But on the surface, Homelander wore a touched smile.
"Thank you, my comrades."
"It's because I know Earth has all of you that I have the courage to face this alone."
"And I firmly believe humanity has a brilliant future ahead."
He pointed to the devastated Metropolis.
"This place needs you more."
"People need Batman to restore order and The Flash to bring them hope."
Homelander walked up to Bruce and gently placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Bruce, you're smarter than I am. You know how to build a system, how to get this broken world running again. If you come with me to Apokolips and die there, Earth will soon fall back into chaos."
Then he looked at Mera and Phillips.
"Your people need you to lead them. Atlantis needs rebuilding, and Themyscira needs to recover. You're their queen and general. Your duty is here."
Homelander stepped back, his gaze sweeping over everyone.
"Leave Darkseid's destruction to me."
"And as for Earth's rebirth... I'm counting on all of you."
Bruce looked at Homelander for a long moment. Then he took a deep breath and nodded solemnly.
"I understand. Leave Earth to us. I'll build the federation you want to see."
"Good."
Homelander smiled in satisfaction and turned, ready to give his audience a perfect view of him walking toward danger.
"No—!!"
But Harley Quinn was trembling all over, tears streaking through her heavy eye makeup.
She looked like a little girl about to lose her entire world.
She threw herself at Homelander, wrapped both arms tightly around his waist, and pressed herself against his chest.
"What are you doing? You goddamn bastard, what are you doing?!"
"What you just said... that was all an act, right?!"
"That speech was amazing. Really, amazing! You deserve the Oscar for Best