulsive sensation that was slowly driving him mad, but he trucked on through. He had to. They were so close, he could taste it. He's held on for so long, he had to keep it together. Of course, he had no proof that stopping the mastermind would stop, well, everything, but he had no other choice than to cling onto this sliver of hope, of a way out of this nightmare.

A spike of adrenaline coursed through his veins. Etrigan. His body technically shouldn't even be alive right now; Etrigan has been steadily supplying just enough to keep him functioning without going too far. When all this is over and after he's gotten a nice, long, and wholly deserved rest, Jason will just let the demon take control for as long as he wants. He deserved that much for working overtime. The man smiled briefly as he heard a small purr of satisfaction coming from the demon inside. Oh, he'd like that, alright.

Gripping onto the desk, he quickly went over the catalog of items in his mind that he had been formulating for the past two days. Everything that he needed for the situation. Hopefully. He's still going with his gut feeling, that it's a powerful demon they're about to face, but once again, it's nothing more than guesswork, along with when their foe would show up. For all they know, this demonic entity may come and finish the job a month from now. And was it even close to finishing in the first place? So many questions left unanswered and only working off of semi-baseless conjectures. So very unlike himself, but cut him some slack. He hasn't felt like he was wearing his own skin ever since Etrigan hit him with the truth of what was going on.

The boy was getting his part done. Demon-repelling wards created by the mortal form of the Champion of Magic were, as demonstrated not too long ago, capable of hurting demon royalty. Surely whatever unholy hellspawn would burn into a crisp if it tried to escape the confinement. He would've been crafting those wards himself, if it weren't for the sudden variable of Etrigan being able to activate his wards. That means that he might be tainted. High probability of his own wards backfiring on him now. Or maybe there would be no change, no difference. But he just can't take the risk. Not right now.

He reached for a small bag, one that he had enchanted with a bottomless attribute so that he could store whatever he needed to bring. Waving both index fingers in the air, he went down his mental list and started packing.

"You're like a tightly drawn string; have you missed something?"

"No, I don't believe I've missed anything."

"We'll strike hard and fast, and make him sing."

"I agree, but we mustn't be too hasty. Too dangerous."

"You're worrying too much, and I'm not being generous."

"I'm not being neurotic, if anything, you're the one that's nervous. I can feel your trembling all the way out here."

"Still thy tongue. Me, trembling and quivering? You do me a great disservice. By the time we're finished with the bastard, we'll bathe in his fear."

Checking the list again, he opened his drawers and he continued packing.

"I know I need not of permissions, but the boy-"

"Is in peak condition. Don't worry. His knee's still a little-"

"Broken from the assault? I-"

"No, no, like I said, it wasn't entirely your fault. Well, not exactly, but still. Do you perha-"

"I think I've had my fill."

"I could arrange for it, if you so ask."

"Just keep your eyes on the task. Double check, triple check, make it four times or more."

"I swear, we've taken everything in store."

"Then, any last words, before we leave?"

"Let us set out and accomplish what we aim to achieve."

Deep breath. Inhale, exhale. Ignore the throbbing headache. It'll only get worse.

Chapter Text

Midnight. Time to go. A silencing spell from Jason. A large crack of soundless lightning from Billy. A moment later, and Captain Marvel was soaring through the skies carrying a precious burden only to himself. Gods, Jason was so light. Face just barely visible from the reflected moonlight, he could hardly recognize the man as the highly respected sorcerer he met back in the Justice League. Sickly pale, eyes darting anxiously, muttering unintelligibly under his breath.

But it was him, and he desperately needed his help right now.

Reaching Robinson Park, Jason jumped off of the Captain's arms and started to glance around wildly. Casting another silencing spell on the Captain, he whispered, "Could you repeat what I told you, just to see if you forgot?"

Captain Marvel counted on his fingers, "Verbal magic, enlarge, place the magic circles in a circle around the park, then make them invisible. Make them trigger when a demon walks over. Then power down. Covert ops, stake-out."

"Well done. We meet in the center, the Gotham Botanical Gardens."

He nodded, and then they went their separate ways.

With the Speed of Mercury, he reached his first location. Taking out his first demon-repelling ward, he placed it on the ground and whispered, " Megethýno . Exafanízomai ." And before his very eyes, the first ward grew to twice its size and shimmered once before vanishing. One big invisible ward, done. 19 more to go.

Once the last one was down, Captain Marvel made a beeline straight to the center of the park. Jason was in charge of warding the interior of the main botanical garden that was smack dab in the middle of it all. Leaving the door ajar, he glanced into the construct bathed in moonlight.

"Jason?" he called softly. Gosh, how he wished he had Superman's super hearing right now. Taking a couple steps into the glass construct, he was hit with the all too familiar smell of sulfur. Something wasn't right, Etrigan wasn't due until the confrontation! Dashing through the rows of plants, he finally heard a faint voice at the end of an all too familiar chant.

"- emon, Etrigan! " A column of flames lit the dark area up and Captain Marvel sped towards the dispersing flames, revealing the demon, bent on the ground, cradling his head.

"Etrigan?"

Long strands of saliva trickled down his chin as he tried to stand up, but stumbled and fell.

"Etrigan!"

Moving quickly, he lifted the demon up, who snarled at the sudden movement. Gods, is it already too la-

"What are you doing here?" the demon hissed, spittle spraying onto the Captain's chest. "Don't you have a job to finish?"

"Well, I did it already!"

"Clearly not. I'm fine. Just a migraine from Blood," he blinked and squinted before giving the Captain a strong push. "Get going already!"

No room for objection. Dashing out, another soundless bolt of lightning, and Billy Batson came running back inside, back to Etrigan's side.

He was just, sitting there on the ground, surrounded by charred and some plants burning still, eyes closed. Billy sat down next to the hellbeast and reached a hand out to the demon, placing it gently on one of his massive arms. He didn't flinch even the slightest.

"Etrigan, are you really okay?" No point in asking if they should call it off. Billy just knew that it was over if their enemy was a no show. Over for Jason and Etrigan, that is.

Silence, only the labored breathing from the demon. Just as Billy was about to try again, to make sure his friend was alright, Etrigan opened his mouth.

"Blood is inferior. Weak. Useless, so to speak."

"Huh?"

"Find it difficult to disagree? Look where blood got me. A father that wanted my hide, a brother I've left to rot, and a brother that cursed my soul for eternity. Left you in the world all alone as well. Of the Blood, then? Forever made to bear the burden of his failed paternity."

A raspy, feeble chuckle unbefitting the demon escaped his lips as his eyes cracked open. "And yet, Blood is so very strong. Not in body, but in mind. So much stronger than I could ever hope to be. So, utterly refined. And now, Blood falls, falters, and fumbles. Left me with thoughts all jumbled."

Nothing was making sense anymore. What the heck was he talking about? Etrigan stood up and stretched, popping some of his joints as he rolled his neck.

"Yet, despite it all, this is the hand fate has bestowed. Despite it all, there's no one I'd rather be, you know?"

What? Billy was really lost and Etrigan was sniggering now. What's so funny?

"You needn't think much longer about it. The time of reckoning is close at hand. It'll happen tonight alright, not a moment sooner or later. And I fear, I won't be of much use, and neither will Jason."

"What? Why not? What do you mean by that?"

"All you need to know is that, I'm sorry. For everything. For what has occurred, and what is to come. We dragged you into all this, and soon, you'll be paying the price."

"Etrigan, come on, don't talk like that! You're scaring me!"

