Unfriendly Skies - [The Outsiders/Birds of Prey]

[Deleted]

The Batcave

Darkness and dampness, nothing but the sounds of bats screeching in the caves and the sound of the tacking away at keys did the underground layer of the Batcave sound.

Slow and steady wins the race; the phrase made sense to an extent, though it only banked on the rabbit actively taking breaks along the track. Oracle had to act fast, there wasn’t a moment to waste as it seemed every time she tried her best to break open the conspiracy, another wall would be thrown up that she had to hurdle. The hacker needed more agents, and with the all impending doomsday clock ticking away, though she didn’t want to make the mistake that making haste and moving fast was the same as actually going somewhere. For a while it seemed like she was ramming her head into a brick wall as little bits and pieces flew off; if only she did it long enough maybe the wall would come down. Oracle rolled her wheels back for a moment, looking at several enormous screens with information flowing on each one, pop ups coming up and closing immediately.

Four months had passed since she had dealt with the accident of the Central City Rogues in her clock tower, and the city, along with her own money and a generous loan from the Wayne Foundation; it was still in repair, but more than half complete. This meant that all her superhero work had to be done from the second most powerful computer in all of Gotham City; the Batcomputer. The redhead now had all the benefits of staying at Wayne Manor as well, a butler who would tend to her every need, a nice hot meal that was expertly cooked, elegant bathrooms, and a bed that felt like what a cloud would dream of sleeping on. Barbara even freed up most of Alfred’s work on the computer in helping Bruce protect the city, it seemed like a win-win for the both of them. Though one thing always bugged her; she didn’t make it by herself. It just seemed like Bruce was just giving things, and though she knew he didn’t feel sorry for her, but she couldn’t help but feel like it was just a bunch of gifts to make her feel happy. If she was being honest, she knew it was just the kind of person Bruce was.

And then there was now. Oracle looked over schematics, everything that was happening pointed towards Russia. The news forecasts all were talking about civil war; there were already prisoner of war executions, riots, and mainly a shift of power. She already had one agent in the field, but she was grossly outgunned, and all the work she had been doing up to this point had been purely clandestine, Oracle needed to get loud; she needed to let the opposing governments know they can’t push around their people like a pawns on a chessboard.

Contact Agent: Black Canary
Deal Coordinates: 55. 7500° N, 37.6167° E
Transfer: (505) 871-55525
Transfer: (813) 954-73512
Transfer: (219) 786-19752
Transfer: (000) 000-00000
Extract Code: Birds of Prey
Password: Cassandra
The dial tone was a familiar one, but all the most frustrating as time went on, and three rings became seven rings. Finally on the tenth ring, Black Canary picked up.

“Dinah, did I call at a bad time?”
“When is there ever a good time to call me in a country on the brink of civil war?”
“I don’t hear gunshots.”
“Hopefully there won’t be any, Oracle.”
“How much intel did you receive on Pendenski’s Weapon’s program?”
“Not much. Look, I’m working on it. I just need a few more months.”
“I’m afraid we don’t have that kind of time. I’m going to be sending you back-up.”
“That’s a relief. Who?"
“I don’t know, but you’ll need it.”
“That’s less of a relief, but you’re right. I do need some back up. The last POW I tried to escavate…”
“Died in your arms… I know. Camp Brnsko was rough on you. I’m sorry. At least you know that General Granza was a good man.”
“I-… I don’t know Oracle.”
“Look, get out of wherever the hell you are and we can regroup. You don’t have to go anywhere for now.”
“Okay, Black Canary: out.”
“Take care Dinah. Oracle: out.”

Barbara leaned back in her chair after the conversation was over, she hadn’t noticed it but it seemed as if Alfred was on top of everything, including reminding her to eat. A plate with toast and jam along with a cup on a dish filled with a creamy latte sat next to her. She was working so hard she hadn’t even noticed it until now.

There was still more work to be done. She had to think of some sort of back up that would be strong enough; Justice League was handling much bigger global issues now, and Justice Society was busier working in house. There was always Batman’s very own Justice League though, when he pretended to quit and start his own. Bruce never was one to conform to authority. The Outsiders, they seemed like the people for the job. It was a lucky thing that Dick had recently visited and gave her the IP address earlier, so she could work as IT on his mainframe. She had hacked into his server before, she could do it again.

---

At the Outsider’s Hideout

The main computer shut off, the screen went black; it was all about theatrics at this point. What seemed to be a glitch soon revealed itself in Oracle’s glory, text appeared to cut in and out as it read: “This is Oracle. Is anyone present?”

