Guest: Thank you so much, I'm so glad you liked it. And I know, I actually had them planned to get together earlier but it felt too rushed. I really do love Calypso and Kaldur (Calydur? Kalpso? I'm not good with ship names) together and I want their relationship to be realistic and as natural as possible.
Ariaaa: Aw, you're too kind! I've had Calypso in the works for a while, literally when I first watched Young Justice, but whenever I wrote about her it seemed too Mary Sue-ish or not realistic at all. Those types of fanfics aren't fun to read anyway. And don't worry, they'll kiss sooner or later c;
Lili: I'm so glad you love it and I hope you enjoy this chapter!
Thank you all for your kind words, they truly mean a lot to me. I hope you all are enjoying your holidays and that you like this chapter.
πΆβπππ‘ππ πππ - Targets
"I knew from the first time, I'd stay for a long time 'cause,
I like me better when-
I like me better when I'm with you."
HAPPY HARBOR
SEPTEMBER 6, 09:15 EDT
"What do you mean her transfer didn't go through?"
"I'm sorry, Miss McCabe, but whoever you spoke to didn't realize how many of Calypso's credits cannot transfer over. Michigan's curriculum is different from-"
"I spoke to Happy Harbor's school board and they were the ones that cleared her for an easy transfer." Mari cut her off as she crossed her arms. "They had her paperwork almost a month in advance so she could attend this year."
The lady in front of us, Charlotte, sighed and pushed up her glasses. "I understand your frustration ma'am, but I didn't even receive her existing credits let alone her other paperwork until last week."
Mari chuckled dryly. "Your school's poor organizational skills should not be keeping my daughter from attending this school."
Charlotte clasped her hands together. "I'm sorry, but until everything is settled, I cannot enroll Calypso into our school by tomorrow." My heart sunk into my stomach as I looked at Mari. I could tell she was annoyed and upset and wanted to cuss the older lady and the school board out. "I really am sorry, but I don't want to run the risk of her repeating a year because we didn't do things right."
I slouched into my seat. I felt so bad that Mari went through all that work just for them to say I can't start tomorrow with M'gann and Superboy. I didn't know there was so much stuff involved with going to a different school. And there's no way I was going to repeat a year of high school.
"You all had more than enough time to get that sorted. This is ridiculous."
"I'm truly sorry but there's nothing I can do. It's going to take more time for me to get her enrolled-"
The door opened and a man with shoulder length brown hair and blue eyes popped his head in. "Sorry for the interruption, miss Char." he stepped into the room and I noticed he was holding several folders. He smiled at Mari and I. "Lucas Carr, I'm one of the teachers here." He held out his hand to me than Mari and we shook it politely.
I glanced at Mari quickly, wondering why he interrupted us so suddenly. But Mari's reaction confused me: normally, if someone interrupted her in a situation like this, she'd be upset that someone was trying to insert themselves into her, well, our business. Instead, she seemed relieved to see the teacher. Did they know each other?
"I couldn't help but overhear what was going on but give me some time, I can try my best to get Calypso ready for our school."
I smiled, my eyes lighting up. "Really?"
Charlotte's eyes widened. "Carr-"
He waved off her concern and picked up a few of my documents from her desk. "Don't worry Char, I've got it covered."
"This isn't your department Carr. You should be preparing for your students tomorrow-"
"Oh, I am." He gestured to me. "I'm helping my student prepare. My class is incredibly tough after all."
The older woman clenched her teeth, glaring at the teacher. "Lucas-"
He gave a small wink to me and handing Mari a slip of paper. "You'll be hearing from me soon. It shouldn't take me long to get things settled. I promise Calypso will be starting this week."
"Thank you." Mari said and I beamed, thanking him as well. It's so nice of him to help us when he doesn't have to.
"My pleasure." With that, he left the room, closing the door behind him. I looked at Charlotte who was fuming. She aggressively shoved her glasses back up her nose, almost poking herself in the eye. I had to bite back my giggle.
