Story by Darksuperboy

Written by TheHeroGuy (Posted here with his permission)


Earth
August 8th
Time
AOC Headquarters

Cameras flashed madly, as a certain reporter stood in front of a tall, light colored building, facing the camera crew with a microphone in hand.

"This is G Gordon Godfrey, reporting outside of the Alien Oversight Committee headquarters, where a crowd has formed. Why you ask? Well, the infamous Justice League is once again breaking the rules."

The enthusiastic reporter's snarling voice then continued, not mentioning the fact that the Justice League immediately notified the AOC as soon as possible.

"This time, not only did they travel off planet, but also brought back another alien to Earth!"

Just as he said this, on television screens everywhere, a picture of Starfire was shown next to him.

Godfrey then went on, with a dark smile.

"Well, at least the Alien Oversight Committee is speaking with the alien right now to assess its threat to humanity..."

Within the dark confines of the building and corridors, one room stood out in particular. From the outside of this room was a dark figure in the shadows, carefully observing through the one way glass window. Inside this room were four other people, and a long, glass table. Two were sitting on one end of the table, and the other two on one end. The air was definitely unsettling, almost awkward, but it was only because of the two men in suits sitting on one end. On the other end sat Black Canary, and the cause of it all, Starfire. Now the two men in suits were shuffling through files and folders.

The dark figure watching from the outside was Batman, and then a door is opened. The door was then opened by Nightwing, as he entered, and stood next to Batman. The air was thick with a burning silence, as no words were shared. Batman did not even move when Nightwing entered the room, and instead continued staring at the four people inside the other room. Nightwing was the first to break the painful silence.

"How is she doing?"

The silence was then beginning to sink in once more, and Batman finally responded.

"Good. Under the circumstances..."

Inside the room, an agent closes some of the files, and then coughs, facing Starfire.

"So... Miss Starfire. Why do you believe you should be allowed to stay here on Earth?"

Starfire's face remained calmed, even with the fact that she was used to people like these men, and their civil, yet underhanded form of interrogation.

"I believe I should be allowed to stay here on Earth because i was invited."
Just then, the other agent responded with a cynical smile.

"That invitation was not issued by any government on this planet, so forgive us if we don't take that as a legitimate reason."

It was at that moment that Nightwing could tell that the Batman's hidden stern gaze had flickered in his direction, even after all the years he had been with him, he learned how to sense it underneath his dark cowl.

Starfire then began to explain to the slimy agents.

"I was in need of assistance, and one of your people offered it. Is that not something that is encouraged on your world?"

This had made one of the agents lean back in his chair, gritting his teeth at the legitimate, and well thought out response. Nightwing then began to think inside his mind.

"The AOC though mainly charged with protecting earth through physical means such as defensive technology and monitoring alien activity. It seems like its also become the focal point of Earth's diplomatic views towards other aliens races..."

He then looked in the direction of one agent, who was trying to weigh how much of a threat the alien girl posed, even after the Justice League claimed to be minimal. After all, the girl possessed no alien technology, coming with literally just the clothes on her back. Not to mention the public's reaction against the political backlash Earth might receive galaxy wide if any of this aliens species found out that a member of their race requested help and the human race didn't give it.

The agent then scanned through reports given to him by the League and the Green Lanterns, which had shown that the Tamarian Empire was a big player in the galaxy, both politically and militarily. Nightwing was trying to detect what the agent might be thinking from the reports, as he had caught a quick glimpse at the reports. He was most likely thinking that it might not be worth stirring up trouble by refusing help to one of Tamaran's citizens. Who knows, it would definitely be useful having them as Earth's ally too.

Black Canary then sensed the perfect opportunity to speak, as she leaned forward.

"Gentlemen, we are now merely going over the same questions that have been asked again over the last 3 days. Is there anything else you need to ask before we can hear a final decision?"

Just then, the agents began whisper to themselves, and Batman squinted his eyes.

The agent on the left looked back at his partner for a moment their eyes locked, as if speaking some unheard conversation. The agent sitting next to him then shook his head. The agent on the right then sighed with deep concern, pulled out a folder, and slid it across the table. The agent then spoke with a hint of anger.

"Inside, you will find your temporary pass for refugee status. The AOC will constantly be monitoring your whereabouts and activities whilst you are on Earth."

Black Canary then corrected him.

"General whereabouts. They will only be able to know her general whereabouts for the next 3 months."

The Justice League had maintained a strong standing on the locations of its members to general area when on duty to that of the city they were in. Access to more details on only in the event of an emergency, and the Justice League's members were the only ones with sensors to do it, so the committee couldn't really complain.

One of the agent's face then curled at knowing he had been corrected, and rolled his eyes in defeat.

"Of course. Your general whereabouts for the next 3 months. Starfire will also have to submit to at least one meeting a month to ascertain how well she is claiming to earth life."

His annoyed tone of voice then became very serious.

"But any action determined by the AOC to be unlawful of an endangerment to any person will result in your immediate and indefinite incarceration in a maximum security facility. Understood?"

Black Canary then quickly responded for Starfire.

"Perfectly. May we go now?"

Suddenly, the agent to their right waved them off. Just as the two women were getting up to leave, the other agent leaned back in his chair held up by a single leg, and spoke, making them pause.

"The same will go for those who have vouched for you, and any actions you take."

Rather than be looking at Starfire, he looked to Black Canary with a menacing face.

