FunnyGuy

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Derby-King Outfit

Time:1 p.m.
Location: Race Track
Interaction: @Blizz Lyra
Mention:

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1 p.m.

After several minutes and getting a tray of snacks to himself he set on the white cloth-covered table, Lorenzo eyed the race track with a satisfied grin. The racers were ready.

“Kier, I think it's time but finish your nibbling my dear friend. I can handle the rest” Kier was indulging in the diced salami on the tray, something Lorenzo couldn't interrupt. He grabbed the megaphone once more and stepped away from the table and towards the track while digging into one of his pockets. From it, he pulled out a sheet of paper with a scribbled list on it.

“Ladies and gentlemen, take your seats as the race will be starting in mere moments!” He looked at the sheet with focus before shaking his head at what was written. On the paper was the name of the horses participating in the race but he wasn't very excited to be calling out what was listed. He had to be a showman this evening and he couldn't do that with names like these. Discarding the paper to the ground, he dug into his pocket again, this time pulling out a gold flask with the image of a bouquet engraved into one of its sides. Tucking the megaphone under his arm he opened it up and took a good swig of its contents.

His eyes shut momentarily as the elixir went down smoothly.

“Perfect.” He said softly before placing the flask back into his pocket and taking a firm hold of the megaphone. “Alright, before we begin this magnificent test of speed and endurance, we need to announce and celebrate our participants. With the betting tables closed, ensure you retain your tickets! I typically keep mine in my breast pocket to be safe! It's the safest pocket in my opinion! And speaking of opinions! I see many wonderful hats! The competition is fierce! But, before we get to that, we have a race to watch!” Lorenzo pointed toward the start line.

“In lane one we have…. the elegant, the brave, the heartbreaker… Dastardly Daphodile!” People looked on in slight confusion as Lorenzo literally renamed the first horse.

“In lane two! We have the majestic… hoof beater, the sour apple eater… Drummer Boy Jack!”

“In lane three! Oh! It's her! The one horse to rule them all… the fierce, the powerful Empress Victoriaaaaaa!”

“In lane four… And I don't think I've seen him before. He's dark with the eyes of a tiger! Harder to break than steel! The knight of night… Sirrrr Ominous Dominus Black"!”

“In lane six! The beautiful… the charming darling of the kingdom… and maybe even King Danrose himself…. Edin's Finest Mistress!” His eyes finally fell on Lyra and Lady Avarice, two he was somewhat familiar with, which only filled him with more excitement. Good or bad, he'd give them the biggest introduction yet.

“And finally in lane six! In lane six?! Excuse me, everyone, I think we have a bit of a celebrity here! And I don't mean you, General Carris!” The duke chuckled. Lorenzo was primed. “Everyone knows her as Lady Avarice but those in the horse's inner circle like Kier and I know her true name! A name I'll reveal right here and now for like her rider, this horse is more than meets the eye! IN LANE SIX! THE FAMOUS! THE GRACIOUS! BUT ALSO DEADLY! QUEEN TULIP THE BITCH-SLAYERRRRR!” Lorenzo raised his arms with enthusiasm.

Young Justice

Location: Outside of the Bank, South Side
Interactions: The Team

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"So you wanna play catch huh?"

“Sure.” Viktor shrugged at the three robbers just before Talos landed on the other side of the vehicle where Zach had been to assist. He was somewhat confident Zach could hold his own there but with Vincent, it spelled a sure victory. That left Viktor with three thugs; the driver and the three that had exited from the rear of the vehicle.

They fired their weapons, and whether as a show of intimidation or incompetence, one of the robbers fired his weapon, releasing foam that hardened contact with the ground before him. One of them moved to the opened door for cover, while the other two remained at the rear.

“Catch!” With another sphere in hand, Viktor pressed down on it with his thumb and tossed it up high above the two robbers at the rear. The attention it grabbed was enough, enough to give Viktor the time he needed. Viktor sprinted forth too fast for the robber who was using the door as cover to react. The improvised barrier became the robber's undoing as the door swung closed, crushing his body painfully against the van's frame. His scream alerted the other two who took aim, but only one fired. The other fumbled backward as the sphere smacked down on the ground due to him anticipating something from it.

Tracking the barrel of the fired weapon, Viktor sidestepped and circled around as a stream of foam followed him.

“Step back! That thing he threw!” The one who was more worried about what the sphere might do warned.

“Huh?” He stopped firing and glanced down at the sphere that suddenly protruded small spikes, bouncing once less than an inch off the ground. As underwhelming as it was, Viktor made up for it as he used the smallest windows of opportunity to strike. Viktor came in and delivered a crushing kick to the wary robber's knee. Then proceeded to the other by grabbing his weapon and elbowing him in the jaw, sending him flying back without it.

With the weapon in hand, Viktor shot at the robber now reeling on the ground from his shattered kneecap. The foam was fired at his limbs to pin him to the ground.

Viktor couldn't help but feel fortunate to have the opportunity to wrap his hands around another firearm. The dart rifle nor this hi-tech rifle were conventional, something he was more used to but they still struck him with a bittersweet nostalgia. There were no lives taken every time he squeezed the trigger, and somewhere deep inside, that made him feel grateful.

“I'm going to put this to use.” Viktor stated as he looked over to find Vincent had used the door to his advantage as well. The driver was now on the floor beneath the door he attempted to use as cover. Good. He then watched as that same robber's gun was hit by lightning from Zach, causing the weapon to spark and steam before the light it gave off died out. And even better.

Viktor turned, firing at the robber, sticking him in the door frame of the van. He intended to do this to the rest to ensure they didn't become a problem later.

“Zatara. Talos. Good work, now check on the downed officers. I'm gonna send up a status report.” Vincent and Zach would find them all unconscious. If they check the inside of the back of the van they'll find more of the strange weapons, money, and valuable items taken from the hostages inside.

“Team. Zatara, Talos, and I have dealt with the robbers and the van on the south side. No casualties and we're ensuring these guys stick around. They're mediocre at best but they're using unique weapons. So far we've identified two types of rifles. One that fires highly electrified bolas and another that fires a hardening foam. The weapons utilize some type of power supply that's vulnerable to electrical currents. Fortunately no brass, but I can't infer that for the thugs inside. We're checking on the police casualties at the moment and plan to search the van after. Any further instructions, Metamorph? Over.”

Young Justice

Location: Bank Rooftop
Interactions: The Team but mostly Zatara

---

As Viktor was dropped onto the rooftop, he contemplated how this mission would play out. It had been the first time Kila took the lead of the entire team. Viktor was confident in his ability to do so and also knew of his capacity to be decisive firsthand. In a hostage situation, this was absolutely necessary.

Exceptional. He thought as Kila briefed the team on their given tasks and the critical objectives. He didn't consider being paired with Zach favorably but he knew it was the right call. Leaving personal gripes aside, Viktor gave Kila a swift nod.

“Affirmative.” He turned toward the southern edge of the roof with Zach who levitated down below and proceeded to disable the getaway van. “My turn.” Viktor peered down the building's edge before jumping and swan-diving down. Squeezing against his torso with his arms, he activated the glider webbing in his suit that was comparable to that of a wingsuit. As he glided down he could hear the engine of the van revving as it could with no effect. When the criminals realized their attempt was fruitless thanks to Zach's quick response, they started exiting the vehicle. Three came out of the back doors while the two up front swung their doors open in frustration on the matter.

“Who the hell's that?!” The thug that exited from the passenger side shouted as he saw Zach, drawing an unrecognized long gun that was chrome in appearance. It was the weapon that had left the police officers incapacitated or worse around the vehicle.

“That's…” He actually recognized Zach due to his subscription to the young hero's YouTube channel! “Fuck just shoot him!” Viktor landed beside Zach with a roll that ended with him throwing not a knife but a spherical object into the face of the thug who exited out of the passenger side door. The solid projectile crushed against the bridge of his nose, causing him to drop his weapon as he grabbed his face.

For the first time in a long time, Viktor altered his equipment set again. It was a decision he pondered on making after the mission in Taos. Throwing a knife with his strength wasn't always warranted. Deliberate nonlethal incapacitation was something that seemed to hinder his decision-making at times, limiting his versatility. And what better projectile than one sharing the shape of an object from his favorite childhood sports game?

“Zatara, weapons malfunctions, now!” Without those, he and Zatara would wipe the floor with the remaining four.

Young Justice

-

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Derby-King Outfit

Time:1 p.m.
Location: Race Track
Interaction:
Mention:

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1 p.m.

