Junior Leaguer for a Day/Script

EXT. MIDVALE KINDERGARTEN PLAYGROUND - DAY
Here, in the vibrant heart of the county of Midvale, where the kindergarten playground buzzed with the laughter of carefree children, stands the robust figure of a young girl with eyes that seem to gleam with a fierce intelligence beyond her years. Kara Zor-El, a recent addition to the school, is surrounded by a throng of her curious peers, their eyes locked onto her as if she's about to reveal the secret to eternal youth. The reporter, Jimmy Olsen, armed with a notepad and a pen that seems to dance in his hand, leans in with an eager smile, his curiosity piqued by the tales of her alien heritage.
JIMMY:
Tell me, Kara, when was the first time you met the Justice League led by your older cousin, Superman?
KARA:
Well, Jimmy, it all began when I landed on Earth during hyper-sleep. I had been sent from my doomed planet, Krypton, by my parents to escape the same fate as my cousin, Kal-El. When I woke up, I discovered I had powers beyond those of any mortal girl.
JIMMY:
So, when did the Justice League come into the picture? Did you always know about them?
KARA:
Not at first, but fate has a way of bringing heroes together. The first time I met them was during the Great Crisis. It was a battle that spanned galaxies, the war between the Blue and Red Lantern Corps. The universe was on the brink of collapse, and it was all because of this Orphan Stone of Soul controlled by Darkseid.
At the mention of the name "Darkseid," the children's laughter and chatter died down, replaced by a sudden, palpable tension. They all flinched, their eyes widening in horror. Jimmy, who had been scribbling away, paused and looked up, noticing the shift in the playground's atmosphere. He had heard whispers of the moniker before, but the genuine fear etched on these young faces was a stark reminder of the gravity of the situation.
KARA (CONT'D):
What? What's wrong, everyone? It's just a story.
JIMMY:
That name you just mentioned in public is the worst villain of all time. It's not something you say lightly, especially not here in the county of Midvale.
Kara, catching her own mistake, gives an awkward laugh when her cellphone from her pocket rings. The vibration feels like a silent alarm snapping everyone out of a trance. She pulls out her phone and puts it on her ear.
KARA:
Hello?
Her voice is calm, but the color drains from her cheeks as she listens to the voice on the other end. It's a call she's heard a hundred times in her head but never thought would come this soon.
KARA (CONT'D):
Oh my gosh, Kal-El, I was just talking about you! Say, where are you?
A goat-like scream comes out of her phone.
KARA (CONT'D):
Well, you don't say!
SUPERMAN (VIA PHONE):
Kara, it's me, Kal. We've got a situation at the Hero City Bank. There's been a break-in, and the perpetrator has hostages. The police are on their way, but they need backup. Can you come?
KARA:
Sure, I'll be right there.
(to Jimmy)
Sorry, sir, but we'll finish our interview later. For now, this Kid of Steel's gotta fly!
With a burst of speed that left the playground in a whirl of dust and amazement, Kara shot into the sky, her cape trailing behind her like a banner of hope. The children watched her ascend, their jaws agape, before they scattered to tell their teachers of the incredible sight they had just witnessed. Jimmy, still stunned, watched her until she was nothing but a speck in the azure expanse above. He knew he had just uncovered the story of a lifetime.
Cut to:
EXT. SKY - SAME
Soaring through the sky, Kara's heart raced with excitement and a hint of nerves. The wind whipped her cape around her as she streaked towards the looming figure of the Hero City Bank.
KARA (CONT'D):
Oh, I can't wait to show the Justice League what this Kryptonian can do!
(giggles)
Cut to:
EXT. HERO CITY BANK - SAME
Here, in the concrete jungle of Hero City, the grandeur of the bank stood tall and proud, an unfortunate beacon for today's chaos. Kara's heart thundered in her chest as she approached the scene, the gravity of her first mission with the Justice League weighing on her shoulders. The air grew thick with tension, a stark contrast to the lightness of her flight. She saw the tell-tale flashes of blue and red, the silent guardians of the city's finest, the Hero City Police Department, strategically positioned around the bank's perimeter.
As she descended, the world's greatest heroes came into view. Superman, his cape fluttering in the artificial breeze created by the speed of her descent, his eyes gleaming with steely determination. Batman, brooding and stoic, his cape a stark contrast to the gleaming metal of his armor. Wonder Woman, with her lasso of truth at the ready, her gaze sharp and focused. The Flash, a blur of scarlet and gold, fidgeting with nervous energy. And there was Green Lantern, his emerald aura pulsing with power, a clear sign that he was preparing for the worst.
KARA:
Hey, Kal! What's going on today?
BATMAN:
It's my archenemy, the Joker, again. This time, he's playing a twisted game with the bank's security system. We need to be careful. His toxins are in play.
SUPERMAN:
Kara, we're counting on you to keep the area secured. We've pinpointed the Joker's location inside the bank. He's got a device that could flood the city with his toxin if triggered. We need to be swift and decisive.
KARA:
Roger that, Kal. I'll keep an eye on things from up here.
BATMAN:
Commissioner Gordon, are you ready?
COMMISSIONER GORDON (VIA RADIO):
We're in position. On your mark.
Kara takes her position in the air, her eyes sweeping over the rooftops for any signs of trouble. The city is eerily quiet, as if holding its breath in anticipation of the chaos to come.
Suddenly, a burst of laughter echoes through the streets, followed by the sound of a cash register chiming. Kara's head snaps towards the source, and she spots a figure emerging from the bank's shattered doors. He is dressed in a motley ensemble of yellow and blue, a wide grin stretching from ear to ear. It is the Trickster, notorious for his penchant for chaos and the occasional bank heist. He clutches a bag that is unmistakably bulging with money, a glint of victory in his eyes as he pays no attention to the League's arrival.
BATMAN:
Hold on, that's not the Joker.
KARA:
You're right. It's the Trickster!
TRICKSTER:
(calling out to the bank)
Hey, thanks for the donation! I'll see you in the next payday, suckers!
The Trickster cackled maniacally as he walks away from the bank, the heavy bag of money slung over his shoulder. He didn't notice the Justice League standing stoically in his path until it was too late.
COMMISSIONER GORDON:
That's a big bag of money.
TRICKSTER:
Oh, I just stopped by to make a deposit! (laughs) But since I'm already out here, I might as well make a withdrawal, right?
SUPERMAN:
Not so fast, Trickster!
The Trickster's grin froze on his face as he looks on his front to see the Justice League now standing right in front of him.
TRICKSTER:
What?! The Justice League?!
(and then sees Kara)
And they brought a sidekick with them? Isn't that cute?
FLASH:
Try nothing!
WONDER WOMAN:
(striding forward)
You're coming with us, Trickster.
KARA:
And who are you calling 'cute'?
TRICKSTER:
Sorry, Justice League, but you're gonna need a bigger net! 'Cause my next trick you're gonna see is a disappearing act!
With a puff of smoke and a flash of light, the Trickster vanished, leaving only the echo of his laughter to taunt them. Green Lantern projects a fan from his Power Ring to blow the smoke away.
GREEN LANTERN:
I'm not a fan of this guy's tricks. Get it, fan? Because he's a trickster, and I can make fans with my ring.
(laughs)
The Flash speeds around the area to try and find the Trickster's escape route until he eyes lock on a manhole where the Trickster escaped into the murky depths of the city's sewer system.
FLASH:
Down there!
SUPERMAN:
After him!
The Justice League springs into action and jump through the manhole that leads to...
Pan down to:
INT. SEWER - SAME
Here, in the dank and shadowy underbelly of Hero City, the Justice League found themselves in a maze of concrete and rushing water, the perfect playground for the Trickster's chaotic games.
SUEPRMAN:
Justice League, split up and find him. And watch out for his corny tricks.