A huge hand came down and ruffled his hair. Etrigan then gave a smile, "Jason made sure to ward the place properly before hiding inside; I made sure of it as well. Now, we wait. Tell me the second you feel something. I need some time alone."

And then, he walked off into the darkness where the moonlight did not shine onto, leaving Billy utterly bewildered and confused.

Gods, why did that smile look so much like Jason's?

The minutes trickled by, and Billy was still going over the cryptic messages that Etrigan had imparted on him. Blood is weak, but then he said Blood is strong? What the heck? Then there was all that talk of family, and strength, and Gods, did he apologize to him? How sincere was that supposed to be? He mindlessly toyed with a small fern that was spared by the hellfire from the transformation.

It can't be much longer, right? Etrigan's right almost all the time, even more so than Jason.

His only choice was to trust in the plan right now, but it's kinda already derailed with, well, Etrigan's situation. The merge was happening much sooner than what they had expected. He didn't think it would happen so fast. Just a couple days ago, Jason was as normal as he could be. Maybe a little thinner and sleep-deprived than the version in his memories, but still. Now? Apparently it was hurting him so much that he had to retreat into his mind, leaving the demon out. What was it, uh, ego? Jason said that the demon had a stronger ego and willpower, so maybe he'll be fine? But he definitely did not look fine or act fine or talk as though he were fine!

Gods. This is all too much. He really got himself into something big. And to think that he could've chosen to ignore it all and be safe in Fawcett or something. But could he live with himself? Could he keep hero-ing with a straight face if he had found out what had happened to Jason and Etrigan if he chose to turn a blind eye? That he knew something was going on and chose not to budge an inch to help? Gods. Why him. Why did it have to be hi-

A sudden surge of magic not unlike the one he felt three days ago, when he saw the villain for the first time. He's here. "Etrigan? He's here. I feel him; he's opened the last hotspot."

A faraway grunt and the demon landed next to the boy with expert precision. "Good. Now we wait. Trigger the barrier as soon as the bastard completely enters. Don't let him escape."

Billy nodded. It's time.

"Shazam!" he called to the heavens.

The heavens did not respond.

Huh?

"What? Billy, what is going on?" The demon shared his sentiments.

Again, he called out, "SHAZAM!" Still nothing.

Oh no. Oh no no no. Not now. Nothing like this has ever happened. Why now?

Oh Gods, he felt it. "Etrigan! The demon's inside! What should I do!"

"Activate them right now! I'll hold our foe off until you figure out what's wrong with your word!"

Close to hyperventilating, Billy closed his eyes and willed his anti-demon wards to take effect. Whether they worked or not with him in this state, he could only pray.

"Behind me, within my cape. Hide until you can fight at my side!" Clinging onto his arm in fear of the approaching threat, Billy ducked underneath the demon's long cape.

They waited. And waited.

Click.

Clack.

Click.

Clack.

The unmistakable sound of high heels came from afar and slowly, and ever so slowly, filled the room. High heels? Oh Gods, he thought the cloaked figure was a man? But then, he never did see their face clearly; when did he start thinking it was a man? But what if it was just a man wearing something like high hee-

"Oh? I wasn't expecting to see you here. What a pleasant, pleasant surprise." Chills ran down the boy's spine. That sickening sweet voice that could only belong to one person. Why didn't he think of her? Why?

"Salutations, Etrigan. What brings you here during the devil's hour?"

May the Gods help us.

It's Blaze.

Holding his breath, Billy gripped even more firmly than ever on the demon's cape as Blaze now stood facing Etrigan. She was right there, an arm's length away from powerless Billy Batson.

One of The Wizard's hellspawn children.

It all made sense now.

"Greetings, my dear Lady Blaze. Etrigan has to say, you are an ungrateful witc-"

Slap! Right across his left cheek.

"You dare interrupt Etrigan, you bloody bit-"

Slap! Now his right cheek. The demon began to growl.

"I can do this all day, my faithful pet. But I must say, I really wasn't expecting to see you here. I was expecting, well, another."

"Care to include me in your game of hide and seek? I'll overlook what you've done to my cheeks."

"No. I don't think I will. After all, I know that my prize is here, isn't it." Oh no. A statement. Etrigan nudged a little further away from the demoness, but she just smiled, yellow eyes glowing dimly in the moonlit room.

"As a matter of fact, I believe you know exactly where it is. How you came to know of all this, I know not, but I'm a kind lady. You know me, and I know you. So, I'm assuming you would like to barter? Something for the boy."

Barter? A trade?

"A barter, you say. You've caught my attention. But the value of yours, it has to be beyond comprehension."

"Well, I just so happen to have something that you would love to get your little claws on. Something that just became obsolete to me not too long ago." She produced something out of thin air in a small burst of golden flames, and Billy couldn't see what from the position he was in. "A remnant of the past, but of great importance to you, no? For the boy, this could be all yours."

He felt Etrigan seize up. No, he can't seriously be considering it, could he? After everything? He couldn't do this to him.

Could he?

And then he got his answer as he was roughly grabbed by the neck and dragged out of the cape.

Thrust before the yellow piercing eyes of Blaze, was little Billy Batson.

Chapter Text

"Traitor! How could you! What have you done, Etrigan!"

Claws curling over the tattered cover of the book, Etrigan cackled maniacally and bellowed for the world to hear, "What have I done? What have I done, you ask? You should be thanking me, Jason Blood! In my hands, is the book of spells our dearly hated jailer has left behind! The Eternity Book! And with it, we can finally be free! Finally avert our fate!"

"But the boy! Billy!"

"To Hell with the brat! Don't you see, Blood? With this, there's nothing to fear; we can go our separate ways! Freedom, Jason Blood! Freedom! And it's right here in these very pages!"

"You've gone mad! Etrigan, snap out of i-''

"I take it that you're pleased with my offering, Etrigan?"

Whipping around, the demon nodded enthusiastically, "I assume you are as well, Blaze," fully ignoring the struggling boy within her grasp and the screams of protest reverberating in his head.

"Etrigan, please! Help me!"

"I'm sorry, little one," the words rolled off his tongue with practiced ease. "But plans have changed. This, this is my ticket out, boy!"

"You have sunken to a new low, you monster!"

Blaze slammed the boy onto the ground, pressing his face into the dirt. 

Etrigan slammed the book onto the ground, pressing its spine into the dirt.

"Etrigan, please!"

The demoness savored it and just continued to smile. 

The demon ignored it and just continued to laugh.

"You scream and shout, for what? Don't you see, this is our only salvation, Blood! Before our time is out, we're going to find it on these yellowed pages!" He cracked the tome open and began to leaf through its pages feverishly.

So close, he could taste it!

Billy whimpered as he was held onto the ground with a grip unbecoming of someone of Blaze's physique. Fingers digging into the dirt, he tried once more,

"SHAZA-"

"Do stop screaming, you're hurting my ears. Calling for my dear father won't save you now. The perfect trap has been laid, just for you, after all."

For him? This was all a trap for him?

"Oh yes," she whispered, tenderness belying her spiteful nature, "everything was for this day. It wasn't easy, you know. Crafting a spell of this magnitude, spanning so many different genres and systems. But, I suppose talent runs in the family. One that you forcefully injected yourself into."

Her grip suddenly loosened, but before Billy could scramble away, she slammed her heel down on his knee, and just his luck, it was his right. Bones that had yet to fully heal cracked and splintered once more, and Billy screamed in anguish, escape momentarily forgotten. Through tears, he saw golden lines emerging from the ground with a wave of her hand and bound all four of his limbs to the ground. And the final cherry on top of the cake? One more line wrapped around his mouth. A gag.

