Spectrum's Comments: So how does it end?
With the stories at a stand still for the moment, I was thinking about how the situations were all left at. That in turn made thing about the first time this all happened with those stories we call "the old stuff" on which this is based. Everything in those stories was also left in mid-story as well.
While I was reminiscing about this stories, I thought I'd share them with everyone. In a weird way these last issues set up many things that we never got around to finishing. It'll perhaps give you some idea just where things might have ended up…
So without any further adieu here is where Spectrum, Morningstar, Muskateer, and the Enchantress ended up at the first time around. The writing is crude as we've warned about before, but there is some fun stuff here.
For those who know how I work, the following shouldn't come as any surprise. I was in the middle of several very long storylines when things all came to an end. So I need to include some back-story here to help make sense of things.
First up on deck is Spectrum #13, which was the last issue written of this series. I started writing Specturm's solo adventures with the 9th issue. The first 8 were a pair of 4 issues mini-series that Muskateer did that were later moved into this title.
Spectrum and Morningstar are a couple by this time, but there is much more going on behind the scenes. Spectrum is in the process of falling under the control of not one, but two villains! The first is Hexmaster, which is somewhat similar to what we did in Spectrum #25 on the website. He beamed a control device right into Spectrum's brain and, if need be, he could cause it to explode! The second force was the lich Azalin, who had the hots for the Enchantress.
Spectrum just had the device placed into him and was dumped back at the X-Factor base. In the previous issue, there's a scene where he's resting in bed and Morningstar gives him some sleeping pills. They talk for a time and Denise suggests that he write a 30's noir mystery novel. Jim falls asleep and his overactive imagination takes over.
It is November 13th, 1986
It was raining in the City of Angles. A rain hard enough to wash the slime off the streets. The night was hot and steamy. The ceiling fan barely moved the thick air around my office. After the fist shot of rotgut, I no longer felt the heat.
It had been a boring and uninteresting night, until she walked in. The well-sculptured face... Those succulent lips trembled slightly... The tempting eyes flashed worry.
I stood and found the rest of her to be just as good. This dame had more curves than Carter had pills. In all the right places too. Sayin' that she was beautiful was like sayin' the Babe was another baseball player.
"The name is Sculley", I said, "James Sculley, private eye. What's the problem, dollface?"
"My name is Denise Long, Mr. Sculley. I need your help desperately. Someone is trying to kill me!"
Spectrum #13 - "The Big Siesta"
Her words washed over my sweaty brow like cold water. My mind cleared instantly. How could anyone want to rub out a dish like this? In my mind I accepted the case. Not totally on professional grounds.
This gumshoe racket is a funny one. One minute I'm making love to a bottle of whiskey, the next a beautiful woman is placing her life in my hands.
"Take a seat, Ms. Long. Why don't you tell me about it?"
She crossed the room with an elegant walk and parked herself on the chair before my desk. She took a moment to regain her composure. As she sat, her violet dress-- custom made from the look-- climbed her legs revealing her well-formed calves.
"My father is-- excuse me, I should say was-- Richard Long, the millionaire."
I mentally flashed back to the articles I read over the last few days. Long was found dead in his mansion last week under unusual circumstances. With Mrs. Long gone, that left the whole bakery truck to his two kids: Denise and Larry.
"My condolences, Ms. Long."
"Thank you. These last few days have been such a trial... I don't know where to turn..."
She broke off into a sob. My hand produced a handkerchief almost by reflex.
"Here. Take this."
She quietly accepted the handkerchief and wiped the tears away. That did it. She hooked me into this case for good.
"Why don't we go over here and discuss your problem?", I said as I offered my hand to her. She took my hand and I lead her to the sofa. We sat side by side and I waited until she could continue with her story.
"Thank you. You are most kind."
"Just tryin' to help a lovely lady with a serious problem."
"As you are aware, my brother Larry and I are the sole inheritors of my father's rather sizable estate."
"So I've read", I commented.
Keeping an ear on Denise, I continued to recall bits of the story. This Richard Long was the typical playboy-brat. He had a reputation for fast-cars and fast-women. The only thing he was faster at was blowin' money at the track.
"Over the last several days there have been several accidents around me. At first I thought nothing of them, but now I realize that someone has been trying to do away with me."
"So what cinched it in your mind?"
"A mere hour ago someone took a shot at me in the street. I ran.... I was terrified... Finally, I found a phone booth. I decided to get help. You were the closest private detective."
"So here you are", I concluded. "Why didn't you call the police? This is more their line of work."
She paused for a moment. There was something that she wasn't telling me. What was this secret?
"Will you take the case, Mr. Sculley?", she said.
"That all depends on you."
"Money is no object."
"That's not what I meant. If I'm going to work for you I want to know everything. The whole truth."
She flashed a troubled look and reached into her purse.
"Will this due for a retainer?"
She handed me a roll of bills.
"Rather nicely.", I said trying to maintain an air of indifference. "But that still doesn't answer my question."
"What I am about to tell is confidential."
"My client's affairs are always held in the strictest confidence."
"Let's just say", she began, "that a good portion of my father's fortune was gained in ways that the authorities would not approve of."
"I get the picture, sister. The old man pulled a few fast ones on the climb up?"
"Something to that effect."
"Getting back to the attempt on your life, do you have any idea who would want you dead?"
