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Provide a full summary of the comic book.

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Path of the Warlord
Some time ago in Japan, on a bridge fifty miles west of Tokyo – his name is Logan. Holding a pistol and a long jacket and jeans, Logan thinks to himself that he plans on being the best at what he does but sometimes it ain’t easy. In the espionage business, the enemy’s always tryin’ ta sneak up on ya. But if ya have an animal-sharp sense o’ smell like he does, that’s darn near impossible. Like tonight.
As he faces off against a number of assassins who currently have a man and a young lady ensnared in a net, Logan thinks to himself that this operation was supposed to be a cakewalk. Or at least that’s what Chang told him. He has a habit of misrepresentin’ the truth sometimes. He had hooked up with him after the war when he was lookin’ for some quick an’ easy bucks, lookin’ to see the world an’ make a name for himself. Chang works for Landau, Luckman an’ Lake. It’s a real mysterious group that specializes in all kinds o’ shady stuff an’ said they could offer him exactly what he was lookin’ for.
Exotic locales, interestin’ people an’ good benefits. What a crock! The man in the suit, presently accessorized with the net is some sort of scientist. He an’ his daughter want in with Landau, Luckman an’ Lake. Why he doesn’t know, an’ he don’t really care. His job was a meet an’ greet. Arrange transportation and security. No one, not even Chang, knew where he was meetin’ Dr. Carling and his daughter. He handled it all by himself. Now he’s up against a half-dozen classically-trained assassins who want nothing more than to make his life tougher than he wants it to be.
Only two men in all the world could’ve set this all up. One of them, Chang, he counts among the few friends he has in this life. The other, he’s been looking to take out of the game for a long time now. If things go right, he’ll get his chance. If not, he’ll be staring down the sight of a gun pointed at Chang. After taking out one of the assassins with his gun, another comes up behind him and grabs him in a bear-hug. When he does, Logan drops the gun and loses most of the air in his lungs. He recognizes that the guy holding him is built like an ape and that his ribs are startin’ to go. He can’t reach the gun. That’s not a problem though, he’s always been more partial to blades himself. With that, Logan grabs two knifes, one in each hand.
A short time later, one block behind the glaring lights of the Ginza Strip, Logan walks along. While he does, he senses that somethin’ ain’t right, he can feel it in his bones. Landau, Luckman an’ Lake always have a guard o’ some sort posted out front. Where is he? Just then, Chang calls out to Logan from the shadows. Logan tells him that he better have some answers for him or they are goin’ to be doin’ the two-bladed tango. Chang informs him that it was not him. An attempt was made on his life as well, less than a half an hour ago. Kani was on guard duty, he is with his ancestors now. It would be best if they sought shelter away from prying eyes and wait for the back-up he has requested.
Slamming Chang up against the wall, Logan angrily tells him that’s not good enough. He wants answers. Who took Carling, what do they want with him? Chang replies that he doesn’t need to know that. When Logan asks why, Chang replies that he cannot tell him. Holding the bloody knives to Chang’s face, Logan informs him that he’ll find him on his own. He ain’t a half-bad tracker; it’s one of the things they pay him for. As Logan begins to storm off, Chang sighs and calls out to Logan that he’s going to get himself killed someday and then tells him that it was Kimora, he was behind it all. He’ll be waiting for him. After Logan replies that he hopes so, Chang says to him that he is reckless and that he is rushing into something he can’t comprehend.
Elsewhere, Kimora, wearing samurai armor, continues to torture Dr. Carling. He tells him that he admires him. The years of their association have been unkind. Carling’s body grows weak, yet his will remains fierce. But time, as ever, grows short. Grant himself release from this pain and give him, Kimora, what he has sought for so long. Weakly, Carling defies him and tells him that he will not give him the device. No amount of torture will cause him to betray his world. Kimora replies that he believes he will. His daughter, Rose, is a special one. Hand over the mechanism and he will allow her to live. Carling again says no, not ever for his Rose. He curses the day he opened the doorway between their worlds. Kimora states but he did. And he will have his invention, the means to return to his world and seize others.
Just then, Kimora is shocked to hear two of his perimeter guards falling dead to the floor. Pulling out his sword, Kimora knows who did this – Logan. Leaping at him, Logan, holding his knives, tells Kimora that it’s been a long time since Kyoto. He’s been kickin’ himself for not killin’ him when he had the chance. Cutting Carling down from his bonds, Logan tells him to make himself comfortable ‘cause he’s in for a treat.
Picking himself up off the ground, Kimora tells Logan that he could not kill him in Kyoto. Logan states that maybe he can remedy that now and charges towards Kimora. Kicking Logan violently in the gut, which causes him to drop his knives, Kimora tells him no, he cannot. Delivering another kick to Logan, Kimora says to Logan that the old man is a greater challenge than he is. He has honor. He, Logan, is but a beast in a man’s clothing, he is nothing.
Just then, Logan grabs Kimora’s kicking leg and slams him into a nearby wall. Logan proceeds to tell him that he ain’t the one lordin’ over a helpless prisoner. If you ask him that’s a sign o’ weakness, not strength. Grabbing Logan by the throat, Kimora slams Logan to the ground and tells him that he is a small man, in mind as well as stature for the universe is awash in mysteries far, far beyond the scope of his vision. He knows only what his Landau, Luckman and Lake masters wish him to know and they wish him to know nothing of Kimora. For if he did, fear would paralyze him. He does not seek economic reward, or the realization of ideological beliefs which others on this world are so enthralled with. He seeks to know, to understand, to conquer! To think that he once saw in him a worthy adversary. Now he sees only a corpse.
Just then, Carling comes up behind Kimora and slashes him with a sword, killing him. With his dying words, Kimora remarks that this cannot be. Carling tells him that it is and orders Logan to stand back so can send the butcher back to the pits of hell from which he emerged. He then tells Logan that if he was wise, he will forget all that he has said. Believe them to be nothing more than the ravings of a madman. Forget it and live.
Years later, in the high mountains of Japan, the place is called Jasmine Falls. The sweet scent of the flower for which it is named hangs thick in the air, overwhelming Logan’s heightened senses. Combined with the roaring of the falls, it is a place in which he can push away the turmoil in his mind, the roar that grows more insistent day by day, and find a deep sense of tranquility. But meditation does not mean one loses all connection with the rest of the world, just the opposite.
As Logan lets the water rush over him, the attack comes quickly from an assailant. But Logan’s parry is just as quick as is his counter. The fine edge of the sword passes through his opponent’s gi (training uniform) as if it were not there. A crimson stain of blood signals an end to the contest. Bowing his head in shame, Logan apologizes to Miyagi. As he hangs his head in disgrace his opponent, the man who has been his sparring partner and friend for the past five years retreats from the field.
Suddenly, the acrid scent of strong tobacco smoke pierces the sweet jasmine curtain. It is a scent Logan knows well, representing a life he has sought to leave far behind – Chang. As Logan begins to walk through the woods wearing his white gi, Chang says to him come on, is this any way to greet an old friend. Logan informs him that he’s out of the game, he’s wasting his time. Chang replies that he knows and states that after the operation in Tokyo, after he just disappeared on them without a word, he has been concerned for his well-being. Logan again tells him that he’s out of it. When Chang asks even if it’s about Kimora, Logan says Kimora is dead. After Chang asks what if he wasn’t, Logan asks him doesn’t he get it. He’s found somethin’ there, somethin’ he needs. So no, he’s not interested. Chang replies that he thinks he is.
A short time later, Logan’s sensei smacks him across the face. He tells him that the drawing of Miyagi’s blood shows he lacks control. It is his greatest weakness and his greatest failing as a teacher. At that moment, Logan’s sensei takes his katana from him, gives him a bokken, and tells him that is all he allows him to use. A wooden blade with which a child learns sword moves. He then tells Logan that a beast sleeps within him. And until he learns to master it, he must see to it that the beast has no claws. Bowing his head, Logan tells him “hai, sensei.” The sensei orders Logan to leave him now, he has much to ponder, as does he, he tells Logan.
After watching what has occurred, Chang mentions that it appears to him that Logan has some free time. If he is ready to come back to the game, he’s sure Kimora would love to see him again. Logan sternly orders Chang to talk to him, no more riddles. Chang informs Logan that it is simple. Kimora is alive, he is back, and he has taken Doctor Carling. Logan asks how, he saw what Carling did ta him. No way he could have survived. Chang says that he, of all people, should know there are men who are quite adept at cheating death. He was told all he needed to know at the time.
When Logan asks an’ now, Chang tells him that now he needs him to help retrieve Doctor Carling so he can know more. Logan states that he never told him what Kimora wanted with Carling in the first place. Is he going to tell him? Chang says not yet. He knows he would not come there if he felt there was another who could do this, he asks him as a friend. Sighing, Logan says this better be good and asks if he is at least going to let him know where they’re headed. Chang tells him that he wouldn’t believe him if he told him. Chang then asks Logan if he’s back in. Logan informs him for now.
The next day, Logan and Chang are standing inside a large room, next to a gigantic round structure, and being outfitted with machinery. Looking around, Logan mentions to Chang that he was right, he wouldn’t have believed him. Looks like Landau, Luckman an’ Lake have expanded a little. Chang tells him that they try to keep up with current trends. Interdimensional operations is where the future lies.
Logan asks “interdimensional?” He then asks what this is really about. What about Carling an’ Kimora? Chang says this is about Kimora. The technology that surrounds him represents the gravest danger this world has ever faced. He tells Logan that he’s been a soldier, he knows how difficult it is to face an enemy on two sides, to fight a war on two fronts. They have no idea how many worlds exist beyond their own, and the one they are aware of is bent on conquest. Imagine, then, fighting a war on a hundred fronts, battling foes who can appear anywhere, at any time. Someone has to monitor these doorways between worlds. Logan says that he means guard an’ exploit it. Chang replies perhaps, but would he rather a government be in possession of this marvel.
