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EIGHT

The enemy of my enemy, is my friend…but he is also still my enemy and will be killed at the same time he is fighting our enemy.

— Lion El'Jonson (attributed)

Now, I was still quite unsure of Amberley's choice of alliance, in which I told her so upon several occasions*131. I suppose the main reason for my unease was her association in a big brute that could probably crush mine, Jurgen's, and Amberley's neck in one hand. I prefer she didn't take the risk*132. Regardless of my feelings, I have to put my trust in Amberley's instincts. To be honest, her choice of assembly point was masterfully selected, and it wasn't due to the apparent isolation of the abandoned mansion.

'Er…Miss Vail?' One of her retinue asked, approaching her rather awkwardly. For someone that towers over us, never mind the bulging muscles, she seems uneasy. I couldn't exactly blame her, considering she was nothing compared to El Bane's Catachan body. 'Bane just updated us. Said he'll be coming in around fifty mikes*133.'

'Thank you Miranda.' Amberley replied kindly, patting the woman's shoulder. 'Do prepare the others, if you'd kindly.' With a nod, she left to do just that. She motioned for me to follow her, heading towards the dresser.

'Where do you find them?' I wondered unconsciously, opting to guard the entrance. 'Not that I'm complaining, mind you.' In more ways than one, if I'm completely honest*134.

'Who? Miranda?' She asked, requesting for clarification. I believed my wits had faltered a bit when I shared a glimpse. Amberley was going for the full klom*135 with her presentation, not that she was actually finished slipping on her horizon blue dress.

'Well, her for starters.' I suggested, regaining my composure. 'And some notable examples you wish to share with me.' I took a look outside to see others of Amberley's retinue move boxes and tables around, as well as prepare stub guns.

'Miranda was a former soldier.' Amberley answered. 'Participated in Earth's War in Afghanistan and Iraq. She was discharged, honourably, but has been running low on funds. Apparently, readjusting to civilian life had been difficult and the Private Military Companies won't hire her. So, I did. The local arbites seemed to be rather supported of my decision.'

'And the others?' I pressed, seeing some that are rather young for my liking. I distinctly remembered a Juve, no older than sixteen, enter our current quarters to set up a portable cogitator, or "laptop," as I've been told.

'The others are Juves from the local schola, the homeless down on their luck.' She said, listing them off. 'Or small time criminals that the Winter Flats Police Department gracefully loaned out to me for "community service".'

'Are you sure they are skilled?' I asked, not really looking forward to human shields that are the equivalent to a canvas sheet.

'In their own ways.' Amberley scoffed, as if I insulted her*136. 'They have their purposes, and they do know the seriousness of what they do…and the enemy they face.' Oh yes, the hidden enemy Amberley has yet to inform me about*137. I didn't want to question her since, inevitably, she would request that I brief them due to the rapport I made with the leadership. Obviously, that was something I rather not do. I have so much more important things to do with my life*138 than to entertain the Justice League any longer than I wished.

'Cain, if you'd kindly assist me with the zipper?' Amberley asked, breaking me from my thoughts, her back towards me. I attempted to show my best commissarial indifference as I dutifully zipped up the dress. I never tried to voice my opinions out loud, especially in front of her retinue, however I must admit that the dress fits Amberley rather well. It clung to her figure like mist. I wonder if she ever commissioned one similar to it when we returned*139?

She turned to face me, allowing me (including the Juve with the cogitator) a good look. I felt my heart skip a beat. Not just her dress, but how Amberley appeared before us rather reminded me of Gravalax, back at the Governor's mansion when a certain tall, slim blonde with shoulder-length hair and hazy blue eyes had captured my attention. I was almost taken back there again, and I desired to share a slow dance with her. No interruptions, no mission, no war. Just me, her, and Jurgen. That, and a lifetime supply of amasec.

'How do I look?' She asked, snatches of her husky contralto carrying itself into my ear. 'Am I decent?'

'Just like Gravalax.' I admitted, and I couldn't help but realize how demure my tone had become. 'You'll be more than alright Amberley.' Her smile was slight, but I know just how much it beamed. 'Remember that I'll be-'

'Some sandwiches Commissar? Inquisitor?' My odious companion offered, breaking me from my trance at once. We politely addressed him, now realizing he was holding out a tray for us. I politely declined the morsels, while Amberley eagerly took at least five half-slices*140. I wanted to join her, though I doubt my stomach could handle the horrifying anticipation of the coming meeting. So, I surrendered my helpings to the Juve, whom seemed to beam towards me for some reason. I wonder why, I just gave him a sandwich. Maybe he was hungry.