"The only person who would profit from my death would be my brother Larry."
"How so?", I asked.
"You see, my father's will is to be read tomorrow morning. He will name me to be the executor of the estate. Daddy did not wish for the family fortune to fall into my brother's hands."
"I get it. He'd be on your leash, so to speak. But if you were to have an 'accident', the whole ball of wax would be his."
"Yes. Within a year he would throw the whole fortune away", she said with disgust.
"So all I have to do is keep you alive until the reading of the will tomorrow. Doesn't sound to tough."
Just then a large black man broke into my office. I instinctively put myself in front of Ms. Long.
"Tougher than you think, gumshoe", he said.
"Look, you big gorilla, where you get off bustin' in here? And get that rod out of my face!"
Big talk on my part. This goon was powerfully built. He could easily take me apart.
"Take a powder, Mac. Just let Denise come with me and no one will be hurt."
"It's my brother's driver, Neal" Denise said.
"So what cage did he let you out of?"
"I'm warning you... I know how to use this piece." The driver waved his rod before my face.
"I believe you do. Take the dame. She's been nothin' but a bother since comin' here."
"What?!?", Denise shouted. I gave her a slight wink as I moved to the front of my desk.
"Now you're making sense, gumshoe."
As Neal walked up to Denise, a reached behind my back and picked up the paperweight on my desk. In a quick motion, I brought the paperweight down on the gorilla's skull. He crashed to the floor like a ton of bricks.
"All you thugs are alike. Long on muscle, short on brains."
Ms. Long ran across the room and threw her arms around me.
"You were wonderful, Mr. Sculley! I knew I made the right decision in coming here!"
"Easy, doll, I might break. And please, just call me Jim. We better get out of here before any more of your brother's torpedoes show. Follow me, Ms. Long."
"Just call me Denise, Mr-- Jim."
"Okay, Denise. Let me just make a quick call, and we'll get you to safety."
Things fell into place quickly. We drove to the Long Estate. There's an old saying that the best place to hide is in the open. I figured that the goons wouldn't be looking here. Wrong.
The moment we entered the house, we came face to face with Larry. He was packin' a piece and had some dish on his arm.
"Well, well, well, what do we have here?", Larry said smugly, waving his pistol toward us.
"You must be the brat", I said.
"Kill them, Larry", the dish said. "Kill them and the Long fortune is all ours."
"Forgive my manors, Mr. Sculley," Larry said. "Allow me to introduce Diana Lacey, my-- partner."
"Lucky Lacey." I said. "A small fish in a big pond. Lady, you make sleaze look good."
"You dare!", she screamed. "Kill them now!"
"Patience, my pet. All in good time."
"There is no need to do this, Larry. It isn't too late."
"Save the last minute appeal, Denise", I said. "From what I can guess, your baby brother is in this up to his eyeballs."
"Quite correct. I needed money, desperately. The old man wouldn't come through. So he had to be eliminated."
"You killed father?!? How could you?"
Denise began to weep.
"Let me guess, junior. Old gamblin' debts are being called in. Larry didn't have the money to pay."
"I didn't want to do it. He left me no choice."
"As we now have no choice", Lacey added.
"Actually you do have a choice. Whether to go on trial for three murders instead of one. Okay,
Lieutenant, you can bring your boys in now."
"What are you talking about?", Larry said.
"I took the liberty of inviting a few guests to the little get-together."
The door opened and my good friend Lieutenant Scanlin walked in.
"Good work, Jim. We heard everything."
"You set me up!", Larry screamed. "I'll get you for this! No matter how long it takes!"
"See you in twenty", I waved as Larry and Lacey were hauled out by the cops.
"Come down to the station tomorrow and we'll get your statements. 'Night."
Denise was still over-awed by the events of the last few minutes. I moved closer.
"It's all over, kiddo. You're safe now."
We embraced and our lips drew close.
Later that night, I turned the lights off in the Master Bedroom. Thus ended the case that really changed my life the most.
THE END
Jim rolled over and opened his eyes. It was morning now. A woman entered the room and pulled the blinds aside. Sunlight poured into the room, momentarily blinding him.
"Are we feeling better today?", she said.
Jim - So for so good. Why don't you come over here?
"Feeling frisky today, lover? I can accommodate that."
The woman stepped out of the light. Jim's eyes cleared and then widened at what he saw.
"What's the matter? You look like you've seen a ghost?"
Standing before him was Whitney Parks.
To Be Continued!
Spectrum's Comments:
But what you don't know is that Whitney Parks was actually dead by this point, so from Jim's point of view, she was a ghost. With the exception of Larry and the policeman, everyone in the story was re-imagined version of X-Factor. Denise is of course Morningstar, Neal Photon, and Diana Lacey was the original name of Spinnerette. It was a fun story to write, as it was so different from anything else.
The Avengers are in the midst of their own very long story as well. And the Spectrum story does intersect with it. First off here's the Spectrum side of things. Fortunately I kept notes on this, so this is not from memory.
Spectrum #14 was going to be called "The Road Not Taken" and it has Jim now being influenced by Hexmaster. Basically, he's re-living everything that happened to him starting with walking up in the Arena environment in Spectrum #1 online. But this time, Spectrum really is a villain and events lead to the formation of a criminal X-Factor complete with Shadow Queen, Icicle, Black Mamba, Mindslayer, and Giganto.
