Ep 1: homecoming
Marissa Sat on a bus remembers her mother instructing her and training her to kill. Those who saw her would see that she had a mix of white and black hair that was short in the front, a ponytail that had a red streak down one part. She had fair skin and black ires with red Xs over the black. She wore a suit that was gray and black pants
She had decided unknown to her mother to train herself In poison and venom. She drank it and injected it to become immune. She even breathed in joker gas to help her survive, which she did. Had either her mother or grandfather know they would have stopped her she knows this too well.
She had even gained Powers over darkness, fire and water. It was barking To say the least.
The bus stopped, she focused and got up. She got off the bus as she saw gotham before her.
She walked down the street, bag in hand. Because of the pit she healed faster. She took out her map and look when she saw green haired clown laugh he seemed to be throwing strange gas.
She know who he was and much to her amusement she walked Past the gas and walked up to him. As he pulled a gun out ovisily to shoot her she stabbed him through the chest with a scythe.
"Wow, so pathetic… just a joke that finely dies." She said through she didn't feel good guilty a bit. But he was a monster and her mother wanted to use him; she didn't like the death he cause on the lights mission. Another reason she ran away from home. An in all honesty her father….needed to get these monsters executed.
"Oh my God!" Someone screamed.
She disappeared before she could be seen. The police arrived on the scene with the caped crusader not far behind. He could hardly believe that the Joker was actually dead.
The stab through Joker's chest was pure proof that he was dead through. Then he heard something. "Drop it from what witnesses said the kid was doing it in self defense. right now we just need to deal with the body."
"Seriously?" Asked officer Bullock. "We're letting a killer go free?"
"No. We're going to look for the kid and help them," said Gordon. "Did anyone get a good look at the kid?"
"Just leave the kid to me, Commissioner," said Batman as he revealed himself. "I'll find the kid. You focus on the body."
He then took off and started searching for a lone child with a scythe.
-in the city-
Batman looked around until he spotted a young girl with a scythe in the distance. It must be her. He heard about commotion at Gotham Academy and was getting ready to check it out when he tracked Robin and the Team heading there. Knowing how much they wanted to do something themselves, Batman focused on the girl.
"So, you're the one who killed the Joker," said Batman.
The girl made her scythe disappear. "Yes I did."
"I'm gonna be honest, I don't blame you for that," said Batman. "But the fact remains that you killed a man."
"Last I checked I did what you couldn't. Second of all, self defense is a thing. So legally I did nothing wrong." The girl said.
"That is true," said Batman. "Though I have reasons why I never killed him. But this isn't about me, tell me who you are. And what brings you to Gotham."
"I'm just a shadow that came to meet her father." she said looking at Batman.
"It's not hard to tell who your mother is," said Batman. "So, how was Talia last you saw her?"
"She's fine, we had a disagreement of sorts and I took off." The girl remarked. "I just turned 16 you could say i got a little rebellious."
"Oh how so?" Batman asked.
"Me wanting to be like my father was one of the subjects." The girl remarked. "You I mean."
Batman paused for a few seconds and then said, "I….. I had no idea. Your mother never told me that she had you. But, you're here now, and you shouldn't be out here. Why don't I take you to my home?"
"Very well." The girl said. "I'm Yuki by The way."
"I'm glad to meet you, Yuki," said Batman as he took her hand. "You can call me Dad if you want to."
"I prefer Father."
"Okay. Father it is," said Batman.
-Wayne manor -
Batman brought Yuki home and was greeted by Alfred.
"I trust your meeting with Mr. Kent went well?" Alfred asked.
"You talked With Superman?" Yuki remarked.
"Yes. Though I wasn't aware that you knew his real name," said Batman.
"I do. Mom doesn't. It was obvious I'm quite good at what I do, father."
"I'm sorry, Father?" Alfred asked.
"He is my biological father, probably where I get my hero complex." Yuki remarked.
"Alfred, let me introduce Yuki, my daughter with Talia Al Ghul," said Batman. "Yuki, this is Alfred Pennyworth, the family butler as well as my childhood guardian."
"Its nice to meet you sir." Yuki said, holding out Her hand. "And no, my mother didn't teach me manners. I did it myself."
"Either way, you are very polite," said Alfred. "So, Master Bruce, that meet up with Mr. Kent?"
Batman sighed and took off his mask. "Not so much," he said. "Clark's a stubborn man. He says that Superboy needs me and Red Tornado and not him, but I know his real problem is that Superboy is a clone."
"Sounds like he needs a reality check." Yuki remarked coldly. "So when am I meeting Dick to change the subject?"
"Tonight when he gets home," said Bruce while pulling his mask back on. "I'm gonna bring him back after today's mission is finished."
Just then, they all heard a beeping sound and Batman had to answer the comlink.
"Batman responding. What is it, Green Arrow? Uh-huh. I see. Okay, I'll meet you at her mom's apartment after we meet the Team," said Batman.
"Is everything alright?" Alfred asked.