'Yo Boss-lady! I gots a something for ya! You too bro!' The Juve with the cogitator called out, uncaring of the fact that he was addressing an Inquisitor and a Commissar in that tone, let alone the incomprehensible diction. I wonder if he's related to Zemelda? 'I gots a plane comin' in for a landing. Look's like Bane's packing heat and friends.'

'Excellent. Stay inside and stay hidden.' Amberley ordered, beckoning for Jurgen and I to follow. I simply tipped my hat to him. 'Keep up the good work.'

'Ya know it Boss-lady! Good luck bro!' He replied, a gleaming, pearly smile shining in the moonlight. Now, we were all on Amberley's stage. Let's just hope I remember my lines.

The moonless night seemed to have its own charm, though I believed the silence contributed the most to it. The calm atmosphere was quickly dashed by the sound of the propeller motor of a small aircraft called a "plane". Immediately, paraffin pits were lit and the aircraft was coming our way. As I expected of Amberley's retinue, they stood at attention, heavily armed and armoured (in terms of those living on this Earth). I believe I saw a heavy weapons team on standby. Where on Earth did she get that*141?

Regardless, the aeroplane touched down on the grassy knoll, and the retinue took up positions on either side of the door, and the first to step out was El Bane, followed by his retinue, along with several others that don't seem too belong to him, especially the twat wearing that ridiculous "hockey" mask. Who does he think he is, a mentally ill hooligan with no sense of decorum?

'Ah, Inquisidora.' He began, sounding as if she was some daughter he hadn't seen in a long time. 'Comisario. Artillero. It is good to see you again, my friends.'

'Charmed.' Amberley said, holding out the back of her hand, which seemed to amuse El Bane as he kissed her hand. 'It appears you had brought your colleagues as well.'

'Ah, as inquisitive as always.' The catachan man stated, before introducing to the following guests. 'May I present the representative of The Commission, Leone Galante.' He was an old fellow in a business suit, but something in his eyes suggests he knows a lot more than he lets on. Amberley approached him, and the two kissed each other's cheek. 'This is Kwon Eun-Ha, a representative of the Kkangphae Korean Mafia.' The woman appeared to be around Amberley's current age, which is saying something, and dressed in a rather nice business dress. The two shared a respectful bow. 'Finally, allow me to present the leader of the League of Shadows. Ra's Al Ghul.' Upon seeing the last member to arrive, I couldn't help but notice how similar he appears to a Tallarn Desert Raider. It could be just my imagination*142, Emperor knows how annoying those Emperor-botherers can be. He extended a hand, which Amberley accepted.

'Please step inside and join us for business and dinner.' She said, gesturing towards the mansion. 'Do forgive my retinue, I'm sure you understand the need for security, as you had brought your own.'

'I would have been insulted if you didn't, la Inquisidora.' El Bane seemed to admit. 'I must thank you again for your advice. I had rooted out the source of my problems, as did the others.'

'I was skeptical.' Eun-Ha said, rolling up a sleeve of her business dress. 'Until my own men tried to kill me. Like it or not, I owe you.'

'The Commission would like to see hard evidence.' Leone admitted. 'Now, it isn't because I don't believe you, I do. But in this business, people tend to be paranoid, irrational. I need hard evidence.'

'As would I.' Ra's Al Ghul added.

'And you will have it.' Amberley assured, snapping her fingers. 'Please follow me so you may collect your evidence.' With that, she led us towards inside the mansion and opened the closet.

'I advise you to wear the hazmat suits.' Amberley said, in the same way she "advises" me to lead increasingly suicidal missions. 'The material you are about to face is extremely infectious.' At the time, I thought nothing of it. Why would I, seeing that I was trapped on this world. However, knowing my luck, of course this would be the case. We stepped into the basement, and I fought to keep my jaw levelled. I wanted to deny the evidence in front of me, but I really couldn't. As it turns out, so couldn't Ra's Al Ghul.

'These, my honoured guests, are Genestealer hybrids.' Amberley explained, pointing at each carcass. 'And they develop in much the same way as presented, becoming more and more inhuman as the infection progresses.'