Spectrum #15 was "The Reality Problem". The Dark X-Factor story continues until Azalin exerts his control, breaking Hexmaster's hold on Spectrum. The other members of X-Factor overpower Spectrum and they now have to decide what to do to him. They believe that he is possessed.
Spectrum #16 would have been "Influences". Morningstar travels to New York with Spectrum in an effort to free him from this possession. The meet up with Muskateer and the Enchantress, but this is what Azalin was hoping for. He takes full control of Spectrum and teleports away with the Enchantress!
Spectrum #17 is "Mix-n-Match". I thought this was a real fun idea at the time to approach the characters relationships from a completely different angle. In this one, Muskateer and Morningstar team up to find Spectrum and the Enchantress. They track the pair to Azalin's lair, battle through the defenses he has, but then fall under his spell at the end.
Spectrum #18 was to be "Dark Passions". Azalin solves the Muskateer and Morningstar problem, by hypnotizing them to fall in love with each other while he marries the Enchantress! But Photon shows up to ruining everything and stops the wedding. Azalin is purged from Spectrum's body and he's back to normal again.
Spectrum #19 is "Holiday". Jim and Denise decide to get away for a while after the Azalin fiasco. They take a romantic cruise together. Everything is fine until Hexmaster's exerts his control once more and Spectrum turns evil just Agents of Raven attack the ship.
Spectrum #20 was to be "Spectrums of Hate". Morningstar battles Raven and the suddenly villainous Spectrum. Spectrum violently defeats Morningstar, breaking her heart in the process.
It this event that lead to the all-new, all-different X-Factor with Tarantula and Victrix as members.
Time passed, and Spectrum's story was picked up in the Avengers. It's now January 1987 and the Avengers cross paths with the villainous Spectrum in Avengers #58 "Spectrums of Deceit". They defeat him in Avengers #59 "Hexed" and they discover the mind control device in his brain. Dr. Morgan Williams notes that surgery would be difficult as it was beamed into his brain. Superwoman suggests using her amulet to destroy it, but they decide to hold off. Her amulet only destroys non-living things. The Avengers raid Hexmaster's base and he sends the self-destruct signal to Spectrum's implant.
But, it fails as revealed in Avengers #60 "Prelude to War". Dr. Williams had Rihalla, a super teleporter, move him and Spectrum back to the base on Mars. (To long a story to cover that here.) Thus the signal doesn't reach the device triggering the explosion. The Hexmaster the team captured self-destructed. It was an android. The days pass on Mars as Spectrum recovers and comes to grips with what has happened to him. Not surprisingly, he falls into depression and becomes possessed by the demon Dysp're. (Another long story.) Nightengale has gone to try and help Jim deal with his troubles.
Meanwhile, the Avengers have their own problems. They fought against Darkside earlier in the "Come Endless Darkness" mini-series. (More or less the same as DC's "Great Darkness Saga") To gain revenge, Darkside has brought the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse alive and let them loose on Earth. Avengers #61-63 ("Trouble in Tripoli", "A Private Little War", & "War Zone") has the team confronting War. Avengers #64-65 ("Famine in the Far East" & "Playin' the Palace") features the battle against Famine. Starting with #66 ("Pestilence In Panama") they battle Pestilence. There were Spectrum prologues throughout all of these issues, continuing his story. The whole Four Horsemen Scenario was based on a DC hero's game adventure.
Next up are a few snippets from the Avengers. Specifically the start of Avengers #67, and pieces from Avengers #72-74 that were written while both Muskateer and I were together. You'll understand why once you get into those.
Prologue: Mars base...
In a deserted room, Nightengale set her burden down. She moved to his side and concentrated. Her thoughts met his. Suddenly, the world shifted around her. She floated in the void of thought.
Nightengale - Hmmm? I've never had a reaction such as this....
'That is because I willed it!'
'Gale whirled to be confronted by a figure in an all-black outfit.
Nightengale - Spectrum, I presume?
'Spectrum no longer is in control here, woman! I feed on his despair. As I shall feed upon your death!'
Nightengale - That remains to be seen!
However, Spectrum was much to fast. He fired off several blasts of light before 'Gale to react. She slumped, on the verge of losing consciousness. Confidently, Spectrum flow closer and closer to the kill...
The Avengers #67 - "Plague"
The Avengers had regrouped at the tiny village of San Andre. All of the villagers were now dead, apparently slain by a new version of the black plague.
Enchantress - There is no doubt that rats were the carriers of the disease.
Muskateer - From what I've heard from the doctors here, people infected with the disease are not contagious.
Valkyrie - 'Tis sorcery at it's most foulest! Truly black magicks.
Enchantress - The disease alters the victims' blood chemistry. It turns the blood black.
Firehawk - Totally gross!
Superwoman - We must do something about this. If the rats are indeed the carriers, then we must follow them back to their master: Pestilence.
But as the heroes prepare to board the Quinnjet, a Panamanian officer runs up. He explains, in somewhat broken English, that the President has placed a call for the team.
Superwoman - I'll see what he wants. Everyone just wait here.
As Supes walks off, Musky takes a seat at the controls.
Muskateer - This has not been my week...