"Green Arrow has decided to take on a new protege," said Batman. "In fact, she was a big help to the Team while fighting Amazo."
"Shall I prepare a room and a meal for the newest addition to the family?" Alfred asked.
"Yes. She must be hungry and tired after a long trip," said Batman. "I'll be right back, Yuki. With Dick."
As he left, Yuki, who was there but a second ago was gone. Alfred sighed deeply. "Yeah, definitely his kid."
-With batman-
Yuki had put on a Batman outfit after altering it a bit and had followed him.
"What are you doing here?!" Batman asked in shock. "When did you even get here?!"
"A bit after you." Yuki remarked, twirling the Batman outfit. "Though this could be a better outfit."
Batman sighed and said, "Okay, you can tag along."
"Bat woman or girl?"
"You're planning on being a crime fighter?" Batman asked, slight worry and fear in his tone.
"I did tell you that I did fight About it with mom." Yuki remarked. "I wanted to be like you for a long time."
"I was hoping for you to have a normal life," said Batman.
"I was trained as an assassin, normal is me being a crime fighter." Yuki said.
Seeing that she was not changing her mind, Batman gave in and said, "Batgirl sounds appropriate."
"Batgirl then." Yuki remarked. "And don't worry the Joker was a one time thing."
"If you're going to work with me and Robin, this also grants you an open invitation to the Team," said Batman. "Specifically, the newly formed covert ops team."
"Sounds fun, is it weird I have powers and you don't?" Yuki said as she walked with him.
"Maybe a little," said Batman. "But I've heard of all kinds of surprises. It's likely that you had it in one or both sides of the family."
"Maybe you can teach me to fight more." Yuki said as they arrived.
"We'll do that," said Batman.
The Team looked surprised to see a girl in a Batman themed costume. Red Tornado, Martian Manhunter, Green Arrow, and Black Canary seemed surprised as well.
"Uh, who's this?" Robin asked.
"Batgirl." Batgirl said.
"She's joining you in training starting tomorrow," Batman said to Robin.
"Another bat protege?" Kid Flash asked.
"His kid." Batgirl pointed to Batman.
"Oh, so she's your sister," Kid Flash said to Robin.
"Well then, welcome to the Bat Clan," said Robin, extending his hand.
"You adopted another one?" Black Canary asked.
"Actually, she's my biological child. Her mother hid her from me," said Batman.
Batgirl took his hand and shook it. "I always wanted a little brother and a dog but mother said forming attachments would leave me a weakness."
"Yeesh. And I thought Superboy had it bad," Kid Flash whispered to Robin.
"Did you know dogs can be trained to hunt down others. It's quite interesting." Batgirl remarked.
"Cool," said Robin, smirking.
"Your sister is scary." Kid Flash remarked.
Batman cleared his throat and said, "Let's get back to business. Aqualad, tell me about the mission."
"The Amazo android was defeated and broken into pieces once again. They are now being delivered to the two separate Star Labs facilities," Aqualad explained. "However, Professor Ivo escaped. And since he originated the tech, he is arguably more dangerous than the android."
"Capturing the professor will be a League priority," said Black Canary.
"But we understand your mission encountered…. Other complications," said the Martian Manhunter.
Batman approached them and said, "Complications come with the job. Your ability to respond to them has impressed the League."
"The whole League?" Superboy asked.
Knowing that he was asking about Superman, Batman said, "Given time, yes. Kryptonians, as you know, have very thick heads."
"Wouldn't it be more effective If you had everyone look for them?" Batgirl remarked.
"The Team was formed to operate on the sly," said Green Arrow. "The Justice League handles the obvious stuff."
"Uh huh. Aka you hide them Well you take the real missions." Batgirl remarked coily.
"Was that a slam on our work?" Kid Flash asked.
"More of a remark on effectiveness." batgirl crossed her arms.
"The League has access to more resources," said Robin.
"I ran away from my mother and got here. I have my own resources that could be helpful. Just as you all do." Batgirl remarked. "Not to be rude father, just my observation."
"You make a solid argument," said Batman.
"Also, Green Arrow …it can still be secret unless you don't trust them to secretly look for him." Batgirl said as if to take a jab at Green Arrow's comment.
"She is definitely your kid, Batman," said Green Arrow.
"Which brings up another point," said Batman. "As impressed as we were, you should remember that there's no shame in asking for help. That's why the League exists, because there are some problems even we can't solve individually."
Robin scoffed and said, "Please. If we needed help, we'd never get the chance to ask."
Batgirl Pulled out the arrow. "Cause of this I assume you mean."
Robin checked his belt and then took it back. "How'd you get that without me noticing?"
"I'm so his kid." batgirl remarked slyly.
Robin shook his head and then said, "Getting back on topic, this is evidence that Green Arrow was following us! Babysitting!"
"Not his arrow." Batgirl remarked. "Different arrowhead."
"Good catch," said Green Arrow as he pulled one of his own out of the quiver for comparison. His arrow had a spiked head while the one that Robin showed them had a straight head.
"That is definitely not his arrow," said Robin. "Could that mean-?