With that, the League splits into three pairs: Superman and Wonder Woman took the main path, Batman and Green Lantern took the left, and The Flash and Kara took the right.
The camera first focuses on Green Lantern and the Flash
GREEN LANTERN:
No escape for you now, Trickster.
(to Flash)
I got this, Flash.
FLASH:
No, I got this.
He zips away with a smug smile, leaving Green Lantern to ponder the logic of sending the fastest man alive into the tight, slippery confines of the sewer. Suddenly, the Flash's foot steps on a glossy yellow banana peel, and before he can react, he's in a blur of red and gold, tumbling down the sewer tunnel like a ragdoll. His body hits the water with a splash, sending dirty waves rippling outwards.
FLASH (CONT'D):
The oldest trick in the book.
GREEN LANTERN:
(laughing)
Wait till the gang hears that you feel for a banana!
But before Green Lantern can finish, a pile of bananas falls on top of Green Lantern, trapping him underneath. The Flash laughs.
Cut to:
INT. SEWER - CONTINUED
Superman and Wonder Woman, the power couple of the League, took the central path, their eyes peeled for any signs of the elusive villain. The dim lights of the sewer cast eerie shadows on the damp walls, making it feel like the walls themselves were alive and watching them.
WONDER WOMAN:
No sign of him.
SUPERMAN:
You can't hide from my x-ray vision, Trickster.
Using his X-Ray Vision, Superman quickly spots the Trickster nearby.
SUPERMAN (CONT'D):
Found him!
He points at the flickering figure of the Trickster, who has managed to stay one step ahead, weaving through the maze of pipes and shadows. Without wasting another second, the two heroes sprint in pursuit, their footsteps echoing through the cavernous space, and corner him.
WONDER WOMAN:
End of the line for you, Trickster!
But he was just a decoy filled with dynamite! The explosion leaves Superman and Wonder Woman covered with black ash in a comedic fashion, their expressions a mix of shock and annoyance.
Cut to:
INT. SEWER - CONTINUED
Batman, his cape spreading like wings, touches down in the sewer, his expression grim.
BATMAN:
We'll flush you out of this sewer soon enough, Trickster.
(to Kara)
Kara, give me an update.
KARA:
My X-Ray Vision is picking up fast movement in this tunnel. There's something down there.
Soon enough, a new sound pierced the silence of the sewer: the ominous clacking of giant teeth, each one larger than a car. They grew closer, their metallic chomps echoing through the damp corridors. Kara's eyes widened in horror as she turned to see the teeth barreling towards her, their gleaming surfaces bobbing in the murky water. They were the stuff of nightmares, sent by the Trickster to add a twisted smile to the chaos.
Her instincts took over, and she shot into the air, narrowly avoiding the teeth's snapping jaws. But the teeth didn't stop; they pursued her, their mechanical gnashing growing louder with every second. The chase was on, the teeth seemingly endless in number as they emerged from the darkness. Kara zipped and dove, her speed the only thing keeping her out of their grasp. She could feel the heat of their breath, the stench of decaying metal in her nostrils. Her heart hammered in her chest, her mind racing for a way to outsmart the relentless pursuers.
BATMAN:
A sneak attack. Definitely a job for my...Bat-dental floss.
He pulls out a device that shoots a stream of cable and pursues the teeth.
Cut to:
EXT. HERO CITY - CONTINUED
Here, back on the surface, the Trickster has managed to evade the sewer's chaos, thinking he's outsmarted the League. He emerges from a manhole, the bag of stolen cash clutched tightly in his hand, a smug grin on his face. The sun glints off the wet pavement, creating a stark contrast with the shadowy world he just left behind. He's mere steps away from his getaway car, a neon-green monstrosity that matches his flashy attire.
Suddenly, Kara crashes through from underneath, knocking the teeth into the air and landing in a battle-ready stance next to the Trickster. She's panting, her eyes flashing with determination.
KARA:
You've gimmicked your last gimmick, Trickster.
The other heroes emerge from the sewer, surrounding the Trickster.
GREEN LANTERN:
Your gags are a drag.
WONDER WOMAN:
Your bag of tricks just ran out.
FLASH:
Your tricks just treated you to a trip...
SUPERMAN:
...right to the local penitentiary.
As the Justice League advances on the dumbfounded Trickster, his smug smile fades into a grimace of desperation. The bag of money, now soggy from the sewer water, is tossed aside as he holds his hands up in a pitiful gesture of surrender.
TRICKSTER:
Please, wait! Please, mercy, I beg you! The jig is up! If you want, I'll just leave the money right here and it will all be over! We're good, right, right, right?
BATMAN:
Now, you're just wanting us for forgive you of your crime, is that it, Trickster? I think you're better off doing what's best for yourself by reading my mind.
Through a telepathic link that is almost tangible, Batman's voice resonates in the Trickster's mind with the word that is said five times...
BATMAN (CONT'D):
(via telepathic link)
No, no, no, no, no.
The Trickster's eyes bulge in horror as the single word echoed in his mind, a cold, unyielding finality that sends a shiver down his spine. He knows that look on Batman's face; it is the look of a man who has seen too much, and has no room left for mercy.
BATMAN (CONT'D):
Now, riddle me this. Where is the Legion of Doom currently residing? We'd love to know.
TRICKSTER:
(nervously)
Ah, okay, okay. I've got it! The Legion of Doom is hiding out at...the Arkham Asylum! Yes, that's it!
BATMAN:
(via telepathic link)
No, no, no, no, no.
The Trickster's eyes dart around, sweat beading on his forehead as he searches for the right answer.
TRICKSTER:
(nervously)
Okay, okay, okay! The Legion of Doom is at...the Hall of Doom? No, wait, that's too obvious. How about...Stryker's Island?
BATMAN:
(via telepathic link)
No, no, no, no, no.
The Trickster's mind races, sweat trickling down his cheeks as he searched for the right answer. He knows better than to lie to the Dark Knight.
TRICKSTER:
(desperately)
Okay, okay, okay! Then it's not...Belle Reve, is it?
BATMAN:
(via telepathic link)
Yes, yes, yes, yes...YES!
TRICKSTER:
(realizing)
YOU'RE TAKING ME TO THE BELLE REVE PENITENTIARY?!
SUPERMAN:
(facepalms)
Yes, yes, yes-- Ugh, great Scott...
Soon enough, the realization of his fate dawns on the Trickster as Kara spins him around in the air, her grip on his arms unyielding. He's moments away from the cold, unforgiving embrace of the police truck's steel bars.
The frame freezes for a moment as an offscreen narrator takes his place in the sequence.
NARRATOR (V.O.):
Axel Walker, also known as the "Trickster" - out of commission!
Like a javelin, the Trickster is launched towards a nearby police truck, his legs kicking in a futile attempt to escape. The wind of his own speed rushing past him, he's thrown into the open back of the vehicle, landing with a thud that echoes through the streets. The truck's doors slam shut, the sound of his laughter abruptly silenced by the cold steel. He glares at the Justice League, a crazed spark of vengeance in his eyes.
Lois Lane, news reporter for Daily Planet, is within the area commentating the Justice League's victory against the Trickster live.
LOIS:
(reporting live)
Unbelievable! The Justice League has once again prevailed, capturing the infamous Trickster in the heart of Hero City. The streets are safe once more, thanks to their unyielding vigilance and teamwork.
Next to Lois, Argentine sportscaster Andrés Cantor is revealed as guest news reporter for Daily Planet News.
ANDRÉS CANTOR:
(excitedly)
In an astounding turn of events, the Justice League has made another...GOOOOOOOOAL!
JIMMY:
(annoyed)
Andrés Cantor, please! You know this is incorrect usage.
ANDRÉS CANTOR:
(protesting)
I have no controoool! This job has taken its tooooll!