She began to pace around the struggling boy, a vile sneer crossing her beautiful face, "Still not giving up, little usurper? I must say, I do wish to see how much longer you can resist. You always were like this, squirming around like a worm despite the adversities you face." Leaning down, Blaze took the boy's face into her hand and dug her claws into his face.

Billy's face contorted with pain as he could feel his hot blood trickling down his neck. "Yes. That's a better expression. Much better. One that I would not bother seeing for the rest of eternity. But," she let go of him, "we can save that for later. I have a ritual to finish."

Waving her hands in the air, golden words began to materialize, to rearrange, weaving complex spells that Billy couldn't ever hope to decipher. "The half-breed's spell book was surprisingly aligned with what I aimed to achieve. Tapping into ley lines of all things and using demonic runes as a buffer? Only Merlin could possibly dream of such spells, but alas, he's been gone for centuries. A little twist here and there, and my father's power will finally be mine. Be grateful, Billy Batson, for you are to see the coming of a new queen!"

It has to be in here, it has to be! He continued to flip frantically through the yellowed pages of the Eternity Book. Eyes skimming through each page, he-

Please, just stop this. Our mind is defiled.

No, no! It's not too late! The devil's hour, she said. How could he have possibly missed this? He's slipping, alright. But it's for an entire hour, so there's still some time left before the peak! There's still hope for separa-

But there won't be for the child.

He clawed at his own face, raking fresh lines of blood which dripped down onto the book, wounds almost immediately zipping shut. He can't let up. He refuses to lose himself. He can't, not him.

He couldn't remember his name.

He couldn't remember who he was.

It's already over. We've already lost ourselves when we gave up the bo-

Shut up. Shut up. None of that matters anymore. He couldn't give up now. Not when he's so close. Not now.

Not for anyone.

Not for the boy.

" Caught now, imprisoned by this land, "

The golden sigils began to swirl in the air, and Billy watched in horror as the air began to hum and glow with a familiar sensation. The Wizard's magic.

" The usurper's power, now close at hand. "

 The ground began to vibrate and shake the second she uttered the words. Strands of lightning began to manifest, drawing together.

" As rightful ruler, this world I shall raze, "

The shaking became unbearable as Blaze's voice rose over the crackling power.

" Kneel before me, the heir, Lady Blaze! "

The lightning coalesced into a singular ball of light hanging in the air.

Blaze's arms outstretched as though to grasp onto the physical manifestation of SHAZAM. Now basked in its glow, Blaze's sneer melted away and was now replaced with nothing but awe as she stood before her father's power which descended into her waiting palms.

"Finally! Finally, after all these centuries, it's finally mine! Rejoice, mortal! As you now will bear witness to the start of a new era, the era of Lady Blaze!"

Throwing her head upwards to the heavens, to the Gods that denied her of her birthright, she screeched, "SHAZ-"

Head thrumming, mind pulsating, his frenzied search slowly lost steam. Each flip of the page was agonizing, each sentence he looked at burned his addled judgment. Was it truly too late? He couldn't even think straight anymore. Could he even think anymore? He must be able to.

He took great pride in his intellect and knowledge of all things occult amassed over the centuries, after all.

But the inscriptions on each page were beginning to blur together. The work of a spell? Never heard of one that could do such a thing, or has he? That didn't matter, not any more, at least. He clutched onto the margin of the page and made to flip. Just a couple more pages left. He had to find it. He had to.

The rumbling is making it so difficult. Why does everything have to go against his wishes? All he wants to do is to, to what, again? It's getting hard to remember.

Remember what? What was he supposed to remember?

His grip tightened and the page began to rip. He was forgetting something. Something important. Something that he couldn't, no, shouldn't forget.

A flash of light and then the place was now glowing steadily. He blinked once, and turned around to see what the hell was going on. What dared to distract him from his thoughts?

A tall red woman with horns was standing triumphantly, hoisting a ball of light in her hands. Her name? It was on his lips, but he just couldn't remember. His head was throbbing, neck twisting in pain as another wet slurch reached his ears from within his skull.

Marie? No, that wasn't it. Who was that, again?

The ball grew brighter and brighter, until it was difficult to stare at it. He trailed his eyes onto the floor, where a little boy was laying.

Not as bright. More tolerable.

But the boy.

The light illuminated his face.

That face was so familiar, but he couldn't put his finger on why it did. But he was someone important to him, wasn't he? He had to be, otherwise he wouldn’t be feeling, well, whatever this feeling was.

A word pushed itself to the forefront of his mind, despite all odds. A single word.

Billy.

He dropped the book in his hands, and lunged, the last lucid thought to cross his mind.

Billy couldn't believe his eyes.

Just when all hope was lost, just when Blaze was about to win and take The Wizard's power, just when she was about to finish the word, Etrigan charged into her, sinking his teeth right into her bare waist.

The demoness screamed in pain and delivered a kick that sent the demon flying back into a row of displayed plants, where he now lay splayed on the ground, one clawed hand clutching his head. Streams of blood flowed freely down from the bite mark on Blaze's slender waist, pooling down on the ground.

"You, you, insolent beast!" She snarled as she advanced towards Etrigan. "How dare you interrupt my moment! My glory! I gave you what you wanted, and this is how you repay me?"

Expecting a snappy couplet from the demon as usual, Billy flinched violently against the magical ropes when a roar ripped out of Etrigan's maw. It sounded like that of a wounded animal. It sounded like, oh Gods, oh no. Realization dawned upon him.

It was too late.

Blaze looked at Etrigan, her golden eyes cold and calculating. Clicking her tongue, an underlying rage seething beneath the surface as she commented dryly, "Well, another surprising turn of events. Have you gone mad, Etrigan? Madder than usual, that is." Gods, Blaze realized it too.

Now literally foaming at the mouth, Etrigan let out a furious howl and launched himself at the demoness once more, but she casually stepped aside, allowing the demon to fly right past her and into another row of plants.

"I wonder why that is. Perhaps because of the spell I chose to derive my plans from? Tapping into your half-brother's source of magic? That no longer matters. You showed promise. Despite your peculiar ways, you've always been a decent asset. Pity. I would've given you a high position in my court, perhaps even as a mate." She held her hand out, eldritch magic pooled in front of her palm. "But now? I have no need for a vulgar savage. Goodbye, Etrigan, and good riddance."

Now, Billy wasn't the brightest boy. He's missed way too many years of proper education to call himself smart. But clever and resourceful? That was something he could get behind. Even Jason praised him for his ability to get through the stickiest of situations. And now? This has got to be the stickiest of them all.

If the situation weren't as, unique as it were now, he would've just called down The Wizard's lightning, and boom. Everything would be done, then and there. He's kicked Blaze's and her brother's collective butts a couple times in the past, but that was then. This is now. He tried calling The Wizard's name, but the lightning was intercepted midway by Blaze somehow. Maybe all that talk of the ley lines and barriers? Billy really didn't have the energy to care about that right now.

What he did know, was that the power was right there. Like, right there, there. Just floating in the air. It was in Blaze's hand, but after Etrigan's brutal attack, it's just hanging in the middle of the room. No barrier between them, other than the stupid magic gag in his mouth. There was a feeling in his gut, that if he managed to pry the gag off and shouted "Shazam", it would all work out like how it's supposed to play out. But his arms and legs were tied to the ground with the same magical ropes. So what now?

