Agent Knight - 01 - FoundUnknown01 (2024)

Chapter 1: Learning A New Truth

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Jason walked out of Bruce’s machine. The soft whirling and cranking in the background as it began to power off. Tim was sat in his office chair overseeing the final results of Jason’s “cure”. His face impassive as he verified the results, the soft white glow illuminating the eye movement behind his white lenses.

“It appears to have been successful. I’m not seeing any abnormalities that we haven’t already accounted for previously. Although…. your brain waves appear to be more active than normal.” Tim spoke, his voice slightly higher than normal indicating relief and curiosity.

Jason shrugged his right shoulder as he turned towards the door that led to the rest of Bruce’s compound. “That was the easy part Timbers. I’ve had a lot on my mind over the past few days.” Jason spoke, his voice held completely level and with no clear indication of his underlying turmoil.

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For the past three days, his heart hadn’t slowed from fight or flight. He knew that in all normal conditions he would choose to fight and power through whatever fear his mind or foe had conjured. But Bruce had turned that adrenaline from fight or flight into an unending fear response that his body just couldn’t cope with. His body wouldn’t respond as it should, and while he managed to save a little girl from a fiery death in her apartment while in the midst of his panic attack, he knew that any normal life for himself was done.

He needed to undo this torture, and that led him to finding the nearest public camera in one of Gotham’s intersections and beginning to sign: “extraction needed”. He found a black blanket, discarded near the intersection, and wrapped himself in it as he fell against one of the walls visible to the camera in an alleyway.

He continued his signing with his visible right hand as he focused on the breathing exercises Talia and Durca had taught him. They were meant to center him and redirect his anxiety into focus. But, there was far too much stimuli in the surrounding block that brought back unpleasant memories from before being adopted by Bruce. The breathing did absolutely nothing but further increase his anxiety as the walls closed in around him.

He came back to a hand being lowered softly onto his shoulder and an eyeful of blue and black. He didn’t hear anything being said and only just felt the insertion of a needle into the side of his bicep. That ignited a new wave of panic before the darkness consumed him completely.

When he awoke again, his panic attack began anew as he was taken, again, to a place without his permission. The panic didn’t leave as he began to identify those around him. Dick was in his suit pacing back and forth, a phone held to his ear as he talked to someone on the other end. Tim and Barbara, were huddled by the motley of screens on the right hand side of the room. Reviewing the results of some test on him he’d guessed. Cass was perched on his left side, trying to get him to acknowledge some sort of relaxation exercise. He couldn’t see Damian, Steph, or Duke anywhere in the room.

A second prick pierced the fog of panic as Tim had crossed the room to inject another chemical into the vein of his neck. Jason felt his heart rate start to slowly decline back to reasonable levels as the drug took effect.

“Relax Jay. We’re already working through the data. Just try to focus on staying calm and present.” Tim provided as he cast a small smile, returning to the monitors.

Nothing was discussed or exchanged as Jason laid back and restarted his breathing exercises. He was grateful for that small mercy as he was worn out by the constant fear response of his body and didn’t want to chance a possible relapse while the drug did its work.

That relapse occurred the second Rose stormed into the room though. She wasn’t yelling or screaming, and her face seemed to have slipped into a blank mask. Jason felt his heart rate begin to climb. But he couldn’t make sense of why. Rose and him had been nothing but great to one another. Everyone else in the room didn’t elicit this type of response. It only seemed when his eyes slid over her, that he felt the increase in heart rate and the beginning of the flight or fight response.

Jason wasn’t an idiot, contrary to what most of the batfamily seemed to think. He ran Bruce in circles when he came back and toppled long held criminal empires in weeks by himself. He may not have the detective and technology knowledge of Barbara and Tim, but he could operate completely independently with far less resources than them. He was also extremely familiar with the human body. The only one that surpassed him was Stephanie and her medical degree studies. Steph, was practicing medicine to help and cure. Jason learned how to break and extract during his time in the League.

So, when he figured out exactly what was happening every time he looked at Rose. The panic attack returned in full force and honestly he probably would have had one anyway.

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“Tim, could you send Rose in for a few minutes? We need to talk…. Alone.” Jason asked as he continued to stare at the door. He didn’t know why he felt he had to tack on the “alone” portion of his question, but he knew that this was a conversation between Rose and him. Tim looked up from his console. Lenses slightly narrowed as he analyzed his brother. He quickly determined that this was not meant to be his or anyone’s business, as Jason seemed to be burning a hole in the door with his stare.

“Of course, I’ll be outside getting the others if you need me.” Tim answered as he stood up from his chair and walked toward the door.

Seconds passed and Rose slipped into the room, closing the door behind her. As she turned, her eye caught Jason’s and it was as if a mountain had been lifted off her chest. She crossed the room and threw her arms around Jason’s chest. Her head nestled underneath his chin as she fought to not breakdown into tears. Jason returned the hug with just as much ferocity. “Hey.” Jason spoke softly, his voice slightly cracking with the emotion built up in his throat. Rose shifted back and rearranged her hold to around his neck so she could look into his eyes.

“Hey.” The word tumbled out of her mouth. Just as raw and watery as his.

Jason just stared at her, his expression softening into something only she and a select few others ever got to see. “I know this past week has probably been nothing but hell for you and I’m sorry. I’m also sorry I missed meeting at our usual spot even though I promised to see you there. And I’m so so sorry that it has taken me this long to say I love you Rose.” Jason spoke. His eyes never breaking from Rose’s and hands not leaving her sides.

Rose’s breath hitched. They had just talked in the park about friendships and relationships while waiting for an informant. That was 3 days ago, before all this crap with Batman. She realized that she didn’t have very many friendships outside of them dating during that conversation. She knew that the last year had been building to something and had made him promise to meet her at their usual meeting spot to talk further. She waited for five hours on that gargoyle, until Nightwing called her out of the blue.

She was scared. She knew this was coming and still she was unprepared. They had very similar backgrounds, never trusting anyone initially and being at best aloof to strangers. Relationships of any kind were treasured and loyalty almost assured for anyone willing to stick around and befriend one of the two vigilantes. To go beyond the idea of someone being a friend and into the realm of partner was a terrifying prospect.

Jason had trusted Bruce and it had just ended with the man he had thought of as a father kidnapping and altering his body chemistry to never experience anything other than fear. Adrenaline is present when you workout, when you don’t eat enough, when you look at the one you love…. To change the body to only register fear in response to adrenaline was a torture that Rose couldn’t have thought of or imposed on anyone, much less someone who was considered her son. That wasn’t even to speak of the beatings Bruce had dealt out a few years back after Cobblepot’s lasik eye surgery and Damian’s death from the Court of the Owls.

Rose had her own problems with her father. The man was absent most of her life. Only to return out of the blue and inspire the type of admiration that caused her to agree to his idea of putting kryptonite in place of an eye, knowing it caused cancer. The discovery of that betrayal might’ve as well destroyed any form of relationship Rose could’ve built going forward with anyone. Yet, still she forced herself to communicate with her father. His approval was still worth something to her, and they had been getting better in the recent months.

But she and Jason had built something in the prior year that was something she’d never thought she’d have. They were completely loyal to one another, and would often just exist together when they stayed at each other’s place. Jason would often read with his head on her lap as she watched TV or YouTube videos. Both solitary activities, but they didn’t feel as alone with the other being so close. Missions didn’t feel as long and any challenges seemed more… fun with the other cooperating on the issue. It wasn’t always great and they did fight, but they worked damn hard on communication.

Rose steeled and stilled herself. Gathering the courage to look into Jason’s eyes. “I love you too, Jay.” And she truly did. This would change everything going forward. But she couldn’t help but think that after everything, she deserved this. Jason deserved this, and so much more.

Jason leaned forward, capturing her lips with his. He poured everything he had into the kiss, with Rose responding in-kind. He didn’t know how long they were locked in that moment. Just him and her, with the rest of the world forgotten. But, when they broke he couldn’t help but think that the kiss hadn’t lasted nearly long enough. He leaned his forehead against hers and stared into her eye, the dumbest and happiest grin he’d had in years plastered to his face. Rose could only smile her radiant smile back at him, a small tear trail flowing from her right eye.

“Rose, I know we’ve come a long way but I want to go so much further.” Jason whispered thoughtfully with an undercurrent of care so rarely heard. “I’ve been on this earth for Twenty-three years and only six of those I consider to be good and happy years. Three of those years were with Bruce and Alfred. They may not have been the best years, but in retrospect they were far better than any right I had to have. One year was me getting to train with Talia, the League, and the all-caste. I owe umi so much for everything she did to keep me safe and give me a better future.”

It was now that Rose noticed the intensity of his gaze change. Jason had always looked at her like she lit the stars in the skies, but now it was as if his whole world revolved around her. She knew this feeling really well. As she was looking back at him, just as intensely. “The last two years with you have been the best of my life. I know we’re still figuring it out, and it’s only been a year of dating. But I want you to know, I’m here for the long haul if you’ll have me.” Jason spoke so earnestly and honestly with fear backlighting his eyes. These relationships had always been met with later betrayal and deep disappointment for the young man, who had grown up far too soon.

“Jason, I don’t want you for the long haul. I want you for everything.” Rose answered. The love in that statement, evident in her gaze. Rose only had one question, which she whispered out hesitantly “What do you want to do now Jay?”

Jason’s gaze never faltered, and his smile returned with a force he hadn’t experienced before. “I want to try to be happy, Rose. I want to experience that with you, every step of the way. I want to get out of Gotham and live beyond Red Hood. I want everything too.” Jason answered in a whisper, just as emotional as her confession.

With that answer laid at Rose’s feet like an offering to a goddess. Rose threw herself forward and engaged in a kiss that could have wiped out an entire city were the passion it contained weaponized. The kiss lasted an eternity again with Jason and Rose blind to all distractions as they reveled in one another. Eventually they broke again and Jason asked the question that would be the official start to his third life. “Rose Wilson, will you run away with me? Anywhere you want to go and anything we want to do. I want to have something new and build it with you.”

Rose looked back at the man she knew would move mountains and stars just to see her smile. The man that had just asked for something so intimate and intense, but also so terrifying. “I want a chance at normal, Jay. I’ll follow you anywhere.” Her smile lighting up the room around them.

Chapter 2: Behind Closed Doors

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Dick was concerned. His little brother had just spent the last three days with a heart rate above 130 bpm constantly. To further exacerbate issues, it seemed like no one could figure out what triggered him everytime he woke up and took in his surroundings. Hell, they had even asked Cass what she thought he kept seeing when he looked at them. Her response of “fear” was far from helpful, but the look on her face indicated she was just as in the dark as the rest of them.

One good thing out of this whole mess was seeing Rose’s softer and human side. The first day she had all but marched in, had the team concerned that they were going to have to run protection on Bruce. An unappealing idea at the moment to everyone but possibly Damian. But within seconds of her entering the room Jason’s heart rate increased again as he looked between Dick, Cass, Rose, and Barbara. It then skyrocketed to a height they didn’t know was possible, even with the Lazarus Pit. After that, Jason was sedated and Rose hadn’t left his side. No one seemed to notice her doing anything with him. Just sitting in the room, watching TV or reading a book. (Duke was the only one in the group to notice it was Pride and Prejudice and kept that to himself).

Even in his sleep, they couldn't get his heart rate down after that. It was stressful to say the least and Tim’s cure couldn’t come soon enough. Just a few moments ago Tim had left Jason alone with Rose in the machine room and Dick was beside himself in concern. Five minutes turned to ten and then to fifteen. Suddenly the door opened slightly and Rose poked her head out. Across the room on the couch, Cass had stilled and stiffened with eyes blown wide. Beside her, Steph immediately noticed her best friend’s reaction and turned to see what Cass was seeing. Noticing Rose standing against the door looking over toward Dick. Her face was tear stained and her eye was so red you could see it across the room. Steph’s jaw fell open. She was aware of Rose’s reputation and knew that short of cutting her arm off, she’d never cry in front of them.

“Can we have five of the tablets you have?” Rose asked as if she didn’t look like someone ran over her puppy with a lawnmower. Dick’s brain reengaged shortly after that.

“Um… ya no problem. But are you ok? Did something happen?” Dick rambled out only to have his brain go back on vacation when Rose, Rose Wilson, smiled a smile so radiant and happy that Dick was concerned Clayface had upped his acting game.

“Everything is fine, we just need to hash out a few things.” Rose answered as she grabbed an extra office chair next to the door and pushed it into the room.

Barbara walked by Dick with a stack of the requested tablets. Her face seemingly calm. Dick knew her better though and saw the completely lost expression buried under that serene facade. “Thank you. You all should probably relax, sleep, or do something. He won’t leave without checking in. I, however, will probably leave after we get this hashed out.” Rose spoke as she took the tablets and closed the door.

Steph lasted all of two micro seconds before spinning on Cass and blurting out, “What was that! I’ve never heard of her being emotional in front of anyone. What did Jay do?!”

Cass, ever the silent and thoughtful one glanced, down for a few seconds. Her eyes shifting left and right quickly as if reading a book. Her mind seeing the conclusion based off Rose’s body language, but struggling to connect the dots to prove out that ending. She knew her brother hid things from the family. Hell, he practically made a sport of it. The amount of times he’d show up in the cave, manage to never answer any of their questions and/or have completed a case that the rest of the family just found out about was staggering. It was down this hole that Cass realized, no one in their family knew any more about him than what they had discovered through their own investigation (stalking) or third-party accounts (Kori when Dick visited the Titans).

“Need to see Jason.” Is all Cass said when she finally looked up from her review of the minimal evidence.

“Is it bad? Did he hurt her?” Steph asked with trepidation. She and Jason had really started getting along in the recent years and if she were being honest, he was the big brother she wished she had. Dick was great as a brother and could always comfort her with a hug and a few well meaning words. Jason, was the exact opposite of everything Dick is. He would tell you the truth, no matter if it hurt. He’d tell you exactly how you screwed up and where you probably should have noticed the screw-up. As harsh as it seemed to be so blunt, he would immediately offer solutions, be a willing ear and shoulder to cry on, or offer to take care of it for them. He’d take shots meant for her and the other Robins on patrol because he saw them as kids no matter how close they may be in age. He would grumble about bleeding out on his couch or showing up unannounced, and immediately start stitching them up, preparing a meal, and readying the guest room because, “Blondie, I don’t sleep much normally. I definitely won’t if I know I sent you out with twelve stitches to run across rooftops.”

Jason was a surly, temperamental bastard. But if it came down to throwing himself on the line so she and the “kids” could see tomorrow his only question was where and how to make sure he survived to do it again. She may not know what Jason and Rose’s relationship was, but she knew he’d never hit or belittle a woman. Jason was extremely thoughtful, polite, and respectful when it came to women around him. He also saw his father’s interactions with his mother and vowed to never live in a world where he became his father. Stephanie wouldn’t want to live in that world either. Jason saw her for her and helped her improve when everyone else just criticized without offering help. His training had pushed her leaps and bounds ahead of what Batman’s had. He had the worst life out of all the family besides Cass and maybe Damian. Yet he still worked to better the world around him. It may be mostly out of spite for the world at large, but it’s hard to not cheer for him everytime he gets knocked down only to come up swinging.

Cass’s head snapped to Steph unnaturally fast. Her eyes searing a hole into her head. Cass’s expression conveying the disgust and disappointment that Steph would even entertain the idea of Jason hurting Rose, “He’d never hurt her.” Cass answered with complete certainty. She may not have all the facts, but she knew THAT without question. Steph looked down toward the floor, hating herself for getting caught up in the moment and blurting out any sort of question of him hurting her after having been around Jason for more than a few years now.

“Is it bad?” She repeated the first part of her question more quietly and lowley.

Cass had lessened her stare and answered, “Depends”. Which had Dick and Barbara staring at the two of them wondering, much like Steph, what that meant. Cass noticed the stares and decided to clarify, “Depends on Jason and depends on how you feel about Rose.”

“Well I don’t mind Jason, but I haven’t talked with Rose yet.” Answered Duke as he rounded the corner into the main living space with Damian in tow. He had just caught the tail end of the conversation but was curious as to what had happened to prompt any sort of discussion of Rose and Jason.

“How has Todd disgraced his and our names now? He has only been awake for twenty minutes.” Damian ground out beside Duke. Tim brought up the rear of the group as he had left to make sure Duke and Damian would be present for when Jason made his appearance.

Cass’s eyes swiveled to Damian and regained the glare she had sent at Steph earlier. “You will be polite to her.” Damian merely raised an eyebrow in response.

“Rose had asked for five tablets, but she looked like someone just shot her puppy and then threw it into a wood chipper. The strange part was she was smiling like….. I’ve never seen her smile like that.” Dick responded, with the last part trailing off like he had stumbled his way onto a path for the answer.

Damian, being nonplussed by these events simply stated, “So, she’s had a mental break. Dealing with Todd can lead to these things.”

“Damian!” Dick, Cass, Steph, Barbara, and Tim all shouted in unison. Duke was too lost in thought to even entertain the idea of listening to the conversation at this point. He and Jason had a pretty good relationship. Jason appreciated that Duke saw vigilante work as a job and worked in the safer daylight hours. But as Duke thought back he noticed that Jason seemed to have mellowed out over the course of the previous year. Duke had originally thought it was because of Roy Harper’s death, and was a symptom of possible depression. He had told Bruce what he thought and immediately learned that lesson of never telling Bruce anything about Jason… ever. Even more so in light of recent events.

Duke had tuned back into the conversation to catch the closing remarks of Damian and Dick’s argument. “Todd is at the best of times unstable and unpredictable. While father’s method of rectifying this issue was…. immoral. It had to be done.” Damian spouted.

Duke could feel the temperature of the room drop. He didn’t even know how they had gotten to this point, but that was just… wow. “I am so disappointed in you.” Dick responded, the disgust evident on his face.

Duke took a quick glance around the room and saw that Barbara had retreated to the computer again and Cass was standing with a look of…. maybe he should move in the next twenty seconds. Steph was also standing now and had her hands on Cass’s shoulders in a placating manner, while shooting glares of her own at Damian.

“I think you need to go cool down and think about what you just said.” Tim said as he grabbed Damian’s left arm and dragged him away from the common room. Cass sat back down, eyes boring a hole in the wall where Damian just was.

Duke walked over toward the couch, grabbing Steph’s shoulder on the way across. “Why don’t you take Dick and help Babs with whatever she’s working on or go and get some coffee and food for everyone? I think we need a breather.” Steph nodded in response and headed off toward the duo. A plan forming to extort some free food from the couple. But not before sharing a mournful glance with Cass that was met with hardened steel and disappointment. Duke crouched in front of Cass, a smirk on his face that confused Cass as there wasn’t anything funny going on at the moment.

“I knew the favorite had a favorite. I just didn’t think it would be Jason.” Duke answered the unspoken question. Cass blinked and then a smile started to form on her lips.

“Not about favorite. About…” Cass paused trying to find the right word. “Rose was happy. Like….” Cass continued but was cut off by Duke, understanding that metaphors weren’t easy to Cass.

“Like someone just promised the world to her for the first time in her life?” Cass went wide eyed again and shook her head yes. “I think she and Jason just got very serious.” Duke said with a small smile on his face. Cass co*cked her head to the side at him in silent question. “It means that their relationship just went from either friends to dating, dating to committed, or committed to marriage.” Duke answered, his own mind trying to draw on the minimal facts he had to form a picture.

It was at this moment that the door opened again and Rose was seen giving a bright smile back into the room by Cass and Duke. By the time she turned and realized she had an audience, the smile had collapsed into her usual smirk. Rose started toward the hallway Duke had just come from, throwing a wave over her shoulder, “I’ll see you all later, I have some work to get started on.”

“Rose!” Dick had called from across the room. Rose paused and glanced back at Dick who was finishing throwing on a jacket. Duke predicted food in his immediate future. “Please don’t go after Batman. We will handle it.” Dick requested, a pleading look in his eyes.

“Of course not Dick. That will be entirely your team’s problem.” Rose responded as she continued her path out of the room.

Before Rose had reached the hall, a hand had reached out and gripped her right wrist. Rose immediately tensed as her eye snapped to Shiva’s daughter on the couch. “Thank you, and I’m happy for you both.” Cass supplied with the most sincere look on her face.

Rose leaned down so they had privacy. “You don’t have to thank me. He and I take care of each other…. We always will.” Rose said as she stood back up and made her way down the hallway.

A few minutes later Jason stepped out of the room. A bundle of four tablets held under his left arm and the fifth out in front him as he re-read a document. Snapping his head up, he surveyed the room as he made is way over to the meeting table. “Blondie and Dick, could you go and get some coffee and food. We have some discussions we need to have, documents to sign, and logistics to iron out.” Jason spoke as he laid the tablets on the table and turned to the clock on the wall. “Let’s meet at 10:00. Its about an hour from now and will let you two get some donuts before they run out for the day. I’m going to shower and change. Tell the rest of the horde the plan.” Jason called over his shoulder as he stalked out of the common room.

The rest of the room barely processed what he said. They have never, in all their years of knowing him, seen him that relaxed. With small little smirk that might as well have been a maniac grin.

Chapter 3: Liquidation Pt. 1

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Jason had re-entered the common room after his shower and noticed that everyone seemed to have cleared out. The only one was Babs in her chair, plucking away at a keyboard. Probably monitoring the situation out on the streets. Jason elected to continue his work on the tablet he had been reviewing earlier, and settled into the center chair at the table.

He was reviewing the market rate for all his apartment buildings across Gotham, setting up a deed transfer, and listing the various assets he was going to give the team. He was also trying to figure out the logistics of moving all his equipment, furniture, and tech into secure storage. That part was surprisingly easy. All he had to do was quickly call and ask Kori if she could get Raven to teleport all his stuff into several shipping containers he had bought across the country. The containers had been a paranoia driven endeavor after Bruce slit his throat open, but he knew supply caches were always useful and they would be too much of a hassle to sell.

Raven had readily agreed. In so long as she got four dozen of her chosen cookies a month for one year after he settled down. Jason was convinced he could probably bribe anyone with Alfred’s recipes. So, Jason told her he’d let her know when he was ready to move a safehouse and have her over to oversee the move.

In the meantime, he sent Rose ahead to start packing up their favorite safehouse and researching where she wanted to live. He had a running bet in his head that it would probably be in some remote area of the US, probably by a mountain, and would entail a large isolated house. He and Rose weren’t exactly people persons and they enjoyed being isolated together over any other activity. He found himself far more drawn to the idea than he thought he’d be.

He was interrupted in his task as he noticed a shadow slide into the chair across from him. Cass had arrived silently as she always did, but she seemed to have a large smirk on her face. “I’m glad I’m awake too, Cass.” Jason supplied as he resumed his transfer of assets. He was met with a light “Hm” in response. Before he could start to unravel that distinct lack of response, he heard bickering emanating from the hallway that could only indicate the return of Dick and Steph.

“Sixteen donuts, are you trying to starve us out!”

“That’s two for everyone and will make us a bit healthier. Plus, we haven’t been eating super well since this whole thing started and I don’t want anyone to fall out of shape.”

“We run across rooftops, punching people in the face, while covered in Kevlar. How are we supposed to fall out of shape?! Also, sixteen. Why not get two dozen? It cost us more to get less!” Steph screeched as she entered the room carrying two trays of coffee.

Steph set the coffee down with a scowl as she looked up to resume her tirade. Dick carefully set two boxes of donuts next to the coffee. Hmm… his last week in Gotham and he was about to witness a murder. One not caused by him surprisingly. He’ll call that progress.

Deciding that he’d continue his long, drawn out torture of the batfamily. Jason helpfully asked, “How many donuts did you get?” As he finished formatting his spreadsheet and sharing it with the other tablets on the table. Dick glared at him, while Steph was standing, arms crossed, trying to turn Dick into a pile of ash. But, before that inevitable bloodshed could begin, the rest of the horde filed in.

They quickly grabbed whatever donuts they could get their hands on as they situated themselves around the table. Tim, Steph, and Duke to Jason’s left and Barbara, Dick, and Damian to his right. Cass was still smirking across from him and he swore he saw the gears in her head turning with some unspoken knowledge. Jason’s thoughts were interrupted again when Tim loudly slammed the tablet he had grabbed on the table. He was looking at Jason, analyzing every movement he made, as if it would hold the key to some new puzzle Jason had given him.

“You're fine.” Tim spoke as a statement and reassurance to some unfound danger.

“I am, and this has nothing to do with the past week.” Jason responded coolly. Trying to head off any sort of argument that the past week wasn’t indicative of the last few years. Truthfully, he should have done this years ago. He didn’t have a reason then. As he was a ghost inhabiting the name of some dead kid, and thought he could make use of whatever time he had been gifted to make Crime Alley better. But, every step forward was two steps back. Especially after deciding to forgo killing to try and be part of the family. The only thing the last week had shown him was that he had unconsciously chosen what he loved more than the dysfunctional mess in front of him. He didn’t hate them, and he loved every second he had around them. But it seemed every compromise was from him. Every decision questioned or attacked with little background of the facts. Further, they represented a danger that Bruce would find some invisible line that Jason had crossed and he would be launched into Arkham again. He was tired of living with the guillotine hovering over his neck.

“Those are the current market rates of my buildings across the city. I’ll be relocating my stuff out of them within the week and I’m offering most of them at 15% below market. Wayne industries would have cheap, semi functional buildings to begin a new housing project. Repair and maintenance should be minimal to get them back in working order. It’s a good deal if the project can be maintained long term.” Jason spoke. This prompted the others around the table to scramble and review the contents of the tablets. Steph quickly stole Tim’s and immediately blanched at the assets next to her name. More so the market rate and cost to her.

“I can’t take this.” Steph said trembling. Her skin had lost all its color.

“You can and you will.” Jason returned firmly, yet kindly.

He had given her his penthouse near her campus. It was in a safe part of town and would be an excellent first apartment for the med student when she began her internships. He hadn’t told her, but he also included an SUV, the furniture, and all her medical books for her next semester. He had already canceled her order without her knowing. He may have also paid off her student debt up to now. She could handle the senior year on her own. It would give her incentive to find work and start helping people.

Duke was wide eyed at the list before him. He’d been given an apartment just outside Crime Alley, with instructions that the surprise in the garage was for him and Steph. They could figure out which belonged to who. But that wasn’t what surprised him the most. “The Elaine/Gnomon Fund”. Meant to fund treatment for victims of Gotham’s rogues. He was trying so hard to keep from breaking down.

Cass had gently pried the tablet away from Steph and froze at the item listed on her tab. “Cassandra’s House of Ballet and the Gifted”. The description explained that the ballet classes would be used to fund speech therapy for Gotham’s inhabitants. There was an address, bank account, and potential staff listing all contained within. She could only stare across the room at Jason. She was overjoyed at the gift he was giving, but felt a sharp stab of fear of what these gifts meant.

Damian meanwhile had opened his tablet and was reading his tab. It was a plot of land outside of Gotham with blueprints and recommended builders listed next to it. It took him a few seconds to recognize that the blueprints were for a shelter meant to hold stray cats, dogs, and of all things birds. The shelter would only inhabit part of the sprawling acres of land, as the rest would be considered an outdoor play area for the dogs. Another large indoor area of the blueprints indicated an inside play area. It was split into separate large rooms to allow the cats a chance to roam, and the dogs an inside retreat. Finally, individual and large aviaries completed the shelter. There were also recommended full time employees listed, with accompanying backgrounds and resumes. Also included was an expense listing that broke down his available funds. This gift had only one condition, which was to prioritize volunteer initiatives for the local orphanages and Crime Alley residents.

Damian tried to maintain his calm facade as the tablet began to shake in his hands. He could only pray that Todd got to his request quickly. This was too much.

Dick and Barbara had their tab combined. Dick’s had a listing of instructors and an address of a gym. It featured interior shots of the gym and concept art of the renovation that would be completed to turn the aging gym into a tumbling and trampoline center. It had a few suggested programs. The one that caught his eye and caused him to begin breaking down was titled “The Flying Grayson’s course”. A listing of his and his family’s acrobatics broken down by skill level for children up to serious performers.

Barbara wasn’t much better as Jason had donated a large sum of money to the library she used to work at. On the condition it be used to complete an expansion and renovation. One part of the renovation was named Lian and Jason’s corner. It was placed directly in the corner of the library that Jason would hide away in when he came to visit as a child. The expansion was for a tutoring program that would be used by the local orphanages to help children catch up to their peers and try to give them the best chance at a college education. The library would be renamed to the “Gordon Library” in honor of her and her father’s dedication to the city at all levels. Jason was giving children the same opportunity he had so desperately needed when he was a child, and at the same time paying all the work she did with him forward.

“What is this?” Tim asked as he continued to stare down Jason.

“For you, this is a collection of your parent’s archeological discoveries and related pieces that will be traveling the country titled “The Drake’s Exhibit of Discovery”. The other properties are going to be bought by Wayne Industries, or you, to fund what I’m calling my new life fund. I’m spending the rest of this week with Rose and packing my gear into storage.” Jason responded unwaveringly.

“I want out. I talked with Rose and we have decided to try something new. This is me liquidating unneeded assets, while doing something worthwhile with them besides lining my pockets. It’s also my tribute to you all for the time we spent together. I’m leaving Gotham. As I finally got my head on straight and I can’t be around you or this city as it triggers too many conflicting emotions. I guess it will also buy your silence. I will not have Bruce coming anywhere near Rose, nor what we decide to do with our lives. I love you all, but that’s not enough anymore.” Jason spoke clearly and decisively.

The entire table burst into a series of pleas and exclamations.

“We’ve been getting better. Don’t let this week dictate your path going forward!”

“Jason, this is too much. I couldn’t ever hope to pay you back or even measure up to this!”

“Crime Alley is your turf! I don’t think I can measure up or be taken half as seriously! My colors will have them calling me the Bumbling Bumble Bee within a week!”

“It was enough when we worked to become brothers after the tower!”

“Todd, we can discuss these plans after we have dealt with father, and can sit down to a civil discussion all together.”

“You don’t have to burn this bridge. Especially, since we all still want you here.”

The only one who hadn’t said anything during this pandemonium was staring across at him. Her eyes indicated she already knew the outcome and hated being able to see it. “Is this what you want?” Cass spoke softly after everyone else had quieted down.

“I think it’s what I need, Cass. I’ve been nothing but a ghost since I came back. It’s had a lot of advantages, but the major downside is I don’t exist. I want to exist….. I have a reason to exist.” Jason said. He was never this open, it was worth it. If it meant he left this room with a chance at living again.

“I like her. She’s good for you, and you for her.” Cass said earnestly. Jason just smiled in response.

Cass then tapped the check box at the bottom of the tab and added her signature. The rest of the table just stared at Jason.

“Jason, I don’t need this. I can’t accept it.” Steph strangled out brokenly.

“It’s not about need Blondie. It’s about giving you the best opportunity to outdo the rest of us. It’s not charity. It’s an investment in your future. I only make worthwhile investments, and you are at the top of my portfolio.” Jason responded in his level tone. Stephanie couldn’t speak, his faith in her was just too much. She tapped and signed the tab, knowing that he just gave someone so much like him the life he wanted before Ethiopia.

“The Bumbling, Bouncing, Bee of Crime Alley. It has a nice ring to it. But I think you’ll find the locals respect locals. You and Steph will do great. You know you have a great life ahead of you. Make sure you keep Steph on that track too.” Jason said while meeting Duke’s panicked look. “It’s just a job, and shouldn’t be worth everything else.” With that Duke quickly signed, fearing the oncoming breakdown.

“Todd, I have no need for such a project or building. You shall postpone all your machinations and wait till we have returned father to normal and discussed these plans as a group.” Damian spoke, trying to regain some semblance of control over the situation.

“It’s not for you. It’s for the kids of Crime Alley. The stray dogs, cats, and birds that need a home, and the families that haven’t met their furry or feathered family member.” Damian didn’t have an argument against that. He turned to Dick in silent question of what he should do. Dick offered him a tight smile and nodded. He signed a second later.

Dick swallowed the lump in his throat, “Jaybird…”

“It was supposed to be a wedding present. I couldn’t get the gym’s paperwork done in time.” Jason shrugged. “I’ve finally started looking for what you two found a long time ago. Sign the tab.” Dick turned to look at Barbara, but was met with the tablet being passed to him. Her signature was already filled out. His shortly followed.

“I’m not signing. I worked too hard to bring you back into this family.” Tim said as his lower lip trembled slightly. He knew that Jason did love them. But the last few years with Bruce had toppled that house of cards three times now. Jason didn’t deserve to have to pick up the pieces again.

“Tim, this is the best outcome. I get out of Gotham and start something new. Bruce gets his throne and control he’s been seeking since being 8 years old, and you and everyone won’t have to worry or deal with issues between me and him anymore.” Jason said as a sad smile adorned his face.

“That’s not what I want! You and I both know this is the end. You’re going to disappear into the world after this and the next time I see you, if ever, will be your funeral. I don’t want to lose my brother because Bruce is unable to say he loves you and doesn’t need to control you.” Tim strangled out.

“Tim, I don't know what will happen tomorrow, next week, or in a year. But I know whatever it’ll be, I’ll be happier away from here. I owe you something I couldn’t ever hope to pay back, but I’m not going through another situation where I’m left to pick up the pieces as Bruce f*cks off into the horizon. Sign the tab Tim.”

Tim attempted to plaster on a blank expression, but was undone by the tears running down his cheeks. He then turned and took a deep breath. With that the final tab was signed and Jason pressed the print icon. A series of contracts erupted from the printer across the room.

Jason strode over and collected his physical version of the contracts. He had a backup on a flash drive in his pocket, but he always enjoyed the security of paper. “I’m going to pick up my pack and head out. I’ll be here the rest of the week. Goodluck with Bruce, and thank you for giving me this.” Jason said somberly.

He left the common room, and grabbed his pack. Quickly stowing away the contracts, he slung the pack over his right shoulder and started toward the exit. He was intercepted about five yards from the door by a head of blonde hair, sobbing into his side as Steph hugged him as tight as she could. He returned the hug just as tightly. Eventually, he pried her head from his side and looked her in the eyes.

“You have nothing to live up to. You already do. I’m so proud and happy for you Steph.” Jason said as he gently broke the hug.

Steph, nodded and said, “Thank you for being the big brother I didn’t know I needed.”

“I’m a phone call away Blondie. Just let me know what you need, even if it’s just to vent.” With that and a small smile, Jason opened the door to the blinding sun and a new tomorrow.

Chapter 4: Liquidation Pt. 2

Chapter Text

3 Years Later

Jason was perched on the largest dune surrounding his target. A sandstorm had blown in the previous day and covered his hiding spot and him in a layer of sand. His new suit had protected him from the flying pellets, leaving minor paint scratches across the black armored plates that covered his back, arms, legs, and shoulders. He was completely invisible in the night of the Sahara Desert.

The Atropos armor was specially designed by him in combination with DARPA and Lexcorp. Its plates are a solid black with a special coating that prevents light from reflecting off the seemingly shiny metal. The undersuit that composed the second layer of the suit was a dark gray, meant to break up his silhouette in shadows and darkness. Both the plates and undersuit were composed of nth metal. The undersuit had been designed and created with new technology and manufacturing techniques Lexcorp had pioneered in its development of power armor. It was essentially full body armor that was light and thin enough to not impede the user’s movement in any way. The solid plates that covered this undersuit were considered to be a second layer of protection for the user. As, while the undersuit may never be pierced, the kinetic energy of impacting bullets could still cause internal bleeding and broken bones. Thus, the plates and undersuit were a part of an energy absorption system, designed by Luther himself to tank hits from Superman. The energy for these hits would be stored by the suit, gradually emitting a blood red glow between the plates as energy was stored up. In the daytime this glow would be intimidating, but at night….. It looked like the reaper himself had shown up to escort you straight to hell. The user could then capitalize on this stored energy to increase the power of their hits or clear areas out of hostiles by releasing the power into the ground.

Jason had further designed the gauntlets for close quarters combat. His left arm contains a foot and a half long blade that retracts and extends over the top of his hand with the aid of shrinking tech from The Atom. The blade was also made of nth metal as he wanted a weapon that could take on tough meta-humans that was integrated with the suit. His right arm held a holographic system that functioned similarly to a touch screen computer, along with a second blade. The computer was meant to assist with hacking, tactical planning, and security/surveillance. Both of his fists were lined with electrical projectors to release the stored up energy or convert it into electricity for weaker opponents.

But his favorite part of the suit was his custom helmet that took everything his old hood could do and improved it further. Gone were the glowing eye slots, seen as a structural weakness. In their place was a solid surface that looked like a void to its enemies that indented slightly to indicate the position of his eyes. Further, his helmet could split into two parts. The lower portion of the helmet was integrated with the undersuit and acted as a half mask. Covering his mouth and nose while still feeling like wearing nothing at all. It could be paired with custom goggles that integrated with the mask to provide a HUD. This would protect his identity, while providing possible cooling through the top of his head.

His current weapons were less high tech, but still extremely deadly. His signature 10mm Jericho pistols strapped to his thighs. Which connected to his belt that contained four additional clips for his pistols, six throwing knives, his solid black k-bar, a grapple gun, with backup grapples, and room for four grenades. His chest armor was modeled after Bruce’s first model of the Beyond suit. Its armored plates containing plenty of sliding points and openings to allow better flexibility. His addition to Bruce’s armor concept was several hard points incorporated with the armor to allow for quick snapping of mag pouches and shotgun shell holders. He also had his customized M4, with an extended barrel, foregrip, silencer, and canted red dot. The primary scope position was taken up by an acog sight that was fielding new technology to highlight enemies the user aimed at.

Between the armored boots ending at his knees, the military style cargo pants holstering his pistols, the armored chest and arms, and his helmet. It looked like the military had aimed for militarized Batman and ended up with the grim reaper. Overall, the Atropos armor was his magnum opus. It’s materials collected meticulously and its creation fully overseen by him. It vastly improved his survivability, and was the test bed for all future upgrades designed by him and DARPA. Cheaper, less protective versions made of titanium would be making its way to his fellow agents.

“Knight-01 to Specter 304, target sighted. Requesting QRF prep for extraction and Spooky 102 proceed to overwatch position. Friendlies will be marked with IR beacons.” Jason spoke quietly as he observed Mason Blood enter the largest building in his impromptu village. Mason was an up and coming member of the Church of Blood Cult. Named “Young Blood” by his fellow cult members, as he was the son of the current Brother Blood, Sebastian Blood, and was the most promising of the potential successors. Mason had planned and oversaw the mass kidnapping of American citizens abroad to be used in some repeated ritual to grant him strength. He caught the attention of the CIA after he took a highly placed asset in Turkey. Said asset was found… terminated along with several other victims three days later. The CIA passed this up to the Director of National Intelligence, Amanda Waller, who approved their request to utilize Agent Knight-01 for a liquidation mission.

Jason, readied his M4 and activated his IR beacon. He had already memorized the guard routes and noticed that the guards were extremely complacent. Most likely a by-product of the surrounding desert and boring monotony of the cult’s schedule, that only deviates for rituals. Moving to a crouch silently, Jason began his slow walk toward the village. His rifle trained on the man slowly walking the perimeter. The man had an AK-47 held loosely in his arms, his gait screaming hungover or tired. Jason ended his misery with one bullet to the head as he encroached upon the village. Only pausing slightly to place a second shot into the man’s heart.

Jason infiltrated the outer edge of the village. Slowly approaching the lit inner pathways. The entire village was devoted to worship of Blood and his teachings, so if he was caught out in the open the target could flee as his followers threw themselves into Jason’s meat grinder. An unacceptable outcome. With this, Jason paused quickly and ensured there were no prowling eyes between him and the alley next to Mason’s building. Assured that he was clear, he silently jogged to the darkness of the alley and returned his rifle to his back. Pulling his grapple, Jason climbed to the roof and quickly pulled one of the grenades from his belt. Pulling the pin and quickly activating the grenade, he ensured it had a clear sight line into the sky.

“Specter 304 has confirmation of the friendly building. Confirming Spooky 102 in overwatch position. Switching frequencies to Spooky 102.” The pilot of Specter 304 relayed, as her predator drone continued to circle high in the sky above.

“Spooky 102 has confirmation of IR beacon. Awaiting tasking, Knight-01.” The pilot confirmed to Jason as they entered the airspace and had the crew arm the various weapon stations.

“Confirmed Spooky 102. Streaming mission camera to your crew, along with designated targets for the first salvo. Trigger phrase is “Kali”. Confirm?”

“Trigger phrase confirmed. We await the call.” Spooky 102 confirmed as they planned their flight path to account for the first pass.

Jason re-equipped his rifle and gently opened the floor grate to the second floor of Mason’s building. Below him, two men appeared to be sleeping in opposite positions of the sparse room. An AK holstered near their beds. This must be part of Mason’s entourage of guards. He had five with him at all times, and these two must have been given leave to rest as Mason felt they would awake quickly in the face of an attack. Jason circled the grate, ensuring there were no other hidden threats in the room. He caught the glow of light emitting from the stairs, indicating Mason was still awake and working on something with the rest of his guards. Satisfied that the room was clear, Jason shouldered his rifle and fired 4 shots into the two sleeping men. One through the head and the second through the heart, they would never wake from their slumber.

“Kevin?” A voice echoed from the stairway. Jason quickly dropped through the grate and rolled into the half wall that separated the second floor from the stairs, holstering the rifle again as he did. He listened as heavy boots ascended the stairs toward him. He waited until the shadow of the man turned the end of the half wall and then struck. Like a viper, Jason spun around the man until he was directly behind him and with a quick pull of his right arm, snapped his neck. He slowly lowered and dragged the body into the darkened room to clear the stairs for maneuvering.

Activating his AR vision, Jason identified the remaining three targets below him. They seemed to be discussing something on the table in the middle of them. They were positioned so that they all had a line of sight toward the stairs but there didn’t seem to be any weapons within arms reach. All the rifles were laid to the side of the front door, ready to be picked up as they left the dwelling. Deciding that speed and accuracy would ensure the greatest odds of success, Jason pulled his right Jericho and approached the stairs.

He then slowly descended the stairs, his AR vision still on so he could track his targets below him. Reaching the bottom of the stairs, he confirmed the location of the targets one final time along with making sure he had a clear line of sight to the three men. He deactivated the vision and threw himself to the left, executing a roll and coming up in a crouch. Mason, as befitting his station, was in the center of the two men. All three where trying to react and pull the pistols they seemed to be holding in their waistbands. Their faces lit up in clear shock. Jason took aim and fired once. The left man’s head snapping back, the bullet carving a new valley in his head. Swinging his aim right, Jason shot Mason’s right side. Causing the man to spin into the shot as he fell towards the floor. Adjusting one final time, Jason’s final shot pierced the rightmost man’s head with a crack.

Not wanting to give Mason a chance to react, Jason rushed forward. His pistol aimed at Mason’s head as he turned the man onto his back. Mason starred up at the void that had entered the room silently and did away with his men.

“Red Crown to Knight-01. Further confirmation of the target is required. Current photos appear out of date.” Waller’s voice echoed over Jason’s com.

“What is your full name?!” Jason asked in his distorted voice. Mason appeared to be having trouble registering Jason’s order, fear etched on his face. Jason turned and fired a round into Mason’s left knee, eliciting a howl of pain from the cult member. “Name! Now!” Jason ordered again.

“Mason…. Blood.”

With that confirmation, Jason planted a third bullet between the eyes of the cult member. Crouching to get a blood sample, for later confirmation.

Before returning to the roof, he placed two more shots in the hearts of the guards that had died with Mason, and took quick photos of the documents laid out on the table. He finished with the interior of the building after putting one final shot in the head of the guard whose neck he had snapped. Once he was on the roof he holstered his pistol again and readied his rifle.

“Spooky 102, Kali.”

Seconds later the earth shook with the impact of a 105mm high explosive round that decimated one of the outlying buildings. It was quickly followed by the roar of 40mm rounds impacting the surrounding streets and buildings. Pounding holes into the hardened sand and buildings.

A second 105mm round had impacted another building by the time the cult had managed to respond. Men poured from the surrounding buildings, trying to get away from the obvious targets and into cover. Some attempted to fire upon the circling bird, only to be cut down by Jason’s precise fire from the rooftop. His fire was one of hundreds in the chaos, but he had the knowledge that his building was clear of any direct fire.

The AC-130 continued its slow circle, raining death down on the helpless cult. Buildings were reduced to rubble in seconds, and men were blown to pieces from the shockwave of exploding rounds. By the end of the first circle, the entire outer ring of buildings were burning ruins.

Jason had continued his rain of death down on the men closest to the building. His M4 piercing heads and hearts of men that thought they survived the first wave of punishment unaffected. “Spooky 102, level the rest of the buildings. You are free fire with the 40mm and 105mm.” Jason spoke as he reloaded on the rooftop.

“Acknowledged, Knight-01. Additional fire support incoming.”

As if sensing the impending impact the world quieted around Jason. Until it was shattered by the destruction of another building. What followed its destruction was a massive explosion of gunpowder and rounds cooking off. It must have been where the cult had an armory, Jason thought. He returned to his task of ensuring the destruction of the cult and leveled his rifle on a team of five men. Two dropped before they even knew they were under fire. The remaining three attempted to locate the shooter, spinning this way and that. Only one would live long enough to see the void balanced on their leader’s roof. Before the crack of a round silenced his thoughts forever.

“Knight-01, leveling complete. We’re not seeing any movement down there.” Spooky 102 informed Jason.

“Acknowledged Spooky 102. Ready the Vulcans and hold fire till I order. Confirmed?” Jason asked as he took stock of the situation.

“Confirmed Knight-01.” Jason turned to the destruction he had wrought and turned his helmet’s speaker’s volume to maximum.

“This is your only warning! Retreat now!” His distorted voice echoed over the rubble.

Slowly, movement began to emerge from the rubble. The inhabitants congregating into small groups and looking toward the horizon with hope in their eyes. Jason gave them ten minutes to prepare themselves and leave the perimeter of the village. The second the final man left the area of rubble that was once a village, Jason spoke into his com.

“Free fire”

xxxxxxxxxx

8 hours later

Sergeant Harvard was sweating through his camo gear as he sat in the passenger position of the humvee. He had been given orders to extract a CIA asset from the middle of the Sahara desert. A strange order and location. There wasn’t anything for miles besides some small village that had appeared in the previous months. Even stranger, when he asked about what sort of gear he could be expecting to extract the asset, he was told he had a Humvee, fifteen gallons of water, a driver, and four backup jerry cans of gas in addition to a standard combat load.

He had gotten the go ahead an hour ago to proceed with the extraction and was currently two mikes out from the village. As he and his driver, a nineteen year old private that had just finished maintaining the current humvee they were driving, approached the line of dunes that encircled the village, they noticed a man standing on the tallest dune. He appeared to be surveying the village at a distance, but that couldn’t be. He’s a spook. They’re meant to spy and not be detected. Yet this man just seemed out for a sightseeing adventure.

Harvard and the private stopped the humvee a few yards behind the strange man and dismounted. Up close the man was a specimen to behold. 6’3 with armor the color of the void. Only broken up by the mute dark gray of the under suit. He was also built like he was meant for war. Large broad shoulders and obviously sculpted muscle lying underneath. “Sir, we’re your extraction team.” Harvard rattled out as he walked up to the crest of the dune. The figure raised one finger in a signal of one second, still looking at the village.

Harvard had crested the hill and stopped cold in his tracks. His skin losing all its color and his blood running cold. The private was in no better state as his mouth hung ajar and skin became so pale you could see the veins underneath.

The village was gone. Every building was a smoldering rubble of charred rock. Bodies and body parts littered the ground. In the center, as if a monument to this great sin, stood the final building. Untouched besides bullet holes and knicks where flying rubble had impacted. A second later a large boom shattered the landscape and that solitary building was reduced to rubble like all the others around it.

“First liquidation mission?” The figure spoke with a tone that indicated he was smirking under the faceless visage he wore.

Chapter 5: Home Sweet Home

Chapter Text

Two Days Later

Jason was on his deck, enjoying his morning tea. It was the start of October, in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Which meant the rapid cooling of the days ahead and anticipation of the first snowfall. Rose had chosen the town for its relatively isolated position and small population. The town boasted a large ski resort that would be inundated with tourists in the winter months and the feel of an old western town in the summer. There were no towering skyscrapers or traveling gangs, adding to the idea of a small, neighborly community.

Rose and Jason had gone back and forth on whether or not to look up north, such as Alaska, for an isolated mansion to call their own. Rose’s argument was that Alaska would be more trouble than it’s worth. They’d be snowed in for months at a time and would constantly need to do chores and upkeep to keep any house livable. Jason’s counter point was they were already natural planners and would quickly find ways to complete chores efficiently while storing needed supplies. It was after driving through the Colorado mountains toward Jump City to visit Kori and the other Titans that the couple fell in love with the small towns and valleys of the state.

From there it was a matter of finding the right house and town to call home. They settled on a 10,000 sqft, rustic mansion slash cabin that overlooked the ski resort up in the mountains of Steamboat Springs. It was just isolated enough to be left alone, but not so far from civilization that food and other necessities would be an issue. It featured an outdoor terrace with a bar, covered outdoor sitting area with a fire pit, and a rock stairway leading to a private hot tub. An outdoor deck wrapped around the side of the second floor for panoramic views of the mountains, and contained a second covered sitting area. Finally, a four car garage that was as close to a small showroom as one could get was attached to the first floor of the house.

The mansion itself was a six bedroom, eight and a half bath mix of the rustic cabin feel outside with modern home techniques inside. The family room had a large vaulted ceiling that could be overlooked by the third floor hallway. The gray stone that made up the fireplace extended from the floor to the ceiling, with enough room for an 88 inch TV and two large bookcases to either side of it. They had decided on a black sectional, coffee table, and blue patterned rug to fill up the space in front of the fireplace. Jason had a kitchen fit for a five star chef directly off the family room and a dining room that reminded him of the manor. He also had his own office/library, with a large oak desk and fully upgraded PC. Rose got her wine cellar, with a hidden doorway in the wall so they could store all their weapons. She affectionately named it the OPs center after decking it out with various computers, monitors, and weapons. They converted the first floor into a combination gym/entertainment area. Divided between the two large areas, which led to the outside terrace. Finally, most of the remaining rooms on the third floor were converted into guest rooms. Besides one room directly off to the right of their master bedroom. That room was a source of fear neither wanted to bring up as it meant unpacking a lot of baggage between the two of them and fully settling down.

Jason finished off the rest of his morning tea in a quick gulp as he meandered his way into the kitchen. He opened their large commercial fridge and began to grab the ingredients for a classic western breakfast skillet. After washing his hands, he began heating the cast iron skillet with a stick of butter. Once the pan was coated he dropped in the sausage and bacon to start to cooking. Turning both meats after a few minutes.

“We now go to Vicki Vale live in the North Atlantic. Where scientists have uncovered new elements that could lead to solving the world’s impending energy crisis. Vicki?” The news anchor rattled off on the TV to the right of Jason.

“That’s right David. Scientists have uncovered three previously unknown elements that when combined together create a supply of self sustaining energy.” Vicki monologues in the background, Jason tuning her out in favor of adding fresh peppers and onions to his pan.

It was half way through crisping up the vegetables that he felt two arms slide around his waist and a lithe figure curl against his back. “Morning Red.” Rose cooed.

“Morning Rosey.” Jason replied softly as he spun around to capture her lips in a soft kiss.

Breaking off from the kiss, Rose leaned back while emitting a small giggle, “Your hair looks like someone did it up with a leaf blower.”

“Probably the result of a good night’s rest. Won’t you say?” Jason grinned down knowingly.

Rose just smirked and looked over his shoulder at the pan. “How crisp do we want the vegetables?” Jason cursed and spun back around to the pan to keep the vegetables from burning. Rose just sauntered away with a small laugh as she prepared her morning coffee.

“Dad texted. He said they need you for a briefing Friday, and to come fully equipped. Something about meeting Eagle-1.” Rose informed Jason. Jason turned to Rose, a slight panic in his eyes mixed with confusion.

“Did it really say Eagle-1?”

Rose merely nodded in confirmation, as a grin grew on her face. “You’re in the big leagues now, Knight-01. No time for Ravager-01.” She answered with a faux pouting tone and smirk.

About a year into leaving Gotham and getting set up in Colorado, Slade had tracked them down with Waller. They explained they were pioneering a new initiative overseen directly by the President. That's purpose was to function as a special forces group outside the purview of congress. Its members were to be made up of the best men and women the country had to offer. Regardless of military or legal status. Slade was acting as a liaison between the potential recruits and initiative. He would later be a trainer for their agents. He had been given a full pardon and a handsome salary to be apart of the initiative. When Jason asked why not just stick a bomb in their necks and assign them to Task Force X, as it would be cheaper for the country, Waller said that Task Force X wasn’t cut out as a long term solution to the country’s problems. It was more of a stop gap to assure members of congress that the military had a plan to counter the JLA, besides nuking them.

This initiative would appear to be like a PMC. Utilized by the CIA and NSA for fully deniable missions, but would be completely funded through back doors and blank checks from the government. Its goal was to be the final line of defense against meta-humans and the country’s secret weapon to track down enemies of the state for elimination. When asked if they would join, the couple asked how their roles would function and the requirements of the position. They would effectively be likened to consultants. Taking missions as they were offered and being paid an agreed upon sum for each individual mission. It truly wasn’t all that different from their mercenary work. The difference was they had DARPA and the full support of the US military for missions, medicine, and R&D.

Jason and Rose agreed to join the initiative, in exchange for full pardons, Jason’s custom suit, assurances of no reprisals in writing should they leave or the initiative be terminated, and flexibility options for themselves as they didn’t want to get locked back down into back to back missions. Slade had only given a slight grin, while Waller smirked and said she’d be in touch.

After that, Slade had shown back up a week later, unannounced, with a team of men to install a private zeta tube in the OPs center. Jason and Rose oversaw the installation of the tech while trying to make small talk with Slade. It was easier than expected as they discussed their journey to Colorado and subsequent adjustments to living with one another full time. The entire time Jason could tell he was being judged and weighed by Slade. A slightly terrifying prospect if he didn’t know that Rose would probably tear Slade’s head off if he killed Jason. As soon as the installation was complete, Slade proclaimed that he’d start Jason’s expanded training the following Monday and entered the tube.

When he and Rose had emerged from the OPs center after that, they found they were the proud new owners of a blacked out, 2022 Ford Explorer. As no one had come to collect it after it sat in their driveway for a week. And true to his word, Slade portaled in the following Monday, shared a quick breakfast with the slightly surprised couple, and began Jason’s worst year of training ever.

Slade would never tell the kid this, but Jason excelled at everything thrown at him. He was already a highly skilled cqc combatant and expert marksman. But the kid out did himself time and time again. Forcing Slade to adopt new training routines and challenges. All of which would be put to use with the other agents Slade had to train. By the end of his training, Jason was as close to Cassandra’s abilities without the bonus of the sight, had Floyd Lawton’s aim, and a technical/tactical knowledge that nearly rivaled Tim’s and far outclassed Bruce’s respectively.

The biggest improvement though was Jason’s interactions with fellow agents. The league had discouraged interactions between him and full members, and Bruce’s emotional constipation made him the black sheep of the batfamily. Here, the other agents shared his world view and weren’t seen as psychopaths. Just ordinary men and women that answered the call. The validation made fighting the Pit so much easier as Jason didn’t have the constantly nagging feeling of being crazy due to his opposing views to Bruce’s. The Pit also got its bloodlust satisfied with his many missions, thus turning it into a honed knife that Jason wielded with deadly efficiency. It was a small wonder that he rose to be the top agent of “The Nemesis Initiative”. Named after a Greek goddess of retribution.

“Knight-01 will always have time for Ravager-01. She’s the only league he wants to be in.” Jason answered as he cracked open the six eggs he had ready into the skillet.

“That’s awful! I think we have to break up now!” Rose laughed as she started setting up the table.

“Damn, I was just starting to like you too. Had baby names and everything.” Jason snipped back without thinking. Rose froze across the room and Jason tensed, willing the skillet to finish faster.

“What are they?” Rose asked softly, not looking across at Jason.

“Catherine, Katie, or Rory for a girl. Thaddeus for a boy or Harper for both. How about you?” Jason asked, trying to relax his posture.

It took a few seconds, but eventually Rose responded. “I like Harper. It’d be nice to honor Roy and Lian.”

Jason checked that the eggs had begun to thicken, as he added cheese into the mix. He also lowered the heat to not burn them and buy him a few extra minutes. He then turned and walked over to Rose, pulling her hands away from her task of setting up the table.

Gently grasping both of her hands, rubbing calming circles into the top of her hands with his thumbs. Jason looked at her and spoke, “We’re just talking names. There’s no pressure for anything.”

Rose looked up at him, a searching gaze analyzing his face. “Is it bad that I want pressure?” She asked.

“Do you think we’re ready?” Jason countered as his mind cycled through his plans for a nursery.

“I don’t know. I know I want it, but I’m scared of turning into my parents. Besides, we aren’t married yet and that will be its own fisco.” Rose answered.

“Rose, I want it too. I promise, I’ll never let you turn into your parents if you promise to never let me become my dad.” Jason responded and ignored the marriage portion. He had a plan all set up. He was waiting for the first snowfall that stuck to the ground and had a permanent reservation at the 5 star restaurant overlooking the town and its mountains. The ring was in his office desk. Locked in a drawer and then another inner safe. He was going to propose just as the sun hit its low point, but before disappearing behind the mountains. It would bath the private table in a soft yellow light and highlight the picturesque landscape.

“I promise you’ll never be your dad. You’re already better than either of them ever were.” Rose countered while reaching up to deliver a kiss. “I’m not very hungry anymore Jay.” She stated slyly as she leaned away from him.

“It tastes better reheated anyway.” Jason shot back with a smirk. He quickly picked her up, eliciting a slight yelp then laugh from the assassin. Shutting off the burners and removing the skillet from the heat to cool, as he made his way toward the stairs.

He had a lot to do before meeting the President it would seem.

Chapter 6: Not the Justice League

Chapter Text

Friday

Jason navigated the halls of the White House with his…. escort. Taking in the rapid movement of interns and office workers as they busied themselves with running the administration. Many would pass by him with their faces in phones and documents, completely oblivious to the heavily armored and armed assassin. Others would look up and see the walking shadow and do a double take before staring after him as he passed. He must be the first Nemesis Agent to ever meet with the President. Or the first one ever to be seen meeting the President.

When he had zetaed to the White House, he expected to be met with five men in dark sunglasses and finely tailored suits. Then be told to disarm and come with them, as they beelined it through back hallways and entrances to the Oval Office. Instead he was met with a young woman, Evelyn, who was far too awake and perky for 9:00 am on a Friday. He was half convinced she was high on something, but quickly realized she had probably been downing coffee like it was water since she woke up. He’d seen her finish her large cup and then just hold it out like some random person would take it away. Which someone did as they passed by, not breaking stride at all. A few seconds later, someone else would pass by and just hand her an identical cup. Which she would take and start drinking immediately as if this was a completely normal pastime. He could only think Tim would die happy here. Overworked and over-caffeinated.

They had reached the door to the Oval Office by the time Jason had realized that:

Not one person had asked to confirm his identity. A mute point with the helmet and gear. But still something he expected.

That he still had all his guns, knives, grenades, and ammo as he was about to meet the President.

And Evelyn had been speed walking to get him to the office as fast as possible. As she seemed slightly out of breath indicating this wasn’t her normal morning.

It painted a picture in his mind of some sort of rapid deployment. He would probably be leaving straight from here. Which meant whatever mission they had, they were either desperate enough to offer any terms or knew he’d agree. He didn’t know which he liked better.

“I’ll be here when the meetings conclude Agent Knight. I’ve been instructed to give you this tablet to mark down any supplies you’ll need for your mission.” Evelyn spoke while thrusting a tablet toward him. Jason took the tablet, not liking that it was assumed he was already on mission, and walked through the door.

He was met by the sight of Waller and Slade sitting on opposite ends of the couch facing his door. A grimace carved on Slade’s face. While Waller had her usual blank look on with slightly narrowed eyes. Meaning she wasn’t fully on-board with whatever mission the President had. President Wright Jackson was a stout man. Built like he worked out but still enjoyed the finer things in life, like a robust palette. He was 6ft even and completely bald. His fair skin indicates he spent more time inside than out and about. A fair result of being President.

“Ahh, Agent Knight. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” President Jackson greeted Jason as the door closed behind him.

“Mr. President, it's an honor to meet you.” Jason responded while knitting his hands together behind his back in an at-ease position.

“I’m afraid I don’t have much time to properly meet my country’s top agent, as I’m sure you’ve noticed.” President Jackson said as he pulled a contract from his desk. “I have a dual asset protection mission up in the North Atlantic. I need an agent in place to oversee the protection of these assets while extraction teams ready proper containment for transport. You will also be working with a JLA consultant.”

“Respectfully sir, mixing Nemesis Agents with the JLA is inadvisable. We’re meant to be their executioners should it be needed.” Jason answered.

“I agree, but the stakes for this mission are too high and public to not bring them in. We’d send a fireteam of agents, but it’d be too difficult to explain away a group of highly trained individuals appearing from thin air to the JLA. Thus, we have elected to utilize our best agent with the cover of you being the first of a next generation of super soldiers. It’ll explain your abilities in the field and will push interest onto a possible genetic augmentation program that doesn’t exist. Instead of a growing group of assassins under the umbrella of the United States.” President Jackson explained.

“Your handlers have expressed strong refusal in this mission and argued that any JLA member will hamper your abilities in the field. Thus we have agreed on the following terms:

Double your usual rate regardless of mission success.

Seven R&D projects overseen by you for any specific weapons or gear you’d like to invest in. Along with zero charge for replacement and or repair of these weapons.

This repair and replacement statute will be applied retroactively to your current suit.

Should the JLA interfere with your methods and cause the mission to be a failure, you’ll be given an additional three R&D projects.

The JLA will not pursue any leads on you and your identity. Should your identity be discovered, they will never speak of it under threat of being charged with treason. This statute is non-negotiable and will be applied regardless of mission success.

Should the mission fail due to your actions, all above terms besides payment and identity protection shall be void.

It’s a good deal for one mission with a JLA member.” President Jackson outlined.

Jason paused, turning to Waller and Slade. “It's your initiative. I won’t risk the others without your go.” He stated.

Before joining his fellow agents he would have jumped at such an opportunity to bolster himself. But now, he was a part of an elite team that he was fully accepted in. Rose would also be impacted by this contract, as a lot of attention would be focused on him and his potential background. It could mean Bruce tracking him down to Colorado. He wouldn’t pass up such a deadly threat, even under the potential charge of treason.

“Take the contract. The mission is too important to the nation to risk not having some form of intervention by Nemesis. We’ll plant false leads and ghosts to throw off any investigation, in addition to keeping you out of the field for five months to let the heat die down. Worst case, we can “lose” a few supervillains here and there to distract them.” Answered Slade as he read the mission briefing.

“We’ll be acting as support from here. The containment chamber should only take three more days. We expect an attack prior to this though. The research station isn’t militarized and presents the easiest opportunity for attack.” Waller explained. Her eyes alight with possibilities known only to her. Appearing fully onboard in stark contrast to her earlier look.

Jason hesitated for another moment. The money wasn’t the main draw. He had more than enough from his previous missions. The R&D projects were the real carrot. A new sword designed by him with the assistance of DARPA and no maintenance cost for his highly specialized gear was too good to pass up. He’d still have six projects he could utilize at later times to adapt to new challenges and environments. Finally, full protection from investigation by the JLA was something Jason could only dream of. It wouldn’t stop the bats, but would be effective enough to hamper any investigations as their peers worked to maintain the political peace.

“They’re forecasting the first snowfall in Colorado next week. It’s supposed to drop five inches overnight. A great way to start a five month vacation, wouldn’t you say?” Slade smirked up from his tablet. The only response he received was a slight turning of the faceless visage in his direction. That’s the last time Jason asks for permission in anything related to Slade’s daughter.

Jason took the contract and signed. “Excellent! The briefing is on your tablet and our other guests should be here in a few minutes. Please make yourself comfortable.” President Jackson proclaimed. Jason looked around the room and spotted a dark corner where the rounded bookshelf ended and the morning light was casting a shadow. He quickly walked over and ensconced himself in shadow. A comforting measure, that would allow him to collect his thoughts for whoever the President invited. He proceeded to connect the tablet to his wrist pad and review the prepared briefing on his hud.

He was half way through the briefing when a knock resounded on the door interrupting his thoughts and list. The door opened to reveal three figures that were NOT part of the JLA.

xxxxxxxxxx

Dick Grayson was having a rough day. It started with Garfield running into his room in the tower as a dog and licking him till he woke up. When asked what the hell he was doing, Garfield answered that Batman had called earlier and needed to speak with him and Donna.

This started his day on the wrong foot as his relationship with Bruce was cold and unfeeling at best and absolute hellfire at worst. After the nightmare that was reigning him in, the team had lost several key assets. Mainly the mansion and the batplane after Tim managed to pilot the plane into Vandal Savage and his meteor. The Batmobiles were toast and Bruce’s fortune lost to the breeze.

Bruce had recovered in the previous years, financially. The fruits of being good at business and networking apparently. He had started to rebuild the mansion and was working to be the JLA’s number 1 private backer. A publicity stunt to make it look like he went broke because of being too selfish and ignorant. A true but still woefully inadequate way to describe the Gotham War as it was now known. The wealth also helped him build his own network of systems that were isolated from the rest of the family as Babs wasn’t letting him within five miles of Duke, Tim, and Damian.

Not that Tim needed any help in that regard. After destroying Savage and accidentally killing Selina in the explosion. Tim just said he was sorry and left to join his friends in Young Justice. No one but Bernard had been able to get him to meet with the rest of the batfamily outside of emergencies. Even when he did show, it was a somber affair. His eyes would drift to the chair that sat empty at every family meal.

Duke wasn’t much better. He had taken to his new role as Crime Alley’s protector with Damian as support. The first years were…. rough. Homeless kids asked about Father Hood and the prostitutes all but shunned him after the city had learned of what Batman did to Hood. The rest of the alley wasn’t much better. Regular calls of “No Bats!” echoed in the neighborhood. Muggings turned into impromptu ambushes, as the residents faced the bigger threat of being rewritten by Batman and his “Allies” over losing a few dollars. The last year had settled down, but he was still outmatched. All he wanted was some advice from his predecessor, but everytime he turned to ask he was met by an empty chair. Jason having disappeared from their lives like a ghost, and honestly. Duke was considering following suit.

Damian had mellowed out some bit. Being raised as Babs and Dick’s surrogate child. They claimed it was good practice for when they had children, until Damian pointed out that having a girl would throw all this practice out the window. Babs is four months pregnant and Dick couldn’t be happier, while Damian was trying to wrap his head around being an uncle at sixteen. He was constantly reading baby books and trying to learn as much as possible for the baby’s development. When Dick asked why, his response was that Todd always knew how to be good with kids and still teach valuable skills like other languages and social ques. He had been raised in and conditioned by the league for years. But now that he was older, he realized that most of what he is came from Todd, Dick, and umi. He wants to do the same for Dick’s daughter.

Babs had also erected staunch barriers between the girls and Bruce. Cass spent most of her time between Hong Kong and the dance studio. She had the makings of a potential Olympic athlete and was teaching other girls while pursuing that dream. She still donned the cowl, but it was less often and only with Steph and or Tim. Babs had asked one day when it was just the two of them in the tower about the large shift in direction. Cass had answered that when she saw Jason that final time, it looked like a completely different person had emerged from that machine. He had always been tense and narrowed eyed around them. Quick to defend himself and, after what Bruce put him through since he came back, she couldn’t blame him.

That final time, he was relaxed and calm. She didn’t know if it was because he was glad it was almost over. Or if he had felt safe for the first time in years around them because he knew it was the last time he’d see them. But she did know that when he said he wanted to find what Dick and Barbara had, he was lying. He already found it, and just didn’t know it yet. Cass wanted to see if she could find her not knowing it yet too.

Steph was probably the most affected by Jason’s departure. Just going to Duke’s new safehouse to see the fully modded bikes that Jason had built for them had Duke and Steph using all their willpower to keep themselves together. The bikes were painted eggplant purple and yellow and were designed with speed in mind. They outclassed anything they had rode before.

If just a bike had her struggling to keep her tears in check, the apartment broke her the first time she was there. She had received an email stating her books had been delivered to the penthouse. When she reviewed the order in confusion she noticed an unknown credit card was used to pay for them. Further, the books were brand new according to the picture and she knew she couldn’t have afforded them.

So after a call to Tim, Duke, and Cass. The four of them went to explore her new penthouse. When she arrived, the landlady in the apartment’s office instantly recognized her name and offered to lead her to her parking space and then her door. When asked about rent, the old lady simply stated that she owned the penthouse and parking space. She was only responsible for utilities. Trying to digest that gift, she nearly missed the SUV in her spot. It was a 2020 Land Rover, painted white with a thin purple stripe down the side and black interior. When asked if it was in the wrong spot, the landlady offered a sad smile and said nothing while guiding them to the elevator.

After a short ride up to the penthouse, the landlady cleared her throat. “You have the entire upper floor. All the remaining furnishings are yours and we delivered a box that came in this morning to your island inside. Trash is on Wednesday and there’s a chute right next to the elevators.” She paused as she looked away for a second. “I knew Jason Head, he was a good young man and I’m sorry for your loss.” She stated as he had basically given everything he owned to this girl in front of her, and she couldn’t imagine another scenario.

Steph fought through the lump in her throat and said, “I am too. He was my big brother in all but blood.” Realizing after that, it was exactly like he had died. He offered her to call him if she needed it, but she would never do that. He had fought too hard and sacrificed so much for the batfamily. She wouldn’t be the one to drag him back in and ruin his first chance of happiness in a long time.

With that the landlady left and the group entered the penthouse. It had high vaulted ceilings and modern architecture. There were double doors off to the side of the open concept kitchen/family room. A separate door was placed on the opposite wall that led to a fully decked out gym and adjoining office. She had a large walk-in closet and a master bedroom to die for. But none of this caught her eye. She was drawn to the single envelope on the island. Shakily opening its contents, she discovered that it was a series of invoices and receipts. After a few seconds of reading through the invoices she realized these were confirmation of payments being made on her student debt.