[Roy Harper - Arsenal]

Life for a super hero could be simple. Get to bed early, hmmm, say 4 or 5 am after several hour night shift dealing with goons or more like monsters last night. Wake up late in the morning, well being past 12 its nearly considered morning, but with this life its easy to lose track of time. Roy hadn’t even woken in his own bed, as he’d simply crashed down in his bunker. The Outsider’s bunker if we’re being fancy, but half the time he just felt like it was his. He was the one here more often then anyone else. He’d been so exhausted after the mission, he just couldn’t be bothered driving the extra few minutes back to Bludhaven and gamble with the chance of rattling walls keeping him from sleeping. So rather Roy just hit a pillow in his room at the bunker and had completely zoned out to the world. Until now of course. There was still some remaining sleep in his eyes, but somehow he never really counted on ever getting a proper rest. He hardly even remembered what it was like. Rubbing the corners slightly with his hands and stretched his arms. Before his feet hit the ground. Grabbed at a pair of pants over a chair in the room and pulled them on, one leg at a time. Slipped on a white tee and a red plaid shirt, he didn’t bother with any of the buttons. Nor did was he overly mindful about his bed hair, just gave a little tousle as he gave a quick look in the mirror. It was less likely there was anyone else still in the bunker, but even there was, he was hardly caring to impress. Though Roy probably be confident enough to think he hardly needed to try at times. He’d also say he wasn’t Superman, so don’t expect uptight perfection or super speed. Despite his nickname speedy, he wasn’t feeling his Speedy self as he wandered from his room and towards the more open areas of the bunker.

The bunker was and never would be like Titans Tower. As far a big lounge area. Play areas and overly large kitchen. So it wasn’t homely in that sense and what zone areas there were, were small. As Roy pulled for a mini fridge, somewhat near a small eating area and sofa. Pulling out a couple of eggs and bacon. Somewhere in the bench beside, he pulled for a little pan and got his little stovetop going. Popped some bread in a toast. All whilst humming a small tune, whilst cooking his breakfast. He was here enough that, some set up was easier so he didn’t need to go somewhere for a quick meal. It wasn’t fancy by any means though, but Roy was quite used to the basics. Despite he had lived with a billionaire in his teen years, he was raised within a native tribe, so somethings were just instinct… Well, Roy was no Gordon Ramsey, but he could cook well enough to sustain himself. Satisfy somewhat, it really depended on what. Eggs. Bacon. Toast that was easy. With a little flip of his eggs, his breakfast was soon ready to serve. Roy could have been elegant enough to place it all lovely in a plate. He just laid out the toast lightly buttered and topped with the eggs and bacon, then put the other piece of toast on top. Sandwiching it. He put it on a plate just so he wasn’t so much of a cave dweller and get crumbs everywhere. Poured and grabbed himself some juice. Then he took his little gathering to his usual seat at the wall of computer screens. Somewhere still on, Roy flicked some more on as he placed his plate and glass on the bench. Checked the weather. News. Anything that may pop out and of course any sports updates he missed, it was less important, but still important. Roy grabbed his sandwich and took a large bite, he was starving, he liked his eggs still a little runny on the inside, so naturally it burst and hand ran a little down his hand. In his attempt to catch it, he almost burnt his tongue as he cursed under his breath… Whilst his eyes were averted momentarily, he hadn’t been paying attention as some of the monitors connected to the main computer were seemingly switching themselves of.

Once he seemingly got rid of the burst yolk. Then Roy reverted his eyes back to the computers and screens. Suppose if there was ever a natural excuse to curse like a sailor, this was one of them, as Roy definitely spoke foul and unholy words. Not completely unlike how he swears each and every other day. What can one say, he doesn’t exactly have a filter for his mouth. He wasn’t naturally tech-savvy as Cyborg, though for obvious reasons, but Roy wasn’t without techno skills. You could say working alongside Cyborg even helped, Roy could even build his own robots, though generally in a smaller scale… So Roy despite over reacted, became hitting keys to try and sort it out. Nothing so far was working and it definitely wasn’t a power outage. He tried to ignore the possibility of a hack job, but he had to come to a conclusion that was an option. Even if it was seemingly impossible. No one, should fucking know anything about this place, save Outsiders, Cyborg and perhaps Batman. Somehow this seemed less Batman’s style, he could have just crashed in like he’s done before… Hmmm, suppose Cyborg could have been pulling something, but it didn’t seem much his style. Hacking into Roy’s personal laptop maybe, but not Outsider’s operations. Though Roy naturally sent a ping to Cyborg to give him the heads up, as his tech helped Roy build the bunker, maybe something was happening his end… Then even as he had pressed send. Some text appeared on the larger screen before him, from someone, who apparently was kind enough to given them their name… This was definitely someone he didn’t know who had hacked him and he couldn’t say he was happy to wake up to this. However he’d play along with this. Obviously with the said question, they had hacked in any spy ware that could look into the Bunker its self, or they would have seen Roy right at the screen and not even in his Arsenal suit.