Spectrum's Comments: And that's as far as Avengers #67 got. But there are the following snippets that we co-wrote. Avengers #68 "Black Magic" saw the defeat of Pestilence and that just left Death to deal with. Traveling to Denver, the team battled Death and his doomsday weapon in what would have covered issues #69-71 ("Death in Denver", "Doomsday and Counting", & "Incarnations of Doom".)
When all seemed lost during the battle against the Doomsday Weapon, Spectrum had Rihalla teleport him back. His arrival distracted Death giving the Avengers the chance to win and stop the Doomsday Weapon. But his assistance was at a heavy price, as the device in his brain was getting ready to explode. Having no other choice Superwoman uses her amulet, destroying the implant and Spectrum falls unconscious. Muskateer was badly injured in the battle and is also in the hospital as we pick up our snippet.
Oh, and there's one other thing that I should mention since I hadn't yet. There's been tension between Muskateer and the Enchantress as of late. He wants to leave New York and she doesn't. It's now May 1987.
Avengers #72 - "The Quiet Hours"
In a nearby room, Muskateer recuperates from injuries of his own. Gwen enters his room.
Gwen - Well, this is a switch.
Muskateer - Better me than you. And don't make me laugh. My ribs still hurt.
Gwen - The doctor says you will be released probably tomorrow.
Muskateer - That's good to hear.
Silence fills the room.
Gwen - What am I going to do with you...
Muskateer - Funny, being laid up like this has given me plenty of time to think.
Gwen - Oh? You've given up this leaving nonsense?
Muskateer - Not completely, but I seem to be faced with a quandary. I don't want to leave you behind, and yet I don't feel like I can live in New York, especially not full-time...
Gwen - You definitely have a problem.
Muskateer - Yeah. (pause) I'm really not sure WHAT to do at this point.
Gwen - You have this knack of getting yourself into situations like this.
Muskateer - What's that supposed to mean?
Gwen - Nothing.
Muskateer - Oh, come on....! What? You know I hate it when you do that.
Gwen - Forget I said it, I wasn't thinking.
Muskateer - (Sigh) Well, at least you haven't accused me of being an insensitive oaf, yet. I expected that sooner or later. Um, I'm not changing the subject or anything, but do you think you could find it in your heart to go get me a glass of orange juice?
Gwen - I suppose, you insensitive oaf. There, I said it, are you happy now?
Muskateer - I asked you not to make me laugh...Ooh, that hurts...
Gwen - Serves you right. Be right back.
She turns and leaves.
Muskateer - Man, you're a jerk!
Spectrum lay in the intensive care unit of the Denver Memorial Hospital.
Nurse - I'm sorry, but visitors are being kept to a minimum. He is in critical condition and we've been keeping him sedated.
Denise - I just would like to see him. I'm not going to disturb him.
The Enchantress walked up.
Gwen - I'll vouch for her nurse. There's nothing to worry about.
Nurse - It's against my better judgment,...but all right. You can have five minutes.
Denise - Thanks. (To Gwen) Thanks for the help.
Gwen - You're welcome. Is it my imagination, or is it extremely depressing in here?
Denise - Hospitals usually are... Would you please excuse me?
Gwen - Sure. I know exactly how you feel. Men, you can't live with them, and you can't live without them.
Denise - Exactly.
She manages a tight smile and enters Spectrum's room.
Denise - Thanks, again.
Spectrum lay in the hospital bed in none to good shape. She stood at the edge of the room for a moment, almost afraid to come closer.
After a few moments, she stepped up to the edge of the bed, and wiped a tear from her cheek. She reaches down and gently takes his hand in hers.
Denise - You know, Jim, life's funny. I... fully expected to never see you again, ...after... and now, to see you like this. After all that's happened... I wish you could hear me right now... (sniff) I loved you....then I hated you... And now, I feel torn apart... God, I wish there was something I could do right now! I feel so helpless...
She turned away, her hand wiping more tears away.
Denise - Just get better, Jim... You have to....
She turned and quietly walked out the door.
The door to Muskateer's room opened again, and Gwen reentered.
Gwen - Here you go.
Muskateer - Thanks.
He downs the glass in one gulp.
Muskateer - One of my problems is that I've never settled down in one place for very long. My parents were all over, then it carried over when I went out on my own. I'm just used to being on the move. You know, whatever seems to be the best at the time.
Gwen - But, you have the chance now. I find it hard to believe that this is all for the best.
Muskateer - You never know.
Gwen - What's that supposed to mean?
Muskateer - Nothing. I guess I'm just doing what comes natural. I've never really had any ties to anyplace. I didn't mean to hurt you at all.
Gwen - Perhaps I took too much for granted...
Muskateer - I know that I did.
Gwen - So, where does that leave us?
Muskateer - That's a very good question. I really do love you.
Gwen - You have a funny way of showing it.
Muskateer - Maybe. I just....I don't know, sometimes I feel like...I'm not in your league...like you could do better.
Gwen - There is no one better.
Muskateer - (pause) I have to ask you a very important question.
Gwen - Go ahead.
Muskateer - I'm not sure how to put this, but...I hope you'll forgive me for being a jerk...
Gwen - I'll take it under advisement.
Muskateer - That's a start. Um...Gwen, will you marry me...?
Gwen - Are you serious?
Muskateer - If I wasn't serious, it wouldn't have been so hard to come out with!
Gwen - But what about Florida...?
