Memorial Day Reunion.

Abby went to visit her father's grave today. She broke down and cried a lot, saying that her father was the first friend she ever had and she missed him so very much. I comforted Abby as best I possibly could. Schiller and Marcel stopped by. Meeting with this gentle elderly couple helped to cheer up Abby significantly. When Abby was feeling better, she asked where Tefé was, as our daughter hadn't returned home yet. I explained how Tefé was still in California after leaving her cult. She was visiting the grave of her loyal friend Barnabus Tookoome.
I received this e-mail detailing Tefé's unexpected interaction with our family friend Suzy, about how another reunion came, resulting in a rather shocking surprise for Tefé:


re: Tefé Holland wrote:

"Dad. After Zaina and I returned to Titans Tower after seeing Barnabus' grave today, you'll never guess who I ran into next: Suzy. There Suzy was, with her friend Tim Hunter, talking to Raven about options on how to free the Shadowpact. Apparently, it's going to take three months just to get one of them safely out of the dome they're locked up in, and the one most likely candidate for rescue is Detective Chimp. Suzy was pretty damned pissed that she couldn't get Raven to save all of them. Tim Hunter, who's much more powerful than Raven, or Zatanna, or any other magician, insisted to Suzy that Raven knew what she was talking about. Raven was more concerned about the recent disappearance of the Martian Manhunter, who's been acting strangely lately. It looks like the Martian has got himself kidnapped by a divergent supervillain again. This time he was taken by a mad scientist from an alternate dimension who calls himself Captain Koma. Raven started to explain to Suzy and her friend about how the reappearance of divergent realities with alternate Earths could start up another Infinite Crisis, even though this Koma loser isn't anywhere near Alex Luthor's league. Suzy said J'onn can save himself and will deal with Koma on his own. She only cared about saving the Shadowpact. Raven was about to argue with Suzy over this point some more. But then, Raven saw me coming, and she headed off in the other direction in a big rush, without even finishing her talk with Suzy. Why is it I have that kind of impact on people? Anyway, Suzy lightened up and she was really glad to see me. We hugged, then I found out a little more of how Suzy's pheromones work. Zaina saw Suzy as a prissy blonde overdressed and repressed secretary type and not as the naked purple nymph we know her to be. Suzy's pal "Timmy" couldn't help but laugh at the way Zaina carried on, since he hadn't seen anyone under the influence of Suzy's pheromones all day. Either that, or Timmy's a total perv like his mentor John Constantine. Whatever. Now, here's where it got weird. After this Hunter guy was completely convinced I haven't got my powers back yet, [and I think he was flirting with me, which didn't make Zaina too happy!], Suzy said it was time we all went to what's left of San Diego, [the suburbs that didn't get hit by that huge-ass tidal wave to become Sub-Diego]. Suzy said it was time for me to learn the truth about my first-ever childhood friend Maxine Baker. Did you know Lady Blackhawk is just as good a limo driver as she is a pilot? Suzy was just glad to be back riding around in one for the day, not having done so in the last four months, courtesy of Zinda's boss: Oracle. It made Zaina's head spin too! When we arrived, I was the only one to get out. Zaina liked the air-conditioning too much to brave the heat, and Suzy was too busy having an argument with Timmy to give any further attention to me. I barefooted my way on over the hot sidestreet pavement into the driveway of the Baker home. I stopped for a second to cool off my heat-scorched bare feet on the freshly cut front lawn, the grass underfoot felt wonderfully cold and wet with all those sprinklers going. That was sweet. There's this huge sign spread over the house saying: "WELCOME HOME, HERO!"
I guessed Maxine must still live with her parents, as this was clearly meant for her dad, Animal Man. The lady of the house had just now finished mowing the frontyard. She was wearing this sexy little tube-top sports-bra thing, along with the cutest red short-shorts, and yes of course, she's barefoot, just like rest of us. She looked great. She washed her hair under a garden hose to cool down. She didn't see me coming when I just walked up. I got this awesomely hot pic of her when she turned off the water to look up. She warmly welcomed me."

"I told "Maxine" how beautiful she looked, reintroducing myself as Tefé, and I gave her a big hug! Then she told me she wasn't Maxine, but her mother Ellen. She said she's already talked to Suzy on the phone about today's visit. Ellen said she was flattered to be mistaken for Maxine. Suzy walked up behind me and asked if I was surprised by Ellen's strangely youthful appearance. It didn't surprise me at all, having been prematurely aged myself. Ellen showing no signs of aging just means she's luckier than my mom, who's only just beginning to age at 50. Suzy said that's not it. She said Ellen isn't really middle-aged at all. She stopped aging years ago. Suzy said the real surprise was going to come from Maxine and her brother Cliff. Ellen put on one of her husband's old t-shirts, opened the gate to her backyard, and bid us to follow her. I was shocked to see little Barefoot Maxie when I took this picture of her, turning her back to me as she did to her own future apparently."

"Ellen tells me Max is always going to be like this. Even Tim Hunter couldn't believe it. And Zaina kept saying this was some kind of sick joke and Ellen had to be the real grown-up Maxine. But I know the truth when I see it. Suzy, Tim, and I took turns trying to reintroduce ourselves to Maxine. But little Max kept calling us fakers. She hadn't seen her real friends in Free Country all that long ago and we couldn't possibly be grown-ups now in her mind. Maxine said we were all liars, and for some reason her taunts really hurt. Ellen said her kids don't recognize the passage of time. They'll never grow up, and Ellen will never grow old. Black Orchid said this somehow took place when Animal Man returned from a trip to Earth-Prime on a mission to resurrect his dead family. That's why this happened. Destiny itself was changed to bring about an otherwise impossible resurrection. The lives of Ellen and her kids are frozen in time. We will fix this someday, so they'll age normally, but for now I realize that Ellen, Maxine, and Cliff are stuck this way! Now I realize why it was so important to see Maxine today, expressly for this reason. All your talk about making your own destiny, Dad? It's all true. You were always so right. Even about Poison Ivy. I'll never doubt you again! Promise. Love you always, Barefoot Tefé."

I'm so glad Tefé has managed to learn this. It is an important lesson
I could never have taught her myself. We never control destiny, but we still manage to influence our fates. The future depends upon this. In the end, all we have is our memories and our intentions of design.


Next:
Dealing With Another Crisis.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/06/dealing-with-another-crisis.html

The Question: Seeking Answers.

Barefoot Renée Montoya. The Question's Daring New Partner!

I've received an e-mail from the mysterious vigilante known as
the Question tonight that raises as many questions as it answers:


re: The Question wrote:

"When does it become practical to ask a monster, from where do monsters come, Swamp Thing? This is the Question I ask of you tonight. Gotham City: My partner Renée Montoya was on a stakeout when she witnessed a large hulking figure enter the building she was watching on my behalf. Detective Montoya followed the creature inside and realized that she was being followed by the Question. She went to turn on the lights, but she wound up triggering a trap door. The creature threw a crate at her. She jumped out of the way and then was swatted aside by the creature. The creature then attacked the Question. I was saved when my partner fatally shot the creature with one of the high-tech weapons that was in the crate. So what was this creature? It certainly was not Solomon Grundy, Killer Croc, or any other known quantity. Let this be the Question that is set with you. Now, permit me to unvex you with another Question. How does a such a creature as the Floronic Man escape you without being witnessed? Could it be this little problem may not be as large as it seems? Consider these facts and questions most carefully. Interpet them at your best discretion. Inquisitively yours, The Question."

I have no idea what sort of new monsters have been unleashed upon Gotham. However, this mention of Woodrue not being as large as he seems has got me to thinking. Perhaps the Floronic Man may be smaller now? Then he would have escaped with King Toad unseen! Now I have an answer, it seems. The only question remaining tonight is if the Question and Renée Montoya will be able to solve the mysteries that clearly stand out before them...


Next:
Memorial Day Reunion.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/memorial-day-reunion.html

Tefé's Cult Experience.

Was Barefoot Tefé's New Faith Misplaced?

Tefé and Zaina took part in the activities of Cassandra Sandsmark's cult this weekend. Tefé has learned a lot about herself in this experience, as her e-mail demonstrates:

re: Tefé Holland wrote:

"Dad. I went to Titans Tower and met with Cassie yesterday. Zaina and I were ordained into her cult just a few hours afterward. It was actually kind of fun. Zaina kept telling me how hot I looked in the black and red hooded robes we wear. She's so damn shallow, but that's why I love her so much, because Zaina's crazy about me. Cassie, on the other hand, is just plain crazy. Anyway, Ralph Dibny was really stand-offish about joining, and he's been a part of this almost as long as Cassie. He didn't like it that the older members of the cult like himself weren't talking, and the younger members like me didn't really know anything, but that we were just along for the ride. Dibny wanted answers. He's been staying with Cassie for well over a week now, but he doesn't feel the intimacy has availed him very much. Dibny thinks Cassie is using him. I'm not surprised. Today we went down into an underground cavern under Titans Tower where Dibny was to finally have his initiation.