"So best be sure to behave..."

She then nodded, and both women left with no words, all the time wearing an irritated glare at the obvious threat that was the agent.

The two then exited the room, walked out to corridor where they were met by Batman and Nightwing.

Black Canary was first to speak, facing Batman.

"I suppose that went as best as hoped for."

Surprisingly, the next one to speak was Starfire, with a curious and anxious voice.

"So what is to become of me now?"

Batman then answered her question firmly.

"The League will provide you with accommodation."

It seemed that just the way he said that made Starfire feel unwelcome, with an air of hostility, making her head droop down. Nightwing saw this and quickly spoke to her.

"Don't worry Star, we'll make sure its somewhere nice."

Her head then perked up at hearing Nightwing's voice. Batman, on the other hand, stood solidly and looked dead at his former partner.

"The league will provide all the resources necessary for your stay here, Starfire."

Nightwing then stared back at Batman, while Black Canary gave a slight and unnecessary cough, motioning to Starfire's attention, whose gaze had been fixed on the two males. She then broke the awkward silence.

"Well, lets get to finding you those quarters, while these two continue their conversation."

She then motioned to Starfire, and leads her away from them. As they're walking away, Starfire looked back at two men, and levitated herself off of the ground slightly to keep watching the males over Black Canary, until the two of them turned a corner. Starfire then asked Canary a question that had been burning inside her mind.

"What is the happening between Nightwing and the Batman? Was I misinformed that those two are like father and son?"

They then stepped into a nearby elevator, and once they were inside, Canary pushed a button and the elevator began to descend. She then let out a deep sigh, and looked towards the ground.

"No, you're right. They're just going though a bit of trouble at the moment."

At the sound of this, Starfire's eyes also looked down sadly.

"Caused by me."

Canary then faced her, and put her hand on Starfire's shoulder, wanting to sincerely reassure her with a warm smile.

"Batman is not the bat you should be worried about when it comes to you and Nightwing. But honestly, those two have been heading towards this for a long time now. You just happened to be caught in the middle."

Just then, the elevator stopped, and the two women stepped out onto the underground hangar where zeta tubes were at one end, and between them about 20 heavily armed armored soldiers that were former UN forces, were now assigned to the AOC to protect the facility. The two calmly continued to walk showing no sign of altered mood to the soldiers presence. Starfire then spoke.

"I am most grateful for the kindness you have shown me over the last few day Miss..."

Canary's eyes then made Starfire catch what she shouldn't say.

"Canary, and any shelter you will provide, I am most thankful for."

Canary still hadn't quite figured out that part yet that any League headquarters would be seen. That and the League was slowly letting in more powerful aliens in, when the public weren't comfortable with the idea lately. Nightwing definitely couldn't take responsibility for her since he was no longer on the team or a League member, not to mention it would tick Barbara off to high heaven, and that wouldn't help things. The younger teams' houses weren't really an option either, and she couldn't really picture the next generation of heroes being able to handle the situation seriously yet. Would Diana allow any alien women on the island? The heroine was so deep in concentration, that she nearly bumped into the access port for the zeta tube. Before she did, she caught herself and then began to type into the the computer. Starfire then spoke up.

"Would it be possible for me to have access to more of the mustard i was served with yesterday? I believe the portions given to me where...unsatisfactory."

Canary found this very unexpected, thinking that the girl had one of the weirdest eating habits she'd ever seen before. She then smiled at the revelation of a redheaded teen with superpowers and a strange taste in food. The zeta tube then began to open, making the computer come alive.

"Recognise Black Canary: One-Three. Starfire: A One-Four."

Canary then grinned and faced Starfire.

"Just so happens I know the perfect place."

Earth
Month
12:36 PST
Palo Alto

The sky was calm with clear, blue skies and a few clouds hovering above the sleepy town. But one small house stood out in particular. Although it appeared normal from the outside, with a very average porch and lawn. Within this house, however, was a not so average girl in the kitchen. Artemis was attending to her daily routine of activities, which included, in this case, sharpening her sword on the kitchen counter. As she kept sharpening it, she began to ponder on the last time she used the kitchen for anything else besides preparing her weapons.

Suddenly, Artemis heard a knock at the door, making her pause what she was doing, silently sharpened the sword quickly one last time. She then sheathed the sword and made her way to the door, carefully trying to stay out of sight of the windows. Artemis reached the door, took a quick peer through the eye hole, and recognised the familiar face. Just outside of her door was Black Canary in her civilian clothes. Artemis then let out a deep sigh, and opened the door.

"Dinah."

Canary then replied softly.

"Artemis."

Suddenly there was an elongated silence between the two heroines, but was quickly broken.

"May I come in?"

Artemis then replied, walking back into the house, leaving the door open for Dinah to follow.

"Sure. Come on in."

As Dinah closed the door behind her, she noticed that the table was littered with Chinese take-out boxes. Hoping to break a painful stillness of the air, she spoke.

"I see you've taken up Bart's style of cleaning..."

Dinah almost compared Bart to another speedster but it was still too soon. She then looked up in her direction, wanting to see her reaction. If Artemis had heard her, she showed no sign of it, as she placed her sword underneath the living room table and attached it her secret stockpile. She then muttered with a flat tone.

"Been busy with missions and school."

Artemis then sat down in a single chair facing Dinah, as she took the sofa. Dinah then replied, wanting to sound caring.