'How does one fight against these hybrids?' Leone asked, taking photos of the carcass and medicae files. 'How can you tell between one of us and one of this fourth generation ones?'

'You will notice a potential hybrid by either a medical examination, or physical features such as being pallid and bald. They will often have a tattoo that identifies themselves as part of the genestealer cults.' Amberley explained. 'You can't pick them out by their actions, because they were trained in infiltration and appear to be hardworking and above suspicion. No one is above suspicion, all are suspect.'

'So why come to us?' Leone pressed, the old man looking rather unamused. 'Why not go to the government?'

'Frankly, I do not trust the United States government. They seem to have no concept of subtlety.' She replied, and to my surprise, truthfully. 'This war must be conducted in secret, and I intend to keep it that way.'

'Why not go to the Justice League?' Ra's Al Ghul wondered. 'They have the resources.'

'Do you really believe they can keep a secret?' Amberley deadpanned.

'What do you say, Commissar?' Ra's Al Ghul said, now turning to me. I hid my sigh under my usual facade, and stepped forward.

'Inquisitor Vail speaks the truth.' I said with my best pomp. 'The Justice League, despite their resources, are not the best option to eliminate all traces of the Genestealer threat. Containment will not work. Searching for a cure is impossible due to the rapid evolution of the strain. Furthermore, government intelligence agencies are hampered by the laws of the land, whether we like it or not, believe it or not*143.'

'I see.' The Tallarn man said, though I paid him no mind. Whether he believes me or not, I couldn't care less. Though, I would like to believe that what I said did help Amberley gain him as an ally*144.

'Are you satisfied by this evidence?' Amberley asked politely.

We had dinner afterwards, though I found myself without appetite. Unsurprisingly, considering the current problem. It's completely one thing to face insanity of this world, it's an entirely different thing when the monsters from my world come here. I don't feel particularly optimistic about our chances if a hive fleet were to arrive. Hybrids though? Maybe, just maybe we have a chance, but the chances are worse than Beije actually playing a game of regicide.

'Then you had successfully uprooted your problem?' Amberley asked, gesturing to El Bane and Eun-Ha. 'And I do mean uproot.'

'I had conducted a medical evaluation upon all of my men and their families.' He said, taking a seat once Amberley took her's. 'I will be redoing the medical evaluations with a different doctor to make sure I eliminated every last one of those things.' El Bane turned to me. 'And I want to thank you, El Comisario. While you had failed to execute my men, I learned that he was one of them. You have saved my gang, and my life. I am grateful to you.'

'Bane had offered his men after I had to clean out my traitors.' Eun-Ha admitted. 'As of now, my organization had been cleaned out.'

'What of The Commission?' Amberley asked Leone, whom promptly answered. 'I got through their fucking heads. They're putting everyone through medical evaluations. They'll be contacting the mother country to inform them the latest of this fucking mess.' He sure curses a lot more than I expected.

'How expansive is The Commission?' I asked, unable to help myself. 'Are they trained?'

'We're nation wide boy.' Leone replied. 'We just act as the arm for the mother country is all. Helps makes sense of the fuck up here. As for their training? Well. we have former soldiers among our ranks.'

'Ha!' Eun-Ha boasted in the proverbial dick-measuring contest. 'The Kkangphae are all former soldiers!'

Either way, my chances of survival have increased. I looked towards Ra's Al Ghul and I can't help but feel like he's examining me for some queer reason. Regardless, I had to put up a show for this meeting to play out. That, and I believe Amberley's throat was parched.

'Perhaps we should mark our territory, as it were.' I proposed, and one look on Amberley's face showed a mixture of surprise and relief. I assumed I made the right choice, so I pressed on. 'Now, our operations, as of now, are nationwide. I believe El Bane desires South America, if I'm not mistaken.' He raised a glass for me in approval. 'What of The Commission's?'

'America's our home. If anyone wants to fuck with it, they fuck with us.' He stated. 'We will, however, not be opposed from supporting yours, if you help ours.' Fair enough. Nothing insane on our end then. 'I'm sure the mother country will ensure their foothold in Europe.'

'And of Kkangphae?' I wondered, not quite sure where she comes from. Fortunately, I need not answer.