It felt like an ironic twist of fate. They thought the mastermind behind it all had it in for Jason, but it was Billy all along. Jason and Etrigan were the innocent bystanders that have dragged him into all this, and all this time they thought it was the other way around. Now, they've gone completely berserk, reenacting their insanity that they had mentioned in passing. Even though Etrigan had betrayed him, Billy honestly couldn't fault the guy. He was this close to having his personal identity erased, and now? He came in the knick of time, to save him, and gave it all up. 

Gods. What was the point of it all? Was it all for nothing?

Blaze was taking her sweet time now, victory practically guaranteed. The magic continued to gather in her palm, and it was getting harder and harder to breathe as the air thinned. Etrigan, who was now rocking back and forth in a fetal position, grasping at his head in pain, was not going to help him anymore. So that’s what he had meant, before all this went south. But even then, he wouldn't be in a position to help, with Blaze's ire directed straight towards him.

No Etrigan, no Jason, no Captain Marvel.

He squeezed his eyes shut, waiting for the end to come. No one was here to save him. His hands clutched onto the dirt. All that preparation, for nothing. Everything he shared with Jason and Etrigan, all the bad and the good? The one person he opened up to and looked at him as himself? Was now lost in his own corrupted and perverted mind.

Tears began to bead out of his shut eyelids.

Gods, he was so useless. Failing every single time. A brand new Captain Marvel? What a joke. He couldn't save his parents back then, and now he couldn't save Jason or Etrigan. If only he could call on his lightning that's right ther-

"I've made you into a living lightning rod."

Holy moly.

No barrier between. Jason's permission. Written magic not needing magic to power. Activating runes with his mind.

Holy fucking moly.

Opening his right palm to face upwards towards the ball of lightning, he thought hard, harder than he had ever thought before.

And the ball responded, descending and disappearing into his palm.

Instantly filled with power that was so familiar and yet so dissimilar at the same time, Billy stood up, breaking his bindings with ease, and without any pain. Huh? Billy? Not Captain Marvel? He looked down at his hands. Yup, good old Billy Batson hands, except now, he was glowing just a bit. But now's not the time for that, he can worry about that later. Allowing the lightning to course through his body, he outstretched his own hands in front of him, towards Blaze's back.

She's distracted. Good. Just like how Jason and Etrigan taught him, then.

" Vrontí ."

A brilliant flash of light exploded out of his palms with greater magnitude than ever before. Gods, he's never felt this in tune with his own power. Blaze was sent flying, careening in the air, letting out a shrill shriek of agony before crashing down on the ground; her own spell completely interrupted.

Whirling to see what had just hit her, she saw the radiant boy and, "H-how? But how! You were, you were bound! You didn't, but you couldn't!"

Billy was sick of hearing her voice already.

Tapping in to the Speed of Mercury, he was in front of her in a flash.

He latched his hand onto her wrist with the Strength of Hercules, ignoring her struggles.

With the Stamina of Atlas, he withstood the weak, desperate strikes she pelted at him. She was drawing blood, but not his, her own, as she repeatedly struck him, panicking to get out of his grasp.

He opened his mouth, a single word creeping over his lips, one word that would put this disgusting creature out of her misery in an instant. The Power of Zeus supplied him with more than enough magical power to do so.

The Courage of Achilles bolstered him, giving him the mental strength to carry it out.

But the Wisdom of Solomon gently offered him another path, another way to end it all.

And the Mercy of Billy Batson won out in the end, changing the word in his mouth into three.

" Ase mas mónous ."

A column of fire exploded from underneath the demoness, opening a portal back to Hell where she belonged. Her body already half-consumed by the portal, she clung tightly onto the edge with one ragged hand, fear showing for the first time in her golden eyes.

Billy stepped on her fingers.

"Just, leave us alone."

And he lifted his worn shoe, and she plummeted down to Hell.

Chapter Text

He was seeing so, so much. Too much. Everything was in a red haze as the swirling memories of two different lives continued to clash inside.

It hurt. It burned. His very identity was being torn to pieces and stitched together. A single mind isn't supposed to have two sets of memories after all. He clawed claws? at his face, trying to reach inside it won't work , get it to stop.

Body as heavy as lead light as a feather, he gripped onto his horns and began to pull. He's not supposed to have horns, right? Why were they on his head?

Slamming an arm too large too strong down for support, he began to dry heave vomit , spilling the contents of his stomach flame sac out. It tasted bitter normal on his tongue.

His brothers at arms, Lancelot? Scapegoat? Gawain? Merlin? Wasn't that his younger brother companion betrayer?

Camelot, Hell, Belial father , Ran Va Daath mother?, it was all blurring together.

Soft ginger locks, Marie his fingers sharp nails passed through each curl. Squeals of laughter in the back as children their daughters Claire and one more ran and played by the brook River of Stygia. Their blood. His My hands.

Faintly, they he felt someone sit down next to him why? . Talking to him them?

Morax , Baytor, Kakk , Randu? Who? A name dragged itself across their my his mind, his daughters son?

Not dead , still there.

Right here.

With him.

Holding him.

He leaned into the embrace.

"Koimísou tóra."

A soft strong voice.

Everything's going to be alright.

Billy held onto his friend, managing to keep him from tearing his face completely off with his sharp claws. He may be the Champion of Magic now, but he's still no expert at magic, that's reserved for people like the person he was holding on to at this moment. Who needs a whole lot of help. Etrigan, or Jason, or whoever it was right now was asleep thanks to a quick slumbering spell, but once it wears off, there's no guarantee that he won't start mutilating himself, or even worse, others.

He clapped his cheeks and made his decision. "Akoloúthisé." A soft glowing light he's now starting to associate with himself enveloped the demon, and a single string extended from it. He wrapped it around his hand, and took off into the air, into the night, towards the direction of someone he knows will know how to help. He had to know.

Turning off the lights to the Batcave, Bruce Wayne removed his cowl. Finally. With the additional workload heaped onto him, thanks to Captain Marvel's temporary absence, he hadn't been getting much sleep. Around half past one. Alfred's going to be ecstatic and he can finally get a good night's rest for once. A loud, lazy yawn, and he made his way to the main study. Emerging from the secret door behind his clock, he smiled softly, seeing how Alfred had left a little snack for him to eat. Where would he be without him? Picking up a biscuit, he gave it a nibble, straining his ear to see if anything was going on in the manor during his time downstairs. Silence. Good, all the kids are asleep. He doesn't need more annoyances now, during his alone time. He popped the snack into his mouth without further hesitation. Delicious.

Just as he was about to sit down and relax, a reflected glint caught his eye. What? He turned around to see just what it was, and oh God, it's approaching fast! He slammed an emergency button hidden beneath the table before running outside. Just in time to find a boy emitting a soft light landing softly on the lawn, and, is that Etrigan behind him?

This boy, barely over ten, surmised Bruce, wearing a filthy red hoodie covered in dirt, was standing in front of him with Etrigan in tow. What the hell was going on? His years of experience and caution faltered when the boy ran up to him, tears in his eyes. Those blue eyes of his were burning into his own.

"Batman, sir! You have to help him, you have to help Etrigan!"

"Now, son, I don-"

"I know you're Batman, Mr. Wayne! Now's not the time for this! You need to call Zatanna, or Nabu, or anyone! Please! He needs help, right now!"

This boy knows who he is. This boy that he's never met before knows who he is and is now begging for his help. And it's not for himself, it's for Etrigan.

Jason.

"B, what's going on out here?"

"Tt. Better have a good reason for callin-"

"Who's the kid?"

"The kid? Never mind the kid, isn't that Etrigan?"

Questions and answers can wait. Since this boy knows and his children have gathered, Bruce got to work, barking orders.