"You used to handle that easily enough in the past..."

Artemis then quickly cut off her off, making tensions slowly rise.

"That was then this is now."
Her stern voice reminded Dinah of that troubled teenage girl she had tried to help recover from a mental exercise gone wrong, only this time the subject that helped her out of that situation was causing this one, and could tell from the look in the young woman's eyes that today was not the time for a counselling session. At this moment, Dinah didn't want to be a counsellor, she wanted to be a friend, and friends sometimes have to be mean to be kind.

"Artemis, were pulling you off the active mission roster."

Just as she said this, the girl shot straight up from chair.

"You can't do that! I won't let you!"

Dinah was then reminded of a familiar occurrence form the past, and listened as Artemis continued.

"I'm needed there!"

Dinah quickly replied, hoping to get to the point, all the while staying calm in her seat.

"What is needed is that you take a break from the field. You've logged more hours this week than some of your team have in a month, and its beginning to show."

Artemis' eyes then narrowed at the question of her performance amongst the team.

"And I don't just mean on missions either."

Once again, Artemis' eyes flinched. She knew her grades had been dropping, and there was no doubt Nightwing had been hacking her school systems again. Artemis then reminded herself not to forget that bit of information during their next sparring match. At this point, the familiar sound of paws could be heard rapidly hitting the tiled surface of the kitchen, and Artemis heard this, making her turn her head slightly. A small, male pit bull dog rounded the corner of the kitchen counter and stopped to look at the two humans. Dinah could see a drastic drop in the dog's excitement when it looked at her, the creature obviously expecting someone else.

But, never the less, the young dog scampered over to smell the new guest. She hadn't really approved of the young couple getting a dog, thinking that they weren't ready for that level of from a relationship standpoint, those two were meant to be together, but more from the responsibility side. Dinah could still remember the awkward telephone call of Wally explaining he had forgotten Valentine's Day again, asking for help with the understandably upset archer. But it seemed the pup had a calming effect on the younger blonde, as Dinah stroked the dog behind the ear. Using her peripheral vision, she could see Artemis sigh, and sit back down again.

"Hey Nelson. You miss me?"

The dog then barked as if to show agreement, let himself be stroked a few more times, then padded back to sit near Artemis, placing his head in her lap while she rubbed gently. Dinah immediately returned to their conversation.

"Its not that we don't think you're capable, it's just that the League and the team think you need a break, that's all.

Not looking up from her and her ex-partner's pet, Artemis replied weakly.

"I know."

Dinah then continued.

"But if you think you're up to another mission we'd like to give you a look at one that's a little less... exerting."

At the former archer's raised eyebrow, Dinah sent a quick message on her phone, and a moment later the doorbell rang. The mature blonde then went to it, and opened the door, letting someone step inside Artemis' house. This immediately got Nelson's complete attention, as the new visitor entered, it bounded over to the stranger. Perhaps a little too excitedly, and stumbled over his own legs, sliding across the floor, bumping into the new person. This person having seen this strange creature practically leap at her direction, now raised a glowing green fist, and to the strange specimen only to have it quickly caught by Dinah.

"Let's not incinerate your new roommate's pet shall we?"

Nelson unknowingly having seen more stranger things than any of his kind, had simply looked up from his curious position, and looked back at the girl with the glowing hand. The dog turned his head slightly, then decided to file this under the same subject like that of the girl who smelt of food, and could change shape, or that boy who sometimes looked like another dog and would play with him or that really big shiny ball Master once showed him. He instead lost interest, since this person wasn't giving him any attention, so he rolled over and walked off, looking for a quiet place to nap. Dinah then announced her next mission with confidence.

"Artemis, this is Starfire. She'll be staying with you for a while."

Earth
Month
1:27 PST
Watchtower

Green Arrow and Captain Marvel were on monitor duty when suddenly a zeta tube activated, followed by the computer's monotone words.

"Recognise: Black Canary, One-Three."

As Black Canary entered the Watchtower, Green Arrow watched her walk over to him, all the time smiling. She then wrapped her arms around his neck, and looked into his eyes. Obviously confused by this show of affection, both Green Arrow and Captain Marvel weren't sure of what to do. Captain Marvel especially not sure where to look, started staring at the monitoring screens as if they were the most interesting thing in the universe. Green Arrow then broke the silence with his gentle voice.

"How did it..."

The archer was very interested in his former protégée's new living arrangements, but was interrupted by Dinah kissing him, lasting a good ten seconds before they separated.

"You're gonna be paying for all her food, utility and shopping expenses."

She then leaned in for another kiss, but stopped. She was waiting for Green Arrow's response.

"Ok."

The two then continued to kiss again, more committed this time since the first time. Captain Marvel then leaned into the monitor a bit more, trying to figure out what to do since he was still on duty. Dinah pushed Green Arrow back to break again.

"You're also buying them a car to travel in."

She loosened the firm hand that was keeping the two apart, so Green Arrow approached to continue but stops.

"Ok."

Dinah then removed the obstructing arm between them and the two kissed passionately. Captain Marvel's face was practically touching the screen, trying to focus. Dinah then broke again, pulled on his quiver's strap around Green Arrow's chest, and started pulling him towards the zeta tube. Green Arrow was grinning from ear to ear the entire time. While Dinah was walking backwards whilst pulling him in, looking seductively. She then stopped outside the zeta beam's scanning range.