"Speedy!" Kid Flash happily said.
"He has our backs," said Aqualad, smiling.
"I'd say female. It took a lot more force to pull back." Batgirl remarked. "And the arrowhead makes it fly further with less force."
"But, if Speedy didn't fire that…… and Green Arrow didn't….. then who?" Robin asked.
Kid Flash took the arrow and said, "Souvenir!"
"Weirdo."
"And how can you tell that the arrow was fired by a girl?" Miss Martian asked Batgirl.
"I'm that good." Batgirl proudly said.
"That arrow might have prints," said Batman. "Kid Flash, do you mind if I check for a bit and then return it?"
"We could analyze them and see if anyone in the system or schools matches." Batgirl said.
"Okay," said Kid Flash as he handed over the arrow to Robin.
"Don't worry you'll get it back once we're done." Batgirl remarked.
"Just one question," said Kid Flash. "Is the archer in trouble?"
"I'd say no," said Green Arrow. "In fact, I'm considering recruiting her."
"I'd be surprised if she was, though, considering what I did." Batgirl remarks.
"We should get you all home," said Batman. "Robin and Batgirl, you'll come with me to Gotham."
"Kay. See you guys next time," said Robin as he left with his family.
Gotham Wayne Manor
"That Kaldur guy was cute." Batgirl remarked as they got home.
Batman felt himself go stiff when he heard that. Robin merely laughed while going to change out of his costume.
"Bet you weren't expecting that, huh Bruce?" Dick asked as he came out in civilian clothes.
Yuki put on her normal clothing.
"I guess it was inevitable that my daughter would eventually notice boys," said Bruce as he came out in civilian clothes. "I just wasn't expecting it yet."
"I started noticing boys and girls when I turned 13." Yuki remarked.
"Well, Kaldur likes this girl in Atlantis, Tula," said Dick.
"Give Me a week I'll make him forget all About her." Yuki remarked.
"Yuki, you realize that on the Team both you and Dick follow his orders because he's the leader," said Bruce.
"Is it against the rules to date anyone on the team?" Yuki asked.
"We never actually made a rule like that," said Dick. "Besides, there's at least two couples in the League."
"Then as long as I'm professional about it I'm sure I'll be fine. And I can breath Underwater cause of my powers." Yuki said in a calm tone.
"Were you dunked in a Lazarus pit or something?" Dick asked.
"Yes."
"That explains the multiple powers," said Dick.
"Also I had powers before that."
"Now I'm confused," said Dick.
"I would advise against overthinking," said Alfred. "If everyone is ready, I have dinner ready."
"Thank You for making us food sir."
"Oh, think nothing of it. It's something I like to do for my family," said Alfred as he led them to the dining table.
"Allow me to help serve it. It's the least I can do to help." Yuki said with a gentle tone, going off to help.
"Why thank you," said Alfred, smiling. "Such a sweet child."
"Almost can't Believe she's Talia's." Bruce remarked.
"Well, she's also yours," said Alfred as the family sat down.
"Wait Taila's?" Dick asked. "She's Talia Al Ghul's daughter? She's Ra's Al Ghul's granddaughter? Eeww. Bruce, you did….. it with Talia Al Ghul?"
"That is the case I checked her DNA." said Bruce. "Plus, It was once when I thought she could change."
"And that is quite vulgar talk for the dinner table," Alfred scolded.
Yuki came back with the food. She plated the roast beef, mashed potatoes, and veggies and handed them to everyone before taking her own plate and sitting down. Everyone started eating their dinner happily.
"This is nice. Nothing like my mother's dinners."
"True. Talia had some….. specific ideas about food," said Bruce.
"You can be honest, I know what she's like after all." Yuki remarked.
"She's not very good at cooking, is she?" Dick asked.
"More like her food is soulless and not much flavor," said Bruce.
"We had Bland rice And fish most of the time. Then when one of the other students Tried to drown me and I pulled them in we had some miso." Yuki remarked.
"Ah," said Dick.
"I've been teaching Master Bruce and Master Dick to cook, I could teach you as well," Alfred offered, trying to help.
"I'd like that. Though I heard father was as very horrible cook." Yuki remarked.
Bruce looked embarrassed and said, "I can cook eggs without starting a fire now."
"But I'm better," Dick said with a smirk.
"I'm surprised you didn't ban them from the kitchen." Yuki Remarked.
"Oh he did at first," said Bruce. "We later convinced him to let us at least take some food items as long as we don't touch the stove."
Yuki ate looking away. "So my mother At least knows how to cook. Interesting."
"I'm happy to take on a new pupil," said Alfred, smiling at Yuki.
"I'd be happy To learn."
The next day
Bruce, Dick, Yuki, and Alfred had managed to get some fingerprints off the arrow. They had just finished running the prints through the computers and had finally found a match.
"One match in the school system," said Bruce. He brought up a picture of a blonde teenage girl. "Artemis Crock, age 15. She goes to Gotham North High School."
"The name rings a bell," said Alfred.