Mari stood and I followed her actions. "Well, thank you for all of your hard work ma'am." I smirked at her sarcastic words. "You'll be seeing a lot of me if my daughter has any more problems."
Charlotte clicked her tongue. "Of course, miss McCabe."
As soon as we left the school and headed back to the Cave, I questioned her. "Do you know that teacher?"
"Kind of. He's like a junior member of the League, so I'm sure he helped your friends get enrolled without any problems. I should've given him your paperwork first and save myself this headache."
I frowned. "I'm sorry you had to go through all this trouble..."
"Shush Caly, this is the best thing for you right now. And don't feel sorry for their piss poor planning."
"Piss poor?" I repeated in confusion and raised my eyebrow. I knew what those words meant separately, but together? That's an expression people use?
She laughed. "It basically means half-ass, kiddo. It's a military saying." She must've got that from Luke.
I nodded but I didn't understand fully. "Okay? That's a weird thing to say."
Mari rolled her eyes. "Whatever, Caly. Anyway, before I let you go, we've got one last stop to make."
I smiled, glad I got to spend more time with her. "Where to?"
"You'll see."
DETROIT
SEPTEMBER 6, 09:49 EDT
I found myself following Mari into a department store at Fairlane. I didn't mind this mall but after mine and M'gann's trip to the Mall of America, it seemed so small.
A few of the workers cheerfully greeted us and asked if we needed any assistance. Mari shook her head, already knowing where she's going. I was a little nervous for what she had planned.
She stopped in the women's section and tapped her chin in thought. As she eyed the racks of clothes, I thought why she would want clothes from Macy's of all places. She's one of the most incredible fashion designers I know and this store wasn't really her taste.
"Hold these." She pulled a few pair of jeans off the rack then some shirts and handed them to me.
"Are you trying them on?"
She looked at me as if I was crazy. "Me? Oh no, no, no. They're for you."
"Me?" My eyes widened as I looked to their size. The pants were way too small and I'm sure I couldn't fit the shirts. Did she really forget my sizes? "Mari, I-"
She smiled softly and led me to the dressing rooms. "Trust me, Caly." She told the worker how many items we had and she happily led me to a room on the end. "I'll be outside if you need me!" Mari shouted as I locked the door.
I gulped as I looked at the pile of clothes in my hands. I gently hung them on the rack and slipped off my shoes, then my sweatpants and sweater.
The first outfit Mari had together was a soft navy sweater with khaki high waisted skinny jeans. Size extra large and sixteen.
I sighed, preparing myself for disappointment. I know these aren't going to fit no matter how hard I try. But I trusted Mari. She knows how I feel about my weight and she has never embarrassed me about it.
Every year when we went shopping for uniforms, she would buy the perfect size without a fuss. She never made me feel bad about it and did her best to help me loose weight in the healthiest way possible.
I took the pants off the hanger and noticed how my hands were shaking. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. Trust Mari, I had to remind myself. Don't worry.
I unbuttoned the jeans and stepped my foot through the first leg, then the other. As I began to pull them up, my eyes widened in shock. They slipped on without any issue and rested snug on my waist.
I spun around to the mirror, to make sure I wasn't imagining things. I turned, placing my hands on my stomach. Had I really lost that much weight? How didn't I notice?
As I leaned closer in the mirror, I studied my arms, tummy, chin, and legs. I'm not sure how much weight I lost but my chin and legs were slimmer. My stomach was more lean and I could feel muscle instead of fat.
"M-Mari!" I exclaimed happily as I slipped the sweater over my head with ease. My smile widened as I caught my reflection again. I looked different, it was weird but I liked it.
She was outside the door as soon as I opened it and her smile was as wide as mine. She quickly turned me to the mirror and adjusted the jeans and untucked the sweater. "There we go. Do you like it?"
"Mari, I-" I felt the tears well up in my eyes. I wasn't sure how to feel. For so long I focused on my weight and appearance and now, without even meaning to, I changed.
She hugged me tightly and rubbed my back. "When you joined the team, you've been doing a lot more than what you're used to. You've been eating healthier, working out, and it's paid off."