"And you're buying the flat underneath Artemis' so she can have her own space."

"Yeah, sure."

His eyes closed as he stepped forward to try and come in for another kiss, but was pushed back with his eyes still closed. He was then woken by the computer.

"Recognise: Black Canary, One-Three."

Green Arrow's eyes opened immediately to see that the zeta beam had been activated. He looked at her with sleepy eyes, as she was standing before the zeta beams, and spoke to him.

"You can't leave. You're on monitor duty, but thanks..."

Dinah then blew a kiss as she disappeared, while he look dumbfounded and slack jawed until he remembered to come back to reality by the sound of Captain Marvel's laughing.

Earth
August 9th
9:15 AM PST
Palo Alto

The clock hanging in the living room slowly kept on quietly ticking, never stopping. Then, from out of the doorway was a freshly showered and towelled Artemis, who re-entered her bedroom, and opened her the closet to select today's outfit. Instead of giving Starfire lessons today, she decided it to take her to get new clothes, after all, the alien had only been provided with basic clothes by the AOC during her interview process. But, they had been left behind as soon as she left the building, making it mandatory that they get something less...extraterrestrial.

Artemis then shuffled through her clothes until she found an extra set for the alien, and quickly left the closet, all the time her eyes avoiding a strong box trunk within. She then quickly got changed, and once she was finished, she walked out to the living room and sofa to find it empty. No Starfire. Artemis had let her stay the night, but still had remains of bedding and a sleeping dog on its back, snoring and drooling away. Artemis then let out a frustrated groan, already thinking that her day hadn't even started and it was already going horribly.

"Great. I've lost my alien..."

She then heard a loud sound, followed by the clinking of pots from around corner, which made Artemis head towards the kitchen.

"Staaaaarfire!"

To her surprise she found every cupboard was opened, and food had been scattered all over the floor. But perhaps the biggest surprise was that her newly met alien roommate was in her underwear. Starfire then looked up to Artemis with a cheery smile.

"Good morning friend Artemis!"

Starfire then flew over to hug her, and all the time Artemis stood frozen solid, which of course the alien girl didn't notice. She continued, as she kept hugging Artemis.

"I hope that you have slept well!"

Suddenly Artemis found the perfect pause in their conversation, which snapped her out of the mind freeze.

"Uh, yeah Starfire. Thank you. Look, Starfire. I was just wondering, where are your clothes?"

Starfire then began her long story as she flew around the kitchen.

"Oh, I could not sleep with the thought of the first day of seeing a new world, so when it was first light, I washed my clothes and put them outside to dry. I could have sworn another one of your dogs was being walked by a man who did not seem to focus on his task, and walked straight into one of those poles that stand at all your earth streets corners. I then entered the house after saying hello, and as I waited for you to wake, another man knocked at your door bearing packages, which I took. Then he proceeded to trip down the stairs as he left."

The alien girl then leaned in more quizative, while Artemis leaned back, concerned of what she might do. This was definitely not the situation she had signed up for.

"Are all men on this planet clumsy, or is it this specific region of them?"

Artemis then replied, while wishing that she had read more of the briefings Canary had brought about Tamarian society.

"Um, I'll look into it, until then..."

She then pushed the extra set of clothes to Starfire in order to cover her exposed body.

"I've got some clothes for you to wear. But first, I think its best if you have a shower, which is down the hall, and on your left."

Starfire then looked at the clothes with great curiosity, and smiled.

"Thank you friend! I shall do just as you have instructed me, and try them on immediately!"

The girl then floated away, looked at clothes, and called back to Artemis.

"I have also prepared your morning meal with the most delicious foods I could find!"

Artemis then looked back down corridor after alien, and is clouded by pure confusion. The archer then walked over to the kitchen counter to survey breakfast.

Having spent years watching the speedster eat, Artemis had been used to odd combinations of food, but none compared to the one she was looking down at. Before her was a plate of pickles, pickled onions, and what looked like a raw radish that had been mashed. Unsure of what was in the glass next to the plate, Artemis hesitantly sniffed the content of the drink. In the glass was mustard, and as the hero tried to devise a way of getting rid of this food disaster without offending her alien friend, the doorbell rang. Grateful for the perfect timing, the blonde quickly exited the food blast zone, and headed towards the door, nudging Nelson to the side. She opened the door slightly, only to see her former teammate in front of her.

"Zatanna?"

She in turn replied with a smile.

"Artemis."

It was then that the archer wanted to know the reason for her visit.

"What are you..."

Zatanna then cut off and explained

"Dinah thought you might need a hand with your new guest."

Artemis then spoke in return.
"I think I'm capable of looking after myself and an alien girl."

Suddenly, a strange series of singing traveled from the hall connected to the living room. Starfire must've have thought she was singing beautifully by tamaranian standards, but instead sounded more like a whaling cat to everyone within ear shot. Unfortunately, the only one enjoying the spectacle was Nelson, who started howling along. The dark haired girl then smiled as she looked to Artemis, whose blonde head dropped in defeat, letting the magical girl enter.

The magician waved a hand at the hall from which the alien song was resonating from.

"Kcolb eht neris gons."

As she was about to stop, Zatanna sat down on the sofa, and nelson nudged her leg.

"Eivg mih a enob."

A bone appeared from thin air, making Nelson bark at first, but then started to chew at it by her feet. In a cheerful manner, she began to speak like nothing strange had happened.