"Now, hol' up, what in bloody blazes is goin' on right now, Bats?"

"Batman? What's going on? What's wrong with Etrigan?"

Doctor Fate stood silently, looking at the prone demon laying on top of the bed in the guest room, the strange boy holding onto one of his claws, sitting on top of a small stool that was prepared just for him. Zatanna and Constantine continued to hound Bruce Wayne.

Batman's cowl was the last thing on Bruce's mind right now. Everyone in the room knew who he was after all, including this boy.

Holding up a hand, Bruce silenced the two mages. He knelt to the height of the boy and asked softly, "Chil-"

"It's me, Batman. It's Captain Marvel, so you can stop talking to me like I'm just a little kid!"

Zatanna's hands shot up to her mouth as Constantine just collapsed onto the floor. Bruce processed the words in his head, mouth opening and closing, not really knowing what to say at this moment. What was he to say?

Instead, Doctor Fate placed a hand on his shoulder and gently pushed him away, his voice sonorous and grave, "Champion, what is it that you gathered us here for today?"

The boy, no, Captain Marvel, shook his head, his hands tightening around Etrigan's hand. "You all have to help him. It's Jason and Etrigan, their minds, it's all, all, fusing together! I put him to sleep for now, but he's not really sane right now? He's going to go on a rampage if we don't find a way to separate his minds!"

What the hell. What the hell is this boy saying? The nonexistent words that wanted to come out of his mouth just dispersed into the aether once more.

"Bloody hell, Blood, what the fuck have you gotten yourself in?" Constantine summed up his feelings on the matter quite succinctly. What the hell, Jason?

"I can explain everything, from top to bottom, later! But this needs to happen right now! Please, I'm begging you all! I can't lose him!"

Zatanna seemed to snap out of her daze and moved to comfort the boy, but was once again intercepted by Doctor Fate. For a brief second, Bruce could've sworn he heard Kent Nelson's shaky voice, but it was quickly covered by Nabu's taciturn tone.

"It is possible, but I would require a lot of energy."

"Take as much as you need, Nabu! I'm the fucking Champion of Magic; if I can't do that much, then I'm fucking worthless!" the boy screamed, tears running down his cheeks without any sign of restraint.

Hours went by as Doctor Fate continued to work his spell after having the boy create a ball of raw, unfiltered magic for him to utilize. Zatanna and Constantine provided as much support as they could, which in truth didn't amount to much, but it was still more than what he was doing, Bruce thought grimly to himself.

One of his oldest friends was in great peril, one that could erase his entire existence, and he could do nothing to help. Currently situated outside of the room along with Captain Marvel, Bruce gave himself the task of comforting the boy, but he seemed to have calmed down on his own accord after Doctor Fate began to work.

His small body was shivering, trembling, still shaking even after the tears had dried. Clearly, now's not the time for small talk, and the boy wanted to be seen as Captain Marvel despite everything else. But the father in Bruce wanted to comfort him, to sell him lies that he himself once received, of how everything will be alright, despite not having any grasp of what was going on behind the door.

He supposes there is an in-between.

"You know, I've known Jason since I was a teenager. Heard the stories about him before meeting him the first time." No response. Regardless. "About a treacherous knight who had been tasked with being the eternal keeper of a demon as retribution for betraying his king. Stories varied depending on where I was at the time, but the moral of them all remained the same, to beware the man of Blood and his other face, Etrigan."

Bruce leaned back, feigning relaxation and still keeping his eyes on the boy, he continued. "So you can imagine my shock when I first met him. Carefully trimmed diction, calm and poised, chivalrous and wise, he was every bit a loyal knight. I thought it was a trick at first, but the longer we spoke, the closer we became. And not once did he betray my trust and he remained a loyal friend. Etrigan is an entirely different story, however."

A small snort.

"Jason is tenacious, stubborn, an-"

"An obstinate man who thinks he has no choice but to take on the world by his lonesome," the boy added. It was what he said to the Captain several days ago, and hearing it come out of this child sent shivers down his spine. It really was the Captain.

"Yes, that he is. Which is why I'm really glad to see that you've really decided to help him to the end, Captain."

Another snort. "Help? None of this would've happened if it weren't for me. Blaze was after me, not him. She wanted my powers, not his. And look what happened. He's practically gone because of me."

"If it weren't for you, he wouldn't be here right now."

"Yeah, your point being? I know he's in this state righ-"

"What I meant to say, Captain, is that he has a fighting chance because you brought him here."

"Oh." The boy fell silent again, looking at his hands.

"I don't know what your relationship with Jason is, but I know he'll pull through. He's just that stubborn. Look at him. Fifteen hundred years and still going strong even with Etrigan crawling around inside of him."

"That's gross."

"My point is that, this? This isn't enough to take him out. The same applies to Etrigan, perhaps the only living being who can match Jason in terms of stubbornness."

"That's Etrigan, alright." A hint of fondness. So he's close to Etrigan as well.

"My only advice to you right now is to trust them. Trust that they will pull through."

The boy looked him in the eyes for the second time of the night.

"I think I'll do just that."

Chapter Text

Cracking open his eyes, the demon came to. Reflexively yawning, he stretched his arms over the soft covers. Covers? He lifted an edge and sniffed. Smelled like Bruce. Figures. He ran a hand through his hair and blinked at the sunlight spilling through the window, and sneezed. Careful to not accidentally scratch his nose with his trimmed nails, he rubbed thoughtfully.

Hair. Trimmed nails, not claws. Not a smidge of red in his vision. Holding his hand up, Etrigan looked at it, studying it for the first time since he opened his eyes. Caucasian, a little too pale for his liking, and not his usual healthy yellow. He let out a groan that took far too long to convince himself that it sounded all too wrong in his ears, and flipped the nice smelling pillow over his face.

"Good morning."

"Why the hell am I in your body, and why does it feel so right." He squirmed under the covers, mind objecting and accepting the sensations at the same time.

"Right? What part, the rest that I desperately needed, or-"

"You know exactly what I mean. I can feel you rummaging through my, no," he scrunched his face in the pillow, "our mind," he corrected.

It didn’t sound wrong.

"Really. Throwing me the control just to see how I would react. How kind."

"And you reacted exactly how I thought you would. Slowly."

"Awfully smug for someone who woke up not too long ago as well."

"Yes, but a minute sooner than you did is still rather swell."

"Hrn?

"What is i, oh. Hm. The ley lines, have they closed?"

"Appears to be so. Can't feel them."

"Nor those little hotspots. Perhaps Blaze completely expended their magic? They were unnatural, after all."

"Let's just go with that. I don't want to think about it anymore."

"Not when we've yet to fully explore, hmm? Now, before you suffocate us to death," Jason reached out and took hold once more, feeling little to no resistance from the demon. He removed the pillow, and sat up.

He has not felt this good in centuries.

"He saved us. Even after what I did."

"You were misguided, and in that moment, even I was swept up with the idea that we could have been separated. But clearly,"

"This is the lot we drew."

"Indeed. It honestly doesn't feel too bad, wouldn't you say?"

"Hn. Will take some time to get used to it."

"And thankfully, that's what we ha-" the door to his room creaked open. His eyes widened expectantly, but shrank back down to an expression of disdain when he saw who it was that entered.

"Nabu."

"Apologies for the interruption, but I don't think that is the tone you should take with the one responsible for saving your mind. But then again, why should I have expected anything out of someone like you, Blood." The door clicked shut. "And now, look at you. It took me a great deal of effort just trying to preserve your personality, but now that your minds have blended into one, you are your demon. So pardon my lack of courtesy, for I have none for a being of Chaos like you."

