(Y/n) POV:

February 13th

Zatanna, Captain Atom, Black Lightning, Dr. Fate and I are standing on the Watchtower's observation deck. Strange and the other S.T.A.R labs scientists have been developing the zeta beam shield for Earth and are finally ready to deploy it.

Strange contacted us when he was ready to activate the shields. With the help of the League and NASA the satellites were placed in orbit at an altitude above the watchtower. Strange is now ready to activate them. We are all eagerly awaiting some good news. The investigation into identifying the Light's new partner is dead in the water.

Strange: "We're ready. Zeta shield relay satellites are all in place..."

Captain Atom nodded at Strange and the activation signal went out from the S.T.A.R labs facility in Taos.

Strange: "Activating satellites.... Congratulations. The zeta shield is now operational."

The transmission ended and we were left standing in the observation deck. I was hoping the activation of the shield would make me feel better, like we accomplished something or put a dent in the Light's plans. Deep down I know the truth, this effort is two little too late. Not to mention there are other ways of instant travel or travel in general that aliens could use to get to Earth.

Also, the bombing of the Kroloteans base proves that the alien force allied with the Light is already on Earth. Though we don't know what their numbers look like it's safe to assume the worst. A massive amount of Kroloteans got on Earth before we found out about them so this could be the same situation.

(Y/n): "You know, I was hoping this shield would make me feel a whole lot better."

Captain Atom: "It's a small victory, but a good one."

Black Lightning: "We will find out who the Light's partner is. It will just take time."

Zatanna: "The problem is it's taking too long."

(Y/n): "Lightnings right. We just have to wait."

Dr. Fate: "Agent. A word."

The room fell silent and my heart skipped a beat. I can still hear Zatara's voice from underneath the helmet. It took me a few seconds to force myself to respond.

(Y/n): "Sure, what's up doc?"

Dr. Fate: "In private."

(Y/n): "Umm... Sure I guess."

I followed Dr. Fate into the Leagues meeting room. Everyone else was giving us a mix of concerned and curious looks. Zatanna straight up looked terrified, can't say I blame her. We both aren't the biggest fans of Dr. Fate after what he did to Zatara.

Once the door closed behind me the god turned to face me and my heart skipped a beat yet again. Fate didn't waste any time, demanding answers from me instantly.

Dr. Fate: "Have you started it?"

(Y/n): "Started what?"

Dr. Fate: "Project Mockingbird."

(Y/n): "How do you know about that?!"

Dr. Fate: "I am a lord of order. I know and see all I need to, in order to ensure chaos does not permanently rise. If it comforts you I know not of what Project Mockingbird is, only that you must start it. It will be needed in the months to come."

(Y/n): "The project started the day after the League left for Rimbor. It's ahead of schedule and should be ready soon."

Dr. Fate just stared at me, I'm not exactly sure what to do. Wait. Wally said when he was in the helmet he could talk to Nabu. Maybe Fate is having a conversation with Zatara inside the helmet.

(Y/n): "What's Zatara saying?"

Fate looked a little taken back that I just blurted that out, if it's possible for a god to look taken back.

Dr. Fate: "He wants to know how Zatanna is doing."

(Y/n): "She'd be a lot better with her father in her life."

Fate just stared at me, normally I would be terrified being on the receiving end of this god's gaze but I'm not backing down.

(Y/n): "I mean sure she's alive and dare I say happy. I do my best to keep her that way but you should've seen the look on her face when you called me in here. She was terrified! You ripped away her only parent! The least you could do is let Zatara out once and a while, to remind his friends and family that he exists and has a life! Hell, if you really feel you can't let him out for a day because something will spiral out of control, I will put on the helmet!"

Dr. Fate just turned and walked away. He disappeared through a portal he opened up and I was left alone in the dark meeting room of the Watchtower. I wonder if I just screwed over any chance Zatara had of getting out. I hope not. Zatanna deserves to see her father.

I left the meeting room and joined the Leaguers I left moments before. I walked up to Zatanna and smiled in a vain attempt at reassuring her that everything's fine.

(Y/n): "Alright, what's next on the to do list."

Captain Atom: "Nothing, Black Lightning and I have monitor duty. You two are good to go."

Zatanna: "Thanks Captain."

————————————————————————

Zatanna and I arrived back at our apartment. I turned on the lights and took off my coat. Zatanna handed me her coat and I hung both of ours up in the closet.

Zatanna: "W-What did Fate want?"

Zatanna's voice was incredibly shaky. I sighed and looked directly into Zatanna's eyes. She's desperately waiting for an answer with a hint of fear in her eyes.

(Y/n): "He told me to make sure the Division was prepared for a conflict. Though he couldn't or wouldn't tell me why."

We made our way to the couch and despite revealing an ominous warning about what's to come Zatanna sighed in relief. I decided to change the subject, it's Valentine's Day tomorrow and I want to do something special. I know Zatanna's been eagerly awaiting any news about tomorrow.

(Y/n): "So... I was thinking. Since it's Valentine's Day tomorrow we could do something special."

Zatanna: "Like what?"

Zatanna sat up and had her full attention on me. She's staring into my eyes waiting for me to speak.

(Y/n): "Maybe dinner, just the two of us."

Zatanna: "Can we watch a movie after?"

(Y/n): "Of course we can, anything you want."