As Logan and Chang enter the small metal shuttle parked near them, Logan replies point taken and asks about Kimora. Chang informs him that Carling is the architect of all this wondrous machinery, which allows the creation of dimensional gateways. Though others have long postulated the existence of other dimensions, and sought to find them, only Carling succeeded.
Years ago, before he came to their organization, Doctor Carling completed his first passage to another realm. As the shuttle takes off, Chang adds that Carling went to Kimora’s realm, a place where he rules unopposed and has apparently done so for a long, long time. Logan asks that he’s sayin’ Kimora’s not even from this planet? But they know his background, what he’s responsible for. Chang says they know of his actions over a span of years, all other accounts are whispers, rumors, really. When the shuttle lands on top of the round metal structure, Logan tells Chang to keep goin’.
Chang informs him that Carling spent years in the other dimension. He met a woman, fell in love, married, and soon Rose was born. All the while he continued his interdimensional experimentation. But it was not long before his work came to the attention of Kimora. He was intent on having Carling’s technology for his own and using it to extend his reign to other dimensions. Carling resisted, but Kimora is not a man who takes no for an answer. His wife killed by Kimora, Carling was forced to flee with Rose back through a rift back to their own dimension. One which Kimora was able to slip through before it fully closed. Kimora was stunned by his first interdimensional passage, and Carling was able to escape him but Kimora pursued him through the years, determined to acquire the technology to open a passage between their dimensions. Eventually, the doctor realized his only option was to seek protection and for such he turned to them.
As they exit the shuttle and enter into a holding area, Logan asks that is where he came in on the Tokyo op. Chang tells him that he can assure him that they had no idea that the operation has been compromised. Putting on his goggle, Logan asks how exactly Kimora escaped after he “died.” Is he tellin’ him he just picked up his head an’ strolled out? Chang responds they are unsure. After he disappeared, they discovered, a pinhole, if he will, a rift so small that it was virtually undetectable. He has been able to move through this port, although it is too small and unstable to allow large-scale traveling. For that, he still needs Carling.
Logan asks why now. Why couldn’t he tell him all o’ this before back in Tokyo? Chang replies that the world is on the cusp of great change, a time of certain strife. This event, this discovery, is part of that. There must be men and women, small though their number may be who are at the forefront of this epoch, prepared to deal with each threat, each explosive revelation, as it happens. He then asks Logan to forgive him, but he feared he was not ready for such knowledge. His sensei still believes him unready, but the time is at hand. He will be forced to confront what rages within him. If he fails, all will be lost. With the pull of a lever, the two men fall with a blinding flash through a tear in the very fabric of reality and are swallowed by the void inside the metal “bubble.”
Very much elsewhere, this is the place where Logan and Chang journey. There, Kimora has ruled for many lifetimes. Even in his self-imposed exile on Earth, his iron-fisted rule held steady. Now that he has returned home, a world weeps. Kimora tells the man standing before him, Oracle, to tell him what has happened while he was gone and of things yet to come. Oracle replies that their world is as he left it. But of the future, he sees two off-worlders who oppose his rule. One is a man with fire in his reigns, and he would see him, Kimora, dead. Kimora says “Logan.” How fascinating will be his baptism to the world’s of beyond and how sad he is unaware that he is already too late thanks to him. Oracle informs him that he will still fight but Kimora says he will fail. As he, and all others, have failed before. He cannot die, for this world and many others are his destiny!
Meanwhile, two journeyers emerge from nowhere into the heart of an alien landscape. Once they land with a thump on a forest floor, Chang, holding a handgun asks Logan if he is well, he seems… Logan informs him it’s the scents, the smell o’ the wild. Usually, there’s nothin’ more familiar ta him but this place, it’s totally foreign, he’s gettin’ sensory overload. Chang tells him to take a moment then and try to recover from the passage. They must await the arrival of their contract anyway.
Holding a sword, Logan asks Chang that he’s got someone there, anyone he knows? Chang tells him of course. And soon they shall have someone everywhere. He then tells Logan to try to relax. Just then, Logan tells Chang that his nose is pickin’ up someone, or somethin’ nearby. Logan proceeds to ask Chang if it could be their contact already. Chang replies that he thinks not and runs off. When he does, Logan asks Chang where he’s off to and yells at him to get back there. Without him, he doesn’t even know where here is.
Standing alone, Logan thinks to himself this is crazy. He’s in the middle of God only knows where. Chang tells him this is another dimension, but what the heck is that supposed to mean? He wouldn’t be surprised if that lightshow back there was some big scheme o’ Chang’s to get him back in the game. His senses tell him otherwise however. He’s being watched, but he can’t pinpoint from where. Everything about this place, wherever it is, is giving him the creeps. He has to stay alert and stay ready for anything. His eyes are playin’ tricks on him now; the shadows are growing longer way too fast. What the….?! Outta nowhere, that scent…!
At that moment, a young lady and man emerge out of the shadows. Carrying a dagger, the shadow lady asks so this is what an off-worlder looks like. She can’t say that she is overly impressed. He’s so short and hairy. The shadow man agrees. He too had hoped that he would be more of a challenge. The shadow lady tells her companion to look at their foe. He’s holding a weapon fashioned from tall-plants. She then asks if Kimora has sent them on a fool’s errand. When Logan tells her to try him, the shadow lady commences to toss a number of daggers his way.
As they fly at him, Logan sees that the daggers are flying from her hair like shadows but they have substance edges. How? Unable to block them all, one of the daggers lands squarely in Logan’s chest. The shadow man mentions that if this is all the cross-world has to offer in the way of combatants, the warlord’s triumph will be swift indeed. The shadow lady remarks that there’s nothing to be done of it but wrap him up and bring him to Kimora. As Logan begins to be wrapped up in the shadows, he thinks to himself that this can’t be happening. The shadows are wrapping around him and he can’t pull free. They’re pulling him down into the ground with them.
Watching their foe struggle, the shadow man remarks that he is a lively one, he’ll give him that much. Look how much he struggles. The shadow lady states that surely, they’ve earned Kimora’s favor. Just then, a young lady arrives on the scene and tells the shadow assassins that Kimora will burn in the eternal flames of the ungodly.
Freeing Logan, the young lady tells Logan to use his sword if he can and rushes to battle the shadow assassins. The shadow lady sees her and remarks another off-worlder? They infest like vermin. Slashing at the shadow lady with her morphed hand into long fingernails, the young lady informs the shadow lady that she is no off-worlder and she does not die easily. Can she say the same? Doubling over, the shadow lady asks her partner to help her, she’s dying. Attacking the young lady and pinning her to the ground, the shadow man raises a dagger to her head and tells her that he will eat the shadow of her heart long after she is dead. Logan tells the young lady not to worry and proceeds to take him down with a sword strike. When he does, Logan witnesses him sink back into the shadows, takin’ the woman’s body with him. Like that, they’re gone like they never existed.
As the young lady morphs her hand back to normal, she tells Logan that they were real. When Logan asks her how she knew what he was thinking, she tells him that it’s in his eyes. Logan then asks her if she is their contact. After the young lady replies yes, Logan asks her how she morphed her hand like that. She informs him that she has the ability to morph her body mass and tells him that it’s been a long time. Logan starts to ask her if he knows her but then doubles over in extreme pain. Pulling the dagger out of his chest, Logan tells the young lady that he’s not feelin’ so hot; he thinks he’ll just pass out.
Some time later, Chang stands over Logan and mentions that it looks like he may live after all. Waking up, Logan asks how long he’s been out. Chang informs him that he has been unconscious for almost a day. The young lady remarks that he shouldn’t be alive at all. She’s seen bigger men than him fall dead after just touching one of her shadow blades. They’re all coated with a lethal poison. He took a blade in the chest, up to the hilt. Like she said, he should be dead. Helping Logan stand, Chang informs him that she wanted to put him out of his misery and continue the mission without him.
Logan replies sweet kid and tells her sorry if he disappointed her but what can he say? He’s always been a quick healer. Looking at his chest, the young lady remarks that the wound is completely healed, this is not natural. Logan says to her that the same thing could be said about that trick she did with her hand. He then asks her who she is. Earlier, she said he knew her. Her scent’s familiar but… The young lady tells him that it’s been years since he first rescued her father. She is Rose, and Kimora will fall by her hand.
Meanwhile, in Kimora’s palace, Kimora continues to torture Doctor Carling. As Kimora continues the pain, Carling begs for him to stop. Kimora informs him that they have only begun. Carling asks why he doesn’t just kill him. Kimora says because he will see him broken. He then tells him to understand this. He no longer needs him. Oracle has already taken from his mind what he requires. Holding a long red snake in his hands, Kimora says that in all the myriad worlds he has traveled, among all the peoples he has conquered, he has not encountered a will such as his. Despite his physical frailty, no matter the force brought to bear on him, he does not relent. So although his ultimate victory is assured, he cannot allow him his. He then orders him to yield. Supervise the opening of the portal and he will end his pain and spare his daughter. As Carling calls out Rose’s name, Kimora whips him with the snake and tells him indeed.
Just then, the shadow man appears holding his love dead in his arms. He reports that Carling’s daughter and the one called Logan did this to his love. He stayed his hand as ordered but he now begs to be allowed to kill them. Kimora asks what his is. He emerges from the shadows without having acquired either of those he sent him for? Plea denied. Entering the torture room, Oracle reports to Kimora that they are entering the citadel’s walls, all three of them. After thanking him, Kimora informs the shadow man that he may take the girl but she is not be killed, not yet. When the shadow man asks about the others, Kimora tells him to do with them as he wishes. He has no time to indulge any more of his personal pleasures.