"I guess I wasn't trying hard enough before..."
Mari pulled away and placed her hands on my shoulders. She lowered herself so we were face to face. "Calypso, no. It's not that at all. What you're doing now is... more than what we did. You push yourself and I'm so proud. You know me, as long as you're happy and healthy, you could be the size of an oompa loompa for all I care but I know this matters to you, so it matters to me."
I sniffled, wiping away the tears. Her words meant so much to me and made my heart swell. "Thank you."
She shook her head and turned me to the mirror again. "No, this is all you Caly. You did this on your own."
I smiled brightly. She's right, I did this on my own, not even realizing it. I guess I didn't notice how focused I was on the team that I pushed away one of my biggest insecurities. Normally, after missions, I would change into my baggy sweatpants and shirt so I didn't pay attention to it as much as I did. I know I have my team, my friends, to thank as well - it never bothered them and they never once made fun of me for it.
I felt a little silly for getting so excited and happy about losing a lot of weight. It wasn't like I won the lottery or got straight A's, but this made me feel more comfortable in my own skin. It made me happier.
"Are you ready to try on more?" Mari held up a long sleeve black collared shirt and light blue jeans.
I nodded eagerly. "Neh, neh, neh!"
MOUNT JUSTICE
SEPTEMBER 7, 06:30 EDT
Today would've been my first day of school but mister Carr couldn't get my schedule finalized. But he promised I would be starting by the end of the week.
I even got to pick a few of my classes, unfortunately band was full so there goes my goal of wanting to learn the piano. I chose culinary instead so I think it'll be fun.
I'm not sure if all of my classes will be with M'gann and Superboy but I hope they are. Having both of them with me would make me more comfortable.
"Good morning." I greeted the Martian. She was cooking a quick breakfast that consisted of scrambled eggs, bacon, and pancakes. Superboy was sitting at the counter, drinking a glass of orange juice.
She smiled. "Good morning, Caly!" she beamed, waving with the spatula. Superboy gave me a small nod. "Did you get all of your stuff fixed?"
"No, not yet but I should be with you guys soon."
"You better be. I'm so excited to be going to my very first Earth school!" she giggled, floating the plates of food over to the counter.
Superboy took a bite out of a piece of bacon. "What so special about it?"
M'gann levitated the syrup and butter out of the fridge and sat them in front of us. "They look like so much fun! So many things happen like prom, picture day, after school clubs, especially cheerleading."
I giggled at her enthusiasm, but I didn't want to burst her bubble. "Can't forget football games and watching the band play."
"Ooo, you're right! See, there's a lot to look forward to."
Superboy shrugged. "If you say so." He finished the last of his juice and stood up. "I'm gonna go work on my bike."
M'gann frowned. "But you didn't finish you breakfast. It's the most important meal of the day."
As soon as he smile disappeared, he scarfed down the rest of his food and pushed away his clean plate. The Martain smiled as her cheeks turned pink. "Thank you for... breakfast."
She sighed dreamily at the clone, resting her hand on her chin. "You're welcome."
It was adorable to watch them. I wonder if Superboy knew how M'gann felt towards him, since he didn't show much emotion. He's incredibly smart, but I doubt he knew much about crushes or teenage hormones...
I shook my head and tried to think of something else. I hope M'gann wasn't listening to my thoughts, or else this would be really weird.
"Good morning Calypso, M'gann." At the sound of his voice, I turned my head and smiled. Kaldur strolled into the kitchen with Red Tornado and Martian Manhunter behind him. They greeted us as well and complimented M'gann's cooking that left a wonderful smell.
Kaldur joined the seat next to me as M'gann and her uncle began talking about how the school system on Earth differs from the one on Mars.
I made the Atlantean a small plate of pancakes and passed him the syrup. "Here, you need to eat too."
He chuckled. "Thank you, Calypso. Are you excited to start school soon?"
"Hmm, yes and no. It's a new school so I'm a little excited but also really nervous."