Zatanna: "Thank you."

Zatanna climbed into my arms and we cuddled on the couch while watching tv for the rest of the night.

(🍋 Lemon scene. Just keep scrolling until you see the next "🍋" if you don't want to read it.)

I awoke the next morning to the feeling of Zatanna snuggling up next to me in bed. Once she realized I was awake she climbed on top of me and gently started kissing me.

(Y/n): "Mhmm good morning, Zee."

Zatanna: "Happy Valentine's Day (Y/n).

(Y/n): "Happy Valentine's Day Zatanna, I love you."

Zatanna: "I love you too."

As we made out, Zatanna began occasionally thrusting against my crotch. I stopped kissing and let out a little laugh. She gets so desperate so fast.

(Y/n): "Someone's needy, or is it more of a want?"

I started sucking and kissing Zatanna's weak spot on her neck. The resulting moan she stammered out told me exactly what it was.

Zatanna: "O-oohhhh! Yesss! P-please don't stop!"

(Y/n): "I have no intention of stopping Zee..."

I slipped a hand underneath the blanket while keeping the other on the back of her neck. I shifted the hand that's on Zatanna's neck to her shoulder and pushed her over to the side. I rolled on top of her and silenced any protest she could muster by kissing her.

With the hand that I slipped under the blanket I grabbed Zatanna's waist and pinned her down so she couldn't squirm out. I gently started rubbing Zatanna's pussy gently through her panties. She was already soaking wet.

Every time Zatanna attempted to thrust up into my fingers to stop my teasing and pleasure herself I would quickly pull them away and put my hand on her stomach, before pushing her down into the bed. As a result she would constantly moan or whimper out which was muffled by our continued kissing.

Zatanna finally stopped thrusting and let me tease her. Her whimpering and moaning steadily grew in volume to the point where anyone in our apartment would be able to hear.

Fortunately for the neighbours, this apartment was outfitted with soundproof walls by SHD technicians so we could discuss classified material without the possibility of the neighbours hearing anything.

Zatanna: "P-please baby... I-I can't... take it. Mhmmm. P-please stop teasing me."

(Y/n): "No. You'll be a good girl and lie still."

Zatanna was shocked and I could see her blushing after I called her a 'good girl'. Maybe she is a sub? I have never openly refused to do something she asked for. She looked as if she was about to start thrusting again but realized it was hopeless. With a defeated sigh and sharp moan as I pressed my finger a little harder against her pussy, she surrendered to me. I quickly released my finger and went back to the normal light tracing around and across her pussy.

(Y/n): "That's it, good girl. Now put your hand above your head and keep them there."

Zatanna: "(Y/n), p-please I-I need-Mmhmmmm!"

I silenced her complaining with a kiss that caught her off guard. To my surprise she obeyed my order and kept her hands above her. Maybe it's time I reward her for her good behaviour.

(Y/n): "Think of this as my Valentine's Day gift Zee. If you really want it though... beg for it."

Zatanna wasted no time stammering out some pleas as I continued to move my hand to various spots on her pussy and lightly rub it through her panties. I moved my mouth back to her neck and focused on her weak spot.

Zatanna: "P-please, p-please finger me baby! I-I need it! I need you! The teasing is too much! Please, I'll do anything!"

I did as she asked and began fingering her, slowly at first and then rapidly picking up the pace. Zatanna almost screamed out in pleasure, she bit her lip in a vain attempt to stifle the moan. I inserted another finger so I had two working her pussy and she couldn't take it. Zatanna brought her arms down and around my face and pulled me into a kiss.

Zatanna moaned into my mouth but the moan quickly shanked to a whimper when I stopped thrusting my fingers.

(Y/n): "Keep your hands above your head. This is your last warning."

Zatanna: "Ok, ok... I'm sorry, just please don't stop."

I waited until Zatanna put her hands back above her head before I started moving my fingers again.

She's soaking wet now and I started trusting my fingers as fast and as far in as I possibly could. Zatanna's moans filled the room as I sucked on her neck, leaving a mark so that everyone knows she's mine.

Zatanna: Oohhhh! (Y/n)! Y-yes don't stop! Fuck your fingers are so good!"

I gently bit Zatanna's weak spot on her neck and she brought both her hands down. One hand clamped onto the back of my head and the other shot down to her breasts. Zatanna fondled her breasts as I pulled my fingers out and stopped sucking on her neck.

Zatanna whined, moaned and whimpered at the loss of pleasure. As she panted to catch her breath I gently brushed the stray strands of hair out of her face.

Zatanna: "Why'd... you... stop? I was... so close."

(Y/n): "I told you to keep your hands up, I even gave you a warning."

Zatanna: "I'm sorry. What can I do to make it up to you?"

(Y/n): "Stand up."

Zatanna quickly did as I ordered and I climbed out of bed after her. I watched as she teasingly stripped before me then she started seductively walking towards me with a slutty grin across her face. I grabbed her wrists and spun Zatanna around before I pinned her on the wall.

Zatanna's chest is pressed up against the wall and I'm pressed up against her back. Even though I'm still in a t-shirt and shorts I'm sure she can feel all of me pressed against her. A startled gasp escaped her lips as I leaned in close to her ear and growled out her punishment.

(Y/n): "You've been a bad girl, I gave you a simple task and you still couldn't handle it. So this is your punishment..."