As the police officers rush in to secure the area, the Trickster, now handcuffed and looking quite a bit more subdued, pulls out one last trick from his sleeve.
TRICKSTER:
ENOUGH! You either let me out, or...
(He pulls out a small, green, smoke-filled orb)
...we're gonna have a smelly situation on our hands.
KARA:
Not this time!
With a swift move, Kara rushes towards the Trickster, her eyes locked on the smoking orb in his hand. Her heart races as she calculates the potential damage of the stink bomb. She knows she has to act fast. With a single blow with a solid 'thwack', she knocks the orb out of his grasp.
KARA (CONT'D):
And now, to dispose of it!
BATMAN:
Kara, wait!
But it's too late. With a fiery glare, Kara's heat vision blazes forth, blowing up the stink bomb into a cloud of noxious green gas. The smell is overwhelming, a vile cocktail of rotten eggs and week-old garbage that fills the area, making the onlookers retch. The Justice League, save for the unflappable Green Lantern and the ever-ready Flash, are caught in the blast.
GREEN LANTERN & FLASH:
(panicking; in unison)
Withdrawal!
GREEN LANTERN:
Jinx!
Green Lantern and Flash rush away from the smell, the former using his Power Ring to create a bubble of fresh air around them as they retreat.
KARA:
(celebrating)
Victory!
(suddenly sniffs the air)
Ew, what's that smell?
The sudden realization hits her like a ton of bricks. She had just incinerated the stink bomb with her heat vision, not understanding the full extent of its power. The smell is like a toxic fog, enveloping everything and everyone in a nauseating embrace. The citizens of Hero City, who had been watching the spectacle unfold, now cover their noses and gag, some even retreating in disgust.
Meanwhile, Green Lantern and Flash, having narrowly escaped the stench bomb's blast, watch in shock as the green cloud expands.
GREEN LANTERN:
Whew, I think I smell a Bat-lecture coming on.
Using a giant fan he projected from his Power Ring, Green Lantern worked tirelessly to disperse the nauseating stench that Kara's hasty move had unleashed. The whirring blades of air sliced through the cloud, sending it dissipating into the sky like a foul, green fog. Meanwhile, the Flash, with his usual flair for the dramatic, had painted a grin on his face with anti-smell paint, allowing him to glide through the stink unbothered.
Once Green Lantern's and the Flash's work is done, the once bustling streets of Hero City are left eerily quiet. The stench of the stink bomb had dissipated, leaving only the acrid aftertaste in the air. The Justice League members, now embarrassed by the fiasco, gather around Kara, who is still trying to recover from her own error.
BATMAN:
I was trying to tell you, Kara - that was a stink bomb. Now this whole section of the city stinks.
FLASH:
Not to mention you guys. Phew.
KARA:
(heartbroken; after a moment of silence)
I'm sorry...
The Justice League, their expressions a mix of shock and mild amusement, look at Kara as she walks away with her head hanging in shame while "People Ain't No Good" (sung by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds) kicks in. The Trickster looks on through the bars of the police truck, his grin returning as he watches the heroes' awkwardness.
TRICKSTER:
Whaddya know! Looks like I got the last laugh after all.
The cackling of the defeated Trickster trails off as the police truck pulls away, leaving the Justice League to face the stench-filled aftermath of their victory. The smell has dissipated, but the embarrassment lingers like a stubborn fog. Kara, feeling the weight of her mistake, decides to retreat to the one place she knew could offer her comfort: Pizza Planet.
Cut to:
INT. PIZZA PLANET - LATER
Here, at this complex between a family-friendly restaurant and a fitness center for children, the neon lights of Pizza Planet cast a warm glow over the sidewalk. Inside, the familiar scent of cheese and tomato sauce wafted through the air, mingling with the laughter of families and the clinking of plates. It was a place where heroes could be just like everyone else, if only for a brief moment.
A kind waitress named Linda, with a name tag that read 'Ask me about our daily specials!', approaches Kara with her order - a small pan pizza, fit to fill a 5-year-old's belly.
WAITRESS:
Here you go, kid. One small pan pizza with extra cheese, on the house.
KARA:
Thanks, Linda.
WAITRESS:
(sees Kara's gloomy face)
Hey, why the long face?
KARA:
(sighs)
It's a long story. I'm just feeling a bit embarrassed.
WAITRESS:
You know, you can tell me anything. I've seen a lot of stuff working here. What's got you down?
Kara took a deep breath, her eyes misting over as she recounted her tale.
KARA:
You see, Linda, I'm not from around here. I was born on a planet called Krypton, in a city called Argo. But it's not there anymore. It's...gone.
Linda's eyes widened, and she leaned closer, the curiosity in her eyes shimmering like the stars Kara had left behind.
KARA (CONT'D):
It's a weird story, but it's true. It started with my strained relationship with my abusive parents, you see.
White to:
INT. KARA'S HOUSE - ARGO CITY - KRYPTON - FLASHBACK
Here, Kara is forced to do mental housework for a living by her abusive parents, Zor-El and Alura. They are demanding and never satisfied with her abilities, pushing her to be the 'perfect' daughter and heir to their family's legacy. She's often found crying in her room, surrounded by the remnants of shattered crystals, a testament to her failed attempts to control her burgeoning powers. Her days are a blur of endless training, her nights filled with the echoes of her parents' harsh words.
KARA (CONT'D; V.O.):
They didn't send me to school and forced me to work all the time from dawn till dusk. I'm not allowed to play or even go outside. So, I started sneaking out one night...
Fade to:
INT. ARGO CITY STREETS - KRYPTON - FLASHBACK
KARA (CONT'D; V.O.):
...while unaware Brainiac's forces attacked.
While Kara is walking on the street, she pays no attention to a large swarm of Brainiac Drones flying above her. The camera zooms out to show the chaos of the city under attack. The buildings shake, and the air is filled with the sound of explosions. The sky is a canvas of fiery reds and oranges, as the city's defenses try to repel the alien invasion.
Zor-El, noticing the chaos outside, steps out of his house, his face a mask of fury.
ZOR-EL:
What's going on out there?!
Kara's mother, Alura, rushes out after him, her eyes wide with terror. One of the Brainiac Drones sees the parents and opens fire, killing them both.
Fade to:
INT. JOR-EL'S HOUSE - KANDOR - KRYPTON - FLASHBACK
Here, Kara finds the shuttle bay where her baby cousin, Kal-El, had been sent to Earth. She's in awe of the technology she's only heard of in whispers.
KARA (V.O.):
Then, I found my uncle, who had two spacepods ready for launch. He placed my cousin, Kal-El, in the first one, but he couldn't decide who could go in the second one because it was too small.
Kara steps forward to Jor-El, tugging his cloak with a trembling hand.
KARA (CONT'D; V.O.):
I volunteered to travel to Earth with Kal-El where I could raise him and teach him our ways, and my uncle agreed.
Jor-El's expression softens, and he nods solemnly. He places Kara in the second pod, which is barely large enough to fit her.
KARA (CONT'D; V.O.):
He had no time to waste before Brainiac arrived to take his life, so my uncle plotted our course for Earth, fired up the engines and blasted us out into the void.
Jor-El quickly seals the pod, his eyes filled with hope and sorrow as he watches it soar into the night sky. The camera follows the pod's journey through the chaos of the city, dodging the onslaught of Brainiac's forces until it reaches the upper atmosphere and the safety of space.
Cut to:
EXT. SPACE - SAME
Outside the planet Krypton, the pods travel together, carrying the hopes of two children, Kara's heart racing with the fear of the unknown, as the planet explodes, knocking her pod off course.
KARA (CONT'D; V.O.):
Yes, Kal-El and I made it off Krypton with just a couple of seconds to spare before the planet exploded. The only problem was my pod got stuck in the Phantom Zone after it was knocked off course by a meteor shower. I was trapped there for almost thirty years.