Once the shadow man disappears, Oracle informs Kimora that he will not succeed in killing Logan and that both he and Logan will battle. Kimora asks about the victor and Oracle tells him he cannot see. Kimora replies as it should be. What matters the battle if the outcome is known. Turning his attention to Carling and whipping him again with the snake, Kimora asks him where they left off.
Standing in front of Kimora’s massive palace surrounded by tanks and troops, Logan asks Chang and Rose that they’re going in there. He then asks Chang how he keeps letting him talk him into these things. Rose says that in her dreams, she’s seen Logan as the knight in shining armor who came to rescue her father. He’s beginning to shatter her illusions. Logan tells her to get used to it. He was wilder then and he wasn’t facing a flippin’ army. Logan then asks if all the troops in front of them are with Kimora. Rose indicates that they are. Kimora has plans on leading them through the rift he is constructing to their dimension.
Chang asks a rift, but how? Could Carling have capitulated so soon? Rose tells him that her father will never give in. There is talk of a mind-reaper, a being who looks behind men’s eyes, who serves Kimora. Seeing the glowing orb near the palace, Chang mentions that the rumors must be true. Rose informs her allies that getting in isn’t going to be as hard as it looks. Act like you belong. They’re mercenaries looking to join the army. If anyone questions them, kill them.
Just then, a monk yells out “off-worlders.” Three of their kind is amidst their lot; the stars give him divine sight. This rift of the lord’s is evil. Pointing to Logan, Rose, and Chang the monk says they are from another side. Chang remarks that the monk sees phantoms where there are none, too much of the holy grape at morning’s services? Rose tells Logan to kill the monk but Logan tells her no, he’ll handle it his own way. Walking up to the monk, Logan asks him that he speaks ill of the high lord Kimora. These cowards may be willing to stand by and listen to his blasphemy but, he is not. With that, Logan knocks the monk out.
After doing so, Logan calls out that let any who believe in the monk’s words stand before him and he will strike them down in the name of Kimora. Otherwise stand aside. Putting the monk on his shoulder, Logan adds that he will take this thing to the very gates of the Kimora’s blessed tower. His impiety will be dealt with by the lord himself. Blocking their path, two guards order them to stand fast. None may enter the inner palace without a pass.
Walking up to them, Chang informs them that he has a pass. When the guards ask to see it, Chang tells them to come closer and to feel his hands pass through their miniscule brains and sleep. At that moment, the guards fall to the ground. As the trio make their way through the gate and enter the inner palace, Rose tells them that they must move quickly and as if they belong there. If any challenge them they will say they have an urgent message for Kimora. Logan asks what if they don’t buy that. Rose tells him then he shows them the same mercy Kimora would show. That is how one survives this place.
Just then, Chang calls out to Logan to look out behind him. Standing up to the large man, Logan replies that he’s on it and adds that somebody cover the other one closin’ the gate. He then asks what he is fighting, a mountain with legs. Rose informs him that it is one of Kimora’s elite guard. He would best be served staying out of the way of his axe; it appears to be quite sharp. Dodging the massive guard’s swipe, Logan sarcastically thanks him for the tip. Continuing to dodge the guard’s axe swipes, Logan tells Chang and Rose that, if either of them wanted to join in, he wouldn’t be insulted. Rose tells him she’s sorry but the other guard seems intent on impaling her with the razor-sharp quills of his.
Looking over at Rose, Logan thinks to himself that first she’s able to morph her hands, an’ now she’s projectin’ some sort o’ force field around her body. What is she? What are they? What is this place? When Logan calls out Chang’s name, Chang informs him that he would not dream of interfering in his exercise. He knows how important these things are to a man such as himself. Continuing to do battle with the massive guard, Logan tells Chang that he really has to stop bein’ so nice to him. He then notices that Rose seems to be holdin’ her own against the human porcupine. Take him out by kickin’ him into the big guy’s axe. You know that’s got to hurt. If he can hit the nerve clusters around the big guy’s wrists, assumin’ he’s got nerve clusters… It’s like hittin’ cement.
Eventually, the big guy drops the axe, but Logan also drops his sword in the process. Grabbing Logan in a bear-hug, the massive guard begins to crush Logan’s ribs. As Rose tosses a knife to Logan, he grabs it and jams it into the guard’s eye. When he does so, the guard drops Logan to the ground. Acting quickly, Logan uses the sword on its larynx and then behind the knee. Once the guard falls to the ground, a crack to its medulla oblongata takes him out. Logan then mentions to Chang that he hopes they didn’t disturb his smoke. He does know he could have done that finger thing, like he did to the guards at the front gate. Chang informs him that it would not have worked on these two. When Logan asks how, Chang puts out his cigarette and replies that he just knows. Besides, he was waiting. Logan asks for what. Chang tells him for that.
Just then, the shadow assassin emerges and grabs Rose from behind. As he drags her away, he tells her that she wasn’t expecting her, was she. Now she comes with him to Kimora and they travel through the shadows. Jamming his knife into the wall, Chang informs Logan that he got it. The “shadow” is pinned there. They can use it to get to Kimora. Leaping into the shadow on the wall, Chang invites Logan to follow him, they have no time to lose. Logan thinks to himself that the scent o’ this thing, all his instincts say jumpin’ into this shadow will lead to a world o’ hurt but it looks like this is the only path open to him an’ he has ta follow it in the end. With that, Logan follows Chang inside the shadow.
In short time, Logan enters Kimora’s inner sanctuary. Once there, he sees Rose being held captive by the shadow assassin, Carling being tortured, and Chang facing off against one of Kimora’s men. Upon seeing Logan, Kimora welcomes him. As he begins to leave up the staircase, Kimora tells him that he is sorry, but he cannot oblige him with another lesson in the art of war. It really is too bad for as he sees, Doctor Carling is in no position to interfere this time. He must attend to other business, a matter of great interest to the good doctor. Reality is bigger than them both, as Logan is learning. Logan begins to ask Chang what but Chang tells him that he is sorry but he cannot help him. He is currently engaged in a battle on another plane of existence. He must do this in order to keep this sorcerer from destroying them all. It is up to him to stop Kimora.
At that moment, Kimora orders the Shadow Walker that if Logan tries to follow, if he even moves, kill Rose. The Shadow Walker replies with pleasure as Kimora ascends the stairs while his followers bring Carling along behind him.
Holding a dagger to Rose’s neck, the Shadow Walker asks Logan if she means something to him as his wife did to him. He does hope so. He then asks him how it feels to see her so close to death. Knowing he is powerless to stop it. Does his blood boil? Standing there with his sword, Logan says to himself that he’s gonna kill her. No matter what he does, he’s gonna kill her. He’s toyin’ with him but he can’t even hear him. He can only hear his own pulse pounding in his ears. Pounding. Louder. Louder.
After he sees the Shadow Walker’s blade draw blood on Rose’s cheek, Logan tosses down his sword and pounces. Landing on top of the Shadow Walker, Logan proceeds to unmercifully pound on him continuously. Rose tells Logan to stop but her pleas go ignored. She then yells at him to stop, he’s unconscious and they need to find her father. Standing up, Logan finds that he’s losing himself to the rage. He has to get control but it’s so hard. The blood-lust is blinding him. After pouncing on Oracle and pounding him into submission, Logan starts up the stairs to find Kimora and Carling.
Once he leaves, Rose mentions to Chang that Logan is out of control, he’s acting like an animal. Chang replies then they must stay with him. And pray that he does not lose himself entirely to the beast within him for if Logan endangers the mission, they will have to kill him. At the top of the stairs, Logan encounters a number of Kimora’s followers. There are so many of them, trying to stop him from getting to Kimora. He wants to hurt them, kill them. But he can’t give in to the blood lust. Following behind, Chang points out to Rose that Logan is restraining himself, barely. But he is clearing a path for them.
Just then, Logan crashes into Kimora’s private area that houses the rift-creating device. Kimora tells him that he is too late. The rift is opening, despite Carling’s fortitude. Through it all, through all the torture, he was willing to sacrifice everything, including his daughter, for a greater good. He understands there is always something bigger than the self, that the small world of the one is a grain of sand in the desert of the larger whole. He is a great warrior. But he is greater. He used Oracle to plunder his mind. All his pain is for naught. So now, he gives him a warrior’s death. With that, Kimora jams his sword into Carling’s gut.
Logan yells “no more” and rushes at Kimora, firing his weapon into him. Kimora asks a gun? How pedestrian. He knows it will do him no good. He hasn’t grasped it yet, has he? He can not be killed. Him, on the other hand… Attacking Kimora, Logan tells him that there ain’t no man in any dimension that he can’t take down. With Carling’s last breaths, he tells Chang to shut down the rift and take care of Rose. As Kimora and Logan continue to viciously battle back and forth, Logan finds that he can’t stop himself. He’s losing it all, losing himself.
Just then, Rose calls out to Logan not to kill Kimora. If he follows his path, there is no turning back. He will be lost to them forever. His death will not bring back her father. After jamming his gun into Kimora’s chest, Logan says to Rose that he can’t help himself. Rose tells him that he can and tosses his wooden sword towards him and tells him to take it, take back his humanity.
Catching his sword, Logan asks Chang what would happen if someone were sent through the rift, but it was not allowed to stay fully open. Chang answers that they would be trapped between worlds until they died. Logan asks and if they couldn’t die? Rising up, Kimora again attacks Logan and tells him that he will not do this. He is weak, he has always been weak. Eventually, he will have his vengeance. Logan tells him yeah, but not today and proceeds to kick Kimora in the gut, knocking him into the rift.