Red 99: Yes! Who or What is Oracle? 

Roy typed he wasn’t about to give either one of his names, so just gave a random codename for now. However chances are if they were looking for the bunker, they were looking for the Outsiders and Arsenal was much of a stretch. Whoever the hell was Oracle, was certainly beyond him. Though he expected they’d reveal who or least what they wanted soon enough. In the mean time as he waited, all but forgetting his breakfast now. Roy sent a signal to all Outsiders. Nightwing. Supergirl. Starfire. Whether they were here already or not. To let them know the bunker had been breached by a source called Oracle and potentially at risk if not under attack. That it was important for them to regroup. As there was no telling what this Oracle knew or what they were seeking to get out of them.

[Deleted]

Oracle made the deduction that she was speaking with Roy Harper, she didn’t want to assume anything, yet she wasn’t exactly sure if he was alone or with if she was even speaking with Arsenal. There was no hiding it anyway, Dick knew who she was, and she had to get to the point. She plucked the cup off her dish and she took a sip of her latte before answering any questions, Barbara needed to mentally prepare herself. The hacker knew that she wasn’t going to be as secretive as she normally was, Canary needed help, and there was no time to waste.

“I am the coordinator of a small team of agents, and I’m extending a line of help. Right now, Black Canary needs your help in the war torn Russian soil.”

That should be enough, awaiting another response only required his yes or no, though his connection with Dinah could be enough for him to agree, hopefully with the combined power and influence of a Kara and Kory would be enough if they were going.

[Roy Harper - Arsenal]

Tense? No, this wasn’t Roy tense. Wary, maybe. You had to be, right? When some unlikely hacker or bug was potentially aiming for an attack. No doubt there was an over whelming rolling over in his brain as to how this was even fricken possible. This bunker was loaded with firewalls, even the government would have no idea. Of course, having been linked previous, it made hiding from them a lot easier. Though it seemed who ever or what ever this was somehow broke in. Roy needed to make sure to correct it, so it wouldn’t happen again. He had enough trust issues as it is, he be almost one step to question all of the outsiders, but he wasn’t about to jump there. Not yet. For the moment Roy’s eyes stared for what seemed like minutes at the screen after he had typed. The words just sat there… Waiting for the response. Roy took a sip from his own refreshment, but he couldn’t entirely tell you what it tasted like. Call it a reflex. No, he wasn’t tense. Not entirely. There was just. So many ways this could swing and well, this really hadn’t been how Roy expected to wake up too. Yet, somehow he imagined he should be kicking himself, cos when wasn’t something unexpectedly happening? There the rather bright green text began appearing again on the screen in front of him. Whilst this Oracle gave some information on who it was or what it was, it sure wasn’t detailed. It was least something, but probably not exactly enough to deem a whole lot of trust. Sure, when help was brought up. It took a little more of his attention, before Canary certainly grabbed it. It sure put a couple dots together… Russian soil, what the hell was Dinah doing in Russia? With Oracle taking up most of his computers, it didn’t lend for Roy to do very much searching on this potential lead or in turn hack into satellites himself. Of course, he was a little more subtle. With what technology he did have working. He did certainly attempt in connecting to Dinah with all the previous contacts he had known, but they did not end up connecting. Roy had expected as much, it been a while since he’d heard or contacted her… He needed whatever information this Oracle could give him… Even if Roy couldn’t still completely trust it. With a subtle pause, Roy began typing back.

Red 99: What is Black Canary’s position? I’ll need any and all information you can give us… I’m not about to let the team walk into a trap. You must understand, as for the last time… Well, lets just say I still have scars.

It wasn’t exactly so black and white of a yes or no answer, but it was still very much a yes in response. Whilst Roy would certainly do anything to help particularly a former team mate, it was certainly not the first he had been trapped. Of course Roy was more on the side this was real, he had to be object enough to have some caution. After all, this Oracle was the one hacking in with not much of anything to go and asking him to bring his team to Russia. He was going to need a little bit more to go on. He couldn’t exactly search it for himself whilst Oracle commanding his computers, though he expected she’d have the information. Particularly Dinah’s exact location, coordinates. It certainly would help given how fricken big Russia was. Its not to say Arsenal nor the Outsiders wouldn’t be ready to take it all. Roy half expected his team would be here, now if not soon. They need to prime as much and quickly as they could. Whilst his head was playing somewhat rational, his heart was perhaps a little less, if Dinah was seriously taking on a war without back up. If Dinah was working with Oracle, it sure explained the lack of communications, well some of it, rest could probably be blamed on Roy.