The camera shows the pod drifting through the eerie, other-dimensional void of the Phantom Zone, surrounded by malevolent spirits and time itself stretching out like a prison around her.
White to:
INT. PIZZA PLANET - END OF FLASHBACK
Kara sat in a booth at Pizza Planet, her eyes glazed over with the weight of her memories. The warm glow of the neon lights did little to lift the shadow of her past.
KARA (CONT'D):
So, I arrived on Earth when Kal-El was already Superman. I had missed so much, and I didn't know how to fit in.
WAITRESS:
(hands Kara a napkin)
Oh, sweetie, everyone has a tough time sometimes. And hey, you're a hero! You saved those people from the Trickster, right? That's what counts.
Suddenly, an umpire appears behind the waitress, calling...
UMPIRE:
Foul!
WAITRESS:
(turns around, surprised)
What?!
UMPIRE:
(correcting)
Kara was flopping!
Soon, the waitress and the umpire argue with each other, recreating a coach-referee confrontation scenario.
WAITRESS:
(defensively)
What?! Do you need glasses, pal?! That was no foul, she's just telling her story!
UMPIRE:
(yelling back at the waitress)
No, I don't need glasses! You're the one who needs glasses! A lot of people do that!
WAITRESS:
(firmly)
Well, what happened to this kind of "coach-umpire confrontation" thing? It used to happen a lot in the 70's but doesn't seem to happen that much anymore.
UMPIRE:
(waving his arms dramatically)
I agree. That's what we're doing now.
WAITRESS:
(thrusting her chest at the umpire)
It's a connection to a bygone era when men settled their differences face-to-face thrusting their chests into one another.
UMPIRE:
(thrusting back)
I miss having a small fry yell in my mouth.
WAITRESS:
And while we're talking about stuff, I've never cleaned my ice trays.
UMPIRE:
Oh, you have to do that! You're poisoning your family!
WAITRESS:
Why do I have to that? It's just water and water. What's the big deal?
UMPIRE:
Carrying an ice tray from the freezer to the sink is like ringing a dinner bell for arm hairs!
WAITRESS:
Come to think of it, I do remember seeing a few of my husband's short hairs in my ice cubes that I'm not hoping were from his arm!
UMPIRE:
Of course they're getting in there. Clean your trays!
The commotion snaps Kara out of her melancholic trance, and she watches the odd confrontation with a small smile, finding comfort in the mundane banter of the everyday world. It was a stark contrast to the battles she had just faced and the weight of her alien heritage.
KARA:
(snaps out of it)
Wait, he's right. I shouldn't let one mistake define me. I'm a hero, and I have to keep fighting for justice. But first, I need to clean up my own messes. Check, please.
The umpire nods and retreats to his seat, his face a mask of self-satisfaction. Kara takes a deep breath and wipes her eyes, leaving the warmth of Pizza Planet behind.
WAITRESS:
Now, that's a girl.
UMPIRE:
(protesting)
Not on my watch, she ain't. She's so OUT!
Consequently, another comedic argument between the waitress and the umpire ensues.
WAITRESS:
(yelling back at the umpire)
Out?! There was supposed to be a twist ending where I throw a pie in your face!
UMPIRE:
There ain't no twist, Missy! You're just not playing the game right!
WAITRESS:
Oh, you're crazy! It was a tip of the hat to my son!
UMPIRE:
I'm not crazy, you're crazy, especially your momma!
WAITRESS: 
If anything, it's a gift to our paid customers here in Pizza Planet!
UMPIRE:
(sarcastically)
Oh, what a gift - Merry Christmas, here's a warm baby shower for your daughter from five years ago!
The lights of the stage dim to the sound of the applause from the theatre audience which fades away after five seconds while the scene is brought apart by the Justice League and Alfred Pennyworth (Batman's butler), their eyes obliviously seeing in the dark so that they know where they are going while moving props and scenery around and stuff. The walls of Pizza Planet are moved by the Justice League, until the red and yellow lights of the restaurant are replaced by the sleek, blue glow of the Watchtower's Recreation Hall. The smell of pizza gives way to the faint scent of ozone and the distant hum of Wayne Enterprises technology.
Match cut to:
INT. WATCHTOWER - RECREATION HALL - LATER
Here, Alfred is serving out drinks behind a bar stand, which the Justice League are settling at with their signature mugs in their hands. Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman have all changed into their new "New 52" uniforms, which look sleeker and more high-tech than their previous ones.
Kara pokes her head around a doorframe near the bar, a nervous wreck. She can't help but feel a pang of regret for the smell that still clung to them. She floats slowly into the room, looking around herself nervously, and lands in front of them.
KARA:
Hey, Kal, I just wanted to apolog--whaaat!?
Her eyes widen at the sight of the Justice League in their new "New 52" uniforms. They all look so...shiny.
SUPERMAN:
You wanted to what, you naughty little girl?
KARA:
(excitedly; her eyes shining like stars)
You guys got new outfits!
Kara scans the room, her eyes landing on the gleaming new costumes of Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman. The "New 52" uniforms, with their modern lines and high-tech materials, seem almost out of place in the presence of the ancient artifacts and alien technology that adorn the walls of the Watchtower.
KARA (CONT'D):
Superman, you're wearing your underwear on the inside? Nice choice. And, Batman, shiny new armor for the Dark Knight. Wonder Woman, patriotic as always, but more understated.
Kara eyes then lock onto Green Lantern and Flash, who are still wearing their classic, spandex costumes.
KARA (CONT'D):
Barry Allen the Flash and Hal Jordan the Green Lantern...haven't changed a bit.
GREEN LANTERN:
My costume is an indestructible construct. And why mess with perfection?
(to Wonder Woman)
Am I right, princess?
FLASH:
Pfft. You'd better be indestructible with that jewelry slowing you down. You can't beat a costume that screams "fastest man alive."
Suddenly, Green Lantern punches Flash in the arm.
FLASH (CONT'D):
(grinning)
Ow! Hey!
Green Lantern does another punch to the Flash.
GREEN LANTERN:
Didn't you hear me earlier, dude? You're jinxed, remember?
FLASH:
(pause)
No, I don't think I remember.
Unfortunately, another punch to the Flash from Green Lantern causes the Flash's mug to fall to the floor where it breaks. The Flash jumps back, surprised by his own clumsiness. He then turns to Green Lantern angrily, as if to say, "See what you made me do?". A moment of silence follows as Green Lantern raises his fist.
GREEN LANTERN:
What? I'm supposed to pay for your mug now?
Pause. No answer given.
GREEN LANTERN (CONT'D):
Oh, come on, you know how this works, man. You can't talk when you're jinxed. And if you talk, you're gonna get punched. So, keep your mouth shut.
FLASH:
(beat)
Fine.
Hearing Flash talk, Green Lantern swings his arm and punches the Flash across the room. Kara laughs as the Flash lies flat on his face before she turns her attention to Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman.
KARA:
(slightly nervous)
No, seriously, guys, I don't understand anything. What's going on here?
BATMAN:
(lecturing)
Our former costumes were ruined with a permanent stench. It compromised our effectiveness as crime-fighters. So, as a result, we have been forced to wear these temporary ones for a time being until further notice.
KARA:
(realizing)
Right, because it's my fault your old ones got all stinky.
WONDER WOMAN:
(smiling gently)
Nonsense, Kara. We all needed a change. Why don't we come up with something new for you too?
KARA:
What is it?
WONDER WOMAN:
(pulls out a DVD)
It's a documentary made by BBC, in cooperation with Canal+.
KARA:
(excitedly)
Oh! Gimme, gimme, gimme!
Wonder Woman tosses the DVD to Kara, who catches it with a gasp and places it in a DVD player below the television. Kara takes her seat in a large couch in front of the television, followed by the rest of the Justice League. They watch in anticipation, the silence in the room punctuated by the occasional whisper of the air conditioning system.
