Judgment of the Endless (MarvelxDC)

A few months had passed since Darius had descended from the mountains, his newfound power a part of him now. Life in Wakanda had been fulfilling, but there was a restlessness growing within him.

The desire to explore the world beyond Wakanda's borders tugged at his heart. One evening, as the sun set and painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, Darius stood on the palace balcony, deep in thought.

[Flashback]

Standing amidst the crowd, I observed the hustle and bustle of Wakanda with a detached amusement. My long white hair fluttered in the gentle breeze, and my white robes with golden accents shimmered in the sunlight.

I kept myself hidden from the attention of the people around me, but my focus was entirely on one person—Lana Kane.

I had known from the beginning that Lana was a spy. Her movements were too precise, her questions too calculated.

She was good, but not good enough to escape my notice. Still, I found her presence intriguing. There was a determination in her that I admired, even if her mission was shrouded in secrecy.

As she walked towards he plane, I could sense the myriad of emotions running through her. Reluctance, curiosity, a hint of fear—it was all there, written on her face. Just as she was about to board, she glanced back. Her eyes locked onto mine, widening in surprise.

I couldn't help but smile. A mischievous grin that I knew would pique her curiosity even further. I stood still, making no effort to hide, knowing full well that the people around me would remain oblivious to my presence.

It was a small display of my power, a reminder that I was always watching.

Her reaction was priceless. The slight pause, the hesitation—she was trying to make sense of what she was seeing. She blinked, probably questioning her own sanity for a moment.

But then she understood. She knew I was real, and that I was aware of her.

I raised a hand in a subtle wave as she turned away, boarding the transport. As the ramp closed and the engines roared to life, I continued to watch, my mind filled with thoughts of what lay ahead.

Lana was returning to her mission, carrying with her the knowledge of my power and presence. It would certainly stir things up in her world.

The plane lifted off, disappearing into the sky. I remained standing there, blending back into the crowd. My mind was already planning my next move.

Lana's presence in Wakanda had been a small part of a much larger game, and I was eager to see how it would all unfold.

With a final glance at the sky, I turned and walked away, my thoughts drifting to the future. There were many secrets in this world, and many adventures yet to be had. And I, Darius, was at the center of it all, ready to enjoy life and judge those deserving of it.

For now, I would let Lana wonder and speculate. She would return to her superiors with tales of my power, sparking curiosity and perhaps even fear. But I would always be one step ahead, watching and waiting, ready to step in when the time was right.

[Flashback end]

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Zuri, the black panther pup, sat beside him, looking up with curious eyes.

T'Challa, noticing Darius's contemplative state, approached him quietly. "Something on your mind, Darius?"

Darius turned to face the king, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I've been thinking, T'Challa. There's so much of this world I have yet to see. Wakanda is beautiful, and I am grateful for everything here, but I feel a pull to explore beyond these borders."

T'Challa nodded, understanding. "You have been a great friend to Wakanda, Darius. If you feel the need to explore, we will support you."

Queen Ramonda, who had joined them, placed a gentle hand on Darius's arm. "You have done much for us, Darius. Your journey is your own, and if it calls you elsewhere, you must follow."

Shuri, hearing the conversation, came over, her eyes wide with concern. "You're leaving?"

Darius smiled at her, his expression soft. "Not forever, Shuri. I just need to see more of the world. There are so many places, so many people I haven't met yet."

Shuri sighed, her worry evident. "But you'll come back, right?"

"Of course," Darius reassured her. "This is my home now, too. But I need to understand the world better. I need to see what lies beyond Wakanda's borders."

Zuri barked, as if sensing the change. Darius knelt down, petting the pup. "And Zuri will come with me. We'll have an adventure together."

T'Challa smiled, though there was a hint of sadness in his eyes. "You will always have a place here, Darius. Wakanda will be waiting for your return."

As the days passed, Darius prepared for his journey. The news spread through the palace, and many came to wish him well. On the day of his departure, the royal family and close friends gathered to see him off.

Shuri approached him with a small, wrapped package. "For your journey," she said, handing it to him. "It's a reminder of Wakanda."

Darius unwrapped it carefully, revealing a beautifully crafted pendant with the emblem of Wakanda. "Thank you, Shuri. This means a lot."

She nodded, her eyes reflecting the emotions she couldn't put into words.

As he stood at the palace gates, ready to leave, T'Challa spoke once more. "Darius, remember that the world can be a dangerous place. Stay safe."

"I will," Darius promised. "And I will return with stories and knowledge to share."

Queen Ramonda stepped forward, hugging him gently. "May the spirits guide and protect you on your journey."

Shuri, tears in her eyes, hugged him tightly. "Come back soon, okay?"

Darius returned her hug, feeling the warmth of their bond. "I promise."

With Zuri by his side, Darius set out from the palace. The path ahead was uncertain, but he felt a sense of excitement. The world was vast, filled with unknown wonders and challenges.

As they walked away from the palace, Darius looked back one last time, seeing the royal family watching him with fondness and hope.

[Images here]

The journey would be long, but Darius knew he was ready. With Zuri as his companion and the support of his Wakandan family in his heart, he stepped into the wider world, eager to explore, learn, and grow.

The adventures that awaited were beyond his imagination, and he embraced the unknown with an open heart and a curious mind.