[Deleted]

She could see it, she could see everything. Ever key typed, every stroke of the mouse. He was trying to call Dinah. She had to think quickly, it could be dangerous if he did somehow get in contact with her. Not that he would.

Barbara took a deep breath, the silence of the cave was getting to her, and she knew if she played any calming music it would just bounce off the cave walls and stalagmites. Taking a sip from her coffee cup, Babs wasn’t about to like where this was going to go. She knew that the Outsiders had a bunker which was secure; the redhead just didn’t like giving vital information out. Still, Oracle caved.

“Deal Coordinates of Black Canary’s location: 55. 7500° N, 37.6167° E. Moscow, Russia.”

Barbara couldn’t help but feel like she betrayed Dinah by giving out her location, yet she knew she had to either way.

“Don’t try calling her. She’s safe for now, but I can’t assure that she will be. If Dick Grayson is around, he can vouch for me. I’m not ready to give away my identity just yet.”

The hacker knew for a fact that she wasn’t speaking with Nightwing, otherwise, he would have recognized her screen name instantly. Oracle tapped into Dinah’s receiver just to see how she was doing; there wasn’t much time she wasn’t listening to Dinah in her earpiece, but she needed all hands on deck when speaking with Outsiders, just to keep the connection stable.

There were gunshots now, somewhere someone was either shooting at Black Canary or she was observing a gunfight. Either way, her safety was her top priority. Barbara returned to her conversation with Red 99.

“I’ll patch her through to you when I know she’s safe.”

[Dick Grayson - Nightwing]

At the time Dick had received the message from Roy, he had been at work. The message came through on her personal cell considering he kept it on him at work and such alarmed messages could reach his cell from the Outsiders and Batman. He had a limit to what counted as an emergence considering the squabble that had gone on in the past between teams and family.

He had just been returning from his lunch break when the message had come through.

Shit. That was the one downfall to knowing someone with a photogenic member or sharing information and not thinking twice with someone you knew and trusted. Babs still had the ip number from the time she helped him out.

Mental note: next time interacting with Oracle, don't give out ip address unless you expect her to use it again.

Dick sent a message back to Roy as he was walking back to the offices. He'd ask to learn on base of a family emergency. He hadn't pulled anything like that in a long while, so it would work out fine.

message to Roy: Chillax. I can explain when I get there.

He wasn't about to text out all that information. Now he knew he'd be walking into a throw down if Roy got the chance. Information given out to an outside source unknowing. Dick wasn't sure if he should admit that it had been a mistake or if it would be better to just say he knew the person and figured the help would come in handy. Ok, both would be putting him in a situation. Though saying he knew the person and that it was a trust worth person was on the better balance. He didn't need to be hit upside the head for confidential info getting out.

Dick gave his excuses to the chief and was then on his way out. He was already ready incase of an emergency to suit up and head out. Then to exit the ease and escape his city without much attention to the fact Nightwing was out during the day.

He went at top speeds to get there to defuse the situation. There was no telling when Kory would get there. And Supergirl, well she would get there in the blind of an eye if she wanted to. Though he was sure the kid had to deal with slipping out of classes to do so.

Nightwing pulled into the bunker not long after the first message had reach him. The other incoming information on why Oracle had done this had yet to come.

It hadn't taken Nightwing long to spot and unsuited up Roy standing by the computers.

"I know who Oracle is. Someone who can be trusted," is what Nightwing's first words were to hopefully subside any anger towards him. (not likely)

Nightwing crossed the room and joined Roy near the computers.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