The screen flickers to life, displaying a dramatic opening scene of an ancient stadium filled with rowdy crowds, the thunderous roar of their chants echoing through the Recreation Hall.
NARRATOR (ON TV):
Constantinople, January 532 CE. The Blue and Green factions meet at the Hippodrome for a chariot race when a deadly riot breaks out as part of a political uprising. This was formally known as the Nika riots.
The camera on TV focuses on one of each member of the Blue and Green factions going head-to-head in the stands.
BLUE FAN (ON TV):
(screaming)
Oi, your boy's a flopper, he is!
GREEN FAN (OV TV):
(screams back)
No, he isn't, he isn't!
BLUE FAN (ON TV):
(screams)
Your mother can kiss me bum!
Provoked, the Green fan punches the Blue fan, setting off a chain reaction of chaos throughout the stadium. The scene unfolds in a frenetic montage of flying fists, uprooted benches, and roaring flames that consume the ancient hippodrome.
Emperor Justinian and his empress, Theodora, are shown watching from their box, horrified as the chaos unfolds. The narrator's voice, deep and solemn, explains the historical context of the Nika riots and the significance of the two factions.
NARRATOR (ON TV):
Centuries pass, and this tradition was passed down for many generations to come, creating groups of fans, known as the Ultras, who used games as a cover for political unrest.
The documentary fades to a modern-day soccer match in England, where fans dressed in green and blue face paint and scarves attack each other on the pitch. Kara's eyes widen as she watches, horrified by the violence that seems so out of place in the context of a game she thought was about unity and sportsmanship.
The next scene shifts to the Port Said Stadium in Egypt, the date marked as February 1, 2012. The camera pans over the packed stands, the tension palpable. The narrator's voice is calm yet urgent, detailing the events that would later be known as the Port Said Stadium Riot.
NARRATOR (ON TV; CONT'D):
For example, on the first of February 2012, in Port Said, Egypt, an onslaught on Al Ahly players and their fans by the Ultras of Al-Masry resulted in seventy-four deaths, forcing the government to shut down the domestic league for two years...
On the television, we see President of Egypt at the time of the Port Said Stadium riot, Hosni Mubarak, and his officials watching the scene of death and destruction unfold. Mubarak's face is a mask of horror and disbelief as he realizes the gravity of the situation.
NARRATOR (ON TV; CONT'D):
...only to be repelled by mass protests against cruel and unusual punishments during the Egyptian Crisis from 2011 to 2014.
As Mubarak looks around, he sees the chaos pouring out of the stadium and into the streets of Egypt, spreading the flames of revolution that would soon consume his regime. Kara's eyes are glued to the screen, her heart racing as she fully grasps the depth of the crisis she's been thrust into.
The camera pans up to a clock in the Watchtower's Reaction Hall as we clock-transition to a montage of the game "Jinx" continuing.
INT. WATCHTOWER - RECREATION HALL - LATER
Green Lantern and Flash are playing some video game, and the Flash succeeds.
FLASH:
(excitedly)
Ohhhh! In your face!
Green Lantern punches Flash once more and goes back to playing.
Wipe to:
EXT. KATANA'S BONSAI PARK - DAY
Green Lantern and Flash are wearing sunglasses while strolling along the road when they see a solar eclipse occurring.
GREEN LANTERN:
Whoa! Look!
FLASH:
That's amazing.
Another punch on the Flash from Green Lantern sending the Flash to the ground, but he continues to watch the moon cover the sun entirely.
FLASH (CONT'D):
So beautiful.
Another punch from Green Lantern knocks the Flash into kissing the ground with his face, causing him to moan.
Wipe to:
INT. WATCHTOWER - MAIN ROOM - LATER
GREEN LANTERN (V.O.)
Hey, Flash, get the mail!
The Flash, groaning from his latest punch, stumbles over to the mailbox. He pulls out a package.
FLASH:
What is it?
It's a sucker punch in the face from Green Lantern, right through the package.
Flash's utterings continue over the following...
Cut to:
ANGLE - FLASH
FLASH:
Totally.
(gets punched by Green Lantern)
Oof!
Cut to:
ANGLE - FLASH
FLASH:
Nice.
(gets punched by Green Lantern)
Oof!
Cut to:
ANGLE - FLASH
FLASH:
Come on!
(gets punched by Green Lantern)
Oof!
Cut to:
INT. WATCHTOWER - DINNING ROOM - THE NEXT DAY
We see the Flash and Green Lantern having breakfast. The Flash, with a bruised cheek, takes a bite of his toast while listening to Green Lantern's laughter.
FLASH:
Can you pass the--
Green Lantern punches Flash again, knocking his bowl of cereal over.
FLASH (CONT'D):
GWAH!
The cereal splatters across the floor, leaving a soggy mess. Angrily, the Flash slams the table, stands up, about to yell something, but catches himself.
GREEN LANTERN:
What? What is it? You can tell me anything, Flash.
The Flash growls and sits back down.
GREEN LANTERN (CONT'D):
Flash, you know you can just break the jinx by having someone say your name three times.
The Flash seems surprised.
GREEN LANTERN (CONT'D):
Wait, I didn't tell you that?
The Flash's surprise turns to anger.
GREEN LANTERN (CONT'D):
Hm, I guess I didn't 'cause everybody knows that. I was wondering why you didn't break it sooner.
The Flash, now fully aware of the jinx's rules, storms out of the dining room, his mind racing with plans to find someone to say his name three times.
GREEN LANTERN (CONT'D):
Better keep your mouth shut, 'cause I'll be listening!
Wipe to:
INT. LAUNDROMAT - MEANWHILE
Here, in the humble setting of a laundromat, the Flash frantically searches for someone to break his jinx. His eyes spot the Wonder Twins, Zan and Jayna, who are busy washing the old Justice League spandex uniforms that were tainted by the stink bomb. He approaches them with hope, but without speaking a word, he starts acting out his predicament.
ZAN:
What's he doing here?
JAYNA:
Looks like he's trying to tell us something.
Flash tries to tell the Twins that he's jinxed, but he can't talk, so he tries charades.
The Flash starts flailing his arms around, miming the act of speaking without sound. The Wonder Twins watch him, their expressions a mix of confusion and amusement. He points to his chest and then taps his mouth, emphasizing his inability to speak.
ZAN:
(squinting)
Is he...trying to say something?
JAYNA:
It's like he's trapped in a silent movie.
The Flash grunts, then points to three of his fingers and pats his chest. The Wonder Twins look at each other, bewildered.
ZAN:
I think he's trying to tell us his name is three?
JAYNA:
That doesn't make any sense.
The Flash grunts and holds up three fingers.
ZAN:
Is it a math problem?
JAYNA:
I don't think so.
The Flash gets mad and holds up three fingers and shakes his wrist.
ZAN:
Is he asking for three of something?
JAYNA:
Three of what?
The Flash groans as Green Lantern shows up.
GREEN LANTERN:
What's going on here? Trying to play charades with your own name? That's a new low, even for you.
FLASH:
(growls)
SHUT UP! I'M GOOD!
Green Lantern punches the Flash again. The Twins laugh, not realizing the seriousness of the situation.
ZAN & JAYNA:
(in unison)
Oh, he's jinxed!
GREEN LANTERN:
Haha, yes, you got it, guys!
JAYNA:
Oh, I love a good jinxing.
ZAN:
Me, too.
The Flash groans and speeds off to...
Wipe to:
INT. GENERAL SAMUEL LANE'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Here, in the starkly lit office of General Samuel Lane, the Flash appears, desperation etched on his bruised face.
GENERAL:
What do you want? I'm in the middle of something.
The Flash, desperate, pulls out a piece of paper and a pen from his pocket, scribbling his plight furiously. He holds it up to the General, which says, "I'm jinxed. Say my name 3 times!"