He wanted to know about the cult's promise of resurrection. He thinks Cassie is going to bring Conner Kent back to life, and if she does then Dibny wants his wife Sue back as well. There was a pool of water in the caves the believers say, “immersions in the striped waters of the river Memon granted visions of the afterlife”. They asked Dibny to get in and told him the payment is not money but something more significant. He said that Sue was all he had. Cassie held his hand tightly. We then submerged him in the water. When he came back up he found himself alone. Our group was gone, heading back to the surface via a secret route. He must have learned as well that his wedding ring to his dead wife was gone. Cassie snagged it, before she shoved him under the water. What a very un-superhero thing to do. A Teen Titan robbing a former Justice League member. Really! What a way to break things off. Dibny must have really felt put out. I wonder if he really saw the afterlife when he was underwater? It was probably a one-shot deal anyway. Guess I'm not going to find out what happens next, because at our high temple of worship, Zaina got impatient and wanted to make out with me. It's not that kind of cult, wait until after hours I told her. Zaina didn't get it. She was reprimanded by Cassie for not giving Conner his proper praise. Zaina said we can't make churches for every superhero who dies while saving the world. Cassie rejected her from the cult and told her to leave, as she was an unbeliever. I opted to leave, too. Cassie asked why should I depart the cult? Don't I want to restore my lost powers and reunify my still-remaining connection to the Green? She says if I don't do that, then I'll eventually suffer the same fate as Jade, only it will happen here on Earth. I said I've lost enough, I don't want to lose Zaina too. I know this Kryptonian connection thing is the right track, what with Superman's near death experiences before Doomsday, one of which you were involved in saving Superman from his Scarlet Jungle Fever, Dad. But I had to look after Zaina. She could get into some pretty bad stuff again. Anyhow, Sunday School's over for me. I'm out of the cult and as soon as I take Zaina home, I'll be back with Mom soon enough. I still wish I knew how all this cult business will turn out. Zaina and I went skinny dipping in the caves tonight and camped out there afterwords. Zaina likes the way our voices are echoing in these awesome caverns. No images of the afterlife, though. No matter how long I stay down nude underwater.
I think we can work things out. I can't wait to see you again. You're still the best Dad ever, even if you screw things up a lot. Tell Mom I'm doing fine. Turns out Zaina had 175 dollars more in travel money than I thought we had, and--Oh, crap! That's Mr. Dibny's credit card. Damn. Zaina took his wallet. Well, this certainly sucks. We've gotta get the hell out of here, in case he comes back. That guy's a fucking psychopath. We better haul ass, real fast! Talk to you later, Dad. Love, Barefoot Tefé."

Tefé will be returning home soon. This is very good news indeed. Perhaps her interaction with this cult has prepared her to deal with the dangerous times we have ahead of us.


Next:
The Question: Seeking Answers.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/question-seeking-answers.html

A Close Call For Steel.

Can John Henry Irons Survive The Dangers Lex Luthor Throws His Way?

I was watching television with Abby at her house today, when a news broadcast came on. Steelworks Laboratory in Metropolis exploded this morning. John Henry Irons, the director and foreman of the company was missing and presumed dead. Has Lex Luthor taken another life? We wondered. Later, around 3:45 P.M. the electrical power to Abby's house was lost. She pulled the drapes up, and said it wouldn't be a problem if it didn't last too long. The electricity came back on at 4:30 P.M. and Abby was glad the power outage caused by a switch failure only lasted 45 minutes. When the television came on, we saw Steel was very much alive. He was encased in his familiar armor and speaking live to reporters. He claimed what happened to Steelworks was an accident and he was glad no fatalities took place. It would seem Steel's troubles with Luthor are only beginning. As for the local power failure here in Houma, I can't shake the feeling that Woodrue was somehow responsible. Yes, the future for everyone is starting to grow darker. I will be staying with Abby tonight, and make for certain she will be safe. Let us hope that Steel can do the same, protecting the people of Metropolis.


Next:
Tefé's Cult Experience.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/tefs-cult-experience.html

The Return of Poison Ivy!

Pamela Isley Has Made An Apology.
Should We Have Accepted Her Back Into The Family?

Poison Ivy returned to Houma on this day, the National "Sorry Day" of the Australians to their Aboriginies. Tefé seems to think it may be too late, and the decision of whether or not to accept Poison Ivy's return to the bayou may already be out of my hands...

re: Tefé Holland wrote:

"Dad, Poison Ivy was at the house tonight! Me and Mom just got back from some late night shopping. We were talking about the lawyers who fought in court over unpaid legal fees today. Mom doesn't think much of the local courts as it is, with all the hassles you guys got from the legal system years ago about your relationship being brought into question before I was born. And lo and behold, who do we find striding barefoot on down the stairs other than Poison Ivy! Mom was seriously pissed!!! Poison Ivy tried to kill our favorite family friend Suzy at the Battle of Metropolis. Ivy has some damned nerve to show up here tonight, at our house! I asked what the hell does she think she's doing, hiding out in our home? Ivy admitted to being pretty scared of you, now that she's finally gone and crossed the line. Ivy says she's no better than Joker, Hush, Two-Face, Penguin, or any of the other crazy whack-jobs in Gotham. But she wanted Mom and me to convince you to give her a second chance to help find her way. Mom screamed at Ivy to get out, and go find her own way out of our lives, saying that we're going to get enough serious problems out of Woodrue and King Toad when they return to give us more hell. Mom says we don't need any more crazy back-stabbing out of Poison Ivy! But Ivy just sat down on the stairs and she cried her eyes out. Mom was about to grab her, but I stopped Mom and told her it's not safe to touch Poison Ivy, not when Ivy's all upset like this. I asked Mom to let me handle it. I told her I'd be okay and not to worry about me. Mom went into the living room and told me to do whatever I want to, just get Poison Ivy out of our house.
I told Ivy to follow me outside, and I wasn't going to tell her again.
I know, I know. Empty threat, since my powers are gone. But it worked. Once we were out back, I told her if she really wants to make good on her promises, then she has to go find Jason Woodrue for you and single him out, since she knows him better than anyone. She said she heard Woodrue was killed in Metropolis. I told her Woodrue is just as immortal as you, and you're the only one who can kill him, before Woodrue wipes out Houma forever and kills all of us. Then I told her about Nerk and Bob's rampage with the explosives, and about Woodrue getting King Toad out of your Prison Tree just after that. Then I mentioned my own fears about the underground methane deposits that are sitting under the town. Woodrue touches those, and we're all dead. Ivy said she would have to think this all over. Before I could try to stop her--she just ran away! She literally went running scared for her own stupid life. I can't believe you entertained the notion of letting this coward into our family circle. I'm so disappointed in you, Dad. Poison Ivy is so totally worthless, why didn't you see that? She'll never be heroic, let alone ever become a worthy protector of the Green. What a waste of time! That's it. I've had it.
I'm going to join Wonder Girl's cult. Mom says go. She doesn't care anymore, just as long as I'm safe and taking care of myself. We all know I can do that. So it's up to you to save Houma and look after Mom. I'm done here. Good-bye. Barefoot Tefé."

Tefé has indeed abandoned me because of this. Abby says she is glad our daughter had the good sense to leave us. Perhaps this whole business with Poison Ivy is my fault. I honestly don't know what to think right now. My daughter hates me and wants nothing more to do with me. I feel so terrible. Tonight was indeed a very sorry time.


Next:
A Close Call For Steel.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/close-call-for-steel.html

A Good Quiet Day For The Holland Family.

Today proved to be a most excitingly pleasant Ascension Day.
I arrived early at Abby's house this morning to join in the family's gardening of Abby's annual cucumber crop. She received a phone call from Suzy, saying that several of the space heroes are now missing, in addition to there being no change in the Shadowpact's situation. Abby asked Suzy to settle down and just relax her troubled mind, insisting that everything would turn out to be fine for everyone who is currently unaccounted for. This is exactly what Suzy needed to hear. My wife Abby is so good and excellently dependable in handling uneasy situations such as this. After getting off the phone with my young partner, my wife and daughter went out into the backyard with me to attend our gardening. Once Abby showed Tefé how to settle the cucumbers, Tefé's natural knack for gardening proved to be impressive indeed. When the women were done with their garden arrangements, both looked upon me with great anticpation. Placing my hands into the earth, I felt the slow growth of the cucumbers. Speeding up the growth process, the crop sprang forth much to my family's delight. Harvesting the large cucumbers, Abby made a splendid salad. Abby and Tefé enjoyed eating the salad very much, as they showered me with compliments on how delicious it was. Tefé picked up a couple of towels and left us for the day. She was going to spend some quality time in a local spa's sauna room with her girlfriend Zaina. This left Abby enough privacy with me to spend the rest of the day to our own love-making, putting my own personal cucumber to a very different use! When Tefé made it home earlier tonight, Abby insisted I return to my duties in the swamp and check up on my old friend Jordan Schiller. Abby thanked me gratefully before I left, for another glorious time spent together romantically, as always. Abby said she knew that I would "rise" to this occasion. It's good to know I can always satisfy my beloved wife! Such a wonderful way to dedicate this 125th post to my weblog. Yes, I quite enjoyed today. If only every day could be so much fun and meaningful...