He poured a very healthy amount of syrup on his pancakes and took a bite. "Well, if it helps to ease your nerves, I am positive everything will be fine. Happy Harbor is very safe and if anything happens-"
I giggled. "It's not my safety I'm worried about Kal, it's... everything else - my grades, new peers, teachers. I want everything to go well."
"Calypso," he turned to me and held my hand. "Do not stress, everything will be okay. If you need help with schoolwork I will be more than happy to help you. If any of your new classmates or teachers give you a problem, I will do my best to help as well."
Kaldur gently squeezed my hand and smiled. His words calmed me and made me realize that I shouldn't worry so much about what will or won't happen. And if something does happen, I have Kaldur on my side.
"Thank you, Kal. You always know what to say."
"Reeeady for school?" M'gann chirped as she floated over to Superboy. "I made our lunches!"
"The first day of the scholastic season carries great cultural resonance." Martian Manhunter spoke and even though I know he's speaking English, I didn't understand most of the words. But by the way M'gann smiled, I assume it was something kind. "We want to wish you both well."
'Basically translate to the first day of school is important no matter what planet you're on.' M'gann explains, looking at me out of the corner of her eye.
'Kamsa.'
Superboy frowned. "Guess it's not a Kyrptonian thing."
"You may wish to change," Kaldur said as he gestured to their clothes, "before you depart."
M'gann clasped her hands together happily. "Oh! I spent hours choosing this outfit!" Her normal uniform morphed into a cute pink skirt, white top, and pink short sleeved jacket. She twirled around, showing off the outfit. "Whaddya think? Can M'gann M'orzz pass as an Earth girl now?"
Kaldur and I exchanged worried looks. I tried to think of a way to tell her without offending her that she couldn't show up to school... looking like herself. "Well..."
"Just kidding! Meet Megan Morse!" I giggled at her name as the color of her skin changed from green to Caucasian. I was in awe at how incredible her powers were - still the coolest person I know. She twirled around and gave a small curtsy. She turned to Superboy. "What's your new name?"
His eyebrows furrowed. "My what?"
I almost jumped out of my skin and stumbled into Kaldur as Martian Manhunter changed his appearance and clothing. "I chose the name John Jones for myself and suggested John Smith for Red Tornado. You could be a John too."
Superboy crossed his arms. "Pass."
"You don't look like a John, anyway." I added and Kaldur nodded in agreement.
"Conner's always been my favorite name." M'gann suggested as she rested her hands on his shoulder. The clone shrugged and I guessed he liked it better than John.
"A last name will also be required." The Atlantean pointed out.
A sly grin appeared on Martian Manhunter's face. "Perhaps Kent." I wasn't sure why he looked so amused.
"Oh!" M'gann suddenly realized. "In memory of Doctor Fate - the late Kent Nelson." Not the first name I would've come up with but it's sweet.
"Of course."
"Okay, sure." Superboy shrugged. "Guess it'll be an honor or somethin.'"
M'gann grinned. "Well, Conner Kent, time to change your shirt!" Conner frowned as he touched the symbol on his chest. "You don't want to reveal your identity."
He didn't look too happy about it but took off his shirt and turned it inside out. Leaving him shirtless. In front of M'gann. "Will this work?" He seemed to be oblivious to how he made her feel, but it was still adorable.
The Martian's cheeks turned red as she exhaled happily. "Works for me."
Conner slipped the shirt back over his head as he M'gann began to head out. "Wait, shouldn't I be Conner Nelson?"
"They grow up so fast."
"Jinja? I start tomorrow?" I exclaimed excitedly as I bounced back and forth on my heels. Kaldur glanced at me and smiled when he saw how happy I was.
Mari chuckled. "Yes, I just got off the phone with Carr. And you won't be repeating a year. Carr made sure to have as many credits transfer over as possible. You may have to take extra classes next semester, but I said you'd be fine with it."
I sighed in relief and allowed my shoulders to relax. I didn't realize I was so stressed about possibly repeating a year. "I don't mind, anything is better than staying in high school another year."
"I assumed as much. Anyway, I've gotta go but I'll call you in the morning." I could hear voices in the background in a language I didn't recognize. Where is she?