"According to her records, her parents are Paula and Lawrence Crock," said Bruce. "She's the youngest of two. Her older sister, Jade, ran away from home at 13 and was….. never found."
"I know of the parents. They're Huntress and Sportsmaster," said Yuki. "Mother worked with both from time to time. Up until Huntress got badly injured during a job 6 years ago. Huntress only recently got released from prison."
"You know alot about The Shadows huh." Dick remarked.
"It happens when you're raised among them," said Yuki.
"In any case, Artemis seems to have a good conduct record," said Bruce. "Her grades are exceptional and there isn't a sign of any troublesome behavior reports, overall the complete opposite of Sportsmaster."
"I guess some apples do fall far from the tree," said Dick.
Yuki commented. "I was gonna be Given a mission to try and recruit her or eliminate her depending but….obviously that didn't happen. I said we should let her grow up see if she's worthy or not…. Because I honestly had my own plans."
"I think Green Arrow has a plan of his own," said Bruce.
"Does this mean Speedy is gonna be replaced?" Dick asked.
"He left on his own accord and has been working on his own," said Bruce.
"Good point," said Dick.
"You kids stay here while Green Arrow and I go talk to Artemis' mother," said Bruce.
"Okay, Bruce," said Dick.
-Mt Justice, a few days later-
Batgirl arrived with Robin, out of uniform aside from a pair of sunglasses. Robin had two bags in his hands and when they met the Team, everyone had beach supplies.
"What exactly are we doing here?" Batgirl asked.
"Remember how I told you that I had a surprise?" Robin asked and she nodded. "Well, just outside is an awesome beach. And summer vacation hasn't ended for us just yet, so …… surprise! We're all hitting the beach!"
"We are?" Batgirl asked. And then she remarked. "That sounds fun."
"Got you some new swimsuits and everything," said Robin as he handed her one of the bags. "I wasn't sure what type you'd want. So I got you a few options to pick from. Some are one piece and some are two pieces."
Batgirl blinked at the sound of a two piece swimsuit. This would be an excellent opportunity to attempt to flirt with Kaldur. With that in mind, she thanked her brother and went to change into a swimsuit. She looked at a few and then she smiled when she found the perfect one.
Everyone had changed and then Batgirl finally came out in a silver two piece swimsuit with a decorative skirt.
"Ready," said Batgirl.
Kaldur blinked and then said, "Batgirl…… you look…… different."
"As do you, you look really good." Batgirl remarked.
"Thank you," said Kaldur, smiling.
Batgirl seemed satisfied with the results and walked outside with the others. As they went, she noticed that there was one member missing.
"Hello, Megan! We should hit the beach everyday!" M'gann cheered as she ran along the sand.
"First, a moment of silence for…… an absent comrade," Robin said with a sad sigh.
M'gann frowned and said, "Poor Wally."
"Where is he?" Batgirl asked. "Is he sick? On a mission?"
"He wishes," said Robin. "It's the first day of school in Central City."
"Sad." Batgirl said.
"Agreed," said Kaldur. "During our planning phase, we had forgotten about the dates when any of us start school."
"How about we honor Wally by having as much fun as we can?!" Robin declared.
Everyone cheered and went to set up. They spent the day swimming, playing volleyball, and enjoying tasty food. Batgirl even convinced Kaldur to apply sunscreen to her back, further ensuring her success.
After a while, they received an alert that they had a mission briefing to get to and packed up to go inside. Once inside, they changed into their uniforms and meet with Red Tornado and Batman. To everyone's surprise, they also found Green Arrow and a blonde girl in green with a bow and arrows.
"We got your message," said Aqualad. "What is our mission? And who is this girl?"
"She's Artemis, new protege to Green Arrow. She'll be joining the Team starting today," said Batman.
"Artemis, I'm Batgirl." Batgirl Said holding out her hand.
"Good to meet you, Batgirl," said Artemis while shaking her hand. "I recognize Robin and Aqualad from the news. But I didn't know Superman and Martian Manhunter had students too."
"I'm a clone and we don't interact much," said Superboy.
"Well, I'm called Miss Martian and he's Superboy," said Miss Martian.
"And I'm sure you haven't seen me yet so I'll say I'm Batman's kid." Batgirl said.
Artemis blinked. "Batman has a kid?" She asked. "Well, I guess he's full of secrets."
"He does it on purpose," said Robin.
"As do I, secrets wise." Batgirl said.
"Now we just need to wait on one more," said Robin. He then heard the zata tube. "Speak of the devil."
Kid Flash appeared dressed in a swimsuit and his hands full of beach gear.
"Hey, Kid Flash, nice outfit." Batgirl remarked.
"Thanks, Batgirl. And now that the Wall-man is here, let's get this party star-ah!" As he ran in, Kid Flash tripped over his umbrella pole and fell on his face. "-ted."
Artemis laughed and said, "Wall-Man, huh? Love the outfit. What exactly are your powers?"
With a blank look Batgirl looked at Artemis like Batman would with his own group.
"Uh, who are you?" Kid Flash asked.