I kept a hold of Zatanna's wrists with one hand and had them pinned against her back, pushing her into the wall. With my free hand I smacked Zatanna's bare ass. A bright red hand print emerged on her soft pale skin after she yelped out in shock.

(Y/n): "You're going to count to fifty. If you stop counting, I start over. Understand?"

Zatanna: "Y-Yes master..."

Zatanna slowly arched her back and stuck her ass out for me, and all without me telling her to do so.

(Y/n): "That's a good girl, if you get through your punishment I'll give you what you so desperately want."

Zatanna moaned as I gently rubbed the red mark on her ass. The first smack was hard and I intended it to be. Zatanna gasped again and immediately stammered out a "one" followed by some moans.

As I continued to punish Zatanna, her gasps of pain soon morphed into moans. She was desperately trying to please me and moaned out a "harder" though I'm certain she forced herself to do it.

Zatanna: "Fuck! Harder Mhmm! I'll be a good girl!"

I can see Zatanna's legs shaking, she's on the verge of collapsing.

(Y/n): "You're almost done, just a little more. Don't mess up now."

Zatanna: "Yes, master. Mhmm... forty seven. Ahh!"

The second we reached fifty I spun Zatanna around and released her hands. Before she could bring them up to my body I smashed my lips against hers. She threw her body into me and snaked her hands under my shirt, running her hands along my abs and lifting the shirt off me.

(Y/n): "Good girl, I knew you could do it. I would ask if you're ready for your reward but you seem eager to start."

Zatanna's face flushed as red as her ass while she started tugging at my shorts.

Zatanna gripped my member the second she freed it from my shorts. I led her to the bed and gently laid her down.

Zatanna bit down on her bottom lip to stifle her moan as I pushed myself into her. She failed.

Zatanna: "Ah mhmmm Ohh FUCK!"

I gripped Zatanna's hips and started thrusting faster into her now soaking wet pussy. Her eyes rolled back as she gripped the bedsheet and stuck out her tongue.

I can tell Zatanna's close to finishing, she can barely control herself. Her moans and screams of pleasure fill the apartment as sweat drips off both our bodies.

Zatanna: "F-fuck I-I'm so close! Please, I'm yours! OHH MHMMM!"

Zatanna was rocked by her first orgasm which shook her to her core. The constant teasing has clearly taken its toll. I continued to thrust into her as powerfully as I could while she rode out her orgasm.

Zatanna: "Ahh... t-that was... so good."

(Y/n): "I'm glad you enjoyed it, but we're not done."

Zatanna: "I was hoping you'd say that."

Zatanna rolled over and pushed herself up into a doggy style position. Her face is covered in sweat and her ass is still bright red.

I gently caressed Zatanna's ass and she flinched before letting out a soft moan as I teased her entrance with my member. I gently pushed myself back in and earned a long soft moan from Zatanna whose legs are now shaking.

I started thrusting slowly but quickly increased the pace. Our bed is rocking and Zatanna is now pushing herself back into me to meet my thrusts

Zatanna: "Mhmm ahh mhmmm!"

I can feel Zatanna's pussy tightening around my now throbbing cock. We're both so close to finishing and I'm determined to make Zatanna finish first. Her arms gave out and she slumped forward into the bed while I continued to pound her from behind.

I started thrusting as fast as I could while holding her hips up so she wouldn't slump forward until we were done. Zatanna's voice was muffled by the bedsheet and her own moans but I knew what she was trying to tell me.

Zatanna: "(Y/n)...mhmmm so close! OH YES! OH GOD YES I'M CUMING!"

Zatanna came for a second time and I continued thrusting until she rode out the high of her second orgasm.

(Y/n): "Z-Zee... I-I'm about to..."

Zatanna: "Don't you dare stop! I want it inside of me!"

I don't think I could've stopped if I wanted to. All the possible reasons not to finish inside of her flooded my mind at once, but they were just as swiftly brushed aside by Zatanna's moans and her pushing back against my thrusts.

Before I could focus my thoughts I felt myself release deep inside of Zatanna and earned an exhausted "thank you" from her as I pulled out and collapsed on the bed beside her.

(Y/n): "Z-Zee... what if you..."

Zatanna: "Relax, I... used a spell... before we started. I won't get pregnant."

I felt a wave of relief wash over me as I relaxed and pulled Zatanna close to me. I wrapped my arms around her stomach, holding her as we caught our breath. I hope the spell isn't permanent.

(Y/n): "Zee... this spell. It isn't permanent, is it?"

Zatanna let out a small giggled before using what little energy she had left to turn around and face me. She snuggled into my side and rested her head on my shoulder.

Zatanna: "No, it isn't. The effects only last a couple of hours."

I let out a sigh of relief and Zatanna giggled again. I couldn't help but smile at the thought of starting a family with Zatanna. In a quiet house where we would be away from the constant battles and missions.

(Y/n): "That's a relief. You may need to use it again tonight."

Zatanna: "I don't think I can take it tonight. My body is aching like crazy."

(Y/n): "I-I'm sorry. I guess I got carried away."

Zatanna: "I never said I didn't like it. In fact, I loved every second of it."

(Y/n): "I love you, Zee"

Zatanna: "I love you too."