I knew she wasn't going to tell me but I decided to ask. "Going somewhere with Luke?" I carefully questioned.
She hesitated. "No... I've got some business to take care of."
"Are you starting up your fashion again?"
"Other business."
"Oh." I looked at Kaldur as an idea popped into my head - all of us working with Mari? I'm not sure if that would be a disaster or not. "Do you need any help? The team-"
"No." She immediately cut me off, her voice curt. I frowned and realized she was keeping something else from me. "I'll talk to you soon."
I chewed on my bottom lip, annoyed that she still wasn't talking to me. I held my tongue, keeping my emotions back. "Be safe." I chose to say instead.
"You too." She hung up and I slipped my phone back into my pocket.
I'm not angry anymore about her keeping secrets - well, maybe a little bit - I'm more upset than anything. She held me back from growing as a hero, like not going on actual missions and fighting villains like Kal, Wally and Robin have, even though she trained me to be a mini Vixen. And now she's hiding a lot from me, basically kicking me out of our home to stay at the Cave because of my safety-
"Calypso." Kaldur's hands were on my shoulders, eyes locked with mine. I didn't have to say anything, he already knew there was something wrong. Is he a mind reader too?
I didn't realize I was crying until I felt something wet slide down my cheeks. Am I really that frustrated?
He brushed away the tears with his thumb as his eyes softened. "It is alright, Caly. It is not healthy to keep emotions bottled up."
"I know..." I sniffled and looked down my shoes. I felt embarrassed to be crying over something like this.
Kaldur cupped my face and gently lifted my chin so our eyes met again. "Whatever is wrong, you can tell me. I want to help you. Seeing you upset... it makes me upset as well."
I couldn't stop myself from smiling at his words. "Kamsa Kal." He stroked my cheek once more, before removing his hands. I took a deep breath. "Remember what I said about Mari forcing me to live here because of my safety?" He nodded. "I think there's more that she's hiding from me, but she won't tell me."
"Does she normally keep secrets from you?"
"Not really, but I think I deserve to know if she forced me to move because of it. And anytime I try to talk to her, she changes the subject. I just want to know why she won't tell me..."
"Caly, she loves you, there is no doubt about it. There must be a good reason for her continuing to hide things from you."
"I trust her but I'm worried." I admitted. "I want to help, but I don't know how..."
The Atlantean was silent for a few moments and rubbed his chin in thought. "I know it is hard, but try not to worry. If she needs help she has not only us, but the League as well. It is best to think positive."
I nodded. He's right and his words eased the uneasy pit in my stomach. There was something going on that she's hiding from me but I have to think positive. "Geungjeongjeog in saeng-gag." I remember repeating that in my head with M'gann while we were in Biayla.
"And no matter what, this team is here for you." He stepped closer and reached for my hands. I could feel my heart beat pounding loudly in my chest as our fingers intertwined together. "I am here for you."
I couldn't help but feel thankful for having someone like Kaldur in my life. He reminded me of Zoe but less blunt. He's always so kind and respectful and level-headed and said what I needed to hear in the nicest way.
"Kaldur..." I wanted to thank him, tell him how much I appreciated him and his words, how handsome he looks right now - but when I looked into his beautiful green eyes, I was speechless, yet again. "I-"
A loud beep sprug us apart as I could feel my cheeks warm. A familiar voice came through the computer's system. "It's me. I may... possibly, be in over my head." I recognized it as Red Arrow, who sounded exhausted.
As Kaldur answered and asked what happened, he typed away on the holographic computer. He glanced at me and gave me a questioning look as if to say, 'Would you like to join me?' and I nodded happily. "Virago and I will be there shortly." I beamed, glad I get to spend more time with Kaldur, even though it's a mission... but it's better than nothing.
"Virago? Look, I know she's apart of your team and all-"
Kaldur quickly cut him off. "Vira has proven to be an incredible member of the team." I felt myself blush again. "And she has fought against Lamia before." At the sound of her name, I felt angry. I don't even know what she's done yet, but I'm ready to put an end to it.