The Duke of Veirmont enters

As he did, he exemplified a confidence that was rarely seen in him. His outfit clean, chin held high, and his furry ferret companion resting calmly across his shoulders. As he approached the table with the megaphone resting upon it, he intentionally kept himself from turning toward those in the stands to retain the utmost grace.

One might think Lorenzo would be a horrendous choice to host the race but King Edin had heard rumors of how the oaf of a Duke kept the Veirmont citizens so satisfied. Sure, the climate was wonderful there and Lorenzo's management skills weren't all that great but the man was quite the entertainer for the common man. Even during last night's debacle where most men and women who could afford to be even several steps in King Edin's vicinity were absolutely disgusted by Lorenzo's entrance, the commoners giggled and clapped. He was the jester that worked for only the commoner but also a distraction. King Edin cared little about the morale and welfare of his people but he wasn't a fool. He didn't want his people to simply be happy. He wanted them to be happily distracted. As for his royal rivals, they'd be distracted as well, even if it was angrily so. It was just the edge he needed this season… but if Lorenzo was a blade, he'd be doubly.

Lorenzo snatched the megaphone from the table, a grin gracing his face. As he rested a free hand on the table. Kier, Lorenzo's ferret, traveled down his arm, walked onto the table, and began to sniff the cloth covering it.

“Good, my friend. Good.” He whispered before stepping from the table and toward those in attendance.

“GREETINGS!!!!!!!” His voice boomed with the help of the megaphone. “I MIGHT HAVE ANNOUNCED 'GOOD CITIZENS OF SORIAN BUT WE HAVE LAVISH GUESTS FROM ACROSS EROMORAAAA! HAIL CAESONIANS!!!! HAIL VARIANS!!!! HAIL ALIDASHT!!!! GOOD PEOPLE OF EROMORA ARE YOU PREPARED TO WITNESS THE GREATEST HORSE RACE YOU'VE EVER EXPERIENCED IN YOUR LIVES?!?! BETTING TABLES ARE TO MY RIGHT! CONCESSIONS TO MY LEFT! AND FOR THE FASTEST HORSE ON THE TRACK, THERE WILL BE VICTORY!!!!” Lorenzo raised both arms in excitement before appearing slightly flushed in the face. “Pardon my manners! THE HORSE WILL BE HOSTED BY YOURS TRULY AS WELL AS…. THE BEST RACE HAT COMPETITION! THE RACES WILL BE BEGINNING SHORTLY! I AM DUKE LORENZOOOO VIKENAAAAA! And I brought the ferret!” He added the last bit with a confident nod.

Lorenzo then awaited for his next cue to introducing the talented competitors.

Young Justice

Location: Mount Justice
Interactions: Daphne

---

Viktor's interactions with his teammates during the two months between major missions were trying if not reflective for him. Kila, Kassandra, and Alisa had all made significant impressions on him. Each instance stuck with him in its own unique way, yet it was his time spent with Daphne that may have been the most peculiar.

Falling Leaves

Day Zero

Viktor had been the most conflicted at this time when approaching the tree that was Daphne. Despite not being in the mood to do so, he had assured his comatose teammate that he'd help her with some form of self-development whether she accepted it or not. His emerald eyes set on her still form. He was going to spout something rude but stopped himself when he noticed a subtle change from when he had seen her previous to the mission to Taos.

“You moved… and you're smiling… Good, but still unacceptable. Always aiming for the bare minimum, Daph. As if I'd expect anything more from you or any of them.” He circled around her, arms crossed as inspected her.

Once he was in front of her again, his expression showed dissatisfaction.

“You should know that Alisa was hurt today during our mission…” He felt a lump form in his throat but contorted his face in anger. “A mission we could have used you on. Events may have played out differently if you weren't stuck like this… If you can hear me, you'll feel as guilty as I do, but frankly, I don't care. How could you let this happen to you? To fail us… You're pathetic. You're too weak. You can't do anything right.” Though he aimed the words toward her, Daphne was not who he was truly referring to. “You weren't there for her… I- I… I wasn't there for her. I wasn't there for you either. Or Talon… You probably enjoyed hearing me say that. Hm?! Say something! Move!” Viktor performed an open-hand thrust toward her but stopped short. “Very well… Continue to be useless. As if it makes a difference.”

Day One

It was long after sunset, when Viktor approached Daphne this day. This time he took a seat on the ground in front of her but wouldn't look her in the face.

“Don't take what I said personally. I was not in my right mind. However, I will not apologize. I am here to help you get better, not become your friend.” He finally stared up at her.

“Only your smile has changed. And barely at that. Daph, you were capable of moving much more before. Even where your hand originally was. If you want to move, then will it. Take matters into your own hands for once. Have you never thought of what you might be capable of if you simply relied more on your own strength?” He paused as if awaiting a response, watching to see if any part of her shifted in response to his words.

“You think no one notices, but I do. You'd let any next person lead if it means you get to sit in the background. You let others take the lead, even when we split into smaller groups. You never take the keys to the jeep… Sure, you might think that's small but let's take everything else. What have you actually done? Hm? People like you on the team because you're pleasant, not because you're useful. And you know this. You play into it. The meals, the gifts, the way you ask to be led by whoever's leading. Not ever challenging their ideas or methods. You buy our favor with treats and sell your own initiative away.” He stood up, remaining unamused by her as he turned away once more. “Initiative… Think about what that means to you, Daph. I will return tomorrow and the days following.”

Day Thirteen

Viktor circled around the tree, hands clasped behind his back while lecturing Daphne as he had for nearly two weeks now.

“Thorns, poisons, spores… How have you not utilized these yet in the field? Don't tell me you just mimic the plants you've seen in person… Did you not try to research what other plants can do so you could replicate them? Daph… He stopped right in front of the tree with an eyebrow raised in interest. “Do you think you could grow fungi? Who knows how broad the spectrum is for your power. Try it. It's not like you have anything else going on. I'll see you tomorrow. Same time.”

Day Twenty-one

“I believe the day is coming soon. Maybe even today. Kila and I will face each other. After I've beaten him, I wish for him to simply accept my superiority... By the way, you're moving too slowly. I give you 24 hours to move and you have no other tasks, so just do it.”

Day Twenty-two

Viktor simply sat before Daphne in silence. After a few moments, he rested against the trunk of the tree sharing her view of the greenhouse area until he left for bed.

“He won… Not just in combat either. I don't enjoy being wrong but in this instance, I accept it.”

Day Thirty

Viktor had gone from circling the tree like a stern drill instructor to taking a seat at its base now. He'd gotten used to just talking about anything that came to him. He was sure Daphne would much rather enjoy that than his lecturing.

“I'm surprised you haven't tried to make fruit or even tea leaves. Then again, perhaps you've grown tired of giving. Your father was the one person who took too much… But not everything. You're still here and when you can move again, we'll work on making you better. Kila and Talon have taught you some, but I can show techniques as well. For instance, if you shorten the time it takes to transform your body into bark and focus that into your points of contact, your strikes would be faster and far more devastating.” Viktor stared blankly at her for a moment, he was still expecting to invoke a response from her. “Sometimes learning from someone else helps… Kila has been helping me understand the art rather than just the martial prowess of combat…” He paused once more, wondering if she'd even care for such a topic. “But if you're fine with the way you were, then that's fine too. Change should be accepted, not forced…”

Day Thirty-three

“Good news, Daph. Alisa has returned… A smile briefly graced his face. Only briefly. “You, however, are still in this state. I am sure you can find strength in her return. Motivation to wake up as well… He winced as his true feelings on the matter surfaced. “Though, I've begun to notice a regression in your form. You're sinking in. Shifting less… Does that mean you're giving up on us? Does it?”

Day Forty-one

“We received three new members. More people to bake for, yes? Can you believe I'm actually beginning to miss your travel meals… Some of them at least.” He shrugged his shoulders with a slight smile on his face before switching back to his neutral expression. “Anyway, the newcomers are adequate so far. I still need to continue my assessment of them. Vincent seems capable in skill but I'm not sure about his disposition.” He paused for a moment to consider how to describe the next recruit. “Pei is… hm. She has limited experience, but I can't predict her. I don't know if I like that. I probably don't.” A sigh escaped him as he thought of the final of the three. “Then there's the other one. Cora. She is somewhat like how you and Alisa were in skill when you first arrived.” His slight smile returned as he continued. “She's definitely more like you. That's if I were to swap your low confidence with her negligence. I believe we can make it work, and I won't be as much of a 'jerk' to her as I was to you. It won't be easy… for her or myself.” He gave Daphne a single nod. “But, one day at a time, right Daph?”