Muskateer - I told you that I've had some time to think since I came in here. Then, I asked you to get the orange juice so that I could be alone for a few minutes.
Gwen - You haven't answered the question.
Muskateer - Well, we could go there on the honeymoon, but I think we could come up with someplace better...
Gwen - You still haven't answered the question!
Muskateer - Would you consider having a winter place down there?
Gwen - I'm sure we could reach some sort of arrangement.
Muskateer - Oh no...
Gwen - What's that?
Muskateer - What am I going to tell Sikorsky now?
Gwen - What do you mean?
Muskateer - As far as he knows, I'm supposed to be getting that team together. He thinks that I'm going to be the leader. It was all my idea, after all.
Gwen - Like you said, we could always commute.
Muskateer - Commute to Florida?
Gwen - Well, you don't think I'm going to let you go down there yourself. What kind of wife would I be? Somebody has to look after you. 'Trouble' is your middle name.
Muskateer starts chuckling.
Muskateer - Ow! Stop that... Actually, I was considering scrapping the whole idea.
Gwen - Oh really?!
Muskateer - 'Surprise' is my nickname...
Gwen - Well,...if you're willing to give up Florida for me, how can I refuse?
Muskateer - Is that a yes,...?
Gwen - Of course it's a yes. Mr. Harper, I am yours.
Muskateer - Talk about an offer I can't refuse. Come here and say that, Mrs. Harper.
Gwen - With pleasure....
The two embrace in a passionate kiss.
Muskateer - I have to admit, though, another reason I came up with this whole scheme was to have a team of my own back.
Gwen - Well, that was your fault. You gave them up.
Muskateer - Maybe you don't realize just what you have, or really want, until it's gone.
Gwen - About time I got that into that thick skull of yours.
Muskateer - Well, 'hmpf' to you too...
Gwen - Just kidding. Besides, I've noticed that you and Kristen have not been getting along lately. So, I can understand how you feel.
Muskateer - Supes makes a fine chief. I just don't think I make such a good indian anymore.
Gwen - What are we going to do to solve this dilemma?
Muskateer - That can wait. I think we have enough other things to worry about for the time being.
Gwen - Quite. It will take me months just to get all the invitations ready.
Later that night, Denise has returned for a few moments. Spectrum begins to stir and starts mumbling...
Spectrum - But,...I don' wan' any peaches now...
Denise - Jim?!
Spectrum - Oh, God...I'm dead....!
Spectrum's Comments:
Here's the next snippet:
Avengers #73 -"Affairs of the Heart"
Spectrum - Oh, God....I'm dead...!
Denise - You're awake! How do you feel?
Spectrum - I know how a hockey puck feels at the end of a game.
Denise - Well, at least you have your sense of humor still.
Spectrum - You're not going to kill me, are you?
Denise - I've wanted to...
Spectrum - From what I heard, I don't blame you.
Denise - Gwen called me. She explained what happened...
Spectrum - Did she...?
Denise - Most of it... Can I get you anything?
Spectrum - A hug would be awful nice.
She starts to cry. Then reaches over and gently gives him a hug. She then steps back and walks over to the window.
Spectrum - What's the matter?
Denise - Well,...(sniff) from what I understand...you don't remember....what happened...
Spectrum - Not all of it.
Denise - Weelll,...
She turns back to the bed for a moment. Then turns away again.
Denise - ...I do...I had to live every minute of it...
Spectrum - Um, what did he make me do?
Denise - You....I...I don't think I can even get into it right now...(sniff)
Spectrum - I understand...Believe me... that I would never do anything intentionally to hurt you.
Denise - I do believe you, but...
Spectrum - I think this has gone on far enough. When I find him...
Denise - You can't imagine...what I'm feeling inside...(sniff) right now. I've spent most of the...last 4 months hating you...
Spectrum - I imagine you had every right to. It's definitely time to deal with Hexmaster, once and for all. He's caused enough pain and sorrow to last a lifetime.
Denise - Tell me about it.
Spectrum - I wish I knew the words... what I could say to make you feel better, but I don't. I hate to see you like this.
Denise - This whole affair hasn't exactly thrilled me either...I'm sorry. I didn't mean to sound that way... everything has really gotten to me... Those wounds are just going to have to have their chance to heal; I guess... if it's over, maybe they can now...
Spectrum - Denise, I love you very much and I would do anything to help you get over this... If you think that that would help you heal... I wouldn't stand in your way. But, I'd like you to stay more than anything. Together we can work this out.
Denise - I...I don't know...
She turns away again and stares out into the night sky.
Denise - I think I need some time to think things out. I'll be back in the morning.
Spectrum - I imagine I'll still be here.
She manages a small smile at that. Just then, the door opened and a physician walked in.
Doctor - You're awake. That's a very good sign.
Spectrum - That remains to be seen.
Denise - I'll see you in the morning.
Spectrum - Bye.
Doctor - You're very lucky to even be alive right now, mister.
Spectrum - Why don't I feel like it?
Down in the lobby, Denise met a familiar face...
Denise - Diana?! What are you doing here?
Diana - The Avengers called LA first, looking for you. They told me what happened... Come on, you look like you could use a good stiff cup of coffee.
She put her arm around her friend and the two walked out into the night air.
Denise - I'm glad you're here right now...
Diana - Hey, what are friends for anyway?