The archer sighed. Guess he needs to start thinking positive too. "I guess three is better than one. Red Arrow out."
As much as I wanted to be annoyed with him, I could see where he's coming from. I don't have nearly as much experience fighting baddies like they do. The scariest group of people I fought with Mari were a group of robbers that had fire and ice powers. Super cool, but scary at the same time.
But being with the team, I've fought Mister Twister, Lamia, Amazo, Chesire, Keres, Clayface, and more. And sparring with everyone helped too. Without my team, I don't think I would be as good of a fighter as I was with Mari training me.
"Where is he?"
"Taipei, Taiwan." Kaldur replied. "This will be my first time traveling there."
"Me too. I've only ever been to Korea but I don't really remember it. What's going on?"
He explained the Peace Treaty that was happening between South and North Rhelasia and Lex Luthor showed up to help settle it. It reminded me of the problems between South and North Korea.
Then Chesire and Lamia showed up to try and assassinate the two leaders. Authorities caught the two but they broke out thanks to Sportsmaster. Red Arrow tried to take them down but that didn't go too well, so he called the Cave for backup.
Kaldur instructed me to wear my civilian clothes over my uniform so I slipped on one of my hoodies. Unfortunately, I couldn't fit my bΕ staff without it being obvious. I tightened my totem around my wrist and followed Kaldur through the Zeta tubes.
After he typed in our destination, he eyed my outfit. I looked down to my clothes, wondering what was wrong. Was I over or under dressed? Was he having second thoughts of me coming along?
Kaldur stepped closer and zipped up my jacket. My breath caught in my throat as his hands traveled up my neck to my hood that he pulled gently over my head. "I do not need you catching a cold." He softly smiled, and my stomach did a somersault.
"Recognized, Aqualad, B-02, Virago, B-06."
TAIPEI
SEPTEMBER 7, 20:30 NST
"The unification is unthinkable!"
"Our people no longer have anything in common!"
"Gentlemen, this is mere rhetoric." Lex Luthor said. His voice sounded calm and cool, but also very deceiving. I'm not sure why everyone was so captivated by him. "Despite your differences, you still share an appreciation for many things, such as the exquisite art of the Rhelasian tea ceremony."
I followed his gaze to a woman dressed in traditional clothing who was pushing a tea cart. Kaldur gave me a quick nudge and I realized who she was. Chesire. But where was Lamia?
I quickly scanned the group of people around me. She already got caught once, so she'd probably be in a disguise or hiding in plain sight.
He took out his water bearers as my hand hovered over my totem. "That is far enough, Chesire."
She narrowed her eyes and looked between Kaldur and I, then behind us at Roy and Luther. What happened next was a blur.
I remember seeing a figure come behind Chesire as she pressed a button on the tea cart. Kaldur pushed me behind him as water flew from every direction and formed a barrier in front of us and the group of civilians.
"Move!" I ordered and grabbed as many people as I could and moved them underneath the tables. I touched my totem and let the first animal that came to mind power through me: a panther.
BOOOOOM!
Glass shattered and people were screaming and rushing to safety. My head was pounding and ears ringing but I tried to focus on anything else - Kaldur.
The blast from the explosion tore his jacket and he was almost on his knees, drenched in sweat. I stood in awe of him and how powerful his magic is.
Without even thinking, I was moving towards him and looking over him for any injuries. I almost forgot the reason why we were here but I had to make sure he was okay. He gave me a quick nod as I helped him to his feet.
"It's over." Red Arrow landed behind us and trained his bow on the two women in front of us. Lamia was holding Chesire, shielding her from the blast and from the cuts and glass shards sticking out of her arms and legs, it looked like she took the brunt of it.
Cheshire smirked as they stood up with ease. "You would think so." As Lamia brushed the glass off her body, a loud helicopter flew into view, blocking the giant hole in the wall. Sportsmaster and dozens of assassins emerged from the helicopter as one of the generals yelled out something in his language. A group of men in suits shot past us and began fighting the assassins, leaving Sportsmaster, Chesire, and Lamia to us three.