Next:
The Return of Poison Ivy!
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/return-of-poison-ivy.html

A Louisiana Earth Elemental In Black Adam's Court.

Today, I visited the Arab nation of Kandaq [pronounced locally as "Kahndaq", I am told]. I have met the supreme monarch of this Egyptian land, High Khan and Prophet Teth-Adam, who is known throughout the western world as Black Adam. As I approached the borders of his kingdom, I found his reaction to be most prompt.
He levitated before me, demanding an explanation for my presence.
I began to worry that my slow speech patterns would try his patience. But he listened attentively, and deigned to escort me personally to his palace. It would seem his intentions for diplomacy are genuine,
if somewhat more than heavy-handed. And indeed, I do seem to fit with his expression of seeking alliances that desire to change the world, as I have clearly done in the past. I rather tend to think he was more concerned with the changing nature of magic, for that is the source of his power. At any rate, we discussed the present states of our respective dominions. He has had to deal with issues of famine, Palestinian terrorism, domestic abuses, and invasive foreign intrusions within his borders. Black Adam was pleased to find my company so leniently compliant to his wishes. He approved that I was merely a benevolent visitor to his court seeking to address certain issues. He even explained why it is not permitted for a being such as myself to effect environmental changes in his country for the better, but to express my opinions directly to him and his court for his eventual consideration. In truth, he feels his influence alone is the only salvation his homeland has. This is why he feels he must go to such extreme lengths to protect his home and slowly incorporate it's development by his own actions. When we arrived at the subject of my own problems, he merely addressed the topic of the Floronic Man not belonging to this dimension and the prompt need for his disposal. Black Adam supports King Toad's rebellion, sadly. He would however provide asylum for my family in his own palace, should the worst for Houma come to pass. The Cajuns, he believes, should be my responsiblity alone. He posits that as the Good Gumbo Man, I am the Prophet of the Acadians, and therefore I should be the one to righteously guide and deliver them onto salvation. In the end of this counsel, while our positions did not change, it seems our separate paths have attained new directions. He will seek more constructive means to preserve his kingdom, encouraging a more open-minded standing amongest his people. Meanwhile, I am to crackdown on the Floronic Man problem. If and when Jason Woodrue is located, it is then Black Adam would be more than happy to help me destroy him, so long as Woodrue is no longer aligned with King Toad. It is with this complicated state of affairs that I left the corrupt Black Adam's country for my own. Nothing has changed here in any profound sense, but I cannot help but think today's interaction, shared understanding that was of positive effect. Perhaps someday, we will know full the implications of today's meeting in the terms Black Adam knows best. In the edicts constantly founded in ancient and modern history...


Next:
A Good Quiet Day For The Holland Family.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/good-quiet-day-for-holland-family.html

Black Adam: Has He Gone Too Far This Time?

Today is the Day of Disunity, according to the Discordianists. Is it any wonder then, that Black Adam choose to open the Embassy of Kandaq on this day? Tefé has her own thoughts on the latest extreme action on the part of Black Adam...

re: Tefé Holland wrote:

"Hey, Dad. You wouldn't believe what happened in New York City today. Black Adam was at the opening of Kandaq’s United Nations Embassy in the Big Apple with his prisoner Terra-Man, who didn't seem so trapped, but rather the outlaw cowboy seemed to be enjoying himself. Go figure. Anyway, Adam starts talking about how the world has praised their heroes but where are Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Captain Marvel, and all the other big shots now? Well, he does have a point there. He said he hopes to gather allies that will deliver a message to those wanting to talk advantage of their absence. Then he said, “The first message is simple people like this man don’t deserve to live.” He picked up Terra-Man by the seat of his pants and ripped him in two!!!! Damn, that was awesome! Scary, but awesome at the same time. Now that's the kind of treatment King Toad has coming. And this Black Adam episode was broadcast live, so everybody saw it. Yes! Adam just flew away after that, shouting back to the press, “It’s time for heroes who don’t just patrol the world, but to change it!” Admit it, this is some serious food for thought, given the danger we're facing. Anyway, this is turning out to be an intense week for watching TV. Booster Gold wins and then loses a fortune gambling with a bad investment on Sunday, then Lex Luthor clears his name on Monday, and now Black Adam gets away with "pulling" this today! Mom thinks Black Adam is completely nuts for doing that to Terra-Man, but what do you think? You've got to stop the Floronic Man somehow. Maybe you should consider doing things the "Black Adam" way. Maybe then you'll get some results. I don't know. The middle ground not be any safer than the high or low roads. But doing that put me where I am now and I guess I'm happy, if still a little scared. So give this Black Adam guy's methods a little consideration, okay? It may sound extreme, but remember, we are all still in danger here at home. They're still fighting one of the fires down the street. We have no idea if Nerk and Bob bought it when they blew all that stuff up, trying to kill the town. King Toad escaped from you, the next day. You have no idea where Jason Woodrue is. And Suzy's going nuts looking for ways to save the Shadowpact. All the more reason to look into every option available to keep Houma safe, like Black Adam is doing for Kandaq. Keep working at it, Dad. You're still the best. Love, Barefoot Tefé."

Perhaps I should reserve judgment in the case of Black Adam until
I meet with him personally to settle this matter. Tomorrow, I should
pay the monarch of Kandaq a proper visit. Yes. I will do exactly that.


Next:
A Louisiana Earth Elemental In Black Adam's Court.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/louisiana-earth-elemental-in-black.html

Lex Luthor's Latest Deception.

Luthor Has Returned. And He's Up To His Old Tricks...

Black Orchid returned to STAR Labs for her check-up today, despite Suzy's desire to continue investigating the Shadowpact's sudden disappearance. She was curious about the situation with the apparent death of "Lex Luthor", who we believe to the corpse of the divergent young Alex Luthor altered to become an exact double for the older Lex Luthor belonging to this Earth. After seeing her doctor, Suzy lurked outside of the medical examining room to spy and await the results of the latest autopsy. To her surprise, she was only to witness the true, living Luthor's arrival upon the scene...

re: Susan Linden Thorne Weems II wrote:

"Alec, I was about to leave STAR Labs today and resume my search for the Shadowpact out west, when I heard important talk coming from the room where the alleged body of Lex Luthor was being examined. Sure enough, the identity of the body is indeed a sham. John Henry Irons, the man we know as Steel, discovered colored contact lenses. Now he knew the body was a fake. Yet, before he could actually do anything with this information, the real Lex Luthor came barging in with the press claiming that he was imprisoned in an alternate dimension, while this other Luthor went around pretending to be him, forming the Villains United Society, creating the OMACs, and nearly destroying the world. I barely had time to properly hide myself from all those people Luthor brought with him. The last thing I want is to be caught on film in a compromising situation such as this, unless it is of my own time and choosing. Fortunately, no one knew I was there, as I'd ducked behind a corner to hide myself just in time. Luckily, I was able to hear what was being said clearly, as the news programs would probably censor a lot of what was actually conversed. Luthor claimed he escaped during the Crisis which John Henry Irons can verify. John Henry has said nothing to refute this, so basically Luthor was cleared of everything on the spot! Anyway, that's what happened today. Now that he's no longer President, or a fugitive anymore, it looks like LexCorp is going to reopen. Lex Luthor is back in business. Oh, how I despise the man! The sooner I can get out of Metropolis, the better. Just thought you'd like to know about this. I'm going back to looking for ways to find or contact the Shadowpact, assuming they're still alive. I don't have time for involvement in this kind of situation. I hope Steel can manage to deal with all of this. He's the only one who can directly oppose Luthor, now that Superman is gone. Let's hope this isn't another disaster in the making.
Sincerely yours, Suzy."

Lex Luthor is back in the game, and this time there may be no one left to stop him. As if the problems of this world were not frustrating enough...


Next:
Black Adam: Has He Gone Too Far This Time?
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/black-adam-has-he-gone-too-far-this.html

A Gathering of United Heroes.

Heroes United.

I am quite enjoying my association with the Heroes: United.
It is proving to be an enlightening experience, to meet so many interdimensional survivors of the Infinite Crisis. As you can see in the ensemble picture above, even time travel is allowed to expand the ranks of the gatherings, as several of the heroes I am familiar with, would not have been present. The family joined in and had a wonderful time, of course. All-in-all--today's gathering of heroes was an incredible, wonderful, magnificent diversion. This feeling of happiness and belonging has helped to raise my spirits tremendously. Never again will I feel so alone. For truly, we are all Heroes: United.


Next:
Lex Luthor's Latest Deception.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/lex-luthors-latest-deception.html

Tefé's Graduation, Zatanna's Birthday.