'Korea is our domain.' Eun-Ha stated. 'However, we have made a foothold on Tsushima Island and are in negotiations with the Yakuza there. Despite our differences, they were alerted to this internal infection and are taking measures themselves. China is a different story.'

'I believe I have some pull to have China kowtow before me.' Ra's Al Ghul said, though it sounded rather like a small flex. 'However, I am rather curious if I should join this alliance. The League of Shadows can handle themselves, and we will fight alone if necessary.'

'There is strength in numbers.' I retorted. 'Yes, we may have different credos, different beliefs, and different values on morality, but our strength is that of our humanity. We are all humans, and we will fight back the tide that are the Genestealers.'

'Pretty words, but they lack the value of action.' He said, not without a hint of mirth. 'Perhaps you can prove it to me. Fight Sportsmaster in a duel. If you win, you will have the full cooperation of the League of Shadows.' I turned to Amberley, predictably she smiled and raised her glass. 'I believe the night requires some entertainment, does it not?' First it was Leone, next was Eun-Ha raising their glass. I looked to El Bane, and he raised his own glass. Though, he did seem a little apologetic for it. I looked at Jurgen, who as unimaginatively gave a nod. Just about my luck then.

'Very well.' I told Ra's Al Ghul. 'Let's take this matter outside. Let's not ruin the interior decoration.'

For whatever reason, the Tallarn started to laugh.

I was out on the grassy knoll once again, facing off against a twat with a "fencing sabre" as it were. Granted, it does appear like a sword, but this was nothing compared to the Schola's. I gave the sword a few test swings. It was well balanced, I will admit, and I found no reason to then level it at this Sportsmaster. A ridiculous name for a ridiculous man.

'You punk really think you can beat me?' He jeered, holding his sabre at chin level. 'Back out now before I decide to get serious.'

'I see no reason why I shouldn't.' I retorted, keeping my tone light and somewhat mocking. 'You hardly seem to be a master of anything.'

In an instance, he lunged for me. I decided to play to play on the defensive. If he is going to act like some Khornate berserker, I see no reason not too! Typically, he proved to be knowledgeable at his craft, but predictable. He's using the old tricks and maneuvers from the textbook. I can't say that I'm impressed. Sufficed to say, I saw no reason to let this farce continue on any further.

To my surprise, he broke me from my attempt by trying to throw a round ball at me. If it weren't for my duellist reflexes, I would have found myself on the ground. Nonetheless, I pressed the attack after the momentary setback and found myself gaining ground rapidly. My basic swings seemed to do the trick and I kept the pace*145. It wasn't before long that I caught him in his right breast.

'Enough!' Ra's Al Ghul proclaimed. 'It seems to be that young Ciaphas Cain is a worthy warrior.' He addressed Amberley. 'As I had promised, you will have the full support of the League of Shadows.'

'Thank you, Ra's Al Ghul.' Amberley curtsied. 'You do me great honour for your contributions for the protection of humanity.'

I turned to Sportsmaster and extended a hand, more as a courtesy than any actual respect. He cast my hand aside, almost snarling. 'You're just lucky kid!'

Well, I won't argue with that at least. I had been remarkably lucky throughout my long career, but this? This was nothing compared to Space Marines. 'Yes, well, I'm sure we all have some bad days.' I replied offhandedly. 'Come now, I'm sure there are some fine glasses that need attending too.'

He didn't seem to take too kindly to the idea. Rather, he seemed to desire nothing more than to kill me right then and there. I honestly don't know why he wants to even go there.

≡][≡

Editorial Note:

Concurrently, Black Canary had took it upon herself to test the fighting skills of the team as well as perform some simple mental diagnostics on the team. The mission itself was a disaster. This time it was Superboy of all people that did it in. I will admit surprise. On another hand, to no one's surprise, team cohesion had significantly improved after our temporary departure. With no hate sink to rant their feelings upon, they found more productive use of their time actually "assisting". Though they still managed to botch things nonetheless. I digress, I am once again forced to refer to Conrad Sullivan's journal and his utter assault on the Gothic language. He seems to be my most reliable source of information about the Team's feelings for us, as well as reasonably estimate their future actions. Emperor bless my soul, this is horrible!