She found that the last page was a handwritten note on a card. All it said was, “Senior year is all yours Blondie. Welcome to your new home. - proud brother of a future doctor, Jason T”. The sound of plastic hitting the floor at her feet had her reaching down to grab a key fob.…. It was for a Land Rover…. She didn’t have the strength to get back up.

Cass had tore into the kitchen from her exploration of the gym, having heard a sound of pain from Steph that would haunt her in the coming days. Steph was huddled against the cabinets of the island. Clutching a card in one hand and a key fob in the other. Arms crossed across her chest and legs tucked up as she sobbed uncontrollably on the floor.

After that, Steph had thrown herself into her studies with so much gusto she graduated magna cum laude. Later following it up with getting into Duke University’s Doctor’s program. Which she was still attending. Being Spoiler took a back seat to real life and she visited every so often. But she made the family promise to not let Bruce within 50 ft of her without someone else there. She couldn’t trust herself not to kill him. She also lost some of her spark, as well as her original ways of pranking the family brought up late night visits of battle planning and watching Mean Girls. She missed her brother.

Dick had taken his sweet time getting ready and dressed. He had only been visiting the tower for the week. Helping get the new protocols in place for the “Generation 2” program. Under this new program, young heroes would enter a training regime designed by the best fighters in the JLA to properly train self defense. The recruits would start with Young Justice and be formed into small teams that would be assigned a sector to patrol. Missions would be assigned based on skill and proficiency. Recruits who demonstrated clear understanding of a hero's mission and combat prowess, would be promoted to the Titans. With the Titans, recruits would be given individual and specialized training to bolster their abilities. The goal was to make the recruits know more about themselves than any villain could possibly dig up. While further improving their combat abilities. From there, it would be a waiting game of having their names brought up in JLA recruitment meetings and eventually full member status.

It was a good feeder system for the next generation of heroes and was due to begin its initial run soon as the first class was to start with Young Justice in January.

Dick approached the computer, noting the lack of a sun through the windows. It was too early to be dealing with Bruce. Donna was poised beside the computer. A slight scowl on her face. How Garfield woke her up and lived, Dick would pay to see. He powered up the computer and proceeded to login. He was immediately alerted to an incoming call from the watchtower. He glanced quickly at Donna to make sure she was ready before clicking the connect button.

He was met by the cowl of Batman and his perpetual scowl. Already turning his day to sh*t. “Good morning Nightwing, Ms.Troia.” Batman greeted in a monotone voice.

“It’s not morning yet here Batman, and it’s a bit early for us. What do you have?” Dick cut through the niceties.

“The President has requested a JLA member for a mission in the North Atlantic. They will be assisting an asset, designated by the President, to protect a scientific discovery. We have reason to believe the asset in question will be Captain Atom as he has been pulled back into active deployment within the previous week. We felt it was best to hand off the offer to your team, so a younger member can gain experience with Atom.” Batman answered.

“What if it’s not Atom? The US is a big country. You run the risk of appearing to not take the President seriously, and throwing an inexperienced hero to the wolves.” Dick questioned with his brow pinched.

“Current flight patterns have Captain Atom traveling back and forth from the North Atlantic repeatedly. He hasn’t deviated from this route. When asked he said he was patrolling an upcoming flight plan. We believe an Atlantean would best serve as a secondary line of defense. His path, constantly over the ocean. Only Tula is available at the moment due to….. personal reasons for Aquaman.” Batman responded again.

“There’s a lot of assumptions there B.” Dick observed. He was concerned as the op sounded like an escort mission with those facts. But the President had indicated defense of an asset which he thought meant protection of a static point. It could go either way.

“The JLA has reviewed the evidence and designated Tula as the best candidate.” Batman imposed.

“Was any counter argument brought up or did they just trust your judgment? This is the President. They usually leave us alone unless something big has come up.” Dick fired back.

“The decision has already been made. You have one hour to get ready. Make sure you’re presentable. Watchtower out.” Batman growled out as he cut the transmission.

Donna just rolled her eyes as she went to wake Tula. Dick stared at the screen for a few more seconds. A large scowl painted on his face. Ever since Jason, Dick had maintained a fair distance from the man. Babs had ordered that the only communication between the father and son be for “work” purposes. They both feared the lengths he would go to in order to be a part of his grandchild’s life, and would not risk their future for his happiness. In the time since Jason left the family, the full group had only met once. It was for an invasion of some sort and personal grudges paled in comparison to the fate of the planet. They all stayed professional, but it was a near thing with Steph almost losing it when Batman mentioned that Hood hadn’t been seen at all during the invasion. Her fury was incandescent at the cold observation and implied care for her brother. It took Cass physically dragging Steph out of the cave and Tim immediately hacking into the new bat computer with the threat of revealing their entire family to the world to prevent bloodshed.

He shook his head at the new forced arrangement of the family. He then decided that he can’t be tired for a Presidential meeting and elected to use the time to get some rest. He awoke forty five minutes later to Donna poking his face with a smirk.

“You’re such a child.” He muttered as he rose from his nap.

“Your face fidgets when you sleep. I wanted to see what expressions I could get out of you.” Donna answered with a giggle. Her face then slowly became more somber. “It’ll get better and easier in time Dick.” Donna informed Dick, as she saw his troubled expression for his siblings.

“It's been three years, Don. I know that some of this will go away when Babs gives birth and the family rushes to be the favorite aunt or uncle. But, I don’t think we’ll ever be back to the same closeness as before.” Dick ruminated.

“Maybe, but you’re all still talking. A good sign for the future. Don’t forget the rest of the Titans will be here and vying for that favorite position as well.” Donna assured him. Drawing out a real smile.

He joined her as they made their way to the zeta room. Tula already present in her orange and green armor, covering her from her neck to her feet and leaving her arms sleeveless. She also had her vambraces on and the traditional crown of Atlantis upon her head, covering her cheekbones. A bag thrown over her shoulder containing additional cloths and toiletries.

Powering up the tube, they emerged into the White House’s zeta room. Quickly meeting Evelyn, who turned to escort them to the Oval Office.

Evelyn was downing her coffee with such efficiency, Dick was concerned for her safety. He had lived with Tim and his nonexistent sleep habits. But this woman put the fear of god into him as she downed the coffee and grabbed another cup just sitting out on a table. He didn’t think it was meant for her. Before he got a chance to ask why she needed all the caffeine, they had arrived at the door to the office.

“They’re already waiting for you. We’ll have the helicopter ready by the time your meeting is complete. Whoever’s going will stay with me while an aid will escort the rest of you back to the zeta room.” Evelyn explained as she took Tula’s bag.

“Thank you, we promise to be out of your hair in no time.” Dick responded with his trademark grin.

Donna entered the room first, followed by Tula and then Dick. He nearly ran into a stiff Troia as he entered the room. He quickly glanced at her, noticing she was glaring at something in the room. It took him a few seconds to guess what that was. “Hmmm, not who I thought they would send.” Slade Wilson said as he lounged on one of the couches next to Amanda Waller.

“What are you doing here?” Donna growled out as she shifted slightly in front of Tula. Dick immediately copying the movement on her opposite side.

“Currently….. waiting to start the briefing.” Slade answered carelessly. Dick turned to the President, who was watching the two sides size one another up.

“Mr. President, it's an honor to meet you, but we must apologize. We cannot in good faith work with this man as your asset.” Dick said, trying to be as diplomatic as possible.

“Mr. Nightwing, that is perfectly alright, as he is not the asset. Agent Knight will be overseeing this operation.” President Jackson responded while waving a hand to his right.

It was at this point, he and Donna noticed the shadow across the room move. It shifted and out stepped what could have been a clone of Death Stroke. Decked out in midnight black armor and weapons strung across his body. The faceless visage taking them in. Speaking in a deep modulated voice that instantly dropped the temperature of the room to the heroes.

“You’re not the Justice League.”

Chapter 7: Not the Justice League Pt.2

Chapter Text

“You're not the Justice League.”

The statement pierced the air as the figure crossed his arms over his chest. Donna could only stare at the heavily armed and armored man. On first glance, he could be mistaken for a stealth-suited Death Stroke. But the armor was too sleek and didn’t have Slade’s trademark scaled armor. Instead it looked like something Batman would come up with. The figure’s stomach, chest, shoulders, and arms armored up with plates that clearly slid past one another, allowing free movement. Where the armor deviated was the belt and pants. The belt had additional straps that ran down the man’s thighs and looped around them to attached holsters containing two large handguns. The belt itself contained additional clips and pouches, with throwing knives being clearly visible. She’d bet he was just as prepared and overflowing with gear as Batman or any of the bats. The pants appeared to be a dark gray military cargo pant that flowed into the armored greaves that started at his knees. The pants and overall design indicated the idea of a militarized Batman. With a large rifle positioned on his back and four magazine packs attached at 45 degree angles on the front of his stomach. Forming an open V pointed toward his head.

The helmet was a whole other animal. It, like the plates, looked like it should be shiny and reflective. But instead, embodied a void. No reflections or indication of light escaping from the man’s gear. Armor specially designed for war and death was Donna’s conclusion.

“No we’re not. But the JLA has reviewed the President’s request and various factors. Deciding that one of our members would best fit the role for this mission.” Dick answered as he shook off the cold feeling and tried to lessen the tension in the room with a smirk.

“What factors were reviewed?” Agent Knight shot back.

“The JLA noted that Captain Atom has been called back into active service as of last week. Since then, he has been patrolling the same flight path. This path extends over the Atlantic for a majority of its duration. Thus, they felt an Atlantean would best serve as an underwater escort. Aquaman is currently unavailable due to duties in his kingdom and it was decided that” Dick now stepped to the side and motioned Tula forward. “Aqua Girl was the best candidate for the job.”

With that explanation given, the rest of the room returned to silence. Waller had crossed her arms and was looking at the three of them with her left eyebrow raised. Slade, the bastard, just grinned slightly. Like that was the wrong answer. Agent Knight hadn’t moved from his position and appeared to still be staring down at them. The President in the meantime had narrowed his eyes on them.

“So, to clarify. The JLA had received a request from the President of the United States, their largest financial backer, and instead of asking for additional details. Drew upon possibly unrelated facts to draw a picture. They then decided that their picture was accurate enough to base delegating an individual. All without any sort of clarification of the mission, a literal email away.” Agent Knight asked figuratively before continuing. “Then, they decided that a request of this magnitude didn’t warrant a full time JLA member, and instead handed it off to your group. An affiliated, but not as experienced group that specializes in up and coming heroes. Ages 18 to 23” Agent Knight finished, his distorted voice still calm and flat.

“As I said, they felt Aqua Girl would be the best option for this mission.” Dick responded. He knew that this wasn’t going to go well. There were too many assumptions and not enough hard facts, and the rest of the JLA went along with it as they considered Batman’s logical deduction unquestionable. Even after his episode in Gotham, which they wrote off as a stress induced psychological break. Three months of forced relaxation later, and it was as if Batman had never had the break in their eyes.

In the meantime, Jason had digested Dick’s response and came up with only one answer. Bruce f*cking Wayne. He was probably the one to receive the request during monitor duty. Instead of asking for additional clarification, which would’ve been written off anyway as it came from the same source and not a third party, he did his own digging. He probably presented his findings as facts in a meeting with the JLA Council to delegate a hero, and they went along with it. Three years removed from the family and on his third life, Bruce still found a way to f*ck with him. He would have been impressed, if it wasn’t so annoying.

He was also taking in the sight of Dick in front of him. Truly the man looked tired. New stress lines had appeared in the prior three years, and he seemed more weighed down. But Jason compartmentalized that for after the mission. He had to deal with the mess in front of him first.

“Mr. President, you asked for a hero and they sent a child.” The disapproval clear in Jason’s distorted voice.

Responses of “Hey!”, “That’s not what happened.”, and “I am not a child.” Echoed from Donna, Dick, and Tula respectively.

Jason had to give Tula points. Even though being called a child, she responded in an even tone that spoke of maturity. He still knew that she wasn’t cut out for this mission or handling his methods. Truely, Katana, Batwoman, or Huntress would be better suited. They understood that he wouldn’t operate under their morals and would leave him to his mission in peace. They also understood the necessity of his actions after having been on his side of the line.

“Unfortunately, we don’t have the luxury of finding a replacement. We need you to deploy quickly. And Knight, I’m increasing the three to eight additional R&D.” President Jackson spoke. He clearly wasn’t pleased either, and sensed that additional incentive for Jason would resolve the dispute till after the mission. He could deal with the JLA then, with evidence of their incompetence. “Now, please take a seat.” President Jackson asked as he swept his arm to the open couch across from Waller and Slade.

As the trio arranged themselves on the couch, Jason returned to the wall and leaned his back against it. He resumed his list as the President began the briefing for the Titans.

“Four days ago, the Weller Research Station announced to the world that they had discovered three new elements that when combined together, produced self-sustaining energy. This discovery along with the elements themselves were supposed to remain secret from the general populace until they were transported to a secure facility.” The President outlined.

“If they were supposed to be kept secret, why did Vicki Vale get an exclusive interview and tour of the facility?” Dick questioned. It didn’t make sense unless they were trying to bait someone in.

“Head Scientist Herman Trask decided that his work was too important to go unrecognized. So he secretly flew Ms. Vale out to the station with a cameraman in a bid to get his name set in history. He will be returning on the flight that takes the team to the station so he and I can have a….conversation.” President Jackson smirked.

So not a trap for a villain. Just prideful ignorance, Dick sighed in his head.

“Moving on. Your mission is two-fold. You will protect the elements in the main research center till the transport team arrives in three days. The JLA was correct in Captain Atom’s movements, but he is part of the escort team. The elements can’t be moved without potentially unleashing their stored energy, so we are having to construct a containment chamber. The second part of your mission is the protection of Isabel “Issy” Chambers. She is Herman’s assistant and will be assisting in the transportation of the elements.” A picture of a young woman with jet black hair, hazel eyes, and sharp jawline appeared on the briefing screen.

“We believe the station may be attacked prior to our transport team arriving. Chatter has increased exponentially since the announcement, and even more so the movements on base for the containment chamber.” President Jackson finished.

“ROE?” Jason asked from his wall.

“No leash.” Waller responded in a monotone and wave over her shoulder, eliciting a “hmm” from the Agent.

“Agent Knight? Who and what are you? I’m sure you’re classified, but I would like a generalization so I know who I’m working with.” Tula asked as she gazed at the Assassin.

Jason turned his head to the President, receiving a small nod. “I’m the first in a genetic augmentation program. The results of which allow me to keep up with most meta-humans. I specialize in asset protection and extraction. I’m afraid that’s all I’m allowed to say on the matter.” Jason lied easily. He did specialize in asset protection and extraction, just that extraction meant stealing intel while exterminating enemy locations and protection meant killing anyone dumb enough to stand in his way of an objective. Tula nodded with the new information.

“On that note, you three will be signing a contract that applies to the entire JLA, as you have been implicitly selected to represent them in this matter. The contract is a binding resolution that Agent Knight’s identity shall not be researched by the JLA and if discovered by any JLA member, shall remain anonymous from all others.” Waller said as she passed three pieces of paper and pens to the trio across from her. “He is our country’s best agent and I can’t risk him being compromised. To this effect, the charge of treason will be leveled at anyone in the JLA who breaks these statutes. Further, this briefing will be withheld as classified until its completion. This includes your JLA. We don’t want to risk any additional press getting a hold of our plan and asset.” She continued.

“How often is he expected to work with us that these statues are necessary?” Dick asked.

“This is a unique situation. We don’t expect to have to include the JLA with him going forward. But we are worried about your more… paranoid members and have seen the results of their inability to safeguard information.” Waller responded easily.

Memories of Bruce’s contingency plans being used against the JLA and the political fallout when Young Justice was sent into Corto Maltese to stop a human trafficking ring. Only to discover Delta Force on site, thus compromising their position, flashed through Dick and Donna’s head. He was sure that the Spec OPs community still hated them after that terrific blunder.

“It’s a fair contract and request, and should be easy to enforce once we inform the JLA Council.” Donna spoke after having read the contract over. She was used to such trivialities, having worked in the Themysciran embassy. She quickly signed. Dick followed not long after as he trusted Donna’s abilities, and was followed by Tula. “We require a digital and paper copy of each of those contracts before we leave. The JLA will need them for their records.” Donna requested while also needing the contract for the council meeting they were going to need to have.

”An aid will provide you with both on your way out.” President Jackson informed them.

“Thank you Mr. President.” Donna acknowledged with a slight nod.

“I expect both of you back here, and a full JLA member after the execution of this mission for a debrief with our personnel. Have you completed your requests Agent?” President Jackson asked as he turned to Jason.

“Yes sir, Mr. President.” Jason replied easily. He didn’t have an extensive list, but wanted to be ready for all types of attackers. The list was surprisingly standard for one of his missions and had been finished by the time they started the briefing.

“Excellent, I’ll have Evelyn escort you and Aqua Girl to the super stallion. It should be loaded with your gear by the time you get there. It was a pleasure to meet you Nightwing and Wonder Girl. I hope next time will be under better circ*mstances.” President Jackson answered as he shook Dick and Donna’s hands. The trio rising from the couch and approaching the President and Agent respectively.

“The pleasure was ours Mr.President.” Dick responded as they were escorted from the room. Donna pausing to give Tula a supportive smile. Receiving back a smirk in return. Waller and Slade followed behind them. Neither pausing as they knew Jason would move continents, or die trying.

“Agent Knight? Aqua Girl? Please follow me.” Evelyn asked from another doorway.

“Good luck you two. I look forward to your imminent success.” President Jackson called out as he rounded his desk.

“Thank you, Mr. President.” They answered in unison as they left his office.

The walk to the chopper was uneventful and more in line with what Jason had originally expected. Back hallways and rooms with no one around. They emerged on the south lawn, a CH-53E Super Stallion sitting in the grass. They quickly approached the back ramp into the chopper.

“I’ve been assured that all your gear and requests are within. Waller also packed an additional upgrade to your suit. She said something about needing better urban camouflage and target intimidation.” Evelyn explained before the open door of the chopper. Tula had already entered and confirmed her bag was included before beginning to strap herself in.

“Thank you. Tell her I’ll put it to good use.” Jason responded as he gave the take off signal, a quick circular motion of his pointer finger up in the air, to the pilots. Evelyn nodded while wishing him luck and heading back toward the White House.

Jason clambered inside the chopper as well and strapped himself in across from Tula. Eyeing the requested equipment, he spotted the two tablets and headset he needed to explain his defense strategy to Tula. A quick stretch later and he passed one of the tablets to Tula, along with the headset. She quickly powered on her tablet and equipped the headset. On the tablet, she was met by the blueprints of the station. Her eyebrow already raised at his strategies in front of her. Jason could tell he was in for a long flight.

Chapter 8: Setup

Chapter Text

North Atlantic - 12 hours later

Vicki was freezing as she stood on one of the metal gangways, looking off toward the ice covered sea in front of her. She was told the ice that surrounded the repurposed oil rig was thick though to support full passenger airliners landing and taking off. The issue was the constantly shifting currents of the sea that would crack and smash planes of ice together, making it unstable. But it was perfect to act as an artificial land bridge for the researchers and crew of The Weller Research Station.

They would often go out in teams to extract ice cores and observe the surrounding habitat. A mundane but typical pastime for researchers is this part of the world. That was until Herman pulled three rocks from one of the cores that he had never seen before. He had been intrigued by their coloring. One was a light blue shade that darkened in pores that surrounded the exterior of the stone. It seemed to pulse every few seconds, emitting a cyan glow. Another was a smooth, yellowed stone that seemed to constantly shift its temperature to match the warmest item in contact with it. The final stone was an onyx black, jagged stone. It would absorb the power from any electrical equipment that came into contact with it. One researcher’s phone being the victim of that discovery.

Herman had immediately attempted to determine which elements made up the strange stones. Only to find they didn’t exist yet. It was at this point he started various tests to see what other properties the stones held. He ran test after test, trying to find some sort of function for the new elements. Dreams of a trio of new elements named by him and setting humanity on a new future with his discovery.

Alas, he didn’t find anything he considered worth his time…. Until, he had thrown all three elements into a stasis chamber. Issy had protested, “Three new elements that we know next to nothing about, and you want to put them together in the same chamber!” He had duly ignored the young assistant. She was only here as a favor to one of his colleagues, her mother an important figure in the financial field. He knew the importance of maintaining relationships with the hand that feeds you. But that didn’t matter anymore! He had the key to the future of mankind and wouldn’t be swayed.

The chamber had barely powered on before the rocks combined together. A loud crack and scraping being heard from the chamber. They formed a lime green, triangular gem that was now floating in the center of the chamber. Slowly rotating and defying gravity. Herman had approached and opened the chamber, only to have the laptop he carried drained of power. Quickly closing the chamber again he rushed to the chamber’s connected computer, and observed that power had spiked momentarily after absorbing the laptop’s charge, before dissipating back to a stable level. Only this time, the charge held was ten times greater. Far more than what the laptop could have contained.

He was on the phone with his backers in seconds and sending data, patents, and test results without a second thought. It was a few hours after that, Amanda Waller had contacted him personally and explained that an escort team would be there within the week. They would contain the element for transport to a secure facility and his work could continue, while under heavy security. Herman had agreed on the phone, but had contacted the Gotham Gazette seconds after concluding his call with Waller. He promised a Pulitzer Prize winning story, if they could get a reporter up to the station within the next two days. He wouldn’t let the government steal his glory by hiding away his discovery.

The gazette had done one better and sent a cameraman and Vicki the very next day. Thus, began her story to wipe Lois from the face of the planet, an exclusive that put said woman’s tour of Superman’s home in the ground.

She was taking some time to herself, observing the clear skies and ice from her perch. Herman had stated his backers needed him in the states for some reason. He was due on the next flight out. Which was fine with her. She got the one and only exclusive, a live presentation of her work on national TV, and additional story bits that would generate national headlines for weeks to come. All in all, a good week for the gazette and her future.

She was pulled out from her thoughts by her cameraman, Dale, tapping her shoulder and pointing to the helipad. A pairing that her boss couldn’t get enough of, as he laughed at his own word play. She turned to see a black, military helicopter approaching. Herman was at the bottom of the stairs leading to said pad, looking nervous with a bag on his back.

Vicki sensed an upcoming story and turned to Dale. “Does your phone still have battery left?” She asked him.

“Fully charged and ready. I don’t think they’ll like us recording that though Vicki.” Dale expressed somewhat hesitantly.

Ignoring the concern in Dale’s voice, Vicki ordered, “Turn it on and set it to record from your pocket. We’re going to go meet our new friends.” Dale did as he was told, this not being his first rodeo with Vicki. The pair quickly making their way over to Herman.

“Doctor! That is one hell of a pickup, wouldn’t you say!” Vicki called next to Herman. Trying to be heard over the rotors, as the helicopter spun around so the tail was facing the rest of the platform.

“I’ve been told we’re getting additional security and it as cheaper to do one flight here and back!” Herman responded as he eyed the slowly spinning down tail rotor.

“Must be a full security team. No offense, but two hunters armed with hunting rifles do not make a security force.” Vicki smiled lightly. Trying to pry information from the man. The rotors had stopped spinning and corresponding engines powered down by this point. The trio, taking this as an invitation, made their way to the top of the platform.

The chopper itself was large and painted a solid black. But despite the imposing appearance, was plainly unarmed. A man, clearly one of the pilots, approached the two of them. “Doctor Trask?”

“Right here! I didn’t expect such an imposing flight.” Herman chuckled awkwardly.

The pilot didn’t grace that with a response. He was supposed to be on leave, but was called back in for this mission. “We’ll be getting underway once we offload our passengers and their gear. Could you get someone to tour them around the station while we work?” The pilot asked, trying to emphasize they were on a time table.

“Of course, I’ll have Issy out here in few.” Herman responded while pulling a walkie-talkie from his left side.

“Appreciate sir.” The pilot answered as he turned and made his way back to the chopper.

During this, the back door of the helicopter had lowered and the other pilot had entered. What followed was a series of crates being offloaded via conveyor systems in the chopper. The pilot then exited the bay and started moving the gear onto the pad with a pallet jack. Issy arrived half way through this offloading. “You called Doctor?” Issy asked, eyes wide at the amount of gear and size of the helicopter. She knew they were going to send some security, but the size of the chopper made it look like a small army was more likely.

“Yes, the pilot has asked that we provide a tour of the station for our new guests. Would you mind handling that for me?” Herman asked as he watched the three pallets be organized on one side of the pad by the pilot.

“No problem. Do you know how many guards they sent?” Issy asked, also eyeing the pallets.

“I’m guessing one to four. That’s not enough gear for a full squad.” Vicki answered nonplussed at the events in front of her. The two researchers turned to look at her, quizzical looks upon their faces. “I was a war correspondent before switching to a safer line of work. It’s helped tremendously with Gotham’s constant gang wars.” Vicki shrugged. Dale slowly nodding behind her, lost in past memories.

Further inquiries were interrupted when a woman with bright red hair and clearly Atlantean armor walked out from the helicopter. Vicki and Dale recognized her instantly. “I thought the Titans didn’t have fancy helicopters. Much less clearly military pilots.” Vicki called over to Aqua Girl.

“We’re expanding the roster. Can’t let the bad guys know our next move.” Tula called over to Vicki.

“We’re ready to go doctor.” The pilot that had talked with them earlier sounded off. His partner was already back in the co*ckpit.

“Right!” Herman echoed back as he turned to the group next to him. “Thank you again for coming so quickly Ms.Vale. I hope it was as promising as I said.”

“It was doctor. Thank you for the exclusive tour and I look forward to reporting on your coming success.” Vicki answered while shaking his hand.

“Issy, take care of yourself. I don’t think I’ll be gone long, and I’ll call if we have to relocate.” Herman let the assistant know.

“Of course doctor. Safe travels.”

With that, Herman turned while waving to the group and headed to the chopper. Aqua Girl watched him approach the doorway with a fascinated look upon her face. “What’s up?” Vicki asked, noticing Aqua Girl’s expression.

“I thought he’d come out by now.” Tula responded.

“Who?” Issy managed out before a scream of “Holy f*ck!” emerged from Herman. They turned and saw Herman lying on the ground, clutching his chest.

“Apologies, doctor. But get up, they have a time schedule to keep” a distorted voice answered from the chopper.

“Right, I’m sorry.” Herman shakily bit back as he picked himself off the ground and made his way into the chopper. Legs wobbling the entire time.

“Did you bring Batman?” Vicki asked, excitement lacing her voice. She has been dying for an interview with one of Gotham’s vigilantes ever since Wayne Manor blew up three years ago. Since then, the only consistent vigilantes in Gotham have been Batman, Signal, and Robin. Signal and Robin constantly sticking to Crime Alley, while Batman workes the rest of the city alone. News of Hood’s punishment having taken to the streets in the days following the explosion. It all pointed to a major falling out, and the news story of the decade.

“No, he’s currently stationed on the Watchtower. That is my assigned partner for this mission.” Aqua Girl answered with slight displeasure in her voice.

“Who did they assign you?” Vicki started her interrogation.

She was answered with a distorted, “Classified above top secret, Ms. Vale.” Vicki turned to see a heavily armored void making his way over to them. No sound coming from his movements.

Jason turned and quickly flashed the take-off signal to the pilots. Receiving a thumbs up in return. He then turned back to the group before him and spotted Issy among the crowd. “Isabel Chambers correct? I’ve been told you can give us a tour of the facility.” Jason started, trying to put the girl more at ease.

He received a surprised “meep” followed by Issy answering, “Yes of course sir! It’ll be my pleasure.” The group could hear the obvious panic in her voice.

“Alright then Isabel. Could you take my partner first? I have a lot of gear to see to, and need some time.” Jason tried again. He would have taken the top half of his helmet off to show his eyes and imply a sense of humanity, but Vale would have his unique hair on every front page across America.

“No problem Sir! Please follow me Ms. Aqua Girl.” Issy responded as she quickly fled. Tula just followed behind, sympathetic to the girl’s fear.

Jason turned back to his gear as the Super Stallion initiated takeoff and proceeded to leave the airspace. Leaving behind a curious Vicki, a nervous Dale, and annoyed Jason. He hadn’t had to deal with Vale in years. He remembered her as being far too nosy and invasive. Prying into his then newly adopted status. Trying to find a story behind why Brucie Wayne would adopt a gutter rat, that was more nefarious than the PR response from Bruce himself. It went about as well as could be expected honestly. She only got hit twice by him. Both times she had surprised him by being in the restricted areas of the manor during his first gala. He had only wanted to get away from all the rich pricks, and was trying to be good for Alfred’s sake. The second time they were caught by Alfred who gave her the,”I’m very disappointed in you look”. She had slinked off after that and Jason spent the rest of the night at Alfred’s side. He managed to steal three cookies that gala, and even got Alfred to share with him. Thinking of that made him miss the old butler.

“You’re not a Titan or JLA.” Vicki started.

“I’m not? I thought I filled out the paperwork and everything.” He deadpanned back. He hated the press, but could never miss an opportunity to screw with them.

“You’re something else, I’m guessing military. Spec Ops probably. The question is why Spec Ops would be working with a Titan.” Vicki continued. Jason in the meantime had opened two of the creates and positioned the drone stations within on the side of the landing pad. It would be the best spot for them once he got them up and running.

“A very interesting question if that were to ever occur. Unfortunately, I’m not seeing any special operators here. Just Aqua Girl and her makeup kit.” Jason answered while pointing to the obviously military crates.

He opened the next and final crate. This one was larger than the drone crates and contained multiple pieces of his gear. He first pulled a long rectangular case. Setting it down next him as he retrieved the weapon’s corresponding magazines and ammo. He already knew where he was going to position the rifle, and it’s currently compact state would hopefully reduce his number of trips needed to one. After pulling out the magazines, he withdrew a pack that had blocks of C4 already prepped for use. The next to final item was a small box that must have contained Waller’s upgrade. That was going to be opened and equipped in private. No telling what it did till he had a chance to review it. The final items were a series of reloads for his current setup. three hundred 5.56mm rounds, in 60 round capacity magazines, sixty 10mm rounds, in 15 round magazines, another K-bar, and twelve more throwing knives.

“We’re at least going to need a call sign, if you’re staying out here. The researchers will eventually tell us anyway.” Vicki said. Jason turned and approached where Vicki and Dale were standing.

“Agent Knight-01. Let me be clear. I don’t exist. Aqua Girl is the only security on this rig, and that’s because she heard the news and was concerned for the safety of the research staff. Any reports of a heavily armed and armored man, are pure speculation caused by one of the on-site hunters taking it upon himself to protect his friends.” Jason ground out to the reporter. “I think it makes a good story. How about you?” He said as he leaned forward into Vale’s personal space. An intimidation tactic picked up from Bruce, but honed by Slade.

“It’s a good story. I’m sure we’ll be able to make headlines, and America loves the “ordinary hero.” Vicki smirked back, not giving away her nervousness.

Jason had only one thought, “Too easy.” “Assistant guy!” He called out to Dale. Not ceasing his looming over Vicki.

“Um…. Yes sir. I mean Agent Knight sir!” Dale stammered out as he watched his boss be stared down by the agent.

“I left my phone on the chopper. Could I borrow yours? My girlfriend is probably wondering where I am.” Jason asked with a small smirk behind his helmet.

“Of course!” Dale answered as his muscle memory failed him, and he passed the phone that was recording from his pocket.

Jason took one look at the phone and quickly downloaded all the data off it and into his wrist computer. Before wiping it and overheating the motherboard. A standard bat procedure that now could be accomplished from his HUD. He then threw the phone over his shoulder and off the landing pad. Into the frozen tundra below.

“I'm sorry about your phone! You gotta be careful up here, next time you slip I may not be around to save you. At least it was only a phone right?” Jason asked, knowing the underlying message would be received.

“Right…. I’ll be more careful.” Dale said as he tried to gauge Vicki’s reaction.

“Perfect! If you’ll excuse me, I have another assistant to intimidate and security to setup.” Jason said in a far too gleeful tone as he picked up the rifle case.

Chapter 9: They're Coming From the East.... and South

Chapter Text

1 Day Later

Jason was lying on a metal grate that made up the walkway of a crane. His position providing a full 360 degree view of the surrounding tundra. Not that he needed the sightline. The drone stations were up and running now. Providing an aerial view of his surroundings. Four drones could be launched from each station and would be remotely operated by pilots back in the states. It gave him a better view, and more image modes than a standard security camera could provide. The station’s cameras also filtered onto his HUD. While being streamed to the intel center back in the states. These feeds combined to give him the general locations and activities of the crew. It was like having Oracle again. Only now he had satellites, drones, artillery support, and air strike capabilities.

After having organized his gear on the first day and taken the nickel tour with Issy, he called a meeting. He explained that he and Aqua Girl were here as an impromptu security force. Designated by their backers to ensure the safety of their researchers and discoveries. He then proceeded to outline the plan should an attack take place. The researchers would file away into their living quarters, locking down the heavy metal doors and only opening back up after hearing from him over the speakers. He explained that the tight confines of the oil rig would lead to ricochets and other possible injuries should an attack take place. He also explained that they would be undergoing a media and internet blackout till the escort team arrived in three days. In the meantime, act like it was a mini vacation. Read books, watch movies, do whatever but stay off the internet.

Jason didn’t want any intel leaking about superheroes on the rig. Aqua Girl had constantly been the subject of selfies and other photos since arriving, and he had been asked which Titan he was multiple times. It honestly baffled him that the researchers saw all his weapons and gear, and decided they needed a picture with him. He had responded each time with “classified” and immediately left the area.

His overall plan with Tula would keep Issy and the elements separate, a fact that Tula had initially disagreed with.

“Why not have the researchers shelter in the research lab? It’s the most reinforced door on the station, and would allow us to keep an eye on them in the event of an attack.” Tula had asked.

“We know that whoever comes will be looking for the elements. Thus, they will be focusing on finding the research lab and getting to the chamber within. Sheltering there gave the enemy hostages, both objectives, and a bottleneck to hold off any counter attack. A tactically impossible position for us without losing a few hostages and probably one of the objectives.” Jason had clarified. “This keeps the objectives separated, Issy safe from suspicion, and would buy time for us to arrive if the enemy went for hostages. As they would have to open each individual door. Which takes time. Especially with the hardened metal of the crew quarters.” He finished.

From there the conversation moved to possible defenses and traps. Most of which were vetoed as too destructive by the young woman. Apparently, destroying three gangways from the lower platforms that led to multiple entry points was too “disruptive” to the researchers. Jason had only conceded as he felt the confines of the rig would favor them in a fight. Narrow passages, which led to open storage areas that could be easily used for ambuses and maneuvering. The unfortunate part, he was again vetoed in his use of C4 as he wanted to trap the doors that led out from these rooms. The reasoning this time was, “The researchers needed their gear and if one of them accidentally opened the door…” So he had requested and brought a bag of C4 for nothing. At least he may be able to make use of it later, storing it near the drone stations.

They moved on and eventually agreed that Tula would act as defense. Sticking to the upper crew and research level, as a last line of defense. Jason said he would patrol the lower levels, in a bid to head off any teams that made it to the rig. In truth, he’d be acting as a solo kill team. If the enemy made it to the rig, he was there to make them regret being so bold. If the enemy clambered up the sides of the rig while he was engaged, Tula would be in charge of interception till he could relocate to her position. That way they always had someone monitoring the elements and eliminating combatants. It would again also keep suspicion off Issy.

Although, Jason had questions about her usefulness. She said she didn’t have any interaction with the elements besides trying to dissuade Herman from putting them in the containment chamber. The head scientist sending her away to continue his work in peace. When he brought up his concerns to Waller, she had said Issy was still an objective and the mission hadn’t changed. So, he had a secondary objective that held no value to the first or any perceived value at all. An interesting turn of events that he’d be researching when he finished this mission.

He shifted behind the scope of his Barrett 50. Cal, monitoring the south approach. The additional four clips spread out to his immediate right. He had guessed the south would be the most conducive to an attack. The north held large boulders of ice that would make maneuvering vehicles difficult and slow. The east was just a sheet of flat ice that would giveaway any sort of attack for miles. The west and south remained the most likely avenues. Rolling snow drifts providing some cover for vehicles, and flat, hardened snow in between. Jason had further decided on the south as it held the quickest route to the sea.

“Red crown to Knight-01, drone 1 has sighted three unknown vehicles approaching from the east.” Waller rattled off in his ear. Jason immediately relocated his setup and scoped in on the three vehicles in question. They appeared to be three open-air skiffs that hovered about a foot off the ice. Making a beeline straight for the support poles of the rig.

“Confirmed, Red Crown.” Jason answered as he drew a bead on the center skiff. There appeared to be ten men sitting together in two straight lines in each skiff. Rifles held against their chests, as the wind buffeted against their white and red jackets. The driver stood up behind them. Clearly visible handling the controls.

“Attention, thirty-three hostiles have been observed approaching from the east. Proceed to your quarters and lock down.” Jason’s distorted voice echoed through the rig. Immediately causing researchers to scramble from their tasks.

Waller’s voice immediately entered his ear. “What do we have?”

“Thirty-three, hold on.” A loud bang piercing the com channel as Jason evaporated the center driver’s head with a round. His body slumping backwards and pulling the skiff into a tight turn. Throwing the remaining men into the sky and ground as it rolled.

“Make that thirty-two men armed with military assault rifles. Approaching on some sort of hover skiffs.” Jason answered as he observed the other two skiffs break apart. Trying to spread out and split his attention.

“I don’t think this is the main attack. They’re too open and unprotected.” Jason continued as he fired another round. This one impacted the chest of the leftmost skiff’s driver, who slumped forward. One of his comrades had stood up and attempted to take control of the skiff. But his sudden movement threw off the equilibrium of the skiff and caused the side to make contact with the snow. This caused a catastrophic spin that threw bodies into the air as it crashed and broke apart.

The last skiff had turned and offloaded its men near their fallen comrades by this time. Some of the previous men in the crashes had regained their footing and were trying to regroup. The Skiff then spun around again and high tailed it in the direction they had come from. Jason observed one of the men start to establish some order. Pointing to and from the rig in silent communication to keep moving. He put the overachiever down with a clean headshot.

“They’re not military as far as I can tell. They have some sort of order, but it’s more like amateurs playing dress up.” He reported to Waller. He sent another round into the next man that had grabbed the attention of the others. A clear intimidation tactic meant to dissuade any forward thinking. The final round he sent into the closest man, his head disintegrating as he fell backwards.

Jason cleared the empty magazine and loaded a fresh one. Racking the slide with a thick clunk. “Knight-01, we’re seeing a secondary attack force from the south. It appears to be two large hovercraft, fully covered and making their way towards the rig.” The pilot of drone 3 informed the team. Jason once again rotated back to the south. Knowing the men out on the ice would take some time to regroup and find their nerve to proceed forward.

“Copy, I see the craft now. Any word or idea on who these guys are? The red in the jackets has to be symbolic. It’s doing sh*t to keep them camouflaged.” He asked as he sighted the window of the first hovercraft.

“No word yet…. Agent Knight, be advised, the hovercraft appear to have been stolen from Lexcorp’s international office in India. No suspects have yet been identified and the craft has been written off as corruption within the office.” Waller explained.

“Well, I don’t think Luthor is going to get his deposit back. Tell him we’ve at least found where they ended up.” Jason shot back.

He fired a round through the left window of the lead craft. Eliciting a large spider web of cracks through the window. He repeated the process on the opposite window. “Any weapons systems to be aware of from that robbery?” He asked as he unloaded the remaining three rounds into the lead craft. Switching mags again and repeating the process on the second following craft.

“None to report from Lexcorp, but the Indian army lost…” Waller’s voice fading away. As Jason watched a man open the top hatch of the lead hovercraft and hoist what appeared to be a rocket launcher. He attempted to shift his fire and caught the man through the chest, but not before he got the rocket off.

“Crap.”

Jason threw down his sniper rifle and pulled out his grappling hook as he clambered up. Running toward the opposite railing. He threw himself over the side, while angling his body to fire the grapple into the crane’s side. He free fell as the rocket impacted his previous position. Bathing the skyline in fire and smoke. His line eventually went taut as he swung toward the rig’s deck. Rolling forward to dissipate his momentum.

“I have obtained confirmation of India’s missing rockets.” Jason spoke dryly.

“I can see that Agent Knight. You know your mission. We’ll be standing by for support.” Waller answered.

Switching channels, “Aqua Girl, we have boarders incoming. I estimate approximately twenty-five hostiles.” Jason guessed as he pulled his right pistol and k-bar. Moving back into the rig to implement his plan.

“Great! I was tired of all the pictures and small talk.” Tula responded. Having already made her way to the research level.

“These guys aren’t very well disciplined. Expect more random tactics and units breaking formation.” Jason informed Tula.

“You obviously don’t know who I’ve fought. This is just a standard mission to the Titans.” Tula confidently informed him.

“HIVE and The Light know how to instill mild discipline. Their men and women won’t break formation as easily and will stop when it’s clearly lost. These men are amateurs as I said, most likely fanatics. It’s going to be less predictable. Think organized crime.” He explained.

“Understood, I’ll be ready for anything.” Tula answered with an eye roll.

Chapter 10: “You’re Moving Awfully Fast For A Couple Of Guys Headed To A Closed Casket Funeral.”

Chapter Text

10 minutes later

Jason had readied himself in the first storage room. The lights having been cut, and equipment stored away as best as possible. He was perched above the first shipping container nearest the door leading to the lower levels and outside. Taking refuge in the darkness of the scaffolding. The shipping container was one of four in the room. Two were stacked on top of one another and placed parallel to the container he was over. A space between to allow passage. The final container was placed parallel to the others, but touching the wall next to the opposite doorway. Creating an artificial hallway between the wall and its side. The final pieces of equipment were two snow tractors that could be lowered onto the below ice for expeditions.

With all of this shrouded in darkness, Jason had a nice little playground to separate, intimate, and terminate. Right on schedule, the door leading outside began to glow around the edges. The men cutting a hole rather than attempting to blow the door open. The cutting ceased with a final hiss of the blow torch, indicating the men were preparing to breach.

Suddenly the door flew across the room and embedded itself in the opposite wall.

“The door is too damn small!” A deep voice resonated from outside.

“I told you that before we arrived! Now make yourself useful and knock open the other door!” A high pitched voice fired back.

“You also said that this would be an easy job! No security and an isolated oil rig!” The deep voice responded.

“I said it was low security, you mouth breathing neanderthal. Not no security. Now again, go make yourself useful and follow our plan!” The high pitched voice whined.

Jason knew those voices but couldn’t place them. He didn’t have time to dwell though as a stream of armed men entered the room. Being outlined by the outside light shining through their new doorway. He counted fifteen men before two metal arms entered the room. Hauling through a small, green suited figure. Two other arms entered the room behind the individual. “Confirmed meta, Gizmo and a second unknown meta on-site.” Jason spoke quietly into his comm.

Aqua Girl quickly jumped in, “What is he doing here? He’s never shown interest in expanding beyond Jump City.”

“Unknown, but he’s here and seems to be in command.” Jason responded as he slowly inched his way across the scaffolding.

“Spread out you idiots! The door should be over there.” Gizmo shouted as his arms carried him through the pathways. The men formed up around him and created a small escort toward the aforementioned door.

“This was your first and only warning! Surrender and be taken into custody or force will be used!” Jason called out as he constantly shifted his position in the rafters. Making it seem like his voice was coming from everywhere.

“Ahhh crap! A bat! Which one are you?! Dullwing is in Jump, last I checked and Red Bumpkin hasn’t been seen outside his team!” Gizmo shouted into the darkness. His men panning their rifles with flashlights attached into the darkness. Looking for targets. The response of a low gurgle met Gizmo’s question, as a man fell to the ground.

“What the…” one of his men muttered as they approached the collapsed man. Turning him over, they were met with the sight of a throwing knife embedded to the hilt in his throat.

“What the f*ck!” Gizmo shouted out.

“I’m not a bat. I’m an executioner.”

With that statement, the room exploded into activity. Jason had dropped down on the back of one of the men. Quickly placing two shots in the back of the man’s head. He then rolled to his right and took cover behind the double stacked containers. As the corner exploded into sparks and pings from the men opening fire.

“Kill him! You three come with me! We need to get out of here!” Gizmo screamed out with fear. The three mentioned men quickly sprinting to the next door, lighting their blow torches. Their hands shaking with adrenaline and fear.

One of their braver comrades had approached the corner with their partner. The plan, to catch the shadow off guard. He rounded the corner to find nothing, releasing a breath he didn’t know he was holding.

He was surprised by a small coughing sound and his partner falling to the floor with a loud clang. He turned and caught the vague outline of a circular shape pointed at him. Jason pulled his trigger, dropping the second man. He then decided that he needed to pick off as many of these men here, in his controlled environment. So he sprinted across the container and jumped. Landing again on another man, but this time on the man’s chest and following it up with a stomp to his neck. The men around him, hearing the snap, spun to try and acquire a target. Jason slammed his left shoulder back, leading him to fall into the closest man behind him. He wrapped his right arm around the man’s arm holding the rifle, as the soldier attempted to unload on his previous position. He angled the rifle to the man’s comrade, and cut him down with a spray of bullets. Jason had, at the same time, drawn his left pistol and delivered a double tap to the other man. He then pivoted his body and threw the man over his hip in a spin. Firing his pistol again as the man hit the ground, painting the floor red.

The remaining four men turned and unloaded on Jason. He rolled backwards over his shoulders, resettled on his feet and jumped backwards in a lunge. Landing on his back behind one of the snow tractors. His armor emitting a small light of red on his chest from bullets that managed to land. He holstered his pistol again and extended his right arm blade. Two of the men quickly rounded the corner again. This time thinking they had timing on their side from the shadow’s gymnastics, and Jason needing time to reset. They were met by the armored man charging them. Stabbing the arm blade through the head of the rightmost man and using the momentum to force the body to fall with a leading left shoulder. This gave Jason a platform to roll his back over the back of the body and drive a downward slash through the arms of the second man. The man barely had time to recognize the pain of losing his arms before a reverse upward slash cleaved his head from his body.

“Doors open!” One of the three men called out as he threw himself through.

“Move! Out of the way losers!” Gizmo called out as he practically flew out the door. His mechanical legs pounding small dents into the floor in his hurry. The remaining two men nearest Jason tried to pull back and rejoin their squad mates, only to drop from twin shots from Jason’s pistols. His arm blade retracting. He then drew out his grapple gun and fired at the last retreating man. Pulling him back into the storage room and firing a round through his head.

“Run you idiots! We need to get the elements and get off this rig!” Gizmo screeched out as he fled from the void.

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Vicki and Dale were lurking through the hallways of the rig. They knew the order was to stay in their assigned rooms till being told it was safe. But this was the story of the year! A trio of elements that could set humanity forward decades, and all it had between it and the attackers was a teenage girl. She wasn’t even technically part of the humanity she was trying so hard to protect. An Atlantean that pushed aside the typical Atlantis grievances with the surface world, to ensure a future for all. The story practically wrote itself! The only problem was, Vicki had to see it.

So they had been skulking around the research level, in the hopes of “stumbling” on Aqua Girl. They “obviously” hadn’t made it to the crew quarters in time, and no one would let them in. So they figured the best option would be to seek shelter with the Titan. Vicki led Dale through the hallways in a low crouch, approaching the door to the main lab. Vicki turned and pounded on the door.

“Aqua Girl?! Open up! No one else will let us in!” Vicki called in her best slightly scared reporter voice. The door flying open and two strong hands pulling Vicki and Dale into the room in response.

“What are you!…. I don’t have time. Get behind one of the desks. Quickly!” Tula answered as she practically threw the two of them toward a desk off to the side. Agent Knight had said that Gizmo was aboard, with another meta he couldn’t identify. Since then, he said that Gizmo had breached his ambush and was sprinting straight for the lab.

Vicki and Dale had fallen behind the desk just as a loud clang reverberated on the door. A sharp talon piercing through the hardened metal as a second talon did the same on the opposite side. The door was yanked backward toward the hall. Crumpling the metal like tin foil as the hinges gave way and the door collapsed in on itself. Seconds later two men burst into the room with wild eyes and guns snapping to every point of movement.

Tula had used the time she had while waiting to fill every sink, vial, and beaker with water. Calling upon her hydrokinetic powers, she bowled over the two men with a wave and then froze them to the walls beside the door. They hung there like frozen puppets. But the strange part was they looked like they had just been saved by Aqua Girl’s capture. Tula didn’t have time to register their reaction however. Gizmo had entered the room, looking just as wild eyed and extremely twitchy as he hung from the talons in his pack.

“I thought you would have brought more men. What, HIVE going through a..” Tula would never finish that sentence, as one of his talons smacked the side of her head with such force that she was sent flying across the room.

A call of “Out of the way Fish Girl!” Tore from Gizmo’s mouth. Tula was out before she hit the ground.

Vicki watched this in stunned silence. She knew that Gizmo could be dangerous, but he was more often just trying to get some sort of plan over on the Titans. She doesn’t know if she’s ever heard of him attacking a Titan in such a feral manner. Usually it was robots or his “minions”.

She was pulled from these thoughts as Gizmo pulled a box from his pack and called his team. “Hey! I have the elements! I need you to send 5 guys down towards the research lab!” He paused while listening to a response. “I don’t care! My guys are gone! There’s something on this rig and it’s somehow worse than Slade!” Gizmo broke out in a frenzy as he loaded his prize. “Yes! I’m sure it’s not Slade! Just send the guys!” Gizmo finished as he bounded back into the hall.

Vicki was flabbergasted, and Dale didn’t appear much better. Gizmo wasn’t tough but he didn’t break like that. It was as if the boogeyman was chasing him and Gizmo was running out of space.

“Tell me we got that.” Vicki asked in a flat voice.

“Yep, every second.” Dale replied as he stared at the young hero passed out across the room. He was the first to notice movement by the door. With a yelp he grabbed Vicki’s shoulder and pointed.

Agent knight was standing in the doorway. His rifle hung casually in his hands and across his body. He merely glanced at the two of them as he made his way over to Aqua Girl.

“Red Crown, Aqua Girl is incapacitated and the elements are gone.” Agent Knight spoke as he stared down at the young hero. A slight shaking of his head. “Most likely a concussion, Red Crown.” The agent finished as he turned and eyed the men frozen to the wall. Both stiffening under his gaze. “Acknowledged, I’ll attempt to prevent their departure.” He finished as he slowly made his way to the side of the door. He unsheathed his knife and held it in a reverse grip in his left hand. Using his wrist to brace his rifle.

No sooner had he taken his position than a man had attempted to barrel into the room. Knight shot once, and red painted the opposite wall as the forward momentum carried the now dead man further into the room. Knight then side stepped off his wall, firing into the doorway and catching another attacker before they could enter the room. He took the rifle off his wrist and held it facing the floor at a 45 degree angle. The stock still resting on his shoulder. A second later he turned the corner and Vicki heard a wet gurgling sound. Which was followed by Knight unloading down the hallway at some unknown attackers one handed. He then pulled his knife free, sending a streak of red across the wall, and sheathed it in one smooth motion.

Vicki and Dale then watched as he stalked off in pursuit of Gizmo.

“Did we get that?” Vicki asked again. This time far more warily and hesitant.

“Did…. Do we want to get that?” Dale asked as he stared wide-eyed at the doorway. Both were interrupted by a groan and movement from across the room.

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Mammoth was having a good day. He was in the North Atlantic, on a relatively easy mission and he was set to get paid handsomely for his efforts. All he had done was punch open two doors and follow the fanatics through the rig. That was until Gizmo had called him in a frenzy. He knew the man could be dramatic at times, as they have been working together for years, but this was a whole new level. The little genius seemed like he was on death’s door. Mammoth couldn’t understand why though. The landing pad was secure, thanks to his valuable efforts, and the men were ready to repel down to hovercraft that would sweep in to pick them up. Sure they had lost two from the distraction to the east, and the main craft now had giant holes in their electronics. But they still ran as best Mammoth could tell. If not, Gizmo could remedy that in a few minutes.

He turned to see Gizmo and his talons running as fast as the mechanical joints would let him. He barreled past Mammoth and made his way up to the top of the landing lad. Mumbling something about needing to get communications up.

“Giz, what’s the big idea and rush?” Mammoth called out with his arms held out.

“No time! I have to get in contact with the final hover skiff!” Gizmo elaborated.

“Why don’t we just climb down and fix the two we came on?” Mammoth asked not understanding why his friend was so worked up.

“We don’t have time! It’ll take too long for me to fix one, and we won’t get very far.” Gizmo said as he configured his technical pad.

“Do we at least have the elements?” Mammoth asked. He may like traveling for work, but it was too long of a flight and boat ride to get here for nothing.

“Of course I have the elements! Didn’t I already…!” Gizmo was interrupted by six quick coughs and the pad in his hands exploding.

Mammoth looked around at his men. They had originally been told to watch the parameter. But soldiers they were not, and they quickly got bored and started taking in the scenery. All five men were down with blood seeping from their heads. A distorted voice then called out to the red headed man and small tech genius,

“You’re moving awfully fast for a couple of guys headed to a closed casket funeral.”

Chapter 11: The Fall of Giants

Chapter Text

“We’re too pretty to die and Bats is going to have a conniption when he finds out you stole his look and are running around killing people.” Mammoth answered. Slowly cracking his neck as he approached the Death Stroke wannabe. The figure merely holstered the rifle on his back and began to pace back and forth. His head never leaving Mammoth's form. “What’s that supposed to do? I’ve been more intimidated by Beast Boy after a chili cook-off.” Mammoth spoke as he eyed the pacing man.

“The pacing? Nothing.” Jason responded as he shifted his distorted voice. “Just warming up for play time kid.”

“What the hell. X!” Mammoth called.

“Once.” the figure espoused as his voice distorted again. “I preferred the name I picked after I put eight heads in a duffle bag and burned Gotham’s criminal empires to the ground.” His voice now exactly like his Red Hood growl.

Mammoth blanched as he took a step back. He remembers the last time Hood “worked” with the Titans. Five unnecessarily large explosions, a crashed private jet, and two collapsed underground facilities later, the Titans had decimated HIVE’s ranks. But they had looked pissed at the man who had set HIVE back five years. It seemed the emotion was shared by the red helmeted man, as he stood there arms crossed, glaring at Nightwing. Mammoth hadn’t thought anything of it at the time. Too focused on breathing and coming down from the panic of almost being crushed by a mountain. He thought Jinx’s reasoning for defecting a few weeks later probably originated from that traumatic experience.

The voice returned to its cold and deep indifferent tone. “That was the distraction.”

Knight surged forward, at a speed that belied his armored physique. His knife held in a reverse grip in his right hand. He cut Mammoth’s right side as he sprinted toward Gizmo on the platform.

“Giz incoming!” Mammoth shouted as he clutched his side.

“Get away!” Gizmo screamed as his forward right talon swung, catching the figure in the chest as they attempted a downward strike at his collar. Jason flew back towards Mammoth again, only to be punched in midair by the black and gold goliath. Redirecting him through one of the windows on the platform and into what appeared to be an office space. Rolling backwards over his shoulders until slamming into the wall.

“Ow.”

Jason staggered back to his feet. His back aching, but not nearly as bad as Bane had hit him before. His armor doing its job and absorbing most of the impact. His rifle was done though, barrel bent and scope obviously cracked and crushed. He discarded the weapon and did a quick visual check on his armor. It was still in perfect shape. Deciding now would be a good time to test Waller’s upgrade, He activated an icon on his HUD with a semi transparent figure on it. His armor fading away around him as the stealth function was activated.

The module had been developing for a few years now. Meant to interface with basic fatigues and Kevlar. It would charge the light particles around a subject and refract them away from the individual. The result was an invisible soldier that could better infiltrate positions and complete objectives. The problem was the faster the subject moved, the more visible they became as the module struggled to keep up. Jason didn’t need the module to do anything but give the meta pause. He extended both his arm blades to half length and shifted his neck side to side. Cracking his neck.

Mammoth slowly approached the smashed window. Weary of the soldier leaping out at him. He doubted that would happen though. Hood was as human as Nightwing, and Mammoth had hit him hard enough to dent steel. As he peered through the window, he noticed that there was a trail of smashed desks and overturned chairs. But no armored figure to be seen. “Giz! I think he’s gone! Probably to…” Mammoth was interrupted as he felt two cold, sharp blades stab into his abdomen. A fuzzy patch of air materializing into the aforementioned being.

Mammoth moved without thinking. The pain driving him to remove the blades as quickly as possible. He grabbed Jason’s left arm and pulled. Retracting the blades from his abdomen and throwing the agent away from him. Jason tumbled with the throw and used a blade to right himself. Landing in a three point pose with his left arm ready to launch forward. He quickly pushed off his back foot and charged Mammoth again. Intent on not giving the man any time to breathe.

Mammoth saw the man coming at him and tried to ready himself. Throwing a right hook as the agent entered his personal space. Knight dropped to his knees in a slide like a rockstar on stage. Tiny sparks emitting from his armored knees and shins. He quickly jabbed into the calf of the big man’s right leg. Sending the man forward in a tumble. Jason rose from his slide and pivoted on his left leg. His right arm prepped for a right hook that would pierce his opponent’s neck. Mammoth had completed his less than graceful roll and, noticing the impending doom, kicked out with his left leg. It caught Jason dead center and sent him flying again. This time he landed near the landing pad.

Scrambling back to his feet, he decided mammoth was down for the moment and Gizmo needed to be stopped. He climbed the ramp to the pad again, and was met by a frantic Gizmo trying to build another tech pad.

“Give me the elements and you’ll get to live.” Jason ground out, left blade fully extending and unholstering his right pistol as that blade retracted.

“Like I trust that! Vader wannabe!” Gizmo shouted as his talons engaged. A right talon lashing out in a slash that Jason simply leaned back from. Firing his pistol in an effort to hit the small hanging man between his attacks. Gizmo’s back right talon grazed along the ground in an attempt to trip up the agent. Jason rolled over it and returned to his feet. Firing two quick shots that reflected off a quickly repositioned talon. He then decided that he needed to get rid of the talons in order to both slow the man down and get a clear shot.

He reholsted his pistol and charged his right gauntlet quickly. Transferring the building red glow from Mammoth’s punch. He sidestepped the next talon that attempted to pin him into the ground and shot out with a right hook. Forming a small red explosion of energy and shattering the talon. Gizmo lost his balance and tried to use this shift to stab into the exposed neck line of his assailant. Jason rolled his body underneath this attack and swung his left arm around, like the hand of a clock going counter clockwise. He was rewarded with the sound of metal slicing through metal. Gizmo’s remaining right talon sliced midway between its first joint and his backpack.

Gizmo continued his fall to the ground and landed in a small heap. Quickly righting himself, he attempted one final jab. His top left talon striking out from over his shoulder and aiming for his attacker’s side. The attack would reflect off the man’s armor and be quickly grabbed and smashed in another explosion of red energy.

“Give me the elements!” Knight growled out, his blade held to the genius’s neck.

“Not today, soldier boy!” Gizmo responded, seemingly more confident in his situation. Jason found out a second later why, when a crate impacted with his right side and sent him hurtling over the side of the pad. Only managing to grab the webbing to keep from going over.

“Red Crown, a heads up would be nice!” Jason invoked angrily.

“Agent knight-01, the men from the earlier distraction have been taking out the drones. Drone 3 has just arrived on site.” Waller responded.

“Good to know, have it alert me of any other flying objects! Agent knight-01 out!” Jason shot back as he clambered back onto the pad. Mammoth had limped over and was watching him as Gizmo fiddled with his almost assembled pad. His left arm held over his stomach as blood poured out. A call of “Stop right there!” Echoed over the pad. As Tula managed an unsteady jog forward. Mammoth and Gizmo had turned to look, visibly relaxing as the Titan made her way toward them.

Before she could even make it to the ramp though, Mammoth had his gaze torn from the approaching girl as fire lit up his left shoulder. His eyes finding a blade completely through his shoulder and its partner sparkling in the sunlight. A new weight on his chest as Knight had used the distraction to perch himself on Mammoth’s large torso, using his blade as a handhold. Mammoth starred into the lifeless void as Jason’s left arm cut across his body and chopped the giant’s head from his body. The world erupting into a shower of red and high pitched, terrified screaming.

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Tula awoke from her impromptu nap to discover two blobs in front of her. They were evidently speaking but the words seemed jumbled. Words of “concussion” and “flying” rattled around her head. Eventually everything solidified, the blobs turning into Vicki and Dale. Vicki was eyeing her slowly, looking for other injuries and the severity of her concussion. Dale was behind her, asking about ways to help while shooting furtive glances at the doorway. It was at this point Tula’s eyes tracked Dale’s and saw the body laid out on the ground.

“What happened?” She asked as she took in the dead man.

“You got knocked the f*ck out.” Dale answered in a half crazed laugh. Not believing the scale of the violence he had witnessed.

He’d been in warzones, gang wars, and hostage situations his entire reporting career. Only once had he seen a man move and respond like Knight had. Death Stroke was the best for a reason, and Dale never wanted to be near his target ever again. The first time was enough. With all the shooting and explosions. But the worst part was the mechanical nature of Slade’s combat style. Men died in horrific and gory ways, yet the man merely wiped his blades or reloaded his weapons as he proceeded to the next fight like it was an average Tuesday. Knight was more “flashy” for lack of a better word. Hs moves were unrepentantly brutal and efficient from what little he had seen. But the underlying tone was one-hundred percent Death Stroke.

“Gizmo took the elements and ran out of the room. A few seconds later Knight had arrived and observed you on the ground. He was communicating with someone called “Red Crown”. He said he would attempt to stop them from escaping and lined up on the door. Seconds later…. well, you can see.” Vicki outlined for the heroine.

“I have to stop them.” Tula said as he rose to her feet. Swaying slightly as she navigated her way toward the door. She was a Titan! They stopped the killing and showed the world a better way as Nightwing had explained in training. She was always working to prevent death. Whether that be blocking bullets fired at police officers or saving the same criminals from the officer’s rounds. Everyone deserves a second chance to be better.

She couldn’t allow this attack to claim more lives. So far only the attackers had been killed and that was already too much. She was determined to ensure no one else fell. “Wait! You’re in no…” the voice faded out as Tula focused on the task at hand. Stumbling over the bodies in the hall and trying to not get blood on her boots. She half collapsed against the wall as she continued on. A massive headache racking her brain and the world swimming.

“Here take these.” Vicki Vale said as she held out two pills. Her and Dale had doubled back, looking for a medical kit. They found one half up the opposite hall and pulled out an individual case of ibuprofen. They then turned and ran after the concussed Titan.

“They’ll take most of the edge off. But if you’re going to do this, you need to stick to ranged attacks. I don’t know how bad the concussion is but I know a migraine when I see one, and that is a bad sign.” Vicki said as she led the heroine forward.

“I’ll be fine. It takes a few minutes to get back on my feet after a hit like that.” Tula said as they advanced.

The group eventually made it to the door outside. Peaking out, that saw what had to be Mammoth throw a crate at the landing pad. Blood pouring from cuts in his stomach and a trail running down his mouth.

“Damn.” A whisper escaped from Dale.

“Stay here, I’ll stop them. Then we can finish up this mission and head out.” Tula said. Almost as if assuring herself. She staggered out in a half jog as she approached the landing pad. Yelling to get the group’s attention. Both villains turned to her, a look she’d never seen in their eyes. Hope and the assurance of safety.

A black blur sped from the edge of her vision as Knight climbed Mammoth's torso. His feet placed on the giant’s left knee and right thigh for support, as his right arm blade stuck through the man’s left shoulder and left arm blade held aloft across his body. Faster than she could track, Knight’s left arm cut across his body. A geyser of blood erupting from Mammoth’s neck as his head rolled down the ramp toward Tula. A look of surprise on his face.

“No!” Tula shouted as she drew upon the melted snow and ice around her and threw it as a wave at Agent Knight. Who was approaching Gizmo, blade out. The wave threw him off the platform and into the side of a shipping container stored on the rig. Freezing him like the men earlier against the metal.

“Baran! What… how! Baran!” Gizmo called out to his friend. Beginning his panic attack as tears streamed from his eyes.

“Gizmo, hand me the elements.” Tula tried gently as she approached the sobbing man. Gizmo looked up, not seeing her. “It’s ok. Hand me the elements and let’s get you inside.” She tried again. Her training taking over and trying to comfort the victim.

“I…. I” Gizmo staggered out, his eyes shifting wildly. He eventually smashed his hand against his chest, ejecting the remains of his talons and activating his jet pack. Gizmo took off into the air, toward the south.

A loud cracking noise was heard over to her left. Agent Knight had slammed his gauntlet against the metal container and broke his right side free in an explosion of red. Quickly slamming his fist against the center of his body and freeing himself, he rolled forward. Scrambling toward the nearest dead body and sliding his foot underneath the discarded rifle. Kicking it upwards into his awaiting arms. He took aim and fired. The bullets meeting a wall of water before they had cleared the rig. He turned his head right, rifle still held ready to fire. He was met by the same steady stare directed back at him. Deciding the mission was already as good as over, one attacker escaping with an objective and he without any clear way to pursue. He threw the rifle down and turned to walk up to the pad. Tula watching him the whole time as he made his way up to her and past her.

He watched as the last hover skiff sped over to the landing Gizmo. Picking up survivors as it went, and eventually heading toward the sea. A craft emerging from the icy depths to collect its prize, red painted upon its side. “Congratulations you’re a hero.” Jason spoke with disdain as he turned and headed back to the rig. “Red Crown, elements lost. Requesting immediate extraction.”

“We saw it from here Agent Knight-01. Prepare for dust-off in three hours.” Waller responded.

Tula just stood on the pad. Looking out to the retreating men. Knowing she had saved one life, but wondering how many would have to pay.

Chapter 12: Big Hero Party

Chapter Text

8 hours later.

Dick had received a call from a monotone man requesting his and Donna’s presence back at the White House. He was supposed to also bring the requested JLA member and an additional individual to escort Aqua Girl to the zeta room and their tower. Images of injured teammates and loved ones flashed through his mind before he pulled himself together. Already speeding toward Donna’s room. He made it to her door and pounded it with a singular knock.

“Donna, the President has requested us again!” He called out. The door opening to the sight of frazzled hair and Donna in a sleep shirt and sweat pants.

“I thought they weren’t due back till tomorrow.” Donna yawned as Dick continued down the hall. He understood her tiredness. They had been out late last night. Some semi organized thieves had decided to simultaneously rob five banks and then speed off into the night. The Titans chasing them down in a pursuit that lasted till two am.

“They finished early I guess. Must have gotten the containment chamber done early.” Dick called back, trying to remain positive.

“Our luck is never that good Dick.” Donna observed as she turned to get ready for the day.

“See ya in thirty!” Dick gleefully spouted, knowing she despises anyone who was energetic and happy before getting her coffee.

He made his way to the common room and computer. Noticing a passed out Garfield on the sectional. A controller held in his limp right hand as he lounged on the sofa. Deciding to let the young man sleep a few more minutes, Dick powered up the computer. Quickly logging in and connecting to the Watchtower. He called the monitoring station and was met by Martian Manhunter’s red gaze.

“Morning J’onn.” He greeted with a small wave.

“Morning Nightwing. What can I help you with.” J’onn replied in his monotone voice.

“The White House has requested a full JLA member for a debrief after Batman’s mission. I need someone who’s available.” Dick explained.

“I believe Green Arrow is available. I’ll alert him and have him meet you in your zeta room.” J’onn answered as he typed on his keyboard and sent the communication to Green Arrow.

“Thanks. We shouldn’t be too long. Talk to you in a bit.” Dick said as he disconnected. Turning to lightly kick Garfield’s hanging leg. Startling the green man from his nap.

“Who!… wha?” Garfield broke out, like frozen molasses thawing.

“Get up. You get to meet the President.” Dick answered with a smirk. Garfield, having awakened a bit more now, heard meet and President. His eyes narrowing in suspension.

“When?” He asked, not believing it for a second.

Dick merely looked at a nonexistent watch and responded with, “Twenty three minutes from now. Get ready and meet me in the zeta room.” Enjoying watching the man scramble to his feet and sprint out of the room.

Deciding he had time for coffee, he made his way over to the kitchenette. Pulling the grounds from the cabinet and starting a pot. As it brewed he pulled two travel mugs from the cabinet and added cream and sugar to the bottom. He then poured the completed pot into the two mugs and sealed their lids. Making his way back down the hallway, passing a stumbling Donna who was rubbing her right eye. He held out the second mug and continued down the hallway. Donna grabbed the cup without thinking and turning to follow their leader. Savoring the flavor of the coffee as they walked. They made it to the zeta room as it powered up, and a green hooded figure walked out. A bow strapped to his back and arrows firmly placed in their quiver.

“Morning kids.” Oliver greeted with a sarcastic smirk. Dick responding with his own as Donna scowled at the man.

“I don’t get paid enough for this.” Donna bit out as she took another sip from her mug.

“We don’t get paid.” Dick responded in a deadpan. Used to her early morning moods. She just glanced over, an analyzing look in her eyes,

“Ok.” She said as if she was hiding something. Dick co*cked an eyebrow at her and Oliver just nodded along as if he was in the know. They were interrupted by Garfield sprinting into the room.

“Made it!” He called.

“Great, now do we take our weapons with us or is there a locker I can borrow?” Oliver asked as he moved to store his bow along the wall.

“I wouldn’t worry about it. They didn’t stop the other guy and we shouldn’t be long.” Dick replied with a shrug.

“Other Guy?” Oliver asked as he readjusted his bow.

“An agent of theirs. Big muscled guy that had enough guns and knives to give Death Stroke a run for his money. Speaking of, don’t freak out when you see him.” Dick answered as he readied himself and downed the rest of his coffee.

“Why would I be seeing Death Stroke on this trip?” Oliver asked utterly confused.

“He apparently works for Waller or something. He was at the last meeting. Didn’t say much and let Waller do the talking.” Dick explained. “We think he’s gone legit but is acting as some sort of handler for this agent. We haven’t investigated further due to the contract.”

“Right, we really need to hire lawyers to travel with us to meetings with politicians from now on.” Oliver observed.

The meeting where Dick and Donna had explained they had signed a contract on behalf of the league was boring to say the least. Diana had merely shrugged, knowing her sister was more than capable of ensuring the safety of the team. Hal and Barry wanted to know if they got anything cool out of it. They were told they got a gag clause which had Barry slumping back in his seat, mumbling something about a sh*tty Christmas gift. Clark just wanted to read the terms and decided it was fair. They really didn’t have to do anything but not investigate the US intelligence service. An easy feat, till Batman had started to type on his holo pad. His curiosity stemmed by Dick, Diana, Clark, and John Stewart of all people telling him to stop. John’s reasoning was the man was someone important and based off the mission description given, often infiltrated enemy bases and extracted HVPs. He probably had a lot of enemies in the world and it was his right to privacy like the rest of them.