Chang then tells Logan that the rift-creating device must be destroyed now. They have their own unit, he has to use his sword. Logan tells him he knows. It’s just, his bokken, a simple wooden sword, his sensei was right. In the end, it’s all that kept him from losing his grasp on humanity, from sliding permanently into that bestial rage. He then tells Chang that he doesn’t know what it was like. It was like he was an animal, he saw a part o’ himself he never wants to see again. To now give up the bokken, he’s afraid he’ll be givin’ up more than just a piece o’ wood. This just ain’t easy. With that, Logan tosses the bokken into the rift-creating device, destroying it.
In Japan, three days later, Rose, Chang and Logan bury Doctor Carling. As they do, Chang tells Rose that her father was a great scientist and a greater man. The world has suffered tragic loss. Turning to a beaten up Logan, Chang informs him that Rose has decided to stay on with their firm as an operative. He is more than welcome to stay on if he should so choose. Rose asks Logan please and tells him that Chang assures her that they would be partners, a team. Smiling, Logan tells her that he’s never been much of a team player but after what he did for him back there, after all that he saw, he’ll have to think about it. It’s time for him to start changin’ the way he looks at the world and at himself. High time.


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Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Logan: Shadow Society
(Somewhere near the Canadian/U.S. border - the past)
Special Agent Neil Langram smokes a cigarette as he waits for Logan to arrive. He works for a department so secret, even his own prime minister is unaware of its existence. It allows him to do his job without all the bother of bureaucratic red tape, and allows him into places to learn things that civilians could never fathom. Some things even he would rather not know.
Nervously, he continues to wait, thinking about how he’s lived with the secrets for too long. Someone has got to tell the world the truth. Tonight, he’s letting Logan, his partner, know exactly what he plans to do. Suddenly, a voice from the darkness tells him he’s looking tense; like he’s got a lot on his mind. Langram turns and pulls out his revolver. The stranger isn’t frightened of that. Langram realizes he’s been found out. He knew it would happen eventually, and he must warn Logan. Out of nowhere, his assailant strikes, slashing his stomach and causing huge amounts of bleeding. Neil looks down at all the blood, and collapses to the floor. His attacker tells him that this is what he gets for poking his nose in where it doesn’t belong. He isn’t the first, and he won’t be the last. His runt of a partner is going to be next. Logan and the stranger have a score to settle. Langram bleeds to death.
Meanwhile, Dr. Perry Edwards appears on a television program hosted by Patrick Hoolin. The show is Stranger than Strange, and Dr. Edwards is there to promote his book, entitled The Shadow Society. It’s a book which discusses the possibilities of a hidden society living amongst ordinary humans. They are beings of power and potential danger. Edwards calls them mutants.
Edwards contends that they may be no more dangerous then the person living next door to you, but the government has been hiding the existence of these powerful beings in order to exploit them for their own purposes. Hoolin asks for what purposes they serve. Edwards’ answer isn’t revealed. Hoolin then enquires about the possibility that these mutants come from another planet. Edwards dismisses this idea outright, and reminds Hoolin that the potential threat is very real, and everyone should be advised to be aware. Patrick Hoolin cuts to commercial break.
(later, Toronto)
In a rundown section of the city, Special Agent Carol Danvers is on an undercover operation. Her pseudonym this time is Ms. Daniels. It’s a joint operation with the Canadians. She carries a suitcase full of money, and enters a bar to meet with an arms dealer known as Mr. Preen. He uses the bar as his base of operations. His supply route takes his illegal arms through both American and Canadian soil, and he boasts that he can get any weapon for the right price. He is very rich, having traded with dictators and terrorists from all around the world. But, when all’s said and done, Carol thinks he’s nothing but a common thug; an extremely rich and bored one, but a thug just the same.
She meets him. His face is scarred down the right side from what looks like an acid burn. She opens the suitcase and reveals a large amount of cash inside. She asks if he would like to count it, or can they proceed. He asks her to call him Jacques. He tells Carol that she’s a beautiful woman, and so young for one in such a dangerous line of work. He asks her to bring the money, and they will reconvene in his showroom. He shall count it while she peruses the merchandise. She will not be disappointed.
They head outside along with Preen’s bodyguards, and head off to the showroom. He asks if her clients are international freedom fighters. Carol doesn’t divulge this information. He asks if she’s from the eastern part of the States but, again, Carol isn’t giving much away. Preen doesn’t know much about her, but there’s so much he’d like to know.
She is shown inside a room, where a large man awaits them. Carol asks where the weapons are. She thought this was his showroom. “Oh, it was,” Preen replies, “until I learned that the Americans would be sending a young woman to me, posing as an intermediary for international terrorists.” He explains that he had them moved to another location. Carol feigns ignorance and, even with a pistol to her forehead, she says that she doesn’t know what he’s talking about. She’s a professional to the end.
Jacques Preen asks her not to insult his intelligence. He has been in this business far too long, and has people on his payroll in both Canada and America. He reveals he has known about her operation since before she was given this assignment. Now, it is over. He will remain in business, but unfortunately, she will be dead. Carol knows this is a tough situation, but reacts instantly, kicking the large bodyguard and grabbing his pistol. She holds it to Preen’s head and he does likewise. They’ve arrived at an impasse.
Preen smiles. He informs Carol that at this moment there are four more guns trained at her head. She will be dead before she can pull the trigger. “I’m still standing, Preen,” says Carol. Preen calls for his four men, but none of them respond. He begins to panic. “Kill her, kill her now! A strange voice replies from the darkness. It’s Logan, and he explains that ain’t gonna happen. Preen asks who he is. Logan introduces himself and adds that some might say he’s the best he is at what he does.
Wearing trousers and a white vest, Logan carries two blades which he has used to off the gunmen. Danvers is surprised to see him. He wasn’t supposed to be part of the operation. Lucky for her that he dealt himself in. He’s still the Wildman after all these years, she thinks. He still moves with the same brutal grace, and shows his age about as much as he shows mercy - as in, not at all. Preen is terrified and tries to run, and Carol almost feels sorry for him; almost.
A short time later, back in the bar, Preen is unconscious on the floor. Logan tells Carol it’s nice to see her again, and asks how she’s doing. She replies that she’s good, but a few minutes ago…? She was expecting Langram as back up. Logan says it’s her lucky day. He got the call just an hour ago. He adds that Langram was supposed to be here, but something came up. The boys back in Ottawa knew Logan and Carol had a history of running successful missions together, so they chose him as a replacement.
They share a drink to old times. Carol points out that she needs to call this in; get a clean-up crew and some interrogators. Logan asks why bother? He’s sure they can squeeze everything they need out of the fat man. Carol says they don’t do that stuff anymore, but Logan reckons that’s more the shame. It takes all the fun out of being a secret agent.
Carol makes the call. She and Logan go way back. She was green when they first met in the field, but she learned real quick. There isn’t a man or woman alive who Logan would rather have watching his back when the heat comes down. He thinks it’s almost time he told her everything. She’s one of the few he can trust. Carol gets off the phone, and looks shaken. Logan teases her a little. He tells her she looks like her best friend died; but knows that ain’t the case as he’s standing right before her. Carol replies that it’s Neil. He’s dead.
(one hour later)
Logan and Carol arrive at the crime scene as government troops are scouring the area. Logan knows that Langram was the best. Whoever got the drop on him was real good. A tall official named Sidney Hallorman stands behind Logan and says this is a mess. His men have been all over the scene trying to piece together what happened. From experience, Logan knows the killer came out of the bushes. He dislikes Hallorman intensely. He is an officious bureaucrat working with the Defense Ministry; an accountant playing at the espionage game. He wouldn’t know a clue if it stabbed him in the throat. He wonders what Neil was doing here. They were so close to learning the truth, and this had to involve that.
Hallorman explains that the best they’ve been able to determine is that Langram was selling his services to the highest bidder. “He was a traitor, Logan; one who obviously ran foul of someone who liked to play with knives. He got what he deserved if you ask me.” As Neil’s corpse lies in a body bag, blood drying to his cheek, Logan flips, and pushes Hallorman. He produces one of his own knives, and grabs him by the neck tie. He wails at Hallorman, explaining that Neil Langram was as loyal and trustworthy a man as you’d ever meet. He was worth ten of Hallorman. He won’t let the bureaucrat dirty his name just because it’ll make his job easier. He’ll see Hallorman dead first.
Carol asks him to let the guy go. He isn’t worth it. She asks that he get control of himself. Logan replies that he is calm. She shouldn’t worry. He hasn’t lost it in a long time. He warns Hallorman that if he ever hears that he’s been talking any other garbage about Langram being a traitor, he promise he’ll come after him. He tells the hopeless Hallorman to get lost; he has work to do.
Carol asks Logan what he’s doing next, and thinks they should go for a drink. It’s over for Neil. Logan has other ideas. He wants to find out who did this, and make him pay. There’s something there he can almost smell. Carol thinks he’s too close to the case, and should back off. A stranger behind her asks Logan to listen to her. It’s Malcolm, one of Logan’s superiors. He informs Logan that he is to back off from the case, or charges will be brought against him. He will take the lead in the investigation.
Logan asks when he’s hauling him in for a grilling, but Malcolm replies that there’ll be no grilling. He reminds Logan that he is a loyal government employee with nothing to hide, and is sure he will cooperate to the fullest in their investigation. He suggests Logan take some time off. He’ll be contacted when the government needs him. Logan thanks him, but is clearly not finished with this case.