Red Arrow pulled back an arrow, staring daggers at the women in front of us. "You two take Sportsmaster and Lamia. Chesire's mine."
Cheshire smirked, licking her lips. "Mm, so territorial and only our third date~" I gave a silent look to the Atlantean and I hoped he understood what I meant. 'Please be careful.'
Aqualad skillfully jumped over the two and went for Sportsmaster while Lamia separated from Chesire and ran at me.
I side stepped out of the way and kicked her into the giant fallen statue. It cracked in half on impact but it didn't faze her. "Ooo how I've missed you, little Vira." She cracked her knuckles as a bright devious smile appeared on her lips.
I rolled my eyes. "Feeling is not mutual Lamia."
She frowned but I doubt she was upset. "Don't be like that. You'll hurt my feelings!" She charged forward and jumped high, swinging her foot back. I barely had enough time to dodge but her hands shot forward and grabbed my shoulders.
Lamia dug her nails into my arms and slammed my body down. I learned from my mistake last time and held out my hands so my face would land on them instead of smacking into the floor and breaking my nose.
As soon as I hit the ground I rolled back to my feet and began throwing punches. She seemed to know my every move and deflected each jab. And by the look on her face, she was enjoying this.
This was getting annoying.
With my final punch, I swung for her jaw then for her nose with my other hand. She couldn't keep up with my speed as I caught her off balance. I shoved her chest as hard as I could, sending her into Chesire.
Red Arrow shot an explosive arrow at the two as I joined him and Aqualad who was still facing off against Sportsmaster. I stood behind him watching Chesire and Lamia and while he shaped his water bearers to dual blades.
I heard the older villain chuckle. "Not bad, 'Lad. Better than your team did in Santa Prisca or Bialya."
My eyes widened in shock as I turned on my heel. "How did you-" Kaldur tried, but he cut him off.
"Let's just say I have an inside source." His eyes narrowed at me and I felt my stomach drop. He knew something I didn't. "Very inside." First Mari, then Lamia, and now Sportsmaster? Who else is keeping secrets from me? No. It can't be.
Kaldur and I exchanged looks. There's no way he's telling the truth. Why should we trust him? I don't know much about him but trustworthy is something he isn't.
"Aqualad, Virago, let's end this!" The archer shot an arrow at the sprinklers above us, and each of them erupted with water. I stepped back, knowing that whatever he was going to do was gonna take everyone out.
Kaldur's water bearers glowed the brightest I've ever seen them. Water swirled around him and morphed into a serpent that went after the assassins, then Sportsmaster. Chesire and Lamia landed in front of him, almost protectively, and threw an explosive into the snake's mouth.
The water dissipated and smoke quickly filled the room. Memories of when I fought Lamia and Keres at Zoe's school flashed in my mind as I coughed into my elbow. I tried my best to look past it, knowing that they would strike at any moment, but it started burning my eyes.
Before I had time to react, an assassin jumped through the smoke heading right for the two generals. There was another explosion, smaller this time, and someone cried out in pain. Oh no, please don't tell me we failed.
The smoke cleared as the three of us readied ourselvesl, but they were gone. Disappeared without a trace. I guess that's why they're called Shadows.
"Gives new meaning to the arms race, doesn't she?" I heard Luther say as we turned around towards them. His assistant, Mercy I think her name is, had a robot weapon for an arm. It deactivated and her arm looked completely normal.
Both of the generals sighed in relief. "That technology is most impressive!" One of them complimented, shaking Luther's hand.
"Yes, we owe you our lives sir." The other said, bowing respectfully.
Red Arrow scoffed. "They owe him their lives?"
I crossed my arms and mumbled under my breath, "Jjajeungna." After all of that, we get nothing? I'm not expecting an award or money. I don't care about that but at least a thank you would suffice.