Batman had ceased his typing and agreed to their request. All of them knowing he’d investigate in private. “You’d think we’d have one or two among us. Guess hero work doesn’t translate to pro bono representation.” Dick responded dryly. A grunt was the answer to his reply as they entered the zeta tube.

They were met by Evelyn again. But she seemed more tense. Walking faster than last time as she led them to the Oval Office. Her coffee being downed at a sedate pace compared to last time. They passed four men in military garb as they proceeded through the hallways. One shaking his head as they passed and the rest sporting glares at the heroes. ‘Good sign of whats to come.’ Dick thought. Oliver either didn’t notice or ignored it as he continued to follow Evelyn.

They eventually reached the door and only received a nod as Evelyn cleared the area. They entered to find Slade and Waller in their same seats as last time. Waller inspecting a tablet on her lap and Slade seemingly bored. Eye only lighting up for a second when Oliver entered the room and Garfield becoming wide eyed. It was then that Dick remembered he forgot to tell Garfield about Slade. Quickly slamming his hand over the greenling’s mouth and shaking his head no at the young man. Being met by eyes screaming ‘what the f*ck’ over and over.

“You really have a way of picking the worst people to attend these meetings don’t you.” Slade smirked.

Oliver just shrugged, “Could have been Batman.” Slade’s smirk just grew even wider, while Waller looked up with a gaze that threatened to burn a hole in Oliver’s head.

“That would be very interesting.” Slade agreed as he leaned back. He’d pay a lot of money to watch the kid walk-in and see the bastard here. The office would be decimated and Batman on the front page of every newspaper in America. Fighting some armored soldier on the front lawn.

Further, conversation died when the opposite door opened and Tula walked through. A growing bruise on her head.

“You ok Aqua Girl?” Donna asked as she met the girl halfway across the room. Tilting her head to observe the purple and red monstrosity.

“She has a concussion. Other than that the “hero” is fine.” A distorted voice answered with disdain dripping from the word hero. Jason closed the door behind him and leaned against his corner with his arms crossed. Glowering at the green hooded prick across from him. Not that the bastard knew. He has been doing that a lot in the past, now, three days. The entire helicopter ride back was spent staring at the red headed woman strapped in across from him. Daring her to say a word. The only silver lining was his payment at the end of this mess. It still tasted like dirt though. He was right there! If she had just stayed down and let him do his job, or had taken a few more minutes to get up. The mission would have been successful and the elements in this room after calling for extraction.

Instead, they had to go on a wild goose chase after the damned thing. Wasting man power and more importantly intelligence assets on what should have been a completed mission. Waller was most definitely pissed and Slade was just happy to see the fireworks. He didn’t think retirement was meant to be this fun, but between training the recruits and watching the kid set the world on fire. He was having a hell of a time.

“What happened?” Dick asked as he took in the sight of his teammate.

“Gizmo surprised me. He landed a good right hook and knocked me out.” Tula answered as her eyes drifted toward the floor.

“Can you have one of your teammates take her back? She needs rest and another checkup.” President Jackson spoke as he turned from looking out his window. He had been admiring the grounds work while trying to reconcile how to go about fixing this mess. He was already giving Waller a blank check to find the elements again. Their potential for sustainable power was too great a prize to allow any other nation to collect them. Not to speak of some rogue element trying to find a way to weaponize them.

“Of course Mr.President. Beast Boy, can you take Aqua Girl back?” Dick answered and dictated to Garfield.

“Come on Aqua Girl, let's get you looked at.” Garfield said while leading her from the room.

“So I take it Gizmo got the elements.” Oliver said as he sat down on the couch. Dick and Donna joining him a moment later.

“Yes, after Aqua Girl aided in his escape.” Waller stated as she pulled up drone footage from the pad.

It started just after Knight had been bowled over by the crate. His armored form visible as he hauled himself back onto the platform. “Is that Mammoth? We haven’t seen him since Jinx defected.” Donna said as she observed the giant man. He seemed to be clutching his stomach, probably something he ate. He was always hungry it seemed, sometimes to the detriment of his team.

“Our last report put him and Gizmo trying to recruit a new member for the Fearsome Five.” Dick said as he watched Tula approach the platform. Both Gizmo and Mammoth visibly relaxing in the footage.

“They’re going to need a new name.” Agent knight said from his corner, eliciting a snort from Slade. Dick’s eyes slid over to the man and nearly missed a torrent of red appear on screen. He turned and was met by a headless Mammoth, screaming Gizmo, and approaching Knight.

“Mammoth’s dead?” Donna asked as she watched Tula’s wave envelope the agent and slam him into a shipping container. She had been fighting the giant since she first entered man’s world. She didn’t like the man but fighting him was familiar, routine. He didn’t deserve to die like that.

“I believe his name was Baran.” Knight shrugged on the wall.

“You killed him!” Dick said as he stood up. Stance already shifting to hostile.

“Yes, he was aiding an unknown hostile element seize government assets. Making him a combatant. I’m not a hero. I see threats and I take them out.” Knight responded nonplussed.

“You could have arrested him! Brought him in to be handled by a jury.” Dick fired back.

“Agent Knight eliminates threats and operated within the confines of his mission. Our problem is the interference by your chosen agent.” Waller cut off Jason. Knowing it would probably escalate.

The footage was now showing Gizmo’s escape and Tula’s interference. “She did what she was trained to do. Save lives. Just not the right ones.” Knight shrugged, off in the corner.

“We don’t train kids to kill.” Oliver growled out.

“Good. But this has nothing to do with your morals. The facts are that Gizmo escaped with the elements and Aqua Girl was the primary reasoning for this escape.” Waller answered again. “I didn’t want any JLA on this mission, but I conceded to the President’s wishes. Hoping you would send someone who could handle working with soldiers like my agent. Instead, you delegated it to a third party, and not only that but sent a child. Barely over eighteen.” Waller continued.

“She was the best candidate at the time. We thought she fit the mission perfectly. An underwater asset to guard a caravan.” Oliver supplied. Remembering Bat’s meeting and the mission details provided.

“Nightwing told us your reasoning. The problem is you never asked for clarification and sent the wrong asset. We didn’t have time to ask for someone else. Now here we are. The elements in the breeze and my team is scrambling.” Waller finished.

The room drifted into silence after that. Oliver looking to find some answer and coming up empty. Dick lowering his stance and trying to come up with an explanation. Much like the first time. Donna was simply watching the shadow leaning against the wall. Trying to figure him out. “The administration will be revisiting our budgets in the near future. We have a lot of national debt and I’m aiming to curb overspending. I wouldn’t imagine much being left over for your League Green Arrow.” President Jackson broke the silence. Looking at the hooded man.

“Mr. President, please consider….” Oliver started but was interrupted by the President.

“I asked for your assistance expecting a genuine response and professionalism. Instead you brushed me off and dictated the work to an inexperienced young lady. She did exactly as she was trained and unfortunately it cost us the elements. I can’t reconsider because I have to dedicate spending to finding them again.”

Oliver considered that. “We can have Batman begin searching for the elements. He’d have them back to you within the month!”

President Jackson stared at the hooded man. “Your League is the reason we lost them. What happens when inevitably you decide it’s too dangerous for one man to have them? Or you keep them for yourselves? No, I won’t allow you to threaten the future of my country.”

They quieted again after that. “Agent Knight, it was an honor and I will have your payment forwarded. You are dismissed.” President Jackson continued with a nod of respect toward Jason.

“Thank you sir, it was an honor as well.” Jason returned the nod and began his exit. Donna still staring as he left and Dick thinking through possible options to get the League back in the good graces of the President with Oliver. Jason was stopped by Slade calling over his shoulder. Still glaring at the Titans and Oliver.

“I better get a call after the first snowfall.” Jason answered with a grunt as he left the room. Already picturing the dinner, sunlight, and smile on Rose’s face.

Chapter 13: What Do You Mean "Panic Puppy"?!

Chapter Text

1 Hour Later

This was not in Jason’s plans for the day. To be fair, the last three days could be summarized by that phrase. He had just returned to the OPs Center. Stripping his weapons and gear as he filed them away in his armory. He had quickly grabbed a shower and had dressed in a comfortable hoodie/sweatpant combo. Planning to relax the rest of the day away before reviewing the coming week’s weather report and his plan. He had opened the hidden door and climbed the stairs to the kitchen, only to be met by a white, black, and brown lump sitting on his carpet.

There was a puppy in his kitchen. Staring at him with dark hazel eyes and a look of, “who the hell are you?” Like Jason didn’t own the home the little trespasser was perched in. Jason froze at the sight. He loves dogs and had begged Bruce to get him one. That pipe dream went up in smoke with the warehouse. The puppy by now had tilted his head to the right. Curiosity etched in this movement.

“Rose!” Jason called out, his voice sounding every bit as uncertain as he was right now. Still staring at the ball of fluff.

“Jay you’re back!” Rose said as she entered the room. Her voice made it sound like she was caught stealing from a cookie jar.

“I am….are we dog sitting? I didn’t think we really knew our neighbors well enough for that.” Jason responded. Trying to puzzle out why they had a dog in his house.

“Some lady threw him at me?” Rose tried with an apologetic smile. Trying to sound cute and unbothered.

Jason’s head now snapped to meet her eye. “Someone threw a puppy at you?” His voice layered in disbelief and a bit of confusion.

“I got bored after you had left and went into town. I was walking around Main Street trying to get to the bookstore again and there was this mobile shelter set up outside one of the stores. I was walking by when some woman walked up to me and all but threw him into my arms! The poor thing was freaking out and I just panicked! I didn’t hear what was said until we started doing the paperwork! Is that even legal by the way?” Rose rambled through her story, her eyes looking everywhere but at him.

“Anyway, by the time I came to my senses. I had signed. So now we have a bernese mountain dog.” And thinking quickly to try and drag his attention away from her, “I was thinking of naming him Pookie.”

Jason took the bait, but still needing further clarification, “We are not naming him Pookie! And what do you mean you panicked?! Rose, I’ve seen you wade through bodies with a smile on your face and literally dive into some of the worst places imaginable. How does this catch you off guard?” Rose shifted at this, like a small child trying to not get punished, it was adorable. "No! Bad Jason! There is a panic puppy in your house and the woman wants to name it Pookie!" Jason thought.

“The lady just came out of nowhere and he was sooo soft! When I was about to rip her a new one, I saw his face and I couldn’t say no! I mean! Look at that face and his eyes! How could you say no to those eyes?!” Rose responded as she bent down and made a come here motion to the puppy. Who quickly got up and bounced over, his steps looking like he was skipping.

“Rose, he’s a big commitment. I love dogs, but are you sure?” Jason asked as he observed Rose scratch the puppy. Receiving small slaps from the puppy’s paws as he tried to grab her hands to bite.

“I’m sure Jay. He’s adorable and I’ve already gotten used to him being around. It’ll be nice to go out on walks and take time for ourselves. Plus we can go to the park and trails to hike!” Rose said excitedly. Still looking at the puppy with a small smile. He knew that he had lost the second the puppy made his way over to her. If he was being honest, he really wasn’t fighting all that hard against it. Seeing her light up like Christmas was worth any price, but he couldn’t shake the feeling there was something else. Rose doesn’t get flustered like that, unless it’s him teasing her in public. They were private about their love life, but he loved the red that would envelop her face as he got more and more raunchy in his flirtations. It often took a while and she would toss most back at him. But it was their game, and he loved every second of it.

“Rose? Are you ok? You seem more wound up than normal.” He asked as he walked over and sat next to her.

“I was afraid of what you’d think. I took a large step without consulting you and….” She trailed off. Seemingly lost in a memory.

“You should have been more concerned about wanting to name our dog Pookie. I’m considering taking you to the doctor for a mental exam.” Jason answered. Trying to lighten the mood as he began to pet the puppy. She was right. The dog was super fluffy.

Rose snorted and unwound. But not all the way. Just enough to not worry Jason. “I wanted to see your reaction. I don’t think I could live with a dog named Pookie either.” She said as she absently scratched behind the puppy’s ears.

“What names did you come up with?” Jason asked.

“I was thinking of Rocky but I think that’s stereotypical. Next was Major. He just doesn’t look like a Major. I tried Gunner and it just didn’t work. I’ve been calling him my Little Bear since then, as I tried to come up with something else.” Rose explained.

“How about Bear then? I think it fits and it’s not something I’d be embarrassed calling trying to get him to come.” Jason answered as he was transfixed by Bear.

Rose now looked up at her boyfriend. Seeing the look of wonder and slight grin as he messed with the puppy. Playing keep away with his hands and the biting puppy below them. She jumped forward and grabbed his face. Directing his focus toward her, before kissing him passionately. Breaking up only to engulf him in a hug as if he were going to disappear at a moments notice. “I love Bear. Thank you for not being angry.” Jason just returned the hug. Not realizing how much he missed her, if only for a few days.

“Never Rosey, I’ve always wanted a dog. This was just an unexpected surprise is all.” Rose didn’t respond to that. Merely glancing up toward their master bedroom and thinking of surprises.

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5 Days Later

It had snowed the night before. A good five inches accumulating in a matter of hours. It made the mountains and surrounding valley into a postcard worthy photo. Better yet it made the bed feel all the warmer. The cold air breaking against the warmth of their blankets and body heat. A perfect morning with Rose snuggled under his chin with their arms wrapped around one another. Legs entangled in the embrace of sleep. This couldn’t last however.

Bear had jumped up on the bed and had started sniffing in Jason’s ear. Curious as to why they hadn’t started their day like everyday since he’d been here. Jason slowly startled awake and was met by a pair of hazel eyes gazing down from Bear’s standing position. The demand of food and attention written within.

“Alright, I’m up. Let’s get you fed and outside.” Jason answered tiredly. Unshackling himself from Rose and quietly getting off the bed. Rose had seemed more tired recently and Jason felt she could probably use the rest. He proceeded to throw on a sweater and grabbed a pair of socks as he left the room. Bear leading the way and looking back at him every few seconds. They traversed the stairs and Jason bent down to pick up Bear’s bowl as he entered the kitchen.

Jason had learned, in the span of the short week he’d been back, that Bear was a picky eater. He wouldn’t eat his normal food without some sort of other food mixed in. When asked what she thought was going on, Rose admitted the first two days they had Bear she had forgotten to get dog food and a bowl for him. So, she fed him some eggs and parts of her dinners she made. The third day had Jason returning and he hadn’t noticed her adding gravy to Bear’s food as he reviewed the weather report. So…. now they had a puppy who was used to the finer things in life and wouldn’t eat otherwise. Jason was trying to break this habit early, but it was hard. Every time they sat down to eat, those brown eyes would stare up at them accusingly. He thought he’d have been used to it from Titus and his time sneaking the dog food when he was in the manor. But it was different when it was his dog.

Jason started heating up his pans and pulling out the eggs. Already deciding that Bear would get two with his morning food. Said dog was perched at his feet, tail wagging back and forth lazily and tongue hanging out slightly as he panted. Jason just shook his head at the imagined cheshire grin panted up at him from Bear. A smug look of “I’ve got you wrapped around my paw and you know it.” Jason quickly fried Bear’s eggs and deposited them on top of his food. Quickly setting it down as he turned to pull some butter and bacon from the fridge. Letting the butter soften as he waited to take Bear outside. The dog finishing his devouring of the eggs and dog food with a burp.

“Glad someone else appreciates my cooking.” Jason said semi sarcastically with a smirk.

He then made his way towards the front door. Slipping on his socks and a pair of slip-on shoes by the door. He opened the door and stepped out first to pull the small leash they had tied around one of the columns of the deck. He attached it to Bear’s collar and stepped aside as the puppy bounded out. Jumping head first into the white powder. The puppy yelped and sprinted back from the snow, not expecting the cold, wetness of it.

“You’re a bernese mountain dog. You should love the snow! Being born from the swish alps and all that jazz.” Jason said with one eyebrow raised and leaning against his home with arms crossed. Bear ignored the taunt and tried entering the snow again. More slowly this time. One paw after another, as if the snow would swallow him up. A few seconds later he had adjusted to the feeling and was frolicking across their front yard. Leaving a trail in his wake of compacted snow and puppy sized holes. Jason just watched with amusem*nt as the puppy discovered his new favorite place.

“Alright do your business and let’s head back inside.” Jason called as the puppy started to calm down. A few moments later, both were back inside with Jason covering Bear in a towel and rubbing him down to dry him off. Bear trying to nip at his fingers during this new found game. After drying Bear, Jason returned to the kitchen and threw a scoop of butter into the pan. A little shadow following as he moved about the kitchen.

“It’s already snowing? We haven’t even had Halloween yet.” Rose yawned as she entered the kitchen. Dressed in sleeping shorts and one of his oversized hoodies.

“It gives us an early start on skiing at least.” Jason answered offhandedly as he monitored the eggs and bacon. Quickly deciding to start a thing of oatmeal on the next burner. Rose just hummed as she started setting the table. About ten minutes later, Jason placed a plate of crispy bacon, eggs, and a cut up peach he had in the fridge, in front of his and her spots on the table. Complementing it with a bowl of brown sugar and honey oatmeal

He sat down and they began their meal. Rose pausing after the first bite and heading to the fridge. Jason tracking her movements with a look of confusion on his face. She quickly returned with a jar of pickle chips, meant for burgers, and added them to her eggs. She then dug in, completely missing Jason’s concerned look.

“Is that good?” He asked. Rose looked up now. As if she hadn’t realized that what she did wasn’t exactly normal.

“Ya it is. I tried it out a few days back when I was bored and have been doing it ever since.” Rose answered with a small shrug. Jason just looked between her and the eggs as she ate. Expression implying he thought they would jump off the plate and maul her. “You said something about skiing.” Rose continued on.

”I think it might be a bit early for that, but I do have reservations for us tonight. I figured a good meal to celebrate the changing of seasons was in order.” Jason said as he broke away from the pickle and egg combo Rose was enjoying.

Rose immediately perked up. Eyeing him in excitement. “It’s formal so wear a good dress. We’ll head out around five.” Jason said with a smile. His mind already jumping forward to the night ahead and asking his woman to marry him.

Chapter 14: The Mountain Perch

Chapter Text

Later that night

Jason was dressed in black suit pants, matching blazer, and a light blue dress shirt, attempting his third try at tying the silver tie that was supposed to match Rose’s dress. This attempt resulted in the face of the tie being too short. Jason just huffed an annoyed sign and undid his work again.

“Three years of galas, one year as owner of a club, and having Alfred and T throughout, I still can’t get this right” Jason thought as he started again. Bear just watched from his spot on the bathroom floor. Eyes shining in amusem*nt at his human.

Jason had called the restaurant immediately after breakfast and had reserved his table. The owners, a middle aged woman and her husband, immediately got excited at the prospect of young love and the proposal. They had many propose in their restaurant and enjoyed it everytime. After that, Jason spent the morning clearing their driveway. Bear outside with him, watching his back and forth shoveling of the snow while jumping around and face planting in the snow.

Jason then spent the rest of the day reading on Rose’s lap as she played around on her iPad. The TV on in the background playing various movies and shows. She seemed preoccupied with whatever she was reading or watching. Chewing her lip slightly and eye shifting back and forth. When pressed she said she was reading and watching dog training videos. She wanted to teach Bear basic commands and eventually have him trained enough to be trusted without a leash.

Jason continued his futile effort to tie the tie again. This time moving the larger end downwards to allow for more length to create the knot.

“Wow. I’ve only ever seen that face when you tried to fix our sink for the first time.” Rose faux chastised from the doorway. Jason turned and completely froze in his movements. Rose stood in her silver strapless dress. A slit cut along her right leg, allowing for better movement and to show off her black heels. She also had a black business styled coat covering her arms for her walk to the car and restaurant. In combination with her white hair, she looked gorgeous. “I believe your exact words at the time were, I can take apart and rebuild every Batmobile, hack into almost any server, and build motorcycles in my free time. I can replace a simple sink. I came home to the sink out of the cabinet and said cabinet in pieces.” She continued with a small snort.

“I got better! And that cabinet was needing replacing anyway.” Jason defended. After that initial introduction to home repair and upgrades, he had gone out and read all there was to learn about home construction. The OPs center was the result of that learning and he became the workhorse for all his girlfriend’s projects.

Rose approached him and took the tie from his hands. Carefully readjusting it to its correct lengths and starting the knot. “How did the fancy rich boy forget how to tie a tie with all those galas you had.” Rose mused aloud as she continued her work.

“The fancy rich boy hated those galas and Alfred eventually just resorted to clip on bowties. Easier than chasing me down to try and strangle me with an actual tie.” Jason answered as he admired his girlfriend.

“Your mother never bothered to teach you? I would have thought it would have been assassin 101.” Rose asked as she finished up her work.

“T never cared so long as I didn’t stick out. A lot of parties had younger guys without any neck decorations and the first button of their dress shirt open. I fit right in. Catherine, well… we didn’t have any sort of fancy parties to go to and she passed before teaching me how.” Jason answered as he rubbed Rose’s sides.

“Well I guess I’ll have to show you then one day.” Rose lightly said as she looked up at him.

“Wouldn’t have it any other way, love. We should get going.” Jason said as he kissed her forehead and grabbed her hand. Pulling her from their bedroom and toward the car. Eliciting a giggle as Rose was dragged along.

xxxxxxxxxx

They had arrived at the restaurant and were quickly seated. The window that made up the entire curved wall situated to their left. Providing a warm view of the valley below and the other mountaintops. The Mountain Perch, as the restaurant was named, was famous for its 270 degree view of the valley and fancy steak menu. It was often overrun with tourists looking to celebrate one event or another during their trip to the local ski resort. But tonight it was mostly empty. A few local couples enjoying sedate conversations and/or celebrating anniversaries and birthdays. Jason and Rose were somewhat separated from the minimal crowd as the owners wanted to give them some privacy for Jason’s proposal, but still close enough for the crowd to take notice.

Their waiter had approached and began her script, “Welcome to The Mountain Perch. My name is Samantha and I’ll be your server tonight. Can I get you both started with a drink?” Samantha asked as she looked between Jason and Rose.

“I think we’ll start with a bottle of the Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.” Jason said as he looked at the menu.

“Actually, can we start with water for now?” Rose cut in.

“Are you sure Rose? It’s no problem…” Jason asked as he looked over at her from behind his menu.

“I’m sure. Just not feeling alcohol tonight.” Rose said as she continued to look at Samantha.

“Alright, I’ll get you some waters. Please take some time to review the menu and let me know if you have any questions.” Samantha said as she left them to their menus. Jason eyeing Rose quizzically before deciding that now was as good of a time as any. The sun was just starting to hit the mountain tops across the valley and she was bathed in a gorgeous glow.

Jason put down his menu and reached over to grab one of Rose’s hands. He slowly kneaded gentle circles into the top of her hand. Rose looked up and over at him. A look of confusion etched on her face.

“Rose… I don’t know what’s been going on these last few days. But I do know that three years ago I asked you to run away with me. I said I was with you for the long haul and you said you didn’t want the long haul. You wanted everything. Rose, I said I wanted everything too then.” Jason slowly rose from his chair and settled onto one knee. Rose’s hand still held in his left hand as his right reached into his suit pocket. Quickly fishing out a black velvet case. “Rose, I don’t want everything now. For the last three years I’ve had everything and you are my everything. Rose Wilson,……would you make me the happiest man on earth and marry me?” Jason asked as he held out the open case. A silver ring held within. The large diamond in the center was custom cut to resemble a rose in full bloom, with other smaller diamonds inlaid on the band leading away from the rose. Small rubies were attached in between the diamond’s “petals” to add a deep red to the diamond that when held to the light, enveloped the ring in a deep crimson red. Much like her namesake.

Rose just looked at him, shocked. Her lower lip quivering slightly and eye blown wide. A second later he had his arms full of Rose, as she wrapped him in a tight hug while mumbling out “I love you.” over and over again.

“I love you too Rose.” Jason tried soothingly and quietly. Rose just continued to shake in his arms as she struggled to recompose herself. A wetness forming on his shoulder as she cried. Eventually she was composed enough to lean back and look Jason in the eyes.

“Jason,…. I’m pregnant. I found out after you left.” Rose said. Jason’s brain had decided to check out at this point. It was do an extended vacation. Jason just sat there on one knee, face contorted into full blown shock as his mind struggled to find the right reaction.

After a few minutes, during which Rose was visibly starting to panic, Jason stammered out, “I’m going to be a dad?”

Rose just released the largest breathe she had ever held and leaned forward to rest her forehead against his. “Yes, and I’m going to be a mom.” Rose replied in relief and a small chuckle. As tears ran down her face again.

“Rose…. I’m so happy.” Jason said as he began to tear up too. “Rose, we’re going to be parents.” He continued in awe.

“We’re going to be parents, Jason.” Rose replied as a full blown smile took over her face.

“Wait! Is that why we got Bear? He really is a panic puppy?” Jason asked as his mind connected dots he hadn’t seen before.

Rose just laughed and answered, “I went to the doctor after you left because I didn’t feel right. I was more tired than normal and didn’t know what was going on. One test later and I found out I’m pregnant. I had them redo the test two more times before they told me it was true. After that, I left and kinda started walking around Main Street. My brain on autopilot and freaking out about being a mom. I saw the shelter volunteers and went over. As soon as I saw Bear I knew I had to adopt him. I thought that if we could somehow keep him alive for nine months, then we should be able to with a baby. One signed form later and two days of stress reading about babies, you got back and distracted me from my state. I was so lost in my mind and thought you’d hate me for jumping so far ahead in our relationship. But, when you sat there and accepted Bear so easily and with that small smile on your face. I knew that all my worries were for nothing as I remembered your time caring for the children of the alley. And your efforts with charities and rehab centers, in honor of Catherine. I knew that even with all my fears of how I’ll screwup, you’d be there with me. Being the best dad and man I’ve ever known.”

Jason just gapped at the absolute faith his girlfriend had in him. It was unlike anything he’d had before. The batfamily treated him like an agent. Sure there were moments, but they all gravitated toward Bruce’s mindset of keeping him at a distance. The Outlaws were his family, and he experienced raising a child through Lian and Biz. Before both were taken from them. But, this was the first time that someone committed themselves to him in full heart. No questions, hesitation, or second guessing. Just him, Rose, and their child. He was terrified of messing his kid up. But when Rose looked at him like he was her beacon in the darkness. He knew he’d do everything in his power to be worthy of that faith and adoration.

“Rose…” was all Jason said before leaning forward and kissing her. Rose responding as she tried to grab onto more of his form. Breaking from the kiss, they once again leaned their foreheads together. A smirk working it’s way onto Jason’s face as he said, “I think I still need an answer Rosey.”

Rose just leaned back and laughed. “Of course I’ll marry you Jason!” Which led to another makeout session before they realized they were receiving a large ovation from the staff and other patrons. They both went beat red as Jason pulled the ring from the pillow and slid it onto Rose’s finger. Smiles lighting up both of their faces as they retook their seats.

Samantha walked over a few minutes later with their drinks and took their orders. Rose just sat there. Eye locked on the ring. “You know, we’ll have to tell dad soon.” She started.

“Trust me, he’s expecting a call probably tomorrow. We’ll also have to tell T, Kori, and Artemis too.” Jason responded as he thought through both the wedding and the future of their child.

“We could hold a dinner for dad and T. Introduce them to Bear and tell them about the baby.” Rose shrugged. Eyes still not breaking from the ring.

“Think we can make it through the night without them killing one another?” Jason asked with a raised eyebrow.

“They’re going to be in-laws, so it could be some good practice before the baby gets here. Plus Talia could be helpful for the pregnancy. She’s done it already and I could use some tips.” Rose said as she broke contact with the ring.

“I guess we could try something for Thanksgiving. They both have access to zeta tubes so it wouldn’t be inconvenient.” Jason said as a plan formed in his mind.

“For Kori and Artemis, we should invite them for the full weekend. Take them around the valley. I want them in our child’s life and I can’t think of two better women to be considered honorary aunts.” Jason proclaimed.

“Of course Jay. I know Kori isn’t my biggest fan, but this might help us start to build a relationship. Artemis on the other hand, I get along with and I couldn’t imagine anyone picking on our child with her around.” Rose said with a small snort.

“So I think we have a game plan Mrs.Todd.” Jason said with a smirk. Raising his glass in a toast.

“So it would seem Mr.Todd.” Rose responded. Meeting his raised glass with her own.

They didn’t really taste or remember any of the food that night. Too lost in their joined world of pre-marital bliss. Only shaken from it when they were told the meal was on the house for the expecting couple. Jason had wanted to protest, but another look over at Rose quelled any arguments as she seemed to be radiating with the desire to get back to their home. Slightly tugging his arm toward the door. He quickly threw a few hundred on the table, proclaiming it a tip. As his fiancée all but dragged him to their car. They hadn’t made it two steps inside before Rose all but tackled him to the ground and engaged in a passionate kiss. Bear running over to join in on their impromptu wrestling match.

Chapter 15: The Most Dangerous Person

Chapter Text

Titans Tower during the same week

It had been almost a week since Dick and Donna had returned from the White House. In that time things had rapidly escalated.

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Oliver had called an emergency meeting with the rest of the council to go over the coming cut in funding from the United States as soon as they exited into Titan’s Tower. He dragged both Dick and Donna along to the Watchtower as J’onn synchronized with their zeta tube. About an hour after his message had been received, the League was convened.

Cutting straight to the chase, Oliver explained that the mission was a failure and the elements were in the wind. Due to this, the President has elected reallocate his budget to compensate for additional intel operations and deployments. Everyone in the room immediately understood that the reality was the President was unhappy with their response and results.

“What exactly happened? We sent the hero that we thought fit the mission parameters.” Superman asked with a puzzled expression.

“We never clarified the actual parameters with the President. Aqua Girl was a clear mismatch for the mission. The President accepted our selection due to time constraints and needing someone to take the credit for a job well done. While his agent did the work. My best guess is that he thought his agent could handle the mission alone if need be.” Oliver explained.

Batman shifted forward with a mild scowl on his face, “What were the parameters? Our research indicated that the mission should have been to escort a package across the Atlantic with Captain Atom as an unofficial lead.”

Dick adjusted his stance and expression slightly to show his disapproval, but not enough to cause issues with the other members. He knew Bruce was at fault, but any outright accusations here wouldn’t be heeded or would be turned against him and the Titans. They were aware of the mismatch and didn’t say anything out of respect to the President and his team’s request to keep quiet about the mission. He had hoped it would go well and this matter overlooked. But it obviously had come back around to bite them.

“Aqua Girl was stationed on an old, decommissioned oil rig in the North Atlantic. Remodeled into a research station. She and the aforementioned agent were tasked with safeguarding the elements until a containment chamber could be assembled and delivered. Captain Atom was in charge of escorting said chamber to and from the rig. She was isolated from most water sources due to her positioning.” Dick answered succinctly.

“But the President cut our funding after this mission failure. We’ve had failed missions in the past with the US and they’ve never threatened, much less actively sought to punish us for these failures.” Diana said with a small frown.

“So what exactly happened that the President decided he needed to send a message?” Batman asked.

“The start of that list is that we sent what the President and his staff thought of as a child in place of someone a bit older and experienced. To further branch off from that, we sent someone who wasn’t considered a full JLA member. Rather, a Titan. Which was seen as us brushing off the President’s request and not taking him seriously. Finally, and this is probably the trigger behind him defunding us, Aqua Girl interfered with his agent and allowed the elements to be taken.” Oliver ran through. As he stood there arms crossed and looking around the room. Making sure to make eye contact with each individual at the table.

“Aqua Girl did her job and what she was trained to do.” Dick defended.

“Then how is it seen that she interfered?” Superman asked again. Growing more confused at how Tula doing her job led to a mission failure.

“We were shown drone footage and briefly talked with Aqua Girl prior to her being escorted to the tower to heal. To summarize, an unknown group attacked the rig. According to Aqua Girl, she engaged Gizmo and was quickly knocked out. She awoke a little while later and stumbled upon the agent engaging Mammoth, as Gizmo tried to escape. The agent…. neutralized Mammoth and was advancing on Gizmo, when Aqua Girl utilized the surrounding snow to trap the agent against a shipping container. She then tried to talk down Gizmo, but was ignored in favor of escaping with a jetpack. The agent had broken free of the ice during this and attempted to shoot down Gizmo. Aqua Girl blocked his shots with more water from the platform, allowing Gizmo’s escape.” Oliver disclosed. “We’re supposed to be getting a mission report and related, non classified, footage later today. The President’s team is reviewing it for clues as to who the mystery attacker was.” He finished.

“What do you mean neutralized? That had a lot of meanings during my time as a marine.” John Stewart asked. Brow furrowed as he learnt more of the mission.

“Mammoth is dead.” Donna threw out bluntly. The room all turned to her with wide eyes.

“How?! He was capable of taking me on and was no pushover from what I remember!” Superman exclaimed.

“We only saw the last few minutes of the mission from the drone. He seemed tired and was definitely clutching his stomach. We couldn’t make out why on the footage. Both he and Gizmo had turned at Aqua Girl’s approach and the agent struck. He quickly climbed up Mammoth and a second later had decapitated the man.” Donna went on. The room became silent again as the council took in that information.

“Do we know if the agent is a meta of some kind?” Diana asked. She was no stranger to war. But from the way her sister described it, it sounded like the agent was enhanced in some way.

“He said he was the first in some sort of augmentation program. But beyond that, we don’t have any ideas. I will say the man was cold. He didn’t seem bothered by Mammoth’s death or even that of Aqua Girl’s actions. It was like he expected her to do something like this. I’d guess he’s been a soldier for a long time and isn’t as bothered by death as we are and knew it was a possibility.” Dick answered. Remembering the cold distorted voice and clear disregard for them.

“Makes sense. Anyone selected for such a program is probably Spec Ops. He would be used to such missions and outcomes.” John nodded along. Dick noticed Batman across the table narrow his eyes and scowl deepen. Clearly forecasting he was going to look into the agent later.

“The agent doesn’t matter right now. We signed a contract and have to honor it. How can we get back into the good graces of the President?” Diana asked as she started to brainstorm ideas.

“I’d say leave this whole matter be. Let them do what they need to do and send a letter informing them we’re here if needed. Beyond that, we can continue our missions and wait for another shot.” Oliver shrugged.

“We can refocus on getting more private backers and maybe expanding our influence in Europe.” J’onn said.

Dick leaned over to Oliver and whispered, “I don’t think you need us anymore. Mind if we head out?” Oliver just nodded in thanks for their help and refocused on the discussion of funding.

Dick and Donna quickly made their way from the meeting and into the zeta tubes. Reappearing in Titans Tower. Both tired from the day’s events and disbursing to get some rest.

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Since that meeting, Dick had been interviewing Tula about her experience on the rig and the agent. Most of the answers he received painted a picture of a cold man that wasn’t particularly interested in anything outside of the mission. He was willing to compromise for better teamwork and trust, as evidenced by him listening to Tula and her concerns over his use of explosives. But in the end the mission came first and he’d comprise any teamwork to accomplish his objective it seemed. Dick didn’t know wether to chalk that up to working with the JLA or just standard procedure for the agent.

When asked about his combat abilities, Tula could only say she saw the aftermath. He had apparently been able to take out all but two of the men that attacked with Gizmo. The two survivors being the men Tula had frozen in the containment chamber. She said his kills were mostly headshots. She couldn’t speak to the men he ambushed prior to the containment chamber, but some of the researchers that had seen that aftermath spoke of similar findings. The part that freaked Dick out the most was her story of the ride back in the helicopter. She couldn’t see his eyes or face, but she felt his stare piercing her the entire flight back. As if he was waiting for an excuse to fight. She decided that her headache was enough to keep quiet and not return the glare.

It all pointed to another Death Stroke. This one younger and more efficient than Slade. But just as, if not more, deadly. Dick really didn’t want to think how one could make Slade any deadlier than he already was. His team barely making it through dealing with the assassin the last time. He wasn’t interested in pissing off his replacement any more than he had now if he could help it. One good thing was the agent clearly wasn’t vengeful about the mission. He was pissed they got in his way, but was professional enough to let the President hand them their ass and to only intimidate Tula on the ride back.

Deciding that he would have to watch for any more missions with the man, Dick left Tula to rest and heal her concussion.

The next couple of days were quiet. They did patrols or trained, but mostly they just relaxed. The JLA announcing new initiatives in France and Germany to boost their reputation.

That was all shattered when alarms went off indicating a hack. The team raced into the common room. Dressed in their suits and gear, ready for whatever demand the hacker made. They were met by the sight of a red-eyed Gizmo. He clearly had been crying for a while.

“Hey…. Losers.” He tried. He just didn’t have the energy or will to put on a front at this point.

“Hey Gizmo. What can we help you with?” Dick asked gently as he motioned the team to relax. Only Donna not sending a confused glance in response. The rest of the team had been giving Tula space as she recovered. Her concussion not liking noise and bright lights, they had yet to find out about her mission.

“Can I talk to Jinx? I don’t have her number anymore and couldn’t think of another way.” Gizmo answered. Playing with his sleeve awkwardly.

“Sure, let me see if I can get her.” Dick said, motioning to his phone.

A quick phone call and asking Raven to teleport her to the common room from her place in Jump City later, Jinx was stood before Gizmo.

“Can we have the room?” Gizmo asked.

“Of course. Jinx call if you need us.” Dick answered as he signaled the team to leave the room.

They reconvened in the training room. Dick knowing the team wouldn’t let this drop without some sort of explanation. They had all followed him without question. “So is this a new policy or something? I don’t think our insurance plan can handle us casually getting hacked on the regular.” Cyborg inquired as he stood next to Garfield.

“This is probably a one time thing for now. Gizmo isn’t trying to do anything at the moment from what I can tell.” Raven answered. She hadn’t seen Gizmo like that before and didn’t think this was a normal “attack”.

“He’s not. He’s calling to let Jinx know of a friend’s passing.” Donna clarified. Drawing the gaze of her teammates.

“Mammoth was killed in an attack this past week. Gizmo was present when it happened.” Dick finished somberly.

“Wait! Who attacked them and why do we know?” Garfield asked. He didn’t think they were doing any undercover missions at the moment.

“He was the attacker. It was on Tula’s mission.” Donna explained.

“Did Tula kill Mammoth? She isn’t like that and Mammoth hasn’t done any major crime since our team-up with Hood.” Starfire asked. She remembered how the villains looked after Jason got through hunting them down. He put the fear of god into them as a warning.

Telling her before he left, “If they’re afraid of what I can do with ten pounds of explosives and few warning shots. They don’t want to see what I can do with an actual budget and plan.” His trademark smirk on his face.

“Team-up is a strong word. Association might be more fitting.” Garfield tacked on. He really wanted that plane. Hood had even promised if it survived the mission it was his. It was used as a “battering ram” to the second underground facility they found.

“Tula didn’t kill Mammoth. She was partnered with an agent on the mission and he was the one to kill Mammoth.” Dick signed out.

“Is there a funeral? Do we…… do we send flowers?” Cyborg asked uncertainly. It was now that Dick realized he didn’t know what happened to Mammoth’s body. He was so caught up in the agent and failed mission, he forgot about all the bodies and cleanup.

“I don’t know. I don’t think the military would give back his body. Even if they did, I don’t know if they know who to send it to.” Dick answered as he rubbed his chin in ponderance.

“In the meantime we will support Jinx and await word on if there is a funeral. We will only go if invited and should that happen, we will not start a fight. Understood!” Donna spouted with vehemence. Looking at each of her teammates.

Jinx entered the training room a few minutes later. Face stoney and eyes glassy. “Thank you for calling me.” She said softly. As she slowly worked her hands together. A nervous tick she developed during her time in HIVE and its training methods.

“No problem. We’re sorry for your loss. Is there going to be a funeral? We’d like to send flowers if allowed.” Dick said as he stepped forward. Unsure if he should be hugging her or not.

“We’re doing a small service later this week. Gizmo said he didn’t have time to take anything with him.” Jinx responded. Still processing that their big man was dead. He was the happy go lucky one in the group and always made the others smile. It was hard to believe he was dead.

“We’re here if you need anything. Just ask.” Dick said as he decided on grabbing her shoulder and giving it a tight squeeze. Her eyes snapped up to his. A lost look held within.

“Thank you, I’d like to go home now please.” She said as she looked toward the floor and had the first of many tears began to fall. Dick only nodded and turned to Raven. She quickly walked over and enveloped her and Jinx in magic. Teleporting the girl home.

“Um guys, we’ve fought Mammoth for years. He’s beaten both Donna and Cy multiple times.” A loud “Hey!” Echoing in the room from Cyborg”s indignation. “But one guy not only beat him, but killed him. Is the agent a meta too?” Garfield finished. He didn’t know of anyone outside of some assassins and the bats that could accomplish such a feat.

“He claims he’s augmented. I don’t think that’s it though.” Donna said as she crossed her arms and scowled.

“What do you mean Don?” Dick asked, turning to her.

“He didn’t care he killed Mammoth. He barley cared he was in the same room as the President. He was invited to the highest office in the land, and he spent most of his time leaning on the wall. It speaks of confidence and belief from those in the room of his abilities. It also reminds me a lot of Slade.” Donna continued, starting to pace. “He was rightfully confident in his skills when confronting us. Slade didn’t brag about his abilities but did let them build his reputation. The agent seemed similar to that, but he was also more apathetic to both the mission and its combatants. I think he only cared that he was interfered with.”

“I caught that too. He was given a mission directly from the President, and it seemed like it was another Tuesday to him.” Dick said with a small frown.

“Dick, they didn’t want us on that mission. They had to have us because of the scientist’s ego. He killed Mammoth and shrugged it off like Mammoth wasn’t capable of matching Superman. He’s obviously experienced and has been doing this for years if Waller’s praises rang true.” Donna said as she continued her trek. Stopping mid stride and turning to the team. “I don’t think Slade was the most dangerous person in that room Dick.”

Chapter 16: Thanksgiving PT.1

Chapter Text

A few weeks later

Jason was running back and forth in his kitchen, mentally reciting the recipes and timing of his dishes. They had elected to go with a classic Thanksgiving meal of turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, rolls, green bean casserole, gravy, and pumpkin pie. The turkey was frying outside in the garage and the oven was heating up for the stuffing and green bean casserole to bake. He had made the pie and mashed potatoes last night and would be prepping the potatoes about thirty minutes before dinner. He had just finished putting together the stuffing in its dish and had moved over to the casserole dish. Rose had become the designated chopper/toaster. He gave her the onion and green beans to prep, while also toasting and tearing the bread for his stuffing. She found the job amusing as she watched her fiancé busied himself around the kitchen making the other ingredients of his dishes. Apparently, it was his first thanksgiving with Talia since he had left the league, and he was determined to make it perfect. Which led to an usually frantic Jason in the kitchen, and Rose’s new favorite show of, ‘Let’s watch the barely functioning crime lord break down at the prospect of his mom visiting.’

“How did you take over Gotham's underground?” Rose asked with a small chuckle.

That broke Jason out of his spiral. Indignation painted on his face. “It was the East Coast and most of the Midwest, thank you very much!” He replied with his hand pressed to his chest in false offense.

“Really! How come the bats only thought you worked in Gotham then? That’s a lot of area and expansion to miss.” Rose asked, as she finished snapping the last of the green beans. Jason just snorted and turned back to the casserole dish, adding cream of mushroom and making a grabbing motion for the chopped onion.

“I think Oracle had an idea or suspicion. I never recruited the various gangs or criminals under a shared banner. It would draw attention if Red Hood’s gang started showing up in Miami or Nashville. I instead would plan a meeting with the local leadership and present my financials. It was clear that profits and revenue increased significantly, while arrests dropped off a cliff. After that, most would willingly join and I would designate one of my lieutenants as their contact person, as well as send some of my men to whip them into shape. Within three months, they would see record profits and reduced arrests. I would see a new city under my control, reduced overall crime and overdoses, and record charity donations. Everyone won and the bats just thought their work with the JLA was paying off, or some super villain was preparing something big.” He answered.

Rose passed him the chopped onion and green beans before asking, “But you’re gone now. Disappeared without a trace to most of the world. Wouldn’t that all breakdown without your shared vision?”

“I created a sort of council before we left. My lieutenants will meet once a week to discuss the various statuses of their gangs and potential resource sharing. Some gangs probably left, but I’m sure that my guys can stomp them out or pull them back in.” Jason answered with a shrug.

“So you created a more moral mafia?” Rose observed while dropping an extra piece of bread to Bear. Who promptly devoured the snack. Jason released a chuckle and added the vegetables to his dish.

“Ok, different topic. Will we make it to the pie before Kori tries to kill Dad or will Talia have taken care of it by then?” Rose asked with a smirk. When Jason had invited Slade to thanksgiving with the promise of an announcement and agreement not to murder anyone, he had realized this was going to be the longest dinner of his life. Talia was given the exact same terms and had only requested to be sat across from Slade. A concerning prospect in retrospect, but it was too good of a deal to pass up. He hoped he and Kori could contain Talia, while Artemis and Rose would hold back Slade if anything happened.

Kori, was another topic entirely. If she went off, only he and Artemis would be able to talk her down. Talia would probably watch with a glass of wine and carry on a conversation with Rose, while he fought for Slade’s life. Artemis would probably quickly join them, the response of “He’ll be fine little one.” The amazon’s belief in settling conflict through combat taking hold. Which, normally he’d have no problems with. But it’s Thanksgiving and he really likes this house, so he’d like it death free through Christmas at least.

“We’ll make it to the pie. Kori loves anything I bake and won’t risk not getting any. Talia is too…. proper? To let anything phase her. Much less a snarky retired assassin.” Jason answered after a few seconds.

“It’s hard to believe the Amazon with anger issues is the best behaved guest we’ll have.” Rose responded thoughtfully.

“She’s training Young Justice now apparently. Maybe she’s mellowed.” Jason answered again with another shrug.

When he had reached out to Kori, he never realized that Artemis would be the difficult one to contact. Kori had him on speed dial and they talked at least once a month. Slade worked with him, and Talia is his mom, so they were relatively easy as well. Artemis, however, had never given him a number or had a cell phone if he remembered correctly. He was considering reaching out to some of his contacts in the CIA to track her down when he asked Kori on a whim. He was mildly surprised she was training the next generation, but quickly figured she was learning just as much as her students as she learned of man’s new techniques for combat. Probably to take back to Bana-mighdall.

This led him to contacting Young Justice, which was just as annoying as he thought it would be. Because of course Kori didn’t have her number. That would have been too easy. He sat on hold with their service representative that had to run it through two managers before he finally got someone on the team. That someone was obviously new. A sort of hazing or something he bet. When he asked to speak to Artemis, he was assaulted by the usual questions.

“Who are you? What do you want? How do you know her?”

He quickly answered them all. “I’m one of her old teammates and friend. I’m trying to invite her to Thanksgiving and didn’t realize I didn’t have her number. Also, please tell me you gave her a phone.”

“Si, she has a phone. Let me get her really quick.” The Hispanic voice answered. Jason just sat there in his living room as his agitation grew.

A few minutes later a female voice answered, “Hello, I don’t remember being on any other teams.” Accusation clear her voice.

“And you’re not Artemis. I said Artemis, kid. She’s usually the angry one that newbies fear.” Jason answered with clear annoyance.

“Um, that still doesn’t clear it up.” The Hispanic voice returned with clear hesitance.

“Ok, how about this. Red head, Amazon, carries a big axe? I was told she trains there now.” Jason tried.

“Oh, you meant Red. Sorry for the confusion, I’ll be right back.” The Hispanic voice said as a shuffling sounded over the speaker.

“How do you know an Amazon?! Much less Artemis?!” The female voice asked.

“Firstly, I know multiple amazons and Artemis is easily my favorite. Secondly, how do you deal with two Artemis on the team? It seems confusing.” Jason said. Trying to not give too much away while also wracking his brain for whoever this could be.

“I go by Crock in base. Red really doesn’t join us in the field. It works well for the most part.” Artemis Crock answered.

“Oh! Cheshire’s sister. I thought you retired. Well, welcome back I guess. How’s training with Red going?” Jason answered. He remembered the blonde girl that Roy used to train with and invited to take care of Lian.

“How do you?!” Crock started but was cut off by another voice.

“They are undisciplined, loud, and the Canary wishes to speak with me constantly. They’d be dead if not for their abilities.”

“Ahhh, Princess! You found your next challenge! What are the odds at the moment?” Jason asked with a grin.

“I believe Diana has them running me off within a month of the new recruits joining. Donna thinks I’ll kill one of them as a warning to the others. Cassie’s bet is I’ll mellow out and will embrace man’s world.” Artemis answered with clear disdain at the last one.

“I’d choose Cassie then. Too optimistic and would be a clear warning to the others.” Jason answered with a full laugh.

“It is good to hear from you little one. There are those here that have missed your presence I’m told.” Artemis responded with warmth.

“They’re not why I’m calling. I wanted to invite you to Thanksgiving. I have a few announcements and would like you here.” Jason answered.

“Done! Where should I meet you?” Artemis answered. All he had to say was he was cooking and she would cross the planet to attend. His meals were to die for.

“I’ll pick you up at Titan’sTower. Just zeta in. Also pack for a cold weekend. I want to show you around after and we can try some winter sports.” Jason laid out.

“All right. I’ll see you soon then little one.” Artemis said with warmth still.

“Be seeing you Red.”

“She’s had a few thousand years to mellow, Jay. I doubt being around twenty to forty teenagers will change that. Plus, it sounds like Canary is trying to create the next big supervillain through encouraging mental health and communication.” Rose laughed. Jason just nodded and threw the stuffing and casserole into the oven.

“Ok, can you set the table while I go and grab our two weekend guests?” Jason asked as he removed his apron.

“Sure, I’ll check on the turkey as well. How are you going? I don’t think ‘exasperated cook’ is a good look” Rose answered as she got up and headed toward the table.

“I’ll throw on one of the older chest armor, masks, and hoods. They know I’m coming and it shouldn’t draw too much attention.” Jason explained as he made his way down toward the OPs center.

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Kori was stood in the zeta tube room of the tower. Awaiting the arrival of Artemis. She had met the amazon once or twice and enjoyed their conversations. She was a lot like if Jason had been raised as an amazon. Cold and closed off, but utterly good and kind underneath. It was a refreshing change from Donna’s constant playfulness and Cassie’s ceaseless optimism. She wouldn’t exchange them for the world, but it could be a bit much at times.

She clenched her bag strap that hung over her shoulder and the necklace around her neck. It was meant to help her blend in for some privacy in public. Dick had never had her use it when they were dating, but now it helped her find a new life outside of the Titans. She found she liked not worrying about how she would be perceived out of uniform. As those thoughts passed, the zeta tube powered on and Artemis stepped out. Carrying her own bag and a large axe on her other shoulder.

“Hello friend Artemis! It is good to see you again.” Kori greeted.

Artemis just gave a small smirk and said, “Good to see you too Kori. Any idea where Jason is going to drop us at?”

“I believe he said to just wait here and he’d be along shortly. I haven’t seen him in awhile, have you?” Kori asked. It’d been three years since she actually saw Jason in person. They talked on the phone all the time, but that was done secretly. She didn’t want to hurt Dick, or break Jason’s trust.

“I haven’t seen the little one in about three and a half years. We split off to pursue other goals and I haven’t talked to him in that time.” Artemis answered with a mild hum.

Before the conversation could continue the zeta tube powered back on. The announcement of classified rang through the room. Out stepped Jason, wearing a black hoodie over his old batless armor. His face covered by his half mask and domino.

“Hey ladies, it's really good to see you two again.” Jason greeted as he shifted in his chest armor. Neither woman responded as they took him in. He had grown a slight bit more. Now at six three or four and built like a tank. He had originally resembled Batman the last they saw him. His broad shoulders, height, and muscles drawing the comparison. Now, he reminded Kori of Deathstroke at his peak and Artemis of the old spartans. His armor obviously not quite fitting him correctly anymore, and the hoodie pulled taunt across his arms. He looked good.

“X'hal, Its good to see you Jason!” Kori said as she swept forward and wrapped him in a hug.

“Missed you too Kori.” Jason replied softly as he returned the embrace.

“You look like you’ve been busy. I didn’t think you could be any bigger, little one.” Artemis greeted behind the duo.

“Been training and working on myself, princess. I’m sure you’ll see for yourself once training starts with the new recruits in January.” Jason replied as he broke the hug and approached Artemis. He gave her the first move. It was an unspoken agreement that they had reached and was pleasantly surprised when she hugged him just as tightly as Kori.

“They’re going to put me in the grave, Jay. Claims of being grown and experienced are constant and Canary! I think she’s made me her personal mission or something.” Artemis vented with a half laugh.

“Sounds like you must have found something worth being apart of if you’re still there.” Jason replied knowingly. Artemis broke their hug and looked away toward the wall. A light blush on her face.

“When I offer praise, it reminds me of Biz when their faces light up.” She said quietly. Jason just rubbed her arm in a comforting gesture.

“I get it Art. I’m happy for you.”

“Where are we headed to Jaybird? I was promised an entertaining weekend?” Kori asked. Trying to lighten the mood.

“I can promise you an entertaining dinner. For Artemis at least.” Jason answered with a slight mumble of the last part.

Artemis, knowing his tells for being uncomfortable with something, asked, “Why would I be the only one entertained tonight?”

Jason took a deep breath and met Kori’s eyes. “I’ve invited you both tonight as I have three really important announcements tonight and you two are pivotal to it. We are having dinner with my Mother, Rose, and….. Slade Wilson.” Jason explained. Kori’s eyes just snapped open and stared at her adopted little idiot of a brother.

“Why is Slade at your Thanksgiving dinner?”

Taking another breath, Jason decided to finish digging the hole. “He is also part of the announcement. I can’t promise you a happy weekend, Kori. But it's an important one and I want you to know I’m very happy. Also, he’s retired, promised not to cause issues, and if he does…… There’s a very long line to smack him.”

Kori took that in and took a deep breath. “How long is he there for?” She asked.

“Just tonight, We have the weekend to ourselves.” Jason answered tentatively. Kori steeled herself once more. She hated the man, but could sit through one dinner. Plus, it sounded like Jason was well aware of her issues and was trying to be mindful of it.

“Fine. I can promise not to murder him for one night. But your announcements better be worth all the trouble, Jay.” Kori answered with a small frown.

“I’m sure they are, Kori” Jason said.

“Wait, haven’t you been hiding out for the last few years. How are you ok with talking about all this in Titan’s Tower. Muchless at all. I remember “Paranoid” being your middle and “Secretive” your last name.” Artemis interjected as she watched their discussion. She knew of Slade through Diana. He was apparently an assassin that had lost his way and was working to be more honorable. She never said he had retired.

Jason just turned and she could imagine the wide smirk on his face. “I’ve already looped the cameras and this zeta will be shut down for the weekend. A shame about those transport logs. But energy surges happen. Especially with the change of seasons.” He said as he pulled a grenade and gently tossed it in the air.

“Jay, I think an explosion is counter productive to your goal of secrecy.” Kori admonished.

“Right, there with you. This is an EMP grenade. Much more subtle.” Jason responded with a slight laugh. Kori merely rolled her eyes as she approached the tube.

“I’ve already programmed it. I’ll be right behind you both.” Jason said as he eyed the room. That sword was looking unloved, and why would Nightwing need more than one escrima stick.

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The trio emerged in the OPs room. All the additional armor and weapon racks were closed down to prevent unneeded questions. Jason quickly stripped the hoodie, armor, and mask off and set them in their designated rack. His new sword and stick discreetly joining them in their new home. He then led them up to his home. Kori reached the top of the stairs and immediately fell in love with the lived in and warm decor. It reminded her of some of the larger cabins on HGTV. She was only broken from her adoration by a slight bark and scampering of nails on hardwood. Bear rounded the corner in a clumsy mess of limbs and fur. Making his way to greet his human and his new friends that accompanied Jason.

“That is surprise number one. His name is Bear and he’s still a puppy. We just got him house trained, but we’re still working on the jumping.” Jason explained as he broke off from the group and made his way to the kitchen again. Kori just fell to her knees in a squeal of excitement and started petting the pup. Echos of “He’s so soft!” and “Whose a pretty puppy!” being heard from the tamaranean.

Artemis merely raised an eyebrow and passed by with a soft pat on the dog’s head. Making her way to follow Jason to the kitchen and to see the outside. She appreciated the home. It was much better than the apartments Jason had stayed in before. She was slightly caught off guard by the white-haired woman setting the table off of the kitchen. She had met Rose before, but she seemingly improved much like Jason. She was more shapely and obviously strong. It reminded her of some of her sisters, mainly Donna. Strong but still drop dead gorgeous, according to the men she interacted with.

“Hello Artemis, I hope you’ve been well.” Rose greeted as she finished setting the table.

“Hello Rose, you look good. Jason have you running his training route?” Artemis greeted back.

Rose just laughed with a small shaking of her head. “Not at the moment. We’ve cut back with the change in weather.” An obvious lie, but Artemis decided not to press. Jason threw himself into training like all other things, fully and totally. He wouldn’t accept any less.

Meanwhile, Jason was starting to heat up the potatoes and gravy while checking on the casseroles. Both of which were right on schedule and should be ready by the time everyone had arrived. He continued to stir while checking the time. He had about twenty minutes till Talia arrived and thirty till Slade. He missed Artemis’ eyes going wide at the sight of the mountains and snow. She had seen both before in her journeys, but had never thought of settling down in one of those valleys. Probably a consequence of both Themyscira and Bana-mighdall’s temperate climate. She continued to gaze at the mountains, when she spotted some movement on one of the slopes.

“Jay, where exactly are we?” she asked.

“Welcome to Colorado. Where high has more than one meaning and skiing is considered the state past time.” Jason threw over his shoulder. An orange and black blur zipped by in his peripheral vision, as Kori appeared next to Artemis. Hovering about an inch off the ground and Bear held tightly in her arms. Rose, nearly breaking out in hysterics at the dog’s look of “What the hell!”.

“It's so pretty Jason! Can we go up the mountain?” Kori asked as she took in the sight, a tone of a small child asking for candy.

“Tomorrow Kori, we have to have Thanksgiving first.” Jason said while thinking, ”And survive it.”

Quickly stirring the potatoes once more and checking the time again, he turned to Rose.

“Can you watch the food for a bit, honey? I’ll show them to their rooms and grab a quick shower.” Rose turned away from the two guests as they shifted their gaze to the rest of the home and outside space.

“Sure, can’t promise Bear won’t get any of it though.” Rose replied as she sauntered over.

“He’ll get some turkey too.” Jason said as he quickly pecked her lips and started his way to the living room.

“Come on ladies. It's a big house and you need to choose your new rooms.” Both guests turning to him as he continued toward the stairs.

Chapter 17: Thanksgiving PT.2

Chapter Text

Jason returned downstairs about ten minutes later. Dressed in nice, dark jeans and a red button up. His hair still slightly damp from his quick shower.

“The kitchens still here and your potatoes stirred. I take cash or card.” Rose snarked as he came back into the kitchen.

“Thanks. You should go shower and rescue Bear. I think Kori is about ten seconds away from taking off with him.” Jason chuckled. The dog in question being carried along on Kori’s journey to pick out a room. In all honesty he seemed to be having the time of his life. Probably the abnormal warmth Kori gave off and his belief that he was a lap dog. Leading to a very cozy puppy.

“I’ll go save the big baby. Let me know as soon as Talia is here.” Rose said as she made her way past him. Giving the man a light peck on the cheek as she went. She would never admit it, but she was scared of Talia’s opinion of her. They had met a few times of course, it wasn’t like Jason to keep stuff from Talia. But Rose could never get a good reading on the woman. Her expressions always seemingly reserved and voice giving no indication of her true feelings. She truly was raised to be the next League of Shadows leader. Which meant Rose didn’t know whether she would approve of her and Jason.

When she asked Jason about a year and a half ago what he thought, he said, “Well……… you’re not dead yet or have a team stalking you everywhere. So I think she’s ok with you. If she wasn’t, both you and I would know very quickly.” From then on, Rose worked to try to get to know the Al Ghul whenever she was around. Not that she was scared of the assassins mind you.

Rose clambered up the stairs as Jason stirred the pots once more and checked on the casseroles. Both cooking nicely. He reduced the heat to low and covered both the pots he had cooking. They would be fine till he had assembled everyone at the table. He then headed downstairs and into his garage. Pulling the turkey from the fryer to cool and set. Wrapping it in foil on its new serving plate, and carrying it back up the stairs to the kitchen. The smell permeating the home as he placed it on the island.

By this point Talia was due any minute and, being a good host, Jason waited for her at the zeta tube. Leaning against one of his closed off armory racks that held his many handguns and knives. A second later the zeta powered up. A blue glow leaking from the newly formed portal as Talia Al Ghul stepped through. She was dressed in a white blouse with black dress pants and shoes, looking every bit the CFO of Lexcorp she was.

“Habibi, it’s good to see you.” She greeted with a small smile. Jason returning the smile and pulling her into a quick hug. Surprising Talia as he wasn’t one for touching or hugging in general.

“Hi Umi. It’s good to see you too.” Jason said as he felt Talia return his hug. Much more tightly than he could remember.

They broke apart a second later as Talia took in the surrounding room.

“I see you added another row of lockers and cabinets. Although….. I still think a dark oak backing and light maple flooring would look much better here. More classy and dignified than the modern tech angle you’ve gone with.” Talia said as she slid her hand along the wall of arms. She had been here once or twice. The first time to meet Rose officially, and the other times mainly for Mother’s Day or her own birthday. Jason not letting her spend either day alone if he could help it. Jason looked up from his phone after sending an alert to Rose that Talia was here.

“We like the modern look. It helps focus us and get into the right headspace. Plus, it’s so modular that I can rip out what I don’t need and add in new storage when needed.” He said as he activated the wall section near Talia. Revealing his rifles and knives. All properly stored away with their corresponding clips and ammo. Talia just hummed as she ran a hand across his kris dagger. A piece that would never leave this room if Jason had his way. It was too personal to be used again. Both in good and bad ways.

Talia finished her examination of his gear and turned to him. “You’ve come so far Habibi. I’m glad to see you found ways to separate the job from your life. Your life was never meant to only be a job.” Talia said with her small smile again. Jason returning it again while motioning to the stairs in a silent direction for them to head up. Jason leading while Talia followed.

They reappeared in the kitchen. Rose checking on the two pots as they came up the stairs. She was now dressed in a pair of light blue jeans and a burgundy, asymmetrical, long sleeved tunic. Cut so the right cross ended at the start of her thigh and wrapped around until ending at her left jean pocket. Creating a triangular opening from the start of her thigh to the black belt with silver buckle. A classy, but still somewhat casual look for her. She turned and grasped Jason’s arms as they shared a quick kiss. Before maneuvering around him to greet Talia.

“Ms. Al Ghul. It’s good to see you again.” Rose said as she extended her hand. Talia’s eyes flicked downward before a slightly surprised look flashed behind her eyes. She looked back at Rose, and for the first time, Rose saw genuine warmth in her gaze.

Talia wrapped her in a hug and whispered, “Good to see you too……. Ibnati.” Rose floundering at the new title and hug, before returning the embrace.

“If you hurt him…..” Talia said just as quietly. Remembering the betrayal and pain Jason had endured before at the hands of his previous “family”.

Rose just chuckled quietly. “You’ll have first dibs.” They broke apart and Talia pulled her hand upwards, examining the ring. While Rose slightly blushed. She had forgotten to take the ring off, as it had become part of her daily life. It now reflecting the slowly dimming light, and shining a brilliant rose color. Talia was just as mesmerized by the changing color and glow as Rose was.

“You’re lucky my son reads as many romance novels as he does. I could see the ring coming from one of his books. Good choice Habibi.” Talia said as she looked away from the engagement ring. Jason now refocusing on the ladies, as he had been focused on pulling out and setting the casseroles on the table. With the potatoes and gravy following. He had one eyebrow raised before he noticed Rose’s hand in Talia’s and the ring shining brilliantly.

“I’ve always had good taste.” Jason said as he made his way over. Wrapping his arms around Rose’s middle and kissing her head.

“It would seem so……...” Talia said as she released Rose and admired the young couple.

Before a loud pounding of feet announced the…….. graceful arrival of Bear. Who bounded down the stairs and all but pranced up to Talia. Brown eyes conveying endless happiness and tail spinning like a helicopter rotor. Talia just raised an eyebrow at the ball of fluff. Reminding Jason of Damian when he first met Titus. The little assassin trying to convey being unimpressed, but already quickly falling to the whims of his dog. It was funny how alike Talia and Damian could be at times.

“That’s our new dog, Bear.” Jason said as Bear sat down with a light plop and began to lift and lower his front paws in a light prance. Excitement bleeding out at meeting his new friend. Talia crouched down and started scratching his ears. Causing him to fall over as he leaned into her hand. Talia transferring her pets to his now exposed belly. As Bear tried to nip at her hand, enjoying his favorite activity of belly rubs and teething.

“How old is he?” Talia asked, still surrendering to the whims of the puppy.

“We think he’s about fifteen weeks old now.” Rose said as she crouched down and started rubbing Bear’s ears. A smile on her lips as the puppy gazed up at them with his tongue flopping out of his mouth.

During this, Kori and Artemis had made their way downstairs as well. Both watching the puppy absorb the attention like a sponge. Talia glanced up and straightened back up. Jason walking between her and his friends as he started introductions.

“Kori, Artemis, this is Talia or T……. My mom.” He explained somewhat hesitantly. Not knowing what Kori or Artemis might do. Artemis approached first and pressed her right fist against her chest and bowed slightly. A traditional Amazonian greeting. v“Hello Ms. Al Ghul. It’s a pleasure to meet you after everything your son put me through.” She said lightly.

Talia bowed in return before saying, “Ms. Grace. I’ve heard a lot about you. Jason had a habit for jumping in first and solving things later, or never.” A slight smirk greeting the Amazon. v“I assure you, I always tried to stop him.” Artemis answered in faux tiredness.

“I’m sure you did. He is quite adept at not listening unfortunately.” Drawing a snort and smirk from Artemis, with Talia’s response.

Kori now appeared next to the Amazon. Hands held over one another in front of her and provided a slight bow as well. v“Greetings Ms. Al Ghul. It is most pleasant to meet you on this day of giving the thanks.” She said. Before Talia gave her a kind smile and wrapped her in a hug. vSpeaking in a quiet whisper, “Thank you for being there Kori.” Kori returned the hug with equal force. It had been a few rough years during Jason’s journey to conquer the pit. Constant fights against the villain of the week and emotional tolls they weren’t ready for. Jason still hadn’t recovered his memory he sacrificed. But since then, he's made amazing strides. This house and dog being great examples of his growth. She’d like to think Roy would be proud of him, conquering his fear and recognizing he needed to get away from Bruce. Her only regret was not helping him figure it out sooner.

Talia released her and stared at her for a few seconds. Some unspoken deal passing between the two. Before Bear jumped up Kori’s right leg. A slight whine emitting from the puppy, in an effort to be picked back up by the princess. Who immediately scooped him up. Talia scratching his ears and head as he was held in his new position.

“Alright everyone. Let’s get you all set up at the table, while Rose grabs Slade.” Jason said as his fiancée made her way to the OPs Center.

Jason led everyone to the table and pulled the turkey over to be carved.

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Slade had arrived in his normal civilian getup, a gray suit with white dress shirt, and was immediately met by Kori’s unrestrained glare. The tamaranean tightening her hold on Bear who was still seated upon her lap at the table. The puppy licked her chin in an effort to calm her. Taking away most of the heat of her glare. Slade only smirked and turned to Rose. v“A dog?” He asked.

Rose only smiled, “His name is Bear. He’s our new addition.” Slade responded with a low hum and surveyed the table.

“Ms. Al Ghul, always a pleasure.” He acknowledged with a nod. Talia nodded back with a small smile of her own. vSlade then turned to the rest of table, “Starfire and….. I don’t believe we’ve met.” He said as he studied the redhead at the end of the table. v“Artemis of Bana-Mighdall. I believe you’ve met my sister. Wonder Woman?” Artemis responded as she sized up the man in front of her. He really didn’t strike her as an assassin, more like a hitman or soldier. “

Yes I have. She and that lasso of hers are always interesting to fight. I’m sure you’ve experienced it.” He responded.

“I have. She seems to still be dropping her left arm I’ve noticed.” Artemis responded. “Still? I’m pretty sure I pointed that out to her in our last encounter.”

“And when was this?” Kori interrupted. Trying to remember the last time Deathstoke had fought the JLA and Titans.

Slade just smirked as he answered, “About four years ago. I think you were there. Something about an Atlantean invasion and a coup.” Kori could only grimace in distaste at the memory. Orm had ousted Aquaman from the throne and declared war on the surface world. Causing the JLA to respond when they made landfall on the east coast. The Titans had arrived shortly after the battle had started, and worked to prevent casualties on both sides. But they ran into an issue when they discovered that the on-site military forces were directly under the command of Waller. Who assigned Slade as her on-site lead. Strangely enough, the soldiers seemed to flock to his orders and directives. Moving quickly and ruthlessly to counter the invaders at every turn, and slowing the hero’s efforts as they did so. Dick still wasn’t over the amount of casualties Slade and his orders had inflicted on the Atlanteans that day. He took his issues to Waller, who said she could care less. It was war and Slade followed his orders to the letter and did what he was hired to do.

“Yes, I was. I believe that they are still rebuilding the warehouses you blew up.” Kori said. Continuing to glare as Slade actually chuckled.

“Ok…….Slade. You’re next to Artemis and Rose.” Jason interjected. Deciding he would be the one to try and keep the peace tonight…….. “oh my god I’m becoming Dick.” He thought in horror as he started to carve the turkey. Letting everyone else dish out the other sides as he worked. Slade made his way over to his seat, eye still on Kori as she lowered Bear to the ground. Rose broke his stare with a sharp pinch to his elbow as she took her seat next to him. Drawing his attention to his daughter. Watching as she dished potatoes and then turned to him with her own glare. Wordlessly indicating his chair and forcing him to sit.