More often, especially these days or mornings. After whatever amount of sleep was received, it was often Dick now first out the door, for work. Sometimes, even shockingly early, for him. It had usually been Kory that was up giggling like the golden morning rooster, echoing from the shower or more prominently the balcony. To best greet the day and soak in her needed energy boost. Much sometimes she’d lost the night before… However, this morning was slightly different. In that she had in fact been woken before Dick. From signally from her Titans communicator, that was a slightly different signal from her Outsiders signal. From glance at the bedside clock, flickering 5:27 am. The sounds all, but grumbled, luckily for him he still had at least two hours. Kory pulled for her communicator also beside her. The message had been sent directly from Cyborg, who had sensually brought the new generation together, with the generous help of Gar and Kory. They were still very much the strong force of the team, until the new Titans were prepared enough to go on there own. The message was small, but direct. Emergency. Earthquake. We need you, Goldie! It was also, very Vic. They needed her power. With as much as a simple kiss. Kory had slipped her golden feet out of bed. To eventually pull on her Starfire outfit and finishing with the snap of her communicator on the wrist of her glove. Which really just looked like a gem in appearance. With not even a comb through her hair, somehow it hardly ever mattered. Her fiery red hair always managed to coil in curls naturally. Jumping from her balcony, Kory took to the sky as only a tamaranean could and freely. Wasted no time in her decent towards New York.

Whilst there hadn’t been any direct details as to exactly where. it hadn’t been needed, as the rumbling. Particularly the vibrations in a certain section of the city was clear to see. Feel even. It was least assuring it wasn’t the entire city, but the one section it was hitting. Was certainly intense enough and certainly warranted attention. Aid. As Starfire flew closer, eyeing the people that had ran for safety. She could also as Cyborg in her ear now, ushered her to where they were located and soon she could very much make out the other Titans who had already taken action. Helping people to safety, as their apartments and some businesses threatened to crash down upon them. Without hesitation. Starfire moved in quick to aid with her assistance. With her strength, flight and power. To help battle through the shaky ground they were on and help get the people out of harms way. It certainly was no easy nor short task, when there was potentially hundreds and with what debris did fall, that potentially blocked any hope of them getting out on their own. Of course with a team like the Teen Titans. They worked together seamlessly. Slightly different from the previous team, but the new team most certainly had plenty of potential. They were certainly coming into their own at this point. There was certainly very little mishaps so far. Everything apart from the actual earthquake was running smoothly. Just a little jolts here and there. Steadily they had gotten most people free from the buildings, but then as the sensations slightly started to grow. The last building they were trying to evacuate, began to crack. Particularly at the higher levels. The Titans picked up more intense speed, they now needed to get them all out as quickly as the could. No time to waste and Starfire certainly carried a lot of the weight. Carrying four. Even five people at a time. When it was down to the last few. She’d come out with three. There would have almost been a sigh of relief the moment her purple boots dreaded upon the pavement. As the first two unhooked from her hands and clambered to safety with the others. The police. Firefighters. Family. Titans. Across the street, but it wasn’t far enough. As evident before the third person could leave Starfire’s arms. Did then the building over head started falling and almost leaning. As if in even her swift glance at the mix of metal and glass coming in their direction. She instinctually covered the small girl she’d cradled and with all the power. Energy she could build in her hand. Starfire unleashed a force with her star bolts. Coming out so swiftly and firmly. So broadly. It very much acted like a shield, not just over them, but many that was also in the area. With every bit of strength, her muscle in her arm began only so slight to tremble. She certainly couldn’t hold it forever, even for her, but it was long enough. Enough the small girl was helped from her arms from green like tentacles and taken to a more safer area.

”Is it clear? Is everyone accounted for?”

Starfire’s voice called out, with just the trace of it shaking. Trembling from the strength she was unleashing. Containing. With the slight, carefully turn of her head. Her eyes locked onto Cyborg. For assurance. To know when it was safe for her to let go. ‘Clear, Star’ His voice assured, though there was still that slight hesitance. ‘Affirmative’ came shiftily as if Vic read her own emotions. It certainly eased her mind. Eased the force of her hand. The shield force she had created, blasted through most of what was falling, but it wasn’t going to be enough to stop the inevitable. With not enough time to fly out of the way. The rubble and broken up debris fell upon the tamaranean. Enough force it did cause her to fall to the ground. Half burying her in the process, but it wasn’t enough to kill her. She could carry the weight enough, unlike humans. It was sort of instant and in the most random time. Or fitting time. That her communicator went off, only the red flash came from her other wrist. From the Outsiders. Starfire struggled her way through the debris, even star bolting the more larger pieces. Of course she was half met with Cyborg’s helping hand, she happily took his guidance and his own level of strength as he pulled her to her feet. A half attempt at brushing some of the dirt she’d collected, but it was rather fruitless. Also rather not important. As Starfire checked the message sent. X’hal! It really seemed the day for it.