GENERAL (CONT'D):
You know, for some people, writing is talking, so you're kinda breaking the rules.
As a punishment, the General punches the Flash.
FLASH:
Agh! Aw, I didn't even say anything.
GREEN LANTERN:
(punches Flash)
That's what you get for cheating.
GENERAL:
Sounds count too, right?
GREEN LANTERN:
Sounds totally count.
FLASH:
Sounds count?
Green Lantern and the General punch the Flash with both fists. The Flash whines and runs away while Green Lanter and the General laugh.
GREEN LANTERN:
Do you wanna follow him?
GENERAL:
Yeah, why not? I'm not doing anything right now.
The General grabs his hat and follows Green Lantern out of the office, their laughter echoing through the hallways of General Lane's army base.
Cut to:
INT. BELLE REVE PENITENTIARY - COURTYARD - LATER
The Flash arrives at Belle Reve, his mind racing with the need to break the jinx that has plagued him for days. His super-speed eyes scan the courtyard, searching for a friendly face that might help.
FLASH:
Gotta find somebody, gotta find somebody!
And there, amidst the sea of notorious villains, he spots Livewire, her electric-infused hair crackling with energy as she sits on a bench, looking utterly defeated.
FLASH (CONT'D):
Livewire! You gotta help me! You gotta say my name three times!
Livewire looks at him unhappily, not saying anything.
FLASH (CONT'D):
I'm jinxed, and Hal's taking this way too far! You gotta say my name three times!
Livewire shakes her head 'no'.
FLASH (CONT'D):
Come on!
Livewire is still shaking her head 'no'.
FLASH (CONT'D):
(whining)
Why not?!
LIVEWIRE:
Because I'm jinxed, too.
The Flash's eyes widen in shock as he takes in the sight of Livewire, her body spasming and sparking with electricity as she struggles to speak. Giganta, a towering giantess of a villain, stands over her, her meaty fist raised for another punishing blow. She comes out from the bushes and punches Livewire to the ground.
GIGANTA:
Aha! No talking while you're jinxed, loser.
LIVEWIRE:
(weakly)
Help...me...
GIGANTA:
(punching Livewire again)
Shut your mouth!
FLASH:
(quickly)
Livewire, Livewire, Livewire!
With a sudden burst of light and a rush of air, the jinx is broken, and Livewire's body stops convulsing. She looks up at the Flash, her eyes wide with astonishment. Giganta, on the other hand, stands shocked, unable to know what happened.
GIGANTA:
What?!
FLASH:
Now, help me back!
Livewire abruptly leaves, unable to notice the Flash whom she forgets to unjinx.
FLASH (CONT'D):
No, wait!
But Livewire is already gone, and he's left with Giganta standing over him, exasperated.
GIGANTA:
What did you do?
FLASH:
(desperately)
I'm sorry, but I just needed to get rid of my jinx.
GIGANTA:
Why don't you take it off yourself?
The Flash looks up at her, puzzled.
FLASH:
You can do that?
GIGANTA:
Oh, it's easy, alright. So, here's what you gotta do.
Giganta starts whispering something to Flash. The gargantuan villain leans down, her voice a rumble. The Flash nods eagerly, hope sparking in his eyes, and speeds off.
GIGANTA (CONT'D):
Good luck!
The Flash nods gratefully at Giganta, his bruised cheek a testament to his desperation. He takes off in a flash, his mind racing with Giganta's whispered advice just as Green Lantern and the General arrived.
GREEN LANTERN:
Hey, Giganta, seen the Scarlet Speedster?
GIGANTA:
Yeah. I just told that loser how to unjinx himself.
GENERAL:
You didn't tell him about the mirror thing, did you?
GIGANTA:
Yeah, I did. He's just gonna be talking to himself in the dark. It'll be hilarious!
(laughs)
GENERAL:
We gotta stop him!
GREEN LANTERN:
Right! I'll call the rest of the Justice League to find him before I cause another mess!
The lights of the stage dim to the sound of the applause from the theatre audience which fades away after five seconds while the scene is brought apart by the orange prisoner jumpsuit-wearing Legion of Doom led by Lex Luthor, their eyes obliviously seeing in the dark so that they know where they are going while moving props and scenery around and stuff. Soon, the prison scenery is replaced with the interior of an outhouse, which is dimly lit by a swinging light bulb.
Match cut to:
INT. OUTHOUSE - LATER
The Flash, feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation, sprints into the nearby outhouse. When he gets there, he locks the door, turns off the light, walks to the mirror, and turns the hot water on all of the sinks, causing the mirror to fog up. He's about to write his real name "Barry" on the mirror when he hears Green Lantern knocking on the door.
GREEN LANTERN (O.S.):
(from outside)
Flash, open up! Come on, let us in!
FLASH:
No way, GL. You guys are just gonna hit me again!
Kara's voice, firm yet reassuring, cuts through the wood of the outhouse door.
KARA (O.S.):
Flash, it's me. Kara. I promise we're not going to hit you. We just want to help you break the jinx.
FLASH:
Well, just break it now, then!
GENERAL (O.S.):
That's not how it works. It's gotta happen face to face.
The Flash groans and walks back to the mirror.
GREEN LANTERN (O.S.; CONT'D):
No, Flash! Giganta doesn't know what she's talking about!
Ignoring Green Lantern's knocking, the Flash continues to write his name on the mirror and sees that everything he writes on the mirror becomes backwards above it.
FLASH:
Whoa!
The Flash quickly writes the rest of his name and stands back, revealing the words "YRRAB" in a perfect mirror image. He stares at it for a moment, realization dawning on him.
FLASH (CONT'D):
Barry...
Lightning is heard and a dark figure is seen in the mirror.
FLASH (CONT'D):
Barry...
Lightning is heard again, and the dark figure is seen again.
FLASH (CONT'D):
Barry.
As he says his name aloud for the third time, the mirror's surface ripples like water before a monstrous hand, skeletal and cloaked in shadow, comes out of the mirror. The Black Flash, a terrifying specter of the speedster's fears, emerges from the reflection, his eyes burning with an unholy light, trying to scratch the Flash. The Flash avoids the attack and runs to the sinks, panting.
Black Flash roars, making the Flash scream. Black Flash attacks the Flash again, disconnecting a sink from the wall as the Flash runs into a stall. In it, a man is seen reading on the toilet.
MAN:
Do you mind? I'm trying to get some reading done.
The Flash, panic-stricken, gets out of the stall when he sees Black Flash, and speeds off while Black Flash breaks the stall and sees the man.
Cut to:
EXT. OUTHOUSE - SAME
The rest of the Justice League, even General Lane, have already converged outside the outhouse. Green Lantern is still knocking on the door.
GREEN LANTERN:
Flash, open up! Flash!
The Flash speeds out of the outhouse, screaming.
FLASH:
Don't go in there! It's not safe!
The man in the stall is seen thrown through the roof of the outhouse and lands on the ground after receiving three long scratches on his back from Black Flash.
SUPERMAN, BATMAN, WONDER WOMAN, GREEN LANTERN, SUPERGIRL, & GENERAL LANE:
(wincing)
Ooh!
GENERAL:
That guy's dead.
The man gets up and transforms into a zombie, similar to the Black Flash. He turns around and growls at them.
SUPERMAN:
That guy's not dead.
Black Flash crashes through the wall of the outhouse and stands next to the first zombie it created. The Justice League and General Lane scream.
SUPERMAN (CONT'D):
Let's get out of here!
The League and General Lane sprint away from the outhouse, the night air filled with their terrified cries as the Black Flash and the newly created zombie give chase.