Within a few minutes everyone had loaded plates and were soundlessly digging in. As they ate, Artemis watched on as Jason held a silent conversation across the table with Rose. Most likely trying to figure out how to get through the meal without it being any more awkward. Strangely, Slade and Talia seemed to be doing the same. But theirs in amusem*nt at the night so far. Both knowing that this dinner was going to be interesting with the Titan.

Deciding to take mercy on her son and fiancée, Talia waited till most were almost done with their food and asked, “So what’s the big announcement that you invited us all out for?” Jason jerked out of his silent conversation and slowly looked at the rest of the table. Everyone looking at him expectantly. He signed real quickly before standing back up and reaching to pull Rose from her chair. Then as one, the couple turned to the table.

“Firstly, we have multiple announcements. The first you have all met, Bear is our new puppy.” The puppy sending out a small yap at his name. As he maneuvered to Slade’s side and looked up demanding food.

“The second, as some of you have already figured out, I’ve asked Rose to marry me and she said yes.” Jason said as he pulled Rose into a one armed hug and Rose conformed to his side. Artemis had her eyes blow wide as Kori gapped at the couple. Then in an instant, Kori was wrapping Jason in a tight hug as she spun into the air.

“This is most wonderful Jason!” She said as excitement overtook her. She never thought Jason would find someone that could challenge him, and she still had reservations about Rose. But damn it if she wasn’t willing to be happy for him. Setting him down and moving to Rose.

Wrapping her in a hug as well to her surprise before whispering, “I’m truly happy for you…… But if you hurt him, I’ll come for you.”

“You’ll have to get in line. Talia called first dibs.” Rose quietly snarked. Drawing a smile from Kori as she released her.

Artemis made her way over a second later. Wrapping Jason in another hug and whispering, “Told you it would all work out. I’m glad you found your peace.”

Jason absorbed that before whispering back, “You did, and I’ll be with you till you find yours and long after.” Pulling a rare smile from the Amazon.

Artemis then released her and wrapped Rose in a hug as well. “Congratulations. I’m so happy for you.” Artemis whispered.

“Thank you. I’ll admit, I’m surprised you haven’t threatened me yet.” Rose responded.

Artemis could only lightly chuckle at that. “I believe Kori and Talia probably have that covered. If not I can always round up a war party. It would be good training.” Artemis said as Rose laughed lightly at that.

Slade and Talia meanwhile watched on with knowing smiles. Slade, having known the second Jason had called a few weeks ago. They were happy that their children found someone they approved of. A rare thing for either parent, as they were very protective of their family. No matter how strained relations could be at times.

Before the conversation could shift to wedding plans and a possible date. Rose spoke up, “We have one more announcement.” Quickly making it back to her fiancé’s side.

She looked around and spoke, “I found out about a week before Jason did, who I told after he proposed. I’m pregnant and I’m about three months along!” A smile lighting up her face as she spoke. Which quickly made its way onto Jason’s. Slade’s eye blew wide and his jaw fell slightly. The most surprised Jason had ever seen from the man. Talia’s eyes were blown just as wide. Seemingly frozen as she stared at them. Artemis and Kori openly gapped. Within seconds, Talia recovered and stood up. Making her way to Jason and pulling him down into the tightest hug he’s ever had. A slight dampness appeared on his shoulder.

“Habibi, I’m so so happy for you. I’ve seen you with Damian and the orphans. You’re going to be a great father.” Talia said. Jason felt the full blown smile she had as she clinged to him.

At the same time. Slade had wrapped his daughter in just as tight of a hug. He whispered, “I’m happy for you Rosey. It’s ok to be a bit scared, but I know you two will be great parents.” Rose was still smiling as tears poured out. An unknown weight being lifted from Slade’s words. The parents released their children and moved to their soon to be in-laws hugging and congratulating them as well.

Slade told Jason, “I know I don’t have to worry, but I’m still her father. Hurt her, I bury you, again.”

Which drew a laugh from Jason. “I’ll hand you the shovel. We have a lot to figure out, but we’ll get there.”

The couple disengaged from their in-laws and turned to Artemis and Kori. Who were both sporting wide smiles of their own. Jason then spoke, “Ladies we have one more thing. But it’s a question. Would you two like to be their godmothers when they get here? Being an aunt is non negotiable.” A smirk on his face as Kori all but exploded in happiness. She had learned of the practice during her time with the Titans and helping with Lian.

“Of course! I can’t wait to meet them.” She said as she once again hugged Jason and Rose. Artemis on the other hand looked a bit more grave.

“I’m honored and would love to be their godmother.” She said as she gave them both an Amazon salute. Giving her word as an Amazon and making it an unquestionable duty in her mind. Both Jason and Rose understanding the weight she just placed upon herself with her pledge. Each of them giving the Amazon a hug in turn.

Slade eyed them as they finished up their celebration. A smirk came to his face as he watched. Along with a plan that would help set the couple on the right track.

“I’m happy for you two. But I’d like to make a little wadger. I bet $100 the kid’s first word will be “f*ck”.” He said as Talia had her own smirk appear.

“Make it a $1,000.”

Both Kori and Artemis looked over with wide smiles of their own as the couple leaned against one another. An affronted expression on both their faces. v“We aren’t that bad. I seem to remember not teaching Damian to swear.” Jason defended. Talia just gave him a knowing look that had him trying to recall every conversation he had with the Demon Brat.

“He called a trainer a pretensious f*ck stick that was beneath the notice of street walkers.” Talia deadpanned. Which made Jason a bit proud and disappointed at the same time.

“To be fair, kid. Rose is a walking thesaurus of curses.” Slade chimed in.

A mumbled, “Those f*ckers deserved it.” Came from Rose.

“I believe Biz also knew a few curses during our time with him. You’re a bad influence Jay.” Artemis lightly spoke.

Drawing and long sigh and sarcastic “Your input has been noted and unappreciated, Red. Glad you could be here.” from Jason. Kori just laughed, remembering him fixing up stuff around Roy’s place. Lian had learned four new words and how to properly use them………. Which she promptly did the following week at school. It was a good week all around after that. Jason being forced to cook for them in apology and having to explain to Lian why those words were bad. While Roy disassembled Jason’s motorcycle and hid it around his house. Forcing Jason to search for each individual part and rebuild it from the ground up.

“Sounds like you need a swear jar then, kid.” Slade pointed out. With a nodding Talia beside him. Confusing the hell out of the couple as they thought the two wouldn’t get along. Now they were teaming up to railroad a swear jar into their home and had been cordial to one another all night.

“Ok noted, but can we back up. Why are you two on the same page, much less the same book.” Jason asked.

Slade and Talia just looked at one another briefly before answering, “We know you two.” at the same time. Which, the couple couldn’t respond to. Both sporting wide eyes, knowing they were right.

“Do we have any pie Jay?” Kori asked. Redirecting the conversation and saving the couple from any more observations from their parents. Drawing genuine grins of victory from said parents.

“Yep, let me go get it.” Jason said as he detangled from Rose and made his way back to the kitchen. When we reappeared he had to pause. Watching Talia, Artemis, and Rose in a conversation about wedding colors and potential kid names. While Slade had somehow engaged Kori in a conversation about raising kids and living with Jason. It looked a bit awkward, but both were trying to find a middle ground. It struck him then that he had built a new family. Sure it was still a work in progress and had some issues to work out. But every family did. It was when Rose looked over that he decided then and there, this is his and damn anyone that tries to take it from him.

Chapter 18: Lost and Found

Chapter Text

December 15th

Jason and April Wolf were crouched on the distant mountainside in Qurac. The cold wind buffeted their armor and gear as snow fell and covered the mountainside. Concealing their position and allowing the two to monitor the isolated base below them. It wasn’t as large as their standard bases, nor as open. Mainly housing two landing pads for choppers and one road in and out. The rest of the structure was a small maze of connected buildings and warehouses. Reminding Jason of some of the bases he dealt with during his time as Red Hood.

He shifted as he continued his scan of the base with his built in image enhancers. Switching between thermal, electrical, and normal views. April doing the same in the other direction. April had been with the Nemesis program as long as he had. An ex-army ranger, she quickly became one of the program’s top CQC specialists. Preferring to utilize dual axes and pdws, to the standard knife and rifle most were accustomed. Slade had worked with her further to turn her into a one woman army. Expanding her weapon knowledge and setting her against more exotic fighting styles. Like Rose’s dual sword and pistol. Which naturally led to the two interacting on the regular. Becoming fast friends and competitors. Which then made her Jason’s go to, for any missions that he and Rose couldn’t handle together. Her aggressive fighting style paired with theirs to form a three person fireteam. Code named Silver Bullet, or just Silver on comms.

Jason inhaled slowly as he tracked the two guards turn the corner and continue to the automatic door. Which was flanked on both sides by posted sentries. They had been HALO dropped in ten hours ago. Waller and her men had found the elements through their interrogation of the two survivors and examination of the dead at the research station. She then decided to offer Jason a new deal, after learning that Rose was pregnant from Slade. Jason and Rose would have a guaranteed, paid year off, if he helped her get the elements back. A deal they jumped at, knowing that he and Rose would need the time later down the line in her pregnancy, and the first few months with the baby. Plus, they really didn’t have the need for the time off at the moment. So here he was. Stalking fanatics, who they still didn’t have a name for, in the middle of a mountain range. Hoping to be home in time for Christmas.

“I’ve got heat sigs on the slope to our two thirty.” April reported as her own helmet zoomed in on the blob of orange, before switching to standard view. Jason shifted and zoomed in, catching sight of blonde hair and a woman in a white and gray body suit. Face covered in a pointed mask, resembling a tiger. He then saw another white figure next to her. A white hood and cape draped over them. Breaking up their silhouette. Before another shape shifted next to them and a young man with a white snow cap and winter gear appeared. The three huddled behind the one of the many rocks and snowdrifts that surrounded the base and concealed them from the guards. But they were visible to Jason and April’s position, as they naturally flanked them. Jason zoomed in on the man’s face, trying to confirm what he already knew. The man turned his head, speaking to the hooded figure, and Jason cursed the world silently. Conner f*cking Kent was in Qurac with Young Justice.

“Silver to Red Crown. We have confirmation of Young Justice on-site. We currently have eyes on Tigress, Super-boy, and presumed Red Robin.” Jason spoke. His mind trying to figure out how the group had tracked the elements here. Knowing their methods, he guessed Oracle or someone else had managed to hack their files and sent the intel up the chain. April shifted next to him. Stretching her limbs slowly and carefully as to not draw attention. Jason started doing the same. Both knowing that this operation had probably just become a race.

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Tim cursed Barbara and Bruce silently in his head as he organized his team from their perch overlooking the back of the base. His eyebrows turning white as snow landed in his hood and its chill seeped into his greaves as he crouched. Artemis Crock, or Tigress, seemed to be handling it a lot better than him. Her face frozen in her normal glare and tight lips. Connor, the bastard, didn’t even look cold. His usual scowl was in place as they waited for M’gann to lead the others to them. Cassie and Jaime being unused to the cold and stealth operations in the laters case. While bio ship waited patiently on the other side of the mountain. Invisible to the world in its small clearing the team had hiked from.

He started his third scan of the below base as his mind worked to develop a plan to get in and out undetected. The team had been given this mission a little over thirteen hours ago. Batman informing them of a collection of elements that needed to be captured to prevent their use in a weapons program. What he had neglected to tell the team was that the United States government was actively and ruthlessly searching for the same elements. It becoming their number one priority in recent weeks. It left a bad taste in Tim’s mouth when he had learned this through his own, brief, investigation into the mission. He didn’t like that it seemed they were actively working against the US, no matter what the mission might be. But he did agree that the potential of the elements was too dangerous to be left alone. So here they were, freezing on the side of a mountain. Joy.

Tim was pulled from his thoughts when Conner disappeared next him. A slight oof erupting from Connor as Cassie slid down the slope and swept his legs out from under him. Her giggling as she came to a stop against the snow drift. Tim quickly looked back up and frantically scanned. Hoping beyond hope that no one had seen that. Crock doing the same next to him.

“Damn it Cassie.” Connor cursed as he returned to his crouch, starting his own scan.

“Are you alright?” M’gann asked as she appeared to Connor’s right, pulling Cassie up.

“I’m fine. I just lost my footing a bit.” Cassie said as she brushed off her bracers and checked her lasso.

“Get it together then. We almost got caught because of that.” Crock admonished. Turning her glare on the Amazon. Cassie merely just stuck her tongue out at her and Tim bit back a sigh.

“Alright, get over here so I can tell you all the plan.” He said as he activated his gauntlet. He rendered the base in front of them and held it out for the group to see.

“I see three main entrances. One at the helipads, one at the vehicle bay, and the final one here.” He said has the doors in question flash a brilliant red in the hologram. “M’gann, I want you to knock out the two guards stationed here and then act as a scout for the rest of us. Once we’re in, Cassie will split off with Artemis and Connor with me. We don’t know exactly where the elements are, so we’ll need to be quick and quiet. Jaime you have the perimeter. If they get past us, it’s on you.” His eyes focusing on the other winter gear dressed man next to Cassie. Who nodded even as he shivered in the cold.

“Uh….. Tim.” Artemis interrupted next him. Looking off toward the planned door.

“One second Artemis. I’ve configured your wrist pads to detect high amounts of energy. I’m hoping that they will pick up the elements but I’m not certain. So be careful when you’re……”

“Tim!” Artemis snapped at him. An uncharacteristic growl in her voice.

“What Artemis?!” Tim snapped back. Looking over at the woman who was standing and peering at the door.

“The guards are down.” She said as she watched the door.

“What?!” Tim asked as he scrambled up next to her. Enhancing his own zoom within his domino mask. What he found was two men crumpled on the ground. Their rifles lay untouched in the snow next to them, and bright red blotches painted on the wall behind where they were stood.

A second later, their comms buzzed as Barbara connected.”Attention team, we’re tracking one blackhawk and two apache gunships on a beeline to your position. ETA fifteen minutes” she spoke as Wayne Tech satellites followed the mission from above and tracked the incoming aircraft.

Tim froze for less than a second before growling out, “sh*t.” Then taking off at a sprint down the mountain with his team right behind him.

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Ten minutes ago

Jason and April descended from their observation point. The cloak masking their movements as they low crawled toward the two guards. Pausing to line up their shots. Jason radioed back to Waller and their support team.

“Silver to Red Crown, waiting for your go.” Meanwhile, back in the states, a team of professional electronic warfare specialists worked to crack the base’s network. Using the wrist computers both Jason and April had as connection points.

“Red Crown to Silver, we have access to the network. Please wait while we analyze the layout and try to locate the objective.” Waller spoke as the blueprint and holographic map formed on their screens. The many pathways overlapping and weaving through one another.

Jason switched to his and April’s frequency. “Once we have an idea where the elements are, it’s going to be a sprint. We can’t stop till we’re in the same room as the elements.” He said as he eyed his guard.

“Rodger. I’ve been itching to stretch my legs. Observation has never been my thing.” April responded. Drawing a small smirk from Jason.

“No, that’s always been Agent Snarp. I never understood how that man could sit still for hours and focus on his target. Yet when he’s left in a chair for more than two minutes, he’s out like a light.” Jason said as April gave him a light hum.

“Silver, we’re marking where we think the elements are. Be advised, we have reason to believe additional metas are on-site and you are clear and hot. Evac is enroute, ETA eighteen minutes.” Waller spoke as a waypoint appeared on their hud.

“Rodger Red Crown. Transfer us to the navigator and lockdown all the doors behind us. Silver team out.” Jason said as he steadied his breathing.

“On mark, three, two, one, mark.” He counted down. Two silent coughs erupting from their rifles as the rounds shot through the guard’s heads. Jason and April up and sprinting through the now open door. Their cloak distorting wildly as they moved, creating a fast moving series of waves in the air.

“Move straight for three doors. Then take the first left.” The monotone voice echoed in their ears as they ran down the hallway. It’s dull gray walls and black pipes being broken up by the colorful red line painted in the center of the floor. Silver Team moved through the first interior door with no issues, but the second opened unexpectedly. Two other guards heading out to start their rounds. April opened up first, her ump hosing the two in a wall of bullets. With Jason following up with a series of bursts. Ensuring the men would stay down. They passed by and refocused on the next and final door. Slowing in preparation to make their turn.

The door opened to a series of three other hallways. One to the left, one on the right, and the last continuing forward. Jason hugged the left wall and swept forward. Clearing the hallway and providing cover for their advance. Multiple doors lining the hallway.

“Head to the end of the hall and take a right.” The voice instructed. The two Agents rapidly advance as quietly as possible. This time, April hugging the wall and sweeping forward. Her pdw opening up again on another guard that was making her way down the hall. Jason brushed past and dropped two final rounds into the guard as April reloaded behind him. Both not pausing or waiting for a response.

“Head straight till you see a green line leading right.” Jason glancing down and noticing yellow and red parallel lines marked on the floor.

At the first intersection, Jason panned left as April took the right. Being met by two guards advancing on him with shouldered rifles. He immediately opened up on them as their minds worked to process the distortion in front of them. Cutting them down with a wall of lead as he swung back to the center hallway. April keeping pace. The next intersection was quiet and the final intersection had the line they were looking for. April pausing as Jason completed a quick scan down left and center hallway as he recentered his sights on their objective. Both advancing at once as before.

“The first room on the left. We’re picking up a level of energy behind that door and its location indicates a possible lab. Be advised we don’t have any eyes inside.” Jason stacking up in the left side of the door in question as April circled around him to stack up on the right.

“Rodger, Red Crown.” Jason said as he dropped his cloak and counted down silently to April with his left hand. The door sliding open as the two agents burst through.

“What the hell are you guys?” A tall blonde man growled at them from his place on an office chair. A similar looking blonde woman straightening from her position of leaning on an office desk across from him. Eyes narrowing as a snarl formed on her lips. Both were dressed in black pants and shoes, with a white shirt, the sleeves cut off.

“I’m guessing they’re the new power rangers Gizmo kept crying about.” She said as she cracked her knuckles. Her brother towering over her from behind.

Jason quickly switched to April’s private frequency again and explained, “The Terror Twins. They have super strength and durability.”

“Noted, I’ll take the girl. Mark?”

“Mark.” Jason responded as April dashed past him. Tuppence responding in kind and tackled her over one of the desks.

Tommy meanwhile began to circle with Knight. The agent already holstering his rifle and drawing his knife in his right hand.

“Mammoth was an idiot. Always more focused on the next meal. We’re much more dangerous.” Tommy taunted. His muscles rippling as he readied himself to strike. Jason just glared. Waiting for the man to lunge forward. He barely had to wait a second longer as Tommy launched into the air, his fist denting the floor in front of where Jason was supposed to be. But the agent saw that coming. Already rolling forward and slicing his knife upward as he landed. Catching the man’s left calf as he backed up and readied for his next strike.

Tommy howled in pain. Before he spun around and lashed out with a right hook. Following it up with a series of three hooks, trying to catch the agent. Who weaved and redirected his strikes, armor slowly glowing as it absorbed the energy from Tommy’s strikes.

“Shot!” Rang out from Jason’s comms. April dodging her own attacker’s blows and maneuvering her into a clear sightline. As she pulled her two axes and readied for her own strike. Jason responded instantly. His training taking hold. He landed a right hook, disorienting Tommy and then spun. Drawing his pistol in his left hand and immediately emptying the clip at Tuppence’s face and eyes. Making it difficult for the woman to defend herself, as she flailed to cover her face.

“Mark!” Jason called out. Indicating April’s opening.

April clambered forward. Using her energy to drive an axe into the woman’s left shoulder. Before using it to drag the woman downwards into her rising knee. Drawing a sharp crack that echoed through the room as she shattered the twin’s nose. Jason had meanwhile ejected his spent clip and rolled again. Dodging another swipe from the man as he roared in anger.

“I’m going to crush you!” Tommy called as he advanced. Swipes and strikes came faster and harder as the man became more enraged.

“Red Crown to Silver. Be advised, Young Justice has made it through the first door. Evac seven minutes.” Waller’s voice rang out. As Jason just countered a right hook and lashed out with his own right punch to Tommy’s gut. Sending the man flying back into the desks. He then extended his left arm blade and advanced on the downed man. Who was making his way back to his feet. Stopping a few feet away as he waited for April.

April had at the same time created her own distance with Tuppence. She slowly rotated around the woman, until she was back to back with Jason. The twins looking around them to one another before both nodding in some unspoken plan. Tommy rose first. Flying forward and trying to land a hook to Jason’s helmet. Who had crouched and rotated left around April. Who did the same in the opposite direction. Driving her axe into Tommy’s gut as Jason did the same to Tuppence with his arm blade. Standing back into a fighting stance and pulling his blade free as Tuppence lashed out like a wounded animal. Redirecting and countering each attack as she flailed. New slashes and cuts appearing with each strike. April had meanwhile abandoned her axe to the man’s gut. Striking Tommy’s nose with the top of her other axe before landing a kick to the head of the embedded axe. Driving it in further.

She then dropped her right handed axe so she was holding it directly below the axe head. Slicing and cutting with each counter and deflection of Tommy’s strikes. Eventually the twins backed off again. Clutching their wounded stomachs as Jason and April returned to their original back to back position. Watching the rapid rise and fall of their opponent’s shoulders, or shoulder in Tuppence’s case. The twin’s anger and hate bleeding from their eyes as they stared down the Agents.

“I’m going to tear your head off!” Tuppence spat. Jason and April both ignored the threat. Both having heard worse from better. Without another word, the twins charged a final time.

Jason crouching low and dragged his knife across Tuppence’s stomach as she engaged. Before quickly driving the knife back upwards. Between her ribs and into her left lung. Before pulling it free again. Watching as the woman collapsed and then he kicked her across the room. Driving the remaining air from her lungs as she gasped for air.

April had at the same time landed a karate chop to Tommy’s throat. As he had tried to swipe at her again. Standing the man up as he gasped for air. She then quickly advanced and swung her axe in a backwards swing. The handle sliding out as she extended the head and embedded it in the man’s left throat. Causing blood to flood out as he began to gurgle and fell to his knees. April then ripped the axe free, before grabbing her other axe and tearing it across his body. Freeing it and mortally wounding the man again. As Tommy fell forwards and a pool of blood began to expand.

April and Jason then flicked their weapons again, clearing them of blood and sheathed them in one motion. As they peered around the room for their prize.“Eyes on objective.” Jason reported as he made his way across the room and grabbed the container from its place on a table. Examining it for any damage, before attaching it to his belt. Shouldering his rifle again as April stacked up on the door again. Her own rifle ready for action.

“Silver to Red Crown. Ready for Evac.”

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Five minutes after Jason and April had engaged the Terror twins

Tim skid to a halt outside the base door. Both guards clearly dead to well placed headshots. He noted as he powered up his gauntlet again and began to override the door controls. His team formed up behind him as he worked. But surprisingly he wasn’t making much progress. The network actively fighting against him and constantly trying to disconnect him.

“O, what’s up with this network? I’m having trouble getting in.” He asked into his comm.

Barbara’s voice responded quickly, “I don’t know Red. It’s fighting me too. I think you’ll be on your own, until I can break through.” Tim only nodded before giving up on the endeavor. Powering off the gauntlet and turning to Connor.

“Smash through.” As he retreated off to the side.

Connor only smirked before stepping forward and laying into the door. Smashing it open in a few seconds. Tim just pointed to his head as he rushed in. His team following as Connor led them. Sprinting forward and smashing the next door. Followed by the next. They slowly passed the two downed guards. Both clearly dead from the amount of bullets pumped into them.

“They're on the clock.” Tim thought as it echoed out to his team. M’gann mind linking them.

Connor smashed down the next door to an intersection. All the doors closed off and giving no indication of which way to go. Tim pulled his scanner and waved it around. It pinging around the left door. So he motioned to said door and watched as Connor smashed it down. Before rushing through again, as he waved the scanner around. It pinging towards his right and thus having Connor repeat the process at the end of the hall.

They repeated this process over and over at each intersection. Until they found their first open doorway. The team quietly stacked up before rushing into the room. Tim was immediately drawn to the mess of papers and smashed desks within. His eyes scanning the room as the team did the same.

“f*ck!” Artemis whispered shouted. Eyes locked on the body of Tommy Terror. A large puddle of blood surrounding him. Tim advanced forward as Connor drifted off toward the wall. A confused look on his face.

Tim crouched down and pressed two fingers to Tommy’s neck. Not feeling a pulse and seeing the glassed over look in his eyes.

“sh*t! Red, I need you here!” Connor actually shouted. Crouched over another body and pressing down on one of her wounds. Artemis joining him and starting a series of bandages and wrappings. While the blonde woman looked up, a look of panic in her eyes as she panted quickly and shallowly. Tim slid to a crouch next to the woman. Pulling his own supplies and working as quickly as he could to try and save Tuppence.

“Wonder Girl and Ms. Martian! Get outside and call bio ship!” Tim called, knowing Jaime was too new to understand how to communicate with the ship. Before switching on his comms.

“O and Jaime! We have a patient in critical condition! I’m calling off the mission!”

“Uh Red? The scarab is getting a bit agitated. It says it’s detecting two high level threats closing in.” Jaime’s nervous voice called out.

“O here, I’m seeing the apaches and blackhawk closing in. Whose in critical condition?” She asked as Tim heard a clacking of keys.

“Tuppence Terror. I’m guessing a collapsed lung and abdominal stab wound. Jaime, get out of the area. We’ll find you later.” Tim said as he continued to work. Looking around for a makeshift stretcher.

“What about her twin?” Oracle asked.

“He’s dead. Most likely rapidly bled out based on his lack of jugular.” Artemis gritted out in response. Stabilizing Tuppence below her, before administering a sedative. Watching as the woman’s eyes rolled back in her head.

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Cassie ran through the halls. M’gann simply choosing to phase through the ceiling and taking off toward bio ship. She crashed through another door. Her scanner beeping loudly as she closed in on the elements. She knows Tim called off the mission, but he sent her to go with M’gann. Probably to clear a way out for the rest, but who said she had to go back the way they came? Plus this way was clearly faster. No turns or intersections to cause confusion. She thought as she smashed through the final door. A cold blast of air assaulting her as she emerged outside.

She finally looked around and noticed the bodies of the other guards scattered about. All of them seemingly moving toward one position. Which turned out to be one of the two helipads. As she heard a final burst of gunfire and a body slumped down. Before tilting to its left and falling off the side of the platform. Two black armored figures beyond. Both crouched shoulder to shoulder and scanning for threats. Before she had a chance to call out or even move, a loud roar of multiple rotors swooped in over her. Two apaches sweeping in fast and low before peeling off in separate directions to establish air dominance. The blackhawk swiftly followed. Its pilots swinging the bird around and dropping down onto the helipad. The two figures quickly loading up as the door gunner held his gaze on her.

She was in awe at the amount of firepower on display. Still not used to man’s world of weapons and gear. Suddenly, one of the armored figures appeared crouched on her side of the chopper. Seemingly watching her as the helicopter lifted off. Shortly after, Tim and his group shouldered past her. Only quickly glancing at the retreating chopper, as bio ship roared over the mountain. Settling on the same pad, as the group sprinted toward it. Tuppence held between Connor and Artemis on the top of a desk.

“Let’s go Cassie!” Tim yelled as he bounded up the stairs. Cassie shaking out of her stupor and climbing up after them. As their own ship took off and began a low circle.

Watching as the two apaches began their first attack run. Launching missiles and starting to level the base. Most of the team in awe at the level of explosives and destruction as they fled toward the border for a zeta tube.

Chapter 19: Jump!

Chapter Text

December 17th

Jason and April stood side by side on the runway. April barely reaching his shoulder as they examined the C-17 Globe Master in front of them. Its rear door already open and accommodating the constant buzz of men entering and exiting in their final preparations before take off. The interior was completely open. Only allowing for the crew seats lining the outer walls and a final bench positioned on the wall near the stairs to the co*ckpit. It mildly bothered Jason that they weren’t going to transport other equipment with them. His frugal mind being a product of his childhood. But, he guessed it wasn’t his budget or his problem.

He hefted the armored case, encased in a standard duffle bag, they’d been given to protect the elements. It’s weight being distributed across his body with the sling. Before he marched into the plane. April trailing after silently. Both nonplussed at the sight of another cargo jet. They made their way to the bench nearest the co*ckpit. Instincts screaming to have a good vantage point of the room, without compromising their position. Most would call it paranoia, Jason and April called it a healthy bit of skepticism.

Jason dropped the bag and slid it under the seat before practically dropping into the seat. April descended next to him. Quiet and relaxed.

“You’d think we’d get a private jet or something. Much more subtle.” April thought a loud as she settled in. Crossing her legs and leaning back with her arms crossed.

“I don’t know, it can’t get more subtle than a standard supply run.” Jason shrugged. Reviewing the manifest on his HUD. They were supposed to be accompanied by a team of Deltas. Callsign “Whisper”.

“A bit dramatic.” Jason thought, before remembering Slade literally named his team Silver Bullet. Both an insult and badge of honor. Never let it be said the man didn’t have humor or love of double entendres.

“We have the budget to kill god and we can’t afford one private jet?” April huffed, an obvious pout in her tone.

“You must have been living the high life with the Rangers if that’s your view. Did they provide armored limos and champagne too.” Jason deadpanned. Receiving a side glare from the woman. Her hazel eyes hidden behind her helmet.

“Ya, it came with blackjack and hookers too.” She responded sarcastically. Earning a snort from Jason.

“Next mission we’ll just take a jet from the CIA. I hear they get poker.” Jason smirked. He always enjoyed the banter his fellow agents could come up with. It was a lot like working with Roy again. April just hummed before watching as a full kitted team made their way up the ramp. Their captain making a beeline toward the two agents.

“Look alive.” Jason sighed into his comms as he stood.

“Can’t, I’m dead inside.” April shot back as she stood.

The captain had reached them by this point. Snapping off a salute and quickly receiving two in turn from the agents.

“Captain Del, sir. I hear we're escorting a high priority package?” The captain asked as they all lowered their salutes. His tan skin and dark hair made Jason think he was probably of Egyptian descent. Not that he could tell with the balaclava covering everything below his eyes. Which were a bright, pale blue.

“Yep, highly classified. But we’re not expecting anything, this route is very standard.” Jason explained as the man nodded along.

“Understood. My men could use the downtime.” Del said as he motioned to his men. Who were already working to strap themselves in. Backpacks and bags being quickly storied away as they organized themselves. Jason gave the captain a curt nod before settling back in himself as the man retreated to his troops. The rear door closing.

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It was about eight hundred miles and two hours later when Jason snapped out of filing his paperwork. His suit apparently losing connection to the plane’s network. A not uncommon occurrence, but still annoying. April fidgeting next to him as her audiobook is cut off. Jason just took a moment to watch the other passengers in the cargo bay. Most talking with one another, or laughing at something the other said. They seemed plenty relaxed. Except for one guy. He was sitting on the last seat nearest the door. His head turned slightly toward them before looking across at Del. Who seemed to be completely relaxed, if a little blank faced. Deciding to try and ask April what she thought was up. He switched to their private comms. It wouldn’t be the first time she was checked out or hit on by someone thinking a special ops woman was hot. Rose had enough stories to write several books.

But when he switched over, all he received was static. Which instantly raised his guard. These suits were designed to function completely independently of any network. Allowing agents quick and easy communication, even if cutoff from the rest of the world. He tapped April’s leg lightly. Pulling her attention toward him before subtly motioned toward his right hand.

Signing quickly, “Comms are out.” Her body visibly tensed as she looked about. Quickly scanning the others and noticing not one of them had raised an alarm. All seemingly deep in conversation, not one man on his phone. An unlikely rarity. It was then that she noticed something else. Each one of them had a dark blue cloth wrapped around one of their biceps. They had initially dismissed it as a unit tradition. But now it screamed wrongness to her. Jason followed her thoughts as he read the body language more closely. Each man was spread out on their benches. More than a few shoulder lengths between each Delta, if they weren’t sitting directly next to one another.

It wouldn’t normally interest him. Knowing how he liked to spread out or group up with his fellow agents during overseas travel. But their bodies screamed, “too casual”. Like they were forcing conversation. While at the same time trying to ensure they didn’t encroach on each other's space. Arms and legs never straying too far from their original positions. Jason switched over to thermal vision. The entire area lighting up in a dull hue of oranges and yellows. A large blob appearing where the Deltas originally sat. But the blobs were unbroken and much larger than Jason thought they would be. He understood men got hot in their gear, but this was too much. He couldn’t isolate one man from another, a wave of heat disguising their position.

He then switched to their version of detective vision. Called electric. As it combined the bat’s vision with the additional benefit of isolating electrical impulses and computers. But Jason could care less about the science right now. His vision showing him the skeletons of the men in front of him…….. and twelve others. Splayed in the empty spaces between the men.

His mind began to race and plot. Already knowing April was going to have to be the one to secure the co*ckpit. Her armor was good, great even. But it was still only titanium. It could withstand quite a few hits, but not the amount of lead that was about to start flying if the men’s heart rates were any indication. He tapped her again, a determined glare coloring her pale features behind the helmet.

She watched as Jason signed, “Twelve unknowns. Deltas know something.” Her helmet was still looking toward them as her eyes shifted back and forth from Jason and the threat.

She returned, “Pilots?”

Jason shrugged before signing back, “I don’t think so. Why bother with all the men if you could just land and hose us then. Secure it.” April lightly nodded as if she had a sudden thought as she pulled herself toward the stairs. A few men leering after her.

Jason waited till he heard the door opening and closing quickly upstairs. A few more of the men now turning to stare at him. Anticipation held in their gaze.

“Captain?!” Jason called out. His distorted voice surprised a few, as they didn’t expect such a menacing tone. Del just turned to him, his gaze held steady.

“Yes sir?” He asked. Jason stood, leaning casually against the bulkhead as if he was just stretching.

“I have to ask, how did you end up with “Ghosts” as a call sign? It’s a bit cliche honestly.” A few men snickered, while others laughed that they’re what goes bump in the night. Del just held his gaze.

“We’re good at disappearing. Like ghosts in the night.” He said seriously. Jason filtering his vision as he watched the additional figures slowly rise. Clutching small pistols, which made Jason hope their tech wasn’t as good as Waller’s new cloak. Jason just casually shrugged, throwing a glance toward the bag unseen and then refocused. Green filtering in at the edge of his vision.

“Ghosts are also supposed to be quiet. Like a whisper.” He said before he activated his own cloak and bolted to the other side of the cargo hold . Pings and tiny flashes appearing where he once stood as the men opened fire.

He pivoted sharply, pulling both pistols as he opened up on the closest figures. His shots opening new holes and cavities on the closest threats. Whose partners all worked to shift their fire. Jason watched as two men dropped to the ground in his electric vision. Small sparks erupting from their backs as his bullets tore through their suits. Within seconds, one of the braver men rushed him. Emptying his clip as he approached. Jason stood his ground and dodged what shots he could. Still feeling the impact as two impacted his chest. He waited till the man got close enough and then lashed out with his right arm. Redirecting the man’s outstretched hands with the pistol held tightly within. Before taking aim with his left pistol and sending a round through the attacker’s skull.

The man’s companions didn’t even flinch. Instead opening up on where they now knew Jason to be. Who grabbed the falling body and held it up as a shield. Feeling a multitude of shots pass through the corpse and impact his armor. Earning a grunt of frustration from the agent. Eventually the men ran out of ammo. Small clicks echoing from empty weapons as they ran dry. Most started their reloads with machine-like precision. But Jason moved to capitalize on their pause. Holstering his remaining right pistol and drawing his rifle in one movement. Flicking the fire control to “auto”, he began to empty his own clip. His own cloak dissipated as the blood and bits of his shield fell to the floor.

Jason didn’t waste time on going for head-shots. Preferring to dose anyone who he thought was too quick in a burst of fire. Some clipping men as they worked to dodge, while others caught the bursts center mass. Dropping to the floor. Jason mentally counted down his targets as his HUD worked to keep track of the rounds left in the clip. As he approached zero he signed a mental, “f*ck it” and hurled the rifle toward the closest man after it went dry. Advancing forward quickly and trying to draw the men into CQC. He approached a group of three, who had one member rush forward. Trying to land a swift punch to Jason’s stomach as his friends reloaded. Jason tanked the hit in favor of landing his own left hook to the man’s jaw. Spinning him away and allowing Jason to kick out his right knee. Before catapulting himself over the man in a drop kick. Energy exploding from his feet and sending another assailant flying into the bulkhead. From his prone position on the floor, Jason lashed out again with a right cross into the other man’s left knee. Energy exploded outwards again as the man’s knee disintegrated. A scream of pain echoing around the hold.

Jason quickly began to roll with his momentum. Pushing himself back up to his feet to the greeting of another wave of fire. Rounds pinging off his armor as the paint chipped and scratched from the impact of the fire. The metal underneath not even registering the hits.His undersuit holding strong and only allowing for Jason to feel small bruising hits. Deciding he done being target practice, Jason retreated backwards. Slamming against the bulkhead and pulling the fire extinguisher from the wall. Before flinging it into the spray. It exploded as he hoped. A cloud of white mist erupting and flooding the bay. Causing a grin to break out on Jason’s face as he barrelled in. Old habits being hard to break.

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Trailing the Globe Master

Tim tapped his fingers against the metal armrest of bio ship. Boredom coloring his features as Young Justice kept pace with the aircraft in front of them. An uneventful escort if he had ever had one. After they had evacuated from the Quarac base. They beelined it to the nearest zeta-tube. Tuppence barely holding on as they worked to keep her stable. Four eventful hours later, they had teleported her to the Watchtower and its waiting doctors. Before being debriefed by Batman. Which went as well as could be expected. The Bat commending them for placing lives above the mission, but still berating them for their failure in securing the elements. He then turned around and told them they would be acting as unofficial escorts for the now captured objective. Trailing them as Waller worked to bring them home.

So here they were. A little under forty-eight hours later and they were following their failure home. His thoughts were interrupted though. As the rear door of the craft began to descend.

“The hell?” Tim muttered as worked to zoom in. The image appearing on the viewscreen before the team as it slowly descended. All his teammate’s gazes immediately snapping to the first sign of action.

“Do you think they’re going to airdrop them?” Connor asked quizzically.

“This close to Markovia? No way in hell.” Artemis answered.

“So what do you think….” M’gann was interrupted by flashes of rounds impacting their screen. The distinct pinging sound of rounds ricocheting off their hull. They watched as the fire died down and an armored figure appeared. Seemingly fighting two men with his back to the now open door. Before he caught a right hook to jaw. Sending him to one knee. Before lunging forward and extending a right arm blade into the heart of the other man. Rising with his strike and pushing the man to the floor. He then pulled his blade back and turned. Sending the next strike through the exposed throat of the original attacker. Before heaving the man to his left and out of the door. The body disappearing from sight below. He turned and raised his arm again. Driving forward and into the now returning fire of the other unknowns.

Tim turned to Cassie and M’gann. “Get over there! We can’t have it crashing in Markovia!” He yelled. Remembering the threats and violence from the isolated nation. More importantly though, the complete and utter exile of any Justice Leaguer from the country. Declaring heroes to be shot on sight. M’gann barely wasted a second. Phasing through the floor and shooting forward toward the bay. Cassie shortly behind, as bio ship opened a hole below her. Tim watching on as he worked to connect with Batman and the JLA.

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Jason finished off another man. Breaking his left arm as he judo threw him over his left shoulder, before delivering a punch to the man’s temple. Knocking him out cold. He barely had time to react before Del charged him. Slamming the agent against the wall as his five remaining men sprinted toward Jason’s bench.

“What the f*ck are they feeding you?! I’ve never seen a man move like that!” Del asked as drove his right forearm into Jason’s throat.

“Sugar, …..spice, ..and …everything nice.” Jason choked out. Before slamming is right elbow downwards into Del’s arm. Breaking his hold before following it up with a right uppercut. He then grabbed a fist full of Del’s left sleeve and spun him. Making him collapse into the bench seats below him, before delivering blow after blow to the man’s skull.

A call of “That’s enough!” rang out in the hull. Jason turning to see what else he had to deal with, as the rest of Del's men glanced over. Fitting into parachutes that they disguised as backpacks and claiming the elements. Jason was met by the sight of Miss Martian and Wonder Girl standing in the opening of the doorway. One clutching her lasso and the other just floating there. Del’s men barely even paused, just throwing a quick glance to one another. Before completely rushing the women.

Jason’s call of “Stop them!” being lost in the roar of the men. Both Cassie and M’gann readied for a fight before all five men by passed them. Throwing themselves out of the plane. To the stunned eyes of the heroes who thought they just jumped to their deaths with backpacks.

Before another roar of “Damn it!” echoed in the plane. Jason’s frustration boiling over as he darted past both of them. Throwing himself after the men. Both Cassie and M’gann still standing, completely stunned and blinking slowly.

Before Cassie asked, “Did he have a parachute?”

xxxxxxxxxx.

Tim and the rest of the team watched as a black shadow shot towards the earth. Everyone was stunned before Tim fingered his communicator. “Did they have a parachute?” He asked with almost clinical-like detachment. The answering silence being some of the loudest he ever heard, before Cassie shot down after him. M’gann relaying she was going to check on the pilots and round up whoever’s left. Tim could only nod as he continued trying to connect to the Watchtower.

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Jason hurtled towards the earth. The wind whipping around him as he narrowed himself. Trying to catchup with the dots below him. He shifted slightly and angled toward the center of the grouping. Shooting past before rolling over. His back now facing the ground as he extended his arms and legs. Flying back up towards the group of wide-eyed men. All of them at a loss to the insanity of a man who threw himself out of a plane without a parachute. Jason aimed and impacted with one of the men. Sending both into a spin of clutching limbs and curses. Jason pulled his grapple and looped it around the harness of the man’s parachute. Working to reangle the man upwards as the man screamed and thrashed. Completely blind to the man’s panic, Jason got the man into position and pulled the cord. The canopy opening up in a brilliant red.

But before Jason could turn his attention to the screaming man, he felt a large impact on his shoulder. A tree limb snapping as they both crashed through the forest. Breaking branches and limbs as they went before the canopy caught on a limb. Snapping the two upwards and breaking Jason’s hold. He free fell for about half a second before his grapple slowed his decent. Pulling him upwards again with a jolt. Before he crashed to the earth below with a loud thud. His grapple distangling itself and returning to its hold, as Jason laid sprawled on the earth. Working to catch his breath.

“Red Crown to Agent Knight and Agent Wolf, respond.” Waller’s voice rang out in his ear.

“Agent Knight here Red Crown.” Jason groaned from position. Feeling the growing bruises and welts across his body.

“Sitrep” Waller tersely asked. Drawing a bark of crazed laughter from Jason.

“The Deltas weren’t Deltas. The elements have been taken, and Young Justice is on-site, again.” Jason rattled off as he rolled to his chest. Arms ready to push him up as he eyed four other red chutes descending into the forest.

"Then where the hell are you!” Waller almost snarled.

“In pursuit” Jason responded as he pushed himself up. Limping for a few steps, before shaking his dizziness away and taking off at a light jog.

Chapter 20: “Because I’m better than what he made me out to be.”

Chapter Text

Across The Valley

Cassie sped toward the blooms of red, disappearing into a clearing below. Intent on making sure they were still alive, and taking back the elements. A smirk prying itself free as the anticipation of battle grew. The men below rapidly freed themselves before three of them turned their sights on the incoming Amazon. Unloading round after round to slow her down. Cassie paused in her descent. Countering as quickly as she could with her bracers. Igniting sparks from her deflections along with dull pings. She never saw the fourth man heft a m320 grenade launcher and fire a shot. Which exploded mere feet from her position. Sending her crashing into the forest and rocks below, along the edge of the clear. She didn’t hear so much as feel a large snap and crack as she crashed to earth. Smoke trailing her fall.

The men wasted no time. Knowing that they’d be better off without a tail, they converged on her landing site. Whispering quick callouts and surrounding the barely conscious Amazon. Cassie fought to stay awake. Groaning with the effort to lean back against the rock behind her. Right hand lashing out in an effort to draw her lasso. The only weapon she had to defend herself against these men. She came back to full consciousness as the bravest of the men pressed his boot against her left leg. Sending a wave of pain through Cassie, who screamed out at the pain. The man ignored this an instead leveled his rifle at her head. Watching as Cassie came back down and began breathing extremely heavily. Her shoulders rising and falling as tears worked their way down her scowl.

“Afraid you’ll miss?” She all but snarled. Determined to go out like an Amazon.

“Afraid you have a thick head.” The man coldly responded. Finger falling to the trigger.

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Two Minutes earlier

Jason jogged down the natural path in front of him. Muscles loose and flexible as he mantled over a fallen tree. The dull green and browns of the surrounding forest being broken up by the occasional glimpse of snow covered mountain tops. He couldn’t help but idly think how this valley would make a great vacation spot. All it was missing was a lake. He shook those thoughts away as he approached the clearing. Hearing the rattle of gunfire, before watching as the men on the ground unloaded on a floating Wonder Girl. Shots pinging off in a multitude of directions and impacting below her. Jason began to move toward the fight before a large explosion shook the earth. He watched as smoke trailed from the spot Wonder Girl once occupied to the edge of clearing. Blonde hair and pale limbs breaking the darkness of the trail as she fell. The men then took off after her. Jason shadowing them as he spirited along the clearing. Eyes occupied with tracking the threats in front of him. He came to a stop about twenty five meters away from the group. Inching his way right, so he could get a view of Wonder Girl and the man approaching her.

She looked about how he expected. A multitude of cuts and bruises covering her body, her left leg bending unnaturally at the mid calf. An obvious break. Her red top and blue jeans slightly torn here and there. A miracle to Jason, until he remembered that they were probably as armored as some of Tim’s lighter suits. Jason continued his slow march, until he had a clear route toward the approaching man. Who had just pressed his weight against her leg while leveling his rifle. The scream echoing around them. Jason pulled a grenade from his belt, and passed it to his left hand. Taking a second to focus his breathing and hype his adrenaline up. Before erupting from the forest like a vengeful wraith.

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All Cassie heard was a feral roar as a black blur impacted with the man in front of her. Sending his shots wide and drawing grunt of pain. The armored figure tackling him to the ground as something flew out from his left hand. Before said item exploded in mid air. Sending the other men to the ground as the figure pulled himself up into a crouch and leveled a right jab to the attacker’s exposed jaw. Causing the man to see stars as he clutched and reached for his pistol. Drawing it and centering on the figure. Only to have his world explode in pain as the agent broke his arm over their left knee. Bending it at the elbow unnaturally.

It was then that a shot rang out. Flying past the agent with a crack and causing him to snap toward the other men. One of which looked torn to shreds by the grenade and the other two trying to hobble to their feet. Aiming their rifles in his general area. The agent pushed himself back to his feet and rushed forward. Cassie watching with wide eyes as the man approached the first man and grabbed his out stretched right arm as he slid. Pulling the man over top of him as he turned and threw the soldier to the ground. Stunning the man as the agent extended his right blade half way and drove it forward into the ear and brain of the man. Killing him instantly. He pulled back and flinched with the impact of rounds hitting his right side. The third man finally finding his aim again. The agent pushed back to his feet and ran left. Away from the man as shots trailed behind him, before pivoting hard and charging. The move throwing off the man’s aim as the agent crashed into him in a shoulder charge. Sending the man flying as the agent straightened. Drawing his right pistol and unloading as the man rolled to the ground. Shots drawing small plumes of red as they impacted.

The agent paused, surveying the field once more. Only seeing a series of bodies, one man crying as he worked to pry his pistol from his broken arm, and the Amazon who was sporting a look of surprise and horror. But most importantly not seeing the case. He stomped toward the crying man. His voice pierced the air and caused Cassie to flinch.

“Where is the case?!” Standing over the man, he grabbed the front shoulder straps of his gear and hulled him up. Holding him in the air as the man struggled to find his footing, despite being a good four inches from the ground.

“CCCCC….Cle….. Clearing.” He gasped out. His one good arm trying to pry the grip from his front. The agent nodded as he threw the man to the ground. Walking up and tossing the man’s now useless pistol away, before dragging the man away by the back of his gear. The man kicking and thrashing in an attempt to free himself.

Cassie watched on. Still too stunned and in partial shock as the figure walked off. Her mind clearing enough to yell out a desperate, “Wait!”. The figure not even acknowledging her.

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Jason dropped the man as he made his way to the bundles of bags and parachutes in the clearing. Ignoring the man’s pleas and cries as he stalked forward toward his duffle bag. Quickly unzipping it and confirming the case within was still in one piece. A few small dents peppering its side, but otherwise unbroken. He then re-zipped the bag and hung it over his shoulder, before turning back to the man. Drawing his knife as he approached.

“Ok, let's play twenty questions. I’ll go first. Who are you working for?!” He asked as he spun the knife in his hand. The man’s eyes tracking it as he juggled it. The man appeared to grit and grumble, his jaw working back and forth. Before Jason lashed out. Pulling the balaclava down as foam erupted from the man’s mouth. The pill already taking effect.

“Damn it!” Jason yelled frustrated as he threw the dying man down. Not even glancing back as he stalked off a few feet.

Radioing Waller, “Agent Knight to Red Crown. Package secure, awaiting extraction.” A faint buzzing could be heard before Waller broke through.

“Confirmed Agent Knight. Be advised, Markovia has already threatened to declare war if any other assets enter their country. Eagle-1 has ordered us to stand down.” Waller informed, voice completely monotone and indicating her displeasure. Jason just sighed. Already knowing he was probably going to have to walk out of this country on his own.

“Confirmed Red Crown. How’s Agent Wolf taking that, and can I get imagery or a basic map to figure my way out of here?”

“Uploading both satellite imagery and a map. Agent Wolf has voiced her displeasure, however I believe she has let it be known that you require a new psych eval.” Waller said and Jason could just hear the smirk.

“I believe my last eval put me squarely in the “still mostly sane” category. Mild sociopathic tendencies not included. I’ll see you before Christmas. Agent Knight out.” Jason said as he cut the radio off.

He eyed the upload bar on his HUD as he began to take stock of himself. He still had his knife and both pistols. Six throwing knives still sat comfortably on his waist, as he felt around for his clips. Finding two remaining. He outright discarded the remaining rifle magazines.The rifle still in the plane and among the wounded and dead. His suit was scuffed and scratched but the damage was all cosmetic. The metal living up to its name and function. Eventually the map and satellite grind appeared on his HUD. HIs eyes manipulated it as he worked to find the nearest base. Which was a lot farther than he was willing to go. Being clear on the opposite side of the country. It was then that a thought struck him. His mind working out the distance between here and Nanda Parbat. Finding it to be only about four hundred miles to his east. Would Talia be upset….. Maybe. But he could zeta back to the states without issue. All bases outside the US lacking the zeta technology. He hummed before deciding that was probably his best bet.

He took three steps in that direction before freezing.

“Don’t go back. She’ll be fine, Timbers keeps his team on a tight leash. Plus she’ll slow you down. There’s no reason to go back.” He argued with himself. Hands clenching and unclenching.

“You’re not that man anymore. You have a new family and responsibilities.” Jason continued. Trying desperately to convince himself. A tiny portion pointing out he was better than that. Which steadily grew.

“f*ck!” He yelled as he stomped back toward Wonder Girl.

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Cassie was trying to crawl towards a nearby tree. Thinking she could maybe fashion some sort of splint for her leg. She had tried to comm her team, but quickly found it was gone. Probably destroyed in the explosion. Which left her in the middle of a country that claimed it would hunt metas for sport if they entered, and which threatens nuclear action should any JLA associate be seen breaking their borders. In short, she was alone. Combined with her broken leg and inability to fly because of it, it wasn’t looking all that great. She grunted and pressed. Working her way along the cold ground. She just barely heard the rustling of cloth behind her. She quickly forced herself to her back. Spotting the figure from earlier dig through the dead men’s gear. Pulling clips and a rifle, which he slung under his left arm.

“Stop moving and I’ll get to it in a minute.” His gruff voice echoed. Flipping a body and rifling through the bag on its back. She made a move to protest, but a flash of pain cut off any retort she could muster

The man just continued to search. Pulling a few things out before replacing them in the bag. His searching then abruptly stopped. Pulling a small box from the backpack and marching toward her. Before dropping the box beside her and continuing to the forest. Her eyes tracked him before turning to the box. It was tan brown with a red cross labeled on the front. A medikit if she ever saw one. The agent returned a few minutes later. Carrying a series of small, thick sticks. Which he dropped next to her leg before crouching. He then opened the box and looked up at her.

“I’m going to have to cut away the jeans, splint the leg, and wrap it. But first I’m going to inject you with a dose of morphine.” The agent spoke as he pulled a small tube from the bag. Revealing a small needle. Cassie looked at him with wide eyes before nodding. Her normal cheerful mood was absent as the man injected her.

He then unsheathed his knife and clutched her leg above the knee. A terse “Don’t move.” being said as he started cutting along the leg. Being careful not to cut her as well. Eventually he had the leg free. A clean break at mid calf meeting his gaze. Which he turned to the eyes of his patient. Waiting to see her relax and or eyes go glassy as the drugs kicked in.

“How you holding up there kid?” He asked.

Cassie jolted slightly. Before answering, “Been better. I think this is the first time I’ve ever broken that leg.” she said. Watching as the man nodded absently. Then quickly set the break. Drawing a litany of curses from the woman.

“I believe Amazons are supposed to be more proper than that.” Jason admonished.

“How many Amazons do you know?! The ones I do curse like drunken sailors when hurt!” Cassie yelled. Jason could only think back to the last spar he had with Donna before the Titan’s mission. Her whispered swears every time she took a hit making him more competitive at the time, and surprisingly Artemis always maintained her discipline, but would occasionally bark out a string of profanity that he was sure Biz picked up. Diana was a saint, no question in Jason's mind.

“To be fair. You all are a bit grumpy when you get hurt.” Jason conceded. Lining up the sticks and pulling the medical tape from the bag. Cassie nodding in satisfaction as he worked.

“Good, now what do I call you? Shadow? Wraith? Darkness?” Cassie rattled off sarcastically. Gaining a snort in return.

“Agent Knight. This should hold you till your team gets you.” Jason said as he stood. Hoping that his assumption was wrong and Tim would be crashing out of the sky in a few seconds. His team following quickly behind. But the girl’s eyes and body language quickly shifted. An obvious show of wrestling whether or not she should tell him she’s stuck.

He signed again before asking, “They don’t know where you are and can’t come get you. Can they?” A small nod being his answer. He clenched and unclenched his hands again. Willing the anger away. “Ok….. Ok. I’m going to have to carry you out of here. We’ll try to…… find a car and hospital along the way. But we can’t slow down and I’m not pulling my punches” He listed. Her eyes flicked to the corpses before going back to him. “Are we going to have any problems?” Cassie could only stare. Her mind working to think of a better option. She didn’t kill. Hell, Young Justice and the JLA were formed to stop people killing or being killed. But right now she was alone in a country that hated her, unable to use her abilities until she got a boot or something, and the only friendly face didn’t have a face. Plus, he killed like it was a job. No flashy moves, just precise strikes and death. Her Amazon side also pointed out that she was from a land of warriors. Who had no issues taking lives when needed. She could handle this for a few days. They may not even have to fight anyone.

Her decision made and mind settled. She answered, “No, we won’t have a problem.” Agent Knight nodded as he made his way back over.

“Great! Now I’m going to carry you. We have a long way to go and I’m not missing this Christmas because some asshole couldn’t stay quiet.” He said as he hefted her to his shoulders.

“What about food and water? Didn’t they have any?” Cassie pointed out as she waved a hand at the carnage.

“Here? No. I’m betting they had some at the landing site though. We’ll find what we can before heading out.” Agent Knight answered. Already making his way back into the clearing.

Then Cassie asked the question he was trying to figure out himself. “Why did you come back?”

Jason shifted slightly. Disguising it as him repositioning her on his back.

“Because I’m better than what he made me out to be.”

Chapter 21: Promises

Chapter Text

December 18th

Jason kept up his march. Cresting over a rise between two of the mountains that surrounded the valley. His passenger hoisted upon his shoulders and covered in a tan jacket they had found at the landing site. He was also now sporting a tan backpack that rested comfortably underneath the young woman and on top of the black duffle bag that held the elements. It was about as good as he was going to get if he had to hike across this god forsaken country. Wonder Girl had argued at the landing site that she could carry another pack on her back. Jason just stared at her until she grew uncomfortable and conceded. He wasn’t a meta or super powered. Sure his strength and rapid healing could be considered meta, but he really wasn’t all that far off from his fellow men. So he knew he could only handle so much for so long before his body would give out. Thus, he had limited his pack to only the essentials: food, water, the medikit, and whatever else he could scavenge. Then it was off on their march. Cassie tried to start a conversation until she grew bored of his silence and fell asleep. Her weight increased just as she passed out. Jason’s guess was she was using what little flight she could to ease his burden. A kind gesture that he made note of.

It wasn’t long after that, that he stopped and made a small camp. Placing Cassie under a tree while he started a small fire. Before inevitably surrendering to the mercy of sleep. His sleep was dreamless and calm, a sharp juxtaposition to his waking hour. Cassie gasped out a loud curse, as she twisted accidentally and felt her leg again. Within seconds, Jason was standing and panning around the camp. Rifle outstretched and looking for targets before his mind had even realized he was awake. He calmed quickly there after, once he realized that it was just Cassie in pain again. Which he sorted with another shot of morphine. Then heating up two of the MREs in his pack for them. Which he politely (read, walked off without a word) took to himself. Not particularly interested in seeing if she could place him. After that it was just a matter of packing up and continuing their journey. Which brought him to now.

He panned the scenic landscape below him. Looking for a road or other sign of civilization. He knew there was no way he was going to be able to walk them all the way to Nanda Parbat. It would take too long and he really wasn’t in the mood to be dealing with Cassie the whole way. Speak of……

”You know, it might take your mind off the hike if we play a game. I assume you’ve played twenty questions?” the Amazon asked with her normal cheerful lilt. Jason just grunted in response, focusing on the map and satellite imagery again.

“Great! I’ll go first. Are you related to Slade Wilson?” She asked. Jason outright laughed at that. It was exactly what he expected, because of course that would be what Dick and Donna had focused on.

“Been talking to Nightwing and Troia, Sandstone?” He deadpanned. Trying to end the conversation.

“Yep! Red had two team meetings to discuss theories after they met you. The leading theory is that you’re a clone. But don’t know you’re a clone. So………? What is it? I got twenty bucks riding on it.” Her cheerful voice continued.

“I’m not related to Slade, trust me. Nor am I a clone.” Jason sighed out.

“But a clone wouldn’t know you’re a clone. So you can’t be certain.” Cassie pointed out. Which….. Ok fair, but he remembered every second of dying, coming back, and he still got flashes from when he was brain dead. So he figured he was safe.

“I can assure you, I’m not a clone. Although, I probably can’t prove it any more without upsetting a few people.” Thank you Bruce, for erasing his memory and life from every computer on the planet. His remaining epitaph, a cut up and burned costume in a case with “good soldier underneath”. Jason seethed silently.

Cassie hummed at that. Before a wild thought hit her, “What do you mean you can’t prove it anymore?”

Jason steered around that iceberg by saying, “My turn Sandstone. Why just a lasso?” If he had to endure this to keep her awake, so be it. Might as well get something out of it.

“Excuse me?!” Her voice sounded off with a deep undercurrent of offense.

“I mean that Wonder Woman has her lasso, but she also carries around a sword and shield. Troia has the same. While Artemis gets a big, f*ck off ax. So why are you saddled with just a lasso?” Jason asked. Finally confirming his route and setting off.

“I made a deal with Ares. Eventually he betrayed me, but he never was able to take it back. So it's mine now, and I like that I don’t need a typical weapon to do the things Wonder Woman can. Plus, there’s a lot of training to use swords and shields…… Between you and me, our trainer is terrifying, so I’m not about to ask her to help.” Cassie explained. Jason represses a snort at Cassie’s view of Artemis and her training methods.

“So….. how do you know Wonder Woman, Troia, and Artemis?” Cassie asked, continuing her game.

“Classified try again, Sandstone.” Jason answered. Feeling the huff as Cassie shifted.

“Ok, why do you keep calling me Sandstone?” She asked.

“Your name is Cassie Sandsmark, and you’re blonde. Not the best link, I know. But Blondie and Barbie are already taken.” Jason responded. Trying to gently work his way down some rocks, and missing the stunned expression on Cassie’s face.

“How do you know my name?” She almost whispered.

“I know most of them to be honest. Tim Drake, Connor Kent, Artemis Crock, M’gann, stop me if I got any wrong.” Jason said nonchalantly. “We’re the government, kid. It pays to know these things.” Cassie could only reel in shock before coming back to herself.

“What do you want?” She asked. Her mind raced to figure out what he got out of knowing her team’s identities.

“Right now? To get home in time for Christmas. For my…….. partner to never find this mission’s debrief, and to only get a mild lecture somewhere in the middle of all that. But before that, I’d settle for a car.” Jason answered dismissively.

“Not that asshole! What do you want from me and my team?” Cassie snarled.

“Other than you not accepting a mission that blatantly goes against the US military, government, and people?......... Nothing. I don’t care about your little games you play for the cameras and media. I get it though. It's your role. You make people feel safe. That someone will save them from the psychos and make sure they stay locked up……. Until next time.” Jason explained. “My role is to make people safe. Most of those so-called psychos you capture over and over again do need help, and it's best for them to be locked away for treatment. Most would never go above terrifying or bruising an innocent. But……… there are those that are a cut above the rest. The ones that act psychotic to continue the song and dance, without repercussions. That’s where I come in. I’ll never advocate for you kids learning how to kill, or even start killing. But your mentors…….. They should know that not all threats can be reasoned with. That there has to be a line where, for the good of everyone, someone has to die.” Jason answered more gently.

Before he continued on. “I believe it's my turn. So, have you ever asked Diana her view on being a warrior?” The silence answering for him.

“I think you should next time you get a chance. She doesn’t kill now, but that is more out of obligation to the League than an actual moral point. She gets my view, but believes that the JLA should be above such notions. As Superman and Batman have put it, “We’re here to show the correct path, and that means being better than those that stand against us.”” Cassie digested that. Her mind filling with more questions than answers. This agent obviously knew Diana at one point. Hell, he was probably in their inner circle at some point, that quote was too close to being one of Superman’s speeches not to be. That really didn’t make her feel any better.

“Who are you?” She asked. The man paused for a second to think of his response.

“I’m just someone who wants to keep helping, and if that means doing what they won’t so everyone else can sleep at night. Then I’m going to do it.”

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Three hours later

“Why Agent Knight?” Cassie asked. Jason was almost startled by the question. The young woman fell silent after their last topic. Most likely mulling over his responses. He was actually surprised at her choice of question.

“I wanted something else, but was out voted. My partner said it was too on the nose and would lead to more questions. To be fair, she was right.” Jason said. Now ducking under tree limbs as they neared a road.

Cassie hummed, “But Knight is still pretty on the nose. I mean your armor really kinda drives that idea home.” she observed.

“Knight wasn’t the issue. Technically, my full callsign is Agent Knight-01. But it's quicker to just drop the zero one for most communications.” Jason shrugged. Not seeing the issue in explaining his callsign. He wanted Arkham Knight, but Rose, then Slade, and then Waller all vetoed it. Saying it drew too much attention and Waller made the executive decision to just make it Agent. When he pointed out that Rose was still Ravager, all three looked at him like he grew a second head.

“Do you know how many callsigns, equipment, and missions have the code name “Ravager" in them?” Slade asked rhetorically at the time.

”So what did you want it to be?” Cassie asked.

“Avenging.” Jason deadpanned, not caring about lying to the young woman.

“My turn, why did you get sent on this mission? Shouldn’t it have been the Titans?” Jason asked. To which Cassie snorted this time.

“We’re apparently more stealthy. Being able to get in and out without too many issues.” Jason just nodded.

“I’m guessing that’s because Red lords over you all with an iron fist?” Which drew a giggle from the girl.

“He does, doesn't he. God, the amount of detail he goes into on his mission briefs. You’d think he’s already solved everything, and you just have to execute.” She answered.

“He’s a good leader. He has his head on straight and knows when to tell others to shove it. You’re lucky to have Red.” Jason agreed. The two lapsed into silence again.

“Are you related to Batman? You act a lot like him and Red.” Cassie tried. Jason fighting to not tense at the question.

“No.” he spat. A tad too vehemently. Which drew an eyebrow from Cassie.

“Are you sure? I think one doth protest too much.” She said lightly.

“No, I’m not related to Batman.” He answered calmly. It may still be a sore spot, but he’s grown over these years. The anger was still there, but now it was bolstered by apathy. A dangerous combination.

“You related to Diana?” He asked. Trying to throw the young woman off balance. Despite already knowing the answer.

“She’s my Aunt. We hang out whenever she gets a bit of down time. But you know how it is. The world never sleeps.” Cassie answered. Just then the sound of an engine pierced the forest. Climbing as it approached them.

Jason picked up the pace. Nearly sprinting straight into the street, as he looked to his left and saw an oncoming truck. But from this distance he couldn’t tell what type. His mind focussing on how to get them to stop. He wasn’t exactly dressed like a local. Plus he was carrying a rifle, two bags, and a young woman. On top of his scuffed and scratched armor and gear. It was more likely that they’d just drive right on pass and inform whatever police force was nearby. Which…….may not be the worst option. Depending on how many cruisers were sent. He doubts that they’d have rapid communication with the government this far out. Or that a QRF could arrive in a timely manner. It was then that Cassie spoke up.

“I have an idea!”

“Ok, what have you got? I’m still stuck on how to explain all my gear.” Jason asked.

“Let me down.” Cassie directed. Which Jason did. Helping her stand slightly before the Amazon jerked him forward by a strap. Causing him to slip under her arm like he was helping her walk. Before Cassie started yelling with tears running down her face. Her other arm flailed in a desperate attempt to stop the truck.

Which surprisingly caused the truck to slow. Eventually coming to a stop about fifteen yards from them. It was then that Jason saw it was an old Ram pickup. Probably from around 2007 and it was painted a dark, navy blue. An older man and woman sat behind the wheel with wide eyes. Before the man turned to the woman and said something. Jason was unable to read his lips as Cassie started to slightly shake next to him. The man then turned and got out. His right hand never left his door handle as he stood next to the now open door.

Cassie frantically called out, “Oh! Thank you! Thank you! We need help! Can you get me to the nearest hospital? I broke my leg in our plane crash and need to get to a hospital!” Her cries sounding too real to Jason’s ears. Which worried him.

The stout man then responded in Russian, “I don’t speak english, who are you and what are you doing out here?” To which Jason immediately responded.

“I’m a Russian assigned bodyguard to Princess Celine of Qurac. Our plane crashed in a valley about twenty miles that way, yesterday. She’s got a broken leg and we need to get to a hospital. Could you give us a ride to the nearest town?” His Russian sounded as close as he could to a native speaker, as he waved a hand toward the mountains and valley. Causing the man to nod a couple of times. Cassie’s eyes watched with a frantic gleam. The man’s wife then called out to him.

“Look at her Mikhail! She needs help!” The woman sounded maternal and reminded Jason of Talia when she switched to Arabic. Usually during a lecture she used to disguise her concern.

"We don’t know who they are, Lara! Look at him!” Mikhail whisper, yelled to his wife.

So Jason decided to try a different tactic. “Can you just take her? I can walk until someone from the government comes and gets me.” His thoughts drifting back to the plan of just taking a car from whatever authority arrived. Only now he’d have to track down Cassie too, which wasn’t too much of an issue.

“Absolutely not!” Lara responded in Russian. Clambering out of her seat and rapidly approaching them. To the protests of Mikhail, who followed behind her pleading for her to stop. Lara ignored him and quickly swept into Cassie’s other arm. Taking some of the weight as she looked her over. It was then that Jason got a good look at the couple. Mikhail was probably in his late sixties. White hair and beard held under a brown newsboy cap. His skin was tanned and he had wrinkles under his eyes. Probably a farmer Jason thought. Especially with the blue and white flannel, old brown blazer, and dark blue jeans held up by suspenders. Lara was dressed similarly. A white buttoned blouse under a dark velvet and purple shawl that ended at her waist. A black A line skirt that reached to her ankles. She was also just as tanned, but still in the process of going gray, if the strands of black hair sticking out from under her shawl were any indication.

“Mikhail! Get the blanket set up in the back. The poor thing is shivering!” Lara ordered. To which Mikhail only looked at her with wide eyes, before turning and marching off. Grumbling something about ending up in a ditch. Which Jason could understand and relate to. He wouldn’t have stopped for a disheveled woman and battle worn man in the middle of nowhere. But for Rose, he’d risk the ditch if she ordered. Like Lara was doing now. Meanwhile Lara asked Cassie question after question.

"Sweetheart are you ok? How did you break your leg in the crash? How far have you walked?” Causing the girl to look like a deer trapped in the headlights.

Jason decided to save her, “She doesn’t know Russian. We think she broke it when the engine blew. She didn’t have a seatbelt on, so she flew across the cabin. I was nearest enough to pull her down and strap her in. After that, the pilots tried to glide us in but…….. Everyone else is gone and I’ve been carrying her across the valley. This is the first time she’s put any weight on it.” His voice still coming out in that cold distortion. Lara just nodded as she led them to the tailgate.

Where Mikhail waited with a blue blanket that was immediately wrapped around Cassie. The girl smiled as she tugged on it. Jason then crouched and lifted Cassie into the truck. Setting her behind the passenger’s seat on the right side. Before taking off his backpack and searching through it for the medikit. Before pulling it out and opening it. To withdraw another shot of morphine. The couple watched on before he turned and answered the unspoken question.

“Morphine. I’ve been giving it to her to keep the edge off. I’m hoping we’ll be in town before we need to give her another dose.” Cassie holding out her arm this time for him to inject her. Jason then nodded satisfied, before closing up the kit and pack again sliding it forward into the truck bed. Followed by the duffle.

But before he could clamber in himself, Mikhail grabbed his arm. Jason looking over to the stern face before him. “Son, I’m willing to give you a ride. But I need you to look me face to face and promise you won’t hurt us.” Jason glanced over to Cassie really quickly. Her eyes still alert and questioning what was happening.

“I promise I won’t hurt you.” He said. Mikhail’s eyebrow raising and reminding him of when Alfred caught him doing something he shouldn’t.

“Son, we both know that’s not how this works. There’s no one for miles and I’m not going to ask a name. But its how we get by out here. A man’s word is his bond.” Mikhail explained. He was from a small town and a lot of the time the only assurance that something would be done or given was a handshake and promise.