(🍋End of lemon scene🍋)
————————————————————————

Zatanna and I walked into the kitchen, well I carried her into the kitchen and set her down on the couch. She's wearing one of my sweaters and sweatpants.

Zatanna: "Could you hand me that blanket and come cuddle."

(Y/n): "Well I was going to make us breakfast..."

Zatanna: "I don't want a fancy breakfast. Just make some hot chocolate and grab a muffin from the pantry."

(Y/n): "Ok, I'll start boiling the water."

Zatanna: "Let me. Just grab the muffin and the blanket."

With a quick spell the kettle was full of water and boiling. I walked back to the couch after getting the blanket and muffins.

Zatanna couldn't wait to get me back in her arms. She placed the hot chocolate onto the table and hugged me. I struggled to put the muffins down on the table before stumbling back to the couch. I held Zatanna as she snuggled up against my chest.

Zatanna: "This is amazing."

(Y/n): "I think so too, so about dinner. I was thinking we could head to-"

I was cut off by the sound of someone knocking on the door. Who could it be? We aren't expecting anyone.

(Y/n): "Zee are you expecting guests?"

Zatanna: "No."

(Y/n): "I'll get the door. I've got a bad feeling about this."

Zatanna: "Oh no you don't. Not alone anyway."

Zatanna stood up and we both darted to the door. I grabbed one of the many hidden guns throughout the apartment and stood behind Zatanna as she created a magic shield in front of us.

(Y/n): "ISAC, unlock the door."

The electronic lock on the door clicked off and I gripped my handgun a little tighter in anticipation of a fight.

Zatanna: "It's open. Come on in."

The door slowly opened, Zatanna and I were shocked to see Dr. Fate standing on the other side of the door. He stepped into our apartment and noticed my gun and Zatanna's fighting stance, he closed the door behind him before speaking. His voice echoed throughout our apartment.

Dr. Fate: "Is this how you normally greet your guests?"

Zatanna: "Dr. Fate?!"

(Y/n): "Forgive my bluntness Nabu, but what are you doing here?"

Dr. Fate: "Because of our conversation in the Watchtower. I've made an agreement with Zatara."

Dr. Fate then lifted his helmet off and Zatara stood in our doorway. Zatanna and I were speechless. I wholeheartedly did not expect Fate to listen to a word I said to him in the Watchtower. After all, he's a god that's several hundred years old and who am I to him? I'm nothing more than a small blip in his life, he's probably met sixty others exactly like me.

Zatara: "Hello Zatanna, (Y/n). How are you two?"

Zatanna: "D-dad..."

I set my gun on the table after taking the magazine out and removing the bullet in the chamber. Zatanna rushed to hug her dad who set the helmet of fate on the ground.

Zatara: "I've missed you."

Zatanna: "I missed you so much!"

When the two finally left the embrace Zatara examined his immediate surroundings and took special notice of Zatanna's sweater. Or rather, my sweater that she's wearing.

Zatara: "Zatanna, what are you wearing?"

Zatanna: "Well... it's umm, kinda.... mine... yeah..."

Zatara let out a light laugh and smiled. 

Zatara: "It's alright dear. I know all about the two of you and I couldn't be happier."

Zatanna: "Thank you so much!"

Zatanna hugged her dad again and I'm so happy to see her like this. She left the hug and invited her dad into the apartment. We sat down on the couch and Zatara sat across from us.

Zatanna: "Wait, how... why did Nabu let you go now?"

Zatara: "(Y/n), he convinced Nabu. The talk you had with him in the meeting room seemed to change his perspective though how, I don't know."

Zatanna spun to face me, her eyes wide and beginning to water.

Zatanna: "You talked to Fate about letting my dad out?"

(Y/n): "It was more like I yelled at him. But yeah I yelled at him about taking your dad away from you."

Zatanna lunged at me and wrapped her arms around me. We fell back so that I'm laying on the couch and Zatanna tightened her grip on me as she buried her face into the crook of my neck.

Zatanna: "Thank you, thank you!"

(Y/n): "It's no problem Zee. I'm just as surprised as you are about this. Now spend some time with your father. I'll make another cup of hot chocolate and be right back."

Zatara: "Thank you (Y/n). Thank you so much."

I slowly let go of Zatanna and helped her sit up before standing up.

I moved back to the kitchen and made another cup of hot chocolate for Zatara. When bringing it back to the couch I overheard the question that's been lingering in the back of my mind since Zatara was released.

Zatanna: "H-how much longer do you have?"

Zatara: "Only a few hours I'm afraid. Nabu was, in his words. 'Extremely generous' with his gesture of releasing me today. He has agreed to release me once a year for an hour at a time going forward."

Zatanna: "T-that's it? It's not enough time, it's not fair!"

Zatanna was crying in her spot on the couch, Zatara moved over to her couch and wrapped his arm around his daughter pulling her into a hug. It shattered my heart to see her like that and in that split second I made up my mind.

Zatara: "I'm so sorry my dear. We will find a way and-"

(Y/n): "I'll put on the helmet."

Zatara: "Absolutely not! You mean too much to Zatanna! I made this sacrifice so she could be free. I know you'll do your best to keep her safe."

(Y/n): "Zatara I-"

Zatara held up his hand and stopped me from talking. I looked down and felt a feeling of overwhelming guilt was over me. Zatara's right, I can't take his place, it would break Zatanna.