(later, Logan’s apartment)
Logan and Carol are relaxing, but Logan is anything but relaxed. The whole thing stinks. Malcolm should never have let him walk away like that. He knows more than he’s admitting. Carol feels it’s the booze talking. One of Logan’s best friends was killed and, in his state, he’s bound to see conspiracies all over the place. Logan replies that he ain’t drunk. Carol asks why that is. He drinks like a fish, and it never seems to affect him. Logan replies that he guesses he’s been blessed with an excellent metabolism. He informs Carol that there are things going on he can’t tell even her about. He and Neil were into some pretty serious stuff, and he thinks that’s what got him killed.
Logan then accesses a computer; an experimental version he acquired from the tech boys. He attempts to break into the defense ministry’s mainframe and see what he can dig up on Neil. Unfortunately, as he attempts to hack into it, his access is qualified as unauthorized and a self-destruct mechanism goes off, destroying the machine. Logan puts the fire out, but now needs another way to get the info he needs. He asks Carol if she fancies spending the night so they come up with a plan. Carol says she’d love to, but she has a six a.m. plane back to Washington. She still has to write up her report on tonight’s mission, and, as a friend who cares a great deal about him, she suggests he gets some rest and takes a back seat on this whole mess.  Logan says sure, and he’ll keep that in mind. Carol departs, and Logan gets some shut eye.
(two hours later)
Logan is woken by the sound of gunshots. He instinctively leaps form his bed, and figures his assailants must be shooting blind, as he hasn’t been hit by the time he hits the floorboards. As shots rake the bedroom, Logan crashes through his room door and into the hallway, where another assassin awaits. Logan doesn’t waste his ammo, and takes him out nice and quietly to buy himself a few more seconds. With the precious time he’s saved, he leaps through a window and to freedom.
(soon)
Logan makes a phone call from a telephone box. He offers his priority code: Wolverine, and says he needs control, now. He explains that he had a hit and run at his apartment, and bad guys might be on his tail. He wants to be brought in, and asks if he can be met. They suggest the hockey stadium and ask if Logan knows where it is. “Yeah,” he replies, “I know where the hockey stadium is! I am Canadian, you know. I’ll be there in fifteen minutes.”
(fifteen minutes later)
Logan waits inside the stadium for his contacts to arrive. As he stands in the center of the rink, he sniffs the air, and realizes that he’s being set up. He pulls a revolver from its holster, and shoots the light out as two fresh assailants abseil from the ceiling. He then draws one of his blades and hurls it at the first man, who’s carrying what appears to be an overly large gun for this type of mission. The blade slices his rope, and he lands much harder than he expected. He’s out cold. Logan grabs his weapon and begins firing at the second guy. He connects with his rope, and he too lands with a thump. Still a pro to the end, he manages to reach for his gun, but Logan warns him that he’s not that fast.
Logan demands to know who on the inside set him up. The injured assassin isn’t talking, but informs Logan that, by the end of the night, he and the woman will be dead anyway. Logan kicks him in the face, hard, and comments that he now won’t be talking for the next couple of months. Not with his jaw wired shut.
(Carol Danvers’ room, later)
When Logan arrives at Carol’s place, it emerges that four assassins came after her. Logan feels insulted that only two were on his case. Carol replies that, obviously, they knew who wears the pants in this partnership. She asks what Logan got her into, but he clearly doesn’t know. All he does know is that they can trust no one. He asks if she’s up for this. Carol replies that it looks like she hasn’t a choice. “C’mon,” he smiles, “It’ll be just like the old days.” That’s what Carol’s afraid of.
(Canadian Ministry of Defense)
Deep within the complex, a top secret research and development agency in its earliest stages of growth, two hapless guards in white combat suits are playing cards. “Department H!” says one, “What’s that stand for, Department Hoser?” He can’t believe they drew this detail. His friend says he shouldn’t complain. They could have to dress up like all the other hosers up above instead of getting to wear this fine garb. They finish their game, and get up from their seats - boxes labelled ‘Top Secret.’
Heading off on their rounds, they soon come across Carol Danvers, who distracts them with a little flirting, whilst Logan jumps them from above. Now with an electronic key which will open the vault, they make their way through the basement. Logan explains to Carol that he’s been with the department longer than he cares to remember, and he’s telling her that this place doesn’t exist. Clearly, it does. They don’t know what they’re looking for, but Logan discovers a list with his name on it, as well as Neil Langram’s and half a dozen others. Carol asks how he fits into all this, but Logan simply doesn’t know. He smashes a screen that reads ‘Mutant Agenda,’ and figures they should start at the top of the list. There are two names that look vaguely familiar. The first they don’t want to run into. The second is gonna take them back to their home soil.
(New York City, four hours later)
In Greenwich Village, Dr. Edwards, earlier seen being interviewed on television, wanders through the crowded streets. Logan intercepts him, but Edwards shrugs him off, thinking him an autograph hunter. As he heads away, he glances backwards to see several men who appear to be following him. He increases his pace, and says to himself that he knew this would happen eventually. He knows too much, and there’s no way they can allow him to live. What was he thinking when he decided to publish?
He enters a building and ascends the staircase. ‘It’s the mutants,’ he thinks. He feels they’re out to silence him. He opens a door, and discovers Carol Danvers standing in the room. She tells him to get down. Edwards stubbornly refuses, and states he will not be intimidated. She repeats her request, and is then forced to shove him out of the way as a couple of gunmen appear at the doorway.
Suddenly, the two men are taken out from behind, as Logan piles through them. He’s spotted at least half a dozen more on his way up, so they should take ‘em out quiet so they don’t have them all up there at once. Carol deals with one of the guy's who is still conscious, and Logan helps out where he can. She becomes frustrated by his insistence on calling her ‘kid,’ and he enquires just how old she is, anyway. She replies that, in some states they’ve been in, he wouldn’t even be able to buy her a drink!
They usher Dr. Edwards from the room, and inform him that they have a safe house nearby. Edwards stutters, “But who... who… who…?” Carol interjects, by replying, “Who is behind all this? We’re hoping you can help us figure that out.” “No,” Edwards replies, “I mean who is going to help feed my cats?”
(a short time later)
Dr. Edwards is wary of being escorted by these two strangers. He wishes to go to the police. Carol advises against doing that, but he isn’t interested in her advice. Logan assures him that they’re simply trying to keep him alive. Edwards asks who they think is trying to kill him, but Logan cannot answer. All he knows is that whoever it is, they want him dead too.
He explains that both his and Edwards’ names appeared on a list which turned up in a government data bank. The file was called ‘The Mutant Agenda,’ and it looks like it has worldwide ramifications. “Worldwide?” queries Edwards. He never dreamed. But then, he realizes that of course it would be worldwide. How small-minded of him to assume it would be confined to the United States. He’s on the brink of exposing it all, so no wonder they want him dead.
Logan grabs his shoulders to bring him back to reality. He asks the doc to take a deep breath and start from the beginning. He asks who it is that wants him dead. Edwards replies that it’s the mutant hierarchy, of course. Logan hasn’t heard of them. Edwards pulls out a book from his jacket pocket and tells them it’s all in there. A shadow society of mutants, he explains; super-powered, genetically superior beings who are living amongst mankind. Logan asks him to continue, but Carol can’t believe Logan is buying this drivel.
Edwards continues to tell them that mutants are very real. As they stand there, society; civilization is on the brink of a major step forward in the evolutionary process. However, the consequences could be a war, the likes of which mankind has never witnessed. Logan takes the book. Dr. Edwards adds that, in researching the sequel to this book, he has uncovered that not all of these mutants are benevolent. He decides to show them.
(evening, Upper Manhattan’s east side)
Logan, Carol Danvers and Dr. Edwards are standing on the sidewalk opposite the Hellfire Club. A large white limousine is parked outside and people are entering the premises. Edwards says that admittance and membership is by invitation only. Logan adds that only those who are amongst the wealthiest and most powerful movers and shakers ever receive invitations. No one turns down membership. To do so is to exclude yourself from cavorting with others in a similar socio-economic bracket.
When Logan asks what it has to do with mutants, Edwards explains that amongst the highest-ranking members of the club are super-powered mutants. Logan asks how he knows this. Discreetly, Edwards replies that he has his sources; sources who tell him that the mutants are planning a purge of what is called the Inner Circle of the Hellfire Club. “And this is a bad thing?” enquires Logan. Edwards continues to say that his source, before her untimely death, came upon information which indicated that these mutants crave power which reaches far beyond these walls. The fact he is telling Logan this has marked him for death.
Logan wants to go in. Carol adds, “Of course we are.” Logan apologizes, but he wants Carol to get Edwards safe. Carol asks why he can’t let this go, and Logan replies that it’s personal; real personal. Carol senses that there is more to this than just Langram’s death, but Logan kisses her on her cheek and asks her not to go there. As he turns and walks to the club, he tells Carol to forget about him. Just get Edwards safe and she’ll be just fine. He’s going to find some answers, but isn’t sure he’ll like what he finds.
Logan approaches the door and whistles. The doorman, Jonathan, stands in his way and explains that entry is for members only. He warns Logan to leave before he calls the police. As he disappears along the sidewalk, Jonathan radios his fellow guards and warns them they may have a possible stalker. He orders security on all entrances beefed up.
A young boy climbs the steps to the club with his father. The boy is Warren Worthington III, and he asks his father what the Hellfire Club is. His father replies that he’ll learn all in due time. Tonight is simply about enjoying the party and the company of others of their standing. Jonathan greets him warmly.
Meanwhile, Logan is up on the rooftops, having lost his coat. He thinks it’s ridiculous that he’s bouncing from roof to roof when he could be going in through the sewers. He drops through an open skylight and discovers a computer for him to tap into. Unfortunately, it’s all encrypted, so he’ll find nothing there. Suddenly, from the shadows comes a cadre of Hellfire Club guards; each of them armed. Logan plays it nonchalantly, and asks what they’re gonna do with him.