Today was Tefé's high school graduation day. I cannot tell you how proud and happy I am for her! The commencement was at Terrebonne Parish Civic Center in Houma at 4:00 P.M. Sadly, an unfortunate incident came to pass, as earlier in the day her girlfriend Zaina had locked the keys in the car Tefé shared with her. Tefé was most unhappy about this, as Zaina had told too many people about her mistake. The car was broken into and stolen with ease. Abby did her best to calm Tefé down, insisting this was not the end of the world. Tefé told Abby she was counting on that car for a fast escape from Houma, should King Toad and Woodrue come out of hiding. Abby said we can protect ourselves from any danger, just as we always have. Abby just wanted a quiet graduation day. Such was not the case, as Tefé found herself seated uncomfortably amongst the graduating students. Several rowdy drunks seated directly behind her, screaming obscenities at the all-too-forgiving Principal. The same school adminstrator, Tefé pointed out, who almost flunked her out and nearly threatened to force her to repeat her final year, rather undeservingly. The noise became deafeningly painful. Tefé wanted to hit the invasively loud fools with something. But Tefé restrained herself, for she has suffered through far worse than this. After waiting a frustratingly long time, she tells me, she walked barefoot onto the stage in her line and received her diploma. Abby cheered for Tefé excitedly. The ceremony over, Abby and Tefé found themselves trapped in a crowd of people milling about. They were forced to hold hands to keep from getting separated until reaching the exit and going home. Abby wanted to stay for the reception party, but Tefé refused as she'd only be ridiculed for being a lesbian, by the bullies. Tefé was content to be home and get some well deserved rest.
Abby found out one of the congratulation cards they have received was from the mysterious Oracle, who'd obviously been Jim Gordon's help in making Tefé's graduation come to pass. This helped improve and comfort Abby's peace of mind a great deal. Tefé is just glad that, "Another long crazy nightmare is over." Indeed.


And Then, There Was Our Bathing Sexy
Beautiful Barefoot Lady-Friend, Zatanna...

Later this evening, Barefoot Suzy and I went to San Francisco, California to attend Barefoot Zatanna's 46th birthday pool party. John Constantine could not make the trip, so he sent his mutual friend Tim Hunter in his place. Suzy introduced me to her childhood friend, "Timmy" whom I only saw briefly once before at Stonehenge, on that dreadful night when the Spectre was invoked. Meeting this young man was an interesting experience. Hunter is said to be the most powerful magician living. So I asked him for some advice in handling my current situations. He proved most unequal for any of the tasks. I declined to ask specifically for his help, although the young Hunter did mention he would someday like to meet my daughter Barefoot Tefé, should she ever regain her powers. The party for Barefoot Zee was small and finished quickly since most of the guests expressed concerns for the missing Shadowpact members. The only remaining note on this occasion was the television news report observing today the act of Black Adam's slaying of members of the international criminal organization known as Intergang, in Kandaq. Shortly after watching this news report, we noticed the immortal mystic Dr. Occult had arrived, an hour late.

Barefoot Zatanna smiled at him from her place in the pool..

Zee said the party was over. She hoped everyone enjoyed it,
and she politely asked us all to leave now. This was to be
Zatanna's genuine way of celebrating her birthday, it seems.

The trenchcoated man then vanished. Instantly replaced with
a beautiful ever-perpetually barefoot woman in a summer dress.
Unexpectedly, Rose Psychic was seen standing in Occult's place.
[This ageless couple share a decades-long corporeal existence].
The eternally young barefoot flapper-styled Rose grinned at us.

Barefoot Rose quickly undressed...

...and while she barely made a splash in her clean dive...

She plunged gracefully naked into the pool, and so to our delight.

Suzy, who was still underwater, took this very lovely picture of Rose.
Zatanna laughed and removed her bikini. Rose sprinted nude toward
her, while Zee cast a spell, "Tel s'esoR yxes erab teef won eb naelc."
Rose's always bare feet were now perfectly clean. Zatanna smiled.
Her very amorous intentions toward the mystically-combined couple
were clear. Sexual excitement filled the air. It felt most pleasing.
Occult emerged on the pool's far end, and was embraced by Zatanna.
The lovers submerged. Suzy, finished with her own swimming, exited
the pool and joined us on the bench. Suzy smiled. The party was now
definitely over for the rest of us. Still, we all remained, and watched.
Zatanna and Rose emerged happily from the water for a moment.
The two beautiful nude women kissed passionately...

...while they submerged themselves gracefully yet again.
This was most remarkable, seeing the beautiful lady magician in the
water embraced by the powerful male Dr. Occult for one moment, and
her kissing the sweet lovely female Rose Psychic, with the very next.
Zatanna casually waved good-bye to us before returning underwater
to make love to Occult/Rose, in so loving each of them the same.
Understanding and loving both of them, in such a way no one else
ever would. Everyone present laughed cheerfully for this reassuring
pleasantry, and we all prepared to leave. The rest of Zee's devoted
friends showed themselves out, as Suzy and I went outside into the
garden to talk alone. We discussed the future, which seemed
appropriate. I told Suzy not to worry or despair over the Shadowpact's
fate. She insisted I do the same about the situation in Houma.
We hugged and said our good-byes. I have just returned home to the
bayou. Today was a fine day. I am so proud of my family and friends,
and everything we have accomplished. In these uncertain times,
we continue to make the most of our lives.

And that is in the best interests for everyone.


Next:
A Gathering of United Heroes.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/gathering-of-united-heroes.html

Family, Friendships, Faith!

I stayed at the cabin today, remaining inside for some odd reason, staring out the window despairingly. These human traits I am experiencing are becoming increasingly strange. Why should I feel this compulsion to hide myself away? Fortunately, Tefé came to my emotional rescue, for once. I noticed this, when she first came inside to join me, the lovely adornments decorating my daughter's leisurely always bare feet were hard to miss as I casually glanced down:

Tefé's beautiful barefoot anklets were visually pleasing to me. I don't see this sort of thing much in our marshy location outside of town. Tefé said she'd forgotten to take them off, she was glad she hadn't ruined them. When asked, she said she they were a gift sent to her in the mail when she joined an online faith cult. Tefé wanted to know what was actually on my mind, since I never make such a big deal out of something so trivial, unless something important has come up. First, I was curious about this new cult. Tefé said that's news she had yet to tell me. A couple of days ago, Tefé learned of a new religious cult devoted to Conner Kent. Cassandra Sandsmark had joined them last week and she was promoted to their leadership most recently. Tefé joined the local branch of this new cult movement and received her new jewelry today. Tefé admits she's not the spiritual type outside of our family experiences, but she is certainly curious about the Kryptonian practices of which her friend Cassie now takes part. Tefé said she's received several e-mails concerning this, especially now that private detective Ralph Dibny (the former superhero Elongated Man) has become directly involved with Wonder Girl, investigating the cult's affairs. I asked Tefé if anything else was happening in the world today. Indeed, Tefé reported yesterday the Gotham City Homicide Unit of the GCPD found the body of one
"Lex Luthor." Doubtlessly, Constantine's final arrangements for his friend Alex Luthor were as short-lived as Conner Kent's former final resting place in Smallville. Now both of these deceased young men are getting questionable attention shown in Gotham and Metropolis. Last evening, Egyptian monarch Black Adam stopped an aerial battle between Power Girl and Terra-Man over Kandaq, explaining that the superheroine was violating his country's airspace. He placed the western supervillain into his own custody, a move that is certain to stir up even more international controversy. I asked Tefé how things are at home with Abby. Tefé said everything is fine. She now has a revised report card with passing grades, and accordingly, she has received her invite to the Graduation ceremony tomorrow afternoon. Tefé is certainly glad Abby has called in her favors owed to her from James Gordon, leading to this. Tomorrow should be a good and meaningful time, even if I cannot attend Tefé's graduation day myself. There must be some form of gathering where I can discuss matters with other heroes with weblogs of their own more regularly. Yes, I shall begin an online search. If fortune is with me, I may find others with interests like my own. I have a feeling things may turn out for the best after all. No more feeling sorry for myself, that much is for certain. I cannot fall into despair again. Too much is at stake. When I told Tefé of the Shadowpact's fate, for example, she insisted I "Get a grip!" If there are other heroes out there who will have me, then I hope to find them soon. For I could use the extra friendship. Perhaps needed moral support from others faced with triumphs and frustrations will do wonders for me. We shall have to see about this.


Next:
Tefé's Graduation, Zatanna's Birthday.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/tefs-graduation-zatannas-birthday.html

The Search For The Shadowpact.

What Unknown Fate Has Happened To These Heroes?

Today I spent working with the now-recovered Black Orchid, beside Zatanna, Witchfire, and Rex the Wonder Dog in Riverrock, Wyoming. Despite the extreme measures we employed, there was no breaking into the dome in which the Shadowpact is mysteriously trapped.
The rescue effort seemed hopeless, yet we continued to try.

My partner Black Orchid became increasingly frustrated, when our combined physical strength proved useless. Suzy loves Blue Devil with all her heart. She knows him well, and has no wish of ever losing him.


The young Witchfire's pyrokinetic ablilities also proved equally useless against the mystically fortified dome. She has a strong admiration for the Enchantress and Nightshade.
Witchfire had high hopes of freeing them.


Even Zatanna's formidable mastery of magic could not remove the dome's enchantment from this plane of existence, and she finally came to tears because of it. Zatanna is very close friends with Nightmaster and Ragman, both of whom have earned her respect. She has extensive histories with every member of the Shadowpact, making their apparent loss all the more sad and tragic.