”X’hal! The Bunker’s been preached… I have to go… But, I can stay if you need me, Vic! ”

The tamaranean remarked to Cyborg as the shock fell from her face, perhaps that was more classified information to share, but this was Cyborg. He knew the Outsiders, even the bunker. Which was clear from his reaction from the little detail she shared, he more than understood and expressed his own distaste at someone or something threatening the system he helped built. Of course the finer word in that was Helped, not that he would totally turn his nose to Roy’s technic skills. “We should be cool here now, Goldie. Your free to go… Tell Harper, I have the back up if he needs it. When I’m free, I can come and give it a needed reboot… Thanks again, Star!” Cyborg informed in his response, but with his needed to get back to the rest of the group. Along with the need of Starfire to get back to Gotham. There was no time to linger around. With a little agree, a nod and perhaps a simple friendly hug. She was always happy to be here as she was happy to get back to Gotham.

Picking herself back up to the sky, in her rather filthy state than when she had arrived. The cool breeze in the air, least helped to get a little bit of the dusty off, but she really couldn’t do much with the rest. She really wasn’t so bothered, who’s to say she wouldn’t just get dirtied up again with whatever was happening in the bunker. Shooting from city to city like a fire ball. Suppose there was that slight concern as to how she should enter and even if she could, but she threw it to the wind. Taking the chance through one of the very well concealed entrance in the outskirts of Gotham in a trunk of a tree. Leading her through a winding tunnel, that brought her through the back. Motioning through the gym area. She could already hear the typing. The familiar voice, just as they came into view as she turned the corner and walked into the main centre of the Bunker. Where the computer screens were. Where Roy sat and Dick stood cautiously behind. She could tell, from the slight guarding in his stance. His words and the mentioning of this thing called Oracle, certainly caused her curiosity. Sure she’d wished he tell her more, than lingering strands of hope, but suppose it really only mattered that he trusted who ever this was… As was evident again in his words now, but it only helped to raise confusion.

”If whoever this Oracle is, you consider a friend… Why didn’t they just contact you? Greetings…!”

Starfire’s voice popped out, perhaps to them unaware. Least until now, at the sight of her a few steps behind. Still with a golden glow, but it certainly was dampened by the amount of dirt. Marks, the debris had left on her skin. Even as evident at the temporary bruises now forming on different parts of her skin, that probably heal in a couple of hours. Along with the cut upon her bottom lip. Of course there was also the now rather tousled, tangled red that was her hair. Clear signs she’d already seen battle before lunch… Of course it didn’t stop the rather half gleaming smile she offered in her greeting, showcasing that she was here. She hadn’t just popped out of the ground or space. Motioning closer distance to see the writing on the screen so far. Her green eyes carried around the place. All the blackened screens. All these earthly signs that was one was hacked… Although, it did seemed evident that who ever it was… Came in peace? Russia…? War…? She’d actually known somethings about this, not in finer details, but from the mission that had called for the Titans in the east…

”Vic, told me to tell you, Roy. Well to remind you he has the back up… Are we going into battle?”

Resting her hand upon the lengthly table surface in front, before leaning a little against it, as she turned her head to Roy. Passing on the message about the back up. She’d let on about the potential reboot later. It didn’t look like they’d have the time anytime soon… From the looks they were very much being called to Russia. Curiously asked if they were answering this. At the mentioning of Black Canary, it seemed very likely. If it really was war torn. A war zone, Starfire may very well be prepared for this. Well, despite her physical appearance currently, but she was warrior. She was trained for battle. For war. Not that was exactly gleam in her eyes!

[Roy Harper - Arsenal]