Moments later, and the guards are being defenestrated, with Logan taking them out in mid air. As they face this ferocious onslaught, Logan is thankful that all bad guys seem to be alike, and couldn’t resist telling him in gory detail what they planned to do with him. One of them said, “Orders are to take you up to the Canadian installation with the rest of your kind.” Logan doesn’t know what that means, but at least it’s a lead. Maybe, he thinks, he should have waited to hear more before breaking the guy’s jaw.
Their battle is watched from inside the club by concerned officials, who ask their guests to pay no attention to the melee outside. It’s a minor problem which security has under control, they lie. As Logan continues his assault, he wonders why he continues to do this. As more guards approach, unexpected assistance arrives in the form of Carol Danvers, who drops gas grenades on the incoming guards. She drops him a rope, which he climbs and the pair of them hightail it outta there.
Carol explains that she got Edwards to safety, but mentions that this is her country, and since when does he start giving her orders? She asks if he founds anything, but Logan doesn’t give much away, He wonders if she can gain access to her department’s computers and help him do some digging. It’s not a problem for Carol, and she reminds Logan that her government isn’t trying to kill her. “The night’s young, darlin’,” replies Logan.
Watching events from a window in the Hellfire Club, Sebastian Shaw asks his companion if he thinks Logan will take the bait. “Count on it,” he replies. He reckons the runt’s good enough to follow the trail he’s given him there, and he does show initiative. Shaw wonders if he could be persuaded to join up and work for him. “Not a chance,” comes the reply. Shaw then tells him to do what needs to be done. This one man jeopardizes everything he’s worked to accomplish. Shaw turns to his companion, Sabretooth, and explains that the Inner Circle is within his grasp and, after all, it’s imperative that the existence of mutantkind not be made public knowledge until he and his compatriots are ready to act decisively. He thinks this operation is turning into a debacle, and orders Sabretooth to salvage what he can and clean up the rest. Sabretooth is happy to do this. He and the runt have a score to settle.
(the next day, near the Canadian border)
Logan and Carol are in stealth mode. They have arrived at their destination, and Logan feels this is the right place; he can feel it in his bones. However, something doesn’t smell quite right. They move their way through the empty complex, and Logan tells Carol that the whole place reeks of blood. A voice from the darkness says, “Ain’t you the sensitive runt?” Logan draws a meaty-looking knife, and recognizes the voice. “Don’t remember the red salty botherin’ you much when we were in the mud together, boy!” Logan says Creed’s name, and orders Carol to leave, now!
Sabretooth tells her to stick around; the fun’s just starting. Logan suddenly sees Dr. Edwards’ body dropped beside him. He is wrapped in cloth, and hanging lifelessly. Creed then proceeds to drop several more bodies, including Hallorman and Malcolm from the Defense Ministry. Three others Logan doesn’t know, and never will, hang beside them. Creed explains that they were working on the U.S. side of the operation. He explains that so many minds were put into this thing, and Logan ran it all into the ground. He informs Logan that a lot of real powerful people want him dead. He has no idea what a beauty of an operation this was gonna be. Creed had it made, and even thought about bringing Logan in. It was, he adds, always supposed to be about people like Logan and himself, but now, it’s just about him.
Creed’s arm reaches from the shadows and grabs Carol by the hair. He comments that they will die, and the people he works for will start building this all over again. He isn’t going to lose any sleep over it. “Seems like old times, Logan. You, me and a frail.” Logan warns Creed to let Carol go, but Creed isn’t willing to do that just yet. He wants Logan to be at his fighting best, and actually wants him to go all wild over him like he used to. He figures he’ll need a little inspiration. A little spilled frail blood might be just what he needs. “While you’re fightin’ me, you can think about how you couldn’t save her.”
Fortunately, Carol Danvers isn’t helpless and she delivers a kick to Creed’s torso, which frees her from his grasp. She tells Logan he can kill Creed, but should do it for himself, not her. Creed is eager for battle. Logan desires a kill, but not before Creed explains what this is all about. Creed is happy to oblige but, before he spills his guts, he just wants Logan to admit what he is. Raising his knife above his head, Logan asks what he’s talking about. Creed taunts him about running around, looking into all this mutant stuff, while he won’t even admit himself why he’s doing it. Logan orders him to shut up, and leaps at Creed.
Sabretooth uses Logan’s momentum to get him off balance, and he holds him above his head. Creed tells him it’s scary looking in the mirror and realizing you’re different from anyone else. This, he explains, is the difference between the pair of them. Creed is proud of the fact he is different, ‘cause he knows he’s better than the rest. It explains why he finds it so easy to kill them all. “We are both mutants, Logan. Unfortunately, in about another minute, I’m going to be the only live one in the room.”
Logan replies with a hint of sarcasm that they’re both mutants; so how come a group of mutants like the Hellfire Club wants other mutants dead? Creed seems surprised that Logan hasn’t cottoned on to the Club’s real purpose. He explains that Edwards was right. Sides are being drawn up for the future. Armies of mutants are going to be formed. His employers wanted to make sure they had one of the first; one of the best. That’s why they picked him up. Logan and his partner were on somebody’s list, but it was some farm team down in the States. Logan’s partner, he continues, was contacted by his people and turned down the offer. He learned the hard way it was a once in a lifetime offer.
Logan realizes that it was Creed who killed Neil Langram. With incredible swiftness, he brings his sword around and plunges it straight into Sabretooth’s stomach, lifting him clean off the ground. The air is filled with an inhuman howl of pain. For years after, Carol Danvers could never be quite sure if it was a cry of pain from Sabretooth, or one of bestial rage from the depths of Logan’s soul. Soon, the sound dies away, and the battle is done.
Carol asks Logan if they should take what they’ve learned public. Logan knows information like this will start riots, as people begin hunting mutants down because they’re different. He doesn’t want to be responsible for creating a world like that. Suddenly, Sabretooth stands, his healing factor clearly helping him recover quickly from the blade wound. He is carrying an explosive device. Carol and Logan have a second to think. Logan calls for Carol to get down, and then unloads several bullets into Creed’s body. A massive explosion demolishes the complex.
(one month later)
Carol is in a safe house while she nurses her wounds. She is called by Logan, and thanks him for dragging her out of that inferno alive. She enquires about him, and he replies that he’s always been a quick healer. Carol’s people went through the ruins, but came up with squat. Not even a trace of Creed remained. This news comes as no surprise to Logan. Carol asks what’s next. Logan says they do nothing. Nobody will believe it, and he’s not even sure Carol believes it - and she was there. Besides, his rep with his people is dirt now. They get all squirrelly when you start talking conspiracy in the Defense Ministry. Along with busting into Department H and the Hellfire Club, he’s lucky not to be in jail. He figures they should get on with their lives, and see what the world throws at them.
Carol replies that she can’t do that. Somebody in one of their governments has got to listen; has got to care. She wants to find someone they can trust and get them to look at what they’ve found. She’s heard good things about a freshman senator who’s on the way up. His name is Kelly, and it seems like the kind of thing he’d be willing to help with.
Logan lets her decide, but asks that she doesn’t let it drag her down. He’s heading off to the Yukon to try and forget he ever heard about mutants. “Maybe in a few years it’ll all have blown over. Teams of super-powered mutants? Even I can’t buy that one!”


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[Assistant]
Reflex Actions
Los Angeles, California:
Johnny Gallo (Ricochet) recounts what happened previously in an email to a dead friend (a former member of the Slingers, Eddie). For most of the email, he mentions how he, Spider-Woman and Darkhawk fought Nekra and a couple of MGH dealers, and how the three of them are hiding the fact that they used their powers from the rest of Excelsior. He feels guilty for lying to the group. He mentions that writing letters to a dead friend may be therapeutic, but it doesn't give him the advice he needs. Johnny ends the e-mail by saying he misses him.
Los Angeles, California – night:
Johnny is in his apartment - images of Los Angeles, the City of Angels fly through his mind. Southland, Hollywood, the Hills. Forget dreams, Los Angeles is the city of fantasy. It's not about "What's Now!" It's about "What's Next?" Johnny feels LA is the place where people come to live the lives of their idols: "The Young and the Senseless". LA is a culture that breeds a certain mentality ... it's about discovering what's hot and finding it faster than anyone else. It's a way of life even reflected in the names of the movies they make: Heat. Speed. Boiling Point. And for someone like Johnny Gallo, a young, single guy who's all about being one step ahead of the game ... it's perfect. Slamming down upon his Guitar Hero guitar, Johnny roars "Thank you, Los Angeles!!" Fast and furious - that's how he rolls!
Or at least ... that's how he used to roll.
Johnny's apartment, later:
Johnny, in his shirt and underwear, stands around his bare apartment and sighs, slowly lowering the guitar. Nowadays, things are a little different for him. Johnny is a mutant, who has decided not to use his powers anymore. He's got superhuman agility with amazing reflexes, and a handy-dandy "danger sense" that's suppose to warn him of ... danger.
 He picks up a flat, gold disc inscribed with an "R" - one of his Ricochet discs. He picks up his Ricochet costume, but slowly lowers it, after remembering how he was a teenage superhero, and how he and Excelsior had abandoned their powers after realizing how much problems came with their powers. While surfing the internet, he clicks upon a news story online - about Nekra. Apparently, Nekra was transferred to S.H.I.E.L.D. custody. Authorities are still searching for the heroes who stopped her. Johnny reads on, all the while thinking of what type of help he could be doing, if only he hadn't abandoned his power. He thinks about how they justify their actions by telling themselves that they sometimes need to put the costumes back on for the Greater Good. But, bitterly, he realizes the truth: sometimes, their inner demons get the better of them. Sometimes, their powers become an addiction. That's why they attend the meetings, and say what they think they want to hear ... just to make it easier to look at themselves in the mirror when the masks come off. He looks at the back of the Ricochet disk, and sees his solemn reflection staring back. He decides to attend these meetings, for the right reasons...