“I could give you all my weapons and sit toward the back.” Jason offered.

This time Lara spoke, “Honey, we all know you could make do without any of that.” Sounding like a scolding mother. Talia’s face flashing by again.
Jason glanced again toward Cassie and switched to english.

“I don’t know if you know me, but I promise you. If you speak a word of this to anyone. I will hunt you down.” Cassie’s eyes went wide before narrowing. Jason just sighed and turned back to the couple. He then reached up and fingered the two release buttons under his helmet. Freeing his slightly scarred face and dark black hair. Which was offset by a patch of white in the front.

He looked straight into the couple’s gaze and spoke in Russian, “I promise not to hurt you.” Getting small relieved smiles from the couple as they made their way back to the cab. Lara patted his arm as she walked around him. Jason just stared and fiddled with his helmet. Thumbing where rounds had chipped and scuffed the black paint. Before he slid the helmet in next to the duffle. Almost collapsing against the truck bed as he lifted the tailgate and settled against the side of the bed. Gaze now meeting Cassie’s wide eyes and gobsmacked expression.

Chapter 22: How Did We End Up In Smallville?

Chapter Text

Thirty Minutes later

“So, you lied about being related to Batman.” Cassie spoke. Glaring a hole in Jason’s head. As the truck bounced over rocks and potholes in the rural roads. Most being little more than glorified gravel paths. Distracting the two somewhat as they rocked with the suspension.

“No. I didn’t. I’m not related to the bat any more.” Jason explained. Settling back into his spot with his helmet tucked under his right arm and elements pulled securely over his lap.

Cassie’s face shifted, a new quizzical expression on her face. “What about the rest?”

Jason huffed out a breath of air. Knowing that eventually she’d circle back around to her friend. He was both satisfied that Cassie cared enough about Tim to dig, but also irritated that she started digging in the first place. “Complicated.” He spouted dryly.

“Then uncomplicate it! He’s not his usual self any more! He’s more reserved now and it takes the entire team to drag him out for fun or something other than work! He also broods and is more mopey! The only good thing is that Bernard has been extremely supportive, helping him through the rough patches and forcing him to be social! So explain to me why your life and happiness ranks above his?!” Cassie screamed. Her fury being drawn from the multitude of changes in her friend and his circle over the past three years. Drawing a side-eye from Lara. Checking to make sure everything was still somewhat ok from the light yelling she could hear over the engine.

But now it was Jason’s turn to be pissed. His eyes glowing a bright lazarus green. “You think it's that simple! You think that I just decided one day to say, “f*ck this I’m out, good luck with your family”?!............. No! I fought for years after coming back! Trying to earn something close to being a member! You know what that got me?! I had to go back to where I died and relive the worst day of my first life! All because Batman couldn’t ask a simple question! Then he turned around and sent me on an undercover mission, but didn’t trust me enough to know what the hell I was doing. Beating me to an inch of my life, and again not asking a simple question of why I shot penguin. Despite the f*cker still breathing! Then, the one time I try to take some initiative and explain my plan to the rest of the clan, who all agreed and even helped me, he kidnaps me and alters my physical make up! So that adrenaline only triggers a fear response! Do you know how much adrenaline affects your day to day life, Sandsmark?!” His rage on full display.

“Even after that the bastard offered what he termed a “new life” in Metropolis! Like that made up for altering me into being someone, something else! So, yes it is complicated!. And I’m not going to risk running into Batman again, just so the peanut gallery can be happy! Satisfied?” Jason ended. While dryly thinking, “Yep, still a sore spot”.

Cassie just looked at him like she’d been struck. Before she wiped that look off and returned to a scowl. “Everything you just said seems to center around you and the bat. So why is Tim paying for his sins?” She pointed out.

Jason just huffed again. Forgetting how little the outside world knew about their little circle. “Ok. Let's break it down, shall we? I will concede that Tim, Black Bat, Spoiler, and Signal had nothing to do with what happened. But Batgirl is just as likely to fight me as she is to help me. A real trusting relationship there.” A snort ending his sarcastic reply before continuing, “Nightwing was too wrapped up in guilt and the past to have actually wanted to get to know me. So all our conversations usually revolved around “used to” and “at one point”. Robin is too focused on being the next Batman, to actually respect anyone other than Nightwing. Hell, he hunted me all the way down to Texas because he thought I betrayed his Titans. I fixed that little notion before he got hurt. But I think that led to the biggest thing, lack of trust. They all seemed to track and document my movements like I was two seconds away from going off my rocker. I can’t tell you what it feels like to have everyone you want to like you, think you’re the next big villain. It makes you question your own sanity. So……. you ask why Tim is paying for Batman’s sins. It's because I can’t trust him to not tell the others about me. Which will eventually make it back to Batman.” Jason finished.

Cassie digested that before answering, “So, you’re afraid of Batman and losing your sanity again and because of that, Tim doesn’t get to know about you?”

Jason just scoffed. “I’m not afraid of what Batman will do to me, or of Batman. I’m afraid of what he can do to those around me. His first solution was built around me having no one willing to try and fix me. That backfired because Tim knew if the world found out about Batman’s solution to a supposed ally. The JLA and everyone else would be treated as threats by the public and government. He was lucky it was only big news in Gotham. God bless Lois Lane. I’m concerned his next “solution” would involve altering someone I’m close to, or outright hurting them to force me to care for them full time. I’m not risking that.”

Cassie retorted with, “Batman doesn’t hurt innocents. He would never hurt those close to you, in order to stop you.” Her tone underlying her belief in the man.

“With the one I care about? He’d just have to pick the right justification. No matter how many others had vouched for her, or her own turn around before disappearing. Because he’s Batman. Unflappable, unquestionable, and indomitable.” Jason answered. The bitterness of his words surprising him.

Cassie then decided to try a different approach. “You said you’re afraid for your sanity around them. But yesterday I saw you jump out of a plane with no parachute. I’d say you’re still far from sane now.” Eyebrow lifting.

“I’d say it's all relative. But that wasn’t me being insane or out of my mind. That was a leftover bit of my previous life. Old habits being hard to break and all that.” Jason dismissed with a wave of his hand. “It was suicidal.” Cassie pointed out with a deadpan.

Jason just stared into her eyes. Answering with a flat, “Yep”. He then watched her shift into confusion, before being met with the reality of his response. Horror blanketing her features.

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Fifteen Minutes later

They were still huddled in the back of the truck. Jason somewhat tracing their progress on his holographic map. He has successfully determined they were in the middle of nowhere. Officially. And it would probably stay that way for another forty-five minutes. They had somehow landed between two villages that are about three hours apart by car.

“Her.” Cassie spoke up again. Emerging from whatever mental gymnastics she was undergoing. Jason just answered with a questioning hum. Still palming through the map and trying to figure out the best way to Nanda Parbat. “You said “her” and mentioned a partner not finding out about your debriefing. Tim also mentioned that you disappeared with Rose Wilson. So, I’m guessing that’s who “her” is.” Cassie deducted. Then watched Jason sigh and turn his focus back to her. His eyes are still green but no longer glowing. A silent “continue” registering to the Amazon.

“She’s who you’re protecting. But that doesn’t make sense. She can obviously handle herself. If some of the crimes and heroics she has under her belt are true. She’s also done just as crazy, if not more so, stunts as your skydiving. So why wouldn’t you want her to see the report?” Cassie continued. Speaking out loud, mainly to herself. Working through the problem like Tim. Meanwhile Jason watched on. Eyes narrowing. Before the young woman straightened. As if she’d been struck by lightning. “Why do you want to be home in time for Christmas?” She asked. But now she seemed really put out. Like she found the answer, but couldn’t believe it.

“It's Christmas.” Was all the explanation Jason was willing to give.

Cassie’s eyes searching him before she all but flopped back. Face contorted in disbelief. Before she started rambling, “I have to be on the wrong Earth. There’s no way! Maybe I’m dreaming or the world is ending. Maybe this is the worst timeline.” Jason watching her with a blank face.

But internally smirking and thinking, “Sanity is relative.”

But then Cassie snapped to him. Her voice layered in disbelief. “How is Rose Wilson having a kid before Donna Troy!”

Two thoughts immediately and violently landed in his head. The first being, “That's a bit rude.” The second being a “Screw the contract. I’m probably going to have to bury her here”. But out loud he asked, “What do you know of Rose?”

“She’s a badass that was on the more crazy side. I know Nightwing and the Titans liked her when she was around. It reminded them of you. But she wasn’t as invested with them beyond missions and the occasional social outing. Donna said Beast Boy tried to hook up with her. But that ended pretty quickly when she started “dropping” her knives. Apparently, it took four misses and two strikes to his feet for him to get the message.” Cassie recalled. “I can’t believe she’d have a kid before Donna. Donna is so sweet and regal.”

Jason just nodded and said. “She’s also a bit uptight and somewhat stubborn. Neither bad characteristics, but it can put people off. Trust me, I used to crush on her back before I died.”

Cassie accepted that before finally noticing the look on Jason’s face. It reminding her of Tim’s “I’ve got a problem and you’re not going to like my solution” face. Blank, with a slight downturn at their month’s edges. “I’m not going to tell anyone! The Titans signed that contract and everything. I’m just struggling with everything.” Cassie assured.

Jason’s scowl not changing in the slightest. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. I never answered any of your theories…… But I do know if I get rumors of Rose or Ravager being pregnant……… You’ll be my first stop.” Jason answered tightly.

Before watching the Amazon wave them off and seeing her eye’s light up. "So, since you’re not having a kid. Have you ever thought of baby names?” Her face reminding him of Steph’s when she got excited about something, and of the associated whiplash of emotions. She often cycled between super serious and bubbly in seconds.

“What’s your goal here?” He asked.

Cassie just shrugged, “We’re going to be stuck together for the foreseeable future. I’m bored and its far more interesting to talk about your non-existent family with not-Rose. Plus, as you’ve…explained. No one else knows, so the trail only leads to me and I like not having headaches. So I’m not going to say anything”

Jason hated he couldn’t refute the logic there. Plus, it’d let him feel her out. Worst case, she gets “lost” in the mountains. Wouldn’t be the first time and he’s sure Talia wouldn’t be bothered in the slightest. Clean-up is like half their job. “If I had to choose one, I’d go with Harper.” Jason offered. Cassie’s face breaking out into a wide grin.

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It was about a half hour later that the group pulled into a small house that looked like it would normally be surrounded by fields of grain. The older couple moving to the trailer and letting Jason out. Who proceeded to throw the backpack back on and replaced his helmet. Moving to carry Cassie bridal style. As his rifle hung tight under his left arm. He turned and followed the couple. Both he and Cassie looking about. It was a small house. Two stories and painted a dull cream with navy blue highlights around the windows. A wire attached to the front that led to the utility polls that now lined the road. Leading in the opposite direction they had come from. Behind the home was a barn and small pasture. They paused as they heard a scattering of rocks and dirt. Catching a white and black blur appear from around the corner of the house. Before slowly circling the couple and coming to a stop in front of Lara. Tongue out and panting as the border collie patiently waited. Lara reaching down to pet the dog. “Why hello Katya! Have you had a good day? I bet you have!” Lara cooed.

“Halfway around the world and we land in smallville.” Jason joked. Cassie nodding silently as she looked on in jealousy. Not being able to pet the dog yet.

“We have a bed up on the second floor she can use.” Mikhail called out. Waving a hand and directing them forward.

They entered the house and steered toward the stairs. Passing a living room, kitchen, and small bathroom. Before climbing the stairs to a short hallway. Four doors lining it. “Bathroom. There’s soap under the sink.” Mikhail said as he knocked a finger against the closest door as he passed. “Our bedroom if you need us.” He waved at the door at the end of the hallway. Before opening a door to his left. Which was situated beside another door. “This will be the lady’s room for the night. Your’s is beside it. I think there’s an old boot for the lady in the closet, but I can’t remember. I’ll let you get settled in. Lara said she would have dinner ready in a bit. I’ll come get you then.” Mikhail explained before heading back downstairs.

Jason guided Cassie through the door and set her on the bed. Pulling off his backpack and duffle again, before he started rummaging through the closet. Cassie watching curiously behind him. “Sooooo….. I don’t speak Russian. What did he say?” Cassie giggling when a shoe box fell and bounced off Jason’s head.

“This is your room for the night. I’m going to be next door and dinner will be ready in a bit. He said something about a boot up here.” Jason grunted as he pulled down more boxes. Opening them and closing them in turn as he searched. Finally finding an old gray medical boot.

He turned and approached Cassie. Before removing his helmet again and staring at her. “This is going to hurt. I’m going to undo the splint and slip this on. I still don’t want you walking on it because I don’t know how bad it is.” He explained as he lifted her leg so she was fully lying on the bed.

“What if I want to take a shower?” Cassie asked sarcastically. Jason ignored it in favor of lining up the boot and drawing his knife. Cutting the tape quickly and removing the sticks. Cassie squirming as he did so. Before Cassie’s question reminded him of something.

“Don’t move. I’ll be back in two minutes.” Hurriedly leaving the room and entering the bath. Pulling the soup, a small bucket, and towels. He filled the bucket with warm water and returned to the room. Mixing the soap into the water and gingerly lifting her leg. He placed a towel underneath and then dipped another into the water. Before he set about cleaning the leg.

It looked about how he expected. A swelled mess of red and purples. He cleaned around the outside. Being mindful of his patient and not putting too much pressure on it. “How bad?” Cassie asked.

“Not the worst I’ve seen. But I don’t know the extent of the break. So you’ll have to wait till I get you back to Young Justice.” Jason answered. Completing his cleaning and moving to encase the leg in the boot. Cassie somewhat whimpered as he did so. Reminding him of the time Artemis caught a round to the shoulder. Her whimper pierced the piece of rubber and cloth he had her bite down on. “Done. I’ll give you another dose of morphine before bed.” Jason said as he packed back up.

“Not a sedative?” Cassie asked. Jason snorted again, eying the medikit below him.

“They didn’t pack any. sh*t ton of morphine and gauze though. I think their medic had a problem.”

They were interrupted by a light knock on the door. Lara smiled warmly at them. Cassie returned it while Jason provided a small smile. “Dinner’s ready.” She said before turning and heading back downstairs. Jason repeated it to Cassie as he finished up packing away the backpack.

“Great! Now carry me!” She said as she made grabby motions toward him like a child. Jason rolled his eyes before unslinging his rifle and placing his pistols next to it. He still had some manners. He then walked up to Cassie and gathered her back into his arms. “You know, you have some incredible endurance to be able to carry me around all day.” Cassie observed.

“Training Sandstone. Nothing but good training.” Jason said as they descended the stairs.

Meeting Mikhail and Lara as they set the table. Jason placing Cassie across from what he guessed was Lara’s seat before joining the older couple. Placing down plates and platters. Eventually they all took their seats. Jason’s assumption being incorrect, and having Mikhail sat across from Cassie. Lara across from him. They dished and passed the food quietly. Each loading their plates high with a rice and chicken plate, some sort of bread, and steamed vegetables. It was silent for a few minutes as they all dug in. Which was shattered when Mikhail asked, “So which country are you from? Its definitely not Russia.” Eyes filtering between Jason and his food. The question is seemingly casual and reminded Jason of Jonathan Kent. The older man just cutting through all the BS. Jason eyed Cassie for a sec. Who was oblivious to the question, the homemade food taking priority.

“I’m guessing you wouldn’t believe Scotland.” Jason tried.

“Son, that armor is some of the most high-tech I’ve ever seen in my life. There’s no way Russia has anything like that, unless they stole it. So I’m guessing you’re american?”

Jason leaned back in his seat. He already knew he might as well come somewhat clean. Mikhail was sharp, and partial answers would be better than the lies he’d have to come up with. Plus, Cassie would have no idea what story he spun.

“Yes. I lied earlier to try and put you at ease. I don’t know people’s view of the states out here and I figured the biggest backer of your military was a safer bet. I’m sorry” Jason said.Lara reached across and caught his arm. Giving it a tight squeeze. “Sweetheart, it's ok. But we’re just concerned. She obviously doesn’t understand us and we were concerned.” Lara explained. A soft smile on her face.

“Were?” Jason questioned.

“You took your helmet off and appeased us. Despite not needing to. Plus, you’re not too much older than her. An obvious soldier to boot.” Mikhail laid out before pressing. “So… what’s the real story son?”

“I can’t tell you the full or actual story. But I’m a part of US Special Operations and was on a routine flight to France. We were infiltrated by unknowns who forced the plane down.” Jason partially lied. He was never going to give them the full truth, but something close to it would work for now. It was then Lara’s eyes flicked back and forth between him and Cassie. Who was still enjoying her food. Before noticing Lara’s look and providing a polite smile. Which Lara returned.

“And her?” Lara asked.

“She is part of my mission. The duffle upstairs was the original objective, all the intel we needed to shut the target down. But we also found her.” Jason explained. Mikhail and Lara shooting him questionable looks as he finished. “Human Trafficking.” Jason answered. Both Mikhail and Lara nod in understanding.

It was the best Jason could come up with on the spot. It explained so much about her and would lead to less questions. “In that case, there’s a used car lot up the road. I’ll take you both there tomorrow and you can be on your way from there. There’s only one doctor in town, but I don't think he'll have what you two need. Son, there’s an old black overcoat and hoodie up in your closet. See if you can get both to fit over your gear tomorrow.” Mikhail planned.

“There should also be some older hoodies and jackets that will fit her.” Lara finished.

“If you don’t mind me asking. Who’s rooms are we staying in?” Jason asked. Trying to be mindful of the home. The couple lighting up across from them.

“They’re our children’s. They’re both out at the moment. One working in the city and the other finishing up college. I’m sure they won’t mind.” Lara dismissed.

“Thank you mister and missus……” Jason trailed off.

“Pushkin.” Lara answered

Chapter 23: A Day's Journey

Chapter Text

December 19th

“It’s actually really nice.” Jason thought. Looking at the old black overcoat laid out in front of him. Placed next to it was a gray hoodie. Which he already decided wasn’t going to work. He wanted access to what weapons he could get to in a pinch. So that meant no hoodie. To that end he reconfigured the layout of his gear. Removing the rifle mag pouches and disassembling the rifle into his backpack. He didn’t really bother to look at the thing before now and was pleased to see he had taken an HK416. He also placed one of his pistols and its holster with them. Pulling its mag as well.

Next, he shifted his knife from the back of his belt to the left leg holster his pistol used to occupy. Replacing the knife’s position with his grapple. He also placed his remaining three pistol clips on his left side. Figuring the pistol’s position on his right thigh would be discrete enough with the coat closed. Finally he removed his two shoulder plates. Knowing he’d never get them into the coat without looking suspicious.

He then pulled the coat from the bed. Swinging it around him and settling his arms within. He turned to a mirror and nodded. He looked a little like Alfred when he went to get groceries or out to run an errand. His mind registered the slightly bulky nature of his gauntlets in his sleeves. Which he remedied by cutting the sleeves slightly. Returning the coat to its original look. It would work for a drive through hostile territory.

Jason then worked his way back to the duffle and backpack. Pulling on the duffle and sliding the straps of the backpack on. His helmet held loosely in his left hand as he left the bedroom.Turning to knock on Cassie’s door. A cry of “One minute!” ringing out in Russian. Lara helped Cassie get ready this morning. Something Jason was quietly thankful for.

The door opened to Lara’s smiling face and Cassie’s beaming smile. Lara quietly dismissing herself as she slid past Jason and headed downstairs.

“This hoodie is soo soft! I have to know how she did it.” Cassie exclaimed. Obviously feeling better after getting an early breakfast and pain medication. Jason had quickly learned she wasn’t a morning person. She was dressed in Black yoga pants and the aforementioned hoodie. Her gear folded neatly on a nearby table. Which Jason discreetly slipped into the bag as the Amazon rambled.

“You set to go?” Jason asked. Replacing the bag and approaching her side. Cassie snapping to him.

“You’re missing the glasses there Neo.” Cassie sassed as she eyed his new look. Besides the metal greaves, he looked mostly normal. An impressive feat considering the armor that was hidden within.

Jason just rolled his eyes. Before dropping his helmet in her lap, a surprised yelp springing forth. He then gathered her in his arms and made his way downstairs and outside. Cassie messing with his helmet the whole time. Thumbing the scuffs and scratches.

“How do you see out of this?” Cassie asked as she held the helmet up to look inside. Its interior is solid black like the rest of it. It wouldn’t activate till it registered Jason’s biosignature or connected to his suit.

“Perfectly fine.” Jason answered cynically. Approaching Mikhail’s truck. The liftgate down and Lara already set up in the passenger seat. The older man greeting him with a nod, as Jason slid Cassie in the back again. Before he lifted himself in. Settling in his original spot and pulling his helmet back. Before a loud barking was heard by the house. Katya racing past and clambering up the open driver’s side door. Before settling in space between the driver and passenger. Mikhail mumbled something about being too damn fast and slammed the lift gate close. Shortly following his dog and turning over the engine

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The group ended up at the only used car lot for hundreds of miles by Jason’s estimation. The cars were older and obviously well driven. Jason eying a few with disdain as he took in their rusted grills and torn up seats.

“I like that white one.” Cassie said. Pointing at a 2010 Nissan Rogue. Jason slipped into a blank face as he wondered how she managed to choose his least favorite car in the lot.There was no way it’d make it to Nanda Parbat.They’d be more likely to slide off the road and cliff.

“No.” Jason said with an air of finality.

“How about one of those? They’re a bit bigger.” Cassie said as she waved a hand toward a series of vans. Jason only pays them one glance before turning to the rest of the lot. Eyes searching for a truck or jeep able to handle the elevation.

“You spent a lot of time with Kon. Surely he taught you a bit about cars?” Jason asked. Finally settling on a silver 2013 Toyota Forerunner. Making his way towards it. It seemed the owner knew what they were doing at first glance. Sturdy snow tires and suspension peeking out from the wheel wells. The interior is a cloth black without any holes or cuts. Finally Jason opened the driver’s door. Quickly popping the hood.

“And that’s a supercharger.: Jason thought happily. Whoever turned this in had good taste. It would go faster and pull more. Not that Jason would need the second option. But the whole design spoke of someone that liked to go offroad. Perfect for Jason’s needs.

“This one.” Jason called out. Already looking around for someone to haggle with. Spotting literally no one else in the lot. Which wasn't unexpected. They were in the middle of nowhere. He doubted very many people came out this way for cars. He made his way back over to Cassie and the couple who were watching him from the truck bed. The truck parked in an empty spot on the lot. He picked up Cassie and deposited her in the passenger seat. Their, read Jason’s gear, following shortly. As Jason made use of the back seats. He then turned and stalked off toward the building.

Finding an unlocked door and sleeping man at an office desk. He flicked the tiny bell above the door. Trying to wake the man. But the man didn’t even stir. To which Jason just glared. He then walked up to the desk and grabbed one of the metal visitor’s chairs. Lifting it up before dropping it with a metallic bang. The man still not stirring. Deciding he had wasted enough time at this point. Jason grabbed one of the large manuals and a binder. Clapping them together next to the man’s ear. The man shooting up like a rocket. Eyes scanning frantically.

“Oh good you’re awake. I’d like to buy the Toyota Forerunner,” Jason said in false sincerity. He could have stolen the lot by now, and the man would’ve never found out. But he was better than just stealing cars from small-time businesses.Tires not included in that assessment.

The man snorted before finally focussing on Jason. Looking at him like he personally came here to ruin the man’s day. Jason just stared unimpressed.

“Two point eight million rubles.” The man rattled out. Jason doing the math and finding it came out to about thirty k.

“Two.” Jason shot back. He’d go back into his grave before he paid above twenty-five k for that car. It didn’t matter if it was Uncle Sam’s money. Jason had principles when it came to cars. The top one was to not overpay.

“Two point six.” The man tried. Jason’s glare not shifting

“Two point one. Final offer.” Jason spouted. Watching the man shift at his desk. Before turning behind him to a safe. Spinning the dial and fishing out a pair of keys. Closing the safe with a thud. A grin plastered on his face.

“Cash or Credit?” The man said. Like he just won their little bidding war.

xxxxxxxxxx.

One hour later

After paying the man Jason had returned outside and said his goodbyes. Making a mental note to follow-up later and send a gift of some kind. While Cassie hugged the couple from the passenger seat. Shortly thereafter taking off toward Nanda Parbat. The car glided smoothly through the gravel roads.

“So…. Where are we going?” Cassie asked. Staring out the window as the endless forest cycled past. She normally would listen to music or read a book, but she didn’t have her phone on her. Much less a book.

Jason just grunted in reply. Trying to mentally account for his path home. As he searched for road signs or indicators of his position. But with where they were, it would be like finding gold. He was distracted from his search when he noticed a tree down ahead of them. Blocking the road.

He began to slow the truck as they approached the blockage. Jason scanning the surrounding forest as he shifted into park. Then powering off the engine. Still looking around. He felt something was off, and Cassie easily picked up on his agitation. Starting her own search as Jason glanced back towards his helmet and bag. A second later he unlocked the doors and passed the keys to Cassie, with a “Stay here.”

“Where am I going to go?” Cassie asked as he closed the door. Walking up to the tree and looking it over. It was a good sized sequoia tree. Seemingly healthy and strong. Which caused Jason to pause and look down its length. Trying to find the stump, and hopefully a charred endcap. But all Jason saw was a clean cut hidden from his view in the car.

“Damn it.” Jason mumbled as a loud rustling of leaves sounded to his left. A group of five men sauntering out of the forest. Confident in themselves as they hefted small axes, knives, and a club.

“Alright lovebirds! Hand over your wallets, jewelry, and electronics and no one gets hurt!” The presumed leader shouted in english from beneath his green hoodie. Idly spinning a club in his left hand as his similarly dressed compatriots giggled in the background. Leering at the car and bags within.

“Lovebirds?! Hell no! He’s just my chauffeur!” Cassie called out of the truck. Watching as the men converged on Jason. Who stood there with a bored expression. Slowly rolling his shoulders and loosening his neck as the men approached. It seemed he couldn’t go one day on this mission without some sort of workout.

The leader closed in. Reaching out to grab Jason by the front of his coat. But, in a flash, Jason had pulled him forward. Landing two rapid knees to his gut, one right after another. Before he finished him with a downwards elbow to the back of his head. The man crumpled to the ground in a heap. Out stone cold.

The others stood stunned. They had pulled this trick a hundred times, and never once had someone fought back. Hell, the most action they had seen was when some idiot had tried to run them over. His car was lost in a ditch, as the man hiked back to town. Eventually, one of them shook off their stupor and charged. Swiping his knife back and forth in a threatening display as he rushed. Jason just sidestepped the man and stuck a foot out. Tripping him and lodging the knife in his left shoulder as he fell. A scream scattering nearby birds as he rolled on the ground in anguish. The final three decided to try and rush Jason. The first swinging his ax like a baseball bat. Trying to catch Jason’s chest as he sidestepped again. Before lashing out with his own strike to the back of the man’s neck. Sending him downwards as his companions stabbed forth with their knives. Jason stepped away from the two as they lost their balance. Falling face first onto the ground. Their arms outstretched still. Before a metal boot crashed down on the men’s hands in turn. The sound of broken bones announcing their now broken hands.

Jason surveyed the group. Most clutching their injuries and sobbing. He then turned back to the truck to see Cassie within. Taking in her own view of the men. Before catching sight of his gaze and throwing him a thumbs up and smile. To which Jason just shook his head.

He then went over to the most coherent one in the group. One of the two men that had their hands turned to mush. Who was slowly rocking on his knees. Seemingly babbling about nonsense to try and alleviate the pain.

“How do I move the tree?” Jason asked neutrally. Watching as the man’s gaze snapped towards him in fear. Both eyes are bloodshot and wide.

“We…(sniffle).. We…. usually roll it. It's easy (sniffle)… to set it up that way.” The man explained. Fighting back tears.

Jason nodded at that. Eying the end of the tree and trying to figure out if he could do it on his own. Really all he needed was momentum and it would do most of the work. But he didn’t think he had the strength to do it on his own. But then a thought occurred to him. A smirk breaking across his face, which caused the wounded man to shiver.

“Thanks for telling me. Goodnight.” Jason said as he struck the man’s temple. Sending him to dreamland. The rest of his friends followed shortly. Then he started his clean up. Dragging the men back into their bushes and looting what money and cards he could from their pockets. His gauntlet was great for almost anything, but it drew attention if he just waved a hand and people got paid. He then went to Cassie’s door. Opening it to the sight of a confused Amazon.

“Let's go, Sandstone. We’re burning daylight.” Jason said as he gathered her up bridal style. Before making his way around the tree and onto its opposite side.

“Grab the tree. I’ll step and then you pull.” Jason instructed the young woman. Watching her lean out and grasp the fallen tree. Before pulling it towards her easily. Jason then took a step back and had Cassie pull it again. Repeating the process till the tree was moved and their car free. Depositing Cassie back in the passenger seat before strapping in himself.

However, Cassie paused. Eyeing the bushes across from him. “What about them?” she asked. Watching as Jason just shrugged. Starting the car and slowly pulling forward.

“They’ll be fine.” He dismissed.

xxxxxxxxxx

Several Hours Later

Jason sped up the side of a mountain. Cassie gripping her handle and seat like a lifeline. Feeling and hearing the squeal of tires and shifting dirt below them. As Jason powerslid through a tight corner before speeding back up. Putting the truck through its paces as he continued his path.

They had made it out of Markovia with little issue. The small nation didn’t have the manpower to monitor every spot along the border and Jason had elected to just offroad around the check points. Stopping only for gas and a small snack. The surrounding landscape had long ago settled into a green plain with Jason’s target in the distance. Which he was now navigating like a professional offroader.

Speeding down the dirt and gravel paths like it was his home turf. A cloud of dust in his wake. He had always enjoyed thrill seeking and stunt driving had been a passion since he first learned to drive. So with the opportunity to speed up tight twists and turns of a mountain, Jason was making the most of it. It also helped that these roads were lightly traveled. Jason’s target village being the only sign of civilization.

Jason rounded another corner. Pressing on the gas and feeling the power of the engine as he jumped forward. A loud growl emitting from the engine as it charged forward. Jason shifted gears again and fed more gas to the beast. Racing against himself as he rotated the wheel left and right with the road. Correcting for the bumps and jumps as he went.

“Do you think…….. What the hell! …… That you could!……. Holy Shhh.” A large bump interrupted her before she whipped to Jason. “Slow Down!” Cassie cried.

Eliciting a genuine laugh from Jason as he continued his race. Knowing he had just reached the straight away. Putting his foot to the floor and causing the truck to lurch forward. The world narrowed around him as he sped forth. Before shortly passing a sign that indicated he was less than a mile from the village. To which he began to bleed off speed. Satisfied that he had beat his nonexistent record.

Cassie meanwhile began to take deep breaths in and out. Coming down from her adrenaline high. Glaring at the man across from her as he navigated his way into the village. Passing small stands with villagers advertising their foods and products. Others spared them a passing glance as Jason worked his way to the other end of the village. A small path hidden behind the edge of the village.

“You could have killed us!” Cassie exclaimed through her series of calming breaths. Trying to find out if she had heat vision. But unfortunately that was outside the amazon’s skillset, instead trying to bore a hole into Jason’s head with her gaze. Who had elected to ignore her, in favor of parking.

He then turned off the engine and exited the car. Wandering to the back and loading up the duffle and carrying the backpack around to Cassie’s door. He set the backpack on the ground and withdrew the medikit. Before pulling another syringe and loading the now closed backpack on his back again.

“You’re fine.” Jason dismissed again as he opened the door and jabbed an irate Cassie with the needle. Before withdrawing and packing away the now used needle. A practice from being Robin. Cassie just continued to glare. As Jason seemingly relaxed. Arms crossing his chest and eyeing the amazon. A new scowl and glare formed as he spoke.

“Let me be clear, Sandsmark. I don’t trust you and I don’t like that you know. I’ve put a lot of effort into staying away from heroes. So here’s the deal, you’ll stay quiet and go about like nothing is wrong. Because nothing is wrong.” Jason growled lowly. Letting the young woman rise to meet his gaze.

“And if I don’t?” Cassie asked. A challenge in her tone.

“I’ll hit you and yours where it hurts, and I promise you....... I won’t allow any of you back up.” Jason answered. Tone menacing and cold. He knew he could back that up. He’d spent years not only around many of the heroes, but actively planning how to beat them. Hell, his nuclear option was to outright hack the news stations and websites to leak the identities of most of the heroes. Along with their addresses. But that again was his nuke. He had plenty of ways to make it hurt beyond that. So he glared back. A silent whisper to challenge him echoing between the two.

Cassie was the first to look away. Spitting out, “Fine. I won’t tell Tim” Before she shifted. “I still think you should call him. Its been…… rough for them since you disappeared.” She tried. Looking at him with a bit of hope.

That was stomped out when he only narrowed his eyes. The silent rejection palpable in his gaze. As the amazon sagged slightly.

“So what's the plan now? The CIA takes us to a blacksite and we fly home?” Cassie asked. Trying to shift the conversation. While Jason just continued to watch her. Like he was waiting for her to say or do something. His left fingers tapping in rhythm on his right bicep. “Why do you keep looking at me like that?” She asked. Noticeably starting to slur her words. As the world began to rock.

“That’s why.” Jason answered. Pulling on his helmet and shifting his gear again.

Cassie struggled to maintain her glare on him. Constantly dipping back and forth as she fought. But it was no use. Eventually she fell to the ground at his feet. Jason crouching down to meet her confused gaze.

“They had sedatives.” A cold voice echoed as she slipped into unconsciousness.

Chapter 24: Christmas Present

Chapter Text

Two hours later.

Jason trudged up the mountain path. Cold wind whipping around him as he hefted Cassie on his shoulders. Small bits of snow and ice fell to the ground in front of him as he hiked. The landscape having now changed to a majestic view of the surrounding snow capped mountains and valleys. Slowly descending into the grip of night as the moon illuminated his path. It was enough for him to drift to the events of the past few days.

It honestly wasn’t too far off from his old Outlaw’s missions. Running mostly on speed and quick reactions. It was……. nostalgic. Jason decided. But he couldn’t help but wonder how he went from never dealing with heroes to having two missions with their interference prevalent. He knew that he only had the scientist to blame for the first one, and the JLA’s paranoia for the second. But still. It was an unwelcome addition to his new schedule. Luckily for him, all he had to do was get through a Zeta tube and the mission was complete. An easy feat.

But then the real danger started. Like how he was going to explain how he landed in Markovia to Slade, and more importantly Rose. One would tear his head off for threatening to leave their daughter a single mother. The other………… well, Jason did say he wanted to be cremated the second time around. Plus, now he had to be concerned about Cassie and her naivety.

She was smart and probably knew what he could do if she pissed him off. But being paranoid was wired into him. So he’d have to take some precautions. Which he already planned around. He doubted his “precaution” would put up much of a fight. She knew that he would burn the world down for her if she asked. So why not expect the same.

He rounded the final bend and came face to face with a large double door inlaid with the mountain. Its red, Japanese inspired frame stood in sharp contrast to the surrounding rocks and black doors. Two guards, dressed in standard League gear, stood on either side of the door. Their body language tensed as he strode forth. Eyeing his overcoat, black helmet, and strange backpack.

Jason stopped a few yards away from them. Setting Cassie and the backpack against the rock wall carefully. He then stood back to his full height and ordered in League dialect, “Tell your master that the Outlaw has come to see her. He also brought……… a stowaway.” Crossing his arms and proceeding to lean against the mountain wall. As both guards turned to one another. A silent discussion passing quickly before one disappeared through the door. The other moving to block the path in. Still watching the stranger as he just relaxed. Seemingly content to enjoy their little staring contest. Or so the guard thought. He couldn’t really see anything through the mask.

Eventually the doors burst open once more. The guard from before leading the way as a small group of armed and armored women passed through. Talia’s personal guards conducting their own sweep before settling beside the two guards. Talia marched out shortly after. Her gaze was hard and neutral before taking in the sight of his gear. Immediately softening and allowing a small upturn of her lips.

“Hi Mom.” Jason greeted. As he pushed off the wall and removed his helmet. His shaggy hair and faded scars greeting the world.

“Habibi, it's good to see you.” Talia said as she made her way over.Pulling him into a tight hug, which Jason returned. She had taken over the league around the same time he fled Gotham. Implementing new policies and rules which allowed for greater freedom and expression. Something she was denied under Ra’s. Since then, the League has changed considerably. Often being hired to just steal intel or act as counter surveillance, over assassinations. Which Jason may or may not have encouraged by suggesting Waller look into using their talents. They still completed assassinations, but now they had far more funding and freedom to complete their mission of creating a better world. Which Talia was utilizing in every way she could. She released him and watched as he shifted slightly from foot to foot.

“Sorry to drop in unannounced, but I kinda need to borrow a zeta tube.” Jason started sheepishly. Before turning and casting a hand to Cassie. Who was still dead to the world. “And possibly get her a cast.” He finished. Talia just continued to smirk at him. Eyes revealing her amusem*nt at his position.

“Of course Habibi. It's a nice change to have you uninjured for once.” Talia said as she waved her men toward Cassie and the bag. One throwing the pack on their back before crouching and helping his partner carry the Amazon. Both leading the way back into the mountain as Talia’s guards followed. Jason and Talia bringing up the rear.

“I’m not always injured,” Jason scoffed. Sure, when he started out he had a penchant for coming back slightly bloodied and bruised. But after his failed plan in Gotham left him with a slit throat, he resolved to be better. Working through the pit with Talia and upping his own training. As far as he can remember, he hasn’t come back bloody since then. Hell, Roy nursed him back to health after Batman’s tantrum.

“Sure you don’t Habibi. Now how did you get here? This is a bit out of your way I believe.” Talia assured as she changed the conversation.

Jason immediately answered, “Plane crashed. I had to walk for a day before buying a truck and driving here.” His tone held level and face giving nothing away. Talia just side eyed him. She knew he was reckless at times. But he had gotten a lot better since Slade started training him.

“Did you crash the plane?” She asked. Which startled a full laugh from Jason.

“I’m not that predictable T.” Jason said. Coming down from his laughter.

“And her?” Talia continued. Gesturing forward to Cassie. While watching Jason’s face slightly sour.

“They need a bigger “f*ck Off” sign. I’m thinking some well placed tips and rumors surrounding Queen Industries and Wayne Enterprises should be enough to draw in the IRS.” Jason said. Already thinking up his proposal to Waller. She was probably already on a warpath, and if he gave her a target that f*cked with Bruce. All the better.

Talia just let out a small “Tut.”. Disapproval at his language clear.

They continued along until they came upon the medical center. Its modern machinery and white walls stood in sharp contrast to the dark, modern Japanese look the League had cultivated in the rest of the compound. The two guards deposited Cassie on the nearest table, before one of the medical staff came around and powered up the table. A robotic arm lifting and conducting a full body scan of its patient. The results appeared in real time on the screen opposite the physician.

“It looks to be a clean break. We’ll get it in a cast and send her on her way.” The medical professional observed. Already turning to pull the equipment she needed to wrap the leg.

“Give her another sedative. I don’t need her waking up yet.” Jason called.

The physician stopped in her journey and gave him a slight nod. Before continuing on toward the many closets and cabinets that lined the walls. Pulling the plaster and needle before returning to the table. The group left silently as they left her to her work.

“Do you have a phone I could borrow, T?” Jason asked.

xxxxxxxxxx

Artemis rolled underneath the lazy swing of the practice bot. Lashing out with a kick to its lower leg and sending it tumbling. Its partner moving to take up the slack and sending a right hook to the back of the Amazon’s head. Said Amazon attempted to roll away again. Red hair flailing out as she did so. The robot’s fist connecting with the floor below, before ceasing all motion to Artemis’s confusion.

“Red!” A voice called out. Making the Amazon realize that she had been blocking everything else out. She turned and spotted the pale white skin of M’gann. Hovering near the benches and waving Artemis’s phone around.

“You have a call.” M’gann finished. Noticing that she finally caught the attention of the woman. “And all it took was an emergency shutdown of the training bots.” She thought wryly. Passing the phone over as Artemis approached. Who quickly accepted the call.

“Hello?”

“Finally, Princess! You know the phone only works if you listen to it right?” Jason asked dramatically. A genuine grin breaking out across Artemis’s face.To M’gann’s surprise.

“I have been told that, yes. What do you need, little one?” She asked. Hearing a huff come across the line. It never failed to amuse her how put out Jason would be with the nickname. Complaints of not being little or small being constant in their little team. Which in any other team would be true.

“I……. found something of yours?” Jason tried. It's not like he could come out and say he had Cassie. Too many wandering ears occupied the mountain.

“And what exactly have you found? I believe that we agreed to meet in a few days. It can’t wait till then?” Artemis challenged. She knew she wasn’t missing anything personally. But the team was scrambling. Trying to find her sister. She knew Cassie could take care of herself, but even she was concerned. But she didn’t have the technical knowhow to hack militaries, so she was trying to stay focused. Ready for whenever they did find the wayward Amazon. She’d be damned to Hades before she let them go alone.

“No, it can’t. Can you head down to the zeta tubes? Alone?” Jason answered

Artemis co*cking an eyebrow before turning toward the tubes. Waving off M’gann as she went. The martian, curious, but not willing to upset the woman, headed back towards the common room.

Artemis entered the room as her ax turned the corner. Flying into her grip before the zeta tube lit up. She couldn’t stop the eye roll before calling out to Jason.

“Always so dramatic, little one.”

“You know me, Art. Gotta make a statement when you enter the room.” Jason chuckled.

xxxxxxxxxx

Jason watched as the brightness of the tube increased for a second, before the red haired Amazon made her way out. Ax clutched in one hand, while dressed in training gear.

“What? Is it a lazy day?” Jason teased. Smile growing as the Amazon’s expression soured.

“I was working off some stress.” Artemis dismissed. Now taking in Jason’s coat and armored greaves. “Why do you have a coat on and where did you get it?” She asked.It was soo far off from the Jason she knew. Often only sticking to his leather jacket.

“I found it at the same time I found that.” Jason said. Pointing to an unconscious Cassie on a table. Leg encased in a cast and sound asleep. Artemis simply gapped at her sleeping sister. Month opening and closing a few times as she searched for the words. Eventually settling for the obvious one.

“How?”

“Apparently, we run in similar circles.” Jason answered lightly. The Amazon narrowing her eyes on him. She knew he probably was still out there. Causing trouble with an ungodly amount of explosions, but to go into an isolationist country and pull Cassie out. He wasn’t close enough to the girl to even consider the thought.

“Jason.” Artemis admonished. Growing more irritated at the growing smirk on his face.

“Relax. Think of it as an early Christmas present! She even has a new jacket as wrapping!” Jason continued. Enjoying the slowly growing vein in the middle of Artemis’s forehead. It was always fun to push her buttons now and again.

“Jason.” Artemis bit out. Annnnnd the funs done. Time to wrap it up.

“Ok, in all seriousness. She got in the way of one of my missions. Apparently, I chose the one valley in Markovia to make camp, that was an impromptu landing zone. So, after watching her tank an airburst to the jaw. I joined in on the fun. After that, we hiked a bit across the country, until I bought us a car and now here we are.” Jason explained. As he pulled a bag from the floor and approached Artemis. Handing her the bag before continuing.

“That’s all her gear. She should be up in a bit. But I need you to keep an eye on her, Arty. She figured out somethings that I would rather keep away from the bats.” Jason finished. Looking seriously into Artemis’s gaze.

Artemis staredback before saying, “Of course, Jay. I’ll make sure she stays quiet, but what am I listening or watching for?”

“Anything involving me, Rose, or the baby. She’s been around Tim too much and figured out what I’ve been doing for the past few years pretty quickly. I’ve already expressed my position, but I want to keep tabs on her.” Jason explained to his friend. Who nodded in understanding.

“Done, and how do I explain walking into the mountain with her?” Artemis asked.

Jason thought about that for a second. “Tell them that your friend works for the CIA and wanted to return a lost puppy. Tim will go looking, but I doubt he’ll go too deep. Plus, I doubt any of them will care.”

Artemis nodded and pulled Cassie from the table. Her ax still held in her right hand as they made their way back to the portal.

“See you at Christmas, Arty.” Jason grinned before sending the smirking Amazon on her way. The tube powering down as he turned and pulled his own gear. Typing in the coordinates to his home as Talia sauntered into the room.

“See you at Christmas, Habibi.” Talia said with a smile and hug. Jason returned both before throwing a small two fingered salute as he entered the portal.

xxxxxxxxxx

Jason entered the OPS Center and dropped the backpack, duffle bag, and coat on the table. His helmet followed as he turned toward the stairs and his kitchen. He emerged to his clean kitchen and scampering of nails. Bear having long ago heard his arrival and waited to escape his mom to say hi. Jason crouched and fondly rubbed the puppy’s head. A small yap ringing through the home.

“Honey?!” Jason called out. Looking around for Rose. He doubted she’d be out, but then again she was prone to impromptu shopping missions or walks. He stood and made his way to the family room. To find Rose sprawled out on the couch. Asleep with her arms splayed out. Indicating Bear must have been sleeping to, in her arms. He leaned down and placed a small kiss on her forehead. He turned to go and get a shower, before a hand grabbed him. Pulling him back down into a passionate kiss. As Rose had woken up when his lips touched her head. Breaking apart.

“Welcome Home.” Rose said softly.

Chapter 25: That's Not a Christmas Present

Chapter Text

December 23

“Do you want to explain yourself?”

Slade sat across from Jason. Eye narrowed as he awaited the kid’s answer. They had just finished reviewing his helmet cam footage of the plane and subsequent engagement on the ground, again. An impressive display for any of Nemesis’s agents. But Slade wasn’t asking as trainer or handler at the moment. He was asking as a father. Who just watched his soon to be son-in-law throw himself out of a plane without a parachute or backup plan. It was why this discussion was being considered unofficial and off the books.

“I’ll be honest, I kinda expected the lecture from Waller too.” Jason said. Hiding his discomfort behind snark and bravo. The standard procedure.

Slade just snorted.

“That woman is too busy trying to figure out where those false Delta’s came from. Plus, I think you really impressed her after that stunt. She’s not used to someone so…… dedicated to the mission. Combine that with returning the elements and providing her another justification to f*ck with the JLA. I’m sure the President will be presenting you with some sort of medal soon. But in the meantime, you get to deal with me.” Slade said with an evil grin.

Jason internally sighed. When he dropped off the elements and his suit a few hours ago, he hoped they could wait till after Christmas to debrief him. But noooo. They had to get it all documented and filed away while it was still fresh. Thus, he ended up in a room with Waller, Slade, April, and some other officials he never bothered to remember. He was sure they were important somewhere, just not to him. The group then proceeded to watch his and April’s footage. Pausing to ask questions or note certain details. Jason was sure they’d breakdown the footage later and have entire teams devoted to finding out where the Delta’s came from. But in the meantime, he had to put up with answering their questions.

Surprisingly, no one said or asked anything during his skydiving stunt. Which Jason initially chalked up to being stunned. But that notion quickly left him when they resumed their questions and observations during the ground engagement. It seemed they didn’t rightly care what stunts he may or may not have pulled. They only cared that they had the elements now and potential leads. A mindset Jason could appreciate.

April was a different story though. During the meeting, she was professional and carefully blank faced. As if this was just another mission. Answering questions like him with a neutral tone and not commenting on the footage. Afterwards, in the privacy of the training block, she slugged his left shoulder with everything she had. Numbing the arm and starting her tirade.

“What the actual f*ck is wrong with you?! No! Don’t answer that! Your girlfriend has told me enough to figure some of it out!”
“Fiancee.” Jason corrected automatically. He and Rose had told the other agents their new situation and everyone seemed excited for them. Questions being thrown toward them about wedding dates, baby showers, and honeymoon plans. To which the couple told them to wait till after the holidays. Mainly so they could focus on the plans themselves.

“That doesn’t make it better! At what point did throwing yourself out of the plane seem like a good idea?!” April continued. She knows Jason and Rose can be a bit……….reckless. But never to this extent. It was normally coordinated or planned chaos.

“I wasn’t thinking, April. All I saw was the men jumping and I reacted.” Jason responded. He wasn’t going to tell her it was an old habit from being Red Hood. He was prone to doing stupid and incredibly dangerous stuff like that in costume. But he’d toned it back since leaving Gotham. More focused on being efficient and safe, over whatever adrenaline rush he might get. Truthfully, he hadn’t had a full adrenaline rush in three years. It was more the pit influencing his movements and perception of the world, rather than anything natural.

April huffed. “You need to think before you do anything like that again, Jason. Or so help me god, Rose won’t have to worry about killing you and hiding your body. I’ll kill you with a shovel myself.”

Jason chuckled at that. Before noticing Slade over her shoulder. “I think you’ll have to get in line there, April.” He said as he made his way around her. April turing and noticing Slade observing them.

“Sir! I have second dibs on killing Agent Knight should he ever do something like that again! Sir!” April called after Jason and Slade.

Slade chuckling and throwing a wave over his shoulder. “Noted Agent! I have dibs on the shovel though.” As both he and Jason left for Slade’s office. Which is where Jason was currently. Trying to not make things worse for himself.

“As I told April, it was all reactionary. I just saw them jump and couldn’t let them get away. So I jumped.”

Sladed hummed at that. Tone conveying that he was unimpressed. He knew exactly what Jason was capable of. Ever since he started his training with the League. But he continually forgot just how insane Jason could be at times. The kid didn’t know the meaning of “self-preservation” or “property damage” if he felt the mission was important enough. To be fair, Slade couldn’t fault Jason for everything he could to assure mission success. It was a mark of a good agent.

“So jumping out of a perfectly good plane as Red Hood was normal?” Slade asked.

“I mean……. I also used them as battering rams. It's hard to defend against a private jet knocking on your door.” Jason shrugged. Watching Slade’s face remain completely blank. Which in his opinion was very impressive. Almost anyone else would look at him like he was crazy. He wasn’t, but that’s beside the point.

xxxxxxxxxx

Cassie woke with a start. Chest heaving and adrenaline flowing as she took in her surroundings. The room slowly stabilizing into the medical wing of the Mountain. Which immediately threw her for a loop. The last thing she remembered was falling to ground as the world spun. She blinked a few times as her eyes shifted back and forth. Trying to remember more. Before in what felt like a flash, everything returned. The plane, breaking her leg, hiking across an isolationist nation,....... Jason.

“That asshole!” She screamed. Furious at being tricked so easily. She was an Amazon damn it! Great warriors that held back the darkness from men’s world. They didn’t fall for simple tricks like this.

“Sounds like you’re awake.” Tim joked lightly as he entered the room. Carrying a tray of food that he grabbed on his way past the kitchen. He’d been monitoring her as he worked on a few cases. Benard had convinced him to take it easy with the upcoming holiday, so he was limiting himself to only one or two cases a day.

“How in hades did I get here?” Cassie asked as she took the tray. Tim shifting to the various monitors and computers around her.

“Red carried you in a few days ago. Gave Kon and M’gann a heart attack” Tim chuckled. Ensuring her vitals were still stable and monitoring for any changes in blood pressure.

“Days!” Cassie all but screamed. Before shifting back numbly. “How long Tim?”

“Four days. Whatever sedative you got is insane. Even Red said she was surprised her contact gave you something so strong.” Tim explained. Now taking in the wide eyes and slowly blinking expression on Cassie’s face.

“What did Artemis’s contact say?” Cassie had to ask. She knew Jason was an ass. The offroad racing and drugging being her best examples. But she didn’t think he’d go so far as to knock her out for more than a day.

“Apparently, their superiors made a good case, and also already dosed you before they knew.” Tim shrugged. He still didn’t know how Artemis Grace of all people knew people in the CIA. Much less someone able to pull Cassie out of a foreign country, but that’s their job he guesses. Plus, its on the schedule to look into after Christmas. The JLA could use someone of that caliber.
It was this line of thought that brought Tim back to the previous week. He and the rest of the team were seconds away from dive bombing into Markovia after losing Cassie’s signal. f*ck whatever treaties they had. But then of course Bruce called. Probably monitoring them as he worked watch duty in the Watchtower. He ordered them back to base and to be benched till he got Cassie out of Markovia. A declaration which had Tim ready to teleport up to the Watchtower in a fury of fists. But then Bruce pointed out that Markovia threatened nuclear action should the JLA interfere in their affairs, which ended most arguments for Tim.

So they returned home, sans teammate, and began to plan how to infiltrate Markovia. f*ck Bruce and whatever plan he had. Tim would be damned before he left his teammate and friend behind.They were on the verge of a plan to land in the far out wilderness and then just hiking inland to the landing area they narrowed down. Dressed in civilian clothes. Then they would just systematically search the nearest bases and police stations till they got a hit. Not their most inventive plan, but it would work to get them a lead.

Then Artemis just sauntered into the room with Cassie held bridal style. Asleep and sporting a new cast. Which sky rocketed both Kon and M’gann’s blood pressure. Both of them converging and fretting over the girl. While Tim stood back shocked and Jaime confused.

“Is this how it usually works? I thought Batman would at least say hi.” Jaime asked Tim at the time. Still learning how this hero gig worked.

Tim shook off those thoughts as his mind returned to Cassie’s room. She seemed more calm now. Slowly eating her food.

“Cassie…… I have to ask. How did you get out of Markovia and what happened to your leg?’ Tim shifted. His detective side taking over and wanting to gather evidence.

Cass looked away at this point. Mind working out what she could and couldn’t say. She had to give Tim something though. If he just miraculously showed up in the Mountain after being left behind, she’d be interrogating him too.

“One of the soldiers that jumped was a part of the US Military. He carried me across the country before……. I don’t know. All I know is we stopped in some village in the middle of nowhere and now here I am.” Cass said as she fiddled with the hem of the blanket.

“And the leg?” Tim prompted. While casting a hand toward her new cast.

“One of the other soldiers fired a grenade at me. It exploded and sent me crashing into some rocks. I guess it broke on impact.” Cassie finished. Before taking a sip of water.

“Did you get the soldier’s name that helped you? I think he deserves a Christmas gift.” Tim shrugged. Trying to lighten the mood. But seemingly failing as Cassie’s face went a bit sour before answering him.”
“He’s………. not a fan. I think we should leave him be.” Cassie answered.

“Why? He wasn’t in Corto Maltese was he?”

“No, he was…… gruff. I don’t think he particularly liked having me around. I think it was more a, “if I want to sleep at night I need to help her” thing. I’m sure having me and us out of his way is the best gift we could give him.” Cassie finished.

Which caused Tim to tilt his head quizzically. It wasn’t often they ran into someone that was less than pleased to see them. Usually it was just the villains. But then again not everyone shares the same opinion on heroes as America does. He decided to file that away to look into later when he went digging for Artemis’s friend. Two birds and one stone.

“Well next time you see him, we’ll have to change his mind on that. I’m sure five minutes with Bart will have him being your number one fan.” TIm chuckled.

Cassie snorted from her bed. Remembering all the times Bart would annoy the people they captured by asking a rapid fire series of questions. Before his attention shifted elsewhere and they were forced to restart the cycle. Tim then decided he should end on a good note and let his friend rest.

“I’m glad you’re back Cassie. Christmas wouldn’t be the same without you here.” Tim smiled as he put a hand on her shoulder. Trying to comfort the Amazon. Who gave him a wide smile back.

“Of course it wouldn’t! I still have to give you your gag gifts.” She laughed.

xxxxxxxxxx

“So let me get this straight. Your Christmas gift to me is that you won’t tell Rose about my leap of faith till after Christmas.” Jason deadpanned. Still wondering how not being blackmailed was a Christmas gift. Then again……..

“Yep.” Slade grinned with all teeth. Reminding Jason of a cat that caught a canary.

“Ok………. Why?” Jason asked, He already knew he was going to have to tell Rose. But not before Christmas. Plus, if he played his cards right he’d be out of the dog house by New Years.

Slade just grinned further, “Kid, you keep forgetting I used to be married. I know how important the first Christmas with an expecting mother is. So……..I’m not going to be the one that screws it up.”

“Then it's not a Christmas gift, it's self preservation.” Jason pointed out.To which the bastard just laughed. “Also, haven't you done the same thing?”

“Kid, I did that when the kids were all grown and we were divorced. Very different from your little adventure.” Slade retorted. To which Jason couldn’t argue against. Although he was getting a bit tired of guilt tripping. He knew he was f*cked the moment he retrieved the elements. Thank you very much.

“Fine. Just wait till the twenty-sixth then. I was going to tell her anyway.” Jason growled.

To which Slade looked inordinately proud of himself. “I’m the Robin he likes and he still f*cks with me.” Jason thought dryly.

Jason then stood to leave. He still had to pick up his armor and file some final paperwork. The Military seemed to love its redundancies and paperwork was its finest gem.

xxxxxxxxxx

Somewhere…….

“They got the elements.” A deep, unimpressed voice said.

“It's no matter. We have additional followers among them. I doubt it'll be long till we find them again.” The pompous voice responded. Dismissive of their partner’s concerns.

“I woulda thought the JL losers would be our biggest problem. What’s up with the new government pitbull?” A slightly higher voice spoke.

“Unknown. I am unable to find any mention of them within the government's servers.” A highly mechanical voice said.

“They’re dangerous. They moved through my forces like it was nothing.” A feminine voice pointed out. One or two of the others nodded along on screen, before the pompous voice returned.

“It matters not. My followers will have the elements found and brought to us. I’ll see to it personally.”

“See that you do.” The deep voice finished.

Chapter 26: Merry Christmas

Chapter Text

December 25th

Jason awoke to the feeling of something pointy and soft batting his cheek. Soft huffs of air cascading over his face. Opening one eye, he caught sight of Bear’s next hit. Which landed directly on his nose as he turned to address the puppy.

“It’s Christmas, I’m allowed to sleep in.” Jason mumbled. Trying to justify staying in bed with Rose a little longer before having to deal with the chaos of the holiday. Bear just tilted his head and stared. Conveying he had no idea what that meant, but it was breakfast and for some reason his bowl was empty. Bear stood up and inched a bit closer before sitting back down. He then reached out again. This time, his paw landed directly in the middle of Jason’s forehead and stayed. Bear looked down at Jason like he was concerned for the man's health. Because it was breakfast and they were behind schedule. Jason just glared unimpressed at the puppy before a giggle beside him drew his attention.

“You doing ok there Simba?” Rose questioned through her giggle. From her position it looked like Bear was trying to mark Jason with his paw.

“Everything the light touches is my kingdom now. You should be honored you’re marrying such a king.” Jason returned lightly. Face lighting up in a smile as Rose’s grin grew.

Bear, however, was unamused. So he decided that Jason needed more motivation. Standing again, he clambered up the bulk of Jason’s chest. Before flopping down heavily on him. Just staring up at Jason with wide pitiful eyes. A loud sigh erupting from the puppy as he did so.

“You act like we don’t feed you. You’re literally the most well fed puppy in Colorado.” Jason grumbled as he returned Bear’s glare. Remembering all the hand cooked meals that made their way into Bear’s bowl. A bad habit they couldn’t seem to break. The dog in question always guilt tripped them when they didn’t add anything. They were apparently weak to wide eyes and pouting. Which meant they were f*cked when their kid got here.

Deciding he was not going to get anymore sleep, Jason swung his legs out of bed and made his way toward the closet. Returning a moment later in a hoodie as Rose rounded the bed. Approaching him and placing a soft hand on his chest. Before leaning forward and capturing his lips in a soft kiss. That shut down the surrounding sounds. Both completely enraptured in themselves. Rose broke off first and smiled up at him.

“Merry Christmas, Jay.”

“Merry Christmas, Rosie.”

xxxxxxxxxx

It was a little after two in the afternoon when the first of the guests made their way in. Talia was always one to be fashionably early. Something she drilled into both Damian and Jason. She stood in the kitchen and admired the snow outside. Her gifts had been placed under the tree as Jason finished a final batch of cookies and Rose worked to steal as many from the cooling rack without Jason seeing.

“Rose, you try to take one more cookie and I’m taking a hand.” Jason called out as he observed the final batch brown. Rose, meanwhile, had paused mid way across the room. Eye watching the back of Jason’s head and weighing her options. She then shot Talia a quick look before turning back to Jason.

“To do what with Jason?” Rose asked in a sultry and innocent sounding voice. Which sent Jason shooting upwards. Catching his head on the oven handle and rattling the kitchen. Curses flowing freely and in multiple languages. Rose had taken this opportunity to steal two cookies and make her way to Talia. Who just watched as her son blushed as red as his old helmet. A small smirk coloring her face, as she took the extra offered cookie from Rose.

“Rose!” Jason reprimanded as he looked between the two women.

“What? You usually have better comebacks Jay.” Rose questioned with a smirk matching Talia’s

“T is right there!” Jason waved. Feeling the need to defend his new flustered appearance.

“No, don't stop on my account. It's amusing to see you so put out Habibi.” Talia teased. Which caused Jason to shoot her a dirty look before returning to his cookies. Rose enjoying her meal smugly next to her fiance’s mom.

It was a few moments later that Artemis and Kori made their presence known. Kori immediately flying through the kitchen and dropping her gifts like a small bomber under the tree. Before turning and scooping up Bear. Who snuggled into his favorite heater friend. Kori was dressed in a red blouse and black yoga pants. A Santa hat perched on her head.

“Friends! Its good to see you! The Merry Christmas to you as well!” She said as she landed next to Talia and Rose. Pulling both into a quick side hug. Before watching Jason deposit the last of the cookies on a sheet.

Artemis meanwhile just calmly walked past and dropped her own gifts below the tree. Then settling herself in line with the other women. Greeting them each in turn with a nod.

“Happy holidays little one. Ladies”

Jason waved over his shoulder as he finished plating the cookies. Face still slightly red. Which was immediately picked up by Kori. Who, ever the good friend, asked.

“Are you ok Jay? You look a bit warm.”

“I’m fine Kori. Rose is just………….. very bold”

Which drew a laugh from the woman in question as they followed him to the family room. Everyone found a seat on the couches as Jason started to pass out the gifts.

xxxxxxxxxx

Gotham

Tim was sat next to Benard on the sectional couch that seemed to make up the entirety of Barbara and Dick’s penthouse family room. Truthfully though, that was an over exaggeration. The family room was an open concept with a large TV, coffee table, end tables, and bar stools which led to the accompanying kitchen. Its floors are a light hardwood oak and covered in carpets to designate the seating areas. With a circular staircase that led to the many bedrooms and offices upstairs. Dick long ago decided to provide each one of them their own room. Overall, Tim would describe it as…… nice.

“Barbara! Sit down! Me and Cass can take care of the cookies!” Steph’s cheerful cry pierced the calm.

The blonde in question was trying to wrestle away the flour and other many ingredients from Barbara. Who was looking very annoyed at her successor. Meanwhile Cass just watched on from the barstool and waited till Barbara exhausted herself avoiding Steph. She knew that Barbara wasn’t as energetic these days and it would only be a matter of time before she gave up and settled on the couch with the others.

“Steph, the only thing I’ve seen you bake is waffles.” Barbara deadpanned back. Smacking the back of Steph’s outreached hand with a wooden spoon. Ending the blonde’s attempt at swiping the bowls away.

“And they’re amazing! How much harder can……… Wipe that look off your face Demon Brat!” Steph defended before noticing Damian’s look over the sectional. A scowl painting his features.

“Maybe we should skip the cookies this year. You seem to be living up to your moniker, Fatgirl.” Damian snarked.

Which caused Duke to sigh aloud and move from his position next to the teenager. Mumbles of “Nope, I like this jacket.” and “It's not a holiday without fratricide.’ Sarcastically emerging from the young man. Who settled comfortably across from Tim and Benard, in an armchair.

Cass watched as Steph’s look turned from playful fun to down right murderous. The smile still plastered on her face. She then held out her hand to Barbara, making a grabbing motion. Which caused a sigh to erupt from the pregnant woman as she handed over the spoon.

“It’s Christmas Damian! You're supposed to be nice! Like this…………. You have a five second head start.” Steph called, spinning the spoon idly.

Damian immediately sprang up and mantled the coffee table. Benard reaching out in time to save Tim and his coffees from being victims of the young Robin. Who used his speed to jump and land on the corner of the built-in fireplace. Before using that as a stepping stone to propel him to the second floor landing and disappearing into the hallway. Stephanie took off after him a moment later, but using the stairs. She wasn’t an animal.

Cass shook her head amused before gliding off the barstool and grabbing Barbara by her arm. She then stared at the woman until Barbara broke. A loud groan and exclamation of “Fine!” later, Barbara was making herself at home on her couch near Tim.

They listened in silence as loud shouts and crashes echoed from above. An occasional thump or curse marking someone falling or being pushed scattered within. Before a loud explosion and Damian’s cry of, “What the f*ck, Brown?!” Ended the festivities. Stephanie’s hyena-like laugh in response made the others a bit concerned.

“So…… Tim. How’s YJ?” Barbara shifted. She knew that something had happened but for the sake of her sanity and the holiday, it could wait.

“We’re good. Cassie got…….. kidnapped, I guess, about a week ago now. But otherwise its business as usual. We’re all going to watch a movie and exchange gifts after I leave here.” Tim explained. Drawing Duke’s questioning gaze.

“Two questions. How does one kidnap an Amazon and how do you not know if it's a kidnapping or not?”

“Well…… Apparently Cassie got blown up and broke a leg. Which meant she wasn’t exactly going anywhere.”

“Hold up! Is she ok besides that?! You can’t just be so blase about your teammates Tim!”

“She’s fine!” Tim dismissed with a wave as Benard snickered next to him. “Anyway. After getting blown up, she realized she was stuck in Markovia without backup.”

“Wait. You didn’t go after her?” Barbara interjected.

“Bruce and international politics.” Tim answered with a scowl and Barbara nodded in understanding. No way in hell Bruce or Tim would risk war with a country for one person. At least not visibly.

“Continuing on, one of the other soldiers decided to carry her out. Literally dumping her in Artemis’s arms. The Amazon not Crock.” Tim finished.

“That’s called a rescue, Tim.” Duke started slowly. Like he was talking to a small child. Benard breaking out in laughter next to his boyfriend as Barbara looked on amused at the affronted expression on Tim’s face.

“I know what a rescue is, Duke. But I don’t think this qualifies. The soldier wasn’t exactly pleased by Cassie’s assistance. She was pretty sure he’d rather have left her behind, but didn’t have the stomach for it.”

“Then it's a reluctant rescue. Give the man his thank you gift and be done with it.” Duke observed. He may not like that the soldier didn’t actually want to help, but he still believed that those that went out of their way for others deserved to be recognized. Whoever this soldier was had done exactly that.

“I would but……… Cassie has been unusually tight lipped about him. I’ve been probing her every couple of days to see if I can pry out anything useful. She keeps saying that he would be happiest if we never bothered him again. Which is strange as he apparently wasn’t a part of the Corto Maltese incident. I’ve been planning to look on my own without her after the holidays.”

“Tim……. Why was your team near soldiers to begin with?” Barbara asked. She knew that Tim’s team could overlap with US operations abroad, but they had worked extensively to minimize it over the past two months. Not wanting to cause anymore issues with the US government.

“Ummmm….”

“Tim!”

“Fine! Bruce found the elements again. We thought that if we could get to them without the US or anyone knowing we could hide them away. It was the best solution at the time. No muss, no fuss.” Tim defended.

“Let me guess, the soldier was there and took the elements before your team could.” Barbara deadpanned. Already connecting the dots from the prior month’s defunding and Tim’s encounter.

“They must have seen us or something. Because they were only a few minutes ahead of us. But the amount of chaos in their wake…….. Let’s just say they were extremely quick and……….efficient.” Tim scowled.

“Tim, your definition of efficiency is very different from everyone else’s. What are we talking about here?” Duke interjected.

“Well…….. The Terror Twins are now just the Terror Twin.” Tim winced.

“What the f*ck, Tim!” Duke exclaimed.

“I know! But it was like walking through one of DeathStroke’s missions. Every soldier was dropped precisely and the twins looked like someone decided to run them over with a truck. Tuppence only survived because we were there.” Tim explained.

He then took in the room around him. Benard was listening attentively and probably working on some sort of conspiracy theory already. Duke looked a bit spooked. He’d never fought DeathStroke, but Dick’s stories and Jason’s respect for the assassin painted a grim picture. Barbara looked calculative and Tim already knew he had a partner for intel gathering. Cass was quietly sliding the last batch of cookies into the oven. Seemingly oblivious to their little conversation.

“Tim….. as your adopted brother, I think you should take Cassie’s advice and f*ck off. I’m sure we’re all going to be hearing about your adventure soon. Probably in the form of a legal notice or more reprisals. It would be best to just take the lump and move on.” Duke all but pleaded.

“I know Duke. But its just not our nature. Plus, Bruce is probably going to look into it anyway and this way we can try to stop him if something happens” Tim grinned. Barbara joining him with Benard pulling up the rear.

“We’re all going to die,” Duke said with acceptance beyond his years.

“Probably painfully!” Steph’s cheerful voice called as she re-entered the room. Seemingly not any worse for wear.

Duke turned to the blonde, who was sporting another wide grin that indicated she was very pleased with herself. Which only served to unnerve Duke even more.

“We really need therapy.” Duke deadpanned. Simultaneously drawing cries of, “See!” from Benard and “Boring.” from Cass.

“In more important news, where the hell is Dick with that ham, Babs? I’ll starve before I join the Demon Brat’s crusade.” Steph asked as she flopped over the back of the couch. Looking up at her mentor as her legs swayed like a child. Barbara just raised an eyebrow while trying to figure out exactly what the Blonde had done.

“He should be back in a few minutes. He texted me before you started messing with my cookies earlier.” Barbara answered. The blonde nodded along as she glared toward the stairs. Eyes alighting in amusem*nt as they heard the stomping of feet making their way down. Damian rounded the final flight and stood before an open window. Which caused him to sparkle, as the glitter he had failed to clean off reflected the sun’s rays.

“How you doing over there, Edward?” Benard giggled out. Which had Damian’s ire snapping to him. A sneer on his lips.

“I guess your conspiracy of the bats being vampires is true, babe.” Tim smirked.

“Does that make the Arrows werewolves?”

But before that conversation could gain legs, the apartment door swung open. Dick nearly falling in as he worked to cross a series of boxes that seemed to litter the floor outside the penthouse.

“Hey guys! Did we order anything?” He said as he placed the ham on the counter before returning to the door. Dick flipped one of the nametags and working to contain his scowl. It’s Christmas and he wasn’t going to let this ruin his day. Tim had approached his side as he stood there glaring at the tag.