Zatara: "Promise that you will never make a deal with Nabu to put on the helmet."

Zatanna: "Please."

Zatanna was crying, tears streamed down her face as her eyes begged with mine for an answer.

(Y/n): "Ok, I won't. I promise."

Zatanna: "Thank you."

I handed Zatara his hot chocolate and went back to the kitchen to make some food. By the looks of it we won't be going out for dinner. I just hope we have some food here that Zatara will like.

I made sandwiches for everyone, it wasn't the fanciest lunch but it's what we had available. I let Zatanna and Zatara have some privacy and went to the bedroom. I made the bed and sat on it for a moment and finished my sandwich. before Zatara walked into the bedroom.

Zatara: "Come, sit with us."

(Y/n): "I just figured you would want some time to see your daughter."

Zatara: "I do. And I want to see her with you. Now please, join us."

I followed Zatara out to the kitchen and was met by Zatanna who hugged me. She looks so happy. It's the happiest I've seen her in a while but behind her happy eyes I can see a hint of dread. The days drawing to an end. We only have a few hours left before Zatara will be ripped away again.

Zatara: "We should have everything we need for dinner."

(Y/n): "Umm what were you planning on making. We don't have a lot here. I've been neglecting grocery shopping due to a busy schedule."

Zatara: "Zatanna told me the team is rather fond of homemade pizza. I'll make mine. You used to love this, we'd have it every Friday night with a movie."

Zatanna: "You're an amazing cook."

We helped Zatara make his famous homemade pizza. It was amazing. As we ate the pizza, which was by far the best pizza I've ever had, we discussed what to do with the rest of the night. Zatanna talked away about everything that had happened since her dad became Dr. Fate. Everything from our awkward moments before dating to the events with Keener almost killing the Justice League.

We spent the rest of the night watching movies that Zatanna watched with her dad in her childhood. I lost track of time but was brutally snapped back to reality when Zatara stood up.

Zatara: "I believe it is time."

Zatanna: "No please don't..."

Zatara: "I'm sorry my dear, but I will see you soon."

Zatanna: "No, no don't go! It isn't far, it wasn't enough time!"

Zatanna jumped up and rushed to her father. I stood up after her and moved towards them. Zatara hugged his daughter as she began to cry in his arms.

Zatara: "I love you so much."

Zatanna: "I love you Daddy."

Zatara: "I've got to go now. I must abide by the agreement or Nabu will never give us another chance. (Y/n) I know you'll take care of her."

(Y/n): "You have my word."

Zatara gently pushed Zatanna out of his arms. Tears were streaming down her face as she sobbed. I stepped forward as Zatara walked to the table where the helmet of fate was moved too.

Zatara put the helmet on his head and a blinding yellow light overtook our apartment. Within a split second Fate disappeared into a portal and the yellow light flooding our apartment died out leaving us in a state of sadness. Zatanna looked as though she was about to fall to her knees so I rushed to hug her. She sobbed into my chest as I held her.

(Y/n): "Shhh it's going to be alright Zee."

Zatanna: "H-he's gone."

I gently stroked her hair as she continued to whimper. I picked Zatanna up and walked back to the bedroom.

(Y/n): "I know, let it out Zee. I'm here for you."

Zatanna: "Please... hold me."

(Y/n): "Of course."

We got undressed and laid in bed. Zatanna snuggled up against me under the covers and rested her head against my chest. Her breathing was heavy and short but she slowly calmed down.

Zatanna: "T-thank you... I didn't think I'd ever see him again. Thank you for speaking to Nabu."

(Y/n): "I couldn't have possibly imagined that this would come out of it."

Zatanna: "Whether you intended it or not, this was the best Valentine's Day gift ever. I love you."

(Y/n): "Thank you Zee. I love you too."

We slowly drifted to sleep. I couldn't get the mix of emotions out of my head. The joy of seeing Zatara, seeing Zatanna so happy and the pain of seeing Zatara become Dr. Fate again. I can't even imagine the pain Zatanna's in, I just want to make it all go away.

————————————————————————

February 19th

Nightwing has this theory that the alien bomb responsible for the destruction of the Krolotean base was smuggled to Earth via Boom Tubes. To corroborate his theory, Watchtower sensors have picked up an uptick in Boom Tube activity in Bialya.

His solution was to send Alpha squad to investigate Boom Tube hotspots. Miss Martian leads Wonder Girl, Batgirl and Bumblebee. Nightwing thinks he convinced me that those four are capable and I'm not needed in Bialya. I'm still going, Nightwing didn't believe me when I showed him the satellite photos of the Boom Tube hotspots. Alpha squad is being sent to investigate an open and empty desert. The only one of any value is three remote military hangars stuffed full of various weapons and vehicles. Satellite reconnaissance didn't show any Boom Tube activity in the area though.

I'm currently flying above Bialya in a C-17 transport, disguised as a civilian plane. Well not really disguised but the transponder is giving off the proper signal to make the Bialyan Air Force think it's a passenger jet. Once we reached the target zone I put on my mask to breathe during the jump and threw myself out of the plane.

I felt the sharp cold air slowly get warmer as I approached the desert below. I pulled the ripcord and felt the parachute open. I carefully maneuvered the parachute so I would land about 500m behind Alpha squads position. Both Alpha squad and the Bialyan military don't know I'm here. Though to avoid any unnecessary complications I'm going to join up with Alpha squad.