"Artemis, your new teammate," said Artemis.
"Kid Flash. Never heard of you," said Kid Flash.
"She's my new protege," said Green Arrow while standing beside Artemis.
Kid Flash stood up and asked, "What happened to your old one? I mean, we haven't heard from Speedy since he declined the offer to join."
The zata tube identified Speedy and he appeared in the room. His outfit was noticeably different from the one seen on the news
"Well, for starters, he doesn't go by Speedy anymore," he said as he approached them. "Call me Red Arrow."
Green Arrow seemed happy as he said, "Roy. You look-"
"Replaceable," Red Arrow said, giving Artemis a cold look.
"It's not like that, Roy. You told me you were going solo," said Green Arrow.
"So why waste time finding a sub? Can she even use that bow?" Red Arrow asked, still cold.
"Yes, she can," Artemis proudly said.
"Who are you?!" Kid Flash asked.
"She's the one who fired the arrow at Amazo," said Batgirl.
"And who are you supposed to be?" Red Arrow asked while looking at Batgirl.
"She's Batgirl, Batman's second protege," said Robin. "And she also happens to be his daughter."
Red Arrow looked from one bat to the other. "Oh yeah. I can see the family resemblance," he said. "You guys have the same smile."
"Thanks. I guess," said Batman.
"Didn't Realize you smile much." Batgirl remarked cheekily.
Robin laughed and said, "I like her."
"Like her while you can. Soon you'll be replaced like I was," said Red Arrow.
"She's my sister, not my replacement," said Robin, annoyed with his friend.
"Nor is Artemis yours," said Aqualad. "We have always wanted you on the Team, and we have no quota on archers."
"And if we did, you know we'd pick," said Kid Flash while looking at Red Arrow.
"Whatever, Baywatch, I'm here to stay," said Artemis.
"I was just saying we've trained together before," Kid Flash said with a shrug.
"You came to us for a reason," said Aqualad.
"Yeah, a reason named Doctor Serling Roquette," Red Arrow said.
Robin brought up some images of a blonde woman wearing glasses.
"Nanorobotics genius and claytronics expert at Royal University in Star City. Vanished two weeks ago," said Robin.
"Abducted two weeks ago by the League of Shadows," said Red Arrow.
"You want us to rescue her from the Shadows?!" Robin asked in slight excitement.
"Hardcore!" Kid Flash said while bumping fists with Robin.
"Great shadows." Batgirl said sarcastically.
"I already rescued her," said Red Arrow. "Only one problem, the Shadows had already coerced her into creating a weapon."
He switched the screen to show bug-like robots and a tank. He continued to explain as he showed the pictures.
"Doc calls it The Fog, comprised of millions of microscopic robots. Nanotech infiltrators. Capable of disintegrating anything in their path. Concrete, steel, flesh, bone," he explained. "But its true purpose isn't mere destruction. It's theft.The infiltrators eat and store raw data from any computer system... and deliver the stolen intel to the Shadows...providing them access to weapons...strategic defense, cutting-edge science and tech."
"Perfect for extortion, manipulation, power broking. Yeah, sounds like the Shadows," said Artemis.
"Most definitely," said Batgirl.
"Like you know anything about the Shadows," Kid Flash commented to Artemis, who smirked at him; as if to tell him that she knew plenty. "Who are you?!"
"Roquette's working on a virus to render the Fog inert," said Red Arrow.
"They also do murder, poisoning, hacking and many other things." Batgirl Added.
"True," said Robin. "And if they know that the Doc can create a virus to take the weapon down -"
"She'll be targeted," said Red Arrow. "Right now she's off the grid. I stashed her at the high school's computer lab."
"You left her alone?" Green Arrow asked.
"She's safe enough for now," said Red Arrow.
"Then let's you and I keep her that way," said Green Arrow.
"You and I?" Red Arrow asked. "Don't you wanna take your new protege?"
Batgirl got in his face. "Stop being bitter and help us."
"Get out of my face," Red Arrow growled.
Green Arrow touched Batgirl's shoulder and moved her aside. And then he said to Red Arrow, "You brought this to the Team. It's their mission, which means it's hers now too."
"Then my job is done," said Red Arrow, and then he started walking away.
"Petty as shit. You're willing not only to not help but to run away from your friends." Batgirl remarked coldly.
"Easy, sis," said Robin while holding her back.
"I'm right though he's a coward. If it was Batman he go toe to toe with the Shadows."
"He has. Many times," said Green Arrow. He looked at his ally. "If it's not too bold to say."
"Do you hear me denying it or complaining?" Batman replied.
"That's my point. This guy can't even do that
I want to be exactly like my father." batgirl declared. Batman looked unhappy from that declaration however.
Red Arrow seemed ticked off at the comment about him being a coward. So he turned around.
"You need to watch your tongue," said Red Arrow. "Do you know how many criminals I took down before Robin, Kid Flash, and Aqualad even became proteges to their mentors?"
"Then face me I win you come with. You Win, I'll apologize." Batgirl remarked.