"So how are you, Artemis?"

Artemis then replied quickly

"Fine, how's Broadway?"

This made Zatanna uneasy, and replied sharply.

"Artemis, please. You know its New York and..."

The magician then saw immense stress in the archer's eyes, and decided not to tease for the moment.

"It's fine. So what are the plans for your redheaded bombshell, who I hear has taken a shine to our boy in black and blue..."

This managed to capture a smile from the girl, who then visibly relaxed from the stress of the morning so far. Just as Artemis was about to respond, Nelson's head shot up from his chewed bone, and bounded towards the door again just as the bell rang again. Artemis then got up, and answered it again, this time seeing another disguised teammate in her human form.

"M'gann?"

M'gann in turn was holding her arm shyly.

"Canary thought you could use a hand with your new guest."

Artemis then raised an eyebrow, and spoke sarcastically.

"Reeally?"
She then opened the door wider to give M'gann a view of Zatanna, who was sitting on the sofa.

"Because that's what Zatanna's here to do..."

The Martian's eyes widened with shock, and Artemis could tell that they were trying to have a psychic conversation without her. With a snap of Zatanna's fingers in front of the Martian which seemed to do the trick of stopping obvious mental talk, as the alien girl's face went red.

"Do come in then."

The embarrassed girl then stepped in, while Artemis closed the door behind her.

"M'gann, we were about to discuss today's plans, but first, could you do me a favor and sort out my kitchen? It needs a bit of...Martian touch."

Now the green girl nodded, and floated to the kitchen area, while Nelson, who in turn was loving all the extra people, followed after her. Artemis then mentioned one other thing.

"And also, could you wipe my neighbour's mind, including the postman's?"

She then spotted Zatanna with a look of confusion.

"Don't ask..."

She hadn't even taken one step away from the door, when bell rang again, while the young dog zoomed back into the room excited to see the next guest.

"And why not?"

Artemis then opened the door to find Barbara Gordon standing outside.

"Artemis, Canary sent me to..."

She didn't get to finish her sentence, as she was yanked inside by the archer, who didn't expect nor want a list of the visitors. In total, there was a bat and a magician on the sofa, a martian in the kitchen, and a Tamaranian in the shower. Now ready to snap because of the stress her surprise occupants had brought, she slammed the door, assembling all the guests.

"Right. Should I be expecting anyone else since my porch seems to be the new entrance to the Hall of Justice? What about Raquel, Karen, Cassandra, or maybe even Wonder Woman?!"

Zatanna then spoke in response.

"Raquel has Amistad."

Miss Martian then followed after her.

"Karen has school."

Barbara concluded with a smile.

"Cassie has school, and as for Wonder woman...no promises."

Artemis was now fuming, and all she wanted to do was to be left alone with her thoughts. Her thoughts were of him, and they were ruining it by trying to make her forget by doing things without him. But as she looked from face to face, looking for that one more thing to push her over the edge and throw them out, she couldn't.

As she looked around to all the faces, but instead Artemis could see nothing but love and concern for her, along with a hint of pain on each of their faces. She then noticed comfort in just seeing their faces of others, and with a long heavy sigh she let her anger go. At that moment, Starfire walked in, gladly clothed.

"Artemis, who are all of these people?"

She was now looking at all the strangers who were looking back at her, the redhead in particular with a raised eyebrow as if trying to figure out a puzzle Starfire did not know of. Just then a slight cough brought the woman back to the attention of the archer.

"Starfire, these are my, and now your friends. We're gonna help you with an old earth ritual called 'girls' day out'."

Suddenly Starfire tilted her head, while the other women whooped with joy and clapped, then giving Artemis a hug.

Earth
August 9th
10:37 AM PDT
San Francisco

The clear streets of San Francisco were bustling with activity, as the endless heat was beating on the asphalt streets. On one particular street, 5 strong minded, strong willed, and physically strong beautiful women strolled through together in a line. They were determined, and their mission was to shop until they dropped. Men turned their heads as they walked by, while the young women lowered their sunglasses to look at them, flashing a smile. Everyone else, however, just got out of their way to show respect when they saw them coming, from the sun hat-wearing brunette on the left, to the green shaded, long haired-redhead on the right. Starfire's eyes shined a brilliant green when the sun hit it at the right angle.

The young women then roamed from store to store, and in every single one, Starfire tried to buy very revealing items. The girls, especially Barbara, declined her startling taste, and moved onto shoes, purses, jewelry, and makeup for the young alien, all the time having a blast. They then stopped to introduce Starfire to the local foods for lunch, bringing mixed feelings when the girls had to pay for a hot dog vendor's entire supply of mustard bottles that she had gratefully taken without paying.

Now Starfire was drinking the yellow liquid through a straw, while the girls continued with their shopping. This time, though, everyone was trying on different items, even Artemis, who picked out a lovely jade green backless dress that matched her skin tone wonderfully. Though she had no idea of what she was going to use it for, the group then went through the markets for some bargain hunting. When the ladies charms failed to work on store owners with a x chromosome, Starfire seemed to be an expert on haggling them. But not even superhero girls can shop forever, and the group soon found themselves outside a little coffee shop, with their chairs surrounded by the days purchases.

Earth
August 9th
16:53 PM PDT
San Francisco

The group of girls all leaned back on chairs, resting in the sun's rays. Zatanna was the first to break the tired silence, not even opening her eyes as she spoke..