After I ditched my parachute I made my way to the sandhill Alpha squad was positioned behind.

All four of them are focusing their attention on the hangars, completely ignoring their own perimeter and neglecting a rear guard.

They must be using M'ganns telepathic link because I have heard a word spoken between them. Slid down the hill behind them, they must be in one hell of an argument because they didn't hear me at all. Finally I whistled at the four girls who all spun around to face me and jumped into a fighting stance.

(Y/n): "Hey, pro tip for sneaking into enemy territory, have a rear guard or at least someone on lookout."

Miss Martian: "Vanguard?! What are you doing here?"

(Y/n): "My job. Langley intel says this is nothing more than a military warehouse. Nightwing thinks otherwise, so I'm checking it out."

Wonder Girl: "That's our mission! Scram!"

(Y/n): "I'm here and I'm going to help. Plus you owe me. Do you have any idea how much paperwork I had to do after you two remodeled the general assembly room."

Wonder Girl and Batgirl recoiled and scratched their heads in embarrassment, though they quickly retaliated to my comment.

Batgirl: "Fine, but you follow our lead. Got it?"

(Y/n): "No. You see, unlike you guys I have a plan."

Bumblebee: "What kind of plan?"

(Y/n): "The SHD and CIA believe most of this stuff will be deployed against Qurac. American politicians have floated the idea of drawing back support for Qurac because the region appears stable and it is a major drain on the armed forces. That idea is finally picking up steam with the American public. We predict that as soon as America commits to a massive withdrawal of its military from Qurac, Bialya will invade. The American public is getting increasingly sick of foreign wars so no politician will risk losing reelection by intervening, thus handing Qurac right to Queen Bee and the Light."

Wonder Girl: "That's an amazing prediction. What does it have to do with these hangars?"

(Y/n): "They store military equipment. They can't use that equipment if it's destroyed."

Miss Martian: "No this is a stealth op. We have no legal right to be here as it is. We will not be blowing up the hangars."

(Y/n): "Sure whatever you say boss. Link me up and let's get moving."

Miss Martian: "Yeah no. You said it yourself. We need a rear guard and that's you. Watch our backs and Wonder Girl will help you."

Wonder Girl: "What why me!"

Bumblebee: "Because you're Wonder Girl. Not stealth girl."

Miss Martian: "Use the link for communication. They have the ability to intercept our radios."

(Y/n): "Here, take these. ISAC won't get intercepted."

I handed out earpieces to everyone.

(Y/n): "ISAC will prevent the Bialyans from intercepting our comms. If anything happens, meet back here. Got it?"

The three girls nodded and went off to infiltrate their assigned hangars. I deployed my drone and let it take off to patrol the area.

A few minutes went by and I took out a seeker mine and began throwing it and watching it drive back to me. After a few minutes Wonder Girl was growing irritated at the constant soft noise the seeker mine put out while driving in the desert sand.

Wonder Girl: "What are you playing with?"

(Y/n): "An explosive."

Wonder Girl: "What?!"

(Y/n): "Relax. I need to assess how it operates in the sandy environment and it's unarmed."

Wonder Girl ignored my terrible excuse and went back to watching the hangars.

Wonder Girl: "Look. A truck is coming from the south."

We both looked down at the truck driving into the base. The truck came to a stop, we zoomed in with our binoculars and watched Havoc, Devastation, Shimmer, Icicle Jr and a hooded figure jump out the back of the truck. The hooded figure took off his hood and we both instantly recognized who it was.

Wonder Girl: "Psimon!"

(Y/n): "Great, that's a problem."

Wonder Girl: "We have to warn them."

(Y/n): "You're right. I'll get Batgirl, you get Miss M and we'll meet at Bumblebee's hangar before sneaking out to the bio-ship."

Wonder Girl: "Got it."

I could've used ISAC to call them but I want to get a look at whatever's inside the hangars.

We both took off towards the hangars, well I moved a lot slower than she did. On my way to Batgirl's assigned hangar I tried to call the three members of Alpha squad on my radio. I was expecting a call back, ISAC can't be intercepted by anything the Bialyans have but I recognized the static that came through on my headset. A white noise generator. Messes up all signals in its range. I've trained to fight against it, but I'm normally with a team and don't have people on the inside that I'm trying to rescue without alerting the enemy to their or my own presence. I managed to sneak into the hangar that Batgirl disappeared into. The guards weren't too hard to get past, they all seemed distracted at the arrival of their boss.

Once I entered through a small side door I noticed that the warehouse was jammed full of weapons and supplies of all kinds. Tanks were parked along the rows of large crates. I couldn't find Batgirl anywhere, not that I had a chance to look for very long. The alarm went off and the base slammed into lockdown. The door behind me locked and metal bars slid from the sides to prevent me from getting out even if I was to open the door.

I could hear the faint sound of gunfire coming from the outside. I hope the girls are alright.

I noticed a large elevator at the back of the warehouse, guards entered through the large main door right before it closed. I only have moments before I'm found. Hopefully Alpha squad can find me. I sprinted towards the elevator and hid inside of it, pushing myself against the side and out of sight to the soldiers. One soldier is getting dangerously close to the elevator. He's searching around with a flashlight and checking every dark corner he comes across.