Later, the two are sitting in a nearly empty coffee shop. Outside, a light drizzle has started to fall.
Denise - I feel like the weather out there. I'm not sure what to do.
Diana - I'm willing to give you all the emotional support you need, but I'm afraid that you're going to have to come up with the answers.
Denise - I understand that. I feel torn in two directions.
Diana - I know what you mean, maybe even more than you know. But that's not important right now. Let me give you a for instance...
Denise - Oh? Like what?
Diana - Well, how's this... You could just run away from all of this and go back to Florida. Forget everything that happened. Just put it behind you and start a whole new life over. You could go to school, become a secretary. Then meet a construction worker, have your 2.2 kids and be happy for the rest of your life...
Denise doesn't say a word.
Diana - That sounds like the easier way to go about it, if you ask me. But like I said, I don't have the answers.
Denise - I think you've given me something else to think about. Thanks.
The next morning....
Denise - Hi. How are you feeling?
Spectrum - Fine. More importantly, how are you feeling?
Denise - I've had plenty to think about. Diana stopped by. She'll be in to say 'hi' later.
Spectrum - I'm looking forward to it.
Denise - Can I get you anything?
Spectrum - Nothing I can think of, at the moment. Maybe about three pizzas. The food here is terrible.
Denise - Well, I'll be honest with you. I think, after all that you've just been through, you deserve that much... I'm scared.
Spectrum - Of me?
Denise - Sort of. I realized last night that I.... really need help to get through this. It's not something I care to do on my own. And yet...I'm finding it difficult to let myself be vulnerable again.
Spectrum - It's strange. I thought that the cruise would have been one of the happiest moments of our lives. It's turned out to be the worst nightmare.
Denise - No doubt about that...
Spectrum - I was going to ask you to marry me...But now....
Denise - What!?!
Spectrum - Seemed like the logical thing to do. I found the perfect woman for me.
A single tear ran down her face.
Denise - I...I don't... Do you really mean that?
Spectrum - With all my heart.
Denise - I...Oh, God,...excuse me for a second...
She walks slowly over to the door and departs.
Spectrum - Hmmmmmm.....It's outta my hands now.
About 5 minutes later, the door opens again. Denise walks back in.
Denise - I'm sorry.
Spectrum - It's quite alright. I guess I kinda caught you off guard. Sorry.
Denise - We both seem to be doing a lot of apologizing here.
Spectrum - Sorry.
Denise - Stop that. I'm going to start crying again.
Spectrum - Okay. I'll behave. I talked to the doctor about getting this penchant for making puns all the time taken out, but you know how it is...
She smiles.
Spectrum - Nice to see you remember how to do that.
Denise - Yeah. So, where were we? Oh yes, you were saying "But now..."
Spectrum - I just said that because you present the image of a person who is unsure. I didn't wish to assume anything.
Denise - So this means you're not going to offer?
Spectrum - I didn't say that. I wasn't sure that you would accept.
Denise - Do you think I would've accepted on the cruise?
Spectrum - I had hoped. But I didn't really know.
Denise - I'm flattered. After all this, things will never be the same, but that doesn't mean....
Spectrum - Doesn't mean what?
Denise - Well, that things couldn't work out. Last night, I remembered something my father told me. (pause) I was learning to roller-skate, I must've bugged my dad for those skates for six months before he finally let me have them, and I couldn't do it. I kept falling down and before long was near tears because I wanted to do it so bad, but couldn't. I gave up and even threw them into the trash. I vowed never to skate again. He took time away from his racing, even missed a major race, just to teach me. It took all day. I was so happy. It was then he taught me that there's no reason to give up on something you really want, just because you can't do it yourself.
Spectrum - I've never been compared to a pair of skates before, but I understand the analogy.
Denise - What I'm trying to say, is that I think that we could really help each other out right now.
Spectrum - I agree completely. What would you say, if I asked you to marry me now?
Denise - I don't know. You'd have to just ask, and find out...
Spectrum - All right. Denise, will you marry me?
At this very inopportune moment, the door burst open. PRIMUS commander Melanie Nelson walked into the room.
Spectrum - This is an unexpected pleasure...
Commander Nelson - This is hardly a social call. Spectrum, you are hereby placed under arrest!
Spectrum's Comments: And the next.
Avengers #74 - "The Trail of Spectrum"
PRIMUS commander Melanie Nelson had just revealed a startling revelation.
Commander Nelson - Spectrum, you are hereby under arrest.
Spectrum - Say what?
Commander Nelson - You heard me, mister. This wing is under PRIMUS security now. There are guards outside, and the grounds are being patrolled. So don't try leaving.
Spectrum - Leave? I haven't even tried getting out of bed yet! This is idiotic.
Commander Nelson - All the better. I don't want this to go any harder than it has to.
Spectrum - How kind...
Denise - What are the charges here anyway?
Commander Nelson - They're impending. I'm just doing my job, ma'am.
Denise - This is ridiculous!
Spectrum - I didn't do anything!
Commander Nelson - I think you have that story all wrong. You've done quite enough.
Denise - Have you talked to the Avengers about this?
Commander Nelson - The order came from the NSC itself. The Avengers have nothing to do with it. Good day.
Spectrum - Moistened bint.
Denise - I don't believe this...
Spectrum - You don't believe this? I didn't think things could get worse. So, do you have an answer...?