"You're on," said Red Arrow, he dropped his gear. "No weapons, skill against skill."
"Dude! He can't hit her, she's a girl!" Kid Flash whispered to Robin, and then he was punched by Artemis. "Ow!"
"To truly treat her as an equal, he needs to fight her," said Artemis.
"He will lose." Batman Commented.
"You sure?" Green Arrow asked. "He trained with both me and Dinah as Speedy."
"She was trained sense she was 5 with Someone far tougher in training than you or Dinah. Tougher than me." Bruce coldly remarked.
Before he could ask, Green Arrow saw Batgirl hand over her utility belt to Robin and walk into the ring with Red Arrow. They both got into fighting stances and then attacked. Red Arrow showed that he had been keeping up with his training, but Batgirl was clearly toying with him.
"Impressive," Red Tornado commented. "She's clearly holding back to hide the full extent of her abilities. She will likely strike at just the right moment."
No sooner did Red Tornado say that when Batgirl kneed Red Arrow in the stomach and then swept his legs and made him fall flat on his back. Underneath him was a red circle and the words "Fail: Speedy" in red.
"Ha!" Artemis laughed.
Red Arrow looked angry as he got up.
"You agreed to Batgirl's terms," said Batman. "It's your mission now too."
"It would help to have someone Roquette already knows," said Green Arrow, trying to assure his former protege.
Red Arrow stood up and said, "Fine, I'll help. But don't think this makes me an official member of your play group."
"We shall see," said Aqualad. "Kid Flash, get into uniform. I apologize for you having missed the beach party."
"Aw man!" Kid Flash said before walking away to change.
Batgirl walked over to her father. "I hope to learn more from you."
"You will," Batman said. "After you complete this mission, I'll teach you everything I know."
She nodded.
"I'll see two at home," said Batman. And then he left through the zata tube.
"Okay! Ready!" Kid Flash called as he arrived, now in uniform.
"Let's get this over with," Red Arrow grumpily said.
"Uh, sorry Red Arrow, but you don't order us," said Kid Flash. "Aqualad's the leader. You follow his orders."
"Right," said Red Arrow.
"Everyone, let's be off. We'll take the bioship to the high school," said Aqualad as he led the Team.
Everyone took their seats on the ship and let the belts strap them in. They flew to the school and hid until nightfall.
-Happy Harbor High School-
Superboy, Miss Martian, and Red Arrow watched the perimeter outside while Aqualad watched over the Doctor inside with Robin, Kid Flash, Batgirl, and Artemis.
'Miss Martian, Link us up. We do not want the Shadows intercepting our coms,' Aqualad said in his head.
'Okay,' said Miss Martian. After a minute, everyone heard her say, 'Everyone online?'
'Whoa. Weird,' Artemis said in her head.
'Batgirl, is this your first time talking with other people in your head? Cool, huh?' Robin asked Batgirl in his mind.
'For you it might be cool, but for me it's distracting. Coding a distributed algorithm virus on a kiddie computer with less RAM than a wristwatch is hard enough. Now I have to hear teen think in my skull?' Roquette said in her head.
'I don't like things in my head.'
'Apologies. We find that it is often safer to communicate psychically. Com's can be hacked, psychic powers not so much,' said Aqualad, holding her hand in reassurance.
'Ugh! And it keeps getting worse,' Roquette groaned.
'Lady, do you always complain this much when people try to help you?' Kid Flash asked.
'She had some complaints when I rescued her,' Red Arrow commented.
'Pot, kettle. Have you met?' Artemis asked.
'Hey! I don't need to take any attitude from some noob who just came out of nowhere!' Red Arrow said. 'You never mentioned how you even know Green Arrow.'
'Why do you care? You left,' Artemis retorted.
'Fate of the world at stake!' Roquette reminded them.
'look you don't have to worry… we will protect you and if a shadow finds you I'll deal with them.' Batgirl remarked.
'Another question, how do we know you're actually Batman's daughter?' Red Arrow asked.
'Would you stay focused? You're on perimeter,' Robin said.
'And if you continue to harass the Team, I will be forced to pull rank,' Aqualad warned him. 'That is your only warning.'
'Understood,' Red Arrow reluctantly said.
Roquette groaned and commented, 'I couldn't get the Justice League.'
'I will say he took a Dna Test….also no you couldn't because they're busy. And you're better under us.'
'I'll take your word for it,' said Roquette.
'The virus won't be of much use if we can not find the weapon. Can you track it ?' Aqualad asked.
'My Utility Fog is not a weapon. It's science, brilliant science. And of course I can track it, but I'd have to go online. Might as well rent a billboard with this address and "assassinate me" written in neon,' said Roquette.
Aqualad touched her shoulder and said in his head, 'We will protect you.'
This seemed to reassure her. She went back to the computer and started scanning for the machine.
Batgirl went off.
'Where are you going?' Kid Flash asked.
'Hallway patrol,' said Batgirl. 'In case someone gets past the perimeter patrol. Artemis, why don't you help Miss Martian and Superboy patrol?'