Cut to:
EXT. HERO CITY STREETS - CONTINUOUS
...where we find a man jogging, oblivious to the Justice League and General Lane running across his path as he wears headphones while listening to music, when he notices Black Flash as it scratches him, causing him to transform into a zombie but he still continues to jog just like he did earlier.
Cut to a couple hugging each other as the Justice League and General Lane run across their path; they scream at the sight of Black Flash until it scratches them, turning them into zombies as well.
Cut to:
INT. BELLE REVE - CAFETERIA - MEANWHILE
The Legion of Doom is watching the chaos resulting from a chain reaction caused by Black Flash on TV. They are astonished by the carnage unfolding before their eyes, yet they feel worried for their safety, knowing that the situation is spinning out of control, lest Black Flash attacks Belle Reve as well.
Giganta and Livewire are seen all the way in the back, commentating.
GIGANTA:
Oh, well. At least we're safe here behind bars - where we belong.
LIVEWIRE:
Maybe we don't belong in the outside world after all.
GIGANTA:
Why not?
LIVEWIRE:
(sarcastically)
Because the Justice League's track record with jinxes is so great.
Giganta and Livewire laugh, a la Statler and Waldorf. The rest of the Legion of Doom follow suit, knowing there is absolutely nothing to worry about.
Cut to:
EXT. WAYNE MANOR - MEANWHILE
Having escaped from the chaos, the Justice League and General Lane race there, their superhero instincts kicking in as they realize they're dealing with something beyond their usual battles.
BATMAN:
Inside Wayne Manor! It's our only chance!
The Justice League and General Lane sprint into the vast manor where they are safe.
Once the coast is clear, a large boulder moves, revealing the hidden entrance to the Batcave.
The Batmobile, sleek and armored, rumbles to life in the cavernous depths of the Batcave as Batman makes his latest combat long on his digital logbook.
BATMAN (CONT'D):
Combat log: Friday the 13th. By unleashing a jinx monster known as the "Black Flash", we've inadvertently triggered a new crisis. The Flash's name game has gone from a harmless prank to a full-blown zombie apocalypse. I fear we're out of our depth since the aftermath of our encounter with the Trickster.
After Batman ends his log, we see the interior of the Batmobile packed with the Justice League and General Lane, all looking a bit cramped and uncomfortable.
FLASH:
Oh, please, Batman! It was just a harmless joke!
WONDER WOMAN:
Okay, and you are?
FLASH:
(misunderstanding Wonder Woman)
In serious need of some personal space.
GREEN LANTERN:
(punches Flash)
Shut up!
(suddenly realizes)
Wait, maybe the monster will go away if I un-jinx you.
BATMAN:
Exactly. This Batmobile is zombie-proof.
FLASH:
Yeah, well, I didn't exactly summon it. It just kind of...happened.
SUPERMAN:
As long as all seven of us are still in one piece, I suppose we can handle anything - even zombies.
Cut to:
EXT. DOWNTOWN HERO CITY - MEANWHILE
Lois has taken her position in front of the zombie horde, her camera rolling. The scene is chaotic, with people running in every direction, their screams echoing through the streets. The camera pans to show a terrified citizen being chased by a group of zombies, their eyes glazed over and their movements jerky.
LOIS:
(serious)
This is Lois Lane reporting live downtown Hero City, where an unprecedented event is unfolding. A horde of zombies, seemingly triggered by an incident at the countryside of town, are now spreading terror through the streets.
The camera shakes as Lois turns her attention to Jimmy, who stumbles towards her with a crazed look in his eyes. His skin is pale and clammy, and his clothes are tattered.
LOIS (CONT'D):
Jimmy? Oh no, not you too!
The camera captures the heart-wrenching moment as Lois fends off her friend with a stunning blow to the face. She quickly grabs the microphone, her voice crackling with urgency.
LOIS (CONT'D):
We've got to get out of here!
The camera view jolts as Lois sprints away from the horde of zombies, her heart racing as she sees the once familiar face of Jimmy Olsen among them. One of the zombies smashes the camera with its foot, causing the live feed to cut out abruptly.
Cut to:
INT. BATMOBILE - SAME
The Justice League and General Lane huddle around the Batmobile's computer screens, their expressions a mix of horror and disbelief as the breaking news unfolds. Lois's face is a mask of shock as she reports the zombie outbreak, and when the image of a rabid Jimmy Olsen charges at her, the feed cuts off.
SUPERMAN & GENERAL:
My baby!
BATMAN:
Blast, they're onto her! What do we do now?
GENERAL:
I've seen this before. You gotta--
Suddenly, before the General could finish his sentence, a zombie appears in front of them, clinging onto the Batmobile's glass hood, its teeth snapping at the air, scaring them all. Kara, purely terrified, lets out a long, piercing Sonic Scream which shatters the windows of the Batmobile and stuns the zombie temporarily.
WONDER WOMAN:
(surprised)
What was that?
KARA:
Uh...Sonic Scream.
GREEN LANTERN:
Well, don't look now, but your operatic soprano voice just attracted an audience!
A stampede of zombies, driven by the insatiable hunger for flesh and blood, rushes towards the Batmobile, their roars, growls and snarls a cacophony of horror.
FLASH:
They see us! Abandon Batmobile!
Cut to:
EXT. HERO CITY - COUNTRYSIDE - SAME
In a flash, the League and General Lane sprint out of the car, leaping into the nearest tree, their hearts racing. The zombies, drawn by the commotion, swarm the Batmobile like a pack of ravenous animals. The once sleek and mighty vehicle of justice is now a crumpled wreck, its metal frame groaning and buckling under the relentless assault. The Batmobile's lights flicker and die as the horde tears into it, leaving only shards of glass and twisted metal in its wake.
Batman watches in horror as the Batmobile, a symbol of their collective might, is torn apart by the ravenous horde.
BATMAN:
Not my ride!
SUPERMAN:
Well, General, I believe you were saying something about your experience with zombies?
GENERAL:
I've seen worse in my day, but not much.
KARA:
So, what do we do now?
GENERAL:
We need to get to the news building. That's where my daughter was last.
WONDER WOMAN:
But the streets are overrun, and we don't even have another vehicle to hide ourselves in.
GENERAL:
Oh, that's easy to do, missy...
The General slides down the tree, his military instincts kicking in as he assesses the situation. Then, he starts running away in a comedic manner, a la Joseph Joestar from "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Battle Tendency"
GENERAL (CONT'D):
We just run away as fast as we can! Later, Justice League!
The General takes off, his age not hindering his surprising speed. The Justice League exchanges confused glances.
KARA:
(a la Saitama, a la "One Punch Man")
Okay...
The Justice League watches in amazement as General Lane sprints away from the zombie horde with surprising agility.
SUPERMAN:
Well, if he can do it, so can we. Justice League, ADVANCE!
The League's battle cry echoes through the night, a declaration of unity and power that sends shivers down the spines of the zombies. With a fierce determination, they spring into action, each member's unique power complementing the others'.
Cut to:
EXT. DAILY PLANET NEWS BUILDING - LATER
Here, the zombies must have gone somewhere else to rampage. Although the General went ahead of the Justice League, but now, it looks like they're on their own, their superhuman eyes scanning for any sign of life—or unlife, as the case may be. The silence is eerie as Batman searches the Daily Planet News Building inside, only to return outside, looking grim.
SUPERMAN:
Any luck, Batman?
BATMAN:
(grimly)
No, Superman. She's...gone.
The Justice League exchanges grimed looks, knowing they have failed to save Lois from the clutches of the zombie apocalypse. They stand before the Daily Planet News Building, their hearts heavy with dread.
SUPERMAN:
Then we're too late...
Suddenly, a zombified Lois Lane stands behind them, clad in Michael Jackson's iconic "Thriller" attire, including a red jacket and a pair of black leather pants, her eyes glowing with a sinister light. The Justice League gasps in horror, their worst fears realized.