Day Fifty-two

“Hmm… Why are you giving up and letting yourself be taken? Everyone can see what's happening to you. No one will say it but…. at this rate, there won't be anything left of you.” Viktor held a slightly disgruntled expression as he placed a gentle hand against the tree's rough bark. At times he wished he could just pull her out of her self-made prison. “I assume when that occurs, there's no reason for me to continue doing this…” Taking a step back, he sighed. “However, I will. It's foolish for me to be so hopeful but until this tree is no more, I'll consider you present. The team is still awaiting your return, Daph. Keep fighting.” And with that he took his leave once more.

Farewell Daphne

He continued his short daily visits, despite Daphne's progression into becoming a wilting dying tree. Her face and body vanished beneath the bark, the branches remained without any more movement, and the leaves continued to fall.

The tree would die in the coming days…. That was certain, and Viktor would be there for the end…

Young Justice

---

---

One month ago...

Location. Check! Time. Check! Equipment. Check! Objective… Unknown.

Viktor found himself within the team jet looking over at the control panel to familiarize himself with each button and switch as he'd always done before a mission. Arriving fifteen minutes prior had its perks. Finally, a solo mission. I need this… He had his standard equipment loadout with his helmet tucked comfortably under his arm. All there was now was to wait for his briefing or so he thought…

Soft, resolute footsteps announced a second presence on the bridge. Kassandra stepped up, chugging a bottle of water and checking her gear one last time. She turned toward the back of the jet without acknowledging Viktor at all, though it was absolutely impossible to miss him.

“What are you doing here?” Viktor scanned over her with just his eyes, doubling down on his question concerning Kassandra's presence aboard the jet.

Kassandra uncapped a second bottle of water. "Waiting for Kila's arrival so we can begin the mission." Her voice was soft, but the tone was slathered with a clear layer of contempt. She tipped the bottle to her lips and chugged it dry within seconds. Once it was empty, she crushed the plastic flat between her palms. Only then did she fix a cold gaze on Viktor. "If there are no more asinine questions, I will be meditating for what's ahead."

“No need, you can exit and calm your mind elsewhere. I'm not sure who misinformed you but this mission is mine alone.” He nodded his head toward the bridge, his facial expression dull as ever.

Kassandra ignored his gesture for her to leave. Instead, she stuck a hand into an inside pocket of her surcoat and retrieved her comm device. It looked quite similar to a cell phone, but it was far more sophisticated. Each team member had one, locked with an individual password along with a host of other measures that none of them had clearance to know. Kassy unlocked hers and read from the screen.

“Y06 - Report to the Hangar at 1200 hours. Full gear. Details to follow. - 13.” She turned it around to show Viktor, who frowned upon reading. “I wasn't aware you outranked Black Canary. Congratulations on your advancement.” Her lips lifted in a smile, but the expression was all teeth and no pleasure. Viktor raised an eyebrow but grabbed his own device while Kassandra continued. “As I was saying - don't bother me with your nonsense. When our leader arrives and we are all gathered, there will be answers.”

“Y07 - Report to the Hangar at 1200 hours. Full gear. This mission is explicitly a solo operation. More details to follow. -13.” Viktor sighed as he knew something strange was occurring with the different orders being given. “Your leader likely isn't coming. Even if he did hold the title, which he does not, he'd be here by now. Especially before you. We're being played.”

“Good observation. Now both of you, take a seat.” Black Canary entered, appearing slightly more stern than usual. She hadn't caught all of Viktor and Kassandra's exchange but didn't need to in order to identify the tension between the two. The team's debriefing and therapy sessions after the mission in Atlantis made it apparent that Viktor and Kassandra were at odds, even if subtly. The former consistently had issues with team cohesion and sympathy for his fellow teammates while the latter had gone through great turmoil and an acutely stressful event generated by the reemergence of past trauma.

"Ah, there you are, ma'am. Our leader for today." Her gaze cut to Viktor, sharp enough to flay him open like the knife at her belt. The young man appeared to be more unamused than usual. At Black Canary's command, she settled back in the chair. Honestly, Kassandra wondered if Viktor had suffered a concussion or something. It wasn't like she was talking in riddles; all he had to do was listen and think. Who else would be leading them but the person who had signed off in the first place?

"I would love to know what this is about." The fact that Viktor was told something different irked her. Why was he told he'd be alone, and not her? Her mind produced an answer quickly, and she let out a faint, mirthless snort.

"Kila isn't coming, is he?" She addressed Black Canary, bearing respectful, but a steady fury beginning to bubble behind her eyes. "This is about us."

“Good observation.” Viktor mocked before shaking his head and taking his seat. Whatever this was, Viktor wanted to get it over and done with.

“It is about you both, Kassy and Viktor…” Black Canary trailed as her sights centered on Viktor. “But let me be clear. Another hint of that passive aggressiveness and this could be your last time seeing the inside of this jet. Understood?”

“Yes.” Viktor forced out as he tilted his head down to hide the slight clenching of his jaw.

Kassy’s mouth closed over the nasty dig she'd been readying for Viktor, so fast she almost bit her tongue. "Yes ma'am, understood."

“With that out of the way, we need to talk. More importantly, you both need to talk to each other about what occurred on your mission to Atlantis.” Black Canary's tone lightened and took a seat across from them, having garnered their full compliance. “Your individual debriefings raised some flags, which is partly why there was not an assigned team leader for the follow-on mission. The trouble between you two affects everyone else, and based on both of your personality traits, it won't be resolved unless it is brought to the forefront.” She motioned toward Kassandra, keeping her expression soft so her following words wouldn't sound like an order or a demand. “Tell me, Kassy, when did it start? What was the first instance of Viktor upsetting you?”

Kassandra's expression had completely shifted. She'd been angry before, but that feeling had done a full 180. Despite her chin being lifted and her eye contact being firm, there was fear under the surface. "Atlantis. During Atlantis."

Viktor wouldn't know it, but Black Canary had worked with the young Atlantean long enough to know the girl's subtleties. When she was burying her emotions - or burying the root of the truth. He glanced at her, wondering what she might say next. Viktor preferred to avoid revisiting the events as much as Kassandra did.

“And what was it that he did? You can be honest here. You owe it to yourself… and your teammate.” Black Canary leaned in resting her elbows on her thighs while clasping her hands, deliberately closing the space even if it was only slightly.

"He went against my orders." It was a calm statement of fact. Way too calm. Too detached to be the core issue. Her body stayed poised, as if reading off a page. "It undermined my authority during the mission, and caused confusion between team members." Black Canary refrained from digging into Kassandra's answer. Her many sessions with the young woman gave her a good deal of insight into her social cues.

“That would be something that would upset any leader for a time.” Her words were deliberate yet her intention remained just below the surface. She shifted her body to face Viktor who stared blankly back at her, reading every expression. “And Viktor, do you understand why she would be upset because of what you did?”

“What I didn't do.” He replied immediately, darting his eyes to Black Canary without shifting the rest of his body. “I understand her initial reaction, yes. She believed that I had pushed the button and killed the creature… but it was revealed by Dr. Bingley that he was the one who fired the weapon. If Kass is still upset about something I never did, then I will never understand.” His voice remained level and cold.

Kassy’s calm wavered. "It isn't- it wasn't just about the squid. These things don't just happen - you were ready to snatch command the second you saw an opportunity! The squid's death was a result, not the start." She folded her arms, her jaw clenched.

Viktor released a sigh, being very close to letting a less-than-favorable remark leave his tongue. Instead, he chose to shoot Kassandra a glare. “I have my own theory. That Kass is only upset because, unlike the others, I never stopped seeing her for what she truly is.”

“Stop. We're not here for theories, Viktor.” Black Canary raised her voice slightly.

"No, I want to hear this." Kassandra fixed Viktor with a stare, chin raised in challenge. "Stop circling what you really want and strike." Her words were clipped, but her voice had taken on an even tone that would be eerily familiar to Viktor. He balled his hands and clenched his jaw but he wouldn't be a coward about this.

"Say it."

And so he accepted her challenge, his emerald eyes on her once again. There was a slight furrow of his brow but he retained his level tone.

“I will. Kassandra, you're a liar. A deceiver. You said I caused confusion amongst the team, but what do you think you did that day?” He raised an eyebrow matter-of-factly.

Kassandra's reaction was… odd. Instead of becoming upset, or even seeming insulted, she just smiled. She actually seemed to relax somewhat.

"Okay! Now we're getting somewhere. Still a bit of a guppy bite, but whatever." She looked back and forth between Black Canary and Viktor.