"Bloody rude."

Verily. So that's what happened; they had a rough idea, but to hear actual confirmation? He flexed his fingers experimentally, and Etrigan, catching his drift, took over his hands smoothly. No discomfort, and the demon moved his digits exactly how he would've done so himself, including the right middle finger pointed directly at Doctor Fate.

"Go preach your own ideals of good and evil somewhere else, Nabu. Your bias towards my other half has always prevented you from treating me normally, and clearly," Etrigan motioned at his torso with his hands, "it seems that you are capable of separating Etrigan and I from the beginning. So what the hell? Why didn't you do it?"

"A great deal of effor-"

"Don't you "a great deal of effort" me, you pompous fool. We were literally melded together, literally one singular entity, and you still managed to separate enough of us both that we can retain our own personal identities. Are you claiming that what we were before was more difficult to separate all of a sudden?"

"It still does not change the fact that I did it now."

"Well, yes, but." Ah. Good point. Etrigan rolled their eyes before taking complete control and finishing for him with, "I'm willing to bet that if it weren't for the Champion, you would have still been sitting on your arse."

A flash of disgust crossed Doctor Fate's eyes before spitting out, "Demon."

"It's The Demon; do you need a tape recorder? Get my title right, Lord of Order."

"I should have left you to rot. This conversation is over; exchanging words with scum like you is not worth the time nor trouble. You are fortunate to have the Champion's favor." A portal in the shape of a golden ankh materialized with a wave of a hand, and Doctor Fate left the room.

"Good riddance."

"Is it wise to make an ene my out of him?" Jason regained control as Etrigan turned their stiff shoulders.

"Implying that we were ever on good terms."

"I know, I know. Just wanted to affirm." He planted his feet onto the ground and rose up. Walking to the window, he basked in the sunlight.

"It feels, so good."

"It does, doesn-" the door to his room slammed open this time, and a small, red figure ran straight into him, clinging onto him as if his life depended on it.

And he returned the embrace.

"Sorry for making you worry, Billy."

And the boy began to cry once more.

"So, how're you feelin'?" Constantine nudged him with an elbow warily. He was verbally persuaded by Zatanna to get back into his guest bed, and was subsequently stared down by Bruce from getting out.

"Too soft." Shush.

"Like Hell, but in a good way," earning a small snicker from Billy. "I feel better than ever, like I'm back in my prime again."

The boy had clambered onto his bed and just sitting on his lap; he could feel the joy radiating off of hi-

"No need to be dramatic. That smile on his face is bloody infecti-"

Billy prodded him on the cheek, pouting mildly, "No fair. I wanna know how Etrigan is doing, too."

He complied by just stepping back into his mind and letting the demon take control. A live demonstration it is. He felt his lips stretch into a large grin as his right hand moved to ruffle the boy's head.

"Well, you asked, and here I am. Hope it's not too surprising, Bill-i-am!" Hearing his own voice speaking with the demon's cadence was still a little, bizarre to say the least, but watching the boy's expression change from surprise to a massive grin to match his own was well worth it.

"Holy moly! You can do this now? That's so, so, so cool!" Little hands were now attached onto his cheeks. They were so very warm. "Like, how does it work? Is Jason still there? You didn't need to say anything! And gosh, don't call me that! You were really reaching for a rhyme there."

"Patience, little one, you're o so-"

"Blah, blah, blah. Just talk normally, you big goof!" Jason let out an amused snort out of their nose.

"Killjoy." Billy giggled. Music to their ears. He fondly tousled his hair again.

"Wait, hol' up, Etty, is that you in that ol' bod there now? Since whe-"

"Of course it's him. And since now; weren't you paying attention to what I said, Mr. Constantine?"

Bloody hell, about as snippy as he is now. "Excuse me?" Nothing.

"Mist-mistah? Blimey, don't call me that, you lil' brat! N' you never tol' me you were the bloody Champion of Magic when I saw you at Blood's place! No wonder ye knew me name!"

"That's because it was a secret identity, duh."

Zatanna was starting to laugh out loud as a soft smile crept on Bruce's face as well.

"Zee!"

"I'm sorry, John, but you're quite literally losing to a child. Come now, I think we should leave them alone. And I need to take you out of here before you start shouting expletives."

They, no, just Zatanna, waved; Constantine was still sulking and muttering under his breath. They said their goodbyes and then departed.

Only Bruce and Billy left.

Bruce jerked a thumb over his shoulder towards the door, "Do you want me to leave as well? Give you two some private time?"

He leaned back into the bed, one arm draped over Billy who was completely preoccupied with just beaming at him. "Eh. Sure. But we'd like to talk to you about something as well, Bruce, after we're done with the boy."

Then Bruce nodded, and left the room, closing the door behind him.

Only Billy left.

He took a deep breath an-

"Don't. I know you're gonna apologize, but you don't really need to." Billy flopped onto their stomach and looked up at the ceiling, dropping all pretenses. It's just the three of them here now.

"Cruel one, aren't you. First you don't let me rhyme, now you don't let me apologize?"

"It's not really your fault. I'd have done the same thing if I thought my head was going to go bonkers."

He sighed. "While you do need to work on your choice of words, when did you become so wise?"

"I guess, when I literally absorbed the SHAZAM magic?"

"He what?" "You what?"

"You know, ball of lightning into my right hand and fwoosh. Magic Billy Batson." he patted himself on the stomach. "I literally have all of Captain Marvel's powers now, but I'm still me. Just like how you're still you. Different, but not really."

"Just, different."

"Yep. So, you still haven't told me how it works now."

"According to Nabu, our egos, what we each consider "ourself" with, were saved, but everything else regarding our brains melded together."

"That's really nasty."

"It is what it is. And not only that, our memories are now one large mess that still needs a lot of sorting. Jason's body, while I've seen and felt through it every single day for the past fifteen centuries, actually using it is still, quite unnatural."

"Tell me about it. I kept accidentally running too fast and kinda kicked a couple holes into the walls of this place already." He sharply rapped the boy's head once. "Hey!"

He grinned, "It's still my turn, you little rapscallion." Billy huffed and crossed his arms over his chest.

"The strangest part is that, now that we literally share one mind, every movement, they all feel like we're doing it of our own volition. Nobody's pulling each other's strings nor forcing one another to do an action." He raised Jason's hand, no, his hand into the air and looked at it, vaguely aware that Billy was looking at it as well. "Who would have thought, the freedom we both sought, could end up like this? Neither of us a cage, neither of us off stage, this feeling of absolute bliss?"

"You're rhyming again."

"Do cut me some slack, before your head I'll smack."

They just laid there. Not looking anywhere in particular. Just with each other.

Then he planted a kiss on Billy's forehead, just as promised; the boy gave an awkward squawk of protest.

"Ew, that's gross as hec-"

"Thank you, Billy. For giving me another chance. You had every right to just leave me there to fester in my own head after I betrayed you, but you didn't. I don't care if you did it for Jason alone, but now that I'm him as well, I hope we ca-"

"Nah. I did it for you too, Etrigan. After all, you were there for me when I was feeling awful about myself. You also taught me, and cared for me in your own weird way. But you know what? Both you and Jason are just hecking weird like that. Like, really weird. So, I'm used to it. And I kinda like it."

"He's too good for us." He is.

"Still, I can't believe you'd sell me out for one stupid book. It's old and stained and all sorts of grody and nasty. So," Billy held his hands in the air and, " Emfanízomai !" The Eternity Book appeared out of thin air and plopped onto the bed with them.