"Good day..."

Barbara then spoke.

"Agreed."

Artemis then revealed who their benefactor was after the entire shopping spree.

"And it was all provided by Queen Industries."

This made the girls giggle, and continued to listen to the archer.

"But I'm guessing we should head back now..."

Zatanna's eyes then sprung open at the sound of this, and she sat up.

"But the night's just begun! We've gotta introduce Starfire to more of our friends: Margaritas, and the Rumba!"

Her eyes then closed, as she lay still in her chair, swaying her arms and body seductively to unheard music, making all of the girls smile. Artemis then spoke.

"No, Zatanna. Some of us still have to make revisions for finals, and I've only just caught up after the whole fake death thing."

Zatanna just continued to dance in her chair, but blew a raspberry at Artemis, who rolled her eyes.

"Plus, we have to get all these bags back to the cars."

The magician then opened one eye, and smiled.

"Told you we should've brought at least one man..."

Barbara then reminded them of something very important.

We don't need men. We're superheroes!"

Zatanna then grinned deviously, and looked in Barb's direction.

"Bet you wouldn't have complained if we brought Bird Boy along..."

The original team then burst out laughing, as Barbara silently turned a deep shade of red. Zatanna then looked at Miss Martian and spoke.

"Or maybe Connor for M'gann..."

M'gann immediately began blushing, making Barbara laugh.

"Either way, I get something good to look at and carry my things..."

Suddenly, a stern silence came over the group, making Zatanna open her eyes before her lips quivered and all of the girls began laughing again. This carried on a little longer, until Starfire asked who they were talking about.

"Oh honey, you'll soon see that being a hero sometimes has a few unseen perks."

The teammates then smiled softly while looking down at their glasses.

Barbara then turned to Miss Martian.

"How are you and Connor doing? From what I've seen, you two are getting closer again."

M'gann then stared into the ice in her fruit juice glass.

"We're ok, I mean... I mean I think he knows I've changed and I have."

Her eyes then rose to the group to show sincerity, and sighed.

"But he doesn't say anything. I think he still needs more time."

She then smirked at idea that just entered her mind: playful revenge.

"What about you Babs? How are you and Dick doing?"

Barbara, who was drinking from her glass, then flickered her eyes for a second to Starfire, and placed the glass on the table.

"Dick and I are fine. He has his life, and I have mine. He can make his own choices in the end, because I know where we stand."

She then caught Zatanna's smiling face, as if knowing a secret. She then spoke in her mind, just so Zatanna could hear.

''Your turn.''

Then she spoke so that the rest of the group could hear.

"What about you, magical girl? You found that magical guy yet?"

Zatanna then grinned, and stretched her arms.

"Noooo. Its the single life for me ladies. I want a single show kind of life at the moment... but doesn't mean I can't have some after parties sometimes!"
The entire group then bursted out giggling. Starfire then innocently asked a dangerous questions that they had all been trying so hard to avoid.

"What about you Artemis? Do have mate at this time?"

The other girls immediately froze. The silent Artemis, who was stirring coffee with a spoon, stopped in mid stir.

The three girls eyes were then darting at each other, trying to figure out what to do. M'gann then decided to give it a shot, while Zatanna's and Barbara's minds were drawn completely blank.

"Starfire...Artemis had... there was a..."

The girl's struggling attempt at trying to say something was stopped by Artemis' hand motioning to stop. The blonde took a deep breath, and raised her head to Starfire's curious gaze.

"No, Starfire. I don't have anyone for the moment."

Sensing the tone in the young woman's voice, the alien girl remained silent.

"I did have someone a while ago, but there was an accident...and he died."

The group's heads bowed at the hurtful memories remembering that day. The funeral, the grave, empty spaces that should have been full. They expected Artemis to stop there, but to their surprise she continued, with a lone tear running down her cheek, but held great confidence.

"His name was Wally. He was annoying, ate like a pig and was sometimes too smart for his own good, kind, funny, dashing...and I loved every bit about him. He will always have a place in my heart."

Starfire then sensed the immense honesty and trust that the young women had just shown to her, and reached her hand over the table to make contact with Artemis', who accepted it without hesitation.

"I am truly sorry for your loss, Artemis."

Zatanna then stood up, and raised her glass.

"To Wally West. Incredibly flirtatious...yet loyal."

Barbara followed, doing the same, raising their glass.

"Overconfident, but caring."

M'gann did the same.

"Who never complained about my cooking...To Wally West."

The entire group then stood up and cheered.

"To Wally!"

Their glasses then clinked together, and the girls sat down to drink. A nearby trolley then coasted down a hillside, until a slight rumble came from the ground. Artemis then smiled, and decided to take her mind off of the sad memory.

"Maybe just one Rumba in a fancy club, but what should I wear?"

Zatanna then beamed with excitement, and replied with a smile.

"Why do you think we got you that dress?"

The magician then finished her drink, placed the glass on table. For some weird reason, even after the trolley had left, the rumbling sound continued. In fact, it had increased, and it was now moving the table, growing stronger with every second. Barbara was the first to figure out what was happening, as she stood up.

"Earthquake."

Earth
August 9th
17:02 PM PDT
San Francisco

From one of the television screens hanging above a nearby electronics store, a GBS news report cut the daily broadcast. A woman then appeared in front of the newsroom to deliver this important message. The group of girls walked over, and looked at each other, nodding.