'Good idea,' said Artemis as she went outside.
'Hey, Red Arrow, would you quit being so hard on Artemis? She saved mine, KF, and SB's lives while fighting Amazo,' said Robin.
'She did?' Red Arrow asked. 'Wait, who's Amazo?'
'Android made by Ivo that can copy powers," said Kid Flash. 'We were fighting that android in the Gotham Academy gym and Artemis fired an arrow from a distance, making it used the ability it copied from Martian Manhunter. This gave Superboy a chance to stick his fist in there and break it.'
'I suppose you also don't want me being hard on your sister as well?'
'Yeah. I know she embarrassed you before, but she is my family,' said Robin.
'Fine,' said Red Arrow. 'But she's still a brat.'
'You know I can still hear you!' Batgirl said.
'Ugh!' Red Arrow groaned.
Batgirl looked around the hallway while the archers, Miss Martian and Superboy watched outside. She suddenly heard Artemis.
'Mmmmm. That boy,' Artemis said, which made Batgirl stop.
'He can hear you. We all can hear you,' said Miss Martian.
'Oh, I know,' said Artemis.
'What is going on?' Batgirl asked.
'Miss Martian just doesn't like that I notice boys,' said Artemis.
'Don't think that's the issue.' Batgirl said, secretly hoping Artemis did not have the hots for Aqualad.
'Miss Martian, Dr. Roquette has located The Fog. Reconfigure the Bio Ship so that Robin and Superboy can pursue,' said Aqualad.
Miss Martian focused on the ship and then replied, 'Ready.'
Robin and Superboy ran to the ship and boarded it. After the Bio Ship left, Artemis went back towards the school with Miss Martian.
'You embarrassed Superboy!' Miss Martian scolded her.
'He didn't seem embarrassed,' said Artemis.
'Must you challenge everyone?' Miss Martian asked.
'Where I come from, that's how you survive," said Artemis.
'Where I come from it's a way to get yourself killed.' Batgirl remarked.
Miss Martian looked confused. During their conversation, they did not notice the shadowed figure sneak into the school. Batgirl seemed to sense it and started sneaking around. She heard a noise coming from the pool and rushed to investigate.
Kid Flash was unconscious on the floor with a ninja girl standing wearing a cat mask over him.
She Made a dagger in Her hand and threw it at the figure slicing the mask. she then forced her mind to disconnect from the rest.
"Nice throw, kid," said the ninja girl. "It seems your mother taught you well."
"She did, Jade." Batgirl made a scythe.
The woman turned to Batgirl and smirked. She looked similar to Artemis, only she had black hair and black eyes. She was also slightly older.
She ran at her. "You never could win against me."
"You're talents are wasted with these so called heroes," said Jade while blocking her attacks.
"I killed Joker. I Think my talents are far from wasted," Batgirl defended.
"You're practically royalty, and yet you became Batman's stooge? What a joke," said Jade.
"Far better than My grandfather's puppet. A role that my mother seems weirdly content with," Batgirl remarked going blow to blow.
"Well, either way, I have a job to do," said Jade. "A job not related to you."
"As do I. And when you do have a job related to me I won't come quietly." Batgirl remarked.
"While it's true I could never beat you, I think I can get you out of my way," said Jade as she ran towards Kid Flash and kicked him into the pool. "He may drown. Make your choice. Chase me or save him."
Jade away from her.
Batgirl glared. Then shot a shadow down to pull him up. "She really needs to remember I have powers." she walked over to Kid Flash and made sure he was breathing. "Good, he's alive." She then ran after jade.
-computer lab-
Roquette was tracking the fog when Jade busted in wearing another mask. Aqualad pushed her down before Jade threw some shuriken at her.
"Hmm. That had to hurt," said Jade.
"Atlantean skin is quite dense," Aqualad said as he pulled out the shuriken.
"And my shuriken are quite poisonous," said Jade.
A batarang came at Jade.
"Looks like you caught up to me," said Jade. "So, you let that friend of yours drown?"
"I chose both something My father would do." Batgirl remarked.
"As would my king," said Aqualad as he attacked Jade. "Batgirl, she mentioned drowning? Who is in danger?"
"Kid Flash is fine. I pulled him out right after he went in." Batgirl coldly remarked avoiding jades strikes.
"Good work," Aqualad praised her.
She made a shadow And smacked Jade back. "Forgot I had powers, huh?"
"Damn," Jade groaned.
"You know this psycho?!" Roquette asked Batgirl.
Batgirl Became quiet then lied "Her profile."
Jade saw what she was doing and decided to humor her. "So Batman included Cheshire to his list of assassins to watch out for. I'm flattered."
"More or less though I personally didn't expect you to show up…. advice run well you can. You're out matched." Batgirl as the two girls traded blows.
Red Arrow arrived at the computer lab first and aimed his bow and arrow, Artemis followed up and did the same. Miss Martian was ready to attack as well. Jade looked around and seemed slightly surprised under her mask to see Artemis.