He jolted upright, forcing Billy to roll off his stomach and right under his elbow, and he just stared at the book.

"So, I want you to tell me just what's so important about this book that you would just throw me into Blaze's hands like that."

"But how? I thought, we thought, didn't we leave that at the Botanical Garden?"

"I mean, yeah? After Nabu started fixing you up, I went back there. Speed of Mercury was always the handiest power. I mean, Jason did put a ton of wards in the place, and my anti-demon wards were still up and running. Can't have the rest of the plants burning down because of everything we set up. I only dispelled one when I left there with you, didn't want to fry you alive and all that, but the rest were still active. So bam, bam, bam, and they're all gone. Gotham Central Park is free for demons to go to now!"

"Hm. So you brought this back along with you?"

"Yeah, and, huh? Jason? Is that you?" Without waiting for an answer, he hugged the man.

"It's nice to see you again as well, Billy. I wasn't expecting you to notice immediately."

"You guys sound really different. Like the way you talk? And the general vibes. So uh, why did Etrigan duck back inside?"

"Because he's a bloody coward. Honestly, for someone who always touted himself as a grand demon prince of Hell, he's nothing more than a braggart." A beat of silence. "Not going to refute me?"

"Curse you and your bloody morality. Making me feel "guilt" and "shame" of all things."

"Moving on, let's see if the spell exists," he cracked the book open, "the reversal spell for our affliction."

"So you still want to separate?"

"If I'm being honest? No. And now that we share our thoughts, the same goes for Etrigan as well. I suppose, what we're looking for now, is nothing more than, closure. A "The End" for our millennia and a half of feuding, sabotaging, and quite literally now, self-loathing."

Page after page, he flipped through, with Etrigan watching intently inside and Billy looking on the outside. The little oohs and aahs that slipped out of the boy's mouth as intricate magic circles and runes that were penned by Merlin himself were displayed made both the man and the demon smile. Magic that their brother had made their life a living hell with were nothing but wonders to the boy.

He reached a page that was slightly torn and awfully creased. "This is where we reached, before everything became a blur." Yes. He recalled those last moments, the searing in his mind, the torrent of memories of a life in Hell that he never led.

Then, he flipped the page.

Emblazoned at the top page after were the words "Yarva Etrigan Daemonicus" and an incantation under the guise of a stanza amidst many other notes. How, utterly, ironic. Billy let out a gasp when he presumably recognized the first word, and the man mindlessly traced his fingers over the verse. How nostalgic. Might as well give it a go, for old time's sake. He wanted to see what would happen, and it really was only a matter of time. The boy, as astute as ever, saw the expression on his face, and slowly got off the bed to stand right beside, holding the book in his hands.

Closing his violet eyes, he recited the poem from memory. Their memory.

" Change, change, o form of man " A pressure began to build up inside of him.

" Free the prince forever damned " The smell of sulfur began to spill out his mouth as his internal organs began to melt and reconstitute. His body became heavier as his entire skeletal frame became denser. Agonizing and revolting sensations respectively not too long ago; it was different now.

" Release the might from fleshy mire " Arms, legs, and torso began to broaden, thicken with strength, skin threatening to tear, but soon it also began to stretch to accommodate his increased mass.

" Boil the blood in heart of fire " Veins across his body began to bulge to the surface, his warping heart pulsing fresh blood through every nook and cranny. Hellfire wrapped around his changing form, warm and painless. Mind simply wandered between Hell and his manor in Gotham, both places he now called home.

" Gone, gone, o form of man " Jawbones, brow, and nose began to restructure, teeth remolding into fangs, ears fanning out, horns bursting out of his head. Skull now changed into a more fitting appearance.

" And rise, the demon, Etrigan! " His name tore out of his maw in triumph, and he adored every syllable of it. A large inhale. Exhale.

He opened his red eyes, taking in the room, and the boy.

Everything was still feeling, right. He was still himself. Liberation and relief washed over him as he felt something untie within his soul. Was this, no, it is exactly how Etrigan always felt whenever he took the forefront. No wonder he never wanted to revert; the power and sense of freedom that came with this form were absolutely intoxicating.

A rumbling sensation grew within his chest before it came out of his mouth as a boisterous laugh. His laugh. Deeper, gruffer, and more gravelly perhaps, but his laugh regardless. No pain, no suffering, no disorientation, no dysphoria, nothing at all during the transformation. And why would it? He was just turning into himself now. The memories necessary for utilizing this body have seamlessly integrated with their human one.

Neither of us a cage, neither of us off stage, was that what he said? "Apt description, no?" Indeed. Couldn't have put it any better.

He stretched himself across the scorched remains of the bed and looked lazily at Billy.

"Shall we continue?"

"Sheesh, that was kinda traumatizing. But, I guess I'm gonna have to get used to it, huh."

"You do." Sitting upright, he patted his lap and Billy just scrambled onto it, Eternity Book placed in the boy's tiny lap over his.

He traced his yellow finger across the words, from the first line, to the last, scrutinizing every last rune on the two pages in front of him. And then he sighed.

"Hah. Would you look at that." And why would they have thought otherwise? It was a cruel punishment after all, from a very cruel man. But he's served his time long enough.

They both had.

"What? What does it say?"

"That my unpleasant younger brother or whatever he is to me right now, fully intended this curse to be irreversible."

Billy looked at the book, and then up at him again.

"Well, guess that means you got the happiest ending possible, huh, Jason? Etrigan?"

Closing the book, he smiled at the boy.

"Yes. I suppose we did."

Chapter Text

Chaos erupted in the Watchtower when all members of the Justice League received a message from Batman simultaneously.

Captain Marvel, whose secret identity has remained, well, a secret, for so long, had his identity revealed. Billy Batson, age 12. Which meant that they had inducted a boy at the ripe age of 11 into the League. And judging by a quick search and a little math, had been a superhero since the age of eight.

An impromptu meeting consisting of the top brass of the League was called in the Hall of Justice. Their goal? To ascertain whether Captain Marvel was fit to continue his membership in the League.

The members of the chosen committee had differing opinions, made evidently clear even before the meeting officially started, exploding into a quarrel with no clear sides. Just as the argument began to rise to a crescendo, the doors to the Hall of Justice opened, and in came Billy Batson in the flesh, and escorted by, Jason Blood? Why him, when he’s not even part of the League? Batman had simply ignored any questions thrown at him, despite the fact that everyone in the meeting hall knew he was the one who arranged everything. Shouting receded to murmurs, and murmurs into silence. Everyone settled into their seats as the two individuals that had just arrived stood front and center.

Batman stood up, cleared his throat, and began to talk.

"Fellow members of the Justice League, we are gathered here today to discuss the membership of Captain Marvel. In light of his identity, we must now decide whether he should continue to stay among our ranks despite his age, or should his Justice League membership be revoked. The discussion, may now commence." He sat back down.

Almost as if on cue, Wonder Woman stood up, rage behind her eyes. "The mere fact that the boy lied to us all should be enough to come to a verdict. Additionally to his lies, no child should ever be sent onto the battlefield, whether with my father's blessings or not."

Flash immediately cut in, "You say that knowing full well that you were literally trained to be a warrior since you were a kid. Nothing more than a hypocrite."

"That is different! I am an Amazonian and a proud warrior of Themyscira, not an, an impoverished child!"

"Yeah, but this so-called "impoverished child" has the powers of a bazillion gods. Amazonian or not, he can hold his ground about as well or even better than we can, let alone any other 12-year-old kid could ever hope to," countered Green Arrow.