In his turn, Rex the Wonder Dog took part in our desperate attempts to free the Shadowpact, futilely biting at the dome with his teeth!
He is loyal to his lifelong friend Bobo the Chimpanzee, known to us today as Detective Chimp.


Lastly, I attempted to enter the dome from beneath the earth. Failing that, I resorted to minor geothermal gradient compression for a few seconds. Repairing the environment beneath the dome to its non-volcanic state, I was to forced to admit defeat. Without the Shadowpact, I am the only hope my home has left against the dangers we face. I soon found myself alone, everyone else having given up hope in utter frustration, or setting out to find others to redouble these desperate efforts. I simply don't know what can be done. I merely concentrated my energy on returning to the surface.

Suzy did not wait up for my return. I collected my discarded laptop and faced the impenetrable dome alone before turning back to the airplane trip home. The Shadowpact is lost to us, perhaps forever! This place may be their tomb. Depression and sheer frustration is beginning to overwhelm me. Our often-cheerful pilot Lady Blackhawk shares our sadness on this grim occasion. I don't know what to do next. I feel so lost...


Next:
Family, Friendships, Faith!
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/family-friendships-faith.html

Talking With A Stranger.

As If Things Couldn't Get Any Worse,
Now The Shadowpact Has Disappeared!

The Phantom Stranger appeared to me tonight. He explained the implications of the Spectre's war on magic. He said the world was becoming increasingly strange, and growing stranger by the minute. He said the Ninth Age of Magic was over, but the Tenth had yet to fully form. Dark evil sorcery was returning to our world, such as the dead storyteller's magic that unleashed King Toad. The Stranger said he had temporarily restored Superman's powers and sent him to investigate a mysterious blood-red dome covering over the town of Riverrock, Wyoming. When Superman failed to penetrate the dome as his powers began to permanently fade once more, the Stranger called upon the Shadowpact. The now-powerless Superman summoned Green Lantern meanwhile, who likewise failed to break the mystical barrier surrounding the town. The Stranger created a doorway for which the Shadowpact was to enter the otherdimensional vortex within. Now their fate remains unknown, perhaps it shall be for quite some time. The Stranger disappeared into the darkness as I began to question him. This is a most disturbing mystery, definitely unforseen bad news for the remaining Black Orchid and everyone concerned. Wherever the Shadowpact is now, may they return safely in time...


Next:
The Search For The Shadowpact.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/search-for-shadowpact.html

Zombie Attack!

My life is filled with the most unexpected and monstrous horrors. Case in point-- Earlier this afternoon, I was attacked by the zombies of all the 25 construction project workmen who were murdered by King Toad last December, all of whom I had buried in an unmarked mass grave, along with their equipment and the personal effects each man had carried while working out here on that unspeakably bloody day. I thought to protect the swamps, in taking King Toad as my prisoner instead of letting him, and these dead men, know the unreserved justice wrought by civilization. I only took into account the harm the environment and the Cajun Folk would suffer if I had not done this. I did not forsee the needs of men already perished. The zombies attacked me mercilessly, outraged that even in death, they could never be found by their families, friends and loved ones. They did not want their horrible fate to remain forever unknown, their pain forever unseen. So I thought deeply upon this, as they began to dismember me. Then, realizing others would come to harm after the assault upon me, I staged a counterattack. I smashed the corpses with the fury of the violated earth, and I righteously sent the dead men screaming back to their hidden grave far below me. It was a harrowing, terrifying experience for me, one that I hope never to have to repeat. Pulling myself together, but still quite shaken, I went to talk with Jordan Schiller. I told him how unfair this situation is becoming. He said he'd rather be out here with me in the bayou than anywhere else. He said if he had stayed in civiization, he'd be forced to pay back every penny he owed to the hospital. He also said I'd healed him in ways he'd never thought possible. Schiller said he was at peace. This made me feel a great deal of regret, for so much remains uncertain here. He said I had better take control of the situation then. I must find a way to stop King Toad. Too many lives are counting on me. I cannot fail. There must be a way. Somehow..


Next:
Talking With A Stranger.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/talking-with-stranger.html

Tefé: Not A Fan Of Booster Gold.

Beware False Prophets. And Corporate Sponsors!

Tefé's patience in suffering fools in the media wears thin. She perceives the perplexing celebrity status of Booster Gold, for example, as a sign of the problems in human society to come:

re: Tefé Holland wrote:

"Dad. We finally have TV reception here in Houma again, and guess who's stealing airtime on every single channel. Guess! That's right, Booster Gold! That lamebrain techno-super-idiot (who must think punching reporters in the nose he disagrees with is a good idea!) Booster Gold has got commercials, primetime coverage specials, media news circuses, even a big movie deal he's got coming up. It's getting to the point we can't even sit down to watch the tube without seeing this freejacked moron getting way too much airtime anymore. There's all this talk about Booster knowing the future and wanting to change his destiny. This idea is just plain stupid. He should have just taken the hint when the Justice League didn't reform and beat it. But no, he's still around. Just a glutton for punishment. I hope somebody settles his hash and he'll disappear in a few months. Anyway, there's plenty of stupidity to go around. The Principal called me and Mom in after school today and tried to tell us he was going to flunk me out of my damned diploma and make me repeat senior year! After all the hard work I've done to catch up on all my skip days and failed tests, that's all the thanks I get! Mom was even more pissed than I was. Mom said she was going to take this to the Board of Education if she had to. She laid the guilt trip down on him pretty heavy, saying how hard it's been for us. She even referenced you to this nitwit. Mom still talks about you like you're a normal man with an extremely difficult social disability, just to explain why you can't get involved in this kind of crap. It's just so weird. I imagine if you did show up to complain about my mistreatment in the Principal's office, he'd change his tune about me real fast! Anyway, while wasting my time watching stupid-ass Booster Gold on the aptly-named idiot box at home, Mom got to calling. She called up James Gordon out east in New Jersey for some reason, thinking the old coot who used to run the Gotham City police department could be of some help to us. Not only did Mom try to talk the old geezer into trying to get his old job back from that Akins guy who happens to be running the GCPD into the ground now, she got Gordon to help us somehow. I don't know what he told her. Mom hung up after a thankful good-bye and said he was going to reach some person who could fix things for me. She didn't know who. After a while, Mom got a call from the Principal at home saying he could straighten things out with the teachers. I am going to graduate with all my friends on the 20th. And that's assuming Jason Woodrue, King Toad, Nerk and Bob, or even Uncle Anton don't show up again to give us hell before then. Things are getting better I suppose. I wish Booster Gold would go away. His fifteen minute fame time is over! Goldenboy's so lame. He'll never be a real hero like you. He'd already know that, if he really is from the future. You're the hero who keeps us safe, even if you wussed out on stomping King Toad. You're still the best. I wish people would realize that. Love, Tefé."

Clearly Booster Gold's rise to fame, however fleeting, is simply meant to be. However, given my experiences I would provide him with this timeless warning, "Beware when playing with fire. In time you might very well be burned!" Never can this saying be any more true, when striving for fame and fortune in the public view. Let us hope such a fate never befalls Houma, or the good people out here in the bayou.


Next:
Zombie Attack!
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/zombie-attack.html

Mother's Day Memories.

Abby and Tefé Holland. The Loving Barefoot Mother and Daughter.

Abby and Tefé spent a wonderful Mother's Day together at Abby's house in Houma. I'm told the town's situation, however precarious has settled somewhat with the disappearance of King Toad. Abby considers this a sign of Houma's strength, calling it the little town that could. Tefé says everyone's just burying their heads in the sand, now that the fires are lessening in extremity. There are explosives and chemical accelerants stolen by Bad Nerk and Sissy Bob from the town's major construction company that are still left unaccounted for. The police ignored Abby's warnings about King Toad as we expected they would, instead believing the Cajun Folk are to blame. It seems Tee-Tonti's concerns are well-founded. Still, it goes against human nature to live in a state of perpetual terror. Abby and Tefé are preparing for the worst both in town and in the swamp. But our family is still hoping for the best. We must refuse to run away from all this. Perhaps all that truly matters at present is the women are living together peacefully for now. Abby and Tefé are close, bonding so beautifully more than ever, as much as our family could possibly hope. They worked together to clear the smoke from the nearby fires from the house, and handled as many neglected household chores together as possible while communicating in ways they have needed for such a long time. I came over briefly, manifesting in the backyard. A lot of the garden has burned down, but at least it protected the house. The next time we may not be so lucky. Tefé showed me some mouse traps in Abby's house, how three field mice were caught while the family was out of town. Tefé lifted one trap containing a dead rodent. She told me this is how I should consider King Toad and all of his kind. This gave me a lot to think about.
I took this lovely black-and-white picture before I left. Abby sent the image on to my laptop, which I kept at the cabin in the swamp. It's so good to see Abby and Tefé have settled their differences now. They are most comfortable in sharing company. This is a comfort to me, certainly good reason for Abby to count her blessings and celebrate this memorable Mother's Day she spent with our beloved daughter.