"Yes, quite a coup for Lex Luthor. Under his leadership, North and South Rhelasia are signing a treaty which could eventually lead to reunification." Cat Grant reported as we watched the leaders sign the important paperwork. Dozens of people were taking pictures and for a moment I felt extremely lucky to be here, watching an important part of history take place. Think of the positives.
I followed after Kaldur and Roy, ready to crawl into bed. "I can't believe we just did a solid for Lex Luthor." Red Arrow huffed.
"Not for Luther, for peace." The Atlantean corrected and I nodded in agreement.
"I don't know much about Rhelasia but this is great for both countries, especially their people." I added.
"Beyond that," Kaldur continued, and I breathed in the fresh air as we stepped out of the building. "If Ra's and the League of Shadows wanted to sabotage the summit, the signing of the treaty rends their contract moot. It is over."
"Is it?" Roy raised his eyebrow. "I heard what Sportsmaster said. Do you really think there's a mole on your team feeding him intel?"
I shook my head firmly. "No, I don't think so. We can't trust him for a second."
Kaldur sighed. "You are right, but we cannot rule out the possibility. We will investigate, quietly."
"Not tell them?"
My eyes widened. "Kal, are you sure that's the best idea?"
"I do not want the unit unraveling over baseless suspicion. And if there is a mole, I have no wish to tip him or her off."
I bit my lip, feeling an anxious pit form in my stomach. This didn't feel right. This was our team, the people we fight and train beside. But I also trusted Kaldur. He is our leader after all, he knows what's best.
I began to fiddle with my fingers, unsure of what to do. "Mollayo... I don't like keeping secrets." Kaldur knew what I meant and his eyes softened. The last thing I ever wanted to do was hurt our friends. Unfortunately, I know first hand what it feels like when someone is hiding things from you.
The archer gave us a small salute. "Good luck with that." As he turned to leave, Kaldur reached his hand to grab his shoulder.
"One moment, my friend. Tonight you could have called Green Arrow for help, or the Justice League." He said, a small smile appearing on his lips. "Instead, your first instinct was to call the cave."
Roy turned around. "You're right. The team deserves... has my respect. I'm still getting used to this solo-act stuff. But if you all need me, I'll be there." As the two shook hands, the comm in my ear beeped. It can't be someone from the team, or else Kal would've heard it in his too.
I pressed my finger to the comm and answered, "Virago here."
Silence. No response. Maybe they didn't hear me?
"Yes, this is Virago." I said as I turned away from the boys.
This time I could hear something - it was faint but it was definitely someone fighting. The sounds of fists hitting flesh and bone was unmistakable. There was a sharp yelp in pain then a hard thud, as if they crashed into the wall.
"It was foolish of you to come here alone." A woman spoke, her voice honeyed and almost amused. She's enjoying whatever is happening.
Someone dryly laughed and my heart stopped when I heard their voice. "It was foolish of you to think you can have her." Mari.
The pit in my stomach grew so large I thought I was going to burst. Something's wrong, very wrong.
Shiiing! I recognized the sound of a blade being unsheathed. "I will have her, and my family will be whole again."
Mari growled. "Over my dead body, Nyx."
The woman chuckled. "Oh, that can be arranged."
I gasped as the two started fighting again, and it sounded like the woman with the sword - Nyx, was winning. I felt helpless standing there, listening to them fight. What can I do? Where even is she? I had to get to her, now.
Kaldur was at my side in an instant and even Roy stuck around. "Virago, what is wrong?"
My breath hitched as I heard Mari yell in pain. "It's Vixen, she's in danger-" I pointed to the comm in my ear. "I don't think she can hear me, but I can hear her."
"What do you mean danger-" Before Red Arrow could finish his sentence, glass shattered from a skyscraper down the street. As soon as I saw the orange and black outfit, I froze.
Vixen was holding on for dear life from the window with a woman pointing a sword to her throat. That had to be Nyx.
I didn't even think twice. I touched my totem as the quick flight of the Peregrin falcon flew through me.
The Atlantean's eyes widened and he reached for my hands. "Calypso, please, wait-" His and Roy's protests fell deaf on my ears before I took off towards my guardian. "Virago!"