"Uh, I'm really flattered that I was invited into this meeting," interjected Plastic Man, "but I don't really think it's that big a deal? Sure it's weird sending a little boy up against the freaks we usually fight, but it's not as if he's, you know, a kid when he's putting up his dukes. Besides, I was literally a criminal before all this, and you guys gave me the A-OK? And sidekicks, hello?" He stretched his arm and pointed at Flash, Green Arrow, Aquaman, and Batman at the same time. "You guys all have teen sidekicks or mini versions of yourselves! And now Captain Marvel's a problem?"

"No offense, Plas, but we're the ones on Cap's side here."

"Yeah, and don't you remember how Diana glared at Spooky's little birds and my Roy when they first started?"

"Oh. Huh, would you look at that. Wait," his head swiveled dramatically towards Batman, "Bats? You're on our side?"

"I'd be a hypocrite if I wasn't."

Wonder Woman huffed and sat back down, throwing a sour look towards the Bat.

Superman slowly raised his hand and stood up. "Who he is as an individual, I can overlook. We are all entitled to our secret identities. However, hiding the fact that he is a minor while pretending to be an adult? That, I cannot just simply brush to the side. Children are supposed to be protected by adults, and while yes, we do occasionally stumble and face hardships, these responsibilities are not ones that should be left onto the shoulders of our children to carry. Even I abstained from heroics until I was of age. I cannot possibly imagine the worry your parents must go through when they-"

"Uh, Superman, sir? Sorry to interrupt, but, uh." Billy suddenly piped up for the first time since he had arrived.

Surprised, Superman blinked. "Yes, Captain?"

"My parents are dead. Sorry. I guess I should've said that, huh. Really, really sorry about that." Jason covered his face with his left hand and dragged it down.

Silence, and then everything erupted.

"You're a fucking orphan?"

"Language, Hal!"

"Holy shit, I'm so sorry, kid!"

"God, and you put up with all my questions about your family?"

"You kept this from us, Batman!"

"Quiet down, all of you. Superman still has the floor." Batman's voice cut clearly through, hushing the other heroes.

Superman, still a little shaken, nodded gratefully towards Batman before continuing. "I'm sorry to hear that, and about my inconsiderate words."

Billy waved dismissively in the air, "Nah, it's really alright, Superman. They've been gone for a long time. I've been on my own on the streets for around five years already and I'm like, a hundred percent okay with keeping it going. It's been working out pretty nicely."

Whispers between heroes started up again before someone cleared their throat, not Batman this time, but rather, Jason Blood. Billy looked up at his companion, clearly surprised by the sudden utterance.

"Ah, a little amendment to your statement is all."

"Huh?"

"I apologize for going behind your back for this, but hm, how should I put it."

"You know I don't like it when you get all weird like this."

"I know, I know, but it really is, difficult to put into words."

The boy puffed up his cheeks.

"Oh, don't look at me like that. It's jus-"

"Blood. Catch." Batman tossed a small file of papers over to the man, who caught it in one swift motion.

He leafed through the documents and, "Aha! You managed to do it in record time, Batman! As expected of someone as experienced as you are in the matter."

"Hmph. Just tell him already, you fossil."

The other heroes were just as bewildered as the child standing in the middle.

"Uh, say what? What are you holding onto, Jason?"

"Why, your adoption papers, of course. If I'm not mistaken after a quick glance, all we need is your signature, and then you'll legally be my son from that moment onwards."

Nobody said a word when Billy just screeched, "What? Wait! I never said? Huh? Hold on, I never agree-"

Jason's firm right hand covered the boy's mouth before he could get another word out. "I do recall mentioning how your presence is forever welcome in my abode. 'Tis honestly not every day that such a grand opportunity is presented or bestowed. The deeds you've done for both my halves will never be forgotten, so do allow us to do what we've wanted, which is to spoil you rotten. What say ye, Billy?" His enunciation was suddenly rhythmic and drawn out, body language purposefully flamboyant, unlike the direct clear cut tone he was using and the stiff posture he usually carried himself with, including just moments before.

"That last rhyme? Awful. Absolutely awful."

"And you're awfully picky as of late. I'd like to see you do better, you little scoundrel." Rolling up the papers in his hand, he gave the boy a light tap on the head.

"Yeah, you know what? I'll take you on." He took a deep breath and,

"Asking me to sign on the line is super lame, but I'll do it if you show me how to write my name! Yeah! How's that for a rhyme!"

Jason let out a loud guffaw of a laugh, one that completely shattered the Justice League's image of him being some mysterious sorcerer infamous for being stoic and aloof, and picked up the boy into a tight embrace. "Not bad for your first rhyme! I'll take the loss this time!"

Batman cleared his throat once more as the hubbub died down. A temporary recess was called as all the members in the room, including Wonder Woman, rushed forward to congratulate the new father-son pair. Everything went back to how the meeting initially started as, except with a lot more grins in the room, and Billy was now riding on top of his father's shoulders.

"Superman, I do believe you still haven't finished your piece."

The man of steel was now melting from embarrassment, having been cut off twice. "Erm, yes, as I was saying. Uh."

"You were in the middle of apologizing to the Captain, Big Blue!" hooted Flash.

"Oh, erm yes. That. Ahem. What I wanted to say is that, despite it all and the fact that Mr. Blood seems alright with you working in the League, you are still young and inexperienced. You may have your enhanced hero form," Billy opened his mouth as if he wanted to add something, but Jason gave him a light squeeze on his thigh and he closed his mouth. Superman decided to ignore that and continued. "But inside, you are still a vulnerable child. I would be more than glad to continue working with you here in the Justice League after you are of age, but that is only my opinion and it certainly does not reflect everyone's thoughts. That is all." He sat back down.

"Are there any more individuals who would like to have their opinions heard?" Indistinct chatter, then nothing. No hands were raised. "Then now, we would like to hear Captain Marvel's opinion. Captain, you have the floor."

"Firstly, I would like to apologize for hiding this from you all. I was honestly terrified, scared that you would all just look at me like I'm just another ratty little kid who was way in over his head with way too much power in his hands. I was frightened that once you all found out about the truth, that you would all despise me for lying and ultimately leave me all alone like how everyone did to me in the past."

"But now? I think I'm going to be alright." Some of the more observant heroes noticed Jason giving Billy's thigh another small squeeze. "I have someone who cares about me just about as much as I care about them, and I now know that you all are truly friends that have my back, who are still willing to laugh alongside me instead of at me even after knowing who I really am."

"Even if you all decide that I'm ultimately not fit for the Justice League, I'm not going to be sad or angry. I mean, I kinda had it coming and I knew it was wrong, which was why I was hiding the fact that I was a kid in the first place. So even if it really comes to that, I won't stop being a hero in my own city, and I certainly won't stop helping others. No point in feeling sorry for myself. The Wizard who chose me picked me out of all people for a reason, and whatever it was, I don't plan on letting him down."

"If you're gonna treat me or fuss over me like I'm a kid when I'm clearly more than just that, then please, don't vote for me to stay. I know what I'm capable of doing, and I'm not interested in working with people who refuse to rely on me just because I'm too young. I won't hold it against you either, because I'll just keep doing good and being good, until the day I get to join the League again and win back your trust."

"And that's all I've got to say. Thank you all for your time."

The results came in an hour after Billy and Jason departed the Watchtower.

Not all were in favor, as expected, but the majority agreed to let him stay in the League.

And Billy Batson, under the glamour of Captain Marvel, showed up in the Watchtower the following day, wearing the brightest smile they've ever seen.