"This is Iris Allen, interrupting the usual broadcast to bring you these breaking news. The city of San Francisco is currently experiencing its worst earthquake of the year, so far measuring 6.75 on the Richter scale. The epicenter was approximately 25 miles northeast of the city, and within the usual lines of the San Andréa's fault. The state governor has already activated all state emergency precautions as well as the National Guard to assist the emergency services. Not only that, but he has also called upon the Justice League to provide any assistance that they can."

Iris was then handed a note, but already knew what it said. Her nephew may be gone, but his one true love was still near the city, and as a member of the Justice League she would do anything to help. She smiled as she looked at note, confirming guess.

"This just in. The League has said it will send more help if required, but League members are already at the scene."

Earth
August 9th
17:10 PM PDT
San Francisco

The five girls stared out onto the city from their vantage point inside Zatanna's magical sphere. The magician had almost instantly created a glamour force field around the heroines, and levitating them all above the building out of sight in order to prevent them from being hit by any falling debris. She also teleported their shopping bags away so not to impede their view. The girls then saw various ripples of destruction, with pieces of metal and shrapnel fanning out among the city as if the buildings were on top of the ocean, rising and falling.

A great wave of air suddenly swept through the unstable landscape, roaring with heavy winds. The heroines hadn't been idle standing above the destruction, as Miss Martian had levitated falling glass from broken windows, preventing the glass from falling on the panicked pedestrians outside. It had been too dangerous to do anything else whilst the earthquake was still active, but now it had stopped, making the group quickly spring into action. Barbara then turned to Zatanna.

"Zatanna, if you'd please."

The magician nodded, and began her spell.

"Brag su rof elttab!"

In a brilliant flash of light, the team transformed into their alter egos. Now ready to help, Zatanna lowered the group onto the ground waiting for further instructions. Batgirl immediately looked at her wrist display, reading through the feed, and deactivated it.

"The earthquake took out local zeta tubes, and League estimates we have 15 minutes until more support can arrive from the Watchtower. The National Guard will take about an hour."

She then turned to the rest of the team.

"Our priority are the public, whose lives are in imminent danger. Make sure to sort through local emergency services when you can."

Barbara sharply turned to the two alien girls.

"Starfire, help Miss Martian. Do not do anything unless she says so. Miss Martian, go to the Golden Gate bridge, you are most likely going to find a big mess which will be cut off from support services for the moment."

Miss Martian replied with determination

"Right."

She then nodded to Starfire.

"Let's go."

As both flew off, Batgirl walked to the magician, and gave her further instructions..

"Zatanna, teleport Tigress and myself to San Francisco PD to coordinate League support when it arrives, and assist officers with law enforcement. Then go to the nearest hospital to start healing people to make space for more that arrive."

Zatanna understood, and her eye's eyes began to glow, while she spoke.

"Tropelet su ot erehw ew era dedeen."

She then clapped her hands and they all disappeared.

Earth
August 9th
17:22 PM PDT
Golden Gate Bridge

Miss Martian and Starfire approached the bridge, which was in sheer chaos. She then spotted multiple vehicles that had collided against each other, some hanging over edge. Miss Martian then began to talk to Starfire telepathically.

"'You get the cars to safety, I'll sort out the people."

Starfire nodded, and grabbed the front of a Gotham Academy school bus that was on the verge of falling off the edge. With her superhuman strength she raised it back onto the bridge, while the school kids looked at her through the windows in awe. The alien girl then moved onto the next car that was dangling off the edge. Miss Martian suddenly flew high above bridge, flooding her mind with the terrified thoughts of various panicking people trapped in cars, not knowing what to do. M'gann then focused her mind, placing both hands to her temple and connected with each one of the minds on the bridge. Suddenly, the people on the bridge all looked towards her, as she spoke in their minds.

''Ladies and gentlemen, please remain calm. The Justice League is here to help, so please remain in your cars. Exits will be opened, and any obstructions will be removed for all of you to move off the bridge. Once you are cleared out, emergency services will be able to arrive and help those of you who are injured."

The Martian then noted a massive drop in panicking minds, so she didn't hesitate to continue helping them. She then dropped lower, only to see a great deal of cars placed back onto the road. She smiled at the sight of Starfire, continuing on with the task wearing a warm smile every time she placed a car back onto the tarmac. Pulling herself back to the matter at hand, Miss Martian began separating two cars that had collided, and were now on top of another. She did note cars were now moving slowly off of the bridge and was relieved by the sound of distant sirens fast approaching.

Earth
August 9th
17:30 PM PDT
San Francisco Police Department Headquarters

It had been their 9th arrival, as Tigress and Batgirl had unexpectedly appeared before the SFPD having appeared in a big ball of light a few minutes ago. But once the overall shock had worn off and things had been explained, the two heroines' arrival had been appreciated. The chief of police watched carefully as Batgirl provided communication support between each of the city's services and the League members that were now arriving, and sent them to the most important areas, keeping himself free to talk with other officers. The chief had eyed the more unknown female hero, Tigress with suspicion at first, but once he saw the women take down a looter that had escaped an officer's grasp, only to be caught by her, he had no complaints. In fact, he enjoyed the growing number of silent criminals occupying the detention cells that came with her presence.