"I am a liar. It's true." The smile was less off-putting, and wearier as she looked at Black Canary. "I know you call it a symptom of my condition."The expression faded. "Look at it from the team's angle. I have not been truthful to them from the start. However-"

Her gaze went back to Viktor. "I have apologized. I am making amends. I don't expect immediate forgiveness, but… you act like I cut you on purpose. Why? You don't even like me. You don't like any of us, and you never have." A biting bitterness snuck into her tone. The barely masked emotion sounded like it belonged to a war veteran, chewed up by battle and spat out again. It didn't sound like a 17-year-old girl. "So what's the problem? Just keep acting like you're mister perfect, and move on."

Another sigh escaped him as his almost dull expression displayed a hint of frustration.

“Because I can't. I can't move on.” Viktor averted his gaze from Kassandra. She was the source of some of his recent nightly anguish. “How can I forgive someone who haunts me? Who makes the hairs on my neck stand when I think of them? I tried to trust you… I tried to keep you from hurting anyone else when you snapped. All it got me was time in the infirmary and nightmares every night. But even then, I don't hate you, Kass.”

"Seven seas, you are such a-"Her lips closed over the last word as her hands gripped the arms of the seat. Kassy was trembling subtly, but her voice didn't get any louder. Instead of volume, it was as if each word was a sharp fish bone, choked up and spat from her lips.

"Seriously? If you really trusted me, you would have listened to what I asked of you. But nooo! Even though you'd never been in the situation or the environment, you knew better. And the only thing you did in Atlantis is try to hurt me. Just like the squid, anything that isn't doing what you want is an enemy to be defeated."

“False!” It was rare for him to snap back in anger like this, but after what happened to Alisa, his emotions flew more loosely. “Anything that is a threat to my team is to be eliminated. By any means necessary. If the rest of you thought that way, Alisa might still be here. Instead, you allow for situations to unfold. Why? Just end it. Swiftly! What difference did that creature's life make considering our mission? It was simply an obstacle. Don't blame me for someone agreeing with my methods. I didn't pull the trigger, even though I wished for it.”

"Because, you id-" She snapped her teeth over the comment just in time, taking a breath.

"Because it was a protected species under Atlantean law, and unauthorized hunting is illegal. Don't you get it? Every action has ripples, every 'obstacle' has depths." She stared at him, eyes unreadable. "Did those boys in Arizona deserve to die for their actions? They were a threat to the team. What about-" There was the tiniest hitch in her voice before she pushed through.

"What about me? I threatened everyone with my lack of control. Did you want to kill me, too?"

Viktor's eyes narrowed at the question momentarily before subtly shaking his head.

“.....That's not the same.” He turned away from Kassandra as if the topic was dropped with simply that statement before a voice cut through the conversation.

“Why's that?” Viktor glanced at Black Canary, feeling like a critter that had realized they were caught in a spider's web. She had been strategically quiet, so her input caught him off guard.

“Because the boys were the objective. Their condition was the problem. So, we chose to neutralize them.” Viktor shrugged not feeling he was wrong in his thinking. And so he continued, now with his focus on Kassandra as he addressed her. “Same thing I thought I could accomplish with you. The squid called for something else. I watched how you handled it. Sloppy and ineffective. Daph was dehydrated, Aleen'a had already used her reserve power source, and Kila's status was questionable. That's half the team you risked for your endangered friend. You made the right call… but with the wrong people. You were using a butter knife on steak and Dr. Bingley had the illegally purchased machete. He may have been wrong, but he damn sure was effective.”

Kassy listened to Viktor, her face set. Some of the anger had faded from her expression, but her body was telling a different story entirely. She was turned away from Viktor. Her broad body was hunched, almost curled inward. The tremor had increased as if she were freezing cold. She simply let him speak.

“I don't like him either, but his actions at that moment aided us.” He didn't falter from his position in the matter. There was a brief silence in the confines of the jet before Black Canary cleared her throat.

“So the problem is a disagreement in how a situation was handled and some issues concerning trust… For the first issue, why not just agree to disagree? The second can be mended. Problem solved, right?” Her eyes were focused on Kassandra.

Kassandra looked right back at Black Canary. It was disrespectful not to look a superior in the eyes in Atlantis. She'd learned young how to aim a firm gaze with nothing behind it. Typical - one glance at the surface and people thought they knew everything.

It hurt to include Black Canary in that group.

Her lips moved to lie. To give up, and say 'sure' as if Atlantis hadn't been a one-time incident. As if everything had been an accident instead of an endless line of cuts that Viktor had just happened to be the last of.

She couldn’t speak. Why? She'd done it a million times. Say what they wanted to hear, play the game they wanted, because it didn't matter. Nothing would change, Atlantis or here…

“Or are you going to tell me what you think I want to hear? Kassy…”

Kassy’s whole body tensed, the fear becoming obvious. She'd been caught, and pain would soon follow. Perhaps no one struck her directly anymore. But being treated like she wasn’t even a person by Dr. Bingley and then the rest of Atlantis, when all she'd done was speak her mind? That invisible wound was still bleeding.

Black Canary's expression softened. She didn't want to risk causing Kassandra to shut down. “That's not why I wanted you two here. We're not here to check a block or to say that everything is fine. It's okay if it's not.”

“You've demonstrated courage in many other areas. Don't betray that capability.” Viktor chimed though it was oddly supportive.

"..." Kassy looked up at Viktor once more. But instead of a glare from the monster she assumed everyone saw - there was just a girl's gaze, full of confusion and deep tiredness that reached beyond her age. "I don't understand."

“You're not a fool either. Don't pretend to be now… We all have our internal battles. You will never win them if you back down and overlook them.” Unlike Black Canary, there was no mercy in Viktor's tone or his body language. A young man who lacked warmth in his actions and his words.

“Viktor, enough.” Black Canary ordered sternly. She didn't want him to keep pushing Kassandra so hard but Viktor respectfully disagreed with their senior.

“With all due respect, Black Canary. This is what she needs. Kass doesn't like me or my ways but she and I are not so different. A gentle approach is ineffective for the stubborn. She needs to quit this silly game.”

A noise, trapped between a laugh and a sob, slipped from between her lips. She almost seemed amused. "It's so annoying… that you're right. It is silly, perhaps from the surface." She propped her chin up in one hand, speaking freely. "I've been thinking, and the problem is not that I dislike you. It's that-" Subtly, she seemed to shrink inward. "You remind me of someone I hate. That has nothing to do with you at all! It's not your fault, and you can't fix it, so... it wasn’t worth mentioning."

Black Canary raised a brow at the odd development unfolding before her. Part of her wanted to delve into this but she refrained as she watched Viktor shift in his seat toward Kassandra. Viktor gave her his full attention now seeing she was beginning to open herself up.

“If it makes you feel better, I feel the same way about you. Maybe not so much now, but…” He trailed not wanting to get into it, his eyes averted for a fraction of a second. He'd keep his demons to himself. “I guess we both remind each other of people we hate.”

Kassy nodded in understanding, silently accepting Viktor's truth. "That was what finally broke me in Atlantis, y'know? When Bingley called me a monster, it wasn't his voice I heard. It was hers." The way she spat the last word, as if hate wasn't enough to describe the feeling, was surprising. "Everything was happening all over again. I was guilty before I had acted, prosecuted for being born… this." She started shaking, her gaze signaling her mind's rapid retreat from the present. "I had escaped, but only to a wider cage. I had to get out, again. So, I did exactly what everyone expected - became the monster. Made their thoughts real. It worked the last time - why not now?" Her eyes spilled over with tears. "I didn't know it would get so out of control."

“Then… Embrace it. It is you, is it not? You'll never grasp control over who you are if you let others do it for you. Take your strength and tame it. Don't cage it like everyone else has and don't let it run wild either. You, yourself, are your most valuable asset.” Viktor folded his arms across his chest as he shifted his body forward again. “Own it. And if you can't do it alone, you have us.”

Kassy subconsciously moved backward, shaking her head. "I know you mean what's coming out of your mouth. But - you saw what happened in Atlantis. They all turned on me the second they knew." She scrubbed her arm across her eyes. "For the sake of the team, and the safety of others, I will learn to control it completely." Silently, she pulled her arm back, eyes locked on the rune-engraved bracelet that held her power back. Kassy's shoulders lifted as she inhaled deeply.

And then everything seemed to warp, shimmering like asphalt in summer. At first, the eerie distortion only surrounded her, and then it spread, approaching Black Canary and Viktor like a flood. The two instinctively braced themselves as the environment around them changed, their attention on Kassandra. They were wary if only for a moment.

POP!

There was a loud crackling pop, as if the world's largest moth had met a bug zapper. The illusory distortion vanished instantly as Kassandra said something in Atlantean that only she could translate. But it sounded very much like a swear word regardless. "...ow." She slumped, rubbing her forehead. Despite being around her wrist, the sensation of her mental magic being caged was akin to cymbals crashing into both sides of her skull. It was like she'd been hit with a force just as strong as the magical energy she'd put in.