Denise - An...? Oh....well, you know how they say things are always darkest before the dawn?
Spectrum - Yes?
Denise - How's this for a little ray of sunshine: Yes, I will...
Spectrum - WA-HOOO!!
Denise - Careful, careful. You're going to hurt yourself.
Spectrum - Yes, Mrs. Sculley. I think I'm going to need a lawyer.
Denise - Don't worry. I'm sure this will all be worked out in the end. Besides, you're not in this alone anymore.
Spectrum - Neither one of us.
Sometime later,....
Diana - So, how'd it go?
Denise - Better than I thought actually, looking back on it.
Diana - That's good to hear. So? Give.
Denise - Well, there's not much to tell. I'm sure you heard the ridiculous charges that PRIMUS has brought against him.
Diana - Yeah, it was on the news. So, where do you two stand?
Denise - Pretty close now. You really gave me a lot to think about that night.
Diana - I had hoped to. Well, I'm glad that this'll all work out. I'm sure that this foolish arrest thing'll be dropped.
Denise - I hope so. I don't wish to be married to a criminal.
Diana - What!?! You're kidding!!
Denise - Yes. He actually asked me to marry him!
Diana - And you sayed 'Yes'?!
Denise - Of course...
Diana - ALL RIGHT!!! It's about time you too finally got together seriously. I've been waiting for this.
The two friends heartily embraced.
Spectrum's Comments:
As would have been revealed in Avengers #75 - "Judgment Day", the one pressing the charges was another Hexmaster Android. Spectrum was cleared of all charges, released from the hospital with no brain damage, and he returns to LA with his fiancé.
That all led to this, the final issue of X-Factor as written by Muskateer. Your basic "we're getting the band back together" kind of issue.
X-Factor #57 - "Out With the New, In With the Old"
Tarantula - Well, that's pretty much the layout of the place.
Morning Star - This mansion is quite impressive, Mr. Lawrence.
Tarantula - Please, call me TJ.
Victrix - We never finished remodeling the north end of the upper level. So, I guess that's pretty much up to you guys now.
Spectrum - I'm sure we'll come up with something.
Tarantula - Well, there's only a few more orders of business before we depart.
Spinnerette and Starbolt both are familiar with the working of the computer system. They can fill you both in on that.
Victrix - For some reason, Powershift decided he didn't want to stay on. However, with Nova, there are five members of X-Factor again.
Tarantula - I think I can leave it up to the rest of you to handle any new members. I expect to be informed regularly of team events, however.
Morning Star - Of course, TJ. Anything else?
Tarantula - That just about covers it. Now, I hate to be a rude host and run, but the Caddigan's are throwing a social party that it simply would not do to miss.
Spectrum - Duty calls then. Have fun, kids. Don't be too late.
As the two interim X-Factor members left, Morning Star and Spectrum were all alone in the new base of operations of X-Factor.
Morning Star - Looks like we're all alone.
Spectrum - Hhmmmm.... Wanna use the time to fool around?
The beautiful heroine pulled her mask off and put her arms around her fiancé].
Denise - What do you have in mind?
Spectrum - Weeeell.....
After a brief flash, Spectrum was gone and James Sculley stood in his place.
Jim - I think we can come up with something.
The two lovers came together and shared a passionate moment's kiss.
"Um, excuse me, but I hope I'm not interrupting anything."
Denise - Who....?!
The surprising interrupter stood nearby wearing a black and gold costume. In his arm he held a golden helmet with a bright red starburst on the front.
Jim - You make a habit out of sneaking up on people, or what?
Nova - Not usually. But since you two were so.... engrossed, I guess you didn't hear me. I'm Nova. Welcome to the team.
The heroes shake hands, as Jim changes back to Spectrum.
Morning Star - Things have certainly changed since we've been gone.
Nova - Hey, tell me about it. It's been wild around here the past few months.
Spectrum - I've had my fill of wild for the rest of the year, personally.
Nova - Since Mr. Insect says you're the new boss, what's our first order of business?
Spectrum - Well,...
Just then, the doorbell rings.
Spectrum - Answer the door?
Outside the front foyer were two moving men with a large crate.
Man - Uh, I'm lookin' fer a Mr. Spectrum.
Nova - That's him.
Spectrum - What can I do for you?
Man - We got a package fer ya. Sign here.
Spectrum - What is it?
Man - Wadda I look like? I'm jus' the deliveryman. Sign here so we can get outta this weird neighborhood.
Spectrum - Here you go.
Morning Star - Who's it from?
Spectrum - I don't know. There's no return address or anything.
Morning Star - Let's move it into the central foyer and find out.
Nova - Allow me.
The young hero hefted the large crate onto one shoulder and walked into the center of the new X-Factor headquarters.
Spectrum - Show-off.
Morning Star - I've never been one for big muscles anyway.
Spectrum - Oh, is it my charming personality then? Or my incredible wit? Or...
Morning Star - Actually, it's your modesty. Come on, maybe it's an early wedding present.
In the central foyer....
Nova - Oh yeah, I heard that you guys are engaged. Congrats.
Morning Star - Thanks.
Spectrum - So.... what the heck is it? It's too big to be a toaster.
Nova - Well, just let me...
As Nova grabbed the lid and started to pull out the nails, suddenly the whole crate exploded into a million shards.