SUPERMAN (CONT'D):
Yeah, we're definitely too late!
The zombie horde, now with Lois at its forefront, starts performing a macabre dance routine, moving in sync with the iconic beats of Michael Jackson's "Thriller". The Justice League stares in disbelief, unable to reconcile the image of their fearless journalist with the grotesque creature before them.
ZOMBIE LOIS:
(singing)
'Cause this is thriller, thriller night
There ain't no second chance against the thing with forty eyes, girl
Thriller, thriller night
You're fighting for your life inside a killer, thriller, ow
Thriller, thriller night
'Cause I can thrill you more than any ghoul would ever dare try
Thriller, thriller night
So let me hold you tight and share a killer, thriller
Chiller, thriller here tonight
'Cause this is thriller, thriller night
Girl, I can thrill you more than any ghoul would ever dare try
Thriller, thriller night
So let me hold you tight and share a killer, thriller, ow
SUPERMAN:
Let's get out of here!
The Justice League sprints away from the unexpectedly rhythmic zombie mob, their laughter and disbelief mixing with the horror of the moment. The zombies pursue them, their dance steps turning into a jerky, relentless chase.
Cut to:
EXT. HERO CITY - COUNTRYSIDE - SAME
The Justice League runs back to where they started.
FLASH:
You've gotta say my real name if I'm gonna be unjinxed! Do it now, Hal!
GREEN LANTERN:
Alright. Barry, Barry, Barry!
Flash tenses, then relaxes.
Did it work?
The Justice League stops and looks behind them, only to see no one.
FLASH:
I think so.
Suddenly, Black Flash lands in front of them from out of the trees. The Justice League members gulp in unison, but instead of attacking, he simply stops and glares at them, his shadowy form looming over the scene like a dark cloud.
GREEN LANTERN:
I thought you said it worked!
FLASH:
We're all gonna die!
BATMAN:
Not yet, Flash! Think. What happened while you were in that outhouse nearby?
FLASH:
I said my name three times, and that thing came out of the mirror!
SUPERMAN:
What else, Flash, what else?
FLASH:
I locked the door, turned on the water, shut off the light...
SUPERMAN:
The mirror! We gotta get back to that mirror!
The Justice League sprints back towards the outhouse, the zombies close behind them. They slam the door shut just in time, locking themselves in with the Black Flash still outside.
FLASH:
I don't think that's gonna help, guys!
SUPERMAN:
What?!
The Justice League sees the huge hole in the wall and Black Flash hops in front of it. Black Flash howls, calling the rest of the zombies to the outhouse. The Leaguers look around the cramped space, desperation setting in.
SUPERMAN (CONT'D)
Do it, Flash, do it! We'll hold them off!
FLASH:
(looking at the mirror)
Barry, Barry, Barry!
(pause; bangs on the mirror)
Come on! They're still coming! Help!
GREEN LANTERN:
(boarding up the hole with wooden boards projected from his Power Ring)
Oh, no, I am not getting eaten by zombies tonight.
Zombies begin to peek through, and Green Lantern smashes them with a hammer also projected from his Power Ring.
GREEN LANTERN (CONT'D):
Get your stinking paws off me, you big, dirty apes!
KARA:
I'll help you! Together!
The two heroes stand side by side, their breaths misting up the mirror.
FLASH & KARA:
Barry, Barry, Barry!
They turn around and see the rest of the Justice League getting mauled by a zombified General Lane and other zombies as they break through the barricade. The General's eyes are glazed over, and he's attacking Superman, who is trying to hold him back. Black Flash jumps through the hole in the ceiling, roars, and lands in the outhouse.
FLASH & KARA (CONT'D):
(banging the mirror while Black Flash runs towards them)
Barry, Barry, Barry! Barry, Barry, Barry!
Their breath creates a fog on the mirror which reveals the name "Barry" both in reverse and forwards, as if written by an invisible hand. The zombies' growls grow louder, their foul breath filling the outhouse. The Flash, sweat pouring down his face, whispers to Kara...
FLASH:
His name's in reverse!
FLASH & KARA:
Yrrab, Yrrab, Yrrab!
The scene goes to slow-motion as Black Flash leaps foward, about to infect both Flash and Kara. The zombies stop their advance for a brief second, their undead eyes locked onto the mirror's reflection. Soon, a portal in the mirror opens, and Black Flash is sucked into it, and a white screen is shown for a second.
Fade to:
EXT. HERO CITY SQUARE - DAY
Everything returns to normal, and the citizens of Hero City, once zombies, begin to apologize to one another for their bites, their eyes returning to normal. The air is filled with the sound of "I'm sorry," "It wasn't me," and "I don't know what came over me!" The Justice League, panting and bruised, watches the bizarre spectacle unfold from the safety of the outhouse, their expressions a mix of relief and utter confusion. The Flash looks at his hand, no longer jinxed.
Lois Lane, back to her usual self, runs into Superman's arms, her face a picture of joy and relief.
LOIS:
Clark! You did it! You saved us once again!
SUPERMAN:
Yes, it's nice to see you again, too, bunny-feet.
Superman and Lois kiss. The Justice League members watch with varying degrees of nausea.
General Lane approaches the Justice League, impressed by their victory over the zombie outbreak. His eyes are sharp, a stark contrast to his slightly disheveled appearance.
GENERAL:
Looks like you people had quite the adventure without me. I knew my mind was a steel trap, but I didn't expect to remember this. And don't ever scare me like that again, mmm-hmm.
BATMAN:
(smiling)
We won't.
The General walks away as Mayor General Glory, the Mayor of Hero City, takes his place on the podium to address the citizens. His voice booms over the town square, which is now a sea of relieved and slightly bewildered faces.
MAYOR GLORY:
And so, the Day of Apologizing has come to an end.
(takes a medal from his press secretary)
And now, I shall present this medallion to the hero who played the most crucial role in saving our fair city from the jaws of certain doom.
(to Kara)
What's your name, dear?
KARA:
Kara Zor-El.
MAYOR GLORY:
Kara Zor-El, with this medal, I hereby dub you...
(pauses dramatically) 
Supergirl! You have served the Justice League well...as their first junior member!
(puts medal on Kara)
Citizens of Hero City, rejoice!
CITIZENS:
Huzzah!
MAYOR:
Rejoice!
CITIZENS:
Huzzah!
MAYOR:
Rejoice!
The crowd cheers amid the chants of "Huzzah!" - even Green Lantern joins the cheering, his Power Ring projecting confetti into the air.
Kara looked down at the gleaming medallion around her neck, the words "JL's First Junior Member" engraved upon it. The weight of the recognition felt both thrilling and overwhelming. The cheers of the crowd were a symphony of validation, their applause echoing through the town square. She couldn't believe that she, a young Kryptonian still finding her place on Earth, had played such a pivotal role in saving Hero City from the bizarre zombie apocalypse.
FLASH:
(in tears)
Oh, Batman, I'm so proud of Kara.
BATMAN:
(smiling)
So are we, Flash. Even though she's still a junior member of our team, she's finally earned her place. I want us all to accept the fact that Krypton may be gone but its legacy lives on through her and Superman. In other words, she's going to live among us from here on out. So, we've got to watch out for her at all times.
WONDER WOMAN:
Agreed.
As Kara basks in the cheers of the crowd, Superman approaches her, his eyes gleaming with pride as he puts his hand on her shoulder. The weight of his touch is comforting, a silent acknowledgment of her bravery and determination.
SUPERMAN:
That'll do, Kara, that'll do.
The words hung in the air, simple yet profound, as Superman offered Kara a warm smile. Her heart swelled with pride as she looked up at her hero, the one who had inspired her to become the hero she was today. Without a word, she nodded, understanding the gravity of the moment. The Justice League had not only survived the zombie apocalypse, but they had also uncovered a newfound respect for their youngest member.
The End!