“Who are they from?” Tim prompted. Already knowing the answer but wanting to hope for something else. Like every Christmas for the past three years.

“Bruce.” Dick tonelessly responded. As Steph’s head poked out from between them.

“Oooooh, firewood! Let’s keep the good sh*t and burn the rest on his front lawn.” Which really had Tim considering Duke’s observation of this family needing therapy. But had pulled Dick from his funk with a laugh.

“No Steph, we have to be more mature than that.”

“Well…….. you do. Me and Cass are still very young.” Steph rebuked while flipping her hair over her shoulder and Cass nodding vigorously in the background. Dick, ever dramatic, placed a hand on his chest and looked at her with shocked offense.

“I’m still under thirty!”

“Hummm, and you look like that? You poor thing, already going gray” Steph continued. Cass once again nodded in the background but looking at Dick with a sympathetic expression. Which drew a squawk of indignation from Dick and full blown laughter from Babs, Duke, and Benard.

“I am not going gray! Tell them Dami, I’m still young!” Dick called to Damian. Who had been observing silently and with a severe expression on his face. Before responding in all seriousness.

“It's ok, Grayson. I’m assured Barbara will find someone else once you pass in a few years. In the meantime we’ll get you fitted for a walker and chair lift.”

Which left Dick gaping at him like a fish, Steph rolling on the floor in laughter, Barbara laughing just as hard on the couch with Duke and Benard, and Cass trying and failing to not out right laugh at him. Dick then finally turned to Tim, who was looking at Damian quizzically.

“Anything else then Tim?”

Tim just looked him up and down. Expression calculating and assessing.

“I think we should start with a cane.”

Which caused the rest of the room to continue to laugh at Dick.

“You all suck!”

xxxxxxxxxx

“Here, Habibi. These are for you and your betrothed.” Talia said as she handed Jason and Rose identical black boxes with a red ribbon.

So far most of the gifts had been presents for the baby. Jason’s personal favorite being a Red Arrow onesie and Rose’s a stuffed gray bunny. That wasn’t to say they didn’t get anything from the others in the room. Jason had gotten a series of throwing knives from Artemis and some books Kori thought he might like. Rose had gotten a bunch of maternity clothes from Kori. Which was how she learned Kori really had an eye for fashion. From Artemis, Rose got an Amazonian dagger. Which was a mix of onyx black and silver. When prompted, the Amazon explained that it was for self defense with a shrug. Which was fair in both Jason and Rose’s books.

Jason shifted the box as eyed it. Trying to place what it could be. The boxes themselves were approximately forty inches long. With Rose’s being slightly shorter. They were also slightly heavy. At least heavier than Jason would have expected. Setting these thoughts aside he undid the ribbon and opened the lid. Revealing an onyx black scabbard containing the black hilt of a katana. Rose found a similar sword in hers.

Jason looked up at Talia, who seemed extremely proud of herself.

“Test it out.” Talia prompted.

Which had Jason rising and making his way to the space between the family room and kitchen. He pulled the sword from the box and slowly withdrew it from its home. The blade extending quietly. Eventually being freed from its housing and on display for all to see.

It was solid black. Glossy but not reflective and approximately thirty two inches long from point to the start of the hilt. Japanese letters stamped into the sides near the start of the hilt. Reading “Fall down seven times, stand up eight.” Jason spun the blade, feeling its weight and balance. Both registering as perfect.

“There’s a switch near the handguard, flip it.” Talia requested. Eye’s alight as she watched Jason practice with the blade. Rose was completely enraptured by it as well.

Jason quickly found the switch in question and pressed. The blade released a slight hum before the edges of the blade erupted in a bright red. Much like his suit. The Japanese characters also blared to life as he swiped and jabbed. A trail of red following the blade like an after image. Jason paused his testing as he looked at Talia. Question painted plainly on his face.

“The swords are a mix of depleted and volatile promethium. In its standard mode, it can cut almost anything. It will not bend, rust, or dull. But when you activate the switch, energy will flow from a micro battery in the hilt. This super charges the blade’s mixed in volatile promethium and ensures it can cut anything. When deactivated, the sword returns to its normal state, but the energy will be continuously stored until its next activation.” Talia explained.

“T……. this is too much.” Jason stammered. Blown away at the craftsmanship and power he now wielded. It was perfect for his job and he didn’t even need to dip into the research projects he’d been given. Rose’s thoughts followed the same pathway and ultimately came up as slightly jealous of her fiance. But the look on his face, very much a kid on Christmas, wiped that away.

“You and I both know that you’ll use it well.” Talia finished.

Jason turned and stared at the blade. It was literal perfection.

“Gods! I hope he stares at you that way, Rose.” Artemis interrupted. Taking a sip of wine while pulling Jason back to the present.

“Hey!” Jason responded while Rose giggled. He then shot the Amazon a dirty look as he made his way to Talia. Wrapping her in a tight hug.

“Thanks mom.”

“Always, Habibi.”

Rose gave her hug a moment after, before everyone settled back on the couch.

“Alright, final gift.” Jason said as he pulled an envelope from the end table next to him. Which was swiftly passed to Rose. Who eyed it before tearing it open. A series of tickets falling to the floor in front of her.

“Jay?”

“I figured with our upcoming wedding and everything else. We needed a honeymoon to remember. So I booked a few things………. We can go whenever you want to, but I figured we start in Cancun. A private villa overlooking a private beach and yacht. Then we could travel around Europe. Maybe start in Paris and then make our way around to Italy. Finally, I thought you might like a cruise or something like that.” Jason explained while rubbing the back of his head.

Rose just looked at him awestruck. “Jay, what do you mean, whenever we want?”

“I may have bought the villa in Cancun…….. and I know a few private pilots and jets that owe me a few favors. Finally, I have a few safehouses in Europe that I never told anyone about. I sold them three years ago and used the money to upgrade to better places. So we’d be staying in essentially safe houses, but they should be really nice compared to everything else I used to have.”

Kori had to interrupt at this point, “Did you buy a cruise ship too?!”

“No, I figured we could book that later. Once we have a more solid plan. The baby will be here in March or April so I thought we could postpone till we get everything settled and then go off. But I still wanted you to know it was there, Rose.” Jason finished.

Rose took a second to compose herself. Before wrapping Jason in a tight hug and whispering “Thank you” over and over again. The other three women in the room watched on fondly.

Before a call interrupted the mood. Slade’s name appearing on Rose’s phone. Who reached out and accepted the call before transferring it to the main TV screen.

“Merry Christmas Rose, Kid, everyone else.” Slade greeted from a nice office. He was currently overseeing the final operations of Nemesis for the year and thus wouldn’t see the family till January at the earliest. But Jason could care less about that now.

“Mr. Wilson.” Both Talia and Artemis greeted back. While Kori gave a polite wave.

“Hi Dad. Merry Christmas to you as well. I hope work isn’t too bad at the moment.” Rose greeted. Working through the remains of her happy tears.

“Its going well. I take it Christmas is wrapping up at the moment over there?” Slade asked innocently while a grin started to grow. Which had Jason subtly move toward the phone and end button.

“We just wrapped up.” Rose responded slightly confused. Her dad didn’t smile like that unless he had, one killed someone, two completed a mission, or three had a way to ruin someone’s day. Also Jason, for some reason, was trying to take her phone.

“Oh good! Then I’m calling at the perfect time. I trust that we are secure as I have some……… news.” Slade said like the evil bastard he was. Jason now far less subtly reaching across Rose for the phone. Which Talia had pulled away from him, when Rose gave him a disapproving look.

“They’ll probably or already do know. So I’d say we’re secure.” Rose answered. Still glaring at Jason, who was now glaring at the TV. Trying to decide if he could explain away throwing a lamp at it.

“Slade……” Jason warned.

“Perfect! I just wanted you to know your fiance jumped out of a C-17 Globemaster……. Without a parachute on his last mission. Merry Christmas!” Slade said, dropping the bomb. Before ending the call in a blink.

Jason blew a breath out his nose before eyeing everyone else in the room. Artemis looked vaguely impressed. Which…….. ok. Kori was very obviously disappointed. While Talia was…….. Talia. Rose was cycling back and forth between anger and worry.

“Rose?” Jason questioned, before the room erupted.

“Again!?” Kori squealed

“Gods you’re out of your mind.” Artemis proclaimed before taking a sip of wine again.

“Habibi.” Talia said. And yep……… that was disappointment.

“What the f*ck is wrong with you?! I could kill you Jason!” Rose exclaimed. Both fear and anger laced her voice.

Jason just stayed silent. Knowing that any defense probably wouldn’t be appreciated.

“Well! What do you have to say for yourself?!” Rose asked.

Jason already saw the trap. But………… she’s his fiancee and she’s the one asking. So Jason started digging,

“Let me start by saying I’m sorry and it won’t happen again.”

Kori just tilted her head at him. Already knowing that was a giant lie.

“But, I saw them jump and had to go after them. So……….. I kinda reacted and well…… I’m not dead.” Jason tried.

“Despite your best effort.” Talia added on. Which really wasn’t helping. He had prepared for Rose to know. But Talia was a whole different ball game. She was extremely proud of her sons and held them to high standards. Which Jason usually measured up to, but…….. a suicidal jump out of a plane probably knocked him down a few points.

“Did you even think about me? About us?” Rose asked as she stood.

“No….. it was too quick. I was already engaged and then YJ was there.”

Which now pulled Artemis’s attention back in.

“So when they jumped, I followed. It was nothing but combat reflexes and…… drive. But I promise I love you and won’t let it happen again without trying everything else” Jason said as he cupped Rose’s face.

Rose looked at him hard. Boring a hole to his soul, before wrapping him in a tight hug.

“I’m still mad.” She mumbled.

“I know.”

“Do it again and I’ll have April help me bury you under the house.”

“That’s my girl.”

Chapter 27: Welcome to Washington!

Chapter Text

March 11th, Washington DC.

David made his way up to the metal detectors and security guards again. Placing his bag, shoes, and belt in the x-ray machine for the millionth time. While flipping his US Department of Treasury badge to the guard. Who gave him a cursory glance before waving him through the metal detector.

David had been with the Department of Treasury for ten years now. Working his way up from a lowly intern position to his new position as a Manager One. A promotion that allowed for his new corner office in the US Department of Treasury Annex. Which oversaw the North Lawn of the White House. A truly spectacular view for his new role.

He passed through the detector without any sort of alert sounding. Only to be waved to the side and re-examined with a hand-held wand. Which he passed through with no issue. From there the stoic guard waved him toward his bag and apparel that had recently emerged from the x-ray machine.

He grabbed his gear and quickly put his shoes back on. Truthfully he was in no rush. It was Monday so most folks would still be tired from the weekend and pretty relaxed when it came to actually working. He didn’t even have any meetings today. A godsend in the world of finance. He then stood and made his way towards the elevators. Passing by other employees running here and there with their own accounts. He entered the elevator and hit floor five. Everyone around him remained silent due to either being not awake yet or having a case of the Mondays. Both in some cases.

A few minutes and floors later, David emerged on his floor.Giving it a cursory glance as his team moved into their cubicles to start their days and work load. He turned and made his way towards his office. Only pausing to make a coffee and greet the new intern. Something he always enjoyed doing. He entered his office and dropped his bag onto the small blue sofa that sat against the wall. An addition he was very grateful for.

He powered up his computer and peered out the window. It appeared it was going to be a nice day. The sun shining high in the sky and people bustling around on the North Lawn. Most likely ground keepers starting their maintenance and cleaning for the day. A little further away, he could make out the traffic of cars driving up and down 17th St. He was pulled from his view by a message alert on his phone. The number being registered as “Unknown” and message reading,

“The Brother Demands Blood”

Instantly, David’s demeanor changed. His body coiled tightly as his eyes began to search the room. Looking for any sort of surveillance or camera. It wouldn’t be the first time one of his brothers or sisters were caught through the CIA’s efforts and tracing.

He’d been with the church since he was in college. The group acting like an underground fraternity or sorority. Just with a lot more money and fewer rules. Being a new freshman from the rural counties of Georgia, David was instantly enchanted by the bonds of brotherhood and friendship they offered. As he had grown up with a small group of friends in his small isolated town, which were now scattered to the wind.

He never got the chance to reply as a second message came through. This one more direct and giving him his marching orders. “We are the shepherds of blood and his will. You shall rain the holiest of fire and brimstone on those that stand against us. Await the prophet and be given the tools of your trade. Be swift and concise Brother. We preach at 10:00am.”

At this juncture, David peered at his clock on the computer. Its glowing letters reading 9:15. He then stood and started to pace. He had known this moment was possible, but always doubted it could come to be. Hell, he didn’t even have his ceremonial armor or mask. Both of which were stored in a hidden compartment under his bed. Without them he felt naked. A mission such as this should be considered a momentous occasion. Finally! They were going to seize what they rightfully deserved. A country. But not just any third world country they found themselves growing in. Rather, a nation. Built to spread their cries and worship. A nation that preceded all others.

Loudly, a knock on the door sent David skyward. Not expecting a visitor despite his new mission. He calmed himself and opened his office door to a group of three men. All wearing black janitor jumpsuits and carting around large trash barrels.

“For the Brother.” The lead janitor asked. His dark blue eyes boring a hole into David as he waited for the counter phrase.

“For Blood” David answered swiftly. Receiving a polite nod before the group moved their way past him.Pulling the trash barrels behind them. David waited for all three to enter before casting his gaze upon the floor once more. It seemed he wasn’t the only follower to have received the call. Small groups of determined looking workers sped walked up and down the corridors. All glancing about and tense as they fulfilled their missions. David broke his gaze from the floor and closed the door with a click.

When he turned, he found all three men already hard at work. A metal tripod base being set before the window by one man. As his partner pulled a large nail gun from the barrels and lined up the first of his shots through the tripod’s holes and into the floor. Which was followed by a small puff of air and the sound of a nail embedding itself into the floor. Meanwhile, the third man was hard at work on David’s desk. His computer and other nicknacks being brushed aside as he seemed to be building some sort of block of metal.

Before David could inquire as to what they were doing. Another knock interrupted them. All four men turned to the door at once. Slowly, David approached and pulled it open. Being met by the sight of more followers. But this time there were no code phrases or counter phrases. Merely a quick viewing of the room's occupants before six bundles were thrust into David’s surprised hands. The follower then turned and sped off. Another barrel being pulled along behind her. Her partners, however, pushed by him. Quickly making themselves at home and starting to pull long strands of what appeared to be metal brass from their barrels.

David closed the door once more.and set the bundles on the sofa next to him. He started to separate them out before noticing his name on one of the bundles. HIs curiosity overtaking him, he opened his package and was met by the sight of a ceremonial golden mask with a red hood. Its visage styled in the shape of a demon with sharp teeth and protruding horns. Under the mask was a golden chest piece and vambraces. Both military rated and strong. Finally, his traditional black and gold tunic, pants, and greaves would finish marking him a child of blood.

David straightened. His sense of purpose and fulfillment overwhelming him. Today was to be their day! Today was to be the start of their new empire! Led by the church and its powerful leader!

All Hail Brother Blood!

xxxxxxxxxx

The White House

Jessica followed along behind the tour group, being led by a bubbly tour guide that was splitting her attention between the school children and navigating the halls. Jessica’s seventh grade class had won some sort of national fitness contest during the fall semester. As such, they were given the rare opportunity to tour the White House and be presented with an award on behalf of President Jackson.

So here she was, walking besides her best friend, Morgan, as they stared at momentous artwork and furniture. To be honest she was a bit bored. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum was far more interesting, with its multitude of retired aircraft and shuttle pieces. The White House just couldn’t compete in Jessica’s mind. She mindlessly brushed a lock of blonde hair back behind her ear as the group turned another corner and began their journey to the State Dining room.

“Now the State Dining Room used to be the private office of President Tomas Jefferson, but that changed under President James Madison, when he and his wife decided to change the space into a guest dining area.” The tour guide rambled on. Spouting tiny facts and figures about every room and chair it seemed.

Jessica could only roll her eyes at the woman. She had long since forgotten the brunette's name, but remembered it started with a “P”.

“Ms. Penny?! Does the first family take their meal in the State Dining Room?” Morgan called out next to her. Her fellow blonde being far more enraptured by the sense of history and prominence. Morgan had always seemed to enjoy history class, always asking for more facts and stories from their teacher. Jessica was the opposite. Preferring math and science over stories of long dead men and women.

“No, the dining room serves as a banquet hall these days. Usually used for state visits from other countries and diplomates. Now, what can you tell me about the man in the painting over the fireplace?” Penny asked her tour group as they entered the room. Hand waving to the large painting of Lincoln which overlooked the table.

Instantly multiple hands shot up from the group. The ten to twelve year olds eager to share and show-off for their teacher. But before Penny could call on someone, a loud crescendo of pops echoed down the hall.

“Ms. Penny, is there some sort of restoration or construction going on?” The kid’s teacher asked. Face contoured in befuddlement similar to her own.

“Not that I’m aware of. It's probably one of the staffers dropping something. It wouldn’t be the first time something broke because of them.” Penny deflected as she walked around the mass of kids. Directing most of them further into the room as she approached the doorway. The mass of pops began to increase in both number and volume as Penny rounded the corner back into the hall. The children behind her became more and more frightened.

The hall was as empty as when she had passed through it earlier, and now the pops were lessening. Probably moving away from her tour group. She turned back to the children and their teacher. A bright, but forced, smile coloring her face. She was sure it was some sort of accident with the office staff or a kitchen staffer pushing a cart of silverware. There was no need to freak out the kids.

“I’m sorry about that, the kitchen staff love to deafen everyone as they cart silverware around.” She started. Turning her full attention back to the group. “Now, as I was saying, who can tell me about……..” Penny would never finish her question.

Instead, all Jessica and her tour group saw was a bright, red puff of air ejecting itself from the right side of Penny’s head. Before the woman slumped over and collapsed to the floor. A bright smile still plastered on her face, as a red puddle began to expand around her.

The children were silent for all of one second. As their minds worked to process what they had just seen. Their teacher beside them, gaping like a fish out of water. Then, as if practiced, a loud series of screams filled the air. All of them frantic and looking toward their teacher, Mr. Elliot, for what they should do. But he was too busy looking for someone to tell him what to do. His eyes bouncing here and there as he searched for some sort of secret service agent or staffer.

Luckily, he didn’t have to look far. As a man dressed in a business suit and tie bounded into the room. Face dead serious and scanning them for threats.

“Are you ok?! How many children are with you?” The agent asked. Both seemingly out of breath and ready to keep moving.

Mr. Elliot mentally shook out of his stupor. His mind catching up to him and now knowing he had to get the kids out of here.

“I have twenty with me here. But there were other groups with us today. We split off into groups so everyone could tour.” He explained. The agent nodding with the new information as his head darted between the door, kids, and Mr. Elliot. The agent then continued his labored breathing. Body readied for a fight and the excitement of today.

“Good……… that's good.” The agent sighed out.

Which immediately threw Mr. Elliot for a loop. Jessica watched as his face contorted in confusion and eyes widened. She was sure she wasn’t the only one to see Mr. Elliot’s head snap back. Another large, red puff of air ejecting from the back of his head as a small hole appeared in the center of his forehead. Within a second, Mr. Elliot was sprawled on the ground. Another pool of red beginning to blossom under him, as his class screamed in terror. Only to be quelled by another three shots ringing out. But this time into the roof above them.

“Be quiet!” the agent screamed. While lifting his left cufflink to his lips. “I’ve secured hostage group three.” He spoke calmly now. As dress suited men and women flowed in behind him. All sporting the same golden demonic mask. Not a single one of them paid the dead body on the ground any mind. Instead surrounding the children and looking to the agent for orders. He paused as the final member of their squad entered and passed him his mask. Which he quickly donned. Now joining the faceless group of followers surrounding the children.

“For Blood!” He called.

“For the Brother!” Was the echoing response.

xxxxxxxxxx

The Oval Office

President Jackson had just finished reading through his morning brief. As always it was long and filled with a lot of potential threats and events. Most of which were still developing but worth keeping an eye on.

Since the United States had come into possession of the Elements, other nations seemed to be mobilizing more than usual. Which would be a major concern, if not for the fact that the nations in question were heavily monitored. Both Quarc and surprisingly Markovia being chief among those that made their way to his desk.

That wasn’t even to speak about the new underground sanctions imposed on the JLA after their last stunt. Both he and Waller agreed that public action would draw far more attention than what was needed right now. So instead, they quietly moved even more funding away from the JLA, while at the same time directing the IRS and SEC to impose tougher audits on the organization’s top supporters. With special attention being directed to R&D and technology line items. The thought being that there may be some fictitious activity that was going unnoticed by the company, as it was diverted to the JLA and its tech. In addition, for some reason, the federal money that was once freely handed out to these companies was being pulled back. Excuses of reducing the nation’s debt and on-coming recession being the cause.

President Jackson grinned as he stood from his chair, grabbing his morning coffee, and looked out at the South Lawn. He watched as the groundskeepers worked their magic on the grass, trees, and shrubs that surrounded the White House. It wasn’t that he was gloating over his actions against the JLA. He wasn’t Luthor. Rather, it was more a sense of accomplishment. He may not be outwitting his opponent, but it was fun to hit them where it hurt. Plus, it would hopefully establish a precedent for any of his successors to be more autonomous and work to find additional measures against such a powerful……..ally.

President Jackson idly took a sip from his cup, when a splash of red drew his attention. His eyes wandered over to a collection of shrubs that was once under the careful eye and trimmers of a groundskeeper. Now the groundskeeper was nowhere to be seen. President Jackson dismissed this until he saw a collection of his secret service agents start making their way towards the shrubs. Pistols and, in the case of one tactically dressed agent, rifle drawn. When they arrived at the bush, they all immediately stiffened. One agent immediately lifted his cufflink and started shouting into the microphone within. But then, the sound of a small bang echoed through the air. The shouting agent’s head evaporated in a mess of blood and brain.

Then, to President Jackson’s confusion, the tactically dressed agent raised his rifle at his fellow agents. Gunning them down with rapid fire shots to their chests. He then turned and tapped a finger to his right ear. A bright red cloth on the agent’s left bicep became visible to President Jackson. Before the man dropped his arm again. He then turned like he was pulling something from the bag attached at his hip, and swiftly donned what looked to be some sort of golden mask.

President Jackson didn’t have any more time to wonder however. As the air exploded into a frenzy of thunderous booms and puffs of dirt sprouted across the lawn. Large fifty caliber bullets finding new homes in the walls, ground, and agents of the White House.

The President dropped to his stomach below the windows above him. The Secret Service training he received his first week in office took over as he low crawled toward the door at that side of the room. Before he was even half-way there, the door burst open. An agent scanning the room for the President before finding him crawling along toward him. Quickly, the agent ran towards him. Lifting him from the floor and ushering him out of the room. His body wrapped around President Jackson to prevent him being hit.

The two of them all but sprinted down the hall. Other agents formed up around them in an escort as they pushed toward the situation room. The group turned a corner and was met with an ongoing firefight between the agents and gold mask wearing assailants. Instantly, two of Jackson’s escorting agents joined the fight. Laying down additional fire as Jackson was pushed forward and away from danger.

The group continued their journey, but now on another path. Brushing aside staffers as they barreled through the offices and toward a large bookcase. Two more agents rushed forward. The men entering a code on a hidden panel and prying the secret door open. They then stood vigil as the President passed. Before following behind and closing the secret entrance behind them.

Stairs were quickly cleared and a large steel door slid open. Announcing the arrival of the President and his entourage. The group stopped before the large oak table and surrounding computer banks. All eyes turned to them as the door slid close and locked with a series of dull thumps and clicks. President Jackson shook free of the grip of the agent. Sending a silent nod in thanks as he took over the situation.

“What do we have?” He asked.

“Sir! We’re under fire from all directions externally. It appears that the enemy has entrenched themselves in the surrounding office buildings and have access to fifty cals. Further, we also have reports of rpgs, grenade launchers, and military grade equipment being used against the local police and security forces.” One of the men dressed in military fatigues answered from his position at a computer bank.

“How about internally? How the hell did they get in?!” President Jackson inquired the room.

“Sir! We have reports of Secret Service agents turning on one another, before gunning down any opposition in their way. Further, we had some scattered calls in the East Wing of a sword wielding woman. We haven’t been able to ascertain more as any agents that met this force went dark a moment after. We’re currently showing fifty remaining agents, but that number is dropping by the minute.” Another soldier sprouted off. Her eye’s never leaving her screen as she spoke.

President Jackson growled. The image of the White House and surrounding blocks slowly turning red as the reports came in and they lost more ground.

“Response?!” He barked.

“Sir! The 75th Ranger Regiment is fifteen minutes out, their Bradleys and APCs closely behind. We’ve also mobilized the 442nd Regimental Combat Team to assist in clearing the surrounding buildings!” A third soldier called.

“Good! Get them here and clear those bastards out! What’s the status of the Zeta room?!” President Jackson demanded.

“Locked down, Sir! We have five Secret Service Agents holding the room and by all indications it seems to be undetected.” Someone answered.

“Perfect! Get me Waller!” The President called, before one of the staffers called out to him.

“Sir! I have a communication from the JLA! They’re asking permission to intercede!”

“So now they ask permission.” President Jackson wryly thought. “Absolutely not!” He answered. Which seemed to stun a few of the folks manning the computers terminals. “The center of American power has just been hit by an organized and motivated threat! We will not cower behind those that claim to usher the future just because they contain immense power! This land was won by normal everyday Americans, for Americans, and dammit! We’ll make it through this too! And once we do…… we’ll track down the sons of bitches that dared to touch our crown……..and send them off to hell! Now get me Waller!”

President Jackson then calmed from his speech. Eyes tracking across the room as men and women straightened and returned to their work. More focused and determined than before. He then looked up at the screen as Waller’s scowl appeared. It seemed she was more pissed than he was. Which foreboded hard times ahead for anyone dumb enough to sign off on this mission.

“Waller! I want to activate Nemesis! Send them straight through the zeta tube and right into the throat of the threat!” President Jackson asked/demanded.

Waller’s face shifted slightly. Probably contemplating the potential consequences and reactions abroad.

“Mr. President. The last time one of my…….initiatives went public, heads rolled across Washington. The business with the JLA last year served its purposes, but are we certain we can weather the inquiries and public attention. There’s a good chance this will become a spectacle.” Waller explained. She knew that Nemesis would eventually have to be revealed, but it probably could operate much like the Seals or Delta Force. Highly classified and buried under pitch black ink.

“That’s exactly what I want, Waller. For the past few years, other nations have been capitalizing on the belief that we’ve gone soft. The JLA and its increased activity in the states lending to that idea. It's time to show them how wrong they are.” President Jackson proclaimed.

“Alright, Mr. President. I’ll activate any stand-by agents and send them through. Any specifics for their operations?” Waller asked as she motioned to the room behind her. Which seemed to dramatically surge in activity to carry out their new orders.

“I want Agent Knight-01 in charge. Full autonomy and whatever he needs. No combat restrictions.”

Chapter 28: Preparations

Chapter Text

Colorado 8:05 am

Jason stepped back into the foyer as Bear darted past. The puppy eagerly awaiting his breakfast and a nice nap on the couch after. In the months since Christmas, Bear had grown considerably. Now a whopping sixty pounds, and still every bit a lap dog. Further, Jason had worked his way back into Rose’s good graces. Truthfully, he only had to last about a week before Rose relented and allowed him back in their bed. But then her late night cravings became his new punishment. Requests for pickles, certain ice cream, and chocolate being the most common. The amount of times he had to drive them into town for a late night snack was bordering on insane. It also didn’t matter how much he stocked up as she would always request some strange flavor or food that Jason would have to hunt down. During these little adventures, she would also be a bit crabby until he found her requested item. The amount of times he had to save some nice employee from the crabby, pregnant, assassin was……….honestly too much.

But, for all her requests and late night travels, Jason just couldn’t get over how much he loved her. The way she’d light up after taking the first bite of her snack always made him smile. No matter how late it was. Plus, it often meant he got his own snack. Which often reminded him of his late night ice cream visits as Robin. Something he did by himself, or with Dick, on slow nights back in Gotham.

Jason walked over to the kitchen and started his routine of filling Bear’s bowl. He pulled the tupperware container that held Bear’s kibble and dropped two large scoops into his bowl. He then pried open the refrigerator and withdrew some pre-cut carrots. For some reason, the dog loved carrots to the confusion of both Jason and Rose. But both decided to take their victories where they could. After making this discovery and from then onward, Bear got carrots for breakfast and a hot meal for dinner. Jason pulled a clump from the bag and dropped them on top of the kibble. Before he grabbed a spoon and stirred the mixture. Ensuring that the carrots were properly mixed in. He then set the bowl down in Bear’s designated spot, as the dog watched on.

Having completed his morning chores. Jason grabbed the TV remote from the kitchen table and powered on the TV in the kitchen. A morning talk show already in full swing greeted him. The presenters talking about some sort of film. Jason yawned and stretched as he made his way back into the main kitchen. He opened the refrigerator again, searching through his ingredients and trying to think up some sort of meal for him and Rose. He knew he had at least another hour or so until his fiancee woke up. Rose was sleeping more these days as they approached her due date, which was totally not stressful at all. Jason totally didn’t have Slade’s, Talia’s, Kori’s, April’s, and Artemis’s numbers on speed dial. Nor did he have three go bags prepped. He was relaxed……….and not freaking out at all, Talia!

Jason forced these thoughts from his mind as he pulled the milk and butter from the refrigerator. He decided that they were going to have brown sugar oatmeal for breakfast with a small breakfast sandwich. See english muffin with banana and peanut butter.

Suddenly, the TV announced, “Breaking news from our nation’s capital! We go live to our sister station, GCN and Vicki Vale on the ground!” To which Jason ignored at first. It was probably some sort of new bill, or the government shutting down……again. But then the distinct pops of gunfire erupted from the TV’s speakers. Jason shot up and locked his eyes on the screen. The image then switched to a smartly dressed Vicki Vale standing on some random street. The surrounding area looked like a warzone. Running police officers and fleeing civilians.

“This is Vicki Vale reporting from the ground! Approximately ten minutes ago, our nation’s capital became under siege! Local authorities are working to regain control but……”

Vicki was interrupted by a loud call of “RPG!” echoing behind her. Before a police cruiser detonated in a shower of shrapnel and flames. Multiple officers being caught in the blast, and their partners rushing in to pull who they could to safety. VIcki ducked down, the microphone being tightly held in her hand.

“The situation is currently developing as the police seem to be overunned at every turn! We’ve heard reports of the military being mobilized but we haven’t seen any sort of response yet!”

Behind her, the officers crouched behind whatever cars and cover they could find. Puffs of dust and cement erupted around them as the attackers shifted their fire.One SWAT officer leaned over his cover. Trying to provide covering fire for his comrades as they retreated. His efforts were rewarded by his head and upper torso disappearing in a shower of blood. As a sniper with an anti-material rifle took notice.

A loud alarm shocked Jason out of stupor. His phone was vibrating and flashing red. He quickly turned off the TV and hid the remote under the sink. Pulling the phone to his ear, he started his quick journey to the OPs center.

“Knight-01, reporting”

Waller’s calm and collected voice sprang from the earpiece. “Knight-01. I assume you’ve seen the news?”

“Yes, I’m currently starting to equip my gear. What’s the play?”

“I’ve activated three fireteams not including Silver. The President has designated you as in control of the situation on the ground. You’ll assemble with your team in the zeta room of the White House. Your objectives are to eliminate any attackers and protect the President.”

Jason paused as he pulled out his under suit and set down the phone. Switching to speaker, “What intel and what fireteams do I have on the ground? Further, are we aware of any hostages?”

“The logs indicate there was a middle school tour going through the house this morning. There have been no reports of any children leaving the White House. We’re currently prioritizing getting the Rangers on-site. They will breach and clear the surrounding buildings, while setting a perimeter around the White House. Their orders are to hold fire and position until you say otherwise. As for the intel, We’ve confirmed the servers on-site are locked down and all codes scrambled. You have fireteams Gold, Cobalt, and Maroon currently assembling. Agent Wolf has also been alerted and is in-route as well.” Waller promptly answered.

“Any idea what they’re after?” Jason asked as he started to strip.

“Currently, we’re going to assume it's an assassination attempt. Until we know otherwise, the President is your top priority. Be aware, we have reports of a sword wielding woman on-site but no further confirmation than that.” Waller finished.

“Acknowledged. I’ll be on-site in fifteen mikes. Agent Knight Out.” Jason cut the call before immediately placing another. The phone rang three times before it clicked on.

“Mmmmmm…..hello?” Kori’s drowsy voice answered. It was still seven in California, so she probably wasn’t awake yet.

“Kori! I need you to come to my house as soon as possible!” Jason answered as he finished locking his greaves on and threading his belt.

“Jason! Is the baby coming?!” Kori asked. Now far more awake and obviously rushing through her closet. Probably looking for something to wear.

“No not yet, Kori. I need you to watch Rose………. Something came up and I want you and Arty to keep her company while I take care of it.” Jason answered. As he started to lay out his weapons and chest armor.

“Jason, what is going on that you need both of us?” Kori asked. Obviously perplexed at the situation.

“Later Kori! See you soon!” Jason said as he ended the call and immediately switched to Artemis. Unlike Kori, Artemis’s phone only rang once before she answered.

“Little one, is the baby coming?” the Amazon’s calm voice asked. She was probably already up and training. It wasn’t unusual for her to wake up early and get a good work-out in.

“Not yet, Red. I need you and Kori to keep Rose company today.” Jason answered.

“Why?” The terse response answered.

“Something is going on and I don’t want to stress her out. It's not good for the baby.” Jason explained as he pulled on the chest armor. Which began to conform to his undersuit as it attached itself to various ports and points.

“Little One, what….” Artemis started.

“Thanks for your help, Arty! See you soon!” Jason cut her off before ending the call.

He then turned and pulled on the vambraces. Quickly testing the arm blades a few times before nodding in satisfaction. He then reached over and started pulling his various clips and blades he needed. All of which found their various homes with clicks and clacks. For this mission, Jason decided that his normal combat load would be best……..with one addition. Jason pulled Talia’s sword and quickly locked it onto his back. He then turned back to the table again and started doing his pre-mission checks on his rifle and pistols.

It was at this point that the zeta tube powered on and both women ventured through. One looked extremely concerned and the other annoyed. But as soon as they saw his armor, their eyes widened comically.

He and Rose had told them at Christmas that they were agents for the government. Mainly gathering intel and hostage rescue. Which both accepted easily. While Talia looked on with a small smirk, having been in the true know since Jason started with Nemesis. But now……….they were going to have to do some explaining. A later issue at the moment.

“Thank you both for coming. I need you to distract Rose for the day. Do not allow her to turn on the TV!” Jason called as he cycled the rifle. Oblivious to the looks he was receiving. “Actually, take her phone too. She’ll probably leave it on the nightstand next to the bed when she wanders down for food.”

“X’hal Jason! What’s going on?! Why are you dressed as the Agent Knight?!” Kori asked. Eyes bouncing between her friend’s face and the pistols he was now testing. Wordlessly, Jason pulled a remote from the table and flipped on a screen across from them. Vicki Vale’s visage returning, but now surrounded by military men who were advancing down the street. A Bradley visible in the background firing at some unseen attackers. Both women watched on as the camera panned and the White House appeared in the background. Only to be interrupted by a hiss coming from Jason. Who had finished his pre-mission ritual and donned his helmet.

“I have to deal with that. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” He said in his distorted voice, as he walked around them to input the coordinates to the White House. “Remember, stress is bad for the baby so………..don’t do anything I wouldn't do!” Jason finished. Before he rushed through the portal, leaving the confused women to themselves.

“Gods, he’s going to put Rose in an early grave”

xxxxxxxxxx

Jason rushed out of the portal to the sight of ten other agents already assembled in the zeta room of the White House. Their black armor illuminated by the glow of the zeta tube and one agent’s holographic display, which showed a rough blueprint of the White House. It seemed the squad leaders and April had already started planning their move as Jason approached.

“How bad is it?” Jason asked.

“Right now all we know is there’s a lot of the bastards. But exact figures are a no go until we can regain control of the security network. Red Crown is working on it, but it's slow going.” Agent Simmons answered.

Agent Carl Simmons is a five-eleven, white, blonde man, who was once a decorated Navy Seal. But after his final tour in Somalia, he transferred to Nemesis. From what Jason understood, the man was the final survivor of his unit after a VIP betrayed his men on mission. Six were gunned down immediately with the final five succumbing over the course of twenty-four hours. Simmons was apparently a one man army during this firefight, with thirty confirmed kills and another twenty unconfirmed. With a combat record like that, Slade had pulled out all the stops to get the man to sign up. After all, the man was still mourning his team, but Slade was persistent. Offering better training, better gear, and most importantly purpose.

After a lengthy recruitment period, Simmons was officially on-boarded and quickly built a reputation as a staunch but good leader. Leading Gold team like a well oiled machine. But that wasn’t what set the man apart in Jason’s mind. Simmons is persistence personified. Never backing down from a good fight or mission. In combat the man would get shot and only get pissed off. Roars of rage emerging from his speakers as he returned fire or pummeled the nearest unfortunate soul. An attitude Jason could get behind.

“Further, the direct route to the West Wing is locked down. So, we’ll be taking the scenic route.” Agent Sierra finished as she gestured to the red blocks that populated the secret passages and rooms.

Agent Lucia Sierra is a five-seven, latin-american woman, who was recruited personally by Waller. From what Jason could find in her file, she was an assassin under the purview of the CIA. She had upwards of forty missions during her six years as an asset and was extremely proficient at it. Favoring quick or long range strikes, she was as close as one could get to a second Floyd Lawton with a sniper rifle. But that didn’t diminish her in a straight up fight. Preferring a k-bar and silenced pistol to most other’s rifles and SMGs.

Off mission, she reminded Jason of a more social Cass. Usually having her teammates squabble around her as she watched on. Until she’d end the discussion with a soft word. Her teammates would then usually pull her into another discussion or drag her out for drinks. Both members wanted to get the woman more acquainted with the world outside of the CIA and Nemesis again. Which provided Jason endless amusem*nt as the poor assassin learned to socialize again. Often being hit on and never realizing it, until O’Brian, Cobalt-02, would point it out. Which would always result in her looking like a baby deer caught in the headlights, as Rosa, Cobalt-03, mumbled something about being too precious for someone so lethal.

“We’ll make it work. Lorne, I want your team right behind Silver.” Jason said as he turned to the fourth and final squad leader.

Agent Marcus Lorne is a six-five, behemoth, from Scotland. If the country ever needed one man to represent their people, Agent Lorne was their man. Big and broad with red hair and beard. It also didn’t hurt that he sported the scottish accent and short temper famous among his people. A former Black Watch Captain, Lorne was well known in his unit for his red hot fury in combat. Often cursing out those that dared to engage him. Under Slade, the man’s rage was tempered and pointed. Only letting his fury take over when extreme circ*mstances demanded it. Which for some reason was more common under fireteam Maroon. The team having earned their color of choice after coming back from multiple missions covered in red.

Outside of the suit, Marcus acted like everyone’s older brother. Giving advice and joking around as they trained. It was a welcome change of pace everyone appreciated during the longer days in the summer. Marcus was also the first to make sure everyone was doing well in their social lives. Organizing impromptu bar crawls or a volleyball league that somehow was more competitive than their training matches.

Lorne gave him a silent nod as Jason turned to the rest of his strikeforce.

“We’re going to go slow and steady with camo on. We have reason to believe there are a bunch of school children here and I’m not going to allow anyone here to injure a kid. So, Silver will lead the way down the hall. Maroon and Cobalt will be next, and will be responsible for breaching and clearing the surrounding rooms. Any hostages will be directed out and toward the visitor center in the East Wing, where we started. Gold, you’re in charge of directing hostages and covering our rear.” Jason laid out as he looked around at his team. Holding eye contact with each one of them before finishing off his plan.

“Be advised, we believe there are metas in their ranks, but no confirmation has been provided. So be ready to split back into fireteams to engage individual targets. Further, we also don’t know what their goal is here, besides pissing off every general from here to California. So, until we figure that out, this is a hostage rescue and VIP protection. Clear?” Jason finished, before getting three prompt, “clears” in return.

Jason nodded once and then flicked his head toward the door that led to the East Wing. A silent command to stack up. Which all the agents did with military precision. Forming their fireteams. Jason took point with April across from him. He quickly eyed his partner and received a silent “Ready”. Nodding one final time, Jason forced open the door and turned into the hall. Camo activating as the predators moved towards their new mission.

Chapter 29: Clear!

Chapter Text

Jason covered April as she slowly turned the large lever that held the secure door in place. Its joints soundlessly slid past one another before she pressed forward and slowly emerged in a side office. Her invisible form moved to the right as Jason rushed forward. Rifle panning in search of target.

“Clear! Lorne, the door.” Jason whispered as he stacked up on the office door. Lorne quickly crossed the room. Putting his bulk against the wall, while grasping the door handle. His visage staring at Jason, until a silent nod directed him to open the door. Lorne slowly pulled the door towards him. A silent scowl of concentration as he worked to maintain absolute silence.

Jason filled the void between the door and wall. Eyes scanning the hall which led to the visitor hall. The way currently seemed clear. The attackers most likely concentrated on the second floor. Taking the height advantage away from any sort of counter action. Which offered a new problem for Jason.

He knew that they could easily push forward and secure any sort of hostages. But if they sent them back here, they ran the risk of them being recaptured. Which in turn would lead to an additional crisis as they had concentrated all the hostages in one location. Something which would inevitably cost someone their life.

“Simmons! Change of plans. I want Gold team to secure this wing. After it's secure, I want a perimeter established and held. We’ll send any hostages back towards you. Silver, Maroon, and Cobalt will proceed toward the West Wing. Sierra! Your team will be on hostage wrangling. I believe there’s only the theater between us and the Executive Residence. We’ll clear that room and then proceed to the residence. Once there, Cobalt will split off and clear the residence as Silver and Maroon will b-line it to the Oval office and Bunker.” Jason quietly spoke. Before turning back into the room and catching the nods of Gold and Cobalt’s leads.

Satisfied, Jason turned to Lorne and signaled him to open the door. Which was swiftly opened. Jason led the way down the hall. April slightly behind him on his right and Lorne picking up his right. They quickly combat walked down the hallway. Rifles never wavering as the hall met the lobby.

April turned right, while Lorne covered left. Both halls were completely empty as Jason quickly looked back. Watching as the back of Gold-03 disappeared up the stairs. He then pivoted right, leading his team further into the house.

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Simmons slowly opened the door to the second floor and immediately caught the tail end of shouted orders.

“Move the RPGs to the office and get that fifty set up! We’re going to hold until the Brother says otherwise! For the Brother!” The leader called.

“For the Blood!” His men and women echoed.

Simmons slinked into the hall, Hopkins and McCoy taking up his left and right respectively.

Quinn McCoy was probably the youngest member of Nemesis after Jason. Her service record was that of a typical Pararescue Medic. Dropping in while bullets few around her to pull some poor soul to safety. But what set her apart, and pulled Slade’s attention to her, was one of her final missions. Her chopper and crew had been hit by an RPG that detonated within the crew compartment of their Blackhawk. Most of her crew was instantly killed, and those that weren’t were killed in the crash as the chopper fell to earth.

From there, McCoy was cut-off with the rest of the Navy Seals they were sent to extract. She then proceeded to act as a combat medic to the squad. Often covering the wounded, literally, as she returned fire with her own rifle and pistol. When they were finally extracted by a Marine unit and their Chinook helicopter, she had a reported eight bullet wounds. The leader of the Seals was quoted as saying, “She’s the angriest, little blonde I’ve ever had the honor to serve beside.”

With a quote like that, Slade had tracked down the five-six blonde woman and offered her a position in Nemesis. Which she accepted without hesitation, and quickly rose to become the angriest medic in the unit. Always ranting at her teammates after making sure they were ok. Like it was their fault they got shot. Which, for some reason, was strangely comforting. It made them feel cared for.

Travis Hopkins was nicknamed “Shadow” in their little family. He’s a five-nine, Asian American hailing from England. A British SAS soldier, he was also really quiet. Often just answering with a flick of a hand or facial expression.

His journey to Nemesis was more low-key than the rest. Slade found him due to his multitude of successful missions, over one event. Combine that with his marksmanship and reputation as a cool operator, Slade knew a team player when he saw one.

“McCoy. Cover right. Hopkins, take left.” Simmons ordered. Twin green lights blinking in response on his HUD.

The team pressed forward. Small, green lasers marking the team’s first targets. As they moved, Simmons took a moment to examine their attackers.

They were dressed in a combination of red, gold, and black. A demonic mask covering their faces and golden vambraces matching their chest armor. All of which covered a black tunic and leggings that disappeared into golden greaves. A look that raised multiple questions in the soldier’s mind. It was tactically absurd. Far too bold to be camouflage, and too old looking to be considered advisable. Simmons shook those thoughts from his mind and refocused.

“Engage.” He whispered. Immediately hearing twin silent coughs as two of the demons dropped. Their masks cracked from the impact of the bullets. Simmons, himself, dropped the squad leader. Leaving a total of three bodies sprawled in the hall between the opened doors.

The team scrambled forward. Hopkins secured the left doorway. Simmons and McCoy stacking up on the right.

“Hopkins, keep that doorway secured. McCoy, breach on me.” Simmons directed. Twin green lights appearing again.

“Three……. Two…… Breach.” Simmons ordered.

He then turned the corner and sighted his first target. The shortest of the figures that just happened to be glancing toward the door. Rifle held casually in his hands. Probably having heard his team lead drop, but assuming it was some office equipment. Simmons’ bullets caught him center mass. A flicker of sparks and red erupting as the rounds carved small holes in his chest. McCoy had meanwhile dropped the furthest figure. Her rounds started at center mass before trailing upwards with the recoil. Leading to a mess of red coloring the First Lady’s office wall. As the agent’s cloak dematerialized with the rapid movements.

The assailant’s teammates capitalized on their deaths by throwing themselves bodily against the agents. McCoy was driven into the wall; her rifle being pressed against her neck. As the man attempted to crush her windpipe. Simmons had his own rifle batted out of his hands. As his attacker drew what looked like some sort of ceremonial dagger. Striking forth in an attempt to catch his side.

Simmons leapt back and felt himself impact the wall. Which the demon capitalized on again. Only this time, the dagger was forced into the wall as Simmons pivoted and pulled the demon’s left arm forward. He then lashed out with a headbutt. A satisfying crack being heard and appearing on the demon’s visage. The demon fell back, trying to rebalance himself. Only to be yanked back forward into Simmons’ rising knee. Which further cracked the mask and drew a splash of blood.

The demon then lashed out. Kicking out as he fell back and creating space. Simmons, not one to give an opponent breathing room. Stalked forth and drew his k-bar. The downed demon quickly caught his advance. Pressing his feet against Simmons’ stomach and grasping his wrists as the wrestled. Simmons fighting to land a strike.

Suddenly, three suppressed shots rang out. McCoy painting the opposite wall with blood as her bullets tore through the side of her attacker. She had managed to wiggle her right arm free and had quickly drawn her pistol. Firing from the hip and causing her attacker to back off. He slumped back but was quickly thrown to the floor by a left hook. Then McCoy finished him off with three shots to the head. Ensuring he stayed down.

Simmons used this distraction to pivot and spin. Breaking his grappler’s hold and dropping Simmons to the floor. His knife finding its way through the demon’s throat. Simmons then scrambled back up to his knees and pulled his knife free. Flicking it once before cleaning it on the downed figure’s tunic. McCoy had crossed the room during this time and pressed her rifle against the demon’s head. Before unleashing a quick three round burst. Ending whatever threat the man represented.

Simmons clambered back to his feet and retrieved his own rifle. While asking McCoy, “You still green?”

To which McCoy answered with what might have been a snort. Her tone mirthful, “I’ve had dates that did a better job of choking me.”

“Jesus, McCoy.” Simmons lightly admonished. Before a crack had the two of them rushing back into the hall. Both with rifles raised and panning for threats.

What they saw was Hopkins landing a final blow to what must have been three attackers. A spartan kick to the face of a downed demon. Which crushed the man’s skull and sent up a geyser of blood and brain. Behind Hopkins, a body was sprawled out on the ground. A black knife sticking out of its head and left leg bent unnaturally. The final body was riddled with bullets. All of which peppered its left side, before a final shot carved a new hole in its head.

“You good, Hopkins?” Simmons tentatively asked. Feeling McCoy’s assessing eyes on both him and Hopkins as the fight winded down.

Hopkins merely shrugged. Gaze quickly sweeping the dead below him.

“Clear.” Was the English accented response.

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Jason moved silently down the hall. April covering him as his team split. Cobalt stacking up on the right of the theater door, while Maroon and silver took the left.

Switching to his electric vision, the room beyond lit up with multiple figures. Most of which appeared to be seated in the theater’s seats as guards roamed up and down the small stairway. With one figure stood still, atop the final top stair. Their head swiveling back and forth, observing the hostages. To his left, up in what could only be considered the stage, four figures seemed to be deep in conversation.

“Four guards on the stage. Two are walking back and forth along the stairway, with a seventh perched as overwatch.” Jason whispered into his mic. Receiving seven green lights on his HUD in response. He then reached forward and clutched the door handle. Looking across at Sierra, who had mirrored his actions. Then, with a small nod, they began to inch open the door. Sierra covering left as Jason did right. They slowly set their sights on their targets. Jason’s the man at the top of the stairs and Sierra’s the closest figure on the stage.

“Three, two, one……. Execute.” Jason called out. His rifle bucking in his hold as his shot pierced his target’s skull. Sierra’s own shot following as they threw open the door. Jason pivoted and moved in. Giving room for his teammates to follow through and secure the room. All their cloaks dematerialized as it fought to keep up with their rapid movements.

Sierra and Rosa focused their fire on the two remaining guards on the stairs. Reducing them to a mess of red and gold shreds. April followed Jason’s sightline and sent rounds downwind at the group huddled on the stage. Dropping another guard next to Sierra’s. But Jason didn’t have time to notice. He was already sprinting forward.

The final two guards on the stage decided that they wouldn’t be able to hold them off. So to ensure that they didn’t go alone, they turned their rifles on the children.

Jason dove forward as their rifles exploded in a mess of fire and bullets. He felt the dull pings of rounds impacting, ricocheting, or flattening against his armor. He also heard the whoosh of other rounds sailing by him. By the time he had landed, the two had emptied their clips into the crowd and Jason. He rolled and came up in a crouch. Pistol held steady in his grip, only to find the two already lifeless on the floor. Lorne and April having killed them.

Jason then swung around and eyed the group. Eyes quickly jumping from one child to the next as he scanned for injuries. Most of them seemed to be staring at him with wide eyes. Some thought he was the coolest thing they had ever seen, while others were just lost in a panic. Luckily, it seemed the guard’s shots missed or only impacted Jason. A miracle in Jason’s mind.

“Clear!” Jason echoed out of his speakers. Jolting a few of the children out of their stupors. Jason received calls of “Clear!” back as the agents swept the room.

“Silver two, Maroon one, cover the hall.” Jason directed as he gestured toward the door. April and Lorne moving quickly to secure the hallway once more. Jason then turned and gestured toward Sierra ordering forward and next to him. Who quickly complied, but not without a touch of confusion based on her tilted head.

“This is Cobalt one. She’s going to take you all on a small tour to the visitor’s center. Who wants to help her by being line leaders?” Jason called out toward the children. Who stared on until a few hands began to raise tentatively.

“I do Mr. Robot.” A small girl in the front row said. Her raised hand shaky as Jason walked forward, dragging Sierra along by her left hand.

“Ok, sweetheart. Here take Cobalt’s hand.” Jason said as he moved Sierra’s hand into the girl’s grip. Who latched on with a white-knuckled grip. He then began to slowly pet the girl’s hair, trying to calm her a bit more. “It's going to be ok, sweetheart. Cobalt won’t let anything happen to you, ok?” Jason soothed. The girl gave a small, shy nod in response.

Jason then turned to Rosa and sent a rapid-fire series of gestures. Directing her into the hallway to clear the way for the kids. She spun on her heel and disappeared into her cloak. Moving soundlessly to ensure the hall was safe. Meanwhile, his agents began to line the kids up. Making two lines with Sierra at the center. Her hands held in the grips of the little girl and another little boy.

“Ok guys! Make sure you keep a hold of one another. You’re going to go meet some friends of ours named Gold team. They’ll watch after you until we can get you back to your parents.” Jason explained. Before stepping aside and allowing the small convoy into the hall. April and Lorne eyeing the Executive residence as they covered the mess of children.

Jason was about to turn again and move to direct Silver and Maroon forward, when a small tug interrupted him. Looking down, he saw another boy tugging on his holster. He immediately crouched down to the boy’s level. Both to keep him away from his pistol and meet him at eye level.

“What’s up buddy? You need to keep moving to keep up with your friends.” Jason spoke softly.

“My friend was with another group. Can………can you find her……. Please? Her name is Jessica and she’s blonde with a blue dress. She was with Mr. Elliot ” The little boy said. His voice was scratchy and tight.

“Sure, buddy. I’m going to find all your friends and get you all out of here.” Jason said with confidence and reassurance. Before lightly forcing the kid forward and in front of O’Brian “Now, let's get you moving buddy.”

“Terry, my name is Terry.” The boy, now Terry, answered. Still looking back at Jason as O’Brian took his shoulder. Jason stood back to his full height and followed the duo into the hall.

“It’s nice to meet you Terry, you can call me Knight. But get moving now.” Jason said as they parted ways. Jason watched as Terry and O’Brian sped walked down the hall, before turning the corner and disappearing from sight. He then turned and resumed his position as point man. Leading Maroon and Silver forward.

As they rounded the corner into the Executive Residence, Jason directed them toward the stairs off the central hall. He knew that if they wanted to have any shot at moving the President from the West Wing to the East, they’d need to have the upstairs secure. It also, coincidentally, allowed him to search for the other school children. Something that he felt warranted straying a bit from the mission. After all they didn’t have Bunkers.

His team made short work of the stairs and emerged on the second floor’s central hallway. Turning left, The team breached and cleared the East room silently and to no opposition. Something that seemed to be becoming a theme as the group re-entered the hall. They knew that to stage something as large as this would require a lot of manpower and planning. But besides the small squad, Jason’s team wasn’t encountering any sort of resistance. Which rubbed Jason the wrong way. His instincts screaming trap or misdirection.

Jason’s team moved silently into the main greeting hall. Rifles panning for targets where none seemed to be.

“Lorne, we’re going to clear the……” Jason started but never finished. As the wall of the Blue Room exploded and a golden figure sailed out. Her shield connecting solidly with Jason’s side and propelling the two through the main doors and onto the North Lawn.

Jason was thrown clear across the cement pathway and bushes. Landing in a tumble of limbs and carving up the lawn, as he worked to right himself. His shoulders rotating as he bounced twice before coming to a stop with a loud crack, with his back against the side of the fountain. He slowly began to stand back up, while taking in his new surroundings. To his right, he could see a parameter of tanks, humvees, and men beyond the White House fence. The Ranger Strikeforce having arrived and beginning to establish land dominance. Looking down and checking his equipment once more, he was unsurprised to find his rifle bent and broken again. But luckily, his pistols and blades all seemed none the worse for wear, his sword still concealed upon his back. Finally, he turned and looked toward the White House as three figures strode forth.

The first was unsurprising. Gizmo was back, and this time his mechanical legs seemed larger. He was also wearing what appeared to be some sort of armored rig over his normal green jumpsuit. His red goggles reflected the morning sunlight as he sneered.

“Time for round two, asshole!” He cried as his legs scampered forward.

Next to Gizmo, a behemoth of a man stalked forward. He was dressed in a torn black suit and white dress shirt. His skin was a dull gray and he had short white hair. A tied noose dangled around his neck.

“Grundy confused. We not have fight yet.” The giant rumbled. Which only stroked the ire of his companion as Gizmo turned to cuss out the lumbering ox.

But those two weren’t Jason’s concern. Rather, it was the woman standing in front and between them. A white and gold shield held on her left arm and its matching sword held in her right. She was dressed similarly to Wonder Woman. Golden greaves giving way to white pants under a golden roman skirt. Her chest and stomach were covered in white armor, besides the golden eagle emblazoned across her chest. Its design mimicked Diana’s own. Finally, two golden bracelets covered her forearms, matching the golden tiara set upon her blonde head.

“I am Aresia of the Amazons! And I will be your death, man!” Aresia sneered as she held her sword out in challenge. The sounds of rifle fire filling the air behind her in the greeting room.

Chapter 30: How To Become A National treasure

Chapter Text

Jason rolled forward. Feeling the slice of air pass by him as Aresia drove her sword into the spot he once stood. He then turned and swung, his bent rifle acting as a makeshift bat before it shattered against the Amazon’s shield. The Amazon then reacted quickly and drove her sword forward once more. In an effort to impale Jason. Who had jumped away. Giving him some breathing room and a clear shot at the approaching zombie. Who gracefully caught what remained of his rifle with his face, as Jason made one final use of the scrap metal.

Aresia then pushed off from her crouched position and was on him again. Sword flashing through the air as Jason ducked and sidestepped her swipes. Before, finally, trying to pin her sword to the ground with his left foot. While simultaneously throwing a right hook that would never land. As Aresia back handed him with her shield. Sending him skyward and into a laser from Gizmo. His darkened form crashing to earth with a small smoke trail.

“Agent Knight to Red Crown. Patch me through to my men and the Rangers.” Jason gritted out as he sat back up from his new hole in the lawn. Grundy already stalking toward him.

“Patching through now.” Waller’s firm voice cut through.

“Silver two, I need a sitrep.” Jason calmly spoke as he sidestepped Grundy’s fists. Both coming down in a hammer blow where he once laid. As the zombie started to rise back up, Jason surged forward. Clambering up the giant and drawing his right pistol. Holding the pistol sideways, Jason unloaded the clip directly into Grundy’s eye. Who quickly wrapped his large hand around Jason’s midsection and threw him into the air once more. This time, much higher than Aresia’s blow. A growl of anger echoing across the lawn from the zombie.

Aresia quickly took flight after his form. Intending to catch the agent off guard. Her sword sailed harmlessly underneath him. As he literally rolled over her and drew his grapple. He fired the line and felt it pull taunt as it started to reel him towards the ground near Gizmo. Who was caught off guard by the dark cord impacting next to him. He barely looked up in time to catch Jason’s left elbow. Which rattled his skull and sent him to the ground. His will power fighting against falling unconscious.

As Jason landed, he rolled forward and was met by Grundy’s furious visage. Fist raised as he drove forward and cratered the ground where Jason once was. As he had already rolled once more to the left and out of Grundy’s reach. But before he could re-engage, a small glint caught his attention. Which forced his body to react on autopilot. Crouching even lower and shifting his body right. The whistle of a sword passing by as Aresia crashed back to earth. She then spun again and launched Jason across the lawn once more. This time, Jason was able to roll with the blow and quickly came back up into a fighting stance as he slid across the grass.

Across the lawn, Grundy returned to his full height. While Aresia spun her sword around and resumed a fighting stance, her shield pointed towards him. Jason quietly stared them down as his comm crackled to life.

“Silver two to silver one. We’ve been engaged. I’m having Cobalt move back to us and Maroon is providing suppressing fire.” April answered. The sounds of bullets flying by and someone calling “Grenade out!” in the background. Culminating with a dull thump.

“Roger. You have command until I get back. Silver one out.” Jason directed before quickly isolating the Ranger’s comm channel.

“Rangers outside the White House fence, this is Agent Knight. I need someone in charge to respond.”

“This is Major Hampton responding. That you on the lawn?” A gruff and older sounding voice responded. Reminding Jason of Clint Eastwood.

Before Jason could answer however, Aresia launched herself back at him. But instead of her sword, she swung her shield. Seemingly attempting to decapitate him. Jason ducked once more and moved forward. Getting in tight, before unleashing a quick three piece combo to the blonde’s stomach. With a finishing uppercut to force the woman upwards. Said woman rolled with the impact and knocked him back with a solid kick as she flipped backwards. Sending him sliding again.

“Yeeeaaaah.” Jason drew out. The pit lending a sinister edge to his already distorted voice. “I need to isolate and eliminate, Major.”

“Done! Holt! Focus fire on the hostiles not actively engaging the man in black!” The Major ordered. Jason catching the tell tale sign of movement along the fence out of the side of his eye. Before the roar of rifle fire and tracers lit up the background behind Aresia.

Aresia turned quickly to the new source of noise before returning to Jason with a glare. “Men! Even after hundreds of years you fight like cowards!” She snarled.

Jason responded with a distorted snort before speaking, “Says the lady from a society that isolated themselves for thousands of years.”

“I’ll cut that insolent tongue from your head, Man!”

Jason unsheathed his knife and spun it into a reverse grip in his right hand. A grin lighting up his face as he readied himself. “In the words of a Spartan King, come and take it!”

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The Watchtower

The large conference table was packed by the founding members of the League as they watched Vicki Vale’s continued coverage of the DC invasion. Currently, Vicki had somehow worked her way to the front of the perimeter and was filming the ongoing fight between some man in black and three attackers. Clark recognized one as Grundy. The undead zombie having gone toe to toe with him some time ago, before being destroyed. It seemed his newly regenerated form was much more vulnerable. As bullets ripped small holes in his body before quickly regenerating.

“Diana, is that an Amazon?” Shayera asked from across the table. The camera zooming in on the on-going fight between a large blonde woman and the man in black. Said man was currently in mid-air, leaping over another swipe of the Amazon’s sword. Before recovering with a quick roll. He then leapt up and delivered his own backhanded swipe. A small spray of red trailing along his arc as his knife cut a shallow cavern in the Blonde’s side.

“Her name is Aresia……….she’s one of my sisters.” Diana answered haltingly. Her eyes glued to the deathmatch between her sister and the man.

“Like you knew her on the island, or actual sister?” Barry “helpfully” asked from his position nearest the screen. He was silently vibrating with energy. His body screamed at him to get down there and put a stop to this.

“She was adopted by Mother……….. I was not aware she had left the island.” Diana said. Her tone conveying a slight amount of surprise.

“Why?” Batman’s growl echoed through the room.

Bruce was just as enraptured by the footage as everyone else at the table. But where they sat and stewed in agitation and impatience, Bruce was analyzing and planning. The man and Amazon on screen being the current focus. He wasn’t blind to the troubles the rest of the League had been having ever since the discovery of the Elements some months ago. But he couldn’t help but feel there was much more going on. Not just with the government, but with this new threat.

He couldn’t help but feel as if they were missing something. This attack was obviously well planned and orchestrated, but surely they knew they couldn’t hold the capital. The military would never let that stand. And as for the President. The line of succession was clear and any benefits they thought they would hold with him as a hostage would be nullified once they sent a ransom request. Further, they now had a rogue Amazon, an undead abomination, and what could only be Gizmo thrown into the mix.

Gizmo’s motive was obvious. Probably revenge on the agent that killed Mammoth in the Arctic. Grundy’s was probably money or maybe a cure for his state of being undead. The Amazon, however, was a wild card. He didn’t know anything about her to speculate on her actions.

“Aresia is……..she despises the world of men. Much more than anyone I know of on our island. I would not think she would want to leave the safety of our island.” Diana supplied. Watching as her sister on screen slammed her shield downwards. Trying to crush the man. Who backed away slightly before running forward and driving a knee into her face. A small explosion of red coloring the hit.

“Any reason you could think of for her to be in Washington?” John Stewart asked. His face contorted in a scowl. The ex-marine’s blood boiling at the thought of leaving his country to defend itself.

“I know she’s been isolating herself for the past couple of decades. Mother said to leave her to whatever she was doing. I don’t see why she would abandon that solitude to participate in a random attack on a country.” Diana finished with a frown.

“Maybe she’s been mind controlled? Wouldn’t be the first time something like that happened.” Clark threw out. Trying to remain optimistic for the sake of his friend. But even he had doubts the Amazon wasn’t acting on her own free will. It seemed more like she was in command of the trio.

Back on screen, Jason leaned left as a downward stroke sailed by. He then sent a right hook forward with his arm blade partially extended. Aresia blocked his strike with her shield before trying to stab him again. This time, Jason allowed a glancing blow to his left side. Before he whipped his right elbow into her jaw. Then quickly followed it with a left knee to her stomach. Aresia retaliated with her own elbow strike to his gut. The armor absorbs most of the hit.

“He fights well.” J’onn’s stoic voice echoed through the room. The martian watching the fight with his attention firmly placed on their comms and any sort of go ahead from the President. He knew that they were approaching what Hal colorfully described as the “f*ck-it point”. When the JLA would step in and deal with the ramifications later. But he still held out hope that the President would soon sanction them to intercede.

Bruce’s “Hmm” was the first answer to that observation. With the second coming from Diana.

“He’s experienced. He’s not letting Aresia have any space to effectively utilize her sword and is trying to isolate the trio. I believe he’s also extremely well trained.”

“Special Forces normally are.” John answered casually.

“I have no doubt. But he moves like he’s done this a thousand times. He knows she’s stronger and faster than him, yet still he’s able to duck and weave between her strikes. It marks him as having faced similar opponents.” Diana remarked.

“He did take out Mammoth.” Shayera pointed out.

“He moves like Slade.” Bruce growled.

At that, Diana tilted her head to the side. Examining the ongoing fight. The agent did resemble much of Slade’s brutality and efficiency. But there was also so much more. The flips, tanking hits, and general blade work indicated a large variety of trainers. They had yet to see him pull the blade from his back, but even now he was holding his own with a knife. A testament to his abilities. As she knew Aresia could both challenge and beat her under normal circ*mstances.

Suddenly, a large roar broke out from the TV speakers. As Grundy raced across the screen. Gizmo floundering on the ground behind him, as the tech genius’s arms enveloped him. The zombie leapt forward in what looked to be a belly flop. Arms reared back like he was trying to smash the agent. Both Aresia and the agent leapt away from the undead projectile. As he crashed to earth with an explosion of dust.

Seconds later, a pale arm emerged from the dust and attempted to grab the agent. Who leapt back again. Meanwhile, Aresia seemed to be screaming at the zombie. Who answered her cries with a look of pure annoyance. Both taking their eyes off the agent. Whose knife had seemingly disappeared again. In favor of pulling some items from his belt. He then tore forward. A small glint being the only indication of any sort of attack as his arm shot out. Before said glint embedded itself in Aresia’s right bicep. Which unleashed a cry of pain and rage. As she turned back on her target.

At the same instance, the agent sent another blade flying. This time finding purchase in Grundy’s left eye. As Aresia sailed towards him once more. Like a running back, the agent spun around Aresia’s charge. Sending another blade into the passing Amazon’s back as she attempted to pivot around.

Suddenly, Grundy was on him again. Arms outstretched like he was going to envelope the agent in a hug. The agent ducked down and slid between the zombie’s legs. Drawing a blade across where a femoral artery would normally be located on both legs. He then shot back up and watched as the beast slowly turned back to him. Only to have to pause as Aresia charged in.

Her sword sheathed now in favor of trying to pound him into submission. The agent caught her first right hook and rolled into her. Pulling her weight towards and over him in a judo throw. He then followed up with another throwing knife thrown into her left shoulder. Which was quickly followed by another to her right abdomen. But before he could finish her off with his final knife. He was sent flying forward.

Grundy had managed to land a solid punch and sent the Agent across the lawn again. This time, he bounced once before reorienting himself to roll with the hit. The agent rolled for about five rotations before coming to a stop on his chest. He slowly began to rise, and realized he was back near the fountain and Gizmo again. The tech genius sending a furious glare between his mechanical legs. To which the agent responded by sending his last knife towards. Already knowing it wouldn’t do anything but making him feel better.

The League watched as Grundy lumbered over. Aresia taking cover behind her shield somewhere behind the zombie. As the Rangers shifted fire once more. Trying to buy time for the agent’s plan. The zombie ignored the bullets in favor of grabbing his prize. He stooped down and grabbed the agent’s neck. Hoisting him into the air like a puppet without strings. Before placing both his hands around the agent’s neck. Somewhere in the distance a loud, whoosh could be heard through the speakers. But that was ignored in favor of watching and listening to Grundy.

“Got you little metal man.” The zombie rumbled.

“Congrats! Now for your prize!” The agent called out both sarcastically and way too cheerfully.

Confusing the zombie as he pondered what that meant. But before he could reach a conclusion, the agent lurched backwards. Pulling Grundy forward with him. Grundy landed on top of the agent as the man looked past him for a second. Before refocusing on the zombie.

“Smile for the camera, big man!” The agent spoke. His tone low and deadly to the League’s ears. Before both disappeared in darkness.

For a second, the League thought they had lost the signal, or their TV had broken. It was a second later that they realized the camera man had to zoom out. Revealing a cloud of dust and crater where the two once were.

“Great Hera!”

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Colorado - Leading up to and during the lawn fight

Rose was going to kill her husband, and maybe their child’s godmothers. She was still undecided on the latter.

When she awoke, the last thing she expected to be confronted with is an Amazon cooking in Jason’s kitchen. Even less so the space princess with her dog plastered to her lap. It immediately set her on edge. As Jason wouldn’t invite anyone over without first checking with her. Even if it was just a text.

That feeling continued on after breakfast. As the two women tried to distract her by planning a girl's trip into the town. A not uncommon occurrence but combined with the fact she couldn’t find her iPad. It screamed distraction. The final straw was Kori trying to be sly and pocket her phone without her noticing. Jay really should teach her to be better at sleight of hand. Especially as said phone was clearly laid out on the table, where Rose put it a second before. She was pregnant, not blind.

“Alright, I’ll bite. What is Jay doing that has Kori looking like a kicked puppy and you more tense than normal.” Rose asked casually.

“Jay is getting groceries and didn’t want you to be lonely.” Kori tried. Her tone light and carrying the implication of not digging more.

Artemis could only snort at that. As the Amazon scrubbed a few of the plates from breakfast.

“You were on a team with the little one for over a year and that’s the best you could come up with?” Artemis’ disbelieving and highly amused voice questioned.

“I was never good with the lie. Jason never really taught me anything, and Roy was so caught up in our relationship he never thought it prudent to teach me.” Kori pouted. Only to be pulled from said pout as Bear began to lick her face.