I unsheathed my combat knife and waited. I can't use my handgun, even a suppressed shot would alert everyone in this quiet room.

Luckily the guard checked the other side of the elevator first and carelessly stepped into the doorway. I quickly grabbed him and covered his mouth to muffle his screams. I stabbed the knife into his back and then quickly snapped his neck. I dropped his lifeless body on the floor and looked out of the elevator to make sure the rest of the soldiers didn't hear anything.

The rest of the soldiers aren't close enough to hear the elevator doors close. That's good, the lower the casualties the less likely the Bialyans will press the issue on the international stage.

I pushed the only other floor button on the elevator and let out a small sigh of relief as the doors closed. The elevator began descending, I guess I'm going down.

I can't tell how far down I travelled but it wasn't more than 20-25 meters. I loaded my rifle and got ready for a fight as the elevator slowed to a stop. I deployed ISAC's drone as well as the few seeker mines I have on my kit. I was forced to leave most of it behind because the parachute took the place of my backpack. I also don't have the ammunition for a drawn out engagement so I'll need to be careful.

The elevator dinged and the doors slowly began to open. I saw four Bialyan soldiers, each with their back turned to me and working on large computers that had various displays across the screens. The seconds I have before they notice me is all I need.

I rushed behind them and smashed the first solders head into the computer screen, shattering it and sending the glass flying. The other three looked at me in pure shock, their faces have a terrified expression on them. They would probably be terrified a whole lot more if they could see the massive smile I have on my face, fortunately for them my gaiter covers most of it. I took out my pistol in one swift motion and shot the three soldiers. I still have rubber bullets loaded so at least they won't be permanently injured.

Batgirl: "What did you do?!"

I turned to see batgirl hiding behind a pile of ancient bricks, only now do I fully take in my surroundings. I'm in some sort of ancient temple. There are beetle carvings and ancient inscriptions all over the place. It looks like some Egyptian temple though I'm not too versed in the knowledge of ancient Egypt so I wouldn't be able to tell you.

Batgirl: "Hello. Vanguard, what are you doing?"

(Y/n): "Oh hey Batgirl. Just looking for you actually, and relax, rubber bullets. They are fine."

Batgirl: "Bumblebee found me first. Any idea what this place is?"

(Y/n): "No clue but I'm taking every bit of information off these computers."

Batgirl: "Alright. I'm going to check out that plane."

Batgirl disappeared as soon as she appeared and I  started working on the computer. ISAC easily bypassed the security on the computer and I started downloading everything.

ISAC: "Download 50% completed."

I heard Batgirl scream and rushed to the edge of the small cliff so I could see the plane and runway built below. Batgirl is laying on the ground, I'm assuming she's unconscious. I hope they didn't kill or permanently injure her. She was surrounded by every supervillain Wonder Girl and I witnessed jumping out of the truck that pulled into the base.

(Y/n): "Great, how am I going to do this."

I don't have the ammunition or the large explosives I need to take on Mammoth and Devastation, not to mention the squads of Bialyan soldiers that will rush down here the moment I attack. I'll have to sneak down and rescue Batgril without being seen.

I took out my binoculars and looked down at Batgirl's former position. They've placed her in some kind of containment pod. It is made out of metal and red glass. The glass allows for any observers to see into the pod and the control panel almost looks alien. Either that or extremely high tech. The pods beside Batgirl. They have children in them! At least twelve children, most look around fifteen or sixteen.

Great another massive compilation. They are loading the kids onto the plane. I'll have to sneak aboard the plane and hijack it. My best bet will be to take it right before takeoff and hopefully kick both Mammoth and Devastation off before we get airborne. Anyone else I'll be able to handle.

To top everything off Shimmer is almost at the lift to come up to my position.

ISAC: "Download Completed."

(Y/n): "Great, now wipe everything off their computers and let's get ready to move."

The drone returned to my position and docked on the back of my vest. I love this drone, no bigger than a laptop and fires with enough stopping power to drop a soldier in full Kevlar. I hid behind a large rock and waited for Shimmer to exit the lift. The second she stepped off the lift and passed my rock I punched her in the side of the head. She crumbled to the ground instantly, I grabbed her ankles and dragged her back by the other unconscious soldiers.

I don't have long now. Psimon will undoubtedly notice when Shimmer stops responding or doesn't return from whatever she was going to do in the control room.

I dropped down to the runway level using the same ledges that Batgirl used. Thankfully they aren't looking for another intruder and it looks like they've finished loading the abducted kids onto the plane.

I made my way to the plane, barely getting inside before the Icicle Jr turned around. Once inside I started inspecting the rows of pods for Batgirl. I'll need her help to fly this thing. I eventually found her. After a quick inspection of the pod and a little bit of button mashing I finally hit the right one. The pod opened and I caught Batgirl and carried her to the cockpit of the plane. Once inside I shut the doors and set her down on the floor.

(Y/n): "Batgirl, Batgirl.... Batgirl get up."

Batgirl: "Ahh my head..."

(Y/n): "Yeah thank Psimon, now we have a cargo plane full of abducted kids. Time to get airborne."

The door opened and I raised my handgun at the opening to find Bumblebee flying at head level.

Bumblebee: "There you two are! We were wondering what happened."

Batgirl: "Where's Miss Martian and Wonder Girl."