Next:
Tefé: Not A Fan Of Booster Gold.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/tef-not-fan-of-booster-gold.html

Black Orchid and Blue Devil: Together Again!

Suzy Is Passionately Reunited With Her Demonic Lover.
But Will This Time Their Relationship Last?

re: Susan Linden Thorne Weems II wrote:

"Alec, It's been a few days since we've talked. I think your friends and family's valiant effort to save Houma is commendable. I wish I could come out and help you get the situation under control, but I'm still laid up here at STAR Labs Medical Research in Metropolis. It's been a difficult recovery, made worse by the horrible news about what's happening in Houma. I'm so afraid for all of you! Then there was all that racket I heard a few days back, Booster Gold kept shouting at the STAR techs about his intel-hover-droid Skeets being broken. Oh, and I can't believe they took Conner Kent out of his mausoleum in Smallville and put him in Superman's old tomb here in Metropolis so they could drum up another superhero ceremony for the press. Couldn't they let the poor soul rest in peace? As for me, I'm getter better I suppose. I'm still weak as anything, but at least now I can get out of bed to feed and bathe myself. Still no steam emission from my eyes. But the air conditioning, the cooling showers, and taking in plenty of drinking water helps. The Shadowpact came to visit me too. How I've missed them all so much! Especially Blue Devil, we've hooked up again. Now I know this may be a mistake, it certainly was before. But I couldn't let this go without making sure. Daniel seems to really care for me, even if he won't commit to a relationship. He is still so insufferable about his independence. But he did say he was sorry about leaving me for Nightshade. He said neither Nightshade nor Enchantress [Daniel was with June long before this fling with Eve!] hold any interest for him. He wants to be with me now. He says the other women in his life are being compromised by their own magic. Do I believe him? Should I even care? We're together again, and that's all that matters to me! We love each other, and despite his demonic faults, I can't bring myself to leave him. So we're going to try this merry-go-round one more time. All my best wishes go out to you. Keep the family safe. I love you so much as always, Suzy."


re: Demon-Man Dan, Hell's Blue Devil-Man wrote:

"Swamp Thing. You're the boss of all of us. I'm serious. While stuck-up head honchos like the Phantom Stranger may be calling all the shots, it's guys like you that keep us going. I'm going to take better care of my babe Suzy this time out. Guess I got my serious conscience call when I saw that putz Booster Gold punch my favorite reporter Clark Kent in the nose [hell of a nice guy and good reporter, that Kent reminds me of somebody I know...], and I realized what an imbecile I've been with Suzy. Leaving her for Nightshade. What was I thinking? Eve Eden has nothing on Suzy, I'm telling you now. I had to screw it all up and see it, if I ever wanted to learn to do things right. Shadowpact missions and life in general may take me away from Suze for long periods of time, take it to heart my sexy girl has my loyalty. Will it last, you ask? Who cares? It's good enough to know in this messed-up world we try to be happy. I'm commiting to Suzy, and no amount of hellfire or vampish seduction is going to stop me this time! We're made for each other. It's destiny. I'll make her happy. Promise. Keep fighting the good fight, Green God. Blue Devil."

Life is full of surprises. The Orchid and the Devil are together again. Perhaps they will make it work this time. For the sake of my friend Suzy's happiness let this turbulent relationship be a glorious success.


Next:
Mother's Day Memories.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/mothers-day-memories.html

Abby and Tefé: Back In Houma.

My Wife Abby. She Is The Bravest Person I Know.

Abby and Tefé went back into Houma today. Abby said she had to warn the police about King Toad. Tefé also wanted to be with Zaina. There was no fighting against this. It needed to be done. I watched as the Cajuns created a distraction. Abby and Tefé ran barefoot with their bags unnoticed behind the police barricade and into Houma. Words cannot express how I feel about this. I have never been so proud of my magnificent family as I am now. We will succeed, and save Houma and the Cajun community from destruction. I know it. We are heroes, everyone of us.


Next:
Black Orchid and Blue Devil: Together Again!
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/black-orchid-and-blue-devil-together.html

The Hunt For King Toad.

I joined Tee-Tonti and five other Cajuns in the trackdown effort for King Toad this evening. The men's hunting dogs were quick to pick up the scent of the toad-like abominations. We chased the monsters into a clearing outside of town, where I could sense a trap. King Toad laughed and said he would never be taken prisoner again. He had raided a still, and scattered large amounts of moonshine about the area, which was flammable and soon to bar our path. Taking a simple lit match, he managed to light the trees and foliage surrounding us, torching everything. We should not have left the truck unguarded, as it proved to be easy pickings of our enemies. The monsters rode off into Houma as the men were forced to give up the pursuit, drop their shotguns, and help me put out the fires. Again, King Toad has escaped. Only Woodrue could have helped him start those fires so easily. But where is the Floronic Man? These difficult questions are proving to be all the more dangerous as this deadly situation worsens for all of us.


Next:
Abby and Tefé: Back In Houma.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/abby-and-tef-back-in-houma.html

Constantine's Birthday Visit To Tefé.

Today was John Constantine's 53rd birthday. He took some time off from his mission in Glasgow, Scotland to visit Tefé here in Louisiana. Tefé was held up in a diner in Metairie trying to catch a bus back to Houma to see Zaina, because of the heavy downpour my powers have brought about. I am using my powers over nature to bring down heavy rain to stop the fires raging in Houma. But my control of the realms beyond the Green are not as well established as they once were. The rains are too indirect to do any good. And if I push too hard, another ecological disaster such as the last terrible hurricane to damage New Orleans may take place. So I have decided to simply wait this out like everyone else, watching Tee-Tonti load up his shotguns for tomorrow's hunt for King Toad, while I was listening to old Schiller and Marcel talk. In Metairie, Tefé was watching the news on the diner's television. The previous evening, Booster Gold was responsible for a minor incident by assaulting a newspaper reporter at Superboy's second funeral in Metropolis, for which our family had no wish to attend. This report was interrupted by breaking news of yet another disaster in Star City, California. Dr. Light has struck again despite the Villains United Society's crushing defeat in Metropolis. Light has exacted terrible revenge upon Green Arrow and his partners earlier this morning. Star City is now suffering the same fiery nightmare as Houma. Dr. Light is no different than King Toad. They are both equally monstrous and must be stopped. But how? Before Tefé could think on this on my behalf, she was approached by Constantine who asked her "Who's your daddy?" Tefé said not him and to get lost. Constantine said she should be more grateful, as he was the one who kept Lex Luthor's White Kryptonite [a radioactive alien material that kills all forms of plant life upon contact] from entering into the Battle of Metropolis. Constantine claimed he saved the lives of Black Orchid and myself by doing this. For Constantine knew full well of the weakness imposed upon me by Dr. Light at the time, which would have made me vulnerable. Tefé asked where the White K was now? Constantine said this was his little secret to keep. Tefé said he should have used the rocks to kill the Floronic Man and Poison Ivy. Constantine said Woodrue and Ivy were being guarded by way too many other supervillains for him to try to pull a stunt like that. He said he wouldn't want to push his luck. Constantine offered to take Tefé and Zaina back to Scotland with him, insisting the dire situation in Houma was only going to get worse. Tefé wanted nothing to do with a man who would keep such things from her, and joked darkly about not wanting to sleep on a bed in the U.K. that probably had White K under it. Constantine said the Kryptonite could not harm Tefé's human form now. She didn't believe him. Constantine laughed, and he said he loved the fact he played surrogate father for such a trusting family. Tefé asked him what he was doing in our country. Constantine said he claimed Alex Luthor's body in Gotham. He saw to it the young man had proper funeral arrangements. Tefé asked him why he would do a stupid thing like that. Because no one else was going to bother, Constantine said grimly. If Conner Kent could have two funerals, then Alex should at least have one, he insisted. Constantine favored the young Luthor, and did not fault him for wanting to create the perfect Earth, only his way of going about it. Tefé said Constantine was insane, to which he replied that we all are crazy, every single one of us, to some degree. Constantine started to say things to console Tefé, for his empathy is still in effect, and this started to soften Tefé's feelings toward him. Tefé said he'd better watch out, or she might start caring for him. Heaven forbid, Constantine said. He told her today was his 53rd birthday and he couldn't think of anyone he wanted to spend it with more than Tefé. Constantine told Tefé to take care, and she hugged him with a sigh to relieve her tension. Constantine left, and Tefé came out to the swamp to tell me personally of this encounter. She claimed to have confused feelings about it. I told my daughter that if she wanted to accept Constantine into her life, then she was welcome to. No harm can come of this, that I can see. Tefé thanked me with a friendly embrace. The storm's getting stronger, but it is not going to put out the fires in Houma. We have to count our blessings here, however. Tefé's keeping me company here at the cabin for the rest of the day. I feel so much more at ease than I did before. Perhaps I too will someday come to accept Constantine into our family, in time.


Next:
The Hunt For King Toad.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/hunt-for-king-toad.html

Prison Tree Escape...

King Toad Is Loose, How And WHY Did This Happen?