“Ok, cool. Where’s my husband?” Rose asked again. This time much firmer and glaring at Artemis. Who returned her gaze with a raised eyebrow.

“We were told it would not be good for the baby.” The Amazon tried to deflect.

“What you’re doing right now is not good for the baby or your life expectancy.” Rose pointed out. Which made the Amazon smile. Enjoying Jason’s partner’s will to fight. Even when heavily pregnant.

“He’s been called into work.” Artemis answered.

“We’re on maternity leave until the end of the year.” Rose pointed out. Which only drew a shrug from Artemis. Rose’s eye narrowed. Before she turned to Kori.

“Kori, give me back my phone.” Rose demanded as she held out her hand. To which the alien just stared gobsmacked. “Kori!” Rose seethed, which had the princess scrambling to pull the assassin’s phone from her pocket.

Rose quickly snatched her phone and flipped to her news app and was bombarded by a wave of breaking alerts. She quickly rose as she sped walked to the family room. Looking for the remote briefly before Artemis appeared next to her with it. Already powering on the TV.

“I’m sure he’s fine. He’s dealt with a lot worse and came out unscathed.” Artemis soothed. Before she flipped to the news channel, and immediately wished she could swallow those words. Because Jason was on national TV. Fighting Aresia. The Amazon’s eyes widened as she watched Jason dip dodge and counter with his knife.

Meanwhile, Rose had her mind short circuit for a second. Then immediately the anger and concern swept in. With the concern overtaking any sense of anger Rose felt. She understood. It wasn’t a call Jason could not answer. Hell, if she wasn’t pregnant, she’d be right next to him. She made her way around the couch and slumped down on it. Bear, sensing her concern, leapt up next to her and laid his head on her lap. Kori walked around the duo, before planting herself on Rose’s other side. Pulling the woman into a side hug and trying to keep her calm. Rose absentmindedly began to stroke Bear as she watched.

They watched silently as Jason fought. His knives putting on a show for the world as he dipped and dived between both Aresia and Grundy. Rose’s breath halting and relaxing in tandem. Until Grundy landed his hit. Sending Jason across the lawn. Rose’s hands paused in their stroking of Bear and were subsequently enveloped in Kori’s grip.

She watched as her soon-to-be husband was lifted into the air, bonelessly.

“Got you little metal man.” The zombie rumbled. Rose’s eye began to water as she watched on helplessly.

“Congrats! Now for your prize!” Jason responded and she knew that tone. It was his, “You f*cked up” voice. But before she could think through what that might mean, Jason pulled himself backwards and her screen went black. To the utter silence of her home. Before the camera zoomed out. Revealing a cloud and crater where Jason and Grundy once stood.

“JASON!”

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Washington DC

The swirling mass of black smoke filtered into the sky. Vicki and the soldiers around her watching silently. It was as if an unofficial moment of silence was declared, and she couldn’t believe what she had captured. Agent Knight sacrificing himself live on national TV. Eat your heart out Lois! Vicki was going to be in history books. Her footage being some of the only available news sources in the crisis.

She could already see the headlines and interviews. She was going to be THE news reporter. And then something happened which threw those thoughts out the window. Only to be replaced by one question.

“What the f*ck?!”

xxxxxxxxxx

“Alright, we can survive a Javelin. Good to know.” The agent thought as he took inventory of his being. Sword? Still somehow attached to his back. Armor? Singed and the paint was severely chipped and scratched again. Pistols? Scrapped, unsurprisingly. Throwing Knives? Mostly in Aresia, and Grundy got to take a few with him as a souvenir. Grapple?.......... No f*cking clue. Arm blades? His right seemed to be out of commission, but his left was still at one hundred percent. He can make that work. Finally, he checked his kinetic energy storage. Which was probably the highest he’s ever seen it. Still nowhere near maxed out, but definitely higher than any fight before. Lex and Darpa real don’t skip out on fighting Superman.

He next took inventory of himself. His readings already populating on his HUD. Probable concussion in the near future, of course. Hairline fractures in several ribs. Surprisingly, no internal bleeding or lacerations. Overall status…… Green.

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Vicki and the soldiers watched silently with mouths agape as a figure emerged from the smoke. Prying a hand, that was clutching his throat, off and throwing it to the ground. As smoke trailed off his armor. A red glow encompassing his chest between the plates. He looked like a reaper. He then turned his gaze to the surprised Amazon and tech genius.

“Who's next?”

Chapter 31: Rangers Lead the Way!

Chapter Text

Titan’s Tower and The Mountain - During the Lawn Battle

“Yes, we’re seeing this Tim.” Dick all but sighed into the computer. It was bad enough that it wasn’t even nine for the rest of the team. But he had been called in after a month of sleepless nights. Babs, Damian, and him adjusting to their new sleep schedule with his daughter, Elainna. Which, to put it simply, was non-existent.

Tim and his team’s image shifted as Connor began to pace and M’gann stood to get her team more water. Their video call to the left of Vicki’s broadcast.

“Dick, we should be doing something.” came Cyborg’s call behind him. The Titans all gathered around and on the sectional in the living room as they watched the battle live. Dick could feel the anxious energy in the room as Garfield bounced his leg incessantly and Donna clenched and unclenched her fist. Worse, it seemed no one knew where Kori had gone. Only Raven mentioning she saw the princess flying by her this morning and towards the zeta room.

“We’re not going to do anything until the JLA moves. There’s already enough bad blood going around.” Dick tried. Not even believing it himself as the words filtered into the air. But before his team could argue, the news camera spun and suddenly everyone was watching a black blur sail out of the White House. Said blur bounced twice before connecting with a loud crack against the fountain.

Both teams watched on as the camera continued to focus on the blur’s landing spot. As if already knowing that it had found the news story of the century. In the background, two white figures sauntered out the doorway, followed by some mechanical looking legs. But the team’s attention was focused on the newly visible arm that had appeared on the edge of the fountain. Which was followed by the rest of said figure as he began to stand.

“Agent Knight.” Donna answered the unspoken question. She watched as he panned to his right before looking back down at his now useless rifle. Which didn’t seem to faze the agent he met the glare of his approaching attackers. One of which Donna recognized almost immediately.

“Aresia?!”

Garfield turned to look at Donna, head tilted in confusion, “Aresia?”

Now, all her teammates had turned to her. All waiting for her to continue.

“She’s an Amazon…….and one of my sisters. I didn’t know my mother let her off the island.”

From the computer, Tim’s voice echoed into the room as he questioned Cassie, “Do you know anything about her?”

From her position on the couch, Cassie shook off what the rest had assumed was some sort of early morning daze. Her eyes blinked rapidly from their originally wide positions. As she worked through the emotions of seeing Jason again. Which had M’gann looking at her questioningly from her position off-screen and in the kitchen. It wasn’t often Cassie was surprised by something.

“No, I know Artemis mentioned that name a few times in our training but I never knew who she was talking about.” Cassie said. As the Amazon on screen leapt forward and impaled the ground next to Jason on-screen.

In the Titan’s Tower, Donna nodded absently. Now much more focused on the fight on screen. “I’m not surprised. Aresia and Diana were some of her best trainees.”

On-screen the agent clambered up Grundy and unloaded his pistol into the beast’s eye. Before sending him flying into the air. The golden Amazon followed along, before seemingly being caught off guard as the agent bypassed her and rocketed himself to earth with a grapple. From there, the teams watched as he rolled and ducked between Grundy’s strikes and eventually Aresia’s swipe. Before taking to the air once more.

“He’s certainly tenacious.” M’gann observed as she returned to her team. Sitting back on her area of the couch, but not without a small side-eye at Cassie. Which was completely missed as Cassie was fully enraptured in the fight on screen.

“The guy’s nuts!” Bart called from his position on the ground. Watching as the agent re-engaged Aresia again before being forced away again. Only to draw his knife as the Rangers finally engaged in the fight. “All those weapons and he’s going to fight an Amazon with a knife?!” Bart finished, incredulous at the agent’s preferred weapon.

“He wants inside her guard.” Cassie all but whispered. Her mind was bouncing rapidly as she tried to decide what to do. Dick and Tim’s brother was on national TV and could die at any second. She already knew he was skilled, but fighting someone on Wonder Woman’s level was a bit extreme. Discounting the fact that the Bat had done it before. She just didn’t know what to do or say, so she watched on.

Back on-screen, Jason had sent a right hook at Aresia. Which was swiftly blocked before the Amazon landed a glancing blow. Tiny sparks trailing the blade as it slid across his armor. He then lashed out with an elbow to her jaw.

The teams watched in rapt attention as the duo traded blows. Jason either dodged or forced what blows did hit to glace off his gear. Before Grundy’s roar drew the camera to him as he charged and dove. Cratering the ground and drawing the ire of Aresia. Which gave Jason the time he needed to switch to his throwing knives. Which were swiftly finding new homes in the attackers.

“Holy hell! Does Slade have another demon child we don’t know about?!” Garfield asked his team as he stared at the Agent fighting both Grundy and a pissed off Amazon. Not only fighting, but actively winning as far as he could tell.

“No, but Slade seemed to have some sort of respect for him when we met in the White House.” Donna answered.

Meanwhile, Cassie was actually pondering that. If Jason was marrying Rose and becoming Slade’s son-in-law, where does that put him in the Wilson family? From what Donna said, Slade approved of him. Not that Jason would still be breathing if he didn’t. But it made her wonder.

She shook those thoughts as Jason once again was sent across the lawn. This time rising much more slowly and only half-heartedly throwing his last blade at Gizmo. Cassie watched on in horror as Jason was lifted into the air. Her mind already working through the worst case scenarios.

“Gods! He’s going to die and I’m going to have to be the one to tell Tim and Dick! They don’t even know its Jason on national TV! Hell! Jason was going to die on national TV!”

But then her mind short circuited as the screen seemed to black out.

“The hell?!” Connor asked behind her as he paused in his pacing. His gaze locked on the screen as it zoomed out. Revealing the crater.

“Damn.” Cyborg’s observation echoed around the Tower and out of the speakers.

Tentatively, Cassie began to work her way off the couch. Trying to muster up the courage, and failing tremendously, to grab Tim’s attention. Who was locked on the screen as if it was another one of his cases. Brow creased in concentration.

“Tim…..” She started softly before Bart cried out behind her.

“What the f*ck?!” Which was followed by his fellow Young Justice members and Titans similar exclamations.

Her gaze snapped back to the screen. Watching as Jason marched out the smoke. Throwing down some sort of white object and panning between the two remaining attackers. His gaze predatory and pissed. But Cassie could care less as she slumped back onto the couch. Breathing heavily and ignored by all but one of her teammates. As she thought, somewhat deliriously,

“What the f*ck?! Tim……your brother’s an asshole and I hate him.”

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White House Lawn

Jason waited for Aresia to make the first move. Gizmo was still trying to shake off that elbow from earlier. “Should have invested in a helmet that covered the temple.” He thought wryly.

“So I have to ask you. What are you getting out of all this? I know the gremlin wants my head for his wall, but I don’t see any reason for an Amazon to be involved.” Jason pointed out. As he let the Amazon work her way back to her feet.

“A paradise without men.” Aresia sneered.

“You have the island last I checked.” Jason dismissed

Aresia growled at that, “One small island of paradise is nothing against your ilk. I will have nations under my control. Where I will rule as a queen among my sisters.”

“How’s that supposed to happen? I’m not seeing any magic lamps or great armies.” Jason asked. Tone held level.

Aresia smiled. Like she held all the cards, “I was told your government had a great many diseases on hand. It would be a shame if one were to be lost in the chaos of this day.”

Jason tensed before relaxing back into his battle focus. Allowing the green to light up the world and lending a pulse around anything deemed a threat. Further slowing the world as Aresia once again pushed off towards him. This time not even drawing her blade as she tried to crush him. A right hook sailing past him. As he rocked to his left and pried the embedded throwing knife in her bicep free. Before dropping low as Aresia’s left hook sailed over him again. He then struck forward and stabbed the blade into her left side. Between two of her ribs.

Aresia Gasped as she lost her balance and lurched past him. He helped her along with a little push and kick. Sending her to her knees facing away from him. He then stalked forward. Aresia waited as she worked to keep her breathing steady. The pain from the blade taking hold with every breath. She then turned and lashed out once more. This time launching the shield at the agent.

Jason directed some of the contained energy to his feet and leapt. Easily clearing the shield as the energy pushed him skyward. He also pivoted his body as he flew. So that when he landed, he was face to face with Aresia. Who attacked like a cornered animal. Savage punches and attempts at grabbing his arms. Jason just floated around her. Letting her lose steam as she caught nothing but air. Until one swing over extended her. Allowing Jason to throw a left jab to her side. Feeling the cracking and splintering of two ribs under the blow. Instantly, the Amazon fell to a knee once more. Trying to catch her breath again.

“That was two ribs and your left lung has been punctured.” Jason observed. Waiting for the Amazon to come to her own conclusion. He backed away, giving her a chance to make the smart move.

But instead, she surged back to her feet again. Sword swinging around as she desperately lashed out. Which Jason decides to meet with his own blade. Unsheathing Talia’s sword and deflecting one of her swipes. Before advancing forward with his own swipes. Forcing Aresia to retreat and defend with her own blade. Sparks erupting with each hit. Until Jason seized an opportunity. He caught her blade once more, but this time he rolled the blade. Forcing it downwards and into the ground. Before landing another knee to Aresia’s face. Sending her stumbling back again and disarming her.

He then flicked the switch on his hilt and swung. Aresia reacted instinctively and raised her left bracer to catch the blade. Only this time, she never felt the blade make impact, or hear the dull clang of metal meeting metal. Instead, she felt blinding white pain jet up her arm. Along with the sizzle of fleshing being burned. By the time Jason had completed his swing and depowered the blade once more, Aresia’s arm was bouncing on the grass below them. The woman looked at him with wide eyes and shock. Before he leveled a spartan kick and sent her flying into the side of the fountain. Cracking the cement and ending her fight.

Jason then shifted his attention to Gizmo. Who was working his way back onto his legs. But, if the swaying was any indication, wasn’t going to remain upright for long. Jason guessed he had at least a concussion. Honestly, probably some sort of traumatic brain injury.

He advanced towards the fountain. Eyes never wavering from Gizmo as he walked. But then a glint caught his eye. Strangely coming from above the fountain. He turned his attention to the new threat and was met by Wonder Woman descending. The woman was as regal as ever as she settled on the grass.

“Your fight is over.” Diana declared to the agent. Who seemed to stare at her for a second before shifting his gaze over her shoulder to Aresia and then to Gizmo. Who stumbled and fell back to the ground.

“For them maybe.” He snorted. Before spinning his sword and returning it to its sheath.

“My allies are…”

“Who let you out of your tower?” Jason interrupted. He didn’t much care what the League did or did not do. Only really caring that he had to spend the rest of his day looking out for a broody asshole in a cape.

“We felt the situation had devolved too much. Intervention was necessary.” Diana defended. She could feel the eyebrow raise as the agent glared at Aresia’s form one more time.

“Uh huh.” Jason returned. He would normally be much nicer to Diana, but it's been a long day already. And her sister just tried to gut him, so being charitable was kinda off the table at this point.

“Silver One! Come in!” April’s voice interrupted whatever other thoughts he may have had. As he pivoted immediately and started focusing on his team again. His entire body turned the White House.

“Reading Silver Two!”

“We’ve had to fall back to the hallway! We don’t know where they came from, but they got a large group of reinforcements from the West Wing! We’re guessing heavy armor as they’re taking a lot more hits than their buddies!” April answered as the sound of gunfire echoed behind her.

“Roger that! Any casualties?” Jason asked as he observed the windows.

“We’ve all taken a few rounds. But no penetration and kinetic absorbers are at one hundred percent.” April rattled off.

“Good! Hold out until I get the…..” Jason started. But then some movement along the windows pulled his gaze. He watched as the masked men and women set up some sort of stand in each window. Followed by what could only be a minigun. The team quickly loaded the rounds as one of their number secured the gun itself. He had barely a second to switch frequencies and dive towards Diana. Who was completely taken off guard by his actions.

“Cover!” He cried as he tackled Diana behind the fountain. His back to the White house as he tried to shield her from the incoming fire. Which erupted like a stream. Bullets tearing up where he once stood and sailing into the surrounding Rangers. Who dove behind the Bradleys, or dropped as low as they could. Jason felt one or two rounds ping off him as he laid there. Trying to curl around Diana as much as possible.

Suddenly, Major Hampton’s gruff voice cut through his comms, “Crusader one and three! Take out those guns!” To which the Bradley’s turrets began rotating. Zeroing in on where the fire was coming from, before unleashing their M240 machine guns. Tracers lighting up the lawn as the rounds tore into the crews and gun emplacements.

A few seconds later the fire tampered off as everyone took a collective breath. Jason relaxed out of his curl and began to shift over the fountain. Eyeing the windows and the motley of holes surrounding them. He then panned over to Gizmo and Aresia. Aresia was somehow untouched by the fury of the bullets. Still completely dead to the world from her position against the fountain. Gizmo however…… had been hit by several shots. The pool of blood underneath him expanding rapidly.

Before Jason could stand back up and help Diana up, another round ricocheted off his helmet. Which announced another wave of gunfire as the attackers took positions in the windows and unleashed their fire. Sending Jason back down along with everyone behind them.

“Major! I think it's time we take back our house!” Jason radioed the Major.

“Damn Straight! Load up Rangers! We got a house to remodel!” Hampton’s voice echoed. Sending his men into motion and causing the Bradley’s to growl as their engines roared. Jason then flicked to a global frequency that all the soldiers nearby could hear.

“Rangers!.......... Lead The Way!”

Chapter 32: The Hallway Race

Chapter Text

Vicki watched as three Bradleys rumbled forth. Crushing the ornate fence and sending a loud screech of bending metal into the air. It was loud enough that she had missed the dark shape of one of the JLA’s Javelins banking above them. Releasing three additional flyers that immediately b-lined to the surrounding buildings. Intent on clearing them.

Instead, her and Dale were focused on Agent Knight and Wonder Woman. The two huddled behind the White House fountain. Small puffs of rock and dust peppering their cover as the attackers concentrated their fire. Occasionally, a small spark would appear along the agent’s back or plates. Announcing another round deflecting or crumpling against his armor. It was like something out of a video game in Vicki’s mind.

Meanwhile, Dale was concentrating on getting the perfect shot. Camera never wavering from the two as rounds sailed by. Only to be cut off by the first of the tanks rumbling by. Returning fire with its own machine gun and providing cover for a wave of men behind the third tank. All of which was being captured by Dale. Who could already see his name up in the Smithsonian.

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Jason watched the second Bradley roar by. Shaking the earth and pulling fire away from them. Diana still hunkered in front of him as he waited for the third and final Bradley to make its pass.

“Listen!” Jason roared. Hoping that his distorted voice carried over the loud growl of the tanks. “When the third tank passes, we’re going to make a sprint for the Rangers following it!”

“What of the…….others?!” Diana questioned.

“If Gizmo isn’t already dead, he will be in a bit and your sister seems fine! I’m sure one of the medics will get to her before she’s detained!”

Even if he couldn’t see her face, he felt Diana tense. Obviously, one of her sisters being arrested wasn’t sitting well with her. But that wasn’t his circus. So it wasn’t his monkey. He turned his attention back to the parade of Bradleys. The third was about half way by them. Jason shifted. Moving them both to their knees and pulling his left foot forward.

“Three, two, one, move!” Jason directed. Already moving and dragging along Diana from under her shoulders. Before she caught up with him and picked up the pace. Jason tried to curl around her as much as possible. Both minimizing the target and covering Diana. Which turned out to be a good move. As, a second later, he was lit up by a barrage of fire. A few rounds deflecting off his helmet and eliciting a growl. Before the two almost tumbled to a stop behind the tank.

Jason uncurled and released Diana. Already focusing on the Sergeant. Who was looking at him with a raised eyebrow. As his men brushed by. Jason fell in with a hesitant Diana following.

“So…..you like getting lit up like a Christmas tree or is that just a perk of the job?” The Sergeant drawled. A thick Texas accent coloring his words.

“It's a perk. If I get shot twenty times I get a knife set. Fifty and I get my next rifle free.” Jason sassed. Causing one of the men to snort.

“Speaking of….. Hutch! Diego! Give the man his backups!” The Sergeant directed. One man was already pulling his second pistol and holding it out to Jason. Eyes following the man in front of him and entirely focused on the coming fight.

Jason took the Beretta M9 and secured it in his right holster. Before snatching the three extra clips the man was holding out. Dropping them along his left side. Before he could thank the man, another turned to him. Holding out a M249 light machine gun, with acog and grip attached. To which Jason took eagerly. Hoisting its barrel skyward in his right arm as he took the extra box magazine and secured it on his left front mag point.

Jason then gave each man a quick nod in thanks before dropping back to the Sergeant. “Where’s the major?”

“He’s with Alpha. Point of the spear and all that.” The Sergeant dismissed. Which puzzled Jason for exactly one second, before a loud bang of crushing concrete and wood echoed around them. Jason moved to the Sergeant’s left and peered around the line of tanks. Diana copied behind him.

The first Bradley was…….remodeling the front terrace. Knocking a tank sized hole into the wall where the door once stood. Powering through and popping smoke. The second tank pivoted and turned left. Rotating its turret and unleashing a torrent of lead to cover the Major. As men pounded down its ramp and turned towards the door. The windows of the house lit up with rifle fire as the first tank disembarked its own men into the smoke.

“I think your Major might be my fifth favorite person right now.” Jason announced. Admiration clear in his voice.

“High praise indeed.” One of the Rangers said. Completely deadpan and serious. Drawing a few snickers from his team.

“Alright! That's enough! Let’s get to it!” The Sergeant called. Picking up his pace into a combat jog and bounding up the stairs. Diana only paused to spare a final glance at Aresia, as a team of medics surrounded her. Before turning and drawing her shield, following the soldiers into the house. They swept into the room. Loud pops of gunfire indicating there was still some sort of ongoing fight, but below them based on the sound. In the center of the room, Major Hampton stood circled by three of his men and April. Who greeted Jason with a nod.

“Agent Knight. We’ve secured the Executive Residence, but they’ve dug themselves in over at the entrance to the West Wing.” Major Hampton said. Jumping straight to business.

“Alright. First, I want Alpha to sweep back to the East Wing and relieve Gold Team. Wolf, what’s the status of Maroon and Cobalt?” Jason started.

“Green. They’re currently holding the entrance to the West Wing and waiting on our go. Further, you should be aware that Eagle-01 has gone radio silent as of five mikes ago.” April answered. Sparing Diana a quick glance as the Amazon examined the new agent in front of her.

“Ok. Then we need to move. Beta and Charlie will follow my agents and sweep through the West Wing. Make sure we have everyone check fire. We believe there are still missing children being held hostage somewhere in the House. Clear?” Jason ordered. All the men gave him a quick nod before dispersing to organize their men.

Jason then turned and marched towards the stairs. April falling in silently and eyeing the Amazon who was following along.

“Red Crown. What’s the status of Eagle-01?” Jason radioed. Turning down the stairs.

“Unknown at this time Agent Knight. We’re working to track him.” Waller answered. completely calm.

“Acknowledged, Red Crown. Be advised, hostiles appear to be a cult or fanatics.”

“Affirmative, Agent Knight. It’s the Church of Blood. I believe you’re familiar.” Waller answered.

“Affirmative, Red Crown. Keep me advised.” Jason said before cutting the connection. His mind was already trying to suss out the endgame. It didn’t make sense to commit to such a large assault without some sort of assurance. Further, the cult was trying to hold ground. Despite being heavily out-gunned.

The trio reached the lower floor and started to turn right. But stopped when Jason turned back to Diana.

“Listen, I don’t know what your team’s plans are, but I can’t have you jeopardizing my men. Especially now that I have the Major and his men with me. So if you’re going to come along, I need you to follow my lead…… Otherwise, there’s a group of children holed up in the East Wing that will need an escort once we rescue their classmates.” Jason said while pointing towards the East Wing.

Diana glared at him. Silently indicating that he wasn’t going to get rid of her that easily.

“Alright, then you’re on point. Line up in the hallway.” Jason directed. Pointing to an empty spot in the middle hallway. As he led his small group forward. Diana made her way to the agent’s indicated position and turned back to him. Ready for his go. But instead, he was staring down the opposite hallway. She then turned to the new agent and saw she was doing the exact same, before Knight’s voice called out.

“Agents, we’re going to sweep in hard and fast. Gold Team, don’t stop for anything, diamond formation. Wolf will lead Cobalt and Maroon. Follow us through and escort the Rangers. If there are any hostages, they’re on you to secure. Clear?” Jason asked into his comm, receiving green lights from his team on his HUD.

He then spared Diana a glance, finding a slightly confused look on her face. Before movement in the East Wing hallway caught his eye. Gold Team had rounded the corner and were running towards them. Repositioning themselves into the gaps between Jason and Diana, as April moved toward Lorne and Sierra’s teams.

Jason then turned back to Diana. “You’re going to be the first one through the doors. I don’t want you to stop for anything or anyone. If they get in your way, run them over or throw them to the side. Someone else will clean them up. Our objective is the West Wing bunker.” Jason then began to rotate his shoulders and bounce on the balls of his feet. Readying his body for the run.

“And if they use the hostages as shields?” Diana pointed out. Watching as he bounced with his head turned towards the encroaching agents. Which was still something Diana was working to understand. Because these agents seemed to have come out of nowhere. She was going to have to check with Bruce and see if he had done any sort of…….inquiry after this.

“One problem at a time.” Jason dismissed. Before hefting his new rifle towards the West Wing hallway and bounding forward a few steps. Diana quickly followed and overtook him as Simmons fell in on his left. McCoy and Hopkins took Diana’s right. As one, the team raced forth like an arrow. Rifles trained straight ahead and eyes focused.

Diana led the charge, taking two large leaping strides, before smashing through the double doors. Which flew open in a shower of wood shards. It was barely a second later that she felt the first of the incoming fire deflecting off her shield.

The Cult had set up a series of firing positions between the columns and doorways. Which they now used to rain fire upon the encroaching agents. Who answered in kind. Firing short controlled. bursts as they advanced. Peppering the hallway’s walls and columns with bullets or dropping some of the cult members.

As they raced forth, one cult member had the bright idea to try and tackle Simmons as they passed. A loud roar announcing the attempt as he flew out from behind his column.

Simmons merely paused and crouched low. Digging his left shoulder into the man’s thigh before hefting the cult member up and over. Sending the man flying over Simmons’ shoulder, as his momentum carried him forward. He landed in a tumble on his back as Simmons continued on. Not even giving the man a cursory glance.

The cult member scrambled on the ground. Turning onto his stomach and drawing a pistol from his belt. He leveled his sights on the back of Simmons’s head, as the agent moved to his left. Giving Jason room to throw the cult member he had impaled on his arm blade to the side. But before the cult member could pull the trigger, a large hole was suddenly opened in his forehead. As Sierra and the rest of her team followed behind. Dropping any remaining threats.

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Jason followed as Diana rounded the corner into the next section of the hallway. According to their blueprints, the right-hand side held the briefing room. Where the communications director would discuss and inform the press of the current goings on in the White House and beyond. While the left was a series of more columns and windows. Making it look more grand than just some basic hallway.

But now that grandness was working against them. As more and more cult members huddled in these recesses and rained fire upon them. With Diana’s shield taking a majority of the fire, due to her armor’s bold colors. But there were still enough rounds heading towards Jason’s team to concern him.

He knew that their armor was extremely durable. The combination of the kinetic absorbers and titanium armor made them walking tanks. But still, their gear was nowhere near the durability of his suit, and there were a lot of rounds pinging off their gear.

“Gold Team, fall in behind me and Wonder Woman.” Jason ordered. Already moving forward and out of formation. Causing Diana to speed up as well, as she thought she was beginning to lag behind. Gold Team slowed and dropped in behind the two blockers. Letting them set the pace and poking out to provide covering fire. As one, the formation pushed forward.

Jason concentrated on suppressing as many of the cult members as possible. His bursts targeting the columns and walls as he advanced, should no target be available. Keeping them pinned and allowing Simmons and McCoy to clean up the hostiles as they moved. Diana, meanwhile, concentrated on staying in formation with Jason. Watching the agent intently and ignoring the rounds bouncing off her shield and leg armor. As all Amazon gear was designed personally by Hephaestus and his personnel blend of metals. Suddenly, a distorted woman’s voice called out behind her.

“Hostiles in the open!” Before she opened up with her rifle. Now set to automatic. Agent Knight didn’t need any sort of call out. Already unleashing what could only be described as a wall of bullets at the incoming cult members. Reducing the front rank to shreds and slowing their advance.

But this did nothing to dissuade their comrades behind them. Who shoved aside and or stepped over the dead and dying. Returning fire to buy time for their prophet. From within the tidal wave of red, a small circular object flew forth.

“Grenade!” Jason cried. As the projectile bounced once before landing directly in their path. Without a second thought, Jason dove forward. Landing on his stomach with the grenade completely smothered. Which detonated with a dull thump and sent Jason a foot into the air. With his new rifle skittering away from him. He crashed back down, leaving the mag box on his stomach completely destroyed. From his new prone position, he reached out towards his M249 and leveled its sights on the incoming members. Unleashing whatever firepower remained within.

Diana and his team slid to a stop next to him. With Simmons crouching behind Jason and dropping whatever cult member escaped Jason’s fire. While McCoy and Hopkins added their fire from over Diana. From behind her shield, Diana reached out towards the agent. Grasping him under his right shoulder in an effort to haul him back up. Only to stop when a growl erupted from the agent.

“One sec!” Jason snarled. Dropping another three targets before shifting towards the final wave of reinforcements.

“Ok, pull me up!” Jason called out. Diana immediately grabbed his side and hauled him up. As he continued to lay down fire. Until the dull clicks of an empty mag caused Jason to glance down towards the magazine. Before he refocused on the last wave. Without further thought, he threw the heavy rifle forward. Catching a charging man in the chest and sending him to the floor. Jason then pulled his pistol free of its holster and extended his left arm blade. The silver blade glistened in the mid-morning light.

He stalked forward. Pistol snapping to and fro as he dropped the cult members that were trying to slow them down from behind their cover. As he passed a column, one cult member leapt out brandishing a knife. The member targeted Jason’s throat, thinking it was probably the weakest point on the armor. Only to lose track of his target as the agent pivoted. Allowing the knife to sail harmlessly past him, while driving his arm blade into the man’s side. Cutting through his lungs and heart in one strike.

Jason then retracted his blade and allowed the man to fall. Drawing his pistol forth in a two-handed grip. Only to be met with Diana shield bashing another assailant. Sending the woman flying back into the wall at the end of the hallway. He then pushed by Diana. Sweeping the hallway again as his team concentrated fire on any enemies behind them.

He was the first to round the corner and was immediately met with a punch to the face. Before having to leap away from some sort of hatchet from the man’s partner. Two of the smarter cult members had held back to try and ambush the team as they rounded into the final hallway. Jason recentered himself and eyed the man and woman. Who had dropped back into individual combat stances, with the man drawing a knife.

Jason stepped forward. Placing himself in between the two in a low stance. The man struck first. Driving his knife high and towards Jason’s neck. Who raised his right arm. Catching the man’s forearm. Before Jason had to react again. This time catching the woman’s forearm in his left hand, as she attempted to swing her hatchet into his left side. In a low arc.

Jason then pulled the woman towards him. Directing her body in front of his own, as the man dropped back. The woman, caught off guard, attempted to catch herself. Trying to both spin and crouch at the same time, to pull her hatchet back into play. But she would never get the chance. As Jason leveled his pistol on the side of her head. Before unleashing a round through her temple. Jason shoved the body aside before leveling his pistol again in both hands. Dumping the remaining magazine into the final man. Who flew backwards as he died.

Jason then called, “Clear!” As he quickly reloaded his pistol. With Gold Team responding in-kind behind him.

Diana rounded the corner, before taking in the sight of the two dead members. She then turned to the hallway. Which was absolutely littered with bodies and blood now. She was no stranger to war, having been in hundreds of fights and her Amazon training. But this……..group was troubling her. They moved as one. Able to switch on the fly from close quarters to mid-range combat and back again. All the while covering one another and seamlessly integrating outsiders like herself into their mix. It spoke to a very high level of training and experience and reminded her of Batman and Robin’s fighting style. Always moving to cover one another.

Agent Knight broke her from her thoughts as he waved them forward. Rushing down the hallway with his fellow agents trailing behind. Diana quickly ran forward and overtook the small team. Sparing a glance at Knight, before he pointed ahead of them.

“See that bookcase?! Run through it!” Jason ordered Diana. Who once again took two long strides before flying forth. Bashing through the bookcase and large metal door behind it. What Jason had failed to mention was that the doorway led to a hidden stairwell. So when Diana breached the door, she crashed through the handrail and immediately plummeted two stories to ground below. Landing on top of her shield and door.

The agents behind her pivoted and all but flew down the stairs. Reaching the bottom by the time she had righted herself. They pressed forward into the dark hallway that was occasionally lit by the flickering of the overhead lights. Eventually they came upon the large metal door that was meant to serve as the final barrier to the President’s bunker. But instead of the large door, they were met by a mess of molten metal. The group trampled through and was greeted by the sight of a destroyed situation room.

Bodies were spread throughout the room. Some ended by conventional fire, while others looked like they had been partially disintegrated. With the monitors and screens all flickering like some sort of horror film around them. Jason surveyed the room. Eyes bouncing from body to body, as he looked for the President. His team did the same as they cleared left and right.

Jason eventually looked at each of them in turn. Receiving small headshakes that they hadn’t found anything. Before radioing Waller.

“Red Crown, Gold Team has breached the bunker. No signs of Eagle-01, but everyone else is gone.” Jason said as he turned back to the hallway again. This time noticing a large hole that had been cut into the wall. Which led to a large path of darkness beyond. It had initially been covered by the darkness of the hallway but was now as clear as day.

“Roger that Agent Knight, we’re……………….. Agent Knight! Get your team up and out of there! We’re detecting a large energy source making its way towards the Washington Monument!” Waller ordered. While her team sent images of the energy source from the surrounding cameras.

What the agents saw was an entourage of cult members marching in file. Some carried large rifles that seemed to radiate some sort of red glow. While others packed standard rifles and grenade launchers. At the front of the red and gold mass, Sebastian Blood strutted forth. His gait confident and assured. In his left hand, he carried the uncontained elements that Jason had extracted months ago. A pulsing glow indicating their stored power.

But in the middle of this small battalion, stood Jason’s target. A beaten and bloodied President Jackson.

Chapter 33: Up The Hill!

Chapter Text

April directed the final kid past her and into the hallway. The small class making a precession line as her agents and the Rangers directed them down the hall and towards the East Wing.

Her team had followed Jason’s group through the hallway. Finishing off any stragglers to prevent the enemy from attacking them from behind. It was during this push that Sierra noticed some shuffling behind the press room’s doors. Which led to her team and several Rangers breaching the room. Only to find the remaining school children huddled together on the far side of the room. Shaking in fear.

From there it was a blur of comforting the kids and clearing away what bodies they could. The kids had already seen enough in April’s mind.

She turned back to the hallway again. Watching as the kids disappeared around the corner. Flanked by four Rangers who seemed to be taking it slow for the kid’s benefit. She then huffed out a loud sigh. Pulling both Lorne’s and Sierra’s attention to her. Their faceless visages hiding their true expressions before Lorne spoke.

“It doesn’t get easier, lass.” He sighed. Sounding just as tired as April was feeling. Sierra just nodded silently in agreement.

The trio then motioned to their teams. Pulling the four agent’s attention, who signaled to their Ranger attaché. The full group moved out again to regroup with the agents in the bunker. But it seemed that plan was now void. As Jason’s voice sounded off on the global frequency.

“Attention all units! Converge on the Washington Monument! Eagle-01 has been captured and hostiles are in possession of classified material!” His voice rang out. Before a low click signaled his switch to their local frequency.

“Silver-02! Gold Team and I are coming through! Clear a path and follow after! Any Rangers who think they can keep up are welcome to join our sprint!” He called. Panting a bit over the line.

April and the three team leads immediately moved to the windows. Throwing open the locks and pulling their windows upward. April then turned to the nearest Rangers.

“You heard Agent Knight! Our team is going to break off and engage the monument! You’re welcome to join!” She called. But it seemed they had already made up their minds. The men filing out the nearest window before regrouping outside. All eyes waiting for the agents to move out.

They didn’t have to wait long. As the pounding of boots on the tiled floor echoed behind April. She didn’t see so much as felt Gold Team sprint by. Jason clearing the low wall like an Olympic hurdler. While Gold Team mantled over behind him. Each of them placing a hand on the windowsill as they leapt. Lorne was the next out the window with April following closely behind.

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Jason sprinted as fast as his body would allow. Creating a bit of distance between him and Simmons behind him. Before he keyed back to Waller.

“How do they have the elements? I thought they would have been transported to a research facility weeks ago.” He asked.

“They were. Research Facility Alpha Foxtrot is an underground facility within the tunnels that run underneath Washington D.C. We felt it offered the best security and secrecy at the time. That thinking was clearly incorrect however.” Waller answered. Her voice turning into a low growl by the end.

“Then the above ground attack was a distraction. So, Blood could slink through the tunnels without interference. But how did he know where they were and, more importantly, where the Presidential Bunker is?” Jason questioned. Arms pumping as he ran.

“I don’t know. But I’m going to find out.” Waller actually snarled. Which brought a small smirk to his lips. Knowing that the woman was probably already planning which politicians to dig into. Slade had once mentioned she reminded him a bit of a German Shepard. Fiercely loyal to her country and unrelenting in its protection.

“Keep me posted.” Jason radioed. Before switching back to the local frequency.

A flash of light pulled his attention away from his sprint for a moment. With his eyes quickly flicking to the source of the flash. Only to see Vicki and her camera guy filming him. Him and his agents, who had quickly pulled away from the rest of the group. Forming back into loose fireteams behind him. He mentally shook his head before returning to the task at hand. Vicki was future Jason’s problem………or Waller’s.

A second stray thought passed through his mind. Where did Diana get off to? Only to have that question answered by a flash of red and blue to his left. The Amazon flying off towards one of the surrounding buildings. Most likely trying to regroup with her own team and strategize. Which was none of Jason’s concern.

So, he raced on. Boots digging into the ground beneath him, while the mid-morning sun blazed overhead. Up ahead, the black fence and gate loomed. Blocking both his and his agents' path. Activating his radio again. He called out.

“Rangers?!”

“Sir?!” A younger voice responded. Puffing and huffing with the exertion of a full out sprint in full battle gear.

“See that Gate?!” Jason directed.

“Sir, yes, Sir!” The voice answered.

“I don’t want to.” Jason finished. Allowing the man time to understand his order.

Which didn’t take long. As a large, loud hiss rang out somewhere behind him. With a trail of smoke soon flying by him and impacting the gate. Blowing the two metal gates apart and clearing a path through.

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Three Minutes Earlier

Bruce dove to his right while unleashing a burst of three batarangs. The blades finding new homes in the terrorist’s weapons. Jamming their guns and rendering them harmless.

Moving quickly, he closed in on the first man. Sending a Superman punch into the stunned man and knocking him out cold. He then pivoted and leapt. Sending a flying jump kick into the second woman. Cracking her mask and sending her to the ground. The final terrorist was dropped with an elbow to the temple.

Bruce then paused to take in the situation. He was in a large open office. Desks and chairs were completely scattered about due to the ongoing fight. Bodies littering the rows between. Some victims of the terrorist’s takeover, others the terrorists themselves. Claimed in the firefight that Bruce had interrupted.

A shuffling of paper drew his attention across the room. A team of Rangers rushing into the room and making their way towards him. Rifles panning around the room. Searching for additional targets. Before they surrounded him. Two soldiers holding their sights on him, while three of their team zip tied the terrorists on the ground.

“Clear!” Shouted one of the soldiers.

With the team around him dropping their weapons into ready positions. But still scanning the surrounding room for any additional threats. Then one of the soldiers directed his attention to Batman.

“Your super pals are escorting civilians towards Du Pont Circle. I suggest you join them and clear the area.” He stated coldly. Glaring at the white slits of Batman’s cowl.

“No.” Batman growled. Cause a few of the soldiers to shift. Now eyeing both him and the surrounding room.

The soldier huffed for a second before changing tactics. “We appreciate your team’s efforts in rescuing civilians……unprompted. But we aren’t the GCPD and you interfering with our firefights is likely to end up with someone injured. Superpowers or not. You’re throwing off our tactics and accuracy as we have to account for your team’s proclivity to throw themselves into CQC. So……call your team and have them focus only on civilian rescue…… Let us do our job.”

“We can’t stand-by and allow more deaths. Not if we can prevent it.” Batman returned. Eyes narrowing at the soldier.

“This is war Bats! They don’t deploy us for any other reason!” Another soldier called out. Crouched over one of the zip tied terrorists.

But before Bruce could respond, a crash of broken glass erupted behind him. Causing both him and the Rangers to spin towards it. Rifles raised and batarang held high. As Diana flew in, the clank of her armored boots announcing her landing.

“Batman! Brother Blood has abducted the President! We must go!” She said as she strode forth. The Rangers quickly lowered their weapons again and tried to confirm on their radios. Before half of them rushed towards the exits. Leaving the remaining troops to police their new prisoners.

“Brother Blood has the President. Is there anyone available for intercept?” Bruce growled into his radio. As Diana looped her arm under his and took off again. Flying through the window and into the light of the afternoon.

“I’m busy at the Smithsonian. There are a lot of civilians stuck in the rubble and rooms.” The Flash radioed back. As Barry dropped another mother and child off behind the front lines.

“Hawkwoman and I are escorting a group of school children to Du Pont Circle from the White House.” John radioed. Scanning the surrounding buildings for an ambush.

“J’onn and I are busy clearing the surrounding buildings. Nightwing also radioed that the Titans and Young Justice are about thirty minutes out. I think it’s up to you and Diana for now.” Clark answered. Crushing a Browning 50. Cal to the surprise of the surrounding cult members.

“Understood.” Bruce answered. Before glancing around. Watching as smoke from destroyed cars slowly filtered into the sky. With people rushing between the open lanes. Like ants in a colony. A large explosion caused Bruce to snap his head to his right.

He watched as one of the gates around the White House blew open. Eleven onyx clad soldiers rushing through the new opening with a team of Rangers following.

“Who are they?” He growled at Diana. While his glare remained fixed on the lead agent. Who was spiriting between the cars and starting up the hill.

“I believe that they are Agent Knight’s men.” Diana tried to answer neutrally.

“Where did they come from and what do you know?” Bruce asked. His mind was already pulling on what he knew of the elusive agent. Which was painting a grim picture, especially if they were trained by Slade as well. It seemed Slade was recruiting another team.

“They were in the White House. As for what I know, I don’t know much more than you do. Other than that, they are extremely well trained. Functioning as a collective whole rather than individual roles.” Diana answered. “It reminds me of you and your Robins.”

Bruce grunted in response as he watched small flashes begin to appear from the top of the hill and the agents. As the two sides began their firefight.

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“Concentrate fire! Cobalt, move right! Maroon, left! Gold, follow me!” Jason called. Feeling the tell-tale pings of bullets bouncing off his armor as he ran. Pistol held in a double handed grip as he concentrated on hitting the LMG team in front of him. His rounds bouncing off the low wall that surrounded the monument, before a splash of red announced a hit.

Suddenly a bright red beam raced by him. Hitting a taxi that two rangers were using as cover and igniting the fuel held within. Engulfing the Rangers in a fireball.

“Hostiles have laser weaponry! Prioritize targets!” Jason ordered. Concentrating his own fire on the position he saw the laser appear from. Causing the cult member to duck behind his cover. Simmons immediately followed his lead. Laying down suppressing fire while racing up the hill behind him. McCoy and Hopkins trailed behind April. The three agents working as one with overlapping fields of fire.

With another burst of speed, Jason rushed forward. Surprising two cult members who had revealed themselves to send more fire towards the Rangers. Jason’s hands worked on autopilot. Firing a dual series of two round bursts. The bullets finding new homes in the chest and heads of the unfortunate members. Before he dropped into a slide. Which ended with him crouched against the low wall and his team falling in beside him. He ejected his pistol magazine, finding it to be empty. He started to reach for an extra, before he remembered he had used up his other mags in the White House and on the run up the hill.

Without another thought, he emerged from behind his cover and threw the pistol like a batarang. Hitting a running cult member dead center of their face and crushing their mask. As the projectile destroyed the woman’s nose and upper jaw and sent the bone fragments upwards. Killing her instantly. Jason ducked back down as another volley of fire pelted his position.

“I’m out!” He called while drawing his sword.

“We can see that.” April answered dryly. While she sent a few bursts over their cover, with answering screams announcing successful hits. “They’re running out of men.”

Jason nodded before activating his radio, “Cobalt, Maroon, sitrep!”

“One sec lad!” Lorne answered. The roar of his rifle echoing in the background before what sounded like Lorne ducking back down. “We’ve cleared out most of the resistance around our cover. We’re go for the final push.”

“Same for Cobalt. We’re only seeing about five remaining guards and the President.” Sierra said.

“Alright then, converge.” Jason ordered. Leaping across the low wall with his team behind him. Who all snapped their rifles towards the six remaining figures. Who were all gathered around the President. Who was on his knees with Sebastain Blood holding a ceremonial knife to his throat, the elements slowly rotating in the hilt. The ground around them littered with the dead and dying.

“Ahhh. Nemesis. So good to make your acquaintance. And Agent Knight…….. You have been a thorn in our side for a while now.” Sebastian drawled. A grin plastered on his face as he pressed the blade closer to President Jackson’s throat.

“Drop the knife!” Jason yelled. Shooting a glance to his left and right. As both Maroon and Cobalt closed in on the fanatic.

“Now agent. That’s not how this works. You ask what my demands are, I give you something crazy or impossible, and you try your best to talk down.” Sebastian said. His voice light and mirthful.

“We missed that training. You have five seconds to drop the knife.” Jason answered. His team activating their laser sights so he can tell who had the best shot. Before Sebastian started laughing.

“Now, now agent. I have the trump card. I’d suggest you lower your weapons.” Sebastain taunted. Which only caused the agents to raise their rifles higher and focus in on their shots.

Jason stared the man down. Going through all his options. His best plan would be to rush forward and hope he could cover the President before Sebastain slit his throat or his agents shot the members. But there was no way for him to cover the distance in time. His next option would be to hurl his sword at Sebastian and hope the man didn’t pull the President into the path of the blade. But it left a lot of variables up in the air. Both were bad options.

But then, he caught a glimpse of black, red, and blue flying towards him. From behind Sebastian. He squinted and vaguely made out the forms of Batman and Wonder Woman hurtling towards him. With Batman holding a grapple at the ready. He quickly put together what Bruce was trying to do and decided to humor the man.

“Alright Blood. What are your demands?” Jason asked.

Sebastian opened his mouth to begin his speech. His main points already readied in his mind. Which would culminate in his ascension to godhood. With the sacrifice of the President and his loyal followers. He was interrupted though, by a gust of wind rushing above him. Before a black line ending in a forked claw shot down in front of him. Grabbing the belt of President Jackson and pulling him up and away. Leaving Sebastian a gaping mess for one second. Before he turned and drove the blade into the heart of the nearest cult member.

“Fire!” Jason ordered. A wave of bullets answering his call. As his team unloaded their weapons on the stunned cult. Reducing them to red ribbons and mangled flesh.

“Cease fire!” Jason called. As his team’s fire tapered off. Before shifting their gazes to the surrounding battlefield. Looking for any remaining opponents.

“Clear!” One of the agents announced. Which was swiftly mirrored by his teammates. As they slowly began to lower their weapons. Allowing for a moment to gain their bearings. With Jason keying his radio to Waller.

But before he could begin to speak, he noticed the pile of cult members beginning to pulse. The tangled mess of flesh beating slowly like a heart. As red energy began to build. With bones and flesh slowly starting to slide towards the center of the pile. As if drawn to a black hole within. It wasn’t long until the first bone snapped. Causing all the agents to snap back towards the pile. Rifles trained and readied.

“Agent Knight! Report! Do you have the President?!” Waller yelled into his ear.

But Jason was too busy raising his sword and calling upon the All Blades. Pressing some of their energy into the promethium blade. Hoping that the All Blades would be considered another form of energy. HIs team began to slowly spread out around him in the meantime. Not wanting to be clustered should this mass explode.

Jason was about to respond to Waller, when the mass of flesh expanded suddenly. Looking like a large red bubble. Before, just as suddenly, collapsing in on itself. Leaving behind a seven-foot red figure. With jet black medieval armor and cape. A large, gray, bonelike structure adorning its head, like a crown. The figure sucked in a breath. Before expelling what looked like a small trail of smoke. As if his insides were composed of fire.

The figure’s gaze then snapped to Jason. Two large red and orange orbs, backlit by fire, piercing his soul. Before the figure was in front of him. Batting away his sword and pulling him up by his neck.

It then spoke in a distorted, deep growl. “For the Blood.”

Before rearing back and launching Jason away. Who could only watch as the ground below him got further and further away. Only to be stopped by the shattering of glass and stone around him. His body bounced off the stone ceiling. Cracking the stonework which proceeded to land on top of his still form. As Jason blacked out from the impact.

Chapter 34: Check

Chapter Text

White House

“This is Saber-1, preceding with breach of The Oval Office. How copy?”

“Red Crown copies all.”

Pvt. Titus hefted his shotgun and turned to the men behind him. The five man team all stacked against the door. With a nod from his captain, he blew apart the hinges on the Oval Office’s door. Before rearing back and leveling a hard kick forward. Sending the door crashing into the room. Following after it with his shotgun raised.

Immediately he was drowned in the stench of decay and rot. All around them were the remains of the Secret Service team and civilians unlucky enough to be in the White House at the time of the assault. Limp bodies piled on top of one another without any care, and their blood pooling into the carpet.

“Dios mio.” Pvt. Sanchez muttered behind him. His face gaping at the horror show they had just walked into. Next to him, Pvt. Peterson was box breathing. Trying to keep his lunch down.

“Red Crown, this is Saber-1. The Oval Office is clear but we’re going to need a coroner here. We’ve located the missing bodies of the protection detail and some civilians. Over.” Captain Carter radioed in, turning away from the mess and looking out towards the hall.

“Roger Saber-1. Mark it for clean-up and…….”

Titus had tuned out the radio. His attention being drawn to a slight bit of movement within the pile. He watched as one of the stacked bodies began to slowly convulse. Writhing as if the body was connected to electricity. He numbly stared as the convulsing got worse. Eventually leading to the body destabilizing the stack and falling to the blue carpet below. Instantly, the entire Ranger squad and snapped to the writhing mass and had their sights trained on it.

“Hold fire! Hold fire, it's a survivor!” Captain Carter ordered. Despite still having his own weapon trained on the body. Which was now trying to stand. Its legs unbalanced and seemingly shaky. Titus waited as the body straightened. Now being able to tell it was a scrawny man. Dressed in a dark gray suit with black undershirt. A press badge dangling around his next. The man moaned and steadied himself using a nearby stack of bodies.

“Sir? I need you to sit back down. I’ll have a medic for you in short order, but I need you to sit back down.” Captain Carter soothed. Thinking that the man was traumatized and probably in shock. But the man didn’t so much as react to his voice. Instead, his breathing became more rapid and deep. As if the man had just run a marathon.

“Sir?! I need you to sit back down, now!” Carter ordered. Raising his voice and utilizing his commanding tone.
The hunched over man snapped his gaze to the captain. His eyes vacant and jaw slack. As if he had just realized he wasn’t alone in the room. He swept his stare over the five of them, before he twitched again. This time eliciting a loud crack, which was joined by a series of quieter cracks and tears. As the man contorted in on himself.

The team watched on as large scythe-like bone growths erupted from his palms and his jaw split right down the center. His teeth sharpened and tongue grew exponentially as it whipped around his now bisected jawbone. His eyes, a once deep brown, turned yellow before red colored the area around the iris. With a final snap, the man hunched over. Crossing his arms across his chest as if holding himself together. Before lurching upwards and emitting a howl that could never have come from a human. As his chest burst open. Revealing three sharp, pincer-like ribs snapping at them. As if hungry for food. The man then lunged forward. Eyes filled with hate and primal fury.

Titus reacted on instinct, unleashing a 12g round straight into the abmination’s face. Blasting apart its skull and causing the body to land with a limp, wet thud. Around him, his squad was wide eyed at the nightmare they just witnessed. As they all looked on before whipping around to one another. As if asking if that had just really happened.

Unfortunately, their thoughts were quickly answered. As the piles of bodies all began to convulse and writhe around them. Snaps and cracks filling the room as bodies hunched and sagged with their transformation.

Captain Carter quickly and quietly signaled the team to fall back. Each man backing slowly towards the door, rifles leveled on the broken bodies in front of them. As the team came together near the door, the first three of the abominations all stood. Heads slowly scanning the room around them as their kin transformed before landing on the squad of Rangers at the door. The two groups stared at one another for what seemed like an eternity in Titus’ mind, before the click of his shotgun chambering a round broke the silence. The three undead eliciting another unholy wail in response. With Pvt. Sanchez verbalizing the team’s collective thought to the room.

“f*ck this!”

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Washington Monument

April dodged another swipe from the creature that had once been one of Blood’s guards. Pivoting low and drawing one of her axes along its stomach. Drawing a howl of pain from the creature. She then flipped her hand around and lashed out with a backwards swipe to the creature’s neck. Cutting cleanly through and decapitating the monstrosity.

Meanwhile, Blood watched on. His newly raised minions tearing into the military around him. Initially, the soldiers had tried to drown him in rifle fire. Their righteous anger burning hot due to his actions against their leader. But, their rounds did little more than redecorate the stone and grass around him. As the bullets ricocheted and flattened against his new form. Then with a wave of his hand, his loyal followers were returned to him. His new abilities corrupting their corpses with new forms. Suited for their purpose of the wholesale slaughter of the soldiers around him. While he watched on and willed his body to grow. Afterall, he was a god now and it would not do for him to remain at the same level of those he wished to conquer. With that thought he grew to an imposing fifteen feet. A large, satisfied smirk carved on his face.

April ignored the large red demon for now. Instead, focusing on the abominations that had crawled out of hell to rain death and destruction on them. She rolled backwards and used her momentum to send herself flying. Landing on her back next to Simmons’ team, before jumping back to her feet.

“McCoy! I need a status on Knight.” April ordered. Before drawing her pistol in her left hand and pelting the oncoming tide of horrors. Next to her, Simmons crouched and switched his rifle to fully automatic. Unleashing controlled bursts into each creature until it fell or he had to switch mags. McCoy moved and settled behind the two of them. Pulling up her holo gauntlet and cycling through the team’s statuses. She quickly tapped Jason’s callsign and scrolled through his suit’s data.

“Knight is still alive, but his readings show he’s incapacitated!” McCoy answered before scrolling further. “Hold on! His suit just pinged again! I’m showing an increase in heart rate and brain activity!”

April only nodded in response. As she was too focused on keeping her and her team alive as she dodged another swipe. This time she crouched and hunched her upper body forward. While pointing her pistol skyward and unleashing a round. Which crashed through the skull of the abomination as it finished its strike. Its body now falling limply to the ground. McCoy then rushed forward and fired over her crouched form. Dropping another group of horrors.

Then, Jason’s voice filled her comm, “Agent Wolf……this is Agent Knight, do you read?”

“This is Agent Wolf, I read you Knight. What is your current status?” April asked before being distracted by a rumble and the ground shaking. Turning in time to see Superman land a few blows against the new demon god. Who retaliated with a savage punch. Sending the man of steel skyward, with the demon hot on his heels.

“Green. What’s the situation?” Jason asked through the comm. It was only the years of military training and April’s understanding that the team needed a strong leader that she didn’t call him out on his injuries. She knows that he’s likely not “green” and is probably trying to undersell his current condition.

“Blood has somehow figured out a way to raise the dead. We’re currently engaged below you, but I don’t know how long we can hold this position. The Rangers are getting cut up pretty badly and we’re going to be running low on ammo soon.” April reported. While raising her pistol at another undead that had tried to flank them. Her three round burst blew its head clean off.

“Understood.” Jason gritted out. Before a groan echoed through her comm. Along with some sort of scraping sound. “Tell the team to fall back and establish a parameter. Where’s the big guy?” He continued. Now sounding a bit winded through the line.

“He’s off fighting Superman. The boy scout all but crashed to earth on top of him and then took their little fight to the sky.”

“Ok, I need you to get someone to get us into contact with the JLA. I want that bastard under the monument or as close as we can get him.” Jason ordered.

April turned to her team and pulled up the most recent satellite feed surrounding DC. Gold, Maroon, and Cobalt teams all appearing as little triangles in the overlay. She quickly glanced at each team’s location and decided that Cobalt was the furthest away from the fighting, and thus would be able to break off.

“Cobalt! Break off and get me into contact with the JLA! I don’t care if we have to use smoke signals! Get it done!” April ordered. With Sierra’s light flashing green in confirmation a second later.

April then radioed Jason, “Cobalt is moving to get us a line. Maroon and Gold are currently engaged.”

“Understood……… April, I need you to break off from them and find that sword I had.” Jason said. Sounding as unhappy with the order as April was to follow it.

“No! No way! I’m not just going to abandon the team to go lone wolf for your sword Knight!” April protested. A bit incredulous that Jason would give such an order. Never once in all her years of working with him and Rose had he seemed sentimental about his gear.

“April…… that sword is one of two things right now that can kill the bastard. You're our best CQC specialist and I need you to get that sword. Order Gold to link up with Maroon and then go hunting. Radio me back when you have it.” Jason explained before cutting the line.

With a huff, April turned to Simmons. “Fall back. Link up with Maroon and try to keep as many people alive as you can.”

“And where are you going? I doubt there’s any way for you to get up to Knight right now. The monument has seen better days.” Simmons observed, and he was right. Large holes and cracks dotted the Washington Monument. Whether from the demon or from the attack earlier in the day it was impossible to say.

April shook her head and turned towards the pavilion. “He wants me to find his sword and has Cobalt looking for a way to contact the JLA.”

Simmons responded with a low hmm before sparing his team a quick glance. He could see that McCoy was unhappy with the orders and Hopkins looked like he was itching to charge straight into the pavilion. With a shake of his head he turned back to April.

“I’ll pull Gold back. But! If I hear anything I don’t like, I’ll have Maroon and Gold team sweep in. Regardless of the orders.” Simmons said with a quick tilt of his head. Ordering his team towards Maroon’s position and taking off himself. Not giving April a chance to respond and leaving her alone at the top of the hill.

She then turned and started jogging towards the pavilion. Activating her cloak and allowing a stray thought to pass through her mind.

“It's not even April and I’m on an easter egg hunt.”

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Washington Monument - Ten Minutes Later

April scrambled from body to body. Shoving and flipping them over in her search for the sword. She didn’t think it'd have gone that far away when Blood had batted Jason away, but it was proving difficult to find. Even more so when she had to pause her search to dispatch another zombie trying to eviscerate her.

With a nudge, she flipped another corpse over to reveal the blood soaked concrete underneath them. With a low growl, April spun around and scanned the pavilion again. Coming away without any sort of clue or indication where the sword could have gone. If they survived this, she was going to demand Jason put a tracker on it. If it was so important.

Suddenly a new voice interrupted her thoughts.

“This is Batman of the JLA. I have been given this channel and have been told you have a plan to deal with the demon attack.” The now identified voice of Batman ground out. Sounding like he had eaten a barrel of gravel.

“I read you Batman, and yes we have a plan.” Jason responded robotically. In a tone that April hadn’t heard from him before.

“Identify yourself!” Batman growled. Which would frighten lesser men, but was just a normal tone to April and the agents. After having had to train with Slade and deal with Jason’s interrogation methods.

“Agent Knight - 01. Me and my team have a plan to deal with Blood, but I need your team to bring him back to the Washington Monument.” Jason explained after a moment.

“And why should we trust you? You and your team are complete unknowns.” Batman asked. Which in April’s opinion was a fair question. She wouldn’t place any sort of trust in them either in his position. Especially after the last few months of political back and forth with the JLA and Government.

“Look, I don’t need you to trust me. I just need you to get the bastard to the Washington Monument. And unless you have Constantine or Zatanna on speed dial, you’re stuck with us until the Titans get here. So……why don’t we try something proactive in the meantime. Plus, if this doesn’t work it's not your team on the line.” Jason pointed out. Still sounding robotic and….wrong to April’s ears.

The line went silent for ten seconds. Then twenty. Then thirty. After about a minute, Batman’s voice returned to the line,

“Very well. I’ll have my team pull him back to the monument. But if you hurt my team…” Batman began to threaten. Only to have Jason cut him off.

“With everything going on right now that’s what you're concerned about?! Fine! I promise I don’t give a sh*t about your team and they'll be completely safe! Happy?! I know I am!” Jason snarled in his distorted voice before cutting the line. Another uncharacteristic thing for him to do. April knows he can be snarky at times, but over the radio he was normally professional with a joke or two thrown in for levity. It wasn’t like him to randomly lash out like that.

Shaking that thought away. April returned to her task. Moving towards the grass and hill. As she approached she saw a thin black shadow laying in the grass between two dead bodies. With a burst of speed and hope, she raced over to the corpses. Sliding in beside them and pulling what she recognized as Jason’s sword free. With a quick flick of her eyes, she opened a private channel to Jason.

“Knight! I have your sword! What’s the play?” She asked.

A second later, she heard the tail end of a sigh ring through the comm. “Perfect. Near the hilt there’s a switch. I need you to flick it and tell me what color the blade turns.” Jason directed.

Scanning the blade, April found and flipped the switch. The blade instantly becoming hotter and turning a dull copper and red color. “I’m seeing a copper-like color mixed with deep reds.” She radioed.

“Good. Now turn it off again…….. What I need you to do is wait for an opening. If I don’t outright kill Blood when he comes back, I need you to finish the job. Once turned on that blade will cut through anything. You need to aim for his heart and you can’t let anything stand in the way of that…. Understood?!” Jason demanded.

For a second April faltered. “Knight……. I… what if….”

“Wolf, you can’t let anything stand in your way. Do you understand?” Jason asked calmly and firmly.

April paused and took in the scene around her. Bodies piled in the streets with smoke rising into the sky from the broken buildings and structures surrounding her. The distant sounds of gunfire and screaming echoing through the air. Finally, the boom of heavy ordinance going off somewhere in the distance. With a grim frown and huff, April stood.

“Understood.”

Chapter 35: Mate

Chapter Text

Washington Monument

Jason stared out at the smoke and rubble of what had been the crown of America. Gunfire echoed in the distance with the pop of explosions. Further out, he could see smoke rising from the many museums that lined the center drive of DC. Cars were overturned or left as smoking ruins along the roads.

He leaned his weight against the jagged wall of concrete and rebar that lined the new hole in the monument. Behind him was a pile of stone and metal which he had just had to dig his way out of. He tentatively rotated his left shoulder as he focused on his breathing. Feeling the pain of one or two cracked ribs and some sort of tear in his shoulder. His legs had fared better, but he was still sporting a limp as he all but stumbled to his new position.

From within his helmet, a small dribble of blood flowed down the right side of his face. His HUD flickered and was officially out of commission, in addition to his remaining arm blade. Which was sheathed much like its partner. His overall suit status would probably be categorized as yellow. With most of its functions out of commission. But to Jason, it was still green to go, along with the man himself. He’s been hurt far worse and still carried on.

He began to fumble around his belt and his many pouches. Looking for any sort of remaining knife or sharp object. His hand left him wanting though as each and every crevice was empty. With a sigh, he turned back to the rubble. Looking through the twisted and crumbling mass for something he could use. Until he spotted a small piece of rebar that had snapped under his landing. Leaving behind an eight inch piece of metal with a sharpened end. He turned and began his hobble. His left leg flaring in irritation with every step.

He then stooped down and grabbed his new weapon. Tilting it back and forth in his hand as he examined it. He then called upon the All Blades. Materializing the hilt and start of the blade over the piece of metal. Before cutting off its extension early. Leaving him with a knife-sized blade overlapping the rebar.

With a nod, he dematerialized the All Blade and spun back to the hole. Rotating the rebar in his hand into a reverse grip. Having made his way back to the ledge, he placed his right hand against some rebar that extended from the jagged hole. Before settling back into his watch, waiting for Blood’s return.

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In the skies above DC

Clark smashed his fist into Blood’s face. Knocking the pretend god across the sky in a streak of black. Before he followed after.

Blood rolled backwards. Re-centering himself and slowing his momentum. Then, with a crack, he flew right back at the man of steel. Each landing a blow to their opposite’s face and sending them careening into the buildings below.

Clark crashed through multiple panes of glass and metal. Cratering the tile underneath him with his landing and sending up a puff of smoke. Which cleared away quickly with the breeze from the newly open skylight. With a groan, he rolled to his stomach and pushed himself to his feet. Finally taking in the surrounding room, which was covered in old rockets and destroyed planes.

“Superman, what is your status?” Bruce’s gruff voice called out.

Throwing a hand up to his ear and turning towards the glass door, Clark answered. “Superman here. Blood just knocked me into the National Air and Space Museum.” As he spoke he caught his reflection in one of the surrounding TV’s. Noticing a trail of blood emerging from his nose, which he wiped away with the back of his sleeve.

“Where’s Blood?” Bruce asked.

“Probably in the National Gallery of Art. What’s the situation out there?” Clark answered and asked.

“The army is currently working to reestablish their perimeters and put down the undead. The President has been secured and is with John at Du Pont Circle. Everyone else is working to save civilians and the Titans are still ten minutes out.” Bruce rattled off.

Clark huffed out a breath. “And Constantine or Zatanna?”

“Zatanna is on her way but needs to stop for Doctor Fate and Constantine…….we haven’t been able to make contact.”

“Great ....so we don’t have any way to stop Blood until Raven gets here.” Clark filled in.

The line went strangely silent. Which meant one of two things. One, Bruce was about to say something Clark wouldn’t like or, two, Bruce was going to say something he didn’t like.

“We have been given…….a way to potentially stop Blood.” Bruce said. The disapproval was clear in his tone.

“Ooookkkk.” Clark drew out. Waiting for his friend to explain.

“Diana has been in contact with a group following Agent Knight and they just contacted me. They claim they have a plan to deal with Blood, but we need to get him back to the Washington Monument.” Bruce laid out.

Clark paused in thought. “What is your concern?”

“We know nothing about this group, other than that their leader is highly lethal. Also, every time we’ve interacted with the agent..... it comes back to bite us.”

Clark sighed at that. It wasn’t that he disagreed with Bruce. The last few months have been some of the most turbulent of the JLA's history. But right here, right now. People needed help, and if that meant another PR nightmare……..the JLA would grit their teeth and bare it.

“We can’t wait though, Bruce. Every second we waste is another person dead.” Clark answered before waiting for Bruce’s response.

“The civilians have already been cleared out between you and the monument. I’ll have Diana on stand-by if you need her.” Bruce said. Not fully giving Clark his support, but still letting him know he had his back.

“Alright. Tell whoever you’re talking to that I’ll be in-bound with Blood in a few moments.” Clark said. Taking to the sky again and heading towards the National Gallery of Art.

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Sebastian smashed through the front of the museum. Destroying multiple pillars and windows, before he landed in a slide. Carving a trench into the earth and leaving small pillars of flames within. Before looking up at the blue boy scout floating above him.

“Stand down Blood.” Superman ordered. His eyes glowing red.

Sebastian just stared. A smirk growing on his lips before it turned into a chuckle. Which evolved into a full on laugh. The god internally mocking the weak intimidation display.

“A man does not take orders from ants, just as I will not take orders from you.” He chuckled, snapping his fingers and materializing two large fireballs in his hands.

Clark waited for one second before charging forward. Blood matched his rush with equal fervor, a smirk coloring his face and eyes screaming bloodlust. The two met with a crash. Clark threw a right hook while Blood returned with a left uppercut. Snapping Blood’s head to the right and blasting the air from Clark’s lungs respectively.

The heavy weights then immediately recovered. Clark flying forward and unleashing a six punch combo. That threw Blood to his left and right as Clark's hits landed. Before Blood was thrown back into grass between the two museums with the final blow. He slid along the ground, digging another trench below him as he dug in his feet.

Eventually, he came to a stop again and re-centered herself again. Planting his feet and whipping his head back up. As Clark flew towards him again. One arm outstretched and the other held back in a fist. With a growl, Blood threw his hands into the earth beneath him. The dirt turning a glowing red and orange under his magic, as it raced towards the man of steel. Only to burst forth in a tower of fire beneath Clark. Launching the surprised hero into the sky. Blood leaping after. A trail of smoke following his jump.

Clark spun uncontrollably as he was sent upwards. Flailing his arms and legs to regain his bearings. Only to be smashed back to earth by Blood with a double fist hammer punch. The earth cratering underneath him once more and sending up a cloud of dirt and concrete as he landed on his stomach. But, unfortunately, he wasn’t given any pause. Blood rocketing towards him with a roar.

Clark moved quickly. Digging his right foot into the ground and pushing off. Sending him flying forward and away as Blood smashed into the ground behind him. Another burst of dirt flying skyward. Blood then watched as Clark flew away. Picking up speed before looping around on himself. Now flying directly back towards him. He crossed his forearms across his chest. Expecting another hook or jab.

Which was why he was caught off guard when Clark dipped low a few feet before making impact. The man of steel disappearing from sight, before a wave of pain shot forth from his jaw. As Clark landed an uppercut. Sending the pretend god back into the sky again.

Clark then crouched low like he was readying for a massive leap. His knees bent and small stones levitating slightly near his boots. Before he shot upwards. Following after the demon and appearing next to the apex of his flight. This time smashing his fist into the god’s chest in an appropriately named superman punch. Blood flying away again with a surprised and angry roar.

Blood flailed around. Arms and legs kicking out to regain his center and prepare his own strike against Clark. Eventually, this flailing paid off as the demon came to an abrupt stop. His cape wrapping around his head like a shroud as gravity caught up with him. He slowly spun. Righting himself and looking around for Clark.

He didn’t need to look far. The man of steel blurred towards him. A streak of red and blue being the only sign of the hero as he connected once again with Blood’s chest. Only this time it was two fists. Sending him reeling again, before he smashed to earth. Bricks and concrete flying away from him and leaving him staring up at a blue sky and white pillar.