"I guess the little bat baby has a point," said Jade as she took off.
"She's getting away! You're letting her get away!" Roquette screamed.
"Let her." Batgirl said. "Our Mission is your safety We need to move you."
"How did that Shadow even get in here?!" Red Arrow asked angrily, he glared at Artemis and Miss Martian. "How did she get past you?! You were supposed to be on perimeter! Hell, we had a guy with super hearing!"
"She very likely either snuck past them while they were distracted. Shadow one oh one use your opponents opening to get past." Batgirl remarked.
"Plus, you're hardly one to criticize us since you were also on perimeter," said Artemis.
"That is a valid point," said Aqualad.
"Stop arguing. This isn't helpful. Aqualad What's the plan." Batgirl asked, trying to give him room to be a leader."
Kid Flash came running in and looked around. "What happened? Where's the Shadow?"
"She escaped," Roquette said, annoyed.
"I could have gone after her but if another shadow is around you'll be in danger." Batgirl remarked.
"We are changing locations right now. Only this time, we will make it harder for the Shadows," said Aqualad. And then he looked sternly at the others. "But first, I believe I mentioned Kid Flash being unconscious near the pool during my warning and said for Red Arrow to make sure he was alright. Red Arrow, why didn't you?"
"I thought protecting the doctor was more important," said Red Arrow.
"Dude! I thought we were friends!" Kid Flash barked.
"Uh, another question." Miss Martian Remarked. "I felt a Disconnect from Batgirl. I've never felt such a forceful mind able to push me out."
"You broke the mind link?" Kid Flash asked. "How and why did you do that?"
"I needed to focus on saving you." Batgirl lied. "And it's very distracting to have someone In your head. So I used some techniques to force one who uses things like Miss M out."
"I see. Well, next time, I would appreciate a warning," Aqualad said to Batgirl. And then he turned to Red Arrow. "As for you, as important as it is to protect the doctor, the safety of the Team is also important. Kid Flash was vulnerable and open for an attack. If Cheshire had not decided to leave, your decision could have cost Kid Flash his life."
"At least one of us is looking out for your so called friend." Batgirl remarked coldly.
"Same," said Robin.
Red Arrow had nothing to say back in defense. He merely hung his head and said, "Sorry."
"Now, for this next plan to work, we need everyone to follow to the letter," said Aqualad. "Batgirl, do we have your permission to use telepathy? I do not wish to chance any Shadows eavesdropping."
"Very well."
-later-
Aqualad watched outside of a bait shop while the Doctor worked on rescanning for the fog. It had already stolen information from Star Labs and destroyed the facility in the process. Their only hope was to track the fog again and take it down before the next target could be robbed and destroyed.
"Miss Martian, stay in camouflage mode and make a wide perimeter sweep," Aqualad said out loud. "Batgirl, assist her from the shadows."
Jade was watching from the trees and bushes with two other Shadows. She smirked under her mask at the announcement.
"The Martian and bat kid could return any second and I'm not keen on evening their odds. We end Roquette now," said Jade.
She went In having two others deal with the two in front.
Jade went to attack Roquette while Kid Flash and Artemis defended her. They had been pinned, but Jade got a surprise. It was not the doctor as she thought, it was Miss Martian in disguise.
"Sorry, but we knew you'd be here," said Miss Martian.
"Pursuing the target!" Jade said as she fled.
"You guys handle them! I'm pursuing the leader!" Artemis called as she ran.
Batgirl in the shadows followed Jade, her mind on keeping Jade's mouth shut.
Red Arrow At the sand bar was patrolling around while Roquette worked on tracking the fog.
and Others keeping them safe and batgirl seeing Artemis and Jade she jumped down. And tackled Jade. "Well if it isn't my best friend."
"Do you know each other?" Artemis asked.
"We were close." Batgirl remarked in a natural tone.
"When I was 16 and she was 13 we dated." Jade explained.
Artemis looked shocked. "You dated?" She asked. "And you dated her?"
"What's wrong with me?" Jade asked.
"You want me to answer that?" Artemis asked.
"You probably don't want to seeing as your place is likely not secure enough that you won't get kicked out because of our connection," said Jade, smirking. Artemis lowered her bow. "I thought so. So, like the Cheshire Cat, I'll disappear."
Batgirl glared.
"So, you and my sister," said Artemis.
"We don't talk About it." Batgirl remarked.
"Was she good to you?" Artemis asked.
"I think I broke her heart." batgirl said walking.
"Wonder if that's karma," said Artemis.
"She knows me just As well as you and I have my own secrets."
Red Arrow came outside and said, "The fog is down. Just in time, the infiltrators almost robbed a Wayne Tech building. You don't have to be a genius to know that getting that kind of advanced tech is not good."
"Cheshire got away." batgirl remarked.
"We got these guys," said Kid Flash as the others arrived with Cheshire's team."
"That's something at least." Batgirl said she noticed.
"Cool! Souvenir!" Kid Flash said while picking up Cheshire's mask.
batgirl Nodded and left.