Molly's Irish Pub - the next morning:
Johnny sits with Mattie (Spider-Woman) and Chris (Darkhawk). Chris asks him what's so important that can't wait until after the meeting. Before Johnny answers, Mattie points out Johnny has a crush on the cute redhead owner of the pub. Chris laughs at this, although Johnny remains solemn. Johnny tells the other two he plans to tell the rest of Excelsior about how he, Mattie and Chris stopped Nekra. Predictably, the other two are outraged, though Johnny feels he wants to bring them into the loop. Chris, however, says they did promise Mattie they'd give her time to dig deeper into the MGH operations. Johnny counteracts by saying they shouldn't wait; they have information, and they should act upon it. Mattie, however points out it is criminal information.
Johnny becomes agitated, and explains that since the three of them stopped Nekra and the MGH operations, they're probably closing up their operations to relocate. Johnny wonders if what they read in their lab was true; not only are they paying top dollar to donors for DNA to make this drug, but they may also be holding others hostage and taking it by force. Chris feels the whole operation may be a trap to lure heroes in, but Mattie begs Johnny not to tell - she wants him to lay off for a couple more days while she researches ways to stop the dealers. Johnny finally gives in, and sarcastically apologizes - he says he mistook her for someone who cared. Rolling his eyes at her, he remarks sardonically that she even had him fooled with that MGH 'sob story' of hers.
Mattie snaps. Holding Johnny angrily by his shirt, she growls about how he wakes up feeling self-righteous and how he feels he has the right to judge her. While Chris holds Mattie back from a shocked Johnny, she continues with her tirade, saying that Johnny isn't fooling anyone. She knows exactly what this is all about. She says she knows the only reason Johnny really wants to tell the group about how they stopped big, bad Nekra is because he thinks Julie will be impressed enough to jump into bed with him. Backing off, she tells Johnny if he wants to really tell the group, fine; but at least when he does it, he does it because he believes in it - not because he's looking for a little action. She then storms out the pub. Chris gives Johnny an odd look, and asks if what Mattie said was actually true. Johnny doesn't answer the question, but asks Chris about what he thinks. Chris suggests they continue to keep the secret to themselves, and give Mattie the time she needs. But, even after Chris leaves, Johnny stares at his reflection in the Ricochet disc, wondering if it's really a good deed.
The Holy Trinity Church - later that evening:
Excelsior sit around in a circle, silently. Chris, Mattie and Johnny are awkwardly staring off in different directions. Phil (Green Goblin) notices, and remarks about how "talkative" they are. Standing up, Phil decides to talk about Nekra and the 'mystery heroes' that stopped her. Chris, Mattie and Johnny's heads snap up, immediately thinking that Phil has figured it out, but it turns out he hasn't. Given the situation in New York for the past few months (the Civil War) it makes sense that heroes and villains have moved to Los Angeles. While this is also a concern, it can be an opportunity as well - not only is this an opportunity to test Excelsior's main mission, but to also help other young heroes join them in putting their powered pasts behind them. They've accepted a pledge and made a promise that helped their transition into a more normal life. Phil ponders about how there may be others who want to get out of the superhero game, and start afresh. That's why he wants them to join their "family". Phil then turns to Johnny and reminds him that this week, it's his turn to talk about his past. Johnny gets up, and re-introduces himself. Instead of talking about his past, he wants to talk about something along the lines of what Phil said. Johnny says he has a confession to make; Mattie and Chris are tense, hoping that Johnny won't expose them.
Johnny reveals that he hates his life. He apologizes for saying it, but he feels that he doesn't think he's cut out for a so-called 'normal life.' He thought that was what he wanted, but now he's not sure. Does hiding who he is make himself a better person? Johnny slowly informs the group that he never told them the real reason why he came out to LA.
flashback:
Sighing, he reveals that back in New York he got a friend of his killed. Memories immediately start running through his mind. Back when he used to run with the Slingers, his best friend was Eddie McDonough, who went by the name Hornet. He was the one who made him his throwing Ricochet discs. Even after the Slingers broke up, Eddie and Johnny still used to hang out, in and out of costume. As time went on though, both started to put their masks on for different reasons. Eddie loved being a hero. He felt it was their responsibility to continue in the work they started as the Slingers. Fighting crime, taking down bad guys, protecting the innocent ... Eddie was Hornet for the right reasons. Johnny, on the other hand, would fight crime and feel good knocking out a thug's teeth ... to save the damsel in distress. He loved the spotlight; his name on the news, the fame, and other benefits (him sleeping with the girls he saved). But after he started to lose some of the fame, he felt there was no point in putting the costume back on.
Eddie had done his best to try and motivate Johnny into going back into saving lives - Hornet and Ricochet, slinging again. He never took him up on the offer. Then one night, Eddie called Johnny and practically begged him for his help. He'd gotten wind of something big that would put both of them back on the map. Johnny, however, laughed and told him they'd be better off burning the map. He wished him luck and hung up, not knowing that would be the last thing he ever said to him. Eddie died a few hours later. He got killed going up against a threat he knew he couldn't handle (Wolverine)... but that was Eddie. He lived to protect the innocent. He died because Johnny turned his back on him.
present:
Johnny lifts the Ricochet throwing disc Eddie had given him, and whispers his apology. The rest of Excelsior stare at the floor in silence. Johnny tells them he wanted to get away from the guilt and start fresh, and put his past behind him. When he hooked up with Excelsior, he couldn't believe his luck - he found other people whose lives were screwed up by their powers just as much as his was. And when they did put their costumes on (when Excelsior stopped Ultron) he felt happy. He thought he was doing Eddie proud. Johnny reveals that he loathes the fact they are hiding in a basement, denying who they are - he feels it is their responsibility to make the world a better place. Angry, he storms out the room. Although Mickey (Turbo) wants to stop him, Julie (Lightspeed) prevents her, reminding her that she jumped of a roof last week. Sometimes, you've got to fall a little on your own before you can pick yourself back up.
Johnny's apartment - later that night:
Johnny sits in his dark apartment, morose. He stares around the room, where his Ricochet discs and outfits are lying upon the ground. Looking at the computer screen, he remembers about Nekra and the MGH dealer's operation. Finally, he makes his decision. Donning the outfit, he decides to go and stop them. He decides he does need some help, so he calls Mattie who rejects his call because she is still annoyed with him. He calls Chris, who also rejects the call because he is on a date ... with Mickey. As Chris picks up Mickey from her home, she asks if he's heard from Johnny. Chris looks down at the call he just rejected, and says he hasn't heard from him. He feels Johnny needs some time to himself.
Elsewhere, however, Ricochet stands outside the MGH dealer's new base of operations and realizes he's alone. Bitterly, he realizes this is how Hornet felt when he rejected him. Sneaking into the grounds, he secretly gloats about how Chris was wrong about it being a trap. But upon sneaking into the silent lab, he feels Chris may have been right. Johnny walks around the lab, and notices experimental pods all lined up with unconscious women in the water. Horrified, he stares as a pod with a scratches on it, but someone from behind him calls "I knew you'd come ... partner!"
Ricochet turns around and sees a woman carrying swords. The enraged lady attacks Ricochet in revenge, but a confused Ricochet attempts to defend himself. He tells her she must have mistaken him for someone else, but she reveals she came to LA after hearing he lived here. Ricochet finally gets it; she is Delilah, the crazy assassin that teamed up with ... the first Ricochet. He tells her he is the second Ricochet to wear this costume, a new an improved one - like Ricochet 2: Electric Boogaloo.
Delilah doesn't believe him, and Ricochet knows she only hears what she wants to hear. Taking out a Ricochet disc, he realizes that being a super hero is a lot like living in LA - it's not about "What's Now!", but about "What's Next?" It's about anticipating your opponent's moves before they even make them, and that's how your always one step ahead of the game. Ricochet throws the disc, and it crashes through the pod with the scratches. Delilah, confused, doesn't notice Ricochet behind her - he promptly knocks her out. At the same time, stepping out of the crashed experimental pod is the frightening mutant formerly known as Penance, of Generation X, now known as Hollow. Hollow flexes her long claws, glaring at Ricochet. Shocked, Ricochet steps back and realizes that their way of life can be reflected in the names of certain movies as well. Like Psycho. In Cold Blood. And even Death Wish.


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[Assistant]
What Lies Beneath
Los Angeles, California:
Phil Urich (Green Goblin) recounts what happened previously in a letter to himself. His Daily Bugle reporter uncle, Ben Urich, once wrote, 'Madness consumed every Green Goblin.' Every single one of them... but him. Long ago, Phil had told himself that he'd break the curse by being a Goblin, not becoming one. He refused to be haunted by the ghosts of the past. After his Goblin costume was destroyed, he moved out here to LA to start fresh. He quickly found out that he wasn't alone - he hooked up with Mickey Musashi, another ex-New Yorker and ex-super hero trying to start over.
While trading vigilante war stories, the two were reminded of how often they did more harm than good. Increased membership into their group meant increased temptation... some members felt the urge to put on their costumes again. Phil, being the only one without his costume, admits to himself that it does bother him. It actually hurts more when they lie about it. Phil is pretty sure it was Darkhawk, Spider-Woman and Ricochet who went out and busted up the MGH lab; he saw the looks on their faces when he brought it up at the meeting. He knew that Mattie must have 'charmed' Chris and Johnny to do her dirty work, but he worries if Mickey might go. Would she lie to him? It couldn't be Julie - her lights would have been a dead giveaway.