The hairs still very much tickled at the back of his neck, but at least this was all going somewhere. Between ticked off. Confused. Terrified at what Dinah had actually gotten herself into. Despite whatever troubles had come between the Green Arrow and himself, it had not circled at around Dinah. Roy very much considered her a close friend. Someone incredibly important and who’d more than on one occasion helped him. Helped him, when Oliver had thrown him out. There was a level of guilt washing over him, that perhaps he should have kept more directly in touch. Despite not being in the direct circle. He’d always expected they were still a phone call away… Not, so much land between. He couldn’t even find any previous route that worked to connect. Really, he couldn’t expect any less… However, no it hadn’t been the first time one had used friends as a leverage before. Only to end up a trap. Whilst instincts could suggest Oracle was really needing help, it was still very little to go on… He waited there after he’d sent his last message. It sat there unanswered. Maybe it was gamble to think they’d actually sent him the location, but there was no fucking way he was sending his team in blind. Besides, if this was really Dinah in trouble, maybe if this was anyone else, then perhaps she’d be pissed, but this was Roy. The moment the location came across his screen. Roy made a note of it… His eyes and attention went back as the next message came through. Almost subtly nodding to himself at the first part, feeling he’d came to realise it was almost impossible, but certainly was somewhat of a relief to hear she was safe. For however long that would be… Then, up popped Dick Grayson’s name. Not even Nightwing. Dick fucking Grayson. Clear signs if whoever the hell this was hacking into the ‘Outsiders’ bunker, knew who Nightwing was. Let alone, if they had any fricken clue who the rest of the team was… To say Roy was angry was an understatement, he couldn’t imagine Dick would be this stupid. Not to mention out of character, there is no fucking way Dick would have given the ok for this… Least, not the Dick, Roy knew. He was the fucking leader of the Teen Titans, there was no way he would have let this happen. Nor, the Batcave… Perhaps in the back of Roy’s anger he could rationalise that who ever was doing this, despite knowing Dick, was potentially doing it behind his back… As Roy maintained his bottle from exploding. His eyes sat upon Oracle not wanting to give they’re identity away… It all, but clicked. Roy had a good hunch who this was. There was only so many people that would know Dick’s secret and Roy knew most of them. They wouldn’t have hacked. Batman would have just crashed and there was no way this was Tim. Whilst Roy didn’t know Barbara Gordon personally, he was aware enough to know there was change in the Batgirl persona caused by The Joker. He may have bound her to a chair, but he hadn’t bound her from a computer. From the ways Dick had talked about her to Roy, they were best friends, they tell each other all kinds of things… Least that was the hunch Roy was feeling, but who knows, maybe it was a hunch!

Red 99: I don’t need your identity… Just pass Black Canary this screen name!

Roy sent the message back, keeping his cool enough and kept it simply. Dinah was perhaps the only one he could trust and damn sure cared about. Despite his hunch or not, knowing Oracle wasn’t going to help any less. He didn’t need it. Least not now. Getting help to Dinah was all the mattered… That and to get the Outsiders together. Almost at the instant, Roy got a ping from the little blue bird himself. Seriously…? Chillax? He turned back to his lame ass catch phases when he’s caught red handed. Roy didn’t respond. All he could think to say… Would have been point less. Nothing Dick couldn’t have figured out himself… Suppose it was at least assuring from Dick’s confirmation. Oracle wasn’t a liar… With what time there was after his message. Roy hadn’t waited long. The echo of the engine entering the bunker. Roy didn’t even bother to turn. Look. Confront. It was just as well, as Oracle’s following message came through.

Red 99: Thank-you! I’ll get the team together… Keep us informed!

There perhaps was a hint of a smile or at least something through the stern look he had. Knowing at least Oracle was helping Dinah. He couldn’t entirely throw stones, least not that direction entirely. If Oracle’s reasons had simply been to get help, then it made all the sense in the world, on her part… Dick allowing this to happen like this… Not so much, not even a heads up… Dick’s voice then cut through the space whatever, he was trying to put between them. As Roy half looked over his shoulder, the moment he’d pressed the send button. Roy half sent a glare of imaginary arrows. Before his gaze glanced at the screen again. Before he pushed himself a little from the table and got to his feet. Seriously under suited. Looking down, practically ignoring Dick in the moments. Of course, his attention half diverted when Starfire had come in from behind them. At her question, he had to wonder the same thing, well maybe not in those words entirely. Roy glanced at Starfire, but his gaze soon met Nightwing. The look on Roy’s face was certainly not a happy one. Perhaps it was a good thing Roy was so angry at Dick, he didn’t want to deal with this, they didn’t have the time.

”Seriously, Dude! Don’t! Not now… I don’t want to hear it… If whoever this Oracle is, is telling the truth. Black Canary needs our help, thats all that matters right now… Make no mistake about it, when this is all said and done. You best revaluate your assets or you won’t be setting foot in here again. For whatever reason you opened this door, you best close it or I will!"

Roy was far too peeved at him to even punch him, despite the white across his knuckles. He was still his best friend. His team partner. There be a silver lining, but he did know him. How Dick was behind this, Roy just didn’t need to deal with. He most was thankfully they had mission. It gave him something to at least focus on. Of course before Roy made another step, he did need to make one thing clear. Dick needed to fix this, so this wasn’t going to happen again. That Roy didn’t need to question loyalty, to question who else he would pass information to and this wouldn’t happen again. If Oracle hacked in, who’s to say what gate she left in for anyone else. Someone that wasn’t a friend. Roy was certainly going to need to rewire the entire system. Was, he entirely looking forward to that, no! Least then as Starfire approached and reminding him of the back up. He might not have to do it all from scratch, but it may be a good idea if he did.

”Thank-you, little good its gonna do for us now… I’m completely locked out… Yes, it seems like it, Star… Though you already look like you’ve seen battle… Are you good to suit up again?”