Extracted from Mah Journal, by Conrad Sullivan, August 3, 2010

Yo, yo, yo, yo, yo bros. I'm back again and boy was tonight so frickin awesome! I mean, I just met four gang leaders*146 and I got a little extra for good work! I mean, it was great man! And the food was so great, but that's not what I want to write about. Now Inquisitor Amberley Vail wanted me to keep an eye on Robin, Kid Flash, Aqualad, Superboy, and Miss Martian because she doesn't trust them. I wouldn't blame them either because those guys are such tools! I mean, I thought they were so cool because why wouldn't I? They were heroes! But with how Robin and Kid Flash treated Amberley, Ciaphas, and Jurgen*147 made my blood boil.

Like, this was the conversation I got from The Cave. BTW, Captain Marvel and Black Canary was there and I will be using "CM" and "BC" to make my transcript*148. This is what I found from my scrying*149.

BC: Alright Captain, if you were to compare this mission and the previous one, what do you think?

CM: Well, I think the team worked out really well this time. I mean, they don't have to worry about some scary evil lady with an evil motto, as well as gun tooting…er…gunners.

(bruh, Amberley is hot as hell!)*150

BC: Are you talking about Amberley, Cain, and Jurgen?

CM: Yeah them. Sorry, kinda forgot their names.

BC: …right, so why do you think-[Knocking on door] Come in!

(Robin, KF, Aqualad, Miss Martian, and Superboy came into the room, acting like they are da shit…but they totes aren't!)

KF: Hey BC, Captain Marvel. How's it hanging?

BC: Wally…just stop.

(Robin was snickering at his failing to hit on Black Canary)

BC: Anyways, I called you in here to ask you one simple question. How did this mission feel compared to last one?

(Everybody's shouting out their answer, only stopping when Black Canary clapped her hands)

BC: Alright, one at a time. Robin?

Robin: I think everything went so much better this time than last time. No one got seriously hurt and we defeated Doctor Ivo's AMAZO.

BC: But Doctor Ivo got away.

Robin: Yeah, he did. When we got distracted, he slipped away.

BC: What do you think would have happened if the Inquisitor, Commissar, and Gunner were with you?

Robin: They would have probably shot Doctor Ivo on the spot, murdering him right then and there. Maybe with the Inquisitor torturing him for good measure.

CM: Yeah, I can see that.

BC: Captain!

CM: Sorry, I just. You know what her motto's like? Innocent…er…

BC: Innocentia nihil probat. But that hardly-

KF: Dude, that's like so evil!

Miss Martian: What does that mean?

Robin: Innocence proves nothing. Is she that much of a psychopath that even if she gets a truthful answer, she'll just keep torturing people until they die?

BC: For your information, the Inquisitor has not killed anyone during her time operating in Winter Flats. In fact, she, the Commissar, and Gunner had formed a good rapport with the Winter Flats Police Department and work with them to capture and detain prisoners under the rule of law. Now then, Robin. In your own words, tell me what you think of the Inquisitor, Commissar, and Gunner.

Robin: I think the Inquisitor is a real psychopath fit for Arkham. She has no sense of morality and is playing on an act. She has a warped sense of justice and needs help. The Commissar is a conman. I seen people like him so many times that I know he doesn't really care about us. He'll abandon us if that means he'll survive. Gunner is just a lackey, like the ones I beat up in Gotham.

BC: Okay, thank you for your honesty. Kid Flash, what do you think of them?

KF: I mean, the Inquisitor is hot and all but she has issues. Like, real big issues. She isn't ready for the field. I mean, she was talking with BANE of all people. I didn't get much from her talk, but I know she's trying to worm her way into his mind or something. He's a violent criminal! We don't talk, we beat them down and throw them in prison! Commissar is way too overly protective of the Inquisitor. I mean, jeez, he really has to back off. And he's way too sensitive of his personal space, and he is prejudice. He's closed minded and he really won't last long in the hero biz. Gunner is a lackey. I mean, is there anything more I can say beautiful?

BC: Of course you'd say that…Captain Marvel, take over.

CM: Er…okay…uhm…So Miss Martian. What do you think of them?

Miss Martian: Well, I have a feeling the Inquisitor is scared of me. Did something happen?

CM: Well…I think your uncle might have entered her mind…

Miss Martian: OH NO! No wonder she's scared of me! I should apologize!

CM: Hey, don't worry about it. Trust me, okay. She's just…she'll get used to it, really.

Miss Martian: If you're sure.