“Hmm… One day at a time, Kass. I'm sure you can accomplish it.” His words were the softest they'd been since being on the jet. They were words he often told Daphne during his daily visits.

“We're both sure as well as the rest of the team.” Black Canary almost wanted to excuse Viktor but she also knew his presence and words invoked something within Kassandra. She was sharing things she hadn't been privy to, even after their several sessions. “Kassy, you made mention of another time. Another time where you lost control as you had during the mission in Atlantis… What was it that happened?”

Kassy curled into herself, fear in her eyes, ready to retreat into her mind again. "It was earlier. Before I went to Tritonis and met the King. Where I grew up. My…" She trailed off, fear stealing her voice. And then, oddly enough, she looked up at Viktor for a moment. His eyes were focused, almost piercing. Her jaw tensed and she straightened up. Resolution had returned to her when she started fresh. "My aunt. She hated me. Maybe for what I was, maybe because she had to take care of me. Maybe she hated my mother instead, and hurt me for it." She took a steady breath before continuing.

"I will save you the sob story. Suffice to say, I was going to wait until I was an adult, and just leave. Find my own way. Apparently, that wasn’t enough. One night-" Shutting her eyes, she swallowed past a lump in her throat. "I don't remember what set her off, but she kept hitting me. Over and over. She wouldn't stop, no matter how much I begged. I knew that it would never stop unless - unless I made it stop."

Her voice took on a flat edge, colder and flatter with every word. "I used my power. I wanted her to experience every last drop of pain and fear she had forced on me. I made sure she did."

"...she was still unconscious by the time I had packed my things. I left and didn't look back."

Her words left the jet unsettlingly quiet for a time.

“Kassy…” Black Canary wished to find a way to console her after hearing her traumatic story, but Viktor cut in first.

“I might have done the same.” Viktor simply shrugged, attracting a glare from Black Canary.

“Viktor, that's not appropriate. Not now. Do you hear me?”

“Yes… but you would have also done the same, correct? It was self-defense in the only way she knew how. Heavy-handed, yes but how can we tell someone how to defend themselves at that moment? No one was there to teach her or assist her. Why do you think I've never held what she did to me against her? It was always the lie…” He hated the nightmares but in a twisted way, he thought they were deserved. He couldn't blame the flower because he got pricked by its thorns. Not when he was trying to pull it from its place.

“It wasn't her fault. Of course, anyone would agree with that, but she needs comfort, not someone telling her she was justified in her actions.” Black Canary was firm but scowling at the young man now. She was beginning to regret not dismissing him earlier. He on the other hand was more engaged in the conversation than ever as he leaned in toward the center and spoke freely.

“Why can't it be both? Why can't justification be her comfort? What she did wasn't out of the ordinary. Kass doesn't need a hug or soft words. She needs someone to not view her as a monster for what she's done. Perhaps that's why she's lied all this time, because she didn't believe anyone was ever going to give her this truth. You weren't going to give her this truth. She can tell us herself.”

Kassy’s voice cut through the argument. "She is still here and her ears still work." She looked downright exhausted. "Viktor's right. The time for comfort was when I was a child. Whatever remained of that little girl died the same moment I used my power on purpose. It's too late." She buried her trembling hands in her hair. "I am very good at packing my things very fast. If you would at least let me say goodbye to-" Her voice cracked, slipping into a soft defeated tone. "To Kila, I would appreciate that." Kassy stood swiftly, face to the ground as she gathered her gear.

“Kassy, you don't really intend on leaving, do you? No one wants to see you go. We can work through this.” Black Canary shifted back to concern when addressing Kassandra, shaking her head to show her she didn't want to think of departing.

"No, I don't want to leave. But do you really think they'll allow me to stay after I just admitted to attacking someone of my own free will?" Her arms wrapped around herself.

“Of course, they'll keep you.” His face contorted, almost disgusted by what Kassandra predicted might happen. “Do you really think their standards are that high, Kass? They recruited Daphne of all people. Talon, Kila, and myself are reformed but to what extent? We receive more therapy sessions post mission than active duty infantrymen.” He scoffed at her. “Quit assuming and be rational.”

“Viktor. That's enough. I will handle this. If we need your input again, we'll ask.” She gave him a nod before addressing Kassandra again. “What you shared is something I may have to inform a small circle of. As you can imagine, something like that can't go undocumented. If there's a decision to be made, it'll be made in deliberation. Until then, you are still a member of this team, Mirage.”

Kassy’s head jerked up at Viktor's tone, as she turned to stare at him. The derision she was expecting, but the target was all wrong. She wanted to speak but waited for Black Canary to say her piece.

"Yes ma'am. I understand." She turned to Viktor, momentarily silent. Then, she held her right fist to her chest and swept a bow. The team had seen this gesture before; she'd always described it as an Atlantean salute. A gesture of respect for one above her station. Or one worthy of respect.

"You've been very truthful this whole time. Thank you. I'm out of practice, so I might as well start now. I'm sorry for hurting you, Viktor. You were wearing my aunt's face at the time, but that doesn't excuse my actions. I don't expect your forgiveness, but I hope to earn it in time."

Viktor was about to reply but looked at Black Canary from the corners of his eyes for permission to speak. A simple nod from her was all he needed before his gaze met Kassandra again.

“Already accepted. All I want from you is your honesty. Not just to me but to the others and yourself.” He finally stood up from his seat. “Own who you are and own what you're capable of…” As Viktor spoke he looked down at her, his expression not dull, but serious. It almost appeared as if he really cared despite how cold he was being with the rest of his body language. His eyes remained on hers for a moment before darting toward Kassandra's dampening bracelet. “... perhaps when you finally get that thing off your wrist.”

She raised her arm, gaze narrowing at the offending device. "Yes. One day. And sooner than you think. Nothing makes me want to prove myself more than being challenged." For the first time since Atlantis, she smiled at him. Not a tooth-baring threat, but a soft little grin. "It's your turn, next time. When you're ready to tell me what nasty person I remind you of, I will listen."

“Sure. Next time.” Viktor nodded, cementing the idea presented. Though still very weak, Kassandra and Viktor's bond was mended.

Young Justice

---

Location: Justice League Watchtower

“How long will it take?” Black Canary's patience was waning concerning Alisa's status as she stood within a small chamber housing the young cybernetic heroine lying supine on something akin to an operating table. She was addressing Cyborg who nearly stood over Alisa as he calmly observed her resting body.

“I can't be certain… With some of the guesswork we had to resort to, anything can be expected.” His tone was steady as he simply briefed honestly, but he was quickly aware of how what he just said might sound to someone else. Black Canary furrowed her eyes ever so slightly. “My money's on her waking up sooner rather than later. Even without the original blueprints, we had the best the League could offer working on filling in the gaps. If anyone can get Alisa back on her feet, it's us,” he assured her.

---

One moment, Alisa was burning. The next, she opened her eyes to the glaring overhead light. It took her mind a moment to catch up- for a few seconds, her eyes flitted around in panic, her mouth wide open. She whimpered. Everything was wrong. She wanted to scream but couldn’t find her voice. Something’s wrong, this isn’t my body. It isn’t mine it isn’t mine it isn’t mine- She lifted her hand to the light, confused and afraid, and then met Cyborg’s eyes and dropped her hand. Her tongue felt lodged in her throat.

“... Hello,” she croaked. Speech felt weird. Movement felt weird. Everything was bright and loud and she was cold and the hospital gown was scratchy and what happened to her-

Breathe, Alisa. It was rhetorical, but she found the saying soothing. “What… where…” She couldn’t quite form the question, which terrified her.

“Hey hey hey, stay calm. You're just waking up and we-” Cyborg was cut off by Black Canary who placed a hand on his shoulder as she moved past him.

“We want to make sure you're alright, Alisa. It's a lot, I'm sure but we're safe here in the League Watchtower. Your friends are safe too.” She refrained from hitting Alisa with the fact that her body had been destroyed during the previous mission. She and Cyborg had to be careful with how they handled this. “How do you feel?”

Alisa’s eyes flicked from Cyborg to Black Canary. Moving awkwardly, she attempted to sit up on the table, supporting herself with her hands. She was at the Watchtower. She was in space?! Why wasn’t she at the cave? “I- I feel wrong,” she said. “What happened to me?” She remembered her limbs falling off and the fire and the agony, but little else.