That at least cause Roy to relax a little bit, but he was still quite frustrated. As even if he hit any keys to try anything. He was completely locked out. Completely knocking at his pride and there was little he could do about it. No need. No time to get to New York to receive the back up. It be a long process anyway… Roy half breathed a sigh. Half looking at his breakfast he’d barely touched and couldn’t even feel hungry if he tried. Responding to Starfire, that they could very much expect this to be a battle. War. There was little to go on to what exactly they were walking into. Although as he’d settled. Enough to actually take in everything. The filthy appearance that not covered the tamaranean, he did have to wonder if she was ok as he looked concerned. He’s been so wrapped up, had he seriously missed an earthquake. To that, he took his plate. His glass. Motioned towards the little kitchen area. Threw whatever in the bin and tossed the rest in the sink. Went to find his gear!

[Deleted]

Tapping into the microphones of the base, Oracle wasn't done with them just yet. She felt bad for using Dick, but it was the price that had to be paid, a sacrificial offering to help save Dinah's life. Saving Private Lance.

Russia was in the midst of Civil War, with groups and factions at war with each other, a shift of power was threatening the lives of civilians. Everyone was moving out. To Asian countries as well as the rest of Europe. Several deadly factions were experimenting with forces alien to bring the country into submission.

Oracle then took the liberty to use the Outsider's printer. Several tickets for Gotham Airways printed out, then another sheet that didn't seem related to the tickets. It read "ASK FOR HANGER 52" A generally unknown hanger for the sake that it was installed only a month ago with mobster money to house one of Oracle's Magnum Opus. A mobile base, the Aerie One.

The Super Jet outfitted with enough technology that Barbara could live there for a month, was given as a gift to her by Ted Kord of Kord Industries as a gift. It's outfitted with cloaking, several decoy jets for enemy radar, hacking capabilities, satellite proof, basic metahuman and orthodox countermeasures, virtual armor (capable of withstanding Superman's heatvision,) remote controlling for various features, equip with offensive rocket, as well as a high powered engine that can allow for travel up to mach 5. She has been known to go mobile and operate entirely out of Aerie One.

Mysterious as the instructions were, it would all be made clear in a few hours. For now, Barbara felt that this would be the perfect opportunity for a little outreach program. She had been following the pursuits of a particular Gotham vigilante for the last month and a half. She decided to reveal herself to her.

Yet another hack, it was now as easy and mindless as breathing, Oracle sent a mini-virus to the cellphone of Noelle Carpenter.

[Deleted]

Sticky from sweat build up, there was nothing like the bed and rooming in the Justice Society Headquarters. It wasn’t unlike Carpenter to bundle herself in multiple layers of sheets—stolen from other unused beds—and hide herself from the morning sun. The strange thing was her phone; its alarm was being set off. Carpenter never set an alarm. Christ, what time is it? Too early. Whatever time it was, it was always too early to wake up.

Peeling her eyes open and reaching her arm to shut the phone off, it slammed against the nightstand and missed the source of the noise entirely. Cursed enhanced senses made it impossible to lower the loudness of the alarm, yet missing her mark entirely; it was beginning to seem like more and more it was selective senses, instead of enhanced. Sonovabitch. She sat up, revealing her pasty white skin from the covers; snatching the phone and shutting off the alarm. The alarm had a note, which she barely noticed. But it was there, she saw it and it was too late to not see it. It was only three words in a strange font.

“Job. Money. Interested?”

The vampire was confused. She hadn’t set the alarm, who did? What did it mean? Shaking her head, Carpenter was about to toss her phone back to the nightstand when a text message from the number 672-253 came in that read “Get dressed.” Okay, freaky. Really freaky. Someone was watching her. She instinctively almost brought the covers over her nakedness but thought it silly. She was in complete darkness, no morning sun bled through the windows. What kind of camera was her stalker looking through? Sitting there for a moment, things began to click, her phone was getting hacked, and she was being watched through the front facing camera on her phone. Whoever was doing it probably saw at the selfies she took with Ky and Charles. Why was she more embarrassed about that then she was about being seen naked?

Carpenter decided she was going to text back just to find out who her mystery stalker was, when she received yet another text message from the same number: “$250,000 was wired to your bank. The rest when the job is done.” The rest? Carpenter couldn’t believe what she was reading, she wasn’t sure if whoever this person was, was telling the truth. Her laptop lit up by itself, and her bank account was already up showing the transfer of cash. Showing, this hacker was legit. The part time writer never saw her account have so many zeroes before. Carpenter decided to finish her text message.

“Where?”