CM: Totes M'gann!

Miss Martian: Anyways, the Commissar also seemed to be scared of me as well. Did the same thing happen to him?

CM: No…he's…well…He's not comfortable with aliens. The Commissar has many bad experiences with them, y'know? So he tries to avoid them. So many had taken potshots at him, right? Obviously, he'll want to try to shoot back. To be honest, I'm surprised he didn't try to shoot you on sight.

Miss Martian: Well, whenever I'm on the bioship, he's a lot kinder to me…maybe that means he's getting used to me.

CM: Maybe…keep trying, he'll warm up fully, I'm sure. And Gunner?

Miss Martian: An absolute monster.

KF and Robin: What?! What did he say to you?!

Miss Martian: Nothing! Honest! It's just…anytime I enter his mind, it feels like a blackhole trying to suck me hole. He's…he's nothing! I feel like my soul trying to get consumed! I…I can't read him!

CM: Oh-kay…right, something to think about. (he starts mumbling here) Man, even J'onn said that! (stops mumbling here) Now, what about you Superboy?

Superboy: I don't really have an opinion of the Inquisitor. She somewhat reminds me of Batman.

Robin: I'm sorry, WHAT?!

Superboy: Secretive; wears a black cloak and dark colours; managed to keep up with you even when you ditched us; and likes to scare criminals? I'm pretty sure.

Robin: She is NOTHING like-

CM: Chill Robin. Chill. Superboy. Continue.

Superboy: Anyways, I don't really have any opinions on her. The Commissar is someone I like. He's not controlling and he's actually pretty considerate. Maybe it's because he's scared of my powers sure, but he doesn't try to order me or make himself bigger than me. He's just…polite and reasonable. Gunner though…I don't really know. I never really talked to him, but he seemed to be okay if he's with the Commissar all the time. He's okay I guess, but I haven't really talked to him.

CM: Okay…Aqualad, what do you think?

Aqualad: While Robin and Kid Flash brings good points in regards to the Inquisitor, I believe they are incorrect in their assessment. The Inquisitor must have undergone intensive training that broke her in someway. Her smiles and seemingly "psychopathic" actions could be a way to cope with what she's done*151. Her actions and performance in mission tells me that she is an experienced warrior used to blood. I would say the same assessment of Commissar and Jurgen. The greatest difference I notice about any of them are their personalities. The Inquisitor holds to secrecy like a veil, and is also paranoid to absurdity. Something that reminds me of Batman.

(Robin coughed and hacked as if he ate something slimy. Ew, slimy things)

Aqualad: Commissar's personality is what I would consider to be closest to a proper hero. He is humble, thoughtful of others, and is open minded. He doesn't use his intelligence and tactical mind to gain an advantage over others and he has been invaluable during the mission to Santa Prisca. I trust him and his instincts. Gunner, while having a body odour problem, is a premier example of loyalty I have seen only once before in Atlantis. He would make any commander proud, and I am proud to be his friend.

CM: Sweet, good to know that you are optimistic about them. Oh, and I almost forgot! What do you think of them Starfire?

Starfire: I love all of them!

(Everyone, and I meant only Robin, Kid Flash, and Captain Marvel, were surprised.)

Starfire: They are excellent warriors! Amberley is a great fighter, very persistent! And I can't wait to see what she has in store for me. I look forward to her next challenge. Jurgen is a very loyal and a proud warrior! I am very honoured to fight alongside him anytime of the month-

Captain Marvel: (coughing) week

Starfire: -And Ciaphas Cain…(she began trailing off)…Ciaphas is…

(Now my dudes, if y'all have seen anime, think of her like those tsundere characters*152)

Starfire: Ciaphas is my mate*153. I want to take him close to my arms, embrace him with all my feelings that he must have for me*154! I want him to dominate me like he had done when we first met in Winter Flats*155! His strong arms against my own, pressing me to the ground-

Captain Marvel: OH-KAY! No! Stop! STTTTOOOOOPPPPP*156! I DON'T want to know. Right…well…I see that you guys have some conflicting opinions of them, but they are here to stay. The League believes that they have some potential to be heroes*157. So far, they have been doing well, like what Black Canary said. Sure, they're still rough around the edges, but the thing is, they do have training. They are not born on Earth, even though they are human. They have been taught and trained to kill for most of their life, and the fact that they have shown restraint means they are capable of change. Just give them some time*158.