“There's no point in beating around the bushes.” Cyborg spoke up. “You've been pieced back together after what happened during your last mission. I'm sure you can already identify a difference with your body. The lack of blueprints was replaced by some of the brightest minds in robotics engineering and data science within the League.”

“Can you stand?” By her tone Black Canary was legitimately asking and not ordering Alisa. She had faith in her colleagues but she needed more assurance.

Alisa’s lips parted in shock. She looked down at her exposed hands. It made sense, now. This wasn’t her body. It wasn’t even the same model, the same design. She wasn’t herself. A weird mix of shame and anger and confusion and gratitude flowed through her. She should be thankful, shouldn’t she? That she was alive? “I… you rebuilt me?” She left the other parts out, fearing she would sound ungrateful. It’s not like you couldn’t get the original, she thought. Had they even tried before they started mocking up a new model?

“I think so.” Alisa raised her eyes to Black Canary’s and flexed her feet. Cautiously, she swung her feet over the table and hopped off.

She immediately stumbled, her legs buckling. The shock of standing for the first time in months, let alone in a new body, led her to fall. But she righted herself, leaning against the table, and came to a stand. “See? Standing.” She smiled thinly with Black Canary and Cyborg answering with their own in return.

“Yes, though we should probably perform some sort of physical, right?” Black Canary glanced at Cyborg who folded his arms.

“Already prepped and ready for Cybergirl to give the new body a test run. Simple movements first to ease the gears, and then we'll escalate from there and see how you perform. Pass that to prove you're mission capable and you'll be good to go.”

“Physically. Alisa, I'd like to have a weekly sit-down with you about what happened. Nothing different than what's provided to each member of your team after a mission..”

“... Therapy?” Alisa looked a bit skeptical. “Are you sure that would work on me?”

]“Of course. Alisa, you have emotions and memories like anyone else,” Black Canary placed a hand on Alisa's. “I'm sure you have strong feelings about what happened… but save looking back at them for the two of us to work through. In the meantime, you should try to get used to your new body.”

“And crush this obstacle course!” Cyborg was a bit proud of what he put together.

“Physical Assessment.” Black Canary corrected.

“Great. I love obstacle courses,” Alisa deadpanned. “Can’t be as bad as when Daphne strangled someone… Unless I’m gonna die a second time.” Alisa says ((as she looks directly into the camera with a shrug)).

After Alisa conducted her physical and was given a reluctant yet optimistic thumbs up from the League, her team was informed of her return unbeknownst to her. Kila, Kassy, Viktor, and Zach gathered around the zeta tubes at their headquarters anticipating her return.

It had been a few hours, and Alisa was slowly starting to feel… not better, but more like herself. The new body was still strange, but she could do all the things she was meant to do. That was enough for Cyborg, and he had sent her and Black Canary on their merry way to take Alisa back home.

The team's de facto mother figure felt a pit in her stomach. It was there for the entire time Cyborg worked on Alisa’s recovery and it did not go away. This ordeal was sure to be traumatizing for the young heroine. She could not even begin to comprehend what thoughts and feelings were running through her right now. She glanced sideways at Alisa, but did not say anything yet. What words of comfort were appropriate in this situation? What could you even say….

The two of them were standing in front of the Zeta Tube now. Alisa had changed out of the hospital gown and into a blue long-sleeved shirt, jeans, and sneakers. They weren’t her clothes, but they fit fine.

Home. Alisa had been informed that it had been a whole month since she was destroyed. It was jarring to realize that she had missed nine months of the past year. It was even more jarring to realize it had been an entire year since she’d been home with her mom. It felt like only two months, but the seasons had returned to the place they’d been when she left. The world kept turning without her. Thinking about that brought her a strange melancholy, amid all the other strange emotions saturating her head. Shock. Anger. Relief. Sadness.

She was just glad that she got to go back to the cave and see her friends. How had they been without her?

Zach was sitting around scrolling through social media on his phone. He had been away from the base for some time. He had returned to be here for Alisa’s return? Zach didn’t know what the right word was. He wasn’t sure he should even be here in the first! It was his fault she had died in the first place, and they were never that close to begin with. It was his cousin who convinced him to be here for this,

Kassy paced barefoot around the Zeta tube area. She was quite anxious. With Daphne still not back from being a tree, she had been the only lady left on the team. It had been a long month. Losing two of her friends in one fell swoop hurt like nothing else. Zach had been absent, but his behavior made it clear that he was just as self absorbed as ever. Viktor was… Viktor. And she wanted to give Kila space. It was hard not to withdraw. She nibbled at one fingernail. The yellow polish needed a touch up. Alisa always did her off-hand for her… "What's taking so long…"

Viktor was just entering the area with his usual stoic gaze and neatly wrapped box tucked under his arm. He had been waiting for this day, and to him it had been a month too long. Missing someone like this was uncomfortable for him, and he didn't know how he'd feel once he saw her again.
The buzzing sound of one of the zeta tubes activating vibrated through the halls of the teleporter room. Black Canary along with a slightly bewildered Alisa stepped out of the light. Dinah softly squeezed Alisa’s shoulder, which was similar to pinching a piece of metal.

“They’ve been waiting a long time to see you.”

As their den mother she was moved to see how much they missed her. Even Zach who pretended not to care. Or Viktor who surprised her by bringing a gift, which she spotted immediately. It was endearing.

Alisa stared out at the rest of them, immediately overwhelmed. She had a stricken look on her face. “... Hi,” she said, finding herself unable to say much more. She bit her lip.

Kassy was the nearest. Her eyes went wide, and she would have rushed forward - if not for the look on Alisa's face. Still, she approached Dinah and Alisa. "Welcome back, my friend." A warm grin clashed with her teary orange eyes.

A smile reached Alisa’s lips- a real one. “It’s nice to be back,” she told Kassy, touched by her tears. She hadn’t thought her and Kassy were very close. “It only feels like a few hours since I last saw you, though.”

Hastily wiping her tears and not caring about the smear of mascara left behind, Kassy chuckled faintly. "It's been a long time. Far too long. I kept your room clean while you were away. I didn't organize anything. Just kept the dusty rabbits from the corners."

”Wamkelekile, Alisa. Back home where you belong.” Kila smiled as he called from his place near where Viktor was. He and Alisa were not that close, so he did not act that way. However, he did indeed feel pain when she had ‘passed’. He did do something, though, to remember. His hand had been wrapped over the place where he had cut it during the battle. Although by now it had long healed, he had kept it wrapped with an unsoiled bandage until she returned.

On it was written her name and the date of the mission that was completed. In the moment, the young lion had it rolled up in his hand and stepped closer to offer it to the android girl.

Alisa took the bandage, perplexed. When she turned it over in her hand, seeing her name and the date, the expression melted off her face. “Thank you,” she said, sounding choked up.

”I trust that you are feeling alright? Things have been difficult here, without you. ” Kila chuckled, though offhandedly nudging his head towards the taller young man with the box in hand.

“I’m alright,” Alisa said. “I just need to get used to the new body and everything, that’s all.”

Viktor felt a slight trembling throughout his body as he felt a level of excitement he hadn't been used to. His feet remained planted as he simply stared, struck with awe. Still, yet subtle trembling. I have to say something…

“Al-” Viktor was interrupted.

“Um… congratulations on not being dead, I guess…” Zach said awkwardly. What do you even say in a situation like this? “Ok look… I know we’re not exactly BFFs, and this is going to sound weird coming from me but… um… I’m sorry… If you hadn’t had to save my incompetent butt, we wouldn’t even be here right now.”

Alisa’s eyes glanced at Viktor first, not missing his attempt to speak up nor his shaking, but then flicked to Zach. “No,” she said. “It was all my fault. I should be apologizing for making all of you so upset. I should’ve been smart enough to not… well, run at a time reversal barrier. I failed. I’m sorry.”

Internally, Alisa believed it was true. She should’ve seen it, and in retrospect she had noticed things reverting behind Thiago. She had made all her friends so upset, and guilt was worming around inside her. She looked down. Thinking of the mission only made her think of her failures. She should’ve been better than that. Wasn’t she meant to be smart? Strong? Durable? Huggable?

The feeling of large arms wrapping around her form had followed the swift patter of rapid steps. Viktor had finally broken from his self-induced paralysis and closed the gap between the two. Eyes shut, he held Alisa tightly as he savored the moment.

“I missed you, Alisa.” He whispered. “And, I don't care about an apology. Having you back is more than exceptional. It's perfect.”

“I…” Alisa just stood in his arms for a moment, stunned. The touch felt different than it used to, but… good? Viktor… He never hugged people, and to do it in front of everyone else… Alisa made a small noise, a hitched almost-sob, before hugging him back and burying her face in the hug. She couldn’t believe he had missed her this much.