Tigress walked among the cell doors, keeping an eye out for any troublemakers within them. The officers that had been required to guard these prisoners, were now free to support their partners with more important matters now that the once rowdy criminals were now dealing with a member of the Justice League, who was taking her duty very seriously. After reaching the head of the cell halls, Tigress turned and proceeded to walk back to the entrance, when suddenly, its doors bursted open for a fraction of a second and she could see no one had entered before two solid shapes appear in front of her. Before her was the Flash and the young Kid Flash, who spoke with a quick smile.

"What's up T? How's it hanging? You seeing what happened out there? Pretty crazy if you ask me, but hey, that's what we're here for, right?"

She smiled and rolled her eyes at Bart, but became confused as to why they were here in the police department, instead of outside in the city. Though it wouldn't take long for these two speedsters very long to get there. Once she spotted the older hero's head slightly bow, she realised that although she might not be able to see his eyes, she could bet she knew what her boyfriend's uncle was doing. Wally's love may not be there, but his family's sure was.

"I'm fine, thanks."

She then held out her arms to show them no signs of injury.
"Now go."

The Flash then raised his head, stood still as if assessing the situation, and bolted outside. Bart grinned at her, and waved.

"Bye, T! Gotta go!"

With that, he was gone as well, leaving Artemis by herself. She sighed, but soon smiled as a struggling criminal was brought in by two officers.

Earth
August 9th
19:37 PM PDT
San Francisco General Hospital

Zatanna lowered her hands once again after finishing casting another spell, with her eyes closed and her breathing heavy from the strain her body was under, but knew of the situation and what needed to be done. As the now healed civilians were wheeled out of the medical ward and the next batch of critically injured were wheeled in, she began growing tired. A nearby doctor beside her had noticed the magician's growing fatigue for awhile now and had decided that enough was enough.

"You need to take a break. You've done enough already, and far more than we could've done alone."

The doctor then placed a hand on the magician's shoulder, but the female Leaguer shrugged it off.

"I can do this."

She straightened herself back up again, raised her hands to the group of injured, and cast her spell with intense determination.

"Laeh meht."

Suddenly, a bright glow came over the injured bodies, until it slowly faded away, revealing healed wounds on everyone. Once the spell ended, Zatanna felt faint, as the room began to spin her legs gave way, and she began the fall but was quickly caught by the now proven right doctor.

"Nurse, get me a stretcher and 10 ml of stimulants. Send the next set of patients to Operating Room 1."

A large amount of movement then broke out at the doctor's commands, when a deep voice is heard.

"No. Fate with intervene."

All of a sudden, a flash of circular light lifted from the floor, revealing it to be Doctor Fate. The doctor stared when he noticed that Zatanna's body was covered in a glowing, golden aura. Her body then floated out of grasp, and onto the bed that had just been wheeled in for her. Zatanna tossed in her sleep, as if trying to wake up. Doctor Fate then leaned over the bed, and gently placed a gloved hand on her forehead.

"Rest, my daughter."

His hand then emitted a powerful glow, while Zatanna struggled to wake, until she slowly stopped. Fate then turned to the doctor as Zatanna was wheeled out into a waiting room.

"We shall continue, doctor."

The doctor nodded sharply, and motioned for the next set of patients.

Earth
August 9th
23:32 PM PDT
San Francisco GBS Newsroom

"This is Iris Allen, with the latest report on the disaster in San Francisco. After 6 hours from the first quake, and no after shock for the last 5 hours, scientists have concluded that the approximately 20 moderate earthquakes in San Francisco, are over. Emergency services are still continuing the search for any possible survivors trapped underneath several collapsed building, but most sources believe it is unlikely anymore will be found. Now is the time at which the city will begin to rebuild itself, as well as its citizens. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who have lost loved ones in this most tragic event, and we wish you the best. Our thanks go out to the brave men and women of the emergency services..."

The screen behind her then showed video feeds of nurses bandaging the injured, police carrying children to safety, and firemen helping a woman out of an overturned vehicle.

"For the lives they saved today, and will continue to save in their service to the people. We are also very appreciative for the help the Justice League has offered in supporting the services, and saving many lives as well."

A video is then shown of the Flash and Kid Flash moving rubble, so that a nearby ambulance can drive by.

"But we would also like to make a personal thank you to the latest visitor to our world: Starfire."

Another short video is shown of Starfire carrying the school bus back onto bridge.

"Some of us shunned her, while some of us did not want her on our world, and some of us still don't. Yet she was still human, and she showed that by saving the lives of countless people. For that, we extend our gratitude, and gladly welcome Starfire to Earth."

Earth
August 9th
23:35 PM UTC
Apokolips

The image of Starfire then froze, revealing Vandal Savage watching the monitor while on the throne of War World. He then spoke with an eery, deep voice.

"It does not matter if this...one alien is welcomed by earth. His plan will continue, and this unpredictable event hasn't changed anything. Earth will still become our stronghold and soon he will rule it. Then, he will rule the galaxy..."

Just outside the War world, an alien fleet surrounded it, prepared to strike.


Unfortunately TheHeroGuy is unable to continue writing with us so there will be a new writer introduced with Episode 6. I will continue writing every other episode, with Episode 5 coming this Saturday.

On another note, I will pick my other stories back up after June 13th. It is my last day of finals and I will have all the time in the world to write and get my stories in order. I apologize for the delays, but you know how school is.