Xxxxxxxxxx

At the top of the Washington Monument

Jason rocked back and forth. Trying to regain his balance as the shockwave of Blood’s landing shook the tower. His right hand locked in a white knuckle grip on the rebar. As he widened his stance and hoped that the tower wouldn’t collapse. It would be unfortunate to have his plan undone because the tower fell out from underneath him.

He waited as the floor settled and the dust slowly began to clear below him. He leaned forward. Finally catching sight of Blood in the crater below. His legs and arms sprawled out in front of him like he had landed in a dentist chair. The demon seemed to be slightly dazed, but quickly shook this off. Slowly beginning to rise and float upwards. Retaking what he must have thought to be a godly stance. Floating a few feet off the ground and pulling out two more fireballs.

Jason then noticed a blur of red and blue flying towards the tower base.

“This is Superman. I have Blood at the base of the Washington Monument.” Clark broadcasted through Jason’s communicator. “What’s the plan now?”

Jason moved across the jagged ledge. Getting as close as he could to overlooking Blood below him. He then lowered himself into a low crouch. His mind going through all the details and calculations needed to make this work.

“This is Agent Knight-01. Keep him talking and wait for my signal.” Jason ordered. Before he began to call upon the pit. Breathing harder and faster, and psyching himself up. Adrenaline flooded his system, causing a pulsing haze of red and green to surround his vision. He passed the rebar from his left to his right hand. Ignoring whatever Blood was saying over Clark’s open line.

Then, with a final wry thought of, “So much for saying I wouldn’t do anything stupid again.” Jason leapt into the open air of a Washington afternoon.

xxxxxxxxxx

At the base of the Washington Monument - a few minutes earlier.

Clark came to an abrupt stop in front of Blood. Who was once again floating and holding two fireballs. His go to intimidation move Clark decided. The two eyed one other before Clark quietly radioed his comms.

“This is Superman. I have Blood at the base of the Washington Monument. What’s the plan now?” he asked. Hoping that the plan was already in motion.

“This is Agent Knight-01. Keep him talking and wait for my signal.” A distorted voice answered. Sounding damaged if the scratching and cutting surrounding the voice was any indication.

“I tire of this farce, ant! Now……… kneel before your new god!” Blood gloated. His eyes igniting in a red fire and increasing the flames in his palms.

“You’re delusional Blood. You know you can’t win. Surrender now and I can persuade the President to not charge you with Treason.” Clark answered.

“Treason?!” Blood laughed. “I have transcended the nature of nations and countries! I have become a god! And I shall seal my ascension by stringing up the President alongside you and the rest of the JLA’s flayed corpses on the columns of the Lincoln Monument! Before I repurpose it as my new throne!” He purred.

“That’s not going to happen.” Clark growled back. Floating upwards and preparing to launch himself forward. Blood’s grin widening in response.

But then, a black blur raced by behind Blood. Who screamed in pain and began to thrash. Trying to throw off whatever had landed on him. He spun. Reaching behind him and revealing a black, armored figure clinging to his back. A red, charred line running down at an angle on his back and ending with the outstretched arm of the figure.

Upon closer look, Clark realized he recognized the armored figure. He was more scratched and glowing brighter than Clark had ever seen before. But his build was unmistakable. Agent Knight was clinging to the back of Blood and somehow hurting the false god.

xxxxxxxxxx

Blood spun again. Thrashing around like a feral animal and trying to shake loose Jason’s impromptu blade. Jason waited and latched on with all his strength. Wrapping his left hand around a strap holding some of Blood’s chest armor and his right locked on the piece of rebar jammed into his side.

Blood flailed back and forth. Before stilling and beginning to fly upwards. His back to the monument and eyes glaring a hole in Clark. Jason could already see his next move. It was entirely predictable and he had long ago expected it.

As the demon snarled. Jason ripped his blade free and released the strap. Letting himself fall away as Blood rocketed backwards. Smashing into the monument to no effect as Jason was no longer clinging to him. Instead he had dropped and grabbed Blood’s left foot as he fell. Redirecting the momentum of his abrupt stop to swing his right arm upwards. Driving the rebar into Blood’s calf. To no reaction from the man himself, until Jason drew upon the All Blades. Limiting the magic to the blade within the calf and drawing forth a pained scream from Blood.

Jason then clambered upwards. Using the rebar as a handhold and snatching Blood's left arm as it passed by. Blood's arm pulled him upwards and freed the rebar at the same time. Jason used this oportunity to drive the rebar into Blood’s left shoulder. Repeating his climbing technique and bracing his legs around Blood’s left arm.

This time, he didn’t use the All Blades until he had successfully braced himself on the god’s side. He pulled the metal free before stabbing back down. Jabbing the rebar into Blood’s back and shoulder repeatedly. Leaving behind charred gashes and holes in the Demon’s side.

By now, Blood had taken notice of his new passenger. His right arm lashing out towards the agent with a pained growl. Jason quickly moved again. Throwing himself to his right and pulling out the rebar. As Blood’s hand smashed down on his left shoulder. Jason drove the rebar back into Blade's back and switched hands, now holding it in his left hand and braced his legs on Blood’s belt.

Clark then swooped into view. Throwing a series of left and right hooks into Blood’s face and distracting him for the moment. Using this, Jason’s right hand gripped another strap on Blood’s right shoulder and wretched the rebar free once more. This time spinning it around into a normal grip and stabbing forward. Cutting, slicing, and carving Blood’s side and back. The demon unleasing a howl of pain and lashing out.

He caught Clark’s next strike. Bending the man of steel’s arm backward in his left arm as his right began to rain down blows. Each strike emitting a concussive wave with the power of the strikes. Blood snarled, growled, and roared as he smashed. Then with a final blow, he grabbed the front of Clark’s suit. Before spinning quickly and sending Superman crashing through the base of the Washington Monument. His face covered in small cuts, blood, and swelling.

Blood then spun around again. Catching Jason’s left leg and dragging him across his body. Jason fighting the entire way to secure a better grip, or failing that, to cause as much damage as possible as he was pulled free. Digging his blade in and leaving another trail of charred flesh. Until he ran out of flesh and was left hanging to the whims of Blood. Who raised his right arm. Bringing the two face to face. Jason’s upside down visage meeting the scowling fury of Blood’s

Blood roared loudly. Leaning forward into Jason’s face and causing a wave of heat to wash over Jason’s helmet. Jason co*cked his head back before snapping it forward. Connecting solidly with Blood’s nose and face. Snapping the demon's head back in surprise. A yelp escaping from the demon's lips. Only for Blood to snarl and glare at Jason.

“Vermin!” Blood cried. The fury plain in his voice and stare. “You dare to strike me?! I am your god!”

“f*ck you!” Jason snarled back. Just as furious.

“You think your suit will save you?” Blood asked. His left index finger coming up and tapping against Jason’s helmet. Just underneath his right cheekbone. “Your suit is nothing! Your training is nothing!. You are nothing! I will peel that suit off your mangled body and flay you alive! Before having you drawn and quartered for my amusem*nt!” Blood growled.

Meanwhile, Jason began to feel heat building against his right cheek. The nth metal slowly glowing red, then orange, and then finally white. The metal melting away as Blood dragged his finger downwards. Carving a large, jagged line in Jason’s helmet and exposing his right eye to the world.

“There you are.” Blood cooed. An evil smile stretching across his face. As he stared into Jason’s now visible eye. “A turtle in a fancy metal shell.” He then turned and gestured to the large hole in the Washington Monument. “This world’s champion is nothing under my might. Without him, his flock is useless. A group of overconfident children playing at being heroes. And make no mistake. They will be brought to kneel or eradicated. Your armies will be drowned in the blood and bodies of my subjects and demons. Their weapons powerless in the face of true divinity. My will shall roll across this world and my kingdom will be built upon the ashes and bodies of the old. So………”

Blood now turned back to him. A confident smirk telling of his assured victory. “Who are you to stand against me?”

Jason’s visible eye narrowed. The glowing green growing brighter and emitting wisps of green power. Then, with a low growl, Jason answered. His voice undistorted and carrying the promise of violence.

“I’m your f*cking executioner.”

He then drew his arm across his body and called upon the All Blades, before lashing out. Carving a deep line across Blood’s eyes. Their glowing red being replaced by charred black and pained screams. The demon dropping him on instinct. Pulling his hands to his eyes and screaming in pain as his body writhed in the air.

Jason tuned him out. Instead focusing on the task of bringing him down. He quickly stabbed the rebar into Blood’s inner thigh. Creating another handhold and snapping his body around. Now hanging one armed from the blade.

Jason then reached up. Grabbing Blood’s belt and pulling himself back up to the false god’s chest. Freeing his blade once more before centering himself on Blood’s chest as he flailed. He then shifted his grip to the strap over Blood’s right shoulder and threw his weight back. Pulling Blood forward at the unexpected motion and causing them to roll. The two of them starting to plummet to earth like a bird without wings.

Jason then drove the blade forward. Stabbing over and over and over. Lungs, heart, kidneys, stomach, it was all the focus of Jason’s blade as they plummeted. His blows raining down faster and faster as they approached the ground. Blood cried out in pain with each strike, until a swipe across his windpipe silenced his cries. Which went unnoticed by Jason. As he continued his blows.

Until the two crashed to earth. Another crater and dust cloud announcing their return to earth. As darkness claimed Jason.

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Sometime Later

Jason groaned back to alertness. His vision blurring into a view the clear blue of the sky above and towering white of the Washington Monument. He slowly turned his head to his right, catching sight of the edge of the crater. He then panned to his left. Finding the sprawled form of Blood. Completely still and unmoving. Jason's rebar sticking out of the center of his chest. Right above where a heart normally would be.

Jason sucked in a large breath, before slowly letting it out. His head rocking back against the ground with a clang. As he took a second to breath. He then rolled to his right. Starting his crawl up the side of the crater. His chest and left arm screaming in protest as he dragged himself upwards. But Jason compartmentalized this. Focusing instead on getting out of the crater.

Eventually, he managed to haul himself up to the crest of the edge. His right hand finding purchase on the pile of rubble that marked its perimeter. He used this handhold to force himself to his feet. Clumsily getting his legs underneath him and swaying has he exited the crater. Only to curl in on himself as a flash of pain announced itself when he straightened.

He groaned and uttered a low curse. Before then forcing himself forward. The rubble shifting underneath him as he basically fell down the edge. A shower of rock and dust announcing his slip up. He tumbled downwards, his momentum causing him to roll ungracefully to a stop on level ground below. Leaving him on one hand and knees, as his left arm braced his side.

With another growl. Jason forced himself back to his feet. Panting heavily and sweating within his suit. But for the first time, Jason realized something. It was quiet. Absolutely quiet. No gunshots, no screams, and no sirens. For the first time all day, it was quiet. Jason huffed out another breath. Scanning the surrounding area and finding the world to be still. Besides the slowly billowing clouds of smoke.

He sighed loudly. Letting himself untense and relax…………

Only for a crack to erupt behind him. Shaking the earth and sending Jason crashing down. He landed in an ungraceful sprawl which left him staring at a trail of smoke emerging from the crater. Before his vision was filled by a new sight. Blood standing above him. A furious snarl stretched across his face.

Blood stooped down. Wrapping his hand around Jason’s throat and pulling him upwards. Jason's body hanging limply in his grip.

“You! I was wrong! You’re too dangerous to be left alive!” Blood snarled. One eye glaring at Jason as Blood’s body struggled to close his wounds. “I’m going to tear your head from your body and mount it on a stake next to my throne! As a warning to others that wish to defy me!”

Jason just stared back. Before doing something completely unexpected. He started to laugh. His voice starting in a low chuckle, before growing. Eventually becoming manic and actually unsettling Blood. Who looked at him in confusion.

“What is wrong with you?! Have you gone mad?!” Blood snarled. As he watched Jason slowly recompose himself. His laugh fading away.

“It's funny.” Jason started. “That you think you’ll live that long.”

Blood was then blinded. Something warm and wet covering his face before he wiped it away with his opposite forearm. His arm coming away covered in red. As he looked down. Being met with the sight of a glowing red and copper blade embedded in his heart. He traced his eye down the length of the blade. Finding it embedded and emerging from the left abdomen of the agent in his grip.

Jason reached out. His left hand grabbing the rebar embedded in Blood’s chest. While his right stretched across his body. He then called upon the All Blades one final time. His left blade burst forth. Cleaving Blood’s heart in two. Before his right snapped back across his body. Its blade carving a clean trench through Blood’s neck and decapitating the false god.

Blood’s body swayed. Slowly registering the loss of its head. The body fidgeted and then tensed one final time before falling limp. Its grip loosening and Jason was dropped unceremoniously as Blood collapsed. Falling backwards and away. Only to burst into a mess of blood and congealed flesh. Blood unrecognizable from his previous form.

Jason stood over the mess. Swaying in the light breeze. He distantly heard a swish as his sword was powered off and the red of the blade disappeared. Leaving him with a black blade embedded in his side. Then, his right leg collapsed underneath him. Dropping him to one knee. The jolt sending another wave of pain through him and causing him to collapse onto his side. The world fading away to black as someone called his name.

Chapter 36: The Greatest Race Pt.1

Chapter Text

Washington Monument

“McCoy! Get your ass up here! Knight’s down!” April radioed as she pressed her blood covered hands into the stab wound. She then switched to the global frequency. “This is Agent Wolf! I have a man down at the base of the Washington Monument! I need medics along with a medevac!”

She then quickly fumbled through her belt and pouches. Pulling out some gauzes and rapid clot bandages. Which were quickly stuffed into Jason’s abdomen in an effort to slow the bleeding. Behind her, a series of rapidly approaching footsteps announced the arrival of McCoy and the rest of Gold Team. The medic sliding to a stop in front of April and Jason, while her teammates took firing positions around them.

McCoy’s hands moved rapidly. Opening and closing various pouches and pockets. Pulling out more bandages along with a small medkit.

“Status.” McCoy asked professionally. Already moving to examine the blade and corresponding wound. While also shedding her own gloves in favor of donning blue, medical gloves.

“Stab wound, lower left abdomen. Possible kidney or intestinal damage.” April rattled off. Pausing her movements and awaiting instructions from the medic.

McCoy nodded before she pulled her left gauntlet to her face. Pulling up the various suit readings of the agents around her. Only for Jason’s to appear blacked out. “sh*t! His suit’s sensors are out of commission.” She growled. Closing out of the program and turning back towards Jason’s stilled form. “I need to get him out of his suit!” She said, looking up at April.

“Not happening! We’re too exposed and the JLA is still here!” April answered while gesturing to the destruction around them. “Is he stable enough to get him to a hospital?”

McCoy paused. Taking a second to run her eyes up and down Jason’s form. Her mind categorizing potential injuries. She then looked up at April. “Assuming it's just the sword, then yes. But, I don’t know what other wounds he may have. He could be bleeding internally or suffering a TBI.”

“Then let's hope he isn't!” April answered before keying her radio again. “This is Agent Wolf! Where the hell is my extraction?!” A snarl coloring her words.

“Agent Wolf. This is Red Crown. I’ve routed a MRAP to your position. Current ETA, three mics. What’s Agent Knight’s status?” Waller’s calm voice broke across the radio. April unconsciously stiffening in response.

“Ma’am, Agent Knight currently has his sword embedded in his lower left abdomen. Agent McCoy is on-site, but we’re unable to determine if there are any other injuries without removal of his suit.” April answered.

“Understood. Do what you can on-site. Which hospital does he need to be routed to?” Waller asked. The echo of computer keys sounding off behind her.

“Agent McCoy ma’am. I recommend we move him to Primaxa Health. We need a full body scan in addition to surgery for the blade.” McCoy cut in. Shoving more gauze into the wound and putting more pressure on her end.

“Understood agent. I’ll have my team radio to clear you a route as well as advise the doctors of his condition…. Be advised, Eagle-01 is personally monitoring the situation and has been looped in. Red Crown over and out.” Waller finished. Snapping off the line and leaving the group in silence.

April returned to her task of pressing bandages into Jason’s wound. Her gauzes completely soaked through with blood now, and becoming useless. McCoy noticed thanks to the squelching noise as April pressed. Turning and producing a fresh roll of bandages which were held out to April. Who gingerly removed her original bandages and took the clean replacements from McCoy. Swiftly packing the wound once more.

McCoy and April then heard a dull clang followed by a soft flapping sound. The women looked up towards the sound and found both Simmons and Hopkins already trained on the tense forms of Wonder Woman and Batman. One looking on worriedly, while her partner scowled next to her.

“Peace! We are just looking for our ally.” Wonder Woman soothed while holding up her hands placatingly. Her eyes moved slowly among the group and made eye contact with each of them. McCoy mumbled something under her breath and returned to her task of keeping Jason stable. Leaving it to the rest of them to deal with the heroes.

“Last I saw, he crashed somewhere over there.” April answered. Flicking her head in the direction of the large hole near the base of the monument. Her mind briefly wondering how the tower was still standing, but swiftly decided it wasn’t her issue at the moment.

“My thanks sister.” Wonder Woman thanked. Giving Batman a quick glance before rocketing up to the hole. Only to disappear through and out of sight. Leaving the team alone with Batman, who seemed to be assessing their every move. The whites of his eyes flickering slightly and indicating he was reading each of them in turn.

“Who are you?” Batman growled. Rearing back and pulling his cape closed. Making him look like an imposing shadow.

Simmons shifted. Angling his body so he was blocking McCoy. While Hopkins just raised his rifle higher.

“Classified!” April called out. Deciding that as current in command, it fell to her to answer the man’s questions. The bat leaned slightly. Looking past Simmons and directly at April. His gaze holding her own before he glanced downwards. Performing his own examination of the wound.

“He seems to be rapidly losing blood. Allow me to pass and assist.” Batman said. His cape ruffling slightly as he placed his hands over his belt.

“Denied! Our medic is on-site and has the situation handled. Thank you for the offer though, sir...... But I must ask you to back away now. We need space to get him ready for transport.” April answered. Turning back to Jason in a clear dismissal.

Batman ignored her dismissal and tone. Instead continuing to search through his belt for something. “He looks to have lost about a pint of blood. I have a prototype biofoam that can seal the wound without any issue. Let me pass and assist.” Batman said. Holding out a silver container with a small nozzle on its end.

April turned back to the man. Another denial already readied on her tongue. This one meant to be much more terse than the first. But it seemed McCoy was more than willing to answer for her.

“The day I take medication or medical advice from a man dressed up as a bat, is the day I trade in my medical degree and join the circus.” She tersely replied. Still maintaining pressure on Jason’s wound.

“I understand your skepticism ma’am. But I assure you, this has been developed by Wayne Tech to be used by the JLA.” Batman answered calmly. Taking a step forward and closer to the team. His boots lightly knocking around some stray rocks and rubble.

In less than a second, McCoy had her pistol in her hand and pointed at Batman. Jason’s blood slowly dripping off the grip. Her voice was cold and unflinching as she said. “Your concern has been noted and unappreciated. Now……. Get the f*ck away from my patient.”

The bat didn’t so much as flinch. Instead taking one step backwards and pulling his arm back inside his cape. The glare made April think he wanted McCoy’s head to explode. But the medic was unphased. Flipping the safety back on and returning to her work.

April watched her work for a few seconds. Before looking back towards Batman. Who was scowling down at them. Deciding that any more comments would make the situation deteriorate further, April focused back on Jason. Letting Simmons and Hopkins focus on the bat. The two sides locked in a tense standoff.

Until a MRAP roared onto the scene. Crushing grass, stone, and brick under its weight as it circled around. Stopping with a hiss about five yards away. Its back doors swinging open and disembarking a six man team of Rangers. Four joining Simmons’ firing line, while the remaining two joined McCoy and April. Unfolding a stretcher and pulling out an IV.

“Status?!” One of them asked.

“One large puncture wound to the lower abdomen. There doesn’t appear to be any sort of organ damage, but we won’t know more until we get him to Primaxa.” McCoy answered. Finding a port on Jason’s gauntlet and inserting the IV after manually unlocking it with a quick twist on the surrounding metal.

“Alright, let’s get him loaded up.” The Ranger said. Moving towards Jason’s legs as his partner grabbed Jason’s shoulders. A quick three count being the only warning before they hauled him onto the stretcher. McCoy carrying the IV high in her hand to allow gravity to do its job as they moved. The duo then gripped the handles of the stretcher and stood. A half jog coloring their movements as they rushed to the MRAP with McCoy in tow.

April watched as they began to load Jason up. Before turning her attention to the piles of bandages and gauzes scattered around. Quickly collecting them along with any rocks or other debris Jason may have bled on. Creating a small new pile in the center of the blood puddle. Before grabbing McCoy’s gloves and taking off after the trio.

Meanwhile, McCoy and the Rangers had finished strapping Jason down. Each of them finding seats around him and strapping themselves down for the trip. April clambered up the back steps. Spinning around to grip the doors’ handles, before pausing.

“Gold Team! Protocol 10!” April ordered.

Simmons spun around immediately and pulled out three incendiary grenades as Hopkins assumed his position in front of Batman, the Rangers closing ranks as well. Simmons knelt next to April’s pile and placed the grenade on top of it, the pin being pulled a second later as he retreated back. A ball of fire engulfing any evidence of Jason being anywhere near the monument a second later. April nodded her approval as she closed the MRAP’s doors behind her.

xxxxxxxxxx

Colorado - Three Hours Later

“I don’t care if he’s fighting Darkseid on the moon! Put Slade on the f*cking phone!” Rose’s irate voice echoed through the phone. Artemis was willing to bet whoever was on the other end was now slightly deaf. As she watched the pregnant woman pace back and forth in the family room.

The news was still droning on in the background. Its panel of “experts” being extremely unhelpful with their constant interruptions as the group watched the Washington attack. Constantly cutting away to some blonde reporter on the ground. The only reason they had left it on was because it was the only way for them to track Jason.

The camera seemingly focused on him after he had dropped a missile on himself. Before then tracking his progress as he saved Diana and charged the White House. After that, they had lost sight of him, until he hurdled a low wall with a window on the south lawn. Not even slowing in the slightest as he raced across the open ground. Similarly dressed, black figures followed shortly behind with additional US soldiers bringing up the rear. That was the last shot they had of Jason as he raced up the hill towards the Washington Monument. Gunfire being heard in the distance shortly after.

“He’s busy?! No sh*t he’s busy! But as far as I can tell, the fight is all but over and I want to know where my fiance is!” Rose shouted again. A growl coloring the end of her sentence.

Artemis sent a quick look towards Kori. Who was still curled up on the couch with the dog, watching Rose pace. Her eyes the size of dinner plates as she watched the white haired woman spiral. Seeing that Kori probably wouldn’t be any help, Artemis sighed. Before standing and approaching the pregnant woman.

“Rose. I know you’re stressed and scared, but I need you to calm down. Wilson is probably dealing with everything going on in Washington right now.” She started with her hands held out placatingly.

Rose’s head whipped to face her. A glower painted on her face as she shot daggers towards Artemis. Her ire now directed towards a much closer target.

“I don’t care! I’m his daughter and Jason is my fiance! I have a right to know what’s going on!” She yelled. Turning again to resume her pacing.

Artemis sucked in a deep breath before starting again. “Rose. I’m sure Jason is fine. You saw he had tons of backup and the JLA is there.” Contorting her voice to sound as soothing as possible.

Rose spun around again. This time dropping the phone to her side and marching up to Artemis. The woman sporting the most feral look Artemis had ever seen in her long life.

“That doesn’t f*cking help! I know I can depend on the other agents to have Jason’s back, but I don’t want the bat anywhere near him!” Rose snarled. An angry tear slowly running down the side of her face.

“I get it. You’re scared that Batman will find out who he is and come for him.” Artemis started. Only to be interrupted by a dismissive laugh.

“Scared?! Scared?! I’m terrified! Not because of what he could do to me or Jason! We’re both well aware of the risks and his “contingencies”! I’m terrified of what he’ll do to our child!” She screeched. “At least with Jason it’ll probably be that damned machine again or Arkham, and, knowing him, I’ll probably be right alongside him! But….we don’t know what he could do to our child.” Rose finished. Lip trembling.

Artemis stared back. Her face looking as if it could have been carved from stone with how passive it was. Her mind working through her surprise at Rose’s expressed vulnerability, while trying to think of something to say. Luckily for her, Kori was much faster on the emotional uptake. Flying across the room and wrapping Rose in a hug.

“It will be the ok, Rose.” Kori said. Slowly petting Rose’s hair as she hugged the assassin. “Jay will never let Batman anywhere near your child.” She soothed.

“But you don’t know that!” Rose protested. Even as her arms wrapped around Kori.

“No I do not. But I do know that if Batman ever finds you, Jason will do everything he can to protect you and your child.” Kori said. Pulling Rose in tighter.

Artemis then jumped back in. “Plus, the little one has a lot more allies now. Do you really think Talia will sit back and allow Batman to threaten your family? Gods, forget Talia. Do you think Slade will let the bat take his grandchild without some sort of fight? Add in the US Government and I’m sure he can cause quite the headache for the bat.” She assured.

Rose shot her a quick look over Kori’s shoulder. Before settling back into Kori’s embrace. The two then rocked slightly to the right as Bear ran over and clambered up. Wanting to be a part of the hug, and drawing a slight chuckle from Rose.

“Down boy.” Rose cooed. Pushing the dog down and breaking their hug. Her face was still slightly red and watery, but at least she no longer looked like she was going to burn down the house. Which Artemis decided to label as a success.

Wiping her eyes, Rose brought the phone back up to her ear. This time sounding more calm as she spoke. “Hello? Yes I’m still here. Is he still unavailable?………… I see. No, I can hold until he’s available.” She then stalked back over to the couch and sat down. While dropping the phone on the coffee table and switching it to speaker.

Artemis and Kori looking on before retaking their seats around her. Both ready to support the woman again if something should happen. Before a stray thought hit Artemis. The red head quickly standing and stalking into the Ops room. Where she quickly collected Jason’s phone. Before returning to the family room. Where Kori and Rose had resumed watching the news. She had just retaken her seat when Slade’s gravely voice echoed into the room.

“Rose?! Rose?! Are you ok?! Is the baby ok?!” He asked. Causing Rose to tense and jerk forward. Pulling the phone back towards her.

“I’m ok and so is the Baby!” She started. Only for a loud sigh to echo into the room from the phone.

“Thank god! There’s been too many emergencies today.” Slade exclaimed. Sounding tired for the first time since Kori had met the mercenary.

“Is one of those emergencies Jason?” Rose asked tentatively. A long silence stretching out after having asked her question.

“Let me start by saying…” Slade started.

Only to be cut-off by Rose. “Not inspiring a lot of confidence here, dad.”

“As I was starting to say.” Slade started again. This time sounding annoyed. “Jason is fine. Everyone is fine and the terrorists have been neutralized……. But.”

“There it is.” Rose deadpanned.

“But, Jason is in the hospital.” Slade finished. Rose throwing the phone a confused look.

“How?! He literally called a missile down on himself and carried on as if it was nothing?!” Rose asked.

Slade huffed before explaining. “Your fiance got stabbed by your soon to be mother-in-law’s sword. Which is on top of three busted ribs, multiple torn tendons, and a dislocated knee. Not to even mention all the lacerations and overexhaustion.”

“Is he going to be ok?” Kori asked. Sounding just as concerned as Rose looked.

Slade laughed. “The kid will be fine! They got him hopped up on so many pain meds he won’t be able to remember his own name. Plus, he’s had a lot worse and survived.” He assured.

Rose sighed and slouched back into the couch. Looking truly relaxed for the first time since Artemis and Kori arrived. “That’s good.” She said with an exhausted smile.

Kori reached over and gave her tight side hug, while Artemis shot her a smirk. Rose leaning into Kori while rolling her eye at Artemis. Before a surprised look overtook her features. Rose appearing confused for a second before she looked down at her pants. Where a slowly expanding puddle of wetness grew. Before pain shot through her lower abdomen.

Both Kori and Artemis noticing her sudden change along with the puddle. A look of absolute horror overtaking Kori, while Artemis stared stunned. Rose looked back to the phone..

“Dad?.....I..I…think my water….ju…just..broke.” She stammered. Causing the room to turn absolutely silent.

“Ah hell!” Slade exclaimed before the phone clicked off.

Chapter 37: The Greatest Race Pt.2

Chapter Text

Primaxa Hospital

The first thing Jason heard when he regained consciousness was the dull beeps of a heart monitor, its chime ringing through the room rhythmically as he struggled to fight through the brain fog. His mind was jumbled and unfocused, and he could feel his head rocking back and forth slightly on the pillow as he worked to force his eyes to open along with his other senses.

His nose springing to life a moment later and instantly being met with the sharp cleanliness that could only be found within a hospital. The combination of bleach and cleaning chemicals combining to form a wholly unique smell. He flexed his jaw. His mouth feeling dry in a way that only painkillers could manage. Which explained why his limbs felt both heavy and numb.

“Yes sir….. I understand sir. I’ll have him ready to move shortly.” A familiar, female voice said. Sounding far away to Jason’s ear. Before the tell tale shuffling of armored boots on tile began to draw closer. A gloved hand briefly gripping his shoulder as whoever it was examined something next to him.

Jason used the sensation to ground himself and force himself awake. His eyes fluttered as they worked to take in his new surroundings. His vision blurry before eventually clearing. Jason was met with the sight of a high-tech, private hospital suite. His bed surrounded by all manner of gadgets and medicines that Jason assumed eclipsed that of most normal hospitals.

He then rocked his head to his left. Finding April standing over him and entirely focused on some sort of reading on a screen. Her helmet removed and face scrunched in concentration.

“Hey Wolf.” He croaked. His words coming out scratchy and dry. But still being loud enough to snap the asian woman’s attention to him like a whip. Her eyes slightly widening in surprise as she saw he was awake. It was nice to know he could still surprise her after these last few years.

“Jesus Jay! How are you awake right now?! They gave you enough painkillers to put you out for the better part of a week!” She exclaimed as she scanned him. Now appearing far more worried.

“I’m fine.” Jason slurred. His arm coming up and then flopping back down in what April took to be a wave of dismissal.

“Clearly.” She deadpanned back with a sigh. Reaching over to grab a cup and then moving to the suite’s sink. Filling it with water as she searched for a straw. Eventually finding a pack of them buried in the cabinet above the sink. Multiple bandages and band aids stacked around them and hiding them from view. She then turned on her heel and brought the water over to Jason. Physically placing the cup in his hand and directing the straw to his lips.

Jason sucked the water down greedily. Already feeling more alert as the cool liquid sloshed down his throat, causing a cooling sensation in his chest. Jason finished the glass before turning back to April. Who had moved across the room to settle against the far wall. Her back pressed against it with her arms and legs crossed. She was giving him an indecipherable look, like he was some sort of puzzle. Jason was about to ask her what the look was for when she started to speak.

“So…. I have quite a bit of news to share with you. Some of it good and some of it bad, and before you ask. No you don’t get a choice which one I start with.” She said, causing Jason’s brow to furrow in confusion.

“Ok.” Jason responded. Drawing out the small word to indicate both his confusion and her need to start explaining.

April smirked. “Alright! So, here's the good news: Blood is dead, and along with him, most of his followers in the DC attack. The President is safe and secure with Waller in the White House, and finally, besides the stabbing, you only have three fractured ribs, a couple of torn tendons and ligaments, and a dislocated knee.” She listed off.

Jason nodded along with each piece of information. Before turning back to her and tilting his head to indicate his question of, if that was everything.

April sighed with a small nod before beginning again, “That’s the good news. As for the bad….. you're currently front page news across the country, along with your fight on the White House lawn..”

“What?!” Jason yelled in surprise. Looking at April in a slight panic.

“Apparently….. Vicky Vale is extremely persuasive, or just flat out lucky. She managed to follow the Rangers in and record the entire fight, which was broadcasted live on TV.” She explained.

“I saw her when we were running towards the Washington Monument, but I didn’t think she was able to get so close as to actually record me fighting! I was thinking we could have Waller claim we were local SWAT or something!” Jason complained as he threw his head back.

“There’s more.” April went on, unabated. Which had Jason snapping his gaze back up to her, along with a wave of slight dizziness.

“How can there be more? Did she record our fight with Blood, or somehow manage to find documentation on our little project?” Jason chuckled derisively. April sending him a sharp glare in response, which caused Jason to apologize with a quick, “Sorry.”

“No, none of that. She was stopped by a Ranger squad when we broke down the gate and, as far as anyone can tell, Nemesis is still classified. But……..” April sighed before meeting his gaze. Making Jason shift nervously while still sending a look that screamed “continue”.

“She knows your call sign, and has been using it on live TV with every report.”

“Son of a bitch!” Jason cursed as he looked towards the cabinets and sink, berating himself for ever giving her his name out on the oil rig some months ago. “Should have taken all her tech and thrown it into the sea, along with her and the camera guy.” He thought bitterly.

“Waller and the President are currently working on a plan to address the situation, but there’s one other thing.” April said. Her face going blank with the final bit as she waited for him to address her.

“April! I’m already in the hospital here! There’s no need to raise my blood pressure any higher! Unless you want a trip to the morgue!” Jason said. April cleared her throat loudly before starting again. A clear warning for him to not interrupt her again.

"The last thing I have is that we are currently fourteen miles away from the White House zeta-tube."

Jason just stared at her. The most befuddled look plastered on his face as his mind struggled to figure out why that was considered bad news. Hell! It wasn’t even news! But then April’s face slowly began to stretch. A wide, genuine grin appearing on her face as she decided to fill him in.

“Rose’s water broke about five minutes ago.”

Jason just stared in disbelief. His eyes growing to the size of dinner plates as his mouth dropped open. As his brain went completely blank as it struggled to react to the news. Meanwhile, April subtly grabbed her helmet. Thumbing the record function to capture her leader’s face contorted in a look that she would remember till her dying day.

“I’ll be outside, once you’re ready to get going.” She threw over her shoulder as she left the room. The door closing behind her with a loud click.

xxxxxxxxxx

As soon as she left the room, April spun to lean against the opposite wall. Donning her helmet and recording the closed door across from her.

Behind it, Jason’s loud shouts and flurry of movement could be heard as the young man rushed to find his gear.

“Wait!....” A loud crash and bang echoing into the hall before a call of, “Motherf*cker! Who tucked in these sheets?!”

There was then a shuffle followed by the heart monitor ceasing its beeping. Only to be replaced by the loud whine of someone’s heart stopping. Which was followed by another crash. This time sounding like some of the jars or medical equipment.

April’s attention however, was pulled away by a frantic looking nurse running into the hallway. Her blonde ponytail and wide blue eyes freezing at the sight of her.

“It's alright. He’s just taking a second to wake up.” April soothed dryly. The nurse slowly approaching her before both of them turned their attention back to the door.

“Wolf! Where the f*ck are my….. Nevermind found them!” Jason yelled out through the door. This time, a loud scratching sound announced his success at finding whatever he was looking for. Which was followed by a quieter and more subdued. “Well sh*t.”

The nurse turned back to April. Her wide eyes pleading for some sort of explanation or way to stop the drugged up agent behind the door. April, unrepentant, just gave her a shrug. Deciding that recording this whole thing was a better use of her time.

“Wolf! Why won’t my helmet……. I remember now!” Jason called out. A dull hiss announcing the seal of his helmet before the door flew open. Scaring the nurse and making her jump back as he stumbled into the hallway.

“Alright! I’m ready now. Let's hit it.” He announced as he turned towards the hallway, only to stop in his tracks as the nurse looked up at him. A disbelieving look on her face as he eyed her.

“Um… Hi?” He tried. Looking down at the woman before turning back to April again.

April sighed loudly as she gestured towards the poor woman. “Knight this is nurse…..” Her voice drawing out the last bit as a prompt to the woman.

“Black!” The woman squeaked as she tried to recompose herself. Straightening up and smoothing her scrubs. She then opened her mouth to begin her spiel, but Jason just brushed past her.

“That’s racist.” Was all he said as he limped forward. Causing April to have to mute her speakers as she laughed and the nurse to return to gapping again at the unexpected response. Until she shook off her surprise and chased after her patient. Who had managed to round the corner.

“Sir! I must insist that you return to bed! I don’t even know how you’re walking right now!” Nurse Black ordered as she grabbed his arm. Only to be gently shooed away with a wave as Jason kept walking.

“I’m fine. I just need directions to the parking lot.” Jason said. Rounding another corner and coming upon a long hallway where other nurses and doctors raced back and forth.

“Sir! I can’t release you in your current condition!” Nurse Black tried again.

“Seriously, there is a distinct lack of signs in this hospital. You should really fix that.” Jason said while completely ignoring the concerns of the nurse. Who could feel her blood pressure begin to rise as the man carried on.

“Sir! If you don’t stop I’ll be forced to call security on you!” Nurse Black screeched. Drawing Jason’s attention as he continued to walk down the hallway.

“For what?! I haven’t even done anything yet!” He called over his shoulder.

“You’re risking injuring yourself further! That means I have to hold you until I’m sure you’re not a danger to yourself.” Nurse Black answered as she ran forward. Placing herself in front of him and spreading her arms wide. Stopping his progress and letting April catch up.

“We’ll be here a while in that case.” April snarked next to Jason. Who sent her a quick glare with his visible eye narrowing. He then turned back to the nurse.

“Nurse Black, I appreciate what you’re trying to do and I understand your concern. But I’m fine and can assure you I’ve been hurt worse.” He tried to soothe. Only for the nurse’s eyes to narrow and her mouth to turn into a thin line.

“I don’t care if you’ve almost lost your arm or almost bled out before. Right now, you’re as high as a kite and I can’t let you go in good conscience.” Nurse Black growled back.

“How about in bad conscience?” Jason shot back. Already mentally slapping himself for the slip. While Nurse Black flushed red. A fire igniting in her eyes.

“Truly…your people skills are astounding.” April deadpanned beside him.

“I’m getting security.” Nurse Black snarled. Already turning on her heel and marching off down the hallway. Leaving Jason and April to watch her as she walked off.

“Which way to the lobby?” Jason asked. His eyes not leaving the nurse.

“Straight ahead, down two flights of stairs, and then out to the left.” April answered without hesitation. Her own eyes locked on the nurse until Jason brushed by her. Heading down the opposite hallway from Nurse Black.

“Where are you going? The stairs are that way.” April asked as she waved down the hallway.

Jason answered nonplussed, “This way.” Continuing his stroll towards the end of the hall and forcing April to follow. A low grumble emerging from her lips as she caught up with her squad leader. Who had paused to look out a window.

“This will work.” He said with certainty. Already thumbing open the locks and snapping the window upwards. As April just stared on, unimpressed. Jason then leveraged his legs and lower body out the window. Only to pause as April grabbed his shoulder.

“Why did you want to know the way to the lobby if you were just going to jump out a window?” She asked, sounding confused.

Jason gave her a quick shrug before answering, “I wanted to know where not to go. Now, come on agent! We have fourteen miles to cover and I won’t be late!....... Oh! Also, aim for the bushes.” And with that Jason was gone.

April sighed quickly before manuerving her own legs and body through the window.

“The things I do for you two.” She grumbled quietly before following her leader unto the breach.

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The Front Entrance to Primaxa’s ER Facility

Ted leaned against the front of his humvee. His green fatigues drenched in a mixture of sweat and water as he basically drowned himself with the water in his canteen. His gunner, Cole, was spread out on the top of the humvee. Claiming he was sunning himself, but most likely actually catching a bit of shut eye as they waited for additional orders.

Ted didn’t understand why they were guarding a random hospital now that everything had calmed down. It seemed like a gross waste of resources and manpower. But, as a private, he didn’t really get a say. So, here they were. Guarding the front lobby of some hospital fifteen miles away from all the action.

“Hey!” A loud shout called out to the two of them. Startling both Ted and Cole, who awakened with a surprised snort. Flailing around until he managed to pull himself up to a sitting position. As if he was alert the entire time. Ted turned towards the source of the commotion and paled.

In front of him, two of the black soldiers on the news stalked towards him. One slightly limping, while their partner followed behind. Her movements graceful compared to that of her lead. Ted immediately stiffened. A salute flying out like it was second nature.

“Sir!” He answered crisply. The man returning the salute with a quick wave as he stumbled forward.

“This your humvee?” The man asked. Eyeing the truck as his partner came to a stop next to him.

“Yes…. yes sir!” Ted stuttered, not knowing what to do with the intense glare of the agent’s one eye and the faceless visage of the other.

“Great! I’m driving! Lets go!” The man said without preamble. Already moving around Ted and towards the driver’s side. Until his partner lashed out. Grabbing his arm and stopping him dead in his tracks.

“No! You aren’t driving! Either I or one of them are!” His partner admonished. A hand flying out towards Ted and Cole. Who seemed stupified by the situation unfolding in front of them.

The man let out a long, exacerbated sigh before answering, “Fine! You can drive.” His voice trailing off into what could only be described as a pout. He then turned and eyed the humvee. Stalking past Ted again and settling himself in the passenger’s seat. As his partner threw open the driver’s door and turned over the engine. Snapping Ted into action, as he had to basically launch himself into seats behind them. Cole coming down to join him a second later.

“Dude! What the actual f*ck is happening right now?!” Cole whisper shouted at him. Before the roar of the engine drowned out any other noise. As the woman floored it onto the road. The humvee bouncing and josoling with the texture of the road.

“I have no f*cking idea!” Ted answered a bit panicked. Which made Cole pale for a second as he settled into the opposite seat. Now staring at the man lounging in the passenger seat. Who seemed unbothered about everything going on.

“Sir?..... Is there some sort of emergency or mission you needed us for?” Cole asked the man tentatively.

The man gave out a derisive snort before answering, “Something like that.” He answered. Sounding amused by the question.

Cole turned and shared a look with Ted. Both soldiers trying to figure out exactly what they needed to do. But then a flash of black in the side mirrors pulled Ted’s attention. He watched as two security guards raced out of the building. Arms flailing and pointing at their humvee for some reason. He then turned towards the two agents driving.

“Sir?.....You were cleared to leave….right?” He asked.

“No.” The man answered without any hesitation. His partner releasing a quiet sigh next to him.

“Oh” Ted mumbled dumbly. Looking towards Cole, who seemed just as confused as he was.

“Are we being kidnapped sir?” Cole asked the man.

Only to have the two agents answer at the same time.

“No.” Immediately springing from the woman.

“Maybe.” The man answered with a so-so motion of his left hand. Before his partner reached over to slap the side of his helmet. A dull ping ringing out at her blow.

“Ow!” He growled.

“You’re not helping.” His partner admonished. The man only reacted with a shrug as he turned back to the road.

“You’re no fun Wolf.” He snarked. The woman only gave a light hum in response as the two of them seemed to settle in a bit more.

Ted turned back to Cole. Whose eyes were jumping between the two in the front and Ted.

He then silently mouthed to Ted, “No, seriously! What the actual f*ck is going on?!”

xxxxxxxxxx

White House

April roared up the driveway leading to the White House. Various soldiers and other onlookers turning towards their truck as they came to an abrupt stop. Jason all but flying out of the seat before April could even put the truck in park.

He raced around the truck, his limp slightly noticeable. But being easily ignored by the man as raced up the front steps. April was hot on his heels as she jogged to keep pace. The two of them breezing into the White House’s entrance like a demon was on their tails.

Only to come to an abrupt halt, a few feet in. As Slade was standing in the center of the room with his arms crossed and eying them with a smirk.

“I just received a very interesting call from Primaxa Hospital. Care to guess what they said?” He asked bemused.

“That I’m the picture of health, and that I will tear you to shreds if you make me miss the birth of my child?” Jason sassed back. Already moving towards the stairs.

“Close enough….. Although they mentioned something about one of you being a bit rude.” He chuckled. Following after the soon to be father and his partner.

Chapter 38: Welcome To The World

Chapter Text

Jason’s Home - Colorado

“There should be a few extra coats upstairs. See if you can’t find one that fits and then meet me at the entrance. We can divvy out which bikes everyone is taking.” Jason directed as he pulled off his helmet. Quickly setting it on the table and starting to dig through the armory for his overcoat.

Behind him, April was removing her own weapons. Carefully laying them out on the table along with her helmet. Meanwhile, Slade had already ascended the stairs and had run directly into Bear. The dog nearly knocking out his legs as he charged the retired assassin.

“Jesus! What have you been feeding your dog?” Slade called from the kitchen.

“Anything I cook Rose and I for dinner. Your daughter made him quite the picky eater after getting him hooked on my cooking when we first got him.” Jason called back.

In front of him, he shoved some old “Red Hood” gear aside. Mainly his gray chestpiece and a semi-shattered helmet. Before he found the black overcoat, carefully folded below. He then turned and began to pull the coat on. Ignoring the slight twinge of pain when he lifted his left arm into the awaiting sleeve. WIth a final look around the OPs Center, he pocketed his phone and rushed up the stairs. His hands fumbling with the buttons as he emerged into the kitchen.

April was already upstairs and thumbing through their coat closet when Jason emerged, and Slade had migrated from the kitchen. Currently, he was leaning against one of the walls in the entrance way. His arms crossed and looking down at Bear. Who stared back as his tail wagged back and forth. Probably thinking they were playing a game.

“Bear! We don’t have time to play buddy.” Jason said as he made his way over. The dog’s head snapping to him before climbing up and rushing him. Meeting Jason with a quick bark and jump about halfway to the door. His front paws landing on Jason’s waist and tail spinning uncontrollably as he waited for his master to play with him.

“Down Boy.” Jason said with a light smile as he gently unlatched himself from Bear. Before sidestepping and making his way past Slade to start rummaging around their bowl full of keys by the door. He surprisingly found the keys to the Ford mixed in with those of their bikes. Which didn’t make sense, as he was sure that Rose probably would have taken it to get to the hospital. He quickly pocketed the SUV’s keys along with the keys to both his and Rose’s bikes as he threw open the front door.

“We’ll be outside!” He called back as he rushed onto his porch and turned towards the garage. He quickly entered the garage code and stood back as the door slowly began to rise. Only to be met by the sight of his SUV sitting comfortably in the garage like he had left it last night. He stared in confusion as Slade pulled up alongside him.

“Wasn’t that what you were supposed to take to the hospital?” Slade asked, sounding slightly confused.

“Yes! That was the plan…..I’m pretty sure I told Kori and Art about it, so I don’t understand why it's still………………..” Jason trailed off as his eyes became wide. “Holy sh*t! Kori and Artemis don’t know how to drive!” He yelled in realization as whipped his head towards Slade.

Slade just blinked for a second as he processed that. Then a wide grin began to spread across his face. Giving Jason a look that he could only describe as being delighted.

“Kid, you’ve planned out every second of this day, and you mean to tell me you forgot your two friends don’t know how to drive a car?” Slade asked, sounding far too bemused and smug for Jason’s tastes.

“I thought they could! Kori can fly a spaceship for f*ck’s sake, and Artemis……..sh*t! I never asked her if she could!” Jason answered somewhat manically.

Slade actually laughed as he made his way towards the SUV. “Your ex-father is known as the world’s greatest detective and you forgot to check if your friends knew how to drive!” He said, sounding absolutely delighted at the put out look on Jason’s face.

Jason forced himself to focus. Shaking away the shock at realizing he had missed something so obvious. But, in his defense, he thought he would be here to handle all of this himself. Not across the country remodeling DC. With that minor defense, Jason moved toward the driver’s door and quickly settled himself in its seat.

He turned over the engine and listened as Slade settled himself in the passenger seat. He flipped the gear shift into reverse and began to slowly back out of the garage. Only pausing to load up April who had found a long, white puff coat to cover her gear. She threw herself into the back seat, with Jason gunning it a second after she had closed the door. Throwing her body forward before she rocked back as Jason shifted into drive on the road.

“What the hell Jay?!” She screamed as she forced herself into one of the seats and strapped herself in with the seatbelt. It was then she realized who was driving, “WAIT! Why are you driving?!”

“It's fine! Most of the painkillers are out of my system anyway!” Jason yelled back as he drifted around a curve.

“MOST?!” April yelled back, incensed at the idea of him driving while still on painkillers.

“Yes! Most! Now calm down! I have a call to make!” Jason replied as he began to mess with the touchscreen in the center console. The tires screeching loudly as he drifted around another corner. Narrowly missing the guard rails as he revved the engine.

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Steamboat Springs Medical Center

Sally shuffled her files as she got ready to logout of the nurse’s station for the day. It was a pretty average day for the fifty year old senior nurse. Just the usual injuries from skiers trying to squeeze in one last run before the slopes closed for the year. Mixed in were the typical assortment of children with colds and strep or adults with some new ache or disorder. Nothing worth writing home about.

She had just filed away her paperwork and was about to start logging out of the computer system when the squealing of tires interrupted her. She looked up in time to see a black SUV barreling towards the front entrance. Its windows blacked out and obscuring whoever may be driving. The car’s engine then revved again, as the driver cut the wheel hard to the right. Causing the car to spin to a stop with the driver’s side door facing the main entrance, as a horde of patients got up to gawk at the spectacle. .

The driver’s door was then thrown open as the engine cut out and one of the most built men Sally had ever seen stalked out. Not even bothering to close the door behind him as he half jogged through the sliding doors and towards the nursing station. The patients in the waiting area followed his movements as he rushed forward. He was apparently unconcerned about their wide eyed stares. He quickly approached the station and placed his hands on the small overhang where patients could fill out paperwork or sign certain documentation.

“I’m here to see Rosalia Willow! She probably was brought in on an ambulance with two women! Both having red hair!” He quickly bellowed out. His gaze looked slightly frantic as he waited for Sally to answer. Sally quickly sat and began to look through the system. Filtering for any emergency visits and quickly finding the woman in question on the second floor.

“May I ask your relation to Ms. Willow?” Sally prompted as she looked back up at the young man.

“I’m her fiance. I just got back from a business trip.” The man explained as another man with an eye patch and an asian woman appeared on his shoulders. The older gentlemen looking slightly bemused while the woman seemed to be glaring at the side of the young man’s head.

“And you two?” Sally asked as she flicked the back of a pencil towards his two companions.

“I’m her father. Slade Willow.” The older man answered easily. But for some reason seemed even more amused. Sally nodded before turning to the woman.

“I’m friends with Rosalia and Jay here. I was with him on his business trip when he got the call.” The woman explained easily. Sally nodded again as she turned her gaze back to the computer screen in front of her.

“Alright then. She and your friends are up on the second floor, suite 248.” Sally read off as she began to look back up at the trio. Only the trio had become a duo. As Rosalia’s fiance was already half way down the hall. “Sir! You can’t park in the entrance circle!” Sally called out as the man disappeared around the corner and up the stairs. Sally huffed as she turned her gaze to the two in front of her.

The old man was staring down the hallway with a large smirk on his face. While the young woman was sporting the most exacerbated look Sally had seen all day. Telling the nurse that this was somewhat normal for her.

“I swear to god. He and your daughter are going to put me in the ground one day.” The woman sighed out. Causing the old man to laugh as he started to follow after the young man.

“You and everyone else that’s ever met them.” The man laughed.

“Sir! What about the car?!” Sally prompted again as she waved a hand towards the blacked out SUV sitting in the middle of the entrance way.

The man just waved a dismissive hand over his shoulder as he called back, “April?! You got that right?!”

The women in question co*cked an eyebrow at his retreating form. “Jay took the keys!” She pointed out.

“Don’t bother me with details, Wolf!” The man answered as he disappeared up the stairs as well.

The woman sighed loudly as she threw her head back to stare at the ceiling. Making Sally look at her a little pityingly. “Praying for strength?” She asked with a bit of a bemusem*nt in her voice

“Praying for patience. If god gives me strength I’ll kill them all.” The woman answered as she turned back towards the entrance. All the while mumbling lightly under her breath. Some of the patients catching her say “Lack of f*cking self preservation” and “of all the people, I get the destructive duo”.

xxxxxxxxxx

Jason raced down the hallway. Barely sliding to a stop in front of Kori and Artemis, who looked up at him in slight shock.

“How is she?!” He asked. Barely even stopping to ask as he moved towards the door. Only to have Kori intercept him midway.

“X’hal Jason! How are you?! We watched you get the blown up on the TV?!” Kori asked as she began to pat up and down his arms. Looking for any bleeding or other injuries. Jason gently grabbed her shoulders and moved her away from him.

“I’m fine Kori. Just a few broken ribs and a light stabbing, nothing major. Now seriously, how’s Rose?” Jason answered.

“She was just told she is almost ready to begin pushing. So I believe she may be due soon.” Artemis answered as she stood behind Kori. Her arms crossed and an unhappy look settled on her face. Almost matching that of Kori’s as the princess’ concerns were wiped away.

Jason gave them both a quick nod in thanks as he grabbed the door handle. “Thank you! Both of you! We’ll talk once she goes into labor.”

“Good! Because we have the bone to pick with you.” Kori answered as she moved back.

Jason paused and turned to them. “And I have one to pick with both of you! Also, expect driving lessons in the near future!” With that, he disappeared into the room.

xxxxxxxxxx

“You realize you’re in trouble right?” Rose asked with a bright smile as he entered the room. Jason playfully rolled his eyes as he sauntered up to her bedside. Grabbing her hand and leaning down to deliver a chaste kiss on her lips.

“It wouldn’t be a day that ends in “y” if I wasn’t Rose.” He answered as he pulled away. His tone is both playful and loving. He moved his hand to her stomach and gave it a slight rub. Rose placed her hand over his as he did. “I’m really excited to meet them.” He said as he gazed down at her.

“Me too……..and you're going to be spending a lot of time with them and me in the coming months.” Rose said.

Jason smiled back. “Of course I am. I’m not planning on any other world ending events for at least a year.” He chuckled. Receiving a light laugh from Rose in return. Until she winced as another contraction hit her. “How much longer did they give you?” Jason asked gently.

“Another half hour maybe. The contractions are getting closer.” Rose answered before looking off to the side. “I was……..was afraid you wouldn’t make it.” She said quietly.

Jason reached out and gently cupped her cheek. Turning her to face him as he sent her one of his smirks. “Baby……. I would have stolen the batplane, or crashed the Watchtower into a nearby mountain before I let myself miss this.” He said quietly. Before leaning forward and capturing her lips in another kiss.

He then leaned back. The two of them gazing into one another’s eyes until she rocked forward in pain. “Hit the button Jay! I think it's time!” Rose ordered as she began to take slow, deep breaths.

Jason turned and grabbed the nurse’s alert button. His thumb rapidly pressed the button as he reached out to rub Rose’s back. A few short minutes later, a team of nurses burst into the room. All of them covered in scrubs and masks. Quickly positioning themselves around Rose’s bed and ushering Jason out of the room as the doctor swooped in.

“I love you!” Jason called back before he was all but thrown from the room.

“I love you too!” Rose called back before the door was slammed in his face. Leaving him trapped in the hall as Rose began to push.

xxxxxxxxxx

30 Minutes Later

Jason turned once more. His feet were trying to dig a hole into the tile floor below him as he continued to pace. Nearby, Artemis, Kori, Slade, and April watched him as he passed. Quietly whispering to one another about this or that. Jason honestly wasn’t listening all that much.

After he had been ejected from the room, he, Kori, and Artemis had their discussion about not telling him they didn’t know how to drive. Which was quickly summed up with a “You didn’t ask!” They, in turn, tried to grill him on being Agent Knight, which he answered with, “You didn’t ask!” All the while, Slade and April watched on. Slade looking like he wished he had brought popcorn and April looking like she was trying to place Artemis and Kori. At which point, Jason grabbed April’s shoulder and formally introduced her to the Amazon and Tamaranean. The three quickly falling into conversation and leaving him to himself as he paced.

He had just turned again to head back past the four of them when Talia’s voice rang out, “Habibi!” Jason had just enough time to brace himself as Talia barreled into him. Wrapping him tightly in a hug. She then rocked back to look at him. “How long has she been in labor?” She asked.

“About thirty minutes.” Jason answered. His shoulders tensing slightly under her grip. Before she gave him a small, reassuring smile and pat on the shoulder.

“Then I wouldn’t worry. Damian’s took two hours for me.” She said before completely pulling away to go and greet the others.

Jason sucked in a quiet breath as he continued his march. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to talk or anything. It’s just…….his body needed something to do. He needed something to do other than sit and wait.

It was another fifteen minutes before the nurses began to file out from the room. Causing Jason to pause his walk as his friends and family rose to hear the news. Each of the nurses gave their group a quick glance. Some looked confused at his and April’s attire, while others seemed happy. If the slight rise in their medical masks was any indication.

The group waited until the last of the nurses appeared, before the doctor sashayed into the hall. She quickly removed her gloves and tugged down her mask. A bright smile plastered on her face. “She’s ready for a few visitors.”

xxxxxxxxxxx

Jason quietly crept into the room. Being as quiet as possible so as to not upset either Rose or the baby. Rose was perched upon the bed. A light blue and pink striped bundle wrapped in her arms. Which she was looking at with the most loving smile Jason had ever seen. Up until she had turned to face him. Her look went from merely bright to almost incandescent as she looked towards him.

Jason quickly walked over. Placing himself in a spot behind her shoulder so he could look down at their new child. Who was peacefully sleeping in the tightly wrapped blanket. They seemed to have his sharp jaw and cheekbones, but it was softened by Rose’s gentle features. Their skin seemed to be the same pale white of both their parents. Finally, when they opened their eyes to gaze at their new parents, Jason was met by the sight of two, piercing blue irises. Which gazed up at Rose and him in wonder.

“Jason Todd, meet Harper Grant Todd….. Your daughter.”

Chapter 39: Ending

Chapter Text

Washington DC - The Following Week

“Thank you all for joining us this morning!” President Jackson’s voice rang out across the crowd. In front of him was a large group of reporters from across the nation, each one ready with their cameras and notepads for the president’s address.

President Jackson was standing on a large stage, situated on the steps of the Capitol Building. Behind him rose two, large American flags. Suspended vertically to his left and right, so that the reporter’s shots would include the damaged Capitol Building in the background. Its normally unmarred rotunda was now pockmarked with bullet holes and a large, missing chunk of ceiling. Creating a skylight into the common area below. Two of its columns were missing after one of the cult members fired an RPG at the front stairway. Along with multiple windows and railings. All of which were attributed to the cult’s attack.

This was considered minor damage compared to the extensive damage and casualties around the White House and Smithsonian Museums. The most recent estimates put the death toll at around fifteen thousand civilians and a thousand non-civilian personnel, the latter mainly comprising first responders and Secret Service details entrenched in and around the White House. As for the infrastructure, President Jackson has decided to relocate to Camp David until all the necessary repairs and checks on the White House are completed. His thinking was that the American people didn't need constant reminders of the attack while they were still trying to calm the public.

On that front, things were starting to calm down. As both he and Waller had been taking constant interviews and making addresses to the nation. Their message being one of unity and strength as the nation grappled with the worst terrorist attack in the nation’s history. Instrumental to the success of these interviews was the footage of Jason fighting on the lawn, and then leading the charge up the hill towards the Washington Monument.

It seems that the American people were looking for someone to rally behind in the wake of the tragedy, and Vicky Vale was more than happy to provide. She had plastered his metal covered form across every TV screen in America. Which had left Waller and Jackson in a bind as they worked to cover up the full extent of the Nemesis program and its corresponding operations.

Until Waller had an idea: why bother trying to cover everything up? News outlets and foreign agents were bound to start looking more in-depth at America’s special forces, which could jeopardize the country's long-term interests. Combined with the ongoing interest from the JLA after the oil platform debacle, it was only a matter of time before questions started being asked. So, why not get ahead of everything and create the narrative they wanted to portray?

This led both Waller and Jackson to start openly using Jason’s callsign during their interviews while also sprinkling in additional, non-classified feats or mission reports to help build his mythos. Overnight, Jason and the agents of the Nemesis program went from having zero military accolades to having dozens each, allowing their impressive military records to be touted on live TV and help reassure the American people.

In addition, the purpose of the Nemesis program was drastically altered to make it more palatable for the American people. No longer were they America’s hidden assassins and trump card against the JLA. Instead, they functioned similarly to pararescue units. Designed to infiltrate and extract prisoners or wounded soldiers from behind enemy lines. They even went so far as to declassify certain missions. Before providing them to the press so they had examples of some of their missions. These missions were heavily redacted or altered, of course. But there was still enough there to soothe the concerns of the public.

Thus, Waller and Jackson had steered the narrative in their direction and successfully hidden most of their secrets from prying eyes. Behind closed doors, their intel agents were working overtime to pull any Nemesis mission reports from their system. They then stored them physically within a vault classified as above top secret in the Pentagon. Before completely wiping the digital reports from the system. Included in this process was the complete purging of agent names and locations. The thought being that if their identities were leaked, then their enemies at home and abroad could target them for termination.

The most prominent among them were Jason and Rose themselves. Waller and Slade had personally ensured the complete erasure of their identities within the program, except for their call signs. This effectively rendered 'Agent Knight' as a title rather than a person. Thus, if someone somehow gained access to the vault in the Pentagon, only their past operations would be at risk, rather than any current identities or ongoing operations.

All of this led to Jason’s current position, standing behind and off to the right of President Jackson’s right shoulder. His chin held high, as he waited for the press conference to end so he could leave and start his maternity leave.

He was requested as a representative for the Nemesis program to receive the Distinguished Service Cross for their actions during the attack. As part of this, his suit had been appropriately repaired and shined for the event. President Jackson and Waller didn’t want it to appear that they were underfunded or lacking resources when they were taking the world stage.

Beside him on his right was Major Hampton and some other soldiers. All of which were dressed in their dress uniforms and standing rigidly as if waiting for inspection. Beyond them was an assortment of first responders and civilians. Each of them dressed impeccably and just as focused as the Major and his men. All of them were to be presented with a variety of medals for their actions during the attack. A decision by President Jackson to highlight the actions of normal people over that of the JLA.

Speaking of the JLA. Their little group was lined up across from Jason, behind President Jackson’s left shoulder. With only Wonder Woman, Green Arrow, Green Lantern, and Hawkwoman in attendance. Apparently, Superman was still healing and Batman had business elsewhere. So, they had sent the most diplomatic of their group to receive the President’s personal thanks. A mostly symbolic gesture for the cameras, as Jason knew the President was still pissed at them for interfering without approval. But, he was a good politician and knew when to pose for the camera.

Plus, most of his work was already being done for him. Almost immediately after word reached the news outlets that Aresia was an Amazon, questions started swirling about why Themyscira would attack North America. Add-in Diana's timely intervention, conspiracies began cropping up everywhere. Jason’s personal favorite is that Wonder Woman is a sleeper agent for the Amazons, and had to intervene to prevent the death of their agent. Who was targeting the President as a sort of first strike, in a plan of world domination.

Artemis had crushed his phone when he showed her. Apparently, the Amazons would never resort to such baseless tactics and dishonorable actions. But, it's the internet, so news agencies began to run with the theory. Which, in-turn, caused various Senators and House Reps to call for an investigation. All that to say, Jason was not envious of Diana’s position at the moment.

“Now! Let us get to the reason we are all here today!” President Jackson’s voice rang out as he threw back a hand towards Jason. The gesture an indication that he was supposed to make his way to the President’s side. So he stepped forward with his back held straight and chest puffed.

“For actions of the highest honor and in keeping with America’s standards of excellence, I am presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Agent Knight. Who is accepting on behalf of his Unit.” President Jackson spoke as he turned and pulled the medal from a pillow held by one of his staff. He then turned and clipped the back of the medal to one of the corners of Jason’s chest plate. Making it appear like he had pinned the medal on him. He then held out his hand for a shake as he leaned in.

“Hell of a job, son.” President Jackson whispered before leaning back.

“Thank you, Mr. President.” Jason responded automatically before returning to his place behind the President.

“Now! For extraordinary acts of bravery…….” The President started as Jason slowly tuned him out once more.

xxxxxxxxxx

Steamboat Springs Colorado - A Few Hours Later

“Honey, I’m home!” Jason called with a wide smirk.

“Jason Peter Todd! I swear to god if you just woke up your daughter, after I just got her to sleep! I’m going to chop you up into little bits and feed you to Bear!” Rose threatened as she made her way down the stairs.

It hasn't even been a week since the two of them had been cleared to go home. During that time, Kori and Artemis had been a godsend in helping Jason out as he juggled multiple hats. The two of them took the lead in finishing up the last bits of the nursery and moving Rose home. They both had been enamored with Harper when they met her in the Hospital. Kori literally shook in excitement as she held the baby. Artemis, on the other hand, was much more careful with Harper. Handling her as if she could break at any moment. She also had a strange look on her face as she looked down at the child. Something Jason couldn’t place in the time it took her to shake it away. They both had left a few days ago when their respective teams had called them back.

Slade had been busy preparing their maternity leave, as well as taking care of all the arrangements for Jason’s ceremony. So all the new father had to do was show up on time. He had also slightly cracked when Jason and Rose introduced him to Harper and let him hold her. Jason was pretty sure he saw a tear, but decided he’d keep that to himself. He was pretty emotional himself at the time.

That left Talia, who had held Harper like she was the most precious thing in the world. Jason had placed her face as looking both happy and amazed as she held his daughter. A rare sight to the young man as she was usually so stoic. She had stuck around the first few days to monitor Rose and help out around the house. Until something had come up and she had to go. But before she had returned to Nanda Parbat, Jason had pulled her aside.

xxxxxxxxxx

“Hey T, can I ask you something?” Jason asked as Talia double checked her suitcase.

“Of course, Habibi.” Talia answered without turning away from her suitcase.

“When you held Harper for the first time, why did you look both surprised and amazed?” Jason asked. Causing Talia to fall completely still and stiffen in response. Before she turned to Jason with a melancholic smile on her lips.

“Habibi, I’ve lived my entire life expecting to be executed or assassinated before I’d grow old enough to see my children have grandchildren. So……. When I held your daughter for the first time, I realized how far I’ve made it.” She said as she approached him and cupped his face. “You’ve given me a great gift, Habibi. I’m so proud of you.” She finished before placing a soft kiss on his forehead.

xxxxxxxxxx

After that, she was gone. But not before promising to check back in next week.

“I don’t know how well that’s going to work for you, love. Bear really likes my cooking and I doubt I taste anywhere near as good.” Jason snarked as he wrapped her in a hug. Rose basically melting into his hold.

“I’d mix you in with a bit of gravy. Bear wouldn’t even notice.” Rose giggled as she broke away and planted a quick, chaste kiss on his lips.

“Heresy! I’d be better served in a pie or cake.” Jason snarked with a light smile before he asked, “How’s she been since I left?”

“She’s been fine for the most part. Mostly sleeping, but she got a bit fussy about an hour ago.” Rose answered as she pulled the two of them towards the couch. Pushing him down on one of the ends, before laying down with her head on his lap. “Now. You’re going to stay right here while I take a quick nap.” She ordered as he began to card his hand through her hair.

“Of course.” Jason chuckled as he pulled the TV remote towards him. He flipped through the channels before settling on one of the news outlets broadcasting the President’s address. The footage of the President shaking each of the JLA member’s hands looping in the background behind the anchor. While she discussed the various conspiracy theories that were populating the internet.

“What did Waller say the plan was moving forward with the JLA?” Rose asked from his lap with her eyes closed.

“Nothing has changed for the moment. We’re still not happy with them and they’re still too arrogant to admit they shouldn’t have acted without permission. Beyond that, the government has announced that they are going to conduct a review of the use of their funds by corporations.” Jason explained as he watched the screen.

Rose snorted on his lap. “So, she’s going after their wallets. It's pretty smart, but will only really mess with the bat and arrows.” She pointed out.

Jason chuckled, “Wonder Woman is already dealing with a PR disaster, and I’m sure she can think of something to mess with the blue boy scout. But that’s less important to her than sending the message to back off.” He answered. Rose only sighed in response as she settled herself on his lap.

About forty five minutes later a loud cry caused her to stir. As Harper awoke from her nap. Jason carefully extracted himself from Rose and left to go pull his daughter from her crib. But not before leaning down to plant a kiss on his fiancee’s forehead.

He quickly made his way up the stairs and turned to head towards the nursery. Only to have to pause to brush Bear out of the way. The dog had taken to sleeping outside of Harper’s room if he wasn’t doing something else. Jason and Rose had labeled it as him being protective over Harper and had let it be for now. They’d probably have to read some more training manuals in the future to break him of the habit though.

“Coming by, buddy.” Jason said to the dog as he entered Harper’s room. The dog immediately followed after as he made his way over to the crib. He then leaned down to scoop up his daughter. Who continued to cry as Jason gently rocked her back and forth. While talking quietly to assure her that he was there.

Eventually, she had calmed enough for him to start lowering her into her crib. But as soon as she touched the mattress, she began to tear up again.

“Not feeling the crib, huh?” Jason said has pulled his daughter back up. She immediately settled again. So Jason decided to take her downstairs to spend a bit of time with him and Rose. He easily traversed the stairs and came back to find Rose slowly blinking awake.

“Didn’t want to go back to sleep in the crib?” She guessed as she sat up. Making space beside her for him to settle in.

“No. She looked like she was about to start screaming again when I put her on the pad.” Jason explained. Meanwhile, Bear meandered his way around the coffee table, before lying down at Jason and Rose’s feet. A sigh escaping from his nose as he flopped down. “What are you sighing at? You don’t have to wake up in the middle of the night when she cries.” Jason chuckled.

Rose bent down to give the dog a quick scratch on his head. “Say, I have better hearing than you. So, I’m always the first to hear her.” Rose answered. Her voice sounding like she was talking to a baby.

Jason laughed as he adjusted his position on the couch so Rose could see Harper too. Rose righted herself a bit more before settling against his side. Her head laid on his shoulder. As both parents stared down at their daughter with a bit of awe.

“We made a really good looking kid, Rose.” Jason rumbled.

“We did.” Rose answered sweetly. “She’s going to be hell on wheels, though, you know?”

“Wouldn’t be our kid otherwise.” Jason chuckled. “Just wait until she starts school or sports.”

“I am not becoming a soccer mom.” Rose said with a bit of distaste.

“You’re forgetting the PTA.” Jason pointed out. Only for Rose to scrunch her face even further, making him laugh.

She turned to glare at him, but immediately softened when she saw the picture the two of them formed. Harper, sleeping quietly while Jason looked so care free and happy.

“I love you.” She whispered. The sentence coming out quiet and filled with love.

“I love you too.” Jason answered back. Before leaning forward to capture her lips in kiss. Only to break away a moment later and return to admiring their daughter.

“Hear my soul speak. The very instant that I saw you, did my heart fly to your service.” Jason thought as he stared down at the most important person in his world.