With his arms crossed in satisfaction, Kila smiled at the gesture. Finally, it seemed, the dam that held back a great river was given a vessel to flow through.

Kassy, who had retreated to give the others space, looked quite surprised. That sort of emotional display was something she hadn’t thought Viktor was willing to do at all - especially in front of all of them. She too, began to smile, flashing Kila a look that clearly read 'heh!'

“Alisa?” He broke brief silence as he wasn't sure if the feeling of Alisa sobbing against him was something he was supposed to let happen or cease. “I acquired something for you… I mean, I got you a welcome home gift.” He pulled slightly from the hug so her face wasn't buried into him and began to lead her toward the neatly wrapped box on the floor.

Alisa’s chest continued to hitch as Viktor led her towards the box. Her face was scrunched up into what looked like sadness while she made noises that were akin to sobbing. Yet, no tears fell. She couldn’t stop. Everything that had happened- to her, in the last half a day- seemed to bubble up all at once. How was she here? How had she missed all this time?

“Did you- you got me- a present?”

“A welcome home gift,” Viktor explained. “I made a thorough assessment of what you might like and… well, you should open it.” He broke away from her so she could do just that. All the while, he watched in anticipation as if awaiting the signs of a completed mission objective.

Tentatively, Alisa kneeled on the ground and neatly ripped open the wrapping paper. It was… a metal easel and paint. An art kit. She smiled, full. “Thank you,” she said, not just to Viktor, but to everyone. “I… I’m glad to be back.”

Cybergirl had returned.

Young Justice

“Heart of a Lion, Wrath of a Tiger”

Kila vs Viktor

It had been determined weeks ago, even without many words between them on the matter. Call it a vibe or the atmosphere when a deceiving calmness filled the room. The piercing eye contact that lasted a second too long. The subtle flexing of muscle. The challenge that was never really openly declared but birthed nevertheless. Had it started the first time they were in each other's presence? Perhaps when they saw what the other could do? Maybe it was the altercation on the submarine? The confrontation in the infirmary?

Whatever sparked the tension felt almost natural as if meant to happen. Like a swelling tide crashing against the hard mineral of a cliffside. Like two apex predators that had claimed the same territory. One found strength in connecting to those around him, while the other felt he possessed enough power within himself to believe he couldn't be challenged.

On the training grounds outside the headquarters, Viktor waited patiently. In the back of his mind wondering if this was the day he would settle things with Kila who he detected gracefully approaching.

“Today?” Viktor turned, wearing a minimalist version of his operational suit, lacking weapons and his helmet.

“I gave you time to somewhat recompose yourself. But your behavior can’t go unchecked when our superiors aren’t watching you.” The voice of the young lion prowled ahead of him. He seemed to have been similarly dressed in mission attire, as was a custom for training. However, the upper half of the Metamorph uniform hung tied around his hips, leaving his torso and arms exposed. That is, with the exception of Iwisa’s golden gauntlets at his arms, and the bandage around the cut on his right hand.

“You believe that you know better than everyone else about everything. Others have been given the reign to lead missions and, at every turn, you disrespect your team. You ignore the consequences that your actions were responsible for. You push the fault on the team; my team. Now you are faced with a problem where the blame belongs to you alone.”

Viktor's stoic expression shifted as his eyebrows furrowed slightly in response to his words.

“To me alone? You must still be suffering from a clouded memory. I carried… No, I dragged the team through that mission and everyone simply failed to keep up. Every single one of them falls short and makes the rest pay for their weakness! Zach cares nothing for our objectives, Daphne is comatose because she lacked control, and Kass has been handicapped because she proved she can't be trusted. And you… you're on the path to crippling yourself… to prove what?”

“No, I recall. You allowed Bingley to ignorantly break Atlantean law because you couldn’t follow a simple chain of command. Mirage was put under stress and instead of attempting to support her, you tried to punch her out cold. Daphne needed a guiding hand, not a slap in the face that “she should not be on the team”. Kila paced, slowly circling Viktor.

“Zatara needed someone to ground him to what a team represents. The one time he tried to bond with us, in Las Vegas— Yes, he lied, because he felt we would ignore him if he simply asked. And Alisa. When you were so busy dragging the team when you could have finally gotten your chance to lead: She perished, and you were nowhere to be found.” Kila stopped bluntly to look him in the eyes, fists opening and closing. Viktor took a deep controlled breath through the nose. The tension between them was steadily losing its subtlety.

“I am here because something has to change. You have been nothing but a threat to the team’s stability. So I am going to fight you, since that is all you know. The defeated one, leaves the team. Don’t pull your punches, because I won’t.”

“Enough with your terms. Just bring it.” Viktor took a basic fighting stance, offsetting his feet and raising his hands which remained slightly open.

Kila sighed, rolling his shoulders to relax them before slightly tipping his headbush to bow. In the instant he was straightening back up, he leaned back to dodge a punch from Viktor who had rapidly closed the distance. Taking the brief opening, Kila used both of his legs to crash into Viktor’s side. With the other young warrior much sturdier than he, Kila had used the attack more so as a launching point for a back handspring away. Viktor patted his side where he was struck.

I thought he was stronger…

Shuffling his legs in a pattern reminiscent of ginga, The Meta went to work on analyzing his opponent. A haymaker or two from Viktor would be enough to instantly end the conflict. Ground fighting would also be a no. It’d have to be a standing fight; wear him down, take key openings. Don’t telegraph it.

This time Kila moved in for the offensive but Viktor was prepared to match him. Like a flowing of limbs, Viktor witnessed his thrown punches redirected while suffering consecutive blows from Kila's simultaneous baguazhang strikes. With a grunt, Viktor pushed himself forward and closed the distance even further while throwing an elbow strike followed by a kick to target The Meta's side. Warier of the elbow strike, Kila ducked beneath, just barely locking his forearms to defend against the kick. The force behind the blow made his arms crash into his body and stagger him backward.

The rushing sensation through his system was familiar and, in that brief pocket of time, he remembered from where. Powerful, well-practiced moves, robotic in precision yet emotional in execution. It reminded Kila of his first sparring session with Tenzi Dinah. An experience that he was grateful for; enough so that he even smirked briefly. Viktor on the other hand grit his teeth, but not in frustration. It was a tinge of excitement.

The formula-enhanced teenager used his other arm to reach around Kila's neck so he could trap him in a guillotine choke. Kila had managed to barely get his left hand in to keep from being immediately cut off from oxygen. Pulling briefly against Viktor’s superior strength, his right arm came up to brace for a knee from his opponent. With the sudden splash of pain in his ribs, he took note of their interlocked positioning.

Kila tugged his body again, baiting the larger combatant into kicking again. When the second attack came, the young lion sacrificed another impact to the chest to throw a critically timed heel into the side of his opponent’s balancing knee. The quick shift compromised the hold just enough for Kila to escape by sliding his head against Viktor’s abdominal region. Although his chest was burning, he wasted no time. Using the split second that he had earned, The Meta turned into a 180 sidekick aimed for Viktor's chin. A quick hand raised in between only to be pinched between Viktor's chin and Kila's heel. Blocking the powerful kick wouldn't save Viktor from stumbling to the side as he tried to regain his footing. He had lost his balance with that second kick.

Planting his feet, Viktor regained a steady position. He was beginning to find Kila's fight style troublesome. There was not a breaking of skin or bone. There hadn't even been any attempt at making a decisive blow. This type of patience… I'll just break it. Viktor, not wanting to display any sign of pause, advanced, this time performing open-palm strikes.

Kila’s arms came up in a boxer-like guard to protect his head. Between the rapid strikes and his retreating position, he was putting the picture together. If this battle was reminiscent of his first team sparring session, then having to be on the receiving end of this barrage meant— A roundhouse kick crashed into his right shoulder, and a small bark of pain came from Kila as he tumbled away.

“You're kidding me! Stop holding back and face me!” Viktor nearly roared as he looked down at Kila. “Do you think I'm a fool? You act as if I haven't witnessed what you could do. You're faster, stronger… you're more than this.” Viktor circled him with a look of disdain. “Was this what happened in the ocean? The reason why you failed to do what was necessary to save that creature? Too bad.” Viktor finally stopped and shook his head. “This only proves my point. You can't even bring out your best when it counts. You're all weak links on the chain.”

Down to a knee, Kila held his dislocated arm while Viktor monologued. Yet another reference to his body’s hidden power. This mystery that plagued him, that others constantly seemed to complain that he didn’t have. All it reminded him of, was what Iwisa had told him, what he shared with Felix. ‘We cannot base our plans on what we don’t know.’ Viktor stood here and talked down to him like he was worthless. Like the team that he had worked with, was worthless. What he didn’t realize was that his powers, whatever they were, could never be his best. Superpowers could never be any of their best.