 Phil worries that he thinks the others feel sorry that he can't do what they do. Phil goes into a stream of bitter thoughts... let them keep their secrets. He doesn't need their pity. He knows they're weak. That's it... they're not as strong as he is. They can't put their pasts behind them. Him? He's in control... like when he was the Goblin. The ghosts that haunted the previous Green Goblins never got the better of him! He knows how to handle them. He's locked them away inside, never to be seen again. The joke's on Excelsior. Phil ends off his letter by repeatedly writing a maniacal "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"
A hospital bathroom – night:
As Phil vomits into the toilet, he thinks to himself - if there was one word he'd use to sum up his life, it'd have to be control. He likes having it... but hates losing it, like how he is right now (he vomits more). Getting up, he begins to pull himself together. He kept a tight reign upon his life; there should be no reason a little stress right now should freak him out. However... confrontation of any kind always sickens him. When he knows there's a fight coming, he can feel himself slowly slipping away. As he washes his face beside the sink, he realizes he must pull himself together - after all, how can he lead a group of misfit ex-super heroes when he can't even control the demons that lurk inside of him? The devilish spirit of the Green Goblin stares out at him from the bathroom mirror.
Phil leaves the bathroom, all the while thinking of the enemy within him. The skeleton in his closet - the devil inside. Phil can call it whatever he wants, but just when he thinks he put a wall between him and his past... his past always comes back to haunt him. As Phil walks down the hospital hall, he reflects on how he used to call himself the 'Heroic' Green Goblin. He didn't have any powers of his own, just what came with his the costume that he inherited. After the suit was destroyed, he told himself he was finished with the superhero life. A reason why he's been doing his best to help others follow in his footsteps. Because, if there is one thing he has learned from being a super hero, it's that no matter how hard you try to do the right thing, someone always gets hurt. And the last thing anyone needs is more blood on their hands... quite unlike Johnny Gallo (Ricochet) who has blood spattered all over him. Phil has arrived in the lobby of the hospital, where Johnny, Mickey (Turbo), Mattie (Spider-Woman) and Chris (Darkhawk) are sitting. No Julie Power (Lightspeed).
Phil storms angrily over to Johnny, who is still in his Ricochet gear. Phil is enraged with Johnny's betrayal - going behind their backs and re-donning his costume. Has he even been listening for the past months? He grabs Johnny's bandage angrily and shows him how someone could have gotten hurt. Phil tells Johnny that this is what happens when he puts on his mask - Mickey, however, stops the fight by reminding them that this still is a hospital. She tells Phil that there will be time for lectures later; Johnny already feels bad enough about what happened to...
At the same time, a Dr. Steves drives Julie Power by in a gurney. Julie is sick and pale. Although Excelsior immediately rush towards her, Dr. Steves backs them off, telling them that Julie made it through surgery and is in a stable condition. Fortunately, the lacerations she suffered were clean - almost surgical. Steves gives them a hardened look and asks what happened to her. Chris, Mickey, Phil and Mattie sheepishly make up excuses, but Johnny remains silent. Steves knows they are lying, but leaves them to it. She does, however, mention that with all the new registration laws (the Superhuman Registration Act), he is legally obligated to report it to the authorities. Phil immediately tells Steves that Julie is registered - but retired. Phil turns to the rest of Excelsior and bitterly adds to Dr. Steves, "They're all retired". Mickey asks what Phil means by 'They.' Dr. Steves is relieved to hear that Julie is registered, but he plans on informing her parents of what happened to their daughter. Even though he doesn't have all the answers they'll be looking for. Once Dr. Steves leaves, Excelsior turns upon Johnny, and Phil asks Johnny for answers they'll all be looking for. Johnny finally explains.
flashback - MGH base of operations:
Hollow steps out of her experimental pod, flexing her claws at Ricochet, all the while fearfully looking around the room. With a frightening monstrous appearance, she stands the same size as Ricochet, even though she is crouching down. Hollow makes eye contact with Ricochet, and immediately lunges at him; Ricochet knocks her back inside her crashed pod.
 Just before Hollow steps back out, in a swirl of rainbow colors, Lightspeed bursts into the room. Lightspeed's lights dazzle Hollow, and is almost lured into a false sense of security. Lightspeed comforts Hollow by putting her hand on her shoulder. For a second, Hollow stares morosely down at the end. She then glares at the hand, and quick as a flash, she lunges her claws straight through Lightspeed's chest. Ricochet catches Lightspeed before she falls, and grabs her and runs to the hospital. Hollow sees them run off, a tear slowly trickling down her monstrous face. As Phil listens to the story, he thinks, "Once a monster, always a monster."
The hospital lobby – now:
Johnny finishes his story. Chris comforts him, and tells him he did the right thing bringing her to the hospital. Mattie also agrees - there was nothing he could have done. Phil, however, asks what he was doing in a Fujikawa lab in the first place. A horrible realization comes to Johnny - Hollow wasn't the only woman in an experimental pod.
 Johnny tells Excelsior there are other women there, being held captive just like Hollow. He manages to rush outside the hospital, but Phil, Chris and Mickey hold him back. Standing in the parking lot, Phil tells Johnny that he's had no idea what he's gotten himself into. Staying out of this kind of trouble is exactly why they formed this group. Mattie becomes enraged - she immediately sides with Johnny; when you have powers, responsibilities come with them. They have to save those innocent women.
Phil snaps at Mattie, and tells her he is sick of hearing what she has to say. How do they even know that the women are innocent? For all they know, Johnny could have even broken into a legal operation. If they call the cops, they themselves may get arrested. Despite this, Mattie still feels it was a MGH operation. Phil ignores her, and asks if Mickey has anything to say. With the group’s pressure on her, Mickey sides with Johnny and Mattie - they need to find out who did this to Julie. Chris says they don't have to look that far ... Hollow is standing there at the other end of the parking lot.
Johnny becomes shocked - he doesn't know how she found them. Mattie suggests it may have been a tracking ability; she followed the smell of blood. Although Phil warns the group not to do anything, Chris immediately activates his Darkhawk amulet and Mattie's spider-legs emerge from her back. Phil wonders if anything he says sinks in. The monstrous Hollow fearfully backs away from Excelsior. But as Phil stares at Hollow, he wonders ... "Once a monster, always a monster?" Despite Excelsior's warnings, Phil walks towards Hollow, realizing he knows what it's like to feel misunderstood. About not judging someone by their appearance. Phil and Hollow, two monsters often misunderstood stare at one another, understanding each other. Hollow slowly pulls him into a kiss, and after pulling away, she whispers "Like". Suddenly, there is a loud hissing noise from behind them. As Hollow shields Phil protectively, a voice calls out "I see your senses are as keen as ever, Hollow".
Materializing from invisibility is a Japanese woman, the assassin Delilah, and several other gun-wielding men. The Japanese woman is Miss Fujikawa, the head of the MGH dealer's operation. Fujikawa walks towards Excelsior and Hollow and tells them that Hollow running away has cost her a substantial amount of money. Fujikawa walks towards Hollow, but Phil smacks her away. Fujikawa warns Phil not to touch her again. She knows who he and Excelsior are; they've been a thorn in her side for a while. Since Excelsior had stopped Nekra, she had been forced to release all her other donors from her old lab. She does not plan on losing Hollow.
 Although Phil tells her that it wasn't them who stopped Nekra, Miss Fujikawa tells him to keep better watch on his teammates. Spider-Woman snaps, and calls Fujikawa a twisted witch for harvesting innocent people for her sick MGH experiments. Fujikawa tells Mattie she doesn't care; it's profit to her. She does not let morals get in the way of her business. Right before Spider-Woman and Darkhawk attack Fujikawa, Mickey stops the fight. She is bitter with the secret Darkhawk, Spider-Woman and Ricochet had kept from the rest of Excelsior. Walking towards Miss Fujikawa, Mickey speaks to her in Japanese, so both of them can settle matters. Fujikawa agrees. Mickey and Miss Fujikawa walk off, ready to settle problems.
Sometime later, the two finish their conversation, bowing to one another when finished. Miss Fujikawa, Delilah, and the other gun-wielding men soon disappear, even without taking Hollow. Spider-Woman asks Mickey what she said to Fujikawa to make her go away. Mickey responds by saying it's all done. She made their problems go away ... but that answer isn't good for Spider-Woman. She pressures Mickey into spilling the details about the deal she made with her, but Mickey angrily starts yelling at Mattie. Mickey was the one who cleaned up Spider-Woman's mess. Mickey looks around her and roars at Spider-Woman, Darkhawk and Ricochet. They're at a hospital. They're no longer super heroes. This whole thing would have spun out of control; people would've gotten hurt. But she settled the matter for now; she isn't happy about it, but she made the best of a situation that they should never have been with. Mickey ends her tirade by saying if they aren't happy with that they should feel free to leave. Darkhawk attempts to comfort Mickey, but she rejects him.
Phil Urich's apartment - Sometime later:
Excelsior's lives have a habit of losing control, and Phil hates it. He walks around his apartment, to where Hollow is sleeping on the living room floor. As he covers her with a blanket, Phil accepts that even though he hates losing control, he knows that life goes on - and they have to move on. He does know that losing control has a way of showing everyone's insecurities; but no matter what, whenever he looks in the mirror, he's forced to confront the demons lurking within. Whether it's the pain of regret (a scene cuts to a lonely Mickey in her bed), the need for vengeance (Mattie sits by herself at a bar), the guilt that eats them up inside (Johnny in his apartment, holding his Ricochet outfit), the secrets they run from (Julie, in a swirl of rainbow light escapes the hospital), the anger they hide (Chris, pounding against a wall) or the pasts they deny (Phil stares at the spirit of the Green Goblin, in the mirror). Phil understands that some of them are just better at locking away their true natures.