Darius and Zuri traveled for days, leaving the familiar landscapes of Wakanda behind. Each morning, they woke to new sights and sounds. The vast savannas, dense forests, and bustling cities they passed through were filled with life and energy.

Darius took it all in, eager to learn and understand the world outside Wakanda.

One evening, as they set up camp near a serene lake, Darius sat by the fire, deep in thought. Zuri curled up next to him, content after a long day of exploration. Darius stared into the flames, reflecting on the journey so far.

The next day, they reached the edge of a bustling city. The noise and activity were a stark contrast to the peaceful nights they had spent in the wilderness.

Darius walked through the crowded streets, observing the people and their way of life. The city was alive with energy, and Darius felt a thrill at being part of it.

As they moved through the market, a group of children ran past, laughing and playing. Zuri watched them with interest, her tail wagging. Darius smiled, feeling a sense of joy at the simple pleasures of life.

In a quiet corner of the city, Darius found a small library. He spent hours there, reading about the history and culture of the place. The librarian, an elderly woman with kind eyes, noticed his interest and approached him.

"You seem very curious about our city," she said with a gentle smile.

Darius looked up, nodding. "I am. There is so much to learn."

The librarian sat down next to him. "Every place has its own stories and secrets. What brings you here?"

"I'm traveling," Darius replied. "I want to see the world and understand its people."

The librarian nodded thoughtfully. "That is a noble quest. The world is vast and filled with wonders. But it can also be challenging."

"I know," Darius said. "But I believe it is worth it."

The librarian smiled. "I believe you are right. Safe travels, young man."

As Darius and Zuri continued their journey, they encountered many different people. In a small village, they met a farmer who shared stories of his ancestors.

In a bustling port town, a sailor spoke of his adventures on the high seas. Each person they met added to Darius's understanding of the world.

Their journey continued, filled with new experiences and discoveries. Darius and Zuri traveled through mountains, crossed rivers, and ventured into deserts. Each place they visited added to their understanding of the world.

One evening, as they camped under a starry sky, Darius looked at Zuri. "We've seen so much, little one. But there is still more to explore."

Zuri barked in agreement, her eyes shining with excitement.

As they traveled on, Darius thought about Wakanda and the royal family. He missed them, but he knew he was on the right path. The journey was not just about seeing new places; it was about growing and understanding his place in the world.

In a bustling city, Darius met a group of scholars. They were eager to share their knowledge and welcomed him into their circle. Darius spent weeks with them, learning about different philosophies and ideas. The scholars were fascinated by his tales of Wakanda and his experiences.

One of the scholars, a wise old man named Eamon, took a special interest in Darius. "You have a unique perspective, young man. Your journey is a rare and valuable one."

Darius nodded. "I feel there is still more to discover."

Eamon smiled. "The search for knowledge is endless. But remember, it is not just about what you find, but how it changes you."

Darius pondered Eamon's words. His journey was not just about seeing the world; it was about becoming a part of it, learning from it, and growing.

As they continued their travels, Darius and Zuri encountered many minor setbacks. They faced storms, crossed treacherous terrain, and navigated through dense jungles. 

One day, as they journeyed through a remote mountain pass, they stumbled upon a hidden village. The villagers were wary at first, but Darius's kindness and Zuri's playful nature soon won them over. They welcomed the travellers, sharing their food and stories.

Darius learned that the village was isolated, cut off from the rest of the world. The villagers had their own traditions and way of life. Darius was fascinated by their unique culture and spent weeks learning from them.

One evening, as they sat around a fire, the village elder spoke to Darius. "You have a kind heart, traveller. Your journey is blessed."

Darius felt a deep sense of gratitude. "Thank you, elder. Your village has taught me much."

The elder smiled. "Remember, the world is filled with many paths. Each one leads to a new discovery. Follow your heart, and you will find your way."

As Darius and Zuri left the village, they felt a sense of fulfillment. The journey was far from over, but each step brought new understanding and growth.

Weeks turned into months as Darius and Zuri continued their exploration. They visited ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and remote villages. Each place added to their knowledge and experience.

One day, as they approached a grand city, Darius felt a sense of anticipation. The city was known for its vast libraries and centers of learning. Darius was eager to explore its knowledge and meet its scholars.

As they entered the city, they were greeted by a young woman named Laila. She was a scholar and a guide, eager to show them the wonders of the city.

"Welcome, travelers," Laila said with a warm smile. "I will be your guide."

Darius and Zuri followed Lana through the bustling streets, marvelling at the city's grandeur. The libraries were filled with ancient texts and manuscripts, and the scholars were eager to share their knowledge.

Darius spent weeks in the city, immersing himself in its knowledge. Lana became a close friend, and they spent many evenings discussing their discoveries.

One evening, as they walked through a peaceful garden, Laila turned to Darius. "Your journey is remarkable, Darius. I have learnt so much from your stories."

Darius smiled. "It has been an incredible journey. But I feel there is still more to discover."

As Darius and Zuri prepared to leave the city, Laila gave them a small, intricately carved pendant. "A reminder of your time here," she said. "May it guide you on your journey."

Darius accepted the gift with gratitude. "Thank you, Laila. We will always remember this place and the people we met here." This would mark the 13th pendant he had received from the various villages and small cities he had visited.

With a final farewell, Darius and Zuri set out once more, their hearts filled with hope and anticipation. The journey ahead was unknown, but they were ready for whatever came their way.

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