Exhaling, Kila snatched his shoulder back into position. Looking back up to the condescending super soldier, The Meta stretched the same injured arm out to him and wordlessly beckoned him onward. The gesture caused a slight twitch in his opponent's eye.

“Tch.” Viktor was prepared to finish this.

The young lion stood against the Rain, watching his approach. The latter was going for aggression, clearly frustrated by the delay and lack of power usage. However, Viktor wasn’t foolish, he had already been caught with flimsy footwork once and would adapt. Hand strikes were thrown, but Kila had taken to a strategy of dodging, just barely being missed. Ducking underneath one hook, Kila finally threw a blow of his own as Viktor’s arm was still moving. It was aimed for the attacking arm, but at the last second, his fingers formed a leopard fist. With his fingers precisely aimed, he targeted the pressure point at the middle of the bicep. Viktor felt sharp pain followed by numbness. He couldn't afford to address it now.

With one limb momentarily stunned, Kila moved on to the next. With Viktor now being self-conscious about his leg, Kila threw another leopard paw down to attempt a strike at his knee. The super soldier dodged this obvious target though, opting to go in for a grab. Catching him in his grip could lead to Viktor's victory… Yet, the miss was a setup, Kila used the momentum from the whiff and the lowered position to spin into a capoeira half-moon kick. With the attack sudden from a faux opening, there was little time to defend before the kick made contact with Viktor’s jugular.

The same pain… No, it was worse. An attack that could knock out or possibly even kill struck true. However, instead of crashing to the ground, he stumbled drunkenly as his eyes fought to roll back. Whether it was his enhanced conditioning or simply stubborn willingness to continue, Viktor remained up, but there was little he could do while stunned in this way.

It's not over… It's not… over… It's…

The young lion straightened up and watched his prey for a moment, he seemed prepared to lunge at him again but caught himself. Juuma… The name rang true in his memory, again at the situation he found himself in with Viktor. If only for a split second, Kila thought he saw his fallen brother’s face. His fighting stance dropped. Thankfully, Rain was strong or the damage could have been worse.

“I don’t want to hurt you anymore.” Kila called to his teammate, his expression becoming more somber, even as witnessed Viktor grit his teeth in frustration.

It's over. Viktor dropped to one knee and held himself up with one functioning arm.

“It's over.” He voiced it this time as stared down at Kila's feet. “What now then? I leave?” He strained to look Kila in the eyes.

”No…I had only introduced that idea to try giving you a reason to fight harder. Yet, instead of changing you, it changed me.” Kila lowered as well, sitting on his knees. ”I just want you to see reason before it is too late…”

“You're wrong, Kila… I can see it. Your perspective. As I felt my body betray me after I neglected it to your strikes…” Viktor struggled to plant the hand of his numb arm on the ground, narrowing his eyes as he continued to feel the sting of defeat. “Every part… Every link in the chain… weak or strong, is important.”

Those words prompted Kila to look at him more directly. Viktor wasn’t the sort to lie in situations like this, but the blunt admittance had taken Kila aback. Sighing with some relief, Kila slowly nodded. “I didn’t want to take this route at first. But, you seemed to need proof of some kind.” He explained, looking down at his wrapped hand as he clenched his fingers.

“Do you know why I did this?” The wrapped hand was aimed into Viktor's direct line of sight but he noticed him drop his gaze.

“I can make an educated guess… but enlighten me.” He winced slightly as he started to feel pain in his bicep again, the numbness slowly fading.

”Juuma.”

“Juuma? Who?”

”A man on the first squadron I was ever part of in Buredunia. He was a Rhinoceros. He was strong, charged into battle fearlessly and crushed many foes. We spent time together, as he was my field leader. I looked up to him in many ways. For a while, he was like family to me.” Kila’s eyes drifted away to the trees as though he saw something in them. His head slowly started to shake.

”But Juuma was hard-headed and short-sighted; like a Rhino. For him, the fighting did not end on the battlefield. In his mind, a fight was in everything; fights that always had to win. So much so, that he often defied command. What he didn’t understand was that the commander’s orders for our squadron came directly from King Lion himself. The King took Juuma’s actions as a challenge, and no challenge went unanswered.” Kila pointed to a singular vertical scar-line on his bicep, asymmetrical to the other horizontal scars on his arms.

“Juuma was the first friend that I lost, thus the first scar I received. What I know now, that I wish I had then, was that my friend died due to arrogance. If I had known better, I could have talked him down. So I owe it to him that I do not let that happen to another of my squadmates.” Kila explained as he stood up. A hand extended down to his brother in arms.

“That includes you, Viktor.”

“I don't if I'd compare myself to a rhino… but noted.”

Viktor reached up with his weak arm, the feeling in his hand returning just enough for him to grasp Kila's. The latter felt a tug of pain as one hurt arm lifted the other, but instilled culture kept him from wincing. Instead, Vik’s comment received an exhaled chuckle…or perhaps a scoff in response.

“Hmph…Do you understand what happened during combat moments ago? What I have learned?”

“That you can defeat me by targeting my pressure points,” he answered genuinely as he stood up and rolled his neck.

“Any truly skilled warrior could guess that. I am talking about something of more substance. By your tactics, I can tell the way that you were trained. You were taught some martial techniques, making you a fearsome fighter, but you are not a martial artist.” Viktor raised an eyebrow as Kila pointed to one of Iwisa’s gauntlets. “My teacher explained to me that the word ‘artist’ is often overlooked, but that it’s the most important to instill during training. It is a state of mind which allows you to think outside of the box, no matter what situation you face in life…I can help you to learn, if you want.”

“Artist hmm… I think… I think I'd like that. That and a rematch. No stakes, just a spar among peers.” This time, his statement was met with an actual chuckle in response.

”In time. For now, there is someone I would like to check up on.”

In a pride of lions, brothers fight. Yet no matter how often, it is almost never to the death. A new peace surfaces at the conclusion of the violence. No longer opposing forces pushing against each other, they flow in the same direction due to the mending of their bond. Through that bond, they are able to protect their home and family with twice the strength of either of them alone.

Young Justice

Location: Communications Complex, Team HQ
Interactions: The Team and the Dark Knight

---

Viktor sat quietly, appearing as calm and stoic as usual but images of Alisa intruded the forefront of Viktor's mind. Even as he sat before Batman, someone on his short list of people he highly respected. It spelled a recipe for disaster. Additionally, Viktor had plenty to answer for, especially after the breaching of the Kobra facility. Every decision made by him was scrutinized with the vision of Alisa in a pile of metal and burnt fabric.

Zach was the first to be criticized by Batman, with the young man's poor judgment and lack of maturity being highlighted. Viktor was nowhere near surprised at Zach's reaction, especially his lack of accountability. Ever since Vegas, Viktor kept his expectations extremely low, so the outburst followed by the departure didn't move him in the slightest.

What Viktor was more concerned about is what he and Kila had to answer to. There were holes in what happened, especially with this being the first time anyone really opened up about what occurred during the mission. Kila spoke of not being able to clearly recall what happened, which left his fight with the female Kobra agent partly a mystery. However, there were a few things Viktor was sure of, and he wouldn't let them go unmentioned. He stood up to speak.

“Batman. I will first say I agree with Kila about his failure. We must all ensure a tight grasp on our abilities. Having control is our responsibility, and it is something I also lacked during this mission.” Viktor glanced over at Kila before he continued. “But if we're discussing the engagement of the Kobra agent and the existence of the chemical. It was mentioned in our briefing of the mission, yes, but we were not made aware of how this chemical was administered, its susceptibility, and how available it was to the enemy. We took the risk of facing off against the Kobra agent, yes, but it was a risk we could not quantify with the information provided. We needed to take action. In hindsight of knowing of the three factors, I would have tasked… I would have tasked Cybergirl with apprehending the agent. Additionally, I assess that Kila was not temporarily taken down by the agent's ability to administer the chemical based on my own symptoms when facing her. Respectfully speaking, I learned more about the agent's abilities in fighting her than the pre-mission brief afforded us. The chemical is administered through a bite from the Kobra agent, possibly using her saliva as a vector. Males appear to be the most susceptible but there is no evidence to prove whether or not males are simply the agent's preferred target. It also appears to have varying results depending on the target. I was affected but not with the same potency as the other teens. There were too many unknowns to weigh the risk of exposure to the chemical over the swift elimination of the immediate threat.” Viktor remained standing as he was sure there was more Batman wanted to address.