Bumblebee: "Miss M's fighting Psimon and Wonder Girl is going to knock the hangar doors off when they start closing them on you. Now get this thing out of here, we'll distract them!"

She flew off to help M'gann in the fight against Psimon. Batgirl and I sat down in the pilot and co-pilot chairs, she seemed to know what she's doing so that's good.

Batgirl: "Ramps up, both engines online. We're moving."

The plane started rumbling down the runway, picking up speed and slowly lifting off.

(Y/n): "We can't lift off too early or we'll slam into the roof of this cave."

Batgirl: "I know!"

I honestly thought we were home free. Then something landed on top of the plane. I could hear the echo of the footsteps getting closer and closer to us, I unholstered my pistol, waiting for whoever is approaching us to make a move. Suddenly the escape hatch above us was ripped off.

Alarms started blaring as Batgirl called out for help from Alpha squad. Devastation was reaching down towards Batgirl. I stood up and aimed my handgun directly at Devastation's face.

(Y/n): "Get off my plane."

Devastation: "You can't hurt me with that thing!"

(Y/n): "It's a cool line nonetheless."

Wonder Girl: "Devastation!"

Wonder Girl flew forward and slammed into Devastation sending her flying back and importantly away from Batgirl and I. Our moment of relief was cut short when the plane started jerking back and forth. Batgirl was struggling to keep the plane going straight. 

Batgirl: "Wonder Girl what's going back there?!"

Wonder Girl: "Hang on! I'll deal with it!"

Shortly after the plane stopped jerking back and forth. Wow, we might actually be in the clear. Wonder Girl's voice spoke in my head through M'gann's link which was now activated with the defeat of Psimon.

Wonder Girl: 'Yes! We did it!"

Just as I sat back down in the co-pilot's chair the alarms started blaring again. The plane jumped to the right as a loud explosion came from our left engine. I heard a terrible noise which I'm assuming is the sound of the wings scraping the cave wall and then being ripped off because right after the sound stopped we began to slow down.

(Y/n): "We lost both engines!"

Batgirl: "The breaks aren't responding!"

(Y/n): "We're out of runway!"

Batgirl: "Oh no. Alpha we need a little help! Again!"

As the plane shot out of the cave we instantly started falling. I saw Wonder Girl disappear in front of the plane and we started slowing down but it wasn't nearly enough.

Wonder Girl: "It's too heavy!"

Miss Martian: "For me too! Time for plan B!"

(Y/n): "Ground! The ground's getting closer!"

I don't want to say that I thought we were going to die, but we were very close to the ground when the bio-ship used its massive clamp to lock onto the plane hill and pull us up.

Wonder Girl was cheering and the rest of Alpha squad laughing. I couldn't help but join in on the laughter as we flew back to the Cave.

As we flew back I accessed the plane's autopilot and GPS tracker. My hope is to find out where they were going to take the kids but the autopilot ends in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
————————————————————————

We arrived back in the Cave after we dropped off all the abducted children at a S.T.A.R labs facility. Nightwing was waiting for us in the main area of the Cave, he looked annoyed. Probably because he already knows I'm about to say I told you so. I would really hate to disappoint him.

(Y/n): "Told you so."

Nightwing groaned in annoyance and pinched the bridge of his nose.

Nightwing: "Is that necessary, or even professional for someone in your position?"

(Y/n): "Yes and no. But as you no doubt know. I like to do things my own way from time to time, and look how it worked out."

Nightwing turned to face Alpha squad and sighed.

Nightwing: "Psimon planted mental suggestions in the heads of his doctors and nurses. They've been tending to an empty hospital bed for months. I'm sorry."

M'gann: "It had to happen eventually."

Nightwing: "No sign of any alien tech?"

I burst out laughing. I know Dick's grasping at straws to prove me wrong. Wonder Girl laughed but quickly silenced herself when she realized no one else on Alpha squad was laughing.

Bumblebee: "No, but what we found was strange enough."

M'gann: "It was clear in Shimmer's mind that Queen Bee was acting as a middle man. Delivering abducted humans to an unknown partner."

Batgirl: "We questioned all the abductees during the flight home. Most were runaways, all were kidnapped after the destruction of the Kroloteans and Malina island."

Nightwing: "So if the Bialyans aren't kidnapping humans for the Kroloteans, then who is this partner?"

Wonder Girl let out a defeated sigh and I can't help but feel sorry for her. She's so enthusiastic and has high expectations for herself.

Wonder Girl: "Another unanswered question."

(Y/n): "Hey, you can't get down on yourself. You did great, you helped save a bunch of kidnapped teenagers."

Nightwing: "New questions keep the investigation moving forward. You saved lives and got each other home safe. Plus you bailed out Vanguard over there so he owes you guys now. All that makes it a successful mission in my books. Good work alpha."

Alpha squad all left and looked cheery at the congratulations they received for a job well done. I stayed with Dick and turned to face him the second they were out of earshot.

(Y/n): "The children Dick. The Lights targeting children."

Nightwing: "Do you have any idea why?"

(Y/n): "No. I even checked the autopilot on the plane. It took them out over the Indian Ocean and that's where it ended."

Nightwing: "To link up with Black Manta?"

(Y/n): "That was my first thought but it wouldn't make any sense. Mantas craft don't have the ability to dock with the type of plane the Bialyans were using. I have a few suspicions, I'll look into it as soon as possible."