The trio of sidekicks, Robin, Aqualad, and Kid Flash are now immobilized and housed in cloning pods, and their intrusion has been resolved. Desmond is currently in his office, anxiously awaiting the start of his meeting with his patrons, the Light, the clandestine organization financing Project Cadmus.
With his foot tapping restlessly, Desmond glared at the seven unlit screens, his irritation evident; he had only recently informed them of his need for a discussion, yet he was never known for his patience.
Fortunately, the room soon plunged into darkness, while each of the seven screens illuminated, presenting Desmond with the shadows of those he was addressing, their features obscured by a blinding light that rendered physical recognition impossible.
Not that he was concerned about their identities; as long as the funding for his experiments continued, he was satisfied. Although he could certainly do without the incessant micromanagement and the unnecessary theatrics employed by his employers during their communications. Nevertheless, he knew that beggars can't be choosers.
"Dr. Desmond. Do you require an audience with the Light?" one of the figures on the screens inquired, their voice as distorted as their image.
"Yes. I apologize for bothering you at this late hour…" Desmond replied in a sycophantic tone.
"Simply provide us with your report." Another member of the Light insisted, impatience evident.
"Certainly. Earlier today, we experienced a minor fire here at Project Cadmus. The cause of the incident remains unknown, but it appears to have attracted some… unwanted attention. Three sidekicks—Robin, Kid Flash, and Aqualad—breached security. They located and freed Project Kr, Superboy. Naturally, the clone is under our telepathic control as instructed, and consequently, he turned against his would-be rescuers."
"At present, I have the three secured in cloning pods, and to my knowledge, I don't believe the League is aware of their presence here. So, uh, what would you like me to do?" Desmond concluded somewhat awkwardly, uncertain of his next steps, as he recognized that he was a scientist and an academic, and this particular scenario was outside his expertise.
Time stretched before another distorted voice said bluntly, "Clone them."
"These Substitutes will serve the light, and only the light." The obvious Leader of the Light simply added.
Desmond raised a brow and asked nervously, "And what of the originals?"
"Dispose of them, we have no need for such in our plans." The leader continued uncaringly. "Leave nothing behind."