Nova - It must've been a trap. Are you two okay?
Spectrum - Fine. Denise?
Morning Star - Didn't feel a thing...SIMON!!!!
Standing there was none other than the team's very own robot valet. Tiny wood shards floated all about him like snow.
SIMON - They don't make shipping crates like they used to. Greetings, sirs and ma'am.
Later,...
Spectrum - It's five minutes to six. Where is he at?
Spinnerette - I'm sure Lightwarp won't be late. He sounded quite pleased to join the team when I talked to him.
Nova - Man, look at all the people gathered out front. All the networks have crews here.
Spectrum - They obviously know a good story when they hear one.
Morning Star - Well, here he his!!
Morning Star walked up with a man in green, gold and white armor.
Lightwarp - It's been awhile. I hope I'm ready to get back into action full time.
Spectrum - Here comes your first test: a horde of fanatical reporters.
Lightwarp - Couldn't we have started out with something easier, like maybe Dr. Destroyer?
The doors opened and five heroes stepped out into the bright California air. The gathered crowd closed in around the heroes. Spectrum stepped up to the microphone.
Spectrum - Thanks for coming, ladies and germs. A funny thing happened to me on the way here....
At that moment, a purple-gloved elbow jabbed him in the ribs.
Spectrum - Spoilsport. I was going to tell them the one about the priest, the ketchup bottle and....okay, I get the hint. Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce the one and only, new and improved.....X-Factor!!
Just then, the air over the mansion exploded in a fiery burst. The letters X F A C T O R were spelled out in the sky in flame. As everyone oohed and aahed at the sight, Starbolt flew out of the sky and landed with the team.
Spectrum - Show-off.
Down in the sewers underneath the city of New York, a former X-Factor member slogged through the dank, smelly waters.
Photon - It's gotta be around here somewhere. Don't know why, but I gotta find the portal.
He continued on for a ways, then came to a dead end.
Photon - Here it is. But something's different here. There's some sort of ward protectin' the thing.
Photon's form shimmered for a moment and he stepped forward through the magical barricade.
Photon - That was easier than I hoped it would be.
He stepped into the small chamber that stood beyond. He stared around at the place were he first became Photon. The Guardian of Astergor, he was called. The new bearer of the armor. It became tied to his very being. Neal Washington and Photon were one.
Photon - Man, this don't make any sense. What am I doin' here anyway? I must be goin' crazy or... hello, what do we have here?
The medallion that Photon wore around his neck began to glow with an eerie reddish light. Then the portal began to open.
Photon - What the hell...?! The rubies...! This shouldn't be happening, man!
But happening it was. The portal opened completely and there was silence. The medallion continued to glow, however. Photon hesitated for a moment, but felt compelled to enter the gate. He had wondered for years what was on the other side. He stepped through the gate and was gone. The portal closed behind him.
Spectrum's Comments: And that was that. What happened from there? You'll have to ask Muskateer about that, as I have no clue! But that does bring us to the final issue here. This is Strike Force #1, the team that Muskateer founded on his own. They were to be based in Florida. It is now July 1987.
Strike Force #1 - "New Beginnings"
It is morning at the townhouse of the Enchantress. Gathered in the kitchen we find the mistress of the house and her guest cleaning up after the morning meal.
Sandy - That was really good, Ms. Kingston.
Gwen - Please, just call me Gwen. It's not going to be Ms. Kingston much longer anyway.
Sandy - I really appreciate everything you've done for me, Gwen.
Gwen - Think nothing of it. I've enjoyed having the company. You're a delightful young woman. Besides you're doing me a service while Monica and Thomas are staying with me for the summer. You and Monica are almost the same age.
Sandy - We get along really good.
Gwen - I've noticed.
Sandy - I can't wait to see the new base... When are we going?
Gwen - Patience, my dear, patience. We'll go there in good time.
Sandy - But aren't you excited? Getting in on the ground floor of a whole new team. You can't imagine how happy I was when Musky asked me!
Gwen - I'll admit there is a sense of anticipation, but I find the prospect of marriage more exciting. You can't imagine how happy I was when Steven asked me!
Sandy - I envy you.
Gwen - I'm sure that someday you'll find that special someone for you.
Sandy - Perhaps.
Gwen - If you'll excuse me, I've got a few tasks to complete before Steven arrives.
Sandy - Certainly.
Gwen departs for the study. Sandy plops down on the couch in the front room and turns the TV on. The minutes pass until there is a knock on the front door. Sandy opens the door and lets Steven in.
Steven - Mornin', kiddo! How are you today?
Sandy - Fine. A little excited about today.
Steven - I have to admit that I have a few butterflies myself. Where's Gwen?
Sandy - She's in the study. Ah--- Could I ask you a question?
Steven - Sure what's on your mind?
Sandy - Not here...
She looks around for a moment.
Sandy - Follow me.
Shortly in the pantry.
Steven - What's going on?
Sandy - What I want to ask you is very important. And personal. I'll understand if you say no.
Steven - What is it already?!
Sandy - Would you be my father?
Spectrum's Comments:
Sandy was the name given to Firehawk, who was a copy of Firestar made by the Crystal. Once it was destroyed, she was freed from its influence. Thus she had no family and really wanted to belong and have a family.
And that takes care of the end of the old stuff. I hope you enjoyed this walk down our memory lane.