I found the Prison Tree mysteriously empty of all it's captives early this morning. Everyone at the Cajun camp is furious with me. Even Schiller. I believe this has something to do with Jason Woodrue being missing from his grave. Does the Floronic Man now exist in some new form that even I am not aware? Did he help King Toad and the other prisoners to escape? I am going to begin an extensive search of the area. I must track them all down and recapture the monsters, before it is too late! I will report more on this dreadful situation later...


Next:
Constantine's Birthday Visit To Tefé.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/constantines-birthday-visit-to-tef.html

Houma In Flames!

Never, In My Worst Nightmares...


re: Tefé Holland wrote at 8:10 P.M. :

"Dad, half the town is burning! Mom and me were camping out back of the house when we heard this terrible loud noise. It shook the hell out of me. Mom said it was an explosion. She says she's heard a lot of them, all from being with you over the years. You guys are so old.
There are buildings on fire. Power outage too, she says. Damn! Crap.
We're going to go check it out. Mom wants you to stay out of this.
I'll watch her back, don't worry. Tefé."



re: Tefé Holland wrote at 8:18 P.M. :

"A car just blew up right next to us! Mom grabbed me, and she shoved me down to the pavement. She body slammed me, and grabbed my head really hard. She wouldn't get off top of me. Damn, that hurt! Why do parents have to be so crazy and overprotective? She left me a little scuffed up from it, but I'm not bleeding too much. Mom's running. Got to have to go chase after her now. Why's she running so fast? The hell she's going? Get back to you. Tefé."



re: Tefé Holland wrote at 8:55 P.M. :

"I lost track of Mom for a while. She ran inside of a burning building and pulled some little kids out. Firefighters grabbed us and handed us over to the police. Mom refused to leave until the ambulance came for the kids. We're in the back of a police car now. Hope we don't get arrested or some kind of bullshit. Mom was only trying to help. She's covered in soot. Coughing a whole lot. I'll try to clean her up. Tefé."



re: Tefé Holland wrote at 10:05 P.M. :

"It's all over the TV news! The fires are contained, but they won't stop burning. If this keeps up, the fires will spread again. They sedated Mom and she's asleep now. They're going to move us to another hospital, because this one is crowded and we're not dying or anything, just a little sick from the smoke and crap. Metairie General, I think they said we're going to. We're leaving Houma. Before Mom went to sleep, she said we're going to come back and try to save our home. So we are coming back. She wants me to be brave, but I'm so scared, Dad. I need my powers back. I just hope Nerk and Bob blew themselves up real good. There's nothing else on TV except for that stupid Booster Gold guy in Metropolis. He caught Mammoth. Big deal. Today was hotshot tabloid reporter Jack Ryder's birthday. Hooray for him. Superboy's getting another funeral? Crap! Well, that certainly sucks. Guess we went to Smallville for nothing.
Black Adam disarmed a terrorist in Kandaq. Literally. That's funny. I'm tired as hell. Better hit the sack. Love you, Dad. I'll come out to see you soon. Tefé."

Abby and Tefé are both safe and sound. That's all I can think about at the moment. My beloved family is safe.


Next:
Prison Tree Escape.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/prison-tree-escape.html

Alex Luthor's Demise.

The Horrific Fate Of Alex Luthor. Did He Deserve It?

John Constantine contacted me by phone tonight during my visit to STAR Labs in Metropolis. I was with Suzy, whose medical condition is slowly beginning to improve, although her body temperature has lessened to the point that her eyes have yet to show their steam again. Over Constantine's phone call, he insisted that I hurry on to Gotham City and protect his one-time friend Alex Luthor from an assassination attempt that was about to occur. Realizing that I could use Constantine's talents now, I told him that this effort on my part would put him in my debt. If I could save the anomalous life of the corrupted but now harmless young Luthor, then Constantine would have to help me in turn. I would use him to allow me public access into Houma without there being destructive repercussions upon the denizens of the swamps. Constantine grudgingly agreed, demanding that I hurry. Traveling through the Green, I arrived at Crime Alley in Gotham City. Growing myself from three spoiled heads of lettuce and overripe melon, I rose up to full form. I stepped from the dumpster.
I hurried through the heavy downpour to the nearby alley, only to hear the Joker's maniacal laughter. I was too late. The young Luthor, now horribly disfigured, was killed by the Joker, with a gunshot to the head. Lex Luthor was there, having told his young divergent counterpart of his fatal mistakes that would cost him his life.
Then the Joker ran off and disappeared into the rain as the older, surviving Luthor merely awaited my arrival without worry. Luthor said he wasn't expecting to see me again so soon. I asked him why he did this. "Because it needed to be done." he said, walking confidently away. Then I encountered Hush, who explained to me how and why all of this came to pass. I asked him why Gotham City is a haven for such madness and horrible violence. Hush stated that with my time travel experience, I should be more of an authority on the origins of the subject of Gotham's madness than he would. He merely exploits the insanity of others, he said. That is his power. I asked him how he knew of my experiences. He said he calls himself "Hush" because he always gained knowledge of things that men of common sense would never have any business of knowing, as he too walked away into the rain. I returned to Suzy's hospital bedroom and found out that Luthor had sent me the gruesome picture above of his counterpart's demise. Constantine called and asked if I got there too late to save the young friend he was so fond of. I told him I would deal with the situation back home on my own and hung up on him as he started to scream drunkenly over the phone at me. Suzy nervously tried to get out of bed, saying she was going with me. She didn't even have the strength to stand. I gave her a fresh cup of water, and put her back to bed. Suzy needs more time to heal. I promised her everything was going to get better back home. I said this as if I could somehow fix it all. Let us hope that is a promise that I can keep...


Next:
Houma In Flames!
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/houma-in-flames.html

The Fate of The Justice League.

Are The World's Greatest Heroes Gone Forever?

The rebuilding of Metropolis has begun, while Houma stands gripped in terror. Worse, it seems that Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and several other major superheroes have begun their retirement plans by abandoning their costumed identities, now at a time when I need their help the most. I wish them well, regardless. They have earned the rest. The rest of the world is quieting down, while the situation here in the bayou has become more terrible. Woodrue has disappeared from his grave. The police have not found Nerk and Bob. I can sense these problems will only grow worse. The Infinite Crisis is over, however. Metropolis, and the world, is saved. I can at least take some solace in that.


Next:
Alex Luthor's Demise.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/alex-luthors-demise.html

Brutal Slayings In Houma.

Terror has struck yet again tonight. Nerk and Bob are being hunted by the Houma police, after a string of massacres of people in their own homes. Abby, needless to say, is utterly outraged by this:

re: Abigail Holland wrote:

"Alec, it's them, they are back! Those two monsters have killed more people in town tonight. Eight break-ins, a dozen murders, and nothing stolen. It's got to be them!!!!! It's not safe for you to come over, there are cop cars and helicopters are everywhere. I repeat: Don't come. We can't let people see you, not with all this going on. But PLEASE try to do something! We can't let this happen. I don't want to lose this town! I don't want to have to run away. Be safe, and hunt those things down, if the police don't get them first. You know I'm counting on you. Abby."

re: Tefé Holland wrote:

"Dad. I finally got Mom to settle down. She's a total freaking wreck. Don't worry. We're safe. I called and Zaina's safe at her place. We're all good, for now. Weed out the damn Prison Tree, get your butt down here on these streets, and rip those nasty little suckers to pieces. Honestly, I would have stopped them by now. But I can't anymore. It's up to you. Do it, Dad. There are no excuses. You have to protect the town. Be here. Tefé."

I almost did it. I almost went. But Schiller, Marcel, and Tee-Tonti stopped me from going. They said my involvement now would raise a red flag against us. The bayou folk would be held accountable for haboring the new scapegoat for all these slayings---and I would take the blame. Abby is right, not Tefé-- I should not be seen. Not now. But I have to do something to stop this bloodshed of the townspeople and try to save innocent lives. But what? This is maddening. To save one population, will I have to doom the other by completely turning my back on them? Why can't I save both? There has to be something that I can do. But for the immortal life of me, I just don't know what the solution to all of this horror is...


Next:
The Fate of The Justice League.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/fate-of-justice-league.html

Facing The Uncertain Future That Lies Ahead...

What Should I Do Now?

After burying Woodrue's remains early tonight, I sat on the porch of the cabin I gave to Jordan Schiller. I felt terrible about all the things that have been happening recently. Events that could have been avoided. I worry about my family Abby and Tefé, and the safety of the town of Houma. I worry about my partner Suzy, who is now seriously wounded following the Battle of Metropolis. I worry about Poison Ivy, Woodrue, King Toad, everything. Then I was visited by Tee-Tonti, a black Cajun man in his prime, whom I have helped to inspire the conscience of, simply by existing. It was Tee-Tonti who brought Schiller safely to me during the storms. He has earned my trust and respect. He wanted to talk about the safety of our community. He said the outside world is coming into our bayou, and that it is only a matter of time before they find us. I told him that for now we were far enough away from civilization's border to go unnoticed, but I could not say what tomorrow would bring. He said he wished things would settle down long enough that we could all work together to create something beautiful out of this place. But he said if our enemies find us here, there will be nowhere left to run. We will have to make a stand to defend our environment, our loved ones, and our homes. I detest King Toad, but I despise humanity's own destruction of our homes and people just as much. I just helped to end one war, so I absolutely hate the prospect of seeing another war start, right here at home! I promised Tee-Tonti that no one in the Cajun community would come to further harm. He said then it looks like I am still the Cajun Folk's strong Good Gumbo Man, after all.
I certainly hope he is right, but this never to has to be proven so.