Robin: They already been here for a year.

Captain Marvel: Yeah, well, not everybody learns at the same pace as you do.

(Captain Marvel grabbed Black Canary and left, leaving the team alone. My man, that was the first time I heard their backstory, but I really do believe Captain Marvel. I know, they look like they were born here…maybe a little British but still dude! It's awesome and the fact Inquisitor didn't try to kill me when I learnt that means she has a thing for me*159.)

Kid Flash: Seriously? The League actually believes that garbage? C'mon!

Aqualad: You should keep an open mind Wally. If you had sparred with him, you would be able to tell some of their quirks and skill. Like Starfire had said, those three are soldiers. They are well trained, well disciplined, and do not hesitate in the face of their orders. What makes them different is that they can think for themselves and make snap judgement instead of blindly following orders.

Robin: Okay, I admit that they do seem to be trained, but I looked up all paramilitary, pseudo-military, and guerrilla forces in the world. They do not exist. That isn't normal! Even then, they should have a paper trail. They don't.

Superboy: Maybe that means they are from a different world.

Robin: Or they have a good hacker.

Aqualad: Seriously, let it drop Robin, Kid Flash. Whatever your misgivings about them, you must let it go and spend some time with them. You may want to try to reach out to them again and make peace with them. Please, just try.

—FOOTNOTES—

131. Several? I recall you stating your misgivings at least ten times per day, for a week.

132. It is always satisfying to know how much he cares, though hardly necessary.

133. Mike - Used by the Elysian Drop Troops in reference to minutes. If they were to say mike-mike, then it is in reference to millimetres.

134. Not that you were exactly subtle in your attempt. I did have a mirror in front of me, something that you seemed to have forgotten.

135. For long time readers of the Cain Archive, you would probably be familiar with the Valhallan term. For those not in the know, "klom" is a Valhallan slang abbreviation for 'kilometre'.

136. Honestly Ciaphas, who on Terra's name do you take me for? I have standards…No, Conrad Sullivan and his assault on the Gothic Language does not count.

137. I thought I made it obvious what I was referring too!

138. Really, like what Cain?

139. I make no comments.

140. I will have you know that I was famished! This was my first meal!

141. I had…acquired an "Browning machine gun, cal. .50, M2, HB" after a box fell off of a National Guard truck.

142. You weren't the only one to make that comparison.

143. Not entirely true, I do have my choice of organization that I believe trustworthy to handle such matters. Nonetheless, his statements did help me forma rapport with Kwon Eun-Ha, Leone Galante, and Bane.

144. Somewhat. Ra's Al Ghul was properly paranoid (like any good inquisitor, but he and I agreed that the gene stealers came first. I would like to believe he took a shining to me after a while.

145. Kept the pace? As I have stated numerous times before, Ciaphas Cain was just about the best duellist this side of the segmentum. Your performance really reflected upon my reputation, and your performance was absolutely exquisite.

146. Two gang leaders, one representative to a criminal organization, and an old man with assassins at his beck and call.

147. Cain was thoroughly impressed by Conrad for his inclusion of Jurgen. He even went so far as to request I gave him extra. I did so, in return for him taking my shift in "protecting" Winter Flats.

148. For all of his annoyances, Conrad makes rather accurate documentations of his spying. Though, for whatever the reason why…

149. He calls it that.

150. I tend to ignore his commentary whenever possible.

151. I did get a good laugh from that. Still, I am wondering why the Justice League hasn't addressed the Team properly about our origins? A lot of misunderstandings could have been solved right then and there, if told. Then again, our story is highly unbelievable and would probably give them a worse impression on us than ever. That, and I'm pretty sure Batman is tired of Robin's whining and decided to "forget" about mentioning our origins.

152. I have absolutely no idea. He's like Zemelda!

153. THAT FRAKKING HARLOT!

154. No! Just no!

155. Stahp! Why can't I frakking edit this part out?!

156. THANK YOU!

157. Except Batman. The only reason we are in Winter Flats is to keep us busy and distracted so he could figure out how to make a portal to send us home, kick us into said portal, wash his hands of us, and sleep.

158. Thank you, somebody actually tells them!

159. I am not a pedophile. Conrad's sweet, truly he is in the sense that he's a puppy, but…he's a little off in the head at times.