Synopsis
Black Canary intercepts a brawl in an alleyway but finds the instigator a formidable foe who seems unaffected by her Sonic Cry. Superman hears her use it and rushes to the scene only to be knocked flying by the assailant who then makes his exit.
Later the league meet to discuss who this unknown villain is – their only clue some mathematical notes Superman managed to grab during the brawl. They deduce these are the work of a particular scientist named Joel Cochin, but when Green Arrow, Black Canary and Firestorm pay him a visit they find themselves under attack by Cochin, as the villain Paragon.
Becoming his prisoners, the three league members learn who the scientist is a genius who has been ostracised for his intelligence and plans to use his machine to wipe out all those with a an inferior mind. He also uses the powers of those near him, hence why he was able to take down Black Canary and Superman.
But Canary had managed to set off her communicator before being captured and the rest of the JLA arrive. At first the fight goes badly for them as he uses Superman strength for his own purposes but Canary realises what he is doing and moves everyone away. She is finally able to knock him out with a simple karate kick.