Balanced

Roy Harper/ Red Arrow

Prologue:

July 4

"Guess they're right about you all, you're not ready," Roy said walking towards the door. The boys just watched his retreating figure as he left, but I couldn't stand that.

"Roy," I called running after him, "just wait a second." I grabbed his arm not wanting him to go. We'd known each other for years; considering our mentors were practically engaged (I really wish they would already). "Don't do this; we just have to be patient-"

"Patience isn't going to get us into the League, Reine. They don't respect us that's all there is to it. Did Black Canary tell you anything?"

"No, but-"

"There's your proof. I don't know about you, but I'm out."

He jerked his arm away, but I grabbed it again. "I have no idea what's gotten into you or why you're acting like such an ass, Roy, but seriously, grow up! Just because you didn't get your way doesn't meant anything!" I growled. He jerked it away again.

This time, I didn't do anything. I only glared at him. Roy had no right to insult Black Canary, she was my caretaker and mentor. "Do what you want, but don't come crying to me when you find out I'm right," he said not looking back.

The sad thing about this is that I knew Roy said that on purpose. He just knew how to tick me off. "You're a real ass," I growled as he left.

I flopped on my bed with my still wet, tangled black hair in a mess. After the whole Project Cadmus thing and all, Dinah Lance (Black Canary) grounded me when we got back to Star City. And, to be quite honest, I'm bitter about the entire ordeal. Speak of the bird, Dinah walked in and gave me a sympathetic look. "Reine, you know I'm punishing you for your own good," she said sitting on the bed.

"Che, yea…" I said looking away. She frowned knowing I was acting immature.

"Reine Lance, you listen to me right now. You're older than all of those boys and yet you rushed into the danger without thinking!"

"Well we worked well as a team! If I'm going to be working with those guys some day, then we should work as a team now!" I said sitting up.

She sighed; "I know that, but you know I worry…" here we go. Dinah's my aunt; she has all the reason to worry… since dear mummy and daddy abandoned me when they found out about my Canary Cry. "But, that's also why I have to let you join the Team." I stared at her, was she serious? "But, would you willing to live at Mount Justice for now?"

I contemplated the idea. Mount Justice was an old base for the Justice League, until it was compromised and they had to move to the Hall of Justice. Though, I still wondered why the base would be there. "But, isn't Mount Justice compromised?" I asked.

"If the baddies knew it was being occupied again, I don't think they'll attack it, plus there isn't much there," she said, "So, what do you think?"

I looked up at the ceiling. It would mean I'd be on my own from time to time since the boys might not be staying. I'd probably be the only girl unless there are others out there that might get assigned. Then again, I wouldn't have to deal with the whole parenting thing… or worry about doing chores. Hell, how could I say "no"? Dinah couldn't yell at me and I could have fun! And, I could get away from Star City. Being here, it made me think of Roy.

"I'll go," I said looking at Dinah with a smile, "it sounds fun."

"That's my girl," she smiled, "Hey, your hair's wet. Go dry it before you go to bed." I nodded and stood up to head for the bathroom.

"Yes, ma'am," I laughed as I walked out of the room. I could live without Roy Harper in my life for a bit.