Next:
Brutal Slayings In Houma.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/brutal-slayings-in-houma.html

Infinite Chaos!

Mayhem In Metropolis. Hell On Earth. And We Marched Right Into It.

Black Orchid and I were stationed on a base outside of Lewes, Delaware for much of the day. High noon came, and the villains redoubled their assault with fresh recruits in waiting shipped from Gotham, New Jersey. These included the Floronic Man and Poison Ivy. It was only then that those of us remaining heroes not yet engaged in the conflict at last marched on nearby Metropolis to save the day. Suzy remarked that I am one of the all-time-greatest superheroes.
I replied if that is true, then the Swamp Thing couldn't ask for a better sidekick than the Black Orchid. I took this picture above with my digital camera before putting my laptop away. Woodrue was in plain sight, fighting alongside Gorilla Grodd against Wonder Woman specifically. Poison Ivy was also in close proximity, in combat with the Black Canary. As I observed the Orchid take flight to engage Poison Ivy, I found my own path to Woodrue was blocked--by the Killer Croc. The cannibalistic, monstrous, hated, reptilian/human hybrid mutant stated his hatred for me from my abandonment of him at a time when he needed my guidance. The Cajuns, his own people forced him from the swamp and back to the city life he's been attempting to live despite his further mutations ever since. I told Croc that I was manipulated by outside forces at that time, but if he cares anything for the present, he would best step aside. Of course, he attacked and I was forced to fight back. We were evenly matched and the fight took a long time, as I was not about to use the Green until meeting Woodrue in final battle face-to-face. Black Orchid meanwhile was facing Poison Ivy. Suzy found Ivy with her back against a wall, bloody and delirious with battle fatigue. Suzy tried to reason with Ivy, but was attacked from behind by animated thorned vines grown from the cracks in the sidewalk. The thorns penetrated the Black Orchid's bulletproof skin, doing terrible harm to Suzy. Poison Ivy walked up to her wounded and helpless opponent. Laughing, she stated now it was time she got her only real competition permanently out of the way. Horribly wounded and bleeding profusely, the Orchid still had the strength to rise before the seemingly victorious Poison Ivy. Suzy heroicly took down the crazed botanical villainess with a single punch! Below us, beneath the shattered section of the street, Batman confronted Alex Luthor, whose powers had faded. Batman wanted to kill the young Luthor for everything he'd done. But Wonder Woman convinced the Dark Knight that such revenge was not worth it. Back home in Houma, Tefé went to check on Abby after her trying time with the police and reporters. Abby was on the verge of another breakdown due to her worries about me, but Tefé helped her through this, just as I knew she would. In space, the two Supermen and the Green Lantern Corps defeated Superboy-Prime, at the cost of the life of the Golden Age Superman. Much later in Metropolis, the battle died down enough that I could concentrate my efforts to take down Croc. When he fell to the battered pavement at my feet, I walked over to Woodrue who lay beneath the unconscious Gorilla Grodd. Sensing my presence, Woodrue heaved Grodd aside and he said that one way or another, things as we always knew them are going to end between us now. Several heroes and mercenaries took aim at Woodrue, as one of the last villains standing, they blasted him from all directions before my eyes. Woodrue's charred remains fell into my hands. I did not sense his escape into the Green. It is as if he wanted to die, here in this violent battle. Woodrue seemed to be dead, but my experiences with Arcane would say otherwise. I carried what was left of him on my back and went in search for Black Orchid and Poison Ivy. Black Canary rushed up to me and stated the severity of both the women's wounds. I was allowed aboard the chopper that airlifted Suzy and Ivy for medical treatment to STAR Labs. Suzy, now weak and wrapped in a blanket on a stretcher, told me she was going to be fine. I told her how very proud of her I am, as I managed to heal most of my brave young friend's wounds. The rest will be up to Suzy herself. I am being sent back home now. I don't know how I will face Abby when I see her next. I suppose I'd best stay at Schiller's and try to sort this out when I reach Louisiana. I thought this would be the end of these severe problems, but it seems more like only the beginning of the end...


Next:
Facing The Uncertain Future That Lies Ahead...
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/facing-uncertain-future-that-lies.html

Preparing For War.

Sometimes, The Waiting Is The Hardest Part...

Abby awoke from a strange dream, this morning. She said it was about the heroes and their initial reactions to Conner Kent's death from a month ago. I told her some of those same heroes had gone back there to the wreckage of Alexander Luthor's multidimensional tower to seek out clues as to the whereabouts of the young Luthor and Superboy-Prime. Perhaps my wife's empathy powers are growing, sensing memories of one of the heroes. Wonder Girl, most likely.
I had Abby concentrate not on the past, but on the present. She had to try to sense what was currently being said in that distant location. She closed her eyes, then opened them and said she thought she heard a Green Lantern announce the Metropolis situation to the other heroes. I could sense what was next to occur. More and more villains will be marched into Metropolis, the heroes will be forced to intervene. This will make the task Suzy and I must undertake all the more difficult...and all the more dangerous. But our thoughts were shattered by the sound of more helicopters passing overhead, still searching for King Toad's victims. Suzy arrived early and told Abby there are still more prison breakouts taking place, and she had better go home. Abby asked if there was further news on the Battle of Metropolis yet. Suzy said tomorrow is the day that Poison Ivy and Woodrue will be on the attack, although Superman, Wonder Woman, and the others are soon to be part of the fighting as of later today since the Battle of Metropolis is already nearing the heart of the city, which is impossible to evacuate. I told Suzy to go to Tefé and make her aware that Suzy and I will be leaving Louisiana for Delaware soon. I took Abby back to her house. She said tomorrow she would have to talk to police and reporters about what happened to Candy Taylor, last month. I told her she would do fine. And if she needed help, she could always count on Tefé. Clearly, Abby needed more sleep, so I urged her to go to bed. I told her I would come home safe from Metropolis, as would Suzy. Before leaving, I recreated the garden in Abby's backyard, making it even more extravagant than before. That should cheer Abby up after her grueling ordeal with the press and the police tomorrow. Now I had to deal with King Toad before leaving.
I went to the Prison Tree, uprooted it, and made it walk with me. King Toad and his sons were most surprised by this. I need Schiller and the Cajun Folk to keep an eye on King Toad during the time I am to be fighting in Metropolis, just in case. Cajun elder Marcel wanted the monsters dead. I refused. There is enough killing taking place in Metropolis, I'll not abide it in my swamp, unless it is absolutely necessary. Perhaps I may even find a way to stop Woodrue without lethal force. King Toad protested his imprisonment, as usual. It matters little at this point. Once I said good-bye to my friends and was alone, I was rejoined by Suzy. She had wonderful news. Doomsday has already fallen to the two Supermen. Others would have fallen, if not for a pursuit of Superboy-Prime into deep space. We heard Lady Blackhawk's plane come in for a landing at the nearby runway I made for her in the swamp. We rushed into the plane and joined other heroes on the flight now made to Delaware. For now we are to sit this out tonight and patiently wait. For tomorrow, we will end the war in Metropolis. Soon, this will all be over...


Next:
Infinite Chaos!
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/infinite-chaos.html

Small Talk With The Atom.

Ray Palmer, The Atom. A Hero Not To Be Overlooked...
Or Stepped On!

The Atom briefly returned today from his microscopic sojourn into the Micro-Cosmos. He arrived in St. Roch, a city near New Orleans, and then he came out to the bayou to talk with me. Abby was also present for this unusual conversation, but she could not hear him clearly at his tiny size. Given my unique talents however, I could understand him perfectly. He came to provide me with invaluable information on how I could systematically defeat Jason Woodrue in battle without extending too much of my vast powers and therefore endangering the Green. He told me of how he'd stopped Woodrue from commencing the "Atom-Destruction of the Earth", and how vain Woodrue is, needing complete admiration or total fear to gain what he believes to be respect and power. I asked the Atom to accompany the Black Orchid and myself to Metropolis, when the time is right. The Atom said he must return to Floria, the microscopic subkingdom that is located within the oceans of the Green, from which Woodrue originated. The Atom must protect the Dryad Faerie named Maya, former lover of Woodrue who is the Florian May Queen of that realm, from Woodrue's insanely jealous persecution. The Atom said he cannot be two places at once, so he must leave the confrontation with Woodrue at the Battle of Metropolis to the rest of us. Before giving me a chance to even say good-bye, the Atom shrank down from our Earthly plane and back into the Microverse. I do not envy him, since my own perilous microscopic misadventures proved nearly catastrophic. Now I have what it takes to destroy the threat of the Floronic Man once and for all. All that I await is the call to action.


Next:
Preparing For War.
http://swampthingblog.blogspot.com/2006/05/preparing-for-war.html